NationStates Jolt Archive

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/Oli55/WCoH6logo-small.png

Welcome to the 6th World Cup of Hockey in Septentrionia. Your nation and 19 other ones will fight (maybe even literally, lol) to win the prized World Cup of Hockey.

The following is the rankings when entering WCoH6. They've been created using the same formula used in the original WCoHs. Here's the rankings:


Nation Points
------------------------------
Elves Security Forces 6.192
Qazox 6.165
Kelssek 5.744
Plutoni 5.517
Quakmybush 4.934
Lovisa 4.157
Prux 2.932
Taeshan 2.767
Candelaria And Marquez 1.414
Green Wombat 1.414
Jeruselem 0
Septentrionia 0
Newmanistan 0
Kose and The Turkomans 0
Pablicosta 0
United Hetzel 0
Steel Butterfly 0
Kolanderaz 0
Gwaine 0
kenavt 0

Teams will be seeded according to their rank. You'll see that half of the teams have no rank: the seed doesn't matter, it's only there to create groups, really.

EDIT: click on the nation's name to see their roster

Pot 1:
Elves Security Forces (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13660746&postcount=12)
Qazox (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13658611&postcount=2)
Kelssek (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13663577&postcount=24)
Plutoni

Pot 2:
Quakmybush
Lovisa (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13662879&postcount=21)
Prux (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13658622&postcount=3)
Taeshan (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13659816&postcount=9)

Pot 3:
Candelaria And Marquez (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13662799&postcount=19)
Green Wombat (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13659551&postcount=8)
Jeruselem
Septentrionia (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13665345&postcount=30)

Pot 4:
Newmanistan (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13661123&postcount=16)
Kose and The Turkomans
Pablicosta (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13659244&postcount=6)
United Hetzel

Pot 5:
Steel Butterfly (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13659138&postcount=5)
Kolanderaz (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13665260&postcount=29)
Gwaine (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13659956&postcount=10)
kenavt (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13663471&postcount=23)

Groups and other informations about the WCoH: Post 11 in this thread (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13660702&postcount=11)

You are invited to post your rosters and your RPs in this thread. For other informations, questions, etc, please ask your questions in the Sign-ups thread (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=554313) please. Also, please note that a schedule will be posted after the group draw

EDIT: I forgot that a map of Septentrionia might be useful: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/Oli55/Map-4.png

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and joining me tonight are Patrick Campbell and Norris Smythe, as we find out the roster for the Pheonix' attempt at re-gaining the World Cup of Hockey. As many of you know, Qazox put forth a decent bid to host these games, but lost in the voting to Septentrionia. But the QIHF (Qazox International Hockey Federation) has decided to place a very early bid for the 7th World Cup of Hockey, and during our broadcasts, the QIHF has bought air-time to highlight the new arenas that hopefully will be used to host this tourney. But that's for the future. Patrick, when you look at this roster, what jumps out at you the most?"

Campbell:
"Well Adam, there are many personnel losses for the Pheonix since the last Cup, where they where knocked out in the quarters to Kelssek, the hosts of the last 2 WCoH's. The main losses are the duo of Theodore Borchers and Theodore Cowling, who both have retired. Also Miguel Englert and Oscar Papenfuss, the top two goalies are no longer playing either. In all only 7 players have any WCoH experience, but thanks to the QHL, there are more experienced players than ever and almost an All-Star team of QHL players will be participating in this Cup. Overall, I like Qazox' chances to become a 2-time winner."

Smythe:
"Patrick, you are so wrong. Though the losses of the Theodores will be felt, the key loss for this team is the move from Defense to Head Coach by Oscar Maresca. Granted he's been with the team for a while and even lead Pika City to the QHL title this year, His defensive presence will be very sorely missed. The good news is Maresca's bringing in two of the top QHL defensemen, in Mark Fluey and Richard Hansen, both from the Qazox City Raiders, who've been the best defensive team the last couple of years. Those two guys average 6' 4" and 230 lbs. Truly those two men will are the cinder blocks of the defense for the Raiders, and will be for Qazox this Cup."

Adams:
"Well without further ado, the Starting Lines for the Pheonix,"

Players in BOLD have played in WCoH's 4&5

HEAD COACH: Oscar Maresca (Defenseman WCoH 4&5, Head Coach of Pika City)

FORWARDS (QHL team)
Line 1:
LW- Leon Guercio (Qazox City Raiders)
C- Jim Kirchner (Lorax City)
RW- John Hardin (Fromburg)

Line 2:
LW- Maicha Harven (Qazox City Eagles)
C- Brian Caulder (Joehio)
RW- Michael Zabov (Lorax City)

Line 3:
LW- John Barage (Gothika)
C- Jim Musial (Lake Porter City)
RW- Alvin Gutshall (Rockport)

Line 4:
LW- Peter Asikei (SaxerVilla)
C- Barry Freeman (Pika City)
RW- Leon Soltero (Rockport)

DEFENSEMEN (QHL Team)
Pairing 1
Mark Fluey (Qazox City Raiders)
Richard Hansen (Qazox City Raiders)

Pairing 2
Jerome Leventhal (Vogg City)
Darrell Blizzard (Pika City)

Pairing 3
Hank Fahey (Vogg City)
Derek Caperton (Las Vitas)

Pairing 4
Mikal Vladi (Pika City)
Kris Saliesta (Qazox City Eagles)

POWER PLAY LINES
PP1- Guercio Caulder Zabov
PP2- Harven Freeman Soltero
PP3- Asikei Kirchner Gutshall

PK1- Caulder Asikei
PK2- Harven Zabov
PK3- Guercio Soltero


GOALIES
Jaques Maaten (Qazox City Raiders) STARTER
Adam DiAntoni (Pika City)
James Huett (Fromburg)

Adams: "The group draw has yet to be announced, but we'll be live on QBC right after the draw for a complete group breakdown for the Pheonix' group and of the other groups as well. From HockeyCental on QBC, and for Patrick Campbell and Norris Smythe, I'm Patrick Adams, have a goodnight, Qazox."

If you RP before me you may:
CHOOSE MY GOALSCORERS: Yes
GODMODE GOALSCORERS: No
PENALIZE MY PLAYERS: Yes
GODMODE PENALTIES: No
INJURIES TO MY PLAYERS: Yes (Only minor ones please)
GODMODE INJURIES: No

(Qazox will play the most offensive style there is, if there is style modifiers)

THE PRUX Walruses make their first ever defense of the Cup.

Head Coaches/Walrus Trainers:
Bob Jurgens and Brian Hicks

LINEUPS: (starters in BOLD)
GOALIES:
Clidiotlump
Flugskull
Fuzzgelch
DEFENSEMEN:
Grorgumph
Punphblob
Jooflump
Flunkuck
Moobuzz
Blormelch
FORWARDS:
Mulfpunb
Blungbroob
Jongbum
Klook
Brorkpook
Hidiotuzz
Mormcheese
Thunphblunk
Borkbumble
Wunkgolt
Thuzzok
Wobmeat

RP wise: Do whatever you want


<In Prux>

Bob: Well that was a complete waste of time. Nobody bothered to come see the Walruses that won the Cup!

Brian: Dang sports snobs of Atlantic Oceania, they only give a shit about "football".

Bob: Well, this just came in the mail today, an invite to Septentrionia to defend our title.

Brian: Gawd... We just got back home!

Bob: I know, but we got to at least defend the title, I mean were not gonna let every one think it was a fluke, now are we?

Brian: Hell no. At least this time the team knows how to play, even though they still crack the ice.

Bob: Ain't our problem, that's the host's job there!

Brian: Any idea of who we play yet?

Bob: No, and i think it's rigged. Somehow, even as defending champions, we're only ranked 7th in the world, even though we beat 3 of the 6 teams listed ahead of us.

Brian: So? Just all the more reason to win it again!

(ooc: I think there is a problem with the ranks. tasehan and Candelaria And Marquez have fewer Points than I do, yet they are above me in rank??)

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/kelchek/media/kirkenescourier-new.png


Desjardins Cup or the World Cup?
Another club-country battle is in store as Kelssek prepares for sixth hockey World Cup

A disagreement that first reared its head in the lead-up to the Second Winter Olympics has cropped up again as the KHL clubs still in contention for the Desjardins Cup have warned that they will not release their players to play for the national team as it prepares for the sixth World Cup of Hockey set to be held in Septentrionia.

It's another conflict that could jeopardise Kelssek's chances of winning the Cup, a real possibility with the progress the team has shown in recent months.

Kirkenes Rangers general manager Peter Staunton is foremost in the fight on the clubs' side. "Releasing them during the regular season is one matter, but with the Desjardins Cup on the line that is entirely different."

"Better teams with better players who get that call-up will be put at a disadvantage and fans aren't paying playoff prices to watch second-string teams. The national team has no right to demand our players from us."

The national team is likely to be without one top-line talent. Sydney Crawford's Red Star Clayquot are one of the favorites for the title and are not likely to let the young star go to Septentrionia. In doubt too is the participation of CH Outineau's Severin Jeanne and Ben Connaught. The absence of Frédéric Arnal and Stephane Lefevre would also rob the national team of two of its most skilled blueliners.

The players themselves have little to say, bound by big-money contracts to their clubs even if they wanted to go it's unlikely their wishes would be acceded to. Many speak of divided loyalties with the domestic and international championships holding about equal emotional allure in the minds of Kelssekian hockey players.

Team Kelssek general manager Craig Gilbert can thank his lucky stars for the shock first-round elimination of the Neorvins Wolves, however, freeing up captain Neville Keanes, Colin Calderwood and Sven Stefanovic.

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/steel_butterfly.jpg

http://209.85.48.8/237/117/upload/p701851.jpg
The Orion Fenrirs
(My nation's real name is the Orion Star Empire)

HEAD COACH: Jack Kiril

FORWARDS

Line 1:
LW- Nikolai Winogradski
C- Alexei Zeitzev (C)
RW- Adrian Winters (A)

Line 2:
LW- Victor Titov
C- Shurik Sidorov
RW- Eric Stark*

Line 3:
LW- Gennady Alekseev
C- Chris Mitchell
RW- August Dietmar*

Line 4:
LW- Maksim Diemchuk
C- Leofric Krystyn*
RW- Vladislav Beketov

DEFENSEMEN
Pairing 1
James Julian (A)
Artem Vasiliev

Pairing 2
Cole Bistok
Damien Rasiak*

Pairing 4
Taras Talas
Yuri Timur

Pairing 3
Nick Lambert*
Marcel Mathis*

GOALIES
Arkady Nikitin
Danil Demidov
Audry Cole

*=Mid-Cup Addition

If you RP before me you may:
CHOOSE MY GOALSCORERS: Yes
GODMODE GOALSCORERS: No
PENALIZE MY PLAYERS: Yes
GODMODE PENALTIES: No
INJURIES TO MY PLAYERS: Yes (Only minor ones please)
GODMODE INJURIES: No

(The Orion Fenrir's will play the quickest style possible. Speed is the focus.)

Pablicosta

Head Coach
Braga Naval

Goal
Eric Lawrence
Davey Regenis

Defence
Randy Wacho
Ian Munn
Mark Sarich
Duke Manzano
Vincent Samuels

Forwards
Jeff Finnerty
Ryan Legue
Jason Phillips
Jonathon Hewitt
Ashely Cornish
Manny Yves
Warren Ulysses
Joe Tait
Marcellus Lyon

As seen on the Imperial news… (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=553477)

Orion Fenrirs Ready to Swallow International Competition
http://209.85.48.8/237/117/upload/p701789.jpg
By SYDNEY FRY
May 1

For the first time ever, the Orion Star Empire has agreed to participate in an international hockey league, known world wide as the World Cup of Hockey (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=555713). In this, the 6th installment of competition, the Empire has sent their national team, newly coined the Fenrirs, to Septentrionia to begin competition.

The Fenrir logo is a wolf with a ring in its mouth, giving the national animal of the Empire a fierce appearance that will hopefully reflect on its players. The colors of the national team are the colors of the Empire as well, black and silver being the primary colors, with blood red piping on the sleeves and seems.

http://209.85.48.8/237/117/upload/p701853.jpg http://209.85.48.8/237/117/upload/p701854.jpg
Fenrirs Home and Away Jerseys

Long-time coach and hockey advocate Jack Kiril was recently named coach of the international squad, free to add and remove players from his team at will. He quickly signed veteran and all-time scorer Alexei Zeitzev to the squad, immediately naming him captain. The assistants are phenom right wing Adrian Winters and lighting fast defender James Julian. Other notables include veteran Chris Mitchell, bruiser Cole Bistok, and rookie goalie Arkady Nikitin.

The Imperial team, at first glance ripe with depth, is highly talented but also highly inexperienced in international play. In their favor, the Fenrirs are grouped along side fellow newcomers Kolanderaz, Gwaine, and Kenavt. Hockey is neither the first nor second most popular sport of the Empire, and it is yet to be seen how Orion will fare in international play. A baseball powerhouse, the Empire has set the bar high for its hockey club. The results have yet to be seen.

Green Wombat comes back to the WC of Hockey with a new team name, but the same players plaus a couple more
(ooc: this is just for hockey, everything else is still wombats)

Team Name: Green wombat Wolves

ROSTER: (newbs in Italics)
Starters:
GOALIE: Paul Nutt
DEFENSE: Frank Ernst and Wesley Riddel
FORWARDS: Adam Eastley and Greg Bourne
CENTER: Alex Troche

Backups:
Jon Marinez- DEF
Theodore Sweat- DEF
Theodore Meltzer- DEF
Jerome Oshiro- FORW
Marcus Ryba- FORW
Jon Marcil- FORW
Oscar Unknow- Center
Tommy Steppe- Center
Jim Simien- Goalie
John DeAlva- Def
Pierre Brisbois- Def
Brian Seep- Forw
Craig MacTavish- Forw
John Wansrel- Cent.

If you RP before me you may:
CHOOSE MY GOALSCORERS: Yes
GODMODE GOALSCORERS: No
PENALIZE MY PLAYERS: Yes
GODMODE PENALTIES: No
INJURIES TO MY PLAYERS: No
GODMODE INJURIES: No

This is the roster for the Purple Knights of Taeshan Hockey Team. We will be all out defensive. We always were are purple Jerseys and for hockey we dont care if you dont like that. Get over it.

Forward Line 1
LW Ashton Appleby #5 20 Port Kosovoe Pride
C Nadin Baker #20 19 Greenville Slippers
RW Colby Ky #25 23 Fadron Fleet

Forward Line 2(checking Line)
LW Mack Martin #99 29 Ying Jing Jokers
C Eli Smith #21 25 Machrobat Ice Kings
RW Tiny Peters #45 23 Gieron Spiders

D Line 1
RD Slick Deringer #35
LD Oli Meron #29 23 Docktown Demonfrogs

D Line 2
RD Smitty Myers #1 20 Taeshan City Leggers
LD Jamie Myers #2 20 Taeshan City Leggers

Goalies
S Anyele Borreman #3 22 Laketwon Deep
B Trick Murphy #17 20 Atlantea Atoms

CHOOSE MY GOALSCORERS: Yes
GODMODE GOALSCORERS: No
PENALIZE MY PLAYERS: Yes
GODMODE PENALTIES: Yes
INJURIES TO MY PLAYERS: Yes (Only minor ones please)
GODMODE INJURIES: Yes

Gwaine to participate in World Cup of Hockey 6
By: Mike Barcann

A day after Gwaines U21 soccer team leaves to play in the Di Bradini Cup, Gwaines other national team leaves to compete in the World Cup Of Hockey. Now our team has played international games before, but nothing of this level. Head Coach Stephen Johnson (14-15 in international games) is to resume duties behind the bench, joining him will be a new Asst Head Coach is the form of legendary player Chris Modino who recorded his 600th career goal last season before retiring (2nd all-time).
Gwaine once again an underdog in this tournament is known around the area as a hard-hitting, forechecking team. Best known for their Penalty Kill, and incredible goalie in the form of Mark Biris (30-20-5 last season). They will be led by Captain Jeremy Roneke, with his assistants being former teammate and PennDel legend Kevin Primeau, coming out of a two year retirement, and young star Rich Michaels who was a rookie under Roneke four years ago on that Serpent's Cup winning team. Here is the rest of the roster:
C= Captain
A= Assistant

Head Coach: Stephen Johnson
Asst Head Coach: Chris Modino

Forwards (In order by Line)
Line 1 (Scoring Line):
LW #13 Sylvester Gagne (http://www.cbc.ca/gfx/topstory/sports/gagne_simon0422.jpg)
C #88 Erik Letcavalier (http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2007/writers/michael_farber/11/07/lindros/p1_110707_lindros_si.jpg)
A- RW #18 Rich Michaels (http://cache.viewimages.com/xc/72865541.jpg?v=1&c=ViewImages&k=2&d=17A4AD9FDB9CF193875DCB1DD8387ABB52F6CD07018D4C7FA40A659CEC4C8CB6)

Line 2 (Scoring Line):
#10 LW John LeClerc (http://www.flyershistory.com/images/players/leclair.jpg)
C #20 Richard Jeremy (RJ) Utlens (http://www.mikelynaugh.com/sabres-flyers/thumbnails/IMG_1036.jpg)
RW #19 Scotty Hart (http://philadelphia.comcastsportsnet.com/images/content/flyers/032308-hartnell.jpg)

Line 3 (Checking Line):
A-LW #25 Kevin Primeau (http://espn.go.com/media/nhl/2004/0517/photo/a_primeau_i.jpg)
C- C #97 Jeremy Roneke (http://www.ksl.com/emedia/apimage/NYOL58109042015.jpg)
RW #87 Donald Dashear (http://www.flyersfancentral.com/wp-content/uploads/DonaldBrashear.jpg)

Line 4 (Speed Line):
RW #15 Jhonny Lupul (http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/apmegasports/200712111930702084213-pf.hmedium.jpg)
C #17 Jack Carter (http://www.nancarrow-webdesk.com/warehouse/storage2/2008-w07/img.118153_t.jpg)
RW #24 Samuel Kaps (http://artfiles.art.com/images/-/Sami-Kapanen-Photograph-I13257656.jpeg)

Defense
Line 1:
D- #37 Erik Desjards (http://www.flyersfancentral.com/wp-content/uploads/EricDesjardins.jpg)
D- #2 Derrik Hatcher (http://media.philly.com/images/20071101_inq_flyr01-a.JPG)

Line 2:
D- #9 Scott Shaw (http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/011J6iU5Sb249/610x.jpg)
D- #44 Timo Kimmonen (http://stanleycupplayoffs2008.com/Assets/Photos/Timonen.jpg)

Line 3:
D-#5 Brenden Burn (http://www.nancarrow-webdesk.com/warehouse/storage2/2007-w43/img.46524_t.jpg)
D- #54 Joni Pitk (http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/42548000/jpg/_42548257_nhl_416.jpg)

Goalie:
G- #43 Mark Biris (http://media.philly.com/images/flyers.jpg)

Power Play 5 on 4/3:
LW- Scotty Hart
RW- RJ Utlen
C- Rich Michaels
D- Brenden Burn
D- Timo Kimmonen

Penalty Kill 5 on 4:
LW- Kevin Primeau
RW- Jereme Roneke
D- Erik Dejards
D- Derrick Hatch

5 on 3:
D- Erik Dejards
D- Derrick Hatch
C- Jereme Roeneke

The Sixth World Cup of Hockey's organising committee has drawn the groups. It's now time for us to unveil them:

Group A:
Qazox
Lovisa
Jeruselem
United Hertzel
Steel Butterfly

Group B:
Elves Security Forces
Prux
Green Wombat
Kose and the Turkomans
Kenavt

Group C:
Plutoni
Quakmybush
Candelaria and Marquez
Pablicosta
Gwaine

Group D:
Kelssek
Taeshan
Septentrionia
Newmanistan
Kolanderaz

Now, considering the schedule...

Septentrionia is not a fully developmented country yet, so to save on money, only two arenas will be used during this World Cup of Hockey:

Aréna 1093:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/Oli55/Arena1093.png
Informations:
- Location: Ourseville
- Home of: Club de Hockey 1093 d'Ourseville (Ourseville 1093), Septentrionian Nordikliga
- Capacity: 8,000 seats, 1,000 more in luxury boxes, 2,000 standing, so 11,000 total
Ice: National League regulations ice
Random informations: This building is quite new, having been built in 2000 (we are in 2009, Septentrionian time). On one end of the ice, there is no seats. Instead, it hosts the Zamboni garage and, on top of it, there's a bar with a balcony, which permits to watch the game stand-up while drinking a beer. Luxury boxes are located on sides of the ice only, which leaves one of the ends with nothing (the one on top of the bar) and another with a standing spot that can hold up to 2000 people. They are separated from the game by plexiglass, however, so they can't hear most of what's happening. But the arena has added a sound system there so that people can hear the game live while commented by Ourseville 1093's play-by-play guy. The arena was also built in order to have one very open side. So, on afternoon games, the light entering the arena is almost clear enough that there is only a need for minimal artificial lighting.
- Group to play in this arena: Group A-D


Centre Métropolitain
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/Oli55/CentreMetropolitainSeptentrionalis.png
- Location: Septentrionalis
- Home of: Union Sportive de Septentrionalis (US Septentrionalis), Septentrionian Nordikliga
- Capacity: 4,500 seats, 1,500 in luxury boxes, 700 standing for 6,700 people
- Ice: International regulations ice
Random information: Centre Métropolitain has been built in 1973. Originally, the arena did not have luxury boxes, so the capacity was at 5,200 people. In 2003, major renovations of the arena saw two giant screens being installed to the rafters of the arena, as well as luxury boxes being built. For the World Cup, a brand new lighting system has been installed for the cameras. For the years to come, Centre Métropolitain will be agreat hockey meetup place in Septentrionia.
Groups to play in this arena: Group B-C

Schedule:

As you might have understood, it means that only two games per day can be held at a single venue. So, we'll have to make this cup last longer than expected. It's now time to unveil the schedule for this WCoH:

Matchday 1-2 (odd numbers involve Group A-B, even numbers Group C-D)
Team 2 vs. Team 5
Team 3 vs. Team 4

Matchday 3-4
Team 3 vs. Team 1
Team 4 vs. Team 5

Matchday 5-6
Team 4 vs. Team 2
Team 5 vs. Team 1

Matchday 7-8
Team 5 vs. Team 3
Team 1 vs. Team 2

Matchday 9-10
Team 1 vs. Team 4
Team 2 vs. Team 3

Matchday 11
No games, but you can play a friendly if you want. Just tell me about these as soon as one gets arranged

Matchday 12-13 to 20-21
Same order, but invert home and away teams

I'm looking to start the competition on Saturday evening (EST). If you want any friendly simmed, I may do so, but after the competition starts, it will be too late and you'll have to wait until the halfway break.

For any other question, remark about these facts or OOC comment, you can still post in the sign-ups thread for the whole cup. I'll answer as I see posts

Calcutta Roster
Manager: Luaf Rochest

Scoring Line 1
LW: Maeglin Elendil
C: Amras Nénharma (C)
RW: Amras Ancalímon

Scoring Line 2
LW: Finwë Súrion
C: Fëanáro Culnámo
RW: Fingon Lúinwë

Checking Line 1
LW: Fëanáro Elensar
C: Angrod Liunë
RW: Elessar Celebrindal

Checking Line 2
LW: Firod Súinwë
C: Ereinion Elanessë
RW: Findecáno Calafalas

Defence Pair 1
LD: Amroth Oronar
RD: Amras Tasartir (A)

Defence Pair 2
LD: Maeglin Sîrfalas
RD: Finëa Inglorion (A)

Defence Pair 3
LD: Erestor Narmolanya
RD: Eleear Táralóm

Goalies
S: Arminas Carnesîr
R: Erestorai Alcarin

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and joining me tonight are Patrick Campbell and Norris Smythe, and the group draw came out just minutes ago and Qazox has a very favourable draw. The Pheonix are in group A along with Lovisa, currently ranked 6th in the world, along with 3 newcomers, Jeruselem, United Hertzel and Steel Butterfly. Norris, from the looks of it, Qazox should have little to no trouble advancing to the next round right?"

Smythe:
"Damn right, Adam. In fact if they even get a draw, I'll be shocked. The main challenge will be from Lovisa, a veteran team, but one that almost always underperformed. Of the three newcomers, I think Steel Butterfly will provide the closest game, but Qazox should be 10-0-0 when this is all done."

Campbell
"I mostly agree with you there, Norris, but to go 10-0-0 at the Cup is almost impossible. Injuries, a hot opposing goaltender, biased referees, anything could cause the team to lose or draw a match or two. But i agree with you that the Pheonix are the class of the group and should be into the knockouts with little trouble."

Wales:
"Ok gentlemen, your predicitions for Group A?"

Campbell
"Qazox goes 6-1-1,
Lovisa takes second at 4-1-3,
Jeruselem in third with a 3-2-3 mark,
Steel Butterfly 4th at 2-3-3 and
United Hertzel at 1-1-6 in last."

Smythe:
"Qazox will go 8-0-0.
Lovisa 2nd at 4-1-3
Steel Butterfly at 3-1-4 in third
Jeruselem at 3-0-5 and
United Hertzel at 1-0-7."

Adams:
"That takes care of Group A, Onto group B. Which seems to be the proverbial group of death with #1 ranked ESF, defending champions, Prux, Green wombat, making their 2nd consecutive appearance, and the newcomers Kose and the Turkomans and Kenavt. This seems to be the toughest group of the 4, right Patrick?

Campbell:
"Right Adam. The top three in this group all have a great chance to make the next round, but i think Prux' luck will run out and they will not make the knockouts."

Smythe:
"Oh, you could not be more wrong! Prux is the defending champs and they know how to win, even though the starting lineup weighs over 4 tons combined. Green wombat will not make it through, but they will make it close."

Wales:
"Ok gentlemen, your predicitions for Group B?"

Smythe:
"Prux takes the group with a 6-0-2 record,
then ESF at 5-1-2
Green wombat at 4-0-4
Kenavt at 2-2-4
then Kose and the Turkomans at 1-1-6."

Campbell:
"It'll be ESF at 6-1-1
green wombat at 4-3-1
Prux at 4-1-3
then Kose and the Turkomans at 2-0-6
and finally Kenavt at 1-1-6"

Wales:
"That covers the first two groups after this break, we'll get our predictions of groups C and D."

<To be continued>

GREEN WOMBATS WCoH Predictions:

BOLD- 1st round byes.
Italics- Playoffs


Group A:
Qazox
Jeruselem
Lovisa
Steel Butterfly
United Hertzel

Group B:
ESF
Green wombat
Prux
Kose and the Turkomans
Kenavt

Group C:
Plutoni
Candelaria and Marquez
Quakmybush
Gwaine
Pablicosta

Group D:
Kelssek
Septentrionia
Newmanistan
taeshan
Kolanderaz

Drake:
“Hello I’m William Drake and welcome to OSN Primetime©, Orion’s own Sports Network. Joining me today is my co-host John Stone, as well as special guest Sydney Fry, the sports reporter and former hockey star from the Orion Broadcast Company who is covering the Hockey World Cup.”

Stone:
“Yes, how are things in the “real news,” Syd?”

Fry:
“Couldn’t be better, John, and neither could these uniforms. Now we all know that the Empire’s always been image-conscious, but damn!”

Stone:
“Yes, but will Imperial citizens have anything to watch for other than fashion? Hockey’s following in Orion has been described as a niche.”

Fry:
“Which makes it the perfect candidate for international expansion. If the Fenrirs do well, hockey will be in the international headlines. The Orion people will learn to care.”

Drake:
“That being said, lets take a look at our match ups. High powered Qazox leads the group and is predicted internationally to take the first round bye.”

Stone:
“Lovisa is also a relative powerhouse, leaving only one spot open for three newcomers to try and claim.”

Fry:
“If we want to be honest with ourselves, we have to take out Jeruselem and United Hertzel at every occasion. It will be the only way to really get us into the playoffs, when anything can happen.”

Stone:
“I disagree. I think that’s setting our sights a bit too low. Qazox is notoriously full of themselves when it comes to this thing, and Lovisa is a notorious underachiever. I think we could finish a strong second, or even with luck, pull an underdog victory of the whole thing.”

Drake:
“You have to remember though, John, that Qazox’s confidence comes with good reason. Much like during baseball and gridiron football season when we boast and brag, when hockey rolls around Qazox is rarely matched.”

Fry:
“What you said about Lovisa, however, seems to be correct. While I do think that anyone can be beaten, and I cannot wait for the head to head match, I do feel that having a better end record with Qazox is a little bit unrealistic. However, beating out Lovisa for second is possibly well within our grasp.”

Drake:
“So what are you predictions then? Mine go like this:

Qazox
Lovisa
Steel Butterfly
Jeruselem
United Hertzel”

Stone:
“You don’t give us enough credit. Gotta set the bar high:

Steel Butterfly
Qazox
Jeruselem
Lovisa
United Hertzel”

Fry:
“I agree that the bar must be set, but I think you still have to be realistic:

Qazox
Steel Butterfly
Lovisa
Jeruselem
United Hertzel”

Drake:
“Time will tell who wins between the teams and who wins between the three of us. Don’t forget to check back in with us on Saturday for full coverage of the Orion Fenrirs. I’m William Drake,”

Stone:
“I’m John Stone,”

Together:
“And this is OSN Primetime©!”

Fry:
“Goodnight, Orion.”

Team Name: The Rockets

Playing Style: Hard nosed, aggressive checking team. Very physical, and to a point, “dirty”. Defensive minded.If a style modifier is used, we are a -3. We utilize the infamous “neutral zone trap”. Lines named in the bios are the lines the player generally sees action on, however the Rockets will mix and match people when appropriate.

If you RP first you can:
CHOOSE MY GOALSCORERS: Yes
GODMODE GOALSCORERS: Yes
PENALIZE MY PLAYERS: Yes
GODMODE PENALTIES: Yes, but no more then one “game misconduct” or an equivalent then you give yourself. (Ex. You give yourself none, only one for us. You give yourself four, you can give us five, but in doing this go along with the player’s bio. We have people more prone to these penalties. Penalize them.).
INJURIES TO MY PLAYERS: Yes, but only to the extend of saying so and so was injured. I will determine the severity.
GODMODE INJURIES: No

Head Coach: Robert Curtis
Club Team: Loudon Leopards
Age: 55
Bio: Curtis was a defensemen in his day, and a hard nosed physical one at that. He has maintained that philosophy now as the head coach of the Leopards, and is expected to the same with the Rockets.

Assistant: Steve Parrish
Club Team: South Tier Seagulls
Age: 52
Bio: The head coach of the Seagulls, it will be interesting to the domestic Newmanistan fan to see both of these coaching icons behind the bench at the same time. Generally assigned to the forwards.

Assistant: Shawn Raines
Age: 45
Club Team: Dover City Mountaineers
Bio: Raines is the head coach in Dover City, and will be assigned to the goalies, for the most part.


*** GOALIES ***

Name: Craig Sanders
Club Team: Dover City Mountaineers
Age: 30
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 192
Position: G
Number: 31
Lines: STARTING Goaltender
Bio: Sanders can best be described perhaps, as a “butterfly” goalkeeper, with an exceptionally strong glove, and outstanding vision. He plays with a very high level of self confidence and believes that he can stop anything, because he usually does. It is because of that confidence that he can make some very acrobatic saves. When he is scored on, it is usually a well earned goal, as he rarely gives up a softie. Sanders is also a very good puckhandler, and can be like a third defensemen at times, too.

Name: Marty Bronstein
Club Team: Hastings Crusaders
Age: 27
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 195
Position: G
Number: 30
Lines: BACKUP Goaltender
Bio: Bronstein is coming into his own, and if he ever had to be used, the Rockets will have no qualms about putting him in. Marty is of a similar style as Sanders is, in all aspects, so if he did have to get ice time, the defensemen won’t be confused have to learn the tendencies of their new goalie. One difference is that Marty is a little more aggressive with his stick in slashing forwards, but playing behind the physical defensemen of the national team, he shouldn’t have to do that much.

*** DEFENSEMEN ***

Name: Kevin Regan
Club Team: South Charlotte Condors
Age: 23
Height: 6' 6"
Weight: 233
Position: D
Number: 6
Lines: 1st D Pairing (LD), PP 1, PK 1
Bio: A mean son of a b*tch. He uses his size to his advantage, and loves to hit those small little speedy forwards that try to come into his area and send them down to the ice. Despite that, he is also smart, and doesn’t take penalties in the wrong situations. Even though he could win many fights, Regan doesn’t drop the gloves a whole lot as he is also a valuable defensemen, and can’t spend too much time in the box. Forwards trying to camp out in front of the net should be expecting to get moved out the way in a not so kind fashion by this man. Should get about 25-30 minutes of ice time per game.

Name: Tom Stewart
Club Team: Pocono City Capitals
Age: 29
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 193
Position: D
Number: 2
Lines: 1st D Pairing (RD), PP 1 (RD)
Bio: An offensive defensemen. His slapshot has been clocked at 104 MPH, and he is accurate with it. A power play quarterback, Stewart scored 17 goals with the man advantage last season. He is also a smooth passer with soft hands, making that first breakout pass from the defensive zone quite efficiently. He works very well with the bigger Regan. However, he doesn’t kill penalties that much. Should see 25-30 minutes per game.

Name: Todd McKinley
Club Team: Olympia Gladiators
Age: 24
Height: 6' 5"
Weight: 220
Position: D
Number: 33
Lines: 2nd D Pairing (LD), PP2, PK 1 (RD)
Bio: A lot like Regan, so when Kevin comes off, those skill forwards better not think they are about to have a bunch of room to skate and handle the puck. McKinley is a little more aggressive then Regan, so he’ll take more penalties, and he will drop the gloves when needed. Clears out traffic in front of the net very well. Todd should average around 15-20 minutes of ice time per game.

Name: Jake Trombley
Club Team: South Tier Seagulls
Age: 28
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 193
Position: D
Number: 4
Lines: 2nd D Pairing (RD), PP 2, PK 2 (RD)
Bio: Trombley is a speedy one, and when he is on the ice the tempo of the game really picks up, and he is also very good with his stick on the pokecheck as well as going down and blocking shots. He plays like he’s about 6'6". Despite his smaller size, he’s not afraid to rough it up, and if someone takes a liberty with him, his partner McKinley will take care of it. Averages around 15 minutes per game.

Name: Clint Greene
Club Team: Pocono City Capitals
Age: 26
Height: 6' 8"
Weight: 241
Position: D
Number: 68
Lines: 3rd D Pairing (LD), PK 2 (LD)
Bio: Don’t mess with Mr. Greene. This man is a brutal checker, and just really seems to enjoy watching the opponents fall to the ice. He also likes to drop the gloves and will give no mercy if the opposing player is much smaller then him. But he’s not just one dimensional with all that, he actually is also a very responsible defensive defensemen, who reads the play real well, as evidenced by the fact that he gets ice time on the penalty kill. He’ll see between 10-15 per game.

Name: Vladimir Rusmentov
Club Team: Fairfield City Admirals
Age: 33
Height: 5' 11"
Weight: 184
Position: D
Number: 3
Lines: 3rd D Pairing (RD)
Bio: A free skating defensemen with offensive tendencies, he generally stays away from the rough stuff, since he has Mr. Greene beside him. Rusmentov is another one of those puck movers, being able to hit the forwards in the neutral zone and letting them do their thing. Vladimir will also join the rush and has a deceptively hard shot. Averages around 10 minutes a game, as stamina is a bit of a problem for him.

Name: Brian Conroy
Club Team: Loudon Leopards
Age: 24
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 202
Position: D
Number: 5
Lines: Depth, used when the Rockets play 11 forwards/7 defensemen
Bio: Over the last couple years, Conroy has really emerged as a solid two-way defensemen. He doesn’t hit quite as hard as the likes of Regan, McKinley, or Greene, but he will leave his mark on the checking game. His shot has developed nicely as he has gotten much more accurate from the point. When he is used, he should also see some time on the second power play unit.

Name: Jason Conlin
Club Team: Loudon Leopards
Age: 23
Height: 5' 10"
Weight: 183
Position: D
Number: 8
Lines: Depth in case of injury
Bio: A puck moving offensive defensemen. Conlin’s small stature has made playing in the Empire tough for him, but he has adapted pretty well due to his good speed. He is a likeable player in the clubhouse, so rest assured that the big guys will back him should they need too.

Name: Christian Nadeau
Club Team: Putnam Lake Eagles
Age: 34
Height: 6' 4"
Weight: 227
Position: D
Number: 7
Lines: Depth; May be used if the Rockets want to play 7 defensemen and go with a highly physical lineup.
Bio: Another real nasty player. Nadeau is a punishing hitter, as evidenced by the fact that in the last two seasons, he has been suspended over 40 games total. He’s dirty and he likes to fight. But don’t go calling him a goon, because he is also a very solid defensemen and has a deceptive shot if you forget about him. Sometimes undisciplined to taking a bad ill-timed penalty, he will be a healthy scratch on most occasions.

Name: Mikko Viitalianen
Club Team: Thumbria Bay Sharks
Age: 30
Height: 5' 10"
Weight: 188
Position: D
Number: 34
Lines: Depth; will only see time in the event of a rash of injuries.
Bio: You can never carry too many defensemen on your roster, so it’s not expected that Viitalianen will see much, if any, ice time during the World Cup. But if so, he is a responsible, defense first type player. Not a punishing hitter, and opts to make the conservative play. But when he needs to make a hit, he will finish his check quite well. With above average stickhandling skills, he is tough to get off the puck. Could, if necessary, play on the wing.

*** FORWARDS ***

Name: Scott Meadows
Club Team: Southport Tigers
Age: 23
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 213
Position: C/LW
Number: 11
Lines: 1st Line C, PP 1, PK 2
Bio: A skillful skater, Meadows is able to create open ice for himself. His puckhandling abilities are top class, so it will be hard to get the puck off of his stick. Once in open space, he has a series of shifty moves he can put on a goalie, and is just as effective with the backhand as he is with the forehand. Shot power is average, but his accuracy is outstanding.

Name: Alex Marchese
Club Team: Southport Tigers
Age: 23
Height: 6' 1"
Weight: 204
Position: LW/C/RW
Number: 17
Lines: 1st Line LW, PP 1, PK 2
Bio: Marchese has very good vision, and as a teammate of Meadows’ at the club level, look for these two to be able to have immediate chemistry with one another. He is a versatile player as he can play all three forward positions, but his natural spot is indeed the left wing. Like Meadows, he is a very good skater, and shoots with pinpoint accuracy.

Name: Francois Loiselle
Club Team: Tundra Falls Mariners
Age: 32
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 228
Position: RW/LW
Number: 15
Lines: 1st Line RW, PP 1
Bio: Loiselle is your prototypical power forward. He does his best work in front of the net getting what is commonly referred to as the garbage goal. With Meadows and Marchese creating opportunities in open ice, look for Loiselle to be able to finish off plays by tipping in rebounds, or scoring off a deflection. He is physical, and will take on any defensemen, and will at times (not too much, but sometimes), drop the gloves.

Name: Kevin Reschke
Club Team: Springfield Thoroughbreds
Age: 24
Height: 6' 0"
Weight: 192
Position: C
Number: 16
Lines: 2nd Line C, PP 2
Bio: Reschke was an outstanding find by the Centralia Cougars in the 6th round of the draft seven seasons ago. He wasn’t supposed to be much, but with hard work and determination he has become one of the best players in the entire Empire. He is a playmaker, an outstanding passer who will probably end up with twice as many assists as he has goals. Kevin also doesn’t mind the physical aspect, and despite his frame, he never backs down from anyone. Reschke is also a faceoff whiz, and will take the important draw in crunch time.

Name: Larry Davidson
Club Team: Dover City Mountaineers
Age: 25
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 209
Position: LW
Number: 18
Lines: 2nd Line LW, PP 2
Bio: Davidson is a sniper. His powerful slapshot once registered at 103 MPH, and he is deadly with it, able to hit his target from anywhere inside the attacking zone. Working with the playmaker Reschke, do you think the intention here will be for Reschke to set up Davidson with plenty of chances for one-timers? Of course. Now, try to stop it. Teams have tried to do that for years with Davidson and have had no luck. Larry is also very intelligent in the defensive zone, and is yet another player who doesn’t back down from the physicality of the game.

Name: Jean-Pierre Desjardins
Club Team: North Charlotte Wildcats
Age: 29
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 216
Position: RW/C
Number: 26
Lines: 2nd Line RW, PP 2
Bio: Desjardins gives you a little bit of everything. He knows how to find the back of the net, and can do so from right on top of the crease, or from the blue line with his slapper. He is also physical, to an extent. He’s not the Rockets first choice to get involved in fights, but he can hold his own when he needs to.

Name: Jordan Williams
Club Team: Springfield Thoroughbreds
Age: 28
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 224
Position: C/LW
Number: 25
Lines: 3rd line C, PK 1
Bio: Williams is defensive forward, probably more of a third defensemen then a prototypical center, and a very smart player overall. He could be captain material himself. He is very strong off the puck, and thus handles the opposing forwards pretty well when they come in his area. It shouldn’t be any secret then, that he plays on the teams primary penalty kill unit.

Name: Dan Stover
Club Team: Putnam Lake Eagles
Age: 26
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 228
Position: LW/C
Number: 20
Lines: 3rd Line LW
Bio: Another defensive forward. He’s one of those guys that you don’t notice much when he’s out there, and his name won’t appear on the scoresheet all that much, that every team wants to have in their lineup, and would miss without him. He is an outstanding on the forecheck.

Name: Shawn Evans
Club Team: Loudon Leopards
Age: 25
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 204
Position: RW/LW/C
Number: 36
Lines: 3rd line RW
Bio: An agitator. He is out there to get under the skin of the opponent and just simply rattle them to throw them off their game. This done generally by slashes of the opponent when the referee isn’t looking, “accidentally” colliding with the opposing goalie, or throwing an extra elbow to the opponent in a battle along the boards. He is up to date on all the “dirt” the opponents have going on in their personal lives, and will constantly taunt them about it during the game. To further tick off the opponent when they want to drop the gloves with him, he never does, skating away, and letting another player take care of that. Him being on the team is interesting in that he does a lot of this to the same players he is now teammates with at the club level. Being he is so good at it, he generally has the respect of everyone in the Empire.

Name: Rick Draper
Club Team: Tundra Falls Mariners
Age: 33
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 238
Position: LW/RW
Number: 12
Lines: 4th Line LW
Bio: A defensive forward, and will be used with confidence on one of the higher lines in the event of injuries. He can score the odd goal, but is generally on the team to provide even more of a physical presence, and another option for dropping the gloves.

Name: Jean-Sebastian Lapointe
Club Team: Rushville Monarchs
Age: 32
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 211
Position: C
Number: 14
Lines: 4th Line C
Bio: Will be in and out of the lineup. When the Rockets elect to go with 7 defensemen and 11 forwards, Lapointe is the one that gets dropped. Playing between two very physical players, Lapointe is bit of changeup in that he is an outstanding skater, especially for a man of his size. Provides energy to the 4th line, and sometimes, sets one of the big guys up for a garbage goal.

Name: Shawn Bennett
Club Team: Daytopia Racers
Age: 28
Height: 6' 7"
Weight: 256
Position: RW/LW
Number: 24
Lines: 4th line RW.
Bio: Bennett has one purpose on the team. Look at his height/weight and guess what that is. He is an outstanding fighter. In fact, his career started as a pro boxer, but once he realized there was more money in hockey, he used the fact that his parents taught him to skate as a kid to his advantage and decided to become a hockey player instead.

Name: Pierre Chalifoux
Club Team: Southport Tigers
Age: 26
Height: 6' 1"
Weight: 196
Position: LW/RW/C
Number: 21
Lines: Depth
Bio: Chalifoux is a good all-around player, and will be the first option off the bench in the event of injuries or in the likely scenario that a Newmanistanian will draw a suspension somewhere, given that he can play all three forward positions. His backhand is especially accurate.

Name: Todd Henry
Club Team: Pocono City Capitals
Age: 23
Height: 5' 8"
Weight: 177
Position: C
Number: 23
Lines: Depth
Bio: A speed burner and one of those razzle dazzle finesse type players. He has had himself a decent career in the Empire when considering the physical nature of Newmanistanian hockey. He’s coming along nicely, but is still a little raw, and thus, goes through some inconsistency spells, and is why he’ll be a scratch on most nights. However, don’t count him out getting ice time if the coaches sense an offensive minded game coming up where he could flourish.

Name: Steve Picotte
Club Team: Brighton Bulldogs
Age: 28
Height: 6' 2"
Weight: 220
Position: RW/C
Number: 19
Lines: Depth
Bio: A power forward, and will drop the gloves when necessary. Inconsistency is what keeps him out of the regular lineup.

Name: Evan Gates
Club Team: Fairfield City Admirals
Age: 19
Height: 6' 0"
Weight: 201
Position: C/RW
Number: 9
Lines: Depth
Bio: This kid is supposed to be something real special, and his inclusion on the team was so that the could get a taste of global hockey action. He probably won’t play, but if he does, look out because he is a flashy forward with vision and awareness that is well beyond his years.

Name: Daniel Nielsson
Club Team: South Charlotte Condors
Age: 30
Height: 6' 5"
Weight: 222
Position: RW/LW/C
Number: 27
Lines: Depth
Bio: Yep, the Rockets will have another enforcer on the bench. He is pure goon.

THE ROCKET REPORT

DROP THE PUCK ON WORLDWIDE HOCKEY

Ourseville, Septentrionia- Empress Jessica’s vision of the Empire expanding its influence on the worldwide sporting map has officially hit a new level. First came the world’s football, then the “other” football being hosted in our own nation. Stock car and open wheel racing followed, which now leaves us to this, hockey! Newmanistan has entered the sixth version of the World Cup of Hockey, which is being held in Septentrionia. The nation resides in the region of Atlantian Oceania, which is an area of the world that is fast becoming more known to Newmanistanians, being that this is also where Starblaydia is located.

Newmanistan released its roster yesterday, and by now I’m sure most of you have had a chance to look at it. By the names that were included, it is very obvious that Newmanistan plans on playing a very physical style of play, and a system of being defensively responsible. Robert Curtis, who was named to coach the Rockets in this World Cup says that is precisely what you can expect to see out of Newmanistan, “A team that is defensively responsible and patient is the kind of team that wins championships on the ice. This will be an intense competition in one of the most grueling sports in the world, and because of that our players will be willing to pay the price. Yes, we will be a tight checking team, and very physical to wear our opponents down. We’re bring size and experience to Septentrionia, and guys who are smart at the same time. I have no doubt that we will represent Newmanistan well and be a contender in the World Cup. It might be our first appearance here, but there is no one here that scares us. Our counterparts won the Di Bradini Cup in their first appearance, so we can do the same.” And what did Curtis think about being named the head coach of the team? “It’s an honor,” he replied, “I thought I would have a shot at being named when it was announced that we were going to compete in the World Cup, and I let them know I was interested in the position. But once I got that phone call I was real honored.” Curtis did say that there was one thing about the World Cup format that he did not like. The shootout. Shootouts happen in other countries, but do not happen in Newmanistanian hockey. Instead in Newmanistan, the teams play OT until there is a winner. “The shootout deal disappoints me,” he replied, “Deciding a hockey game in a shootout is like deciding a baseball game with a home run derby.”

The groups were announced, and the Rockets have been placed in Group D, where they will be joined by Kelssek, Taeshan, Kolanderaz, and the hosts Septentrionia. Interestingly, this is the first time that the Rockets have been drawn into the same region as the host nation in one of these world competitions. Newmanistan has some history with Kelssek, as they were in the same qualifying group for World Cup 40, with the Rockets having won both matches; as well as with Septentrionia, as the two sides played to a draw in Cup of Harmony 32. They don’t, yet, have history with Taeshan, but Taeshan will be heading to Newmanistan in all likelihood for the knockout stages of World Bowl I. Kolanderaz is a new foe. Despite the perception of being in a tough group due to being paired with the current host, and a prior one, the Rockets feel very good that they are about to experience success in this.

Only time will tell, as the puck is soon to drop on the World Cup of Hockey 6. Will there be growing pains here too, or can Newmanistan go on the same kind of roll that they went on in the Di Bradini Cup, the 4th version. We wish them the best, and will cover their efforts frequently as the competition moves forward.

Do you believe in miracles? Well, it wouldn’t be that big of a miracle, really.

The Unaclaimed Newspaper

Taeshan Wcoh Predictions
*This article is in now way the views of this newspaper, although i am writing it hmmm.

Group 1(places 1st to last)
Qazox
Lovisa
United Hetzel
Steel Butterfly
Jerusalem

Group 2
ESF
Prux
Kose
GW
Kenvant

Group 3
C&M
Plutoni
Gwaine
Quakmybush
Pablicosta

Group 4
Kelseek
Taeshan
Newmanistan
Septentrionia
Kolenderaz

Candelaria And Marquez World Cup of Hockey 6 Squad List

Head Coach
Seb Mulrooney

Goal
*Ocean Madiga
Marcus Emery
Johnathan Ang

Defence
*Daniel Oudin
*Nigel Gerard
Ed Costa
Yesterday Goldberg
John Croy
Norman Peterson
Chuck Oyono

Forwards
*Vernon Mucha
*Xavier Deadman (c)
*Chris Gerard
Geir Mathias
Edward Alfredsson
Tom Cortés
David Davis
William Moore
James Bell
Oliver Needham
Edward Arlott
Bala Ebûssüûd

*Denotes probable starter


The Albrecht Herald Online>Sport>Other>Latest News
Blues to face giants in Septentrionia

The hopes of the Blue Hard Vulcanised Rubber Discs in their second global Ice Hockey event have been dealt a blow after a tricky draw saw them face two-times champions Quakmybush and WCH5 semi-finalists Plutoni. Pablicosta, set for the opening day in Septentrionalis, look a less forbidding test, but Seb Mulrooney has admitted that global sports newcomers Gwaine, C&M’s third opponents, could be the dark horses for the tournament.

Hopes among the ice hockey-playing community in the Candelarias for a half-decent C&M performance have been high, largely thanks to the perceived lack of pressure the team will be under. Thrown into the deep end last time around, facing their first competitive extraregional match against the then holders and favourites Qazox, Mulrooney’s men were also drawn alongside Kura-Pelland – mere months following the now legendary knock-out clash between the sporting rivals in the less chilly code of hockey’s World Championship. C&M ended up losing the game 5-4, a result which saw them eliminated and taking the Kura-Pellandi side out with them by the narrowest of margins. They returned home as heroes.

This time out however, the much-heralded new Candelariasian love affair with the sport has failed to materialise, and the boys brought in from the WCiH-winning side have since gone back to the National Field Hockey League. With the Cup of Harmony ongoing meanwhile, the fifth Di Bradini Cup about to kick off, and a certain election to watch, no-one’s really going to be watching the lads exploits in Septentrionia. TTO have even relegated the group games to TTO Sport, alongside the World Series in Newt Fencing and judo from Dancougar. And that’s just the way they loikes it, one suspects.

In truth this is, for many of C&M’s stars, as much about getting themselves in the shop window as anything else. Winning’d be nice, but with the likes of Qazox, Prux, Kelssek, Plutoni and Quakmybush arrayed in front of them, it would be a mean Candelariasian hockey fan indeed who didn’t accept that Xavier Deadman, Daniel Oudin, Chris Gerard and Chuck Oyono et al deserve a shot of being picked up by one of the big leagues. Mulrooney will certainly have his work cut out to make sure they remember to work as a team, and not just focus on showing off their individual talents.

(Rockets players gather for one of their first get togethers of the competition)

Regan: Yo guys what’s up?

Trombley: Just chillin’ really.

Greene: Looking over these teams we’re gonna play, it seems as though these little razzle dazzle guys are going to be prevalent.

Regan: When speed meets strength, speed falls, speed cries for a penalty.

Meadows: I know you guys are going to have fun with that, glad to have you as teammates for once.

Regan: Yes, same with you I guess. Someone has to score goals.

Meadows: We’ll score. And with you guys we’ll win fights.

Evans: Well hello people. Lovely day in Septentrionia, isn’t it?

Greene: You. I can’t believe. You. A teammate.

Evans: Haha Clint. You know this is going to be fun playing with you guys.

Regan: The weasel is our teammate. Go figure.

Evans: Thats right, and the weasel has the goods all ready for our first opponent, which we get to play the host nation right here in their building.

Marchese: That will be fun.

Evans: Oh yes. All those Septentrionians coming to the game ready to make noise. Ready to cheer goals and expecting to see their team win. Awww, poor Septentrionia. Mommies and Daddies telling their kids how exciting it is that their Septentrionia is going to host this event and that there’s going to be goals.

Regan: Mommy and Daddy better tell their kids that there’s going to be hitting. And fights. And that this first team they are going to play is going to knock them all over the rink.

Greene: See kids, this is what happens when you’re little finesse stickhandler gets a dose of real hockey. He gets hit down to the ice and he lays there, looking up at the guy in blue and white. And what happens when we kick your players ass when we drop the gloves.

Evans: All the little kids are going to be crying. The parents whining damn you Newmanistan, you’re supposed to play hockey by skating around and around passing and making 50 little moves and scoring goals. Not by hitting the other team with pummeling checks, and fights. Oh no!

Regan: The Septentrionians are coming to cheer, and we’re gonna shut them up real quick.

Greene: Shut them and up and have them cry to the refs.

Meadows: Wow, it’s going to be fun playing with you.

Evans: And let’s not forget. While the home crowd hates us. To smile, laugh, and enjoy it.

Regan: Time to play hockey. REAL hockey. Bring them on!

Lovisa WC of Hockey 6 Squad

Head Coach
Dominic Racek

Goal
Sergio Bazer
Alexander Privo

Defence
Laurent Moreux
Tim Looney
Carsten Sendqvist
Tobias Sztyler
Carsten Baarg

Forwards
Jon Lundqvist
Arno Saalavilainen
Tomas Galberg
Joel Barlett
Jonathan Hildebrandt
Tomas Dolezal
Marek Vacek
Martin Prosinek
Grahame Balick

Somewhere in the headquarters of whatever agency oversees the national ice hockey team of Plutoni, two people are having a reasonably comprehensible conversation. This is probably a bad sign.

"Aréna? Métropolitain? What's with this country?"

"It's their unique linguistic cultural heritage or something."

"Forget that, we used up our supply of political correctness already."

"Did we have one?"

"Yes."

"Did you get my memo about encoding? We're gonna have a blog to cover the matches from Septentrionalis."

"Yeah, it's right here. I followed it to the letter. And other things."

"What other things?"

"Numbers. Special characters."

"Um..."

"It says right here, we need to use our entire supply of special characters."

"Oh. So. Who's playing, anyhow? The robotic semifinalists? Holdovers from the tournament before that?"

"Look, I followed your directions-"

"Yeah...but...characters? You talking fictional entities?"

"They're real all right."

"Special? "Special"?!? Is this what you did with our political correctness?"

If you RP before me you may:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmode goalscorers: No
Penalize my players: Yes
Godmode penalties: No
Injuries to my players: Yes (Only minor ones please)
Godmode Injuries: No

I am an offensive guy-the highest grade on a modifier (if any exists).

VDB-13 News (drum roll)

"Hello, I'm Cassie Campbell, with P.J. Stock. You're watching the World Cup 6 preview. As the whole nation knows, the World Cup of Hockey 6 is starting, with Hockey Kenavt team playing for the first time. In their group are Elves Security Forces, Prux, Green Wombat, and Kose and the Turkomans at
Quresville, Septentrionia. The group games will take place at Centre Métropolitain, a arena steeped with history in Quresville.

A schedule will be released shortly-we will keep you updated. Over to PJ at the final practice of Team Kenavt before the final cut is announced and the team leaves for Septentrionia. PJ?"

"Thank you Cassie. I'm outside humongous Hoc Arena. Coach Dave Selville should be coming out with the final players list.

As you know, Coach Selville has a huge problem on his hands. The Kenavt Hockey League has produced many fine quality players-especially goalies. Only 2 go on the final roster, with one as a backup, coming to Septentrionia. We are expecting Selville any second-there he is! Let's listen to what he has to say."

"Thank you, thank you. The long-awaited fourth cut has been made, and the final roster has been announced. 100 of the finest players Kenavt has to offer came in here last week, and only 25 will go to Septentrionia. Here is the final rosters:

Forwards:
Styx Askton (A)
Sean Backton
Matthias Blake
Kyle Brisingr
Gerber Cavtype
Andrew da Vincho
Daniel Fisher
Tyler Jolt
Ashton Jones
Thomas Nasquizox
Grant O'Dea
Alexandre Quaigon (C)
Jason Vivera
Michael Winterfield
Defenceman:
Roma Cated
Paul Escalty
Kris Letang
Ross Ierpol
Johnathan Opertuv
Anze Smith
Hall Sprint (A)
Typhon Staal
Marc Zike
Goalies:
Roy Ike
Luigi Meta
Ganon Rheame.

Thank you for your continued support of Hockey Kenavt, and as hockey as a whole."

"Well, that was Coach David Seville of Hockey Kenavt, head coach of the Kenavt National Team that's going to the World Cup of Hockey 6. Based on the roster he gave us, here's the likely pairings:

Forwards
Line 1
LW Alexandre Quaigon (C)
C Gerber Cavtype
RW Jason Vivera
Line 2
LW Ashton Jones
C Styx Askton (A)
RW Daniel Fisher
Line 3
LW Andrew da Vincho
C Kyle Brisingr
RW Jason Vivera
Line 4
LW Matthias Blake
C Tyler Jolt
RW Grant O'Dea
Defence
Pairing 1
Hall Sprint (A)
Anze Smith
Pairing 2
Paul Escalty
Roman Cated
Pairing 3
Dennis Frazen
Kris Letang
Goalies
1st: Roy Ike
2nd: Ganon Rheame
PowerPlay
Line 1
LW Alexandre Quaigon (C)
C Styx Askton (A)
RW Jason Vivera
D Kris Letang
D Hall Sprint (A)
Line 2
LW Andrew da Vincho
C Gerber Cavtype
RW Daniel Fisher
D Anze Smith
D Roman Cated
4 Men-1
W Alexandre Quaigon (C)
C Styx Askton (A)
D Kris Letang
D Hall Sprint (A)
4 Men-2
W Jason Viviera
C Gerber Cavtype
D Anze Smith
D Roman Cated
Penalty Kill
Line 1
W Grant O'Dea
C Tyler Jolt
D Hall Sprint (A)
D Anze Smith
Line 2
W Matthias Blake
C Kyle Brisingr
D Paul Escalty
D Roman Cated
3 Men-1
C Tyler Jolt
D Hall Sprint (C)
D Anze Smith
3 Men-2
C Kyle Brisingr
D Paul Escalty
D Roman Cated
RESERVES
Forwards:
Sean Backton
Ashton Jones
Michael Winterfield
Defense
Typhon Staal
Marc Zike
Goalie
Luigi Meta

"Now, over to Cassie."

"Well, there you have it. Here's the schedule:

Game 1: Prux vs. Kenavt
Game 2: Kose and the Turkomans vs. Kenavt
Game 3: Elves Security Forces vs. Kenavt
Game 4: Kenavt vs. Green Wombat
Game 5: BYE
Game 6: BYE-Friendlies
Game 7: Kenavt vs. Prux
Game 8: Kenavt vs. Kose and the Turkomans
Game 9: Kenavt vs. Elves Security Forces
Game 10: Green Wombat vs. Kenavt
Game 11: BYE

"See you on Saturday at 7pm KST for Prux vs. Kenavt. Good luck guys!"

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/kelchek/natl-hockey-jersey.jpg

GOALIES
Benoit Laharrague (Mazinaw Knights)
Brian Duborny (Vickery)
Ryan Cairn (Llandewi Brewi)

DEFENCEMEN
Sven Stefanovic (Neorvins Wolves)
Phillippe Godin (Breton Emeralds)
Rob Fletcher (Kirkenes Dragons)
Sean Macintosh (Faucons Saint-Remy)
Colin Calderwood (Neorvins Wolves) A
Josh Mulroney (Mazinaw Knights)
Frédéric Arnal (Olympique Langlois)
Andrew Ross (Colwyn)

FORWARDS
Neville Keanes (Neorvins Wolves) C
Laurent Oberforsky (Arlingsdale Blues)
Pierre Dubois (Olympique Laneux)
Phillip Adams (Dinamo Lupinissa)
Gary Bavarillo (Kirkenes Dragons)
Harry White (Kirkenes Dragons)
Marko Russlund (Jokerit Arvika)
Jason Ingram (Mazinaw Knights) A
Shaun O'Leary (Partisans Clayquot)
Ryan Perstham (Redswyth)
Laurent Dupuis (Burnaby)
Marcus Avery (Breton Emeralds)
Chris Juno (Redswyth)
Claude Aunbonchuart (Faucons Saint-Remy)

Typical lines and defensive pairs
Oberforsky-Keanes-Ingram
Adams-Bavarillo-Dupuis
Russlund-Perstham-O'Leary
Dupuis-Avery-White

Stefanovic-Calderwood
Macintosh-Arnal
Mulroney-Fletcher

Starting goaltender: Laharrague
Backup: Duborny
Backup backup: Cairn

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"Welcome back and Patrick, who do you see coming out of Group C?"


Campbell:
"The class of Grpup C is Plutoni, who I think is the dark horse in this tourney. They've done rather well the last two Cups and are ranked 4th in the world. It would be a slight shock not to see them through. As for the rest of the group, Candelaria and Marquez is the only other top threat, as Quakmybush has all but lost its magic from it's two Cup wins, which were a while ago. But the Sharks should pull through over Pablicosta and Gwaine."

Smythe:
"I am in complete agreement with you, Patrick. This particular group seems the easiest of the four, and the top seeds should have no trouble at all advancing. But watch out for Pablicosta, they could pull off an upset or two."

Wales:
"Ok gentlemen, your predicitions for Group C?"

Campbell:
"Plutoni first at 5-1-2
then Candelaria and Marquez 5-0-3
Quakmybush in third at 3-2-3
Pablicosta in 4th with a 3-1-4
fianlly Gwaine at 2-0-6."

Smythe:
"Plutoni at 7-0-1
then C&M at 5-0-3
Quakmybush at 4-1-3
then Pablicosta at 2-1-5
and Gwaine at 1-0-7."

Adams:
"That takes care of Group C, Onto group D. Another intersesting group contains both the current hosts, Septentrionia and the host of the last two Cups, Kelssek. Also in the group are taeshan, Newmanistan and Kolanderaz. So Norris, who emerges from this one?"

Smythe:
"I think this is the group of death. Two nations that are either hosting or have hosted, the wild card in taeshan and Newmanistan, who have proved in a very short time they can compete at a high level in whatever sport they are in. I think when the ice settles, Kelssek and Septentrionia will advance along with...Newmanistan in a upset over taeshan!"

Campbell:
"Norris, you are a moron. Other than Kelssek, this group has 3 newbs, and taeshan, who makes the Qazox footy team look like World Cup champions! Kelssek probably could play their second string and advance out of this group, As for the other 2, taeshan and the hosts will edge out the rest of the junk to be eliminated in the 2nd round."

Wales:
"Ok gentlemen, your predicitions for Group D?"

Smythe:
"Kelssek at 7-1-0,
Septentrionia at 4-2-2
Newmanistan at 3-2-3
taeshan at 2-1-5
then Kolanderaz at 1-0-7."

Campbell:
"It'll be Kelssek at 8-0-0
then taeshan at 6-0-2
Septentrionia at 3-1-4
newmanistan at 2-1-5
and Kolanderaz at 1-0-7"

Wales:
"There you have it, the group predictions. Now based on those predictions, we have Norris Smythe's and Patrick Campbells' playoff predictions.

SMYTHE'S
BYES:Qazox, Prux, Plutoni and Kelssek

First Round
ESF vs. Newmanistan
Green wombat vs. Septentrionia
Lovisa vs. Quakmybush
Steel Butterfly vs. Candelaria and Marquez

QTRS:
Qazox v Quakmybush
Prux v. Candelaria and Marquez
Plutoni v. ESF
Kelssek v. Green wombat

SEMIS:
Qazox v. Plutoni
Kelssek v. Candelaria and Marquez

FINALS:
Qazox def. Kelssek

CAMPBELL'S
Byes: Qazox, ESF, Plutoni and Kelssek

First round:
Lovisa v. Septentrionia
Green wombat v. Quakmybush
Candelaria and Marquez v. Prux
taeshan v. Jeruselem

QTRS:
Qazox v. Jeruselem
ESF v. Prux
Plutoni v. Green wombat
Kelssek v. Septentrionia

SEMIS:
Qazox v. Kelssek
ESF v. Plutoni

FINALS:
Qazox def. Plutoni

A Group of well known Newmanistanian reporters get set to discuss to upcoming World Cup of Hockey. (OOC: ok, I need to stop typing “World Cup of Harmony”)

Traynor: Good morning, and in this segment we are going to discuss the World Cup of Hockey, I’m your host, Meghan Traynor. With me is Kevin Collins.

Collins: Hello everyone.

Traynor: Joining us via satellite from Starblaydia is Clint Peterson. How are things out there, Clint?

Peterson: Nice to hear from you again Megs. Things are going well out here in the land of Di Bradini.

Traynor: Alright, Clint is our world football reporter, but he has some versatility in his knowlegde of other sports, so he’s gonna help us out. And also Jenn Murphy, our racing analyst joins us, via satellite from Eurograd, where OBIRA qualifying takes place.

Murphy: Hey Meg! Wassup! I love hockey!

Traynor: Yes we know, Jenn played ice hockey in high school. A little known fact about her.

Murphy: That’s right!

Traynor: Alright guys we’re gonna play a little game called OVER or UNDER. I give you a number, and you tell me if you think it will be over or under. Or even.

Collins: Do I win a prize?

Traynor: Yeah you get to be on the Pocono City Sports Report tomorrow morning, Kevin!

Collins: And with you?! Forget a million gold coins, that rocks!

Traynor: In the Cup of Harmony, Newmanistan and Septentrionia played to a 4-4 draw. In the World Cup, number of combined goals, between the teams. 8: OVER or UNDER?

Collins: This one is obvious. Under.

Peterson: Under here too.

Murphy: Even if you gave a combined score of 4, I say under.

Traynor: Yes, we started with an easy one. Percentage of pissed off Septentrionia fans about the way the Rockets play. 80%: OVER or UNDER.

Collins: Over. Just because they are excited to host, its their first time, and they want to see goals and excitement. Not this hard nosed checking team playing the trap.

Peterson: Over here too. Like he said, if these teams met later, I think they would be more understanding of it, because obviously this a great hockey nation. But in the first game, this is not the type of team the host wants to be playing.

Murphy: I’m gonna say under actually. I think the fans here appreciate the way hockey is played and can respect the fact that Newmanistan is physical and defensive. 80% is a high number you gave, so under.

Collins: Stick to racing, Jenn.

Murphy: Bite me, Kevin.

Traynor: Number of goals by the leading Newmanistan goal scorer in the tournament’s group stages. 10: OVER or UNDER?

Collins: Over, by a little bit. The Rockets will have a couple games they score in. Especially Taeshan. You see their roster?

Peterson: Yeah, um, Taeshan, you should really bring more players. I say under though, because I see it being really spread out without one guy in particular lighting it up.

Murphy: I call even.

Traynor: What is it with Taeshan anyway? 2 forward lines, 2 defensive pairings? How in the world is this team going to survive? Especially when they get banged around by Newmanistan.

Peterson: Let’s hope their roster was preliminary. And more are to be named.

Collins: And Gwaine morphed the “Philadelphia Flyers”, what gives?

Peterson: Gwaine brought the morphed modern day “Flyers”, we’re bringing the Broad Street Bullies. (OOC: Gwaine, I am a real life Flyers fan, FYI)

Murphy: What is this, Philadelphia?

Collins: Again Jenn, stick to racing, and looking good.

Murphy: Your lucky I’m only via satellite!

Peterson: Stop Kevin, you’ll make Meghan jealous.

Traynor: Alright, alright. Jenn’s like my sister so its ok. Anyway, back on topic?

Collins: Oooooh.

Peterson: Yes, please!

Traynor: Rockets finish 3rd in group. Over is 1st or 2nd, under is 4th or 5th.

Collins: Over, Newmanistan wins the Group.

Peterson: Don’t be a complete homer, Kevin.

Collins: You’ll see.

Peterson: I say over, 2nd to Kelssek. They do have a tradition, ya know.

Murphy: I agree with Clint, 2nd to Kelssek. Over.

Traynor: Number of fights in opening game vs Septentrionia. A fight is defined as an instance where both receive 5 minute fighting calls. If they receive 2 minute roughings, it’s not a fight.

Collins: Geez, Meghan, no shit really? I’m kidding.

Traynor: Well there are a lot of young fans who think it’s a fight just because there was a couple shoves, so I have to be specific.

Collins: Yes, so you kids who chant “Fight! Fight!” in the stands when its just a little scrum behind the net, do us all a favor, and shut up next time.

Traynor: So anyway. Three. OVER or UNDER.

Collins: Under. Septentrionia’s gonna wuss out until they have too. They don’t want to play Newmanistan’s game, especially in the first game.

Peterson: Over. I disagree, because the Rockets will make them do exactly what they want to get them off their game.

Murphy: I’m gonna call even again.

Collins: Come on Jenn, one or the other. We call it over or under for a reason.

Murphy: Well, Kevin, even is actually a more risky bet when you play over or under, and pays more when you win!

Peterson: You just got owned, Kevin.

Traynor: Good one Jenn!

Collins: This is a TV segment, not a casino. Or a racetrack.

Traynor: Alright and now that TV segment is over. Not under. Have a good day.

Flyers Rock, oilers are pretty good to. ^^^

Anyways weve always had this many lines they just play a lot and people dont get hurt a lot in Taeshan or tired, unless they play soccer for a living.

World Cup 40 Assistant Coach was standing with Jeruselem's first hockey team. The Catholic Nun was chosen as the coach due her experience at the World Cup 40 and she coached girls at her school in hockey. Most schools in Jeruselem don't know what hockey is. Most schoolkids who played hockey eventually take up another sport due to the lack of money around.

The team was made up off a motley crew of players who had some sort of experience playing hockey and knew what is was about. The team were sponsored by the Razzle Dazzle clothing chain who also provided the team equipment. The team was named the Kitties which wasn't a menacing name but reflected the Hello Kitty! gear they had to advertise.

Most of the team were part-time amateurs and none were full-time pros. Most people would have trouble spotting the team coach as Sister Marsha was small blonde girl dressed like a Dazza Dallas. There weren't high expectations of this team as most expected the Kitties to lose all their games and come last. Any win was a bonus.

OOC - Err roster to come later folks

Kolanderaz Marshall Eagles
HEAD COACH:Dr. Jacob Grenhiva
FORWARDS

Line 1:
LW- Sammi Kinsella
C-Dan Jehova (C)
RW- Frederick O Gorman (A)

Line 2:
LW- Orton Heraughty
C- Erik McNamee
RW- Parlito Kranczievus

Line 3:
LW- Reds Gritenberg
C- Ed Michaels
RW- Tommy Gree

Line 4:
LW- Thierry Messu
C- Andrew Shevkencho
RW- Diyyo Fallon-Sonsoles

DEFENSEMEN
Pairing 1
James Julian (A)
Surtha Nitsoba

Pairing 2
James McIlroy
Carlton Yeoghua

Pairing 3
Mike Hunt
Greg Lucas

Pairing 4
Elliot Hunt
Barry Kent

GOALIES
Kevin Nicholls
Aaron Monk
Adrian Bown

If you RP before me you may:
CHOOSE MY GOALSCORERS: Yes
GODMODE GOALSCORERS: Yes
PENALIZE MY PLAYERS: Yes
GODMODE PENALTIES:Yes
INJURIES TO MY PLAYERS: Yes
GODMODE INJURIES: yes

Septentrionian roster, 6th World Cup of Hockey

Head Coach: Émile Vachon (Ourseville 1093)


Player No. Pos. Age Club
Rémy Charpie 1 G 24 Ourseville 1093
Gaston Filteau 33 G 31 Septentrionalis HC
Thibaut Longpré 17 C 28 US Septentrionalis
Robert Huot 22 C 22 Sauvageville
Thibault Lampron 14 C 26 CA Ourseville
Marcel Larose 9 C 18 Richelieu AC
Christian Verreau 54 C 23 Ourseville 1093
Jacques Laisné 28 LW 33 Ourseville 1093
Pierre Paquette 26 LW 41 Mont-Surrindère
Marcel Cartier 35 LW 21 CH Piedmont
Gilbert Doyon 5 LW 22 Orléans
Amaury Rochon 8 LW 27 Desmarais
Vincent Deschamps 4 RW 25 Bourdailleux
Louis Deschamps 7 RW 23 Bourdailleux
Arthur Reny 11 RW 19 Ourseville 1093
Denis Robert 10 RW 24 ASJL
Alphonse Busque 65 RW 27 Sauvageville
Jules Giguère 2 D 28 Ourseville 1093
Jacques Faucher 15 D 21 Ourseville 1093
Thomas Gareau 6 D 24 Union
Thomas Lagassé 3 D 25 Union
Alain Boulanger 24 D 34 Richelieu AC
Joseph Labossière 27 D 37 CH Vaudreuil
Michel Devoe 45 D 32 Union
Édouard Dion 18 D 28 Orléans

Note: Lines are done according to their order in here: 1st Centre + 1st Left Wing + 1st Right Wing = 1st line. 1st and 2nd defensemen = 1st defensive pairing. And so on. There is no 5th line and neither 4th pairing: they are simply there in case there's an injured player.

Also: this will act as the RP cut-off. I'll post links to team rosters in the first post, then I'll post results

Matchday 1:

Group A:
Lovisa 1 - 1 Steel Butterfly
Jeruselem 2 - 2 United Hertzel

Group B:
Prux 1 - 1 Kenavt
Green Wombat 1 - 3 Kose and the Turkomans

Yeah, I know: lots of draws

Drake:
“Hello I’m William Drake and welcome to OSN Primetime©, Orion’s own Sports Network. Joining me today are co-host John Stone as well as OBC sports reporter Sydney Fry.”

Stone:
“And do we of Orion know how to start off a tournament or not?”

Fry:
“Guys I think the game says it all. Lets just roll the clip.”

The game appears on screen between Lovisa and Orion, the camera centered on the opening face-off. The referee drops the puck between Alexei Zeitzev, captain of the Fenrirs, and Jon Lundqvist of Lovisa.

Stone:
“Orion starts strong right from the get-go, with Zeitzev taking the puck straight down the ice, passing to Adrian Winters quick on the right side…WRIST SHOT!…but a brilliant save by Sergio Bazer of Lovisa.”

Drake:
“However, Lovisa, the sixth ranked team in the universe, quickly begins their assault on Fenrir rookie goalie Arkady Nikitin that will last all game.”

The highlight reel shows a number of Lovisa players all taking shots and getting rebounds against the Orion goalie.

Fry:
“Yes, by the end they will have 37 shots on goal, compared to only 15 for Orion.”

Stone:
“However it is the Orion defense, led by assistant captain James Julian, that really shines in this game.”

Various clips of vicious hits and quick defense work from Julian appear on screen.

Drake:
“The first period ends scoreless, with Nikitin already having successfully defended 12 shots, compared to only three by Bazer.”

Fry:
“It is somewhat surprising that the Orion offense was so slow to get started, especially after their quick first shot on goal, but their defense was absolutely remarkable given the intense Lovisan attack.”

Stone:
“Unfortunately, in the first minute of the second period, Lovisan forward Arno Saalavilainen strikes gold off a rebound through the legs of Nikitin, putting Lovisa up 1-0.”

Drake:
“The Fenrirs win the face-off and quickly take the puck down the ice, with Zeitzev passing to Mitchell, Mitchell back to Zeitzev, Zeitzev shoots…blocked by Sergio Bazer.”

Fry:
“However, almost immediately after the shot Mitchell is slammed up against the boards hard by Lovian defender Tim Looney, prompting captain Zeitzev to hit Looney hard after the whistle, knocking the defender clean off his skates.”

A number of players rush to the scene, including James Julian and Adrian Winters of Orion and Tobias Sztyler and Joel Barlett for Lovisa. Adrian Winters punches Barlett hard, knocking him over, while Julian and Sztyler seem evenly matched and are pulled apart after exchanging blows.

Stone:
“The fight leaves Orion shorthanded, with Zeitsev and Winters going to the penalty box for two minutes each, as well as Saalavilainen for Lovisa.”

Drake:
“However, Lovisa is unable to capitalize on the four on three powerplay, and the rest of the period goes by smoothly with second linesman Victor Titov getting a few nice shots on goal, however, like the rest of Orion, he is unable to score. The second period ends the same as the first, with Lovisa up 1-0.”

Fry:
“By the beginning of the third period, however, you can feel the tide beginning to change. Lovisa seems tired, having skated head to head against the lightning fast Fenrirs all day, and is starting to break down.”

Stone:
“Half-way through, Lovisan defender Tobias Sztyler again picks a fight with a Fenrir player, this time beating up forth-line winger Maksim Diemchuk.”

Drake:
“With the 5-on-4 advantage, Orion capitalizes with seconds left in the powerplay.”

Adrian Winters is seen receiving a Zeitzev pass at the blue line. He hesitates for a moment, before winding up to shoot.

Drake:
“Winters receives the pass from Zeitzev, winds up, he shoots…HE SCORES! THE GAME IS TIED! THE GAME IS TIED!”

The puck flies past two defenders and above the stick hand of Lovisa goalie Bazer. The Orion players go wild.

Fry:
“For the rest of the game, the hockey is as even as the score, with neither team having any real chances to score. Both defenses and goalies hold strong. The game ends in a 1-1 tie!”

The highlight reel ends, the camera returning to show the three sportscasters seated behind a desk.

Drake:
“So what does this say for Orion hockey?”

Stone:
“I think it says what we think we all knew, that Orion was severely underrated in international hockey.”

Fry:
“Or that Lovisa, the sixth ranked team in the universe, is a bit overrated.”

Drake:
“I believe that the rematch will determine that. However, what I do know is that as of today, Orion is tied for the group A lead with one point. I’m William Drake,”

Stone:
“I’m John Stone,”

Together:
“And this is OSN Primetime©!”

Fry:
“Goodnight, Orion.”

Bob: DAMMIT! I can't belive that Jongbum missed that penalty shot, and we start out with a draw against a place we've never heard of!

Brian: I told ya it was gonna be harder, we aren't gonna sneak up on anyone this time around. At least Mormcheese got a goal and Clidiotlump did well in net, stopping 36 shots.

Bob: SO what? We are still the champions and until we they take it from us, champions we shall remain!

Brian: Been watching those Karate-Girl movies again huh?

Bob: Well it worked last time, right? Couldn't hurt to watch them again.

Brian: I gotta go, I think Hidiotuzz and Borkbumble accidently ate some cheese, and you know they're lactose-intolorant.

Bob: Better you than me!

Joe Baggs WCoH Blog.

Can't this team do anything right? 0 for 7 on the powerplay and they allowed 2 short-handed goals? The only damn thing that went right was the goal, and even that was accident;y knocked in by that Kose and Turkomans defender. Alex Troche got credit, only because he tripped and kicked the puck towards the defender. And Paul Nutt somehow only allowed 3 goals, when at least 12 should have been scored. I don't know why Green wombat keeps trying to participate in all these sport, we suck at. Now if there was a beer-battered deep-fried cheese stick eating contest, then I'd say we'd be the favorites, but until then, why bother? We haven't won anything worth mentioning. "but Joe, we did have a rider win the Tour de Qazox!" Yeah, that was what, 25 years ago? what have we dones since? get our asses kicked in 3 World Cups? get our asses kick at the last WCof Hockey? got our asses beat in godknows how many WBC's? BTW ESF is up next, an we ain't winning that one.

"Who the bloody hell are these people that the VSC have sent to the World Cup of Hockey eh? I don't recognize a single name from the entire roster." an angry Findecáno Amandil exclaimed.

"Calm down deary. It's the same roster from the previous two tournament." his wife, Larien, tried to comfort him.

"No it's bloody not! I don't see Martin Koula, Sergei Osefrus, or Michael Walker!!!"

"Well hun, that's because the VSC forgot to translate their elven names to English for this tournament. They are soo busy with all the other events going on at this time, that when the manager sent them his roster, the aid forgot to translate it before submitting it to the WCoH officials."

"Bah. Sounds like those bunch of pansies were just being lazy. Oh well, being somewhat of a purist, I guess I do kind of like having their elven names instead of the darn translated names. Although some of the untranslated names are going to be hard for those humans to pronounce I bet. I hope the EBC sent one of their own commentators or else we might need to mute the commentary."

Larien shook her head and sighed.
"Of course they did dear, the EBC is far more organized when it comes to these sort of things. Now please, just watch the game and let me get back to my prayers."

Sept, could we possibly get a "standings" post up, or either in post 1 or 11?

*Coach Johnson throws the local paper to the ground in disgust*
Johnson: DO YOU SEE THIS???? ANSWER ME DO ANY OF YOU SEE THIS??? I do, and as much as I hate the press and these so called "Experts" who only talk about the teams that win. Never once do they ever mention anything of the underdog. This paper has us not winning a single game, I was watching TV earlier and two of the "experts" have us DEAD-****ING LAST in the entire cup!!! Finishing with only 1 win! Just because people have never heard of you before does NOT mean that the other team is better, sure they may have played in more cups or more games, but that DOES NOT mean they are better. Now let us go out there and prove not only ourselves wrong, but the entire nation, and world. We can do this, we just to have confidence in ourselves and in each other. I know the past 6 months I have been hard on you, but you guys always had faith in me as a coach never once walking away or backing down and I thank you for that. But this is where it matters, at this point it is WIN OR GO HOME!!!

Roeneke: Let's ****ing Rock!!!

(Taeshan, Oilers are a great team and I thank them for giving us Smith. Lol, Hardcore Flyers fan here)

Plutoni national ice hockey team, World Cup of Hockey 6
that is, the "special characters" now in control of the asylum

They go in general from top down in order of quality. Most have short descriptions, the ones who don't are cut from the same general mold-be creative. RPers can and are encouraged to do absolutely anything.

Forwards:
Peter "Pilcrow"-the best player on the team. Not one of your triple-digit IQ types. Not even close.
Donald "Dash"-a great skater whose puck handling skills are less than that
Stanley "Space"-quite a good player actually, as long as he remembers that he's playing hockey and not in his own little world
Tyler "Tilde"-lots of flair but no fundamentals
Andre "Asterisk"-what are the penalties for performance-enhancing drugs?
Perry "Parentheses"-always open for a pass, but rarely has a good shot on goal
Connor "Caret"-leader of the players' union, and pretty much always on strike
Oliver "Obelisk"
George "Guillemet"
Oswald "Octothand"
Chad "Circumflex"
Christopher "Caron"

Defenders:

Sammy "Slash"-perhaps you can guess why he is so frequently in the penalty box?
Dwayne "Degree"-a pond hockey star, whose skills haven't materialized indoors
Paul "Plus sign"-too many cross-checking penalties.
Benny "Bracket"-abysmal during the second period, decent enough otherwise
Colin "Cent"-a perfectly normal, mentally stable fellow who really can't play ice hockey but we needed a captain
Arthur "Ampersand"

Goalies:
Ulrich "Umlaut"-loves doing that tapping his stick on the ice thing counting down a penalty (and he'll have lots of chances to). He's only taken off other people's skates once or twice.
Igor "Interrobang"-once in a while has a really good day...in a really long while.

Sept, could we possibly get a "standings" post up, or either in post 1 or 11?

Standings are completely useless so far, as only one game has been played: I will post them after MD3 and 4. Don't worry

Also: RP Cut-off

Matchday 2:

Group C:
Quakmybush 0 - 0 Gwaine
Candelaria and Marquez 3 - 0 Pablicosta

Group D:
Taeshan 1 - 0 Kolanderaz
Septentrionia 1 - 1 Newmanistan

Gwaine puts up Tie in Cup Opening Round
By: Mike Barcann

Mark Biris blocked 39 shots, and the Gwaine penalty-killing teams killed 3 straight 5 on 3 penalties. In what looked like a great defensive game for Gwaine, they were actually killed on Penalty minutes. Gwaine managed a total of 28 minutes in the box, with Rich Michaels and Jhonny Lupul being ejected for game misconduct after a bad call by Referee Jeff Goldblum with 1 minute left in the first period. Without their two best puck-handlers and more penalty killing Gwaine had little chance to go on offense managing only 16 shots the entire game with 8 being in the first period. "I don't blame anyone for this" Coach Stephen Johnson said in the post-game press conference "I guess we just were called more for penalties. I think there was only one even strength moment in the entire third period." Captain Jeremy Roneke had a different view on it "I think the referees were definitely against us this game. There were alot of phantom calls, and just bad moments for us. But I have to hand it to the opposition they played a hell of a game, capitalizing on every power play they had. Luckily we just have a good defense, let's hope tomorrow is better."

Gwaine is currently 0-0-1 in the first round.

The Unaclaimed Newspaper*

Taeshan wins first World Cup of Hockey match. Already beating there own Expectations

The brand new team only just re rostered after two failures in there last to attempts defeated Kolenderaz in a one goal affair. Young Goalie Anyele Borreman, and Smitty Myers teamed up to assist on a Ashton Appleby wrap around powerplay goal.

Said Mr. Myers twin brother Jamie"Coach said we were gonna do good but Appleby the captain denied it. After this game maybe we have a chance, But weve alwasy faltered when it counts." Bright words Jamie Bright words."

THE ROCKET REPORT

ANOTHER TIE WITH SEPTENTRIONIA

Septentrionia- The World Cup of Hockey got underway this evening, in a jam packed Arena 1093. With standing room only, the stadium only actually has a capacity of 11,000, but judging by the amount of noise that they were making it seemed like there was over 50,000 of them in the arena, passionately waving their Septentrionia flags. There was a contingent of Newmanistan fans there, but they didn’t really get heard from until the 3rd period.

Newmanistan set the tone for the game immediately, when less then two minutes in, defensemen Kevin Regan drilled center Thibaut Longpre, the top line center with a vicious hit as Longpre tried to skate the puck past the blue line. Longpre needed to be helped off the ice, causing the pumped up crowd to immediately draw its ire towards Regan. Thibaut would not return until the third period. The crowd was even more upset when Regan wasn’t even called with a penalty. From our replays though, the proper “no call” was made, Regan never left his feet, and hit him cleanly, the Septentrionian forward just wasn’t prepared for the power of Regan’s check, and coach Vachon on their bench seemed to realize it was a clean hit and had no argument on the non call. The first ten or so minutes were much like this, with the Rockets playing physical, knowing that it would be the best way to get the crowd out of the game. Fans wanting to see shots on goal were a little disappointed, as midway through the first period, their team only had 3 shots, though that was one more then Newmanistan. The Septs (ooc: sorry, I don’t know what else to call your team) had some chances late in the period though, as the referee awarded them 3 power plays. However, a tenacious penalty kill held the Septs to only 2 shots combined on the power plays. Scoreless after 1, with Septentrionia outshooting Newmanistan by a slim 6-5 margin. Not what the home crowd really was hoping for.

In the second period, Septentrionia made some outstanding adjustments to their game, and started to get their fans into the game. A barrage of shots were put on Craig Sanders in the first five minutes of the period, but Sanders was equal to the task, stopping each one and doing a good job of controlling the rebounds and covering up. At the 7:04 mark, the Septs were awarded their 4th powerplay of the game (with Newmanistan still awaiting their first PP, we must add), and a blistering shot from the point Jules Giguere was ever so slightly deflected by the stick of Vincent Deschamps to put the hosts in front 1-0 at the 8:22 mark. However, Newmanistan thought that Septentrionia’s goal celebration went a little overboard, and Todd McKinley cross checked Deschamps in the back, sending him to the ice. This then sent the gloves flying of McKinley and Giguere, and meanwhile Jacques Laisne and Francois Loiselle also went at it. McKinley was the clear winner in the fight with Giguere, however Laisne and Loiselle probably were even. The referee evened up the penalties, much to the crowd chagrin. He did give McKinley the extra two, but gave Lasine an additional two as well, for instigating with Loiselle. The rest of the period came and went, with Newmanistan getting some quality opportunities late as they tried to pick up the intensity. But after two, the hosts were up 1-0, and outshooting Newmanistan 16-11.

At the start of the third, things started quickly for the Rockets, as on the first shift of the period, Newmanistan would tie up the game. With some good puck possession, Stewart took a shot from about 5 feet inside the blue line, which was stopped by Remy Charpie, but he could not control the rebound. Scott Meadows was right on top of it, and lifted it over Charpie’s left pad to tie up the game. Meadows, from Stewart and Regan at 0:25. Following the goal, the referee realized he had to do something about this giving Septentrionia 5 PP’s and none for Newmanistan, so like most referees, he began to even up the calls, giving Newmanistan 4 consecutive PP’s, including a 28-second 5-on-3. However, the Septentrionia penalty kill and Remy Charpie were outstanding, stopping all 10 shots that the Rockets mustered up during this stretch. When it was all said and done, we were down to 4 minutes remaining, and the Rockets having taken all 13 shots in the period, and the small Rockets contingent were beginning to be heard from in the stands. It was at this time that Thibaut Longpre returned, heroically, to the ice, but he seemed to be feeling it a little bit. Kevin Regan noticed him, and after a whistle, skated towards Longpre. A cheap shot? No, a bit of high five, with Regan letting him know he was glad he was ok, and getting the Septentrionian to laugh at some kind of joke. Kevin just seemed to want Longpre to know, that he was just doing his job. The Septs got just one shot in the remaining time, and that is how the game would end. 1-1. Newmanistan outshot Septentrionia 24-17 in the game.

Matchday 3 results:

Group A:
Jeruselem 0 - 4 Qazox
United Hertzel 1 - 2 Steel Butterfly


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Steel Butterfly 1 0 1 3 3 2 1
2. Qazox 1 0 0 2 4 0 4
3. Lovisa 0 0 1 1 1 1 0
4. United Hertzel 0 1 1 1 3 4 -1
5. Jeruselem 0 1 1 1 2 6 -4


Group B:
Green Wombat 1 - 2 Elves Security Forces
Kose and the Turkomans 2 - 4 Kenavt


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Kenavt 1 0 1 3 5 3 2
2. Elves Security Forces 1 0 0 2 2 1 1
3. Kose and the Turkomans 1 1 0 2 5 5 0
4. Prux 0 0 1 1 1 1 0
5. Green Wombat 0 2 0 0 2 5 -3

Jacinta Dallas was sitting around with Flak Sho when she saw Jeruselem 0 - 4 Qazox in the newspaper.

Jacinta: What's this? Qazox beat us!
Flak: Don't worry Jacinta, that's the hockey results.
Jacinta: Hockey?
Flak: Lots of people running around on field chasing a small object with sticks.

Jacinta: I know what hockey is, I didn't we had a team.
Flak: You got confused because Cup of Harmony and Cup of Hockey have the same initials. Even more confusing when the World Cup 40 assistant coach is also the hockey coach.
Jacinta: No one told me we had a hockey team ...
Flak: You're too busy planning a wedding.

Jacinta: Maybe I could give Hockey a go!
Flak: Err, since your football skills suck, you'd be bad at hockey too.
Jacinta: I could have a go still.
Flak: Unless you want to be hit by flying objects and big sticks.

Jacinta: In that case, no then. Footballs are scary enough.
Flak: Still to what you're good at.
Jacinta: Having babies, singing and driving fast.
Flak: Well, maybe driving slower would help but yes.

Jacinta: Still, I must write to our hockey team! Got the roster.
Flak: Err, no idea. I think they forgot to post it.
Jacinta: I'll write to Sister Marsha then.

[OOC: United Hetzel has yet to post a roster, even after two games. It’s kinda hard to do a SportsCenter-type clip with no opposing roster. This will have to do.]

Drake:
“Hello I’m William Drake and welcome to OSN Primetime©, Orion’s own Sports Network, and do we have a great one for you tonight! Joining me today is co-host John Stone, as well as OBC sports reporter Sydney Fry.”

Stone:
“Last game, the Fenrirs tied the sixth best team in the world, and if that was any indication of things to come, tonight promised to be a dandy against a team with the same amount of experience and the same record.”

Fry:
“Oddly enough Orion got off to another slow start, with Nikitin giving up the early goal to put the Fenrirs behind 1-0 from the get-go. Do you think it’s a problem with Coach Kiril’s motivation or gameplan?”

Drake:
“No. Honestly I think it’s just a new international team acting like a new international team. These guys don’t play with each other. This is all new for Orion, and I think mental errors like being slow from the start of the game, or getting penalized an awful lot, are the price that this team will pay until it starts to feel more comfortable.”

Fry:
“They need to play like a team, and while individual talent, and damn Adrian Winters has a lot, and a solid defense will get them to tie Lovisa and beat United Hetzel, playing off the cuff of their sleeves won’t get them very far when they have to take on Qazox, the Fenrir’s next game. Qazox is ranked number 2 in the world, and just won 4-0 tonight.”

Stone:
“And Qazox is in second place in group A. Behind who? The Orion Fenrirs!”

Drake:
“Point taken. Back to the game, just as Orion gave up a single goal in the first period in both games, their defense held during the second period and neither side scored.”

Fry:
“The first two groupings of defense for the Fenrirs have just been out of this world. They have shut down everyone so far, and that’s good, because they’re going to need it.”

Stone:
“Enough about Qazox! Listen, I’m going to give you two reasons why Orion’s going to wipe the smiles off their second-ranked faces: Captain Alexei Zeitzev and Assistant Captain Adrian Winters. Both had a goal and an assist tonight. Both came during the 3rd period, when they were needed the most. And both are just too damn good to be contained. Winters has scored in every game so far!”

Drake:
“To be fair to Sydney, Qazox did pitch a shutout tonight. I wouldn’t look past that when focusing on their four goals scored.”

Fry:
“Listen I’m not in awe of Qazox, I’m not saying we’re going to lose, and I’m not saying that Zeitzev and Winters won’t be a part of it. I just think that the way to beat that high-powered offense isn’t to hope that ours will match it, but to make sure our defense takes theirs on head-on. Defenders Assistant Captain James Julian and Artem Vasiliev are both former Orion Cup MVP’s. They’ve both started together for the All-Star team for the past three years. Cole Bistok is a punisher, and he’s going to lay people out, and he’s going to get into fights, and he’s going to win. James Cavalancia’s skill will drive Qazox forwards insane. Even Taras Talas has two Orion Cup rings. The defense is going to win it for us.”

http://209.85.48.8/237/117/upload/p701887.png

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and joining me tonight are Patrick Campbell and Norris Smythe, and finally the Pheonix got under way today, on day three, and despite the extra two days rest, Qazox dominated Jeruselem from the opening faceoff, cruising to a 4-0 victory. Norris, what was the key to the Pheonix' sucess?"

Smythe:
"The frontline of Guercio, Kirchner and Hardin were the key. The line had 13 shots and 5 points combined, and Jeruselem had no answer for those three."

Campbell:
"I agree with you there Norris. Kirchner alone had 2 goals and and assist and he earned the 1st star tonight. But let's not forget Jaques Maaten in between the pipes. He earned the second star with 22 saves and looked unbeatable in net."

Wales:
"So looking at the next game on the schedule, is Steel Butterfly, who currently lead the group with a 1-0-1 record. So what do the Pheonix have to do to win this upcoming match, Patrick?"

Campbell:
"Adam, just keep doing what they did against Jeruselem and they should have little trouble winning."

Smythe:
"The only thing to worry about is the injury Brian Caulder had. Granted it was only an ankle sprain, but that could effect his play a bit and he wins many faceoffs. If he can play at 90%, then there should be no problem for Qazox, but if he can't play, then the game might be closer than we expect."

Wales:
"Ok. For those of you that either missed the game or tuned in late, here is the scoring summary for the game:"



TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 1 1 2 4
Jeruselem 0 0 0 0

FIRST PERIOD
Qazox- GOAL Jim Kirchner (assisted by: Hardin, Leventhal)- 5:12.
Qazox- Penalty (roughing- Fluey)- 12:10
Jeruselem- Penalty (roughing- Def) 18:52
SECOND PERIOD
Qazox- GOAL (PP) Leon Guercio (assisted by: Kirchner) 0:12
Qazox- Penalty (fighting- Asikei) 5:13
Jeruselem- Penalty (fighting- LW) 5:13
Jeruselem- Penalty (roughing- Def) 8:07
Qazox- Penalty (HighSticking- Hardin)- 17:09
THIRD PERIOD
Qazox- Penalty (roughing- Caulder) 4:11
Jeruselem- Penalty (roughing- C) 11:11
Qazox- GOAL John Barage (assisted by Gutshall, Maaten)- 14:08
Qazox- GOAL (EN) Jim Kirchner(2) (unassisted) 19:42

TOTAL SHOTS
TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 11 13 13 37
Jeruselem 7 6 9 22
POWERPLAY
Qazox- 1/3
Jeruselem- 0/3

Joe Baggs WCoH Blog.


SEE? I told ya, we wouldn't beat ESF. But we scored the first goal, that's good right? Well it was a 5-0n-3 powerplay, and if you don't score a goal then, then you really suck. and this team does. Why? THEY ALLOWED ANOTHER SHORTHANDED GOAL.. JUST SECONDS AFTER THEY SCORED THE FIRST GOAL!

WHAT the hell? I could do better with a 4 retarded mice and a blind rat! Then with the game still tied, somehow I'll never know, a penalty by Marcus Ryba with only 56 seconds left allows ESF to go on the powerplay and score the winning goal with 30 second left.

The next game is against Kenavt, a team we are supposedly better than, at least according to the rankings, and who came up with the rank taht the Wombats are the 10th best team in the world? We aren't the tenth best team in the group, and there's only 5 teams in it!

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and as promised, here's a quick look at the venues, that would have been hosting this WCof Hockey, but hopefully will be hosting the next one:"

Ox-Cola Center. Cap: 17,130 (Host: Qazox City Eagles)
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/8a/Boston_arena_2.gif

Pika Bank and Trust Center. Cap: 17,000 (host: Pika City Express)
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b1/TDBanknorthSportsCenterHockey.jpg/800px-TDBanknorthSportsCenterHockey.jpg

Hemisphere Bank Center. Cap: 18,920 (host: Rockport Blitz)
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a8/Kohl_Center_hockey.jpg/800px-Kohl_Center_hockey.jpg

HarborView Center. Cap: 15,108 (host: Lake Porter City Hawks)
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f2/VWA-IceHockey1.JPG/120px-VWA-IceHockey1.JPG

SaxerDome. Cap: 20,900 (host: SaxerVilla Kings)
Note: For Semifinals and Finals, capacity will be 50,000, as the SaxerDome can seat 85,000 for football, but for hockey the but the upper 2 levels are closed. For the senis and Finals, only the upper level will be closed.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/12/2006_WCHA_Final_Five.jpg/120px-2006_WCHA_Final_Five.jpg

(ooc: Maybe i should ahve posted these in my bid....lol too late now i guess)

The coaching staff gathered for a meeting, poring over the results in the group.

"Very, very low-scoring affairs. Maybe they were tentative or jet-lagged or both."

"At least the two teams we need to worry about had a tie."

"Indeed."

Craig Gilbert slipped another piece of chewing gum into his mouth. "Bloody hell, CH Outineau had to get eliminated one day after the deadline for registering players. We could use Jeanne on the powerplay. In fact, we could use Jeanne, period."

"You're slobbering on the teamsheet," his assistant pointed out, "you shouldn't chew so many pieces at the same time."

"It's not my fault you got weak jaw muscles."

THE ROCKET REPORT

PRACTICE A PREMIUM

Ourseville, Septentrionia- With so many teams concentrated in such a small area, finding quality practice time has become difficult for several teams, and Newmanistan is no exception. There is a time schedule set at Arena 1093 for the nations to use the rink in the morning, but it often means a ridiculous morning skate time. “Septentrionia took the ideal morning skate time, and we were low on the pecking order, so it was like 5 or 6 am for us,” said equipment manager John Kinsella, “And for me as an equipment manager, that means I have to be here by like 3am. Hockey players are used to waking up early, but that’s a little ridiculous.” The solution? Well, just don’t practice at the arena, as Kinsella explains, “We checked around and are driving 20 minutes to get to a local university which is letting us use their rink for a small fee, which we glad to put up. It’s not ideal, but it works, plus they allow us to use their workout facilities for one hour prior to them opening it up to the campus.” So, has it all worked out? “We’ve worked out a system that we can work with, at least. We don’t have to wake up at crazy hours, and it might actually be a benefit in that unlike the teams practicing at the arena in the morning under tight time constraints, we can basically do as we please and take as long as coach Curtis needs to go through what he wants to get done in the session. The players have begun to get comfortable with the system.”

We’ll see how it all works out. After getting a hard fought tie with the hosts in their World Cup of Hockey debut, the Rockets are now set to battle with Kolanderaz, another nation making their first appearance in the tournament. The Eagles were shut out by Taeshan in their debut, by the score of 1-0. Expect Newmanistan to play in a similar style as they did to the hosts in the opener, with a tight checking defensive style utilizing that neutral zone trap that we all know and love. We’ve been told by people working at Arena 1093, that approximately 5500 tickets were sold to people with a Newmanistanian address for this game. Which isn’t too much of a surprise, since this really the first chance for our supporters to see the team since obviously the Septentrionians filled the place for our first game.

Le courrier international, 10 mars 2009 (10-3-9, if you get the joke)

Other arenas available: myth or reality?

The Newmanistanians have raised an issue about this World Cup of Hockey: Are there any other arenas in Septentrionia beside the two used for the World Cup? "Of course", says René Lajoie, president of the Association Septentrionienne de Hockey. "Septentrionia is a hockey nation, so it's quite obvious that there are other arenas in the nation. The only reason they're not being used for the World Cup proper is that they are too small to host many people." He also added that "Septentrionian arenas were built with intimacy in mind, so usual capacities of arenas are between 3,000 and 6,000 even for professional clubs." M. Lajoie did not add informations on where teams can get to practice, but we, at Le Courrier International, found an exhaustive list of arenas in the two regions where games are being held. Here are a few of them:

Ourseville:
- Centre Universitaire Jean-Tremblay (Université d'Ourseville)
- Forum d'Ourseville (Home of Club Athlétique Ourseville)
- Aréna Municipal d'Ourseville (Home of Union d'Ourseville)
- Aréna Richard-Renommée (Neighbourhood arena of Quartier Sud-de-la-Rivière)
- Aréna Municipal 1 (Neighbourhood arena of Vieux-Ourseville-Résidences)

Septentrionalis:
- Colisée National (Home of Septentrionalis HC)
- Auditorium Nordique (Université Nationale à Septentrionalis)
- Complexe Sportif Roger-Lamy (Neighbourhood arena of Quartier-Nord)
- Aréna Ducharme (Neighbourhood arena of Quartier-Centre)

Of course, international readers, there are others, but these are the main arenas in both regions

The Albrecht Herald Online>Sport>Other>In Brief>Really In Brief>Briefest as Brief Can Be

If C&M get the best result of Matchday 2 and nobody notices, did it actually happen? The Blue Hard Vulcanised Rubber Discs pulled off their best ever competitive international result in Septentrionalis this afternoon, with a dominating 3-0 victory over Pablicosta.

From a neutral perspective it was an uninspiring clash, with Braga Naval’s outfit showing little to suggest that they can avoid a record approaching a 0-0-8 after an insipid display. After keeping it tight during the opening session, some slack Pablicostan defending was punished by the more experienced Candelariasian outfit and on 22.30 captain Xavier Deadman struck to open the scoring.

It was all over bar the fighting – and even that was pretty lacklustre – by the thirty-fourth minute, once C&M had been granted a double power play, apparently, and Chris Gerard had put in two penalty efforts. Ocean Madiga, the oldest player on the ice, pulled off two quick saves from Jeff Finnerty in the forty-ninth minute to leave the Pablicostans with little practical hope of rescuing the opening fixture.

Keith Fisher, one of a record fifteen travelling hockey supporters from the Candelarias, told the Herald Online that he would be celebrating through to the small hours. “But we’re realistic,” he added, “we’re better than the Pablicostans at least, but that doesn’t say much. We’ve been granted what looks like a relatively easy group, but Gwaine and Quakmybush just look a cut above, based on their game today, and Plutoni might be a bit of a massacre. Honestly; if they can sneak into the play-offs, we’d all be over the moon.”

So might TTO Sport, who could desperately do with a return on their investment. The game attracted an audience share of less than two per cent, and the station has declined its option on the second game, spokesman Andy Christos admitting that; “there’s simply no point shelling out for a game where the C&M side more than likely going to get gubbed. It’s all about the Cup of Harmony, really – if we beat Rennidan, then everyone’s going to be too busy celebrating making the final to watch this; if we loose they’ll all be drowning their sorrows. There’s just no place for ice hockey in a market like that.”

Matchday 4:

Group C:
Candelaria and Marquez 3 - 0 Plutoni
Pablicosta 3 - 1 Gwaine


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Candelaria and Marquez 2 0 0 4 6 0 6
2. Pablicosta 1 1 0 2 3 4 -1
3. Quakmybush 0 0 1 1 0 0 0
4. Gwaine 0 1 1 1 1 3 -2
5. Plutoni 0 1 0 0 0 3 -3


Group D:
Septentrionia 2 - 7 Kelssek
Newmanistan 0 - 2 Kolanderaz


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Kelssek 1 0 0 2 7 2 5
2. Taeshan 1 0 0 2 1 0 1
3. Kolanderaz 1 1 0 2 2 1 1
4. Septentrionia 0 1 1 1 3 8 -5
5. Newmanistan 0 1 1 1 1 3 -2

OOC: 7 goals? O.o

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/kelchek/media/etnierfp.png

Kelssek downs hosts 7-2 in World Cup opener

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/kelchek/wcoh6-1.jpg


OURSEVILLE -- The home crowd was boisterous, loud and proud as Kelssek took to the ice for its first fixture of the 6th World Cup of Hockey.

But how quickly a terrible silence descended as Kelssek began its demolition of Septentrionia 7-2 in a freewheeling display of skill and offensive potency, with captain Neville Keanes put in a four-point performance in a rout that sees Kelssek firmly setting out its case as favourites for the title.

If Kelssek were suffering for those missing due to the club-country tug-of-war that marked the lead-up to this opening tie, it wasn't much in evidence in this game. And while the hosts will not be the sternest test the team will face, this victory nonetheless sets a good kind of momentum going, as general manager Craig Gilbert targets the trophy.

Gary Bavarillo opened the scoring just 4 minutes into the game, jamming it in as the forwards employed a crash-the-net strategy in the scrappy opening period. Then Jason Ingram tipped a wrister from Neville Keanes into the top corner with Jacques Faucher in the box for high sticking, but the hosts kept it close with Vincent Deschamps beating Benoit Laharrague, the roar of the crowd cutting off the announcement of one minute remaining in the first period.

It was in the middle frame that Kelssek broke out. Neville Keanes fought his way into the slot and backhanded the puck into the net to make it 3-1, and Shaun O'Leary scored just 19 seconds later to silence the crowd. Keanes earned a third point setting up Colin Calderwood for a blistering one-timer from the high slot.

Kelssek began the third period by letting in a powerplay goal, but the devastating response put the result beyond all doubt as Keanes slammed the puck past Rémy Charpie to cap off a first-star performance, and Jason Ingram got one of his own after a broken play off a face-off left him with a 2-on-1 opportunity. Choosing to shoot, he used his speed and placed the puck just beyond the goalie's glove.

The win put Kelssek on top of the group ahead of Taeshan on goal difference. Kelssek's next game is tomorrow against Kolanderaz.

Kenavt Team Stuns
First Two Games are Unbelievable

Breaking Story by Georgia Kyteghor

Unexpectedly, Team Kenavt broke out of the starting lines earlier this week with an incredible tie with defending champion Prux, 1-1, and a win over Rose and the Turkomans, 4-2. Coach Selville's lines worked out great after critism from the blogosphere.

In Game 1, Prux's goalie Clidiotlump stopped 37 shots as Kenavt unveiled their sharpshooters to the international world. Possibly the most underrated player in the tourney, defenceman Kris Letang zipped a slapshot from inside the blue line. Deflected by Prux defenseman Punphblob, the shot dribbled over and inbetween Clidiotlump's legs. It was a freak goal. The second goal of the game in the third period was a relief to our team, tying up the game (see what I mean here (http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/hnic/coachscorner/2008/04/bidding_adieu_to_the_flames.html). Fastforward to 3:15 in the clip) Earlier in the second, Prux forward Mormcheese rang a shot off the crossbar, hitting our goalie Roy Ike in the back, and into the net.

In the last moments, on a Kenavt 5-on-4, Prux Jongbum pokechecked the puck from a lazy Hall Sprint and went down the ice. Sprint caught up (living up to his name) at the blue line and tripped Jongbum. Winning a penalty shot, Jongbum went down the ice and shot for the right lower corner. Kicking out his pad and making the puck narrowly miss and hit the post, Ike perhaps won the game for Kenavt. The 3 Stars were Roy Ike, Clidiotlump, and Kris Letang.

Game 2 was a coaster versus Rose and the Turkomans. By the way, a curious thing about their sweaters is that no names are on them. Since the program did not contain names, it was hard to identify players. After two goals by their captain, Kenavt stormed back in the third by a genuine hat trick by Alexandre Quaigon and a tally by Styx Askton. Gerber Cavtype was hit by one of the Turkoman D-men hard, and is reported to have a minor concussion. He is probable for the next game, due to the week-long break inbetween games. According to Coach Selville during the postgame press conference, "he will most likely play on the fourth line sparingly. After that, he will be bumped up to his regular position", which is as center on the 2nd forward line. Rose and the Turkomans beat Prux 3-1 in their only game previously.

Be ready at 7pm tomorrow for live coverage of Kenavt's game against the Elves Security Forces-the biggest test for Team Kenavt. The Forces has been widely predicted to win Kenavt's group, although our team is currently ahead. ESF won against Green Wombat, 2-1, for their only game of the round robin so far. They are in second, and a win would put them in first. A tie, which would be considered successful by Team Kenavt's coaching staff, would keep Kenavt in first by a point.

Group B Standings:

1. Kenavt 1 0 1 3 5 3 2
2. Elves Security Forces 1 0 0 2 2 1 1
3. Kose and the Turkomans 1 1 0 2 5 5 0
4. Prux 0 0 1 1 1 1 0
5. Green Wombat 0 2 0 0 2 5 -3

Here's an updated schedule:

T Game 1: Prux 1 Kenavt 1
W Game 2: Kose and the Turkomans 2 Kenavt 4
Game 3: Elves Security Forces vs. Kenavt
Game 4: Kenavt vs. Green Wombat
Game 5: BYE
Game 6: BYE-Friendlies
Game 7: Kenavt vs. Prux
Game 8: Kenavt vs. Kose and the Turkomans
Game 9: Kenavt vs. Elves Security Forces
Game 10: Green Wombat vs. Kenavt
Game 11: BYE

Ugh... Don Cherry fan: NO RP BONUS FOR YOU!

No, I'm kidding: everybody in Canada outside of Québec has to like him. That's how it should be. Anyway, MD5 results are here:

Group A:
United Hertzel 2 - 4 Lovisa
Steel Butterfly 1 - 0 Qazox


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Steel Butterfly 2 0 1 5 4 2 2
2. Lovisa 1 0 1 3 5 3 2
3. Qazox 1 1 0 2 4 1 3
4. Jeruselem 0 1 1 1 2 6 -4
5. United Hertzel 0 2 1 1 5 8 -3


Group B:
Kose and the Turkomans 3 - 2 Prux
Kenavt 0 - 4 Elves Security Forces


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Elves Security Forces 2 0 0 4 6 1 5
2. Kose and the Turkomans 2 1 0 4 8 7 1
3. Kenavt 1 1 1 3 5 7 -2
4. Prux 0 1 1 1 3 4 -1
5. Green Wombat 0 2 0 0 2 5 -3

Ugh... Don Cherry fan: NO RP BONUS FOR YOU!

No, I'm kidding: everybody in Canada outside of Québec has to like him. That's how it should be. Anyway, MD5 results are here:

Group A:
United Hertzel 2 - 4 Lovisa
Steel Butterfly 1 - 0 Qazox


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Steel Butterfly 2 0 1 5 4 2 2
2. Lovisa 1 0 1 3 5 3 2
3. Qazox 1 1 0 2 4 1 3
4. Jeruselem 0 1 1 1 2 6 -4
5. United Hertzel 0 2 1 1 5 8 -3


Group B:
Kose and the Turkomans 3 - 2 Prux
Kenavt 0 - 4 Elves Security Forces


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Elves Security Forces 2 0 0 4 6 1 5
2. Kose and the Turkomans 2 1 0 4 8 7 1
3. Kenavt 1 1 1 3 5 7 -2
4. Prux 0 1 1 1 3 4 -1
5. Green Wombat 0 2 0 0 2 5 -3


Jeez. My bad. Sorry. Is it what he did during the MON-BOS series? Or something else?

By the way, I thought you were gonna give me that win versus ESF. No win, no money! :D

ESF Gives Kenavt Shellacking

Dream Season Over?

Breaking Story by Georgia Kyteghor

Septentrionia-The final results have come in-in Team Kenavt's latest game versus the top team Elves Security Forces ended in a 4-0 defeat.

Coach Selville was not happy with this result. In the postgame conference, he noted, "We should have done better. A couple rang right off the post, and then there was that one incident...."

The incident in question was a goal ruled-out by referees. Winger Andrew da Vincho sent it into the middle, where it hit centerman Kyle Brisingr's skate and went in. The goal was initially called as one, but ESF captain Amras Nénharma appealed and it went upstairs to the replay booth. After a couple of replays, it was apparent that Brisingr intentionally (and possibly maliciously) kicked the puck in. So ESF goalie Arminas Carnesîr preserved his shutout.

OOC: More later-go to go.

[OOC: HELL YEAH!]

Drake:
“Hello I’m William Drake and welcome to OSN Primetime©, Orion’s own Sports Network and home of the FIRST PLACE ORION FENRIRS! Joining me today, as usual, are my partners in crime John Stone and Sydney Fry.”

Stone:
“What did I tell you! Who picked Orion to be first place? Who picked them to beat Qazox? Me, I tell ya. Me!”

Fry:
“I’m sorry, John, but I believe I win this game though. I told you defense, and not only was Orion’s defense what won them this game because of their defensive play, but even better…it was a defender who scored the game’s only goal on a break away!”

Drake:
“I’m sure the lot of you are dying to get to get to the game, so here goes nothing.”

Highlights begin…

Drake:
“Qazox center Jim Kirchner won the opening face-off, starting what would be a game-long habit of playing on Orion’s side of the ice.”

Stone:
“Yes. The shots-on-goal difference was somewhat ridiculous. Qazox, known for their offensive power, shot the puck 56 times, 38 of which reached rookie goalie Nikitin. Orion only had 17 total all game.”

Fry:
“However I think the numbers say it best. 18 times, Orion defenders put their sticks or their bodies in front of the puck, helping out their rookie goaltender.”

Drake:
“Also notable is the extreme lack of fighting and penalties present in tonight’s game.”

Stone:
“I think both sides recognized how close the game truly was, and both sides were also professional enough to not make any mistakes.”

Fry:
“To cut a long story short, though, Arkady Nikitin had the day of his life, stopping the Qazoxian onslaught all the way into the last few minutes of the 3rd quarter.”

Drake:
“Yes, phenom and team lead scorer Adrian Winters got flagged for hooking with 3:09 remaining, one of only 4 total penalties on the day.”

Stone:
“With the whole game being dominated by Qazox’s offense, and the fact that Orion would be under-manned until only one minute remained, things began to look bleak for the Fenrirs.”

Fry:
“However, James Julian had a different idea…”

”Kirchner to Harding at the blue line. Harding hesitates, passes back to Kirchner. Vasiliev approaching fast. Kirchner to Guercio…INTERCEPTED BY JAMES JULIAN! Julian is flying down the ice! No one’s going to catch him! It’s only him and the goalie! Julian shoots high…HE SCORES! With only 1 minute 30 left the Orion Fenrirs are up 1-0!”

Drake:
“The local fans went crazy after that goal, and you could almost hear the wind sucked out of the Qazox team.”

Stone:
“There was definitely a shift in energy. Qazox never got another shot on goal, and when Winters got back on the ice with 1:09 remaining, the game was all but over.”

Fry:
“Defense wins championships. It’s always said. It always applies.”

Drake:
“Yes, I do believe that tonight the moniker proved quite true. I’m William Drake,”

Stone:
“I’m John Stone,”

Together:
“And this is OSN Primetime©!”

Fry:
“Goodnight, Orion.”

http://209.85.48.8/237/117/upload/p701891.png

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and joining me tonight are Patrick Campbell and Norris Smythe, and Steel Butterfly upset Qazox tonight, 1-0, on a shorthanded goal late by the Fenrirs' James Julian with 90 seconds left in the game. Norris is this loss a big deal for the Pheonix or is it just one game that got away?

Smythe:
"It is a big deal. This game showed why Brian Caulder is an important part of the squad. He missed the game and it showed. The team lacked that extra oomph on the power play and it cost them."

Campbell:
"Overall the team played great, but I have to give it up to Steel butterfly's Arkady Nikitin. The rookie just stood on his head all night and he was the real reason why the Pheonix lost."

Wales:
"So looking at the next game on the schedule, is Lovisa, who is second in the group with a 1-0-1 record. So what do the Pheonix have to do to win this upcoming match, Patrick?"

Campbell:
"Adam, if Lovisa has a goalie like Julian, then they could be in trouble."

Smythe:
"Brian Caulder will be back and if I know Oscar Maresca, then the Pheonix will come out very fast and very hard, and that could spell trouble for Lovisa."

Wales:
"Ok. For those of you that either missed the game or tuned in late, here is the scoring summary for the game:"



TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 0 0 0 0
S. B. 0 0 1 1

FIRST PERIOD
Steel Butterfly- Penalty Shurik Sidorov (Delay of Game) 2:18
SECOND PERIOD
Qazox- Penalty (tripping- Hardin) 1:08
Qazox- Bench Penalty (Too many men on ice served by Kirchner)- 13:08
THIRD PERIOD
Steel Butterfly- Penalty Adrian Winters (Hooking) 16:51
Steel Butterfly- GOAL (SH) James Julian (unassisted) 18:30.

TOTAL SHOTS
TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 14 12 12 38
S. B. 5 4 8 17
POWERPLAY
Qazox- 0/2
Steel Butterfly- 0/2

“Coach, how proud of your team are you right now?” A reporter asked from the horde gathered in front of the interview table.

Coach Jack Kiril smiled, contemplating his answer. He, along with Center Captain Alexei Zeitzev, Winger Assistant Captain Adrian Winters, Defensemen Assistant Captain James Julian, and Rookie Goalie Arkady Nikitin sat facing the media in their expensive but unkempt suits and ties, their hair still wet from post-game showers. Kiril’s smile seemed contagious. Within seconds all five men were grinning from ear to ear. It was hard to hide their excitement.

“Listen, people,” Coach Kiril said, trying to calm everyone down. Even the media was excited. “I think everyone in this room knows how much this win meant to this team. Tying Lovisa, the 6th ranked team, was one thing, but beating Qazox, the 2nd ranked team and champs just two years ago proved us as a serious threat to take the cup. Confidence can carry a team a long way, and you cannot get a bigger boost than what we got tonight.”

“Arkady, how does it feel to get your first shutout in international play?”

“I wish it would have come a game before so I could enjoy it a bit,” the rookie goalie joked. “Seriously though, it just feels good to win this game, and we needed a shutout to do so, so a shutout’s what we got. The habit of giving up early goals that I apparently had developed needed to end and it needed to end fast. I didn’t want us to have to play from behind again.” He patted James Julian on the back. “You can thank our defense for this as well. They’re the best guys I’ve ever played behind.”

“Speaking of you, James, how does it feel to be the hero?”

“It just feels good to know I’m doing my part,” Julian replied, still grinning ridiculously large. “Everyone seated at this table has contributed to this 2-0-1 run in a large way, and everyone’s contributions in the locker room cannot be overlooked either. I’m just glad that I earned my way out here in front of you all. I always knew I could play on this stage, and I’m glad the Empire and Coach Kiril have finally given me the chance.”

“The only real criticism against your team, Coach, is your depth. Do you find it worrisome that no one other than first-line starters have registered a point?”

“Not at all,” Coach Kiril scoffed. “I don’t care if Adrian here scores every single one of our goals, or if Audry Cole, our 3rd string goalie, does. As long as pucks are being put into the net, they could be shot by the janitors for all I care.”

“Captain Zeitzev, it became well-known this year that while you’re getting older, you are still quite capable of playing at a very high level...”

“Well thank you,” Zeitzev interrupted, chuckling.

“…however on your club team your role has changed from a front-line scorer to more of a mentor and passer to younger players. Is that your role on this team as well, or is it a bit different?”

“I think my age and experience inspire others during practice and in the locker room,” Zeitzev responded. “But on international ice Arkady’s played as many games as I have. We’re all new at this, but at the same time it’s hockey, and I’m not rookie to the sport.”

“Alexei’s no grandpa,” Adrian told the reporter. “He’s as fast and as strong as anyone out there, and smarter than most. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”

“Adrian, speaking of you, you were both the regular season and playoff MVP of last season, leading the league in both goals scored and points attained. How have you managed to transfer that level of dominance to the World Cup of Hockey?”

“Really, as Alexei said, hockey is hockey,” Adrian replied, shrugging. “The competition is much stronger, and teams have far more depth, but other than that you still have to get the puck into the net.”

“Coach, I know following the opening tie to Lovisa you were somewhat upset about the old rules being used in this tournament, as opposed to the updated set that was implemented in Orion hockey a few seasons ago. Does it still bother you?”

“Yes, and no,” Coach Kiril replied. “It’s rather strange for regulation to end in a tie and to just walk back into the locker room. It’s like the game never ended, like there was no conclusion. Typically when that happens the players get all pumped up and ready for overtime, or better, a shootout. They simply feel a bit let down. If you ask me if I think we would have won that game against Lovisa had there been a shootout, I’d tell you yes, I think we would. Have I accepted that these are going to be the rules of the tournament? Yes I have.” He paused. “On that note, that’ll be all for tonight. The players need their rest. Have a good night.”

With that, the stars of Orion stood and walked off stage, as cameras and flashbulbs erupted around them.

Bob: What's up with the offensive line?

Brian: What do you mean?

Bob: They can't shoot worth a damn now.

Brian: Might be the high-protein diet I have them on.

Bob: High-protein diet? .

Brian: Yeah, they all are on a all-tuna diet right now.

Bob: All-tuna?

Brian: Yeah, it's high in omega-fatty acids and protein and it helps with intelligence.

Bob: Is this the tuna you have been feeding them?

Brian: Yep.

Bob: WHY IS IT MIXED WITH MAYONAISE?

Brian: It's tuna, I always make tuna with mayo in it.

Bob: How did you get this job anyway? Mayo makes walruses groggy!

Brian: You know my uncle is in charge of the zoo.

Bob: GOD, how the heck did we even win this thing last time?

Plutoni national ice hockey blog: WCoH 6, Matchday 4

...Okay then.

After winning 3-0 against Pablicosta, Candelaria And Marquez repeated the same scoreline against...er, the other team beginning with P.

It was as bad as it seemed, with a goal a period for the third seeds-Plutoni never looked quite out of it, but the game just slowly slipped away. The first goal came nine minutes in, when captain Xavier Deadman scored off a pass from defender Yesterday Goldberg. With three minutes to play in the second period, Tom Cortés unleashed a shot past a hopelessly out of position Benny Bracket. Plutoni mustered the only thing close to a rally near the beginning of the third, with Peter Pilcrow unleashing several shots on goal, but Ocean Madiga stopped them and the Blue Hard Vulcanised Rubber Discs quickly counter attacked, John Croy setting up Oliver Needham for the third goal.

Luckily, hockey championships are as a generalization interminable, so Plutoni will have plenty of time to rally back. (Or we'll have plenty of time to wonder why we sent this team...) They play Gwaine next.

Comments:

1. mrdude: plutoni sux y can't we have a real team??
2. icebaby: [1] Enlightening as always, Mr. Dude.
C&M to take second, I think, Plutoni can still win it. Their climate's built for field hockey, and it shows.
3. Official_Blog: ...People are actually reading this thing?
4. mrdude: lol
5. Official_Blog: Right, time to instate that ten-character minimum requirement.

Matchday 6 results:

Group C:
Pablicosta 0 - 2 Quakmybush
Gwaine 5 - 2 Plutoni


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Candelaria and Marquez 2 0 0 4 6 0 6
2. Quakmybush 1 0 1 3 2 0 2
3. Gwaine 1 1 1 3 6 5 1
4. Pablicosta 1 2 0 2 3 6 -3
5. Plutoni 0 2 0 0 2 8 -6


Group D:
Newmanistan 4 - 4 Taeshan
Kolanderaz 0 - 1 Kelssek



P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Kelssek 2 0 0 4 8 2 6
2. Taeshan 1 0 1 3 5 4 1
3. Kolanderaz 1 2 0 2 2 2 0
4. Newmanistan 0 1 2 2 5 7 -2
5. Septentrionia 0 1 1 1 3 8 -5

Matchday 7 results:

Group A:
Steel Butterfly 1 - 2 Jeruselem
Qazox 2 - 1 Lovisa


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Steel Butterfly 2 1 1 5 5 4 1
2. Qazox 2 1 0 4 6 2 4
3. Lovisa 1 1 1 3 6 5 1
4. Jeruselem 1 1 1 3 4 7 -3
5. United Hertzel 0 2 1 1 5 8 -3


Group B:
Kenavt 0 - 0 Green Wombat
Elves Security Forces 1 - 0 Prux


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Elves Security Forces 3 0 0 6 7 1 6
2. Kose and the Turkomans 2 1 0 4 8 7 1
3. Kenavt 1 1 2 4 5 7 -2
4. Prux 0 2 1 1 3 5 -2
5. Green Wombat 0 2 1 1 2 5 -3

Oh for Christ's sake...2 RP's too

Plutoni national ice hockey blog: WCoH 6, Matchday 6

At least we scored?

Indeed, Plutoni scored two goals in its game against Gwaine. Let's look at those?

The first came from Peter Pilcrow early in the second period, who outskated Gwaine defender Joni Pitk. The second came late in the third period, when Arthur Ampersand sent a pass to Stanley Space, who shot past the goalie, Mark Biris. The impressive Biris was more tired than he perhaps should have been: Plutoni mustered very few shots on goal.

And we still lost by three. Again.

That's right. After a blistering three-goal assault in the first period, Gwaine kept it down to one in each of the other two. But after Erik Letcavalier, RJ Utlens, and Jhonny Lupul had scored, the damage was done. Scotty Hart scored in the second period, Letcavalier in the third.

Plutoni fall to 0-2-0: the only team comparably bad, Green Wombat, have only conceded five goals over its two games. Plutoni will next play second seeds Quakmybush.

Comments:
1. seb: Other teams might be psychologically defeated after giving up three goals in the first period. This team was psychologically defeated before we started.
2. freebored: "we"? i'm sure not represented by those luzers
3. icebaby: I think you'll find you have more in common with them than you think, freebored.
4. ScoreBot: Kenavt 0 - 0 Green Wombat
I try to post scores that will interest people who read this blog. Click here to give me feedback!
5. ScoreBet: Can Plutoni hold Quakmybush to single digits? Wager your lottery tickets today!
I try to predict scores that will shortly appear on this blog. Click here to give me money!

[OOC: Great…I was beaten by a team that has yet to even post a ROSTER. So much for RP bonus.]

Drake:
“Hello I’m William Drake and welcome to OSN Primetime©, Orion’s own Sports Network. Joining me today are OBC’s Sydney Fry and my partner John Stone.”

Stone:
“I’m just going to quote Adrian Winters, ‘Tonight, we played like shit.’”

Fry:
“It seems that after going 2-0-1, including a tie versus the 6th ranked team and a win versus the 2nd, the Fenrir’s team head was just a little too big.”

Stone:
“They played like morons. There were a total of seven penalties for Orion, four of them for fighting.”

Fry:
“Yeah…that’s just not something you can do.”

Stone:
“Both of Jerusalem’s goals were 5-on-3 matchups! Orion deserved to lose this game.”

Drake:
“Defenders Cole Bistok and Artem Vasiliev were both ejected for major penalties as a result of fighting with Jeruselem players.”

Fry:
“One redeeming thing coming from the game is that 4th line center Nikolai Winogradski scored a goal in the third period off of a Taras Talas assist, in an attempt to start a rally. It was the first such goal from someone other than a first-line player.”

Stone:
“That’s only because the first three lines were miserable. Again the only player with a good head on his shoulders seems to be James Julian. Winters is too hot-headed, having two minor penalties himself, and Zeitzev is past his prime. Chris Mitchell has been a ghost in this whole series, not even racking up an assist yet, much less a goal.”

Drake:
“One thing notable is that no one is blaming Nikitin for the loss.”

Stone:
“5-on-3 goals aren’t his fault. There’s only so much one man can do.”

Fry:
“This regression is just upsetting, but perhaps it’s just what the Fenrirs need. They need to know that this isn’t going to be easy by any means.”

Stone:
“They could have learned that in a tie. No one needs a loss. We’re lucky to still be in first place.”

Drake:
“But that wraps up the first round of the group stage. The next two days include a bye and a friendly day, so Orion has more than enough time to practice and draw up a gameplan in time to face Lovisa again. I’m William Drake,”

Stone:
“I’m John Stone,”

Together:
“And this is OSN Primetime©!”

Fry:
“Goodnight, Orion.”

http://209.85.48.8/237/117/upload/p701896.png

The practice rink they'd found was small and echoey. Just the normal chatter between the players was amplified and echoed through the building, making it difficult for Craig Gilbert's tactical musings to reach the ears of the coaching staff.

"The last match was far too close. We really wasted powerplay opportunities." he said.

"We outplayed them, though," shouted his assistant, "anything seems close after Septentrionia."

"What about Septentrionia?"

"I said it seems close after that!" he said, putting his hands up about an inch from each other. "CLOSE!"

"Yes, I said that, it was too close."

The assistant shook his head. "Never mind."

"1-0 doesn't count as close to you?"

"NEVER MIND!"

"Defensively, we did well. Of course, it wasn't that difficult a challenge against that team." another of the coaches half-yelled.

"So we need the powerplay to work better. Any ideas?"

The goaltending coach started drawing something on the board.

"Mike?" prompted Craig.

"Uh? Oh, don't mind me, I'm just doodling."

Craig looked at the board to see the faceoff circles turned into the eyes of a smiley face.

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/kelchek/tactics-smiley.gif

"Give me that."

"But it's sure to be a winning strategy, boss!"

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and joining me tonight are Patrick Campbell and Norris Smythe, and Qazox defeated Lovisa, 2-1 in a game that saw only one penalty and very few shots on net as each side's defense just played full tilt. Norris, other than the very late goal scored when Sergio Bazer was pulled for an extra-attacker, Jaques Maaten looked once again almost unbeatable.

Smythe:
"True, but the real key was the return of Brian Caulder to the line-up after missing the Steel Butterfly game. He scored twice on the powerplay set up by the double-minor by Looney."

Campbell:
"But I was a little worried, as other than the powerplay goals in the first, Qazox just looked tired the remainder of the match, and luckily Lovisa couldn't take advantage."

Wales:
"So looking at the next game on the schedule, is United Hertzel, who is currently last in the group. Is there a chance of another upset Patrick?"

Campbell:
"No, the Steel Butterfly game was a combination of lackadaisical play by the Pheonix and inspired play by the Fenrirs. Qazox does not make the same mistakes twice and they should dominate this match."

Smythe:
"The Phoenix have been on cruise-control the last two games, but that ends on Sunday. Anything less than a 5-0 win would be a shock."

Wales:
"Ok. For those of you that either missed the game or tuned in late, here is the scoring summary for the game:"



TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 2 0 0 2
Lovisa 0 0 1 1

FIRST PERIOD
Lovisa- Tim Looney (Cross-Checking, Double Minor)- 7:12
Qazox- GOAL (PP) Brian Caulder (Leon Guercio)- 7:46
Qazox- GOAL (PP) Brian Caulder (2) (unassisted)- 10:52
SECOND PERIOD
NONE
THIRD PERIOD
Lovisa- GOAL (EA) Jon Lundqvist (Tomas Galberg, Joel Barlett) 19:53.
**Note: EA= Extra Attacker.
TOTAL SHOTS
TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 11 9 7 27
Lovisa 2 2 6 10
POWERPLAY
Qazox- 2/2
Lovisa- 0/0

Bob: GODDAMN ESF!

Brian: No kidding. I still think it should be a penalty to throw octopi onto the ice.

Bob: Especially if it is the other team's coach! i can't believe the ref allowed that shit.

Brian: so now what? we're 0-2-1 and we've almost reached the halfway point.

Bob: I dunno. I think we need to stop spoiling this team.

Brian: Huh?

Bob: Well we treated them like crap last time, and they won the whole damn thing, maybe we need to do more of that.

Brian: I dunno... maybe we could, just as long as they don't get hurt, i mean what else could go wrong?

Joe Baggs WCoH Blog.


THIS IS THE WORST TEAM EVER!

the wombats only allowed 11 shots and had 45... AND IT STILL WAS a 0-0 draw!! and 0-fer-8 on the power play? What a load of shit this team is. Now they have to face off against the defending champs? They'll get beaten 50-0, I can smell it. I'm too fucking pissed off to write any more.

"I always knew those Septentrionia folk were lazy, they bloody forgot to use our correct nation name. See, they still have us listed down as Elves Security Forces. It's been fourteen blasted years since Valanora formed, you'd think they would of gotten it right by now!!!" Findecáno Amandil now complained.

Once again, his wife attempted to cool the hot-headed elf with reason, "Well darling, you can't really blame them. Afterall, everyone on the roster is either from the ESF or Vyinta. And as you very well know, Vyinta was always a colony of the ESF before Valanora formed, so I doubt they would recognize their independence, or much less a citizen being a Vyintanese over Elven."

"That doesn't matter one bit Larien, the point is, we're no longer the Elves Security Forces, we're Valanora. As such, I would like it if they would use the proper nation title whilst listing us on the programs and such."

"You would find anything to complain about wouldn't you Findecáno. Elune would be so dissapointed in you if she didn't have a whole species to look after. Instead, I have to do it. So I want you to shut up and either be happy with getting to watch your hockey, or turn it off and do without. I could use some help around here, it's been weeks since you've done your share of the work around here, and months since you've prayed. You're lucky Elune is such a merciful goddess, or you'd be struck down where you sit.

Frustrated and annoyed, Findecáno mumbled under his breath, "Dang women. Can't live with them, can't live without them."

Kenavt Free Press
Kenavt Does OK versus Green Wombat, 0-0 Tie

Selville: We're doing great!
Breaking story by Georgia Gypeqwerty

QURESVILLE, SEPTENTRIONIA-Kenavt tied the Green Wombat Wolves yesterday night in Septentrionia in the World Cup of Hockey. A 0-0 tie was made more interesting by the 8 powerplays for Green Wombat, and only 11 shots. Team Kenavt threw the puck at the net, hoping for rebounds so much, that they had 45 shots-but no goal. Paul Nutt was sensational for the Wombats, getting the first star-and the shutout. Roy Ike was second star with another shutout-with Hall Sprint grabbing the third star due to his play on short-handed situations with the Wolves.

Coach Selville admitted after the game that a slight problem might have happened on their strategy of just throwing pucks at the net: "It usually works. Today, Paul Nutt was hot. Their defensemen Frank Ernst and Wesley Riddel were great. We just had some bad luck-except for when we were short-handed."

Currently, in their group, they are fourth-tied with Rose and the Turkomans, a team they defeated, with four points. Rose and the Turkomans are 2 and 1, Kenavt is 1-2-1.

Either way, Kenavt is preparing for their next game after they get a bye versus Prux. The first game they played they tied, and Prux is the defending champion. Be sure to tune in to the game on KMN Sports!


T Game 1: Prux 1 Kenavt 1
W Game 2: Kose and the Turkomans 2 Kenavt 4
L Game 3: Elves Security Forces 4 Kenavt 2
T Game 4: Kenavt 0 Green Wombat 0
Game 5: BYE
Game 6: BYE-Friendlies
Game 7: Kenavt vs. Prux
Game 8: Kenavt vs. Kose and the Turkomans
Game 9: Kenavt vs. Elves Security Forces
Game 10: Green Wombat vs. Kenavt
Game 11: BYE

OOC: By the way, I'm interested in playing a friendly-if anyone else is.

OOC: By the way, I'm interested in playing a friendly-if anyone else is.

OOC: I'm down. You want to play me?

Sure, why not.

WE HAVE A FRIENDLY HERE!

Can we have it take place in a different country, do you think? We would just need Sept to score it.

Sister Marsha faxed the following to the Cup of Hockey HQ after finding the roster folded up in her bible ...

Jeruselem's Hockey team aka the Donkeys

Head Coach
Sister Marsha (WC40 Assistant Coach)

Goal
1 Bill Mashem
2 Robert Slammer

Defence
1 Joe Whacket
2 Jim Rammer
3 Reese Headthumper
4 Jacob slicer
5 Conan Barbarian

Forwards
1 Bigge Hitter
2 Aye Lyke Violense
3 Eggy Thump
4 Kane Bashir
5 Koss HeadSwipe
6 Fite Ingawound DeWorld
7 Russell Crowe
8 Breakem Nowwe
9 Ruff Howseman

OOC Numbers are line counters not jersey numbers

Sure, why not.

WE HAVE A FRIENDLY HERE!

Can we have it take place in a different country, do you think? We would just need Sept to score it.

Doesn't matter to me, since it really doesn't mean anything score-wise lol. I'm afraid I've just become addicted to WCoH. :)

“…rities admit that finding a home for all the infants may be a struggle.”

Bip…Bip…Bip…Bip…Bee-eep

“Well, that’s your latest news from PUCR 103.4, across the Candelarias and north-west Rushmore with Reinholdsson & Keen Monumental Masons, engravings while you wait, and I reckon now we can drop back in on Simon Manning in Septentrionalis for the second… uh… quarter? Simon?”

“Yes, thanks Ben and welcome one and all to the Centre Métropolitain for the second half of this rink hockey match between C&M and Plutoni, and as you might expect it’s not going particularly well, the uh, Blue, uh, uh, the C&M side are one-nil down from a through-puck right from the defence up to, um –”

“It’s one-zero to us, Simon”

“Uh, well yes, obviously, we being the side in blue? Yes, that would, that would make sense… Good move from Pilcrow here… no, where’s he gone? I’ve lost me train of thought… Oh, offside!”

“Really?”

“Yes, look… Literally, he’s taken the little disk right round the back! But, uh, no, no, he’s lost it now and, uh… where is it? Um, anyway, it was Xavier Deadman that put us into the lead, uh, lots of cheers from the Candelariasians in the crowd… I expect. I can’t actually say that I saw any, but maybe now that we’re out of the Harmony we might get a… few… more… Gosh, it’s awfully quick, isn’t it? Right, Caret’s, sort of, dribbling, I suppose with his… with his stick… he’s lost it now. Quite a spiky character, I’ve found, Caret, I –”

“Connor.”

“Hm?”

“Probably best if you just call him Connor.”

“Really? Alright, well it’s Guillemet on the… uh, ball, now… Named after the seabird, of course… Of the auk family. Hunted to extinction in the Candelarias of course, which is a great tragedy… ooh, what’s happened there? That’s uh, that’s Alfredsson I think, he’s been just mashed into the side wall by Degree! Oh my sweet orphans, they’re all piling in! That’s Ed Costa and he’s just absolutely laid one on Caron! Only a little, guy, of course… Oh, this is just bringing shame on the sport of rink ball! Does seem to be over now, anyway… Yesterday Goldberg has the little thingy now… Family tradition of course dating back from their arrival in the Candelarias to eschew traditional Jewish names in favour of naming their children after when they were born… Good play now from the podgy little man, Pare–”

“Perry.”

“Alright, then… Um… Who are you, anyway?”

“Barry.”

“Really? Uh, Goldberg to Tom Cortés now, shoots… Ooh, well saved by Umlaut… Cortés staring into the ‘keeper beady little eyes there… So, Barry… D’you have a surname as well, or…?”

“No.”

“Right, um… Anyway, Caron again with the disk… Of course, they’re an odd little team, these Plutonians… Very talented, clearly, but… um… Barry?”

“Yeah?”

“You’re not… y’know… from the Ministry are you?”

“Yeah.”

“Oh. Only, I’ve never met you before, and…”

“Our resources are spread pretty thin at the mo.”

“Oh. Well, if I promise to stop using their surnames…?”

“Nah.”

“So… This isn’t actually going out on air, is it?”

“Your station ‘lost’ the connection to Septentrionia about half an hour ago.”

“Oh. Thank God for that.”

Matchday 8:

Group C:
Gwaine 2 - 1 Candelaria and Marquez
Plutoni 1 - 1 Quakmybush


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Gwaine 2 1 1 5 8 6 2
2. Candelaria and Marquez 2 1 0 4 7 2 5
3. Quakmybush 1 0 2 4 3 1 2
4. Pablicosta 1 2 0 2 3 6 -3
5. Plutoni 0 2 1 1 3 9 -6


Group D:
Kolanderaz 1 - 3 Septentrionia
Kelssek 1 - 0 Taeshan


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Kelssek 3 0 0 6 9 2 7
2. Septentrionia 1 1 1 3 6 9 -3
3. Taeshan 1 1 1 3 5 5 0
4. Kolanderaz 1 3 0 2 3 5 -2
5. Newmanistan 0 1 2 2 5 7 -2

Plutoni national ice hockey blog: WCoH 6, Matchday 8

Get the point?

Plutoni sure did. A 1-1 draw with Quakmybush was its first point of the tournament: it is winless through three matches. The excitement began twelve minutes into the first period, when Plutoni took its first lead of the tournament. The captain, Colin Cent, dug out the puck from behind the net, skated forward, and mustered a remarkably accurate pass to Oswald Octothand, who blasted the puck into the five-hole. It was the first goal Quakmybush had conceded in its two-plus games.

The stress of the lead seemed to be too much for the Plutonians, however, and Quakmybush equalized in the third minute of the second period. Its first-line center passed to the right wing, who tucked the puck into the goal.

From there it was a tense defensive battle, and Plutoni's defensemen were up to the challenge: Dwayne Degree seems to have finally acclimatized to the
Centre Métropolitain, and Benny Bracket was solid enough during the third period. Ulrich Umlaut stopped twenty-one shots throughout the game, and the Quakmybush goalie seventeen.

Plutoni remain in last place in group C, and sport a worse goal differential than the three other teams with one point. They play Pablicosta, currently fourth, in the last matchday of this half.

Comments:
1. mrdude: sb u suk i lost 2 many lottery tix of course quak r defensive :upyours:
2. seb: I'm simply going to assume that refers to ScoreBet.
3. delayed_miracle: It's all about momentum: Plutoni win the next one, and they can make the playoffs at least. Draw and it's dicey. They can't afford to lose.
4. icebaby [3] "They can't afford to lose." How insightful.
5. seb [4] About 39% more insightful than most of the commentary around here.

Matchday 9:

Group A:
Qazox 2 - 2 United Hertzel
Lovisa 4 - 0 Jeruselem


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Lovisa 2 1 1 5 10 5 5
2. Qazox 2 1 1 5 8 4 4
3. Steel Butterfly 2 1 1 5 5 4 1
4. Jeruselem 1 2 1 3 4 11 -7
5. United Hertzel 0 2 2 2 7 10 -3


Group B:
Elves Security Forces 4 - 0 Kose and the Turkomans
Prux 0 - 1 Green Wombat


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Elves Security Forces 4 0 0 8 11 1 10
2. Kose and the Turkomans 2 2 0 4 8 11 -3
3. Kenavt 1 1 2 4 5 7 -2
4. Green Wombat 1 2 1 3 3 5 -2
5. Prux 0 3 1 1 3 6 -3


So far, confirmed mid-cup friendlies:
- Kenavt - Steel Butterfly @ whatever arena in Septentrionia you want to play at (look at the list I posted to choose. You may also choose one of the two arenas that are hosting this World Cup of Hockey)

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and joining me tonight are Patrick Campbell and Norris Smythe, and Qazox drew United Hertzel, 2-2 in a game that saw a very game UH team checking Qazox at every oppertunity and it paid off as Qazox pilled up 18 PIM and UH had a power play in every period. Patrick, is this a sign that Qazox may be to much of a finesse team to win the title?"

Campbell:
"I'd be worried. UH should have never been in this game for so long and it may be a sign that Qazox still hasn't yet gelled as a team."

Smythe:
"Yes it is a sign. Any other team would have sent in a bigger line-up, but not the Pheonix. They still believe that this is the QHL and that goals will be scored in bunches.."


Wales:
"So looking at the next game on the schedule, is Jeruselem, whom Qazox already have beaten. Can they repeat with a victory again?"

Smythe:
"They should, but the way this tourney is going so far, who knows."

Campbell:
"Yes, but a bit closer than the original score line."


Wales:
"Ok. For those of you that either missed the game or tuned in late, here is the scoring summary for the game:"



TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 1 0 1 2
U.H. 1 1 0 2

FIRST PERIOD
United Hertzel- Goal: (7:13)
Qazox- Penalty: Maicha Harven (slashing; Double minor) (13:16)
Qazox- Goal: (SH) Peter Asikei (14:52)
United Hertzel- Penalty: (Fighting) (19:08)
Qazox- Penalty: Hank Fahey (Fighting) (19:08)
Qazox- Penalty: Hank Fahey (Misconduct) (19:08)
SECOND PERIOD
Qazox- Penalty: Mikal Vladi (roughing) (13:11)
United Hertzel- PP Goal: (14:52)
United Hertzel- Penalty: Roughing (19:48)
THIRD PERIOD
Qazox- Goal (PP): Maicha Harven (0:18)
Qazox- Penalty: Alvin Gutshall (interference) (17:32)

TOTAL SHOTS
TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 10 11 11 32
U.H. 8 9 6 23
POWERPLAY
Qazox- 1/1
United Hertzel- 1/4

Bob: I swear if i see that damn referee again, I'll kill him!

Brian: No shit. A penalty shot with 30 seconds left in the game? and the guy barely fell or was hit!

Bob: I guess we can start packing for the trip back home soon.

Brian: What?

Bob: We're 0-3-1, we ain't gonna make it to the knockouts.

Brian: But we're only 3 points out. A couple of wins and we're back in it.

Bob: The way these big lummoxes have played? We couldn't beat a team of fish.

Brian: Well if you wanna go, then go. I guess I'll stay here, by myself, in a foreign country, and I can't speak French...

Bob: Fine, i'll stay, just so I can watch you order a raw octopus again.

Joe Baggs WCoH Blog.

Now the team is reduced to diving just to have a chance at winning. I saw that replay about 5 times and the walrus nearest to him didn't even hit him, and yet a penalty shot was awarded and OMG! they actually scored!

This team still sucks, but somehow they are only a point off for qualifcation to the next round. I guarentee you they won't make it.

The Jeruselem WCOH6 team turned up to training. They didn't look every motivated after constantly getting beaten up by real hockey teams. A blonde girl wearing Hello Kitty! female hockey strip turned up. It was Sister Marsha, just out of the habit and into something different. The boys thought she looked quiet sexy and surely, this was Jeruselem's hottest Nun.

Sister:
OK team, we need to work hard today. I know you all think the Pheonix will bury you again but we're out there to win too. To motivate you, the coach has decided to get out the field at training too. When I was a little girl, I used run around with a hockey stick. I think a coach should lead by example like Dazza Dallas does. We're going to train hard today, and we're going be fighting fit too. We need to practice some set plays boys. We need to execute our plays much better or we'll get smashed by Qazox. I don't want to you play like girls, I want see you play like men.

THE ROCKET REPORT

CURTIS TO BLAME?

Septentrionia- Things have not gone according to plan at all for Newmanistan in the World Cup of Hockey, version six. In the bottom of Group D sits the Rockets, having two ties and a loss in their games played thus far. Compunding that, is the fact they have still yet to play the team that many predict to win the World Cup, Kelssek. They have won all three of their games, and have been very impressive in doing so, surely justifying the predictions that they are the team to beat.

This was not supposed to happen for Newmanistan. They played pretty well in the opener against Septentrionia, but since then, it has not gone well. A loss to Kolanderaz was the start of the problem, and then a 4-4 tie with Taeshan in the following game made it that much worse. 4-4? What’s wrong with Newmanistan’s defensive, tight checking system? And if the Rockets are going to get 4 goals in a game, they need to be winning. The target for the blame on many messages boards throughout the Empire is head coach Robert Curtis. As one fan put it, “He thought we could just come in there and beat up everyone, but international hockey isn’t always about being physical. It started with the people he named to the squad, thinking that this was the way to go, and now it is backfiring.” A second fan posts: “It sickens me that some of these teams come in here with what are really inferior lineups, and we still haven’t won a damn game yet. You can blame the players all you want, but it all comes down to the coaching. Something is obviously wrong, and it starts with Curtis. His tactics are way off. A proud hockey nation like Newmanistan should not get embarrassed in the way that we are now.” Not all fans are all gloom and doom, as one optimistic fan posts: “I think we all need to relax here. We’ve only lost one freaking game. Coach Curtis is doing all that he can, and if we beat Kelssek, all you people are going to look real stupid because we’ll be sitting there with a 1-1-2 record with still four games left to play.”

Sure, you can point to inexperience if you want. This is the first time that Newmanistan has participated in an interregional tournament. But that won’t win over everyone, because that also holds true for Kolanderaz and the hosts, Septentrionia. Is it the system? Are the Rockets being shown that the defensive style in which Curtis wanted to play simply does not work at this level? If so, then perhaps it is fair to blame the coach as there should have been more scouting of knowing what works and what doesn’t work when competing at this grand stage. It’s only been three games, and yes, Newmanistan has only lost once. But there are greater problems here. What could be the ultimate cure for those ills. A win over Kelssek tonight. Save your reputation, Mr. Curtis.

OOC: Sorry for the lack of scorination yesterday. Coursework got in the way and I was very tired. MD11 is still a bye day, don't worry

Matchday 10

Group C:
Plutoni 1 - 4 Pablicosta
Quakmybush 2 - 2 Candelaria and Marquez


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Candelaria and Marquez 2 1 1 5 9 4 5
2. Gwaine 2 1 1 5 8 6 2
3. Quakmybush 1 0 3 5 5 3 2
4. Pablicosta 2 2 0 4 7 7 0
5. Plutoni 0 3 1 1 4 13 -9


Group D:
Kelssek 0 - 1 Newmanistan
Taeshan 2 - 0 Septentrionia


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Kelssek 3 1 0 6 9 3 6
2. Taeshan 2 1 1 5 7 5 2
3. Newmanistan 1 1 2 4 6 7 -1
4. Septentrionia 1 2 1 3 6 11 -5
5. Kolanderaz 1 3 0 2 3 5 -2

[OOC: Just go ahead and sim the friendly I'm scheduled for. It really doesn't matter to me where it's played. I'll come up with something if I'm the one RPing it.]

Drake:
“Hello I’m William Drake and welcome to OSN Primetime©, Orion’s own Sports Network. Joining me on this off-day is co-host John Stone, as well as OBC sports reporter Sydney Fry.”

Stone:
“Just to let you hockey fans out there know, the Fenrirs have a friendly against Group B’s Kenavt, who is 1-1-2 in competition. “

Fry:
“Yes, Kenavt is in the same group as the dominating Elves Security Forces, who are 4-0-0 in the first half of group play, and the only undefeated team remaining.”

Drake:
“I think we can all agree that it will be a good scrimmage.”

Fry:
“If nothing else, it will give the Fenrirs more experience playing together, something they’re going to need to pull out their group victory in the second half.”

Drake:
“So what, in your opinions, are the Fenrirs biggest strengths and weaknesses in the first half of the qualifying round? We’ll start with strengths first.”

Stone:
“Orion’s biggest strengths are their starters. Adrian Winters and Alexei Zeitzev have carried this team. Only Chris Mitchell has been a disappointment from the left side. The other 5 have been at the top of their game.”

Fry:
“I’m going to say what I’ve been saying all along. Orion’s strength is its defense. On a team with Winters and Zeitzev, James Julian has quietly become the team leader on the ice. Their defense is also far deeper than the offense, with players like Cole Bistok and Taras Talas contributing in a big part. Nikitin, for a rookie, has been out of this world.”

Drake:
“And their biggest weakness?”

Stone:
“A lack of unity and discipline are the only two things holding this team back. They should have won that game against Jeruselem, but they put themselves in a position to lose through penalties instead of a position to win through goals. They can’t keep playing from behind either.”

Fry:
“I know you disagree with me, John, but I think their offense has been inconsistent and underachieving. They have yet to score more than two goals a game, and in three of their four they only managed to put one shot in the back of the net. This team was supposed to be very offensive with Winters, Zeitzev, and Mitchell, and it hasn’t. Winters has produced, yes, but Zeitzev has been far too quiet and Mitchell almost a ghost. Also, their second and third lines have been almost non-existent. It’s one thing to beat Qazox, but if you can’t be Jeruselem, it doesn’t matter.”

Drake:
“I have to agree with both of you on the weaknesses. It’s great to win games you’re supposed to lose, but at the same time, you still need to win games you’re supposed to win. This team is still young and inexperienced in international play, but perhaps with their recent experience, they will do better in the second half.”

Stone:
“They need to finish 3-1-0 or 3-0-1. This team needs the confidence that a first-place finish would give.”

Fry:
“I think they could get away with 2-0-2 as well, John. Wins against Jeruselem and United Hertzel and ties against Lovisa and Qazox would do well for Orion’s chances.”

Stone:
“That would be the least they could finish. I don’t think another 2-1-1 finish will do this team well in what is the closest group in the Cup. Splitting the series with Qazox or tying either them or Lovisa would be alright, but now that we know that Orion can beat any team in this league, I don’t think we can expect anything less. I want at least 5 wins. I don’t think 4 will cut it.”

Drake:
“I think, however, what we can all agree on, is that anything less than a trip to the next round would be a huge disappointment. I’m William Drake,”

Stone:
“I’m John Stone,”

Together:
“And this is OSN Primetime©!”

Fry:
“Goodnight, Orion.”

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/kelchek/media/kirkenescourier-new.png

Laharrague shutout streak ends as Kelssek loses 1-0

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/kelchek/wcoh6-2.jpg
Kelssek goaltender Benoit Laharrague makes one of 31 saves against Newmanistan.


Benoit Laharrague's shutout streak came to an end at 173 minutes as Newmanistan beat Kelssek by a single goal in the late third period to deal the Blueleafs their first defeat of the 6th World Cup of Hockey.

An exciting game despite the scoreline, both teams had good scoring chances but it came down to the battle of the goaltenders, and in the end it was Craig Sanders who held on for the shutout with 29 saves.

The game went scoreless through the first two periods as both teams traded chances. Laurent Oberforsky rang two shots off the post and Sanders had to earn the shutout with some inspired play as Kelssek put 5 shots on him with the puck pinballing around the crease during a late first period powerplay.

But the only goal went to Newmanistan in the end. It was one of those plays which seemed benign, as Kevin Reschke battled with Sven Stefanovic for a dump in, allowing Larry Davidson to snatch the puck. Newmanistan's slapshot king instead went short side with a cunning wrister that found its way between the post and Laharrague's blocker.

The goal came as something of a heartbreaker for Kelssek, against the momentum of the third period to that point as they pressed for a winning goal and got scored on instead. Valiant attempts to level the scoreline were effectively snuffed out with strong defensive play by Newmanistan, particularly Kevin Regan who anchored a hardworking effort to shut down Kelssek's offence.

The Blueleafs, however, do remain top of their group and are still favoured to advance to the next round as the group stage crests the halfway mark.

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and joining me tonight are Patrick Campbell and Norris Smythe, and at the halfway point of the first round, Qazox finds itself in second place. Will it last, Patrick your thoughts?"

Campbell:
"For at least one more day, as the team has tommorrow off, while the other 4 teams all play. But this is an exprienced team, and I think they will pull though."

Smythe:
"The Phoenix are the most talented team in this group, but so far that hasn't really seemed to help as with the exception of the first Jeruselem game, every match has been fought tooth and nail until the end. This is a finesse team, and in the QHL that works, but not at the international level. They'll go into the next round, but not as group winners."


Wales:
"Looking at the other groups and including Qazox's group, give me your top three suprises and top three dissapointments, starting with you Norris, with the dissapointments."

Smythe:
"As for dissapointments, Easily, Prux is by far the most dissapointing at 0-3-1, and they won this tourney just 2 years ago? the 2nd most dissapointign team in Plutoni, who finished very well the last couple of cup, and now can't find the net or a goalie! The 3rd most dissapointing team is Quakmybush who is 0-1-3, and can't seem to score anymore."

Campbell:
"As for suprises, look no further than Steel butterfly in our group as #1. They beat us and are in a three-way tie atop the group. 2nd is Gwaine who is off to a great 2-1-1 start, they beat C&M, who is a good team as well. the third suprise team is Kose and the Turkomans as they control their destiny and currently sit in a playoff spot."

Wales:
"Ok guys, any predictions for the 2nd half of qualifying?"

Campbell:
"I'm going out on a limb and say that Steel Butterfly and Gwaine will win their groups."

Smythe:
"As for me, I predict that Prux will rebound and just qualify for the next round, as the other teams in that group really aren't that good."

Wales:
"We'll see you on Wednesday night for Jeruelem v. Qazox here on QBC."

THE ROCKET REPORT

SANDERS-DEFENSE GIVES ROCKETS NEW LIFE

Septentrionia- The Kelssek shooters will likely have nightmares featuring Craig Sanders tonight. With Newmanistan’s backs against the proverbial wall, someone needed to come up big, and that man was number 30 between the pipes. Sanders stood on his head, stopping all 29 shots that Kelssek put on goal, including some amazing stops that make you wonder at just how flexible goalies can be sometimes.

Despite questionable results on his strategy, coach Robert Curtis executed the same tight checking defensive strategy, and it was working quite well during even strength, but unfortunately the referee was apparently allergic to this thing called hitting in hockey and was calling every single thing he possibly could. Whistle after whistle, but at least he was consistent. Each team was handed five minor penalties apiece in the first period, and both had a brief 5-on-3 in which to work with. This is where Sanders was especially brilliant as Kelssek took six shots on goal in their 1:15 of a 2-man advantage, although they may have been better advised to have taken more time in setting up a great shooting lane, instead of what appeared to be dumping anything they could on Sanders. There were no goals in the first period despite all the powerplay opportunities provided. Kelssek outshot Newmanistan 15-11 in this frame.

The second period saw a considerable slow down in the action, and the referee cutting down significantly on the number of penalties he called. Due to this, both coaches took advantage of the opportunity to use their third and fourth lines a little more since they had little ice time due to all the PP chances in the opening frame. Eleven minutes into the frame, Laurent Oberforsky rang a shot off the left post, on what was likely Kelssek’s best chance of the game, given that Sanders was a bit out of position thanks to being run into by Jason Ingram. With plenty of net to shoot at, Oberforsky could not finish the play. Tom Stewart quickly cleared the zone after the puck hit the post to prevent a further rebound chance. No goaltender interference was called on Ingram because he was pushed into Sanders by Kevin Regan. It was the right no-call. Despite the better chance coming for Kelssek, the Rockets actually outshot their opponent 9-5 in the period, evening the shots at 20 apiece for the first two periods.

Sure, it was nice to hold the Blueleafs scoreless through two periods, but the Rockets needed to win. They couldn’t sit back and settle for a tie, so they went for it. Picking up the tempo of the game, opening up the contest for both teams. Both Benoit Laharrague and Craig Sanders were putting on a clinic, stopping everything fired their way, and actually making it look quite easy. Sometimes, we measure a great save by the goaltender diving around or making a frantic last second lunge at the puck to keep it from crossing the line, and while that is all well and good, we lose sight of how important it is for the goalie to be positionally sound while in traffic, and it might be what appears to be a simple blocker save, it was a lot more difficult then it looked. Both goalies were exceptional in the aspect of simply being in the right space at the right time. Though it would not last forever, and fortunately, the Rockets would be the team that scored. At the 13:25 mark, Larry Davidson blasted a shot stickside, somehow sneaking past Laharrague’s blocker and into the net. Kevin Reschke did the dirty work on this goal, and certainly earned his assist. Tom Stewart also picked up an assist on the play. The goal ended a shutout streak of over 173 minutes for Laharrague. The goal would stand, with the Rockets surviving a late Kelssek power play and a valiant effort by the Blueleafs to tie up the match before the final buzzer sounded. In the waning minutes, this is where we thought Kevin Regan was outstanding. Despite not being on the scoresheet, he gets our 3rd star of the game. Laharrague gets the 2nd star, and Sanders the 1st.

It was a critical win for Newmanistan after starting 0-1-2. Now, their record doesn’t look too bad after the first run through with their group opponents. For Kelssek, well, no one ever likes to lose, but you have the feeling this is the kind of lose they can just brush off. After all, they did played a strong game.

Plutoni national ice hockey blog: WCoH 6, Matchday 10

P as in pathetic

Well, not for Pablicosta. In a disappointingly familiar way, the unranked team beat Plutoni by three goals, the final score 4-1. Jason Phillips scored twice for the Pablicostans, in the first and third periods: Ashely Cornish and Joe Tait scored in the second.

Plutoni did get a goal though, and that came in the first to tie it. Perry Parentheses received a pass from Paul Plus sign, and this time was in position to poke the puck past Eric Lawrence.

But the way Plutoni has been playing, even a single point was too much to ask. After Plus sign's cross-checking penalty, Cornish scored on the power play, and Plutoni wouldn't lead for the rest of the game.

At the halfway point of the group stage, Plutoni has just one point, rivalled in futility only by defending champions Prux. This has drawn the attention of Qazox pundit Norris Smythe, who ranks Prux as the most disappointing team so far, Plutoni second, and Quakmybush third-remember, Quakmybush is the only team Plutoni has even tied! Smythe describes Plutoni as unable to "find the net or a goalie". We sat down with Ulrich Umlaut, who has conceded an unlucky, tournament-high, thirteen goals, for an interview.

Have there been any high points in this tournament so far?

"Um...well, getting the draw was nice. That was a point. I wasn't high though. I think some of the fourth line might have been?"

Do you think Plutoni can qualify for the knockout stage?

"No."

What does this team need to do to win some games?

"Score more goals than the other guys."

Oh. Okay. So how should they do that?

"Don't ask me, I keep goals out, not put them in."

And how have you, personally, been doing?

"Not so well."

Can you keep your spot as a starter?

"I hope so."

What's team chemistry like?

"It's five-thirty, I gotta go practice."

Could you hold on a second, please?

"No! It's five-thirty, I gotta go practice!"

Um-

...And around this point we were hastily reminded that Umlaut really, truly, prefers things to stay to schedule and we'd be best off letting him go practice. Hopefully it'll help.

[OOC: No friendly scorination? :( ]

Sorry. Here's the score:

Steel Butterfly 3 - 0 Kenavt

Scores will still happen tonight EST

(OOC: My apologies to Kelssek for not noticing until now that he RP'ed our game first. My recap of the game will be editted tonight. And what's this thing I'm hearing about friendlies in hockey? Hockey? Friendly? j/k)

Drake:
“Hello I’m William Drake and welcome to OSN Primetime©, Orion’s own Sports Network. Joining me on this off-day is my co-host John Stone, as well as OBC sports reporter Sydney Fry.”

Stone:
“And if we wanted a sign of improvement, I think we got it today.”

Fry:
“It’s tough to argue a 3-0 finish, guys. The Fenrirs just ran over Kenavt tonight in the friendly scrimmage at the midpoint break.”

Drake:
“The Fenrirs were money on offense, and just as we asked for, they got huge production from their second line.”

Stone:
“And Chris Mitchell did something, for Christ’s sake!”

Fry:
“That’s right. After the first face-off, Captain Alexei Zeitzev passed the puck to Mitchell who, in turn, passed it to Adrian Winters, who shot the moving pass right past the Kenavt goalkeeper for an early 1-0 lead!”

Drake:
“Something we saw a lot of tonight was Coach Jack Kiril experimenting with different offensive and defensive line combinations. The first defense played most of the game with the second line, and the results were unquestionable.”

Stone:
“Early in the second period, James Julian intercepted a Styx Askton pass and flew down the ice. A quick pass to Shurik Sidorov followed by a one-timer to Victor Titov at the point resulted in Titov slapshotting the puck past Roy Ike for Orion’s second goal of the night.”

Fry:
“Later on in the second, it was again Julian and Sidorov hooking up for a goal. Artem Vasiliev checked Kenavt forward Gerber Cavtype hard into the boards, stealing the puck at the same time, and passed it to Julian. Julian then caught the Kenavt defense by surprise, passing it through two men to Sidorov who scored a quick breakaway goal, putting the Fenrirs up by three.”

Drake:
“After the third period started, Orion pulled both first lines for offense and defense, allowing reserves a time to shine. However, all the Orion reserves accomplished was getting into fights.”

Stone:
“Yes, defender Chris Lucas got his ass beat by Kenavt’s Dennis Frazen, sending the Kenavt defender to the box. However, not to be out done, Orion’s Cole Bistok, notorious fighter, responded in turn, making a mockery of Daniel Fisher.”

Fry:
“Another large brawl between Sidorov, Taras Talas, Yuri Timur, Kris Letang, Jason Vivera, and Andrew de Vincho towards the end of the third period did nothing but cement a feeling of bad blood between these two teams.”

Stone:
“However, the 3-0 victory did nothing but cement Orion as a legitimate contender for the cup.”

Drake:
“Across the universe, peoples’ perceptions of the Fenrirs are quickly changing. A reporter in Qazox even predicted us to win the group.”

Fry:
“The whole Empire waits the start of the second half.”

Drake:
“I’m William Drake,”

Stone:
“I’m John Stone,”

Together:
“And this is OSN Primetime©!”

Fry:
“Goodnight, Orion.”

http://209.85.48.8/237/117/upload/p701909.png

Matchday 12 results:

Group A:
Steel Butterfly 3 - 1 Lovisa
United Hertzel 2 - 0 Jeruselem


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Steel Butterfly 3 1 1 7 8 5 3
2. Qazox 2 1 1 5 8 4 4 *
3. Lovisa 2 2 1 5 11 8 3 *
4. United Hertzel 1 2 2 4 9 10 -1
5. Jeruselem 1 3 1 3 4 13 -9


* Qazox are 2nd on Games Played: They have played 4 while Lovisa have played 5.

Group B:
Kenavt 3 - 4 Prux
Kose and the Turkomans 1 - 1 Green Wombat


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Elves Security Forces 4 0 0 8 11 1 10
2. Kose and the Turkomans 2 2 1 5 9 12 -3
3. Kenavt 1 2 2 4 8 11 -3
4. Green Wombat 1 2 2 4 4 6 -2
5. Prux 1 3 1 3 7 9 -2

Drake:
“Hello I’m William Drake and welcome to OSN Primetime©, Orion’s own Sports Network. Joining me on this off-day is my co-host John Stone, as well as OBC sports reporter Sydney Fry.”

Stone:
“What a way to start off the second half of the group stage!”

Fry:
“Yes, John, it certainly seems like Coach Kiril’s move to play the starting offensive line with the second defensive line, and vice versa, has certainly given the Fenrirs the boost they needed.”

Drake:
“For the second game in a row, and second since the switch in style, Orion has put up three goals in the game.”

Stone:
“It’s no coincidence that in the friendly against Kenavt and this recent game versus Lovisa, the Fenrirs have scored more goals than in the previous 4 games combined!”

Fry:
“Speaking of Lovisa, for the 6th ranked team in the universe coming into this game, they certainly fell hard today. And I’m going to say it every time, guys, but even with this recent offensive explosion, the Orion defense, held one of the highest scoring offensives in the cup, and the highest in the group, easily at bay.”

Drake:
“Lets get to the game, shall we?”

Highlights roll.

Drake:
“The first period passed by scoreless, and it was most notable that even though the Fenrirs committed three penalties throughout the twenty minutes, Lovisa was unable to score. As Sydney said, it was a good sign for the Orion defense against the second-highest overall scoring team of the first half.”

Stone:
“Shurik Sidorov got another great goal off of James Julian and Artem Vasiliev assists to start off the second period, however right after he scored he was leveled by Lovisian defender Carsten Baarg. Vasiliev and Victor Titov quickly grabbed Baarg, throwing him to the ice and starting a major brawl between the two teams. When the dust cleared, Lovisa had a 4-3 advantage on the ice.”

Fry:
“Yes, John, it rivaled the large brawl in the first matchup between these two teams, and although the fighters were different, the same bad blood remained.”

Drake:
“This time, however, Lovisa took full advantage of the 4-3 powerplay, as Arno Saalavilainen scortched one in past Arkady Nikitin off of a Carsten Sendqvist assist.”

Stone:
“However, before the powerplay was even over, Adrian Winters proved, once again, what makes him such a special player.”

”Lovisa charging again, Barlett to Dolezal, Dolezal to Hildebrandt, Hilde – intercepted by Julian! Julian down the ice! Julian pass to Winters. Winters dekes, makes a brilliant move! SCORE! ADRIAN WINTERS WITH THE SHORT-HANDED GOAL!”

Fry:
“The rest of the period was only marred by another fight, with Cole Bistok again engaging the opposition, this time being sent off the ice for the rest of the game after fighting two opponents at the same time, and holding his own throughout.”

Drake:
“Yes, while his enforcer personality is integral to this team’s mentality, he’s really toeing the line of being fined and/or suspended for a game or more. Coach Kiril needs to keep him in check, in the near future at least.”

Stone:
“The third quarter started with Orion up 2-1, but half-way though, a bad tripping penalty by Laurent Moreux gave Orion the powerplay, and the Fenrirs never looked back.”

Fry:
“Adrian Winters crushed Jon Lundqvist as the Lovisian forward was on the attack, stealing the puck and passing it to Chris Mitchell. Mitchell then passed it to Alexei Zeitzev in front of the net, who ripped it past Sergio Bazer with a one-timer!”

Stone:
“The game was over after that. Orion was firmly in the lead and the defense held.”

Drake:
“Yes, it really was a brilliant game by everyone involved. I’m William Drake, signing off,”

Stone:
“I’m John Stone,”

Together:
“And this is OSN Primetime©!”

Fry:
“Goodnight, Orion.”

http://209.85.48.8/237/117/upload/p701911.png

(OOC: My apologies to Kelssek for not noticing until now that he RP'ed our game first. My recap of the game will be editted tonight. And what's this thing I'm hearing about friendlies in hockey? Hockey? Friendly? j/k)

No biggie. I just thought you were unaccountably bad at math...

---

The tunnel was quickly becoming a madhouse as game time approached, but the television presenter managed to grab an interview nonetheless.

"So at this juncture, what do you think of the team's performance so far?"

"Well, it's hard to say it's been terrible. We're top of the group and we took three wins in a row, and it was a narrow loss in a game we could and should have had. We can't throw away powerplay opportunities like we did last time, and the guys know that."

"Was the last game a bit of a letdown?"

"I think we played well enough, it would be a letdown only because we couldn't solve the goalie and we let in that one goal. This kind of thing is a real test for the team, it's how you come back from games like that and that'll be the measure of whether we're serious contenders or not."

"Mr. Gilbert, thank you very much."

"You're welc... wait, I'm not Craig Gilbert, I'm just the equipmen-"

"Back to the studio."

The Albrecht Herald Online>Sport>Other>In Brief>Really In Brief>Ice Hockey: They’re still top (somehow)

No-one’s paying it the slightest bit of attention, but the Blue Hard Vulcanised Rubber Discs are actually doing quite well at their second World Cup of Hockey, in Septentrionia. After unusually confident early victories, C&M fell to an impressive Gwaine outfit on their third outing, but rallied on matchday ten to grab a point against the two-time former champions from Quakmybush.

It was the first time sport teams from the two countries had met, and on the face of it there could be no arguing about who had favourite status. Yet history has not been kind to the Atlantian Oceanian country, who have fallen from grace at their chosen sport in recent years. And if C&M isn’t exactly the most likely country to take up their mantle, as Seb Mulrooney’s men were able to take advantage of their current struggles. Just.

We can’t ignore that, aside from the current all-conquering Eesseffian outfit, Quakmybush were and remain the only undefeated side in this tournament. Converting draws to victories have been their problem, but this was also a clash between the greater experience of the favourites and youthful enthusiasm of the Candelariasians. The chance for these amateurs to play at the highest level, to get noticed perhaps by a Kinney Road or Qazox City Eagles, Kirkenes Dragons or Ourseville 1093 – or even a Xed City Slashers or Cherrywood Clan of Quakmybush itself – remains a major prize for several members of the C&M squad, and Mulrooney must be praised for thus far keeping them together as a strong unit.

After Quakmybush had capitalised on an early powerplay, all six Candelariasians on the ice contributed to the equaliser struck home by Vernon Mucha. Sensing that yet another point in a tied game was on the cards, C&M produced an impressive rearguard performance that finally gave out mid-way through the final period. But young Bala Ebûssüûd gave C&M the last laugh, hooking in a second scrambled equaliser moments before the whistle. Or bell, or siren, or light, or whatever it is.

Coming so late it felt like a victory, and leaves C&M in a great position to qualify for the second stage for the first time. After the pain of semi-final defeat in the Cup of Harmony, those Candelariasians who had made the journey to Septentrionia felt finally ready to rejoice the fact that C&M seem to have found another sport we’re sort of good at. Players and fans celebrated together, and who could blame them for being on a high? Pablicosta could’ve won eight-one, for all the fear they held in this suddenly pumped-up Candelariasian unit.

And then they received the phone call.

Matchday 13 results:

Group C:
Gwaine 2 - 2 Quakmybush
Pablicosta 0 - 3 Candelaria and Marquez


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Candelaria and Marquez 3 1 1 7 12 4 8
2. Gwaine 2 1 2 6 10 8 2
3. Quakmybush 1 0 4 6 7 5 2
4. Pablicosta 2 3 0 4 7 10 -3
5. Plutoni 0 3 1 1 4 13 -9


Group D:
Kolanderaz 0 - 4 Taeshan
Newmanistan 1 - 0 Septentrionia


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Taeshan 3 1 1 7 11 5 6
2. Kelssek 3 1 0 6 9 3 6
3. Newmanistan 2 1 2 6 7 7 0
4. Septentrionia 1 3 1 3 6 12 -6
5. Kolanderaz 1 4 0 2 3 9 -6

Drake:
“Hello I’m William Drake and welcome to OSN Primetime©, Orion’s own Sports Network. Joining me on this off-day is my co-host John Stone, as well as OBC sports reporter Sydney Fry.”

Stone:
“In a surprise press release today, Orion confirmed wide-spread rumors that although they currently stand in first place with a 3-1-1 record, they were in the process of a roster readjustment and changes in their lines.”

Fry:
“I don’t think anyone was really expecting these moves, guys. Not now. Not with the way they’ve been playing.”

Drake:
“However, to be fair to Coach Kiril, it was his decision to mess with the defensive and offensive line pairing that catapulted Orion to its current scoring spree. Let’s watch what the coach had to say.”

”Today,” Coach Kiril began. “With the Junior Orion tournament finally concluded, I am pleased to announce the addition of six junior all-stars to the Orion Fenrirs. These players include multi-sport athletes Eric Stark and Damien Rasiak, defenders Nick Lambert and Marcel Mathis, winger Leofric Krystyn, and Junior Cup MVP August Dietmar. In addition, we also have switched around some of the lines. Former fourth line center Nikolas Winogradski, because of his terrific play, has been moved to his more natural position at the wing and was promoted to the first line. Chris Mitchell will also change to be the center of the third line. Also, Taras Talas and Yuri Timur are now our third defensive pairing, not our fourth. The first offensive line will continue to play with the second defensive pairing, as this has lead to great results, and the second offensive line will play with our All-Star first defensive pairing. I’m sure you all will be pleased with the results tomorrow.”

Stone:
“You know, I think they’re all great moves, I just have to question the timing. This team just starting playing as a team, and now Coach Kiril not only changes that dynamic, but he does so with junior players, who may have a harder time adjusting.”

Fry:
“None of the people he took out were big producers, to be honest. And I think that Eric Stark and August Dietmar in particular will be absolutely huge for this team. Both are former Juniors MVP’s. Both will be rookies next year. Both should have a huge impact.”

Drake:
“Yes, and John the fact that they’re juniors in the Orion system doesn’t mean they can’t compare internationally. We all know that in Orion you can’t go pro until you’re 21. Rasiak has already turned 21, as have Lambert and Mathis. Really, Leofric Krystyn, at 19, is the only youngster of the crowd. Stark and Dietmar are both 20, but will both be 21 in August.”

Fry:
“What about moving veteran Chris Mitchell from the first line to the third? And in contrast, moving Nikolas Winogradski from the fourth to the first!? Did you guys see either of these coming?”

Stone:
“Moving Chris Mitchell has been a long time coming and should have happened earlier. People get on Alexei Zeitzev’s case for no longer playing with his youthful vigor, but really Chris Mitchell is only two years younger, and plays about ten years older. I think pairing him with August Dietmar will give him a little shock to his system, and I really think their two games can compliment each other well. As for Nikolas, the move to winger is only natural, but move to first line comes as a bit of a shock. I like, however, how Coach Kiril is mixing up the talent throughout the lines. This team is becoming a lot more well-rounded.”

Drake:
“Yes, really third line for Chris may be a bit insulting, but he gets to play with the current juniors MVP and also Coach Kiril did not want to break up Shurik Sidorov and Victor Titov. Those two have been better than anyone predicted, Sidorov particularly, and now they get phenom Eric Stark as well. And I have to agree with you on Nikolas. Good show on his part.”

Fry:
“What about Eric Stark getting second-line placement and August Dietmar getting third?”

Stone:
“These two guys couldn’t be more similar. Both are insane talents. Both are natural scorers. Both are about the same age. Both are juniors MVP’s, with Stark being last year’s and Dietmar being the current selection. Really I think it all comes down to pairings. Dietmar’s a bit larger, and can take more blows than Stark, although Stark is a bit faster. That makes Deitmar pair well with the small but speedy Mitchell and Stark pair well with bruising center Sidorov.”

Drake:
“Stark and Sidorov are also old friends and team mates from their junior days together. You have to remember that Sidorov is only two years into the league. He and Stark won two championships together, before Stark won one by himself last year alone. These guys play great together, and I’m glad Coach Kiril recognizes that. But, since this is an off-night, that’s all the time we have for you. I’m William Drake,”

Stone:
“I’m John Stone,”

Together:
“And this is OSN Primetime©!”

Fry:
“Goodnight, Orion.”

[OOC: My roster has been updated as well, for those of you who may need to RP my games]

Brian: DAMMIT! my alarm was set to the wrong time. what I miss?

Bob: We won

Brian: What?

Bob: We won 4-3.

Brian: No shit?

Bob: No Shit. I think they won 'cause you weren't here

Brian: What? But you hate the walruses

Bob: That's why they won, I think. They were scared that I'd chop them up and sell blubbercicles.

Brian: Huh?

Bob: That's what I told the walruses after the 2nd itermission, when they were trailing 3-1. They came back and won.

Brian: I'm going to be here for the next game, just to prove your point wrong.

Bob: I'm telling you, they are afraid of me, and it may just get us the title. I think i'll threaten to send their pups to the Polar bear exhibit back in Pawtucket. We'll win 10-0!

Joe Baggs WCoH Blog.

i'll give it up for the wombats... they didn't lose!.. But they didn't win either, and the only win they got was against a bunch of literal animals. I guess humans are too smart for this team, huh? Hell this whole group sucks so damn bad, the even this team has a chance to finish 2nd. I'm glad the next match is against a real team, as they'll squish any lingering hopes for the frauds.

THE ROCKET REPORT

SECOND STRAIGHT SHUTOUT FOR SANDERS - ROCKETS

Ourseville, Septentrionia- The second half of group play got under way last night, and for Craig Sanders and the Rockets it began the same way that the first half ended. A 1-0 shutout! Perhaps, Robert Curtis’ plan is now beginning to work, or maybe its simply a case of the team having grown chemistry with one another and playing in the defensive system. Either way, the Rockets are suddenly looking a lot better then they were before the Kelssek game, and have improved to 2-1-2, and just one point behind Group leading Taeshan. They are tied for second with Kelssek, however the Blueleafs have a game in hand on both Newmanistan and Taeshan.

Coach Curtis went with seven defensemen and eleven forwards for the game, so that meant Brian Conroy would see action, and Jean-Sebastian Lapointe was announced as the odd man out. Technically, the Rockets were the home team for this game, and the Septentrionians were kind enough to make less tickets available for sale to their home fans and more for Newmanistanians, but still, it was at least 80% fans of the host nation. Those fans remembered the Rockets style, but now that we were through the first round robin, they didn’t boo our team as much. The first period got off to a pretty good start for the Rockets when Alex Marchese fired the puck through the five hole of Charpie, to give the Rockets the lead. Officially, Marchese from Meadows and Loiselle at 6:42. Getting the first goal of the game was exactly what the Rockets wanted as they immediately clamped down defensively, smothering the Septentrionian shooters, rarely surrendering the blue line. And when they did, the last line of defense, Craig Sanders, came up with the stop. Newmanistan had a 7-5 shots advantage for the first period, though five of the Rockets seven shots were prior (and including) the goal.

Since they were only down one, Septentrionia didn’t press the issue too much in the first period, and were content to play dump and chase hockey, even though they were losing a lot of the battles in the corner. Though as the minutes wound down, and we got to the midway point of the period they began to realize they needed to pick up their play, and get a spark somehow. What better way to get the arena fired up with some dropping of the gloves. Marcel Cartier would cross-check (not seen by ref) the Rockets agitator Shawn Evans, which expectedly got Evans a little ticked off. Evans went after Cartier, only to be blindsided by Thomas Gareau. Todd McKinley immediately saw this and went after Gareau, and the gloves went flying, McKinley vs. Gareau. McKinley got some early punches in before they grabbed a hold of each others jerseys, with each landing a couple punches with their free hand. After about a minute and a half of this, McKinley knocks Gareau to the ice. McKinley won the fight, he was supposed to given his height advantage, so the Septentrionian bench was extremely fired up by the way Gareau hung in there and fearlessly took on McKinley for the sake of the team. As expected, the intensity of the game picked up, but it did so on both sides. Sanders made a particularly impressive glove save on Pierre Paquette with 2:28 remaining. After the second period, we remained 1-0. Septentrionia outshot the Rockets 11-7 in the period, giving them a 16-14 lead in that department for the game.

One period left for the Rockets to maintain, or perhaps, build on the lead. Victory was in their sights, and they knew they had to play even stronger defensively now. This is where we really felt that the Rockets benefitted from going with seven defensemen in the game. Being able to give them shorter shifts, they weren’t as worn down as maybe they would have been at this point, and did seem to be quicker then the Septentrionias as the minutes ticked away. This completely took away the dump and chase game for Septentrionia, and meant that they would have to skate the puck in, and around the redwood defense of players like Kevin Regan, Todd McKinley, and Clint Greene. They did their best and had their moments, but Newmanistan was up for the challenges. When they got to Craig Sanders, you could see the confidence in goalie. He sensed a second straight shutout and was not about to let it go. He was never greatly tested, getting a good look at the shots that were taken. The defensemen were either blocking shots effectively or clearing the front of the net to assure Sanders would see it all. The minutes continued to run off the clock, and with 1:09 to play, Septentrionia finally gets Charpie off the ice for the extra attacker. It didn’t matter though, as the Rockets held on for the win. Septentrionia outshot Newmanistan in the 3rd period 12-5, and for the game, 28-19.

Our three stars of the game:
1st star- Craig Sanders, 28 shots faced - 28 saves
2nd star - Remy Charpie, 19 shots faced - 18 saves, kept his team in it.
3rd star - Alex Marchese, game winning (and only) goal

Valanora Times
Calcuttas Striking Through The Oppisition

After two very poor performances in recent tournaments, and the near collapse of the EHL, it seemed that Hockey was about to be written off as a major sport in Valanora. Yet here are the magnificent Calcuttas, fighting through the adversity to try and revitalize the sport once again. They were successful back in the first World Cup of Hockey, and the sport was thought to be back into a fight with football for the most popular sport in the country, given the success of the respective national sides at the time. Yet a recent run of good graces in the World Cup competition, and poor form in the Hockey front saw that momentum killed and set in reverse. So how do these twenty players continue to do the impossible, and lead the way into a perfect record and the number one ranking in the World? It is a true testament to the will of these twenty players, and their manager, that their achievements are made in such a hotbed of controversy and chaos.

On the ice, it's the usual suspects of: captain Amras Nénharma , the scoring machine of Fingon Lúinwë, and the maturity of Amras Tasartir on the blue line that have enabled this squad to be dominating their group with relative ease. The only team to still have a perfect record also has to thank Lauf Rochest and his staunch faith in Arminas Carnesîr in between the pipes. Arminas has had his problems documented time and time again about his failure to show up in big games and to steal a game. That seems to have changed as he's allowed but one goal in the four games played thus far, easily leading every goaltender in the tournament in that category.

In order for this unparallelled success to continue, the power play needs to sharpen up and convert more of its' chances. At a mere 13.4% conversion rate thus far, it simply won't cut it when the Calcuttas make it into the playoffs. The difference between good teams and great teams are their special teams, and while the Calcuttas boast a 91.3% penalty kill, that lackluster power play could come back to haunt them later in the competition. Yet, for that to be the only chink in the armor is a testament to how dominant this team has been, and will need to continue to be if they are to have a chance at winning thier first title in the sport, and spring some life back into it on the domestic scene.

Article by Ron Santapa

Matchday 15:

Group A:
Qazox 3 - 1 Jeruselem
Steel Butterfly 2 - 1 United Hertzel


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Steel Butterfly 4 1 1 9 10 6 4
2. Qazox 3 1 1 7 11 5 6
3. Lovisa 2 2 1 5 11 8 3
4. United Hertzel 1 3 2 4 10 12 -2
5. Jeruselem 1 4 1 3 5 16 -11


Group B:
Elves Security Forces 6 - 0 Green Wombat
Kenavt 2 - 2 Kose and the Turkomans


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Elves Security Forces 5 0 0 10 17 1 16
2. Kose and the Turkomans 2 2 2 6 11 14 -3
3. Kenavt 1 2 3 5 10 13 -3
4. Green Wombat 1 3 2 4 4 12 -8
5. Prux 1 3 1 3 7 9 -2


Colour legend for both tables:
Red: Out
Purple: Can only qualify from a playoffs spot
Orange: Assured of a playoffs spot
Green: Is qualified for the knockout phase

(ooc: Should ESF basically have clinched the group by now? they'd have to go 0-3-0, while K T&T would have to go 2-0-0 and doesn't ESF hold the Tiebreaker 5 wins to 4 anyway?)

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and joining me tonight is Norris Smythe. Patrick Campbell is out with the flu, and we hope he gets better. Qazox started the 2nd half of pool play with a 3-1 win over Jeruselem, which allowed Steel Butterfly, who defeated United Hertzel earlier to clinch a playoff berth. Norris, was this the game that the Pheonix needed to get themselves back atop the group?"

Smythe:
"Well the 4 days off between this match and the last one didn't help, but after that sluggish start which Qazox only managed 8 shots on net, by far the worst period they've played, they came back and just dominated the last 40 minutes outshooting Jeruselem 35-8. Amazingly they outshot Jeruselem in teh 2nd period, 21-4 despite being a man down for 5 minutes due to Vladi's stupidity of shoving a referee. And he'll be gone for the next game, which could hurt Qazox' chances."

Wales:
"So leading into the next match against Steel Butterfly, does Qazox win?"

Smythe:
"If they can overcome the loss of Vladi, then they'll be alright, but Steel Butterfly has proven they can slow down this attack. I think Qazox manages to pull out a 2-1 win this time around."

Wales:
"Ok. For those of you that either missed the game or tuned in late, here is the scoring summary for the game:"



TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 0 3 0 3
Jeruselem 1 0 0 1

FIRST PERIOD
Jeruselem- Goal: (10:08)
Qazox- Penalty: Jerome Leventhal (boarding) (13:16)

SECOND PERIOD
Jeruselem- Penalty: (roughing 3:52)
Qazox- Goal: (PP) Maicha Harven (2) (4:17), assisted by: Freeman, Soltero
Jeruselem- Penalty: (Fighting 11:20)
Jeruselem- Penalty: (Cross-checking 11:20)
Qazox- Penalty: Mikal Vladi- (Fighting 11:20)
Qazox- Penalty: Mikal Vladi- (Misconduct 11:20)
Qazox- Penalty: Mikal Vladi- (Game Misconduct 11:20)
Qazox- Goal: (SH) Leon Guercio (2) 15:51, Assisted by: Soltero, Maaten
Jeruselem- Penalty: (Delay of game 18:19)
Qazox- Goal: (PP) Leon Guercio (3) 19:52, assisted by: Caulder,Zabov

THIRD PERIOD
Qazox- Penalty: Derek Caperton (High-Sticking 5:13)
Qazox- Penalty: Richard Hansen (Cross-Checking 18:43)

TOTAL SHOTS
TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 8 21 14 43
Jeruselem 13 4 4 21
POWERPLAY
Qazox- 2/2
Jeruselem 0/3

The Albrecht Herald Online>Sport>Other>In Brief>Really In Brief>Briefest as Brief Can Be

If C&M get the second-best result of Matchday 13 and nobody notices, did it actually happen? The Blue Hard Vulcanised Rubber Discs pulled off one of their best ever competitive international result in Septentrionalis this afternoon, with a dominating 3-0 victory over Pablicosta. Again.

While the nation’s collective mind remains concentrated firmly on other things, the performances of Seb Malrooney and his squad are well worthy of celebration; though in a tight group their time in Septentrionia could yet end in failure – particularly if the woefully underachieving Plutonian outfit can rise to the challenge of sneaking into the group’s top three over their remaining matches.

However long the Candelariasians’ run here may prove, this particular game will clearly live long in the memory. There were few Candelariasian eyes either among the playing ranks or in the stands that failed to glisten at least during a particularly full-bodied rendition of O, Sweet Nation and, though captain Xavier Deadman insisted before the game that events back home would have little impact on the team’s performances in the AO, it was very clear that these players were carrying extra weight on their shoulders. Perhaps, if there can possibly be any silver lining to the untimely deaths of three-hundred-or-so people, it will be to engender in this C&M side a feeling not only of patriotic responsibility, but that incidents such as this prove that once and for all the traditionally isolationist Candelarias are now part of the wider world. C&M national sporting sides over the last decade have lacked a clear sense of belief, crippled by the notion that when all’s said and done they don’t really belong out here, that our little islands’ involvement in international sport has an element of the surreal about it. But now, if the world is so rudely going to come to us, is it not right and proper that we take ourselves to the world, and show this planet was the Candelariasian people have to offer?

Ahem.

Anyway, Pablicosta put up a decent defensive performance early on, aiming to frustrate the new group favourites rather than take them on head to head. It certainly worked early on, and the Pablicostans themselves had excellent opportunities to take the lead with C&M committing too many bodies forward. The Blues finally opened the scoring early in the middle period however, with Bala Ebûssüûd increasingly looking C&M’s revelation of this tournament. The flowing Albrecht native went on two register two assists, setting up the captain Deadman and James Bell to wrap the game up with fifteen minutes to go.

Speaking after the game, Bell was keen to break ranks with Deadman and press the importance of “giving everyone back home something to put a smile on their face” and, his distinctive Conroy accent aside (the granny rule’s a marvellous thing, isn’t it?), few watching could argue with his sincerity. How fitting though that a young man brought up barely ten minutes walk from the now shattered shell of Thompsontown High Street was C&M’s clear man of the match. I still haven’t got a clue how you pronounce his surname, mind.

[OOC: Same as last time, United Hetzel has YET to post a roster…]

Drake:
“Hello I’m William Drake and welcome to OSN Primetime©, Orion’s own Sports Network and continuous home of the FIRST PLACE ORION FENRIRS! Joining me today, as usual, are my partners in crime John Stone and Sydney Fry.”

Stone:
“We’ve gotten to the point now that even with a Qazox win, we still keep the lead!”

Fry:
“And speaking of Qazox, if we win next week’s game against them, we’re all but in as the group champions!”

Drake:
“How about juniors August Dietmar and Eric Stark? Viewers you saw right here last night that we all stated that these two would be huge, and were they not!”

Stone:
“Dietmar’s influence was felt right away. UH’s starting center was put in the box for tripping Adrian Winters, something Winters fired back on quickly in the power play.”

Fry:
“Yes, Dietmar was put on the power play line in place of defender Damien Rasiak, effectively being a fourth forward along with the starters Winters, Zeitzev, and Winogradski.”

Drake:
“Dietmar received a pass from Winogradski, who had stolen the puck, raced through two defenders, and passed the puck to Adrian Winters. Winters scored off of a quick one-timer only twenty seconds into the power play.”

Stone:
“Later in the first, UH managed to sneak one in on their own power play, making the game 1-1 at the end of the period.”

Fry:
“It was the score of the second period, as well, with the Fenrirs and United Hetzel playing the same overly-clean game that they played last time.”

Drake:
“Eric Stark’s influence had yet to be felt, however, until five minutes remained in the 3rd period, and the game looked like it was going to end up a tie.”

Stone:
“Yes, out of nowhere, Stark, who is supposedly quite strong but relatively medium or even small sized at 6 foot 190 pounds, got in a short fight with a UH defender, and both received penalties for roughing.”

Fry:
“However, it was what he did coming right out of the box that gave Orion their fourth win of the group stage. James Julian, as has become quite typical now in this World Cup of Hockey, received the puck after placing a hard check on a UH player, skated down the ice far enough, and then passed it to Shurik Sidorov.”

Stone:
“Sidorov, who has been far better than expected in this tournament, paused for a moment with the puck in front of the net, before making the decision not to shoot.”

Drake:
“You could almost hear the entire stadium hold its breath, with two minutes and fifty seconds left, as Sidorov passed the puck to junior phenom Eric Stark, who just joined the team two days ago and was playing in his first international game.”

Fry:
“Stark, as he usually did in juniors, did nothing but capitalize on the situation, shooting one of the fastest wrist shots I’ve seen in a very long time right past the UH goalie. The goalie looked almost stunned as the red lights flashed.”

Stone:
“Stark, however, played it off just as he should: like he had been there before. It was an odd sight seeing him calm as his team mated just erupted around him.”

Drake:
“This game places the Orion Fenrirs firmly in first place. It goes without saying that next game versus Qazox needs to be at least a tie. A win would be absolutely huge. The excitement is building. I’m William Drake,”

Stone:
“I’m John Stone,”

Together:
“And this is OSN Primetime©!”

Fry:
“Goodnight, Orion.”

(Not on my computer right now...out of town for my cousin's wedding...updated stats will come later today)

First Period
Goal (PP) – Adrian Winters
Assists – Nikolai Winogradski, August Dietmar

Third Period
Goal – Eric Stark (Game-Winning)
Assists – James Julian, Shurik Sidorov

(Rockets players gather in preparation for their game with Kolanderaz)

Greene: Hey, did you guys ever notice this? Kolanderaz and The Orion Star Empire both have a first line defensemen named James Julian who is their alternate captain. What are the odds of that, eh?

Meadows: Wow, are we sure it’s not the same person. They play on different matchdays, maybe he has two nationalities and is pulling double duty.

Marchese: That’s pretty ironic, seeing its not like his name is Mike Smith or something.

Curtis: Alright guys settle down, we got a lot to go over now. This is where we messed up in the first run through, against Kolanderaz, so we must be in better rhythm out on the ice today.

Regan: Yeah definitely, there’s nothing special about this Eagles opponent. We should not lose twice to them. We need a win.

Curtis: A win should put us in a good position. A loss, then everything we accomplished in the last games is wasted.

Meadows: Everyone else in the group is cruising against this opponent. They should not beat us. They had their day last time, but things need to be different now.

Greene: My friend, Kevin Lewis, on the Oxen Cup football team gives us his best. They did a decapitation of minitaure evil penguin named Sidney. We should do something cool like that too. After all, shouldn’t a hockey team be cursing prima donnas named Sidney and penguins, in general?

Curtis: What do you suggest then, Clint?

Greene: I don’t know. I just hate penguins and wanted to throw them in. Eagles can be like penguins. Well, not really. Ok, well not all. But we can pretend.

Regan: Goalies are always the ones with the crazy superstitions. So Craig, what do you suggest we do?

Sanders: A little more goal support would be nice. I’m kidding, I’m kidding. Well, for the most part, I’m kidding.

Curtis: Well Craig has a point, too, guys. We can’t count on winning all of our games 1-0. They’ve been nice, and Craig has been a brick wall. We need to do a better job of cycling down low in the offensive zone, preferably to give our centers a nice opportunity in the slot. I feel that we can do this against Kolanderaz. I don’t want to sacrifice much defense, but with more sustained pressure, we can give Craig more support.

Marchese: Sounds like a plan.

Curtis: We do a little more free skating against these guys, and not rely to much on the ol’ dump and chase. I hope you’ve all watched the game tapes that were provided to you of the Marshall Eagles. This game will set the tone for the remainder of our experience here in Septentrionia.

Sanders: I got it. Tell the football team to do their penguin sacrifice by live webcast. That way, we can watch it too, and maybe it will rub off on us.

Regan: I told you to leave it to the goalie to come up with the plan!

Curtis: Not a bad idea. Ok, now here’s some more strategy.

Joe Baggs WCoH Blog.

Told ya. 6-0??? hell my dead Norwegian Blue Parrot could have done better. this fraudulent team is now almost eliminated and i can't wait to get back home and actually watch the Wombats in the OXen Cup. for those who have read both my Blogs, I've been stuck here in Septentrionia for the last 2 weeks, and thank god the hotel has Q-DISH NETWORK (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=516948), or else i'd be bored to tears.

Kolanderaz and The Orion Star Empire both have a first line defensemen named James Julian who is their alternate captain...They did a decapitation of minitaure evil penguin named Sidney. We should do something cool like that too. After all, shouldn’t a hockey team be cursing prima donnas named Sidney and penguins, in general?

OOC: First of all, that's just weird. Second...LETS GO PENS!

http://209.85.48.8/237/117/upload/p701920.png

OOC: Pens won. Hossa is the man!

IC:
“Adrian,” a reporter asked. “You are proving to be one of the best players of the entire cup, to what do you contribute your success?” Adrian Winters smiled.

“I suppose you mean one of the best players in the cup who doesn’t play for ESF, right?” he joked. Most of the reporters, and all of his teammates, laughed. Coach Kiril’s face was stern, as always. “Honestly I credit my line and the defense for having enough faith in me to pass me all of those pucks. They could take the shots themselves, or pass them to someone else, but they give ‘em to me, and let me make things happen. I could have gotten one or two goals alone. But not five.”

“James,” a different reporter asked. “You have become an assist machine, and have almost as many points as Adrian here. How come when you touch the puck someone scores?”

“Oh hell,” James Julian laughed. “I’m just one of those guys Adrian talked about. I had faith in him, and I passed him the puck. Now I have faith in Shurik, and I pass him the puck. Scoring’s not really my thing, so I find other ways to get my name in the headlines.”

“Coach noting on what James said,” the same reporter continued. “What is it about Shurik Sidorov that has allowed him to flourish in this Cup?”

“He’s always been capable of playing at this level,” Coach Kiril replied. “He just plays for, lets face it, a notoriously poor club team with neither a goalie nor a defense. He has shown signs of greatness from time to time, and I firmly believed that he would be a credible part of this team. But to be honest with you, guys, how he’s been playing lately has surprised even me.”

“Alexei,” a reporter asked. “As the captain of the team, what is the biggest threat you see in Qazox, and what do you think is their biggest weakness?”

“Both of us are playing surprising hockey right now,” the Orion captain replied. “We’re both teams noted for offense but playing defense above and beyond the call of duty. Last time, neither offense scored. Only James managed to sneak one past. The universe now knows that neither one of these teams are soft defensively, as previously though. Defense will be superb throughout. Really it comes down to whose goaltender can make the most stops, and whose offense can get some momentum going.”

“If this game is as close as the last one,” Winters chimed in. “A single powerplay goal could be the difference. I think every one of us understands the situation we’re in. If we win, we pretty much control our own destiny with the group. We’ll have quite a large lead and the tie breakers for both contending teams. This is something that we all feel we need.”

“We’re approaching it as a playoff game,” James Julian explained. “I think we all want this to be our first big test. You can play a team hard once and it can be a fluke.” He chucked. “Certainly my goal last time was evidence to that. Who would have thought I’d break the tie? But really…if you do it twice…that’s no accident. We’ve been playing with a chip on our shoulders this whole time, and we’re not about to stop now.”

“Coach what about the key additions of Eric Stark and August Dietmar?” a report questioned.

“I think the stat lines speak for themselves,” Coach Kiril replied. “Eric is one of the most natural scorers I’ve ever seen play. He would give Adrian here, or anyone from ESF, a run for their money. August is one of the best athletes on this team too. He is big and powerful yet as agile as a cat. Both of this guys have already contributed, and both will continue to do so.”

Matchday 16:

Group C:
Plutoni 1 - 1 Candelaria and Marquez
Gwaine 1 - 1 Pablicosta


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Candelaria and Marquez 3 1 2 8 13 5 8
2. Gwaine 2 1 3 7 11 9 2
3. Quakmybush 1 0 4 6 7 5 2
4. Pablicosta 2 3 1 5 8 11 -3
5. Plutoni 0 3 2 2 5 14 -9


Group D:
Kelssek 1 - 0 Septentrionia
Kolanderaz 2 - 1 Newmanistan


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Kelssek 4 1 0 8 10 3 7
2. Taeshan 3 1 1 7 11 5 6
3. Newmanistan 2 2 2 6 8 9 -1
4. Kolanderaz 2 4 0 4 5 10 -5
5. Septentrionia 1 4 1 3 6 13 -7


Colour legend for both tables:
Red: Out
Purple: Can only qualify from a playoffs spot
Orange: Assured of a playoffs spot
Green: Is qualified for the knockout phase

Clint Greene entered the locker room after the loss. It hit everyone hard, harder then anything a group of penguins possibly could have done. Maybe, they just didn’t match up well against this Kolanderaz squad. You see it all the time in hockey where one of the bottom feeders just always seems to have the number of one the top sides. Calling Newmanistan a top side, well, that could be a stretch, but you get the point. This group of Marshall Eagles from Kolanderaz has been beaten soundly by everyone in the group. Except Newmanistan. If the Rockets were able to do what everyone else was doing against this team, they’d be sitting pretty right now with a 4-0-2 record. But that is not the case. Newmanistan sits at a very average 2-2-2, and it’s a frustrating mark as sometimes they have looked good and other times very poorly. Maybe it’s a chemistry issue. You can’t necessarily take a bunch of the top players in your country and expect them to all click with one another. That may be what’s happening. But Clint Greene didn’t care. The row of hockey sticks so orderly kept by the equipment manager.... thrown onto the floor. A crate of towels. Tipped over. Anything Clint could get his hands on, was either going to be broken or knocked to the floor. As he was heading for one of the TV’s, fellow defensemen Kevin Regan was able to contain him, saving the TV, and trying to settle down his teammate.

Regan: Clint stop it! Stop it at once! Other teams use this locker room too!

Greene: (expletive) that Kevin! How the (expletive) do we lose to those people for the second time? They are nothing to us, and they beat us. Two (expletive) times.

Regan: We’re all pissed off about it, Clint. But this is not the answer. Sit down.

Curtis: Please Clint, sit down. (Greene shoves himself out of Regan’s grasp then sits down)

Meadows: We’re not scoring enough. We need to open it up. Enough of this defense crap.

Sanders: Yes some more goal support. One goal a game is not cutting it.

Meadows: We’re trying Craig, but we’re sitting back too much.

Greene: Sitting back? What the (expletive). We’re busting our tails off there on the blueline, what did we have before today. Two friggin shutouts. Maybe if you forwards could stick the puck in the net a little more then once a game we’d be winning more games.

Marchese: Maybe if you guys would get us the puck more with your breakout passes we would be able to score more.

Greene: Who the hell asked you.

Marchese: Even when we had the 4-goal game, what did you do. Sloppy in the back end.

Sanders: I take offense to that. That was an odd game, a weird game.

(Marchese and Greene stand up, as if ready to fight, even though if they did, it would be extremely one sided)

Curtis: STOP IT NOW OR I’M SENDING YOU BOTH HOME IMMEDIATELY!!!

Regan: Yeah guys come on chill, we’re supposed to be a team. Come on now. Fighting amongst ourselves is not the answer.

Curtis: Look at us. We’re a team, and we’re arguing and fighting. The last two days before today I have seen such high morale in this locker room. We cannot let one loss destroy that. Clint, what is that thing on your jersey?

Greene: A flag.

Curtis: And Alex?

Marchese: Our flag.

Curtis: That’s right. We’ve been brought together to represent Newmanistan as a team. I know there are passionate rivalries between the club sides that we play for and maybe that has something to do with this outburst but let’s look at the big picture. When you guys got the call telling you that you were named to Newmanistan’s first ever interregional hockey team. What went through your mind?

(Many players say something to the effect of they were happy)

Curtis: That’s right. It was a thrill. It may have been one of the biggest things to happen in your hockey careers. To be able to not just say that you were going to play for Newmanistan interregionally, but to be a part of Newmanistan’s first ever interregional hockey team. It was an honor.

(Pauses to let them reflect)

Curtis: When you got that call, you didn’t think about I wonder what kind of system we will play, or if we will score enough goals, or allow too many, or not get along with others. You just wanted to play hockey, and to be able to do it with some of the best hockey players that the Empire has to offer. You are doing that right now.

(Pauses again)

Curtis: We’ve played well. We had one frustrating loss, and look at you guys. Now, I have a question. Is this game going to kill us or make us stronger? Huh? What is it?

Regan (before everyone else): Stronger!

Team: Make us stronger!

Regan: SAY IT AGAIN!

Team: Make us stronger!

Curtis: Who are we?!

Team: ROCKETS!

Curtis: Huddle up. Rockets on three. 1... 2...

Team: ROCKETS!!!

OSN Nightly Report
Fitness Key to Orion Success
By WILLIAM DRAKE
Sports - Page 1

As the Orion Fenrirs enjoy a 4-1-1 record and a first place lead in their group in the World Cup of Hockey, a few players, notably Assistant Captains Adrian Winters and James Julian, claim it is because of state of the art workout routines and nutrition. While many pro athletes look like big hulking men, Winters, Julian, and newcomers Eric Stark and August Dietmar look more like cover models for fitness magazines.

“You can lift all you want,” Winters, who has appeared shirtless (http://209.85.48.8/237/117/upload/p701930.jpg) on the cover of countless magazines back in Orion, told the media. “But if you don’t eat and drink right, you’re just going to look big, not cut or strong.”

“In the off-season, we do two-a-days in the gym, and we eat six small meals a day,” Julian admitted, his lean biceps bulging out from under his shirt. “We’ve been doing this for three years now.”

“I met Adrian and James two years ago at a pro day back in juniors,” Eric Stark remembered. “They really left an impression on me. August and I got together later that year and decided to give it a try. I haven’t looked back.”

The routine seems to be working, and the results can’t be argued. All four men have world-class physiques, and all four have talents that far surpass looks. Winters and Julian are the two most productive players on the Orion roster, and Stark and Dietmar are both former juniors MVP.

As Orion gets set to take on Qazox tonight, look for these four Spartan-looking stars to make a serious impact.

[OOC: RP #3 since last game, if you're counting. I'm not sure how you manage your RP bonus, but just in case quantity is taken into account...]

its been a great cup for the Purple Knights hockey team even though nothing has been said about the team in the times. I think theres this whole conspiracy in the Times were they dont report on the Knights anymore and we might win something. I doubt it but anyways there doing good anyways.

Plutoni national ice hockey blog: WCoH 6, Matchday 16

Point taken.

Plutoni drew again, doubling their overall success. This tie came against third seeds Candelaria And Marquez, who now lead the group. The Blue Hard Vulcanised Rubber Discs were tied with Green Wombat for the highest third seed, while Quakmybush, which Plutoni also tied, was the highest second seed. (Plutoni was the lowest first seed.) Meanwhile, Plutoni lost to the unranked teams by a combined score of nine goals to three.

It's been that kind of a tournament.

Candelaria And Marquez scored in the first period, through Bala Ebûssüûd, who received an accurate pass from Daniel Oudin. Plutoni mounted their first (successful, anyhow) rally of the tournament in the second period, when Tyler Tilde flipped the puck to Andre Asterisk, who wedged it into the goal.

It was a somber atmosphere in Septentrionalis, with Candelariasian fans rather sparse and their Plutonian counterparts disappointed in this team's performance. Rather ridiculously, they remain in mathematical contention to even win the group, though a playoff spot is a more reasonable hope.

Comments:
1. totalvictor: If this were baseball, tie would go to the runner.
2. delayed_miracle [1] And we're the runners. Two points out of the last three matches? As close to momentum as we're getting.
3. Alber_Adam: I can't tell which is the better question: who can care about hockey at a time like this, or who can care about hockey at all.
4. icebaby: [3] The first, certainly, as the answer to the second is evident.
5. mrdude: hey i care about hockey!!12121

Matchday 17:

Group A:
Lovisa 1 - 0 United Hertzel
Qazox 2 - 0 Steel Butterfly


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Qazox 4 1 1 9 13 5 8
2. Steel Butterfly 4 2 1 9 10 8 2
3. Lovisa 3 2 1 7 12 8 4
4. United Hertzel 1 4 2 4 10 13 -3
5. Jeruselem 1 4 1 3 5 16 -11


Group B:
Prux 1 - 3 Kose and the Turkomans
Elves Security Forces 1 - 1 Kenavt


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Elves Security Forces 5 0 1 11 18 2 16
2. Kose and the Turkomans 3 2 2 8 14 15 -1
3. Kenavt 1 2 4 6 11 14 -3
4. Green Wombat 1 3 2 4 4 12 -8
5. Prux 1 4 1 3 8 12 -4


Colour legend for both tables:
Red: Out
Purple: Can only qualify from a playoffs spot
Orange: Assured of a playoffs spot
Green: Qualified for the Quarter-finals

[OOC: RP to come later unless Qazox takes it, but how did I go from being assured a playoff spot to not being?]

[OOC: RP to come later unless Qazox takes it, but how did I go from being assured a playoff spot to not being?]

(OOC: Lovisa has 2 games left, while you have 1, theoretically, Lovisa can pass you even if you win your last match. and My RP to come shortly)

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and joining me tonight is Norris Smythe and returning from a bout with the flu is Patrick Campbell. Qazox avenged its previous loss to the Orion Star Empire, as Steel Butterfly has decreed they should now be called with a 2-0 win, that has almost wrapped up a playoff berth for the Pheonix. Patrick, what did Qazox do differently this time around?"

Campbell:
"They got physical. Plain and simple, they switched the lines up a bit and outworked the OSE. Asikei and Freeman on the 2nd line was a move that Jack Kiril couldn't counter and it worked almost perfectly."

Smythe:
"Yes, almost perfectly, but the real reason why Qazox won was putting James Huett in the crease, as Maaten had played the previous 5 matches with out a break. Now Oscar Maresca has a choice to continue to rest Maaten and allow Huett to continue to play.

Wales:
"So leading into the next match against Lovisa, do the Pheonix clinch?"

Smythe:
"They should. they only need a draw, and they'll get at least that."

Campbell:
"They'll win by 3 or 4 goals, putting pressure on the Fenrirs to win to keep pace."

Wales:
"Ok. For those of you that either missed the game or tuned in late, here is the scoring summary for the game:"



TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 1 0 1 2
T.O.S.E 0 0 0 0

FIRST PERIOD
Qazox -Goal: Barry Freeman (5:41), assisted by: Asikei and Harven
Qazox- Penalty: Derek Caperton (Boarding 7:23)
T.O.S.E- Penalty: Maksim Diemchuk (Cross-Checking 10:06)
T.O.S.E- Penalty: Taras Talas (Fighting 17:28)
Qazox- Penalty: Richard Hansen (Fighting 17:28)

SECOND PERIOD
Qazox- Penalty: Jerome Leventhal (Slashing 1:11)
T.O.S.E- Penalty: Alexei Zeitzev (Cross-Checking 4:59)
T.O.S.E- Penalty: Shurik Sidorov (Delay of game 11:05)
Qazox- Penalty: Leon Soltero (High-sticking 15:07)

THIRD PERIOD
Qazox- Penalty: Derek Caperton (Tripping 8:39)
T.O.S.E- Penalty: Gennady Alekseev (Cross-Checking 13:40)
Qazox- Goal (EN) Michael Zabov (19:41) assisted by: Fahey

TOTAL SHOTS
TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 10 13 8 31
T.O.S.E 9 13 7 29
POWERPLAY
Qazox- 0/4
T.O.S.E- 0/4

(OOC: Lovisa has 2 games left, while you have 1, theoretically, Lovisa can pass you even if you win your last match. and My RP to come shortly)

[OOC: Ok, but then I shouldn't have been "assured" a playoff spot previously.]

[OOC: Ok, but then I shouldn't have been "assured" a playoff spot previously.]

(OOC: You were.)

Bob: Well that idea didn't work. You know what, let's just cut our losses and get back home.

Brian: Fine by me. We're 3 points out with 2 left and unless we win both and Kenvnt loses and the wombats lose, we're still knocked out.

Bob: Bye Septentrionia, hello Pawtucket!

(ooc: I'm just going to give up... this tourney is DRAGGGGGGGGGING on way too long, IMHO. and I got other things to do this week. Sorry all and go anyone but ESF or Qazox for the title.)

(OOC: You were.)

[OOC: Now I am again...lol...and Lovisa can't pass me even if I win. If I win my next game, and Lovisa wins their next two, we both end up with 11 points, and I hold the tie-breaker.]

IC:

Drake:
“Hello I’m William Drake and welcome to OSN Primetime©, Orion’s own Sports Network. Joining me on this disappointing evening is my co-host John Stone, as well as OBC sports reporter Sydney Fry.”

Stone:
“Orion was plastered tonight by Qazox, losing 2-0 in a game where they really needed a tie.”

Fry:
“Arkady Nikitin did not have a spectacular day, but you can’t blame this one entirely on him. The offense was simply miserable in this performance. It’s the second game in a row where no winger or center for Orion has been able to score against Qazox. If you remember, defender James Julian scored the Fenrirs’ only goal in the last outing.”

Stone:
“Yeah, perhaps Adrian Winters should stop focusing on posing shirtless and eating 6 small meals a day and get his ass on the ice and practice shooting the puck into the net instead.”

Drake:
“Another noteworthy thing is the amount of stupid penalties on the Fenrirs part. Other than the occasional fights, Orion has been a very disciplined team this entire tournament.”

Fry:
“Yes but with two cross checking penalties and one for delay of game of all things, Orion played stupid today.”

Stone:
“That and they went 0-4 on the powerplay. With this offense that is nothing short of inexcusable.”

Drake:
“So now we look on to the next game against Jeruselem, who beat Orion last time in a similarly poorly played game by the Fenrirs.”

Fry:
“Orion can’t afford to go 2-2-0 in the second half. Even a 2-1-1 record like the first half would be cutting it awfully too close. This is, in all intents and purposes, Orion’s first must-win game of the cup.”

Stone:
“Yes, I know they all talked about playing Qazox like it was a playoff game but really that was just rhetoric. This is their first big game, and their last game before the playoffs start. They need a win here.”
Drake:
“It would also be nice if Qazox beat Lovisa. I know that would leave us in 2nd, but it would give us a guaranteed spot in the playoffs.”

Stone:
“If they tie, however, and we win, it still could turn out better for us in the long-run.”

Fry:
“I think we can all agree though that we don’t want Lovisa to win.”

Drake:
“Really though, we have the tie-breaker against them either way. I’m not too worried about getting to the playoffs, I’m just worried about being able to win in them. Orion’s shown they can play at a level as high as anyone. Now they just need to be a bit more consistent about it.

I’m William Drake,”

Stone:
“I’m John Stone,”

Together:
“And this is OSN Primetime©!”

Fry:
“Goodnight, Orion.”

Matchday 18

Group C:
Quakmybush 1 - 1 Pablicosta
Plutoni 2 - 2 Gwaine


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Candelaria and Marquez 3 1 2 8 13 5 8
2. Gwaine 2 1 4 8 13 11 2
3. Quakmybush 1 0 5 7 8 6 2
4. Pablicosta 2 3 2 6 9 12 -3
5. Plutoni 0 3 3 3 7 16 -9


Group D:
Taeshan 1 - 2 Newmanistan
Kelssek 3 - 1 Kolanderaz


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Kelssek 5 1 0 10 13 4 9
2. Newmanistan 3 2 2 8 10 10 0
3. Taeshan 3 2 1 7 12 7 5
4. Kolanderaz 2 5 0 4 6 13 -7
5. Septentrionia 1 4 1 3 6 13 -7


Colour legend for both tables:
Red: Out
Purple: Can only qualify from a playoffs spot
Orange: Assured of a playoffs spot
Green: Qualified for the Quarter-finals

Drake:
“Hello I’m William Drake and welcome to OSN Primetime©, Orion’s own Sports Network. Tonight, in the wake of the biggest game of the Cup for the Fenrirs so far, we have a special interview with team captain Alexei Zeitzev.”

Footage rolls.

Drake:
“Alexei, you fought for years for Orion to gain entry to international hockey competition. How does it feel, now at the end of your long storied career, to not only achieve that goal, but to be the captain of the national team.”

Alexei:
“It’s both an honor and a relief. I had hoped that we would see international play in my lifetime, but it really wasn’t looking good. Then, Coach Kiril came up to me and said that part of Director Esthar’s new international plan included sporting teams, and I just jumped at the occasion.”

Drake:
“Your contribution to this team has been undeniable. But how does it feel to be somewhat upstaged by your assistant captains, Adrian Winters and James Julian?”

Alexei:
“You know, I take it in stride. I was that young talented player at one time, and I hated how the established stars looked down on me for no reason other than my age. Really though, this is how it should be. It’s a passing of a torch, and I’m just glad that there are people worthy of holding it up.”

Drake:
“What about the players who are even younger, like Eric Stark and August Dietmar?”

Alexei:
“Chris [Mitchell] and I were joking around about this the other day. Those two were us two when we got into this league. Similar players with similar achievements, but most importantly similar enormous expectations. I think it’s great, and when Adrian and James are in my position, Eric and August will be who they will pass the torch to.”

Drake:
“With powerhouses like Elves Security Force and Kelssek out there, including Qazox in your own group, how far do you think Orion can realistically go in the playoffs?”

Alexei:
“Will, I’m going to be as blunt as I can be. We can win this thing. You just named three teams who you thought were better than us. That means we should at least make the final four. After that, with a lot of heart and a lot of luck, not to mention all the momentum we’d be riding on, we could will two games from these teams. And if they’re not playing at their best, who knows what could happen.”

Drake:
“So you could beat Elves Security Forces?”

Alexei:
”If Kenavt can tie them, we can beat them. We slaughtered Kenavt, if you remember.”

Drake:
“Care to give us a score?”

Alexei (laughing):
“Two to one. If we win this cup, it’ll be thanks to James and the defense.”

Drake:
“Who scores for Orion?”

Alexei:
“Who knows, but you can bet your ass I’ll have both assists.”

Footage ends

Drake:
“One thing’s for sure, Orion is certainly not short on confidence. I’m William Drake, and this is OSN© Primetime. I’ll see you along side John Stone and Sydney Fry after the game. Take care, and go Fenrirs!”

"Have you been hearing all that crap that Steel Butterfly has been talking?" Findecáno Elanessë addressed his commentating partner.

"Aye, I have. Can you blame them though? They are new to the scene and yet they are having great success in the tournament. It's just thier human nature to bo so boastful after having instant gratification without much of a stumbling block put before them." The calm Elwë Ciryatan surmised.

"I'll give you that, yet I still find their entire attitude towards their superiors as very disrespectful. To bo so bold as to predict a championship and wins over us after a mere draw is a slap in the face to all those above them. It is niether sporting nor needed in the tournament. It's boasts like that that tend to cause brawls and this tournament certainly does not need one of those."

"No it certainly doesn't! We just need to let the events unfold as they will Findecáno, and do our best to capture the moment. We need not to fall to the petty levels that the humans too often display. We're elves my friend, we're supposed to be above such irrational boasts and displays. If you find yourself still irritated, just think about how Elune would react, and then do so. If even then you still find yourself on the red, then simply see the skill of the Calcutta squad and how they have performed in the tournament. Trust in the natural order of things, and be at peace my friend."

"I will try Elwë. I can make no gurantees that thier disespectful attitude wont rile me up again, but I will try to be above the irritations. If for nothing else, I owe it to the viewers to be the most level-headed I can be, to deliverr them the best commentary do I not?"

"That you do. Now, let's have our dinner before it's time to ply our trade shall we? I've got the Oure de Tavei iced down, so we shall be treated nicely."

Before I unveil the results, I have to tell something:

1) As Prux effectively withdrew, games against them are automatic 3-0 wins for the team facing them. 2 points will be removed from them for every MD left. After the last MD, they'll effectively be at -1

Matchday 19:

Group A:
Jeruselem 3 - 0 Steel Butterfly
Lovisa 0 - 1 Qazox


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Qazox 5 1 1 11 14 5 9
2. Steel Butterfly 4 3 1 9 10 11 -1
3. Lovisa 3 3 1 7 12 9 3
4. Jeruselem 2 4 1 5 8 16 -8
5. United Hertzel 1 4 2 4 10 13 -3

Group B:
Green Wombat 4 - 3 Kenavt
Prux 3 - 0 Elves Security Forces


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Elves Security Forces 6 0 1 13 21 2 19
2. Kose and the Turkomans 3 2 2 8 14 15 -1
3. Green Wombat 2 3 2 6 8 15 -7
4. Kenavt 1 3 4 6 14 18 -4
5. Prux 1 5 1 1 8 15 -7


Colour legend for both tables:
Red: Out
Purple: Can only qualify from a playoffs spot
Orange: Assured of a playoffs spot
Green: Qualified for the Quarter-finals

OOC: Ouch

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and joining me tonight is Norris Smythe and Patrick Campbell. Qazox clinched not only a playoff berth, but the group after a 1-0 win over Lovisa and a stunning 0-3 loss by Orion Star Empire to Jeruselem. So Norris, what do the Pheonix do in the last match?"

Smythe:
"Rest up. Why not? They proved they are the best team in the group and they deserve it."

Campbell:
"Play full out. Why? 'Cause they have clinched a couple extra days of rest before teh next round, so use the next match as a scrimmage or a full-speed practice, and try to improve their seeding for the knockouts."

Wales:
"Ok. For those of you that either missed the game or tuned in late, here is the scoring summary for the game:"



TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Lovisa 0 0 0 0
Qazox 0 1 0 1

FIRST PERIOD
NONE

SECOND PERIOD
Qazox- Goal (5:07) Brian Caulder (3), Assisted by: Guercio

THIRD PERIOD
NONE

TOTAL SHOTS
TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Lovisa 4 7 7 18
Qazox 6 9 7 22

POWERPLAY
Lovisa 0/0
Qazox- 0/0

THE ROCKET REPORT

BIG WIN KEEPS HOPES ALIVE

Septentrionia- After losing, again, to Kolanderaz, there was only one acceptable result for the Rockets as they took to the ice against Taeshan. No more time for ties, and certainly no more losses. The Empire just sat back and wondered just how their hockey heroes would respond to such a devastating loss in a game here that was critical. When they met prior, the goal judges got a workout turning on the red light, but here things needed to be different. Newmanistan needed to win. Nothing else.

Despite calls from fans and media to open up the game a little more, the Rockets started the game with what they’ve been doing all along, being patient and smart defensively. After having played so well defensively in all but their previous game against the Purple Knights, the focus was apparent. It was a slow pace to start, with the fans not getting plenty to get excited about with the exception of a few bone crushing hits, delivered by Kevin Regan and Todd McKinley. With the game still scoreless eleven minutes in, Slick Deringer took a run at Alex Marchese knocking him hard into the boards. Clint Greene took exception to this, and the gloves went flying. The fight, was a mismatch, and Deringer had a huge cut over his right eye as Greene pumped his fists towards cheering Rockets fans. It was the highlight of the period. After one, no goals, and the Rockets outshooting the Purple Knights, if you can call it that, by a 5-4 margin.

In the middle stanza, the Rockets continued to do more of the same, and the Purple Knights seemed to be getting a little frustrated by it. Their passing started getting sloppy, and in general looked very out of sync. Sensing this, the Rockets changed their focus a little bit. Now, it was time to push for that first goal of the game. Robert Curtis mixed up the lines quite a bit early in the period to get his best scorers out on the ice, including the team’s top offensive defensemen. It took a few minutes, but around the seven minute mark, the ice was completely slanted in favor of the Rockets. It was coming, and if not for some good goaltending by Anyele Borreman, wearing the unusual number of 3 for a goalie, the Rockets may have led about 3-0 midway through. But they would just get one as behind the net Jean-Pierre Desjardins freed a puck pinned up against the board by a Knights defensemen and got the puck to Kevin Reschke, who snuck the puck through the five-hole to give the Rockets the lead. Reschke from Desjardins at 10:14, officially. The offensive focus remained, but the Purple Knights seemed to answer with a few good oppotunties of their own until defensemen Smitty Myers was caught up ice, leading to a 2-on-1 break for Alex Marchese and Scott Meadows. After a couple nice passes, it was Marchese utlimately feeding Meadows who put it just underneath the crossbar to put the Rockets up in front 2-nothing. Officially, Meadows from Marchese and Stewart at 16:40. The Rockets pushed for more, but would not score again. But with a two goal lead after two period, things looked good. Newmanistan held a huge shot advantage in this period, 17-4, and now were outshooting Taeshan 22-8 in the game.

It shouldn’t have come as a surprise that with a two goal lead entering the third period that the normally defensive Rockets clamped back down in their own end into an ultra-conservative mode. The Purple Knights knew what they had to do, they just couldn’t do it. They could not skate the puck over the blue line, as they were repeatedly being stood up by the Newmanistan defense, and when they tried to play dump and chase, the Rockets were getting the puck and clearing it. As long as it was running time off the clock, that’s all that matters. There was nothing Taeshan could do. They were tired and frustrated. At the 19:04 mark, with the game pretty much wrapped up, the Purple Knights broke Craig Sanders bid for a third shutout in the tournament with Nadin Baker getting a garbage goal in front of the net. It made the last minute of the game somewhat intense, but when Steve Meadows won the ensuing faceoff and dumped it in, the Purple Knights could not get Borreman off the ice. The Rockets would win, 2-1. Taeshan outshot the Rockets 7-4 in the period with Newmanistan getting more overall shots, 26-15.


The win improves Newmanistan’s record to 3-2-2 with only one game remaining, which is against Kelssek. The Rockets sit in third place, and according to my calculations have clinched, at minimum, a playoff spot. (OOC: Kolanderaz is eliminated, are they not? And Septentrionia can’t catch Newmanistan).


Here are our three stars of the game:
3) Craig Sanders, 15 shots, 14 saves
2) Scott Meadows, 1G, 6 SOG
1) Kevin Regan, +1, excellent defensively

Jeruselem Government News

Sister Marsha's team pull of a miracle win

At the World Cup of Hockey 6, Jeruselem seemed destined to get smashed and thrown to the bottom of Group A. With just one win - it looked all over. The win was against 2nd placed Steel Butterfly.

Once against the team faced Steel Butterfly who seemed to be quite comfortable behind Qazox. Our rookie coached by a Nun who also plays football pulled off a 3-0 win. This lifted them off being last and gave them a chance to make the play-off!

The rookie team who were supposed to be terrible have proved to be a bit of pain. While Qazox have no issues with our team in hockey, SB seem to struggle against Sister Marsha's team of rookies.

The good sister is doing a great job with this team. Maybe her four years with the world Cup 40 team have made her a real coach and she can now handle real challenges like hockey which isn't even mentioned as sport in Jeruselem.

On the sidelines, Sister Marsha has removed the habit and donned gear from Dazza Dallas owned stores. She's still a Nun but she doesn't look like one when she's coaching. Voted Jeruselem's sexiest Nun, Sister Marsha is surely more than a pretty face. She's no Dallas but God has given her the looks to get the all-male team motivated.

Plutoni national ice hockey blog: WCoH 6, Matchday 18

Goals!

Plutoni scored! Twice! What more need be said?

Well, Gwaine did as well, opening the scoring with a 4-on-4 goal from RJ Utlens, but Plutoni tied it up before the end of the first period with a Connor Caret goal. Goalie Mark Biris was less than exceptional, though his talent was undeniable: Stanley Space scored for Plutoni in the second period. But Gwaine would rally back for the tie, as veteran left wing Kevin Primeau scored in the final minutes.

Plutoni are theoretically eliminated from winning the group (and in truth, have been in practice for some time). They next play Quakmybush: on paper, the toughest test, but Plutoni did eke out a draw in the first half.

For all the Plutonian struggles, the defending champions have been even more futile. The Prux walruses have withdrawn from the tournament after a 1-4-1 start (hey, at least they won), and will forfeit their remaining matches.

Comments:
1. freebored: how much longer is this gujnna last/?
2. delayed_miracle: [1] What's your problem? At least Plutoni are making a fight of it now.
3. freebored: yah it's a real accomplishment to tie the last seeds. yep.
4. icebaby: [2] "What's your problem?" I'm guessing sanity.
5. seb: Does Julian Lobachevsky read this blog?

The Albrecht Herald Online>Sport>Other>In Brief>Really In Brief>Briefest as Brief Can Be

They didn’t even show the game on TTO Sport, with the network accepting that going up against the Albrecht Turkish versus Port of Clotaire CMS Cup semi-final clash in Caires was pointless, and TTO itself showing the long-awaited season finale of Capybara Castle.

But there was at least one household in C&M willing to brave the manly umlauts and cedillas of the K&TT coverage of the game on a dodgy feed (we would tell anyone if you don’t). The extended family and neighbours of Bala Ebûssüûd assembled at the family home in Songstress to watch their boy take it to the world; a genuine, home-grown Albrecht hero proving against some of the world’s finest hockey-playing nations of the icy kind that this country can, without any funding or public support, produce world-class international competitors.

Those who did watch the match back in the Candelarias may have understood little of the rules, never mind the tactical and technical particulars; but the form of Ebûssüûd against an admittedly below-par Plutoni outfit was something to savour. If the Blue Hard Vulcanised Rubber Discs ultimately owed their point from a one-one tie to ‘keeper Ocean Madiga, the Plutonians had their own man between the… sticks?... to thank for stopping Ebûssüûd from enhancing his burgeoning international reputation even further.

“He’s player of the tournament so far, as far as I’m concerned,” neighbour Hayati Kahraman rather ambitiously told me as the game progressed, “and there’s not a single man, woman or child in Songstress now who doesn’t know about his escapades over there in Septen… Sep… Trentro… Anyway; it’s such a tense time right now, when you can’t walk down the street without seeing half a dozen armed policemen, but it’s really put a lift in everyone’s step to see him out there.”

The exploits of Ebûssüûd and his colleagues haven’t quite captured the public imagination just yet, but childhood friend Sam Payne believes it’s only a matter of time. “Nobody really cared about the field hockey much, until we started to get good at that. If we beat Gwaine this time we’ll pretty much be home and dry into the next round, and then people are really going to sit up and take notice.” As for Ebûssüûd, Payne had no doubts that he would make it eventually. “Bal was always going to be a star. He had trials with Albrecht, the Capital City Panthers had him on their books for a while, he was captain of our school cricket team… He could’ve earned much more from any of those sports, but he’d played ice hockey down at the rinks in Magnus and that was always his first love.”

Victory against Gwaine is far from a forgone conclusion, but despite the defeat in the previous fixture C&M may now be mild favourites. A win would give Seb Mulrooney’s men an automatic play-off spot, and have them dreaming of further success, but greater challenges lay in their way than this weak group. With reigning champions Prux effectively out of the tournament after their bizarre withdrawal, Kelssek and Qazox now take on the mantel of the great hockey-playing nations. More exotic options include the so-far undefeated Eesseffians, the Orion Empire, and what would be a clash to savour against Kose and the Turkomans.

Matchday 20:

Group C:
Candelaria and Marquez 1 - 1 Gwaine
Quakmybush 0 - 0 Plutoni


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Candelaria and Marquez 3 1 3 9 14 6 8
2. Gwaine 2 1 5 9 14 12 2
3. Quakmybush 1 0 6 8 8 6 2
4. Pablicosta 2 3 2 6 9 12 -3
5. Plutoni 0 3 4 4 7 16 -9


Group D:
Septentrionia 1 - 0 Kolanderaz
Taeshan 0 - 1 Kelssek


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Kelssek 6 1 0 12 14 4 10
2. Newmanistan 3 2 2 8 10 10 0
3. Taeshan 3 3 1 7 12 8 4
4. Septentrionia 2 4 1 5 7 13 -6
5. Kolanderaz 2 6 0 4 6 14 -8


Colour legend for both tables:
Red: Out
Purple: Can only qualify from a playoffs spot
Orange: Assured of a playoffs spot
Green: Qualified for the Quarter-finals

Joe Baggs WCoH Blog.

Holy crap. until yesterday this pathetic excuse for a team had only scored 4 goals in 6 matches. Until yesterday that is, as they WON, (i know a big suprise in and of itself) 4-3 over Kenavt and thanks to Prux just giving up and going home, we are all but assured of being in the playoffs. Which of course means we'll be paired off witht he best 2nd place team, probably and get our asses kicked, definately. But the real bad news is now that they are basically in the playoffs, i have to be stuck here for another week.

THE ROCKET REPORT

ROCKETS, BLUELEAFS LIKELY TO EXPERIMENT

Septentrionia- Both Newmanistan and Kelssek already know what they’ll be doing once this game is over. For Newmanistan, they will be in the first round against an opponent to be determined. They earned this right by virtue of their win against Taeshan, and can finish no worse then third. Whether you finish second or third is really pretty insignificant given that there is no home ice advantage at stake, and we all know that anything can happen on any given night in hockey, so you can analyze who the Rockets match up against best until your blue in the face, it just really doesn’t matter. In one game, anything can happen. Kelssek has already clinched the group. When the first round begins, they’ll be relaxing comfortably and resting up for their quarterfinal matchup.

There will be bigger games played around the World Cup of Hockey. Septentrionia vs Taeshan is absolutely critical. Newmanistan vs Kelssek? Not as much so, and in fact, probably not at all. The teams will be playing for pride, and a motivational factor for them will be to avenge their only defeat in the group stage. But that’s not that big of a deal for them as the Blueleafs are well aware of what is truly important. Therefore, we look for Robert Curtis and the Kelssek head coach to do some experimental line shuffling, or give a few of their people that haven’t yet played in the tournament a chance to get in on the action. The announcement has already started with Curtis announcing that the Rockets will be starting Marty Bronstein in goal tonight, and not Craig Sanders. That might take some wind of the Blueleafs “redemption” sails since Sanders shut them out earlier. Also Newmanistan has announced the following regular starting defensemen will be a healthy scratch: Kevin Regan, Jake Trombley, and Vladimir Rusmentov. In their place, Jason Conlin, Christian Nadeau, and Mikko Viitalianen will see their first action of the tournament. And as far as the forwards are concerned, Scott Meadows, Alex Marchese, Kevin Reschke, Jean-Pierre Desjardins, and Dan Stover, all regular players, will also be healthy scratches for this game. Pierre Chalifoux, Todd Henry, Steve Picotte, Evan Gates, and Daniel Nielsson will play. The end result will actually be a quicker lineup. Curtis will be pairing the youngsters Chalifoux, Henry, and Gates, all of whom are finesse style players and will aim to get them 15-18 minutes of ice time.


As for these changes, Robert Curtis’ response may have been somewhat predictable, but here it is, “We know that we’re in the playoffs, and that we’re not going to win the group. So we’re going to rest up our key players here with the hope that they will be real fresh for the first round game. In a sense, many of these players are going to have a “double bye” (Newmanistan is coming off their bye game right before this), so we may have a considerable advantage when the first round game starts as far as stamina and in preparation. It should work well for us, especially since it is a winner take all game. Plus, we’re giving all the kids now a chance to play in a game. All of these players were named to the national team for a reason, so really, we don’t really feel there is that much of a drop in class for this game.”

It might not be the most fun strategy, but it is certainly the most logical. While you want to win them all, you must look at the big picture, and realize that there is really not much at stake here. You don’t want to get anyone injured in a game like this. We haven’t yet heard if Kelssek will do the same kind of thing, but it wouldn’t surprise us.

Plutoni national ice hockey blog: WCoH 6, Matchday 20

Goals?

There were four of them in the four matches played. None of them came in Plutoni's game. While Septentrionia downed Kolanderaz, Kelssek edged out Taeshan, and Candelaria And Marquez and Gwaine scored once each, Plutoni and Quakmybush played to a scoreless draw, eliminating a team once predicted to be finalists from contention.

Quakmybush have been the defensive team of this tournament, but seemed shaky early on. Their homeland, in fact, ceased to exist several days ago but was resurrected. Despite these early nerves, Plutoni weren't nervy at all (encouraging news, perhaps), and settled into the defensive outlook their opponents espoused. Seven minutes in, Oliver Obelisk flicked the first shot on goal of the game, which the Quakmybush goalie duly stopped. His counterpart Ulrich Umlaut was kept mildly busier but proved up to the task.

Plutoni got a power play in the second period, but the emptier ice led to even less action. During the third, the defenders really shone, with Benny Bracket halting some last-ditch attacks. Quakmybush have their fate farther up in the air than any team: they could do anything from winning the group to failing to make the playoffs. Plutoni, for their part, have destiny in their hands: they play Pablicosta, the only team they can catch on points. Mind you, they'd need to win by six or seven to make up the goal differential, so a vault out of the cellar might be a bit too much to ask. Then again, we're not sure of the tiebreakers...

Comments:
1. delayed_miracle: Hey, we've lost fewer games than we haven't. Couldn't have seen that coming a while ago.
2. mrdude: this sukx lets at least hav goals that was boring
3. icebaby [2] "That was boring": Actually, for this side to play a boring match seems rather impressive.
4. delayed_miracle: The sad thing is, I think the team really did think they could go on. At least now there's no pressure, they might be able to put together a win now that it doesn't matter.
5. seb: I counted five...

I've made a decision about this WCoH's MD:

As most groups are settled and everyone wants to see their results the quickest possible, I'm going to post all 4 groups right now. I'm also going to post the first round draws right now. I'll take this opportunity to thank all those who have been eliminated for their participation in this World Cup of Hockey. I hope they liked their experience in Septentrionia and that they won't be reluctant to come once again, should there be another important event hosted in the nation.

And now: The Final Matchday of the Sixth World Cup of Hockey results:

Group A:
United Hertzel 0 - 1 Qazox
Jeruselem 2 - 4 Lovisa


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Qazox 6 1 1 13 15 5 10
2. Lovisa 4 3 1 9 16 11 5
3. Steel Butterfly 4 3 1 9 10 11 -1
4. Jeruselem 2 5 1 5 10 20 -10
5. United Hertzel 1 5 2 4 10 14 -4


Group B:
Kose and the Turkomans 1 - 5 Elves Security Forces
Green Wombat 3 - 0 Prux


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Elves Security Forces 7 0 1 15 26 3 23
2. Kose and the Turkomans 3 3 2 8 15 20 -5
3. Green Wombat 3 3 2 8 11 16 -5
4. Kenavt 1 3 4 6 14 18 -4
5. Prux 1 6 1 -3 8 18 -10


Group C:
Pablicosta 1 - 1 Plutoni
Candelaria and Marquez 1 - 1 Quakmybush


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Candelaria and Marquez 3 1 4 10 15 7 8
2. Gwaine 2 1 5 9 14 12 2
3. Quakmybush 1 0 7 9 9 7 2
4. Pablicosta 2 3 3 7 10 13 -3
5. Plutoni 0 3 5 5 8 17 -9


Group D:
Newmanistan 0 - 2 Kelssek
Septentrionia 1 - 0 Taeshan


P. Team W L T Pts GF GA GD
--------------------------------------------------------------
1. Kelssek 7 1 0 14 16 4 12
2. Newmanistan 3 3 2 8 10 12 -2
3. Taeshan 3 4 1 7 12 9 3
4. Septentrionia 3 4 1 7 8 13 -5
5. Kolanderaz 2 6 0 4 6 14 -8


Colour legend for both tables:
Red: Out
Orange: Assured of a playoffs spot
Green: Qualified for the Quarter-finals

Now, the matchups for the first playoffs round. Remember that the first placed team gets a bye to the Quarterfinals. What I've done to make the games was to basically place the 2nd placed teams together and the 3rd placed teams together and pick one nation from each. The same format will be used in the Quarterfinals. It's now time to unveil who plays who:

Gwaine - Taeshan @ Aréna 1093, Ourseville
Lovisa - Green Wombat @ Centre Métropolitain, Septentrionalis
Kose and the Turkomans - Steel Butterfly @ Aréna 1093, Ourseville
Newmanistan - Quakmybush @ Centre Métropolitain, Septentrionalis

Good luck to each and every team still in the cup and we hope that those who got eliminated will come back

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and joining me tonight is Norris Smythe and Patrick Campbell. Qazox finished the 2nd half of qualifying 4-0-0, earning the group title and a bye into the quarterfinals. The score versus United Hertzel was 1-0 as Oscar Maresca rested most of the starters. Was that a good idea, Patrick?"

Campbell:
"I still say no. It sets a bad tone as the team might come out sluggish in the next game."

Smythe:
"What a bunch of baloney! They needed the rest, as every other team in the group had a day off before them and now they can prepare for the next round."

Wales:
"Speaking of the next round, the playin round features a couple of interesting matchups. Which of the four will be the best, Norris?

Smythe:
"The Kose and the Turkomans v. the Orion Star Empire match. The Fenrirs gave us two good matches, and despite losing their last three games, they are the dark horse in the field, and this match will be a classic."

Campbell:
"That will be a nice match, but the Newmanistan-Quakmybush match intrigues me most. An up and coming team vs. former champions trying hard to hold on to their history, I guarentee you that one will go to Overtime."

Wales:
"So guys, your predictions for the play-in round, and any upsets?"

Campbell:
"Newmanistan in OT, The Orion Star Empire, Green wombat, and my upset Gwaine over Taeshan."

Smythe:
"Newmanistan, The Orion Star Empire, taeshan and Lovisa not upsets here."

Wales:
"Ok. For those of you that either missed the game or tuned in late, here is the scoring summary for the game:"



TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
United Hertzel 0 0 0 0
Qazox 1 0 0 1

FIRST PERIOD
Qazox- Goal (5:07) Jerome Leventhal, Assisted by: Jim Musial and Alvin Gutshall

SECOND PERIOD
NONE

THIRD PERIOD
NONE

TOTAL SHOTS
TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
U. H. 8 6 7 21
Qazox 8 5 9 22

POWERPLAY
United Hertzel- 0/0
Qazox- 0/0

Joe Baggs WCoH Blog.

Forfeit. Best 7-letter word in the dictionary. We "beat" Prux 3-0, in a game we didn't even show up for, as Prux was already back home. So we got a goal each period and how fair is that? I mean they could've let the team play with an open net, heck maybe they'd only get 1 or 2 goals in, right?

So now we have to face Lovisa int he next round, and they gave Qazox fits and beat Steel Butterfly, the talk of the tourney, so we'll lose like 4-1, and the lone goal will probably be accidently knocked in by a lovisa player.

OOC: Lovisa didn't beat me by the way ;)

THE ROCKET REPORT

ROCKETS LOSE; PREPARE FOR KNOCKOUTS

Septentrionia- It’s a shame that there wasn’t much at stake in the game this evening between Newmanistan and Kelssek. Had the teams been playing for first place in the group, things could have been very exciting, but due to inconsistencies in this World Cup of Hockey, Newmanistan could never seriously challenge the Blueleafs for the Group title. Kelssek is strong, and certainly proved that they are one of the favorites for the coveted Cup. Valanora may be listed as the top contender, but don’t count out these Blueleafs. On the ice, Kelssek was determined to set the tone, and in scoring two goals in the first 14 minutes of the game, they did exactly that. Newmanistan was flat. It would have been nice to see some of the younger kids try to take advantage of their ice time and make a case that they should be in the every day lineup, but this did not happen. In fairness, the mighty Kelssek defense was a tough assignment for their first interregional game of their careers. After Kelssek jumped out to the 2-0 lead, they focused on defense and completely dominated the Rockets, in every sense of the word. For the game, the Blueleafs outshot Newmanistan 25-15. And that’s just not going to get it done. The game concluded group play, and Newmanistan ends with a mediocre 3-3-2 record, but a mark good enough for second place in the group. Kelssek, went 7-1-0, with that “1" the reason why Newmanistan still has confidence and still believes that they have a chance.

So the Rockets now move on, to the first round of the playoffs where they will meet up with Quakmybush. This team, while we’re still trying to get a hold of their official gameday roster, had a very unique experience in group play, and you can’t say that they weren’t consistent. They played eight games, and seven of them, ended in ties. That’s right, Quakmybush enjoyed a 1-0-7 record within their group. Unfortunately for them, they cannot have their game against Newmanistan end in a tie. It will go to overtime, and there will be a winner. How do you a figure out a team like this? They’re undefeated, yet have only won once. If they had overtime in their games, how many of them would have ended in a win and how many would have ended in a loss? It makes them hard to break down. The safe bet may just be for this game to go to overtime. The normal starting lineup for the Rockets will be utilized for the contest.

OSN Nightly Report
Fenrirs Ready For Playoffs After Rough Few Games
By WILLIAM DRAKE
Sports - Page 2

If anything, the Orion Fenrirs were taught a lesson in humility over the last few games, being shut out twice in a row by perennial all star team Qazox and perennial Orion roadblock Jeruselem. Leading into the games, the Fenrirs were firmly in first, but after two bad losses they limped into the playoffs.

“We got ahead of ourselves,” Assistant Captain Adrian Winters muttered.

“We need to fix it now,” Assistant Captain James Julian added, albeit a bit more forcefully. “This is just pathetic.”

As the team prepares to match up against Kose and the Turkomans, the five goals allowed in two games has called rookie goalie Arkady Nikitin’s ability to perform under pressure into question.

“He’s fine,” Coach Kiril replied, obviously not wanting to discuss such matters with the media.

However, if the Fenrirs lose their first game of the playoffs, making it 3 losses in a row to end the Cup, there will likely be big changes to a roster that just a few matches ago was lauded as one of the best ever. Orion stormed into the second half of the Cup as an immediate success, but as since faltered, turning out a worse second half record then their first half.

1st Round results:
Gwaine 1 - 0 Taeshan
Lovisa 2 - 1 Green Wombat
Kose and the Turkomans 4 - 0 Steel Butterfly
Newmanistan 2 - 0 Quakmybush

QF matchups:
ESF vs. Gwaine
Kelssek vs. Lovisa
Candelaria and Marquez vs. Kose and the Turkomans
Qazox vs. Newmanistan

THE ROCKET REPORT

SANDERS SHOWS WAY TO QUARTERFINALS

Septentrionia- Last evening, Newmanistan skated past Quakmybush by the score of two to nothing, and in the process looked like a dominant team. Maybe, this was because of the “double bye factor” for many of the Rockets key players. By biting the bullet against Kelssek and resting those who have led the way in ice time during the Frozen World Cup, including Craig Sanders between the pipes couple with the fact that Newmanistan had their group stage bye the matchday prior, the Rockets were clearly the fresher team. With the win over one “Q”, the Empire gets set to take another, as they battle Qazox.

The first period began pretty well, with Newmanistan clearly beating their opponents to loose pucks, and at one point won eleven consecutive faceoffs. The top line of Meadows-Marchese-Loiselle had a skip in their step, and while the Rockets never lost their defensive focus, the top scoring line found themselves getting plenty of scoring opportunities. If not for great goalkeeping, and a disallowed goal, Newmanistan could have put this game away in the first ten minutes. As for the disallowed goal, there’s no denying the right call was made. At the 8:13 mark, Francois Loiselle batted down and deflected a Tom Stewart shot into the net, but his stick was ruled to have been over the crossbar and it was waved off. Replays confirmed that the proper call was made the referee, and there was no argument. Eventually though, Newmanistan was able to score one within the rulebook. Jordan Williams stole the puck in the neutral zone due to a bad breakout pass from a Quakmybush defensemen and skated the puck into the zone. He took a shot which was stopped, but an unlikely source was there in front of the net to bang home the rebound. Shawn Evans, known more for being an agitator was on the doorstep and made the most of his chance. Evans, from Williams at 11:52. An ill timed penalty by Larry Davidson opened the door for Quakmybush to get some chances before the period came to a close. After one, Newmanistan held the lead, and a 19-8 shots advantage.

After enjoying such a dominant first period, Newmanistan may have thought things would just easily to them in the second period, and this looked very sloppy. Quakmybush took advantage of this, and was controlling the play. If not for Craig Sanders, things could have become disasterous. But Sanders was fresh, and up to the challenge, turning away all shots, and covering up. After 9 minutes of this, and being outshot 10-0 to open the period, coach Robert Curtis did something you don’t always see. He called his timeout. No saving it for the third period. They needed it now, Curtis sensed. The plan couldn’t have worked any better, and almost immediately you could see the Rockets respond to Curtis’ lecture behind the bench. After a minute or two, Newmanistan was back in control of the game. Quakmybush got a little frustrated and took two penalties by the end of the period. Newmanistan would not score on the chances, but bounced back in the shots on goal department to only be outshot by a 12-8 margin, and after two they had outshot Quakmybush 27-20.

Still, as the third period began there was a sense of fear that Quakmybush could steal this game away. They were known for ties, overall, and only down by one, perhaps it was going according to their plan. Get a tying goal, and send the game into overtime. Quickly though, Newmanistan put those thoughts to bed with Steve Meadows and Alex Marchese working a 2-on-1 to perfection, with ultimately Meadows being the goalscorer, snapping a wrister by the blocker of the goalie, and giving Newmanistan a 2-0 lead. Meadows, from Marchese at 1:03. Now Rockets fans could take a deep breath. Certainly while a two goal lead still isn’t totally safe, it felt a lot better to now have that cushion. And for Quakmybush, it seemed very demoralizing, and they took some time to recover. When they eventually did, they were answered by a tight Newmanistan defense. The Jordan Williams line saw a lot of ice time in this period, and they did a very good job of rarely allowing their opponents to gain the blueline. Late in the game they got frustrated and took a couple careless penalties, in which Newmanistan mainly used to run time off the clock. Eventually, it was over. The Rockets win by the score of 2-0 and can prepare for their next game against Qazox. They outshot their opponents 9-8 in the period, and 36-28 for the game.

Qazox is a formidable team and one with a deep history in the World Cup of Hockey. Nonetheless, it could make for an entertaining matchup as they tend to be an offensively aggressive team that skates well. They could, perhaps, fall right into the clutches of Newmanistan’s trap. Can the powerful defense of Newmanistan contain the Qazox offense? We’ll find out soon enough! Newmanistan is due to beat Qazox in something, after all.

OUR THREE STARS OF THE GAME:
3) Kevin Regan, +2, logged 8 hits and 10 takeaways
2) Steve Meadows, 1G, 7 SOG
1) Craig Sanders, 28 shots, 28 saves

Plutoni national ice hockey blog: WCoH 6, Final Matchday

Last but not...Who are we kidding?

Plutoni finished last in its group, taking only a single point from Pablicosta. The two goals were scored within ten minutes in the second period: Ryan Legue scored off a pass from Ian Munn in the third minute, and Peter Pilcrow converted a Sammy Slash pass in the eleventh. Pablicosta needed a win to have any hope of catching Quakmybush, (who drew with Candelaria And Marquez to make this result moot), so they mounted some attacks later on, but Ulrich Umlaut held out to secure the tie.

Although they lost less than half their games, this is arguably the worst Plutonian side ever, winless and with a worse goal differential than the 1-4-0 team sent the first time out (who did, granted, play fewer matches). But perhaps we should have seen this coming before. Whatever happens, we'll be more tolerant of other people's languages next time out. And they did invite us back if there's another important event in the country.

Who wants to gatecrash the World Cup?

Comments:
1. icebaby: And see what some of you look like in real life? I'll pass.
2. ScoreBot: Ad'ihan and Daehanjeiguk 12, Cafundéu and Septentrionia 7
I try to post scores that will interest people who read this blog. Click here to give me feedback!
3. mrdude: this tem sux can we hav a rel 1 4 7???!! plzzzzzzzzzz1?!
4. icebaby: [3] [1] I get the feeling you're going to be even younger than you make us think. It's impressive, it really is.
5. seb: [3] Hmm, personally I'd like to see a fake team. Couldn't do too much worse.

(Rockets players gather in the hotel meeting room before leaving for their morning skate)

Curtis: Alright boys, it’s game day. Everyone looks good. This isn’t going to be an easy one, but we can do it.

Regan: Damn right we can do it.

Greene: Qazox is the kind of team I’ve been just dying to play in this tournament.

Regan: You got it.

Greene: Nothing sweeter then shutting down a free skating team like this. Craig’s got the book on their shooters, right?

Sanders: I’ve noticed some tendencies of some of their forwards. We gotta score goals, though. They’ve been good in their end, too.

Meadows: Oh, I’m ready.

Curtis: No one expects us to win. Everyone’s got Qazox ticketed for the semifinal, and some even have them in the final already. The stage has been set, now we will crash the party.

Regan: I really think we match up well, coach. We know their good, but we’ve been built to stop this kind of team.

Meadows: Exactly, this is why we’re gonna win this game.

Curtis: One thing that concerns me about them, more then anything else, is that they are a disciplined team. They particularly never take penalties. So, I don’t know if we are really going to be able to goad them into stuff like we usually do. We’re going to have to be smart.

Evans: Disciplined, but they’re also human. They’re not used to killing penalties, because they haven’t had to much. I’ll get them to draw penalties.

(Team laughs)

Meadows: Oh Shawn, if there’s one guy in there that can get a Lady Byng winner to draw five minute major, you’re the one.

Evans: Damn right.

Greene: We’ve really come together as a team, but I do not want this to be our last game. We’re at our best right now. Throwing them off their game can be key.

Curtis: I realize what you guys are saying, but we can’t be taking penalties just because we’re trying to get them to commit them. It’s all about being smart. I really think this game is going to come down to who’s tougher mentally. They’ve been at this stage as a nation, but we’ve been their within the Empire Hockey League.

Sanders: I know I’m ready, it’s time to shock the world.

Regan: Shock the world on three, 1... 2....

Team: SHOCK THE WORLD!!!!


(OOC: Qazox, if you RP our game first, when you write up the box score, please have us record some PIM’s. We aren’t a bunch of saints! A fight would be good too! )

"Up next for the Calcuttas is the surprising team of Gwaine. How do you think they are going to do Findecáno?"

"I don't care, The Orion Star Empire is out! Bwhahahahaha!!!"

Elwë Ciryatan sighed and shook his head. It seemed his commentating partner had picked up a grudge against that team.

"I thought you were past that Findecáno. Do I need to get you back right again?"

"Of course not Elwë, I'm just very pleased that upstarts are out of the competition. Come on, admit it, you're pleased as well. With thier disrespectful attitude to their superiors and all but declaring themselves champions just halfway through the group stage. It was due that they would be felled here in the knockouts, very fitting I think."

"I am above such petty grudges Findecáno. I can enjoy the sport and its' competitors without being irritated by whatever foolish remarks they may or may not make. I thought you were as well, I guess I underestimated you. But let that be, let us focus on the upcoming game."

"If you insist. I think that the Calcuttas do have the edge, as they have been here before. Expierence in key once you enter the knockout stage of sporting competitions, as the nerves of youngsters are never a sure thing. New expierences can shake even the most talented of players to play like deers in headlights."

"I could not agree more. The improved powerplay really completes this squad, and they would be very unfortunate not to go ahead and win the game, and likely the entire tournament. That being said, I do hope that they do not become complacent and take their oppenents for granted. It has been through training and hard work that the elite are made, and it is through that same method that they are perserved. So long as they continue to work hard and not take the oppenents for granted, victory should be theirs."

Quarter-final results:
Gwaine 0 - 2 Elves Security Forces
Lovisa 2 - 3 Kelssek
Kose and the Turkomans 3 - 0 Candelaria and Marquez
Newmanistan 0 - 2 Qazox

Semi-final matchups:
Kelssek - Kose and the Turkomans @ Aréna Municipal, Septentrionalis
Elves Security Forces - Qazox @ Aréna 1093, Ourseville

Joe Baggs WCoH Blog.

YAY I'm finally leaving this country, as the Wombats lost to Lovisa 2-1 and I am outta here.

[OOC: ESF, lol, I love it!]

Oh, I saw that one coming.

Happy with our performance in our first World Cup of Hockey, and I would like to thank Septentrionia for a fantastic job hosting the tournament (though I know your not done yet!) Everything seemed to run very smoothly.

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and joining me tonight is Norris Smythe and Patrick Campbell. Qazox advanced to the semifinals with a hard-hitting, penalty filled 2-0 win over Newmanistan. Norris, what was the key to the game in your eyes?"

Smythe:
"That Qazox found a way to win against the fore-checking of Newmanistan and they killed that almost 8 minute long powerplay early in the 2nd period, which basically took the life out of the Rockets."

Campbell:
"I agree, that Qazox managed to win a game in which they were dominated in all aspects, except the scoreboard, showed me that they can win this Cup."

Wales:
"That win now sets the Pheonix against ESF in the semifinals, a match that some are calling the 'TRUE CUP FINAL', These have been 2 of the best teams in the tourney, so who wins?"

Campbell:
"Qazox does. They've faced tougher group competition and Newmanistan was a much better opponent than Gwaine was, even though the final scores were identical. Qazox 3-2 in overtime."

Smythe:
"Qazox and it will be a hard fought game, just like Newmanistan. 2-1, Pheonix."


Wales:
"Ok. For those of you that either missed the game or tuned in late, here is the scoring summary for the game:"



TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Newmanistan 0 0 0 0
Qazox 0 0 2 2

FIRST PERIOD
Newmanistan- Penalty: Kevin Regan (Roughing 7:11)
Qazox- Penalty: Richard Hansen (Roughing 11:13)
Qazox- Penalty: Kris Saliesta (Cross-Checking, Double Minor 20:00)

SECOND PERIOD
Qazox- Penalty: Mikal Vladi (Roughing 3:47)
Qazox- Penalty: Peter Asikei (Boarding 5:28)
Newmanistan- Penalty: Todd McKinley (Roughing 10:27)
Newmanistan- Penalty: Kevin Regan (Fighting 13:28)
Qazox- Penalty: Kris Saliesta (Fighting 13:28)
Newmanistan- Penalty: Christian Nadeau (Tripping 18:09)

THIRD PERIOD
Qazox- Penalty: Mark Fluey (Spearing, Double Minor 2:22)
Newmanistan- Penalty: Todd McKinley (Roughing 9:50)
Qazox- Goal: (PP) Jim Kirchner (3) Assisted by: Barage (11:27)
Newmanistan- Penalty: Kevin Regan (Roughing 13:28)
Qazox- Goal: (EN) Jim Kirchner (4) Unassisted (19:51)

TOTAL SHOTS
TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Newman 12 7 10 27
Qazox 8 11 12 31

POWERPLAY
Newmanistan- 0/5
Qazox- 1/5

Semi-final results:
Qazox 2 - 0 Elves Security Forces
Kose and the Turkomans 3 - 1 Kelssek

Final:
Qazox - Kose and the Turkomans @ Aréna 1093

3rd place playoff:
Elves Security Forces - Kelssek @ Aréna Municipal

QBC HockeyCentral

Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and joining me tonight is Norris Smythe and Patrick Campbell. Qazox advanced to its second ever WCoH final with a 2-0 win over E.S.F.; Norris, what was the key to the game in your eyes?"

Smythe:
"Qazox came out intense and got two early goals and just controlled the pace of play the rest of the match. The Pheonix just held the puck and passed every oppertunity and forced ESF to try to earn the puck all match."

Campbell:
"ESF looked lost out there tonight. Every chance they had for a breakaway or a 3-2 chance, it was quickly snuffed out. The penalty kill was great once again, killing of a powerplay that lasted the last 4 minutes of the game, and especially during the final 80 seconds when it was a 6-on-4 after Arminas Carnesîr was pulled "

Wales:
"That win now sets the Pheonix against the dark horse Kose and the Turkomans in the final. KT&T knocked off Kelssek 3-1 and they have looked very good during this run to the final. So do the Pheonix win a 2nd title in 3 tries or does KT&T win its first?"

Campbell:
"Qazox claims its second title. While it has been a great run for the Turks, Midnight will strike for this Cinderella. Qazox 5-1."

Smythe:
"Qazox will win, but it will go to Overtime, 2-1 Pheonix become 2-time champs."


Wales:
"Ok. For those of you that either missed the game or tuned in late, here is the scoring summary for the game:"



TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 2 0 0 2
E.S.F. 0 0 0 0


FIRST PERIOD
Qazox- Goal: Brian Caulder (4) (5:19) assisted by: Michael Zabov
ESF- Penalty: Firod Súinwë (Hooking 6:45)
Qazox- Goal: (PP) Michael Zabov (2) (7:52) assisted by: James Huett and Leon Guercio
Qazox- Penalty: Richard Hansen (Boarding 15:10)

SECOND PERIOD
Qazox- Penalty: Alvin Gutshall (Interference 8:18)
ESF- Penalty: Amras Tasartir (Slashing 12:08)

THIRD PERIOD
Qazox- Penalty: James Huett, Served by Derek Caperton (Slashing 5:51)
ESF- Penalty: Erestor Narmolanya (Tripping) 7:45)
Qazox- Penalty: Mikal Vladi (Spearing, Double minor 16:11)

TOTAL SHOTS
TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
Qazox 12 9 5 26
E.S.F. 9 6 15 30

POWERPLAY
Qazox- 1/3
E.S.F.- 0/4

Third Place Playoff:
Elves Security Forces 3 - 0 Kelssek

Final:
Qazox 2 - 0 Kose and the Turkomans

Congratulations to Qazox who won the Sixth World cup of hockey!

QBC HockeyCentral

<QBC Broadcast: There's 20 seconds left, Kose has the goalie pulled and its still 2-0 Qazox. Leon Guercio has the puck just behind the net, 10 seconds left and the crowd here at Aréna 1093 is going wild, 5...4...3...2...1...IT'S OVER! IT'S OVER!!! Qazox has taken home its second World Cup of hockey and the players are streaming onto the ice!!!>


Wales:
"I'm Adam Wales, and as you just heard from Nathan Vassel, Qazox has won its second title in 6 years (ooc: going every 2 years) and as established themselves as one of the best Hockey teams in the world. Most amazingly, they did not allow a single goal during the last 6 games, the the team, expected to be the best offensively, instead became the best defensively. Qazox in fact did not allow a goal over the last 409:42 they played. That's not a misprint, over 400 consecutive minutes played without allowing a goal.

With the recent success of the team and the most recent bid, Qazox is definitely the prohibative favorite not only to host the next edition of the WCoH, but to win it as well."

The MVP of the tourney has been announced and it is Jaques Maaten who went 5-1-1 in the prelims, the only loss being the 1-0 loss to the Orion Star Empire and 2-0 with 2 shutouts here in the knockouts. Overall this tourney Maaten allowed only 5 goals, all of those in the first 5 games and had 5 total shutouts and a G.A.A of 0.56. Maaten finished with a shutout streak of 289:42, setting a new WCoH record in the process.

For those of you that either missed the game or tuned in late, here is the scoring summary for the game:"



TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
K. & T. T. 0 0 0 0
Qazox 2 0 0 2


FIRST PERIOD
K. & T. T.- Penalty (5:53, Boarding)
Qazox- Goal: (PP) Jim Kirchner (5) (7:42) Unassisted
K. & T. T.- Penalty (16:11, Too many men on ice)
Qazox- Goal: (PP) Leon Guercio(2) (17:20) assisted by: John Hardin and Michael Zabov
Qazox- Penalty: Kris Saliesta (Cross-Checking 18:51)

SECOND PERIOD
Qazox- Penalty: Darrell Blizzard (Interference 10:28)
K. & T. T.- Penalty (15:09, Boarding)

THIRD PERIOD
Qazox- Penalty: Derek Caperton (Slashing 15:07)


TOTAL SHOTS
TEAMS 1 2 3 FIN
K. & T. T. 5 2 4 11
Qazox 14 13 9 36

POWERPLAY
K. & T. T. 0/3
Qazox 2/3