NationStates Jolt Archive

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/kelchek/rwc11logo.png

Welcome to Septentrionia for the Rugby World Cup! Basically, this is the thread where everything will happen, considering having only 16 participating nations isn't really enough to have two or three threads.

Group Draw:

Group A
Septentrionia
Kelssek (4) (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14288320&postcount=5)
Liventia (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14297757&postcount=14)
An Blascaod Mór

Group B
Taeshan (3) (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14295745&postcount=8)
Solenial (5)
Alversia (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14288149&postcount=3)
West Zirconia (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14291892&postcount=6)

Group C
Sorthern Northland (2) (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14297978&postcount=15)
Miroxia
Quintessence of Dust (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14288133&postcount=2)
Idanno (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14297604&postcount=12)

Group D
Candelaria And Marquez (1) (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14295344&postcount=7)
Lovisa (6)
Myedvedeya
Peisandros


The other nations aren't ranked. Every team will be given an equivalent ranking in points so that I can apply RP Bonus properly.

I have a schedule for the RWC and it will end right before Christmas. Here it is:

December 11th: Group Draw
December 13th to 15th: First Round of games - Group Phase
December 16th to 18th: Second Round of games - Group Phase
December 20th to 22nd: Knockout Phase

Note that links to the squads will be added as soon as someone posts a squad and I notice it. The squad list will also be rearranged when the draw is done and I will add the schedule with the stadia with it.

Good luck to everybody

Coach Edward 'Big Ted' Large is fielding a 23-man squad for the All Greys' first venture into international rugby after the disappointment of Rugby World Cup VIII's cancellation.

Squad

1. James Wilmot
2. Spartacus Cooper
3. Barry Pullman (c)
4. Danny Mensen (vc)
5. Benjamin Brooks
6. Wolfgang Andrews
7. Rene Friedman
8. Dean Olafson

9. Tommy Donegan
10. Jack Peters
11. Sean Reilly
12. Chip McDiarmund
13. Bernard Franks
14. Ron Diller
15. Bill Gerhard (penalties and conversions)

Replacement forwards
16 - (front row) - Bartholomew Barber
17 - (back row) - Kent Willow
18 - (front row) - Humphrey Nibbles
19 - (back row) - Dick Quentin

Replacement backs
20 - (centre) - Ralph Connor
21 - (wing/fullback) - Willy Zimmerman
22 - (wing/centre) - Bobby Zimmerman
23 - (halfback) - Nick Klaus


Wilmot Cooper Pullman
Mensen Brooks
Andrews Olafson Friedman

Donegan
Peters
Franks
McDiarmund
Reilly Diller
Gerhard

Kit (http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/5478/85602155vt6.jpg)

If my opponent RPs first, they can:
choose my score breakdown - Y
choose my scorers - Y (but please use Bill Gerhard for kicking)
give my players sin-bins and red cards - Y (within reason)
give my players - Y (within reason)
make up other stuff - Y (within reason)

The Alversian Republic shall enter a 23 man squad into their first ever Rugby World Cup.

1. Michael Barnes
2. Robert McShane
3. Thomas Mannings
4. John Reid (C)
5. Cormac McNamee (VC)
6. Connor Creaney
7. Sean Williams
8. Dennis Mackle

9. Larry Carpenter
10. Eoghan Murty
11. Ethan Quinn
12. Peter O'Doherty
13. Frankie Jones
14. Barry Miller
15. Garry Martins (penalties and conversions)

Replacement forwards
16 - (front row) - Aiden Dean
17 - (back row) - John Hamill
18 - (front row) - Philllip Kelly
19 - (back row) - Connor Burns

Replacement backs
20 - (centre) - Joey Abrahams
21 - (wing/fullback) - Michael Bannon
22 - (wing/centre) - Scott Harrison
23 - (halfback) - Terrance Rhees

"Hi everyone, thanks for coming. We're going to send a squad of 30 to the Rugby World Cup 11. There are a few injury concerns and guys really pushing hard for inclusion in that 22 which will play the first game. But if things don't work, I'll be making changes. Anyway, I'll be making the final squad announcement tomorrow. No questions tonight, I'll see you tomorrow."

-- Coach John Theokarras

(OOC: I don't get these 23 man squads. Rugby is played with 22, so you're only taking one non-playing reserve to a RWC?)

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/kelchek/kelssekrugbyfederation.gif
Kelssek Rugby Federation | Fédération kelssekien de rugby

First-choice lineup
1 Evan Benacki (Clayquot Reds)
2 Pierre-Marc Lafleur (Burnaby Lions)
3 Kenneth LeGrady (Neorvins Battery)
4 Ross McLachlan (Redswyth Rebels)
5 Josh Lachlan (Latrobe AFC)
6 Stephane Fournier (Kirkenes Crusaders)
7 Julian Smythe (Hamilton Tiger-Cats)
8 Terrance Bay (Burnaby Lions)

9 Michael Wainwright (Neorvins Argos)
10 Joel Danforth (Latrobe AFC)
11 Richard Duclos (Mazinaw Stallions)
12 Hugh Kitchener (Vickery)
13 Matthieu Duclos (Outineau Nordiques)
14 Thomas Pyatt (Neorvins Argos)
15 Rendel Clark (Wentonweakes RFC)

Other squad members

Forwards:
Owen Vanderbiss (Neorvins Argos)
Lyle Andrew (Rotor Novanaya)
Bryan Cantoney (Breton RFC)
Alexandre Ducque (Kirkenes Crusaders)
Lionel Beauvais (Outineau Nordiques)
Mark Kennedy (Redswyth Rebels)
Olivier Pardeau (Mazinaw Stallions)

Backs:
Alain Lafleur (Redswyth Rebels)
Douglas Weiss (Clayquot Reds)
Daniel Worsley (Breton RFC)
Sean O'Bryden (Neorvins Argos)
William Deekes (Kirkenes Crusaders)
Ryan Neville (Outineau Nordiques)
Patrick Cantwell (Mazinaw Stallions)
Lee Navanich (Outineau Nordiques)

[OOC: My knowledge of rugby - either union or league - is sketchy to say the least, but I'll try (pardon the pun) to RP as best as I can]

For West Zirconia to field a team in the World Cup is something of a miracle, given the state of rugby union in the country. The game is currently without a national league, with sundry regional competitions and cups giving the clubs something at which to aim every season.

Ten of the stronger clubs have been selected to provide players for the inaugural national team, fuelling speculation that they will be invited to form a national league in the near future.

Rugby union is still an amateur sport, so don't expect too much from this fledgling side.

The first XV for the World Cup will be as follows:

Forwards:
1 Simon Henry (Redwood)
2 Lawrence Johnston (St. Martin Bees)
3 Ged Underwood (Oakley)
4 Bobby Berry (Moorcroft)
5 Andy Gibson (Bradley and Elwell)
6 David Hall (Snaith Marlins)
7 Matthew Jones (Clwb Rygbi Caernewydd)
8 Alan Forrester (Flockton Flavell)

Backs:
9 Ian Monaghan (Currie Celtic)
10 Geoff Rodgers (Snaith Marlins)
11 Gavin Duffy (Mort Park)
12 Rory Spencer (St. Martin Bees)
13 Alex Morris (Flockton Flavell)
14 Jamie Parker (Bradley and Elwell)
15 Stephen Jones (Redwood)

The rest of the squad are:

Forwards:
16 Jon Wallace (Mort Park)
17 Craig Whittaker (Moorcroft)
18 Steve Thorne (Oakley)
19 Paul Wilson (Moorcroft)
20 Michael Hill (Clwb Rygbi Caernewydd)
21 Stephen Foster (Oakley)
22 Michael King (Snaith Marlins)

Backs:
23 Gordon Taylor (Flockton Flavell)
24 Eugene Farley (St. Martin Bees)
25 Phil Nurse (Redwood)
26 Gordon Paterson (Currie Celtic)
27 Phil Radcliffe (Bradley and Elwell)
28 Chris Stead (Mort Park)
29 Danny Tomkins (Clwb Rygbi Caernewydd)

The Albrecht Herald Online>Sport>RWC11>Latest News

Kinsella names champions’ squad, by Nic Scotland in Albrecht Adi Kinsella, the head coach of the Huge Blues, and Candelarias Rugby Union Union chairman Mitchell Russell have confirmed the thirty-man C&M squad for Septentrionia, as the Candelariasians bid to retain their title.

Fourish years ago, Kinsella’s unfancied team predominately comprising of Sorthern-born Candelariasians and Candelarias-born Northlanders upset the favourites from Sorthern Northland, a team predominately comprising of Candelarias-born Sortherners and Sorthern-Candelariasian Sortherners, in the Neorvins to lift their first international rugby title. Candelariasian supporters will be mindful that none of the previous RWC champions – Cockbill Street, East Lithuania, Aust, Haraki, Rorysville, Snake Eaters and Solenial – were able to win the tournament for a second time, never mind retain the cup at the first time of asking, and the competition is expected to be particularly fierce this time around, with a host of new participants expected to put up a significant fight. With the nation’s attentions once again focussed on the round ball, and preparations for the World Cup of Footer, Kinsella’s men may face less pressure to retain their title than might be expected – but the hype machine will no doubt role into town should the Candelariasians ease through their first few matches.

Asides from the four players who inexplicably upped sticks to Kjomasasopia following the disenfranchisement of the Onwere Glory Pheasants from the CRUC; the squad is entirely home-based. Eleven of the twelve CRUC teams are represented, with only the Zapata Turtles failing to get a nod in the thirty. Only seven players are drawn from the Arrigo Eagles, off the back of their fifth Play-Off Shield title in eight seasons, including the youngest player on the squad – eighteen year-old Jacob Thompson, the lightning fast centre who is arguably the best young talent in the Candelariasian game for many a year.

Probable Starters

1. Oberon Elliot (Loosehead Prop), 26, Clotaire Stags
2. Albie Gajarsky (Hooker), 23, Kili Kili Eagles [Kjomasasopia]
3. Thomas Patterson (Tighthead Prop), 27, Zacic Pride [Kjomasasopia]
4. Víctor Campodrosso (Lock), 34, Arrigo Eagles
5. Ed Usta (Lock), 24, Capital City Panthers
6. Darian O’Reilly (Blindside Flanker), 31, Warne Hogs
7. Alex Baron (Openside Flanker), 31, Albrecht Zpinh
8. Dan Swan (Number 8), 23, Clotaire Stags

9. Miho Tipton (Scrum Half), 33, Warne Hogs
10. James Torrens (Fly Half), 26, Kili Kili Eagles [Kjomasasopia]
11. Mark Webb (Left Wing + Penalty/Conversion Kicker), 30, Arrigo Eagles
12. Yehudi Bailey (Inside Centre), 33, Bove Bats
13. Jacob Thompson (Outside Centre), 18, Arrigo Eagles
14. Juan Pablo O’Donovan (Right Wing), 24, Arrigo Eagles
15. Douglas Lassissi (Fullback), 30, El din Bulls

Other Squad Members

16. Gangly Colachal (Hooker), 30, Allemali Black Rats
17. Aaron Quigg (Prop), 19, Capital City Panthers
18. Ríoghbhardán Muintirlideadha (Number 8), 25, Capital City Panthers
19. Jason Andrews (Lock), 29, Arrigo Eagles
20. Carlos Constantino (Flanker), 29, Nikpojemma Power [Kjomasasopia]
21. Florian Zurbrugg (Scrum-Half), 25, Caires Hedgehogs
22. Marcus Antonini (Fly Half/Centre), 30, Clotaire Stags
23. Matthew Whitehead (Centre/Wing), 23, Vo Rugby Club
24. Marc Any (Centre) 31, El din Bulls
25. Fallon Wilkinson (Right Wing), 29, Bass King Sharks
26. Stuart Ryder (Hooker), 21, Allemali Black Rats
27. Ian Fonseca (Prop), 32, Arrigo Eagles
28. Matthew Masters (Openside Flanker), 23, El din Bulls
29. Ferdinand Bennett (Scrum-Half), 26, Arrigo Eagles
30. Zambrana Andries (Fly-Half), 22, Bove Bats

And this be our team i believe...
Erlin Spector 3 24
Asia Perkins 4 23
Zack Fricnek 2 22
Theo Grady 7 27
Sulivan Myers 10 26
Slyvester Stalane 12 28
Ryan Batchfelder 13 27
Perry Oslav 25 30
Steven Arrington 16 28
Deven Baker 11 26
Xavier Mercury 19 21
Freedie Ashington 44 22
Seth Mellinger 50 22
Cedric Eves 49 23
Ari Devlonagaas 60 24
Subs
Gerry Hinerkentingull 33 25
Jeff Sledginbenginger 57 26
Ricky Gerard 14 29
Qraig Fisher 90 24

Yeah lets go with that

Ladies and Gentlemen, the group draw has been achieved. Look at the first post in this thread to see in what group you have been drawn. Good luck to everybody

Alversia Faces Tough Group!
Alversia drawn with two top seeds in first group draw.

Though the Alversian Rugby team knew that no group was going to be an easy passage into the next round, they would have preferred to be have been assigned something a little easier. The draw for the groups, made in the capital of host nation, Septentrionia, pitted Alversia in Group B along with Taeshan and Solenial, who are seeded third and fifth for the tournament respectively. The Alversians have also been drawn with West Zirconia who, though they are not seeded, will provide a difficult campaign for the Alversian Republican Team.

The draw is not what many Alversian fans, who are flocking to Septentrionia in anticipation of some world class action from many of the world's top players. Some Alversians have arrived early in order to familiarise themselves with the area before the matches start and it gets's rather crowded,
"Yeah, we felt it would be better to come a week early to get our bearings. That way, when the rest of the fans arrive, we're free to soak up the atmosphere without fears of getting lost." Said one couple who were staying in one of the many hotels available within Septentrionia's capital city. When asked about the draw, they had this to say,
"Obviously, it's not what we were hoping for, but we have faith in the quality and depth of our team to come through it. Players like John Reid and Pete O'Doherty will see us through it. We're confident of qualifying."

The atmosphere has already been building in anticipation of the start of the tournament, the first Rugby Union World Cup that Alversia has attended in her long history. There are those in the ARA who are hoping that Alversia's appearance will help inspire younger people to get involved in the sport,
"It's a huge event for the Alversian team and for the Alversian People," said Michael Hilton, Chairman of the Alversian Rubgy Association, "Rugby union has always been big in Alversia as a spectator sport and maybe the appearance of so many of their heroes on the big screen will pursuade younger fans to take the sport up for themselves."

In a press conference, first team coach Bill McDuff, was confident with the draw and was looking forward to the challenges of the World Cup and Alversia's group,
"We have a relatively untried International team with us at this World Cup," he explained to assembled Journalists in the Alversian team's Hotel within Septentrionia, where the team is currently undergoing last minute training in prepation for the first fixture,
"However, I know that the Players are hungry for success and this stage, the highest of a player's career, will only inspire them even more to succeed. Yes, we have two Seeds in our group, but even if we cannot beat them, then we shall make them work hard for a victory".

His Optimism is being stared throughout the country, as fans begin to pack up and leave, some paying thousands for tickets, or simply preparing for the vast arsenal of news, television, internet and radio coverage that has been prepared for the World Cup, many are speaking about the Group and Alversia's chances,
"We'll not go through," said one Fan in Illesia City upon hearing the draw, "We'll give it a shot but we don't have the experience at this level and I think we'll struggle to beat the two seeds."
However, other fan's disagree,
"The Alversian Superleague this year was the best for a decade at least," insists one older Fan, "Our players may not have experience on their side, but they sure have the passion and the quality to go on and win this for the country and for themselves."

Even if Alversia does crash out in the first round of the World Cup, then there is certainly no lack of excitement in the other groups to keep any bystander interested. Group A includes the Hosts Septentrionia as well as Fourth Seeds Kelssek, a match that will surely draw in vast crowds of Local Support. Group C includes Second Seeds for the tournament Sorthern Northland, as well as Miroxia. The group that will attract the most attention though, will be Group D, which includes tournament favourites Candelaria And Marquez and Lovisa, seeded 6th for the tournament. The tournament looks set to be a non-stop rollercoaster of excitement, will brilliant fixtures across all four groups, this can only be a brilliant event.

Written by Mark Warren

massive edit!


IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO ALL RUGBY PLAYING NATIONS:
I am THINKING OF setting up an International Domestic Rugby Newswire for both Union and League. if you are interested, send me, Kjomasasopia, a telegram with your national comp, what code it is and i'll WRITE IT DOWN AS A PRE-EXISTING LEAGUE THAT THE NEWSWIRE RECOGNISES. I could also organise a UEFA Champions League type tournament if all goes well with numbers. Cheers!

ALSO, IF YOU KNOW OF A PRE-EXISTING NEWSWIRE, PLEASE INFORM ME SOONER RATHER THAN LATER, BECAUSE THERE IS NOTHING WORSE THAN SETTING UP A THREAD THAT NO ONE NEEDS BECUASE THERE IS ANOTHER THREAD IDENTICAL TO IT SOMEWHERE ELSE.

apologies for the capslock.

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v232/174/108/719411980/t719411980_781038_8096.jpgIDANNO STALLIONShttp://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v232/174/108/719411980/t719411980_781038_8096.jpg
30 MAN SQUAD FOR RWC11:
STARTING XV:
#. Name, Age, Zone/Club

Taonga Kwadwo,35, Southern
Bongani Rudo, 21, Eastern
Mattieu Balthasar, 30, Eastern
Sean Goro-Goro, 23, Northern
Mikaere Anan (c), 45, Central
Tinashe Emem, 28, Northern
Neo Kibwe, 24, Central
Kwaku Faraji, 22, Northern
Byron Alexander (vc, K2), 40, Kili Kili Eagles (KJO Club)
Kwesi Zuberi (K1), 32, Central
Kwabena Mwenye, 18, Northern
Desta Tane, 20, Southern
Tamati Timoti, 24, Southern
Connor Tendaji, 20, Currently Off Contract
Neoke'e Vinivatu, 19, Kili Kili Eagles (KJO Club)
SUBSTITUTES:
Jelani Itumeleng, 40, Western
Tane Piripi,31, Western
Imamu Sipho,21, Eastern
Anaru Faraji, 18, Far North
Amir Mamadou, 36, Western
Refilwe Wiremu*,30, Eastern
Mudiwa Masozi, 23, Northern
*: Refilwe Wiremu is a Kjomasasopian born player who qualifies for Idanno by rule of Residency. he has lived in Idanno for 28 years (since age of 2)
RESERVE PLAYERS
Rutendo Dumisani, 25, Lrinlrac Priests (KJO Club)
Gwandoya Jengo, 29, Western
Neo Isingoma, 26, Central
Thulani Jelani, 31, Southern
Tau Sipho,38, Central
Kwesi Nsia, 26, Western
Thabo Kefilwe, 23, Eastern
Mosi Kobina, 22, Northern

STAFF:
HEAD COACH: Johnson Johnson, 48, Former Test Fly-Half, Former Northern Fly-Half
FORWARDS COACH:Devin Emmerson,30, Former Test and Southern Tighthead
BACKS COACH: Vance Brighton, 34, Former Eastern Fly-Half
MANAGER:Luke Dashiell, 45, Manager for Northern
STRAPPERS: Zach Douglas, Melvin Warwick, Both 37, Strappers for Central and Western respectively
DOCTOR: Dr. Jaymes Kasey, 56, Former Test Winger, Now fulltime team doctor

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
on another note, id like to take up kjo's offer of a newswire. i think it will improve the status of rugby here on NS to much like IRL, where it is the second most played sport on earth.

The Albrecht Herald Online>Sport>RWC11>Latest News

Probable Starters

2. Albie Gajarsky (Hooker), 23, Kili Kili Eagles [Kjomasasopia]
3. Thomas Patterson (Tighthead Prop), 27, Zacic Pride [Kjomasasopia]


be careful with that... Kili Kilians and Zacicians are like Bloods and Crips...have been for over 250 years...how you will get those two to work together is beyond me...sorry man, i should've told you before...

and make sure Patterson has a few buddies to back him, just in case...

OOC: This is the official RP thread for RWC11. Please keep all that stuff you can use telegrams for out of here, especially if you're not in the tournament! It's very annoying to have to read through all of this from someone not even in the tournament. It's not even IC.

IC:

Liventian rugby union national squad for RWC11

A number of the players who have been selected for the squad were previously playing amateur rugby union, before being selected to the Liverpool England squad for the inaugural Gridiron World Championships, in which they made the quarterfinals. They have returned to playing rugby, and have now progressed to the national team.

Team manager: Patrick McDonald
Head coach: Aaron Young

Starting XV:
1. Adam Wood
2. Justin Coon
3. Ryan Turner
4. Kenneth Hu
5. Josh Brown
6. Anthony Hall
7. Andy Carter
8. Devon Stewart
9. Ben Thomson
10. Aaron Owen
11. Thomas White
12. Adrian Evans
13. Trevor King
14. Charles Hughes
15. Luke Marshall

Reserves:
Sean Murphy
Owen Lewis
Sebastian Allen
Nathan Powell
Adrian Gibson
Aaron Clark
Cameron Mills
Andrew Thomas
Jason Thomas
Jacob Bailey
Trevor Webb
Thomas Johnson

Sorthern Northland Rugby World Cup 11 Squad

Probable Starting XV

1.Igor Borelli, (Prop), 27, Vespucci RUFC
2.Ryan Hughes, (Hooker), 23, Oldinghamensians
3.Christian Trout, (Prop), 25, Little Albrecht RUFC
4.William Ledanov, (Lock), 27, Metalksy RUFC
5.Archie Ervin, (Lock), 28, Invernaery RUFC
6.Alejandro Wright, (Flanker), 29, Beningrad RUFC
7.Paul Jungo, (Flanker), 24, Beningrad RUFC
8.Rashid Meghen, (Number 8), 23, Rhuritania Locos

9.Robert Parker, (Scrum Half), 23, Corcaigh
10.Noel Neyson, (Fly Half/Kick taker), 25, Oldinghamensians
11.Seidu Obiefule, (Left Wing), 23, Bay RUFC
12.Hayden Wilson, (Inside Centre), 27, Heathfield Abbey
13.Trevor Wilson, (Outside Centre), 27, Heathfield Abbey
14.Craig Wilson, (Right Wing), 27, Heathfeild Abbey
15.Wong Man-Sing, (Full Back), 20 Shingon RUFC

Reserves

16.Harold Gregor, (Hooker), 21, Helroyd RUFC
17.Jimmy Gomes, (Prop), 20, Fairgate RUFC
18.Karl Hopkins, (Prop), 22, Maes-y-ogof RUFC
19.Harry Hospel, (Lock), 21, Unattached
20.James Bayroan, (Lock), 24, Leeford RUFC
21.Freddie Ygortez, (Flanker), 23, Leeford RUFC
22.Gethin Hughes, (Flanker), 22, Cardiff Scottish RUFC
23.Matty Young, (Number 8), 29, Beningead RUFC
24.Daryl Dwinford, (Scrum Half), 23, Oldinghamensians
25. Yaser Neisi, (Left Wing), 18, Al-Jerel RUFC
26.Brian Ngoli (Inside Centre), 19, Candelariasians of Beningrad RUFC
27.Andrew Zikolic, (Outside Centre), 17, Swanington RUFC
28.Nicky Brema, (Right Wing), 23, Swanington RUFC
29.Gerry Jenkins, (Fly Half), 21, Ballynafen RUFC
30.Cameron Jensen, (Full Back), 17, Hillaton RUFC

Kits

First/Change

http://img157.imageshack.us/img157/1457/snrugbyhomeyo5.png (http://imageshack.us)http://img157.imageshack.us/img157/9179/snrugbyawayvy6.png (http://imageshack.us)

If My Opponent RP's First they may:

Choose My Point Scorers: Y
Godmod Events: N
Injure My Players: Y
Put my players in Sinbin: Y

OOC: This is the official RP thread for RWC11. Please keep all that stuff you can use telegrams for out of here, especially if you're not in the tournament! It's very annoying to have to read through all of this from someone not even in the tournament. It's not even IC.



ooc:oi just lay off him, alright? kjo's just tryin to help C&M, he probably couldve done so via tg, but who really cares? its ONE post that goes for three lines! its not like he wrote a 10000 word essay about the social relevance of party pies or anything like that! settle down.plus, kjo was originally
bidding for hosting rights, and if he wasnt sent off on stress leave, he wouldve stayed in the tournament. so i think he has a right to post.
STALLLIONS STILL RULE!

Sorry for the unexpected delay guys. Anyway, time for the...
Matchday 1 scores:

Group A:
Septentrionia 18 - 17 An Blascaod Mór
Kelssek 27 - 21 Liventia


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Kelssek 1 0 0 0 27 21 6 4
2. Septentrionia 1 0 0 0 18 17 1 4
3. An Blascaod Mór 0 0 1 1 17 18 -1 1
4. Liventia 0 0 1 1 21 27 -6 1


Group B:
Taeshan 21 - 7 West Zirconia
Solenial 40 - 24 Alversia


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Solenial 1 0 0 0 40 24 16 4
2. Taeshan 1 0 0 0 21 7 14 4
3. West Zirconia 0 0 1 0 7 21 -14 0
4. Alversia 0 0 1 0 24 40 -16 0


Group C:
Sorthern Northland 33 - 28 Idanno
Miroxia 32 - 20 Quintessence of Dust


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Miroxia 1 0 0 0 32 20 12 4
2. Sorthern Northland 1 0 0 0 33 28 5 4
3. Idanno 0 0 1 1 28 33 -5 1
4. Quintessence of Dust 0 0 1 0 20 32 -12 0


Group D:
Candelaria and Marquez 3 - 19 Peisandros
Lovisa 35 - 3 Myedvedeya


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Lovisa 1 0 0 0 35 3 32 4
2. Peisandros 1 0 0 0 19 3 16 4
3. Candelaria and Marquez 0 0 1 0 3 19 -16 0
4. Myedvedeya 0 0 1 0 3 35 -32 0

West Zirconia's début on the international rugby stage ended in an expected defeat against Taeshan, with the 21-7 scoreline flattering the newcomers.

Taeshan were simply too strong for their opponents, with their first try coming after just seven minutes. Theo Grady simply pushed through the West Zirconian defence for his try, which was converted with ease by Deven Baker. Just ten minutes later, Taeshan had the opportunity to double their lead when Grady scored his second try. However, Baker's attempted conversion hit the post, and the score remained 12-0.

In an attempt to get back into the game, West Zirconia let their discipline go towards the end of the game, and penalties in the 58th, 65th and 70th minutes, all successfully converted by Baker, took the world's number three side to 21-0.

However, there was some cheer for West Zirconia, as Jamie Parker scored their first ever international points. The Bradley and Elwell winger pulled off a remarkable sprint past the Taeshan defence to score a try. It was left to Snaith Marlins' Geoff Rodgers to convert the try, which he duly did.

Hopefully West Zirconia will learn some lessons from this defeat, but there are some rays of hope despite the nature of the defeat.


Taeshan 21-7 West Zirconia

Scores:
5-0 Grady try (5)
7-0 Baker conversion (5)
12-0 Grady try (15)
15-0 Baker penalty (58)
18-0 Baker penalty (65)
21-0 Baker penalty (70)
21-5 Parker try (78)
21-7 Rodgers conversion (78)

The New Cleethorpes Enquirer
An Alright Start

Quintessence of Dust's first rugby international ended in a 12-point defeat at the hands of fellow RWC debutantes last night in Septentrionia. But despite the scoreline, coach Edward 'Big Ted' Large insisted the team had made 'Ágætis byrjun' - an alright start.

The game remained tight until the 78th minute, when the weary All Greys, bruised and battered after a hard-fought, tackle-heavy contest, finally began to miss their tackles, allowing through a Miroxian try to take the margin past a single score.

Despite the physical nature of the match, the team survived well, and the full XV is expected to be fit to start their next encounter, pending the outcome of an X-ray on second row Benjamin Brooks's knee. Chip McDiarmund, part of the team's new midfield, was blood-binned after copping a flailing arm to the nose, but returned to continue throwing tackles with his customary ferocity.

The Miroxians, a Pacific state chiefly famous for holding the first NS Survivor, never achieved total dominance, but likewise never looked seriously under threat. From the starting whistle they had the better share of possession, and were only really challenged at the lineout, where Brooks and star player Danny Mensen succeeded in disrupting their catches on several occasions. An early penalty from fullback Bill Gerhard for hands on the floor gave the All Greys an early lead, which they never regained after the Miroxians fought back in an exciting ten minutes of end-to-end rugby.

Nine points down on the cusp of the half-time whistle, stand off Jack Peters skimmed a sharp drop goal just inside the left post to keep the deficit within a single score. The youngster from the Highmark Drones belied his critics with a confident game, finding his touches regularly and tackling with panache, and showing bursts of real pace on his occasional inventive runs. But one costly error was his undoing on the restart, snapping up a loose ball in midfield after lazy kicking from the Miroxians only to spill it in the tackle, setting up an easy breakaway try.

The Miroxian pack kept their game tight at the breakdown, and it was Quintessence of Dust who ended up giving away needless penalties, which did not go unpunished. Then, after 52 minutes, with Willy Zimmerman warming up to replace him, Bernard Franks landed his side's maiden try in international rugby, atoning for a game in which his handling was otherwise poor with a remarkable show of individual strength and skill, throwing a dummy pop to Gerhard and looping round to catch it himself, then charging through two tackles and shoving off a third at the line to wipeout the corner flag and bring to their feet the devoted fans whose decision to make the trek to Septentrionia was beginning to look misplaced. Gerhard, whose kicking from hand was also on song all night, held his nerve to splice the posts with a tricky conversion in blustery conditions.

The All Greys resumed in attacking style, working their way upfield through a set of big carries from forwards James Wilmot and Rene Friedman, who was outstanding throughout, before Tommy Donegan unleashed Ron Diller for a storming run that brought them within the Miroxian five metre line. Donegan then unfolded a beautiful training ground move, first darting for the line himself to take in two defenders and set up a three man overlap, recycling the quick ball for Friedman, and then returning to whip a box kick across the Miroxian lines to Mensen, waiting on the far left byline like a hyena, who had only to collect the simple catch one handed and step over the line to complete the score. Though he left Gerhard with another horrendous conversion, this time from the left, the All Grey kicker again nailed it.

But the game had taken a heavy toll, and tiredness began to show in legs and arms, culminating in a disappointing final quarter of an hour in which the Miroxians took the game away to leave the scoreline at 32-20. Speaking with the Enquirer after the game, the notoriously reticent Large spoke only two words, but captain Barry Pullman was more effusive.

"We were gutted to lose, just gutted, but I don't think it was a full reflection of how well everyone played. This side hasn't had many games together and I thought we showed a good fighting spirit." Mensen was philosophical in defeat: "The individual has always had to struggle to keep from being overwhelmed by the tribe. If you try it, you will be lonely often, and sometimes frightened. But no price is too high to pay for the privilege of owning yourself."

Group favourites and RWC10 runners-up Sorthern Northland had to battle for their victory over Idanno, while in Group D defending champions Candelaria & Marquez went down to a surprise defeat to Peisandros. The other seeded teams all won, while hosts Septentrionia squeaked a 1-point victory over An Blascaod Mór in Group A.
______

Quintessence of Dust: Gerhard; Diller, McDiarmund, Franks, Reilly; Peters, Donegan; Wilmot, Cooper, Pullman (c), Mensen, Brooks, Andrews, Friedman, Olafson.
Replacements: Barber, Nibbles, Quentin, W. Zimmerman.
Tries: Franks, Mensen
Conversions: Gerhard (2)
Penalties: Gerhard
Drop goals: Peters

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

RUGBY WORLD CUP 11
Kelssek slow out of the gate, but grab win

Kelssek surely was hoping for better from the opening game of the Rugby World Cup in Septentrionia as they faced a largely amateur Liventia side, many of who were recently playing an entirely different code of football, but a six-point win is still a win, nevertheless, and in that sense at least, fans can't complain too badly about the result.

It was a middling and pedestrian performance at best and gut-wrenchingly careless at its worst; with the defence sloppy in conceding three tries and no doubt feeling fortunate that Liventia didn't have better kicking on the night.

Indeed, sloppy is in many ways the only way to describe the comedy of errors as two tacklers missed bringing down Charles Hughes as Liventia struck on a lightning counter-attack. Hughes evaded Thomas Pyatt's tackle by passing it off to Trevor King, who was left with no opposition for the remaining ten metres to the try line. A simple conversion later Kelssek were 7-0 down and shell-shocked.

Matthieu Duclos's skillful boot was to thank as Liventia conceded what would eventually be difference-making penalties in the first half. Accuracy from long range would win the game as he put two in from 44 and 47 metres to make the score 7-6 by the 20th minute, with good pressure at the breakdown to thank as Liventia were caught not releasing the ball on both instances.

Liventia weren't done yet, though, as a solid pick-and-go off a five-metre lineout saw the ball carried over the line by Kenneth Hu. Shock turned to horror as another terrible lapse saw Ben Thomson intercept a poor pass by Kenneth LeGrady and race past the flailing arms of Hugh Kitchener to make it 21-6. An astounding twenty handling errors in the first half clearly didn't help the Kelssekian cause.

A shellacking was no doubt dealt out at half-time. Combined with the superior conditioning of Kelssek's pros compared to the Liventian squad who were clearly tiring in the second half, Kelssek played a much more positive and dominant game for the second 40 minutes and could well have scored more than the two tries needed to win. Stephane Fournier and Josh Lachlan both celebrated tries off very solid build-up play as the team were clinical at the breakdown, strung good phases together, and systematically broke down the Liventian defence.

There is a sense, however, that the team must quickly shake off the rust and jet-lag and demonstrate the quality they clearly possess for the full 80 minutes. And while the offence clearly is firing away, defence is still leaving much to be desired.

The Albrecht Herald Online>Sport>RWC11>Latest

Nic Scotland in an uncertain location. There’s lots of French people here, if that helps Previous Candelariasian visits to Septentrionia have resulted in quarter-final tournament exits, to the Kosenic republics at the sixth ice hockey World Cup and to Zwangzug at the forty-second outing of soccer’s senior competition. Such a performance would be seen as a disappointment this time around, for the reigning rugby union world champions – but, on this evidence, the Huge Blues might be forced to take a last eight berth here and now, were it offered.

The opening match of the tournament for Adi Kinsella’s men was C&M’s first competitive defeat to a nation not starting with an ‘S’ and arguably their worst ever performance. The likes of Kelssek and the Sortherners also laboured, but at least they ultimately registered victories – C&M, instead, have been left with eight Herculean tasks if they wish to take a second title. For make no mistake – useful as they were, Peisandros are by no means the most impressive of the debutant performers. C&M may thank their lucky stars for an easy group, but even Lovisa suddenly look threatening, following their own demolition of Myedvedeya.

Perhaps the soon-to-be deposed reigning champions will face the Lovisans in their next game, perhaps not. Kinsella was quick to complain over the lack of a concrete tournament schedule that saw the bulk of the Candelariasian travelling support stuck in one half of the country and their team visiting an entirely different stadium. With a crowd of locals – and a handful of utterly lost Sortherners – cheering on the supposed underdogs, C&M were clearly going to suffer without their blue-and-green army behind them.

Not that you can make any excuses for this mess of a displau, of course. Kinsella described it as ‘almost surreally atrocious’, and he wasn’t wrong – almost every conceivable element of the Candelariasian play was poor at the very least, if not unforgivably woeful. Mark Webb has not been the same player since breaking his collarbone at the last RWC final – the most recent domestic seasons have seen a complete turnaround in his relationship with his team, with the Arrigo Eagles increasingly carrying the wing, rather than he they. His wonderful performance in the Play-off Shield final against the El din Bulls should not disguise that; and by anyone’s standards – especially his own – the Snowspire-born player had a shocking game. All but one of his seven penalty opportunities went awry, and Webb likewise fluffed C&M’s best try-scoring chance when a rare moment of mental skill allowed his club team-mate Juan Pablo O’Donovan to leave him in acres of space. How Webb actually failed to plant the ball on the right side of the line will surely remain an eternal mystery.

O’Donovan would go on to display a knack for profligacy seldom seen in the CRUC, and Douglas Lassissi likewise, though at least in this department Peisandros could be credited with solid defensive play. Their safety-first policy worked perfectly against their listless opponents, a single counter-attack shortly after the break leading to the try and subsequent conversion, from which the Candelariasians never looked likely to recover. By then, the Sandrians were already three penalties to the good, after a series of scrum infringements from the Huge Blues – always a problem, their set plays were truly embarrassing yesterday, also failing to win a single line-out.

C&M improved a little after Kinsella made a handful of late changes, but they served to lift the Candelariasians only onto ‘mediocre’ setting. Kinsella – a coach, lest we forget, with only the experience of the previous World Cup behind him – will have no choice but to utterly rethink his plans, and we can expect Matthew Masters, Zambrana Andries and Irish Street’s Ríoghbhardán Muintirlideadha all to be given a go, at the very least.

But, though they can and must do better than this, the Sandrians showed enough to suggest that the bar has genuinely been raised since the last World Cup and, whatever the make-up of the team, their hopes of doing the double may have been pipe dreams from the start.

Home before Christmas? Try home before the postcards. Shocking.

Rugby World Cup 11, Group Match 1
@ A Place, Septentrionia

Candelaria And Marquez 3
Pens: Webb (1)

Peisandros 19
Tries: Stelios Georgiadis, or someone (1)
Con: Giorgios Papadopoulos, probably (1)
Pens: Giorgios Papadopoulos again. I dunno. Why can’t these teams have their names on the back of their shirts, eh? (4)

Matchday 2 results:

Group A:
An Blascaod Mór 3 - 14 Kelssek
Liventia 12 - 17 Septentrionia


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-----------------------------------------------------------
1. Kelssek 2 0 0 0 41 24 17 8
2. Septentrionia 2 0 0 0 35 29 6 8
3. Liventia 0 0 2 2 33 44 -11 2
4. An Blascaod Mór 0 0 2 0 20 32 -12 0


Group B:
West Zirconia 23 - 20 Solenial
Alversia 12 - 33 Taeshan


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Taeshan 2 0 0 0 54 19 35 8
2. Solenial 1 0 1 1 60 47 13 5
3. West Zirconia 1 0 1 0 30 41 -11 4
4. Alversia 0 0 2 0 36 73 -37 0


Group C:
Idanno 35 - 20 Miroxia
Quintessence of Dust 0 - 25 Sorthern Northland


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Sorthern Northland 2 0 0 0 58 28 30 8
2. Idanno 1 0 1 1 63 53 10 5
3. Miroxia 1 0 1 0 52 55 -3 4
4. Quintessence of Dust 0 0 2 0 20 57 -37 0


Group D:
Peisandros 14 - 21 Lovisa
Myedvedeya 33 - 7 Candelaria and Marquez


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Lovisa 2 0 0 0 56 17 39 8
2. Peisandros 1 0 1 1 33 24 9 5
3. Myedvedeya 1 0 1 0 36 42 -6 4
4. Candelaria and Marquez 0 0 2 0 10 52 -42 0

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v232/174/108/719411980/t719411980_781038_8096.jpgIDANNO STALLIONShttp://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v232/174/108/719411980/t719411980_781038_8096.jpg
MD1 AND MD2 REVIEW:
1-1 AFTER THE FIRST TWO DAYS, and what a ride it has been. Losing in the opening contest to the mighty Sorthern Northland by 33 to 28.
Scorers:
Tries: Kwabena Mwenye (2):12th,46th; Tamati Timoti: 33rd; Byron Alexander: 79th.

Conversions: Kwesi Zuberi (3): 13th, 34th, 47th; Byron Alexander:79th.

Penalty Goals: Nil.

Drop Goals: Zuberi 0/2.

Best On Field for Idanno: Byron Alexander: 34 Tackles, 7 Points (1T, 1C), 14 Ball Steals.

In the Stallions second game, it was all on the line. if they didnt win, they were out of contention for the Semifinals. They faced a strong Miroxia, who had earlier defeated Quintessence of Dust. the game was tight, and only until the last 10 minutes did Idanno break away from the Miroxians with three tries to star substitution Refilwe Wiremu, or "JoJo" as the team has nicknamed him, in reference to his heritage.
Scorers:
Tries: Zuberi: 12th; Taonga Kwadwo: 60th; Wiremu (3): 71st, 73rd, 77th

Conversions: Zuberi 2/2: 13th, 61st; Alexander 0/3.

Penalty Goals: Zuberi 2/2: 5th, 34th.

Drop Goals: Zuberi 0/1 (missing just to the right post in the dying seconds, unable to bag a "Full House")

Best On Field for Idanno: Refilwe Wiremu: 3 Tries in 15 Minutes, 84-Metre run to score in 73rd minute.

The Stallions take on Quintessence of Dust in MD3. A win, depending on the results in the Miroxia/SN game can take the Stallions to the top of thier pool, or into second. a loss, and its all over for them.

STALLIONS STILL RULE!

Retrieved from Rugby Rants, http://rugbyrants.interblag.qd on 16-12-08.

What the @#%&*! was that?
by 22drop

Last night's performance by the All Greys, if it can be called a 'performance', brings to mind a joke my grandpa once told me:

The pessimist says: "Things can't get any worse." The optimist says: "Oh yes they can!

I mention this because my grandpa died last week. I was, at the time, very sad, but now I'm actually quite happy for him, for it did at least spare him watching last night's humiliating debacle.

Like many of you, I was very disturbed to hear that Bill Gerhard would not be starting, with a stomach infection. I'm not saying the result would have been completely different if he'd played - I've written before that I think he's too willing to kick, and should try running it from the back more often - but no way would be have wilted under the high ball like Willy Zimmerman and Sean Reilly did. More important, this team lacks confidence, and if those early penalties had been landed, they would have been off to such a strong start.

I was also disappointed not to see Benny Brooks start. Now, I understand they don't want to risk him in a long tournament, but the knee can't be seriously injured if he was training, and they could have at least given him a run to start off with. Dick Quentin is past his best, and Wolfgang Andrews was wasted in the front five. Remember his scrabbling around at every breakdown against Miroxia? None of that tonight.

Now, a lot of the guys over the QBC sports site are arguing about whether the first try was in touch or not. Guys, it really doesn't matter: they should never have been in that position in that first place. Reilly had an easy tackle, which he fluffed, Zimmerman was nowhere, and with McDiarmund stuck in a ruck you have to cover. So, toe on the line? Don't care, don't care: they had it coming regardless.

Yes, Jackie boy had a bad game, I agreed with the commentators on that. But then, wasn't it pretty obvious from the start that it wasn't his night? Why keep letting him kick?? Barry or Big Ted should have either pulled him, or slotted the backs around. Tommy Donegan kept running it himself in the second half - but what were his other choices?

They should have been able to stop the catch and drive for the second try - and remember where that came from: a Bernard Franks 'kick' that actually went backwards. Now, I was a big supporter of the move to centre for him, and I think he showed what he can do against the Miroxians, but tonight he was poor. You can't have both fly half and inside centre failing, you need someone strong in there.

We need to improve our handling, cut out our sloppy errors at the breakdown, and if it looks like Peters is about to punt someone needs to hold him down while I pummel him in the kidneys. A couple of good showings, and we'd be right back in it.

I won't hold my breath.

=======

2 Comments

1. numbereight writes:

Large needs to wake up and realize that Peters cannot play at stand off!!!!! >:[ Nought from two out of hand, and on the first hand he was kicking us out of a great scoring position, one man overlap with Ron and Sean both lined up, and nought from four from the deck!!! Oh, and your grandpa can still tackle better than him, by the way!!!! >:D

2. qdwomlm writes:

free online pharmacy

Rugby fans storm Lac-Amédée

Sorthern Northland last night continued their defence of their Rugby World Cup runners-up medal as they breezed past a surprisingly lacklustre Quintessence of Dust. The Quintessence of Dust team had been chosen by some so called Sorthern experts as dark horses for the tournament. Last night they showed little of that, lacking the leadership of Ben Brooks and the running of Bill Gerhard, Quintessence of Dust at times showed a weakness in defence and offered little in attacking play. Which was handy really as, the Sorthern team were also far from their best for a second match in a row. With little of the squad from the previous World Cup remaining some argue that this current squad isn't yet gelled enough to be world champions. However, the engine room of that squad remains with the Wilson triplets still in the team. At the last tournament they had an almost brotherly understanding of each other, which shouldn't be much of a surprise really. This time round though, the triplets seem less inclined to work with one another as rumours of a breakdown in family relations spread through the press like wildfire.

Elsewhere in Septentrionia, the city of Lac-Amédée was showing the world that Septentrionia is the best nation in the world at surrendering, after the city was sacked by a large group of Sorthern fans reportedly wielding such weapons as satsumas and kumquats. Having watched their team to victory the Sorthern fans, numbering in the region of quite a lot are said to have converged upon the centre of Lac-Amédée to stage a huge food fight, using the aforementioned satsumas and kumquats. Quite what happened next is unclear, but it seems that somewhere along the line there was a misunderstanding, with the local population thinking they were being invaded. A shriek and a battle cry later and a white flag was raised and the city deserted by locals much to the confusion and bemusement of the Sorthern fans. Talks are said to be ongoing to hand the city back to locals, but the Septentrioniens seem as yet unwilling to go back on their surrender.

An Blascaod Mór Rugby World Cup 11 Squad

1.Ossian Dunlevy (Prop)
2. Liam O'Neill (Hooker)
3.Tomás Shey (Prop)
4.Colman O'Sullivan (Lock)
5.Niall O'Sullivan (Lock)
6.Conor Quinn (Flanker)
7.Séamus Dunlevy (Flanker)
8.Patty Maloney (Number 8)

9.Frankie O'Donnovon (Scrum half)
10.Cathal Mac Donnchadh (Fly half)
11.Ciarán Cadhla (Left wing)
12.Fearghal Flannagáin (Inside centre)
13.Colm Dubhghaill (Outside centre)
14.Eamon Quinn (Right wing)
15.Conor Ó Faoláin (Full back)

If My Opponent RP's First they may:

Choose My Point Scorers: Y
Godmod Events: N
Injure My Players: Y
Put my players in Sinbin: Y

only sending 15 players?
not even 1 reserve?

Idanno: This is the RP Thread. For general comments, I point you to the sign-ups thread. The next time you post a non-RP related comment in here, unless that comment is about an error in the tables, you'll get all your RP Bonus removed.

Matchday 3 scores:

Group A:
Liventia 45 - 44 An Blascaod Mór
Septentrionia 14 - 13 Kelssek


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-----------------------------------------------------------
1. Septentrionia 3 0 0 0 49 42 7 12
2. Kelssek 2 0 1 1 54 38 16 9
3. Liventia 1 0 2 2 78 88 -10 6
4. An Blascaod Mór 0 0 3 1 64 77 -13 1


Group B:
Alversia 31 - 36 West Zirconia
Taeshan 16 - 34 Solenial


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-----------------------------------------------------------
1. Solenial 2 0 1 1 94 63 31 9
2. Taeshan 2 0 1 0 70 53 17 8
3. West Zirconia 2 0 1 0 66 72 -6 8
4. Alversia 0 0 3 1 67 109 -42 1


Group C:
Quintessence of Dust 17 - 32 Idanno
Sorthern Northland 26 - 17 Miroxia


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
----------------------------------------------------------------
1. Sorthern Northland 3 0 0 0 84 45 39 12
2. Idanno 2 0 1 1 95 70 25 9
3. Miroxia 1 0 2 0 69 81 -12 4
4. Quintessence of Dust 0 0 3 0 37 89 -52 0


Group D:
Myedvedeya 10 - 0 Peisandros
Candelaria and Marquez 7 - 26 Lovisa


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Lovisa 3 0 0 0 82 24 58 12
2. Myedvedeya 2 0 1 0 46 42 4 8
3. Peisandros 1 0 2 1 33 34 -1 5
4. Candelaria and Marquez 0 0 3 0 17 78 -61 0

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v232/174/108/719411980/t719411980_781038_8096.jpgIDANNO STALLIONShttp://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v232/174/108/719411980/t719411980_781038_8096.jpg
QUARTER FINALS HERE WE COME!
WHAT A DAY FOR RUGBY IN IDANNO. The Stallions have qualified for the quarter finals of the Rugby World Cup, noting them as one of the top 8 teams in the world....who are in this tournament. Idanno 32 Defeats Quintessence of Dust 17.
Scorers:
Tries: Kwabena Mwenye (2):40th,46th; Byron Alexander (2): 59th, 77th.

Conversions: Kwesi Zuberi 3/4: 40th, 47th, 78th.

Penalty Goals: Zuberi 1/3: 13th

Drop Goals: Zuberi 1/2: 4th

Best On Field for Idanno: Kwesi Zuberi: 12 Points, 24 Tackles, 4 Ball Steals

STALLIONS STILL RULE!

“…nforce the follow-on, and Khatib are making heavy weather of it once again. They’re on fifty-two for four at lunch, Abdel Karim Thomas leading the way on an unbeaten thirty-six – all four of those wickets, incidentally, falling to Joseph Collins.

“Alright, well sticking with sport… after a fashion… and the Huge Blues are in Septentrionia as they bid to retain their title at the eleventh Rugby World Cup… Lizzy Capper’s in… Ourseville, let’s say, for the sake of argument, for us… Lizzy?”

“Yes, good morning, Greg… Or, ‘Guten Tag’, as they say over here… Yes, I’m in Horseville for the eleventh Rugby World Cup as the Huge Blues bid to retain their title, and by Adi Kinsella’s own admission, it’s not going particularly we–”

*Thmp*

“Pardon, Madame, mai oui ‘ave our boule bag?”

“Why of course, young man, since you asked so nicely.”

“And would ma’m’selle oieesh tu jhon ous dans our merrimont ‘olesomme?

“Bugger off, kid, I’m doing a piece to camera…”

“Comme vous souhaitez… Oi, Jean-Paul! I believe it is your turn to go in goal!”

“Sod that…”

“Well yes Greg, as you can see, with tournament organisers failing to provide stadia, the competing teams have had to make their own arrangements. The C&M versus Lovisa match, for example, took place earlier today in this playground outside an Ourseville école primaire, with the Lovisans running in two tries, two conversions and four penalties, to Juan Pablo O’Donovan’s single early try and the conversion from Zambrana Andries.

“Matthew Whitehead’s rib injuries, picked up after careering straight into a basketball hoop, only added to the nightmarish nature of the Candelariasian campaign in Septentrionia thus far, with the match against Myedvedeya already widely derided as the worst ever performance by a Candelariasian side in any sport, anywhere, ever. This third defeat leaves the Huge Blues easily the worst team at the World Cup, and raises the interesting question of whether this is now the worst performance by any defending champion, in any sport, anywhere, ever. Back to you in the studio.”

“Lizzy, can Adi Kinsella and his team take any positives from this game? They’ve still got three matches left to qualify after all.”

“No, Jenny, there are no positives that can be taken from this whatsoever. Frankly, the women’s curling team expected to travel to Kelssek early next year would have given a better show of it against Lovisa, and to my knowledge, we don’t even play that sport. Perhaps, let’s not beat about the bush, we really shouldn’t be playing rugby, either. Indeed, I look forward to us hosting the inaugural Peil Ghaelach World Cup, safe in the knowledge that we can at least lose in the final, which is more than this shower will ever be able to manage. Technically outclassed, physically overpowered, mentally overawed, the so-called Huge Blues were ill-disciplined, ill at ease, and utterly disinterested in even being here. Of course, they were let down by the equally inept coaching staff – but lions led by donkies? More like lemmings led by pygmy wombats, Jenny. Back to you in the studio.

“Lizzy… Clearly the conditions weren’t to the liking of Kinsella and the players, bu–”

“No, Greg, they weren’t. Kinsella led the way in complaining bitterly of his players being tripped from the sidelines by ten year-old students, and that the chalk outlines indicating the field of play were being drawn and redrawn mid-match to the advantage of the Lovisans, several of whom appear to have remained here to enrol… Including Andrzej and Józef here… Say hello, boys…

“Dzien dobry…?”

“French is a beautiful language, don’t you think? Anyway, their loss to the Lovisan team will be keenly felt, but frankly a bunch of monkeys, even cheese-eating surrender ones, could beat Candelaria And Marquez right now, and Lovisa and Myedvedeya have the top two places sewn up. The next game meanwhile, against Peidandros, is apparently going to take place underwater, so bring les snòrkelles, le flippére, and remember: Don’t have nightmares. This is Lizzy Capper, off to find out whether it’s true what they says about French boys, for TTO News, in Ourseville.”

“Alright, thank you Lizzy. Bat and Trap now, and the Running Camel have moved to the top of Division A with just two weeks to go, with a two-one win over their title rivals from the Seven Frosty Pheasants. The Turk’s Arms remain third following a two-nil blow-out of the Little Black Boy, but remain embroiled in controversy after star fielder Gordon Chapman failed to turn up for drugs testing, an…”

"Corner Flag... with Ross McKey and John Barry."

"Kelssek in a very disappointing 14-13 loss to the hosts..." began Ross, bracing himself for John Barry's always explosive entry into rant mode.

"They've been gibberingly useless!! Kelssek have been just playing like a bunch of fairies out there! I keep telling ya, you've got to play hard, not keep pussyfooting and kicking about all over the place, and if the opponent gets into your 22 YOU KILL THEM!!"

Visibly wincing, Ross continued "One quite, uh dramatic incident, where McLachlan threw a punch over an incident at a ruck..."

"YEAH! Put it up!..." the video of the incident appeared on the screen. "Here's Ross McLachlan, look at him, punching that stupid-looking Septy in the face, after that dirty little bugger tickled poor ol' Julian Smythe in that ruck. Yeah! That's the way to do it! You stand up for your teammates out there! You know what, say all you wanna say about lack of respect and all that, we should just take that Septy and have the entire forward pack rake their studs on his face... THAT'LL TEACH HIM!! YOU DON'T DO STUFF LIKE THAT!"

Watching carefully if John was about to lapse into a frenzied rage, Ross meekly ventured, "And of course there was controversy over that second try by Septentrionia..."

"It was a FORWARD PASS, which is what you expect from those DAMN FRENCHIES! They can't get a win without cheating, the referee should have called it, I don't know WHAT HE'S DOING OUT THERE!... But let's look at that one try Kelssek DID score in an otherwise USELESS match. Put it up... here he is, William Deekes, good Kelssekian boy... no nonsense at all, he's got two tacklers on him and he gets it over the try line! Good Kelssekian boy, eh?... from, uh, Winkler, Etnier, was it?"

"Actually, he's from Kirkenes and he also plays for the Crusaders."

"Oh, GODDAMN! I hate goddamn Kirkenes."

"We're out of time-"

"WHAT?!?"

"John Barry on Corner Flag, KBC's special Rugby World Cup coverage," said Ross, quickly fleeing the studio.

"I HATE FUCKING KIRKENES!!"

WEST ZIRCONIA IN "WE WON TWICE" SCANDAL

Cries of disbelief rang out all across Septentrionia, as well as echoing around the West Zirconian RFU headquarters in Bradley, as West Zirconia chalked up not one, but two victories in the World Cup.

First were Solenial, ranked fifth in the world. Having been humbled by Taeshan in the opening match, the team's tactics were radically changed, a gamble which paid off handsomely in a 23-20 victory. However, it must be noted that the game was ultimately won - or rather, lost - by poor kicking by the Solenialians/Solenialese/Solenialois/whatever the demonym is, with points dropped from four unconverted tries proving to be their undoing. Contrast that with Geoff Rodgers, whose two conversions and three penalties edged the match in West Zirconia's favour.

An equally exciting encounter saw West Zirconia beat fellow-débutants Alversia 36-31. The game saw six tries in total, and a flurry of drop-goals as the lead changed hands no less than five times. The only down-side in the game was an injury to Stephen Jones, who was replaced by Phil Radcliffe. Jones is a doubt for the next game.


West Zirconia 23-20 Solenial

Scores:

0-5 A.N.Other try (8)
3-5 Rodgers penalty (15)
3-10 A.N.Other try (18)
8-10 Berry try (32)
10-10 Rodgers conversion (32)
13-10 Rodgers penalty (44)
16-10 Rodgers penalty (53)
16-15 A.N.Other try (66)
16-20 A.N.Other try (72)
21-20 Gibson try (75)
23-20 Rodgers conversion (75)


West Zirconia 36-31 Alversia
Scores:

5-0 Berry try (3)
7-0 Rodgers conversion (3)
10-0 Rodgers penalty (12)
10-5 McNamee try (15)
13-5 Rodgers penalty (17)
13-10 Williams try (23)
13-12 Martins conversion (23)
18-12 Parker try (34)
20-12 Rodgers conversion (34)
20-15 Martins penalty (55)
20-20 Creaney try (58)
20-22 Martins conversion (58)
23-22 Forrester drop-goal (63)
26-22 Rodgers penalty (68)
26-25 Murty drop-goal (70)
26-28 Martins drop-goal (72)
29-28 Parker drop-goal (75)
29-31 Murty drop-goal (77)
34-31 Henry try (79)
36-31 Rodgers conversion (79)

The New Cleethorpes Enquirer
Hope

Quintessence of Dust suffered their third successive defeat in Group C of Rugby World Cup 11, with Idanno scrum half Bryon Alexander sneaking his second try of the game two minutes from time to shut out any chance of a consolation bonus point. The All Greys remain adrift at the bottom of the group with no points, and now need to win all their remaining games to retain a realistic chance of qualification.

Nonetheless, in a game in which his side were again comprehensively outplayed, Edward 'Big Ted' Large opined that the performance represented, "Hope". He was unclear on the specifics.

Controversial stand off Jack Peters was again under fire after a dismal showing in which his opposite number, the outstanding, Kwesi Zuberi, ran rings around him. He missed an ambitious drop goal attempt early on, had a clearance charged down for a try after lingering in possession, and fumbled once too often, trudging off the pitch after only 56 minutes of play.

Fullback Bill Gerhard returned, fit again after sitting out the rout against Sorth Northland with a stomach infection, but was unable to conjure up any magic to inspire his colleagues. After a couple of bright runs early on, he missed a deep penalty on the stroke of ten minutes, and settled down to an unremarkable performance.

Zuberi's boot put the Stallions 6-0 up inside the first quarter of an hour, with the All Greys missing two chances to draw level. Gerhard grabbed a penalty to avoid going in scoreless at the halfway mark, but disaster struck when Peters dallied with the ball off the restart, and Kwabena Mwenye netted the first of his tries just before the whistle, charging down the languid punt and fending off Ron Diller, whose performance this tournament has thus far been hugely disappointing after a strong season for Highmark Bees.

The Stallions resumed with a set of attacking moves culminating in a seemingly inevitable second for Mwenye, ducking inside a disorganized All Grey line to practically walk over. 17 points adrift, though, they rallied superbly to bring the game just back into contention for a few fleeting moments.

First, Tommy Donegan summoned a brilliant response, tapping a quick penalty after an Idanno infringement at the ruck, and sending a spiralling kick off his left foot to Wolfgang Andrews, who galloped to the corner to score. Donegan's kicking was strong all game, in stark contrast to his outside number's weak efforts. Gerhard picked up the difficult conversion. Then Olafson powered down the middle to gain valuable yards, from which the All Greys launched their best running moves of the game, culminating in a virtuoso finish from the vastly improved Bernard Franks, who broke a tackle, then chipped cleverly ahead to finish in style with his second try of the tournament.

Another Gerhard conversion brought the scores to 20-17. But Donegan's opposite number Alexander also had a strong game, running in two tries to take it away from the dispirited All Greys, who couldn't muster an effective response.

The All Greys could take away several positives. Their back row remains one strong, Donegan is one of the most exciting scrum halfs on display, and their midfield finally demonstrated what they were capable of, with strong running from Franks, some adeptly timed passing from McDiarmund, and tenacious tackling from both. But still they lack cohesion as a team, and until they are able to convert some good attributes into winning performances will not be able to challenge at the international level.

______

Quintessence of Dust: Gerhard; Diller, McDiarmund, Franks, Reilly; Peters, Donegan; Wilmot, Cooper, Pullman (c), Mensen, Brooks, Andrews, Friedman, Olafson.
Replacements: W. Zimmerman, Willow, Nibbles, B. Zimmerman, Quentin.
Tries: Andrews, Franks
Conversions: Gerhard (2)
Penalties: Gerhard (1/2)

Matchday 4 results

Group A:
An Blascaod Mór 45 - 3 Septentrionia
Liventia 0 - 30 Kelssek


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-----------------------------------------------------------
1. Kelssek 3 0 1 1 84 38 46 13
2. Septentrionia 3 0 1 0 52 87 -35 12
3. Liventia 1 0 3 2 78 118 -40 6
4. An Blascaod Mór 1 0 3 1 109 80 29 5


Group B:
West Zirconia 5 - 20 Taeshan
Alversia 10 - 13 Solenial


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
---------------------------------------------------------
1. Solenial 3 0 1 1 107 73 34 13
2. Taeshan 3 0 1 0 90 58 32 12
3. West Zirconia 2 0 2 0 71 92 -21 8
4. Alversia 0 0 4 2 77 122 -45 2 E


Group C:
Idanno 20 - 10 Sorthern Northland
Quintessence of Dust 28 - 10 Miroxia


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
----------------------------------------------------------------
1. Idanno 3 0 1 1 115 80 35 13 Q
2. Sorthern Northland 3 0 1 0 94 65 29 12
3. Miroxia 1 0 3 0 79 109 -30 4
4. Quintessence of Dust 1 0 3 0 65 99 -34 4


Group D:
Peisandros 26 - 43 Candelaria and Marquez
Myedvedeya 17 - 49 Lovisa


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Lovisa 4 0 0 0 131 41 90 16 Q
2. Myedvedeya 2 0 2 0 63 91 -28 8
3. Peisandros 1 0 3 1 59 77 -18 5
4. Candelaria and Marquez 1 0 3 0 60 104 -44 4

Sorry for the general boringness of this.

"Welcome to Sport Gort, I'm Alyssa Banana, and I'm joined here in the studio by Esteban Caracas and William Bentley."

"Hi."
CAPTION: Esteban Caracas

"Hello."
CAPTION: William Bentley, former Elvis Cup winner

"Coming up, we have all the action from the Stendhal Cup at the Valley of an Assortment of Iguanas, plus a special report on Quintessence of Dust's preparations for the coming Winter Olympics. And, of course, all the scores from around the country. First, though, rugby, as the All Greys finally ended their losing streak to record their first international victory, and keep their qualifying chances - just barely - alive.

"Yesterday saw the first teams confirm their places in the quarter-finals. Lovisa, the only side still unbeaten, ran in 49 points against Myedvedeya, while in Group C Idanno registered a surprise victory against Sorth Northland. That means the All Greys will now need to win against the world number 2's in order to have any chance of continuing to the next round."

"Tee hee, you said 'number 2's'."

"Yes, Esteban. Now, William, a vastly improved performance today?"

"Yes, very much so. It wasn't flashy, but it got the job done. All skills, no frills."

"Any more cliches?"

"No, I'm good for the minute. Esteban?"

"Yes, I agree with Bill. It wasn't an exciting approach, but right now they don't need to be exciting: they just need to win!"

"Yes. Of course, things didn't really start off as planned. 3-3 after twenty minutes of - well, I think you said it best, 'unexciting' - rugby, and then this."

Footage of the Miroxian try plays.

"They just got worn down by sheer force of numbers here. The pack, collectively, had a great game, but here they couldn't quell the Miroxian advance. I thought Donegan might have tried to get a hand under it, but it's difficult to say."

"Yes, I agree with Bill. But also, I think Diller should have been able to get that tackle in. He's been very disappointing this tournament. Much brighter in offence today, but for such a strong fellow his tackling is subpar."

"Ok. So, two Bill Gerhard penalties took them within one point at half-time, still in contention - and, I think, the balance was in their favour?"

"Yes, they'd been on top. Mensen and Brooks both had superb games. There was the sin binning of course, but still, really sharp, and from early on they were causing trouble at the lineouts, while Cooper hit his jumpers all evening."

"Immediately on the restart, they took the lead. A great try by Benjamin Brooks."

Footage of try.

"Well, like Bill said, the second rows both had great games, and this is a classic move. Good tactical kicking from Sean Reilly to win a lineout in the pressure zone, and the Miroxians couldn't hold it together: Mensen wins the ball, strong drive from Andrews, spinning finish by Brooks. Solid forward try, all things considered, and richly deserved: eight tired sets of legs by the end of the night."

"The second try saw Reilly score. He's another player who's struggled so far, isn't he, but he played well tonight?"

"He played very well tonight. He's not a natural at left wing - and some of his best playing today came standing off - and perhaps they could explore using him at 10 or 12. No one doubts his skill though."

Footage of try begins to play.

"Good run by Diller, excellent break straight off the back of the ruck by Mensen, and Peters timed his pass to absolute perfection. If we can get a top-down shot? Yeah, you can see there, cutting across to take out the two tacklers, and then BAM! at the last minute. Yeah, ha, the slide over, but really a simple finish off the good burst of pace. All round quality rugby - if the conversion hadn't been spliced, would have been perfect."

"Just to add to what Esteban said there, it was a great jigging run by Jack Peters - and he was so much improved it was like a different player. Very frustrating, in a way! If he could make up his mind and either play like last night, he'd be cemented in at 10, or play like the couple of games, and no doubt be dropped. But mixing between the two? Come on!"

"Esteban, do you think he should play at stand off?"

"I do, I think he needs to be given a chance. I think it's a case of playing to his strengths. He's very quick - could perhaps give Diller the heel, on a good day - and his timing is superb. His kicking is erratic, though, and I think he relies too heavily on the weakest part of his game as a result. Now I'm a fan of Big Bernie, but he's a crash centre, make no mistake, so we expect the invention to come from the halfbacks."

"Ok. Before we look at the final try, let's talk about the one that got away."

Footage plays.

"Barry Pullman's been a great skipper, the losses are no reflection on his leadership, but he's no outfield player."

"Haha, no. Stunning interception by Franks, but he didn't quite have the legs himself. If he'd gone left, he'd have hit Mensen, and maybe seven points; but he went right, and Barry couldn't quite cling onto the pass. A real shame, but ultimately, it didn't matter."

"Now, Esteban, about the sin binning of Benjamin Brooks. Fair?"

Footage plays.

"I'm not sure. It was high, but he's a naturally tall player. Was it too high? Possibly. But dangerous? No, I don't agree. I think it's a stoppage for sure, but he should have stayed on the pitch."

"The citing system thus far has not been brilliant, I might add. Very uneven, and it makes hard for players to know the limits."

"Ok. Well, fortunately it didn't matter, and he was back onfield for the end of the match, just in time to see the final try to turn a winning margin into a convincing one."

Footage of try, and then of end of match celebrations.

"Yeah, this is a cracker. Friedman has been very good all tournament, and this was deserved."

"Esteban, I understand you played with him?"

"Many years ago, ha ha, yes. And in fact, back then, he was playing at 10 or 12. So perhaps that is another option. Though, I think it would be a waste: better to have a tough flanker with great skills."

"It was a great pass from McDiarmund - he's played well so far, as well. Belied his critics, who said he was too small for a centre. Well, he'd tackle a brick wall. And here, beautiful long pass, and then whack, thwack, fends off allcomers, slides in. Difficult conversion...piece of cake, really!"

"So, with that, the All Greys retain a slim chance of qualifying, and have at least ended their losing streak. We'll be live with the match against Sorth Northland tomorrow. Thanks to William Bentley and Esteban Caracas. Now, let's go to April Chainsaw for the action at the Valley of an Assortment of Iguanas.

*CLICK*

“…ssandro Fattizzo… to open the match… first point, on offer… such a lovely, sweeping action, quite… erotic, in its own way… so elegant and yet… so precise… nothing left to doubt… forward… rolls it… very little bounce… ooh… oooh!... ooh, that’s… and it gets better, and that’s very, very close… that’s absolutely lovely… and that may well be enough, in time, you wonder…”

*CLICK*

“…azh we dive into zhe bryony deep… Plopplopplopplopplop… For eezh it not said; zhe bezht way to obzherve a feesh, is to become… a…. feesh? Is zhat a rrrhugby team?! Plopplopplopplopplop.”

“Clam it, Frenchie, we’re going live in six seconds… Plopplopplopplopplop”

“But… I am zherveying zhe ozhan floor! Zhis is vitalle worke de consovazhionne, madamme! Plopplopplopplopplop”

“Whoop-de-doop… We’re actually winnin’ he… Yes, thanks Greg…! Plopplopplopplopplop… You join me six miles off the coast of Vaudreuillois, where the quest for places to actually play the group stage matches at the eleventh… plopplopplopplopplop… Rugby World Cup has brought us here, under the sea; and Greg, I can officially confirm that it is indeed better where it’s wetter, and, what is more, that nobody has beat us, fried us, or eaten us; metaphorically or otherwise, Greg. Plopplopplopplopplop. No, instead life is sweet here for the Huge Blues, who ar–”

“Excesez-moi, mon bonbon, but my work is of… plopplopplopplopplop… importonzhe inestibluh! It cannot be interrupted for mere… rrrrhugby playerz! Plopplopplopplopplop…”

“Well, as you can see Greg, we’ve got quite a crowd here, and what a performance they’ve been treated… plopplopplopplopplop… to! The Candelariasians adapted to the conditions rather faster than their Sandrian counterparts, and were ahead after barely three minutes; Jason Andrews rising highest from a lineout – almost touching the surface, in fact, and…plopplopplopplopplop… making the most of the three-dimensional arena by swimming in a try from sixty nautical metres with the Peisandros defence nowhere to be seen. Plopplopplopplopplop… Zamabrana Andries’ conversion was helped on its way by a pod of dolphins, a recurring feature of this game thus far, and ruled by the Sorthern referee to constitute part of the field of play. Two penalties took the Sandrians right back in it, particularly… plopplopplopplopplop… after Juan Pablo O’Donovan snapped a vent valve on his buoyancy compensator and had to be substituted. Five minutes later however, his replacement Fal–”

“SHAAAAAAAAAAAARK!!”

“Never fear, Jacques iz here! I zhall bop him ze ‘ed with zis little mallet! Plopplopplopplopplop…”

“…ilkinson stormed past the Peisandros forward line in a move that Marco Antonio Gabriel de Anda would have been proud of. Plopplopplopplopplop… The Bass King Sharks wi–”

“SHAAAAAAAAAAAAARK!!”

“…ger added a third try and James Torrens a spectacular drop goal, and while there’s this break… plopplopplopplopplop… in play, I can tell you that–”

“OCTOPUS!!

“…nd Marquez have just gone thirty-two sixteen up with a try from Douglas Lassissi, the experienced fullback – a veteran of the eighth World Cup – storming from one end… plopplopplopplopplop… to the other, under pressure fro–”

“COELACAAAAAANTH!!

“…arge bull shark, surely an act beyond the call of duty. Plopplopplopplopplop… One sour point was that Thomas Patterson was cited for flippering and could still miss the remaining group games, bu–”

“LAMPREEEEYSSS!!

“Ahh, you can never ‘af too many lampreyzh… Plopplopplopplopplop”

“…ays like this, Adi Kinsella will certainly be happy with a performance that gives C&M a lifeline to… plopplopplopplopplop… cling on t–”

“DEVIL’S HOLE PUPFISH!! Loads of the buggers!”

“Really? Zhis izh un braktrew oncredribluh!”

“…im hopes of making the quarter-finals. This i–”

“SHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARK!!!”

“…izzy Capper, waiting to be hauled to safety, off the cost of the Île du Nord, for TTO Spoooooort!!”

*CLICK*

“…aves de Souza… just the two efforts left to go… big long run-up here… he’s in, that’s a big throw… so much power from this young man… ooh! Well, that’s pretty much perfect, look at that… removes Fattizzo’s balls as if they weren’t there… and that, surely… no… no… there was, we’re hearing, a… pigeon, on the court, at the time of the throw… so that will be discounted… oh dear… Well that’s a… that’s a pity, but that’s professional bocce, I’m afraid… the cut and thrust thereof… And he’s not happy, look at that… dear me… well, you live and learn, son… you live and learn…”

*CLICK*

Matchday 5 A.K.A.We can also draw things! Results

Group A:
Kelssek 35 - 13 An Blascaod Mór
Septentrionia 28 - 40 Liventia


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-------------------------------------------------------------
1. Kelssek 4 0 1 1 119 51 68 17 Q
2. Septentrionia 3 0 2 0 80 127 -47 12
3. Liventia 2 0 3 2 118 146 -28 10
4. An Blascaod Mór 1 0 4 1 122 115 7 5 E


Group B:
Solenial 22 - 28 West Zirconia
Taeshan 28 - 16 Alversia


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
----------------------------------------------------------
1. Taeshan 4 0 1 0 118 74 44 16
2. Solenial 3 0 2 2 129 101 28 14
3. West Zirconia 3 0 2 0 99 114 -15 12
4. Alversia 0 0 5 2 93 150 -57 2 E


Group C:
Miroxia 21 - 21 Idanno
Sorthern Northland 7 - 0 Quintessence of Dust


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. Sorthern Northland 4 0 1 0 101 65 36 16 Q
2. Idanno 3 1 1 1 136 101 35 15 Q
3. Miroxia 1 1 3 0 100 130 -30 6 E
4. Quintessence of Dust 1 0 4 1 65 106 -41 5 E


Group D:
Lovisa 5 - 49 Peisandros
Candelaria and Marquez 29 - 10 Myedvedeya


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Lovisa 4 0 1 0 136 90 46 16 Q
2. Peisandros 2 0 3 1 108 82 26 9
3. Candelaria and Marquez 2 0 3 0 89 114 -25 8
4. Myedvedeya 2 0 3 0 73 120 -47 8

And now, it's time for the time everybody (ok, not those who are already out) was waiting for:

Matchday 6 results:

Group A:
An Blascaod Mór 15 - 17 Liventia
Kelssek 14 - 10 Septentrionia


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
------------------------------------------------------------
1. Kelssek 5 0 1 1 133 61 72 21 Q
2. Liventia 3 0 3 2 135 161 -26 14 Q
3. Septentrionia 3 0 3 1 90 141 -51 13 E
4. An Blascaod Mór 1 0 5 2 137 132 5 6 E

Group B:
West Zirconia 27 - 21 Alversia
Solenial 27 - 9 Taeshan


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
----------------------------------------------------------
1. Solenial 4 0 2 2 156 110 46 18 Q
2. Taeshan 4 0 2 0 127 101 26 16 Q*
3. West Zirconia 4 0 2 0 126 135 -9 16 E*
4. Alversia 0 0 6 3 114 177 -63 3 E

* Taeshan advance on more wins against West Zirconia (2nd tie-breaker)

Group C:
Idanno 34 - 24 Quintessence of Dust
Miroxia 22 - 3 Sorthern Northland


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. Idanno 4 1 1 1 170 125 45 19 Q
2. Sorthern Northland 4 0 2 0 104 87 17 16 Q
3. Miroxia 2 1 3 0 122 133 -11 10 E
4. Quintessence of Dust 1 0 5 1 89 140 -51 5 E


Group D:
Peisandros 29 - 10 Myedvedeya
Lovisa 42 - 7 Candelaria and Marquez


P. Team W D L BP PF PA PD Pts
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Lovisa 5 0 1 0 178 97 81 20 Q
2. Peisandros 3 0 3 1 137 92 45 13 Q
3. Candelaria and Marquez 2 0 4 0 96 156 -60 8 E*
4. Myedvedeya 2 0 4 0 83 149 -66 8 E*

* Candelaria and Marquez are 3rd on Points differential (3rd tie-breaker: both teams' record against each other is 1-1)

Thank you to those who participated in this Rugby World Cup but got eliminated out of it. For some nations, that was quite harsh on them (you all know which one I'm speaking of), but random numbers or my scorinator hates that nation. For those who continue, good luck in your quest.

Quarter-final matchups:

Kelssek - Liventia @ Parc Richelieu, Lac-Amédée (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/Oli55/ParcRichelieuRugby-2.jpg) (Capacity: 40,000)
Idanno - Taeshan @ Stade du Dauphin, Dauphin (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/Oli55/StadeduDauphinrugby.jpg) (Capacity: 50,000)
Lovisa - Sorthern Northland @ Stade des Vals, Val-Profond (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/Oli55/Stadedesvalsrugby.jpg) (Capacity: 56,341)
Solenial - Peisandros @ Stade du Rivage, Ourseville (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/Oli55/StadeduRivageRugby.jpg) (Capacity: 68,300)

Snoozefest sees SN into knockouts

After a slip up against Idanno, the Sortherners finally booked their place in the Rugby World Cup quarter finals with a slender victory over Quintessence of Dust. However it was far from the somewhat easy victory that had been the previous match against QoD, with the Sortherners struggling to put points on the board, or even really hold on to the ball, and QoD suffering from similar problems.

Indeed the match was so poor that anyone watching will likely have switched channel well before the Sortherners finally got a try some seventy minutes into the match, and anyone still watching was likely asleep. The try was one that was very much typical of much of the play in the game. A long punt up field by Wong Man-Sing seemed to have been covered by QoD fullback Bill Gerhard, for whatever reason though, Gerhad failed to secure the ball, instead catching it but not holding it, the ball instead was dropped behind for the onrushing Alejandro Wright to touch the ball down under the posts leaving Noel Neyson with a simple kick to secure a seven point win, and a place in the quarter finals.

With progress already secured the Sorthern management decided to change things around completely, with fifteen changes in the starting XV for the final group stage game against Miroxia. The result of that was an even worse performance than the one against Quintessence of Dust. Sorthern Northland's fifteen reserves today showed exactly why they are reserves with countless mistakes allowing the already knocked out Miroxians to put points on the board on several occasions. The only positive on show for Sorthern Northland was young Brian Ngoli, the inside centre from the Candelariasians of Beningrad Rugby Club. The youngster was about the only Sortherner who seemed likely to cause a problem to Miroxia, and indeed he was, as on the brink of half time with the Sortherners seven points down he kicked the ball over from out on the wing for SN's only points of the game. After that it was all downhill as Miroxia dominated the second half, adding an extra fifteen points to the scoreboard.

Born in Brayton, Candelaria, and raised in Rothsbere, Ngoli was one of a number of players, who as has become tradition prior to Rugby World Cups for many players was given the choice of representing the SN or the C&M in the tournament. Ngoli chose Sorthern Northland, explaining that is was in Sorthern Northland that he had learnt his trade and picked up his love for the game, and that it was in Sorthern Northland that he watched on with sadness as Candelaria And Marquez triumphed over Sorthern Northland at the last Rugby World Cup. When asked, prior to the tournament what he thought the final would be, he promptly replied, “the same as last time, with the opposite result”. Much to the sadness of him, and millions of others in Sorthern Northland though, that will not happen. Going into the final match of the group stages, Candelaria And Marquez needed a win and for Peisandros to lose if they were to progress. Neither happened. From world champions to out in the group stages it has been a rapid and perhaps undeserved descent for Canderlaria And Marquez. It does however prove one thing, the Rugby World Cup is not the two horse race many in Sorthern Northland considered it to be. If Canderlaria And Marquez can fall, Sorthern Northland can to, and with two defeats in the last three matches for the SN, that reminded could have come at just the right time, especially with the eternal giant killers, Lovisa being their opponent in the quarter finals.

National Coach Johnson Johnson, on Idanno's draw in the Quarter Finals, Taeshan
TAESHAN! YOU BEST BRING YOUR 'A' GAME! 'CAUSE NOTHING ELSE YOU GUYS PUT FORWARD WILL EVEN LOOK LIKE STOPPING OUR BOYS FROM ADVANCING TO THE SEMIS! WE HAVE BEEN RIDING ON A WAVE OF SUCCESS!...ACTUALLY, ITS MORE LIKE A TSUNAMI OF SUCCESS! AND ITS GONNA SMASH THROUGH YOU AND ALL THOSE WHO STAND BEFORE US AND THE WORLD CUP! STALLIONS RULE!

OOC: Grrrr. Oh well, disappointing, but it was fun. CAM, your posts were brilliant. I know the following confers no post facto RP bonus, but for the sake of completion on a boring Sunday evening:

The New Cleethorpes Enquirer
Thanks...

Quintessence of Dust crashed out of Rugby World Cup 11 this week, with disappointing losses to Sorthern Northland and Idanno. Coach Edward 'Big Ted' Large thanked the team for their efforts and the supporters for their dedication in showing up in numbers in at times sparsely attended competition. He admitted the team needed to work harder to be competitive at the next RWC, but added that he had no intention of missing out on it.

The QRUB have confirmed that despite the team's losing 5 of their 6 games, Large and captain Barry Pullman would remain in place for the foreseeable future.

Ejection was confirmed in an abysmal showing against an underpar Sorthern Northland side. In atrocious conditions, with rain turning the pitch to a muddy bog and a vicious crosswind playing havoc with the ball, both sides put on a shocking display. For every error, there was a counter: the ball was knocked on only for it to be fumbled in return, scrums wheeled one way and then the other, tackles were missed only for the runner to slip and fall, and both lineout games went to pieces.

Just one score decided it, an awful try for the Sorthern Northlanders after a catastrophic fumble by Bill Gerhard, folding under the pressure of a swerving high ball. The All Greys, smeared brown by the end, had precious few opportunities: Tommy Donegan almost nipped over only for the ball to pop out of his hands, Rene Friedman crashed a snap drop goal attempt into the post, and Gerhard missed a penalty, but otherwise, neither side ever looked like manufacturing a score.

Eliminated, but not down and out, the side then faced off against the Idanno Stallions. They put together perhaps their best rugby of the tournament in the second half, and ran in four tries, their best effort thus far, as they showed more attacking spirit. But they were overcome by Idanno's force, organization, and rampant illiteracy.

The final scoreline of 34-24 was a reasonable reflection, but for a while the All Greys looked like pulling off a surprise victory. Ron Diller scored against the run of play after a lightning interception by Chip McDiarmund set him up to run in for a long solo try. He scored a second late in the game after a series of threatening attacking moves, barging past two tacklers to the corner.

Jack Peters, whose inconsistencies bedevilled the side, was a revelation, running in a brace of tries and playing with flair throughout. He also kicked a conversion to bring his tournament points tally to 15. The first try saw him wheel inside the Idanno line and then dart over the line, while the second saw him showing great pace to loop in at the end of a string of quick passing down the line.

The team will have a final training session before the players return for the Elvis Cup.
______

Tournament statistics:
Tries:
Ron Diller (2); Bernard Franks (2); Jack Peters (2); Danny Mensen; Benjamin Brooks; Wolfgang Andrews; Rene Friedman; Sean Reilly
Conversions:
Bill Gerhard (7), Jack Peters (1)
Penalties:
Bill Gerhard (5)
Drop goals:
Jack Peters (1)
Points (leading):
Bill Gerhard (29), Jack Peters (15)

Results for Quarterfinals

Kelssek 26 - 12 Liventia
Idanno 17 - 28 Taeshan
Lovisa 33 - 10 Sorthern Northland
Solenial 29 - 16 Peisandros

Semifinal matchups:
Kelssek - Taeshan @ Stade 1093, Ourseville (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/Oli55/Stade1093Rugby.jpg) (Capacity: 80,000)
Lovisa - Solenial @ Complexe SR Banque Économique (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/Oli55/ComplexeSRBanqueconomiqueRugby-1.jpg) (Capacity: 85,000)

OOC: Ahh, was away for the whole tourny.. Happy with our top 8 finish though!

"Corner Flag... with Ross McKey and John Barry."

The camera began with a close-in shot of John Barry's latest crime against fashion - a tie with flashing Christmas lights.

"Brilliant, eh?" he began. "Just what you need for the festive season. Now, I want to get into this for the kids watching. Look, when the referee is trying to set up a scrum, PAY ATTENTION!! OKAY?!? When he says that, what do they say now?"

Ross McKey gingerly volunteered, "Crouch, touch, pause, engage."

"Oh, they've changed it again, haven't they? You see, that's something I don't like, just arbitarily changing things like that. I mean really, what is the problem... Wait, what was I saying?"

"About the message for the kids."

"Oh yeah. WAIT UNTIL THE REFEREE SAYS "ENGAGE"!!!"

Ross McKey ventured, "Okay, now into the World Cup matches now, Kelssek into the semifinals against Taeshan, a lot of excitement over that..."

"WELL OF COURSE THERE'S EXCITEMENT! Those are our boys out there, and if you're not excited, YOU SHOULD BE SHOT. NO EXCEPTIONS. You get behind our Kelssekian boys or I swear I will hunt you down and kill you!"

Looking nervously towards the timer to see how much time was left, Ross McKey added, "Right... ummm..."

"You look at the way THEY TOOK DOWN LIVENTIA. And you tell me you're not excited. And I want to look at this, too!" A clip of one of Kelssek's tries played on screen. "Piery-Mark Lay-flour""

"Pierre-Marc Lafleur."

"However you want to pronounce those Frenchy names, scoring a try, like a good Kelssekian boy. YOU TELL ME YOU'RE NOT EXCITED?!"

"We're all excited, of course, the semi-final is against Taeshan and you can watch it right here on the KBC."

"Taeshan, eh. Well they're the purple knights, they call themselves, eh? Well they can be THE GAY KNIGHTS FOR ALL I CARE, because mark my words there will be a beating out there. A BEATING!!"

"John Barry on Corner Flag, KBC's special Rugby World Cup coverage," said Ross, who was now out of the shot because he was struggling with the locked studio door.

Semi-Final results:

Kelssek 28 - 7 Taeshan
Lovisa 8 - 24 Solenial

Final (To be scorinated tomorrow morning EST, as I'm leaving for four days starting tomorrow):
Kelssek - Solenial @ Complexe SR Banque Économique (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/Oli55/ComplexeSRBanqueconomiqueRugby-1.jpg) (Capacity: 85,000)

3rd Place Playoff:
Taeshan - Lovisa @ Stade 1093, Ourseville (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/Oli55/Stade1093Rugby.jpg) (Capacity: 80,000)

well it was very piy that we lost with solenial in semi final, but now hope we win with Taeshan and get 3rd place. GO GO LOVIKI

Third Place Playoff result:
Taeshan 34 - 35 Lovisa


And now... the moment everyone of you has been waiting for...

THE FINAL! Result:
Kelssek 32 - 16 Solenial

Congratulations to Kelssek for winning this 11th Rugby World Cup, hosted in Septentrionia!

Lovisan team send congratulation for Kelssek like a champion. :)

and Lovisan team are very happy to coz get a 3rd place so in all lovisan cities will be big celebration.

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/kelchek/media/kbc-icon.gif


Kelssek wins Rugby World Cup
24 DECEMBER 2008 - SEPTENTRIONALIS
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/kelchek/2008-12-24.jpg

Two tries from Josh Lachlan led the way for Kelssek to win the 11th Rugby World Cup with a 32-16 victory over Solenial at the Complexe SR Banque Économique in Septentrionalis...

---
OOC: Thank you. I do think this is the first time I've won anything big :)

^ooc: wow your strip is like the welsh one but blue lol

ok before i get banned for swearing twice at starblaydia in a seperate thread, id like to remind you that the newswire is open and floating around somewhere...go fish for it if you care. if not, let it die, thats cool as well. merry christmas to all except starblaydia.
starblaydia: choke on one, sunshine.