Saint Mark

"Gregor, come back here", insisted Coach Rahl, following the openside flanker as he stormed out of the locker room. "I mean it! I quit!", Gregor shouted. "I've ruined the life of a great player! I don't deserve to play this sport ... or probably any sport ... anymore!" The team looked worried and dejected as they watched the two pass into the hallway and out of sight. "Come on, guys." encouraged Nelson Saint Mark. "We played a great match against a fantastic team. What happened to Tyrell was horrible, but it was an accident. Even the Sharks know that. Coach Sir Rahl will sit down with Gregor and make him see that he shouldn't leave us. Let's gather up for a prayer for Tyrell." The team huddled together, praying fervently to The Light for healing and comfort for the injured player.

This is a joint post of Saint Mark and Giovanniland 4th October 1425 — Saint Mark After the State Dinner on 1st October, King Giovanni VI stayed a few more days in the Markan capital of Sanctus Leo, touring the city and taking part in signing various memoranda of continued collaboration with Saint Mark on different matters. During this time, he arranged the shipment of a Giovannese gelato freezer filled with tropical flavors, his payment on his lost bet to Prince Marcarius. The Prince and the King then stood in one of the palace’s large receiving rooms. Shippers from Giovanniland, assisted by three of the palace footmen, were unloading a very large crate off an electric dolly. As they watched, Clarkson, the prince’s personal secretary, approached carrying a sheet of paper on a small silver tray. “Your Majesty and Your Highness, please forgive my intrusion, but this cable just arrived, and I thought you might like to receive it now.” “Of course, Clarkson, thank you,” replied Prince Marcarius, taking the cable from the tray and reading it. “Ah! Good news, Gio. Marshall Briand has accepted my invitation for a visit with his heir apparent, General Frank. I was thinking about a little touring and a small dinner with some business, military, and church leaders. We will have to have our people work with yours and theirs to select mutually convenient dates.” Giovanni replied, “That’s excellent! My Foreign Ministry has also received a similar cable from Dalimbar, asking if we’d also be interested in a visit. I gave them the go-ahead to accept, and asked Elisa and Tarquino to fly back to Giovanniland and oversee the preparations.” “It might seem odd to some that Saint Mark and Dalimbar seek closer ties, but for all their, shall we say … directness … I do appreciate their strength and clarity. Of course, a good relationship is very important for strategic and religious reasons,” remarked Marcarius. The King added, “Saint Mark, Dalimbar and Giovanniland are all among the largest economies of Esferos, and that speaks to the opportunities that can come from this partnership.” “Definitely. Marshall Briand seems to have chosen a successor that is just as desirous as he is to strengthen ties. I look forward to getting to know him.” Turning towards the large freezer that had just been unboxed, Marcarius smiled widely. “I can’t wait to sample some of your amazing gelato! Would you care to join me?” “Of course! I think that we should start with the guava gelato,” suggested Giovanni. The two shared a delicious afternoon of tasting and talk.

In the Saint Mark Locker Room: Coach Sir Evan Rahl is standing at a whiteboard in front of his seated team. "In our previous clash, the Sharks edged us 27–21. The biggest problem? Breakdown speed. Adaikes’ back row—Blossom Crespo and Keira Hull in particular—slowed our service, leaving us scrambling and unable to launch the backline effectively. When Nelson doesn’t get clean ball, we’re sunk. Baxtor, Bruno, and Marcarius, you need to prioritize ruck clearance above all else." He turned to Nelson. "Your boot is one of our best weapons. By pinning Adaikes deep and forcing their aging veterans to turn, you can sap their legs and shift pressure back onto the Sharks. Look for angled grubbers behind Hull and Crespo to exploit their slower recovery pace." Turning back to the group ... "Michael, you must fire crisp, rapid passes to Nelson. If you hesitate, Hull and Hampton will swarm the ruck. If the ball is fast, Nelson has the chance to open channels wide for Blitzen and Dancer on the wings. The Sharks’ midfield—Bissette and Hampton—are brilliant defensively but both in their 30s. Nelson’s sharp inside passes to Arthur and Colin could exploit tired legs and create mismatches late in each half. In a tight knockout contest, every point matters. Nelson’s drop goal against Giovanniland was a feat of nerve. Nelson, we need you to line up opportunistic shots from 30–35 meters whenever the Sharks’ defense slows our attack. Of course, Adaikes is an excellent team and is not without answers. Koby Rose’s game intelligence at wing and Tyrell Darwin’s control of the lineout could starve us of possession. If Nelson is forced to defend more than he directs, the balance shifts firmly to the Sharks. You all know what’s at stake: a place in the Semi Finals, revenge for our earlier loss, and a chance to etch ourselves into Principality rugby lore. The heartbeat of this effort will be Nelson's ability to dictate tempo, carve open defenses, and punish every Shark misstep. Nelson doesn’t need to play a perfect game. He just needs to play a smart one.”

✦ Player Spotlight ✦ Nelson Saint Mark: The Fly-Half Who Lit the Way By Jessica Confabula, Senior Sports Correspondent When the final whistle blew at 22–17, there was no doubt who had orchestrated the Lions’ victory: Nelson Saint Mark. The Principality’s fly-half delivered a performance that blended tactical nous, calm under pressure, and flashes of brilliance that reminded everyone why he wears the No. 10 jersey. Kicking Clinic Nelson’s boot dictated the rhythm of the match. He struck four penalty goals cleanly through the uprights, punishing Giovanniland for their ill-discipline at the breakdown. His 67th-minute drop goal was a turning point—stretched the lead from two points to five and forced Giovanniland to chase the game. Playmaking Vision What separates a good fly-half from a great one is vision. Nelson’s ability to see space before others do was on full display. In the 55th minute, spotting Giovanniland’s defensive line drifting inward, he lofted a perfect looping pass wide to Christopher Dancer, who raced in for the Lions’ crucial try. Composure Under Fire Under relentless pressure from Giovanniland’s back row, Nelson never flinched. Twice he absorbed crunching tackles, yet managed to offload and keep the play alive. His partnership with scrum-half Michael Hawk looked sharper than ever, producing quicker ball and smoother transitions from rucks. Stat Line vs. Giovanniland Points Scored: 17 (4 penalties, 1 drop goal, 1 conversion) Assists: 1 (Dancer’s try) Tackles Made: 6 (including a key cover tackle on Flamma-Fortunato) Kicking Accuracy: 83% Looking Ahead Nelson now faces perhaps the sternest test of his career: the United Adaikes Sharks in the Quarter Finals. In the pool stage defeat, he admitted to being outpaced at the breakdown. This time, his task is clear—accelerate distribution, punish mistakes, and inspire belief. If he plays as he did against Giovanniland, Saint Mark’s Lions may yet turn the roar into a thunder.

Prince Marcarius, seated behind a polished mahogany desk covered with neat piles of correspondence and bulletins, looks up from the one he has been reading and addresses his Personal Secretary, Clarkson. "I see the line of succession has been set in Dalimbari. I would like to nurture our developing relationship there. Under Marshall Briand, we have seen very useful improvements in the trade situation, not to mention the advances our missionaries have made in the east. The dossier on General Frank looks favorable. He is a close friend of the Marshall and seems likely to continue his policies. Please alert the Foreign Office that they should begin inquiries with Dalimbari to see if a visit might be arranged. Perhaps a private tour of the Royal Maritime Museum of Antiquities with the Marshall and General Frank ... they admire our imperial history. This could be followed by a dinner that would also include those from business, military, and church positions ... nothing elaborate ... more of an opportunity to get to know everyone." Clarkson takes a few notes. "Yes, Sir. I'll see that this is put into motion immediately."

Markan Moment “We Showed Our Pride”: Coach Sir Evan Rahl Reflects on Saint Mark’s Win Over Giovanniland By Jessica Confabula, Senior Sports Correspondent Jessica Confabula (JC): Sir Evan, congratulations on the 22–17 win against Giovanniland. How are you feeling about the performance? Sir Evan Rahl (SER): Thank you, Jessica. I feel proud of the boys. Giovanniland are a quality side with a lot of continuity in their roster, and they came at us with real intent. Their set piece work—especially Lodagi and Liogalla in the front row—tested us throughout. But our lads stood up, played with heart, and found the moments we needed to get over the line. JC: It was a hard-fought game that seemed to swing back and forth. Where, in your view, was the match won? SER: Two areas stand out: composure and execution in key phases. In the last quarter, when the pressure was highest, we showed patience. Nelson [Saint Mark] managed the game superbly—his kicks to touch, his vision to spread wide, and his calmness under fire made the difference. We didn’t try to force it; we waited for Giovanniland to blink first. JC: Let’s talk about Nelson. He seemed to take the match by the scruff of the neck, especially in the second half. SER: Nelson was magnificent. Fly-halves are judged by decision-making under pressure, and he passed the test. His drop goal in the 67th minute—when we were only two points ahead—was a dagger. It gave us breathing room and shifted momentum. And that looping pass to Christopher Dancer for the try down the right wing was pure class. Nelson was reading Giovanniland’s backline like an open book. JC: Some commentators felt Giovanniland’s captain, Marko Telliano Ulpio, was dangerous every time he touched the ball. How did you contain him? SER: Ulpio is an exceptional winger, and he nearly broke us on a couple of occasions. But credit to Blaze Emberfell at fullback and Gregor Napoli on the flank—they tracked him tirelessly. Blaze’s cover tackle in the 72nd minute was probably a match-saver. If Ulpio scores there, we’re having a very different conversation tonight. JC: Let’s pivot to what’s next: the Quarter Final against United Adaikes. They beat you 27–21 earlier in this tournament. How do you prepare for the Sharks? SER: With respect and steel. They’re ranked third in the world for a reason. Their veterans—Tyrell Darwin, Hernan Jacobson, and Koby Rose—are some of the most battle-hardened players in rugby. We learned a hard lesson in the pool stage: their back row, Crespo and Hull in particular, dominated the breakdown. If we don’t fix our speed at the ruck, we’ll be punished again. JC: What adjustments are you planning compared to the first meeting? SER: We need faster ball. That means Hawk at scrum-half must link with Nelson more quickly, and our forwards have to clean out more ruthlessly. Baxtor and Bruno Goldwash have been improving every match; if they can anchor the scrums against Arias and Clement, we’ll have a platform. And discipline—Adaikes thrive off penalties. We cannot give them cheap points. JC: The Sharks are calling this tournament a “last dance” for several of their stars. Does that add emotional weight to the clash? SER: Certainly. Veterans like Rose and Darwin will throw everything into it—it could be their final international run. That makes them dangerous, but also predictable in some ways. We respect the legacy they’ve built, but our focus is writing our own chapter. JC: Finally, what’s your message to the fans of Saint Mark as the Lions march into the Quarter Finals? SER: Believe in this team. Tonight showed the pride and resilience of the Lions. Giovanniland pushed us to the brink, but we stood firm. Against Adaikes, we’ll need every ounce of support, every voice cheering us on. The lads know what’s at stake, and I promise we’ll give everything for the Principality. JC: Sir Evan, thank you. Congratulations again on the victory, and good luck against the Sharks. SER: Thank you, Jessica. The Lions are roaring.

Prince Marcarius and friends sit down to watch the rugby

This is a joint post by Giovanniland and Saint Mark. 1st October 1425 — The State Dinner at the Hall of Saint Leo King Giovanni VI of Giovanniland gazed at the magnificent bronze doors of the Hall of Saint Leo, recalling the itinerary that he had already followed in this visit to Saint Mark, and the previous times he had set foot there. The doors opened to the sound of a fanfare, revealing the sight of candles glowing in massive crystal chandeliers, while frescoes of saints and lions looked down, solemn and eternal. Liveried footmen in red and gold waited in perfect stillness. Prince Marcarius of Saint Mark then entered, radiant in his white ceremonial uniform, golden sash of the Halohin House drawn across his chest. Beside him, King Giovanni stepped forward in purple royal clothing. “Your Majesty, welcome once more,” said Marcarius, his voice carrying in the great hall. “Your Serene Highness,” replied Giovanni with a smile, “your palace is magnificent, and your welcome most generous.” Much of the glitterati from both nations followed them into the vast hall. Among the Markans attending were Lady Arlene, Sir Aston, Lady Phyllis, Lord Admiral Bellarmie, Archbishop Georgio Amica, Dame Arthea Bradmoor, and Karl Fridor, star of the opera they had attended two nights before. As for Giovanniland, there were both politicians and nobles present. Prince Augusto, the heir apparent, followed his father, as did Queen Traiana, Princess Abrelia and others in the royal family. Afterwards, government members such as Elisa Anario-Silva (Prime Minister), Tarquino Albio-Trinelli (Minister of Foreign Affairs) and Flavio Lavandino (Minister of Trade) arrived. A long mahogany table, gleaming like still water, stood in the hall, set with gold service and crystal goblets. When all were seated, the footmen began to serve the ten-course traditional Markan feast: Oysters Saint Mark with lemon and sea herbs. Consommé Royal with truffle shavings. Turbot in Champagne Sauce. Filets de Bœuf à la Saint Leo. Roast Pheasant with Chestnut Purée. Sorbet of Starfruit and Lavender. Saddle of Lamb with Mint Jus. Salade Markan with pomegranate and hazelnuts. Cheese Course with figs and honey. Dessert Symphony of almond torte, spun-sugar lions, and passionfruit soufflé. The guests took part in conversation and enjoyed the dinner as the courses were served. “It seems only yesterday,” Giovanni remarked during the consommé, “that we were at dinner in Giovannia. This hall is no less grand than the Palatio Smaraldo.” “I agree,” commented Queen Traiana. “And these oysters are perfect!” Marcarius smiled. “I am glad you both think so. Spending time with you and your family this week has been such a joy. I particularly enjoyed the cocktail cruise aboard the Sea Lion. How did you find our harbor at sunset?” “Magnificent,” said Elisa, recalling it. “I appreciated the bells of Saint Elara echoing over the beautiful waters.” Lady Arlene added, “And the cocktails were most inventive! What was it called, the ‘Lion’s Sunrise’? Mango, pomegranate, and a touch of rum?” Prince Augusto laughed. “Yes, I believe I had three of them.” Then came mention of the opera night, where Karl Fridor’s performance of Su Helga Sigling Anor had left the hall breathless. Dame Arthea Bradmoor, a major patron of the opera, praised him warmly; Archbishop Georgio mused that his sister in Porto Violeto had written jealously about the event. The courses continued arriving, and those from Giovanniland attending especially appreciated the sorbet of starfruit and lavender. Soon after, the talk turned to rugby. Giovanni’s eyes lit up. “This state dinner could not be more timely: the group stage of the 6th Rugby World Cup has just ended, and it seems that our nations will meet in the Round of 16.” “Indeed!”, Marcarius chuckled, “Our boys are ready. Nelson Saint Mark will marshal the backs at fly-half. Baxtor and Bruno Goldwash will hold the front line. And Blaze Emberfell, of course, is as quick as lightning.” Giovanni replied in kind, proudly: “Likewise, our captain Marko Ulpio will lead us from the left wing, and other players like Demetro Ferenni and Samanta Alba will no doubt continue being instrumental for the Esquadra Nationale’s performance. They were the top scorers in our group stage matches and I hope to see more of their skills!” Minister Tarquino interjected, “It would be great if Giovanniland equals its achievement of arriving into the quarterfinals in the previous World Cup, but I’ll be also happy for Saint Mark if your team wins. May the winner be ready to meet United Adaikes or Arifiyyah.” Lord Admiral Bellarmie raised a glass. “May it be a contest worthy of both our nations.” Afterwards, laughter broke out when Lady Phyllis confessed she had secretly wagered on the Markan Lions while her husband backed Giovanniland. Marcarius then leaned toward Giovanni while the desserts arrived at the table. “Tomorrow, one team wins and one loses, but our friendship will never change.” Giovanni raised his glass. “To our friendship!” All glasses rose, and the chandeliers caught the crystal sparkle, as though the saints and lions in fresco above were joining in the toast. Later, when the last of the guests had departed, Prince Marcarius led King Giovanni into his private study. The room was paneled in dark walnut, lined with shelves of leather-bound tomes, and a painting of the first Sea Lion yacht cutting across azure seas hung above the mantel. The Prince poured two glasses of amber brandy. “Now, Gio,” he said with a grin, “shall we speak frankly of tomorrow? Two friends, but rivals for eighty minutes.” Giovanni chuckled. “Let’s make it interesting. How about a wager?” Marcarius raised a brow. “Name your stakes.” “If the Esquadra Nationale wins,” Giovanni said, “you must send me a cask of your famous Saint Elara brandy. The kind you only serve at coronations.” Marcarius laughed heartily. “You drive a hard bargain. And if the Lions prevail, you must send me one of those Giovannese gelato freezers filled with tropical flavors. Passionfruit, guava, tamarind, and so on.” Giovanni stroked his beard in mock seriousness. “You mean to reduce me to a mere ice merchant?” “Not at all,” remarked Marcarius. “To elevate you to the status of benefactor of every sweet tooth in Saint Mark.” Both men burst into laughter, clinking glasses. “Very well, it’s settled,” Giovanni declared. “Brandy against gelato. May the better team win.” The roaring fire cast warm light across the pair of deep armchairs they were seated on, and both monarchs continued to talk late into the night. “It’s great to meet a good friend once more”, King Giovanni thought, and he vowed to return after this visit.

Nelson Saint Mark, Lion's Fly Half Markan Moment By Jessica Confabula, Senior Sports Correspondent “We’ll Rise Again”: Nelson Saint Mark Reflects on Loss to United Adaikes It was a cool evening in Group C play, but the action on the pitch between the Saint Mark Lions and United Adaikes was anything but chilly. The Lions fought hard but ultimately fell short, losing 27–21 in a bruising contest that leaves them with six points to Adaikes’ ten. I caught up with Nelson Saint Mark, the Lions’ fly-half, in the tunnel after the match. Despite the sting of defeat, he was composed, gracious, and already looking ahead. Jessica Confabula: Nelson, a tough result tonight. How are you feeling in this moment? Nelson Saint Mark: Disappointed, of course. We came here believing we could take the points, and for long stretches, we showed flashes of what makes us dangerous. But international rugby is about fine margins, and Adaikes punished our lapses. Credit to them. JC: The scoreboard suggests it was close, but Adaikes seemed to dominate the breakdowns. Was that where it slipped away? NSM: Absolutely. Their back row—Crespo, Hull, Hampton—they were relentless. Our forwards worked hard, especially Baxtor and Bruno [Goldwash] in the scrums, and Marcarius [Hightower] put in a shift defensively, but we didn’t recycle quickly enough. When you’re slow at the ruck, you’re always playing catch-up. JC: You had some shining moments yourself, particularly that cross-kick to Celerio Blitzen in the 63rd minute. Do you take personal positives from tonight? NSM: Rugby’s never about one player. I’m glad that one came off—Celerio’s pace deserves service—but I’m more focused on the chances we didn’t convert. A fly-half lives and dies by decision-making, and I’ll be replaying a few choices in my head tonight. JC: Sir Evan Rahl looked visibly frustrated on the touchline. What was his message to the squad afterwards? NSM: Keep our heads. The pool’s not lost yet. He reminded us that great teams aren’t measured only by their wins but by how they respond to losses. We’ve got to respond now. JC: On a personal note, fans have noticed you carrying crystals in your kit bag. Do you still lean on those rituals before a match? NSM: (laughs) Yes, guilty as charged. I keep an amethyst for calm and a citrine for energy. Some lads tease me, but for me it’s about focus and balance. Rugby is brutal on the body and the mind—any little edge helps. JC: And your diet—still avoiding red meat? NSM: Completely. Lots of greens, grains, and fish. Some say you can’t play international rugby without steaks, but I like proving them wrong. JC: Last question, and forgive me for going off-pitch—rumors have been swirling about you and Carmella Hightower. Anything you’d like to share with readers? NSM: (smiles) Carmella’s a wonderful person, and yes, we’ve been spending time together. Right now, though, my priority is rugby. The Lions first, always. JC: Nelson, thank you. Hard luck tonight, but the nation is behind you. NSM: Thank you, Jessica. We’ll rise again. The Lions next face a must-win encounter, and if Nelson Saint Mark’s calm resolve is any indication, the story of Group C is far from over.

SAINT MARK LIONS VS. LARXIAN SEA LIONS Reported by: Sir Emmitt Longwind Venue: Istadio Raquivas – Packed House, Overcast Afternoon FINAL SCORE: Saint Mark Lions 10 – 9 Larxian Sea Lions In a bruising and emotionally charged international clash, the Saint Mark Lions edged out the Larxian Sea Lions 10–9 in a match defined by grit, tackles, and nerves of steel. The outcome came down to a single penalty in the closing minutes—converted by none other than the fly-half, Nelson Saint Mark. First Half: Defense Reigns Supreme From the first whistle, both sides were determined to make a statement at the breakdown. The forward packs clashed with thunderous impact, with Baxtor Goldwash and Bruno Goldwash anchoring the Lions’ front row against Larxia’s powerful trio of João “Joca” Silva, Miguel Santos, and Pedro “Pedrão” Reis. The Sea Lions opened the scoring with a well-placed penalty kick from fly-half Diogo “Didi” Mendes after Saint Mark were penalized for hands in the ruck. Saint Mark responded minutes later through the explosive running of inside center Arthur Brideman, who broke two tackles to set up a ruck just five meters out. After several pick-and-go phases, number 8 Paul Reston crashed over the try line for the Lions’ only five-pointer of the day. Nelson Saint Mark converted with ease, making it 7–3 at the half. Second Half: Tactical Kicking and Unrelenting Pressure The Sea Lions came out of the tunnel with renewed fire. Led by blindside flanker and captain Rafael “Rafa” Lima, they pressured the Lions into their own half. Two more penalty goals from Mendes brought the score to 9–7 with fifteen minutes remaining. Fullback Blaze Emberfell and scrum-half Michael Hawk combined well to relieve pressure through deep kicks and quick sniping runs, while Saint Mark’s back row—Marcarius Hightower and Gregor Napoli—put in a massive defensive shift, slowing Larxia’s tempo at every turn. With five minutes left, Larxian open-side flanker Bruno Carvalho was penalized for not rolling away after a tackle—setting up a difficult 42-meter penalty attempt for Nelson Saint Mark. With ice in his veins, the fly-half struck the ball cleanly, sending it sailing between the posts and bringing the crowd to its feet. Final Moments: Holding the Line The final sequence saw Larxia camped inside the Lions' 22-meter line. Scrum-half Guilherme Ferreira darted left and right, probing for gaps, but was met by solid tackles from Colin Rahl and John Evermore. With seconds remaining, Christopher Dancer’s crucial intercept off a looping pass to Nuno “Ninja” Ramos sealed the deal. Player of the Match: Nelson Saint Mark (Fly-Half, Saint Mark Lions) Clutch under pressure, tactically sound, and the difference-maker with the boot—Nelson delivered when it mattered most. Closing Thoughts Coach Sir Evan Rahl praised the Lions’ “spirit and structure,” while Larxian manager Ricardo Costa lamented the missed chances but vowed the Sea Lions “will come back stronger.” In a match where every tackle, kick, and decision mattered, it was the cool head and calm boot of Nelson Saint Mark that gave the Lions the edge. Saint Mark Lions win it—barely, but brilliantly.

Style -1.00 Number Name Position 1 Baxtor Goldwash Loose-head Prop 2 Welhelo Saylor Hooker 3 Bruno Goldwash Tight-head Prop 4 Donovan Elkhart Lock/2nd Row 5 John Evermore Lock/2nd Row 6 Marcarius Hightower Blind-side Flanker 7 Gregor Napoli Open-side Flanker 8 Paul Reston Number 8 9 Michael Hawk Scrum Half 10 Nelson Saint Mark Fly Half 11 Celerio Blitzen Left Wing 12 Arthur Brideman Inside Center 13 Colin Rahl Outside Center 14 Christopher Dancer Right Wing 15 Blaze Emberfell Fullback 16 Lionel Backstory Reserve Hooker 17 Grayson Tanker Reserve Loose-head Prop 18 Mitchell Oxbow Reserve Tight-head Prop 19 Howard August Reserve Lock 20 Mark Rushmore Reserve Outside Center 21 Simon Speaker Reserve Scrum Half 22 Specter Ghast Reserve Inside Center 23 Thomas Harbough Reserve Outside Center Coach - Sir Evan Rahl RP permissions: If my opponent RPs first, they may... Choose my try scorers: Y Choose my kicker: Y RP injuries: N Godmod scoring events: Y Godmod injuries: N Godmod other events: Y

Saint Mark would be honored to accept this invitation to participate.

Nation name: The Holy Principality of Saint Mark Nation trigram: SMK Players: 1. Blaze Fulgur 2. Lady Emily Amas 3. Simon Schuchtern

The Holy Principality of Saint Mark will give it a go.

"Your Serene Highness!" The team and others present in the locker room bowed, surprised and delighted that Prince Marcarius had made an unannounced visit to encourage The Lions. "Lions, you are an excellent team. You have defeated this opponent before and you can do it again!" enthused the Prince. "Trust in your abilities, your coach, and your hard work. I will be cheering you on from my box. You will win!" The Prince shook hands and briefly chatted with each player and Coach Rahl, and then hurried to his seat to watch this important match.