Fhaengshia

Sharks dethrone the reigning champs, onward to the semi-finals!
Hertfordshire and Jammbo was the first to score with a drop goal just 7 minutes into the game. But their expectations did not go their way as the United Adaikes National Rugby Team stepped up their defense the whole game. United Adaikes scored in the 17th minute with a try and a successful conversion, and another try in the far-left goal line in the 37th minute which caused them not to get that conversion before the first half ended.
When the second half started, a scoring exchange happened between the two teams. H & J blitzed with tries in the 52nd and 59th minutes to take the lead again, 13-12, even without getting the conversion for the 2 tries. The Sharks tried to get back by scoring a drop goal in the 60th minute to take the lead again, 13-15. A drop goal from the defending champs in the 63rd minute nearly spelled doom for the Polarii side, but the Sharks responded with a surprising try no one expected 6 minutes later, getting a successful conversation to regain the lead. A couple of missed drop goals from H & J had the Adaikesian fans roared and cheered harder. Numerous opportunities were nearly exploited by H & J, but that's just it for them as the United Adaikes just couldn't believe that they've bested the ones who took the trophy home in the previous World Cup!
In the post-match press conference, coach Gallardo shared, "We were looking at their tapes, even from the games in the previous tournament. There were even small chatter that even their side accept it that they are bad in conversions. We were putting it as a third (and nearly disregarded) reminder for the team, but when we saw it with our eyes what happened in the second half, we made sure that the next tries we could muster against them should also have successful conversions. We just did one, but we'll take it." Sharks captain Miguel Gonzales added, "There was a pattern in their games that they are scoring much in the start of the second half, so the mindset going in to the game is that whenever they get a try, we respond with our own. But, if we can find a small loophole against their defense, let's take it and see what we can get from there. It showed there in our first half."
On taking on Dalimbar in the semis, and the press bringing out if there was a topic last night in their meeting that they might meet, what would they say to each other, coach Gallardo replied, "Well, they promised to crush us if we will meet in the semis. (laughs) I said, let's talk about it when we get there. Well, here we are. However, we came prepared playing for this games. Games everyday meant that we can't practice, so we'll just rest our tired bodies and legs after the games. As long as we can view the tapes of our opponents in the next game, analyze and strategize before we get to bed, putting into our minds what we need to do the whole day, then hopefully we can get the result we wanted. Personally, we've got as far as we haven't imagined, and as three teams are from Polaris, we'll have no problems with a Polarii champion. But of course, in this stage, we're hungry to get to the finals and hopefully bring the trophy home."
On an interesting note, all the other top teams in the group stage were eliminated by their opponents. Aside from Dalimbar, all the semi-finalists have just debuted in the international rugby union scene and has been upsetting their opponents. One thing's for sure, a new champion will be crowned.
HT: Hertfordshire and Jammbo 3-12 United Adaikes
FT: Hertfordshire and Jammbo 16-22 United Adaikes
Reporter: Ms. Raquel Lamanilao

Giovannilandian Rugby Report - The Not So Grand Finale
Giovanniland 10-6 Dalimbar
Tries: Rivano Markellana-Tarrutio (7'), Eugenio Akerrone (23')
First Half: It was now or never. Giovanniland had to manage a hard feat of scoring at least 19 more points than Dalimbar. The first thirty minutes proved to be good for our team: two tries were scored, giving Giovannilandian sports fans some hope. Near the end of the first half the Dalimbari did score 3 points from a penalty, but there was still a chance to win a Quarterfinals spot.
Second Half: In the second half, the Dalimbari changed their strategy to an even more defensive one; both to save efforts for the upcoming Quarterfinals game and to prevent our team from scoring. Unfortunately, this proved to be effective as no more points were scored by Giovanniland. Instead, the Dalimbari got three more points from another penalty in the final minutes.
Post-Match: Giovanniland had been eliminated from the tournament, and most players came back home. Nevertheless, the people are cheering for our team. They fought hard—and they even managed a second win against Dalimbar, albeit being unable to prevent the Dalimbari from advancing.

If only it happened sooner.
Hertfordshire and Jammbo came in to day 5 with 61.04. Fujai came in with 57.80. Their opponents were Big Bad Badger (48.95) and Fhaengshia (44.67). H&J and Fujai have been the top two teams of the rankings since they clinched the spot to the finals of the First TWP Rugby Cup. Plus, they both had home field advantage.
Badger won 15-13. Fhaengshia won 7-0.
If this had happened sooner, the perception of these two teams may have been different. The losses themselves didn't particularly matter as both rugby powers were already booked into the Quarterfinals.
But boy it hurt their rankings. -5.02 for H&J, -5.23 for Fujai.
Away (Y/A)     Home (Z/B) Nieubasria (44.41) 13 20 Cambria (48.02+3) Libterraria (54.08) 06 03 Kurabis (53.73+3) Nark (42.42) 07 15 Dilber (50.25+3) Bobki (46.46) 13 10 Mediobogdum (52.60+3) Dalimbar (52.37) 06 10 Giovanniland (52.39+3) Recuecn (48.98) 13 10 Teralyon (47.25+3) Big Bad Badger (48.95) 15 13 Hertfordshire and Jammbo (61.04+3) United Adaikes (53.43) 06 07 Saint Mark (51.32+3) Fhaengshia (44.67) 07 00 Fujai (57.80+3) Day 5 Rankings:
Libterraria - 56.61 Hertfordshire and Jammbo - 56.02 Big Bad Badger - 53.97 Zoran - 53.93 Giovanniland - 53.79 Saint Mark - 53.14 Taledo - 52.80 Min-Su - 52.70 Fujai - 52.57 United Adaikes - 51.61 Recuecn - 51.23 Kurabis - 51.20 Dalimbar - 50.97 Bobki - 50.29 Dilber - 50.08 Fhaengshia - 49.90 Sensorland - 49.74 Bhang Bhang Duc - 49.68 Larxia - 49.68 Mediobogdum - 48.77 Cambria - 48.70 Westwind - 47.58 Darkesia - 45.41 Teralyon - 45.00 Croblade - 44.92 Nieubasria - 43.73 OMI - 43.39 Nark - 42.59 Nations in bold represent those still in the tournament.

DU-UKH, UUK – Keiserholde, Fujai – Hej folks, this is Berit here coming to you from DU-UKH, Den Blå Duken, UiKeiserholde's officially unofficial student radio. The group stage of the 2nd Rugby World Cup has concluded and Fujai is on top of Group D! There's a lot to discuss so let's get right into today's Idrottsminutt!
The Landslag finished out the group stage with 2 wins against Saint Mark and Larxia, a draw against United Adaikes, and now their first and hopefully only loss of the cup against Fhaengshia. The North Andolian side came roaring onto the pitch, knocking the Landslag off their rhythm as they struggled to put up a solid defense and capturing seven points before the end of the first half. In the second half, the Landslag attempted a hybrid offense/defense strategy to keep the Fhaengshians from scoring further. While they failed in the offense part of it, they succeeded in keeping their opponents from scoring further.
As it turns out, that little bit of extra defense was what earned the Landslag the top spot in our group! Had the Adaikesians won their match against Saint Mark, we'd've been in second, but with their loss and ours, we eked out the first place position by a single point differential! A single one!! It's all the better that we did manage that, because otherwise we might've had to go up against reigning champs Hertfordia already, a fate Adaikes now faces. Fans across Fujai are, of course, rooting for the fellow Polarii side now that we're not competing, as no one wants the Hertfordians to win yet another cup. It's high time the high north was represented on top of the podium, some might say.
Now the other story we're following is that of the invaders, Dalimbar. They're gunning for the championship as well after getting shut out last time by Hertfordia. In an absolutely wild turn of events, especially given the increased tensions in Occupied Lannreid the last months, some Fujar are actually rooting for the Dalimbari. I know of at least one friendship that ended after someone said they were rooting for Dalimbar, that shit's no joke up here, y'know. At the least, a Fujai v. Dalimbar championship match would be one for the record books, and who knows, maybe that match would do some diplomacy work?
On that note, that's all we've got for today's Idrottsminutt! I know the rugby fans here at Den Blå Duken are thrilled that the Landslag did so well in the group stage, and we can't wait to see what else they can pull off! This is Berit signing off, see you tomorrow!

Day 5 Results
Group A Nieubasria 13–20 Tara & Cambray Libterraria 6–3 Kurabis Nark 7–15 Dilber Group A Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Libterraria 5 5 0 0 73 46 +27 15 2 Kurabis 5 3 1 1 75 52 +23 10 3 Dilber 5 3 0 2 86 58 +28 9 4 Tara & Cambray 5 2 0 3 85 91 −6 6 5 Nieubasria 5 1 0 4 89 124 −35 3 6 Nark 5 0 1 4 61 98 −37 1 Group B Bobki 13–10 Mediobogdum Dalimbar 6–10 Giovanniland Group B Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Min-Su 4 2 1 1 52 46 +6 7 2 Dalimbar 4 2 0 2 67 39 +28 6 3 Giovanniland 4 2 0 2 34 34 0 6 4 Bobki 4 2 0 2 34 69 −35 6 5 Mediobogdum 4 1 1 2 44 43 +1 4 Group C Reçueçn 20–0 Teralyon Big Bad Badger 15–13 Hertfordshire and Jammbo Group C Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Hertfordshire and Jammbo 4 3 0 1 69 32 +37 9 2 Zoran 4 3 0 1 52 34 +18 9 3 Big Bad Badger 4 2 1 1 47 38 +9 7 4 Reçueçn 4 1 1 2 38 40 −2 4 5 Teralyon 4 0 0 4 10 72 −62 0 Group D United Adaikes 6–7 Saint Mark Fhaengshia 7–0 Fujai Group D Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Fujai 4 2 1 1 29 19 +10 7 2 United Adaikes 4 2 1 1 44 35 +9 7 3 Saint Mark 4 2 1 1 29 24 +5 7 4 Larxia 4 1 1 2 28 40 −12 4 5 Fhaengshia 4 1 0 3 42 54 −12 3 Quarterfinal Draw
Libterraria vs Dalimbar
Min-Su vs Kurabis
Hertfordshire and Jammbo vs United Adaikes
Fujai vs Zoran
 

If Day 2 was the Day of the Home Advantage, Day 4 seemed to be a mild case of Tie-Fever. Not one game, not two games, but three games saw ties. The "underdogs" of the three matches, Mediobogdum, United Adaikes, and Saint Mark saw slight points gains as a result. It should be noted that to be determined to be the "underdog" they will have the lower of the two pre-match ranks which factors in home-field advantage. I'll give you an example in the form of the Saint Mark vs Larxia match:
Both sides were relatively similar walking into the match, with Saint Mark at a 50.86 and Larxia 50.14. However, Larxia, by virtue of being the "home" side, get a pre-match rank of +3, meaning they were determined to be sitting at 53.14. Thus, although technically Saint Mark was higher on a side-by-side basis to Larxia, the home advantage to Larxia means that Saint Mark was the "underdog" of the match. And it showed with their 0-0 scores.
Bigger moves happened for Cambria, who halted their downward slide in their victory against Nark, along with Giovanniland winning over Bobki. Cambria gained 2.47 points while Gio gained 2.35. Hertfordshire and Jammbo keeps on dominating the top ranks, but because they are of such high ranking compared to everyone else, they don't gain significantly more points. Case in point, today's win over Recuecn only netted H&J a 0.32 rank point gain.
Away (Y/A)     Home (Z/B) Cambria (45.55) 21 13 Nark (44.89+3) Dilber (51.31) 11 13 Libterraria (53.02+3) Kurabis (52.50) 32 20 Nieubasria (45.64+3) Giovanniland (50.04) 12 00 Bobki (48.81+3) Mediobogdum (51.56) 06 06 Min-Su (53.74+3) Hertfordshire and Jammbo (60.72) 17 03 Recuecn (49.30+3) Teralyon (47.36) 10 20 Zoran (53.82+3) Fujai (58.26) 03 03 United Adaikes (52.97+3) Saint Mark (50.86) 00 00 Larxia (50.14+3) Day 4 Rankings:
Hertfordshire and Jammbo - 61.04 Fujai - 57.80 Libterraria - 54.08 Zoran - 53.93 Kurabis - 53.73 United Adaikes - 53.43 Taledo - 52.80 Min-Su - 52.70 Mediobogdum - 52.60 Giovanniland - 52.39 Dalimbar - 52.37 Saint Mark - 51.32 Dilber - 50.25 Sensorland - 49.74 Bhang Bhang Duc - 49.68 Larxia - 49.68 Recuecn - 48.98 Big Bad Badger - 48.95 Cambria - 48.02 Westwind - 47.58 Teralyon - 47.25 Bobki - 46.46 Darkesia - 45.41 Croblade - 44.92 Fhaengshia - 44.67 Nieubasria - 44.41 OMI - 43.39 Nark - 42.42

Giovannilandian Rugby Report - 2nd Match
Minsu 12-6 Giovanniland
Drop Goals: Tommaso Kandido Silva (29'), Lukio Katullo-Vittori (32')
First Half: It was not even 10 minutes past the clock and the Minsun had scored a try. Despite that, the valiant Giovannilandians did not give up, as a win would get them back up in a more comfortable position in Group 2. Nearing the end of the first half, two of our players successfully scored one drop goal each, giving Giovanniland a half-time lead!
Second Half: The first thirty minutes of the second half were quite uneventful, with the Giovannilandian defense stopping the Minsun players, but likewise, the Giovannilandian attack also not scoring any further points. Still, our team had the lead of one point. Unfortunately, another try was scored by Min-Su followed by a conversion. This gave the Minsun a lead of 12-6, which remained unaltered for the last few minutes. It was another loss to the Giovannilandian team at the hands of another nation in their first Rugby World Cup tournament.
Post-Match: Giovanniland is in dire need of points and will play against the fellow Auran nation of Bobki in the 4th matchday. Our team will need to win the matches against both Bobki and Dalimbar if they want to advance to the quarterfinals, and also hope that the Dalimbari and the Minsun do not score too much in their next games.

Match Report - Dalimbar (49.42) vs. Bobki (51.40)
Now that's Dalimbari-style rugby. Take no prisoners. Leave no opportunity for the opponent to move or have any chance at scoring. Grind down the opponent and break their spirits. Just like on the icy battlefields the Dalimbari fought not too long ago.
Was 30-0 necessary? Yes. After the shocking loss to Min-Su yesterday, the Dalimbari squad knew they had to completely dominate the field lest they find themselves working in the Frontier Mining Project after the tournament. Landmines just don't put themselves in the ground, you know.
Marshal Markus Briand made a special point of phoning Manager Colonel Nursan and the rest of the squad before the match, letting them know he still supported their efforts against the enemy, that Min-Su was officially on the list of barbaric enemies that the nation would deal with later. But the clear message sent to the team is that a loss to Bobki would be unacceptable. The boys in blue clearly got the message, especially when they couldn't locate Special Police Major Trolio the morning of the match.
Right out of the gate play was pushed into the Bobki half of the field and... stayed there. The first half saw three tries and two successful conversions, for 19 points. The second half saw a try and two penalties, for 30. Jubilation was running amongst the approved Dalimbari audience, who must have been at times slipping into the culture of Dilber compared to their more traditional Dalimbari upbringing. 
 
 

"What in Thram's Hall was that! We couldn't score one point against Larxia!?! Everyone scores against Larxia! Our defense was awesome, but we can't be all defense! We had plenty of opportunities, but didn't take advantage of a single one of them!"
The rest of the team was just as upset as hot-tempered Gregor, but much better at maintaining the typical Markan equanimity.
Sir Evan raised his hand and the mumbling replies quieted.
"Gentlemen, we all knew this was going to be an uphill battle. Rugby is a new sport to Saint Mark. We've come a long way in a year. While yes, I was disappointed in our offense today and I know we can do much better, we are indeed making a good show of it. I have received word from the palace that His Serene Highness will be in attendance at our next game. It is also our last chance to make it to the quarter finals. The game isn't until later in the day, so we have plenty of time to review plays over and over again and still be well-rested. Let's get to it."
With sighs and groans, the team surrounded to coach and prepared for a long evening. 

Idag i Verden / Today in the World
Keiserholde, Fujai - When asked about the latest trade agreement between Larxia and Min-Su at a press conference today, Koalisjon VR Bo Bråten, member of the Velktinget Utanrikskommiteen (Velktinget Foreign Affairs Committee), stated "As can be seen by the text of the agreement, let alone the by the consequences it will have, that this is yet another example of Larxian imperialism and their growing influence in the southern hemisphere."
Dilber City, Dilber - The Landslag i Rugby has marked two wins and a draw after a first round bye in the Rugby World Cup. The Landslag previously took second place in the First Rugby World Cup and I Summer Olympics in Saint-Josalyn last summer. The first match saw them overcome the Markian team in a 6-0 victory, which saw no small amount of celebration by fans gathered in Dilber. Their second match against Larxia saw them widen their margin to 20-9, though their winning formula fell hard in a disappointing 3-3 draw against United Adaikes. Despite this, their success has secured the Landslag a spot in the knockout round, and according to the Adaikesian bookmakers, the top spot in the group if they can pull off a blowout against Fhaengshia in their next match.
Zimmerich, Reçueçn - Preparations are ongoing for a joint transportation conference between Universität Zimmerich and Universitet i Strafsund. It is expected to be a hub of discussion between Fujansk and Reçuecian planners on expanding the informal continental high-speed rail system. While there are several lines that cross international borders, the administration of these transportation corridors varies wildly in each country, disrupting easy travel, particularly here in the high north, where airplanes are not as common as in the south.
Lakseåker, Fujai - In the hometown of three national rugby players in the center of Fujai's relatively small rugby culture, people have been glued to television sets in pubs and community centers across the city for the past days. As the Landslag pushes its way forward, celebrations will become more common, culminating, we all hope, in another tense showdown for the championship.

Adaikesians leveled with last year's runner-ups!
The United Adaikes National Rugby Team were in jitters as they faced the runner-ups from the previous (and inaugural) World Cup. The possession of the ball were back and forth between the two teams as neither can score with the extensive defense showed during the whole game. Scoring started in the second half with Fujanske getting a drop goal in the 54th minute coming from a long throw from the sidelines. United Adaikes returned the favor of a drop goal after a scrum in the 77th minute.
At the post-match press conference, Sharks coach Giovannie Gallardo had said, "We can say our defense was there. Y'know, they're the runner-ups, and I can say that we have done well against them. But we need to take a look into finding more opportunities in our offense. We'll be reviewing all of Saint Mark's games in this tournament and hopefully we can find a way to capitalize against their gameplay."
With the draw, Fujanske is ensured of a place in the quarterfinals. The result of the United Adaikes-Saint Mark's game will determine the final standings of the top three teams in Group D, while Larxia and Fhaengshia are out of the contention for a place in the knock-outs. Larxia has finished 4th in the group after drawing their last game with Saint Mark, while Fhaengshia has not picked up any wins yet. Fhaengshia will be playing against Fujanske but any result will have them stay at 5th in Group D.
HT: Fujai 0-0 United Adaikes
FT: Fujai 3-3 United Adaikes
Reporter: Ms. Raquel Lamanilao

Day 4 Results
Group A Tara & Cambray 21–13 Nark Dilber 11–13 Libterraria Kurabis 32–20 Nieubasria Group A Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Libterraria 4 4 0 0 67 43 +24 12 2 Kurabis 4 3 1 0 72 46 +26 10 3 Dilber 4 2 0 2 71 51 +20 6 4 Tara & Cambray 4 1 0 3 65 78 −13 3 5 Nieubasria 4 1 0 3 76 104 −28 3 6 Nark 4 0 1 3 54 83 −29 1 Group B Giovanniland 12–0 Bobki Mediobogdum 6–6 Min-Su Group B Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Min-Su 4 2 1 1 52 46 +6 7 2 Dalimbar 3 2 0 1 61 29 +32 6 3 Mediobogdum 3 1 1 1 34 30 +4 4 4 Giovanniland 3 1 0 2 24 28 −4 3 5 Bobki 3 1 0 2 21 59 −38 3 Group C Hertfordshire and Jammbo 17–3 Reçueçn Teralyon 10–20 Zoran Group C Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Hertfordshire and Jammbo 3 3 0 0 56 17 +39 9 2 Zoran 4 3 0 1 52 34 +18 9 3 Big Bad Badger 3 1 1 1 32 25 +7 4 4 Reçueçn 3 0 1 2 18 40 −22 1 5 Teralyon 3 0 0 3 10 52 −42 0 Group D Fujai 3–3 United Adaikes Saint Mark 0–0 Larxia Group D Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Fujai 3 2 1 0 29 12 +17 7 2 United Adaikes 3 2 1 0 38 28 +10 7 3 Saint Mark 3 1 1 1 22 18 +4 4 4 Larxia 4 1 1 2 28 40 −12 4 5 Fhaengshia 3 0 0 3 35 54 −19 0  

Another day, another update to the rankings. As per usual, many changes to the rankings have happened, but perhaps the biggest upset would be the Min-Su vs Giovanniland match. Going in Giovanniland had 53.14 rank points and a home advantage. Yet, the scrappy team from Min-Su took Giovanniland down and gained 3.10 rank points as a result. H&J and Fujai continue to make strong cases for their sides to make it to the final. 
Away (Y/A)     Home (Z/B) Kurabis (50.49) 20 10 Cambria (47.56+3) Nieubasria (46.63) 18 40 Dilber (50.32+3) Libterraria (51.39) 17 05 Nark (46.52+3) Min-Su (50.64) 12 06 Giovanniland (53.14+3)  Bobki (51.40) 00 30 Dalimbar (49.78+3) Zoran (53.85) 14 24 Hertfordshire and Jammbo (60.69+3) Recuecn (48.42) 15 15 Big Bad Badger (49.83+3) Larxia (49.76) 09 20 Fujai (58.64+3) United Adaikes (51.40) 21 17 Fhaengshia (46.24+3) Day 3 Rankings:
Hertfordshire and Jammbo - 60.72 Fujai - 58.26 Zoran - 53.82 Min-Su - 53.74 Libterraria - 53.02 United Adaikes - 52.97 Taledo - 52.80 Kurabis - 52.50 Dalimbar - 52.37 Mediobogdum - 51.56 Dilber - 51.31 Saint Mark - 50.86 Larxia - 50.14 Giovanniland - 50.04 Sensorland - 49.74 Bhang Bhang Duc - 49.68 Recuecn - 49.30 Big Bad Badger - 48.95 Bobki - 48.81 Westwind - 47.58 Teralyon - 47.36 Nieubasria - 45.68 Cambria - 45.55 Darkesia - 45.41 Croblade - 44.92 Nark - 44.89 Fhaengshia - 44.67 OMI - 43.39

The Fhaendhaw Spectator
 
DEFEAT FROM THE JAWS OF VICTORY
02-12-1420. story by Lurienh Geonts.
Dilber. Facing a top contender for the group stage in the United Adaikes Sharks, the Mountaineers needed to win, and win big to have a chance of progressing to the quarter finals. The first half looked rough facing down two tries in quick succession with only a drop goal from trusty kicker Neijstoi Rallesn racking up points for the Mountaineers. But when the second half came around, a well timed interchange got fresh legs on the field in the form of Detshaer Riemlaic who was instrumental in the Mountaineers’ two tries of the match. With only a 4 point lead, the Sharks stalled for time to finish a lacklustre half, but a win regardless.
A bye tomorrow gives some time to prepare for the match with the Fujansk Landslag, who face the Sharks tomorrow in what could be the biggest match of the group. The runner-up of the last tournament, very comfortably 2nd in the rankings, offer the Mountaineers a formidable peak to scale. The indomitable team managed to slip past the Sharks in the group rankings with a solid victory against Larxia, and have conceded only 9 points, the least of all teams in the tournament. But with both the Sharks and the Mountaineers being the highest scoring teams in Group D, the Fujansk defences are going to be put through the ringer.
Facing an early end to the tournament, coach Sanreig Hraic offered little in excuses, “the team has played well in their first internationals, but always just short of getting a win.” It’s unlikely the Mountaineers will dally in Dilber, as many appear keen to return home. Perhaps they want to get high and dry in the Mountain Amphitheatre of Oune, far away from the jaws of lions and sharks.

Sharks continue winning ways, but head coach concerned in the complacency shown by the team late in the game.
The United Adaikes National Rugby Team started strong when they scored 2 tries and their subsequent conversions within 8 minutes that started on the 17th minute. The Fhaengshia Mountaineers went for a drop goal in the 34th minute. The half time pep talk by the coaches boosted the two teams, with the Sharks increasing their lead with a try followed by a successful conversion just 7 minutes into the second half. However, the Mountaineers did not want to let the atmosphere of the game control them as they tried to come back, scoring with 2 tries (and successful conversions) on the 63rd minute and the 74th minute. The Adaikesian team held with the possession of the ball and stalled until the time.
Coach Gallardo had this to say at the post-match press conference: "We didn't have the faintest idea that our players will be complacent after having three tries. We will make sure that this will not cross their minds again until the end of full time." Captain Miguel Gonzales had also said, "Our next two games will be crucial to the final positioning of the table for the knockouts. The next game will have us playing with the runner-up from the last World Cup, and we will have to be in our best to at least have a competitive match and bring that energy to our final game in the group stage. Hopefully, we can produce results that our nation can still be proud on."
Both Fujanske Rugby Landslag and the United Adaikes National Rugby Team are at the top of Group D with a 7 point difference between the two teams. The winner of their game will be ensured a spot in the knock-outs.
HT: United Adaikes 14-3 Fhaengshia
FT: United Adaikes 21-17 Fhaengshia
Reporter: Ms. Raquel Lamanilao

On day 2 of the tournament we can say it was the Day of the Home Advantage. Every single home advantage team, except in the Hertfordshire and Jammbo vs. Teralyon and the Fujai vs. Saint Mark games, saw victory. In the exceptions, we continue to see why H&J and Fujai are at the top of the rankings. But there is to be a case made for home advantage, hence why we factor in a home advantage in the formula. This certainly helped one side in particular, the squad from Nieubasria, which was inching closer and closer to absolute bottom of the rankings against a team despised and obliterated, the Order of the Marsupial Inductees.
Away (Y/A)     Home (Z/B) Cambria (48.62) 21 28 Libterraria (50.33+3) Nark (48.81) 23 32 Nieubasria (44.34+3) Dilber (52.59) 03 07 Kurabis (48.22+3) Dalimbar (51.82) 13 17 Min-Su (48.60+3) Giovanniland (56.00) 06 16 Mediobogdum (48.70+3) Big Bad Badger (50.82) 00 10 Zoran (52.86+3) Hertfordshire and Jammbo (60.80) 15 00 Teralyon (47.25+3) Fhaengshia (47.40) 06 11 Larxia (48.60+3) Fujai (56.90) 06 00 Saint Mark (52.60+3)  Day 2 Rankings:
Hertfordshire and Jammbo - 60.69 Fujai - 58.64 Zoran - 53.85 Giovanniland - 53.14 Taledo - 52.80 Mediobogdum - 51.56 Bobki - 51.40 United Adaikes - 51.40 Libterraria - 51.59 Saint Mark - 50.86 Min-Su - 50.64 Kurabis - 50.49 Dilber - 50.32 Big Bad Badger - 49.83 Dalimbar - 49.78 Larxia - 49.76 Sensorland - 49.74 Bhang Bhang Duc - 49.68 Recuecn - 48.42 Westwind - 47.58 Cambria - 47.56 Teralyon - 47.36 Nieubasria - 46.63 Nark - 46.52 Fhaengshia - 46.24 Darkesia - 45.41 Croblade - 44.92 OMI - 43.39

Day 3 Results
Group A Kurabis 20–10 Tara & Cambray Nieubasria 18–40 Dilber Libterraria 17–5 Nark Group A Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Libterraria 3 3 0 0 54 32 +22 9 2 Kurabis 3 2 1 0 40 26 +14 7 3 Dilber 3 2 0 1 60 38 +22 6 4 Nieubasria 3 1 0 2 56 72 −16 3 5 Nark 3 0 1 2 41 62 −21 1 6 Tara & Cambray 3 0 0 3 44 65 −21 0 Group B Min-Su 12–6 Giovanniland Bobki 0–30 Dalimbar Group B Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Dalimbar 3 2 0 1 61 29 +32 6 2 Min-Su 3 2 0 1 46 40 +6 6 3 Mediobogdum 2 1 0 1 28 24 +4 3 4 Bobki 2 1 0 1 21 47 −26 3 5 Giovanniland 2 0 0 2 12 28 −16 0 Group C Zoran 14–24 Hertfordshire and Jammbo Reçueçn 15–15 Big Bad Badger Group C Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Hertfordshire and Jammbo 2 2 0 0 39 14 +25 6 2 Zoran 3 2 0 1 32 24 +8 6 3 Big Bad Badger 3 1 1 1 32 25 +7 4 4 Reçueçn 2 0 1 1 15 23 −8 1 5 Teralyon 2 0 0 2 0 32 −32 0 Group D Larxia 9–20 Fujai United Adaikes 21–17 Fhaengshia Group D Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Fujai 2 2 0 0 26 9 +17 6 2 United Adaikes 2 2 0 0 35 25 +10 6 3 Saint Mark 2 1 0 1 22 18 +4 3 4 Larxia 3 1 0 2 28 40 −12 3 5 Fhaengshia 3 0 0 3 35 54 −19 0  

The Fhaendhaw Spectator
 
RUGBY RETREAT RISKS RECKONING
01-12-1420. story by Lurienh Geonts.
Dilber. After arriving later than expected the national rugby team, the Mountaineers, were fortunate with the tournament having been pushed back a day for unknown but seemingly controversial purposes. That is where luck for the Mountaineers dried up faster than a puddle in Enuo. Facing a defensive Saint Markan Royal Rugby team, the Lions, many Mountaineers were mauled when daring too deep into the Lions’ den. The first half alone saw 6 turnovers for Saint Mark, with Lions flanker Gregor Napoli winning half of those.
Giving up a try within the first 15 minutes, Mountaineers captain Hoifte Ikroeh knew it was going to be tough, and was able to make room for fly-half Neijstoi Rallesn to score a drop goal over the Lions’ heads just before half time leaving the score at 7-3. This appeared to be the strategy adopted for the match as all of the Mountaineers’ points came from drop goals and penalties. The Lions, perhaps a little too fierce in their defence gave up two easy penalties with offside players, but the score remained too steep to scale with a second try scored in the 62nd minute, without conversion.
When the full time buzzer sounded, the Lions had 22 points with 3 tries and a penalty, to the Mountaineers’ 12 points. Interviewed post game, Ikroeh acknowledged the need for the Mountaineers to clean up their game. With the game against the Larxian Rugby team shortly afterwards, perhaps there wasn’t enough time as this ended with another loss in the group stages in a low scoring match.
With both teams going on the offence early, it was a surprise to see the first half empty of tries ending at 3-3 after penalty kicks. A strong line out catch by the Larxians led to the single try of the match by Larxian winger Willie Naholo, but being right on the sidelines proved too much for kicker Michael Davies. After winning another penalty, the Mountaineers were within striking distance of their first win, but Davies redeemed himself with a second penalty rounding out the buzzer with a win for Larxia. The final score, 6-11, leaves the Mountaineers at the bottom of the table and with the next match against the United Adaikes Sharks at the top of the table, blood is in the water.

The Fhaendhaw Spectator
 
RUGBY RETREAT RISKS RECKONING
01-12-1420. story by Lurienh Geonts.
Dilber. After arriving later than expected the national rugby team, the Mountaineers, were fortunate with the tournament having been pushed back a day for unknown but seemingly controversial purposes. That is where luck for the Mountaineers dried up faster than a puddle in Enuo. Facing a defensive Saint Markan Royal Rugby team, the Lions, many Mountaineers were mauled when daring too deep into the Lions’ den. The first half alone saw 6 turnovers for Saint Mark, with Lions flanker Gregor Napoli winning half of those.
Giving up a try within the first 15 minutes, Mountaineers captain Hoifte Ikroeh knew it was going to be tough, and was able to make room for fly-half Neijstoi Rallesn to score a drop goal over the Lions’ heads just before half time leaving the score at 7-3. This appeared to be the strategy adopted for the match as all of the Mountaineers’ points came from drop goals and penalties. The Lions, perhaps a little too fierce in their defence gave up two easy penalties with offside players, but the score remained too steep to scale with a second try scored in the 62nd minute, without conversion.
When the full time buzzer sounded, the Lions had 22 points with 3 tries and a penalty, to the Mountaineers’ 12 points. Interviewed post game, Ikroeh acknowledged the need for the Mountaineers to clean up their game. With the game against the Larxian Rugby team shortly afterwards, perhaps there wasn’t enough time as this ended with another loss in the group stages in a low scoring match.
With both teams going on the offence early, it was a surprise to see the first half empty of tries ending at 3-3 after penalty kicks. A strong line out catch by the Larxians led to the single try of the match by Larxian winger Willie Naholo, but being right on the sidelines proved too much for kicker Michael Davies. After winning another penalty, the Mountaineers were within striking distance of their first win, but Davies redeemed himself with a second penalty rounding out the buzzer with a win for Larxia. The final score, 6-11, leaves the Mountaineers at the bottom of the table and with the next match against the United Adaikes Sharks at the top of the table, blood is in the water.

The Fhaendhaw Spectator
 
RUGBY RETREAT RISKS RECKONING
01-12-1420. story by Lurienh Geonts.
Dilber. After arriving later than expected the national rugby team, the Mountaineers, were fortunate with the tournament having been pushed back a day for unknown but seemingly controversial purposes. That is where luck for the Mountaineers dried up faster than a puddle in Enuo. Facing a defensive Saint Markan Royal Rugby team, the Lions, many Mountaineers were mauled when daring too deep into the Lions’ den. The first half alone saw 6 turnovers for Saint Mark, with Lions flanker Gregor Napoli winning half of those.
Giving up a try within the first 15 minutes, Mountaineers captain Hoifte Ikroeh knew it was going to be tough, and was able to make room for fly-half Neijstoi Rallesn to score a drop goal over the Lions’ heads just before half time leaving the score at 7-3. This appeared to be the strategy adopted for the match as all of the Mountaineers’ points came from drop goals and penalties. The Lions, perhaps a little too fierce in their defence gave up two easy penalties with offside players, but the score remained too steep to scale with a second try scored in the 62nd minute, without conversion.
When the full time buzzer sounded, the Lions had 22 points with 3 tries and a penalty, to the Mountaineers’ 12 points. Interviewed post game, Ikroeh acknowledged the need for the Mountaineers to clean up their game. With the game against the Larxian Rugby team shortly afterwards, perhaps there wasn’t enough time as this ended with another loss in the group stages in a low scoring match.
With both teams going on the offence early, it was a surprise to see the first half empty of tries ending at 3-3 after penalty kicks. A strong line out catch by the Larxians led to the single try of the match by Larxian winger Willie Naholo, but being right on the sidelines proved too much for kicker Michael Davies. After winning another penalty, the Mountaineers were within striking distance of their first win, but Davies redeemed himself with a second penalty rounding out the buzzer with a win for Larxia. The final score, 6-11, leaves the Mountaineers at the bottom of the table and with the next match against the United Adaikes Sharks at the top of the table, blood is in the water.

Welcome back to Rugby Ratings, provided by the Department of Sport of the Free State of Dalimbar. With day one action completed in the Second  Rugby WOrld Cup, we're proud to present stats madness throughout the tournament!
The biggest upset of the day easily went to the host team, Dilber. With them coming into this tournament with a ranking of 49.58 and playing technically as the "away" team, they needed to find anyway possible (with perhaps the use of some form of substance claimed to be "essential oils") to assist them overcome the Cambrian squad, which was sitting at 51.63 rank points. Add a "home" bonus of 3 to Cambria and one would expect them to stomp over the Dilber squad. But that's the beauty of rugby, expectations fly out the window as soon as the first scrum happens.
We also see our first tied match of either tournament, thus requiring a bit of explanation of how we account for ties. In the match between Kurabis (47.03) vs Nark (new, thus starting with 50.00), Kurabis was technically the underdog due to the lower rank points and not holding the "home advantage". Kurabis, because of the draw, was able to gain 1.19 points due to the following:
D = ((50.00+3)-47.03)x0.2 = 1.19
Where Nark had 50.00 rank points and had a pre-match home field advantage of 3, giving Nark 53.00 pre-match points. Kurabis, as noted above, had 47.03. Thus, despite drawing, Kurabis was able to gain as they were not necessarily expected to win or draw against Nark.
With that being said, here's the results.
Away (Y/A)     Home (Z/B) Dilber (49.58) 17 13 Cambria (51.63+3) Kurabis (47.03) 13 13 Nark (50.00+3) Nieubasria (44.67) 06 09 Libterraria (50.00+3) Mediobogdum (50.00) 12 18 Dalimbar (50.52+3) Min-Su (50.00) 17 21 Bobki (50.00+3) Teralyon (49.83) 00 17 Big Bad Badger (48.24+3) Zoran (50.00) 08 00 Recuecn (51.28+3) Saint Mark (50.00) 22 12 Fhaengshia (50.00+3) Larxia (50.00) 08 14 United Adaikes (50.00+3) For fun, the Department of Sports has decided to keep the teams not playing this tournament in the rankings, but will italicize those not participating. They're included to provide some form of comparison on how other squads are doing this time around.
 Day 1 Rankings:
Hertfordshire and Jammbo - 60.80 Fujai - 56.90 Giovanniland - 56.00 Zoran - 52.86 Taledo - 52.80 Saint Mark - 52.60 Dilber - 52.59 Dalimbar - 51.82 Bobki - 51.40 United Adaikes - 51.40 Big Bad Badger - 50.82 Libterraria - 50.33 Sensorland - 49.75 Bhang Bhang Duc - 49.68 Nark - 48.81 Mediobogdum - 48.70 Cambria - 48.62 Larxia - 48.60 Min-Su - 48.60 Recuecn - 48.42 Kurabis - 48.22 Westwind - 47.58 Fhaengshia - 47.40 Teralyon - 47.25 Darkesia - 45.41 Croblade - 44.92 Nieubasria - 44.34 OMI - 43.39

Day 2 Results
Group A Tara & Cambray 21–28 Libterraria Nark 23–32 Nieubasria Dilber 3–7 Kurabis Group A Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Libterraria 2 2 0 0 37 27 +10 6 2 Kurabis 2 1 1 0 20 16 +4 4 3 Nieubasria 2 1 0 1 38 32 +6 3 4 Dilber 2 1 0 1 20 20 0 3 5 Nark 2 0 1 1 36 45 −9 1 6 Tara & Cambray 2 0 0 2 34 45 −11 0 Group B Dalimbar 13–17 Min-Su Giovanniland 6–16 Mediobogdum Group B Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Mediobogdum 2 1 0 1 28 24 +4 3 2 Bobki 1 1 0 0 21 17 +4 3 3 Dalimbar 2 1 0 1 31 29 +2 3 4 Min-Su 2 1 0 1 34 34 0 3 5 Giovanniland 1 0 0 1 6 16 −10 0 Group C Big Bad Badger 0–10 Zoran Hertfordshire and Jammbo 15–0 Teralyon Group C Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Zoran 2 2 0 0 18 0 +18 6 2 Hertfordshire and Jammbo 1 1 0 0 15 0 +15 3 3 Big Bad Badger 2 1 0 1 17 10 +7 3 4 Reçueçn 1 0 0 1 0 8 −8 0 5 Teralyon 2 0 0 2 0 32 −32 0 Group D Fhaengshia 6–11 Larxia Fujai 6–0 Saint Mark Group D Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 United Adaikes 1 1 0 0 14 8 +6 3 2 Fujai 1 1 0 0 6 0 +6 3 3 Saint Mark 2 1 0 1 22 18 +4 3 4 Larxia 2 1 0 1 19 20 −1 3 5 Fhaengshia 2 0 0 2 18 33 −15 0

The United Adaikes National Rugby Team drew first blood in their first official international game!
Larxia Rugby scored first with a try but missed their conversion kick. The Sharks took the lead just before the first half ended with a try and the subsequent conversion kick. The Adaikesians scored again in the 71st minute to increase the lead to 14-5. Larxia scored a drop goal in the 75th minute to establish the final score.
They will be having a rest day tomorrow because of the bye but will take on the Fhaengshia Mountaineers the next day who lost to the Saint Markan Royal Rugby Team earlier. Sharks coach Gallardo has said that they will not be practicing on their rest day but will look at the tape on the Fhaengshia-Saint Mark game to analyze both Fhaengshia's and Saint Mark's tactics they can utilize and use against them for their next game.
HT: Larxia 5-7 United Adaikes
FT: Larxia 8-14 United Adaikes
Reporter: Ms. Raquel Lamanilao

The evening after the first game found Sir Evan in his room reviewing the recordings of the game over tea with the team.
I was quite impressed with our scoring, gentlemen. Part of that was due to a few mistakes by The Mountaineers, but mostly it was due to our own intelligent decisions.
Keep that up!
Defensively, we were good, but could have done better. Remember, the post must tackle the ball carrier back towards the ruck. If they allow the attacker to cross the gain line, the rest of the defense will be forced to retire behind the last feet to be on-side. While they are doing so, a quick ball can give the attack advantage and have the defense playing catch up. I know you know this, but in the heat of the game, you want to be helpful to your teammates, of course, but it's more important for your to play your own role! You gentlemen generally did do this, and really did a fine job overall. Just, be a bit better focused.
All together, this was a fine game, gentlemen! You make Saint Mark proud!

Day 1 Results
Group A Dilber 17–13 Tara & Cambray Kurabis 13–13 Nark Nieubasria 6–9 Libterraria Group A Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Dilber 1 1 0 0 17 13 +4 3 2 Libterraria 1 1 0 0 9 6 +3 3 3 Kurabis 1 0 1 0 13 13 0 1 Nark 1 0 1 0 13 13 0 1 5 Nieubasria 1 0 0 1 6 9 −3 0 6 Tara & Cambray 1 0 0 1 13 17 −4 0 Group B Mediobogdum 12–18 Dalimbar Min-Su 17–21 Bobki Group B Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Dalimbar 1 1 0 0 18 12 +6 3 2 Bobki 1 1 0 0 21 17 +4 3 3 Min-Su 1 0 0 1 17 21 −4 0 4 Mediobogdum 1 0 0 1 12 18 −6 0 Group C Teralyon 0–17 Big Bad Badger Zoran 8–0 Reçueçn Group C Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Big Bad Badger 1 1 0 0 17 0 +17 3 2 Zoran 1 1 0 0 8 0 +8 3 3 Reçueçn 1 0 0 1 0 8 −8 0 4 Teralyon 1 0 0 1 0 17 −17 0 Group D Saint Mark 22–12 Fhaengshia Larxia 8–14 United Adaikes Group D Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts 1 Saint Mark 1 1 0 0 22 12 +10 3 2 United Adaikes 1 1 0 0 14 8 +6 3 3 Larxia 1 0 0 1 8 14 −6 0 4 Fhaengshia 1 0 0 1 12 22 −10 0 OOC notes: if your name does not appear, that's because you had a bye today. Your name will appear at the next scorination. Also, my apologies for the delay. Hopefully it is not too much of an issue for anybody so the tournament will move ahead as scheduled.