ABBF Fall Championship 2511 - Not the face! League

[schwager]

Happy New Year to you sports fans!!!

ABBF Blood Bowl mayhem is back... and we will kick off the new season this coming Monday. This one's all about the fairer races of the game. Sounds intriguing? Read on for all the details:


ABBF Fall Championship 2511 - Not the face! League

When:
10/01 - 18/04, followed by three weeks of finals.

Where:
Monday nights from 6pm at Manor House Bar & Brasserie, 465 Gt North Rd, Grey Lynn, Auckland.
Sundays from 1pm at Auckland City Guard, Freeman's Bay Community Centre on Hepburn Street.

How:
You can download the Elf Rules PDF from the link below...
http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/download/ABBF_elf_rules.pdf

Naturally we expect to see some familiar faces from last year return to the pitch, but we also expect to welcome a few new coaches into the fold. Everyone is welcome and we are more than happy to give newcomers a demonstration of the game. Our regulars all have plenty of different teams, so you don't even need to bring anything to get in on the action.

We look forward to meeting you on the pitch.

And as always... long live Blood Bowl!!!

[Craig]

Sounds like fun... And as the monday location is on my bus route home, I think I might try and head along!

[Menolly]

Oooh, I could play my Amazons at the club

[Big D]

Oooh, I could play my Amazons at the club

If we're playing at CG, my Dwarfs are in

[schwager]

Dwarves, Amazons & a surprise team... awesome!

Our first session at the CityGuard will be Sunday, 16th of January.
It's all pretty casual, so pop on by and have a go.

We do like to keep everyone posted on what's happening, including results, standings and match reports, as well as organisational stuff. In order to make it easier for us to keep track of everyone, we would appreciate it if you could send a quick email to the League Commission with the following info:

Full name (so we know who you are)
Contact email (where you want ABBF stuff sent to)
Contact phone (in the rare event we need to get hold of you on short notice)
Race(s) and name(s) of the team(s) you intend to play this season (whenever you've decided)

Look forward to meeting you all on the pitch

[schwager]

Welcome sports fans...

... to what looks to be a great season of puffery and poseurs, yes, the fabulous Not the face! League.
And a great start it was with 7 games played on the opening night and three new coaches. Welcome Mark, Dan and James. There will be new coaches starting too on Sunday 15th (tomorrow!) at City Guard (beginning at 1pm at Freemans Bay Community Centre). Hopefully we'll see there too some of Monday's coaches, and some of the regulars who missed the opening night.

'Face was to be a season of scores and prancing (careful gentlemen), but the opening night saw a massive 5 deaths and 34 casualties (and this is with eagle-eyed refs) and only 22 TDs!  Yes indeed, this is Bloodbowl. There is a huge variety of teams including one each of the various Elf teams.  

If you haven't started yet, be sure to catch up on the results, and check out the 'Face rules on
http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/index.html

And now, the game reports (it's an ABBF tradition that winning coaches write up a brief/detailed report of the game, unless the loser volunteers to do so, to give his/her humiliation a finer tweak!):


The Travelling Salesmen's Social Club (Human/Murray) vs. Wolfdregil (Norse/David)
Score: 1 -1
Casualties: 2 - 2
Spectators: 18,000

In this rookie match, it was obvious that the fans expected some serious touchdown action from the two teams ('Cheering fans' came up 3 times on the kickoff table throughout the match!),
 and they were, ahem, sorely disappointed. TTSSC received the kick-off and pounded up to the half - way line, only to spit the ball out on a handoff attempt. What followed was a half-long push-a-thon, as each team  shoved each other around, yet failed to do any damage. The ball traveled all of about 8 squares after it was dropped, most of them sideways as the teams milled around leering at each other, but hardly ever making contact, apart from one lucky punter nailing a Norse Werewolf, who was knocked out cold early on. It was hard to say who was more surprised! Finally, near the end of the half, some players finally learned how to hit, and one casualty apiece and a handful of knock-outs (mainly Norse) followed before the ref finally got bored and called the teams in for half time.

The fans once again raised the roof at the start of the second half, egging TTSSC on as they kicked off to a vastly outnumbered Wolfdregil, who quickly flew up the right wing, only to be clotheslined by a blitzer just over half - way. The crowd began to get anxious, as another brawl continued all the way into the third quarter, and a scoreless game looked inevitable until a thrower from TTSSC finally managed to actually pick up the ball and fly downfield, handing off and scoring after 12 long turns of fruitless scrabbling. The crowd turned at this point and began chanting for the hardy Norse. They responded, breaking through the line, fending off some weak tackles from a thrower and scoring to equalize in the last turn. As the teams set up one last time, a rather sheepish (and possibly a touch hungover) werewolf (the first knock-out of the game!) finally showed his face back on the pitch to share in the glory of a last minute reprieve from defeat. To add salt to TTSSC's injuries, a blizzard rolled in, leaving them with the taste of what-glory-might-have-been-like smacking on their lips.

The most controversial part of the entire debacle was the extremely odd selections around MVP. For TTSSC, the award went to their ogre, who spent more time contemplating his own balls than the one on the field, and for Wolfdregil, that infamous werewolf who spent at least three quarters of the game supping on bloodweiser and pretending to be knocked out.


Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg) vs Malekith's Malice (Dark Elf/DanD) 3-0 (5-1)

In what promised to be a definitive battle of good vs evil, the good had Nuffle's ever present ear, right from the beginning when the Toffs gained Fame.  From then on most kick-offs resulted in an even roll for a re-roll, but because of fame, the Toffs got them all.  And they proved crucial.  

The opening kick-off went of course to the Toffs, but this so infuriated the Malice fans that a very accurate rock nailed the waiting high elf passer, stunning him.   The kick was poor though, and went back over the LoS.  The HE catcher, Ponce de Leon, was assigned the ball, but struggled to score.  Suddenly a cas, and then a KO to the witch elf (who declined to re-enter the game at all, her kohl having run), and a score.  Kickoff to the darkones but troubles, dropped balls, failed dodges and a turn-over.  But the Toffs couldn't pick up the semi-loose ball in 3 turns so no score. Tuffs did get two more cas vs the Malice.
Second half, and a kick-off to Malice, who drove down beautifully, but eventually ran out of players and lost the ball deep in Toffs' half.  Toffs grabbed it, held, inflicted another cas and scored.  Malice was furious, but once again kept skulling blocks and tripping up.  They even tried fouling but couldn't do anything but stun.  And the Toffs scored again.

After the game, the Toff's coach, Wine, revealed that he had a direct line to Nuffle, and showed his iPhoneEtherial to the admiring press.


Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian) vs Norty Norse (Norse/Dan)

The Grünburg Bruisers have returned once more to the ABBF... and just in time to play the opening match of the new season, against the Norty Norse Norse team.

It was a pleasant evening, befitting the theme for the new season, with a crowd of 21,000 fans who were mostly cheering for the northern newcomers.
The Norse also won the coin toss and chose to receive.

As the kick sailed through the air, the Bruisers quickly re-arranged their defensive line, but that turned out to be of little use. From the early exchanges, Norty Norse emerged as the clear winners. In fact, most of the Human defenders spent a lot of time on the ground during the early stages of the match, as the Vikings ground their way up-field.
Although the Bruisers started to regain some composure again shortly after, it was already to late. The Norse went for a quick score, so as not to incur the wrath of the crowd, who have no patience for stallers this season.
Now 0-1 down, the Humans tried to fight back with a quick score before halftime and run a couple of potential receivers upfield. One was taken out straight away and the second was marked by three defenders and went down on his getaway attempt.

After the break, the Bruisers had another go at evening the score. Having a slight advantage in numbers, things went a lot smoother this time round. After a text book rushing play down the flank it was Thrower Hans Schussmann who scored the equaliser for the Humans.
This left the Norty Norse with plenty of time to have another go themselves. Their attacking drive initially got stuck in the middle of the pitch, but suddenly a hole opened when one of the Bruisers Blitzer's got badly hurt and the majority of the team found themselves out of position. A desperate last attempt from the defenders resulted in an impressive self-destruct and the Norse took home the match 2-1.

Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian) vs Norty Norse (Norse/Dan) 1-2 (2-3) 1 killed


Stirland STDs (Human/James) vs Norty Norse (Norse/Dan) 1-2 (2-3)

Norty Norse proceeded to win their second match of the night as well, facing another Human team... ABBF newcomers, the Stirland STDs.
While the STDs were putting up a brave fight, their players seemed to knock-out rather easily, and they spent most of the first half playing with only half their team on the pitch.
Things seemed to look up in the second half, but the Norse never relinquished control of the match, claiming another 2-1 win and placing them second on the table.


Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) vs Virile Vikings (Norse/Nathan)

Much controversy surrounded Monday night's late match between Rottenham Clotspew and the Virile Vikings. Questions are being asked as to how a Nurgle team could be allowed in the Not the face! League. There have even been rumours that the ABBF League Commissioner himself had been infected with Nurgle's Rot (while attending last season's Quarter-finals) and was, in fact, coaching the team himself. These rumours are, of course, completely ridiculous and without substance, and have been vehemently denied by an ABBF spokesperson.

Whatever the truth, the Rotters were admitted and the match went ahead.
12,000 fans were in attendance, and surprisingly, exactly half of them were cheering for the diseased ones.

The Vikings set up to receive the kick and things got underway with a Riot.
After things had calmed down again, the Norse collected the ball and started bashing their way through the defense. Initially things went well for the Vikings, but the resilience of the Nugle defenders soon became apparent and the drive got stuck around the LOS. A lot of pushing and shoving ensued and just as it looked as if the Norse were gonna break through, the ball popped out on the side. A bit more pushing and shoving and fumbling the ball around, and suddenly the half ended without either team being able to get close to the other's endzone.

The second half saw Rottenham receive the kick, which bounced right into the arms of Nurgle Warrior Rotgut Bellysore. The big fellow held on tight and the rest of the team formed up around him. Inch by inch, the followers of Nurgle ground forward, leaving a trail of blood and slime in their wake. Norse Lineman Eric the Cold Knee fell victim to the Rot and has since signed up with Rottenham. The foul tide proved unstoppable as more and more defenders fell to the onslaught (most of them KO'd), and Rotgut Bellysore (who was still holding on tight) ran in the TD for Rottenham.
With two turns left, there was still a chance for the Norse to equalise and, despite being outnumbered, they got themselves into a promising position. The Nurgle defenders, however, had other ideas and sent Pockskin Threeface the BoN after the lone receiver. The beast held on tightly with its tentacles and the Norse player simply couldn't get away and into the endzone, let alone catch the ball.
And so the mighty Beast of Nurgle saved the game for Rotteham and earned them a place in the top four on the table... for now, anyway.

Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) vs Virile Vikings (Norse/Nathan) 1-0 (2-2) 1 killed


Drakenburg Demons (Vampire/Nick) vs Sexual Frustration (Amazon/Mark)

The newly risen Vampires were a bit apprehensive of facing an all dodge team without any block or tackle but were lucky enough to hardly be thirsty at all in compensation. The Zons choose to kick-off and the Vampires ran through a quick 3 turn TD. The Frustration vented on their receive and took half the vampires off the pitch for the rest of the game in the 1st quarter, the Vampires tried their best, but with dwindling numbers they couldn't stop the Zons getting to the end-zone in Turn 8. Receiving again at the start of the 2nd half, Frustration caged the ball and continued up the pitch, letting their superior numbers work for them as every time the Vampires dodged into the cage and popped the ball clean they just didn't have the players to clear it. Scoring with 3 turns left in the half, the Demons were left with 2 Vamp's and 4 Thralls to attempt a last ditch effort, which, with an unlucky dodge by a Frustration player they managed to pull off for the draw.

Final Score: Vampires 2-2 (1-4) Amazons


All results and standings can be found here:
http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/results/current.html


Christian Schwager Commissioner, Co-coordinator for Not the Face! League
Greg Hagg  News Editor
David Cleverely Co-coordinator for Not the Face! League

[schwager]

Welcome back sports fans!

A lively start to the year for sure: lots of unexpected results and, not so live-ly, lots of deaths - 8 so far!
We don't yet have all reports in, but the trad is, if you win, or if you draw with more cas, you do a report. It can be brief.

16 teams now entered, with at least 2 more to come!  Check out the standings at http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/results/current.html

Don't forget too, that we play again this Sunday at City Guard: 1:00 kick off for several of us, tho this Sunday, Christian is coming at 2:30, so you can get a game with him then if you want to be later.  Or have a second game.

And now to the bloodletting, but first a report from the gentlest Dwarf/Amazon game in memory:

Karak Hirn Tigers (Dwarf/Daryl) vs Girls' Night Out (Amazon/Greg)

This version of the Girls entered the field more than slightly under the weather, the long weekend having taken its toll, some so dazed that while they managed to get rid of the heels and little black numbers, they forgot to don their full uniforms.  The sight of the squat guys rather stunned them: what kind of biker bar is this, I mean, like, where are their eyes at, and the drool, yucch?  For the Dwarf part, the incomplete garb of the Girls flustered them no end.  However, being gentlemen, they were unwilling to step beyond the bounds of propriety.  So the game went:  Dwarf softblock; a girl swoons - often stunned, occasionally (10 or so times) having to be given smelling salts in the ko box.  Fewer girls, but enough.  A score for each side by staggering, dazed participants.  The Dwarfs managed to recover from their infatuation and good manners to a degree, and had the chance for a winning try in the closing moments, but once again, the sight of one of the lithe catchers dancing by herself minus little black and oops, down the runner went, tripping over his own feet.  Overall, a fairly peaceful if bewildering event for the befuddled team members of both sides, with no casualties.

Karak Hirn Tigers (Dwarf/Daryl) vs Girls' Night Out (Amazon/Greg) 1-1 (0-0)
  

Norty Norse (Norse/Dan) vs Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian)

A mere 11,000 fans were brave enough to face the dangers of eternal damnation that come with attending a Rotters match this Monday... and over half of those had already been touched by Nurgle. Rottenham Clotspews opponents, the Norty Norse, came well prepared, however... large kegs filled with disinfectant potions were seen to be carried into stadium in preparation for the match. Although some sources claim they were simply the pre-match ale rations for the Norse players.

As the match went underway with the Rotters opting to take the first kick, the weather looked as though it might turn, but it was nothing more than a gust of wind.
Norty Norse calmly collected the ball and began putting the hurt on the diseased ones. The Werewolfs took the flanks supported by Blitzers, thinning out the line in the centre for the breakthrough that was about to follow.
Rottenham had at least two good opportunities to take down the ball carrier as he strolled up the middle of the pitch, but both ended in failure, resulting in plenty of defenders being face down on the pitch or in the KO'd bin. The Norse didn't waste any time, sprinting through the gap as the opportunity presented itself and scoring the opening TD shortly after.
This gave Clotspew the opportunity to strike back before halftime, but things went from bad to worse for the Rotters. Poor results in the blocking game put the now-attackers under pressure again, and some desperate attempts to get players into scoring range resulted in yet more Rotters on their faces and the ball bouncing around loosely until the halftime whistle.

At halftime it became apparent that Norse had been very norty indeed and had played the entire first half with an extra player on the team. There were even 12 players on the pitch at the start of the match, but neither match officials nor the other players seemed to notice until it was too late.

Naturally, Rottenham were pretty eager to even the score now... in more ways than one. Things really didn't get any better for the followers of Nurgle, though, as they failed to reach the ball with the Pestigor, who fall flat on his face... onto the ball.
A large melee around the ball ensued and eventually the Norse came up with it once more. The Werewolf ran off toward the endzone, but stalled just before the line, so the fans threw a rock at one of the Norse linemen and stunned him. Moments later, not keen to risk another rock being thrown at one of his team mates (or indeed himself), the Werewolf stepped over the line for a 2-0 lead with about half of the second spell left to play.
A last attempt by Rottenham to finally get on the scoreboard ended much in the same way as the previous one. Only that the Norse ran out of time before they could score their third TD of the game.

Norty Norse (Norse/Dan) vs Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) 2-0 (1-1)



The Virile Vikings (Norse - Nathan) Vs The Warhawks (Woood Elves - Mark)
TD: 4-0
CAS: 7-0
 
Ubiquitous Block on the Norse players and the fact that Mark's remaining wardancer was KO'd for most of the game didn't help much. The cumulative effect of CAS's and KO's just took their toil on the Warhawks who were eventually overwhlemed by sheer strength of numbers. Luckily, there was only two serious injuries, a MNG and -1MA, both on lineman.


Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian) vs Drakenburg Demons (Vampire/Nick)

Following (quite obviously) disappointing performances from both the Bruisers and the Demons in their opening matches last week, nobody seemed particularly interested in seeing these two teams face off against each other. The result was the lowest gate ever recorded in ABBF history. So low, in fact, that only 6,000 managed to fit through it before the game got underway.
Those fans that got in made their presence felt right from the start, invading the pitch just as the Bruisers were awaiting the Vampire's kick-off. A Thrall went down on his face, giving the Bruisers a leg up from the outset. What followed was a text-book running play during which the Grünburg players severely maimed the defenders. KOs and injuries were mounting for the defenders and it wasn't long before the Bruisers scored the opening TD.

With plenty of time for an equaliser before halftime, the Demons set up for a play down their left flank. But the Bruisers had read the situation well and repositioned their defensive line accordingly. The Vampires went for it anyway and one of them even got the ball through a small gap with the support of a Thrall. Grünburg's defenders, however, simply overwhelmed the would-be scorer with superior numbers and knocked the ball loose. With a Blitzer close to the Demons' endzone, it was only a failed pick-up from Grünburg's Thrower that prevented a second TD for the Humans before halftime.

The restart after the break saw Drakenburg receive the kick-off from the Bruisers, and they set up to have another go at the play from just before. Once again, defenders were onto them and reorganised themselves to contain the threat. To their surprise however, the Demons' receivers came through on the other side this time. All the Bruiser could do was to mark the Vampire and Thrall, which proved to be not enough. The Vampire in the Demons' backfield fired off a beautiful pass, the Vampire marked by two of the Bruisers caught it without even breaking a sweat and then proceeded to Blitz his way free and into the endzone... all without a re-roll.

This left Grünburg with most of the half go out in front again. The crowd still wasn't happy with how things went and got the Ref.
The Bruisers continued the way they had started the match and it really seemed as if the Demon's armour was made out of paper... almost everyone who went down was either stunned, KO'd or injured. One Thrall was so badly mauled that he had to be taken in by the Healers Guild.
As the defenders' resistance faltered ever more quickly, the Bruisers missed an opportunity to run the ball over the line, and promptly had a rock thrown at them which badly hurt a Lineman. Not taking the chance again, they took the TD instead and there was still time left for the Drakenburg to tie the match.

Grünburg's extra coaching session had paid off, however, and things simply didn't pick up for the Demons. A missed pass between two of the Vampires landed in the open, from where the Bruisers quickly recycled and tried for a for a third TD. Some desperate defending from the Vamps managed to knock the ball loose just before the endzone and then get it all the way back into the Bruisers' half.
The Humans still had a chance and recovered the ball once more. They set up a passing play to score, but the final pass was intercepted by a Drakenburg Thrall and that was the end of the match.

Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian) vs Drakenburg Demons (Vampire/Nick) 2-1 (4-1) 1 killed


Road Rage (Halfling/Kyle) vs Wolfdregil (Norse/David) 2-2 (2-4) 1 killed
Unfortunately, no report from this game, tho it looked an exciting one.

Norty Norse (Norse/Dan) vs Malekith's Malice (Dark Elf/DanD) 2-2 (3-1) 1 killed
Likewise.

Christian Schwager Commissioner and Season Co-convenor
David Cleverely Season Co-convenor
Greg Hagg  News Editor

[schwager]

Welcome Sports Fans!

A record nine games played this week, 3 on Sunday and 6 on Monday!
There are now 17 teams in the league with an 18th due to start next week.  So much for a gentle season:  the deaths keep coming, with 10 dead, 95 cas in 3 weeks!  The Norse teams are doing most of the damage and occupy most of the top places.  A cabal of elves is sending a delegation of hot 'zons to peruse this problem with Nuffle in their inimitable fashion.  The Vampires have been attending group rehab meetings, trying to get rid of their bloodlust, but it's not working.  Their coach is looking to letting them loose on all & sundry, not just their own thralls.  Beware.  

Those regulars who have been irregular this season, it's a great season and we look forward to seeing you again shortly, either at City Guard or Manor House, or both!

Here's a hint for new players or those returning after a long absence:  the best way to improve fast is to play a couple talk-through informals with some of the experienced players in the club - it's what the editor did and learned heaps from Chris B, Christian and Paul Deacon (however with a certain degree of senility, the editor's struggling to remember) -  everyone is most happy to help out.  Also, http://fumbbl.com/help:  has full play-throughs of all games of the best players in the world, plus strategies for each of the races (just new, in LRB6). The other on-line sites are useful.

http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/results/current.html

Now the reports:


Girl's Night Out (Amazon/Greg) vs Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian)

It helped that before this game, the hot Donnette (Bookkeeping Supervisor) paid a most cordial visit to Nuffle.  There were to be 8 double skulls in this game, 5 to the humans, all in key situations, and a double double sk with the game in balance.  Girls were pretty (&) stunned coming on the pitch to find such hunks - sure beat the squats of previous game.  So stunned they forgot to move at the kickoff, and the humans blitzed.  Fortunately, despite her desire to do otherwise, Hannah (Foreclosure Technician) managed to stand up and prevent the boys from coming in.  Still, it was a struggle, and took most of the half to move the ball in for a score.  Second half, the Bruisers got the ball, and the Girls, once again panting rather too hard to think clearly, managed to leave a huge gap in the centre.  Luckily, it turned out to be an unintended trap, as the Girls rushed the boys from all sides, screaming and tearing at uniforms.  Bruisers, thinking they were rock stars, panicked and lost the ball.  Nobody could pick it up for a long while, but then it bounced beautifully for the boys who scored.   Enough time for a Girls score, but wasn't to be. A misogynist rock knocked down the passer, a  great kick to the sideline, a blitz and the boys' blitzer was next to the ball.  Girls shoved him onto the ball which went into the crowd.  Someone there had a great arm and threw it right to the endzone.  Girls tried to protect but fell over, then in came the blitzer for the winning score.  Oops, fell onto the ball which went into the crowd.  Nice throw back to the Girls, who could win with a pick up pass and hand off,  but Natalie (Cashier) discovered a tear in a vital spot in her uniform, and lost concentration and the ball, ending the game.

1-1  2-1  no deaths.
After the game, the Bruisers coach caught the star Bruiser blitzer in a state of some disarray in the Girls' bus.  He returned reluctantly to his own team.


Lesbian Lizards (Lizardman/Paul) vs Road Rage (Halfling/Kyle)

The game was a desperate scramble for the ball, with halflings spending more time in the air than on the ground.
The crowd was full of halfings who politely dusted off every player who joined them returning all to the reserves with a huge pie.

Lesbian Lizards (Lizardman/Paul) vs Road Rage (Halfling/Kyle) 2-0 (1-2)


TTSSC (Human/Murray) vs Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian)

Nurgle's Rot returned to the pitch once more this Monday evening, as Rottenham Clotspew took on The Travelling Salesmen's Social Club, in front of 16,000 evenly spread fans. TTSSC were aided by a couple of potions, giving one of their Blitzers Sure Feet and one of their Throwers +1AG for the match.

After winning the coin toss, Rottenham chose to begin the match on defence and started things off with a very high kick. The Salesmen's Thrower had plenty of time to get under the ball and calmly plucked it out of the air. The Humans set themselves up for a drive down the middle of the pitch and managed to kill a Rotter in the ensuing melee. Things looked good for TTSSC, but Rottenham was not so easily out-muscled and firmly held the line. Quickly running out of options, the Humans spotted a small gap in the defensive line and sent a lone Thrower through with the ball. Said Thrower was promptly sacked by two Rotters and KO'd leaving the ball at the feet of the diseased ones.
TTSSC managed to get numbers to the ball, but so did Rottenham... and surprisingly quickly at that, even though the Beast of Nurgle tripped and made a horrible mess, as it tried to reach the action. The Humans simply couldn't get the ball free and it bounced from one player to the next until it ended up in the hands of an unsuspecting Nurgle Warrior. But time was up and so the first half ended without a score.

After the break, Rottenham, being a player down, set up to receive the Humans' kick. The TTSSC fans were cheering as things got underway, giving their team a boost in morale and ability, after a frustrating first half.
However, it was Rottenham who drew first blood in the second spell, Badly Hurting a Human Lineman and setting up a cage in the centre of the pitch. Relentlessly, the defenders threw themselves at Nurgle's followers, ignoring all dangers of contracting the dreaded Rot. Their desperate defensive efforts paid off, and when Rottenham tried to swing around the flank with the ball, the Humans managed to get a shot at the ball carrier and knocked him down. Moments later, a Human Lineman, as well as the ball went into the crowd. The ball was thrown back into TTSSC's backfield, but the player was badly beaten up and had to sit out the rest of the match.
This opened things up once more for the Rotters, who managed to get the Beast and a Nurgle Warrior next to the ball. But time was running low at this stage and, despite their best efforts, Rottenham failed to get any of their players into scoring range before the match ended.
Thus, the match ended in a nil all draw... accompanied by much booing and hissing from the stands.

TTSSC (Human/Murray) vs Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) 0-0 (1-2)


Norty Norse vs Prancers
 
'Twas brillig and the slithy toves did gyre and gimble in the wade.
 
Who am I kidding. Nathan had obviously defecated into Nuffle's teapot recently, so Nuffle returned the favour. Despite having one +AG potion and a ring-in halfing from the apothecaried Pool, the elves decided to capitulate from the get-go. Equally, the Norse were not in a mood to be trifled with.
 
Opting to receive, the muscled ones picked up the ball, carried it up towards the LoS whilst bashing the snot out of the hairdos. The sprites put up a valiant show of dodging around and almost stalled the Norse advance, forcing them first left, then right, but by the end of Turn 4, one elf was Badly Hurt, and 2 were KOd.
 
This early theme continued with the Norse running in their first TD and generally bashing the faecal matter out of the unfortunate pantywaisters. With little success from the cold sponge, the elves were forced to assemble for their return effort 2 players down. Failing to protect the ball against no less than four frenzied players, the holes started appearing. Depsite the appearance of no less a personage than Vidal Sassoon, the hairdos continued to suffer at the hands (make that fists) of the block-ridden vikings.
 
The Norse coach was actually embarrassed that his team was making such an effort to rid the pitch of the tree-huggers, repeatedly asking the elven coach if he would like to concede to protect the remnants of his team. But nay, nay and thrice nay. The teapot-despoiler refused to honourably quit, preferring to see one of his linelves killed (hairspray can exploded), two miss next game (nasty back-combing incidents) and five more badly hurt (their feelings mostly, although one broke a nail).
 
Final score was 3-0 to the Norse ones, 8-0 in casualties with the Norse earning a grand total of 31 SPPs.
 
As a final bucket of salt into the wound, the dead elf was awarded their MVP.
 
Rematch anyone?


Karak Hirn Tigers (Dwarf/Daryl) vs Lesbian Lizards (Lizardman/Paul)

Despite a couple of golden chances, the Lizards could not stop the Dwarfs from making some completely ridiculous dodges to catch 2 different ball carriers in the space of two turns before heaving the ball down the other end of the field to protect the draw.

Karak Hirn Tigers (Dwarf/Daryl) vs Lesbian Lizards (Lizardman/Paul) 1-1 (4-1)


Drakenburg Demons vs Malekiths Malice

With both teams fielding several journeyman for the match, the respective coaches weren't expecting much from this match. Nuffle however decided that the Demons could have all the luck they liked this match. Virtually unable to sack each others ball-carriers, the Vampires relied on some very unlucky catches and hand-offs from the Dark Elves to seal this match. The Demons also decided to feast on the thralls this game, a lot of bloodlust evident in this match!

Final Score: Vampires 4-2 [2-1] Dark Elves


Wolfdregil (Norse/David) vs Ponytail Prancers (Elf/Nathan)

On a fine day 20,000 fans  (10K for each team). The Ponytail Prancers (pro elf) received 50K of inducement  to play the Wolfdregil (Norse) and choose to take a  potion which resulted in one player spending the first half in the KO bin. The Elves then lost the kick off roll and choose to reroll, wining and deciding to receive. The Elves received the ball, and their fans promptly, as if on cue, routed onto the pitch. This saw 3 Norse and two elves face down on the pitch. The elves then started a midfield drive into the Norse half. The Norse with three men down scrambled to contain the Elves and stop the 2 turn touchdown. Turn 2 saw the elves try to shake free but elf luck saw the last dodge end in a tripped ball carrier, turnover and ball free. The Norse were then able recover the ball and break away putting a screen between them and the elves. This resulted in a turn 4 TD for the Norse.
 
The Norse kick off again and this time got a perfect defence on the Elves. The elves were unable to penetrate the Norse line and had to fall back to protect the ball. The Norse were then able to press the elves into their half. Two turns of relenting pressure saw the elf ball carrier sacked and the Norse TD in turn 8.
 
Second half saw the Norse receive and begin a 3 turn drive to TD which left 4 Elves KO’ed and 1 CAS. The elves then received with 6 players. The Norse were pushing them hard but the elves nearly broke away to score. Disparate defence saw the ball carrier sacked and the Norse scramble for a last TD in turn 16 but drop the handoff.Norty Norse vs Nathan's Elves.


Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg) vs Ponytail Prancers (Elf/Nathan)

The arrogant ones entered the pitch against the plebeian pro elves, applied finishing touches of make-up, and then proceeded to swift the Prancers to a standstill.  Prancers got the kickoff, but made little progress downfield before to begin what was a truly awe inspiring series of bad throws (and dodges, and blocks - nothing worked).  Ball loose, and a quick Toffs score, the first of three for Rotarbaen star catcher.  More misfortune, more Toff scores until it was 3-0 at half.  Second half the Prancers got their act together and had several excellent  chances, but once again, an interception by Rotarbaen led to another score, and a dropped pass by their so called nerves of steel catcher stopped another.  It didn't help either that two key pro elves - the sole blitzer (the other one was missing the game!) and a catcher went off early in the first half.  Are the Toffs over-confident:  you bet.

5-0  2-1 cas.  Nothing near a death, too much running around.


Wolfdregil (Norse/David) vs Drakenburg Demons (Vampire/Nick)

After a hard night on the town after the last win celebrations, the Wolfdregil (Norse) fronted up to the Drakenburg Demons (Vampire). The Vampires received some inducements and got themselves some of the Elf juice, and ended up with a +2 leaping dodging Vampire. Vampires also won the toss and decided to receive. So they got the ball, got a CAS and began to man handle the Norse to be able to score in turn 4. A good start but at the cost of 3 out of 4 rerolls. The Norse then started a 4 turn running play that got a TD and two CAS, both of which regenerated. Half time saw the score 1-1 and both teams still nearly at full strength.
 
Second half saw the Norse receive. Another Norse 3 turn TD from a running play that saw 4 Vampires KOed. All 4 KOed choose to stay off the field. So the Demons were going to receive the ball with 6 player on the field but it was OK as three were Vampires. Would have been OK but the Norse called Blitz and rolled it. The Vampires were set up for one side rush, they suddenly got swamped by Norse, the unmarked Norse on the LOS were able to pressure the ball carrier. Still not beyond the Vampires but then Elf luck stepped in and the “1”s started for the Blood lust, then both down for the block. The Norse were able to uncover the ball and run away for a TD.
 
Those in the Vampire KO bin saw the hungry Vampires and choose to stay in the bin. Again the Vampires started with 6 (4 Vampire, two thralls) set up for a one side rush. Again the Norse called the Blitz, and rolled it. The Vampires were out manned with Norse through their lines and pressure on the ball. Result, more hungry Vampires, bad blocking dice and a Norse bashing feast that resulted in another quick TD for the Norse.
 
With the game out of reach the Vampires got some men back for the last drive. Unable to penetrate the Norse line the Vampires settled for a Dead Norse linemen and some SPP.
 
Game ended 4-1 and 3-3 CAS to the Norse.
 
Its the nice thing about the Elf league, Elf luck.


Christian Schwager Commissioner & Season Co-Convenor
David Cleverely Season Co-Covenor
Greg Hagg  Editor and Self-abuser

[Weasel-Fierce]

Is it too late to get involved with this? Didn't realise you were doing an Elf league - might have to dust off the Atlantis Falcons!

[schwager]

It's never too late, my friend.

We're only in week 3 (of 15) and it's all pretty casual anyway. So even if you just wanna have a few games here and there, we'd love to see you on the pitch.

You can download the Elf Rules PDF from the link below...
http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/download/ABBF_elf_rules.pdf

I probably won't be able to make it to the club today, but Greg and some of the others will be there.

Cheers,
Christian

[Weasel-Fierce]

Cool, thanks Christian! Can't make it down today as I'd need to get my team out of storage first. Might try to get in for a few games soon though. Is it on tomorrow night given that it's a public holiday?

[schwager]

Yip, the pub is always open as it's attached to a hotel. So we'll definitely be there from around 5.30.

I'll look forward to reviving the old rivalry... and I'm sure I'm not the only one

[Weasel-Fierce]

What time do people usually play til? Do they get in one game or two? 5:30's too early for me on a Monday night but could be there from 7. Probably won't be there tomorrow but will try for next week. Have the rules changed much in the last 3 years or so?

[schwager]

We've been there as late as 9.30ish. There are always a few that get two games in. 7pm will be fine and if we know you're coming, we'll make sure there is someone for you to play against.

As for the rules, there have been a few changes, but only for the better... imo. You can find the latest version of the rules as a free download on the GW website:
http://www.games-workshop.com/gws/content/article.jsp?catId=cat480004a&categoryId=1100006&section=&aId=4800003

[Weasel-Fierce]

Cool, thanks. Not so sure now about next Monday as that's Superbowl day and my Packers are playing :-)

Probably need to get some blocking dice again. Are they still free with NAF membership? How would I go about getting some?

[schwager]

No problem, there's always Sundays at the CityGuard, too... yip, that's every Sunday this season.

As for the dice, I might just be able to sort something out for an old friend...

[Weasel-Fierce]

Thanks mate! Got a few teams out of storage so will re-read the rules this week.

Do you guys play every Sunday? Or just the 1st and 3rd ones as per your website? I play Heroclix every second Sunday so may have to work around that. Unfortunately couldn't find my game boards so may look into making my own board - maybe printing one on card or something.

[Weasel-Fierce]

Found a nice and appropriate game board I may try to get printed at a copy shop:



Looking forward to getting back onto the pitch!

[schwager]

Nice pitch, mate... looks even better in the flesh! It's good to have you back

Apologies for the delay, but here are the reports from week 4:

Welcome Sports Fans!

So, the soft and gentle league has come to this: 9 deaths in 8 games this week. Considering the wide spread use of apothecaries and even extra apoth rolls..... Bloodbowl rules!

Now for the game reports... and for a summary of all games played and standings check out: http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/results/current.html


Wolfdregil (Norse/David) vs Karak Hirn Tigers (Dwarf/Daryl) 3-0 (0-0)

With the prospect of Dwarf’s for their next match, The Wolfdregil team decided to have the wake before the game, this followed on from the Winning celebration from the previous game to make one long party. I now see the main problem with Norse teams, stamina and liver disease.
 
Wolfdregil won the toss and choose to receive. This followed with a 4 turn running play where the Norse managed to keep the Dwarf’s at arms, drop the ball, pick it and score. No one dead yet.
 
The Dwarfs set up for a drive and all looked good until they failed to pick up the ball. This lead to Norse rushing the “Quarterback” . Three turns of scrambled play saw one Dwarf into the crowd, no one dead and the Norse steal the ball for Turn 8 TD. The dwarf turn 8 was an attempt at completion and plenty of Biff.
 
Half time saw the Norse celebrating no CAS or deaths.
 
Second half saw the Dwarfs receive again. This time the dwarfs were able to protect the ball, and cage up. The Norse now were able to screen the cage and slow the Dwarves down. In the struggle to advance, two dwarves went into the crowd, one was KOed and the ball was knocked loose. The Norse scored in turn 15. This left two turn for the dwarves to drive for TD. This was foiled and the game finished 3-0 and 0-0 CAS.
 
Big party for the Norse.......ag ain.


Lesbian Lizards (Lizardmen/Paul) vs Black Orc Down (Orc/Nathan)

Lizards versus Orcs. Some say that it was a Battle Royale - the mighty Saurus' squaring up to the impressive bulks of the Black Orc's. Others that was a tale of Orc's playing the centuries-old game of Catch the Greased Skink. All Paul and Nathan knew was that it was none of those things. It was a bloody match racking up 3 Dead casualties - the most violent match so far. One line orc died to a failed Both Down block against a Journeyman Skink (He deserved it in that case - Nathan) and the other two were Skinks who after making an obscene amount of dodge rolls to reach the ball, both failed their GFI's and died promptly on the spot. As for the Black Orc's Vs Saurus's, it was a game of atttrition with flurries of one die blocks being hurled about, both players trusting to luck to break their opponents AV9. The ball much like the Skinks was hard to keep hold of for long on both sides, but the Orc's managed to sneak one in. It was match that could have gone either way and came down to Nuffle's Choice in the end.   0-1  (1-2)  all three cas were deaths!!!!


Wolfdregil (Norse/David) vs Foul Guys (Orc/Dale) 2-0 (3-1) 1 killed

When word came through that the next match was Orc’s, The Norse just keep drinking.... Harder. Try ... not ..to ...think .
 
The Foul guys were a new team to the league, and with the 300K inducement, had hired the Star player  Ripper , and bought a potion. The potion didn’t agree with Ripper who spent the first two drives in the KO bin.
 
Wolfdregil staggered onto the field, won the toss and choose to receive. The Norse thrower with his new skill of sure hands grabbed the ball and ran for it. The Norse game plan was simple , they are big enough, just hit ‘em. They managed to swing one flank and get free up one side of the pitch. Feeling cocky they tried to hand off the ball, dropped it, covered it, then recovered for a runaway TD to the thrower in turn 4.  The Orcs now had their turn and received the ball, picked it up but came under some pressure from the Norse. This led to an Orc  pass to a Blitzer that was inaccurate and left the ball exposed. A discussion over whose ball it was, whether a KOed player felt any pain, why didn’t that Black Orc Blitzer get back up (dead, yes it is possible) and bloody Norse got the ball again, Turn 8 TD.
Ripper now came on for a turn 8 that didn’t kill any Norse and still no completion.
 
Second half and the Orc’s were receiving. The Orc’s had worked out that if you hit the Norse ha’rd, they rest on the ground for a while, so they took their time with a rolling cage, and targeted the Ulfwereners with their big boy. This played off  with a Blitzer braking free and a pass attempted to him. This was inaccurate and led to a Norse Blitzer dropping back, picking up the ball, GFI, long pass, catch for a completion. This then led to more scrambled play around the LOS that resulted in no one scoring. Two more Orcs and one Norse were hurt in the spirited action.
 
Final score 2-0 and 3-1 CAS to the Norse.
 
Oh no not another party. Party at the Norse pub.....again.


Black Orc Down (Orc/Nathan) vs Girls' Night Out (Amazon/Greg)

14 Girls showed up for this game, each having put extra perfume on, particularly under their noses, to mask the orc odour, and also completely covered themselves with oil.  They got the kick off, and in the first ever action against this Orc rookie team, Stephanie, Accounts Receivable, put an Orc Blitzer, appropriately named Squishy, into a coffin, for an untoward remark.  The team, elated at that, then humped and ground their way downfield to a score.  Orcs tried to come back but couldn't fully protect the ball.  Girls got it, lost it, and it came loose for the Downs.  But a pick up went awesomely awry, (as did most everything else for the Downs - lots of hits, but the Girls coating of oil left them fairly invulnerable), and into the hands of Marina, Help Desk Co-ordinator, a catcher in 3 tackle zones, who dodged away for another score.  Finally the Down got their act together, and forced their way down the sideline for a compensation score.  They were lucky they held on to the ball, with all that oil over their hands.

1-2  (2-1) 1 kill, an fresh Orc blitzer for the pool.


Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) vs Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg)

League leaders Tuff Toffs bravely took on the multi-headed disease that is Rottenham Clotspew on late Sunday afternoon. As it turned out, they wouldn't stand a chance and 20,000 fans (mostly Elves) looked on in disbelief as Nuffle himself entered the pitch to lend the rotting ones a hand.

Rottenham chose to kick after winning the coin toss, and immediately chased after the ball with a Blitz! The Toffs, on the other hand, started their match with a failed Dodge... double ones on the first action. Surrounded on all side by putrescence, the Elves nevertheless managed to get a receiver into the Rotters' backfield and their Thrower was able to get the pass away. However, he failed to throw the ball safely and it was promptly intercepted by a lone Nurgle Warrior.
To make matters worse, the Toffs had opted for bio-chemical suits instead of armour for the match and that proved a fatal mistake. Several Elves fell foul of the Rotters' early blocking game and their numbers started to dwindle fast.
Halfway through the first spell, Rottenham muscled the ball over the line for an early score.

With more than enough time to get on the scoreboard, the Toffs took to the field with three players down. Rottenham kicked short and the ball landed right on the LOS and in the tackle zones on two Rotters. The Elves promptly failed to pick it out and a mid-field melee erupted, from which the not so Tuff Toffs decidedly came off second best.
The Clotspews eventually got hold of the ball and started to rumble down the field once more. The Elves defended desperately, but with more than half the team of the pitch, there was little they could do. Plus, the little they could do usually ended in a failed Dodge, GFI, or indeed, a Skull.
Thus Rottenham scored their second TD just before halftime.

After the break it was Rottenham's turn to receive. The Toffs got a few players back from the KO's bin and set up an eight man (or Elf) defence.
This proved not to be enough, as the game continued in much the same fashion as it did before the break. More Elves being KO'd, injured and killed and the Nurgles smashing their way over the line for a third TD with a quarter of the match remaining.

One more go for the Elves who, at this point, could only field six fit players... which is usually enough, but not in this match.
The diseased ones launched yet another Blitz! and managed to get a player under the ball as it landed, but he failed to catch it. Unable to get the ball free, the Elves tried to at least stop the game from becoming a total rout, albeit at the expense of more precious Elven lives.
Rottenham ran out of time before they could score another TD, but a Rotter got a completion and a skill just before the referee decided to put the Elves out of their misery and blew the final whistle.

The Rotters' MVP went to the Beast of Nurgle, who had the game of a lifetime (for a BoN that is), inflicting 2 Casualties and never failing to take an action during 16 regular turns AND 2 Blitzes! It also rolled doubles on the improvement roll and gained Block.
Line Elf Desaelin was infected with the Rot and had to sign with Rottenham. A HE Blitzer was taken in by the Healers Guild.

Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) vs Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg) 3-0 (5-0) 2 elves killed


Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg) vs Norty Norse (Norse/Dan)

After two deaths the previous game, the damaged Toffs came on to the field with a journeyman, but there to greet them was their departed and now semi-restored blitzer Boruhearth, playing as an inducement.  Toffs got the kick-off and pass/ran in a quick one.  Heat stroke then kept two players from each side off the pitch. The Toffs' kick off was majestic, pinning the Norse in their own end zone.  Nortys came out, but couldn't form a proper cage back so far, and down 3 players, and lost the ball, Rotarbaen the high elf catcher, scoring his second with a successful one die block and then collecting up the bounce and running to glory.  Norse were unable to score in the rest of the half, mainly because they were playing a players down - which they continued to do throughout the game as the only two Norse ever to have had an elf hand laid on them, ko's near the opening kick off, were so shocked, they remained in the ko box for the whole of the game.  Toffs suffered a couple cas, including their 3rd death in two games, and struggled to field a full team, but by the end, had 11 vs 10 Norse. 

Second half, and the Norse struggled down for a score, which took too long, however.  Then another Rotarbaen quickscore, his eighth in 4 games.  Then time for Norse revenge, but as had been the case throughout the game, the knockdowns were armour protected, or stun at the worst, and even the fouls failed.  Oden wept.

3-1 (0-2) Another dead high elf - a lineman.


Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian) vs Karak Hirn Tigers (Dwarf/Daryl)

The Dwarves of Karak Hirn unexpectedly made an appearance at Manor House Stadium on Monday night... and naturally they were looking for a fight. They found one, too, as they took on the Bruisers in front of 18,000 (mostly Human) fans. Against the superior Dwarves, Grünburg enlisted the help of Helmut Wolf and his trusty old Chainsaw. They also got 2 potions (both Sure Feet) and 2 cards to round out their inducements package.

As the Bruisers readied themselves to receive the kick-off, the fans threw a rock at one of the Dwarf Runners, who went face down on the ground. The Humans proceeded to punch a whole into the defensive line and slowly made their way around the flank. Soon, however, the drive became stuck as the Tigers began pouring players into the ruck. It was only a failed Block by a Dwarf and a foul with the Chainsaw that KO'd another that enabled the Bruisers to get things moving once more. They didn't waste any time and Hans Schussmann got himself into scoring range. A last ditch effort to take down the ball carrier by the now recovered Dwarf Runner remained fruitless, and the Bruisers scored the opening try with a quarter still to go in the first half.

The Humans' kick went high into the air, giving one of the Dwarf runners enough time to move under it. He failed to catch it however, and it bounced into the stands. The resulting touchback gave the ball to the other Runner and the Tigers still had a chance to score the equaliser before halftime.
The Bruisers decided to employ a stand-offish defence formation and managed to delay the Dwarves long enough until time had run out.

After some oranges for the Bruisers and some Bugman's XXXXXXX for the Tigers, both teams were eager to get things underway again. The fans were cheering as the kick went up in the air, giving the Bruisers some extra motivation for the onslaught that was sure to come. The Humans also had a nasty surprise in store for the bearded ones, as a second ball popped out from underneath the first one.
The Tigers managed to collect both balls without breaking a sweat, but protecting them would be another matter. Even though they managed to injure a Human Lineman on the first Block this half, the faster Humans were all over them and the Dwarves simply had nowhere to go. The Bruisers got hands on both Runners and managed to knock one of the balls loose, with a Blitzer ready to collect and make for the endzone. At the same time, the Tigers were able to smash aside the defenders and send through their own Runner with the other ball.
Grünburg's Blitzer made it over the line first, but his ball turned out to be the clone and it simply vanished. The Tigers' Runner wasn't gonna take his chances and went for it to get into the Bruisers' enzone... and promptly tripped over the try-line. The ball came to rest mere metres from the Humans' endzone and everyone on the pitch ran towards it as fast as they could. During the final moments of the match there was a lot of pushing and shoving, picking up and going down, and the ball bouncing all over the place. No one could get a real hold of it, though (at least not for long), and the match ended with a 1-0 win to the Bruisers... at the cost of two seriously injured Lineman, both of which picked up Niggling Injuries.

Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian) vs Karak Hirn Tigers (Dwarf/Daryl) 1-0 (0-2)


Christian Schwager Commissioner Season Co-convenor
David Cleverely Season Co-covenor
Greg Hagg Editor and Complainer

[Weasel-Fierce]

Thanks, Chrsitian. Just made a few more finishing touches to the board with a toothpick locking system to keep the board secure - works like a charm!

Don't forget, for anyone interested I'm doing a Shadowforge order soon so let me know if you want to split shipping.

[schwager]

Welcome Sports Fans

Nine more games played and at last, a week where scores outnumbered casualties (well, not quite, but in comparison...) and only two died!
Plus the welcome return of one of the legendary ABBF teams, the Atlantis Falcons.  All good. 'Cept for those Norse, who continue to dominate the league.  Fortunately there are two High Elf teams now to break it a bit, plus the very successful and much maligned Nurgle, leftovers from our previous leagues, and doing really well.  Sic em on the Norse!

One note, one of our sponsors, Shadowforge, http://www.shadowforge.com.au/, makes excellent female miniatures and has some new stock.  If you're interested in buying some, Regan (see above) is sending in an order soon, so get in touch with him to share postage.

Now for the game reports:  and check out current results on line at http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/results/current.html. Unfortunately, only reports for 5 games:  remember, if you win, or draw and are up in casualties, you should submit a report - can be very brief.


Atlantis Falcons (High Elf/Regan) vs Karak Hirn Tigers (Dwarf/Daryl)

After a long hiatus, the crowds at the Jorja Dome gave the returning home team a welcome they wouldn't soon forget. After wandering the wastelands for four years, the Atlantis Falcons hit the pitch with a mix of trepidation and excitement.

After winning the toss, the Tigers went on the attack. The Dwarfs swiftly set about their usual gameplan, making their way up the pitch and hitting anything that moved. Though effective, none of the damage was permanent. 6 Falcons were sent to the KO bin, forcing Head Coach Jan Mora to regret the decision not to enlist the help of the Bloodweiser Babes. After a slow, steady drive the Tigers scored the opening touchdown on their 5th turn, leaving the Elves with a hard task – to equalise with only 7 players on the pitch. A valiant effort from the ladies proved fruitless, however, meaning the Dwarfs led 1-0 at halftime.

After a rousing halftime pep talk, the girls hit the pitch with 10 players as more roused from their slumbers. After setting up a pocket, the Falcons worked their way into striking distance and Lineman Karen Shaffer crossed the line to equalise. The Tigers set up their offense, hopeful they would have enough time to put the final nail in the coffin. But the clock was running low and the Dwarfs' lumbering offense wasn't designed for quick strikes. After breaking free of his protection, a Dwarf Runner made a dash for the endzone. The Falcons' response was quick and decisive. A double team Blitz sacked the ball carrier and Quarterback Michelle Vick leapt up off the turf and scooped the ball up. She just needed to complete a long pass into the expectant arms of Wide Receiver Agnes Crumpler. With a flourish, the pass was completed and Agnes sped downfield with impunity, proving you should never keep a Catcher unmarked.

And so, a triumphant return to the beautiful game for the lovely ladies as they bested the stunties 2-1 (0-2 casualties).


Doomtown Brats (Dark Elf/Richard) vs Girls' Night Out (Amazon/Greg)

The girls were really looking forward to their night out with the baad boys, all that leather and black, ooowaaa.  Boys got the kick off and immediately, one of the Girls' boyfriends threw a rock, permanently crippling a lineelf.  Girls also got hot and heavy with another lineelf, and he succumbed to exhaustion, having to leave badly 'hurt'. They then pursued another boy into the crowd, but that went smoothly enough and he returned when he recovered his nerve.  All this while ignoring the ball, which the Brats took in for an easy score.  Girls then got the kick off, but a precipitous break down field, not sufficiently covered, ball loose, elf upon it; and a pass past the distracted Girls' defenders and another score.  Still time for a Girls' reply, but wasn't to happen.

Second half, Girls got the kickoff, dashed in a quick and unexpected double gfi score from an unmarked linewoman, Mary-Louise, Loss Control Rep.  Then the smooth bad boys took the ball down the right sideline for what looked like a sure score, but heroic gfi's and a pow, loose ball, crowd throw right down to the Elf goal line.  But best they could do was get a blitzer down to pick it up - and he couldn't go any further.  Tania, blitzer, smacked him over too, and the Girls had the ball.  A lucky foul to keep the blitzer down, and then a run, all sorts of gfis, hand off, run again, more gfis, completed pass and score - full length of the field.  The smouldering boys were down to 8 now, and couldn't get anyone open, mainly because their leaper fell on a 1.  They coughed up the ball, and Girls were within a short pass of a win, but Debra, Warehouse Assistant, found herself panting too hard to actually pick up the ball, lodged as it was right next to a downed but glittering dark boy.  And so the game ended.

2-2 (2-3) no deaths (but some of the Brats require an extra game to recover from the attentions of the over-amourous Girls)


Lesbian Lizards (Lizardman/Paul) vs Warhawks (Wood Elf/Marc)

On a fine day the Lizard fans turned out in bigger numbers to see their team take on the wounded Warhawks. For this game the ‘Hawks had the assistance of their fallen comrade the wardancer Loec and the rather confused Norseman Thorsonson. The Lizards won the toss and opted to receive, running in a quick touchdown. In retaliation one of the ‘Hawks linemen blatantly fouled a downed lizard (double 6, double 6) but only badly wounded the walking handbag. The two assisting elves were overlooked. The elves received and a wardancer ran the ball in when the Kroxigor froze on a blitz. The second half saw the elves score a quick touchdown while whitling down the Lizards numbers. The elves then managed to keep the lizards down long enough to score a third time, helped in part by a groggy Kroxigor that struggled to stand up.

Final score 3:1 to the Warhawks (2:1 on casualties) 25,000 fans


Drakenburg Demons (Vampire/Nick) vs Foul Guys (Orc/Dale)

For the first time since their opening match the Demons managed to start a match without any journeymen, but the Foul Guys had one propping up their roster. Receiving on the opening kick-off, the Demons nearly flubbed their 2-turn score attempt with bad GFI rolls, but with the Orcs luck being the same, they managed it on the 3rd turn. What followed was 13 turn of both sides being unable to string anything together - both sides stole and lost the ball multiple times. The real difference was the Orcs being unable to hurt any of the Demons thrall's... at all! The Demons finally scored a 2nd TD near the end of the 2nd half, leaving 2 turns to play on both sides. The only players out was a thrall eaten by a vampire, and a Orc Blitzer who was MNG'd by a crowd thrown rock! The final 2-turns were lopsided as the Vampires made every roll they needed, stole the ball and scored as the last play of the game.

Summary:
Both sides dealt with atrocious luck all game, the major difference being, one would expect the vampires to have a hard time getting through the Orcs armor... but wouldn't expect the thralls to stand up so strong all game long!

Final Score: Vampires 3-0 (1-1) Orcs


Lesbian Lizards (Lizardpersons/Paul) vs Girls' Night Out (Amazons/Greg)

The Girls entered the field, quite keen on gathering material for new handbags, shoes and belts, (to say nothing of the more secretive garments) from the bodies of their opponents, but found that the opponents were female too, and solidarity being such... Anyway, they got the kick-off at Lizards' option, and ran/passed up the left to a quick score.  Lizards replied in a hurry as well.  Another score, this one sweated out, as KOs took effect and the Girls' numbers declined.   Lizards tried for an equalizer just before half, but Tania, Administrative Assistant's fantastic dodge into 2 zones and into the crowd went the skink ball carrier.  Half ended.

Second half, Lizards got the ball and protected their skinks beautifully yet again while running in a quick one.  Girls down a couple, and some careless play, lost ball and a good bounce to the ag4 skink & zippy, in it went for the lead.  Then the girls pulled out some delicate long passing etc, with the usual lot of gfis and managed to score just before the final whistle.  

3-3 (4-1) no deaths, nor anything approaching that.


More results (sadly no reports) from week 5:

Lesbian Lizards (Lizardman/Paul) vs Wolfdregil (Norse/David) 0-1 (2-3)
Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian) vs Lesbian Lizards (Lizardman/Paul) 1-3 (2-1) 1 killed
TTSSC (Human/Murray) vs Norty Norse (Norse/Dan) 0-2 (1-5)
Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) vs Wolfdregil (Norse/David) 1-1 (2-3) 1 killed

[schwager]

Welcome Sports Fans!

Another 8 games, and the Norse continue their climb to Valhalla unfortunately, especially for High Elves, who lost another couple players to death and then facial reconstruction . Lots of great players available for the good guys now as inducement.  Even if at times, they've proved rather reluctant to play.
 
http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/results/current.html

And here are the gory details...
 
The Ponytail Prancers (Nathan - Pro Elf) Vs Lesbian Lizards (Paul - Lizardmen)
TD: 3 - 1
CAS: 1 - 0
 
An early Turn 1 blitz by the Lizards followed by an amazing leaping Elf Catcher led to an early Turn 2 touchdown for the Prancers. This was quickly followed up by a cheeky Skink taking advantage of gaping hole in the Elf line to sneak the ball through on a Sprint run (3 GFI's). All this shennigans resulted in a fair amount of confusion and head scratching for both coaches who struggled to remember what turns they should each be on. Suffice it to say, after much cogitation, it was the Lizards' Turn 3 and the score was tied 1 all. For most of the game, the struggle for the ball bounded back and forth before the Prancers scored again towards the end of the first half.
Towards the end of second half, the Prancers had pulled out another TD and one of the Lizards' Skinks failed a dodge roll resulting in an  -1MA injury. In summary, a fast game with few casualties.

 
Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian) vs Atlantis Falcons (High Elf/Regan)
 
Old rivalries were revived once more last Sunday, when league veterans the Grünburg Bruisers took on the newly returned lovely ladies that are the Atlantis Falcons, in what can only be described as a game of two (very distinctive) halves.
The weather was nice and thus 15,000 Elven fans (10,000 Human fans) flocked to the stands... and they were feeling all loved up!
Atlantis won the toss and opted to receive. As soon as the match got underway, the fans stormed the pitch, leaving 8 Bruisers and 2 Falcons stunned from all the exhaustion.
Despite some desperate defending from the remaining Humans, this led to a quick first score for the Elves and some bruised egos for the Bruisers' players.

As the Falcons kicked the ball to Grünburg to start the next drive, the fans stormed the pitch... again! This time 5 Humans went face down and no Elves.
This put some serious pressure on the Bruisers' first offensive drive. All their Thrower could do was to retreat into their own backfield with the ball until the other players had recovered.
For a brief moment, things started to look up for the attackers and they managed to get a loose cage moving up their left flank. Eventually however, the Elves swarmed all over them and the ball carrier was sacked.
Some great positioning play by the Elves made short work of any efforts by the Bruisers to recover the ball and it was 2-0 to the Falcons.

There was one more chance to get on the scoreboard for the Bruisers before half-time. Everyone was very tense at the kick-off, but the fans were only cheering this time, granting the Falcons another re-roll.
Grünburg set up a passing play, with three potential receivers in the Falcons' backfield. All of them were well-marked, but an untimely self-destruct play by the Elves left one of the Bruisers' Blitzers in a great scoring position. The textbook play went off without a hitch and Grünburg got themselves back into the game right at the half-time whistle.

After break a riot broke out in the stands and the match finally re-started in turn 2, with the Falcons kicking the ball to the Bruisers once more.
From the outset, things took a very different turn, as the Elven defenders started to get carried off the pitch in droves. Resistance started to falter fast, but the Bruisers took their time. Slowly marching the ball up the pitch, trying to take out as many Flacons as possibly along the way.
Mere metres from the endzone, however, a fancy passing play resulted in a fumble, and the Bruisers' inevitable equaliser was delayed... just long enough to keep the match to a 2-2 draw.

There was a last-minute chance for the Falcons to take the match, but with only three fit players on the pitch, it was always a long shot. As such, the threat was quickly neutralised and there was only a single Elf left standing when the referee blew the final whistle.

Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian) vs Atlantis Falcons (High Elf/Regan) 2-2 (4-0) 2 killed

 
Doomtown Brats (Dark Elf/Richard) vs Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg)
 
This was to be a battle between good and evil, both sides wanting to score heaps, and the evil guys hoping to cripple the Toffs.  Toffs got the kick-off, and got their catchers into a position for an easy score, one unmarked.  Pass dropped, and picked up by the bad boys.  A superb dodge into a cage, and ball loose again.  And so forth.  Eventually the Toff thrower got it and tried to throw to another semifree catcher, but this time fumbled. Ball loose, grabbed up by the evil ones.  & this time, a score!.  The Toffs were angered by all this stuff, and managed to get a couple of the evil players off the field, especially the vastly skilled 200k star player who sulked heavily and remained in the KO box for the whole game.  Toffs scored a quick one around the half.
Second half, and with low numbers, the Toffs managed to break the cage again, but the Brats gathered in the ball and made a break down the right sideline.  Desparate defense made it difficult, but the DE ag 5 blitzer made it to the endzone, only requiring a short pass to score.  Ones again (they were very frequent for both sides) and the blitzer dropped an accurate pass in the end zone.  Rodiat, the Toff 5ag lineman grabbed it in a tackle zone, ran down the sideline gfi'ing twice to pass to the passer, who then dashed up and handed it to the catcher in the process losing their skilled catcher Rotarbean, who dodged, with dodge skill, to his own death, the forth h elf death in 3 games.  Nanudart catcher scored.  Still time for a tying score, and with 4 receivers positioned well, the Dark Elf lineman given a minor hand-off chore managed to fail it, and so the game ended
 
 
Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg) vs Wodreigil (Norse/David)
 
The Tuff toffs were recovering from a beating, Two Journeymen were covering for a dead catcher, and a blitzer and two linemen killed in the 3 previous games. The Toffs staggered into this next match 400 K below the Wolfdregil, who also staggered into the match, but from totally different causes, alcohol poisoning.
 
The inducements were spent on two of the top Star players, 4 Str human Blitzer, and the HE Blitzer, 3 potions, and a Budweiser baby. The potions were very effective, a leap, a catch, and a thrower in the KO bin for most of the match. Very effective for both teams.
 
The Toffs won the toss and received. In typical elf fashion, pushed their way into the Norse half and keep the ball safe. The Norse covered the drive with their usual frenzied play. The elf’s while surprised at the aggression, just danced to set up a receiver in the end zone, hand off, and accurate pass ........too drop it , ball on the ground. Who knew Toffs could swear like that. Norse Blitzed the receiver into the crowd, picked up the ball and began a 4 turn drive to TD on turn 7.
 
The Toffs once they had reorganised were set for up to try a 1 turn TD. It would have worked but for the riot that ended the half.
 
Second half saw the Norse receive and drive for a three turn TD, the only surprise was a leaping Blitzer knocking down the ball carrier who was in a cage. 2-0
 
The Elf’s then produced a classic 2 turn TD  to make it 2-1.
The Norse now had 2 turns to score again. Receiving the ball and caging up didn’t stop the ball carrier get blitzed, knock over  and the elves narrowly missing a ball pick up (to score). The Norse then scrambled to pickup and pass the ball to a runner who got away for a TD in turn 16.
 
3-1 TD  1-0 Cass (dodging elf face plant) that was notable for the elves by the number of  “1”’s celebrated, and the Norse for having to use only one re roll in the whole game, in turn 16.

[schwager]

Welcome Sports Fans!

Lucky 7 indeed.  Not a single death this week.  Nice for some, particularly High Elves, who have been death prone so far.  ABBF had a good presence at Battle Cry, thanks Battle Cry, and some tough games played there with interested spectators.  Eleven games in all during the week.  The cursed Norse continue to dominate; check it out - armour 7 and only one Norse on the Invalids List (23 dead guys walking/playing at present) despite armour 7.  Hmmmmm what's the connection between Odin and Nuffle?  Worse news: watch out for the Vampires!

http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/results/current.html

A few game reports:

Drakenburg Demons (Vampire/Nick) vs Altdorf Athletic (Human/Nathan) 3-0 (1-3)

The Demons lined up against an Athletic squad fielding some mercenary help for the match. The Vampires received off the kick-off and despite a hiccup or two managed to get the early score in. The Demons defended aggressively for the rest of the half and prevented Athletic from getting the ball near the TD line.
Stealing the ball against the play during the start of the 2nd the Vampires eventually managed to take the ball across leaving 2 turns to play in the match. With a great kick-off and some nuffle-blessed rolling they managed a 2-turn steal and score to end the match 3-0.


Drakenburg Demons (Vampire/Nick) vs Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) 3-0 (0-3)

Lining up against Clotspew the Demons hired Helmut Wolf and his trusty chainsaw as well as a tasty potion (+AG!). Receiving the ball, the Demons managed a 3-turn TD. Still not fielding the chainsaw, the Demons spent the rest of the half valiantly holding off the Rottenham offensive - and succeeded! With great plans for tearing the Rotters apart with their secret weapon the Vampires found themselves Blitzing! with the ball landing in a fantastic position. Getting a star Vamp under the ball with a little support led to a huge tussle in the middle of the pitch and the Demons requiring their blitz every turn to clear around the ball - The chainsaw was only used once!. Scoring mid-half, a riot on the the next kick-off saw only 3 turns left in the half for the Rotters to score. Playing expansively, this left a gap which the nuffle-blessed Vampires took full advantage of to score on the final turn 3-0.


Girl's Night Out (Amazon/Greg) vs Ponytail Prancers (Elf/Nathan)

Make-up and little black numbers - and that was only the Elves.  Elves got the kick-off and ran into a problem getting open space.  Bit of shovey hissey tho, and eventually they prevailed.  Zons countered with a quicker try.  Second half, and the Prancers blitzed the kick-off effectively.  In the ensuing melee, they took advantage of Zon errors (the Friday night had been too hard on the Girls, and they weren't thinking properly) and scored.  Girls still had time but failed the counter.

1-2 (0-1)


Foul Guys (Orc/Dale) vs Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg)

A game blighted by underhand and outright cheating.  Apparently the Elf Coach Whine thought the Ugly Green Ones would be a nightmare, so lined up 12 elves at the kickoff.  This didn't help much, as the Guys relined up in defence, then the elf passer threw a wobbly which bounced fantastically for the Guys.  Who mistakenly took off down the field.  Couple elf dodges, ball knocked loose, elf pick up.  But by this time, elves were tied in knots and dodging became difficult.  A fumbled pass and another orc pick-up.  Another knock over, and this time the elves managed to get the ball downfield (possibly with the help of the 12th man) to their reliable catcher, who scored as time was running out.  At the ensuing kickoff, it became obvious that the elves had a member of the crowd on their team, who was summarily ejected, and lost his season pass.  Second half and on came the chain saw, down went a blitzer.  But the elves had swarmed the orc backfield on the kickoff, forcing a hurried and seemingly safe throw to a cage.  Unfortunately for the Guys, the ball bounced as if magnetised (rumour has it, it was), right to an elf blitzer who handed off to Hiherset, a catcher, for a quick score, which saw the chain saw off.  Plenty of time left, and so the refs decided to allow a 12th orc onto the field for the remainder of the game.  Orcs took the ball down field quickly, care of a fine pass and catch to a blocking black orc who took it down nearly to the goal line.  Again, a desperate successful block, then a dropped elf pick-up.  Dropped orc pick-up.  Dropped elf pick-up. Dropped orc pick-up.  Then a successful orc pick up and score.  But maybe too late?  No, the ensuing kick-off was a blitz, and sure enough an orc blitzer gathered it in, in sight of the end zone.  But yet another successful elf one die block, and down he went, and with him, hopes of a well deserved draw.  During the closing minutes of the game, the orcs had finally succeeded in bashing up the Toffs, getting 3 of their 4 cas, including 2 game missers.  But in retrospect, the orcs regretted not living up to their name and fouling more generously at the outset.


1-2 (4-0) no deaths


Atlantis Falcons (High Elf/Regan) vs Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg)

Crowd was fairly even, but the pre-game make-up showdown between these two teams eventually got to the elven crowd, who subsequently rioted before the opening kick-off.  When play eventually got underway, the Falcons took the kick-off into a mid-field cage with no receivers in scoring position.  The Toffs reckoned that was a mistake and swarmed in, but the Falcons held their cool and scored at the end of the first quarter.  Toffs struck back with a classic two turner.  Falcons couldn't reply.  Second half, new makeup, and the Toffs took the kick-off, scoring another two turner.  Falcons, as they had throughout the game, took ones and skulls to a new level, and at this stage, after finally picking up and caging, got blitzed by the ag5 dodging Toff lineman, and with the ball dislodged, the Toffs scooped it up and scored again.  Then another series of Falcons' bumbles and falls, and the Toffs had a 4th TD secure, but the Atlantis luck proved catching, as the Toffs first fumbled a pick-up then fumbled a pass to the endzone.  Falcons grabbed the ball, ripped upfield in elf fashion to score a consolation try.

2-3 (0-1) no deaths


ALNSBs (Chaos Dwarf/Paul) vs Girls' Night Out (Amazon/Greg)

Amazons were quaking in their designer boots at the outset of this game, jeez were these guys ugly - and their smell, eau d'sewer.  The game started with a kick-off to the 'zons, who intended to score while they still had players on the pitch.  Much to their surprise, they badly hurt one of the grotesque lineman straight off, and scored in two.  Now for the ugly part, they thought.  But the titanium underwear they were wearing proved impervious, and despite countless knock downs, few went off to the KO bin, and only one was hurt, and she apoth'd. Girls held their own, covering gaps efficiently, especially as no one was going off, and the CDs couldn't score. They fouled the bull guys continuously while the ref looked the other way, but with no results but stuns.  Second half, kick-off to CDs who finally began to pound upon the squirming Girls, sending enough into the KO bin, and scored quickly.  But the Girls could still field 11 and had their key players intact, whereas the CDs were down 2.  Girls kept their order, were stopped up the left side, then with time running out, Sharon, a blitzer emerged with the ball, running right across the field and threw a desperate pass to the new thrower on the far sideline.  Pass was inaccurate but the dwarfs were too slow, and the nasty bull things too far away to do anything about it.  A pick up and a score with time gone.  A most surprising victory for the Girls, who never saw this coming.

1-2 (1-1) no deaths


Christian Schwager Commissioner and League Co-coordinator
David Cleverly League Co-coordinator

[schwager]

Welcome Sports Fans

Past the half-way mark, and Norse continue to dominate, with an effite horde of elves and, gulp, a vampire pursuing:  but what's that?  At the top of the league is a halflings team?  Whaaa?

http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/results/current.html


Atlantis Falcons (Regan/female High Elves) vs ALNSBs (Chaos Dwarf/Paul)

After winning the toss, the Atlantis Falcons strode Onto the pitch with purpose. The fans were behind them and the girls had a feeling that they would be needing their support before the day was out. After receiving the ball, the girls managed to move the ball downfield for a confident touchdown. After a well placed kick, the Falcons were rewarded with a Blitz which put the Chaos Dwarfs under more pressure. The rest of the half was a repeat of this pattern, with the Elves ablento go up 3-0 before the half ended.

The second half saw the Falcons again kicking with great accuracy deep into the opposition half. This time the fans were so worked up they smashed their way onto the pitch, resulting in all but one Chaos Dwarf being knock down. This set the tone fo.r the rest of the half, with the Elves buoyed by the crowd's adulation they could seemingly do no wrong. The final result was a staggering 6-0, seeing a number of key players romping home for touchdown after touchdown. The girls were humble in victory, though, acknowledging the role of their incredible fans in this big win. The girls' confidence has definitely been bolstered and it now remains to be seen what they do with that confidence.

ALNSBs (Chaos Dwarf/Paul) vs Atlantis Falcons (High Elf/Regan) 0-6 (0-1) 1 killed


Altdorf Athletic (Human/Nathan) vs Atlantis Falcons (High Elf/Regan)

A rookie team, Altdorf Athletic did not have the same fan following as the veteran Falcons. Feeling a tad outnumbered, the human fans sat in subdued silence as the game got underway with a reception by the Elves. After a deft cage maneuver and a timely break away from the pack, the Falcons managed to go up 1-0 midway through the first half. A confident response from the humans led to an equalizer before the whistle blew for half time.

As the second half began, an uncharacterist ically inaccurate kick from the Falcons led to a touchback and Altdorf started their drive. A botched pass attempt from one of AA's many Blitzers presented the Elves an opportunity they couldn't pass up. After a prolonged brawl in the middle of the pitch, the Elves managed to gain possession. Up and coming Quarterback Michelle Vick managed to scoop up the ball and pass it out to Catcher Betty Finneran. Finneran proved to be faster than the humans could manage and put the Falcons ahead 2-1 with only a couple of turns to spare. The final drive started with promise as the humans were able to work a couple of receivers deep in the Falcons backfield. The Falcons proceeded to mug one of the receivers and put huge pressure onto the second. The humans would have to be very lucky to equalize in the dying moments of the game, but a promising start had the fans on the edge of their seats. A last ditch long bomb from a human Blitzer was too little too late, as he tripped over his laces to end the game 2-1 in the Falcons' favour. Michelle Vick and Catcher Agnes Crumpler were particularly encouraged by the victory, finding new reserves of strength which will certainly help the team from here on out!

Altdorf Athletic (Human/Nathan) vs Atlantis Falcons (High Elf/Regan) 1-2 (1-1)


Malekith's Malice (Dark Elf/DanD, Nick) vs Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian)

Monday night saw the badly mauled Grünburg Bruisers take on the, so far winless, Malekith's Malice.
The Malice had recently been taken over by a new head coach and felt quietly confident, their line-up now boosted by a ST4 Witch Elf.

The Dark Elves pre-match confidence took an early blow, however, when a bad potion KO'd said ST4 Witch Elf for the start of the match.
Further blows were to follow in quick succession, when the Bruisers started things off with a Quick Snap and proceeded to get 2 more Dark Elves off the pitch (1KO, 1 BH) on the first push.
A textbook running play around the right flank followed and inevitably lead to the first TD for the Humans, two thirds into the half.

The clock was set back a turn for the next kick-off, due to a Riot in the stands. This gave the Dark Elves an even better chance to even the score before halftime. Things got off to a good start for the Malice, as a couple of Human defenders left the pitch in quick succession (1KO, 1BH). Some desperate defence form the Bruisers, however, managed to keep the Dark Elves at bay until time ran out.

During the break both teams stayed on the pitch and had impromptu training sessions, for which they were rewarded with an extra re-roll each.

The Witch Elf had finally recovered from the bad potion and took up position on the field, ready to cause some mayhem.
The Malice collected the ball and kept it safe behind their frontline, until a Blitzer and the Witch Elf had made their way into the Bruisers backfield. The pass sailed effortlessly into the waiting arms of the Witch Elf and she looked poised to score... until she was taken down hard by no less than three of Grünburg's defenders and the ball spilt loose.
A mad scramble for the ball erupted and the Bruisers came away with it and made off into the other direction.
As player numbers continued to dwindle on both sides, though, the Humans couldn't protect the ball sufficiently, and the Malice recovered it once more. Another elegant passing play and a quick run later, and it was 1-1.

There was still for the Bruisers to score the winning TD, but they opted for the wrong line-up at the kick-off.
A very deep and high kick was collected by the Bruisers' remaining Thrower, but they only managed to get a lone Blitzer into scoring range. Said Blitzer was quickly overwhelmed by Dark Elves and Badly Hurt in the process.
With no chance to score now for either team, the Humans went for a passing play to get some more SPPs... but Hans Schussmann fumbled the ball and thus the match came to close.

Malekith's Malice (Dark Elf/DanD, Nick) vs Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian) 1-1 (3-3)


Foul Guys (Orc/Dale) vs Child Abuse (Halfling/David)

So the Halflings turned up after their last week win with no one missing, dead or injured, in a good mood. This didn’t last long as Dale was waiting with a “Mean Orc” team, the Foul Guys and looking for easy SPP. So the Halflings agreed to be the victim.

The Halfling fans turned up for the food and fouling. The Child Abuse received 400K inducements and took the Chef, 2 x Star player from dead pool (War dancer & High elf catcher), and a potion.

Orc won the toss and choose to receive, Halfling smashing time. Things were looking good until the chef starting serving the food, 2 Rerolls “borrowed”. The Orcs then started a 4 turn drive for a TD. Notable events, Halflings have dodge ********, Halflings have 6 armour ******, elves that jump into cages for one die blocks throw skulls, all Rerolls were all used up early,  Trees do fall down, Trees can never get back up, Orc Blitzer’s can dodge, and score.

So we all lined up again for the Orc kick. This turned into a Elf showboating 3 turn TD with the War dancer and elf catcher running through the Orcs to score easily. One Halfling was CAS and two KOed. Halftime saw the score 1-1 with 1 Halfling CAS and all other still playing.

The second half saw the Chef run out of food, bloody Orc’s, No reroll borrowed, and the Orcs in a mean mood. The Halfling received the kick off and once again the “Elf show boat” ran through the Orcs, as only elves can, for a 2  turn TD. The Orcs sent another Halfling off with a serious injury, and took a badly hurt player themselves.

The Orcs now started a drive but dropped a accurate pass early on, the Elves pounced on the loss ball and managed to run free for a TD, 3-1. The Halfling wanting to get into the game lost another serious injury.

The Orcs set up again for a quick drive but were thwarted by another dropped catch. This allowed the Halflings to swamp the ball and slow the game until full time.

Final score: 3-1 to Elves/Halflings and 3-1 CAS to Orcs, I think this is called an “Orc draw”

Orc got two skills, A Ag 4 Blitzer, and a Guard/Block Bob.
Halflings have two seriously injured Halflings, and will need more food for the next game.



ALNSBs (Chaos Dwarf/Paul) vs Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg)

The Toffs minced their way onto the pitch, many with specialised nose pouches, to combat the smell of the Chaotic ones.  Whatever the smell was, it led to much forgetfulness as brain synapses snapped. Elves started with 3 journeymen. Somehow- lost to memory-  the Toffs scored in the first half.  Then a quickish score for the CD's in the second half.  Toffs tried for a quick one too, but lost the ball and it went back and forth.  With a win in sight, the 3ag Chaos Warrior picked up the ball and was ready to make a break down an unguarded sideline, but an elven foot tripped him up, the ball went into the crowd, who threw it backwards, directly into the arms of the ag5 elf lineman who had been standing uselessly out of the play.  Down he went to hand off to the last unskilled skilled elf player, who scored.  with time nearly over.  But not quite:  the ALNSBs blitzed and were able to get that 3ag Warrior into scoring position, but a successful blitz and down and out he went.  Elves seldom failed anything, but the CDs could not break armour - the elves were only stunned (tho some thought they were taking a sneaky break to adjust their make-up).  3 Elf upgrades, including the accurate thrower gaining ag.

1-2 (2-1) an elf journeyman killed.



Christian Schwager Commissioner and Co-convenor League

David Cleverely Co-convenor League

[schwager]

Welcome Sports Fans!

Another seven games played this week, with enough blood to please the thirstiest Bloodbowler: 42 cas vs a mere 19 TD's... And back on track with more deaths and horrible injuries - Girls' Night Out became a nightmare!  The Face Restoration Invalids List is now at 28!

Only a few reports for some obscure reason:  late summer days?


Drakenburg Demons (Vampire/Nick) vs Atlantis Falcons (High Elf/Regan) 0-3 (1-4) 1 killed

The Demons and Falcons fans eyed each other up as the players hit the pitch, the stadium's loyalty split right down the middle. The Falcons won the toss and elected to receive, promptly putting the ball into the hands of star runner Michelle Vick and forming a cage around her. After some adept blocking, the Demons were down 3 players as the front line crumbled under the Elves' assault. To add insult to injury, the Vampires seemed to have been overtaken by some primal thirst, a hunger which could only be satiated by feasting on their own players. So, with the numbers advantage, the Falcons settled in for a slow drive, making the most of their situation before reserves could be called in. Turn 5 came and the time was ripe for the first score, with new Thrower Missy Schaub reversing roles and playing receiver for the TD.
The Demons recovered a few players and started the next drive somewhat refreshed. However, a cruel twist of fate left the ball in position for another Falcons TD. The Elves were buoyed by this, going into half time leading 2-0.
The Falcons set up to kick off the second half and decided to press the advantage, calling a Blitz which immediately put the Demons under pressure. After a number of attempts to get a receiver open, the Vampires made a break for the line with one of the immortal kindred. His ancient might was not enough, though, surrounded by a trio of defenders who managed to sack the ball carrier, scattering the ball into the waiting arms of a Lineman. The Falcons managed to get a thrower into position to receive the hand off and send the ball sailing into the Demons' half for a third touchdown.
And so ended the Demons' winning streak. They look forward to the rematch, and there is no doubt they'll be out for blood!


Altdorf Athletic (Human/Nathan) vs Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg)

Humans looked to controlling the skilled Elves, and did so for much of the first half after receiving the kick-off.  But the drive stalled. Suddenly a loose ball, failed pick-ups, and a human blitzer got it and hared for the line.  Not seeing the shoddy grass traps set there by Elf management, he tripped on a double one gfi.  Stretching his legs to their full extent, an Elf catcher stretched all the way to the corner space, and fired a long one up field, which was caught.  But double skull, and it was all on again.  This time however, the ball came loose on the far sideline, where the ag5 Elf thrower accurately threw a bomb across field, and the Elves caged up to run it in just before end of half.  Second half, Elves got the kick-off and fired another long one downfield into a tackle zone, dodged out and scored.  Then they really started to show their skills:  Humans tried to cage, but the Elves ran thru them as if they didn't exist, and never missed a block.  Couple more freed up balls, pick-ups in multiple tackle zones, etc, annoying elf stuff, and two more scores.

0-4 (1-1)


Norty Norse (Norse/Dan) vs Girls Night Out (Amazon/Greg)

The Girls thought they had the numbers, and that maybe they could charm the Norse.  Wild guys turned to be perverted misogynists, and the thumping began.  Girls got the kick-off, but began losing numbers immediately, and the drive never really got underway.  They tried a couple passes, which failed, got thumped some more.  Norse picked up the ball and scored.  End of half.  Girls started the second half with 11, the extra 4 in the injury bin.  Then the Norse went wild, with every block penetrating the scant armour of the girls.  One off, another, another killed, another crippled, and so forth, till by the time the Norse scored, there were only 4 Girls left on the pitch.  They did their best, but more death and destruction, and the game ended.  2 key Girls were killed, two more crippled permanently.  8 casualties in all.  Girls Nightmare Out.

2-0 (8-3) two dead Girls, their star passer and catcher.


Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) vs Atlantis Falcons (High Elf/Regan) 1-1 (5-3)

ALNSBs (Chaos Dwarf/Paul) vs Altdorf Athletic (Human/Nathan) 1-2 (5-0)

ALNSBs (Chaos Dwarf/Paul) vs Foul Guys (Orc/Dale) 2-0 (2-1)

Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian) vs Child Abuse (Halfling/David) 1-2 (4-3)


Christian Schwager Commissioner and Co-convener
David Cleverely Co-convener 

[schwager]

Welcome Sports Fans!

Week 10 with 5 to go.  Finally, the embarrassment of a Halfling team leading the table came to a stop, leaving those Norse (hey, when are they going to play each other?  Rest of the league would love to see a mutual slaughter from these killer teams), Elves, and the creeping Nurgle and zooming Vampires near the top.

Results and standings can be found here:
http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/results/current.html


Civil War on the Blood Bowl Pitch!

An all Human match up between newcomers Altdorf Athletic and veterans Grünburg Bruisers resulted in a rather brutal display of Blood Bowl goodness this Monday night. The fine weather attracted 25,000 fans, mostly from the Grünburg region.

The Bruisers kicked the match off to the cheer of the fans, and Athletic set out on a drive straight down the middle of the pitch. Altdorf's first push, spearheaded by their hulking Ogre, left several of the defenders stunned and KO'd in its wake. The Bruisers managed to redeploy, however, and put some pressure on the ball carrier.  It was the Ogre who, once again, managed to smash a hole into the Bruisers' defensive line and a lone Athletic Blitzer slipped through the gap and legged it for the endzone.  Still a few metres short, the Bruisers defenders caught up with him and took him down near the sideline, with the rest of their team forming up around the ball. A big maul ensued and eventually it was Grünburg who came away with the pigskin and set up a counter attack.  Altdorf's Wizard summoned a Whirlwind, but only managed to pick up one of the players surrounding the ball carrier. With a Blitzer wide open near the LOS, Grünburg went for the passing play, but the aforementioned Blitzer dropped the ball where he was standing.
This enabled Altdorf to recover the ball once more, but time was already up and so the first half ended without either side being able to get on the board. 

The first half had clearly taken its toll on the players, but more so on Athletic's side, who only managed to field 8 fit players after the break.  Altdorf's kicker dropped a high one into the air, which was calmly caught by Grünburg's Thrower just behind the LOS. The Bruisers went for a push down their right flank, but Altdorf poured every available player into the breach and succeeded in plugging the hole. With no way through on the right, the Bruisers switches plays to the left flank. A short pass found its way into the waiting arms of a Lineman who was completely unmarked deep in Altdorf's backfield. With most of their team stuck on the other side of the pitch, there was no way any of the Athletic's were able to catch up with him before he comfortably strolled over the line for the opening TD.  There was plenty of time left now for Athletic to get back into the game, but the Bruisers caught them out with a Blitz!, got a player under their own kick, and set up a rolling maul with plenty of support.  Some valiant defending from Altdorf, however, managed to grind the Bruisers advance to a halt and they had to switch to the other side once more. But the Athletic's were everywhere and stalled the attack further.  Eventually it was the Bruisers' sheer weight of numbers that broke the line and enabled the ball carrier to break free. When one of Altdorf's Blitzers was pushed off the pitch and Badly Hurt by the crowd, resistance finally faltered and Grünburg ran in their second TD of the night.  By that stage, it was clear that this was not Athletic's night. A point further emphasised when Grünburg pulled out a Perfect Defense on the last drive, denying Altdorf the chance of a consolation score.

And so the match ended with a solid win for the Bruisers and plenty of broken bones and other terrible injuries on both sides... 3 BHs and 3 SIs in total.

Altdorf Athletic (Human/Nathan) vs Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian) 0-2 (2-4)


Drakenburg Demons vs ALNSBs

Looking for an early 2-turn TD on the receive the Vampires had an atrocious starting phase, not putting together anything or getting anywhere while biting half their own team off the pitch.
Expecting a massive come back and ensuing mauling the Demons were pleasantly surprised when Nuffle decided the Chaos Dwarves weren't worthy of any dice rolls higher than a 1! and decided not to change his mind for the entire game... The CD's got a grand total of 3 KO's (6 total, but the Vamps did 3 to themselves) and 1 casualty in an entire game of hitting skill-less armour 7 players.... Basically nuff said right there....
The Demons are still slightly shocked, and are very nervous about Karma coming around to bite them next game... The ALNSBs proved their name wrong, perhaps it will be NL&NSB's soon

Vampires 3-0 (0-1) Chaos Dwarves


Child Abuse (Halfling/David) vs Girls' Night Out (Amazon/Greg)

The Girls approached this game with some trepidation, having lost to death and horrible mutilation most of their skilled players last week, and starting two keen apprentices.  The apprentices approached the trees, and spent most of the game hugging them, much to the annoyance of the ancient logs.  There were some suggestions about rooting, but the trees took it the wrong way, and rooted to the ground.  Lastly, the chef was so taken with the gaunt, miserable appearance of the Girls, that he only took one reroll from them the whole game!  Girls got the kick-off, but failed passes, pick-ups and dodges, plus nice Abuse bounces, led to the pesky deadpool wardancer, Loec, playing his 4th game for the Abuse, to pick up the ball and score.  Girls tried to gather their wits, and made an all out plunge down the sideline, helped by a rooted tree, to score as time nearly ran out.  A hurled imp failed to score as time ran out.  Second half, Abuse got the kick-off, but got stalled in a drive down the right, a rooted tree again key.  And by this time, a number of snotlings were resting in the ko bin, and numbers were thin.  Nevertheless, the odious blodging, leaping, sidestepping wardancer made a cross field dash for the line.  But he was caught by blitzer, Shaunelle, Auditing Manager, and injured:  but despite decay, Loec was only badly hurt, and lives to play again next time for the Abuse.  The ball went straight to thrower, Farida, Dispatches Clerk, who passed to a blitzer on the sideline.  Tree responded by throwing a snotling at her, but overthrew, and into the crowd the abused little guy went. Then a run through an even more diminished defense, and another rooted tree, for a score.  Still time, though for a thrown snotling, but not to be, as the six snotlings in the KO bin all refused to come out, claiming abuse.

1-2 (3-1) no deaths


Wolfdregil (Norse/David) vs ALNSBs (Chaos Dwarf/Paul) 1-2  (0-3)

The undefeated Wolfdregil went into the game pretty confidently vs the oft-lost ALNSBs.  But they were to be unpleasantly surprised.  Kickoff went to the Norse, who gathered in the ball, but were unable to stall long enough.  A relatively quick reply by the CD speedy bull.  Then second half, and the Chaos wanted to score quickly, but couldn't.  Leading to a crushing slow move down field, with the Norse finally falling to injury:  of course, only badly hurts.  Not enough Norse left on pitch to reply to the Bull Centaur's inevitable score.  And a loss!  Good way to avenge this would be against the other Norse?


Altdorf Athletic (Human/Nathan) vs Karak Hirn Tigers (Dwarf/Daryl)1-1 (0-3) two human deaths

Dwarf vs Human was always going to be a struggle, but this one was more than most.  Humans got the kick-off and drove down the sideline, leaving the ball carrier open to a one die block.  It failed, but instead of pushing the offending Dwarf runner into the crowd, the Athletic runner decided to form another cage.  Bit of smacking, and Humans down in numbers.  Desperate rush scored.  Then second half, the Dwarf team did the same thing to the humans, punching their way to an eventual score as time was running out.  Exhausting stuff.  Was it worth the two human lives to get a draw?


Atlantis Falcons (High Elf/Regan) vs Virile Vikings (Norse/Nathan) 1-1 (0-3)


Christian Schwager Commissioner and Co-convener
David Cleverely Co-Convener

[schwager]

Welcome Sports Fans!

Limited turn-out this week, possibly due to the exhaustion (and in one case, injury) from Equinox.  But the games played were eventful, to say the least.  Battles involving the top 3 and the up-and-comers just below, with some surprising results. And some ugly scenes:  in just 3 matches, 4 killed, 20 casualties - 12 alone in the Halflings/Norse stouch.  Next week, back to normal, whatever that may be. 

Christian has updated the roster so that teams that appear likely to make the playoffs are listed.  Keeping in mind that each coach has to choose only one of their teams, there are good chances for everyone on that list to make the finals.  Be there next Sunday and/or Monday and get that team up skilled and ready.  Teams in the lower half can still play games too.
http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/results/current.html


Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) vs ALNSBs (Chaos Dwarf/Paul)

Monday nights clash between the ALNSBs and Rottenham Clotspew was always gonna be a chaotic mess... and 18,000 chaotic fans made sure of that, throwing rocks at both teams during the opening kick-off, which left a CD Blocker stunned and the Beast of Nurgle badly hurt (regen'd and retired to the reserves box).

When things finally got underway in pouring rain, the Chaos Dwarves pushed hard and injured and KO'd some more of the Rotters from the outset. Despite being severely outnumbered, Rottenham continued to make life difficult for the stunted ones. Lowly Rotters managed to catch the ALNSBs' runaway BC ball carrier no less than three times, before he blitzed his way over the line in spectacular fashion for the opening TD.

With time left to even the scores, Rottenham threw their players forward and got themselves within scoring range. By then, however, the weather had changed to sweltering heat and that all-important TD pass proved too much effort for a Rotter and he fumbled it on the spot.

After the break, Clotspew had the whole of the second half available to drive the ball over their opponents line. Boosted by the renewed presence of the BoN, things got off to a good start, with a CD going into the KO'd bin early on. Just moments later, though, after some appalling blocking efforts from the diseased ones, things quite literally fell to pieces.  The foul cage of Nurgle began breaking apart and desperation plays became the order of the day. Once more the Rotters managed to get themselves into scoring position, but with only moments left to play, some brilliant defending from the ALNSBs ended all hopes for a draw.

All those guarding CDs simply proved too tough a nut to crack and two of the Rotters, Eric the Cold Knee and Hernia Goreslime, paid the ultimate price for their fruitless efforts.

Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) vs ALNSBs (Chaos Dwarf/Paul) 0-1 (1-4) 2 killed


Norty Norse (Norse/Dan) vs Child Abuse (Halfling/David)

The Norty Norse climbed back to the top of the table after the loss last week of the Halflings, Child Abuse, and Coach Dan was keen to keep them there. Giving away 780 K in inducements, Dan insisted on a match.

Child Abuse brought the Master chef and star player Deeproot along, as well as hiring the wardancer and High Elf catcher from the dead pool to make up a 16 man roster. This also left enough for 2 potions, agility & sure feet that went to a Halfling.

Child Abuse were able to win the toss and chose to receive. The master chef was still getting the food ready and only stole 1 reroll. Three trees on the LOS and 2 elves in the back field allowed the Halfling to grind a 4 turn drive through the Norse, their KO bin filling rapidly.  The Norse were now able to return the favour with their drive.  A CAS to a treeman forced the apoth onto the field. As the Norse ground forward screening their ball carrier, they were undone by a leaping, blitzing wardancer. In a scramble for the ball, a Halfling finally recovered it and was flung down the field to score in turn 8. Half time saw  Child Abuse up 2-0, 1-3 CAS  .

Second half saw the Norse start strong again, but they lost all their rerolls to the chef. In the 8 turn drive that was the second half, another treemen got CAS, a Halfling was killed, wardancer CAS, another 3 Halflings BH, only two Norse were Cas, and the ball ?. Both teams were losing men quickly, the lack of rerolls impacted the Norse as a series of double skulls kept finishing their turn after one move. The Halflings were able to get to the Norse ball carrier, get the ball loose, and grabbed it, ending in the High Elf show boating in for a TD.

Final score:
3-0 TD to Child Abuse
3-9 Cas to Norse

20 spp to 23 spp to Norse.
1 Halfling killed

That’s a big WIN to the Halflings, only one dead, and six players left on the field.


Ponytail Prancers (Elf/Nathan) vs Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg)

The Toffs showed up disappointed to find one of their ex-players, Namebarr, a blitzer, playing for the Prancers.  He was bloody effective too.  Toffs got the kick-off, but a blitz forced them to cage up rather than go for the quick one.  One of the wardancers dodged into the cage and with a two die against, flattened the Toff thrower, dislodging the ball.  The dancer was then pushed onto the ball, and it bounced, picked up by nerves of steel catcher who was flattened, ball bounced again, to another catcher, flattened, then to a thrower, who caught it, and couldn't be hit, the Toffs running out of active players in the maul.  Pass down to a wardancer, and score.  Toffs mightily upset at the upstarts by this time.  A quick dash downfield to receiving positions, a nice long pass and catch and score.  Then a kick off to the Prancers, but blitz.  Toffs got a catcher under the ball, but he couldn't handle it, and with blitzing players out of position, the Prancers caged successfully, then raced downfield for a score.  Toffs tried for a one-turner, and catcher reached position only to have the passer fail to pick up the ball.

Second half, and a ferocious half-time dressing down for the Toffs, but to little avail, players too busy adjusting make-up.

the Prancers scored quickly to be up 3-1.  Toffs got a 2 turner in the usual manner, long pass down field to narrow the gap.  They cunningly kicked a short one to the Prancers that ended up right on the LOS and luckily for the Toffs, didn't go out.  Prancers gathered in, and went for a cage: with the leaping Toff blitzer out badly hurt, seemed safe enough.  But it wasn't, and the ball knocked loose.  Mighty scramble, but eventually, the Toff passer, making up for his shortcomings in the first half, grabbed it in traffic and threw to the 4st catcher, who ran back behind a couple of his linemen.  The Prancers still managed a 2 die block on him, and flattened him:  now it was down to the bounce of the ball 50/50.  It bounced right to a Toff who caught it.  Quick pass and a score to tie the game.  But kick off to Prancers again didn't look good - Toffs don't have any tackle or rr's, and the leaper was in the hospital.  Again, the Toff kicker placed the ball right behind the LOS.  Again, the Prancers elected to  pass and run straight into Toff territory with a loose cage: time was running out and the Prancers wanted a win.  But the guard Toff was conveniently located, and a two die block again succeeded. Again, up to the bounce of the ball, this time 5/3 in favour of the Prancers with only one really good space for the Toffs.  It went to that space, and the 5ag passer grabbed it again in traffic, hurled another long one which the catcher grabbed ran in for the winning score as time ran out. What lucky buggers, but hey, they're at the top of the charts, as it should be in the Not the Face! League.

3-4 (1-2) one Prancer lineman killed

[schwager]

Welcome Sports Fans!

Four games this week, another three dead, but shock! More TDs than cas.  The Halflings showed again their worth (or really, the worth of the extremely skilled dead pool elves), the High Elves dominated humans and dwarfs, but once again, the Vampires shone and now have a true star - a 5ag Drac.  Only 3 weeks of regular play left until the playoffs. Don't forget, play continues Sunday, and we really need another player or two this week.


Karak Hirn Tigers (Dwarf/Daryl) vs Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg)

The High Elves were not looking forward to playing these elves, with guard and MB, and when the Death Roller thundered onto the field at opening kick-off as an incentive mercenary, they were quaking.  Kick off to the Dwarfs, and ball gathered in, but cage was well back thank to kick-off skill.  A couple moves, a leaping blitzer and nice bounce, and a turnover - elf score.  Right up to the end, the Dwarfs tried caging, but because they couldn't get any Elves off the pitch, the cage broke down.  It was astonishing, actually, hit after hit, 3 die attack from the Roller and others and all that happened to the Elves was stunned - only one KO.  Aside from the lineelf death, nothing for the Dwarfs.  Hit and hit and hit, foul and foul - nothing.  Elves simply did stupidly agile things and whisked thru cages like they weren't there, seldom missing a block on a ball carrier.  Zippidity doo da.  Finally, frustrated as all hell, the Tigers said to hell with cages, and tossed a long one from blitzer to runner, who took off unaided and isolated down the sideline, survived a block and dodged a couple times for a consolation score as time ran out.  Once again, the Toffs proved themselves one of the luckiest teams around (though their eight dead players might disagree).  And the Tigers are only a game away from a death roller as a regular player.

1-5 (1-0) 1 Elf killed.


Drakenburg Demons vs Tuff Toffs

The Toffs gave away enough inducements for the Demons to grab a mercenary thrall and 3 potions for the game.
While 2 potions gave the Demons a leaping vamp and a catching vamp, the third managed to cause another vampire to start from the KO bin. The Toffs won the toss and chose to receive, but a thrown rock on the opening kick-off KO'd their star thrower in the backfield. This led to an important moment when the vampire with the newly gained catch skill was on-hand to intercept the throw - and since a lineman was taking it, no safe throw! This led to a turn-over and eventual vampire TD. Then a blitz.  From this point on, despite not having too much further trouble scoring when they put their mind to it, the Toffs mind wasn't in the game - it was almost like they had given up. A gang foul that only stunned a vampire caused two Toffs to be sent off for the game, further depleting their numbers - despite this they still managed to score whenever they received the ball. 3 casualties in total, 1 by the vamp's against the Elves, 1 by the vamps against the thralls and 1 from a thrall failing to dodge.

Final Score: Vampires 5-3 [1-2] High Elves


Child Abuse (Halfling/David)vs ALNSBs (Chaos Dwarf/Paul)

Once again, the Halflings showed their mettle (rather the mettle of the several spectacular elves it uses from the dead pool), in holding the always tough ALNSBs to a hard fought draw, and even win the cas count!  These lil guys seemingly can do no wrong, esp when they line up with Deeproot too.  What a team, the Abused 'lings are shouting in their little voices:  "Can we go to the playoffs instead of those boring Wolfdregils, please Coach David, please, please....."
1-1 (1-3)


Atlantis Falcons (High Elf/Regan) vs Damaged Goods (Human/Dan)

The Norty Norse's thuggish cousins took a break from their jobs as mob affiliates, to mug the High Elves the Dan Clan hates so much.  In this they succeeded, with 3 casualties inflicted.  But they suffered 4 themselves, being far from match fit.  The surprise is that the humans did so well, keeping the Falcons to a mere two TD's.  There was a high price in the game, though, with two deaths.

2-1 (4-3) 2 killed


Check out all results and standings here...
http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/results/current.html

[schwager]

Only one week left, sports fans...

...for you to witness and participate in the epic bloodletting that is known as the Elf League:  Deaths have already topped 40, and the legendary elf catcher Rotarbaen, who went to glory as a dead player, died again, and has been resurrected again, this time slowed down somewhat as a zombie.  A few scores as well, and a top of the table battle between Elves and the notorious Norse - oh, by the way, only one week left and so finally, the long anticipated Norse vs Norse battle (yeah, right).

Games still taking place on Sundays at City Guard.  There is an astonishingly unlucky Dwarf team operating from there:  guess Nuffle expects them to be worshipping at the shrine instead and is making his displeasure known.

http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/results/current.html


Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg) vs Wolfdregil (Norse/David)

Elves were not keen to play this game, having major social events to attend, and when dragged on to the field, attempted to leave, but were prevented by an irate Norse coach and fans.  Their initial drive was not the usual:  they were blocked in by the Norse, rookie passer missed a pass, loose ball stuff, but ag5 saved the day once again, and they managed to score.  Then on the ensuing kick-off, the Norse runner could not pick up the ball, and in came the Elf catchers to grab it.  More melee ensued, with ball changing hands, and some hint of illegal play on the part of the Elves (some rumour their coach is going over to the dark side), and another Elf score.  Not sufficient time or luck for a Norse reply, and the half came to an end, with the elves now down to 9. Norse drive was effective, and Elves scattered to safety to watch the score.  Then another attempt at an elf score, but again, loose ball, again saved by amazing ag5 and an Toff try.  Norse came back for another easy one.  And that was that, another undeserved (Elf) win.  Elves will be back to starting with a journeyman again next game.

3-2 (2-2) No deaths


Orcs against Humans... or were they all Elves in disguise?

A most peculiar match unfolded between the Grünburg Bruisers and the Foul Guys last Monday night... and 21,000 fans were out to get a piece of the action.

Grünburg started things off with a High Kick, which was promptly dropped by the AG4 Orc Thrower. After grabbing the pigskin on his second attempt, he decided to pass the ball to a Blitzer that was waiting in a pocket that had formed on the LOS... and missed.
The ball then bounced right out of the cage, giving the Humans the perfect opportunity for an early turn-over. A quick pass from the Humans' AG4 Thrower saw the ball to relative safety behind the frontline.
A frantic scuffle ensued and eventually the Bruisers fired off a Long Bomb into the waiting arms of a Blitzer that had sneaked into the Foul Guys' backfield. He still had a bit of work to do to get away from his markers, but soon after it was 1-0 to the Bruisers.

The Foul Guys were eager to strike back and restarted the match with a Quick Snap. This time the pass stuck, but left the ball carrier only partially protected. The Humans used their speed to get in behind the Orcs once more and the ball carrier was sacked.
After a lot of pushing and shoving, it was the Bruisers that came away with the ball. A Long Pass across field later, and it was 2-0 to the Humans, right on half-time.

The start of the second half saw the Bruisers receive the ball for the first time. By this stage, the Humans had already suffered two injuries, which would have been four, had the team's Apothecary not be so well equipped. It was the Orcs, however, that were a man down after suffering a KO in the first half.
It was the fans that were to have the biggest impact on the following drive, though. They invaded the pitch in force and everyone seemed to be beating up on the Orcs (even their own fans), leaving 5 of the greenskins stunned, as well as two of the Humans.
To make things even more interesting, the Bruisers' AG4 Thrower had become Really Stupid for the drive, after his orange had been spiked by the Orcs. Luckily, however, the ball landed right in front of the other Thrower and play finally got underway.

Since the entire left flank of the Orcs had been taken out by the PI, the Bruisers swarmed up that side, their Thrower with the ball safely in a cage made up of stunned Orcs.
Everything went to plan, and by turn 2 it was 3-0 to Grünburg.

Even though the match was all but lost for the Orcs now, both teams continued to give it their all.
After dropping yet another High Kick as it came down, the Orcs proceeded to drop yet another pass. Once more the Humans pounced and almost got away for their fourth TD.
This time, however, and after inflicting much pain on the Bruisers in the process, the Orcs caught up with them and recovered the ball. In the dying moments of the match, the Foul Guys somewhat redeemed themselves. They successfully fired a Long Pass down the field which was caught by a Blitzer in the open, who then threw himself over the line right on full-time for the Orcs' consolation try.

In the end a rather costly win for the Bruisers (1 dead, 2 SI, 3 BH), but the most surprising statistic of the match was the Passing one...
Completions - Orcs 2 (from 4) - Humans 4 (from 5)

Foul Guys (Orc/Dale) vs Grünburg Bruisers (Human/Christian) 1-3 (6-0) 1 killed


Karak Hirn Tigers (Dwarf/Daryl) vs Girls' Night Out (Amazon/Greg)

Amazon are always intimidated by Dwarfs and this game would prove no exception.  The depleted Girls took three doses of drugs before the game started, rendering two of the blitzers great leapers, and the thrower very sure footed.  This was to have a significant impact in the game.  But not for a while, as the nervous Girls got the kickoff, but couldn't pick up the ball.  A lot of fussing about, but eventually a Tiger took the ball out of reach to next to the goal.  By this time, 3 zons were off the pitch 2 with cas (one apoth'd) and as they only started with 11, it looked good for the 12 strong Dwarfs.  But before scoring in the next turn, the Dwarfs thought they would try to cripple one of the leap-chicks with a foul.  The foul KO'd her, but an eagle-eyed ref sent off 3! Tigers.  And a fourth, a skilled runner, was hit by a rock with the lack of score (Elf rules!) and so badly hurt, he had to be apoth'd.  Girls got the kickoff and roared down the pitch, getting a quick TD lined up beautifully.  Nice pass and catch, but when the blitzer, Stephanie, Accounts Receivable, turned to show off, she fell over in the end-zone. 

Second half, easy kick for the Tigers and a cage, but leaping into it was a guarding blitzer.  Then when it looked like a 2 die hit, down went the other leap-chick.  Still, not a lot of space for the Dwarfs, and another shot this time with one die, re-rolled, and down went the Dwarf runner, killed.  Horrendous struggle for the ball which went all over the mid field, eventually ending up on the sideline.  With zons down to 5 active players, a leap-chick leaped, got the ball in a tackle zone, threw from there successfully to the wrestler girl, who scored.  Still time for a Dwarf score, but once again, the Girls' lucked out and were able to reset their defense.  Dwarfs had a way past it, only needing a hand-off and two gfi's but fell, and the ball bounced loose.  Zons failed a pick-up, but still had a chance, only for a Dwarf to grab the ball.  And so the game ended, very disappointing result for both sides, who each had wins in sight.  But the Tigers fans were pleased enough, and as they left the stadium, they could see the magnificant death roller that will join the team next game.

1-1 (3-2) One Dwarf death.


ALNSBs (Chaos Dwarf/Paul) vs Girls' Night Out (Amazon/Greg)

With a lot of inducement points, the Girls took a couple of beery babes and three drug potions:  mistake in the latter, in that one blitzer got leap, but two other players had to sit out the whole first half with KOs, and so the Girls started the game fielding only 10.  This number problem was to continue with copious KOs and 4 injuries leaving them with only 7 players on the pitch by end of game.  They played valiantly, however, keeping the CDs scoreless until the last turn of second half.  Unfortunately, they didn't have much of an offense either, being unable to hold on to passes crucial to a short handed team.  Seems GNO has become pretty much a social team.  Their after-game party included invites to the bull centaurs, for some consolation and rough fun.

1-0 (4-1) No deaths.


Smells like Rotten Elf

Last Monday night saw the brave Halflings of Child Abuse take on the utterly diseased Rottenham Clotspew. A crowd of 26,000 (mostly Halfling) fans was helping the stunty ones out in the stands, while an Amazon Thrower, High Elf Catcher, Wizard and Master Chef were all ready to lend a hand closer to the action.

Rottenham won the toss and chose to kick the ball to the Halflings. While the Halfling fans threw a rock onto the pitch, stunning the Beast of Nurgle, the Amazon and High Elf played catch in the backfield and set up a drive up their right flank.
This play quickly got stuck near the LOS, however, as the Rotters successfully blocked the way, with the Beast now back in action.
It was then that a Treeman only narrowly escaped death through the intervention of the team Gardener (Apothecary).
In order to not get entangled in the rotting mess that was Rottenham's defence, the Elf quickly made his way over the the other side of the pitch and into the open. There he was caught by a couple of lowly Rotters and taken down in spectacular fashion.
Rottenham then managed to get numbers to the spilt ball quickly and the Halflings were unable to recover.
Instead is was a Pestigor who came away with the pigskin and the play was now on for the Clotspew. Once they got the ball clear of the big ruck on the LOS, there was no stopping them from scoring... except a Wizard, that is. But even he seemed distracted by the incredible stench of the rot and his Whirlwind only spell only picked up 1 out 3 players in the area.
Although the Rotters dropped the pass to get the ball out of reach of any would-be defenders, they still managed to score the opening TD before the end of the half.

After the break, Rottenham were on the offensive again from the get go. After scrambling back to recover a deep kick from the Halflings, three of the team's Pestigors set up a drive that moved slowly from their own endzone diagonally up the pitch. Around the LOS they were joined by the rest of their team, who had been busy pounding the Halflings' frontline, causing more injuries and even death on the stunty ones.
As the rotting cage got rolling properly, the Halflings' High Elf, Rotarbaen repeatedly tried breaking into the cage from the rear... but a prolonged scuffle with his marker had already infected him with the dreaded Rot and he collapsed on the spot. Moments later he signed a contract with Rottenham.
This was a big blow to the defenders and they could only look on despair at the events that unfolded before their eyes. After more pummelling of hapless Halflings and ganging up on mighty Treemen, the Rotters ran the ball over the line for their second TD.

There was still time for the Halflings to get a consolation try, but bad weather was brewing. As the final kick-off sailed through the air, a Blizzard hit the stadium and made things all the more harder for Child Abuse.
In the end simply wasn't enough time left, let alone any players that could make use of it... and frankly, the poor little Halflings had had enough of this since the game started.

Child Abuse (Halfling/David) vs Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) 0-2 (0-5) 2 killed


In addition the highly regarded (and fourth placed) Drakenburg Demons (Vampire/Nick) took on a non-descript human rookie team (Dan) and astonishingly lost.  At one stage there were 10 KOs to nil vs the Dracs.  Humans apparently used a state of the art stadium which focused sunlight upon the field of play.

[schwager]

Welcome back Sports Fans

At last, this incredible season ends, with 48 deaths and 376 casualties in only 15 rounds.  Gently, gently indeed. Truly Bloodbowl!  The Nasty Norse continued rampaging, the poor Nurgle Beast the victim this time.  But at least one thing worked out as designed, a High Elf team won the regular season! And Rotarbaen, the legendary twice-killed HE catcher from that team, was the MVP of the season, having garnered 60 spps, 40 while alive, 18 semi-dead in the face reconstruction pool, and 2 more while lining up as a Rotter with the Nurgle where he remains, slowed down but still eager to play, specifically, to kill Norse.

Playoffs are:
Quarter-finals - 25 April '11

QF 1: Tuff Toffs (High Elf/Greg) vs ALNSBs (Chaos Dwarf/Paul)
QF 2: Norty Norse (Norse/Dan) vs Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian)
QF 3: Wolfdregil (Norse/David) vs Ponytail Prancers (Elf/Nathan)
QF 4: Drakenburg Demons (Vampire/Nick) vs Atlantis Falcons (High Elf/Regan)
Wooden Spoon : Karak Hirn Tigers (Dwarf/Daryl) vs Foul Guys (Orc/Dale)

With the 25th being Easter Monday +, some coaches may find they have to reschedule matches.  This is OK, as long as you contact your opponent before the 25th: email addresses are above.  Matches can be played anytime before 2nd May 6 PM.

Please refer to the website for playoff rules; any questions ask Christian.  http://www.solitudo.com/bloodbowl/index.html

Also, soon to come, will be the rules for the Winter Season, cleverely designed to enhance the powers of the long overlooked Big Guys!  Should be a mash-fest, really fun. ('Cept for the mashees.)


Did anyone move?

Sunday afternoon's clash between Rottenham Clotspew and the Karak Hirn Tigers was just what everyone expected it to be... a slow and low-scoring bash-fest.

Having won the coin toss, Rottenham chose to kick the ball. All this being part of a grand master-plan, of course, they then started the match off with a perfect defence, making things hard for the Dwarves from the get go.
For most of the first half, the Tigers didn't even manage to get the ball over the LOS. The pigskin spilt loose several times, but the Dwarves were able to recover each time. They weren't making any ground, however, so they had to resort to such "Elfy" tactics like passing the ball. Considering all the disturbing presences around, it was no surprise that the ball entirely missed its target and landed in front of a Nurgle Warrior instead.
The diseased ones muscled in around the ball with no intention of picking it up. Nevertheless, the Tigers managed to get a hand on it once more and a lone Dwarf runner was away for the score. Or at least he would have been, had he not been a bit too eager to get there and tripped over his own legs.
0-0 at half-time.

Although the Tigers had invested in a Bribe before the match, the officials suddenly couldn't remember taking all that cash, and the Dwarves' Death Roller had to sit out the second spell. This in turn, really enraged all the Dwarven fans in the stands and they staged a Riot during the next kick-off, delaying the start of the second half.
When things finally did get underway again, the Rotters had a slight numerical advantage and made the most of it. Rottenham set up a drive down their left flank, but things didn't go as smoothly as planned. A dogged Dwarf defence managed to knock the ball loose, but couldn't secure it, so Clotspew kept on grinding.
With the ball mere metres away from the endzone, a lone Troll Slayer slipped through the screen and was ready to pound the ball carrier. He was so fired up, however, that he punched himself in the face instead and the Pestigor trotted over the line for the game's only TD.

There was still an opportunity for the Dwarves to have another go, but time was all but up and nothing much happened before the final whistle.

Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) vs Karak Hirn Tigers (Dwarf/Daryl) 1-0 (1-0)


Drakenburg Demons Vs Foul Guys

Taking a couple of cards and a potion the Foul Guys kicked off to a Demon crew sporting their 5th Vampire.
Running through a quick TD on the receive, the Demons were able to turn the Orcs receive quite early and run through to up 2-0 in the first quarter. The Foul Guys managed to grab and cage the ball, getting it up the field as the Vampires on pitch numbers declined. The AG4 Blitzer with the leap potion managed an easy leap and score to take the Orcs into the half down 2-1. Receiving in the 2nd half the Orcs had the ball carrier popped twice, once, the crowd threw the ball the length of the pitch to a lone Vampire receivers feet - but the Foul Guys thrower managed the dodgy clearance and the score was drawn 2-2.
With 4 turns to score the Vamps left the ball in the hands of their ag5 and rushed up one-side, when the Orcs spread to cover the Demons gazed and dodged clear and moved the ball 3/4's of the pitch to score.

Final Score: Vampires 3-2 (0-5) Orcs


Rottenham Clotspew (Nurgle/Christian) vs Wolfdregil (Norse/David)

Finally, as befitting the last game of this vicious season, a bloodbash as the Norse softened up the Nurgle for the forthcoming game against the other Norse.  Game started horribly for the Clotspew: Norse received, then quickly forced the skilled block, grab Beast of Nurgle into retirement from a Norse Blitzer piling on.  Followed immediately by a dead Nurgle warrior, who somehow regen'd.  Then a Rotter SI'd.  A dead pestigor, regen'd and then finally, a Norse score.  Uggh.  Time for a comeback?  No way - Norse blitz.  Half time, and a Nurgle slow drive with the sole purpose of gaining revenge on that piling on Norse Blitzer - suceeds in killing the offender, who now joins the Clotspew.  Excellent revenge.  But a Nurgle pass into the endzone missed, and a pestigor pushed into the crowd instead.  Vigorous crowd throw and convenient Norse ball.  Then a dead rotter.  And a Norse score with time running out. 

0-2 (2-5) 4 killed (2 regen'd)


Christian Schwager Commissioner  League Co-convenor
David Cleverely League Co-convenor