2nd in our pool!!!

In spite of our rough start to the games, losing our first two matches, as Lori mentioned, we did move on to completely dominate the next team, which had us on the upswing for our last match of the round robin. This was the one that would determine our placing, so we needed to win. We started off well, although it was a close game, and ended up having to play catch-up for the last few points, winning 26-24. The second game of the match started much better--we pulled ahead easily, played really really well, and took the game 25-17 (or something like that).

First statement: FINALLY, after FOUR matches, we have gelled! As Kelly says, "NOW, I recognize this team!" We're playing like we can, which is a relief.

Second statement: It was touch and go whether we would advance to the higher ranked pool or not, since we were 2-2, and the top three teams advance to the higher pool and the bottom two teams go to the lower one. Mom and Lori checked out the results and came back looking crestfallen. Turns out there was a tie three ways for second place, and when they figured out our wins and points, we came...SECOND! Mom and Lori put on the sad faces just to stress us out. Lovely surprise to come in second place after starting off losing our first two matches.

So tomorrow we have to play a cross-over round robin, where we play the three top-ranked teams in the other pool. There's at least one tough team in that pool--Brazil is big and strong. But so are we! We play at 9AM, and then again at 12:45 and 3:15. Another full day of hard games.

They have massage therapists on site for $10 for 10 minutes. My 20 minute massage today between games was a VERY good choice. I may have to do that again tomorrow.

Back on the home front, Daniel is traveling very well, and Eugene is holding down the fort at home, doing the 'wave' in the bleachers (all by himself) and then heading home early to make supper for the team. We have had lovely meals hot and ready for us when we get home from play, which has been fantastic.

Currently, we're sitting around after supper sampling hibiscus flowers in sparkling wine, followed by mango sparkling wine, a la Lori (from a winery up by Cairns). Delish. Early to bed tonight, for early games tomorrow.

Go, team!