Two highly anticipated matches lived up to the hype, as the top of the power pools in the Open division did battle on day 5 of the WFDF 2012 World Ultimate and Guts Championships in Sakai. USA outlasted Australia in a dog fight, a game featuring multiple lead changes and stifling defenses. The Aussies held a 8-5 lead, but were unable to hold off an American run to half, and would find themselves down at half, 9-8. They never relented, fighting back to take the lead 16-15. After a USA hold, the Australians would have a shot to win Top seeds go to universe point, U.S. and Japan victorious. A receiver nearly came down with a low hammer throw in the end zone, but could not hang on, giving the USA a chance for the win. Robbie Cahill found separation on his man, but the throw from Mark Sherwood hung into the wind. As the disc pinballed between defender and receiver, it drifted to the back of the end zone where Sam Kanner would lay for the catch and the win.
Japan also squeaked by against Canada in a game that featured rough physical play from the frosty northerners. With the game tied at 13, a Japanese thrower fit a pass perfectly into the back left corner of the end zone, giving them the game, 14-13.
The Quarterfinals feature USA vs. Finland, Australia vs. Great Britain, Japan vs. Sweden, and Canada vs. Germany.
Women`s division – New Zealand wins over Germany
It was a game filled to the brim with exciting plays and a big comeback by Germany, but in the end New Zealand prevailed 17-15. Early in the game, the Kiwis were able to build a lead off of the play of their 4 person zone, forcing the Germans to dump and swing it up the field into the wind. Nobuko Mori struck quickly off the change of possession putting the disc deep for her favorite receivers, Sarah Rice and Jennie Parker. Rice led the way with 5 goals, several coming on spectacular receptions. New Zealand had no fear of the wind, using a high risk style of play to take half at 9-6. Germany stayed with it, and leaned heavily on the talents of Sara Wickstrom, who had an incredible game of 7 assists and 2 goals. In the 2nd half, the wind died down enough for the patient offense of the Germans to go to work. They chipped away at the lead, holding fast until they broke through to take the lead at 15-14. However, their celebration was short lived as New Zealand’s defense came through on the final two points, taking the game 17-15.
Both Canada and Japan continued their undefeated streak. We can’t wait to see these two teams match up!
Mixed division – The Philippines were dominant, defeating Russia 14-11 and France 17-9. Advancing from Pool A to quarters are Canada, Australia, Great Britain and Germany. From Pool B to the quarters go Japan, USA, France and the Philippines.
With material from the official WUGC 2012 Newsletter featured today by skydmagazine.com . Check out skydmagazine.com for more coverage.