THL World Cup - Day 2

The World Cup matches have begun, if not yet in earnest.  Lost in the excitement of my long post yesterday I forgot to mention that the logo you see above was brought to you by Diamond.  Saku is also working on updated graphics for the shield phase of the stream among other aspects of the layout.  Huge shoutout to both of these gentlemen for their work.

Group J was the only one in action on Day 2, Monday 8/18.  Three matches were played in total and while nothing has been set in stone, the games have revealed a clearer picture of how this group will shake out.

​Khell defeats Lefty2111 (2-1) - Khell opted not to shield his Priest in this matchup and Lefty knowing Khell's legendary penchant for Anduin banned it away.  Needless to say, the strategy was unsuccessful as Khell picked up the first group 1 without the aid of his favorite class.

Fuel defeats Lefty2111 (2-0) - Fuel would ensure his Priest could be played as he opted to shield it forcing Lefty to take a different approach.  Banning Mage is a reasonably safe option in most cases but Fuel was unfazed and sent Lefty to the ropes with a quick 0-2.

Fuel defeats Khell (2-0) - Fuel was the favorite to win this group and it's clear to see why as he dispatched Khell in 2 games to complete the trinity of matches for the evening.

Group J report:

​Snake has yet to set foot in the virtual tavern but has a pretty clear path ahead for what he must do to advance out of the group.  Fuel would need only 1 game win to clinch his spot in the knockout round from here.  Otherwise,with some careful negotiating we could end up in a 3 way tie for first. Lefty is looking to get a win in his final match and hoping everyone drops in to a 3 way tie for second.  He's not out of it but he'll need to win and get help to get in.

Tonight's Stream:

Match 1 at 9 PM EDT: Saku (0-0) vs SuperMurloc (0-0) GROUP A
Match 2: Billsnyder (0-0) vs Thebigted (0-0) GROUP E

Both matches tonight will kick off their respective groups as each player will try to start their World Cup off on the right foot.