Round 1 - Sonny's still got it
Springfield (1568) defeat El Paso (1562)
Boy oh boy, what a game to start the season! Both sides carried wounded to the siren in Prestia (37) and Salem (3) respectively, with El Paso almost pulling off an amazing win through the efforts of Tom Green (133) and captains Merrett (119), Parker (119). As it stands however, Springfield take the W off the back of their own centurions, including Josh Rachele (100) on debut, and of course the man himself Sonny Walters (26) who was the one to drag Springfield in front (thanks to some HGA).
Hawaii (1346) defeated by Bermuda (1530)Some interesting decisions made at team selection by Bermuda, naming players with covid, cooked shoulders and a guy not even on their list anymore! Also Lachie Hunter. Unlike Luke Beveridge though, Bermuda managed to stroll to a convincing win to start the year off right. Boom recruit Lachie Neale (118) and stalwart Travis Boak (115) led from the front, while Hawaii's efforts were dashed by a brutal score from their captain Dayne Zorko (32). At least Rowell (117) looks to be back in touch.
Los Angeles (1803) defeat Arizona (1659)MASSIVE score from Los Angeles, sending an warning to the rest of the league. Taranto (128) led the line in an all-round consistent performance, aside from Charlie Curnow (31) who was still the lowest scorer with HGA! Could this be the year of the Sinners? Arizona put up a respectable score themselves, led by Macrae (120) as always, and carrying Max Lynch (17) along for the ride.
Washington (1399) defeated by Dallas (1625)Carn Dallas. Washington tried to outdo Bermuda in naming donuts, but like in the real game, they fell short. Rozee (21), Ryan (45), Ash (37) and subbed in debutant Josh Ward (44) were just some of many passengers aboard the Washington train, while Gawn (79) disappointed as captain. On Dallas' end, 5 centurions led by an unleashed Patrick Lipinski (117) blazed the way in what was a cruisy victory.
Guadalajara (1683) defeated Calgary (1630)Another close game in the grand final rematch! Guadalajara take revenge for last years decider in a well fought game by both sides. Calgary boasted some ridiculous scores with Houston (150), Petracca (142) and Hall (125) putting in work, but it wasn't enough to make up for passengers Gray (27), Swallow (43), McInerney (43) JOM (49) and Thomas (49) in a polarising display. Guadalajara were far more consistent with Ben Keays (132) contributing and debutant Jack Mead (44) the only straggler.