2009/04/14

HSPC's courageous rally comes up short



HSPC lost its opening game of the new Tokyo Petanque League season on Saturday, falling 5-3 to host Aoyama after rallying from 4-0 down.

Under perfect weather conditions -- and a playing terrain fit for Martians! -- Aoyama raced out to a dominating lead and appeared destined to sweep all matches before Bob and Vasili started the fight back for HSPC, streaking to a 13-0 victory.

On center court, Greg and Chris eased out to an impressive 10-3 lead against "snipers" Albert and Bernard before the sharp-shooters clawed back into the match. In a game many said was the most exciting petanque game they've ever witnessed, the momentum swung both ways before underdogs Chris and Greg held their nerve to seal a 13-11 victory.

Sensing a draw was there to be had, the experienced duo of Raj and Bob teamed up to tackle nemesis Adrian and Albert, a combination that the HSPC pair hadn't beat at Aoyama in several years. After a surprising 6-point first frame, Bob and Raj won the game 13-6 to bring the dream of a draw closer to reality.

But HSPC's heavenly run ended there, with Chris and Greg struggling to reproduce the magic from the previous game against Mochizuki san and Kurosawa san, falling 13-1.

Kurosawa san, the smiling assassin, deservedly won MVP honors with his 13-1, 13-1 performance.

Thanks to Aoyama for their warm hospitality and congrats on the victory, you were the better team overall.

2009/04/06

Most picturesque petanque piste in the world?





OK, so the lads are a little bit biased on this one but spring in the park is hard to beat. Beneath the blanket of cherry blossoms there's barely space for a game. So in my heart I know Steve and I didn't get thrashed yesterday. :)

Another picturesque piste that comes to mind is the cathedral-like setting of the Place de la Bien-Aimée in Madagascar. Love to play there one day.