#the three musketeers and ilya

[polikszena]

Ficlet advent calendar - Christmas in Richmond-upon-Thames

In this post you can find my favourite Ted Lasso-related chapters of the previous advent calendar challenges. You can access them by clicking on the fic’s title.

Substitute Santa

Fandom: Ted Lasso Characters: Ms Bowen, Phoebe Word Count: 596 Rating: Teen and up audiences Warnings: Stronger language Summary: Ms Bowen organizes a Santa Claus event for her class, but Janey McCabe's dad, who was supposed to play Santa falls ill and she has to find someone else. However, the only person available has only one thing in common with Santa Claus: they are both men.

Father and son

Fandom: Ted Lasso Characters: Trent Crimm, Michael Crimm, Sheila Crimm Word Count: 1288 Rating: Teen and up audiences Summary:  It’s Trent Crimm’s first Christmas after his divorce and the first time he faces his parents as a divorced man. He’s afraid what his father will say as they go to the garage for firewood, and he cannot believe his ears when Michael Crimm finally expresses his opinion. Sets several years before the events in Ted Lasso.

Greyhounds on ice

Fandom: Ted Lasso Characters: Dani Rojas, Jamie Tartt, Isaac McAdoo Relationships: Jamie Tartt & Dani Rojas Word Count: 581 Rating: Teen and up audiences Summary:  The players of A.F.C. Richmond go to the local ice skating rink, but Dani Rojas has never skated before. He is rather nervous, but Jamie Tartt does his best to help him.

Toy shop

Fandom: Ted Lasso Characters: Trent Crimm, Roy Kent Word Count: 669 Rating: Teen and up audiences Summary: Trent Crimm is looking for a Christmas present for his daughter at the local toy shop where he stumbles upon Roy Kent who wants to buy something for his niece.

Dancing with the boss

Fandom: Ted Lasso, Eurovision Song Contest - The Story of Fire Saga, Kingsman Characters: Ted Lasso, Coach Beard, Alexander Lemtov, Roxy Morton, Rebecca Welton, Keeley Jones Relationships: Ted Lasso & Coach Beard, Rebecca Welton & Keeley Jones, Ted Lasso & Rebecca Welton, Roxy Morton & Alexander Lemtov Word Count: 1970 Rating: Teen and up audiences Summary:  Ted Lasso and Coach Beard go to Alexander Lemtov’s Christmas party. To their surprise, Rebecca and Keeley are there as well, so Ted gets a waltz with the boss.

Christmas Eve dinner

Fandom: Ted Lasso Characters: Trent Crimm, Ted Lasso, Michelle Taylor (OFC), Laura Taylor (OFC), Sophie Taylor-Crimm Relationships: Trent Crimm & Ted Lasso, Trent Crimm & Michelle Taylor, Trent Crimm & Laura Taylor Word Count: 2580 Rating: Teen and up audiences Summary:  When Trent Crimm invited Ted Lasso to his Christmas Eve dinner, he was pretty sure he wouldn’t come. But there he is, just about to find out what a disaster Trent Crimm could be. Also, in this chapter he meets Trent’s daughter and her two mothers.

[ojacksonscohen]

Hellooo! I saw your post about getting out of a book slump and reading loads this year. I was wondering if you could share a list of your favourite ones this year!

I seriously love all your content you post and wish you nothing but the best!

ahhh this is the nicest message!!! thank you sm. i realized after i started writing this list it was long so i tried to organize it a bit! if you have any questions about any of them hit me up 😈 non-fiction - i heard you paint houses, charles brandt (been obsessed with the mob since i was little, absolute weirdo child) - jews don’t count, david baddiel - bad blood, john carreyrou - kitchen confidential, anthony bourdain

poetry / playscripts - bright dead things, ada limon - dancing in odessa, ilya kaminsky - anecdotal evidence, wendy cope - postcolonial love poem, natalie diaz - cock, mike bartlett (play) on its own, a fairly weak script that’s core concept is “is bisexuality real?” HOWEVER i got my hands on the audio version of the 2009 production with andrew scott, ben whishaw and katherine parkinson and it is absolutely marvelous!!! totally elevates the writing imo - cat on a hot tin roof, tennessee williams (play) - fleabag, the scriptures, phoebe waller-bridge (script)

graphic novels i don’t really read a lot of graphic novels but while trying to break my slump i wanted to be more open to different types of fiction! most of these are short series (5 volumes or less!) - maus I & II, art spiegelman (read in the first half of the year when it became a banned book. devastating and beautiful) - the book tour, andi watson - the delicacy, james albon - the me you love in the dark, skottie young

fiction ok this is long but i wanted to give you my (brief) thoughts on each one!!! the bright lands, john fram (horror) a quarterback goes missing and his brother, shamed out of their small town ten years ago for being gay, returns to find him. this one is hands down the best book i’ve read this year & been chasing the high of reading it since i finished!!! and OKAY i understand that maybe doesn’t sound exciting but trust me it’s a fucking banger and so worth all the football talk, please read it!!!! - thin air, michelle paver (horror, ghosts!) michelle paver is my no 1 arctic ghost queen!!! imo not as good as dark matter, but still so so good. - the last house on needless street, catriona ward (horror) batshit insane, go into this as blind as possible, but be warned it’s v trigger heavy. If you have any q about them i will try to answer as non spoilery as possible. - the hacienda, isabel canas (horror, ghosts!) feels very ‘rebecca’ in the beginning but swiftly moves into it’s own realm of magical realism and the sexual tension between beatriz and the priest that helps her....oof. the ending made me cry. - the last thing to burn, will dean (horror, psychological thriller) big fan of will’s tuva series but his stand alones have been hit and miss (didn’t care for first born) but this one was suffocating, i devoured it in a day. - the count of monte cristo, alexandre dumas (classic, adventure) i read the three musketeers last year and enjoyed it, but absolutely adored the count! dumas has a compelling voice that makes reading 1200 pages fly by - the daughter of doctor moreau, silvia moreno-garcia (science fiction, retelling) much more science fiction-y then i usually go for but i ended up enjoying it more than i thought! - dracula, bram stoker (classic, horror) i mean we all read it this year right! jon x mina 4ever - dubliners, james joyce (classic, short stories) can’t say i enjoyed all the stories in this collection, (my faves were araby, eveline, a little cloud, clay and the dead) but i listened to it via audio read by andrew scott…. absolutely stunnin - small things like these, claire keegan (historical fiction, novella) a sweet christmas time book about ireland's infamous magdalene laundries. ends on a very uplifting note!!

would love to hear what your favourites have been!!! love giving and receiving book recs so pls 🙏

[justcallmecappy]

team "surana has a huge crush on Anders" for me too! Ilya, Anders, and Jowan were the three musketeers in my canon, and were all like. just barely platonic? triad. Lots of love there. But yeah. How could any character look at Anders and not fall in love with him? Like, come on!

Yesss~!! 🥰 I love how the Circle mage origin gives us a chance to headcanon a deeper relationship between the Warden and Anders even before he becomes a party companion.

My Maerhyn Surana had been nursing a huge crush on Anders (bordering on hero worship) the whole time he was at the Circle, and frequently daydreamed elaborate fantasies where Anders would take him along on one of his escape attempts and they would leave the Circle together.

Sadly, Anders was completely oblivious to Maerhyn's feelings — Anders had fallen in love with Karl, and so only regarded Maerhyn fondly as a younger brother. 🥲

Realizing that Anders would never return his feelings the same way broke poor Maerhyn's little heart. He abandoned all his fantasies of escaping Kinloch, and resigned himself to a fate of life in the Circle (Maerhyn Surana, melodramatic?? Noooo, not him, never! 😂).

Part of the reason Maerhyn so willingly helped Jowan destroy his phylactery to escape the Circle is because it was a life he wanted but denied for himself, lol~

Thank you for the ask! I'm so happy there are more people with Circle mage Wardens who loved Anders, lol~ I'd like to hear more about your Warden Surana's relationship with Anders 🥰❤️

[ehghtyseven]

e.malkin71geno comedy club [x]

[junker-town]

Each MLS team in 2021, previewed by the experts who know them best

Previewing the new MLS season by the people who know their teams best.

MLS enters its 26th season still trying to figure out exactly what it is, but probably stronger than it ever has been before in terms of its standing on the world stage. No, it’s not yet a “league of choice” — something Commissioner Don Garber has long promised — but it is financially stable and competitive from top to bottom, something few other leagues anywhere can boast right now.

Once considered a bit of a retirement league, MLS continues to bring in more and more international-quality players either in the primes of their careers or on the upswing. They’ve also got three new stadiums opening this year, one of which will house a brand new team.

We reached out to our team blogs — and a few other subject experts — to explain why their teams are worth watching this year.

Eastern Conference

Atlanta United

For all the completely understandable reasons that Atlanta United fans may have checked out last season, this may be a season in which fans can’t look away. Everything about the team feels reinvigorated, from the coaching staff to the new and returning players. Atlanta United set a low bar after failing to reach the playoffs in a season in which 10 (!) teams from each conference qualified. The season may not be an instant success from day one in terms of results, but it should be a highly entertaining product on the field.

Josef Martinez is poised to make his return, George Bello could have a breakout season under new head coach Gabriel Heinze and Ezequiel Barco will be itching to show teams in Europe his quality. Why shouldn’t you be excited? Even if the team doesn’t win any trophies, Atlanta United’s tactical setup and philosophy should be exciting enough in itself to make this season so much more fun than 2020. Oh yeah, and there’s the whole thing about fans potentially returning to stadiums across the league. - Joe Patrick, Dirty South Soccer

Chicago Fire

Gaston Gimenez and Alvaro Medran gave the Fire one of the best midfield combos in MLS last season. They’re both back, and they both have a year of experience in MLS under their belts. Playing in front of them will likely be Luka Stojanovic, who played all of 60 minutes in 2020 before a season ending knee injury. Stojanovic should provide both a scoring punch, and more creativity in the attack, two things he was signed to add before his injury. Mauricio Pineda, who went from Homegrown signing, to the team’s leader in minutes played, to the Fire’s Defender of the Year, should continue to improve in 2021. Veteran Johan Kappelhof is back after an injury plagued 2020, looks as fit as ever, and may actually see time in defensive midfield. And Robert Beric, who was one of the hottest strikers in MLS at the end of last season, should pick up where he left off in 2021.

Last season was a mess at times, and the team didn’t put together many complete, 90 minute performances. This season will be different for the Fire. As defender Miguel Navarro said recently, “This year, there aren’t any excuses.” - Patrick McCraney, Hot Time in Old Town

FC Cincinnati

FC Cincinnati has got just about everything you need for an entertaining season. They’ve got some of the biggest crowds in the league, passionate and loud fans willing their team on. They’ve got a brand new home with the team opening up their very own stadium in the historic West End neighborhood in the center of the city. The club’s got some of the flashiest and most expensive attacking talent in the league in the likes of Brenner and Lucho Acosta. And, finally FC Cincy has that bit of dysfunction that you need to keep everybody on their toes.

Look, the team’s got the talent potential to legitimately be a good team in MLS. But that’s only come with the team’s own self-inflicted hardships. That means that, while it’s hard to make predictions, it’s definitely safe to say that the club is going to have its ups and downs. Success will come down to whether the team can make that dance on that precarious line between success and catastrophe. Fans will certainly be hoping the team lands on the right side of that line. But however it ends, it’s going to be quite the trip. - Adnan Ilyas

Columbus Crew

The easy answer for why to watch the Crew is that the team is the defending MLS Cup champions. What makes the Black & Gold even more exciting is that they managed to improve over the offseason. The Crew’s offense was already fun to watch with MLS Cup MVP Lucas Zelarayan, U.S. international Gyasi Zardes and Portuguese winger Pedro Santos, but Columbus added one of the top scorers in MLS history in Bradley Wright-Phillips and winger Kevin Molino.

The team also became deeper with acquisitions of Perry Kitchen in the midfield to go along with Darlington Nagbe and Artur and Marlon Hairston to back up Harrison Afful at right back. It’s hard to win an MLS Cup and get better but it very much looks like the Crew did just that this offseason. - Patrick Murphy, Massive Report

Inter Miami

You should keep an eye out for Inter Miami this year because of settled expectations. After years of controversy around rushed stadium plans, an overhyped transfer mindset, and a rushed roster; Miami are ready to settle in.

Miami’s shine wore off quickly last season. The David Beckham owned and marketed squad never seemed comfortable under Diego Alonso. The Uruguayan coach was quickly sacked after the team’s tenth place finish.

In comes Phil Neville, to no one’s surprise, and now Beckham has his man and no excuses. The ex-Juventus duo of Gonzalo Higuain and Blaise Matuidi should be more motivated than ever after uncharacteristically poor seasons. A long offseason can only do two well-seasoned… - Josh Sutter

CF Montreal

Sporting Director, Olivier Renard has been successful previously in Belgium with player recruitment. With each of KV Mechelen and more especially Standard Liege, he generated significant profits from recruiting, shrewdly, players that each club was able to develop and sell-on at significant profit.

The Belgian is optimistic about the new season and feels confident CF Montreal will make progress. Although fans and media may still express doubt over the quality of the new workforce, one thing that everyone agrees on is that Renard’s prudence has ensured more than adequate cover for every position. He’s also recruited players for similar positions with differing attributes, providing greater flexibility of systems for the coach. - Paul Vance, Mount Royal Soccer

Nashville SC

After a successful inaugural season that saw the Boys in Gold reach the MLS Cup Eastern Conference Semifinals, Nashville SC is back looking to build on its success and establish themselves as a contender for the foreseeable future.

SC had a phenomenal year defensively allowing .96 goals a game, the best mark by an expansion team in MLS history. Nashville was also third in goals allowed with 22, and SC has one of the better backlines in MLS led by centerbacks Dave Romney, Walker Zimmerman, the reigning MLS Defender of the Year, and keeper Joe Willis who at age 33 had the best season of his career.

With a strong backline allowing for more chances on the offensive end, expect Nashville SC to challenge for a top-five regular season finish in the Eastern Conference. - Zachary Junda

New England Revolution

The New England Revolution are coming off a disappointing loss in the Eastern Conference Finals. The only way they can be pleased with their performance in 2021 is by making the MLS Cup.

New England actually improved their squad with the acquisitions of Arnor Traustason, Christian Mafla, and Wilfrid Kaptoum. The Revs also have key players like Matt Turner, Henry Kessler, and Tajon Buchanan along with DP’s Carles Gil and Gustavo Bou returning to the squad.

In 2020 Revs fans saw just how much Gil means to the club. Once he returned from injury the club looked completely different. They had their heart and soul back on the pitch.

This season New England should compete for an MLS Cup. With how deep the squad is there should be plenty of goals scored and some exciting soccer being played throughout the 2021 season. - Sam Minton, The Bent Musket

New York City FC

What NYCFC lack in star power, they more than make up for in fundamentally sound role players and younger guys who are beginning to show exactly how high their ceilings really are. Maxi Moralez is one of the more fun playmakers in the league to watch. James Sands is a stud Homegrown defensive midfielder and will probably be moving to Europe sooner rather than later. And Anton Tinnerholm is by far the best right back in the league.

Another fun tidbit is that as of right now, New York City has two free Designated Player slots. This means there is the potential of some eye-opening additions once the summer window opens. Even if they aren’t the best in the league — or even their conference — right out of the gate, there are few MLS clubs with higher upside than NYCFC. - Christian Smith, Hudson River Blue

New York Red Bulls

The Red Bulls have never been more committed to the energy drink soccer philosophy than they will be this season. Former Salzburg academy and reserves manager Gerhard Struber was recruited from Barnsley by Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz personally, and former Wolverhampton Wanderers sporting director Kevin Thelwell has brought in a diverse array of young signings for him to pursue an extreme high-press scheme with.

The Red Bulls will continue to disappoint fans seeking Hollywood signings, but the specific attributes and profiles sought out by the club’s new technical leadership promise to give the team a coherent and dynamic tactical approach. It’s an approach that could potentially run other MLS teams off the field, the way New York did in the Supporters Shield-winning campaigns of not too long ago. - Ben Cork, Once a Metro

Orlando City

Simply put, Orlando City are fun. They play an exciting brand of possession-based soccer, typically building out of the back but perfectly willing to have Robin Jansson or Oriol Rosell send a long ball out wide to catch the opposition napping and create a quick transition opportunity.

Up and down the roster, there are exciting players at almost every position. That starts with Nani, the one-time Portugal international. Daryl Dike was a revelation at forward last season. Chris Mueller is a hard-working and creative player with a motor that only runs at full power. Pereyra is a sorcerer with the ball because, as Falcon says, a sorcerer is a wizard without a hat. And let’s not forget Ruan’s (and Benji Michel’s) blazing speed, Junior Urso’s passion, Pedro Gallese’s highlight saves, or Moutinho’s magical crosses. - Michael Citro, The Mane Land

Toronto FC

On paper, Toronto FC are still projected to be one of the best teams in MLS, led of course by the reigning MVP: Alejandro Pozuelo. Michael Bradley is expected to contribute more offensively than in years past, while Jozy Altidore appears to have bought in to new head coach Chris Armas’ vision, as he’s apparently working hard and pushing others in training in hopes of bouncing back after a disappointing 2021 campaign.

The club is also extremely high on some of their young Canadian talent, like Ayo Akinola — the league-leader in goals per 90 last season — Jayden Nelson, Ralph Priso, and Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty, as TFC arguably boast the best prospect cupboard in all of MLS. The youngsters are expected to earn quite a few minutes under Armas, which should be intriguing to fans who have been waiting to see what some of their local talent could do. - Michael Singh, Waking the Red

Western Conference

Austin FC

If preseason is any indicator of how this team will approach the offensive side of the game, and goals on goals on goals is your kind of thing, then Austin FC may just be worth it. Austin has shown they’re willing to attack, throw numbers forward and certainly not lacking in any creative ideas at the moment.

Austin hasn’t lacked in finding goals during the first two pre-season games against Houston and Dallas (total of 5 goals scored) and are finding their offensive joy from everyone across the attacking line. Plus, you just never know when Matthew McConaughey is going to make some kind of cameo. - Jason Poon

Colorado Rapids

Last season, MLS adjusted the playoff qualifications more or less for the Rapids since they would be playing significantly fewer games due to a COVID-19 outbreak within the club. Despite playing just 18 games in 2020 (every other team in the conference played 21-23), Colorado still made the playoffs the old-fashioned way: overall points. Sure, they didn’t look great and got bounced in the first round by Minnesota United, but they finished the season on a three-game winning streak AND won the Rocky Mountain Cup for the first time since 2015.

The front office may not have signed a DP in the offseason like fans wanted, but without losing any key players and only bringing in more talent, spirits should be high in what will hopefully be Robin Fraser’s first full regular season as head coach. If things go how they’ve been trending over the past season and a half, the Rapids will do well and make it to post-season again. - Abbie Mood Lang, Burgundy Wave

FC Dallas

Normally it would be the Homegrown players and which ones will be next up. But after transfers for Reggie Cannon and Bryan Reynolds last season, it appears that while the pipeline of academy talent is still there for FC Dallas it may be their young South American talent that is more intriguing this season to keep an eye out on. Jadar Obrian was the leading scoring in the Colombian top flight last year, while Freddy Vargas appears to be a dead-ball specialist on the wing that the club has lacked since the departure of veteran defender Reto Ziegler.

If they can tie it all together with the Homegrowns like Jesus Ferreira, Tanner Tessmann, Ricardo Pepi and a returning Paxton Pomykal, this club could make some serious noise in MLS. - Drew Epperley, Big D Soccer

Houston Dynamo

You will want to tune in to Dynamo games because there really is no telling what is going to happen. Houston can look like an unbeatable juggernaut at times when they are playing at home and other times when on the road, they will look like a group of guys who just learned how to play the sport. You’ll also want to watch Dynamo games to see that maturation of Tab Ramos as a coach and how his tactics and system begin to become ingrained in this team.

They may not be the best team, heck, they might not even be that good, but Ramos is going to have them playing his way and playing hard. The Dynamo are on the path to becoming a relevant team again and at times it may not be pretty, but you’re going to see a team learning, growing, and becoming the embodiment of their manager out on the field. - Dustyn Richardson, Dynamo Theory

LAFC

This is the most exciting team to watch in MLS, period. If you’re a neutral, you’ll love the goalfests that LAFC frequently are involved in. They not only score a ton themselves, but two of the last three seasons have also conceded bucketloads. You know how every coach who has an introductory press conference says, “We want to play exciting, attacking, front-foot soccer”? That’s what this team does. It can be nervy for fans, but it’s also fun to root for a team that can seems capable of scoring four goals against any opponent.

Beyond the goals and the high-octane style, LAFC have a growing group of young and young-ish talent from around the world that is showing just how successful the club’s scouting network has been thus far. Yes, they’ve struggled to get the 3rd Designated Player right, and their current one, Brian Rodriguez, may or may not return from his current loan to the Spanish second flight, but when the first choice XI is available they are a ton of fun to watch and they are rightly considered title contenders in 2021. - Alicia Rodriguez, Angels on Parade

LA Galaxy

There’s been holes in the roster in the past, to be sure, but again, this squad has been better than their performances have shown. If they can be back to their best — if Chicharito can finally find traction in MLS and become a consistent scorer, if Sebastian Lletget can play as well for club as he does for country, if the defense can stop shipping goals, if Jonathan dos Santos can play at Best XI standard again, if Victor Vazquez can stay healthy, if newcomer Samuel Grandsir can have an immediate impact, if a Homegrown player or two emerge to be regular contributors — then they can be near the top of the standings in relatively short order.

It won’t all be fixed overnight, but the combination of Vanney’s arrival and the roster re-tooling, plus hopes of bounce back seasons for several players means there is considerable optimism that the Galaxy have finally turned a page and will be elite again soon. - Alicia Rodriguez, LAG Confidential

Minnesota United

Minnesota United comes into 2021 off what is by far the club’s best season since entering MLS in 2017 and best since overall their 2012 NASL runner-up season. A Western Conference final appearance, and ultimately late loss, capped off a weird year.

While MNUFC might be lacking a major striker and scoring threat up top, they definitely aren’t lacking in other areas. The Loons’ midfield from front to back is filled with great players and depth. Adrian Heath’s typical 4-2-3-1 and alternate 4-4-2 formations gives Minnesota plenty of options with midfielders Osvaldo Alonso, Jann Gregus, Emanuel Reynoso, Ethan Finlay, Robin Lod, and Hassani Dotson leading the way. Behind them is a stout set of defenders, albeit one that may once again be lacking Ike Opara. However this defense showed in 2020 how capable they can be even without the Ace of the back line on the pitch. And clearing out the look is the 1-2 combination of goalkeepers in Dayne St. Clair and Tyler Miller. That 1-2 punch is surely the deepest set of goalkeepers in the league.

Provided the defense holds its 2020 form and Heath’s squad can create some scoring the Loons could be a threat near the top of the Western Conference and an overall fantastic team to watch in 2021. - Ashle Norling, E Pluribus Loonum

Portland Timbers

There are plenty of reasons for this, but let’s start with arguably the most important: Sebastian Blanco is back, or at least will be back soon. The best player on the Timbers was absent for the majority of the 2020 regular season, and Portland were still good enough to finish in the top three of the Western Conference. They had one of the best offenses in MLS last regular season without Seba. With Seba, they earned a Concacaf Champions League Tournament appearance thanks to Portland’s victory in the MLS is Back Tournament last August. The prospect of a Timbers squad with Blanco back is exciting in and of itself.

And there are other storylines, too. What’s going on at the No. 9 spot? Jeremy Ebobisse is a talented young player, but are the Timbers going to wind up starting Felip Mora instead? Will Father Time catch up to Diego Valeri and Diego Chara or will they continue to be two of the best in MLS history at their respective positions? Will the defense continue to give up goals in the final 15 minutes? All these questions need answering, and the best way to do so is to watch the Timbers. - Kyle Garcia, Stumptown Footy

Real Salt Lake

There’s a huge amount of untapped potential here. Albert Rusnak could be a 10-goal, 10-assist player, even if he wasn’t last year; Pablo Ruiz has been a revelation in the midfield; Rubio Rubin might prove a hugely underrated signing; and Bobby Wood could find form again.

The narratives around so many players could prove a level of excitement we haven’t felt in years, and there’s a real chance the team feels untethered from ownership. This could be the year things start to look up again. - Matt Montgomery, RSL Soapbox

San Jose Earthquakes

In the Matias Almeyda era, games have largely been goal-fests. Beyond that, the Quakes have a self-belief that can sometimes look misguided, but a decade-long track record of coming back in games, plus Almeyda’s ace man management, have combined to make this team believe they are in pretty much any game. Beyond that, Almeyda’s playing style is unique in MLS. A disciple of Marcelo Bielsa, the Earthquakes use a man-marking system and utilizew an incredibly vertical style of play.

They are far more accustomed to chaos than most teams, and while it does fall apart, spectacularly, on occasion, their frantic approach usually unsettles opponents and leads to stretches of beautiful play among the blunt force. If you are a student of tactics then Quakes games are a treat, as you watch the chess match between Almeyda and his opposite number on the other bench. - Alicia Rodriguez, Center Line Soccer

Seattle Sounders

No MLS team has enjoyed the level of sustained success as the Sounders. They’ve qualified for the playoffs in all 12 of their season, have been to 4 of the past 5 MLS Cup finals and won two league titles since Schmetzer took over midway through 2016. While every season has seen at least some turnover among the starters, this year feels different.

There’s reason for concern, but also reason to be excited. The Sounders have a host of young players who could contend for significant minutes this year and a new primary formation for the first time during their current era. If the Sounders are to continue this run of excellence, it will need to be through evolution. That should make them worth watching. - Jeremiah Oshan, Sounder at Heart

Sporting KC

It would be easy to list Alan Pulido and Johnny Russell in the attack as one reason for excitement but it might be the number of homegrowns on the roster that is the most interesting. With 10 of 27 players coming from SKC’s Academy, there will be a lot of youth. Academy products Gianluca Busio and Jaylin Lindsay are looking like regular starters and Daniel Salloi, Felipe Hernandez and Cameron Duke seem slated to get regular time so the team will be young.

But it may be Wilson Harris who scored 4 goals in the first three preseason games and scored consistently for SKC II that could be the surprise and have a breakout year. Add in Tyler Freeman, Grayson Barber and Ozzie Cisneros and there could be a youthful revolution in Kansas City for the next couple seasons. And Puldio and Russell in the attack will still be a great reason to watch as well... - Thad Bell, The Blue Testament

Vancouver Whitecaps

In the absence of an Attacking Midfield talisman, the hope is that Vancouver gets creative with how they create (I know, stick with me). Adding Bruno Gaspar gives the Whitecaps balance at fullback, something they’ve desperately needed. Meanwhile, Deiber Caicedo will complete an all-Colombian winger pairing that Marc Dos Santos has been craving since he first took the job. With these moves, all signs point to a team that is going to spend a lot of time getting busy in wide areas, and that could make for some pretty exciting football. Lurking in the box will be Canadian stallworth Lucas Cavallini. Although last year was tough for the target man, he still scored six goals in a short season, and if the service is even slightly better than last year, there’s no reason he can’t flirt with the 15-goal mark.

Finally, if the defenders and goalkeepers stay healthy, the Whitecaps could have exciting position battles at both spots. Olympic Qualifying standout Derek Cornelius is battling Serbian International Ranko Veselinovic for a place at centerback, while two young Canadians in Max Crepeau and Thomas Hasal will vie for a spot between the sticks. - Sam Rowan, 86 Forever

[dani-qrt]

Highlights of French Open second day

PARIS (Reuters) – Former world number one Novak Djokovic launched his French Open campaign with a comfortable 6-3 6-4 6-4 first-round victory over Brazilian qualifier Rogerio Dutra Silva on Monday.

Tennis – French Open – Roland Garros, Paris, France – May 28, 2018 Spain’s Rafael Nadal during his first round match against Italy’s Simone Bolelli REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes

The 31-year-old Serb, seeded 20th, went behind at the start of the first two sets but recovered well to overcome world number 134 Dutra Silva.

Djokovic, who has not won a grand slam since his victory at Roland Garros in 2016, will face Spain’s Jaume Munar in the second round.

Another former champion Stan Wawrinka, who has struggled with a persistent knee injury, was beaten 6-2 3-6 4-6 7-6(5) 6-3 by big-hitting Spaniard Guillermo Garcia-Lopez.

World number one Rafa Nadal, chasing a record-extending 11th French Open title, took a two-set lead but was a break down in the third against Italian Simone Bolelli before rain halted play.

The pair will return on Tuesday with Nadal leading 6-4 6-3 0-3.

In the women’s draw, world number two Caroline Wozniacki overcame a slow start to beat American Danielle Collins 7-6(2) 6-1.

Twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova came back from a set down to beat Paraguayan Veronica Cepede Royg 3-6 6-1 7-5.

READ MORE:

Djokovic’s bid for second French Open off to glum-faced start

Great Dane Wozniacki in solid form early in Paris

Hairdo goes Paire-shaped as Frenchman advances in Paris

Mercury rises on Lenglen and Mladenovic melts down

Wawrinka determined to reclaim place among elite after hitting new low

Little-known Paraguayan pushes Kvitova to the edge

Trungelliti’s 1,000km roadtrip with Granny ends in Grand Slam win

Kvitova proves to be ultimate survivor as she lives to fight another day

May 28, 2018, Paris, France: Novak Djokovic (SRB) in action during his match against Rogerio Dutra Silva (BRA) on day two of the 2018 French Open at Roland Garros. Mandatory Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports

Azarenka laments lack of matches after early French Open exit

Osaka shows best and worst in Paris first-round win

Highlights from day two of the French Open tennis championships on Monday (all times GMT):

1745 PLAY SUSPENDED DUE TO RAIN

Play was suspended on all courts due to rain, with defending champion Rafa Nadal leading 6-4 6-3 0-3 against Italian Simone Bolelli on Court Philippe Chatrier.

1545 WOZNIACKI RACES INTO ROUND TWO

World number two Caroline Wozniacki moved past American Danielle Collins 7-6(2) 6-1 in the opening round.

The Dane will next face Spanish qualifier Georgina Garcia Perez, who knocked out Dalila Jakupovic 6-3 6-4 to claim her first main-draw victory at a Grand Slam.

1410 BAGHDATIS BREAKS DOWN IN TEARS

Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis suffered an emotional meltdown after he retired hurt against Santiago Giraldo of Colombia in the first round.

Baghdatis, the 2006 Australian Open finalist, was leading 6-3 4-3 when he struggled to move on court before asking for a medical timeout. The 32-year-old broke down in tears and went on to smash his racket while waiting for the physiotherapist to arrive.

After losing the first two points on his serve in the eighth game, Baghdatis decided to pull the plug on his campaign.

1400 THIEM CONTINUES FINE FORM

Seventh seed Dominic Thiem, who lifted his second title of the season in Lyon last week, raced to a 6-2 6-4 6-1 victory over Belarusian Ilya Ivashka.

The two-time French Open semi-finalist will next face promising Greek teenager Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Slideshow (8 Images)

“He’s one very good, upcoming player. Going to be top 10, for sure, in the future and playing already unbelievable,” Thiem said. “But, yeah, hope that I can have an advantage over best of five.”

1345 DJOKOVIC ADVANCES

Former champion Novak Djokovic began his campaign with 37 winners in a 6-3 6-4 6-4 win over Brazil’s Rogerio Dutra Silva.

The Serb, who lifted the Musketeers’ Cup in 2016, has reached the second round for the 14th consecutive year in Paris.

1340 TRUNGELLITI SECURES MASSIVE PAYDAY

The 1,000km roadtrip from Barcelona to Paris was well worth it for Marco Trungelliti, who overcame Australia’s Bernard Tomic 6-4 5-7 6-4 6-4 in the opening round and guaranteed himself a massive payday.

The International Tennis Federation are looking for a clarification from the Grand Slam Board on the rules for prize money distribution, but said the Argentine lucky loser will at least get 79,000 euros ($91,758) for reaching the second round.

1255 WAWRINKA BOWS OUT

Last year’s runner-up Stan Wawrinka was beaten by big-hitting Spaniard Guillermo Garcia-Lopez 6-2 3-6 4-6 7-6(5) 6-3 in the opening round match which lasted three and a half hours.

Wawrinka, who won the French Open title in 2015, suffered a second loss to Garcia-Lopez in Paris after losing at the same stage four years ago.

1120 KVITOVA SURVIVES SCARE TO REACH SECOND ROUND

Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova rallied from a set down to beat Paraguayan Veronica Cepede Royg 3-6 6-1 7-5 in a two-hour thriller on Court Philippe Chatrier.

When reminded of her current winning streak on clay, Kvitova said: “It’s 12 matches… but I’m still so far from Rafa (Nadal) so I’ll just keep trying.”

1110 AZARENKA SUFFERS EARLY EXIT

Former world number one Victoria Azarenka struggled for rhythm in a 7-5 7-5 defeat by Czech Katerina Siniakova in the first round.

The 28-year-old Belarusian, who reached the semi-finals in 2013, committed 38 unforced errors in her first match at Roland Garros in two years.

1045 OSAKA POWERS PAST KENIN

Japan’s Naomi Osaka fired 10 aces on her way to a 6-2 7-5 first-round victory over American Sofia Kenin. The 21st seed will next face Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan.

($1 = 0.8610 euros)

Compiled by Hardik Vyas in Bengaluru,; Editing by Ed Osmond

The post Highlights of French Open second day appeared first on World The News.

from World The News https://ift.tt/2IQbpBM via Online News

[dragnews]

Highlights of French Open second day

PARIS (Reuters) – Former world number one Novak Djokovic launched his French Open campaign with a comfortable 6-3 6-4 6-4 first-round victory over Brazilian qualifier Rogerio Dutra Silva on Monday.

Tennis – French Open – Roland Garros, Paris, France – May 28, 2018 Spain’s Rafael Nadal during his first round match against Italy’s Simone Bolelli REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes

The 31-year-old Serb, seeded 20th, went behind at the start of the first two sets but recovered well to overcome world number 134 Dutra Silva.

Djokovic, who has not won a grand slam since his victory at Roland Garros in 2016, will face Spain’s Jaume Munar in the second round.

Another former champion Stan Wawrinka, who has struggled with a persistent knee injury, was beaten 6-2 3-6 4-6 7-6(5) 6-3 by big-hitting Spaniard Guillermo Garcia-Lopez.

World number one Rafa Nadal, chasing a record-extending 11th French Open title, took a two-set lead but was a break down in the third against Italian Simone Bolelli before rain halted play.

The pair will return on Tuesday with Nadal leading 6-4 6-3 0-3.

In the women’s draw, world number two Caroline Wozniacki overcame a slow start to beat American Danielle Collins 7-6(2) 6-1.

Twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova came back from a set down to beat Paraguayan Veronica Cepede Royg 3-6 6-1 7-5.

READ MORE:

Djokovic’s bid for second French Open off to glum-faced start

Great Dane Wozniacki in solid form early in Paris

Hairdo goes Paire-shaped as Frenchman advances in Paris

Mercury rises on Lenglen and Mladenovic melts down

Wawrinka determined to reclaim place among elite after hitting new low

Little-known Paraguayan pushes Kvitova to the edge

Trungelliti’s 1,000km roadtrip with Granny ends in Grand Slam win

Kvitova proves to be ultimate survivor as she lives to fight another day

May 28, 2018, Paris, France: Novak Djokovic (SRB) in action during his match against Rogerio Dutra Silva (BRA) on day two of the 2018 French Open at Roland Garros. Mandatory Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports

Azarenka laments lack of matches after early French Open exit

Osaka shows best and worst in Paris first-round win

Highlights from day two of the French Open tennis championships on Monday (all times GMT):

1745 PLAY SUSPENDED DUE TO RAIN

Play was suspended on all courts due to rain, with defending champion Rafa Nadal leading 6-4 6-3 0-3 against Italian Simone Bolelli on Court Philippe Chatrier.

1545 WOZNIACKI RACES INTO ROUND TWO

World number two Caroline Wozniacki moved past American Danielle Collins 7-6(2) 6-1 in the opening round.

The Dane will next face Spanish qualifier Georgina Garcia Perez, who knocked out Dalila Jakupovic 6-3 6-4 to claim her first main-draw victory at a Grand Slam.

1410 BAGHDATIS BREAKS DOWN IN TEARS

Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis suffered an emotional meltdown after he retired hurt against Santiago Giraldo of Colombia in the first round.

Baghdatis, the 2006 Australian Open finalist, was leading 6-3 4-3 when he struggled to move on court before asking for a medical timeout. The 32-year-old broke down in tears and went on to smash his racket while waiting for the physiotherapist to arrive.

After losing the first two points on his serve in the eighth game, Baghdatis decided to pull the plug on his campaign.

1400 THIEM CONTINUES FINE FORM

Seventh seed Dominic Thiem, who lifted his second title of the season in Lyon last week, raced to a 6-2 6-4 6-1 victory over Belarusian Ilya Ivashka.

The two-time French Open semi-finalist will next face promising Greek teenager Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Slideshow (8 Images)

“He’s one very good, upcoming player. Going to be top 10, for sure, in the future and playing already unbelievable,” Thiem said. “But, yeah, hope that I can have an advantage over best of five.”

1345 DJOKOVIC ADVANCES

Former champion Novak Djokovic began his campaign with 37 winners in a 6-3 6-4 6-4 win over Brazil’s Rogerio Dutra Silva.

The Serb, who lifted the Musketeers’ Cup in 2016, has reached the second round for the 14th consecutive year in Paris.

1340 TRUNGELLITI SECURES MASSIVE PAYDAY

The 1,000km roadtrip from Barcelona to Paris was well worth it for Marco Trungelliti, who overcame Australia’s Bernard Tomic 6-4 5-7 6-4 6-4 in the opening round and guaranteed himself a massive payday.

The International Tennis Federation are looking for a clarification from the Grand Slam Board on the rules for prize money distribution, but said the Argentine lucky loser will at least get 79,000 euros ($91,758) for reaching the second round.

1255 WAWRINKA BOWS OUT

Last year’s runner-up Stan Wawrinka was beaten by big-hitting Spaniard Guillermo Garcia-Lopez 6-2 3-6 4-6 7-6(5) 6-3 in the opening round match which lasted three and a half hours.

Wawrinka, who won the French Open title in 2015, suffered a second loss to Garcia-Lopez in Paris after losing at the same stage four years ago.

1120 KVITOVA SURVIVES SCARE TO REACH SECOND ROUND

Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova rallied from a set down to beat Paraguayan Veronica Cepede Royg 3-6 6-1 7-5 in a two-hour thriller on Court Philippe Chatrier.

When reminded of her current winning streak on clay, Kvitova said: “It’s 12 matches… but I’m still so far from Rafa (Nadal) so I’ll just keep trying.”

1110 AZARENKA SUFFERS EARLY EXIT

Former world number one Victoria Azarenka struggled for rhythm in a 7-5 7-5 defeat by Czech Katerina Siniakova in the first round.

The 28-year-old Belarusian, who reached the semi-finals in 2013, committed 38 unforced errors in her first match at Roland Garros in two years.

1045 OSAKA POWERS PAST KENIN

Japan’s Naomi Osaka fired 10 aces on her way to a 6-2 7-5 first-round victory over American Sofia Kenin. The 21st seed will next face Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan.

($1 = 0.8610 euros)

Compiled by Hardik Vyas in Bengaluru,; Editing by Ed Osmond

The post Highlights of French Open second day appeared first on World The News.

from World The News https://ift.tt/2IQbpBM via Today News

[newestbalance]

Highlights of French Open second day

PARIS (Reuters) – Former world number one Novak Djokovic launched his French Open campaign with a comfortable 6-3 6-4 6-4 first-round victory over Brazilian qualifier Rogerio Dutra Silva on Monday.

Tennis – French Open – Roland Garros, Paris, France – May 28, 2018 Spain’s Rafael Nadal during his first round match against Italy’s Simone Bolelli REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes

The 31-year-old Serb, seeded 20th, went behind at the start of the first two sets but recovered well to overcome world number 134 Dutra Silva.

Djokovic, who has not won a grand slam since his victory at Roland Garros in 2016, will face Spain’s Jaume Munar in the second round.

Another former champion Stan Wawrinka, who has struggled with a persistent knee injury, was beaten 6-2 3-6 4-6 7-6(5) 6-3 by big-hitting Spaniard Guillermo Garcia-Lopez.

World number one Rafa Nadal, chasing a record-extending 11th French Open title, took a two-set lead but was a break down in the third against Italian Simone Bolelli before rain halted play.

The pair will return on Tuesday with Nadal leading 6-4 6-3 0-3.

In the women’s draw, world number two Caroline Wozniacki overcame a slow start to beat American Danielle Collins 7-6(2) 6-1.

Twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova came back from a set down to beat Paraguayan Veronica Cepede Royg 3-6 6-1 7-5.

READ MORE:

Djokovic’s bid for second French Open off to glum-faced start

Great Dane Wozniacki in solid form early in Paris

Hairdo goes Paire-shaped as Frenchman advances in Paris

Mercury rises on Lenglen and Mladenovic melts down

Wawrinka determined to reclaim place among elite after hitting new low

Little-known Paraguayan pushes Kvitova to the edge

Trungelliti’s 1,000km roadtrip with Granny ends in Grand Slam win

Kvitova proves to be ultimate survivor as she lives to fight another day

May 28, 2018, Paris, France: Novak Djokovic (SRB) in action during his match against Rogerio Dutra Silva (BRA) on day two of the 2018 French Open at Roland Garros. Mandatory Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports

Azarenka laments lack of matches after early French Open exit

Osaka shows best and worst in Paris first-round win

Highlights from day two of the French Open tennis championships on Monday (all times GMT):

1745 PLAY SUSPENDED DUE TO RAIN

Play was suspended on all courts due to rain, with defending champion Rafa Nadal leading 6-4 6-3 0-3 against Italian Simone Bolelli on Court Philippe Chatrier.

1545 WOZNIACKI RACES INTO ROUND TWO

World number two Caroline Wozniacki moved past American Danielle Collins 7-6(2) 6-1 in the opening round.

The Dane will next face Spanish qualifier Georgina Garcia Perez, who knocked out Dalila Jakupovic 6-3 6-4 to claim her first main-draw victory at a Grand Slam.

1410 BAGHDATIS BREAKS DOWN IN TEARS

Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis suffered an emotional meltdown after he retired hurt against Santiago Giraldo of Colombia in the first round.

Baghdatis, the 2006 Australian Open finalist, was leading 6-3 4-3 when he struggled to move on court before asking for a medical timeout. The 32-year-old broke down in tears and went on to smash his racket while waiting for the physiotherapist to arrive.

After losing the first two points on his serve in the eighth game, Baghdatis decided to pull the plug on his campaign.

1400 THIEM CONTINUES FINE FORM

Seventh seed Dominic Thiem, who lifted his second title of the season in Lyon last week, raced to a 6-2 6-4 6-1 victory over Belarusian Ilya Ivashka.

The two-time French Open semi-finalist will next face promising Greek teenager Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Slideshow (8 Images)

“He’s one very good, upcoming player. Going to be top 10, for sure, in the future and playing already unbelievable,” Thiem said. “But, yeah, hope that I can have an advantage over best of five.”

1345 DJOKOVIC ADVANCES

Former champion Novak Djokovic began his campaign with 37 winners in a 6-3 6-4 6-4 win over Brazil’s Rogerio Dutra Silva.

The Serb, who lifted the Musketeers’ Cup in 2016, has reached the second round for the 14th consecutive year in Paris.

1340 TRUNGELLITI SECURES MASSIVE PAYDAY

The 1,000km roadtrip from Barcelona to Paris was well worth it for Marco Trungelliti, who overcame Australia’s Bernard Tomic 6-4 5-7 6-4 6-4 in the opening round and guaranteed himself a massive payday.

The International Tennis Federation are looking for a clarification from the Grand Slam Board on the rules for prize money distribution, but said the Argentine lucky loser will at least get 79,000 euros ($91,758) for reaching the second round.

1255 WAWRINKA BOWS OUT

Last year’s runner-up Stan Wawrinka was beaten by big-hitting Spaniard Guillermo Garcia-Lopez 6-2 3-6 4-6 7-6(5) 6-3 in the opening round match which lasted three and a half hours.

Wawrinka, who won the French Open title in 2015, suffered a second loss to Garcia-Lopez in Paris after losing at the same stage four years ago.

1120 KVITOVA SURVIVES SCARE TO REACH SECOND ROUND

Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova rallied from a set down to beat Paraguayan Veronica Cepede Royg 3-6 6-1 7-5 in a two-hour thriller on Court Philippe Chatrier.

When reminded of her current winning streak on clay, Kvitova said: “It’s 12 matches… but I’m still so far from Rafa (Nadal) so I’ll just keep trying.”

1110 AZARENKA SUFFERS EARLY EXIT

Former world number one Victoria Azarenka struggled for rhythm in a 7-5 7-5 defeat by Czech Katerina Siniakova in the first round.

The 28-year-old Belarusian, who reached the semi-finals in 2013, committed 38 unforced errors in her first match at Roland Garros in two years.

1045 OSAKA POWERS PAST KENIN

Japan’s Naomi Osaka fired 10 aces on her way to a 6-2 7-5 first-round victory over American Sofia Kenin. The 21st seed will next face Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan.

($1 = 0.8610 euros)

Compiled by Hardik Vyas in Bengaluru,; Editing by Ed Osmond

The post Highlights of French Open second day appeared first on World The News.

from World The News https://ift.tt/2IQbpBM via Everyday News

[cleopatrarps]

Highlights of French Open second day

PARIS (Reuters) – Former world number one Novak Djokovic launched his French Open campaign with a comfortable 6-3 6-4 6-4 first-round victory over Brazilian qualifier Rogerio Dutra Silva on Monday.

Tennis – French Open – Roland Garros, Paris, France – May 28, 2018 Spain’s Rafael Nadal during his first round match against Italy’s Simone Bolelli REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes

The 31-year-old Serb, seeded 20th, went behind at the start of the first two sets but recovered well to overcome world number 134 Dutra Silva.

Djokovic, who has not won a grand slam since his victory at Roland Garros in 2016, will face Spain’s Jaume Munar in the second round.

Another former champion Stan Wawrinka, who has struggled with a persistent knee injury, was beaten 6-2 3-6 4-6 7-6(5) 6-3 by big-hitting Spaniard Guillermo Garcia-Lopez.

World number one Rafa Nadal, chasing a record-extending 11th French Open title, took a two-set lead but was a break down in the third against Italian Simone Bolelli before rain halted play.

The pair will return on Tuesday with Nadal leading 6-4 6-3 0-3.

In the women’s draw, world number two Caroline Wozniacki overcame a slow start to beat American Danielle Collins 7-6(2) 6-1.

Twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova came back from a set down to beat Paraguayan Veronica Cepede Royg 3-6 6-1 7-5.

READ MORE:

Djokovic’s bid for second French Open off to glum-faced start

Great Dane Wozniacki in solid form early in Paris

Hairdo goes Paire-shaped as Frenchman advances in Paris

Mercury rises on Lenglen and Mladenovic melts down

Wawrinka determined to reclaim place among elite after hitting new low

Little-known Paraguayan pushes Kvitova to the edge

Trungelliti’s 1,000km roadtrip with Granny ends in Grand Slam win

Kvitova proves to be ultimate survivor as she lives to fight another day

May 28, 2018, Paris, France: Novak Djokovic (SRB) in action during his match against Rogerio Dutra Silva (BRA) on day two of the 2018 French Open at Roland Garros. Mandatory Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports

Azarenka laments lack of matches after early French Open exit

Osaka shows best and worst in Paris first-round win

Highlights from day two of the French Open tennis championships on Monday (all times GMT):

1745 PLAY SUSPENDED DUE TO RAIN

Play was suspended on all courts due to rain, with defending champion Rafa Nadal leading 6-4 6-3 0-3 against Italian Simone Bolelli on Court Philippe Chatrier.

1545 WOZNIACKI RACES INTO ROUND TWO

World number two Caroline Wozniacki moved past American Danielle Collins 7-6(2) 6-1 in the opening round.

The Dane will next face Spanish qualifier Georgina Garcia Perez, who knocked out Dalila Jakupovic 6-3 6-4 to claim her first main-draw victory at a Grand Slam.

1410 BAGHDATIS BREAKS DOWN IN TEARS

Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis suffered an emotional meltdown after he retired hurt against Santiago Giraldo of Colombia in the first round.

Baghdatis, the 2006 Australian Open finalist, was leading 6-3 4-3 when he struggled to move on court before asking for a medical timeout. The 32-year-old broke down in tears and went on to smash his racket while waiting for the physiotherapist to arrive.

After losing the first two points on his serve in the eighth game, Baghdatis decided to pull the plug on his campaign.

1400 THIEM CONTINUES FINE FORM

Seventh seed Dominic Thiem, who lifted his second title of the season in Lyon last week, raced to a 6-2 6-4 6-1 victory over Belarusian Ilya Ivashka.

The two-time French Open semi-finalist will next face promising Greek teenager Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Slideshow (8 Images)

“He’s one very good, upcoming player. Going to be top 10, for sure, in the future and playing already unbelievable,” Thiem said. “But, yeah, hope that I can have an advantage over best of five.”

1345 DJOKOVIC ADVANCES

Former champion Novak Djokovic began his campaign with 37 winners in a 6-3 6-4 6-4 win over Brazil’s Rogerio Dutra Silva.

The Serb, who lifted the Musketeers’ Cup in 2016, has reached the second round for the 14th consecutive year in Paris.

1340 TRUNGELLITI SECURES MASSIVE PAYDAY

The 1,000km roadtrip from Barcelona to Paris was well worth it for Marco Trungelliti, who overcame Australia’s Bernard Tomic 6-4 5-7 6-4 6-4 in the opening round and guaranteed himself a massive payday.

The International Tennis Federation are looking for a clarification from the Grand Slam Board on the rules for prize money distribution, but said the Argentine lucky loser will at least get 79,000 euros ($91,758) for reaching the second round.

1255 WAWRINKA BOWS OUT

Last year’s runner-up Stan Wawrinka was beaten by big-hitting Spaniard Guillermo Garcia-Lopez 6-2 3-6 4-6 7-6(5) 6-3 in the opening round match which lasted three and a half hours.

Wawrinka, who won the French Open title in 2015, suffered a second loss to Garcia-Lopez in Paris after losing at the same stage four years ago.

1120 KVITOVA SURVIVES SCARE TO REACH SECOND ROUND

Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova rallied from a set down to beat Paraguayan Veronica Cepede Royg 3-6 6-1 7-5 in a two-hour thriller on Court Philippe Chatrier.

When reminded of her current winning streak on clay, Kvitova said: “It’s 12 matches… but I’m still so far from Rafa (Nadal) so I’ll just keep trying.”

1110 AZARENKA SUFFERS EARLY EXIT

Former world number one Victoria Azarenka struggled for rhythm in a 7-5 7-5 defeat by Czech Katerina Siniakova in the first round.

The 28-year-old Belarusian, who reached the semi-finals in 2013, committed 38 unforced errors in her first match at Roland Garros in two years.

1045 OSAKA POWERS PAST KENIN

Japan’s Naomi Osaka fired 10 aces on her way to a 6-2 7-5 first-round victory over American Sofia Kenin. The 21st seed will next face Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan.

($1 = 0.8610 euros)

Compiled by Hardik Vyas in Bengaluru,; Editing by Ed Osmond

The post Highlights of French Open second day appeared first on World The News.

from World The News https://ift.tt/2IQbpBM via News of World

[polikszena]

Ficlet advent calendar - The best of mistletoe

In this post you can find some ficlets from the challenge that are related to mistletoes. You can ask the fics by clicking on their titles.

A happy accident

Fandom: Downton Abbey Characters: Mary Crawley, Evelyn Napier Relationships: Mary Crawley/Evelyn Napier Word Count: 885 Rating: General Summary: Lady Mary Crawley goes out from the hot ballroom to take some fresh air. What she doesn't notice is that she's now standing under the mistletoe. Sets in 1912.

Misunderstanding

Fandom: Turn: Washington’s Spies Characters: Robert Townsend, James Rivington Word Count: 617 Rating: General Summary: James Rivington was always trying to find out more about his business parter, especially regarding his love life, but this time he had gone too far.

Underneath the mistletoe

Fandom: 30 Rock Characters: Liz Lemon, Jack Donaghy, Tracy Jordan Relationships: Liz Lemon & Jack Donaghy Word Count: 1087 Rating: Teen and up audiences Summary: Liz Lemon wants to take down the mistletoes in the studio, Jack disagrees, but events take a different turn when they meet under one.

Three’s a crowd

Fandom: Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, Kingsman Characters: Roxy Morton, Alexander Lemtov, Mita Xenakis, The Three Musketeers and Ilya, Lars Erickssong, Sigrit Ericksdóttir Relationships: Roxy Morton & Alexander Lemtov, Roxy Morton/Mity Xenakis Word Count: 1262 Rating: Teen and up audiences Summary: After the rather shocking Christmas performance by Lemtov's background dancers, Roxy and Mita accidentally find the only untouched mistletoe in the house.

[polikszena]

Ficlet Advent Calendar 2021: Chapters 13 - 16

With an enormous delay here are the next chapters of my advent calendar challenge. You can access them by clicking on the fic’s title.

December 13 - Father and son

Fandom: Ted Lasso Characters: Trent Crimm, Michael Crimm, Sheila Crimm Word Count: 1288 Rating: Teen and up audiences Summary:  It's Trent Crimm's first Christmas after his divorce and the first time he faces his parents as a divorced man. He's afraid what his father will say as they go to the garage for firewood, and he cannot believe his ears when Michael Crimm finally expresses his opinion. Sets several years before the events in Ted Lasso. Notes: I wasn't planning to write this chapter, but I came across an interview with James Lance on Subjectify and it hit me hard, because I always thought of Trent's father as a warm and supportive guy, while in the interview he's basically everything but that. So, it made me think quite a lot and I came to the conclusion that Michael Crimm might be a warm and supportive guy now, but this probably wasn't always like this. That he has changed a lot over the years. This chapter is a step on this journey. The names of Trent's parents and the other details of his family are my headcanons only. Also, this chapter is quite very sentimental, so proceed with caution!

December 14 - Decoration

Fandom: Downton Abbey Characters: Matthew Crawley, Mary Crawley, Robert Crawley, Edith Crawley, Mr Carson Relationships: Mary/Matthew Word Count: 765 Rating: Teen and up audiences Summary:  During his first Christmas at Downton Abbey, Matthew Crawley has been so fascinated by the enormous Christmas tree in the hall that next year he offers his help to decorate it.

December 15 - A single grain of rice

Fandom: Ted Lasso, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga Characters: Coach Beard, The Three Musketeers and Ilya, Alexander Lemtov, Ted Lasso, Jane Payne Word Count: 1534 Rating: Teen and up audiences Summary:  After his recent breakup with Jane, Coach Beard goes to a different pub unaware that the Eurovision Song Contest-winner, Alexander Lemtov is having an acoustic concert there. After the show he befriends Lemtov's background dancers, becomes an honorary reindeer, and has a breakdown in front of his new friends. Just a typical night out for Coach Beard. Notes:  Okay, this all started because I wanted to write something for Coach Beard, and since I don't like Jane, I wanted them to break up, and then I had this idea to put him together with Lemtov's dancers, because that would be fun. And this is how Ted Lasso has become integrated into The Bodyguard-universe. The "Which reindeer are you?" thing is an idea from last year that I had after I finished the advent calendar challenge, so I thought I would use it this year. As for the title, I used that quote from Mulan, because the breakup happens due to a very small thing, yet it still makes a big change in Beard's life. Also, this chapter is loosely related to Chapter 7 of this challenge.

December 16 - Greyhounds on ice

Fandom: Ted Lasso Characters: Dani Rojas, Jamie Tartt, Isaac McAdoo Word Count: 581 Rating: Teen and up audiences Summary:  The players of A.F.C. Richmond go to the local ice skating rink, but Dani Rojas has never skated before. He is rather nervous, but Jamie Tartt does his best to help him. Notes:  This was created because I loved Jamie and Dani's dynamics in Season 2 and I wanted to write something for them.

[polikszena]

Happy New Year - Parts 1-4

So, here are those New Year’s Eve-related ficlets I wrote yesterday. You can access them by clicking on the chapter title.

One

Fandom: Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga Characters: Lars Erickssong, Alexander Lemtov, Mita Xenakis Pairings: Lars/Sigrit Word Count: 477 Rating: General Summary: Lars is out in town to find some non-alcoholic champagne for Sigrit when he gets an unexpected phone call.

Two

Fandom: Downton Abbey Characters: Mr Carson (and the rest of the staff is mentioned, too) Word Count: 226 Rating: General Summary: Donwton, 1920. Mr Carson is handing out the wine at the servants' hall before midnight.

Three

Fandom: Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, Kingsman Characters: Roxy Morton, Alexander Lemtov, Mita Xenakis, Kevin Swain, The Three Musketeers and Ilya Word Count: 242 Rating: General Summary: Edinburgh, 2020. Alexander Lemtov and his company are waiting for midnight on the balcony of his mansion to watch the fireworks together.

Four

Fandom: Downton Abbey Characters: Mary Crawley, Matthew Crawley, Edith Crawley Pairings: Mary/Matthew Word Count: 372 Rating: General Summary: Downton, 1920. The Crawley family's celebration in the drawing room. Mary only lets Matthew kiss her on her cheek which causes a little confusion.

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I’m kind of sad that my advent calendar challenge is over, because I just had an idea of Lemtov and his background dancers discussing which one of Santa Claus’ reindeer they would be. And later they would eventually be joined by Lars who, of course, would pick the same reindeer as Lemtov. (And none of them would really mind that apparently Santa’s reindeer were all female)

And let’s just not dwell on the fact that none of these people’s Christmas traditions include Santa’s reindeer.

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Ficlet Advent Calendar 2020 - Chapters 13-16

So, here are the the rest of the fics I’ve written for the challenge so far. You can access them by clicking on the chapter titles.

December 13 - The perfect present

Fandom: Beauty and the Beast Characters: Belle, Prince Adam Pairings: Belle/Adam Word Count: 923 Rating: General Summary: One of the biggest perks of working on a Christmas market was the variety of presents to choose from, and that was one of the biggest drawbacks as well. The endless possibility of gifts could make it very hard to decide what to choose.

December 14 - Snowball

Fandom: Downton Abbey Characters: Mary Crawley, Matthew Crawley, Robert Crawley Pairings: Mary/Matthew Word Count: 914 Rating: General Summary:  On their way to Downton Abbey, Mary and Matthew Crawley engage themselves in a snowball fight.

December 15 - Reindeer and mistletoes

Fandom: Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga Characters: Lars Erickssong, Sigrit Ericksdóttir, Alexander Lemtov, Mita Xenakis, The Three Musketeers and Ilya (aka. Lemtov’s background dancers) Pairings: implied Lars/Sigrit Word Count: 1144 Rating: General Summary: Lars and Sigrit arrive to Lemtov's Christmas party, where he declares a war against mistletoes with an unexpected ally.

December 16 - First Christmas

Fandom: Downton Abbey Characters: Tom Branson, Sybbie Branson, Matthew Crawley Word Count: 349 Rating: General Summary: After Sybil's death, to Tom Branson, Christmas doesn't make sense anymore, but then he shows the Christmas tree in the hall to his daughter.

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Which reindeer are you? - The Bodyguard edition

Alexey: Dancer. Obviously.

Vladimir: Dasher.

Nikolay: *asks his wife*

Ilya: *not quite sure, so the others vote him Rudolph because he's the youngest*

Lemtov: *torn between Cupid and Comet, but in the end he chooses the latter as Cupid is more like Sigrit*

Lars: Comet. Without a doubt.

Mita: Prancer.

Roxy: Vixen.

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Ficlet Advent Calendar 2020: Chapters 17-20

Here are the newest installments of my advent calendar challenge. You can access them by clicking on the chapter title.

December 17 - Miracle

Fandom: Downton Abbey Characters: Charles Carson, Elsie Hughes Word Count: 462 Rating: General Summary: On her way to her room on Christmas Eve, Mrs Hughes finds Mr Carson decorating the Christmas tree in the servants' hall.

December 18 - Three’s a crowd

Fandom: Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, Kingsman Characters: Roxy Morton, Alexander Lemtov, Mita Xenakis, Lars Erickssong, Sigrit Ericksdóttir, The Three Musketeers and Ilya Pairings: Roxy/Mita Word Count: 1203 Rating: Teen and up audiences Summary: After the rather shocking Christmas performance by Lemtov's background dancers, Roxy and Mita accidentally find the only untouched mistletoe in the house.

December 19 - A secret admirer

Fandom: Downton Abbey Characters: Anna Smith, Gwen Dwason, John Bates Pairings: implied Anna/Bates Word Count: 717 Rating: General Summary: Returning to her room on Christmas Day after work, Anna finds two presents on her bed: one of them is from Gwen, but who sent the other one?

December 20 - Outcasts

Fandom: Downton Abbey Characters: Matthew Crawley, Isobel Crawley, Edith Crawley, Cora Crawley, Miss O’Brien, Violet Crawley, Robert Crawley, Richard Carlisle Pairings: Matthew/a room where no-one is wrapping presents Word Count: 572 Rating: General Summary: Matthew Crawley cannot find a place to go on Christmas morning, as in every room there is someone wrapping presents.