RP: Winners Never Quit

[shh_katie]

Date: October 12, 2005
Characters: British Quidditch Team, NPCs, Cedric, Fleur
Location: Quidditch pitch - Toronto, Canada
Status: Public
Summary: Another step in the bid for the World Cup - Game 2
Completion: (In)Complete

Comments

[shh_oliver]

Oliver had done his pregame ritual which involved him and the loo along with a copy of 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. He'd been using the same ritual since he was at Hogwarts and read his dogeared copy to calm himself before he played. Spending thirty minutes on the loo had a soothing effect and frankly, it was the only place he could find some peace and quiet. But Oliver didn't really read while her was there. He actually went over scouting reports and the game strategies in his mind, his concentration mostly on the other team's attack and the corresponding defense that the British team should use.

When he emerged from his sanctuary, he put his book into his locker and followed everyone outside. He eaw Callum, Jordan and David together, listening to them bet before he leaned in and smiled. "Please boys. No betting but if was a betting man and looking at the competition, I'd say it's going to be a long one." He smirked. "But we're going to win."

After he stretched, he mounted his broom, flying around the pitch before making his way over to where Fleur was sitting, smiling down at her before he peeled back toward the pitch. When he found himself near one of the Togo players, Oliver stopped his broom while saying, "Hi, my name's Oliver Wood, Keeper for the English team. I'll be the one over there." He pointed toward the goals he'd be defending. "Come by and visit. We'll have tea."

He flew away, trying to maintain his calm exterior. Oliver knew it was important to the team. They were still young and inexperienced although he could see the coming together and it felt good to be playing on a team again. When he was near his goals, he circled them, running his hand along each one and smiling. They were his now, at least until the game ended and he'd try to protect them well.

Oliver settled into place shortly after, waiting for the game to begin while loosely holding the handle of his broom. He watched as the Snitch was released and girded himself as the Togo chasers flew at him, the Quaffle moving quickly between them. Oliver saw Marcus, Katie and Alicia in hot pursuit. He observed the Quaffle movement and the weaving pattern of the flyers approaching, waiting until he decided what they were going to do. Oliver attacked, taking the angle away from the Chaser on the left, who fumbled the Quaffle away and he saw Marcus sweep in and take away the Quaffle. The action went the other way and Oliver yelled at David. "Pinch them hard on your side and don't let them get in sync."

David nodded and flew off before Oliver settled back into the goal, waiting for his next chance.