Hi,
If i am playing a game whilst waiting for a tourney to start then i am given a black mark on my playing card if i leave it to play the tourney.
I can see why this rule was created (ie stop people regulary leaving ranked games particulary those who dont care about points)but why make unranked games penalized to?
I think its a touch unfair that I purposely set up a game with a friend on the understanding that we are both in the tourney, and one of us gets in trouble for playing what is essentially a 2 person practise.

Whats the offical responce...?

My personal opinion is that I'm inclined to disagree with you, but I can see your point.

Trouble is, it's not always a friend people are playing, and it's pretty frustrating for newcomers and guests trying out the site when their games are constantly interrupted by members leaving their games for selfish motives.

It gives a bad impression to new would-be members, and also ruins the game for those who prefer playing friendlies, so I think that anything that discourages early-leavers should remain in place.

The answer is simple - just don't play games a few minutes before a tournament.

Edited at 09:37 Sat 30/12/06 (GMT)

Its the games that go on longer though... im not a hot shot!

Well there are plenty of warnings, 10 minutes and on.. (not to mention that most systems have a little clock somewhere on the desktop) so its not like its gonna be surprised on you!

In the end, the percentage of games left due to tourneys will be minimal. It people show leave 20%+ of games (yes they do exist, especially on snooker) that are to be watched...

I didnt like it to begin with either as i get kicked off the net quite often, but the percentages means nothing.