We definately felt there was a momentum shift (or drive) when we scored keepers vs. when we missed. There were only a couple time when we missed by a lot (ie. the keeper fell on the way to the rack) but most times we were inches of making it- if not actually making it. Twice our suction cup didn't release and the keeper didn't drop- but we got it the entire way there. We have the distiction of being Cut-off twice- Once in the Regional and once during the Winter War Zone Scrimmage. (Not sure who else can claim that this year!!!
)
So momentum and excitement seemed to play a big part in the rest of the match and that "ahhh... almost made it" let down may have helped do the opposite.
All in all- I was surprised to see so many teams not even try. FIRST should have made them more worth the time, effort and accomplishment- Point wise. (this may have given the proper incentive for more teams to spend the time perfecting autonomous scoring)