[Al Skierkiewicz]

Although there doesn't seem to be anything preventing the extension of the horizontal noodles into the corners, it has been my experience that the vertical pool noodle seems to add a bit more protection. You can use hot glue but the surface at the glue point is pretty small. If you use the specified heavy fabric, the vertical piece is held firmly in place and looks pretty nice. For your own piece of mind, please follow
"D. The BUMPERS must be covered with a rugged, smooth cloth (1000 dernier Cordura Plus® strongly recommended). The cloth must cover all external parts of the bumper material (pool noodle) and backing (plywood)." Results will vary but this will prevent an issue if your bumper falls apart during a match due to weak fabric covering.