Don't count goals scored for the opposition - Yes or No?

[Jimmy Cao]

What defines "scored for the opposition"? Redbot kicked a ball, which touched bluebot, and went into the red goal. Who scored? Red who kicked, or blue who touched it last?

How do you tell who "scored"? The scoring system is automated. It eliminates the need for scorers. But wait, now we need people to not only count the goals, but also tell the system which ones are "legitimate"?

How do you enforce DOGMA penalties now? Must the balls still be put into play in the same timely manner? In that case, scoring for your opponents becomes a means of giving them penalties exclusively? But wait, you cannot cause a penalty. If they don't need to be returned, how do you tell the HP they can take their time with that ball.

In 2006, you could score for your opponents all you like. Teams took advantage of that to boost their own score. Wise move.

Likewise in 2009. It happened less often than 2006 in my opinion, but it is still a valid strategy.

Its no different in 2010. In fact, its MORE important in 2010. It helps sort out the "great" from the "best". Great robot can score 10/match. The best robots can score 10/match, and win every match by 1 point (in theory). Scoring for your opponents isn't the problem. It results from the way the ranking system is set up. Removing scoring for your opponents is a bad bandaid over the issue.

In 2006/2009, scoring for your opponents benefited the losing alliance. They get more RP. This year, if you lose, you benefit NOTHING from your points. I disagree with the system, but that's the way the system works. I don't like it, but, like the rest of us, I need to live with it.

So if you really want to fix the problem, I find it more logical to go after its root, and not just patch its branches.