This is the last time the Zapatera and Ometepe tribes competed, and the focus should be on how the tribal numbers and dynamics will influence events in the upcoming merge. No changes in dynamics occurred in Ometepe, with Phillip continuing to be infuriated by his tribe-mates. So the focus is on Zapatera who once again lost a challenge; having got rid of the three outsiders, the alliance of six had no choice but to vote out one of their own.
Let us give them credit. They were a completely faithful alliance, even though there were so many of them. Julie could have been tempted, like people in previous episodes, to join Russell, but despite her reluctance to throw the challenge she did what was required by her alliance. They subsequently voted out Krista together with no problems. But when it was time to vote Stephanie out, at this stage Sarita's weaknesses became a concern but only David actually voted for Sarita while the others voted for Stephanie as alliance rules dictated.
At this point the focus was on David, and he had overnight become an outsider who did not fit in. Suddenly he was distrusted and his personality was also an issue. He must had violated a sacred oath which decreed "thou shalt vote out thy enemies, not thy alliance". In hindsight it was a mistake to support Stephanie, and he really should have consulted the others on whether he should have done this or not, instead of valiantly helping her out and hoping others would join him. Also, considering how close the challenge was, we would be tempted to think Stephanie would have performed sufficiently better than Sarita to have helped them win rather than lose it. It appears the tribe had voted out the wrong person when the worst that could have happened was that they would have to vote out Stephanie after rather than before Sarita.
Fortunately for David, the alliance decided to use common sense and let him off for his transgression, instead eliminating Sarita for being too weak a player. Only Ralph and Sarita voted for David, who survived 4-2.
Next week, the merge happens, and the surviving resident of Redemption Island returns to the game. There are five from Zapatera and six from Ometepe, and the twelfth person is either Matt or Sarita. David was lucky that no one knew about the merge coming so soon, otherwise they would have definitely kept Sarita around for her loyalty and voted him out, and not minded if he won the duel or not. However, Zapatera looks more likely to do well as their alliance looks genuine and they will have the faithful services of Lord Phillip, who will definitely rebel and vote against King Rob. With a new lease of life, Phillip's prospects look a lot better, and he can be depended upon to vote out most of his tribe-mates.
The merge has come too soon for Rob, who would be better off losing an immunity challenge and getting rid of Phillip. Unfortunately Phillip knows Rob has a clue to the idol and could have found it - and will give this information away. The votes from Zapatera will probably go on someone other than Rob, it does not matter who. But Rob would want to play the idol just for insurance. The next tribal council will be very interesting, and we can see Phillip being the central figure from now on.
Great Blog Phil!!! as always!!
Even tho I find Phillip insufferable he is entertaining...and will definitely flip to the other side...his jealously of Rob is tangible....and tbh rather amusing to me!!! hahah
As for Rob , as you said this most certainly will change his came plan....
it will be very interesting if Matt comes back.... Rob needs him... but fortunely
darn IPAD!! unfortunately Rob led the crusade to get him voted off..... so we shall see!!! :D I totally agree David definitely caught a break .... had his tribe known about the merge.... he'd be gone!!! This coming week promises to be very interesting...and very entertaining!! Loved the blog girl!! <333333333
