No doubt that Elizaveta might have scored higher going in the second group. The fact Adriana D was the first to skate, I'm sorry, is quite forgettable, especially with Tukt coming after her, it erases AD from memory. Not trying to be mean, but a couple of these skaters were definitely not in the same league with the top finishers. Alright, let's just say that Tukt was the first to skate of those who finished in the top, which means, as they always say, that the judges will tend to leave room when a top contender skates early in the first group.
Well, I guess you are a huge fan, Sasha (also, seniorita). Elizaveta definitely looks good with a great deal of confidence. Again, I tend not to get overexcited about very young skaters. I hate the way they are often loaded down with expectations. Generally, at this stage they are all sweetness and light and confidence. As they begin to grow up, the pressure tends to be felt more, and they either deal with it and become champions, or they don't. Eliza T is absolutely amazing, but there are some other amazing young up-and-coming Russians, and I think it's still too early to tell how the ladies field will develop over the next several years.
ETA: I too loved Mao when she first competed on the GP circuit. I don't enjoy seeing what happened to her since then.
