Well to be fair, the gym battle, Kalos crisis (possible Malamar Gangster return and Team Flare pre-hype), and Serena's performance are all happening beforehand. Man, I really, really don't want Shota to beat Ash at the league simply because he has the Mega Sceptile. Or Tierno with his goofy dancing gimmick. I've watched the show for too long that it would make me want to punch a wall if that happens. If Ash doesn't reach the finals and lose to a trainer of Alain's caliber after this season, then I don't know when in the show he'll ever do well.