Dealing with "deadbeats"

[WorldCup4James]

I have designed a tournament of mine (viewtopic.php?f=91&t=119065) to include a group stage (6 groups, each with 4 players, with those same 4 players playing singles match on each of the 6 continents) where players can really get to know each other and learn their techniques and strategy and repetitively play against each other (as in an actual sports league). I've realized that a few freemium players are missing games, and due to the nature of the tournament, it would be unfair to replace them with reserves, as it would be unfair to the other 3 players in their respective group to have to face a new opponent. So, I've decided to adjust my scoring system, instead of replacing them. Do you think this is fair...: (bold font indicates the new changes I am considering)
1st place: 3 pts
2nd place: 2 pts
3rd place: 1 pt
4th place: 0 pts
Failing to join within 3 days of receiving invite: -1 pt.
If 1 player is missing, I would then create a game with 3 players instead of 4 (and if 2 were missing, I'd create a game with 2 players).
Do you think this is the best way to handle the situation, because I think it would be tough for all players in the group to have to play against a new player with a new style of playing.
Thanks for your advice

[Lindax]

You should post this in the tournament thread and ask what the participants of your tournament think.

Lx

[wisemanpsemc]

or pm them and ask them to respond in the tournament

[WorldCup4James]

Allright, did both of those things, thanks

[barterer2002]

My general feeling is to keep the game numbers the same. there is a difference between 3 and 4 player games IMO and having promised 4 player games in the intro I'd put in replacements where needed.