NationStates Jolt Archive

Welcome all to the inaugural Eagle's Cup football tournament.

As you may know 16 teams have come to the Eagle's Nest for a few weeks of football in tune up for WCXIII. ((this is timewise in between WCXII and WCXIII)) the teams that have been entered into this years matches are:

Resistencia
Jeruselem
Lovisa
Melmond
Anaq
Pablicosta
Mattigool
Wella
BSE Free Bovines
Praying2God
The Belmore Family
Creedence Clearwater
Total n Utter Insanity
Compound Interest
NEWI Cefn Druids
Eauz


The teams will be listed into four segments based upon their current World Cup ranking. then each segment will be randomly drawn into a Group. Each group will play each other team twice, the top two teams moving on to the elimination rounds. In case of a tie, the teams will play a sudden death game to see who moves on. All games will be played in the Eagle's Nest. Venues to be noted below.

Matchday Order:

MD1: 1v2, 3v4
MD2: 2v4, 1v3
MD3: 1v4, 3v2
MD4: 4v3, 2v1
MD5: 3v1, 4v2
MD6: 2v3, 4v1

And where will the teams be playing?

Venue 1
The Silver Flame Stadium
Capacity: 78,000
Matches: 1st listed match, group A

Venue 2
Everlundian Municipal Stadium
Capacity: 75,340
Matches: 2nd listed match, group B

Venue 3
The Nesmian Bowl
Capacity: 72,008
Matches: 1st listed match, Group B

Venue 5
Silverymoon Dome
Capacity: 73,000
Matches: 2nd listed match, Group B

Venue 5
Rivermoot Arena
Capacity: 74, 850
Matches: 1st listed match, Group C

Venue 6
The Stadia at High Hold
Capacity: 68,000
Matches: 2nd listed match, Group C

Venue 7
Rauvinwatch Arena
Capacity: 71,000
Matches: 1st listed match, Group D

Venue 8
Yartar Dome
Capacity: 70,550
Matches: 2nd listed match, Group D

Quarterfinals:
1. Winner A vs. 2nd B: Rauvinwatch Arena
2. Winner C vs. 2nd D: Everlundian Municipal Stadium
3. Winner B vs. 2nd A: Yartar Dome
4. Winner D vs. 2nd C: The Nesmian Bowl

Semis:
Winner match 1 vs. Winner match 2: The Stadia at High Hold
Winner match 3 vs. Winner match 4: Silverymoon Dome

Consolation Final: Rivermoot Arena
Final: The Silver Flame Arena


Seedings will be posted in this thread.


The scores are posted here every day. (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=2839345#2839345)
Post your rosters here. (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=2819201#2819201)

The draw:

teams placed into 4 segments based on their ranking:

[code:1:3290225156]
The Belmore Family
TnUI
Eauz
Praying2God

Creedence Clearwater
NEWI Cefn Druids
Pablicosta
Mattigool

Jeruselem
Anaq
BSE Free Bovines
Compound Interest

Iainjacksonville
Lovisa
Resistencia
Wella
[/code:1:3290225156]

Teams will be assigned by random draw into each group.

Groups are:

GroupA
TnUI
NEWI Cefn Druids
Compound Interest
Wella

Group B
Praying2God
Mattigool
Jeruselem
Iainjacksonville

Group C
Eauz
Creedence Clearwater
Anaq
Lovisa

Group D
The Belmore Family
Pablicosta
BSE Free Bovines
Resistencia


The First Matchday will be on Friday.
Good luck to all!

This Double Post will be editted with the first scores when they are posted tomorrow.

The Daily Compounded Newsticker


Compounded National Team Starts In Soccer Tournament... Opponents Are Total n Utter Insanity, Newi Cefn Druids And Wella... Coach 135323-I 'John Marc' Describes The Chances As 'Exisiting' And Promised: 'To Return Profit'... Compounded Stock Exchange....

(OOC: tag)

Horace enters from the left Takes A Good look around, does not see the Brazillicator shruggs and walks off.
:lol:

Les Bleus play in The Eagle's Cup

Having been eliminated from the 12th World Cup, Les Bleus will be playing a little Cup match in the Country of The Eagles. Les Bleus got drafted into Group C.

[code:1:10a2858c6b]
Group C
Eauz
Creedence Clearwater
Anaq
Lovisa

[/code:1:10a2858c6b]

The group contains qualifying rival Creedence Clearwater who tied Les Bleus in their first meeting at Eauz, and then won the next match. Les Bleus will be looking to get revenge on Creedence.

Anaq is unknown to Les Bleus, and have never seen them play in a world cup qualifying, nor have Les Bleus played Lovisa.

Predictions

[code:1:10a2858c6b]
1. Eauz
2. Creedence Clearwater
3. Lovisa
4. Anaq
[/code:1:10a2858c6b]

[code:1:10a2858c6b]
Schedule:

MD1 : Creedence Clearwater @ Eauz
: Anaq @ Lovisa

MD2 : Lovisa @ Creedence Clearwater
: Anaq @ Eauz

MD3 : Lovisa @ Eauz
: Creedence Clearwater @ Anaq

MD4 : Anaq @ Lovisa
: Eauz @ Creedence Clearwater

MD5 : Eauz @ Anaq
: Creedence Clearwater @ Lovisa

MD6 : Anaq @ Creedence Clearwater
: Eauz @ Lovisa
[/code:1:10a2858c6b]

*note, even though it says teams will play at another team, it is all being played in one country.

Bovine Times

Bovines Wear Down Resistencia 1 - 0

THE EAGLES NEST

The Bovines national side kicked off The Eagle's Cup today with a victory over newcomer Resistencia. The match was played at the Yartar Dome. The Bovines came to this tournament with the same 22 players from their WC XII qualifying run. Coach Galloway explained that he had not brought a couple of his most promising young players to the tournament due to injury. Coach Galloway did say that, "There is a possibility a couple of these players may join the team as the tournament progresses, but for now they are training with their local clubs back in the Republic."

The match itself was not a very exciting affair as both sides had a slow and tentative start. The Bovines seemed to gain their playing form a bit quicker than Resistencia. They managed to breakdown the Resistencia defense a couple of times before halftime. Their most promising chance came in the 38th minute as a Salers header grazed the crossbar and went out of bounds. The half ended with no score.

The Bovines came back from the break with more urgency and continued to control the ball through the midfield. The Resistencia's defense was well balanced and managed to deny any Bovine penetration inside their box. The Bovines finally broke through in the 77th minute when Holstein sent a searching ball to the top to the arc of the Resistencia box. Salers nodded the ball down to the rushing Santa Gertrudis, the young forward made no mistake and sent a hard shot to the near post. The keeper could not react fast enough and the Bovines led the match 1-0. The Resistencia's defense stiffened again and denied any more Bovine chances for the rest of the match.

Coach Galloway seemed pleased after the match. He said, "I am happy with today's match and result. We created a few chances and capitalized on one." The next match will be against powerhouse The Belmore Family.

The Bovines played a 3-5-2:
Ankole, Brown, Ayr, Angus, Jersey, Hereford (Friesian), Romagnola, Simmental (Holstein), Limousin, Santa Gertrudis, Salers

Goals:
Bovines: Santa Gertrudis 77

Cards:
None

The Profit City Times

CINST failed to capitalize chances

The Conpound Interest National Soccer Team made a write-off about 2 points in this match against opponent Wella. The CINST played a fast match, but for some odd reason failed to capitalize their chances. Coach 135323-I 'John Marc' urged the CEO of the CIFA, 352684-Q 'Conte Marc', to give him some more time: 'There is a time for investing and a time for revenue. Currently we are in the first stage, but without investments, there will be no profit.' The CINST was the younger team on the pitch, the average age of the CINST-players was the age of the youngest Wella player. One of the reasons for this was, that the Compounded soccer clubs refused to let their top-players play in the CINST and rather sent young players, who need the practise, but are normally not starters. another reason for that is that when a top player would be injured in a match of the national team, the club would go to court and CIFA would lose a high amount of money.

Despite the write-off, the sponsors are satisfied with the result. The CINST may be the only national team, which has the names of the sponsors in big letters on the chest, but that only shows that other teams are not used to the way the free market runs.

Jeruselem Government News

Crusaders cruise past Iainjacksonville in Eagle's Nest Cup

The Jeruselem Crusaders won a convincing 2-0 win over Iainjacksonville in their first Eagle's Nest Cup game.

Two second half goals put on down any resistance put up by the stubborn Iainjacksonville defense who kept out a determined Crusader attack lead by captain Harry Kewell. In the 46 minute defender Rabbi Goldstein broke the off-side trap and flew past the sparse Iainjacksonville defense passing to Manny Jones who slipped past the desperate keeper to score the 1st goal of the game. David Becks still recovering from an injuring in World Cup XII, sealed the result taking a sneaky quick free kick and planting the ball into the Iainjacksonville goal past a sleepy wall.

Coach Bob Marley in Tomato red said "Hey man. Other games are going to be much harder. Chill man". Captain Harry Kewell who was rested in the 2nd half due to an old injury said "We should have won 4-0 but credit to Iainjacksonville who did not give up and made a game of it."

Group B
Praying2God
Mattigool
Jeruselem
Iainjacksonville

Starting off the Eagle Cup well

Les Bleus started off the Eagle cup in fine fashion, beating World Cup Qualifying Group rival Creedence Clearwater 1 - 0. The first half of the match was pretty even, as both teams put stress on the others goal keeper. Though, in the second half, Les Bleus took control of the game. In the 76th minute, Les Bleus scored off a corner kick header into the net. Fleuvr the goal keeper was not tested by Creedence after Les Bleus scored the goal.

The Coach said, "I am excited, we actually beat Creedence, unfortunatly, it wasn't in the World Cup Qualifying round. I don't know why we won this time, and not then. I guess we finally figured out their way of playing. Oh well, that is one win out of the 6 we have to play, and I hope we can break the backs of Creedence the next time we play." The first match win will be used as a great motivater or future games. The next match for Les Bleus will come against Anaq who tied their first match of the Eagle cup against Lovisa. Look for a commanding win for Les Bleus.


MD1 : Creedence Clearwater @ Eauz W 0 - 1
: Anaq @ Lovisa T 0 - 0

MD2 : Lovisa @ Creedence Clearwater
: Anaq @ Eauz

MD3 : Lovisa @ Eauz
: Creedence Clearwater @ Anaq

MD4 : Anaq @ Lovisa
: Eauz @ Creedence Clearwater

MD5 : Eauz @ Anaq
: Creedence Clearwater @ Lovisa

MD6 : Anaq @ Creedence Clearwater
: Eauz @ Lovisa


[code:1:9a886b14ea]
Group C
Team P W D L F A GD Pts
Eauz 1 1 0 0 1 0 +1 3
Lovisa 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
Anaq 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
Creedence Clearwater 1 0 0 1 0 1 -1 0

[/code:1:9a886b14ea]

Marie Law (MeL): Welcome to the kick-off of the Eagle's Cup. Today, the Warriors drew with Mattigool 0-0. Joining me is Warriors Head Coach Martin Luther to discuss today's match, and the outlook for the remainder of the competition. Coach, how did your team play today?

Martin Luther (MaL): To draw against Mattigool was a little disappointing, especially at home. However, I do have to acknowledge that we played well defensively, so we have something to build on.

MeL: What do you think is the main reason that your team has so many problems scoring?

MaL: It's quite simple really...we simply lack the experience of finishing our attacks. That was part of the reason we decided to play this Cup, to help us have more experience before WC XIII kicks off in a couple of years.

MeL: What do you think the outlook is for your team for the rest of the Cup?

MaL: If we can start scoring, we should be a top contender to qualify. According to the rankings, we should put up a fight to potentially win our group, which would be big to avoid TBF, TnUI, and Eauz until the late rounds...assuming we get to the late rounds. Our group should be a really tough one to predict because none of us have made much noise in the WC, so none of us has the experience of playing in big games down the stretch. The way it appears though is that the two qualifying spots will come down to us, Jeruselem, and Mattigool. It will probably be the two teams that do the best on the road and against Iainjacksonville that will qualify for the quarterfinals.

MeL: Do you care to make a prediction?

MaL: The only prediction that I'm willing to make is that it's going to be a great battle throughout the competition, and a good experience for us.

Mel: Thanks for your time, Coach. We wish you good luck in your next match. Let's send it back to Jennifer in the studio.

Jennifer Johnson: Thank you for your report, Marie. We look forward to receiving your updates from TEN during the duration of the Cup. To recap for those of you who just tuned in. The Warriors are participating in the Eagle's Cup, and have been drawn into a group with Jeruselem, Mattigool, and Iainjacksonville. Today, they drew against Mattigool 0-0. That's all from here folks. Good night everybody.


PRAYING2GOD 0
Mattigool 0

Unofficial Standings:

Jeruselem 1-0-0, +2 GD, 3 pts
Praying2God 0-0-1, 0 GD, 1 pt
Mattigool 0-0-1, 0 GD, 1 pt
Iainjacksonville 0-1-0, -2 GD, 0 pts

Despite Loss, Resistencia Remains Optimistic
Resistencia Times
The Resistencia national soccer team opened up the Eagles tournament with a 1-0 loss to BSE Bovines. This to the disappointment of the many Resistencia fans who travelled all this way to watch their team. Most were trying to forget the abysmall performance of the handball team at the handball world cup and watch their beloved soccer team win. This was to no avail.
Resistencia did not play badly and kept it close the whole game. They had several chances to tie the game up but failed to capitalize. As the game went on, their inexperience began to show. As the end of the game approached, the veteran players of BSE Bovines were running circles around the young and inexperienced Resistencia players.
"I think thiswas a good opening test for us," said defenseman Matt Winger, "but we have a lot to learn.
Learning is definately what Resistencia has to do. They are the youngest team in the tournament with an average age of 21. Their oldest player is captain David Liddler who is at the ripe old age of 29.
Many of the players are very optimistic. "I thinl that having such a young team allows us to improve after every game," said Liddler, "I think the fact that we kept it so close in the opening match is a good sign. I'm sure we'll play a lot better inthe next game."
The Resistencia fans sure hope he is right. This is the first competitive tournament for the Resistencia soccer team and will be good gauge as to how far they will have to go if they want to make it to the next World Cup. "The main reason we are here is to see what kind of improvements we are going to have to make and to get used to the competitiveness of a tournament," said coach Larry Kurchev. "If we do okay in this tournament, I definately like our chances at qualifying for the World Cup.
Inthe meantime, Resistencia fans will have to sit back and dream of the day when their beloved national team can claim the spotlight.

Marie Law (ML): I'm joining you again today from TEN, where the Warriors are participating in the Eagle's Cup. The Warriors have gotten off to a strong start thus far in qualifying by earning four points in their first two matches after a 2-0 victory over Jeruselem today. Joining me is keeper Joshua Harris, who has recorded back-to-back shutouts to open this tournament. Joshua, what do you think has been the key to your team's success at the beginning of this tournament?

Joshua Harris (JH): We've been playing good team defense so far, which means that teams haven't gotten very many good shots at me. That also means that we haven't had to score many goals so far to be successful.

ML: If your team keeps playing as well as it has, how well do you think you'll do?

JH: We should do well if we keep playing like this, but I refuse to speculate as to where we'll finish.

ML: How does it feel to have recorded back-to-back shutouts in internationational play?

JH: This isn't the first time, and the other time was more impressive because I shutout Commerce Heights and The Master Cooper during WC XII qualifying. What also made that more impressive was that it came during a clutch time when we were trying to keep alive our chance for qualifying, so there was a lot of pressure on us.

ML: What do you know about your next opponent, Iainjacksonville?

JH: Nothing really, beyond the fact that they're doing decently for a team that's new to international play. That makes them especially dangerous though, so we can't overlook them.

ML: Thank you for your time, Joshua. Let's send it back to Jennifer in the studio.

Jennifer Johnson: Thank you Marie. The Warriors are sure making a good impression so far in the Eagle's Cup. They're sitting on top of their group at the moment, but there's still a long way to go. Let's recap for those of you who may have tuned in late. The Warriors defeated Jeruselem 2-0 today in the Eagle's Cup to improve to 1-0-1, and take over the group lead. The Warriors goals were scored by Thomas Larson and Francis of Assisi. Good night everybody.


PRAYING2GOD 2 -Larson (23rd minute from Carter Larson), Assisi (78th minute from Johnson)
Jeruselem 0

Unofficial Group Standings
Praying2God 1-0-1, +2 GD, 4 pts
Jeruselem 1-1-0, 0 GD, 3 pts
Mattigool 0-0-2, 0 GD, 2 pts
Iainjacksonville 0-1-1, -2 GD, 1 pt

Tie Brings Personal Loss

Les Bleus went into the second match against an inexperienced team of Anaq, and ended up with a tie. It seemed as if all the players were expecting to win, and took the game too light. In the first half, Les Bleus came out strong scoring the first goal at the 16th minute of play. Les Bleus kept putting on pressure from there, resulting in nothing. Unfortunatly, in the second half, at the 83rd minute, Les Bleus let down their guard, and the defence fell apart, letting a forward from Anaq to score a goal, resulting in a 1 - 1 tie. The Coach said "We need to improve on this area of our game. We can't keep letting teams get back into the game. We are a stronger, better team than that!" Les Bleu are still on top of group C, but by a small margin. They had the chance to go up with 6 points, but are now at 4.

The next match will come against Lovisa who has yet to win in the Cup, and has not scored a goal for their team. The game could be the make or break for Les Bleus if they want to prove that they are the the best team of Group C.



MD1 : Creedence Clearwater @ Eauz W 0 - 1
: Anaq @ Lovisa T 0 - 0

MD2 : Lovisa @ Creedence Clearwater W 0 - 1
: Anaq @ Eauz T 1 - 1

MD3 : Lovisa @ Eauz
: Creedence Clearwater @ Anaq

MD4 : Anaq @ Lovisa
: Eauz @ Creedence Clearwater

MD5 : Eauz @ Anaq
: Creedence Clearwater @ Lovisa

MD6 : Anaq @ Creedence Clearwater
: Eauz @ Lovisa


[code:1:33853d6e6d]
Group C
Team P W D L F A GD Pts PP
Eauz 2 1 1 0 2 1 +1 4 16
Creedence Clearwater 2 1 0 1 1 1 0 3 15
Anaq 2 0 2 0 1 1 0 2 14
Lovisa 2 0 1 1 0 1 -1 1 13


[/code:1:33853d6e6d]

The Profit City Times

CINST made another large write-off

The CINST lowered its shareholder value again by tieing Total and Utter Insanity 0-0. While coach 135323-I 'John Marc' was quite satisfied with the tie against the much higher ranked team, prominent investors ask questions about the security of their investment. The CIFA CEO 352684-Q 'Conte Marc' tried to assure them, but the stock of the CIFA fell 7.5% on the Profit City stock exchange.

The CINST had virtually no information about the other team, only one name was heard: Alan Belless,, it was said, that he is a great player, but even the information on which position he plays were contradictory. The Insanican kits didn't have names on it (except Alan Belless' one), only the numbers. Not like the CINST, the numbers weren't the official UIDs. #1 Alan Belless, played as gaolkeeper and did his job very good, the CINST could not get past him. The Insanic offense was much worse. Goalie 758264-L 'Ron Summer' said after the match it was: 'Like the USAnian economy'. The CINST needs to win against the NEWI Cefn Druids in the next match to have a chance to reach the second round.

Resistencia Improves with a Tie

Resistencia Times 3/7/04-
The Resistencia national soccer team went into their second match of the Eagle's cup optimistic. Though they were coming off a 1-0 loss you couldn't tell that from their positive attitude.
"All we have to do is play smart and we'll be okay," said midfielder Sergei Kovalev. Resistencia coach Larry Kurchev had a similar outlook. "I think we have to get over our mistakes, thats why we lost the first game, mistakes," he said right before the opening whistle.
However, resistencia did make some mistakes early. They had not done much scouting on their opponent, Pablicosta, and so had pretty much no idea of their strengths and weaknesses. "We didn't know much about them early on," said team captain Dave Liddler, "but we caught on pretty quick.
They didn't catch on fast enough as they fell behind 1-0 at 31:23 of the first half. However, that seemed like a wake up call to which the team responded well. They cam close to scoring twice near the end of the half but failed to come away with any results.
The second half was delayed as a group of environmentalists ran onto the field to protest global warming. Fortunately, they were dealt with by police and the game could continue.
As the second half got underway, it seemed Pablicosta had the upper hand. They had several scoring oppurtunities, but were denied by goalie Randy Skyler who made three unbelievable saves.
After that, it seemed that the momentum shifted towards Resistencia. They moved the ball almost perfectly up the field and set up Liddler for a shot right in front of the Pablicosta goal. The shot was stopped by the Pablicosta goalie who made a great save to keep his team in the lead.
Resistencia, however, was not to be denied. They got another oppurtunity about thirty five minutes into the second half and got a corner kick oppurtunity. With their best chance to score all game, Resistencia converted when attacker Drew Bradley headed the corner kick into the net at 80:31 in the game.
Pablicosta had one more chance to regain the lead in injury time, but Skyler made another excellent save to sela the tie.
Now, Resistencia looks to its next match with confidence. They play the Bellmore Family, who are coming off of a 2-0 victory over BSE Bovines and are favored to winthe group. "We said we had to improve after last game," said coach Kurchev, "and we did. Now we have to keep our momentum going."
The Bellmore Family will be the toughest opponent Resistencia will ahve faced thus far. "They're a hell of a team," said Drew Bradley hero of tonight's game. "But I think we'll give them a tough match," he added.
Fans back home in Resistencia sure hope he's right.

Needed win raises Moral

Les Bleus finished off the first half of qualifying round of The Eagle cup with a 1 - 0 win against Lovisa, leaving Lovisa at the bottom of group C. Les Bleus came out strong as the coach talked to them behind closed doors about the tie in the last match. In the First half, Les Bleus kept the pressure on Lovisa, having control of the ball 70% of the time. Though, the goal didn't come until the second half, during the 64th minute. The Coach commented on the win : "I am glad we won this match, I just don't know how we could have tied against Anaq before. Though, I think that we are a stronger team, and should have scored at least 2 or 3. Oh well, I give credit to the defence of Lovisa, for putting up against our offence.

Les Bleus next match will come once again against rival Creedence Clearwater. The last match they played, Les Bleus took the game 1 - 0, but look for Creedence to come out strong, working on 2 game win streak.



MD1 : Creedence Clearwater @ Eauz W 0 - 1
: Anaq @ Lovisa T 0 - 0

MD2 : Lovisa @ Creedence Clearwater 0 - 1
: Anaq @ Eauz T 1 - 1

MD3 : Lovisa @ Eauz W 0 - 1
: Creedence Clearwater @ Anaq 2 - 0

MD4 : Anaq @ Lovisa
: Eauz @ Creedence Clearwater

MD5 : Eauz @ Anaq
: Creedence Clearwater @ Lovisa

MD6 : Anaq @ Creedence Clearwater
: Eauz @ Lovisa


[code:1:d22c75fecf]
Group C
Pos Team P W D L F A GD Pts PP
1 Eauz 3 2 1 0 3 1 2 7 16
2 Creedence Clearwater 3 2 0 1 3 1 2 6 15
3 Anaq 3 0 2 1 1 3 -2 2 11
4 Lovisa 3 0 1 2 0 2 -2 1 10


[/code:1:d22c75fecf]

Needed win raises Moral

Les Bleus finished off the first half of qualifying round of The Eagle cup with a 1 - 0 win against Lovisa, leaving Lovisa at the bottom of group C. Les Bleus came out strong as the coach talked to them behind closed doors about the tie in the last match. In the First half, Les Bleus kept the pressure on Lovisa, having control of the ball 70% of the time. Though, the goal didn't come until the second half, during the 64th minute. The Coach commented on the win : "I am glad we won this match, I just don't know how we could have tied against Anaq before. Though, I think that we are a stronger team, and should have scored at least 2 or 3. Oh well, I give credit to the defence of Lovisa, for putting up against our offence.

Les Bleus next match will come once again against rival Creedence Clearwater. The last match they played, Les Bleus took the game 1 - 0, but look for Creedence to come out strong, working on 2 game win streak.



MD1 : Creedence Clearwater @ Eauz W 0 - 1
: Anaq @ Lovisa T 0 - 0

MD2 : Lovisa @ Creedence Clearwater 0 - 1
: Anaq @ Eauz T 1 - 1

MD3 : Lovisa @ Eauz W 0 - 1
: Creedence Clearwater @ Anaq 2 - 0

MD4 : Anaq @ Lovisa
: Eauz @ Creedence Clearwater

MD5 : Eauz @ Anaq
: Creedence Clearwater @ Lovisa

MD6 : Anaq @ Creedence Clearwater
: Eauz @ Lovisa


[code:1:cd008591c1]
Group C
Pos Team P W D L F A GD Pts PP
1 Eauz 3 2 1 0 3 1 2 7 16
2 Creedence Clearwater 3 2 0 1 3 1 2 6 15
3 Anaq 3 0 2 1 1 3 -2 2 11
4 Lovisa 3 0 1 2 0 2 -2 1 10


[/code:1:cd008591c1]

Marie Law (ML): I'm live from TEN, where the Warriors are continuing their search for credibility in the international soccer community. Unfortunately, they didn't help their cause today by drawing with a surprising solid Iainjacksonville squad 1-1. The Warriors lone goal came off the foot of Rachel Peterson off a pass from Brian Johnson in the 61st minute to take the lead. Then in the 90th minute, Warriors defenseman Maria Campbell accidently headed the ball into the Warriors' net while trying to clear the ball. The shocked Iainjacksonville fans rejoiced at their good fortune of accomplishing something that no other team has done so far in the Eagle's Cup, score on the Warriors. Considering that the other two teams the Warriors have played are both WC veterans, that is truly an amazing feat. Joining me today is Warriors Captain Francis of Assisi to talk about the Warriors' chances in the remainder of the tournament. Francis, how disappointing was today's draw?

Francis of Assisi (FoA): It was extremely disappointing. They are a newcomer to international competition, and we came in as one of the hottest teams in the tournament. We had no business drawing this match, but we have to put it behind us and get ready for our match against Mattigool.

ML: How important is the match against Mattigool?

FoA: At the moment, unless Iainjacksonville gets really hot, it appears that if one team or the other were to win our match, they would qualify for the quarterfinals. It wouldn't be official, even with the result of the Jeruselem/Iainjacsonville match, but it could be all but official.

ML: What do you think your team's chances are in the Mattigool match?

FoA: It should be an outstanding match. Neither team was able to get their offense going during the first meeting and we ended up drawing with them, so it will be really well fought match, that should come down to the closing moments.

ML: Thank you for your time Francis. Good luck to you and the rest of the Warriors in the rest of the tournament. Let's send it back to Jennifer Johnson in the studio.

Jennifer Johnson: Thank you, as always, Marie for that excellent report. Things are looking bright for the Warriors at the moment folks, but that could change rapidly in the world of international soccer. Let's recap for those of you who may be just joining us. The Warriors drew with Iainjacksonville 1-1 today in the Eagle's Cup. The lone Warrior goal was scored by Rachel Peterson. The Warriors are now tied with Mattigool for the top spot in the group heading into their all-important head-to-head match-up on the next match day. Good night everybody.


PRAYING2GOD 1 -Peterson (61st minute from Johnson)
Iainjacksonville 1 -<own goal> (90th minute)

Unofficial Group Standings
Praying2God 1-0-2, +2 GD, 5 pts
Mattigool 1-0-2, +2 GD, 5 pts
Jeruselem 1-2-0, -2 GD, 3 pts
Iainjacksonville 0-1-2, -2 GD, 2 pts

OOC

Well, 2-0 losses to Matigool and PRAYING2GOD. Just like WC XI (13 losses).

Jeruselem Government News

Losses put pressure on Crusaders to win

After a first-up 2-0 win over Iainjacksonville, 2-0 losses to World Cup heavyweights Mattigool and PRAYING2GOD on the 2nd and 3rd match days have placed pressure for the team to win the rest of their games to make the next round in the The Eagle's Cup.

The teams fitness is under question after the rigours of World Cup XII, but the captain said "Fitness is not excuse. Other teams can still perform, but why not us? Their superior training and fitness schemes keep their players match fit while our team are fatigued after a tournament. We are not a true challeger to the World Cup heavyweights yet".

[code:1:e6bae99fff]
Group B
W L D GD
PRAYING2GOD 1 0 2 +2 5 pts
Mattigool 1 0 2 +2 5 pts
Jeruselem 1 2 0 -2 3 pts
Iainjacksonville 0 1 2 -2 2 pts
[/code:1:e6bae99fff]

BOVINE TIMES

WIND STORM KEEPS BOVINE FANS IN THE DARK

THE EAGLES NEST

A strong wind storm disrupted power and communications in El Toro for most of Saturday and Sunday. The publication of this newspaper was suspended due to power loss. Television and radio broadcasts were also suspended due to transmission tower damage. Today things are slowly returning to normal as repairs and clean up activities continue. The Bovine fans have been eagerly awaiting news from The Eagles Cup.

Matchday 2: The Belmore Family Downs Bovines 2 - 0
The Bovines faced a tough test on matchday 2 versus the powerful squad from TBF. Allan Belmore sent a young but talented side to compete in The Eagles Cup. He appears to be using this tournament to give some young players additional playing time. No doubt TBF is scouting for talent that can be used in WC XIII. The Belmorians wasted no time taking the lead in the 10th minute on a free kick from about 20 meters out. TBF showed good speed and build up throughout the first half, but could not capitalize on any other chances thanks in part to a couple of lucky saves by Ankole. At the halftime whistle TBF led 1-nil.

The Bovines tightened the defense and slowed some of the dangerous TBF over lapping runs at the start of the second half. TBF's youth started to show in the latter stages of the match as they forced the Bovines to defend instead of trying for the equalizer. TBF sealed the victory with another goal in the 88th minute, as they broke down the Bovine defense on the right side and the young Belmorian forward slotted the ball into the far post past a diving Ankole. The score at fulltime was TBF 2 and the Bovines nil.

Matchday 3: Bovines Triumph 1 - 0
The Bovines reversed their fortune on matchday 3. They came out very strong against the unknown side from Pablicosta. They put strong pressure on the Pablicostan defense from the very start of the match. The Pablicostan keeper managed to make a couple of good saves and keep the Bovines from scoring. The Bovines finally broke through in the 39th minute as Piedmontese broke through the Pablicostan back four and found himself alone with the keeper. The Bovine captain looped the ball over the onrushing keeper for the score. The Bovines lead at halftime 1-nil.

The second half turned to be a boring affair as the Bovines were content keeping possesion and not allowing the Pablicostans any chance to build a proper attack. At fulltime the score remained 1-nil in favor of the Bovines.

After the match Coach Galloway announced that the following changes to the Bovine squad.

The following players will join the squad for the remainder of The Eagles Cup:
[code:1:ce21aa5533]d'Aquitaine (Barnville Rangers) Defender
Lakenvelder (Dairy Coast United) Defender
Murray Grey (AC Free Range) Defender/Midfielder
Normande (El Toro Titans) Midfielder
Pinzgauer (Sporting El Toro) Defender
Tuli (Pastureland FC) Goalkeeper

The following players will return to their club sides:
Devon (El Toro Titans) Goalkeeper
Kerry (El Toro Titans) Defender
Angus (Pastureland FC) Defender
Ayr (Sporting El Toro) Defender
Brown (Barnville Rangers) Defender
Jersey (El Toro Titans) Midfielder[/code:1:ce21aa5533]

Asked about the changes Coach Galloway said, "I had intended to bring these players to the tournament, but due to injury or other commitments they could not join the squad at the start of the tournament. I want these younger players to experience playing at this level. Hopefully some of these lads will join us for WC XIII."

Jeruselem Government News

Losses put pressure on Crusaders to win

After a first-up 2-0 win over Iainjacksonville, 2-0 losses to World Cup heavyweights Mattigool and PRAYING2GOD on the 2nd and 3rd match days have placed pressure for the team to win the rest of their games to make the next round in the The Eagle's Cup.

The teams fitness is under question after the rigours of World Cup XII, but the captain said "Fitness is not excuse. Other teams can still perform, but why not us? Their superior training and fitness schemes keep their players match fit while our team are fatigued after a tournament. We are not a true challeger to the World Cup heavyweights yet".


OOC- I wouldn't call myself a WC heavywight, but I appreciate the compliment. :D

Oops...another double post. :oops:

TAG, Just noticed this. RP to come later.

Jeruselem Government News
Crusaders back on track, Iainjacksonville in trouble

The Crusades scored a unconvincing but crucial win 1-0 over Iainjacksonville to claim second spot in Group B of The Eagle's Cup. The win was far from comprehensive, but Iainjacksonville was unable to get any decent shots on goal and managed to keep out the Jeruselem attack until Rabbi Goldstein was upended in Iainjacksonville penalty area by a frustrated defender. Harry Kewell put home the penalty goal for a win.

Praying2God has pushed own to third in Group B while Mattigool stays the leader. Iainjacksonville is in trouble with 2 points from all games and has lost to Jeruselem twice already.

[code:1:6b11e60fe4]
Group B
Pos Team P W D L F A GD Pts PP
1 Mattigool 4 2 2 0 5 2 3 8 14
2 Jeruselem 4 2 0 2 3 4 -1 6 12
3 Praying2God 4 1 2 1 4 3 1 5 11
4 Iainjacksonville 4 0 2 2 2 5 -3 2 8
[/code:1:6b11e60fe4]

Resistencia Riding High After Victory

Resistencia Times 3/8/04 - When Sergei Kovalev scored the game's first and last goal in the seventieth minute, he gave Resistencia its first lead of the tournament. They then went on to hold that lead for their first victory as well. The 1-0 victory over BSE Free Bovines is extra sweet because the Bovines beat Resistencia in the first game of the tournament.
"Last time we played them we were inexperienced with the competitiveness of the tournament," said coach Larry Kurchev. "We came into this tournament looking to make some big strides forward. So far, we're doing well."
Coach Kurchev and the team have done a good job and so far are fulfilling their hopes. They opened up with a loss against BSE Bovines, followed by back to back ties with Pablicosta and the Bellmore Family. Now, they have finally achieved victory.
The go ahead goal came when attacker Joe Krickens sent a crossing pass across the field deep into Bovine territory. The pass was taken by Sergei Kovalev. With some nice ball handling he evaded two Bovine defenders. Then, with only the goalie in front of him, he took his shot. It was a well placed shot in the lower right corner of the goal. It went passed the diving Bovine goalie and into the net.
Immediately, the Resistencia fans went wild. Kovalev was immediately pounced on by his teamates and a celebration ensued. However, they still had twenty minuted to go in the game, more than enough time for the Bovines to tie it up.
However, as time was running out, Resistencia was not to have its victory to denied. They didn't allow a single shot on goal in the last twenty minutes.
As injury time ran out, everyone went wild. Now, Resistencia is in business. They currently have a 1-2-1 record and have 5 points. If the team continues to play like this, they will be well on their way to the elimination rounds.
Back home, everyone is Eagle's Cup crazy. Along with building national pride, the team's success in the tournament help the Resistencian people get thier minds of the conflicts their nation may soon become involved with. "By winning, we help the folks back home have somehting to think about other than the prospects of war," said captian David Liddler.
With war clouds on the horizon with sevral nations, the people look to the national soccer team for hope and national pride.

Jeruselem Government News

Crusaders qualify for next round of The Eagle's Cup, history made

For the first time in it's short history are failed WC XI and WC XII campaigns, Jeruselem has qualified past the 1st round of any tournament. In a battle between two religious teams, Jeruselem upset Praying2God 2-0 in a shock result. Iainjacksonville sprung Mattigool 2-0 in their first win.

In Group B, Jeruselem are now 1st and will finish 1st or 2nd with one game left. In a display reminicent of some classic WC XII games, the Crusaders overpowered the favoured Praying2God with solid defense and constant pressure from the midfield. David Becks head home a decisive header in the 30 minute to put Jeruselem 1-0 up and a solo goal by Manny Jones in the 88 minute put the game beyond doubt.

Competition for the 2nd qualifying position will be interesting. Mattigool play Jeruselem and need a draw or win to quality. If they lose, the winner of Praying2God vs Iainjacksonville game might qualify via superior goal difference. A draw will ensure Mattigool goes through.

Group B
Jeruselem 2 - 0 Praying2God
Iainjacksonville 2 - 0 Mattigool

[code:1:8ce8431a12]
Group B
Pos Team P W D L F A GD Pts PP
Q Jeruselem 5 3 0 2 5 4 1 9 12
2 Mattigool 5 2 2 1 5 4 1 8 11
3 Praying2God 5 1 2 2 4 5 -1 5 8
4 Iainjacksonville 5 1 2 2 4 5 -1 5 8
[/code:1:8ce8431a12]

Jeruselem Goverment News

Mattigool book Quarter-final spot, Praying2God miss out

Jeruselem lost to Mattigool 1-0 who booked their spot in the quarter finals and took 1st position in Group B. Jeruselem who have qualified, was pushed to 2nd ahead of Praying2God who beat Iainjacksonville 1-0.

Jeruselem did not field a full strength team resting key players who are recovering from niggly injuries. Despite the loss, the team looks ready to take on their next opponent and make their first appearance in a quarter final.

Matchday 6 Results

NEWI Cefn Druids 1 - 0 Compound Interest
Wella 1 - 2 Total n Utter Insanity

Mattigool 1 - 0 Jeruselem
Iainjacksonville 0 - 1 Praying2God

Creedence Clearwater 1 - 1 Anaq
Lovisa 1 - 1 Eauz

Pablicosta 2 - 0 BSE Free Bovines
Resistencia 0 - 2 The Belmore Family

[code:1:e1f72552f3]

Group A
Pos Team P W D L F A GD Pts
Q Total n Utter Insanity 6 3 2 1 7 3 4 11
Q NEWI Cefn Druids 6 3 2 1 4 2 2 11
E Compound Interest 6 1 3 2 1 2 -1 6
E Wella 6 0 3 3 1 6 -5 3

Group B
Pos Team P W D L F A GD Pts
1 Mattigool 6 3 2 1 6 4 2 11
2 Jeruselem 6 3 0 3 5 5 0 9
E Praying2God 6 2 2 2 5 5 0 8
E Iainjacksonville 6 1 2 3 4 6 -2 5

Group C
Pos Team P W D L F A GD Pts
1 Creedence Clearwater 6 4 1 1 7 3 4 13
2 Eauz 6 3 2 1 6 3 3 11
E Lovisa 6 1 2 3 3 5 -2 5
E Anaq 6 0 3 3 2 7 -5 3

Group D
Pos Team P W D L F A GD Pts
1 The Belmore Family 6 3 3 0 8 2 6 12
2 BSE Free Bovines 6 2 1 3 2 5 -3 7
E Pablicosta 6 1 3 2 5 6 -1 6
E Resistencia 6 1 3 2 2 4 -2 6

[/code:1:e1f72552f3]

Double post

Resistencia Eliminated After Tough Loss

Resistencia Times 3/11/04-
It's over. Resistencia has been eliminated from the Eagle's Cup. It ended last night with a 2-0 loss to group winner Bellmore Family. "Now we can look forward to the next World Cup and hope we qualify," said captain Dave Liddler, "I think this was a good learning experience."
Despite the loss last night, the team remains confident. "We're upset about the loss," said attacker Sergei Kovalev, "but now we gotta look forward to the future."
Resistencia finished with a win, two losses, and three ties. Their one win came over BSE Free Bovines 1-0. They tied Bellmore Family once and Pablicosta twice, and lost to BSE Free Bovines and the Bellmore Family.
With disappointment, Resistencia fans turned off their television sets late last night. Everyone was stunned that their beloved Eagles couldn't make it to the elimination rounds. "It's too bad," said fan Eric Jones with his Resistencia fitted.
Even with the disappointment, this morning Eagle's Cup banners came down, and World Cup XIV banners were going up. "It's too bad about last night, but now we gotta look at the big stage," said Tina Brown owner of the Downtown Bar &Grill.
Hopefully, the experience the team has gained from this tournament, they will be able to aadvance deep into the next World Cup. Even with the loss, there is a huge parade planned for the team when they return.

The Profit City Times

CINST makes high loss - despite not losing
The rules of business and those of soccer are sometimes not at least compatible. The CINST have started a great qualifying campaign for the Eagles Cup and finally went 1-3-2, which means that they only in two matches went home without one single point. The favorite Total n Utter Insanity didn't manage once to score against the compounded team. Only the Druids form NEWI Cefn Druids defeated the team and the two goals the druids scored in two matches were the only goals against the CINST. The CIFA however doesn't share this enthusiasm. 'We didn't qualify for the second round, that means our investments have not yielded profit. We must increase our productivity and our profitability or the world cup will be one large writeoff' said a spokesperson of the CIFA. The lacking producitvity surely refered to the low amount of goals for amd the low profitability to the relatively low number of points. He continued: 'If we won't profit in the WC13, the investment CINST will be cancelled!'

Les Bleus Prove they CAN win when it counts

In the first round of the Eagle Cup, Les Bleu were up against an experienced team of The Belmore Family. Though, on this day, Les Bleus came out strong scoring 3 goals in a strong 3 - 1 victory.

Les Bleus knew this was a game they had to prove to their fans that they could win against strong teams, and they proved it. In the first half of the match, TBF scored on a penalty kick during the 16th minute. Les Bleus did not match that until the second half, when they flood gates opened up. The first goal came at the 60th minute, then the 72nd and putting the game away at the 78th minute. This game made many fans feel that this cup belongs to them, from the beautiful performance they saw from the team.

The coach said: "Wow, these guys really impressed me. I felt our team was better than a second place in our group, but we proved today, that we are no push over team, and a threat to future matches and World Cups."

The next match will be :

Mattigool or NEWI Cefn Druids vs. Eauz @ Silverymoon Dome

No matter the result of the match, Les Bleus will be playing in the Championship Final or Consolation Final.

Jeruselem Government News

Jeruselem shock TnUI in Quarter Final

At Rauvinwatch Arena, Jeruselem won their first ever quarter final beating Total n Utter Insanity (TnUI) 1-0 in a shock win. The highly rated TnUI was expected to beat the mercurial and unpredictable Crusader team who have improved greatly from WC XI to WC XII.

The Crusader team defended against the potent TnUI attack with the keeper preventing the TnUI from scoring for the game. The Crusader attack rarely threatened until the 70 minute when David Becks fired a low shot under the TnUI keeper.

Captain Harry Kewell spoke to the press "We've made a semi-final and maybe we might win the Eagle's cup, but we must face other teams who can also win.".

A small but vocal squad of Jeruselem fans celebrated late into the night.

Jeruselem Government News

Creedence Clearwater on song in Semi

Creedence Clearwater beat Jeruselem 2-0 in the semi-final of The Eagle's Cup leaving the Crusaders to play the Consolidation Final instead of Grand Final. Captain Harry Kewell looked disappointed as his team had the chance to play a Grand Final, but was beaten by a better team on the day.

From the start, Creedence Clearwater continued it's strong form after pipping BSE Free Bovines (who played the Crusaders in WC XII) 1-0. The Crusaders were unable penetrate the Creedance defense while Creedence made several opportunities only to be stopped by the Jeruselem defense or poor execution in the goal area. Two goals to Creedence in 2nd half was the payoff as the fitter Creedence Clearwater team overpowered the Jeruselem defense.

Les Bleus are Victorious... in a way

Les Bleus found themselves in the Championship Final of The Eagle Cup up against rival Creedene Clearwater. The fans at The Silver Flame Arena packed the stadium making for a great finish. Les Bleus started off the match putting a lot of pressure on the Creedence Defence, but were un able to penetrate it. Les Bleus controlled the first half, but the first half ended in a 0 - 0 tie. In the second half though, Les Bleus got themselves on the scoreboard with a long shot high in the corner of the Net during the 57th minute. Their second goal came in a few minute later during the 61st minute going just past the Creedence Goal Keeper. Unfortunatly, Les Bleus were getting a bit excited about the possiblitity of their first ever championship, and the guard was let down. A Creedence advance caught the defence off guard, and cut through it to put Creedence on the Board at the 82nd minute. Fortunatly for Les Bleus, the score stayed at 2 - 1 victory for Les Bleus.

Coaches Comments : "Wow, I am amazed that our team has finally achieved a championship. Sure it's nothing special, but one needs to get experience, and confidence, if one is going to achieve anything in the World Cup. And Now we can concentrate on the Harmony Cup, and the Future World Cup 13."

Tonight, and for a while, the citizens of Eauz will be celebrating the victory of their team. Les Bleus finally proved to their fans that they are capable of winning when it counts.

After the 2-1 Eauz win over Creedence Clearwater, the festivites were paused to watch the thrilling Penalty kick playoff for third place between NEWI Cefn Druids and Jeruselem, which NEWI won on the last penalty kick 3-2. the Scoreless tie had been broken on a spectacular penalty kick that went off the post and in.

Eagle's Nest President Garric Ashallond presented medals and a silver cup to the runners up Creedence Clearwater and congratualted them on their great show in the Cup.

Once the Clearwater team had cleared the podium and the announcer begain to speak about Les Bleus, the partisan Eauz Crowd began to go crazy as they had realized that what they saw was not a mirage...Eauz had won the Eagle's Cup. The team came to accept their medals and then the Captain was handed a large cup that had the symbol of the Eagle's nest embrazened on ball on it. The Bleus Captain raised the cup in triumph, and the fireworks and confetti went flying.

No reports of rioting were reported in the Nest or Eauz.

(good cup all.)