NationStates Jolt Archive

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The top 8 seeds each get placed into a group of their own.

Seeds
1 Starblaydia
1 Fmjphoenix
3 Jeruselem
4 Sarzonia
5 Hockey Canada
6 Nedalia
7 Chicanada
8 Rejistania

Group A
Starblaydia (1)
Hypocria (11)
Kylaai
South Osettia (13)

Group B
Jeruselem (3)
Funny Looking Islands
Spruitland (11)
Vilita (9)

Group C
Sarzonia (4)
Pacitalia (16)
An archy
Harbinzia

Group D
Nedalia (6)
Oaker (16)
Bedistan (22)
East Lithuania (18)

Group E
Hockey Canada (5)
Krytenia
Kassyyk
Druida (21)

Group F
Fmjphoenix (1)
Vtorbetin
Cockbill Street (15)
Fimble loving peoples (19)

Group G
Rejistania (8)
Oglethorpia
Liverpool England
Kzuu Mai (20)

Group H
Chicanada (7)
Paul Sculthorpe fans
Crystilakere (10)
Gaian Ascendancy (14)

Can We Regain What Is Rightfully Ours?
Starblaydia want their Championship back from Fmjphoenicians

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The Staff
Khim Azanulbizarn, Manager, 37
48 Caps, 5 Goals (10 Caps, 4 Goals at Under-21 Level)
His second time managing this Under-21 team, Khim was accused of having too-negtive an apporach to a style of play, though that managed to take Starblaydia to the Final and retain their #1 Seed spot

The Goalkeepers
1. Nicholas Mathias, GK, 19 - Jhanna United
Uncapped (Uncapped at Under-21 Level)
Jhanna United's sometime reserve 'keeper, Nicolas is a good shot-stopper.
12. Ahab Maestas, GK, 17 - Hallad Reavers
Uncapped (Uncapped at Under-21 Level)
Commanding in the net at the Reavers' youth team, Ahab is growing up big and strong.
Julio I Kyrile - KaMaRi kali Xentira (Rejistanian 1st Division)
Uncapped (Uncapped at Under-21 Level)
Another 'keeper from the land of Karela, half-Rejistanian Kyrile is completely unknown at this point


The Defenders
2. Danzir Garahildim, R/CB, 17 - Tabeck FC
Uncapped (2 Caps, 0 Goals at Under-21 Level)
Another of the Dwarves to come out of the Tabeck-D'Ragh skills academy, Danzir cites Khin Azanulbizarn as his hero.
3. Leopoldo Lopez, L/CB, 20 - Iskara Daii
Uncapped (2 Caps, 0 Goals at Under-21 Level)
Following in the footsteps of Ceri Salisbury, Leo is a solid left-back who can deliver a helluva good cross.
5. Joe Kippenberger, CB, 21 - Jhanna United
Uncapped (8 Caps, 0 Goals at Under-21 Level)
Only a subsitute last time out, Joe comes in for the overage Bedistan-bound Alex Vidal.
6. Raymundo Hernandez, CB, 20 - Internashionale
Uncapped (2 Caps, 0 Goals at Under-21 Level)
Inter's defence has needed some propping up of late, and in Ray they have a good man for the future.
13. Dane Jaeger, SW/CB, 17 - Penningworth United
Uncapped (Uncapped at Under-21 Level)
Making occasional appearances to bring the Pennies back into Liga Starblaydia. Jaegar has plentiful experience already.
14. Ulysses Zielinski, R/LB, 16 - Hallad Reavers
Uncapped (Uncapped at Under-21 Level)
An either-sided full back, 'Uly' is coming on as a great played
20. Heider Stefansson, CB, 15 - Internashionale
Uncapped (Uncapped at Under-21 Level)
Son of Stefan Haldorsson, the famous two-footed left midfielder of many years ago, Heider looks to be a solid defender in the making.


The Midfielders
4. Ernesto Fortuna, DM, 21 - Internashionale
Uncapped (2 Caps, 0 Goals at Under-21 Level)
A worthy replacement for Cuevo, Fortuna is another part of the defensive revival at Inter.
8. Augusto Diaz, R/CM, 18 - Jhanna City
Uncapped (1 Cap, 0 Goals at Under-21 Level)
A solid right-sided player, Diaz links up well with Matranga at 'JCFC'
11. Lazaro Rivera, A/LM, 20 - Corinthian Spirits
Uncapped (2 Caps, 0 Goals at Under-21 Level)
The Spirit of the Spirits is well nd truly with Rivera, as his quick feet and quicker brain can pull off some amazing tricks.
15. Jamal Nguyen, CM, 18 - Hallad Reavers
Uncapped (Uncapped at Under-21 Level)
The Reavers are looking to Jamal to be the solid core of another tough and strong team of the future.
16. Reynaldo, L/CM, 15 - Laf'goh'lith K'druz'ba (Cockbill Street)
Uncapped (Uncapped at Under-21 Level)
A talented left-footer, Reynaldo
17. Menecrates, A/R/L/C/M, 15 - Corinthian Spirits
Uncapped (Uncapped at Under-21 Level)
Every inch a young Fabricio de Souza Lima, Menecrates is a superstar in the making.
21. Virgil Ernesto, DM, 14 - Hecia
Uncapped (Uncapped at Under-21 Level)



The Fowards
7. Giovanni Lopez, RW/SC, 18 - Internashionale
Uncapped (4 Caps, 4 Goals at Under-21 Level)
Despite the new defensive-mindedness of Inter, their future attack will be as hot as ever as long as Giovanni reamains at the club. Unrelated to Leopoldo Lopez, and scored a goal for each of his substitute appearances two years ago.
9. Raul Diaz-Arca, SC, 17 - Corinthian Spirits
Uncapped (2 Caps, 0 Goals at Under-21 Level)
Already a classic finisher, Raul's movement and strength still need work for him to become a real great.
10. Christian Macia, SC, 21 - Vanguard Eagles (Fmjphoenix)
Uncapped (13 Caps, 5 Goals at Under-21 Level)
The first Starblaydi to play in Fmjphoenix, he's an ambassador for his country, while hopefully giving us information on the Fmj way that beat Starblaydi in two U21 Finals.
18. Mercutio, SC, 15 - Point/Grunt AC (Cockbill Street)
Uncapped (Uncapped at Under-21 Level)
The youth coaches in the 'Street think he's cool, and so do we.
22. Rabindra Singh, CF/SC, 13 - Penningworth United
Uncapped (Uncapped at Under-21 Level)
One of the better students at the new Pennies' Academy of Football, Rab could develop nicely.
23. Raphaelo, SC, 13 - Iskara Daii
Uncapped (Uncapped at Under-21 Level)
A little firecracker of a player, he needs to do some growing up before he's ready as a player, of course.


The Kit
Home: Starblaydia play in a traditional all-white with some purple trim.
Away: Starblaydia play in a highly non-traditional all-green with some silver trim.
3rd Strip: In case anyone else decides to play in white-and-green, Starblaydia will play in all-purple shirts with some gold trim.


The Starting XI's Formation
http://www.starblaydestudios.co.uk/Images/StarU21WC16.jpg

Hockey Canada's U21 Roster

Goalkeepers
90-Kyle Thomas :: Age 14 (Captain) 16 caps- Probably the best keeper the Hockey Canadian system has seen ever
1-Dean Smart :: Age 17 0 caps- Good potential, but overshadowed by Thomas
29-Ben Yraen :: Age 21 0 caps- Plays the corners well, but kick is badly needing improvement

Defenders
6-Nick Dunvegan :: Age 19 6 caps- Quickly becoming a fan favourite.
18-Andrew Aberdeen :: Age 19 12 caps- The 6'10 defender is as hard to get around as the Great Wall of China.
28-Michael Feznak :: Age 21 6 caps Great kick and good speed makes him a good choice to play.
32-Mark Habsheid :: Age 17 0 caps- new from the Hockey Canadian system, he has something to prove in the U21WC
2-Alexander Spanolpolis :: Age 18 14 caps- Well used by the Hockey Canadians, he's preparing himself for the U21WC17 where he's expected to shine.
5-Mike Aaras :: Age 20 0 caps- Simple rookie who can finish off any game with under 30 minutes left.
10-Oscar Alba :: Age 18 1 cap- The time he played he nearly blew the game against Atlantis of Vilita. A reason he's not a starter.

Midfielders
11-Justin Tyme :: Age 20 0 caps- When you play in the Beer League, you know you need improving
12-Rahul Kulkarni :: Age 19 14 caps- Experience is key, especially for a player with this much potential.
13-Mike Ko :: Age 17 6 caps- He proved how much of a threat he can be with the U21WC15 over.
17-Josh Noble :: Age 20 8 caps- He's not getting any younger, and it shows
18-Carlos Chuta :: Age 20 0 caps- The bench has automated heaters, so his job won't be too hard.

Forwards
37-Tommy Richleieu :: Age 21 0 caps- With only one shot at a U21 championchip, he'll say "Carpe Diem" just about every game.
21-Jeremy Wagner :: Age 17 0 caps- He wouldn't head the ball to save his life, but if he did he might get a 1 in the caps department.
14-Nick Aenas :: Age 20 0 caps A young gun who hasn't had much experience, none to be exact about it.

Honourary number 99-Coach: Toe Blake

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Kit:
Home: White with red and black trim
Away: Red with white and black trim
3rd: Black with red and white trim

Can we win it all? The roster says it can with all the experience here.

Hypocria - U21 World Cup 16 Squad



Head Coach - Boubacar Dragov

Assistant Coach - Matthias DiMarco



No. Name Pos. U21 Apps U21 Goals

1 Alex Derevko G 3 -

13 Stephen Drakes G 0 -

22 Simon Ware G 0 -


2 Chris Golla D 0(1) 0

3 Ricky Poskas D 3 0

5 Sergey Kreska D 3 1

6 Alexei Brazier D 2(1) 0

12 Benedict Mikos D 0(2) 0

14 Paul Steele D 0 0

16 Tony Webber D 0 0

21 Marius Black D 0 0


4 Marcus Baxter M 3 1 (c)

7 Luca Bryant M 0(1) 0

8 Bora Burdali M 1(2) 2

11 David Nicol M 0 0

15 Luc Sinclair M 3 0

17 Kieran Loskov M 0 0

19 Alex Rytter M 0 0


9 Danny West F 3 1

10 Amir Karic F 0 0

18 Victor Blanco F 0(2) 0

20 Chris Hayes F 0 0


Formation 5 - 3 - 2

Home Kit - Blue with white trim
Away Kit - White with blue trim


(OOC - And because i'm a generous soul)
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HC Spotlight: Starblaydia & Fmjphoenix

Starblaydia

We kick off the HC spotlight with the Rayzors, they have a dynasty being built right now and surely won't let it die in the U21WC16. With players like Christian Macia and Joe Kippenberger to provide experience to the team, you know they'll go far. Keepers Mathias, Maestas and Kyrile are all inexperienced and will have to prove themselves in the round robin for any reports to be made. Khim Azanulbizarn surely made a good choice picking his team this year.

Fmjphoenix

The Junior Vikings are reigning champs and won't let just anybody take it away from them. Players like Chen and Vogel won't get any younger as the cups wear on and it could spell disaster, thats D-I-S-A-S-T-E-R for you non readers out there. Glory days don't always last and the Junior Vikings will find that out someday. They're aging, but still good.

Sarzonian Junior Stars

Coach: Valentin Kienzl.
Assistants: Troy Perkins, Avid Mashoda

ROSTER (starters in BOLD)

(3-5-2 formation)

GOALKEEPERS:
39 Blaine Wilcox (Portland Timbers): Wilcox led the way for the Junior Stars to yet another semifinal appearance, but is being counted on to lead the team to its first World Cup title at any level. At 21 years old, his time is drawing close to an end.
40 Frank Handley (Saugerties Snakes): At 17 years old, he's the youngest of the Junior Stars, but he's also the brightest goalkeeping prospect to come up through the ranks of the Sarzonian youth program.

DEFENDERS:
2 Kenny Houlder (Saugerties): A recent signee for the Snakes, this 15 year old has dominated the youth program. He spends a lot of time in the film room studying the tendencies of his opponents and working on his game with coaches.
48 Candi Croshetti (Portland City College): She was such a dominant force on the women's team at City College that Trottier gave her a look. The 21 year old earned a roster spot and may find her way in the starting 11.
33 Jonas Thompson (no affiliation): Signed originally to provide defencive depth, takes over in the starting 11 with age-related eligibility claiming a starting defender. He can play any one of three defencive positions in Kienzl's new, more attack-oriented style of play. He's 20 years old.
37 Brian Sandt (New Praeton College): At 18 years old, the youthful Sandt has bloodlines to his advantage, being the younger brother of senior starting goalkeeper Horace Sandt.

MIDFIELDERS
4 Jenna Raven (Paleuma High School): Though she's only 20 years old, she won a starting job with her skill and her maturity and starred in the previous World Cup.
19 Jarret Sanderson (Woodstock Wild): Labelled as a malcontent, Sanderson has matured enormously in the past few World Cups. He's 19 years old and will probably be a star in the years to come.
8 Ben Traber (Woodstock Wolves - semipro): This 21 year old left high school and didn't catch on with a college side, so he decided to play semipro ball instead. He caught on as a natural at possession football and may trigger a more offensive-minded approach in future Cups.
24 Roger Lipscomb (Joe Gibbs University): Previously added to the roster for depth at defensive midfielder, Lipscomb has become known as a rugged force, especially for a 20 year old.
29 Alexei Nemenoff (Woodstock Wolves): This 19 year old emigre from The Island of Rose showed up with some of the best ball skills of anyone on the team, but his match fitness isn't where it needs to be to play more than a half at a time.
19 Jalen Cisco (unaffiliated): At 16 years old, adds some depth to the thinnest Junior Stars team in years.

FORWARDS:
17 Marshall Hendricks (Woodstock City College): Easily the most mature player on the field, surpassing even the 21 year olds on the squad despite being only 19. Proved to be a bigtime scorer in the previous World Cup.
35 Carson Peeters (Rypien College): At 21 years old, he's just finding his way in international football after a position change.
44 Karen Belgrade (Stephen Stills High School): At 19 years old, she has a future ahead of her after dominating her high school's football leagues, both girls and boys.

The Nedalia Lions

- Attacking Football.



COACHES

- Brent Vent: 50 year old head coach. 4 - 1 - 2

- Opit Newman: 46 year old assistant coach.




GOALKEEPERS

Hard Dans (7 U21 caps):
- 19 years old Strundanne keeper. Calm and poised, he is great with his hands and when defending crosses and corner. Despite his young age, has had a superb season for Strundanne this year. Was a reserve in U21 World Cup 14 but did not play, but he was the starter for the 7th placed Lions team in U21 WC 15.

Ulder Cross:
- 21 year old Momesta keeper, he is the reserve goalkeeper of the squad. Also featured as a reserve keeper in U21 WC 14 and 15, but didnt play in either.

Dana Hamoud:
- 18 year old reserve keeper for Rappor. Was called up to the U21 WC squad for WC 15, but did not feature.




DEFENDERS

Mohammed Khadra (15 U21 caps/0 goals):
- 21 year old Riviera FC central defender, he is extremely poised and professional. Was a starter in the U21 World Cup 14 and 15 squads, playing very well. Has been named Captain for WC 16.

Gary Stewart (15 U21 caps/0 goals):
- 20 year old Andestranne central defender, is the opposite of his partner Khadra. Extremely intense and volatile, known for his hard tackles. Starter on the U21 World Cup 14 and 15 squads alongside Khadra.

Ken Demme (14 U21 caps/0 goals):
- 20 year old Captera left defender, known for his explosiveness and his offensive runs. Featured in U21 World Cup 14 and 15, being one of the top defenders in the tournaments.

Emmanuel (7 U21 caps/0 goals):
- 19 year old Porasse right defender. Was picked for the U21 World Cup 14 squad but did not play. Not frequent starter for last placed Porasse, but impresses when he does. Very agile and athletic, his toughness could be upped a notch.

Alred Barnes:
- 18 year old reserve central defender. Plays for Woodston, tackling being his strength. His first international tournament.

Fred Onno (4 U21 caps/0 goals):
- 18 year old reserve left defender. Back up on the Woodston squad, has not seen large amounts of minutes this year. Is considered, however, to be one of the brighter prospects of Nedalian football.

Waleed Ahmar (1 U21 caps/0 goals)- 17 year old reserve right defender. Features on the Nurpert side with, usually logging the last 20 minutes of a match. Tough tackling defender who needs to work on his agility.




MIDFIELDERS

Khalil Jamhurra (7 U21 caps/4 goals):
- 21 year old Aanjar left winger. A tough player with phenomenal stamina and speed. Was one of the highlights of the U21 WC 15 tournament.

Udrich Jansen (6 U21 caps/0 goals):
- 18 year old Kimstronne right winger. Selected for the U21 World Cup 14 but did not play, but was the starting RM in the WC 15 side.

Carpard Nutting (9 U21 caps/0 goals):
- 21 year old Groftanne defensive midfielder. Was a reserve behind Trent Hardman in WC 14, but became a starter in WC 15, performing very well. Is a lock for the senior squad when the chance comes around.

Constantine (11 U21 caps/6 goals):
- 18 year old Momesta attacking midfielder. Was a big player in the teams U21 World Cup 14 run to the finals. Perhaps the most gifted player on the squad, is considered to be the next big thing out of Nedalia.

Fred Fox (3 U21 caps/ 0 goals):
- 18 year old Zupera reserve left winger. Exceptional pace, good on the ball. Featured in the WC 15 squad, playing well when given the chance.

Montell Drums (3 U21 caps/0 goals):
- 19 year old Riviera reserve right winger. Played a part in U21 WC 15.

Sammy Ewene (1 U21 caps/0 goals):
- 19 year old Edensanne reserve defensive midfielder. A good passer with decent pace, has a lot of potential. Featured in 1 game in U21 WC 15.

Ballson Yellow:
- 15 year old Shoreland United attacking midfielder. Young but exceptionally talented. Already has speed to match anyone's. Must learn to be consistent.






FORWARDS

Dennis Howard (9 U21 caps/6 goals):
- 21 year old Aanjar FC striker. Was a reserve in the U21 WC 14 side, but started, and led the team in scoring, in U21 WC 15. Good at everything, another lock for the senior squad when his time comes.

Lumiere (7 U21 caps/4 goals):
- 17 year old Nurpert striker. Has a great knack for scoring goals, was a starter in the U21 WC 15 side.

Sean Townsend (2 U21 caps/0 goals):
- 19 year old Rappor reserve striker. Featured in U21 WC 15, but didn't contribute much. Has been inconsistent, but can be deadly when on.

Peter Merhi (4 U21 caps/1 goals):
- 20 year old Dorpar reserve striker. Tonnes of potential starting to come to life. Played a part in U21 WC 15.

The Original Young Vtorbetites

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The Manager

Joshua Wilhite - A former wine entrepreneur, Wilhite is trying his hand at a new game altogether, and since big businessmen in Vtorbetin get to do pretty much whatever they want, we let him. The U21WC will be treated as a sample of the real thing, but it hopefully won't leave a bitter taste in the mouth.

The Goalkeeper

James Shrader - A lifelong tennis player, Shrader will have no difficulty with hand-eye coordination. However, footballs are a little bigger than tennis balls, and at a tender 20 years old, he'll have to prove himself a real ace to keep his sheets clean.

The Defenders

Travis Valdivia - Valdivia is known more for his building skills than his fancy footwork, but is nevertheless one of the stars of the team, and the 19 year old will be expected to put up walls of a different kind in this competition.

Jeffery Struble - As hairdresser to the stars, Struble knows how to deal with pressure, and will be crucial in keeping the team cool. He'll be looking to stay a cut above the rest over the next few weeks.

John Charlton - Having been an accountant for two years, Charlton is good with numbers, and should prove to be a brilliant tactician. However, he'll need to keep an eye on how many balls get past him, and hope that when it's all over, he doesn't find himself in the red.

Wayne Dorn - As a student, Dorn is more than comfortable with deadlines, but time is running out to prove himself good enough for the World Cup full squad. Will he make the grade?

The Midfielders

Carlos Aitken - Currently a civil servant, Aitken is more used to the realms of politics than the urine-stained pit that is the changing room. However, he aims to get the public's vote, and put in a blue ribbon performance.

Chris Coronado - Working as a gym instructor, Coronado is the fittest of the eleven players, and aims to use his tremendous strength to dominate any midfield. But will he be able to keep up with the pace of the international tournament?

Jacob Balderas - As a travelling salesman, Balderas should have no problems with the amount of walking that goes into a ninety-minute match. He aims to give us the goods, and knock on the door of the full squad line-up.

Howard Robichaud - Robichaud works as a factory-hand, and plays for the company amateur team. His skills include long throws and free kicks, but will this be enough to send the opponents packing?

The Forwards

Travis Baumann - Currently unemployed, Baumann has been able to spend a lot of time practicing his technique. Hopefully the team benefits from his sterling performances.

Randy Ingalls - This social worker has a mean left foot, and can often be seen scoring a goal or two in Vtorbetin's amateur leagues. Can he motivate the team into putting in some top-class performances?

And so, hemmed in with some rather bad puns, we can see Vtorbetin's finest players (at least for the moment, anyway). Can they deliver in what is Vtorbetin's first venture into international football? One thing's for certain - the next few weeks will be a rollercoaster ride of emotion.

Current football record:

P W D L F A +/-
0 0 0 0 0 0 0

So...things look good so far...

The Bureaucratic Tribune

OAF releases roster of Junior Ostriches

Megalopolis City (BT) -- In line with the full-fledged Oglethorpian squad, the Under 21 team has been dubbed the Junior Ostriches; wholly expected to deliver the same lackluster preformance as its senior. That said, here is the Junior Ostriches's starting eleven.

Manager/Coach/Head Moral Supporter: Ruben van Mistletoe
Formation: 3-4-3

Goal: Tom T. Kein

Defense:
Dwight White
Michael Shootson-Arnold
Mitch Pritchell

Midfield:
Grant G. Green
Nathaniel Falls
Lionel Linear
Charles Albert-Herbson Cabbages

Offense:
Stephe Mogler
Maximillian Black Jr.
Hugh G. Dawkins

Serving as captain for the squad is exciting young forward-midfielder Charles Albert-Herbson Cabbages.

"We've got a good squad of guys. Stephe Mogler is a great forward and I think he's going to make this team good. I also admire his stance on cheating; the man just plain wouldn't do it, no matter how much I- erm, others try to tempt him," said Cabbages.

Of note is appointment of Oglethorpian striker Ruben van Mistletoe -- whom many thought would head the primary Ostriches squad, but lost out to Torrence Black.

"It's fine," said Ruben van Mistletoe. "At least my players actually have some capacity to improve -- unlike Torrence's players, whom flat out suck. Save my two boys, Cletus and Luud," said Mistletoe without a hint of bias at all, given the fact the two players mentioned were the former striker's sons.

The Junior Ostriches are expected to only accomplish one thing; a victory. "That's achievement enough," said OAF President Joe Staplin. "Last place in the group; we just want one win."

Oglethorpia's Junior Ostriches are poised to make their first attempt at fulfillment of the goal in just a short few weeks.

---

ADDENDUM!

For all those godmod-injury dealies, I give a most hearty, ready and resounding YES -- with the clause that I shall do similarly if you do to me ;)

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y197/Spruitland/sportsgazette.jpg


Bunnies ready for World Cup 16

The Spruitland Bunnies are in full preparation for the 16th Under-21 World Cup, training hard in a Spartan-style training camp in the Berger Mountains. There are some changes in the selection, but the core of the team remains the same. Except for right winger Samson Trouwel, that is, whose 22nd birthday came just a few months too early.

Some subs have moved up to the first team and vice versa, and a few newcomers have made it into the squad, but coach Cor Bensen will rely heavily on the experienced players of the previous World Cup.

“Our expectations are higher this time,” Bensen says. “Well, that’s not all that surprising, since we had no expectations in the previous World Cup. But we’re aiming for a spot in the second round, this time. It’ll depend a bit on the group draw, but I’m confident we can achieve that goal, regardless of who we face.”

Spruitland Under-21 topscorer Dirk Jools, two goals at the previous World Cup, is slightly more ambitious than that.

“Semi final,” he says. “And five goals for me. Anything less and I’ll consider this tournament a failure.”


Coach: Cor Bensen (45) - record: 1-1-2

Goalkeepers

1. Simon Briers (21, GK), Sporting Mayo – 4 caps, 6 conceded
Discovered at the previous Under-21 World Cup, Briers is the least passed goalie in the First Division and destined to move on to the senior squad soon.
12. Arlen Mennes (20, GK), Jonesville City – 0 caps
New on the scene but already Jonesville’s regular starter, fast to the ground but is weak on high balls.
22. Tristan Verelst (18, GK), New Brux FC – 0 caps
New Brux FC’s backup goalie, Tristan has been parked on the bench all season, and is expected to do the same at this World Cup.

Defenders

2. Stan Hondts (21, D R), New Brux FC – 4 caps
Stan returns to his position on the right, though his season at New Brux FC hasn’t exactly been outstanding.
3. Detlef Weber (17, D LC), Taliki Tihrara'ny (Rejistania) – 1 cap
Played 30 minutes at the previous World Cup and is currently on loan to the Rejistani H1SR. Young Detlef pushes Chris Yugo to the substitute bench.
4. Nico Van Dyck (21, D C, Captain), Thiel United – 4 caps
Playing a good season with Thiel, strong Nico Van Dyck returns as captain.
5. Fritz Wigmeister (19, D C), New Brux FC – 2 caps
Regular substitute for New Brux FC, tackle-strong and a player for the future.
15. Koenraad Opdebeeck (18, D LC), Thiel United – 1 cap
Technical defender, has a great long pass. Sub at Thiel, in competition with Wigmeister for a place in the first team at this World Cup.
16. Chris Yugo (20, D L), Fonstown Rovers – 4 caps
Solid and pacey wing back, determined to prove he deserves a first team spot in the Under-21 squad.
19. Gilles De Wilde (17, D/DM RC), RFC Godiva – 0 caps
Versatile up-and-comer, playing himself into the picture at RFC Godiva.

Midfielders

6. Ulrich De Ridder (21, M C), Thiel United – 3 caps
Sub at the previous World Cup, Ulrich has matured at Thiel and rightfully moves up a step.
7. Gary Mariano (18, AM R), RFC Godiva – 1 cap
Pesky little fellow and expected to use his pace to his full advantage.
8. Ziggy Wilander (20, M C), Sativa Stoners – 4 caps
Strong midfielder with decent technical skills and a splitting final pass, sometimes forgets the defensive aspects of the game.
11. Lee Beck (20, AM L), Brickell United (Nedalia) – 4 caps, 1 goal
Slightly lacking in pace but with accurate passing/crossing, Beck is expected to play a big part in the team.
14. Lucius Bergen (20, AM RC), RFC Godiva – 0 caps
Solid attacking midfielder, occasional sub at RFC Godiva, hasn’t been able to show his full potential yet.
17. Torsten Prins (17, AM LC), Sativa Stoners – 0 caps
Up-and-comer, playing well for Sativa, pacier than Beck, but lacks some maturity.
20. Eddie Engels (18, M RC), FC Albertine – 1 cap
Versatile midfielder, has not played much this season.
21. Richard Prutzer (20, M LC), New Frigobox FC – 1 cap
Defensive-minded centre midfielder who can play on the left if the need arises.

Forwards

9. Juri Kocarov (18, ST), Lepus FC – 3 caps
Pacey striker, somewhat erratic and prone to mood swings. Referees generally don’t like him.
10. Dirk Jools (20, ST), FC Albertine – 4 caps, 2 goals
Great technical skills, slightly too individualistic, Jools is expected to score more than once.
13. Harry Ooyevaar (19, ST), Jonesville City – 2 caps
Good overall striker, team-player, Harry will spend most of the time on the bench, but should see some action.
18. Chico Provoost (16, ST), Sporting Mayo – 0 caps
Up-and-comer, great with his head, decent technical skills, lacks some stamina.


Team Kit
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y197/Spruitland/SPRkit.jpg




I Give My Opponents Permission To:

Choose Scorers: Y
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GodMod Injury Events N

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Yellow Card Players: Y
GodMod Other Events: Y

“Good evening and welcome to this special Under-21 World Cup 16 edition of The Sports Desk. With me tonight is Radio Hypocrium’s football summariser Brian Gray. Brian, with the opening match fast approaching what can we expect from the Hyppos this time around?”



“Good evening everyone. Well Steve I think the Hyppos are going to be a much tougher prospect then they were two years ago, then we were the new boys, now we’re the number 11 seeds. Obviously the new coach is a factor too. Boubacar Dragov has seen this all many times before with Crystilakere and I’m sure he will be relishing the prospect of perhaps meeting his former employers in the competition.”

“Two years ago the Hyppos were very defensive in their outlook but I spoke to the coach a few days ago and he said he was encouraging them to get forward, to take the game to the opposition. He also told me he intended to stick to the 5-3-2 formation as most of the players are comfortable with that system because most of their clubs employ it.”


1


21 5 6


2 3


4 8 15


10 9

“He has an experienced core of players who featured in the last tournament to call on and that is crucial, experience is something we didn’t have before.”

“We know that Derevko is a safe pair of hands in goal and in front of him Kreska, Brazier and Black will form an imposing barrier. On the wings expect to see Poskas and Golla breaking forward at every opportunity.”

“In midfield is where Hypocria has its strength, Baxter, Burdali and Sinclair are all veterans of the last squad so they won’t be fazed by the occasion. Baxter and Sinclair will just sit in there, covering the runs of the fall backs, and allowing Burdali to make his breaks into the box. Baxter, the captain, will be key. Not just with his defensive work but with that wonderful range of passing he has, his ability from set pieces and of course those 25 yard screamers he occasionally unleashes.”

“Up front it’s a classic big man/small man partnership. The crosses will be aimed towards Karic while West will be looking to get on the end of the knock downs and those Baxter through balls.”



“Thank you Brian. Well after the break we will look at the Hyppo’s opponents as we preview the groups. But now it’s time for some words from our sponsors.”

~ Next U21 Campaign Begins ~

GANN Sports Desk: ~ Yet another campaign begins, and another chance to make their own destiny. "We're not simply settling for a simple knock out and out this time. We have a goal this time to see the quarters 'and' to get to 10th best ranking. Our team is good enough for that, and we're not going to wait 20 or 30 cups to get to that level. We're better than that, and our squad is going to prove it." ...the still quite vocal Coach Ni Morisato mentioned.

The squad looks to overcome a series of good starts that turn into far too tight hose races, one being a downer in WC 14 as Hockey Canada knocked out the Soft Wings, and a reversal of a 7-0 over Hypocria prevented the same fate, only to lose out to the soccer power of Starblaydia. This time looks to do better than even this, and the squad looks hungry enough to push even harder.


Under 21 National Team Roster: (24 Players)
Nickname: Soft Wings

Coaches:
Head: Ni Morisato (38)
Assistants: Corla Masaki (32), Nen Dendar (33)

Goalies:
02. Gwenar Masaki (Minas Jurai`alheim) (21)
05. Parr Clark (Rhur Eternus) (20)
07. Ash Kerensky (Seraphim Prime) (19)
06. Mace Takaou (New Montana) (16)

Forwards:
15. Freeze Kerensky (Archonis Oracalii) (18)
16. Endo Billings (Opal Diamond) (21)
19. Allan Lamar (Hilton Head) (20)
20. Bayless McKenna (Entwinar I) (18)
21. Haim Morisato (Rhur Eternus) (19)
39. Erad N’Buta (Grand Base) (16)

Midfielders:
26. Reece Kamiki (Destiny) (16)
22. David C. Washington (Marble) (16)
29. Drew Taney (Blue Diamond) (20)
31. Creed Hazen (Minas Jurai`alheim) (21)
34. Ortho Masaki (Emerald) (21)
36. Sionek Rara (Entwinar I) (20)
37. Dalaa Grend (Sien) (18)

Defenders:
42. Bryan Millard (Marble) (21)
45. Tor Sha-Fir (Rhur Eternus) (20)
51. Arik Nir (Strana Mecha) (21)
53. Eli Levi (Ithillii Goddessa) (20)
55. Ido Kerensky (Minas Destinus) (20)
61. Ma Meng-Dan (Clan Home) (19)
62. Jacob Morisato (Opal Diamond) (18)

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

U21 National Team Starters:

Keeper: (Home Guard)
GK: Gwenar Masaki

Defenders: (Shield)
RD: Tor Sha-Fir
LD: Bryan Millard
CD: Arik Nir

Midfielders: (Armor)
LM: Creed Hazen
RM: Drew Taney
CFM: Ortho Masaki
CRM: Sionek Rara

Strikers: (Sword)
LF: Endo Billings
RF: Freeze Kerensky
CF: Haim Morisato


A host of new names take up spots on the roster to prove the means intended, to become the best. The Soft Wings even have begun to draw talent from the now fast developing Rim Republic Core Worlds, as even they seek to prove their capability on the biggest of stages.


~ Under 21 World Cup 13:
Team: P W D L F:A GD Po
Gaian Ascendancy 4 1 1 2 9:14 -5 4

~ Under 21 World Cup 14:
Team: P W D L F:A GD Po
Gaian Ascendancy 3 1 0 2 3:3 0 3

~ Under 21 World Cup 15:
Team: P W D L F:A GD Po
Gaian Ascendancy 4 2 0 2 14:9 +5 6

~ Under 21 Overall Record:
Team: P W D L F:A GD Po
Gaian Ascendancy 11 4 1 6 26:26 0 13


History isn't on the Soft Wings side as yet, as they have to overcome strong opposition again, but this time with more experience to back them up. But the Soft Wings also to this as a place to improve, with a better record a goal.

The end result is improvement, with the final goal of a U21WC championship the end of all the means mentioned.

=============

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GodMod Goalscoring Events: Y

Injure Players: Y
GodMod Injury Events Y

Red Card Players: Y
Yellow Card Players: Y
GodMod Other Events: Y

Group Draw Pits Vtorbetin Against Champs

The Group draw for the sixteenth instalment of the Under 21 World Cup has been completed, and debutants Vtorbetin have been handed a real chance of qualifying for the second round, after being placed in Group F with Fimble loving peoples, Cockbill Street (the fifteenth seeds) and Fmjphoenix (the world number one and current U21 champions).

The draw was shown live on VTV, with an estimated 30 million people (roughly two thirds of the country's population) tuning in to witness the fate of Vtorbetin's first ever international football team. Team coach Joshua Wilhite was also present at the draw, and is now confident of moderate success in the country's first internatonal sporting exploit.

"I think we've been handed a particularly nice group here. Obviously Fmjphoenix are going to be tough opponents, and we can't expect to get too much from them, but I believe that we should be able to prise points away from Cockbill Street and Fimble loving peoples. Our main aim has to be to not finish bottom of this group. If we can do that, then I'll be pleased with our performance. With the Baptism of Fire Cup coming soon, the players have to prove that they've got what it takes to make that team. In fact, I think we could safely call this a talent-spotting competition more than anything else. Nevertheless, I'm expecting some great football and, hopefully, a little bit of success."

And so, with the Under 21 World Cup on the verge of beginning, here are our predictions for how the games will go.

Fmjphoenix - A tough, tough game against some great opponents, Vtorbetin can't expect much from this game. A draw is unlikely. A win seems near impossible. Prediction - 3:0 L

Cockbill Street - Any team ranked lower than tenth is vulnerable, and this is no exception. They'll have to play at their best, but we suspect that Vtorbetin could pull off something amazing here against a seasoned veteran. Prediction - 2:2 D

Fimble loving peoples - Although experience is on FLPs side, our fresh-faced fledglings could prove too much for the rather lacklustre display that is expected from this team. Prediction - 3:1 W

Starblaydia Drawn With...
...well, nobody really.

Starblaydia's fourteenth attempt at a World Chamionship crown at Under-21 level starts with somewhat of a whimper. With Starblaydia now the joint-best team in the world - notice how whoever beats us has to be the best team in the world - with Fmjphoenix, we've still been placed in Group A for the third time in a row, confirming Starblaydia's general dominance over the past six years. Starblaydia have actually only been out of the top-three in the rankings stakes once in the last twenty years, and even then we were seventh and still got a Group of our own.

Group A
Starblaydia (1)
Hypocria (11)
Kylaai
South Osettia (13)

So, instead of the usual 'Who's Who?' of Under-21 football, we have more of a 'Who?' Group. With two other Atlantian 'as per bloody usual' Oceania nations, Starblaydia will be looking to continue their dominance over their Regional 'rivals' at Under-21 level.

Hypocria are certainly a 'who?' of international football, though former Starblaydia manager Guylain N'Dumbu-Nsungu seems to like them, though we have no idea why. Kylaai seem to do well in Cups of Harmony but little else while South Osettia have been totally silent of late, and are expected to drop off the radar any time soon. Starblaydia Expects three wins from three, but we all know that life doesn't go with expectations.

“Welcome back to The Sports Desk for this special Under-21 World Cup 16 preview show. Brian Gray is with me this evening. Brian, you’ve seen the groups, the Hyppos have been drawn in Group A, what are your thoughts on their prospects?”



Group A
Starblaydia (1)
Hypocria (11)
Kylaai
South Osettia (13)

“Well the name that jumps out straight away is Starblaydia. The rankings don’t lie, they are joint top seeds for a reason. And now their out to take back the title they lost two years ago they could prove more dangerous than ever. Certainly the favourites for the group by some distance. The Starblaydi media certainly think so.”

“The key clash will be between Hypocria and South Osettia. With just two places between the sides in the rankings it will certainly be close. Coach Dragov will have a point to prove as he was sacked by Crystilakere following a 1-0 defeat to South Osettia two years ago. Can we do it? Of course we can.”

“The unranked Kylaai are something of an unknown quantity but should finish with the wooden spoon. It never seems to work out like that though.”

“So a second place finish for the Hyppos is my prediction. However with recent comments from Starblaydia referring to their side gaining maximum points from a group of 'nobodies' the Hyppos will be going all out to show just what they can do.”



“Thank you Brian. With matchday 1 fast approaching we wish Hypocria the best of luck. From Brian and myself it’s goodnight.”

"Come on you Blues!"

Jeruselem Government News

U21 Champions XVI begin. Sweet 16 for who?

It's the U21 championship again. Jeruselem are back for the torture of not making the semis even though they have lost two games in XIV and XV total.

(F) Female
* Active
% Not Miss Universe 2004

Team roster
G - Sheik El Mara *
G - Janice Smith (F)
D - Abrams Shalom *
D - Jamie Holdstein *
D - Martyr Bomba *
D - Girda Shimie (F) *
D - Robert Champagne (C)
M - Yamosha Yoshiba
M - Sid Sterlying
M - Peter Costello
M - Alexander Upper
M - Antony the Abbott
S - Kicka Thabell
S - Jennifer Hawkins (F) %
S - Cain Abel

Group B
Jeruselem (3)
- That's us
Funny Looking Islands (19)
- We meet the islanders again, but as the lowest ranked team they are the underdogs.
Spruitland (11)
- Last U21 surprise package, but can they match the quality from Jeruselem and Vilita
Vilita (9)
- Another attempt as last U21 wasn't their best. However the jungle kitties are still a force to be reckoned with.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y197/Spruitland/sportsgazette.jpg


Bunnies buggered?

Group B
Jeruselem (3)
Funny Looking Islands
Spruitland (11)
Vilita (9)


“It could have been worse. We could have had three teams ranked above us,” was Bunnies coach Cor Bensen’s grumbling response to the group draw.

Clearly Bensen had entered the draw ceremony hoping for an easy group, but it seems the young Spruitlanders will actually have to earn their spot in the Second Round. While the Funny Looking Islands should form no noticable obstacle, they’ll have their hands full with 3rd ranked Jeruselem, and the match against close-ranked Vilita will likely be the decider.

“Well, we play Vilita first,” striker Dirk Jools says confidently, “so we’ll be fresh and motivated. We’ll know where we stand pretty soon. I’m not worried. I still say we make it to the semis.”

While Jools is not exactly known for modesty and it’ll have to remain to be seen if a place in the semi final is feasible, he is correct that playing Vilita first is not a bad thing. Hopefully the Spruitlanders can pull off at least a draw, which would leave the option to go through on goal difference.

And, while Jeruselem clearly has one of the better youth teams in the world, the Bunnies may just surprise against them. Depending on how things go, they may need to, since Spruitland faces the top seeds of their group on matchday three.

Five In a Match and Only A One-Goal Win?
High scoring doesnt mean high victory for Starblaydia

Five goals in a Starblaydi Under-21 encounter is not common, its just that Starblaydia usually score the vast majority of them. Not so on today's match, as Starblaydia scored three of the five to down Hypocria.

Giovanni Lopez opened Starblaydia's scoring, striking left-footed just inside the penalty area to hit a great shot into the roof of the net. That's five caps and five goals for the young, versatile Inter player, on course for Zhorin Tumunzahar's record of 18 goals from 18 games for the Under-21s. Young striker Raul Diaz-Arca bagged the second, set up by Christian Macia as he pulled the ball back from the touchline for Diaz-Arca to finish with the simplest of free tap-ins.

By that time, however, Hypocria had scored twice themselves, making a mockery of Azanulbizarn's much-vaunted defence training of two years ago. Azanulbizarn. however, was obviously satisfied with the defence, so then threw on three forward-minded players, a move which surely won the game for Starblaydia.

Unusually it was three players with only one name who came on, Reynaldo, Mercutio and Menecrates, throwing themselves at the opposition goal at every oppurtunity. Eventually it was oh-so-simple. Diaz-Arca to Menecrates: Goal. The fact Menecrates had got himself into space, then rounded the 'keeper with a simple hop, step and shot.

Starblaydia's attacking potential looks awesome, but they need to hold their defences together to go all the way again.

The Rejistanian Young Orange-Blues

Coach: Kansu Lyku
Co-coach: Lyku Kansu

Goalkeepers:
Viki Tehi, 20, Hekali Divensi

(Semi Lyk, 19, Matix Veran)
(Taki I Sa, 17, Nita~eda Ynu)

Defenders:
Vejin Jara, 20, Sen-La-Sa~o Relekhati
Taka Sali, 18, Maiju Makin
Kansu I Kansu, 17, Niadi Xalki
Linkosa Myk, 19, Harari Ynu
Jen Ji, 19, Venike Kalesa Kaletri
Verise Lati, 18, Mirare Nanti

(Seja I Siki, 17, Karela lines)
(Hata Kansu, 18, Sikane Salan)
(Xan Etva, 19, Hetlasane Hetkali)
(Yen Lira, 16, Desnike Sekhika)
(Kansu Jenji, 19, Harari Kamex)
(Sanada Miju, 21, Myju Kaletri)

Midfielders:
Takil Manik, 19, Jinhes Junis
Invaril Takil, 20, Inkatil Redy
Sink~hil Syku, 18, Vaje~n Sekhika

(Jerda Kiki, 17, Sikane Salan)
(Seneteramanasiri "SeKa" Kalamanaserexesesikehidimerevenu, 19, Sijitalatirikimidateme-Inanakasesyja Ines)
(Ji Sa, 20, Matix Omeh)

Forwards:
Aehi Iuesta, 19, Kalisimu Kaletri

(Inkatil Hisiril, 21, Miral Kimi)

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y197/Spruitland/sportsgazette.jpg


Chalk one up for Chico!

Spruitland – Vilita: 1 – 0
(83’ Provoost)

With a powerful header off a corner in the 83rd minute of a close game, debutant Chico Provoost, who had been on the field less than ten minutes, clinched the three points for Spruitland in the important first game of the tournament.

Young Chico came on the field in the 75th, replacing Harry Ooyevaar, who was in the starting line-up thanks to a one match suspension for regular starter Juri Kocarov, a remainder from the friendly match against Rejistania where Juri kneed a defender in the groin. Ooyevaar did not impress against Vilita, unable to lose his marker if his life depended on it, and his substitution didn’t come a minute too soon for the Spruitland supporters.

Chico Provoost started his international career slightly too eager, taking a yellow card in less than a minute after a reckless two-footed tackle on a Vilita defender.

“That sure woke me up,” Chico said after the match. “I was stoked to be given a chance already, and just went in there ready to give it all. But then I got booked before I even touched the ball. So I said to myself, Chico, I said, just chill out and do your thing, man. And that’s what I did.”

That he did. On an inch-perfect inswinging corner from Lee Beck, Chico narrowly rose above everyone else and connected his head perfectly to the ball to clip it in off the post. There was some pushing and pulling on both sides, but nothing too blatant to warrant referee intervention.

The corner kick was a rare chance in a match between two closely ranked teams who were both unwilling to take excessive risks, knowing that a loss could turn out to be costly. Physical battles were the main order of the day, but a fairly indulgent referee kept the number of bookings to a minimum.

Vilita had come closest to the opening goal when a long distance shot early in the second half crashed against the upright and a panicking Spruitland defense had to scramble the ball away. A direct free kick from Lee Beck was the closest the Bunnies could come to a reply, but it lacked strength and finesse to disturb the Vilitan goalkeeper.

Both teams seemed ready to settle for a point when a Vilita defender over-judged a backpass, giving the Spruitland Bunnies a cheap corner kick, one they fully cashed in on. The remaining seven minutes plus overtime was a Vilitan battery on the Spruitland defense, which bent dangerously, but didn’t break. A questionable incident when a Vilitan striker went down in a tightly packed penalty area could have been decided either way, but luckily the referee kept his cool.

Spruitland coach Cor Bensen was visibly relieved after a nerve-racking two hours and embraced 16-year old match-winner Chico Provoost like a father would embrace a son. But by the time of the post-match press conference, Bensen was back to being his reserved, cautioning self, making it clear the Bunnies’ job is far from done.

“The biggest mistake would be to assume we’re through to the next round already,” he said. “Winning against those Funny Looking Islands may seem easy on paper, but we still have to pull it off.”

“There will be no repeat of last year,” he added, referring to the excessive partying after the Krytenia win which may or may not have been the deciding factor in the subsequent loss against East Lithuania. “We’ll have a few drinks tonight, have some women over, but when I decide it’s been enough, it’ll be lights out, no argument.”

U21 Raging Reds

Manager: Brandt Kromm
The 41 year old manager has a lot on his mind as Kassyyk has chosen him to guide their young men into their first international scene. The former international standout from the West Pacific region has been attributed to saying that his squad is not set on winning the cup this time around, but that they fully intend on making it out of the group stages. Anything less would be a disappointment to himself and the supporters at home.

Asst M: Gerry Stibbs
Forward Coach: Rico Sacramend
Midfeild Coach: Josiah Caroselli
Defense Coach: Brent Barayuga
Keeper Coach: Brian Rusk

Keepers:
1. Boyce Anoe* (20) Backup net minder for the Hollyoak club team. Has seen limited play this season, but was very impressive last year when the starting keeper was out for half the season with an injured knee.
12. Alonso Baradi (18) Plays extensively on the under 21 side for Mogrynne. The Monarch keeper has led his to the top of the U21 table with an impressive .98 GAA
23. Lino Ohaver (14) This young boy was caught hanging around when tryouts were held near his family’s farm. He was invited in a showed an incredible amount of potential. Goalkeeper coach Brian Rusk used his personal pick to bring Lino onto the team for this great event.

Defenders:
2. Rhett Parkos* DR (19) Young right back from Oxwich City. The Bulls were more than a little unsettled at the thought of losing their young star in the midst of their fight for the KPL title.
5. Linwood Gicker* DC (20) The most experienced of the Raging Reds defensemen Gicker has played at Aronica United for the past three seasons. He has been selected as the captain for at least the first game of the Cup as the anchor of the team at center back.
3. Rhett Ihnen DC (21) Ihnen had fully expected to make the starting eleven opposite Linwood Gicker, but a surprisingly strong showing by Eldridge Diachenko knocked him into the reserves.
4. Erasmo Ero* D CL (21) The eldest player on the Kassyyk side Ero will celebrate his twenty second birthday just weeks after the end of the World Cup. Ero is an accomplished center back from the Port Muldin club and will split time alongside rival club member Linwood Gicker and playing out on the left side of the Raging Red defense.
13. Fausto Kody DR (17) Kody did just enough to earn himself a spot on the squad. He seems less concerned with getting playing time in this tournament and more excited about having the opportunity to train with Ero, Ihnen, and Gicker.
15. Eldridge Diachenko* D CL (19) Not expected to even sit on the bench for more than the off game, Diachenko surprised everyone with an excellent week at tryouts knocking favorite Rhett Ihnen off the starting eleven. His rights are owned by Wookies, but he rarely sees action outside of the U21 squad.
18. Chris Gresko DL (19) Gresko aka "The Gecko" is a young man with plenty of potential. He is the only true left back and the only left footed defensemen on the squad for this year’s Cup.

Midfielders:
6. Tuan Frings* DM RLC (18) Defensive mid from the Olivenca squad. He is a bench sub from his club team, but will be the starting D-mid for the national team. His play is not questionable, but his stamina is as Frings has never had to play the full ninety before. He certainly will have to be stellar if the Reds hope to move forward.
9. Arnoldo Corde* AMR(21) Corde makes up a third of the strongest portion of the Kassyyk squad, the attacking midfielders. He has the innate ability to play strong on both ends of the pitch. He is the team leader in assists for his club team, Pebo Grath.
99. Harland Brodhag* AM/F RLC(20) The second part of the three pronged AM attack for the Raging Reds from Aronica City. If Gicker is injured or suspended Brodhag would likely be the replacement as the captain. Brodhag is also on the Kassyyk National squad, which did not attempt to qualify for the World Cup.
8. Keneth Colato* AM LC(21) Colato is the third part of the fabled Reds attacking midfielders. This will be his final international competition at the U21 level. His career continues to soar on the club level at Oxwich City where he is the leading scorer. He has a tendency to struggle on the international level however as he has not garnered a goal or assist in the friendlies leading up to the World Cup.
14. Hai Gones MC (15) Gones is not expected to see much playing time as long as Kromm stays with either his preferred 4-1-3-2 formation or a standard 4-4-2. The young midfielder will be attempting to learn from Brodhag and Colato and may get some substitution minutes as the games roll on.
16. Titus Hukle M RL (16) Another young mid who is expected to start in the next go around of the U21 World Cup and will be looking to the Big 3 for some advice. Hukle is currently unsigned by any KPL team and a few good showings as a sub could land him a nice deal at a lower club like Agsburg or Nordrake.
7. Stanton Kebe DMC (18) Kebe could be the breakout star of the year for the Raging Reds, but will start the tournament on the bench as one of the five subs. His work at defensive midfielder for the Londar Athletic club team helped them win both derbies against Londar this season. He is sure to see a good amount of time in the event that Frings struggles with playing a full ninety minutes.

Forwards:[b]
[b]10. Shad Cassingi* (16) The young starlet who has doubled attendances to Barfluer’s matches both at home and away secured himself a starting role at tryouts. At only 16 he is being touted in the media as the future of Kassyykian football. A good showing here would likely help that reputation as well as bring in some much needed foreign viewers to the sport.
11. Malcom Klaja* (19) Klaja is the stronger of the two starting strikers for the Reds. He scored in each of the five friendlies against fellow West Pacific national teams before the tournament. Klaja has settled into his role, even at the young age of nineteen. He can be seen splitting time between the Coydona U21 and Reserves squads.
23. Jacinto Moncieffe (20) Expected to find himself in the starting eleven, but problems finishing showed both at tryouts and during the friendlies effectively knocking him onto the bench. Not to be deterred though, Moncieffe has worked even harder in the weeks leading up to the start of the Cup to try and earn his spot back.
17. Virgilio Ardaly (21) This could possibly be Ardaly’s last run at competitive football. The 21 year old striker has shown enough glimpses of promise to make the side, but is unsigned and unapproached by any of the twenty KPL club teams. Ardaly will likely be the last of the five strikers to see action as Kromm will likely allow Alejandrez to get some experience before looking down the bench to Virgilio Ardaly.
30. Buck Alejandrez (14) The youngest member of this squad Buck has a large battle ahead of him if he wishes to play first team football this time around. Do not look for too much from the boy from Aronica in this tournament, though the whole staff feels that he will develop into a very special player in a year or two.

I Give My Opponents Permission To:

Choose Scorers: Y
GodMod Goalscoring Events: Y

Injure Players: Y
GodMod Injury Events Y

Red Card Players: Y
Yellow Card Players: Y
GodMod Other Events: Y

Group E promises to be a good one for HC

Group E
Hockey Canada (5)
Krytenia
Kassyyk
Druida (21)

Group E, with Hockey Canada leading the way promises to be an entertaining one, with both unranked Krytenia and Kassyyk going for their first time in the U21WC. Druida has seen better days as they sit in 21st as of now, but with 2 unranked teams they have a good shot to raise that position.

Druida: It is true, they have seen much better days. Druida will try to regain their form for the next U21WC but just may advance through to the next round. They know how to play the game right, something 2 teams in this group are finding out. They'll provide a good battle for the unranked teams.

Krytenia: Unknown to the Canucks in the U21 game, Krytenia will hope for the best in this U21WC. Hockey Canadian players won't underestimate any teams in this tournement, especially the unranked ones. We know that because of the U21WC14 where we were unranked and advanced. Krytenia will prove a big threat and could qualify for the round-of-16. But with 2 unranked and a 21st ranked, it's very hard to tell. Expect a few return wins from Krytenia.

Kassyyk: Ok, just let us quote the obvious that other teams have used for unranked teams: "WHO?". Exactly. Them, like Krytenia are complete newcomers to the U21WC and will provide threats to all teams in the group. Hockey Canada thinks they can beat them and possibly Druida. Very hard to predict this group who's qualifying so it just may come down to goal differential.

So with Matchday 1 quickly approaching and the Canucks warming up, we bid thee farewell.

The Bureaucratic Tribune

Junior Ostriches manage fortunate group draw

Megalopolis City (BT) -- Drawn into group G, Oglethorpia finds itself against 8th ranked Rejistania, 20th ranked Kzuu Mai, and equally unranked Liverpool England.

"Lucky to note that Rejistania is the lowest of the eight high seeded teams in each group," observed Joe Staplin. "That doesn't mean we aren't going to lose by baffling, never-before-seen margins though."

Team captain Charles Albert-Herbson Cabbages noted the Junior Ostriches had the best odds against Liverpool England, a team with an illustrious history with Oglethorpia's World Cup team in the past.

"We can beat them," said Cabbages. "Bet on that game, i'm telling you TELLING you."

Added wide-minded Lionel Linear, "it's the only way to go. There's only one, straight, way. You must do it. It compels you!"

With group draws released, the tide of predictions has also fallen. Personally, Joe Staplin has projected a 0-2-1 record for the Junior Ostriches.

"Loss Rejistania, draw Liverpool, draw Kazoo Mai. The last one because their kazoo symphony is likely quite distracting. 0-2-1 isn't a bad opening, though," finished Staplin.

Oglethorpia waits to attempt to prove everyone wrong with three losses.

The Nedalia Lions


The 6th seeded Lions have been drawn into Group D against all double-digit ranked opponents, of which is Nedalia’s northern neighbor, Bedistan. Whether this amounts into 3 easy victories for what is fast becoming one of the best teams in the U21 circuit is yet to be seen, but the pressure will be on the Lions to deliver results. Having taken a step backward in the U21 WC 15 (losing on penalties to finalist Starblaydia) after making their way to the finals in U21 WC 14, the Lions are looking, as manager Brent Vent says, to make it past the quarter-finals and to that elite final four. However, their journey will begin against Bedistan, Oaker, and East Lithuania.

The only team the Lions have faced from those three teams is, ofcourse, the Bedistan Cubs, having defeated them in Group B of WC 15, 4 – 2. More of the same is expected from these two teams as they put aside importance to defense and proceed to attempt to score as many goals as they can. The Bedistanis will be no push over, and a hard match is expected. As for Oaker and East Lithuania, this will be the first time the Lions face them, and judging by their ranks, it should be Nedalia which comes away with the victory. Nothing, however, is written in stone, and it will take a good effort from the team to come away with the results they desire.

As for the Nedalia Lions, the team remains largely unchanged since the last World Cup, with only a few new faces, none of which are expected to play a major part. The starting 11 remain the same, and will be led by Mohammed Khadra as their captain. The team can certainly not blame any failures on experience, as most of the starting 11 have now featured in 2 previous U21 World Cups. Lumiere, Dennis Howard, and Constantine, along with Khalil Jamhurra, are expected to lead this team offensively. Defensively, the Lions are as solid as a rock at the back, having 4 players that all shone in the previous WC, most even in the WC before that. This is the most experienced, and possibly most talented team that Nedalia has presented in its brief U21 escapades. While not the favorites to win it all, they must be up there as one of the favorites to atleast make the semi-finals. Lets hope that feeling is correct.

Junior Stars like their draw

For two countries that have a longstanding alliance, the Sarzonian Under 21 national team has yet to meet Pacitalia's Under 21s in World Cup competition. With the exception of football unknowns An archy and Harbinzia, the Junior Stars and Pacitalia are expected to go through to the next stages.

"This should be a good group for both sides," Coach Valentin Kienzl said. "We think the highlight of this stage will be the match against Pacitalia."

However, the team said it's focused on one goal, advancing to the finals for the first time since the heady World Cup VI days when they lost the final match. Sarzonia has advanced to the semifinals stages only to lose one game away from the team's ultimate goal.

"We've got to make sure we just do the job each time out," midfielder Jarret Sanderson said. "We can't afford to look too far ahead or it will come back to bite us."

Sanderson and midfielder Jenna Raven have been named the co-captains in this run under Kienzl, who backed off his attacking offencive scheme of the previous World Cup with the loss of two starters, including Ettore Saliveri, due to age.

"We're going to have to concentrate a lot more on the defencive side of the pitch," Kienzl said. "We gave up too many goals last time out."

Pacitalia down on its luck: 16th place and odds against

The Pacitalian U21 boys return to the world soccer stage out to make a surprise run; although sitting in sixteenth seed doesn't help their chances. The players of the team don't seem as confident as they have in past tournaments, but hopefully they can look past that and move as far into the playoffs as they can. The team, although in sixteenth, is still the second best team in the group. The roster remains the same, of course, from WC15, as it hasn't been long enough for any of the players to go over the age limit.

Roster

Coach: Marapazzo Santo Castorini
Assistant Coaches: Lindifeu Zeitrescu, Arturo Pazzatto

FORMATION
G
D D D
S
M M M M
F F

Goalkeeper (x 1, G)
Defenders (x 3, LD/CD/RD)
Sweeper (x 1, S)
Midfielders (x 4, LOM/LIM/RIM/ROM)
Forwards (x 2, LF/RF)

ROSTER (starters in BOLD)

GOALKEEPERS:
#1 Romano Cristiano Santi, Age: 20, Sex: M, Height: 6'2", Weight: 181
#34 Martano Pauleristo, Age: 19, Sex: M, Height: 6'1", Weight: 185
#19 Vicenze Vittorio, Age: 20, Sex: M, Height: 5'9", Weight: 179

DEFENDERS:
#5 Aldo Innocenzo, Age: 20, Sex: M, Height: 5'11", Weight: 180
#10 Primo Giacinto, Age: 19, Sex: M, Height: 5'11", Weight: 171
#9 Geronimo Leandro, Age: 18, Sex: M, Height: 5'9", Weight: 178
#6 Timotaio Ellasteas, Age: 20, Sex: M, Height: 6', Weight: 181
#12 Iancu Valeriu, Age: 17, Sex: M, Height: 5'11", Weight: 170

SWEEPERS:
#2 Nicusor Petru Vasilica, Age: 19, Sex: M, Height: 6'3", Weight: 187
#3 Herberto Ovidio, Age: 20, Sex: M, Height: 5'10", Weight: 179

MIDFIELDERS:
#4 Vespasiano Sebastiano, Age: 20, Sex: M, Height: 6'2", Weight: 180
#7 Bertrando Massimatto, Age: 19, Sex: M, Height: 5'11", Weight: 179
#14 Eusebio Pancrazio, Age: 17, Sex: M, Height: 6', Weight: 176
#11 Eligio Wilfredo, Age: 21, Sex: M, Height: 6'3", Weight: 181
#15 Dario Pasquale, Age: 18, Sex: M, Height: 5'10", Weight: 175
#8 Stelios Aniketos, Age: 21, Sex: M, Height: 6'1", Weight: 172

FORWARDS:
#16 Andreos Charisteas, Age: 20, Sex: M, Height: 5'11", Weight: 181
#22 Massimo da Scupeta, Age: 20, Sex: M, Height: 5'10", Weight: 179
#25 Salazaro Bastacano, Age: 18, Sex: M, Height: 5'9", Weight: 168

Sarzonia-Pacitalia: Doomsday Cometh

Pacitalia and Sarzonia, allies seemingly since the dawn of time and friends just the same, are now about to face each other for the first time in Under-21 competition. The two nations' under-21 sides have been put into the same group for the first time in tournament history. Not exactly doomsday cometh as the title suggests, but an historic time in sport between the two nations.

All bets point to the match between the two to be the decider as to who wins the Group, or most likely whether Pacitalia advances past Group stage or not. Pacitalia is seeded, but is a low seed, and the two non-seeded sides may prove to be a heady challenge not only for Pacitalia, but even for the hardened veterans of the Sarzonian side.

Notable in this upcoming match is Ettore Salivani. This young, talented defender emigrated to Sarzonia from Pacitalia in late 2004. He had been a member of the U21 Sarzonian side for numerous cups and has just in time moved up to the World Cup stage due to his age. Had he not been too old, it would have proved a thriller as Salivani faced his old nation in an international football event.

"I agree with the comments of my Sarzonian counterpart, Signore Kienzl," Coach Santo Castorini said in an interview yesterday. "He is new to the U21 stage, and we will miss seeing Signore Trottier's face around the stadiums of the cup, but Kienzl is a true force behind the football movement and I agree with him, as I said, when he states that this game, regardless of the outcome will prove to strengthen the bond between our two nations. I look forward to it, not worried about it as much as I am with the other two sides. This group could not have turned out better, and it may play to our advantage. I know what two teams I want to advance, and here's a hint - they're seeded."

We'll just have to see, coach. We'll just have to see.

For PSN, I'm Michelo Obranto.

Kromm Looks Forward to Tough Tests

Panda Pitch at KBWA Stadium -

Kassyk's international football manager Brandt Kromm spoke to the media today for the first time since the draw for the group stages. The Under 21 Raging Reds have been placed into what has been called both the easiest and the most unpredictable group of the competition, Group E. Kromm announced that he felt his players had the talent to move on to the knock out round, but it would not be an easy task. Also in Group E are 5th seeded Hockey Canada who are the favorite to move on, 21st seeded Druida, and fellow unseeded nation Krytenia.

While many supporters have criticized Kromm's choice of starters for the first game, the veteran manager responded by saying "I'm not looking for the best players, I'm looking for the right ones." Only time will tell if those eleven young men are right enough to move forward in Kassyk's first international competition.

East Lithuania Back With New Recruits

Albright takes the ball down, passed to Grabow, one-timer, GOAL!

Rojas runs it down the middle, shoots it high, SCORES TO WIN IT!

Here he comes, shoots it hard, SAVED BY WEAVER!

Ahh yes, we all remember last years East Lithuania Sharks scoring run to place second in Group A behind the defending champions Starblaydia, which on a side note was brought to a tie against East Lithuania, a tie that left East Lithuania the knowledge of the strengh of the upcoming games. It was exciting. And now, finally, Couch Discolo is back as U21WCXVI is here. Also, as always, the roster will see some changes. First off, this will be the first year East Lithuania ever had a female player on the team. 17 year old Nina Rangel will be able to see what others see when they enter in a tournament like this. Here is the roster list, bold people are starters.

Couch:Ray Discolo

Assistant Couch:Kevin Rooney


Forwards:
Alex Burke- 18 years old- #5

James Rojas- 20 years old- #40

Brian Sheils- 20 years old- #4

Robert Milkey- 16 years old- #64

Midfielders:
Alex Miller- 19 years old- #20

Eric Villhaur- 19 years old- #10

Alan Dingler- 18 years old- #69

Alex Dickey- 19 years old- #42

Michael Santoro- 17 years old- #77

Defence:
Micheal Mongoij- 18 years old- #44

Mark Sell- 20 years old- #5

Justin Pearson- 20 years old- #10

Nina Rangel- 17 years old- #33

Goalkeepers:
Dillion Wagner- 20 years old- #25

William Brozowski- 17 years old- #11

http://bellsouthpwp.net/h/a/harleyt_1387/bsd_banner.png
football

It's U21 time again

TOTAL N UTTER INSANITY -- It's the sixteenth running of the Under-21 World Cup in Total n Utter Insanity, and once again Bedistan's Cubs are taking part. Three of our players from last time have seen their twenty-second birthday, so they are not returning for this tournament. However, team manager Jackson Reinhardt has promised that the new talent coming in will "blow everyone away".

The team sheet is as follows:

GK - Sherman "Sher" Locke-Holmes, age 15
D - Bobby Underwood, age 17
D - Sanmo Arístiko, age 19
D - Opal Browne, age 19
M - Greg Moon, age 18
M - Sandra Kipp, age 17
M - Bonnie Capp, age 17
M - Zack Vincent, age 18
F - Tommy Bob Valentín, age 16
F - Todd Wipp, age 19
F - Logan Anderson, age 18

Of note is that Greg Moon has shifted forward from wingback to winger. There was a noted improvement in his play after he made the same switch whilst playing for BFL Second Division side Paradise Town. Also, the two youngest players on the team may well be the ones to watch out for. It is rumored that Tommy Bob Valentín may be in line to replace Alejandro Vantrease on the national squad after he retires (probably after WC24), and Sher Locke-Holmes is expected to make the substitutes' bench for Bedistan's World Cup 23 squad with Nick Reagan retiring and Tom Pratt becoming the new starter, though this has not been finalized (for one thing, Reagan has not officially announced retirement yet).

Will the Cubs see success in U21WC16? Almost certainly not, but we can dream.

Kodikits u21 News

Kodikits get last group, and probably seeded over again

Random draws have never been that fair to the Kodikits in the past, even with two previous advancements to the Round of 16. But one thing was certain this time.

No match with Rejistania.

Instead, the 7th-Ranked Kodikits will be looking to improve on their 8th place finish against another #10 and a #14 some of the players may know fondly.

Group H
07 Chicanada
10 Crystilakere
14 Gaian Ascendancy
nr Paul Sculthorpe fans

While it will be the first time the Kodikits will have faced any of the teams, two players from the new u21 squad have some experience thanks to Douala's recent semifinal finish in the Champions League against the CL runners up from #14 Gaian Ascendancy's Jurahelm (or some such, the research for us is a tad foggy). This could make the starters a tad rambunchious for that match, which could be a thriller.

Chicanadan betting parlors have some hopes in a Kodikit victory, as the team is the fifth favorite to win the whole tournament even though they are expected to finish second to the squad from #10 Crystilakere in Group play. Mind you, the squad would prefer a third straight Group Stage victory but a semifinal finish is more desired.

Fmjphoenix Junior Vikings

Head Coach: George Rush
Assistant Coach: Zyri Slova

Goalkeepers:
#6 Franklin Cabrillo* - 19 yrs old
#11 Harlem Selam - - 17 yrs old

Defenders:
#18 Jay Perry* - 15 yrs old
#3 Jesus Ramirez - 19 yrs old
#14 Miguel Martinez* - 20 yrs old
#12 Charlie Hulo* - 20 yrs old
#15 Larry Lamar - 19 yrs old

Midfielders:
#2 Juan Espinoza* - 19 yrs old
#7 Trowa Notrab* - 21 yrs old
#10 Batri Conixta - 15 yrs old
#13 Brady Wayne* - 19 yrs old
#9 Van House - 17 yrs old
#4 Brian Berry - 16 yrs old

Forwards:
#1 Arien Vogel* - 18 yrs old
#5 Bruce Chen* - 20 yrs old
#16 Jarod Howell - 19 yrs old
#8 Brigan Dougood* - 15 yrs old
#17 Virgil Dante* - 17 yrs old

with both unranked Krytenia and Kassyyk going for their first time in the U21WC.

Kry has played in U21WC3-6, 8-9, 11-13, 15-16.

Something tells me this formula isn't the same one I've been using, seems a little more random. Could just be freak results, things need a little shaking up.

Day 1
Group A
Starblaydia 3 Hypocria 2
Kylaai 4 South Osettia 3
Group B
Jeruselem 0 Funny Looking Islands 0
Spruitland 1 Vilita 0
Group C
Sarzonia 2 Pacitalia 3
An archy 4 Harbinzia 3
Group D
Nedalia 4 Oaker 1
Bedistan 2 East Lithuania 2
Group A
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Kylaai 1 1 0 0 4 3 1 3
Starblaydia 1 1 0 0 3 2 1 3
South Osettia 1 0 0 1 3 4 -1 0
Hypocria 1 0 0 1 2 3 -1 0
Group B
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Spruitland 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 3
Jeruselem 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
Funny Looking Islands 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
Vilita 1 0 0 1 0 1 -1 0
Group C
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
An archy 1 1 0 0 4 3 1 3
Pacitalia 1 1 0 0 3 2 1 3
Harbinzia 1 0 0 1 3 4 -1 0
Sarzonia 1 0 0 1 2 3 -1 0
Group D
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Nedalia 1 1 0 0 4 1 3 3
Bedistan 1 0 1 0 2 2 0 1
East Lithuania 1 0 1 0 2 2 0 1
Oaker 1 0 0 1 1 4 -3 0

Junior Vikings prepare for title defense with #1 ranking

With almost the exact same squad that won the 15th installment of the Under 21 World Cup Championship, The Junior Vikings from Fmjphoenix prepare for their title defense with their joint #1 ranking with Starblaydia. This will be the last year the same team will be all together, as many of the players are going to be too old and will start looking ahead in their careers. But keeping to U21WC16, Fmjphoenix has draw into Group F. Everyone in Fmjphoenix is looking at F for Fun, which is exactly what this could be. Here is how it breaks down from the Fmjphoenix Statistical Institute.

Fmjphoenix (1): Our best position ever in rankings. Must keep high level of play to retain.

Vtorbetin: New entries into the cup, but have are looking to make a splash into. Should be fun to see how they develop.

Cockbill Street (15): Have not played the U21 squad of Cockbill Street, but the senior squad got its first taste in WCXXI when they beat the Vikings 2-0. Revenge factor to come into play.

Fimble loving peoples (19): Never played them in their full history. Never been a high team, but just because its not a top team does not mean upsets do not happen. Play to prevent mistakes.

While it should not be the hardest matches the Junior Vikings will play, they will still be taken seriously. Expect the high scoring of the Junior Vikings to continue.

The Purple Peril

Hypocria 2 – 3 Starblaydia
Karic 25
West 37


In an opening match reminiscent of two years ago Hypocria again narrowly lost to one of the best sides in the tournament. Last time it was Sarzonia, this time it was Starblaydia that broke fan’s hearts.

The match started off badly for the Hyppo’s faithful as the ball was played forward to Lopez in the penalty area, both Black and Kreska backed off giving the Starblaydi starlet the opportunity he wanted and he lashed a thunderous left footed drive into the roof of the net.

It was just the catalyst the Hypocria needed and they started playing the ball around with real confidence, Baxter in particular looking in control in the centre. It was the Hypocrian captain who started the move that lead to the equaliser as he drilled the ball down the right for Golla, on the overlap, to run on to. The number 2 swung in a pin point cross on to the head of debutant Karic and the striker placed a perfect header down and into the bottom corner.

The much vaunted Starblaydis were clearly rattled and it was Hypocria who took the lead. It was Baxter again pulling the strings as he threaded a ball through for Burdali. The midfielder turned a defender on the edge of the box before firing a shot in. Keeper Mathias managed to claw the ball away but it fell straight to Danny West who side footed into the gaping net.

With half time approaching a 2-1 lead with have been a huge psychological boost but it wasn’t to be as Starblaydi captain Macia beat Poskas down the Hypocrian left before getting to the touchline and pulling the ball back to strike partner Diaz-Arca who, arriving unmarked at the near post, couldn’t miss.

Starblaydia came out for the second half a different team. Inspired by their diminutive coach introducing three attacking substitutes, the number 1 seeds launched wave after wave of attacks at the Hypocrian goal. But keeper Derevko kept them at bay until eight minutes from fulltime. Raul Diaz-Arca played a beautifully weighted ball, which Brazier couldn’t cut out, to release substitute Menecrates, one on one with Derevko. The youngster showed a wonderful piece of skill to flick the ball past the despairing keeper before shooting into the empty net. A goal good enough to win any match.

After the game assistant coach Matthias DiMarco faced the media.

“They may be arrogant b*****ds but those Starblaydis sure know how to attack. The comments in the Starblaydi media really motivated the lads and we matched them in the first half but they pulled away in the second and showed their real quality. We weren’t expecting to get much from this fixture so it is good to get it out the way first. Despite this result we feel we have the quality to beat both South Osettia and Kylaai and are confident of getting into the knockout stages.”


Team

Derevko

Brazier Kreska Black

Golla Poskas

Baxter Burdali Sinclair


West Karic

Subs

Blanco (for Karic, 65)
Bryant (for Black, 76)
Loskov (for Sinclair, 82)


The other match in the group was something of an upset as unranked Kylaai edged out South Osettia in a seven goal thriller.

Day 1
Group A
Starblaydia 3 Hypocria 2
Kylaai 4 South Osettia 3

The Group A table does not make good reading for Hyppos fans with Hypocria propping up the rest at this early stage. Unranked Kylaai sit on top and now their threat will not be taken lightly.

Group A
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Kylaai 1 1 0 0 4 3 1 3
Starblaydia 1 1 0 0 3 2 1 3
South Osettia 1 0 0 1 3 4 -1 0
Hypocria 1 0 0 1 2 3 -1 0

Scoreless, absolutely scoreless

The Young Orange-Blues drew against the Oglethorpian Ostriches 0:0. The Young Orange-Blues showed a high amount of defensive skill. The Ostriches tried to attack using their All Out Attack formation 3-4-3, but were struggling against the 9 defenders (well, 6 defenders and 3 'midfielders') of the Orange-Blues. Striker Aehi Iuesta had three chances in this match but could not capitalize one of them. The best chance was in a counter-attack in the 36th minute, but his shot was parried by goalkeeper Tom T. Kein. Of course the rejistanians celebrated no goal conceded, but coach Kansu Lyku hopes to 'reach more points' next match.

Hockey Canada prepares yet again for Matchday 1

Group E
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Hockey Canada 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Krytenia 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Kassyyk 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Druida 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wow, just... just wow. Zeros in the Goals Against column prove that Hockey Canada has truly unbreakable defence. But zeros in the games played, wins and points cause a little trouble. Manager Keith Ono is not impressed with the performance given in the game which saw all zeros including games played, he has worked the team extra hard for their game which will hopefully see a 1 in the win department.

"Winning isn't everything." The quote that sent uproars of laughter in the Hockey Canada dressing room after practice yesterday. The team will play to make it through to the finals this year, hopefully walking away with the U21WC title. Any way the team will play is secretive, maybe the trap in one game or maybe a pressing defence in the next will keep fans and other teams guessing what strategy the Canucks will use.

GO CANUCKS GO!!!! HA HA HA HA!!!!! *Uzis shoot up in the air*

OOC: Proposing a U21WC Hall of Fame for teams to put their best players in their U21 history, as well as a World Cup Hall of Fame.

Jeruselem Government News

Funny looking scorelines in U21

Jeruselem's game against Funny Looking Islands in the U21C16 was today. We should have won, but it was a horrid scoreless draw. Jeruselem tried to get the three points against those Funny Looking Islanders but all to nought.

Vilita, the Jungle Kitties LOST their game. 11th seed Spruitland jumped to the No 1 spot in Group B beating the Kitties to sink them to last place. All over the groups, there were upsets with highly ranked teams LOSING. South Osettia and Sarzonia lost their games so Jeruselem's draw wasn't so bad in context.

It is time for the newcomers to upset the established U21 order? These are the results for Group A and D, but will the top seeds fight back in the other groups? We will have to wait.

Group B
Jeruselem 0 Funny Looking Islands 0
Spruitland 1 Vilita 0

U21WC Hall-of-Fame proposed among nations.

With the rapid growth of the U21WC, Hockey Canadian officials have proposed to build a Under 21 World Cup hall-of-fame in Total n Utter Insanity. The hall of fame will be presented as this model:

http://www.cooperstownchamber.org/~tunnicliff/Soccer%20Hall%20of%20Fame.jpg

The hall may be built in the city where the championchip game is usually played, but may be redesigned or replaced in later days.

OOC: Maybe nswiki?

"No, no, no." Said the guy in charge of football related things. "For one thing, the sky is a lot greyer and what is that green stuff in the background?."

Hockey Canadians believe it is either these:

-foliage
-nuclear waste
-used field grass
-garbage from the hall-of-fame

The Nedalia Lions

Lions ease by East Lithuania, Prepare for Bedistan

As expected, the Lions have gotten off to a magnificent start in Group D, starting the U21 WC 16 with a dominating 4-1 victory over Oaker. Manager Brent Vent declared that although Oaker did not have a known history in U21 football, he was not going to allow the Lions to come out and play a mediocre game.

“I told the team in the days before our first match that we could not afford a slow start. You only get 3 games to qualify to the 2nd round, and it only gets harder after that. Our group isn’t the toughest one out there, but that doesn’t mean we can sit on our behinds and think the results are going to roll in. Thankfully, the message got across, and we have started off the tournament in the best possible way. Constantine was absolutely magnificent, and its no secret he’s going to be one of our focal points if we are to accomplish our goals in this tournament.”

Magnificent could be argued as an understatement for the way Constantine performed, scoring a hattrick (the goals came in the 23rd, 37th, and 66th minutes), and assisted Lumiere in what was Nedalia’s final goal in the 79th minute. The last 10 minutes of the game were all Oaker’s, however, thanks to a triple substitution by Vent and a seemingly laidback, defensive approach that became prevalent. Oaker hit their consolation goal in extra-time, a reward for their attacking form presented by them in the final 10 minutes.

With the 4-1 victory, the Lions can now rest a little easier, but not too much. With East Lithuania and neighbors Bedistan still to play, the group will not get any easier for them. The match against Bedistan will be especially important, if only for the reason that it is a southern AO derby match. A lot is expected from this Nedalia team, and so far, they have shown a willingness to deliver of their promise of victory.

Junior Stars open with thud

Sarzonia's Under 21 national team expected the opening match against their longtime allies and friends from Pacitalia to be the hardest-fought match of the group stage. The team figured an up and coming programme would give a Junior Stars side still trying to find its offencive way a fight.

They were correct on those counts and more as Pacitalia's Under 21 side sprinted out to a three nil lead and held on to defeat the Junior Stars, 3-2, sending the Sarzonians into "urgency mode" after the loss.

"We didn't play bad," Coach Valentin Kienzl said. "Pacitalia have a great football team. We just were outclassed in the early going."

Kienzl tried everything at halftime to light a fire in his team and come away with at least one standings point. He benched starting goalkeeper Blaine Wilcox in favour of little used reserve Frank Handley to start the second half and he instructed midfielder Jarret Sanderson to play up front in a makeshift 3-4-3 formation. Kienzl said Wilcox will start the next match.

"We just were looking for a spark there," he said. "Blaine didn't do anything wrong."

The Junior Stars responded to the urgency by scoring a goal just six minutes into the second half to cut the lead to 3-1, courtesy of midfielder Jenna Raven's cross that found the head of a streaking Sanderson.

"That was a nice play, but we had too much of a mountain to climb," a distraught Raven said after the match. "I wish it came with the score 0-0."

Sarzonia continued to scratch and claw back into the match, getting a penalty kick 78 minutes in off the boot of Sanderson after Raven was pulled down in the area. Kienzl drew a warning from the officials after arguing for a red card against defender Primo Giacinto.

"He obviously thought he could bully a girl," a furious Kienzl said after the match. However, Incorporated Football Federation chairman Terry Mangione disagreed.

"It was just a hard-nosed, aggressive play by a player who was trying to preserve a lead," he said. Mangione said he spoke to Pacitalia Coach Santo Castorini after the match and said Giacinto apologised "profusely," for the hit, which forced Kienzl to take Raven out of the match.

"It took us out of much of what we wanted to do with the football," assistant coach Avid Mashoda said. "Much of our offence starts with Jenna. But that's no excuse. We've got to figure out how to play without her."

Raven is not expected to suit up for the remainder of the group stages, weakening an already thin team.

"We're going to have to have people playing who normally don't play," Kienzl said.

East Lithuania Starts Off With A Tie... And New Affair?



Last week, the East Lithuanian Sharks start off the tournament with a 2-2 tie with Bedistan. In an exiting match that saw Burke scoring at 45+, then Rojas slipping one by at 72 minutes. Although Wagner let 2 by and only getting East Lithuania the tie, he has definetly improved from last years quarter-finals, where Wagner was sent in after then starter goaly Weever was hit in the face, knocking him out of the game. What happend after Wagner entered was a horrible 4 straght goal streak to eliminate East Lithuania from U21WCXV. Now, Wagner let 2 by but the Sharks offense powered by to keep it at a tie.
Now for a very disturbing and weird update on the U21 roster. After the game, when everyone was dressed and ready to head out to the hotel, couch Discolo noticed defenders Mongoij and Rangel missing. When looking for them, midfielder Miller yelled that he had found them, but what the other team found was beyond belief. Couch Discolo said that he, "found them passionetly making out on the bench." Is there some love going on in the East Lithuania U21 soccer team? Tune in at channel 6 tonight at 10 to find out.

Crystilakere Crystils Under-21 16
HEAD COACH: To Be Determined
ASST. COACH: Liali Munavelli

GK Alcir Barbara*
D Francesco Schiavon*
D Salvatore Redaelli*
D Alpha Siboldi*
M Respito Laracca*
M Massimiliano Rosi*
M Giuseppe Zucco*
M Giovanni Quira*
F Reidulf Piao*
F Noel Adiguzel*
F Toader Pold*

SUBSTITUTES
D- Rene' Niljssen*, Abdelilah Escobar*
M- Kale Vellazi*
F- Michael Baker*


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Fan Report: Addis named Under 21 coach

The Crystilakere FA prepared for yet another under 21 world cup by naming long time Crystilakere goalkeeper and world cup 19 champion Emiliano Addis as their new under 21 head coach. The goalkeeper has limited coaching experience in the past but he is a huge favorite of the fans and will be working alongside Junior Crystils assistant Liali Munavelli who has been with the team for many cups.

Fan Quotes on Emiliano Addis

"This is the guy that put Crystilakere on the map. Before Addis the crystils were just one of those teams that won some games and then got beat up in the finals. With Addis in goal we became world champions. He did it before and he'll do it again."

"I don't know how good he will be coaching those kids but he sure was the best goalkeeper Crystilakere has ever seen. Wish he was still playing we probably would not have given up 3 goals to Rejistania."

Fan Quotes on Boubocar Dragov (former coach)

"Yea he had some good runs with us but you've seen him the guy is just dried up."

"Hes over coaching Hypocria right now. What a joke. They already lost their first game, good thing we got rid of that old bag and got a real Crystil calling the shots."

Pacitalia vs Sarzonia, and a win surprises but uplifts

What was expected to be a close match did ultimately turn out that way, but the first half of the match was anything but as the Pacitalian U21 side took an early, commanding three-zip lead and held on to win, 3-2, against their sports rivals, but above all, friends, from Sarzonia.

"We didn't play bad," Sarzonian Coach Valentin Kienzl said. "Pacitalia have a great football team. We just were outclassed in the early going."

The match started off early with reliable inside-left midfielder Bertrando Massimatto capitalising on a slight Sarzonian miscue, taking the ball 20 yards up the pitch and arch-kicking the ball another 10 yards ahead for a streaking Andreos Charisteas who feinted the ball past bewildered Sarzonian defenders Kenny Houlder and Candi Croshetti and tapped it below a diving Blaine Wilcox for a 1-0 lead.

The crowd of 53,285 was ecstatic with the ensuing back-and-forth excitement, which could have resulted in a 5-4 score at halftime with all the chances laid down by either side. However, both teams kept a cool head after the early Pacitalian score and the tally remained the same. Then, in the 34th minute, Charisteas and da Scupeta performed an outstanding give-and-go and the latter forward put a confounding eighty kilometre per hour shot past an exhausted Wilcox to go up by two goals.

Quiet settled on the Sarzonian supporters as the momentum further shifted to the Pacitalians in the 40th minute with a brilliant Massimatto corner and a Nicusor Petru Vasilica knee-shot into the back left corner of the net, to give the Pacitalians a 3-0 lead on a team that should have, by all counts, have been at least in a dead heat with the Pacitalians for the win at that point.

Halftime seemed to help the Junior Stars regroup, as they responded to the urgency of the enormous deficit by scoring a goal just six minutes into the second half. That cut the lead to 3-1, courtesy of midfielder Jenna Raven's cross that found the head of a streaking Jarret Sanderson.

"That was a nice play, but we had too much of a mountain to climb," a distraught Raven said after the match. "I wish it came with the score 0-0."

Sarzonia received a free goal in the 78th minute after defender Primo Giacinto pulled down Jenna Raven in the scoring area, injuring her. Kienzl drew a warning from the officials after arguing for a red card against Giacinto.

"He obviously thought he could bully a girl," a furious Kienzl said after the match. Sarzonia's Incorporated Football Federation chairman Terry Mangione disagreed.

"It was just a hard-nosed, aggressive play by a player who was trying to preserve a lead," he said. Pacitalian coach Marapazzo Santo Castorini talked to the IFF chairman post-game and said that in the showers, Giacinto had continuously stated he was "truly sorry" for the hit on Raven and hoped she was "going to recover from whatever injuries [he] caused her to have".

Bad news for Giacinto: Jenna Raven is not expected to suit up for the remainder of the group stages, meaning Sarzonia is without one of its top players for an important part of the U21 World Cup.

(With files from SNN Sports)

HC to Group E: We're waiting for you to show up.

The game scheduled today in Total n Utter Insanity featuring 5th seeded Hockey Canada was given a huge cheer as they emerged from their bench to play their Group E challenger. Much to the dismay of Hockey Canadian fans, there was no team at the stadium causing an uproar of already drunk fans. No players were hurt but one child was bruised while trying to purchase beer from a vendor.

Now that the Canucks have been reduced to wait for their next game. Maybe they'll arrive, but until then you can visit them for a drink and a laugh at the stadium's bar and grill.

Group E
Hockey Canada 1 Krytenia 0
Kassyyk 3 Druida 3
Group F
Fmjphoenix 5 Vtorbetin 2
Cockbill Street 7 Fimble loving peoples 5
Group G
Rejistania 0 Oglethorpia 0
Liverpool England 3 Kzuu Mai 2
Group H
Chicanada 3 Paul Sculthorpe fans 2
Crystilakere 1 Gaian Ascendancy 1
Group E
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Hockey Canada 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 3
Kassyyk 1 0 1 0 3 3 0 1
Druida 1 0 1 0 3 3 0 1
Krytenia 1 0 0 1 0 1 -1 0
Group F
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Fmjphoenix 1 1 0 0 5 2 3 3
Cockbill Street 1 1 0 0 7 5 2 3
Fimble loving peoples 1 0 0 1 5 7 -2 0
Vtorbetin 1 0 0 1 2 5 -3 0
Group G
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Liverpool England 1 1 0 0 3 2 1 3
Rejistania 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
Oglethorpia 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
Kzuu Mai 1 0 0 1 2 3 -1 0
Group H
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Chicanada 1 1 0 0 3 2 1 3
Crystilakere 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 1
Gaian Ascendancy 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 1
Paul Sculthorpe fans 1 0 0 1 2 3 -1 0

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Round 1 surprises worry Bunnies coach

With matchday 1 complete, Spruitland coach Cor Bensen has scheduled some extra training sessions to prepare the Bunnies for their second match in the Under-21 World Cup XVI. This decision was made after all the results of the other matches had come in, showing a few surprises and minor upsets.

“Like I said before,” Bensen explained, “this is football and anything can happen. If Pacitalia can beat Sarzonia and Kylaai can beat South Osettia, it’s clear that a rank advantage doesn’t give you any assurances. We need to be prepared.”

Another notable result was 8th seeds Rejistania’s scoreless draw against unranked Oglethorpia – though due to Rejistania’s defensive tradition, this isn’t all that surprising. And then there was Cockbill Street’s spectacular 7 – 5 victory over the Fimble Loving People. While this doesn’t exactly defy logic when comparing their ranks, a game in which 12 goals are scored isn’t exactly an every day occurance. Add to that the 7 goals scored in the Fmjphoenix – Vtorbetin game, and one wonders what the teams in group F had for breakfast.

The Bunnies’ own Group B is the other extreme, with Spruitland the only team being able to score a goal – and even that one was off a corner late in the game, when nobody expected it anymore. Third ranked and group favorites Jeruselem were unable to pull away from the unranked Funny Looking Islanders, and it is that which worries Cor Bensen the most.

“This puts the pressure on Jeruselem,” he said. “They’re the favorites, and they lost valuable points against what’s supposed to be the easy team in the group. I don’t like it. I would have preferred them to be ensured of a spot in the second round after match two, so they could relax in their match against Spruitland, perhaps give some of their subs a chance. Obviously, that’s not gonna happen now.”

It might not matter though, because if the Bunnies win against F.L.I., they’ll be the ones clinching a spot in the next round before the final group match. But Bensen files that under “easier said than done.”

“Those Funny Lookin’ dudes are like a bunch of Rejistania wannabees. They throw up a wall in their area and wait for one or two great chances to break out and counter attack. If the number three ranked team can’t get past them, it would be pretty arrogant of us to assume we will. That doesn’t mean we’re not gonna try, though.

Bensen went on to say that, although he doesn’t expect a high scoring game, if the ball is gonna hit the net at all, it will be past the F.L.I. goalie. Barring a major screw up in the defense, the Spruitland coach does not expect his team to concede and is doing everything to keep the Bunnies’ defensive line sharp.

“Extra training, massage therapy, team building sessions – we’re not taking any chances. If they score a goal due to an individual screw up from one of our guys, he can pack his bags and head on home.”

When asked who he considered favorites for winning the Cup, Bensen didn’t want to commit to naming just one team.

“Of last World Cup’s finalists, Fmjphoenix looks strong again. Stronger than Starblaydia, who had to dig deep in their first match. But it’s too early to say, really. For some of the big teams, the competition doesn’t really start until the Second Round. Though it’s obvious the little teams are not willing to go quietly into the night. So we could see a few more surprises.”

“Let’s hope so, actually,” Bensen concluded with a smile. “Because Spruitland is still a pretty small team as well, if you get right down to it. And we wouldn’t mind pulling off a surprise or two.”


Group B
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Spruitland 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 3
Jeruselem 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
Funny Looking Islands 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
Vilita 1 0 0 1 0 1 -1 0

Junior Vikings start of fast with win over Vtorbetin

They were well rested and ready to play. They wanted to show people that they deserve their #1 ranking. The newest player to the Junior Vikings wanted to prove that he belonged on a championship team. Both things happened as Virgil Dante scored 2 goals in his first start as a Junior Vikings powered over Vtorbetin 5-2.

The goals came fast, with Fmjphoenix scoring its first two within the first 10 minutes. Bruce Chen scored first with a quick header in the 3rd minute. Barely 7 minutes later before Vtorbetin could take a shot, Travis Baumann was stripped of the ball by Jay Perry before he could take an open shot on Franklin Cabrillo. Perry passed to Brady Wayne, who crossed to Dante who took an open shot in the box for his first goal and an early 2-0 lead. But Vtorbetin did get a counter-attack with its first goal in Under 21 history with a header from Randy Ingalls at the 15th minute. Things quieted down after that with neither squad getting a good shot off. With over a twenty minute shooting drought, it was Vtorbetin's Carlos Aitkin who put a shot in the 42nd minute to put the match even at 2 each. That was the end of the first half, but the Junior Vikings were far from done.

When the teams returned for the second half, Fmjphoenix was on fire. Lead forth by Arien Vogel, Fmjphoenix scored their third goal of the match at the 49th minute. But they were not done there. After a good run by Vtorbetin that ended in a save by Cabrillo, Dante was back again with his second strike of the match and put the Junior Vikings ahead comfortably 4-2 at the 61st minute. Juan Espinoza also scored a late strike with only 5 minutes left in the match.

Fmjphoenix: 5 - Vtorbetin: 2
(Chen 3, Dante 10, 61, Vogel 49, Espinoza 85[ - Ingalls 15, Atkin 42

Kodikits u21 News

Kodikits eckes out win, Ranked teams remain

It may not be what Hassan Lovitzon wanted, but he'll take it in his opening game of the u21 Campaign.

The head coach for Territories Union College, the top footy collegiate squade, led his troops into a match with the unknown Paul Sculthorpe fans and escaped with a 3-2 that lets the Kodikits lead Group H after one match.

The Kodikits were led by new Goalkeep Raslan Seregn, who allowed only 2 goals from 14 shots. Newcommers Prade Gjno and Hosaiah Quonesh each picked up a goal, with Quonesh scored two of his own.

Kodikits Lineup for Matchday 2

01 F Hosaiah Quonesh [19 - Territories Union College]
02 F Iago Jezbil [19 - Risa FC]
03 F Quenton Florence [20 - Barclay Rosa]
04 F Mendozi Liamson [18 - Acadia Heights Prep]
05 M Prade Gjno [18 - Bishop East]
06 M David Slovenson [19 - Cavalier]
07 D Karison Lovitzon [19 - Territories Union College]
08 D Usa Vilajen [20 - Barclay Rosa]
09 D Hazj L'ozmakh [18 - Kingdom AC]
10 D Tobias Xavierden [19 - Wosho Gold]
11 G Raslan Seregn [20 - AS Seaport]

Starblaydia Go Marching On
Glory, glory, what a Helluva way to play

Giovanni Lopez led Starblaydia to a second win in the Championship as they defeated South Osettia by Three goals to One.

Playing one's neighbours always adds a certain spice to any sporting occasion and this was no different. As the keen-eyed cartographers will know, South Osettia is a small-ish Island to the north of Starblaydia in their first Under-21 meeting in twelve years.

Not since some of the greats like Darius Belizaire, Syku Lyku-Agbayani, Thanh Madray, Martin Watt and Thaddeus Gonzalez (didn't we always tell you that a good Under-21 squad will make their impact in a World Cup or two's time?) have Starblaydia played South Osettia, and even then it was a three-nil victory for the boys in white-and-purple.

This time Christian Macia opened the scoring with a penalty, a Giovanni Lopez near-post snap-shot beat the keeper for the second while Mercutio's first goal for the Under-21s sealed the victory with around half an hour to go. Next up for Starblaydia are Kylaai, famous for winning the Cup of Harmony twice but little else. A 'clean sweep', as some say, should be on the cards for Starblaydia as they try to advance to the Second Round.

Vtorbetites Please On First Foray

When news filtered through that the Vtorbetites first ever international football game was to be against current Under 21 Champions Fmjphoenix, there were notably mixed reactions throughout the country. Whilst some commented on how this was the beginning of a steep learning curve for the players, others jumped off nearby cliffs, almost doubling the suicidal fatality rate, and keeping the ambulance services busy all through the night. It was safe to say that few expected a win, or indeed a draw, from this game.

The game started as was expected, and how it was to continue, with Fmjphoenix taking advantage of some lacklustre defending on three minutes to force an early corner. Chen's header at the far post proved unstoppable, and the gap in experience was clear for all to see.

The Vtorbetites found it difficult to get into the match. More used to playing against elderly and disabled teams in the amateur leagues, the class of the Junior Vikings was that of a different league altogether, and so it was that the team couldn't string together enough passes to create a shot on goal at all in the first ten minutes of play. Similarly, Fmjphoenix couldn't stop creating, and doubled their lead when a mistake by striker Travis Baumann saw goalkeeper Shrader up against three players. In the end it was a simple tap in for Dante, as Shrader dived too early at the feet of Brady Wayne.

And so, with the score at 2-0 and with no obvious way back into the match, many Vtorbetin fans would have been forgiven for switching channel to the country's most popular reality television show, 'Stuck In A Box With Twenty Terrapins For A Wholly Unprecedented Amount Of Time In A Bid To Win One Million Coluga'. However, if they'd done so, they would have missed Vtorbetin's moment of triumph, as on fifteen minutes a counter attack up the wing saw Randy Ingalls head in a Jacob Balderas cross from the half way line in a simply stunning and non-Vtorbetite manner. His celebration said it all - Vtorbetin's first ever international goal, and a moment for all to be proud of. Hopefully it will become the first of many.

After Ingalls' goal, the game settled down, turning into a midfield scramble as both teams lost their composure. It was clear that the next goal would be decided by who regained it first. Luckily it was the Vtorbetites, with Carlos Aitken surprising the Vikings' keeper with a half volley from outside the box. Cabrillo got a hand to the ball, but only served to turn it onto the underside of the crossbar, where it rebounded into the net. There was jubilation throughout the land, as Vtorbetin seemed to have come back from the dead to level the match against the joint-world number ones.

Unfortunately the joy was short-lived, as the Junior Vikings came out in the second half rejuvenated. Their attacking style of play simply outclassed the tired Vtorbetites, and they scored three more goals without reply. Perhaps the scoreline didn't reflect just how well the debutants had done, but coach Joshua Wilhite had nothing but praise for his defeated team.

"There's absolutely no shame in losing to the joint-best U21 team in the world. There's a lot of teams here that would have done exactly the same, and probably wouldn't have fought back as well as we did. I think the way that we turned the game in our favour in the first half was something that dreams are made of. We looked like a real professional side out there, and for that I am proud of my boys. I don't think we could have done any better today, but in the end fatigue got the better of us, and we lost it. That's something we'll work on for the next game, but for now, we're going out to celebrate our first ever U21 match."

In the other Group F match, fellow unranked side Fimble loving peoples pushed Cockbill Street all the way in a twelve-goal thriller that saw the Streetians win 7-5. This result will give the Vtorbetites hope that they can cause a stir against these two team, possibly even sneaking into the next round. For now, though, everybody is concentrating on this marvellous defeat to the world champs, and I can't think of anyone who would have wanted it any other way.

Final Score

Fmjphoenix 5 Chen 3, Dante 10, 61, Vogel 49, Espinoza 85
Vtorbetin 2 Ingalls 15, Atkin 42

Current football record

P W D L F A +/-
1 0 0 1 2 5 -3

(OOC: Just wondering - was that any good? Was it a bit too long? Should I cut it down in future?)

OOC: That was fine.

IC:
FALE reject Hall-of-Fame idea
Dussis: "Wait until 20th Cup"

The FALE have rejected the Hockey Canadian idea for an under-21 Hall of Fame. Gareth Dussis, FALE chairman, whose father Paul started the under 21 championship as FALE chief around WC12 (real WC), has told reporters that he wasn't totally ruling out a "hall of fame", though.

"I'm not saying it isn't possible to do a hall of fame, but at this stage I personally feel it is too early for this. Why an under 21 Hall of Fame even before a World Cup HoF, too? I'm sure my father wouldn't have accepted this. I'd be glad to allow a Hall of Fame, say, after a World Cup one has been set up, or perhaps when we've completed twenty or twenty-five tournaments.

"Also, I don't enjoy the idea of it being in Total n Utter Insanity, although that may be my own viewpoint. Although to date they have hosted every single cup, the idea was concocted here, in Liverpool England, so if anywhere that memorial should be here.

"Why I'd advocate a World Cup Hall of Fame first is this - the World Cup is the biggest tournament to win. This is, perhaps, a subsidiary of that competition. I'd love to see my father get acknowledged for his World Cup contributions [Liverpool England won World Cup 8 beating Bedistan; finishing third a cup later beating Bedistan again]... I would support a motion for an under-21 championship hall-of-fame if we waited until the twentieth.... twenty-fifth or so.... cup."

Fingernails bitten ahead of Matchday 2


The confidence that emanated from the Hypocria camp at the start of the tournament has long since evaporated, replaced by a distinct since of nervousness ahead of the clash with Kylaai.

The unranked side already have three points on the board and, with news that Starblaydia have beaten South Osettia in their customary early kick-off, a second win would mean a guaranteed place for Kylaai in the knockout stages.

On paper we should win but in the top half of the draw rankings have meant very little so far, Kylaai beat South Osettia, Pacitalia beat Sarzonia and Jerusalem were held by the Funny Looking Islands.

Coach Dragov was unavailable for comment, as he had retired to the bar to drown his sorrows having been referred to as ‘that old bag’ by a Crystilakere fan, but assistant coach DiMarco had this to say:

“Unranked teams can pull off a shock, we know that. This time two years ago we were unranked and we beat former champions Druida. Nedalia got all the way to the final when they weren’t ranked and look where they are now. Kylaai cannot be taken lightly but if we attack like we did against Starblaydia and tighten up a bit at the back we should be too strong. We are still hopeful of getting into the second round.”

Matthias DiMarco there, not exactly oozing confidence.

Will the Hyppos beat Kylaai? We’ll find out soon enough.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y197/Spruitland/sportsgazette.jpg


Bunnies hop into the next round

Funny Looking Islands – Spruitland: 1 – 4

With a convincing victory over the Funny Looking Islands, the Spruitland Bunnies have won their second game in a row and stay in the lead in group B, ensured of a spot in the Second Round, regardless of the result of the Jeruselem vs. Vilita match.

Coach Cor Bensen’s fear of breaking their teeth on the sturdy F.L.I. defense proved unjustified, though the Bunnies did get some help from the man in black to break the match open. Fifteen minutes into the game, Juri Kocarov went down in the area after nothing more than a minor contact, but the referee put the ball on the penalty spot without a moment’s doubt.

Kocarov wanted to convert the penalty himself, but Dirk Jools would have nothing of it, and after a brief but heated debate, Spruitland’s Under-21 topscorer made it clear who the star of the team was. Jools confidently put the ball into the roof of the goal, out of the F.L.I. goalie’s reach.

The 0 – 1 deficit forced the Funny Looking Islanders out of their own area in search of the equalizer, creating room for the Spruitlanders to attack. Despite superiority on midfield, it wasn’t until right before half-time that the Bunnies managed to double their lead.

Ziggy Wilander intercepted a poor pass from a F.L.I. defender and one-timed the ball into the path of Juri Kocarov, who found himself with only the rushing-out goalie in front of him. Kocarov kept his nerves under control and chipped the ball over the keeper to score the first goal in his international career.

The second half saw more of the same, with an Islanders team that tried to fight back but was unable to make a fist, and the Spruitlanders taking their time to search for the right opening. That opening came shortly before the hour when a direct free kick from Beck was parried by the F.L.I. keeper, but Jools had nicely followed through to tap in the rebound.

With a three goal lead, Bensen brought in young Chico Provoost to replace Juri Kocarov, who was far from happy with this decision. Provoost, who scored the winning goal against Vilita, almost did even better when his first ball contact was a powerful header aimed at goal, but it bounced back off the crossbar. The defense blindly kicked the ball away but a little luck made it stay in F.L.I. possession and with a splitting counter attack striker Robin Crusöe managed to pull one back.

The Bunnies took their foot off the pedal after that, keeping the ball moving to maintain control over the match. A few minutes before full time, Chico scored his second goal of the tournament to make the final score 1 – 4. In an almost exact copy of the goal against Vilita, Provoost beat out the defense and headed the ball into the net on a corner kick from Lee Beck, and young Chico confirmed his potential for international stardom by making a double cartwheel before grabbing the corner flag and raising it triumphantly into the air.

With two goals in roughly fifty minutes of play time, 16-year old Provoost is quickly stealing the hearts of Spruitland supporters. Reporters and camera crews swarmed him after the match, and Chico undoubtedly turned himself into every highschool girl’s dream when he made a phone call – live on camera – to his mother, at home in the suburbs of Mayo City, with tears in his eyes, saying “Mommie, I scored again.” Minutes after the broadcast, the phrase had been trademarked by Chico’s manager, and the first batch of 3 million t-shirts has been ordered, with more expected to follow soon.

“Well, he’s not bad with his head,” a slightly annoyed Dirk Jools admitted, “but let’s not over-react here, shall we? It takes more than that to make a good striker. Take me, for instance. I can score with my head, with my left foot, right foot, from the penalty spot, you name it. Let’s not forget who scored twice tonight.”

Coach Cor Bensen strongly disagreed that Provoost would only be able to score with his head, and confirmed that “the kid has tremendous potential”, but agreed with Jools that it’s best not to over-react, refusing the suggestion to put the young striker in the starting line-up for the match against Jeruselem.

“Give the kid a break,” Bensen said. “He’s 16, he doesn’t need the pressure of being a national hero. Give him some time to grow, his time will come.”

Bensen also added that the young striker still lacks some stamina to be able to handle the full 90 minutes in an international competition, and he intends to use him as a sort of “super-sub”.

About the match against Funny Looking Islands, Bensen could find very few bad things to say. He admitted he would have preferred a clean sheet, but he didn’t dwell on it and focused on praising the whole team for their effort, and the strikers in particular for their efficient finishing.

“This takes all the pressure away from the match against Jeruselem, and we can focus on playing a good, entertaining game of football. Our goal has been reached. Whatever happens now, this World Cup is a success.”

When asked if he intends to give a few of the substitutes a chance against Jeruselem to give some of the starters a rest, Bensen shook his head.

“Probably not. For one thing, it wouldn’t be fair to the other teams in the group, who might depend on our result for a spot in the Second Round. And for another, we want to win every game we play, whether it matters or not. If we get half a chance, we’ll wipe the floor with the number three seed and won’t think twice about it.”

Funny Looking Islands – Spruitland: 1 – 4
0-1 Jools (pen. 17’)
0-2 Kocarov (42’)
0-3 Jools (57’)
1-3 Crusöe (59’)
1-4 Provoost (87’)

One goal win strikes worry for Hockey Canadians

Though the Canucks went away with a win, Hockey Canada has been worried with the small win over unranked Krytenia. They walked away with 3 points and 1st place in Group E, but Coach Toe Blake thinks the Canucks put in a bad effort today.

"They were all over the place today and couldn't maintain a trap to save their lives. If not for Thomas, Habsheid and Dunvegan we'd be down 3 points in the group."

Habsheid got the game looking promising for Hockey Canada when he scored 8 minutes into the game on a very long shot from 32 yards out that soared over the Krytenia keeper. Rahul Kulkarni missed his chance in the 21st minute to make it 2-0 when he broke free on a breakaway but missed his shot wide and high to the right.

Krytenia pressed hard in the second half, firing all shots on Thomas but he stood strong. Thomas nearly blew his performance when a Krytenia midfielder shot a long dup-in from half and Thomas misplayed it. The ball skipped out of his arms behind him but he managed to recover the ball.

The final whistle blew with a shot from Miko Ko that would have been the longest field goal in history from a 61-yard shot that whistled well over the Krytenia keeper.

Group E
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Hockey Canada 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 3
Kassyyk 1 0 1 0 3 3 0 1
Druida 1 0 1 0 3 3 0 1
Krytenia 1 0 0 1 0 1 -1 0

With the Canucks comfortable in fron by 2 points, if Kassyyk or Druida loses one more game and HC wins, they're qualified. This is HCNN, signing off.

The Nedalia Lions


With 1 game in and 2 more two go for the Nedalia Lions in Group D, the tension within the camp has been kicked up another notch. The training session was especially brutal today as manager Brent Vent has shown uncharacteristic anger at his team.

“I cannot believe what I’m seeing. Last training session we had, they were just mucking around, as if the f****ng victories were going to come themselves. They don’t seem to have a sense of understanding just how good these other teams are. We are competing with the best teams in the universe, and its going to be no laughing matter when we return home to Nedalia as losers, again. It is something I will not accept, and neither should these sorry excuses for players.”

The manager, however, does present a fine point. This U21 World Cup has become viewed as one possibly the toughest one since Nedalia joined the football ranks, with quality teams coming in an abundant nature. Ofcourse, there is the defending champions, fellow AO nation Fmjphoenix, who just defeated Vtorbetin 5-2. Starblaydia, who have been a thorn on the side of the Nedalian squad the past 2 World Cups, have come back and are strong as ever. Then there are newcomers such as Spruitland and Hypocria, who are also AO nations, who have the potential to do what the Nedalian squad did 2 World Cups ago. And to complicate matters even worse, there is Sarzonia, Hockey Canada, and Pacitalia, who are all capable of winning it all.

Clearly, there is no clear-cut favorite in this U21 World Cup, but the Lions, who were seeded 6th coming in, must be one of the contenders for the throne. The team Nedalia has fielded is the most talented bunch since the Nedalian FA began sending teams to the World Cups, even more talented the runner-up team of World Cup 14. Spectacular players such as Constantine, Jamhurra, Howard, Lumiere, and Khadra, combine to make an overwhelming presence for any team they play against. The attacking mentality of the Lions has been unchanged since the Randy Gamman days, and the flamboyance and flair continues to be an integral part of the Nedalian game.

The 4-1 victory over Oaker showed the attacking brilliance that the Lions can present. However, it also highlighted, in the last 10 minutes, the defensive inadequacies that the Lions are capable of when they lose focus. Manager Vent must be able to teach them how to maintain their composure and realize that the game is not over until the final whistle has blown. If they can get that together, then there is no reason why this team should fail in their ultimate quest.

Match day 2 looms: Pacitalia confident

Straight off the heels of a 3-2 nailbiter victory over favoured Sarzonia on the green pitches of Total n' Utter Insanity, the Pacitalian side appears more confident than ever before, now that they have overcome the biggest obstacle to date in U21 World Cup 16 with that victory.

Sarzonia, as mentioned, was expected to win, or at least Pacitalia was expected to scrounge a low-scoring tie with the Junior Stars, but the complete opposite happened despite a charge by the Sarzonian side throughout the second half. Now, Pacitalia moves on and faces non-seeded teams, and although it should be at least a tie or a win for the Pacitalian boys, they're not counting out the opposition.

"The last thing we can do is be cocky," forward Andreos Charisteas said today at this morning's practice. "We have a real shot at winning the group now, but we need to take these matches one at a time. We haven't won the group until we've won the group, and that's all there is to it."

"I know we can do this, but I also know we need to be careful and conservative with our play style, sticking to what we've always done. A loss to one of these non-seeds could put a group win by us in complete jeopardy," added midfielder Bertrando Massimatto.

OOC: Thanks for the compliment, Nedalia. :)

This beautiful life - Young Orange-Blues undefeated
The Young Orange-Blues showed their defensive class in the match against Kzuu Mai. The Kzuu Maians had no single chance in the entire match, which is the best proof of the Rejistanian superiority in defense. The Orange-Blues left their half nearly never in the entire match, Kzuu Mai was attacking like being under a spell but they could not get past the 10 young Orange-Blue defenders. The match was inherently beautiful due to the used tactics. Only the Maian fans felt angry about this tactics. "[The Rejistanians] play like prison wardens!" shouted an angry Maian when asked about the match, "do they know at all what <untranslatable> is?". Unsurprisingly, the match ended scoreless.

Fimble Loving Peoples 'fumble' up in rout, Vikings win 10th straight

Dating back to last cup, this was the Chen and Vogel show. But now its all about everyone, as all four forwards scored a goal at one point in the match and Franlin Cabrillo earned his 11th clean sheet as goalkeeper for the Junior Vikings as Fmjphoenix defeated Fimble Loving Peoples 4-0 en route to their 10th straight win.

The match started off slowly for the Junior Vikings, as they appeared sluggish from lack of sleep. But 10 minutes into the match, it was FLP that looked sluggish, and it was readily aparent. Brian Dougood was the first scorer, with a strike at the 12th minute off of a cross from Trowa Notrob. Barely 4 minutes later, Bruce Chen took a penelty shot in past the FLP keeper for a quick 2-0 lead. FLP tried to make a comeback with a counter attack, but Cabrillo was there ever step of the way and easily cleared the shot taken by one of their forwards. Arien Vogel came back with a counter attack off of the clearence, as he recieved a pass from Virgil Dante and took a shot in the box for a 3-0 lead. Dante wanted a piece of the scoring for himself though, as he put in a header in the 38th minute to put the Junior Vikings up 4-0 in the first half. The secdond half was uneventful, as most of the Fmjphoenix reserves were gaining some much needed and valuble playing time in which they neither lost nor gained any more goals.

With their 10th straight victory in a row, the Junior Vikings are closing in on their 9th straight berth into the second round. They must play Cockbill Street in their final match of the first round, and they are looking to make it another perfect first round. Look for the Junior Vikings to go for their 11th straight and try to close in on the team record of 13 straight victories.

Fmjphoenix: 4 - Fimble Loving Peoples: 0
Dougood 12, Chen 16, Vogel 21, Dante 38 - None

East Lithuania Prepares For Match Day 2


After a tie the first game, East Lithuania's last training session went alright dispite the increase in challenge put up by Couch Discolo. However, he knows that they will have to train even harder in the upcoming games. Espesilly there game against number 6 seed, Nedalia. Being the highest rank team in Group D, the Sharks hope to find some weakness. However, there confidence proves they have what it takes, since all the players remember last years tie with Starblaydia.

"This team definatly has what it takes." claims Couch Discolo after practice. "Although we lost Weever as a goalie, Wagner is definatly stepping up. He is improving at a great pace and we all know that he will need to try hard. Everyone here knows that the next 2 games are nothing close to a push-over."

Day 2
Group A
South Osettia 1 Starblaydia 3
Hypocria 5 Kylaai 3
Group B
Vilita 0 Jeruselem 3
Funny Looking Islands 1 Spruitland 4
Group C
Harbinzia 1 Sarzonia 4
Pacitalia 4 An archy 2
Group D
East Lithuania 3 Nedalia 4
Oaker 6 Bedistan 6
Group A
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Starblaydia 2 2 0 0 6 3 3 6
Hypocria 2 1 0 1 7 6 1 3
Kylaai 2 1 0 1 7 8 -1 3
South Osettia 2 0 0 2 4 7 -3 0
Group B
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Spruitland 2 2 0 0 5 1 4 6
Jeruselem 2 1 1 0 3 0 3 4
Funny Looking Islands 2 0 1 1 1 4 -3 1
Vilita 2 0 0 2 0 4 -4 0
Group C
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Pacitalia 2 2 0 0 7 4 3 6
Sarzonia 2 1 0 1 6 4 2 3
An archy 2 1 0 1 6 7 -1 3
Harbinzia 2 0 0 2 4 8 -4 0
Group D
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Nedalia 2 2 0 0 8 4 4 6
Bedistan 2 0 2 0 8 8 0 2
East Lithuania 2 0 1 1 5 6 -1 1
Oaker 2 0 1 1 7 10 -3 1

Canucks found drunk in hotel.

They were wasted. Totally wasted. That was all the Hockey Canadian officials could say after their 1-0 win over Krytenia. Thw win struck controversy in the consumption of alcolholic beverages for players and fans. Abiding by the rules distinctly made in Hockey Canada: Illegal drinking age is just a suggestion. The officials were stunned when a few players did show up to their post-game interview red-faced and sleepy.

Players such as Nick Dunvegan, Kyle Thomas and Mike Ko even fell over a few times. Some midfielders were afraid of the nets because they appeared to be "cages of doom where the little white pill must be inserted to keep the almighty Beelzebul from escaping his goal-crease and attack the other team's keeper so we can win." Pause for breath.

Even Head Coach Toe Blake was drunk out of his mind. Hitting on what he thought was the team supermodel was really a local donkey. The donkey was later seen in his hotel room and clothing pieces were found scattered across the floor. Blake responded to cameras and microphones in his underwear as the donkey walked out of the room looking scared but relieved at the same time.

The team promises to show up to their next games sober. Kassyyk and Druida still need to play against the Canucks. If the Canucks win and Druida and Kassyyk draw or lose HC automatically qualifies for the round-of-16, a habit for the Hockey Canadians now. Leading Group E, they have been blessed with teams in their group for the last 2 U21WCs.

The team will be recieving shots in their left and right bumcheeks as caffiene will be injected or them. They enter the room looking scared at the massive needle with red ooze and leave all rubbing their buttocks and a sore look on their faces. You'll have to get over the hangover sooner or later Canucks.

Stars storm back, 4-1

That was more like it.

After a 3-2 loss to new group favourites Pacitalia that put the Sarzonian national team in a dangerous spot, the Junior Stars finally played the kind of game Coach Valentin Kienzl wanted, getting two goals and two assists from Jarret Sanderson en route to a 4-1 win over Harbinzia that raised the team's spirits and put the Stars back in contention for the knockout rounds.

"We started to play good football," Kienzl said. "With Jenna [Raven, midfielder] out, we weren't sure what we had. We found out a little bit tonight."

Team doctors said Raven, injured during the Pacitalia loss, would be unavailable for the final stage match, but could play in the second round match if she has no setbacks.

"Jenna's a tough gal. She'll be fine when it's time to turn things on."

The Junior Stars turned things on, jumping out to a 4-0 lead just 32 minutes into the match and playing keep-away the rest of the match. Sarzonia looks to punch its ticket into the second round with a match against An archy. A win or draw sends the Stars through for the eighth straight time and the 12th time in 13 Cups.

"We're not worried about streaks," Sanderson said. "We just want to win matches."

Another outstanding performance as Pacitalia sits in a good position

The Pacitalian U21 side went into Match Day 2 against unknown, non-seeded An archy a confident bunch of boys, and came out even moreso, following a 4-2 victory over their opponents. Now, the home side has two wins under their belt from the round robin, and a possible third one coming against another unseeded side from Harbinzia, soundly rocked 4-1 by a high-seed Sarzonian team, itself stunned by a 3-2 loss to Pacitalia just the match before.

"We weren't trying to go in cocky and overconfident," forward Massimo da Scupeta said after the match. "We knew it was a winnable game, but that playing any differently than we did in the Sarzonian game would have probably resulted in an unfavourable result, and as such we would have landed back at square one. It would have been just like the round robin had never started, because we already knew the Sarzonia-Harbinzia result, and I think that gave us the further spark and motivation to go out there and protect our lead in the group standings."

Fumbly play by defender Primo Giacinto, seemingly under psychological disturbance and a raincloud of guilt after his rather rough, injurious throw-down of Sarzonian midfielder Jenna Raven in the last match, resulted in a quick sweep through by the tight forward formation of An archy, and the underdogs took the lead, 1-0 in the 11th minute. The momentum seemed to be on An archy's side from the miscue, and soon enough Coach Santo Castorini pulled Giacinto in favour of substitute Iancu Valeriu in the 22nd minute.

The switch to a more confident defender brought the Pacitalian side back into the mix, and in the 30th minute, Pacitalia responded with a fabulous blocked low goal kick that fell nearly right into the lap of Massimo da Scupeta, resulting in a sprint back to the goal, and a quick flick of the ball over to Charisteas where the latter forward pocketed the tying goal.

Valeriu furthered the Pacitalian confidence by drawing his own nice play, deking out a An archian midfielder and thus putting the rest of the midpitch of the opponent on crisis mode as the four midfielders streaked up the pitch. Sweeper Nicusor Petru Vasilica was close behind, befuddling any chance of catching the four by blocking out chasing An archians. Two dropped back, leaving Bertrando Massimatto and Eusebio Pancrazio in the centre of the pitch, doing an outstanding give-and-go with an eventual pass to Charisteas. Charisteas feinted a shot, passed to da Scupeta and he too faked, heel-kicking the ball back to Pancrazio who scored his first goal in three U21 cups. Pacitalia, of course, took a resulting lead 2-1.

Halftime seemed to do a bit for the An archians, but not as much as it had done for the Sarzonians in the last match. The opposing side came out strong in the 47th minute with a beautiful straight-on, no-gimmicks kick to the top corner that left keeper Romano Cristiano Santi confounded. The score was then tied, 2-2, for the majority of the second half.

It took the Pacitalians until the 79th minute to recover their lead, with da Scupeta capitalising well on a breakaway and scoring an almost identical goal to the An archian one 32 minutes earlier, except this time in the top-right corner with a 82-km/h laser from his right foot. The score remained 3-2 until the 85th minute when Charisteas, da Scupeta and Massimatto, Pacitalia's "Terrific Three", played an outstanding feint-and-go, confusing the An archian keeper and giving Pacitalia its seventh goal of this incarnation of the Under-21 World Cup.

The score ended up 4-2, as mentioned, with da Scupeta taking Man of the Match honours. The next game in the round robin stage is the last one, with Pacitalia taking on a Harbinzia team that has lost the first two games of the round robin stage following 4-3 and 4-1 losses to An archy and Sarzonia, respectively. With any luck, Pacitalia may just take the group for the first time since the 11th version of the U21 World Cup, and will thusly advance to the second round for the fifth time in seven entries.

I'm Michelo Obranto for PNN.

~ Dull draw MD1 ~


~ Group H:
MD1 - D
Crystilakere v. Gaian Ascendancy (1 - 1)


GANN Sports Desk: ~ Our appologies with this late report, news channels have been reporting concerning a near war that almost broke out between the Draconis Federation and the Gaian Ascendancy over the occupation of the Deatharon Imperial Republic, formerly an Empire the Gaians liberated.

But, as war footing has been averted, and a stable situation being declared once more, signal channels have been resotred once more, and we can report on the progress of the U21 Soft Wings squad, one that faces a Group field of a 'very' steep climb.

Their first match ends in a draw, and while this is nothing new to the U21 squad, they stand in third after only one day, and this time have to fight harder to get through this time.

The only goal in the match against Crystilakere was from veteran U21 squad Striker, Haim Morisato. A strike in the 33rd minute ended up giving a draw, as the Gaians later gave one up in the 51st minute of play. Possession for the match was dead even, and it was a match of more defense than anything.

"Another draw? Dang, isn't the goddess going to give us some help to beat these upper teams? It's like they are the 'only' ones meant to win or something. I'm getting sick of it." The ristar of the club said to holocamera droids.

"We'll give it our all as usual. But something tells me that the draw we got is more than just a test. We're not making accusations, but more giving ourselves the chance we seem to be lacking." The Soft Wing's coach mentioned with a calm tone.

"One of these days we'll break through. We can't be nobodies forever. And we 'mean' that."

Perennial Losers Try Again
Apathy Reaches New Levels

Not one Streetian questioned today could name any of the players in the current Under-21 team - though when asked who Olenite, Steve Tudgay or Irene Miller was, they would immediately reply with the club team in the Compound League that the three play for. However, they are also Under-21 members, and they were instrumental as the Street overcame Fimble loving peoples by 7-5 in their first match in the tournament. Olenite came off the bench to score two late goals, Tudgay had two assists off corners although his defensive efforts left something to be desired, and Irene Miller was undoubtedly Humanoid of the Match with four assists.

The squad list, as published by the Department of Sports yesterday, reads as follows:

Goalkeepers:

1. Tom Ricketts, aged 21, av rating 5.69, Jotneheim Mountains AFC
13.Olaf Axethwackersson, aged 20, av rating 5.72, K'haz'bak K'druz'ba*

Defenders:

2. Tridymite, aged 20, av rating 5.69, central/left back, Jotneheim Mountains AFC*
3. Steve Tudgay, aged 20, av rating 5.55, central defender, Vimesbairn United*
4. Kevin Cowan, aged 21, av rating 5.69, central defender, Jotneheim Mountains AFC*
5. Chris Adcook, aged 21, av rating 5.84, right back, Vimesbairn United*
14.Fred Caddick, aged 18, av rating 5.55, central/left back, Vimesbairn Athletic
17.Olaf Groinbiter, aged 19, av rating 5.61, full back, Grakh'nakh K'druz'ba

Midfielders:

6. Percy Beswetherick, aged 20, av rating 5.71, defensive midfielder, Chesham Rangers*
7. Irene Miller, aged 20, av rating 5.91, winger, Vimesbairn Athletic*
8. Robert Fredericks, aged 18, av rating 5.66, central midfielder/right winger, KI Lanthanate
11.Harald Stonefinder, aged 21, av rating 5.81, right winger, Laf'goh'lith K'druz'ba*
12.Hedyphane, aged 17, av rating 5.82, attacking midfielder, Point/Grunt AC*
16.Bjorn Spearwielder, aged 20, av rating 5.77, left winger, K'haz'bak K'druz'ba

Attackers:

9. Olivia Peterson, aged 18, av rating 5.65, Chesham Rangers*
10.Liam Williams, aged 20, av rating 5.70, Roegrow Athletic*
15.Alan Johnstone, aged 21, av rating 5.66, Grakh'nakh K'druz'ba
18.Olenite, aged 21, av rating 5.55, striker, Jotneheim Mountains AFC
19.Darren Stubbs, aged 20, av rating 5.41, R'dhuz'lith K'druz'ba

Back from the Brink

Hypocria 5 - 3 Kylaai
Kreska 25
Golla 35
Burdali 56, 88
Blanco 71

The nervousness of the Hypocria players coming into this match threatened to end their tournament early but they fought back with a magical display in the second half to keep that dream of second round qualification alive.

It all started so badly though as the Kylaai defense played a long ball over the top and Hypocria’s three central defenders stepped forward to spring the offside trap. But no offside flag was forthcoming and the Kylaai striker raced forward before drilling the ball low past the advancing Derevko.

It was to get worse shortly afterwards as a long throw into the box caused panic and the ball was forced over the line for a second Kylaai goal.

It was a set piece that revived the Hyppos chances on 25 minutes when Baxter swung in an inswinging corner and big defender Kreska bulleted in the header.

Ten minutes later it was 2-2 when Burdali found Baxter who released Golla wide on the right. The wing back cut inside and curled a wonderful shot with his much weaker left foot which nestled inside the far post.

Against Starblaydia the Hyppos switched off as halftime approached and against Kylaai they did the same. It was another goal mouth scramble, this time from a corner, which again saw the ball forced over the line giving the unranked side a 3-2 lead going into the break and meaning they were 45 minutes away from qualifying from the group. Hypocria was on the verge of elimination.

Knowing a victory was a must coach Dragov made a bold substitution at halftime, replacing defensive midfielder Sinclair with a third striker as the formation changed from 5-3-2 to 3-4-3.

Ten minutes after the restart the equalizer came. Again Baxter found Golla down the right flank. He swung in a cross which was nodded back by Karic and hit on the half volley by Burdali, the shot took a little deflection and flew past the keeper.

Hypocria were in the ascendancy and finally went into the lead for the first time in the match when Burdali, this time turning provider, played a wonderfully weighted through ball. The halftime substitute Blanco raced onto it and, one on one with the keeper, he kept his cool and side footed Hypocria’s fourth.

The final goal came in the 88th minute of the match. The talismanic Burdali picked the ball up 25 yards out, no one came to close him down so he took aim and fired a magnificent right footed effort that crashed in off the underside of the bar.

After the match Coach Boubacar Dragov looked decidedly greyer:

“At halftime we were going out of the competition so I had to do something to turn it around and my players responded magnificently and now we are second in the group. It all comes down to the next match, if we attack like we did today then will have a great chance of qualifying but we have to stop conceding three goals.”

In the other match Starblaydia beat South Osettia 3-1 to go top of the group and be virtually assured of qualification to the second round.

Day 2
Group A
South Osettia 1 Starblaydia 3
Hypocria 5 Kylaai 3

The final fixtures will see top side Starblaydia face Kylaai while Hypocria take on bottom side South Osettia. A second round place is within touching distance for the Hyppos but can they take it? We certainly hope so.

Group A
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Starblaydia 2 2 0 0 6 3 3 6
Hypocria 2 1 0 1 7 6 1 3
Kylaai 2 1 0 1 7 8 -1 3
South Osettia 2 0 0 2 4 7 -3 0

Jeruselem Government News

Jungle Kitties blasted out of U21C16

Jeruselem played Vilita in a crunch game in U21C16. Vilita had no points while Jeruselem had only the point from the draw. For the teams, a win was crucial as Funny Looking Islands also had a point. Vilita's record against Jeruselem was also impressive, but Jeruselem was the 3rd seed this time.

Well, Jennifer Hawkins starred for Jeruselem as she scored a hat trick to bundle Vilita out of the group stage. Unlike the stale draw against Funny Looking Islands, the 3rd seed stepped up and showed why was it was ranked so high. The Jeruselem midfield frustrated the Kitties all game, and allowed the attack to make it's mark.

Hawkins scored with a low shot under the keeper in the 30th minute. Not content, she powered home another goal near half time from a corner. For a while Jeruselem was content to shut out a desperate Vilita but Hawkins added insult to injury and lobbed over the Vilita keeper late in the game to complete her hat trick.

Spruitland secured a spot in the next round when it hammered Funny Looking Islands 4-1. Jeruselem meet Spruitland and the Islanders are hoping Spruitland win, but they must beat Vilita as well. Given the goal differences, Jeruselem would need to be asleep to not make the next round as the Islander's goal difference is bad.

South Ossettia is out of the U21C16 after losing to Starblaydia. Well almost, they need to win their next game and hope the other two teams on 3 points don't get anymore points (ie Starblaydia wins).

Sarzonia recovered with a great 4-1 win.

Group B
Vilita 0 Jeruselem 3
Funny Looking Islands 1 Spruitland 4


Group B
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Spruitland 2 2 0 0 5 1 4 6
Jeruselem 2 1 1 0 3 0 3 4
Funny Looking Islands 2 0 1 1 1 4 -3 1
Vilita 2 0 0 2 0 4 -4 0

http://www.dirt-racing.com/3wide/sites/vilita/vn/aov.gif



"So Amfali, how did the tournament go?" The Atlantian Leader looked at his former slave Amfali.

Amfali, beaten and worn from a long journey home, responded. "Sir, it's been 2 years since they've let us play a match. We thank you for the facilities but they must not have been enough, we were not able to win the 14th Under 21 World Cup, and we could not even beat the Vilitans like you promised we could."

"Now, now my boy, it will be fine, It was my fault for buying you lads a training ground on someone elses land." Tha Atlantian Leader chuckled. "You listen here, go out to the floor and ring for Itipanizo, we'll get this sorted."

"But of course sir!" Amfali rushed to complete the leaders orders, and within moments returned. "He should be on his way, sir."

"Great news, I will see to it that you lads no longer must train in that wretched Island of Turori. We'll get you a proper training facility, state of the art, right here inside our walls." The Atlantian Leader noticed Amfali still standing there. "Go boy, tell your friends to come home while i try and sell that old piece of land in Turori."

The Nedalia Lions

Despite Nedalia taking the lead three times, the East Lithuania team refused to give up, coming back each time to equalize. The match might have ended up all even if it wasn’t for a 88th minute wonder strike by Jamhurra that gave the Nedalia Lions the 3 points they were craving, and sent them packing into the 2nd round. ManagerBrent Vent had a few words after the match:

“It was undeniably a fantastic shot by Jamhurra, but why were we in that position in the first place? Well, its obvious the East Lithuanians are a talented bunch with tones of potential, but we cannot begin the old habit of conceding stupid goals. We must maintain our focus defensively, or we won’t last past the 2nd round. You can’t expect to win games where you concede 3 goals. Thankfully for us, we have the offensive talent to overcome that, but teams like Starblaydia (those damn Blades), Sarzonia, and Fmjphoenix won’t let you have those 3 – 4 goals. We have to become more successful at the defensive end if we want to see any type of real success.”

Still, it was the Lions who, for the majority of the match, dominated possession, keeping the ball in the East Lithuania side of the pitch. The 1st goal came by way of Dennis Howard, after a brilliant array of passing presented by the Lions in the 18th minute. That however, was quickly countered with a goal in the 24th minute to equalize match.

Despite attacking relentlessly, it wasn’t until the 44th minute that the Nedalians would see another goal, this time coming by way of Jansen, off of a simple tap in from a cross by Jamhurra. The Lions would only get the halftime break to enjoy their lead, however, as the East Lithuanians would strike in the 49th minute, just 4 minutes into the 2nd half.

Again, the Lions pursued relentlessly, and that finally paid off in the 76th minute, when substitute Peter Merhi nailed in the advantage goal, making the result 3-2. One would have that that would be the goal that would finally bring down this resilient East Lithuanian side, but then again, one might be wrong. Six minutes after, they would equalize again, in the 82nd minute, making the scoreline 3-3.

Credit has to be given to the Lions for not packing it in and being satisfied with the tie. They continued to press, and press even harder, completely dominating the last few minutes of match. Their efforts were handsomely rewarded, with an 88th minute wonder goal by Jamhurra finally sealing the match, and handing the Lions a hard earned 3 points.

With 2 victories from their 2 group matches, the Lions have now qualified for the 2nd round. However, Brent Vent refuses to take it easy in the upcoming derby match against Bedistan.

“The Bedistanis are our neighbors, and its always fun when you have a local derby going on. Its true that we aren’t too associated with each other, but there is a small rivalry building up. We’ve defeated them once before, hopefully we can pull it off again.”

So far, the Nedalians have done a good job of finishing off games. The match against Bedistan should prove a delightful, fun affair which both set of fans, hopefully, should enjoy immensely.

Seven Goals, Zero Points

After the joy of their 5-2 defeat to Fmjphoenix, the Vtorbetites have now discovered another side to football - Under 21 despair. Yes, despite scoring five goals in their game against Cockbill Street, Vtorbetin still failed to notch their first ever point, in what was a high scoring ordeal, something that only ever occurs in Total n Utter Insanity, which could explain things. Nevertheless, coach Wilhite was furious about the way the referee composed himself in the match.

"I thought the way he dealt with certain issues was ludicrous. How he found a way to award Cockbill Street three penalties was beyond me, especially seeing as he didn't send any players off either. I suspect some foul play, but you can't say nowt nowadays without being brought up before a hearing, so I won't go into details."

Wilhite was later brought up before a hearing to explain his comments. He was released due to lack of sustainable evidence (it appears that the junkie who overheard the 'comments' was nowhere to be found).

Back to the match though, it was tipped to be a close-fought game, and with Cockbill Street nearly losing out in the first match, there was even a hint of a Vtorbetin shock. However, it was not to be, thanks to three rather dubious penalty decisions.

Things started off well for Vtorbetin, with Travis Baumann snapping up a loose ball and slotting it past the keeper after just seven minutes. Ten minutes later he scored again, this time from a header, to double the team's lead. It looked good for the youngsters, but a Cockbill Street fightback saw them concede three goals in ten minutes. Randy Ingalls found the equaliser just before half time, after Chris Coronado used his immense strength to make it past three defenders.

With the tie delicately balanced at 3-3, it was still anybody's guess as to where the points were going. Of course, nobody counted on the referee bizarrely turning pro-Streetian. After blowing the whistle to restart the match, the referee blew again almost immediately, and pointed to the penalty spot, despite the fact the Cockbill Street were in possession. Protests fell on deaf ears, and the Streetians capitalised on this strange incident to retake the lead.

Nevertheless, Vtorbetin remained in control, and got the equaliser through Robichaud, a delightful cross from the left wing falling at his feet and making it easy for him to score. It was at this stage that part two of 'The Biased Referee' began, for he pointed into the crowd of Vtorbetin supporters, produced a red card for a man in a wheelchair and ordered him to leave the stadium. He then pointed to the penalty spot again, amidst cat calls from the fans. The disabled man is currently appealing for his red card to be rescinded.

And so, with Cockbill Street 5-4 up, it looked as if that was the end of it. However, the referee had one more trick up his sleeve. After untying his bootlace, he proceeded to fall over, in a manner that would have made any Shakespearean thespian proud. He got up and once again pointed to the spot, and whilst the Streetians had no idea what was going on, they gladly took their third penalty of the game and extended their lead to 6-4.

Jacob Balderas managed to score in injury time to give Vtorbetin fans some hope of a point, but it was not to be, and the teams went off at the end with thousands of fans calling for the referee's head. He later sent a toenail to the VFA, but this was nowhere near enough to compensate for his outrageous display.

With Fmjphoenix beating FLP, this defeat means that Vtorbetin can no longer progress to the second stage, and whilst this wasn't unexpected, the events of the last match leave a bitter taste in the mouth. What it does mean is that the last game againt FLP is all for pride. We expect the Vtorbetites to avenge this farce of a game by squashing their opponents into a purple-coloured pulp.

Final Score

Vtorbetin 5 Baumann 7, 17, Ingalls 43, Robichaud 59, Balderas 90+1
Cockbill Street 6 Williams 25, 48(p), 63(p), Peterson 29, 74(p), Miller 34

Current football record

P W D L F A +/-
2 0 0 2 7 11 -4

East Lithuania Praying For Luck After Lose


With a 4-3 lose to the Nedalia Lions, the East Lithuania will be training extra hard for there next match against Oaker. As Group D already see Nedalia moving on to the second round, the second place spot is still up for grabs, as East Lithuania hopes to take it.

In the end of match day 3, many possibilitys come up as to the deciding of who goes to the next round. If East Lithuania lose or tie, it's over. If Bedistan win, it's also over. However, a East Lithuania win mixed with a Bedistan tie or lose would see East Lithuania moving on to the second round. We will all have to wait for what match day 3 comes up with.

Group E
Druida 0 Hockey Canada 3
Krytenia 1 Kassyyk 5
Group F
Fimble loving peoples 0 Fmjphoenix 4
Vtorbetin 5 Cockbill Street 6
Group G
Kzuu Mai 0 Rejistania 0
Oglethorpia 5 Liverpool England 3
Group H
Gaian Ascendancy 3 Chicanada 4
Paul Sculthorpe fans 0 Crystilakere 1
Group E
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Hockey Canada 2 2 0 0 4 0 4 6
Kassyyk 2 1 1 0 8 4 4 4
Druida 2 0 1 1 3 6 -3 1
Krytenia 2 0 0 2 1 6 -5 0
Group F
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Fmjphoenix 2 2 0 0 9 2 7 6
Cockbill Street 2 2 0 0 13 10 3 6
Vtorbetin 2 0 0 2 7 11 -4 0
Fimble loving peoples 2 0 0 2 5 11 -6 0
Group G
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Oglethorpia 2 1 1 0 5 3 2 4
Liverpool England 2 1 0 1 6 7 -1 3
Rejistania 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 2
Kzuu Mai 2 0 1 1 2 3 -1 1
Group H
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Chicanada 2 2 0 0 7 5 2 6
Crystilakere 2 1 1 0 2 1 1 4
Gaian Ascendancy 2 0 1 1 4 5 -1 1
Paul Sculthorpe fans 2 0 0 2 2 4 -2 0

Street In Penalty Shoot-Out
Nah, Not Really, Just The Scoreline Looks Like It

In a match that was broadcast on Rejistanian television as scare-propaganda (and, with the influence of the mystic mind machines that are in operation in Rejistania, actually worked as such), Cockbill Street won 6-5 over Vtorbetin thanks to three penalties awarded in the second half. Although they were slightly dubious, the Vtorbetites clearly got overworked, because two of the penalties were followed by clear fouls inside the penalty area - the first one was a handball after a Streetian played it up into his hand and got it back, and the second - explained by the Vtorbetites as "a disabled man getting a red card" - was in fact a penalty given because Peterson had been pushed over by Carlos Aitken - the red card given to a spectator was for show.

Still, the amateurs put up a pretty good fight, and could easily have gone off with a draw - however, for once in the Under-21 tournament, the Streetians got lucky. The Apprentices showed good spirit in coming back from 0-2 to lead 6-4 eventually, but with matches coming up against either Chicanada and Crystilakere, it looks difficult for the Apprentices to get any further than the second round. Just like the usual, in other words.

The Apprentices play Fmjphoenix in the last match, a team that's breezed through the group stages so far - winning 5-2 over Vtorbetin and securing a comfortable 4-0 win over Fimble loving peoples in the first half. The Junior Vikings, as they're called, will look to extend their winning streak to eleven successive matches - while the Apprentices are just trying to avoid too large a defeat and get a good run-in for the second round.

Vtorbetin 5 (Baumann 7, 17, Ingalls 43, Robichaud 59, Balderas 90+1)
Cockbill Street 6 (Williams 25, 48 pen, 63 pen, Peterson 29, 74 pen, Miller 34)

Cockbill Street gets kicked out to the 'stree', Junior Vikings cruise to 11th straight win, 10th straight berth

With another strong performence from the Junior Vikings front four men, Fmjphoenix walked all over the Street of Cockbillby putting scoring 4 second half to come back and win 4-2.

Olivia Peterson scored the first goal of the match early on with a nice shot off of a deflection in the 8th minute. It was the first time in the Cup that the Junior Vikings had been behind at any point in the match. This shook the Junior Vikings up a bit because they were used to coming out strong and they were not prepared for the defensive. Franklin Cabrillo slipped up later in the first half, as he was moving to set up to block a shot attempt, but literally slipped and fell down while a hard hit shot by Hedyphane went through to the back of the net, give the Streetians a 0-2 lead. So when the teams went in at the half, Fmjphoenix looked shook.

But when Fmjphoenix came back out for the second half, they were all business. Right away Brigan Dougood lit the fire under the rest of his team, with a strike at the 47th minute, hooking a shot into the upper-left corner. 10 minutes later, Virgil Dante came up with a counter-attack that crossed over Olaf Axethwackersson's arms to tie the match up. With that second goal, the confidence had returned and they were looking like the championship team that has won two cups. It would be another counter-attack that would provide the match turner, as Bruce Chen recieved a long pass from a clearence by Franklin Cabrillo and managed to be alone in the box against Axethwackersson. He faked left and fired right to gain their first lead at the 73rd minute, 3-2. Arien Vogel would add an insurence goal off of a penelty kick that was awarded from a warning to Percy Beswetherick.

By defeating Cockbill Street, Fmjphoenix has now won their 11th straight match, dating back to Under 21 World Cup 14 when they won their 5th place match. Now the magic number for the Junior Vikings is 2. What is that number, you ask? If they manage to continue their hot streak and with 3 matches, they will surpass the club record of 12 straight victories. But for now, Fmjphoenix waits to find out their opponent in the second round. Whoever finishes in second place in Group H will be who the Junior Vikings will match up against. They have never played all three of their possible opponents, but they feel that they are poised to make the run towards the championship and continue their winning streak. Regardless of their opponent, Fmjphoenix will be ready to play hard and the only way they know, all out!

Fmjphoenix: 4 - Cockbill Street: 2
Dougood 47, Dante 57, Chen 73, Vogel 84 - Peterson 8, Hedyphane 32

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y197/Spruitland/sportsgazette.jpg


Bunnies become hunters!

Jeruselem – Spruitland: 0 – 3

Yes, that’s right. The Bunnies’ great form continues as they pummeled the number three seed into submission. After a convincing win over Vilita, Jeruselem seemed recovered from their slow start and ready to take control of Group B. But they needed a win against Spruitland to take the group lead and that was easier said than done.

The Bunnies started the match with nothing to lose, and this lack of pressure immediately showed on the field. 18 year old defender Koenraad Opdebeeck was in the starting eleven for the first time, given preference over Wigmeister because of his accurate long pass, a quality that was expected to come in handy against a stronger team.

But it didn’t turn out that way, and somewhat to everyone’s surprise, it was Spruitland that dominated the early stages of the match, Jeruselem’s nerves clearly visible in inaccurate passes. Opdebeeck thanked the coach for his selection by sending a majestic free kick curling over the Jeruselem goalkeeper 12 minutes into the game. It was the first real chance of the match, and the Bunnies were off to a flying start.

Dirk Jools doubled the lead before half time, scoring his third of the tournament on a splitting last pass from Mariano after a 40 meter counter-attacking rush. An uppercut for Jeruselem, who had been slowly battling themselves back into the match.

The Bunnies started the second half with a surprising substitution as star goalkeeper Simon Briers sat down on the bench in his jeans, his hair still wet from a shower, and 18-year old Tristan Verelst made his international debut. Concerns about an injury were quickly put to rest after the match by coach Cor Bensen.

“This is Briers’ last World Cup with the Under-21s,” he explained, “and it’s time to start thinking about his successor. We were in the lead in a non-vital game. This was a perfect opportunity to let Tristan get some experience.” As if the Bunnies were playing a friendly match…

Tristan Verelst ended up getting plenty of experience. Jeruselem came out of the dressing room with renewed spirits and forced the Bunnies onto their own half for a good twenty minutes. But Verelst didn’t break under the pressure and kept his sheet clean, though not always with an equal amount of flair.

Eventually Jeruselem had to drop the pace a bit, and Ziggy Wilander struck the finishing blow in the 76th, scoring from close range after a classy one-two with Jools – Wilander’s first international goal as well. Chico Provoost came on the field for the last ten minutes and almost scored the 0 – 4, but the Jeruselem goalie felt three was enough and saved in style.

Jersuselem is now stuck with 4 points and will have to await the result of the Vilita vs. F.L.I. match to find out if they move on to the Second Round, though the odds are still in their favor. F.L.I. will need to defeat Vilita with at least a three goal margin to move into second place, which seems an improbable task for the defensive Islanders team.

The Spruitland Bunnies have exceeded their own expectations by finishing the group stage in the top spot, winning three out of three. Before the Jeruselem match, bookmakers put Spruitland’s odds of winning the tournament at 20/1, but after a convincing victory over the 3rd ranked team in the world, this estimate may well change.

Spruitland coach Cor Bensen refused to think that far ahead, but he showed a rare breach of character by adjusting his goal in this competition.

“I’ve always said we’d be happy with a spot in the Second Round,” he said, “and that doesn’t change. But I’d be lying if I said we wouldn’t be disappointed if we didn’t make it to the Quarter Finals, after what we’ve shown tonight.”

“By ending first in our group, we’re avoiding Nedalia in the Second Round. That makes things – on paper at least – a bit easier for us. But it also means we’ll no longer be the underdog. We’re not used to that.”

It’ll have to remain to be seen who Spruitland will face in the Second Round, as the battle for the second place in Group D is still wide open. With 2 points, Bedistan is currently in second, but with their toughest match – against Nedalia – still to come, it seems more likely that either the Oaker family or East Lithuania will move on. With a little luck it will be the latter so the Bunnies will get a chance to pay back the East Lithuanians for the 4 – 2 defeat at the previous Under-21 World Cup.

Regardless of who they will face, Spruitland is moving on to the knock-out stage of an international competition for the very first time, and whatever happens now will be written directly into Spruitland history books. How far the Bunnies will be able to go seems impossible to predict. Going on some of the surprise results in this tournament so far, they have about an equal chance of making it to the final as losing to Oaker in the next round.

“Like I said, semi final,” Dirk Jools maintains. “You just wait and see.”

Jeruselem – Spruitland: 0 – 3
0 – 1 Opdebeeck (12’)
0 – 2 Jools (41’)
0 – 3 Wilander (76’)

Jeruselem Government News

Spruitland Bunnies show teeth

It was the last game of the U21C16 Group stage and Jeruselem faced Group leader Spruitland. At stake was the top spot for Group B, and Jeruselem was kind of expected to win. Spruitland won 3-0 in a shock against a team which beat Vilita 3-0. Spruitland were undefeated and this means Funny Looking Islands have a chance to make the 2nd round, provided they win at least 3-0
against Vilita.

Spruitland's run of spectular form continued as it had beated Vilita and Funny Looking Islands earlier. In fact the game was similar to the Jeruselem vs Vilita game, where Vilita did not recover after being down 2-0 at half time. Jeruselem conceded a late goal and the shock was complete.

In fact U21C16 is different to other U21 championships. Most of the top seeds have had trouble with lower ranked opponents who seem to be wanting to be taking over and they are winning games.

If Jeruselem manage to get into the 2nd round, it will be more luck than skill. With one draw, win and then a loss it's hard to say if this team can make an impact. In U21C14 and U21C15, Jeruselem lost a game in the finals and none in the lower rounds and the group stage, then won all the other games after.

Vilita win something to something less on MD3.

Hockey Canadians happy aboot qualifying

It seems the shots of acetylseryltyrosylserylisoleucylthreonylserylprolylserylglutamine has relieved the drunken hardiness of the Canucks causing some controversy over the legnth of the word. See here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acetylseryltyrosylserylisol...serine)

The shots gave the Canucks the chance to sober up for the game against Druida and they didn't disappoint. The 3-0 win got the Hockey Canadians through to the Round-of-16. Miko Ko scored all three goals and Kyle Thomas walked away with his 2nd shutout of the tournement. Ko scored his first of the game on a free kick some 21 yards out from the Druida keeper. The shot sailed what seeme dlike too high but curved down and fell into the net.

Ko didn't need to worry about any mysterious cages this game as he recieved a pass from Nick Dunvegan in the 41st minute on a 2 on 0 break to tap the ball in as well as himself as he stumbled intot he net. Ko got the hat-trick in the 69th minute when he was hauled down in the penalty area by a Druida keeper. He didn't disappoint as he tapped the ball square into the centre of the net to run around as a shower of hats fell on the field from Canuck supporters.

The Oaker Sharks Under 21

Stadium: Pinealla International Stadium

Roster:

Peanut Butter & Jelly Oaker (GK)

Orion Oaker (D)
Totten Oaker (D)
Dieter Oaker (D)

Rollee Oaker (M)
Kelvin Oaker (M)
Raven Oaker (M)
Trick Oaker (M)

Flam Oaker (F)
Zam Oaker (F)
Zip Oaker (F)

Kodikits u21 News

Kodikits Make It Three Straight

For the third straight session the Chicanadan Kodikits will be advancing to the Round of 16 in the u21 Cup. Now, can they break their own jinx and escape to the Final 4?

Of course, we shouldn't think too far ahead, as the Kodikits had to squeeze out another close win against the Gaian Ascendancy. The 4-3 victory was lead by foreward Iago Jezbil, who scored a hattrick in the first half, preserving a 3-all score going into the half. Raslan Seregn had a rough start, allowing two corner kick scores to slip by as Chicanada was down 2-0 after 12 minutes of action. Jezbil then went on a tear, scoring on a corner kick in the 18th minute and off a header in the 32nd minute after Gaian scores made it a 3-1 game in the 29th. Jezbel scored again in the 42nd minute.

In the second half Mendozi Liamson scored from fifty metres back off a blind pass to put the Kodikits up for good in the 63rd minute.

Th win gives Chicanada 2 wins for the third straight tournament and at 6 points is well on their way to the next round. Their final match is against Crystilakere, who needs at least a tie or a Gaian loss to clinch a slot in the round of 16. Should the Gaians win, Crystilakere would need a win, tie, or a loss that keeps them above the Gaians in GD. Regardless, the Kodikits will be using this match to finally get rid of the kinks that keep making for close matches and lead them on.

Kodikits Lineup for Matchday 2

01 F Hosaiah Quonesh [19 - Territories Union College]
02 F Iago Jezbil [19 - Risa FC]
03 F Quenton Florence [20 - Barclay Rosa]
04 F Mendozi Liamson [18 - Acadia Heights Prep]
05 M Prade Gjno [18 - Bishop East]
06 M David Slovenson [19 - Cavalier]
07 D Karison Lovitzon [19 - Territories Union College]
08 D Usa Vilajen [20 - Barclay Rosa]
09 D Hazj L'ozmakh [18 - Kingdom AC]
10 D Tobias Xavierden [19 - Wosho Gold]
11 G Raslan Seregn [20 - AS Seaport]

In the next round, the Kodikits will have to knock off a strange streak. the u21 squad was bounced in the Round of 8 last tourney on their way to an 8th place finish. This was followed by the Chicanadan Hockey squad, who had been undefeated, getting knocked out in the round of 8 in Cherry Cup play. And then the Chicanadan National Squad lost in the Round of 8 yesterday 4-3 over in the Cup of Harmony. Add on AS Risa's elimination in the NSFA Cup in the quaterfinals (and ignore Douala's crash in the Semi's over in NSCL) the Kodiaks need to slide into a better streak...and maybe a title.

Day 3
Group A
Starblaydia 3 Kylaai 0
Hypocria 3 South Osettia 2
Group B
Jeruselem 0 Spruitland 3
Funny Looking Islands 0 Vilita 2
Group C
Sarzonia 2 An archy 3
Pacitalia 1 Harbinzia 2
Group D
Nedalia 3 Bedistan 1
Oaker 6 East Lithuania 2
Group A
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Starblaydia 3 3 0 0 9 3 6 9
Hypocria 3 2 0 1 10 8 2 6
Kylaai 3 1 0 2 7 11 -4 3
South Osettia 3 0 0 3 6 10 -4 0
Group B
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Spruitland 3 3 0 0 8 1 7 9
Jeruselem 3 1 1 1 3 3 0 4
Vilita 3 1 0 2 2 4 -2 3
Funny Looking Islands 3 0 1 2 1 6 -5 1
Group C
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Pacitalia 3 2 0 1 8 6 2 6
An archy 3 2 0 1 9 9 0 6
Sarzonia 3 1 0 2 8 7 1 3
Harbinzia 3 1 0 2 6 9 -3 3
Group D
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Nedalia 3 3 0 0 11 5 6 9
Oaker 3 1 1 1 13 12 1 4
Bedistan 3 0 2 1 9 11 -2 2
East Lithuania 3 0 1 2 7 12 -5 1

Under 21 World Cup 16
Top
2nd Round Quarter Finals

Starblaydia (1) ------------
| ----------------------------
An archy -------------------

Spruitland (11) ------------
| ----------------------------
Oaker (16) -----------------

Pacitalia (16) -------------
| ----------------------------
Hypocria (11) --------------

Nedalia (6) ----------------
| ----------------------------
Jeruselem (3) --------------

Jeruselem Government News

Jeruselem face the Lions again, thank the Kitties and Bunnies

Thanks to Vilita who beat Funny Looking Islands 2-0, Jeruselem did make the 2nd round and crashed into the 6th seed Nedalia. JGN are also the foreign broadcasters for the Nedalian Premier League, so Jeruselem and Nedalian fans will not miss out on the game.

This game was rather early and we'd rather play Oaker, which are Spruitland opponents. At stake is a place in the quarter finals and the right to play Pacitalia (16) or Hypocria (11). In fact, we ended up in the finals games where we avoided Starblaydia. If Starblaydia and Spruitland win, then they will clash. Jeruselem's loss to Spruitland was a bless in disguise as we face Nedalia, but lower ranked teams are ahead.

On paper, Jeruselem's results have been less than inspiring but we have made the quarter finals more often than not. If we beat the Lions, watch out.

Group B
Jeruselem 0 Spruitland 3
Funny Looking Islands 0 Vilita 2

Narrow Victory sets up Second Round Showdown


Hypocria 3 - 2 South Osettia
West 9, 20
Burdali 76


The Hyppos went into matchday 3 knowing a win would virtually assure them of their first ever qualification to the second round. The opponents were South Osettia who, despite losing their first two games, still had an outside chance of qualification themselves if they chalked up a big enough win and Starblaydia beat Kylaai in the other game.

Energized by the prospect of a second round place Hypocria came out with all guns blazing and the opening goal was not long in arriving. Captain Marcus Baxter played a long ball forward to Karic who chested the ball down inside the penalty area. A defender slide in the make the challenge but the ball ran to strike partner Danny West who swept the ball home.

The Hyppos were playing with a confidence that was notably absent in their last match and chances were created and spurned. The second goal did duly arrive with twenty minutes on the clock. Golla broke down the right and crossed into the box, Karic headed against the post and West couldn’t miss from the rebound.

With halftime approaching it was easy going until Brazier played a loose back pass which was intercepted by an opposition attacker he ran through to pull a goal back. For the third time in three matches Hypocria had conceded in the dying minutes of the first half.

Proving that confidence is a very fragile thing the Hypocria side that emerged for the second half looked a shadow of that in the first. Passes were misplaced, the chances dried up and South Osettia were getting back into the game. The South Osettia equaliser came just after the hour mark as a corner was swung in, Derevko was blocked by a crowd of players in front of him and the ball was headed in at the far post.

It took a moment of brilliance for the Hyppos to take the lead and ultimately seal the match in the second half. Burdali set off on a mazy run, beating two defenders before playing the ball into West. Despite the striker being on a hat trick he unselfishly laid it off to Burdali, who had continued his fine run, and the midfielder blasted in his third of the competition.

When the final whistle blew the Hyppos took the applause from their fans knowing that they were assured of at least one more match, they had qualified for the second round.


In the other group game Starblaydia completed their clean sweep with a comfortable 3-0 win over Kylaai.



Day 3
Group A
Starblaydia 3 Kylaai 0
Hypocria 3 South Osettia 2




As expected the Starblaydis go through as group winners ahead of Hypocria. Unranked Kylaai finish a creditable third while South Osettia end a disappointing campaign without a single point.


Group A
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Starblaydia 3 3 0 0 9 3 6 9
Hypocria 3 2 0 1 10 8 2 6
Kylaai 3 1 0 2 7 11 -4 3
South Osettia 3 0 0 3 6 10 -4 0

Hyppos fans were keeping an eye on events in group C as new boys An archy gained a shock 3-2 victory over Sarzonia which sends the number 4 seeds crashing out of the tournament. In another surprise result Harbinzia beat 16th seeded Pacitalia 2-1 but still finish bottom of the group.

An archy’s fine performance earns them a second round shot at the joint top seeds Starblaydia while group winners Pacitalia will face the Hyppos in the knockout stages. With Hypocria ranked five places above their second round opponents expectations of a place in the quarter finals are high.

The winner of the Pacitalia/Hypocria tie will face the victor of a fascinating match up between the formidable Nedalian Lions and the equally dangerous 3rd seeded Jerusalem in the quarter final.

Sarzonians sent home

In their worst-ever showing since World Cup VIII, the Sarzonian Under 21 national team saw its streak of knockout stage berths end at seven with a 3-2 loss to An archy that ensured the Junior Stars a third place finish in Group C.

"This is devastating," Coach Valentin Kienzl said. "We never really recovered from that loss to Pacitalia or the loss of Jenna Raven from our midfield. We'll have to come back next time."

The Junior Stars saw what was considered a golden opportunity to hoist their first World Cup trophy end in disappointment because the team didn't take to a more defencive-oriented scheme installed by Kienzl after World Cup XV. Their midfield play was spotty and uneven after Raven's injury in the Pacitalia match, and the team conceded seven goals in three matches, a 2.33 goals against average.

"This isn't time to overreact," Incorporated Football Federation Chairman Terry Mangione said. "We don't have to reinvent the wheel because we missed the knockouts for the first time in eight cups and only the second time ever." Mangione denied rumours that he would fire Kienzl and name himself the Under 21 Coach.

"Valle's done a fine job considering the circumstances," Mangione said. "If he's not back for the next Cup, it will be his doing, not mine."

Kienzl said he told the team to take a month-long holiday from football and "just forget about this result." He also said the team would support Pacitalia in the knockout stages.

"Why wouldn't we," Raven asked. "That play [where she was injured] was just a hard-nosed aggressive play. They're our allies and our friends, so we hope they do well."

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y197/Spruitland/sportsgazette.jpg


Bunnies will face The Oaker Family

With a 6 – 2 win over East Lithuania, Oaker have taken the second spot in their group, earning them a Second Round face-off against Spruitland. While not a total surprise, Bunnies coach Cor Bensen wasn’t particularly pleased with this result.

“I would have preferred East Lithuania,” he said. “And Bedistan even more, but we knew that wasn’t likely. But at least we played East Lith before, and even though we lost, we know we can handle them. Oaker is just… there’s something fishy about them.”

“I’m not gonna comment on the rumors about the Oaker senior squad bribing their way into the World Cup final, though just between you and me, I believe it’s absolutely true,” Bensen went on in a rare moment of frankness. “What disturbs me the most, though, is their genetics.”

“A nation so obviously prone to inbreeding needs some advanced genetic tampering to keep the population somewhat sane. Based on the names they give their children, they’re not succeeding very well though. But if they’re involved in one branch of genetics, it’s logical to assume they’re messing around in other, physical-enhancement areas as well.”

“Still, if nothing goes wrong, we should be able to move on the the Quarters. We’ll be keeping a close eye on the way the match will be refereed, though, and if anything even smells like favoritism, you can bet your ass we’re filing a complaint.”

Oaker’s starting eleven, a quick overview:

Goalkeeper:
Peanut Butter & Jelly Oaker
Not particularly talented (allowed 12 goals in 3 games). Aggressive personality. Uses scare tactics to intimidate forwards. Sensitive about his name (understandable).

Defenders:
Orion, Totten and Dieter Oaker
Nicknamed “The Crappy Cousins”. Spend more time mooning the crowd than paying attention to the play.

Midfield:
Rollee Oaker
Resembles the chubby kid who never got picked to be on a team in gym class, but the Oakers stick up for family, so he made it into the squad.
Kelvin Oaker
Decent midfielder. Enjoys wearing skirts off the field, which has made him pretty fast.
Raven Oaker
Ferocious right winger. Bites chunks out of defenders that come too close (prefers ears). Has been known to poke them in the eye as well.
Trick Oaker
Shrewd left winger. Manages to get away with the dirtiest maneuvers under the referee’s eyes. Specialized in the ‘crotch grab’.

Forwards:
Flam, Zam and Zip Oaker
Three brothers. Flam and Zam are twins, Zip is a year older. They use their physical resemblance to confuse the opposition’s defense. Have been quite effective at it so far (13 goals in 3 games).

Conclusion:
Weak in defense, but an attacking line that – somehow – manages to score easily. If the Bunnies keep their defense well organized and create enough chances, they should be able to handle the Oaker boys.

The Nedalia Lions

Local Rivals Defeated; Jeresulem Awaits


The second match in U21 football between the two neighbors of Bedistan and Nedalia ended in a 2nd straight victory for the Nedalia Lions over their neighbors, and the 4th straight victory of them overall. In all honesty, it didn’t look like the Nedalian squad was challenged much during the match, controlling long stretches of the game and playing surprisingly affective defense. However, due to Jeresulem’s mediocre performance in the group stages, for all their hard work, the Nedalian squad will be rewarded with a 2nd round matchup against the 3rd seeded team coming into the tournament.

“I mean, that’s the way football works, you know. We run through the group stages with relative ease, and we’re rewarded against the team that beat us last tournament, for the right to be named the 5th best team in the tournament,” commented manager Brent Vent.

The actual match with Bedistan, as stated above, was one that was won with relative ease from the Lions. From the minute the whistle blew, the Nedalians made the ball theirs, scoring rather early as well. A bad clearance resulted in the ball ending up with Khalil Jamhurra, whose deadly cross found Dennis Howard’s head en route to the net in the 21st minute. The first half ended up with that 1-0 result, but it could have easily been more for the Lions.

The 2nd half brought similar results for the Lions, with Dennis Howard finding the net for the second time in the game in the 55th minute. A nice buildup from the Nedalian half of the field ended with a blistering shot from the goalscorer from around the penalty marker. Howard was subbed out in the 79th minute to a standing ovation by the Nedalian fans in the stadium.

The final 10 minutes, as usual for a match involving Nedalia, were full of activity, resulting in 2 goals. The first one came in the 84th minute, with a brilliant effort from the Bedistani squad to bring them back within one goal. However, that result was short lived, as just 4 minutes after, Jansen found the net, making the result 3-1 in a Nedalian dominated match.

So now the Lions face what is a daunting task in front them. There is a special footballing relationship between Jeresulem and the Lions; the Jeresulem Government News has exclusive international rights to showcase the Nedalia Premier League, and also show Nedalia Lions matches as well. The stadium will be rocking when the two teams meet for the 2nd time, and the Lions will be hoping for a different result this time around. Manager Brent Vent agrees:

"We came here to advance to the Finals. I wont go as far as saying it would be a disappointment if we dont, but there will always be a sense that we couldve, shouldve if we dont. This is the most talented team we have put forward, and we expect the results to show that. Jeresulem is a highly established team, make no mistake about that. They didnt have the best start to the tournament, but they are a team capable of taking it all. Definitely."

The curse continues; but Pacitalia wins the group

The inability of the Pacitalian U21 side to advance from the round-robin stage with a perfect record continued as the team failed to win all three games, losing the last game, 2-1, to a desperate Harbinzian team that ended up last regardless. However, a 2-goal advantage in the goal differential stats category means that, despite the loss, Pacitalia remains on top in Group C and wins it.

The day was full of plenty of surprises outside the Pacitalia-Harbinzia match, with Sarzonia losing for a second time by the same 3-2 score to non-seeded, seemingly formidable An archy, who with the win squeezed through to the second round. The other surprise was the 2-0 win by Vilita which still did not reward them with a trip past the round-robins. This cup has been full of so-called "Power Teams" that were denied a shot. Sarzonia, Vilita and Bedistan are three of those teams from the first half of MD3 that are not continuing on. We're yet to see which Power Teams from Groups E-H will not continue through.

As for the Power Teams that did make it through, those being Pacitalia, Starblaydia, Spruitland, Jeruselem and Nedalia, they can all expect tough competition in the days to come. There are, of course, other teams that aren't considered Power Teams yet, but will pose a formidable challenge, like Hypocria and Oaker.

The top seeded Starblaydia is expected, overall, to meet Fmjphoenix in the final of what may turn out to be one of the most exciting U21 cups in a long time. I'm Michelo Obranto for PNN.

Group E
Hockey Canada 1 Kassyyk 0
Krytenia 1 Druida 4
Group F
Fmjphoenix 4 Cockbill Street 2
Vtorbetin 4 Fimble loving peoples 6
Group G
Rejistania 0 Liverpool England 0
Oglethorpia 3 Kzuu Mai 3
Group H
Chicanada 1 Crystilakere 1
Paul Sculthorpe fans 0 Gaian Ascendancy 4
Group E
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Hockey Canada 3 3 0 0 5 0 5 9
Kassyyk 3 1 1 1 8 5 3 4
Druida 3 1 1 1 7 7 0 4
Krytenia 3 0 0 3 2 10 -8 0
Group F
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Fmjphoenix 3 3 0 0 13 4 9 9
Cockbill Street 3 2 0 1 15 14 1 6
Fimble loving peoples 3 1 0 2 11 15 -4 3
Vtorbetin 3 0 0 3 11 17 -6 0
Group G
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Oglethorpia 3 1 2 0 8 6 2 5
Liverpool England 3 1 1 1 6 7 -1 4
Rejistania 3 0 3 0 0 0 0 3
Kzuu Mai 3 0 2 1 5 6 -1 2
Group H
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Chicanada 3 2 1 0 8 6 2 7
Crystilakere 3 1 2 0 3 2 1 5
Gaian Ascendancy 3 1 1 1 8 5 3 4
Paul Sculthorpe fans 3 0 0 3 2 8 -6 0
Under 21 World Cup 16
Bottom
2nd Round Quarter Finals

Hockey Canada (5) ----------
| ----------------------------
Liverpool England ----------

Fmjphoenix (1) -------------
| ----------------------------
Crystilakere (10) ----------

Oglethorpia ----------------
| ----------------------------
Kassyyk --------------------

Chicanada (7) --------------
| ----------------------------
Cockbill Street (15) -------
[500 Sim Test]
Name Chance to Win
Starblaydia 25.2%
Fmjphoenix 17.0%
Hockey Canada 15.8%
Jeruselem 12.4%
Chicanada 8.6%
Spruitland 5.0%
Hypocria 4.4%
Nedalia 4.0%
Crystilakere 2.4%
Cockbill Street 2.4%
Pacitalia 1.6%
Oaker 0.8%
Kassyyk 0.4%
Liverpool England 0.0%
Oglethorpia 0.0%
An archy 0.0%

~ Not... good... ~


Group H:
MD1 - D
Crystilakere v. Gaian Ascendancy (1 - 1)
MD2 - L
Gaian Ascendancy v. Chicanada (3 - 4)
MD3 - W
Paul Sculthorpe fans v. Gaian Ascendancy (0 - 4)


GANN Sports Desk: ~ "Maybe it will be twenty or thirty tries, we don't know. But if there was any idea that the seeding was meant to keep us down, they failed. We're still proud of this squad no matter what happens.

One day it'll all bear fruit. We're not done by a long shot."

The U21 Campaign ends with yet another early out, and Gaians are wondering if the tourney is structured fairly, considering the U21 squad is not improving by all accounts, if this result is any indication.

The victory over Paul Sculthorpe was too little and too late, despite having the best goal for to away ratio in the group, they fell one point short due to yet 'another' top team foul up to their chances.

"Nothing against Chicanada or anything, but there has to be something about a ranking system that seems to put young teams down. It just doesn't feel right for some reason. But of course if we get to that level, the mirror will reflect back in our eyes.

Course... got no idea 'if' we'll get there at this rate." A dejected Freeze Kerensky commented to holo-reporters. Despite the ration, the point below the qualifying mark was simply something that irked Gaians that kept track, even despite the events going on in their regular world.

But the focus will have to be the next Cup... and the next... and the next... and the.. yes, broken record.

We're not going anywhere for the short term. The odds are though, that the Gaians will be penalized in rankings once more, which is where the big irk comes in.

"Sure.. felt like a 14th ranked, but we didn't get seeded from a fairness standpoint. Felt more like 104th." Ortho Masaki summed up.

Shitty End Predicted By Mad Doctor

Whilst none of us were expecting the team of amateur players to make it into the next stage of the competition, not many would have expected such a harsh and undeserved end to the tournament as was witnessed here.

Yes, with the likes of Hockey Canada and Nedalia laughing behind their backs, the team got on the plane home feeling dejected and cheated of even a single point, as the Fimble loving peoples did all that was in their power to ensure that the newcomers knew that they were crap, and would remain crap for the foreseeable future. Let’s face it – no-one likes it when the new boy does well. Was it just to make everybody else feel better about themselves, or were the Vtorbetites really that bad?

According to coach Joshua Wilhite, the three defeats were written in the stars…or something like that anyway:

“Well look at the names of all the competitors in our group. What do you notice? All the team names contain at least one ‘e’, one ‘o’ and one ‘i’. We all shared three vowels, and that’s why we lost all our games. It says so right here in ‘Why Is My Team So Crap?’ by Dr. Hermann Klipper. See – should all teams in a group share three vowels in their names, the lowest ranked team will lose all their games, even if they’re not the worst team, and in fact are almost undoubtedly the better side in the majority of their games. So you see I’m not mad at all! Bibble, bibble, bibble!”

Being rather sceptical about this information, we decided to talk to Dr. Klipper himself:

“Ah yes, well you see, after studying a number of very shitty teams…Ravea, for example…I began to see a pattern forming. I noticed the three vowel thing, so I took it to the League Of Professional Psychiatrists and they agreed with me. And before you ask, the reports that I snuck a little mercury into their water jug are preposterous!”

Upon asking him why the rule doesn’t hold true for Groups A, E and H, he said:

“Ah well those are exceptions to the rule. You see, South Osettia is a special case, because it holds all five vowels in its name. That means that it always does badly regardless of rank, participation, training, et cetera. Krytenia begins with a ‘k’ and ends in 'a', so it will do badly only when there can be seen sunspots. And Paul Sculthorpe Fans? Well…they’re just crap.”

So with this newfound knowledge, we can now say with a little more confidence that Vtorbetin will be back, bigger and better than ever next time, and looking to score some major points, maybe even reach the second stage. One thing’s for certain – after this tournament, the Vtorbetites will be looking for revenge.

Final Score

Vtorbetin 4 Ingalls 18, 29, Balderas 57, Struble 73
Fimble loving peoples 6 who cares?

Current football record

P W D L F A +/-
3 0 0 3 11 17 -6

Upon learning that Hypocria has just a 4.4% chance of lifting the trophy senior members of the Football Association have demanded a second opinion.

“We have recently heard about a noted ‘expert’, a Dr Klipper of Vtorbetin who can predict how well a team will do.” Said aged board member Archibald Cutts. “I am sure he can provide a prediction that is more accurate then that provided by those strange word boxes the kids are using nowadays. And what the blazes is this interweb I keep hearing about?”

Reporter: "What is your comment about this early exit?"
Kansu Lyku: "You might consider this a failure, it is not!"
Reporter: "How so?"
Kansu Lyku: "We were undefeated! We did not lose a single match, we did not concede a single goal!"
Reporter: "Your team did not score a single goal too!"
Kansu Lyku: "Details!"
Reporter: "So you were eliminated due to 'details'?"
Kansu Lyku: "Exactly! It is a shame that our team could not capitalize the chances it had, they were lacking experience. The rejistanian youth program is not as good as it was years ago. the restructuring of our nation means that currently, our capabilities are limited."
Reporter: "You sound like a politician!"
Kansu Lyku: "I hope this is a compliment, but I will not go into politics because I feel I can do more for the country in this position!"
Reporter: "Do you believe you will remain in this position?"
Kansu Lyku: "The monks were satisfied with me! And if our youth programs are better again, we will surely advance!"

After receiving a request in a stamp addressed envelope from Hypocrian FA Board member Archibald Cutts (and after withdrawing the fee of one hundred thousand colugo from the Hypocrian FA's bank account), Dr. Hermann Klipper had this to say:

"Ah yes, Group A provides us with some interesting results. You see, this group contains the cursed five-vowel nation of South Osettia. Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on which nation you are, as we shall see in a minute, for the other members of the group, the curse does not only affect the carrier nation. You see, if you play the cursed team, and you do not beat them by a margin of two goals, a small part of the curse transfers itself onto you. On the other hand, if you do manage to beat them by two goals, your luck improves drastically. So if we look at how things turned out, Starblaydia beat South Osettia 3-1, thus meaning they achieve the two-goal margin and so are now, sure enough, the favourites to win the tournament. Hypocria, on the other hand, won by only one goal, and thus their chances of winning have been drastically reduced to a mere 4.4%. Had they been placed in another group, and achived the same set of results, they could well have had a 16.7% chance of winning. Hypocrians should not despair though, for there is a way to reverse the effects of the curse. All the players must dress in ancient bamboo outfits, form a circle around a bonfire and pay homage to the moon between the hours of 1200 and 1300. They must then, one at a time, jump into the fire. If they come out of the fire unscathed, then they have been lifted of the curse. If they do not...well...they die, so it really won't matter whether you're cursed or not."

After a minute of coughing and spluttering, the doctor continued:

"Legend has it that once the curse has been passed on, the carrier nation will be no more, so that it can no longer affect the other nations of the world. The world will then be safe until another cursed five-vowel nation comes along."

Once he had finished, Dr. Klipper jumped into a vat of boiling water, chanting some strange phrase over and over again. Quite miraculously he turned into a fish and started tap dancing at the bottom of the container, at which point we left.

“So you see that is all we have to do to reverse the curse.” Cutts finished.

FA Chief Alex Scott sighed, that was twenty minutes of his life he would never get back. “Bamboo outfits? Paying homage to the moon? A vowel curse? Well I’m glad to see you’ve been spending your time creatively.”

“But he is a doctor you know, a genuine doctor and he predicted his own country's performance correctly.”

“They were in their first tournament, in the same group as the champions and they don’t even have a professional league. I could have predicted that.”

“But you will do what he said won’t you? We need to get rid of that curse.”

“You want me to set fire to the national Under-21 squad?”

“And pay homage to the moon.”

“At 1:00 in the afternoon?”

“Yes.”

“Get out of my office.”

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y197/Spruitland/sportsgazette.jpg


Bunnies chop Oaker!

Spruitland – Oaker: 2 – 1

The Spruitland Bunnies’ streak continues with a 2 – 1 victory over the Oaker Sharks and they move on to the Quarter Finals. The win did not come easy, though, and the game was not without controversial referee decisions.

Spruitland started with the same eleven that had started against Jeruselem, goalkeeper Simon Briers included. Briers, only conceding one goal in the group stage of the tournament, would play a major role in the first half of the game.

Both teams started the match tentatively, but that stage didn’t last long, and it quickly became clear that Oaker planned on using every trick in their arsenal to gain an advantage. Trick Oaker, in particular, used his trademarked ‘crotch grab’ several times to skip past Stan Hondts on the left side and create scoring opportunities, but luckily Briers was thoroughly awake.

Frustration among the Bunnies steadily grew as the referee stoically ignored their appeals, and when right winger Raven Oaker blatantly bit Detlef Weber’s shoulder without as much as getting a warning, Spruitland coach Cor Bensen used his full lung capacity to make his dissatisfaction known.

But the charade was only just getting started. When one of the Oaker brothers went down in the penalty area, apparently struck by a sudden gust of wind, the referee didn’t hesitate and put the ball on the spot, despite ferocious protests from the Spruitlanders, both on and off the field.

Zip Oaker stepped up and tried to put the ball in the bottom right corner, but Simon Briers stretched just wide enough to make a magnificent save and pushed the ball into a corner kick. Briers’ pumping fist towards a grinning Cor Bensen near the sideline, followed by an arrogant frown in the referee’s direction, would turn out to be the image of the match.

But not before, not five minutes after the first, the referee awarded Oaker a second penalty, for an unknown reason, as no Oaker player even went down this time. Again, protests had no effect, and Cor Bensen literally tore the dugout apart in frustration. This time Zip Oaker did not miss, and the Bunnies were trailing in a match for the first time in the tournament.

But the first half had apparently not been a big enough insult to sportsmanship yet. After Raven Oaker had sunk his teeth into Detlef Weber’s elbow for the umpteenth time and this time broke the skin, forward Juri Kocarov had enough. A brief shoving match ensued, resulting in Raven Oaker biting a sizeable chunk out of Kocarov’s ear.

As blood gushed all over the pitch, referee intervention seemed unavoidable this time, but much to the astonishment of everybody in the stadium, the man in black showed both Kocarov and Raven Oaker the yellow card. It took the whole Spruitland bench to keep Cor Bensen from storming onto the field.

It’s not exactly clear what happened down in the catacombs during half time, but the referee’s strongly improved vision in the second half – despite a nastily closed up right eye – points our suspicion in a certain direction. Cor Bensen refused to comment on the referee’s sudden change of heart, and all the man himself had to say after the match was that he “bumped into a door.”

Regardless, the second half went a lot smoother for the Bunnies. At times a bit too smooth, in fact, since the penalty they received in the 52nd minute smelled a lot like compensation, Dirk Jools being a full meter out of the box when he was tackled to the ground. But Jools didn’t take it to heart and converted the penalty himself. 1 – 1, and every Spruitlander let out a sigh of relief.

When both Raven Oaker and Trick Oaker received red cards for their continued rambunctious behavior, things were looking even better for Spruitland. Deprived of most of their attacking strength, the Oaker boys had to limit themselves to defending their draw, but it was only a matter of time before the Bunnies broke through to take the lead.

Chico Provoost scored his third of the tournament 15 minutes before full time to give Spruitland a place in the Quarter Finals. Provoost even scored with his foot for the first time, shooting the ball at goal from a tight angle with enough power to make it slip through Peanut Butter & Jelly’s hands.

But despite the importance of their goals, both Provoost and Jools were largely ignored after the game, as most of the press coverage focused on the antics of the referee, with his mysterious reversal of attitude after the mid-time break. Bunnies coach Cor Bensen refused to make any specific comments, but he did indicate that it was unlikely Spruitland would be requesting an official investigation.

“Things worked out alright in the end,” he said. “I’d rather we just drop the matter and focus on the next round. That’s much more important right now.”

“Sometimes it’s better to just handle things man to man,” Bensen also added, closing the subject with a little wink.

The Quarter Finals are up next, and it seems highly probable Spruitland will face Starblaydia – unless unranked An Archy manage to pull off the stunt of the tournament by sending the number one seeds home early.

“I wouldn’t hold my breath,” Bensen smiled. “Granted, they sent Sarzonia packing, and that’s a helluva stunt in itself. But the Sarzonia team was already shaken up, and the An Archists’ total lack of any recognizable system just took the Stars by surprise. But I don’t see the same happening to Starblaydia.”

By meeting Starblaydia in the Quarter Finals, the Bunnies will get a chance at revenge for the opening match of the Under-21 World Cup 15, where Spruitland lost 2 – 0 in their very first international game. Being a full 10 ranks lower, the odds are still against the Bunnies, but motivation is high.

“I repeat, we’re going to the Semis,” Dirk Jools said. “These Starblaydis are seriously over-rated. They’ve gotten lucky a few times in the past, so they managed to hang on to their high ranking. But their term is just about up. It’s time someone puts them in their place.”

Spruitland – Oaker: 2 – 1
0 – 1 Oaker (pen. 35’)
1 – 1 Jools (pen. 53’)
2 – 1 Provoost (76’)

It is rather difficult to find a pilot, who does not protest when he has to fly into Rejistania. The va'karela'ny at the airports make sure that visitors in the country are no danger for public security and so pilots who come from Rejistania are always feeling strangely defensively and risk-aware for a while. Because it is that difficult to find a pilot, the Rejistanian U21 had to stay a night in the Insanician hotel before they can fly home. The team was in the hotel and was preparing for the night, when suddenly the lights went out, the TVs went black and the radios silent. The hotel was experiencing a powercut. For the team, it was a bad experience because the 'mood-lights' went black and they suddenly drifted out of their normal way of feeling. Especially the strikers, who are so attack-minded that even va'karela'ny can not filter it out completely, suddenly felt very unsatisfied with the last matches. Aehi Iuesta went to Kansu Lyku's room and started shouting at him about the slani tactics, which were used in this cup. Inkatil Hisiril and Takil Manik joined in. Lyku Kansu tried to use a battery-powqered va'karela against them, but their attack mindedness leeched the battery empty within minutes. Kansu Lyku listened to it for a while and then said a sentence in a quiet voice, which mad them fall silent and excused. It was not-understandable for the magical camera of RP what he said, but it seemed to be aggressive.

Kansu Lyku told this problem later the temple of Karela, where people were severely worried about it. The priests saw that this powercut had severe effects and that a method to karelize based only on electricity is too risky. A new method is needed and the temple tries its best to make one: The temple sends messages, encrypted in formal rejistanian, to different corporations in Rejistania and abroad, they also heard of the 'Spruits' and so contacted the ministry of Import/Export in Spruitland. What the temple wants is clear: a method to karelize people without the dependency on electricity. The rejistanians need this method and so they are willing to pay much for it.

Second Round TGed, sorry about the delay.

Current Seedings
1 Hockey Canada
2 Fmjphoenix
3 Nedalia
4 Spruitland
5 Starblaydia
6 Hypocria
7 Jeruselem
8 Sarzonia
9 Pacitalia
10 Rejistania
11 Vtorbetin
12 Chicanada
13 East Lithuania
14 Gaian Ascendancy
15 Cockbill Street
16 Crystilakere
17 Kassyyk
18 Oglethorpia
19 Oaker
20 Liverpool England
21 Bedistan
22 Atlantis of Vilita

they also heard of the 'Spruits' and so contacted the ministry of Import/Export in Spruitland. What the temple wants is clear: a method to karelize people without the dependency on electricity. The rejistanians need this method and so they are willing to pay much for it.

Hi there, priests!

Gosh, how exciting that you heard about our Spruits™ all the way over there in Rejistania!
I’ve contacted Spruit Inc, the company that produces the Spruits™, and they assured me it’s no problem at all to make your modifications and stuff. Isn’t that marvelous!?
Guess we’ll be doing some major importing/exporting soon, huh?
Anyways, so yeah. I’m not sure when they’ll be done with it and stuff, but I’ll be sure to keep you, like, informed and all.

Hugs,

Suzanne Peeters
Minister of Import/Export
Spruitland



After Suzanne sent the message, she started flipping through her Rolodex for the card of Spruit Inc. Naturally, she hadn’t contacted them yet, like she had mentioned in her message to Rejistania. Suzanne found she worked best if she focused on one thing at a time. And those modifications seemed pretty simple, so that shouldn’t be a problem.

After the necessary secretarial delays, she got Miguel Schuyler, Spruit Inc’s CEO, on the line.

“Miguel darlin’! It’s Suzanne! Golly, have I got exciting news for you! The priests of Rejistanialand want you to make Spruits™ with caramel taste and stuff! For top cash, too! I’m forwarding you the message right now.”


Miguel Schuyler bit his tongue as he listened to the Minister’s babbling. Damn, that woman annoyed him. It was pretty obvious she had gone down on some top politicians to get appointed Minister of Import and Export. How he had ever ended up naked under his desk with her after that Christmas party, a few years back, he still did not know.

And why the hell was she so excited about doing business with those Rejistanis? Nevermind that Spruitland was officially on reasonably friendly terms with them now, that wasn’t the same thing as trusting them.

Then again, making caramel-flavored Spruits™ sounded easy and innocent enough, he thought, as he opened the forwarded email. Why on earth they were willing to pay a load of money for caram – Bloody hell! That stupid cow!


A brief but fierce conversation between the Minister of Import/Export and the CEO of Spruit Inc ensued.

After some initial cursing, the CEO patiently explained what it was the Rejistanis actually had requested.

The Minister’s reaction was “Oh.”, after which she explained she had already promised the Rejistanis results and stuff.

The CEO cursed some more, with considerably more vigor, then refused to work on such an immoral order.

The Minister reminded the CEO about the Christmas party a few years back, and about the CEO’s wife and stuff.

The CEO cursed for several more minutes, quite loudly, after which he laughed hartily and cheerfully explained to the Minister that Spruit Inc did not have the technical expertise for the job, since they only produced the Spruits™, and the one that had invented, patented and developed them was King Alfons I himself, in his bio-engineering days. So take it up with him, you stupid squaw!

After which the CEO threw down the phone and left the Minister sitting at her desk quite pale-like, and stuff.


And so Suzanne Peeters contacted the Prime Minister, who saw himself forced – for reasons he didn’t much care to think about – to take it up with His Majesty himself.

And as it happened, King Alfons had just been playing tic-tac-toe with one of his courtesans for the past three hours and was getting a bit bored because the game kept ending undecided, so His Majesty shrugged and said “Sure, I’ll give it a go.”

“I’ll need a highschool chemistry set, a large pepperoni pizza, and a massage,” he also said. “Oh, and one of those karela-devices.”

And so Suzanne Peeters had to write another message to the Rejistanis.


Hiya priests, me again!

I’m happy to inform you that our top scientist is working on the problem: King Alfons I himself! He’s like really smart and stuff! That’s why he is the king and all. So don’t you worry, we’ll get this thing figured out in no time.
Could you send us one of those karamel devices though, to help speed things along and stuff?
That’d be great!

Thanks muchly!

Suzanne Peeters

Kassyyk and Liverpool England both shutout as Hockey Canada- 15.8% chance of winning causes riots of joy.

If there was any doubt that no one, not even Hockey Canada could expect to shut out every team in the U21WC so far, it would come from Hockey Canada first. The Canucks battled hard to face Kassyyk to clinch 1st place in Group E and didn't disappoint. The lone goal scored by Mike Ko giving him 4 in the tournement. The goal was scored at the 48th minute mark when a free kick was awarded 31 yards out. A light tap from Oscar Alba and a hard blast from Ko into the far left corner was all needed to send Kassyyk biting their nails to find out the score of the Druida-Krytenia game.

The Liverpool England game was a whole other story. Excellent play by Liverpool England forced defenders and Kyle Thomas to keep the Goals Against tally at 0. A yellow card by Michael Feznak in the penalty area was the last thing the Canucks needed in the round-of-16 game. The penalty kick didn't phase Kyle Thomas who was having the tournement of his life as he dove to the right side catching the ball just inches over the the goal line.

Rahul Kulkarni finally lived up to expectations of remarkable speed in the 79th minute when he broke away from the last Liverpool England defender and got a shot off. It seemed meant to be as the keeper made an excellent dive but didn't succeed as Kulkarni made the game 1-0 with a flick shot to the left. Liverpool England nearly tied it up in the 90th minute with a free kick 20 yards out from the net. Thomas misplayed the ball thinking it was going much lower when the ball sailed a few feet over the top right corner.

The Canucks shook hands with the Liverpool England players, hoping for a rematch against them next U21WC. When it was released that Hockey Canada has a 15.8 percent chance of winning in Total n Utter Insanity, an orgy of drinking and partying broke out all over the arctic nation. A nation which has only seen grass on their own soccer fields. The capital (Otnorot) declared the next week a national holiday so the entire nation could watch the next game(s) for the Canucks.

The riots about the 15.8 percent chance of winning wasn't just all. When the current seedings displayed Hockey Canada at number 1 in the world at Under 21 soccer. This released during the massive party only raised the level of beer and jubulant celebrations in Hockey Canada. Hockey Canada is on top of the world- both literally and figuratively.

Current Seedings
1 Hockey Canada
2 Fmjphoenix
3 Nedalia

Hockey Canada- 1
Ko (48)

Kassyyk- 0


Hockey Canada- 1
Kulkarni (79)

Liverpool England- 0

The Nedalia Lions

Lions Avenge Defeat; Advance to Quarters


Overcoming a one goal deficit in the final minutes of the 2nd half, the Lions exacted their revenge on Jeresulem, stretching the match all the way to penalties, where Man of the Match, 19 year old Strundanne goalkeeper Hard Dans, showed why he was given the title, saving 2 shots that advanced the Nedalian squad to the quarter-finals. Revenge was sweet for the Lions squad, with most of the players having played in U21 World Cup 15.

The match itself was as even an affair as one could ask for. Tactics and strategy, not known to be one of Nedalia’s strong points, were the call of the day, and manager Brent Vent answered the challenge. The Jeresulem squad took the lead early in the 2nd half after a cracking 1st half, and it was not until the 86th minute that the Nedalians found a way to crack the defense and equalize the match, through striker Lumiere.

Extra-time brought more of the same, with a tactical approach from both teams, the game continued to be a stalemate. It took those penalties to decide who would advance, and the Nedalians, some who are playing in their third U21 World Cup, showed their experience and composure. They scored all 4 of their goals, but that wouldn’t have meant anything if it wasn’t for the heroics of goalkeeper Hard Dans.

Not only did he save Jeresulem’s last two penalties shots, but he had to come up big on much more than one occasion against the team during regular time. A magnificent save in the 31st minute denied the opposition a goal, and a diving, impossible reach for the ball tapped away what would have surely been the winning goal in the 79th minute. We caught up with Hard Dans after the match:

“I’m just glad I was able to keep my team in the game long enough to get that goal. As for the penalties, everyone knows its about luck. You pick a spot and hopefully the shooter will kick it in that direction. I guess luck was on my side this time around, and I was able to save the last two shots. It feels good, you know. We’re headed to the quarter-finals now, and hopefully we can keep this up. We overcame one of the best teams in this thing, so if we can beat them, we should be able to beat anybody.”

Manager Brent Vent, however, did not share the same sentiment as his star goalkeeper.

“It concerns me that we struggle to score against the better teams that we face. Its no secret that we live off of our offense, and when we cant find the net till late in the game, then it’s a problem. Thankfully, Hard Dans came up big for us and our defense did a fantastic job as well, but we have the ability to score more goals, and we need it. Our offense has to be one of the most talented available in the tournament, but we have to start showing it off. That’s our bread and butter. Ive tried explaining to the team that this is only the second round. If they think its going to get any easier from here, then that’s a sad mistake. We are facing the winner of the Pacitalia vs. Hypocria match next, and the winner of that game faces either Spruitland or finalist Starblaydia. There is a very hard, very long road ahead. We need to be prepared.”

With both Pacitalia and Hypocria named by the Nedalian media as teams capable of taking it all, it will not be an easy battle for the Lions. Their offense, as the manager said, has to perform better. Both team will show no more mercy, and they have more than proven they can take on experienced teams and win. Pacitalia defeated Sarzonia and Hypocria were able to stand neck and neck with a talented Starblaydian side.

The Lions are aware that they are one of the favorites to take the trophy, but they must show the flair and attacking edge they featured in the group stages. At times against Jeresulem, they looked lost and in awe. This cannot continue to happen. The scouting reports have named Nedalia one of the most talented team in the tournament; now they have to get that swagger that tells that world that they are. Till then, they will continue to be a quarter-finalist team.

Junior Vikings take 12th straight, play Hockey Canada to move to semis, break club record

The match against Crystilakere was nothing special. 2-0 victory moved the Junior Vikings up another notch closer to a repeat defense and one win away from breaking the club record for consecutive victories. Right now, the one thing standing in their way is Hockey Canada. They defeated Liverpool Endland 1-0 and are on their way up in the rankings.

"It will not be the easiest matchup, nor will it be the hardest. Rankings and the past may run in our favor, but it does not mean everything is solid. We will have to play our best to move on and show why we are a number 1 team and champions." Were the words of coach George Rush.

Goalscorers from the Crystilakere match were Arien Vogel and Brian Dougoog, both coming in the second half. It will be up to all four of the Junior Vikings primary scorers to ensure that they move on to the semi-finals. Look for an exciting and fun match.

The high priests read the first letter and murmurred words about lacking drug control in Spruitland. That person seemed to be high as the clouds. Of course they did not comment to others because they do not need to know. When the second post reached the temple, the mood changed from slightly annoyed about the tone to mayorly annoyed: "karamel-device" annoyed the priests royally. Unfortunately, the clergy depend on them to make the karelizing method, which does not need electricity, so they had to overcome their anger and react from a position of kansu, as the inikresaism preaches anyways. Due to that, the priests just sigh and send a packet with different va'karela'ny and a concise documentation to the ministry. The letter following it was also concise:

Hejida Peeters'he!

In this packet are three different va'karela'ny for different intensities. The small white one is a simple va'karela, which is often used against strikers. It's most effective if it influences people at night since it takes time to be effective. The beige orb is a va'karela as used in stadia to neutralize evil tactical orders as 4-4-2. The third one is good to karelize larger groups of people, but it needs too much energy to be used effectively. However they were of great use in the karelan revolution. Sa ven ji va'il veka,

High priest Haxada
First lentine of Rejistania

Kienzl resigns, Junior Stars scramble

Just days after Incorporated Football Federation Chairman Terry Mangione said Sarzonian Under 21 national team Coach Valentin Kienzl's job was safe despite the team's failure to advance to the knockout stages for only the second time in team history, Kienzl announced he was stepping down as the team's coach.

"I just decided that I could no longer deal with the pressure of being the manager of this side," Kienzl said. "I'm concerned that we're heading in the wrong direction as a football programme after this World Cup."

Kienzl steps down after leading the Junior Stars to a third place finish in World Cup XV, but they couldn't come close to replicating their previous success under Coach Cal Trottier. Mangione said he tried to convince Kienzl to stay on.

"I told Valle that it wasn't his fault the team failed. I told him we went 0-0-3 in my last year as head coach but he said he had his mind made up. I just couldn't convince him to give it another go."

Mangione said the team is accepting applications for the vacant coaching position and denied reports that Trottier would come out of retirement to coach the team.

"Cal said he wasn't going to come out of retirement," Mangione said. "We're going to need someone to get us going in a positive direction and possibly to the next level." Team officials said the team is looking for someone to bring a balance between Sarzonia's tradition of playing attack-oriented football and defence.

"We don't want to play a system karela," Mangione said. "That said, we're not going to play with two backliners and six forwards. We need someone to give us a good balance of both, preferrably from a 4-4-2 formation."

Revenge is a dish best served cold- but for Arctic Hockey Canada... FROZEN!

It's not some big climactic final featuring 2 teams killing each oher for a win, it's a game with one defending champion and another seeking revenge for the knockout 2 years ago. The Canucks have learned from the last U21WC not to cover just one or two players to win, but the whole team. Arien Vogel and Brian Dougoog are the 2 players to watch for the Junior Stars, just like the Chen and Vogel 2 years ago. But seeing how the Canucks made an appearance in 5th this year, they're going to play to win and keep dignity they lost last cup.

Call it what you want- revenge, animus, attack, avengement, avenging, counterblow, counterinsurgency, counterplay, getting even, ill will, implacability, malevolence, rancor, repayment, reprisal, requital, retribution, return, ruthlessness, satisfaction, sortie, spitefulness, vengeance, vengefulness, vindictiveness. Hey, we've got a whole thesaurus on the word. The Canucks will focus on beating the Junior Vikings just so they can have an Under 21 World Cup Championship. The first international championship Hockey Canada could ever win.

"We've been here and farther before." Coach Toe Blake said in an interview. "Fmjphoenix may complicate things."

The Canucks are resting up for their game tomorrow, seeing as how they've worked and practised hard for days on end. Rest up Hockey Canada, because you'll need all the energy you have to beat Fmjphoenix.

Hypocrium 12:07 pm

An elderly gentleman wearing a bamboo outfit paces around a bonfire. He mutters something about a curse before throwing himself into the flames. It is not a pretty sight. Seemed to do the trick though . . .



Bring on The Lions

Hypocria 3 - 2 Pacitalia
Karic 23
Baxter 49
West 80

In a match that could so easily gone either way Hypocria booked a quarter final meeting with the Lions of Nedalia.

It was a match that swung one way and then the other. Hypocria twice took the lead through Karic and Baxter, Pacitalia twice equalised. It took a Danny West strike 10 minutes from full time to seal the win and send the Hyppos into their first ever quarter final.

The Atlantian nations are showing their class in the top half of the draw with Hypocria facing Nedalia in one quarter final and, baring a huge upset, Starblaydia should face Spruitland in the other.

And what of the Hyppos chances? Assistant coach Matthias DiMarco had this to say,

“It should be a cracking match between two attacking teams. Our defence has looked pretty shaky in the tournament so far and Nedalia are not known for their defending so I think it is fair to say there will be goals. We will just be looking to score one goal more than the Lions.”

Will Hypocria be triumphant? Will the Lions roar again? Stay tuned.

Hejida Peeters'he!

In this packet are three different va'karela'ny for different intensities. The small white one is a simple va'karela, which is often used against strikers. It's most effective if it influences people at night since it takes time to be effective. The beige orb is a va'karela as used in stadia to neutralize evil tactical orders as 4-4-2. The third one is good to karelize larger groups of people, but it needs too much energy to be used effectively. However they were of great use in the karelan revolution. Sa ven ji va'il veka,

High priest Haxada
First lentine of Rejistania


Prime Minister Jeremy Dekkers hesitated in front of the door to King Alfons’ living quarters, and sighed. He really didn’t want to disturb His Majesty when he was in one of his “crazy scientist” modes. That could be really bad for your health.

But he didn’t have a lot of choice, really. Those crazy Rejistani priests had been bugging Suzanne about their karela-drug, so Suzanne had been bugging Jeremy. And every time she bugged him, she made sure to remind him of that limousine ride after some convention last year, when his wife had stayed at home.

He’d been able to stall until now, but she was getting increasingly ‘convincing’ in her arguments to try and speed things along. And King Alfons had locked himself in his chambers for the last two weeks. If he’s been doing another Twister-marathon with one of his courtesans and forgot all about this drug-thing, I’m staging a coup, Dekkers thought.

He reminded himself never to shag another politician ever again, and knocked on the door. He waited a few seconds, but since there was no answer, he knocked a second time, slightly more urgent.

“Go away!” came the King’s response from inside.

“Your Majesty? It’s the Prime Minister! Just checking up on your progress on – “

The door swung open. King Alfons jumped out, wearing his pijamas, and poked a broomstick into the Prime Minister’s ribs.

“Get away from here, you evil Takilan! You’re not welcome here! I will defend these chambers to the last man if I have to, without regard for how dirty my Royal Pijamas might get! Get away or I’ll poke you in the eye! See if I don’t!”

The Prime Minister slowly backed away from His Majesty and the Royal Broomstick. It wasn’t unusal for the King to be struck by random paranoia attacks, but this seemed a lot more severe than normal. He kept backing away until King Alfons disappeared into his chambers again, and then quickly sounded a Code 4-20.

Within seconds, a colorless and odorless, highly anesthetic gas was pumped into the Royal Chambers and a security team appeared by the Prime Minister’s side. He waited a few minutes, punched in the order to pump the gas out of the chambers again, waited a bit more, and then gave the team the go-ahead.

He followed them inside. They had tickling rods and a large net ready, but it was merely a precaution. King Alfons was sprawled on the floor, unconscious, behind a barracade constructed with empty pizza boxes. The clutter of chemicals, petri dishes and assorted ingredients that could just as well have been part of a large scale voodoo-ritual made it clear that His Majesty had indeed been working on the problem. That’s something at least, Jeremy thought. Even though the clear signs of various small explosions weren’t exactly an encouraging sign.

“Turn that light off!” he said suddenly, pointing at a small orb-shaped device on His Majesty’s desk. One of the security guards quickly complied. Thank god it was the small one, the one that didn’t have an immediate effect. No wonder the Royal Paranoia had gone off the scale.


After a good night’s sleep and a large pepperoni pizza for breakfast, King Alfons looked a lot better. The Prime Minister waited patiently until His Majesty had wiped his mouth and tossed the empty pizza box under the bed.

“The Rejistanis are wondering when they can expect their Karela-drug, Your Highness.”

“Are they now? Well, Prime Minister, tell them science is like an orgasm. If you rush it, you’ll immediately regret it. Tell them I’ll need a few more years or so, that should do.”

“Years!?! But Your Highness! They’re already getting mighty impatient! I was hoping you’d be much further along.”

“Well, I’m almost done, actually. But clients are like women. Always keep them waiting, it makes them feel less important, and that can only be a good thing.”

The Prime Minister did his best to ignore the idiotic Royal Metaphors and tried to focus on the good news. Then again, “almost done” could mean pretty much anything, in His Majesty’s case.

“Could His Majesty perhaps be a little more specific as to when the Rejistanis could expect some results? Just so we can keep them off our backs, you know.”

“Impossible!” King Alfons said sternly. “The final tweaking is always the tricky and unpredictable part. The Karela-Spruits actually do what they’re supposed to do, but there are still some side effects that need dealing with.”

“Side effects? Your Highness, I sincerely respect His Majesty’s professional perfectionism,” the Prime Minister said with a slight bow, “but if these side effects don’t diminish the karelan effect, and they’re not immediately lethal, on a short term, then it seems to me like the job is done.”

His Majesty considered it for a moment.

“Well, the side effects are none of those things. They are somewhat annoying, though…”

“Not as annoying as having those Karelan priests bugging us about their order every couple of hours, I’m sure. Just think, Your Highness, you could be engaging in a relaxing game of Twister tonight, and –“

King Alfons’ face lit up immediately.

“Blimey, you’re so right, Jeremy! It’s been so long since I’ve twisted my limbs into impossible angles. Consider this mission: complete! I’ll send Spruit Inc the specs, and they can take it from there.”

As His Majesty jumped up and started rummaging through his board game collection, Prime Minister Dekkers withdrew from the chamber with a sigh of relief.



To: Haxada, High Karamel Priest, Rejistania

From: Suzanne Peeters, Minister of Import/Export, Spruitland

Hi there, priests!

I’m like totally thrilled to send you this first shipment of the Karamel-Spruits™ for your evaluation. Hope you like’m!
For some reason I don’t quite understand, they don’t taste like caramel, though. In fact, they taste pretty much just as crappy as normal Brussels Sprouts and stuff. But I’m sure there’s a good explanation for that.
Anyway, we’ll expect swift payment, and then you can do with them as you please.

Cheerio!

Suzanne Peeters

PS. His Majesty mentioned something about minor side effects, but I wouldn’t worry about that too much.

Kodikits u21 News

Kodikits Arrive In the Round Of 8, Plunge In Seedings Anyways

A projected ranking of 12th after another successful opening round didn't damper the Kodikits spirits or play, as Chicanada advances to the round of 8 for a second year with a 2-1 victory over Cockbill Street.

The victory pushes the Kodikits, who are the fifth favorite in the field at 8.6% into a quaterfinal matchup against either Oglethorpia or Kassyyk. As expected Hosaish Quonesh will be rested for the next match due to a sore hamstring and replaced by Ric Klizaton from AS Bishop County. Many betters have Kodikit trip to the Semifinals in place, as most forsee a hard victory to push them against either Fmjphoenix or Hockey Canada - with better suggesting Fmjphoneix as a victor against projected #1 after u21 16 HC.

Kodikits Lineup for Oglethorpia/Kassyyk Round Of 8 Matchup

01 F Ric Klizaton [18 - AS Bishop County]
02 F Iago Jezbil [19 - Risa FC]
03 F Quenton Florence [20 - Barclay Rosa]
04 F Mendozi Liamson [18 - Acadia Heights Prep]
05 M Prade Gjno [18 - Bishop East]
06 M David Slovenson [19 - Cavalier]
07 D Karison Lovitzon [19 - Territories Union College]
08 D Usa Vilajen [20 - Barclay Rosa]
09 D Hazj L'ozmakh [18 - Kingdom AC]
10 D Tobias Xavierden [19 - Wosho Gold]
11 G Raslan Seregn [20 - AS Seaport]

*Elsewhere, two CFF officials are in the midst of an arguement over the news of the Kodikits 12th place seed for u21 17*

"Why the hell are we sliding in the rankings?"

"Cuz our RPs and info suck."

"It sucks?"

"Well, we don't write massive reports and stuff like other nations."

"So...do we have to do something like blahblahblahblah?"

"...um, no Sir. We have to have more interesting stories to report. The u21 News report doesn't report on a lot and you know that Chicanadans prefer shorter stories that are to the point."

"..."

"..."

"So, that hurts us?"

"*sigh* Yes."

"Drat. Eh, maybe we'll write more next time."

;)

Manager Brent Vent opened up his daily journal, ready to fill in another entry. He began writing….

“Number 3 seed. Wow. Three tournaments in, we’ve already seen the finals once, and have yet to be knocked out before the Quarter-Finals. Of course, this U21 is still associated with Mr. Gamman’s run, but the team I have at my disposal possess, I feel, superior talent to the one he led to the Final Match. Other people seem to think the same…I mean, we’re ranked in front of Starblaydia, Jeresulem, Sarzonia, all these great teams. Somehow though, it feels undeserved. We haven’t won anything yet. Anything less than a Semi-Final appearance wouldn’t do justice to our seed. I do not want to go back to Nedalia still considered the manager that couldn’t do what Randy Gamman did in his first try. We have got to defeat our good friends the Hypocrians in the Quarters.

Speaking of the Hypocrians, they’re getting a tad bit confident. Well done to them for defeating a very talented Pacitalian team, but it’s a bit early to be boasting. And where does this DiMarco chap get off talking about my defense that way! Only I can comment about our defensive inadequacies. He must not have been watching the Jeresulem match, where our defense, and especially good ol’ Hardy, had a magnificent game. Score one or two more than them….the nerve. A lesson needs to be taught. Anyway, that does it for the night. I’ll report back after the match.”

Satisfied with his entry, the manager switched on the television, flicking through the channels trying to catch some late night football action. He stumbled onto Jeresulem Government News, who were having a football talk show, showing some highlights of the match that had just taken place. They also had a special guest on the show, none other than former U21 and current senior squad manager Randy Gamman.

“Do I believe manager Vent can take them all the way? Of course I believe. I’m rooting for him all the way. Check the records: he has a better winning percentage than me. And I’ll tell you right now, the team he has…well, they could beat the team that went to the Finals two World Cups ago anyday. The Hypocrians are a good side, very capable of winning any match, but they don’t know what they are up against. I remember trying to organize a friendly against them a few years ago, and it never materialized. It was hyped in Nedalia, and the fans were looking forward to it, but it just never happened. Well, its finally going to go down, and I can guarantee you that the Nedalian fans are going to show up in droves. They are going to make life a miserable hell for the Hypocrian players. Let me tell you something, this is a team, last World Cup, that took Starblaydia to penalties. Its pretty much the same squad, except they are more experienced and more physically developed now. In my book, this Nedalia U21 Lions squad should lift the trophy.”

“What about the Hypocria match? What are your comments on that?” asked the host.

“I’d expect a lot of goals, sure, as the Hypocrians predicted. But what I do not expect is for the goals to be in favor of the Hypocrian side. My prediction is going to be 5 – 3 for the Lions, with Constantine the man of the match. That kid is just fantastic. Along with a few others, I definitely want him for the national squad next go around. He can offer a lot. The Hypocrian defense is going to have a very hard time stopping him, and when you combine that wonderkid with players like Khalil Jamhurra and Lumiere, its just an unenviable task the defense has on its hand. On the back end, I expect a solid game from the likes of Stewart and Khadra. This is their 3rd U21 World Cup together, so they know what they are doing. But the player who has impressed me the most, who has really come along, is Hard Dans. You know, I had him in that memorable U21 World Cup 14 run, and he wasn’t half the player he is now. Vent has done a fabulous job of bringing him along. His performance against Jeresulem proves my point 100%. This is a special kid to watch, and if he keeps it up, he’ll get his go at the national team.”

Feeling the drowsiness beginning to kick in, Brent Vent switched off the TV, happy about the compliments he had received from his outspoken predecessor. He hoped he was right, but he knew it was a tough job ahead. Even if they were to get by Hypocria, they would have to face either Spruitland or, you guessed it, Starblaydia in the Semi-Finals. A tough road to the Finals. One that the team had no option but to take.

"Sir?"

"What is is Mahoney, what do you want?"

Mahoney: "I know you don't normally take care of Under 21 footall, but we need more help now than normal. We are about to face Hockey Canada in the quarter-finals, and we need more fan base in Total n Utter Insanity. Stats are showing that while we have a 17.5% chance to win again, our fanbase is below 30%. "

"And what is it that you expect me to do?"

Mahoney: "Well, as the head of Takil encouragement in other countries, we need to find a way to get Hockey Canada under the Takilian influence. If they are playing Takil like use, we can beat them easier, as we love attacking football."

"I see. But what does that do for increasing our fanbase in other countries?"

Mahoney: "Well, the more we score, the more we win. The more we win, the more people want to watch us. The more that people want to watch us, the more people like us. The more people that like us, the higher our fanbase is."

"Well, thats understandable. So what exactly are you asking of me?"

Mahoney: We need you to try and get Hockey Canada's Under 21 squad under the influence of Takil. Can you do that?"

"I will do what I can, come back later and I will let you know what has happened."

Jeruselem Government News

Jeruselem crash out on penalties again

Today, Jeruselem crashed out on the U21C14 losing to 6th seed Nedalia on penalties 4-2. The Lion's keeper played the hero stopping the last two penalty shots. It's been a while since Jeruselem did not make the quarter finals.

For a while, Jeruselem's penalty shootout record has been bad although they have improved this during U21C14 and U21C15. The coach confirmed that will return in U21C17 and with a vengance "We will not let things slide. The JPL does not make a feature of penalty shootouts as we believe soccer is about the game, not the striker vs keeper one on one thing. We may have failed now, but we'll be back"

JGN will continue playing Nedalian U21C16 on it's soccer coverage and the JGN CEO said "They'd better go make the final after they knocked us out. They have raised expectations to the extent if they don't make the semis, it will be a failure.".

Curiously the U21 records say, Jeruselem have won a U21 championship within 3 championships of not making the quarter finals everytime. This maybe new time for us to step and take the crown off the next champion.

Second Round
Starblaydia 3 An archy 2
Spruitland 2 Oaker 1
Pacitalia 2 Hypocria 3
Nedalia 1 Jeruselem 1 AET
Nedalia won 4 - 2 on penalties
Hockey Canada 1 Liverpool England 0
Fmjphoenix 2 Crystilakere 0
Oglethorpia 4 Kassyyk 6
Chicanada 2 Cockbill Street 1

Under 21 World Cup 16
Top
2nd Round Quarter Finals

Starblaydia (1) ------------
| Starblaydia (1) ------------
An archy -------------------

Spruitland (11) ------------
| Spruitland (11) ------------
Oaker (16) -----------------

Pacitalia (16) -------------
| Hypocria (11) --------------
Hypocria (11) --------------

Nedalia (6) ----------------
| Nedalia (6) ----------------
Jeruselem (3) --------------

Under 21 World Cup 16
Bottom
2nd Round Quarter Finals

Hockey Canada (5) ----------
| Hockey Canada (5) ----------
Liverpool England ----------

Fmjphoenix (1) -------------
| Fmjphoenix (1) -------------
Crystilakere (10) ----------

Oglethorpia ----------------
| Kassyyk --------------------
Kassyyk --------------------

Chicanada (7) --------------
| Chicanada (7) --------------
Cockbill Street (15) -------

Quarter Final Preview


As the Under-21 World Cup reaches the last 8 we can have a look at the upcoming quarter final ties.



Fmjphoenix (1) v Hockey Canada (5)

A case of the irresistible force meeting the immovable object as the champions attacking flair takes on the rock solid defence of the Canucks. Both sides have been in fine form, winning every game. The champions have scored an impressive 15 goals in their four games and have conceded just 4 in reply. The Canucks have scored just 6 in their matches but no-one has yet managed to pierce their formidable backline. Could this be Hockey Canada’s tournament?


Chicanada (7) v Kassyyk

Runners up to HC in their group Kassyyk, the surprise package of the tournament finished ahead of former champions Druida on goal difference. They only won one of their group games but they did put 6 past Oglethorpia in the Second Round. The Kodiaks looked comfortable on their way to winning Group H with two wins and a draw. The number 7 seeds should prove a bridge too far for The Raging Reds.


Starblaydia (1) v Spruitland (11)

Four wins out of four so far for the former champions makes good reading for Starblaydi fans but their narrow win over unranked An archy in the Second Round was not exactly convincing. The Bunnies will be up for this one having already beaten higher ranked opposition in Jerusalem and Vilita as they topped Group B, conceding only 1 goal in the process. A tough one to call but Starblaydia should still just edge it.


Nedalia (6) v Hypocria (11)

Naturally you know where our thoughts lay on this one so in order to get an unbiased opinion we asked a passing gentleman, on holiday with his family from Ausholm, his thoughts on the match.

“I have seen bits of the tournament while with been here and I’ve read the reports in the papers. Hypocria seem to score plenty of goals but a leaky defence could be their undoing particular against as strong an attacking team as Nedalia.”

Well, he believes another Starblaydia/Nedalia Semi Final is on the cards but he’s also an ignorant Ausholmer so what does he know exactly?


Always good for a quote, The Hyppo’s assistant coach Matthias DiMarco had this to say,

“We’ve been waiting for Hypocria to play Nedalia for a while now, ever since the Nedalians pulled the plug on that friendly. We know they can score goals, there are few better attacking team then The Lions, but we can score goals too. Constantine will be the man to watch out for and we will be looking to stick a player to him to mark him out of the game. We're going to win 3-2 just you wait and see.”


He sounds confident, hopefully the players are too.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y197/Spruitland/sportsgazette.jpg


Bunnies finally defeated

Starblaydia – Spruitland: 2 – 1

The Spruitland Bunnies are on their way home from a more than satisfying Under-21 World Cup where they managed to defeat every team they encountered until gracefully bowing out in the Quarter Finals to Starblaydia. The U-21 WC14 champions and current number one seeds have consistantly finished in the top three in the previous five Under-21 World Cups, and their experience proved too much to overcome for the young Spruitlanders.

The Bunnies did not go down without a fight though, and for a while it seemed as if another upset was in the making. Pesky right winger Gary Mariano snuck through the offside trap to score his first international goal, in a first half where Starblaydia was only the slightly stronger team. Spruitland’s tactic to leave the favorites the initiative while maintaining a constant threat for a fast break-away seemed effective as they went into the dressing room with a 0 – 1 lead.

But Starblaydia gradually increased the pressure in the second half and started dominating midfield. The Spruitland defense was mostly able to withstand the pressure, not giving away too many chances, but chances for the Bunnies were getting few and far between as well. With twenty minutes to go, Simon Briers saw a deflected long distance shot from Starblaydi midfielder Lazaro Rivera bounce over the goal line as he dived the wrong way.

Spruitland coach Cor Bensen then made a tactical decision that, in hindsight, may not have been the best one, as he replaced forward Chico Provoost with an extra defender. Provoost, in the starting line-up for the first time due to Kocarov’s ear injury in the match against Oaker, was running on empty after a physically demanding match, but the switch to a 5-4-1 system left the Bunnies with very little attacking strength.

The Bunnies dug in, the Starblaydis kept coming, and with extra time looming, the pressure became too much. Christian Macia was about to slip past the last defender to get a clean shot at goal and Spruitland captain Nico Van Dyck could only stop him by tackling him to the ground. Penalty kick, and the Spruitlanders didn’t bother protesting – Van Dyck got away lucky with yellow.

Giovanni Lopez hit the ball hard, to the left, and a meter above the ground. Briers’ fingertips touched the ball but did not do enough to prevent the goal. 2 – 1 Starblaydia, two minutes to go, and the Bunnies were out for the count.

Despite a slightly disappointing second half the Spruitlanders can only be pleased with their overall performance in the tournament, winning matches against higher ranked teams Vilita and Jeruselem to firmly establish themselves on the international football scene for Under-21s.

“We were in a winning mood, so it’s a bit painful to finally lose a match,” coach Cor Bensen said, “but there’s no shame in losing to Starblaydia. They’re the team to beat this tournament, as they have been for several tournaments now.”

“We’ll be back for the 17th World Cup. Maybe we can avoid the number one seeds until the final, that time,” Bensen winked.

Starblaydia – Spruitland: 2 – 1
0 – 1 Mariano (35’)
1 – 1 Rivera (70’)
2 – 1 Lopez (pen. 88’)

The high priest was annoyed about the ineptness of the minister of import and export but well, he depended on that person for the connection with the Spruitlanders. The priest however wanted the person not to be that ignorant towards the culture and so asked a blonde secretary, who was as high as the minister of import and export in Spruitland apparently is too. He told her to send 'education material' to the minister. And that she should not mention the high priest told her to do so.

Hello Suzanna,

I intercepted your message to the high priest before he received it. I was rather shocked by your not-knowing of System Karela. It is as if a woman doesn't know how to use French manicure correctly. Since women need to help each other, I sent you a DVD of all Defenders cup matches, it is commented in English, so you can understand it. The temple has so many of them so they do not note if one is missing.

Have fun,
Simu Lasak,
secretary of the high priest

PS: You know how long international payments take, but I am sure it is already underway

Haxada smiled when he saw that letter. It was extremely idiotic in terms of style, but it would hopefully be effective - especially seeing the subliminal messages in it.

In another place in Rejistania, political prisoners were used to test the spruits. Syku "Hetaki" Inik was the first subject. He was in a dark cell, had to wear earplugs and thick gloves. He had not eaten for three days so he devoured the food without thinking. Later he was 'interviewed' by a hanta-inikreasist monk. "Hetaki" seemed to be completely cured, he suddenly felt that the hanta-method is successfull. He totally agreed that attack means defeat and felt disgusted by the idea of a government allowing people to become as takilan as he was. He looked like a savage with his long unkempt hair (which confused the monk, because he remembered him to be nearly bald), and his nervous gestures, but he seemed to be completely healed.Since the monks knew that this healing might be only temporary, he remained in prison, but this time, it was a place, where we got food, light, clean clothes and a hairbrush. "Hetaki" seemed to be confused about that but when he looked in a mirror and saw how long his hair was, he asked with a bit of his former aggression how long he was in 'that hole'.

Raging Reds Stun Their Way Into Quarter Finals

Panda Field, KBWA Stadium -

The U21 Raging Reds suffered a slight setback after getting shut out by the powerful Canucks, but they still escaped Group E on goal differential over Druida and set their sites on Ogelthorpia. the match proved exciting even for those who cared little for either unknown team.

Harland Broadhag, the twenty year old center mid who has commanded the attacking five for the raging Reds got things started in the 8th minute. Broadhag pounded a free kick past the Ostrich keeper Kein from just outside the eighteen yard box. It was his third of the tournament.

Twelve minutes later shad Cassingi got his head onto a corner delivered by Tuan Frings, getting just enough to push it across the line.

It looked like the Little Ostriches had pulled back even with a two minute double salvo at the end of the first half. Dawkins rippled the Kassyyky net first, firing top 90 past Boyce Anoe. The second goal whichwas thought to be scored by Black, was waved off due to offsides. Black expressed his displeasure with the call and recieved a yellow card for dissent. This left the score 2-1 at the break.

The Little Ostriches tried to capitalize at the start of the second half, but got hit for a goal on the counter by none other than Harland Broadhag.

Kassyyk made it two in a span of five minutes and increased the lead to three when Malcom Klaja ripped a hard one touch shot into the net.

In the fifty-eighth minute Dawkins netted his second of the game off of a penalty shot following a yellow card to Diachenko. The little Ostriches made it two when Black put his first that counted past Anoe, making the scoreboard read 4-3.

Kassyyk made all three of its substitutions in the 65th minute, sending defensive midfeilder Tuan Frings and strikers Shad Cassingi and Malcom Klaja to the locker room in favor of some fresh legs. The moves paid off in the form of a a quick goal for the man of the match, Harland Broadhag. A hat trick for the 20 year old!

Virgilio Ardalay and Mogler swapped insignificant goals in the final ten minutes to the game.

After the match e caught up with manager Brandt Kromm. The forty year old offered the following comment on upcoming opponent Chicanada:

"We are very happy to have made it this far, and Chicanada have a very strong side. I still hold storng that my boys have the talent needed to win. I KNOW that if we hold true to our gameplan, and force Chicanada to keep up in a goalfest then we can move into the semis. Our only loss thus far was to the Canucks when we bent to their style of play. we're not the kind of team that excells in 1-0 or 2-1 games."

Pacitalia frozen in second round once more, but spirits are high

In typical fashion for the Pacitalian U21 side, a win in the second round was once more unachievable as the victory just slipped out of their grasp in the 80th minute with a sniper's shot from Hypocrian forward Danny West that won the opponent the game, 3-2.

It was a tight match all the way through, but it was Pacitalia playing catch-up the entire match, tying the game back up at 1-1, cancelling Karic's 23rd minute goal with a great corner kick from Bertrando Massimatto. In the 47th minute, Baxter responded for Hypocria with an excellent goal but it was cancelled as well in the 54th minute by an Andreos Charisteas bullet. However, the higher-seeded Hypocria was just too much for Pacitalia, and the home side once more bows out in the second round.

"I am disappointed, for sure," said Charisteas post-match. "We felt like this was our cup to win, after taking a tough group. But, the fun part is, we expect to come back next year even higher in the seedings and making a name for ourselves there. We can only keep going up, and because of that, we're excited for Cup 17."

Coach Santo Castorini: "I definitely agree with what Andreos said. We're going to have so many of our leaders back again next year, that it will be unusual for us not to make a name for ourselves once more next time around. I look forward to it."

"We were beaten by a deserving opponent," Massimatto added. "They played us well, but we're not sad about it. Next year, we'll come back and get our revenge on the entire cup. Just you watch." He then left with a saucy wink.

So, in summation, Pacitalia encountered an excellent cup this time, but over four matches, still ended up with a .500 record - two wins, two losses. The most important win was, of course, the one over Sarzonia on Match Day 1, which may only increase the friendly rivalry between the two nations.

Now with more of the so-called "power teams", it's looking more and more like a Starblaydia-Fmjphoenix final, but, of course, we can't count out those who are still in the knockouts.

and set their sites on Ogelthorpia. the match proved exciting even for those who cared little for either unknown team.
Ogle hosted World Cup 8 and 14, hardly unknown ;)

1 Hockey Canada
2 Fmjphoenix
3 Nedalia
4 Spruitland
4 Starblaydia
6 Jeruselem
7 Sarzonia
8 Hypocria
9 Pacitalia
10 Chicanada
10 Rejistania
12 Vtorbetin
13 East Lithuania
14 Gaian Ascendancy
15 Kassyyk
16 Cockbill Street
17 Crystilakere
18 Oglethorpia
19 Oaker
20 Liverpool England
21 Bedistan
22 Atlantis of Vilita

IFF Looks For New Coach

With the recent resignation of former Under 21 national team coach Valentin Kienzl, the Incorporated Football Federation is searching for a qualified candidate to serve as the head coach of the team, nicknamed the Junior Stars. While the IFF would prefer a candidate with at least two World Cups of experience as a head coach, consideration will be given to a candidate without head coaching experience if that candidate demonstrates certain characteristics we believe would lead the new coach to great success.

Our priority is to find a coach who has experience molding young men and women to be the future of the National Team. The ideal candidate will be a coach who espouses a balanced philosophy of an attack based on possession offence and a defence that marks its opponents aggressively. The ideal candidate will be a well-organised male or female who will work with our senior national team to ensure that its players form an effective pipeline from the Under 21 level to the senior team.

We are accepting applications for the head coaching position until (31 May IRL). Applicants may contact our offices via standard postal services or electronic mail (OOC: Either on this thread if TnUI doesn't mind or via TG). We look forward to meeting with prospective candidates and we await your response.

Chicanada Knocks Out Apprentices
Good Show Lads

Two goals either side of half time from Quenton Florence saw the Chicanada Kodikits win comfortably over the Cockbill Street Apprentices in the second round of the Under-21 World Cup. As usual, the Apprentices were never really in with a shout, even though the team changed to a 4-2-4 formation with Johnstone and Olenite entering near the end of the match.

Strangely enough, many of the players who continually do awfully in the Under-21 Championship are regulars in the Compound League, suggesting that the Department of Sports broadcasting it as "the second strongest league in the world" is slightly overdone. Still, the Apprentices will return next year - still ranked around sixteenth and with absolutely no chance of winning.

Kassyyk Thrilled With New Rankings

Presidential Palace, Aronica -

Every sports fan in Kassyyk is celebrating this evening after the recent announcement of updated U21 rankings have the Raging Reds at 15th in the world.

Kassyyky President Matt Scheffert was asked his reaction to the news between visits to TnUI for the games.

"I am absolutely overjoyed. Our boys have played so well to make it this far. Getting out of the group was their goal for this first tournament as I understand it, and they did that. The victory over Oglethorpia was not only great for the team, but for the whole country as well. To be playing with the seven best teams in the world is really an honor. they have a tough test ahead against Chicanada, but I'll be in the stands wearing my kit right alongside my countrymen and women."

Quarter Finals
Starblaydia 2 Spruitland 1
Hypocria 2 Nedalia 5 AET
Hockey Canada 2 Fmjphoenix 0
Kassyyk 1 Chicanada 3

Hello Suzanna,

I intercepted your message to the high priest before he received it. I was rather shocked by your not-knowing of System Karela. It is as if a woman doesn't know how to use French manicure correctly. Since women need to help each other, I sent you a DVD of all Defenders cup matches, it is commented in English, so you can understand it. The temple has so many of them so they do not note if one is missing.

Have fun,
Simu Lasak,
secretary of the high priest



Suzanna Peeters looked at the DVD and smirked. Oh jolly, football matches. How terribly exciting, not. It was bad enough everyone had been glued to the TV while those Bunnies had been playing in the Under-21 World Cup. Was she ever glad it was over now. Though, she had to admit, some of those boys had a nice ass.

She tossed the DVD into a drawer – perhaps she could wrap it up as a present for someone, some time – and started writing her reply.


Hiya, Simu Lasak!

It’s so good to see that there are some sensible people over there in Rejistanialand! Those high priest dudes seem way too tight-assed to be good for their health. Don’t you girls know how to make them relax, over there?
Thanks so much for the DVD and stuff! I watched it and enjoyed every second of it. Exciting stuff, really!

Take care, sis!

Suzanne Peeters
Minister of Import/Export
Spruitland

The Nedalia Lions

Lions Lift Curse; Make Finals For 2nd Time in Three Tries



The country has shut down, the alcohol is flowing freely, and there is an official day of celebration as the U21 Lions head to the Finals for the 2nd time in 3 tries. Even President Bren was seen, albeit briefly, among the throng of fans who took to the streets after the team overcame their demons and finally defeated the Starblaydian team who had knocked them out of the two previous U21 World Cups. The semi-finals match did not come easy, however, since the team had to get through a resilient Hypocrian side that took all of the Nedalian effort to win that match.

After defeating Jeresulem on penalties in the 2nd round, the Lions earned a draw with a Hypocrian side that was talking big and winning matches. Minor altercations took place before the match up between the two friendly nations, having anticipated this match for years now. A few years ago, a match was agreed upon between Hypocria and Nedalia, and for whatever reason, the match was cancelled. The Hypocrians blamed the Nedalians, while the Nedalians pointed their fingers towards their opponents. This Quarter-Finals match was supposed to settle these footballing disputes, and there was no lack of fire from either side. In the end, Nedalia took the match away with a 5-2 win, but the scoreline was deceiving.

The first goal against Hypocria came 12 minutes into the match, through Dennis Howard, giving the Lions a lead which they would, incidentally, give away 3 minutes later. That is the way it remained going into halftime, with both teams counterattacking with each opportunity they got.

The 2nd half brought the same level of excitement, and this time it was the Hypocrians who struck first, in the 59th minute, giving them a 2 – 1 lead and sending the Hypocrian fans into a frenzy. That would last, however, approximately 7 minutes, as Constantine would nail in the equalizer in the 66th minute to bring life back into the Nedalian fans.

The match would end in that 2-2 scoreline, sending the match into extra time, and into further torture for the already worn down players. This is when the magic began. Unlike their Hypocrians counterparts, the Nedalians came out with a lust for victory in their eyes, showing absolutely no signs of tiredness. What happened next might have been one of the best performances given by a team in recent memory. The Nedalians scored 3 goals in extra time to seal the deal, and win with a scoreline of 5-2

“The boys played their hearts out today. They could’ve laid out and just took what was given to them, and hoped for the best in penalties, but today, they showed the world what Nedalians are made of. I’m extremely proud of them. This is a memorable performance, one that showed what Ive been saying all along: this team has the ability to make it all the way,” commented manager Brent Vent.

Indeed, if there was a highlight show of the greatest moments in U21 history, this would be up there. The Nedalians completely took apart the Hypocrian defense and earned the right to face the team that had been responsible for knocking Nedalia out of the two previous World Cups: Starblaydia.

The Semi-Final matchup with a team Nedalians nicknamed ”The Devil” was set up after Starblaydia defeated a high flying Spruitland team 2 – 1. Preparation immediately began, and the attitude around the Lions camp was one of pure concentration and focus. Adamant to break the curse, the players took it upon themselves to make sure they were 100% ready for the most important match of their lives.

Against a highly talented Starblaydian side, the Lions showcased their sheer will and showed the universe something unexpected: defense. Conceding only one goal in the match, the Lions were able to hold on to the victory, scoring 2 goals of their own.

“Definitely it was the defense that won the game for us, completely unlike the Hypocria match. No longer can people look at us and say, you know what, lets just find a way to hold them down to one or two goals and we can guarantee ourselves the victory. We are going to score, that much is for sure. But now, our defense is starting to come together, and at a perfect time. We lifted a monkey off of our shoulder today, defeating the team that has been a thorn in our side,” the manager proclaimed.

The match was more or less equal, but the biggest difference, and the reason Nedalia won the match, was the sheer power the Nedalian defense showed. Led by Mohammed Khadra and Gary Stewart, who have been partners for three U21 World Cups now, the defense effectively shut the Starblaydian offense down and were able to keep them to just one goal. If these two do not make the U21 World Cup 16 Dream Team, it would be a travesty.

It was the Nedalians who struck first, through the sensational Lumiere, in the 33rd minute after a beautifully set up pass by defensive midfielder Carpard Nutting. The match had to be delayed for about 4 minutes after some Nedalian fans, in their excitement, starting causing a little too much trouble.

The second half saw the Nedalians continue to press, and the saw the Nedalian defense at its finest. Time and time again, the Starblaydians were shut down, with all their attacks stopping short. In fact, it was a defensive effort that turned to a well orchestrated counterattack that allowed Khalil Jamhurra to score Nedalia’s 2nd goal in the 75th minute, the goal that rocked the stadium. Going up 2-0 sent now only the fans, but the players into a frenzy as they sensed the Finals were only breathing distance away.

The Starblaydians, in typical fashion, managed to get one back in the 84th minute, and pursued the second goal long and hard, but it was inevitably Nedalia’s night. After the final whistle sounded, the fans rushed the field to celebrate with their heroes, giving many flashbacks of U21 World Cup 14 when Nedalia achieved a similar victory over Sarzonia. This time, however, they will be going into the finals and favorites, and after these performances, that label is deserved.

Hockey Canada defeats rival Junior Vikings- Chokes 2-0 to Chicanada
Shock in Hockey Canada

If someone were to tell you how Hockey Canadian fans were when the Canucks defeated Fmjphoenix, they'd tell you the entire population had gone completely mad. If they told you how they were after their loss to Chicanada, they'd tell you they were homicidal. In one day the mood in Hockey Canada went from ecastic to murderous. The 2-0 win over Fmjphoenix was overshadowed by a 2-0 loss to Chicanada, leaving them to vie for the consolation finals against Starblaydia.

The quarter-finals was a match played very well by the Hockey Canadians and Fmjphoenix, showing displays of great skill at many points in the game. The impenetrable defence of Hockey Canada prevailed once again, as Arien Vogel had 3 glorious opportunities in the opening half. In the 14th minute, Vogel managed to slip by the Canuck defenders and get a good shot off net, but as usual, Kyle Thomas made the save to keep his 4-game shutout streak alive.

Vogel got away again in the 31st minute when he broke in past a sliding Kulkarni and tried to chip the ball over Thomas but couldn't beat the keeper. Kulnarni made up for his mistake by scoring a goal in the 42nd minute. Scoring on a free kick that was debated but ruled a hand-ball 22 yards from the net. Vogel's 3rd chance was missed in the 45th minute when he took a hard shot from 17 yards out beating Thomas but not the crossbar keeping the game 1-0.

The second half was all Hockey Canada, with Ko scoring in the 63rd minute on a corner kick where he simply used his chest to divert the ball behind the keeper. Hockey Canada had many chances to make their lead to 3 goals but didn't convert on their chances. The Takil didn't work this game as the final score ended with the Canucks up 2-0.

Hockey Canada- 2
Kulkarni (42)
Ko (63)

Fmjphoenix- 0

However, the semi-finals didn't seem meant to be. The game against Chicanada, a team which beat Kassyyk en route to the semis went wrong right from the beginning. The Kodiak player broke in on Thomas in the 4th minute before making a brilliant move on him to get it trickling behind Thomas. All the players on the Hockey Canadian squad were furious with their lack of play and pressed as hard as they could but could not prevail.

In the second half there was flashes of hope when Josh Noble, the little player from the little town on Liuvd, recieved a long pass from half. The ball floated in the air as he was all alone when the Kodiak keeper came out to punch the ball. Noble jumped to head the ball and it appeared to be so when the ball bounced off the colliding players into the back of the Kodiak net. Replays later showed the ball was indeed punched in by the small 5"8 player and the goal was disallowed.

The Kodiaks sealed the Canucks fate in the 88th minute when a striker broke in along on Thomas. Thomas came out to challenge the striker and appeared to have the ball as the clutched a mass in his hands. The ball trickled into the back of the net as Thomas realized he was grabbing onto the Kodiak striker.

"I still don't know how they managed to score." he said after the game.

Now the Canucks will play Starblaydia for the consolation final. Trying to keep the overall number 1 spot for as long as they can, they'll try for their first appearance in the top 3 in international history.

Kodikits u21 News

Kodikits Roar Into Grand Finals, Face History Again

And now they're down to one.

Ric Klizaton and Mendozi Liamson proved to be the kings of Chicanada as they lead the Kodikits into the Grand Final of the u21s for the first time with a 3-1 pounding of Kassyyk followed by a 2-0 revenge victory over Hockey Canada.

In the match against Kassyyk, the rust on the Kodikits finally broke free as Klizaton led the scorers with his first hattrick in footy play. He scored a nifty header goal in the 17th minute and two penatly goals in the second half to put the Kodiaks comfortably into the Semifinals for the first time.

Against the soon-to-be #1 Hockey Canada, the Kodikits were looking for revenge after they lost to HC in the consolation semifinals last session. This time, the Kodikits made sure to finish the job as Liamson scored first in the fourth minute past hardass goalkeep Tomas.

The Kodikits proved to have too much fire for the Canadians and didn't let a hand goal by Josh Noble early in the second half affect their play as Klizaton score his fourth goal in two matches right before injury time to seal up a remarkable victory for the Kodikits

Kodikits Lineup for Grand Finals

01 F Ric Klizaton [18 - AS Bishop County]
02 F Iago Jezbil [19 - Risa FC]
03 F Quenton Florence [20 - Barclay Rosa]
04 F Mendozi Liamson [18 - Acadia Heights Prep]
05 M Prade Gjno [18 - Bishop East]
06 M David Slovenson [19 - Cavalier]
07 D Karison Lovitzon [19 - Territories Union College]
08 D Usa Vilajen [20 - Barclay Rosa]
09 D Hazj L'ozmakh [18 - Kingdom AC]
10 D Tobias Xavierden [19 - Wosho Gold]
11 G Raslan Seregn [20 - AS Seaport]

The victory pushes the team into the Finals for the first time...and they face off against a team they have faced before. The Kodikits lost in their first ever appearance in the Round of 16 in u21-13 against the mighty Lions from Nedalia. That match ended 6-5 after overtime and the Kodikits would love to even the score in their series while taking the first crown ever of any National Squad in any sport.

No pressure, of course. Nedalia is considered the favorite and after their impressive ouster of Starblaydia it could be considered true. But the Kodikits are finally firing on all cylinders and appear set to knock off another favorite towards a title that seemed out of reach three games ago.

The Lions Roar


Hypocria 2 - 5 Nedalia
Burdali 15
West 59


After 90 minutes this quarter final was all square, after 120 minutes The Lions were out of sight.

Words had been exchanged between the rival camps ahead of kick off that supercharged the quarter final encounter and what followed was a showpiece of attacking football. As Mohammed Khadra and Marcus Baxter lead out the teams countless millions were glued to their television sets as The Most Serene Republic virtually ground to a halt.

The Lions took twelve minutes to open the scoring as Dennis Howard punished some typically lax marking. But, looking to impress the watching new national coach, The Hyppos equalised just three minutes later. Right wingback Golla raced down the flank and shaped to cross, instead he dragged the ball back to the edge of the box and the onrushing Burdali he fired low into the bottom corner. Despite attacks from both sides the score was still 1-1 as the half time whistle blew, largely thanks to the good work of both keepers.

The second half continued in the same manner as the first, at 100 miles an hour. But last before the hour mark thousands of Hypocrians inside the stadium and untold millions back home went absolutely crazy as Danny West, rumoured to be watched by scouts from Spruitland, grabbed his fifth goal of the tournament. The Hypocrian lead lasted a mere seven minutes as the ever dangerous Constantine eluded his marker and drilled in the equaliser. The final whistle blew, 2-2 was the score and a further half an hour would be needed to try and separate these two sides.

The extra time period saw a truly remarkable performance from The Lions as they found a higher gear, a gear they had no right to have given the high tempo of their performance so far. But find it they did and The Hyppos suffered. The Nedalians scored once, then twice and added a third as The Hyppos gave up all defensive duties. It was an awesome display.

The final whistle blew and the Hypocrian players sank to the ground, partly through disappointment but more with exhaustion. Head Coach Boubacar Dragov, who looked himself like he had played the entire 120 minutes, embraced his opposite number Brent Vent before leading his battered side of the field. He had this to say after the match,

“I am so proud of my players, I couldn’t have asked for anything more from them. I genuinely believe that we were beaten by the best team in the world right now. No one could have coped with The Lions in that mood, in extra time they were unbelievable. But we will be back and much stronger for the experience.”

Assitant Coach Matthias DiMarco added,

“Two years ago we were dumped out of our group after a 7-0 defeat, today we have lost in the quarter final. It shows how far we have come and what we are capable of. Next time, well who knows? I know words were exchanged in the heat of the moment between ourselves and the Nedalians but there will be no hard feelings. I honestly hope they go on to win the whole thing”

REVIEW OF U21 WORLD CUP 16


Two teams, one match, one victor. It would not be a far shot to say that this was not the final everyone predicted, despite the strength showed from both sides since the beginning of the tournament. It’s been an absolute wonderful ride thus far, and has brought with it a lot of fantastic memories. Let us take a look back at the journey that has led up to the Final match between Nedalia and Chicanada.


GROUP STAGES:

Nedalia came into the tournament with high expectations and team that looked ready to do some damage. For the insiders in the know, they had quietly named the Lions one of the top teams in the tournament and definitely one of the teams to watch. However, this was not a general sentiment that was felt by everyone, as this was only the Lions 3rd U21 World Cup. Their group featured Oaker, Bedistan, and East Lithuania, a relatively easy advancement for the Lions to the 2nd round. They did not disappoint, defeating all three opponents, with the climax being the match against the northern neighbors of Bedistan.

Just one seed behind the Lions was Chicanada (seeded 7th), whose group featured Paul Sconthrope Fans, Crystilakere, and Gaian Ascendancy. Much was expected from the Gaian Ascendancy, but alas they failed to make it out of the group stages. There was very little trouble for Chicanada in qualifying, winning two of their matches and drawing their last one against AO nation Crystilakere.

The first round also brought in some shockers, more than usual considering the tournament is known for its set “powerhouses”. Spruitland was one of the first to make its mark, defeating Vilita 1-0, and then demolishing Jeresulem 3-0, sending shockwaves through the footballing world. Finalist Starblaydia were given a scare by Hypocria before finally defeating them 3-2. Nonetheless, the Hypocrians, in this match, proved to the universe they were not to be fooled and that they had to be considered as one of the top teams in the tournament. In a highly built up match between the two allies of Pacitalia and Sarzonia, the Pacitalians won 3-2 in what many consider one of the best matches in U21 World Cup 16. What it definitely did was put the Pacitalians back on the football radar, and through Sarzonia into an absolute free fall, resulting in the resignation of manager Valentin Kienzl.


2ND ROUND:

The Lions were rewarded with a match against a very strong Jeresulem team for winning all 3 of their group stage matches in convincing fashion. This match would prove to be the biggest test Nedalia had in the tournament, with the match going all the way to penalties. They were finally able to overcome and defeat Jeresulem and avenge their loss to them in the World Cup prior to this one. As for Chicanada, they were drawn up against the 15th seeded Cockbill Street. They overcame them 2-1, setting up their match-up with unranked Kassyyk, who had defeated Oglethorpia 6-4 in a immensely exciting 2nd round match. Other notable 2nd round match-ups included Spruitland vs. Oaker, which the Bunnies won 2-1, earning a draw with Starblaydia in the Quarter-Finals. In a clash of “Nations with a Country’s Name”, Hockey Canada, who have been ranked the number 1 seed for the upcoming World Cup, defeated Liverpool England 1-0, drawing defending champions and pre-tournament favorites Fmjphoenix, who advanced after defeating Crystilakere in convincing fashion, 2-0. Despite being favored by Nedalian experts to make it to the Quarter-Finals atleast, Pacitalia’s dreams where ended short, falling to a motivated Hypocrian side 3-2, which set up Nedalia’s Quarter-Final matchup.


QUARTER-FINALS:

The Hypocria vs. Nedalia match has been brewing for years, and the tension could’ve been felt a thousand miles away. After a few jabs through the media, it was time to decide who would advance to the semi-finals. After a 2-2 draw at the end of regular time, Nedalia pulled off one of the most spectacular performances witnessed in U21 history, scoring 3 goals in extra time to advance to the Semi-Finals, defeating their opponents 5-2.

The winner of the Starblaydia vs. Spruitland match would face the Lions in the Semi-Finals, and this one was possibly one of the most anticipated matches in the entire tournament. The highly talented newcomer versus the timeless, dominant giant. Unfortunately for Spruitland, it was the Starblaydian squad, through their sheer talent and experience, that won the match and advanced to the Semi-Finals. Spruitland felt what Nedalia had to go through these past two worldcups, that is going on an impressive run only to be brought back down to earth by Starblaydia.

The new number one seed, Hockey Canada, would battle with the defending champions, Fmjphoenix, for the rights to advance to that prestigious final four. And indeed, they were able to pull off one of the bigger upsets in the tournament, defeating the defending champions 2-0 in quite impressive fashion. They would face Chicanada, who were able to put away Kassyyk, another gifted unranked team, in just as impressive fashion, 3-1.


SEMI-FINALS:

For Nedalians everywhere, there could be no bigger match than the one against Starblaydia. Having knocked them out of the two previous World Cups (not to mention defeating them in the Finals of World Cup 14), there was a certain feeling of revenge seething through the Nedalian players. Many of them were on the team that made it to the Finals, and they were ready to dish out some punishment of their own. When the final whistle rang throughout the stadium with Nedalia up 2-1, the fans could not contain their excitement. They rushed the field and celebrated their victory in high fashion, their first victory against Starblaydia and the one that would send them to the Finals.

In the other Semi-Final matchup, Chicanada, who had quietly advanced to this far without making too much noise, faced Hockey Canada, a team which many favored to win this match and advance to the Finals. It was not to be, however, as the Hockey Canadians came up short, losing the match 2-0. The loss against Chicanada could just as much be attributed to their tiredness than to the Chicanadian football skills. Regardless, it was Chicanada who proved to be the better team, advancing to the Finals for the first time ever.

Pacitalia picks Nedalia to win

In what should be an interesting matchup for two teams that weren't the two most likely teams to make it this far in U21 World Cup 16, Nedalia faces Chicanada this week. Nedalia beat off tough challenges from top-seed Starblaydia while Chicanada took on a Hockey Canada team that had beaten the other top seed Fmjphoenix but lost in the semis. Now, the two face each other for all the marbles, as they say.

A move that has shocked the football world was Coach Marapazzo Santo Castorini and forward Andreos Charisteas picking Nedalia to win. Usually, teams don't root for other teams, let alone pick a winner; they leave that up to the bookkeepers. But this time around, they both agree Nedalia has what it takes to win this incarnation of the cup.

"They're a talented, determined bunch, who just beat Starblaydia in a narrow thriller," Santo Castorini said Monday. "If that doesn't give a team the ultimate confidence to take the whole cup, I don't know what does. Really."

Charisteas agreed. "Although Chicanada is an excellent team, I think Nedalia has the real advantage through beating a top seed, like Coach said. Chicanada didn't have to do that - they faced real challenges but nothing like Nedalia did. The momentum and confidence are definitely with the Lions on this one, and I'll be surprised, though I can't say shocked, if they lose."

Were they projecting a score?

"I hate to do this," Charisteas said with a smile. "but I'd say maybe 2-1 or 3-2 for Nedalia. Just being conservative, I don't want to go out on a tangent."

Meanwhile, the eccentric coach of the Pacitalian side says it will be 7-0 for Nedalia. We'll just have to see.

Manager Brent Vent took some time after his training preparations for the finals to personally thank Pacitalia coach Castorini for getting behind the Lions.

"He just became every single Nedalian's best friend, I can tell you that. From the beginning I have been saying that Pacitalia were one of the top teams in the tournament, and I stand by my word. They could easily be the team that made it this far. He has just given the team extra motivation going into the most important match in Nedalia's young career. Because of his public support for our team, I cordially invite coach Castorini to join us, right behind our bench, as our VIP guest. In fact, the Pacitalia team is invited. We will save the entire row right behind our bench for the team. I hope he accepts our offer, it would be an honor for us to have him and his squad as our guests."

To: Brent Vent
From: Marapazzo Santo Castorini

We would be honoured to join you behind the bench. I hope this is the start of a unique friendship bonded by sport between Pacitalia and Nedalia! Good luck to you.

9 Pacitalia

Pacitalia surprised by ninth-seeding

The Pacitalian U21 side is a little surprised by being seeded ninth for the next U21 World Cup. It is a ranking subject to positive or negative change, because as of now U21WC16 is not finished, but in the meantime, it has raised a few eyebrows - negative eyebrows.

"Sure, I'm happy that we jumped seven places in one cup," Assistant Coach Lindifeu Zentrescu said today. "However, I would have thought we deserved a slightly higher ranking for beating another powerhouse like Sarzonia. My feeling is that we deserved maybe seventh or eighth seed. I guess we'll see what happens in the coming days."

"There are definitely teams that deserve to be in first, second, third, fourth, fifth," added midfielder Eusebio Pancrazio. "But, I think we earned a higher spot than ninth for our play."

There will be no official contesting of the ranking, though.

"We know that ranking can still change, and probably will go in the direction we want it to," Pancrazio added.

Zentrescu followed that by saying, "Still, ninth is better than sixteenth, so we're still happy with the substantial jump in ranking."

Now that Pacitalia is back in the top 10, are we a football powerhouse once more? With an expected entry into World Cup 23, and things looking better for U21 World Cup 17, plus Pacitalia's winning of the North American Soccer Championships* held in Saskatoon, Canada, that title may just be earned back by those efficient, talented Pacitalian U21 boys.

Syku Inik refused to be called by his old nickname "Hetaki". It was a part of his "former risk-neutral life". The monks saw that as an advantage. Syku Inik was allowed to have his dinner with the other prisoners in Heh~sume-h~seme (He learned that day that the prison, he was in was actually called like that, he had no idea where this place was (even though he suspected nanti kansu) or what kind of prison it was). He wanted some company because the last days were really problematic for him, the only talks he had were with monks who only wanted to convert him (now he wondered why he was against it at all). Other prisoners made comments about him being gay, and he had no idea why... he became an idea when he sat on his hair... He had no idea that he was part of an experiment, because then he would have told something is wrong, so he only was confused.

JGN Sports Ad

Good morning soccer fans. The long awaited Under 21 Championship 16 semi-finals and finals will be screened live, yes LIVE. No delayed telecasts, it live. Please stay tuned on JGN for latest World Cup 22 results and live U21 games.

Coming up
U21C16 Semi 1: Starblaydia vs Nedalia
U21C16 Semi 2: Chicanada vs Hockey Canada
U21C16 Final: Winners of Semi 1 and 2 meet

Our Lions fans in Jeruselem will have access to all this on cable and free-to-air TV. Cable users will have access to replays of previous U21C16 games played by Nedalia and Jeruselem including the 2nd round clash of the two teams.

The Nedalia Lions

Third Time a Charm for Lions

There will be no sleep for the weary tonight as the Nedalia Lions have done themselves, and their country, proud, defeating Chicanada 2-1 in the Finals of the U21 World Cup 16. Scenes of street parties all around Nedalia were prevalent throughout the night, and the Nedalian fans in TnUI were doing the same thing.

“Its been a long journey, certainly. No one can accuse us of taking the easy route to the championship, having defeated teams like Starblaydia, Jeresulem, and Hypocria. This is a great moment in Nedalian history, and I am enjoying every second of it,” commented star midfielder Constantine

“What can I say, we did it! We battled long and hard to get here, and we deserve it. Hockey Canada may have the number one ranking, but we are the champions, and that is all that counts. It feels good just saying that,” proclaimed striker Lumiere.

The Chicanadans will be upset with a call or two that didn’t go their way, but all in all, the match was pretty much of any controversy, with Nedalia coming out deserved winners. The match itself wasn’t as tactical as the one played against Jeresulem, or as high paced as the one against Hypocria, but was entertaining in its own right. With the right mix of defense and offense being played, it kept fans on their seats, especially the last few minutes.

After scoring the first goal through Lumiere in the 34th minute, the Lions believed they had a nice one goal cushion going into the 2nd half. Chicanada, however, had other plans. Merely minutes into the 2nd half, they scored a wonderful goal to put the game back into equal territory. The match would go back and forth until the final minutes of the game, and as they have done so many times this tournament, the Lions refused to die and turned up the effort. In the 87th minute, in typical Nedalian fashion, they were rewarded for their efforts as, appropriately enough, Constantine scored a marvelous goal after dribbling by 3 defenders.

“Constantine has been marvelous for us all tournament long. It would be an absolute shame if he didn’t win the Best Player award. He is the key reason we have had the success we did. Khadra and Stewart have been rocks at the back all tournament long as well, and they were just as important. All in all, the entire team performed, and I’m happy with the results obviously. You are looking at the new world U21 champions!” commented manager Brent Vent.

The parties will continue all weekend long in Nedalia, and there will be no complaints about a drowsy Monday by any boss. This has been the Lions time to shine, and they have not disappointed. The heroes are expected back in Nedalia tomorrow.

IFF congratulates Lions, still hunting for coach

With the Nedalia Lions winning its first-ever Under 21 World Cup championship, Incorporated Football Federation Terry Mangione took a moment from the team's coaching search to congratulate the Lions for winning.

"You have done the region proud," Mangione said in a telephone call to the Nedalian FA. "We stand beside our fellow Atlantian Oceania countries in praise of your team's hard work."

Mangione said the response to the team's call for a new head coach "disappointing," and said he was even considering being "dual-headed," and taking the coaching job for the first time since the World Cup VIII flameout.

"We've got to get a coach in place who will get our programme back in the right direction," Mangione said. "We've received few applicants, and all of those have been internal. We would like to get some new ideas."

Mangione denied published reports that he contacted Pacitalian assistant coach Lindifeu Zentrescu for the head coaching position, saying that the team has expressed interest in "certain candidates," but none have "been slam bang awesome.

"We're looking for someone who's going to take this team to new heights, and we have not even heard from Zentrescu," Mangione said. "Certainly if he or Marapazzo Santo Castorini came calling, I'd be more than willing to listen. Hell, I'd even consider Syku Lyku for the job if he came calling. Or maybe that guy (former Rejistanian midfielder Sa)."

Mangione denied the team would consider playing System Karela, but said the new coach would be "mostly free," to install whatever system he preferred.

"I'm not a coach anymore. I'm not in position to dictate a specific offencive or defencive system. But no Karela. That much I can say."

In a shock announcement today, Nedalia U21 manager Brent Vent announced that, if offered, he would take the vacancy of the Sarzonia squad.

"Obviously, this is just a message of intent. I'd like to throw my name out there. I've done all I have done with this team, and its time for my assistant to shine. He'll do just fine. I'm personally looking for a new challenge, and this would represent the perfect opportunity for me. Sarzonia are like a wounded lion, who need to be healed back to the kings they once were. I would love to be the one to do that."

There has been reports some of the younger U21 players feel disappointed by the announcement, but apparently the manager had gotten the blessing of the Nedalian FA prior to the announcement. More news as they come to us.

Zentrescu a Pacitalian expat? It is possible...

With reports published in the sports section of the Pacitalian-owned Woodstock Daily Mail that Pacitalian U21 assistant coach Lindifeu Zentrescu would be taking the head coaching position for the Sarzonian national team now that the former coach affectionately known by the nickname "One-Cup Valentin" (Kienzl) resigned, it seemed only appropriate that Zentrescu himself make a comment. He did so at a press conference in Total n Utter Insanity earlier today.

"Sure, I'm interested in taking the position," Zentrescu said. "I've always wanted the opportunity to lead-coach a national side, and this would give me that chance. The only problem I would have with such a move is that my heart still lies and will always lie in Pacitalia. It has been my home for 56 years and I would rather not leave. However, if Terry (Mangione, the head of the Incorporated Football Federation) wants me to join his team, I am open to talks. Football is my other passion besides Pacitalia, it is the only thing that will allow me to leave my country for another."

Zentrescu has the blessing of Marapazzo Santo Castorini, who says it will be a "tough time not having him beside me in the next under-21 cup, but he's making a worthwhile personal transaction and he has my full support."

The Head of the Football Administration of Pacitalia, Feris Karagianis, also gave his blessing. "Lindifeu's served us well over seven U21 cups. It will be sad to see him go if he does take the position, but he deserves it."

Charisteas earns a tidy sum and then some as Nedalia takes U21 World Cup 16

Pacitalian Under-21 forward Andreos Charisteas earned himself two hundred douros, a tidy little sum, after he correctly picked Nedalia to win by the score of 2-1. In addition to that, he finds himself front and centre in a lucrative, multi-million-douro sponsorship deal with Pacitalian-based Adidas to sell their new breathable soccer-practice-style shirts and shorts.

"No doubt about it I'm happy," Charisteas said with a grin. "I'm never usually this lucky when it comes to team betting," refusing to talk about the sponsorship deal.

Meanwhile, in much bigger news, the Nedalians, as mentioned, ran the game from start to finish with a 2-1 victory over a tough opponent in Chicanada, with great goals, one in each half from talented players Lumiere and Constantine.

This is Nedalia's first U21 World Cup win in three tries, and as the headline in Nedalia's main sporting newspaper said today, "Third Time's A Charm", for sure. Nedalia is one of the first smaller nations to win a U21 cup in one of their first tries, something Pacitalia has not even done as a larger nation.

Nedalian manager Brent Vent was ecstatic. "Constantine has been marvelous for us all tournament long. It would be an absolute shame if he didn’t win the Best Player award. He is the key reason we have had the success we did. Khadra and Stewart have been rocks at the back all tournament long as well, and they were just as important. All in all, the entire team performed, and I’m happy with the results obviously. You are looking at the new world U21 champions!"

Meanwhile, it appears Pacitalia and Nedalia have created a bond of friendship not usually seen in the sporting world, wherein the Pacitalian U21 side was invited by Vent to sit in the bench behind the playing team and watch, as Nedalia scored two on their way to under-21 world cup glory. It was expected that other AO nations would congratulate Nedalia but for a non-AO nation like Pacitalia, the move is a surprise, but one lauded by the international sporting community.

Applicants signing up for Junior Stars vacancy

Shortly after the Incorporated Football Federation expressed disappointment that they had received no applications for the vacant Under 21 national team head coaching position, two applicants made their interest known for the Junior Stars.

Brent Vent, head coach of the world champion Nedalia Lions, has announced following his team's 2-1 victory over Chicanada that he would be interested in serving as the new Junior Stars coach.

"I'm personally looking for a new challenge, and this would represent the perfect opportunity for me," Vent said in his announcement of interest in the coaching vacancy. The Junior Stars "are like a wounded lion who need to be healed back to the kings they once were. I would love to be the one to do that."

Pacitalian assistant coach Lindifeu Zentrescu also announced his interest in the Junior Stars coaching vacancy after Woodstock Daily Mail reports had him being the candidate IFF Chairman Terry Mangione had in mind for the coaching vacancy.

"Sure, I'm interested in taking the position," Zentrescu said. "I've always wanted the opportunity to lead-coach a national side, and this would give me that chance."

"We're very excited about this response we've received," Mangione said. "To have the coach of the reigning World Cup champions interested in taking over our side is a major feather in our caps. And Zentrescu has done a marvelous job for Pacitalia. We feel very fortunate."

Junior Stars assistant coach Troy Perkins has also expressed interest in the head coaching position, though some journalists view the former starting goalkeeper for the senior national team as a longshot.

"If Perkins becomes head coach, it will probably be xenophobia or worse," a source close to the team said. "You don't look down your nose at the coach of the World champions and a coach from one of your closest allies unless you have something wrong up here," she said, tapping her forehead with her right index finger.

Mangione said interviews would be conducted and a decision would be announced "in due time."

[OOC: Nedalia and Pacitalia, please TG me a "presentation" from your characters with information like what offensive system, what defence, you
want to play, what you think you'd do with the roster, etc. I'll make my decision and post the result here. Good luck! :)]

[OOC: Nedalia and Pacitalia, please TG me a "presentation" from your characters with information like what offensive system, what defence, you
want to play, what you think you'd do with the roster, etc. I'll make my decision and post the result here. Good luck! :)]\

OOC: Sure, but I'll do that after school.

To: Football Association of Nedalia
Kafra


First let me congratulate you on The Lions well deserved triumph in the Under-21 World Cup, ever since your extraordinary debut Nedalia has seemed almost destined to be where they are today.

Let me also assure all those involved with The Lions team that any words exchanged between our two sides in the run up to our match were purely in the heat of the moment and here in Hypocria we have nothing but respect and admiration for the achievements of The Lions. I sincerely hope we will meet again in many more international competitions, hopefully producing matches as exciting as a first encounter although perhaps with slightly differing outcomes.

Yours,

Alex Scott
Hypocrian FA
Hypocrium

Kodikits u21 News

Kodikits Robbed By Connie, Settle For Second

A cheap goal made by Nedalian star Constantine helps give the Lions a 2-1 victory over the Kodikits in Chicanada's first ever u21 Final appearance.

*grumble grouble grouble goes the Chicanadan Press. So distraught they are they did not finish th article but sent their congrats to Nedalia anyways. Hell, third time might be the charm to beat those damn Lions ;)*

Pacitalians congratulate Chicanada despite loss

Pacitalia congratulated the Kodikits from the Federated Cantons of Chicanada after their 2-1 loss to Nedalia, praising their hard work and effort to get to the finals which sadly resulted, ultimately, in a loss.

"They kept it close and kept it exciting, and didn't give Nedalia that much breathing room despite losing," defensive coach Paolo Marzanisato said today. "I liked the way they formed their defence in the game, it should certainly be commended."

Despite losing in the final, just one step away from all the glory, Chicanada still receives a high seeding for the next U21 cup by making it that far. It is predicted that many "power teams" will remain in the top 10 rankings, including Rejistania, Starblaydia, Sarzonia, Pacitalia and Fmjphoenix and now, new power teams like Nedalia, Chicanada, Hockey Canada and Spruitland.

Breaking News
___________________________________________
Pacitalia most likely to adopt national animal as squad name

After months of consideration of names, and years of fans demanding why Pacitalia was one of few nations who did not have a national squad nickname, it appears a choice has been made on the new official name of the team, both at the World Cup / CONCACAF level.

Pacitalia will adopt the name the "Blue Foxes", based, of course on the distinctive national animal that is found only in Pacitalia. A stylised logo will soon be released which compliments the new name. The jerseys will be modified to include the new logo and the colour scheme, a dark blue, light blue, medium gray and white. The red and green will no longer be present on the jerseys except for the stylised Football Administration of Pacitalia logo which sees the national flag on the left of the logo morphing into a football on the right.

The national public was asked to vote on the FAP website at http://www.fap-afp.org.rp/polls/name, and over 1.85 million loyal U21 fans cast their vote. 59.5% chose the Blue Foxes moniker, followed by 23.6% for the Medinamu, the plural form of the unique macaw-like bird that lives along Pacitalia's Gulferan and Caribbean posts, and into Moepoeia as well.

A press conference is expected in the near future to announce the new logo and show the new jerseys.

Fmjphoenix Under 21 Chairman congradulates Nedalia for championship

The FAF Under 21 Chairman, Tobias Brown, would like to congradulate the Nedalian Under 21 squad on their assention to the championship. He recognizes their excelent efforts and proclaims them as a future superpower in the footballing world.

"Even though we would like to get back to the top, we congradulate the Lions and praise their fast assention into a champtionship squad. We hope for their continued success, except against us of course." Brown said earlier today in Vanguard.

Junior Stars announce new coach

With two foreign candidates and assistant coach and national hero Troy Perkins in the running for the Sarzonian Under 21 national team's vacant head coaching position, Incorporated Football Federation Chairman Terry Mangione had a very difficult decision to make. He had four candidates, including himself, to pick between and "quality everywhere you look."

Finally, he had to make a decision. In the end, despite a "blow you away," interview by Perkins, Mangione decided to name Brent Vent, the head coach of the world champion Nedalia Lions as the team's new head coach, beating out Pacitalia assistant coach Lindifeu Zentrescu and Perkins.

"Lindifeu was impressive and I liked his defencive philosophy," Mangione said. "However, my preferred system is a 4-4-2, which is what Vent employs. We believe our talent is also well-suited to the system he employs, and we can't argue with an experienced head coach and a World Cup championship winning coach."

"I'm disappointed," Perkins said. "But hopefully, there'll be another opportunity for me to serve as a head coach somewhere down the line."

The Junior Stars plan to have a Meet The Coach day at their training facility in Saugerties, a suburb of Sarzonia's capital Woodstock. The team's returning veterans are expected to be led by midfielder Jenna Raven, who played only one match in this past World Cup due to an injury in Sarzonia's 3-2 loss to Pacitalia, and by midfielder Jarret Sanderson.

"I think Coach Vent is going to be great for this programme," Sanderson said. "I look forward to seeing what he's going to come up with for us."

Santo Castorini: I'm sad for Zentrescu but happy for Pacitalia

The Incorporated Football Federation, Sarzonia's governing authority on the sport of football, announced through Terry Mangione it had chosen Nedalian manager Brent Vent over Pacitalian assistant coach Lindifeu Zentrescu. The move was not a shock, as Zentrescu does not have a two-time finals reach and one U21 World Cup victory to show for his talents, like Vent does.

Also, as Mangione argued, the Pacitalian's defensive style of play was a good idea and solidly thought-out, but the fact that Sarzonian football remains continuously centred on a pro-attack style of play was the other major reason why Vent, who promoted the same style of system as currently used by the Sarzonians, was chosen over Zentrescu.

"I'm definitely disappointed for Zentrescu," Head Coach Marapazzo Santo Castorini said today. "He had a real shot at that position and just lost it, but at least it was to a good candidate and not a random ruffian. I am happy for Pacitalia though - they get to keep an outstanding assistant coach with them for the next cups."

Brent Vent had been the coach of Nedalia for a rather respectable long tenure, guiding them to the finals twice and this time around, winning the U21 World Cup's sixteenth incarnation with a 2-1 victory over Chicanada. Vent, it is rumoured, despite the two reasons listed above, still only narrowly beat out Zentrescu and Sarzonian assistant coach and national football hero Troy Perkins for the title.

Zentrescu, however, could still earn the position if Vent declines, which is unlikely considering Vent's desire to get the position.

A letter reaches the IFF, a letter from Liverpool England. As one might see, it is not from a Liverpool Englander but from a Rejistanian. One can see it on the envelope already since the name of the country is written in English and Rejistanian. Also in the letter, it is seen that the person has not that much experience with writing letters in English. He compensates it with rejistanian polite forms.


Hejida -simu'he!

Hearing that you are searching for a new coach for the U21 team, I would like to apply for this job. I am Syku "SyLy" Lyku and before you ask, 'the' SyLy. I coached the rejistanian Orange-Blues but was made unemployed after a number of losses. I found another job in Liverpool England to coach the national team, now my contract is running out and sources inside of the FALE say that I am not offered a new one. Since I am an ex-striker and no karelan, I do not want to spend much time in Rejistania while searching for a new job. It would affect me too much, I guess. In the hope for a positive reply,
Yours faithfully,
Syku Lyku

The letter was signed in rejistanian letters, but he wrote in brackets (Syku Lyku Hanin'tes)

Jeruselem Government News

New coach for Jeruselem

The Jeruselem FA and Minister for Sport David Becks (also a former World Cup player) appointed a new coach for the Jeruselem U21s for U21C17. Former world cup Jeruselem striker Mannie Jones took over today and started preparations for U21C17.

He said "We are going to get our defenses into shape. While U21C14 and C15 were great, C16 showed up defensive frailties. I'm going to use the techniques from our successful World Cup teams of late of beef up our defense and get the best of the offense. It's going to be hard work but with Strikers like Jennifer Hawkins around, all you need is supply them the ball and not give it up to the opponent"

A Look Back


With U21 World Cup 16 now a memory we look back at a tournament to remember for The Hyppos.


Matchday 1
Hypocria 2 - 3 Starblaydia


The Group A campaign with the 11th ranked Hyppos meeting joint top seeds and former champions Starblaydia. Despite matching their opponents for portions of the game and taking a 2-1 lead through a debut goal for Karic and West’s first, of what would be a great personal tournament, the Starblaydis showed their class in the second half to win the match.


Matchday 2
Hypocria 5 - 3 Kylaai


Despite a good record in the Cup of Harmony Kylaai has an undistinguished history in the U21s and were unranked in the tournament. This did not stop them giving The Hyppos a real scare in this encounter. At 3-2 down at halftime Hypocria were 45 minutes from being dumped out of the tournament. But a magnificent second half turned the match on its head and secured a vital three points for The Hyppos. The goals came courtesy of Kreska, Golla, Burdali (2) and substitute Blanco.


Matchday 3
Hypocria 3 - 2 South Osettia


This match against the group’s bottom side again showcased The Hyppos attacking talent but also their shaky defense. Two strikes from Danny West had given Hypocria a commanding lead inside the first 20 minutes before a SO goal just before the break. The South Osettians equalized in the second half but on 76 minutes West set up midfielder Burdali who got the goal that sent Hypocria into the second round.


Group A
Name P W D L F A GD Pts
Starblaydia 3 3 0 0 9 3 6 9
Hypocria 3 2 0 1 10 8 2 6
Kylaai 3 1 0 2 7 11 -4 3
South Osettia 3 0 0 3 6 10 -4 0



Second Round
Hypocria 3 - 2 Pacitalia


The game against 16 seeds Pacitalia could have gone either way. Twice The Hyppos took the lead through Karic and Baxter and twice the opponents equalized. Danny West would once again prove the hero with his goal 10 minutes from time that settled the match and secured a place in the Quarter Final.


Quarter Final
Hypocria 2 - 5 Nedalia (aet)


Tensions between the rival camps ahead of the match lead to a game that was played at a furious tempo throughout. Over the 90 minutes there was little between The Hyppos and 6th ranked Nedalia. The Lions took the lead on 12 minutes, Burdali grabbed the equalizer just 3 minutes later. In the second half it was Hypocria who took the lead thanks to West’s fifth goal of the tournament but again the lead was short lived as 7 minutes later Nedalian star Constantine leveled the match.

The Lions would show why they would later go on to be crowned World Champions with a truly astounding display in extra time as they scored a further 3 goals to send a battered Hypocria home.



After the humiliating exiting two years ago this U21 World Cup 16 was something of a revelation. The Hyppos showed they were at home in the later stages and could toe to toe with some of the best players around. The Hypocrian players, knowing that call ups to the newly formed senior squad would be up for grabs in the near future, did themselves no harm at all. We are proud of them.

In two years time The Hyppos will return and with expectations growing they may well be looking to go a little bit further.



Player of the Tournament


Danny West

The striker showed just how good he is with 5 goals in as many games. As he is somewhat underappreciated by his coach at club level a move abroad could be on the cards.


Honourable Mentions


Marcus Baxter

Another wonderful tournament from the captain. Although he doesn’t always get the credit he deserves he is an integral part of the side. His ability at breaking up attacks and his wonderful range of passing should see him comfortably into the senior side. Scored a cracking goal against Pacitalia.


Bora Burdali

It was a touramnet to remember for Burdali as he caught the eye, hitting 4 goals in the process. The attacking midfielder oozed class with his quick feet, silky skills and his obvious eye for goal. Like Baxter should be a certainty for the senior squad. His 88th minute goal against Kylaai was voted Hypcoria’s goal of the tournament.

Former Nedalia U21 manager Brent Vent publicly accepted his new status as Sarzonia U21 manager today in front of the press and a few thousands supportive fans in Kafra.

“I wanted to accept the position here in Nedalia to show my appreciation for the fans, and ofcourse, my country. I was assistant manager when we got to the Finals in U21 World Cup 14, and ofcourse, the manager this past World Cup. Some people call me crazy for leaving a championship winning side, but its time to move on. New challenges await, and I could think of no better team to manage than the Sarzonian one.”

He further stated that despite losing out to him, Pacitalian assistant coach Zentrescu has a very bright future in the world of football, and even urged the Nedalian FA to consider him as a candidate for the now open position he formerly occupied.

“Zentrescu is a talented man. I am and will remain to be a big fan of the Pacitalian squad. I met him a few times, and we shared some nice conversation when they sat behind us for the Final Match. Very wise, very talented man. I urge the Nedalian FA to look into his credentials and atleast consider him to take up my old position.”

Nedalian senior squad manager, Randy Gamman, along with former U21 players such as Hans Lamm, Trent Hardman, Tim James, and Nene were all on sight to bid the manager a warm farewell. Gamman also had a few words to say.

“On behalf of my team, and the entire nation of Nedalia, we wish you good luck and hope you find all the success you deserve. Just don’t do it on Nedalia’s behalf!”

Vent served as Gamman’s assistant coach during the first run at the Finals in World Cup 14. The nation of Nedalia did its best to give him the warmest farewell, but one senses there is a hint of sadness and disappoint that he is leaving. However, the man must do what his heart tells him, and Sarzonia has now become every Nedalian’s second team.

Semi Finals
Starblaydia 1 Nedalia 2
Hockey Canada 0 Chicanada 2

Final seedings will be posted in 24 hours along with the 3PPO and Final Result.

Starblaydia Into 3rd-Place Match again!
Hard-Drive Failures Mean No-one knows what the hell is going on

Starblaydia moved into the Third-Place match after a loss to Nedalia, the Young Lions' first win over Starblaydia in three attempts. We think. The thing is, massive hard drive failures over the whole of Starblaydia have compromised all our journalists' and official sources of information so basically up could be down, Rejistania could be attacking and Hiiraan could be Sane.

Once the computer datery geeks get the problems sorted we'll have a full report on everything you lovely people have missed out on.

Within 24 hours. Darn.

Mangione went through the daily post since his secretary took a personal day. He threw out the usual circulars and junk mail and was set to throw one more envelope away until he noticed it had bilingual markings. One set was in a language he'd never seen before, but the other was in English.

He looked carefully and realised that the letter was being sent from Rejistania. But why? Mangione opened the letter, wincing as he got a paper cut since he didn't walk the 10 paces to his secretary's desk to get her letter opener. Putting his index finger in his mouth, he sat at his desk, propped his feet up on the mahogony surface, leaned back and read.

A little too late, he thought. That would have made it really difficult if Syku Lyku had been on time, he thought again. After he finished reading the letter, he looked for a Rejistanian phrase book. Finding none and cursing his luck, he reached into his desk and pulled out a Band Aid and applied it to his index finger. Then, he sat at his computer and typed the following letter:

Hejida!

First of all, please forgive me for my poor attempts at Rejistanian, but I wanted to take the opportunity to respond to your inquiry personally. Unfortunately, we received your letter after the search committee rendered a decision on the head coaching position for the Under 21 national side and we have selected former Nedalia Lions Coach Brent Vent as our new manager.

We appreciate the time you have put into this application and should we have any further openings, either at the Under 21 level or for the senior national team, we will keep your application on file and will contact you to gauge your interest.

Thank you once again for your interest in Sarzonian football.

Sincerely,

Terrence Mangione
Chairman
Incorporated Football FederationMangione folded the letter, put it in an envelope, addressed it using English and his best approximation of the Rejistanian address, then walked to the post room at the facility in downtown Woodstock.

"I've got a letter to go out to Rejistania."

"You're going to need another 58 cents on that envelope."

"Goddamnit! Jeez! All right." Mangione pulled out another two stamps, applied them to the envelope, and gave it to the clerk, who then looked at the envelope.

"I don't know how those Rejistanis are about this. I took two years of Rejistanian in uni and I can't make heads or tails of this," the clerk said.

Great. Thanks a fucking lot, Mangione thought. I hope this gets there.

Starblaydia Victorious for Bronze - Again!
Hockey Canada taken to Extra Time and Defeated

After losing to Nedalia for the first time ever at anything, Starblaydia redeemed themselves - marginally - by taking 120 minutes to beat Hockey Canada instead of the usual ninety.

This third-placed Play-off match marked Starblaydia's 60th victory at Under-21 Level in the 82 games thay have played. This ammount to a 73.1% win percentage in this tournament, stretching back over thirty years. Has any other team had such dominance of this Tournament? Rejistania or Bedistan, perhaps, a while back, or Jeruselem. Perhaps even Fmjphoenix more recently. But no-one seems to have held such an iron grip over winning games in this tournament for such a long period of time.

Although we can point to the fact that Starblaydia have only ever won the Championship once, they have been placed in the top-three for the last six tournaments. Twelve year's worth of consistent top-three finishing means that Starblaydi fans have come to expect a Semi-Final berth every two years, with anything less counted as a failure. Note also that Starblaydia have not lost a Third-Placed match in five attempts and have been in the Final on three occasions. Eight times in the Semis from Fourteen tournaments must surely point to Starblaydia's quality youth programmes.

By having young Starblaydis playing all over the world in foreign youth teams - currently Macia at the Eagles, Reynaldo and Mercutio in the 'Street, Kyrile in Rejistania - the Under-21 team is boosted by experience of different lands and styles, leading to a better-prepared team overall. That experience then translates to the Senior side, making Starblaydia one of the most feared and respected teams in the world.

Or so we like to think.

Jeruselem U21 Historical Society Newsletter, 26/05/2005

Nedalia won the U21C16 and become the 11th different winner of the U21 Championships. It was there 2nd attempt to win it after losing to FMJPhoenix in the U21C14 final. They join a list of names of great nations who have won the U21 Championships.

Reijistania have won 3 and still lead in this respect when they had a great run of wins before the great slump.

Teams with two wins include Jeruselem, Bedistan and FMJPhoenix. Jeruselem and FMJPhoenix still turn up in finals while still Bedistan are rebuilding their hopes.

The other teams have won one championship including Audioslavia, Total n Utter Insanity, Vilita, Druida, Starblaydia, Nedalia and Kingsford. Nedalia have made the last two finals in row while Starblaydia have been very unlucky not to get into more finals. Vilita are in a slump while the others have been overshadowed by new teams like Hockey Canada who have made inroads towards winning the final and Nedalia, who have made the final last two of three attempts.

As for U21C17, Nedalia start favourite with Starblaydia always a threat. However, Jeruselem have a strange history. Everytime they get dropped out of champions before the quarter-finals, they win the U21 within a few champions after. This happened for the win for III and IX.

OOC
Apologies for errors and inconsistencies :confused:

Jeruselem U21 Historical Society Newsletter, 26/05/2005

Nedalia won the U21C16 and become the 11th different winner of the U21 Championships. It was there 2nd attempt to win it after losing to FMJPhoenix in the U21C15 final. They join a list of names of great nations who have won the U21 Championships.

Reijistania have won 3 and still lead in this respect when they had a great run of wins before the great slump.

Teams with two wins include Jeruselem, Bedistan and FMJPhoenix. Jeruselem and FMJPhoenix still turn up in finals while still Bedistan are rebuilding their hopes.

The other teams have won one championship including Audioslavia, Total n Utter Insanity, Vilita, Druida, Starblaydia, Nedalia and Kingsford. Nedalia have made the last two finals in row while Starblaydia have been very unlucky not to get into more finals. Vilita are in a slump while the others have been overshadowed by new teams like Hockey Canada and Nedalia.

As for U21C17, Nedalia start favourite with Starblaydia always a threat. However, Jeruselem have a strange history. Everytime they get dropped out of champions before the quarter-finals, they win the U21 within a few champions after. This happened for the win for III and IX.

Yes... but where is HOCKEY CANADA's U21 world cup?

All Sorts of Statistical Interestingness
80th Match, 60th Win, 200th Goal

There's something to be said for random statistical garbage and after more than thirty years of history Starblaydia's Under-21s certainly have a lot of statistics.

Eighty-Two matches played, sixty of them wins and just thirteen losses before penalty shoot-outs. Over two-hundred goals racked up, the two-hundredth smashed in by Giovanni Lopez to seal a three-two victory over An archy in the Second Round of this very championship.

The sixtieth win in this competition came in the Third-Place Play-off, no less, Raul Diaz-Arca in extra time after Giovanni Lopez's equaliser against the Hockey Canadians, who have fast become one of the better Under-21 teams in the world. This is a fifth 3rd Place won by Starblaydia, to put with their bronze medals from Under-21 World Cups 5, 7, 11 & 12.

They've come a long way from those halcyon days some thirty-two years ago when Simeone Di Bradini scored the Under-21s first ever goal in a 4-2 loss to Europa Brittania.

Nedalia won the U21C16 and become the 11th different winner of the U21 Championships. It was there 2nd attempt to win it after losing to FMJPhoenix in the U21C15 final.

Nedalia lost in the Quarter Finals of U21WC15 to Starblaydia, who in turn lost to Fmjphoenix in the final. You may want to fire your researchers.

Third Place Playoff
Starblaydia 2 Hockey Canada 1 AET

Final
Nedalia 2 Chicanada 1

Final Seedings
1 Nedalia
2 Starblaydia
3 Fmjphoenix
4 Hockey Canada
5 Sarzonia
5 Jeruselem
7 Chicanada
8 Spruitland
9 Hypocria
10 Pacitalia
11 Rejistania
12 Vtorbetin
13 Kassyyk
14 East Lithuania
15 Cockbill Street
16 Gaian Ascendancy
17 Crystilakere
18 Oglethorpia
19 Oaker
20 Liverpool England
21 Bedistan
22 Atlantis of Vilita

Nedalia lost in the Quarter Finals of U21WC15 to Starblaydia, who in turn lost to Fmjphoenix in the final. You may want to fire your researchers.

Also, It was U21WC14 where Nedalia lost to Staryblaydia in the Finals, if I remember correctly.

10 Pacitalia

Did I not call that on #sport? Spruitland can back me up ;)

Still, I don't understand why I go down a seed especially with the number of RP posts I had, I should go up at least one seed, conceivably. Sarzonia, for example, posted just as much as I did and went up three seeds. Then, logically, I should too. I'm just a little confused, is all. Not mad. :)

Sarz has a much better record over the past 3 cups than you do.

Nedalia -
Starblaydia |
Fmjphoenix | High RPing, Good Record
Hockey Canada -
Sarzonia -
Jeruselem | High RPing, Decent Record
Chicanada -
Spruitland -
Hypocria |
Pacitalia | High RPing, Bad Record
Rejistania -
Vtorbetin -
Kassyyk |
East Lithuania | Medium RPing, Bad Record
Cockbill Street |
Gaian Ascendancy -
Crystilakere -
Oglethorpia |
Oaker |
Liverpool England | Low RPing, Bad Record
Bedistan |
Atlantis of Vilita -
Lovisa -
Oliverry | No RPing, Bad Record
Euroslavia -
Blessed Restraint - New Player

That's true. Okay, thanks for clearing that up for me :)

I have what's considered a bad record? Wow... harsh. ;)

What would you call 12 points for 10 matches?

What would you call 12 points for 10 matches?

After reading this some would think i've gone insane from all the laughing.

What would you call 12 points for 10 matches?

Decent, at least. That would incur I earned at least a point per match, or a tie.

55 Starblaydia
49 Fmjphoenix
47 Nedalia
38 Jeruselem
37 Hockey Canada
36 Sarzonia
32 Chicanada
18 Crystilakere
15 Spruitland
13 Cockbill Street
13 Gaian Ascendancy
12 Hypocria
12 Pacitalia
11 Rejistania
8 East Lithuania
8 Oaker
7 Kassyyk
7 Lovisa
5 Oglethorpia
5 Liverpool England
5 Bedistan
4 Oliverry
1 Euroslavia
0 Vtorbetin
0 Atlantis of Vilita
0 Blessed Restraint

It's not.

Please excuse me for the next 30 minutes from laughing

:p LMAO :p

Okay, I guess you and I have different definitions of decent, then.

Hmmm...zero points from three matches. That's kinda bad.

12 from 8. Could be better, could be worse.

No 7-0 defeats this time :D .

Have either of those other teams on zero even taken part in a competiton? I mean really take part?

Have either of those other teams on zero even taken part in a competiton? I mean really take part?

Atlantis of Vilita (a puppet of Vilita, of course) has occasionally RPd right at the end of a tournament to boost their rank a little, but for straight-up competing, I don't think so.

And Blessed Restraint? I have no idea.


EDIT: Oh yes, and

55 Starblaydia

When you go 18W 1D 2L over three Cups, I think that counts as a good performance :)

So my moderate participation gives me nothing. Great. I have a feeling this is going to happen a lot to me...

So my moderate participation gives me nothing. Great. I have a feeling this is going to happen a lot to me...

The effect of your participation in the U21 cup will be noticable in the next one. You're ranked 12th now, that's not a bad ranking to start your second tournament. It's highly doubtful you'll lose all your games in U21WC17.

So my moderate participation gives me nothing. Great. I have a feeling this is going to happen a lot to me...


The RP bonus is staggered, what you contribute in one cup will count for the next.

Like Spruitland said, you will see a much better Vtorbetin performance in the next competition.

The RP bonus is staggered, what you contribute in one cup will count for the next.

Like Spruitland said, you will see a much better Vtorbetin performance in the next competition.

I meant on a more universal basis, such as in the World Cup, Cherry Cup, etc. I know the ins and outs of the U21WC - I researched. ;)

Hockey Canadians pumped for next U21WC

With the recent debate over the current rankings for the Under 21 World Cup 17, Hockey Canada plans to try to best that by winning their first championship so they they will join greats like Rejistania, Nedalia, Starblaydia and Fmjphoenix. The cup will be the last time quite a few players will get a chance to play for their U21 team, players like Yanic Perrault and Rahul Kulkarni are both 20 and cannot compete in the tournement again. Mike Feznak will be back, the 21 year old midfielder is expected to have a great tournement. 19 year old Mike Ko should have another cup to go for him, but we know he won't be scoring here forever.

Youth coming up in the ranks that will be dealt with is Kyle Thomas. He'll be 16 for this cup providing keeping skills for the system karela-based team. Thomas plays for Cefn Albion, who finished 5th last season and is expected to do much better in the years to come. Perrault is also doing good, although he seems to be up for sale on the team transfer market floating around for a team to claim him. Kulkarni on the other hand is rumoured to be heading off to Bedistan, although nothing is for sure.

Hockey Canada's coach, Toe Blake, will be looking for releif after the World Cup Qualifier which Hockey Canada is in a struggle to get in to. Now with 3 matchdays left, it seems like anybody's game.

Hockey Canada is now in the hunt for their Under 21 Championship. For players departing the U21 scene after the cup, you can bet they'll play harder than ever.

SYSTEM KARELA!!!