NationStates Jolt Archive

ATTN: Don't Even Think About Posting in this Thread without a direct invitation from Vilita.



Pre-World Cup 25 Baptism of Fire Cup
Hosted in:
Vilita & Bettia

Rosters, RP and Scores Thread

---------------Hello, and welcome to the 12th Baptism of Fire Cup (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Baptism_of_Fire) , The only official Warm-Up tournament to the famous Nationstates World Cup (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/World_Cup). This is the place for you to post your team rosters, find out how you are doing and report on your teams performances! This seasons Baptism of Fire Cup will see World Cup 22's Baptism of Fire Cup champions, Bettia, make the jump into official tournament hosting for the first time. This will be the fourth time in the history of the Baptism of Fire Cup that former champions returned to make the jump into tournament hosting. As always, the other half of the field will be playing in the beautiful Tropics of Vilita, located in the center of Atlantian Oceania, the most widely recognized footballing region in Nationstates. This seasons tournament promises to be one of the most exciting ever. If you are eligible, you should be receiving a telegram shortly from the hosts, and should begin posting your Rosters and Pre-Tournament Reports now!

---------------The Baptism of Fire is a pre-World Cup tournament for debutant teams to send their World Cup squad to their first warm-up competition to gain vital experience (and crucial KPB-ranking points (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/KPB_ranking_system) ). For instance, the WC17 BoF runner-up, Aquiliana, jumped from rank 200 (new nation status) to rank 69, and made it to the Quarter-Finals of the 17th World Cup, this is both a huge leap and a nigh-on unbelievable performance, just shows you what RPing can produce. Consider, also, that a nation that played in the BoF without being active merely went from 200 up to 183, and finished last in their World Cup Qualifying group. The BoF is not just a chance for New Clubs to get a start on their careers in the NS World Cup, but also new hosts, with Starblaydia, Lethislavania, South Osettia and Legalese all getting their starts as hosts in the Baptism of Fire Cup before going on to host the World Cup.

---------------Unlike the proper World Cup, RP bonus (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/RP-bonus) is extremely important in the BoF, as all teams start off equal. This means that if one nation has a better RP bonus than another, they have a better chance of winning. Roleplaying your matches gives you a better chance of winning your matches. RP Bonus will be the only seperator in the pack. We hope that the non-participating nations will be weeded out or at least noted prior to the start of the World Cup, as we like to feel special by you RPing in our tournaments, so we give you bonues to help you win.

---------------There will be two sections in the competition, The Bettia Section and the Vilita Section. Each team will play one match against the other teams in their group, followed by Knockout Rounds within their own Section. The Champions of the Bettia Section and the Vilita Section will meet at the Tivali Ring Stadium in Alikki-Corra, Vilita for the BoF Final.


You may also wish to view the last BoF threads :
WC24 (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=433650) - WC23 (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=421872) - WC22 (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=410633) - WC21 (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=397065) - WC20 (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=385907) - WC19 (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=374306) - WC18 (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=364185) - WC17 (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=349645)


The Following Nations have been Invited to Participate in the Cup (27/28)

Alan Shearer Heaven - An Archy - Anathematic Republics - Andossa Se Mitrin Vega - Athestan - Aztec Kingdom - Bakostrovia - Collonie - Corruptomania - Crendonia - Cuation - Israel4Ever - Jacobian Tribes - Kudlastan - Kunar - Michael Sticklandttttt - Newcommunist Republics - Pastorville - Ratlea - Revolutionarian Island - Rordia - RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo - Spookyville - The Gupta Dynasty - The Macabees - The Solar Association

The Baptism of Fire Cup Group Stage Draw will take place in Yeaddin, Vilita outside the Lirai Asku Castle, home of one of the most successful club teams in nationstates history, the Yeaddin Owls. This draw will be presented live over IRC network clients. If you have IRC (www.mirc.com (http://www.mirc.com)) You can join the live chat by connecting to irc.esper.net and logging on to the channel #sport for more information. The channel is active 24 hours a day.


Matchday Schedule*:

MD1: Friday 10.07
MD2: Saturday 10.08
MD3: Sunday 10.09
MD4: Monday 10.10
MD5: Tuesday 10.11

2R: Thursday 10.13
QF: Friday 10.14
SF: Saturday 10.15

*If you wish for your RPs to be counted before a particular matchday, make sure they are posted the day before scorination. We will not be held responsible for scores being posted just seconds/minutes before you post your RP. It should be for fun not score anyway, so it will just count for the next matchday should this happen.



Regional Match Schedules:



Vilitan Region

Group C:

1- Cuation
2- The Macabees
3- Athestan
4- The Gupta Dynasty
5- Crendonia



Matchday 1
Cuation v. The Macabees - ( National View Stadium ) -
Athestan v. The Gupta Dynasty - ( Lirai Asku Castle ) -


Matchday 2
Cuation v. Athestan - ( Lirai Asku Castle ) -
The Gupta Dynasty v. Crendonia - ( National View Stadium ) -


Matchday 3
Cuation v. The Gupta Dynasty - ( National View Stadium ) -
Crendonia v. The Macabees - ( Lirai Asku Castle ) -


Matchday 4
Cuation v. Crendonia - ( Lirai Asku Castle ) -
Athestan v. The Macabees - ( National View Stadium ) -


Matchday 5
The Macabees v. The Gupta Dynasty - ( National View Stadium ) -
Athestan v. Crendonia - ( Lirai Asku Castle ) -


Group T:

1- The Solar Association
2- Aztec Kingdom
3- Pastorville
4- Anathematic Republics
5- Rordia


Matchday 1
The Solar Association v. Aztec Kingdom - ( The Shultis ) -
Pastorville v. Anathematic Republics - ( Marine World Park ) -


Matchday 2
The Solar Association v. Pastorville - ( Marine World Park ) -
Anathematic Republics v. Rordia - ( The Shultis ) -


Matchday 3
The Solar Association v. Anathematic Republics - ( The Shultis ) -
Rordia v. Aztec Kingdom - ( Marine World Park ) -


Matchday 4
The Solar Association v. Rordia - ( Marine World Park ) -
Pastorville v. Aztec Kingdom - ( The Shultis ) -


Matchday 5
Aztec Kingdom v. Anathematic Republics - ( The Shultis ) -
Pastorville v. Rordia - ( Marine World Park ) -


Group Y:

1- Kudlastan
2- Spookyville
3- Ratlea
4- Alan Shearer Heaven



Matchday 1
Kudlastan v. Spookyville - ( Lunar Park ) -
Ratlea v. Alan Shearer Heaven - ( Lopinka National Stadium ) -


Matchday 2
Alan Shearer Heaven v. Kudlastan - ( Lopinka National Stadium ) -
Ratlea v. Spookyville - ( Lunar Park ) -


Matchday 3
Kudlastan v. Ratlea - ( Lunar Park ) -
Spookyville v. Alan Shearer Heaven - ( Lopinka National Stadium ) -


Matchday 4
(Runner Up) v. (3rd Placed) - ( Lopinka National Stadium ) -


Matchday 5
(3rd Placed) v. (Runner Up) - ( Lunar Park ) -


In Groups C & T, Each team will play each other once over MD1-MD5. At the end of five matchdays, the top 3 teams will advance to the Second Round.
*In Group Y, Each team will play each other once over MD1-MD3, at which point the group winner will advance to the second round. The 2nd and 3rd placed teams will continue in a two-legged matchup to take place over MD4-MD5, and the winner of this will also advance to the second round.

Bettia Region


Group G:

1- An archy
2- Newcommunist Republics
3- Corruptomania
4- Andossa Se Mitrin Vega
5- Bakostrovia


Matchday 1:
Newcommunist Republics vs Bakostrovia (Stamping Gound, Lorshill)
Corruptomania vs Andossa Se Mitrin Vega (Shubunkin Park, Akani Sands)

Matchday 2:
Corruptomania vs An Archy (Stamping Ground, Lorshill)
Bakostrovia vs Andossa Se Mitrin Vega (Shubunkin Park, Akani Sands)

Matchday 3:
Newcommunist Republics vs Andossa Se Mitrin Vega (Stamping Ground, Lorshill)
An Archy vs Bakostrovia (Shubunkin Park, Akani Sands)

Matchday 4:
Newcommunist Republics vs An Archy (Stamping Ground, Lorshill)
Bakostrovia vs Corruptomania (Shubunkin Park, Akani Sands)

Matchday 5:
Newcommunist Republics vs Corruptomania (Stamping Ground, Lorshill)
An Archy vs Andossa Se Mitrin Vega (Shubunkin Park, Akani Sands)


Group A:

1- Da Philelfya Empiya
2- Revolutionarian Island
3- Shearer Hell
4- Michael Sticklandttttt
5- Jacobian Tribes


Matchday 1:
Revolutionarian Island vs Jacobian Tribes (Campus Ground, Grappenhall)
Shearer Hell vs Michael Stricklandttttt (Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton)

Matchday 2:
Shearer Hell vs Da Philelfya Empiya (Campus Ground, Grappenhall)
Jacobian Tribes vs Michael Stricklandttttt (Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton)

Matchday 3:
Revolutionarian Island vs Michael Stricklandttttt (Campus Ground, Grappenhall)
Da Philelfya Empiya vs Jacobian Tribes (Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton)

Matchday 4:
Revolutionarian Island vs Da Philelfya Empiya (Campus Ground, Grappenhall)
Jacobian Tribes vs Shearer Hell (Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton)

Matchday 5:
Revolutionarian Island vs Shearer Hell (Campus Ground, Grappenhall)
Da Philelfya Empiya vs Michael Stricklandttttt (Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton)


Group S:

1- Kunar
2- Israel4Ever
3- Collonie
4- RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo

Matchday 1:
Kunar vs RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo (Thamitra Gate, Tamrida)
Israel4Ever vs Collonie (Al-Fath Stadium, Sukatra)

Matchday 2:
Collonie vs Kunar (Thamitra Gate, Tamrida)
RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo vs Israel4Ever (Al-Fath Stadium, Sukatra)

Matchday 3:
Collonie vs RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo (Thamitra Gate, Tamrida)
Kunar vs Israel4Ever (Al-Fath Stadium, Sukatra)

Matchday 4 (Qualification Playoff, 1st Leg):
2nd vs 3rd (Thamitra Gate, Tamrida)

Matchday 5 (Qualification Playoff, 2nd Leg):
2nd vs 3rd (Al-Fath Stadium, Sukatra)


In Groups G & A, Each team will play each other once over MD1-MD5. At the end of five matchdays, the top 3 teams will advance to the Second Round.
*In Group S, Each team will play each other once over MD1-MD3, at which point the group winner will advance to the second round. The 2nd and 3rd placed teams will continue in a two-legged matchup to take place over MD4-MD5, and the winner of this will also advance to the second round.

So, what can be said about Israel4Ever's national football team?
It is made of some of the most famous football players in the region, though this is the first time Israel4Ever's national team get to play in an overseas international tournament.

This is the full roster which the national coach, Avraham Grant, has published to the press just a few hours ago:
http://img344.imageshack.us/img344/5198/clipboard020qa.jpg

Mr. Grant also said to the press: "We are very excited and proud to represent the great nation of Israel4Ever in this year's Baptism of Fire Cup. I'm sure we will do well and represent Israel4Ever as best as we can".

The national captain, Avi Nimni: "I think I'm speaking for everyone in the team when I say that we are very proud to be chosen by our coach to represent Israel4Ever in this year's cup. We will have some tough times, but I'm sure we will do well".

Press release from the ASMV Sports & Competition Ministry 10-2-05

>Minister of S & C - Lord Phillippe Boudreaux

"This is an exciting day for the Principality. Our national soccer team has been extended an invitation to join the Baptism of Fire tournament. This represents the beginning of a new era for our national sports programs as we expand to compete on a global scale. We wish to extend our support to the team which will be known as the Sea Dragons. Please join us in the support of our team as they travel to compete in this most prestigious event."

Team info:
Team Name - Sea Dragons
Team Colors - Columbia Blue & Yellow

Coaching Staff
Name - Age - Pos
Edgar Moroni - 49 - GM
Alain D'Champaign - 32 - Head Coach
Elizabeth Chatman - 29 - Asst Coach - Offense
N'Djai Mabuto - 30 - Asst Coach - Defense
Roberto Ricci - 24 - Director of Scouting
DeAngelo Montego - 26 - Head Trainer

Players
No. Name - Club - Age -Pos
1 Shaun Conarky - Errion Vega - 20 - GK
2 Ibrahim Kalun - Voque - 28 - Gk
3 Tomas Carrington - Tierra del Mar - 21 - D
4 Unami Banta-N'bai - Modesto - 27 - D
5 Wesley Haim - Millsport - 19 - D
6 Micah Swift - Tapia Reis - 23 - D
7 Mikiel Rasputin - Errion Vega - 27 - M
8 Floyd Carlisle - Errion Vega - 22 - M
9 Uri Volkov - Tapia Reis - 30 - M
10 Sajid Muhammed - Tierra del Mar - 18 - M
11 Xavier Cage - Panderros Que - 24 - M
12 Pablo Iglesias - Errion Vega - 19 - F
13 Malachi James - Voque - 26 - F
14 Evan Evans - Milsport - 21 - F
15 Pao St Martinique - Amarillo - 23 - F
16 Biccardi Maumalle - Errion Vega - 29 - D
17 Kyle Vanderpol - Amarillo - 18 - D
18 Justin Case - Panderros Que - 20 - M
19 Langston Dirks - Modesto - 25 - F
20 Vladmir Ivanisi - Tapia Reis - 22 - F

It's an honor to participate within the Baptism of Fire tournament, and it will be an even greater honor to go from the Baptism of Fire to the World Cup, which we hopefully be able to do. For this Baptism of Fire we have recruited the most able football players within our national league, which is reknown throughout the region as one of the best. Nonetheless, we expect that our standing as opposed to the world will not be as great as our regional standings.

For statistics, our team is composed of the following players:

Hans Kahn: Goalkeeper
Derik Vander: Goalkeeper
Johan Mier: Defender
Franz Xavier: Defender
Joan Tienan: Defender
Karl Zeyer: Defender
Fedor Bietz: Defender
David Keitel: Midfielder
Jon Ferech: Midfielder
Udo Koch: Midfielder
Bruno Utscher: Midfielder
Jorg Carlische: Midfielder
Edhard Gruber: Foward
Froemer Paulus: Foward
Franz Siedlitz: Foward
Otto Mannerheim: Foward
Wilhelm Großkopf: Foward
Mikhail Kleitz: Foward

This have been recruited from the absolute best national teams throughout the country, including the Fedala Imperials.

Our staff is:

Kristoff Neider: Manager
Leo Benz: Head Coach
Uder Seriech: Defensive Coach
Hans Versol: Offensive Coach
Sophie Alech: Head Trainer

Kit: http://www.modernwarstudies.net/soccerjersey.gif

Parid Post-Today-Times-Tribune-Daily-News-Subjagation-Update-Dispatch-Telegram


Collonie announces roster for BoF Cup. Misterson expected to lead team



The Colony of Collonie the colony and U.N. representative of Milchama has announced its first ever roster for its first ever tournament in international football the 12th Baptism of Fire Cup in Vilita and Bettia. The Milchamian coach Natan Schlomit said, "This is a first for the great nation of Collonie and we hope to perform well in this cup. We really have no clue about how the other teams will do but it we like our chances."
The roster:

Starters:
Gk Floyd Chooler
D Thomas Cornt
D Meir Ben Moshe
D Paris Klesterfeud
D Amit Luton
M Quentin Myler
M Bobby Connon
M Kevin Mirshmon
F Kate Windsor
F Clyde Misterson (captain)
F Owen Micheals
Subs:
Gk Larry Koot
D Thomos Barry
D Barry Thomos
M Allan Merchant
F Avi Gould

Sirach Post-Dispatch
2 October 2005

"Brunner, Zhen, Zhou To Lead Blues In Baptism of Fire"

SIRACH -- The Ministry of Sports and Leisure released today the final roster for the team Jacobian Tribes will field at this year's World Cup and Baptism of Fire.

The Blues, as the national team is popularly known, will be coached by journeyman Hans Brunner. Brunner, formerly head coach of five other national teams, is known for assisting new or struggling teams to achieve international respectability. Assisting will be political advisor Zhen Teng of the Sports and Leisure Ministry and religious advisor Msgnr. Zhou Tan.

"The Blues will make a good showing at the Baptism of Fire," said Brunner. "What we lack in experience, we more than make up for in passion, patriotism, and purity of heart. Other teams will do well not to underestimate us."

Roster (No.):
* denotes starter

*CHI Jin-Wei (11) ----------------- GK
*CHEN Fang (16) ------------------ D
*Antonio DELAROSA (87) --------- M
Alfred DENG (6) ------------------ F
Yakob ERGANOV (15) ------------ F
*GAO Deng (9) -------------------- D
*HA Er-Ping (51) ------------------ F
Richard LI (28) ------------------- M
LIU Man-Hui (3) ------------------ D
*Antonio LUDO (61) --------------- F
*Lieb MATZENHEIMER (2) --------- F
*Antonio SERRA (32) -------------- M
*Rudolfo VESPICELLI (70) --------- D
YANG Xiao-Bing (58) ------------- D
ZHANG En-Chou (73) ------------- D
*Emily ZHANG (23) ---------------- M
*Evelyn ZHANG (54) --------------- M
ZHANG Peng (25) ----------------- F
ZHEN En-Lai (97) ----------------- GK
ZHEN Bao (12) -------------------- M

-Newcommunist Republics at Worldcup 25-
For the first time ever, the Newcommunist Republics have established a national football-team. After the revolution the country had much problems and interests - competing in international sports was none of them. So this team is not only a indicator for the cultural developement of our country, but even more for our economical recovery. Over the past few years, the regional leagues of Newcommunist Republics have set the basic conditions, that made this team possible. None of them ever competed in international sports and we can be excited how good they will be, when being compared to more experienced Teams. Fortunately the Newcommunist Republics have signed up for Baptism of Fire Cup, a chance to gain Experience at games with other Nations, which are new to the world cup, too. Anyways, we wish you all luck, but of course especially the Team of Newcommunist Republics!
- from the Marxgrad Gazette
The Team:
1 Karl Heine - Goalkeeper
2 Ivan Dolgich - Goalkeeper
3 Heinz Nickel - Defender
4 Wladimir Juschtschenko - Defender
5 Mikhail Juschtschenko - Defender
6 Tom Aleksandrov - Defender
7 James Marx - Midfielder
8 Arthur Loyd - Midfielder
9 Jan Tereschkow - Midfielder
10 Mikhail Watts - Midfielder
11 Hans Meier - Midfielder
12 Mikhail Müller - Foward
13 Peter Grey - Foward
14 Andrew Gogol - Foward
15 Nathaniel Archer - Foward

The Coaches are: Lennard Niemitz and Ivan Borisovitch

Pastorville Roster

Head Coach: Reverend Brown
Assistant Coach: Reverend Carter
Goalie Coach: Reverend Larson
Trainer: Reverend Luther

G: Reverend Smith*
G: Reverend Smooth
D: Reverend Johnson*
D: Reverend Paulson*
D: Reverend Anderson*
D: Reverend Williams*
D: Reverend Allen*
D: Reverend Graham*
D: Reverend Douglas*
D: Reverend West
D: Reverend Rollins
D: Reverend Hollins
D: Reverend Lake
D: Reverend Peterson
D: Reverend Young
D: Reverend Small
M: Reverend Carlson*
M: Reverend King*
M: Reverend Smith
M: Reverend Hall
F: Reverend Harris*
F: Reverend Roberts

*-denotes starters

PASTORVILLE READY TO BEGIN BAPTISM BY FIRE

Praying2God star striker Thomas Larson recently made a visit to Pastorville to help prepare ally Pastorville for what they'll see in international soccer competition, and left quite impressed. "They should do well for themselves," Larson told the Pastorville press as he was leaving, "I pity the teams that they'll face in the BoF." Pastorville will be playing a karela-like 7-2-1, focusing on preventing their opponents from scoring. Pastorville has certainly looked impressive in their workouts, and many people expect Pastorville to be a nation that outperforms their closest ally in international competition.

Head coach: Nishikigori Yaeko
Defending coach: Kamachi Sumi
Attacking coach: Matsumoto Yoshioko
Captain to team: Mishina Utako (right Middlefielder starter)

Starters:
Goalkeeper: Hayashida Masuko
Backers: Nagaokita Nari (long right), Rokugo Kata (near right), Itazaki Ruri (near left), Wakizaka Kumi (long left)
Middlefielders: Mishina Utako (right), Fukazawa Taki (left)
Attackers: Yui Kiyoko (long right), Odaka Koto (near right), Kanemaru Ujikiko (near left), Tokudaiji Mon (long left)

Reservers: Iizuka Teruoko (G/B), Oki Sadako (G/B/left M), Shibuki Yuriko (right B/right M), Gojo Sute (B/M/A), Iyohara Ai (left B/left M/left A), Kuroyanagi Mikie (M/A), Senbon Nori (M/A), Kashida Naoki (A), Asakura Kazashi (A)

Play is with 4-2-4 formation.



To note! All are female on team.
A note regarding the politeness. The Japanese names placed the family names first, then the individual name. It would be impolite, in order to call John Jones "Mr. John"; he is Mr. Jones. It is as impolite equal, in order to call Nishikigori Yaeko "Ms Yaeko"; she is Ms Nishikigori.
http://tinypic.com/ddoot3.jpg

The Bowels of Hell

The demon grimaced. His assignment had been to find a coach for the newly assembled squad of heretics that would challenge the holy Orthodox footballers of the Archregimancy and of the New Montreal States. But every dead coach he had unearthed had been here so long that all memories except those of his sins had been burned away.

He barreled off to Admissions for what had to have been the thousandth time.

"Ah, Cestus, I think I found your man."

The demon turned to the imp seated at the desk.

"Jene-Rene Filon, late of NMS. Multiple murders and recent suicide. Killed four of his players after a really bad loss in World Cup 24."

The demon smiled. Here was his man.

ANATHEMATIC REPUBLICS BOF ROSTERS

Coach: Jean-Rene Filon, murderer and suicide, late of the New Montreal States. The best coach who still had his wits about him.

Defense:

Arius - leader of the Arians, a group that denied the equality of Jesus Christ with God the father. Also, unbeknownst to most people, a superlative tackler.
Asterius the Sophist - one of the foremost pupils of Arius.
Nestorius, Patriarch of Constantinople - preached that the Virgin Mary did not give birth to Jesus Christ as God, but as a human

Midfield:

Donatus - challenged the unity of the Church in Northern Africa back when there were Christians there by denouncing the Emperor's position as a church leader
Priscillian of Avila - the first person executed for heresy, and also the team captain
Simon Magus - the father of all dark sorceries and mages. Preached that he was a god. Had been given the ability to levitate and fly as a dark power.
Marcion of Sinope - founded a church of his own strong enough to challenge the one true Church

Forwards:

Constantine V - leading iconoclast. Hopefully he'll be as agressive on the pitch as he was against the defenders of the holy images.
Leo IX - Pope who generated the final split of the Orthodox and Catholic Churches
Enrico Dandolo - masterminded the capture and sack of Constantinople during the 4th crusade

An announcement from the Rordia Football Association president Paul McCulloch.
"We are delighted to have been invited to the Baptism of Fire Cup. We have selected 22 of our best players from the new Rordia Football League to play in our national squad. I am certain that we have the potential to do well in this prestigious tournament. And as the national motto says, Siamo Uniti!"

TEAM COLOURS
Home: Blue with yellow stripes
Away: White with blue trim

COACHING STAFF
(Ages in brackets)
MANAGER: John Swift (44)
HEAD COACH: Ben Richardson (39)
DEFENSIVE COACH: Scott Kerr (40)
OFFENSIVE COACH: Martin Brent (41)
GOALKEEPING COACH: Peter Davids (39)

SQUAD
(Ages in brackets)
GOALKEEPERS
Richard Hutton (19)
Leigh Marr (24)
Ian Spendlow (20)
DEFENDERS
Nathan Dawkins (22)
Andy Ahmed (23)
John Greenston (26) - CAPTAIN
Anthony Percy (20)
Ronnie Rep (29)
Michael Davidson (21)
Nat Peters (29)
MIDFIELDERS
Ernie Briggs (21)
Ciaran Mirren (17)
Robert Eccleston (21)
Michael Ridgewell (23)
Jim Roberts (17)
Steve Vance (18)
Oliver Drone (23)
Richard Edge (23)
FORWARDS
Tim Brick (18)
Bob Downing (21)
Peter Edwards (23)
Freddie Monaghan (21)

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events Y
RP injuries to my players N
Godmod injuries to my players N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out Red cards to my players N
Godmod Other Events Y

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y231/bettia/FAB.jpg

The Football Association of Bettia (FAB) is pleased to welcome participants in this, the latest Baptism of Fire.

In all, seven of Bettia's fine stadia shall be used (for locations, please consult the Map of Bettia (http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y231/bettia/map.gif)):

Group Stage
Stamping Ground, Lorshill & Shubunkin Park, Akani Sands (Group G)
Campus Ground, Grappenhall & Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton (Group A)
Thamitra Gate, Tamrida & Al-Fath Stadium, Sukatra (Group S)

Regional Quarter-Finals
Shubunkin Park, Akani Sands
Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton
Thamitra Gate, Tamrida
Al-Fath Stadium, Sukatra

Regional Semi-Finals
Stamping Ground, Lorshill & Campus Ground, Grappenhall

Regional Final & BofF 3rd Place Playoff
Stadiwm Bettia, Gabalfa

Stadiwm Bettia
Location: Gabalfa
Club: Gabalfa City FC
Staging: Regional Final, 3rd Place Playoff
Capacity: 102,000Designed by reknowned architect Kenzo Violin, Stadiwm Bettia is instantly recognisable by its prominent roof structure. Originally designed as a 81000-capacity all-seater stadium, the FAB took the decision to remove the lower tier of seats in favour of good old-fashioned terracing. The result... an unbelievably loud atmosphere that can intimidate all but the most hardy of opponents.


The Stamping Ground
Location: Lorshill
Club: Lorshill Utd FC
Staging: Group G Matches, Regional Semi-Final
Capacity: 75,000An imposing stadium situated near to Lorshill's famous safari park. It's most distinctive feature is it's silver undulating rooves, not just for their appearance but also their acoustic qualities. Although the original intention was simply to avoid disturbing the animals next door by controlling the amount of noise leaked into the neighbouring areas, it was soon discovered that having the sound from the fans channelled back into the stands makes for a sometimes cacophonous atmosphere.


Shubunkin Park
Location: Akani Sands
Clubs: Akani Sands FC, Akani Sands Destroyers GC
Staging: Group G Matches, Regional Quarter-Final
Capacity: 71000A stadium famous for it's comfortable seats, excellent facilities and rather garish colour scheme, supposedly reflecting the vibrancy of this popular seaside resort. You won't hear locals complaining though - ever since moving here, Akani Sands FC have dominated the Bettia's Apex League.


Heol Angharyd
Location: Ceffinton
Clubs: Ceffinton Town FC, Ceffinton Turbos GC
Staging: Group A Matches, Regional Quarter-Final
Capacity: 57,000Located in the heart of a less-than-well-off residential area, this is a state-of-the-art stadium with a refreshingly simple design built as part of a grand urban regeneration project (and also to replace Ceffinton Town's former ground which was ageing quite badly). The architects of Heol Angharyd decided to let the football take centre stage by adopting a more minimalist concept, accentuated by sweeping curves representing the rolling hills and highlands of the region.


The Campus Ground
Location: Grappenhall
Clubs: Grappenhall Utd FC, Grappenhall Grapplers GC
Staging: Group A Matches, Regional Semi-Final
Capacity: 65,000Situated in the heart of Bettia's main university city, The Campus Ground features large banks of seating at its sides with shortened stands behind the goals offering views of the stunning Banastra rainforest. Of course, being situated in a rainforest meant that the pitch was often damper than usual compared with other Bettian grounds, and fans tended to get a bit wet. You'd have thought that being in a city full of students and geniuses, someone would've had the bright idea of putting a fully-retractable roof on the damn thing sooner than they did. Thankfully, they did it just in time for the new season.


Thamitra Gate
Location: Tamrida
Clubs: Tamrida FC, Tamrida Warriors GC
Staging: Group S Matches, Regional Quarter-Final
Capacity: 55,000The Thamitra Gate stadium was specially designed to reflect the architecture of Tamrida's many mosques. After a long, drawn-out project which saw umpteen design changes, the result is a ground with a unique style and character with floodlight columns resembling minerets. Vaguely amusingly, Thamitra Gate is sometimes mistaken for a mosque by clueless out-of-towners.


Al-Fath Stadium
Location: Sukatra
Clubs: Sukatra Tigers FC, Sukatra Sabres GC
Staging: Group S Matches, Regional Quarter-Final
Capacity: 63000Dubbed the Cauldron of Noise by commentators, this ground more than lives up to its name when full. A tight stadium with steeply banked stands, Al-Fath has become a favourite stadium with the FAB for hosting big matches when a victory is vital for the national team - thats the plan anyway, it doesn't always work out like that.


All that remains is for the FAB to wish all participants good luck and happy RP-ing!

Interview with Edgar Moroni, General Manager of the ASMV Sea Dragons

Reporter: "Now that you have been invited to the BoF, can your team actually compete at that level of play?"

Edgar: "I have no doubt that even though we lack the experience we will be extremely competitive. Our players are working hard and every day we have seen improvement."

Reporter: "But football, or soccer as you call it, is still a relatively new sport for your nation. How will this affect performance on an international scale?"

Edgar: "It is true that we are new to this. But at the same time that gives us a passion for learning this game, that nations where it has a long history may have lost. Our guys are very hungry for the chance to prove themselves."

Reporter: "Is it true that you don't have one single player that has competed at this level before?"

Edgar: "That is also true. However, we do have several world-class athletes on this team.At 6'10, Shaun Conarky is was an All-Pro Basketball player before switching sports two years ago. Unami Banta-N'bai is a champion 5k runner. Floyd Carlisle finished 2nd and 4th in the 200m and 400m championships last month. And Biccardi Maumelle is one of the top downhill ski event competitors in the world. We feel that even though we lack experience, we can make up for some mistakes with sheer athleticism. I can guarantee that we will be the team with the best conditioning."

Reporter: "Is it true that you actually have a real, live sea dragon to serve as the team's mascot?"

Edgar: "Hehe. Well I cant say that I've heard that one before. But I can assure you that after playing us, some of the teams here will have wished to play against one instead of us."

ooc: You may determine my scorers if you post first.
You may yellow card my players.
You may not red card my players
You may only injure my players if the injury is not so great that it will require them to miss any part of any future game.

This is An Archist News, your official station for the Baptism of Fire Cup.

Patty Paterson: The An Archist national soccer team is ready to begin it's first tournament at the senior level. Many comentators believe that this young team will be unprepared for this level of world class competition. What do you think John.

John Johnson: Well Patty, you have to remember that all of the other teams in this tournament are also entering international play for the first time. In fact, their experience in the Under 21 World Cup should the team an advantage. The team is very young, though.

Patty Paterson: The rosters for the senior team will include many players from the Under 21 team.



Coach: Clark Clarkson- A professional soccer coach at the youth level for many years, Andy Anderson has hired him to coach the senior team. Although his knowledge of soccer strategy is less than first rate coaches his ability to teach the game is tremendous.

Defenders

Fredrick Fredrickson: A great young player who competed in the Under 21 World Cup. He is probably the toughest guy in An Archy. He once killed five guys just by giving them a mean look.

Vinny Vinson: A talented veteran who simply doesn't make mistakes. He can shut down even the best strikers in An Archy.

Hender Henderson: The best defender in the nation. If he can't stop you noone can.

Mid Fielders

Sam Samson: Very tall but not very skilled, coach Clarkson is sure to work on that second part. Samson is on the team to win headers and he will.

Jimmy Jameson: Jameson has great stamina. He could play for 180 minutes. Perhaps the most important member of the team.

Albert Albertson: Probably the weakest link on this roster. Expect opponents to take advantage of this all around poor player.

Forwards

William Williamson: A famous An Archist rapper who is now known around the world for his athleticism in soccer. His performance in the Under 21 World Cup made coach Clarkson take notice and give him the starting job on the senior team.

Erick Erickson: The best young striker in An Archy. Erickson may one day be the best player in the world. That day, however, is yet to come.

Harry Harrison: Team Captain. The best striker on the team. If this team does well, it will be because of this man.

Johnny Johnson: Son of well known sports commentator John Johnson. He has been playing soccer his whole life and the level of experience shows. He will put in a solid performance in this cup.

Goal Keeper

Robert Robertson: If he isn't high he's one of the best goal keepers in the world. Unfortunately, he'll be high. He's still pretty good, though.

Michael Sticklandttttt team will be as following:
Dida goalkeeper
Cafu defenfer
Alessandro Nesta defenfer
John Terry defenfer
Paolo Maldini defenfer
Frank Lampard midfield
Claude Makelele midfield
Ronaldinho midfield
Zinedine Zidane midfield
Samuel Eto'o forward
Andriy Shevchenko forward
Michael Stickland coach
as you can tell this team is NOT full of the real best players in the world but just a lot of unknown people and have not been captured and forced to play.

The Sporting Director of Revolutionarian Island earlier had this to say:


...fortunately, despite hostilities to the east and the forces of Dance 2 Revolution forcing our nation of Revolutionarian Island into the western islands. We HAVE managed to get our team together to send to the Baptism of Fire. After speaking to the D2R Director of Sport and Leisure, Paulo Terry, we have come to an agreement that the Revolutionarian Island squad can play without disruption from the people of Dance 2 Revolution, given that the national side is split with them. They have also given permission for the home games in the upcoming World Cup competition may be played in the hugely superior D2R national stadia.


Given this information, the following players have been chosen to represent Revolutionarian Island in the Baaptism of Fire:

GK: Jan Kantruva
GK: Linyet Pretrov

D: Jonathon Trisk
D: Nyerlov Krusciv
D: Fredrik Nidskid
D: Vrono Raiquoz
D: Jaap Haabzan

M: Grevvso Linksovic
M: Parlo Manichov
M: Haedo Maeda (c)
M: Darik Ximilov
M: Tewiz Yimiop
M: Univ Shivkob

F: Über
F: Frevv Dirikshniy
F: Drako Raikov
F: Fredrik Kiv
F: Naemo Plovdiv

Naoki Maeda, 70, was announced as Revolutionarian Island manager earlier this week. He released this statement:


Hopefully, I can bring my experience from reaching the finals of World Cup 17 and previous experience of managing the D2R national squad before the revolutionary war to help this country to get as far as it can! And I will do whatever it takes, to make sure the citizens of Revolutionarian Island, have a World Cup debut they will never forget, much like the debut of D2R.



My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events N
RP injuries to my players N
Godmod injuries to my players N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out Red cards to my players N
Godmod Other Events Y

Gupta Team to Compete in Baptism of Fire

In a boldly surprising move, The Gupta Dynasty, a small isolated Indian empire ruled from their capital of Magadha, have announced that they will play in a tournament of "football", a sport that was first brought to them by the British, who failed to conquer them in three attempts.

The emperor, Chandragupta IV, was quick to point out the advantages of joining such a competition. "We have been alone for too long, forgotten by the world. Let us show them how we play this 'football'!"

The Gupta Line-up looks like this:

Goalie: Arjun Rampal.
Goalie: Sharumbukaan Asmail
Left Defense: Nishet Bose
Center Defense:Ahmed Akbar
Right Defense: Madhav Sen
Back-up Defense: Madhavlal Mehta
Right Midfielder: Deepak Rehna
Center Midfielder: Praboj Mittal
Center Midfielder: Nikhil K Mehta
Center Midfielder: Ambuj Deewar
Left Midfielder: Prashant Mitter
Back-Up Midfielder: Tapeshranjan Ganguly
Forward: Sachin Dravid
BAck-Up Forward:Virender Sinha

OOC: May godmod goals, no yellow cards, red cards, or other events. Thanks.

Somewhere deep in the Archregimancy...

"What's that, Fr. Polycarp?"

"That, Fr. Innocent, is official permission from Vilita to - very occasionally - post in the Baptism of Fire thread in order to comment on the progress of the vile hell-sent heretics of the Anathematic Republics. Preferably by watching them go down in flames. Pun fully intended."

"But why bother?"

"Because, my dear Brother in Christ, the Anathematic Republics have sent a team into international football tournaments solely in response to the recent success of the Archregimancy and our fellow Orthodox nation New Montreal States:

The demon grimaced. His assignment had been to find a coach for the newly assembled squad of heretics that would challenge the holy Orthodox footballers of the Archregimancy and of the New Montreal States.
The demonic forces cannot go unchallenged! So we asked for permission to comment, and that permission was given."

"Just so long as you don't overdo it, Fr. Polycarp - this isn't your Baptism of Fire, after all"

"No, but I intend it to be the only Baptism these particular demonic forces ever get to perform. Now stop arguing and pass me some Holy Water, some incense and a couple of Icons. I'm gonna exorcise this thread's sorry ass - and I sure ain't gonna trust those heretical kooky Protestants in Pastorville to do the job for me"


COMING SOON TO A THEATRE NEAR YOU...

Archregimancy Pictures brings you:

Father Innocent - Demon Slayer

In a world where good had to fight dirty , they tried to make him play by the rules - but when they made him hand back his Holy Water and Pectoral Cross, he turned into a one-monk demon huntin'-machine...

(rated R for extreme violence)

From: The Ad-Hoc Consortium of sports-related authorities, leagues, and groups; The Solar Association
To: ________
Time: 879.2105 RMJSC (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/RMJSC)
Herewithin find the full and complete roster for the team from The Solar Association that shall take part in, compete within, and participate in the World Cup, number 25, and the preceding Baptism of Fire to take place before said World Cup.

01) Steri (Janesse){Jurmen} [F] defender, backup (for 05)
02) Giben (Mobinna(Milan)){Avalfe} [F] midfield, backup (for 11)
03) Pharran (Lani) attacker, starting
04) Clictys (Eceni) attacker, starting
05) Jaylat (Ketarni){Murro(Aulana)} [F] defender, starting
06) Jod (Chrillila){Wyouny} goalkeeper, backup (for 21)
07) Es (Cere(Jirianda(Base){Medwast})) midfield, starting
08) Grerenca (Ilaran) [F] defender, starting
09) Jarcod (Caisen){Graire(Lenot){Erriel(Larorie)}} midfield, starting
10) Acken (Jenie){Hounon} midfield, backup (for 07)
11) Norge (Mesa){Erre} [F] midfield, starting
12) Wyollard (Atosse) attacker, backup (for 03)
13) Gunten (Satty){Nonyrard} midfield, starting
14) Chelepe (Agna(Editta){Jasverty(Mesely)}) [F] defender, backup (for 08)
15) Jacksen (Mavie){Eges} defender, starting
16) Stenge (Leanas){Ston(Cienninke)} midfield, backup (for 09)
17) Nelaira (Wellie(Sora)) [F] midfield, starting
18) Irlon (Calit){Elval} defender, backup (for 15)
19) Racie (Chellaly(Garlie){Jeri}){Lewn} midfield, backup (for 13)
20) Lendit (Kalane){Martinn} [F] midfield, backup (for 17)
21) Din (Raninna){Jidion} goalkeeper, starting
22) Saune (Sherrie){War{(Grara){Eseron}}} attacker, backup (for 04)
coach#1) Celan (Kayni){Milfrab} [F]
coach#2) Jormie (Cerene(Ennie))
coach#3) Kelmane (Denna){Gorvack} [F]
coach#4) Laprie (Cana){Gartney} [F]

For an explanation and description of the naming practices within The Solar
Association, see here. (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Nomenclature)


In the event, in the case, in the situation of my opponent writing, posting, putting up the Roleplay of the competition, the game, before I can or choose to, may name, denominate, and choose the goalscorers, hand out and disburse yellow cards to a reasonable degree. No other permissions are granted, allowed, or acceptable.
In line with, and "taking a page from," another---In the aforesaid situation or event of my not writing or Roleplaying the competition, my opponent may most definately not depict, describe, or write of, hooiganism, property destruction, fighting, throwing of objects, or violence by persons from The Solar Association.

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events N
RP injuries to my players N
Godmod injuries to my players N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out Red cards to my players N
Godmod Other Events N

OC: My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events Y
RP injuries to my players Y
Godmod injuries to my players Y
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out Red cards to my players Y
Godmod Other Events Y

-2 style please, changing to -1 if allowed

Team Colours

Home Kit: Green and Yellow Striped shirt and socks. Blue shorts
Away: Dark Blue all over
Goalie Home: All Black, even the cap
Goalie Away: Imperial Purple all over

Stadium

Southern Island Peaks

An all seater modern stadium, retractable roof, special look is the old clock on the West bank. Capacity of 40,000, seats the colour of the national team. On the hot southern island ruled by General Jared, brother of the ruler Jude to gain him goodwill, the heat and sudden rain can be off putting. Beside a rushing river, quite a few ball boys have never returned from going in the river which is called "Catincoa death."

Staff

Jude Takerath-20-Manager: Passionate, he can often be seen on the sidelines trying to rally the team. A clever man, he knows how to manipulate the media but lacks the man management skills to rally the team in dark times. Otherwise a recluse, his glasses only add to his scholarly look. When the team isn't playing, he will study, read or play a game of chess.

Igor Dejonvich-50-Assistant Manager: AG good organiser, runs training and logistical side of thing. Sits calmly on the sidelines, in the dressing room, he can inspire.

Gary Seville-43-Head of Scouts: A shady character with the death sentence over him, his job is to ensure security and check on the other teams. Is willing to cheat and lie if need be.

Steve Runner-28-Head Fitness Coach: A keen man, full of energy. A fast runner, his job is too keep the players as fit as possible but can be too eager and has to be reigned in.

Dr Madadden-38-Head Doctor: Runs the medical side of things. Forced into this job, he hates sports but is the top medical man in the nation. His glance from behind his glasses can scare even the bravest of men.

Jade Manalinth-23-Head Cheerleader: Supposed to inspire the crowds, a beautiful red head that is willing to use any technique to see Cuation win so she may gain more fans herself. Jude has a crush on her and she can play on that if promised enough. Known to distract footballers, also vengeful and ruthless

Each mentioned have elite staff to support(example, Igor on the training front has coaches for each position), coerced into the jobs by force if needed.

Squad

Tactics: Mostly a defending side, they will push forward if behind by anything up to two goals in the last twenty minutes. Normally, they lump the ball forward for the lone forward to hold up till players get forward. Willing to use the offside trap and press from front to back

SS

LM CM RM
DM
LB CD CD RB
GK

Starting line up:

Gary Jens(suspended)-24-GK. Games: 8(0) Goals: 1 Conceded: 10
Tall, tanned, agile, good at narrowing the angle, he has many strengths. He has three flaws however: his fiery temper, crosses and being somewhat inconsistent. This man can make a fantastic save only to let a 30 yarder through his legs. Willing to sweep up behind the defence

Leslie Butcher-18-LB: Games: 8(0) Goals: 1
inexperienced but quick and eager. Likes to attack but his shots tend to be wayward. Does not like having to man mark someone as someone good with the ball can tear him apart and fairly short so lacks ability in the air. Otherwise a promising defender who deserves his chance

Philip Cole-28-RB Games: 8(0) Goals: 0
Solid defender lets little past him. Slow but not enough to be much of a hindrance. Dependable but if something unexpected happens, he gets caught out. His left foot is injury prone.

Sol Major-33-CB and captain Games: 8(0) Goals: 0
Lacks pace and only recently recovered from injury, the man who organises the back line is a vital part of the team. Strong in the air and on the ground, a talker.

Jonathan Yan 25-CB: Games: 8(0) Goals: 1
strong in the air and in the tackle, this man has emerged from troublesome youth to a quality defender. Lacks pace but has threat in the air that will be useful at set pieces.

Abel "Sweeper" Robinson-35-DM: Games: 8(0) Goals: 1
The holding player, quiet on and off the pitch. Will not get forward and his passes tend to be sideways but he sits in front of the defence, attempting to stop anyone from finding space between defence and midfield. Unable to play anywhere else however

Heskey Anderton-25-LM: Games: 8(0) Goals: 3
a striker played out of position on the left wing, covering for the lack of left wingers. Tall and strong in the air, he works hard but has the tackling ability of a striker and tends to fall over too much. Fans are on his back

Timothy Ashton-27-RM: Games: 8(0) Goals: 2
A true winger uses power, pace and tricks to get past his man so he can hit a stinging cross in. Loves to attack and has a blistering shot. One of those looking for flick on from target man. Can get isolated and frustrated

Roy Ferguson-30-CM: Games: 7(0) Goals: 2
box to box midfielder with a nasty temper. His job is too support the attack or defence, depending on the situation. Fair passer of the battle, good tackle but few goals in his career, he tends to leave shooting to others. Legs going

Giovanni Hatzori-27-playmaker: Games: 8(0) Goals: 4
hates to defend and can stop bothering if he is in a mood. However when he is in the mood and gets forward, he is wizard of all aspects of the ball. Due to his ego, he can lose the battle after taking to many people on/trying something too spectacular also pulling the team out of shape is a risk with him. Looks for flick on

Cuation’s joint top goalscorer at Bof

Peter "Beanpole" Tanner-30-striker: Games: 8(0) Goals: 3
The target man, big and good at holding up the ball. Lacks speed and fails to score but his main job is to bring others into the game.

Bench

Peter Seamen-35-GK: Games: 0(2) Goals: 0 Conceded: 0
average goalie and reliable but doesn't reassure back line. Winning over his critics

Jamie Hargreves-27-Def/Mid: Games: 1(2) Goals: 0
plays anywhere in defence or in midfield but is pretty average. Good as fresh legs but that is about it

Rio Samba-27-CB: Games: 0(2) Goals: 0
a ball playing centre back but prone too playing off the pace and for being distracted. Suffering confidence problems and deemed too unreliable at the moment

Stanley Edwards-39-LM/RM: Games: 0(4) Goals: 0
Will not come inside but stays in the wing trying to get in a position to cross. Good on the ball but a liability off it

Rual Mendisez-18-striker: Games:0(5) Goals: 4
Pacy small goalscorer. Doesn't fit in with the style of play and can not dribble or jump much but useful in the counter attack or to chase a lead. Prodigy but manager unwilling to risk him.

Cuation’s joint top goalscorer at Bof 25

Squad players:

Neville Clarkson-40-Goalie: Games: 1(0) Goals: 0 Conceded: 1
Old legend, this will be his last bow. Fat which slows his responses and speed, he still has the ability to help the team. Scary to face 1-1

sorry I forgot to do this before:
My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events N
RP injuries to my players N
Godmod injuries to my players N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out Red cards to my players N
Godmod Other Events Y

Berisha knew that he had a lot of work to do. Just named the manager of the Ratlean National Team, the 50 year-old Starblaydi, by way of Nemya, had to put together the first ever international side for the island nation. Just their inexperience alone was difficult enough, none of these men doing anything more than seeing soccer played elsewhere on television.

"These guys are the cream of the crop in the RCS Major!?" fumed Berisha. "I don't see any of them even making the reserve side in the Liga Omega!"

Curt Padilla should have taken offence to the comment. As a National Team Assistant, and the former head coach of the defending Tiki Trophy Champions Locharay, he knew how to build a winner. However, having no expereince at the international level, he knew it wasn't wise to argue with his boss.

"Look, Giannis," Padilla said, "I know we're new to the game here, but that's why we need you here. Heck, it's why we're sending a team to the Baptism of Fire, to gain experience, which will be badly needed before the qualifiers."

Giannis turned to his assistant. "You're darn right we need experience. Are you sure not a single Ratlean has ever played internationally?"

Curt shrugged. "If they have, they've never come back."

The conversation was interrupted by the phone, which Berisha picked up. "Hello?"

"Giannis, Hughes here. The boss wants you in the conference room now."

"And why is that? I'm trying to get my roster together here."

"Trust me, sir. Let Curt do that, so that you can talk to the Prince's father."

Giannis frowned in confusion. "And why does the King want to talk to me?"

Hughes sighed at the mistake, for there was no king in Ratlea, but let the error pass without too much admonishment, considering Berisha's foriegn background. "It turns out that he has some information for you, possibly about gaining some experience."

Berisha grinned. Perhaps there was some good news after all. "I'll be right over, and I'll have the roster sent out shortly as well."

Giannis hung up the phone, turning to his assistant. "Curt, I'm going to the conference room. We're talking the entire national team pool to the Baptism of Fire with us, so could you fill out that roster for me?"

Curt looked at him with confusion. "But sir, you know that of the 35, only 18 will be eligible to dress, right?"

"Of course I do. They all need the experience of being there, however."

(OOC: this part of the story line will be picked up in the WC Preview section)


Ratlean National Team Roster for the Baptism of Fire XII


# Name Position
1 Reed Goodman K
2 Kenny Fowler B
3 Isidro Clayton B
4 Albert Hayes B
5 Leslie Sarstedt B
6 Myron Payne B
7 Cameron Castlestone B
8 Bobby Mack B
9 Johnnie Fraser F
10 Santos Wilkins M
11 Millard McCormick F
12 Kermit Bradley M
13 Rex Garza M
14 Adam Tandy M
15 Cleveland Curnella M
16 Donald Brooks M
17 Dante Hannabus K
18 Lloyd Taine M
19 Bryan Evans M
20 Terrence Waals M
21 Brendan Barnes M
22 Jackie Sugiura M
23 Sebastian Boath F
24 Darin Fields F
25 Lynch Adams F
26 Tommy Lynch F
27 Edwin Morrison B
28 Michael Albrighton B
29 Earl Lewis F
30 Quentin Smith F
33 Brady Figueroa B
42 Buford Maxwell K
69 Murray Lane K
99 Frederic Mullins K

---My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following---
Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events Y
RP injuries to my players Y, within reason
Godmod injuries to my players within reason
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out Red cards to my players Ask first
Godmod Other Events for humorous intent, expecting turnabout as fair play


Kits: http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b135/oatkautd/Ratlea_Unis.jpg
Kit on the Left is Primary, Right is Secondary.

Rumors Say Imperials Have a Rough Road Ahead

Although the groups have not been officially announced there have been certain rumors released that the Imperials have been placed in the hardest group within the Baptism of Fire. Many have said that this seals the fate of the team, and that the optimism which so many enjoyed has turned into pesemism. Nonetheless, this has proved to be a further incentive for the Imperials to train as much as possible, putting all the effort and time they have to be ready for the Baptism of Fire. Their reasons for so much training, which has exceeded twelve hours a day, has been given by player Mikhail Kleitz, the youngest player on the team , and one of the biggest stars,
[b]"We thought we were going to have, not an easy time, but a moderate time hitting the finals of the Baptism of Fire. If these so-called rumors turn out to be true I have the feeling that our task is going to be made much harder, maybe even impossible. These guys are better ranked than us, they have more experience, and in general are a more cohesive team. Nonetheless, I assure you all that we will due our best for this tournament, and we will not let the Empire down."

Indeed, Kleitz has underscored why this group is dubbed 'Group of Death'. The group is formed by the Golden Throne's Imperials, the Starblaydi team, Vilita's Jungle Cats on a Rock, Rejistania's Orange-Blues and the Bedistan team. All of those teams, except the Imperials, are highly experienced teams, some of which had hosted past World Cups, putting the Imperials between a rock and a big soccer ball. Indeed, it seems as if the Imperials were sentenced to an early defeat within the Baptism of Fire by the group drawers. Regardless, all players have reaffirmed their want to play, and their intentions to prove to all that they were not the pushovers many expected them to be.

However, some have dismissed the 'Group of Death' as purely mystical, and give a much more pragmatic view to the future of the Imperials within the Baptism of Fire. For example, many have placed Starbalydia's team as a second rate soccer team as inexperienced as the Imperials. They're world cup records were not as impressive as some thought, although they did reach the quarter-finals in World Cup XXIII, which is a placement much more lucrative than what is expected for the Imperials in their first World Cup ever.

Vilita on the other hand had earned a thirty game winning streak in one of the World Cups, adding to their aura of invincibility when it comes to defeating lesser ranked teams. Regardless, the Imperials have placed them as one obstacle, and they're sure that with the proper dedication this obstacle could be removed. Nonetheless, it would take a lot of 'dedication' in the eyes of others.

As for the other teams, they follow the tracks of both Starblaydia and Vilita, but pragmatist and optimist nonwithstanding, the team is going to have a rought time even making it past group stages. If this latter fact was to remain true it would mean that the administration would cut funding to the team, making them a fully private institution, which would make it much harder to fund the various team fields throughout the Empire, and their rather expensive equipment. The serious consequences of loosing administrative grants would be far too dark for some to even imagine, but it has pushed all to try that much harder to prepare themselves for this series of tournaments.

It should be mentioned that even with this gloomy news the utmost fervor within the Empire's fans have remained just as nationalistic and just as estatic for the upcoming football games, and many have agreed that the Imperials shouldn't really have a problem, and if they do, then the teams they're put up against are truly good and deserve better positions within the World Cup. However, viewers outside the national ethnic lines of the Empire have repeated the same dark views as the rumors - an early death for the Imperials in this Baptism of Fire and World Cup XXV alike.

But as the best goalkeeper in the Empire, Hans Kahn, says, as he came to us covered in sweat from blocking goals from his own teamates through drills and scrimages,
"They can all think what they want, but I can assure you we're not going to go down without a fight. I'll be damned if the Imperials fall with no points and no chance in World Cup XXV, that's not what I came for, and that's not what I'm going to die for. You know what I really think? I think that these people are going to be slapped in the face by a really nasty suprise, that's what I think."

Beyond his usual optimism and belligerence, there's a hint of truth, but the only truth we can guarantee is that this is going to be one hell of a good fight, and as we quote, '...these people are going to be slapped in the face by a really nasty suprise."

So as our eagle stricken flag continues to wave through the streets of Vilita, as our audience drives through to visit some historical sites and such before the beginning of the games, the notion of the Imperial's skill and national experience continues to expend optimism throughout, and works to purge those who believe from the thoughts of defeat.

The group is formed by the Golden Throne's Imperials, the Starblaydi team, Vilita's Jungle Cats on a Rock, Rejistania's Orange-Blues and the Bedistan team.

*the following takes place in Pastorville Head Coach Reverend Brown's office*

Reverend Brown: Reverend Carter, come here and take a look at this.

Reverend Carter: What is it, Reverend Brown?

Reverend Brown: It appears that one of the other teams competing in the BoF along with us appears to be slightly confused at the nature of the BoF.

Reverend Carter: How is that?

Reverend Brown: They believe that the experienced teams from Starblaydia, Vilita, Rejistania, and Bedistan are in their group.

Reverend Carter: How could they know that? The draw hasn't been released yet.

Reverend Brown: That's beside the point. The BoF is only for teams in their first WC, so the experienced teams they mentioned can't possibly be in their group, as they are inelligible for the BoF tournament.

Reverend Carter: Oh! I get it now.

Reverend Brown: So, you finally see the light, Reverend Carter? Let's go. It's time for practice to start.

[Edited version]

Imperials Punk'd!

In the words of Coach Leo Benz, "Those bastards!" It is true, the entire team was punk'd by the rumors, supposedly set off by Vilita's players, attempting to scare the Imperials into early submission. Indeed, the furious team has vowed to give revenge for that joke at some point, and vow to read up a little bit more on the Baptism of Fire before making comments. Benz himself said,
"It was a pretty harmless joke, but it really got us going, and I think they even helped us in this tournament! Really, all that training couldn't have been done without them! Regardless, they can expect retribution.""

Leo Benz, a very amicable guy, finished those words off laughing and shaking his fifty-four year old fist, hardened by years of soccer and weightlifting. Before he leaving to go back to his team he finished off with a promise that regardless of the issue of the groups, which have recently been released finally, his team would not let down the training they had picked up by now.

Throughout the Empire the dark shockwaves of terror have been replaced by silent laughter and some very mad orthodox soccer fans who too shook their fist at the expense of Vilita and Bettia. Nevertheless, one could hear as they walked through the streets of Fedala the horns of dispaired fans, happy that their team finally showed some hope for the future, while their own country was engulfed in the War of Golden Succession. Truly, it would have been a dark moment in the nation's sports history had the Imperials fallen from the tournament at group level, as the Empire is now in the midst of a very violent War of Succession, pitting the esteemed Emperor Fedor I against at least four seperate contestants for the very valued Golden Throne, sitting in the Grand Hall of the Palace of Fedala.

In Vilita the fans have been less peaceful, and incidents of the shattering of store windows, frequent looting, and small time brawls in bars where fans have pounced on Vilitian citizens, have been reported back and forth. There seems indication that over sixty citizens of the Empire have been arrested either by Vilitian officials or by Bittian policemen, and the Empire has been held directly responsible. However, Fedor was reaffirmed his position, giving Bettia and Vilita full legal rights over their prisoners, regardless of nationality. Nevertheless, it's expected that these prisoners will be released in a matter of days, given mere misdeamenours. There hasn't been any reports of lethal violence, although very close.

All the while, over two thousand fans have gathered in the alloted training field for the Imperials, chanting their name and the national anthem time and time again in a sign of support, proving the fans to be the most effectual of any team in the Baptism of Fire thus far. Under that chant the team members trained a bit harder than usual, and even put up two very entertaining scrimiges, awing the crowd and giving them reasons to make waves and chants of, Ooooleee, Oleee, Ole, Oooole, Ole, Ole!" The hairs of Kahn even stood up on his neck as he heard the fan base, bringing a tear to his eye, although as he says,"That never happened!"

The Imperials have been placed in Group C, along with: Cuation, The Macabees, Athestan, The Gupta Dynasty, Crendonia. All of the teams have been deemed equal to that of the Imperials, although most fans doubt it. In retrospect to the past incident of being punk'd, the Imperials have gave a hearty laugh and sigh in relief as they noticed that their opposition is to be quite less ardous as previously thought. Now, as most citizens agree, the Imperials truly have a chance to rise through the ranks of international football, and this goal has been underscored by the team's excessive and continous training and preperation exercises.

In a final note in tonight's news, the team is to donate over two hundred million Reichmarks to a children's fund. This donation is forged in the light that thousands of the most vibrant fans of the Imperials are sick children currently in hospital, diagnosed with anything from cancer to aids. The entire donation is to be going towards research, and the team's managers have implored others to make similar donations for a worldwide attempt to cure the nasty diseases which plague the children of today, for the improvement of the children of tomorrow. The national league is expected to give a donation of over twenty-five billion Reichmarks collectively, a hefty sum for a noble cause.

We leave you with these words, 'Iacta Alea Est'.

Parid Post-Today-Times-Tribune-Daily-News-Subjagation-Update- Dispatch-Telegram- Picayune

Collonie drawn in group with Israelis and Japanese thinks Milchama would like group

The Collonie Flying Eagles were drawn in a tight group today with Kunar, Israel4Ever, and RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo. Coach Natan Schlomit said, "This looks to be a tough group but I think we can win with some luck and some skill." The players seemed optomistic with captain Clyde Misterson saying, "We probably won't win this group but we will finish second and advance to the next round which is all that matters anyway." Now the predictions as done by Neil Kabants:
1st place: Israel4ever- They have the entire Israeli national team on their side and their Jewish and we have a French name so we can't win and they can win they finish first.
2nd place: Collonie- We have a good soccer team and our soccer team has 5 games of international experience against Milchama. We should do well.
3rd place: RDKN- Their Japanese and we think that they have some soccer talent just not enough experience to beat us in the two leg playoff.
4th place Kunar- We still don't know their roster and that is never a good sign they get crushed and finish 4th.

Clyde Misterson key to advancement
The Flying Eagles expect much of Clyde Misterson to advance to the cup. Misterson is one of the best strikers in the MFL and is the best player Collonie has ever produced. Coach Natan Schlomit said, "He seems to be the only one who is not nervous at the prospect of playing international football. I expect great things from him not only in the BoF but in World Cup qualification as well." His most famous moment though was scoring two goals in the final of the Milchama Cup to win the game and the cup 2-1 only to see them erased after he tested positive in a steroid test. He disputes this claim and the issue currently in still being fought out. He also scored a hat trick in the octo finals of the Milchama Cup two years ago to put the Desert Foxes past Great Alexandria 4-2. How he plays will be the biggest indicator of how Collonie plays.

PASTORVILLE DRAWN INTO INTRIGUING GROUP

Pastorville's BoF will certainly be an interesting one, if nothing else because of the names of the countries that they will be opposing. Pastorville was drawn into a group with The Solar Association, which should be an interesting match based on the fact that they appear to be from out of this world, Aztec Kingdom, which may be an interesting match based on the previous attempts by Christians to convert the Aztecs, Rordia, and Anathematic Republics. The Anathematic Republics match is the one that Pastorville players and fans seem to be looking forward to the most, as it will provide Pastorville a chance to prove to those poor, unfortunate souls that they would be better off on our side.

The room filled with laughter, as the Ratlean National Team watched Channel Sport. Berisha grumbled, as instead of watching the draw, it turned out that the network was showing "World Cup'd" a new prank show sponsored by Vilitian company 3wide Desgins. He turned to Curt. "Any word on what happened with the draw?"

Curt shrugged. "I believe Hughes is calling the Bettian Football Association about it. He's supposed to inform us of what's going."

"Well they better hurry, so we can be out of here for dinner and team review."

Curt nodded, as Hughes entered the room.

"Mr. Berisha? It appears that there was a technical difficulty with the draw, so it is being held at 6, rather than 5."

Giannis looked at his watch, which read 5:30. "Fine," he grumbled. "We'll just wait here for the broadcast."

45 minutes later...

The draw was now over, and left the National Team Manager and Assistant slightly perplexed.

"Curt," said Berisha, "have you seen anything about any of these teams?"

"Not a bit. I didn't even know that they were competing. Though that T group in Vilita's going to be interesting, as you have the peacemongerers, the priests, the Aztecs, and the Hellraisers all in one."

Giannis, meanwhile, was thinking about strategy for the group round, with the odd format for their group, group Y. "So, do you think we may be better off gaining experience by deliberately finishing second? Otherwise, we're getting barely any matches in the group phase before the knockout rounds..."

Here are the Spookyville Claws
Goalie: Rumple
Defender: Molly
Defender: Six-toes
Defender: Shade
Defender: Bastet
Defender: Koko
Defender: Tigger
Midfield: Happy
Midfield: Crazy-girl
Attack: Gripper
Attack: Big-eyes

Reserve: Bounce
Reserve: Hook
Reserve: Tam
Reserve: Princess
Reserve: Spark
Reserve: Lucky
{Reserve players can play any spot}

Trainer: Mungo
Coach: The Yowler
General Manager: His Felinic Majesty, Spooky I "Speluncus Felinus"

If it matters to you, Molly, Bastet, Crazy-girl, Big-eyes, Princess, and The Yowler are female.


My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events Y
RP injuries to my players N
Godmod injuries to my players N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out Red cards to my players Y
Godmod Other Events Y

I'll play medium defensively. That's -1, right?

"OK, Butch, ya say ya got a team togedder?"

"Yeah, boss. Took some work, but I did da job."

"Dat's good. So, dey gonna be any good?"

"So-so, boss. Dere pretty good innavidually, but dey're havin' some prolems comin' togedder as a team."

"Why's dat?"

"Dey don't all speak Englich too good. Oh, dey all speak enuf to get by, but, well..."

Jake sighs. "Dere etnics. Can't espect too much. At least dey all speak Englich." He pauses. "Dey all do speak Englich, right?"

"Sure t'ing. Dey're all grads of at least secon' year ESL. Esept da five of dem dat's native-borned Philelfyans."

"Wha'? Dere are Philelfyans dat play soccer?"

"Yeah, boss. 'Course, dey all got etnic families an' backrouns and dat."

"Oh, I see. So da coach can talk ta alla da team?"

"Yeah, but sometimes communicatin' is a bit, well, fraught. But everthin' necessary is getting t'rough, and dere all gettin' bedder at Englich. Da coach figgers it'll be OK by da time dey play."

"Let me be blunt here. We gonna win any games?"

"Sure. Coach says we're bound ta win one. Might even win a couple-few."

Jake sighs.

"Hey, don't worry boss. We ain't gonna be barn-burners, but we ain't gonna be a embarrassment ta da Empiya."

"Dat'll havta do. OK, so what's da lineup look like?"

"Roste' boss. Dey call it a roste' in soccer. An' here it is."

So sayin', Butch puts a piece of paper in fronta Jake, dat says----


Da Philelfya Empiya presents:
DA PHILELFYA HELLCATS
01) Kleist, "Rick": starting goalkeeper
05) Froebel, "Mark": starting back
07) Guizot, "Trent": starting back
11) Schleiermacher, Curtis: starting back
14) Gneisenau, "Brad": starting back
19) Ghirlandajo, "Kurt": starting back
04) Manzoni, "Ross": starting midfield
16) Vannucci, Ryan: starting midfield
08) de Iturbide, "Scott": starting midfield
13) da Montrefeltro, "Craig": starting forward
18) Mantegna, "Bill": starting forward
03) Ricardo, "Jim": reserve goalkeeper
09) Schelling, "Tad": reserve goalkeeper
10 Krylov, "Buck": reserve back
17) di Cosimo, "Rex": reserve back
02) Fichte, Eric: reserve back
15) de la Pagerie, "Jack": reserve midfield
06) Guizot, "Clint": reserve forward
12) Cherubini, "Drake": reserve forward
Cabral, "Jeff": Head Coach
Hamerken, Keith: Assistant Coach
della Rovere, "Jake": Subassistant Coach


Style = -1 --- if "styles" are being used in the BoF
Formation: 5-3-2


"Dat's what dey call a five-three-two fo'mation."

Jake looks it over. "What's wit' da name inna quotes?"

"Mosta dese guys got weird soundin' first names, so we gave dem good Philelfyan names as nicknames. Dat way, da fans'll have somet'in' ta call dem by."

"Good t'inkin', Butch. But why'd some got dere names wit'out quotes?"

"'Cause-a dose are dere real names."

"Gotcha. So, da team is practicin', da coach ain't wit'out hope, and evert'ings ready?"

"Yeah, boss, all systems is go."

"Beddah be. Yer ass is onna line, Butch."

Quiet-like, Butch starts ta sweat.




My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events N
RP injuries to my players Y---but nothin' permanent-like
Godmod injuries to my players N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out Red cards to my players Y
Godmod Other Events N


OOC: This is a repeat from a post to the "WC25 | Preview (pre-cup RPs go here)" thread, as it is fitting for both there and here.

//OOC: I'm sorry if this wasn't entirely clear, but here's the deal with my nation:

1) Everyone here is WAY beyond redemption. This is Hell. Literally. Hell. Satan, fire, Hitler locked up in rabbinical school for all eternity. That hell.

2) We're called the Heretics, not the Hellraisers (although that's a pretty cool name).

3) Yes, this means Satan will be attending every match played.

Thank you//

The Bowels (and Spleen) of Hell

"CESTUS!"

"Yes, dread master?"

Cestus approached Satan, who wasn't in a good mood today. Even by local standards.

"This footballing lark...what's the deal with this group? A bunch of space cadets, some Aztecs, a pack of snarling evangelicals, and a perfectly normal nation that sticks out like a sore thumb in this loony bin. Also, some monk is going around Bettia exorcising every stadium being used for the tournament."

Cestus waited for the eruption. He was not disappointed.

"WHAT THE BLOODY BLAZES IS GOING ON HERE? We can't tempt the innocent if we can't even appear in the blazing stadium. Fix this NOW, or you'll be the one in the lake of fire."

Cestus bowed, left the room and sprinted to his desk to file a complaint with the Bettians. He flipped through the files on the tournament organizers and figured out what they might want in exchange for extraditing these monks.

ASMV Sea Dragon goalie Shaun Conarky had this to say about the draw group in which they will be playing in the BoF.

Reporter: "How do you feel about the draw that you recieved?"

Shaun: "We are really happy with the draw that we got. Like us, NewCommunist Republics and An Archy are just now testing the waters of international play. Havent heard much about the other two teams, though."

Reporter: "Given the lack of experience at this level, what is your teams greatest asset?"

Shaun: "I think that our athleticism will do much to cary us through the first round in fairly good shape. We have no fear of the competition. Every single player that we have has performed at very high levels in other sports. So we know how to perfom under pressure."

Reporter: "What has prepared you the most for this experience?"

Shaun: "Practice. Really. My time in Pro Basketball has made me mentally tough. When you consistently compete at that level of competition, you learn how to handle yourself pretty well. Besides, what other goalie here has a 48" verticle jump?"

Reporter: "Any last comments?"

Shaun: "I am just happy at this point not to have been put into the draw with the priests, demons, and wierd ones from afar. But I do plan on catching some of that action via internet connection. Should make for some extaordinary games to say the least."

News of the Cuation World

"In recent news, Cuation has been drawn in Group C, in the Vilitan Region for the Bof. The situation is simple, to qualify for the second round, Jude must get the team in the top three of the group. Doing so is another matter but the expirence from this comptetion will prove invaluble for the World Cup. The draw for Cuation was as follows:

Group C:


1- Cuation
2- The Macabees
3- Athestan
4- The Gupta Dynasty
5- Crendonia

Being the media hounds we are, we expect victory of 5 goals or more every game and will only accept winning the group as sucess. Later we will have talks with the manager and with one player!

Warlord Jude, Manager and Divine Ruler

The press have been kindly allowed to listen to the manager but no questions where to be asked. The people delight in seeing their Lord and Master on TV as the inexpirenced manager wipes sweat off the top of his head after training the team hard.

"We are delighted to be in a comptetion of such prestige and our hosts have been most kind to the team. I will be playing a 4-5-1 formation in a defensive style. We shall try to limit the opposition to long range shots and play long balls up to Peter. We will use this expirence to learn and see what we can change. My main goal is for the team to keep off the bottom but if we get to the second round, I will be delighted. I'm sure the other teams will make things hard for us and I belive their leagues have run longer then ours."

Star goalie Gary Jens

The erratic but brilliant goalie is a man with much to prove and who, as the last line of defence, may be kept busy trying the times ahead. He was with Jude and after his manager left, spoke freely to the press

"Oh the manager's cool and all but he can be such a downer, you know? We have as good a chance as anyone here of getting to the next round and we shall do so! Sure we will be playing it tight but with Giovanni and Timothy, we can win with flair! We shall win this!"

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y231/bettia/FAB.jpg

The Football Association of Bettia is pleased to announce the First Round match schedule for the Bettian Section.

Group G

Matchday 1:
Newcommunist Republics vs Bakostrovia (Stamping Gound, Lorshill)
Corruptomania vs Andossa Se Mitrin Vega (Shubunkin Park, Akani Sands)

Matchday 2:
Corruptomania vs An Archy (Stamping Ground, Lorshill)
Bakostrovia vs Andossa Se Mitrin Vega (Shubunkin Park, Akani Sands)

Matchday 3:
Newcommunist Republics vs Andossa Se Mitrin Vega (Stamping Ground, Lorshill)
An Archy vs Bakostrovia (Shubunkin Park, Akani Sands)

Matchday 4:
Newcommunist Republics vs An Archy (Stamping Ground, Lorshill)
Bakostrovia vs Corruptomania (Shubunkin Park, Akani Sands)

Matchday 5:
Newcommunist Republics vs Corruptomania (Stamping Ground, Lorshill)
An Archy vs Andossa Se Mitrin Vega (Shubunkin Park, Akani Sands)


Group A

Matchday 1:
Revolutionarian Island vs Jacobian Tribes (Campus Ground, Grappenhall)
Shearer Hell vs Michael Stricklandttttt (Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton)

Matchday 2:
Shearer Hell vs Da Philelfya Empiya (Campus Ground, Grappenhall)
Jacobian Tribes vs Michael Stricklandttttt (Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton)

Matchday 3:
Revolutionarian Island vs Michael Stricklandttttt (Campus Ground, Grappenhall)
Da Philelfya Empiya vs Jacobian Tribes (Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton)

Matchday 4:
Revolutionarian Island vs Da Philelfya Empiya (Campus Ground, Grappenhall)
Jacobian Tribes vs Shearer Hell (Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton)

Matchday 5:
Revolutionarian Island vs Shearer Hell (Campus Ground, Grappenhall)
Da Philelfya Empiya vs Michael Stricklandttttt (Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton)


Group S

Matchday 1:
Kunar vs RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo (Thamitra Gate, Tamrida)
Israel4Ever vs Collonie (Al-Fath Stadium, Sukatra)

Matchday 2:
Collonie vs Kunar (Thamitra Gate, Tamrida)
RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo vs Israel4Ever (Al-Fath Stadium, Sukatra)

Matchday 3:
Collonie vs RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo (Thamitra Gate, Tamrida)
Kunar vs Israel4Ever (Al-Fath Stadium, Sukatra)

Matchday 4 (Qualification Playoff, 1st Leg):
2nd vs 3rd (Thamitra Gate, Tamrida)

Matchday 5 (Qualification Playoff, 2nd Leg):
2nd vs 3rd (Al-Fath Stadium, Sukatra)

This is An Archist News, your official station for the Baptism of Fire Cup.

Patty Paterson: The schedules this year's Baptism of Fire Cup have just been released and the An Archists are set to play Corruptomania on day two, Newcommunist Republics on day four, and Andossa Se Mitrin Vega on day five. This looks to be a very challenging group for the young stars on the An Archist squad. We have soccer expert and head coach Clark Clarkson is with us today. How do you think your young players will match up against the world's best?

Clark Clarkson: Well Patty, you have to remember that our competition is young as well. Karl Heine looks to be a very skilled keeper and from what I can tell James Marx is one of the best young mid fielders in the world. Also, it'll be a real challenge for me to draw up a strategy to compete with Lennard Niemitz and Ivan Borisovitch.

Patty Paterson: We'll all be cheering for you back at home Mr. Clarkson.

Clark Clarkson: Thank you Patty.

This has been a presentation of An Archist News, the official station for the Baptism of Fire Cup.

When asked by reporters to give his thoughts on the Group G schedule, Alain D'Champaign, Head Coach of the Sea Dragons had this to say -

"We are concentrating soley on our first opponent, Corruptomania, at this point. We have to take care of this game before we move our thinking to the next one. As of yet we have heard absolutely nothing about the team from Corruptomania, so we can not tell you much about how we think we will match up with them. We do know that they are also novices at this level.
But the one thing that is certain- we will be physical, intense, and in their face for the entire match. We have the personell to make them work very hard for anything they wish to do on the field. In-your-face defense and run, run, run the other way once the opportunity arises. We feel really good about our chances with anyone here. Someone should let them know to bring plenty of oxygen - they are going to need it."

Bettia Section - Matchday 1 Results

Group G

Newcommunist Republics 4-0 Bakostrovia
Corruptomania 2-4 Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Newcommunist Republics 1 1 0 0 4 0 4 3
2 Andossa Se Mitrin Vega 1 1 0 0 4 2 2 3
3 An Archy 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
4 Corruptomania 1 0 0 1 2 4 -2 0
5 Bakostrovia 1 0 0 1 0 4 -4 0


Group A

Revolutionarian Island 1-2 Jacobian Tribes
Shearer Hell 0-2 Michael Stricklandtttttt

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Michael Stricklandtttttt 1 1 0 0 2 0 2 3
2 Jacobian Tribes 1 1 0 0 2 1 1 3
3 Da Philelfya Empiya 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
4 Revolutionarian Island 1 0 0 1 1 2 -1 0
5 Shearer Hell 1 0 0 1 0 2 -2 0


Group S

Kunar 0-2 RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo
Israel4Ever 1-1 Collonie

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo 1 1 0 0 2 0 2 3
2 Israel4Ever 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 1
3 Collonie 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 1
4 Kunar 1 0 0 1 0 2 -2 0

Shearer #9: "How long have Shearer Hell been in this competition?"

Shearer #9: "Since they needed an extra team to make up the numbers."

Shearer #9: "Oh. Is that why we lost two-nil."

Shearer #9: "That, and the fact we don't have any form of defence whatsoever."

Shearer #9: "Oh."

Shearer #9: "Plus the number of ts on the end of the opposition's name meant that all their fans kept spitting at us."

Shearer #9: "Oh. So who'd we play next?"

Shearer #9: "Da Philelfya Empiya."

Shearer #9: "How do you spell that?"

Shearer #9: "No idea."

*NOTE - Everyone in Shearer Hell is Shearer #9, because they are all clones of Shearer from the nation "Shearer Heaven."

D2R Forces unhappy with Revolutionarian Island Start

War more likely than Revolutionarian Island qualifying

Revolutionarian Island struggled to keep their hold on D2R firm as D2R forces march out of Kaze Progressa and towards the D2R city of Dryyil after seeing what is thought to be classed as bad representation by the D2R Government, as Revolutionarian Island fell to a 2-1 loss at the hands of The Jacobian Tribes.

It was an unhappy return to management for 70 year old footballing veteran Naoki Maeda, as he was sent away from the sidelines after 35 minutes for complaining to the 4th official about Jacobian Tribes' first goal. Maeda stated that he felt goalkeeper Kantruva was fouled whilst the corner that resulted in the goal was played.

Although there is a certain case that Chen had taken Kentruva out of play. The Jacobian Goalscorer will not mind that he was left an open net for their first goal of the tournament.

Things got much worse for RI in 74th minute, when a Jacobian defender's challenge on Manichov injured him. The lack of a booking for the defender outraged Krusciv and led to him being dismissed for dissent. This took Revolutionarian Island down to 9 men, having already used up all 3 substitutions.

It took the Jacobian Tribes mere minutes to capitalise on their numbers advantage, and in the 78th minute a well placed strike from just inside the box beat Kantruva for a 2-0 lead.

This margin of a lead was held until the final minute, When Über used his masses of experience to curl a shot just around the fingertips of the Jacobian Tribe's goalkeeper.

Full Time:
Revolutionarian Island 1(Über 90', Krusciv OFF 74')
Jacobian Tribes 2(Scorer 35', Scorer #2 78')

Vilitan Region - Matchday 1 Results



Group C

Cuation [1]-[3] The Macabees
Athestan [1]-[0] The Gupta Dynasty



Group C---- -
[1] The Macabees 1 1 0 0 3-1 3
[2] Athestan 1 1 0 0 1-0 3
3- Crendonia 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4- The Gupta Dynasty 1 0 0 1 0-1 0
5- Cuation 1 0 0 1 1-3 0
-


Group T

The Solar Association [0]-[2] Aztec Kingdom
Pastorville [1]-[3] Anathematic Republics


Group T---- -
[1] Aztec Kingdom 1 1 0 0 2-0 3
[2] Anathematic Republics 1 1 0 0 3-1 3
3- Rordia 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4- The Solar Association 1 0 0 1 0-2 0
5- Pastorville 1 0 0 1 1-3 0
-


Group Y

Kudlastan [0]-[1] Spookyville
Ratlea [2]-[0] Alan Shearer Heaven


Group Y---- -
[1] Ratlea 1 1 0 0 2-0 3
(2) Spookyville 1 1 0 0 1-0 3
(3) Kudlastan 1 0 0 1 0-1 0
4- Alan Shearer Heaven 1 0 0 1 0-2 0
-

PASTORVILLE PRIME MINISTER CONDEMNS BLASPHEMOUS RESULT IN BAPTISM OF FIRE MATCH

Pastorville Prime Minister Reverend Paul condemned what he called "the blasphemous result" of the result of his nation's first match in the BoF. "A 1-3 loss to those heathens is complete and utter blasphemy, and this government refuses to believe that the referees of the match could possibly be so biased against those who are saved to allow such an abomnination to occur." Nobody on the Pastorville team would comment on the results of the match.

ASMV BoF Experience Begins With Success!!!


In their first ever international football match, the Sea Dragons looked sharp as they downed Corruptomania 4-2.

After falling behind 2-0 early, the Sea Dragons shook off the early jitters to score four unanswered goals in the win. Pablo Iglesias(2goals), Pao St Martinique (1goal), and Malachi James (1 goal) led the attack on the corruptomania goalie who at times seemed to be a tad bit confused.
The defensive effort improved dramatically after the second goal was allowed and only allowed the opponents to get even to more shots on goal, neither was close.

ASMV Player of the Game, Pao St Martinique, had this to say immediately following the game - "We came out tight and did not get a great start. After they scored the second time, Unami (Banta-N'bai) and Micah (Swift) really gave us a few choice words. And we responded well from that point. This is a great day for us! and a great day for ASMV!"

The Sea Dragon's next opponent, like corruptomanis has been tight-lipped about their team. But you can expect the physical, fast paced style that they showed tonight to continue in the second game against Bakostrovia.

Imperial Victory!

Today, matchday one for the Vilita region, saw the first victory of the Imperials within the Baptism of Fire cup. The victory was pulled off after weeks of tension and hard training, which most likely guaranteed the victory for the team. Throughout Vilita and the Empire nationals and team fanatics waved their flags, wore their jersey, and caused havoc in support of their favourite team, now first in the group, tied with Athestan. The first day victory gives promise to those who had lost hope, glee to those who had been watching the cup since the beginning of the training, and ecstasy to those who knew the outcome before it was even released.

The first goal came in minute nineteen, scored by foward Otto Mannerheim. The goal was perhaps one of the most spectacular of the game, as Mannerheim passed it to Franz Siedlitz, who then touched it back, breaking the Cautionite defense, and giving Mannerheim the opportunity to score in the top left corner of the goalbox. The first goal saw the largest cheering, as over six thousand Macabee nationals rose to scream out for Mannerheim, finishing it off with the normal,"Ole, ole, oleeee."

However, by minute thirty-two the score had again by tied up by Timothy Ashton, with a brilliant shot from outsite the box. Imperial goalie Kahn missed it as it ricochet off the floor, curve, and entered the goal on the bottom right corner. The goal also set off a first time period of little movement, as both teams attempted to outmaneuver each other. No more goals were scored before the end of the first half.

At the start of the second half, minute forty-seven, Otto Mannerheim scored a second goal, marking the scoreboard at two-one, in favour of the Imperials. A third goal in minute seventy-six by Edhard Gruber finalized the score at three to one, to the advantage of the Imperials. The rest of the match, up to minute ninety, with thirty-five seconds of overtime, saw relatively little, except estatic manuevering by Caution's own team to see if they could tie up the score for a greater overtime. Nonetheless, Kahn and, more importantly, the defense prevailed over the other team, and the Imperials walked out with the victory in the first match of the tournament.

The group now sits with two leaders, the Imperials and Athestan. Athestan prevailed over The Gupta Dynasty in a one to zero game, ensuring Athestan's position as tied for first in the group. The Gupta Dynasty and Cuation now sit as last in the group, with no points, as Crendonia, having a bypass for the first match, sits with absolutely no points, but no losses. The other groups within the Vilita region sit with the Aztec Kingdom and the Anathematic Republics in the lead in Group T and Spookyville and Ratlea in the lead in Group Y.

The Imperials have released their schedule for the next days until Matchday Two, and it incorporates a full eight hours of training per day, except the last day, which is to be a resting day for the game. However, this training exercise should prepare them for a second victory, if God wills it, and possibly, putting the Empire in the lead for Group C. However, it will all rest upon a little bit of skill, luck, and how the Fortune's will it. Futures nonwithstanding, most believe that the second matchday will evolve into yet another victory, allowing the Empire to progress towards the Baptism of Fire finals, and then into the final game hopefully, allowing it to skyrocket through the ranks, and make quite a presence in the World Cup. However, that is all stipulation.

Nonetheless, analyst have said that there are cogent reasons to why the Imperials stand a very good chance in this Baptism of Fire, and give even more reasons why the team will be extremely colored and successful within this tournament. However, they also reaffirm that the World Cup will not see the same success, as their are teams such as Starblaydia's, Sarzonia's, et cetera, that are out of the Imperial's league for the time being. But even with that, they say that there is a very small possibility that the Imperals will make it past the group state in the World Cup. Indeed, there are very positive outlooks on the success of the Imperials, and most hope that they are correct.

In his press conference, today, team manager Kristoff Neider, said,
"We did good today. Yes, we played very well, and I am very proud of the team. Their work against Cuation has shown that they have improved and they have what it takes to compete with the other Baptism of Fire teams. Indeed, I'm very sure that we will make it at least quarter finals for the Baptism of Fire, perhaps even semi-finals, and there's a chance that we will make it to the finals. Well, isn't that our goal?

Nonetheless, again, we have a lot of work to do, and that's why we'll spend the next week in near constant training. It is to say, our fans can make sure that our team will be in tip top shape for our next match.

As for the World Cup, I can't say much. Yes, we may have a chance to make it past the group stage if we're lucky to be put in the group with similarly skilled players, but then again, we may be put into the Group of Death, as it seems to be called now, and we will be blocked out in the opening matches. No one can tell, but nonetheless, we will try our best. It's important to know that no Baptism of Fire team has made it far in the World Cup, except a few, so there should be no illusions that the Imperials will gain something that is impossible for them to gain."

Nonetheless, the entire Empire, and her fans, hope for more victories. Indeed, as Hitler once said of his war, the fans of the Imperials say for this tournament,
"The world will hold its breath..."




Macabees : Cuation
3: 1

Before the Pastorville-Anathematic Republics game

A very tall man with rich black hair and an odd red tint in his eyes approached the referee. He spoke in a low voice, and the referee went pale. He spoke again, handed the ref what looked like a watch, turned around, and walked out of the room.

He was heard to mutter "Cestus, you owe me one" as he left, but no-one was sure what this meant. He then disappeared into the Anathematic side of the stands.

Everyone was too distracted by the evil presence of Satan sitting calmly in the third row, and the horde of rowdy, drunken, lusting demons surrounding him, to notice the man sitting calmly behind him, talking to some demon who seemed to be in charge of the team.

Cestus nodded to the man, handed him some trinket, and walked down to coach Jean-Rene Filon on the sidelines. Another quiet, unnoticed coversation took place, and Filon smiled.

The game began, with Pastorville's offensive drives always being blunted. The evangelicals weren't sickened or killed by the trinket, but they felt a mild weakness whenever they passed near the ref. It was easy for the Heretics to dominate the game under these conditions, and they did.

After the game, the same man came up to the referee when he was getting into his car, and took back the trinket. The referee breathed a deep sigh of relief, and turned in his resignation hours later. He was last heard to have fled to a remote monastery where he was searching for a holy man who was said to live in a cave in that area.

Bettia Section - Matchday 2 Results

Group G

Corruptomania 0-4 An Archy
Bakostrovia 0-5 Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Andossa Se Mitrin Vega 2 2 0 0 9 2 7 6
2 An Archy 1 1 0 0 4 0 4 3
3 Newcommunist Republics 1 1 0 0 4 0 4 3
4 Corruptomania 2 0 0 2 2 8 -6 0
5 Bakostrovia 2 0 0 2 0 9 -9 0


Group A

Shearer Hell 1-3 Da Philelfya Empiya
Jacobian Tribes 1-3 Michael Stricklandtttttt

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Michael Stricklandtttttt 2 2 0 0 5 1 4 6
2 Da Philelfya Empiya 1 1 0 0 3 1 2 3
3 Jacobian Tribes 2 1 0 1 3 4 -1 3
4 Revolutionarian Island 1 0 0 1 1 2 -1 0
5 Shearer Hell 2 0 0 2 1 5 -4 0


Group S

Collonie 3-0 Kunar
RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo 1-0 Israel4Ever

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo 2 2 0 0 3 0 3 6
2 Collonie 2 1 1 0 4 1 3 4
3 Israel4Ever 2 0 1 1 1 2 -1 1
4 Kunar 2 0 0 2 0 5 -5 0

Mistakes at the back=3-1 defeat

Man of the Match

Otto Mannerheim

Praised after the match by Jude, how Cuation could have used a striker like him when 3-1 down. Sharp, moving well off and on the ball, he was a constant threat. Scored twice and worried his marker Sol Major throughout. Watch this man

Shot of the Match

Timothy Ashton

Cuation's only goal was from one of the few real attacking threats throughout the game, Timothy Asthon. After a run from out on the right, he cut inside and his long rage effort bounced and curled, beating the excellent Khan to make the score 1-1.

Moan of the match

Giovanni Hatzori

Just ahead of the costly errors is the performance of of the supposed playmaker. He was supposed to add an attacking threat but his greed and lazy attitude blunted the team. When he had the ball, he run himself into a wall of players. The only cheer he got from the Cuation's fans was when he was replaced.

Save of the Match

Hans Kahn

Kahn was brilliant in the second half on the few occasians the defence was breached. His best save was when sub Rual Mendisez broke clear. Kahn narrowed the angle but still did very well to get down and push away the shot. At that point, Cuation's heads started to drop.

Team analysis

The team has got off to a bad start in the Baptism of Fire cup and much work has to be done in all departments. The fans are dissapointed and demorlised by this defeat and some of the players should be ashamed of themselves. It would seem that Cuation's national team are in for a tough time ahead and can not expect much success.

Gary Jens conceded three and must take some blame for two of the goals. It was one of those performances that have blighted his career, little to do yet making lots of errors. It can only be hoped he puts in better performances in the games ahead

The defence put in a decent performance but at vital times, made individual mistakes, perhaps through a lack of concentration. If those can be cut out then Cuation has a strong backbone.

The midfeild failed to dominate until 3-1 down and failed to close down Imperial Players quick enough. Lacking an edge to unlock the Imperial defence down the center, thanks in part to the poor performance of Giovanni Hatzori and crosses ended up in Kahn's hands too often. Ended up resulting in the long ball too often

The attack itself was isolated and forced to seek chances by its self though Preter did good job holding up the play and bringing others into it. Both Peter and sub Rual Mendisez failed to test Kahn often enough

Match

Both teams where greeted by a wall of sound created by the cheers of both sets of fans. Throughout the game, the 5,000 Cuation fans cheered the team on but faced good opposition from the loud fans of the Macabees. The opening exchanges showed the Macabeess attacking style vs Cuation's defensive ways. A solid first 15minutes by the backline, helped out admirably by Abel "Sweeper" Robinson restricted chances.

However the good work was undone in the nineteenth minute when Sol Major and Jonathan Yan backed off allowing room for strikers Otto Mannerheim and Franz Siedlitz to exchange passes, with Abel failing badly to stop the attack. Otto was played through, shooting the ball past the advancing keeper and into the top corner.

Cuation came under pressure but some strong defending limited the work for Gary Jens, a feirce drive tipped over being the most the keepr had to deal with. Jude was on his feet urging his midfeild to take control but his team where resorting to long balls forward to start the counter attacks.

In the thirty second minute, Philip Cole booted the ball up too Peter Tanner who nodded it down to Timothy Ashton. Running at the defence, Ashton managed to get some space and cracked a shot at all goal from twenty yards. The shotwas powerful but had curve on it and took a somewhat fortunate bounce, the factors combining to beat the dive of Kahn and end up in the net.

For the rest of the first half, both sides provided little threat to the other as they sought a way of breaking the deadlock with little sucess. Giovanni Hatzori's fourty yarder hitting the corner flag was as entertaining as it got. 1-1 at half time, Jude had a lot to think about though his side where probably the happier of the two.

The good mood didn't last two minutes as a the defence switched off, allowing Otto Mannerheim to collect a long ball and run at have a free shot at goal. With Gary Jens out of postion, the shot sailed into the net and put Cuation behind once again.

The team was put under pressure once more and struggled to cope with all the pressure however Gary was forced into few saves and the pressure looked over when a cross was spilled by Gary and it was Edhard Gruber who slammed home the ball. 3-1 with seventenn minutes left.

Gary Jens was pulled off for Peter Seamen, Giovanni Hatzori subbed for Rual Mendisez and Stanley Edwards replacing Abel. With no holding player and the playmaker taken off, Heskey Anderton was moved up front in a 4-3-3 formation.

Despite constant attacking, Cuation was unable to break open the Macabees back line, ending up relying on long balls. The closest they came to scoring was when Rual Mendisez got the Peter Tanner's header and broke free but Kahn saved brilliantly and the chance was gone.

When the final whistle blew, the players went to appluad the fans but where clearly upset over their poor performance.

Interview

Manager Jude had been constantly on the touchline and trying to urge his players on throughout but he has a lot of work to do as he admits: "I would like to thank the Macabee team in being so kind in victory and congratulate them for the way they placed, espically Otto Mannerheim. They deserved the win."

"For the most part, we played poorly and failed to get a grip on the game. We will be looking to improve the concentration of the team and see how we can get the midfeild to work togther better. I have given Gary and Giovanni warnings about their performance and expect better from them. Lots of work to do and so little time before the next match..."

RORDIA NEWS

We caught up with Rordia manager John Swift ahead of his team's Baptism of Fire Cup match against the Anathematic Republics.
He said: "This is our first ever international match, and we want to win this. We know we can do it. We have the players, we have the coaches, we have everything in place. But now is the time to prove that we can actually do it.
"If we can beat the Anathematic Republics, we can definitely do well in this tournament. Siamo uniti!"

Rordia captain John Greenston also had faith in his players, and said: "This is our World Cup final. In fact, every game from now on is our World Cup final. We want to make our compatriots proud to be Rordian.
"Can we do it? I can't see why not."

RORDIA STARTING XI
GK: Richard Hutton
LB: Nathan Dawkins
CB: John Greenston (c)
CB: Ronnie Rep
RB: Nat Peters
LM: Ciaran Mirren
CM: Michael Ridgewell
CM: Steve Vance
RM: Oliver Drone
FW: Tim Brick
FW: Freddie Monaghan

SUBSTITUTES
GK: Ian Spendlow
CB: Andy Ahmed
LM: Ernie Briggs
CM: Robert Eccleston
FW: Bob Downing

Vilitan Region - Matchday 2 Results



Group C

Cuation [1]-[0] Athestan
The Gupta Dynasty [1]-[0] Crendonia


Group C----------
[1] The Macabees 1 1 0 0 3-1 3
[2] The Gupta Dynasty 2 1 0 1 4-3 3
[3] Athestan 2 1 0 1 1-1 3
4- Cuation 2 1 0 1 2-3 3
5- Crendonia 1 0 0 1 2-4 0



Group T

The Solar Association [1]-[3] Pastorville
Anathematic Republics [2]-[2] Rordia


Group T--------------
[1] Anathematic Republics 2 1 1 0 5-3 4
[2] Aztec Kingdom 1 1 0 0 2-0 3
[3] Pastorville 2 1 0 1 4-4 3
4- Rordia 1 0 1 0 2-2 1
5- The Solar Association 2 0 0 2 1-5 0



Group Y

Kudlastan [0]-[1] Spookyville
Ratlea [3]-[2] Kudlastan


Group Y--------------
[1] Ratlea 2 2 0 0 5-2 6
(2) Kudlastan 2 1 0 1 4-2 3
(3) Spookyville 2 1 0 1 3-3 3
4- Alan Shearer Heaven 2 0 0 2 1-6 0

Parid Post-Today-Times-Tribune-Daily-News-Subjagation-Update- Dispatch-Telegram- Picayune

Collonie off to good start after one win and one draw

The Collonie Flying Eagles have gotten off to great start in BoF qualification after drawing their first match against Israel4ever and winning their second match against Kunar. Coach Natan Schlomit said, "This is as good a start as we could have hoped for. We tied the Israeli national team and we beat Kunar. To put ourselves in second place and in a very good position just needing a draw to advance."

The first match with Israel4ever saw one goal scored by Yaniv Katan for them and one goal scored by Owen Micheals for us. They scored first in the 35th minute and we scored our reply in the 67th minute. Out side the of the goals the game was really pretty boring.

The second match though was exciting and here is a match report:
The Flying Eagles took the field and saw a bunch of soccer that looked very similar the only difference being the number on the back of their shirts. At first the Flying Eagles were a little scared and Kunar started getting the better of the play. They almost had a goal in the 8th minute when #9 headed the ball off a corner but Floyd Chooler made an excellent save to make to keep the game at gooseeggs. That save energized the Flying Eagles and they started attacking with Bobby Connon and Quentin Myler doing some excellent midfield play. The midfield play soon led to a goal as Kate Windsor shot a huge blast that was saved but Clyde Misterson pounced on the rebound and scored to make it 1-0 Collonie. The second goal came not much later as Amit Luton came forward but got the ball stripped and Kunar counter attacked but Chooler made the save and Collonie counter attacked from Kunar's counter attack. On the counter attack Misterson got the ball in midfield and he scooted past two Kunarian defenders before shooting a perfect shot into the corner to make it 2-0 Flying Eagles. Then it was halftime. The second half was really quite a bore as nothing happened until the 68th minute when #5 for Kunar got a yellow card. Then only 7 minutes later Clyde Misterson latched onto a thru pass from Quentin Myler and went unmarked into the box and came out of the box doing a cart wheel for his third goal of the match. A hat trick for Misterson in his 5 international game.
Final Score:
Collonie 3 (Misterson 24, 30, 75)
Kunar 0 (a shut out woo hoo!)

This is An Archist News, your official station for the Baptism of Fire Cup.

Patty Paterson: The An Archists achieved a huge win in their first match at the senior level defeating Corruptomania four to nothing. The scorers for An Archy were Erick Erickson, William Williamson, and Harry Harrison who scored twice. The second goal by Harrison, coming in the eighty-fifth minute was the play of the day at the Baptism of Fire Cup. After the Corruptomania goal keeper kicked the ball over the baseline, Harrison curved the corner directly into the goal on a spectacular curve. An Archist keeper, Robert Robertson also had a tremendous game picking up the shut out. Fredrick Fredrickson talked with reporters after the game.

Fredrick Fredrickson: When you've only got two defenders back, you never expect to shut the other squad out but Vinny and Robert and I just performed remarkably. It was a great feeling.

Patty Paterson: Tomorrow, the An Archists will compete against Bakostrovia who are zero and two with nine goals allowed. A big win in that match could go a long way in terms of boosting the confidence of the An Archist squad.

This has been a presentation of An Archist News, the official station of the Baptism of Fire Cup.

Hopes Up for Third Matchday, Second Game

That's right, the Imperials had their bypass game on the second matchday, meaning their second game will be held on the third matchday. The game has been set at the National View Stadium, against the team of Crendonia, which has so far scored zero points. Most analyst give good news to the Imperials after Credonia's loss against The Gupta Dynasy in a one to zero game. The fact remains that Cuation was served a heavy three to zero defeat against the Imperials, but on their second matchday they gave a one to zero victory over Athestan, who had earlier defeated The Gupta Dynasty. Consequently, if all went by that, the Imperials would be technically ahead of them all since they defeated Cuation the day earlier.

However, analyst also say there are much more factors involved, including the possibility that Cuation's national team had adapted after their loss against the Empire. Indeed, some say there was noticable increases of skill during their second game, pulling off the one-zero victory. Nonetheless, the fact still remains that the Imperials' next game is against the bottom of the group, Crendonia, and many think that turns into an automatic victory.

The teams that most come to mind as allusions for this game are Spain and San Marino; the former defeating the latter five to zero. Nonetheless, many allude to Crendonia as a Serbia - or a slow starter. It is true that Crendonia's role in the first matchday was nonexistant as it was their bypass day, however, many still don't take that as evidence that Crendonia could be more than the Imperials could handle. Understandably, we'll have to wait until tomorrow to make sure.

Group standings remain relatively the same, with the Golden Throne in the head with three points, tied with the Gupta Dynasy, Cuation and Athestan. However, the Golden Throne retains first position with only one played game, while the latter three have played two games. Crendonia remains last in the group. Cuation will play the Gupta Dynasty tomorrow, setting who will take the lead with six points, while Athestan will have her bypass day. It is to say, either Cuation or the Gupta Dynasty have the chance to pull ahead of the group, while if the Golden Throne is defeated it will remain second in the group, tied with Athestan and the Gupta Dynasty. So, the group positions are still tenous, and victory is not set just yet.

Obstacles nonwithstanding, most of the fans that missed today because their teams had not played, remain extremely optimistic after news of their victory against Druida in the Futsal Tournament, and then the previous victory against Cuation in the Baptism of Fire Tournament. Indeed, cars still flock to the roundabouts of Vilita's streets carrying the Imperial flag on the roof of their car, while it waves with the breeze created by the vehicle. Most have reiterated the fact that the Golden Throne stands a good chance to pull ahead with six points, although the Gupta Dynasty-Cuation game still give them the chills. One even said,
"Yea, I personally think we'll win this next game. I mean, if we lose it'll be a major shock, and even though we'll still have three points and tied for second that means that all teams have at least three points so we're really tied for last. But, I think if we get lucky maybe even Cuation and The Gupta Dynasty will draw! That would really be pleasant. But, we all need to be pragmatist here. Nonetheless, I really think we can pull off a victory against Crendonia, as that team hasn't show anything in the way of skill, especially how they carried out their game against The Gupta Dynasy."

For news of those arrests in Vilita, all those arrested and citizens of the Empire have been released, but have been banned from watching the Baptism of Fire, and have been given seven days to get out of the country. Most have stated the fact that they will most likely fly to Audioslavia to witness the XXV World Cup, although some have just said that they'll go home and cross their fingers there. The Vilitian government has underscored the fact that if they arrest anybody with a warrent to get our Vilita, they will be arrested, given a heavier fine, and most likely serve at least a month in city jails. The Golden Throne administration, and Fedor I, have supported Vilita's policies and have reiterated it to their own citizens within the Empire, and overseas.

As for the National View Stadium, the janitors are going to have a tough job the night after, with an expected twenty thousand Macabee nationals, with the number of nationals within Vilita growing by the day. Indeed, it began at eight thousand total, but now those in Vilita have grown past fifty thousand, most of which are spending their vacation here, not to watch the Baptism of Fire. Nonetheless, the amount of tourism this has brought from the Empire will make Vilita the most profitable Baptism of Fire host in history.

Finally, news from the other groups. In Group T, Anathamatic Republics has taken the lead with four points, after a two-two draw against Rordia. Aztec Kingdom and Pastorville come a close second with three points each, while the former has only played one game. In Group Y, Ratlea has the lead after a victory against Kudlastan with a three-two lead, gaining Ratlea six points. This gives the Imperials an outlook on their expected obstacles after the group stages, and most agree that it will not be easy. But this has only pushed the team to train farther and harder, making sure they are ready for the games to come.

BYPASS

Match Day 3: Pre-Match Analysis

Revolutionarian Island vs. Michael Stricklandttttt

Revolutionarian Island News

Current Form:
L-------

Unable to Play:
Krusciv (Suspension)
Manichov (Achilles Injury)

Goalscorers:
Über (1)

Michael Stricklandttttt

Current Form:
WW------

Pre-Match Analysis

Revolutionarian Island go ahead to play Michael Stricklandttttt. MS are coming off 2 straight emphatic wins, including a 3-1 drubbing of Jacobian Tribes and will be high on confidence.

Revolutionarian Island were given the matchday off last week, and may have the advantage of being fresher. However, confidence in the RI camp may be low after seeing Jacobian Tribes, who beat RI on the first match day, succumb to a 3-1 defeat at the hands of RI's opponents.

Considering that RI also are missing two starters from the squad due to suspension and injury, Michael Stricklandttttt must be given the edge ahead of Matchday 3. However, if recent reports are to believed, RI will be playing for not only 3 points and a possibility to qualify from the group...but also the safety of their country.

Prediction

Revolutionarian Island 0 - 6 Michael Stricklandttttt

Sea Dragons Destroy Bakostrovia! 2-0 BoF Start


No early case of jitters for the ASMV national team today as the Sea Dragons cruised for an easy 5-0 win.

Once again the aggressive style employed by the Sea Dragons paid off. Every step the Bakostrovian team made was covered by the defense. The results were easily seen by all, promting one fan to say "I wonder why that Bako team iseven here. They look more like some high school band trying to play football!"
The defense was once again the spark for the team, creating turnovers and opportunities for the whole match. The lightning fast offense fed off of the created energy to score 4 times in the first half with goals from with goals from Malachi James (4:21), Pao St Martinique (15:10), and 2 from Pablo Iglesias (20:45;22:18).
The second half saw the reserves get some much needed experience, as th defense continued to stifle the opponents. Langston Dirks scored the final goal in the final minute of play.

*********************************************************

Looking forward, the third game for the Sea Dragons promises to be a much tougher match-up. NewCommunist Republics looked very sharp in their day 1 victory.

"This will be a much tougher test for us" said defensive coach N'Djai Mabuto. "They have a lot of talent there. But that will not change our style of play. We will continue to be aggressive and physical. It will be a war out there. We are happy with the 2-0 start, but it really means nothing yet. We will be ready."

The Sea Dragon's leading scorer, Pablo Iglesias, had this to say - "We have been sharp so far. The defense creates opportunities for us, and with our speed we have taken advantage of those. I personally am excited about the next match. Their goalkeeper was great in their first match. I want my shot at him. It should be a very exciting match!"

A conference room somewhere in Vilita

"A draw, Cestus?"

Satan was seated at the head of the table.

"Rodia was not affected by the pendant, m'lord, pendant that, I should add, was supplied by Rexignoblis..."

The man in a black suit with the eerie red eyes sat calmly at his seat. "Not my problem, Cestus. I told you it only affected Christiams-"

Satan interrupted with a glower. "Do not use language like that in my presence ever again!"

"Yes, sir." He sat back, silent.

Cestus turned to the one human in the room. "What do you have to say for yourself, Coach Filon? The man who should be able to pull out a win no matter what?"

Filon turned to him. "We're on top of the group with 4 points, for one thing. For another, I'm new here, but even I can tell when someone's trying to save his own ass at the cost of others. The buck stops with you, Mr. Cestus. I joined this gig, what, a week ago?"

Satan laughed. "What do mortals call that, Cestus? Ah, yes. I believe the term is 'total pwnage.' We WILL do better next time, won't we, Cestus?"

The demon sulkly nodded.

OOC: I'm still trying to come up with a good nickname for my team, if anyone has any ideas feel free to PM me.

IC:


PASTORVILLE BLESSED WITH A RELATIVELY EASY WIN

Pastorville breezed to a 3-1 victory over The Solar Association yesterday in the BoF tournament for teams beginning international soccer competition in WC XXV. Pastorville, despite playing their typical, karela-like 7-2-1, dominated the play, as The Solar Association appeared to be getting toyed with by the Pastorville defense. TSA wasn't even able to manage a goal until late in the match after the Warriors had already built an insurmountable 3-0 lead. Pastorville opened the scoring in the 33rd minute, when Reverend Johnson headed in a beautiful corner from Reverend Williams. Reverend King was rewarded for his generosity in the opener when Reverend Allen fed him beautifully on a long pass, that sent Reverend King on a breakaway in counter to a TSA attack, which Reverend King promptly deposited in the net in the 51st minute. Reverend Harris continued his solid play up front by closing the Pastorville scoring in the 79th minute when Reverend Carlson found him on the far post for a header into an empty side of the net. Pastorville now gets some time to rest up for their final two matches, against Aztec Kingdom and Rordia.

Giannis still wondered why he brought the entire national team pool. While it's a good thing to get a lot of players some international experience, especially in a nation with nobody who has any in the first place, bringing enough players to have two starting lineups, as well as two full benches, surely could not be good, if you expected to get as many people as possible playing time.

Yet somehow, it hadn't hurt the Ratlean Nationals yet. Having 6 points in Group Y ensured that they'd be playing on past Matchday 3, though they weren't sure if a playoff round on Matchdays 4 and 5 would be in the cards, as it'll take losing to Spookyville for that to even be a possibility.

Tactically, the team was finding a comfortable formation. He had sent a 3-5-2 out against Alan Shearer Heaven, with positive results. Garza and Fraser became quite the duo, with runs by Garza from the Left Midfield set up both of Johnnie Fraser's goals, leading to the 2-0 victory. For the most part, the game was fairly well dominated by the Ratlean midfield, who kept the ball in the middle for the majority of the match.

The near disaster of the match with Kudlastan helped solidify the offensive-minded formation's place, as the second set of players were sent out in the 4-5-1. It turned out to be a bad choice, as the ball remained in the defensive end of the pitch for a majority of the first half. Forty-five minutes later, the Ratleans were down 2-0, sending the Starblaydi native to call upon his bench. Murray Lane went into the showers, while Frederic Mullins took his place in goal; meanwhile, Rex Garza, who was held over due to his performance versus ASH, came into the match at outside mid, as Adam Tandy slid up to join Tommy Lynch up top. The 3-5-2 was now in effect.

As it turned out, Garza wasn't the only holdover from the first match lineup. While a goal by Lynch reduced the margin to one in the 53rd minute, the missed chances by Tandy, a natural midfielder, made it too much for Berisha to bear. In came the super sub in the 71st minute, Man of the Match on day one, Johnnie Fraser. Fraser would score shortly thereafter, recieving a cross pass from Terrence Waals. The match would finally be decided in the 82nd minute, as Santos Wilkins showed off some excellent footwork, getting the ball through the defense, and by the keeper for the game-winner.

And so, it was decided: the Ratleans were best suited for a 3-5-2, thought Berisha on the bus back to the hotel. All I need is a player with experience there in the middle, and we'll be set to make a run at it.

And it was that reason that explained the mysterious absence of National Team Assistant Curt Padilla. Giannis just hoped that his trip was a successful one.

"So Butch, how we doin' so fah?"

"Lookin' good, boss. 'Cawse, we only played one game so fah, but we won it."

"Only one? I t'ought dis was da secon' day of da Cup."

"Yeah, but we got da 'bye' right at da top."

"Gotcha. An' we really an' truly won?"

"I ain't shittin' ya boss. Score o' t'ree ta one. Ove' someplace called Shearer Hell."

"Called wha??"

"Shearer Hell."

"It's worse den sheer hell?" Jake chuckled. Wisely, Butch joined in.

"Nah, boss. I t'inks it's called dat onnaccounta it's bad for shepherds or somet'in'."

"Bad for shepherds?? Oh wait! OK, I got it. Now, how's it look for the rest o' the games? We gonna win any more?"

"Hard ta say, boss. Coach Jeff t'inks we might beat Reva-reven-revolutionarian-in," Butch stumbled over the name "Island, onnaccounta dey lost dere game, and he says da one wit' da stutter at da end will whip us, onnaccounta dey's won two games. Da tribes place he don't make no bets on. Trut' ta tell, boss, I t'ink he's half guessin', causa only time's gonna tell."

"So, Philelfya will not look like no idyits or stumble-bums?"

"I t'ink we can count on dat."

"We gonna get t'rough this first level of games?"

Butch could only shrug. Jake shrugged back.

Bettia Section - Matchday 3 Results

Group G

An Archy 2-0 Bakostrovia
Newcommunist Republics 1-2 Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Andossa Se Mitrin Vega 3 3 0 0 11 3 8 9
2 An Archy 2 2 0 0 6 0 6 6
3 Newcommunist Republics 2 1 0 1 5 2 3 3
4 Corruptomania 2 0 0 2 2 8 -6 0
5 Bakostrovia 3 0 0 3 0 11 -11 0


Group A

Da Philelfya Empiya 2-1 Jacobian Tribes
Revolutionarian Island 1-0 Michael Stricklandtttttt

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Da Philelfya Empiya 2 2 0 0 5 2 3 6
2 Michael Stricklandtttttt 3 2 0 1 5 2 3 6
3 Revolutionarian Island 2 1 0 1 2 2 0 3
4 Jacobian Tribes 3 1 0 2 4 6 -2 3
5 Shearer Hell 2 0 0 2 1 5 -4 0


Group S

Kunar 1-2 Israel4Ever
Collonie 3-1 RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Collonie 3 2 1 0 7 2 5 7
2 RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo 3 2 0 1 4 3 1 6
3 Israel4Ever 3 1 1 1 3 3 0 4
4 Kunar 3 0 0 3 1 7 -6 0Collonie qualify as Group S winners (congrats).
RyukyuDaitoKazanNanto and Israel4Ever progress to two-legged playoff.
Kunar are eliminated.

1-0 victory restores hope

"After a disheartning defeat to the Macabee's, pressure was one Jude and his team to improve. For the first ten minutes, it seemed like Cuation would be humliated and only the brilliance of Gary Jens denied Athestan from an early lead. From a string of early saves, the best was a a reaction save after the Athestan number 9 had a free header from six yards.

Thanks to Gary, the team gained confidence and for the rest of the half, the defence was tight and allowed the midfeild to find their feet. The pick of the bunch was Abel Robinson whose defensive work forced Athestan to go out wide. His passing and solid defnsive play allowed the likes of Giovanni Hatzori to start prompting.

From the 35th minute, Cuation gained control of the match and started putting pressure on their opponant. Giovanni Hatzori was the main man, finding others in good postions, taking defenders on and delighting the crowd.

In the 44th minute, Abel won the ball and played it forward to Roy Ferguson. Bursting forward, he saw Giovanni making a run towards the box and played it to feet. Giovanni turned his marker and chipped a pass in front of Heskey Anderton. The lubering forward-turning midfielder, had come inside and controlled the ball in a good postion. Holding off his marker, he sliced it beyond the keeper and inside the right post.

1-0

Going off delighted at half time, the nerves where gone and the team happy. Coming out for the second half, Heskey was moved up front in a 4-2-2-2. Cuation kept the monetum and till the last ten minutes, played an attacking game.

Timothy Anderton and Giovanni both mesmeried the cheering 5,000 Cuation fans with their dribbles, flicks and tricks and with the full backs bombing foward, the Athestan box was under seige. However the two forwards wasted the chances, only forcing the goalie to even catch the ball three times between them.

Timothy Anderton had the odd go but his pile drivers where easily saved and Giovanni's long range efforts often just off target. In the bets moment of the match, Giovanni brought down a long ball, nutmegged his marker and burst forward, flicking the ball up a few times before his volley curled against the crossbar.

The few counterattacks Athestan could muster during that time where snuffed out by the clever play of Abel Robinson. With ten minutes left, Athestan tried to press forward to eqaulise and the Cuation team obligingly fell into a defensive mode. Reverting back to 4-5-1, on came Jamie Hargreves for the playmaker Giovanni.

A solid back line meant that despite the nailbighting of the fans, Gary Jens had few saves to make thhough one goalouth scramble saw the ball hit the post before Gary clawed the ball away. As Sol Major headed yet another cross away, the final whistle blew and Cuation moved off the bottom.

Cuation 1-0 Athestan

Interview

Jude: "I was impressed with how we recovered and a win, though narrow, is a good result and will bost our confidence. Mostly during training, we will look to keep our players fit and to work on our attacking play. The Gupta Dynasty will be a tougher team then this to beat but another win will do us a lot of good. "

Vilitan Region - Matchday 3 Results



Group C

Cuation [2]-[0] The Gupta Dynasty
Crendonia [3]-[2] The Macabees


Group C----------
[1] Cuation 3 2 0 1 4-3 6
[2] The Macabees 2 1 0 1 5-4 3
[3] Athestan 2 1 0 1 1-1 3
4- The Gupta Dynasty 3 1 0 2 4-5 3
5- Crendonia 2 1 0 1 5-6 3



Group T

The Solar Association [0]-[1] Anathematic Republics
Rordia [2]-[2] Aztec Kingdom


Group T--------------
[1] Anathematic Republics 3 2 1 0 6-3 7
[2] Aztec Kingdom 2 1 1 0 4-2 4
[3] Pastorville 2 1 0 1 4-4 3
4- Rordia 2 0 2 0 4-4 2
5- The Solar Association 3 0 0 3 1-6 0



Group Y

Kudlastan [0]-[2] Ratlea
Spookyville [4]-[1] Alan Shearer Heaven


Group Y--------------
[1] Ratlea 3 3 0 0 7-2 9
(2) Spookyville 3 2 0 1 7-4 6
(3) Kudlastan 3 1 0 2 4-4 3
4- Alan Shearer Heaven 3 0 0 3 2-10 0

Sea Dragons 3-0 - Defeat NewCommunist Republics 2-1

The ASMV team slid past NewCommunist Republics to move to 3-0 in the BoF.
As expected, the physical, defensive style that the Sea Dragons have been successful with ruled the day once again.

The first half was hard-played by both sides and ended with neither team finding a score. The ASMV leading scorer, Pablo Iglesias, went down with a slight ankle injury early, and the offense never found a rythym. The team trainer had cleared him to return to the game, but the coaching staff decided to hold him out for the rest of the match just to be sure. He should be at 100% for the final first-round match aginst An Archy.

The second half began much as the first half had ended - with agressive defense and little offense. That changed when Evan Evans of ASMV scored at the 75:14 mark. Almost immediately, NCR answered with a goal from Andrew Gogal. The pace intensified from both teams as each goalie came up with three great saves. Then the AsMV defense locked back down. It seemed as if the game might end in a draw, but a great play by Unami Banta-N'bai got the ball to a streaking Malachi James who scored with just over three minutes left in the match. The Sea Dragon defense kept up the pressure and preserved the 2-1 victory.

Unami - "Was very good match. They good team. Much respect for they play. Now look to An Archy. Will be much exciting to play."

Coach D'Champaign - "NewCimmunist Republics are a very good team. I am pleased with the win. Our defense once again shined. We feel that with the physical style of play that we bring, we will be tough to beat. Our offense came through without Pablo. That can only be seen as a good sign. Now we have to move our focus to An Archy. They are 2-0 and should be tough. Fortunately we will get a chance to see them in action, as we have the next match day off. It is very likely that we will meet as undefeated teams. Should be great."

Parid Post-Today-Times-Tribune-Daily-News-Subjagation-Update- Dispatch-Telegram- Picayune

Collonie wins Collonie through

The Collonie Flying Eagles advanced to the second round of the Baptism of Fire cup today with a 3-1 win over RyukuDaitoKazanNampo. The victory allowed Collonie to leapfrog over RDKN and take first place in the group automatically advancing to the next round. Coach Natan Schlomit said, "We're thru this is great but the better thing we now have two matchdays where we can just sit back and watch what happens to see who we will play against in the next round of the BoF Cup."
Now the match report:
The Flying Eagles came out Flying as Owen Micheals took the opening kickoff thru two defenders before passing to Kate Windsor who shot a monster blast and scored to make it 1-0 Collonie. This early goal seemed to inspire something in RDKN and they started attacking and having the better of the play. Utako and Taki dominated the midfield and Koto played great as a striker and almost scored in the 11th minute but her shot went just high. Then in the 14th minute the game could have been tied but Kiyoko missed high. The game started to settle after that second chance and chances started to become harder to come by. Kevin Mirshmon had a good run for The Flying Eagles in teh 28th minute and Utako almost knotted the game up with her shot in the 38th minute. After her shot though RDKN started to attack more frequently and got the equalizer in the 44th minute when a corner kick found the head of Tokudaiji Mon who put the ball in the back of the net to make it 1-1. Half time score 1-1.
Second Half:
The goal seemed to rattle the Flying Eagles and at the beginning of the second half RDKN had 78% of the possesion in the first 10 minutes of the half. Fortunately for Collonie the RDKN could not do much with the possesion as the Flying Eagles harrased the Samurais all down the pitch. Then in the 58th minute a stroke of luck brought Bobby Connon the ball and he sent a perfect thru pass right to Clyde Misterson who deked around the goalie and scored his second goal to make it 2-1 Collonie. After that second goal the Flying Eagles took control of the game and started forcing their will on the Samurais. Another one of Windsor's blasts was barely saved by Masuko and on the ensuing corner Kevin Mirshmon beat the keeper but not the post. Collonie continued to keep up the pressure looking desperately for a clinching goal. They found the clinching goal in the 83rd minute as perfectly executed free kick from Kevin Mirshmon froze the goalie and went right into the top corener to make it 3-1 Collonie.
Final Score:
Collonie 3 (Windsor 1, Misterson 58, Mirshmon 83)
RDKN 1 (Mon 44)

THE RORDIAN NATIONAL BALLET TEAM

Rordia's football team have started the Baptism of Fire Cup with two successive 2-2 draws. They contested a stalemate with the Anathematic Republics and also got a draw against Aztec Kingdom. Rordia's first two opponents make up the top two of Group T.

RORDIA 2-2 AZTEC KINGDOM
Rordia took the lead after 16 minutes - Tim Brick got on the scoresheet again after his two-goal performance against the Republics. Rordia captain John Greenston was stupidly sent off in the 31st minute for stamping on an Aztec player. One minute later, the Aztec Kingdom equalised. And, in the 45th minute, the Aztecs went 2-1 up. It looked like it was going to be a grim day for the Rordian football team.

Five minutes into the second half, Ciaran Mirren won a penalty after he was brought down by an Aztec defender. Freddie Monaghan took the penalty, but the Aztec keeper saved. Monaghan was on hand to put the rebound home and make the score level again. He then earnt himself a booking for his over-the-top celebration. After that, the game became lifeless. In the end, it was 2-all.

After the match, Rordia manager John Swift said: "Another day, another 2-2 draw. Our forwards know how to score, but our goalkeeper doesn't know how to prevent scoring. I'm going to give him a right talking to tonight.

"We're also without our captain, John Greenston. As the oldest player in the squad, Ronnie Rep will be our new skipper for the match against The Solar Association."

Rumours that Rordia are set to change their home colour to pink and change their nickname to the Ballerinas have proved to be unfounded.

"Jesus Christ, we got defeated by the absolutely worse team in the group. How could that of happened?" Wilhelm Großkopf put his head between his palms and fretted over the game that he had just lost. He knew it was just a matter of lacking application throughout the game, as the end had been extremely close. Indeed, the game resembled something like Portugal against the United States. But, still, such a loss could only spell certain doom for the team, as they had lost against a team that had lost against all others, and although the Empire was now second in the group, tied with two others in the context of points, if the Empire lost a second game it would mean absolutely no chance to get into the finals, unless a miracle occured, and that's not what the Imperials had trained for all this time.

The game had been largely contested, and Crendonia was able to score two goals in the beginning, one at minute six, another at minute thirteen. Wilhelm Großkopf put in the first Imperial goal at minute twenty-eight, however, three minutes later Crendonia put a third goal in, sealing the first half at three to one.

The second half saw a lot of action, but little scoring, broken only by an Imperial goal in minute seventy-two. From there on the Imperials tried extremely hard to tie it up, but failed in the face of a tenacious Crendonian defense, at the game ended at three - two, to the advantage of Crendonia, giving it three points, and tying it up with both Athestan and the Imperials.

Hans Kahn walked into the shower and locker room by himself, dismayed about the failure as a goalkeeper. Indeed, because he had been scored on three times in the first half he didn't even see the game the second half, being replaced by Derik Vander, who had apparently done a better job than he had. How could he had let those goals in? He was reputed as the best goalkeeper in the Empire, but he had failed, in front of the eyes of over twenty thousand fans from home. Wilhelm Großkopf slowed down and looked at Kahn,"Next time." Kahn just nodded.

Cuation had defeated the Gupta Dynasy, putting Cuation at the head of the group regardless of the fact that the former had been soundly defeated three to one in the first matchday. The second place in the group fell to the Macabee team, putting them at three points with two played games, but tied in points with the rest of the group, including Athestan and Crendonia, and the Gupta Dynasty. Although Cuation had lost their first game the Imperials had to give them credit for two straight victories, while the Imperials had won their first game and lost the second.

As the team gathered up in the locker room head coach Leo Benz roared in, slamming the door behind him, and sealing them within the room to be yelled at. He penetrated their skin with his eyes, and they all began to waver, and he said,"You guys did absolutely horrible out there. How the hell did you lose against Crendonia! Our next game is against Athestan, and Cuation is playing Crendonia. You better win, and Cuation better lose."

Some of the players rolled their eyes at that last bit. Cuation would most likely pull out victorious on matchday four, pulling ahead with nine points, but they would have their byday on matchday five, meaning that if the Imperials won these next two games, which was possible, but not set in stone, the two could tie, ensuring both of their accension into the finals. Indeed, it would be impossible to come out first in the group, what the Imperials had to worry about now was getting out period, which meant winning their next two games without faults. Their matchday five game was against the Gupta Dynasty, which had just lost against Cuation two to zero. There was a lot that could happen, and a lot of fortune could make it easier for the Imperials, but then again, fortune could also make it easier for any other team to get out into the Baptism of Fire finals.

Nonetheless, as all let downs did, this would give further incentive for the team to train harder until the next day. Some placed blame on the loss on the fact that the byday had cuased the team to lax, but that was false, as the team had only used the time to train harder. It was just a underestimation of their opponent, and they all swore to themselves that it would not happen again. Twelve hour trainings would ensure until the day before the game, which would be left for much needed rest, and then the game. Hopefully, the Imperials would come out the victors against Athestan...hopefully.

The twenty thousand fans who had flocked to the stadium had gone out either angered or saddened by their team's loss, and many of the fans had picked fights with Crendonian fans, most of the time winning these fights, but more often getting arrested and sent to jail. These would be released within forty-eight hours and given seven days to get out of Vilita and go home. Most of them would fly to Audioslavia or Kaze Progressa to wait there for World Cup XXV. It was further noted that the day did not have crazed fans in their rental cars driving our Vilita with two flags waving in the air. The Empire had lost, and a loss was never taken to heart.

But again, the next game would be totally different. The team would train to make sure that was fact and not prophecy. The second scorer of the game, Otto Mannerheim, with this third goal of the tournament, turned to Leo Benz and said,"Don't worry, we know damn well what we did wrong. It won't happen again coach, I swear."

Leo Benz scoffed then smiled and said,"Let's damn home it doesn't, because it can mean an end to all of y'alls careers."

Michael Stricklandttttt lads will have to at there best for there next game against Da Philelfya Empiya at Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton. Da Philelfya Empiya have yet to lose in this cup so far and will try there best to keep it that way. But with Michael Stickland head coach of Michael Stricklandttttt trying out new training methods, top goal scorer Samuel Eto'o seems to be play well and had this to say the say to the national press:
"I'm going to score alot more against the next team the last game was a shock to go down to a odd goal but we have been working hard and seem to have got the team back to how it should be."
On a sader note two of the first team players have been injured. Zinedine Zidane and Andriy Shevchenko are going to be missed for the next to games and so Thierry Henry and Kaka have been called in. Kaka will be playing in midfield for only the 3rd team in his life but still has the recored of 3 goals three games. Henry has played 32 times for his country and has scored 12 times. Henry was only droped when Samuel Eto'o scored 50 goals in 38 games in the national league. I think the score for this game will be as following
Da Philelfya Empiya 2-2 Michael Sticklandttttt with both teams playing well and making it out of the group stages.

RI defeat MS

Slender 1-0 win appeases fans

Fans and, more importantly for RI, D2R's Armed Forces were happy with the performance against Michael Sticklandttttt. RI managed to come out on top in a match which was very even and considered by both sides to be an extremely boring affair of few chances.

Michael Sticklandttttt had the first chance of the match. Ronaldinho played through Eto'o who tried a cheeky lob over RI goalkeeper Kantruva in the 27th minute. However, Kantruva managed to touch the ball onto the bar and the danger was eventually cleared by Raiquoz.

It was Ximilov's time to hit the woodwork in the 43rd minute. The Sticklandttttt defence left him space to run into and he pulled the trigger from 30 yards across the goalkeeper but the ball pinged out of play from the outside of the post.

The breakthrough for RI came just after half-time. A corner taken by Linksovic was swung to the edge of the box, where RI captain Haedo Maeda waited unmarked. The delivery was struck on the half volley and almost broke the net, entering at the top-right corner.

After this, the remaining chances fell to Sticklandtttt. Andriy Shevchenko testing Kantruva on 63 minutes with a low powerful shot which was well parried out.

Sticklandttttt thought they had scored an amazing equaliser from an unlikely source in the final minute, when a corner was converted by Dida, the celebrations started, but stopped quickly, due to a linesman flag, who had spotted a foul from a Sticklandttttt player.

Full Time
Revolutionarian Island 1 (Maeda 47')
Michael Sticklandttttt 0
(RI Man of the Match: Kantruva)

Match Day 4

Revolutionarian Island vs Da Philelfya Empiya

Revolutionarian Island will have high hopes of beating Da Philelfya Empiya when they meet up next match day. RI will hope to take a high morale when they play the new top-spotted team after beating the previous top-spotted team. If Revolutionarian Island happen to lose this match, many critics would be right in assuming that RI would be as good as eliminated.

Form

Revolutionarian Island
LW------

Da Philelfya Empiya
WW------

Revolutionarian Island Team News

Krusciv returns from suspension after being sent off against Jacobian Tribes.
Manichov unlikely to be risked against Da Philelfya Empiya and given more time to recover from the achilles injury sustained against Jacobian Tribes.

Revolutionarian Island Goalscorers List
Maeda (1)
Über (1)

A shock has come out of the MSFA as head coach Michael Stickland had sex with secutery Billy-Bob Bush his job is at risk and has been told today to reach the next round or face a court for sexual harsment and the sack. This is not the first time somebody sleept with Billy-Bob Bush as ex-chief executive Kory Gernager of MSFA also was found to have sleept with him. Buffy Barry is the main name coming up for the Michael Sticklandttttt as he managed to win all the trophies this year in Fatter Then Your Mates Mum for his team Yopal United. Other manager that could take over if Michael Stickland does not get to the next round are Garry Opaltimmer, Falala Falopian or a shock resigning of ex coach Jop Gersten.

Gupta Team Wins, Loses Twice

The team from The Gupta Dynasty arrived in Vilita with no sense of awe; they were in a strange land playing a sport that was not invented by them, and they were not afraid. Most, however, would be, and the Gupta team seemed to know that; they seemed to revel in their not fear, and seemed to boast that "here we are! Come and get us."

Game 1: Athestan [1]-[0] The Gupta Dynasty

The Gupta team did not really get the start they were looking for in Vilita and to their professional football days. They did not get the win that they had been hoping for, courtosy of the Athestan team, which while it was not amazing, still beat the Gupta team. Starting Goalie Arjun Rampal, however, showed skill and fortitude in several of his saves, a blessing for the new team.

Game 2: The Gupta Dynasty [1]-[0] Crendonia

"This is more like it!" Captain Madhav Sen said in his post-game interview. HE had a right to be pleased. For the first time in history, a Gupta team had won a game, this one against Crendonia. However, it was not against whom that mattered. It could have "been against the Southern Deccan, for all I care!" said the jubilant captain. "All that matters is that we won."

Once again, Goaljeeper Arjun Rampal

OOC:Will finish soon. Sorry for this continous non-finishing, just I've got very little time these days.

Cestus wander through the streets of the Viltian city. The pendant hadn't been working at all, and Coach Filon had still managed to pull off a 1-0 win. Granted, the TSA hadn't been too chuffed at having Satan and his legions sitting in the stands roaring like the tormented furies that they are, but still, this was making Filon look good and him look bad.

He kicked a piece of litter as he entered a run-down part of town. If he had known that the politics were going to be this bad, he'd have stayed in Heaven.

His musings were interrupted by a stoned homeless man who shakily pulled out a knife and demanded money. Cestus kicked him hard in the solar plexus, said in a even tone of voice "I'll see you in Hell," and walked off.

He dodged into a dingy fast food joint just down the road, ordered a burger and fries from the surly teenager at the counter, and sat down. He paged through a small red book, muttering to himself. He stopped, pulled out what looked like a cell phone, and placed a call. He left the restaurant with the jaunty step of a man who has just solved the biggest problem he was facing.

This is An Archist News, your official station for the Baptism of Fire Cup.

Patty Paterson: The An Archists pulled of another win with yet another shut out from goal keeper Robert Robertson. Soccer analysists have been surprised by his play this tournament. John, can you elaborate on this matter?

John Johnson: Simply put, he's been the best player in the tournament. When you only have two defenders and three midfielders, noone expects anything close to a shutout. Robertson has been amazing.

Patty Paterson: Several commentators have discussed a possible link between Robertson's improved performance and the lack of marijuana in Bettia. Robertson, himself, commented on the issue earlier.

Robert Robertson: Yeah dude! There like, isn't any good weed here in Bettia. It's sad. Why would a country want to illegalze pot? I just don't get it.

Patty Paterson: In other soccer news, John JOhnson scored his first goal of the tournament and Harrison scored his third on a great long ball from Fredrickson. The An Archists are now second in their pool.

This has been a presentation of An Archist News, the official station of the Baptism of Fire Cup.

Father Innocent - Demon Slayer

Fr. Innocent had been having a tough time of it in Vilita. The forces of the Prince of Darkness were proving tougher than he'd anticipated. Worst of all, he'd been faced with a real moral quandry when Satan's Legions of Evil, in the form of the Anathematic Republics, had faced the heretical Protestants of Pastorville - who might yet find themselves playing junior grade football in the firey pits of Hell if they didn't turn away from their heretical ways and join the one true Church.

Now, despite his regular surreptitious pre-match exorcisms at Vilitan stadia, it looked as if the Father of Lies would be sending his team into the knock-out stages of the tournament... Would there be no end to his victories?

Fr. Innocent sat down, and repeated the Jesus prayer three hundred and thirty three times. He felt soothed now. He grasped his crucifix, slung his collection of Holy Icons over his shoulder, and sprayed some Holy Water around the goal where the Hordes of Heresy and so recently scored their winning goal against the Solar Association. Perhaps his best tactic would be to watch and observe the Anathematic Republics, and take that information back to the Archregimancy, just in case they were drawn against each other in the World Cup qualifiers... then the Monastic Republic's team of footballing monks would stand a much better chance against the Heretics.

*the following scene takes place in Pastorville Head Coach Reverend Brown's office*

Reverend Brown: What did you say he was up to?

Reverend Carter: It was impossible to tell what Fr. Innocent was up to. Our intelligence tell us that he's been spying on Anathematic Republics, but they haven't been able to discern why.

Reverend Brown: The Archregimancy is another Christian nation, so they have many reasons to keep an eye on those heathens.

Reverend Carter: Could they be worried about facing them in WC XXV and getting beat?

Reverend Brown: Not likely. The Archregimancy is an experienced side that should have no problems with the heathens should they meet in the WC.

Reverend Carter: What do you think about The Archregimancy considering us to be heretics?

Reverend Brown: We will show them the type of Christian love that Christ demanded by not doing evil of that nature in return. That also means we will not try to hinder Fr. Innocent's work, whatever it may be.

Reverend Carter: Does that mean that we will share our knowledge about the heathens with them?

Reverend Brown: Only if they ask for it. Not that we know much more than they do.

Reverend Carter: Who do we play next, anyway?

Reverend Brown: Aztec Kingdom. It should be a very tough match, but if we believe that we can win, then we'll definitely have a chance to do so.

Reverend Carter: And what if we believe that we can win, but lose?

Reverend Brown: Then we'll know that it wasn't God's will for us to win that match. It's time for practice. We need to be ready for the match, in case God decides to bless us with success.

Bettia Section - Matchday 4 Results

Group G

Newcommunist Republics 0-1 An Archy
Bakostrovia 3-1 Corruptomania

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Andossa Se Mitrin Vega 3 3 0 0 11 3 8 9
2 An Archy 3 3 0 0 7 0 7 9
3 Newcommunist Republics 3 1 0 2 5 3 2 3
4 Bakostrovia 4 1 0 3 3 12 -9 3
5 Corruptomania 3 0 0 3 3 11 -8 0Andossa Se Mitrin Vega and An Archy qualify for next round.
Bakostrovia will be eliminated unless Newcommunist Republics lose by eleven goals (!).


Group A

Revolutionarian Island 1-0 Da Philelfya Empiya
Jacobian Tribes 3-0 Shearer Hell

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Michael Stricklandtttttt 3 2 0 1 5 2 3 6
2 Da Philelfya Empiya 3 2 0 1 5 3 2 6
3 Jacobian Tribes 4 2 0 2 7 6 1 6
4 Revolutionarian Island 3 2 0 1 3 2 1 6
5 Shearer Hell 3 0 0 3 1 8 -7 0Shearer Hell eliminated.


Group S
Qualification Playoff, First Leg

RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo 2-1 Israel4Ever

2-0 win and top of the group!

"Cuation faced a potentially dangerous Gupta Dynasty with both teams having lost their first game but coming back to win their second. Both sides playing 4-5-1, their was fear that this would be a game of boring tactical play in the middlefeild. The fears proved unfounded as Cuation used its training to be a constant threat while keeping things tight at the back.

From the start, Cuation played long balls for Peter Tanner to knock down, bypassing the Gupta midfeild. When Cuation lost the ball, hard but fair tackles by the defence and Abel ensured that the ball was ready to be hit back up the pitch within seconds.

In the fifteenth minute Heskey Anderton knocked the ball down for the overlapping Leslie Butcher who, in space, hit a powerful cross for Peter Tanner to head into the net with ease, Arjun Rampal helpless to prevent it.

With the 10,000 Cuation fans inspired by the goal and in turn, the crowd inspiring the players, Cuation dominated the rest of the half. Often playing in a 4-2-2-2 formation, the Gupta defence was constantly streched but due to a mixture of wasteful shooting and the brilliance of Arjun Rampal, the score was kept down.

In the fourty fourth minute a hit and hope ball by Philip Cole cuased havoc with no Cuation player able to force the ball in and the defence unable to clear it. Finally the ball fell into the path of Roy Ferguson who blasted the ball into the net.

Coming off at half time, Jude was delighted with the performance and things looked set to make the day a memorable win. However in the fourty sixth minute everything went wrong. Roy Ferguson seemed to take offence at something Sachin Dravid said or did and Punched the striker. Despite clearly being provoked, Roy was Red Carded by a increasingly biased ref.

Chaning to a 4-4-1 formation, Gionvanni was replaced by Jamie Hargreves and Cuation played a defensive game, looking to play out time. Gary Jens had a fair amount to do and again showed good form as his defence put up with increasing pressure. Gary Jens was booked for arguing after yet another duboius freekick was given against Cuation. A freekick which he promptly saved

The bad refree continued to pick on our poor team booking Abel Robinson, Sol Major and Jonathan Yan for late tackles as the match wore on. I'm sure some propganda minions from Gupta will claim Cuation team played dirty but our brave lads fought on and kept a clean sheet despite tiring in the last ten minutes.

Interview

Jude: "I am glad of another victory, with six points and top of the table, we have a good chance of qualifying for the next round if we win our next game. Thanks to the refree, we will be forced to work on intgergrating Jamie for one match in Roy's place and we got too many cards given against us. We will work on shooting, intergrating Jamie into the starting lineup and keeping our fitness high. Hopefully we will win and qualify but I'm sure Crendonia will prove tougher then people think and the Macabee's will catch up, pushing us for the top spot."

Vilitan Region - Matchday 4 Results



Group C

Cuation [3]-[1] Crendonia
Athestan [0]-[5] The Macabees


Group C----------
[1] Cuation 4 3 0 1 7-4 9
[2] The Macabees 3 2 0 1 10-4 6
[3] The Gupta Dynasty 3 1 0 2 4-5 3
4- Crendonia 3 1 0 2 6-9 3
5- Athestan 3 1 0 2 1-6 3



Group T

The Solar Association [1]-[1] Rordia
Pastorville [4]-[2] Aztec Kingdom


Group T--------------
[1] Anathematic Republics 3 2 1 0 6-3 7
[2] Pastorville 3 2 0 1 8-6 6
[3] Aztec Kingdom 3 1 1 1 6-6 4
4- Rordia 3 0 3 0 5-5 3
5- The Solar Association 4 0 1 3 2-7 1



Group Y

Kudlastan [1]-[0] Spookyville

Kudlastan lead 1-0 on aggregate going into match #2.

Today another shock has come out of Michael Sticklandttttt as national coach, Michael Stickland, has been shoot deadby known homophobe,Rev.Tariq Ihategays. This all happend after revaltions that Michael Stickland had been sleeping with Billy-Bob Bush. Tariq had only one thing to say:
"I hate bloody poofs they will kill the country"
The lads did not seem to mind though and said they never really liked him and were happy that Buffy Barry had been placed in charge. In the press conferance Buffy Barry said this:
"With that gay twat out of the way we can focus on winnig this cup. I have never lost a game in my manageral life and want to keep it that way. The lads and I know were the best team in the world even though this is are first cup, hell were not even ranked yet but were the best in the world."
When asked about his links to Rev.Tariq Ihategays and the posiblity of him hiring out the known hit man he picked up his chair and throw it at the journalist. The journalist is now having Buffy charged with ABH. On a happier note Dida the 33 year old nation goal keeper has been made captain for the rest of the tornament he will be replacing Zidane who today flew home in retaliation to the hiring of Buffy Barry.

Cuation Mourns Death of Manager Michael Stickland

Before the match today against Crendonia, word reached the squad about the shock death of Michael Stickland, who had taken his team to top of group A only to be killed and insulted.

Cuation's manager, Jude, expressed condemnation to the nation and team Michael Stricklandtttttt: "Michael was a respected manager who has done a fantastic job with a team of medicore hopefuls with an ego the size of my nation. His death should be mourned and the killer tried for murder but instead I heard the act is being celebrated. We will wear a black armband today as a sign of respect for such a manager. If rumors about his sexuality where the cuase of his death, then I will make sure to get a lot of security for myself should my team have the dishonour of facing Stricklandtttttt. I wish for a full and open inquiry to be made about why a coach has been murdered!"

OC: I'll rp match tomorrow in sep post tomorrow. No offence to anyone in this post, I was playing to character

Parid Post-Today-Times-Tribune-Daily-News-Subjagation-Update- Dispatch-Telegram- Picayune

Inside: Report on the boringness of Collonie

Collonie to face Milchama in friendly match

In preperation for the second round of the Baptism of Fire Cup for Collonie and the upcoming World Cup XXV for Milchama a friendly match was agreed upon yesterday. MFA President Calvin Chintermantoman said, "We want Collonie to do as well as possible in the BoF and we believe that a two week could be damaging to them so we are going to help them out and play them so that they can go farther." CFA President Claude Van Pune said, "We wanted something anything for our team to play and Milchama was all to willing to help us. We thank them and wish them luck in the World Cup." The match will be played next week and will correspond with the BoF matchday 5. The match will be played in Milchama which is closer to both Vilita and Bettia.

PASTORVILLE IN GREAT POSITION TO QUALIFY IN BAPTISM OF FIRE

Pastorville was blessed with a 4-2 victory over Aztec Kingdom yesterday in their latest BoF match. The Pastorville defense wasn't as sturdy as it typically is, but the offense made counter-attacking look very easy against the AK defense. Reverend Harris opened and closed the scoring for Pastorville, while Reverend King and Reverend Carlson also added goals. Harris' second goal of the match came on a penalty kick after he had been brought down from behind in the box moments before by a AK defender. The victory leaves Pastorville only one point behind the heathens going into the final match of the qualifying round of the BoF, and 4th place Rordia is three points behind Pastorville. Putting it simply, if God blesses Pastorville with a draw or win against Rordia in their next match, Pastorville qualifies for the next round of the BoF. It is not even out of the question that God could bless Pastorville with a group championship with a win and a heathens loss against AK. The Pastorville Soccer Association is calling on the entire nation to pray for God's blessings upon the soccer team in the final match of the qualifying round of the BoF.

Cestus was moping through the streets of the city. Those dang evangelicals from Pastorville were creeping up in the standings, and a loss to the Aztecs could relegate the Heretics to second or third place. Not a good way to get back into Satan's good graces (figuratively speaking).

His phone buzzed, and he checked the caller. It was Phenm, his imp secretary. "Boss? This Phenm. Don't be shooting messenger."

Cestus started to boil. "Now what?"

"Nobody here too happy 'bout Pastorville whipping Aztecs."

"What control do I have over this? Somebody get that prima donna Rex-"

"Can't help out, man. This too big. Satan himself on warpath. When he ain't happy ain't nobody happy. And Coach-man..."

"Filon? What's he been up to?"

"Coach-man not saying that many nice things 'bout you, Boss. Said he wanted to talk with you last night 'bout plans for Aztecs, and you aint there."

"He could just, y'know, PICK UP HIS BLESSED PHONE AND..."

"Ouch, ouch Boss you hurting poor Phenm's eardrums with your swearing STOP STOP STOP PLEASE..."

"Fine. Now quit yapping."

"Coach-man be saying he didn't want to jump through no red tape, or something"

"Hell is made of red tape. Without red tape it wouldn't be Hell, just a giant blast furnace. He's going to have to get used to it someday."

"Someday not yesterday, Boss. Probably not today, either. He want you back. Satan say he have some words for you too. Probably ones that hurt Phenm's eardrums as well."

"Fine, I'm maybe 20 minutes from the hotel, I'll be back as soon as I can." He hung up, turned, and stormed back to the hotel, fuming all the way.

Imperials Pull out of Another Victory!

In a brilliant victory, the Golden Throne pulled a five-zero victory over Athestan, ensuring the Golden Throne's spot in either second, or tied for second, giving it a greater chance to make into the finals of the Baptism of Fire Tournament. The streets of Vilita are filled with the forty thousand fans that flocked the country for either tourism or the games.

The first goal was made within minute three for an early point by Otto Mannerheim, while the second was scored in minute nineteen by Wilhelm Großkopf, and the third was scored again by Otto Mennerheim in minute thirty-seven, ensuring a brilliant three to zero lead against Athestan. The fourth and fifth goals were scored by Franz Seydlitz in minutes seventy-seven and eighty-four, sealing the victory at five-zero

This victory gives the Golden Throne six points, giving it the second position within Group C, while Cuation, a victim of the Golden Throne, retains first position with nine points. Tied for the other positions are Athestan, Crendonia [who had just lost against Cuation] and the Gupta Dynasty who had its bymatch today. Tomorrow, the Golden Throne plays the Gupta Dynasy which will decide who retains the second position, giving the former nine points, or the latter six points, which would actually tie the two teams for second.

However, the team is exilirated, and Otto Mannerheim, the top scorer of the team, underscored the event,
"We played brilliantly today, and I'm glad. We made up for the loss against Crendonia with a great victory against Athestan. Five to zero is a great score. We were lucky that Crendonia lost though, since a victory by them would have put them as tied, and so would have been Cuation, and then we would have really been in a very shaky position. Fortone nonwithstanding, we did damn good."

The ealrier San Marino-Spain allusion before the Crendonia game really applied here, as San Marino had lost five-zero against Spain, and that just happens to be today's score. Furthermore, today's victory truly expands the team's and the fan's hope for the final group match, and for the Baptism of Fire finals. Nonetheless, after the Crendonia debacle the team has learned not to underestimate any other team.

In the Empire the administration has reiterated their hopes that they will continue funding to the national team, and so far the team looks likely to receive all the funding they will need for the future, especially with this victory on their shoulders. Nonetheless, the resin from the defeat agaisnt Crendonia remains amongst all.

The Macabees : Athestant
5 : 0

Bettia Section - Matchday 5 Results

Group G

An Archy 1-2 Andossa Se Mitrin Vega
Newcommunist Republics 6-0 Corruptomania

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Andossa Se Mitrin Vega 4 4 0 0 13 4 9 12
2 An Archy 4 3 0 1 8 2 6 9
3 Newcommunist Republics 4 2 0 2 11 3 8 6
4 Bakostrovia 4 1 0 3 3 12 -9 3
5 Corruptomania 4 0 0 4 3 17 -14 0



Group A

Da Philelfya Empiya 4-2 Michael Stricklandtttttt
Revolutionarian Island 0-0 Shearer Hell

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Da Philelfya Empiya 4 3 0 1 9 5 4 9
2 Revolutionarian Island 4 2 1 1 3 2 1 7
3 Michael Stricklandtttttt 4 2 0 2 7 6 1 6
4 Jacobian Tribes 4 2 0 2 7 6 1 6
5 Shearer Hell 4 0 1 3 1 8 -7 1Michael Stricklandtttt qualify for the next round courtesy of their 3-1 victory over Jacobian Tribes on Matchday 2.



Group S
Qualification Playoff, Second Leg

Israel4Ever 0-0 RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo(RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo win 2-1 on aggregate)


Regional Quarter-Final Draw

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega vs Michael Stricklandttttt (Shubunkin Park, Akani Sands)
Da Phililfya Empiya vs Revolutionarian Island (Heol Angharyd, Ceffinton)
Collonie vs An Archy (Thamitra Gate, Tamrida)
RyukyuDaizoKazanNampo vs Newcommunist Republics (Al-Fath Stadium, Sukatra)

SEA DRAGONS REMAIN UNDEFEATED!

Today the ASMV team moved past An Archy in a very hard fought battle to remain perfect so far in the BoF. Once again, defense reigned suppreme as both teams failed to score in the first half. Early in the second half, a mental collapse by An Archy allowed Pablo Iglesias to score twice within a four minute span. After that both teams settled back into the high intensity defense of the first half. It seemed that An Archy would fail to score in the match until a late goal put them on the board.

Shaun Conarky had this to say following the match - "They were very tough. Both teams left it all on the field. They should be poud of their team's performance so far. We wish them the best of luck in the next round."

ASMV Looks to Quarter Final Match against Michael Stricklandttttt

"We are very pleased with our performance in the BoF thus far" said Pablo Iglesias. "But we havent won anything yet. MS has a good team or else they would not still be alive in this tournament. We do feel good about our chances, though. As long as we continue to play our game, we should be fine"

Unami Banta-Nbai had this to say - "I proud of way we play. We continue to be physical and aggressive. Our defense do job so far. We continue it"

In a statement moment ago, Sea Dragon GM, Edgar Moroni announced that ASMV would join Cuation in wearing the black armbands in remembrance of Michael Strickland for the remainder of the BoF. "It is just something we feel that we need to do. He was a great coach and teacher of the game. He will be missed." Moroni also requested extra security for the quarterfinal match-up should the Michael Stricklandttttt team or fans take offense to the wearing of the armbands.

Cuation 3-1 sees them through

"The whole Nation of Cuation will be spending the next few days in party and till Match Day 5 is over, the players have been given time off to get much needed rest. When they return, work on dealing with pacy attacks and general team defending will be the majority of the work though fitness as always remains the main concern of the staff."

"After a humliating defeat to the Macabee's 3-1, the team has come in strong, winning 1-0, 2-0 and 3-1 to secure qualifcation. If the Macabee's win their last match, as expected they will, Cuation will lose top postion on goal diffrence but hat won't blunt the team's morale and we look forward to the next round."

Match

The team came out of the tunnel with black armbands, as they will for the rest of the tournement, in mourning for respected mananger Michael Strickland. The team also started with Jamie Hargreves in place of the suspended Roy Ferguson and from the kick off, the teams shape seemed disjointed.

Despite Crendonia's recent upset over the Macabee's, this match was expected to be a walkover but throughout the first half, it was Cuation who where outplayed. The defence and Abel Robinson played well, keeping chances down but they still Gary Jens to make sevral quality stops, the best being a parry from a close range header from one of many corners.

In the thrity third minute Jamie gave away the ball, just outside the box, to the number 8 who hit a fierce shot that Gary Jens could only get a fleeting touch onto as the ball flew into the net. As Gary bawled at Jamie, Jude looked frustrated.

As the pressure continued, Cuation where lucky when the number 9 missed an gaping net with Gary Jen stranded in no mans land. Coming off at half time having created nothing, the team looked ashamed and the 20,000 Cuation fans where silent.

In the second half, the pressure was slightly less and when a long ball was carlessly headed behind in the fifty sixth minute for a corner, few could realise the revival would be sparked. Timothy Ashton powered it into the box and Jonathan Yan rose unmarked to equalise.

Almost immediatly afterwards, Jame Hargreves commited one too many bad tackles and was booked Jude changed things bringing off Jamie Hargreaves, on came striker Rual Mendisez. The team changed to a 4-4-2 formation.

The team now was more stable and started to put pressure on the Crendonia defence that just seemed to panic everytime someone got near the box. Luck was on the defences side though as balls just curved away, got deflected or the strikers slipped when good chances came.

Finally in the seventy second minute Giovanni Hatzori was tripped as he dribbled into a good postion outside the box. Getting up quickly Giovanni Hatzori curled the ball around the 5 man wall and into the net.

2-1 and the relif of staff, players and crowd could be felt. The team relaxed a bit but not enough to allow the lead to slip, everynow and again testing the panicy defence with a counter attack.

From one such move in the eighty ninth minute , the number 5's poor backpass allowed Rual Mendisez to round the keeper and score. 3-1 and the game was over and qualifcation secured.

A slightly woprrying performance but the team should show stability with Roy's return for the next match

Vilitan Region - Matchday 5 Results



Group C

Athestan [3]-[0] Crendonia
The Macabees [1]-[1] The Gupta Dynasty


Group C----------
[1] Cuation 4 3 0 1 7-4 9
[2] The Macabees 4 2 1 1 11-5 7
[3] Athestan 4 2 0 2 4-6 6
4- The Gupta Dynasty 4 1 1 2 5-6 4
5- Crendonia 4 1 0 3 6-12 3



Group T

Pastorville [1]-[1] Rordia
Aztec Kingdom [1]-[3] Anathematic Republics


Group T--------------
[1] Anathematic Republics 4 3 1 0 9-4 10
[2] Pastorville 4 2 1 1 9-7 7
[3] Rordia 4 0 4 0 6-6 4
4- Aztec Kingdom 4 1 1 2 7-9 4
5- The Solar Association 4 0 1 3 2-7 1



Group Y

Spookyville [0]-[2] Kudlastan

Kudlastan advance 3-0 on aggregate.



Regional Quarter Finals:

Anathematic Republics - Kudlastan
Cuation - Athestan

The Macabees - Pastorville
Ratlea - Rordia

Somewhere in the Nemyan Strait...

Prince Culenkari arose from slumber on the Starblaydi vessel, in a semi-haze. He lifted himself out of the bed, walking out of the cabin, heading topside. The Prince's aide happened to be out there already, having woken up earlier, and in a better condition.

“Good morning, Sir”, said the aide, handing a cup of coffee to the Ratlean Ruler. The Prince accepted the cup, downing it instantly.

“Thanks, I sure needed that”, said Culenkari, with a half yawn and smile. He indicated to the laptop at the aide's side. “Any news for me there?”

“Nothing that requires immediate attention, though we have received the recording of last night's “BoF Today” on Channel Sport, if you'd like to view that.”

Culenkari smiled. “Thank you. I'll take it back to the cabin with me.”

With that, the Prince returned to his room, laptop in hand. He re-entered silently, hoping to not disturb his companion from the night before. He then walked over to the desk, opening the computer, and selecting the appropriate file. The intro music starts playing, as the Prince feels an hand touch his back.

“Good morning, Cooley”, giggles his bedmate from the night before. “What are you doing, writing about me in your little diary there?”

The Prince chuckled. “No, my dear, just simply catching up on some soccer action. My national team is playing in Vilita.”

“Ooh, soccer?” the girl hops out of bed, sliding into the seat occupied presently by the Prince. “May I watch too?”

“Why, of course”, says Culenkari, now mentally noting that he has two laptops, applying two different uses of the term.

Meanwhile, on the screen...

Champ Wickman: Good afternoon, everyone, from Vilita! This is BoF Today, broadcasting from outside Lunar Park, where just last night, the Ratlean National Team finished their undefeated run through the Group Phase with a 2-0 victory over Spookyville. The win pushed Ratlea through in this odd format, as they won the 4-team group Y. They will be joined in the next round by the top three teams from each Groups C and T, while Kudlastan and Spookyville will face off for the eighth and final spot in the Vilitan Region's knockout phase.

We turn now to my colleagues, Jack Wilson and Mark Atkins, for their comments.

Jack: Thank you, Champ. The Ratleans came into this tournament an unknown quantity, like most of the sides here. The best thing they had going for them was their choice of manager, deciding to bring in Starblaydia's Giannis Berisha, fresh off his stint in Vilita with FC Almintora, to lead the young side.

Mark: Not only that, but Berisha also made the decision to bring his entire pool of Ratlean Nationals with him- all 34 players! He came to the point where for the first two matches, he used almost entirely different lineups, even changing over the benches as well.

Champ: We should talk about that, actually. As we saw, Berisha went with two different lineups, not to mention two different formations against Alan Shearer Heaven and Kudlastan, but in the end, went to back to the 3-5-2 used against ASH late in the match with Kudlastan, but also in the 2-0 win over Spookyville. Do you think we see a full lineup finally in place for the Ratleans?

Jack: Definitely. The only two players to see action in both matches were Rex Garza and Johnnie Fraser, who came in as subs in the Kudlastan match, and it can be argued that especially Garza was a key to victory in both matches. They both also started against Spookyville, with Garza's set piece setting up the first goal in the match, so I'd be very surprised to see many more changes to this lineup.

Mark: Looking beyond these two, most of the lineup truly did come together in the Spookyville match. Reed Goodman's saves to nab his second clean sheet secured his place as Ratlea's #1 keeper going into qualifying, and with the way Kenny Fowler and Albert Hayes stepped up in the back, they should be two of the three defenders the rest of the way.

Champ: It has been a good run for the Ratleans, indeed. Now let's talk about some other action in the BoF, especially with the violence in Bettia. Michael Strickland, appropriately the manager for the Michael Stricklandtttttt National Team, was gunned down by a fellow Stricklandian, who was then arrested and extradited back to the main land. However, in replacing Strickland with Buffy Barry, the Stricklandians lost Zidane, reducing their roster to 10, as they brought now reserves with them.

Jack: This move looks to be disastrous for the Stricklandians, who are precariously close to dropping out of advancing. With only 10 men, they lose a significant tactical, not to mention simply a personnel advantage. Any side that plays the full eleven should come out on top.

Champ: When we return, we will discuss the odd result in Vilita, where the Ratleans supposedly lost a match they weren't even scheduled to play! But first, a word from our sponsors.

In what seems to be the strangest case in the history of Michael Stricklandttttt it has come out to today that Michael Strickland was last relative of the countrys royal family over thrown 100 years before. Many had recantly be calling for a reinstatement of the monarchy and Rev. Traiq Ihategays may now also be charged with tresion as well as murder and because of this he may also be killed. On a happier note the nation's team just got through due to no known reason as of yet. The next team Michael Sticklandttttt will now have to face Andossa Se Mitrin Vega who have yet to lose a game. The new coach Buffy Barry has named the following squad:
Nelson Dida
Cafu
Alessandro Nesta
John Terry
Paolo Maldini
Frank Lampard
Claude Makelele
Ronaldinho
Kaka
Samuel Eto'o
Andriy Shevchenko
Subs:
Petr Cech
Roberto Carlos
Cristiano Ronaldo
Arjen Robben
Thierry Henry
The hopes are high of the team as they need a good ranking going into the world cup soon. As of yet the team have yet to proform and the death of old coach Michael Strickland could effect there chance of the win but the lads seem oddly unaffected by his death almost as if they knew it was going to happen.

After Cestus returned to the hotel, Satan called him up to his room and beat him to within an inch of his life (not that he would ever die, just be in even worse pain than usual) and threatened to send him back to Hell to supervise the Nazis locked up in rabbinical school.

Cestus begged for mercy, got kicked out of the room to stop his whining, and found himself magically compelled to remain in the hotel when he tried to leave to go watch the game. Swearing, he went upstairs, plopped down in his room, and switched the T.V. to the game.

He picked up the T.V. and hurled it from the hotel at a passing monk when the Aztecs scored early on to make it 1-0. He then willed the T.V. back through the window and fixed it using dark magic. He turned it on to see the welcome sight of coach Filon sweating on the sidelines. "Anything to make the bastard bake," he thought.

He didn't need to worry, as Cardinal Humbert put one in three minutes later to tie it up. Filon was beaming ten minutes later when Humbert popped another one in off a corner. When the half came, Cestus was in a self-willed drunked stupor. He flipped the T.V. off and willed himself to pass out.

Four hours later, Phenm banged on his door. Cestus sobered himself up and opened the door.

"Eh, what now?"

"Boss, Satan say we win and you can keep your balls another day. I tell him that me looked in your room two times now and didn't see any balls, but he just laughed and said I wasn't looking in the right spots. What he mean?"

"Eh, nothing. What's next?"

"Umm...dinner?"

"No, you blundering moron, what TEAM will our FOOTBALL squad play next?"

"Kud-la-stan. What is Kuddlestan, boss?"

"Kudlastan? Umm...I don't know. All I know is that they'll somehow manage to get my butt in trouble again. What's for dinner?"

"Dunno."

"Then why don't you go find out?" Cestus slammed the door and channel-surfed for a bit. He watched highlights from the Kudlastan-Spookyville game, figured it wouldn't make a bit of difference, and headed down to dinner.

PASTORVILLE SUFFERS TO DRAW, QUALIFIES FOR REGIONAL QUARTERFINALS

Pastorville played horribly yesterday in their final BoF qualifying round match against Rordia, but still managed to escape with a 1-1 draw that qualified them for the regional quarterfinals. Rordia dominated the play throughout the match, scoring in the 33rd minute for a 1-0 lead, but Pastorville evened the match on a counter-attack in the 81st minute when Reverend Harris passed back to Reverend Carlson, who one-timed the ball into the top left corner of the net, just beyond the reach of the Rordian keeper. In the regional quarterfinals Pastorville will match-up against The Macabees, which is an intriguing match-up for religious reasons.

The Empire Moves On To the Regional Quarter Finals!

Today's game against The Gupta Dynasty ended in a one to one draw, the only goal scored on the Imperials' side done by Otto Mannerheim in minute twenty-six, and immediately negated by a goal by the Gupta Dynasty in minute forty-two. The rest of the game stagnated in several offensives and several defensive operation, and the game ended one to one, giving both teams an official draw. However, this one point put the team one point ahead of a victorious Athestan, which has six points, putting the Imperials at second within the group, two points under Cuation.

The regional quarterfinal game is between The Macabees-Pastorville, Cuation-Athestan, Anathematic Republics - Kudlastan and Ratlea-Rordia. Pastorville has noted a religious difference between the two, making the game highly interesting, unfortunately, the Empire is not Jewish, as one would suspect, but is 'Imperial Catholic' in faith, behind the Holy Church of the Broken Dawn (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Holy_Church_of_the_Broken_Dawn), headed by Pope Transguff I. Religion nonwithstanding, God is going to have very little to do in this next game, at least when taking in mind skill and mere fortune.

After his failure in the Crendonian game, goalkeeper Kahn is being reinstated as the principle goalkeeper for this match against Pastorville, after the secondary goalkeeper suffered a minor injury in one of his leg ligaments during the latter part of the game against The Gupta Dynasty, leaving him out of the Baptism of Fire for at least another three weeks. He still shows hope for being the principle goalkeeper during World Cup XXV, but the head coach has made clear that this information is far from decided.

With the Empire passing into the regional finals the fans and the country itself has gone wild, with ecstacy apparent in all directions. Indeed, the Baptism of Fire is fast coming to a close, and many hope that the Empire will do a great job in getting far within the tournament, although none are sure about its possibilities to enter the Baptism of Fire finals. Indeed, most just hope they make it to the semi-finals.

In favourites, the puck has passed from the Imperials, unfortunately, to Cuation, which has shown a great deal of skill in three straight victories, despite of their original defeat at the hands of the Empire's national football team. For sure, many believe that Cuation will make it to the finals, despite the abilities of the Imperials.

Nonetheless, only time will tell.

Cuation favs to make semifinals

Looking back at Group C

Cuation has come out on top, hitting a superb run of form since the humliating loss to the Macabee's in the first match. A 4-5-1 formation has often switched to 4-2-2-2 when attacking. Abel Robinson and Peter Tanner has been the teams best players

Macabee's are second but need to pick up a level of consistancy, winning 3-1 over Cuation and 5-1 over Athestan, they could only draw with Gupta and lost to Crendonia. They do have a much better goal diffrence then Cuation but perhaps they need to learn to beat little teams?

Athestan are a team that little is heard of from their own camp and Jude feels is a poor team. Somewhat got through ahead of the Gupta Dynasty, the worst team to get through to the quaters

Gupta Dynasty where an inexpirenced team who won over the hearts of the Cuation fans. A side with potential, it is felt in this nation that only luck prevented them from qualfying.

Crendonia wherre the whipping boys of the group, they still managed to beat the Macabee's. Deserved to go out and get the wooden spoon, they will need to improve everything to avoid falling early in the World Cup.

Regional Quarter Finals

Anathematic Republics - Kudlastan

The team from hell should win this easily enough having won three and drawn one, they are who I would bet on getting to the final and winning it. Kudlastan came through in a unique sort of group and this will show if they benfited from the way Group Y was made.

Cuation - Athestan

Two teams from the same group and we won 1-0 in the group match, we have to be considered the most likly to win this match. However we can not afford to get cocky and Athestan did qualify. An upset could happen but I think Cuation to win

The Macabees - Pastorville

I want Macabees to win and meet them in the final but this is a hard match to call. Both got seven points and failed to acheive a level of constitancy. Both however have strong teams and if Kahn regains form, the Macabee's may just have the edge

Ratlea - Rordia

Ratlea may struggle after two matchdays without games while Rordia got only four points and must be glad of its luck. Rordia may start hitting form now but I predict a close win for Ratlea

Comments on group and upcoming matches by manager of Cuation: Jude

Interview

Jude looked pleased at the draw and the modd coming from the camp is of confidence "We perhaps have the most favrouble draw of anyone in the Vilitan Region but we must not get cocky. Roy's return is a blessing for us and we will be working on fitness, team play, set peices and studying our last match with our oppenants for the best way to win."

Bettia Section - Quarter-Final Results

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega 4-1 Michael Stricklandttttt
Da Philelfya Empiya 0-0 Newcommunist Republics (After Extra Time. Da Philelfya Empiya win 3-1 on penalties)
Collonie 1-4 An Archy
RyukyuDaitoKazanNampo 1-3 Revolutionarian Island


Regional Semi-Final Draw

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega vs Da Phililfya Empiya (Stamping Ground, Lorshill)
An Archy vs Revolutionarian Island (Campus Ground, Grappenhall)

Reverend Brown: Do you see this, Reverend Carter? Cuation thinks we weren't consistent in qualifying.

Reverend Carter: Well, we did draw against the team that finished in 3rd.

Reverend Brown: In our last match. The first match was stolen from us, and we won our two matches in between. We were quite consistent for a team that finished in our position.

Reverend Carter: I totally agree with you, Reverend Brown, but what can we do about it.

Reverend Brown: We win our regional quarterfinal against The Macabees, and then go on to beat Cuation to prove that we do play consistent soccer.

Reverend Carter: How can we do that?

Reverend Brown: Practice. And lots of prayer.

Reverend Carter: Let's get to work, then.

This is An Archist News, your official station for the Baptism of Fire Cup.

Patty Paterson: A lot has happened over the long weekend in the world of soccer. Today the An Archists defeated Collonie one to four. Yesterday they lost their first match of the tournament in a thrilling one to two outcome against Andossa Se Mitrin Vega. The day before, the senior team pulled off a wonderful victory against Newcommunist Republics with a score of one to nothing in Robert Robertson's third consecutive clean slate.

John Johnson: Yes, it was an exciting weekend of soccer action. It is certainly unfortunate that we couldn't report on these spectacular soccer highlights earlier because of the long weekend.

Patty Paterson: Let's run down those highlights for the fans at home. Against Newcommunist Republics, striker John Johnson scored his first goal of the tournament, the game deciding goal in the seventy-seventh minute of play. It must have been a proud moment for you John.

John Johnson: Absolutely. As the life long fan of the game, I am so delighted to see my own son compete so successfully on the international stage.

Patty Paterson: Later in the game, An Archist keeper Robert Robertson completed his third consecutive shut out. His clean slate would end the next day at 238 goalless minutes, a team record that is sure to stand for a long time.

John Johnson That is, unless he breaks it himself.

Patty Paterson: Indeed. That match unfortunately ended in the An Archists first loss of the tournament. Today, however, after advancing to the elimination rounds, the team came together for a masterful four to one victory against Collonie. The play of the day came in the fifty-seventh minute as Fredrick Fredrickson scored his first goal of the tournament on a well placed header from a beautiful pass from Williamson. Tomorrow the An Archists will square off against Revolutionarian Island in the regional semi-final, in what looks to be a very exciting match.

This has been a presentation of An Archist News, the official station of the Baptism of Fire Cup.

OOC- Thanks KP and An Archy for telling me how to get in here with the link not working right.

Sea Dragons Crush Michael Stricklandttt 4-1

The Sea Dragons today moved into the regional semi-final to face Da Philelfya Empiya by defeating Michael Stricklandttt fairly easily. Goals from Pablo Iglesias(2), Malachi James (1) and the first ever goal from defensive standout, Unami Banta-N'bai, proved to be more than enough to seal the match.

Unami had this to say-"I very excited! Never have I done such before. Pablo say to me to follow him downfield, and I do. Luck shine me, cause I score! I know not how, but did."

Goalie, Shaun Conarky- "We came out very pumped up. Everything just went right for us today. I noticed on the board that An Archy also advanced today. Congrats to that team. We would love the chance to play them again. It would be a good match for both of us."

Coach D'Champaign - "Our Semi-Final match is against Da Philelfya Empiya. Thay have been really tough thus far. We will come out physical as always and see what happens."

"Youse guys ain't BSin' me, are ya?"

"No boss. We achully won da groups roun'."

"As in, came out first?" Jake turns from Butch ta da other guy, "Coach Jeff, is Butch levelin' wit' me?"

"Si." Coach Cabral is a man o' few words. Speshly wit' people who call him "Jeff."

"We blew past everybody else in our group?" Jake grinned like a shark.

"No." Jake stared at him, so Coach Cabral 'splained. "We did came in the first in the group called A, but we lost one of the matches, and there was nothing the easy about any other."

"How about this, ahh, whatchacallit, da next roun'?"

"Well, ya know boss, it's like single-limitation. One loss, yer out."

"An'?" Jake asked patiently.

"We won the Quarter Final match." Cabral said wit' pleasure.

"Dat's da first o' da single-limitations." Butch 'splained when Jake looked puzzled.

"Serious?"

Butch an' "Jeff" nodded.

Jake gave off wit' a earsplittin' howl o' triumph. Butch an' "Jeff" grinned at him.

Jake calmed. "OK, so how'd da secon' match go?"

"We ain't done it yet, boss."

"Gotcha. Who we facin'?"

"Some place name o' 'Andossa Se Mitrin Vega'."

Jake stared, den asked. "You kiddin' me?"

"No, Senor. That is the name of their country."

"Yeah, an' dey call der team da "Sea Dragons'."

Butch an' Jake shared a look, den laughed. "Cecil!" dey exclaimed toget'er.

Coach Cabral looked shocked an' confused; shocked causa insultin' a opponent, but mostly confused.

Vilitan Region - Knockout Stage Results

Regional Quarter Finals:

Anathematic Republics [4]-[0] Kudlastan
Cuation [4]-[1] Athestan

The Macabees [1]-[1] Pastorville (FTS)
The Macabees [1]-[4] Pastorville (AET)
Ratlea [3]-[2] Rordia



Regional Semi Finals:

Anathematic Republics - Cuation

Pastorville - Ratlea

Jude watched the draw with Igor, pleased with the result but tired but rest could wait to see who else was in the Semi's but one result cuaght Jude's eye

The Macabees [1]-[4] Pastorville (AET)

"I must learn to keep my mouth shut to the press. Pastorville are an even stronger side then I imagined if they can beat the Macabees 4-1, even if in extra time. I owe them and the Macabees an apolgy... not that I will give any in public. I wil send the Macabees a private one soon."

Anathematic Republics - Cuation

"Well now is the first time I am glad that I made Cuation worship only me though I would love to meet the Kind of Evil himself. As to football, we must work hard on our defence for the team from Hell is on the best form in this region. We are the underdogs I feel but to get to the semi's is not a bad achivment if we fail. My players have to give their all..."

Pastorville - Ratlea

"I don't know much about Ratlea but I'm sure they will be tough challengers for the Pastorville's but I fancy the team of priests to win and prove me wrong."

Somehow the next day, what Jude had said was leaked and was in every paper in Cuation and possibly a few others...

OC: do match tomorrow

It was the pregame briefing before the playoff match against Kudlastan. Cestus, coach Filon, Satan, Rex, Phenm and a bunch of others had gathered in their hotel's conference room to discuss tactics.

Some midlevel demon who Cestus had never met before stepped up to the front of the room. "Me no like this guy," whispered Phemn to Cestus. "He opens his mouth, not be able to close it afterwards."

"He'll keep it short, if he knows what's good for him," muttered Cestus. "Or he'll get it cut short for him."

"...and so, with the support of R&D, to which I am much indebted, and also with the..."

"Cut to the point," barked Satan from the head of the table.

"Um, yes sir. We have built a weapon for use against Kudlastan."

"A what?" bellowed Satan. "I'm still not completely clear on mortal football rules, but shooting someone is probably not -"

"Here's the deal," the demon in the front said. "It doesn't cause pain, far from it, it just - well, let me demonstrate -" He waved his hands and an image appeared of a naked woman.

"We're going to beat these guys with porno?" asked Filon. "There's rules against that also."

"It'll all be in their heads," said the demon. "Absolutely no physical or mental harm will be caused as a direct result of the operation of this..."

"Stow it," snapped Satan. "How does it work?"

"Point and click. It can't be continuous, obviously, but it'll give us momentary distractions at key points, which is all we need."

"Fine. We'll get you a seat that gives you a clear shot. Any mess-ups, and your ass is grass."

And so it was. After the game the Kudlastani coach gave a locker-room tirade in which he said "I bet you were too busy dreaming about the rewards for winning to put in any work at all, huh?"

Everyone was too embarassed to say yes.

A LITTLE EXTRA WORK GOOD FOR THE SOUL

Pastorville discovered the truth in that saying in their regional quarterfinal against The Macabees. Trailing 0-1 at the half, Pastorville got a goal from Reverend Anderson off a corner by Reverend Johnson in the 62nd minute to even the match. Pastorville continued to dominate the play after that, but couldn't score again in regulation. Then, in extra time, The Macabees tripped over their own feet and knocked down their own wall. A collision between The Macabees' keeper and one of their defenders left the keeper dazed, and Pastorville capitalized by pouring in three goals during extra time; coming off the feet of Reverend King in the 93rd minute, and Reverend Harris in the 97th and 101st minutes. Reverend Smith continued to do an exceptional job in the net, holding a potent The Macabees offense to a single first half goal. Pastorville now moves on to the regional semifinals, where they will match up with Ratlea, who beat Rordia in the regional quarterfinals. It should be an excellent match to watch.

This is Kellan Kildan of the ASMV News Network with a special update.

"Several papers around NS have reported a story that at first was met with disbelief and then anger here on the home front. The reports are comments made within Da Philelfya Empiya, referring to the national team in derrogatory and almost racist terms. Team and National officials have issued statements demanding an appology.

This has only served to solidify support for the team in the match against that nation that will take place shortly. Every member of the team is pumped and ready to make those offenders eat those words. We caught up with GM Edgar Moroni moments ago."

Moroni - "Well, well, well. Now we have something to inspire us. You can bet that when the match concludes tomorrow, they will have gained some respect for us!"

More news will be brought to you as we attain it.

Kellan Kildan, ASMV News Network

Bettia Section - Semi-Final Results

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega 3-1 Da Philelfya Empiya
An Archy 3-1 Revolutionarian Island

------------------

And we now cross live to FAB Headquarters to speak to Islwyn Forbes, chief executive of the Football Association of Bettia...

"Thank you. Joining me here is Stuart Abdul-Rahim, manager of Gabalfa Rovers FC. Stuart, if you would like to start the draw?"

"Certainly... *rummages around in trouser pocket* ...number one..."

"Andossa Se Mitrin Vega"

"...will play... number two."

"An Archy. And that concludes the draw for the Bettian Section Final, to be played at Stadiwm Bettia. Thank you and good night."

Sea Dragons Advance to Bettian Sectional Final!

Today is a great day for Andossa Se Mitrin Vega, as the World Cup team advanced to the Sectinal Finals In Bettia by way of a 3-1 handling of the loose-mouthed Da Philelfya Empiya. The mood was intense from Sea Dragon players as they avenged what they felt to be slanderous comments about their homeland. Goals from Pablo Iglesias, Malachi James, and the little used Pao St. Martinique were all the team needed as goalie Shaun Conarky came up with numerous huge saves during the match.

Shaun had this to say - "We wanted this one very badly. Fortunately things went our way. They had plenty of opportunities, but we came up with the plays that we needed to win"

In other action, Anarchy moved past Revolutionarian Island 3-1.

"This is the match that we wanted." said Pao. "Our first meeting was very good - and very close. We were fortunate to come away with the win in that one. The Bettian Final should be a great one indeed."

Thousands more ASMV fans have begun to depart to watch this match-up. The 102,000 seat Stadiwm Bettia should be awash in the light blue and yeloow of the Sea Dragons.

"We never expected to have this kind of success in our first international experience. It is very glorious for our nation!" replied Comrade Presidente, Storm Vega when asked about the team's performance. "Good luck to our team in this sectional final match-up! The red carpet shall be rolled out for our team upon their return. They are true national heroes."

This is An Archist News, your official station for the Baptism of Fire Cup.

Patty Paterson: Soccer fans in the Citizens' Club of An Archy are in a frenzy as the An Archists have just won another elimination match, this time against Revolutionarian Island by a score of three to one.

John Johnson: You can feel the excitement in the air! This is a truly wonderful time to be a sports fan in An Archy.

Patty Paterson: In the second minute of play, the An Archists took a very early lead on an athletic bicycle kick from Williamson. The match was tied in the seventeenth when Über beat An Archist keeper Robert Robertson in the top left hand corner. Robertson managed to hold Revolution Island scoreless for the rest of the match and the An Archists went on to when by a score of three to one. So far in the tournament Robertson has given up less than one goal per match despite only having two defenders back. Our reporters talked to him earlier today.

Robert Robertson: I'm in a zone right now. I just can't believe how well I'm doing. Honestly, though, I have to give alot of credit to Fredrick and Vinny. They've been spectacular.

Patty Paterson: Tomorrow the An Archists will take on the Sea Dragons of Andossa Se Mitrin Vega in the Bettian Regional Final. An Archist fans are expected to poor into Bettia to support their team.

This has been a presentation of An Archist News, the official station of the Baptism of Fire Cup.

4-1 and looking good

In a match dominated by Cuation and a panicky opposition back line, chances came often, that only four where scored was down both to the keeper and poor finishing. I doubt that anyone is going to complain though given the fine run of form that Cuation team is in.


A long ranger by Timothy Ashton opened up the scoring, in the fith minute. Cutting inside, Asthon was allowed too much room and his shot was hit hard and true, into the top corner from 15 yards. Why he wasn't closed down will always be a mystery

Giovanni Hatzori doubled the lead after good indivdual play, picking up a stray pass before deciding to torment his marker once more, going one way, then another. Finally he had enough and hit a curler beyond the helpess keeper in the thirty minute

Coming off at half time, the mood was relaxed and the team playing quality passing football. Jude was said to have reminded the team not to relax and let the opposition back into the game

Peter Tanner had been toiling effectivly alone up front and was looking for a goal to add to his day. It came in the fitfy minute, a good cross from the much malinged Heskey Anderton looked set to be claimed by the goalie but Peter Tanner got there first, heading into the empty net

Roy Ferguson was looking like a younger version of his self, helping out Abel a few times but mostly helping create havoc. Finnally he takcled a defender in the 65th minute and blasting the ball at goal. A poor shot but he goalie somehow missed the ball. 4-1

Relaxing Jude brought on, Peter Seamen, Rio Samba and Stanley Edward for Gary Jens, Sol Major and Heskey Anderton. The armband was given too Roy Ferguson. The team relaxed, just playing the ball around but not so much that they ever looked like losing the lead. However, a poor backpass by Rio Samba, who was under no pressure, cuaght Peter Seamen out for an own goal.

4-1 win but a hard match to come!

Vilitan Region - Knockout Stage Results

Regional Semi Finals:

Anathematic Republics [2]-[2] Cuation (FTS)
Anathematic Republics [2]-[4] Cuation


Pastorville [3]-[3] Ratlea (FTS)
Pastorville [5]-[3] Ratlea (AET)




Regional Finals:

Cuation - Pastorville

Cuation in the Final! 4-2!

Before match

The team had heard of claims of bias from the ref after Pastorville's match against Satan's own team. A ref that promptly retired after the match and rumors of dubois unproven cheating where all over the place. Knowing that the Anathematic Republics would beat Cuation in a fair match, Gary Seville was sent to...speak with the ref.

4-2 win later

While the team was celebrating from a shock win, Gary slipped away from the stands to fetch his "bodyguards." and was seen speaking with the ref again, something exchanging hands. The lucky refree was free to enjoy his earnings until a few days later, he was killed for his money and his car. Incidently the car ended up in Gary Seville's hands as well as a pay rise.

Cuation - Pastorville

Well the two strongest teams will face each other to be region winners and to progress to the last match, the final of the Bof for the Bettian region. Here is manager Jude to talk about the final

"Well the Pastorville team has proved me wrong and I belive are the team coming to the final as strongest but we will give them a good match. We will look to tigthen up our defensive work and I will remind my team that the team of preists worship a diffrent God, ie not me. I'm sure the fans will get their money worth in the final!"

The Match

Cuation was put under pressure from the off and only the blatent fouls, of which the ref let Cuation get away with more often then not, and the brilliance of Gary Jens meant only one goal was conceded in the first half by a somewhat lucky Cuation team.

However in their only attack of the first half, Cuation would equalise in the fourty third minute, a long goal kick by Gary Jens, headed on by Peter Tanner to a seemingly offisde Heskey Anderton whose aimless powerdrive hit the bar and bounced back out only for the ref to give a goal.

Coming off at half time at 1-1 the players, staff and fans could only be relived not to be losing 3-0. Everyone could only hope for a better performance in the second half. That is exactly what didn't happen, for twenty minutes the goal was seiged again, once more only the heroics of Gary Jens and bias by the ref meant Cuation only went 2-1 down.

In the last fiveteen minutes, Cuation seemed to gain a foothold in the match and swept forward in a desperate attempt to get an equaliser. However as the hellish defence held firm, the team started to hit and hope, long balls and long range shots being the best the team could come up with.

In injury time Timothy Ashton's cross was deflected behind for a corner. Everyone came into the box including goalie Gary Jens. Asthon's corner came in hard and fast, with Jonathan Yan impeding the Satanic goalie, Gary rose above the defence to head in a last gasp equaliser.

The bech where on the feet, jumping around and hugging in relif. Gary was mobbed as some fans invaded the pitch to join in the celebrations. Cuations' journalists where also in a party mood, one even dancing on a table. Why such idiots enjoy this annoying sport is beyond me...

2-2 at full time

Subsituions where made, Rual Mendisez coming on for scorer Heskey Anderton and Roy Ferguson making way for Stanley Edwards, the team changing to a 4-4-2 formation.

Yet again though Cuation started the half badly and when Gary Jens spilled a cross, it took a blatent handball on the line by Sol Major to save the day.

As the fresh legs started to make an impact, a so far quiet, Giovanni Hatzori made an impact, testing the opposition and bringing others into play. In the hundered and fifth minute, Giovanni burst past his marker and into the area before diving for a penalty. Up stepped Rual Mendisez who calmly placed the ball into the bottom right corner of the net.

The team held out for half time in comfort and Giovanni Hatzori was replaced by Rio Samba in a 5-3-2 formation. Soaking up the pressure in the second half, Cuation looked to play on the break but still Gary Jens had to make saves.

As the game neared its end, Stanley Edwards cross ended up in the goalie's hands only for Rual Mendisez to kick the ball out of those hands and tap the ball home.

4-1

Cuation faced the last few minutes with their backs to the wall but thanks to Gary and the ref, won the match to the fans delight

Interview

Jude was pulled from mobbing his man of the match keeper to talk to the press "What a game, we played hard but fair but still needed Gary to be on top form. Rual is also playing well and pushing hard for a starting place but we will be concertrating on fitness and our defensive work for the final. What a game!"

Editor comment

"Alas the match reporter was the only one we could print in time and we apolgise for these evil comments. We have contacted the police and the reporter is being charged with high treason. We will have Jade Manalinth, the Head Cheerleader writing for the final and we thank her for the help at such short notice."

Bettia Section - Regional Final Score

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega 4-1 An Archy

------------------

The FAB's heartiest congratulations go to Andossa Se Mitrin Vega, who now leave our shores and travel to Vilita to fight for the right to be crowned Baptism of Fire champions.

Commiserations to An Archy - but your tournament isn't over yet as there is still the small matter of the Third-Place Playoff to settle.

Sea Dragons Advance to BoF Finals!

This is Kellan Kildan with a Special News Update.

Today our national team squared off with An Archy for the right to advance to the finals of the BoF. Thousands of fans were on hand and millions more watching from home as the Sea Dragons cruised to a 4-1 victory. Goals from Pablo Iglesias (2nd and 58th minutes), Malachi James (33rd minute), and Pao St Martinique(88th minute) were all greated with deafening cheers from the smaller ASMV crowd. Following the game, hundreds of rabid fans stormed the field, tearing down the nets. Reports of mass street celebrations back home were also reported. Rumor had it that the field at Stadiwm Bettia had been painted in the blue and yellow of the Sea Dragons, but those reports proved to be false.

The BoF Championship will be played in Velita, against the winner of that section - Cuation or Pastorville. Both teams have been playing very well and either will be a tough match.

Presidente Storm Vega has requested that the people of ASMV cheer on and support the An Archy team as it competes for a third-place finish in the BoF.

PASTORVILLE BLESSED WITH ANOTHER LENGHTY VICTORY

It took Pastorville more extra time to defeat Ratlea, but in the end God blessed Pastorville with a 5-3 victory that advances Pastorville to the regional championship match against Cuation. Reports have it that Pastorville has a lot of recent Cuation publications underestimating Pastorville on the bulletin board in their locker room. It should definitely be a good match, and very likely will not be settled in the regulation 90 minutes. If nothing else, Pastorville should be grateful to Cuation for preventing another heated match-up between Pastorville and the heathens. Scoring for Pastorville were Reverend Johnson, Reverend Paulson, Reverend King, Reverend Carlson, and Reverend Harris, in that order. Johson's goal cut the Ralea lead to 1-2. Paulson brought Pastorville within 2-3 just before halftime. King tied the match-up in the 71st minute, sending us to extra time where Carlson and Harris were blessed with goals, giving Pastorville the victory and berth in the regional finals.

Vilitan Region - Knockout Stage Results

Regional Finals:

Cuation [3]-[3] Cuation (FTS)
Cuation [5]-[3] Pastorville (AET)


BoF Finals:

Cuation - Andossa Se Mitrin Vega
Tivali Ring Stadium, Alikki-Corra, Vilita

ASMV Sea Dragons
vs
Cuation Cacitinoa


The BoF Championship has been set. The Sea Dragons of Andossa Se Mitrin Vega journey to Vilita to face Cuation, the winner of the Vilitan Section.
ASMV enters the game undefeated, while Cuation has recovered from an embarrassing first game loss by winning every other game.

Both teams seem to derive energy from their hard, physical defense - so expect that to set the tone for the match. Both teams have made the best of their scoring chances with great plays. Pablo Iglesias (11 goals),Malachi James ( 6 goals), and Pao St Matinique (4 goals off the bench) look to head the ASMV offensive attack. While no Cuation player has recorded more than 3 goals in the tourney, they pose a vey tough threat as 8 different players have scored at least once.

Coach D'Champaign - "They have been very solid - not flashy -but solid. They will be a very tough challenge for us. They are consistent and bring much of the same defensive philosophy that we do."

Unami Banta-N'bai - "We ready for this game. We play tough. Match very big, ready make havoc to Cuation!"

Shaun Conarky - "I will have to be at the top of my game for this one. They have several guys who can score. They like to play rough in their opponents net, but that is fine. We play rough in here too."

Pablo Iglesias - "Don't expect me to get a lot of scoring chances. They surely have kept up with the stats. But if they focus on me, that leaves Malachi, Pao, and Evan to make their moves. Remember they performed extremely well when I was injured"

GM Edgar Moroni - "There were allegations in one match that Cuation had paid off the referees. We are looking into this and will make sure that it will not happen in this game."

The BoF Final should be a great one.

Cuation Cacitinoa
VS
ASMV Sea Dragons

Our brave lads have made it to the final as Vilitan Region winners, against the strong Bettia Section winners, the ASMV Sea Dragons. Both teams have had a hard fight to get this far but while the Sea Dragons are every punters fav to win, the Cuation team look certain to put up a strong fight.

The Sea Dragons have won every single game with some results, a strong backline and some great team play aided by some on form strikers. Cuation however suffered a slow and shaky start but once out of the group, have hit form with goals coming from all over the pitch, including the goalkeeper netting in a 4-2 win over the Anathematic Republics.

The game will no doubt not be one for the pursuits but lots of tactical and exciting player will keep the fans happy. Should be a good clean game with Cuation players in admiration of such skilled team as they face.

Manager Jude Takerath "We haveperformed well recently but we face the team of the Bof and I know both sides will give their all. I'm sure I will enjoy the tactical battle on and off the pitch but despite both sides defensive natures, I see a real cracker. I hope Gary Jens and Abel Robinson keep up the brilliant form for us in the final."

Captain Sol Major "We expect a tough game in trying to keeping chances down for the opposition, espically their goalscoring on form strikers. Still we will not give them an inch but I'm sure Gary will be tested many times. I'm really glad for Abel's hard work to help out when it matters, I will be intrested to see if they go wide to supply the front when Abel blocks the middle. Very tought and tiring game for me yet again, but enjoyable"

Goalscoring goalie Gary Jens "I'm looking forward to testing my skills after a great personal tournment for Mwah. After the first game, I had to fight back for my form and all but I have gained it as usal. I doubt I, or my opposite number, will get a clean sheet but they will not find me as the weak link."

Peter Tanner the tall target man "I expect they will have watched us and looked for ways of stopping our attacks. The fans may boo my lack of goals but I help the team with my hold up play! The final is the game I prove myself!"

Gary Seville, Head of Scouts looked unhappy "We are most hurt that the Sea Dragons would accuse us of cheating. We have not tried to sully them and I know the players are wounded by such nasty words. We will show them our ability and crush them on the pitch for such insults!"

I'm sure everyone looks forward to the final

OC: will write match against Pastorville's tomorrow

Third Place Playoff Result

An Archy 2-2 Pastorville
(After Extra Time. Score after 90 mins: 1-1. An Archy win 4-3 on penalties)

5-3 against the Holy Men

Winning the region final in a entertaining match was more then the manager had dreamed off at the start of the Bof, espically after losing to the Macabee's. The Cuation fans have been increasing in number as the team progressed further and further under the managment of Jude.

The team attacked right from the start, a ferice drive from Timothy Ashton, hitting the side netting in a the first minute an indicator of what was to come. In the seventh minute the attacking paid off, Timothy Ashton floating in a cross for Peter Tanner to head home.

Cuation kept putting pressure on but couldn't score, thanks to the tough defence, until the thrity third minute when Giovanni Hatzori got lucky in a collision with a defender, sprinting clear of the defence and dribbling past the keeper before shooting into an empty net.

Cuation's players seemed to relax and allowed Pastorville to pull one back before half time. In the second half, the players seemed to suffer from stage fright, allowing Pastorville to control the game and race into a 3-2 lead with twenty minutes left. Gary Jens had a fine game but was at fualt for the equaliser

As Cuation pressed forward for the last twenty minutes, it took the captain Sol Major and manager Jude to keep the players calm and not to get frustrated. Finally in the eigthy fifth minute a simple long ball from Philip Cole was met by Heskey Anderton whose looping header found its way under the bar

The match drew to the end of normal time and Cuation where relived to have equalised but Jude looked angry at how the game had almost been thrown away. On game Rual Mendiz and Stanley Edwards for Roy Ferguson and Heskey Anderton

Cuation came out in an attacking mood and procedded to dominate the first half of extra time. Giovanni Hatzori curled in a corner in the hundered and tenth minute towards the goaline with Abel Robinson getting the vital touch to divert the ball into the net.

In the second half, Cuation resorted to counter attack to relive the pressure and in the last minute, Giovanni Hatzori played the ball through for Leslie Butcher to smack the ball home

Congratulations to An Archy and Pastorville on their BoF finish.


Media Event!

Since the trajic death of Michael Strickland, both Cuation and ASMV have been wearing the black arm bands in his remembrance. Today several media organizations have organized a special event with the members and coaches of both teams being present to take a group photo and sign autographs. Several players are also scheduled to give interviews on the subject. Both teams seem more than happy to work together in this event which will also feature a telethon to raise money for the family of a great man whose time has ended to soon.

This has been Kellan Kildan of the ASMV News Network.

Controversy in Alikki-Corra

As the teams arrived in Alikki-Corra, Vilita for the much awaited final of the Baptism of Fire Cup, many had the recent passing of coach Michael Strickland on their minds. Many, that is, except the Vilitan's. Tivali Ring Stadium officials produced a decree to the head coaches of both the Cuation and Andossa Se Mitrin Vega, endorsed by Kabitana Liakora, the head referee from Turori for the important final match, instructing that no players would be allowed on the field sporting any armbans bar the captains armband, specifically pointing out that armbans in support of one Michael Strickland would not be tolerated.

Liakora, who is taking charge of his first Baptism of Fire Cup final, has previously reffed in the Semi and Quarter finals of this same competition, and is the first Turorian to be handed the role since the Pre-World Cup 19 Baptism of Fire Cup.

This is An Archist News, your official station for the Baptism of Fire Cup.

Patty Paterson: Over the weekend the An Archists lost to Andossa Se Mitrin Vega in the regional qualifier by a score of four to one. An Archist head coach Clark Clarkson spoke with reporters after the game.

Clark Clarkson: We really did give it our best shot. The result was somewhat disappointing, but I think we can be proud of our accomplishments in this cup. We're looking forward to the third place game in a couple of days. We really want to come home in the top three.

Patty Paterson: In the game Harry Harrison scored the only goal for the An Archist side and Robertson gave up the his first big score (four goals) of the tournament. The next game, the third place match against Pastorville, was one of the most exciting in the whole cup. The match was tied after ninety minutes of play at a score of one to one. Then after another ninety minutes the score was tied two to two. In penalty shots the An Archists won four to three with a miraculous save by Robertson. Here is the play by play from announcer John Johnson.

John Johnson: The Pastorville striker is preparing for the most important shot of his life. This could tie the game. Robertson looks focused, ready for anything. The Pastorville strike jukes to the right and places a perfect shot at the top left corner. Robertson got it with his finger, deflected it off the post!!!! An Archy wins the game!!! An Archy wins!!!

Patty Paterson: A great save by Robertson, the An Archists best performing player, seems like a perfect way to end a spectacular tournament.

This has been a presentation of An Archist News, the official station of the Baptism of Fire Cup.

Michael Strickland support banned!

With the squad about to go out for a media/charity event for the support of murdered Manager Michael Strickland's family, manager Jude got a decree with shocking rules. With the Sea Dragons also wearing armbands, the bond between the two looked set to produce a good clean match and raise funds for the family. Now a joyas final and fun charity event may be soured by staduim officals.

The manager has since sent in letters of complaint to ref Kabitana Liakora, the staduim and to the Bof orginisers, of which a copy has come into my hands.

Head cheerleader Jade Manalinth for Cuation24

Letter

To Kabitana Liakora

I am wondering why you feel that these armbands, in mourning for a great manager, should be banned? Both teams have worn it without complains since the tragic event so what has happend since the region finals that demand this unfair ban?

With a common cuase and both teams reputations for fair play, we where hoping the final would be a good clean fun game but now some of my players feel angry with you. Please could you explain why we can not wear a simple cloth on our arms?

Cuation manager Jude Takerath

Jude's room

The young manager woke up, refreshed after his nap, with mixed feelings. The ban on the armbands had annoyed him but he had the final, control of his nation gained thanks to the teams run and Jade was showing intrest in him. She had been most friendly and flirty before Jude had gone to sleep.

Jude remembered he had to file a copy of the letter and walked to the table...only to find the letter missing. As Jude put two and two togther, he let out a shout of annoyance. Oh this could bite him later.

Mind you, he could always call Gary Seville if the ref didn't change his mind. There might be mourning for Kabitana Liakora instead if need be.

.


Formal Letter of Response
To: Cuation Manger: Jude Takerath
From: Mikele Imbikka; Tivali Ring Stadium Representative
Re: Memorial Armbands

Mr. Takerath, on behalf of the operating members of the Tivali Ring Stadium council, I share your sympathy on the loss of Manager Michael Strickland, However, it is only my duty to uphold the decisions made by the Baptism of Fire officiating commitee. I have been contacted by the commitee after inquiring about the ban of the armbands, and they have informed me that the final decision rests in the hands of referee Liakora of Turori. I have forwarded your letter to him, and hopefully he will respond shortly, though he has given no indications as of yet that he plans to make any changes to his previous decisions. I am sure, that whatever reasons Mr. Liakora has for issuing this ruling, they are in the best interest of the game.


Thank You,

Mikele Imbikka

General Manager, Edgar Moroni, paced the floor in his hotel suite. Something in the decree Kabitana Liakora just did not seem to make sense. Both teams in the finals had worn the black armbands in membrance of Michael Strickland without any issues from it being raised thus far. In fact, this act of respect had seemed to been met very well by everyone involved to this point.

Immediately upon recieving the decree, Moroni had dispatched his senior intern, Lacey Harrison, to meet with Tivali Ring Officials. As of now, he was still awaiting her return.
*********************************************************

In another room of the hotel, several players had met to discuss things. Few of them had really whether or not they wore the armbands before the decree had been handed out. However, with the ban of the armbands for obscure reasons, the team had become solidified in wishing to show their support. They had been discussing options on the matter for about half an hour when Evan Evans had a brilliant idea. "Hey guys, this is what we should do." Hushed words passed back and forth with for a few minutes, with all present concluding that the idea was a good one. "Now I will go approach the Cuation players with this."
**********************************************************

Evan Evans sat in the room, looking across the table at the Cuation Goalkeeper, Gary Jens. Later they would meet as combatants on the field, but now they met as friends. "You and I both know how the politics behind things works. Chances are that the officials will not reconsider and allow us to wear the armbands. This is what I propose: Both of our teams should wear the initials 'MS' in face paint on either cheek. We need to be unified in this. The ban on the armbands only deems it neccessary to follow through with what we have been doing to remember him by other means. Will you talk with your teammates on this, and let me know your decision?"

Jude banged his head against the wall of his room at the unhelpful reply but at least he knew who to blame and that the ref would know of his teams objection. A brainwave hit and Jude phoned his assistant Igor "Get the team into the resturant in five minutes. This is about the armbands, should only take a few minutes of their time for once."

As he heard the old man chase around the hotel, Jude went to print copies of both letters.

xxxxxxxxx

Igor found Gary Jens with Evan Evans and chuckled good naturdly "Gary, dinning room now! Something about the armbands we have been wearing and that stupid ban. Evan, could you stay in the building? We might need you after the meeting."

As Igor left, the tanned goalie Gary smiled "I'm sure the team will agree, be right back mate." Gary raced out of the door to avoid being late

xxxxxxxx

The team had been left confused by the ban and angered that anyone but their own goverment would impose such unfair rules. Some of the dumber ones had been confused throughout but after a simple "Vittan's rob us of Freedom!" explinations, the anger flowed throughout.

Jude and Gary where the last two to enter, with Jade Manalinth being shunned by the team, she was kept out of the room. Jude explained the situation, handing out copies of the two letters, before Gary told the team of the Sea Dragon's idea. For varoius reasons, the Cuation players where glad to agree. Good feeling towards the other finalist was growing.

xxxxxxxxxx

Gary beamed as he met Evans again and gave him copies of the letters. "Seems the boss has been complaining to the powers that be to little sucess but you guys might be able to make use of this. As to your idea, we will be delighted to paint our cheeks for such a cuase. Be quite a plesant suprise for both sides fans ya? Was there anything else or shall I just say, I'm looking forward to the final and testing my skills against you?"

Evan Evans grinned broadly. "I believe that we will shock more than just our fans! I know my teammates will be happy to hear that you guys agree to this. More than one way to skin a cat. haha. I had better get back and tell the others. I look forward to the chance to score on ya "mate"."
********************************************************
As the team met in the hotel conference room, Coach D'Champaign paced back and forth, still rather agitated. Lacey Harrison had yet to return with any news. Suddenly, Evan stomed through the door, handing his coach the copies of the letters he had been given. D'Champaign read silently for a moment. "Liakora of Turori is the reason for the ban on the armbands. Although it appears that he isn't willing to share his reasons. But I do have a few ideas of my own."

Evan stood before the team and told them of his meeting with the Cuation keeper. Cheers errupted as they heard of the agreement. "We shall meet our friends on the field for the final match. It will be a glorious time for us both!"
*********************************************************

Sometime later, several media agencies began to report of the decision to ban the armbands by Liakora of Turori by way of annonymous sources. It seemed the decision was to be met with as much dissention around the globe as the two teams felt in this matter.

Liakora found Strangled in Hotel room



Turorian referee Kabitana Liakora was found dead in his hotel room in Tivali, Vilita, just outside the capital city of Alikki-Corra. Local police are currently investigating the matter. An inside source has provided information that Likaora was found on the floor with a black armband wrapped tightly around his next, cutting off his circulation and causing him to suffocate to the point of death. It is currently unknown whether this was a suicide or if other circumstances were at play. The front door to Liakora's room was found to be unlocked, but shut when the first witness arrived.


No statement has yet been made by the Baptism of Fire organizing commitee on how these events will effect the final of the Baptism of Fire Cup, due to be officiated by Liakora at the nearby Tivali Ring Stadium.

Young Ref Kabitana Liakora Killed!

As the news filtered into the Cuation teams minds, there was a feeling of dismay and shock. Whatever the feelings about the armbands, nobody wanted death, espically not that of such a promosing referee. A statement from the team has been issued to the press

"The team are distruaght about such a horrfic murder of a fine young refree. We can only hope that his body be treated with respect and he be remembered as a refree of such potential. The team will coporate fully with the authorties over this matter and amongst such tragic cirumstances, does football really matter?"

xxxxxxxx

After the statment was released, the players went to train, to take their mind off the reality for a bit longer. The press was banned and Gary Seville told the players that he had no idea who had killed the refree. With their own side seemingly innocent, Jude wrote to the Vittian FA

Private letter

To the Baptism of Fire organizing commitee

The team is shocked at the recent news and we will do all that is asked. My own nation of Cuation will also help in any matter possible. We express our deep regrets for the death. We are also willing to look after the family of the desceased. Forgive my ramabaling but I am still in shock.

the seal of the Holy Emporer is at the end of the letter

Sea Dragons Mourn Another Death at BoF

Today the football world recieved a great shock as Kabitana Liakora was found strangled. The alleged weopon used for the murder was one of the very ones that he had come under criticism for banning in the BoF final match between Cuation and Andossa Se Mitrin Vega. Various rumors have begun to fly from everything between responsibility to the status of the finals.

"I can't believe that someone could do this!" proclaimed Edgar Moroni. "Sure everyone was upset, but that was to be expected. All we wanted was to remember Michael Strickland. Now there are two fine men that need remembering. This is a very, very sad day for the BoF, and the game of football. It will be a long time before this can be put behind us. It is a dark stain that will hover over all of us for a very long time."

Shaun Conarky and the rest of the ASMV team echoed the sentiments issued by the Cuation team. "We will do whatever is neccessary to help in this matter as well as to help give support to the victim's family. This is most definately not what we wanted when we began to protest the ban. When they find the SOB who did this, bring him to me for a while. That will save everyone some time and money. Whoever did this deserves the same fate!"

From: Hell
To: All other BoF nations

Although we're forbidden by divine regulations from killing any of you (which isn't to say we don't want you to die), we'd just like to state that there's plenty of room down here for one and all.

That's it. See you all in WC25. Cuation, your leader will get his personal meeting with Satan 25 minutes after the moment of his death.

From: Pastorville Soccer Association
To: Baptism of Fire Committee
Subj: Baptism of Fire Final

To whom it may concern:

You may wonder why we choose to write to you regarding a match in which we are not involved, and seem to have no rooting interest. Not knowing the deceased personally, none of us can say what the deceased would have wanted. That being said, we feel that in all fairness to both participants in the BoF final, that they should be declared co-champions, bringing to end a tournament marred by multiple deaths. We are not asking you to drop the result of the 3rd place match between our squad and An Archy, as that match had taken place before the tragedy that has befallen the BoF. We will stand behind you regardless of the decision you make, but we felt compelled to make our opinion on the matter known.

Sincerely,
Pastorville Soccer Association

From: Cuation
To: Hell
Subject: Your message

We thank you for your kind feelings to all of us and we where sorry that you guys where so unlucky in your 4-2 against us. However we would have to decline as we want to win this Bof, just take the killer of the ref.

Good luck in WC25 and Jude is delighted to hear of the chance to meet Satan but alas does not plan on dieing for a while

Sea Dragons Hopeful for Finals

The ASMV Sea Dragons await to see how the situation in Vilita resolves itself. Hope from the team is that the final match against there newfound friends, Cuation, will be played.

"We have worked very hard to get to this point - to have this chance. There are a lot of very extrinuating circumstances here at the moment. Trajedy has struck it seems too many times. But that does not change the fact that we, as well as the Cuation squad, deserve the chance to become sole champions of the BoF." stated Pablo Iglesias. "My only hope is that the BoF can be finished without any further trajedies to contend with."

Evan Evans had this to say - "I know that these time are tough for all involved to deal with. I can't say that I would blame the organizers if they declared this BoF over and done. But that wouldn't be fair to us, and it would not be fair to Gary and the boys from Cuation. I can assuredly say that neither team had a hand in this. What purpose would it serve?"

Vilitan Region - Knockout Stage Results

Baptism of Fire Cup: Final

Cuation [1]-[1] Andossa Se Mitrin Vega (FTS)
Cuation [2]-[1] Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

ASMV Falls Short in BoF Final

Today the Sea Dragons had their hopes of a perfect BoF crushed as they lost to Cuation in a hard fought battle. Regualtoin play ended with the teams tied 1-1 but superior play by the Cuation squad decided the match from that point. Celebrations are still planned upon the teams return home to praise the high level of play and sportsmanship they exhibited during the BoF.

"We gave it everything we had" said Pablo Iglesias. "We knew that it would be a very tough defensive match and that is what we got. I feel nothing right now except respect for our new Cuation friends, as they played very well to win this. I hope that our friendship will continue."

The only goal for the Sea Dragons came in the 22nd minute by Malachi James.

Cuation go to WC25 as Bof Winners

Gary Jens stands up with the ball, looking for options to relive the pressure. Only a minute to penalties

I watched the game from the touchline, to anxoius to sit in the dugout with the players and my staff. I was a hero for getting Cuation this far but the Sea Dragons looked the better, if only slightly, with a cutting edge attack. Thje defence had done well but where tiring and where lucky that Gary Jens was on form today. When called upon, Gary was there.

Now he had just taken the ball off his friend, Evan Evan's feet and his only options where the long ball, those close to him where too tightly marked

Gary boots the ball upfeild to Peter Tanner

My mind buzzed with who would take the spot kicks, I had three I could rely on but the rest might panic or do something stupid. Peter was not one who would score but how hard he worked throughout the Bof. Always chasing, finding others and winning headers, he had even scored.

knocked down to Giovanni Hatzori who dummies his way into space. Passes out wide to Timothy Ashton

It was weird to see my playmaker working so hard on the defence, pressuring those who had the ball. Despite tiring, I needed him for penalties and for his magic. Not his best game but he was still cuasing problems, scoring Cuation's only goal.

Timothy Ashton is in space. Oh heastes the chance with such a poor cross to nobody

I could hear the fans groan as Ashton's ball looked set to land outside the area with nobody in the box. Ashton had been marked out of the game and unable to help the attack, had got frustrated. When he got the ball, he wasted it.

Oh but Heskey Anderton is there, he has headed into the box...

My most underestimated player, he had scored a couple this Bof and was a hard worker, he did lack great qualties but his ability in the air made him invaluble. Today, he hadn't been booed so at least he was winning over the fans

Shaun Conarky and sub Rual Mendisez racing for the ball but Rual looks second best for this

Roy Ferguson had been my unlucky player that got pulled off but after such a sterling performance, he was tired. Rual had used his pace well but my top goalscorer had found Shaun to be as tough as Kahn of the Macabee's had been in Cuation's 3-1 defeat

Not only Shaun going o get the ball, but even if Rual got the ball first, the goalie had narrowed the angle down to perfection.

and...Rual has done it! 2-1 with seconds left, Cuation are champions! Rual got to it first and steered it home. The players are mobbing him, the fans out of their seats and the staff hugging each other in sheer delight

The bounce had gone kindly for us and unfair on the Sea Dragons but for that second, all we knew was we had won. Can you hate us for celebrating a victory as great for us as this? For those few seconds, we could forget the deaths, our defeated friends and any problems in the world. This is why football is the love of so many people around the world...

The end...

Joy was mixed with sadness, we had won and had fun but we mourned the deaths of Michael Strickland and Kabitana Liakora and knowing they won instead of good teams like the Macabee's, the Sea Dragons, Pastorville and the Anathematic Republics was part sad but happy emotions. They knew that any of those four would make an impression in the World Cup.

Match

Both teams came out onto the pitch in good humor, playing friends was always fun and throughout the match, banter was exchanged between players and fans of all sides. This may have been the most important match of everyones career but it seemed more like a kickabout in the mood.

With Cuation's succesful long ball tactics and the Sea Dragon's amount of fowards, despite defensive nature of the teams, it was never going to be a 0-0 game

The first man to score was Malachi James of the Sea Dragons, drilling home after a fine move. Cuation's only response in the first half was an Ashton shot that was well saved.

1-0 down at half time, the team was roused by Igor in the dressing room and came out in an attacking mode. Gary Jens and the defence did a wonderful job in keeping the score down while Shaun Conarky kept out everything thrown at him.

It took something speical to beat him, Giovanni Hatzori intercepting a stray pass and running into space. As he was closed down, he hit a curling effot that just beat the goalie to make it 1-1.

As both sides played good football for the rest of the game, it looked set for a penalty shoot out but then one magic moment came...

This is Kellan Kildan with an ASMV News network update.

The Presidential Palace in the Errion Vega, capital of ASMV, is abuzz tonight with great news. After their great run in the BoF, the Sea Dragons return home in two days to celebrate before the start of WC25. The entire city will be engulfed in the facilities, with numerous free concerts to be performed on the streets of the city. A fireworks display will occur at midnight. It is to be a new holliday for the citizens - unofficially called "BoF Day" at present.

There will also be festivities at the new Errion Stadium, where the team will sign autographs and sign pictures to be followed by a ball at the palce. In Other ne......What's this! New news just reported to us! Presidente Storm Vega himself has issued an official invite to the Cuation squad to join in the festivities! Holy Cow! What News! I assuredly hope they accept.

We will have more news as it happens.

Kellan Kildan, ASMV News Network

Jude sat in his room, reading the message from Presidente Storm Vega with delight. He didn't want his players to return home yet, the parties would affect the training, their ego's might rise and hopes would get too high. Besides Jude did not want to deal with the goverment just yet. This was too perfect, so after calling Igor, Jude wrote a reply to the President

xxxxx

Cuation team heads to Errion Stadium

Having won the Baptisim of Fire final against the Sea Dragons, the team was expected home to join in the celebrations. However in a suprise move, Warlord Jude has accepted Presidente Storm Vega's invitation. The team will celebrate with the Sea Dragons before heading to the WC25.

There was some dissent from bitter fans but it was crushed with due speed by the army. Long may such good football days continue!