Draggonni Inviyatii Pre WC Showcase (Invitation Only) [Archive]

Starblaydia

19-02-2006, 14:53

I Give My Opponent Permission
(and actively encourage them) To:
====================
Choose My Scorers
GodMod Any Goalscoring Events
Yellow Card Players
Red Card Francisco Ibanez for anything remotely aggressive and violent
GodMod Other Events for Humourous Intent
====================

Playing Style: Eda Positive (+1)

Starblaydia Face Qutar Again
Group Graii sparks historical investigation

An invitation to send a group of people to come and kick a football around a pitch for a while is always something nice to receive, so when Olaf Vikerman, Chairman of the Starblaydi Football Association and former Starblaydia player, received such an invitation from Andossa Se Mitrin Vega to compete in the inaugural Draggonnii Inviyatii for the Sea Dragon Trophy, he jumped at the chance to send a team.

Good practice and team-building before World Cup 27, of course. Plus we get to play our near-neighbours on the island just north-west of Starblaydia for the first time in their own back yard, after a somewhat shocking 2-0 defeat in the Group Stage of the 12th Atlantian Oceania Cup of Association Football.

Though not drawn with their Vegan hosts in Group Eda, Starblaydia's historians have got themselves into somewhat of a frenzy over Andossa Se Mitrin Vega's language. Vegan, it seems, appears somewhat similar to ancient languages spoken in ancient Starblaydi history. Witness the obvious similarities of the double-i cropping up in many places. More investigations will surely be done into this possible cultural link while Starblaydia are competing in the tournament.

Khim Azanulbizarn has picked his second squad for a tournament, picking an exciting and very young side. Of course the big names such as Menecrates and Cherry Garcia are in the sqaud, but they are there to bring experience to the proceedings, to guide youngsters along the way. Their first task will be to take some small piece of vengance for the Islands of Qutar's shocking 3-2 upset over Starblaydia on Matchday 1 of the World Cup 26 Finals Group Stage.

Staff
KA. Kim Azanulbizarn, Manager, 53

Goalkeepers
1. Nicholas Mathias, GK, 35 - Jhanna United
12. David Bedford, GK, 25 - Vecchio Victors
19. Julio I Kyrile, GK, 30 - KaMaRi kali Xentira (Rejistania 1st Division)

Defenders
2. Francisco Ibanez, RB, 27 - Lepus FC (Spruitland)
3. Markko Rakkinen, LB, 22 - Tabeck FC
5. Jaime Oberlander, Captain, L/CB, 29 - Hallad Reavers
6. Antonis Kouvas, CB, 25 - Kiiarana City (Vilitan Stellar)
13. Ulysses Zielinski, R/LB, 32 - Hallad Reavers
14. Alberto Belmozzi, CB/CF, 23 - Gateway Bay (Kaze Progressa)
20. Ricardo Almeida, RWB/RB, 23 - Kiiarana City (Vilitan Stellar)
22. Heider Stefansson, CB, 31 - Internashionale

Midfielders
4. Georges Blanc, CM, 27 - Floral FC (Bedistan)
7. Paul Noble, R/CM, 22 - Vecchio Victors
8. Jade Matranga, L/AM, 26 - Tabeck Lightning
11. Javi Chavez, LM, 24 - Corinthian Spirits
17. Cherry Garcia, RW, 29 - Jhanna City
18. Menecrates, A/R/L/C/M, 31 - Corinthian Spirits
21. Virgil Ernesto, DM, 30 - Hecia

Forwards
9. Roberto Vega, SC, 26 - Internashionale
10. Dasha Tolkacheva, SC, 23 - Hallad Globes
15. Raphaelo, SC, 29 - Iskara Daii
16. Thomas Nixon, SC, 25 - Talbott (Liverpool England)
23. Mercutio, SC, 31 - Point/Grunt AC (Cockbill Street)

The Formation
http://www.starblaydestudios.co.uk/Starblaydia/StarDI1.jpg

The Kits
http://www.starblaydestudios.co.uk/Images/ediraflogo.jpg
Home & Away
http://www.starblaydestudios.co.uk/Starblaydia/Kit1.jpghttp://www.starblaydestudios.co.uk/Starblaydia/Kit7.jpg

Wentland

19-02-2006, 15:50

It was almost as if Bluff was eager to cause controversy, as the announcement of the squad for the moistened lizard trophy contained a number of, er, interesting names.

"I am concerned we do not have strength in depth for a World Cup campaign," explained Bluff to interviewer Dickie Dinenage. "For the last Cup we used the same squad as for the Baptism of Fire for convenience's sake, and to avoid humiliation, but we can be a bit more experimental this time."

The squad itself was revealed to be the following:

1 Francis Derrington - goalie, 26, Royal Heath

2 Joe Okey - right back, 30, Warpstone (“Okey? How can you rely on him? He never turns up…” “He is fantastically skilled and his penalty record is impeccable…that might come in useful. The whole Tournament thing might bring out his more responsible side.”

When Okey was told he was in the squad, he shrugged his shoulders and went back to his jigsaw.)

3 Alec Harris – left-back, 26, Downham (“no Fletchers?” “I know what they can do…they’re in the squad…maybe we will see how they can do when playing alongside other team-mates”)

4 Blake Wright - centre-half, 24, Royal Heath (“the guy’s a psychopath!!!!” “Exactly.”)

5 Gus Jenkins - centre-half, 28, Gt Bellstead

6 John Capper – midfield, 34, Warpstone (“I think we could do with his experience and cool head, he’s one of the thinkers of the game, even if he is a bit weird”)

7 Will James - right wing, 27, Donington Wanderers

8 Francis Treves - centre-forward, 19, Alumgreen (“I’m amazed no-one’s picked him up yet…”)

9 Martin Smith – centre-forward, 24, Royal Heath (“with Morgan’s injury, I think it’s time for Tiny to step up to the plate”)

10 Joe Weston - midfield, 23, Royal Heath

11 Cosmo Kent - left-wing, 20, Warpstone (“I want to throw him in at the deep end…you never know; watch for his Swerving Dip Shot ™; plus with Devey also injured I don’t have much choice.”)

12 Ben Tewkesbury – goalie, 27, Donington

13 Ron Fletcher – right-back, 27, Donington

14 Don Fletcher - left back, 27, Donington Wanderers (“you’ve cut both of them?” “Ah, I’ve got to give other players a chance.”)

15 Bill Grosvenor – centre-half, 31, Warpstone

16 Steve Moon – centre-half, 17, Crowhurst (“Crowhurst have a great young team, time to give them a chance”)

17 Sam Barton – centre-midfield, 27, Gt Bellstead

18 Harry Ollis – centre-midfield, 27, Warpstone

19 Roy Ferris – right-wing, 26, Southfield (“I might use him a lot more in the tournament than last time, he was a bit overshadowed by James”)

20 Ken Davies – left-wing, 23, Warpstone

21 Ian Thwaites – centre-forward, 26, Warpstone

22 Hoppo Hopkins - centre-forward, 23, Royal Heath (“another psychopath!!!” “Yeah, but he is the hardest person I have ever seen. If anything breaks out he will sort it”)

23 Dennis Tracey – goalie, 17, Crowhurst

Bluff thought a while about his selection. The die was cast...will it set or blow up in his face?

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

19-02-2006, 16:11

With the first squad from ASMV having found some success in the CoH, ASMV has also decided to field its second tier squad in the Draggonnii Inviyatii. Coincidentally it is the same squad that beat Starblaydia in the AOCAF, though no one actually expects them to manage that feat again. The Sea Dragons will play in their normal 5-3-2 formation.

Anyone can RP anything they like.

Head Coach- Brittanie Imburg
Asst Head Coach - Genna Tortorelli
Offensive Asst - Tari Klatt
Defensive Asst - Nolan Sprenkal
Keeper Asst - Moisses Machi
Staff MD - Lucilla Macneal
Trainer - Tamara Patee
Media Manager - Hal Rosh
Event Coordinator - Darius Zupncic
Waterboy - Armand Summeral

Keepers:
4 - Jenna Jaffray
6 - Levinia Colding

Defenders:
54 - Fidel Berte
34 - Rob Hoeckman
20 - Marcel Maas
32 - Rod Trailing
21 - Beata Sjostrovic
40 - Briann Donchez
44 - Pura Goffinet
50 - Francine Boyar
41 - Hal Dubitsky

Midfielders:
22 - Kendrik Pu
18 - Bulah Monteroza
15 - Anika Milosavic
10 - Virgin Stiober
57 - Valena Arturo

Attackers:
5 - Broderick Wallenstein
00 - Ali Devincenti
9 - Kabe Tribby
39 - Elanore Griffazzi

With Sarzonia, NMS, and Ariddia all awaiting the chance to knock off the hosts, ASMV may well be looking at a consolation berth in their own tourney. But no one here minds that fact, Vegans are just excited at the prospect of seeing these squads in action up close.

ASMV has also announced it will be sending a team of linguists to work with those of Starblaydia in the research of what seems to be uncanny similarities in the languages of both nations. Perhaps there is a bit of forgotten history there somewhere.

Hypocria

19-02-2006, 16:43

It’s Tournament Time Again

It’s turning out to be a very busy time for Hypocria’s national side. First there was gruelling agony of the World Cup Qualifying games. That was followed by the regional AOCAF tournament and even as we speak a national squad is competing in the Cup of Harmony. But when that invitation arrived from our friends in Andossa Se Mitrin Vega the HFA were delighted to accept.

Over in Chicanada Hypocria’s finest came up short in trying to defend the nation’s AOCAF title. But every cloud has a silver lining and that early exit means we have a national squad already assembled, and now suitably rested, to compete for the inaugural Draggonnii Arce Tropia.

But with national coach Alex Santoro, who had been in charge of the AOCAF side, now in Schiavonia with the Cup of Harmony team finding someone to be in charge was a tricky task. Step forward Zvonimir Roeder. The former Hypocrium City manager was installed as the nation’s Director of Football Development several weeks ago and as such was given the task of finding a suitable candidate to take charge of the squad. Clearly the lure of a couple of weeks in sunny Andossa Se Mitrin Vega was hard to fight as he promptly appointed himself.

Hypocria Squad - Draggonnii Inviyatii

Head Coach - Zvonimir Roeder
One of the most successful domestic football coaches in Hypocrian history after leading Hypocrium City to five league titles. After a sabbatical from football Roeder was unveiled as the Autocracy’s Director of Football Development. Although no-one seems quite sure as to what that entails.

Starting 11

1. Alexei Lomaia (20, GK, 0 caps) - FC Almintora (Turori)

2. Ryan Steiner (24, DR, 2 caps) - Dynamo Rasium

3. Ricky Poskas (32, D/DML, 74 caps, 3 goals) - Hypocrium City

5. Victor Gredenko (25, DRC, 6 caps) - Pylos Reavers

6. Sergey Kreska (31, DC, 48 caps, 6 goals) - Partizan Drissa

4. Marcus Baxter (31, DMC, 103 caps, 9 goals) - Sukatra Tigers (Bettia)

7. Hernan Ferron (21, MR, 6 caps, 1 goal) - Pylos Reavers

8. Brian Beck (26, DMC, 6 caps) - Pylos Reavers

10. Alex Rytter (27, AMC, 45 caps, 6 goals) - Turoki Isle (Vilita)

11. Robert Bercali (26, AML, 68 caps, 15 goals) - Yeaddin Owls (Vilita)

9. Rafael Dudamel (23, SC, 0 caps) - Coral City Islanders

Reserves

12. Marius Black (29, DRC, 46 caps) - Partizan Drissa
13. Ricardo Kindelan (36, GK, 88 caps) - Pylos Reavers
14. James Eagles (24, SC, 3 caps, 1 goal) - Hypocrium City
15. David Venuto (35, DL, 14 caps) - Dynamo Rasium
16. Adrian Kane (18, MC, 0 caps) - Hypocrium City
17. Hugo Montoya (19, AML, 0 caps) - Coral City Islanders
18. Ashley Deucher (29, SC, 25 caps, 12 goals) - FC Hypocrium

It’s a strong squad that Roeder brings with him to Andossa Se Mitrin Vega. Players such as the captain Marcus Baxter and the Vilita based duo of Alex Rytter and Robert Bercali are regarded as the very best the nation has to offer. The selection did throw up a couple of surprises though. With long standing goalkeeper Ricardo Kindelan now well into veteran status talented youngster Lomaia gets an opportunity to show why many consider the natural successor to Kindelan. Rafael Dudamel is the other surprise inclusion. Dudamel only recently became a professional footballer when he signed for the Coral City Islanders towards the end of last season. But the coach knows him from when he was in charge of the national futsal side, for which Dudamel starred. “A diamond in the rough” was how Roeder described his new striker. The nation is not so convinced.

Style

-1

Formation

Dudamel

Bercali Ferron

Baxter Rytter Beck

Poskas Steiner
Kreska Gredenko

Lomaia

Kit
(Supplied by Ediraf)

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a359/Hypocria/HypocHome26_.pnghttp://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a359/Hypocria/HypocAway26.png

And . . .

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Anything you like. Just no killing m'kay?

Ariddia

19-02-2006, 19:13

After an encouragingly good performance in the Cup of Harmony, the Ariddians are reportedly eager to take part in the new tournament. Unveiling the roster, which held four as-yet unknown names, the Ariddian Football Association revealed that these were the twenty-three players who would most likely be competing in the next World Cup. While Awad al Maharmeh (#22), Eot Ja (#20), Aush Song (#7) and Hanifah Kyaw (#3) are not listed as part of the usual starting eleven, this pre-World Cup competition will hopefully give them valuable experience in terms of international football.

"True," Kyaw said in her first interview with the press. "But we're not really going to be thinking about the World Cup much for now. We'll be focusing on the Drago... the Draggonnii Inyi... the Draggonnii Inviyatii. And I for one am thrilled that we'll be playing against the hosts."

At just sixteen years of age, the entusiastic-looking young woman already holds a record as the youngest person ever to join the national team. And it will be one hell of a start to her career.

"Sarzonia, New Montreal States, and Andossa Se Mitrin Vega. We've never played against any of them, though we can hardly say we don't know them," Frédéric Clément said. "If we can beat two of them, we'll be very, very happy."

Ariddia has been drawn in Group Eda, and the AFA is reportedly looking for a French-Vegan, English-Vegan or Wymgani-Vegan dictionary, to find out exactly what "Eda" means.

"Perhaps it's a place," Clément said. "We'd just be curious to know. It's been bothering us, you see."

Ariddia's squad will be as follows:

GK: Sandrine Leduc (1)
DEF: Yves al Jahdali (9); Tim Wald (14); Jean Kitenge (11)
MID: Ue Alt (cpt; 12); Michael Swimmer (21); Ta I (17); André Delherbe (15)
ATT: Frédéric Clément (8); Ismail Faraj (10); Clémentine Ramirez (2)

Substitutes:
GK: Ludovic Hue (4); Awad al Maharmeh (22)
DEF: Anan Bounthaiyavong (16); Peter Roberts (13); James Fields (5); Eot Ja (20); Aush Song (7)
MID: John Sanjeeb (19); Wol Eosh (6); Cyril Lange (18)
ATT: Ul U (23); Hanifah Kyaw (3)

OOC:
Ariddia will be playing its usual +2 style, if applicable, and will of course continue to perform the ulek at the start of each match. More information on the team can be found here (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Ariddia%27s_football_team).

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

19-02-2006, 20:18

As the Vegan language has now come into the spotlight, we feel the need to give those nations traveling to ASMV a bit of insight into it. That way they do not feel Completely lost.

Andossa - city
Se - of(the)
Mitrin - Mother
Vegan - Star
Draggonnii - Dragon
Inviyatii - Invitation
Arcea - Sea
Tropia - Trophy
Stadii - Stadium
match - jaruon
goal - lusai
Forward - fanda
Midfielder - Kri(mid) Praez (field)
Defender - Feldekken
Keeper - No'u
Beer - Svei

the groups are far less meaningless than one would imagine. We did use the word "group" to lessen confusion.

Arebalo - group
eda - one
graii - two
takina - three
qual - four
luus - five
zik - six

And hopefully no one will need to count higher than that for this tourney.

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

19-02-2006, 20:21

And yes. Style modifiers from +2 to -2 will be in use. Anyone not specifying such will be deemed to be at 0.

New Montreal States

19-02-2006, 21:08

PALADINS GEARED FOR ACTION IN ASMV

Branstone announces squad for pre-WC tourney

ERION VEGA STADIUM, ASMV - The Ministry of Morale and coach William Branstone have announced the side for the Draggonni Invivatii invitational football tournament. The Paladins have been drawn in a group with world power Sarzonia, hosts Andossa Se Mire Vega and fellow French Canadians Arridia.

"This could be the toughest group in the tournament from our point of view," said Branstone. "The Stars might be going through a period of introspection after that upset loss to HC, but they're still a world power, and should be through without too much trouble. ASMV is very problematic for us, as they will have a home field advantage that will be very difficult for us to overcome, especially playing them in the first match. And Arridia is a power with a tradition that we can't hope to hold a candle to. So this should be a good challenge for us going in to the cup."

The Ministry has decided to put up a team of freshmen and sophmores from various schools across NMS that are early favorites to qualify to play in WC27 qualifiers (assuming NMS loses their hosting bid) and would compose an excellent national team if NMS does win and gets a free pass to the Cup. The team, coached by William Branstone, will employ the usual 2-6-2.

(starters in bold, +1 style modifier)

GK 11 Paul Chasson, Ecole Secondaire Clairemont, Clairemont
GK 43 Ted Bates, Medlerville High, Medlerville

D 2 Yannic Laurier, Valdemont St-Anne, Valdemont
D 17 Pierre St-Simard, Patriarch's Academy, New Montreal
D 4 Kyle Smith, St. James Hardee, St. James
D 90 Antoine Gouin, Lacroix Communité, Lacroix

MF 6 Charles Pilon, Ville-Marie St-Jean-Baptiste, Ville-Marie
MF 10 Andy Gordon, Frog's Academy, New Montreal
MF 15 Jesse Miller, Moncton Sands Northwest, Moncton Sands
MF 40 Jacques Toussaint, Ecole Secondaire Beauregard, Beauregard
MF 41 Phillip Yates, Academie Hugenot St-Vailler, St-Vailler
MF 55 Paul Chan, Laval Senechal, Laval
MF 9 Edgar Forks, Sherbrooke Sud-Est, Sherbrooke
MF 20 Harold Fresh, Academie St-Jacques, Sherbrooke
MF 21 Duncan Fielder, Coastal City HS, Coastal City
MF 31 Jean Lecoeur, Repentigny Le Gardeur, Repentigny
MF 39 Marc Tessier, Hull Lecote, Hull
MF 98 Rejean Letourner, Academie Centrale, Laval

F 1 Gilles Villeneuve, New Montreal Ile-St-Helene, New Montreal
F 99 Hubert Labranche, Polyvalente Bresvard, Bresvard
F 20 Zachary Smith, Ecole Secondaire Taschereau, Taschereau
F 90 William Sandsworth, Lane High, Lane

Ariddia

19-02-2006, 22:53

fellow French Canadians Arridia.

OOC:
French Canadians?! Hmpf! :p

[NS]Bazalonia

20-02-2006, 00:53

"At the Invitational" by Nev Gould

In some strange happenings it seems that the Bazalopes have been invited to ASMV for an international soccer invitiational tournament. Not only have have the Bazalopes been invited but the BFSA has accepted and the same team that appeared in the Baptism of Fire, World Cup and now Cup of Harmony will be in it.

The draw for this invitational has been announced and the Bazalopes will be in the same group "Arebalo Qual", meaning "Group 4", as Casari - a world power in soccer, Milchama - those people that slighted the Bazalopes in the Cup of Harmony and Cuation - who made comments about the coaches over-confidence which where actually backed by James Gaines.

For this tournament instead of relying on live broadcasts for my articles for once I will be able to got to ASMV and write my reports directly from there. I was going over the roster for the invitational the other day and there is a Style: +1 remark. My queries into BFSA to work out what this meansa have yet yeilded nothing and when I find out, you will too.

Sarzonia

20-02-2006, 04:06

Stars begin next chapter

It took a Presidential edit, but Dave Wilson is back to coach the Sarzonian national team after a portracted round of political infighting between the newly reconstituted Board of Governors and Wilson, who is currently performing double duties as Incorporated Football Federation Chairman and head football coach. President Mike Sarzo sent a direct warning to the IFF Board of Governors that he would disband the board if necessary.

Wilson's return even as the national team coach highlights a major dilemma for Sarzonia as the Stars face life without former head coach and Dave Wilson assistant Barry Owens. Wilson said he contacted Owens about the coaching job and the IFF presidency, but "he wasn't interested.

"I can't say I blame him," Wilson said. "After what happened here, I can definitely understand if he wants to get as far away from Sarzonia as he can. It's a shame, but that's the situation we find ourselves in here." Wilson said his efforts at instigating reform have led to the entire IFF board of governors resigning their posts. The board will be replaced by a board of advisors that will likely have less authority than the board of governors, but Wilson said his focus would be on improving the organisation "from the ground up."

"It's obvious that we've grown complacent here," Wilson said. "A second round exit is not acceptable for us. We've got to do better in all phases of our organisation, from developing young players to ensuring a Sarzonian identity and restoring some of our lost pride. We've also got to make sure that we're going to do things the right way as an organisation. That's my priority."

Wilson will be helped in his task by now-veteran assistant coach Brett Hancock, who made his name with a surprise run to the AOCAF XI finals appearance where he lost to a Wilson-coached Hypocria side. Wilson said Hancock will likely take over the Stars after he retires again or after he becomes IFF chairman full-time.

"Brett's the future of the Stars," Wilson said. "He's been instrumental in our success during the AOCAF tournament. He's going to have a bright future that will be even brighter when he gains the full reins." Wilson said Hancock has essentially run the team during AOCAF XII, except for delivering the halftime speech during the semfinals match against Starblaydia, which Hancock requested.

"Brett told me he wanted me to say something inspirational," Wilson said. "Because it was Brett who made the request, I agreed." The second choice Stars team defeated Starblaydia in AOCAF play for the first time, 3-2 after extra time.

This Stars team will be remarkable because of the absence of Sarzonia's all-time leading scorer Brian Wilson from the team. He and goalkeeper Horace Sandt announced their retirements from the team after the second round loss to Hockey Canada. The team playing in World Cup XXVII will likely have very few holdovers from World Cup XXVI, and Wilson announced that midfielder Jenna Raven would be named team captain, making her the first female player to earn that honour for Sarzonia. However, Dave Wilson downplayed the significance of the move.

"She's going to be the veteran on the team," he said. "It makes perfect sense."

Schiavonia

20-02-2006, 16:54

The Schiavone Scribe
ALL OFF TO ASMV

After a rather effective and eventful World Cup 26 campaign, the Schiavone Sloths are off to Andossa Se Mitrin Vega for a little kick around with a whole bunch of other teams.

The sloths made it to the finals of the cup, and even beat the ignoramuses of Liverpool England once they got there.

Of course, we can't take what goes on in ASMV as an indication as to how World Cup 27 will go. But it'll be a good indicator, as the sides they will be facing will all be in important phases in their preparation.

The Sloths will play two teams who, just like themselves, managed to overcome the odds and make it to the finals of World Cup 26. So Wentland and The Islands Of Qutar will be looking to push on in hte same way as our boys will.

Meanwhile, the other team Schiavonia will play in group play are World Cup 25 winners Starblaydia. However, in defending their championship, it didn't quite go to plan, losing out in the second round phase. A transitional period for them, as they prepare to get back to their best at World Cup 27.

Out of their three opponents, Schiavonia have played only Qutar, who beat them on penalties in the Baptism of Fire semi-finals. But we've all come a long way in the short space of time since then.

It should be good to see how it turns out.

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y2/NEWI/SFFsmall.png
SFF ANNOUNCE ASMV SQUAD

The SFF have announced their main squad of players for the coming World Cup Qualifying campaign.

Just two changes from the World Cup 26 squad have been made, and only very small adjustments made to the line-up too.

GOALIES
1. Ben Kershaw (Atletico Unimo [26] Caps:22)
2. Colin Kearns (Threlo Rangers [33] Caps:2)
3. Mark Percy (Kingsbury Monarchs [30] Caps:1)

DEFENDERS
11. Oliver Park (Threlo Rovers [24] Caps:22)
12. Gareth Marsden (Social Club de Sedgefield [23] Caps:22 Goals:2)
13. Marcus Pine (Kingsbury Monarchs [23] Caps:0)
14. Andy Payne (Threlo Rovers [31] Caps:6)
16. Arnold O'Kane (Kingsbury Monarchs [29] Caps:22 Goals:1)
17. Fernando Smith (Atletico Unimo [27] Caps:22 Goals:2)
18. Colin Peterson (Kingsbury Monarchs [29] Caps:2)
19. Fred Apple (Applethorst [28] Caps:2)

MIDFIELDERS
21. Kenny Sanderson (Kingsbury Monarchs [24] Caps:22 Goals:5)
22. Mike Jones (Kingsbury Rocks [35 (c)] Caps:22)
23. CJ Moore (Social Club de Sedgefield [32] Caps:11 Goals:1)
24. Paul Weir (Threlo Rovers [29] Caps:20 Goals:1)
26. Horatio Besenares (Atletico Unimo [21] Caps:5)
27. Calum Porse (Cartfield Athletic [22] Caps:5)

ATTACKERS
31. Filipo Schiavone (Social Club de Sedgefield [33] Caps:17 Goals:3)
32. Gary Topp (Threlo Rovers [31] Caps:19 Goals: 3)
33. Paolo Di Mascherenasi (Atletico Unimo [22] Caps:0)
34. Craig McAndrew (Mirksdove Rifles [25] Caps:18 Goals:4)
35. Kevin Kerry (Melston Rovers [30] Caps:6)
36. Tony Tarmey (Welkay Lakeside [23] Caps:22 Goals:12)

Our first choice line-up is as follows...

1. Kershaw

16. O'Kane 11. Park 12. Marsden 17. Smith

21. Sanderson 23. Moore 24. Weir

32. Topp 34. McAndrew 36. Tarmey

However, there are two alternative formations that are sometimes used. One is the traditional 4-4-2...

1. Kershaw

16. O'Kane 11. Park 12. Marsden 17. Smith

26. Besenares 21. Sanderson 24. Weir 27. Porse

34. McAndrew 36. Tarmey

...the other, a less traditional variation on the same formation, a 2-4-2-2.

1. Kershaw

11. Park 12. Marsden

16. O'Kane 22. Jones 23. Moore 17. Smith

21. Sanderson 24. Weir

32. Topp 36. Tarmey

The SFF have a deal with Starblaydi company Eridaf for the teams kits for two World Cups from WC26. Here's their rather splendiferous offerings this time around.

http://www.starblaydestudios.co.uk/Images/SchiavoniaHome26.pnghttp://www.starblaydestudios.co.uk/Images/SchiavoniaAway26.png

If there's style modifiers involved, Schiavonia will play with +1 thanks.

Sarzonia

20-02-2006, 17:38

Style Modifier: 0

My opponent, if they RP first, have permission to:
====================
Choose Scorers: Y
GodMod Goalscoring Events: N

Injure Players: N
GodMod Injury Events N

Red Card Players: N
Yellow Card Players: N
GodMod Other Events: N
====================

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/msarzo/SarzoniaHome.jpg
Home kit
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/msarzo/SarzoniaAway.jpg
Away kit

Coach: Dave Wilson (63 years old)
Assistant Coach: Brett Hancock (40)

Goalkeepers
39 Harvey Cooley, 28 (Saugerties Snakes) 5'11, 180 pounds
1 Marty Tolliver, 25 (Portland Timbers) 6'3", 190 pounds

Defenders
12 Kenny Houlder, 22 (Rochester Raiders) 5'10, 170 pounds
7 Ettore Salivani, 31 (New Jerusalem Nobles), 6'0, 178 pounds.
2 George Conway, 29 (Woodstock Wild) 6'0, 185 pounds
3 Brad Linskey, 20 (Nicksia Knights) 6'1, 190 pounds
14 Lane Edwards, 23 (Portsmouth Pirates), 6'2, 180 pounds
15 Kent Spencer, 19 (Woodstock Wild), 5'11, 170 pounds

Midfielders
8 Kendall Jones, 24 (Joe Gibbs University) 6'1, 195 pounds
10 Roger Alvarez, 23 (Saugerties Snakes) 5'9, 155 pounds
14 Jenna Raven Team captain, (Woodstock Justice, women’s team): 5'7", 140 pounds
12 Joseph Simms, 25 (Portland Timbers), 5'11, 160 pounds
13 Ken Lewis, 26 (Syosset State College), 6'0, 175 pounds
17 Ryan Palmer, 23 (New Jerusalem), 5'8, 145 pounds

Forwards
19 Kenny Cooper (Tacoma), 29, 5'9, 155 pounds
20 Kevin Wilson, 27 (Woodstock), 5'11, 170 pounds
16 Brian Williams, 21 (Partisan Drissa, Hypocria) 6'3, 195 pounds
30 Kyle Mason, 27 (Portland), 5'11, 185 pounds

Wentland

20-02-2006, 22:00

The Sentinel newspaper carried an in-depth interview with FA chairman Sir Charles Charles as to his comments on the opposition in the Sea Dragon Trophy.

SN: Wentland is in Group Graii, facing Starblaydia, Schiavonia and The Islands of Qutar.

CC: Grey what?

SN: Group Graii. What do you know about the opposition?

CC: Who are they?

SN: Starblaydia, Schiavonia and Qutar.

CC: Oh, I hope you recover.

SN: Eh?

CC: Catarrh.

SN: Let's move on. What do you think of Starblaydia?

CC: Ooh, er, um. They have, er, a nice kit. Is that the one with the spangles on? Or am I thinking of Jamie and the Magic Torch?

SN: Err...how about Schiavonia?

CC: Well, that's easy for you to say. Shall I plump your cushions for you?

SN: And Qutar?

CC: Have a lozenge.

SN: How about the way we will approach this?

CC: Well, that's a matter for the manager. I did hear him talk about a "plus one modifier, that'll sort 'em out", but I have no idea what that means. I prefer the old leather balls meself.

SN: And how do you think the opposition will treat your team?

CC: They may do as they see fit, so long as they do not kill anyone, heh heh heh.

The Sentinel editorial was not entirely convinced that the Wentland FA knew how to approach this particular tournament. However, being in Group Graii may mean that the change kit proves a good omen. The Swifts will be in their now-traditional blue shirts with white V and white shorts, except where there is a clash and they'll have the same design in grey and red.

Starblaydia

20-02-2006, 22:22

http://www.starblaydestudios.co.uk/Images/ediraflogo.jpg
Ediraf Designs Praised By Wentland FA

Wentland Football Association Chairman Sir Charles Charles' first comment on the Starblaydia national football team was of the high quality of their kits. Charles' said they were 'nice', showing that the kits are something which comes to mind before even Starblaydia's World Cup Triumph, joint-record number of AOCAF titles, sterling Under-21 programme or even their former striking star being World Cup Committee President.

All this points to Ediraf's renewed reputation for fantastic, well-designed styles that allow national and club teams around the world to look great on the pitch, aiming to have their play to be as exciting and pleasing as their uniforms. Bedistan, Fmjphoenix, Hypocria, Kaze Progressa, Legalese, Liverpool England, Schiavonia, Spaam, Starblaydia and System Karela are all part of the Ediraf stable. Could Wentland be the next team to add to their list? If Sir Charles is anything to do with it, that answer may certainly be 'yes'. Nice.

Tadjikistan

20-02-2006, 23:11

Invited to a party
By Simon Grinchik, part time sportsjournalist

Their participation in World Cup 26 was only mediocre, reaching only the round of 16 with a team that is probably one of the best in the history of Tadjikistan. Yet all players were prepared to go to Andossa Se Mitrin Vega, a nation most had barely even heard of, to play an invitational tournament. Even Rezvon and Bahrom Sadirov, the two brothers who coached the national team on World Cup 26 were willing to go, seeing in it the opportunity to introduce their successor to his squad and the world he will have to beat.

Some players were no longer available and the Sadirov brothers had to go with a mix of young and old players. Among the old players we see Salenko, Pliiev and Gurchev, important tools for any Tadjik coach to build a team around. Young new players include Polozkov, Tulberdiev and Sakhno, talented but still a bit unexperienced. For them this is important training.

The assistent coach and man who will become head coach after this tournament is Khumdin Sharipov, former coach of SKA Pamir Dushanbe and FK Khujand. He is skilled enough to manage and train any domestic team and soon the Tadjik national team.

As a way to baptise him, The Sadirov brothers asked Mr Sharipov to tell me what he knows of his opponents on this tournament. And although it taught us nothing of his skills as a coach, it was still interesting
-The Archregimancy: I dont know how they did on World Cup 26, honestly, I only checked the performance of our own team. I do remember that they are very religious and dont like most other religions and atheists. Well, they can start hating us, we're atheist.
-Hypocria: I know they didnt qualify for the World Cup ... and that one Tadjik coach wanted to lead their team until they hired a Sarzonian coach. Well, look at where it brought them, maybe they should have gone with the Tadjik.
-The Kazoo Peoples: Lots of draws during the qualifications, and no points from three World Cup matches, against good teams. Not much to say, They probably deserve better.

http://users.pandora.be/bdc/Tadj/TNFF.gif
Tadjikistan Tigers

Starters
1. D Gurchev(36) GK Vaksh Qorgontheppa
2. S Andreev(21) D Poisk Dushanbe
3. P Skoropadski(26) D SKA Pamir Dushanbe
4. V Ashurov(24) D SKA Pamir Dushanbe
5. L Kornilov(30) M Vaksh Qorgontheppa
6. M Pliiev(31)c M Regar-TadAZ Tursunzade
7. Y Mirdan(32) M Regar-TadAZ Tursunzade
8. V Sakhno(20) M SKA Pamir Dushanbe
9. S Saradov(26) F Vaksh Qorgontheppa
10.Z Tulberdiev(20) F Farrukh Gissar
11.O Salenko(32) F Regar-TadAZ Tursunzade

Substitutes
12.P Suchomlinov(26) GK Anicon Tursunzade
13.P Kuthakov(23) D SKA Pamir Dushanbe
14.G Polozkov(22) D FK Khujand
15.S Krivoshein(32) M Farrukh Gissar
16.A Kuropatkin(27) M FK Khujand
17.D Pogodin(25) M Regar-TadAZ Tursunzade
18.D Priore(27) F Regar-TadAZ Tursunzade
19.Z Zyrianov(19) F Vaksh Qorgontheppa
20.P Zverev(20) M Vaksh Qorgontheppa
21.V Petlyura(27) D SKA Pamir Dushanbe
22.S Liashkin(30) GK Regar-TadAz Tursunzade

Style Modifier is 0
Tadjik Kits(by JMC):
http://users.pandora.be/bdc/Tadj/TDJ.png

****************************************
When you RP first, you can do what you want, as long as its fair and fun
******************************************

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

21-02-2006, 01:47

OOC - MD1 of the Draggonnii Inviyatii will be posted around 10pm (CST US) Tuesday night. This allows just over 24 hours for everyone to get their rosters in. I will send Tgs to those who have not posted tonight. Thanks

Cuation

21-02-2006, 15:26

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

Team will play a -1 style please

Staff

Jude Takerath-21-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-51-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-44-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-29-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-39-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-24-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-25-GK. Games: 16(0) Goals: 1 Conceded: 17
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: 19(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-29-RB Games: 19(0) Goals: 1
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-34-CB and captain Games: 19(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 26-CB: Games: 19(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-36-DM: Games: 18(0) Goals: 2
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

This will be his last year. The team will miss him

Heskey Anderton-26-LM: Games: 17(0) Goals: 5
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-28-RM: Games: 18(0) Goals: 7
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

Cuation's top scorer in Cup of Harmony with 2.

Roy Ferguson-31-CM: Games: 16(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-28-playmaker: Games: 18(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-31-striker: Games: 18(0) Goals: 4
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-36-GK: Games: 2(4) Goals: 0 Conceded: 3
average goalie and reliable but doesn't reassure back line. Winning over his critics

Jamie Hargreves-28-Def/Mid: Games: 2(4) Goals: 0
plays anywhere in defence or in midfield but is pretty average. Good as fresh legs but that is about it

Rio Samba-28-CB: Games: 2(8) Goals: 1
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

Steven Milnar-23-Winger: Games 0(3) Goals: 1
Has progressed up the Cuation league as a promising talent but has never quite fuffiled it. A winger who looks to sneak into the box and score, he is also pretty good when he stays wide. Replaces the retired Stanely Edwards

Rual Mendisez-19-striker: Games:2(10) Goals: 5
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

Kit:
http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c58/Krytenia/CUA.png

Starblaydia

21-02-2006, 18:58

Vega: 'Feels Like Home'
Starblaydi striker enjoying life in ASMV

Number Nine for this Draggonni Inviyatii tournament, a World Cup 25 Winner named Roberto Vega feels like he's discovering his roots for the first time. He was just ninteen at the time, a squad player who made three appearances in the campagin and scored just one goal, against Lethislavania in the Qualifiers, the winner in a 4-3 scoreline.

"Andossa Se Mitrin Vega just gives me the feel of belonging," he told us, "it just feels like home. The sights, the smells, it fits." As well as the simple similarity in his surname and the name of the tournament's hosts - 'Vega' means 'Star' in Vegan - similarities in other surnames are common. Tortoreli, Machi, Donchez, Monteroza, Arturo, Devincenti and Griffazzi could well be the starting line-up of the Vecchio Victors. Starblaydia's Victoria province, to the north-west of the nation, seems to share most similarity with ASMV.

"Having my surname mean 'Star' is very cool," Roberto added, "makes me wonder what sword or blade would be in Vegan to see what 'Starblaydia' translates to. Julio [Kyrile, a goalkeeper playing in Rejistania] often tells us that Starblaydia is translated into Rejistanian as 'vaxiriva-ethana' [which translates to 'Star-to-split-in-two']. So I wonder what it'd sound like in Vegan. Something cool, no doubt."

Milchama

21-02-2006, 21:50

Alexandria Times-Tribune-Globe-Post-Gazette-Chronicle-Journal-Enquirer

Sports Section

Milchama's Roster ridicoulously similar to CoH roster

The Milchama Roster was announced for the Draggoni Invitational and it is the exact same roster as the CoH roster that the Warriors co hosted. Coach Jamie Smith said, "We did quite well in the CoH and pretty poorly in AOCAF with nobody really establishing themselves to be real internationals. With that being the case I felt that having the exact same squad as a prep for WC 27 was a good thing considering I plan on playing all these people in that team anyway."

All AOCAF information was from the AOCAF that Bettia hosted.

GK: Clay Finton- AOCAF Starter. His great play in the AOCAF (two shutouts) knocked Marcos Ollins off the squad.
D: Silas Milckey- The rock at the back for the last two cups was put on the bench by the new coaching regime. Believes starters job was his and wants to get it back.
D: Kendric Pevington- Not flashy but a very good central defender. Does not have the speed to play wing back so is in the center again.
D: Mills Thompson- Tall and good in the air. His headers will help on both offense and defense.
M: Elana Kilinin- The breakout star of the last WC squad. She will again be relied upon to get a spark in the offense. Some good play and she might stick as a player.
M:Antoine Sanchez- AOCAF Starter. Great dribbler, good passer a perfect central midfielder. Put in the squad to try to connect the strikers with the defenders.
Marian Flinters- Very fast and a good shooter. Will be a major part of the offense. His wing play with Kilinin will be key for the Milchmian offense.
Funston Copperlee (captain)- Best soccer player Milchama has ever produced so far. Will be expected to do everything. Had a dissapointing CoH and wants to show that he deserves to be captain.
F: Spot Nielson- With Thibault's more counter attacking approach to the 3-3-4 he wanted someone who was real good on the ball in central attack. Nielson fit the bill perfectly and is a starter because of it.
Marc J. Floren- Best Goalscorer in Milchamian history. All time leading goalscorer in MFL history and the leading goalscorer in both World Cup qualifying and the CoH for the Warriors. Will probably be his last world cup campaign and wants to go out actually getting to the main event.
F: J.J. Faren- A great crosser and a good goalscorer. Had a dissapointing WC campaign last time around but has proven himself to be a good player with his dazzling crosses.

Subs:
F: Floren Albentine- AOCAF starter. Great natural scorer. Called by many in Milchama the next Floren. Has a very bright future ahead of him. This cup's version of Spot Nielson, on the squad mostly for experience.
M: Johnny Rintell- Knocked out of starting lineup by new coaching staff. Wants to get his starting place back.
F: Matt Bantin- Another starter pushed to the bench because of the new coaching regime. Thinks he might be better than Floren if he got the chance and wants to show the world that he is.
M/F: Bobby Martin- His good play in the AOCL caused him to be the only sub called back from last cup. Wants to outperform teammate Clyde Misterson.
GK: Tuck Koolerc- Still the best goalie in Milchama but has been challenged by Clay Finton and wants to prove that he is still the best.
D: Kyoga Marcazumi- AOCAF starter. Normally a central defender but because of his mobility was moved to wing back for the WC. Then his poor play got him shifted to the bench, wants to regain his starter's spot. Plays for Great Alexandria.

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

21-02-2006, 21:59

OOC - I am going to post this just a little sooner that I said i would.

Draggonni Inviyatii MD1 Results

Carrington Championship Arena(Carrington)
Sarzonia 3-3 Ariddia

Errion Vega Stadii(Errion Vega)
NMS 2-1 ASMV

Group Eda
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1. NMS 1 1 0 0 2 1 +1 3
2. Sarzonia 1 0 1 0 3 3 0 1
2. Ariddia 1 0 1 0 3 3 0 1
4. ASMV 1 0 0 1 1 2 -1 0

Voque Stadii(Voque)
Starblaydia 6-0 Qutar

Arcea Pana Arena(Isla De Marte)
Sciavonia 2-0 Wentland

Group Graii
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1. Starblaydia 1 1 0 0 6 0 +6 3
2. Schiavonia 1 1 0 0 2 0 +2 3
3. Wentland 1 0 0 1 0 2 -2 0
4. Qutar 1 0 0 1 0 6 -6 0

Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse(Meldenburg)
Tadjikistan 0-1 The Kazoo Peoples

Yumbo Jumbo Sports Complex(Radiance)
The Archregimancy 2-1 Hypocria

Group Takina
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1. The Archregimancy 1 1 0 0 2 1 +1 3
1. The Kazoo Peoples 1 1 0 0 1 0 +1 3
3. Hypocria 1 0 0 1 1 2 -1 0
3. Tadjikistan 1 0 0 1 0 1 -1 0

Tapia Reis Civic Field(Tapia Reis)
Casari 5-0 Bazalonia

Inferii Domei(Tua Monafu)
Milchama 2-2 Cuation

Group Qual
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1. Casari 1 1 0 0 5 0 +5 3
2. Milchama 1 0 1 0 2 2 0 1
2. Cuation 1 0 1 0 2 2 0 1
4. Bazalonia 1 0 0 1 0 5 -5 0

MD2 Scedule:

ASMV vs Sarzonia - Yumbo Jumbo Sports Complex
Ariddia vs NMS - Arcea Pana Arena

Wentland vs Starblaydia - Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse
Qutar vs Schiavonia - Tapia Reis Civic Field

Hypocria vs Tadjikistan - Errion Vega Stadii
The Kazoo Peoples vs The Archregimancy - Inferii Domei

Cuation vs Casari - Carrington Championship Arena
Bazalonia vs Milchama - Voque Stadii

Starblaydia

21-02-2006, 23:29

Six of the Best = Revenge?
Starblaydia net 6 for first time in 40 years

This enormous win in Andossa Se Mitrin Vega equalled Starblaydia's record for their biggest-ever win, one set some 39 years ago. All the way back to Matchday 1 of World Cup 17's Qualifiers for Kaze Progressa and Vilita. Back then the scoreline looked like this:

Final Score from Tabeck Arena:
Starblaydia 6 - 0 Pure Evil
(S. Di Bradini (2), Salisbury, Hall, Stark, R Di Bradini) - (None)

So, for a rather long time, this has remained etched in history. The current World Cup Committee President with two goals, a deceased Right-Back, the Hallad Reavers Manager and the President's little brother hitting the six for Starblaydia against whoever the hell Pure Evil were.

Fast forward thirty-nine years and Starblaydia travelled north over the Nemyan Straights to Andossa Se Mitrin Vega for their inaugural tournament. Facing Baptism of Fire Champions the Islands of Qutar, who had previously defeated Starblaydia in the last World Cup's Group Stages. With a starting eleven that had ten changes from their previous match, it was a whole different ball game to that from three years ago. And boy, oh boy, was this different.

Noteable riot-starter 'Cisco Ibanez got the party started soon after the kick-off, racing onto Paul Noble's excellent 60-yard crossfield ball to dance around the defence and slot past the 'keeper. Dasha Tolkacheva linked up well with Jade Matranga, showing Quatar a little bit of 'girl power' (did I just write that?) as Jade played Dash through the middle for her to chip past the keeper and in off the inside of the post. Dash was at it again as she dived head first onto another great cross from Noble to power home the ball with a bullet header. And that was just after thirty minutes.

Before the half time break, Roberto Vega missed out on his goal but Starblaydia were rewarded with a corner, from which centre-back Antonis Kouvas powered home the ball for his third career goal and Starblaydia's fourth of the half.

Coming out for the second half, Quater's already-disheartened players saw perhaps the last thing they needed: one of the best players in the world*. Starblaydia's captain for the World Cup 26, a Winner of the previous cup, having scored in the Final. Menecrates, the one and only. His influence on the Starblaydi fans, watching media and the team itself was instant, creating chance after chance with flowing, creative, wonderful smile-inducing football.

So much so, in fact, that he joined in the history-making with the fifth goal, curling in one from long range. The Starblaydi fans began to chant 'we want six', and they were rewarded with the arrival on the pitch of Cherry Garcia, replacing Paul Noble. The chants then turned to 'we want sex', but we'll have none of that. With Starblaydia having a grand total of three women on the pitch - more than they've ever had before - a new mini-record was set before Garcia equalled a national record.

Picking up the ball just inside her own half, Cherry darted past two players, played a lovely one-two pass with Jade Matranga and then toe-poked the ball past the Qutar 'keeper for the sixth. Starblaydia off to a flyer and obviously looking to add another trophy to their cabinet.

Final score from Voque Stadii:
Starblaydia 6 - 0 The Islands of Qutar
(Ibanez, Tolkacheva (2), Kouvas, Menecrates, Garcia) - (None)

* OOC: I'm equating Menecrates to an NS version of Ronaldinho so, yeah, he is actually that good. Won a World Cup and all that.

New Montreal States

22-02-2006, 00:26

PALADINS PULL OUT SQUEAKER OVER HOSTS

2-1 win over Sea Dragons good start to Inviyatii

ERION VEGA STADIUM - Opening a tournament at home against the hosts in their nation's largest stadium, with a team assembled from across a nation that communicates in two languages? No problem.

"Frankly, the crowd thing isn't as much of an issue here as it is at the Paladin Dome," said forward Gilles Villeneuve, who opened scoring at the 32nd minute for the Paladins, who are 1-0-0 in group play. "You can't really make any of it out on the field anyway, and a lot of it just sort of dispersed out into the air."

Kendick Pu picked up the equalizer for the Dragons right off the bat in the second half, and the crowd surged as the Sea Dragons mounted an offensive drive deep into Paladins territory. Keeper Paul Chasson picked up 3 of his 7 saves on this drive.

"They were very good out there," he said after the match. "I just did my best. I sort of refocused after letting in that goal and calmed down a bit."

On the third save his kick found midfielder Jacques Toussaint hanging back, who put it forward for Jesse Miller to pop one into the upper corner of the ASMV net to put the Paladins up for good. Coach William Branstone then put NMS into a 4-4-2 that managed to hold up the lead for the final twenty minutes, with Chasson picking up a pair of key saves.

"Definetly something to be proud of," said Branstone. "But we got a ways to go yet," starting with Arridia, coming off a stunning 3-3 draw with world number 1 Sarzonia, at the Arcea Pana Arena.

The Kazoo Peoples

22-02-2006, 01:13

The Kazoos, in a move similiar to the Baptism of Fire before World Cup 26, announced their roster just 3 minutes before the first match was to be played in the Draggonni Inviyatti Showcase.

In case you don't recall, here's what happened in the Baptism of Fire a while ago...:

The Kazoo Peoples announced their lineups just two and a half minutes before their first match against fellow Group 2 opponent, Dehny.

Commentators and spectators alike were suprised while standing for the playing of the national anthems of both teams, that instead of the words to the respective national anthems shown on the JumboTron, found the roster of the Kazoo Peoples.

"As soon as I get the information, I just slap it up on them there scoreboard," a confused scoreboard technician later commented on the incident.

Dehny citizens were enraged by the untimely timing of the rosters overlaying their national anthem's words.

"Simply an outrage. I can't believe they did that," N. Raged Citizen said. "A disgrace to our proud heritage."

In a similar incident, the team rushed onto the pitch into their 4-4-2 formation (in their blue shorts and orange shirts, a kazoo proudly blazoned on their chest, no less) with 6 seconds left until the start of the match, and a possible forefit had the Kazoo Peoples players not arrived.

The Dehny coach sounded his discontent: "Tried for a sneak attack, eh? I knew coach Manni Aka would try something sneaky, but I didn't think this sneaky."

"We'll be using a 3-5-2 +1 formation all through World Cup 27," said Manni Aka when asked what formation the team will take.

A reporter held up a printed copy of the roster. "Sir, it looks like the same from World Cup 26, save retired players Mike Sweeny and Mozzarella Munster being absent."

"You should see that we've added two new players, Cort Izzone and Mohr Ganfreeman."

"Sir, it still looks the same."

"I don't know what you're talking about -- we've changed a lot of things."

"Ah. Whatever you say, Coach."

The roster of the Kazoo Peoples
Coach: Manni Aka (47). Second year coaching the national team. Last year's World Cup 26 squad took home a berth in the Group stage of the Finals.
[B]# Name (Age, Team)
Goalkeepers
1 Jim Johnson (20, Untitled U-Boats)
::One of the four Johnson brothers on the national squad. Stellar goalkeeper, stopped an insane amount of shots last year.
2 Robert Barker (19, Untitled Understudies)
::Spends his off-time as a local game show host.
Defenders
4 Dirk Smirkley (18, Monte Carlico Matadors)
::Model turned soccer player, his dazzling smile can distract opponents. Far than dazzling play in World Cup 26 has him looking at World Cup 27 benchwarmer.
5 Scovest (22, Untitled U-Boats)
:: Known only by his first name, his recent cologne commercials (Hott Scovest) made him an instant celebrity
6 Aaron Slazeb (31, Kazoo City Kazoos)
:: One of the older members of the team, but his experience helps guide the team, even though he doesn't play too often.
7 Jack Johnson (24, Untitled U-Boats)
:: The second of the four Johnson brothers on the national team. Most likely the least known of the four.
9 Cha Cha Cha (28, Monte Carlico Matadors)
:: In the off-season, he spends his time as a dance instructor.
10 Man I. Anka (26, Kazoo City Kazoos)
:: Hopes to become a defensive great.
Midfielders
11 Kevlar Shafur (20, Untitled U-Boats)
:: Can stop a bullet pass from one of his teammates.
12 Bob Untitled (19, Untitled Understudies)
:: Aspires to be great midfielder when he reaches his prime.
13 Mark Perknowleski (30, Monte Carlico Matadors)
:: Easily the longest last name on the field. It barely fits on the shirt.
23 Mohr Ganfreeman (19, Untitled U-Boats)
:: His droning, booming, unique voice allows him to communicate effectively. People who hear his voice feel a surge of joy. "It's like eating pie." Better. "It's almost orgasmic," someone once said. That's going a bit far, but not that much, strangely.
16 Rudy Johnson (22, Untitled U-Boats)
:: The third of four Johnson brothers.
17 Melvin Hermville (24, Kazoo City Kazoos)
:: After writing years of sports fiction (best-seller Doby Mick), he brings his knowledge of the game to the field.
22 Cort Izzone (27, Kazoo City Kazoos)
:: Multiple knee surgeries would have Cort play in intense pain, but due to a new bionic knee, knee pain is a thing of the past. Used to be a defenseman, but has changed to midfielder.
Forwards
18 Chadd Johnson (26, Untitled U-Boats)
:: The fourth of the Johnson brothers. Arguably, the best of them all.
19 Jonny Lampshade (19, Untitled U-Boats)
:: One of the few dark-skinned men on the team. "I like to sunbathe every other day. I mean, hour. What's wrong with that?
20 Jezze Stingray (30, Kazoo City Kazoos)
:: Having two "z"s in his name makes him cool. Real cool.
3 Ham Mertime (24, Untitled Understudies)
::Washed-Up Rapper/Singer/Songwriter, now a star soccer player. Didn't see much action in World Cup 26, but hopes to change that, as he moved from backup goalkeeper to backup forward.

Starting Lineup
GK Jim Johnson
D Scovest
D Cha Cha Cha
D Jack Johnson
MF Kevlar Shafur
MF Mark Perknowleski
MF Mohr Ganfreeman
MF Cort Izzone
MF Rudy Johnson
F Jonny Lampshade
F Chadd Johnson

[[OOC]]
My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events Y, within reason
RP injuries to my players Y
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

[NS]Bazalonia

22-02-2006, 04:17

"Bazalonia Flogged by Casari. The Death of The Bazalopes?" by Nev Gould

"This is Stupid" stated James Gaines, president of the BFSA in a press conference held after the match. " The lowest ranked team in our group, Cuation, is ranked 43 in the world. Milcama is ranked 41 and our most recent opponent Casari, was 19th. If things do not start to turn around. I might have to seriously look at our participation in these 'invitationals'."

The Casari Tigers, the team that we encountered in you first match of the invitational, beat us by 5 goals to nil in a total whitewash of a game. The Bazalopes where outclassed in nearly every area. James went on to say "While it was a great honour, and we appreciate the invitation by the Andossa Se Mitrin Vegan organisers. But to see our Bazalopes humiliated like this, that's just too much."

While I have great respect for James Gaines, as a leader of the BFSA, and generally agree with his statements, we can't know that the team will be a total embarrassment. The one good thing about being 104th on the ladder is that no one expects much at all from you. If we fail to win or draw, particularily in the group we have, then we will just live up to expectations.... But if we happen to draw or, God forbid... Win something... then Wow... imagine what people will think of us then? No longer that 104th nothing, but a team that while is still only 104th, is still a force to be reckoned with on the international stage and not be counted upon as "an easy win"

We can do much to increase our international soccer reputation., but nothing to decrease it. If the coaching team has this in mind for their next match, against Milchama... well we might have a chance of winning. We can loose nothing from this invitational, but everything to gain.

Needless to say there is nothing really more to be said about the 5-nil loss against Casari.... They where just too good.

Casari

22-02-2006, 04:38

*coughrostercough*

Casari plays a 0 in international competitions, but plays a 3-1-2-1-3 formation.

Name Age Pos Prior Experience
Vivica Hill 39 General Manager WC24-26
Vivica Hill 39 Head Coach WC24-26
Greg Ruhlman 39 Assistant Coach WC26
Dick Eidswick 46 Offense Coach WC24-26
Giancarlo Fivialli 41 Defense Coach WC24-26
Bri Norman 39 Goalkeeper Coach WC24-26
Willi Hutchenson 62 Head Scout WC24-26
Nickolas Veran 44 Head Trainer WC24-26

Returning Players
No. Name Club Age Pos Prior Experience
1 Scott William Tyrellia City 31 GK WC24,26
3 Ari Saienz Tyrellia City 33 LF WC24-26
7 John Grainger Tyrellian International 34 LM WC24-26
8 Javis LeMurry West Baronies SC 30 HB WC25-26
12 Jared Livingston Fedala Imperials (Macabees) 26 LF WC26
14 Edward Roe Shelby FC 33 RF WC25-26
15 Alberto Larini Winton Market SC 32 FM WC24-26
18 Jay Letra Tyrellian International 30 RB WC24-26
19 Reginold Edson Shelby FC 27 RM WC26
22 Oscar Swanson Shelby FC 26 LB WC26
34 Salvidore Rooney West Baronies SC 34 GK WC24-26
44 Andy Ronalo Tyrellian International 37 CF WC24-26
52 Red Ryerbach Winton Market SC 34 CF WC25-26
66 Will Samson Tyrellia City 25 LB WC26
68 Brian Nelson Tyrellia City 31 RB WC24-26

New Players
No. Name Club Age Pos
6 Arthur Delia Brighton Hill FC 23 CB
11 Lari Elsise Cornerian 24 RF
21 Leonard Fillmore United Arcadian 24 LM
39 Welam Delo Astra Royal SC 25 RM
43 Scott Nermeier Factory Row SC 23 CB
50 Terry Isar Queenstown SC 26 HB

Kits: First (http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b20/Casari/Kit1.png) Second (http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b20/Casari/kit2.png) Third (http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b20/Casari/kit3.png)

Feel free to do whatever you want, but try to lay off the injuries please.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b20/Casari/4sport.png

5-0 win makes a good start to the invitational
Bazalonia outclassed, new callups look good

The 6 new callups to the new 22-player roster of the Casaran National team showed that they were definately no slouches in a 5-0 win over Bazalonia where all six saw time on the pitch. "We're quite happy with the new crop of youngsters as we begin to prepare for another international campaign." GM/C Hill said in her first messages to the press of the tournement.

A more worrying fact, however, is the dimishing pace of the aging Ronalo, who was a strech to retain a spot on the team for the 4th consecutive cup. While not quite as fast as he used to be, he managed to score twice in the match today, before coming off in the 60th minute.

"I believe Ronalo remains a vital member of our team. He may be getting up in years, but he is still important to our offense." Hill said to the press. Irregardless, Ronalo has come out to a successful start in what has to be his last national campaign as a player, although some have him pegged for the coaching position currently held by Hill.

Wentland

22-02-2006, 06:45

337.14 EBluff press/transcript

Q: Your experimental line up did not work, did it?

A: We gained a lot of experience. It will come in useful.

Q: Ed, we all knew Okey was not someone to rely on...why did you choose him at right back?

A: He had an excellent game. He was not at fault for the goals.

Q: Are you sending Wright home following that assault on McAndrew?

A: It was merely a mistimed tackle. He was unlucky to be red-carded. However he misses the next two games unless our appeal is successful. But he will stay with the squad.

Q: Martin Smith looked lost at centre-forward...

A: It was a big game for him, he has been suffering from a knock which is why he came off. But I was pleased with his endeavour and with Thwaitesy's performance.

Q: Do you regret not bringing the twins on earlier?

A: No.

Q: Is there any truth to the rumour that you've been rumping an Italian advocette?

A: No further questions.

Sarzonia

22-02-2006, 07:25

Stars struggle out of gate, 3-3

Carrington, Andossa Se Mitrin Vega (ASP) -- For Sarzonia coach Dave Wilson, the Dragon Invitational provided the opportunity to try out a mostly second choice side in a tournament and evaluate players for the future. After Sarzonia played to a 3-3 draw against Ariddia, Wilson may want to reconsider his decision to play mostly subs.

"We just didn't play well in any phase of the game except offence," Wilson said. "Our goalkeeping was shaky, our defence was awful, midfield was spotty at best. We've got a lot of work ahead of us."

Sarzonia (0-1-0, one point) barely resembled the team that captured its first-ever AOCAF trophy even though most of the players were the same with the exceptions of goalkeeper Harvey Cooley (two saves), midfielder Jenna Raven, and forward Kevin Wilson. Dave Wilson said reserve goalkeeper Marty Tolliver would start the next match.

"We're going to have to find a combination that works for us," Wilson said. "Whether it's Cooley or Tolliver, we're going to have to find out before the bullets start firing in the World Cup."

For their parts, the Stars rallied from a 3-1 deficit at the end of the first half to draw the match level with five minutes remaining when the coach sent on forward Brian Williams to play in a 3-4-3 formation. However, the Stars couldn't breach the Ariddian goal for the full three points.

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

22-02-2006, 08:20

Sea Dragons Lose Opener to Paladins

Opening their own Inviyatti in their own nation’s largest stadii, the Sea Dragons felt as if they would have a huge advantage over visiting New Montreal States today. The squad was ready, the fans were ready, and unfortunately, NMS was ready as well.

The match started as expected with both defenses playing strong, allowing very few chances. That changed in the 32nd minute when Gilles Villeneuve slipped one past ASMV keeper Shaun Conarky to take a 1-nil lead. As halftime began, the Sea Dragon fans let the Paladins know what they thought of that fact.

Whatever coach Pao St Martinique said to the squad during the break must have worked. In the first minute of the second half, Kendrick Pu evened the score with a blistering shot past Paul Casson. The pace of the match immediately shifted, and a more up tempo, frantic style ruled the field as each team looked for what it felt could be the deciding moment in the match.

And it was the Paladins, not the Sea Dragons, that found that chance. In the 70th minute, a blistering shot from ASMV’s Porche Alexander was cleared downfield to find Jacques Toussaint with more than a bit of luck. A nifty pass to Jesse Miller set up a shot that just beat Conarky to the corner of the net. NMS then shifted formation to a 4-4-2 and managed to thwart the Sea Dragon attack for the remainder of the match. Chassom rose to the occasion stopping both shots(Evans, Iglesias) that by all rights should have found the back of the net. Final score NMS 2-1 ASMV.

Next up for the Sea Dragons - The Stars of Sarzonia. Even the most optimistic ASMV fan will admit that Sarzonia will not allow another upstart squad to earn another point from them after Ariddia accomplished that feat today. It should prove to be a long day for the hosts in this one.

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

22-02-2006, 08:36

Presidente Plans Visit With Starblaydi Player

After reading a press release out of Starblaydia this morning, Presidente Commandante Viastormin Vega, Crown Prince of ASMV, invited the Starblaydi player Roberto Vega to the Presidential Palace for a brief stay once the tourney comes to a close. Rumor has it that the Presidente is also intrigued by the shared surname and similarities of both nations language and culture.

Several of the top linguists in the country have been working on the translation of the names of the competing nations into Vegan. Thus far, none of the results have been released. This should change very quickly as Viastormin himself has requested the information now. Like Roberto, most Vegans also eagerly await the results.

It is also apparent that the Presidente has taken an interest in the similarities between Starblaydia’s Victoria province and that of our own beloved nation and plans an official visit as soon as the details of such can be worked out between the two nations.

Just in!!! The list of Nation name translations to Ancient Vegan!!!! (let's see who likes it, and who is irritated)

Starblaydia - Taikii Vega: Large Radiance Star
Cuation - Nicciyoi: Three Thousand Generations
Sarzonia - Asukii: Fragrance of a Bright Day
Ariddia - Kazi Koi: Friendly Child
NMS - Inoue Kii: One Reality
Schiavonia - Chiakii: Very Fine Autumn
Wentland - Nazmin: Eternal Beautiful Child
The Islands of Qutar - Mijaru'u: Big Dipper of the Ocean
Tadjikistan - Akii Zahn: Autumn Breeze
The Archregimancy - Hessagii: Holy River Valley
Hypocria - Makai: Serenity Bridge
The Kazoo Peoples - Aktaii: Beautiful Clear Sky
Casari - Sahza: Glorious Hero
Milchama - Zumjii: Clear Water
Bazalonia - Matsuij: Given by Fate

The Islands of Qutar

22-02-2006, 11:01

The Islands of Qutar National Team

Team Roster

Manager:: Paul Dove (Age::52)

GK :: Peter Stone (Club::Cëre United, Age::18)
GK :: Geraint Kozel (Club::Arun City, Age::19)
GK :: Peter Turner (Club::Bembridge FC, Age::19)
DEF :: Nick Saunders (Club::Bembridge FC, Age::21)
DEF :: Dominic Kelly (Club::Cëre United, Age::20)
DEF :: David Howell (Club::Arun City, Age::19)
DEF :: Amir Safavi (Club::Newport FC, Age::20)
DEF :: Alex Martin (Club::Bembridge FC, Age::22)
DEF :: William Lemkes (Club::Bembridge FC, Age::17)
MID :: David Parker (Club::Bristol City, Age::18)
MID :: Sam Tomlin (Club::Bristol City, Age::19)
MID :: Chris Saunders (Club::Bembridge FC, Age::23)
MID :: John Gordon (Club::Ryde United, Age::19)
MID :: Olliver Smith (Club::Cëre United, Age::19)
MID :: Nick Rogers (Club::Cëre United, Age::19)
ATK :: Thomas Siese (Club::Cëre United, Age::19)
ATK :: Ali (Club::Cëre United, Age::20)
ATK :: James Lemkes (Club::Bembridge FC, Age::21)
ATK :: James Thomas (Club::Bembridge FC, Age::21)

Qutar Sports News Network

Today in press conference called by the QFA, they announced their intentions of playing in the Draggonni Inviyatii. An invitation only tornament sixteen teams, spilt into 4 groups and wanting the big prize. We have been drawn in Group Graii along with the giants we killed last World Cup Starblaydia, Schiavonia who we defeated in the Quarter Finals of the Baptism of Fire XIII and Wentland who we've never played against before.

Starting Line-Up (4-4-2 Formation, Style Modifier::0)
GK :: Peter Stone [1]
DEF :: Nick Saunders [2]
DEF :: Dominic Kelly [3]
DEF :: David Howell [4]
DEF :: William Lemkes [5]
MID :: Sam Tomlin [6]
MID :: Chris Saunders (Capt.) [7]
MID :: John Gordon [8]
MID :: David Parker [15]
ATK :: Ali [10]
ATK :: James Thomas [11]

On the Bench
GK :: Peter Turner [12]
DEF :: Amir Safavi [13]
DEF :: Alex Martin [14]
MID :: Nick Rogers [9]
MID :: Olliver Smith [16]
ATK :: Tom Siese [17]
ATK :: James Lemkes [18]

Pundits Verdict

Peter Stone :: A very safe choice for the first choice goalkeeper, for the past two seasons since his controversial start aged just 16, he has proven himself worthy of wearing the gloves, time after time he has saved Cëre United from defeat with saves that at times are beyond belief. But there have been times when the fans have not been so happy with his performance, but since those times he has come out stronger and better from it.

Nick Saunders :: A good solid choice for leading the defence, has seen four seasons at Bembridge FC, and has been an asset to the club throughout those seasons. He is always putting in the last minute tackles when you'd thought the forward had broken through, helps to push the midfield up, and makes some useful runs down the left wing.

Dominic Kelly :: A very strong defender, very strong in his tackling as well, but not to the extent that he's fouling all of the time although fans of Cëre United might disagree. A good choice for a central defender, and has three seasons of experience with Bembridge FC, works well supporting Nick Saunders and William Lemkes.

David Howell :: A charismatic player, whose defensive abilities make up for the lack of it in his fellow players at Arun City, all to often they have relied on him during the past two seasons, and thanks largely to him they have managed to stave of relegation from the Premier League. Has managed to score a few goals for himself as well during those two seasons. Some have said that 2 years at Arun City is enough to age a man at least 10 years.

William Lemkes :: The third Bembridge FC defender in the opening line-up, this young talent has shone on the pitch, no longer will it be a certainty of strikers like Ali, and James Thomas to slice through the defence. He manages to put up quite a challenge to opposing strikers, he's not afraid to dive into tackles and unfortunately as a result has a higher than average number of yellow cards.

Sam Tomlin :: One of two Bristol City players named in the squad, he has shown great talent on the pitch last and this season, he can pick out a pass with pin-point precision, and get the ball just where the striker wants it, unfortunately the strikers at Bristol City aren't so good at latching onto that. But with the talent of strikers in the national squad his passing service could be incredibly useful

Chris Saunders :: The player with the most experience on the side, which will come in very useful in the games to come having played in seven seasons for Bembridge United, he is a very tactical player and can fill his position in the centre of midfield very well, running back to help in defence if needed and running up to support the strikers. A good choice for Captain.

John Gordon :: The only player in the squad from Ryde United, even though Ryde are a lower-middle table club, he has turned in some good performances in the centre of midfield, a strong player not afraid of going in for the tackle. Can link up very well with other players to build up play.

David Parker :: A bright spark down the right wing of midfield, although inexperienced his talent does show through. Many goals for Bristol City have been set up by a neat cross right into the waiting striker. The Manager had dropped him from the starting line-up for the Baptism of Fire until he cleaned up his act, and was put into the squad after the Bazalonia game.

Ali :: One of the shining talents of Qutari football, ever since on his debut for Cëre United and scoring that wonder goal after dancing past all of the defenders and the goalkeeper, and he has continued on in this fashion worrying defensive line-ups all through the season.

James Thomas :: The other shining talent of Qutari football, an explosive force on the ball, combined with the fact that he can seemingly score from anywhere on the pitch, makes him a presence to be reckoned with. Combined with Ali the partnership should be unstoppable.

[I]Peter Turner :: The number two goalkeeper in the country, but only by a small margin, also a young starter at just 17, a great find by Bembridge FC. For the past couple of seasons with him at the back and the strikeforce the other end, they have been a tough match for Cëre United. Some have said that his skills are underestimated due the fact that he has the best defence in the league protecting him.

Amir Safavi :: The only player from Newport FC, and has fuelled the hopes of its fans that they would be relegated this season. Thanks to his efforts they have managed to halt their descent down the table, a wise transfer during the last transfer window. A solid central defender, with four seasons experience.

Alex Martin :: The second most experienced player on the team with six seasons of experience at Bristol City, not the most bright star of talent in the midfield, but still a talented player who can hold the centre of defence together, and is a strong player.

Nick Rogers :: Another of the Cëre United players in the national team, also the least experienced midfielder on the side, who has shown great talent this season with Cëre United, skipping past defenders in the wing to slip in a well placed cross for the strikers. Was dropped from the squad in favour of the cleaned up Parker after a mediocre performance.

Olliver Smith :: A fan favourite of Cëre United, has set up and scored many goals over the past two seasons, but an injury early on in the season which he is only just getting over, has lost him a starting place in the National Squad.

Tom Siese :: The strike partner of Ali at Cëre United, a very gifted striker, although in his partner's shadow. But his contributions to the partnership gives Cëre United's attack more depth.

James Lemkes :: A very talented striker at Bembridge FC, and a very good friend of his partner, which leads to a very effective strikeforce and they can string together a move to slice through the defence.

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers N
Godmod Scoring Events Y
RP injuries to my players Y (Within reason, i.e No deaths)
Godmod injuries to my players N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y (Within reason)
Hand out Red cards to my players Y (Within reason)
Godmod Other Events N

Starblaydia

22-02-2006, 11:41

"...and Pedro Martinez joins us now on 'Late Night Review' to let us know what's in tomorrow's papers. Welcome back, Pedro, nice to see you."

"Thank-you, Franco."

"So, what's the story that's gracing the pages we'll be reading tomorrow, as if there could be any other?"

"Dasha Tolkacheva, of course. You've got it in one," Pedro shuffles his papers, "the big story on both front and back pages of the tabloids and the broadsheets is the transfer of Dasha Tolkacheva from her Hallad Globes side to Iskara Daii. Just take a look at the Jhanna Chronicle for instance:

Dash's Dream Date with Daii
Starblaydia's hottest striker moves to Iskara

Dasha "Dash" Tolkacheva, Starblaydia's incredible new young striker, today sealed a multi-million Credit move to Starblaydia's most-famous club. Tolkacheva, twenty-three, has moved just in time before the opening of Liga Starblaydia Season Eight.

She has moved from the Women's League team Hallad Globes to the Daii for something in the region of fourteen Million Starblaydi Credits, becoming the first female player for the Daii....

"They have a knack of summing the story up in a couple of paragraphs," Franco chuckled, "don't they?"

"I'm afraid all the best papers do, Franco. It's just a case of looking at the other headlines now: 'Dashhie Does Daii', 'Tolkacheva Daii-Bound' 'Vegan adventure seals Daii Deal for Dash', "Iskara in for Tolkacheva'."

"That's all well and good, but what of people who haven't been following her football exploits over the past five or so years?"

"Well, Franco," Pedro chuckled, "it's a case of 'what rock have you been hiding under?' because this girl is just a phenomenon. First of all she's a brilliant footballer, blessed with incredible pace and an increasingly-deadly finishing ability. She's currently got eleven caps for Starblaydia at the age of twenty-three, and she's managed to score precisely eleven goals in those games, a near-unique 100% strike rate, which at international level is unheard of."

"One is reminded of Zhorin Tumunzahar's 18 goals in 18 games for the Under-21s, just look how he turned out."

"Exactly. And not only is 'Dash', as she's known, a great player she's a media baron's dream. She's beautiful, handles PR very well and is now fronting a range of endorsements like even Cherry Garcia in her prime couldn't dream of. Which, I might add, is really saying something. Apparently Ediraf are sponsoring her in the multi-million credit per year figure, just to wear their stuff when she's out and about."

"That's some sponsorship pulling-power she's got."

"Precisely, which is why Iskara Daii have come in for her. Everyone knows they're one of the biggest clubs in the world, and having one of the best young - and female - players in the world is a complete marketing coup, her potential was actually being wasted at the Globes in Liga Ipsilon."

"So," Franco concluded, "that's sport, business and a beautiful woman. Just what you need at 2am. Pedro Martinez, thank-you."

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

22-02-2006, 21:02

Draggonnii Inviyatii MD2 Results

Yumbo Jumbo Sports Complex
ASMV 2-4 Sarzonia

Arcea Pana Arena
Ariddia 2-7 NMS

Group Eda
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 NMS 2 2 0 0 9 3 6 6
2 Sarzonia 2 1 1 0 7 5 2 4
3 Ariddia 2 0 1 1 5 10 -5 1
4 ASMV 2 0 0 2 3 6 -3 0

Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse
Wentland 1-4 Starblaydia

Tapia Reis Civic Field
Qutar 2-3 Schiavonia

Group Graii
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Starblaydia 2 2 0 0 10 1 9 6
2 Schiavonia 2 2 0 0 5 2 3 6
3 Wentland 2 0 0 0 1 6 -5 0
4 Qutar 2 0 0 0 2 9 -7 0

Errion Vega Stadii
Hypocria 1-2 Tadjikistan

Inferii Domei
The Kazoo Peoples 2-1 The Archregimancy

Group Takaina
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 The Kazoo Peoples 2 2 0 0 3 1 2 6
2 Tadjikistan 2 1 0 1 2 2 0 3
2 The Archregimancy 2 1 0 1 3 3 0 3
4 Hypocria 2 0 0 0 2 4 -2 0

Carrington Championship Arena
Cuation 0-1 Casari

Voque Stadii
Bazalonia 2-3 Milchama

Group Qual
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Casari 2 2 0 0 6 0 6 6
2 Milchama 2 1 1 0 5 4 1 4
3 Cuation 2 0 1 1 2 3 -1 1
4 Bazalonia 2 0 0 2 2 8 -6 0

MD3 Schedule:

Sarzonia vs NMS - Voque Stadii
ASMV vs Ariddia - Inferii Domei

Starblaydia vs Sciavonia - Yumbo Jumbo Sports Complex
Wentland vs The Islands of Qutar - carrington Champioship Arena

Tadjikistan vs The Archegimancy - Tapia Reis Civic Arena
Hypocria vs The Kazoo Peoples - Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse

Casari vs Milchama - Arcea Pana Arena
Cuation vs Bazalonia - Errion Vega Stadii

Qualified for Championship Bracket
Relegated to Consolation Bracket

Hypocria

22-02-2006, 21:45

The Stars Are Out In ASMV

They may be relative newcomers to the international sports scene but Andossa Se Mitrin Vega’s invitational football tournament has attracted some of the best and brightest nations around. Former World Champions Sarzonia and Starblaydia are in attendance alongside talented newcomers such as the Islands of Qutar and the Kazoo Peoples. And all are here to compete for the honour of taking home the inaugural Draggonnii Arce Tropia.

So let’s take a (belated) look at the groups . . .

Group Eda

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega as hosts may have huge local support for their matches, but that brings with it a huge pressure to succeed. That pressure clearly showed as the Sea Dragons dropped both their opening two fixtures to the New Montreal States and Sarzonia. Dave Wilson’s side looked like the group’s favourites but dropped two points against Ariddia, allowing NMS to take control.

Group Graii

The Purple Peril are quite clearly the team to beat in Graii after hammering the Islands of Qutar 6 - 0, erasing memories of defeat to the same team at the World Cup Finals, and then putting four past Wentland. The Men in Mauve are joined by Schiavonia in the Championship bracket after the Sloth’s similarly won both their opening two games.

Group Takina

Hypocria finds itself in Group Takina alongside Monks, Tigers and Kazoos. And guess what? We’re already out of contention. What a huge surprise. Confidence in the Autocracy is at rock bottom, which coincidentally is where many fans expect the Hyppos to finish. The Kazoo People are the surprise leaders after two games while the Archregimancy and Tadjikistan meet in the final game to decide who joins them in the championship bracket.

Group Qual

Two wins from two games has kept Casari on course for a possible trophy. Milchama are favourites to join them but Cuation could still sneak second place. Bazalonia have to make do with a place in the consolation bracket.

Next Up . . .

The Kazoo Peoples are our next opponents in this stage of tournament. They are through to the championship half of the draw while we’re condemned to the loser’s bracket. Doesn’t exactly inspire confidence does it? Unfortunately after this match we can’t simply slink off home. Oh no. Every nation will have a placing when this competition ends. Finishing sixteenth out of sixteen would just about prove how crapii (sic) we truly are.

Wentland

22-02-2006, 22:23

It started to go wrong when the coach took a wrong turning and ended up at the Civic Field rather than the Meldenburg Mountain. Fortunately the WFA had got the wrong start time as well and they had 5 hours to dash madly across Andossa to get to the Fieldhouse.

Then there was the problem in finding Okey. He had noticed an unusual patch of flowers and with his ippod cranked to twelve listening to Brother Dolcino And The Pseudo Apostles no-one could get his attention. Ron Fletcher had to deputise, smirking.

And finally there was the problem of dealing with a hyper-confident Starblaydia. Having scored six in their first the Starblaydi overwhelmed the experimental Wentland defence and were two-up within the first ten minutes, the first when Vega out-jumped Jenkins to glance a noble Noble long ball past Derrington. Then some Matranga midfield magic mesmerized Moon, meandering madly 'midst morose maladroit men...twisting, turning, trying to tease tender touches to Tolkacheva...Dasha deceived despairing Derrington doubling disaster.

Wentland picked it up a bit later in the half, but left themselves open at the back, and when a corner was punched off Jenkins' head the Starblaydi broke at pace and Vega ran half the length of the pitch without any serious challenge to make it three.

Half-time and Edgar Bluff changed things around radically - three substitutions, with the belated Okey on for an aghast Fletcher, Hopkins on for Smith and Ferris given a go instead of James. And there seemed to be some initial benefit from the changes as Roy Ferris and Joe Okey seemed to link very well, Rakkinen and Chavez suddenly finding themselves with a game on their hands. Suddenly the Swifts were looking dangerous, with Ferris winning free-kicks in dangerous areas, Okey delivering vicious swerving crosses, and Cosmo Kent on the left-wing finding his form and hitting the woodwork with his Swerving Dip Shot™.

The breakthrough came in the 67th minute when Okey induced a foul from Rakkinen with a toreador step-over. He took the kick himself, cleared everyone in the area...only for Kent on the far side of the box to sling his left boot at it and nearly burst the net. 3-1, the goal of the tourney, and some hope.

For about 3 minutes. The time it took to get Vega his hat-trick. Again Matranga wove her magic in the midfield, this time Weston falling over himself in desperate attempts to rob la belle Jade, and her incisive pass bisected Jenkins and Moon as surely as if she had taken a set-square, a protractor, a set of dividers and an Open University professor with National Health glasses, kipper tie and speech impediment (probably mild lithp) to work out the Perfect Pass. All Vega needed do was get his toe to it. Which he did. And it was.

4-1. Pah. The Bluff had been called...1 goal in 2 matches...six conceded...had Bluff done enuff?

The Kazoo Peoples

22-02-2006, 22:59

We'd like to apologize to those people expecting a full match summary yesterday when they read yesterday's headline: "...; Kazoos win!"

The editor responsible for the lost article was promptly slapped with a wet noodle for an extended period of time. The editor reportedly had suffered minor cuts and bruises and no major injuries, but these reports have not yet been confirmed. We bring you the full text of yesterday's match, with today's match immediately following.

KAZOOS WIN

Tadjikistan 0-1 The Kazoo Peoples

"Sure, we only won by a goal, but we got a win didn't we?" said Coach Manni Aka as he exited the field after the first match, held in Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse, Androssa Se Mitrin Vega. "Tadjikistan is a tough team, and we barely edged out a win. I'm glad we did, though."

And barely is the key word here. An uninteresting match for the first 80 minutes, things began to heat up at minute 81.

"What do you have to say about the slow start?"

Perknowleski fielded the question: "Well, people have shifted about the pitch, people who are used to doing one thing are now doing another, there are new members of the national squad, and it took some acquainting before we started to click."

"You say it 'took some acquainting.' How long was the plane ride over here? 17 hours? Di--"

"18, we stopped for gas."

"Well, whatever. Didn't you guys get to know each other much better whilst on the plane? Did you practice at all before getting here? You have had a year* since the last World Cup, why haven't you utilized the time given to get to know each other?"

"Well, let's just say we like to procrastinate."

The room erupted with laughter. The mood lightened a bit, and the rest of the press conference was filled with silly questions such as "Is your refridgerator running?" , "What type of pie do you enjoy most?" , and "Do you read left to right or right to left?"

Cha Cha Cha, receiving a pass from goalkeeper Jim Johnson, danced his way up the field, eventually getting rid of the ball in a skillful pass to Mohr Ganfreeman as a Tadjikistan forward (#32 Salenko) approached. Mohr Ganfreeman shouted for someone to get open (his voice was so unique, even the cheering fans in the stands heard him), and Chadd Johnson was patiently waiting by the goal. Johnson received the pass, and knocked in the goal off of his head at minute 86.

Learn Ancient Vegan -- Impress your friends, family, and potential girlfriend!

Aktaii - Beautiful Clear Sky : translation of "The Kazoo Peoples"

*[[OOC: In Kazoo years, the World Cup is spaced every year due to a rip in the space-time fabric. Sue us.]]

KAZOOS WIN GAME TWO

The Kazoo Peoples 2-1 The Archregimancy

"Wait -- we don't have to wait for the last matchday to see if we qualify? Are you sure?" said Coach Manni Aka, sounding shocked. "We had to wait for the last day in both the Pre-World Cup 26 Baptism of Fire and World Cup 26 qualification, but not here?"

"Um, no Coach. You won today, so we can't be kicked out."

"Wow. That's shocking," was his reply.

Suddenly, the doors burst open, and a young man, aged 25 or 30, wearing a shirt that was a replica Schiavonian jersey ran into the conference room where the interviews were being held, ran onstage, and gave the Coach a huge hug, and continued to hold on to him. Aka, in total shock, did nothing until the security detail pulled him off.

The man was heard shouting as he was being dragged away, "It's a 'hello hug!' I read about it in The Schiavone Scribe! They didn't say anything about the length! Just not too many!"

The Coach shrugged.

According to our researchers, the Schiavone Scribe said this about the Kazoos:

The Kazoo Peoples
We went there for a friendly, and the Kazoos were just as we remembered them from the Baptism of Fire. A bloody nice bunch. If you see any of the Kazoo Peoples in your neighbourhood, be sure to give them a big hello hug. But not too many, else they'll think you're weird.

Hm. Coach Manni Aka later said,

"Eh, at least he didn't have a bomb on him. Then things could have gotten messy," and then laughed. "It was a rather nice hug."

The Schiavone Scribe declined comment when called, saying that a formal statement is in the works, and also declined when, if ever, the statement would be prodeuced.

And, onto the match:

Scoring was made early and simply, requiring little description from a report. If you need more description, then make up your own.

At minute 10, Lampshade missed by a shade, and the ball bounced off the post. Ganfreeman was there for the rebound and curved it in for the goal.

Ten minutes later, at minute 20, it was Lampshade's turn to shine, as a nice pass by fellow forward Johnson allowed Lampshade to fake-shoot it left, then shot it right past the diving goalkeeper.

And from there on out, The Kazoos dominated the possession of the ball, out-having(?) the ball 67 minutes to 23.

The only score by the opposition came after what appeared to be a missed offsides call. After a charge by the Kazoo offence, the ball was taken back and shot downfield by The Archregimancy. A forward, clearly ahead of Scovest by at least a leg and a torso, nailed the ball past the goalkeeper Johnson (who was busy yelling at the referee to call the offside).

"Eh, we still won," said Johnson after the game.

The match tomorrow is against eliminated, last-place Hypocria at the Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse. Aka, when asked, said that he is "90% sure that he'll use 50% or less of his starters."

That makes sense, sort of.

Learn Ancient Vegan -- Impress your friends, family, and potential girlfriend!

Drei - Beer. Open a cold drei, and you're always a winner.

Progress In Draggonnii Inviyatii:
MD1: win over Tadjikistan 1-0
MD2: win over The Archregimancy 2-1
MD3: vs Hypocria
---
Knockout Stages...?

Group Takaina
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 The Kazoo Peoples 2 2 0 0 3 1 2 6
2 Tadjikistan 2 1 0 1 2 2 0 3
2 The Archregimancy 2 1 0 1 3 3 0 3
4 Hypocria 2 0 0 0 2 4 -2 0

New Montreal States

22-02-2006, 23:10

PALADINS PICK UP LARGEST EVER VICTORY

7-2 thumping of Arridia secures advancement, sets record

ARCEA PANA ARENA, ASMV - Various NMS record book were rewritten last night here during the Paladins' 7-2 romp over the Rouge-et-Noirs of Arridia. Most goals scored and largest margin of victory are the two obvious ones for those who follow Paladins football. And, of course, there's Gilles Villeneuve with the first ever four-goal performance in Paladins history.

He started it all at only 8 minutes, launching a missile from the edge of the box that left the Arridian keeper scrambling. Frédéric Clément picked up the equalizer at 23 minutes, and a 30th-minute goal by Ue Alt had the Rouge-et-Noirs smelling upset. The score remained 2-1 at the half, as Branstone prepared to give the Paladins a chewing-out they would never forget.

And whatever was said seemed to have stuck.

Jesse Miller intercepted a pass at the midfield and brought up the ball. After a crossbar shot by Paul Yates, Villeneuve was there for the header, and the score was tied again. The Paladins, however, were just getting warmed up.

Miller picked up his second goal of the tourney at 59 minutes, as a mix-up in the Rouge-et-Noir defense gave him a hole the size of a Métro tunnel to shoot through. Villeneuve picked up his third of the day on a penalty shot awarded when defenseman Tim Wald got a bit too enthusiastic in the box, taking down Andy Gordon in a move more suited for gridiron than football. After play resumed, the Paladins defense blunted a last-ditch charge by the Rouge-et-Noirs, with the ball going clear down the pitch to Villeneuve, who picked up his fourth and final goal.

The Arridians, displeased with Villeneuve's grab at personal glory, gave him a love tap that had the ref's card out, sending Wald to the showers. Branstone yanked his forward to prevent any further damage, and reserve forward Zachary Smith picked up the sixth goal on the penalty kick.

The final goal is one that we, had we been the referees, would not have permitted. With 2 seconds left, Arridian keeper Ludovic Hue (in for Sandrine Leduc, yanked after the fourth goal) spiked the ball in disgust. The referee ruled that the ball had crossed the line, and handed a seventh goal to the Paladins, depsite protests from both sides that this was "ridiculous" by the Arridians and "(unprintable)" from coach Branstone. No matter, a seventh goal was awarded, with credit going to midfielder Charles Pilon (the last Paladin to touch the ball).

World number one Sarzonia is up next in a match that will be fairly anticlimatic for the Paladins, who have already secure advancement and might be resting Villeneuve and other key starters.

Sarzonia

22-02-2006, 23:17

Stars win, but Wilson breathes fire

Relative football novices and tournament hosts Andossa Se Mitrin Vega hosted the Sarzonian national football team in a match some observers expected to go Sarzonia's way without much resistance, and they were right. At least, where Andossa Se Mitrin Vega itself was concerned. However, shaky play both on defence and in goal had led to Coach Dave Wilson calling a closed door meeting after Sarzonia's 4-2 win over the Dragons.

"Marty [Tolliver, the starting goalkeeper] played one of the worst matches I've seen him play," Wilson said. "Our defence played like it's never seen a lick of international football. Those two areas have got to get better if we're to go through to the next round."

Forward Kenny Cooper broke an extended dry spell with his first hat trick as a member of the senior Stars and strike partner Kevin Wilson added a goal as the Stars (1-1-0, four points) survived their slow start that saw them trailing 2-0 at the 25 minute mark of the first half. Cooper could only get one goal back in time for the end of the first half, but he and Kevin Wilson quickly got the Stars back into the match upon the start of the second half.

"Our offence hasn't been a problem," Dave Wilson said. "We can score goals with everyone but Starblaydia at the moment, but we have to do a better job of not conceding goals."

Dave Wilson denied published reports that goalkeeper Horace Sandt called him and offered to come out of retirement to backstop the team.

"We're going to have to dance with the girl we brought to the party," he said. "This is who we are as a team until World Cup qualifiers begin. We're here to improve our depth as a team and we have to develop for the future of Sarzonian football." He said the team would not petition to re-enter the Under 21 World Cup because "the reason we pulled out no longer applies," but said that reenergising the player development system "is a matter of utmost importance.

"We're starting to get long in the tooth and short on depth," Wilson said. "That's going to have to change if we're going to be a team to reckon with in the future."

[NS]Bazalonia

22-02-2006, 23:32

"What happened to Hobble?" by Nev Gould

Once again our Bazalopes have faced the MIlchama Warriors, and once again it has ended with a 2-3 loss. The same exact scoreline in the Cup of Harmony, though there was something in this match, that could only be described as weird. For the last few days before the match against Milchama, Peter Hobble has been acting veryweird, an almost total change of character. This was brought out in the match, not only did he score the 2 Bazalonian goals... but he also got a red card. Hobble, has never received a yellow card before let alone a red.

The first Hobble goal was scored in the 56th minute, he had received the ball from "Benny Boy" Peters he kicked the ball with a lot of ferocity, something that we have never seen from Peter Hobble before... The kick was a shot at goal, but , it just did not seen like the Hobble we know. 2 minutes later he aggresively tackled a Milchamian player and earned a yellow card. in the 64th minute.... he scored the second goal... very similiar to the first...and then on the 71st minute he once again aggressively tackled a Milchamian, this time in their own half. It resulted in his red card... Milchama scored in the 36th, 61st and 82nd minutes. Hobble is currently under-going counselling to determine what has happened.

..........

"What, on earth, where you thinking?! First there was the Elrich incident, now this?" bellow Caine and Hobble...

"Yeah, so what?" was all that he replied.

"So what?!.. Well If you wheren't already baned for the red card, your certainly would be banned.. anyway."

"So what'cha going to do about it then?" said Hobble sarcastically...

"Well your going to see a PSychiatrist..... and that's final."

"Oh, no a shrink, I'm so scared, he's going to shrink my skull and use it do adorn his office." said Hobble sarcastically

"That's it... I'm ringing him now..."

... in an hour Hobble was in therapy.... trying to identify what was the cause of the sudden mood swing,oh and later that day they had a body scan done... thinking there might be a proplem with his Nervous System.

Starblaydia

23-02-2006, 00:07

Vega Feeling At Home, Dash Superb
Starblaydia in cruise control, Championship bracket awaits

Both of Starblaydia's starting strikers appear to be on fire. No, not in the flaming, burning, scarring, get the bloody fire extinguisher oh god wont somebody think of the children and is that Steve McQueen I see in the distance sense of the word. But in the 'playing extremely well' sense of the word.

Firstly lets start with Dasha Tolkacheva, partly because she's gorgeous. In 12 appearances now for Starblaydia, Dash has bagged 12 goals. Looking back through the records, the only person to come anywhere near this record is Kurt Recinos, that old Hersch Albion centre-forward who scored 4 goals in his 4 appearances. Other than that the only person breaching a 1-in-2 strike rate was World Cup President Simeone Di Bradini, who bagged 44 in 84 appearances. Surely Dasha's insatiable scoring appetite can't continue at this pace throughout her career, but by the end of this tournament she may have passed Nikola "Laser" Lazerevski's benchmark of 15 goals and be well on her way to the higher achievers.

Now, to Roberto Vega. Though he didn't find the net in Starblaydia's 6-0 thrashing of Qutar, he certainly came into his own at the Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse. First it was another Noble-special, a perfectly-curved cross from the right-hand side that saw Roberto Vega react first to flick on into the top corner for an opening inside five minutes. Three minutes later Jade Matranga's wizardry had drawn in the defenders just enough to give Dasha Tolkacheva more space then she could ever need to break into the box, hurdle the keeper Derrington and tap into the empty net from around two yards.

Starblaydia's youthful team have obviously gelled very quickly, particularly under the leadership of veteran and World Cup Winner Jaime Oberlander, who's defence held off the best Wentland could throw at them, breaking quickly on the counter-attack to give Vega an easy - if fast-paced - second. Though Mathias was left to pick the ball out of the back of the net due to Francisco Ibanez falling asleep at the back post from a free-kick, it wasn't long before Vega rounded off the show.

Matranga, yet again showing the pedigree that having three other family members in Starblaydia's football history books brings, could have picked Vega, Tolkacheva or substitute Nixon to slide the ball to, but true to her excellent vision picked the perfect pass to Vega, who only needed to hit the target, which he duly did.

Starblaydia are now certain of progressing to the top-eight 'Championsship bracket' along with New Montreal States, The Kazoo Peoples, Casari and tomorrow's opponents, Schiavonia. Starblaydia have not faced the peoples of the 46 islands in competition before, so it'll be a new one on our players, much like Wentland was.

With the Group Graii (Two) Winners tag in the offing for the winner of this match, Starblaydia and Schiavonia will certainly be out to win, most likely in well-designed Ediraf kits.

Final Score from Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse:
Wentland 1 - 4 Starblaydia
(Kent 68) - (Vega 4, 32, 71, Tolkacheva 9)

Casari

23-02-2006, 00:43

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b20/Casari/4sport.png

Livingston Goal gives Casari 1-0 win, Qualification
Early campaign wins bring mild excitement

In a match that only did more to raise questions of the fitness of the Casaran starting front three, some of the new blood picked up the slack. A 67' goal by substitute Jared Livingston put Casari on top of the 1-0 contest.

"Our team is showing some good quality early form." GMC Hill said in post match interviews. "If nothing else, this is a positive sign for the rest of our qualifying campaign after the interesting results of the last World Cup."

The Draggonni Inviyatii is the opening stage in what is hoped by many to be a return to the World Cup Finals Second Round, after missing out by finishing third in the group stage after their second qualification last cup.

"We're just showing some good, quality play by a number of players."

Milchama

23-02-2006, 03:51

Chi Alexandria Brooklin Milchama City New Babylon New Sparta Tel Morlin Post- Times- Constitution- Globe- Sun- Journal- News- Telegram- Update- Scribe- Register

Sports Section

Milchama in good position

The Milchama Warriors have gotten off to a good start in the Draggonii Invitational. Despite talk of the players being tired after their Cup of Harmony campaign seems to be wrong as the Warriors have scored 5 goals and have gotten 4 points against two quality sides. Coach Jamie Smith said, "I think this is a team that looks like it could be the ones to get Milchama its first World Cup apperance. We have played two good opponents and played them well, the key test now comes against Casari. We played them before and did well and I think we can repeat this result." Now to the match report against the Bazalopes of Bazalonia:

The Warriors started alright as they dominated the first half again. Only 12 minutes in they struck first as some good wing play from Faren and Kilinin led to a goal by Spot Nielson as his header showed why he is such a well rounded striker as it went low and out of reach of the diving Bazalope keeper 1-0 Warriors. The second goal came only 8 minutes later when Dunston Copperlee shot a ball thru to Darian Flinters whose subsequent run and shot put the Warriors up 2-0 only 20 minutes. They almost got a third 5 minutes later but Peter Hobble made a great stop as he headed Floren's header off the line. The Warriors would not be denied a goal though as in the 44th minute, Matt Bantin made use of his rare start to score a third goal for the Warriors and give them a 3-0 lead. The halftime score was 3-0 for Milchama.

Second Half Report:
Just like the Cuation match the Warriors started to fade in the second half and the Bazalopes started to get some good chances. A hard kick by Irchov Michael almost got a goal but Tuck Koolerc made a nice save to keep the shutout. Then a good run by Micheal in the 55th minute caused a corner kick. Off the corner kick a apparent clearing header by Mills Thompson was not enough as it went strait to the leg of Peter Hobble who shot a blast right through the defense and past Koolerc to make the game 3-1. The hero for Bazalonia soon became the goat as a mad Hobble started making some bad tackles on the Warriors. The worst was in the 58th minute when he tackled Matt Bantin hard and Bantin came down with a big thud. The ref could not let this stand and gave Hobble a yellow. That seem to only make Peter Hobble determined to do some damage to everybody as he got another oppurtunity in the 71st minute and took it beautifully as headed in his second goal and put the Bazalopes to within one goal. Then he became the goat as only 4 minutes he was sent off for another reckless tackle on Spot Nielson. This ended the Bazalope threat and gave the Warriors a 3-2 victory.

Final Score:
Milchama 3 (Nielson 12, Flinters 20, Bantin 44)
Bazalonia 2 (Hobble 56, 71)

[NS]Bazalonia

23-02-2006, 07:38

Story Correction - "What happened to Hobble?" by Nev Gould

It has come to our attention that the times listed in the article entitled "What happened to Hobble?", written by Nev Gould has contained inaccuracies. It seems that while the written text was in transit something happened to the times that goals where scored, mainly by goals by the Milchamian team. Here are the updated and correct figures...

Milchama 3 (Nielson 12, Flinters 20, Bantin 44)
Bazalonia 2 (Hobble 56, 71)

We are sorrt for the inaccuracies and just to emphasise the report filed from the field contained the correct numbers but someone got confused and put the wrong numbers down. Thank you for your understanding.

Ariddia

23-02-2006, 10:46

Goal-fest start against Sarzonia

It was, at least, an exciting match. Six goals in one game, with the lead oscillating between both sides, is enough to keep anyone entertained and on the edge of their seat. Unfortunately, the end result was satisfying to no-one.

“A draw against a side like Sarzonia is a positive result,” the Ariddian coach, Adam Seul, reasoned. “We kept each other on our toes, and that’s been valuable experience for everyone involved. Of course, getting only one point out of it is a bit of a problem. A draw isn’t something anyone can afford in a competition like this.”

With the tense pace and the pressure to score more goals, Ariddia made use of its right to two substitutions, but did not bring in any of the team’s newer, inexperienced players. Instead, John Sanjeeb and Ul U were called upon to infuse a fresh sense of alertness into the Rouge-et-Noirs as the match progressed. Goals by Clément, Delherbe and U made it a reasonably satisfying total of three goals for the Ariddians, preventing Sarzonia from ultimately taking the lead. A controversial penalty kick, well saved by Leduc, also ensured the game remained tied.

“Shocked and reeling”

“We need two clean victories now,” Seul had said after the draw against Sarzonia. Those words were soon to return and haunt him, as Ariddia suffered a stunning 2-7 defeat at the hands of New Montreal States.

It was a tense match, but in a much less pleasant sense than that against Sarzonia. Wald was red-carded in a move that caused Ariddia to concede a second penalty kick, while Hue’s frustration led the referee to award New Montreal States a seventh and final goal best described as “ludicrous”. Never had the renewed Ariddian team conceded this many goals, leaving fans feeling shocked and dismayed.

For the first time in living memory, several angry Ariddian supporters entered a fistfight with fans of the opposite side, in a pub not far from the stadium. They were immediately deported, and the Ariddian authorities have condemned their behaviour as “disgraceful”. Ariddia also congratulated New Montreal States on their “excellent playing and well-deserved victory”.

Perhaps the most memorable moment of the match, however, and the one that marked supporters most lastingly, was goalkeeper Sandrine Leduc tearfully asking to be replaced part-way through the game. Visibly distraught, she announced soon after that she was resigning from the national team, “as I feel I can no longer live up to the expectations of my team mates and my fellow Ariddians.” Seul has since confirmed that he has reluctantly granted Leduc’s wish to leave the team.

Amidst this intense disappointment, the one event to bring a slight smile to most people’s lips was the discovery that, in Vegan, ‘Ariddia’ is translated as ‘Kazi Koi’, which apparently means ‘Friendly Child’.

“I’m sure they mean it nicely,” Clément said, though his mind was obviously elsewhere. “It may sound a little strange, and some may consider it insulting to be compared to a child, but I assume in Vegan culture it’s more of a compliment, or a term of endearment. It’s rather sweet, really.”

[NS]Bazalonia

23-02-2006, 11:56

"The Hobble Hound" by Nev Gould

I don't usually report on non-sporting events, but this was so bizarre, and it has sporting implications that there was no way I could not report on it. While Peter Hobble was still on the outer as a result of his bizarre behaviour during the match against the Milchamian Warriors. The team decided to go out for Dinner. Hobble was invited as well, when the meals came that was when the weirdness began. At first it started with what witnesses best described as 'dog-like' behaviour, as the exact details of such are blurry, We can't go into details, but it soon escallated into voilent behaviour, Hobble seemed to gain extra-human strength as he tossed tables aside, damaging the room, then run our into the night... people run out after him... but did not see him, or anyone else outside.
Significant damage was done to the establishment, and BFSA laywers are currently negotiating a settlement to ensure no legal procedings arise. In regards to this Peter Hobble has been stripped of his captaincy and removed from the Team Roster. The ASMV have given us a Name in ancient Vegan, Matsuij - Given by Fate. It seems whatever did happen in the restaraunt was fated to happen as well as the Bazalonian failure in this tournament.

Cuation

23-02-2006, 12:06

OC: Sorry about lack of rp, real life has made me very busy at the moment.

Cuation need 3 goal win to stay in

Well a recent press fight as cuased a media blackout in this tourney hosted by our great friends the Sea Dragons. Looking someout out of sorts, rumors are that the manager has been taken ill and thus the teams poor form. Was his drink spiked by Milchama? Or was it Bazalonia?

In the first match, the Cuation team struggled, letting in to soft goals to J.J. Faren. However in the second half, Cuation's fitness allowed them to pull themselves back, sub Rual Mendiz scoring twice.

Againt group winners Casari, Cuation battled but never looked like scoring. A goal by sub Jared Livingston was enough to plunge Cuation fans into despair.

Cuation need Casari to win and then they have to beat the bottom team Bazalonia by a bigger amount. Bazalonia may be in crsis but they will be tough to beat, let alone thrash. This is not a good start to our World Cup hopes, going out of a tourney like this.

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

23-02-2006, 18:08

Media Circus Affecting Play

"The crazy madhouse that is the media scene for the Draggonnii Inviyatii may be a factor in some of the matches." That statement was issued this morning by Danka Cherzin of the Media Relations Board. It seems the statemnet may hold more than a hint of truth. The media itself only seems to create a small distraction, but it is the fans in ASMV they have drawn in that becomes the sideshow distraction.

We will not pretend that the two losses by ASMV thus far were a result of anything but being outplayed by superior oponents. But other squads are obviously struggling with the madhouse.

Hypocria and Cuation draw a ton of publicity here, and therefore also draw the fans that want autographs and pictures more than the others. And Hypocria is really showing signs of being overwhelmed at times. Cuation also struggled with the fanfare in their last match as they failed to even come close to scoring.

Sarzonia and Starblaydia draw in people just wanting to catch glimpse of the #1 and #2 sides in the world. The Archregimancy has been swamped as well by ASMV fans who do not understand how anyone can play this game in robes.

Ariddia was swamped by fans after rumor that Ariddian players would be joining the Vegan Fuborii Liaga. Allowing NMS 7 goals was the result.

Wentland made a wrong turn based on directions froma fan that simply wished to see that team drive through his hometown. And even the struggling Bazalonia squad have been bombarded by fans who simply want to know what a Bazalope is.

All in all it has been a very entertaining tourney thus far, and should reamin so. Hope is to host this again before the next World Cup, so a successful tourney this time is very much in need.

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

23-02-2006, 20:19

MD3 Scores:

Voque Stadii
Sarzonia 1-3 NMS

Inferii Domei
ASMV 3-3 Ariddia

Group Eda
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 New Montreal States 3 3 0 0 12 4 8 9
2 Sarzonia 3 1 1 1 8 8 0 4
3 Ariddia 3 0 2 1 8 13 -5 2
4 Andossa Se Mitrin Vega 3 0 1 2 6 9 -3 1

Yumbo Jumbo Sports Complex
Starrblaydia 3-2 Schiavonia

Carrington Championship Arena
Wentland 2-3 Qutar

Group Graii
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Starblaydia 3 3 0 0 13 3 10 9
2 Schiavonia 3 2 0 1 7 5 2 6
3 The Islands of Qutar 3 1 0 2 5 11 -6 3
4 wentland 3 0 0 3 3 9 -6 0

Tapia Reis Civic Arena
Tadjikistan 3-1 The Archregimancy

Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse
Hypocria 3-2 The Kazoo Peoples

Group Takina
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 The Kazoo Peoples 3 2 0 1 5 4 1 6
2 Tadjikistan 3 2 0 1 5 3 2 6
3 The Archregimancy 3 1 0 2 4 6 -2 3
4 Hypocria 3 1 0 2 5 6 -1 3

Area Pana Arena
Casari 4-2 Milchama

Errion Vega Stadii
Cuation 2-2 Bazalonia

Group Qual
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Casari 3 3 0 0 10 2 8 9
2 Milchama 3 1 1 1 7 8 -1 4
3 Cuation 3 0 2 1 4 5 -1 2
4 Bazalonia 3 0 1 2 4 10 -6 1

MD4 Championship Bracket

NMS vs Tadjikistan - Errion Vega Stadii
Starblaydia vs Milchama - Carrington Championship Arena
The Kazoo Peoples vs Sarzonia - Inferi Domei
Casari vs Schiavonia - Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse

MD4 Consolation Bracket
Ariddia vs Hypocria - Tapia Reis Civic Arena
Qutar vs Bazalonia - Yumbo Jumbo Sports Complex
The Archregimancy vs ASMV - Arcea Pana Arena
Cuation vs Wentland - Voque Stadii

Hypocria

23-02-2006, 22:23

Takina. It’s The Magic Number

It was the third game in group three and three goals secured three points for a Hypocria side that has struggled for form recently. Danka Cherzin of the tournament’s Media Relations Board offered a possible explanation for the poor results of a number of teams, pointing to the huge amount of interest the Draggonni Inviyatii has raised in Andossa Se Mitrin Vega. The tournament has really sparked the interest of football fans from around the world and many matches have seen players swamped by hordes of excited autograph hunters. With a sizeable Hypocrian community living in ASMV the Hyppos have been firmly entrenched in the media circus.

Coach Zvonimir Roeder was very quick to agree with Mr Cherzin‘s analysis. “I’m delighted that we are being so well supported here but when you have fans clamouring for autographs and photos during training sessions as well as on matchdays it certainly doesn’t help preparation.”

But with the men in blue and white already condemned to the loser’s bracket they could take on the Kazoo Peoples on matchday 3 with nothing really to lose. And that showed as the Hyppos took all the points from an entertaining game at the Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse.

Striker Rafael Dudemal won over many of his critics with a “perfect” hattrick. He beat Jim Johnson with a well placed left footed shot thirteen minutes in and doubled the lead fifteen minutes later with a header from Baxter’s freekick. The Kazoo’s came roaring back in the second half, scoring two quick goals, but Dudemal sealed the win with an unstoppable right footed volley from Bercali’s cross from the left.

Sadly three points was not enough to avoid finishing bottom of the group but it feels a whole lot better than finishing with nothing.. The Kazoo’s stayed top despite the result and move into the Championship Bracket along with second placed Tadjikistan. The Archregimancy join the Hyppos amongst the dregs.

Up For The Cup?
Championship Bracket Preview

New Montreal States v Tadjikistan

The Paladins were one of three sides to come through the group stage with an 100% record. Even more impressive when you consider they were in a group with mighty Sarzonia, the hosts and World Cup founders Arridia. The Tigers started with a surprise defeat to the Kazoos but recovered well to finish second in their group. Tough one to call but expect NMS to edge it.

Starblaydia v Milchama

The Men in Mauve were in imperious form as they beat Schivonia, the Islands of Qutar and Wentland, scoring an impressive thirteen goals in the process. The Warriors managed just a single win from their group and will have to be at their battling best to stop the former world champions. Purple power all the way.

The Kazoo People’s v Sarzonia

Young will meet old at the Inferi Dome as the Kazoo’s take on another former world champ. The Stars looked fairly average in the group and against an opponent shamed by being beaten by the Hyppos they should win fairly comfortably.

Casari v Schiavonia

Casari are the third and final team with three wins to their name so far but face a tough test against a Sloth side that pushed Starblaydia all the way in their group. Flip a coin. This one’s too close to call.

Best Of The Rest?
Around The Loser’s Bracket

Ariddia v Hypocria

The men in red and black are without a win so far but still managed to finish in third place which is more than we accomplished. The two side have met just once before and that meeting occurred just a few short weeks ago at the Cup of Harmony. The Hyppos triumphed that day but this means nothing. We refuse to tip ourselves anymore so we kind of have to go for Ariddia.

The Islands of Qutar v Bazalonia

Two newcomers to the international arena will face off at the wonderfully named Yumbo Jumbo Sports Complex. The Islanders leaked eleven goals in the group, including six against the Purple Peril, while Bazalonia shipped a further ten. This one’s unlikely to finish goalless.

The Archregimancy v Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

The hosts are confronted with a horrible draw for their first game in the bracket with the mighty Monks of the Dreamed Realm standing in their way. The Sea Dragons are guaranteed fanatical support and they are going to need it against arguably the toughest team in the loser’s section.

Cuation v Wentland

The former Baptism of Fire winners Cuation didn’t really set Group Qual ablaze but will be looking to ignite against a Wentland side who have been something of a damp squib, without a single point to their name. Cuation are firm favourites for the win.

Starblaydia

23-02-2006, 23:34

Starblaydia Top Group Graii
Defensive concerns grow after Ibanez suspension

Ricardo Almeida will face the biggest test of his short international career when he wins his first starting cap against Milchama in the first game of the Championship Bracket. This, along with Schiavonia's two late, nerve-wracking goals stem from Francisco Ibanez's complete lack of a temper.

With Starblaydia 3-0 up with around twenty minutes to go, the last thing Ibanez needed was a contre-temps in his own area. That's a roundabout way of saying a 'punch-up', of course, one that was started just after he kicked the already bandaged and bruised Schiavonia striker Craig McAndrew in the back of the head. McAndrew had just tussled in the air with goalkeeper Mathias and defender Kouvas and as the trio fell to the ground Ibanez came in with a shin straight to the back of McAndrew's head.

Multiple pushing and shoving quickly ensued, with Starblaydi Captain Jaime Oberlander attempting to break up the fighting. Ibanez was shown a straight red while McAndrew received medical attention. Midfielder CJ Moore stepped up and stroked the penalty past Nicholas Mathias, and the Sloths woke up. Substitute Paolo Di Mascherenasi made it 3-2 with just five minutes to go later on, but Starblaydia just managed to hold out with 10 men under the Schiavone onslaught.

Thankfully Starblaydia had already breezed three goals past Kershaw in the seventy-five minutes leading up to Ibanez's early back. First it was left-back Markko Rakkinen who struck low into the far corner after yet more great work from Jade Matranga and the under-appreciated Georges Blanc in the middle. Jade Matranga herself bagged her first goal of the tournament as she broke the offside trap from a Blanc lob forward. Getting her toe to the ball before Karshaw's despairing lunge, that single touch was all that was required to see the ball bounce slowly over the line.

Dasha Tolkacheva made it 3-0 mid-way through the second half, scoring her 13th goal in 13 appearances to continue her amazing record. Someone nicknamed 'Dash' against a team nicknamed the 'Sloths' produced a rather-obvious result as she sprinted past first left-back Smith and then inside Mardsen to fire in off the near post past Kershaw's despairing hand.

Next up, now in the Championship Bracket, is Starblaydia's first ever match against Milchama. Ricardo Almeida will deputise at right-back for the suspended Ibanez, though the rest of the team will be remaining constant.

Final Score from Carrington Championship Arena:
Starblaydia 3 - 2 Schiavonia
(Rakkinen 24, Matranga 38, Tolkacheva 70) - (Moore 78 (pen), Di Mascherenasi 85)

Wentland

24-02-2006, 00:24

Bluff decided to please his critics and picked the World Cup first choice side for the Qutar game. So they lined up:

Derrington; Fletcher, Grosvenor, Jenkins, Fletcher; James, Ollis, Weston, Davies; Treves, Smith.

And Bluff smiled a grim smile of satisfaction as the supposed first choice team went 2-0 down by half-time.

So again he went for the three card monte at the break. Fletcher (R) off, Okey on. Ollis replaced by Capper. Kent for Davies. Move it around to play a more attacking 3-4-1-2 with Capper "in the hole" and Okey on the right wing.

And immediately it got better. Kent on the left and Okey on the right seemed to relish tearing at the Qutar defence. Both of them employing some wonderful trickery to send in dangerous crosses to Tiny Smith. Alas Smith had left his shooting boots and, um, heading head at home and he was having a mare. If only Hoppo had been playing...

In the end Okey and Kent took matters into their own hands. In the 58th Kent cut inside and shot from the corner of the box; just as the keeper thought he had it the ball swerved and dipped and it was 2-1. In the 63rd Okey was moved inside - not so good on his left foot, eh? - by the Qutar midfield...but he performed a 1-2 with Capper and despatched the return with aplomb. 2-2. Game proverbially on.

And the Swifts were pouring forward with abandon looking for a winner to salvage some pride. But pride goeth before destruction. Capper stretched for a ball that was 40-60 against him and he did not get up...he was stretchered off and there were no subs left to put on. 20 minutes with 10 men.

And it got worse. In a rare - but getting commoner - Qutar attack Derrington found himself back-pedalling from a chip and although he pushed the ball over the bar he landed very badly. He was knocked unconscious temporarily and was in no fit state to continue. 9 men, with comedy goalkeeper time...Smith took over in the green shirt, Bluff hoping his height would deal with crosses.

And it did. Unfortunately, he was susceptible to the daisy-cutter...and Qutar nailed one with just eight minutes to go.

Bluff re-jigged yet again. In an attempt to grab a point Smith swapped shirts with Jenkins and moved back up front, with Wentland playing a bizarre 2-3-3 formation and Jenkins sweeping from the goal. It came close to working, another Kent swerver this time finding Smith unmarked in front of goal, only for his header to strike the base of the post and bounce out to safety.

So a 3-2 defeat but at least some pride. Bluff was thoughtful as the Wentland team came off the pitch...Okey looked decent in the more advanced role...time for more experimentation against Cuation? Where is Voque anyway?

Ariddia

24-02-2006, 00:25

Once more unto Hypocria

Ariddia needed a win to retain any hopes of qualifying, but were not going to underestimate their Vegan opponents, the latter playing for honour’s sake as they had already been eliminated. With the football associations of both nations having recently developed closer ties, the atmosphere was a friendly one, but the competition was nonetheless fierce.

With Tim Wald suspended, and Sandrine Leduc having resigned, Seul was unable to field the usual starting eleven, James Fields and Ludovic Hue filling the slots for their missing team mates.

The game remained goalless throughout the first half, and seventeen minutes into the second, with both sides playing enthusiastically, attacking but making no major errors in defence. Then Frédéric Clément finally opened the score for his team, to cheers from the crowd.

Those cheers died down, drowned out by those of the home crowd, as the Vegans seemed to draw on some extra spurt of energy, and pushed into a 2-1 lead. That lead was 3-1 shortly after a substitution enabled young Hanifah Kyaw, soon to play for Vegan club Kelsey, to earn her first cap wearing the national colours. Well served by a skilful pass from Faraj, Kyaw boosted Ariddia’s hopes by scoring four minutes after having entered the pitch. She sent the ball sailing in again with just five minutes left on the clock, making it a draw for Ariddia. A good performance from both sides, though not enough to see either into the next round.

“The competition isn’t over, though,” Clément reminded journalists after the match. “We’ll be playing against other first round, erm, unfortunates. Luck of the draw has pitched us against Hypocria, which should be interesting.”

In their sole previous encounter, Hypocria denied Ariddia a place in the Cup of Harmony’s quarter finals, on penalty shoot-out. It was undoubtedly the most evenly matched game ever for the Rouge-et-Noirs, and many will be keen to see whether the team can beat Hypocria.

Asked whether Kyaw, whom many are already describing as a “revelation”, will be fielded against Hypocria, Seul has said only that he has not yet finalised the roster for that game. Meanwhile, having scored two goals in her first ever match, Kyaw has certainly roused the interest of a great many curious Ariddian fans.

New Montreal States

24-02-2006, 00:33

PALADINS SCORE MASSIVE UPSET

3-1 shocker over world leaders Sarzonia catapults Paladins into group stage

VOQUE STADII, ASMV - William Branstone held nothing back.

Previously reported to be planning to rest his starters with advancement secured, he instead decided to "not give up to these guys just because they're number one," he said before the match. "Look, no guarentees or anything, but we can't go out there and not give our best shot against these guys."

And so Gilles Villeneuve, apparently healthy despite the beatdown administered by Tim Wald in the previous match, trotted out on to the field, alongside keeper Paul Chasson and midfielders Jesse Miller and Jacques Toussaint, all of whom Branstone was supposedly considering resting for the tournament stage.

Branstone looked like a genius as the team took early control of the match, going up 2-0 in the first 30 minutes on goals by Villeneuve (his sixth of the qualifiers) and fellow forward Hubert Labranche. With midfield dominance established the Paladins had plenty of scoring opportunities, and a tenacious performance by Sarzonian keeper Harvey Cooley kept the Stars in the match.

Sarzonia began returning to worldbeating form at the top of the second half, driving a tired-looking Paladins side back into their territory. Kevin Wilson picked up a goal at 62 minutes, and the Stars seemed ready to sweep the Paladins back into the second tier where they belong when Villeneuve came to the rescue in what will go down as one of the great moments in NMS football history.

Chasson made a save on a Brad Linsky shot and kicked it downfield to Villeneuve, who then dribbled right through one of the world's finest backfields to convert past Cooley to restore a 2-goal lead to the Paladins. Branstone put ten in the box for the last fifteen minutes, and the score held. The small but noisy contingent of NMS fans who made the trek to ASMV stormed the field to celebrate with the team a win that "does for the second coming of NMS football what the Bedistan win did for the first," in the words of Chief Paladin Frog, watching the match from his palace in central New Montreal.

And the reward for running a difficult table into the playoff round? Tadjikistan. None of our previous three meetings against the Tigers have been anywhere near close. This could be a very short victory parade for the Paladins. Elsewhere, fellow WC27 propective hosts The Archregimancy have been relegated to the consolation bracket, there to face the fairly difficult challenge posed by the host Sea Dragons. Sarzonia advanced after a draw by Arridia against ASMV, and will face newcomers The Kazoo Peoples.

Elsewhere, international rivals Milchama advanced into the playoff stage, there to face the Men in Mauve in what should be an interesting match.

[NS]Bazalonia

24-02-2006, 00:45

"Fan Surge Helps win Draw" by Nev Gould

An un-expected surge of ASMV Soccer Fans decended on the Bazalopes, most wanting to know what is a Bazalope, one of the team just happened to have a Bazalope plushie with them and gave that to one of the fans. This un-usual occurance seemed to help the Bazalopes the next match. This match, resulted in a draw for the Bazalopes. Against Cuation 1-1 all draw. The Bazalope goal was Scored by Michael Kantwell in the 20th minute, putting the Bazalopes up 1-0, it was not long before the Cuation team managed to equalise and the game became a stalemate as neither side had much petrol left in their tanks.

Peter Hobble has still not been seen and a solid quiet acheiving Benjamin "Benny Boy" Peters had been named as a replacement Captain. I had managed to get into contact with the Hobble clan and Peter's father Harold had this to say "We are all stunded at out Pete's actions, that is totally unlike him. We don't know whats happened.. and, well he has not contacted us either." I managed to get some information on Passenger flights from ASMV to Bazalonia and there is no record of Peter leaving ASMV, let alone arriving in Bazalonia, maybe he is still here? Who knows. I have heard suggestions from the more superstitious that Peter might have been turned into a Werewolf, the fact that the incident happened during the full moon was probably what sparked this rumor. No matter what did happen to change Peter Hobble, so much the Bazalopes will be returning back to Bazalonia 1 player short.

The Kazoo Peoples

24-02-2006, 04:46

"I decided to let most of our more experienced players play today, allowing the starters to gain some rest, and giving our backups time in the spotlight," said Kazoo Coach Manni Aka before the game.

But it was most likely a costly mistake.

Despite allowing goalkeeper Jim Johnson to play, the Kazoos were simply outplayed, dropping the match to last-place Hypocria 3-2. Striker Rafael Dudemal put three past Johnson (13, 28, 70), and claimed a "hat trick."

"I didn't really care, to be honest," a sweaty Jim Johnson said after the game. "We're in the championship bracket, and to be honest, I didn't really care how many goals I allowed."

Hypocria, though allowing a quick surge of offense to knot the score at 2 at minute 52, came out with the win after many of the backups, were, for lack of a better word, exhausted. The two quick scores (Stingray 49, Mertime 52) were just not enough.

After the match, all eyes in the Kazoo locker room were glued to a television screen which was playing a match between New Montreal States and Sarzonia. The winner would face off against second-place Tadjikistan, whilst the loser would face the Kazoos in the knockout round.

"Not Sarzonia, not Sarzonia, not Sarzonia," the coach softly chanted. As the final score ended up 3-1 in favor of New Montreal States, swearing was widespread.

If you do not recall why the Coach did not want to face Sarzonia, here are some reasons why:

1. World Cup 26 Draw. Kazoos placed with Sarzonia in Group H. Sarzonia demolishes Kazoos in their match 2-0.
2. KPB Rankings. Sarzonia sits firmly upon the top of the standings, the best in the world. Not a good sign for #42-ranked Kazoos.

"Well, we've improved in the past year, and we hope to take Sarzonia on, and take home a win. Such a win could give us the momentum to win the whole tourney," said Aka.

The Kazoos play the Stars at Inferi Domei tomorrow.

Learn Ancient Vegan -- Impress your friends, family, and potential girlfriend!

Lusai - Goal. Whenever your favorite Kazoo player scores a goal, yell "LUU-SSAIIII!" Much more fun, right? We thought so.

Group Takina
Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 The Kazoo Peoples 3 2 0 1 5 4 1 6
2 Tadjikistan 3 2 0 1 5 3 2 6
3 The Archregimancy 3 1 0 2 4 6 -2 3
4 Hypocria 3 1 0 2 5 6 -1 3

Progress In Draggonnii Inviyatii:
Group Stage (2-0-1):
MD1: win over Tadjikistan 1-0
MD2: win over The Archregimancy 2-1
MD3: loss to Hypocria 3-2
---
Championship Bracket:
MD4: vs Sarzonia

Milchama

24-02-2006, 05:26

Chi Alexandria Brooklin Milchama City New Babylon New Sparta Tel Morlin Post- Times- Constitution- Globe- Sun- Journal- News- Telegram- Update- Scribe- Register

Sports Section

Milchama to play Starblaydia

Why Why Why????? was the chant going around Milchama today as the draw revealed that the Warriors would have to play the Men in Mauve in their first outround of the Draggonii Invitational. So far in international soccer outrounds the Warriors have had horrible facing the likes of Fmjphoenix, Chicanada (ranked 6), the Archregimancy, and now Starblaydia. Coach Jamie Smith said, "I have to admit that after looking thru the history of Milchama we seem to get horrible draws once elimination rounds start. The teams we face tend to be higher than us and I just don't understand how this seems to happen every time. Hopefully this'll change soon." Now onto a quick Match Report:

The Warriors came out in a good mood and like the entire tournament the game started well as they scored two goals in the first half. The first goal was scored by Marc J. Floren while the second was scored by Floren Albentine who was starting for Spot Nielson. The Warriors did give up a goal in the first half as Ronalo made a nice move past the central defence to put the Warriors up 2-1 at halftime. This time though the Warriors could not hold their lead as they allowed 3 goals in the second half. Another goal by Ronalo came in the 58th minute and 7 minutes later the stalemate was broken by Livingston. Livingston would score another in the 84th to make it 4-2 Casari with the win. Now that brings to our second round tie with Starblaydia. Gulp!

According to Coach Smith we shall use our normal starting not the odd basterdized thing we have been using during the group stage. That means that the Warriors are going 100% for this match but it still does not good for them as their form this tournament has not been great and they have not fared well against higher seeded competition when they play them the first time. This all bodes bad for the Warriors espiecially with Starblaydia's flawless record in the group stage as they swept thru their group scoring 13 goals and only conceding three. The one piece of good news for the Warriors is that the Starblaydians did give up two goals their last game against our co hosts of the CoH Schiavonia and their starting right back is not playing for our game. However this will probably not be enough for us which is unfortunate. Well I think we shall have better luck next Draggonii Invitational.

Onto the other games (that matter)

NMS vs Tadjikistan
Tadjikistan is very good at soccer while NMS still seems to be working out kinks despite qualifying for the last two WCs. They might also be distracted by their hosting attempt. Tadjiks walk out victorious 3-1.

Starblaydia vs Milchama
Its not looking good.

The Kazoo Peoples vs Sarzonia
They already played once in the WC group stage Sarzonia probably walked out winners (we didn't check our facts so don't count that that is correct) and we should expect the same result here. Sarzonia 3-2 Kazoo Peoples.

Casari vs Schiavonia
The Casarans swept thru their group while Schiavonia's only loss came to the Starblaydians. Considering Schiavonia already lost to one of their undeafeated opponents expect the same here as they fall in a close one 2-1.

Wentland

24-02-2006, 09:05

The Wentland newspapers were scathing about the news from camp, about the team that Bluff was planning to play against Cuation. The words "lost" and "plot" were fairly common.

Only the Daily Watchman sounded a note of dissent, thinking that the planned line up was part of some plot.

The planned line up appeared to have young Tracey in goal, with a 3-4-3 formation ahead of him.

Moon, Jenkins and Grosvenor across the back.

Midfield of James, Capper, Weston and Davies.

And up front Treves in the middle, but with wingers either side, Kent on the left...and Okey on the right.

This looked very, very odd. A full-back up front? Wingers with no recognized centre-forward?

The Watchman had an idea what was going on. "Okey looked positively dangerous in the game against Qutar," it opined. "We know he has one of the most accurate shots around and has scored dozens of free-kicks and penalties. He is notoriously unreliable and something of a show pony. But perhaps he is not being used as an out-and-out winger and more as a proper forward.

"Bluff seems to be pitching for a plus 2 modifier."

Bluff did not really care about the result, he wanted to try something different, blood some of the youngsters and hold his fire for the next World Cup. He only hoped that would gain some understanding back home.

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

24-02-2006, 18:17

The Draggonnii Inviyatii has reached the bracket stages after a very exciting and well played group stage. Some surprises did occur and world #1 Sarzonia struggled through what NMS called the toughest of the groupings. The Kazoo Peoples showed great poise as the moved through a group that also included Hypocria, The Archregimancy, and Tadjikistan. Starblaydia looked in top form as the squad to beat thus far, but Casari and NMS were right on there heels.But when you reach the later rounds of any tourney, experience shines through, so squads like Tadjikistan and Sarzonia can not be counted out.

Some confusion has surfaced concerning the bracket portion of the tourney. Every squad here is guaranteed six matches. This means that a loss in the bracket first round will not eliminate a squad from play. It simply shifts them into a lower placement bracket in the next round. Those who have made the Championship bracket will compete for final positions 1-8, while the Consolation Bracket will decide positions 9-16.

In other news, An official announcement concerning the translation of Starblaydia into modern Vegan has been made. Kalonii Se Vega - The Sword of the Star.

Starblaydia

24-02-2006, 20:23

"We be guaranteed six matches?" Khim scratched his beard. "But there's seven other teams in our group? What be going on, laddies?"

"The four winning teams in this first day of Championship Bracket play will then go on to play each other," Dasha piped up, "then the two winners from those games will play each other, and the winner of that game will, um, win. Coach."

Azanulbizarn looked up and eyed her sharply.

"Lassie, ye be a great striker fer me, ye be a model and now some kind of statisical analyst. What cannae ye do, sing? Dance? Can ye swing a good axe?"

"I never tried, coach."

"Good!" Azanulbizarn jumped off his stool and pointed at the rest of the squad. "See, laddies? She isn'ae perfect! She cannae swing a good axe like a old-fashioned honest Dwarven lass, let that be a lesson t'ye all."

Jaime Oberlander, standing next to the whiteboard with pen in hand, blinked a few times then turned back to his team briefing.

"Right," he continued after his coach's sudden outburst, "Blancy, you're on Copperlee. Don't leave him with an inch of room, white on bread and all that. Me and Kouvy will take care of Floren..."

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

24-02-2006, 20:53

MD4 Results

Draggonnii Inviyatii Championship Bracket Rd 1

Eriion Vega Stadii
New Montreal States 1-2 Tadjikistan

Carrington Championship Arena
Starblaydia 3-0 Milchama

Inferi Domei
The Kazoo Peoples 0-4 Sarzonia

Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse
Casari 2-0 Schiavonia

MD5 Schedule

Tadjikistan vs Starblaydia - Tapia Reis Civic Arena
Casari vs Sarzonia - Yumbo Jumbo Sports Complex

New Montreal States vs Milchama - Arcea Pana Arena
The Kazoo Peoples vs Schiavonia - Voque Stadii

Draggonnii Inviyatii Consolation Bracket Rd 1

Tapia Reis Civiv Arena
Ariddia 2-1 Hypocria

Yumbo Jumbo Sports Complex
The Isalnds of Qutar 2-0 Bazalonia

Arcea Pana Arena
The Archregimancy 4-1 ASMV

Voque Stadii
Wentland 1-0 Cuation

MD5 Scedule

Ariddia vs The Islands of Qutar - Errion Vega Stadii
The Archregimancy vs Wentland - Carrington Championship Arena

Hypocria vs Bazalonia - Inferi Domei
ASMV vs Cuation - Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse.

Sarzonia

24-02-2006, 21:00

Stars snap out of it, 4-0

So much for the Stars looking like a third rate side.

Sarzonia played by far its best match of the Daggonni Inviyatii pre-World Cup showcase by throttling The Kazoo Peoples 4-0 in a rematch of Sarzonia's last win in World Cup play. This time, the Stars dominated every facet of the match and were able to finish behind Kevin Wilson's two goals and one assist and goals from Jenna Raven and Kenny Cooper.

"We finally played the game we were expecting to play," Coach Dave Wilson said. "This wasn't the same team that struggled against New Montreal States. This was more like the team that won the AOCAF tournament."

The Sarzonia team (2-1-1) that won the AOCAF tournament did so by having only a 2-2 draw against old nemesis Legalese blemish an unbeaten run through to the title. The Stars there even defeated rivals Starblaydia in AOCAF play for the first time courtesy of a dramatic late game goal for Brian Williams.

Sarzonia's reward for their win over The Kazoo Peoples is a semifinals matchup with Casari, a team Sarzonia is already wary of from playing them in World Cup qualifying.

"They're going to be a team we're going to have to pull out all the stops against to win," Raven said. "We're not going to take anyone lightly after what happened against New Montreal States."

Cuation

24-02-2006, 21:07

Cuation Wet Draw

After a 2-2 draw, Cuation have been drawn into the "worsst teams of the cup play off" round. Cuation will have lots of fans with them but with the manager still sick, I can't see it changing.

Bazalonia press claimed it to be a 1-1 draw but after Micehal Kantwell and Peter Tanner exchanged early goals, Cuation fell 2-1 behind. A last minute goal by Rual Mendiz saved Cuation from humliation. The news that a win would have sent Cuation into the best section compounded the misery.

Playing a poor and in dissaray Wentland team gives hope for a first win in four games. Changed to a 4-4-2 formation, the team reads:

Seamen: Cole-Butcher-Yan-Hargreves: Ashton-Milnar-Samba-Ferguson: Tanner-Mendiz.

OC: Well done Wentland.

Starblaydia

24-02-2006, 21:54

Tigers To Be Mauled
Starblaydia Vs Sarzonia in Final?

Starblaydia's defensive worries were cast aside as they went to town on Milchama's Warriors, smashing three past them in a 3-0 win. Starblaydia's attacking MFF threesome got themselves each on the scoresheet, though it took Dasha Tolkacheva until six minutes from time as her new club strike-partner, Raphaelo, came on for Roberto Vega with fifteen minutes to go.

Raff and Dash, as they've instantly become known, form an excellent partnership in the long tradition of Starblaydi strike forces. Raphaelo has the experience, the touch and the vision to play slightly deeper and infield while Tolkacheva's speed, agility and movement make her the perfect foil for Raphaelo's play. This was proved within ten minutes of their first in-game appearance with one another, proving that Iskara Daii's scouts surely know their business well.

Jade Matranga had got her shooting boots on inside a quarter of an hour as she fired in from well outside the box and beat Finton's fingertips to the ball. By the end of the second half Starblaydia were already 2-0 up as Vega bagged his fourth of the Cup, his sixth goal overall for Starblaydia. Dasha, however, wasn't to be outdone and snagged her fifth for the Invitational, already her 14th goal for Starblaydia.

Considering that the 'benchmark' for Starblaydi strikers was set some 40 years ago by former player and national manager Nikola "Laser" Lazerevski, only nine other men have managed to match the tally of 15 for their country. Dasha, only 23, has 14 goals already to her name. As does, for a matter of fact, the 29 year-old Raphaelo.

Both of them could quickly join the 15+ club, which currently includes: Nikola Lazerevski (15), Simeone Di Bradini (44), Eomer Hall (21), Jakkinho (18), Tetsuo Naoki (17), Darius Belizaire (20), Syku Lyku-Agbayani (20), Zhorin Tumunzahar (44), Giovanni Lopez (15) and Menecrates (18). Raphaelo surely will be the eleventh man, but Dasha will be the first woman, an incredible acheivement for one so young.

Next up for Starblaydia is a 'Semi-Final' match against Tadjikistan, the only team to beat Starblaydia (twice, in fact) during their Championship-winning World Cup 25 Qualifying Campaign. Though Nova Britannicus also managed it in their last-ever international match in the Finals' Group Stage, the Tigers have steadfastly gone about their business in a workmanlike style, qualifying from Group 3 without any major mishaps except for a 1-0 slip-up to the Kazoo Peoples, who were thrashed soundly 4-0 by Sarzonia today at Inferi Domei. Sarzonia have, for once, been talking about Starblaydia more than is strictly necessary.

"They keep mentioning their win over us i nthe AOCAF in interviews and such, as well as their reporters yelling it from the rooftops all night and day," said 'Iban the Terrible' - 'Cisco Ibanez - "they must be trying to wind us up or something. Me? Wound up? With my reputation? Are they quite mad? Ah-hahaha..."

'Cisco never misses a trick, it seems. He tends not to miss people's shins and knees with his feet, nor their chins with his fists and elbows, either. Ut-oh.

Final Score from Carrington Championship Arena:
Starblaydia 3 - 0 Milchama
(Matranga 12, Vega 37, Tolkacheva 84) - (None)

Wentland

24-02-2006, 22:49

The Watchman was the only one of the Wentland newspapers with anything to crow about following the first match in the Consolation Groups. "Well, we were throwing Cuation to the Went," it grinned through the leader columns.

The odd line-up seemed to work fine...after a fashion. Cole and Hargreaves were at sixes and sevens trying to cope with the wingplay of Kent and Okey, let alone Davies and James. But there was a distinct lack of cutting edge as Treves received a knock early on. Trying to play it off was a mistake as he broke down completely just on half-time and Tiny Smith was given another chance at centre-forward.

Fortunately Smith rediscovered his touch and with four players feeding him crosses he had half-a-dozen headed chances, unfortunately coming up against an in-form Seamen in goal. Save after save was made, and with Cuation hitting on the break there was a distinct risk of a seventh consecutive defeat at international level.

However, with just seven minutes to go, Seamen was finally beaten. No blame can be attributed to him; a free-kick on the left was sent in by Cosmo Kent, Smith powered a header down to the keeper's left, he palmed it out...straight to a lurking Okey who blasted the ball into the roof of the net in sheer relief. The net threw the ball back out, as if cursing the impertinence of the Swifts in breaching its post fortresses, but it stood. One-nil.

Cuation belatedly threw men forward to sneak an equalizer but Bluff had almost a seven-man defence, with Okey and Kent ready to break themselves at any moment. Indeed had Okey been paying attention in injury-time he would have had himself a second, but he seemed to be indulging himself in ornithology and an easy ball went bouncing past him towards the Cuation touchline.

After four minutes of added time the whistle brought Wentland their first victory since the emotional destruction of Harlesburg in WC qualifying...perhaps Bluff is indeed on to something?

New Montreal States

24-02-2006, 23:12

PALADINS LOSE TO TIGERS AGAIN

Bleah.

ERRION VEGA STADII - The Paladins lost to Tadjikistan. Again. No surprises, really, since we can't beat these guys ever. We're getting really, really sick of this, to be honest, so we're just going to talk about our next match against Milchama instead.

We don't really like them. They had riots in WC26 in which our citizens were targeted. That was going over the line, really. I mean, there's a friendly rivalry, like the one we had beforehand, and then there's, like, rioting. So hopefully we'll beat these guys and get even. Somewhat.

[NS]Bazalonia

25-02-2006, 04:21

"Hobble's disappearance hurts" by Nev Gould

Peter Hobble is still no where to be seen, and this has significantly hurt the Bazalopes, falling 2-0 to Islands of Qutar, fellow groupmate in the Bazalopes Baptism of Fire and the team that knocked them out of the Tournament. Without the star striker and no chance come up with new plays, the Bazalope forwards had no idea what to do and never even looked like scoring a goal, where the Bazalope defense, faired better. They prevented a number of chances from the Qutari team but still let 2 goals in. The Qutari team scored some very good goals in the 23rd and 51st minutes of the match. Strange un-confirmed reports of a wolf hanging around the Yumbo Jumbo Sports Complex have been made, also it seems some of the players have also seen a wolf hanging around their hotel. Some superstitious members of the team are starting to think that the wolf is Hobble, though I think that is a load of Hogswash. The fact remains that without Hobble there is a big hole left in the team, and no one but Hobble can fill it.

Casari

25-02-2006, 04:55

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b20/Casari/4sport.png

2-0 Win over Schiavonia puts Tigers up against Sarzonia
It's been a good tournemenl

A 2 goal shutout win over Schiavona yesterday now has Casari facing one of the top teams in the world, Sarzonia.

"This has been a good warmup for World Cup Qualifying, and our upcoming against Sarzonia will be a test to see how we can match up with the top nations in the world and continue moving up, or are going to stall out as a second-tier contender." Manager Hill said.

The Kazoo Peoples

25-02-2006, 06:55

"I don't want to talk about it," said Coach Manni Aka after he came of the field, fresh off a 4-0 whomping by #1 Sarzonia.

Match highlights? Well, we could say that the best highlight is when the Kazoos walked off the field. It was just that bad.

Due to the nature of the tournament, the Kazoos (though downtrodden) can still claim as high as fifth place in the tournament. We asked local crazy person Donald McRonald to explain:

Donald McRonald motioned to a diagram...:

1E New Montreal States_
A|_Tadjikistan___
2T Tadjikistan_________| |
E|________
1G Starblaydia_________ | |
B|_Starblaydia___| |
2Q Milchama____________| |
(2nd)|________
1T The Kazoo Peoples___ |CHAMPION
C|_Sarzonia______ |
2E Sarzonia____________| | |
F|________|
1Q Casari______________ |
D|_Casari________|
2G Schiavonia__________|

Loser A New Montreal States_
1|_____
Loser B Milchama____________| |
(6th)|_________(5th)
Loser C The Kazoo Peoples___ |
2|_____|
Loser D Schiavonia__________|

Loser E __________
(4th)|__________(3rd)
Loser F __________|

Loser 1 __________
(8th)|__________(7th)
Loser 2 __________|

"You see, for the rankings bracket, they want to make sure that everyone knows their place in this tournamnet. Here's how it goes: if we win two games, one over Schiavonia, the other either Milchama or New Montreal States (whichever wins), we grab fifth. We grab sixth if we lose to NMS or Milchama. We go to a playoff for seventh and eighth if we lose to Schiavonia. We will play the loser of NMS and Milchama, trying to save our dignity and not getting last in the championship bracket."

The Kazoos' next match is against Schiavonia at Voque Stadii. If you recall, in World Cup 26, we faced them at home for a friendly. We promptly lost to them 2-0.

"We hope to make our overall record with them .500 after our match tomorrow," said Aka.

Progress In Draggonnii Inviyatii:
Group Stage (2-0-1):
MD1: win over Tadjikistan 1-0
MD2: win over The Archregimancy 2-1
MD3: loss to Hypocria 3-2
---
Championship Bracket:
MD4: loss to Sarzonia 4-0
Ranking Bracket:
MD5: vs Schiavonia
MD6: vs New Montreal States-Milchama

Wentland

25-02-2006, 09:29

"So, we've run out of pennants for the pre-match exchange?"

"Not really, we're just a bit concerned that it would not be deemed appropriate for the Archregimancy. The upright infinity symbol is somewhat unorthodox. And we're not sure of their stance on graven images."

"How about flowers then?"

"No, that looks insulting."

"Finest Waterton chocolates?"

"I do not know if they appreciate the finer arts of chocolate making. Plus they may be seen as a bit sinful."

"Well, I heard a rumour...no, nothing."

"What's that?"

"Well, you know they only allow sacred music?"

"Mm-hm?"

"Apparently the Archregimand is a fan of...um...The Magnificent Five."

"And?"

"Well, we could hand over a ticket to one of their concerts."

"Ummmmmmmmm...can you really see the Archregimand doing the Magnificent Dance? They'd have to rename their song "Bishop Darling"."

The WFA committee members suddenly suffered an attack of the giggles. The idea was appalling, but somehow appealing...

Tadjikistan

25-02-2006, 13:07

Eating a Paladin
By Simon Grinchik, part time sportsjournalist

The Tadjikistan Tigers met the New Montreal States during one of the Qualification runs for the World Cup and beat them twice. At that time our coach blamed it one their use of students in their team but this time there was little excuse for the Paladins. They no longer use schools to provide players and have chosen professionals instead and even these could not defeat the Tigers during the WC25 group stage (3-1 in the Tigers favor)

This time it was a little different, the Tigers have a new coach, Khumdin Sharipov who is still unexperienced in the area of international football. And even though he gets help from the Sadirov brothers, his victories so far have been small, usually winning with only one goal.

"winning is a winning, who cares about the rest" was Daniel Gurchevs response and indeed none of the fans cared about the result or that one early goal by Gilles Villeneuve. The only things that mattered were Oleg Salenko's header from a corner shot by Skoropadski and Saradovs high shot that deflected of the top bar into the Montreal box.

Bahrom Sadirov, defended Sharipov "Maybe the Paladins did play a good match and we won only because we got lucky. Why does everyone always point at the coach, even when he wins a match?" I dont know, because its easy to call him bad? So maybe Bahrom is right and we should give Sharipov the benefit of the doubt until after the next match against Starblaydia.

Fixtures:
MD1: Tadjikistan - The Kazoo Peoples L 0-1
MD2: Hypocria - Tadjikistan W 1-2
MD3: Tadjikistan - The Archregimancy W 3-1
MD4: New Montreal States - Tadjikistan W 1-2

Ariddia

25-02-2006, 16:14

Levelling the score

It was one of the most awaited matches ever for the Rouge-et-Noirs, even though it was only to try and top the “consolation bracket”. Having narrowly been defeated by Hypocria in the second round of the Cup of Harmony, on penalty shoot-outs, the Ariddians were keen to find out whether they could inverse that record and snatch a belated victory.

The match began in exciting fashion, with opportunities on both sides. Faraj weaved adroitly through Hypocria’s defences in the eleventh minute, for a powerful shot which bounced off the crossbar. And, when a foul by Gredenko in the twenty-third minute led to a penalty kick for Ariddia, Hypocrian keeper Lomaia made a remarkable save to Clément’s shot, keeping the score at nil all.

With no intention to be relegated to defensive playing, Hypocria counter-attacked, but their well thought-out opening goal in the twenty-eighth minute was disallowed due to an offside. Nine minutes later, Dudamel had Hue defeated, and only al Jahdali’s quick reflexes in defence prevented the opening goal from being Hypocrian. And, when Faraj finally opened the score in the fifty-seventh minute, Rytter retaliated with an equaliser four minutes later. The final goal came after Kyaw was brought in for the last twenty minutes of the match, and promptly scored with a head shot, served by a corner kick from Ja. The latter, like Song, was playing his first ever game in red and black, while Kyaw was celebrating her second cap. . . and her third goal for her country. Ariddia had proven itself, as the final whistle blew and the Rouge-et-Noirs shook hands with the skilled adversaries who had, for the second time, pushed them into a very difficult match.

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

25-02-2006, 21:19

MD 5 Scores

Championship Bracket Rd2

Tapia Reis Civic Arena
Tadjikistan 4-0 Starblaydia

Yumbo Jumbo Sports Complex
Casari 0-2 Sarzonia

Arcea Pana Arena
New Montreal States 3-1 Milchama

Voque Stadii
Schiavonia 3-3 The Kazoo Peoples (Schiavonia advances 3-2 on penalties)

MD6 Schedule
Championship Match - Errion Vega Stadii
Tadjikistan vs Sarzonia

3rd Place Match - Carrington Championship Arena
Starblaydia vs Casari

5th Place Match - Yumbo Jumbo Sports Complex
New Montreal States vs Schiavonia

7th Place Match - Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse
Milchama vs The Kazoo Peoples

Consolation Bracket Rd2

Errion Vega Stadii
Ariddia 0-2 The Islands of Qutar

Carrington Championship Arena
The Archregimancy 3-1 Wentland

Inferi Domei
Hypocria 4-3 Bazalonia

Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse
ASMV 1-4 Cuation

MD6 Schedule
9th Place Match - Inferi Domei
The Islands of Qutar vs The Archregimancy

11th Place Match - Voque Stadii
Ariddia vs Wentland

13th Place Match - Tapia Reis Civic Arena
Hypocria vs Cuation

Dead Last Match - Arcea Pana Arena
Bazalonia vs ASMV

Starblaydia

25-02-2006, 22:15

Tigers and Tigers and Tigers, oh my!
Starblaydia left wondering what the hell happened

That was never a 4-0 game, never. Sure, the Tigers deserved a win, maybe a 2-0 or 3-1, but 4-0 flattered the Tadjiks. The difference in class wasn't obvious, despite the self-proclaimed "best team in the history of Tadjikistan" versus a young and experimental Starblaydi team.

Twenty tense minutes saw Tadjikistan edge it in the midfield while the Starblaydi defence held firm, but finally the Tigers broke through with a goal from striker Saradov. As Starblaydia got the kick up the backside they needed to surge forward, Tadjikistan broke quickly and slotted a second. Starblaydia seemed deflated by Salenko's strike but still tried to fight back before half time. Vega went close with a drilled shot, and Tolkacheva's close-in effort from a Noble cross was well blocked by goalkeeper Gurchev in a period when Starblaydia dominated.

But, as often happens, the Tigers went up the other end and stole a goal with their first attempt in over 15 minutes. Saradov again, this time from a corner, stole in unmarked to nod the ball past Mathias. 3-0 down at half time and Starblaydia were reeling. On came Menecrates and Cherry Garcia, two World Cup Winners, to bolster the attack. The ineffective Chavez was also later substituted for Alberto Belmozzi, who came on and played as a striker, as his genes suggested.

With seemingly the entire Starblaydi team encamped around the Tadjik penalty area, it just needed someone speedy to break for a one-on-one with the Starblaydi keeper. Young Zyrianov was that particular man, sprinting through and rounding Nicholas Mathias with consumate ease.

Starblaydia play Casari in the 3rd-Place Play-off match in the Carrington Championship Arena, somewhere Starblaydia have been quite at-home so far. We expected a victory here today, so nothing is certain against Casari, who Starblaydia have defeated in the past two World Cups proper, 2-1 and 3-0.

Final Score from Tapia Reis Civic Arena:
Tadjikistan 4 - 0 Starblaydia
(Saradov 23 & 44, Salenko 27, Zyrianov 71) - (None)

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

26-02-2006, 01:21

Sea Dragons Look More Like Guppies In Loss

The Sea Dragons took the field against what has been their greatest friends since they met in the WC25 BoF. All signs pointed to what should have been a very close game.

Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse was filled beyond capacity with screaming fans wanting autographs, pictures, and just a chance to meet their favorite players from both sides. And to everyone's surprise, even Evan Evans flew in for the game, as the first squad waited to coninue play in the CoH. Much to the fan's delight, both he sat right behind the Cuation net so that he could yell friendly insults at keeper Gary Jens.

All of that was for naught as the Cuation squad dominated ASMV’s B squad 4-1. The loss relegates the Sea Dragons to Dead Last Match against newcomer Bazalonia. The Bazalopes have had little luck here, but they did manage a draw against Cuation. That does not bode well for us. Add to that inspired play from Bazalonia as they gave Hypocria all they could handle, and the Sea Dragons could well finish at the bottom of their own tourney.

Now to check out the final matches:

Tadjikistan and Sarzonia both stuggled through the group stage and backed into the Championship Bracket. Now both sides have found their usual form and raced into the title game for the right to lift the Draggonnii Arcea Tropia. The Tigers amazed everyone with a thrashing of Starblaydia and now look like the team to beat.

Up until their semi-final matches, Casari and Starblaydia looked like the class of the tourney. Starblaydia had not even seen a close match. Now the two sides will face off for what will be a disappointing third place finish. Expect Starblaydia to dominate after being embarrassed by Tadjikistan

NMS looked to be in top form as they dominated a group that included Sarzonia, Ariddia, and ASMV. That all fell apart in the Championship Bracket. Now they must face a talented Sciavonia squad who has no intention of handing NMS 5th place here. Too close to call in this one.

The Kazoo Peoples were the biggest surprise of the group stage. They easily handled a group that included Tadjikistan, The Archregimancy, and Hypocria. Inexperience has caught up with them in the Championship Bracket though, and now they must face Milchama for 7th place. Milchama has been inconsistent at best, so look for the Kazoos to take this one.

The Islands of Qutar play The Archregimancy for the top of the loser’s bracket - 9th place. The monks have had a rough go of it, but you can bet they will take this one.

Ariddia faces Wentland in what should be a great match for 11th place. If they can keep the crowd from bothering them too much in looking for autographs, Ariddia should be able to come away with a win.

Even though it is only for a lowly 13th place finish, expect the match between Hypocria and Cuation to be the most talked about and anticipated match of this tourney. The fans here dearly love both sides and it should be quite the circus as they take the field. This is yet another match I refuse to predict.

And lastly, the sea Dragons face the Bazalopes to see who is the worst team here. Perhaps worst is too harsh. Unluckiest probably will describe it much better. Given our string of luck in our own tourney, look for a 7-0 win for the Bazalopes.

Casari

26-02-2006, 03:35

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b20/Casari/4sport.png

Yeah, we lost to Sarzonia.
Isn't it a shock?

A pretty predictable 2-0 loss to Sarzonia today has Casari headed to the 3rd-place match with some pretty predictable opponents.

Yup, Them.

Starblaydia, our favorite dictatorship who we've recently moved close enough to fling a missle at, will be looking for some kind of redemption after losing to another group of Tigers.

In their WC-championship run in WC25, we met in the round of 16, and lost. Last WC we met in the group stage. We lost then too.

Notably enough, noone's holding out much hope for this tournement either. "We always will have the outside chance, to be sure... but Starblaydia's had our number in the past."

Another notable fact is that this will sadly be the final international match for Casari's top-level striker, Andy Ronalo. After leading the team through three full World Cup Qualifying groups, a Cup of Harmony final, and two forays into the World Cup Finals.

"It's sad to see him go. He's been capped in every Casaran International match and has definately carried the team on his back through several tough matches." Ronalo's partner up front, Ari Saienz, said to the press. "It's going to be sad to see him go."

When asked about his impending retirement, Ronalo only said, "We were a pretty young bunch when they rounded us up and sent us off to our first World Cup. I'd love to stay, but I can't keep up like I used to."

Ronalo's upcoming retirement is seen by many as an opening for some of Casari's younger strikers, including Jared Livingston, who plays Club Football for the Fedala Imperials in the Second Empire.

"Hopefully, we can send him off with a win," said Coach Hill.

The Kazoo Peoples

26-02-2006, 03:43

Another day, another loss.

The Kazoos continued their downward spiral, as they dropped a game (which they seeming had control of) on penalties. The game was 3-3 after extra time, but penalty shots had the Kazoos fall short 3-2.

The first half seemed to be all Kazoos, as they scored two goals (Chadd Johnson, 17; Lampshade, 32) and possessed the ball 37 minutes of the 45 minutes. Schiavonia had only 7 shots in the first half, 4 on goal. All four were skillfully defended by Jim Johnson. Kazoos lead 2-0.

The second half? Not the same game. Johnson seemed to have lost something, allowing Schiavonia to knot the score at two (Topp, 57; McAndrew, 64). The Kazoos rallied, scoring a goal and taking the lead at minute 80, as Lampshade gave it back to Perknowleski, who used an effective bicycle kick into the goal past Kershaw. It looked like the Kazoos would be playing for fifth place... but OH! Tarmey has danced away from Cha Cha Cha, and pounds it past Johnson! And it's all tied up as the referee blows the final whistle. It's off to Extra Time!

The first extra time period featured some amazing pushes, but ended without a goal, score still tied 3-3. Now to the second Extra Time!

Second extra time? A Schiavonian attack by Moore was repulsed by the defending trio of Jack Johnson, Cha Cha Cha, and Scovest, as was a tandem attack of Chadd Johnson and Lampshade by Schiavonian defenders O'Kane, Park, Marsden, and Smith. The whistle blows, and it's off to penalty kicks!

The lineup has been announced for Schiavonia: it'll be Tarmey, Sanderson, McAndrew, Topp, and finally, Moore. The Kazoo Lineup will be Izzone, Rudy Johnson, Chadd Johnson, Lampshade, and Perknowleski.

First up is Schiavonia's Andrew Tarmey. Tarmey has 12 goals. He shoots to the right... and Johnson blocks him! Nice save!

Next is Cort Izzone, the famed player with the bionic knee. Izzone shoots... and gets it past the diving Kershaw! 1-0 Kazoos!

Kenny Sanderson up next. Sanderson -- wide of the goal! Oh! Completely blew it there, as Johnson slipped as he was running to his left.

A Kazoo goal will give the Kazoos a great advantage going into attempt number 3... Rudy Johnson up next. The ref's whistle blows, Johnson goes for the corner, Kershaw jumps... and misses! 2-0 Kazoos! Kazoos with a great advantage.

This next one has to be a goal, or Schiavonia will need a lot of luck to take this one away from the Kazoos... McAndrew lines up, takes the shot, as it sails past Johnson into the goal! 2-1 Kazoos.

Chadd Johnson up next. Star forward, runs up, and shoots! Blocked by Kershaw. Still 2-1 Kazoos.

Topp is due up. Can he top the Kazoo goalkeeper to make it tied? He shoots, Johnson dives to his left, while Topp shoots right, Topp Scores! Tied up 2-2.

The other star forward, Jonny Lampshade, lines up for the Kazoos. He takes his mark, and runs, shoots! Off the crossbar -- bounces out, no goal! Still tied, 2-2.

It comes down to this: the final kick... Moore is the last to kick for Schiavonia. He shoots, and scores easily past the diving Johnson. Tough luck for the Kazoos, as they took the lead early, only to have it squandered by the ineptitude of Johnson. Schiavonia up 3-2.

Here we are: it's all or nothing for the Kazoos. Perknowleski has to make this shot to take this for one more shot... Perknowleski aligns himself. He shoots. WIDE RIGHT! Misses the goal entirely, it sails into the stands. Schiavonia wins 3-2!

So why the sudden rise in goals allowed by the Kazoos? Apparently, a secret injury had been withheld from the press!

Medical Supervisor Ace Bandage had this to say: "Jim Johnson has been playing with a stomach flu and a hernia. He has been playing only about 60% this tournament."

"Mr. Bandage, did the coach know about this?"

"No, he didn't. Johnson wanted to play, so he told me not to tell Aka about the injury."

"How long has this gone on?"

"Johnson started feeling ill after the rest day on matchday three. Or, takina, if you prefer."

"So, we've been losing because our goalkeeper hasn't been playing at 100%?"

"You could make that assumption."

"Will he be healthy enough to play in World Cup 27?"

"Yes, he should be at 100% by the Cup."

Aka was furious when he found out. He promptly suspended Jim Johnson without pay for the remainder of the tournament, and ordered him to pay a K$25,000 fine for "withholding information."

Aka put backup goalkeeper Robert Johnson in the lineup for tomorrow's match against Milchama.

"I'm disappointed in Johnson, but I understand why he did it: he loves the game, and that is clear. He wanted to show his dedication by playing whilst injured. I admire that, but he must pay the consequences."

So, the Kazoos are off to face Milchama in the seventh place match at Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse.

"I just want some dignity! I want seventh! But at the same time, our embarassing performance here just saddens me. I want to go home!" said Aka.

The bracket is as follows:
1E New Montreal States_
A|_Tadjikistan___
2T Tadjikistan_________| |
E|_Tadjikistan_
1G Starblaydia_________ | |
B|_Starblaydia___| |
2Q Milchama____________| |
(2nd)|________
1T The Kazoo Peoples___ |CHAMPION
C|_Sarzonia______ |
2E Sarzonia____________| | |
F|_Sarzonia____|
1Q Casari______________ |
D|_Casari________|
2G Schiavonia__________|

Loser A New Montreal States_
1|_New Montreal States_
Loser B Milchama____________| |
(6th)|_________(5th)
Loser C The Kazoo Peoples___ |
2|_Schiavonia__________|
Loser D Schiavonia__________|

Loser E Starblaydia_
(4th)|__________(3rd)
Loser F Casari______|

Loser 1 Milchama__________
(8th)|__________(7th)
Loser 2 The Kazoo Peoples_|

Progress In Draggonnii Inviyatii:
Group Stage (2-0-1):
MD1: win over Tadjikistan 1-0
MD2: win over The Archregimancy 2-1
MD3: loss to Hypocria 3-2
---
Championship Bracket:
MD4: loss to Sarzonia 4-0
Ranking Bracket:
MD5: loss to Schiavonia 3-3 AET, 3-2 APK
MD6: vs Milchama

[NS]Bazalonia

26-02-2006, 05:12

"Another over-ranked loss of 1" by Nev Gould

In an amazing come back after the disappearance of Hobble the Bazalopes managed three goals against Hypocria, a team that is over 60 ranks above us. Instead of relying on Hobble the team has seemed to actually fuse together and become one team. Old soccer association rivalries left behind and no star players being relied upon to get goals but one team that's working together. "I am very proud of our Team." said Assistant Coach Malcolm Frost "Not only did they manage very well without Peter, scoring 3 goals against Hypocria but they are now one cohesive unit working together." That is one thing that I did notice after the Hobble disappearance, that the team was begining to pull together. Though once again the Bazalopes are in the fight to not be on the bottom of the ladder. Though something interesting, the Bazalopes will be playing against the hosts... Yes that's right ASMV is going to be battling against the Bazalopes to avoid the dreaded "Wooden Spoon" or last place in the tournament. During halftime Hypocria scored 3 of their goals and Kantwell scored one for the Bazalopes just before the whistle blew in the 45th minute. But after the Half, the Bazalopes which where keeping themselves back for the 2nd half, which they fought back scoring goals in the 55th and 67th minutes.. Irchov Michael scored both of those. The Hypocria team took the goal that won them the match on the 73rd minute of the match.. after that everyone was too tired and the game got bogged down in the midfield.

Hypocria

26-02-2006, 11:02

We’re Not the Worst!

Zvonimir Roeder is probably deeply regretting his decision to take charge of the squad for this tournament. For the man who is meant to be the nation’s “Director of Football Development” the competition has been little short of a disaster. Three defeats in four games has left the Hyppos firmly entrenched in the Loser’s Bracket and has raised questions over Roeder’s ability to oversee the Autocracy’s footballing development.

Defeat to Ariddia, a side the Hyppos had beaten at the Cup of Harmony just a few short weeks ago, in the first game of the bracket increased the possibility of mighty Hypocria finishing rock bottom, sixteenth out of sixteen.

Fortunately that depressing eventuality is no longer a possibility thanks to a 73rd minute Dudamel goal against Bazalonia, the final drama in a thrilling seven goal encounter with the Bazalopes. We did win but once again those deficiencies in defence were revealed as we successfully threw away a 3 - 1, (Baxter and Bercali (2) on the scoresheet) halftime lead with only Dudamel’s late heroics salvaging the win.

So no we’re off to the Tapia Reis Civic Arena for the 13th Place Playoff and a showdown with Cuation, who have been enjoying an equally unimpressive time. There should be a cracking atmosphere at the Arena as two teams the Vegans have taken to their hearts go head to head.

And spare a thought for our gracious hosts who have to be the unluckiest nation in world football. Back home in the Autocracy the fans will certainly be cheering on the Sea Dragons just as loudly as they do the Hyppos.

Wentland

26-02-2006, 13:13

Martin Smith was given the hairdryer treatment after the 3-1 defeat to the Archregimancy. Only Cosmo Kent's cross going directly in saved some sort of face in the general Orthodox Onslaught. But it could have been different had Smith got his head on any of the numerous balls coming in from Kent and (occasionally) Okey.

"What the hell was wrong with you???" cried Bluff. "You were ducking most of the time."

"Er, it was something one of their defenders said. Something about death and faith. They were going on about this all through the match..."

"And? What difference does that make?"

"Well, er, I didn't want to end up on the end of a cross."

***

Time for the Swifts to pick themselves up for the vital, er, 11th place match with Ariddia. The Nickel Medal was still up for grabs - no-one wanted to settle for Perspex.

Same team again, decreed Bluff. Chance for you to get some dignity back.

Tadjikistan

26-02-2006, 14:26

Sharipower
By Simon Grinchik, part time sportsjournalist

Khumdin Sharipov has proven that he is a worthy successor of the Sadirov brothers by beating one of the worlds best teams around with an astounding 4-0 victory which amazed even the Tadjik players. Was it luck or just simple Tadjik skill? 'Both played a part, Saidomir [Saradov] made a couple moves that could only be described as excellent and they gave us the edge in the second part of the first half. But Zhenya [Zyrianov] was somewhat lucky that the Starblaydians moved up to far, leaving their whole rear open to him and his fast legs'

Even when the Starblaydia team began a siege of the Tadjik box, they seemed unable to press through and make that one goal that would get some of that pressure of their backs. And when two World Cup winning strikers appeared unable to make the difference, many started to ask what was wrong with Starblaydia, even Sharipov couldnt believe what he saw when the 4-0 came on the scoreboard :'Some players that I expected to break pots on the Starblaydi side, seemed to be in a bad day while there was alot of experimenting in their team, well, I cant disagree when they say we didnt deserve a 4-0 win. But then on the other hand, they made some mistakes at crucial moments, we took advantage of those. Isnt that what football is all about?'

Their victory sends the Tigers to the final of this tournament, against Sarzonia, a team they already got to meet in WC25. The Sarzonians came out victorious with 5-4 in the penalties and the Tadjiks returned home empty handed, Bahro Sadirov, who led the Tigers then believes they can take revenge: 'They are one of, if not 'the', best teams of the world but as we have seen in World Cup 26, even that doesnt guarantee victory. I know that it will be hard to win this one, but i'd like to get that Draggonnii Arcea Trophy for the Tadjik fans, whom have supported us for many years now. And even if we lose this one, then there's nothing to be ashamed of.'

Fixtures:
MD1: Tadjikistan - The Kazoo Peoples L 0-1
MD2: Hypocria - Tadjikistan W 1-2
MD3: Tadjikistan - The Archregimancy W 3-1
MD4: New Montreal States - Tadjikistan W 1-2
MD5: Tadjikistan - Starblaydia W 4-0

Sarzonia

26-02-2006, 19:31

Stars look to keep it rolling

Sarzonia seem to be peaking at just the right time in this tournament. After struggling to a 1-1-1 record that had Coach Dave Wilson fuming at his team for its shaky performances, the Stars rolled to back to back clean sheets by a combined margin of 6-0. Their reward? A championship final matchup against a Tadjikistan side that throttled Starblaydia 4-0.

"We hope they ran out of goals there," Wilson joked. "Let's hope they're out of gas after putting four behind the Blaydes."

However, Wilson wasn't joking about his team's performance in the last two matches as it snapped out of its group stage funk to win two straight matches in the championship bracket to face the Tigers. Sarzonia got goals from midfielder Jenna Raven and forward Kevin Wilson and a chance to win a trophy in a pre-World Cup tournament for the first time since their Baptism of Fire Cup trophy prior to World Cup XVI.

"We're going to go after it no matter what," Raven said. "We're not going to worry about what this means in the grand scheme of football, but we're also going into it with an eye toward adjusting to a new coach and a new style of play." Even a Stars loss in the finals to Tadjikistan may not dampen Wilson's enthusiasm for his team's play of late.

"We're greatly encouraged by the play of our depth players in this tournament," Wilson said. "We're showing an ability to peak at the right time and that's going to be what I look for when the World Cup begins anew." Wilson said the selection of Sir Douglas Freech as IFF president has freed him to "focus on what I'm really sort of good at," coaching the team.

"Even with Cal [Trottier, former assistant coach and interim IFF president] there, I had to deal with a lot more administrative issues that I normally would have left for the chairman to deal with in my first tenure with the team," Wilson said. "Now that Sir Douglas is there, I can focus more on what my real job is and should be, and that's to make sure the product on the field is a positive reflection on Sarzonia."

Andossa Se Mitrin Vega

27-02-2006, 04:56

The final day of the Draggonnii Inviyatii is now in the books. I hope that the event was a success. I look foward to seeing each of you as WC27 kicks off and also look forward to having the best of the RP WC world back in Andossa Se Mitrin Vega before the next WC begins. Thanks to all of you who made this tourney a great one.

Draggonni Inviyatti Final Day

Championship Bracket Rd3

Errion Vega Stadii - Championship Match
Tadjikistan 1-4 Sarzonia

Carrington Championship Arena - 3rd Place Match
Starblaydia 4-0 Casari

Yumbo Jumbo Sports Complex
New Montreal States 2-2 Schiavonia (NMS wins 2-1 on penalties)

Meldenburg Mountain Fieldhouse
Milchama 2-2 The Kazoo Peoples (Milchama wins 3-2 on penalties)

Consolation Bracket Rd3

Inferi Domei
The Islands of Qutar 2-1 The Archregimancy

Voque Stadii
Ariddia 1-2 Wentland

Tapia Reis Civic Arena
Hypocria 0-0 Cuation (Cuation wins 3-1 on penalties)

Arcea Pana Arena
Bazalonia 0-1 ASMV

Congratulations to Sarzonia and thanks to everyone who participated.
See you all in WC27.

Sarzonia

27-02-2006, 06:19

Stars add to Wilson's haul

It wasn't the World Cup. It wasn't the AOCAF championship. It was an invitational tournament played in Andossa Se Mitrin Vega with little more than bragging rights on the line. But for Sarzonia Coach Dave Wilson and his attempts to get Sarzonia's footballing organisation back on track, it was definitely welcome. The Stars completed a perfect 3-0 run through the championship bracket after struggling to a 1-1-1 record in the group stage by throttling Tadjikistan 4-1 in the inaugural Draggonni Inviyatii pre-World Cup tournament.

"This is a strong start, that much is certain," Wilson said in the postgame news conference. "We need to take this with a realistic approach, and know that this just means that we had a little better run in a six match tournament and we got the opportunity to see where we are a little bit as a football team."

If this six match tournament were looked at as a referendum on Wilson's team after he took over for his former successor Barry Owens, the results would be somewhat mixed. Wilson readily admitted that, saying that the team "needs to put together a more consistent effort throughout than it did in this tournament." But for an organisation that was facing the chaotic departure of Owens and IFF chairman Terry Mangione, seeing Dave Wilson on the bench to lead his team to a championship had to be a good place for Wilson to start with the rebuilding of his team.

"I was fortunate to be able to guide this team to a championship," Wilson said. "Brett Hancock did a great job of coaching the team in the AOCAF tournament. Now we're going to be taking those two results and making them into building blocks for the next World Cup and hopefully beyond."

As for Tadjikistan, the Stars improved their overall record against the Tigers to 2-0, with a win in penalties during a World Cup combined with this victory in this first-ever invitational tournament.

"We just rounded into our top form at the right time," goalkeeper Harvey Cooley said. "We have to remember that we've still got to prove ourselves again in the World Cup."

Cuation

27-02-2006, 11:04

OC: thanks ASMV for this cup. Just sorry I couldn't be more active

Cuation struggle into 13th place.

After a strong Cup, Cuation have managed to pull up into 13th place. To show how strong things where, Cuation only lost twice and won only once in normal time. A lack of a cutting edge was perhaps all that prevented Cuation from being in the top ten. Why did Giovanni not provide it? His age catching up?

Wentland 1-0 Cuation

Cuation's changed line up looked dangerous in the counter but the full backs struggled badly. Cole and Butcher should do better but when Rio Samba's chanllege injured Treves, Smith would come on and lead the attack well.

Seamen was on fire, making save after save and he did so with the goal. Freekick on the left was met by the head of Smith, his header forcing a great diving save to the left but Seamen could only palm it away. The ball fell to an unmarked Okey. 1-0

An all out attack failed to prevent an embarrasing defeat as Wentland gained their first win in seven games. If they can learn to convert their chances, they might win more.

ASMV 1-4 Cuation

Gary Jens was placed back in the line up so he could be by Evan Evans. His fumble that allowed the Sea Dragons to score did not matter by then, Cuation where 3-0 up and would finish 4-1.

Rual Mendiz tore the back line and score a hatrick to defy predictions of a close match. Heskey came on as a sub and would add the fourth but everyone was glad to see the game played in a friendly spirit.

Hypocria 0-0 Cuation (Cuation wins 3-1 on penalties)

It says a lot about the game when only four penalties are netted in a shoot out. Both sides played a good defensive game with both goalies, Seamen in Cuation goal, doing well when called upon.

[NS]Bazalonia

27-02-2006, 13:36

"Bazalopes Hold ASMV to 1 goal" by Nev Gould
... but make none themselves. The Bazalope Defense really held together only allowing the one goal through early in the match after an inspired play by the Dragons (The host nations team). This was an amazing shot and there was nothing that the Bazalopes could do but watch, it was the perfect shot. However when things go perfect, they usually go pair-shaped afterwards. The hosts had a few decent chances, but they where either easily stopped by Jeffery Constantine or went over the top. The ASMV defense though where never really threatened after such an exhausting 6 match trial the attacking Bazalopes did not have the energy to really perform. anyway, really, was their anyhope for a place other than dead-last in this invitational? No, really there never was.

..........

Caine Hawdon on the phone with James Gaines....

"I have had a few talks with players and it seems that Hobble did not take his sweat water bath when we where playing against Elrich, back in the Cup of Harmony." Caine...

"Are you saying that Peter is.. is a..." James

"Werewolf, yes sir." Caine

"But how come we didn't notice until now?" James

"Well, he probably was trying to suppress his 'animal instinct' and it just blew up at the restaraunt." Caine...

"I meant the bite, or whatever..." James

"Oh... well the wolfman either hid it very well during one of his tackles or it happened off the field. You know we dso have a couple of hours where Hobble went missing after that. So do you reckon we should take him off the roster for the 27th world cup? - Caine

"No... he is still a good soccer player, and we still need him to win. If he can score 2 goals like he did before going AWOL then, wow." James

"but we still have not really found him... of course there have been reports of Team members and some public seeing a wolf around the Stadia where the Bazalopes have been playing." Caine

"Well... I'll write a letter to Elrich and see if I can't get them to explain/"

...

James wrote the following letter and set it to the Elrich FA,

Elrich Football Association
Subject: Peter Hobble and Wolfman

It seems that sometime, either during the match we played in the Cup of Harmony or sometime after it, that Peter Hobble had got bitten by the Wolfman and has himself turned into a Werewolf. Please account for this occurance, and we are currently thinking about taking legal action against the wolfman, criminally for assault or through civil action. Though the Elrichian FA may well also be named as co-defendents, depending on our legal teams advice. We thank you for your attention and wish a speedy reply.

Yours Sincerly, James Gaines
President of the Bazalonian Federation of Soccer Associations

Starblaydia

27-02-2006, 14:40

Azanulbizarn 'statisfied' with 3rd Place
Casari crushed as WC27 team takes shape

Starblaydia met all of their targets for the inaugural Draggonnii Inviyatii tournament, Manager Khim Azanulbizarn said today, despite not winning the competition.

"The lads played one game that were nae reet," Azanulbizarn said, "Ah'd rather it were in this than were in Bedistan or Effen'jayfeenix next year." Andossa Se Mitrin Vega has seen the formation of a Starblaydi side that can take back the World Cup trophy in Bedistan and Fmjphoenix, experts say. "Ma startin' eleven is set in me mind, plus me substitutes. Ah need to figure out t'squad players, but Liga Starblaydia will be mah guide t'that."

What could be going on in Azanulbizarn's brain? Is Francisco Ibanez ready for some responsibility in the Number two shirt for a World Cup Campaign or will his rash streak let young Ricardo Almeida or veteran Danzir Garahildim back in? Has Roberto Vega done enough to keep his place alongside Tolkacheva, or will Raphaelo's excellent club parnership with Dash turn into a national one too? Is Paul Noble a young man for the future, or has his time come to replace the twenty-nine year-old Cherry Garcia?

Javi Chavez may well have secured his place with a brace of goals against Casari, though the competition between this unheralded Spirits' player and that of the mercurial Jade Matranga is fierce. Georges Blanc surely has himself in the driving seat now as Starblaydia's holding midfielder, including a longe-range goal to make it 3-0 to Starblaydia. Paul Noble, another midfielder, added to the tally with a free-kick as he stakes his claim to take the shirt from Cherry Garcia's back. Metaphorically, of course.

Final Score from Carrington Championship Arena:
Starblaydia 4 - 0 Casari
(Chavez 24 & 36, Blanc 52, Noble 59) - (None)

The Kazoo Peoples

27-02-2006, 19:34

"It started off good, then it went to bad, then it just sucked." Or so a recap of the first-ever Draggonni Inviyatii Pre-World Cup Showcase would go for the Kazoos.

The Kazoos, though starting off strong in the group stage, defeating runner-up Tadjikistan and 10th-place The Archregimancy, dropped its next four games, the last two on penalties. One loss was expected, as the Kazoos were facing #1 Sarzonia, but subsequent losses to Schiavonia and Milchama had us wonder.

"I'm glad we're going home for a while, until qualification for World Cup 27 begins," said Aka at the post-game press conference. "I think we're just tired, and we need to take a break before we do anything else." Aka dozed off for the rest of the conference, saying at random intervals something along the lines of "No, sea monkeys are attacking me!"

The Kazoos (again) started off strong, scoring goals at minute 14 and minute 17, both by Chadd Johnson.

Milchama forward J.J. Faren just before the half at minute 31. 2-1 Kazoos.

After a harsh challenge on a Perknowleski (which did not earn the Milchama player Antoine Sanchez a card, to the chagrin and boos of the fans), Milchama scored their second goal (Marc J. Floren, 62), and knotted up the score at 2-2. Perknowleski was removed from the game, bleeding profusely at the knees and legs. He was replaced by Herman Melville.

The second half ended, and the match went to extra time for the second straight match. Extra time ended without a fuss, so it was off to penalties!

The Kazoo Peoples Milchama

Chadd Johnson 1:0 J.J. Faren
Rudy Johnson 1:1 Spot Neilson
Herman Melville 1:2 Marc J. Floren
Jonny Lampshade 1:2 Marian Flinters
Mohr Ganfreeman 2:3 Funston Copperlee

That's all we have to say. Kazoos drop their final game in this tournament, and claim 8th place.

"We'd like to thank Andossa Se Mitrin Vega for hosting such a fine tournament," said Aka. "If we knew what 'thank you' was in Ancient Vegan, we'd say it. We look forward to next year's tournament, where we will hopefully capture the top prize."

Draggonnii Inviyatii (2-0-4):
Group Stage (2-0-1):
MD1: win over Tadjikistan 1-0
MD2: win over The Archregimancy 2-1
MD3: loss to Hypocria 3-2
---
Championship Bracket (0-0-3):
MD4: loss to Sarzonia 4-0
Ranking Bracket (0-0-2):
MD5: loss to Schiavonia 3-3 AET, 3-2 APK
MD6: loss to Milchama 2-2 AET, 3-2 APK

Wentland

28-02-2006, 00:21

The Wentland team was well pleased with their comeback from a goal down to steal a mighty 11th place in the Draggonni Inviyatii. For a young, experimental squad against many of the biggest names in football they felt it was not an unworthy appearance; indeed, it probably marked Wentland's best ever performance in an international tourney (not that there was much competition for that).

The 23 went on a lap of honour at the Voque Stadii, enjoying the applause from the generous Andossa crowd, especially for Cosmo Kent who really seemed to have come of age; another goal and an assist as Martin Smith got his head both together and to a cross.

The Wentland FA presented a crystal swift to their hosts in gratitude for a tournament both well organized and well executed. Perhaps a top 10 next time.

New Montreal States

28-02-2006, 04:30

PALADINS CLAIM FIFTH IN A BIT OF AN ANTICLIMAX

Team disbanded after dramatic penalty win over Schivonia

ANDOSSA SE MIRE VEGA - Stoked after a victory over national rivals Milchama, and anxious about the upcoming results of the World Cup 27 hosting vote, this young but talented Paladins squad seemed to have everything going for it.

Then reality struck. Bedistan and Fmjpheonix claimed the hosting bid, and the Paladins knew their days as a team were numbered before being returned to their schools and having to jockey for position. They were determined to go out with a bang, however, and that's certainly what they did.

After goals by Gilles Villeneuve (his unprecedented 9th of the tourney) and Charles Pilon gave the Paladins an early lead, a determined Sloths side slowly chipped away at the Paladins, bringing the game to 2-2 by the end of injury time, and sending the match to penalties for the first time this tourney for NMS.

Goals by Villeneuve and fellow forward Hubert Labranche put the Paladins up, and when Paul Chasson deflected the third Schivonian shot, the game was up, and NMS was 5th place finisher in this excellently run, exciting tournament. When the inevitable announcement came - that this side was to be broken up, and the schools contest was to be resumed, the Paladins took it in stride.

"We've had a great run," said Gilles Villeneuve. "We beat the bloody best team in the whole bloody world, and we can go back to NMS with our heads held high. We've proved that we can play with any nation in the world, and that NMS is back, completely, finally. Except for Tadjikistan."

But we won't dwell on that. How about beating Sarzonia and Milchama, two wins that more than make up for the one failure?

The Archregimancy

28-02-2006, 06:39

MONASTIC TIMES

MONASTIC FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION FORGETS ABOUT TOURNAMENT
Officials Forced to Apologise to Andossa se Mitrin Vega

By Fr. Nicholas the Scribe

The MFA issued a general apology today to Draggonni Inviyatii hosts Andossa se Mitrin Vega for the Archregimancy's apparent lack of interest in the pre-World Cup 27 invitational.

"We're deeply sorry" said a senior archimandrite, speaking on condition of anonymity "but with Great Lent starting this next week - and the meat fast already underway - we were rather distracted"

With the national team collecting lentils in preparation for the upcoming fast, The Archregimancy is believed to have been represented in the tournament by regular Monastic League cellar-dwellers TPM of Voronets MFC, which may go some way towards explaining the team's rather unpredictable tournament form. Despite having no national team players, and currently sitting in their habitual bottom-four place only three games into the season, the lads from the Painted Monastery of Voronets acquitted themselves surprisingly well, beating Hypocria in the first meeting between an Archregimancy side and the Hyppos.

"Don't worry" said the same senior archimandrite quoted earlier "we'll field a full team in the World Cup proper - even if we have to play during Holy Week. Though it's nice to see TPM of Voronets doing well, bless."

OOC: the same apologies - ooc this time - to ASMV. Unfortunately the tournament started when I was in the middle of the Australian bush with no net access, so I couldn't participate then, and by the time I was back and remembered the tournament was underway, it was too late. It wasn't lack of interest on my part - merely unfortunate scheduling!

NationStates Jolt Archive

Draggonni Inviyatii Pre WC Showcase (Invitation Only)