World Cup 4 [Archive] - Page 2

Ariddia

08-06-2003, 16:00

8pm news

Yasmina Jones:
"And people are even now partying in the streets as Ariddia's entry in the final phases of the World Cup has been confirmed. Ariddia has totalled three victories and two draws."

Images of people shouting and jumping around and generally having a wild time in the streets of Ariddia's cities and villages. On television channels in nations where public nudity is not authorised, these images are partly blurred.

= = = = = = = = = = =

Tim: "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome! Tonight, World Cup Four begins in earnest... and Ariddia is in!"

Rob: "Certainly is, Tim, along with thirty-one other nations who have made it past the qualifying stages. Ariddia is in Group G, the same group as the hosts, along with One Red Dot and Caras Sidh. We're presently at Locosi Colosseum, dubbed 'the Big Bunker', for Ariddia's game against One Red Dot. We're in a military surrounding here, Tim, and I'm not sure that'll make our boys and girls comfortable..."

Tim: "Let's just hope they'll adapt. The important thing is what's going to happen on the pitch itself. Now, the coach has decided on the following formation..."

GK: Michel Boulanger (3, capt)
DEF: Tina Realm (9), Jean Cerf (4), Vic Blau (15), Nathaniel Guildenstern (21)
MID: Michel Legris (8 ), Ranjit Khan (7) , Raph Khaled (22), Colin Jones (18 )
ATT: Terry Singh (16), Raphael Ford (2)

Rob: "And the team are, of course, wearing the traditional red and black colours of Ariddia... A red top with a black slash going from the left shoulder to the right hip, and the same on the back. Black shorts, red socks. And Boulanger in green..."

Tim: "Shh... The anthems..."

16th minute:
Tim: "Singh, Ford and the others moving forward at every opportunity, pressing to break through One Red Dot's defences. Classic Ariddian strategies, so far - taking risks and hoping to score a maximum number of goals."

Rob: "Those defences are holding well, though. Singh has to pass to Jones. Jones... forced to move back. He passes to Ford, who slips forward... He's... passing to Khaled... And a real opportunity here, and GOAL!!"

Tim: "Ariddia has opened the score! The other players are carrying Khaled, running back to the middle of the pitch... Listen to the supporters! They're chanting the players' numbers again!"

Supporters: "Number 3: Michel... Boulanger!! Number 4: Jean... Cerf! Number 5..."

39th minute:
Tim: "Singh is streaking forward... My, he looks unstoppable! He's close enough, a clear angle, he shoots... Oh, and it's just above the bar!"

Rob: "It's not that often Singh misses... A real opportunity here. Never mind..."

Tim: "He looks annoyed at himself, anyway. Maybe he'll see this as extra motivation..."

70th minute:
Rob: "Jones to Khan. Khan, who must be glad to be back in the game, after his injury prevented him from playing against Runaway Moose... Khan back to Jones. Blau moving forward... What's he doing all the way up here? Never mind, Jones passes to Blau... who's in position to get it through to Singh... One Red Dot's defence moving in, efficiently... Singh sneaks it through to Ford... That's a difficult angle... He shoots, it's in! Only just, but it is in!"

Tim: "They're doing it, Rob! They're getting through, and scoring! I think we can say both teams are defending well, but while Ariddia's defences have formed a real shiels so far, our lads and girls have begun to find cracks in One Red Dot's shield... I mean, defence."

Final score:
Ariddia - One Red Dot: 3-0

Runaway Moose

08-06-2003, 16:34

G:Well, what a game against Rivadavia folks. We're sorry about those technical troubles. We just couldn't get a signal to broadcast. But what a great game. Goals went to MOZ and Shirasi, with assists by Gigas and Mus respectively.
L:That's right, and Moosejaw only let in one goal, which ensured our team's trip to the cup.
G:The Lunatic Goofballs were a fun team to play. I have never seen so many antlers clashing... bit of a stunt they pulled trying to prank our players like that, but all in good fun. Where does one get those fake antlers anyway?
L:I don't know Gus... maybe our team's souveneir shops? Our team had a good showing, with the return of Tinesta they played a solid offensive, but there was no getting past the Goofball's goalie, Moran, as he was completely in the zone... but hey, there was no getting past Moosejaw either.
G:That's right. Despite several spectacular shots, neither team was able to score in this one.
L:Well, a hearty congratulations to those Goofballs, because they played a good game, and a fun one. The mud party afterwards was super, and we also congratulate them on winning the mud sculpture contest. What a game and what a day!

Spaam

08-06-2003, 16:36

:shock:

Arridia is gooood....
What have you been feeding your players????

Ariddia

08-06-2003, 18:54

:shock:

Arridia is gooood....
What have you been feeding your players????

OOC:

LOL Thanks...
Maybe I need to test them for illicit substances... :wink:

Total n Utter Insanity

08-06-2003, 18:58

:shock:

Arridia is gooood....
What have you been feeding your players????

OOC:

LOL Thanks...
Maybe I need to test them for illicit substances... :wink:

OOC: I didn't drug them :)

Spaam

08-06-2003, 19:11

OOC: I bet you did :P You just don't like your ranking ;)

08-06-2003, 19:19

This is Dante Casey from Emrak's NewsChannel 4, and I'm coming to you from Sanchevez Stadium in Brazillico!

http://carassidh.homestead.com/files/gowings_2.jpg
The Caras Sidh Balloon Platoon flew all the way here to see this game, some of them paying several months' income for a seat! They're here to cheer on their Wings!

It's going to be a wild game...Brazillico is their first opponent in the World Cup games, and they've certainly got the home stadium advantage...but don't count out the Wings! Coach Mason's been encouraging the team to dig down deep and pull out all the stops, and he's been especially tough on the defenders. In an earlier interview he said, quote, "Defense wins games," and also "We gotta be sure not to let any goals get through."

Meanwhile the Wings' star forward Aranya Gwilleth has reportedly been getting calls from everyone: from Sports Photographed Magazine, asking for a shoot in their swimsuit issue, to a local cereal company, asking her to endorse their product. Gwilleth's been taking it all in stride, though, and says that her only focus now is to bring this team to victory.

http://www.wellesley.edu/PublicAffairs/Images/illsoccer2.gif

Gwilleth (voice-over): We've been practicing all week as a team. We're ready for this. We're going to go out there and make Caras Sidh proud, that's all there is to it.

Casey (coice-over): What do you say in regards to rumors that Dash Buonorotti may have injured his hip in the last game?

Gwilleth: Antonio's been resting up, taking it easy. He did look like he was limping at the end of last game, you saw it and I saw it, but for all I know he's doing fine and is ready to go.

Casey: Well, in just a few minutes the players will be coming out, and every Carasian's eyes will be glued to their TV at home! We look forward to an exciting game!

08-06-2003, 21:36

EDIT- :roll:

Lemmitania

08-06-2003, 21:48

Coming to you live from cool Brazillico, this is Shemp Wooley on the Lemmitanian Radio Network. It's thirty minutes to kickoff of the Lemmings' first round World Cup match against Spookistan and Jakalah. The boys in orange are warming up on the field, and keeping warm up here in the booth are Clem Gilson and Gil Lemson. Nice day for football, eh, gentlemen?

Clem: It certainly is, Shemp. Started off chilly, but the weather reports called for 14 degrees at game time, and it isn't far off.

Shemp: How about all those orange shirts in the stands?

Clem: Wow. I'm really amazed at the degree to which football fever has taken hold of Lemmitania. I mean, keeping in mind the fact that before the previous World Cup there had never even been a football inside the nation's borders--

Shemp: A bit of an exaggeration, don't you think?

Clem: No, importation of footballs was actually illegal under the 1916 "No footballs in Lemmitania" act, also known as the Badu-Badu-Spader act of 1917.

Shemp: Um...

Gil: It 'ad somethin' to do wit' football lice, and the 1918 Great Gasket Shortage.

Clem: That's right. We read up on it last night. Check www.truehistoryoflemmitanianfootball.com and see for yourself.

Shemp: I see. Well, anything written on the internet can't be wrong.

Gil: Don't you know it?

Shemp: What about the fact that those dates don't add up?

Gil: Wot dates would those be, Shemp?

Shemp: 1916, 1917, 1918...

Gil: Maybe you're thinkin' of the Great War?

Shemp: Maybe I should skip over the history and move along to today's game. What do you think of this Spookistan and Jakalah team? Clem?

Clem: Well, they finished out the qualifiers with a repectable 2-2-2 record. This will not be a walkover, but I know the boys are going into it with their confidence high. After that disappointing opening loss to Dyelli Beybi and a draw with ultimate group D co-champs Lunatic Goofballs, the Lemmings closed out the quals with four straight Ws. They had one of the top point differentials in the quals, and after Dyelli Beybi, gave up only four goals in five games. Spookistan and Jakalah meanwhile Beat Snub Nose 38 and then drew One Red Dot to squeak into the third spot in their group. While they're no pushovers, there's no doubt that Spookistan and Jakalah is the weakest team in a strong group D.

Shemp: Total 'n' Utter Insanity, Altamira, Lemmitania, and Spookistan and Jakalah. The proverbial "group of death?"

Clem: I don't know as I'd take it that far, Shemp, but Altamira finished the quals 4-1-1, the same record we mustered. Heading into the first round, the only game I feel confident about is Spookistan and Jakalah.

Shemp: So! You're calling this a win for the Lemmings, then?

Clem: Well, I'm hopeful.

Shemp: And what about the Lemmings' final qualifying match, against Alhana Catherine? Due to the power outages we weren't able to broadcast that one live, and a lot of the fans back home might not know how it went.

Gil: 1-0, Lemmitania.

Shemp: Yes, I'm sure they know the score. I'm talking about the quality of play.

Clem: There was a lot of give-and-take. Although they finished second-to-last in the group, the Alhana Catherine side had a lot of spirit.

Shemp: And so did their fans!

Clem: Oh, yes! Yes, they certainly came out to show their support.

Gil: My favorite fans of the Cup, 'ands down.

Shemp: For those at home who didn't catch it on the recaps, there were not one but three streakers on the field at one point.

Clem: They came right out of a block of Alhana Catherine seats and dashed across the field. Three lovely young ladies.

Gil: An' wot a lovely bunch o' coconuts they 'ad.

Clem: I can honestly say I hope we face Alhana Catherine again in the next World Cup.

Gil: Indeed.

Shemp: Well, the warm-ups are ending and the teams are getting ready for the start of play, so I'll be signing off until halftime. Good luck, gentlemen.

Clem: Thank you, Shemp. The coinflip has taken place, and Spookistan and Jakalah will begin with possession. We've got Henneman, Bingson, and Roger Rosco once again on the front line, Wilco Rosco, Mick Mickelson and Lemstater in the midfield, and on D Hartford, Chang, Spud, and getting only his second start this year, Orgo Molvo in place of the usual Mike Debrowski. Debrowski sitting with a slight left hamstring injury, and he told me yesterday he'd just as soon start, but Coach Lemster's playing it conservatively. In goal, Mel Flanders, who as we mentioned earlier has surrendered just four goals in the fast five games. Quite a performance. And as they're lining up for the kickoff, I'll turn the mike over to my comrade, Gil Lemson.

Lemmitania

08-06-2003, 21:53

Gil: Wot?

Clem: You're on, buddy. Call the kickoff.

Gil: Bloody 'ell.

Clem: Look! Now you've missed it.

Gil: Well, they're kicking the ball. 'At's about all they ever seem to do, folks, an' they're doin' it again. Some of these Spookistani guys 'ave it, and they've workin' their way down the field. Plenty of orange shirts around 'em, that'd be Mick Chang an' Bing Bingson 'arrassin' the fellow wit' the ball, but no, 'e's kicked it away as soon as I could describe it. 'At's wot really irritates me about this game, Clem. No sooner do you go to the trouble of tellin' the people wot's going on, than it's all changed 'round. I can't honestly tell which team 'as the ball 'alf the time. Is it us? Is it them? Everybody's always kickin' it away like it's a 'ot potato.

Clem: A what?

Gil: A 'ot potato.

Clem: Just to fill our listeners in, Spookistan and Jakalah is pressing an attack, working it around the box, but we've got excellent coverage, with Chang, Molvo, and Spud keeping Flanders well out of it. And by the way, that was Mick Mickelson who was on the ball right after kickoff, not Mick Chang, who's well back on D.

Gil: I said it before an' I'll say it again. There's too many Michaels on the field, I can't tell 'em apart. And frankly, I'd like to know wot's the difference? They all do the same thing anyway. 'At's another thing I don't get. Why is it every player on the field plays exactly the same way? I can't tell a 'ooker from a 'alfback.

Clem: There are no hookers. There are strikers...

Gil: Wotever. Look: somebody jus' kicked the bloomin' ball again.

...

(17Th minute)

Clem: And Henneman sends it back across to Bingson, who dribbles it back from double coverage-- and another Spookistani player's charging across, looking for the steal but whoa-- a nice pass right between the defenders to Silsby and we've got two against one on the left side! Silsby charging, passes to Henneman and he takes the shot! It's right past the defender, their goalie gets a foot on it, ricochet is right at Bingson, and his header is in! Gooooooooal! The Lemmings are on the board!

Gil: Nice one by Bing Bingson. 'E might ought to try that one during league play, see wot it get's 'im there!

Clem: Probably a thrashing. So it's one nothing, Lemmings.

...

(42nd minute)

Gil: And once again 'e kicks the ball. It's been a 'ole lot o' kicking, people. Running and kicking, kickin' and running. You know wot might make the game more intersting, Clem?

Clem: What's that, Gil?

Gil: Wot if they weren't allowed the use o' their feet? Say all the players were given knee pads, an' they 'ad to skootch aroun' like that, on their knees?

Clem: How would they kick the ball?

Gil: 'eaders, exclusively. No kickin'. No bloody kickin' allowed. Wotta you think o' that?

Clem: Wow! What a shot! Henneman drills it right past the goalie's outstretched arms!

Gil: Oh, bloody 'ell. Why can't I ever get to call it when we finally score one?

Clem: No idea, Gil. That makes it two nothing.

...

(End of time)

Gil: ...an' I said to 'im, so if you're Mick, then who's 'e? An' 'e said, "I'm Mick too," an' that's when I figured out there was three Micks on the team, not two as I'd originally believed. That was the Lemvoola Leemcats, back in '99. Now since then, they traded Mick to the Jasper Dragoons and Mick to the Lemmington Lemmings, and they acquired another Mick-- that'd be Mick Mickelson, the very one wot's out there on the field jumping around right now-- 'ow come 'e's jumpin' around like that, Clem? Don't 'e need to kick the ball or something?

Clem: Time's up, Gil. Game over. A victory for the Lemmings, two nothing over Spookistan and Jakalah. And we'll return right after these important messages.

Tanah Burung

08-06-2003, 21:57

08-06-2003, 22:02

*contacts Lemmitania about hiring Gil to host the next season of 'Win, Lose or Die!' on GTV.*

Ravenspire

08-06-2003, 22:34

KM: ...and now, on to sports. As some of our viewers may be aware, the final qualifying game for the World Cup was moved up because of worries about a tropical storm. For those of you who didn't catch our coverage last night, we first have a brief recap of that final game. Mike?

MB: Thank you, Kath. Well, as predicted, the Ravenspire team defeated McFitzerland to clinch the top spot in their qualifying group. While the game wasn't a walkover by any means, it resulted in a comfortable 2-0 victory for the crimson and black, with one goal scored in the first half by Zhen Sui-Ling and the other in the second by Matt Roker. That's a 4-0-2 record, and Ravenspire amassed the best defensive stats in the competition, allowing only four goals over six games.

KM: We'll present an exclusive interview with the team's manager and star striker Zhen Sui-Ling later. But first, Mike, let's take a look at the Cup, shall we?

MB: Ravenspire ended up in a pretty tough position here. It's not what anyone would call a group of death, with Spaam and the Divine Llama. Both were pretty solid in the qualifiers, but not as good as Ravenspire. The Llama has a wild, high-scoring offense, but a sloppy defense that leads to lots of goals against them; they're out there hoping to score more than the opponent managed to score against them. Spaam is a more disciplined team, with a better offense and defense record. I hear the match between them tied 2-2, incidentally. But the real trouble with this group is the presence of Giant Zucchini, the reigning world champions. By all rights, this should've been easy for them, and they were Ravenspire's first opponents in the Cup.

KM: A bit of bad luck with the draw there, Mike.

MB: Definitely, Kath. The expectation was for a GZ win. It didn't work out that way, though. I'm not sure whether they were overconfident, or our defense was working overtime, but Ravenspire just refused to give up any goals. A long, scoreless game, Kath.

KM: So Ravenspire's defensive focus is paying off?

MB: Well, you can't win without scoring yourself, but in this case, a draw is nothing to look down on. Ravenspire continues undefeated.

KM: And there you have it. We'll be right back, after this...

Kathryn Malley and Michael Black, reporting for RNN

08-06-2003, 22:41

<OOC>Sorry for the delay in posting, just got back from playing IRL footie.</OOC>

3:00 (0-0)
Dave: Already Altamira on the attack. Sipricci takes the ball passed Hilton. Freeson tries to stay with him. He dummies, the cross is good. Grayson from out of nowhere steamrollered his way into the box and headed straight in the top left hand corner. Rettler didn't stand a chance.

Mike: Fluke.

7:00 (0-1 Grayson)
Dave: Ovel has the ball; he chips it over Paglierra, to Tomme. Moreno comes for it. Foul surely, the ref is having words with him. He's just let him off with a warning. Ovel to take the free kick. Kellis, Yunn and Jal all in the box. Ovel plays a short ball to Tomme, fooling the wall. Tomme gets the ball in. Yunn at the near post, GOAL!!!

Mike: Sheer class.

19:00 (Yunn 1-1)
Dave: Both teams have settled down, following the exciting first 10 minutes, where it looked like both teams were going to score double figures.

22:00 (1-1)
Dave: The action has died down as both teams are playing defensively. Which is okay, 'cause we are going for a commercial break. Join us again soon...

45:00 (1-1)
Dave: Here we are, back from the halftime break. Some tight defenses out there, wouldn't you say?

Mike: Yeah.

Dave: Well, lets see what unfolds, I wouldn't want to venture a guess on who will be victorious in this match. Who do you think will take it?

Mike: Dunno

48:00 (1-1)
Dave: Sean Grayson plays a through ball to Gianelli, but Hilton intercepts. He threads the ball to Jal who flicks the ball to Xeres. Altamira can't recoup, it's a break. There's the ball to Kellis, he's through! Here's the shot! Ohhhh, what a brilliant save, but the ball's loose! There it is, oh my goodness, what a cracker by Yunn! His second goal of the match and takes the lead.

Mike: Nice counter.

Dave: You said it. Wow, that was something. I wonder if Altamira has anything left?

52:00 (Yunn 2-1)
Dave: Altamira can't seem to penetrate the defense. But, here goes Grayson, he's all over the field. He beats one, no two defenders, he's at the top of the box. Oh, a daft pass to the overlap... there's the boot of Gianelli...it's there! Goal Altamira! We're level again.

Mike: Smooth pass.

61:00 (2-2 Gianelli)
Dave: The drop kick from Cortez lands at the feet of Johnson, he lays it off to Sipricci, gets it back on the give and go, he's beaten Freeson, he gives it a go, rettler gets a finger on it, but it was too hard. Altamira takes the lead, what a move.

Mike: Exciting.

73:00 (2-3 Johnson)
Dave: Altamira seems to have shifted gears. Passing crisply, they're getting the ball to the running man, here's another one. Delgato moves it to Sipricci, it's back to DiPriva, the long ball to Grayson, he traps it to Gianelli, he makes the move, crosses the ball, it's searching, there's the head of Johnson, it's down... Goal! Rettler nearly had that one, but it was not to be. An acrobatic effort, but it's there, Altamira is ahead by 2 goals.

Mike: Almost had it.

88:00 (2-4 Johnson)
Dave: Altamira's been laying back, protecting their lead. Here comes another surge for Total n Utter Insanity. Xeres keeps the ball on his boot, pushes it forward, Delgato comes out to challenge. Xeres gives the ball to Tomme, wall pass... it's back, Xeres winds up, he's taken down by Fernand, the ref reaches in his pocket, it's yellow. Fernand goes in the books, Xeres takes the kick, it's cleared the wall, it's over... no! It dips under the bar, it's there... Cortez shakes his head. I can't wait to see the replay on this...

Mike: What just happened?

90:00 (Xeres 3-4)
Dave: There's the final whistle, Altamira takes it 4-3. A finely played match of football that neither side will forget for quite some time. Some great goals and some even greater saves made this one a thoroughly enjoyable match to watch, in a beautiful stadium. The cold and wet conditions here at Cordova Park didn't run off the supporters, nearly all the fans in attendance are now making their way out, and the Altamiran supporters are still celebrating in the stands.

Mike: Goodbye.

08-06-2003, 22:44

A 2-1 victory over Al Quds, one of the World Cups veteran teams, & an excellent one to boot. Quite...ah...well, quite a feat.

OOC: That was a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Al Quds.

Al Quds 2 - Rhaken Kull 1

Jurassica

08-06-2003, 23:02

Ann Ounza: ...And in the World Cup news, the Jurassican supporters are celebrating tonight after the team beat Europa Britannia in their first match. We go over live to Corey Spondant.

(Scene switches to reporter surrounded by cheering and chanting Jurassican fans)

Corey Spondant: Tonight Jurassica started their World Cup challange with a very close fought match against Europa Britannia. Up until the final whistle the match could have gone either way. But with a very lucky goal coming in the closing minutes, Jurassica won the match by 2 goals to 1. Coach Ivor Problem had the following to say.

(Scene switches to Coach standing in the stadium tunnel with players walking past celebrating)

Ivor Problem: We entered this match expecting a very tough game and we were not let down. We've played against Europa Britannia several times in past World Cups, and know that they are a very strong team. Both teams played hard, but in the end we had a bit of luck on our side, and managed that final goal.

(Scene switches back to Corey Spondant)

Corey Spondant: The Jurassican supporters are hoping the team can go on winning, but judging by past performance I don't think they should get their hopes up too high.

Total n Utter Insanity

08-06-2003, 23:16

Interviewer: Well third in the Group after the first lot of matches.

Manager: It's still early, everything to play for.

Interviewer: You know what happened to the last manager.

Manager: Yeah he was banished to the hell hole that is Ariddia.

Interviewer: Speaking of Ariddia, what do you think their chances are?

Manager: Well...we will have a much better picture of who goes through after the first 3 matches.

Interview: I'm sure we will, thanks for your time.

Manager: You’re welcome.

08-06-2003, 23:33

OOC I'm laughing at the Clem and Gil commentary until tears start. They'd be a huge hit on Carasian TV. Have your agent call my people. We'll do lunch.

09-06-2003, 00:13

*The camera pans across the San Chavez International Stadium with fans cheering wildly, a voice-over come on from Roberto Puyol*

RP: Not even gray skies and potential showers were able to hold these fans back! This stadium is packed to capacity, ready to see Brazillico face off against Caras Sidh. For a little more information on this match, here’s Junior Gasol.

JG: Caras Sidh is coming off a tremendous qualifying group, where they won a group containing Dead Man, Spaam and Kingsford and are coming to bring their game on the world stage. This won’t be easy, for they’ll be facing off against Brazillico. It remains to be seen if Brazillico will be fresh as a daisy, or rusty like my ’86 Jeep Cherokee after their recent hiatus.

RP: Let’s take a look at Brazillico’s line-up

Goalkeeper: McMario (1)
Defense: Sequoia(21)
Defense: Roberto (6)
Defense: Cordova(33)
Defense: Fernandez (11)
Midfield: Lopez (2)
Midfield: Marcos (9)
Midfield: Luis (4)
Midfield: De Jesus ( 8 )
Striker: A. Hernandez (13)
Striker: McGarnicle (14)

Benchwarmers: G-Romario(0), D-Gulia(5), D-Delgado(3), M-Molera(15), M/S-Suarez(12), S-Quintana(16)
<OOC: For more information, I made brief player bios on page 6 of this thread>

JG: A good mix of experience and youth in that line-up, I like the way they stack up.

RP: Well, it looks like they’re about to kick off World Cup IV and drop the ball.

*Play by play by Roberto Puyol*

4th Minute: The game is underway and Caras Sidh is looking sharp thus far. They’re passing the ball well into the Brazillico zone, the midfielder kicks one to the attacker in the box… Cut Out by Cordova!.. and so much for that attack.

9th Minute: Brazillico’s turn to mount a charge now. Lopez is running up with the ball, passes it up to Hernandez, crosses one in the box to McGarnicle. Heads it towards net.. Save! Good save by the keeper…

JG: That was close to net and going five-hole… I thought he might have been handcuffed by the shot but he handled it admirably.

15th Minute: Brazillico starting to control possession in this game, the midfielders and defense and passing the ball well amongst themselves. The Caras Sidh midfielder intercepts a pass and dumps it off to their Antonio "Dash" Buonorotti. He's streaking towards net, Fernandez cuts off the angle towards net… good move to evade him. Takes a shot from outside the box… GOAL! Caras Sidh is up 1-0!

*Camera shows an outnumbered contigent of Caras Sidh fans cheering wildly.*

JG: World class finish there Roberto, He was able to bend that inside the bar… the keeper didn’t have much of a chance at saving that one.

RP: Indeed he didn’t Junior, the Brazillico players look stunned.. they’re done a goal early on.

*Shot of the Caras Sidh goal scorer limping around*

RP: That has bad news written all over it, it looks like he's going to be taken out of the game after his goal

16th Minute: Felix Larkin substituted for Antonio "Dash" Buonorotti

23rd Minute: That goal by Caras Sidh really seemed to light a fire under them. They’re mounting another attack… the central midfielder chips one in to Larkin in the box. Half-volley towards net. SAVE! The ball is still in play… Roberto collects the rebound and clears it out of danger… good hussle.

JG: What a diving save. The striker wanted to try it lucky on the left side again, but the keeper was equal to the task there.

26th Minute: That close call appears to be a shift in momentum, as we see Brazillico rush up the field again, De Jesus has the ball… beats his man… passes one into McGarnicle, he’s in the clear. Ohhh! The flag goes up and that will be offside.

*Replay shows McGarnicle offside by no more than an inch.*

JG: That was a real judgement call there, it could have gone either way.

38th Minute: The game is being bogged down by a fierce midfield battle.

JG: Reminds me of my playing days, back when you needed to score at least 5 goals a game to win… ahhh… those were the days. Anyway, once, me and my opponent were in quite the scrap for the ball, well…

45th Minute
JG: …so I had to beat the player to death with his own shoes, but that was back in the day when players were tougher, so I only got a yellow card… but sure enough, I was able to win the ball and we won the game.

RP: Well, thank you for that anecdote Junior, really helped pass the time as nothing interesting happened to conclude the last bit of the half. The scoreline stands at 1-0 for Caras Sidh, what are your thoughts on that, Junior?

JG: Brazillico will have to show a little more urgency in the next half. The boys just aren’t playing to their potential and every player will have to step it up in the upcoming 45 minutes to get a result out of this match.

RP: Yes indeed, Brazillico was really flying high before this tourney, you think that they might have shown a little overconfidence coming into this game.

JG: Perhaps, we’ll just have to wait and see for the next half.

RP: Well, we wont have to wait very long, the second half is just getting underway.

46th Minute: It appears that Suarez has been substituted for Lopez, and Brazillico is now standing in a 4-3-3… this should give their offense a much needed kick.

55th Minute: Although Brazillico is controlling possession in this half so far, this Caras Sidh defense is proving to be a tough nut to crack, with no serious threat to the goal having being mounted thus far in the half. Suarez has the ball, passes it over to McGarnicle, drops it back to De Jesus. Takes a shot from a long way out… SAVE!... The keeper was able to get a touch on that but has conceded the corner in the process.

JG: Great diving save to the right of the net, this keeper won’t give Brazillico anything easy today.

56th Minute: Corner taken by Luis to the left of the keeper. Whips into the box… McGarnicle goes up, gets a head to it… OFF THE CROSSBAR!! The ball bounces over and Caras Sidh can breath easier, they have a goal kick.

64th Minute: I wonder if the Brazillican keeper is getting lonely, he hasn’t faced a shot so far in the half.

JG: I wouldn’t doubt it. The ball has stayed on Caras Sidh’s side of the field for almost the entire half.

67th Minute: Gulia substitiuted for Cordova.

JG: Some fresh legs coming in for Brazillico now, Curtiba referred to Gulia before the tournament as a shot of energy and a catalyst for this team.

72nd Minute: Brazillico threatening again. Caras Sidh has given up a free kick in a dangerous position and Luis is preparing to take it. Hard shot towards the right of the net.. keeper gets a hand to it! Rebound loose! Suarez slides towards the ball and gives it a
shot… Oh MY! That’s just wide!

JG: He should have at least put the ball on target there, with the keeper out of position, he was essentially looking at an open cage.

75th Minute: Quintana substituted for McGarnicle

JG: Another move for fresh legs trying to exploit the tiring Caras Sidh players, the teenage phenom Quintana is a speedster.

78th Minute: Gulia passes it over to Roberto, sloppy pass… its intercepted by the Felix Larkin! He’s all alone, streaking down the field… Gulia is the only one giving chase. Prepares to shoot in the box, Gulia slides in for the tackle... he won the ball over! The Caras Sidh player looks over to the referee for a penalty, but to no avail… that was a clean tackle.

79th Minute: The ball being moved back up the field… Gulia passes it to Fernandez, Fernandez to De Jesus… back heel to Quintana in front of the net. Turns around.. takes a shot, SCORES!

JG: GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO*15 seconds later*AAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!

RP: Great strike by Quintana! He’d only just gotten on the pitch but a good low strike to the left of the keeper has tied Brazillico back even with Caras Sidh 1-1.

JG: This crowd was feeling it before the goal, now they’re electric… hungry for another.

83rd Minute: Caras Sidh has dropped 9 men behind the ball and appear to be in damage control right now. Marcos has the ball, short pass to De Jesus. Looks for a target ahead… they’re all covered. Shimmies left and beats his man, he’s going to take a run at net all alone. Pressure flocks to him and he passes left to Hernandez. Ohhh!! He got taken out in the box, this could be a penalty. No call by the refs so far and the Caras Sidh defender kicks the ball out of bounds. Let’s take another look at that.

*Replay shows Hernandez getting clipped*

JG: Hernandez is notorious for diving, perhaps that is why he did not draw that call.

84th Minute: Diver or not, the crowd just saw that clip on the big screen and they are not happy. They’re booing loudly, protesting the non-call.

88th Minute: This diversion has allowed Caras Sidh to mount a charge. The striker has it outside the box… takes a shot… KICK SAVE by McMARIO!

JG: What a timely save! He just saved his squad a point there.

90th Minute: Gulia has collected the ball and is trying to mount a final charge. He’s streaking up the flank… crosses it into box, a stack of yellow Brazillico jerseys are there but the Caras Sidh player is able to head it away from danger. The ball bounces straight to Luis… its on a silver platter about 25 yards out… takes a shot… OVER THE NET!

JG: That was a skyrocket… it wasn’t even close.

*Final Whistle Blows*

RP: Really, that was rather anticlimactic but this match had a rather exciting end to it.

JG: Indeed, both teams played hard but all they were able to muster up was a draw. Caras Sidh has to be ecstatic with this result, they played in front of a tough crowd and were able to muster up a point. With the effort that Brazillico put up in the first half, I think they’ll take the point as well.

RP: Now to the play of the match.

*Camera cuts to Gulia’s clean sliding tackle in the box in the 78th Minute*

JG: A terrible pass by Gulia set-up this whole play, but great hustle followed up by an even greater tackle saved a certain goal and started the play for an equaliser for Quintana.

RP: Speaking of the teenager Quintana, any thoughts on him.

JG: He was only in the game for around 15 minutes, but he certainly made his impact felt in this match. He only got one shot on goal, but that was a huge shot, which gave Brazillico a point after this first game.

RP: Well, that’s all the time we have for tonight. A late goal by Quintana ties the game up for Brazillico and it ends all square at 1. From San Chavez for Junior Gasol, this is Roberto Puyol saying good night.

Brazillico 1
Quintana 79
Caras Sidh
??? 15

<OOC: Caras Sidh, telegram me and I’ll edit who scored your goal.>

09-06-2003, 02:49

Schedules for Next Matches

Der Angst - Al Quds
Rhaken Kull - GATMOG

Steel Shadows - Dennisov
Shinjo ViCU - The Imperial Navy

Tanah Burung - Runaway Moose
Lunatic Goofballs - Gesamtkuntwerk

Total n Utter Insanity - Lemmitania
Spookistan and Jakalah - Altamira

Giant Zucchini - Spaam
The Divine Llama - Ravenspire

Svecia - Alasdair I Frosticus
Haraki - Oglethorpia

Brazillico - Ariddia
One Red Dot - Caras Sidh

Europa Brittania - Kingsford
Audioslavia - Jurassica

With the tropical storm having moved north of Brazillico, the weather forecast will be much nicer in the days to come.

Forecast for second matches:
San Chavez: 25C, clear
Cordova: 20C, clear, breezy
Terrabella: 31C, sunny and humid
Monte Melini: 20C, dome
San Pablo: 20C, cloudy
Kalita: 23C, clear
Corsa Paso: 25C, clear
Locosi: 24C, clear, humid

Total n Utter Insanity

09-06-2003, 02:55

Interviewer: Lemmitania.

Manager: Isn't that a game?

Interviewer: No, they are your next opponents.

Manager: Are you sure it isn't a game?

Interviewer: Do you know someone called Mike?

Manager: Yeah, he's my brother. Dad said he was a useless good for nothing, so I decided to get him a job here at the World Cup to prove him wrong.

Interviewer: As interesting as this is, what do you think of your next opponents?

Manager: Who’s that?

Interviewer: ...

Svecia

09-06-2003, 03:12

Match Facts for Svecia vs. Oglethorpia

Svecia
Goals - 5
Shots - 16
Shots on Goal - 10
Fouls - 6
Possession - 59%

Oglethorpia
Goals - 1
Shots - 7
Shots on Goal - 3
Fouls - 5
Possession - 41%

*Article from the Vilämna Times*

Svecia Starts Strong
Hat Trick by SvensenSparks World Cup Victory

The Svecian national soccer team started their World Cup off with a 5-1 victory over Oglethorpia last night in Brazillico. Striker Hans Svensen had a hat trick and Captain Karl Goree and Midfielder Peder Kerr added the other two goals. Svecia's first goal came on a header by Goree off a corner kick in the 12th minute and never looked back. Oglethorpia's lone goal came in the 39th minute on a breakaway.

Back in Svecia, crowds took to the streets after the game to celebrate their team's victory, but the Svecian coach did not share their carefree mood. "We started off World Cup II in the same way with a 6-0 victory over Aston Villa but ended up losing the next two games and not qualifying for the second round. We'll need to focus for the rest of the tournament and not look past any other team" he said.

Goalkeeper Matt Fijts echoed his coach's mood. "In the past two World Cups I think we've gotten cocky and have assumed we will win. Especially in WCIII we thought we could beat Moyk in the second round no problem because we had beaten them in the group stage. This time we won't underestimate anyone."

Svecia entered the tournament ranked 11th in the world and looks to move up in the rankings. Svecia currently is in first place in Group F which also contains Haraki and Alasdair I Frosticus. Svecia looks to continue its path to the championship with a match against Alasdair I Frosticus tomorrow.

Oglethorpia

09-06-2003, 04:52

(Granny Slag's commercial plays, then cuts back to the 6:00 PM news)

"Now let's take it down to Junior Garcia and Mike White in Brazillico, with coverage of the first World Cup game. Guys?"

Junior Garcia: Well Mike, we've had a great time down here but Oglethorpia's come off of a two game losing streak.

Mike White: Definitely unfortunate. As you remember, we predicted Oglethorpia really needed to be on top of their defense to make a run in the World Cup. Well that sure came back to haunt them.

JG: For sure. Against Altamira, they gave up three goals and the Svecia game was even worse. Hernandez gave up 5 goals, and we only saw the Midshipmen knock one into the goal once in the 39th minute.

MW: It couldn't have been good for Phillip Bjorn to lead the Midshipmen into their first World Cup game after losing their last qualifying match, though making it into the cup.

JG Speaking of captain's, i'm sure you've heard of this John Thompson fellow.

MW: John Thompson - that drunken-Kingsford keeper?

JG: Yep. Got the Oglethorpian team riled up 'bout being low-budget.

(the camera pans left to team captain Phillip Bjorn in non-soccer garb to Garcia and White's right.)

MW: We'll we've got Phillip Bjorn here from the Oglethorpian team. Phillip, give us your thoughts.

Phillip Bjorn: We'll show those purple-wearing ballers one of these days. Besides, they've gotta make up for their less-than-great preformances some how.

JG: *laughs* Alright alright, so what are your thoughts on the team's preformance last two games?

PB: Well we faced off with a tough Altamiran team. We tried to get the guys together and play some strong defense, but as the last two games told you; we didn't hold up against either the Altamiran or Svecian drives.

MW: Yeah, we didn't see a strong preformance from the offense like in The Amused game.

PB: I wasn't on, and Fitzgerald, Henry and Clay couldn't make anything happen either.

MW: We gonna see anything different next game?

PB: Definitely. We know what we've done wrong, and we're definitely going to get that defense into shape for the next match.

JG: Well Phillip, you've led the team pretty well so far, and should pave the way for s'more wins. Any closing words?

PB: Let's see how far the Kingsfordians go.

(White and Garcia both laugh)

MW: Good havin' ya Phillip these three times in the studio. We wish you the best of luck with the team.

(White and Garcia shake his hand. The camera pans back to White and Garcia.)

MW: That's it for our World Cup coverage in Brazillico. For Junior Garcia, i'm Mike White and that's your World Cup coverage for tonite. See ya tomorrow everyone.

Kingsford

09-06-2003, 05:23

Kingsford Headliner News

DR: "Hello, and welcome to Kingsford Headliner News, on Channel Three. I'm Dan Reeves, and it appears that our ratings are low, so I've caught football fever! Yes, this novelty foam hand and jersey really show my fake emotions well. I wish I were fired. We go live to Gabe Banners in Brazillico. Gabe?"

GB: "Hey Dan, if you're fired, can I have your job?"

DR: "No. It goes to team captain Arwen Nova, who's standing right beside you!"

GB: "Hello Arwen! Welcome to Kingsford Headliner News."

AN: "Hi mom!"

GB: "Yes, go ahead and waste our tape. Arwen, you grew up in Toryo. Tell us about your football history."

AN: "Well, I played for school all through my education. I even joined a traveling regional club team in college summers, the Southern Kingsford Sailors. I also played on the Toryo University team. After my college days were over, I joined Toryo FC, and have played there for 5 years, started for 4, and was captain for 3."

GB: "Tell us about your international football history."

AN: "Internationally, I got my start on the Southern Kingsford Sailors. I've been playing with the Kingsford National team for the latest two years of it's existance, and this year I was nominated captain."

GB: "Can you tell us a little bit about the draw against Audioslava?"

AN: "It was a good game. It was our fault, mainly. You can't blame John, he's a great guy. And a nominal keeper. It's our fault the ball got past the Defense."

GB: "Speaking of John Thompson, what do you think about the last resort bashing done by Junior Garcia, Mike White, and Phillip Bjorn?"

AN: "(laughs) Well, Oglethorpia is our closest out of region ally. I'm sure all of this bashing is just a friendly jabbing.. we'll have to face them in a friendly sometime."

GB: "Absolutely. It looks as if they've called you, me, and John up for a conference too."

AN: "Three on three, eh? Well that should be entertaining to read."

GB: "Yeah. So, what do you think of your next opponent, Europa Brittania?"

AN: "They seam to be strong and swift.. we've just got to play a tight knit defense.. we're probably gonna put a 1-5-4-1 out there, to see how it works."

GB: "Thanks. Well, that's all we have. I'm here with the sober and noble Kingsford Football team, wishing the Oglethorpian team a hangover tomorrow morning. Back to Dan in Kingsford City..."

09-06-2003, 05:55

*Emilio Curtiba walks in to a room by a side door packed with reporters, he takes a seat behind a table and prepares to answer questions from the media*

Reporter 1: Mr. Curtiba, how do you feel about the 1-1 draw against Caras Sidh to kick off the tournament?

EC: I thought we did alright. We had a slow start, but we really seemed to wake up in the second half. I have to give full credit to Caras Sidh though, they're a good side and they didn't crack under the pressure.

Reporter 2: Your next match is against Ariddia, many writers are hyping this as one of the most anticipated matches of qualifying, with two top 20 teams going at each other. Any thoughts on the match?

EC: Ariddia is a proven side with a rich footballing history. We'll have a man marking Singh at all times, probably Sequoia, and we'll have to outhustle them and win the little battles. They won their first game in dominating fashion and we know we'll have to start out better than we did in the Caras Sidh game or else we could be looking at losing this game and being out of the tournament earlier than expected.

*Curtiba takes a sip of water*

Reporter 3: Your subs played well in the Caras Sidh game, do you think any of them will be integrated into the starting line-up.

EC: Gulia, Suarez and Quintana all had great games off the bench. All of these players have great speed and their fresh legs are a great asset in the dying moments of the game. I'm not sure yet if any of them will get a starting spot in the Ariddia game, but I can assure you they haven't seen their last action in this cup.

Official: Well, that's all the time we have for questions.

*Curtiba gets up and walks through the same door he entered, followed by a frenzy of reporters trying to ask him a final question.*

Gesamtkuntswerk

09-06-2003, 06:06

Tiga Burung Times
GROUP PREVIEW

It's already been nicknamed "the group of odd names." Seeded entry Tanah Burung is joined in Group C by Runaway Moose, Gesamtkuntswerk, and Lunatic Goofballs. No group of death here: the three survivors from the qualifiers are unknown quantities at this level.

All three are evenly matched, if their form so far is anything to go by. And their form is all the Tanah Burung scouts have to consider, since a frenzied wave of stadium upgrades at home has consumed the entire football programme budget for this year. (That led to a scandal at home as health care spending was cut to finance the upgrades needed to make the stadiums fit for World Cup V, widening income disparities in Tanah Burung.)

Lunatic Goofballs compiled the best record in qualifying with four wins, a draw and a loss for second spot in their group. This is a team that has made "fun" the watchword of their international play. Then there is Gesamtkuntswerk. Their artful style is a pleasure to watch, particularly the finesse of star goalscorer W.A. Trazom. Runaway Moose is another side that relies on a top player: in the case the man of the squad is MOZ. These last two teams both racked up 12 goals in qualifiers, which raises fears that they will be able to rip through Tanah Burung's creative but sometimes accident-prone defence.

Then there are the Crocodiles themselves. On paper, they should cruise to the top of the group against this unheralded competition, playing in friendly Brazillico, where they have already travelled for a very friendly friendly match. Ranked seventh in the world, they reached the final eight in the last cup and were runners-up in World Cup II. But there are questions about the aging squad. Coach Matan Ruak has made only minor changes to his team. Will the returning veterans be able to hold off the charging new teams who have honed their skills in an exciting round of prelimary games? Only time, as the sages say, will tell.

Tanah Burung starting line-up: three players have been cut from the side. Captain Francisco Alkatiri, who scored the Crocodiles' first-ever goal, has retired. Defenders Teddy Tiro and Marko Lobato have been cut after a disappointing defence record in World Cup III. Here is the new starting line-up...

Goal: Bi Kikere. The keeper once voted most attractive woman in Tanah Burung football is back after an injury in the last cup when Tiro collided with her, and bears the scars of that injury still.

Defence: The new defence team is anchored by brother-and-sister team Niko and Dita da Cruz. They are joined by Hasan Hunu and first-timer Alex David.

Midfield: Syahnun is the general here, the playmaker who it is hoped will build the team's attacks. Mau Martinho and Hasan Alhamid are also back, and new recruit Joao Santos fills out the midfield.

Strikers: Ab Francisco, the team's top scorer with four goals in the last Cup, has been named as the new team captain. Joining him on the attack will be Oan Ini Marçal.

(ooc: since Gesamtkuntswerk has written a great match report, i'll skip reporting on the game here)

Codova, Brazillico.

Kent: Hello and welcome to the first round of the Official World Cup Four Cluster match. I'm Kent.

Mayo: And I am Mayo. We're broadcasting live from Cordova Park in beautiful Cordova, Brazillico.

Kent: And what a beauty of a day it is! Boy, any nicer and I'll need to be treated for hypothermia, Mayo.

Mayo: Hardly! Why, there are places in Gesamtkuntswerk where such weather would be most welcomed!

Kent: Well, we're here and not there; I'd sooner do without this weather.

Mayo: We might be able to complain about the weather, Kent, but there's nothing we can do about it.

Kent: Nor can the teams! A Heartland favorite, the Gesamtkuntswerk Sturms have shown promise by advancing past the qualifying rounds and making it to this match today.

Mayo: And boy, what a match it's shaping up to be! The Sturms are facing Tanah Burung, one of the eight instant qualifiers.

Kent: Well, our boys are looking to put up one helluva fight. Coach Moyl drilled the team with new tactics and strategies to better fit the heightened level of competition.

Mayo: ...There goes the coin toss.... Looks like TB starts in possession.

Kent: ...Players are hitting the field.

Mayo: And the kick off. TB are in control of the ball, pushing forward cautiously into the Sturm's defense zone.

Kent: Idlaviv moves up, puts some pressure on the forwards.

Mayo: TB has excellent ball-player coordination. They're obviously a team that's been together for a while; they know themselves inside and out.

Kent: And it's definately paying off for them now. Ten minutes into the game and the ball's been in the Sturm's for seven.

Mayo: Those TB forwards are really pushing our guys hard, especially Ab Franc-

Kent: Idlaviv trips! The ref's don't call it... Ab Francisco is pushing forward.. shoots.. THEY SCORE! Francisco scores the first point in today's match for TB!

Mayo: The TB fans are really going wild. Sixteen minutes and a point for TB. The Sturms are going to have to put the pressure on them to get that point back.

Kent: And there they go. They really ARE pushing hard! Just look at them move! TB defense is putting a stop to their gusto, though.

Mayo: ...And it's out of bounds on the Sturms. TB throws it in... they start pushing again....

Kent: Zoilreb gains control! He passes it up the line... it's back in TB territory.

Mayo: Ball's really moving around down there... TB, Sturms, TB, Sturms... there's the opening! Trazom makes the move, shoots... STURMS SCORE!!!

Kent: The crowd is really going ballistic here. Thirty four minutes into the game and it's been non-stop action for everybody.

Mayo: ...And it's halftime. Wow, what a half.

Kent: You're telling me. I'm just sitting up here talking about it and I worked up a sweat!

Mayo: Yeah, it's quite a workout trying to keep yourself in that seat. Both teams are showing a level of exuberence and love for the game that I find myself envying.

Kent: They might see it as an artform, but this is definately a clash of genres that are making the fans go wild.

Mayo: Well, that's what people get when they come to see Gesamtkuntswerk: a Complete Work of Art.

Kent: And the second half started! The Sturms are in control... they're moving up on TB again.

Mayo: Yeah, this definately has the makings of another incredible rou- TB has control! They're pushing it back into Sturm territory.

Kent: ...And that's a yellow card on Rimsky Karsikov. He's been playing it aggressive the past couple of games; he really wants that win.

Mayo: There's the kick... TB in control after a couple of minutes of uncertai-

Kent: GOAL! A shot made off the Sturm's goalpost by Oan Ini Marçal puts TB back in the lead with only twenty-five minutes left.

Mayo: Oh boy, Trazom doesn't look to happy about this. He wants that win, too.

Kent: He's certainly playing that way. The pressure's back on the TB defense... he's cutting his way deep into that line.

Mayo: Surprise pass wayyy back to M. Dellsohn, substituting in for Nipoch. What was he thinking? He had it clear.

Kent: Oh my God! Long kick pass up the center, back to Rimsky Karsikov, headed to Trazom, GOAL!!! AMAZING ASSISTS BY RIMSKY KARSIKOV AND M. DELLSOHN AND SHOT BY W.A. TRAZOM PUT THE STURMS RIGHT UP THERE WITH TB!

Mayo: Now I can't keep myself seated! With only seven minutes left on the clock, either team still has a chance for victory.

Kent: TB's in control. Their offense pushes up onto Sturm territory....

Mayo: Idlaviv is keeping them on their toes. At this rate-

Kent: And there's the whistle. What a disappointing end to an exciting game, with TB and Gesamtkuntswerk tied at 2-2.

Mayo: Both teams seem to be pleased with their performance nonetheless.

Kent: Well, our boys should be, at any rate. TB was in the top eight last WC; a draw is in many ways a victory for our first-time-out team.

Mayo: The next round has yet to be announced, but it looks like, whoever they may be, they'll have quite the surprise in store for them.

Kent: Oh, you bet, Mayo. With this tie, both teams are easily still contestible to move on to the final round. The tie makes it more interesting for both teams, and makes the games to come that much more anticipated.

Mayo: Until then, I'm Mayo.

Kent: And I'm Kent, live from Cordova, Brazillico.

Mayo: Thank you for watching, and good night.

09-06-2003, 06:42

Results after the first flight of matches:

Der Angst 1 - GATMOG 1
Al Quds 2 - Rhaken Kull 1

Steel Shadows 2 - The Imperial Navy 2
Dennisov 3 - Shinjo ViCu 0

Tanah Burung 2 - Gesamtkuntwerk 2
Runaway Moose 0 - Lunatic Goofballs 0

Total n Utter Insanity 3 - Altamira 4
Lemmitania 2 - Spookistan and Jakalah 0

Giant Zucchini 0 - Ravenspire 0
Spaam 2 - The Divine Llama 2

Svecia 5 - Oglethorpia 1
Alasdair I Frosticus 2 - Haraki 2

Brazillico 1 - Caras Sidh 1
Ariddia 3 - One Red Dot 0

Europa Britannia 1 - Jurassica 2
Kingsford 3 - Audioslavia 3

GROUP A W D L GF GA GD PTS
Al Quds 1 0 0 2 1 1 3
Der Angst 0 1 0 1 1 0 1
GATMOG 0 1 0 1 1 0 1
Rhaken Kull 0 0 1 1 2 -1 0

GROUP B W D L GF GA GD PTS
Dennisov 1 0 0 3 0 3 3
Steel Shadows 0 1 0 2 2 0 1
The Imperial Navy 0 1 0 2 2 0 1
Shinjo ViCu 0 0 1 0 3 -3 0

GROUP C W D L GF GA GD PTS
Tanah Burung 0 1 0 2 2 0 1
Gesamtkuntwerk 0 1 0 2 2 0 1
Runaway Moose 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
Lunatic Goofballs 0 1 0 0 0 0 1

GROUP D W D L GF GA GD PTS
Lemmitania 1 0 0 2 0 2 3
Altamira 1 0 0 4 3 1 3
Total n Utter Insanity 0 0 1 3 4 -1 0
Spookistan and Jakalah 0 0 1 0 2 -2 0

GROUP E W D L GF GA GD PTS
Spaam 0 1 0 2 2 0 1
The Divine Llama 0 1 0 2 2 0 1
Giant Zucchini 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
Ravenspire 0 1 0 0 0 0 1

GROUP F W D L GF GA GD PTS
Svecia 1 0 0 5 1 4 3
Alasdair I Frosticus 0 1 0 2 2 0 1
Haraki 0 1 0 2 2 0 1
Oglethorpia 0 0 1 1 5 -4 0

GROUP G W D L GF GA GD PTS
Ariddia 1 0 0 3 0 3 3
Brazillico 0 1 0 1 1 0 1
Caras Sidh 0 1 0 1 1 0 1
One Red Dot 0 0 1 0 3 -3 0

GROUP H W D L GF GA GD PTS
Jurassica 1 0 0 2 1 1 3
Kingsford 0 1 0 3 3 0 1
Audioslavia 0 1 0 3 3 0 1
Europa Brittania 0 0 1 1 2 -1 0

Total n Utter Insanity

09-06-2003, 06:43

OOC: the only team to score 3 and lose :roll:

Gesamtkuntswerk

09-06-2003, 06:55

OOC: By my count, eighteen teams tied....

09-06-2003, 06:59

OOC: By my count, eighteen teams tied....

OOC: Yeah, I like ties, it makes the groups a lot more interesting. Liking ties had no bearing at all on the results though, that was how the results came up.

Kingsford

09-06-2003, 13:37

OOC: What's the formula for the outcome of the games, incase I want to hold a smaller, regional tourney, or some friendlies?

Spaam

09-06-2003, 14:12

Table updated :)

:!: http://galileo.spaceports.com/~wffs/wciv.html :!:

09-06-2003, 14:41

Water, orange slices, and both peanut butter and cheese crackers are available for all participating nations at Soccer Mommies Pavilion.

:D

09-06-2003, 14:51

*Team Goofball practicaly sets up camp in the Soccer Mommies' tent between practices.*

The Imperial Navy

09-06-2003, 15:18

*Celebrates a close draw*

09-06-2003, 15:51

09-06-2003, 16:05

After the Caras Sidh game, several reporters flocked to susbstitute defenseman Gulia, who was instrumental in the Brazillico draw. Known to be good for a quote and to have a rapier tongue, Gulia stirred up the football scene yet again with this quote on their upcoming match against Ariddia.

"I mean, they have girls on their team... how hard can it be to beat them? I don't know why a country would resort to get chicks on a team, maybe because their male players just aren't up to snuff."

Whether this quote was supposed to raise the spirits of the Brazillico players or not, it has certainly caused a stir in the international footballing community and making feminists refer to him as "The Vijay Singh of football".

The Brazillico Football Association has quickly released a statement saying the thoughts expressed by Gulia were his own and do not reflect the views of the association. They say his words were, "mistimed" and "chauvenistic", but have not suspended him to do his comments.

We'll see if Gulia's words adds fuel to the fire of the Ariddia/Brazillico game, which will take place tomorrow at San Chavez International Stadium.

Tanah Burung

09-06-2003, 17:05

Babble Sportsnet brings you an interview with Matan Ruak, coach of the Tanah Burung Crocodiles!

Jack McMurdo: Mr Ruak, a draw to open. You must be disappointed eh?

Matan Ruak: Our team struggled valiantly. The enemy was worthy, and we are content with the result.

McMurdo: But surely the rest of your group are easy prey for a top team like yours? C'mon, dude, you should be slaughtering them!

Ruak: To resist is to win. Gesamtkuntswerk plays football as if they were writing a poem: every play is graceful, their technique is flawless, their spirit is strong. There are no weak teams at this level of competition. We played our game: when the enemy advanced, we fell back but always resisted, and when the enemy faltered we struck like a crocodile. Remember, we have never opened a World Cup with a win, yet we have always resisted and always been strong. We are not discouraged, we shall fight on.

McMurdo: Yabbut, what about those geriatrics you're fielding? Are they up to that pseudo-guerrilla rigmarole any more?

Ruak: Age is a state of mind. We shall fight, as I say. Perlawanan continuer, as we say: the struggle always goes on. My players are dedicated, and committed, and that is all that truly matters.

McMurdo: Matan Ruak, folks, the wacky Crocodiles coach and political commissar, ha ha. At any rate, Group C is all tied up after the teams all tied their games. We'll see how they fare in the next match when they switch stadiums. The forecast is fair to good -- we'll see if the Crocodiles can say the same after their next big test.

Total n Utter Insanity

09-06-2003, 18:59

OOC: What's the formula for the outcome of the games, incase I want to hold a smaller, regional tourney, or some friendlies?

The formula I use is that every team gets 10 attacks (A number between 0 and 1000) and a team's defense is rated using the formula.

D= 900-(Rank/500)

Or you can use the WC3 one, but that makes more 0-0 draws (12 attacks between 0 and 1000 D=900-(Your Rank-Opponents Rank)

Lemmitania

09-06-2003, 19:10

09-06-2003, 19:18

defeat at the hands of Al Quds.

OOC: Feet would be more accurate, surely?

09-06-2003, 19:48

*contacts Lemmitania about hiring Gil to host the next season of 'Win, Lose or Die!' on GTV.*

On being informed of the offer Gil had this to say:

"Oh, that would be loverly. Just 'ave them send round someone wit' a contract. Oh, waitaminit, 'ere, wot's all this about dying, then?"

Huh? Oh, long story. The short version is that the show was originally called, Obstacle Course Challenge. But about halfway through the first season, one of the contestants drowned in a pool of quicksand. A few episodes later, another contestant was eaten by a crocodile. Well, not so much eaten... just chewed up a bit. We recovered most of her.

ANyhoo... We decided that in the interest of safety, we would rename the show, and up the prize values. :D Deaths are actually quite rare. No more than two or three a season.

09-06-2003, 20:10

defeat at the hands of Al Quds.

OOC: Feet would be more accurate, surely?

Undoubtedly 8)

09-06-2003, 20:17

:wink:

Europa Brittania

09-06-2003, 23:41

10-06-2003, 03:07

(OOC: er is it me or did I see that I was playing Kingsford, and not Jurrassica, and only got telegrammed the result for a game against Jurrasica, Ive been out of the loop for a day or so and Im a little lost, also, does this put me out then?)

<OOC>Look back to page 12 of this thread. Your first match was against Jurassica and you were telegrammed the result before it was publicly stated, to allow time for roleplay. Your next match is against Kingsford. Good luck! btw... you are not out, check your Group standings for more information on where you stand.
</OOC>

Spaam

10-06-2003, 03:08

i.e. go here:

Table updated :)

:!: http://galileo.spaceports.com/~wffs/wciv.html :!:

Lemmitania

10-06-2003, 03:16

Huh? Oh, long story. The short version is that the show was originally called, Obstacle Course Challenge. But about halfway through the first season, one of the contestants drowned in a pool of quicksand. A few episodes later, another contestant was eaten by a crocodile. Well, not so much eaten... just chewed up a bit. We recovered most of her.

ANyhoo... We decided that in the interest of safety, we would rename the show, and up the prize values. :D Deaths are actually quite rare. No more than two or three a season.

The Lemmitanian Ministry of Foreign Television Contracts reports that Gil had this to say in reply:

"Ooooo! Obstacle Course Challenge! I used to watch that on the late-night telly, didn't I? I'm all in for it!"

In the interest of fairness, he's prepared an audition tape, the transcript of which is available here:

http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=591583#591583

10-06-2003, 05:58

(OOC: er is it me or did I see that I was playing Kingsford, and not Jurrassica, and only got telegrammed the result for a game against Jurrasica, Ive been out of the loop for a day or so and Im a little lost, also, does this put me out then?)

To Europa: That was just the first game in Round Robin, you still have two games left before you see if you've survived the group stages or been eliminated.

10-06-2003, 06:12

Alright, all the results have been sent out except for the Ariddia match, those will come when TnUI gets around to doing them.

Oglethorpia

10-06-2003, 06:20

(OOC: er is it me or did I see that I was playing Kingsford, and not Jurrassica, and only got telegrammed the result for a game against Jurrasica, Ive been out of the loop for a day or so and Im a little lost, also, does this put me out then?)

To Europa: That was just the first game in Round Robin, you still have two games left before you see if you've survived the group stages or been eliminated.

Top 2 I assume? (I just telegrammed Haraki, we'll organize the RP and probably post it tomorrow.)

Ravenspire

10-06-2003, 07:31

KM: ...The platypus could not be reached for comment. Now we turn to sports coverage. Here with some commentary on today's World Cup match is Michael Black.

MB: Thank you, Kath. Fans across the nation are rejoicing, as Ravenspire's team picked up its biggest win yet. The Ravens, normally a low-scoring, defense-focused team, took to the offense in a big way in their game against The Divine Llama and racked up an astonishing 5-0 win. That even beats the memorable rout of Spookistan and Jakalah during the qualifiers, Kath.

KM: I don't think any of us were expecting to see Ravenspire pull off another win like that, Mike. Can you tell us more about what happened to bring it about?

MB: Well, unlike the match against S&J, it wasn't explosive from the start. This one started out quietly, almost like the previous game against Giant Zucchini, but it built rapidly. If you were watching the game, you saw that Ravenspire started out heavily on defense.

KM: Right. That tactic served them well against Giant Zucchini, and throughout the qualifiers. I'm not surprised they're playing cautiously, after their early elimination last year. They've been doing quite well for themselves so far, and they want to move up to the next round.

MB: Today's game certainly helped with that. But you're right, and the reason I pointed that out is, shortly into the game, you could see the change in the Ravens' tactics. As we remember from the qualifiers, The Divine Llama is an erratic team that generally throws everything it has into offense, and tries to outscore its opposition, right?

KM: That did seem to be the case, Mike. They amassed a 3-3-0 record during the qualifiers, allowing nearly three goals per game, as I recall.

MB: Well, about... fifteen minutes into the game, maybe, the Ravenspire team suddenly turned more aggressive. They must have known about the Llamas' reputation, but they played it cautious anyway until they saw for themselves. After that... well, the Ravenspire strikers just took their defense apart, and Ravenspire's defense still managed to keep them from scoring in return. A very bad day for the Llamas, Kath, and unless Spaam manages to upset Giant Zucchini, this may have sealed their fate for this Cup.

KM: Meanwhile, it helps Ravenspire, who were last in the group following a scoreless draw against Giant Zucchini and really needed a few goals-for to help cement their chances in case of another draw. I see Amara Akizuki scored another two goals.

MB: Yes, the first one at 23 minutes, and a penalty kick at 64 minutes. Each of the three other strikers got credit for one goal -- Zhen Sui-Ling at 55 minutes, Matt Roker at 69 minutes, and even Paul Lowell gets one in there at 80 minutes. And now they're to face Spaam in the final game.

KM: Let's wish them luck, Mike. Meanwhile, in local sports...

Kathryn Malley and Michael Black, reporting for RNN

10-06-2003, 08:36

Snippets from WGTV radio

"Seems like a good day for football. But not a very good day for Team Goofballs, I'm afraid. Seems They will be playing without Team Captain, Barry Greenman, who will be spending the remainder of the week in jail. Seems that there is quite a colorful list of charges, which I shall not read in case his family is listening. Oh, hell. I'll read one. He allegedly shat on a policeman. Bad form, Barry."

As the game gets started...

"The twins, Fritz and Dennis seem rather sluggish. Possibly a hangover, but that never slowed them before. And the Gesa... Gesoo... the other team's goalkeeper makes a great play, pounsing on the ball. He sends it upfield ...oh, no. Hoch tripped up, Moran... missed the save, Gesooo...um... they score. 1-0. Excellent job. Took full advantage of that opportunity."

...twenty minutes and two scores later...

"The crowd is turning nasty. The Goofballs are playing like they got lead blocks in their shorts. Down 2-0, they haven't had much oomph. Moran looks deflated. It's not going well at all."

...it's always darkest before...

"Fritz and Dennis push forward, tackle misses, Fritz shoots.... GOAL!!!! Beautiful shot! Oh, dear... Fritz, what are you doing, you fool? You can't moon the goalie... aah. Red card. Bad timing. Just as the dominos looked to be falling into place. Seems there's a rabid badger loose on the field... no, that's the Gesa...um... the other team's head coach. Moyl, was it? He seems to be upset at Fritz... dunno why. Well, the game must go on."

...tick-tock...

"Still down by one, Dennis to Gregor, Gregor shoots, saved. Wait, Dennis striks it, to Gregor... GOAL!!! We're tied up! And not a moment too soon. Dennis! No! Oh. whew. Dennis reached for his shorts, and I thought for a moment... but it seems he was just teasing. The Gesoo... the other team doesn't seem amused."

...time running out...

"Whistle will blow any moment, Dennis to Gregor. Gregor knocks it back to Jeramy. Jeramy to Gregor, Gregor slips past the defender, to Dennis! Dennis shoots! GOAL!! What a shot! But there's still time. Okay, enough dancing boys. Gesa..... they got one last chance. Whoa, and they're taking it! The Goofballs are running around like chickens on fire. This is it, last chance, shoot, Moran saves! Moran saves!! Wait, Oh, no! It's intercepted on the pass, this is not good... Ah, there's the buzzer. Game is ovr, and not a moment too soon. Final score, 3-2. Goofballs pull out a squeaker. This was a great one. Shame Barry missed it, but I'm sure he's being kept entertained. Heh. G'night folks. Thank you, Gesamtkuntswerk for a well played game. What? Of course I said it right! What's with all the laughing! Sod off!"

...show ends.

Europa Brittania

10-06-2003, 10:19

Its World Cup Review, Live on S-Net with your hosts Mikel Arild & Dave Zander.

MA: Thats right, you join us but minutes from Brittania's first World Cup match of the new Campaign. Jurrassica is up next, a team we've faced only once before in group competition, and were held to a 0-0 draw.

DA: Aye, a fairly calammatious wee turnaroond gain' doon en'

MA: Hoping for a better result this time round anyway, so Brittania will line up :

Reeves

Jones Cannon Stacey

Uqhuart Junon McHilton Kahno(C) Simmons

Lionel Zurich

Lining up in 3-5-2. Uqhhuart & Simmons as the wide men.

DA: ach weel.

MA: We take you straight to the action now, kick off.

DA: bralliant stuff big man..

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

Europa Brittania V Jurrassica.

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

00:01: Brittania win the coin toss, and kick off.

07:00 MA: And theres the first Brittanian attack, Stacey sends a long ball upfield to Junon, who lays it back off to Zurich, holding the ball up well, frustrating defenders, backheels it to Lionel, he takes a touch and strikes! inches wide of the Jurrassican left post, close stuff there.

DA: Aye that wisnae sae far away ken, reminds me oh mah days playin fer the tartan army.

12:00 MA: and now the Brittanian defence will be tested, Jurrassica take the corner, the ball floats in, Cannon's lost his man, who rises above him and powers a header goalwards, Reeves leaps to his right, and claws the ball away from goal, spectacular save from the thirty year old!

DA: Aye.

17:00 Brittania forward now, Kahno with the ball, some vital work from the veteran Midfielder, Kahno to McHilton, McHilton passes to Simmons, who accelerates towards the byline, what startling pace from the winger, he leaves the centre forward for dust, and sends in a tempting cross, but the Jurrassican keeper is well on it, and catches it midflight.

23:00: MA: the game is being played in the Midfield for the most part, with little in the way of attack.....Have I spoken to soon, Jurrassica now moving forward with the ball, brilliant feign to take it round the hesitant Cannon, whose not having his best game in Brittanian colours, Reeves desperatley comes from his goal to narrow the angle, but its a brilliant chip, Its well over Reeves, its a goal to JURRASSICA.

DA: Bugger.

MA: You can't say that on National TV Dave.

DA: Ah Jist did.

28:00: Brittania still reeling from the loss of the goal, and clearly the back three are not drawing confidence on the less than brilliant performance of the central defender Cannon, whose blowing hot and cold today.

35:00 Reeves safes at the feet of the Jurrasican Forward after clever play from their midfield.

HALF TIME.

Brittania 0 Jurrassica 1.

45: Kick off.

52:00 Brittania moving downfield, Junon back to Cannon, Cannon with a long, long ball to the right, picked up by Uqhart, held up, Lionel the reciever of the ball, accelerates into the Jurrasican half.....still Lionel, bearing in on the Penalty box, hes round the Centre forward, and the right back! Good skill used, he's twenty yards from goal, hes got Zurich and Kahno with him, he might not need him......He strikes! Its goalward, the Jurrasican Keeper dives, but theres no way he can get across goal in time, and its in! LIONEL level things for Brittania!

60:00: Jurrasica are playing a patient game, not too inclined to rush up the field and give away possesion. Sections of the crowd are making the performance of Cannon today their main cause of concern.

70:00. Jurrassica free kick hits the crossbar with Reeves well beaten, Brittania under immense pressure, unable to mount a counter attack.

83:00 Jurrassica again, darting, their inside the box, the Forwards about to pull the trigger....OH thats a clumsy challenge by Cannon, very untidy, the referees blown a whistle, Cannon has conceded a penalty six minutes from time! IN addition to that, hes been shown the Red card for a tackle deemed to have stopped a direct goalscoring oppertunity, it was the right call. The crowd are booing and hissing at Cannon, his face ghosted. Reeves dances on his line, the kick is taken, the stadium silenced.........Its blasted past Reeves, JURRASSICA Score, and surely now take three points.

88:00 Constant Jurrassica pressure, with only ten men Both Zurich And Lionel are back to defend, with no oppertunity to get forward, the form of Reeves and the great workmanship of the remaining defenders is stopping Jurrassica scoring any more. Its been disappointing from a Brittanian viewpoint, but a credit to Jurrassica who have played very well, and deserved the victory.

91:00 FULL TIME

FINAL SCORE

Europa Brittania 1 Jurrassica 2

Lionel 52

(Cannon Dismissed 83)

The Imperial Navy

10-06-2003, 10:19

Another draw? AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

Dennisov

10-06-2003, 13:25

The Worldcup now really on its way.

The first game, we really need a win to start off on the right foot. A win, at least, is crucial.

The first game against Shinjo ViCu.
Upon investigation the scouting had absolutely no clue about this opponent. Therefor it was deemed appropriate to start carefully. After watching some other games, it was decided that for this one, a 5-3-2 was most probably most effective. The extra defender could always be substituted by an extra midfielder or perhaps even an extra striker.

The game started calmly, both teams probing their opposition, weary not to get an early goal against. However this did happen to Shinjo ViCu, as after 6 minutes of play, their goalkeeper had to get the ball out of the back of the net. A brilliant start!
Not soon after this opener, the score was 2-0 after a mistake of the referee allowed Dennisov to break away and go one-on-one with the Shinjo ViCu goalkeeper, the striker left him no chance.
Dennisov, apparently quite pleased with their two goal advantage, let the other team keep the ball, but no real chances were created.

The second half was much the same. However an extra midfielder for Shinjo ViCu did give the team more control. A shot on the post and a header off the crossbar warned the Dennisov players that more work had to be done.

The Dennisov Team manager then brought in another attacker, sacrificing the extra defender. The immediate result was that the game shifted from a passive passing game, to a more direct one. In the 79th minute, the subsitute took a long range effort which miraculously ended up in the Shinjo ViCu goal.

"A marvellous start of our campaign" the team manager told this reporter.
"This surely is our ticket to qualification!"

Surprised with this result the people of Dennisov have been seen buying all sorts of memorabilia for this WorldCup.

Runaway Moose

10-06-2003, 14:15

G: Wow Liz. That was... wow.
L: Yes, but there is NO shame in losing to the team ranked 7th in the world. Remember, going into this we were 45. And that was a close game.
G: Very true. And hey, while we only had one goal... WHAT a goal.
L: Yeah. It was a perfect play by MOZ and Tinesta. Tinesta is really starting to flourish under MOZ's wing. Tinesta actually gives full credit to MOZ for honing his skills, and says he's never even dreamed of playing with MOZ, let alone scoring off of her assist.
G: Oh yeah! That's right, MOZ offered her first ever interview earlier today, and came in just long enough to state "I'm not a man." Then went back to getting ready for the game. We didn't even have time to get the tape rolling. But we were in the same room. It was glorious. But are we sure MOZ is a girl?
L: Um, no... But MOZ is MOZ, and that's all we need to know.
G: Right. Anyway. Tanah Burung brought an impressive side to this match, as we all knew they would. They drew first blood and it was early, that was the 3rd minute right?
L: It certainly was. Ab Francisco had a brilliant volley off of an assist from their new midfielder, Santos.
G: I thought Moosejaw had it.
L: It was close, but the line of vision was blocked by Taiga, and Moosejaw just wasn't able to come up with it.
G: Sigh
L: Hey, don't get so down kiddo. We have another game to play, and we did good. You know, they are ranked 7th. They made it to the final 8 last go. We need to give our team some credit. And you too! You are doing much better with the commentary.
G: Really? Well, I've been hanging out with your dad. He's pretty cool. But yeah. We did okay. We held them off for the rest of the first half. The team rallied behind their captain, national darling MOZ, who if she's a girl, I am totally going to marry.
L: Right. But they did. The players are all really stepping up this year, compared to our past showings internationally.
G: And they came back with a fire under their seats for the second half, didn't they?
L: Well, there was a fire somewhere. I wish I could've been in the locker room.
G: Me too, if MOZ is a girl.
L: Ew.
G: Sorry. But really, They controlled the ball for the first 8 minutes of the second half almost completely, and on top of the goal, they had 4 really great shots, but the Tanah Burung goalie is in a class by herself. Also, she is DEFINITELY a girl, and I would like to state publicly that scars are hot.
L: What, over the MOZ obsession?
G: I'm just trying to cover all the bases.
L: Well anyway, the team was playing really well, but they faltered in the 78th minute, and allowed an unassisted goal by Francisco when Mons saw yellow for that slide. And I really can't even argue with the ref here. Although I normally would. There was nothing dirty on the Tanah Burung side, and the card was much deserved.
G: But the team came back strong. Mons was benched and rather than playing veteran Moos, Antlura got to see some game time, and they managed to stop several more strong attacks by the Crocodiles, even though we only managed 2 more shots on goal, neither successful. Sigh.
L: Well, that's about it folks, final score 2-1 in favor of the Crocodiles. But we can be proud of Alces Rex. The team is really stepping up.
G: Yeah. With one game to go in this round... here's hoping they keep up the intensity. They are more evenly matched against the other team, right?
L: Hey, either way, we played a very impressive game today, and I think that we should feel strong going into our next game. So break out those antler hats, and make the trip to support the team. It's been an exciting experience and Brazillico is a beautiful country.
G: With great food.

Tanah Burung

10-06-2003, 16:49

(ooc: gotta say, fellow group C dwellers, this is a lot of fun... maybe i'll never have to write a match report, yours are so great!)

"... and the balloonist never looked back. Now, here's BSN's Jack McMurdo with the World Cup report."

McMurdo: Oh, it was a babefest over in Brazillico. I can tell you folks at home, the Brazillicans are vivacious and bodacious! This World Cup is turning out to be a non-stop festival, and the games are just the icing on the cake.

Tanah Burung's latest game was a clash of two great woman footballers. Bi Kikere in net for the Crocodiles was a tower of strength, turning back shot after shot from the determined, never-say-die Runaway Mooses. Moose? Meeses? Anyway, she stopped them cold time after time. And on the attack, the flashiest Moose of them all was MOZ. An enigmatic figure, to be sure. We all thought she was a man, and she's just come out as a woman. I can tell you, androgyny turns out to be hot, hot, hot! Anyway, whatever she is, she is an incredible player. She deserved her goal, and could easily have scored another or even two or three more!

I spoke with Bi Kikere earlier:

Bi Kikere: Yes, it is MAC lipstick. My one lapse from buying locally, I hope the fans will forgive me.

McMurdo, looking lovestruck: And your hair, doll?

Bi Kikere: I think that is enough about my appearance. Let me just say that it is not about the so-called stars, not about me or Ab with his two goals today. It's about the team, about struggling together. That is what has always worked for us in the past. God willing, it will carry us far again.

McMurdo: She wouldn't talk about her rumoured relationship with Syahnun, either. What a tease!

At any rate, the Crocodiles are now sitting pretty at the top of the group. Along with Lunatic Goofballs, they have four points. I've consulted a local -- and very attractive, they all seem to be attractive here in Brazillico! -- statistician, and here's the scoop. Both teams will need only a draw to advance, although given their form to date, neither will be happy with the draw. Even if the Crocodiles lose to the Goofballs, then they may still advance, depending on the result of the Moose-Gesamtkuntswerk match. Both those teams have a single point and can earn no more than four in total. So if they draw, Tanah Burung and Goofballs are both through. If the Crocodiles and Goofballs draw, they both go through. If there are no draws, then the loser of the TB-LG match will be tied with the winner of the Ge... the Gesamthing-Moose match, and it will be all down to goal differential. Man, all that math has made my head hurt. Back to the carnival for me!

Spaam

10-06-2003, 17:46

Juan: And welcome to the coverage of the second game of the 4th World Cup of Football from San Chavez stadium in Brazillico!

http://www.sportsvenue-technology.com/projects/daegu/images/daegu_04.jpg

Anny: Yes, and we have a very exciting game for you today, Spaam in their very first World Cup against perhaps the best Footballing nation in the world today, Giant Zucchini. If you remember their first match, Spaam came from behind 2 nil at half time, to draw with The Divine Llama, in a slightly dissapointing match in the coach's eyes.

Juan: Indeed, and last night we saw Ravenspire, another world class team, thrash The Divine Llama 5 goals to none, after keeping Giant Zucchini to a nil all draw a few days ago. This is a very important game for Spaam, who have had trouble starting matches all through the Qualifiers. They need to start off strongly and aim to win this match, because their nect match after this is against Ravenspire, who are on fire!

Anny: Lets look at Group E's table to see how the teams stand at the moment:

[code:1:ee6a1db4e5]
Ravenspire 2 1 0 1 5 0 5 4
Spaam 1 0 0 1 2 2 0 1
Giant Zucchini 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1
The Divine Llama 2 0 1 1 2 7 -5 1
[/code:1:ee6a1db4e5]

Anny: We can see that is Spaam want any chance of getting into the 2nd round, they cannot lose this match. So I expect that they will have to come out flying at the very start.

Juan: But remember that Giant Zucchini are the reigning World Cup champions, and they will wanting to dominate this game as well, especially after only coming up with a draw in their first match. This is definitely going to be a battle of the coaches Lopes and Hurr here tonight. Lets see what Coach Lopes has come up with in terms of line ups:

[code:1:ee6a1db4e5]
(11) Choi (2) Saavedra (14) Widjaja (5) Byshai
(9) Brar (26) Weddam (8 ) Sukkar
(7) Hoopai (3) Nevvytt (17) Ajani
(1) Truun

Reserves: (15) Lee; (10) Sheryn; (7) Hou; (6) Anthon; (12) Drakk
[/code:1:ee6a1db4e5]

Anny: A typical line up there, with Choi again on the starting line up. Looks like Coach Lopes was happy with his supporting role last match, helping Weddam gain his first goal for Spaam. Ok, and here is the Giant Zucchini line up:

http://www.apple.com/games/articles/2002/10/kickoff/images/kickshot5.jpg
....

Anny: Its a clear night tonight, at about 25C, which is fairly warm, but it will be good for the players. And GZ superstar Urk is about to kick off to Giant Zucchini, and its game on! And a brilliant tackle from Hoopai straight away to give Spaam the ball and she is trying to get it up the field....

....

(8th minute)
Juan: Physical Football here tonight and both teams seem to be enjoying themselves immensely as well. Its Poom for GZ with the ball and Brar attempts a tackle and no! Badly executed there, and he's given GZ the first penalty of the game. Poom is going to shoot from 20 metres out, Truun mustn't let them get the first points.... Poom shoots and save! Nice save there from Truun, and its still nil all on the board after 9 minutes....

....

(17th minute)
Anny: Both teams are going hard.... the ball is passed to Urk who slams right into Ajani! Ouch! Weddam is down and it looks like there's some blood coming from his nose.... there's going to be a free kick to Spaam for that, and it seems Lopes is bringing on Lee for Weddam. Lee will take the kick....

....

(32nd minute)
Anny: GZ seriously applying the pressure here.... and the ball is passed to Urk in the clear, who kicks into the corner and GOAL! Urk comes up with the first goal of the game, and Truun had no chance of getting into that.... lets see that again....

Juan: Nice action there from Urk, and that is either pinpoint accuracy, or a lot of luck. Doesn't matter though, because they have the first points on the board.

http://sport-tickets-service-group.com/images/goal.jpg
....

(44th minute)
Juan: Minutes from half time, and Spaam still hasn't gotten the equaliser, but they've started applying their own pressure here.... ball passed back to Nevvytt, who passes straight to Widjaja and its a short jab to Saavedra who shoots and SAVE! Oog dove the right way and denied Saavedra the chance of equalising this match.

Anny: Luck is on Hurrs team tonight, but there is still more than a half of a game to go....

....

(48th minute)
Anny: OUCH! Crushing blow against Hoopai 20 metres out and that is definitely a foul. Ref is coming in and giving a yellow card to the the offending player, and Hoopai gets a free kick from right in front.... She is determined to get the equaliser here.... comes in and feints and shoots and SCORES! What a brilliant goal there from Hoopai, she has completely outsmarted Oog who just went the wrong way, and that is a nice display of Football technique, wouldn't you agree Juan?

Juan: Of course! This Hoopai has been a solid player for Spaam, and I think moving her into Midfield was a good move from Lopes. And best of all, she has come up with the equaliser against Giant Zucchini, and its 1 all in the 50th minute.

http://www.thsweb.com/images_mp/rotate/soccer.jpg
....

(80th minute)
Anny: Both teams have remained scoreless for the past half hour, not being able to get past each other goalkeepers, though there have been plenty of chance, and some nice penalties and corners. GZ is again applying the pressure, with Urk with the ball.... gets past Sukkar.... and he's in the clear! He's making a run.... he's only got Ajani and Truun, but Nevvytt is chasing.... he strikes and GOAL! Urk gets his second for the match and Giant Zucchini are again leading 2-1!

Juan: Truun put his hands on it, but just couldn't hold it, and its gone in goal to give Urk his second goal for the match, and Giant Zucchini a nice chance to wrap up this match.... you can't say it hasn't been exciting though, thats for sure....

http://www.spanishprograms.com/img/soccer.jpg
....

(89th minute)
Juan: Widjaja and Saavedra moving up the center in a familiar formation.... they need to score here with less than a minute left of normal time, and only a few of injury.... Widjaja over to Saavedra... Saavedra over to Widjaja who gets it back to Saavedra who shoots and GOAL! They've done it! Savvedra and Widjaja have finally gotten past the Giant Zucchini defense and brought the game back to an even scoreline here.... lets see that again....

Anny: Yes, this is typical Saavedra and Widjaja play here.... they've been one of the most powerful forces in the Spaam game.... and look, Oog had no chance, Saavedra and Widjaja are just too good players, and they have saved Spaam from a defeat that probably would've kept them out of the 2nd round.

http://www.landsafe.com/images/sports_soccer_goal.jpg
....

(Full time)
Juan: And thats the whistle! Its all over folks, Spaam and Giant Zucchini draw 2 all in an entralling match here at San Chavez stadium. And its nice to see the player being friendly and shaking hands.... fantastic sportsmanship from both teams.... from perhaps the best team in the world today, and a team that is slowly but surely putting its name up there.... Ok, lets look at the table now:

[code:1:ee6a1db4e5]
Ravenspire 2 1 0 1 5 0 5 4
Spaam 2 0 0 2 4 4 0 2
Giant Zucchini 2 0 0 2 2 2 0 2
The Divine Llama 2 0 1 1 2 7 -5 1
[/code:1:ee6a1db4e5]

Anny: Ok, if Spaam loses their next match aginst Ravenspire, they are out of the Cup for sure. If they tie, then they would need Giant Zucchini to tie as well, to make it through. And if they win their next match, they automatically go through. So it all depends on their game against in form Ravenspire. One this we can say though, is that after this cup, Spaam should be one of the top 20 teams in the world, which is a good effort considering this is their first World Cup, and second World Cup Qualifiers. We'll go to a break now, and come back with more World Cup action in just a few minute.

http://www.sportsvenue-technology.com/contractor_images/atkins/Daegu-4.jpg

Spaam

10-06-2003, 17:49

OOC: If I fail my project, I'm blaming it all on you guys.... that was so much fun to write :D

10-06-2003, 19:27

*The camera shows Brazillico and Ariddia’s teams walking out of the tunnel and walking onto the pitch.*

RP: It’s a beautiful day for football here today at San Chavez International Stadium, where we’re set to see Brazillico and Ariddia face off. We have another capacity crowd present, ready to watch this game. For a little more information on this match, here’s Junior Gasol.

JG: After winning their qualifying group and beating One Red Dot in the first match, Ariddia is flying as high as ever. Brazillico will be looking to knock them off their perch, after a less than spectacular start to the tournament with a 1-1 draw against Caras Sidh. This match-up has the talent to be an entertaining quarter final, but we’re being treated to it in the group stage, it should be a good one.

RP: Let’s take a look at the team’s line-ups

BRAZILLICO
Goalkeeper: McMario (1)
Defense: Sequoia(21)
Defense: Roberto (6)
Defense: Cordova(33)
Defense: Fernandez (11)
Midfield: Lopez (2)
Midfield: Marcos (9)
Midfield: Luis (4,capt.)
Midfield: De Jesus ( 8 )
Striker: A. Hernandez (13)
Striker: McGarnicle (14)

Benchwarmers: G-Romario(0), D-Gulia(5), D-Delgado(3), M-Molera(15), M/S-Suarez(12), S-Quintana(16)

ARIDDIA
GK: Michel Boulanger (3, capt)
DEF: Tina Realm (9), Yves Martin (11), Jean Cerf (4), Vic Blau (15)
MID: Michel Legris (8 ), Ranjit Khan (7), Kim Sun-Pak (19), Michel Leschamps (14)
ATT: Terry Singh (16), Raphael Ford (2)

JG: Gulia, one of the heroes of last match and man who made those controversial comments towards Ariddia’s female team members is still watching this game from the bench.

RP: Enough talk for now Junior, this half is about to get underway.

*Play by play by Roberto Puyol*

4th Minute: Ariddia has the ball and are mounting their first major charge of the half. They’re passing the ball well into the Brazillico zone, Sun-Pak kicks one towards Singh in the box… Cut out nicely by Roberto!.. no way was that pass getting through.

JG: Prior to the game, Brazillican manager Emilio Curtiba mentioned they would have a man marking Terry Singh at all times. Looks like Roberto has drawn that difficult assignment.

12th Minute: Brazillico’s pressing on the counter-attack after a midfield blunder by Ariddia. Lopez is running up with the ball, passes it across to Luis, dumps it into the box at McGarnicle. He wins it! Takes a shot.. Scores! 1-0 Brazillico

JG: Trademark finish by McGarnicle. It won’t make any highlight reels but he put it in the back of the net. Every team needs a player like him.

19th Minute: Ariddia pressing looking for the equaliser. Legris has it on the left side… looking for an option in the box… lobs it over to Ford…Roberto comes in for the aerial challenge… they go in hard but Ford gets a head to it.. GOAL!! Ariddia has come right back and tied it up at ones.

JG: Ford and Roberto went into each other hard in the box. Ford appears to have shaked it off but Roberto is laying down on the pitch favoring his shoulder.

RP: Yes, a medical team is coming to the field and this does not look good for Roberto and Brazillico.

*Camera shows Roberto being carted off the field, the shot switches to the Brazillico bench where number 5 is getting ready to go on the pitch.*

RP: A mix of cheers and jeers are coming from the crowd as Gulia goes in for Roberto.

JG: Gulia will be a fine fit to replace Roberto to mark Singh. He is a speedy and tenacious player.

23rd Minute: Ariddia really seems confident now after their first goal. Legris is charging up with the ball… passes it across to Khan. Khan to shoot from a long way out. SAVE! Easy one for McMario, caught it with ease.

JG: That shot nearly insulted McMario, an 8 year-old kid could have stopped a ball coming from that distance.

28th Minute: This game appears to be up and down as we see Brazillico rush up the field again. Luis plays the ball into De Jesus… good ball into Hernandez, backheels one towards net. Stopped by Boulanger! Realm hustles to the ball and clears it out of danger.

JG: That would have gone down as one of the cheekiest goals in World Cup history, and Boulanger did very well to just get a hand on it to avoid that from happening.

34th Minute: Save to say both teams are throwing caution to the wind here as we’ve seen our fair share of chances. Ariddia’s Blau has the ball, passes it towards Cerf. Oh! That’s cut out nicely by Marcos! Passes it over to Hernandez… he’s got Realm and Guildenstern in front of him. He’s outside the box.. shoots… OFF THE UPRIGHT!

*Replay shows Hernandez’s curling effort just curling away from the net and onto the bar and out at the last second*

JG: Close call for Brazillico there. Boulanger was beat, but Hernandez couldn’t keep the shot on target. In a close game like this, that might come back to haunt him.

45th Minute: This game has hit a lull as we’re about to hear the halftime whistle. Ariddia has the ball at midfield and are going to try mount one last charge. Martin has the ball and is looking for an open man downfield. Dumps it off to Sun-Pak.. Sun-Pak plays it into Ford… He Shoots.. DIVING SAVE by McMARIO! Rebound goes back to Ford.. tries again… SAVED AGAIN! Sequoia rushes to the ball and clears it to midfield.

JG: Two quick saves, that first save was a great diving effort. The second save was a fine one as well but Ford could have done more to bury that ball.

*Fulltime whistle blows*

RP: Well, this game has been a close contest so far with the scoreline standing at 1-1. Any thoughts on the game, Junior?

JG: Both teams played true to their styles, taking chances to create scoring chances and that has lead to a tremendously entertaining match of football. We also saw the appearance of Gulia in this half, which I have to say came as a shock, but he has played tremendously since he came in, making Singh a non-factor for the rest of the half.

RP: Gulia is a tremendous defender, it’s too bad his off-field antics tarnish his playing career. Besides Gulia, who else impressed you so far tonight.

JG: Raphael Ford has looked very sharp and has been at the heart of all the quality opportunities for Ariddia so far. He looks to be the future of Arridian football.

RP: Well anyway, that’s all the time we have for now, we’re handing it over to our brothers in Ariddia, for Junior Gasol, this is Roberto Puyol, signing from the nation’s capital.

10-06-2003, 19:49

<Total BUMP post since my previous post didnt seem to do it>

OOC: I'd like to congratulate the participants of the World Cup for their good work so far. We're only halfway through the group stages but we've already broken the World Cup record for posts and views. Keep it up.

11-06-2003, 00:20

:D Thanks! No, I mean it! This isn't just a blatant attempt to disguise a BUMP.

Oglethorpia

11-06-2003, 02:13

Haha.

I t-grammed Haraki about the game, but he hasn't replied.

So hopefully he'll read this, and tell me if he wants to RP the game or not.

If not i'll just do another recap type thing.

Oglethorpia

11-06-2003, 02:20

Bump.

Oglethorpia

11-06-2003, 02:24

Bump.

A bump needed so soon? Yes.

11-06-2003, 03:21

Results for Matchday 2:

Der Angst 1 - Al Quds 0
Rhaken Kull 1 - GATMOG 1

Steel Shadows 1 - Dennisov 4
Shinjo ViCU 1 - The Imperial Navy 1

Tanah Burung 2 - Runaway Moose 1
Lunatic Goofballs 3 - Gesamtkuntwerk 2

Total n Utter Insanity 2 - Lemmitania 1
Spookistan and Jakalah 3 - Altamira 4

Giant Zucchini 2 - Spaam 2
The Divine Llama 0 - Ravenspire 5

Svecia 2 - Alasdair I Frosticus 3
Haraki 1 - Oglethorpia 3

Brazillico 2 - Ariddia 2
One Red Dot 2 - Caras Sidh 2

Europa Brittania 1 - Kingsford 0
Audioslavia 2 - Jurassica 1

Group Standings:

GROUP A W D L GF GA GD PTS
Der Angst 1 1 0 2 1 1 4
Al Quds 1 0 1 2 2 0 3
GATMOG 0 2 0 2 2 0 2
Rhaken Kull 0 1 1 2 3 -1 1

GROUP B W D L GF GA GD PTS
Dennisov 2 0 0 7 1 6 6
The Imperial Navy 0 2 0 3 3 0 2
Steel Shadows 0 1 1 3 6 -3 1
Shinjo ViCu 0 1 1 1 4 -3 1

GROUP C W D L GF GA GD PTS
Tanah Burung 1 1 0 4 3 1 4
Lunatic Goofballs 1 1 0 3 2 1 4
Gesamtkuntwerk 0 1 1 4 5 -1 1
Runaway Moose 0 1 1 1 2 -1 1

GROUP D W D L GF GA GD PTS
Altamira 2 0 0 8 6 2 6
Lemmitania 1 0 1 3 2 1 3
Total n Utter Insanity 1 0 1 5 5 0 3
Spookistan and Jakalah 0 0 2 3 5 -2 0

GROUP E W D L GF GA GD PTS
Ravenspire 1 1 0 5 0 5 4
Spaam 0 2 0 4 4 0 2
Giant Zucchini 0 2 0 2 2 0 2
The Divine Llama 0 1 1 2 7 -5 1

GROUP F W D L GF GA GD PTS
Alasdair I Frosticus 1 1 0 5 4 1 4
Svecia 1 0 1 7 4 3 3
Oglethorpia 1 0 1 4 6 -2 3
Haraki 0 1 1 3 5 -2 1

GROUP G W D L GF GA GD PTS
Ariddia 1 1 0 5 2 3 4
Brazillico 0 2 0 3 3 0 2
Caras Sidh 0 2 0 3 3 0 2
One Red Dot 0 1 1 2 5 -3 1

GROUP H W D L GF GA GD PTS
Audioslavia 1 1 0 5 4 1 4
Jurassica 1 0 1 3 3 0 3
Europa Brittania 1 0 1 2 2 0 3
Kingsford 0 1 1 3 4 -1 1

*I should note that only Altamira has booked a place to the round of 16 an all team are still alive.

11-06-2003, 03:24

BUMP... since the results page didn't bump itself

11-06-2003, 06:51

OOC Forgive my taking so long to respond. Lately I think the Forum's had it in for me on a personal level. Also, I'm going to be away from Thursday-Sunday, IRL.

sigh.

11-06-2003, 08:18

Apologies to all, ey Spookitan...
The RP for Altamira's match will come tommorrow...
A few too many pints after work... extending until 3AM leaves me unable to properly provide adequate RP for such an important match. Hopefully, the 24 hr. delay that I require will sort itself out....
Willl continue shortly...
<belch>
<snore>

Total n Utter Insanity

11-06-2003, 08:20

OOC: I would have RPed the lemmy match but I was in no fit state, I'm still not :?

Audioslavia

11-06-2003, 09:22

ooc: all ive gotta do is draw...

ic: Audioslavia's team captain, Zach De La Rocha, joins an interview with Barry Smavies...

So, Zach, has World Cup Fever hit Audioslavia or WHAT?

Zack: Yea man, all our tickets ahve been sold out, man they were standin in line, gettin their tickets, wavin' tha flag, and got a bullet in their heads..

That reminds me, we really should do something about the hooliganism problem in Audioslavia

Zack: Word up, these punk-ho's think they run the game, but imana learn to burn their bridge an' delete those who compete.... at a level thats OBSOLETE mo'fukka

Yes... Zach please dont swear were live on air

Zack: FUCK YOU I WONT DO WHAT YOU TELL ME!!!!!!!!!!! FUCK YOU I WONT DO WHAT YOU TELL ME!!!!!!!!!!! FUCK YOU I WONT DO WHAT YOU TELL ME!!!!!!!!!!! FUCK YOU I WONT DO WHAT YOU TELL ME!!!!!!!!!!! FUCK YOU I WONT DO WHAT YOU TELL ME!!!!!!!!!!! FUCK YOU I WONT DO WHAT YOU TELL ME!!!!!!!!!!! FUCK YOU I WONT DO WHAT YOU TELL ME!!!!!!!!!!! FUCK YOU I WONT DO WHAT YOU TELL ME!!!!!!!!!!! MOOTTHHHHEERRRFUUCKKKKKEERRR!!!!................. UGH!

quite...... well.... good luck for the push to the second round

Zack aww, thanks man, peace out.

Giant Zucchini

11-06-2003, 12:16

NEWSFLASH:

Giant Zucchini is training hard for its deciding match against The Divine Llama. Head Coach Mr Hurr, "I am not pleased. I am clearly not pleased. This is humiliating for the top ranked country to be struggling in third position against rank outsiders. Something needs to be done, and I will be pushing my team for a win, no less, against The Divine Llama."

The Imperial Navy

11-06-2003, 12:20

DRAWS! *sob*

Do I still have a chance to win?

Dennisov

11-06-2003, 13:05

The second match played against Steel Shadows was a repeat of last year's clash. Then a 1-0 victory, this time a trashing of 4-1.
This second victory ensured qualification for the next round.

The game against Steel Shadows started off poorly. The players were quite confident, perhaps overly so. Steel Shadows forwards were allowed to receive balls without being harassed. The 0-1 thus didn't really come as a surprise.
The quick equaliser ensured that Dennisov had plenty of time to turn the game around. The 2-1 and the 3-1 followed eachother in quick succession, both from well taken corners.
The second half was a poor copy of the first. Steel Shadows once again were able to play the ball around without any opposition. This time though, a poor pass was intercepted on the half way line, a quick and well executed counter, resulted in the final score of 4-1.
The last 16 had now been reached. Unexpectedly after struggling so much in the qualification rounds.

The training showed that the best players of Dennisov were now given the orange vests, when we asked the manager about this, he wouldn't disclose what this meant. This reporter thinks that they will be given an extra day off. We shall see in the last game against The Imperial Navy, a team we already faced before (1-1 draw).

One Red Dot

11-06-2003, 17:02

Welcome to the One Red Dot Tabloid News

Now to Sports News. With one draw and one loss so far, it has been rather disappointing for Kurtner and the Samurais.

In an interview earlier with Kurtner this morning, he said "It's true that we are a new team and we are playing against teams that are of higher calibre, having only scraped through the qualifiers. With one lost and then a draw, the group statistics have been rather disappointing for us, but we still have hope. We know that it might be rather impossible for us to defeat Brazillico, but we will try our best and give them a hard fight."

This is Stu Dyogai signing off.

Ariddia

11-06-2003, 17:46

Tim: "And here we are to comment the second part of the exciting match between Brazillico and Ariddia... Rob, any comments on the first half of the game?"

Rob: "Well, I don't think the score is really surprising. There have been some good opportunities missed on both sides... Anyhow, we couldn't realistically expect to score a great number of goals against Brazillico."

Tim: "There were people booing in the stadium when Gulia came onto the pitch... especially amongst Ariddian supporters. Do you think there's going to be a lot of tension here?"

Rob: "Well, Realm is playing today, and she was reportedly very upset at Gulia's comments. Neither of the other two girls are taking part, but I remember Dubois said something... very explicit about Gulia and his sexist comments."

Tim: "I remember. And Hill refused to comment."

Rob: "She considered such matters shouldn't interfere with the game, I think, and she's probably right."

Tim: "Well, the game is starting again. Interesting, the Ariddian coach has made no substitutions. But then, he rarely does..."

48th minute:
Tim: "Luis has got the ball for Brazillico, and it seems no one can get it off him. Some nice playing here to get past Martin... No, he can't slip past Realm, though. He passes to Hernandez... who evades Cerf... He shoots... No problem here for Boulanger."

55th minute:
Tim: "A daring tackle here, but Leschamps has the ball. He passes it quickly to Kim, who... passes to... It's intercepted. Counter-attack... Sequoia... Lopez... De Jesus... A strike... And again, Boulanger saves it."

59th minute:
Rob: "Ford is moving up fast... passes to Singh... Sequoia is in the way... He passes back, a long pass to Cerf... Gulia moves in... Good defending from Brazillico... Cerf takes it forward... Oh my, he's collided with Gulia! Both men are down, getting up quickly! Looks like an argument here, Tim..."

Tim: "The referee is telling them to calm down... Realm is pulling Cerf back... Look at the way she's glaring at Gulia, though..."

Rob: "So much for keeping personal feelings off the pitch..."

73rd minute:
Rob: "Singh looks unstoppable here, eh, Tim?"

Tim: "Ford has been playing well, too. They say if Singh retires after this Word Cup, Ford will almost be up to his level."

Rob: "True, but everyone hopes Singh will stay on. Singh passes to Ford, he shoots... Ah, what a shame... Just off the bar..."

Tim: "McMario would have got it, anyway."

80th minute:
Tim: "Cerf intercepts from McGarnicle... Ooops, Marcos has got it back... Passes to Hernandez... And Realm intercepts. No, she's lost it... A bit of confusion here... De Jesus has it for Brazillico... and he shoots! It's in!"

Rob: "A magnificent shot, not much Boulanger could have done. And Brazillico is in the lead once more!"

Tim: "Ariddia has got just ten minutes to equalise... They haven't lost a game yet in this World Cup, could they have met their match with Brazillico?"

Rob: "McMario and the others are certainly making things difficult for our boys and girl..."

87th minute:
Tim: "A long shot from Kim to Khan. Sequoia moving in... Khav evades him, moves forward... No, he can't strike. He looks round, passes to Singh right over there... Singh closes in, he's going to... No, he chooses to pass to Ford. And I think they weren't expec- Ford shoots, and GOAL!!"

Rob: "Whew... That's the equaliser we were all waiting for..."

92nd minute:
Tim: "And it's over. Final score, two all. A great match, despite a touch of unpleasantness at one point..."

Rob: "The players are swapping their... Wait, look! Realm is walking over to Gulia. She... She's offering to shake hands. They shake hands. Now that's good..."

Tim: "A nice image to end this match on. From Brazillico, you've been matching Brazillico versus Ariddia. Tune in again soon for the next match... Good night!"

FINAL SCORE
Brazillico - Ariddia 2-2

BRAZILLICO
McGarnicle (12th)
De Jesus (80th)

ARIDDIA
Ford (19th)
Ford (87th)

Lemmitania

11-06-2003, 18:55

...

GROUP D W D L GF GA GD PTS
Altamira 2 0 0 8 6 2 6
Lemmitania 1 0 1 3 2 1 3
Total n Utter Insanity 1 0 1 5 5 0 3
Spookistan and Jakalah 0 0 2 3 5 -2 0

...

*I should note that only Altamira has booked a place to the round of 16 an all team are still alive.

<OOC> How are tie-breakers done? No matter how I figure it, I don't see Altamira having clinched. If Lemmitania and T'n'UI both win, we'd all have six points (sorry, Spookistan and Jakalah)-- in which case it's decided by point differential, isn't it?

Even if it's determined by who-beat-whom, it would come down to point differential, as it'd be T'n'UI over Lemmitania, Lemmitania over Altamira, Altamira over T'n'UI.

Of course, we'll probably lose or draw, which will make it moot. </OOC>

Lemmitania

11-06-2003, 19:00

Dennisov, on the other hand, do appear to have advanced.

Lemmitania

11-06-2003, 19:34

Coming to you from the sovereign nation of Brazillico, this is Shemp Wooley, the Dean of Lemmitanian sports, with the World Cup off-day report. Well, the Lemmings lost their first match since game one of the qualifiers yesterday, dropping a hard-fought match to Total ‘n’Utter Insanity. Here to comment on the game are the two men who failed to show up for the play-by-play, Clem Gilson and Gil Lemson. Nice to see you in the studio, gentlemen.

Clem: Good to be back on terra firma, Shemp.

Gil: Sorry ‘bout that one, Shemp. Won’t ‘appen again.

Shemp: So you’ve had a chance to watch the game, then?

Clem: Yes, our statistician, Mike, downloaded the whole thing from www.crazyaboutlemmitanianfootball.com, where it was broadcast live via webcam.

Gil: They’ve got some crazy wanker out there in the stands beaming the ‘ole bloomin’ game thru the camera on ‘is PDA!

Shemp: Is see. Is that legal?

Gil: I think the more important question is, is anyone going to stop ‘im?

Clem: Three cheers for WiFi!

Shemp: Um… sure. So you saw the game on the web?

Clem: Sure did. It was the quickest game I think we’ve seen all Cup.

Gil: Ended only seventeen minutes into it! A blessed miracle, it was.

Shemp: The match lasted ninety-four minutes, gentlemen.

Gil: …Maybe there was an expurgated version for ‘ome viewing.

Shemp: What does that even mean?

Gil: Expurgated is, like, abridged. You know, wit’ just the juicy bits left in.

Shemp: I know what expurgated means. How could there be an expurgated version of a sports match?

Gil: Wull, imagine if they took out all the boring parts wit’ nothing but runnin’ around and kickin’ the ball in ‘em, and just lef’ the fouls and the goals.

Shemp: Is that what they did?

Gil: Maybe.

Clem: We couldn’t really tell what was happening, to be honest, Shemp. The video camera only had 120x180 resolution, so it made for a very small image.

Gil: I couldn’ see it properly.

Clem: But when we blew it up, it was all chunky-looking.

Gil: A true pointillist nightmare, don’t you know?

Shemp: For all practical purposes, you haven’t seen the match, have you?

Clem: Speaking practically, I’d have to say no, Shemp.

Gil: But in a stric’ly li’eral sense, we’ve seen it.

Shemp: Seventeen minutes of it, anyway. Very well, gents, I presume you’ve at least read the write-up in the dailies?

Clem: Actually, we haven’t. Gil used the entire newspaper to wrap fish in.

Gil: Yeah, they were giving away some nice juicy ones in the ‘otel lobby. I couldn’t pass that one up. Cleaned an’ gutted me an entire bushel of ‘em early this mornin’.

Shemp: They were giving away fish in the lobby of your hotel?

Clem: In all fairness to Gil, yes, they were.

Shemp: What hotel is it you’re staying at?

Clem: The Brazillico Grand.

Shemp: I’ve stayed there. They have a huge fountain in the lobby, right?

Gil: That’s right. It’s close to the fish tank.

Shemp: That’s a fish pond. Are you telling me you cleaned and gutted a bushel of koi from the hotel pond?

Gil: Pond, tank, wotever. They were there for the taking.

Shemp: I can’t believe this. Didn’t any of the hotel staff stop you?

Gil: Why would they stop me?

Shemp: …

Clem: I don’t think any of the hotel staff could see him. They stuck the fish tank in kind of an out-of-the-way little grotto off the side of the lobby. Anyway, not too many of them were awake at three AM.

Gil: Wot’s that gurgling sound you’re doing, Shemp?

Clem: Can someone cut to some important messages?

Total n Utter Insanity

11-06-2003, 19:35

Of course, we'll probably lose or draw, which will make it moot.

OOC: I bet we'll lose too. Looks like it'll be the person who loses the lease :)

Lemmitania

11-06-2003, 21:33

Of course, we'll probably lose or draw, which will make it moot.

OOC: I bet we'll lose too. Looks like it'll be the person who loses the lease :)

Is that a pun on the letter t? we'll have no puns on the letter t.

Mister T
Minister of the Letter T
Borderlands of Lemmitania

Total n Utter Insanity

11-06-2003, 21:39

With the final score TnUI 1 S&J 0, we await the result from the Lemmitania - Altamira match.

[code:1:94d24236f8]
GROUP D P W D L F A GD Pts
Altamira 2 2 0 0 8 6 +2 6
Total n Utter Insanity 3 2 0 1 6 5 +1 6
Lemmitania 2 1 0 1 3 2 +1 3
Spookistan and Jakalah 3 0 0 3 3 7 -4 0
[/code:1:94d24236f8]

TnUI look certain to go through, but if Lemmitania win by 1 goal, its all over.

Lemmitania

11-06-2003, 21:59

Shemp Wooley here, assuring our listeners that we'll have Clem and Gil out in time for tonight's match against Altamira. If anyone knows enough about the Brazillicon legal system to help us get the bail hearing moved up, we'd be much obliged.

Oglethorpia

11-06-2003, 23:43

"On location in Brazillico for your nightly World Cup coverage, we have Mike White and Junior Garcia. Guys?"

Mike White: Thanks Kent. Well the Oglethorpian team has played two games after it's initial matchday loss, and we've got some good news for you folks back home.

Junior Garcia: Do we ever. Coming off a loss, the Midshipmen have rebounded to a win against Haraki and a lucky tie against the veteran team of Alasdair I Frosticus.

MW: Definitely good news and a huge morale boost going into the final day of matches. Joining us in the studio, we have team captain Phillip Bjorn, forward Alfonzo Clay and defender Ed Markey. Welcome guys.

(Mike and Junior exchange handshakes with the players.)

JG: Phillip, Alfonzo, Ed; good to have you guys. Let's start off with the Haraki match on Tuesday. How'd that game go for you guys?

Ed Markey: That game, we definitely got the defense back together. We gave up only one goal, as opposed to 5 against Svecia. Hernandez was definitely on top of all their goal attemps, save for one.

Phillip Bjorn: We considered changing from a 4-4-2 formation to a 3-5-2 to put one more man on midfield. The team decided to put off that change for the Haraki match.

MW: Seems to have worked. Alfonzo, any comments on your play in the 2nd match game?

Alfonzo Clay: Kojima had the ball to me in a great spot. I just kicked it in.

JG: A very nice kick in the 32nd minute. Now how about that Alasdair I Frosticus team?

PB: A tough bunch of footballers.

MW: (laughs) Any pregame strategy to that match?

EM: Well Phillip brought up their experience. These guys are playing their second world cup, and we knew that the defense would be our weak point. It was pretty much unanimous to take Kojima from a forward position and make him play midfield.

PB: The Alasdair I Frosticus team had their ball handing down. I'd say they had the ball 60% of the time, if not more.

MW: The defense was almost too good. Junior, you have any numbers on attempted shots?

JG: The Midshipmen took 3 goal attempts. Alfonzo, did you eventually turn it into a game of ball handing?

AC: Oh yeah. By that time Phillip was on us about focusing on defense. We knew we couldn't score against that defense.

MW: Well it seems you guys are glad to take a tie. Here's to another successful matchday for you guys.

JG: Definitely. That's the third matchday of Oglethorpia's world cup bid, with a 1-1-1 record. A big thanks to Phillip Bjorn, Alfonzo Clay and Ed Markey for giving us their time. We wish them the best, as their Oglethorpian fans do at home. For Mike White, i'm Junior Garcia. See ya next time.

12-06-2003, 00:49

OOC Lemmitania, you rock. LMAO!!!

Svecia

12-06-2003, 03:00

*Article from the Sjöskog Daily Post*

Chaos in Svecia!
Crowds Take to the Streets as Svecia Loses on Goal in 91st Minute

The entire nation of Svecia is in a state of disbelief today as they watched their national soccer/football team playing in the World Cup lose 4-3 to last place Haraki on a goal in the 91st minute. Haraki, which had only one point in Group F before this game, was expected to get blown out by Svecia, ranked 11th in the world. Svecia looked like it was going to win this match too until the last part of the second half. The Svecians let a 3-1 halftime lead slowly melt away as the Haraki offense turned up the pressure.

Haraki scored on a low cross in the 51st minute to cut the Svecian lead to one, and then tied it up on a 20 yard blast in the 78th minute. But the dagger came when Svecian defender Jon Scherf was beaten one on one and the Haraki midfielder chipped it into the center of the penalty area and a forward bicycled it past a diving goalkeeper.

The Svecian coach was not available for comment after the game, but when asked what happened to the team, captain Karl Goree said "It's de ja vous. Our play in this tournament almost exactly mirrored our play in World Cup 2. We won the first match by a huge margin, and then lost the next two group matches by one goal. Unfortunatly we didn't finish the way we had hoped to, but maybe that will be incentive to work harder now to prepare for the next World Cup."

After going into halftime with a comfortable lead, Svecia looked like they had things wrapped up starting the second half. Their lack-luster play coupled with the intense play of the Haraki squad allowed for 3 unanswered goals.

Meanwhile, back at home in Svecia, crowds took to the street following their teams loss and looted cars, stores, and anything that looked lootable. Police were seen joining in the looting. The Svecian Monarch, Karl-Heinz Friedrich, who is touring the nation Middleton, was rushed back to the country to try to restore order. He appeared for a speech in the town center here in Sjöskog, and pleaded for the crowds to calm down and return to their homes. He expressed his disappointment at the national team's loss, but also discouraged the looting that was taking place. The crowds dispersed, but only after burning an effigy of Svecian defender Scherf. Police arrested the burners after the Monarch told them to or face unemployment.

12-06-2003, 05:32

Another disappoing 1-1 draw against One Red Dot has left the hosts Brazillico winless in the tournament, but astoundingly not out of it, as they may make it with 3 points given an Ariddian victory over Caras Sidh.

A dull match, the Brazillicans lacked the passion that saw them progress out of the group stages in the last cup where they defeated Lemmitania 4-0 to do so. Brazillico scored the first goal, a strike by Hernandez in the 38th Minute to put the home side up 1-0.

However, after that the Brazillicans appeared to simply sit on the lead and stopped trying to win the little battles. This allowed One Red Dot to tie the match up in the 64th minute.

"Without taking away anything from the One Red Dot side, that was the worse effort I've seen put forth by the team since I took over as manager," said a visibly disgusted Emilio Curtiba, "I know we're not mathematically out of it, but we deserved to be after a performance like that."

Lemmitania

12-06-2003, 06:04

Coming to you live from the shores of Brazillico, this is Shemp Wooley on the Lemmitanian Radio Network. Tonight, the third World Cup match for the Lemmitania Lemmings, facing off against Altamira with everything on the table. With Total ‘n’ Utter Insanity winning earlier today over Spookistan and Jakalah, the Lemmings control their own fate. Win and advance; lose or draw, and go home. We’re thirty-two minutes from kickoff, and joining me in the studio are the black sheep of LRN, Clem Gilson and Gil Lemson. Clem, Gil, good to see you’ve been released from custody.

Clem: Glad to be here, Shemp.

Gil: Glad to be out of the ‘oosegow. Glad they didn’t find any evidence when the police searched our ‘otel room.

Shemp: They didn’t? What about all those fish?

Gil: Wot fish would those be, Shemp?

Shemp: The fish you stole from the hotel pond, gutted, and wrapped in newspaper.

Gil: I deny all knowledge of any such alleged fish.

Shemp: They didn’t find the fish in your room?

Gil: I deny all knowledge of any such alleged fish.

Shemp: What’s all this denying knowledge of the fish? You said yesterday--

Clem: No we didn’t.

Shemp: You told me yesterday on the air that Gil cleaned and gutted a bushel of fish that he took from the pond at the Brazillico Grand Hotel.

Clem: I deny all knowledge of any such alleged fish. If any mention was made on the air of fish, it was in error and should not be construed as admission of knowledge of the whereabouts of any alleged fish.

Gil: Ditto.

Shemp: But yesterday you said--

Clem: We cannot be held responsible for factual errors in yesterday’s report.

Shemp: ...So the police didn’t find the fish. Fine. Good for you. What of this Altamira team, then? Any thoughts on the Lemmings’ chances against the group D leaders?

Clem: Well, they’ve beaten Total ‘n’ Utter Insanity and Spookistan and Jakalah. They’re a top-notch team, and I can’t say I like our chances.

Shemp: Did you see the world rankings released by Brazillico earlier in the week?

Clem: While I would like to say yes, that would be a falsehood. Much like any mention of fish that might have been made in yesterday’s broadcast.

Shemp: They have the Lemmings 16th, the highest the boys have ever been rated.

Clem: Wow. That was before the loss to T’n’UI, I take it.

Shemp: It was, but still, the boys have been playing at the top of their game all tournament. Before T’n’UI, we’d won five straight. As you know, that’s an amazing feat in a sport where draws are as common as victories.

Clem: It’s remarkable that we’ve had only one draw the whole cup, against Lunatic Goofballs.

Gil: Good ol’ Goofballs. They’re going to shovel money up to me doorstep.

Clem: Don’t count your chickens before they ‘atch, chum.

Gil: I deny all knowledge of any such alleged chum.

Shemp: Let’s take a quick rundown on the group D standings before the match begins. Could we get the group stats? Mike? Say, where’s Mike?

Clem: Uh, Mike’s indisposed.

Shemp: Where is he?

Gil: ‘e’s runnin a li’le errand. ‘e’ll return when the time is right.

Clem: Sally’s agreed to do stats tonight.

Shemp: Okay. For our listeners, Sally Rizzuto is our director. Sally, do you have the group D table? Thank you. So we’ve got Altamira sitting pretty with two wins, six points in the standings, on eight goals for and six against. Then, with three matches played, Total ‘n’ Utter Insanity have two wins against a loss, seven goals for and six against. Six points in the standings. Lemmitania has a win and a loss, three goals for and two against, and three points in the standings. At this point, Spookistan and Jakalah’s out. The situation’s pretty clear, gentlemen.

Clem: Clear as can be.

Gil: We’re ‘osed.

Shemp: Not at all. But we need a win to get through.

Gil: ‘ow can we catch up? We need three points.

Clem: If we win against Altamira, we get three points.

Gil: Even if we don’t score three goals?

Clem: No matter what, if you win you get three points.

Gil: An’ ‘ow many do they get?

Clem: If we win?

Gil: Yeh.

Clem: None. They lose.

Gil: If we win, they lose?

Clem: Yes, if we win, they lose.

Gil: You mean that li’erally or metaphorically?

Clem: What would a metaphorical meaning be?

Gil: You know, one of them sporting metaphors commentators are always tossin’ about. Like, “We’re ‘osed.” I din’t mean we’re li’erally going to be beaten wit’ ‘oses.

Clem: I mean in a literal sense, we’re playing against them, if we win, they lose.

Gil: An’ losin’, they get no points.

Clem: Correct.

Gil: An’ winning, we get three.

Clem: You got it.

Gil: An’ that would mean six points all aroun’.

Clem: I’m surprised you were able to gather that.

Gil: It was no mean feat, lemme tell you.

Shemp: So we’re all straight now? Everyone know where we stand?

Gil: Um, we’re not ‘osed?

Clem: Not per se. If we win, we’ll advance on goal differential.

Gil: Wot’s ‘at, some part of the goal post mechanicals?

Clem: Goal differential. The differential between goals for and against.

Gil: ...You mean the length of the field?

Clem: Goals for and against. It’s got nothing to do with the length of the field.

Shemp: Gentlemen, the referee is bringing the captains out to midfield for the cointoss. Play will begin momentarily, so I’m signing off until halftime. Good luck.

Clem: Shemp Wooley, ladies and gentlemen, the Dean of Lemmitanian sports.

Gil: Is that an official ti’le, then?

Clem: It’s just what he’s called.

Gil: Is ‘e affiliated with a university?

Clem: Not that I’m aware of.

Gil: Sally! Is Shemp affiliated wit’ a university? ...Oh. Thanks.

Clem: For the edification of our listeners, Sally said that Shemp is not affiliated with any university. He is merely the figurative Dean of Lemmitanian sports.

Gil: That would be metaphorically speaking.

Clem: Very good.

Gil: Now wot’s this about a locked differential?

Clem: Goal differential. Goal. It’s the difference between the number of goals you’ve scored, and the number of goals you’ve allowed.

Gil: Ohhhh, like we’ve made three and surrendered two.

Clem: That’s right. So our goal differential would be...

Gil: One.

Clem: Excellent.

Gil: I know subtraction, Clem.

Clem: I know you do. I’m just testing to see if you’ve got the concept down.

Gil: Sure I ‘ave.

Clem: So if everyone’s tied up, the team with the largest goal differential advances.

Gil: Oh. Well, in that case, good news for Spookistan and Jakalah. They’ve been gettin’ clobbered.

Clem: No, it’s--

Gil: Oooo! Lookee! They’ve been kickin’ the ball an’ we di’n’t even notice it.

Lemmitania

12-06-2003, 06:12

Clem: Cripes. Well, Altamira’s got it at the moment, and they’re playing conservatively, just getting a feel for the Lemmings’ speed. Left striker’s controlling it, working toward the top of the box, and passes back to the center, Chang is staying close, he’s got no kind of shot, and it’s back out the the midfielder. Mickelson’s on him, tries for the steal, but he gets away-- a quick pass out to the forward, but Dubrowski kicks it away, it’s across the line out of bounds.

Gil: Lemme know when the goal differential changes.

Clem: Very good. Clever riposte.

Gil: You liked that one?

Clem: Not bad at all. Okay, the toss in is received by midfield, and Wilco Rosco comes out of nowhere and kicks it away. A long floater, and Henneman heads it back to Mickelson.

Gil: A lot o’ kicking ensues.

Clem: True enough.

Gil: Now, while you were jabbering I took a nice long gander at this ‘ere group D table, and I can’t see what the ‘ell you and Shemp were talking about. Explain to me ‘ow all this works, again.

Clem: Look. What are the goal differentials for each team?

Gil: Um... Altamira, two. Total ‘n’ Utter Insanity, one. Lemmitania, one. Spookistan and Jakalah, four.

Clem: Spookistan doesn’t count because theirs is negative.

Gil: Ohhh, so it only counts if it’s positive?

Clem: Well, actually, no, negatives count too, but they count as negative. Spookistan doesn’t have a GD of 4, they have negative four.

Gil: Oo’s kickin’ the ball now, Clem?

Clem: Altamira. So look, if we win, it’s a three-way tie between us, T’n’UI, and Altamira. That means that the team with the largest GD advances.

Gil: Wot’s this GD, now? Like the national Gross Domestic Product? ‘Cause once again, we’re ‘osed, wot with Lemmitania’s imploded economy and all.

Clem: GD. Goal differential. What we’re just spent all this time figuring out.

Gil: Right right right. Okay, largest “GD” as you ‘ave it, would be... um. Spookistan and Jakalah?

Clem: I just told you, they’re right out of it. Look, Heading into this match, Altamira’s got two, T’n’UI’s got one, we’ve got one. If we win, our GD’s at least two--

Gil: Wot ‘appened to one?

Clem: To win we’ve got to score at least one goal more than our opponent, right? Therefore our GD would increase by at least one.

Gil: Wot if we draw?

Clem: Who the hell cares what happens if we draw? If we draw we lose on points.

Gil: Waitaminit. If we draw... we lose? Explain to me again ‘ow the scoring works in football, Clem. I thought I ‘ad it down, but somebody’s flingin’ monkeys into the works.

Clem: I’m talking about the points in the standings. If we draw, we don’t have enough points to advance. So we lose.

Gil: That’d be metaphorically speakin’, then.

Clem: Precisely.

Gil: An’ ‘ere you scoffed at metaphors.

Clem: Oh, for crying out-- we just scored and you made me miss it. You and your stupid metaphors.

Gil: That stupid metaphor was yours, Clem.

Clem: Lemme see if I can figure out what happened-- oh, thank you, Sally. The goal was by Bingson, assisted by Rosco and Rosco. So twelve minutes into it, Lemmitania draws first blood.

Gil: Now we can expect Altamira to pour eveythin’ they’ve got into gettin’ that equalizer. They really need a goal, ‘cause it’s win or go ‘ome time.

Clem: Not really, not for Altamira.

Gil: Oh, yes, of course. Seein’ as they’re atop the standings, all they need is a draw to advance. So we can really expect Altamira to pour everything’ they’ve got into gettin’ that equalizer.

Clem: Altamira can lose and advance.

Gil: Come again?

Clem: If Altamira loses by one goal, they advance. Look at the table.

Gil: Okay. Lessee if I can work this one out. Altamira’s got... eight goals for an’ six against. GD is two. If they lose by one, their GD is... one. Our GD would be... two. T’n’UI would be at... one. One and one. Did I do it right, Clem?

Clem: Remarkably, yes.

Gil: So they’d be tied wit’ Total an’ Utter Insanity.

Clem: And in that case, the team that has scored the most goals overall advances.

Gil: Oy. Wot bleedin’ fool came up with these rules?

Clem: FIFA, I imagine.

Gil: So back to the matter at ‘and, a one-goal victory for Lemmitania means Altamira advances. And a two-goal victory for Lemmitania means...?

Clem: Total ‘n’ Utter Insanity advances.

Gil: Ironic that Total ‘n’ Utter Insanity should be involved, ain’t it?

Clem: I’d just like to inform our listeners that Altamira is once again attacking, still playing it conservatively, but they’re more concerned about controlling the ball, preventing that second goal against, than they are about equalizing the score. It’s interesting because they’ve been such an explosive team offensively for the first two games of the Cup.

Gil: Eight goals!

Clem: Thank you for looking that up, Gil.

Gil: Not at all.

Clem: These teams seem very evenly matched, great speed on the front line for Altamira, contrasting with Lemmitania’s great backfield. The Lemmings have held their opponents to six goals in the past seven matches, and that’s not all Mel Flanders’ doing. He’s helped out by a quick, surefooted defensive four. The Altamiran forwards are just working the ball around the box, looking for an opening, trying to get behind someone and open something up, but the defenders just aren’t giving them anything. A quick kick toward goal, Flanders is there and-- ohhh! The Altamiran striker got ahead of himself, it’s an offside penalty, and we’ll see the ball going back the other way.

(30th minute)

Clem: The pass gets behind Molvo, the forward’s got Chang and Flanders to beat and the shot is-- a goal! A goal! What a rocket shot, right past Flanders, and we’re all tied up at one. Wow, Gil, I don’t think Flanders knew which side of the net to defend, once he got past Chang.

Gil: I suspect that Mel failed to prevent the goal.

(37th minute)

Clem: Henneman fighting the defender for control, and ooh! A nasty tackle comes out of nowhere. That’s a yellow card. And practically inside the box. A break for the Lemmings, I don’t think Henny would have held onto it. And here’s his kick, across to Bingson-- no, it’s Rosco jumping in and heading it, and it’s right in! Goooooal! I don’t think anyone predicted that one, Gil. I’m not even sure it’s what Henny was planning. His kick was weaker than he meant it and Roger was in the right place at the right time.
Two-one, Lemmitania.

Lemmitania

12-06-2003, 06:22

Live on Lemmitanian Radio Network, this is Shemp Wooley with the halftime report. Well, boys, a nail-biter. The Lemmings up two-one at the half, and if they can just hold that lead it’s going to be Lemmitania and Altamira advancing.

Clem: The Lemmings are pressing, pressing, pressing. A draw is not good enough here, and they’ve been playing like a team that wants to win. I hope it doesn’t come back to haunt them later, they’ve really given it their all in the first half. The degree to which they turned it up after Altamira scored at the thirty minute mark really impresses me, Shemp. But I worry that their legs aren’t going to last another forty-five minutes.

Gil: It’s a long, long game. A long game.

Shemp: Yes, it is. Now, we heard from Coach Lemster just a moment ago, saying the game was going perfectly according to plan-- and-- what’s that smell? Did somebody order lunch?

Clem: Mike! Buddy! Long time no see!

Gil: Jus’ wheel the cart in ‘ere, Mike.

Shemp: What’s this? You sent Mike out to get you lunch? Is that where he’s been all game? Wait a minute. What is this, anyway?

Gil: Fish fry! Dig in!

Clem: Mm, say, Mike, you are the man. Where’s you learn to blacken ko-- uh-- catfish like this?

Shemp: I have never been so appalled in all my life.

Gil: Don’t be like that, ‘ave a plateful.

Clem: Mike’s been slaving over this feast all morning. Sally likes it. Right? See? Shemp, where are you going?

Gil: Somebody go find the Altamiran broadcasters, invite ‘em over to share in the bounty. We’ve got enough of the stuff, don’t you know?

Clem: There’s something about the Brazillican water that just makes for tasty fish. I wish I could explain it.

Gil: It ain’t the fish, it’s the way Mike prepares ‘em. ‘e knows ‘is way ‘round a kitchen.

Clem: From now on, Mike, we’re going to call you the statisfishan. What do you think?

Gil: Say, ‘ow’d you get the smell out o’ the room-- ouch! Wha’d you punch me for, Clem?

Clem: Ixnay on the ellsmay in the oomray.

Gil: An’ a boop-boop-de-boop to you too. I just wanted to know how he--

...

Clem: And, sorry about the dead air, folks. Sometimes it’s best to yank the plug, work things out, and come back on for the second half with an understanding in place.

Gil: Oh, I’m so stuffed full of the catfish wot Mike bought an’ prepared for us, I can ‘ardly commentate. Think I’ll just nip off for a bit.

Clem: And leave me holding the bag? I don’t think so. It’s your turn to call a few kicks, my friend.

Gil: Oh... very well. It’s the second ‘alf kickoff, and ‘at’s exactly wot ‘e does. Some kickin’ and a li’le bit o’ running, and we’re looking at one or the other team possessing the ball. Somebody kicks it to somebody, and there’s Chang--

Clem: That’s Mickelson.

Gil: Mickelson takin’ it away from ‘im. More kickin’, by our side now. Rosco to Henneman to Bingson to Tinker to Ever to Chance. Wot I wouldn’ give for a good scrum right about now.

(83rd minute)

Clem: And bother teams playing conservatively, neither wants to give up a goal-- the score’s been two-one all half, and if it stays there, they both advance. We’ve hardly seen the ball leave midfield the last forty minutes, Gil.

Gil: I concur.

Clem: And Altamira seems to be mustering something, one last stab at evening up the score, a matter of team pride, as they don’t want to lose their first of the round. They’re pressing it, but our boys are right there with them. I was worried at halftime about how the Lemmings would last, after the hard first half, but it’s been so relaxed out there that I think they’re pretty fresh for the eighty-fourth minute. Altamira is as well. They’re trying to work it in past Chang, Dubrowski, and Molvo. They’ve got four forwards in, kind of a risky move considering they don’t desperately need a goal, but maybe it’ll pay off. Mickelson’s back, aiding the defense. They’ve got it at the top of the box, one on two and he lofts it across, the nearside striker tries a header at goal, but Flanders knocks it away, and it’s back to the center, passes it between Dubrowski and Molvo to the left side again, back out to center, the right forward again charges, but Chang’s read the play! A looooong kick, he send it back out past midfield, and we’ve got three on two! Henneman, Bingson, Rosco, charging with the ball, and only two defenders are there, Henneman sprinting with the ball, the defenders are trying to guess who’s gong to take the shot, Henneman’s charging the nearest man, and sends it across to Bingson! Bing nearly loses it, if the ball wasn’t in front of him he’d be offside, and he puts his foot on it-- Goooooooal! Goooooooal! I don’t believe it! Altamira, taking the risky move late in the game, and it’s cost them dearly. Oh, my. It’s three to one Lemmitania, 86 minutes into it. Coach Lemster is going to sit Henneman here, and in goes Wapman, the extra defender. Even with their extra forward Altamira’s going to have to pull off something amazing to get that goal back. They take the kickoff immediately into the Lemmings’ territory, and Bingson and Roger Rosco are just laying back, looking to help the defenders. And the orange shirts in the stands are going absolutely mad. We went into this match thinking Altamira was all but a lock to advance, and Lemmitania’s chances didn’t look good. And here we are watching time run down on Altamira in World Cup four. They had a great run, went 4-1-1 in the quals and got two exciting victories in the Cup, but a late mistake in game three is going to send them home...

And there’s time. final score, 3-1, Lemmitania over Altamira. In group D, Total ‘n’ Utter Insanity and Lemmitania advance.

12-06-2003, 18:48

Der Angst 2 - Rhaken Kull 4
Al Quds 2 - GATMOG 2

Steel Shadows 2 - Shinjo ViCu 0
Dennisov 1 - The Imperial Navy 1

Runaway Moose 4 - Gesamtkuntwerk 2
Lunatic Goofballs 1 - Tanah Burung 1

Total n Utter Insanity 1 - Spookistan and Jakalah 0
Lemmitania 3 - Altamira 1

Giant Zucchini 3 - The Divine Llama 0
Spaam 3 - Ravenspire 2

Oglethorpia 0 - Alasdair I Frosticus 0
Haraki 4 - Svecia 3

Brazillico 1 - One Red Dot 1
Ariddia 2 - Caras Sidh 0

Europa Brittania 1 - Audioslavia 1
Kingsford 3 - Jurassica 5

GROUP A W D L GF GA GD PTS
Al Quds 1 1 1 4 4 0 5
Rhaken Kull 1 1 1 7 6 1 4
Der Angst 1 1 1 4 5 -1 4
GATMOG 0 3 0 4 4 0 3
GROUP B W D L GF GA GD PTS
Dennisov 2 1 0 8 2 6 7
Steel Shadows 1 1 1 5 6 -1 4
The Imperial Navy 0 3 0 4 4 0 3
Shinjo ViCu 0 1 2 1 6 -5 1
GROUP C W D L GF GA GD PTS
Tanah Burung 1 2 0 5 4 1 5
Lunatic Goofballs 1 2 0 4 3 1 5
Runaway Moose 1 1 1 5 4 1 4
Gesamtkuntwerk 0 1 2 6 9 -3 1
GROUP D W D L GF GA GD PTS
Lemmitania 2 0 1 6 4 2 6
Total n Utter Insanity 2 0 1 6 5 1 6
Altamira 2 0 1 9 9 0 6
Spookistan and Jakalah 0 0 3 3 6 -3 0
GROUP E W D L GF GA GD PTS
Giant Zucchini 1 2 0 5 2 3 5
Spaam 1 2 0 7 6 1 5
Ravenspire 1 1 1 7 3 4 4
The Divine Llama 0 1 2 2 10 -8 1
GROUP F W D L GF GA GD PTS
Alasdair I Frosticus 1 2 0 5 4 1 5
Haraki 1 1 1 7 8 -1 4
Oglethorpia 1 1 1 4 6 -2 4
Svecia 1 0 2 10 8 2 3
GROUP G W D L GF GA GD PTS
Ariddia 2 1 0 7 2 5 7
Brazillico 0 3 0 4 4 0 3
Caras Sidh 0 2 1 3 5 -2 2
One Red Dot 0 2 1 3 6 -3 2
GROUP H W D L GF GA GD PTS
Jurassica 2 0 1 8 6 2 6
Audioslavia 1 2 0 7 6 1 4
Europa Brittania 1 1 1 4 4 0 3
Kingsford 0 1 2 6 9 -3 1

Round of 16

Al Quds - Spaam @ San Chavez
Dennisov - Haraki @ Cordova
Tanah Burung - Brazillico @ Kalita
Lemmitania - Audioslavia @ Monte Melini
Giant Zucchini - Rhaken Kull @ Terrabella City
Alasdair I Frosticus - Steel Shadows @ San Pablo
Ariddia - Lunatic Goofballs @ Corsa Paso
Jurassica - Total n Utter Insanity @ Locosi

12-06-2003, 19:39

*Goofball Sports Network*

*The guy behind the desk looks very uncomfortable as he looks into the camera. He shifts uneasily as he speaks* "It really was a fantastic tense game, and we will show it to you in it's entirety... um... as soon as we find the tape." *voices can be heard off-camera* "Seems that there was a bit of a party after the game, and... well, party/riot. You know the deal. We have footage of that too. Fun stuff, that. Anyhoo..." *He looks to someone off-camera. Whatever he says, doesn't please him* "Then kick the $hit out of him! If that moldy little turd gets me lynched by an angry mob of hoolies, I'm gonna make sure I get him first!" *He looks back at the camera, and forces a grin*

*We interrupt this report for a diplomatic announcement. If any other networks managed to record the Tanah Burung-Lunatic Goofball game, and can still find the tape, please send a copy to the Goofball Sports Network. Thank you, and pray for our safety*

*back to the report... looking off-camera, the furious desk-jockey says,* "We have what?" *blinks* "You're f-----ing kidding me. I can't...." *He twitches, then looks at the camera* Folks, it seems by a strange twist of fate, the tapes of the Team Goofball, and the official Goofball Hoolie Travelers' celebration was ~not~ lost. So... in it's entirety is the... party celebrating the Goofballs advancing in the World Cup..." *The sound of tires screeching and cars crashing manages to get into the studio. Fortunately, the tapes roll, so the sound of nearly a hundred angry hoolies invading the network go unheard.*

The Party is typical Team Goofball fare, and therefore involves lots of naughty bits(carefully blurred. Unedited versions can be rented from local video stores), shouting, drinking, throwing things and/or people, drinking, tossing friends and/or family into water fountains in various states of undress, drinking, one or two overturned cars, and plenty of drinking. Several team members hijack a camera crew and visit Barry Greenman, the team captain, in jail. After a joyous celebration with their incarcerated captain, the three teammates left, but not before slipping several cartons of cigarettes to a few other inmates with instructions to... 'show Barry a good time'.

All-in-all, it's quite a party.

Ariddia

12-06-2003, 19:55

8pm news

Yasmina Jones: "And the joy at Ariddia's national football team having made it to the next round after a 3-0 victory over Caras Sidh was dampened by the beginning of the war against Tordor. Still, Ariddians tried to remain cheerful and express their support for the team.

Timothy Marsh was goalkeeper today, and the coach's trust was definitely not misplaced, as he blocked every shot by Caras Sidh's players, proving the team has good backup players in addition to the stars such as Boulanger. The goals were scored by Khan, Singh and Seagull, one each.

The tragedy of Ariddia's first ever war will not prevent the team from doing their best here in Brazillico, the coach promised. International events, I quote, 'should have no impact on the game', end quote. He went on to congratulate the other teams, including those who did not make it through, on their 'efforts, determination and fair play.'

In the round of 16, Ariddia will be playing against the team from..." - *hesitates slightly on the name* - "umm, Lunatic Goofballs? Lunatic Goofballs.

And in other sports news..."

Tanah Burung

12-06-2003, 20:37

(ok Goofballs, you can use our tape :wink: )

Commentary on today's match between Tanah Burung and Lunatic Goofballs is brought to you by Jack McMurdo of BSN and Mau Kiri Rai, the Tanah Burung minister of territorial defence and sports.

McMurdo: Welcome back to sunny Kalita Stadium here in sunny, frisky Brazillico! And what a day it is, the sun shimmering, the skies clear, the fans enjoying the weather and the Crocodiles enjoying their return to Kalita. These lads love the sun. Sorry, lads and lasses i should say. The kickoff, and they're away.

Rai: Watch our forces control the territory they are assigned, methodically controlling the ball, frustrating the enemy. The day must be ours.

McMurdo: Well, you only need a draw. Looks like they're playing for a draw, not much inspiring play so far.

Rai: Nonsense. It is by resisting the enemy's attacks and waiting for an opening that we win. If Syahnun controls the midfield, then our assault team shall strike when the enemy least expects it. Here is Oan Ini Marçal, ahead of the ball, just waiting for it to come to him.

McMurdo: Right you are sir! And they've played it forward to him. Yikes, the Goofball defenders are forward ... offside!

Rai: Imperialist rules. Nevertheless, we shall win despite the deck being stacked against our fighters.

McMurdo: But surely your team is the favourite?

Rai: We shall treat this adversary with the respect that we would give to any team no matter how mighty. There, the enemy is advancing. See us fall back and regroup. They cannot touch us. See Alex David strip the ball away fom the feet of the Goofballs. Watch as he passes to Hunu, to Alhamid, to Santos. See how each soldier controls his zone, always disciplined. So was the revolution won, so shall the game be won. Watch as Santos leaves the ball for Syahnun, as Syahnun takes deadly aim and meets his target. Watch as the Crocodiles celebrate together in the spirit of comradeship.

McMurdo: Or in other words, Syahnun scored a goal.

Rai: That is what I said. The Crocodiles have drawn first blood. So it always is, so it shall always be if they remain strong and united as a unit.

(several dozen ideological slogans later)

McMurdo: I see that Francisco has been pulled off and and replaced by a fifth defender. His first game without a goal in this tournament. Your thoughts?

Rai: No one player matters. Francisco has made his nation proud of him. It is the unity of the team that matters. It is...

McMurdo: ...let me stop you there minister. The Goofballs are on the attack again, they want to make dame sure they'll go through to the round of 16. Roaring Goofball fans seem to be lending their energy to the players. Can this atack be stopped? It doesn't look like it .... oh, David with a vicious tackle, the Goofball player is down and looks in a lot of pain ... the refereee look pissed ... and there's going to be a penalty kick for the Goofballs.

Rai: On the field of battle, sometimes a player must sacrifice himself for the greater good. But we should not surrender a setpiece confrontation like this. Alex David has let his youthful enthusiasm overcome his discipline. I hope his comrades will not pay for his error.

McMurdo: The shot, low and to the keeper's left ... Bi Kikere guesses wrong, diving to the right, and she can't get back in time! Goal! That's 1-all. And a beautful shot to tie it all up. Gorgeous stuff, and I don't mean just the gorgeous goalie!

(later)

McMurdo: And that's how it ended, one goal apiece, enough for both teams to go through to the next round no matter what the result is in the other Group C game. Tanah Burung wins the group on goal difference and avoids a first-round date with Group G winner Ariddia. Instead, they stay on at their base for the group stage, Kalita Stadium to play -- oh man -- the hosts, Brazillico. Well, so much for home field advantage eh? Even at Kalita, Brazillico will be the only team to get many cheers. Tanah Burung and Brazillico have met only once before, in a friendly match inaugurating the magificent San Chavez stadium, and that game was draw if memory serves. My memory's getting hazy in my old age though... Anyway, it's sure to be a great game. BSN will have it for you, free of political hacks spoiling my commentary. Join us then!

13-06-2003, 04:47

Home team enthusiasm hits all-time low
By: Clemente Acuna

One would think that hosting the World Cup would get people pumped over football and having cheering for their team wildly, no matter what the odds were against them.

However, a string of lack lustre performances has Brazillicans doing the exact opposite of that.

First it was a 1-1 draw against Caras Sidh.

"It's alright, the team's a little rusty... Caras Sidh were coming off qualifyiers," the faithful said, "We'll win the next two."

Then, we saw a two-all draw against Ariddia.

"That's alright, Ariddia is a good side and that was a good match," said the faithful, "We're in a good position to win the next one and advance out of the group stages."

Afterwards, we saw a 1-1 draw against One Red Dot.

WHAT?? STOP THE PRESSES!!

"How could this happen?", the faithful asked, "We were tuning up for our best result yet. How can not have a win after the group stage?"

Well, by pure luck, Brazillico found a way to advance out of group stage and play Tanah Burung for a birth in the quarter finals, two teams possessing close ties between themselves, but all friendship will likely be left in the locker room for this encounter.

"Before the cup, I thought Brazillico was a lock for the semi-finals," says pub owner Rodrigo Colon, "Now, I think we're lucky to have made it this far."

If you think that is a low optimism comment from a traditionally mad football nation, to quote Bachman-Turner Overdrive, you aint seen nothin yet.

"This cup performance has been shameful," said taxi cab driver Felix Navidad, "At least it will be Tanah Burung beating them, I wont mind cheering for them afterwards."

Whatever the word on the street is, Kalita Sports Complex will be sold out and a cauldron of color and noise when Brazillico faces off against Tanah Burung tomorrow night.

13-06-2003, 08:33

The new management of the Hoolie Sports Network would like to thank Tanah Burung for giving us a copy of the game to show the masses of Goofball Island. We thank you, and the former management, who while badly beaten, will get off light also thank you.

Audioslavia

13-06-2003, 09:06

Audioslavia meets old rivals in Round Two.

Not even the lush surroundings of Monte Mellini are expected to offer consolation for opponants Lemmitania as the 'Slaves (as the national team are 'affectionately' known) seek revenge for their narrow 2-1 defeat in the qualifying round which almost put Audioslavia's world cup debut in danger of not happening at all.

Sky have offered to air the game on pay-per-view, billing it as:

LEMMINGS Vs SLAVES..... this time, its PERSONAL.

will the 'slaves be ordererd about the field by Lemmitania? or will the Lemmings turn suicidal on their re-match with Audioslavia?

only time.. and an extremely complicated score-generator... will tell.

PS Audioslavia wishes good luck to its opponents, for the match, and for good service for their long flight home :P

Europa Brittania

13-06-2003, 09:49

The Brittanian National team left Brazillico this morning, ending a tournament in which they achieved little and to which lost their previous record of never having failed to reach the final stages. Much of the Brittania were less than impressed with the solid but lacking display from their team,

"Zurich was superb, as always, and Winter's replacment Lionel couldn't do much more, but that Cannons useless." said one bystander.

On returning home it was expected that Jarvis Smith, despite the early exit at this competition, would be installed as Senior Coach on a permanent basis.

Brittania wishes luck to all remaining teams on success.

And looks forward to playing again in World Cup V.

Giant Zucchini

13-06-2003, 09:54

World Cup Previews and Predictions:
Round of 16:

Welcome to the show, I'm Mr. Woo, your host for today. Firstly, the big news, Europa Brittania, ranked 3rd in the world and seeded 2nd in the World Cup, has crashed out of the competition after a 1-1 draw with Audioslavia, landing them 3rd in their group behind Jurassica and Audioslavia. Meanwhile, top seed Giant Zucchini jumped two places to end up top of the table in their group with a 3-0 thrashing of The Divine Llama. They were also doubtful of reaching the next round before the win after two draws and third in the table.

Now, the previews and predictions. We have the Head Coach of the Giant Zucchini National Team Mr. Hurr with us today to give us his views.

Al Quds - Spaam @ San Chavez:
Mr. Woo: So, do you feel this will be a walkover for Al Quds?
Mr. Hurr: No, in fact, I feel Spaam will put up a good fight against Al Quds. Spaam's form is currently peaking, especially after the Ravenspire defeat, whereas Al Quds' once fierce grip on football is slipping considerably. But, I still think Al Quds can win this, but not without a good fight from Spaam. This match will be tight, so I think this may go into the golden goal.
Prediction:
Al Quds - 3 (GG)
Spaam - 2

Dennisov - Haraki @ Cordova:
Mr. Woo: I haven't heard of both these teams.
Mr. Hurr: Yes, they aren't very famous teams. The winner in this match will be the underdog in the next. Looking at their recent form though, I would say Dennisov can pull this one off.
Prediction:
Dennisov - 1
Haraki - 0

Tanah Burung - Brazillico @ Kalita:
Mr. Woo: This is the big match, isn't it?
Mr. Hurr: Yes, there isn't a tighter match than this. Both these sides would be hoping for an easier draw. However, I think Tanah Burung has the class and the talent to overthrow the hosts. But it will be tight.
Prediction:
Tanah Burung - 3
Brazillico - 2

Lemmitania - Audioslavia @ Monte Melini:
Mr. Woo: Another match of underdogs.
Mr. Hurr: Actually, Lemmitania is quite an established footballing nation. Despite Audioslavia squeezing past Europa Brittania, I still think Lemmitania will win this rather easily.
Prediction:
Lemmitania - 3
Audioslavia - 1

Giant Zucchini - Rhaken Kull @ Terrabella City:
Mr. Woo: That's your match.
Mr. Hurr: Yes, and a pretty challenging one at that. Rhaken Kull has a team to be feared. However, I will be rallying my team for the win. However, personally, I feel they can push us to the golden goal.
Prediction:
Giant Zucchini - 1 (GG)
Rhaken Kull - 0

Alasdair I Frosticus - Steel Shadows @ San Pablo:
Mr. Woo: What are your thoughts on this match?
Mr. Hurr: This is one tough prediction. Steel Shadows are quite an enigmatic team, but they play good football. However, I feel Alasdair I Frosticus has more quality in their side. They also have more experience, and that's got to be to their advantage in a match like this.
Prediction:
Alasdair I Frosticus - 2
Steel Shadows - 1

Ariddia - Lunatic Goofballs @ Corsa Paso:
Mr. Woo: Quite an easy prediction, this.
Mr. Hurr: Lunatic Goofballs are the surprise package in this round. However, there is a big gulf in class between these two teams. Arridia should sail through this one comfortably.
Prediction:
Ariddia - 3
Lunatic Goofballs - 0

Jurassica - Total n Utter Insanity @ Locosi:
Mr. Woo: This is another tough one.
Mr. Hurr: Indeed it is. Both sides reek of quality and have performed well so far. However, I feel that TnUI has the ability to find the winning goal.
Prediction:
Jurassica - 2
Total n Utter Insanity - 3 (GG)

Mr Woo: And that's our show for tonight, folks! We thank Mr. Hurr for being with us today and we wish the Giant Zucchini National Team the best against Rhaken Kull. It's goodbye now from the studios.

Dennisov

13-06-2003, 10:50

The last game in the group against The Imperial Navy was to Dennisov of absolutely no importance.
The game ended 1-1, which reflected the Dennisov lack of interest in this game. This did lead to the elimination of The Imperial Navy from the competition.

The players and staff are now preparing for their game among the last 16 of this year's World Cup

The Imperial Navy

13-06-2003, 10:55

Spaam

13-06-2003, 12:47

OOC: Finally.... time to RP :D

Thom: And welcome to the special World Cup edition of Sports At 10. As all of you out there will know, Spaam beat Ravenspire last night 3-2 in what proved to be Spaam's most exciting game ever. As a result, Spaam has made it into the 2nd round of the World Cup. Before we go any further, we will now bring you highlights from that match.

[cue to highlights]

Anny: With Giant Zucchini's 3 nil victory over the Divine Llama, Spaam needs a win over Ravenspire if they are to continue in this World Cup. However, it does not look likely, as Ravenspire is one of only 3 teams not to have been beaten at all this World Cup season. They also easily have the best defense of any team in this World Cup, having only conceded only 4 goals in the past 8 games, including none in the World Cup proper to date. Spaam on the other hand, have tied their past two games 2 all, and have conceded 17 goals in the past 8 games, one of the worst in the competition.

Juan: In their defense Anny, Spaam has made 19 goals in their past 8 games, to Ravenspire's 17. They also tied 2 all in their game against World Cup champions Giant Zucchini. But I agree that they are definitely the underdogs here today. Maybe the most telling sign is Spaam has never ever beaten a side that is ranked higher than them. If they can beat Ravenspire tonight, they would have broken every rule in Murphy's book. However, with Spaam's notorious bad starts, and Ravenspire's 5 nil thrashing of the Divine Llama a few days ago, I just don't see it happening.

Anny: Well, hopefully this will prove to be an exciting match in any case. Lets have a look at Spaam's lineup for tonight....

[8th minute]

Anny: And its Amara Akizuki for Ravenspire against Lehua Hoopai for Spaam, and she's broken away and she shoots... Truun dives and.... SHE SCORES! Akizuki has gotten the opening goal for Ravenspire in the minute of this game.

Juan: This is what we feared Anny, Spaam's defense in the first half of the game being abysmal, and letting in an early goal. And I have to admit, I don't like their chances of getting one back. It was nice to the best female players from both teams going up against each other though....

Anny: I bet you liked it Juan ^_~

Juan: What? No, I didn't mean.....

[23rd minute]

Juan: Its Zhen Sui-Ling with the corner.... Akizuki has it again.... she shoots and SAVE! What a lucky save there by Truun.... he went up one of the best strikers in the game, and managed to save an incredibly crucial goal here tonight....

[38th minute]

Anny: Akizuki has the free kick.... she shoots and SAVE! Nice diving there by Truun.... he knows that Spaam seriously can't let any more past by Ravenspire. Amara seems to be getting the ball a lot tonight.

[44th minute]

Juan: A minute to half time and the score is still 1 nil in Ravenspire's favour. Akizuki has the ball again, coming up against Hoopai, and a nice tackle there from Hoopai! She's come away with the ball and moving it up the field. Across to Nevvytt, who seems a little further up than normal, straight to Widjaja. Widjaja with the ball, and teaming up with Saavedra, going to the right. We have some defense here, but they're not letting the ball go, across to Choi. Choi plays with it for a minute then back to Widjaja and then to Saavedra. Moving close to the square, and they're almost offside here, and big kick and its to Nevvytt! He shoots and SCORES! Spaam has got the equaliser with a brilliant goal from Nevvytt.

Anny: This is fantastic.... Nevvytt came from nowhere to just intercept the ball and he just shot it right into the corner of the net. The Ravenspire keeper had no chance there, and so its 1 all just before half time here....

[49th minute]

Juan: Akizuki with the ball yet again and there's noone about. Truun is coming up to meet her and NO! She's beaten him and GOAL! Bad play there from Truun, committing himself too early, and Ravenspire is up again 2-1 just minutes after half-time.

Anny: Full credit goes to Akizuki though. She played well, and has again got a double.

[64th minute]

Anny: Zui-Ling with the corner again.... good kick there.... Lowell.... Akizuki and SAVE! Truun again came up with a save here, so its still 2-1 to Ravenspire.

[84th minute]

Anny: Ravenspire is just holding the ball.... they know they're practically in. Spaam has put everything into attack though, they can't go away without trying. Nevvytt's been moved up into forward position.... Hoopai into midfield with Lee and Drakk, two attacking players.... Ajani the sole defender....

Juan: And it looks like Ravenspire is trying to exploit that, they've got the ball and moving it up.... they're outnumbering Spaam six five and Akizuki has the ball and Hoopai comes up to meet her and mistake! Mistake by Akizuki and Hoopai just belts the ball up to Saavedra and there are just five forwards coming into the square against three... Widjaja and Saavedra and he has no chance.... and GOAL!

Anny: Bad play there from Ravenspire, perhaps getting a bit too cocky, with Saavedra and Widjaja combining to give the keeper no chance, and the goal actually coming from Choi to - from the left. Well, it seems we have a game here after all Juan, 2 all with about 5 minutes to go.

[92nd minute]

Juan: Looks like another 2 all draw for Spaam here, with the Ravenspire defense holding. Hoopai with the ball and ouch! Oh, that was wrong, bad from Akizuki, and the ref is coming up to give her a yellow card. You don't expect that sort of behaviour from such a world class player Anny.

Anny: No, but they've been in each other's faces all game, and no wonder there's some tempers flying here. Ok, the ref is givine Hoopai and free kick, about 20 metres from the goal and right in front, and this will be the last play of the day. If she can make it, Spaam is into the 2nd round. If she misses it, Spaam is out of this World Cup. The entire weight of the nation on her shoulders.

Juan: She has a good record with free kicks, so we'll see if she can make it. The tension is incredible....

Anny: Coming up.... shoots and.... GOOOOAAAALLLL! She's done it! Lehua Hoopai has come up with an amazing goal and Spaam are into the 2nd round! And thats full time! Spaam wins 3-2 against Ravenspire!

Juan: They've lifted her up onto their shoulders, and the crowd is going absolutely wild here tonight. What a day for Spaam football. Their first World Cup, and they have beaten one of the best teams to progress into the final 16. Look at the Ravenspire team.... Amara Akizuki is in tears. A silly move from her has not only cost her team a game that in all respects, they had the best chance of winning, but also but her team out of contention. You have to feel for the Ravenspire team tonight.

[cue to studio]

Thom: And we'll stop right there, and come back after the break.

OOC: The table has been updated, if anyone has bothered to check....
:!: http://galileo.spaceports.com/~wffs/wciv.html :!:
Also, it'd be nice to get a statement from the Ravenspire team :P

Spaam

13-06-2003, 14:13

Thom: And welcome back. We have here now Peter Antaki, Football commentator for the Waerterstadt Herald, to give us a run down of the main draw. Thankyou for joining us Peter.

Peter: A pleasure to be here.

Thom: Firstly, what are your thoughts on last night's game?

Peter: Amazing. One of the most exciting games I have seen the national side ever play. Unlike most teams that have been playing, Spaam has been creeping in with a multitude of close games and a lot of luck. Their being in the top 16 has more to do with being stubborn than anything else. Of course, we might see some exciting things happen in the finals. In the 25 odd international games that Spaam has played, they had never before today beaten an team that had a higher ranking. Tied, consistently, but never beaten. And it is my opinion that they should not have won last night either. Ravenspire practically handed the place to us on a silver platter, and they are seriously paying the price for it. Ravenspire had only conceded 4 goals before tonight, 1 goal in each of their first 4 games in the Qualifiers, and none in the 4 games after that. In short, their defense was impressive, until they came up against Spaam. Not many people realise, that coming into the main draw, only 3 teams had scored more goals, and 2 of them are out, the exception being the extremely impressive Jurassica.

Thom: About the team?

Peter: Widjaja and Saavedra have been proving themselves to be a dynamite duo in our game. I am impressed with how well they work together, the superstar veteran and the wunderkid. They have scored 9 out of Spaam's 18 goals this season, and impressive total. Choi has earned a place in the team, and so has Hoopai. Very impressed with her performance, especially in that match. And she has scored 2 crucial free kicks since Coach Tosolini brought her in in the middle of the Qualifiers. And of course, KK Nevvytt has brought on some of his magic. Can't forget Byshai either, with 2 goals to his name. A definite quiet achiever that one. But yes, Hoopai with that last goal.... definitely some magic there.

Thom: Now, Spaam's greatest weakness.

Peter: Yes, the first 45 minutes of the game. Spaam has scored over 72% of its goals in the second half, which would make them one of the best teams if the game only started after 45 minutes. But at this level that sort of performance can't be tolerated, and it is a very serious issue that Coach Tosolini has to work on, and has so far failed at. Too many times has Spaam had to claw its way back into a game, and most often only ended up with a draw. They were lucky in their game against Kingsford in the Qualifiers, and we all remember their atrocious loss to Gatmog, when they were down 5 NIL at one time. If Tosolini doesn't fix this problem soon, they will find themselves perennial middle of the table dwellers.

Thom: Ok, then. Now what about the main draw as a whole?

Peter: This year, I have to say, has been a year of dissappointments . Der Angst missing out on the 2nd round by one goal. If they hadn't let Rhaken Kull get that 4th goal in the 85th minute, they would've been through to the 2nd round on account of their 1 nil win over Al Quds. However, dissappointment as they miss out by the smallest of margins. The Imperial Navy also missing out on the 2nd round, after easily topping their group in the Qualifying. They could just not get the win they needed, but in their defense, they are still yet to be beaten at the international level. I would like to see what happens in the next Cup with that team. Altamira was also an incredible dissapointment, with their team also missing out by a solitary goal, after having the second best attack of the game. Heart breaking. Svecia missing out after scoring 10 goals in the main draw, and making the 2nd round last year, and getting an automatic berth. And Europa Brittania, despite coming 3rd last World Cup, came 3rd in their group and missed out on the 2nd round. And of course, the biggest dissapointment, the best defensive team in the game, after topping their Qualifying group, being defeated by a girl from the desert with a free kick in the 92nd minute.

Thom: You make this game sound so depressing!

Peter: ~laughs~ I'm a critic after all. But their have been some good stories. Giant Zucchini topped their group, as should be expected from the defending champions, though in unorthodox fashion. Jurassica being the best offensive team in the game, 27 goals in 9 matches is impressive in anyone's language. It also balances out the 27 goals conceded by the Divine Llama, though maybe not Enelando's or the Amused's 21 in 6 games in the Qualifiers. Ariddia is yet to be beaten this season, and has topped the tables too. And another new team that has nothing but impressed is Rhaken Kull, who have managed to top their group as well. I am really looking forward to an impressive end to this World Cup.

Thom: Thankyou Peter, and we will back after the break.

OOC: Ok, who are your best goal scorers?

[code:1:cb070106f6]
Saavedra : 5
Widjaja : 4
Byshai : 2
Nevvytt : 2
Hoopai : 2
Choi : 1
Sheryn : 1
Weddam : 1
Sukkar : 1
[/code:1:cb070106f6]

Spaam

13-06-2003, 14:56

Thom: Welcome back. Finally in this special, we have Spaam National Coach Lopes Tosolini via sattelite from Brazillico, to give us his predicitons on the 2nd round. Welcome back Lopes, and congratuations on your team's magnificent effort against Ravenspire.

Lopes: Thankyou very much Thom. I am very proud of them.

Thom: As well you might be. So, what are your predictions for the 2nd round? How about the first game, Jurassica vs Total n Utter Insanity?

Lopes: Well, this looks like to be an exciting game, Jurassica a veteran team with an amazing offense, and TnUI with incredible talent, so it should be good. But I am predicting Jurassica to come out clear winners.

Thom: How about Ariddia vs Lunatic Goofballs?

Lopes: Ariddia is a veteran team, being in every World Cup to date, whereas this is Lunatic's first outing, and an impressive one at that. Their defense is about the same, but Ariddia's defense is slightly better, so I predict Ariddia over Lunatic.

Thom: Alasdair I Frosticus vs Steel Shadows?

Lopes: Two well established teams here that have never met at the international level. I'm picking Alasdair, but don't be suprised if Steel Shadows comes up with the goods. Good chance of a golden goal.

Thom: Giant Zucchini vs Rhaken Kull?

Lopes: Well, you have to say that they defending champs are clear favourites, against this new team, but Rhaken has not dissappointed me yet. Still, GZ has not been beaten in a long time, so my money is one them.

Thom: Lemmitania vs Audioslavia?

Lopes: Lemmitania is another veteran team going up against another newcomer. Lemmitania beat Audioslavia 2-1 in the Qualifying round, so Audioslavia will be looking for revenge, but I don't think they'll find it here. So I'm with the Lemmings.

Thom: Tanah Burung vs Brazillico?

Lopes: I think this will be the best game of the 2nd round. These two teams always promise fantastic games, and I think this will be no different. And since Tanah was a quarterfinalist last World Cup, and runner up the time for that, and since the last time they met, it was Tanah 1-0, I will be putting my money on them as well. However, a nice chance for a golden goal.

Thom: Dennisov vs Haraki?

Lopes: Well, Haraki is a definite new comer, and Dennisov has been around for a bit longer, and beaten a few top teams in its time, so it should be Dennisov.

Thom: And finally, the most important game of all, Al Quds vs your Spaam.

Lopes: Al Quds is perhaps second only to Giant Zucchini, and was the winner of World Cup III. And as you know, the team has had a lot of luck getting this far, so it will be a hard game. You never know, we might give you guys a few suprises, but look for a golden goal. We promise to make it an incredible game.

Thom: Well, thankyou for all that Lopes, and good luck.

Lopes: Dobranoc and Ehlonna bless.

Thom: Well, thats all we have time for tonight. Join us for the coverage of the Al Quds vs Spaam game at the San Chavez stadium tomorrow. Until then, this is Thom Klaittun, and goodnight.

OOC: Ok, that was a lot of writing....

So the predictions are, combining mine and Giant Zucchini's:
It will go down to a golden goal in Al Quds vs Spaam.
Dennisov over Haraki.
Tanah Burung over Brazillico in the biggest match of the 2nd round.
Lemmitania over Audioslavia.
Giant Zucchini over Rhaken Kull.
Alasdair over Steel in a close one.
Ariddia over Lunatic.
And we can't agree on the Jurassica vs TnUI match, except that it will be close :)

13-06-2003, 17:47

[code:1:d853702b9a]
Saavedra : 5
Widjaja : 4
Byshai : 2
Nevvytt : 2
Hoopai : 2
Choi : 1
Sheryn : 1
Weddam : 1
Sukkar : 1
[/code:1:d853702b9a]

OOC: 19 goals in 3 games.. Where did they come from?

IC: *World Cup preview show with Roberto Puyol and Junior Gasol*

RP: Welcome to Kalita, where later tonight we'll witness what many writers have been hyping up as the game of the round, Tanah Burung to face off against Brazillico. Along side me, is Junior Gasol. Junior, what are your thoughts on the match tonight?

JG: I must agree, on paper, this promises to be the best game of the round. However, Brazillico looked terribly lethargic in their last match and have yet to win a match in this cup. If they keep putting out the effort we've seen so far, it could be a cakewalk for Tanah Burung.

RP: Yes, and adding to this match... these are two teams who know each other very well.

JG: Tanah Burung and Brazillico have played in several friendlies in the course of their history. Most recently, a 1-0 Tanah Burung victory to open up the San Chavez International Stadium. Both teams are aware of the others weaknesses, and look for them to try to exploit them at every opportunity.

RP: That's true Junior, now let's look at the Lemmitania/Audioslavia game, the winner of which will go on to face either Tanah Burung or Brazillico.

JG: Both these teams are in unchartered waters. Lemmitania has never made it out of the group stages before and Audioslavia are in their first World Cup experience. It should be a very close game.

RP: Well, that's all the time we have for now, tune in tonite when we'll broadcast you Tanah Burung against Brazillico.

Goal leaders for Brazillico:
McGarnicle, De Jesus, Quintana and Hernandez all tied with 1

Total n Utter Insanity

13-06-2003, 18:31

OOC: Wait http://galileo.spaceports.com/~wffs/wciv.html has it that Al Quds are playing Giant Zucchini

13-06-2003, 19:06

OOC: I've looked over the scores and that's true.. Rhaken Kull should be playing Spaam and Al Quds should be going up against Giant Zucchini.

IC: Brazillican officials apologize for the statistical snafu, and a private jet is on its way to transport both the Rhaken Kull and Al Quds sides to their stadiums. The teams should arrive at the stadiums three hours before game time since San Chavez and Terrabella City are just a two hour flight away, making this a minimal problem.

We apologize again for this scheduling conflict.

13-06-2003, 23:22

((I'm really trying to vary the way I rp my games. This time, will be a newspaper article. Arridia: Feel free to post game highlights if you'd like.))

From the Goofball Gazette: A very upbeat team of Goofballs is a dangerous thing, and These were some very upbeat Goofballs heading into the stadium. With their team captain back on the sidelines(Though not playing due to some prison-related discomforts), the team was in high spirits. Most experts agreed that though the Goofballs had played with energy to spare, they were outclassed by Arridia. In truth, the Goofballs agreed.

Rather than the typical reaction, though, namely a certain surly seriousness and tension, the Goofballs responded(as they often do) unexpectedly. They entered the stadium singing a rousing stream of dirty limericks, getting the crowd to join in, and when all was said and done, all the smoke had cleared, the Goofballs left in equally high spirits singing the same dirty limericks.

However, the world could no longer deny that an upbeat team of Goofballs is a dangerous team. A physical and surprising 90 minutes of play, and one of the most spectacular Golden Goals in recent memory later, and the mighty juggernaut of Arridia stood stunned as the Goofballs advanced to the quarterfinals. The 3-2 final certainly shocked the world.

How long will the shocks continue? Only time will tell, though the parties around Goofball Island are getting more and more raucous with each victory. There has actually been some talk of police action to curb the more out-of-control elements. But such harmless, if property-damaging fun is as much a part of Goofball culture as the game of soccer now is.

Spaam

13-06-2003, 23:50

[code:1:f616beb101]
Saavedra : 5
Widjaja : 4
Byshai : 2
Nevvytt : 2
Hoopai : 2
Choi : 1
Sheryn : 1
Weddam : 1
Sukkar : 1
[/code:1:f616beb101]

OOC: 19 goals in 3 games.. Where did they come from?

I was including the Qualifiers.... and I forgot to add the last game. I should have 22 goals.... Meh, forget it.

[code:1:f616beb101]
Hoopai: 2 (both free kicks)
Saavedra: 2
Choi: 1
Widjaja: 1
Nevvytt: 1
[/code:1:f616beb101]

Btw, if Al Quds are playing Giant Zucchini, then THAT should be match of the round.... Seeing as they are the top 2 teams in the world according to my calcualations, having won the past 2 World Cups.... should be good :) Oh, and if I'm playing Rhaken Kull.... then my odds go up ;)

14-06-2003, 00:09

OOC: Match of the round is relative and has little to do with talent. I've seen A-League games that were much more entertaining than this year's Champions League final.

Spaam

14-06-2003, 00:11

OOC: Thats true.... but you're just jealous that is would beat your Brazillico vs Tanah Burung match ;) However, I hope it IS a good match, and we see some good RPing.

14-06-2003, 00:12

OOC: Thats true.... but you're just jealous that is would beat your Brazillico vs Tanah Burung match ;) However, I hope it IS a good match, and we see some good RPing.

OOC: Pretty much every match in the round of 16 has at least one good RPer involved, so that shouldn't be an issue.

Total n Utter Insanity

14-06-2003, 00:25

Second Half Goal Spells Disaster For TnUI

Yes you read it right, another World Cup another disappointment. Jurassica dumped us out after what was a promising start. Star Junn again showed his class as he brought TnUI into an early lead, but just before halftime Jurassica evened the tie. Much of the second half was a stalemate, but Jurassica got a lucky deflection in the 74th minute. It finished TnUI 1 Jurassica 2.

Tanah Burung

14-06-2003, 01:27

OOC: Thats true.... but you're just jealous that is would beat your Brazillico vs Tanah Burung match ;) However, I hope it IS a good match, and we see some good RPing.

ooc: Well there's a challenge eh? Let me just say, it is considered rude in Tanah Burung to defeat your host. What way would that be to pay back such generous hospitality?

And now, the locker-room cam!

Nudity is increasingly common in Tanah Burung, so none of the players wear much, if anything. Ab Francisco, team captain and top scorer with three goals, is trying to rally the squad.

"It is our toughest challenge," he says in a low, halting voice. For all the adulation he gets at home, Ab is a shy fellow. "The Brazillicans have never set the world on fire, but they are strong. They know us well. Too well, I'm afraid. I always prefer being the underdog, it seems to bring out the best in us."

Bi Kikere takes up the talking stick. They're using a talking stick, by the way, no one can speak unless they have the stick. Stops the big talkers from dominating. What a democratic bunch we are!

"Beloved ones," the keeper says, "The people of this country have been so good to us. I have to confess, I feel the code of guestly behaviour gnawing at me."

"Do not doubt, sister," says Syahnun, taking hold of the talking stick. "All we can do is our best. If you feel soft, think of that sexist player on the other side."

"He's not so sexy," chimes in Dita da Cruz. "Rather a troll, actually."

"No, sexIST, not sexy. And you forgot to ask for the talking stick."

Da Cruz takes the stick and sticks out her tongue at Syahnun. "OK. But that Junior Gasol, he's a fox."

The coach strides in, scowling. "The game, people. Focus on the game."

14-06-2003, 04:45

What if BUMP was one of us?

Total n Utter Insanity

14-06-2003, 05:02

Interviewer: Here I am with TnUI star forward Kellis.

Kellis: Hi all.

Interviewer: Well what happened today?

Kellis: I think we were unlucky. The play was in our favour, the luck just went against us.

Interviewer: How are the players feeling?

Kellis: A bit down, but we will be ready for the next world cup.

Interviewer: I guess I will see you there then.

Kellis: Yep, hopefully with a rank inside the world’s top 16 we should make it, if not automatically through qualifying.

Interviewer: Thanks for your time.

Kellis: No problem, oh one last thing. I want to say well done to my brother who won his first international chess match tonight. Sorry I couldn’t be there bro, but looks like I will be there for the next game.

Interviewer: Back to you in the studio.

Giant Zucchini

14-06-2003, 06:15

World Cup 4:
Round of 16:
Giant Zucchini vs Al Quds - Live Telecast

Welcome to the live telecast of Giant Zucchini vs Al Quds. Due to some confusion, Giant Zucchini was slated to meet Rhaken Kull, but this has been cleared and we now face a much more formidable opponent, Al Quds, making this match THE match to watch in the round of 16. The teams make their way onto the pitch and we will be back with more from Terrabella City, Brazillico.

Giant Zucchini

14-06-2003, 07:20

World Cup 4:
Round of 16:
Giant Zucchini vs Al Quds - Live Telecast

Welcome back, the coin has been flipped, and it's Giant Zucchini starting us off today. They Urk kicks off to Phoot who passes back to Poom.

8 min: Immediately this is Giant Zucchini on the counter-attack. Humm slips a pass to Kerrnigit who passes to Urk. He moves right, fakes the defender and starts a brilliant run left and towards the goal, he does the same to another defender and HE'S THROUGH!!! JUST A GOOD SHOT TO BEAT THE KEEPER...HE'S DOWN!!! Omar Khayyam with a tough slide against Urk. Fortunately he's not injured. Omar just let of with a warning there.

18 min: Malaclypse the Younger with a blistering run there, gets past Krak, GETS PAST HUMM, AND HE'S THROUGH...HUMM NOT LETTING ANYONE PAST HIM WITHOUT A CHALLENGE, HUMM PULLS MALACLYPSE DOWN, AND THE WHISTLE'S GONE!!! IT'S A PENALTY TO AL QUDS!!! OH, MY GOSH, I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!!! HUMM IS SENT OFF!!! Bad, bad day for Giant Zucchini. Humm sees red and walks dejectedly down the corridor to the dressing room. Al Quds with a big opportunity to gain the lead here. It's Ali Bin Rabban with the penalty. He runs, HITS IT, IT'S GOING INTO THE FAR POST...Oog just gets to it and palms it out for a corner for Al Quds.

21 min: Phoot now with the ball. He runs down the field with blistering pace down the centre, al-Buzjani tackles, MISSES! PHOOT NOW CLEAR, AL-BUZJANI CHASES HIM, PHOOT STOPS!!! AL-BUZJANI COULD NOT STOP IN TIME AND PHOOT SAFELY BREEZES PAST HIM, CAN HE SHOOT? A limp one directly at the keeper. A wasted chance there for Phoot.

37 min: Quk with the ball. He clears the ball to Urk who chests the ball, HE'S DOWN!!! Bad, bad challenge by Al Masu'di there. The referee pulls out a card and its a yellow for Masu'di. Kerrnigit taking the free kick. He runs, kicks, IT'S CURLING INTO THE NEAR CORNER...into the side netting. Great effort there by Kerrnigit.

46 min: Al Quds now with the ball. Malaclypse the Younger with a blistering run down the left, he's entering the penalty area, FOUL! Aargh with a bad challenge against Malaclypse, but he is just let off with a warning. Hakim Bey with the free kick. He runs, HE KICKS, IT'S GOING OVER...IT DIPS AND CURLS LEFT INTO THE TOP LEFT HAND CORNER...CAN OOG REACH IT...HE CAN'T!!! IT'S A GOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAL FOR AL QUDS, RIGHT AT THE END OF HALF TIME! AL QUDS NOW 1-0 UP!!! IS IT OVER FOR GIANT ZUCCHINI?

47 min: The whistle blows and the score at half time is 1-0 to Al Quds. Despite missing a penalty, Al Quds have gained the lead with a last minute effort. Meanwhile, Giant Zucchini, despite having the majority of the chances, have failed to score, and they are now struggling with Humm sent off. Can Giant Zucchini win this with 10 men, or will Al Quds stamp their authority over this match in the second half? We will see when we return for the second half of this riveting encounter.

Lemmitania

14-06-2003, 07:34

Coming to you from balmy Brazillico, this is Shemp Wooley on the Lemmitanian Radio Network. Tonight, the Lemmings face the Audioslavia Slaves in the World Cup round of sixteen. These teams met in the qualifiers and the Lemmings squeaked by with a hard-fought two-one victory. Now, it’s win or go home, and we’re here to find out whether the boys in orange can repeat their success against this tough Audioslavia squad. We’re thirty minutes from kickoff, and joining me in the booth are the villainous Clem Gilson and Gil Lemson. It would be stretching a point to call them gentlemen, so I’ll just say, guys, “welcome”. And I want to make it clear that I use the word facetiously.

Clem: Ouch, Shemp.

Gil: No ‘ard feelings, right Shemp? We’re buddies, ain’t we?

Shemp: I’d just like to say for the record-- in case we have any international listeners-- that Lemmitania does have civilization. We are not all a bunch of barbarians.

Clem: Ouch again, Shemp.

Gil: Oh, ‘e loves us.

Shemp: Like hell I do. Before we begin discussing football, do you men have any illicit activities you want to fill us in on today? Burn down the Brazillico Grand last night, or anything?

Gil: Somebody burned down our bleedin’ otel last night?! Why di’n’t somebody tell me? I was asleep an’ could ‘ave been killed!

Clem: Nobody burned down the hotel.

Gil: Are you sure? Shemp jus’ said--

Clem: Ignore Shemp. He’s just royally pissed at us.

Gil: Why is that?

Clem: He thinks we’re hooligans.

Gil: ‘ooligans? Us? Well, I admit I like to party, and anyone ‘oo ‘eard the Lunatic Goofballs broadcast knows ‘ow much you like to party. But we’re nothin’ compared to the Lemvoola Leemcats’ fans, wot?

Clem: Be that as it may. We’re out of Shemp’s favor.

Gil: Shemp, say it ain’t so!

Shemp: You know what? I’m not talking to you anymore... What? What! Sally, you’ve got to be kidding me. Oh, for crying out loud... Well, folks, our director has just shown me the clause in my contract that says I’m obligated to spend the pregame talking football with whatever idiots LRN picks to be commentators. So... “gentlemen...” what do you think about tonight’s matchup?

Clem: A replay of the fifth qualifying match, and that one was a doozy. Should be a great game, Shemp.

Gil: I was readin’ up on Audioslavia in preparation for tonight’s broadcast--

Shemp: You’re kidding me.

Gil: Seriously, I was. See? I got this ‘ere book wot’s called “A to the U to the D to the I to the O to the S to the L to the A to the V to the I to the A: Wot’s that spell? Audioslavia, mate--”

Shemp: Let me see that.

Gil: Grabby little Dean of sports, ain’t you?

Shemp: That’s not what it’s called. This isn’t even a book. It’s a page ripped out of a CD liner. By a band called “RATM,” apparently.

Gil: Anyway, it seems the nations of Soundgardenia and the Republic of the Machine got together and formed the country of Audioslavia--

Shemp: Where do you get this stuff?

Gil: It’s common knowledge. To the educated listener it is, anyway.

Shemp: Sally, can you check this out? If Gil’s telling the truth, I’ll eat my hat.

Gil: You ain’t wearin’ a ‘at, Shemp.

Shemp: I’ll eat something of your choice.

Gil: If I ‘ad my choice, you’d ‘ave joined us for fish fry the other day--

Shemp: Don’t even bring that up. Don’t even. Look, what does this business have to do with the game?

Gil: I dunno. Just thot it might provide some in’eresting background information for the listeners.

Clem: Another interesting fact, Shemp: Audioslavia’s apparently been promoting tonight’s game as some sort of grudge match. Like a wrestling match.

Shemp: Yes... they’re really hyping it... The stands are packed with loyalists for both sides...

Gil: Wot’s with the brooding sidelong glances like you’re thinking of strangling me, Shemp?

Shemp: I’m ignoring you.

Gil: Then stop looking at me.

Clem: Boys, boys, let’s all be friends here. Uh, Shemp, what’s the line on the game?

Shemp: Lemmitania’s favored in a close one, Clem.

Clem: Wow. Who would have thought going into the tournament that the boys in orange would be favored in a round of sixteen match?

Shemp: Look, the ref’s bringing the captains out to midfield for the cointoss, thank goodness. I’m out of here. What? Oh, thank you Sally. See, Gil, I told you you were full of it.

Clem: For the edification of our listeners, I should explain that Shemp’s been under a lot of stress lately. We hope he’ll be back in form soon.

Gil: It’s this extended stay in a foreign country. Doesn’t do right by ‘im, don’t you know?

Clem: Yeah, it’s possible that’s what it is. It’s also possible that you’re driving him to the brink of insanity.

Gil: Me? Wot about you?

Clem: Look, pal, I’m the straight man. You’re the one coming up with the crazy antics.

Gil: Oh yeah? An’ ‘oo passed out on the air and nearly suffocated in ‘is own vomit, then?

Clem: Well, that would be me. But who-- well, we shouldn’t talk about that.

Gil: An’ whose idea was it to call Mike from the ‘oosegow an’ get ‘im to--

Clem: Shaddup about that. They’re tossing the coin. Do you want to call it?

Gil: Fine fine foin. The captains of the two teams are out at midfield, that’s-- lemme see that program. Zach de la Rocha for Audioslavia an’ Mick Mickelson for Lemmitania.

Clem: Mick Mickelson’s not captain of Lemmitania, Mick Chang is. For cripes sake, you’re even reading off the program and you got it wrong.

Gil: Then ‘ow come Mick Mickelson’s out at midfield?

Clem: That’s Mick Chang. Look. You see that guy on the sideline, number fifteen, with blond hair and blue eyes and the name “Mickelson” printed on his back? That’s Mick Mickelson. You see the guys at midfield, number four, Asian, with the name “Chang” on his back? That’s Mick Chang. How the hell do you keep mixing them up?

Gil: They’re both named Mick.

Clem: So what?!

Gil: An’ they look precisely alike.

Clem: Is something wrong with your brain?

Gil: Not that I’m aware of.

Clem: Is there some reason that two guys who look nothing alike get mixed up in your head just because they have the same first name? Maybe you should see a specialist.

Gil: Wot sort of specialist?

Clem: I don’t know. A semiologist or something.

Gil: As long as ‘e don’t poke me with needles or anythin’. Sally, could you get a semiologist in to see me at ‘alftime?... Don’t ask me wot that is. It was Clem wot said it.

Clem: Just forget it. I think you’re hopeless.

Gil: I ‘ope not.

Clem: For our listeners, I’d just like to relate that the Lemmings won the toss and elected to begin with possession. The Slaves’ captain, de la Rocha, does not look pleased about that. He rather violently declared that his team would defend the left goal, and he just stalked away to his sideline looking like he wanted to kill someone.

Gil: That’s just the way ‘e is. Remember the last game?

Clem: Yes, he does seem to be an angry young man. Like the one in the Billy Joel song.

Gil: Probably that’s who ‘e emulates. I imagine de la Rocha’s a big Billy Joel fan.

Clem: Undoubtedly. And here come the starters onto the field. For the Lemmings, it’ll be the usual Henneman, Bingson, and Rosco on the front line, Mickelson, Rosco, and Lemstater in the middle, and in the backfield, Hartford, Chang, Spud, and getting his first start of the tournament, Mitchell McSheen in place of Mike Dubrowski, who’s still nursing that left hamstring. In goal, the stoic Mel Flanders. There’s been talk that Mel might retire after the tournament.

Gil: From Rugby!?

Clem: Just from football, I think.

Gil: Oh, well that’s all right then.

Clem: And the ref’s bringing the ball out to midfield, Roger Rosco takes possession, there’s the whistle, and the game is under way. One side of the stadium is packed with orange, the other-- well, it’s sort of a funky mix, but they’re all Audioslavia fans.

Gil: Audioslavians don’t like to be dictated to about what colors to wear.

Clem: Who does? Rosco passes it to Henneman, who’s bringing it forward, and the Slaves, who we know from the previous match against them are a strong defensive team, go into a tight formation that’s likely to give us trouble the whole game...

Lemmitania

14-06-2003, 07:36

(25th minute)

Gil: You know, one thing about all this runnin’ I’ve been describing is, it’s ‘ard on the knees. That’s on account of each time your take a step when you’re running, you put your ‘ole weight right there-- bam!-- on your knee every time you come down. Of course, you could say the same thing about the ankle or the thigh-bone, but really it’s the knee wot absorbs the impact on account of there’s like wot you might call a li’le sack o’ jelly in there. Right under the kneecap, did you know that Clem?

Clem: I think I’ve heard that somewhere. By the way, the Slaves just took a nice shot, Chang got his foot in there though, and slowed it down just enough for Flanders to grab it. He’s rolling it back out the Chang going the other way, Mick passed it across to McSheen, up the Mickelson--

Gil: Yeah, anyway, as I was sayin’, After a while, all this runnin’ around starts to wear out that li’le jelly sack. Like when the struts go bad on your car and then every time you ‘it a pot’ole you get a nasty wollop right at the base of your spine.

Clem: What are you talking about?

Gil: I’m talking about knee strain, Clem.

Clem: Do you realize there’s a game on?

Gil: ‘ell yes, I do. I’m calling it, wotta you think? You wanna ‘ear wot’s going on on the field? I’ll tell you: ‘e’s kicking the ball, now another bloke’s kicking it. An’ another. You think I don’t ‘ave time for a li’le side story to keep the fans at ‘ome from tunin’ the bloody radio to something more in’eresting?

Clem: Well, you have a point.

Gil: It’s a long bloody game.

Clem: That it is.

Gil: Right. So let’s say you spend that entire long bloody game runnin’ up and down a field. Wot you think that does to the jelly sacks in your knees? Starts to make ‘em get crunchy-like and then you get wot they call “knee-joint breakdown.”

Clem: Uh-huh. And what are the symptoms?

Gil: Well for one thing, you can’t bend your knees. Makes runnin’ a pretty sight ‘arder than for those wot got bendable ones.

Clem: I can imagine. What other symptoms are there?

Gil: Wull, the crunchy jelly sack substance becomes all ‘ard like cement, an’ if you’re not careful, it can get into your bloodstream an’ cause strokes an’ wotnot.

Clem: Really.

Gil: I can see you’re skeptical, but it ‘appened to me brother-in-law.

Clem: Who, Tom?

Gil: No, another brother-in-law you never met. ‘is name’s... Mick. Mick Michaels.

Clem: Seems unlikely, Gil.

Gil: Oh yeah? Well, ask me poor widowed sister if ‘er ‘usband didn’t die of a stroke from knee-joint breakdown.

Clem: Which sister, Janice?

Gil: ...Michaela.

Clem: Did you notice a goal was scored recently?

Gil: Oh, bloooooooody ‘ell. ‘ow is it you always manage to distract me when I’m supposed to be callin’ ‘em? Okay, ‘oo scored it?

Clem: Audioslavia.

Gil: Mike says that goal was by Chris Connell. ‘e’s their forward.

Clem: He’s one of their forwards. So at the thirty minute mark, the Slaves draw first blood. You know, it’s interesting, that captain of theirs--

Gil: De la Rocha.

Clem: How is it you can remember their players’ names, and not ours?

Gil: ‘e’s the only one I know. I can remember ‘im on account of that crazy ‘air ‘e’s got. Wot were you going to say about ‘im?

Clem: Just that he looks as angry as ever. I wonder how many they have to score before he relaxes?

Gil: Maybe ‘is knees ‘urt ‘im.

...

This is Shemp Wooley, returning with trepidation for the halftime report. Well, men, what disasters befell us in the first half?

Clem: None to speak of. Audioslavia’s ahead one nothing.

Shemp: No one was killed, no fish were destroyed, no animals harmed?

Gil: I deny all knowledge of any such--

Shemp: All right, all right. Listen, since we’re stuck working together for the duration, let’s call a truce. I won’t criticize you, you don’t do anything illegal. Okay?

Clem: As far as can be proven, we have yet to do anything illegal.

Gil: An’ we stand by those words.

Shemp: And you’re not going to do anything illegal, either. Right?

Clem: Certainly not.

Gil: As far as can be proven.

Shemp: All right. So... what have we seen so far? The Lemmings are keeping it close?

Clem: Oh, absolutely.

Gil: They still ‘ave their knees, Shemp.

Shemp: You mean their legs? You mean their legs aren’t getting tired?

Gil: No, I mean no one’s ‘ad ‘is knees amputated yet. A knee-ectomy they call it. ‘as to be done in severe cases of knee-joint breakdown, don’t you know?

Shemp: Clem, is he making sense?

Clem: I can’t always tell...

(58th minute)

Clem: Audioslavia again on the attack, looking for a second goal, and the way things have been going, that would probably be an insurmountable lead. Chris Connell with the ball at the top of the box, Spud and Chang are right there with him and he passes it to Marotta who sends it to de la Rocha--

Gil: “Mad Zach,” they call ‘im.

Clem: No, they don’t.

Gil: Yes, they do.

Clem: De la Rocha gets a little tied up with the defender, that’s Dale Hartford, and almost loses the ball, bumps against Hartford rather hard after sending a pass back to Marotta-- no card for it, but that was a little uncalled-for. Hartford follows the ball, and de la Rocha’s free, Marotta sends it back, oh, he’s got a clear shot-- and McSheen out of nowhere with a nasty tackle, de la Rocha’s on the ground and Hartford’s got the ball, de la Rocha’s back on his feet, looking to the ref, I think he’s expecting McSheen to be carded, but there’s nothing. This referee doesn’t pull out a card unless somebody’s knocked cold. And de la Rocha does not like that at all. Hartford trying to take the ball back out of the box, passes it to Chang but Marotta’s right there, they need to give it to Flanders, and de la Rocha is screaming at Mike McSheen! And now he’s been carded! A yellow card against Zach de la Rocha for unsporting conduct! He’s glaring at the ref, trying to get control but that anger is bubbling over. McSheen looks frightened. And de la Rocha starts screaming at McSheen again. Zach de la Rocha is in a rage against McSheen and Chris Connell steps in to hold him back. The ref has drawn the red card, de la Rocha is out of the game. Gil, I have to wonder what McSheen might have said to prompt this tirade.

Gil: McSheen’s been keeping Zach down all along. ‘e’s ‘ad excellent coverage on ‘im, an’ I think Zach’s just frustrated.

Clem: I’m astounded that you’ve seen enough of the game to draw that conclusion.

Gil: I see all.

Clem: The hell you do. Now Connell’s leading de la Rocha off the field, having some trouble getting him to go, but he does seem to be getting Zach to calm down a little. None of their teammates seem like they want to get near de la Rocha. Connell seems like the only one who can bring him under control.

Gil: ‘e’s got a lot of anger, that one does. “Mad Zach,” they call ‘im.

Clem: No they don’t.

Gil: Maybe they do.

Clem: Is Chris Connell a sound guardian for such an explosive temper, I wonder?

Gil: Jus’ so long as ‘e doesn’t bite somebody in the knee or something.

Clem: Okay, it looks like we’re finally going to be getting back underway. Maybe with the advantage the Lemmings can finally get a goal.

Gil: You know, McSheen looks shaken. ‘e’s coming off the field.

Clem: Yes, Molvo’s coming on in substitution. I think in some spiritual sense, de la Rocha’s defeated McSheen.

Gil: See wot it gets ‘is team, though.

(77th minute)

Clem: Henneman with the ball now, passes it back to Bingson. Audioslavia’s still playing it very tough, even without their captain and spiritual leader, if you will, on the field.

Gil: They call ‘im “Mad Zach.”

Clem: No they don’t.

Gil: Wull, I do.

Clem: You go right ahead and do that. Bingson sends it back to Mickelson, the defenders are playing it warily, they haven’t had much of an attack since de la Rocha was carded, and I think the Slaves’ defense is beginning to get tired. Mickelson passes to Rosco, who feints toward goal and then passes to Henneman, and he takes the shot, and goooooal! The Lemmings tie it up! The orange shirts in the stands are going crazy! 77 minutes into it and we finally equalize! What a relief, eh, Gil?

Gil: Oh yes. Now we can draw.

Clem: No, there’s no draws after the group stage.

Gil: Wot, you mean when time runs out the referees vote on a winner?

Clem: No, you play an extra period.

Gil: Oy. I was afraid of that. Wull, maybe the boys can ‘urry up and score another.

...

Gil: Now, ‘ow many of these ‘ere extra periods do we ‘ave to sit through?

Clem: That was it.

Gil: Wot, you mean, now they draw? Couldn’t they ‘ave just let us go ‘ome early and skip the extra time?

Clem: Now we go to shootout.

Gil: Shootout! You’re kidding me. If nobody scores in the extra time, they ‘ave a shootout?

Clem: Absolutely. You read the FIFA rules.

Gil: I don’t remember nothin’ about a shootout. So wot kind of guns do they use?

Clem: Are you doing this on purpose?

Gil: Doin’ wot?

Clem: Displaying your utter ignorance.

Gil: Well, I’d ‘ide it if I wasn’t ignorant of it. You know, there’s the things you know you know, and the things you know you don’t know. Then there’s thing things you don’t know you don’t know. An’ also the things you think you know, and the things you think you think you know, but you’re not sure. And then there’s the things you know, so I don’t ‘ave to. An’ one of those things is the rules of the game. So tell me ‘oo gets to shoot ‘oom first.

Clem: Just watch what happens and try not to interfere.

Gil: Okay, Clem.

Clem: First to kick will be Lemmitania. Henneman is first, he’s the team’s leading scorer in the tournament. The goalie’s watching him warily, Henneman lines it up, takes the kick and it’s a bullet, just knocked away! Nice save. Now Flanders takes his place. I’m sure de la Rocha’s rueing the fact that he can’t participate in the penalty kicks. Here’s the kick and Flanders reaches for it, it’s high. Just over the net, he was trying to send it over Flanders head and just went a little too high. Next is Roger Rosco. He lines up his shot, looks like he’s going to go right and he does, and it’s good! Teammates are congratulating him on a nice kick. Now Flanders gets set, Connell to kick... here it comes and Flanders can’t get to it. We’re tied at one-all in the shootout. Mickelson is next. He’s got one goal in the tourney. He takes a rocket shot, almost right at the goaltender, and it’s in! Deflected off the goalie’s foot. A nice one. Flanders getting set... the shot a beauty, almost identical to Mickelson’s, but Flanders smothers it! Two-one Lemmitania after three shots. Bingson steps up, he’s got a pair of goals in the tourney. Draws back his foot and drills it just past the goaltender’s outstretched hands, a lovely curving shot into the net. The pressure’s really on the Slaves now,if they miss this one it’s all over. Flanders swaying a little, ready to dive either way, and the shot to his right-- he gets a hand on it but it’s in! Three-two Lemmings after four shots. The fifth kick will be by Wilco Rosco. His brother netted one, and if he can do the same, this shootout will end with a Lemmitania victory. Wilco looks very serious, takes his step up, and drills it! But the goalie gets a foot on it, sends it clear. Nice save. So the Slaves are still alive. This will be their final chance. Marotta will take the shot. Flanders looks very focused. It all comes down to this. Marotta draws back, nails it, and Flanders deflects it! The Lemmings have done it! A three-two shootout victory, and the final score is two-one Lemmitania! The Lemmings advance to the quarterfinals!

Gil: Wow, that was truly exciting. Why can’t the entire game be nothing but penalty kicks?

Clem: That just wouldn’t be football.

14-06-2003, 07:53

*With every passing day, two things become obvious: GTV plans to woo Gil into a tv contract as soon as the World Cup is over, and they can't wait to televise a game betwen Lemmitania and Team Goofball.*

Giant Zucchini

14-06-2003, 08:20

World Cup 4:
Round of 16:
Giant Zucchini vs Al Quds - Live Telecast

Welcome back. Currently, Al Quds is leading Giant Zucchini 1-0, with the Zucchinis one man down. Things look bleak for the Zucchinis, and it looks like it's Al Quds going through to the quarters. The teams have finished their team talks and are walking out into the field.

45 min: Al Quds start off, passing backward.

48 min: Gung with a run wide left. He runs into Ibn Khaldun, but he sidesteps beautifully. Khaldun following through with the tackle...and it's a foul for Gung. The ref signals that Gung was involved in shirt-tugging. Gung looks unperturbed.

57 min: Al Quds playing the ball around the back. They seem content just to knock the ball around and retain possession. Now a forward pass to Hakim Bey who slips it to Malaclypse the Younger. He knocks it forward and Hakim Bey runs for it. He knocks it forward to Malaclypse who IS INCHES AWAY FROM OOG...Good save. Oog pounced on the ball before Malaclypse could do anything with it.

65 min: Giant Zucchini now with a run down the left with Krak. He just charges towards the penalty area...HE'S DOWN!!! Ali Bin Rabban with a bad tackle there. The referee reaches for his pocket, and it's a yellow for Ali Bin Rabban. Phoot with the free kick. He kicks...it's over the wall...into the hands of the keeper. At least it was on target.

86 min: Malaclypse the Younger now with another blistering run down the right. Thunk runs, trying to catch up with him, SLAMS INTO HIM!!! HE CAN'T DO THAT!!! Thunk just let off with a warning. Malaclypse with the free kick...oh, that's a waste, it flew wide right of the goal. This will be a goal kick for the Zucchinis.

91 min: Time is almost up, and it looks like Al Quds goes through to the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Giant Zucchini with the throw in. Gung throws it to Phoot, who slides IT INTO THE PENALTY AREA...THE AL QUDS KEEPER RUSHES OUT TO GRAB IT...IT'S A GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THEY DON'T COME MORE IMPORTANT THAT THIS!!! URK RAN INTO THE PENALTY AREA AND SLAMMED THE BALL INTO THE NET BEFORE THE KEEPER COULD GET A TOUCH TO IT. IT'S NOW 1-1 AND EVERYBODY IS EQUAL FOR THE QUARTERS AGAIN!!!

94 min: The whistle blows and it looks like we will have to go into the golden goal. Al Quds do have the numerical advantage, but do not write off Giant Zucchini. Golden goal action coming up just after the break.

Ariddia

14-06-2003, 11:35

Ariddia vs. Lunatic Goofballs

Tim: "I hate it when the prognostics say we're going to win, Rob, you know that?"

Rob: "Uh... Would you rather the odds were in favour of us being crushed?"

Tim: "Yes. This is giving me a bad feeling, that's all."

Rob: "Uhuh... Well, the two teams are on the pitch now. Before the anthems are played, let's take a look at the team selections."

ARIDDIA

GK: Vicky Hill (23)
DEF: Tina Realm (9), Jean Cerf (4), Nathaniel Guildenstern (21), John Ness (13)
MID: Michel Legris (8 ), Ranjit Khan (7), Alain Vinazzu (10), Kim Sun-Pak (19)
ATT: Terry Singh (16), Myrtille Dubois (6)

1st minute:
Tim: "The Goofball players have the ball, pass... I don't believe it!"

Rob: "That was fast moving from Khan... He's intercepted, passes with a long shot, Singh and Dubois are running... Singh has it, slips through... Would you believe it, THAT'S A GOAL!!"

Tim: "And the stadium is going wild!! Goal by Singh, first minute, and some superb playing by both Khan and Singh!"

Rob: "Still getting a bad feeling, Tim? The team's in great form!"

6th minute:
Rob: "Nice defending, Realm clears it, and Legris starts a counter attack. Passes to Kim... No, one of the Goofball lads was in the way. Goofball coming back... Oh, nice playing, as he gets past Cerf... And Hill saves it."

10th minute:
Rob: "Singh, Kim and Dubois passing the ball between themselves, not letting Goofball's defence get close... Ooops, I spoke too soon, Goofball intercepts. They got the ball off Singh?! Do you remember the last time anyone managed that?"

Tim: "Don't think any of us was born yet... Anyway, Dubois gets it back, after a bit of a scuffle. She shoots... Perfect save by Goofball's goalkeeper."

29th minute:
Tim: "Well, some fierce playing on both sides. And both defences looking very strong. Ness stopped two well-played attacks, for such a young lad..."

Rob: "Wait, Legris has slinked through, he shoots... And it's off the bar."

34th minute:
Rob: "Corner for Ariddia, played by Kim. Well aimed, Khan gets it with his head... Again, the goalkeeper saves it."

40th minute:
Tim: "Realm intercepts, clears... No, re-intercepted. Cerf moves in, just not quite fast enough. It's a shot for Goofball... No problem here for Hill, she saves it."

47th minute:
Tim: "Welcome back, for the second half of the match between Ariddia and Lunatic Goofballs. Ariddia in the lead so far with one goal to nil."

Rob: "A goal scored in the first minute of the game, and there have been none since then. Still quite some time to go, though..."

58th minute:
Tim: "A long shot, with the Goofball forward gets without problem. He's going to pa- No, he shoots! A very long shot, and... It's in! Oh my, he took Hill by surprise here! I think she almost brushed it with her fingers here, what a plunge... But just not quick enough. Lunatic Goofballs equalises. Well, this should make things interesting..."

63rd minute:
Rob: "A penalty kick, for that? Come off it..."

Tim: "No, that was a definite foul. Ness didn't do it on purpose, I think, but the rules are the rules."

Rob: "Goofball shoots, Hill dives... It's in. Lunatic Goofballs take the lead..."

Tim: "I don't think anyone could have stopped a shot like that. Well, this changes everything..."

Rob: "Yes, Ariddia now needs to score two more goals. Yikes..."

84th minute:
Rob: "Now THAT's a foul!"

Tim: "The referee seems to agree with you. Let's see who's going to play it... Singh is."

Rob: "Come on... He can't miss... He can't miss..."

Tim: "He shoooots... It's in!!"

Rob: "Whew... I think everyone held their breath on this one. We definitely needed that equaliser... Now we're back where we started."

90th minute:
Tim: "It's a corner for Lunatic Goofballs..."

Rob: "Stop biting your nails, Tim. Look at Vicky Hill... She's steadying her breath, preparing. She knows she can't allow them to score now..."

Tim: "Played quickly. Realm leaps to get it, so does Cerf. Missed, that Goofball attacker sends it in with his head... Hill saves!! Vicky Hill has saved Ariddia from a last minute defeat!"

Rob: "Whew... You know, I think this game is going to put a lot of stress on a lot of people's nerves..."

95th minute:
Tim: "Two all... We go into additional time. Join us after a short break, for the end of this nerve-racking match..."

Giant Zucchini

14-06-2003, 15:00

World Cup 4:
Round of 16:
Giant Zucchini vs Al Quds - Live Telecast

Welcome back. After 90 minutes plus extra time, the teams are still level at 1 apiece. A golden goal will be needed to separate these teams. Who will make it? We will find out immediately as Giant Zucchini starts of the first period of the golden goal.

92 min: And now Giant Zucchini with the ball. Urk flies down the centre of the pitch. He comes up against Omar Khayyam, HE CHIPS IT OVER HIM AND CONTINUES ON HIS WAY, THE DEFENDERS ARE NOWHERE NEAR HIM, HE'S IN FRONT OF THE KEEPER...GOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WHAT A GOAL THERE, HE SLAMMED IT INTO THE NET JUST BEFORE REACHING THE PENALTY BOX, THE AL QUDS KEEPER DID NOT HAVE A CHANCE!!! TWO GOALS LATE ON IN THE MATCH BY URK HAVE SECURED GIANT ZUCCHINI A PLACE IN THE QUARTER-FINALS!!! Urk is truly Giant Zucchini's hero, scoring the Zucchinis' first goal deep in extra time as well as the crucial golden goal. Can Giant Zucchini go one step further into the semi-finals? This remains to be seen. Until then, it's goodbye from us.

Giant Zucchini: 2
Urk (91, 92 (GG))

Al Quds: 1
Hakim Bey (46)

14-06-2003, 15:23

The country is in an uproar as the Royal Lancers upset the Alastair team! Millions in the capital have painted their faces black and neon green, Lancer colors and merchandise is selling by the billions. This is a great improvement over the performance in WC2 and even better than WC3! This is very good considering that the Lancers are also Steel Shadows' basketball team. LAN-CERS! LAN-CERS! LAN-CERS! LAN-CERS!

Ariddia

14-06-2003, 18:15

Tim: "Welcome back, for the decisive end to the match between Ariddia and Lunatic Goofballs! We've seen some superb playing here tonight, and both teams have kept us on the edge of our seats. The score is currently two all, so we go into... Golden Goal mode!"

Rob: "Yes, and I imagine a lot of people back home tonight are holding their breath. Ariddia now has to score before Goofballs does. And it's one of those moments when anything really can happen..."

8th minute:
Tim: "Both teams have been a little edgy in these first few minutes, trying to find the right balance between pressing forward and not taking too many risks. Contrary to earlier, neither team is allowed to conceded a single goal now..."

Rob: "Singh reportedly said before the match he wanted to see Ariddia reach the semi-finals this time, something the team has never done yet. Well, for that, they first need to score one last, decisive goal here tonight..."

Tim: "That's right, in World Cup 2 Ariddia reached the quarter finals..."

Rob: "Khan has the ball, he's made the most of a mistake by Goofballs' defence, he's got a... He shoots!! It's saved... The goalkeeper saves it. And a huge sigh of relief from the Goofball supporters..."

14th minute:
Rob: "Cerf intercepts, clears it, Guildenstern passes to Legris... Tackle against Legris... The referee says nothing, Ness moves in to intercept, it's passed on... Realm and that Goofball attacker both running. Realm gets it, turns to pass... It's intercepted... He shoots... It hits under the bar, bounces back, Ness rushes in to clear it... The attacker gets their first, shoots... It's in."

Tim: "It's a goal... Lunatic Goofballs have just scored the Golden Goal... They're through, Ariddia are out..."

Rob: "The Goofball supporters are cheering... Hill looks stricken..."

Tim: "Well, that's it. As in World Cup 1, Ariddia are knocked out in the Round of 16. If this truly was Singh's last match, he can hold his head high, it was well played."

Rob: "The players from both teams are congratulating each other. Well, it's over for Ariddia, but I hope you enjoyed watching them play... This was Ariddia versus Lunatic Goofballs, final score 3-2, from Brazillico. Goodnight..."

Jurassica

14-06-2003, 18:43

Ann Ounza: ...Jurassica supporters are tonight celebrating the shock win over Total n Utter Insanity in WCIV. The team entered the match expecting defeat, but a surprize goal in the second half gave Jurassica a 2-1 win. Coach Ivor Problem was unable to give a statement as he was speechless, but a spokesman for the team had the following to say.

Spokesman: The whole team are delighted if not totally stunned by this win. Coach Ivor was not expecting the team to get through to the semi-finals, in fact he wasn't really expecting them to qualify. We weren't looking forward to the match with TnUI, as they are a strong team and have played supremely well in the previous competitions. They played a fantastic game and made us work for our win. We don't really think we can go much further in the World Cup, but the chance to play in the semi-finals is an amazing feat for a team that failed to qualify for WC3.

Ann Ounza: I know that I will be glued in front of the TV for the next round.

14-06-2003, 19:52

OOC: Sorry for the slack RPing, I just pulled a night shift at work and I’m pretty tired.

IC: *You’re watching Sportsdesk with Jimmy Cordona, the Brazillico Sports Network 30 minute sports news show.*

Jimmy: Well, a lot happening in the world of sports today, and let’s start off with the biggest event on earth happening in our own backyard, the World Cup with Brazillico facing off against Tanah Burung.

The action got underway early with Oan Ini Marcal receiving a pass in the box and taking a shot, forcing McMario to establish his presence early and make the save.

Then, coming back in the 11th Minute, Marcos plays a long ball into McGarnicle, who heads it on it net, but Bi Kikere jumps up and gets a touch on it to push it out of play.

That was just a taste of what the match had to bring, as it was an uptempo, run and gun styled game, with the keepers having a big say in the outcome of the match.

37th Minute, Oan Ini Marcal gets a chance to redeem himself, getting another ball in the box. Gulia comes in with the sliding tackle, that’s a foul and the ref points to the spot.
Ensuing penalty kick, Syahnun steadies his nerve and strikes towards the right of net. McMario guesses right and comes up with the huge save, but keeps the ball in play. Syahnun gets his own rebound and puts it wide, and look at the expression on his face, he knows that could prove to be costly.

Let’s jump to the second half now, Brazillico has a free kick in a good position in the 57th Minute. Luis takes it and plays the short ball to De Jesus. De Jesus one-times it up in the top shelf, where momma hides the cookie jar and it’s 1-0 Brazillico.
Well worth another look, we see he struck the ball with power and precision towards the top-left portion of the net and that it kisses the crossbar going in.

The best chance for Tanah Burung came in the 74th Minute where Ab Francisco took a hard shot at McMario, who was able to stop it, but concede a corner in the process.
Ensuing corner, Hasan Alhamid bends one in the box to Ab Francisco who gets a clean head to it, but McMario comes up with the sensational diving save to maintain the Brazillico lead at 1-0.

And that’s how this game would end, 1-0. Brazillico’s first win of the tournament propels them to the elite eight and the slow start in the group stages have been forgotten. Man of the match honours go to McMario who collected eight saves in the game. Some honourable mentions have to go out to Bi Kikere who also made seven saves and De Jesus, who besides scored the winning goal, found himself spearheading almost every Brazillico attack.

We’ll have some post-game commentary from the players and coaches involved afterwards, but let’s take a quick look at some of the scores from the other games.

Rhaken Kull 1 - Spaam 3
Dennisov 2 - Haraki 1 (Golden Goal)
Tanah Burung 0 - Brazillico 1
Lemmitania 2 - Audioslavia 1 (3-2 on penalties)
Giant Zucchini 2 - Al Quds 1
Alasdair I Frosticus 2 - Steel Shadows 4
Ariddia 2 - Lunatic Goofballs 3 (Golden Goal)
Jurassica 2 - Total n Utter Insanity 1

OOC: I made a playoff tree if only I could find a way to host it, I’d put it up.

Total n Utter Insanity

14-06-2003, 20:38

OOC: Sorry for the slack RPing, I just pulled a night shift at work and I’m pretty tired.

OOC: all my RPing has been slack :)

IC:
Spaam vs Dennisov
Brazillico vs Lemmitania
Giant Zucchini vs Steel Shadows
Lunatic Goofballs vs Jurassica

Interviewer: Well having a look at the Quarter Finals who do you fancy?

TnUI Manager: The hosts and current champions seem to be the best bet, but with all the shock upsets, who knows.

Interviewer: And if you had to choose?

TnUI Manager: Then I'd go with Lemmitania.

Interviewer: But I thought you said...

TnUI Manager: I did.

Interviewer: Well then why Lemmitania?

TnUI Manager: Sorry, I have to go now.

14-06-2003, 23:13

le bumpe

15-06-2003, 02:03

*Team Captain Barry Greenman looks up from the newspaper at the other Goofballs in his hotel room.* I've got bad news, mates. We're not favored to win against Jurassica. *holds up the article* See? *Holds it up next to the framed clipping on the desk that says that they were not favored to win against Arridia* Might as well pack it in, eh? *The shouts and laughter fills the room* Ah, okay. We'll show up, but I don't want any of you trying too hard. Afterall, if we're gonna lose, why tire ourselves out? *More shouts* What? You wanna prove em wrong again? *Much more affirmative shouting* Well, if that's what you want! Let's give the boys at home a reason to throw a party that nobody will ever remember!

Audioslavia

15-06-2003, 02:06

ooc: am i allowed to do this? rp using someone my opponents rp as a guideline for the events in mine? meh, fuck it, im doing it anyway, even tho i still lost :/ im bored and i wanna play :p

ic:

two socialist nations

two ambitious teams

one winner

welcome.... to judgement day....

(DUM DUM DUMMMMM)

Lemmitania - Audioslavia

LIVE, EXCLUSIVE, ONLY ON CHANNEL ONE, the ONLY channel with the world cup!, the ONLY channel called "one"!, the ONLY channel in Audioslavia!

Hello football fans, welcome to the second round of this years world cup for your complete unbiased analysis of this very game, as the mighty Audioslavia take on the evil satan-worshippers Lemmitania.

With us in the studio are representatives from both regions, from Audioslavia's neighbours Pearl Jamistad, we have Mike McCready, as expert in the style of play of our former republic of Soundgardia. We also have with us Maynard James Keynan, a well-travelled player himself who has played for Audioslavia's other former republic of Machinegrad, or to give it it's Lemmitanananaian name, Republic of the Machine, which, to be honest, is a much more imaginitive way of working the name Rage Against The Machine into a country's title, and im sure the president of Audioslavia was kicking himself as soon as he heard of the witty translation.

ooc: bastard :/

ic: Also with us is a representative of Lemmitania itself. He seems to decline giving us his name, on account of the fact that he has no mouth, but he is kinda small with big green hair, and he will do what ever you want him to do by merely clicking on him.

Mike: woh, dude, like... cool..

Maynard: interesting, would you like to form a band?

Mike: dude, another one?

Maynard: i dont think you can ever have enough bands, which reminds me, ive got to go and rehearse with A Prefect Shmirkle at half time

Mike: Dont you mean A Perfect Circle?

Maynard: No, this is a different band, its kinda hush hush, but i can tell you it contains Jason Newstead, Billy Corgan, and the three remaining members of Skunk Anansie.

Mike: o......k

Maynard: i dont need to explain my art to you, Michael.

Ok, the match is about to kick off, i was hoping to get some expert analysis about the game from you three but seing as your all too stoned/pretentious/uncapable of speech to help me i'll just go right over to our commentators Weebl and Bob (if you dont understand the following, go to www.weebl.jolt.co.uk :) )

Weebl: 'lo viewers

Bob: 'lo

Weebl: bob!... bob!

Bob: yes?

Weebl: game started!

Bob: mmmmmmm... game

Weebl: 0-0

Bob: already? that a quick score!

Weebl: no bob, no score.... wanker...

Bob: k

Weebl: mmmmmmmmm boring defensive football

Bob: mmmmmmmmmm

Bob: pie.

..25th minute..

Bob: .............with whos trousers?

Weebl: Bob! Bob!

Bob: yes?

Weebl: Audioslavia goal!

Bob: mmmmmmmmmm Chris Cornell

Weebl: mmmmmm... Cornell.

Bob: In Lemmitania they call him "Connell"

Weebl: whys that then?

Bob: theyre gay

Weebl: Blimey!

Bob: u know what they call Tom Morello?

Weebl: Me doesnt wanna know!

Bob: MAROTTA!!!

Weebl: noooooooooo!!!!!

54th minute...

Bob: Whats this then?

Weebl: Theres been a murder!

Bob: nooooooooo!!!

Weebl: no it ok, it just a foul

Bob: But they still playing!

Weebl: ooooh.... its not a foul....

Bob: Mad Zach look upset

Weebl: he want a foul?

Bob: yes

Weebl: Blimey

Bob: he walking off the pitch! with Cornell!

Weebl: nooooooo!

Bob: no, just Mad Zach walking off the field

Weebl: phew. why Mad Zack walk away

Bob: referee thinks hes gay

Weebl: Blimey

...78th minute...

Weebl: ooh...

Bob: oooohhh!

Weebl: ooooohh!!!

Bob: hey.. the ball gone...

Weebl: Ball in goal...

Bob: Ball in goal?

Weebl: yeeessss... wanker.

Bob: so we win then?

Weebl: no, we not win anymore!

Bob: noooooo

Weebl: tittybiscuits

Bob: so we lose? or we draw?

Weebl: we either win or lose, next goal wins!

Bob: Blimey.

penalties

Bob: there lots of penalties

Weebl: yes, there competition for penalties

Bob: yes, eeevverryooneee wants to be given a penalty, tell me something i dont know

Weebl: Noooooo, the competion means you have to score penalties to win competition!

Bob: ooooh.... have we won yet?

Weebl: no, we lose.

Bob: tittybiscuits

Weebl: Back to the studio!

Bob: mmmmmm.... studio

Well thankyou Weebl and Bob, you can rest assured you wont be commentating for Channel One anytime in the future

Mike: Why? cos our world cup is like, ended?

No, because they suck at commentating

Mike: oh, ok.

So Mike, the burning question: did Mad Zack's sending off result in Audioslavia's downfall

Mike: Mad Zack? who the f**k calls him Mad Zack?

he does

Gil: oi! e's in our studio! oh, im in the wrong studio, bugger

Mike: oh right.... hey i think i used to get stoned with him

It would explain a lot, especially for the last Pearl Jam record

Mike: hey dude chill man..... anyway, yeah Zack's departure from the fray really left the Machinegrad players in the lurch, in the end, after looking round the whole crowd for someone to try and get their careers back on track, they had to turn to their lone striker Cornell, but unfortunately, they didnt gel too well, and given Cornell's differences between the guys from the former republic of Soundgardia, the side was always gonna be in trouble.

Thats true mike, are you beginning to wish that Machinegrad had annexed Toolgrad or Wutangstan instead of forming Audioslavia?

Mike: sometimes, but they would have probably been just as commercial and bland AOR-orientated.

I suppose..... are we still talking about football

Mike: yeah, i think so

So anyway, thats it from Channel One, where todays game pivotted on a moment of madness on the football field from the victim of a moment of madness by a hairdresser. Until next year, adios

Lemmitania

15-06-2003, 05:43

<OOC>Awesome!! Nice to have a view into the neighboring booth. Sorry about the names, it was like 2 am when I was writing it.</OOC>

Tanah Burung

15-06-2003, 19:33

"It is a dark day in national history," said people's representative for territorial defence & sports Mau Kiri Rai, ordering a day of mourning throughout Tanah Burung. The streets were deserted and the people shocked at the hard tumble out of the World Cup: the country's worst international showing to date. "We do congratulate the brave comrades of Brazillico for their undaunted spirit, however, as well as their professional hosting."

Gambling on the Cup results, however, continued. The day opened with bookmakers listing Giant Zucchini as strong favourites to repat as champions, but a wave of sentimental betting (mostly by children) on Brazillico has altered the odds, in this country at least. Tanah Burung bookmakers have Brazillico at 2-1, Giant Zucchini at 5-2, and the other six teams well behind.

15-06-2003, 22:17

With the 4-0 win of Brazillico still likely echoing in the hearts of the Lemmings from the previous World Cup, manager Emilio Curtiba had the following to say about their quarter final match against Lemmitania.

“They’re a better team than the one we pelted 4-0. They have gained experience and look much better than the side we faced four years ago. I would be shocked is this game wasn’t a close affair.”

The match, to be held at the Kalita Sports Complex, the site of Brazillico’s previous win is expected to be yet another sellout and the Brazillico Sports Network, who are broadcasting the match are expecting upwards of 80 million viewers.

All matches in this round promise to be close affairs with all teams relatively similarly talented. Giant Zucchini against Steel Shadows, a battle between two powerhouses at San Chavez promises to be an interesting dual. At Corsa Paso, we have Spaam facing off against Dennisov, two teams who were watching the cup from home last time around. In the final game at Cordova, we have the perennial laughing stock of the tournament, but suddenly established Jurassica, facing off against a team from relative obscurity but flying high after an extra time victory over Ariddia in Lunatic Goofballs.

OOC: Results are being sent out now, they should be there by the time you check your telegram boxes.

Total n Utter Insanity

15-06-2003, 22:57

OOC: Apart from the Brazillico one, which I'm just doing :wink:

EDIT: Done

Lemmitania

16-06-2003, 02:24

Coach Lemster announces the starting lineup to face Brazillico in the quarterfinals:

Forwards:
Henny Henneman
Roger Rosco
Michael "Bing" Bingson

Midfielders:
Wilco Rosco
Mick Mickelson
Joey Lemstater

Defense:
Dale Hartford
Mick Chang (captain)
Mike Dubrowski
Will Spud

Goalkeeper:
Mel Flanders

Says Lemster, "We know just how tough this team is, having been eliminated by them from World Cup III. But we're here to play, and I'd say we have even chances-- the bookmakers be damned!"

Giant Zucchini

16-06-2003, 03:33

Here is Giant Zucchini's lineup for the Steel Shadow's quarter-finals:

Goalkeeper
1-Oog
Defenders:
2-Aargh
3-Humm
4-Quk
5-Thunk
Midfielders:
7-Kerrnigit
6-Poom
8-Krak
9-Gung
Forwards:
12-Zonk
11-Phoot

The first thing you will notice is that Zonk has taken over Urk's place as right striker. This is because Urk has injured his calf during training and will not be able to recover in time for the match. Meanwhile, Zonk has yet to prove himself and will be looking for his big break in this match.

16-06-2003, 04:04

*Joining the telecast in progress*

RP: Well, full time wasn’t enough and extra time has solved nothing, so we’re off to the penalty shootout.

JG: This has been a hard fought match, both teams put it all on the line and both want a spot in the semi-finals badly.

RP: For those of you joining this match late, Brazillico’s McGarnicle opened up the scoring in the 26th minute on a corner kick and Lemmitania drew even in the 64th Minute on a solid strike by Henneman, bringing the score to 1-1 where it stands at now.

Brazillico is first to shoot, Hernandez puts the ball on the spot, takes a shot.. GOAL! Nicely put to the left of the keeper and its 1-0!

Lemmitania’s goal scorer Henneman now brings himself to the box, the ref blows his whistle and Henneman takes a run at the ball.. SCORES! McMario guessed right, but too much power on the shot as Henneman makes it 1-1

Suarez now bringing himself to the spot. The Brazillican substitute shoots it dead center on net, nothing Mel Flanders could do on that one, he’d already committed himself to going right, 2-1 for the home team.

Roger Rosco now being called upon to take the next Lemmitanian penalty. Boots its to the right side of the net.. SAVE! McMario handled that nicely and Lemmitania has been denied a goal!

Veteran midfielder Luis is now standing at the top of the box. Jogs up to the ball, shoots to the right… GOAL! Flanders guessed left and Brazillico has pulled ahead 3-1!

JG: Flanders has not looked too good in this shootout yet, that’s twice where he guessed wrong and looked rather silly in the process.

Well, Bingson is now getting ready to take this penalty for Lemmitania. Strikes it hard with the left foot and its in! The lead is now at 3-2 for Brazillico after Bingson makes McMario look rather silly.

De Jesus prepares to shoot the next penalty for Brazillico. He has been the team’s best player thus far this tournament, you have to figure he’s going to be automatic here. Runs towards the ball, shoots… SCORES! Put that one up in the top-left corner, a show of true confidence and Brazillico leads 4-2!

Wilco Rosco now being called on to take the penalty for Lemmitania. What pressure… missing here will give Brazillico the win. Draws his foot back and shoots left. GOAL! No chance for McMario, that was well taken and just inside the left post. Lemmitania lives at 4-3.

The Lemming’s celebration is short-lived as Marcos prepares to take the penalty for Brazillico. A goal here means a win for Brazillico and a birth in the semi-finals. He prepares to shoot… it’s a Mule Kick! That wemt way over the net, echoes of Roberto Baggio in ’94, the pressure was too much for Marcos and he choked.

JG: That was brutal.

It’s essentially sudden death from here on in. Mick Chang now facing the daunting task of keeping Lemmitania alive. Takes a kick at the ball. GOAL! Tentative finish my Chang, but McMario had guessed wrong and we’re all square at four! Sudden death is officially underway!

JG: What drama. These teams have been so evenly matched, I really couldn’t envisage this game ending differently.

Looks like Fernandez is getting ready to take the penalty. Runs up towards the ball and kicks it to the right. SAVE BY FLANDERS! Fernandez unable to fool the goaltender and Flanders makes the diving save.

It could be all over for Brazillico now if Dale Hartford finds the back of the net on this shot. Hartford runs up… shoots right. Oh My! That’s several yards off target and the back and forth battle rages on!

JG: Marcos and Hartford belong in the same boat. Both had chances to win the games, and both crumbled under the pressure. They can’t be fully to blame though, this is football on the world’s stage and they’re competing for the biggest prize in international sport.

Cordova steadying his nerve as he prepares to take Brazillico’s 7th penalty. Closes in on the ball and strikes it with power to the left. GOAL! No trickery involved there, he just overpowered Flanders with that strike. 5-4!

Mickelson’s turn to try to keep this contest alive. He’s focused on the net and takes a shot.. STOPPED by McMARIO! No wait, it got through I think. McMario is lying on the ball. The referee is pointing to the goal signalling Mickelson scored. Let’s get another look at that.

*Camera shows Mickelson shooting to the left of the keeper. McMario guesses right and gets his body in the way. However, the ball pops out from underneath him and slowly rolls over the line just as McMario covers it up.*

JG: Indeed, it’s a goal. That was so close for McMario, he very nearly ended the game.

Gulia walks in the box preparing to take the penalty. He storms up to the ball and lazily chips one towards the center of the net. GOAL! What a cheeky penalty! Flanders dove right but Gulia had no intention of putting the ball there, he merely wanted to make Flanders look foolish and he succeeded in that.

Will Spud now faces the task of keeping Lemmitania’s World Cup hopes alive. He kicks the ball to the left of the keeper, SCORES! Easy one for Spud, McMario looked confused on that one and couldn’t really commit to making the save.

Well, we’re looking at the 17th shot to be taken in this penalty shootout which has been a closer affair than any could have anticipated. Brazillico’s Sequoia looks to take the penalty. Strikes it to the left.. SAVE! Flanders comes up huge there! He makes a great diving stop and gives his team a chance to win.

Joey Lemstater now has the opportunity of becoming the most popular man in Lemmitania if he could finish on this shot. Approaches the ball and tries it high and right. SAVE! Oh my.. what a save, that ball had top corner written all over it and McMario got the faintest of touches to redirect that ball away from the cage. Great stuff!

Brazillico’s 10th penalty taker is Lopez. We should note that if it stays tied after this round of penalties, the goalies will try their luck at beating each other. Get someone in the van to check that out, but I don’t believe that has ever happened in any previous World Cups. Lopez takes a run at the ball and puts it to the left of the keeper. GOAL! No mistaking that, he fooled the goaltender and the penalties are now 7-6 in Brazillico’s favour.

All the pressure in the world is now mounted on Mike Dubroski’s shoulders. A miss here would signal Lemmitania’s exit from the tournament. He shoots one in the direction of the keeper. McMario is diving left, but stretches his legs back. SAVE! He got a toe to it! It’s over, the crowd are going into ratches!

*Shot of the Brazillican supporters cheering wildly in the crowd, followed by a shot of the Brazillican players celebrating at midfield.*

What a finish for an impeccably close game. Brazillico takes it 7-6 on penalties and will face the winner of the Spaam/Dennisov game! There is going to be a huge party in Kalita tonight as well as for the rest of Brazillico. For Junior Gasol, this is Roberto Puyol saying good night!

16-06-2003, 04:31

The long-absent me says: Bumpness!

And get Clem n' Gil on the phone...if they can't get back into Lemmitania, then maybe we can find work for them...

Spaam

16-06-2003, 08:08

OOC: Well, I'm back to RP my final game.... and Brazillico, if you want someone to host it, I would be more than happy to.

Thom: And welcome back. After an impressive 3-1 victory over exciting new-comers Rhaken Kull, Spaam is finally out of the World Cup with a breathtaking loss to Dennisov in Golden Goal, after tying 1 all in normal time. Here are the highlights to that match.

....

Anny: Well, exciting match here tonight, with Spaam in the top 8, coming off a fantastic win over Rhaken Kull, to come against Dennisov, who only scraped through their last match with a Golden Goal.

Juan: You have to say that Spaam are favourites to get through to the Semi Finals, to play host team Brazillico in what should also prove to be a great match.

Anny: Agreed, but we will have to wait and see, because anything can happen in this game, as we experienced in the Qualifiers. Now here the teams come onto the field....

....

....

[45th minute]

Anny: What a half of Football! No goals scored, but a lot of chances from both teams, with Saavedra and Widjaja putting a lot of pressure on the Dennisov defense.

Juan: You can't forget Ajani's efforts in defense either, and Hoopai and Nevvytt giving us some excitement in the midfield. This is turning out to be a good game, and we are now coming into the 2nd half, where Spaam should really shine....

....

[49th minute]

Juan: And a mistake by Weddamm gives the Dennisov striker the ball.... he's in the clear.... coming up against Ajani.... he bunts it over to the Dennisov forward.... he shoots and SCORES! Dennisov have gotten the first goal of the match, with some nice play, and a very good shot past Truun.

Anny: Weddamm is not too happy with that, but everyone makes mistakes, and there is still half an hour to go here.

....

[80th minute]

Anny: Widjaja.... Saavedra.... Widjaja.... Saavedra.... where is the goal coming from?.... Widjaja who shoots and GOAL! Widjaja has gotten the equaliser!

Juan: Yep, typical setup from Widjaja and Saavedra has kept this all important quarterfinal alive for Spaam. The ball is being taken back....

....

[91st minute]

Anny: Byshai with the ball.... full time about to sound.... he has to give it a shot.... he breaks away! Shoots! SAVE! And thats full time and we're going into Golden Goal! What a match!

Juan: Last ditch attempt to take the game away in normal time there from Spaam but the Dennisov keeper made the right call and dove to the right to prevent Byshai's goal.

....

[98th minute]

Juan: 5 minutes into Golden Goal.... Dennisov striker with the ball.... breaks away.... Truun comes out to meet him.... he gets past and GOAL! Thats it folks, Dennisov has gotten through into the Semifinals.

Anny: Well, I think Truun committed himself too early there, and that maybe was a mistake that shouldn't've been made, but it doesn't matter now. The Spaam team are coming out to shake hands with the Dennisov players in a fantastic show of sportspersonship. The Dennisovians are celebrating with their first Semifinal appearance, which will be against Brazillico. We can see tears coming from some of the Spaam players.... Truun.... Hoopai.... but they can hold their heads up high, because they have done their nation proud with coming this far.

....

Thom: Well, thats it. Dennisov will meet Brazillico in the semifinals. The Spaam team is flying home tomorrow night, and will come home to a tickertape parade in the streets of Waerterstadt. We will also get an interveiw with Spaam National Football Coach Lopes Tosolini in two days time. But for now, we'll go to a break....

........

OOC: Well, thats it! At least my ranking should be anywhere between 5th and 8th :D And that should help me in WCV ;) Twould be nice to get in some friendlies now.... How about it Caras?

Dennisov

16-06-2003, 09:59

Incredible, the first ever quarter-final for the Dennisov team.

The golden goal against Haraki was even more valuable than the players and staff had even imagined.
A great game against one of the title candidates, Spaam. Even though the team was not in the list we published before the start of the worldcup of teams we expected to win it all, it will still be a great opportunity to learn.

The first half saw both teams play well, especially Saavedra abd Ajani impressed this reporter.

On the Dennisov team both Howe and Tretchak were playing their best football yet. At this rate the team which would score the first goal would most likely end up with a ticket for the semi-final game against this year's host, Brazillico.

The second half started with Dennisov passing the ball around. Right from the kick-off the midfielders put pressure on Weddamm, playing a furious forechecking kind of game. Though this had its risks, in this case it resulted in a magnificent opportunity as Gretzky ended up with the ball and with a perfectly placed shot passed Truun to take the lead. With the 1-0 on the scoreboard, but with so much time still left on the clock. Still the players of Spaam were pushing the Dennisov defense further and further back. Surely this time the defenders would be up to the task and not let this one slip.

Time slowly ticked away, the 60th minute went and passed, so did the 70th. Dennisov players were getting noticeably more nervous. This was a perfect chance to go through to the last four. Saavedra! OH MY GOD, NO!

*^%&*%$^!!!!

Sorry, listeners, this is just unbelievable!
We warned you about this player in the pre-game analysis, and he proved his class. Widjaja just scored, it's all level now at 1-1.
But that Saavedra, both Leetch and Morris should have known better, but there was no stopping him.

NOooooooooo! That was just too close for comfort listeners, a wonderful save by Tretchak just prevented our elimination by the 'foot' of Byshai. This game will now go into the dreadful golden-goal extra time. Dennisov has had some experience with this, perhaps this experience will give us the upper hand.

The start of extra time is going well, listeners, Dennisov seems to have the most possession, this must be exploited, and exploited immediately!
Come on guys!!! This is bad for my nerves, listeners, most of the action takes place on the left hand side of the pitch.
Morris with the ball, pushed up so much now, he better not loose the ball here! A nice flick to Neely, the whole left hand side is open now!
A break away for Gretzky!!
HE PASSES TRUUN!!! SURELY!?!

YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEES!
GOAL!
Oh My GOD!
We're THROUGH!
We're THROUGH!
We're THROUGH!

Dennisov are through to this year's semis my friends!!
Unbelievable.
Both teams are shaking hands, what a wonderful and close contest this was. What a wonderful performance of both teams. What a great player Saavedra is! But none of that is important anymore as Dennisov will now face Brazillico.
Tears on one side of the pitch, celebration on the other, can sport be any more beautiful than this?
...what if?
Yes listeners, it can still happen for us!
But first, Brazillico, the hosts.
We have to go now, listeners, but not for long, as we WILL be back soon with the other quarter finals.

And of course the semi final game:
Brazillico v. Dennisov
Do not miss that one folks, there is always a chance!

Spaam

16-06-2003, 17:46

Don't forget guys to sign up for World Cup V!

http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=36965

With 68 teams already putting their name forward, it should be a good one ;)

Lemmitania

16-06-2003, 19:44

Bringing you the sounds of swinging Brazillico, this is Shemp Wooley on the Lemmitanian Radio Network. Most of you just heard the Lemmings lose to Brazillico in one of the closest matches in World Cup history. Joining me for the post-game analysis is LRN’s own Clem Gilson.

Clem: Gil’s going to be joining us shortly.

Shemp: Oh, he is, is he? I thought he’d slipped away for good.

Clem: By no means. Gil would never leave us in the lurch.

Shemp: He’s left us in the lurch several times. What about the Lunatic Goofballs broadcast, when he went out for a beer and never returned?

Clem: Well, that was a little different.

Shemp: I hope you know, I’m going to put all my weight as Dean of Lemmitanian sports into getting the two of you canned before the next World Cup.

Clem: You do realize that’s an honorary title, Shemp.

Shemp: Why I oughta--! Of course I know it’s an honorary title. It’s a title that the Lemmitanian Sportwriters’ Association bestowed on me for the many years of work I’ve done calling sporting events in Lemmitania and around the world. It’s in recognition of my talent and integrity—two words you and Lemson seem to know nothing about.

Clem: Ouch, Shemp. I might remind you we’ve been anchoring LTV’s Monday Night Rugby for four years.

Shemp: A job that could apparently be performed by talking monkeys.

Clem: Well, I’ve never heard a talking monkey call a rugby match. But I imagine it’d be awesome.

Shemp: You would think that.

Clem: Who wouldn’t?—Gil, old buddy! Nice to see you.

Shemp: Oh great.

Clem: So, it’s all taken care of?

Gil: Yes yes yes. Okay then, Shemp, let’s ‘ave at it. The sooner we’re done the sooner we can leave.

Shemp: What are you in such a hurry about?

Gil: ‘oo said I’m in a ‘urry?

Shemp: You’re all disheveled, like you’ve been running. And you just said, “the sooner we’re done, the sooner we can leave.”

Gil: I meant that metaphorically.

Clem: Lemme see my thingy.

Shemp: What thingy?

Gil: ‘e was talkin’ to me, Shemp.

Shemp: Is that a boarding pass?

Clem: No. Why would I need one of those?

Gil: There’s faster ways of gettin’ through the airport if you know the system, Shemp.

Clem: Oh, good. So you actually got it done right.

Gil: Wotta you think? If there’s one thing I’m good at, it’s getting’ the ‘ell out o’ Dodge.

Shemp: What’s this about getting the hell out of Dodge?

Clem: He was speaking metaphorically.

Gil: So ‘ow ‘bout that game? I ‘eard it on the radio while I was— not ‘ere. Sounded like a pretty exciting ending, wot?

Shemp: Sudden death penalty kicks. You don’t see that too often.

Gil: I don’t see any football too often.

Shemp: Maybe that’s because you don’t stay in the booth the whole game. Where have you been, anyway?

Clem: So, I understand Mel Flanders made it official last night. Said he’s retiring from football after the tournament.

Gil: Meanin’ now.

Clem: Righty.

Gil: I’ll miss ol’ Mel.

Clem: He had a great run. Started every one of the Lemmings’ matches these past two World Cups. They’ll have to work fast to find a replacement

Shemp: Not so fast. The World Cup only comes once every four years.

Gil: I thank me lucky starts for that each night before I close me eyes.

Clem: What was that sound?

Shemp: What sound?

Gil: Don’t get so jumpy. It’ll tip ‘em off.

Shemp: Tip who off?

Gil: Uh… our listeners.

Shemp: Tip them off about what?

Clem: Never you mind. So, I understand the LWSC’s talking about maybe having some women on the team next time around.

Shemp: For our international listeners, that’s the Lemmitanian Women’s Sporting Coalition. For those who aren’t aware, rugby is considered Lemmitania’s national sport, but it’s exclusively male at the pro level. The second-biggest sport in Lemmitania is women’s basketball. And the LWSC has been floating the idea of bringing some hoop stars onto the team.

Clem: Not a bad idea. It’s a game that takes a lot of stamina.

Gil: You know wot I like about basketball? You can use your ‘ands.

Clem: In fact, you’re required to.

Gil: It’s true.

Clem: You might even say basketball is exactly the opposite of football, in that the only part of your body that’s allowed to touch the ball is your hands. Kick a basketball, and you lose possession.

Gil: Plus in basketball there’s a lot of scorin’. And it’s excitin’. Unlike some sports I could mention.

Clem: What about that shootout we just witnessed?

Gil: You witnessed. I was—

Clem: Mike, do me a favor and just keep a lookout, would you? Yeah, out in the hallway.

Shemp: What’s he looking out for?

Gil: Of course, I’d most likely say that ‘andball is the sport most exac’ly opposite to football.

Clem: Anatomically speaking.

Shemp: What? Mike, could you repeat that?

Gil: Wot ‘e said was “cheese it.” So signing off from lurvley Brazillico, this is Gil Lemson saying, good day an’ ‘ope I make it to the airport a’ead of the you-know-wots.

Clem: Likewise.

Shemp: Where the hell are you going? Mike, where are they going? Oh, don’t you start with denying all knowledge—fine. Fine. You know what? I’ve had it. For the Lemmitanian Radio Network, this is Shemp Wooley signing off.

16-06-2003, 20:09

After a stunning win, when a sudden death penalty shootout went to the wire with a 7-6 edge in favour of Brazillico, manager Emilio Curtiba is trying to get his players ready for the game against Dennisov. He had the following to say about the opposing team.

"Dennisov is a very unconventional team. They forecheck aggresively and their goalie gets in the butterfly very well. You would think a style like that would flop in the World Cup, but he's found a way to make it work for him. If we want to win, we'll have to find a way to beat their trap, win the battles on the perimeter of the pitch and exploit their sometimes rough play in front of net to get penalties in our favor."

No host has ever won the World Cup, in fact, no host had ever made it to the quarter-finals before this year. Brazillico will be trying to change all that when they play against Dennisov tomorrow.

16-06-2003, 20:34

On the eve of the semi-finals, the Brazillican press took the time to unveil their All-World Cup team, which looks like this:

Goalkeeper-Bi Kikere(Tanah Burung)
Defense-Zenghi (Rhaken Kull)
Defense-Realm (Ariddia)
Defense-Leetch(Dennisov)
Defense-Morris (Dennisov)
Midfield-De La Rocha (Audioslavia)
Midfield-Greenman (Lunatic Goofballs)
Midfield-Hoopai (Spaam) <edit: After Spaam declared Byshai's incompetance>
Midfield-De Jesus (Brazillico)
Attacker-Henneson (Lemmitania)
Attacker-Urk (Giant Zucchini)

When asked why Steel Shadows or Jurassica, two teams in the semi-finals had no players on the team, the writers shrugged it off, stating that no players from those teams "made a name for themselves" in this competition.

Spaam

16-06-2003, 20:59

Firstly, Byshai is forward. Secondly, why Byshai? Why not Saavedra or Widjaja, my star forwards? Or Hoopai, an extremely talented young midfielder? Or Nevvytt who can really play anywhere he damn well wants ;) Or even Ajani our best Defender, or Truun our Keeper?

Just wondering :)

Giant Zucchini

17-06-2003, 02:39

NEWSFLASH:

Urk has been named as the All-World Cup team's striker. This is indeed a joy for all Zucchinis. Head Coach Mr. Hurr, "I am glad and honoured that Urk has landed himself in a place in which he truly deserves to be in. He is truly a top quality striker and his position in the team is without doubt. Even though our equally brilliant, if a tad understated, goalkeeper Oog did not make the team, I am still happy for Urk, and he truly deserves it."

17-06-2003, 04:11

Well, somehow this World Cup seems to have passed us by, Theo.

'Fraid so Basil - Unfortunately it seems that His Imperial Majesty the Basileus Alasdair I Frosticus has been a little busy recently, and the attention of the Dreaming Monks has been focused elsewhere.

Pity about that. But top marks to Brazillico for organising this tournament - why this one seems to have been more popular than any of the predecessors! Do you think we'll be involved in future tournaments?

Not sure, Basil. That depends on His Majesty. I know he's going to be preoccupied for the next couple of months with the book he's finishing - but I wouldn't discount the possibility that we'll be able to participate again at some point.

Dennisov

17-06-2003, 13:06

The starting eleven for the semi final game against Brazillico has just been revealed:

G: Tretchak
D: Leetch
Morris
McCabe
Chelios
M: Neely
Lemieux
LaFontaine
Bossy
F: Gretzky
Howe

What do you think of Bossy's selection, Mike?
"A young player with masses of talent, always a threat, but not great in defense. Actually the whole team seems to be focussed on the attack with Lemieux, Neely and Bossy all playing."

Naive you think for a semi final?
"If you end up with more goals than the opposition it will be fine, but this will put a lot of pressure on McCabe and especially on Tretchak"

A high scoring game then?
"Not likely at these stages, but the team as it stands now does seem to reflect a very forward playing tactic. Although risky, it has brought Dennisov to the semi final this year, and I suppose the manager didn't want to risk a change in tactics.

A prediction please?
Difficult, very difficult, on talent and offensive and defensive capabilities both teams are matched I think. Experience is on Brazillico's side, and so will the crowd. Stamina? I don't see why Dennisov would be any less than Brazillico. As I said, predictions, are very difficult, but all things considered I do give a slight edge to Brazillico, but only just. A 3-2 victory for Brazillico."

Going for the underdog position then?
"Last game we weren't favourites, against Haraki we were. This time we aren't, there is so much experience and talent on the other side."

Thank you very much for your comments.
"No problem, you are very welcome."

18-06-2003, 01:01

((Hmm. No response from Jurassica...))

*After the end of one of the dirtiest 90 minutes of play in recent memory, the Goofballs stood defeated 2-1. Many people expected some harsh criticism from the Goofballs at the press conference after the game, but they were surprisingly civil. Saying about the 'accidental' kick to Barry Greenman's groin that took him out of the game as; "An honest mistake. A ball's a ball."

As the coach spoke with the news reporters, nobody saw the other goofballs, so their whereabouts cannot be confirmed, but after several hours, when no members of team Jurassica came out to speak with the press, several entered the locker room to find the entire team stripped, and tied together in offensive positions. The Jurassicans had no comment.

Team Goofball is already in the process of checking out of their hotel, but negotiations over the hotel bill, and remodeling costs are still in the early stages...*

Giant Zucchini

18-06-2003, 03:19

NEWSFLASH:

Giant Zucchini has lost to Steel Shadows in the quarter-finals of the World Cup. After a tight 90 minutes where no goals were scored, both teams went into the golden goal, where Steel Shadows managed to get one beyond the reach of Oog, upsetting the top seed out of the competition. Head Coach Mr. Hurr could not be reached for comment.

Ravenspire

18-06-2003, 07:53

OOC: Also, it'd be nice to get a statement from the Ravenspire team :P

OOC: My apologies; there was a death in the family recently, so I haven't been around. I think it's a bit too late to comment now, but I wanted to say you did an excellent job with the match report. Three posts, too.

Ironic that the first loss would be the only one, though. Bet I still have the best defense in the cup. Ah, well, at least I should be 17th or 18th for the next Cup...

Thanks again.

Audioslavia

18-06-2003, 09:06

out of all my starting eleven you managed to pick the player that got sent off, effectively knocking us out of the world cup... and who runs about with a really angry look on his face.

and who is called "Mad Zack" (in some parts of the world)

meh, fairy nuff

Dennisov

18-06-2003, 09:45

Dennisov, having ridden their luck and been just a minute of normal time away from a tame defeat against Brazillico, completed a remarkable comeback to become the first team to make it to this year's World Cup Final.

But, as Manchester United will tell you, never discount a pair of substitutes even when you are 1-0 down deep into injury-time.

For the supposedly impregnable defence which had carried Brazillico to the semi-final collapsed twice. It conceded a 90th minute equaliser to Jari Kurri, who had come on to replace Cam Neely.

And it then folded a second time 13 seconds later when Marcel Dionne, a 75th-minute replacement when the game was slipping away, smashed a shot into the top corner from a cross by Bryan Trottier, the third Dennisov replacement.

And with this 'golden' goal having therefore secured their place and all this on foreign soil against the host nation - the Dennisov players embarked on celebrations of relief as much as joy, with coach Roger Neilson earning considerable credit for his three substitutions.

For having taken a 35th-minute lead through A.Hernandez' brilliant solo effort on 35 minutes, Brazillico looked to have the game sewn up as they soaked up Dennisov's pressure.

Whereas it had been Svecia who failed to produce anything like their true potential in the previous Worldcups, this time it had been Dennisov who were being contained all too easily until those dramatic last few minutes.

Then again, for any neutrals, a Brazillico victory was a deserved outcome given the attacking endeavour which they have brought to a tournament compared to Dennisov's dependency upon defensive resolve.

For Dennisov have relied on their superb back five en route to the final, with just some outstanding defending and goalkeeping in their previous games and a supreme rearguard action against Spaam.

Dennisov, meanwhile, reverted to the line-up which produced probably their best display so far in their quarter-final win against Spaam, with Mike Bossy and Cam Neely for a more attacking approach.

The game still needed an early Brazillico goal to enliven proceedings though and to draw the cautious Dennisov players out but it never came in what turned out to be an instantly-forgettable first-half.

Indeed, they had taken the lead after 35 minutes as McGarnicle provided the immediate inspiration by twisting and turning before picking out defender Sequoia on the overlap.
When Chris Chelios failed to cut out his cross, A.Hernandez, who was apparently set to move abroad last summer only for his wife to turn down the chance to live in another nation, was there to volley the ball home from close range.

Even if their early promise was never fulfilled, Brazillico did at least start brightly as Mcgarnicle - winning only his sixth cap up front in an apparently inspired move by the coach - volleyed over at full-stretch and team-mate Marcos headed wide.

At this stage, A.Hernandez and Macgarnicle were being allowed too much space, while Dennisov were being hustled out of their stride in midfield, where Gordie Howe had little, if any, influence due to the tireless covering of Luis and Marcos.

And while Wayne Gretzky did hit the post with a snap-shot from a tight angle, the game soon dissolved into a midfield battle of wills with neither side threatening to take command and free-kicks disrupting any chance of a flowing encounter.

It was the sort of game to delight a defensive sophisticate but for neutrals of a rather more attacking inclination, it was a heavy-going version of a human chess match as Brazillico were all too predictable, with their attacks being picked off one by one by the Dennisov defenders.

In a rare flowing move on 38 minutes, Lopez' low shot was well saved by Dennisov's Vladimir Tretchak, while A.Hernandez and Mike Bossy also threatened, but the luckiest man on the pitch was Brian Leetch, who directed an elbow into De Jesus' face which went unpunished.

Mario Lemieux emerged after the interval with a clear determination to make more of an impact and only just failed to slide in to reach Mike Bossy's cross-shot and Brazillico responded in kind with Suarez replacing De Jesus after 52 minutes.

As Dennisov pushed forward, Brazillico almost caught them on the counter-attack, as McGarnicle played through Suarez only for him to roll his shot past the far post.

Dennisov full-back Chris Morris was himself then clear as the match burst into life but his shot was saved by McMario with his legs, a feat which the keeper then repeated from Wayne Gretzky.

It was almost total Dennisov pressure by this stage, yet Brazillico are adept at coping with that, having done so succesfully in their quarter-final against Lemmitania.

And it was actually Brazillico who had the best chances on the counter-attack as McGarnicle struck the side-netting and A.Hernandez was denied by Tretchak's spread-eagled body.

Hope was running out for the underdogs as three minutes of injury-time went by but then the Brazillico defence fell apart and allowed Jari Kurri to run through.

The midfielder buried his shot underneath the body of McMario to allow for a nailbiting last few seconds.
And if that was not amazing enough, Dennisov then completed their Manchester United-like comeback 13 seconds later when Trottier crossed low from the left and Dionne buried his volley into the roof of the net.
The players of Brazillico were left devastated as the Dennisov celebrations continued.

Spaam

18-06-2003, 12:25

OOC: Thats ok Ravenspire. I was just suprised that I had actually beaten a team that was ranked higher than me. Still, getting into the quarter finals only having done that once, not a bad effort ;)

The unveiling of the All-World Cup team came at the same time as Lehua Hoopai received the award for Football Rookie Of The Year. This comes as a fantastic time for both Lehua, and Womens Sport in Spaam, which is increasing in popularity at an incredible pace, and has been for the last 10 years. Lehua was not the first woman in a World Cup team, however, has proven to be the most popular. We await to see how she does next World Cup and to see if there is an increase in female representation.

OOC: And well done Dennisov. Only the finalist could possibly beat us ;)

The Imperial Navy

18-06-2003, 12:44

*is still upset he lost* :cry:

Ariddia

18-06-2003, 14:01

Back home in Ariddia, player Tina Realm had the pleasant surprise of learning that she'd been voted one of the Cup's best defence players, along with Rhaken Kull's Zhengi and Dennisov's Leetch and Morris.

"I'm... I'm flattered," she told reporters, blushing. "I had no idea. Umm, I'll just have to... make sure I keep deserving it... and, umm, play my best in friendlies and the next World Cup, if we're in it."

"And now, if you'll excuse us, we're going to throw a party for Tina here," fellow player Nat Guildenstern put in with a grin. "Before we get back to training."

Tanah Burung

18-06-2003, 16:05

Wow Dennisov, is your whole team hockey players? :wink:

In a sentimental moment after being named top goalkeeper at the Cup, Bi Kikere has announced her retirement and applied for permament residency status in Brazillico. "It's nice here," she said. "I want to stay. And I'm available for endorsement contracts."

Jurassica

19-06-2003, 00:28

(OOC: Sorry about the complete lack of coverage by Jurassica, unfortunately my football knowledge is limited)

World Cup IV: The Final Path

Arthur Etee: Welcome to World Cup IV: The Final Path. Tonight we will look at the astounding success of Jurassica from qualifying to the Final. We will witness the team that went from zeros to National Heroes here in Jurassica.

In the run up to the final with Dennisov, we will review the team who will play for the cup, and we will review the performance of the Jurassican team thoughout this World Cup.

[Opening titles, including montage of film footage from the previous games.]

Arthur: Joining me in the studio is Predominance FC manager, and Jurassica’s greatest ever football player, Nick Sheridan, and football pundit, James Dent. Gentlemen, who would have thought that we would be sitting here today discussing Jurassica’s Cup Final? How did we go from failing to qualify in WC3 to playing in the Final of WC4?

James: To be honest with you, Arthur, I have absolutely no idea. Jurassica was hardly the best team out there in this competition. If the country wasn’t atheist, I would say it was an act of God.

Nick: I have to agree with James, I can’t see how Jurassica managed to turn itself around like this. I’m sure there are nations out there that are asking themselves the same thing. But we’re here, and that’s all that matters.

Arthur: What are the chances of Jurassica lifting the Cup?

Nick: Realistically you would have to say slim to non-existent. Dennisov is a very experienced team. I know I’m glad not to have to face them on the field. But stranger things have happened, so we’ll just have to wait for the day.

James: If Jurassica’s luck, and I mean luck, holds out, they have a chance, but I feel its going to be Dennisov’s victory. I am sure our boys will put up a good fight, and hopefully make it an exciting finish.

Arthur: Lets look at the Jurassican line up for the final.

[Screen fills with computer generated list of players:

Goal Ralf Ziel
Def Ian Bastion
Def Hans Verteidigung
Def Carlos Defiesa
Def Stephen Bulwark
Mid Gary Fenton
Mid Michael Hesse
Mid Ben Green
Mid Fabien Milieu
For Edmond Anfriff
For Juan Delantero]

Arthur: Coach Ivor Problem is starting with the same team that played in the first Jurassican match at the beginning of this competition.

Nick: I believe that is a wise choice. The team have played well together, and it seems that Coach Problem is hoping for a little of the luck from the start of the competition to be carried forward with this line up.

James: The players should just go out there and enjoy themselves. This will probably be the first and last time that they make it to the final.

Arthur: Well, it isn’t long to go now, until this World Cup draws to a close. The day of the Final has been declared a National holiday in Jurassica by Empress Tyrannica. We’ll see you all then.

[Further montage of Jurassican team as end credits role.]

19-06-2003, 20:48

The final results have been sent out!

OOC: Sorry for my lack of coverage on my recent games, but I've been insanely busy.

The World Cup 4 winner will be known very shortly and I guess I can now pass it on to Tanah Burung and give him the green light to start WC5.

I'd like to thank everyone who participated, I can't remember a cup where we had so many teams actively participated in RPs.

20-06-2003, 02:45

After a heartbreaking last-second loss to Dennisov in the semi-final, Brazillico took the field against Steel Shadows at Corsa Paso to try to salvage a bronze medal.

Brazillico came out firing in the early going, when Hernandez broke free from his defender and scored in the 12th Minute, propelling Brazillico to a 1-0 lead.

That tempo continued, as Suarez, starting for the injured Lopez made a great run in the 26th Minute followed by an even better finish to make the Brazillico lead two.

Before the end of the half, the Steel Shadows defense settled down and returned to the form that saw them reach the semi-finals, but the damage had already been done.

With the sweet taste of victory in the mouths of the Brazillicans, the Steel Shadows player gets the ball in the 84th Minute and beats the keeper cleanly, bringing the scoreline back to 2-1.

However, it was too little too late, as Brazillico capped off their best performance ever in the World Cup, beating Steel Shadows 2-1 and capturing the bronze medal.

The Brazillican faithful can only hope for better things to come as this team packed with youth gains experience and steamrolls into the next World Cup, now knowing they've firmly solidified their place amongst the world's elite.

20-06-2003, 07:00

(A local news broadcast in Emrak, Caras Sidh)

Casey: World Cup action is heating up! And even though the Wings have been out of the running since their loss to Ariddia, record numbers of people are tuned in to watch the game via satellite. We have Vatassor Chiefs forward Aranya Gwilleth, who played as forward for the Wings, here in the studio tonight. Thanks for joining us, Aranya.

Gwilleth: Thanks for having me, Dante.

Casey: Tell us the truth, Aranya, are you disappointed that you didn't make the All World Cup team?

Gwilleth: Disappointed? Oh no way. We played in our first ever World Cup this year, and went up against some incredible opponents.

Casey: So are you saying you were a little fish in a big pond?

Gwilleth: *chuckles*

Casey: No, I know, you're on the Grainy-Os box, I can't say "small fish" accurately. But you're not upset by the results of the matches?

http://carassidh.homestead.com/files/grainyos.jpg

Gwilleth: Definitely not. No, only makes me more eager for World Cup Five.

Casey: Any word on Buonorotti's condition? We heard of course about his hip fracture in that game with One Red Dot, and we knew he was out of the World Cup anyway.

Gwilleth: Yeah, Tony took a bad fall and it's going to be a while before it heals up. I mean, I'm not a doctor or a coach, hell I don't even play in the same league as him during the season, so really I can't say what next season's going to be like for him.

Casey: Well I see it's time to go to a break. We'll be back to take your calls about soccer with Aranya Gwilleth, and then talk about the start of CSBA Baseball's eleventh season, right after we pay some bills. Stay with us. This is Sports Saturday, on News Channel 4.

Cue music.

20-06-2003, 07:14

Casey: We're back and it's Sports Saturday. I'm Dante Casey and with me is Aranya Gwilleth. So, Aranya, who are you liking in the final matchup?

Gwilleth: Oh, wow. Well honestly I thought it was going to be Brazillico, they've just played with so much--um--guts, heart and soul, Dante, that I thought they were all over it. It's good to see they got the bronze, anyway, they deserved at least as much.

Um, tell you the truth, I really don't know who's going to win this one. Jurassica's kind of a Cinderella story, a sentimental favorite y'know, but boy that Dennisov team's really something to see too. I think it's anyone's match really.

Casey: Well I guess we'll be finding out soon enough.

Gwilleth: Yeah I guess you're right.

Casey: (putting his hand to his ear-piece) Oh, speaking of, I'm getting word now that we're just about to go live via Satellite to Brazillico. Sorry to cut this so short, Aranya, it's been a pleasure having you here.

Gwilleth: Pleasure's mine, Dante. I can't think of anything I'd rather be bumped by than the big game!

Casey: So in just a moment we'll be hooked up to the signal here...

Dennisov

20-06-2003, 09:28

LIVE FROM THE SAN CHAVEZ INTERNATIONAL STADIUM IN BRAZILLICO
it is
the World Cup final between

Jurassica and Dennisov

Welcome to this year's final, Brazillico just won 3rd place, but it is time for the two best teams to face off and determine this year's winner.

Jurassica, the team which came out on top after the qualification rounds, seeded 35th at the start.
Dennisov, a team with a very long luck streak at the moment, seeded 43rd at the start and a good defensive team.

Let's show you how these teams got to the most important game of the tournament.

Both teams had to go through the qualification rounds, as I already mentioned, Jurassica was voted the best team after those first 6 games, with four victories, Pumpkinia, Altamira, The Amused and Vegimite.
The did not lose a single game as the other two games against Oglethorpia and Alasdair I Frosticus ended in draws, 3-3 and 1-1 respectively.
Dennisov had more trouble qualifying, they only won twice, against Proxy and Pablicosta, lost twice, against Gesamtkuntwerk and Al Quds, and drew twice against Moyk and The Imperial Navy.

The next round saw both Dennisov and Jurassica win their groups, especially Dennisov was impressive during those stages, not losing a single game and with victories over Shinjo Vicu and Steel Shadows. Jurassica also won their group with victories over Europa Brittania and Kingsford.

The two finalists then faced Haraki and Total n Utter Insanity, Dennisov needing a golden goal to get passed Haraki, Jurassica had some luck with a deflection to defeat their opponents 2-1.

The 2-1 victories were once more the results of their quarter final games, Dennisov beat Spaam 2-1 and Lunatic Goofballs also lost with that final score.

Semi final games are always close, not necessarily in the scoreline, but even those were close in this year's World Cup, all four teams could have made it, but Brazillico and Steel Shadows were the unfortunate ones, which leaves us with:

Jurassica v Dennisov

We'll be right back with complete coverage of the game, don't touch that dial folks!

Dennisov

20-06-2003, 10:22

Hello folks, with just minutes before the kick-off let us see the line-ups of Jurassica and Dennisov.

Let's start with Jurassica

in goal, Ralf Ziel

the defenders: Ian Bastion, Hans Verteidigung, Carlos Defiesa and Stephan Bulwark. Those players sure sound...defensive.
Midfield: Gary Fenton, Michael Hesse, Ben Green and Fabien Milieu.
and up front they will start with Edmond Afriff and Juan Delantro. A 4-4-2 formation if I am not mistaken.

Now to our team,
our goalie, as he has been throughout the tournament: Vladimir Tretchak.
The back four this game,
Bryan McCabe, getting a vote of confidence I personally think.
The two All-Stars, Brian Leetch and Chris Morris, and the last one Chris Chelios.
In midfield we see a slight change, a more defensive start to this game with Mike Bossy and Mario Lemieux but this time accompanied by Bryan Trottier and Bobby Orr, who is really more a defender, I think Neilson is trying to secure his defense.
Up front, another change, Wayne Gretzky still present, but Marcel Dionne, who made his presence felt to Brazillico will be his friend up front.

The national anthems are about to be played, I will keep quiet, this is going to be a good one folks.

Dennisov

20-06-2003, 12:31

Leetch finds perfect time to finally find net.
By Paul Oberjurge
Dennisov News Service

In 37 appearances with the Dennisov national team, defender Brian Leetch had done everything but score.
He made up for that, twice over, as Dennisov rallied defeat Jurassica 2-1 to become the new World Champions.

Leetch's hustle and marksmanship accounted for both Dennisov goals, one in the 47th minute and the game-winner in the 69th before 72,000 spectators at the San Chavez International Stadium.
"That's an excellent reward for all the effort he's put in, particularly the mental discipline he's brought to the team," coach Roger Neilson said. "He's having a great World Cup."
Leetch was carried around the field by teammates., and his name was chanted by the large number of Dennisov supporters. "Now we can say we are best team in the world," Neilson said. "It has been a wonderful festival of soccer."
Both Dennisov and Jurassica are confirmed for the next World Cup.

Leetch's first goal came one minute after Juan Delantro gave upstart Jurassica a seemingly significant 1-0 lead; However, replays of Delantro’s goal were barely finished when Dennisov and Leetch struck back.
Jurassica captain Edmond Anfriff won the ball at the top of the box at Jurassica’s defensive end. Leetch, a full back who had made a long run forward, didn't give up on the play, coming behind the dawdling Anfriff and knocking the ball loose.
It went to midfielder Mike Bossy at the top of the circle, and he pushed it right back to Leetch as he angled toward the goal. The sliding shot from 15 yards went into the left side of the net as goalkeeper Ralf Ziel unsuccessfully charged off his line.
Dennisov fans, stunned moments before by Jurassica's goal, erupted. Delantro fell to his knees in disbelief that a hard-won advantage was gone so quickly.

In the 70th minute, Leetch again had gone forward when a ball ricocheted off a cluster of players and back to him near the corner of the box. He and defender Carlos Defiesa battled for possession, and the ball popped to the left, where Leetch ran it down just outside the box.
A player who makes his living keeping other players from scoring knew exactly what to do. Leetch struck the ball sharply with his left foot, past the diving Ziel and just inside the far post, and Dennisov were the new World Cup winners for the first time in their short history.
"He saved us today," Dennisov captain Mario Lemieux said. "He was extraordinary as always.
"We thought Dennisov's strength was failing," Jurassica coach Ivor Problem said. "We got our goal, but as so often happens in soccer they got one right back and that seemed to give them the strength to go on. The turning point was when he (Delantro) lost concentration for two fatal seconds. We weren't attentive enough."

Leetch's mother is from the island of Tropiko, making him part of the immigrant wave that has transformed Dennisov football. In four previous matches, he distinguished himself as a tenacious defender and efficient ball-handler. He plays sweeper for Mozarella, but Neilson used him in the center of his defense.

Dennisov's victory was witnessed by president Stefani Tescos and Empress Tyrannica, who were among the capacity crowd at the gleaming, $433 million San Chavez International Stadium.
Dennisov played the final 16 minutes without McCabe, sent off by referee Jose-Manuel Garcia Aranda (Brazillico) for elbowing/slapping Fabien Milieu. Whether he will be suspended for next year’s World Championship is unclear.
"He didn't have the right to send someone off for such a pathetic foul," Lemieux said.
Jurassica, playing a wonderful World Cup, was a surprise semifinalist. The nation did not exist until 2003 (neither did Dennisov). About 5,000 Jurassica supporters, made the trip to the Brazillico venue for the match.
"The Dennisov victory was deserved, their championship is deserved," Problem said. "But nonetheless I think we could have been there ourselves."

Final
Dennisov 2, Jurassica 1
at San Chavez International Stadium

Dennisov: Vladimir Tretchak, Bryan McCabe, Chris Morris, Chris Chelios, Brian Leetch, Bobby Orr (Alex Delvecchio 76), Mario Lemieux, Mike Bossy, Bryan Trottier, Marcel Dionne, Wayne Gretzky (Denis Potvin 69).

Jurassica: Ralf Ziel, Ian Bastion, Hans Verteidigung, Carlos Defiesa, Stephan Bulwark, Gary Fenton, Michael Hesse, Ben Green, Fabien Milieu, Edmond Afriff, Juan Delantro.

Goals: Jurassica - Delantro 46. Dennisov - Leetch 47, 70.
Shots at goal: Dennisov 10 Jurassica 10.
Shots on goal:Dennisov 8 Jurassica 5.
Corner kicks: Dennisov 7, Jurassica 6.
Fouls: Dennisov 18, Jurassica 20.
Offsides: Dennisov 1, Jurassica 3.
Yellow cautionary cards: Jurassica – Carlos Defiesa 45, Gary Fenton 73, Ben Green 90.
Red ejection card: Dennisov – Bryan McCabe 74.
Referee: Jose-Manuel Garcia Aranda (Brazillico).
Attendance: 72,000 (estimated).

NationStates Jolt Archive

World Cup 4 - Page 2