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| Posted by: Sarzonia Feb 7 2006, 04:10 PM |
| Stars off on right foot, 3-0 by Ryan Calvin Woodstock Daily Mail Staff Writer A dramatic turn of events led former Stars and Hypocria national team coach Dave Wilson back to the fold as Sarzonia's national team coach. The controversy that led the Incorporated Football Federation to be placed in government receivership saw the resignation of coach Barry Owens after former IFF chairman Terry Mangione fired him and the move was rescinded by Sarzonian Vice President for Health and Athletics Jimmy Marshall. While Wilson is listed as the head coach, the man calling the shots on the sidelines will likely be the man who led his team to an unlikely finals appearance: Forty year old coaching wunderkind Brett Hancock's team struggled through the groups stage, winning one and drawing four of the five matches in Group 2 before playing some of its best football of the tournament leading up to the 1:2 loss after extra time. "Brett was a major reason this Stars team did as well as it did last time," Wilson said. "He got that team ready to play against us and really put in a great effort. We were fortunate to earn the result in that match. Sarzonia were an excellent team." The team said they would name forward Kyle Mason their captain after Ettore Salivani's "unfortunate display" against Starblaydia in a 2-2 result remarkable more for the hostility between the teams than for the quality of football. Saliveri said he was "done" as a national team captain, though he would still be looked on as a leader. "He's going to be influential," Hancock said. "He's a scrapper. He's still going to be the role model for what we hope the Stars are going to be as a group. You could do much worse than to have a team of 11 Ettore Salivanis." For the Stars to return to the championship match and hoist a AOCAF trophy for the first time in their history, Wilson said they will have to be more consistent and follow Hancock's instructions "to the letter. "The devil is in the details," Wilson said. "Brett and I will be working closely together throughout AOCAF and the World Cup finals. I may be the coach according to record, but in a sense, I'll be assisting Brett with this team while he helps me out with the senior team. Hopefully, we'll find a way to make this work." If the first match were any indication, they got that off to an impressive start after Sarzonia put the finishing touches to a 3:0 win over Hiiraan. Forward Brian Williams (Partisan Drissa, Hypocria) scored two goals and Mason notched a 85th minute penalty that seemed to douse the spirit of the Hiiraanese players after a valiant effort came up short. "We have to make sure we execute this well consistently," Hancock said. |
| Posted by: Pacitalia Feb 7 2006, 07:47 PM |
| Starblaydis left shaking their heads in draw Pacitalia's senior squad shows surprising good form Pacitalian football fans were not expecting the greatest of finishes, especially having the nation's first-ever AOCAF match against powerhouse Starblaydia, but a 2-0 Starblaydi lead ended up erased at full time as the Pacitalian national squad came into the second half refreshed by the encouraging words of manager Lindifeu Zentrescu. "He just told us, 'Nobody is expecting you to win, so go out there and shock them'," captain Veranace d'Amantano said. "He told us to make a game of it in the very least." That they did, as d'Amantano pocketed a superb goal in the 67th minute and saw it followed up by the equaliser, a Simone Perrotta header off a corner kick ten minutes later. The Blue Foxes held on for the 2-2 draw to the chagrin of their Starblaydi opponents. The national squad sits tied with the Starblaydis, mid-table in Group B, with one point. The Pacitalians looked sluggish and nervous in the first twenty minutes, making costly mistakes that allowed Zhorin Tumunzahar through for the deadlock-breaking first goal of the match. The Starblaydis continued their ferocious onslaught on the Blue Fox defence, breaking through a second time with Lazaro Rivera in the 40th minute on a solid give-and-go that put the "purple, gold and white" ahead in what looked to be a commanding lead. But it was apparently not so, for the Pacitalians returned from halftime with visible determination. Their efforts paid off, as Andreos Charisteas redirected a Mario Camoranesi pass, feeding Veranace d'Amantano, who, seconds later, lifted it past the shoulder of a charging Starblaydi keeper, Nicholas Mathias and into the top right corner of the net. The mostly-Starblaydi crowd fell silent while a substantial contingent of Pacitalian fans went absolutely wild at the thought of Pacitalia's first-ever AOCAF goal coming against an opponent widely tipped to search and destroy the Blue Foxes. Then, ten minutes later, charging forward Ambrosino Giurimano was nearly awarded a penalty shot after a rather cheap tackle by a Franciso Ibanez. The incident happened literally centimetres outside the 22-yard box and had to be reviewed in video replay to decide whether or not to award a penalty shot. The video replay showed the incident occurred outside the box and the referee awarded Giurimano a free kick in a very dangerous position. However, the Starblaydi goalkeeper pushed it away to the right and the Pacitalians ended up with a corner kick. Angio Fradelli curved the ball right into the six-yard box where Simone Perrotta dived forward and knocked the pass right into the heart of the net, past a scrambling Mathias who was expecting the ball to move further than it did. Starblaydi protests forced another review of the play when a defender claimed Perrotta had pulled a Maradona, handballing the ball into the net. However, from a behind-goal angle, this was disproved and the goal stood, to the chagrin of the Starblaydi team and fans. The Federazione di Futaboli Pacitaliana (FdFP) calls the result "more than favourable". "We are definitely pleased with the result and the effort on the part of our squad," Vice President of AOCAF Operations Mauro Maganofora said post-match. "We expect a tournament that will have tough opponents but an overall good result for our first try. Everyone knows we have the talent, but other teams have talent too. Zentrescu simply needs to strategise how to overcome that." [Edited in some Starblaydi player names, as there was no Roster Thread up for you to find them before MD1 - Star] |
| Posted by: Andossa Se Mitrin Vega Feb 8 2006, 10:47 AM |
| Group B Starblaydia 2-2 Pacitalia Hypocria 2-0 Andossa Se Mitrin Vega Fmjphoenix 0-1 Nojika ASMV entered the AOCAF12 knowing that they had but a small chance to do anything. Just look at the group. Defendinding champs Hypocria, Starblaydia, Fmjphoenix, Nojika, and Pacitalia. Loks as if we might contend for the doormat title again. The opening match against Hypocria showed just that. Nobody on the ASMV squad did a freaking thing besides gather Hyppo Autographs. Hopefully they will show up in the next match. |
| Posted by: Krytenia Feb 8 2006, 01:58 PM |
| Flipping The Bird A less than thrilling, but functional start, for the Jacks of Krytenia as they defeated the somewhat avian Falcanian team by two to one. The Aces played the ball on the fllor well, negating the areal ability of the Falcons, and the three points put the national team two points clear of the field after just one game. Evan Baxter and Clark Eji'a scored the goals, and the Jacks will be looking forward to their next challenge. |
| Posted by: Hypocria Feb 8 2006, 02:23 PM |
| HFA Unveil New “Dream Team” At a press conference earlier today in Hypocrium Alex Scott, Hypocrian football's commander in chief, unveiled the three men who will hopefully lead Hypocria to sporting glory. There was no surprise when former Pylos Reavers coach Alex Santoro was revealed as the man who will succeed Dave Wilson as national coach. Santoro’s more defensive minded approach was seen as the answer to the national side’s problems after the World Cup qualification campaign revealed a string of frailties in the Hyppos back line. He also becomes the first native coach of the national side after Starblaydia’s Guylain N’Dumbu-Nsungu and Dave Wilson of Sarzonia. The Under-21 side is also under new management after George Burns was appointed as it’s new coach in succession to Boubacar Dragov of Crystilakere. Burns was the mastermind behind the success of little Kester Town in the Hyper League. Under his leadership the club was known nationwide for the quality of it’s youth setup. The controversial sale of Alex Rytter lead to his resignation at the beginning of last season but now he’ll be overseeing the development of the next crop of internationals. The most unexpected appointment was that of Zvonimir Roeder. In nine years in charge of Hypocrium City Roeder led the club to five domestic league titles, including winning the inaugural Hyper League. It was after that Hyper League victory that Roeder stepped down to take a sabbatical from football. Roeder has been confirmed in a newly created post, that of Director of Football Development. As such he will be responsible for overseeing, and hopefully improving, football’s infrastructure in the Autocracy, from the Hyper League down to the school league’s. Slaying the Sea Dragons A first match in charge is never easy but when it’s in a tournament where your side are the defending champions the expectation levels get cranked up to a whole new level. Drawn in a group alongside AOCAF juggernauts Starblaydia, the attacking flair of Fmjphoenix and hugely talented squads from Nojika, Andossa Se Mitrin Vega and newcomers Pacitalia it will certainly be a baptism of fire for the new man in charge. Santoro handed out debuts to three of his former Reavers’ charges and employed a defensive 4-5-1 formation in the opening game against Andossa Se Mitrin Vega. The defensive howlers of the World Cup qualifiers looked a thing of the past as the Hyppos produced a solid display to shut out the Sea Dragons. No one can doubt the talent of ASMV’s players but they seemed overawed by the occasion and goals from Ashley Deucher and Alex Rytter secured a fairly comfortable win. Hypocria 2 - 0 Andossa Se Mitrin Vega It was a good day all round for the champions as both Starblaydia and Fmjphoenix dropped points in games they were both expected to win. Nojika could well prove to be Group B’s dark horses after beating Fmjphoenix 1 - 0. Pacitalia made their AOCAF debut against former champions Starblaydia and were widely expected to crash and burn. Surprisingly (and hilariously) the Blue Foxes came from two goals down to finish 2 - 2. Which leaves the mighty Hyppos top of Group B at this early stage. |
| Posted by: Nedalia Feb 8 2006, 04:21 PM |
| Stop Takin' the Piss Upon hearing that a B squad Lions team managed rack up a 4-1 victory against Legalese in the latest edition of the AOCAF Championship, the response around Nedalia was pretty much the same: Get the f*** out. The original Lions squad, led by all the best players the country can dish out, have failed to impress even the slightest in the last few tournaments they have participated in. The B-Team, made up of unknowns who dont even play in the Premier League, managed to rack up Nedalia's most impressive victory in quite a long time span. Even more shocking is how they did it. The Lions starting lineup has barely changed the last few years, and each year they seem to sink to new lows, underachieving to degrees Nedalia could not imagine possible. A team that was supposed to be one of the most flamboyant and skillful in the region ended up being dry, boring, and unmotivated the last time we checked. In other words, the complete opposite of the team that went out and did the job against Legalese in Chicanada. Nostalgia of when the Lions burst on to the international scene came pouring back as fans watched their "amateur" side play with the heart that Nedalia was once known for, scoring goals that were the livlihood of the team. Goal scorers Abbas Tahhan (2), Jim Smith, and Samer Ezzeddine all stated the same thing: they did it for the pride of wearing the black lion on their chest. If only the likes of Tim James, Nene, Innit Smith, Trent Hardman and co. were there to learn a few things. Perhaps then could actually be disappointed when fans start calling the so called B-Squad "the Original Lions". |
| Posted by: Lamoni Feb 8 2006, 07:35 PM |
| Hawks lose 2-0 to The Allied Clans In the first match of AOCAF XII, the Hawks got off to a bad start with a 2-0 loss against The Allied Clans. Even better from the perspective of the clans was that their captain, Ryley Bloudin scored the two goals of the match at 35 and 40 minutes. We can only hope that this particular Hawks squad wakes up from the curious lethargy with which they played this match, or we could be looking at competing for the doormat prize. With the likes of Sarzonia, TLC, Nedalia, Legalese, and Hiiran in Group C, the doormat prize is a real possibility. Lamoni - 0 TLC - 2 Ryley Bloudin (35, 40) |
| Posted by: Sarzonia Feb 8 2006, 11:08 PM |
| Stars bag the Hawks 3-0 Just having Coach Dave Wilson returning to the fold in Sarzonia seems to be rubbing off on the second choice Stars team. After a 3-0 throttling of an overmatched Hiiraan side, the Stars faced a Lamoni Hawks side that played it to a 1-1 draw in last year's groups stage. With Wilson and Coach Brett Hancock watching closely, the Stars made sure Lamoni would offer no such drama, getting a hat trick from Brian Williams and an easy 3-0 win. "We don't normally start out this fast," assistant coach Brett Hancock said. "We didn't hit our stride until the knockout stages began last time out. This time we've gotten off to a strong start in the AOCAF. We're just playing our brand of football and we're really playing well as a team." The Stars (2-0-0) are behind Nedalia on goals scored as they defeated Hiiraan 3-0, driving the Hiiraanese into last place in Group C. The Lions have scored seven goals to Sarzonia's six, while the Stars have yet to concede. Both teams are level in points scored and goal difference (six each). The Stars face a reconstituted Legalese side whom Stars fans still remember defeated Sarzonia 5-2 during World Cup XVIII qualifying in a game henceforth known as The Shocker. "We're not thinking about that," Wilson said. "We're thinking about playing the match ahead of us and getting three points. That's all we're thinking about. We can't afford to obsess about what happened in the past. That's why it's in the past." Even with that disheartening loss in the past, the future looks bright for this team. Just don't tell Hancock. "One game at a time," he said. "We can't take it any other way." |
| Posted by: Nedalia Feb 9 2006, 04:54 AM |
| Shock! Horror! Lions Win Another One! Apparently this "B-Lions", as they have become known, don't know about the traditions of Nedalian international teams. They dont seem to comprehend they are actually supposed to be incosistent, hugely impressive in one game and turn around to be come hugely disappointing in the next. That lesson seemed to have been skipped. Led by unknown and obscure manager Frank Territs, the B-Lions continued their impressive form, defeating Hiiraan 3-0 after running past Legalese 4-1 in their opening game, leaving them with 6 points from 2 games. They have scored 7 goals and conceded 1, putting them top of the group, ahead of Sarzonia. Led by striker Abbas Nehmeh, who nailed in a fabulous hat-trick, the B-Lions looked sharp from the get-go, with the so-called "amateurs from Nedalia" playing more professional than the A-Squad Lions. Calls from all around the country are increasing, asking the NFA to bring back the superstar team and sack them all together, replacing with these players who have the hunger and grit, and most importantly, the pride that was one the lifeline of the Nedalian squad. Up next for the B-Lions is The Lowland Clans, who defeated Lamoni on Day 1, but lost to Legalese on Day 2. They have not shown any offensive consistency so far this tournament, but their defence has remained sharp and able to stop any attack. They remain a threat to any team that faces them, so the B-Lions have to come out ready to give it their all. This will be the 4th time Nedalia faces The Lowland Clans: they faced them twice during the World Cup 22 qualifiers (both losses for Nedalia), and once in the AOCAF 10, during the Group Stages. Nedalia came out on top, 1-0, thanks to a Mattan goal that game. They will be hoping for more of the same this time around. |
| Posted by: The Lowland Clans Feb 9 2006, 09:00 AM |
| GRAHAM CITY SUN - SPORTS SECTION B-Stars Open Campaign With Upset Victory, Loss CHINCANADA -- The B-Stars, coached by Westley Stjepan, opened up the AOCAF with a seriously surprising win over Lamoni, whose B-team hads been around for much longer and is by all accounts quite a bit better than the B-Stars. But what a performance put on by the B-Stars captain, Ryley Bloudin, the only B team member currently on the Stars national team. His skill with the ball has only deepened in his time with the national team and with Castle of Lisbon, his club team. He had two beautiful plays that simply showe dhis skill with the ball, dancing in from outside the box to blast the balls home. Illia Krosti also played a great game at center midfield, making several beautiful long balls to Bloudin and Truchiev, who got the start for Kevin Naign, whose sill feeling under the weather from the bout flu. The Markoff brothers also played an outstanding game, which helped hold Lamoni to only a few chances all game. Against the newly reformed nation of Legalese though, the B-Stars didn't play exactly their best game. Bloudin showed why he's still on the B-team with his inconsistent play throughout the match, and was pulled for Martinez, as the stars switched to the unfamiliar 4-5-1 formation. "I played a horrible game, and he was right to take me off," said Bloudin after the game. The Stars were in a moment of confusion about the system when Legalese scored their goal on a bad pass from Chuck Foster. The offense, minus their best player was unable to get the spark needed for the tie. Given the strange performance of this group, the group that was once thought closed is now wide open. If the B-Stars can continue their surprising start with a tie against Nedalia and a win at Hiiraan, the Stars could be looking at a third place finish. "I believe our squad can do it," said Stjepan confidently. |
| Posted by: Hypocria Feb 9 2006, 03:23 PM |
| Blue’s Out Foxed After victory over Andossa Se Mitrin Vega the Hyppos went into the second match hopeful of another three points against unranked opposition. Unfortunately this particular unranked side happened to be Pacitalia whose players were full of confidence after holding mighty Starblaydia to a draw on matchday 1. Alex Santoro’s side started slowly, struggling to get to grips with the Blue Foxes unorthodox formation. Unsurprisingly, considering the balance of play, the underdogs took the lead after just twelve minutes. Clearly our unfamiliarity with the “Retracted Forward” position was to blame as Andreos Charisteas burst unmarked into the penalty area and beat Kindelan with a coolly taken low drive. The Hyppos levelled the scores five minutes before the break thanks to a large slice of luck. Bercali won a freekick twenty five yards from the Pacitalian goal. The position favoured a left footer and fullback Ricky Poskas stepped up. He struck the ball hard and it took a wicked deflection off a player in the defensive wall to totally wrong foot Cristianu Raduvani and nestle in the back of the net. Halftime gave the coach the chance to use some choice words and the players emerged after the interval with real fire in their bellies. The Blue Foxes defended stoutly but their resistance was finally broken in the seventy eighth minute. Baxter played a beautifully weighted ball through to Deucher. The striker held the ball up before laying it off to the onrushing Rytter who drilled in his second goal in two games. Hypocria 2 - 1 Pacitalia Three more points keeps Hypocria on top of Group B. Starblaydia move into second place after overcoming Fmjphoenix by two goals to nil. And the Hypocrian media has seemingly put the kiss of death on Nojika. After describing the Nojikans as potential dark horses they promptly went and lost to Andossa Se Mitrin Vega. With Nojika up next hopefully that curse will last just a little longer. |
| Posted by: Lamoni Feb 9 2006, 06:20 PM |
| Hawks lose to Sarzonia So far in AOCAF XII, it looks like the Hawks squad has not even been there. We have yet to score a goal, we have yet to win a match; but at least we aren't in last place in the group. Hiiraan has the dubious honor. However that is the only good thing that can be said for this Hawks squad as they lost 3-0 to Sarzonia after forcing them to a 1-1 draw in the group stage in the last AOCAF. Brian Williams scored all three Sarzonian goals, giving him the hat trick. Lamoni - 0 Sarzonia - 3 Brian Williams (25, 30, 35) |
| Posted by: Milchama Feb 9 2006, 10:31 PM |
| Milchama News-Today-Tommorow-Chronicle-Telegraph-Journal-Update -Register-Sun-Enquirer-Post-Gazette-Times-Picayune-Herald Sports Section A win and a loss The Milchama Warriors have gotten off to an ok start in the AOCAF so far. They tied the Bedistan Lions before losing a 2-1 nailbiter to the Krytenia Aces. Coach Patrice Thibault said, "We had two good games. It is unfortunate that we were not able to pull out a win in either of these games. I think that next game we will be able to get a win." Now would normally be the time for the daily rendition of how they scored but unfortunately it is now very close to the Milchamian elections. So we're lucky to have a report at all. Soon we might be able to provide a more detailed match report, hopefully. |
| Posted by: Pacitalia Feb 9 2006, 10:45 PM |
| Hypocria comes from behind to edge Blue Foxes Pacitalia leads early but fails to hold on The Blue Foxes came into today's match against Hypocria feeling nothing but confidence following a 2-2 draw against powerhouse Starblaydia, but came out with a narrow 2-1 loss to defending champs Hypocria. An Andreos Charisteas goal early set the pace but the Hyppos were able to come back and score two quick goals, leading bookmakers to a collective sigh of relief. Pacitalia drops to fourth at 0-1-1 (1 pts, 3GF, 4GA, -1GD), much better than the 0-0-2 stumblestart most fans and bookmakers were expecting. The next game comes against the Blue Foxes' top U21 sporting rival, Fmjphoenix, as the two teams attempt to pull respectable finishes off in AOCAF XII. |
| Posted by: Milchama Feb 9 2006, 10:50 PM |
| Milchama News-Today-Tommorow-Chronicle-Telegraph-Journal-Update -Register-Sun-Enquirer-Post-Gazette-Times-Picayune-Herald Sports Section Milchama apparently have played a third match In our friendzy of election coverage we at the Milchama News-Today-Tommorow-Chronicle-Telegraph-Journal-Update -Register-Sun-Enquirer-Post-Gazette-Times-Picayune-Herald have apprently forgot a matchday. In the second matchday the Milchama Warriors beat the Falcania Falcons 2-1. This suprising win puts the Warriors at 4 points with 2 game to go. The Warriors only trail hosts Chicanada by one point and we think they need to be in the top three to advance so we are close. Our next game is key. Just ask Coach Patrice Thibault. |
| Posted by: Pacitalia Feb 9 2006, 11:01 PM |
| Pacitalia shaves down Fmjphoenix in exciting match Friendly rivals downed in nail-biter The Blue Foxes--Vikings rivalry continued to mature Thursday as the two senior teams clashed for only the third time in history. Pacitalia emerged with their first-ever AOCAF victory and a solid effort for the three points, catapulting them into third. Veranace d'Amantano and Andreos Charisteas scored for the Pacitalians, who now sit at 1-1-1 (4 pts, 5GF, 5GA, 0GD) and are having a much better go of the tournament than initially expected. The skilled Pacitalian captain, d'Amantano, broke the deadlock in the 34th minute, breaking past the Fmjphoenician defence and deking left as the keeper dived the other way. He then calmly flicked the ball into the left corner and began the celebrations. Fmjphoenix equalised soon after the halftime team talk, but the Blue Foxes were out for blood, and Charisteas, the lone goal scorer in the loss to Hypocria, converted a free kick, beautifully striking it over the head of the right two wall players and past the flying Fmjphoenician goaltender into the top right corner. Pacitalia's surprising record in this tournament (most bookmakers predicted a maximum 0-1-2 record by this point, with the two losses to Starblaydia and Hypocria and a draw to Fmjphoenix) has led them into third place in Group B, mathematically locked in with Starblaydia. The Blue Foxes have a good chance to contend but they must down Nojika and knock surprising upstart ASMV with a resounding victory if they wish to do anything. The Blue Foxes have two matches to move up in the rankings but the Starblaydi team is not about to bow out, so the Blue Foxes know they must take full advantage of their opportunities if they hope to advance in their first-ever AOCAF tournament. Hypocria appears primed to lock in that top spot but the second place position is definitely still wide open between four teams in Group B, Pacitalia included. |
| Posted by: Andossa Se Mitrin Vega Feb 10 2006, 12:42 PM |
| ASMV Playing Surprise Role Thus Far All signs tend to point to the ASMV squads underperforming in most any competition. And it looked as this would be no different following an embarrassing match against Hypocria in the opener. However, it seems that kind words from the Hyppos have inspired the Sea Dragons to great play, and now they have positioned themselves in second place in the group thus far - right behind those Hyppos. ASMV 1 - Nojika 0 As expected, this match was hard fought on both sides. Defensively, both squads were brilliant, turning away attack after attack. ASMV keeper Jenna Jaffrey was the highlight of the match with 6 saves - three of them seemingly impossible. It was not until the 73rd minute when Marcel Maas stole the ball from a Nojikan attacker and made a brilliant pass to a streaking Broderick Wallenstein that things changed. Wallenstein scored on a nifty move that left two Lions players wandering "Where did who go?" ASMV 2 - Starblaydia 0 The surprise of the century, as far as Vegans everywhere are concerned. Most people did not give us much of a chance, and a ton of people lost money on this one. Jenna Jaffrey was once again brilliant in the net and defenders Maas, Fidel Berte, and midfielder Kendrick Pu made play after play, thwarting the Starblaydi opportunities. The women controlled the outcome of the match. Jaffrey allowed no goals, and Ali Devincenti (22) as well as Anika Milosavic (61) did the scoring job for the Sea Dragons. With remaining matches against a struggling Fmjphoenix squad and the streaky Pacitalia players, anything can happen. But for right now we will enjoy our 5 minutes of fame. |
| Posted by: Sarzonia Feb 10 2006, 02:00 PM |
| Stars can't keep up in draw Legalese is quickly becoming known as a team Sarzonia do not like playing. Despite an overall winning record against the juris practitioners, the Stars can't help thinking of high profile results that didn't go their way against the Black and Red. Such a result happened in AOCAF XII as the Stars were forced to rally from 2-0 down to escape with a point while Nedalia's win put the Lions in sole possession of first place in Group C. "We've said from the very beginning it's not how you start, it's how you finish," said assistant coach Brett Hancock. "We played a terrible first half but we responded in the second half. We still have some tough fixtures remaining before the group stage ends and the knockouts begin." Sarzonia are thanking their stars (no pun intended) for Ettore Salivani. He rallied a side that came out of the halftime locker room dejected and scored the first Stars goal 57 minutes on with spirited play that almost single-handedly brought Sarzonia back from its doldrums. Salivani then sent a textbook longball to Brian Williams, who deked past the Legalese goalkeeper for the equaliser at the 84th minute when it began to appear that the underdog lawyers would steal three points from Sarzonia yet again. "No matter what, that's still a rivalry waiting to explode," Coach Dave Wilson said. "I don't forget ugly losses like the 5-2 result to Legalese in World Cup XVIII qualifiers." Neither does the rest of the team. |
| Posted by: Pacitalia Feb 10 2006, 05:12 PM |
| OOC: And, yes, folks, Salivani is a Pacitalian product. So yes, I rock. |
| Posted by: Hypocria Feb 10 2006, 05:42 PM |
| Bring On The Blaydis Three games into the AOCAF and the champions now have three wins to their name after a one sided encounter with SAAS allies Nojika. Alex Santoro’s side never really gave the Panthers a look in and goals from Deucher, Kreska and Bercali secured another three points for the reigning AOCAF champions. Fittingly the win was inspired by a man of the match performance from Hypocrian captain Marcus Baxter who was winning his 100th cap. Hypocria 3 - 0 Nojika The Hyppos are now three points clear at the top of Group B. There’s a surprise in second place as Andossa Se Mitrin Vega jumped a couple of places in the table. The Sea Dragons finally showed what they can do in beating a surprisingly lacklustre Starblaydia 2 - 0. The former champions drop to fourth behind Pacitalia who overcame struggling Fmjphoenix 2 - 1. Next is the mouth watering prospect of the Atlantian Oceania Champions taking on the World Champions. Well technically it’s the World Champions “B” team but that’s just a minor detail. The Hyppos actually have a surprisingly good record against Starblaydia in the AOCAF, having beaten the Purple Peril in the quarter finals of both AOCAF IX and XI. On the other hand it could perhaps be pointed out that Hypocria has never in fact really beaten Starblaydia as both encounters finished 1 - 1, with the Hyppos advancing on penalties. Of course this is merely another minor detail. |
| Posted by: Lamoni Feb 10 2006, 10:20 PM |
| Hawks defeat Hiiraan 2-1 A seeming awakened Hawks squad held on to defeat Hiiraan 2-1 in today's match, which puts the Hawks into third place in Group C. The losses to The Allied Clans and Sarzonia were costly, but worth it if the Hawks can salvage what is left of the group stage schedule to eke into second place. Both Julio Carwile, and Max Roath scored in the victory. Lamoni's remaining group stage schedule will see it face both Legalese and Nedalia, both teams that the Hawks can beat if they have truely found their rythm now. Lamoni - 2 Julio Carwile (15), Max Roath (40) Hiiraan - 1 unknown (12) |
| Posted by: Sarzonia Feb 11 2006, 05:58 PM |
| Stars in control after hard-fought win After a disappointing 2-2 draw against Legalese, Sarzonia knew coming into its match against group leader Nedalia that they would have a "war" on their hands. A "friendly war," as many Sarzonians are describing the match between the Lions and the Stars, but a war nonetheless. The match lived up to the billing as forward Brian Williams's second goal came as second half injury time wore down and Sarzonia defeated Nedalia 2-1. Sarzonia (3-1-0) take sole possession of first place in Group C after the win. "We had to fight and scratch and claw for that win," assistant coach Brett Hancock said. "We knew this match was going to be critical for us to win with Nedalia showing excellent form this tournament. We're glad we didn't get off to our usual slow start in this tournament." The Stars may not have a slow start for the tournament, but after a 2-0 deficit against Legalese before rallying, the Stars found themselves down 1-0 just nine minutes after the opening kickoff when the Stars defence failed it on what seemed to be a routine cross. The goal stunned the Stars and their navy-clad supporters, but Hancock quickly rallied the troops. "I told them they needed to calm down," Hancock said. "We're an experienced side and we've faced worse situations before and we've rallied." The team took until the end of the first half to listen to their coach, but they finally got Williams' first goal 38 minutes on as he pressured the Nedalia defence and slipped the ball through the goalkeeper's leg for the equaliser. "It was a big goal and it gave us some momentum heading into the break," Williams said. "We knew there were 45 minutes left in our chances of advancing and we had to take full advantage of that." The Stars' ability to do that all but clinched the team a berth in the knockouts but Hancock said the team would have to keep fighting. "The job isn't done until we win the AOCAF," he said. |
| Posted by: Andossa Se Mitrin Vega Feb 11 2006, 06:41 PM |
| ASMV Continues Shocking Run As the Sea Dragons left the field following a 3-2 victory over Fmjphoenix, players realized for the first time that they controlled their own destiny for moving on. It remains to be seen if that is a good thing. Looking at the standings for the group shows ASMV atop the standings with the mighty Hyppos. If ASMV can manage to take care of business against a pesky Pacitalian squad, they will advance to be the doormat of the next round. But that fact does not concern any of the Vegan players or fans. What matters now is advancing and making some noise. |
| Posted by: Milchama Feb 11 2006, 08:48 PM |
| Milchama again victims of biased refereeing. The Milchama Warriors were victims of biased refereeing today as they lost to Chicanada 2-0. The two goals came on two controversial penalty kicks and the Milchamians were reduced to 10 men in the 5th minute when our captain, Doni Kunalin, was sent off when he asked the ref about a foul that was commited. OOC: If Chicanada scorinated the match then I demand a rescorination for my match because I don't think Chicanada can do the scorination justly and fairly if they are on the verge of qualification and I am their opponent for getting the qualification. I know I would not be fair and thus I do not trust anyone else to be fair. (Star CC9) |
| Posted by: Hypocria Feb 12 2006, 03:50 PM |
| There May Be Trouble Ahead . . . Starblaydi football had been going through something of a slump after an AOCAF defeat to Andossa Se Mitrin Vega and the first team’s loss against the Islands of Qutar in the World Cup. But we all knew it wouldn’t last too much longer but sadly for Hyppos’ fans the Purple Peril emphatically found it’s form against the blue and white. The writing was on the wall early on in this Group B encounter as a quick Starblaydi break in the tenth resulted in Marius Black cynically tripping an opposition attacker and receiving a red card for the professional foul. From then on the men in mauve attacked in waves and but for the prowess of Ricardo Kindelan the defeat could have been much worse. Hypocria 0 - 3 Starblaydia National coach Alex Santoro remained philosophical after his first defeat in charge, “They were due a win against us. We’ve really rode our luck in the past against Starblaydia in this tournament, we couldn’t expect it to last forever. Still, it’s better to lose here than in the knockout stages.” But the nation’s passage into the knockout stage is looked much more precarious now then it did a little while ago. The Hyppos remain top of the group but only goal difference separates us and Andossa Se Mitrin Vega. That after the Sea Dragons recorded a thrilling 3 - 2 win over Fmjphoenix. Starblaydia are lurking two points further back, well positioned to capitalise if either of the top two slip up during the final round of matches. The other nations are already eliminated. We can’t decide whether having the final fixture against Fmjphoenix is a good thing or bad thing. Certainly the Viking’s Under-21 side have made no impact whatsoever having been beaten in every game so far. But there’s that nagging feeling that, with just pride to play for, Fmjphoenix’s youngsters will put on a show. Nothing but a win will do for Starblaydia and against their (and our) SAAS allies Nojika you’d expect them to get it. And then there’s ASMV. A Sea Dragon win over debutants Pacitalia and they are through regardless. Basically it’s all up in the air. What is certain is that three into two doesn’t go. One nation is going home disappointed. Oh the drama! |
| Posted by: Lamoni Feb 12 2006, 08:48 PM |
| Have they found their stride? Lamoni knocked Legalese out of contention, and secured third place with a decent shot at second place in Group C with a 3-0 victory over Legalese. To prove that they have hit their winning stride, the Hawks will have to defeat Nedalia, which would put them in at least second place (first place if Sarzonia loses their next match). That would get them securely into the knockouts. However, if Lamoni loses the match against Nedalia, it's going to take some creative mathematics for them to get to the knockouts. We think that the Hawks are up to it. In other related news, Forward Max Roath had an excellent match, scoring a hat trick against Legalese. This should be a good omen for him as his contract with Lamonian side Lemnos FC comes up for renewal. Lamoni - 3 Max Roath (20, 30, 40) Legalese - 0 |
| Posted by: Chicanada Feb 12 2006, 09:12 PM |
| OOC: Yes, I did scorinate the Kodiaks matches, but due to protests: Official press release To: Competing Nations, Group D From: AOCAF XII Committee RE: Scores Due to complaints over results in matches involving the host nation, the AOCAF XII Committee and the CFA have agreed to pull the B-Side Kodiaks out of the tournament. All matches previously against the Kodiaks will be removed from the sheet and today's match against Falcana will be rescheduled as a friendly. Thank you for your time. AOCAF XII Committe |
| Posted by: Sarzonia Feb 12 2006, 10:22 PM |
| Sarzonia win battle of the Stars The Stars won the match. The only way that wouldn't have been the case would have been if Sarzonia and The Lowland Clans played to a draw to close out the group stage of the AOCAF XII tournament, but Sarzonia came out on top 2-1 due to an own goal by The Lowland Clans and a Brian Williams marker negating yet another 1-0 deficit. Sarzonia (4-1-0, Group C champions) finish the group stage with a rarity: A higher seed than their opponents and the top overall record in the group stage. That despite playing the likes of Nedalia and The Lowland Clans, teams with either a run of great form (the Lions) or a tradition of football prowess (The Lowland Clans). The Stars face Krytenia in a AOCAF matchup that reminds many of the first AOCAF back in the days when Sarzonia's team were "a bunch of weekend footballers" and Dave Wilson was a young assistant coach. "Times have changed since then," Wilson said after the match. "Back then, we were sending what was then our best possible team without a domestic league having much backing and without much of a clue about international football. We've managed to establish ourselves as a football team to be reckoned with in more recent years. Indeed, the Stars have the world's number one ranking and the World Cup XXII title to their credit, but Sarzonia have never lifted the AOCAF trophy. However, their head coach has. "Hopefully, we can give Dave Wilson another AOCAF trophy, this time with the team that got him his start," assistant coach Brett Hancock said. Hancock said after the match that he would be allowing Wilson to assume the head coaching reins during the knockout stages and "hopefully, his mojo will rub off on this side." Whether Wilson or Hancock calls the shots, the Stars will certainly come out firing. Whether they can win the AOCAF for the first time is anyone's guess. |
| Posted by: Milchama Feb 12 2006, 11:29 PM | ||
Milchama was shocked and awed by the decision the Chicanada Kodiaks made today as they pulled their B-team from the tournament. MFA President Calvin Chintermantomantoman said, "We had not intention of having them PULL THEIR TEAM from the tournament. We only were not sure that the referee was honest and fair and I believe that he wasn't." OOC: I just didn't want you to scorinate your own team I definitely did not want you to withdraw from the tournament. |
| Posted by: Andossa Se Mitrin Vega Feb 12 2006, 11:44 PM |
| ASMV Wilts Under Pressure Starblaydia 5-2 Nojika Hypocria 3-1 Fmjphoenix Andossa Se Mitrin Vega 0-1 Pacitalia ASMV and Pacitalia fought out a most outstanding defensive battle today, with ASMV's chances of moving forward hingimg on the result. 81 minutes into the match, word reached the stadium of Strablaydia's 5-2 crushing of Nojika. Every one of the Sea Dragon players knew that a draw would no longer be good enough. Unfortunately the added effort work against them. As the squad pressed things a bit too much, Pacitalia took advantage in the 86th minute. Fans and players alike knew at that moment that the unlikely run had come to an end. Eyes now turn to the CoH and the slim hope that is represented there. |
| Posted by: Nedalia Feb 13 2006, 07:23 AM |
| Elite Eight Preview and Predictions Turori v Starblaydia Despite stumbling through the group stages (including a suprising 2-0 loss to ASMV), Starblaydia shook off the rust and finished off strong, defeating Nojika 5-2 to grab the 2nd placed slot in Group B. They scored 12 goals, tied with Hypocria and Sarzonia for most in the group stages, but uncharacteristically conceded 6 goals, with careless play leading to opponents scoring. Against Turori, the AOCAF Cup's most illustrious team is going to have to take care of that problem if they wish to advance. Scoring 8 goals and conceding only 2, Turori were ruthlessly efficient in the group stages, topping Group A ahead of other heavyweights such as Vilita and Bettia. They're only loss came to Vilita in a tightly contested 2-1 affair, and outside of that match, they managed to keep 4 clean sheets. While it remains to be seen if they can stop the impressive Starblaydi attack, they will be ready and willing to pounce on any careless play their opponents might throw at them. A tough match, but Starblaydia will come out on top simply due to the sheer class they possess in their squad. WINNER: Starblaydia Hypocria v Vilita The champions from Verdena are on a quest to retain their title, but they will have to get past one of the most accomplished teams in the universe, nevermind the AO. An impressive group stage run (save for the 3-0 loss to Starblaydia) saw the Hyppos qualify top of Group B, scoring an impressive 12 goals and conceding 4, with 3 of those from the Starblaydia match. The champs look in great shape, finishing off with a 3-1 victory over disappointing Fmjphoenix on the final matchday. Theyve been on top of their game offensively, but have shown an ability to choke against a big team, something which Vilita is. Despite coming in 2nd in Group A, we consider them the top team, along with Bettia, in that respective group. They defeated group leader Turori, but inconsistency across the board led to 2 draws. They scored only 4 goals, but conceded only 2. They did not lose in the group stages, and their stingy defence is going to give Hypocria problems. That being said, the Hyppos look champions, and after a very close encounter, will find their way to the semis. WINNER: Hypocria Sarzonia v Krytenia Mouthwatering tie. SDL vs. SAAS. The Sarzonians topped Group C, garnering 12 goals and conceding 4, and also managed to defeat Nedalia 2-1 in the process. The Stars have been looking sharp, smart, crisp, and efficient under their new management, but face what is, so far, their toughest competition in the tournament thus far. Despite the close call against the Lions, the Stars have looked all-together convincing, with talk being that they could be the ones who will lift the trophy at the end. Before that happens, they need to get by Nedalia's northern neighbor and SAAS member, Krytenia. Despite losing 2 matches, Krytenia qualified with ease, coming in 2nd in the controversial Group D, behind Druida. Their offense was on point, scoring 8 goals in 4 games, but their defence was a little on the mediocre side, conceding 5 goals. They finished off with a great 3-1 victory of Bedistan, so they are heading to the Quarter-Finals with the right attitude. Despite the favorites being Sarzonia, we think Krytenia will pull off an upset in this one, and head to the Semis, despite them being with that "other" crew. WINNER: Krytenia Druida v Nedalia The amateurs from Nedalia have looked anything but that. Coming in 2nd to Sarzonia in Group C, they conceded 4 goals and scored 11 in 5 games, with their only loss coming to the Stars. Outside of their loss, they have been hugely impressive, with fans all over Nedalia favoring them over their "superstar" team that just barely got past Collonie in their first CoH match. Nedalia were runner-ups in AOCAF 10, losing to Starblaydia in the finals, and the B-Lions are looking to emulate that run. With the way they have been playing, and taking into account their record against Druida, they would appear to be the favorites, on paper, to win this match. Druida cruised through the group stages, topping Group D with a 100% record, including a big 2-1 victory of Krytenia. They only conceded 1 goal and scored 10, and statistically, they were the most impressive team in the group stages. However, despite our head telling us otherwise, we cannot possibly go against the B-Lions on this one, and we are giving them a victory, opening up the path to the Semi-Finals WINNER: Nedalia |
| Posted by: Hypocria Feb 13 2006, 03:08 PM |
| Hyppos Through Going into the final round of group games the Hyppos needed a win over bottom side Fmjphoenix to be assured of a place in the quarter finals. Without it there was still a change that both Andossa Se Mitrin Vega and Starblaydia could overhaul the champions. With centreback Marius Black suspended after his red card against Starblaydia Dynamo Rasium defender Ryan Steiner came in for his international debut. The men in blue and white came out fighting and almost scored straight from the kickoff when Deucher headed Bercali’s leftwing cross onto a post. The fans didn’t have too wait too long for the opening goal. This time Deucher and Bercali reversed roles with the striker laying the ball off for the Vilita based winger to fire a low drive past the keeper and into the net. The second goal was all Bercali’s own work. The tricky attacker skipped past a defender, cut inside and curled a fine shot past the keeper for a majestic goal. The half time interval came and went. Ten minutes into the second half the Hyppos seemingly put the result beyond doubt when Baxter’s long range effort was parried and Deucher was left with the simplest of finishes from the rebound. It was almost four when Baxter found Bercali unmarked in the penalty area but the hat trick chance thudded into the side netting. With the match all but over the Hyppos took their foot of the gas and the Vikings got on the score sheet after a quick counter attack in the eighty first minute. But it proved to be a mere consolation. Hypocria 3 - 1 Fmjphoenix Hypocria are joined in the quarters by Starblaydia who stuck five past Nojika. And spare a thought for the Sea Dragons who came within a whisker of qualification only to miss out by a single point after a narrow defeat against Pacitalia. As mentioned three points was enough to wrap up top spot in Group B. The reward? A Quarter Final match against two time AOCAF champions Vilita. Twice before we’ve met the Jungle Cats in this tournament. A goalless draw is the best result so far with the other a narrow defeat in a rather high profile match, the final of AOCAF IX. In the other matches Starblaydia take on Turori, Nedalia face Druida and Sarzonia renew their acquaintance with Krytenia. As for predictions, well I think those chaps over in Nedalia have probably called it right. |
| Posted by: Sarzonia Feb 13 2006, 03:15 PM |
| Stars hope to come up Aces again CANA, Chicanada (ASP) -- Sarzonia have had an excellent run against Krytenia's national football team almost from the very beginning. After Sarzonia's initial contest against the Aces finished 2-0 in favour of the Aces, the Stars have had an excellent run against Krytenia with two wins in World Cup knockout stages in penalty kicks and one in regulation. But their run started with a shock 3-1 win over Krytenia in the first-ever AOCAF third place match. That history did little to bring comfort to the Stars braintrust heading into the AOCAF XII quarterfinals match between these sides, the first meeting in the AOCAF tournament since Sarzonia's victory 11 tournaments ago. "You think the law of averages is going to catch up with you sometime," Coach Dave Wilson said after the team's final training session before the Stars and Aces prepare to kick off the knockout stages with their match at West Coast Stadium. "You can never get used to dominating anyone or being dominated by anyone. Eventually, they'll get one over on us. Eventually, we'll defeat the Evil Empire [Rejistania]." The Stars aren't taking things for granted in spite of a 4-1-0 record that was the best in the groups stage and would have given Sarzonia a number one overall seed if the playoffs were operated in a full-on seeding format. "You don't win trophies for the best record in qualifying stages or groups stages," assistant coach Brett Hancock said. "You win trophies by being consistent throughout a tournament. That's going to be our challenge." The Stars to a man aren't worried that a Nedalian news outlet predicted a Krytenia upset. "We're the underdogs now," Wilson said. "That suits us just fine. No one respects the second-choice Stars. We'll go out there and earn it." |
| Posted by: Krytenia Feb 13 2006, 04:04 PM |
| Here We Go Again A three-one win over neighbours (and World Cup second round opponents) Bedistan has catapulted the Jacks into the quarter finals. Their opponents? Yup, you guessed it. It's time for another grudge match against the Sarzonians; this time though, Krytenia are slight favourites with the bookies to go through. The wonders of the B-teams show a lack of depth in the Sarzonian squad, and there just might be light at the end of the tunnel for the side that reached the semis four years ago. |
| Posted by: Chicanada Feb 13 2006, 11:01 PM | ||
OOC: Eh, it was a misstep on my part and was rightfully remedied. Too many Cherry Cups hosted (ok, so 2) and scorinated my own while never doing well, I guess :-p Just don't expect your team to be welcomed admirably on Chicanadan soil |
| Posted by: Sarzonia Feb 15 2006, 10:08 PM |
| Stars come up Aces, again The last thing a team wants to do is get used to losing. For the Sarzonian national football team against Krytenia, they have fortunately not had that distinction, having beaten Krytenia in every senior national team meeting since their 2-0 loss at the end of the first AOCAF group stage. Their streak against the Aces continued thanks to Brian Williams' 19th minute goal and a stingy defence that limited Krytenia to nine shots while Sarzonia fired 14. "We came up with precisely what we needed when we needed it," assistant coach Brett Hancock said. "Brian got up real high for that header and he was all over the pitch for us the whole match." The win over Krytenia sets up a rematch of the bitter rivalry between Sarzonia and Starblaydia that had its ugliest match in the previous AOCAF groups stage. The ugly 2-2 draw saw several red cards, including resident Blaydes goon Francisco Ibanez. Of course, technically he plays defence, but where the Stars are concerned, he's nothing but trouble. "We know that the match against Starblaydia is going to be nothing but a blood feud," midfielder Ettore Salivani said. "It's plain as the nose on your face. We don't like them. They don't like us. It's Sarzonia v. Starblaydia. It's SDL v. SAAS. Democracy v. tyranny. Good v. evil. It's all of that." Stars' Coach Dave Wilson tried to distance himself and his team from the comments by the Stars' biggest hothead, saying "it's going to be a tense football match, but these matches usually are." But Wilson couldn't deny the intensity of a match that saw both teams finish with nine players a side and Sarzonia play the remainder of the match down 2-0 with its coach in the showers after Hancock was shown a red card. "I'm going to make it clear to the team that we need to keep our composure no matter what happens," Wilson said. "We're a young team and we need to make sure they don't try to get under our skin." |
| Posted by: Starblaydia Feb 16 2006, 12:50 PM |
| Starblaydia Face Rivals Sarzonia In Semis Tumunzahar hits two milestones, AOCAF Greats in Final Four Starblaydia not-quite-cruised into the Semi-Finals of AOCAF12, their tenth attempt at the AOCAF title, having had a joint-record four previous championship successes in the tournament. So far, in this Cup, whenever Starblaydia have been faced with old friends or rivals, they have come out victorious. Jade Matranga and Christian Macia sank Fmjphoenix 2-0, while a three-goal margin over reigning champions Hypocria saw goals from Lazaro Rivera, Roberto Vega and young defender Antonis Kouvas. Even a seven-goal thriller against Nojika saw Starblaydia come out 5-2 victors, with two major records set for Starblaydi football in that match. As for the records, we'll get into that later on. Starblaydia's 'new' opponents, Pacitalia and Andossa Se Mitrin Vega, both managed to put two goals past a not-so-watertight Starblaydi defence. It would be easy to blame the sending off of 'Cisco Ibanez, the inexperience of Kouvas or the age of Hernandez, but Starblaydia just didn't perform in the games they were expected to cruise to a win. Yes, Tumunzahar and Rivera bagged a goal each to save Starblaydia's blushes against Pacitalia, but against the Vegans not a single goal was forthcoming. Starblaydia hadn't failed to score in a match in the AOCAF for twenty-four years, an impressive record, for sure, but since that AOCAF6 Final defeat to Vilita, 2-0, Starblaydia have scored in every AOCAF match since then. Until the Vegans came a-calling in Chicanada. Speaking of scoring, in the 5-2 against Nojika, two major landmarks were arrived at by Starblaydia's famed Dwarven striker Zhorin Tumunzahar. Firstly, his first goal - the opener - was Starblaydia's 600th goal in all senior international competitions. Then, the fifth and final Starblaydi goal of the match, to make it 5-2, was Zhorin's forty-fourth goal, equalling World Cup Committee President Simeone Di Bradini's tally of 44 for his country. Zhorin, of course, still has two games to go before he thinks about retiring, so what chance a 45th and a new record? Sarzonia await in the Semi-Final, thanks to a Rabindra Singh goal in the Quarters against Turori. Starblaydia's line-up against the very vocal and rather insulting 'Stars' will surely be that listed below, with Ibanez returning up against his nemesis Ettore Salivani.  All Ibanez had to say on the matter was: "I'm Eeeeeeeevil." |
| Posted by: Starblaydia Feb 18 2006, 09:34 AM |
| 3rd is Best Hope For Starblaydia Sarzonia victorious for first time in AOCAF meeting Starblaydia, as their AOCAF victories, Under-21 title and World Cup Championship proves, have always had strength in depth. Particularly over their world and regional rivals, Sarzonia. In the entire history of the AOCAF, stetching back nearly 50 years, this is the first time that Sarzonia's Stars have defeated the Starblaydia Reserves. Though they needed Extra Time to accomplish a 3-2 victory, Sarzonia advanced to their second AOCAF final in a row, their third overall. Without a win in their two previous Finals, Sarzonia have been defeated by the last of the great NEWI Cefn Druids sides, along with surprise Champions Hypocria. Now the Stars will face a Vilitan side who are undefeated in the competition, as are the Stars themselves. As for the Semi-Final, Kyle Mason opened the scoring, shortly pegged back by Lazaro Rivera as he punched through the centre of Sarzonia's defence follwed by a well-taken chip past Tolliver, the keeper. Starblaydia put themselves one up through, of all people, 'Cicso Ibanez. After a goalmouth scramble from Jade Matranga's cross, Ibanez was quickest to react at the far post, throwing out a leg and knocking the ball home. His reaction to his goal, quite predictably, involved whipping his shirt of and generally abusing the closest Sarzonian players and fans. For this 'celebration' he was quite rightly booked by the Chicanadan referee. Ibanez was taken off shortly after, replaced by wing-back Ricardo Almeida, just to ensure that Starblaydia didn't finish with 10 men. Sarzonia, however, pulled back level at 2-2 through little substitute Ryan Palmer - which turned out to be the goal that took the match to a decisive Extra Time. |
| Posted by: Sarzonia Feb 18 2006, 01:20 PM |
| STARSHOCK Sarzonia's national football team have had many accomplishments in the time they've been in existence. The senior national team has won a world championship, a Cup of Harmony trophy, and the Baptism of Fire Cup. The now-defunct Junior Stars under 21 national team appeared in the finals of World Cup VI. But one thing the second choice Stars have never accomplished was defeating Starblaydia in AOCAF play. That ended last night. Sarzonia's winning goal came with injury time winding down and penalties looming, courtesy of their biggest star of the AOCAF tournament, Brian Williams. He exploited a hole created by right back Ricardo Almeida overplaying Williams to the right side. Almeida's position was the one vacated by Francisco Ibanez after he was substituted out of the match. Williams fired a shot past the Starblaydi keeper seconds before the final whistle signalled a 3-2 win for Sarzonia. "We were desperate to avoid penalties," Williams said. "I just wanted to get a good shot on net and hope for the best and when it went in, we just felt relief more than anything." The final whistle meant Sarzonia's 3-2 win in extra time was the first time the Sarzonian "B" team defeated Starblaydia, but the Stars reacted as calmly as they could be expected to considering the circumstances. "We have one more match against Vilita and we need to win that game," assistant coach Brett Hancock said. "Dave [Wilson, the senior team's head coach] stressed the importance of focusing and winning this last match to bring the AOCAF trophy home. He said he didn't want the Stars to be the AOCAF version of the Buffalo Bills. For us to avoid that, we have to win the whole thing." Ibanez wasn't sent off for anything he did on the field as his coaches substituted him before that happened, but as forward Kyle Mason lined up a free kick 100 minutes on, he was sent off after screaming at the referee's assistant for failing to call Williams offside. The Chicanadan referee showed Ibanez a second yellow, then red and Ibanez caused roughly $15,000 Sarzonian in damage to the area around the team. The Chicanadan football association is expected to send Ibanez the bill for the damages and if he or his football association don't pay, they're expected to file a lawsuit. "That's just inexcusable," Coach Dave Wilson said of Ibanez's actions. "We knew he was a dirty player and he just proved it to the nth degree after that." Ibanez's ejection means he will be unavailable for the third place match. But for Sarzonia, the win means they'll face Vilita for all the marbles. "We've been here before," Wilson said. "We've come up short twice. Now it's time to end the streak once and for all." |
| Posted by: Starblaydia Feb 19 2006, 04:22 PM |
| Tumunzahar Denied! No solo record for Dwarven great Zhorin Tumunzahar, who officially retired from international football following the third-placed play-off against Druida, will forever have to share his place as Starblaydia's Number-one marksman with Simeone Di Bradini. Both of the two great players finished their careers on 44 goals. Simeone getting them from 84 appearances, with Zhorin netting his in 91 games. So ZT has the record for appearances, but must only joint-hold the record for goals. The 0-0 scoreline did nothing for anyone's scoring records, though it took Starblaydia to a nervy penalty shootout, something that every player should experience at least once, just in case it happens again. Starblaydia, going second, smashed in all five of their penalty kicks, with Tumunzahar, Vega, Matranga, Ibanez and Santiago all hitting the back of the net. So, Starblaydia pick up more medals for their AOCAF trophy cabinets, though missed out on a fifth, record-breaking, title. Four years time, you never know what might happen. |
| Posted by: Sarzonia Feb 20 2006, 01:34 AM |
| STARS SHINE BRIGHTEST, 3-1 Ever since the Sarzonian national football team played its inaugural match in the very first AOCAF tournament, the Stars had never won a AOCAF tournament title in two previous attempts even though the team won a World Cup trophy. There's a first time for everything. Forward Brian Williams gave his supporters among the Partisan Drizza faithful in the Hyper League something to cheer about as he scored a hat trick to lead Sarzonia to its first-ever AOCAF title as the Stars downed Vilita 3-1. "This trophy is for Dave Wilson. Point blank," assistant coach Brett Hancock said in a jubilant locker room following the trophy presentation and the gold medals for the championship win. "He's been here and he's had a hand in winning the last two AOCAF championships." Wilson disagreed. "This was Brett Hancock's doing," Wilson said. "I only addressed the team once, at his request. He was the one calling the shots for Sarzonia throughout this tournament. The record may show that I was the coach, but this was Brett Hancock all the way." Regardless of who should receive credit, the man or men responsible for training the Stars can look at AOCAF XII with considerable pride. The team had only one draw during group play and beat the Starblaydi national team for the first time in AOCAF play en route to their championship, though they needed extra time to do that. This time, they dominated from start to finish against a team that had been their nemesis in the Jungle Cats. Williams scored each of his goals in the first half as the Stars built a 3-0 lead heading into the halftime locker room, where Hancock delivered a stirring speech, according to now-retired forward Brian Wilson, invited into the locker room to give inspiration to the second choice Stars. "He was exorting them to play the best 45 minutes of their lives," Brian Wilson said of Hancock. "He said, 'you never know if this is going to be your last game as a football player. You never know if what happened to Krytenia's national team is going to happen to you. If you never play another game of football, let these 45 minutes be your legacy'." Whatever becomes Dave Wilson's legacy in his second go-round with the Stars after one world championship and a Cup of Harmony trophy with Sarzonia and a AOCAF title with Hypocria still has yet to be decided. But even if he's content to give credit to Hancock for coaching the team while being listed as an assistant coach, he can at least add an elusive AOCAF title to the team's laurels. |