AO Forum :: [Powered by Invision Power Board]

Printable Version of Topic
Click here to view this topic in its original format

AO Forum :: > AOCAF - The AO Regional Soccer Tournament > A O C A F I I :: Rp Thread

Posted by: Vilita Aug 2 2004, 03:34 PM

AOCAF II INFORMATION CENTER

There Will be Two Groups of 6 Teams. All Matches will 'take place' in Vilita, so there is no Home/Away advantage (except I guess for Vilita). Each Team will play each other once (5 matches). At the end of 5 Matchdays, the top 4 teams in the table (3pts - Win; 1pt Draw) will advance to the Quarter Finals. From there, The matches will be one off Knockouts, with the Top Standing team facing the bottom Standing team, then 2nd Top vs. 2nd Bottom, on down. If matches are even after 90 minutes, a 30 minute extra session will be played. If even after the Extra Session, Penalty Kicks. Quarter Final winners advance to the Semis, Semi Final Winners to the Final, and Semi Final Losers to the Third Placed Playoff.

Matches will start on THURSDAY AUGUST 05, and proceed every other day for 5 Matchdays (Thursday, Saturday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday). Results will be generated in the AM so you should get your RP's posted by the Night Before Scores are Posted. Scores will be posted in THIS POST, down below where the group Schedules are. This will be done to save RP space in the thread. On the morning of Matchday, the two Group Schedules will be updated, with the "v." being replaced by "[#]-[#]", The Number on the Left being the goals scored by the team on the left, the number on the right being the goals scored by the team on the right. Obviously, the team with the most goals wins, and gets 3 points. The team with the least goals gets 0 points. If both have the same, then its a tie, both get 1 point. I will also edit the topic description to say "Matchday 1 Posted" or whatever Matchday is Posted, when it is Posted. Currently it says "Pre-Tournament RP's".

There will be an RP Bonus, so the better RP you post, the more "bonus points" you get towards winning the match. If you are playing a team with the same ranking as you going into the tournament, but you posted some good RP's, and they have not posted any, then You will go into the match as the Mathematical Favorites, thanks to your RP BONUS!

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

Seedings have been Announced for the AOCAF II Championships to be held in Vilita. Teams From Tier 1 will be drawn first, in seperate groups, and on down until Tier 5, where 2 Teams will be drawn for Group 1, then the Final 2 teams in Group 2

CODE

------------------Tier 1
NEWI Cefn Druids
Vilita
------------------Tier 2
Sarzonia
Crystilakere
------------------Tier 3
Krytenia
Turori
------------------Tier 4
Nojika
Xile
------------------Tier 5
Starblaydia
Stralphi
Pedriana
Lamoni
-Any Other Entrants-

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

Group 1

CODE

Vilita :: Crystilakere :: Krytenia :: Xile :: Pedriana :: Lamoni

Group 1 Matches Will be held at::
National View Stadium, Morata Valley (Home of Inland Peaks AFC) (cap 42,000)
Turoki National Stadium, Turoki City (Home of Turoki Isle FC) (cap.36,000)
Owls National Stadium, Yeaddin (Home of Yeaddin Owls AFC) (cap.22,000)

CODE

------------------------Group 1 Schedule
Matchday 1
   Vilita [1]-[2] Crystilakere - ( National View Stadium ) -
  Krytenia [1]-[2] Xile - ( Owls National Stadium ) -
Pedriana [2]-[2] Lamoni - ( Turoki National Stadium ) -

Matchday 2
  Vilita [3]-[1] Krytenia - ( Turoki National Stadium ) -
  Xile [2]-[1] Pedriana - ( National View Stadium ) -
Lamoni [0]-[3] Crystilakere - ( Owls National Stadium ) -

Matchday 3
  Vilita [2]-[1] Xile - ( Owls National Stadium ) -
  Pedriana [0]-[1] Crystilakere - ( Turoki National Stadium ) -
  Lamoni [3]-[2] Krytenia - ( National View Stadium ) -

Matchday 4
Vilita [5]-[0] Pedriana - ( National View Stadium ) -
  Krytenia [1]-[1] Crystilakere - ( Owls National Stadium ) -
Xile [2]-[2] Lamoni - ( Turoki National Stadium ) -

Matchday 5
  Vilita [2]-[1] Lamoni - ( Turoki National Stadium ) -
Crystilakere [0]-[1] Xile - ( National View Stadium ) -
Krytenia [3]-[1] Pedriana - ( Owls National Stadium ) -

CODE

FINAL GROUP 1 STANDINGS

-- W D L F::A GD Pts
Vilita 4 0 1 13 5 8 12
Crystilakere 3 1 1 7 3 4 10
Xile 3 1 1 8 6 2 10
Lamoni 1 2 2 8 11 -3 5
------ELIMINATED---------------------
Krytenia 1 1 3 8 10 -2 4
Pedriana 0 1 4 4 13 -9 1

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

Group 2

CODE

NEWI Cefn Druids :: Sarzonia :: Turori :: Nojika :: Starblaydia :: Stralphi

Group 2 Matches Will be held at::
Jlinal Cove Complex, Jlinal (Home of Jlinal Cove AFC) (cap.44,250)
Crossroads Stadium, Alikki-Corra (Home of Alikki-Corra FC) (cap.30,000)
Council Stadium, Tivali City (Home of Tivali City) (cap.26,000)

CODE

------------------------Group 2 Schedule
Matchday 1
NEWI Cefn Dr [2]-[0] Sarzonia - ( Jlinal Cove Complex ) -
   Turori [1]-[3] Nojika - ( Crossroads Stadium ) -
Starblaydia [2]-[2] Stralphi - ( Council Stadium ) -

Matchday 2
NEWI Cefn Dr [4]-[1] Turori - ( Council Stadium ) -
   Nojika [1]-[2] Starblaydia - ( Jlinal Cove Complex ) -
  Stralphi [1]-[2] Sarzonia - ( Crossroads Stadium ) -

Matchday 3
NEWI Cefn Dr [3]-[1] Nojika - ( Crossroads Stadium ) -
Starblaydia [2]-[0] Sarzonia - ( Council Stadium ) -
Stralphi [0]-[4] Turori - ( Jlinal Cove Complex ) -

Matchday 4
NEWI Cefn Dr [3]-[0] Starblaydia - ( Jlinal Cove Complex ) -
Turori [1]-[2] Sarzonia - ( Crossroads Stadium ) -
  Nojika [1]-[1] Stralphi - ( Council Stadium ) -

Matchday 5
NEWI Cefn Dr [4]-[2] Stralphi - ( Council Stadium ) -
  Sarzonia [3]-[0] Nojika - ( Jlinal Cove Complex ) -
Turori [2]-[2] Starblaydia - ( Crossroads Stadium ) -

CODE

FINAL GROUP 2 STANDINGS

-- W D L F::A GD Pts
NEWI Cefn Druids 5 0 0 16 4 12 15
Sarzonia 3 0 2 7 6 1 9
Starblaydia 2 2 1 8 8 0 8
Turori 1 1 3 9 10 -1 4
------ELIMINATED---------------------
Nojika 1 1 3 5 10 -5 4
Stralphi 0 2 3 6 13 -7 2

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

Quarter Final Matches (Monday August 16th)::

CODE

NEWI Cefn Druids [2]-[0] Turori

National View Stadium, Morata Valley (Home of Inland Peaks AFC) (cap 42,000)

CODE

Vilita [3]-[0] Lamoni

The Shultis, Lonngeylin (Home of Strike FC) (cap. 68,000)

CODE

Crystilakere [2]-[1] Starblaydia

Marine World Park, Crosaibi (Home of Marine Coast United) (cap.57,500)

CODE

Xile [1]-[2] Sarzonia

Jlinal Cove Complex, Jlinal (Home of Jlinal Cove AFC) (cap.44,250)

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

Semi Final Matches (Wednesday August 18th)::

CODE

NEWI Cefn Druids [1]-[0] Sarzonia

The Shultis, Lonngeylin (Home of Strike FC) (cap. 68,000)

CODE

Vilita [2]-[2] Crystilakere
Vilita [3]-[3] Crystilakere (AET)
PK:
Vilita !3!-!4! Crystilakere

Marine World Park, Crosaibi (Home of Marine Coast United) (cap.57,500)

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

AOCAF FINAL (Friday August 20th)::

CODE

NEWI Cefn Druids [2]-[2] Crystilakere
NEWI Cefn Druids [3]-[2] Crystilakere (AET)

Tivali Ring Stadium, Alikki-Corra (cap. 87,000)

Third Placed Playoff (Thursday August 19th)::

CODE

Vilita [3]-[0] Sarzonia

Lirai Asku Castle, Yeaddin (New Home of Yeaddin Owls AFC) (cap.62,500)

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 3 2004, 10:28 PM

During the midst of World Cup qualifications, the fixtures for the second AOCAF tournament were announced and the Sarzonian national team is opening with defending AOCAF champion NEWI Cefn Druids.

"That will be a brutal test right off the bat," Coach Bryan Marshall said. "That team is doing very well in World Cup qualifying and they won the last AOCAF tournament so we'll have our work cut out for us from the outset."

The Stars say their concern is that their second seed makes them one of the hunted teams rather than the hunters.

"Last time, we sneaked up on people," midfielder and team captain Bobby Convey said. "This time, we won't have that luxury."

The team said they are trying "unorthodox" methods of preparing for the opening match. Team sources wouldn't confirm what their preparations entailed.

Midfielder Darwin Russell would be "quizzed heavily" by the Sarzonians about tendencies of the Druid players.

"He plays over in that league now, so we're going to try to find out as much as we can about their players," forward Brian Wilson said.

[Secret IC: The secret "unorthodox" preparation will be to yell "TREVOR!" at inopportune moments during the match in an attempt to distract the Druids.]

Posted by: Vilita Aug 4 2004, 01:02 PM

Jungle Cats announce Team for Crystilakere

Alikki Corra, Vilita - The Tropics of Vilita Jungle Cats have announced their final 18, from which the starting roster for the opening match of AOCAF II against Crystilakere will be selected. Bryan 'Pop' Duiker and Jimmy Kater were expected to alternate in Goal, however, Kater has already played two full matches for the Senior Side in World Cup 16 Qualifiers and may be required to stay permantly with the team in Rejistania or Brazillico for the World Cup Finals. Jan Christansen, Hluali Mijatos and Serge DuPont are expected to compete for the starting attacking roles, with Antonis Ratuva and Lai Otieno the only Defensive Midfielders registered, Senior Player Jurgen Ramzi again sitting out the Regional Championships.

Select 18 for Crystilakere ::

Goalkeepers :: Bryan 'Pop' Duiker & Jimmy Kater
Defenders :: Sibusiso Azaïez, Ricky Ezis, Esemar Aliana & Danilo Liguori
Midfielders :: Antonis Ratuva, Calaesa Mitaroka, Tanner Nerni, Sublé Tonic, Marasent Sioane, Malovar Stokks, Jonathon Stott & Lai Otieno
Forwards :: Jan Christiansen, Hluali Mijatos, Serge DuPont & Jim Vella

Posted by: Crystilakere Aug 4 2004, 01:27 PM

Crystilakere Ready for Group 1 Test

The Crystils have been drawn in group 1 for the AOCAF II Group Stage, and will face Long-Time Rivals Vilita. The only other team in the group that Crystilakere has faced is Krytenia, who the Crystils faced in the group stage of AOCAF I. Xile was wiped out in the other group in AOCAF I, while Pedriana and Lamoni are newcomers to the competition, and should be easy work for the Crystilakere Team.

CODE

Vilita :: Crystilakere :: Krytenia :: Xile :: Pedriana :: Lamoni

Posted by: Xile Aug 4 2004, 02:35 PM

Today the Xilian AOCAF team selected their jerseys and a new team name, the Xile Bullet Wounds. As we all know, the coach and captain of the last AOCAF were executed for their miserable performance, so the name is meant to remind the team of the consequences of losing.

Also, the government selected the name as to make a joke of the extinct nation of Soul Expression and their puppet Bullet Wounds. The name reminds other nations within the region of what happens to Xilian opposition. Their jerseys will be yellow with a black skull and crossbones on the left shoulder, mimicking the flag of the the original Bullet Wounds. They also ordered special shoes that were half white, and half blue, with an eagle contrasting each color.(OOC: Remeber Tachbe?)

Posted by: Krytenia Aug 4 2004, 03:24 PM

TOUGH TEST FOR CELESTIALS

Krytenia have been drawn with heavyweights Vilita and Crystilakere in Group One of the AOCAF Cup, alongside Xile, Lamoni, and latecomers Pedriana.

Crystilakere are the only side the Celestials have played in their short international football history, drawing 2-2 in the first AOCAF Cup in Krytenia. Vilita, of course, are very well known around the footballing world.

With their new bright yellow shirts, Xile's main chance of winning the group may well be getting themselves confused with the stewards. Meanwhile, Lamoni are expected to be mere fodder.

Finally, there's Pedriana. Gatecrashers they may be, but we all remember NEWI Cefn "Denmark" at AOCAF I.

Krytenia kick off tomorrow against Xile in Yeaddin. See you there!

Posted by: Starblaydia Aug 4 2004, 03:39 PM

Starblaydi shaping up for Regional Tournament
Veteran side not expecting to win

With an average age just over 29, Starblaydia are sending a highly experienced side to Vilita to compete in Group 2 of the second AOCAF. Many veterans of Starblaydia's first World Cup campaign are joined by a smattering of current- and ex-Under-21s there to fill out the squad to eighteen.

We asked stiker Guylain N'Dumbu-Nsungu, the oldest player in the group at 35, on his predictions for the tournament:

Match Day 1:
Starblaydia Vs Stralphi @ Council Stadium, Tivali City
"Also seeded in pot 5, Starblaydia will have to beat Stralphi to gain a foot-hold before we can qualify. We will be looking to win here, and will be very disappointed to walk away without any points"
Guylain's Prediction: 2-1 Win

Match Day 2:
Nojika Vs Starblaydia @ Crossroads Stadium, Alikki-Corra
"One step up the rregional-seedings ladder, this will be another tough test. We know we won't be the favourites, but we'll do our best."
Guylain's Prediction: 1-0 Win

Match Day 3:
Starblaydia Vs Sarzonia @ Crossroads Stadium, Alikki-Corra
"They've already won a tournament in Vilita, back in the Baptism of Fire. That means they'll be back on Vilitan soil with happy memories, looking to win the tournament. Very tough."
Guylain's Prediction: 2-2 Draw

Match Day 4:
NEWI Cefn Druids Vs Starblaydia @ Jlinal Cove Complex, Jlinal
"They're the best team in the region, and I'm certain this will be our toughest match. The last time we played them, the Druids beat us 1-0 in the International Recreation Competition, so we'll be looking to avenge that."
Guylain's Prediction: 2-1 Loss

Match Day 5:
Turori Vs Starblaydia @ Council Stadium, Tivali City
"If you check the World rankings we're only just behind Turori, but looking at our squad for this tournament, we're not going to be level on the pitch in our last group game."
Guylain's Prediction: 1-1 Draw

Posted by: Pedriana Aug 4 2004, 03:52 PM

Pedriana Ready for AOCAF Appearance

After just settling into Atlantian Oceania yesterday evening, the Empire of Pedriana has made all the necessary preparations for entry into the second incarnation of AOCAF, which will be the first international sporting event the nation has participated in. A squad of 21 players has been recruited by the Imperial Army on fairly short notice, but it is hoped that they will do well nevertheless.

Pedriana has been drawn into Group 1 along with the nations of Vilita, Crystilakere, Krytenia, Xile, and Lamoni. Most of us are quite familiar with the first three of those, which are relatively well-known in the international footballing world. Xile and Lamoni are unknown to the general Pedrianan populace and to the team as well.

The first match is against Lamoni at the Turoki National Stadium in Turoki City, Vilita.

Prediction of finish: 1st*

[* This newspaper is printed by the über-oppressive government of Pedriana, which will not tolerate failure. Therefore, they don't make it an option.

]

Posted by: Lamoni Aug 4 2004, 03:55 PM

"This is Chelsea Rusley for the Lamoni Broadcasting Corporation. We're out here on the practice field to get an interview with the coach of the Lamoni Hawks, Tim Matthews. (looks) There he is now. Mr. Matthews!! I'm Chelsea Rusley for LBC, and I was wondering if we could interview you on your team's chances in this tournament."

"Certainly," the coach said. "Though we are newcomers to these kinds of tournaments, and everyone thinks that we will be easy to defeat, you can't really tell that to these guys. Why, just look at who we'll put out on the field for the first game. The 18 for Lamoni are:

Goalkeepers :: William Nakaaki and Ivan Bubov
Defenders :: Ryan Opolotono, David Greenburg, Luke Henry and Brian Huston
Midfielders :: Martyn Hill, Joe Gilmore, Paul Wade, Graham Dolan, Graham Savage, Rick Taylor, Austin Quentin and Harold Lasley
Forwards :: Jason Dreweck, Howard Sims, Matthew Chaney and Jason Paul

It's a pleasure to coach such a good team."

"What are your realistic chances of winning the tourney?," Chelsea asked, because she had seen the other teams practice as well.

Why that question? , the coach thought. "Chelsea," he said, "it's not whether we win or lose the tourney here that counts. It's how well we play the game. This is our first international tourney, so we have to prove that we can stand up to the other teams, and win."

I wonder if he's nervous? , the reporter thought. This could be a big boost to Lamoni if we do well. Gathering her thoughts, she asked "What is it like to lead a soccer team on it's first international tournement?"

Visibly relaxing now, the coach smiled and said, "Well Chelsea, these are the best soccer players in Lamoni, taken from their teams to be in international tournaments. If these guys can't hack it, no one can."

"Thank you for your time, Coach Matthews. Quite a story, John."

(cut to LBC studio)

"Indeed it is, Chelsea. In other news..."

Posted by: Stralphi Aug 4 2004, 04:07 PM

We have had 3 of our leading analysts decide on the results of our 5 games.
The scores will start with a W, L, or D depending on whether the game was a win, lose, or draw for Stralphi.
Starblaydia v. Stralphi
W3-2, D1-1, W1-0
Stralphi v. Sarzonia
D2-2, L1-3, W1-0
Stralphi v. Turori
L1-4, D4-4, D1-1
Nojika v. Stralphi
D3-3, W3-2, L2-3
NEWI Cefn Druids v. Stralphi
L0-2, L3-1, D2-2

Posted by: Turori Aug 4 2004, 04:08 PM

Turori Ready for AOCAF Campaign

Almintora, Turori - The Turori Eels have been drawn in Group 2 for the Second Atlantian Oceania Cup of Association Football. The Eels were dramatic underachievers in the first AOCAF tournament, after being drawn in the same group as Vilita and NEWI Cefn Druids, and only recording any points over inexperienced sporting nation Xile. The Eels have avoided both Vilita and Xile in the group draw this time around, However will have to face defending champions NEWI-Cefn Druids on Matchday 2. Turori have also drawn Sarzonia, who, like Turori, won the WCC Baptism of Fire Cup. Unluckily for the Eels, Sarzonia won the cup in Vilita, so will be no stranger to the sights and sounds of the region. The Eels face Nojika in their opening matchup, in what could prove to be the deciding match on whether the Eels progress to Round 2 or go home early. Nojika, like Turori, were participant in the First AOCAF cup, unlike the other two nations in the group, Starblaydia and Stralphi. While Stralphi have no past sporting experience, Starblaydia have been making an impression on the world stage, currently sitting in sleepers position to qualify for the 16th World Cup in Rejistania and Brazillico.

The Eels Starting lineup for the AOCAF Tournament is likely to include many of the new trialists of full or dual Nationality looking to make an impression on coach Gisterfred Q. Disterfred. Coach Disterfred has recently backed Central Defender Martika Ecspo for a regular place in the side, by starting him for the qualifying match against Wella. However, players like Rikko Ambama, Half-Sarzonian Arturo Bengali, Half-Oglethoprian Aaron White, and other trialists will be looking to the AOCAF tournament to impress the Turori FA into a regular place in the National side.

Posted by: Xile Aug 4 2004, 04:13 PM

President Adonis Lauir walked calmly in front of the Xilian team. A frown was upon his face. A cough was heard down the line, and a drop of sweat hit the floor with eerie loudness.

'As you well know, I will NOT tolerate the humiliation we recieved at the last tournament. Your weakness in the event reflected weakness on my part, and that, in turn, reflected the weakness of the country. Is our nation weak?' Adonis paused. 'I will repeat, IS OUR NATION WEAK?'

'NO SIR!' came the unified response.

'Good. Now that we see things eye to eye, I expect you to make your nation proud. Good luck in the tournament.'

The team filed for the exit, where the hooded royal executioner held the door for them.

'Now someone see if we can get an assassin on that Krytenian sports-caster with his damn snide remarks.'

Posted by: Crystilakere Aug 4 2004, 05:28 PM

Crystilakere Support Assasination

The Crystilakere Government has apparently offered it's top snipers to the aid of it's allies Xile in the attempt to rid the world of the snide Krytenia Sportscaster responsible for the comments on the New Xilan nickname and Uniforms. It is reported that the attempted assasination will occur in the last half hour of the Xile-Krytenia matchup, with the atmosphere expected to be so engaged that no one will notice of the lanky sportscaster's dissapearance.

Posted by: Krytenia Aug 4 2004, 08:15 PM

QUOTE (Krytenia @ Aug 4 2004, 09:24 PM)

With their new bright yellow shirts, Xile's main chance of winning the group may well be getting themselves confused with the stewards.

After this seemingly off-the-cuff remark on the new Xilian uniforms, KBS broadcaster John Nwoko will be commentating in Vilita under the protection of four bodyguards. Nwoko's comments appear to have upset the Xilian heirarchy, and people who do this have been known to "disappear".

Join Jonno and Mark "Saggers" Saguinetti on KBS later for the Celestials' opening game:

KRYTENIA v XILE

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 4 2004, 10:26 PM

In a scheduing quirk, both groups in AOCAF II have their top two teams scheduled to compete against each other in the first match of the tournament. As a result, the Sarzonian national team has been preparing intensely for the AOCAF tournament opener against the NEWI Cefn Druids.

"They're the defending champions from last year," Coach Bryan Marshall said. "And they're dominating in World Cup qualifying right now. We're going to have a test right away."

The Stars have been listening intently to midfielder Darwin Russell, who became the first foreign-born player in the NEWI Cefn Druids league as he has given the team tips on many of the Druid players.

"Darwin has been a fountain of information," midfielder Jeff Conley said. "He knows those guys in a way that you can't just by looking at tapes. That's probably going to be our biggest edge."

Russell was sold by the Nicksia Knights to Parkville F.C., one of the best clubs in the NEWI Cefn Druids for 2.8 billion groats ($10 million Sarzonian).

"I've been telling the lads as much as I can about the Druids team players I've played with and against. I'm hoping that will help us."

"There won't be an easy match in this tournament," goalkeeper Troy Perkins said. "This is just the first test."

Posted by: Nojika Aug 4 2004, 10:41 PM

Nojikan Panthers Coaches Discuss AOCAF II Today

Head Coach Randy Mulder announced today that he has made rookie 17 year old Shane Follett and rookie 18 year old Andrew Beat the new captains of the Nojikan international team.

"I had the oppurtunity to watch both these young men play during the u-18 finals for Rozier F.C. and it stunned me that such young men as these two could play with an energy greater than many former veteran players. I placed them on the roster and allowed them to practice with the our team without the intent of making them captains of the team, let alone play for me in the AOCAF...I believe we will see great things come from these two in the games and years to come..."

The two young players have been recieved well by both the nation as a whole and by their older more experienced teammates. The two new stars have made an incredible impact on the moral of the team and have added an all new energy and feel to the game for the Panthers. Many believe that these new young players are just what the Panthers have needed to get themselves the recognition of a great team.

Assistant Coach, Shon Kezele told reporters that he believes the Panthers will have a fairly easy time with all of their opponent's this season and that the only team he believes will be a challenge this year will be the defending AOCAF champs, NEWI Cefn Druids.

Both coaches were asked their thoughts on the outcomes of each match and they provided the following:

Matchday 1
Turori vs. Nojika @ Crossroads Stadium, Alikki-Corra
"This game will be a very offensive game for us and I am confident we will prevail with a 3-0 win." - Head Coach Randy Mulder

"There is no doubt in my mind that we can't beat this team, as long as we play tight and take shots on goal. I'll give us a 4-2 win." - Asst. Coach Shon Kezele

Match Outcome Predictions: 3-0 Win , 4-2 Win

Matchday 2
Nojika vs. Starblaydia @ Jlinal Cove Complex, Jlinal
"This may be a tough match early on. We will be playing against a tough defence and a great offence. I think this game will be won in the last minutes of the game. I predict a 2-1 win." - Head Coach Randy Mulder

"I have faith in our boys' and their defensive capabilities. And with Follett in the back, I'm sure we won't need our goalie. I say it will be a 1-0 win, won early on." - Asst. Coach Shon Kezele

Match Outcome Predictions: 2-1 Win , 1-0 Win

Matchday 3
NEWI Cefn Druids vs. Nojika @ Crossroads Stadium, Alikki-Corra
"This will no doubt be our toughest game. Our team is definetly ready to play the Druids, but I don't know that we can outplay them, at least not this year. This time I have to predict a 2-0 loss." - Head Coach Randy Mulder

"We have a young team with a great bit of experience. But I don't know that we have the experience neccasary to beat the Druids. It will all depend on the situations we are given on the field. I think this might be a closer match than most, a 2-2 draw." - Asst. Coach Shon Kezele

Match Outcome Predictions: 2-0 Loss , 2-2 Draw

Matchday 4
Nojika vs. Stralphi @ Council Stadium, Tivali City
"I think that if we play the ball quickly to feet and don't play around with it, we will be able to get around Stralphi's tough defence. I think this will be a close match for us with a 2-1 win in the end." - Head Coach Randy Mulder

"Stralphi's got a great defence and a preety decent offence. This game will come after we play the Druids and I don't know that our boys will have the energy to come out and beat this team like they'll need to. I think this may be a 1-0 loss." - Asst. Coach Randy Mulder

Match Outcome Predictions: 2-1 Win , 1-0 Loss

Matchday 5
Sarzonia vs. Nojika @ Jlinal Cove Complex, Jlinal
"This game should be little problem for our boys. We've definetly played harder teams and won, I think this will be a 2-0 win." - Head Coach Randy Mulder

"Oh, our offence is going to love this game. It's going to be a free-for-all offensivly, hell, our defenders may get a chance to score here. This will be a 4-0 win, and I think our new defender, Shane Follett, will score in this one." - Asst. Coach Shon Kezele

Match Outcome Predictions: 2-0 Win , 4-0 Win

Clearly, both coaches have an extreme amount of confidence in their team and when asked if they were being generous or if they actual thought these may be the outcomes of the game, Head Coach Mulder replied saying that, "We've been working for a great amount of time now together as a team. Over the past couple of weeks we've grown closer as a family and bonded. I've seen an incredible amount of trust growing amongst the older players with our new young additions to the team and I believe this trust we'll show on the field." Asst. Coach Shon Kezele then ended the brief meeting saying this, "This team will prove to be one of the best this region has ever seen. It may not be this season, but in the near future, this team, as it stands now, will prevail with countless victories and will become an idol for teams to come. Thank-you..."

Posted by: Vilita Aug 5 2004, 04:51 AM

This Document was released today by VOIA following research on the planned assasination of Krytenian sportscaster John Nwoko

QUOTE

Official Discovery and Findings Report
Assasination of Mr. John Nwoko

Location :: Owls National Stadium, Yeaddin
Hosts :: KBS Broadcasting via Yeaddin Owls AFC
Affiliate Nations :: Xile, Crystilakere

VOIA Intelligence specialists have determined that initial reports on the assasination of KBS Broadcaster John Nwoko by a coalition of Xilan and Crystilakere Snipers have been off the mark. While originally thought to take place during the opening Krytenia v. Xile matchup, it is now believed that the Xilan government has laxed it's position on the matter, and will wait to see what kind of mood they are in following the match before deciding whether to go ahead with the plan. It is believed that the only thing that can prevent the assasination from going forward would be a 2+ goal victory for the Bullet Wounds.

More Information to Follow...

Posted by: Starblaydia Aug 5 2004, 05:58 AM

Ahmed Not Worried By Stralphi Predictions
New Vic's striker says their 'analysts' are well off

As part of our exlusive interview with the Vic's new striker Ahmed Ol-wairain, we asked him about Starblaydia's chances in the Atlantian Oceania Cup of Association Football.

"I think we have the potential to perform well, though we're certainly underdogs in this tournament."

VV: What are the Facilities like in Vilita?

"They've always been very good, and it's obvious that Vilitians love their football, they've hosted more than one tournament in their history, and may even co-host the next World Cup, which can only be good for us neighbouring countries."

VV: How does it feel coming to play for the Vics?

"They're a famous team, mostly because of Ryan Garry, who has been a phoenomenal player over the last few years."

VV: How do you feel about the first game against Stralphi?

"Well we've all heard the reports from their so-called Analysts, but those analysts obviously haven't been following any international tournaments. Starblaydia has been Vilita's main rival for a while, but that isn't really reflected in the team we've sent out this time, what with the World Cup qualifiers going on at the same time."

VV: So you'd prefer to be at the World Cup Qualifiers?

"Of course, that tournament is the biggest in the wrold, it's every player's dream to play in it. But I wasn't selected for that tourney, probably because i was in the Vilitan Beta Division-equivalent. I think we don't really have the strength in depth of many other big teams that we aspire to, not yet anyway."

VV: And finally, Ahmed, what will the score be in our first match?

"A win for Starblaydia. I'll probably won't start, but I'll be determined to come on and score a goal, hopefully the winner."

VV: Ahmed Ol-wairain, thankyou.

Article taken from www.vecchiovictors.co.sb

Posted by: NEWI Cefn Druids Aug 5 2004, 06:43 AM

*The groupings for the AOCAF cup are handed to Druid managers Trevor Kallins and Simon Greaves*

SG: "Who've we got then, Trev?"

TK: "Well, Sarzonia are first. One of their guys, Darwin Russell, plays for Parkville."

SG: "Well, that should be easy enough, we just ask his team mates what to do to stop them. I'm sure Amos'll tell us."

TK: "Don't be so sure... since he's come over here, he's been one of the star players in the league."

SG: "Amos Hinton'd stop him any day! Next..."

TK: "Next we have Turori."

SG: "Easy, they're recruting players from our second division, they can't be much good!"

TK: "Don't be so sure... a lot of their players play in Vilita, and they're not bad at all. In fact, it's almost a home tournament for them."

SG: "Who else we got?"

TK: "Nojika."

SG: "Not famous for their football, next."

TK: "Ah, so that's why we always used to get beat by teams not as notorious as ourselves. It's the wrong attitude to have, Greavesie, all games are tough at international level, but if you approach these things in the right mental state, it sure helps."

SG: "But Trev, we used to get beat by everyone, so it was never a problem back then. It'll be simple, trust me."

TK: "I don't, but we'll continue... Starblaydia after that."

SG: "Now that's a tough one, but still, we'll probably get something out of it."

TK: "And finally, Stralphi"

SG: "I didn't know Stralphi had a team!"

TK: "Actually, on this occassion, I'll let you off, I didn't realise that either!"

SG: "So when we've run away with the group, then what?"

TK: "Quarters, then semis, then the final if we get that far..."

SG: "You mean when we gat that far, Trev."

TK: "The teams in AO are a lot better than they were four years ago, Greavsie, this aint no walk in hte park we're going to here, this is serious business. If we don't play to our best, we'll get laughed out of town, and we wouldn't wish that on the lads, would we?"

*At this point, they both stop and think of the number of times this happened in their early playing days with the Druids, which shuts them both up. So we'll leave them to do whatever they have to do to get them ready.*

Posted by: Starblaydia Aug 5 2004, 07:53 AM

Opening Match Curse Lifted?!
Look look! We're in a qualifying position after one game!

7th time not-unlucky as Starblaydia overcame their international curse of losing every opening match of a tournament since they began competing. This 2-2 draw marks the first time the Blades have Played 1, and have a points score other than 0.

All the pundits were proved wrong as the Blades failed to slay the Dragons in Tivali's Council Stadium, though the Dragons didn't set the Blades alight either. Steve Owens provided the first strike as he fired past 'keeper Ral Terla on the half-volley after a lovely cross from Boomer Moore on the right, who was starting his first international match since the halcyon days of his Under-21 career.

It only took Stralphi twelve minutes to equalise. Captain Ral Seltis, capitalising on an uncharateristic mistake by 34 ear-old Stephen Asante, rounded the keeper and prodded the ball home as youngster Ceri Salisbury tried in vain to keep the ball out of the net with a sliding block.

Right at the end of the first half, Pel Altis was on the end of a lovely ball from Sam Lundin, which left him well clear of the Starblaydi defence, who were slow to drop back. Try as he might, Boaz Myhill couldn't save the shot and Altis scored, the ball going in from off the far post. Stralphi went in at half-time on a high with a 2-1 lead over the Blades.

In the second half, try as they might, Starblaydia couldn't get past the defence. That was until Ahmed Ol-wairain came on. Winning his first Cap for Starblaydia, he also had predicted he would score the winning goal. As Guylain N'Dumbu-Nsungu got tired and needed to come off, Ol-wairain came on and found the equaliser two minutes before the end.

It came after a Philip Ifil shot from around thirty-five yards. Terla lost the flight of the ball in mid-air and his attempted catch bobbled to quick-reacting Ol-wairain, who poked the ball into the net for a 2-2 draw.

This leaves Starblaydia 4th in Group 2 with one point, ahead of high-ranked colonists Turori and Baptism of Fire winner Sarzonia. A win against Nojika, who defeated Turori, would ceement Starblaydia's quest for qualification, though a defeat would probably mean bottom of the table for the Blades.

Final Score:
Starblaydia 2 - 2 Stralphi
(Owens 14, Ol-wairain 88) - (Seltis 26, Altis 44)

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 5 2004, 08:01 AM

Stars dimmed in 2-0 loss
The Sarzonian national team may have had other things on their mind entering this tournament. They are in the midst of World Cup qualifying and currently lead their group and the AOCAF tournament couldn't have come at a worse time. The Stars fell flat in their match against group leader and defending champions NEWI Cefn Druids, falling 2-0 and ending the team's 13 match unbeaten streak.

"We just didn't come out ready to play this match," Coach Bryan Marshall fumed. "We came in thinking we could beat these guys because we hadn't lost since the Vilita match. We got our hats handed to us in a big way."

Forward Trevor Belmore struck first for the Druids, sailing an accurate free kick into the upper right corner of the net that left goalkeeper Troy Perkins no chance in the 18th minute. The kick was accurate in spite of the Stars' inexplicable yelling "Trevor!" just as the forward was set to begin his kick, drawing a caution for Marshall.

"We were trying to pull out all the stops," Marshall said. "So many of their guys are named Trevor that we had to try something. Obviously, that didn't work too well."

Midfielder Bill Posters added insurance in the 90th minute with a brilliant counterattack after midfielder Jeff Conley lost the ball to defender Ron Lambeale.

"That was a horrible mistake on my part," Conley said. "But give Lambeale credit. He did a great job to win the ball."

"We're going to have to play a lot better to do well in this tournament," Stars' midfielder and captain Bobby Convey said. "This is the first time we've lost our opening match in a tournament and we want to make sure we don't fall into too large a hole."

Posted by: Vilita Aug 5 2004, 08:21 AM

Crystils Tame Jungle Cats

National View Stadium, Morata Valley - The First ever International Match at Inland Peaks National View Stadium in the Morata Valley region was an entertainin, but ultimately dissapointing affair for the hosts. The Jungle Cats were obviously the stronger side at the start of the match, with Inexperienced Jlinal Wanderers midfielder Antonis Ratuva, the media favorite to replace Jurgen Ramzi should he retire following World Cup 17, opened his International scoring account 13 minutes in with a blazing 25 yard effort that Crystils keeper Emilliano Addis had no chance of stopping. The Jungle Cats maintained their advantage, both on the field and the scoreboard through half time. Stand-In Coach Emzari Mbidzo made one substitution at the half, replacing Yeaddin Owls productive forward Jan Christiansen with Experienced veteran Jim Vella, looking for a last edge of Fitness before the Jungle Cats important world cup qualifier in Audioslavia.

-----------Strong defensive play from Sibusiso Azaïez protected the Vilitan advantage just minutes into the second half, as goalkeeper Bryan 'Pop' Duiker was caught off his line, but the recent Yeaddin Owls signing intervened brilliantly to put the ball behind for a Crystilakere corner. Coach Mbidzo made another change with 25 minutes remaining, taking out youthful midfielder Sublé Tonic and replacing him with Left Winger Malovar Stokks. The change seemed to Disrupt the midfielder however, with two predominantly Left Sided players, Stokks and Calaesa Mitaroka, clashing on the field. The Crystils took advantage on 72 minutes when Sebastian Wolf connected with a Rene' Niljssen free kick to level the scores to the delight of the 8,500 strong travelling support. They would have reason to cheer once again 8 minutes from time as Breakthrough Crystils Striker Toader Pold out paced the youthful Ricky Ezis and slotted past a helpless Duiker to give the former Regional Delegates a historic win over their Former Arch-Rivals in their First AOCAF Meeting.

Vilita Jungle Cats (3-5-2) ::
[GK] Bryan 'Pop' Duiker, [D] Sibusiso Azaïez, [D] Ricky Ezis, [D] Esemar Aliana, [DM] Antonis Ratuva, [M] Calaesa Mitaroka, [M] Tanner Nerni, [M] Sublé Tonic, [M] Marasent Sioane, [F] Jan Christiansen, [F] Hluali Mijatos
BENCH::
[F] Serge DuPont, [F] Jim Vella, [M] Malovar Stokks, [M] Jonathon Stott, [U] Lai Otieno, [D] Danilo Liguori, [GK] Jimmy Kater

Posted by: Pedriana Aug 5 2004, 04:25 PM

PEDRIANA 2 - 2 Lamoni

Llamas Make Promising Opening

TUROKI CITY, Vilita -- In their first ever international sporting event, the Pedriana Llamas managed to come away with a point by drawing with Lamoni at two goals each.

Paris Canetta would be the one to open the scoring with a chip over goalkeeper William Nakaaki in the 23rd minute. Though the Lamoni players argued that Canetta was offside at the time, the referee would hear none of it and let the goal stand. Not to be outdone, Lamoni forward Howard Sims tried a similar shot of his own, but J.C. Steich was a little bit quicker on the uptake and thwarted the shot. It wasn't long before they tried again, and this time Jason Dreweck managed to curve his shot behind Steich and into the goal. Going into halftime, the score was tied at one.

Disaster came for the Llamas early in the second half when 28-year-old Chong Imbimbo improperly tackled a Lamoni striker in the box, conceding a penalty. Midfielder Joe Gilmore proceeded to take the penalty kick, which Steich couldn't handle.

It looked like it was over for Pedriana, but substitute striker Sol Svedine made his presence known in the 82nd minute with a monster kick from 25 yards out that overpowered the Lamoni keeper and tied the score once again. With no Lamoni retaliation, that's how it would stay.

"I'm impressed," said Olé Retaguma, the Tingitanan coach of the team. "I really didn't think we'd get a result the first time out, but this is a point we're certainly happy to have."

The next match is against Xile and will take place at National View Stadium in Morata Valley, Vilita.

Final score:
PEDRIANA 2 (Canetta 23, Svedine 82)
Lamoni 2 (Dreweck 34, Gilmore pen 51)

Posted by: Xile Aug 5 2004, 05:10 PM

"...Eurie Adams fires one at the net and...GOAL! Thats going to about wrap this one up for the Bullet Wounds..." The radio is abruptly turned off.

"Hmm. Good. Halt the assassination of John Nwoko. No point in carrying it through now. We seemed to speak well enough with our play, no need to speak with death. Put sentries at the doors of the players, a victory party is most definately not in order. Make sure they do not leave their rooms and that they are asleep at a decent hour. They have to ready themselves mentally for the next match," mutters President Lauir.

"Oh, and send coach Maxelli the pictures of our former coach Patterson. The post-mortem ones. Have to make sure he keeps the bigger picture foremost."

Posted by: Lamoni Aug 5 2004, 05:18 PM

Lamoni 2 - Pedriana 2

Hawks make good start in Tourney

Turoki City, Vilita (Nephi Times)-- With the first game of the AOCAF II tourney under their belt, the Lamoni Hawks came away with a 2-2 draw.

The first goal of the game came from Pedriana's Canetta at 23 minutes. Lamoni players thought that Canetta was offsides at the time (later analysis of the pictures show that it was VERY close), but the referee ruled that the goal would stand. The Hawks got revenge 34 minutes into the match when Jason Dreweck curved his shot behind the enemy goalkeeper, and scored. The match was tied 1-1 at halftime.

Pedriana got in trouble in the second half when one of their players, Chong Imbimbo; improperly tackled a Lamoni player, conceeding the penalty. Midfielder Joe Gilmore took the penalty shot, which was too hot for Steich (Pedriana's goalkeeper) to handle (pen, 51). This put Lamoni up 2-1, and it looked bad for Pedriana. The defenses took over for much of the rest of the half, until Pedriana's Svedine scored at 82 minutes. The rest of the half proved to be an "I can do better saves than you can" match for the goalies, Nakaaki and Steich. As time ran out, the match was a draw at 2-2.

Coach Matthews had this to say: "I'm very proud of what we were able to accomplish today. We proved to others that we are not pushovers, and can take what comes our way. We were able to get a draw in our first international tournament game, and hopefully, we'll be able to build on that."

Lamoni: Dreweck 34, Gilmore (pen) 51
Pedriana: Canetta 23, Svedine 82

Posted by: Krytenia Aug 5 2004, 08:21 PM

THE YELLOW PERIL

KRYTENIA got off to the worst possible start in Group One of the AOCAF II Championship, losing two-one to AOCAF I also-rans Xile. The Celestials underestimated the opposition, put out a second-string team, and paid the price.

Xile had the run of the first half, taking a deserved lead through Steven Daron on 21 minutes. Daron's crisp shot from the edge of the box sealed a crisp and rapid counter-attack.

Krytenia did manage to pull the scores level before half time. Trent Dubilasco popped a cross over, and Roger Celsen volleyed past the Xilian keeper and into the back of the net.

The winning goal, though, came eight minutes from the end. Galvin Wilson's corner was only half cleared by Müller, and Eurie Adams' shot was past Quentin John before he even saw it.

KRYTENIA - 1
Celsen 41

XILE - 2
Daron 21
Adams 82

NWOKO HOSPITALISED

John Nwoko is being kept overnight in hospital this evening after receiving internal injuries in an incident at a bar in Yeaddin, Vilita.

Nwoko was drinking with a few members of the KBS technical crew when he was set upon by a group of Xilian fans. He was brutally beaten, and left in a crumpled heap, bleeding heavily and draped in a yellow "Bullet Wounds" jersey. The full extent of Nwoko's injuries have not yet been revealed.

Two Xilians were arrested last night, however charges have not yet been formally brought forward.

Posted by: NEWI Cefn Druids Aug 6 2004, 08:43 AM

The Daily Druid

DRUIDS TRICK STARS
Wayne Ottgunn-Irwin reports on Sarzonia 0 NEWI Cefn Druids 2

An unusual Druids side took to the field against Sarzonia in their opening match of their defence of the AOCAF cup, in that it only contained one player with the forename Trevor (though also one with the surname Trevor, too.) They lined up in a 3-5-2 formation, like so:

CODE

1. Garth

5. R. McDonald 6. Lambealle 22. Hinton

7. Posters 21. Leicester 12. Holmes
4. Orange 14. J.P. Trevor

8. Belmore 13. Gessemschmitthaagen-Po

In the end, the Druids came out with a two-nil victory, but it was the unexpected team selection that had people confused. Co-manager Simon Greaves explained afterwards, "Well, it worked, didn't it? Actually, we got a tip-off saying that they had a plan that they would randomly shout out "Trevor!" to confuse us, but as you can see, it didn't really work. But it's OK for us now. In the past, we never had back up players good enough to come intop the team, now we do, and you saw what they can do today."

So, will we be seeing anymore unusual Druid teams in the upcoming AOCAF fixtures? "You'll have to wait and see," said Greaves, not giving anything away. "But we won't just go ahead and do it for no reason - it's a deliberate tactic to create confusion amongst opposition teams who have prepared to face the usual Druids team, only to come up against an entirely different proposition." We'll see who lines up against Turori in their next game.

Posted by: Lamoni Aug 6 2004, 02:40 PM

Gathering the team around him at the team's adopted bar, Coach Matthews hoisted a drink and said:

"We did a good job out on the field today, guys. Today's draw is VERY important. Not only did it make us look good, but we can build on it and get a win against Crystilakere. Make no mistake, it will not be easy to win against Crystilakere, but I think that we have the right team to do it. We will have to be on top of our game, and not make mistakes. If we do that, we'll have a shot at winning. Got that?"

There was a chorus of affirmative replies, but then someone in the bar shouted:

"You guys couldn't score if your target was the broadside of a barn!"

Looking around to see who had made that comment, they saw a half-way drunk man wearing a patch of the flag of Crystilakere on his jacket. Continuing, he noted:

"Sure you got a draw against Pedriana, but there is no way that you rookies could take on a REAL team. Why, we eat fools like you for breakfast!"

"Is that so?," the coach asked "then why don't you show it on the field, and put your money where your mouth is."

Getting out of his chair, the guy came over and stood face to face with the coach. In his most arrogent tone of voice, he replied: "I'm not even sure that you have the money to lose." After that, he took a swing at the Lamoni coach, who blocked it.

"I would advise you not to try something that stupid again," the coach said in an angry voice, "you never know where the next blow could come from."

Drunkenly furious now, the guy took another swing, and summoned more of his Crystilakere friends at a nearby table, which started a bar fight. Jason Paul and Robert Anderson waded into the middle of the fight in a bid to try to stop it before it got out of hand, but were hit repeatedly for their efforts. Seeing their teammates go down, the rest of the Hawks went in, and the fight began in earnest. Blows landed, and were blocked. Bodies were seen flying into the air, and the fighters used anything that they could find for weapons, including beer bottles, and table legs. About seven minutes later, the local cops showed up, and tried to break the fight up. When that was accomplished, though it required police reinforcements, the lead cop looked at both groups with much annoyance and asked:

"Okay, who started this?"

When no one else would say anything, Coach Matthews told the cop about what had happened, and promised that the players from Lamoni would never do something like that again. Almost satisfied that it was the group from Crystilakere who started the fight, he had a Crystilakereite confirm the story. After he had done so, he stated:

"Here is what we are going to do. Since it was the Crystilakereites that started this, we're taking them to jail. However, both groups will have to pay monetary damages to the bar's owner. It's up to him to decide whether or not any of you can stay here, agreed?"

Coach Matthews readily agreed to the cop's proposal, and sent the team onto their bus to get them back to their hotel, where they would hopefully behave themselves. He then payed the bar owner the damages, and thought to himself, What a disgraceful lack of control. The president will NOT like this at all. Not only that, but we just created a minor international incident. We'll be walking on thin ice for quite a while. Hell, I might even lose my job. Still, i'm going to dock the pay of all the players involved in order to pay me back for all of this.

With that, the coach called a taxi, which took him back to his hotel, where the team would rest for the game with Crystilakere. He'd dock the player's pay tommorow. He only hoped that he did not lose his job.

Posted by: Crystilakere Aug 7 2004, 05:31 AM

Crystils Outclass Vilitan Rivals

The Nation of Crystilakere declared a national holiday following the National teams 2-1 defeat over their long standing rivals the Vilita Jungle Cats. Despite finishing one point higher than their Regional Rivals, The Jungle Cats swept both matches against the Crystils, 3-1 in Crystilakere and 2-1 in Vilita, with German Salomon and Santo Kecker each scoring twice and Callum Banda scoring once. The two Jungle Cat defeats kept the Crystils out of the World Cup, and forced them into the Cup of Harmony, where there first match was against none other than their North-Western Rivals. Again it would be the Atlantian Oceania founders on top, goals by Banda again and Jurgen Ramzi setting the Vilitans on course to their first trophy, the 14th Cup of Harmony.

Coming to AOCAF II, in Vilita, no one would have expected anything less than yet another Jungle Cat victory. With both sides fielding second-string squads, with the first team deep into tight world cup qualification battles, The odds on money was on the Vilitans as the match kicked off in Morata Valley. It only took them 13 minutes to open the scoring too, when Ramzi's understudy Antonis Ratuva scored his first career goal to put the Jungle Cats into an early 1-0 lead. They would hold that lead until late in the second half, when Sebastian Wolf, making his first ever appearance for the Crystils in a Senior-Level event would dramatically level the scores with less than 20 minutes to go. Then, Breakthrough striker Toader Pold would send the Crystils into an historic celebration with his 82nd minue winner that not Crystili Sports fan will forget for years to come.

In other news, Two Crystili supporters were arrested in Yeaddin after supposedly getting into a heated altercation with members of the Lamoni National Team. The supporters have been returned to Crystilakere by the Vilitan Government, and are expected to take full blame for the incident in a press conference tomorrow back in Crystilakere.

Posted by: Vilita Aug 7 2004, 08:13 AM

Jungle Cats Topple Krytenia

Turoki City, Vilita -- -- The Vilita Jungle Cats Regional Squad got back into gear in their second matchup of AOCAF II by knocking 3 past Krytenia in front of a packed Turoki National Stadium in Turoki City. Tivali City's Hluali Mijatos netted his first in a Jungle Cat uniform to open the scoring in the 22nd minute, after Lower League standout Musa Nikiema from Jaguar Moreda provided a delivery from the right. Defender Emarka Laniora then added his name to the Jungle Cat All-Time Scorers list after he connected with a Marasent Sioane corner kick after half an hour to double the Vilitan advantage. Bryan 'Pop' Duiker had little to do in the first half, dominated by the Jungle Cats, with Yeaddin Owls prospect Sibusiso Azaïez particularly stout in defense. Stokks again got involved when he fed Carmine Mbidzo from the right, and in stoppage time, Mbidzo etched his name back into the race for a spot in the Final Vilitan World Cup roster should the Senior side qualify from World Cup 16 Qualifying group 6.

- - - - - - Krytenia got one goal back through 17 year old Acienko Rimmer, scoring in a rare Celestial attack 10 minutes into the second half. The Jungle Cats, being led by Baron O'Toole and Lorenzo Mumamba in Player-Coach roles in the dugout, made their first substitution on 67 minutes, giving Jimmy Kater a chance to impress again after sitting on the Bench for the Adrasuvare match. O'Toole and Mumamba then inserted themselves into the game on 72 and 77 minutes respectively, before the final whistle blew, putting the Jungle Cats back in the race for their first AOCAF Title

Starting Lineup Vs. Krytenia

Vilita Jungle Cats (3-5-2) ::
[GK] Bryan 'Pop' Duiker, [D] Sibusiso Azaïez, [D] Emarka Laniora, [D] Jaloey Afrikka, [DM] Antonis Ratuva, [M] Marasent Sioane, [M] Sublé Tonic, [M] Musa Nikiema, [M] Malovar Stokks, [F] Hluali Mijatos, [F] Carmine Mbidzo
BENCH::
[F] Jan Christiansen, [F] Lorenzo Mumamba, [M] Baron O'Toole, [M] Tanner Nerni, [U] Lai Otieno, [D] Esemar Aliana, [GK] Jimmy Kater

Posted by: Starblaydia Aug 7 2004, 08:19 AM

"Coach, why are you not putting me in the starting line-up?" Ahmed asked a little too pleadingly in the team meeting after training.

Coach Colin Miles, a former Starblaydi international, picked up a newspaper and flung it in the direction of his third-choice striker. The headline read:

Starblaydi Super-Sub Seals First AOCAF Point

Miles, who was standing in for World Cup Qualifying-occupied Manager Georges-Ringeaux, walked round the eighteen international footballers in the room. He opened up his laptop and connected up the projector. Usually used to display the Pro-Zone statistics for the squad, this time it displayed the latest news on the Starblaydi Football Association's website.

Ol-wairain the Super-Sub
Ahmed does it again from off the bench

user posted image

With Chris Kabeya-MBaya taking an early knock and having to go off at the Jinal Cove Complex, Ahmed Ol-wairain came off the bench and scored his second in two games to help give Starblaydia their first AOCAF win and four points from two games. Though Nojika scored first with Jerrell Alson after co-captain Andrew Beat hit the post, Ol-wairain pulled one back with a lovely strike from around twelve yards. In the second half Guylain N'Dumbu-Nsungu secured the three points after heading the ball in from a corner.

With, strangely, two Panthers carrying a Captain's armband, Nojika's team broke up into three seperate parts of Defence, Midfield and Attack and Starblaydia capitalised..

"Coaching different parts of the team is a very North-American way of doing things," said Starblaydi Coach Colin Miles, "But we can see that this style of training can break down into its component parts under pressure. All we needed to do was divide and conquer as we played as one big team."

From this victory Starblaydia are now second in Group 2, behind 100%ers NEWI Cefn Druids, just ahead of 3-pointers Sarzonia and Nojika. Turori look to be rather badly placed in this group on results and expectations, flattened 4-1 by the Druids and beaten 2-1 by Nojika on the first match day. You would expect Turori to come back from this position, though Starblaydia will probably drop down a place or two as they have yet to play the three bigger teams in this six-team group.

Final Score:
Nojika 1 - 2 Starblaydia
(Alson 13) - (Ol-wairain 39, N'Dumbu-Nsungu 72)

Each player read the online report, some more quickly than others.

"You, Ahmed," Coach Miles began, "are our secret weapon. Nobody watches the Vilitan Declasse, nobody."

"I shold know, chief," chuckled second-choice Goalie Rene Griffiths, kept on at Eastal Lunar while Ol-wairain was released, "we get bugger-all TV money."

"Exactly." Miles agreed. "The less we play you, the less people can figure out your game, the better the chances are of you getting a goal. Guy and Chris are our starting pair, you are our super-sub. Boaz is our goalie, Rene is our reserve. Those are my orders from Mr. Georges-Ringeaux. I'll talk to him, Ok?"

"Yes, Coach. Thanks."

"Now, its the bleep test this afternoon..."

The grumbles started almost immediately, at least they'd have a day off tomorrow morning.

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 7 2004, 01:39 PM

Stars snap out of funk, 2-1

After a 13 match unbeaten streak, the Sarzonian national team was now facing a four match winless streak with three draws in World Cup qualifying and an ugly 2-0 loss to defending AOCAF champions NEWI Cefn Druids.

The Stars returned to their winning ways behind seven Troy Perkins saves and two goals from forward Brian Wilson and defeated the lower tiered Stralphi Dragons 2-1.

"It was very important to get the full three points and get a winning result," Coach Bryan Marshall said. "We hadn't been getting the late goals and Willsie took care of that for us. He's really become the team leader other than Bobby Convey."

"We just had to play a better brand of football," Wilson said. "We embarrassed ourselves against the Druids and we really had to make amends. Those guys [the Dragons] didn't make things easy for us; we really had to go after it. But we still got the result, that's the important thing."

Wilson gave the Stars a 1-0 lead in the seventh minute after Convey was fouled in the area with a well placed penalty kick that froze Dragons keeper Ral Terla. Wilson's second goal, after a brilliant cross from Convey in the 54th minute, seemed to give the Stars the game going away, but the Dragons resolutely applied pressure. They finally broke through in the 84th minute when forward Ral Celtis beat Perkins with a low shot to the left as midfielder Alina Pestera screened Perkins.

"That guy [forward Asar Leteno] fouled me in the box, but the referee never called it," Perkins groused after the match. Otherwise, we get a clean sheet. We'll still take this result, but we'd be even in goal differential if not for that non-call."

Posted by: Lamoni Aug 7 2004, 06:38 PM

Lamoni loses to Crystilakere

Vilita (Nephi Times) -- The Lamoni Hawks found themselves unable to score against Crystilakere today. This was expected to be a tough match, but Crystilakere's offense seemingly blew away the Lamoni defense.

Crystilakere scored at 13 minutes, 21 minutes, and 39 minutes.

When asked about the loss, Coach Matthews had this to say:

"We were thinking that something like this might happen. We hoped that it wouldn't be this bad, but we are not done yet. We hope to make up the loss with wins against Krytenia and Xile. Our guys wanted a win here, but we can still make it to the finals without it."

Perhaps the most damaging blow to the Hawks came when Lamoni goalie Nakaaki suffered a torn ACL in the altercation with Crystilakere supporters in a Vilita bar. Reports are that he will not be able to recover in time to return to the tournament. Replacing him will be goalie Ivan Bubov.

Lamoni - 0 Crystilakere - 3

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 8 2004, 12:39 PM

Stars look to dull Blades

After a four match winless streak, the Sarzonian national team goes into its match against Starblaydia with wins in its last two matches, a hard fought win against Stralphi in the second match of the AOCAF tournament and a convincing win over New Cyprus in World Cup qualifying.

"This next match against Starblaydia will be critical for our chances of advancing in the AOCAF tournament," Coach Bryan Marshall said. "We're in a tough group and only four out of six sides advance to the quarterfinals. Clearly, we want to be one of those four teams."

The Stars pulled out a "gritty" win against Stralphi and expect Starblaydia to be no less of a challenge.

"None of these matches are going to be easy," midfielder and team captain Bobby Convey said. "Anyone who thinks this tournament is going to be easy is fooling himself."

A team source said that the comments from Nojika expecting an easy win over the Stars was "already on the bulletin board," in the locker room.

"That really [ticked] off a lot of guys on this team," one player who spoke on condition of anonymity said. "We're definitely going to play these matches with a chip on our shoulders."

"We've got to focus on playing the game," forward Brian Wilson said. "We can't worry about what people are going to say about us."

Posted by: Starblaydia Aug 8 2004, 02:33 PM

Not a game for nicknames
Sarzonia Stars play Starblaydia Blades?
Stars Vs Starblaydia?
Stars Vs Blades?
See what we mean?

"Starblaydia Star-Striker Stars in Five-Star Starlight win over Stars" is the headline no sane journalist wants, unless they're so pro-Starblaydi they need to be done for Soccer Hooliganism. Well, not necessarily for being a Hooligan, but for doing the appaling headlines and articles after the World Cup matches against Soccer Hooliganism.

So here's hoping for a match were every commentator uses the nation's actual names, doesnt get carried away with puns and the like and all in all, make sure Starblaydia kick some Baptism of Fire-winning ass.

Posted by: NEWI Cefn Druids Aug 9 2004, 09:53 AM

The Daily Druid

STRANGE TACTICS CONTINUE
Wayne Ottgunn-Irwin reeports on Turori 1 NEWI Cefn Druids 4

After omitting almost all Trevors from their opening AOCAF game against Sarzonia, the Druids followed up by playing a 5-0-5 formation in their second match, similar to those used in times when football was always played in black and white. Anyway, they lined up as follows:

CODE

1. Garth

6. Lambealle 22. Hinton
3. Phillipson 21. Leicester 16. Griffiths

7. Posters 23. Law 12. Holmes
8. Belmore 13. Gessemschmitthaagen-Po

The lack of a real Druid midfield confused the Turorians, with emphasis placed solely on defence or attack. Therefore, at least in this match, the defence were pretty solid, while the Druid attacking play was some of the best we've seen them do. With goals from Law, Holmes, Belmore and Gessemschmitthaagen-Po, Turori were blown away.

"No wonder," Joint Manager Simon Greaves said afterwards, "If they've got Conference players in their team, then they're not going to have much chance against the cream of the Druid Premier League." Even when it was pointed out that their club, Vilitan Exiles, had won the Conference with a record points total, Greaves was still adament. "We thrashed them, you can't argue with that. We're not just the best team in Atlantian Oceania right now, but we must be one of the best in the world."

Apologies to those in other nations, but the comments made by Simon Greaves are not those of The Daily Druid. We still think that the Druids suck, even though they don't nowadays. All comments made by Greaves are extreme in that way, which makes him a good partener for Trevor Kallins, who is much more, possibly too, cautious.

Posted by: Starblaydia Aug 9 2004, 12:47 PM

Inside a lecture theatre of a top Starblaydi University, in a Biology class...

"Now, for Sensory Perception 101, here's the first goal, last night, against Sarzonia. Can we play that video, please?"

A scientific lackey plays the video on the big screen.

"Here we see our goal-scorer, Christian Kabeya-Mbaya, putting the ball past the Sarzonian goalkeeper, Troy Perkins, after around sixty minutes. A rudimentary anaylsis shows us that from his distance of around fourteen yards, and the speed of the ball in flight from Mister Kabeya-Mbaya's foot, the ball travels at around fifty miles per hour."

"Great first international goal for a thirty-one year-old three-tournament veteran, too." piped up a student.

"Indeed, young man. Now, we can see that reaction time is minimised by anticipation, but the 'keeper's muscles could not propel him in front of the ball travelling at that distance..."

Another scientific lecture, this time its Physics...

"Now, Ceri Salisbury has struck this ball, used in the Vilitan Leagues for the last year, perfectly from this free kick. He's hit it so that the spin provides both dip and curve. He's aimed it, initially, over the five-man wall. The spin has then taken over in-flight, swerving the ball to the left and down for it to sneak in under the bar an inside the post."

"For a Right-back that's pretty good, Professor."

"Indeed. And note an 80-minute old ball does not change its spatial characteristics from a new one, as Ceri has so nicely demonstrated."

Elsewhere in the same University, a football-mad Statistics Professor explains rudimentary table analysis by pointing to the current Group 2 table in the 2nd Atlantian Oceania Cup of Association Football...

"Now look, class, one last time." the professor said, bringing the the table and match schedule on his lap-top again, "Assuming the worst-case 0 points from 2 games scenario for us:"

CODE

Group 2 Fixtures:
Matchday 4
Turori v. Sarzonia - ( Crossroads Stadium ) -
Nojika v. Stralphi - ( Council Stadium ) -

Matchday 5
Sarzonia v. Nojika - ( Jlinal Cove Complex ) -
Turori v. Starblaydia - ( Crossroads Stadium ) -

Group 2 Table:
-- W D L F::A GD Pts
NEWI Cefn Druids 3 0 0 9 2 7 9
Starblaydia 2 1 0 6 3 3 7
Turori 1 0 2 6 6 0 3
Nojika 1 0 2 4 6 -2 3
------------------------------------------
Sarzonia 1 0 2 2 5 -3 3
Stralphi 0 1 2 3 8 -5 1

"Turori, Sarzonia and Nojika must all win 4 points from 2 matches to bump us down to 5th, this cannot happen as Sarzonia play Turori and Nojika. If they take 3 points off each other one can't qualify. Draws do them no favours either.

"For Sarzonia (on Matchday 4):
If Sarzonia Lose Vs Turori, Sarzonia can't qualify above Starblaydia, so Starblaydia are though.
If Sarzonia Draw Vs Turori, one or both of Sarzonia and Nojika can't qualify above Starblaydia, so Starblaydia are though.
If Sarzonia Win Vs Turori, Turori can't qualify above Starblaydia, so Starblaydia are though.

"For Turori (on Matchday 4):
If Turori Lose Vs Sarzonia, Turori can't qualify above Starblaydia, so Starblaydia are though.
If Turori Draw Vs Sarzonia, one or both of Sarzonia and Nojika can't qualify above Starblaydia, so Starblaydia are though.
If Turori Win Vs Sarzonia, Sarzonia can't qualify above Starblaydia, so Starblaydia are though.

"For Nojika (on Matchday 4):
If Nojika Lose Vs Stralphi, Nojika can't qualify above Starblaydia, so Starblaydia are though.
If Nokija Draw with Stralphi, Matchday 5 comes into play:
A Win Vs Sarzonia will mean Sarzonia can't qualify above Starblaydia, so Starblaydia are though.
A Draw Vs Sarzonia will mean Nojika can't qualify above Starblaydia, so Starblaydia are though.
A Loss Vs Sarzonia will mean Nojika can't qualify above Starblaydia, so Starblaydia are though.
If Nojika Win Vs Stralphi, one of Sarzonia and Nojika can't qualify above Starblaydia, so Starblaydia are though.

"So even if we're beaten 10-0 by NEWI and Turori, its impossbile for all three teams chasing us to qualify above us because they're all four points behind us and they can't all win four or more points each.

So one of the Eels, Stars and Dragons will fail to make it."

"So can we break out the kegs yet, Prof?" said one uncharacteristicly timid boozehound student,

"In what capacity?" said the Professor, looking over his spectacles, momentarily thrown by the question.

"In a... uh... celebratory capacity for Starblaydia making the next stage."

"Oh, my dear boy," said the Professor, a smile breaking out over his face, "you could have celebrated twice at the final whistle in the Sarzonia game. Once for the win and another for the..."

"BLADES RULLLLLE!" came the deafening yell from the student, taken up by many others in a two-tone chant.

"BLADES RULE! BLADES RULE! BLADES RULE! BLADES RULE!..."

Posted by: Lamoni Aug 9 2004, 03:01 PM

Lamoni Hawks win against Krytenia

Vilita (Nephi Times) -- With a shocking display of pure ferocity and determination, the Lamoni Hawks defeated Krytenia 3-2 today. All of Lamoni's goals were scored in the first half, with Martyn Hill scoring two minutes in, Matthew Chaney scoring 10 minutes in, and Joe Gilmore scoring 15 minutes into the game. Try as they might, Krytenia could not keep up; even with goals 20 minutes and 22 minutes into the game. The rest of the game turned into a defensive free for all, with Lamoni goalkeeper Ivan Bubov shutting down any Krytenian hopes for a victory. With this victory Lamoni moves to the number 4 spot in group one of AOCAF, and is in the unique position of having a 1-1-1 record.

When asked about the victory, Coach Matthews had this to say:

"I am very proud of everyone on the team today. We took our loss against Crystilakere like men, and bounced back to win. This win helps us in the standings, and we are also hoping for a win against Xile. If we can maintain this level of energy and determination, I don't think that anyone will be able to stop us."

In realted news, a statement was issued from the Lamoni Foreign Ministry that involves the assault of members of the Lamoni Hawks team in a bar in Vilita. The shockingly short statement reads like this: The Free Republic was shocked by the actions of Crystilakere citizens in provoking our national soccer team into a fight before their game against that country. We have full confidence that the offenders will recieve fair and just punishment for their actions under Crystilakere law. We recognize that not all Crystilakere citizens behave in such a manner.

Lamoni - 3
Krytenia - 2

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 9 2004, 03:55 PM

Blades cut Stars chances in two(-nil)

In the waning seconds of the Sarzonian national team's 2-0 loss to Starblaydia in the AOCAF tournament first round, Coach Bryan Marshall made a decision that was sure to rankle some players. At the very least, it may anger goalkeeper Troy Perkins.

Marshall announced after the match that veteran goalkeeper Kerry Tanner would make his second international start against Turori while Perkins would concentrate on the World Cup qualifying effort.

"I realize that the goals weren't Troy's fault," Marshall said. "I realize you have to give some credit to Starblaydia. But if making a change at goalkeeper awakens the team from its doldrums, that's what I'm going to do."

Perkins reportedly stormed into Marshall's office and the two spent "a good half hour screaming at each other," forward Anton Gregor said.

"I almost went in there with security. I thought things were going to get violent."

"That's just what happens when you have a competitive guy and Troy's very much a competitor," Marshall said. "No big deal. We said our peace and we're done."

"I was upset that I was getting pulled from the lineup," Perkins said. "I felt I earned my spot in the starting 11. Hopefully, I'll be able to earn it back."

Blades forward Christian Kabeya-Mbaya put his team ahead in the 60th minute with a one-time blast that beat Perkins. It was Kabeya-Mbaya's first international goal.

Defender Ceri Salisbury's 80th minute goal off a free kick following a Jeff Conley foul gave the Blades a two goal gap that forced Marshall to remove defender Mike Coyle and play a three forward formation. Even though the Stars generated more pressure, they couldn't dent the back of the net.

The Stars face the Turori Eels with their chances at qualifying hinging on getting at least four points in six matches. However, the Stars are going to try to play one match at a time.

"We have to think about getting three points in each of the next two matches but it starts with having to beat Turori," forward Brian Wilson said. "Getting shut out in two of three matches is not getting the job done."

Posted by: Pedriana Aug 9 2004, 05:13 PM

Two Losses, but Team Still Upbeat

Xile 2:1 Pedriana
Pedriana 0:1 Crystilakere

TUROKI CITY, Vilita -- After successfully drawing with Lamoni their first time out, the Pedriana Llamas were next set to face Xile at National View Stadium in Morata Valley. The team really didn't know anything about Xile's strategy and were therefore somewhat unprepared for the match, though the manager did have the foresight to take caution and field a slightly more defensive 5-3-2, with Antonio Pasana as an extra defender and center midfielder Wilber Reihe on the bench. However, the Xilian offense was still too much for the Llamas to handle, as J.C. Steich let two goals by while Pedriana's only goal came from Dong Khanponaphan late in the first half.

Final score:
Xile 2 (Liason 22, Tolerancia 63)
Pedriana 1 (Khanponaphan 41)

Next up, though, was a somewhat more familiar opponent: Crystilakere. No, we hadn't played them before, but at least some of the players had seen footage of Crystilakere World Cup qualifying matches during training, so they had a little bit of an idea what was in store for them. The team went back to the traditional 4-4-2, though Matchday 1 goalscorer Sol Svedine played in place of Otha Jalkut, who had injured his leg during training and is expected to be out for about five days.

For most of the match, neither team was able to get very far past midfield, as both defenses proved too strong. Daron Kusner nearly gave a goal away in the 15th minute when he took down Crystil striker Christian Benedetti on the edge of the box. The referee adjudged the tackle to have taken place just outside and therefore awarded only a free kick to Crystilakere (and a yellow to Kusner). Carlo Romano was unable to convert it.

Pedriana never really got any sort of decent attack going, and it was only the Llamas' defense that kept them from being totally humiliated. It did finally crack in the 65th minute when Benedetti found a hole between Kusner and Chong Imbimbo on the back line and sent a shot flying past goalkeeper J.C. Steich for the only goal of the game. Crystilakere would hold onto their 1-0 all the way to full time.

Final score:
Pedriana 0
Crystilakere 1 (Benedetti 65)

Most experts have already written off the next match, which is against the Vilita Jungle Cats at National View Stadium. With Matchday 5 against Krytenia not particularly promising either, it seems likely that the Llamas will not make it past the first round. But according to defender Raleigh Humbard, "All this pessimism is most surely unfounded. Our team most assuredly has the capability to excel in this esteemed tournament, and we will not hesitate to put on quite a show indeed."

Indeed.

Posted by: Krytenia Aug 10 2004, 01:11 PM

Send In The A-Team

Vilita 3
Krytenia 1

Krytenia 2
Lamoni 3

Mark Ono speaks:

"Our second string expected to lose against Vilita, however the loss to Lamoni was UNACCEPTABLE. We simply did not come out to play in the first half, and by the time we got in the dressing room at half time, we found our hopes of qualifying hanging inside-out on a rusty hook. Yes, Ace [Acienko Rimmer] got a couple. Yes, we nearly snatched our first point. But our first team is going to the World Cup Finals, for crying out loud! Does this mean nothing to these people? Someone get me some teacups!!!"

With the Celestials qualified for the World Cup, their big names will arrive in Vilita to salvage something, ANYTHING, in the games against Crystilakere and Pedriana. Six points could be enough to qualify for the last eight, where by these showings, they will be obliterated by NEWI Cefn Druids.

Nwoko ::: UPDATE

John Nwoko was released from hospital today, where he has been sent home to recouperate(sp?). Nwoko had suffered severe internal bleeding, a fractured arm, and concussion, however his voicebox is beleived to be intact.
Krytenian fans paid tribute to the commentator against Lamoni, chanting "We're Going Home In A Flying Ambulance" after going 3-0 down.

Posted by: Lamoni Aug 10 2004, 04:01 PM

Coach Matthews gathered the team in the large conference room of the hotel that the Lamoni national team was staying in.

"Okay guys," he said. "Watch this very carefully. This is a tape of Xile playing in their last game. See what they are doing here when they score? THAT is what we must gaurd against when we play them. Now, I know that Ivan is a good goalkeeper, but he's going to need some serious help to keep Xile from scoring. So, we are going to have two defensemen near our goal at all times to help Ivan. This will give us maximum flexibility, as well as keep the score down. Remember, we need to win against either Xile, or Vilita to get to the next round, and it will be easier to win against Xile than Vilita."

(the screen changes to the standings)

"Look at this. If we win against Xile, and Pedriana does not win twice, we WILL be in AT LEAST the 4th spot. It doesn't seem likely that Pedriana will win twice, but let's not take any chances. We NEED this win. Losing will be unacceptable. Okay guys, let's get out on the practice field."

Posted by: Vilita Aug 11 2004, 10:41 AM

Vilita smother Xilan surge

Yeaddin, Vilita - -The Vilita Jungle Cats rolled into the Owls National Stadium for the last time on the International stage to face off against Xile in an important AOCAF Group 1 fixture. a Xilan victory could have seen them top of the table, While the Jungle Cats were looking to avoid dropping out of the qualification zone by picking up 3 vital points in their AOCAF hopes. Owls National soon to be closed permantly in favor of Yeaddin Owls new home, the Lirai Asku Castle being completed for the Owls Season 4 campaign.

- - - - - - - Vilita brought the match to xile early, with Antonis Ratuva giving the hosts an early lead after some good work by Carmine Mbidzo, before Ratuva found himself free on the edge of the box for a short pass to be played to his patient foot. Xile would not be undone, however, fighting back through Kari Minoa just 5 minutes from half time, to send the match into the half on level terms. A half time substitution by the Jungle Cats saw Yeaddin Owls Calaesa Mitaroka on for Malovar Stokks, Mitraoka getting the final bow-out at the stadium where he made a name for himself. for the past 3 seasons. The match was fairly even and well spread out before Defender Esemar Aliana stepped up to a Mitaroka corner with 15 minutes to play to send the Jungle Cats spinning back up to second in the Group 1 table.

Vilita Jungle Cats (3-5-2) ::
[GK] Jimmy Kater, [D] Emarka Laniora, [D] Esemar Aliana, [D] David Leacock, [DM] Antonis Ratuva, [M] Marasent Sioane, [M] Tanner Nerni, [M] Malovar Stokks, [M] Sublé Tonic, [F] Carmine Mbidzo, [F] Hluali Mijatos
BENCH::
[F] Lorenzo Mumamba, [F] Jim Vella, [M] Calaesa Mitaroka, [M] Musa Nikiema, [U] Jaloey Afrikka, [D] Sibusiso Azaïez, [GK] Bryan 'Pop' Duiker

Posted by: Turori Aug 11 2004, 10:42 AM

Eels Obliterate Stralphi

Jlinal Cove Complex, Jlinal, Vilita - -The Turori Eels finally got on the AOCAF II raft with a 4-0 obliteration of newcomers Stralphi. The Dragons looked as if they may be a sleeper side in the opening two matches, but the Eels ended that myth impressively with their non-stop attack-a-thon that left the Dragons spitting in their own fire. Rikko Ambama netted two goals for the Eels in a first half flurry that saw 17 shots registered on target. On the opposite end, Turori keeper Trevor Ungata from NEWI Cefn Druids saw just 1 registered shot, a ball with the pace of a snail that Ungata collected easily and drilled immediately back upfield where Ambama latched on to score goal #2 for Turori.

- - - - - - - Then it was Cedniavella's Mika Sakatorra getting into the action, the 19 year old pouncing on a loose ball in the area 10 minutes into the second half to end all doubts about the outcome of the match. Tika Poloni worked well down the left handside having little trouble with the Stralphi Midfield, before an interesting substitution with 15 minutes to play. Mauritis Banda, Turori's 37 year old Baptism of Fire Cup hero was introduced for a final run out on the international stage, and there were no secrets passed when Makaus Likao was brought down in the area. Banda stepped up to cap off a memorable evening in the best way possible, slotting home Turori's 4th of the night to the delight of the Eels support.

Posted by: Vilita Aug 11 2004, 10:47 AM

Mané Handed First Start vs. Pedriana

Morata Valley, Vilita - -Impressive Makosile United Midfielder Teariki Mané has been named, for the first time, to the starting lineup for a Vilitan International side. Mané has been chosen in Central Midfield alongside Barcoenfuegos Marasent Sioane for the Jungle Cats AOCAF II matchday 4 clash with Pedriana. With The Jungle Cats already qualified for the quarter finals, coach Baron O'Toole arranged for a few of his u21 WC5 players without international experience to be brought into the AOCAF side. Mané will be joined by exciting Eastal Lunar striker Mauro Baraza. Baraza has found a place on the bench after seeing his side crowned Vilitan Declasse division Champions in season 3, earning them a ticket to the Vilitan Stellar for the first tim in club history. Another player who could make his Vilitan debut in the match is Colonial Sile's 29 year old Defensive Midfielder Nicoló Alicicco. Alicicco's inclusion comes at the request of Senior coach Helmut Vilkaus, worried that his side is short in the Defensive Midfield role, with only 21 year old Antonis Ratuva and 17 year old Lai Otieno, both named to the upcoming u21 WC5 roster, to fight for a spot on the Jungle Cats 23 man World Cup Finals Roster.

Travelling Squad for Pedriana (Starters, Subs)
Goalkeepers :: Bryan 'Pop' Duiker & Jimmy Kater
Defenders :: Jaloey Afrikka, Emarka Laniora, Esemar Aliana & Danilo Liguori
Midfielders :: Antonis Ratuva, Tanner Nerni, Teariki Mané, Marasent Sioane, Malovar Stokks, Sublé Tonic, Calaesa Mitaroka & Nicoló Alicicco
Forwards :: Serge DuPont, Carmine Mbidzo, Jan Christiansen & Mauro Baraza

Posted by: Xile Aug 11 2004, 12:56 PM

President Lauir had been too busy dealing with the assassination of his close friend, General Hadilla. Apparently, the team took this situation as a moment of weakness that could be exploited. They lost a match, and tied versus Lamoni. Not that their record so far was bad at 2-1-1, but it held the opportunity for failure. Failure, above all else, could not be tolerated.

So Adonis made it interesting. Anyone scoring a goal in the next match would be rewarded a 1 million mark compensation, 10,000 marks for a play deemed 'great' by sportscasters and the president's aides, and 1,000 marks for every blocked shot and save. He also decided to make it very clear that anyone seen as a 'burden' to the team would be executed. Since he had not been present recently, this burden had not yet been pinpointed. He deemed it a matter of time.

The Bullet Wounds were next to face Crystilakere, who had taken down the only team so far to defeat them, and were considered quite the underdogs against the more experienced team. Another million mark bonus would be added to everyone's paycheck if they beat this team. If they lost however, anyone considered to have held the team back would be executed immediately following their return to Xile. Adonis had every member of the team, as well as the coach, added to government payroll as 'propaganda supplies' and gave himself the freedom to tinker with their new paychecks accordingly.

After writing all of this down, so that his assistants would not forget to make appropriate changes in policy, he looked up to his Chief of Staff - Hector Millidon - and said, 'Give the recovering John Nwoko our regards. It seems as if he has become quite the mascot in his hometown.'

Hector walked out of the room perplexed, and hurried off to complete what he believed were his leader's wishes.

Posted by: Starblaydia Aug 11 2004, 03:09 PM

Druids walk all over Blades
Thrashed 3-0, but still certain of Qualification

As Trevor Belmore, Trevor Welsh and Trevor Trevor all put the ball beyond Boaz Myhill, who quite frankly had a shocker between the sticks, Starblaydia still cheered at the final whistle, as they and their fans had finally worked out that they were assured Qualification into the final stages of the Atlantian Oceania Cup of Association Football.

Minister of Sport and Double-Posts, Lord Rikaard Van Honjiik, was in Vilita to watch the match against Starblaydia's Bekk Lake neighbours and promptly declared he must be a jinx to the team, who have lost every time he's watched them play live. Which is just one time. Lord Van Honjiik claims not to be a great Football fan, but he certainly will be present at every one of the Ice Hockey matches in the Cherry Cup 5 Finals, which Starblaydia hope to win over the next few weeks.

Starblaydia never really had a chance against the Druids, who seem destined to win this competition, haing scored hatfuls of goals and conceded just two. Starblaydia have also not managed to even draw against NEWI Cefn Druids in two matches, the first of which in the Wooden Spoon-winning performances in the first International Recreation Competition.

For the next match Rene Griffiths, who conceded just six goals in Eastal Lunar's promotion to the Vilitan Stellar - Vilita's top division - last season, will be replacing the thirty-five year-old Myhill who has been making far too many mistakes lately.

With Ceri Salisbury and former team-mate Ahmed Ol-wairain having such a good time back in the land of their former clubs, it is believed Griffiths will also feel right at home playing in front of largely Vilitan crowds. So playing Turori in their next match may not be so much of a hardship.

Oh, and curse that Trevor character too, all of 'em.

Posted by: Lamoni Aug 11 2004, 03:43 PM

Lamoni ties with Xile

Vilita (Nephi Times) -- Lamoni qualified for the AOCAF playoffs today with a tie against Xile. Xile scored at 5 minutes, and 8 minutes, but apparently began to slack off when they noticed that their national leader was not attending the game. This allowed Paul Wade to score at 21 minutes, and again at 25 minutes. Fearing for their lives, Xile then woke up from their self imposed slumber, and tried to regain the initiative. Lamoni knew what to expect, and kept two defensemen near the goal at all times. This new defensive arrangement allowed Lamoni to blunt the Xilean scoring machine, and end the match with a tie.

Coach Matthews, when asked about the day's developements; said this: "Our guys held their own against Xile. For that, we can be grateful. Even if we lose against Vilita, we are garunteed to make it to the playoffs. This is a great victory for the Lamoni Hawks, and they know it."

Lamoni - 2
Xile - 2

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 11 2004, 04:00 PM

Stars on verge of quarters after squeaking past Eels

The Sarzonian national team was feeling a sense of urgency for two reasons. One, their World Cup qualifying chances looked bleak after being shut out against Tanah Burung and two, they looked flat in two of their three matches in the second AOCAF tournament. However, forward Brian Wilson atoned for inspiring Tanah Burung by scoring two goals to lead the Stars past Turori 2-1.

"Brian really felt bad about his comment; it wasn't intended to insult Tanah in any way," Coach Bryan Marshall said. "But the fallout from that gave him some extra motivation to do well and I guess he did his part."

The Stars drew first blood in the eighth minute when Wilson split the Eels defense and blasted a shot to the upper left corner.

"I usually shoot to my right since I'm a right-footed player," Wilson said. "I figured I might catch them off guard if I shot to the left. I guess I did."

Wilson gave the Stars a 2-0 lead from the spot in the 68th minute after forward Anton Gregor was caught by a cynical challenge in the penalty area.

Turori's Rikko Ambama continued his torrid play in the tournament by cutting the Sarzonian lead in half with a 76th minute strike that beat Kerry Tanner (five saves). The Stars defense stepped up and only allowed Turori 12 shots, with only six testing Tanner.

"This was only my second international match," Tanner said. "I have to make the most of my chances or I won't get many more of them. The defense played brilliantly in front of me."

The Stars play the group finale against Nojika, a team they drew against 2-2 during the first AOCAF tournament. This time, the Stars will have the added incentive of two Nojikan analysts predicting an easy win over the Stars.

Posted by: Pedriana Aug 11 2004, 06:21 PM

And That's a Wrap
Jungle Cats end Pedriana's AOCAF run

Vilita 5 - 0 PEDRIANA

The Pedriana Llamas left the field utterly dejected after being completely thrashed by the host nation in Matchday 4 of the AOCAF group stage. Despite the scoreline, goalkeeper J.C. Steich performed admirably, as the Jungle Cats could have easily sent a dozen goals into the net.

"It was simply a question of class," said Pedriana coach Olé Retaguma. "Vilita is a first-class team. We are a fourth-class team. All things considered, our boys did a great job out there."

While there is still one match remaining, the 0-1-3 Pedriana has officially been eliminated from the possibility of qualification. The final match against Krytenia at Owls National Stadium in Yeaddin will be "a chance to get the lads warmed up for the Baptism of Fire," says Retaguma.

Final score:
Vilita 5 (DuPont 19, 22, 62; Christiansen 40; Östling 79)
Pedriana 0

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 12 2004, 01:14 PM

Stars look for berth, revenge against Nojika
As the Sarzonian national team began its preparations for its final first round match against Nojika, the Stars took to the pitch with a lot more motivation than most sides do against a team that played it to a draw.

"Our lads aren't exactly brilliant on the practice pitch, but they really came out with a lot of fire," Coach Bryan Marshall said.

The team was still seething from missing out on the World Cup qualifying by two points and from Nojikan analyst predictions of an easy win over the Stars.

"They disrespected our defense and our entire team," defender Mike Coyle said. "Two-nil? Four-nil? Are you kidding me?"

"We expect Nojika to be a quality side, but those comments were just uncalled for," forward Brian Wilson said. "We've got a lot to play for, especially with our loss in the World Cup."

The Stars have had the Nojikan predictions on their clubhouse walls the entire length of the tournament and have had to wait to provide any payback.

"We can't get out there and just commit a lot of fouls and try to injure people," midfielder and team captain Bobby Convey said. "We have to be able to channel that anger and focus on the job at hand. We still have a lot to play for."

"The best revenge is to be ahead at the final whistle," midfielder Darwin Russell said. "That's what we're going to be going for."

Posted by: Nojika Aug 12 2004, 02:57 PM

Nojika Prepares for the Stars

Disregaurding the comments by their coaches, the players of the Nojikan national team seem to understand that this may be the most important game for them; this game will decide wether or not they advance to the finals.

"My boys know that they have a job to do here. They know that this game will decide their fate and will come back to haunt them in future matches against the Stars," head coach Randy Mulder said, "they've got a lot of weight on their shoulders to stand up and do what they do best. The can't come out easy and end hard, that's not the way this game is going to be; it's going to be a full 90 minute race to qualify."

In order for Nojika to qualify, they will need to beat the Stars or tie the Stars while Turori loses to Starblaydia. The outcome of Stralphi's game could also effect Nojika's qualification for the finals. Regaurdless of all the possibilities, Nojika knows the easiest way to qualify is to beat their opponents.

"We've got a lot of pride in the way we play this game and in our abilities. There is no doubt in our minds that we can't beat this team...but it's doubtful that we will do what our coaches said we could do, beat a team with a lot of skill 4-0? Not unless half their team is asleep during the match." said keeper Jessie Stange.

Nojika will have on it's starting line up it's best players, including rookies Shane Follett and Andrew Beat. Veteran starters will include midfielders Vito Denardis and Trenton Hegan as well as many other favorites.

When asked what the team has been doing to prepare for this match, foward Jerrel Alson said this; "We've been doing a lot of running. A lot," he laughed, "other than that though, our defence and midfielders have been doing a lot of one on one drills and the midfielders and forwards have been working a lot on finishing and control in the 18. The work we've done the past few days will surely help greatly in this final match."

It is believed that Nojika will play a strong defence oriented line up in hopes to destroy any hopes the Stars may have to score. But the Panthers won't give up their all-star forwards; Beat, Alson and Denardis will be up top together making opportunities for each other.

Formation:
1-3-3-1-2
Starters:
Keeper – Jessie Stange
Sweeper – Shane Follett
Stopper – Brice Delce
Left FB – Lance Greenlaw
Right FB – Coty Guthmiller
Center MF – Trenton Hegan
Left MF – Sam Lundin
Right MF – Carlos Amoa
Center MF – Vito Denardis
FWD – Jerrell Alson
FWD – Andrew Beat

Posted by: Lamoni Aug 12 2004, 03:56 PM

Calling another team meeting, Coach Matthews waited until all of the team had come in from practicing, and told them this:

"Regardless of what happens when we play Vilita, we will still make it to the AOCAF playoffs. However, if we do win against Vilita, we will be in a MUCH better position in the playoffs, not having to face the better teams until later on. That is why we are going to practice and study the moves of Vilita as if this was the German Blitz of London. We are going to keep the 2 defenders near the goal defense strategy, only this time, it will be a LOT more important to do so from start to finish. Ivan, you are going to have to make a hell of a lot of saves. The defensemen will do their best, but we have all seen what Vilita's team can do. Last but not least, the President of the Free Republic and I are VERY proud of how well you have done in this, our first international tournament. Remember how we were initially treated as pushovers? Well, I daresay that they don't think that about us anymore! Who's with me?!"

As he said this, the team cheered.

"All right guys," the coach said next, "let's get to work."

Witht that, the team was in for LOTS of practice on how to take advantage of Vilita's weak points.

Posted by: Krytenia Aug 12 2004, 05:54 PM

Nwoko Killed In Own Home

Crystilakere 1
Krytenia 1

Krytenia's one-all draw with Crystilakere was overshadowed last night by news of events in the Krytenian city of Aigburth. Popular commentator John Nwoko, on sabattical after being assaulted by Xilian thugs, was found dead in his house. He was 58.

Nwoko had, it transpired, been shot twice, once in the head and once in the chest. DNA testing on hair cells found at the scene place a Xilian national working in Krytenia at Nwoko's home. The Xilian, who for legal reasons has not been named, has been charged with first-degree murder and is currently on remand, awaiting trial.

The Krytenian Government has expressed its deepest sympathy to Nwoko's family. John Nwoko leaves a wife, fifty-four year old fashion designer Estelle, and two children. Charles, 34, is a pilot with the KAF, while James, 29, is a science teacher at his father's old school.

Posted by: NEWI Cefn Druids Aug 13 2004, 09:38 AM

The Daily Druid

GROUP WON, QUARTERS BEACON
Wayne Ottgunn-Irwin reeports on the Druids' AOCAF Cup Progress.

Three more games, three more victories for the Druids here in Vilita, as they have eased through to the quarter finals of teh AOCAF Cup. Again, in all three games, the Druids used unconventional starting line ups in bids to throw their opponents of their game, and it has worked well.

Against Nojika, the Druids played a formation that could probalbly be best described as 1-2-1-2-1-2-1, but despite an apparent lack of width, the Druids came through relatively unscathed, with a 3-1 victory.

After playing as few Trevors as possible in their first match, against Starblaydia, there were eleven Trevors on the pich, while the substitutes used were all also called Trevor. Again, it paid off, with Trevors Belmore, Welsh and Trevor all scoring.

With the group already won, the Druids played Stralphi without a defence. Even the goalkeeper was sacrificed, as the Druids tinkered with a 0-6-5 formation, with Juan Pablo Trevor officially named as goalkeeper, but rarely entering his own penalty area. In the end, the game finished 4-2 to the Druids, but it was one of the most entertaining (and when Stralphi attacked, sometimes comical) games so far in the championships.

In their current form, the Druids look like being favourites to retain their title, but there are still a fair few good teams left in the draw, so this tournament is by no means over yet...

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 13 2004, 12:05 PM

'Supremely motivated' Stars earn revenge, berth 3-0

The Sarzonian national team used the motivation from comments made by Nojikan coaches as fuel and got a hat trick from forward Brian Wilson en route to an easy 3-0 win to advance the Stars to second place in Group B. The Stars will get set to face Xile in the quarterfinal matchup.

"We were supremely motivated by those insults from the Nojikans," Wilson said. "We wanted to go out there and show them we can play football with the best of them."

The Stars dominated the match, almost from the opening kickoff. Wilson opened the scoring in the sixth minute with a deft run through the Nojikan defense and faked sweeper Shane Follett out of position and blasted a shot past goalkeeper Jessie Strange.

"I wasn't really trying to think about putting a move on [Follett]," Wilson said. "I just let my instinct take over. I probably couldn't repeat that move if I tried."

A perfectly placed corner kick by midfielder Darwin Russell led to a Wilson header for the second goal in the 23rd minute.

"I just tried to send it into the area and hoped one of our guys could get to it," Russell said. "I was glad to see Willsie sky up there and get it before Strange could."

Wilson completed the scoring in the 38th minute from the spot when Russell faked Nojikan stopper Brice Delce out of his shoes and Delce was forced to foul him. The Stars ended up playing 59 minutes in Nojika's end.

"That was about as complete a match as we've played outside of the Baptism of Fire Cup," Coach Bryan Marshall said. "We're going to need another outstanding effort to beat Xile."

The Stars said that playing in the quarterfinals would be plenty of motivation against Xile, but a team source who spoke on condition of anonymity said that previous hostility between Sarzonia and Xile "might play a role" in the team's motivation for the quarterfinal match.

"I don't think it's any secret that there's no love lost there," the source said. "If Nojika thought we were motivated before, we'll be even more motivated now."

Posted by: Starblaydia Aug 13 2004, 12:14 PM

First Footballing Quarter Finals
Blades ready for Crystilakere test

With Ahemed Ol-wairain and Simon Hill scoring their third and first goals of the tournament respectively, Starblaydia drew 2-2 with Turori, ready to meet the Crystils.

Recent history suggests that Crystilakere will come out on top, as in the previous meeting in the International Recreational Competition, Crystilakere came out 4-0 winners, racing into the lead and cantering to an easy victory. Starblaydia won 8 point in Group 2 in the AOCAF, compared to Crystilakere's 10 points

We're not expecting it to be easy against the second-tiered team, but hen again Starblaydia have already defeated Second-Tiered team Sarzonia 2-0, so rank will certainly not be the only factor in determining the outcome of this match.

Team for the Crystilakere match, barring injury.

Starting XI:
GK, 12, Rene Griffiths
RB, 3, Ceri Salisbury
CB, 13, Elliot Ward
CB, 5, Stephen Asante
LB, 6, Vladimir Tsarev
DM, 2, Philip Ifil
RM, 11, Boomer Moore
AM, 7, Simon Hill
LM, 8, Steve Owens
CF, 9, Guylain N'Dumbu-Nsungu
CF, 17, Ahmed Ol-wairain
-----------------------------
Substitutes:
GK, 1, Boaz Myhill
GK, 18, Tim Deacy
DM, 4, Enrico Bigon
CM, 14, Matthew Young
AM, 15, Olaf Vikerman
CF, 10, Christian Kabeya-Mbaya
CF, 16, Samir Ben Said Nasri

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 13 2004, 03:12 PM

Stars look to 'wound' Xile

The Sarzonian national team began the first stages of their preparations against Xile with notable chips on their shoulders. They were getting set to face Xile, a country that Sarzonians have developed extreme dislike towards.

"I don't think I can say anything about Xile that can be printed in a family newspaper," a team source said on condition of anonymity. "Let's just say we have plenty of incentive to win this next match."

The Stars noted the death of Krytenian analyst John Nwoko with a moment of silence before practice began, then began a "fiery" practice, Coach Bryan Marshall said.

"I've never seen the lads so focused out there," Marshall said. "I'd pity anyone who put on a Bullet Wounds' kit the way the lads are going out there today. But kickoff will be a different matter."

"We have to make sure that we stay focused on football," midfielder and team captain Bobby Convey said. "We can't let our hatred toward anyone affect what we do as a football team. The moment we start letting ourselves get away from Sarzonian football is the moment we start conceding goals or finding ourselves out of position."

Posted by: Lamoni Aug 14 2004, 04:28 PM

Lamoni loses to Vilita, retains playoff berth

Vilita (Nephi Times) -- In a game to determine Lamoni's position in the AOCAF playoffs, Vilita defeated Lamoni 2-1. Vilita scored at 50 minutes, and 78 minutes. Lamoni's lone score came in the first half of the game. The goal was scored by Jason Dreweck.

Lamoni faces Vilita again in the playoffs, and will be seeking revenge for the loss.

Posted by: Vilita Aug 15 2004, 11:30 AM

New-Look Vilita Edge Out Lamoni

Turoki National Stadium, Turoki City, Vilita::
user posted image

------------Under 21 Newcomers Christos Tchami of Cedniavella and Mauro Baraza of Newly-Promoted Stellar Division side Eastal Lunar made their Jungle-Cat Debuts against Lamoni in the Final AOCAF II Group A Qualifying Matchup. Joining them on the bench would be Kirota Locals youth prospect Jeremie Emeka, The first player ever called for International Duty from the Kirota region, and joining Defensive Midfield prospect Lai Otieno as the only recognized Vilitan-Based internationals playing outside the Top Two Tiers of the Vilitan League. Nicoló Alicicco's inclusion behind the midfield suggests that the 29 year old Colonial Sile midfielder may be set for a shocking call into the 23-Man World Cup Finals Squad. Lamoni started the match well and was able to score early against the AOCAF II hosts. The crowd at Turoki National was left in silence when the Falcons took the lead 10 minutes from the interval.

------------The Jungle Cats made one Change at the half, with Debutant Tchami being replaced with fellow u21 Newcomer Emeka, in what appeared to be a pre-determined substitution. The change paid instant dividends for the hosts when Emeka worked well down the left, getting a cross deep into the Lamoni area which Mauro Baraza emphatically powered into the back of the net, scoring on his debut and pushing well for a place in the u21 starting lineup. 15 Minutes later, The Jungle Cats would make another substitution, with Alicicco making way for National Team Captain Santo Kecker, looking for 25 minutes of fitness to prepare for the World Cup Finals. Kecker proved his talent well on a 78th minute free kick, leaving the Lamoni keeper no chance and sending the Jungle Cats into the AOCAF II Quarter Finals on a 4 match winning streak. The Jungle Cats Opponent in the Quarter Finals will once again be Lamoni, who despite the loss were able to hold on to the 4th position in Group A over Krytenia.

Goalkeepers :: Bryan 'Pop' Duiker & Rory Issah
Defenders :: Emarka Laniora, Danilo Liguori, Christos Tchami & Esemar Aliana
Midfielders :: Nicoló Alicicco, Umberto Melli, Malovar Stokks, Tanner Nerni, Alexander Östling, Jeremie Emeka, Santo Kecker & Musa Nikiema
Forwards :: Serge DuPont, Mauro Baraza, Lorenzo Mumamba & Germán Salomón

Posted by: Xile Aug 15 2004, 12:59 PM

The team sat around the room in shock. Their capitol had been bombed while they were in Vilita, and they knew of it only on news reports flashing across screens. Muffles remarks were made across the room.

Coach Maxelli stood up and walked to the middle of the room to address the team. "Another obstacle has been put before us men. We have to rid this of our minds and take the fight to the feild. I know you don't want to hear this, but atleast we won't have the government gunning for us anymore. Some of you might see that as a reason to slack off, but you have to realize how great of an opportunity you have hear. We can give something to our people now. We can give them hope." Not quite sure how to finish his speech, and feeling quite uncomfortable giving it, he decided to leave the players to themselves. Before he walked out and finished his night off at the bar he remarked, "Atleast kick Sarzonia's ass. I hate those bastards."

The team roared in laughter and for a moment forgot thier troubles. Cy Maxelli left the room while the team discussed the upcoming events.

Posted by: NEWI Cefn Druids Aug 16 2004, 06:37 AM

The Daily Druid

POSTERS TO MISS REST OF AOCAF
By Wayne Ottgunn-Irwin

NEWI Cefn Druids winger Bill Posters is out of the rest of the AOCAF Cup due to his ongoing trial for the murder of former Druids boss Tim Welsh. Posters, who was playing at the time of the shooting, seems an unlikely suspect for the crime, but the Cefn-Mawr police must have reason to believe it was Posters, otherwise they wouldn't have taken things this far.

Trevor Welsh, son of the late ex-manager and team mate of Posters, said, "I know I should be angry that Bill has been taken to court over such an issue, but it's all come as a bit of a surprise. Bill is one of my best friends in hte squad, and got on very well with my dad, I'd be very surprised if he did it, especially as he was on the pitch with me at the time, but it's down to the courts now.

Posted by: Crystilakere Aug 16 2004, 02:12 PM

Crystils prepare for Starblaydia

The Crystilakere National Team arrived in Crosaibi knowing that they must perform better than they did in their last match against Xile if they are to advance past Starblaydia into the Semi-Finals of AOCAF II. The Crystils sat pretty on the top of Group A after a Matchday 1 victory over Rivals Vilita. A draw with eliminated Krytenia on matchday 4 kept the Crystils from clinching the top spot in the group, and with the Jungle Cats sitting one point behind, the Crystils broke down in the 0-1 defeat to Xile. If it were not for Emmilliano Addis' penalty save in the 78th minute of the Xile match, The Crystils may have been as low as third in the table, edging out their South-Western Counterparts only by goal differential.

Starblaydia is relatively new to the Footballing world, but the Crystils will not be taking them for granted. Natives of two World-Cup Qualifying efforts, Starblaydia is competing in it's first AOCAF tournament. The 2-2 draw on the last matchday with Turori was enough to secure Starblaydia's 3rd place in Group B. If the four top seeds all win their matches, than the Crystils would once again meet Rivals Vilita in the semi-finals. However, If either NEWI-Cefn Druids or Vilita is upset in the Quarter Finals, than a Crystils Victory would likely see them up against the Winner of the Xile v. Sarzonia matchup.

Posted by: Starblaydia Aug 16 2004, 05:25 PM

Starblaydia shot down by Crystils
Ol-wairain gets fourth in six games but to no avail

As Ahmed Ol-wairain dispatched a second-half penalty, Starblaydia were left with a mere consolation goal and stared defeat in the face in the AOCAF Quarter Finals. Starblaydia were left rueing the oppurtunity to have brought a ful-strength squad to this tournament, but glad of the experience for the not-so-big names of the squad, which can only strengthen the national game. The 'discoveries' and 'revelations' of Ahmed Ol-wairain, Ceri Salisbury, Rene Griffiths and even young Simon Hill will all add to the strength of future Starblaydia squads.

Crystilakere now go on to face hosts Vilita in the Semis, while Xile play NEWI Cefn Druids.

This reporter, however, is off to bed, but there's always the next tournament! And other beds!

Posted by: Lamoni Aug 16 2004, 07:54 PM

Lamoni looses in playoffs to Vilita

Vilita (Nephi Times) -- With today's 0-3 loss to Vilita, Lamoni has been knocked out of AOCAF. Posting a record of 1-2-3, Lamoni is believed to have done well for a first time team. Coach Matthews has promised that the next Lamoni team will perform even better, as the measure of many of the region's teams has now been taken, and the Lamoni national team now has international experience. The Hawks will return to Lamoni in 2 days.

Lamoni - 0
Vilita - 3

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 17 2004, 12:58 AM

'Grudge match' goes to Stars

The Sarzonian national team and Xile's national side played 88 minutes of nip and tuck football, and neither team could gain much of an advantage for long. However, midfielder Darwin Russell converted a penalty kick when forward Brian Wilson was fouled in the area and the Stars held on for a 2-1 win.

"Normally, Willsie takes that penalty but he was the one fouled this time," Coach Bryan Marshall said. "It was a brutal foul, like most of the fouls during this match, but Darwin did well to convert."

Each of the three goals came from the penalty spot as the teams combined for 43 fouls, 21 of them by the Stars. The countries' dislike for each other was well-documented before the match and was demonstrated during the match.

"We're always glad to win any match," Russell said. "But we're especially glad to beat those guys. We hate them and it showed out there."

"It was a grudge match, plain and simple," Wilson said. "They've said some nasty things about Sarzonia in the past and it was time to pay them back."

Anyone who doubted the hostility between the two countries before the match saw ample evidence when the team captains refused to shake hands before kickoff, choosing instead to stare each other down. The Stars drew a national record five yellow cards during the match, and after the match, Xile refused to congratulate the Stars.

"We're not surprised," midfielder and team captain Bobby Convey said, but added: "I don't think we would have congratulated them if they had won."

The Stars face the NEWI Cefn Druids in a rematch of the tournament opener for the Stars. The Druids beat the Stars 2-0 as Sarzonia's strategy to yell "Trevor" at random moments backfired due to a lineup change.

"We'll see who they start," Marshall said. "If they start a lineup of mostly players named Trevor, we won't rule out any options. But we need to be able to base our strategy on something other than a gimmick. I'm going to have the coaches holed up with Darwin to find out their tendencies and use his knowledge of the Druid players to our advantage."

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 17 2004, 01:01 AM

QUOTE (Starblaydia @ Aug 16 2004, 05:25 PM)

while Xile play NEWI Cefn Druids.

*AHEM*

Posted by: Starblaydia Aug 17 2004, 03:39 AM

QUOTE (Sarzonia @ Aug 17 2004, 01:01 AM)

QUOTE (Starblaydia @ Aug 16 2004, 05:25 PM)

while Xile play NEWI Cefn Druids.

*AHEM*

Well it just goes to show you can't trust Starblaydi Information Broadcasts

Oops

Posted by: NEWI Cefn Druids Aug 17 2004, 08:05 AM

The Daily Druid

NEWI IN SEMIS AGAIN
Wayne Ottgunn-Irwin on NEWI Cefn Druids 2 Turori 1

An under strength Druidish team beat Turori to reach the AOCAF semi finals for the second time in a row. However, for the first time in the tournament, the side was not one of Simon Greaves' comical plots to confue the opposition, but as a result of the ongoing trial of Druids winger Bill Posters. For this match, the Druids were forced into fielding their second choice eleven, with only two substitutes on the bench.

Luckiny, the makeshift Druids had enough to overcome Turori. Goals from youngsters Trevor Law and Trevor McDonald saw off a plucky Turori side, as they just didn't have the quality that the Druids players had, even the second team. However, most of the first team (apart from Bill Posters) will be back in time for their match against Sarzonia in the semi-finals.

Final score:
NEWI Cefn Druids 2 [Law 11, T. McDonald 76]
Turori 0

NATIONAL IDENTITY CONFIRMED
By Ian Question Mark.

After years of not having a proper word to call someone from NEWI Cefn Druids (other than Trevor), the government of NEWI Cefn Druids have made it official that those from NEWI Cefn Druids, and, indeed, Flexsys Cefn Druids, shall be officially Druidish.

"Being just a Druid was kinda... well... boring. It made us less nation-like ithout an ending. Now we hope to clear up any confusion, we are not Druidian or Druidi or just plain old Druid. Druidish it is. Unless anyone says anything else."

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 17 2004, 09:27 AM

Stars set for rematch against Druids

Fresh off their revenge match against Xile, the Sarzonian national team began preparations for a rematch against Group B champions NEWI Cefn Druids, who beat the Stars 2-0 in the opener of the AOCAF II tournament.

The Stars tried to confuse the Druids by yelling "Trevor" at key moments in the match, but it backfired when coach Simon Greaves started only one player with the first name Trevor. This time, the Stars will look to more conventional ways to beat their Druidish opponents.

"We believe we learned a couple of things from our 2-0 loss to them," Coach Bryan Marshall said. "Plus, Darwin [Russell, a midfielder who plays in the Druidish top league] has been feeding us information about their players, some of whom he plays with or against in their league. That can only help us."

"I've been reminding the lads about tendencies, strengths and weaknesses of all the Druid players," Russell said. "Since they played a second team, I've given them as much as I could about every player they could conceivably play. We have to be ready for anything, including a start from Bill Posters."

Posters is currently standing trial for the murder of former Druidish great Tim Welsh. However, the Stars have decided not to leave any stone unturned in their preparation.

"We're going to do everything we can to be ready for this match," forward Brian Wilson said. "We weren't ready the last time. We're not going to make that same mistake again."

The Stars hardly need any extra motivation to play their match besides their 2-0 "embarrassment," as midfielder and team captain Bobby Convey called it. But they decided to use pregame comments from Druid analysts as additional fuel.

"They disrespected us and said we'd be fodder for them," defender Mike Coyle said. "Even though they were referring to the first match, that kind of comment never completely goes away. We'll be ready to play them this time."

Posted by: Vilita Aug 18 2004, 08:29 AM

Rejuvinated Linuao Leads Regional Cats

The Shultis, Lonngeylin, Vilita - -37 Year Old Goalkeeper Jutaoi Linuao was rewarded for years of service the the Vilitan National Team with a starting role against Lamoni in the AOCAF Quarter Finals. The 37 year old had never before been selected for a Non-Masters Vilitan Side. Interim coach Baron O'Toole indicated that with Rory Issah concentrating on the Masters, Massimo Corsi on the World Cup and Jimmy Kater on the Under-21's, Bryan 'Pop' Duiker's thigh injury was enough to keep him out, O'Toole more than happy to hand the role to his good friend Linuao. Linuao repayed his country by shutting out the newly elected Delegate Nation throughout the 90 minutes and sending his team through to the AOCAF Semi Finals against Rivals Crystilakere.

----------------The First 45 minutes were pretty even in front of 65,000 at The Shultis, with both teams getting 3 shots on target. It looked to end scoreless before Hluali Mijatos shone through for his second career regional goal just as the half time whistle went. Coach O'Toole inserted himself at the start of the second half, being joined by the experienced Jim Vella, with Umberto Melli and Goalscorer Mijatos stepping off the field. It took the Regional Cats just 3 minutes in to double their advantage, Vella sending Carmine Mbidzo one on one with the keeper, and the Cednia Beach Striker made no mistake with his second goal of the competition. The introduction of free kick specialist Nigel Chapman on 65 minutes gave instant rewards, with the 31 year old Yeaddin Owls Midfielder sending a 30 yard free kick into the area, where Mbidzo rose well to beat the keeper and head home the third and decisive Vilitan Goal.

Vilita Jungle Cats (3-5-2) ::
[GK] Jutaoi Linuao, [D] Esemar Aliana, [D] Sibusiso Azaïez, [D] Ricky Ezis, [DM] Nicoló Alicicco, [M] Umberto Melli, [M] Marasent Sioane, [M] Tanner Nerni, [M] Teariki Mané, [F] Hluali Mijatos, [F] Carmine Mbidzo
BENCH::
[F] Jim Vella, [F] Mauro Baraza, [M] Baron O'Toole, [M] Nigel Chapman, [U] Alexander Östling, [D] Jaloey Afrikka, [GK] Jimmy Kater

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 18 2004, 09:57 AM

Stars returned to consolation match, 1-0

The Sarzonian national team swore it would be ready to play the NEWI Cefn Druids. They said they would not be flat-footed against the team that was the best in the group and was defending their AOCAF tournament title. They were right, but the Druids were a little bit better, getting a goal against the run of play from Trevor Law in the 87th minute to send the Druids through to the finals.

"That was heartbreaking," Coach Bryan Marshall said. "We played a great game of football. More importantly, we played Sarzonian football, but give that Druidish team credit. They are deserving of their AOCAF success."

The Stars applied constant pressure almost from the opening kickoff and were unlucky several times. Their best chance in the first half came off the boot of reserve forward Barry Alphonso, who came in when forward Brian Wilson took a shot off his right shin and hobbled off the pitch in the 33rd minute. Alphonso's right-booted drive just hit off the crossbar and was cleared out of danger after a brief scramble.

The Stars continued to apply pressure as the team shifted to a 3-5-2 formation with midfielder Antonio Bresco coming in for defender Bryson Juergens. The change in formation led to chances by Trevor McDonald in the 63rd minute that goalkeeper Kerry Tanner was able to clear toward the defense.

Law stole the ball from midfielder Jeff Conley and split a surprised Stars defense to drill a shot past a diving Tanner into the top left corner of the net. Marshall then substituted Tanner for goalkeeper Troy Perkins and sent him forward in a desperate attempt to score the equalizer, but the final whistle sounded just as Perkins fired a shot that hit the woodwork. Marshall said Perkins would start in the third place game against Vilita.

"I'd like to have that goal back," Tanner said. "Other than that, we played a great match but it wasn't to be. We're going to have to focus on Vilita and beat them for third place."

"I feel bad for Kerry, but I'm glad to get another chance to get into the starting 11," Perkins said.

"I'd like to stay in there, but it's the coach's decision and I respect it," Tanner said.

Posted by: NEWI Cefn Druids Aug 18 2004, 10:51 AM

The Daily Druid

STARSTRUCK
Wayne Ottgunn-Irwin on NEWI Cefn Druids 1 Sarzonia 0

The Druids are getting good at this. Playing out 85 plus minutes of games, then scoring late goals against opponents that consider themselves unlucky. The most famous time they did it, of course, was in the final of this competition last time, when Liam Gessemschmitthaagen-Po sealed victory with just seconds to spare. It was similar again here tonight, this time bright young thing Trevor Law breaking away with just a few minutes left to stun the Stars

Afterwards, joint-manager Trevor Kallins said, "We had a full strength team out there today, and we were second best for the most part. But we're through, and we wish the Stars all the best with their third placed match and Cup of Harmony campaign. They've come on a lot in the last four years, and if there's a side I'd be least happy to get one over, it would be them."

Final score:
NEWI Cefn Druids 1 [Law 87]
Sarzonia 0

Posted by: Crystilakere Aug 18 2004, 01:18 PM

Crystils Prepare for AOCAF Final

The Crystilakere National team has put it's Cup of Harmony and Under 21 Championship Campaigns in the back seat after unexpectedly overcoming Regional Giants Vilita for the second time in the competition, and the second time ever. This time the Crystils needed Penalty Kicks to overcome their arch rivals. The match would go down as the most exciting ever in the history of the two teams.

Vilita took an early lead when Jim Vella scored after a defensive error by the usually stout Filippo Ferraro. Ferraro made amends for his mistake when he scored off a Darren Whelen corner kick 15 minutes later. The score would be 1-1 going into half time.

The Crystils started out strong in the second half, and soon starlet Toader Pold would put Crystilakere in front with a great goal which left the underperforming Jungle Cats in shock. Vilita had no choice but to make a substitution, sending in veteran star player Jonathon Stott for one of the more inexperienced players. The Crystils were unable to contain Stott, and with 10 minutes to play, they finally gave in. Stotts cross into the area was met by Serge DuPont who returned the scores to 2-2 where they would end after 90 minutes.

The Crystils again took the lead just moments into the second period of added time, after a goalless first 15 minutes. Carlo Romano was the hero of the moment for the Crystils giving them the lead with just over 10 minutes left in added time. Vilita would strike back with Strike FC forward Serge DuPont again evening the scores at 3-3. This goal would set up a tense Penalty Kick shootout, the first ever between the two rival Nations.

Danilo Liguori of Vilita would be the first to take the Penalty kick. Liguori's kick was tipped onto the bar by Emmiliano Addis, who pointed to the sky after denying the first Vilitan attempt. Filippo Ferraro then stepped up and converted easily sending the Vilitan keeper the wrong way. Calaesa Mitaroka, Marasent Sioane and Jonathon Stott all successfully converted for Vilita, while Carlo Romano, Giuseppe Zucco and Darren Whelan all converted for Crystilakere, putting the score at 4-3 in favor of the Crystils.

Jan Christiansen stepped up for Vilita, knowin that he would have to convert his penalty and hope that Donato Arrigoni missed for the Crystils in order to keep the Jungle Kitties in the match. Christiansen shot was parried, bobbled then clutched in by Crystili hero Addis who pumped his fists in the air as the Crystilakere support stormed the field.

Crystilakere 3-3 Vilita (AET)*
*Crystilakere Win 4-3 on Penalties

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 18 2004, 08:11 PM

Stars prepare for 'Cats, 3rd place match

The Sarzonian national team would prefer not to be here. They were tantalizingly close to overtime against a NEWI Cefn Druids side that is the defending AOCAF tournament champions, but a Trevor Law goal has the team preparing for another third place match, against the Vilita Jungle Cats.

"We're going to fight it out," Coach Bryan Marshall said. "Vilita's a tough side as they've proven all along in international play. They're leading their World Cup group and they have a strong chance to go through to the next round, and they're the 15th ranked team in the world, so this will be no pushover."

The Stars last match against the Jungle Cats ended in golden goal overtime with Vilita scoring just minutes before penalty kicks. However, many observers point to that loss as the match that propelled the Stars from being a "ragtag bunch of weekend footballers," to a legitimate national team.

"That comment in the newpapers made us angry," forward Brian Wilson said. "We blew it up and we plastered it all over the locker room walls."

"The team was organized at the last moment," the columnist who wrote those words said in a recent interview. "The league was barely off the ground and we were suddenly trying to create a national team from scratch.

"The team has been an incredible success, there's no doubt about it," he continued. "They have beaten some outstanding sides and they made their presence felt in every tournament they've played in. They're definitely not a ragtag bunch of weekend footballers now," he said with a grin. "I'll gladly eat those words."

The Stars were holed up in their training facility watching tapes of recent Vilita matches trying to gain an edge on their competition.

"We're going to be playing in front of a hostile crowd, no doubt about it," said midfielder Darwin Russell. "We're probably the only other national side who's familiar with Vilita. If we were playing any other team, we might have home field."

The Stars announced after the loss to the Druids that goalkeeper Troy Perkins would regain his starting assignment for the team and Kerry Tanner would return to the bench.

"Nothing against Kerry, he did a great job for us, but Troy's the future of this team," defender Mike Coyle said. "He had one bad match the entire time he's played for the national side and he got benched? I didn't agree with the move, but that's the coach's decision."

"I'd feel a lot more comfortable turning to Kerry now that he has some national team playing experience," assistant coach Barry Owens said. "Before this tournament, if Troy had gotten hurt, we'd be panicking. Now we know we have two world class goalkeepers. The future of Sarzonian football is bright."

Sarzonian fans and team officials hope the future begins Friday.

Posted by: Vilita Aug 18 2004, 11:01 PM

Vilita Issue Sarzonia Warning

------------- The Vilita Jungle Cats will be determined to take something out of the second AOCAF Tournament, after a dissapointing Penalty Shootout defeat at the hands of rivals Crystilakere. The Jungle Cats have met up with the stars only once in the past, in the Semi Final round of AOCAF I. Vilita came out on top that day in extra time before losing to NEWI Cefn Druids in the Final. The Druids have once again made it to the final, but it will be the Jungle Cats rival, Crystilakere, meeting up with them at the Tivali Ring Stadium for the final. Vilita and Sarzonia will square off at the brand new Lirai Asku Castle in Yeaddin, the first Major competition to be held at the Castle.

..............Coach Baron O' Toole has left himself out of the squad for the third placed playoff, and also made a few surprising choices in his roster. Goalkeeper Bryan 'Pop' Duiker returns from injury to take his place in the starting 11, with the experienced Rory Issah on the bench. David Leacock makes his first international appearance since Under21 World Cup III, and he is joined by inexperienced Christos Tchami from Turori's Non-League Cedniavella. Under-18 Prospects Teariki Mané from Makosile and Sublé Tonic from FC Almintora are selected in midfield. No Surprises, however, with Hluali Mijatos and Serge DuPont, Vilitas top scorers so far in the competition, selected up front.

..............After Being questioned on his reasoning of fielding such an inexperienced side, O'Toole expressed that while Sarzonia were certainly an improving team on the international stage, even their best lineup on any given day could not compete with a third-string Jungle Cat roster. The Vilitan Regional side, hit hard by players such as Goalkeeper Jimmy Kater committed to Under-21 competition, and most of the Senior Squad now staying in Rejistania throughout the World Cup Finals, now contains no less than 3 players who are currently contracted to clubs in the Vilitan Non-League system. O'Toole is sure of Victory however, stating that not only did he expect his inexperienced side to come out on top, but he did not even expect it to be close, already preparing his half time substitutions as he feels the match will be long over by that point.

Goalkeepers :: Bryan 'Pop' Duiker & Rory Issah
Defenders :: Sibusiso Azaïez, David Leacock, Christos Tchami & Emarka Laniora
Midfielders :: Nicoló Alicicco, Malovar Stokks, Teariki Mané, Alexander Östling, Sublé Tonic, Umberto Melli, Jeremie Emeka & Calaesa Mitaroka
Forwards :: Hluali Mijatos, Serge DuPont, Lorenzo Mumamba & Carmine Mbidzo

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 19 2004, 08:51 AM

Stars turn angry, training ramps up

A match that was originally going to be merely another third place match for the Sarzonian national team against a Vilitan side that was sending many of its third-string players took on a much darker tone when the team was informed of Coach Baron O'Toole's comments about the team.

"Even [Sarzonia's] best lineup on any given day could not compete with a third-string Jungle Cat roster," Toole was quoted as saying in a Vilitan newspaper.

"Excuse me," midfielder Jeff Conley asked when informed of the comment. "We faced a first-choice Vilitan side during the first AOCAF tourament and took them to golden goal overtime. Now they have the nerve to say that about us?"

Coach Bryan Marshall said that the day's training session was "on a par with the session before the Bullet Wounds' match.

"I didn't think we'd ever be as angry against any opponent as we were against Xile. This at least matches it. The lads were really intense out there."

Forward Brian Wilson, still nursing what has been diagnosed as a hamstring strain, was held out of the training session. He was subsituted for after 30 minutes of the Cup of Harmony match against Kerla, partly to protect him from further injury and partly to ready him for the match against Vilita.

"We're considering giving Barry Alphonso a start there," coach Dave Wilson said before O'Toole's comments were made public. "Bri may come in during the second half."

Wilson came back from the trainer's table after Marshall's address to the team following the O'Toole comments and was informed after the rest of the team went out to begin stretching. After the training session, Marshall said Wilson would start.

"I told him about the comments and he immediately said he wanted to start and play the full 90," Marshall said. I told him I wanted him to be fresh for the Cup of Harmony, but he said, 'no way.' He will definitely be ready to start unless he suffers a last-minute injury."

Wilson declined to address the O'Toole comments directly, but gave reporters a steely glare and said, quietly but with determination adding edge to his voice, "we'll see."

Posted by: Crystilakere Aug 20 2004, 06:33 AM

Crystils Inspired by Reserve Performances.

The Crystilakere National team who is currently in Alikki-Corra, Vilita preparing for their first ever Cup Final in the AOCAF II Championship match will be able to take some inspiration from the performance of their understudies who have been thrown into the spotlight in both the Under 21 World Cup and The Cup of Harmony due to the intense focus the Crystils have put on getting their first trophy.

The Crystils were at near-full force for their first Under-21 Matchup against Carthage and Troy. Only attacker Toader Pold was still with the AOCAF side in Vilita. Oussent Non made a big impression during the match, scoring the game winning goal to send the Crystils to a flying start in the final Under 21 group, before Non himself was called to Vilita for the AOCAF Final. Crystilakere 1-0 Carthage and Troy

The next match, against another new team, the Eystrck "Force", would be the first that the Crystils would attempt with their depleted roster. The lack of depth in the Crystilakere youth side was visible from the start, however they worked hard and left the inspired Force dissapointed to not win, but still pleased with their first points. The Crystils would fall off the top of the table due to this result, still having the matchup with Top-Ranked Rejistania to go. Crystilakere 2-2 Eystrck

The 3rd Crystils match in the Under 21 would be a real impressive match for the second-string youngsters. Coming up against Tanah Burung they knew a loss there could put them in bad shape for the next round. Fortunately for the Crystils they were able to step it up, firing in a late goal to break the deadlock and put the Crystils back in a tie for first place with Rejistania. Crystilakere 2-1 Tanah Burung

As for the Cup of Harmony, the Crystilakere FA really was short on options, wanting to keep their Under 21 prowess in tact yet still field a formidable team for the match. So it was all left on the shoulders of 22 year old Michael Baker, starting alone up front in a 5-4-1 altered formation which saw many unknown's in the lineup.

Luckily, the Crystils had a somewhat easy match first time out against one of the worst teams in the Cup, Ebon Hawk. The Crystils all remember when they met the Hawks in the last Under 21 Cup, Baker especially who was a Crystili hero after sending his side to the next round. It was Baker again who downed the Hawks in a very impressive three-goal performance that he certainly will remember for a long while. Crystilakere 3-1 Ebon Hawk

Then, it was on to the toughest match of the competition, one that the Crystils would like to have seen how they performed with a full squad, but knowing that their first ever cup Final was more important, they again fielded the weakend 5-4-1 for the match against Giant Zucchini. After dropping a goal down early to a player whose name resembled the noise he made while his pinned nostrils begged to be freed, The Crystils fought back through Michael Baker and Sebastian Wolf to score an improbable victory. Crystilakere 2-1 Giant Zucchini

News of the improbable unbeaten run by the Crystili understudies has flown fast to the training grounds in Alikki-Corra where the Select squad training for the big final matchup with NEWI-Cefn Druids has been cheering them on. The inspiration that they are showing after each impressive overseas victory is un-measurable with each training session getting more and more impressive and the Crystils beginning to look like a team that is about to enter the final of the World Cup, and certainly are resembling more the look of the team that knocked Vilita out of the competition and not the one that embarrassingly lost to Xile.

Posted by: Sarzonia Aug 20 2004, 08:23 AM

Stars fade to black in 3-0 loss

The Sarzonian national team was livid coming into the third place match against Vilita. Vilitan Coach Baron O'Toole disparaged the Sarzonians by saying a third choice Jungle Cats side could beat the best Sarzonia had to offer. Unfortnately, the Stars' anger took them off their game and O'Toole proved prophetic, as the Jungle Cats easily beat the Stars, 3-0.

Forward Serge DuPont again was a thorn in the Stars' sides, scoring two of the three goals. An "egregious" mistake by midfielder Antonio Bresco led to the own goal that completed the scoring for Vilita.

"We were hoping to be focused the way we were against Xile," Coach Bryan Marshall said. "Unfortunately, we let our anger get in the way of our football. We're going to have a long talk about playing our brand of football no matter what."

The Stars generated few chances against the Jungle Cats, with forward Brian Wilson getting the best looks on goal before being substituted for after halftime. The defense betrayed goalkeeper Troy Perkins repeatedly, and the young keeper made nine saves on 24 Vilitan shots.

"We can't leave any of our goalkeepers out to dry like that," defender Mike Coyle said. "We just can't."

The Stars focus their attention on the Cup of Harmony, where the team just got flattened 4-0 in the worst loss in national team history.

"We've got a long road to climb now," Marshall said.

Posted by: NEWI Cefn Druids Aug 21 2004, 10:57 AM

The Daily Druid

CRYSTILIZED
Björn-Trevor Frederiksson on NEWI Cefn Druids 3 Crystilakere 2

Another cup final, another late late show from the Druids, and another unfortunate team on the receiving end. This time, it was Crystilakere who were the unlucky ones, after keeping the Druids out for so long.

In the first half, the Druids didn't really look up for it, but took and early lead when Trevor Belmore latched onto a slack backpass from Rene Niljssen and slid an easy goal in through Addis' legs. However, it was the Crystils who dominated the first half, and by half time, the scoreline reflected this. Firstly, Filippo Ferraro, up from the back for a corner, caught the Druids defence unawares and popped a darting header past Reg Garth. Following that goal was a goal fit to grace any cup final from Darren Whelan. After taking on two Druidish defenders, he hit an absolute screamer past a hapless Garth, who didn't even move.

The second half saw the Druids have more of the play than the first, but the Crystils seemed more than capable of hoilding out. Effort after effort, cross after cross came in, but still Ferraro and Alaya were as solid as any defender in the world. But, in what seems to be typical Druids nowadays, it was a goal in the last five minutes that sent this one into extra time.

After Gessemschmitthaagen-Po had held the ball up for his team mates, only to be pushed over by Alaya, Toby Holmes swung a free kick into the Crystils' penalty area, only for Ferraro to clear yet again. This time though, it fell to Horace Orange on the edge of the penalty area, who hit a bullet that was heading towards the goal until Arrigoni blocked. The scramle that followed made it difficult to see the ball, but the ball somehow bobbled into the net, and Trevor Welsh was congratulated by his team mates, so we guess he scored.

Extra time it was, and by now, the Druids were becoming pretty damn difficult to live with. Gessemschmitthaagen-Po and Orange both hit the post before Trevor Belmore was brought down in the penalty area by Ferraro. Penalty to the Druids!?!?! Surely referee! But no, nothing. Ferraro cleared, but the dodgy decision the Druids received didn't matter anyway, as the clearance fell straight to full-back Trevor Griffiths, who, in his most significant mooment in football, hit a huge 45-yard lob over Addis. It hit the bar, but rebounded to the now back on his feet Belmore, who couldn't miss. The Druids held on, and the AOCAF Cup had been defended.

Final score:
NEWI Cefn Druids 3 [Belmore 11, 103, Welsh 89]
Crystilakere 2 [Ferraro 27, Whelan 39]
After Extra Time

Posted by: Crystilakere Aug 21 2004, 01:37 PM

Crystils train hard after AOCAF Defeat

The Crystilakere Cup Of Harmony and Under 21 Cup teams have now returned to full strength following the completion of the 2nd AOCAF Tournament in Vilita. The two teams had been playing with limited rosters with 23 Crystili players in full training in preperation for Crystilakere's first ever cup final against NEWI Cefn Druids.

The Full Strength Crystils showed their international potential by controlling much of the game, and leading 2-1 for much of the match. While NEWI Cefn Druids had taken an undeserved lead early in the match, Filippo Ferraro and Darren Whelan both scored for Crystilakere to put the underdogs ahead at half time. However, the Crystil dreams were postponed in the dying minutes of the match when NEWI Cefn Druids were able to score a messy goal after a large scramble in the box, with Trevor Welsh believed to have gotten the final touch to send the match to extra time. From there, NEWI Cefn Druids's opening goalscorer Trevor Belmore cracked the Crystil dreams with a rebound goal halfway through extra time, giving the 2nd AOCAF Trophy to NEWI Cefn Druids.

Filippo Ferraro will be ready to return to the AOCAF Campaign after being named man of the match in the final. The Crystils had an off day in the Cup of Harmony, allowing everyone to arrive in Raptor Claw and get used to the dangerous environment ahead of time. However, they will not be joined by Senior Under-21 players Oussent Non and Toader Pold, who have been flown to Total n Utter Insanity for the Quarter Finals of the Under 21 Cup, where the depleted under 21's escaped Audioslavia in the second round in penalty kicks after a goalless draw between the teams.

Posted by: Krytenia Aug 22 2004, 09:31 AM

KRYTENIA 4-2 SARZONIA : U21 V

Good God. Crystilakere? AGAIN?!?!?