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AO Forum :: > AOCAF - The AO Regional Soccer Tournament > AOCAF VIII RP Thread

Posted by: Druida May 3 2005, 04:44 PM

The Daily Druid

AOCAF COMES TO DRUIDA
By Bill Posters

After going all around Atlantian Oceania since what seems like forever (it was only 1970*), the AOCAF has finally come to the Druidish Lands! OK, so we're not four-times winners NEWI Cefn Druids any more, but let's be honest, it's better off that way, eh?

So anyway, you may be asking yourself, "Well why don't thiey just get on with things? Are they drunk or something?" Well, of course, the chances are that the organising committee are probably completely lashed in some backstreet bar in Bessburg. But that's not why they haven't started.

No, they haven't started because for some bizarre reason, the hosting committee decided it would be a damn good idea to set the deadline for entries after the official tournament start time. A very Druidan, though somewhat shambolic, way of doing things. With 22 football squads from 22 different nations across the region already here waiting for the scheduled start time (that was yesterday, folks.), people are starting to question giving the hosting rights to such an unorganised rabble.

Furthermore, the deadline seems to have been given out in some secret code that we at the Daily Druid are struggling to get our head around. IRL 11am tomorrow BST? We get the time bit, but what are all the letters in aid of? Somebody pass me the tablets...

Anyway, at that time, whenever it is, the draw will be made and then AOCAF VIII will finally be upon us!

* - This is using the Druidan calendar. We are aware that other nations use different timescales, so elsewhere it'll be different years.

Posted by: Starblaydia May 3 2005, 06:00 PM

Starblaydia Up For Title Defence
Probably The Best B Team in the World

De Marco, Khaif, Tobias and de Montford are four starters who have kept their places in Starblaydia's 'B' Team from four years ago. Starblaydia are, of course, the most successful AOCAF team still in existence, what with the NEWI Cefn Druids having been incorporated into the Druidan mediocrity.

With Two Championships and Two Runners-Up places, Starblaydia have positioned themselves as the dominant force within AO. If only the Starblaydi squad could make the same impact on the senior World stage, rather than just the Under-21s.

Starblaydia will be making the short trip across the mighty Bekk lake to Druida, their co-hosting nation for the highly-successful World Cup 20. Vilita managed to take the World Title the last time a Final was held in The Hole of Mawr, so could they take the regional title in the same arena?

Starblaydia will be hoping to prove that wrong and take their third Regional Title at the same time.

Posted by: Sarzonia May 4 2005, 10:05 AM

Stars v. 3.0

With few exceptions, the squad representing Sarzonia in the eighth AOCAF tournament is essentially a brand new collection of footballers. After Sarzonia withdrew from the seventh AOCAF tournament and briefly left Atlantian Oceania, their participation in this tournament was in doubt. However, Incorporated Football Federation Chairman Terry Mangione said there was "no doubt," the team should play.

"This is a premier tournament that is arguably the toughest regional tournament in the world," Mangione said. "Some of the world's greatest teams make their home in Atlantian Oceania and a lot of these matches have World Cup intensity. It's an excellent place for us to develop our depth players."

More depth players than ever will take the field for the Stars. Only three players and the head coach are back on the team from AOCAF VI, when the Stars failed to advance to the semifinals for the first time in the team's history.

"That was a disappointing way to end the run," Coach Bryson Juergens said. "And then to not come back right after that was even more crushing. We should be back and more ready to go after it this time."

The Stars are playing in the Southern Confernece with the region's top ranked team according to Atlantian Oceania media, rivals Starblaydia. Onetime nemesis Nojika also lies in wait for the Stars, while footballing newcomers Nedalia and Starblaydi colony Nova Britannicus round out the conference. The Stars expect to have a bye on the second matchday and are considering the prospect of playing a Druidan club team.

"We're concerned that our off day is on Matchday Two," forward and newly-elected team captain Kevin Wilson said. "I hope we get to play Parkville. I'd like to see us match up against [midfielder] Darwin Russell if the first choice [Sarzonian team] isn't playing a match."

Mangione said the team would explore the possibility and a letter would go out later that afternoon.

"Parkville has a long tradition of excellence," Mangione said. "That would be great to expose our players to."

Posted by: Lamoni May 4 2005, 05:24 PM

5th place Hawks in Druida for AOCAF VIII

After securing the 5th seed in the AO rankings with a third place finish in AOCAF VII, the Hawks will be looking to capitolize in AOCAF VIII, and possibly defeat Starblaydia for the first time. The Hawks have been placed in a competitive group, with Cockbill Street, Nova Roma, FmjPhoenix, Giustizalia, and Crystilakere rounding out the group.

Our predictions:

Cockbill Street: One of the teams that will make a good showing in this group, they may knock either Crystilakere or Lamoni out of the knockouts if things go the right way for them. 1st, 2nd or 3rd place

Nova Roma: New to the AOCAF, this team is not likely to make it to the knockouts, though as the Hawks can attest, it CAN happen. 5th place

FmjPhoenix: It is felt that this team will make a valiant effort, but likely not make it into the knockouts. Not for a lack of trying, however. 4th place

Giustizalia: Also new to the AOCAF, it is believed by statisticians that Nova Roma has a slight edge over these guys. 6th place

Crystilakere: Along with Cockbill Street, this is the team that the Hawks are really going to have to keep an eye on. Ranked third in AO, they are just slightly ahead of the Hawks, but that could be the thing that makes all the difference. 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place

Posted by: Bettia May 5 2005, 04:09 AM

"Hellooooo and welcome to Footy Review on the Sonastra Sports Network. I'm your host Razir Jones on SSN, the only place to see your very own Aroras in AOCAF action. Now, the draw has been made for the first round, and Bettia have been drawn in the Eastern Conference. It's safe to say hey're in for a tough time. This is their first foray into this championship, so naturally they're unranked. First up is Legalese. Tommy?"

"Thank you Razir. Now then, Legalese finished bottom of their group in AOCAF VII gaining just one point. They'll be looking to do a lot better this time round."

"On matchday 2 they face quarter-finalists South Ossetia. They're only ranked 13 for this competition - Tommy, is that a false position for them?"

"Pssh. Don't ask me about rankings mate. As the value-brand spud said to the Maris Piper, I'm just a common-tater."

"**groan** Honestly, I've heard better jokes on the lunchtime news. I mean, come on, am I really paid to put up with this? Anyway, back to business. Next up is Turori, the top-ranked team in the group. They only just missed out on the knockout stages in the last tournament and will hoping to make amends for that disappointment. Then our boys finish off with an equally tough game with runners-up Krytenia. Tommy, your thoughts?"

"I'm not gonna beat around the bush here, winning a single point will be a major victory. This is a total step into the unknown for our lads and they'll be facing some stiff tests - it'll be interesting to see how they fare. It'll also be interesting to see the stadiums our Druidan hosts have got lined up. I don't know about you, but that Sorrellime Fountain looks rather picturesque sat next to that river."

"Thank you very much. Next on SSN, exclusive highlights from a random mid-table clash in Division Four. Mmm, can't wait. Lower league mediocrity at it's best!"

Posted by: Sarzonia May 5 2005, 11:14 AM

Stars win 'Navy' battle, 2-1

Two nations. Both of which use either navy or another derivative of the colour blue. Both countries also look back on proud nautical traditions. But Sarzonia were the better team on this day, getting goals from Kevin Wilson and Owen Manson en route to a 2-1 win over Nova Britannicus.

"We wanted to start off our first match in the AOCAF tournament since our return on a good note," Coach Bryson Juergens said. "I'm proud of the lads and lassie for playing well."

Even though Nova Britannicus jumped out to the early 1-0 lead with intense pressure that yielded a 12th minute goal by midfielder Jeremy Patel, the Stars (1-0-0, three points first place, Southern Conference), that came against the run of play as the Stars kept the ball in Nova Britannicus's end for 51 minutes overall and 27 minutes in the first half.

Manson scored the equaliser 27 minutes in after stealing the ball from Patel, who got careless with a back pass and the Stars looked like the goal gave them a surge in energy.

"I think it did," Manson said. "It felt like we were working a little bit better after that early goal and we were in form from then on."

Wilson gave the Stars the winning margin in the 68th minute, shortly after midfielder Calvin Olson was brought down in the penalty area. Wilson cooly banged the penalty kick into the middle of the net after getting goalkeeper Henry Tuckworth to commit to his right.

"I just put a quick head move on him and shot it," Wilson said. "Nothing fancy, just power." The same could have been said about the Stars.

Posted by: Cockbill_Street May 5 2005, 11:31 AM

Street Close To Quarter-Finals
Upset In Neodzki Means Street Are Ranked Second

While everyone else seems to care about the World Cup Finals next door in Vilita and Legalese, Cockbill Street's next-best footballers are also competing - a young squad with an average age in the region of 25 yesterday beat off Lamoni's best.

Owing to the scheduling mess-up, very few Streetian fans have travelled to Druida, although the odd red-white-and-blue scarf could be seen. Probably people who couldn't afford the trip to the Heartland. In any event, Sam Peterson proved himself to be a future candidate of keeping for the national team, especially after Simon Qurat's dismal performance for the national team yesterday.

In any event, it was a close game, that could easily have gone either way. Only Sam Peterson's great goalkeeping prevented a conceded goal, while up front, newly appointed captain James Chitterling missed a bunch of chances. Luckily, though, Edward Clarke was a little more clinical, as he put the ball to McCaa's left for 1-0 with fifteen minutes to spare. The match could very easily have been 2-1 in the final minutes, both Lamoni and Cockbill Street missing crucial chances by sending them inches wide.

Cockbill Street - and their few fans with no money - next trafel (editor's note: the journalist must have been influenced by local spelling) to Cefn, and the Griffin Park, home of Cefn Albion. Hopefully they'll get through the griffin habitat and into the indubitably beautiful Park - where they'll face off with newcomers Giustizalia, a former colony of Legalese. Their squad is not really known, and the only thing we know about them is that they are green and gold, and that their land lies to the south of Psytroxia, to the east of Legalese and The Lowland Clans, and to the north of Chacor. (Editor's note: we're sorry for the geography lesson, but according to our journalist in Druida: "That's the only thing I know about 'em!"

CODE

Montisch Stadion, Neodzki
LAMONI 0 (0)COCKBILL STREET 1 (0)
---------------------------------------------------------------
Clinton McCaa 5 Sam Peterson* 7
Neil Minnis 5 Gold-telluride 5
Christian Combest 6 (Bjorn Olafslayer on 80 )
(Max Walck on 72 ) Phyllosilicate 6
Lance Rubel 5 Ryan Talbot 5
Neil Silvis 6 Olaf Einarsson 4
(Guy Luft on 54 4) Bjorn Spearwielder 6
Lonnie Helling 4 Thorir Beardgrower 6
Clinton Schantz 6 (Juan M. al-Axewielder on 74 )
Lance Patillo 5 Iret Hiria 5
Clayton Diggins 4 (Samuel Toshack on 74 )
Lance Sweigart 4 Roger Law 6
Nelson Bebout 5 James Chitterling+ 5
(Guy Alejandre on 80 ) Edward Clarke 6

* denotes humanoid of the match
+ denotes captain

Goal: 0-1 Clarke 74
Bookings: Minnis (Lamoni), Einarsson, Talbot, Law (Cockbill Street)
Referee: Trevor Trevor (Druida) 6
Attendance: 11,841

Posted by: Nedalia May 5 2005, 11:39 AM

Nedalia: 1 (Nene 66th)

Nojika: 0

- A thrilling result in Parkville saw the Lions take steps to putting behind them the disappointment of the WC 22 qualifying campaign and hopefully get back to the levels they achieved so famously during the U21 WC 14 run, which was ended, incidentally, with a loss to Southern Conference opponents Starblaydia. In a match that was painstakingly un-Nedalian, defense was the calling card of both teams, as opportunities came far and wide between, with only a brilliant solo effort by wonderkid Nene seperating the two teams in the match of tactics.

The Panthers, who failed to qualify to the quarterfinals in the last AOCAF Championship, were hoping for a comfortable 3 points to start of the tournament, and with the recent displays showcased by the Lions, who would have blamed them. But for once, the Nedalians came out playing as if they wanted to win, and manager Randy Gamman could not have been happier.

"This is a tough, tough group, so taking 3 points from anybody will be welcomed with open arms. Nojika are obviously the more experienced team, but we showed that when we want to, we can compete. Its jut a matter of consistency, because the talent is there. What we need to do now is look forward. This game is behind us, we got the 3 points, now lets move on. We cannot stop here. We're playing Nova Britannicus next, and we all know they're going to come at us with every they got. Just look at the way their navy operates...I think that speaks for the attitude of the whole country. We have to be ready to play."

What manager Randy Gamman failed to mention was the footballing relations between the two nations. As everyone in Nedalia is well aware, Starblaydian company Orcinus owns Honsfield Athletic, and through that means they have imported 4 Nova Britannicus players, all of whom will be featured in their AOCAF Championship team. But it doesnt stop there...Honsfield manager, Starblaydian David Bentley, has also been assigned the task of managing the Nova Britannicus national side. Such understanding of the Nedalian game could prove costly information given out for the Lions on Matchday 2.

In other Southern Conference news, Sarzonia defeated Nova Britannicus 2 - 1 in Canbury, which now puts the Stars and the Lions on top of the table with 3 points a piece. The upcoming games feature Starblaydia vs. Nojika in Cranbury, and ofcourse, Nedalia vs. Nova Britannicus in Trontby, with Sarzonia receiving a bye.

Posted by: Fmjphoenix May 5 2005, 03:01 PM

Chocobos open with a 2-1 victory

Even though almost all the footballing focus is on the international stage with the Vikings and Junior Vikings, the Chocobo of Fmjphoenix opened up the regional stage with a solid 2-1 victory over Giustizalia.

Suprise player Branden Kapono, though to have left football after being cut off the international team, scored both goals for the Chocobos in the second half, providing enough support for goalkeeper Erin Charts to ensure 3 points. It was not a flashy match, just lots of back and forth along the pitch. Although they may not be the best in Fmjphoenix, they have proved they can play football. The second match is against Crystilakere, one of the group facorites. Although it will not be an easy match, you can expect Fmjphoenix to come out with all they have to try and walk away with at least a point from them.

Posted by: Lamoni May 5 2005, 04:56 PM

Hawks lose 0-1 in opening match

The Hawks lost a heartbreakingly close match against Cockbill Street 0-1 today. The shooting from the Lamonian squad seemed to be off, with the squad missing on many attempts. The Hawks almost scored a goal, but it was deflected by the Streetian goalkeeper at the last second. At least, that was the ruling of the referee on the field.

Goalkeer McCaa put it this way, "We haven't been practicing as much or as well as we did the first time that this particular Lamonian squad hit the AOCAF field. I feel certain that this will be rectified before our next match against Nova Roma. Now if you'll all excuse me, the coach is calling for me."

Lamoni's next match is against Nova Roma, who is unranked in the AO standings. While nothing is garunteed in the AOCAF, we feel that Nova Roma should prepare for a pounding in this match. The Hawks didn't make it to 5th in the region by being lazy, after all; and while their rank climbing strategy is not seen as 'normal' by AO standards, it has worked in Lamoni's favor nonetheless.

The only thing that the Hawks know about the Nova Roman team is that they (as Novvs Atlantis) lead a failed invasion of the Free Republic, and moved north sometime later. Still, the Lamonians are frankly enjoying their reproduced versions of captured Nova Roman technology.

Lamoni - 0
Cockbill Street - 1 Clarke (74)

Posted by: Druida May 6 2005, 04:13 AM

The Daily Druid

EDI SINKS BEDI
Bill Posters on Druida 1 Bedistan 0

An unusual sight this AOCAF saw Druida overcome Bedistan in their opening game of the cup in Newton Vale. That unusual sight being some Druidans who haven't messed things up.

Yes, Druida did well in front of their home crowd, and the team could yet endear themselves to them in a way that the World Cup 20 side failed to do. The most remarkable performance came from Riccardo Eduno. Eduno had, up until last season, played on the right of midfield for club and country. However, as Dinamo Neodzki were desperate at the back, he moved into the centre of defence, where his performances have lifted Dinamo to the brink of promotion back to the DPL.

In this game, he shut out the Bedistani team easily, and on this form, he could even make it back onto the full roster in a completely new position in four years time. Fic alongside him was also strong, and showed that Druida must have some strength and depth in the position.

The only goal of the game came from a corner, and was typical more of Crystilakere than Druida, with Eduno heading home a Trevor Rivers corner. It was enough, though a late save from Trevor Perry to keep out a misdirected Angus McCootey header sealed it.

Is this the start of a new glory era for the Druidish Lands in the AOCAF? On the basis of this result, saying that would be crazy, but you never can tell...

Final score:
Druida 1 (Eduno 68)
Bedistan 0

Posted by: Starblaydia May 6 2005, 06:54 AM

Starblaydia Don't Win, Don't Score
Hold on... they didn't play

Though some merely claim its a slow news day, we at the Jhanna Chronicle know otherwise. In the flurry of opening-day AOCAF games played yesterday, Starblaydia quickly fell behind those teams picking up one or three point, but still stayed ahead of teams that lost.

"What are you talking about?" team captain Fernando De Marco asked us, "we Didn't. Play. Yester. Day.

So much for him, but now Starblaydia lie behind Sarzonia and, yes, even Nedalia in the Southern Conference. Starblaydia's next game will be against Nojika, where they'll certainly be hoping to do better than yesterday's non-existant performance.

Yeah, you're right, it is a slow news day.

Posted by: Bettia May 6 2005, 10:15 AM

" (oh, have I finished my flask of tea already? Hey kid, go and get me a cup, quickly now, before they start. Good lad) You join us live for Bettia's first AOCAF match against Legalese, being played here in Sorrelline. In a minute we'll bring you the team news, but first let's be hear the national anthems... Hmmmmm, everyone just seems standing around doing nothing. ."

"Well, it would help if we actually had a national anthem. Perhaps the Legalese anthem is better... erm... nope, no luck there neither."

"Ah well, a slightly disappointing start to proceedings there. While we're wating for the kick-off, lets just go through the Bettian squad. In goal we have Ricardo DiTorino, still standing in for the injured Amir Bettison. Apart from that, we have a fully fit lineup. In centre of defence we have Coates, Ismail and Williams, with Carew playing as left wing-back and Bin Da'ud on the opposite flank. In midfield we have Connick in the centre with Brooks and Whistler either side of him, with Abdul-Rahim and Hutton up front. Now lets join the action - Legalese have won the toss and kick off."

14 minutes
"This is tentative stuff, both teams are just sizing each other up. Bettia are just stroking the ball around across the back and... oh! That was a loose by Williams. The Legalese striker has picked that up and he's through... he's lobbed DiTorino and... ohhh my word, that was close! The ball just bounces off the roof of the net, and its safe to say Williams is a mightily relieved man. That was an early scare for Bettia there. They can't afford to keep making mistakes like that, not if they want to progress..."

35 minutes
"...and Bettia are really starting to get back into this game now. Here's Carew now breaking down the left. Long diagonal ball... oh look at that, straight to Hutton's feet, how precise was that? Hutton's into the area... oh, he's been pushed wide by the defender... still manages to cut the ball back to Brooks just outside the area. He's thinking about the shot there, and... wow, he unleashed a thunderbolt there but it's way wide. Such a good build-up, let down by poor finishing."

44 minutes
"...as Legalese prepare to take this corner. They're bringing up their big central defenders for this one, looking to go into half-time with the lead. There's a bit of jostling going on in the box... it's starting to get a bit ugly. Good job the ref's got a grip on that. Here's the ball floated into the box... and it's bundled in! Goal to Legalese!! No, wait! No, the referee's disallowed it, there must've been a push on DiTorino. The Legalese players aren't too happy with that! They're crowding around the ref... they're going have to watch their mouths, they don't want to end up in the ref's book. There's a yellow card being shown... he's booked one of their players, obviously for saying a bit too much. And there's the half-time whistle. Well, a controversial end to the first half there and no mistake. Was the referee right to disallow that goal?"

"I have to honestly say that from where I was sitting, that goal looked okay to me. But at the end of the day, its the ref calling the shots here and he was in a much better position than us to make that call. I'm sure some commentators will say the keepers are over-protected in situations like this, but thats just the state of the game right now."

"Thank you. We'll have plenty more to talk about after the break... don't go away! Phew, I'm parched. You couldn't get me a cup of tea, could you? There's a good lad."

"Are you sure? Don't you think you've had enough, what with your bladder and everything?"

47 minutes
"...and Legalese have really shot out of the blocks in this second half. They're playing the ball into the final third almost at will. Bettia are having to soak up an enormous amount of pressure here... but finally they get the ball away. Connick challenges in the air, and the ball is flicked on to substitute Bobby Rosensteihl... oh what superb skill there from the youngster, he just ghosted past his marker as though he wasn't there! 25 yards out now... he shoots... oh! That's struck the post, and it's cleared by a defender. That would've been the perfect introduction there for the Downton star. He plays for the Bulldozers, and he almost bulldozed Bettia into the lead!"

67 minutes
"(Psst. Hey you! Boy! Here's some money, go and get us a cup of tea.)"

82 minutes
"Less than ten minutes to go, and this game's heading for a nil-nil draw. It's Legalese in possession now, pressing down the right-hand side. Nice square ball into the middle there, he's just outside the area. He's looking to pass the ball but support's a bit thin for him there. Takes the shot, but it's blocked by Said Ismail. Hang on, there's shouts of handball coming from some of the Legalese players... and he's given it! The referee's given the penalty! Oh my word, we've got late drama here at the Sorellime Fountain! Now then... was that a penalty? Let's just see the replay... (where's my tea? Finished again? Here lad, go and get us another one.)"

"Oh, there's no way that was handball. The ball clearly hit him on the chest. What a shocking decision by the official."

"Okay, he steps up to take the spot kick... and it's saved! What a fantastic save... but it's the Legalese striker who's first to the rebound... and it's in! It's one-nil to Legalese, and DiTorino's heroics were all in vain. What a fantastic save though. That's a small consolation."

91 minutes
"...what a thrilling end to this match. Bettia are throwing everything forward. Substitute Judson York now with the ball... he's gone past one... what an amazing burst of speed here, he's trying to rescue the game for the Aroras single-handedly. He's into the area now... he shoots! Oh, it's off the crossbar! How unlucky was that? (oooh, I shouldn't have had all that tea!). And that's the final whistle. The ref signals the end of this tense opening game. The final score... Legalese one, Bettia nil... aaaaaaahh... oh no."

Posted by: Vilita May 6 2005, 10:51 AM

Makosile Striker added to AOCAF Squad

18 year old Makosile Striker Grenville Marai has been added to Serge DuPont's AOCAF squad at the request of Under-21 head coach and long time teammate of DuPont's at Strike FC, Santo Kecker. Kecker had received a letter from Makosile head coach Lorenzo Abellan about the performances of Marai since being given his first professional contract at the start of season 17. Marai netted the game winner for Makosile on his debut, and has been an influential member of the first team squad ever since. While it is believed that Kecker is content with his main trio of Strikers, Tika Massa of Eastal Lunar, Kris Wrice of Turoki Isle and Tristam Bumbar of Yutzie Sorma, He has been looking for a 4th Striker now that Arcticala Inlet's Julian Lisbie will no longer be eligible for the Under-21 side. Marai has recently recovered from a series of toe injuries that kept him out of Makosile matches for about a month.

Posted by: Turori May 6 2005, 11:17 AM

Tuirma handed first head coaching job

Long standing Turori international hero Cuolia Tuirma has been given the chance to prove his coaching abilities by the Football Association of Turori (FAT) in the AOCAF competition, Tuirma's first step into the world of International management. Tuirma has been spending his time as a player/coach at Marine Coast United, and recently helped the team back to the top of the Stellar Division after years of dominance by rivals Yeaddin Owls AFC. It is believed that Marine Coast United manager and former Vilitan AOCAF head coach Baron O'Toole recommended the 36 year old midfielder to the Turorian FA when he heard they were reviewing candidates for the position of AOCAF manager. Tuirma, a known Free Kick specialist, will likely lead the team from the playing field, while Yabaiy Tbaiao will take up the role as his active assistant from the touchline.

Posted by: Cockbill_Street May 6 2005, 04:28 PM

Street Power On
Minor Problems Overcome Against Giustizalia

The Streetian "A" team fielded a B team of their own today, as Giustizalia was expected to be a light opponent in the Griffin Park. But after a nervy first half, that turned out not to be the case. Only after the entrance of substitutes Bjorn Spearwielder and Phyllosilicate was some order restored to the Streetian team, and the deciding goal was scored with ten minutes to spare.

The Legalese puppet, however, fought well, and could well have got a point of the match - had it not been for the efficiency of strikers Chitterling, Ure and Kerr, and the excellence of substitute goalkeeper Obsidian. The Street showed that there's plenty of goalkeeping talent around, the fifth-choice playing excellently and nearly becoming humanoid of the match. That honour went to Ian Kerr, though, for one goal either side of half-time.

CODE

Griffin Park, Cefn
COCKBILL STREET 2 (1) GIUSTIZALIA 1 (1)
---------------------------------------------------------------
Obsidian 6
Bjorn Olafslayer 5
Thorstein Stonelover 4
Ryan Talbot 5
(Phyllosilicate on 55 6)
Graham Wilkinson 5
Niall McLavish 5
(Bjorn Spearwielder on 58 7)
Samuel Toshack 4
Richard Craven 5
Juan Maria al-Axewielder 5
James Chitterling+ 6
(Donald Ure on 74 )
Ian Kerr* 6
Sum 11 players: 56
Sum 13 players: 69

* denotes humanoid of the match
+ denotes captain

Goals: 1-0 Kerr 33, 1-1 Cochran 44, 2-1 Kerr 80
Bookings: Chitterling, Toshack (Cockbill Street)
Referee: Trevor Trevor (Druida) 5
Attendance: 17,414

Posted by: Lamoni May 6 2005, 05:15 PM

Hawks need serious motivation

The Hawks seem to be off of their top form in this AOCAF, drawing the match against Nova Roma 0-0.

"The last time that the Hawks have had an AOCAF group stage result quite like this would probably be our first AOCAF appearance," said goalkeeper McCaa. "fortunately, we are in third place in our group, and can advance to second place by defeating FmjPhoenix in our next match. However, we are going to have to get some serious motivation. I haven't seen a team with a lower motivational level since my high school team."

Indeed, the Hawks have yet to score a goal in AOCAF VIII. We can only hope that this trend reverses itself in the Hawks' upcoming match, or this could be the first AOCAF where the Hawks don't even make it into the knockouts.

Lamoni - 0
Nova Roma - 0

Posted by: Starblaydia May 6 2005, 05:54 PM

Routine But Boring Win For Starblaydia
Nojika felled 1-0

A carinval atmosphere greeted the first match between these two nations since their official joining in the Region's most powerful alliance.

Thais match had both highs and lows for Starblaydia. The high was the first international goal for Itechton Matranga as he came on for Raphael Delgado, changing the midfield completely and suitably being on the end of a great move that was enough to see off the determined Panthers.

The low, however, was the injury to #1 Goalie and Captain Fernando De Marco. After failing to remove his wedding ring from underneath his glove before the match, it turned out to be the biggest mistake of his night. A good shot by Nojikan striker Jerrel Alson forced De Marco to full stretch before he could tip the ball just over the bar. Unfortunately, De Marco caught his wedding band on a nail sticking out of the crossbar, causing a stomach-churningly gruesome injury to De Marco.

Angleos Prokopsis, the young 'keeper farmed out by the Yeaddin Owls for experience and once Starblaydi Goalkeeper of the Year, was called into action as a subsitute and performed well throughout the rest of the game. He is expected to continue in 'net for the rest of the tournament.

Posted by: Nedalia May 7 2005, 11:53 AM

Lions See Draw as they Eye Knockout Berth

- A high paced, energetic matchup took place at The Plughole in Trontby, Druida between our beloved Lions and the Nova Britannicusians, ending in a deserved 2-2 draw for both teams. Again, the Lions showed a sense of urgency that has not been seen since the group stages of the latest BoF Cup, playing with heart and desire that the U21 World Cup 14 finalist team was known for.

Both goals came by way of assists from Mattan, the unhappy Porasse striker whose problems on the national scene has not come with him to the international stage. The striker has not been satisfied with Porasse and their lowly finish, and he has been shopped around for around $11 million. It is rumored that many Nedalian teams, and even some Cockbill Street interest, has been reported, and he certainly showed why last night. The goalscorers were actually Nene and Kenneth, both 2nd half goals, with Kenneth equalizing the game.

This has put Nedalia on top of a tough Southern Conference 2 games in, with 4 points. Starblaydia, who played their first game against Nojika and won, have 3 points, and Sarzonia also have 3 points. It is still a suprise that Sarzonia are competing due to the situation going on, but regardless, they will still be tough opponents to beat.

Posted by: Nova Britannicus May 7 2005, 05:13 PM

Bluebirds Pick Up First Point

Nova Britannicus took their first point of their Sixth AOCAF campaign as they drew 2-2 with up-and-comers Nedalia, who currently top the Southern Conference with four points. Nova Britannicus have a rest match tomorrow, and they feel they need a rest more than a change, so would prefer not to be put into the hat to play a Druidan League side.

Britannican legend Royal Seaford thought he had won it for the Bluebirds as he put them into a 2-0 lead with around half an hour to go, with his twenty-fifth international goal. Henry Maitland of Nedalian club Honsfield Athletic also bagged his first international goal to make the game 1-0 in the first half.

Unfortunately, some poor defending and the seeming refusal to mark Mattan allowed the Nedalians to get back into the game and bring it back to 2-2 from 2-0 down. Nova Britannicus' much-criticised defence is once again in the Britannican newspaper headlines after this display.

Posted by: Fmjphoenix May 7 2005, 06:15 PM

Chocobos upbeat despite loss

Despite the tough 1-0 loss against Crystilakere. They have already put this match past and have set their sites on the underachieving hawks from Lamoni. Even though they have been Fmjphoenix's ban ever since they have been in the AOCAF, there are feelings of changes coming around. They are in thir behind group leaders Crystilakere and Cockbill Street. It will not be easy, but they are liking their chances this time around.

Posted by: Starblaydia May 8 2005, 04:20 PM

Starblaydia Put Nedalia In Their Place
Matis sets up Second in 2-0 Win

Julio Matis was greeted by universal applause as he came on for his first appearance in the 8th AOCAF.

Matis' contribution turned out to be the pass for the second goal, coming from Michalis Mitrofanis. Matis' cheeky back-heel fooled both central-defenders and wrong-footed the 'keeper, letting Mitrofanis toe-poke the ball in at the 'keepers' near post.

Earlier on in the match Raphael Delgado, newly promoted to Captain after De Marco's tournament-ending injury, got the first goal from a well-taken cross, supplied by Itechton Matranga.

Thanks to Sarzonia's 2-0 win over Southern Conference whipping-boys Nojika puts them on top of the Conference, putting Starblaydia in second place on virtue of having scored one goal less. The Starb;aydia/Sarzonia match on Matchday 5 is increasingly looking like the match that will decide the Group Winners.

Posted by: Lamoni May 8 2005, 09:26 PM

Hawks return to winning ways

The Hawks have finally seemed to give their curious lethargy the old heave-ho with a 3-1 victory over FmjPhoenix. The win puts the Hawks in third place in their group, where they will have to hustle if they are going to stay in knockout contention.

All three Lamoni goals were scored by Hugh Desper, who seemed to have a career enhancing match. He was even humble enough to refuse to take credit for his performance, saying instead that it's really the efforts of the whole team that allowed him to perform so well.

Lamoni faces unranked Giustizalia next, and if the Hawks have indeed returned to their winning ways, this should be an easy match for the Hawks. Only time will tell, however; and it would not do for Lamoni to get overconfident. However, things are looking up for the Hawks at this juncture.

Lamoni - 3 Hugh Desper (12, 15, 30)
FmjPhoenix - 1 (35)

Posted by: Sarzonia May 8 2005, 09:52 PM

Stars stomp Nojika 2-0
Sarzonia came back from playing a 0-0 draw with Druidan side Parkville, in which midfielder Darwin Russell didn't suit up for either side, but they romped over Nojika 2-0, staying in first place in the group thanks to goal differential.

"We're not worried about standings early on," Coach Bryson Juergens said. "We're just going to take it one match at a time."

The Stars got an impressive game from goalkeeper Marco Taglianetti (six saves) and a two goal game from Kevin Wilson, who is beginning to look like his older brother, Stars all time leading goalgetter Brian Wilson, from a football standpoint.

"Yeah, Kev's done well," Taglianetti said. "He'll get a look with the seniors I'm sure."

Sarzonia prepares to face a Nedalia side that it's never faced in senior competition, though they're well aware that Nedalia knocked its Junior Stars out of Under 21 World Cup XV. Juergens said the team would not use that as motivation.

"This is a different side," Jergens pointed out. "Besides, we've got a match to win. That's motivation enough."

Posted by: Starblaydia May 9 2005, 04:38 PM

Bluebirds Shot Down
Routine 3-1 Win for Starblaydia

Young guns Michalis Mitrofanis and Itechton Matranga gave Starblaydia a generally-routine 3-1 win over Nova Britannicus.

A brace from Hecia striker Mitrofanis and another from super-sub (Itechton) Matranga gave Starblaydia nine points from nine as they chase the one goal extra that they need to overtake rivals Sarzonia at the top of the table.

Though Bluebird legend Royal Seaford pulled one back for the Britannicans, Starblaydia effectively cruised through this match as they prepare for the might of Sarzonia.

"We're about to play them in the World Cup Second Round and in decisive AOCAF Group Match," injured captain Fernando De Marco said, stretching metaphors as far as possible, "they want to avoid a 'clean sweep', but I'm not so sure we'll brush them aside so easily."

Posted by: Lamoni May 9 2005, 08:18 PM

Hawks crush new guys

Lamoni retained it's number three group seed with a 2-0 victory over AOCAF newcombers Giustizalia. The funny thing is, the team doesn't know any more about that team now than they did before the match.

McCaa commented on the phenomenon. "We've faced teams whose players have no names before, but it always seems odd in a way. They may be the opponent now, but after the AOCAFs, there have been friendships formed with players from the other national teams. This is not just a Lamonian thing, either. Either way, we got what we came here for, and that is what ultimately matters. With FmjPhoenix hot on our heels, we are going to need to defeat Crystilakere unless Fmj loses to Cockbill Street, which would not be thought abnormal."

Indeed, Lamonians are going to be watching that match with almost as much interest as their own next match against Crystilakere. In their first match, some Lamonian players got into a bar brawl with Crystil fans in Vilita, but the matchs have historically come out in Lamoni's favor. While that will comfort the Hawks somewhat, they will not rely on that, thinking that they can get an easy win. This is going to be a hard fought match, but one that Lamoni should be able to win.

In the match against Giustizalia, the Hawks dominated the match completely, the Hawks only really needing one goal to win, but getting two.

Lamoni - 2 Hugh Desper (20), Guy Alejandre (35)
Giustizalia - 0

Posted by: Nedalia May 9 2005, 08:33 PM

Stars Put a Hurtin' on the Lions

After a hopeful start to AOCAF VIII, the Lions have begun sliding back into WC 22 form, slumping to their second consecutive defeat. This time it was to Sarzonia, a nation under civil strife. With tensions rising in eastern AO, the Sarzonians took their anger out on the Nedalians with a convincing 3 - 1 victory,

The Stars struck first in the 31st minute, and went into halftime keeping their 1 - 0 lead. The first half was actually an even affair, and the Lions came out in the 2nd half insistent on keeping it that way. They equalized soon after the half had started, in the 52nd minute, through star striker Mattan, and it looked like the beginning of a full on attack by the Lions. Their hopes were quickly deflated, however, with a goal in the 59th minute by the Stars, who also put the final touches on the match in the 87th minute to round up the victory.

The Nedalians now sit in 3rd place, 3 points had of the Nova Britannicusians, and will be hoping that they will not be able to manage to get the full 3 points in their next match.

Posted by: Sarzonia May 9 2005, 09:16 PM

Stars slam Lions, await Blades

Sarzonia's second choice national football team has played like a team making up for lost time after a one tournament absence from the AOCAF. They gave newcomers Nedalia a lesson in first class football, striking for two second half goals to deflate the Lions efforts at securing a spot in the knockouts and winning 3-1.

"We were a little bit ragged in the second half, and that's something we're going to have to address," Coach Bryson Juergens said. "We started to regroup well after that goal so I'm looking forward to seeing us play a lot better against Starblaydia."

Sarzonia jumped out on top first after defencive midfielder Larry Grieg won a corner by outfighting two Lions for the football. Owen Manson sent a left-footed endswinger into the box where defender Peter Salivani skied for a header. Forward Roy Spencer banged the rebound through for his first goal of the tournament 31 minutes in.

"It was frustrating, no doubt," Spencer said. "But I'm glad we're 3-0 right now."

However, the Stars couldn't maintain the momentum against the underdog Lions. Midfielder Nene took advantage of a poor clear attempt by defender Jeffrey Raven, volleying a ball past Marco Taglianetti for a goal just seven minutes after the second half kickoff began.

"Poor job by everyone around," forward Kevin Wilson said.

Wilson made up for the defencive blunder with his offencive exploits, blitzing past the Nedalia defence to slam home the eventual game winner in the 59th minute. He assisted on the final goal, a marker by reserve midfielder Steve Sanderson.

The Stars prepare to play a senior national team match against Starblaydia in the final act of the AORDO qualifying stages. A Sarzonian win or draw would clinch the group title and a bye during the second round of the playoffs. A loss would give the title to Starblaydia. Despite the first choice team's Round of 16 bout with Starblaydia, these Stars aren't worried about supporters being distracted.

"We're getting the stage to ourselves," Juergens said. "Then the first choice team plays later. We just want to make sure we get something out of at least one of the matches."

Posted by: Fmjphoenix May 10 2005, 12:27 AM

Chocobos defeat Nova Roma. Look to Cockbill Street to advance

With a 2-1 victory over young guns Nova Roma, the Fmjphoenix region squad is within steps of their first time into the second round of the AOCAF. All it will take is a win over Cockbill Street coupled with a loss by Lamoni. It is not the best situation, but it is the closest the Chocobos have come to qualifying. Look for them to come out with everything they have against the Streetians.

Posted by: Cockbill_Street May 11 2005, 09:45 AM

Street Contrive To Need Second Round
WHY ON EARTH?!

After sweeping aside all opposition with a goal-scoring record Karela lines would be proud of (and hence denounced by most Streetians), Cockbill Street's strikers went on collective strike in the last match of the AOCAF group stage against Fmjphoenix, resulting in a 0-1 loss which will mean a match-up with Bedistan at the Griffin Park in Cefn.

Interestingly, the Bedistani have failed to come up with a squad for this tournament, and have generally struggled their way through. A late equaliser against Florianopolis sent them into third place, just ahead of Tonissia, and they would have been knocked out if Tonissia had done the job and beaten Salmantic. They are arguably the weakest side in the second round, but the opposition the Street will face should they beat Bedistan is fearsome. Fernando di Marco's Starblaydians are ranked first in the tournament, and are widely assumed to be favourites. By contrast, Cockbill Street's assorted ragbags from the Compound League, with an average age of well below 25, look relatively weak - and with Druida usually bringing bad luck for the Street as well, there seems to be little hope.

COCKBILL STREET 0
FMJPHOENIX 1 (Culo 18)

Posted by: Fmjphoenix May 11 2005, 11:20 AM

Chocobo get a little luck, defeat Cockbill Street, Lamoni loses

Shaka Culo scored his first goal for Fmjphoenix, and it was not only the only one needed, but one that was needed at the right time. He scored an early goal at the 18th minute to put Fmjphoenix up over Cockbill Street. Then thanks to the supurb goalkeeping of Erin Charters, the few shots the Chocobo defenders allowed Cockbill Street to take we each deflected away or caught. It was the type of match the Chocobo's needed to play to show that they can be as good as the other teams in Fmjphoenix.

But what made this victory so great for the Chocobo's was Lamoni's loss to Crystilakere. With that, Fmjphoenix retained third place in their group to advance to the second round for the first time in the AOCAF. Their first round opponent will be no walk over though. They must face hosts Druida. It wil not be an easy match, but the Chocobos will come playing their hearts out to try and advance as far as they can in their first try.

Posted by: Bedistan May 11 2005, 01:02 PM

BSD - The Bedistan Sports Digest - Atlantian Oceania Edition

B-team weak in AOCAF, barely through to knockouts

DRUIDA -- With all the hubbub going on at the World Cup in Vilita and the re-emergence of the Bedistan Premier League, many sports fans seem to have forgotten about the existence of our regional tournament, the AOCAF. But, of course, with Bedistan's B-team not being anywhere close to the caliber of the A-team, it's a wonder that we've made it through the group stage at all. Nobody would think that the current world champions would be reduced to a draw against Florianopolis ("Who?" you ask? My point exactly), but it happened and somehow Bedistan just managed to sneak a third-place finish despite picking up only five points from five matches, compared with 12 for Druida and a perfect 15 for Vilita. Apart from those two, competition has been weak, with Florianopolis, Tonissia, and Salmantic playing football equally as uninspired as our own, but our AOCAF days are now numbered as we head to the second round to face Cockbill Street, where we are expected to have no chance at all.

We tried to get some opinions from people on the street, but nobody appeared to have any idea what was going on. Oh well.

Posted by: Starblaydia May 11 2005, 01:27 PM

Catch a Falling Star
Sarzonian Penalty Claims Bring Starblaydi Derision

Nelson de Montford and Ilias Provatidis gave Starblaydia a perfect four-for-four record in the Southern Conference.

Sarzonia, more than any other team in Atlantian Oceania, they could perhaps best be described as Starblaydia's 'Regional Rivals'. So why do we keep beating them? In AOCAFs 2, 4, 5 and now 8, Sarzonia have completely failed to beat Starblaydia, with their best result being a 0-0 in one of the three matches we played in AOCAF4.

Though the defending of Loze, Tobias et al could have been described as 'physical', the consistent appeals for foul play by the Sarzonian players were met with no kind of sympathy from the referee, though TV replays would suggest they had a case on more than one occasion.

So it was the streak continued, as Starblaydia leapfrogged their rivals into 1st place and a Conference-winning spot, with a direct path into the Quarter-Finals. Starblaydia will there face Cockbill Street or Bedistan, and we'll fully preview that match once Starblaydia's opponents have been confirmed.

Posted by: Vilita May 12 2005, 02:02 AM

Vilita 2-0 Salmantic
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Vilita Goalscorers::
56' Serge DuPont
61' Sylvain Emeka-Tuai
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-------------------Serge DuPont was gifted with one of the coolest gifts a first time international manager could ever have received. None other than a first time international team as his opponent. The regional cats kicked off AOCAF VIII with a match against space-crazy resurrectees Salmantic, the third incarnation. The Salmantic force was one of the longest standing in all of Atlantian Oceania, but long periods of absenses had kept them out of previous AOCAF competitions. With little surprise, DuPont named himself alongside Vilitan Under-21 hot shot Julian Lisbie in the starting lineup. One of the surprising choices, however, was the selection of Hecia's Alioum Mane over budding young Makosile keeper Jawz Oaker. Other Starblaydia-Based Vilitans, Tulio Arizmendi, Toby Tzikas, Rueben Laberge and Contall Rumaoa all found themselves in the starting lineup with a chance to impress on Jungle Cats manager Helmut Vilkaous, who would be reviewing the entire competition match by match.

The Starblaydi-Influenced side got off to a slow start and the first half was much of a bore. Neither side had much in the way of chances, and with whispers of failure against a team such as Salmantic, half time changes were aplenty for first-time manager DuPont. Tzikas and Marine Coast United defender Petros Alfieri made way as Strike's Sylvain Emeka-Tuai was introduced to add an attacking presence to the midfield, while the experienced foot of Calaesa Mitaroka was sure to settle the game down and create some chances for the AOCAF VI champions. Mitaroka teamed up with Tournetas' Contall Rumaoa just 10 minutes after play resumed to create the first golden chance of the day for Vilita. Head coach and experienced Strike FC forward Serge DuPont was not going to miss this gifted chance at adding to his record 17 goals in regional competition and was all smiles as the ball hit the back of the net. DuPont got further reason to smile just minutes later when halftime introductee Sylvain Emeka-Tuai spun his marker and ripped a rocket of a strike from 25 yards that the Salmantic keeper had no chance to grab. The goal all but secured the three points for Vilita, who would hold on to take the 2-0 Victory.

Full Time Analysis:

Vilita

Best Player: Contall Rumaoa
Worst Player: Julian Lisbie
Shots on Target: 7
Corner Kicks: 5

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Vilita Jungle Cats (3-5-2) ::
[GK] Alioum Mané, [D] Petros Alfieri, [D] Kagiso Alfieri-Molali, [D] Tulio Arizmendi, [DMC] Michele Mariano, [ML] Toby Tzikas, [MC] Sublé Tonic, [MC] Rueben Laberge, [MR] Contall Rumaoa, [FC] Julian Lisbie, [FC] Serge DuPont,
BENCH::
[FC] Kris Wrice, [FC] Tristam Bumbar, [M] Sylvain Emeka-Tuai, [M] Calaesa Mitaroka, [U] Malovar Stokks, [D] Ricata Tivalan, [GK] Jawz Oaker,

Vilita Substitutions::
(45) - Petros Alfieri >>> Calaesa Mitaroka
(45) - Toby Tzikas >>> Sylvain Emeka-Tuai
(61) - Tulio Arizmendi >>> Kris Wrice

Posted by: Vilita May 12 2005, 02:14 AM

Vilita 5-1 Florianapolis
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Vilita Goalscorers::
3' Serge DuPont
19' Calaesa Mitaroka
21' Serge DuPont
26' Kagiso Alfieri-Molali
28' Serge DuPont
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-------------------Despite the victory over Salmantic, Player/Coach Serge DuPont was ready to make changes to ensure he had the best squad out there, using the virtual walkover against the untrained Florianapolis Crab Cats as a play ground. DuPont rewarded the strong performance of Calaesa Mitaroka by starting the 34 year old two-time Champions League medal holder on the left of midfield, while addint the experienced Teariki Mane of Eastal Lunar and Malovar Stokks, who recently joined the upstart league in Spruitland, to add experience to the midfield. A poor performance by Vilitan Under-21 Julian Lisbie against Salmantic gave DuPont no choice but to had 18 year old Kris Wrice the start.

This time, DuPont wasted little time showing his players how to get the job done, latching on to one of Vilita's 30 total Corner Kicks in the matchup just 3 minutes in to open the scoring. The ball, delivered by Calaesa Mitaroka, was easily steered in by DuPont who had acres of space inside the box. A second Mitaroka corner kick 15 minutes later, already Mitaroka's 5th taken corner of the game, found the back of the net with no help from a teammate, Mitaroka's curling effort rising high above the leaping cats, regional and crab, and sneaking in at the far post to the delight of the Yeaddin Owls veteran. The flood gates started to open as Serge DuPont grabbed his second of the game, before yet another Mitaroka corner was converted, this time off the head of defender Kagiso Alfieri-Molali. Just before half an hour, DuPont completed a remarkable 25 minute Hat-Trick of goals, this one coming from open play as the 34 year old was seen through by Mitaroka's crafty short pass before easily rounding the keeper. Vilita took the 5-0 lead into half time, but the second half introduction of Contall Rumaoa seemed to disrupt the backline and Florianapolis snatched a late goal to reduce the final deficit to 5-1 in favor of the regional cats.

Full Time Analysis:

Vilita

Best Player: Serge DuPont
Worst Player: Michele Mariano
Shots on Target: 20
Corner Kicks: 30

Opponents

Shots on Target: 4
Corner Kicks: 7

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Vilita Jungle Cats (3-5-2) ::
[GK] Alioum Mané, [D] Kagiso Alfieri-Molali, [D] Tulio Arizmendi, [D] Petros Alfieri, [DMC] Michele Mariano, [ML] Calaesa Mitaroka, [MC] Malovar Stokks, [MC] Teariki Mané, [MR] Rueben Laberge, [FC] Serge DuPont, [FC] Kris Wrice
BENCH::
[FC] Julian Lisbie, [FC] Carmine Mbidzo, [M] Toby Tzikas, [M] Sublé Tonic, [U] Contall Rumaoa, [D] Emarka Laniora, [GK] Jawz Oaker,

Vilita Substitutions::
(61) - Kagiso Alfieri-Molali >>> Contall Rumaoa

Posted by: Spruitland May 12 2005, 02:54 AM

“Sir, I really think this is a bad idea.”

“Nonsense, Martin. These are civilized people, they’ll recognize common sense when they see it.”

Martin Backer, President of the Spruitland Football Association, was finding it increasingly difficult not to lose his temper and shout that the Minister of Sports wouldn’t recognize common sense if it kicked him in the balls. But he was rather fond of his job, so he ground his teeth and took a deep breath.

“But Sir, even if they do agree – which they won’t – we don’t even have a team yet!”

“Well, then I guess you better get moving, Martin.”

Backer swallowed the insult off the tip of his tongue, turned on his heels, and left. Olav Nett, Spruitland’s Minister of Sports, was oblivious to the slamming door. He finished up his email, ran it through the DiplomacyChecker, and sent it with a smile.

CODE

Greetings,

It has come to our attention that the AOCAF VIII has already started, without waiting for the Kingdom of Spruitland to arrive in the region.

We’re sure this is just a minor oversight, so we’re willing to refrain from feeling all insulted and stuff. Naturally, the AOCAF hosts will be more than eager to rectify this error, so we’d like to inform you that the Spruitland national football team will gladly accept the offer to advance immediately to the Second Round of the tournament.

Would you be so kind as to inform us who will be removed from the competition to make room for us, so we can send them a basket of assorted vegetables, as a token of our appreciation? (We would like to suggest that we take the spot of either Starblaydia or Vilita, since they’ve both won the tournament in the past and surely don’t need another trophy.)

Much obliged,

Olav Nett
Minister of Sports
Spruitland

Posted by: Sarzonia May 12 2005, 12:16 PM

Stars stumped in loss

The last time the Sarzonian national team celebrated a win over Starblaydia in a football match, the team was en route to a playoff loss to former world powers Europa Brittania in a heartbreaking 0-1 defeat at Hendrix Stadium in Woodstock. That 20 year streak still hasn't ended, as Starblaydia's footballers took advantage of poor officiating to defeat the Stars 2-0 and claim the top seed in the Southern Conference.

The loss sends the Stars (3-0-1, nine points) into a second round match against Turori, the world's seventh ranked team in the most recent world rankings released before the World Cup finals. Coach Bryson Juergens is saying the team will "have our hands full," with Turori.

"That's going to be tough to come back from, losing 2-0 to the defending AOCAF champions and then facing the seventh ranked team in the world. We're going to have to overcome those odds."

Sarzonia couldn't get any offence going, as the Starblaydis roughed up forward Kevin Wilson repeatedly. Juergens drew a yellow card for dissent that led to one goalscoring opportunity and accosted the officials after the match.

"Where the hell are those guys from? Xile?" When he found out Druidan officials were working the match, he asked sardonically, "how many pies did those damn Blades give 'm?"

Incorporated Football Federation officials are expecting a fine and possibly a suspension for Juergens, but Chairman Terry Mangione said if the Stars first choice team loses to Starblaydia in the World Cup finals Round of 16 match, Dave Wilson will coach the rest of the way.

"We need someone who's going to be able to get the job done without distractions," Mangione said. "Dave's proven himself time and again."

Posted by: Starblaydia May 12 2005, 12:43 PM

Somewhere in Liverpool Englnad...

CODE

...we’d like to inform you that the Spruitland national football team will gladly accept the offer to advance immediately to the Second Round of the tournament.

Would you be so kind as to inform us who will be removed from the competition to make room for us, so we can send them a basket of assorted vegetables, as a token of our appreciation? (We would like to suggest that we take the spot of either Starblaydia or Vilita, since they’ve both won the tournament in the past and surely don’t need another trophy.)

Much obliged,

Olav Nett
Minister of Sports
Spruitland

"I'll -explicitive removed-ing kill him!" Lord Rikaard Van Honjiik yelled. "That little rat-bastard better watch his back!"

"Calm down, Rikaard," Nikola "Laser" Lazerevski, his 'assistant' said, "these people are quite blatantly mentalists. Like Latao, only they do sports."

"I'll get Tiberius to invade them too!" the Minister for Sport continued, "Right after we do Latao!"

"Will you shut up?" Nikola said, angered, "you could tell by his President's hat that they were foolish, just ignore them."

"But-"

"But nothing!" Nikola yelled, "now go and run 'round the block a few times."

"Yes, Nikola."

Posted by: Salmantic May 12 2005, 01:20 PM

VICTORY SHADOWED BY VIOLENCE

The recent win by Salmantic in the AOCAF led to riots in the streets. Although the Salmantic Swashbucklers were 0-4 going into what was certainly the last game of the season, a record 80% of the population tuned into the game (the game was broadcasted on all television channels). As the first half drew to an end things were starting to look some-what interesting. "we couldn't believe it, we werent loosing", said Everett Harkinson of Saltania, "we had to just have another drink, or two, or 6." This seemed to be the general attitude of the nation as liqour stores and bars were inundated towards the end of the game. As the game came to an end and it was enevitable that victory was at hand. the people flocked to the streets to party. Salmantic pride was once again strong!

This was all well and good until an unruly bunch of extrodinarily drunk fans in Saltania decided it would be fun to urinate on the police cruisers. The ever-ready police force was not pleased and soon began crowd dispersment techniques. the crowd reacted by throwing pebbles which resulted in live-fire force being approved by the regional commander of police, Commander Harold Strunferd, in Saltania. There are approximated to be 20 fatalities and 110 wounded, mostly in critical but stable condition. A true testament to the skill and restraint by the Ministry of Police. As news spread of the events in Saltania the mobs that had taken to most of the streets in Salmantic retreated back to their homes.

Commander Strunferd will recieve the Black Star medal for disciplinary reverement. The city of Saltania will recieve no punishment for the actions of the few, as it is perfectly understandable that these things happen.

Posted by: Druida May 12 2005, 06:10 PM

QUOTE (Spruitland @ May 12 2005, 08:54 AM)

CODE

President Smith: "What the devil is this? Spruitland want to enter at the second round?"

Unnamed helper: "That's absurd! I mean, it's not as if we didn't delay the thing long enough just to get more sign-ups that didn't come. The sheer cheek of it!"

President Smith: "I mean, as a nation we are pretty stupid, but this? Hah!"

CODE

Dear Mr. Nett,

We received your proposition about entering AOCAF VIII at this somewhat belated stage. I must say, my helper and I haven't laughed so much since the Latin ambassador's dog did something unpleasant with my left leg.

Actually come to think of it, that was rather distressing. But my helper laughed.

Still, at least enter AOCAF IX when it comes around. Who knows, we may even visit Spruitland for such a tournament in the future!

Yours Giggling,
President Margaret Smith
The United Lands of Druida

Posted by: Spruitland May 12 2005, 08:28 PM

QUOTE (Druida @ May 12 2005, 06:10 PM)

CODE

To: President Margaret Smith, Druida
From: Thomas Vanderbeek, Minister of Defense, Spruitland

President Smith,

Dear Margaret,

May I call you Margaret? It’s such a pretty name. My ex-wife has a sister named Margaret, and she has the prettiest eyes. But, I digress.

Margaret, I’ve been given the rather unpleasant task of replying to your most courteous letter to Mr. Nett and, much as I’d like to, I’m afraid I’m unable to refuse that task. Not if I don’t want some rather unfavorable pictures sent to the press, at least.

However, perhaps it’s not such a bad thing, since I can at least control the content of this message now. If Mr. Nett was to reply in person, his tone would undoubtedly have been a bit harsher than mine. Some men can be so insensitive, don’t you agree?
Luckily, Mr. Nett realized the content of his message was not his department’s responsibility, so he contacted me.

So, off the record, I’d like to congratulate you on taking Mr. Nett’s request in a light-hearted manner. (And I do hope your left leg didn’t suffer permanent damage. Did you wear trousers at the time, or do you like wearing skirts?)

Anyway, Margaret, I suggest we don’t take Mr. Nett too seriously. His attention span is rather limited, so he’ll likely have forgotten all about this in a few days.
If he should ever happen to ask, though, please tell him I used a lot of fancy words and mentioned huge numbers of tanks and bombers. Thank you so much, dear, you’re a peach!

Yours,

Thomas Vanderbeek (call me Tom)

PS. If the Druidan football team does visit Spruitland at some point, I do hope you'll come along.

Posted by: Druida May 13 2005, 05:49 AM

QUOTE (Spruitland @ May 13 2005, 02:28 AM)

Dear Tom,

I am relieved to hear that the first correspondence was just a light-hearted jape. However, I am most worried that you think I am a woman, or at least like to dress up in women's clothing. I suggest you look up your history before you go making such assumptions.

Dear oh dear.

Still, I'll stick up for you if Mr. Nett gets back to us.

Thanks
President (Mr.) Margaret (Formerly Trevor) Smith
Non-Transvestite President of
The United Lands of Druida

Posted by: Spruitland May 13 2005, 08:56 AM

Minister of Defense off the deep end?

Thomas Vanderbeek (42), Spruitland’s Minister of Defense, never did put much effort into hiding his predilection for members of the opposite sex. While this has never hurt his popularity with the Spruitland public – in fact, recent polls indicate over 80% of Vanderbeek’s voters are female – after last night’s events, this attitude is expected to change.

Vanderbeek was spotted in the Saggy Titty Club in Fonstown, in itself not an unusual event, but even the Club’s regular customers were a little taken aback when, after copious amounts of alcohol, the Minister of Defense jumped onto the stage and tried to force himself upon Candy, one of the star pole dancers. Vanderbeek was forcibly removed by the Club’s security personnel and was later witnessed running naked through Fonstown, chasing after random female passers-by, shouting he “only wanted to confirm his manhood.”

Sources indicate a mental breakdown might be the cause of Vanderbeek’s excessive behavior, claiming he was “already acting weird” at a meeting of the Naval Defense Committee earlier that day. The Minister of Defense was said to not have been his “usual, flirty self”, but displayed a high level of animosity and suspicion towards the female members of the Committee, repeatedly trying to “cop a frontal feel”. Vanderbeek left the Committee meeting after being struck down by Major Brunilda Zilwicki, and apparently headed straight for the Saggy Titty Club.

The Minister of Defense was detained by the FTPD and transferred to the Fonstown Naval Hospital where he is currently under psychiatric evaluation. Prime Minister Jeremy Dekkers refused to comment on the events and what the consequences will be for Vanderbeek’s political career.

Posted by: Nedalia May 13 2005, 09:44 AM

Lions Prey on Legalese, Look Forward to Vilitian Feast

The Nedalia Lions senior squad is rapidly becoming known around the country as “that team that could defeat anyone…but usually don’t” due to their inconsistency. Against Legalese, to the delight of the entire nation, it was the team that could dazzle spectators that showed up.

Participating in 2 tournaments simultaneously has seemed like a bad call by the Nedalian FA, considering the mediocre performances shown by the Lions in the Cup of Harmony tournament. It seems, however, that the team is finally beginning to respond to manager Randy Gamman’s angry tirades which some say could cost him his job. Going into the AOCAF 2nd round matchup with Legalese, it was said that Gamman, after leading the U21 side to the finals in U21 World Cup 14, had lost his touch, failing to qualify for WC 22 in dismal fashion, and with a loss here, serious questions were to be asked of the manager’s capabilities.

No such questions are needed, not after the impressive 2 – 1 victory for Nedalia over a much more experienced Legalese side in what is the toughest regional tournament in the universe. The Lions came out with a passion and a will to dominate, and even after going down one goal thanks to a rare blunder from goalkeeper Derrell Lynch, they continued to press, refusing to let the morale down. They were repaid for their effort in a dominating 2nd half performance, seemingly wearing the Legalese defense down, finally scoring 2 goals in 10 minutes. The first came by way of Chris Yamtech, the Shoreland United striker, who hit in through a marvelous shot taken just outside the box in the 72nd minute. The 2nd goal came by way of reserve striker Tim James, who had come on for Mattan, scoring in the 81st after a beautiful display of passing between himself, Nene, and another substitute, Innit Point.

After the final whistle had sounded, Nedalian fans stormed the Away Ground pitch, celebrating with their heroes. The festivities continued throughout the night in Port Scadock, with lots of drunk Nedalians reportedly aggravating the local population. For the team, however, the festivities were short-lived, as their training begins all over again. They have to prepare for a Vilitian side that looks to be one of the favorites to winning the whole thing, sweeping their group stage rivals with 5 wins in 5 games, conceding only 1 goal in the process. For now, however, the Lions have done their fans proud, going a long way to restore some faith in this inconsistent team.

Posted by: Sarzonia May 13 2005, 04:35 PM

Stars, Wilson stab Eels, 1-0

After a brief controversy surrounding the coaching job that Bryson Juergens was doing with the second choice Sarzonian national team, Juergens was on the sidelines for the second round match against highly-ranked Turori after the Dave Wilson-coached first team defeated Starblaydia. Juergens guided his Stars to a 1-0 win over the Eels as Wilson prepared to coach the team against Turori in the World Cup quarterfinals.

"You just block out everything," Juergens said. "I went out there and just focused on coaching football. We've got a job left to do here and the senior team has its job left to do [in Legalese]."

Forward Kevin Wilson, the younger son of Dave Wilson's, scored the only goal in the 69th minute as forward John Clinton was waiting on the sidelines to substitute in for Wilson. He skied over the two Eels defenders who marked him and fired a header into the upper right corner of the net.

"I knew if play stopped I was coming out," Kevin Wilson said. "I wanted to leave the match with something to be remembered by."

The Stars defence, which betrayed the team in their 2-0 loss to Starblaydia in the final match of the group stages, was back to its stellar ways, limiting Turori to just four shots, only one of them on goalkeeper Marco Taglianetti. The Stars fired 21 shots, eight on goal and won the possession battle 51-39.

"It's about time we started playing to our potential," Taglianetti said. "Now we have to continue that against Crystilakere."

The two neighbours continue their intense football rivalry with a quarterfinals match as the Stars attempt to win their first-ever AOCAF tournament. Juergens said the team isn't thinking that far ahead.

"We've got to beat the Crystils," Juergens said. "Everything else is moot if we don't win that match."

Posted by: Krytenia May 13 2005, 10:06 PM

There's An AOCAF On?

Once again, the Caley B-side are doing well in the AOCAF tournament. Once again, they have been overshadowed by the failings of the A-side in the World Cup.

But no longer. The somewhat ablative side of Smith & Ulvæus are on the victory trail once more. Finishing top of their group and qualifying directly for the quarter finals, they face hosts Druida with a spot in the last four at stake.

Posted by: Starblaydia May 14 2005, 02:52 PM

A 5th Semi-Final in Eight Attempts
Starblaydia not lost at this Stage in AOCAF

Julio Matis' winning goal, his first touch of the match, gave Starblaydia a vital third goal as they defeated Cockbill Street in the Quarter-Finals of AOCAF8

The comradeship between many ofthe players on both sides at Cranbury Park Lane, particularly between Starblaydi Hurin Menegroth and his Streetian counterparts Al-Axeweilder and Co., was plain to see, showing that the intense rivalry between these teams is becoming one of mutual respect, rather than one of bitter hatred.

Striker Michalis Mitrofanis and right-midfielder Ryan Kovac scored Starblaydia's first two goals, bringing them level with a Cockbill Street side brimming with, um, talent. It was the timely introduction of Nedalian Premier League's top scorer Julio Matis that changed the game for the Starblaydi better, as he got the outside of his right boot to a Mitrofanis cross-come-shot, putting them into an unassailable three goals to two lead.

Sixteen years ago Starblaydia were on home soil as they faced the Champion NEWI Cefn Druids in the final of AOCAF4. Now, Champions Starblaydia face the successors to the Druidish crown, Druida, in Druida in the Semi-Final. Will the tables have turned on Starblaydia come Semi-Final day in Graymouth? This will remain to be seen.

Posted by: Starblaydia May 16 2005, 10:30 AM

AOCAF6 Final Redux
Starblaydia meet Vilita again

Seemingly cruising to a 2-0 Semi-Final win over hosts Druida has catapulted Starblaydia into a third straight AOCAF final, a second against Vilita.

Some eight years ago Starblaydia defeated Turori 3-0 in the Semi-Final of AOCAF6 and went on to the Final to meet Vilita. There, as it turned out, Vilita won their first - and only - AOCAF title in a 1-0 Victory.

Yesterday, Starblaydia defeated Turori 3-0 in the Semi-Final of AOCAF8 and now go on to the Final to meet Vilita. A Starblaydia-Vilita Final? Again? Why can'y amyone else in AO have a chance of winning the Title? In seven Championships, as we all know, only NEWI Cefn Druids, Starblaydia and Vilita have ever won the title. Where are the Sarzonias, the Crystilakeres, the Cockbill Streets, Bedistans and - god forbid - the Lamonis?

Three different winners in Eight Championships? It's becoming a ClAOsed shop. Oh, and by the way, Delgado, Provatidis and substitute Menegroth scored Starblaydia's goals as they brushed off the Druidan challenge.

Posted by: Vilita May 16 2005, 04:22 PM

Vilita 3-0 Tonissia
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Vilita Goalscorers::
8' Serge DuPont
11' Serge DuPont
19' Kagiso Alfieri-Molali
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-------------------The Regional Cats, embarrassed by their conceding of a goal to a highly unskilled and dying Florianapolianianician team battened down the hatches for the match against unranked NASCAR loving newcomers Tonissia. While head coach Serge DuPont named an identical defensive force, he made his intentions clear with his midfield selection which lacked the attacking presence of Malovar Stokks and Teariki Mane, and instead included Suble Tonic and Manolis Ipoua in what would almost have to be described as a 3-3-2-2 formation, with Julian Lisbie returning to partner the Player/Manager up top. The defensive formation did it's job as Alioum Mane spent more time talking to the fans than he did paying attention to the match. When the 90 minutes were up the Tonissians had not recorded a single shot on goal. The Regional Cats, on the other hand, buried the game inside 20 minutes with a trio of goals that left Tonissia demoralized and braced to crash out of the competition early in their first attempt. DuPont took matters into his own hands netting twice inside 11 minutes to open the scoring, before Suble Tonic placed a well fashioned Corner Kick right to the head of the towering Kagiso Alfieri-Molali who crushed the ball into the back of the net. While DuPont was pleased with the performance, he did indicate that with tough matches against Bedistan and Druida yet to come, changes were imminent.

Full Time Analysis:

Vilita

Best Player: Sublé Tonic
Shots on Target: 12
Corner Kicks: 12

Opponents

Shots on Target: 0
Corner Kicks: 0

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Vilita Jungle Cats (3-5-2) ::
[GK] Alioum Mané, [D] Kagiso Alfieri-Molali, [D] Tulio Arizmendi, [D] Petros Alfieri, [DMC] Michele Mariano, [ML] Sublé Tonic, [MC] Rueben Laberge, [MC] Calaesa Mitaroka, [MR] Manolis Ipoua, [FC] Julian Lisbie, [FC] Serge DuPont,
BENCH::
[FC] Kris Wrice, [FC] Lai Ncube, [M] Teariki Mané, [M] Contall Rumaoa, [U] Sylvain Emeka-Tuai, [D] Timmy Leaburn, [GK] Jawz Oaker,

Posted by: Druida May 22 2005, 10:20 AM

The Daily Druid

AOCAF FINAL GOES UNNOTICED
Starblaydia won, by the way...

The final of the eighth AOCAF between Vilita and Starblaydia went by unnoticed by many across the region, it was revealed yesterday.

For those readers who didn't notice, it did actually take place three months ago at The Hole in Mawr, with the Starbladi team overcoming the Vilitans on a penalty shoot-out after one of the most thrilling games the cup has ever seen.

However, nobody saw it. The biggest T.V. audience for the event outside the host nation of Druida was in Spruitland, where people were angry that their teasm hadn't made it to the final, despite not even being in it at the group stage.

Indeed, reports of the final in both of the nations taking part have never materialised. A technical problem in Starblaydia meant that their coverage, which was amongst the most comprehensive in the region, didn't bring the final to it's people, while the Vilitan reports seem to have been delivered by carrier pidgeon, what with them appearing a substantial time after the games themselves have taken place. I guess the pidgeons must have not been able to make it over the water.

So anyway, for those of you across the region who didn't know already, well, now you do! And Druida came fourth for the second time in three cups, so we don't have too much to complain about here either. w00t!