|
|
|
|
RP Cutoff for Matchday Three |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
, |
 |
|
|
|
Manhattan Herald – 14th January 2007
Latest report from AOCAF 18
Against Blue Foxes, Manhattan Prime have had their Chips
Group D – Manhattan Prime 2:5 Pacitalia
Manhattan Prime: Dreygo 30mins, Katakana 59mins
Pacitalia : Mascagnano 4, 24 (pen), 52mins / Giurimano 68, 79mins
In an match eagerly anticipated by fans of both teams, Manhattan Prime kicked off AOCAF 18 in the city of Lahar, Myrtannia with their first ever fixture against close allies Pacitalia.
The match had special significance for young Manhattanite striker Vykk Dreygo, who earned his first cap today. Dreygo, the son of prominent Senator Artemis Dreygo, even capped the performance with a debut goal.
The game took place in an air of general friendliness, with no trouble being reported from either sets of supporters, and reports of Pacitalian fans and Manhattanite fans (known affectionately as Chippers in Pacitalia for our famous British cuisine, including mouth-watering fish and chips) meeting up before and after the game for friendly drinks. Many new friends were made for both sides, and it just proves once more that sport can unite people of different cultures as well as divide them. Thus far this AOCAF has been very peaceful in nature, and incidents like this are by now means isolated – the similar camaraderie at the Lamoni – Az-Cz game immediately springs to mind. We’ve even heard the sections of the Manhattanite support have adopted the title as an unofficial nickname, and several ‘Chippers’ banners were seen at the game.
Manhattan Prime started brightly, with manager Ian Pierce played his strongest side against the highly rated Blue Foxes, who come fresh from a draw with the Nojikan team.
With upsets aplenty in this AOCAF-gone-mad that has seen the Starblaydi’s defeated twice and both Nedalia and Vilita & Turori lose their opening fixtures, it seemed anything could happen, and both team and fans were full of confidence.
Both sides quickly got stuck in to what proved to a very fast-paced and skillful game – with first blood going to the Pacitalians, as 28 year old midfielder Michelangelo Mascagnano burst through a tight packed Chips defense in the 4th minute, exchanging a quick 1-2 pass with CF Mandragora teammate Giurimano before flicking the ball under Clive Hilton in the Manhattanite goal.
Stung early, Manhattan Prime tried to sit back more, and build their attacks slowly. The Chippers backline keep a wave of Pacitalian attacks away until Mascagnano again broke through and was prevented from rounding the keeper by an ill-timed tackle by center back John Clarke. There seemed to be no malicious intent in the tackle, but it was clear Clarke had taken the ball and not the man, and so found himself booked, and having given away a penalty, which the skillful Mascagnano lashed into the corner of the net for his second goal of the game.
Already 2-0 down in the early stages of the game, Manhattan Prime didn’t give up and showed more of the gritty determination we’re used to seeing from them, coupled with fast-paced counter attacks. In the 30th minute some clever moves from captain Katakana unleashed new boy Vykk Dreygo in the Pacitalian box. After beating a defender the new Manhattan Phantoms signing, already being described by many as a rookie sensation, slammed the ball past Raduvani to cut the Pacitalian lead and to ensure this will be a debut to remember for him.
The 18 year old ran straight to the Manhattanite end to find himself mobbed by delirious Chippers fans, and will not doubt be hearted to hear many Pacitalian fans also sportingly applauding his efforts.
In the 2nd half Manhattan Prime seemed to be pushing for a vital equalizer, with tight defending needed to keep out several dangerous looking corners in the Pacitalian box. However disaster struck in the 52nd minute as after one such corner the Chippers found themselves losing possession and vulnerable to a lightning counter attack from Bedistan-based midfielder Vunghiasso. Some tight passing beat the Manhattanite wall to find Mascagnano lurking at the back post, who promptly thumped the ball into the top-right corner to seal his hat trick.
As the stadium’s PA system announced that it was the first hat trick of the player’s career, Manhattanite fans returned the favour, by joined the ecstatic Blue Foxes in celebrating the milestone.
Again our boys were to find themselves 3-1 behind, but they were not beaten yet. Barely minutes later the Manhattanites had pulled off a neat counter attack of their own, emulating the Pacitalian move to find Katakana waiting to stroke the ball home from close range. Tension was building in the match with Blue Foxes fans hoping their team would hold on whilst Manhattanites prayed for an equalizer, and a valuable point.
Sadly it wasn’t to be with striker Giurimano slamming a stunning cross with marvelous precision, and then sliding a 2nd past Hilton with 11 minutes to spare to put the game beyond any doubt.
"Yes, this is a loss, and no, we're not happy to lose by that much," Manhattan Prime captain Yosh¡to Katakana said post-match, speaking to the PBC. "But it's the first match - we have three more opportunities to win, and we'll use them."
He added: "I feel we played well out there, and we showed some very good touches. The team were looking sharp today, and although we were outplayed by a very strong Pacitalian team, we are looking to pick up some points in our next few fixtures."
The Pacitalian captain had similar praise for both his team and their opponents, commenting that "Our opponents were a solid match, too. It was fun."
With both teams in high demand for interviews, new hero Vykk Dreygo had this to say about his remarkable debut:
“I thought the team played well today, but all credit to the Pacitalian players; on their day they can seem unbeatable. Personally I’m elated. Just to be on the same pitch as players like Hilton and Clarke who I grew up watching, and players of such individual skill of Yoshi <Katakana> is a great honour. To score as well, well that’s an added bonus. It was a heavy defeat perhaps, but a respectable one, and a game in which the team gave their all.”
Of his new partnership with Katakana, Dreygo commented that “I feel we’re developing an understanding, both on and off the pitch.”
That’s certainly good news for Chippers fans, who will be needed all the help they get, as this opening match defeat leaves our boys rooted at the foot of group d and desperately needing a result against Nojika to get their AOCAF tournament underway.
Manhattan Prime Team:
Clive Hilton (GK)
Lucas Thompson (RB)
John Clarke (CB)
Karl Heinze (CB)
Hitoshi Akita (LB)
Ethan Smith (DMC)
Michael Donavan (MC)
Felix DeSilva (AML)
Mashashi Takamura (AMR)
Vykk Dreygo (S)
Yosh¡to Katakana (S)
No subs used.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
|
|
|
Manhattan Herald – 15th January 2007
Latest report from AOCAF 18
Sorry Manhattanites Fail to Convert Chances
Group D – Manhattan Prime 0:2 Nojika
Nojika : R. Greeves 58mins, A. Billet 84mins
Their second game of AOCAF 18 saw Manhattan Prime face off against Nojika, a team the Chippers have amazingly been drawn with in their last 3 AOCAFs (AOCAFs 15, 17 and now 18). Both teams had won one of those fixtures, but advantage was to go to the Nojikans who defeated Manhattan Prime 2-0 today at the Al-Zataar Olympic Field, in Salahadin City, Myrtannia.
Manager Ian Pierce decided to keep with the same team that put in such a spirited performance against Pacitalia, with the new partnership of Dreygo and Katakana being given a 2nd chance to shine.
Unfortunately today was a day that Manhattan Prime, although creating many chances, were unable to convert any of them as they fell to the greater precision of the Nojikan side.
The Chippers started cautiously, remembering perhaps that they had conceded two early goals against Manhattan Prime that had all but killed them off, and unwilling to do the same this time.
The first half was all but uneventful, with the few shots on target being easily dealt with by the respective goalkeepers, and both defences putting in a gritty performance. One of the few high points saw Felix DeSilva whip a corner in for Manhattan Prime and Dreygo connect with a header, only to be cruelly denied by the crossbar.
The 2nd half saw far more action from each team, as both sides seemed to through caution to the winds in search of a winner, with London Tigers team-mates DeSilva and Smith doing most of the running for the Manhattanites. Our boys had several more opportunities, but were let down by sloppy and rushed finishing in their desire to kill the game, and were unable to convert their chances.
Not so the Nojikans. In the 58th minute an incisive breakthrough from winger Jarrett Betance cut the Manhattan defense in two, and a neat pass allowed young Rudy Greeves to slot home with a clean finish, whilst Chippers fans suggested that perhaps their team should take notice of this example.
Stung into action, Manhattan Prime redoubled their effort, and when Takamura was pulled down in the box, fans thought their prayers had been answered. That Tokyo Firebirds regular Takamura saw his penalty saved just about summed up Manhattan Prime’s day, and somehow you got the impression that luck just wasn’t with them today.
The game was finally killed off in the 84th minute, with a free kick from 23 year old Antoine Billet after Lucas Thompson was judged to have fouled. Goalkeeper Hilton managed to get a hand to it, but only enough to push the ball into the side of his goal.
This 2nd loss of the campaign puts the team in a dire predicament. With zero points scored and Vilita and Turori up next, is time running out for Manhattan Prime?
Manhattan Prime Team:
Clive Hilton (GK)
Lucas Thompson (RB)
John Clarke (CB)
Karl Heinze (CB)
Hitoshi Akita (LB)
Ethan Smith (DMC)
Michael Donavan (MC)
Felix DeSilva (AML)
Mashashi Takamura (AMR)
Vykk Dreygo (S)
Yosh¡to Katakana (S)
No subs used.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
|
|
|
"So, how come there has been no press coverage about the AOCAF during the bye day?" grumbled Andrew Coulter.
"Because you have not done anything worthy of news coverage." retorted the secretary who was in James, sorry, Andrew Coulter's office doing some various filling. "Oh, and the Matchday report has come in. It's in your inbox." she added.
Andrew looked around, indeed his office was a mess, "How did James keep all this stuff Tidy?" he thought to himself. and then he remembered where he put his Inbox. He climbed under his desk and found a key that he had stuck under there. In a locked box on one of the shelves was his inbox, perhaps he just didn't want to get anymore paper but the secretary always managed to put things in there, how he didn't know.
Opening it up he found right on top the current match report.
39:01 [1-0] - GOAL! Ricky Yunn scored a great goal... With enough support and training, he could become the next Peter Hobble.
...
44:29 [1-1] - Nedalian Midfielder took the ball and managed to score what looked like a fluke goal from near the halfway line, inside the Bazalonian half. Just in before the half-time buzzer and the defense was caught making a rookie mistake of closing down near the end.
...
52:11 [1-2] - Nedalia's main forward took possetion of the ball in the Bazalonian half, this goal was almost a foregone conclusion. Defense needs to be worked on.
...
92:01 [2-2] - GOAL! Everett Kang, scored a goal, There was a question raised by the Nedalian team as to the legitimacy of this goal, as the siren sounded, however the referee awarded the goal and threatened to red card a Nedalian player, however it did not happen.
"So... Draw against Nedalia, not a bad result there. " stated Andrew
"Meh, The Nedalian media and crowds aren't really supporting the team. I mean there are more Bazalonians watching the Az-cz - Ereeland match than Nedalians watching their team." stated tje secretary who always seems to be floating around somewhere.
"By the way, What's going on with James Gaines?" Andrew Coulter asked
" The Public appeal is getting alot of hoax calls. There was one even that claimed that he was taken by BSIS."
Andrew laughed, "BSIS?! if anyone shouldn't have been BSIO? I dunno these conspiracy theorists."
OOC: For those not involved in the WC here is a sumarry... James Gaines was in fact working secretly with the BSIS as a young man, and so had been trained as an agent. However BSIS have determined that people are using the shrowd of the WC to launch a missle at Bazalonia from Milchama aiming at getting the two countries to war. James Gaines as a BSIS trained agent has been re-instated as an agent and is currently in Milchama battling the Terrorists. |
 |
 |
|
Bazalonia |
|
Eating A Bazalope Burger |
 |
|
|
|
Posts: 774 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
|
|
|
Az-cz Scroll
Myrtannia
Nw-Fys
Gnomes play well but show their youth in draw with Ereeland
Coming into their match the young Gnomes had been one of the pleasant suprise of the tournaments so far. Having beaten Nedalia and drawn Lamoni, they had far exceeded expectations, and coming into the match against Ereeland were expected to continue that high level of play.
However today they reminded everyone that this is still a team of young inexperienced players. The Gnomes jumped out to early control of this game and EE-Or slotted a goal home in the 9th minute. The Gnomes looked like they were going to run away with the match, but costly mistakes held them to just a draw. In the first half they squander a number of good buildups, with silly offsides, misfired shots, or ill-advised passes keeping them from extending their lead. Ereeland still being in with a shout going into the second half had to have given them confidence, and it certainly seemed to do so.
In the second half the Ereelanders started to find their footing and attack back at the Gnomes. While the defenders mostly held their ground one mistimed challenge was all it took to send Ereeland up the pitch for the equalizer. Tm-Tm made an agressive move against Tim Organ and Organ slipped to his left and went in easily to equalize the game in the 72nd minute.
Both teams pushed forward from then but neither team could find a winning goal. Despite being the better team for the whole of the match, the draw seems like a fitting result. The players learned a valuable lesson about soccer and it's ability to punish small mistakes and hopefully they'll be better as a result.
Next comes up Bazalonia, which serves as a tantalizing preview to the match in the world cup proper, which could have knockout stage births riding on it. Although the Gnomes view Bazalonians with a lot of friendliness and respect you can be quite certain that both the young Gnomes and the senior side team as well will be looking to devour some Bazalopes. |
|
|
 |
|
Az-cz |
|
Senator in Training |
|
|
|
|
|
Posts: 246 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
|
|
|
Demot Daily ~ Dynamo Dominate Debutants
With a proper four one thumping of 95X, the Dynamo move themselves into second in the group, and assure themselves of a trip to the knockouts for the second time in their first three AOCAFs. The squad also has a chance to do something that no one thought possible when the draw was announce, actually win their group. Although it is not likely, needing to defeat Milchama by two or more goals and have Starblaydia defeat Hypocria by three or more, it is at least a hope for the exuberant and excited fans back here at home who have gone Dynamo crazy of the past week. With the recent upset of Starblaydia, the fans have gone absolutely loony over the national team, and jersey sales have gone up an astonishing 125%.
Although the Dynamo did win the game, it did not look like they would in the first twenty minutes, with the debutants fighting with a bundle of energy that was not expected out of the first timers, who controlled possesion and maintained a prolonged attack in the Dynamo end which culminated in Christa Zoar feeding Marco Adams with a beautiful cross that was just beyonod the reach of Orien in the left corner. After this initial spurt of sound play and enthusiasm, the debutants began to fall apart as the Dynamo seemed to get their legs and exert their superior talent and expierence.
In the the 25th minute, Damien Dairycreek showed his age when he sent a clearing attempt directly at the dangerous Ysman. Calmly taking in the nice gift in stride, she strode by Dairycreek and spun Skokomish out of his boots and made the clear break on goal. Inexpiernce killed Banks as Ysman made her way past the 18 yard line and put in a deft shot to the far post that the youngster dove the wrong way for, and the crossbar did them no favor as the ball thumped off of it and straight down, before rolling back into the net.
Just five minutes later, another Dynamo was in on a clear break, this time the young Winchester Unitus who was able to creep free thanks to a masterful through ball from midfield maestro Masteron. Banks tried to make up for his earlier mistake by closing off the angle and making a spectacular dive when the shot came in. However for the poor youngster, the ball hit his arm, and flew upwards, looking as if it would simply go over the bar and out for a corner. It was not to be as the ball began its' decent, barely brushing the crossbar as it fell down and over the line for the Dynamo lead. They would never look back.
The half rounded out rather nicely, with the Dynamo dominating possession and setting up two good scoring chances that Banks was able to make some good saves on. The second half began, and the play got a little bogged down in the midfield, with the debutants backline showing stiff competition after the rest. Yet it was a techniqual sub by Dogood, bringing in Edmund Vorca for David Argonot, that would prove the final difference.
The youngster made an almost immediate impact the second he walked onto the pitch, with Masteron making the throw in to him, and him making his way up the wing uncontested. He waited a second as he past the 18 yard mark for a few more players to get up in the attack, before delivering a sensational cross that the captain raised high for, and placed it precicely in the bottom corner, making it impossible for Banks to even have a hope to save.
The game wound down with the Dynamo playing mostly keep away, but May Maryweather did get a wicked shot off from 25 yards out that somehow bent past Banks, off the upright, and into the net, letting the young lass have a happy 15 minutes as a sub. All in all, it was a spledid match for the Dynamo, and a show that the future is indeed bright, even the present has promise. The squad can't quite enjoy this win as much as they like, for they face the pony lovers of Milchama on the next matchday, and will need a win if they are to have a chance of taking the group's top honors.
95X - 1
Marco Adams (19)
Demot - 4
Ysman (26)
Unitus (32)
Masteron (67)
Maryweather (81)
Article by Jasmine Olyvander
This post has been edited by Demot on Jan 16 2007, 09:24 AM |
|
|
 |
|
Demot |
|
Royal Scribe |
|
|
|
|
|
Posts: 103 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
|
|
|
Nojikans ignore Kilpter
Dual Nationality starlet and AOCAF XVI final hero Kristofer Kilpter got no love from the Nojikan press after the Empire's 7-2 demolishing of one of their closest neighbors. Kilpter, who's stunning performances in AOCAF XVI led the Eel-Cat Things to the regional championship in their first attempt, now captains the regional side, and deserves all the credit after another stunning performance, netting four times against a less-than capable Nojikan squad.
However, the Nojikan press did not agree. The Nojikan's failed to credit Kilpter for his goals, leaving him out of the match report altogether and referring to the high-profile striker as "Somebody from Vilita & Turori."
Kilpter declined official comment on the matter, but is believed to have not taken this snubbing lightly. A close friend of Kilpters was quoted as saying "If we have to play those blues dopes again, Kris is going to sure as heck make sure they know who he is. If you thought four goals was embarassing, just wait until you see what Kris does to them next time around. They'll be begging for mercy. Kris was going easy on them, netting just four against them."
Vilita & Turori will now square off against winless Manhatten Prime on Matchday 4. If Vilita & Turori can pull off the victory, it will secure their passage through to the next stage of the competition despite the early upset from Aurendia. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
|
|
|
Manhattan Herald – 16th January 2007
Latest report from AOCAF 18
Will Hilton Injury Scupper Team?
Manhattan Prime’s preparations for the must-win game against highly-rated Vilita and Turori has taken a set back today with reports of an injury being picked up by Manhattanite goalkeeper Clive Hilton.
31 year old, Hilton, who has been Manhattan Prime’s first-choice keeper since the team first entered international competition, has picked up an injury in today’s training session. It is as of yet unclear the nature of this injury, but its severity is such that Hilton will be out at least for the rest of the current AOCAF, being held in Myrtannia.
With Hilton out, Manhattan Prime’s only other goalkeeper is reserve goalie Kevin Cooper of the London Tigers, and although a regular in the Manhattan Premiership, the 19 year old stopper is yet to win his first cap for his country.
With a massive test ahead, much rests on his young shoulders.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
|
|
|
from the Pacific City Courier
95X Falls to Demot
Team scores early, lags rest of the game
Myrtannia - The 95X Soccer Team lost its second game, 4-1 to the Demot Dynamo, in the AOCAF regional soccer tournament.
At 0-2 and no ties, it appears 95X is headed for an early exit in the tournament, with two games remaining - against surprisingly also 0-2 Starblaydia and 1-1 Milchama.
Marco Adams stepped out of the goalbox and onto the field for the game, making 95X's only goal 19 minutes in.
Angelia Carlson, who was handed those duties, could do little to stop an expreienced Demot team, which tied 95X a few minutes later, then took the lead outright 13 minutes after Adams' goal.
The team next plays Starblaydia, which again is also looking for their first win. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
|
|
|
Blue Foxes edge a tough Aurendian squad; clinch at least a knockout berth
Pacitalia now have three days off to regroup and prepare for the Jungle Cats
LAHAR, MYRTANNIA (PSN) -- The Blue Foxes now hold a comfortable margin over their Group D opponents through three matches, after a draw against Nojika, a fair win over Manhattan Prime and, Monday, a hair-raising but definite victory over Aurendia, 3-2. Michelangelo Mascagnano continued his torrid scoring pace, putting away his 21st international goal at just the right time to steal the draw away from the Raptors.
Defensive deadlock in the first half, coupled with mediocrity on offence by both teams, meant that the near-sellout crowd at Lahar's Locke Field waited 38 minutes for the first goal. And after a strong offensive showing against the Chippers on MD2 it was the fear of Blue Fox fans that all that powerful offence had been used up. But the first goal was Pacitalian: it came via a rocket from the foot of captain Veranace d'Amantano, who entered the box alongside fellow forward Ambrosino Giurimano but opted to take a shot instead of passing. The decision was the correct one, as the ball sailed past Raptors keeper Kevin Sullivan, to the relief and happiness of Blue Fox fans.
Their elation at taking the lead before the match median evaporated in first-half stoppage time, as one minute in, Raptors forward Chad Barrett replied with a nice, but awkward, header goal off of Jessica Colenti's corner kick. That glancing header directed the ball down to the pitch at a sharp angle, sharp enough that the ball bounced down before Raduvani's outstretched arm and rebounded up behind him, hitting the ground hard enough to sail back up to the crossbar and bounce again down into the back of the net for the equaliser. The weird goal left the Pacitalian defence stunned and a bit disappointed heading into halftime, but interim Blue Foxes manager Sergei Saganyarov was oddly forgiving about the equally odd Raptors score and urged the team to forget the goal and move onto once more pursuing the lead.
The strangely benevolent words from Saganyarov during the halftime team talk seemed to embolden the Blue Fox men to get back to offensive production and thus it was just four minutes into the second half that 24-year-old right midfielder Andreos Charisteas pocketed his first of the 18th AOCAF from a wide angle just outside the box. The left-footed shot curved around the arms of Sullivan and in, to restore the Blue Foxes' lead. But once again, a 2-1 final or better was not to be, as the anxiety of holding on for victory lasted, funnily enough, 21 minutes. Once again, the Raptors took advantage of Francesco Manzanotti's right-back blunders to equalise for the second time in the match.
Defence has been a prominent negative for the Blue Foxes in recent AOCAF tournaments: the obvious answer would be that the coaches have primarily focused on the "attack first, ask questions later" style of play. But with a flexible formation that regroups to adjust to counterattacks and usually defends well, there always seems to be one player on the back line that experiences trouble in more than one match. In AOCAF16 it was centre-back Angelo Bordellatta. He claimed to be in the best shape of his life and then-manager Lindifeu Zentrescu concurred. Thus, "Bordo" looked primed to make a stunning return to football after his drug suspension, but, then, bombed horribly on his debut -- a 0-6 horseshoeing at the hands of the Starblaydis -- being partially or totally responsible for all six goals.
Thankfully Pacitalia's offence is more than capable of handling any miscues on defence, and the Blue Foxes proved it again Monday against the Raptors. The Aurendians were determined to hold the Blue Foxes to a stunning 2-2 draw and add another match to the list of surprising upsets thus far in AOCAF18, but the sturdy, dependable Michelangelo Mascagnano, who had already pocketed four goals for the Blue Foxes so far in the tournament, stepped up to the plate and delivered for his squad and for a screaming Pacitalian half of the stadium. Seven minutes after the second Aurendian equaliser he deked out Raptors right-back Bart Sheriff with unbelievable skill, and followed it with another outstanding deke seconds later on centre-back Elana Keane. With just Sullivan left to beat he slid the ball bearing left, between the legs of the Raptors keeper to restore the Pacitalian lead for good.
Those concerned at the fact that goalkeeper Cristianu Raduvani had now let in two goals in both Blue Fox victories, and wondering openly whether Raduvani's play reflected whether the Foxes would not continue much into the knockouts were quashed by the interim Pacitalian manager.
"We should be concerned about that right side of the defence, not about Raduvani's play," Saganyarov growled post-match in a concerted jab at Manzanotti. "I have no concerns about the way Cristianu is playing and neither should you. He does all he can, and it's usually more than enough, but when the wall is weakened in front of you there's not much you can do except concentrate and bank a bit on luck."
Saganyarov admits that he is concerned about the Blue Foxes' overall play, saying "we can always play better" and that the scorelines are not reflecting the team's total effort. "If we were not running full-steam out there, all the time, I'd be mad the whole match. But we can definitely do better. We definitely can. The scorelines are not representative of the effort this team is putting into each match. All these wins are tough, hard-fought and gritty wins; this is by no means a cakewalk group and we realise that."
The Pacitalian manager also admitted to PSN reporters he will not be starting Manzanotti in the final match, saying that he is "developing into a liability, in regards to the success of the Blue Foxes in our most crucial match", and that "Manzanotti needs some time on the bench to reconnect with his abilities before he will return to the starting eleven". In his place will be Sergio San' Cristobal, who, when subbed on for Manza in the match against the Chippers on Saturday, helped lead the Foxes to their 5-2 victory.
The Blue Foxes have three days off between Aurendia and their next match, Vilita & Turori, which is being dubbed the title match of group D, similar to the Lamoni v Nedalia, Starblaydia v Hypocria and Myrtannia v Bettia matchups in the other three groups. And indeed, that might end up being literal, for if Nojika and Vilita & Turori both win Wednesday the idle Blue Foxes' four-point cushion on the favoured Jungle Cats will evaporate and they will need to at least draw with them to continue holding the group through the end of the preliminary stage.
From Lahar, Myrtannia:
Pacitalia 3 : 2 Aurendia
PAC: d'Amantano 38' / Charisteas 49' / Mascagnano 77'
AUR: Barrett 45+1' / Campbell 70'
NEXT UP: PAC (2-1-0) v n/a -- day off; AUR (1-0-1) v NOJ (1-1-0)
This post has been edited by Pacitalia on Jan 16 2007, 08:16 PM |
|
|
 |
|
Pacitalia |
|
The best place on earth. |
|
|
|
|
|
Posts: 505 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
|
|
|
Hilton the key for Prime Victory
An anonymous member of the Vilita & Turori AOCAF squad has mentioned to the media earlier today that he felt Manhattan Prime's chances to win any games this cup rested solely on the shoulders of injured goalkeeper Clive Hilton.
"Clive has looked out of place on the Manhattan Prime squad so far this cup. He's kept them in games that they had no business being a part of. If he's out, I don't think the Prime's stand a chance to win a single point, no less a game."
The player continued...
"I don't think they really could have adequate cover for him. Hilton would probably make the roster on half the Nations out here in the AOCAF, and thats saying something with the calibre of nations in the tournament. Manhattan Prime are at a huge disadvantage when you take him out of the equation"
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
|
|
|
Hawks use bye day to scout Ereeland
Sure, Lamoni used their bye date to practice; but they also got to enjoy watching the Az-Cz/Ereeland match. While the Hawks were cheering on their Az-Cz friends, they were also observing the team that would be their competition on the next match day... Ereeland. Ereeland and the Free Republic have friendly relations, but don't expect that to keep Lamoni for going for three points. A win against Ereeland will ultimately ensure Lamoni of at least a knockout berth, rendering the match (which has bookies in both Lamoni and Nedalia drooling) with Nedalia almost useless, from the Lamonian side. If Lamoni wins the matches against Ereeland and Nedalia, they will keep the first seed in Group C, placing them in a good spot for the knockouts.
If the Free Republic was to win against either Ereeland or Nedalia (but not both), then the best that they could expect would be third place in the group. While not as good from the Lamonian standpoint, it would still be a respectable place to start the knockouts from. We won't mention what would likely happen if the Hawks were to lose their two remaining group stage matches in AOCAF XVIII. To put it mildly, Lamoni has their future in their own hands. All indications to this point are that they will do well.
The major shock to date in AOCAF XVIII is almost certainly the 0-0-2 record of the Starblaydi's. Is the Purple Peril slowing down? Are they experiencing what Lamoni experienced when the AOCAF was last in Bazalonia (where Lamoni barely made it to the knockouts with 2 points, an AOCAF record)? Or is this going to be a multiple AOCAF stumble for them? No one is quite sure to this point, but it would be redundant to state the Lamonian political reaction to this. Something along the lines of pointing and laughing.
It wasn't the oft displayed Starblaydi arrogance that allowed Lamoni to win the AOCAF XVII cup. It was hard work, and iron discipline. You should ensure that you NEVER get too cocky. This is a worthy lesson for every team in the AOCAF. |
|
|
 |
|
Lamoni |
|
Democratic Maniac |
|
|
|
|
|
Posts: 1952 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
|
|
|
Southport News
“No witty slogan. We’re just boring like that.”
Raptors lose a close one to Pacitalia
LAHAR, MYRTANNIA – Twice the Raptors equalized against an excellent Pacitalia side. Unfortunately the Raptors couldn’t equalize a third time, and the Blue Foxes clinched themselves a trip to the next round with a 3-2 victory over Aurendia.
A defensive struggle for most of the first half was finally broken open in the 38th minute, as Blue Fox captain Vernance d’Amantano avoided Raptor defenders to score from inside the box. The 1-0 lead would prove to be short-lived, as a Jessica Colenti corner kick during first half injury time found forward Chad Barrett for the equalizer.
The second half quickly proved to be more offensively oriented, as Andreos Charisteas put the Blue Foxes up 2-1 in the 49th. The Raptor’s response was to increase the pressure up front, a move that paid off 21 minutes later. In the 70th, veteran forward Ashley Campbell stole the ball from Pacitalian defender Francesco Manzanotti and beat keeper Christianu Raduvani to knot it up 2-all. The draw didn’t last, as seven minutes later Michelangelo Mescagnano continued his scoring streak with the game-winner despite the best efforts of the Raptor’s defense.
With this loss and a bye on Match Day 2, Aurendia currently sits in 4th place in Group D standings. Up next for the Raptors is 2nd place Nojika.
Scoring:
1. P (V. d’Amantano) 38th Unassisted
2. A (C. Barrett 1) 45th (J. Colenti)
3. P (A. Charisteas) 49th Unassisted
4. A (A. Campbell 2) 70th Unassisted
5. P (M. Mescagnano) 77th Unassisted
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
|
|
|
The Panthers Take Three from Manhattan Prime
After a dreadful loss to Vilita & Turori, Nojika beats struggling Manhattan Prime
SALAHADIN CITY, MYTRTANNIA -- Two second half goals against Manhattan Prime for the Panthers of Nojika secured three points on match day three of the 18th AOCAF competition.
Whatever the manager told his squad during the half time talk had obviously affected the players and the second half showed an enormous improvement from the first for Nojika. The 58th minute saw a suburb pass from winger Jarret Betance to the feet of now national hero, 19 year old Rudy Greeves who opened up the scoring with a simple pass past the opposing goalkeeper, Clive Hilton. A foul in the penalty area two minutes later allowed Takamura the chance to equalize the score for Manhattan Prime, but his powerful strike was saved by 33 year old Monte Potempa from Coral Cove.
With time running down and Manhattan Prime piling on the pressure, the Panthers created a quick counter attack and in the 84th minute, Lucas Thompson of Manhattan Prime fouled substitute Rico Archilla of Nojika to avoid a 2 on 1 situation. However, his effort was short lived when the resulting free kick from Antoine Billet barely beat Hilton for the second Nojikan goal.
The Panthers currently lie in 2nd place behind Pacitalia who are currently three points ahead of the Panthers, and just ahead of Vilita & Turori who have three points and a match in hand.
Next up, Nojika will face Aurendia at Locke Field in Lahar while Pacitalia will have the day off and Manhattan Prime face off against Vilita & Turori.
Surely, all Nojikans are hoping for a point, or even three, for Manhattan Prime as they face off against the Jungle Cats.
Nojika: 2 - 0 :Manhattan Prime
(R. Greeves 58', Billet 84') - (None)
This post has been edited by Nojika on Jan 17 2007, 05:08 AM |
|
|
 |
|
Nojika |
|
Senator in Training |
|
|
|
|
|
Posts: 214 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
|
|
|
'Twas a wonderful sunny day in downtown Halosen, and in a training ground somewhere near the National Stadium, the Bettian squad were about to make their final preparations for their match against Delesa. Coach James Watson had gathered his players around him to talk tactics, but was interrupted by midfielder Jon Deverill making a late entrance looking rather flushed and sweaty, with a rather heavy-looking sports bag in tow.
"Sorry boss, got a bit held up at the hotel!"
"Don't let it happen again..." Watson muttered before turning back to his trusty whiteboard. "Right, now for this game..."
"Shît!"
"I beg your pardon? Who said that!?" Watson snapped angrily.
"It's Jon's bag, gaff! It's moving!" Abel Abramson blurted out.
"Moving?"
The crowd of player all turned their attentions on the bag - it was moving all right. More than moving, it was going positively bonkers, and making some rather strange high-pitched growling and biting noises to boot.
"Jon! What the hell is going on here?"
"Err, nothing!" he said, sitting on the bag and grinning sheepishly. "Nothing at all-YOWWW!" he yelped, jumping up and gingerly rubbing his rump.
"Right, that's it. What have you got in there?" Watson said as he reached to open the bag.
"No, wait boss, don't..."
Too late, for his pissed-off manager had already done the honours, and he peered warily inside.
"It's an arora... a baby arora..." he murmured as he looked at the small, angry creature glowering back at him.
"Yes. I found her a couple of days before we come out here." Jon said as he picked her up and clutched her to his chest. "I think she's orphaned. I couldn't leave her so I brought her along. I named her Candy 'cos..."
"You smuggled an arora into Myrtannia!?"
"Yes, but she's totally harmless - unless you sit on her. I thought she'd make a good mascot or something."
"A mascot? A MASCOT!?! Are you out of your fùcking mind?"
"Why not? She could be the new Tiddles! Just think what an inspiration she'll be. And what's more, if we're losing, we could train her to sneak behind the opposition goalie and bite his ankles!"
"Are you crazy? We'll never get away... hmmm." Watson stopped abruptly as an idea screeched into his mind. "You know, that might actually be a good idea. Not the biting thing of course, but the whole mascot thing. As long as no-one mistakes her for a football, that is..." |
|
|
 |
|
Bettia |
|
We don't do defence |
|
|
|
|
|
Posts: 956 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
, |
|
Track this topic
Receive email notification when a reply has been made to this topic and you are not active on the board.
Subscribe to this forum
Receive email notification when a new topic is posted in this forum and you are not active on the board.
Download / Print this Topic
Download this topic in different formats or view a printer friendly version.
[ Script Execution time: 0.0288 ] [ 14 queries used ] [ GZIP Enabled ]
|
Close Topic Options
