AMW World Cup [AMW Only]

[Chrinthanium]

AMW IAFF World Cup 2011

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Group A
Areopagitican
Beddgelert
Menzhigalh
Nibelunc

Group B
Arabia
Gandvik
Belgeland
Chrinthania

Group C
Avarga
Anauhuac
Byzantine Empire
Bohaemia

Group D
Amerique
Attica
Cassanos
Valendia

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Schedule:

OPENING CEREMONY: Monday October 17, 2011, 5PM, Rose Bowl, Pasadena, California

Matchday 1 (Groups A & B), Tuesday October 18th

Areopagitican vs Nibelunc (Sun Devil Stadium, Tucson, Arizona)
Beddgelert vs Menzhigahl (Cowboys Stadium, Dallas, Texas)
Arabia vs Chrinthania (Reliant Stadium, Houston, Texas
Gandvik vs Belgeland (Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California)

Matchday 2 (Groups C & D), Wednesday October 19th

Anauhuac vs Byzantine Empire (Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)
Avarga vs Bohemia (Sam Boyd Stadium, Las Vegas, Nevada)
Amerique vs Valendia (Darrel K Royal - Texas Memorial Stadium, Austin, Texas)
Attica vs Cassanos (Rose Bowl, Pasadena, California)

Matchday 3 (Groups A & B), Friday, October 21st

Menzhigahl vs Areopagitican (Reliant Stadium, Houston, Texas)
Beddgelert vs Nibelunc (Rose Bowl, Pasadena, California)
Belgeland vs Arabia (Sun Devil Stadium, Tucson, Arizona)
Gandvik vs Chrinthania (Cowboys Stadium, Dallas, Texas)

Matchday 4 (Groups C & D), Saturday, October 22nd

Bohemia vs Ananuhuac (Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)
Avarga vs Byzantine Empire (Darren K Royal - Texas Memorial Stadium, Austin, Texas)
Cassanos vs Amerique (Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California)
Attica vs Valendia (Sam Boyd Stadium, Las Vegas, Nevada)

Matchday 5 (Groups A & B), Monday October 24th

Areopagitican vs Beddgelert (Sun Devil Stadium, Tucson, Arizona)
Menzhigahl vs Nibelunce (Sam Boyd Stadium, Las Vegas, Nevada)
Arabia vs Gandvik (Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California)
Belgeland vs Chrinthania (Rose Bow, Pasadena, California)

Matchday 6 (Groups C & D) Tuesday, October 25th

Anauhuac vs Avarga (Reliant Stadium, Houston, Texas)
Bohemia vs Byzantine Empire (Cowboys Stadium, Dallas, Texas)
Amerique vs Attica (Darrel K Royal - Texas Memorial Stadium, Austin, Texas)
Cassanos vs Valendia (Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)

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Don't forget to post your team information here. Games will be scorinated at 4pm US Eastern Daylight Time on match days.
Just a note to non-AMW members. This thread is for AMW members only. If you have questions, comments, or concerns, you can TG me through NS and I will be happy to respond or check out the links in my signature. (In other words, if you're not a member of AMW, then don't post in this thread for any reason, thanks!).

[Chrinthanium]

Nation Name: The Republic of Chrinthania
Team Nickname: The Union
Style Modifier: +3
Formation: 4-4-2


Kit:

Home


Away


Third Kit


Roster:

Head Coach: Thomas Lipton
Captain: 7 - Kory Slater

Players:

Goal Keepers:

3 - Luke Simpson [31] (GK): The elder statesman of the team, Simpson, a 7-time MLS MVP for the Denver Snowcapts, with his one-on-one stopper ability, is the greatest asset to the offensive-minded Chrinthani National Team. Noted for his aggressiveness in competition and demonstrative, often willing his team to win. However, his aggressiveness can give him fits if the team falls behind often clouding his judgement.
2 - Dennis Redmond (Reserve)
5 - Trey Webb (Reserve)

Defenders:

10 - Thomas Pike [27] (LCB), Pike isn't just another big, mean, and ugly footballer, he's a wall of man at 6'6" and 258lbs. He's also not afraid of yellow card and is noted for obtaining the most yellow card in the 2011 MLS season while playing for the Houston Fire. Opposing offenses should avoid him at all costs because if he sets his sight on them, he's going to cause damage.
31 - Anthony Cunnings [24] (CB), the Vice-Captain of the team, and the most respected defender for The Union, Cunnings is an intelligent player with an ability to block just about any kick that sails his way. While slightly undersized, he makes up this with speed. Playing in his 3rd year with FC Seattle, Cunnings is making his first entrance into the World Cup.
14 - Andy Theler [22] (CB), this nationalized Nibelung is a side-tackle specialist. A mental player that is quick on his feet will pose a formiddible threat to any attacking offense. He plays for the San Diego Sea Gulls.
9 - Rory Archuleta [28] (RCB), this deal-ball expert keeps a sharp knowledge and keen intellect for the game. His only MLS goal came when his Dallas Stars had a shootout with the Houston Fire. He scored the winning PK to seal the victory.
7 - Nick Heatherington (Reserve)
27 - Val Berman (Reserve)
12 - Chase Fowler (Reserve)
1 -Monty Davis (Reserve)

Midfielders:

19 - Case Dane [25] (LMF), Dane can plug the middle with extreme effectiveness. This perennial favorite of the San Francisco Marauders makes his debut on the international stage.
4 - Jonathan Dawson [23] (CMF)- Smart and aware of his surroundings, this winger can pick off any pass that comes his way. Responsible for grabbing the ball away from Denver in this years Chrinthani Cup, this LA Galaxy player was the spark that brought the Galaxy the championship.
30 - Philip Arrington [28] (CMF), A speedy midfielder with a passion for making plays, Arrington is the definition of what a midfielder should be. This is his first appearance in a World Cup, coming from the Oklahoma City Oklahomans.
6 - Nick Tudor [21] (RMF), this rookie Midfielder is the most recent addition to the Las Vegas Albatross. He's still learning the game, and prone to being exploited by opposing offenses. However, he was elected to the World Cup team by the Chrinthani Soccer Association for his play-making abilities.
11 - Levi Brenner (Reserve)
13 - Steve Jones (Reserve)
17 - Garrison Haines (Reserve)
22 - Tony Iannucci (Reserve)

Forwards

8 - Kory Slater [20] (CF): Star of the Los Angeles Galaxy, Slater is the face of Chrinthani Major League Soccer. This stand-out striker scored 11 goals in the regular season and led the Galaxy, almost single-handedly, to their first national title in MLS history. Drafted out of UCLA in his Sophomore year, Slater has turned a franchise in a downward spiral into the best team in Chrinthania. He's a tad selfish with the ball and, sometime, in glory for himself, attempts to make shots rather than pass the ball to someone in better positioning which had led to many people criticizing he performance on the field. Make no mistake about it, though, this young kid is still a superstar in Chrinthania.

21 - Kyle Swain [21] (CF): The all-around team player, Swain is in his 2nd year with the Denver Snowcaps as their star striker/forward. Swain is well disciplined in the nuances of the game. More willing to pass the ball to a player with a better shot, Swain was elected Captain of the Snowcaps by his fellow teammates. Scoring 9 goals for Denver in the regular season, he was shut down in the Chrinthani Cup against the Los Angeles.

18 - Devon Carons (Reserve)
17 - Sean Miller (Reserve)
24 - Chad Michaels (Reserve)



RP Information
If my opponent RP's first they can:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes (Within reason, making me laugh is a good thing)
Godmod injuries to my players: Yes (again, making me laugh is a good thing)
Hand out Yellow cards to my players: Yes (only up to 3 a match)
Hand out Red cards to my players: Yes (no more than 1)
Godmod Other Events: Yes (you'll notice a trend.... making me laugh is a good thing)

[Maxen von Bismarck]

Nation: The Catholic Exarchate of Areopagitican
Team Nickname: The Septimi
Style Modifier: -5
Formation: 5-3-2*
Kit: (Upcoming)
Manager: Severus Hamilcar Barcus

If my opponent RP's first they can:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes (It better make me laugh. )
RP injuries to my players: Yes (But don't make me cry)
Godmod injuries to my players: Yes (See above)
Hand out Yellow cards to my players: Yes (See above)
Hand out Red cards to my players: Yes (Only if they commit the foul in an appropriately Areopagite fit of intolerance!)
Godmod Other Events: Yes (See above)

1. Hanno Homilicar, 20 [G] - At twenty years old, Homilicar is obviously a tad inexperienced, in both soccer as well as in life. Yet he is nonetheless the Septimi's most talented player. Creative, and open to improvisation, he combines many of the best qualities of Areopagite soccer while mitigating many of the weaknesses. He passes excellently, manages the ball well but takes risks where most would be content to muddle. Many Areopagite players play conservatively, avoid one-on-one brawls, and utilize passes that only manage to move the ball forward if everything is perfect. Hanno excels at sailing the ball to beyond midfield quickly (an excellent long kick); oftentimes too quick for his own, arguably laconic, team. Also tall, like most of Areopagite descent, he is one of the more physical players on the team.

2. Barca Gesco, 30 [LB] - Xenophobic, burly, and considered something of a sociopath: Barca Gesco is any forward's worst nightmare. His penchant for after hours brawling has carried onto the field, and no other team member has ended more careers. He has been on and off Areopagitican's national team more often than any respectable coach would dare mention but he is, nonetheless, an invaluable role-player. He understands what he needs to accomplish with as little grandstanding as possible.

3. Ad Hasrubal, 29 [RB] *Vice-Captain*. The embodiment of Areopagite soccer, and a delight to see on the field; Hasrubal is filled with pure, technical, beauty. Defensively minded, Hasrubal delights in stealing the ball away from his opponent's split second mistakes. A player who enjoys working with his teammates, he avoids all except the most elaborate defensive traps. His awareness of the field around him, and his patient approach to solving the opposing team's defensive riddles are close to unmatched on the African continent. Yet, he does have a certain weakness with one-on-one skirmishes over the ball. He often has a grimaced look, immensely popular in the pop culture of his hometown of Balaz, when faced with a singular opponent. A look that seems to indicate "oh, drat, I was hoping I wouldn't have to touch one of your kind today." Furthermore, he has a tendency to avoid risks of all sorts. As a result, seeing him actively advance down field—no matter how desperate or well conceived the attack—is a rarity.

4. Xanthippus Hiero, 26 [LD] - One of the few black, Islamic, players, and one of the fastest individuals on the team Xanthippus is arguably Areopagitican's best one on one player. He usually flies by slower, whiter players and, if allowed, whole teams. He also has a love for using his head for excellent ball placement and scoring opportunities.

5. Virbia Tertullian, 25 [RD] - Another Berber, he also utilizes his ethnicity's natural disposition towards athleticism. Faster and more nimble than his pigment-challenged contemporaries he, while not as fast as Hiero, does possess a more powerful kick that has been known to knock low hanging satellites out of orbit.

6. Caracalla Bal'sar, 24 [RC] - Caracalla is incredibly prone to playing extremely un-Areopagite soccer. Bal'sar frequently takes the ball and charges down-field, more than eager to mix sweat with foreigners and his own teammates alike in a quest for making an amazing play. Incredible ball handling skills, and possessing the height that enables him to be (easily) the highest header scoring individual on Areopagitican's team; he has more than a little reason for being as arrogant with the ball as he is. However, while it is very uncommon for him to make mistakes when faced against a shallow defense of one or two defenders; he does often back himself into a corner with his inability to play unselfish soccer.

7. Cyprian Battuta, 27 [MC] - Perhaps the most underrated player on Areopagitican's team, he finds himself overshadowed by the dominant personalities and abilities in the middle field. Nonetheless he has one of the best, brightest dispositions and an wry sense of humor that often determines team moral in the later stages of the game (especially in OT). Like most of Areopagitican's team, he has excellent passing abilities, ball placement, a habit for heading accurately and an awareness of game around him. Yet he also suffers from the Areopagite monopolized drawbacks of an underpeforming long kick, and an almost embarrassed disposition to one-on-one skirmishes.

8. Heraclius Zarzas, 24 [LC] - One of the main play makers and second highest scorer after Tanit, Heraclius is a quintessential Areopagite player who lives up to his name with a strength that surprises everyone; even with his heavier frame. Combining a laisse faire ball handling style with an awareness and quickness of passing that leaves nothing to be desired, Heraclius is not exceedingly quick, but smart enough to avoid traps. Conservative with the ball, almost to a fault, he prides himself on one of the highest shooting percentages in the league. Yet, alternatively, he has one of the lowest shooting attempts compared to any contemporary (indeed, on more vibrant teams; some joke their goalkeepers attempt more goals). A great assistant on the wing for providing a competent 'out' for the Berber slicers and the raging Caracalla (when he decides to pass), Zarsaz is one player who the team needs for an effective offense.

9. Gades Autaritus, 27 [SW/CB] - *Captain* Easily the most fluid position of Areopagitican's offense, the lithe and angular Gades Autaritus has the stamina (and mental dexterity) of several men. Within minutes his position puts him in the position of defense, back to offense, and then again to defense; yet he never misses a beat. Autaritus doesn't possess the raw talent of Homilicar, the devotion to the technical nuances of Hasrubal, the burning ambition of Caracalla, or the knack for defensive cleaving as Tani; yet he is the captain because while he is not first at any one thing, he is second at everything. The best friend of Battuta, and related to Tertullian (by marriage) he is in many ways the axis of the team first; a great player second. His personality is such that if he was a mere waterboy he'd still be Vice Captain.

10. Ibn Tanit, 27 [F1] - Ibn is an anomaly who exists for the sole reason that he scores. A Berber who has perfected outraging the media (and Patriarchate) with inopportune comments about race, sexuality and politics in the highly repressed country of Areopagitican; he would have been booted off the team (if not straight out of the country) if not so many dictionaries put his face for the graphic description of "Winner." Fast, often leaving his non-black teammates behind (apart from the ever striving Bal'sar), and with an ability to find holes in the defense before they even exist; Ibn's flash and frothiness (apart from the usual Areopagite traits of defensive blandness) is arguably the only reason anyone tunes in to watch Areopagitican compete.

11. Magnol Eshmunazar, 20 [F2] - No one enjoys being 'the worst' of the starters, but it is tacitly acknowledged that Areopagitican's sputtering offense is a main result of Eshmunazar's inclement talent. At one moment brilliant, at another idiotic; he changes styles of play so often even he sometimes forgets where he's going. An excellent shooter, he is sometimes reckless. Decent abilities at dribbling and passing the ball, yet oftentimes will charge down the field like the celebrated Ibn Tanit; except, of course, without the winning. Simply, an offensive roleplayer who doesn't want to admit, quite yet, that he is never going to be a star.

Substitutes
12. Agbal Anysus - 29 [GK]
13. Shadrach Adranodoros - 25 [F1/2]
14. Melqart al-Quib - 24 [RB]
15. Malagbel Hath - 26 [F1/2]
16. Sirom Tetramnestus - 27 [LD]
17. Tendao Ali Mohammad - 23 [LB]
18. Boodes Agizul - 28 [RC]
19. Mintho Hamiscora, 29 [LC]
20. Henry Ba'alum, 25 [SW]
21. Straton Cyprot - 23 [RD]
22. Bomilcar Baldrubal - 28 [RB]
23. Alexis Kommalum - 28 [GK]

*Visual Reminder

[Beddgelert]

The Beddgelert Association-Football Association (you heard me) Presents...
The Beddgelert Association-Football Team

Geletia's association football competition is domestically over-shadowed by the inter-tribal Geletian-rules football contest and other Celtic games. This has perhaps inspired the game's devotees to strive for success on the international stage, where Y Sbortóanghii, loosely meaning 'the young warriors of the game', have experienced several successful periods, most notably in the years immediately following the Great War, when -lead by the legendary Kermit Saethwr, who scored 84 goals in 85 caps-, Geletia won the world cup for the first and only time to date. After a period of decline brought on partially by conflicts between players and princely state, the Celts came close in the 1990s, upsetting Niebelunc in the quarter finals of one competition only to fall down at the semi-final stage, but have struggled to sustain a level of domestic interest and investment in the game necessary to compete reliably against the biggest sides.

Top domestic teams include the likes of Dynamo Trevenya and cross-town rivals CFC Trevenya from Regnia, Réalta Dearg Cathrachbán and Páirtíneach Cathrachbán from Scordiscia, CP Locomotif Serdica from Armorica, and Kermitakink and CF Tavia from Durcodia. Most of these struggle to attract crowds larger than those expected by teams playing in the second tier of league systems in countries such as Niebelunc and Valendia, but have never the less provided the core of Beddgelert's national side.

Players of international repute include slick midfielder Duwon Mapmaros and sometimes idle but often inspirational forward Demeter o Dŵrpoethon, not forgetting his towering strike-partner Buadaoine ó Sathairnon, who stands over two metres (about 6'8”) tall. Another player to watch is Omargastorix, one of few players to stand below six feet in height, but one of the most hot-headed and physically powerful, his set-pieces proving particularly dangerous due to fierce power behind both right and left boots. He has, however, proven easy to 'wind up' and has an infamously poor disciplinary record, even missing several of Beddgelert's world cup qualifying games due to suspension.

The fiery temperament of players like Omargastorix is characteristic of a side often said to lack discipline both on and off the pitch, a weakness contrasted by strengths including, most obviously, physical strength (though this may at times in fact exacerbate the primary flaw) and plenty of height, which makes the Geletians generally hard to muscle off the ball and constantly threatening in the air. A large proportion of Buadaoine's 20 international goals to date have been the results of headers from open play or set-piece crosses.

Another factor working both for and against Beddgelert is the team's fan base. Expected to be smaller than the travelling contingents supporting other European teams in Chrinthania, the Geletian fans are endlessly enthusiastic and extremely vocal and animated in their support, sometimes providing a boost to their Celtic fellows on the pitch, while also frequently becoming involved in violent disruptions inside and outside of stadia. How many will make the trip remains to be proven, and it is usually in home matches that Geletian crowds are a decisive factor, proving extremely intimidating to visiting teams and often successfully discouraging away fans from following their teams.

Beddgelert travel to Chrinthania with only 22 recognised players and no manager, having refused to replace Heilynrics after he and manager Glyn ApGrigor were suspended over a side-line altercation with a referee's assistant during a qualifying game against Macedon. After Heilynrics' 52nd minute goal was denied by the linesman's flag, the right wing-back reputedly threatened to, “Barbecue” the, “biased Bavarian bastard”, where upon ApGrigor took a lighter to the official's flag. Y Sbortóanghii will reportedly be managed by assistant coaching staff and player votes, while the newly-created team mascot, 'Zippo', has been identified as an honorary squad member in waiting, should authorities insist that a full 23 man squad must be submitted.

Players

Starting 11 in italics (shirt # given) [favoured position]

Goalkeepers

Rhodduw Decidavarix (#1)

Gwledig Osingidun (#12)
Pobobudd MapCadwgan (#21)

Defenders

Brenin Golosgo (#2) [LB]
Arluwin Aparatoi (#3) [LB/CB]
Hebeiddon Aplewin (#4) [CB]
Cadgard Osirmion (#5) [RB/CB]

Corann Ilar (#13) [LB/CB]
Tirenwog Bugail (#14) [CB]
Istewgawn o Dŵrpoethon (#22) [RB/RW]

Midfielders

Segomon Apaelianos (#6) [LW]
Colof Apelian (#7) [DM]
Omargastorix [AM/Fwd] (#8)
Duwon Mapmaros (#9) [AM/CM/W]

Cryfan Mediolanos (#15) [LW]
Gearg Anboi (#16) [DM]
Arthfael y Falch (#17) [AM/Fwd]
Brenos Grawn (#18) [RW]

Forwards

Demeter o Dŵrpoethon (#10)
Buadaoine ó Sathairnon (#11)

Aengus ApCyll (#19)
Diabreitheamhan ó Áitseabhac (#20)

The formation most commonly used is a 4-4-2, though Colof Apelian is quite capable of dropping back in the centre to form a 4-1-3-2 formation, allowing the wing-backs more freedom to roam.

And the team strip:



My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:

Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod scoring events Y
RP injuries to my players Y
Godmod injuries to my players Y (try not to end too many careers, as I don't know how many more players I want to invent)
Hand out yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out red cards to my players Y
Godmod other events Y

Style Modifier: +1.5 (if we can make use of the decimal point, but if that's a pain, just go for +2)

[Cassanos]

Nibelunc

Nation name: Republic of Nibelunc
Team Nickname: The Dragons
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Alignment: +2


Team:
NOTE: Players who are in the starting team are marked with an "A", substitues are marked with an "S".

Coaching team
Head Coach - Joachim Luchs (53)
Assistand Coach - Friedhelm Stern (38)
Head of Medical Team - Ursula Rolfes (46)


Team Captain
Bastian Bux (28)


Goalkeepers:
A - 1 Heiner Alt (26)
Having replaced former Number One Jorn Landsnis, pressure is high on youngster Heiner Alt, who is the last in the long line of famous Nibelung goalkeepers. His successes with the SC Cuxhaven and a supreme performance in the World Cup qualification, however, have silenced his critics - for now. 26-year-old Alt is already renowned for being a "standard situation killer", excelling in high-pressure moments such as free kicks or penalties. Working well together with his defenders (some of which he still knows from junior leagues), Heiner Alt provides coordination and the last line of defence for the Nibelung team.

S - 12 Thomas Heide (24)
A very young substitute from SpVgg Borken, Thomas Heide has made a name for himself as an up-and-coming goalkeeper. Even younger than current Number One Heiner Alt, a healthy dose of competition makes both men constantly give their best. In a few years, a matured Heide might well replace Alt.

S - 22 Jorn Landsnis (31)
Called "Papa" by the rest of his team, Jorn Landsnis (of Gandvian descent) is the oldest player in the rejuvenated Nibelung team. Landsnis, a fan darling for both his excellent performances (most importantly saving a Geletian penalty in the last Euro Cup, thus ensuring Nibelunc's entry into the quarter finals) and his good looks, has abdicated his position as regular goalkeeper with remarkable grace - even though rumours remain that he is indeed bitter towards both coach Joachim Luchs and Heiner Alt.


Defenders:
S - 2 Renée zu Witzhausen (24)

A - 3 Armund Stamm (22)

S - 5 Michael Riebel (19)

A - 14 Christian Träsch (23)
Tall and imposing, Träsch is already a regular in the Nibelung defence.

A - 16 Florian Roth (26)
The counterpart to Christian Träsch, Florian Roth stands only 1.69 metres tall, but his speed and agility, as well as his tenacity, have been the bane of many an opposing striker.

A - 17 Romuald Schwitt (19)

S - 20 Mutanbal Al'kor (24)


Midfielders:
A - 6 Siegfried Mechtersheimer (25)

A - 7 Bastian Bux (28)

A - 8 Agamemnón Loverdos (21)
A Byzantine-born Nibelung from the industrial areas of Esscen, Loverdos is one of the most brilliant players on the Nibelung roster, if one is to believe the sports journalists. Lithe, fast, and an elegant player. He is part of the "trio", the three young players from FC Munstra who are the core of the new Nibelung offensive, excelling in technique as well as team spirit.

S - 15 Thomas Offlinger (25)

S - 18 Antonio Maria Cortéz (24)

S - 21 Jean-Jacques Ferrier (28)


Forward Midfielders/Strikers:
S - 9 Stefan Kiesinger (21)

A - 10 Anton Rahm (24)

A - 11 Thengil Sturmfels (28)
Bald, bearded, and over two metres tall, Thengil Sturmfels doesn't need his impressive name to terrify the opposing defence. His bear-like looks belie his precise left foot and his talent for impossible headers.

A - 13 Thomas Müller (19)
Another member of the "trio".

S - 19 Caradoc Wilders (20)
Another member of the "trio".

S - 23 Achim Goméz (22)


Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes (TG me first)
Godmod injuries to my players: Yes (TG me first)
Hand out Yellow cards to my players: Yes (3 max per game)
Hand out Red/Yellow-and-Red cards to my players: Yes (maximum of one per game)
Godmod Other Events: (TG me first with the idea)


Team kit

Standard kit:


Second kit:


Goalkeeper kit:

[Jatriqya and Hoya]

Byzantine National News (BNN)

News reporter sits in an office chair with a backdrop of Oklahoma City.

"I'm here in Oklahoma City, where on October 20th our national team will play Anauhuac's team. Since yesterday, Byzantine fans have been filtering in from Byzantium. Constantinople Airlines and Damascus Airlines have special flights during the World Cup to Dallas, TX, via Amérique which has helped bring Byzantine fans in."

"Chrinthanium is not well known for beautiful architecture, and Oklahoma City doesn't prove to the contrary. However, the spirit here and the influx of Byzantine fans means that the languages of the Empire are starting to be heard around town - predominantly Greek but yesterday at the airport I heard a large raucously shouting group of Romanians chatting about their trip from Antioch. Just a reminder to our visitors in Chrinthanium, the Embassy is located in Denver, and there are three consulates - Los Angeles, Dallas and Seattle. To find a list of the nearest Dodekatheon, Roman Polytheist, Armenian Catholic or Muslim center of worship, please visit the BNN website."

Constantinople Sports News (CSN)

Newscaster: "In the next hour, we'll be talking to Lysander Fuller by videocast to talk about the chances of Byzantium in the World Cup. Lysander, thanks for phoning in."

Lysander Fuller: "No problem, it's a pleasure to be on CSN."

NC: "The Imperial Football team has now spent almost a week training in Chrinthanium, although they prepared by training in the mountains in Anatolia. Do you think that this presents an advantage to the team?"

LF: "Definitely, I think we've gained a lot of stamina from our training, and as we've also trained in Mesopotamia our team isn't afraid of warm temperatures either that we might have in the desert areas of Chrinthanium."

NC: "How do you feel about Cyril Barros, who has just recently come back from a knee injury, being in a starting position for this year's world cup?"

LF: "Cyril is an integral part of the team, without him I think we would be worse off even though he is just recovered."

NC: "How well do you think we will do in this year's World Cup?"

LF: "I think we have a good chance, although I won't say too much before playing the other teams! They're certainly worthy opponents!"

The Imperial Football Team

Formation: 4-4-2
Alignment: -1


Goalkeepers
5 - Lysander Fuller *captain*
8 - Alexis Randovic (reserve)


Defenders
7- Alexander Chontos (L)
12- Bryan Thompson (CL)
67- Cyril Barros (CR)
9- John Elias (R)
34- Andrew Floros(reserve)
23- Harry Gekas(reserve)
6 - Cohn Grammatico(reserve)

Midfielders
20- Dennis Manolis (L)
19- Alexander Pavlos (CL)
13- Jason Roxanni (CR)
3- Boris Chakov (R)
36 – Klaus Ioannou (reserve)
17 - Laertes Karahalios (reserve)
19- Luke Gianopoulos (reserve)
15 – Ptolemy Lambros (reserve)

Strikers
10 – Rhodes Maniatis (L)
26 - Priam Kokes (R)
39 - Lucas Panagakos (reserve)
14 - Paul Theodorou (reserve)
16 - John Petropoulos (reserve)

Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes
Godmod injuries to my players: Yes (TG first please)
Hand out Yellow cards to my players: Yes (2 max per game)
Hand out Red cards to my players: Yes (TG me first)
Godmod Other Events: Yes

[Ferkas]

Nation: The Christian Kingdom of Arabia
Formation: 3-6-1
Alignment: +5

Team Manager: HHL Sir Todd Elray, Margrave of Lesser Abha (77)
Head Coach: Titus H. Limpfield, PhD. (71)
Assistant Coaches: Hercules Emfort (68), Brenton L. Metteron (70), Charles J. Herch (83)
Medical Staff: Dr. Richard Mars, MD. (72), Nicholas McLeton, RN. (68)


Keepers

Mark Brussels (19)
Aalam Ramzi (22)
Nathaniel Darton (20)

Defense

Aamir Richards (21)
Abdul Jalil Gert (23)
Mark Anton (18)
H. Grange Lonton (20)
Colin Perncip (19)
Ghazi Recan (17)

Midfield

Hubaab al-Sanwir (21)
Thomas Rent (19)
Mirsab al-Sanwir (17)
Vladimir Ganvin (22)
Zachery Lilliten (21)
Ethan Denen (18)
Micheal Denen (18)
Paul Neely (21)
Oscar Mercis (22)
Patrick West (17)
Colton Patrickson (16)

Offense

Ian Ulrich (20)
Seth Belcampau (21)
Eric James (19)



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


Sports Review Network (SRN)

(Two reporters, both men of about thirty years of age, sit behind a desk. Behind them is an image of the Pasadena skyline. Seated on the right is Mark, on the left is John.)

"Hello Arabia. My name is Mark Peters and with me is John Percy. We are coming to you live from San Diego, in Chrinthania, the site of the 2011 World Cup. Tomorrow is the Opening Ceremonies, and following that our national team will play its first match on October 19th, against the host team. That match will be played at Reliant Stadium, in Houston."

[A Map of Chrinthania pops up on a screen off to the left, Houston marked in red.]

"After that match the team will play again on the 22nd against Belgeland, this time at the Sun Devil Stadium in Tucson..."

[The map now shows Tucson also, in blue.]

"...which will be followed by a match against Gandvik in the Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego."

[San Diego is also shown on the map, marked in green.]

So, John, what can you tell us about the team that we are bringing to the World Cup this year?"


"Well Mark, the biggest thing is that this is a young team with an old staff. The average age must be somewhere right around 20 or 21, maybe even less. But thats for the players. Just looking at the coaching roster...wow, what era did they find these guys in? I mean, yea, His Honorable Lordship was a right fine coach back in the day, but has he done lately? I mean, the guy will celebrate his 78th birthday at the games, what is up with that? A Herch is on the roaching roster too, he is almost 84 years old. I know these guys are legends here in Arabia, but I can't help but think we run a risk bringing such an aged staff along."


"John, I know what you mean. Sounds like the risk of a heart attack just shot up in Chrinthania."

[Both men make a few forced laughs at the weak attempt for a joke. Mark then continues talking.]


"But really, it should be interesting to watch. As anyone who knows anything about Elray is that he often uses an aggressive style. I mean, its not like they picked an old guy who is a stick in the mud for tradition. If anything the guy is a stuck on the idea of insanity. I mean, who hasn't seen this clip before?"

[The camera changes to show an old soccer video, from the 70's. There is no sound and the footage is grainy at best, but it shows a team shifting all of its players, including its keeper, to the very front, rushing the opponents goal with just ten seconds left in the game. Of course the final few seconds of footage show the other team stealing the ball away, making a clear breakaway and scoring on the the undefended goal. A few laughs, much more sincere, are heard as the camera pans back to Mark and John. Mark then begins to speak.]

"Ah yes, the legendary finals of the Arabian National Association, from 1974. Elray's decision to put everyone on to the offensive, in an attempt to break a tie in the final minutes, failed terribly. Honestly, his team was lucky to even make that match, his best bet must have been the penalty kicks, right?"


"You might think that, but he did have some weak kickers on the team that year. It was a miracle they even made the final. But I think that shows why he might have been selected. He is working with a young team, with not much experience. He might very well have to do something different to may an impact on the tournament, and he is the type of guy who is willing to take the risks. If he can get those younger guys to believe in what he is telling them, they might make something magic happen this year."


"And if he can't?"


"Well Mark, if he can't we might see some terrible results. I have to be honest, its all or nothing. Elray uses that 3-6-1, and sometimes thats his safest formation of the game. Its a huge risk. Hopefully some of the other coaches can exercise some caution. Because if it doesn't go too well...we could come home playing the part of the fool."


"John, that is so true. Now, to look at our first match of the tournament. Chrinthania generally favors a 4-4-2 approach, and is pretty aggressive, although Elray should have them more than matched in that regard. But how can you see their style coming into play here?"


"Well Mark, if both teams play to form we should have a shoot out. The Chrins will have an extra guy right out front, that can give them a bit of an extra punch, but we will have two more in the midfield. If our midfield plays right we should be able to switch nicely between offense and defense. And we will need that switching. Chrinthania has a dedicated four line in defense, so whoever is playing striker is going to need the support of a strong midfield. And with the Chrins having two strikers, our three line in the rear might need some reinforcement from time to time also."


"Well then, I guess we all know what to watch out for. If the midfield can stay mobile it should be a great match. If Elray doesn't go too crazy it should be good. If Elray does go crazy...well, it should be interesting. And if the midfield falls apart...well, we all saw the last time one of His Honorable Lordships teams actually made the nation finals..."

[Another cut away, this one showing a team in red celebrating its championships. The final score, 9-1, flashes across the screen. The camera then shows the Farasan Fighters leaving the field, heads down, as head coach HHL Sir Todd Elray is bombarded with questions from the press. It was a game in which the Fighters midfield collapsed after the first goal, leading to the biggest rout in championship history. The exit music then plays and the credits role as a commercial for dish soap begins to play...]

[Acadzia]

Nation: The ANAUHUAC Caliphate
Team Nickname: Aztecs
Style Modifier: +4
Formation: 3-4-2-1
Kit:
Manager: Al'aldin Centzonuitznahua
Head Coach: Said Manenemi

If my opponent RP's first they can:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yeah
RP injuries to my players: Yes
Godmod injuries to my players: Yes
Hand out Yellow cards to my players: Yes.
Hand out Red cards to my players: One per game.
Godmod Other Events: TG me first, but if you plan to make it funny, interesting, and keep it within character, I'll most likely say yes.

ROSTER
((Format is Number/Name/Age, with a bio beneath.)

Goalkeepers:
#1 Huemac Coaxoch, 31 [G]
- Coaxoch has to be a good goalkeeper, being that he is the last line of defense for a very aggressive, 3-defender team. Indeed, Huemac's talent (as well as the Sweeping ability of Fath) is what prompted the Aztecs to take up a 3-4-2-1 formation in the first place.

Defenders:
#2 Dhakwan Fath, 22 [SW/CB]
- Fast and with a great amount of discipline, Fath has been with the Aztecs for three years now, and was a much needed addition to the team's defensive line. A first-generation Anauhuacan, who arrived in the Caliphate at age 6 via Arabia, Fath brings to the team a more level-headed, Arab sensibility to his often brash and aggressive Aztec teammates. At 5'7, he is relatively short for a football player (and, one would suppose, in general,) but he more than makes up for it with speed, self-control, and an uncanny ability to send the ball exactly where he wants it to go; a solid sweeper. Fath is a rising star in Anauhuac soccer, though still considered a rookie (however, that is part of his appeal.) That said, Anauhuac's reasonably-sized Arab-immigrant population sees Fath as, first and foremost, their player.

#3 Ayotochi Namacuiz, 35 [LWB]
- A 6'5, wide brute of a man with a penchant for roughness and yellow cards, Namacuiz has been referred to as the "Great Wall of Anauhuac" by some commentators. Was forced to take last season off after getting into a brawl (and biting an opponents ear half off) during a game in Quanax Huato, and so many wonder if that break will hinder his skill.

#4 Nahui Tonaltzintli, 32 [RWB]
- Tonaltzintli might be, charitably, called the weak link of Yaolatl. More playboy than player, Tonaltzintli as a reputation that proceeds him, and his blasé attitude and frequent usage of Columbian cocaine (during the off-season, of course) causes him to clash with some of his more focused, passionate teammates, such as Fath and the team captain, Tetl. Tonaltzintli and Namacuiz mesh together well, on and off the field, and rumors have it that Namacuiz is a little more than responsible for Tonaltzintli's continued presence in the line-up. All that said, Tonaltzintli is a capable player... when he wants to be.

Midfielders
#5 Nezahualcoyotl Tetl, 28 [Central MF]
- Team Captain.
- Lithe and fast, "Hungry Coyote" was perhaps poorly named by his parents, as his prowess on the field is more catlike than canine. A fit midfielder with a great amount of stamina, Tetl is flexible enough to fall back and support the defensive line, if need be, or push forward aggressively to assist the forwards in a traditionally offensive Mexica style. Tetl is the core of the Mexica team, and his versatility and conditioning are instrumental in making the Aztec's 3-4-2-1 work effectively.

#6 Chima Acalquetzque, 24 [Central MF]
- Another fast Midfielder.

#7 Ezzo Camilhuiltic, 32, [RMF]

#8 Hualmehuatiquetz "Quetz" Nacaztli, 23 [LMF]

Offense
#9 Mohammed Imilhuil, 28, [Striker]
- The striker and Vice-Captain of the team, Imilhuil is a man of many angles, able to send the ball into the net at any degree.

#10 Emiliztli Icniuh, 30, [RFW]

#11 Jacques Vezina, 31, [LFW]
- The only French, Christian, white player on the team, Vezina is a formidable Left-Forward with great passing ability.

Substitutes
#12 Zorrah Hudhayfah, 26 [G]
#13 Tayyib Netlacolli, 31 [SW]
#14 Coatlicue Xochtli, 26 [R/LWB]
#15 Moctezuma Tlamatini, 27, [CMF]
#16 Netotilo Matlal, 32, [MF]
#17 Ometeotl Acalan, 34, [FW]
#18 Mixcoatl Pantacuhetl, 26, [Striker]

Tlachtli - Anauhuac's Premier Sports Network: Walmingtonian Dubbed Edition

NEWSCASTER: "Welcome, Anauhuac, to the 2011 World Cup Qualifiers. We come to you live from Our Aztecs will be playing first against the Byzantines, with me to talk more about this is Siddiq Tamir. Siddiq, what do you think about our team's chances in this first round? The Byzantines have, apparently, been in Chrinthania for quite some time, getting acclimated.

ST: "Well, y'know, our guys are practically playing on home turf, here, so that might garner them an advantage against other competitors, but not the Aztecs, who have practiced in such diverse climes as tropical Yoliliztlitlan and the deserts of Xicuahua and Moxillan.

NEWSCASTER: "And what do you think about the line-up itself, Siddiq?"

ST: I think the Aztecs can really make it pretty far in this Cup, if not take it. I mean, look, you've got four strong players that really cement the entire team together. I'm talking, of course, about Mohammed Imilhuil, Tetl, Fath, and Coaxoch.

NC: The striker, captain, sweeper, and goalkeeper, respectively.

ST: Absolutely. We're coming up against some pretty balanced and even defensive teams in these next few games, including but certainly not limited to Byzantium. The weakest aspect of the Aztec line-up, if I had to say, is the defensive line, even with Fath and Coaxoch. But we've yet to see any teams that have the men to put pressure on the Aztec's defense.

NC: Interesting points, Siddiq. Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us.

ST: Thank you!

[Belgeland]

Clearly sorta favourites.



Nation: Republiek der Belgeland
Team Nickname: Oranje, The Flying Dutchmen.
Style Modifier: +3
Formation: 4-4-2 (diamond)
Home stadium: Heysel Stadium

Kit:


Manager: Wouter Andriessen - former manager of Gulik, Genk and Grand Place FC, Andriessen had an average career as a player, most notably for Aachen, but has found his life purpose in management, leading Grand Place FC to back to back titles and winning the Dutch Cup with all three of the teams mentioned.
Assistant Manager: Peiter Dudok de Wit - a solid defender in his time, winning the league title back in 1999 with Standard Luik. His management career is less pronouced that Andriessens, struggling to make a name for himself in the lower leagues before taking SpVgg Sülz from the fourth to the second division and eventually being taken into the national team as a youth coach.
Offensive Coach: Dick Vermeulen.
Defensive Coach: Martijn Sweelinck.
Goalkeeper Coach: Tijs Westerholt.
Head Doctor: Willem van Rijn

Team roster.

Format: Name, [position], age, Club. Other guff.

First 11
1. Jan Corbijn, [GK], 31, Antwerpen. A long-term first choice between the sticks, Corbijn has been in the team of the season 7 of the last 10 seasons and is expected to give solid performances in the World Cup. *Vice-Captain*
2. Hendrick Soutendijk, [RB], 29, Genk.
3. Geertgen de Kooning, [LB], 23, A.A. Hamburger.
4. Erik Bruma, [CB], 24, Mönchengladbach.
5. Willem Strootman, [CB], 28, Vilvoorde FC. *Captain*
6. Luuk Mak, [DMF], 27, Grand Place FC. *Vice-Captain*
7. Jan Thijssen, [RW], 23, A.A. Saarbrücken.
8. Boudewijn van Roon, [AMF], 22, Grand Place FC.
9. Johan Quaeckernaeck, [SS], 22, A.A. Hamburger.
10. Dirk Roggeveen, [CF], 27, Nijmegen.
11. Boudewijn de Ruyter, [LW], 21, Sint Kruis.


Subs:
12. Klaas van Zweden, [GK], 27, Grand Place FC.
13. Herman Tromp, [MF], 29, Antwerpen.
14. Pier Dooyeweerd, [ST], 26, Zeebrugge.
15. Frederick de Graeff, [ST], 24, Mainz.
16. Joseph de Geer, [Wing], 23, Union Luxembourg.
17. Joop Oud, [SMF], 23, OKS Olsztyn.
18. Wim Geelkerken, [MF], 21, Vilvoorde FC.
19. Matthijs Tinné, [AMF], 27, Breda.
20. François Tasman, [DF], 23, Gulik.
21. Jan Thijssen, [SB], 23, Vilvoorde FC.
22. Frederik Pieterszoon, [CB], 26, Standard Luik.
23. Hieronymus de Hooch, [GK], 23, Mainz.


My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers Yes
Godmod scoring events Yes
RP injuries to my players Yes
Godmod injuries to my players No
Hand out yellow cards to my players Yes
Hand out red cards to my players Yes
Godmod other events Yes

[Europe - Prussia]

Valendian News Network

Chrinthanium 2011: Valendia v/s Amerique: Valendian National Team prepared for it's first match
Article taken from GOL! Magazine

It's have been very exhilarating the last few months for Valendian football. Not only the final of the Throne's Cup - the cup that gathers all of the Football Clubs of the Empire - which featured the classic game between the Barcelona F.C. and the F.C. Randgriz, and the final of the Seven Kingdoms Cup - the cup that gathers the seven kingdoms that forms the empire - which featured the game between Ordalia and Naples were considered the best games of the century, but also the Valendian National Team got their ticket to the world cup that this year will be held in Chrinthania after a resounding victory over France. Now, the team is already settled in their base of operations in the outskirts of the Chrinthani capital of Denver, preparing for their match this thursday against the national team of Franco-America in the Texas Memorial Stadium in the city of Austin, Texas. It's known that this year's team is formed by various stars and important players from La Liga, or also known as the Kaiserleague by the people who desn't speak Valendian, however there's a controversy because most of the players come from the Iberic peninsula. As expected, del Bosque has given no comment about this.

As usual, when we tried to get some footage of the team preparing we got expelled inmediately. La Albiroja's Head Coach Vicente del Bosque is widely known not only for his career as defensive midfielder in various teams, the most famous among them the F.C. Randgriz, and his strategies on the field which had taken the Valendia national team to a number of victories, cups and it's current position, but also Vicente del Bosque is known for his extreme paranoia and wishes to keep his privacy.

However, although del Bosque likes to keep his privacy, the list of the official players was released before they left for Chrinthania. Along the list, we offer a brief opinion about the most important players on the team:

Nation: Valendia
Team Nickname: La Albiroja
Style Modifier: +2
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Kit:



Roster:

Head Coach: Vicente del Bosque
Assistant Coach: Horst Akhler
Head of Medical Team: Marie Blanc MD

Captain: Iker Casillas
Vice - Captain: Xavi Hernandez
3rd Captain: Carles Puyol

Goalkeepers:
1.- Iker Casillas (30): The captain of the team, Iker is known for his great hability as a goalkeeper (until the final of the Throne's Cup, Iker had the record of being the longest unbeaten goalkeeper) and his great strategic thought and responsability. Brashness, specially in his position, is not allowed.
23.- Hugo Lloris (24, substitute)
12.- Victor Valdes (29, substitute)

Defenders:
17.- Álvaro Arbeloa (28, substitute)
6.- Paolo Cannavaro (30)
2.- Sébastien Squillaci (31)
3.- Gerard Piqué (24)
5.- Carles Puyol (33): The third captain of the team, Puyol is known to be a extremely skilled defender, being able to play at both wings, though he prefers to play at the center. He's known for his commitment and ruggedness as a defender. Also he's considered as the the strongest defender, who has the quickest reactions, and who has the most explosive strength. For this and more, he has gained the moniker 'The Wall' among the fan population (specially around Barcelona)
15.- Sergio Ramos (25, substitute)

Midfielders:
14.- Xabi Alonso (29): Xabi is known to be a very capable midfielder, and although he's quite reserved, he's known for his swift strikes in order to tip the balance to his team as quickly as possible.
16.- Sergio Busquets (23, substitute)
20.- Cesc Fábregas (24, substitute)
21.- Andrés Iniesta (27): One of the most vicious midfielders of the team, Iniesta is known for his balance, ball control and agility, which has allowed him to become one of the most famous playes on La Liga. Vicente del Bosque described him as 'the complete footballer. He can attack and defend, he creates and scores'
4.- Gennaro Gattuso (substitute)
13.- Louis el Satellizer (20): The youngest member of the team, and also called the Kaiser due his royal lineage (he's a cousin 3º removed of the emperor) and skill, Louis el Satellizer has been able to rose very quickly among the ranks of his team, the F.C. Toulouse, to the point that he was called to the national team. With a height of 5' 7'', Stellizer is what you can call a 'jack-of-all-trades', he can take almost any position with the exception of defense, yet his habilities lay at the center of the field.
8.- Xavi Hernandez (31): The team's vice-captain, Xavi has been claimed to the one of the best midfielders of his generation due his hability to find and exploit space. Xavi's abnormally good vision, pinpoint accurate passing and world class ball control allows him to dictate the flow of play whilst rarely relinquishing possession. His ability to completely control some matches has earned him the sobriquet, 'The Puppet Master'

Forward Midfielders/Strikers:
19.- Vincenzo Iaquinta (31, substitute)
18.- Pedro (24): One of the best strikers of La liga, Pedro is known for being ambidextrous, which has allowed him to play at either side of the field. He is known to always find the right position and for have very powerful shots, specially at long range.
9.- André-Pierre Gignac (25): Gignac can be considered the opposite of Pedro, but that doesn't make him less dangerous, as has been already proved when the Barcelona F.C. and the Marseille F.C. clash. Gignac is known to be a powerful and dangerous player, whose main strengths relies on his speed, aerial game and hability to extend to the wings if it's necessary.
7.- David Villa (29, substitute)



If my opponent RP's first they can:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes (don't go overboard with this please)
RP injuries to my players: Yes
Godmod injuries to my players: Within reason
Hand out Yellow cards to my players: Not more than 3 per match
Hand out Red cards to my players: Not more than 1 per match
Godmod Other Events: Yes, but TG or PM me first.

OOC: If I exaggerated with the France issue, i'll change it..

[Chrinthanium]

CSPN

Sports Caster: And in World Cup news, we've spent a lot of time discussion the off-the-field exploits of Kory Slater, but in this segment we'd like to talk about another young man at the forefront of the Chrinthani offense. A young man by the name of Kyle Swain and how he has risen to such lofty heights.

SC: Kyle was born to an alcoholic father and an abusive mother. Life for the young soccer star was anything but fun.

[camera cuts to Kyle sitting in an interview room wearing the Chrinthani National Team Jersey]

KS: See, when I was a kid, I walked to school, 8 blocks, every day through that neighborhood. I was constantly harassed by drug pushers and gang bangers as a kid. It wasn't something that any kid should have to do, but when you consider my dad never met a bottle he didn't like, and mom's idea of love was to beat me until I couldn't move, I guess you have to do what you have to.

[camera cuts to the neighborhood in which Kyle grew up. Showing scenes of drug transactions, police cars with lights flashing, and gangs walking the streets in their colors as the sports caster continues]

SC: At age 5 Kyle dad decided to get drunk, then take the family's car out for a joy ride. On the evening of December 12th, 1995, police came to his home and explained that Bobby Lee had passed out while behind the wheel and crashed head first into a tractor trailer. The news shook Kyle's who life.

[camera cuts back to Kyle]

KS: I mean, yeah my dad was an alcoholic, but I still love him. Every kid love his pa. I think that's when I got quiet like. Stopped really talking unless I had something to say. Mom didn't really take the news. She blamed me for what happen cause daddy went out for a good drunk cause I skipped school that day. I mean, imagine being 5 and having your ma tell you that you're the reason your daddy is dead. That'll f**k a kid up.

SC [sitting in front of Kyle at the interview desk]: What happened after that.

KS: Ma though it a good idea to slap me around for about an hour. I went to school the next day and the school called social services. Within a few months, I was taken from her and put in the system.

SC: How did that affect you?

KS: I mean, how do you think? I was really screwed up at that point. I was in counselling five days a week. I... I just remember feeling like I had done something wrong.

SC: How long were you in therapy.

KS: God, about 5 years.

SC: And what happened after that.

KS: [Kyle turns his arms over so his palms are up and points to his right wrist upon which is a scar] I slit my wrists cause I was in therapy. No one wanted a messed up kid. Then it was right back to therapy for 4 more years.

SC: That's horrible.

KS: I know, but I had ta, I mean, if it wasn't for the care of Dr. Pratt, I'd probably be no better than those kids in my old neighborhood. He helped me realize that there wasn't nothing wrong with me.

SC: So, you told me that, and let me see if I have this right, you were then placed in the home of Mildred Schlarp, a 55 year old woman in Houston.

KS: Yeah. Mrs. Schlarp was great. She was the mother I never had, and the mother I always wanted. I remember the first Christmas at her house. She got me a play station with a hold mess of games. I remember there was one I fell in love with. IAFF 2003.

SC: And from that game you decided?

KS: To try out for the school soccer team. And sure 'nuff I made it, though as reserve midfielder.

SC: How did you go from reserve midfielder to forward?

KS: Coach Horn. He told me, "Kid, you got moxy." I didn't know what that was, but it seemed that was what I needed. He told me to get to the front and attack.

SC: The rest was history.

KS: Indeed.

SC [back live in the studio]: Kyle would go on to play for the University of Oklahoma's Collegiate soccer team. He would come out of school to go pro at age 19.

[cuts back to video of the interview]

KS: I regret not finish up school, but I will go back. Ain't nothin more important than an education. But I had to give this a shot. Soccer gave me something to live for. And, now, I just want to play soccer. And to be in my first world cup, but not only that, it's in my home nation. I mean, what I thrill.

SC: Switching gears here, let me ask you about Kory Slater.

KS [smiles, then starts laughing]: Okay.

SC: You lose to his team in the Chrinthani Cup, now you're teammates in The Union. What do you make of him?

KS: A good player, a damn good player. He has a good head for the game. I think he'll calm down next season in the MLS.

SC: Calm down? You mean on or off the field?

KS: [laughs again] I mean on the field. I ain't gonna say nothin about off the field. He can live how he sees fit, and I'll live how I see fit. Right now we're teammates, and our goal is to win tomorrow against Arabia and, hopefully, win the World Cup trophy in front of the home crowd.

[camera cuts back to live broadcast]

SC: Well, you can see the full Kyle Swain interview on CSPN.net. Coming up next on Soccer Today, we'll talk to Luke Simpsons wife who is expecting the couple's 6th child, then we'll me Melvin Young, a freshman defender at the University of California as Los Angeles and his new role as a starter.

[camera cuts to an advertisement from the Belgeland Tourism Bureau]

[Chrinthanium]

MATCH DAY 1 RESULTS

And here are the scored from today's matches. Winners are in red!

Group A & B Results

Areopagitican 1-2 Nibelunc
Beddgelert 3-2 Menzhigalh
Arabia 1-3 Chrinthania
Gandvik 2-0 Belgeland

Standings:

Code: Select all

A Standings

   Team             P W D L For Ag +/- Pts
 1 Beddgelert        1 1 0 0  3  2  +1  3
 2 Nibelunc          1 1 0 0  2  1  +1  3
 3 Menzhigalh        1 0 0 1  2  3  -1  0
 4 Areopagitican     1 0 0 1  1  2  -1  0



B Standings

   Team           P W D L For Ag +/- Pts
 1 Chrinthania     1 1 0 0  3  1  +2  3
 2 Gandvik         1 1 0 0  2  0  +2  3
 3 Arabia          1 0 0 1  1  3  -2  0
 4 Belgeland       1 0 0 1  0  2  -2  0

[Chrinthanium]

World Cup 2011 Post Game Report

Announcer: Live from Reliant Stadium, this is CSPN's World Cup Report!

BG: Hi, this is Ben Gabriel and with me as always is Jonah Whaler

JW: Ben, good to be here.

BG: The scene was magical when both clubs took the field. You could feel a sense of pride resonate through both clubs as the national anthems of each nation play, then the preliminaries, then the match started. And it seemed all the magic fled from Arabia.

JW: Yeah, Ben, just watch this play [camera cuts to tape of the match with Slater racing down towards the goaline of Arabia]. Right out of the gate we see Kory Slater take control of the ball and challenge the Arabian defense. He literally sliced through their 6-man midfield and went almost unabated to the keeper.

BG: Yeah, I have no idea what they were thinking on this Arabian team letting him get so free with the ball. He wins the challenge and the Chrinthani are up 1-0 in minute 4.

[camera cuts to Arabian coach, who appears to be lost]

JW: This couldn't have been a good scene for Arabia. Sir Todd Elray seemed that he didn't even realize he was coaching a World Cup team as he started to look around in bemusement.

BG: Well, he is going to be 78 before this cup is over. Perhaps he's a bit senile.

JW: Send him to LAX, have him putter around the airport mumbling about zippers, folks. Still, Arabia was not without hope. In minute 32, Ian Ulrich slips right past Archuleta to make a great shot against Simpson.

[cuts to tape of the goal]

BG: Archuleta stepped right about a foot too far, Ulrich sailed right along the boundary line and nailed this shot. Simpson obviously upset here.

BG: Seemed the ball sailed right by him. Simpson, 31, misjudged his dive, and we have a ball game, 1-1.

JW: Minute 44, guess what happens?

BG: Sir Todd Elray had a heart attack?

JW: No, Kyle Swain passing the ball to Kory Slater down by the Arabian goal, Slater sails one just out of reach of Mark Brussels. Watch this [came shows tape of goal], that ball was less than 1 inch away from the fingertips of Brussels. Great maneuver on his part, but still the ball nails the back of the net, Chrinthania up 2-1.

BG: Yeah, just a great play by Slater who's playing like a man possessed out there.

JW: Arabia just didn't seem into it after the start of the 2nd period. Right here, we see Kyle Swain drive right past the midfield.

BG: Well, Coach Elray was having a heart attack, or so we thought. Turned out to just be gas.

JW: Still, you don't stop playing because of that. Minute 49, Swain breaks through the line, but Brussels make the saves, score still 2-1 Chrinthania.

BG: We see the play of the Arabia goal keeper. Very young, very wet-behind-the-ears, but an excellent save in a desperate situation for Arabia.

JW: Jump to minute 77.

BG: Right here we see Swain with the ball. He challenges 18 year old Mark Anton who mistimed his block, Swain to the goal, Swain with the shot and right under the crossbar, into the net, 3-1 Chrinthania.

JW: Brussels again mistimes his jump. Another half second earlier, and that ball is blocked like Elray's arteries.

BG: Minute 89, the Arabians with a chance to score, but Simpson blocks the shot by Ulrich, Chrinthania hands Arabia a defeat and then, the crowd erupted.

JW: Yeah, for a sport with declining viewership in Chrinthania, the stars were flying high in Texas.

BG: Yes. A win on the home field in Houston for the Union. Let's go to CSPN's Michele Norris on the field with Kory Slater.

[camera cuts to a very attractive 31 year old woman with Kory Slater, sweaty and still in uniform on the field.]

MN: Kory, 2 goals in your first ever World Cup game, how do you feel?

KS: I admit that even I was surprised that I got 2 goals. The Arabian defense seemed to be lacking a bit. Strong midfield, but if you got past them, the goal was almost a given.

MN: Minute 4, you've got the ball. What are you thinking.

KS: [smiles and laughs] score, baby, just score.

MN: And the play in minute 44 when Swain passed to you?

KS: Surprised. He had a great shot on the goal, but he thought I was in better position. He's one hell of a great player, and I owe him one for that.

MN: Well, he did share in the goal scoring in minute 77.

KS: Yeah, he was open midfield, I passed to him, he took his natural talent and made the Arabians choke on his dust.

MN: And now you face down Gandvik, who blanked the perennial favorite Belgeland team. What do you think your chances are?

KS: Well, I think we'll win.

MN: Guys, back to you.

[camera cuts back to the studio]

BG: Thanks, Michele. We've got to take a break right now, but when we return, Belgeland falls to Gandvik of all teams, and we'll preview the match set for this Friday between Chrinthania and Gandvik. Also, we'll talk to Coach Lipton about his first win as skipper of The Union. Stay tuned to CSPN. This is Sports Beat.

[Beddgelert]

Sianel-2

“It's time, at last, brothers and sisters, for the opening round of fixtures in the association football world cup. We're here in Cowboys Stadium, or something, in Dallas, which I'm assured has probably nothing to do with Sir Dallas of Saharna, whom we all hope is dead, or at least being shot at. The crowd's already in place, I can see about, oh, two thousand and forty Geletians amongst them, and I can't hear anything, because the man with the carnyx has ruptured my eardrums. As we wait, then, for the kicking to begin, or my hearing to return, let's have a look ahead at the competition to come, and what sort of a challenge we're in for if Beddgelert is to go the long haul in this thing, for some reason.”

Gorranmawr, Channel-2's resident sports anchor, was in fine spirits, by his standards, loaded up to the eyeballs on Chrinthani wine, having had his Scordisci ale confiscated by anti-terror police on arriving at Dallas airport. His cubicle over-looking the pitch was littered with three empty bottles and one going on, and cigarette packets, some of which he'd ripped in frustration at the strangeness of foreign smokes, which were considerably nicer than Geletian ones, much to the Celt's annoyance. Though outnumbered massively by locals in the crowd, the Geletians were creating a terrible din, their carnyx-derived horns wailing, honking, shrieking, and grumbling in their hundreds.

“While some of these foreign bairns are paid tens of millions of guilders -even in countries that don't tend to follow the game much more closely than the majority of Geletians do-, our players are paid in clear fruit brandy, pork, and punching, like real sportsmen in the proper games... Geletian rules... hurling... bareknuckle boxing... chariot racing... hopscotch... and so on.

”Some people think that the lack of coaching and management staff -and a twenty-third squad member- may count against Beddgelert in the tournament, and that four-four-two long-ball is the least creative and most outmoded style of play imaginable. But, if it works, there's no need for a manager and new ideas, and if it doesn't, well the boyos know that they're not kicking hard enough or running fast enough. Since most Geletian club sides share playing surfaces with Geletian-rules teams, they're used to playing on torn-up surfaces where It doesn't make sense to keep the ball down, so we'll see whether Beddgelert's trouble closing down foreign passing games is going to be any greater than other sides' likely struggle to get the better of the Celts in the air. All the delicate build-up play in the world won't stop Pepe Le Fancyboots being muscled off the ball by Colof Apelian, and the most mobile defence in the world won't be much good if it has to choose between staying back to out-jump Buadaoine ó Sathairnon and coming up to out-run Duwon Mapmaros.

“We may not have the support staff, we may not have the footballing academies, we may not have the multi million guilder salaries and endorsement deals, and we may not all have the close ball skills and fancy over-head kicks, but if the Geletians can run with strides a foot longer than the opposition's, leap a head higher, and kick a ball harder, it may be that none of it matters.

”And I can see some monks, or something... the players are coming out on to the pitch. The pundits say Niebelunc - Beddgelert - Areopagitican - Menzhigalh in this group, but nobody really knows much of anything about the latter two sides, so it's a lot of useless guess work, really, and we'll learn a lot today. Or maybe not, I don't care.”

With television cameras struggling to handle the garish chequered strips worn by the Geletians and announcers to be heard over the din of the carnyces, Beddgelert and Menzhigalh took the field in Chrinthania for the first time together. While towering forward Buadaoine ó Sathairnon rubbed his shaven head and paced in the centre circle, towering... just about everyone else in the green and red squares stroked their drooping moustaches and shook their long manes and waited for the referee's signal to begin Group A's story.

The whistle blew, and Buadaoine turned about just in time to receive the ball from strike-partner Demeter o Dŵrpoethon's kick-off, striking it forcefully with his first touch in the direction of the Menzhigalh goal, hoping to catch the goalkeeper unprepared. The ball landed just a few yards in front of the keeper, still in line with the goal, and bounced over his head, no doubt leaving him sickened at the prospect of conceding probably the fastest goal in world cup history. But the bounce was too great, and blushes saved by the cross-bar, which was struck with a fair degree of force for a strike from such range and deflected the ball back towards the scrambling goalie, who promptly fumbled it off the pitch just inches wide of the post.


”Corner to Beddgelert! What a leper! I think his hands have fallen off with his jaw!”
-Gorranmawr conveys to television audiences something of the excitement expressed by Geletians in the crowd as the Celts win a corner kick

”Mapmaros to take, Apelian and Aparatoi have come up to support the forwards, Omargastorix lurks just outside the area... the corner comes in, Buadaoine is swarmed, surely he's being held!.. No signal from the officials!.. the keeper shapes to punch clear -it could fall for Omargastorix if he does!- wait, now there's a flag on the far side... free kick to the monks!? What's this? Arluwin Aparatoi cautioned for obstructing the keeper! I didn't see it.. Beddgelert have to get back, here, as the free kick's taken quickly and Menzhigalh counter attack, the game isn't even ninety seconds old! They're coming forward in strength on the right, and Aparatoi's still not back in position to stop them, I don't believe it, they're through... one on one... but it's a wide angle cutting in from the wing, Decidavarix makes himself as big as possible... he parries! Great stop! But Aparatoi and the opposition striker are in a race to gather the loose ball!.. Oh, Akuta's spew! The monk got there first by a half a second, and Aparatoi's crashed straight through him, inside the area... the referee's calling him over, yes, he was the last man... it's a straight red!.. though a yellow would have sufficed to dispatch the Geletian number three... and a penalty to Menzhigalh with barely more than two minutes on the clock.

“Goal. Beddgelert one down. So much for Y Sbortóanghii scoring the first goal of the competition, that honour probably belongs to Menzhigalh, unless something similarly dramatic has happened over in Houston.”

Around the stadium hundreds of carnyces fell silent, and one sounded a quizzical toot. Bloody monks.

A man down for what turned out to be ninety-four minutes with added time, the Geletians remained a goal down for only seventeen minutes before Omargastorix chipped the ball forward to be collected by an over-lapping Segomon Apaelianos, who showed unusually proficient close-control for a Geletian then muscled aside a challenge from a chasing defender before guiding the ball easily by the Menzhigalhi keeper to level the scores, where they remained until after the break. A headed goal from Buadaoine on 52 minutes and a completely miscued strike on 76 -which deceived the keeper only as much as it did Buadaoine himself- seemed to have put the game beyond doubt as Menzhigalhi struggled to make their extra man tell against the pace and power of the Celts, who declined to make an immediate substitution to account for the loss of a defender but had Colof Apelian drop back occasionally from midfield and otherwise kept up near constant pressure with a fairly direct style of play.

With just four minutes of normal time left the Asian outfit ensured a tense finish by bracketing the Celts' three successive goals between their own, scoring almost as close to the final whistle as they had to the first. In his slurred summing up of the match, Gorranmawr raised concerns that not only would Aparatoi's suspension weaken the defence, but that spending most of the first match playing catch-up under the Texan sun with just ten men had drained the players more than was expected of a supposedly easy opening encounter with, “a lot of hippy Hittites”. The nature of the second Menzhigalhi goal strongly suggested that the Celts had run themselves down as the lesser-rated side broke through a flagging defence and looked in with a chance of an equaliser before two late substitutions brought on fresh legs. ”On the other hand, it's probably as hot in Menzhigalhi as it is in this fecking place, so maybe it's just a matter of acclimatisation. Good night, Beddgelert, I'll see you in Pasadena, where apparently they're all very very smart, or very very stupid, with nobody in between, unless this television's been lying to me through mild comedy.”

[Ferkas]

Sports Review Network

[Mark and John are sitting behind the same desk as before. A screen to the side of the desk shows the final minutes of the game again, then goes back to show Ulrich's goal in slow motion. Mark begins to speak.]

Mark - "Well John, I really hope this match doesn't set the tone for all of our games, or else this is going to be one short cup run for Arabia."

John - "Couldn't agree more. It really looks like we could be out a job soon if they don't pick it up on the pitch. A 3-1 defeat in the opening...that can't sit well with the players."

M - "Or with the coaches. The foreign press might have been right about one thing, Elray is old. But he sure is competitive, losing like this must drive him up a wall."

[The camera breaks away as a recording from earlier that day is shown. A reporter had managed to get a camera near the post game team meeting, illuminating a rather interesting scene. Elray, running and jumping around the locker room, yelling at his younger players. In the corner can be seen the teams coaches, all giving disapproving stares to the team. At one point Elray actually launches himself off a locker room bench and stumbles his landing. He is back up in less than a second however. At one point he even shoves the much larger, fitter, and younger Aamir Richards. His comments, which made sense when he began to speak, deteriorate to the point of being little more than nonsense. At one point the phrase "you played like a bunch of sissy little unicorn hippies" can be heard.]

J [Laughing] - "Yes, it sure would seem that Elray hates to lose. Did he actually call them unicorn hippies?"

M - "Yea, I guess he did. No clue what that is suppose to mean, and no one from the team has made any comment on the video yet."

J - "True. But hating defeat, and some crazy speeches, might not be enough to save this team. That one player from Chrinthania, Slater, seems to have made a good point. Any team that can beat our midfield, at this point, will crush us. Our defense needs to step it up a notch. Heck, they need to take it up two or three notches if they really want to play at an international level."

M - "Yes, I agree with that. They didn't have as much hustle as they usually do. A few of those breaks, especially that first one, shouldn't have been allowed to happen. The midfield line got caught too far forward and just didn't respond in time. That left Slater an almost clear run to the first goal."

J - "Exactly, and we can't afford to be down less than five minutes in. Elray has always depended on taking the momentum early, and today they were the ones who got taken."

M - "With all that in mind, what do you think are our chances later this week when we try to take on Belgeland? They are usually regarded as a pretty strong team, but they did get shut down 2-0 when they just played Gandvik."

J - "I think we have a fair chance, but only if we can get to what I talked about earlier. That middle line has to respond quicker. If they do then we should be able to at least put some real pressure on anyone that they place."

M - "Makes sense to me. And the score that Belgeland posted, 2-0, that has to be a bit helpful, right?"

J - "I would have to say yes, to a degree. The team will benefit knowing that they aren't going against anyone who is crushing right now. But at the same time, its hard to pin down exactly who strong the team from Gandivk is. Heck, I didn't even know they could leave the ice up there, must less play a game of soccer."

M- "Makes sense to me. Now, looking towards the future and our third game is against Gandivk. If you had to guess, which you do, who would you put as the early favorite in that?"

J - "Thanks for putting me on the spot! In all reality I don't want to guess until I see how this next game plays out, for us and Gandivk. If the Chrinnies can blank them, and if we can handle Belgeland, then we should be fine. But if they play them to a draw, or win it, I think we are in trouble."

M - "Come on John, I want a straight answer. Us or them, who takes the win?"

J - "Oh gosh...well, if I get run out of town its your fault. But I have to give the early nod to Gandivk."

M - "Ah, a traitor!"

[Canned laughter]

M - "But seriously, I have faith in our guys. Hopefully Elray can set them right. Maybe beat them over the head with his cane as he reads them some Tolstoy."

J - "Didn't he do that at the '03 Divisional game?"

M - "Nah. I think he was reading Don Quixote then. And he hit them with a bunch of bananas. Learn your sport history."

[Exit music begins to play. And as if to answer the question on any foreign viewers mind, footage begins to play, showing Elray throwing bananas at his players as he talks about attacking windmills.]

[Maxen von Bismarck]

((OOC: Just a pre-match/sort-of-match post, I'll leave everything about the game up to you Cass. ))

Areopagitican did not quite know how to react when their national soccer team was invited to play in Chrinthania. They, of course, expected to be invited to the international community's most fabulous events. Yet it was one thing to expect such treatment and it was another to receive it. Many interpreted it as a sign from God for a dose of evangelicalism. The first game's location, in one of the driest and most inhospitable areas in all of Chrinthania, was merely an added bonus.

In their own curious manner the populace of the Exarchate were fiercely proud of their team. It wasn't a particularly winning team, but there was a certain ineluctable charm that soccer possessed. It transcended the boundaries that divided Areopagitican from the world. No matter how troublesome the country became, there was always soccer. True, few people confused the insincere captations with true acceptance of the Exarchate's more eccentric propositions--such as heretic burning. Yet there was a certain electricity about not being treated as the world's misanthrope. Even if for just a game.

The Areopagite section of the stadium was noticeable for its strict, almost monolithic, adoption of the Exarchate's nation color: Tyrian Purple. The homogeneity was, likely, a bit startling to a wider world obsessed with every, single person finding their own unique identity. No matter how impious. As a result security at the match quickly found themselves spending a disproportionately large amount of their time consoling the aggrieved. It was something of a culture shock for both sides.

Memorable experiences were, at any rate, rife. After being called on to "abnegate" his defense of an unlucky lesbian couple, who had found themselves surrounded by a sea of Tyrian, the security chief for that particular section of Sun Devil Stadium announced his early retirement. In a separate instance, several concierge stands were set alight by disgruntled customers--almost wholly Areos--once it became known that the odd hieroglyphics on their tickets translated to 'Sun Devil' Stadium. Apparently, no one thought whether it was the most apt location for fans on both sides of the field.

During the game the Areos' inclination to peaceful integration hardly improved. The stadium's guest services had already done the sensible thing and relocated the majority of the Areos together while ensuring that those who wanted to leave the menacing looking North Africans' bloc were able to do so. Yet even still, fights broke out. Not the usual soccer brawls, either. These Areos, they were a whole different ball game.

During the match, even at the most dramatic turns, there was very little joviality among the congregated Areos. Dispensers of food, drink and trinkets were all but thrown out. The almost religious fascination with the unfolding events merely reinforced many of the other fan-goer's preconceptions about the odd prudes of the world's perennial problem. As the game wore on, and the volubility of the Nibeluncs--especially--grew in tandem with their consumption of savory schnapps. The simmering judgement of the stands' most silent group grew ever more tedious.

There was, however, no complete disregard for the social norms of Chrinthania or Areopagitican. Memorable instances were an entirely separate thing than, say, a burning. Tabloids across the West, especially the left-wing rags, had expected a cruel scene where the hosts would be crucified by the guests. As if such an eventuality could even be considered by Lpqic Orthodoxy. There may have been a few stones thrown, on principle, but it never got much worse than disapproving stares. Perhaps few pushes in the right direction, and at worst a quick shot to the offending heretic's jejunum.

[Jatriqya and Hoya]

BSN - Byzantine Sports Network

Sports Analyst: Later today, or national team will play Anauhuac in our first game of the 2011 IAFF World Cup in Chrinthanium. Direct from Oklahoma City, we meet fans from all over Byzantium.

View of a group of Byzantines in Oklahoma City appears, with a news reporter in front

News Reporter: Thanks, Georgios. I'm here in Oklahoma City where the spirit is high. Behind me, as you can see, there's no lack of Byzantine fans to show their support. We've seen fans with everything from banners to lightning bolts.

Behind the News Reporter, a fan brandishes a lightning bolt. Flags of the Empire are proudly waved by some fans while another brandishes a Romanian and Greek sign, "Bizanţ, Vom câştiga! Βυζάντιο, Θα κερδίσουμε!" meaning Byzantium, We'll Win!

SA: Clearly the support for the team is immense, I'm sure that Oklahomans aren't used to having such a diverse group parading in the streets.

NR: Yes, Georgios, this is definitely a larger number of Byzantines than anyone expected to go to Chrinthanium, and the number will only grow consider that next week and the week after are Autumn Break in Byzantium and fans are surely going to travel to Chrinthanium.

SA: Thanks Elena, now let's talk about our chances against Anauhuac in today's game.

Screen goes back to sports room

Sports Analyst: Today's game is sure to be a tough one against Anauhuac - they have a very strong team. I think that we might have a slight edge because of our varied training regime, but it's very hard to say who will go out on top. Unfortunately, it's 13:00, and we'll have to tune out for lunch. Cable will be back on at 15:30 at the end of lunch.

[Chrinthanium]

Matchday 2 Results:

Winners in red

Anauhuac 2-1 Byzantine Empire
Avarga 0-3 Bohaemia
Amerique 1-4 Valendia
Attica 2-0 Cassanos

Code: Select all

C Standings

   Team                P W D L For Ag +/- Pts
 1 Bohaemia             1 1 0 0  3  0  +3  3
 2 Anauhuac             1 1 0 0  2  1  +1  3
 3 Byzantine Empire     1 0 0 1  1  2  -1  0
 4 Avarga               1 0 0 1  0  3  -3  0



D Standings

   Team        P W D L For Ag +/- Pts
 1 Valendia     1 1 0 0  4  1  +3  3
 2 Attica       1 1 0 0  2  0  +2  3
 3 Cassanos     1 0 0 1  0  2  -2  0
 4 Amerique     1 0 0 1  1  4  -3  0

[Ferkas]

Sports Review Network

[Yet again viewers see John and Mark sitting behind a desk with a foreign skyline behind them. The intro music sequence, complete with music and highlights from the first two days of games, has played through.]

M - "Hello again Arabia. We are coming to you live still from Chrinthania, host of the 2011 World Cup, where the second day of competition has just drawn to a close. Today featured the teams in groups C and D going against each other and had some excellent play. But perhaps the most interesting news of the day, at least for our Arabian fans, doesn't come from the pitch."

J - [Chuckles] "Yes, I would have to agree with that. Sure, the match between Anauhuac and the Byzantines was a close one, and we got to see some dominating action from some other teams such as Valendia and Bohaemia. But that pales in comparison to the never ending bucket of surprises which is His Honorable Lordship Sir Elray, our own national team manager."

M - "So true John, so true. The foreign press, which has already had plenty of fun commenting on his age, should have a field day with this one. For those of you who haven't heard the news already let us just give you a quick overview of what happened. Trust us, its good for some laughs, but probably a cause of concern also."

J - "Yes, plenty of laughs and plenty of concern. So, our boys in blue made the trip over to Tucson today, which is where their game tomorrow is against Belgeland. Being that they work at least fairly hard, they get a bit of an appetite. Makes sense so far, right? Well, where as most teams might decide to hit up a local resturant, get some good food then hit the sack for the night. But not any team that is lead by Sir Todd Elray, that much is certain!"

M - "Yes. Instead of deciding to grab some local grub, Elray lead our boys out to the desert. Now, that alone should be pretty confusing, right? Not much to eat in the desert, unless you like rocks. But Elray had got it in his head that the best thing for the team to do would be, get this...club assorted lizards and cook them over an open fire. For dinner. Clubbing lizard, and a fire."

[As Mark speaks his face contorts into some odd manifestation of humor, anger, and confusion. John just looks like he can barely stop himself from laughing out loud.]

J - "But Mark, don't leave out the best part!"

M - "Yes, of course, how could I forget what happened next! Turns out, some lizards are protected in Chrinthania. Who would have known, right? Turns out that the police would know that sort of thing. Which explains why Elray and our other boys almost got to spend tonight in jail."

J - "Classic Elray right there. I mean, that is a thing of beauty. What was he reading as they went lizard hunting, do we know?"

M - "Oh yes, Elray and his readings. I've heard rumors, only rumors though, that todays selection was from Exodus 16, about the manna in the desert. I guess that raises a whole host of potential theological questions, am I right?"

J - "No clue. I would have to ask my priest if lizards count as manna..."

M - "Pretty sure that they don't. Just to save you some time with that question."

J - "Thanks Mark, thanks for clearing that up."

M - "Not a problem, I'm glad to help. Anyway, like I said earlier, this is somewhat worrisome for our team, wouldn't you agree?"

[Both mens faces become much more serious.]

J - "Well, yea, duh. For one, I've never heard of lizard as a good pre game dinner. And the whole stress from dealing with the police the night before a big game..."

M - "Not to mention any potential hydration issues. I heard they were out there for at least a few hours. And Elray is well known for not always allowing water to be at practice, so he probably didn't bring it on that little excursion."

J - "True, but he does usually bring a fair bit of wine for himself, maybe the players got some of that."

M - "Either way, this could have a huge impact on how our team plays tomorrow. Hopefully they can all get a fair nights sleep and avoid any odd food poisoning issues."

J - But that's enough about that. Lets talk at least a little about the other games of the day."

M - "Well, what is there to say?"

J - "Good question...well, I for one was amazed by that Bohaemia/Avarga game. I mean, Bohaemia just dominated, it never even looked like Avarga was in it."

M - "True. Some times it looked like the Avargans must have been sleeping. 3-0 in an opening match...dang, that makes us look pretty good!"

J - "Hey, play nice! Our boys are doing just...well...they are doing just mediocre!"

M - "Exactly. And when I look at the results I was much more excited by that match between Anauhuac and the Byzantines."

J - "That was a good one. To be honest, I think I rooted for the Byzantines in that one. Not cause I have any special love for them...I just can't stand that Dhakwan Fath fellow playing for the Aztecs."

M - "Oh, you mean their import?"

J - "Exactly! They stole him! He could have been a huge part of our defensive line. That guy has skill, but he goes and ditches him homeland just to go play with some dirty Aztecs. What the heck is that about!?"

[An awkward look passes over Marks face.]

M - "You do know that he was six when his family moved to Anauhuac, right? I mean, it wasn't his decision to go. Heck, he probably wasn't a national, let alone international, player at that point..."

[An awkward silence for several seconds as Mark glares at John.]

J - Oh, well...I guess...maybe I've been a little harsh...should probably maybe...think about apologizing...I guess."

M - "Yea, you might want to. But its too late now. We will be back later tonight with some updates in the National Cross Country League, plus some coverage of University level sports."

[Exit music plays.]

[Chrinthanium]

CBC News

"Good evening, I'm Chet Brinkley and this a CBC News brief. Tonight, a stern warning to international spectators and players alike from the Department of Justice. According to the Attorney General, visitors and players alike to Chrinthania will be expected to adhere to our laws at all times. Recent event including the burning of a few concession stands, and the 'worrying' of a lesbian couple by some Areopagite religious types are, in fact, illegal in Chrinthania."

"In more World Cup news, it would appear that the coach and several members of the Arabian national team were arrested for violation of environmental laws when they were spotted cooking and eating Sonoran Tiger Salamanders, which are on the endangered species list. They were quickly release from jail, however Sir Elray was held behind for some psychological testing. More news on that story as it develops."

"And apparently Kory Slater is making news again, this time, for his good deeds. Slater announced today that he will be teaming up with Smokey the Bear to help raise wildfire awareness. According to the Department of the Interior, Slater has pledged to donate 5 million dollars over the next 5 years to help victims of wildfires. The campaign will feature nationwide advertising where Slater and Smokey the Bear continue to teach children about the importance of fire safety, followed by the pair uttering the most favor line, 'only you can prevent forest fires."

"Taking a look at weather, Tropical Storm Philippe continues to intensify as it moves towards the West Northwest in the Gulf. Maximum sustained winds have reached 70mph, and gradual strengthening is forecast over the next 2 days as it makes its way in the general direction of Texas. A Hurricane Watch has been issued for the coast of Texas from Brownsville to Galveston, including the Houston Metropolitan Area. A Hurricane Warning may be required for portions of the Texas coast beginning tomorrow. Cold temperatures dominate the landscape with the exception of the desert Southwest. Expect lows in Oklahoma City to near freezing tonight with much colder air situated in the Great Plains from Nebraska northward. Showers and storms are moving to the East out of Missouri and towards Amerique. Meanwhile another system is beginning to approach Great Walmington and Oregon, which could being some wet weather to the intermountain center and the Great Plain by Friday and Saturday."



"I'm Chet Brinkley, and this has been a CBC News Brief."

[Chrinthanium]

CBC Breaking News

The National Hurricane Center in Houston, Texas has issued a Hurricane Warning this afternoon from Corpus Christi, Texas to Port Arthur, Texas. A Hurricane Watch remains in effect from South of Corpus Christi, Texas to Brownsville, Texas. Hurricane Hunter aircraft reported an hour ago that Philippe has maximum sustained winds of 80mph now, making Philippe a Category 1 Hurricane on the Scale of Hurricane Intensity. Residents in the warning area are urged to complete tasks to save life and property.

The forecast models have shifted to the right, or the East, of the previous forecast track as a high pressure system over the Commonwealth of Virginia has shifted farther East. Philippe is expected to continue to move around the Southwestern and Western edge of this high over the next 48 hours and increase speed. Philippe is expected to strike the Texas coast sometime either late on Friday night or Early Saturday morning. This should take the eye of Hurricane Philippe to the West of Houston if the forecast track holds true. Residents to the East of the eye should expect to see storm surge in the range of 7-10 feet above mean sea level as the eye approaches.

In response to the thread from Hurricane Philippe, the World Cup matches scheduled for Reliant Stadium, Gandvik vs Chrinthania, and Cowboys Stadium, Menzhigahl vs Areopagitican have been moved. The Ganvik/Chrinthania game will now be played at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego while the Menzhigahl/Areopagitican game will be held at Sam Boyd stadium in Las Vegas on Friday. Saturday's match between Anauhuac and Bohaemia, scheduled for Oklahoma City, will be played at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California and the match between Avarga and Byzantium which was scheduled for Austin, Texas will now be played at Sun Devil Stadium in Tucson, Arizona.

For all the latest news, weather, sports, and entertainment, keep it tuned to CBC! We now rejoin our regularly scheduled programming.

[Ferkas]

Sports Review Network

[Mark and John, again sitting behind their desk. Cityscape in the background behind them.]


M - "We come to you live with breaking news from Chrinthania regarding the ongoing World Cup."

J - "But first, to calm any fears, our team has not died of food poisoning from any illicit dining habits last night. Nor have they been thrown into jail, although I am sure that at least a few Chrinthani environmental officials wish that Elray would just leave them alone."

M - "Yes, that is all true. In fact, todays breaking news is in no way the fault of anyone, assuming that you ask a more...ummm...balanced, person."The Chrithani National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane warning for the area around Corpus Christi to Port Arthur and a hurricane watch from Corpus Christi to Brownsville, all in Texas. This has forced the relocation of several World Cup games away from the coast."

J - "Indeed. The Ganvik/Chrintani game, which was suppose to be in Reliant Stadium, has been moved to Qualcomm Stadium, in San Diego. Meanwhile the Menzhigahl/Areopagitican, first scheduled for Cowboys Stadium, will be moved to Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas."

M - "In addition the match on Saturday between Anauhuac and Bohaemia, first planned for Oklahoma City will be moved to Pasadena. The Avarga/Byzantium, first planned for Austin will now be held in Tucson. Don't worry about your viewing options, as our camera crews have also moved. Tomorrows match between Ganvik and Chrinthani will be shown on Sports Review Network Alternate in its live time slot. The game between Menzhigahl and Aeropagitican will be shown after."

J - "And the Anauhuac/Bohaemia game, as well as the Avarga/Byzantium game, will both be shown live on Sports Review Network Alternate channels. But that isn't the most interesting news for Arabian fans, although in all honesty it might be more useful."

M - "So true. In what has become a sad trend, the most intriguing news of the day comes from the odd actions of our own national teams coaching staff. But in all honesty it wasn't just Sir Elray today."

J - "True, we can't give him all the credit. Nope, this goes just as much to the credit of Titus H. Limpfield, PhD, our teams head coach. When Titus was confronted with the news that the games had been relocated due to storms he...well, he seemed to take that to mean that the end was nigh, and passed that information along to Sir Elray and the other members of the coaching staff. That created a rather interesting reaction that our camera crew was lucky enough to catch on tape. Lets give you all a look at that footage right now."

[Footage begins to role. At first it is focused on a series of drills being done by the players. It is all very routine stuff that was suppose to be used for a documentary being put together on the teams behavior during the World Cup. About a minute in a figure is seen running out of a team bus and moving quickly across the field, cane in hand. Once he is within earshot of the players he begins to yell and brandish his cane in the air. His words are not always understandable, but the general gist of his shouting is that the world is coming to an end. Unsure of what exactly he is saying, but gathering that their lives may be at an immediate risk, the athletes and support staff all make a line for the buses. At this point the footage becomes shaky as the camera crew is also running for shelter. Finally the camera is steadied and viewers are able to see the crowded inside of a bus, athletes and team members crammed in next to each other. After a few moments it becomes clear that the world is not ending, in fact the sky is rather clear. A few more moments pass before one of the bus drivers speaks up, asking just what the issue is. When Coach Limpfield says that he heard of a severe storm coming to "pass judgement on the heathens who occupy these lands", the driver begins to laugh, finally saying that the storms are predicted to his the coast of Texas, not the middle of Arizona. After a few more minutes of arguing the team leaves the bus, the coaches now reassured of their relative safety and the players embarrassed by the overreaction of their coaches.]

M - "Ignoring the general issue of Coach Limpfields inability to understand basic weather reports, I think his comments have stirred up a bit of controversy."

J - "Yea, it turns out that you shouldn't imply that your host country has brought divine retribution upon themselves, no matter how much you agree with their policies."

M - "And that is exactly what Limpfield did with his comment on the bus, then again in a press conference after the fact."

J - "Which may have been offset a bit by the fact that at the same conference Sir Elray showed up wearing a bright pink track suit and a cowboy hat."

M - "Hopefully they will all feel sorry for us. But the point is, the Chrinthani press hasn't taken too kindly to the issue."

J -"And interestingly enough the national federation has made no indication that they will replace Elray, nor have they made any apology on his behalf. I for one tend to think that they are waiting to see how things go at the next match."

M - "I agree. If we lose to Belgeland, then Elray is probably out. But if we don't then the Federation might make some general apology for his odd behavior, reprimand the lot of them, but keep them all on staff."

J - "Anyway, that concludes our little breaking news segment for you at this hour. In about half an hour turn in to watch live coverage of the U-11 Youth Cross Country District III Race."

[Chrinthanium]

Match Day 3 Results

Here are the results of todays games:
Winners in red

Menzighal 1 - 2 Areopagitican
Beddgelert 3 - 2 Nibelunc
Belgeland 4 - 1 Arabia
Gandvik 0 - 2 Chrinthania

Code: Select all

A Standings

   Team             P W D L For Ag +/- Pts
 1 Beddgelert        2 2 0 0  6  4  +2  6
 2 Nibelunc          2 1 0 1  4  4  +0  3
 3 Areopagitican     1 1 0 1  3  3  +0  3
 4 Menzhigalh        2 0 0 2  3  5  -2  0



B Standings

   Team           P W D L For Ag +/- Pts
 1 Chrinthania     2 2 0 0  5  1  +4  6
 2 Belgeland       2 1 0 1  4  3  +1  3
 3 Gandvik         2 1 0 1  2  3  -1  3
 4 Arabia          2 0 0 2  2  7  -5  0


[Chrinthanium]

CSPN World Cup Post Game Report

Live from San Diego, California, it's the 2011 World Cup Post Game with hosts Ben Gabriel and Jonah Whaler

BG: Hurricane Philippe, currently headed towards the Texas coast, forced the game to be moved to beautiful San Diego, where the Chrinthani National Team took on Gandvik.

JW: Still, we got the games in, and we hope and pray for our friends on the Texas coast that they do well tonight.

BG: We certainly do. Meanwhile, there was world cup action today. In San Diego, Chrinthania took on Gandvik in a battle of the winners today. Both having won on Tuesday, both looking to win today in order to improve their chances to advance into the Round of 8.

JW: Ben, we expected a good game.

BG: What we got was...... go to the tape!

[screen cuts to the match]

BG: Gandvik takes the ball down to the goal in minute 42, but Simpson blocks the shot by the Gandvian striker. He gets the ball out down to Archuleta who clears the danger.

JW: Chrinthania with the ball, we see no sense of urgency out of the team right here. They know they've got the time they need to get it done. Coach Lipton is highly confident in his teams playmaking ability and doesn't feel the need to make costly errors.

BG: But, we do have the ball. For this, let's take you to game audio....

[Announcer Steve Grainger begins to talk]

SG: Archuleta passes to Dane. Dane to Arrington. Arrington past midfield into Gandvik territory. Arrington to Swain.. [voice getting excited] Swain with no defenders in front. Swain to the goal...... BLOCKED! The shot blocked by the Ganvian..... wait, the ball bounced to...... GOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLL! Slater comes from out of nowhere..... GOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLL! Kory Slater with the Goal to give us a 1-0 lead!!

[Color commentator Nick Jenkins] Yeah, Steve. We see the pure speed of Slater as he comes from the bottom of your screen as the Gandvian keeper blocks the shot. That ball seemed to take a funny bounce out his hand and went back towards the field and Slater just times his pursuit perfectly and powers that ball in there.

[camera cuts back to the studio]

BG: Slater, what a monster on the field.

JW: Ben, he saw the deflection by the Gandvian goal keeper. The ball seemed to lose momentum as it rolled out of the box and Slater just finds the hole in the defense and sails that one past the Gandvian keeper.

BG: Coach Lipton takes his team into the locker room at the break with a smile on his face.

JW: This game is too important to lose, and we have a 1-0 lead at the break. I'd smile if I was him.

BG: [camera cuts back to match]: Play resumes after the rbreak and the coach seems to take a more defensive tone.

JW: Yeah, Ben, the Chrinthani formation seems to shift a little, giving the vibe of a 5-3-2 instead of a classic 4-4-2. Coach Lipton doesn't want Gandvik to score.

BG: A win today and the Union are set up great in the standings, a loss today and we'll need help.

JW: And you know Coach Lipton doesn't give up leads. As coach of FC Seattle, he only lost twice after having the lead at the start of the second period.

BG: And you know the Gandvian coach, after upsetting the Belgeland team on Tuesday is looking to make waves here. He comes out in a more attack-style of formation and tries to give his team a chance at a win. However......

JW: Minute 68. Archuleta takes the ball away from their forward and clears the ball back to the Union midfield.

BG: And that's when it happened. Minute 69, Dawson takes the ball down field, Swain and Slater covered up by the Gandvian defense. Dawson with a chance and did WHAT?

JW: Slips through the Gandvian defense and knocks a corner shot into the net. Dawson obviously excited, his 2nd international goal, first one of this World Cup. 2-0 Chrinthania. And despite Gandviks best attempts, that would be a final score.

BG: Chrinthania wins 2-0 over Gandvik, take control of group B and we have a date with the Belgeland team on Monday. A very important match for both teams.

JW: No kidding here. Belgeland taking care of Arabia today with an impressive performance wining 4-1.

BG: We take a look at the Group B Standings and see that Chrinthania is on top with 6 points. Belgeland and Gandvik ties in the points, but Belgeland with the better gial differential taking a tie-breaking lead to hold second place. And Arabia, poor Arabia, their World Cup hopes on life support right now.

JW: Well, we take a look and see that on Monday when group B plays again that Arabia has to hope they take out Gandvik in a big way and hope that the Chrinthania shut down the Belgeland offense, and burn the defense for a lot of points. Gandvik needing to win against Arabia to keep their hopes alive.

BG: Interesting set-up here. No team is mathematically out of advancing, and no team is mathematically guaranteed to advance after 2 matches.

JW: But, Chrinthania is in full control of their destiny. A win or a draw on Monday and they're guaranteed to win group B and advance into the Round of 8. Belgeland needs to win against Chrinthania. A draw may not get them in if Gandvik wins against Arabia.

BG: And if Arabia beats Gandvik, it doesn't matter what happens in the Chrinthania-Belgeland match because neither Arabia nor Gandvik will have enough points to advance.

BG: In group A Actions, Areopagitican takes out Menzigalh 2-1. But the biggest match in Group A?

JW: Beddgelert versus Nibelunc. An upset for the ages, Nibelunc falls to Beddgelert 3-2 and Beddgelert is undefeated in the Group stage.

BG: Similar set up in Group A as to Group B. No one out of it, no one guaranteed to win. Should be an interesting day on Monday when all of these if's become reality.

JW: Certainly, Ben. A very big day of Soccer on Monday for both groups.

BG: We'll take a break right now, but when we return, we'll talk to Dawson about his goal, and the thrill of the game.

[camera cuts to a commercial for a Celtic Singer CD Compilation.]

[Beddgelert]

Udgorn Rhyddid On-Line: Y Sbortóanghii Lead the Way!
Nibs Nobbled at Rosebowl

Even in the perhaps-unlikely event of the young warriors going all the way to the world cup final it is doubtful that they should face a tougher challenge than Friday's Californian clash with the other Dragons. Billed in Chrinthania as one of the most exciting prospects of the group stage, the game between Beddgelert and Nibelunc -not unlikely to decide who wins the group- certainly did not disappoint, pitting the supremely professional and highly fancied Nibelungs against a determined and physical Geletian side after both had struggled to secure narrow first match victories over less fancied opposition.

Apparently keen to capitalise on likely fleeting local interest in their team, country, and culture, the Beddgelen players (and Zippo) lead as many of their supporters as were capable in an English language rendition of, Rhyfelgyrch Gwŷr Harlech*, filling the Rosebowl with the Celtic state's rousing anthem. Invoking the forlorn defence of a Geletian fortress besieged by a vast Shieldian army during that empire's ascent, the unusually stirring delivery afforded to the battle hymn last night might have suggested that Y Sbortóanghii's aim was to go down swinging against a considerably superior opponent. Instead it seemed to unnerve the opposition with its bellowed remembrance of death and terror, and ninety minutes of intense competition later the fortress's defences were still manned, and the enemy, like frightened sheep, were driven far by Harlech men.

Beddgelert dominated the opening passage of play and scored first when notorious wanderer Tirenwog Bugail, in (supposedly at centre-back) for the suspended Aparatoi, angled a long ball through to Duwon Mapmaros, who snapped off a shot in defiance of a lunging challenge from young Michael Riebel and beat a stretching Heiner Alt to the top corner. The Celts continued to apply pressure throughout the first half as the Dragons seemed rattled, failing to find any fluidity in their attempted passing game, so it was something of a surprise when Beddgelert slipped up just before the interval, a misdirected back-pass from usually reliable Colof Apelian leaving Decidavarix stranded as Rahm latched on to the loose ball and all but passed it into an open goalmouth.

After the break Nibelunc came out with their concentration observably improved and set to out-manoeuvring Beddgelert in midfield. Decidavarix was forced into two good saves, and the Geletian woodwork was rattled by a Loverdos strike from the edge of the box as the Greek left a flat footed Bugail looking foolish, having offered no challenge to the twenty-one year old's sidestep. Niebelunc went ahead just short of the hour mark thanks to a half volley from Thomas Müller, which came at the end of an eight-pass build-up and left the young warriors obviously frustrated, a fact that told minutes later as both Golosgo and Omargastorix were yellow carded for late challenges. Golosgo's charge on young Müller also resulted in a dangerous Loverdos free-kick, only just kept out by Decidavarix, and the substitution of both the Beddgelen defender and the Nibelunc forward, the latter apparently having had the wind knocked out of him the collision, though Nibelunc medic Rolfes has since cleared the teenager of any lasting injury.

Y Sbortóanghii also brought off Apelian, sending in the more attack-minded Arthfael Y Falch along with defender Corann Ilar, and attempted to go back on the offensive. In their attempt to regain the momentum the Celts gave away possession numerous times through a combination of sloppy passing and erratic positioning that appeared devoid of any strategic vision, but a truly heroic performance from goalkeeper Decidavarix kept the deficit to a single goal as he racked up a total of seven saves during the match, and narrowly beat Mechtersheimer to a high cross in the dying minutes.

For all their rough-housing it would be the Geletians who benefited from a foul when Arthfael was tripped by Roth while chasing what was probably a lost cause near the corner flag. An Omargastorix cross from the resulting free kick found Buadaoine's head, which in turn found Demeter o Dŵrpoethon essentially unmarked within yards of the back post in a baffling defensive lapse that gifted the previously quiet striker an easy tap-in to level the scores with eleven minutes of normal time left on the clock.

As remonstrations began in the Nibelung back line, the Celts regained possession within seconds of the kick-off thanks to an energetic sliding interception by Apaelianos who then exchanged a quick one-two with Mapmaros to put Beddgelert just outside the Dragons' eighteen yard box. A chip into the area by Apaelianos set up a game of head tennis between himself, Buadoine, and the Nibelung defence before the big bald Geletian chested the ball down and hammered it into the defensive crowd, winning a kind deflection to beat Alt by a hair's breadth and seal a hard fought and sometimes scrappy upset victory for Beddgelert, who stay top of the group needing only a tie against Areopagitican to be assured of taking that top spot.

Beddgelert's offensive record, with six goals in two games, is the best in the world cup at this stage, while defensively Chrinthania are a similarly surprising stand-out in Group B, having conceded only a single goal in three hours of play so far.

”Actually, we take inspiration from the Igovian movement” -Buadaoine speaks on team's management void

Asked after the Nibelung game who, in the absence of a manager since the suspension of pyromaniac Glyn ApGrigor, decides on matters of squad selection, tactics, training,and off-field discipline, to-scoring Buadaoine engendered more controversy by invoking Communist ideals. "We all do.” he told the press pack. ”You can see it where I lived before I moved back to Cathrachbán to play football. I worked at the 1998 Prasutagos Reactor Site in Igovian-lead Cornitoutia for three years, and we only had that one containment incident. If a nuclear powerstation doesn't need a manager, why should a football team? Y Sbortóanghii is essentially its own Soviet, with twenty-odd members, and we make our decisions through it. It's taking some time to get the hang of making the right substitutions, but we're getting there... as I think today's victory shows."

*May have to check it's not muted, and refresh. Seems a bit tetchy, today