World Cup 70 - RP Thread

by **Semarland** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 12:13 pm

semarluundik indapadten

SEMARLAND 6-2 DEMOCRATIC STATES OF FENBAR

Semarland hurtled themselves up to third place with a more than impressive 6-2 victory over the Democratic States of Fenbar last night.

Against an unranked but rock bottom side, the Semars were merciless. Taking the lead on 21 minutes, from a Demba Cisse free kick, the possibilities of going higher in the table dawned on the team. The lead was doubled just before half-time, with Tipio Runen heading home on 42 minutes, thanks to an amazing cross in by captain Marc Lygaard. The Semarland side featured a few changes. The formation was switched to 4-4-2, for a start, with vice-captain Andreas Jansen returning. The 39 year old proved influential in the team, seeing as the last two games without him were lost 2-1 and won only 3-2. He was paired alongside Demba Cisse, with Lygaard & Jakob Larsen starting up front. Jansen and Larsen went quite close in the injury time in the first half, only being denied by the superb reflexes of the Fenbar goalkeeper.

Straight after the first half, Semarland got a third. Andreas Jansen himself, from the penalty spot. Mads Olsen was allegedly shoved down in the penalty box on 48 minutes. The referee pointed to the spot, and Jansen converted with ease. Marc Lygaard got in on the act on 61 minutes, tapping home after some great play by Demba Cisse. Yacouba Sakho was brought on for Demba Cisse, who appeared to have strained a calf unfortunately. Sakho almost scored as soon as he got on, volleying straight onto the bar, which was cleared snappily but clumsily away by a Fenbar defender, landing at the feet of Marc Lygaard, who, from 35 yards, sumptiously curled it into the far top corner, that goal coming on 72 mins. Three minutes later, Fenbar pulled it back, after some clumsy defending by Matthias Karbruck allowing their left-back to slot home. However, Semarland's next and final goal was to prove the pick of the bunch. Receiving the ball on the right, Marc Lygaard cut inside, went past five opposition players, before playing a smart 1-2 with Yacouba Sakho then chipping the ball over the goalkeeper, gaining his hat-trick, wheeling away in celebration on 85 minutes. In the 92nd minute, Fenbar pulled one back a consolation but that couldn't stop them from losing 6-2.

Semarland will next face their toughest match yet, away against The Sarian, group leaders.

SEMARLAND: Jorgen Karlstad; Matur Eiriksson, Jakob Lunds, Matthias Karbruck, Eirik Malsen; Mads Olsen, Demba Cisse (Yacouba Sakho 72), Andreas Jansen, Tipio Runen; Marc Lygaard, Jakob Larsen (Claes Naemstad 81)

by **Polaaskan** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 12:24 pm

polaanews
polaaskan destroyed by saintland

The Polaa national team were humiliated 6-1 by Saintland. The defeat sees them slip down from 2nd to 5th in the table, which could prove quite costly for the BoF runners-up.

Paulus Flaccus put Saintland 1-0 up on 7 minutes, with a well composed shot that no keeper could save. Flaccus assisted Herakles Karoki on 18 minutes, who doubled Saintland's lead. The dominating Saintland bombarded the Polaa goal with many shots, Stephanus Vagionius, Phillipus Vagionius and Ioannes Poenius all coming close. Just as the first half came to a close, on 42 minutes, Stephanus Vagionius headed home. It was proving to be a disaster for Polaaskan, with Johan Pekarik & Heiko Blonqvist coming on for Mikke Leonardsen and Patrik Ael as the next half started. Blonqvist was able to pull one back on 56 minutes, but three minutes later Prince Andreas got the Sanctii's 4th. Herakles Karoki got his second and Saintland's 5th, on 74 minutes, and finally on 77 minutes Petrus Barrius volleyed home. It was utter humiliation for Polaaskan, and they'll hope to do better next time, against Zenic, as next matchday is a bye.

by **The Inevitable Syndicate** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 12:58 pm

Sports :: World Cup 70 :: Qualifiers
Tags: Atlantian Oceania, Calanian Union, World Cup 70, Dawnhaven, Corvidae
Corvidae Chaos in Dawnhaven
Calanian Union Face Corvidae Mirror Team in World Cup Qualifying - Real Dawnhaven Team Found in Janitorial Cupboard

5th April 2193

by Harvey Harding

Undiclosed Location, DAWNHAVEN---- Chaos struck the Calanian Union's national football team last night, as they found themselves facing a different opponent to the ones they thought they would be facing. After a long, arduous journey to an undisclosed location in the nation of Dawnhaven, where they were to play their next football match in the World Cup 70 qualifiers, the team entered the seemingly empty pitch to find 11 men dressed in black football kits, with that all too familiar crow armband on their wrists. Instead of the 11 from Dawnhaven they were supposed to play, several Corvidae infiltrators had gained entry to the stadium via helicopter and had subdued the fans across the stadium and the Dawnhaven team themselves. After this, they laid in wait for the Calanian Union team to arrive, and ushered them into the stadium and onto the pitch, eventually holding the entire team at gunpoint before the match began.

Television crews were stationed around the stadium, but were unable to broadcast for the duration of the match. The hundreds of thousands that tuned into the match received a static image of the Corvidae symbol, and 2 hours of "Corvidae Triumphant" played on a loop. Any attempts to reach the television crews or journalists present at the event were unsuccessful, and later evidence was found that a signal blocker was placed and activated in the stadium prior to the start of the match.

Reports are coming in from many sources, but it is believed that the Corvidae 'mirror squad' consisted of nationals from ex-Corvidae nations such as the Former Inevitable Syndicate, Yttribia, and Felix. Eagle-eyed football fans at the event noticed a particular name from Yttribia, goalkeeper Oli Gross, who is cited to be unable to play for the Yttribian national team for political reasons. It is also believed that while the Calanian Union was able to play football to the best of their ability, the referee was deemed particularly unfair to the official side, and as a result the Union conceded four goals during the match, two of which were scored from penalties. the Union did, however, manage to get three goals past the mirror squad, but unfortunately this obviously wasn't enough to win the match.

After the match, the Corvidae Insurgents disappeared as quickly as they had arrived, and Dawnhaven police were finally able to respond. Why they didn't respond until after the match was over still remains unknown, but theories are surfacing that the Dawnhaven Chief of Police was paid off using Corvidae's still large ByteCoin fund, which Mertian authorities are still unable to gain access to. The Dawnhaven Police found the actual Dawnhaven team, unharmed, beneath the pitch in a janitorial cupboard. The team were reported to be tied up and gagged, unable to speak or shout for help.

The Union team were detained for 12 hours to give statements, and many football fans who were planning to stay for days boarded emergency planes set up by SyndAIRcate to get everyone affected by the attack back home safely.

World Cup officials from both San José Guayabal and Equestrian States were present, and forced to sign official documentation claiming the match was legitimate before they were released by the Corvidae insurgents. As a result, this match will not be replayed, therefore the Union will gain no points from the exchange. This pushes them further down the table to fourth place, a position that may be difficult to get out of in the remaining matchdays if other events like this continue to happen.

FMF boss Noel Palvini gave a statement on the incident this morning, and in it he claimed that "the safety of the team is paramount within the next few days", and that "the government is instituting protocols that will make sure that this won't happen again". When asked whether some of the remaining Syndicatians in the FMF could be revealed to be Corvidae supporters, Palvini called the reporter "a narrow-minded wretch" and that he "shouldn't be allowed to call himself a Calanian". It seems that Palvini feels strongly against the prejudice of those in the Former Inevitable Syndicate, but is also doing the best he can to support the national team during this stressful time.

The Calanian Union now have a week to recover from the incident, before they play Etelkoz, a nation that I frankly cannot find any information about...

In Other News...
> Nostromo Evacuation Enters Third Phase - Just 7,000 Remain
> Fresko Trust Announces Border Control Project
> Fligsive's Self Sustainability Plan Plauged With Delays

by **Kandorith** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 1:51 pm

Disaster Strikes Again

Kandorith 0–1 Chiata

   Group 6                         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Polar Islandstates                4    4   0   0    15    3  +12    12
 2 Chiata                            4    3   1   0     9    2   +7    10
 3 Kernansquillec                    3    2   1   0     7    3   +4     7
 4 Mangolana                         4    2   0   2    13   15   −2     6
 5 Kandorith                         4    1   1   2     9    7   +2     4
 6 Gregory Llama Land                3    1   0   2     3   12   −9     3
 7 Beauce                            3    1   0   2     3    4   −1     3
 8 Friday Freshman                   4    0   1   3     3   10   −7     1
 9 Absurdly Polite Gentlemen         3    0   0   3     5   11   −6     0

The future of the Kandorese football team has started to look more bleak after the recent home defeat. The team was unable to contain an overpowering Chiata side; fears the team might be falling apart during the qualifiers for the World Cup are becoming more apparent as Yúan fails to impress yet again. With the football association growing more and more impatient for good results, along with the fans who are tired of seeing their beloved team running behind the opposition.

As coach Yúan promised a new era for Kandorese football, he fails to impress for the second tournament in a row. People in general are feeling Yúan is wasting potential talent and goal scoring chances with his training setup and general formation even though the team has not changed all that much from previous World Cups; there seems to be a general negative attitude in the air surrounding the current Kandorese team.

The football association has put their final words on table; either Yúan's team starts performing to expectations, or Yúan will get sacked. If he does indeed get sacked, it would mean another drama for the Kandorese team during a major tournament or the run towards a major tournament. The question is now, does Kandorith have a back up coach and or do they have the motivation to get back on top of their game.

by **Jeruselem** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 3:27 pm

After Jeruselem wins 2-1 away in some place called Sakhalin ... Naked News Jeruselem's Kira Sallad and Jayden Bella getting ready for broadcast

Kira: Ready?
Jayden: Uh yeah, just have to wait for all these people go away
Kira: Not the biggest stadium I've seen
Jayden: I suppose they aren't used to hosting world cup games
Kira: I suppose
Jayden: Say, you're not a regular on Naked News

Kira: No, it's not my real day job
Jayden: what do you then?
Kira: I'm a adult movie star
Jayden: Oh yes, that's right
Kira: I call myself Kira Lee.
Jayden: So how did you get this gig

Kira: Dunno, Mum said I should go travel the world so this is it
Jayden: Yes, clever girl. Get someone else to pay for it
Kira: I couldn't afford to do all this travel by myself
Jayden: I suppose I'm in the same boat
Kira: Get to see all my fans in person
Jayden: Explains why you seem get more autographs than my team

Kira: Well, I'm also a Dallas too
Jayden: You lot are everywhere
Kira: Well, there's lots of us
Jayden: why didn't you take up football?
Kira: I get skin cancer easily
Jayden: More an indoors person then

Kira: Yes well, don't want to die because I got sunburnt
Jayden: Makes sense, lucky I don't have problem
Kira: Reckon it's dad's fault. Mum doesn't have those genes
Jayden: Say, you're a Dallas. what's up with Laurina?
Kira: She's got no self confidence. Dunno why. Us Dallas girls are pretty brazen lot
Jayden: Reckon she's play a lot better if she didn't underestimate her capabilties

Kira: She's young, she'll find out
Jayden: She doesn't have terribly great immune system either
Kira: Yes, she gets sick easily.
Jayden: I guess it'd be good to get that young Laura into the team next cup
Kira: Pity her Mum is stuck with Jeru FC
Jayden: Yes well, she got lumped with that lot

by **Hicana** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 3:40 pm

RepublicSoft worked exactly as promised - the final result showed a stunning out-of-the-blue victory for Antonio Sandoval, who secured fifty-two percent of the vote to Solomon Ervine's thirty-one and Samuel Antony's mere sixteen. The two liberals were horrified, the nation's moderates and conservatives shocked. Antonio quickly wrote a letter to Sister Maria Polus and Consul Reino Kulseth, declaring his fealty towards them - not much in this modern age, but still a considerably interesting action.

This was a pleasing development for the Christian Cause. Now there was only one thing to do...

For Christ's Sake, Get Out of My Government!!!

Newly-elected Superconservative Sandoval Fires his Entire Congress

In a stunning turn of events, newly-elected President Antonio Sandoval has declared the country "A Devout Autocracy" and changed the nation name to "The Holy Sovereign Republic of Hicaña", eliminating the previous representative democracy and outlawing all religions but Sanctii Catholicism.

As expected, this is widely looked upon as a bad idea...

Solomon Ervine read the newspaper and his heart sank. Quickly he pulled out his mobile phone and dialed Samuel Antony, his former opponent. Now, they were brothers-in-arms, ready to fight Antonio Sandoval. But they were not yet doing it together.

He punched in Antony's number at the Hicañan Isolationists (HIP) headquarters. No response. Sandoval had taken out the HIP phone lines.

Ervine swore, then tried a few personal numbers. No dice. Sandoval had taken out his methods of communication, quickly and effectively. Further investigation revealed a hacked mess of slashed phone cables and internet wires in the backyard, in addition to the notable absence of parts of his phone. Sandoval had been thorough.

But he doubted that he had been thorough enough. Ervine's sister had a flat, he knew, and maybe it would work. He got in the car, drove three feet, and realized that all four tires had been slashed and the windshield was missing.

Cussing seemed the only possible response.

After accidentally breaking the rest of his car for a few minutes trying to figure out what was wrong, Ervine's head cleared. The car was hopeless, but he had money. No doubt Sandoval had gotten into his bank account, but he had a wallet with about eight thousand dollars in small notes. Of course, Hicaña's economy was so shot that wouldn't get him very far, but his sister lived in the city. He could pay his way there. On the high note he walked to the subway.

Five hundred feet into the walk, he noticed somebody following him. A single man with black hood and clothing. While Ervine wouldn't know, this was the exact type of man who had killed Silvio Rivera.

Ervine quickened his pace - a mistake. The man simply followed, trailing closer and closer until Ervine broke into a run.

"I'm Adam Watson!" the man called out.

Ervine froze. "Take off your mask, then," he whispered.

"I can't. As soon as I do so Sandoval will know where I am."

"That's absurd. It's hardly as if there are cameras in the streets."

"You're right, but this close to your house we can't take chances."

"Come on, just one peek."

Watson resolutely refused. Ervine turned away, and then he was falling to the pavement, vision spotted, three teeth knocked out.

"Come."

Ervine followed.

Last.fm · by **Cosumar** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 3:45 pm

Ancharmunn forces Cosumar to tie with historic comeback from 4-0 down

BALLYFEEAKNOCK, ANCHARMUNN - A jaw-dropping second half turnaround from Ancharmunn denied Cosumar its second qualifying win as the teams played out a dramatic 4-4 draw in their first Group 15 clash.

Carrying on where they left off after MD3's 4-0 thrashing of Dracum, the Cosumarites put themselves firmly in the driving seat with an early brace from Sur Arora, who is having the tournament of his life thus far. Jon-Perohlin Nodtveit and Paaron Petrov added the third and four goal on opposite sides of the break. After Petrov's screamer put the visitors up 4-0 in the 50th minute, the Dragons seemed likely to glide to an easy victory.

The home crowd in Ancharmunn agreed, as the stands began to thin out after the fourth goal. Their team had showed no signs of life up to that point. It's hard to blame them for coming to the logical conclusion that the result was sealed. But the beauty of sport is that it often defies logic. Those who stayed were rewarded with an unexpected comeback of epic (or catastrophic, depending on whose side you're on) proportions.

The Charmunnry threw caution to wind and focused their efforts on testing the Cosumarite defense as much as possible. Despite dropping back into a conservative style of play, the Dragons crumbled at the brunt of the relentless Ancharmunn pressure. It was as if their hideously-clad opponents had suddenly been possessed by an angry football god. Goal after goal came, and the Kumquat Terrors gradually built up momentum to set up the thrilling equalizer in the last minute of stoppage time.

In the first half, it was one-way traffic towards the Charmunnry goal. Ace Newman could have given Cosumar a dream start in the very first minute when his powerful effort was blocked back to him, but his rebound was centimeters on the wrong side of the post. Cosumar did take the lead in the 6th minute, though, with Arora edging closer to Rikki Varshney's all-time goalscoring record (86) with his 84th goal for the Dragons. Mallox star Anders Engström, Cosumar's assist leader so far, set the OAS Royal striker up for a wicked shot from ten yards out that curled into the top-left corner. The same lethal combination led to Arora's 85th goal shortly thereafter, as Mallox's fleet-footed forward tore through the Ancharmunn armor, exchanging some nifty passes with Newman, before once again showing the vision to pick out Cosumar's number-one predator for a sliding goal from point-blank range.

The Dragons continued to dominate early proceedings with Engström slicing through the Ancharmunn defense like a knife through butter. He was nearly compensated with his first goal of Qualifying in the 35th minute, but his shot was saved by the fingertips of Ancharmunn's goalkeeper, and Petrov was unable to control the rebound, sending it well above the crossbar.

Two minutes later, Cosumar did go three in front when Nodtveit turned in Newman's header from close range after a Petrov free kick. It was the controversial defender's first career World Cup goal, which he celebrated with a steely grimace and middle finger to the Ancharmunn supporters. Fortunately, that little gesture escaped the notice of the referee, despite the outraged boos of the crowd.

Petrov converted on Cosumar's first real chance of the second period to give them a four-goal cushion. He dribbled the ball forward into a pocket of space in the middle of the field, feinted a pass, then pulled up for a long-rage try. The shot stayed on the ground, but it was a bullet and took the perfect angle, beating the goalkeeper to the right post. But rather than stamping and sealing the match, the goal sparked Ancharmunn into vigorous action. An Ancharmunn midfielder scored with a header from a beautiful cross in the 59th minute to unleash the comeback barrage. Three minutes later, the same midfielder sent a ball over center back Kirum Mortonsson for their striker, who slid the ball between Tomi Koskinen's legs and into the goal. The Dragons' lead was trimmed to 4-3 in the 75th minute when Mortonsson was caught unawares again, as an Ancharmunn midfielder waltzed by him and slotted in the easy goal. At this point, Farris Crowley opted to pull the struggling Mortonsson out of the game, subbing in Eastweald defender Abdiel Assad.

The veteran re-energized Cosumar's deflated back line, and the Ancharmunn threat receded. After a couple of close shaves at the other end for Cosumar, regulation gave way to stoppage time and Cosumar continued to dominate the ball. But it was Ancharmunn who delivered the final blow. With Nodtveit on the ground complaining to the ref, an Ancharmunn midfielder turned and shot through where Nodtveit should've been into the bottom-left corner from 10 yards out to complete the unlikeliest of draws. It was an inexcusable lapse for Nodtveit and goalkeeper Koskinen, who really should've saved the lackluster shot.

Cosumar
16 shots (10 on-target)
57% Possession, 73% pass accuracy
13 deliveries in penalty area
5 fouls, 3 yellow cards (Miyori, Engström, Merchison)
Ancharmunn
8 shots (4 on-target)
43% Possession, 59% pass accuracy
11 deliveries into penalty area
11 fouls, 1 yellow card
Cosumar - 4
6' (Arora)
15' (Arora)
37' (Nodtveit)
50' (Petrov)
Ancharmunn - 4
59'
62'
75'
90+5'

This draw is a big blow to a Dragons side that needs every point it can get to keep pace with Osarius (3-1-0) and Super-Llamaland (4-0-0). Dropping two points in what looked like - and should've been - a cupcake win is not something Crowley & Co. can afford to do again.

But it happened, and as a consequence Cosumar is 1-1-1 and in 4th place. The Dragons trail the aforementioned group leaders as well as The Greater Vakolicci Haven (2-1-1). After their big MD4 win, Zips Nation has the same record as Cosumar but trails on GD. HorusLand, the group's Pot 4 nation, was able to force a big draw with Osarius, which bumps them next in line into 6th. Peruvian Highlands follows in 7th, while winless teams Ancharmunn and Dracum bring up the rear. Ancharmunn's draw with Cosumar is their only point.

As the Cosumarite National Team prepares for its next match, a meeting with Peruvian Highlands in Ramusok, let's take a look at the positives and negatives of their campaign so far.

The Good. Sur Arora is in optimal form. I haven't seen him look this dangerous in years. Through three matches, he has already scored six goals - no other Cosumarite has more than one. Some of the credit for his success must go to the stellar play of Anders Engström on the left wing. Engström doesn't have any goals yet himself, but he leads the team in assists with four. In fact, both of Arora's goals against Ancharmunn were set up by Engström. They may play for rival clubs in the Harlighet Ligan, but they are a lethal duo when in the same shirt. Ace Newman has also done well on the other wing in his first World Cup. Cosumar is having no trouble scoring goals, netting 3, 4 and 4 in the matches so far. With this kind of efficiency in the attack, they'll be able to give anybody a fight.

The Bad. With the struggles Cosumar has had defending, anybody will be able to give us a good fight too. Central defense has been woeful in second halves. Figure 1, Ancharmunn. Kirum Mortonsson's reactions were consistently late and he just didn't look confident out there. He was beaten over the top twice, both times resulting in goals. It would be convenient to blame his performance on the minor knee tweak that took him out of the Dracum game, but he had some critical errors that allowed Super-Llamaland to come back too. Crowley benched him for Abdiel Assad late against Ancharmunn and that seemed to help, so look for Assad to get the start against Peruvian Highlands. The other starting center back, Nodtveit, hasn't been much better though. He has been very aggressive and made some great tackles in first halves, even scoring a goal against Ancharmunn, but has looked fatigued as the second phase wears on and was caught napping against Ancharmunn on the dramatic equalizer. Crowley better get into these guys' heads and wake them up ASAP. This is the World Cup! Qualifying has just begun and Cosumar has already allowed four goals on two separate occasions, with seven of the eight coming the second half. Central defense shooting itself in the foot with amateur blunders isn't helping the cause. Outside backs Lindroos and Miyori can do better too, they have been mediocre thus far by their standards. Cosumar is already eight points behind undefeated group leader Super-Llamaland. If the defending does not approve, especially late in games, the Dragons might just fall out of the race for the Top 2 before it has even begun.

Thank you for reading The Cosumarite Courier's exclusive World Cup 70 Coverage. Follow us on Twitter @TheCourier or subscribe to our website (TheCourier.cos) to receive daily updates and analysis of Cosumar's progress in the tournament.

Wally Vanderjagt
Staff Writer

Cosumar's World Cup 69 Journey
Pre-Qual Friendly: Star United States 0-0 Cosumar
Pre-Qual Friendly: Cosumar 2-1 San Jose Guayabal
Pre-Qual Friendly: Equestrian States 1-0 Cosumar
Matchday 1: Super-Llamaland 4-3 Cosumar
Matchday 2: Bye
Matchday 3: Cosumar 4-0 Dracum
Matchday 4: Ancharmunn 4-4 Cosumar
Matchday 5: Cosumar vs. Peruvian Highlands (@ Fire River Arena, Ramusok, Cosumar)
Matchday 6: HorusLand vs. Cosumar
Matchday 7: Cosumar vs. Zips Nation (@ Leviathan Arena, Kaldukosic, Cosumar)
Matchday 8: The Greater Vakolicci Haven vs. Cosumar
Matchday 9: Cosumar vs. Osarius (@ Leviathan Arena, Kaldukosic, Cosumar)
Mid-Qual Friendlies: TBD
Matchday 10: Cosumar vs. Super-Llamaland (@ Leviathan Arena, Kaldukosic, Cosumar)
Matchday 11: Bye
Matchday 12: Dracum vs. Cosumar
Matchday 13: Cosumar vs. Ancharmunn (@ Leviathan Arena, Kaldukosic, Cosumar)
Matchday 14: Peruvian Highlands vs. Cosumar
Matchday 15: Cosumar vs. HorusLand (@ Fire River Arena, Ramusok, Cosumar)
Matchday 16: Zips Nation vs. Cosumar
Matchday 17: Cosumar vs. The Greater Vakolicci Haven (@ Leviathan Arena, Kaldukosic, Cosumar)
Matchday 18: Osarius vs. Cosumar
Blue: Draw
Green: Victory
Red: Defeat

Cosumar Goal-Scorers Tally (11 GF)
Sur Arora (6)
Ace Newman (1)
Jukka Lindroos (1)
Kirum Mortonsson (1)
Jon-Perohlin Nodtveit (1)
Paaron Petrov (1)

Cosumar Assists Tally
Anders Engström (4)
Sur Arora (1)
Paaron Petrov (1)
Ace Newman (1)

by **Free Republics** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 4:18 pm

Somewhere in The Fair Republic

The Fair Republic Toucans had just scored 4 goals against Rule Theriault's Holy Republicans. While the 2 nations had come into the world of international soccer at the same time, the 52nd Baptism of Fire in Legalese and Kinitaria, they nonetheless had gone down completely different paths. While the Toucans were ranked 165th and had never seriously contended for a spot in the WC proper, the Holy Republicans were ranked 10th in the multiverse and were famous as the only nation, since the advent of Qualifying, to make it to the final match of the World Cup before they had actually managed to qualify for a World Cup on their own merit.

The Holy Republican performance in this match, even though it was held in the tiny Toucan stadium before mostly empty bleachers, was one of the worst defensive performances that Rule Theriault's team had ever put on. While the Holy Republican offense have saved them from the ignominy of defeat to a lightly regarded opponent by scoring 5 goals on the day, the story of the match was the complete meltdown of the Holy Republican defense.

The most notorious incident happened in the 82nd minute, with the Holy Republicans leading 4 goals to 2. As Kieth Clark charged right into Zrina Martinovic's territory, Joseph Poole yelled something out. The 2 of them had been going at it all match long, but things came to a head as Zrina quickly became convinced that Poole had screamed, "Don't fuck this up, you u**y bitch!" While Poole had actually been talking on his SaintPhone to a girl whom he had met at the hotel the night before and had actually said "Don't muck this up, you horny wretch," Zrina was furious. Ignoring her man, she charged at Poole and nailed him with a gridiron-style tackle. The 2 defenders were soon fighting on the ground, until referee Thomas Youngston of Felix came over with red cards for both of them, after Clark had beaten Christofferson for the third Toucan goal.

Play would resume, with the Republicans down to 1 defender. Theriault took this opportunity to remove Faredin Pozenel from the match and bring on Patrick Werfel, as his squad switched on the fly to a 2-1-2-1-2 formation. Theriault wasn't happy, but decided to wait until after the match ended and the Holy Republican cameras were turned off before getting payback on the referee. Moments later, a Kieran Hancock mistake gave Dean Buaer of the Toucans an equalizer. It looked like this match would result in a draw.

But, the Holy Republicans soon moved onto the offensive and soon they had Toucan keeper Tom Jones under seige. Jones had already conceded 4 goals by this point, but he was doing everything he could not to concede a fifth. After several corners resulted in shots that were sent out for more corners, Koby Theodore delivered a corner directly to the head of Kyle Bolton. However, Bolton was flagrantly fouled in the air by a Toucan defender. The Felixian referee saw it happen and, hating the Holy Republicans like any other good Felixian, refused to call for a penalty!

At this point, Theriault's security detail became absolutely enraged, as did Theriault himself. The Holy Republican coach egged them on as several of them charged toward the official. By this point, the match was already well into added time and the Toucans were preparing for a goal kick. Jones kicked it away and Youngston seemingly wanted to blow his whistle to end the match. However, the Holy Republican security detail proved to be very persuasive in convincing the Felixian official to hold off on blowing the whistle for the end of the match.

The goal kick was headed forward by the substitute Werfel. It landed at the feet of Bernard Lukic, who pushed forward. Lukic delivered a cross in the direction of a blatantly offside Koby Theodore and the Scourge of Felix promptly delivered a quick one-time shot into the back of the net. At gunpoint, the official declared the goal valid, giving the Holy Republicans a 5 to 4 edge in the match, and blew his whistle. Rule Theriault's side had escaped The Fair Republic with a controversial 5 goals to 4 victory. A match against the Equestrian States at the Wild Grounds in the city of Everfree awaited them, but Theriault was more concerned with the meltdown of his backfield...

by **United States of Devonta** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 4:51 pm

United States Of Devonta wrote:Redemption well do!
^{Solid game with few mistakes}

United States of Devonta 3-2 Schutzenphalia & West Ruhntuhnkuhnland

United States of Devonta (4-4-2 Diamond): Cooper, Brooks, Benton, Kindred, Liam, Russell, Abdullah, Edwards, Owens, Johansen, Adams

Quick Stats:
53% Possessions, 11 Shots, 9 on goal
47% Possessions, 8 Shots, 4 on goal

Scores: Abdullah (23'), Adams (45+2), Owens (82')

CAUTIONED: Owens (25'), Russell (76')
EJECTED: --NONE--

Table:
  Group 19                                Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
1 The Holy Empire                           3    3   0   0     7    3   +4     9
2 The Royal Barangay                        3    2   0   1     7    6   +1     6
3 United States of Devonta                  3    2   0   1     5    4   +1     6
4 Boring Paradise                           3    2   0   1     6    6    0     6
5 New North Aqmuland                        2    1   1   0     4    3   +1     4
6 Sarrbia                                   3    0   2   1     1    2   −1     2
7 Dainer                                    3    0   1   2     2    4   −2     1
8 Jecatria                                  2    0   0   2     6    8   −2     0
9 Schutzenphalia & West Ruhntuhnkuhnland    2    0   0   2     5    7   −2     0
Kid Legend: The Beginning of Coach Christopher Mendez
There once was a boy named Christopher Mendez or Chris to friends and family, who lived in the small hot New Julia town of Santos. A town founded in 1863 by Hispanic immigrants that migrated to the south of the United States of Devonta in great numbers. The townspeople where still majority Hispanic, with allot of people being descended from the original settlers of the town. There where towns just like it all around New Julia, giving the state the biggest Hispanic population of any state, with Hispanics in higher numbers then blacks and whites in some parts.

Chris was forced to play soccer by his father who was forced by his dad. Luckily Chris loved soccer unlike some of the other boys forced to play by there fathers. Chris played to impress his father and mother, although she was proud of him win or lose, like most mothers. It had been five years since he played his first soccer game, Chris was 12 years old know, approaching teenhood and he'd just started puberty and his team had made it to the youth league finals for the third time, in a draw between his team, the Santos Chihuahuas, and the big town team Santa Julia Bengals.

Chris liked to play in the right midfield in the thick of action, and today he was determined to win the youth league final. Throughout the season his team played against the Santa Julia Bengals twice, and his team had never beaten them. Loosing 2-1 in there first game and 1-0 in there second. It was a youth league rivalry and the Bengals where winning, but the finals was all that matters now. Chris and his team where determined to win, but the Bengals where too.

Some players on the team had sprayed their hair blue and brown to represent there team colors and spirit. One of his teammates', Josh Peterson's parents had made a banner with the teams mascot Riley the Chihuahua and the teams color on it, so they could run through it when the team ran out onto the sunny field. Everyone's eyes where on the boys as they ran out to face the Bengals who where already on the field. Chris looked up in the stands for his mom and dad. When he seen them they waved but his dad kept a stern look on his face, Chris knew he needed to win this game.

Chris's team won the coin toss and chose to have the ball first, with the wind to there back giving them a slight advantage. The game started with a whistle from the referee. The game was slow at first with both teams going at it, back and forth. Luckily Chris's team scored in the second half with Chris managing to break through the Bengals midfielders before skillfully passing it to one of the forwards passed most of the defense. The forward kicked the ball in, making the game 1-0 in the favor of Chris's team. The Bengals where fast to reply with a goal hit in close range with a knee after two failed attempts. The game was know tied 1-1. Just like the beginning of the match the game was in a bitter stalemate with most of the action happening on the midfield with Chris in the thick of it. The defenses of both teams being an effective stop to the offense on the teams. It ended when Chris drove up into the Bengals defense and managed to shoot a curved long shot into the goal, followed by a roar from the crowd. The game was now 2-1 and it would stay that way ending in a victory for the Chihuahuas.

After the match there was a reward ceremony held by the Youth Soccer Association and the players in each team got an oval shaped gold medal. Chris's team also received a plaque and trophy in honor of there victory. Everyones eyes where on the young Chris Mendez, the young man who won the game for his team, but none of the men and women watching knew Chris would become a legend in Devontan soccer, scoring over 602 goals in 682 appearances, winning Danza F.C six titles, its first at age fifteen. Upon retirement becoming the newly formed national teams coach. Chris is a legend.
----Match Summary----

A young, skilled Devontan national team fought to a close 3-2 victory on Saturday over Schutzenphalia & West Ruhntuhnkuhnland on in their first game since there hard fought 1-2 loss with Boring Paradise. The victory against Schutzenphalia & West Ruhntuhnkuhnland revamped the teams moral, preparing the team face the #4 ranked Holy Empire.

With head coach Christopher Tajo Mendez stating before the game that the aim for the team was to win, The Devontans with Johansen's fast passed tempo and effective skills controlled all of the game but there where signs of weakness in the defense during the 2nd half. The Scutz pressed a bit in the second half finding opportunities and they capitalized on there opportunities though still loosing the game. The Devontan team by critics where guessed likely to be eliminated in group 19, placing seventh or sixth but they currently hailed on to fifth.

Only two penalties where called the whole game. They where called on Devontan players Owens on the 25' mark and Russell on the 76th minute. The game was in favor of the Devontans for most of the first half, with the versatile Abdullah scoring in the 23rd minute mark, wooing the crowd with . Embarrassing the Kingston defense. The Devontans then scored another goal after a few missed shots or saved shots from mostly the midfield players a longshot, A close in five meter shot by young forward Adams in the 45+2 minute just made victory seem more real. The Scutz team managed to get a few good shots in during the second half but many where saved by the effective goal keeper Cooper, after a few mistakes in the defense the Scutz team manged to tie the game 2-2 with two close range shots. Never the less the Devontan national team ended with a victory when midfielder Owens launched a long shot into the Schutz goal during the 82nd minute.

by **Carialus** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 4:54 pm

Carialus Bugle
The Comrades are Beaten Badly by the Bears Armed Bear-Belles

In their most recent match, the Comrades traveled to Wimbley Stadium, Bears Armed. This would be an entirely new experience for the Comrades as they had never played nonhumans before. Right away, the Carialites were unnerved by the Bear-Belles' pregame ritual: the Harrdiharr. Like when facing Timbermunich, the players for Carialus were much smaller than their opposition. Carialus was given the kickoff. Immediately, drums and horns banged in the crowd, further intimidating the Comrades who seemed to shrink smaller and smaller compared to the Ursine in front of them. Nevertheless, Carialus kicked off and the game was on. Frost, receiver of the kick backpedaled when confronted with SunDaughter. Frost passed the ball back to Cerny, glad to be out of that situation. Cerny was then hard pressed when both Arrogh and WestWalker strode in on his front and flank. Cerny, under pressure and no window to get through the opposition, passed the ball to Brissa. Now, all of Bears Armed's attackers were on the Carialite's side of the pitch and Brissa decided it best to clear the ball to the Bear-Belles' side. That was the Comrades' first possession...

The Carialus attack move forward but SunBlessed poked right through the cowering Carialites. SunBlessed continued, unopposed as none of the Comrades new how, or even wanted to attempt, disarming SunBlessed of the ball. 15 meters from the goal, she unleashed a mighty shot that went straight through Boulos' hands. Five minutes in and Carialus was losing. Carialus kicked off again but Frost slipped when he tried to get in the clear, turning over the ball to WestWalker. Mush like SunBlessed, WestWalker rumbled through Carialus' defense. This time, Brauer made a challenge and WestWalker passed the ball back to Hara. Hara unleashed the shot from the edge of the box but it was handily punched away by Boulos. However, B. Barrdenn slipped through the defense and tipped the ball into the net. 2-0.

Backed up by Brauer, Carialus began to actually play some football. The offense got a thing going and got two shots on goal in a row, both of which were saved by C. Barrdenn. The game went on with both heavily attacking sides now struggling to score. In the thirty-first minute, WestWalker overextended herself and ended up pulling a muscle, a rarity for Bears Armed players. WestWalker walked off the field unattended and likely just needed a few minutes to walk it off. In the '35, Brissa was pulled in favor of Dedeck. Likewise, the Bear-Belles took off SunBlessed and put in Westfells. Nothing seemed to be happening, both sides gained no momentum. Dumont twisted and ankle and Redwood was given a Yellow Card, but on unrelated plays. The half ended with nothing else happening.

Carialus came out with the same players on the pitch at the end of the half while Ug-Ug had decided on sending in Garroon for Ozt'suhl. Once again, Carialus failed to get anything started and all their plays were broken up. Another Yellow was given to the Bear-Belles, this time Natharah was the offender. The card did little to sway the game and The Bear-Belles kept on dominating the possession game. They now seemed content to wait till the end of the game, achieving an overwhelming 2-0 victory if all went well. Schlastuer tried shaking things up by making a substitution in the 65th and then in the 77th taking Kraus and L'Hiver off the pitch. Just after the latter substitution, Bears Armed struck again and further solidified their victory.

Bears Armed 3 - 0 Carialus
'0 Kick Off
GOAL(SunBlessed) '5
GOAL(B. Barrdenn) '11
INJ(WestWalker) '31
'35 SUB(Dedeck on, Brissa off)
SUB(Westfells on, SunBlessed off) '36
'38 INJ(Dumont)
YELLOW(Redwood) '41
Kick Off '45
SUB(Ozt'suhl off, Garroon on) '45
YELLOW(Natharah) '54
'65 SUB(Kraus off, Chlum on)
'77 SUB(L'Hiver off, Jiranack on)
GOAL(SunDaughter) '78
'90 FINAL

Group 3 Matchday 4:
Bears Armed 3–0 Carialus
Joshulia 0–1 Timbermunich
Robsonien 1–2 Star United States
Valanora 3–2 The Fallenmark Islands

Group 3                         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Bears Armed                       4    3   1   0     9    3   +6    10
 2 Star United States                4    3   0   1    14    6   +8     9
 3 Valanora                          3    3   0   0     9    3   +6     9
 4 Timbermunich                      4    2   1   1     5    3   +2     7
 5 The Fallenmark Islands            4    2   0   2     5    4   +1     6
 6 Carialus                          3    2   0   1     4    3   +1     6
 7 Robsonien                         3    0   0   3     1    5   −4     0
 8 Joshulia                          4    0   0   4     2   11   −9     0
 9 Kingston-Atlantis                 3    0   0   3     0   11  −11     0

by **Blouman Empire** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 5:00 pm

THE EMPIRE TIMES

Eagles Suffer First Defeat

The Blouman Empire were beaten 1-0 last night by Queer Poco after having to play more than half the match with only 10 men. A third minute goal gave Queer Poco the lead as the continued their unbeaten run during the qualifiers.

While the Eagles had shown strong defensive play in their earlier games they appeared sluggish at the start and failed to clear their area. The Queer striker found himself on the edge of the box and had time to steady himself taking aim and shot the ball across the face of goal into the far corner. The Queer Poco side was not going to sit on their laurels and continued to push forward. Havign scored again their striker went again but dragged his shot wide. He almost had another chance but decided to send his team mate passing in the patch of the oncoming midfielder. While he had a shot it was too close to Milton Tuneson who plucked it out of the air. The Queer winger sidestepped Jakob Kleeza and made a run on goal but his shot was blocked by Hamish Alpin. The Eagles started to cause concern in front of the Queer goal with Blaine Cooperson trying his luck but the fingertips of the Queer keeper pushed it around the bar. Cooperson had another go only a few minutes later but his effort saw the ball fly over the crossbar and into the crowd.

The Eagles difficult task became nearly impossible in the 35th minute when Percy Baser was dismissed. Having lost the ball to the Queer midfielder he lashed out at his legs taking down the player, the referee wasted no time in fishing for his red card. Howls of disgust rang across the stadium from the Queer fans as Baser walked to the changerooms. The Queer side failed to capatalise from the free kick while the strikers head found the ball it was misdirected past the post. The first half ended with the home side a goal and a man up.

Towards the start of the second half Cooperson attempted to settle the difference, receiving a through ball from Kane Ancap he made a run on goal only to be brought back after he was deemed to be offside. Logan October was going on attack with his 10 men by leaving his three forwards up front and keeping only Steven Mallard and Dylan Hall to control the midfield. With this tactic the home side were inevitably enjoying the lion’s share of possession as they looked to make their extra man count. The Queer striker continued to look for his second but his shot from 10 yards out went high over the crossbar. His strike towards goal appeared to be in after it went through Tuneson’s hands but Kleeza standing on the near post cleared the ball off the line. The Blouman defence continued to remain under pressure as Queer Poco looked to put the game beyond reach. Alpin blocked another sure shot and moments later put in a crunching tackle to stop another Queer attack. Tuneson’s quick reflexes came into play as he held onto the ball after a solid strike by the Queer winger and then managed to tip the ball over the crossbar after a chip from the Queer striker. Despite the Eagles battling on they were unable to find enough chances on goal and claw back the early goal, despite Queer Poco controlling the game and having plenty of chances in front of goal a determined Blouman defence prevented them from scoring any more. The match ended 1-0.

The defeat is the first for the Blouman Empire and puts a dent in their qualification campaign, meanwhile Queer Poco continued their winning streak giving them four wins from four games and placing them second on the table behind Quakmybush. Quakmybush will be the Eagle’s next opponent and will be looking to maintain their position at the top of the table, while the Eagles will be needing to win to remain in reach of the coveted spot. October spoke forcefully about his side’s next match “It’s a game we must win, we will move on and correct where we went wrong and come back better than before”. October would not give anything away regarding Baser’s replacement as he serves his one match suspension, however, pundits are expecting Edward Hills to make his international debut.

by **Kernansquillec** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 5:06 pm

TWO WINS ON THE BOUNCE AS PSI TIE LOOMS

Lilac hurt as rampant Kers sweep aside APG
Kernansquillec's second tie of qualifying saw them face off with Absurdly Polite Gentlemen. Despite their name, APG were a very physical side and picked up four booking in the game which saw star forward Adam Lilac limp off after 52 minutes. The Guingamp player had already scored one and set up another before a late tackle caught him. While very little information has been leaked from the KERFA, it's understood that he had a ruptured ligament and is expected to miss at least the next five matchs. It's a major set-back for the Green and Whites with reserve striker Barbara Keys untested on the international stage. But she has been performing well with Rennes, leading them to glory in both the league and cup. Hopefully she'll be able to make the step up.

The match itself was a fairly simple affair. Lilac had opened the scoring with a quick brake just 4 minutes into the match. He then set up Marie Iris who curled home a second. APG got one back from the spot just before half-time, after a clumsy challenge from right back Julian Yegos, to give themselves some hope. But Kernansquillec carried on as usual after the break, controlling affairs and putting home a third soon after the restart, Candi Winter getting forward to open her account with the national side. The injury to Lilac was a shock to the team and a somber mood feel over the Green half of the field, but there was still time for a forth goal to be scored with Noupen taking advantage of some slack defending to slot home from eight yards out after a defensive mix up.

APG 1-4 KERS
Bob 44' // Lilac 4' Iris 18' Winter 51' Noupen 83'

Mangolana edged in thriller
Last night Kernansquillec faced a much tougher encounter as Mangolana payed a visit to the Goose Coast. The game turned out to be very tight with both sides exchanging a number of goals. The Kers started stronger but Mangolana opened the scoring when Bob found space on the edge of the penalty area before rifling the ball into the top right-hand corner past a helpless Ellysa. But the Green and Whites came back just as strong and piled the pressure on the Mangos. On the half-hour mark Jean Dubois got the goal they deserved, finding room in the box to head home Noupen's corner. The game evened out after that but no further goals arrived before the break.

As the second half began Mangolana took advantage of a slow-to-start Kernansquillec side and a simple through ball from Bob found Bob who had made a a diagonal to beat the offside trap. Bob had no problem to slot home past Ellysa to give Mangolana the lead for the second time during the match. The goal (and some very harsh words from the touchline) kicked the Kers back up to their usual level of performance and they started to put more and more pressure on Mangolana who were trying to hold on for an unlikely win. Barbara Keys, who was replacing the injured Lilac, had had a quiet game up until the 61st minute when a fabulous run saw her beat two defenders before firing a shot into the back of the net via the upright. It was quite a way to score her first ever international goal and it pushed Kernansquillec onto winning a game they maybe didn't deserve to win, such was the quality of their defending. Keys gained confidence from her first goal, as did her teammates, and the final blow came during the 74th minute. Keys once again was at the right place at the right time as she headed home from close range after Bob could only parry Poutre's shot. It was far from Kernansquillec's best result, but it is another three points and it shows that this side isn't one that just rolls over when things aren't going well. It'll be a quality they'll need if they are to qualify this year.

KERS 3-2 MANGO
Dubois 30' Keys 61' 75' // Bob 17' Bob 47'

Can we keep it under 5?
A trip away to the mighty Polar Islandstates is next up. The northern Rushmori nation need no introduction. They are one of the big sporting powers in the World today, especially in Rushmore and especially when it comes to football. And Kernansquillec are being sent to their own back yard to try and perform the impossible miracle: get back south with a point, a goal, some pride, under ten goals? To get something, no matter how small the something, is all that can be hoped for. Keeping the scoreline under five seems a reasonable goal if PSI are a bit under the weather and the Kers fight like lions from start to finish. A win is mad-man's talk. But if ever it was to occur this Green and White team would be come legends for generations to come.

An unchanged side from the Mangolana game is expected, with Barbara Keys keeping her spot since Lilac is still injured. A fairly sizely contingent of Kernansquillecan supporters are expected to make the relatively short trip to PSI for the game. What ever the result, Kernansquillec won't get many better chances to show just what they can do against the World's best. And it certainly wouldn't be the first time they did what seemed impossible and pulled off an upset.

by **Wolfbenz** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 6:00 pm

"God damn it!" Mr. Konstantinov exclaimed, hanging his head back in his chair when the whistle for full time blew, signaling the end of a very close match. The final score showing on the tv: Valladares 3, Wolfbenz 2.

"We were so close! We could have been giant killers if Vladdy Gusev hadn't missed that shot!"

"Technically, we would've tied with them and not won..." Meino interjected.

"Look on the bright side dad, we could have lost 12-0 to these guys," Granit added, "They're ranked sixth out of about 300, and we're ranked at about 250. If anything, the odds pointed to us losing."

"I guess you're right," Mr. Konstantinov replied. "If only we played like that against those other teams, then we'd be in a qualifying position.

Mrs. Konstantinov nodded. "Well, I think it's time for us to go to bed. Fillip needs to keep his heart rate down. You boys go and do something."

Mr. Konstantinov got up from his seat, and joined his wife to walk to their room.

"Meino, I've got some business to take care of," Granit whispered to Meino, obviously hiding something from his parents. "Come on. Oh yeah, and bring your gun."

Meino suddenly became nervous. "What the hell are we doing?"

"I'll tell you on the way. Let's go."

When Meino and Granit got onto the highway, there was a bit of a nervous silence.

"Alright Granit, what the hell are we doing? I don't want you to get killed by some random mobster."

"Relax Meino," Granit replied, looking nervous himself. "I agreed to transfer some drugs from here to Kvistgaard-"

"Kvistgaard? That place is 6 hours away from here! What are your parents going to say about this!?"

"Meino, we're going to get rich. Those guys agreed to pay up about 45,000 Viostocks. Each."

"Sounds a bit too good to be true. Regardless, it's drug trafficking and is going to get us in prison for awhile. Besides, the prisons here in Niam are some of the worst ones in the country."

"But think of the reward, Meino! You've done stuff like this, right?"

"No. And you need to think of the consequences. What if you loose the drugs? What if some meth-head breaks into the car to steal it?

"It'll be worth it in the end," He said, taking an exit off the highway.

Meino kept arguing with him, but eventually knew it was futile to keep going on. He couldn't leave Granit to take the shipment himself, as Meino assumed that would be the death of him.

"Fine." He finally said. "But if we get caught, I'm ditching you."

"Alright then. Now, are you ready to get rich?"

Meino rolled his eyes, "Still as naive as ever, Granit. You haven't learned a thing."

The car drove into an ally, where a lone man stood, wearing a trenchcoat and a fedora.

"Let's go Meino."

The two stepped out of the car slowly.

The man walked up to the two. "Are you the one who they call Granit?" he inquired, pointing his long, bony finger at Granit. His voice was deep and his face was hidden by the shadow of his hat.

"Yes, sir." Granit pointed to Meino. "And this is Meino Sachs, an affiliate of mine. He will be accompanying me, as you might have heard."

"Fine then. There are two briefcases of the stuff back there. Take them to Kvistgaard as fast as possible. No deviations. Got it?"

"Yes sir. We'll leave straight away tommorow." replied Granit.

To Meino, it was strange hearing him saying the words, "Yes" and "Sir" together.

"This guy must be one of the higher ups around here. We better watch our steps."

Granit and Meino took both of the briefcases and put them in the trunk of the car. They both then got in the car, Granit driving out of the ally and heading back on to the highway.

"You wanna know something Granit?" Meino spoke, trying to start a conversation.

"What?"

"One of us is probably going to have to go into hiding for twenty years in some village over the border. And it's not going to be me."

by **Zenic** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 6:16 pm

“So, here it is: the first of our two matches against the Sanctii. This should be interesting,” Golovkin quipped, sipping his beer while reading the Leinz Herald.

Golovkin had spent most of the day in M.o.S. Zimmel’s office. The two had chatted on everything from women to politics and, of course, sports. Dmitri was there helping Zimmel with the preparations for the game tomorrow against Saintland.

Golovkin had once been the club president of a now defunct amateur team and learned the ropes of organization firsthand and, at times, brutally. The two working on making sure everything was in order meant an easier workload for both and sometime to drink and have fun.

“Indeed. You two had an impressive match back in the Copa Rushmori, going all the way to penalties in the semifinals. Maybe this time Sanders can lead the team to a victory. Imagine the momentum and energy that win would bring,” Zimmel said, sighing out of exhaustion and finishing up the work. Even though Golovkin’s help was fantastic, the smaller workload was still rather large explaining why they had been in Zimmel’s office most of the day.

“Huh, you believe we can win against teams like that now? I think we can win eventually but now seems to be forcing that issue, is it not?” Golovkin had faith in the team, no doubts there, but he was also realistic and believed they would need a year or two more before they could start to be on the level of teams like Saintland, Rüntenbach and more. “Who really knows, Dmitri but we still have to believe in them. When a team knows that the fans believe in them, amazing things can happen: we’ve experienced it ourselves on several occasions and I don’t think those will be the last times we see such magic come from something as simple as believing,” responded Zimmel.

Golovkin simply smiled. After all, Mr. Hans Zimmel III was right: the team could do amazing things if they, and the fans, believed so. He had to give credit where credit was due.

And he hoped, no, believed his team could deliver a beatdown to whom a beatdown was due: Saintland.

by **Gloriax** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 6:20 pm

The Reaction

At the President’s Office, Gloriax

Just as Mr. President received the letter, it ignited a fire of rage in him. This, required treatment. The so called ‘Lord’ Greg had one too far, this time.

Mason rang the bell that lay in front of him, on his desk… “Get Keane here right now!” he shouted out orders to his attendants. His heart was beating fast - because firstly, the blitzkrieg is now increased, and secondly, an assassin squad is coming to assassinate him.

No sooner did a confused Keane arrived at the President’s office, Mr. President got up from his seat, and started pacing around his table in circles. Stopping suddenly, Mason looked right into Keane’s eyes, and said, “I want you to listen to me now, Keane. Do the things I say now. 1) Get the aerial units (fighters, bombers and whatnot) ready for a face-to-face battle with the blitzkrieg jets. Let the anti-aircraft missiles remain as they are, and let them continue their work. 2) Get me the President’s Guard and 1 battalion of security forces at my disposal. I have life threats, here. 3) Lastly, deploy 190,000 RAF (Reserved Armed Forces) in District 26 to regain control over the whole area. Then we’ll see how much the Gregoryisgodistan dictator can reject our demands…”

Somehow, Keane has this uncanny ability to forecast Mr. President’s doings. He couldn’t explain it himself when asked about it in the media, stating that he follows only what his sixth sense tells him to do. Nothing fancy about that…

At Trexocia Airbase, Gloriax
Briefing of Gloriaxian fighter pilots

“Gentlemen… The war is at a critical stage of development, and we have a defensive task to do. As we all know, the Gregoryisgodistanis have launched an all-out blitzkrieg attack on our nation, and just the anti-aircraft missiles are not enough to keep up. This is exactly where our role comes in.” the Squadron Leader said, as the pilots listened to his briefing with rapt attention.

“Your jobs, gentlemen, is to counter, and eliminate any effort from the Gregoryisgodistani side to deploy blitzkrieg troops. Their carrier and/or fighter jets are to be shot down before the deployment of the blitzkrieg. Now, it is up to you, gentlemen, to keep the pride of the nation, and show the world, that Gloriax will fight until the last of its proud citizens will die.”

The speech was a superb motivator for the pilots. They were now full of self-confidence. Chests high, they went into their jet cockpits, and as the flags were waved, took to the sky – saying that one last prayer to God. “Let me kill as many Gregoryisgodistani rogues as possible, before I’m shot down, and I fall”.

But, even here, there was a problem. Just as few jets left, Gregoryisgodistani jets took the anti-aircraft missile handlers by surprise, and lay siege on the Airbase. Pilots, technicians and many others were killed, before the jets on air and anti-aircraft missiles took control of the situation and eliminated the jets.

But, the actual trick, however, was discovered later. The siege was a suicide mission – just to divert the anti-aircraft missiles’ attention from the blitzkrieg towards the airbase. Till then, the damage was already done…

District 26, Gregoryisgodistan

The border wall was already destroyed. The cities – were as good as non-existent. It was in this situation, that the Gloriax RAF entered District 26 – an area which they have suddenly got to know a lot better. It was more of a desert, now – a nuclear wasteland. The soldiers could almost feel the innocent cries of civilians and soldiers alike, adding up to a sum of about 3 million in cold-blood. Is this the very person they call ‘God’? Does God destroy his creation himself?

Just as their thoughts were getting clouded by that of their fellow comrades at the 36th GA regiment, the RAF had to encounter those odd soldiers or two, who had been re-deployed in the area by the Gregoryisgodistani government. They were evidently not enough to stop the brute force of 190,000 gunmen.

As soldiers were given orders to stay at the 19 different former towns, there was a band of 10,000 each in each town. District 26 was back in Gloriaxian control.

by **Saintland** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 6:21 pm

Royal Palace, St. Petrus, Saintland

With the King away, training for the Winter Olympics, Patriarch Nicolaus V decided to pay a visit to the Royal Palace to speak, in secret, with the Queen and Prince Ioannes. Everything was going exactly how the Patriarch had drawn it up. The latest nation to fall under the rule of a government aligned with the True Church was Hicana. While Hicana was mainly famous for being forced to evacuate their entire nation to escape the Gregoryisgodistanis, they were still an asset to the cause. Every single nation that aligned themselves with the Will of God only increased their momentum. Now, it was time to bring about more revolutions, within the form if possible, by force if necessary. As the Patriarch reached the entrance to the Palace, a castle that dated to the 13th century, Prince Ioannes was there to meet him:

Prince Ioannes - Good to see you, your Holiness.

Patriarch Nicolaus V - Hicana's with us now.

Prince Ioannes - Good. The plan's working, just as we drew it up.

Patriarch Nicolaus V - Yes, it is.

As they were talking, they were walking through the long hallway of the castle...

Prince Ioannes - Everything's going right for us right now.

Patriarch Nicolaus V - I saw that. Your younger brother has been dominant on the soccer pitch this time.

Prince Ioannes - He has, in part because of Petrus's ultimatum, but also partially because he's playing for Josephus's memory.

Patriarch Nicolaus V - What happened to Josephus was an atrocity. I can only hope that God will one day pass His Judgment upon the wicked land that did this.

Queen Veronica - Don't worry, Your Holiness, God's Will will be done, in this life, as it will be in the next.

Patriarch Nicolaus - My, you've come along in your faith quickly, my Queen.

Queen Veronica - It helps when your no-good husband won't ever spend any time with you.

Prince Ioannes responded in a teasing manner:

Prince Ioannes - Come on, Veronica. Give him a break! He only needed 5 World Bowls to finally win one.

The Queen laughed

Patriarch Nicolaus - So, what's our next move?

Queen Veronica - We wait until Ciqi finally falls to the Republican Army. Then, we unleash the Christian State.

Prince Ioannes - That won't be long, my Queen. With every second, the Armies of the Lord move closer to Paykong. Its only a matter of time.

Patriarch Nicoalus V - Indeed, it is. We wait, for now. We lie low. Then, when the time is right, we strike.

Queen Veronica - When God is on your side, there is nobody that can stop you!

All 3 of them - Deus Vult! Deus Vult! Deus Vult! Deus Vult! Deus Vult! Deus Vult! Deus Vult!

They continued chatting for a while, plotting multiversal domination...

by **Mizuyuki** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 6:38 pm

Kiriyama Fuu

The camp's facilities were nothing if not state of the art. You would expect that; the FA did plunge millions of aurorae into this pet project of theirs, an immediate, and happy, consequence that followed our recent triumph in the Di Bradini Cup.

But all the state of the art equipment meant nothing, absolutely nothing, to me if I was the one who had to keep 'em spick and span!

Having been dispatched by Kaede to the basement gym to 'clean up the almighty mess down there', as she put it, I walked morosely about the darkened underground room with a broom, grumbling to myself as I brandished the broom with great strokes of my wrist. For Kirigiri's sake, even though I spent most of my time lazing around, I was still one of the managers of the U21 team, not a glorified maid.

I had thought I was supposed to clean myself up; make myself presentable as a representative of the camp. Instead, I was stuck here ... picking up lint from the floor and sweeping up sweet wrappers. Well, to be fair, I had kinda brought this on myself ...

It was another ten minutes before my perfunctory cleaning of the gym was finished. Grinning from ear to ear, I surveyed the room with an immense innate satisfaction; after all, it took serious work to carry out a perfunctory cleaning. Much more work than actually cleaning the place. I gave myself a mental pat on the back as I stowed the broom away in a nearby storeroom and removed the makeshift bandana from my hair.

Humming to myself, I went over to the lift and stepped inside. My good spirits had been restored in a flash by the thought of having a bunch of Electrumite players all to myself. Even though I wasn't technically in charge of them, what with their development officer or something tagging along for the ride, I was hella pumped up for the occasion! If there were any girls amongst them, I would take them out for tea and feed them scones; I would play cards with them; I would bake chocolate brownies for them ... and well, if they were guys, I suppose I could do the least I should and play some football with them, huh.

The elevator dinged and its doors slipped open with a soft pneumatic hiss. I was just about to step out into the lobby when a most pungent odour assaulted me; it was, to put it mildly - absolutely retch-worthy. Trying not to breath in in the midst of the evil atmosphere, I resisted the urge to throw up and turned the corner - to be greeted with the single most astonishing sight I'd ever seen in all my living days.

I could only heave a heavy sigh and cast my eyes to the heavens.

"I'll go get a mop."

by **Garifunya** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 6:43 pm

"Baas" Gillaat (taken from Your Guide to Tinpot Dictatorships)

Garifunya was a multiparty democracy when it gained its independence in 1948 and continued to be for the first 10 years of its existence, with the racially-cooperative, centre-left Social Democrats controlling the legislature for this entire time. Garifunya was briefly a Communist state from 1958-1960, but parliamentary democracy was restored. Unfortunately, the Social Democrats had been crippled by the loss of its white supporters, and no party was strong enough to fill the vacuum. Garifunya endured a series of ineffective minority governments for fourteen years, before the armed forces took power in a coup d'etat in 1974. The country was ruled by a junta for ten years before Jan Patriek Gillaat purged the junta's leadership and assumed power as President.

Gillaat was born in the small village of Kyauvelle, in Aryncasse Province, in 1944. Orphaned at a young age, he was sent to live with his wealthy aunt and uncle (a government bureaucrat) in Frederykvil. He attended the prestigious private school Sint Frederyk's from age five to fourteen, and was often made fun of and verbally and physically abused by the white students at the school. It is believed that these experiences formed his deeply anti-colonialist attitude. When the Communists took over in 1958, he was sent to public school and his uncle and many of his uncle's coworkers were imprisoned for their conservative beliefs. Although it is clear that there was no love lost between Gillaat and his uncle, the loss of his comfortable social position and the Communist indoctrination he endured in public school embedded deep within him a hatred of Communists and just about anyone left of center. He was turned away from the resistance army in 1960 based on age and physical condition, but was an enthusiastic supporter of the US-backed counter-coup that toppled the Communist government. He spent the next two years studying military history and strategy and training his body. He was an outstanding athlete and placed fourth at the U18 national championships in the long jump. By all accounts, he was intelligent, but rejected a scholarship to the University of Mytelbeerg to join the army. His uncle's old connections got him on the officer track, and he quickly advanced, becoming a kapitein at age 26.

His support of the military coup in 1974 and his loyalty afterwards got him named as Minister of Information in 1976, at age 32. He quickly became an excellent propagandist and a shrewd politician, and maneuvered his way into being named Foreign Minister in 1982. This position allowed him to secretly build up foreign support for his own rule. His propaganda machine built him a strong domestic support network, which he armed with weapons from abroad. Finally, on May 26, 1984, his paramilitary organization Fyet Garifunyaan and his army supporters captured and executed the other members of the junta. Gillaat declared himself President under a new constitution and began cracking down on any other potential opponents. The people welcomed the coup, as the junta had utterly failed to improve the nation. Gillaat adopted populist policies to appease the crowds for his first few years, but has gradually retracted those as he agglomerates wealth and power to himself.

Gillaat, colloquially nicknamed "Baas Gillaat", has ruled Garifunya for the past 30 years as President. Every 5 years, Gillaat has called presidential elections, and every 10 years, he has promulgated a new constitution that allows him to run again and serve two five-year terms. Gillaat and the state control the elections and few candidates have ever chosen to run against him. Gillaat's constitutions have gotten gradually more progressive, but he maintains absolute control of the military and the government and can censor the press and suppress protests at will. His political opponents have either been assassinated or have fled the country, though Immanuel Prins has been gaining popularity and has survived a pair of attempts on his life.

by **Yttribia** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 7:03 pm

The Outsiders
Part One
Part Two
Part Three

Mallory was stunned by everyone flocking to her. She after all, was a young student who had entered a world that she had never encountered before. She was experiencing events that she had never experienced first hand. She was an outsider to all of this. And so when everyone from the press had come to her side, encompassing her with questions, she had no idea what was going on. The amount of people who had come to seek her attention was just too much. Not only were the press bothering her, but the fact that a bunch of strangers in the nation's most dangerous city had all rallied behind her was flabbergasting her as well. Hell, the fact that they somehow guessed she was the sole witness was crazy enough.

All of these people wanted to know who she was, what she was doing, her personal background. And this was far too much for Mallory. She wanted to be a regular person, after all. But instead, she became the biggest celebrity in all of La Halda. All because of the fact that she took the route she took home. Instead of being stuck at the crisis centre, volunteering for a bunch of crackheads, welfare abusers, and even those who actually need the help, she was now the centre of attention in the city. And with everyone surrounding her, she honestly didn't feel like she deserved all of this attention. The only difference in what she sees was now what she has seen, she thought.

And now, protesters riled over her as the savior of society in La Halda. They thought of her as the girl who could reunite the city with the nation. They thought that that she was the girl who could save the city. But granted, there was that persistent fear of her testimony being considered a sham by the police. Maybe there was the chance the police could manipulate the testimony in their favour. For all they know, she could not even be the right person. However, the protesters have the hope that she is the one. But one thing became certain.

She became the Outsider.

A family of four is gathered around the television set, channel surfing before the start of the Ravens football match. Advertisements are running through rapidly as they want to get in maximum revenue before the match.

bzzt

"...Memo Mayos here, with the fantastic new laundry detergent here, known as 'S-uper Spiffy!' Using sulfur to cle-"

bzzt

"...nd a ship, shop, so rapidly and quickly that when we ship, you shop on our website bazooka.cy to the rhythm of the beat..."

bzzt

"...Are you a business person in Atlantian Oceania, Rushmore, Esportiva, or any other major region? If so, Defenestration Incorporated is looking forward to opening national and regional headquarters in your town! Founded as a joint agreement by Equestrian, Yttribian, and Mizuyuki-jin investors, Defenestration Incorporated is a massive conglomerate specializing in various lines of businesses around the world. From our excellent copyright claims department, to window manufacturing, to the creation of operating systems for your personal computer, to yes: defenestrating people; we strive to excel in all of these departments. And by bringing our offices to your lovely nation, we can ensure you that great success and riches will come pouring in. With our main offices located in Manehattan, Fontvieille, and Kirayuki, we here at Defenestration Incorporated strive to expand our horizons, and become a company you can trust!"

The logo of the company flashes on screen, followed by a number to call in order to inquire about expansion.

The father of the family, bellowed out in gluttony that "the company has a better chance of staying afloat than Estenia beating us!"

by **Star United States** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 7:29 pm

The Rise and Fall of the Starian Governments

Chapter 2, Part I: The Aftermath

The Forgotten Mini-Side Story
Exert from M.'s journal...

The Communist Party of Star United States has always been around, and unappreciated. They never gained a seat in the Federal Republic's Congress. They were ignored. They were placed on a shelf and forgot. Are we that unimportant?

Everyone else was allowed and gained a seat in congress, socialism, capitalism, but never ever did someone here: "A Seat for Communism!" Being ignored is depriving. Nonsense. Are we that unimportant?

"With Liberty, We Stand." That's what this country stands by. Where's the liberty? Why can't we stand? Are we that unimportant?

We are so unimportant. We have been forgotten by the Federal Government. Forgotten.

Forgotten. With liberty, everyone else was able to say what they think. With liberty, everyone else wasn't forgotten. Where is our liberty?

I am tired of this. I will not acquiesced to being ignored. Forgotten. Unimportant.

So, I have made myself a little plan..."

News on the Islands
Starian Administration Regions

Chaos hit the Terrabondate in Esportiva, as regions refused to accept the control of the Blun Communist State of Star United States. These regions have sprouted throughout the country. They were known as city-states but, have had success to become different administration regions. They have successfully fragmented the political balance and organization of the Blun Communist State.

All these different regions have any former Federal Republic of Star United States a political unstable place.

Blun Communist State of Star United States (formerly: Federal Republic of Star United States, Blu City-State
This administrative region was founded by the Starian city-state of Blu. Blu was responsible for planning the hostile takeover of the Federal Republic. Officially acts under the name: Star United States.

Oligarchy Community of Manu (formerly: Manu City-State)
Originated from the small city-state of Manu, it has become the largest separate admin region. The region is managed by the elite, who live in the city of Manu. The city is now walled, and exclusive, in the sense that no one can enter the city but anyone inside can exit.

Corporatocracy of Hiahropy (formely: Hiahrophy City-State)
This administrative region would have not been able to be formed without the help of rich corporations. They, of course, run the stable government and rule everything that happens in that place.

Fredericksburg Cheifdom (formerly: Fredericksburg)
Various indigenous civilizations rose from the jungle, and just infiltrated into an accepting society. Ultimately, they, superstitiously, they took over, and established their form of government with their customs.

Gerontocracy of Darkstone (formerly: Darkstone)
The elders of the city believed they had the right to led the people in the right path. They used they skilled words and convinced the population of the region to let them led.

Golden Kakistocracy (formerly: Golden City)
Golden City, desperate to not join the Communist State, put the least qualified people in charge of the government. They have full control all, and no one dares to challenge them, so far.

Ethnocracy of Estrella (formerly: Estrella)
The Spanish population rose high and over the others and established their reign. They have established their government within their ethnicity. However, they do not oppress the other races.

Meritocracy of SeaShore (formerly: SeaShore City)
Members of this region decided that the most talent people should be in charge of the government. After a series of various states the determined the government workers.

Coconut
Coconut has no government. An anarchy. The people roam free with being oppress by any government in any way whatsoever. However, they do have a set of simple rules all should and must follow by.

World Cup 70 Qualifiers
November 22, 2014
Star United States 4 : 1 Joshulia
World Cup 70 - Qualifiers
Bay Stadium, Stary Bay, Star United States Islands

Scorers:
Star United States - 4
1' Garrison
34', 45' Gonzalez
75' Gasteiz

Joshulia - 1
13' Unknown

World Cup 70 Qualifiers
November 22, 2014
Robsonien 1 : 2 Star United States
World Cup 70 - Qualifiers
Sundown Flower Central Stadium, Sundown Flower, Robsonien

Scorers:
Robsonien - 1
62' Worges

Star United States - 2
43' Garrison
62' Soarison

by **Mizuyuki** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 7:50 pm

Shirazaka Kaede

Outside, a light rain had begun to fall.

The last warming rays of the sun vanished; in its place a mass of grey clouds that could be aptly described as 'forbidding' and even, to a certain extent, 'dispiriting'. It certainly formed a stark contrast between the homely atmosphere present within the cheerful, cozy training complex; out here, I felt as if all the warmth was slowly seeping out of my very being as I tramped along the path, back towards the players' living quarters.

Taking matters into my own hands, I had already gotten Fuu onto cleaning duty on the double; she was, even now, hard at work in the gymnasium. I had been tempted, most sorely tempted, to have her attend to the entirety of the underground complex. That would be a fitting punishment for her shortsightedness, indeed - the complex was of such a size that it took me, walking at a brisk pace, ten minutes to walk from end to end.

Well, knowing Fuu, she was probably going to skip out on the job anyway ... just thinking about her made me heave a mental sigh. I'd probably have to get someone else, someone who was actually reliable, on the case as soon as I got back. When you've known her for the better part of a decade, you'd know that she wasn't exactly a person who engendered confidence.

I shook my head, dispelling those clouded thoughts from my mind. I had a welcoming committee to organise, and rowdy, uncouth Jeckish to whip into shape before very long. Sensing the need for urgency, I stepped up my pace as the rain began to fall in gloomy, dreary sheets around me, my sneakers squelching unpleasantly in the rapidly sodden path as I ran.

Great, now I'll have to wash 'em for the second time this week ...

As I was passing the small, singing brook that separated the main complex from the living quarters, I heard a distinct thump and the muffle of voices in the woods. Sliding to a halt, curiosity piqued, I darted behind a leafy bush for cover, furtively observing the densely wooded patch where I fancied I'd heard the suspicious sounds coming from.

Moments later, I was greeted with a truly bizarre sight. A straggling bunch of white-skinned foreigners crashing through the undergrowth while muttering curses and flicking brown leaves from their clothing. Leading the line of careworn, bedraggled foreigners was a face I recognised; Jeckish coach Archie Chapman.

I should have known it would be him.

Even as I looked on, the poor man somehow managed to lose his footing on the damp ground and fall, face-first, on the muddy soil. I almost cringed in sympathy; I knew from experience that the woods were difficult to negotiate for someone who was unfamiliar with the surroundings and the local wildlife; even more so when the person in question was a foreigner stepping on Mizuyukian soil for the first time ever.

Putting up my hoodie with a quick flick of my wrist, I gallantly stepped out of the bushes and offered a hand to the poor sodden chap, who had just hoisted himself back up. I fancied I could discern an expression of the utmost distaste on his countenance as I addressed the Jeckish at large.

"Ah, you must be the Jeckish lot then."

by **Kinitaria** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 7:59 pm

(OOC: This is not intended to offend anyone. However, please feel free to TG me if you have any comments to make. The Church in Kinitaria is largely, although not wholly, a mouthpiece of the Technocratic State of Kinitaria.)

An Official Communique
from the office of His All-Holiness Fajru III the Supreme Patriarch of the Orthodox Church in Kinitaria

My friends, and brothers in Christ,

I bring you news of glad tidings. After over a century of oppression at the hands of communists, socialists, atheists, and all manner of unbelievers and apostates, the word of Christ lives once again in our Kinitaria, in the body and person of the Kinitar Orthodox Church. We thereby give thanks to God that His Word has survived despite repeated attempts by the ungodly to persecute God's People.

We also welcome the appointment of Halim Peronilič to the position of Supreme Administrator of Kinitaria. Know by us, brothers, that Administrator Peronilič is a good man, and godly, and will devote his life's work to seeing the fulfilment of the Kingdom of Heaven here on Earth. Truly, we are blessed to be living in this new age, for Administrator Peronilič is the first leader of Kinitaria in some decades about whom it has been possible to make such a remark.

After such a long period of repression, the apostate may think that the Church is naught but an irrelevance in modern society. To him, I say, look upon the work of the Church in Kinitaria in the few short months since the deposition of the godless socialist order. Attendance at churches up and down the country has increased fivefold in just this short period of time. For the first time since the reign of King Bogdan V the Martyr was brought to an end by liberal forces, our nation is blessed to have a pious leader, one to be proud of, one who embodies the Word of God in his actions and in his style of leadership.

I also say - look to the marvellous work God has done in restoring peace to our humble nation. No more does neighbour quarrel with neighbour, but we rejoice that our people are filled with the Holy Spirit, all the better not only to praise God, but also to rebuild our nation, which we shall do with Christ as our cornerstone (Psalm 118:22). No more do we set man against man in our nation, but we marvel at the fact that God's grace is so powerfully at work here in Kinitaria that there is not one of us who goes needy (Acts 4:33-34).

We would urge all the peoples of the world to follow the example set by Christ, and through Him, that set by the Church. However, we recognise that Man, although created in God's Perfection, is corrupt, and that sin is rampant across the face of the earth. We see iniquity at work as we look across our region and the world in general, and it fills our hearts with sorrow to see God's most Holy creation (which is to say, Mankind) abuse their commission of dominion over the earth in such a fashion.

For, brothers, I bring to you not only a report on events in Kinitaria, but a warning to look out at the world. It is written that the world and all who live in it belong to the Lord (Psalm 24:1). Therefore, those dedicated to realising God's Kingdom on Earth must look out, and be truthful within themselves as to what they say, and not only that, but also to do everything within our power to combat the evil forces that we see beyond our own borders. I raise this point to you, because there is one nation whose abominable behaviour must be called out - they must stand before the world and account for their actions, as their leaders will stand before their God on the Day of Judgement and give an account of themselves to the Most Holy, the Creator.

This nation is Ciqi. I will not pretend that there is no vested interest from the Kinitar people in the affairs of this nation, no, because it shocks us greatly to witness the conduct of fellow human beings in the same region as our own, just a few kilometres from our own borders. We well recall the shackles of socialist rule, and abhor the conduct of any man who seeks to enslave another nation in the same way. We are also dismayed by the way in which unbelievers attempt to use the case of Ciqi to turn people against God. Many of you will know that Ciqi has featured heavily in headlines internationally, due to ongoing conflict in that nation. An official of that State, one Zhen Feng, was found guilty of grave crimes against humanity and thusly executed.

Those who seek to turn people from the holy path point to images of this execution and tell us how vile are these men of God. They thusly besmirch the Creator of the Universe with their unrepentant acts. It is known that Zhen Feng, a sworn communist, sent children to their deaths in defence of an ideology which men serve as though it were God Himself! Any godly individual who could watch this happen and not be filled with righteous anger cannot truly call himself a Christian. God has seen to it that the truth will be exposed, and in the case of Ciqi, the lies of the communists was unveiled very quickly.

To the leaders of Ciqi, we say this. The day has been prophesied when every nation shall come and bow before the Lord (Psalm 86:9). You cannot delay the inevitable. You cannot prevent that which was decreed by the Creator on the Day of Creation itself. Not only this, but you will personally stand before your Creator and give a personal account of your lives. Unless you turn from the ways of communism, and of unbelief, and repent in the name of Jesus Christ, you will be found wanting when you stand before your God. Furthermore, while it is not the policy of the Church to comment on temporal and military matters, your nation stands on the face of utter destruction. The time which you have to make the correct choice continues to dwindle. It is our prayer that you will find the way of truth and life.

To the people of Ciqi, we know that there are disciples of God working to spread the Gospel amongst you, despite bitter persecution. We in Kinitaria know what it is like to feel the yoke of brutal socialism, as it was upon us but a few months ago. We pray in Jesus' name that you will be safely delivered from oppression, and we hope to bring you comfort in the knowledge that every nation shall bow before the Lord at the End of Days. Remember to give unto Caesar that which is due to Caesar (Matthew 22:21). Jesus, through circumstance, did not deliver the message so bluntly, but we will, thusly: It is the duty of every citizen of Ciqi to give unto the communist apparatchiks that which is coming to them for putting such a proud nation through horrific oppression.

To the people of Atlantian Oceania, and indeed of the wider world, and those worlds beyond, we urge you to take careful note of the work that is being undertaken by the organisation known as the Christian State. Rumour has it that there are some within this organisation which believe it to be the manifestation of God's Kingdom. This is patently absurd. However, we ask: what is it that other supposedly Christian organisations are doing to bring hope and liberation to those who bear the burdens of persecution? It is the considered opinion of the Church that the Christian State is doing work which is good in the eyes of the Lord, and we urge Christians around the region and beyond to follow the example set by these fine men and women of God.

I wish you all peace in the name of the Lord.
HIS ALL-HOLINESS THE PATRIARCH FAJRU III
SUPREME PATRIARCH OF THE ORTHODOX CHURCH IN KINITARIA AND ARCHBISHOP OF SERENBERG

by **The Saint James Islands** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 8:07 pm

Might as Well Have Been a Win

MD10: vs Yttribia
MD11: @ Oaklands
MD12: vs Arvenia
MD13: @ Nephara
MD14: vs Estenia
MD15: @ Pays d’en Haut
MD16: vs Filopines
MD17: @ Equestrian States
MD18: @ Quebec
MD1: @ Yttribia
MD2: vs Oaklands
MD3: @ Arvenia
MD4: vs Nephara
MD5: @ Estenia
MD6: vs Pays d’en Haut
MD7: @ Filopines
MD8: vs San José Guayabal
MD9: vs Quebec

The Arena la Rouge: The holy ground of Saint Jamesian football. No other stadium in the Commonwealth could quite match its splendour or its wonderment. There were people who remembered a time when the Stadium Saint George was the hallowed ground of Saint Jamesian football, but those days had gone by.

The toughest game many of these players would face in their careers was upon them and the pressure was intense. Nephara would be no easy foe, but a hurdle to be surmounted. Even a draw against the Nepharans would be celebrated in the morning.

The squad were dreading this day. They’d need everything they could ever call upon to hold this squad off.

Nephara...

One of the most well balanced and versatile squads in qualifying. A machine if there ever was one. A squad that deserved a World Cup title at some point. You could feel it coming. It would happen eventually. But they needed to play against some lowly minnows in some stadium that no one outside the Commonwealth had really ever heard of if they wanted the title in the seventieth edition.

The match didn’t feel right. Nephara had to score the first goal at some point. Gulyèlmo Dessantos had to be embarrassingly denied a clean sheet before Les Oiseaux turned things around (or not, in this case). Something was just off...

All that came out of the first half was a couple of yellow cards. Rosenkränts was tripped up by Catheline Stockinger in the twenty-sixth, earning the latter a booking. And Rook Cathar ate dirt at the hands of Marvin Sessions, giving Sessions a booking right before the first half ended.

But the midfield were doing their job: keep Nephara as far away from Dessantos as possible. The chemistry of Yves Bercée and Angèlo Zapatero was something to behold on the pitch. The two fell into a rhythm and when that rhythm failed, Mason, Sessions and Theodoridis had their own rhythm to keep their goal safe.

The Saint Jamesian strategy wasn’t meant to be defensive, but for a team with no wing players, Les Oiseaux were holding off the Cormorants fairly well.

The first half ended and Archambault couldn’t help but crack a faint smile. Dessantos had his best performance on goal so far and the defence were working like a team for the first time in the qualifiers. Archambault and De Ròsas had been called crazy for trying out a 3-4-3, but it was getting results. Now they just needed to keep this up through the second half.

And the second half came. All it was was more of the same. As the end of the game approached, the Nepharan fans began to fall silent. This wouldn’t turn out well.

And then came the dive.

Sessions stuck his foot out to get the ball away from Stockinger and it had worked. The ball was off to Mason, but Stockinger was on the ground. Mason stopped in his tracks, knowing that his teammate was walking on eggshells. But then the card came out. For Stockinger. It wasn’t to be a Saint James Islander to get sent off, but a Nepharan instead. The ref must have seen that I hadn’t touched her. What a relief...

With the penalty denied and the game continuing on, it became clear that it would be a gritty draw. There was still no score when the whistle blew. Both sides would walk out off the Arena la Rouge with a single point.

The papers went nuts. Headlines of "We win 0-0" plastered the Islands. Les Oiseaux might have dropped to fifth on the table, but everyone was taking in the joy of not losing to the best team in the group.

Matignon broke away from the team. It was his last day in his last day in his hometown for a while. He’d miss Philibiscostal, but there was one place he had to pay a visit to before he left.

Matignon slipped into his favourite sushi restaurant in town. He knew the owner, Shinji Kamatsuri. They’d become something like friends in the years Louis-Pierre had lived in the big city. He felt comfortable around Shinji.

Shinji beamed his greatest possible smile as Louis-Pierre came in. "Hi, Louis-Pierre. Wonderful game last night. Congratulations!"

"Wait," Matignon replied in shock. "You watch football? And you know I’m on the national team?"

"Of course," Kamatsuri said as if Matignon should’ve known it. "I watch all the national team games. All of the Black Dragon games as well," referring to Matignon’s club Royal Michaeltown. "It was incredible how you held Nephara off. I’ve never enjoyed a scoreless draw so much in my life."

"I don’t think I have either," Matignon shot back with the widest grin he could muster.

"The usual?" Kamatsuri asked as if he needed to.

"Do you need to ask?" Matignon said in that oddly friendly sarcastic tone.

"Coming right up, sir," Kamatsuri obliged to his favourite customer and friend. "My treat."

Louis-Pierre felt good. With a point off the top seeds and a free plate of sushi, who wouldn’t crack a smile?

Top Scorers Against Les Oiseaux
Bruno Arce (YTT) — 2 goals, 1 assist
George Cannock (OAK) — 2 goals
Michel di Mercurio (YTT) — 1 goal, 1 assist
Raúl Monti (YTT) — 1 goal, 1 assist
Thingamabob Whatshisface (ARV) — 1 goal
Paul Serpent (OAK) — 2 assists
Top Les Oiseaux Scorers
Mikaere Raia — 2 goals, 1 assist
Jan-Nikläs Rosenkränts — 1 goal, 2 assists
Stéphane Delacroix — 1 goal, 1 assist
George Kostas — 1 goal
Marvin Sessions — 1 goal
Thom Barnett — 1 goal
Neama Iokua — 1 goal
Yves Bercée — 2 assists

by **Nova Anglicana** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 8:15 pm

Bastion, Eura

Minister of Sport Brian Austin sat in the skybox provided for him, Hayden Landers to his right. The minister and the reporter had grown to be good friends, despite Austin, a former hockey player, initially considering football "not a real man's sport" and Landers writing "let's hope the many blows he took as a player don't affect his hiring decisions" when Austin was sworn in as Minister. They were now both riveted to the action on the pitch. Eura were the heavy favorite, as they should have been. The Lions had stolen a point in Bastion the last time they visited, a scoreless draw in World Cup 68. The previous game was quite exciting despite its goalless scoreline, as the Lions were continuously kept on their toes by the relentless Euran attack. This one was exciting as well, though in a different way, as the Lions' new manager Sook Jin Lee had opened them up quite a bit. Tim Klein had conceded three goals, an unthinkable performance for a Patrick Moran-coached keeper, but maybe it would be more usual under Lee? At any rate, the Lions were in it despite the three Euran goals. The game had been back and forth, but Emmanuel Moga, Kyle Fleming, and Chris Hodges had given the Lions three goals as well. The fourth official had just signaled for three minutes of stoppage time. How would both sides play it? Would Eura, already victimized by the Lions attack, try to avoid the loss? Or would their pride drive them to seek the winner? Would the Lions accept the huge feat of an away draw and turtle up? Or would they go for the kill?

Eura had possession and were passing it about in the Lions' end, looking for an opening. A bit of a lazy pass from Glenn Anderson to Craig Sinclair. Bradley Lancaster, ever the aggressor, took a gamble and lunged for the ball. He got just a bit of his foot on it, enough to deny Sinclair. A quick recovery and Lancaster was off to the races. David Pelletier was surging out in front of him, blazing down the center of the pitch, while Hodges thundered towards the box. A give and go with Pelletier. One man, the left back Andrew Watson to beat. A little fake, creating separation. A shot, blasted towards Waller. Waller, still an excellent keeper despite the three goals he had allowed, deflected it away. But there was Hodges! Soaring into a bicycle kick before Waller could rise! Into the back of the net the ball went! Hodges was tackled by Moga and the dogpile began! A stadium, stunned into relative silence.

Austin leapt to his feet and hugged Landers. There it was! The signature win that Moran had never gotten them. Just four games into his first WC cycle and Lee had already knocked off a pair of top-30 sides. Never mind the putrid performance against New Ecopia, that man was taking Nova Anglicana to new heights.

Back on the pitch, the final whistle blew. While the starters swapped jerseys with and congratulated their Euran counterparts on a game well played, the subs crept up on Lee, seized him, and paraded him around the pitch on their shoulders. It was almost two full minutes before he could persuade them to let him down and allow him to shake hands with Louis Watson. As the Lions whooped, hollered, and celebrated, a song rose in the stadium. It started as a murmur, but gradually grew louder until more than 90,000 Euran voices were joined in song. The Nova Anglicans had no idea what it was, but they understood the sentiment. It was a salute to the warriors who had left their hearts and souls on the pitch. The match belonged to the Lions, but the stadium belonged to the Euran spirit.

Lions Schedule

Match Day 1 - Nova Anglicana vs. Kinitaria (W 2-1)
Match Day 2 - New Ecopia vs Nova Anglicana (D 1-1)
Match Day 3 - Nova Anglicana vs Isula ĝe Ru (W 1-0)
Match Day 4 - Eura vs Nova Anglicana (W 4-3)
Match Day 5 - Nova Anglicana vs Jeckland
Match Day 6 - Taeshan vs Nova Anglicana
Match Day 7 - Bye
Match Day 8 - Nova Anglicana vs Friskney Eaudyke
Match Day 9 - Western Borderlands vs Nova Anglicana
Match Day 10 - Kinitaria vs Nova Anglicana
Match Day 11 - Nova Anglicana vs New Ecopia
Match Day 12 - Isula ĝe Ru vs Nova Anglicana
Match Day 13 - Nova Anglicana vs Eura
Match Day 14 - Jeckland vs Nova Anglicana
Match Day 15 - Nova Anglicana vs Taeshan
Match Day 16 - Bye
Match Day 17 - Friskney Eaudyke vs Nova Anglicana
Match Day 18 - Nova Anglicana vs Western Borderlands

by **Isula ge Ru** » Mon Nov 24, 2014 8:23 pm

Fire on the Water
Intrigue in Isula ĝe Ru

Season One-Baptism of Fire 57
Prologue, Part One
Prologue, Part Two
Chapter I
Chapter II
Chapter III
Chapter IV

Season Two-World Cup 70
Chapter V
Chapter VI

Esiruan Parliament Building, Isula Esiru, Isula ĝe Ru

Marĉu had never hidden like this before.

When the polie came through the city, he'd been sprited away, obviously, to his quarters in the tower overlooking the Esiruan Parliament Building. The fifty-strong inner council members of the Movement had debated and discussed what to do, how to help those members of their ranks who were now wearing metal bracelets and looking out from iron shutters. But as the weeks went on, the Esiruan Parliament's lockdown was systematically searched and removed. Those defending the Parliament were led away as they were found, and by the day before yesterday, the police had taken the main debating chamber, and their flashlights pierced the dark shroud of Marĉu's fitful dreams on the floor of the room with the marble table. There were ten now, and only five guns. Himself, Gordán, Eduar, and the hostages Lareĉiu and Macĉiu, plus five guards. Everyone else they had ever identified with, as far as they knew, was in prison. It was an odd sensation. Marĉu wasn't even sorrowfull, just felt like he was floating, alone in a void where there had once been walls and companions, like the first time he had drank alone, reached for a shoulder to laugh on only to find empty air crumbling to dust in his hand.

There was no time to reminisce now, though. Rumors had reached them up in the tower of a march on the Building, so rumors were sure to have reached the police around and inside. They would be coming, coming to the tower to put him in handcuffs and pull him back to National Square to die. There was no doubt. Nothing would disperse a protest more rapidly than the sight of himself and Gordán with their hands locked behind their backs. He chewed off a fingernail. It was five-thirty in the afternoon, the sun was smoldering behind the cliff, and they needed a plan. There was still the Puelha Alba hidden in the cliff cave, and thank the lord for that. He could here the clank of metal barriers being set up, could see a line of police assembling in riot gear. A hand tapped him and he nearly leapt from his cross-legged perch on the ground, expecting a flashlight shoved in his face, a pink slip of paper with his name on it, and a policeman with his mouth in the infuriatingly smug line so many people had when they were on duty but knew they had finally defeated him. Luckily, it was just Gordán. He bent down on his knees, speaking softly and ensuring that Marĉu was the only one who was privy to his words.

"You have the hostages. Use them, Jesus. That's why those fuckwits started this whole thing. So we could use the hostages. Reach out the window and slit Macĉiu's throat, he's been insufferable."

Marĉu shook his head. To use the hostages here would mean they were rendered null and void, and they were necessary. He told Gordán as much.

"Marĉu. There is no point to hostages if they know you won't harm them. If you insist on leaving them whole for the sake of having hostages, you have no hostages. You have dinner guests."

Marĉu nodded. It was six. The police were a thin, unfeeling line, a masked line forming a mouth closed tight. In the distance, though, the streets were glowing from the light of a thousand torches, and the mouths were masked, not the faces. The beat of a drum heralded the march.

They were coming.

Marĉu drew his knife.

***

Timotéu Anhalha Imuu was at the head of the thick column as they strode down Holly Street, the main road flanked by dull red pillars, on the way to city square and the Parliament Building. He was one of the five at the head, in front of all the banners and signs proclaiming victory, independence, in Isulan and the Old Language, but he didn't feel like it. His breath through the green bandana wrapped round his face was hot and heavy in his mouth, but he loved the taste. The smoke from the flare he held was streaming, dark and pungent behind him, but the smoke seemed to do nothing but fuel the chanting. Everyone there wanted independence, everyone had family or friends who were locked in the capital. Everyone wanted their homeland, and he was at the head. Next to him, in a dark black balaclava, was Iulha. She had gotten back the night before, absolutely changed. The girl who had cried when she was taken away and given away Alassæru's father was gone, replaced by this ski-mask wearing badass who walked in with a knife in her hand and was now screaming "Fudua Polhiĉá" from a raw throat. Fuck the Police. She too carried a flare, the light throwing golden relief onto the shrouded faces of the marchers, making the twilight dusk almost unbearably bright. Next to them was the drum, beating a slow tattoo which the protesters were more or less walking to. It must look utterly terrifying, this horde, ten thousand strong, advancing slowly, step by step to the Square.

The drums rolled to a halt when the line of police came into view, though the chants provided the woven, rhythmic cadence for the mass to move into the Square, forming a line to face the stony, riot gear shifting uncomfortably as the restless line, picketed by flaming flares, spread to face them.

For forty-five seconds, everything was silent.

Then some idiot tossed a stone, and tear gas was in the air, and Molotov cocktails were exploding in the air, and then they were charging forward.

They tried to break the barrier three times, but each time the police fell back to the doors of the Parliament Building.

The fourth time, though, the barrier flew up into whirling flame, and so did the doors and front façade of the bulding. Bodies raced through, as from the back and down the street, the chants still rose and the flares still moved. The drums beat a solid and steady tattoo as protesters grappled with police, wrestling matches amidst the flaming doors raging as projectiles fell and tear gas swirled.

Timotéu ran forward.

They could take the building.

***

Bang

The heavy oaken door into the top chamber of the tower creaked again, splintering. From inside, the sound of splitering came, along with thumps and grunts.

There were ten police officers outside the chamber, working at bringing the thrice-locked doors down. There were guns flanking those attacking the wood, defending against the slight chance that some of those currently storming the doors would reach the tower.

Bang

The wood splintered again, shards of heavy oak spraying all over the reinforced plastic armor of the Police. Twice more it splintered, and flashlights went onto rifles.

When the door gave, they rushed in, covering each other in crouched runs, lights trained on the outline at the head of the marble table.

There was a man seated in the main chair. He was twitching gently, his head covered with a blindfold. As the lights trained on his irises, he pulled back.

The police moved through the drafty room to the chair.

Lareĉiu was tied in the head chair, bound hand and foot, and gagged. His right hand was slick with blood, and he was gasping and shuddering. When he was freed, he fainted.

On the table, the marble slick with blood, was his severed index finger. It was in a circle of blood, a circle that formed the middle letter of one word.

"Stop".

The window was shattered. The Puelha Alba was pulling away from the cave, the rope the Esiruan leaders had taken down the side of the tower still dangling down, dangling like the severed tendons in the limb of the returned hostage.

The doors were burning.

The blood was cooling.

The shouting rose to the tower.

"Victory", they chanted now.

"Victory."

World Cup 70 - RP Thread

Chapter 2, Part 1

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