Buyan Domestic Sports Newswire

[Buyan]

New Sideburn’s Cloaker: for providing me with such magnificent kits
Equestrian States: for the use of his magnificent small-flags series.
Equestrian States, Taijan, Felix, Mytannion, San Jose Guayabal, Earent, Farfadillis, Apox & New Sideburn: for having one or more of my players over.
Apox, German American States, Taijan, Northern Sunrise Islands, Zwangzug, the Sarian, Mytannion, Equestrian States, Paradystopia, Felix, New Sideburn, San Jose Guayabal & Nouvel Ecosse: for lending me a player.
You: for reading this.

If you want to exchange players, don’t hesitate to TG.
If your nation or something of your nation has been mentioned incorrectly (b.e. in the UICA part), don’t hesitate to TG.

Top Division Teams

Bengtsmark IF

Home Stadium: Havssidanstadion (6.000 seats) in Bengtsmark, Mullsphall (440.000 inhabitants)
History: Although the prime node of football in Mullsphall could be traced in Vadshult, Bengtsmark quickly jumped on the wagon. Within a few years, Bengtsmark IF would grow into the powerhouse of the island, resulting in no less than nine titles in the domestic Norrutliga. Located in a financially positive location, Bengtsmark is and always will be seen as a core location for sports inventions. They were the first to start with limited professionalism and their home arena, the Havssidanstadion, is probably the most modern one in the nation. They keep on following this path of change with introducing business seats and electronic scoreboards.

Last Season: 2nd in the Top Division
Recap: Exciting, that’s the least we can say about the season of Bengtsmark. It got off with a minor start, with an early exclusion out of the President’s Cup and a tough loss against Saugeais’ Bloomington in the Globe Cup. But Bengtsmark managed to strike back in the regular season and battled along for the title ‘till the last weeks. Once again, the last stretch was the bit too much and the limits of the one-man attack got visible.

Transfer season: Their first worry was to deal with the decision of goalie Eelco Sjogren to quit football due to family issues. With Saldlund, they can count on one of the most talented keepers around, but he is inexperienced. Eventually, Piaczmarski was added from Aigil Grephel to assure a reliable stand-in. Further, Markushovn seemed to be focussed on containing. The departure from Vital Aalberg to Welanduz was covered with the addition of Sico Ullsmang. On the bench, Hellson and Mickaelson departed to play, Hjortsberg joined from the youth squad and Dahlquist was bought from Forbund Bengtsmark. But the most interesting transfer is most certainly the replacement of Crassus Hopp, their genius winger with the quick feet...
New foreign player: Tullio Schi, Zwangzug
We suspect that the crowd in the Havssidanstadion will have no time to miss their beloved Hopp as quite possibly the greatest footballer to have ever played in the Top Division landed in Bengtsmark. With Tullio Schi, IF added an experienced attacking midfielder to their line-up. Debuting for his national side in the Cup of Harmony 57, Schi has represented his nation ever since, scoring an occasional goal. Although not being part of the starting eleven, he even participated to the World Cup 66 for the Zebras and will try to qualify for the 67th edition of the biggest football event in the multiverse during the course of this season.
Domestically, the 24-year old previously defended the colours of the Bassabook Old Boys. After two seasons of ending in the second slot, one would expect that they’ld become the next best thing in Zwangzug, but a few poor seasons have followed, where the end of the relegationless table seemed closer than the summit. As one cannot survive a complete season on gloating over 102d Jr.s’ misfortune, Schi decided that it was time for a new challenge, as that is named so nicely. The expectations are high, but few doubt that he cannot live up to it.

Manager: Derrik Markushovn (50)
Starting XI:
GK: Erbald Saldlund (21), second season
LD: Franco Jarnefelt (26), youth product
CD: Dulle Torvalds (29), fifth season
CD: Jonas Englund (26), youth product
RD: Johan Paulsson (32), fourth season
DM: Andreas Ohlin (23), fourth season
LM: Harald Naess (30), second season
RM: Sico Ullsmang (21), first season
AM: Tullio Schi (24), , first season
AM: Magnus Cedar (31, Capt), fifth season
FW: Edvald Mattisson (29), youth product
Description of team: Few will dispute the amount of talent in this line-up, but Markushovn still has work to do. In order to allow both new star Schi and captain Cedar at the start, Harald Naess will have to work on the wing. An uncomfortable solution and players like Maniche and Husson are ready to turn that around. But who will be dropped then? The young Ullsmang, the reliable Naess or local hero Magnus Cedar? In goal, it’s a question mark whether the talented Saldlund will live up to the expectations, but the defensive line is already playing together for years on end and has the necessary composure to support their last man. For the goals, all eyes are directed at Mattisson again, who showed that he can score both as the lone deep man and in a system with two strikers.
Bench:
GK: Marek Piaczmarski (30)
DEF: Elias Kronen (34), Fritz Solvlen (28), Isak Hjortsberg (17)
MID: Ralph Husson (25), Sepp Vallenger (19), Alfons Dahlquist (25)
ATT: Felipe Maniche (17) , Lewi Fiersten (25)

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt

Home Stadium: Unter dem Linden (5.500 seats) in Pallstadt, Trovne (65.000 inhabitants)
History: Despite only existing for less than twenty years and hailing from a small industry town, Blau-Weiss Pallstadt has grown into a household name amongst Buyanese football circles. Year by year, they dominated the opponents in Trovne but started to struggle during the last two years before the unification. When the 2014 season didn’t exactly went as hoped, local merchant Helmut Kullersdorf took over. Rich on international trade, he decided to make a few remarkable changes. First of all, he sacked Allersham, the coach that had run the team for ten years straight and placed himself in charge before buying a variety of new players. It paid off and Pallstadt can be found in the top of the league so far.

Last Season: 3rd in the Top Division
Recap: Within weeks, Blau-Weiss Pallstadt grew from an outsider for the Globe Cup into a serious contestant for the title. It took a few games, but when the –almost completely new- defence fell in place, they were probably the strongest one from the Top Division. Foreigners Maurer and MIlosevici added certainty and build-up, Vrintz and Helm speed and long passes. The combination gave the midfield the time to reinvent itself around revelation Hueppe and youngster Ferdi Barcon. With thirty more minutes to go, the title almost was a fact, but it went wrong against the weakest team of them all.

Transfer season: Although Kullersdorf has the major advantage of a seemingly unlimited budget, his greatest merit is to keep the squad together. Apart from the old striker Teuchert and midfielders Goretzka and Samlhuss, who both struggled to deal with the level, who departed to respectively Seura, Haljo and Thor, no one left. On top of that, Pallstadt managed to sign Seppo Kauppi, the skilful right foot from Pohkakunti, Piotr Kluszak, the best playmaker from Second Division and Ole Schau. Although the latter didn’t always shine for Tjelberg, he might fit in at Unter dem Linden. Together they should be able to lift the midfield to the same level as the defence. To replace Teuchert, Kullersdorf decided to look abroad.
New foreign player: David The Heroic, Old Guard
It is not uncommon for Blau-Weiss Pallstadt to lift players from benches of lower divisions and mould them into major footballers, but to look for a striker in a third division remains uncommon. Nonetheless, few would say that David The Heroic is a second tier player. At the age of twenty-eight, David has two Copa Rushmori’s, two Campionato’s and a World Cup campaign behind him and can bank on a wide international experience, something which certainly will be to the advantage of Blau-Weiss during their first international campaign.
Pallstadt noted his name during the last Campionato. While our national side made their debut, David the Heroic finally convinced his compatriots that he could bring his domestic form at an international level. Before, he had always been the lesser addition to Xav the Fast, now he could carry Old Guard as well, the way he had done in the previous seasons for TP Indians. Year by year, he was the top scorer for this moderate side from the ANL 3, the third division of the Apoxian pyramid. In Tellabocari, he was a local hero, but can he bring the same for Blau-Weiss? With him and Pelzner, Pallstadt should be able to lift their amount of goals and chase for the title.

Manager: Helmut Kullersdorf (53)
Starting XI:
GK: Jan Erhardt (20), youth product
LD: Reinhart Helm (31), second season
CD: Marko Maurer (23) , second season
CD: Doran Milosevici (17) , second season
RD: Wilco Vrintz (24), fourth season
DM: Peco Hinze (29, Capt), youth product
LM: Theo Hueppe (27), third season
RM: Seppo Kauppi (24), first season
AM: Ole Schau (27), first season
LA: Ludwig Pelzner (30), second season
RA: David the Heroic (28) , first season
Description of team: Kullersdorf hangs on to the 4-4-2 diamond that challenged for the title till the very last second previous season. Erhardt and the evenly young duo Maurer-Milosevici showed that age is no signal of maturity, they are a reliable support for the rest of the team. Ole Schau starts as attacking midfield, but it remains a question whether both Barcon and Kluszak will enjoy a spot on the bench. Captain Hinze is not ensured of his spot as well. With the hardworking Hueppe and the talented Kauppi on the wings, the supply for Pelzner and the Heroic should be ensured. If all the pieces fit, we’re looking to a title candidate here, but it remains a question whether Kullersdorf can keep on adding new players unpunished. On top of that, the defense lacks proper replacements.
Bench:
GK: Carlo Hanners (19)
DEF: Sebastian Poel (25), Herzo Gluenreich (23)
MID: Damian Hullsman (24), Ferdi Barcon (22), Felix Boger (28), Piotr Kluszak (23)
ATT: Erwin Kroempf (25), Karel Hundershof (21)

Garbarnia Hoyersko

Home Stadium: Aleja Lipowa (3.100 seats) in Hoyersko, Serkau (160.000 inhabitants)
History: While most teams can pride themselves upon their trophies and triumphs, the cup cabinet looks rather empty for the Tanners, as Garbarnia Hoyersko is nicknamed. Only founded in 2004, they spend most of the decade working their way up. After growing into the biggest team in town, they managed to grab the last edition of the Serkau Scale. A year later, they could pride themselves upon winning the Ekipassamlung and last year, they were once again in the contest for the Globe Cup. It’s a sign of a team that is growing quickly, but they’re starting to feel the rough edges of expansion, amongst others in their limited stadium and their need to sell vital players each season.

Last Season: 5th in the Top Division
Recap: By qualifying for the Cup Final, Garbarnia immediately showed that it had survived the sale of playmaker Slawko Konarski, even if the Globe Cup campaign ended short with a defeat against Qidade Savana. The Tanners had an interesting season where they demonstrated to be able to upset any opponent, especially once Jochen Ptak came to the surface. With two attackers, Garbarnia started to win game by game and seemed on their way to the Globe Cup. However, a late injury from the important Jaro Martinek and a drop in form from their attackers caused them to miss out the fourth spot after a direct duel against Jottnar on the final match day.

Transfer season: When you’re a financially modest side like Garbarnia is, it is very difficult to hang on to your players. Especially when the top two is standing on your threshold with bags of money, bags you most certainly can use. Jochen Ptak, the attacking revelation of the previous season departed for Valneda and Sico Ullsmang, the vicious winger will show his tricks for Bengtsmark in the future. On top of that, the unsatisfied Ladislao Kubik left while Stefan Ribus will try to find his luck in the Second Division. A lot of work to do, but Libanovich did a few clever transfers. Adding Ezekiel Martinsen, who scored six times for the struggling Thor Rellhovn, might prove to be a clever decision and Franz Ernstell for only 25,000£ is a great catch. Likewise for Tomas Varnas from Viztourzys, who will add some experience. From the youth category, Zigmund Kaczor was added while Mirzich sold defender Marian Adamski to the Tanners.

Manager: Samuel Libanovich (56)
Starting XI:
GK: Ulle Seber (26), second season
LD: Alowysz Krupa (32), seventh season
CD: Egidiusz Chmielewski (26), fourth season
CD: Garion Bytnar (30), ninth season
RD: Pierczo Szylarsz (25), sixth season
DM: Jaro Martinek (24, Capt), youth product
LM: Jehan Slawik (20), youth product
CM: Pawlo Gruzek (25), second season
RM: Franz Ernstell (20), first season
FW: Ezekiel Martinsen (32), first season
FW: Lotthar Szylarsz (27), sixth season
Description of team: Ulle Seber showed that he is up to the task and even grew into second goalie for the national team, a clever addition by Garbarnia. We especially wonder whether the midfielders before Martinek will be able to create enough chances for Szylarsz and Martinsen, as neither is really quick. In defence, nothing changes despite the rather high amount of goals against. With the limited financial resources available, they’ve gone for either old or very young additions and the bit of magic, produced by Ptak and Ullsmang, is gone. Once again, this leaves a heavy load to carry on the shoulders of Jaro Martinek, who will decide whether this side can fight for the Globe Cup again or will have to look down.
Bench:
GK: Bartosz Hlawiczka (36)
DEF: Jerzy Blechacz (25), Rafal Giertych (21), Marian Adamski (24)
MID: Mariusz Czarny (18), Miroslav Jachowski (29), Tomas Varnas (34)
ATT: Kurt Livorski (20), Zigmund Kaczor (17)

Haljo Vannarby

Home Stadium: A. Holmarena (6.500 seats) in Vannarby, Mullsphall (115.000 inhabitants)
History: Founded in 1990, they quickly became one of the greatest teams of Mullsphall and by extension of Buyan. They have gathered a bit of popularity on the other islands due to their ‘autumn tours’ during which they played several games against teams from all over the archipelago, which were, according to our sources, the first interbuyanese football contests. With six titles in the Norrutliga on their roll of honour, they can be considered as the nemesis of Bengtsmark IF. They’re usually seen as the more technically appealing and financially weaker alternative to the supremacy of IF, but have gathered their share of the glory already.

Last Season: 8th in the Top Division
Recap: After a hesitating start, Haljo went through a season where they seldom managed to amaze us, but nonetheless stayed out of trouble at all times. When the pace seemed to slow down, they picked up another victory and ensured a spot in the belly of the peloton with that form. The goals from Ostlund even allowed them to put some pressure on the contenders for the Globe Cup and with five games left, they were even in fifth position thanks to the talented guiding of Frederik Wallenberg, the skilful right midfielder. Ultimately, they haven’t scored enough to claim that spot in the final table but they could look back at a calm season, with a locally very important draw against nemesis Bengtsmark.

Transfer season: If there was one Buyanese who wasn’t delighted with the performances of the national team at the Baptism of Fire, than it probably was Kalle Axborn as his top dog, the talented Frederik Wallenberg shone for the eye of the world which caused a great transfer to Avenida Leal for Wallenberg and great troubles for Axborn. So far, he had managed to keep the losses limited to Borje Rydell for Seura, who had adequately been replaced by Fabian Goretzka from Pallstadt, while a new keeper had been found abroad. Eventually, he would also find the new heart of Haljo Vannarby somewhere at the other side of the Buyanese borders...
New Foreign Player: Bruno Hawke, New Sideburn
It wasn’t the first time that Sigge Gren became questioned, but the shouts for a replacement became louder than ever after last season. As Palmer didn’t suffice at all, Axborn decided to look abroad, a market where he found Bruno Hawke. Although few would name him a youngster, at the age of 31, he certainly seems to have a few more years in front of him due to being a real professional. The man from New Sideburn knows very well that great results only come after great work and this allowed him to build up a consistent record for the Brookford Otters.
Four seasons ago, he promoted to the Premiership along with the Otters and ever since he demonstrated himself as a reliability between the stakes, adding clean sheet to clean sheet all season long. No Iron Gauntlet came his way, but all knew that the midtable results for the Otters could be related to the great, yet unspectacular performances from their modest goalkeeper. That he was named Player of the Season for Brookford during the past year shows how important he has been for the team. We believe that he can be the same pillar for Haljo and maybe it will inspire them to reach a bit higher next year.
New Foreign Player: Zooey Stown, Ark
As calm as the 2015 season was, as controversial was the last addition from Axborn to the squad. Up until this moment, Zooey Stown only performed for the lesser known TAATO, which is short for The Ables and The Ordinaries, one of the three teams that perform in the Lligha Arka, allegedly the smallest football league from the multiverse. Throughout time, Stown astonished the crowd with vicious kicks, marvellous assists and impeccable vision. Oh, did we mention that Stown is a she?
Indeed, the micronation of Ark will submit our very first female participant in the Top Division and she’s said not to be one to look down upon.
In her role as linchpin of TAATO, she’s been guiding them to a series of four back-to-back titles and rightfully earned the Crimson Shirt for best player in the league last season. The unique combination of overview and a powerful shot make her an attractive addition for Haljo, especially considering the moderate price tag attached to her. However, it remains a major question which way the relation between Stown and the squad will go. As all her compatriots, she’s not too keen about the male sex and now she’ll have to cooperate with them. And go will the Vannarby lads react to being pushed around the pitch by a women? The answers will determine Haljo’s season.

Manager: Kalle Axborn (51)
Starting XI:
GK: Bruno Hawke (31) , first season
LD: Ake Skoglund (25), sixth season
CD: Bengt Hakansson (30, Capt), youth product
CD: Tore Eriksson (21), fourth season
RD: Sven Brolmark (32), seventh season
DM: Ove Jeppson (24), youth product
LM: Fabian Goretzka (23), first season
RM: Arne Sundqvist (32), third season
AM: Zooey Stown (24) , first season
LA: Erik Porcin (30), fourth season
RA: Daniel Ostlund (25), youth product
Description of team: In theory, this side should be at least as good as the previous one, with three new additions to the first side. The questions remain, however, manifold. How will the midfield react to the addition of Stown? Can Hawke grow used to a new defense, where Eriksson is the first change they’re dealing with in ages? Will Brolmark, often their best man behind the halfline deal well with his age? And can Ostlund find that necessary consistency? A lot of worries for Axborn, who’ll probably miss Wallenberg from time to time, but the amount of talent should ensure another calm season.
Bench:
GK: Sigge Gren (33)
DEF: Jutte Hulsvist (19), Elias Mykland (30), Ingmar Olsson (26)
MID: Kristian Rappel (28), Stig Blomqvist (24), Pontus Svensson (18)
ATT: Johan Jeppson (27), Mikael Hammund (21)

IFK Pollmarnang

Home Stadium: Korfaltet Arena (3.000 seats) in Pollmarnang, Mullsphall (35.000 seats)
History: It’s curious that a team from a town so small and insignificant can reach the Top Division, but IFK Pollmarnang did it with grace and style. The Hikers, as they are named mockingly over their ridiculously large home field high up in the mountains, were only a small side in Mullsphall up until the last five years. When Erik Pallson, who cultivated the remote area through farming different ways of alternative energy, placed his shoulders underneath the local football team, they quickly gained their spot amongst the more powerful sides of Mullsphall. After a third spot in the Norrutliga two seasons ago, the only way seemed up, but Pallson indicated that he doesn’t want to spend all his money on football, so IFK is stuck in semi-professionalism.

Last Season: 6th in the Top Division
Recap: Few teams have such a predictable recipe as IFK Pollmarnang, but the way they manage to bring it to the pitch keeps on adding on points. The Hikers in their large and uncomfortable Korfaltet Arena could have become an ugly duckling, but big boss Pallson and manager Horning have created a squad with a clear tactic and target. New defensive leader Bart Valminen guided his troops with vigour and Elmo Havelund was a terror for all opponents. The result was a relatively easy season, speckled with quite a few upsets against the big shots. The sixth spot is the result of consistency and must be lauded knowing their limited financial abilities.

Transfer season: For the second year in a row, the main worry was to hold the squad together. Although they managed to keep their two internationals, Bart Valminen and Elmo Havelund on board, they had to let go of Mattias Sture. The quick midfielder could earn a lot more underneath the wings of Welanduz, it was rumoured, and decided to part. A bit more surprising was the departure from Grahn to the Tjallimvarn Kickers, he had slowed down but still had something to show for. At the age of forty, Vilhjelm Ljung became assistant coach from a team that could pride them over the incoming men. Arne Hellson might be a bencher for Bengtsmark, here he is more than welcome and so is Ludvig Thorkildsen, who will accompaign Valminen in the heart of defense. But the most expensive addition, while we note that Kruger comes from Gryphionen and Haglund from the youth squad, is certainly IFK’s first foreign transfer.
New Foreign Player: Marcos Pérez, San Jose Guayabal
Little is known about Marcos Pérez, the 24-year old that was added to the squad by Pallson and Horning, but the gaffer only had positive words in store for him. “He’s got the full package to become the favourite of the audience. What he lacks in experience at the highest level, he makes up with a splendid attitude on the field, he’ll fight for every inch of grass.” An ability which will certainly be useful for IFK Pollmarnang, a side that always banked their successes on sweat and guts.
Pérez came flying in from Club Deportivo Loma Chata, a squad that is infamous for their offensive line-up which brought them the title in second division. For los Campesinos, as they’re nicknamed, Pérez has been vital with no less than ten goals, a respectable amount in twenty-one games for a guy that’s found more often along the wing than in the box. No wonder that Estadio La Pradero mourns upon his departure, but maybe he can grow into the sensation of the Korfaltet Arena. Pérez himself already underlined his ambitions, stating that “he wants to lead this team to the top half of the table, whilst showing himself to Emanuel Inzer”.

Manager: Peter Horning (56)
Starting XI:
GK: Svante Engstrom (26), fourth season
LD: Arne Hellson (23), first season
CD: Ludvig Thorkildsen (24), first season
CD: Bart Valminen (30), second season
RD: Tor Bergmark (29), youth product
DM: Jakub Nilsson (26), third season
DM: Krister Lundgren (30, Capt), youth product
LM: Sebastian Lundgren (27), youth product
RM: Marcos Pérez (24) , first season
AM: Stefan Ladsell (18), second season
FW: Elmo Havelund (27), youth product
Description of team: Although the tactical plan, with four defenders on one line and two defensive midfielders who try to launch counters for the sole attacker, still looks the same, the average age certainly has gone down. Goransson and Oman migrate to the bench and are replaced with young forces, let’s see whether Valminen can lead this inexperienced defense as well. As the attacking midfield is Stefan Ladsell, who only performed in the Top Division four times so far, it remains an open question whether Havelund will receive as many usefull balls as last season. The Lundgren nephews will work hard for the team, but in the end, many eyes will be directed to Pérez.
Bench:
GK: Lasse Falk (32)
DEF: Kare Hult (22), Axel Goransson (32), Gabriel Oman (35)
MID: Isak Lundgren (23), Frederich Kruger (22)
ATT: Gerolf Poluceck (22), Ake Haglund (18)

Jottnar Kallsmudden

Home Stadium: Vingardarena (7.000 seats) in Kallsmudden, Ravnar (405.000 inhabitants)
History: Being one of the few main cities with a port, it is no surprise that the foreign influence named football hit Kallsmudden before getting known in the remainder of the island. The nickname ‘the Giants’ suits them very well, considering how they dominated over the local competition, only losing four titles in eleven editions of the Forsterserie. Their reputation has been a catalysis for gathering all talent on Ravnar and year by year, the gap with their opponents seem to widen. Even after a moderate season, every opponent trembles when entering the expanded Vingardarena.

Last Season: 4th in the Top Division
Recap: It has been a difficult season for Ulvan and his troops. After a rather poor Cup, they struggled to pick up the pace in the competition. Without Devold and an injured Konarski, too much depended on Taijani Michael Chao who demonstrated his capacities, but couldn’t carry the team on his own. Especially the defense struggled as Tufte was pushed one row up front and with only 16 points halfway, the Globe Cup was further away than ever. The start of a long chase, with Sil Moen shining as a star. A perfect final sprint, with a draw against Viztourzys and victories over Bengtsmark and Garbarnia made it, eventually, an acceptable season.

Transfer season: As for many teams, the successful Baptism of Fire of the national side caused quite some upsets. One year after Devold, the other part of the Golden Boys, Sigurd Tufte departs for a higher competition, namely the Mytanar one. More shocking was the departure from Sil Moen, after a row with the club, to Tjelberg Forening that clearly does an attempt to challenge Jottnar as main Ravnar side. His brother Roger followed the same path, while the aging captain Stensen defects to Hretha Somlhus in Second Division. The last sale, Espen Knutsen, is another loss of a talented youngster that didn’t fit with the ideas of Ulvan. On the other side of the balance, the second-biggest transfer seems to be Konarski, who can finally shine for Jottnar after a year of injuries. Apart from him, Jottnar looked for quick sales with striker Konopka from Gornik, defender Czovlap from Grephel and midfielder Hovbjard from Thor. However, most of the sum spend by Dinamo Eska for Sigurd Tufte was spend on...
New Foreign Player: Camden Stacks, The Sarian
While others tried to spot the pearls from our national side in the Baptism of Fire, the Ulvan brothers didn’t have their eyes in their pocket either. Even before the final, they had well spotted the performances of the twenty-year old left winger from the opponent, The Sarian. Playing for The Buzzards, Stacks demonstrated why he is the offensive prodigy of the nation. Domestically, Stacks performed for Marlborough Town FC up until this point, the only side that can worry eternal champion FC Chippenham from time to time.
For Jottnar, his main role will be to make the crowd forget about the painful departure from Sil Moen, not an easy task to say the least. Nonetheless, his quick dribble and classy cross could enthuse the masses at all times and with his young age, the fans still project an interesting growth curve for Stacks. We’re curious how it, eventually, all will pan out for Stacks over here, but we’re sure that he has the talent to bring the Giants back to their former level.

Manager: Freddi Ulvan (48)
Starting XI:
GK: Anders Bergh (30, Capt), sixth season
LD: Edvald Castberg (25), fourth season
CD: Evald Vansholt (28), second season
CD: Janus Czovlap (22), first season
RD: Jostein Haugan (33), tenth season
DM: Ola Wiig (29), youth product
CM: Slawko Konarski (27), second season
RAM: Michael Chao (27) , second season
LAM: Camden Stacks (20) , first season
CA: Henryk Konopka (23), first season
CA: Duco Dalmshelf (19), second season
Description of team: During the previous season, Ulvan kept on hoping that a system with three attackers would bring his side the offensive success they wished for, but eventually they had to admit that this messed up the balance too much, even with Anders Bergh in goal. With Czovlap added, the defense should be a lot more agile and if Botter and Bing can pick it up a bit, this problem should diminish. With Konarski becoming the new lynchpin, Chao migrates to the wing where his creativity should serve a lot better. Ola Wiig remains the working bee who allows the guys in front of him to shine, the question remains whether he’ll be able to deal with the inevitable pressure with five creative lads in front of him. For the attacking positions, there are three candidates for two spots, but the youngsters seem to have a bit more chances.
Bench:
GK: Ludvik Vallerengs (26)
DEF: Jonas Bing (22), Emil Botter (30), Leif Burnar (19)
MID: Petter Kluwshavl (23), Kjetil Riise (30), Thomas Hovbjard (27)
ATT: Arkadiusz Niceforski (18), Brian Svendsen (31)

[Buyan]

Pajukas Sport

Home Stadium: Bokstasstadion (8.400 seats) in Pajukas, Valneda (655.000 inhabitants)
History: It is no surprise that a team from the biggest city in the nation is ranked amongst the Top Division teams, but for a long time, Pajukas was a rather barren landscape when it came to football quality. Quantity, however, was abundant and a thriving competition between small ward teams sprung up. It wasn’t until the last few years that out of this mess two teams showed themselves more adept than the others, Spartak and Sport. Their duels became part of the legend, but when the former became bankrupt, Pajukas Sport could ameliorate their squad and truly start to claim a spot amongst the high potentials.

Last Season: 7th in the Top Division
Recap: How one sees a result always depends upon the expectations, but the football brought by Pajukas was far below par. During the Cup it seemed as if the puzzle would click, but the season started disastrous with only one victory in the first seven fixtures. Noel Amundsen played well and Gabrielius Vilkas scored some goals, but all in all, the squad looked like a bunch of islands that failed to connect with one another. After fourteen games, with the relegation zone on their heels, coach Mekas was fired and replaced by right defender Valdas Tomascevicius. He got a better vibe into the Boys in Green, but it remained a struggle till the last moment. A nasty injury for Briedis didn’t help at all, but eventually youngsters Paulas and Losokov ensured another year in the Top Division.

Transfer season: One of the more ambitious teams in the Top Division, Pajukas Sport can’t accept another season like the previous one. The ambitions were underlined by the management, that only parted from two players that were named abundant by coach Valdas Tomascevicius. Klas Grobanov received a new start in Felix, where he will play for Oxford City while David Noreika left through the backdoor to Asociacija Uraugai, two goals in a season don’t suffice at this level. His replacement is the top scorer from the Second Division, Ivan Gudaitis might be a late bloomer but should fit perfectly with Vilkas. On the back position left open by their new coach, Kersten Thorup ensures himself of another season Top Division football. The most expensive addition, however, is Jonas Anselm who should fill the void left by Briedis’ injury.
New foreign player: Jonas Anselm, Felix
With the addition of this youngster, Pajukas adds a player of which some thought he would play for his original team throughout his complete career. A true Cato man, Jonas Anselm set his first steps in the Felixian Champions League for the team in yellow and the side allowed him to lift his level. But coach Hult couldn’t get the train on the rails last season and Cato demoted, a poor result for a team with such a legacy. The decision was clear for Anselm, if he wanted to ensure his ambitions, he needed to get abroad.
Ambitions that are not made without ground. Due to his defensive skillset, combined with the ability for a splendid assisting pass, Anselm was called up for the Di Bradini Cup 28, where he and his squad came very close to the last sixteen after beating the Little Ponies. He even received quite a number of opportunities for the national senior side, but the poor results from his squad have stemmed his progress and Anselm will try to refind his form in Buyan. Maybe his performances for Pajukas can attract the attention of Haruka?

Manager: Valdas Tomascevicius (38)
Starting XI:
GK: Ladislao Kudirka (34, Capt), youth product
LD: Pilypas Petricius (27), third season
CD: Virgilijus Nojas (25), fourth season
CD: Edgaras Prancevicius (25), youth product
RD: Kersten Thorup (20), first season
LM: Kazimeras Paleckis (30), third season
CDM: Noel Amundsen (27, Capt) , second season
RM: Jonas Anselm (22) , first season
CAM: Istvan Losokov (22), fifth season
LA: Ivan Gudaitis (27), first season
RA: Gabrielius Vilkas (29), sixth season
Description of team: After a dreadful opening of the season, Tomascevicius can now look to a strong side that can take on many opponents, even if Briedis remains injured for a while. The defense is young, but has two quick boys in the wings with Thorup and Petricius. For Amundsen, this should be the year of the breakthrough, although a foreigner he was crowned as the new captain as he’s the natural leader in midfield. Anselm and Paleckis both have class in abundance and if Losokov can confirm what he showed before, Pajukas Sport will have entertaining times. Especially as there are three evenly strong attackers for two positions, Vilkas who marked one goal each two games last year, the top scorer from Second Division Gudaitis and Ramunas Paulas, who was one of the revelations of the end of the 2015 season.
Bench:
GK: Viktoras Pliucis (26)
DEF: Zydrunas Slawek (32), Mykolas Parcenivas (20)
MID: Bartosz Wladecki (17), Leonas Graucis (22), Ulli Hammersheim (25), Armanis Briedis (25)
ATT: Ramunas Paulas (21), Linas Martas (18)

Seura Pohkakunti

Home Stadium: Paraati Areenalla (4.300 seats) in Pohkakunti, Haemiilu (40.000 inhabitants)
History: Persistance has been the key for this Cinderella story. According to the legend, they started to play football when the 19-year old Paavo Rinne, a student in the islands’ capital Siklapaa, witnessed a game, nicked the ball from the locals and cycled all the way to his home town to show them the wonderous sport. Either way, two years later, Seura was founded and despite their humble origin, they always were a solid side on Haemiilu. No wonder that they were chosen as one of the two representatives of the island for the national league, but their march through the Meistrii Lyga was unexpected for all. Last season, they showed that despite their limited ressources, it was no accident as they showed flowing football.

Last Season: 9th in the Top Division
Recap: As usual, no one expected Seura Pohkakunti to do well, even after splendid performances in the interregional play-offs. After a hesitating start, Seura started a series with thirteen points out of five games, fuelled by whirlwind Seppo Kauppi and their brand-new goalgetter Aatos Sihvola. However, the initial momentum got lost and nil victories in twelve fixtures made them tumble down the table, parking them in the relegation zone with three more games left. Eventually, a goal from Sihvola against Garbarnia earned them a last fighting chance. On the field of Thor Rellhovn, Kauppi showed why he gained so much interest and dragged the team to a close ninth spot.

Transfer season: As much as coach Paavo Rinne attempted, it was impossible to keep Seppo Kauppi in the Paraati Areenalla, especially once Blau-Weiss came knocking on the door. The quick, fluent right winger will be missed in Pohkakunti, as well as the man who supported all his quirks of genius, Arto Ruotsalainen. At the age of thirty, the solid right defender earned a chance at the highest level for Viztourzys. Furtheron, Vaino and Joukoson departed to lower levels. With the limited financial capacities from Seura, the only additions were players that got a negative message from their bosses. Leon Teuchert had been dismissed as too old by Blau-Weiss but might be the man to guide Sihvola to even more goals. Borje Rydell, on the other hand, might be a lot more effective behind two real attackers in midfield. The best addition in the long run might be Vaino Kuusi, according to those who know the new Kauppi. No wonder Seura once again transferred a grand sum to the account of Jalkapallo, as they did for Sihvola last year, knowing it’s a hallmark.

Manager: Paavo Rinne (40)
Starting XI:
GK: Edgaras Kundrotas (33), second season
LD: Olaf Saari (29), third season
CD: Jani Rinne (36), youth product
CD: Tahvo Jokela (33, Capt), seventh season
RD: Kaarlo Paruolevi (32), fifth season
DM: Petri Kaapri (27), sixth season
LM: Jyri Linna (30), third season
RM: Vaino Kuusi (22), first season
AM: Borje Rydell (21), first season
LA: Leon Teuchert (36), first season
RA: Aatos Sihvola (28), second season
Description of team: Last year, we already warned about the age of the defense and that hasn’t really changed as the only replacement for Ruotsalainen is benchsitter Paruolevi. Kundrotas did well last year, got his revenge on Viztourzys, but can he keep on bringing the same? We know that Sihvola-Teuchert can turn out to be a lethal duo, but a lot will depend upon how many assisting passes will come their way. Linna and Kaapri are strong players but the creative key lies in the hands of the two new kids, Rydell and Kuusi. If there is one thing that Rinne can be glad about, it’s about the amount of talent on his bench. Vehvilianen and Pajari already played a lot last season and are ready to retake their spot on the field any minute and Kai Ruutu is whispered to be a nugget. If old and young can make eachother stronger, Seura stands a good chance, otherwise it will be a very difficult season.
Bench:
GK: Vilhelmi Lahti (32)
DEF: Lennart Majeru (28), Alti Kohlemainen (19), Kai Ruutu (18)
MID: Esa Laukkanen (37), Severi Vanhanen (20), Eerik Vehvilianen (18)
ATT: Kimi Nikula (22), Risto Pajari (19)

Sparta Torspeda

Home Stadium: Pergale Stadionas (7.000 seats) in Torspeda, Valneda (175.000 inhabitants)
History: The Orange Brigade, as they are nicknamed, is probably the Valnedan team that can bank on the richest history. Although they story counts a few ups and downs, they’ve got more than thirty years of football at the highest level behind them, becoming notorious for rising from their ashes time and time again. After some trouble with faulty transfers, they seemed to sink once again, but with two victories in the last three editions of the Valneda Cup, they seemed on their way to join the fight in the Top Division. A poor season caused a year of delay for that, but they’re ready for it now.

Last Season: 1st in the Second Division East
Recap: With the departure from key figures such as Elmar Markevicius and Armanis Briedis and the mental blow of losing the interregional play-offs, the Orange Brigade needed to look for a new vibe. Eventually, it would be their youth that allowed them to revitalize their capacity, combined with two older strikers. Darius Valantinas had seen it all already, while Ivan Gudaitis previously only performed in factory football. Nonetheless, when the pieces started to fit behind them, this clever duo started to get the engine running. While the initial revelation from the competition, 22. Czerniew Grozno, started to lose their flow, manager Linas Stutkus got the train running for the Orange Brigade. A victory on the field of Siklapaa Jalkapallo sufficed for the title and in the interregional play-offs, they’ve clampsed on to the vital third place.

Transfer season: The losses remained limited for Stutkus and his team, they only had to wave goodbye to their dynamic duo of attackers. Ivan Gudaitis received a very interesting offer from Pajukas while Darius Valantinas decided that at the age of 37, he had spend enough of his time on football and started a fishing gear shop. Although the need for replacements in attack was very clear, the first worry from Stutkus was to add some experience in their defense. Elmar Markevicius couldn’t convince in Viztourzys, but still is a strong, reliable central defender with a strong header. And that he returned for half the price will be the salsa on the tapas for Stutkus. Another ‘reject’ to join Sparta is Erik Pettersen, who only cost 45,000£. After a disaster season for Tjelberg, only two goals, many doubt him, but one doesn’t become a topscorer for Jottnar if he can’t play a bit of football. But astonishment, Sparta received by adding a player for no less than 750,000£, an unseen amount for a team that wasn’t ensured of Top Division football the moment the signatures were put to paper...
Transfer season: Juha Pentanen, Mytannion
Without any doubt, the Buyanese Top Division has gained a real goalgetter. Pentanen came to the surface when FC Ararat Severyan decided to allow the then 20-year old more playing minutes with a loan to FK Arsika. He helped the second divisionist to the play-offs, something which got remarked by the modest FC Nyva Zvornik. In the cosy Nerchau Park, Juha Pentanen started to develop his career, as his goals were vital in the battle against relegation. With a fair share of goals, amongst which a winning screamer against his former side, he kept Zvornik on the right side of the line. He tried to do the same the following year, but even ten goals didn’t suffice to keep the head of FC Nyva above the water as they got deducted nine points after financial issues.
Eventually, it was Spartak Nalchik that offered him a hand and a spot in a side with more potential. As sole striker, Juha Pentanen received the harsh task to get the SpartakEL ultras on his hand. After a nerve-wrecking season, fighting against relegation again, it was Pentanen who decided the relegation play-off with two goals in the fixture against CVMZ. It would remain the story of Pentanen’s career for Spartak. Nalchik struggled to stay out of trouble again the last two seasons and his goals have been vital for survival. However, he realised that it was time for fresh air if he wanted to avoid being stuck in the basement of the Mytanar Top Division for the remainder of his time. As no opportunities came up domestically, Pentanen decided to answer positively to a financially attractive offer by Sparta Torspeda. We don’t doubt Pentanen will smash in a few more this time around, but will he have to fight relegation again or be able to play higher, where he deserves to be?

Manager: Linas Stutkus (58)
Starting XI:
GK: Evaldas Sakalauskas (28), seventh season
LD: Rimantas Vaisvila (24), fifth season
CD: Elmer Markevicius (32), first season
CD: Antanas Mamontovas (21), second season
RD: Tomas Karosas (25), youth product
LM: Dimitri Plovnarov (19), youth product
CM: Jurgis Venclova (18), youth product
CM: Mikael Kubilius (26), third season
RM: Justas Brazauskas (31, Capt), ninth season
LA: Erik Pettersen (29), first season
RA: Juha Pentanen (25) , first season
Description of team: For a newly promoted side, this bunch looks actually a lot more solid then one would expect. Although it took them quite a bit of time, they managed to convince us in the second part of last season. Especially the midfield, where Plovnarov and Venclova make the nice weather with their fresh moves while Brazauskas remains a real threat to any team, could make scars. The two attackers showed for their previous teams that they know where the goal is, the question remains whether Pettersen can refind his flow and assist Pentanen as it should. If he can’t, maybe they can opt for the 4-5-1 in which Pentanen marvelled the Nalchik fans where Vazinskas, another one of the much appraised youth academy. If, on top of that, Markevicius can refind his spot in the backline, where he knew Vaisvila and Karosas from his previous period for the Orange Brigade, this side may cruise to a calm mid-table season.
Bench:
GK: Arvydas Maciulis (32)
DEF: Benjamin Ceslovas (18), Donatas Stonys (33), Povilas Daukantas (29)
MID: Kazys Karosas (22), Ricardas Vazinskis (19), Elco Hammer (31)
ATT: Vincas Norkus (19), Franc Donelaitis (28)

Tjelberg Forening

Home Stadium: Den Dam (5.800 seats) in Tjellberg, Ravnar (115.000 inhabitants)
History: Founded in 1994, Tjellberg quickly grew into one of the challengers of the supremacy of Jottnar Kallsmudden. Together with Hretha Somlhus, they tended to fulfil this promise in the early days of the Forsterserie, resulting in one title and a batch of honorary awards. Times change and five years ago, there were even voices to stop competing at the highest level. Fortunately, a young and thriving generation of players stood up and led the team back to a higher ground, just in time to justify a spot in the Top Division. Under new management, they try once again to challenge Jottnar as the major Ravnar club with an expanded stadium.

Last Season: 10th in the Top Division
Recap: With the addition of Pettersen and Zermin, the necessary additions were made to ensure a rather calm season in mid-table, but things turned out quite differently. Zermin too often received little support for his hard work and Pettersen completely failed to deliver. Although the defense did a respectable job, they struggled to gather points but a four on six against the direct opponents kept them in the race. Another series of five games without victory brought Heibye near the exit, but when Jespersen finally picked up the pace, Tjelberg seemed to save itself after all, with a major thank you to their defense. But on the final match day, Tjelberg Forening fell to Pajukas and got enlisted in the IPO’s. Over there, they managed to convince us that they deserve a spot in the Top Division with fluid football, but Den Dam wants to see a lot more spectacle than last time around.

Transfer season: If we don’t account the departure of Erik Pettersen to Sparta Torspeda, as he won’t be missed anywhere around Tjelberg, and the fact that Westergaard and Mussnel have been send to their new satellite team Fiarsdal Forening, than it seems that there is only one vital departure for the purple side. Attacking midfield Ole Schau left Tjelberg for Blau-Weiss and that is a loss as he was often the only source of creativity. But even though there hasn’t been an adequate replacement for him, the additions seem more important. Ladislao Kubik has the no-mercy style they like at Den Dam and Palle Angst is a talented goalie. However, we might witness a fierce battle between him and Beck, who did reasonable, for the starting gloves. The major signing of this mercato for Tjelberg was, however, Sil Moen who will bring his brother along. Moen has been the best player for Jottnar last season and has the class to make a team grow. Can he make the often boring Tjelberg an exciting team?

Manager: Dejan Heibye (47)
Starting XI:
GK: Palle Angst (23), first season
LD: Fredrik Sparre (25), third season
CD: Kristoffer Jakubsen (33, Capt), youth product
CD: Jesse Asmussen (22), fourth season
RD: Gabriel Refshauge (30), third season
DM: Ladislao Kubik (29), first season
DM: Quinten Zermin (26), second season
DM: Marcus Riel (32), seventh season
LAM: Sil Moen (25), first season
RAM: Henrik Ostergaard (20), youth product
CA: Daniel Jespersen (30), fourth season
Description of team: The defence proved last year that they’re up to the task and with Palle Angst behind them, there is little reason to doubt that they’ll keep up that record. Jakubsen-Asmussen combines experience with vitality while Refshauge is an international for Buyan. The new system from Heibye reinforces the strength. Instead of replacing Ole Schau, they simply opt for a system without pure attacking midfield but rather three defensive midfielders who can cover a lot of ground. A system probably set up to allow Sil Moen his favourite position, a left winger wandering around to the middle to score with grace. This left a spot open for youngster Ostergaard, curious whether he can bring something similar on the right side. It also creates a lot of pressure on Daniel Jespersen but he showed before that he is a real goalgetter.
Bench:
GK: Rasmus Beck (19)
DEF: Till Gregersen (27), Mads Lund (25), Hans Thorup (19)
MID: Jekke Eskildsen (18), Jerre Kvint (32), Jonas Kjaer (25)
ATT: Nils Moller (24), Roger Moen (28)

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis

Home Stadium: Nova Pylimasstadionas (5.500 seats) in Viztourzys, Valneda (115.000 inhabitants)
History: The football history of Viztourzys was a tragedy until 2000. Two local sides Olympic Viztourzys and Viztourzys FC competed with eachother till the point of bankruptcy. From the ashes, the Kolektyvinis arose. After struggling initially to overcome the disputes between both original teams, they managed to make the miners’ town a leading force in Valneda football. “Legs and heart” is the motto of the squad and it was this combination that brought them two back-to-back titles and the first President’s Cup ever awarded. In order to expand their possibilities and to represent our nation rightfully in the Champions’ Cup, the Nova Pylimasstadionas replaced the former windy location, which will be expanded to 10.000 seats over the season.

Last Season: 1st in the Top Division, winner of the President’s Cup
Recap: What an astonishing run they had, the men in black-and-red. Even if AFC Treason ended the Champions’ Cup adventure before it started, they managed to grab an early price in the Cup, going through the whole thing unbeaten. A quarterfinal in the CEdC against Urbanista only added to their reputation, but it was in the competition that they confirmed to be the best team from the nation. After a strong start, notwithstanding a slip-up at home against Bengtsmark, they got a lesser period but nonetheless remained close to the top of the table. A few poor performances caused it to go right to the last game, but a victory in the A. Holmarena sufficed for the title. A correct result, as they’ve got a strong goalie in Manuel Schmidt, a creative midfield and Vincas Daukas as a true sniper.

Transfer season: Once again, Viztourzys not only managed to be the victor of the regular season but also of the off-season. Elmar Markevicius had shown to be not agile enough for the UICA level and got sold to Torspeda, the annoyed Ignas Smetona deflected to Santa Tecla in San Jose Guayabal for a fine price and the evenly dissatisfied Tomas Varnas left for Garbarnia. The only man they might miss is Damien Balnerii, a fine talent, but they got adequate replacement for him. Teriouris won’t be missed, the former second goalie joined the coaching staff. His spot on the bench is for Eckstein, an experienced keeper who showed for Ernesse Stahl that he can take place between the stakes when necessary but who’ll accept to be in the shadow of the amazingly popular Schmidt. The main weakness was in defense and with the addition of Arto Ruotsalainen, that seems to go forward. Talking about forwards, Viztourzys opened the wallet for the new shining star, attacker Jochen Ptak from Garbarnia already scored eleven times at the age of eighteen despite starting the season on the bench. But the most cash was spend on a new central defender...
New foreign player: Firecrest, Crystal Empire
There is strong and there is very strong. It stands no doubt of which category the new defender from Viztourzys is, as the players from the Crystal Empire always have renowned for their capacity to keep a high pace and a sturdy tackle straight into extra time. Firecrest has shown to be capable previously for Crystopolis City, the most storied side from the Crystal Empire. With his team, he managed the gather the necessary UICA experience to lift this team to a higher level. After a little less than ten seasons for the side, Crystopolis decided to give the opportunity to younger players, but this Crystal Pony ain’t ready for retirement yet.
His addition to the squad caused quite some controversy, as he is the first equine player to partake in the Buyanese Top Division. The answer from gaffer Zarnevidis was quite clear: “So yeah, Firecrest has got a few legs more. The lad calls it hoofball every once and a while. So what? He's got the talent, he's got the heart. I don't care about species, I want a strong defender and he is one.” Although it remains a question how well he will adapt to our league, few question his reliability or endurance. He could be a much more fitting companion to Bartkus in the heart of defense and if that scenario catches on, they could be the heart of the team.

Manager: Edgaras Zarnevidis (44)
Starting XI:
GK: Manuel Schmidt (26) , second season
LD: Kazimieras Zemaitis (20), third season
CD: Firecrest (29) , first season
CD: Bronius Bartkus (24, Capt), youth product
RD: Arto Ruotsalainen (30), first season
DM: Danilius Wreczius (29), second season
LM: Karsta Lupeikis (27), youth product
RM: Eero Halmiini (23), third season
AM: Kazys Navickas (26), fourth season
LA: Vincas Daukas (28), youth player
RA: Jochen Ptak (19), first season
Description of team: If there is one change, it is that the Red Machine looks even stronger than they did before. The defense, often the shaky part last season might grow into a fortress with the strong Firecrest and the reliable Ruotsalainen. Wreczius is a top-tier defensive midfield and the boys on the wings know what to do. The attack contains two guys that can easily score ten or more goals in a season, always a plus if you’re aiming for the title. Zarnevidis keeps the concept and made it stronger, only two question marks remain. Will Navickas be able to pick up the UICA pace and how will the team react to injuries? The bench mainly contains youth players and older guys who can fill in for a few minute, but cannot serve for a month at top level.
Bench:
GK: David Eckstein (32)
DEF: Algis Lupeikis (30), Povilas Rovnas (26), Giedius Justs (18)
MID: Darius Lovas (32), Vridrich Lammerschon (20), Paro Egilius (18)
ATT: Stasys Grinbergas (33), Elija Liepa (17)

Welanduz Vadshult

Home Stadium: Lyckastadion (4.600 seats) in Vadshult, Mullsphall (490.000 inhabitants)
History: The core of Buyanese football, starting off with a few students kicking a ball around, was founded in Vadshult and as it is the biggest city of the archipelago, it is only right that there is a squad from that town represented in the Top Division. Welanduz already was around at the foundation of the Norrutliga, the highest tier of organised football in Mullsphall, and it was no wonder that they were close to the national tier. However, they failed to perform in the IPOs, even with the added efforts from the folded BK Vadshult. Nonetheless, they’re here this time around and Den Hingstar intend to hold high the honour of their city.

Last Season: 1st in the Second Division North
Recap: Few teams managed to bring the fluid play from Welanduz in the much despised Second Division. From the first matchday onwards, Vadshult simply dominated the competition and goalkeeper Westermark only had to turn around six times in the first twelve games, resulting in a virtually unbridgeable nine-point gap. Later on, Welanduz started to drop some points, partially due to experiments with the line-up, but when the dust had settled, Welanduz was the clear champion, eight points ahead of Hollkoping.

Transfer season: Although they were quite dominant in the Second Division, Sven Kallso knew that it would demand an added factor to survive without too many trouble in the Top Division. First of all, he added a real conductor on the midfield, and the first name to spring to his mind was Vital Aalberg. Aalberg had always been a Vadshult player up until the moment Bengtsmark snatched him away, now he’s home again. The midfield started to look even more sophisticated when Mattias Sture from Pollmarnang was announced, a talented man who hasn’t always been able to show himself for IFK. The cherry on the cake was a late release by Aigil Grephel of Dario Lossching, an additional striker for Vadshult who can challenge Hammargren and Skulason for a spot in the line-up.

Manager: Sven Kallso (55)
Starting XI:
GK: Bertil Westermark (29), fourth season
LD: Fridtjof Odenberg (33, Capt), youth product
CD: Kalle Skarsgard (23), third season
CD: Marten Brodd (25), youth product
RD: Roffe Geijer (28), second season
DM: Theodor Palm (24), sixth season
LM: Vital Aalberg (34), first season
RM: Mattias Sture (20), first season
CM: Dan Gelson (23), youth product
LA: Dario Lossching (25), first season
RA: Johan Hammargren (28), fifth season
Description of team: It’s quite a jolly bunch and the great experience from the Second Division made this a side that really sticks together. Especially the defense might not consist out of great talents, but together they’re quite a fine side. Dan Gelson has the capacity to guide a midfield, but we expect that his capacities will come out a lot more with Aalberg beside him. We’re not entirely sure how Palm will cope with more offensive wing midfielders, as Kalfeld and Person, who played there previously, were more helpful than the current guys. In attack they’ve got the possibility to rotate a bit but we suspect that Johan Hammargren will be the vital one, he scores easily.
Bench:
GK: Tim Widforss (29)
DEF: Torkel Friberg (16), David Stenbeck (24), Ansgar Malmsten (33)
MID: Valter Jacobsson (22), Elof Kalfeld (28), Gosta Posse (19)
ATT: Yngve Skulason (18), Joakim Edgren (31)

[Buyan]

President’s Cup

Quarterfinals

15h00 Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–0 Tjallimvarn Kickers (1–0 AET)

No excuses for Garbarnia Hoyersko, they had received the home advantage against the Mullsphaller underdogs so a packed Aleja Lipowa expected a continuation of the qualification phase, where the Tanners grabbed seven points out of nine. But their opponents clearly hadn’t come all the way to Serkau to allow being slaughtered and fielded a rather defensive 5-4-1.

As Libanovich wanted to avoid against all costs to be surprised by an early goal from the Kickers, he had replaced Gruzek by the more defensive Jachowski. The result was a stalemate that made the first half a waste of money for the supporters. Tjallimvarn clearly was looking for that single opportunity while only Martinek could create some danger for the home side. A free kick of his licked the outside of the post but that was the only excitement in the first half hour. Afterwards, there became a few cracks in the armour of Tjallimvarn. Ezekiel Martinsen came very close to his second one for the Tanners but opposing goalie Faltskog had a good reflex in store.

The second half brought more of the same, Garbarnia came forward reluctantly while Tjallimvarn already seemed to dream about penalties. With fourteen minutes left to play, Jehan Slawik should’ve opened the score but he banged it over the crossbar. With the clock counting down, Libanovich added Livorski and finally the pressure raised. Szylarsz shot just wide, a header from Bytnar was saved by Faltskog and Livorski saw his ball rescued on the line. The Kickers got underneath the pressure once, but Seber was quicker to a cross from Grahn then Tjallimvarn attacker Holm.

Much to the horror of the fans, it went into overtime and Tjallimvarn came closer and closer to quite a stunt. But with nine more minutes to go, Garbarnia finally found their way through the double wall. Franz Ernstell scooped one into the box, Falskog got a glove to it but the ball fell in front of Jaro Martinek who decided the game. Tjallimvarn Kickers can look back at quite an impressive series, as they’ve made it all the way to the quarterfinals, but fell eventually to Hoyersko. The favourites from Serkau cannot be satisfied, they struggled far too much to get the upper hand here.

15h00 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 3–0 JX Jurbiskis

JX Jurbiskis clearly announced that they hadn’t come to Unter dem Linden to hope for penalties, as “guys like Pelzner and David the Heroic always get a goal against a side like ours”. Not sure whether that’s showing confidence or not. For Blau-Weiss, Piotr Kluszak made his debut instead of the slightly injured Ole Schau. Other benchplayers who received some playing minutes were Barcon, Poel and goalie Carlo Hanners, Kullersdorf clearly looked forward to this fixture with a lot of confidence.

During the opening minutes, it immediately became clear that Blau-Weiss were the better side in this fixture. The passing was good and only poor finishing from Vrintz and an otherwise delightful Piotr Kluszak avoided an early lead for Pallstadt. Twenty-two minutes in, David the Heroic broke the deadlock, scoring his first one in the shirt with the blue stripe, something which pleased the fans. JX only seemed to get back in the race at one point, when Arlauskas wanted a penalty. Replays show that Milosevici indeed had pushed him, but the referee waved away the protests from Jurbiskis.

Immediately after half-time, the game got decided. Piotr Kluszak, who had been the star player, set up a doublepass with Pelzner and finished it off in the bottom corner. Only three minutes later, Pelzner set the final score on the board, making use of an instance of hesitation amongst the Jurbiskis defenders. JX tried desperately to get at least a goal, but a shot from Bariulis was defused. It could’ve been four-nil, but replacement Kroempf hit the post in the final minutes. An easy qualification for Blau-Weiss against the courageous JX.

16h00 Tjelberg Forening 1–0 Seura Pohkakunti

An important match-up for these two teams and the atmosphere was quite tense in the renovated Den Dam. The home team had been able to gather some selfassurance from their victorious run through the Interregional Play-offs and only missed out on Quinten Zermin, who already had received three yellow cards in the tournament. The opponents from Haemiilu tried to paint themselves as underdogs for the fixture, especially as Sihvola was struggling with the hamstrings. In his spot, Kimi Nikula was fielded.

The spectators witnessed a balanced first half where both sides could’ve claimed an opening goal. A clever chip from Leon Teuchert went just wide while the home crowd saw a header from Jespersen already in, unfortunately for them, Olaf Saari could wipe it off the touchline. Some upheaval after half an hour when Petri Kaapri went straight into Jonas Kjaer with a stretched leg. He got away with a yellow carton, Kjaer couldn’t continue the match. Tjelberg raised the pressure but should thank their new goalie Palle Angst when he came out as victor out of a one-on-one situation with Rydell.

With the young Jekke Eskildsen as some sort of false number ten, most opportunities in the second half were for the home side. Ostergaard nearly opened the score and so did Sil Moen. Eventually, it would be the latter who scored the opening goal. A good deep pass from Marcus Riel got thrown in front of the goalmouth, Rinne handled it badly and Sil Moen was quick to mark. Afterwards, Seura needed to get out in attack but didn’t get nearer than a wide screamer by Vaino Kuusi. The analysts could agree upon the qualification for Tjelberg, they were the more dangerous side today.

20h00 Jottnar Kallsmudden 0–0 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (1–0 AET)

Two sides that were more than eager to win, it is usually the recipe for a more than exciting game. Unfortunately, the enthusiasm of the players went the wrong way and the referee needed to take the necessary precautions. It had, however, been announced as an interesting match as both sides fielded their best eleven. Especially around Viztourzys, one could note the nerves as it was their first official domestic game of the season.

But after only twenty-five minutes, we were already down two players. Only a few instants after the kick-off, Edvald Castberg manhandled Jochen Ptak. He got away with yellow, but that doubled up after an unnecessary push after the ball had gone out, by that point already the fourth warning given by the ref. Quickly, Viztourzys was down a man as well when Bronius Bartkus used the emergency brake on Henryk Konopka, who needed to leave the field in great pain. The tempers cooled down a little by tea-time, but there hadn’t been much football displayed.

Things didn’t go much better after the break. Dalmshelf did force a nice opportunity, but Manuel Schmidt went to the ground in perfect style. With the minutes counting down, the atmosphere became even more grim and one couldn’t keep count of the amount of uncontrolled tackles and nasty faults. Eventually, Karsta Lupeikis was sent off as well for the Red Machine, partially due to violent protest. It was almost a miracle that we saw two interesting opportunities in the closing minutes, but Ptak’s shot went wide while Schmidt had another great safe in store on a treacherous cross from Taijani Chao.

After the police calmed the nerves in the stands of the Vingardarena, the extra-time was played during which Jottnar took the upper hand. Reduced to nine players, amongst which no longer the injured Ptak, Viztourzys couldn’t fill all the gaps anymore and ran out of steam. But Jottnar couldn’t score but for a dirty situation. On a corner kick from Chao, Slawko Konarski almost rugby tackled Manuel Schmidt to the ground, opening up the opportunity for Brian Svendsen to score. While all expected a fault, the referee pointed to the middle point. It would be the end of a disgraceful display, where it is hard to find a real winner.

Semifinals

15h00 Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–2 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt

The time to hide was over for Blau-Weiss, they fielded their best side with the sole exception of Piotr Kluszak, who received another chance after his fine display against JX Jurbiskis. On the opposite side, manager Libanovich replaced Slawik by the more defensive Tomas Varnas to deal with the glimpses of genius from Seppo Kauppi.

Both teams clearly had come to the Aleja Lipowa to take home a victory and the level of play was more than respectable. The game went from one side to the other one and if it weren’t for Seber and Erhardt, who both demonstrated why they are in the World Cup selection, the score wouldn’t have nil-nil at the halfway point. Especially Ezekiel Martinsen got the crowd on their feet, he might become the new local favourite in Hoyersko but just couldn’t get it completely right today. His best chance got pulled out of the top corner by the young Pallstadt goalie.

The second half continued on this vibe, but it was clear that the first time had asked much of the powers of the players, an ideal situation who had the better stamina. Although Garbarnia seemed to take it away at first, especially after a stunner from Szylarsz went by the wrong side of the post, it became clear, bit by bit that Pallstadt had more energy in the tank. Blau-Weiss started to dominate but Pelnzer, the Heroic, Pelzner again and Maurer couldn’t surprise Seber. Eventually, it was David the Heroic who opened the score as he was quicker on the rebound than Chmielewski.

It was, however, not the end of the drama as Garbarnia almost immediately responded with an equaliser. Martinek launched Ernstell, who dribbled past both Helm and Milosevici. Maurer had to cover two guys in the centre and that was one too many, Lothar Szylarsz easily deviated Ernstells assist in goal. But Blau-Weiss remained boss over the ball and with extra-time luring at the horizon, David the Heroic crowned himself matchwinner of this quarterfinal. The Old Guardian received a splendid pass from Kauppi, confused Bytnar with a clever move and delivered a perfect screamer in the bottom corner. Pallstadt progresses to the final and rightly so, but Garbarnia has been a good sport.

20h00 Tjelberg Forening 0–1 Jottnar Kallsmudden

The semifinal put a spell on the complete island of Ravnar all week long. One couldn’t leave the house without answering the vital question, will you support the Giants or the Purples this Saturday? The tension was evenly high amongst the players, especially after Sil Moen, who left Jottnar for Forening in the mercato, had announced that “the reign of Kallsmudden is over, the future will be colored in purple!”. No wonder he didn’t receive a hand from manager Freddi Ulvan in the hallway leading up to the pitch.

It seemed as if both teams were paralysed by the conditions and the main effort at first was to find the right organisation. Especially Jottnar, that missed Castberg, Konopka, Wiig and Haugan after the so-called “Shame of the Vingard”-quarterfinal, struggled to get everyone in place. A miscommunication between Kluwshavl and Czovlap lead to the first chance, Henrik Ostergaard’s shot was held by Anders Bergh. Tjelberg remained the better side, but couldn’t put possession into opportunities, only Jespersen came close but his diagonal header skewed away from the mark. On the other side of the pitch, Angst had to stretch himself on a fine shot from Camden Stacks.

Most of the supporters were still searching for their spot after a half-time beer when that same Stacks opened up the game out of nowhere. With a clever trick, he slalomed past Kubik before delivering a perfect pass to Duco Dalmshelf, who didn’t hesitate. Nil-one, a cold shower for Tjelberg who needed to go forward and score. But now, Jottnar could lean back and wait for the inevitable counterattacking opportunities. No wonder that again Dalmshelf and Michael Chao came closer to doubling up, especially as Bergh was doing fine again. Five minutes before the final whistle, Jespersen received the chance for the equaliser, but the crossbar kept Jottnar on route to glory. They even scored a second one, but the assistant referee claimed that Stacks was offside when he marked his second one for the Giants. Nonetheless, Jottnar qualified for the final, a game that would crown a national winner that wasn’t Viztourzys for the first time.

Final

Contrary to last year, the Havssidanstadion has almost filled for this encounter. The live televised fixtures from the previous two rounds certainly added to the popularity of the President’s Cup and first estimates guess that around one and a half million people are watching the game live. Of course, in an archipelago it’s always hard to sell out a game between two teams that aren’t from the island where the match is going on, so we can already claim this is a success. For the next years, a contract has been signed with the Nova Pylimasstadionas. If no side are from Valneda, that by then expanded stadium will house the next final.

One thing is sure, this President’s Cup final will be the first nationwide football event that won’t have Viztourzys Kolektyvinis written down as winner. The team that kept them out of the event, Jottnar Kallsmudden, certainly feels the pressure for the event. According to Freddi Ulvan, they’re the top favourites after eliminating Viztourzys and Tjelberg. He recalls how Jottnar, despite the draw, dominated the game between them and Pallstadt in the qualification phase. Nonetheless, they cannot appear in front of the audience in their best line-up, Henryk Konopka still suffers from the ankle injury he received in the ‘Shame of the Vingard’-quarterfinal, while Vansholt has a day on the sin bin. However, both Svendsen, who scored the only goal in that quarterfinal, and Bing should be capable replacements.

On the other half of the pitch, a team lines up that without any doubt looks forward to this one. Blau-Weiss Pallstadt knows that the quality of their team only augmented in the off-season, while the strangers from last year, like Erhardt, Milosevici and Maurer, now form a strong wall. Bookies nonetheless hesitate to call them simply the favourites. They did put up two good shows in the previous rounds, but their opponents might be tougher today. Blau-Weiss appears with the expected eleven and that means that Ole Schau still is on the bench. Piotr Kluszak will be the starting attacking midfield, coming straight out of Second Division, he’s been splendid for Blau-Weiss in this Cup campaign.

The game kicked off with a few calm minutes, both sides tried to check eachother out to spot some potential weaknesses. Due to the strict coverage of opponents, the ball often ended up in the feet of the wing defenders who didn’t seem to create that much danger at first. That until Helm progressed down the line, set up a doublepass with Hueppe outsmarting Chao and presented a fine chance to Dalmshelf. Fortunately for the Giants, Bergh could get his glove against his header but on the subsequent corner kick, the national goalie had no response to one from David the Heroic, the Old Guardian opens the score for the team from Ravnar. Bit by bit, Jottnar started to take the upper hand. The combinations between their midfielders were more fluent than those from their opponents but the attackers couldn’t get launched. Camden Stacks got a fine opportunity when he dribbled his way inbetween Milosevici and Vrintz but his shot went wide off the mark.

Jottnar kept on pressing and the deserved equalizer ensued. Slawko Konarski lifted the ball over the defense and Duco Dalmshelf was quicker than his direct opponent to mark. The Giants even received a few opportunities to turn it into an advantage before half-time but Erhardt was quicker than Svendsen and Chao hit the outside of the post. After the coffee, Jottnar continued their gameplay. Especially Camden Stacks, the young Sarian player, made great use of the space available. He faked a ball in the box before presenting it to Chao who scored from some twenty-five yards out. Kullersdorf knew where the danger was and replaced a very pale Kauppi by Felix Boger, who immediately guarded Stacks.

Even after that substitution, Jottnar kept the upper hand but they gave it away after a poor pass from Czovlap that resulted in a corner. Kluszak lifted the ball to the penalty point, a scrimmage and it was Maurer who could run away with the hands lifted into the air. The Mytanar doesn’t score often but picked out the right moment today. A goal that shocked Jottnar and it seemed as if they were shot at sight. A pass from Haugan to Wiig was too short, Kluszak cleverly picked it up and launched the Heroic into space, only a quick Bergh prevented an immediate turnover. No use, however, as the following action did result in a goal. Kluszak once again escaped from the attention of Wiig, set up a combination with Pelzner and sent a screamer towards Bergh. The Kallsmudden goalie could only push it away like it was a slab of lava and Theo Hueppe didn’t hesitate, 3-2.

Panic on the Jottnar bench, they had had one hand around the Cup when Chao scored but seemed to fall apart now. A few fresh names got fielded, but they didn’t provide an immediate change. David the Heroic came close to a second one of the evening but Anders Bergh was in the right spot. Stacks, who had faded after a great first hour with Boger as personal guard got subbed off as well, but the possession remained for Blau-Weiss. Jottnar saw themselves chasing more than anything else and the last energy started to be used. It wasn’t until Hinze lost the ball in midfield that the Giants regained hope. A quick counterattack, four against two situation and there was no chance for the defenders. A doublepass eliminated Ecossian Milosevici and Dalmshelf found Hovbjard in front of goal who didn’t doubt to shoot the ball past Erhardt.

A tie and it was hard to predict who would pick up the Cup now. Pallstadt had taken over control in this section of the game, but the goal from Hovbjard injured their selfassurance. The Giants could bank on the mental advantage, but were worn out to get to this point. No wonder that the first following mistake was theirs. Wiig needed to let go of man of the match Kluszak, new man Erwin Kroempf controlled the ball and turned away from Czovlap. The latter tackled Kroempf in the process but referee Mavelianen correctly gave advantage to Pallstadt, where Pelzner picked up the ball and placed it past Bergh with a marvellous diagonal. It was the last word in a hectic game, even if Jottnar tried to do all they could for one final chance but they didn’t get anything but a few yellows.

In front of an ecstatic crowd, captain Peco Hinze received the honour to lift the President’s Cup. A marvellous moment for this true club man, but also for the team itself. “This is our first great price,” Kullersdorf noted, “but I’ve got a feel it won’t be our last. Everyone who joined the team is a real addition but we still have the same composure. I can say we’re looking forward to this season ‘cause we can say without blushing that we’re aiming at the title.” Less triumphant sounds amongst the runners-up, although they did play a very respectable game. “We gave it away,” captain Bergh concluded, “at the key moments. Too many individual faults and a team like Blau-Weiss has the capacity to make use of that. The disappointment is quite tense, of course, with this loss. But we should leave it behind us and focus on the next games, our away game at Santos Luega for the Globe Cup and the start of the season.”

Played in the Havssidanstadion, Bengtsmark, in front of 5.871 fans

18h00 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 4-3 Jottnar Kallsmudden

Referee: Erbald Mavelianen
Pallstadt: Erhardt – Helm, Maurer, Milosevici (69’ Poel), Vrintz – Hinze, Hueppe, Kauppi (56’ Boger), Kluszak – Pelzner, the Heroic (86’ Kroempf)
Jottnar: Bergh – Castberg, Bing, Czovlap, Haugan (69’ Botter) – Wiig, Stacks (75’ Hovbjard), Konarski, Chao – Svendsen (69’ Niceforski), Dalmshelf

Yellow: 21’ Milosevici, 31’ Wiig, 35’ Dalmshelf, 57’ Helm, 64’ Konarski, 64’ Hueppe, 77’ Poel, 80’ Bing, 88’ Czovlap, 91’ Hovbjard
Red: None
Goals:
1-0, 11’ the Heroic
1-1, 34’ Dalmshelf
1-2, 54’ Chao
2-2, 62’ Maurer
3-2, 67’ Hueppe
3-3, 82’ Hovbjard
4-3, 88’ Pelzner

[Buyan]

Five. No more than five matchdays of the 2015 season of the Buyan United Rugby League, usually going under the acronym BURL, were played before the scandal broke loose. The reason for this were the results, or rather, the decisions following the first round of the Buyan Cup, an important moment for the lower ranked teams to upset greater names and take their spot in the spotlights. And that first round had seen quite a few upsets, with both UTR Pajukas and the Bengtsmark Braves eliminated. Those teams responded in anger upon the elimination, as they felt that the cause for this humiliation had been the need to sacrifice players to perform for the national team.

Indeed, at the same moment as the domestic competition went into a higher gear, our top ruggers had been rallied to compete in the Esportiva Autumn Festival in the Northern Sunrise Islands. With Ekblad, Vaskulkis and other Astrauckas abroad, the top teams felt that this was an unfair disadvantage. After some initial hesitation, the Union Council decided to side with them and ordered that the complete round needed to be replayed once the national team had returned –which wouldn’t take them that long, as they lost their two opening group stage games. This immediately provoked a protest by the minor teams.

Quickly, a stalemate between both parties ensued. The major teams wanted a replay or at least, a continuation of the regular competition. The other clubs refused to continue until the results from the First Round were reinforced. As most of the referees from the competition joined the minor teams in their protest, weeks passed before another ball would be kicked. Dissatisfied with the lack of advancement, UTR Pajukas decided to have a meeting with the other teams from the First Division and some personal invites. It was a long and rowdy conference, but eventually it was decided to start a professional rugby competition, apart from the amateur sides. Needless to say that this provocation ensued even more protest.

We must say it speaks for the Buyanese Rugby Union that they eventually managed to gather all sides around the table and find a solution. A professional league would from now on compete on their own, but would need to send five percent of their revenues to the amateur sides, to allow their youth to flourish. A middle ground on which both parties could find themselves. The Buyan Cup wouldn’t proceed until further notice. As this conclusion was only reached halfway the third season of the BURL, henceforth divided between the Professional United Rugby Competition, the PURC and the Amateur BURL, the ABURL, the BRU decided to opt for a longer fourth season, while the Seasogs qualifiers would be the same as in season two.

Without further notice, we present to you the results of the PURC season, which got named as the PURC4 for practical reasons. Eventually, nine sides would partake, being: UTR Pajukas, Bengtsmark Braves, Fram Kallsmudden, Zeimgava Warriors, Fortuna Harseni, Tikhovesi RK, Jurbiskis Wisents, Wladica Rugby Club and Sisu Siklapaa. No Pajukas Hearts or Stal Ciegnalki, they both decided to opt for amateur rugby.

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UTR PAJUKAS

plays in the Parkas Laukis (7.400 seats) in Pajukas, Valneda (635.000 inhabitants) since 1974
previously won the Valneda League sixteen times

BURL 1: second in the Premier League, winner of the Buyan Cup
BURL 2: sixth in the Premier League, finalist of the Buyan Cup

Key players:
Elmaras Vaskulkis, Edgaras Kacinskas, Jonas Rimsa, Bolo d’Puu , Vincent Millar

A powerhouse, with their fansbase and impressive stadium, that hasn’t been blessed so far in the national competition. Only one Buyan Cup has been shelved so far, not enough for the ambitious guys from the capital. With the addition of two foreign forces, Bolo d’Puu and eightman Vincent Millar, they should be able to go for the title.

BENGTSMARK BRAVES

plays in the Rampartenstadium (6.000 seats) in Bengtsmark, Mullsphall (430.000 inhabitants) since 1985
previously won the Mullsphall Division eleven times

BURL 1: won the Premier League
BURL 2: won the Premier League

Key players and transfers:
Sten Nordahl, Heikki Gunnarson, Sven Ekblad, Gomar Kvist, Genaro Belagova

Despite being pictured as the underdog, partially because they don’t hail from the rugby-crazy eastern part of the nation, the Bengtsmark Braves can look back at two seasons in which they captured the highest price, the Premier League. They keep up the same record internationally, being the highest ranked there. Will once again compete for the title.

FRAM KALLSMUDDEN

plays in the Njove Fjellsidenarena (6.800 seats) in Kallsmudden, Ravnar (400.000 inhabitants) since 1983
previously won the Westerklasse seven times

BURL 1: third in the Premier League, semi-finalist Buyan Cup
BURL 2: winner in the First Division, fourth in the Premier League

Key players and transfers:
Jakob Solbakken, Johan Ullevallsetter, Henrik Jorgensen, Dino Sobaccia

Replaced Kjetil Dokken, who left for the Glorious Commune, with Neu Engollian prodigy Dino Sobaccia. If their older base players can play at the same level, they’re able to be the better one against any opponent. Especially in their new, state-of-the-art stadium, they can rely on an enthused crowd.

ZEIMGAVA WARRIORS

plays in the Stadiona Ieleja (5.600 seats) in Zeimgava, Kausola (95.000 inhabitants) since 1984
previously won the Northern Islands Competition five times

BURL 1: winner in the First Division
BURL 2: third in the Premier League

Key players and transfers:
Theodor Eglitis, Juris Freimanis, Martins Lipins, Enki Vehvilianen

The Warriors are more often than not a slightly unremarkable side. However, being the main team from Kausola they can rely on a good youth academy and fullback Juris Freimanis is more often than not seen as the best available for the position. Only pity is that they cannot bank on a real strong winger to give the side that little bit extra.

TIKHOVESI RK

plays in the Samlstadi (7.400 seats) in Tikhovesi, Haemiilu (95.000 inhabitants) since 2001
previously won the Northern Islands Competition one time

BURL 1: 2nd in the Promotion League East, finalist in the Buyan Cup
BURL 2: second in the First Division, second in the Premier League

Key players and transfers:
Ake Pulkkinen, Mart Aus, Svante Koljus, Kolb Gnoghri

How will Tikhovesi deal with the loss from Jaan Kallemane. The flegmatic right wing always had been the star of the team, but with this departure to the Panoli Dockers, question marks are raised. We also wonder if the aging Mart Aus can add another great season to his tally. With newcomer Kolb Gnoghri, they should be able to present a strong mid-table side.

FORTUNA HARSENI

plays in the Mae Stadionil (4.500 seats) in Harseni, Kulmarae (130.000 inhabitants) since 1983
previously won the Northern Islands Competition four times

BURL 1: winner in the Promotion League East
BURL 2: second in the Promotion League East, semi-finalist in the Buyan Cup

Key players and transfers:
Elmar Keskula, Arvo Pihlak, Sila Malrevinen, Indrek Leok, Kalle Numinnen

The representative side from the island of Kulmarae can bank on a good tradition and a group of players that have been working together for a long time now. In the previous format, with only six teams assured of repeated top rugby, they often fell short a few points but the new one-league system, without relegation, might do away the pressure and allow them to annoy the top teams from time to time.

JURBISKIS WISENTS

plays in the I Kareivines (5.500 seats) in Jurbiskis, Valneda (120.000 inhabitants) since 1977
previously won the Valneda League eight times

BURL 1: fourth in the Premier League
BURL 2: third in the Promotion League East

Key players and transfers:
Egidijus Budris, Ramunas Ozolinsh, Aslo Privalkis, Rymantas Gylys

The Wisents are amongst the lower-ranked sides from this competition. Not only because they were projected to participate in the Second Division, but also because their star player, the reliable inside centre Olmar Cesnauskis departed for Neu Engollon. It does offer them the chance to add a few new players, like Heart’s Aslo Privalkis and Rymantas Gylys.

SISU SIKLAPAA

plays in the Parkstadion (6.200 seats) in Siklapaa, Haemiilu (205.000 inhabitants) since 1979
previously won the Northern Islands Competition four times

BURL 1: 4th in the Promotion League East
BURL 2: winner in the Second Division, winner in the Promotion League East

Key players and transfers:
Jarkko Keskisaari, Peter Aho, Elli Ranta, Joachim Gelle

Thir side is, without any doubt, a question mark. Sisu Siklapaa performed well in the lower divisions but didn’t really amaze on the highest level: they lost all five games of the abandoned 2015 season. But Sisu made very clear that there is no pressure, with the step to professionalism they want to build slowly and try to make the most of the Haemiilu derby against Tikhovesi.

WLADICA RUGBY CLUB

plays in the Dolinarena (5.600 seats) in Wladica, Serkau (310.000 inhabitants) since 2005
previously won the Serkau-Baskin Challenge three times

BURL 1: 5th in the Promotion League East
BURL 2: winner in the Promotion League West

Key players and transfers:
Marcin Balducz, Jerzy Paterski, Maxim Sidlo, Gerald Astrauckas, Zbigniew Pluzscek

With the incoming transfers made, we suspect that they might be worth more than their status assumes. Especially Pluzscek, who moved back after a brief stay for the now amateur Stal Ciegnalki, might be a wild-card, while Astrauckas –sold by UTR- is thriving on revenge. If not an addition on merit, certainly an addition on atmosphere as few stadiums are as cozy as the Dolinarena.

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Matchday 1
Fortuna Harseni 18–17 Sisu Siklapaa
UTR Pajukas 27–13 Jurbiskis Wisents
Fram Kallsmudden 31–21 Wladica Rugby Club
Bengtsmark Braves 6–26 Tikhovesi RK

The Braves have a lousy start of the season, a magnificent debut for Communadi Kolb Gnoghri

Matchday 2
Wladica Rugby Club 15–23 Bengtsmark Braves
Jurbiskis Wisents 23–21 Fram Kallsmudden
Sisu Siklapaa 0–0 UTR Pajukas
Zeimgava Warriors 0–9 Fortuna Harseni

Fortuna Harseni continues their splendid start of the season

Matchday 3

UTR Pajukas 20–6 Zeimgava Warriors
Fram Kallsmudden 39–11 Sisu Siklapaa
Bengtsmark Braves 35–3 Jurbiskis Wisents
Tikhovesi RK 27–9 Wladica Rugby Club

It took them a few days, but the Braves are getting the engine running.

Matchday 4

Jurbiskis Wisents 10–16 Tikhovesi RK
Sisu Siklapaa 15–26 Bengtsmark Braves
Zeimgava Warriors 5–7 Fram Kallsmudden
Fortuna Harseni 13–20 UTR Pajukas

A good deal of close games, always interesting to watch.

Matchday 5

Fram Kallsmudden 10–0 Fortuna Harseni
Bengtsmark Braves 8–0 Zeimgava Warriors
Tikhovesi RK 29–3 Sisu Siklapaa
Wladica Rugby Club 22–18 Jurbiskis Wisents

The team of the season start is without any doubt Tikhovesi RK, who haven’t lost yet

Matchday 6

Sisu Siklapaa 30–10 Wladica Rugby Club
Zeimgava Warriors 10–0 Tikhovesi RK
Fortuna Harseni 5–5 Bengtsmark Braves
UTR Pajukas 19–6 Fram Kallsmudden

Sisu Siklapaa already played well so far and grab a deserved first victory

Matchday 7

Bengtsmark Braves 23–25 UTR Pajukas
Tikhovesi RK 14–10 Fortuna Harseni
Wladica Rugby Club 13–14 Zeimgava Warriors
Jurbiskis Wisents 21–17 Sisu Siklapaa

UTR wins the duel of duels in the Rampartenstadium

Matchday 8

Zeimgava Warriors 24–6 Jurbiskis Wisents
Fortuna Harseni 14–17 Wladica Rugby Club
UTR Pajukas 19–17 Tikhovesi RK
Fram Kallsmudden 9–16 Bengtsmark Braves

And they continue their great form with a victory against the number two

Matchday 9

Tikhovesi RK 19–14 Fram Kallsmudden
Wladica Rugby Club 23–10 UTR Pajukas
Jurbiskis Wisents 13–20 Fortuna Harseni
Sisu Siklapaa 0–6 Zeimgava Warriors

But in sports, sometimes even the outsider can win. Wladica and Astrauckas set the Dolinarena on fire

Table after one third of the season

PURC4
                           Pld  W   D   L  EP   PF   PA   PD   Pts
 1 UTR Pajukas             8    6   1   1   0  140  101  +39    27
 2 Tikhovesi RK            8    6   0   2   1  148   81  +67    26
 3 Bengtsmark Braves       8    5   1   2   2  142   98  +44    24
 4 Fram Kallsmudden        8    4   0   4   4  137  114  +23    20
 5 Zeimgava Warriors       8    4   0   4   1   65   63   +2    17
 6 Fortuna Harseni         8    3   1   4   3   89   96   −7    17
 7 Wladica Rugby Club      8    3   0   5   1  130  167  −37    13
 8 Jurbiskis Wisents       8    2   0   6   3  107  182  −75    11
 9 Sisu Siklapaa           8    1   1   6   3   93  149  −56     9

Matchday 10

Sisu Siklapaa 17–3 Fortuna Harseni
Jurbiskis Wisents 14–33 UTR Pajukas
Wladica Rugby Club 3–30 Fram Kallsmudden
Tikhovesi RK 6–6 Bengtsmark Braves

The Valneda derby is an easy one for UTR, that sees their opponents lose points

Matchday 11

Bengtsmark Braves 29–14 Wladica Rugby Club
Fram Kallsmudden 19–6 Jurbiskis Wisents
UTR Pajukas 14–17 Sisu Siklapaa
Fortuna Harseni 14–12 Zeimgava Warriors

Sisu Siklapaa might not have the most of points, but Peter Aho allows them to perform great

Matchday 12

Zeimgava Warriors 0–10 UTR Pajukas
Sisu Siklapaa 15–24 Fram Kallsmudden
Jurbiskis Wisents 10–18 Bengtsmark Braves
Wladica Rugby Club 10–10 Tikhovesi RK

Heikki Gunnarson drags his team through a difficult game

Matchday 13

Tikhovesi RK 39–30 Jurbiskis Wisents
Bengtsmark Braves 9–3 Sisu Siklapaa
Fram Kallsmudden 7–0 Zeimgava Warriors
UTR Pajukas 17–3 Fortuna Harseni

Spectacle in the Samlstadi but the honourable Wisents stay behind without a point

Matchday 14

Fortuna Harseni 11–17 Fram Kallsmudden
Zeimgava Warriors 0–10 Bengtsmark Braves
Sisu Siklapaa 10–6 Tikhovesi RK
Jurbiskis Wisents 15–13 Wladica Rugby Club

Sisu wins the Haemiilu derby, while Fram silently closes down the gap with the leaders

Matchday 15

Wladica Rugby Club 45–32 Sisu Siklapaa
Tikhovesi RK 18–0 Zeimgava Warriors
Bengtsmark Braves 11–5 Fortuna Harseni
Fram Kallsmudden 5–7 UTR Pajukas

Few surprising victories, but we do laud the attractive game between Wladica and Sisu

Matchday 16

UTR Pajukas 7–0 Bengtsmark Braves
Fortuna Harseni 14–10 Tikhovesi RK
Zeimgava Warriors 24–11 Wladica Rugby Club
Sisu Siklapaa 3–8 Jurbiskis Wisents

UTR wins a very important duel against the Braves, this might be determining for the title

Matchday 17

Jurbiskis Wisents 16–31 Zeimgava Warriors
Wladica Rugby Club 27–17 Fortuna Harseni
Tikhovesi RK 31–23 UTR Pajukas
Bengtsmark Braves 0–17 Fram Kallsmudden

Quite a few upsets in this one. The four Seasogs candidates are already known

Matchday 18

Fram Kallsmudden 22–22 Tikhovesi RK
UTR Pajukas 24–22 Wladica Rugby Club
Fortuna Harseni 26–0 Jurbiskis Wisents
Zeimgava Warriors 23–0 Sisu Siklapaa

If there is one team that can bridge the gap between the first and second pack, it’s Freimanis’ Warriors

Table after two thirds of the season

PURC4
                         Pld    W   D   L  EP   PF   PA   PD   Pts
 1 UTR Pajukas            16   12   1   3   2  275  193  +82    52
 2 Bengtsmark Braves      16   10   2   4   3  225  160  +65    47
 3 Fram Kallsmudden       16   10   1   5   5  278  178 +100    47
 4 Tikhovesi RK           16    9   3   4   4  290  196  +94    46
 5 Zeimgava Warriors      16    7   0   9   3  155  149   +6    31
 6 Fortuna Harseni        16    6   1   9   5  182  207  −25    31
 7 Wladica Rugby Club     16    5   1  10   4  275  348  −73    26
 8 Sisu Siklapaa          16    4   1  11   6  190  281  −91    24
 9 Jurbiskis Wisents      16    4   0  12   3  206  364 −158    19

Matchday 19

Fortuna Harseni 41–34 Sisu Siklapaa
UTR Pajukas 39–7 Jurbiskis Wisents
Fram Kallsmudden 23–10 Wladica Rugby Club
Bengtsmark Braves 16–13 Tikhovesi RK

Fortuna has its revenge in the Harseni derby while UTR grabs five points

Matchday 20

Wladica Rugby Club 24–12 Bengtsmark Braves
Jurbiskis Wisents 20–10 Fram Kallsmudden
Sisu Siklapaa 27–32 UTR Pajukas
Zeimgava Warriors 27–22 Fortuna Harseni

Bengtsmark Braves spill with the points, but so does Fram

Matchday 21

UTR Pajukas 13–0 Zeimgava Warriors
Fram Kallsmudden 10–5 Sisu Siklapaa
Bengtsmark Braves 10–7 Jurbiskis Wisents
Tikhovesi RK 16–11 Wladica Rugby Club

The four Seasogs qualifiers reinforce their status

Matchday 22

Jurbiskis Wisents 10–18 Tikhovesi RK
Sisu Siklapaa 14–17 Bengtsmark Braves
Zeimgava Warriors 21–9 Fram Kallsmudden
Fortuna Harseni 16–6 UTR Pajukas

Pihlak brings back some tension to the competition with two tries against UTR

Matchday 23

Fram Kallsmudden 3–3 Fortuna Harseni
Bengtsmark Braves 0–3 Zeimgava Warriors
Tikhovesi RK 18–8 Sisu Siklapaa
Wladica Rugby Club 8–10 Jurbiskis Wisents

But when the opponents don’t make use of that opportunity, the story is over

Matchday 24

Sisu Siklapaa 6–16 Wladica Rugby Club
Zeimgava Warriors 23–21 Tikhovesi RK
Fortuna Harseni 3–14 Bengtsmark Braves
UTR Pajukas 25–13 Fram Kallsmudden

UTR might have dealed the decisive blow here, they ruled at home

Matchday 25

Bengtsmark Braves 9–9 UTR Pajukas
Tikhovesi RK 14–0 Fortuna Harseni
Wladica Rugby Club 8–10 Zeimgava Warriors
Jurbiskis Wisents 34–15 Sisu Siklapaa

With a draw in the Ramparten, the winner of the season seems known

Matchday 26

Zeimgava Warriors 21–0 Jurbiskis Wisents
Fortuna Harseni 18–7 Wladica Rugby Club
UTR Pajukas 14–22 Tikhovesi RK
Fram Kallsmudden 3–7 Bengtsmark Braves

A loss at home makes the title a little less sure for UTR, can Tikhovesi upset the race?

Matchday 27

Tikhovesi RK 6–3 Fram Kallsmudden
Wladica Rugby Club 27–14 UTR Pajukas
Jurbiskis Wisents 0–14 Fortuna Harseni
Sisu Siklapaa 21–27 Zeimgava Warriors

Although a nervous UTR disappoints in the Dolinarena, they can celebrate the title. Tikhovesi comes within a point but didn’t score enough tries against Fram, that was struggling for the Seasogs themselves. The bonus point for the narrow loss ensures the latter international rugby, but the margin has been more than close.

PURC4
                         Pld    W   D   L  EP   PF   PA   PD   Pts
 1 UTR Pajukas            24   16   2   6   5  427  314 +113    73
 2 Tikhovesi RK           24   15   3   6   6  418  281 +137    72
 3 Bengtsmark Braves      24   15   3   6   4  310  236  +74    70
 4 Fram Kallsmudden       24   12   2  10   7  352  275  +77    59
 5 Zeimgava Warriors      24   14   0  10   3  287  243  +44    59
 6 Fortuna Harseni        24   10   2  12   7  299  312  −13    51
 7 Wladica Rugby Club     24    8   1  15   7  386  457  −71    41
 8 Jurbiskis Wisents      24    7   0  17   5  294  499 −205    33
 9 Sisu Siklapaa          24    4   1  19  12  320  476 −156    30

---

TEAM of the SEASON

1. Egidijus Budris (Jurbiskis - 26), main light point in a rather poor season
2. Arvydas Petraitis (UTR - 23), first man to go into battle for the champions
3. Theodor Eglitis (Zeimgava - 32), vital in the magnificent return from the Warriors
4. Ake Pulkkinen (Tikhovesi - 30), allowed them to come within inches of the title
5. Dino Sobaccia (Fram – 28), his growth qualified him for his national team
6. Sten Nordahl (Bengtsmark – 23), fastest growing star on our rugby squad
7. Elmar Keskula (Fortuna – 30), makes his team that attractive outsider
8. Vincent Millar (UTR – 25), gives the same quality he showed for his domestic Gargoyles
9. Edgaras Kacinskas (UTR – 28), quite possibly the man of the season with his great skill
10. Mart Aus (Tikhovesi – 35), the oldest man on the squad, but one wouldn’t note
11. Jonas Rimsa (UTR – 27), might be ready to follow Kallemane to foreign grounds
12. Kolb Gnoghri (Tikhovesi – XX), his dedication turned the outsider into a champion candidate
13. Peter Aho (Sisu – 29), playing for a very moderate team, he showed his pure talent
14. Heikki Gunnarson (Bengtsmark – 30), the housewife’s favourite and an excellent winger
15. Juris Freimanis (Zeimgava – 25), the true leader of any team he plays for, Buyans best rugger

[Buyan]

I’ve used the most update information I could find for this. Is something incorrect? Would you like to see something changed? Don’t hesitate to TG.

The Fifty-First Champions’ Cup

First Preliminary Round

Vasaan Palloseura – Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1-3
(44’ X --- 16’ Ptak, 27’ Halmiini, 73’ Grinbergas)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – Vasaan Palloseura 2-0
(58’ Daukas, 84’ K. Lupeikis)

Not too many dissatisfied faces around Viztourzys when the opening opponent was announced, the champion of the last Kotimainen Liiga made their debut in UICA football and it is certainly an advantage to play an unexperienced team. VePSi, a side from the Mavarian city of Latila, however could look back at a splendid season in which they and Kalev overpowered the opponence, to celebrate the title two games before the end of the season. A team with few or no remarkable players, but they already did well in their opening game for the regional Esquarium League.

The opening game in the Hitealatila immediately saw a good performance by Viztourzys, which had gone on a ten-day training camp in order to get ready for this one as they did want to see the same happen as last year, when Treason knocked them out of the first round. Before the first half hour was over, Viztourzys could celebrate twice through Ptak and Halmiini. Vasaan struggled to take over control, but the more than thirty-thousand fans in their stadium could celebrate when a misunderstanding between Firecrest and Bartkus resulted in an open opportunity. The second half wasn’t much to look at, Zarnevidis was satisfied with the result and added defender Rovnas instead of a moderate Navickas. Ultimately, the last word was for Grinbergas who made the second leg a very difficult task for Vasaan.

With a fine lead to defend in their Nova Pylimasstadionas, manager Zarnevidis opted for a reluctant 4-5-1 in which young Paro Egilius made his debut for the Red Machine. Although this did allow Vasaan to dominate possession, they could only create a chance or two, on which Manuel Schmidt did what was expected. All hope left amongst the men of Antti Uimaniemi was slaughtered when Daukas scored on the counterattack. The youngest from the Lupeikis brothers even doubled up, ensuring the next round after a moderate, but effective display.


Second Preliminary Round

Burgess FC – Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2-4
(19’ X, 57’ Kuartango --- 22’ Daukas, 41’ Ptak, 68’ Ruotsolainen, 83’ Navickas)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – Burgess FC 2-2
(39’ Daukas, 63’ Navickas --- 12’ X, 87’ X)

After the warming up provided by the champion of Mavaria, Viztourzys was up to encounter a much fiercer opponent. Burgess FC could easily be seen as the greatest side from The Inevitable Syndicate, banking upon winning the ClayComms Premier League three times in a row. Although they haven’t got any domestic A-internationals lying around after the departure of guys like Ryan Oliver, Jacob Pratt and Adam Willis, they still are a solid side with quite a few good youngsters coming from Burgess Storm.

In the massive Sunrise Park, with room for no less than fifty-two thousand enthused fans, it was the home team that started off best. Relying upon their quality midfield, guided by Astograthi Artzeiz Kuartango, they kept the pressure from the first moment onwards. The blue-and-yellow even opened the score and while all were already thinking with how many goals the Syndicatian side would win this one, Vincas Daukas slammed one past the goalie for the Kolektyvinis. The game from the blue-and-yellow, so fluid and novel before, now became less attractive and Zarnevidis had them right where he wanted to. Jochen Ptak even brought them in front before half-time. Hope for one of the oldest of Syndicatian teams sprung up again when Kuartango equalised, but a header from right back Ruotsalainen decided otherwise. Afraid to lose at home, Burgess FC went into attack, only resulting in a countergoal by Navickas.

Viztourzys could hope for a calm game at home with that advantage, but Burgess quickly raised the pressure with an opening goal. The away team had, just like us, advanced through the first round for the first time after beating Cheetas United and knew that there were opportunities in this one. If it weren’t for a splendid Manuel Schmidt, they could’ve come close to a miracle, but the saves from the German American allowed Daukas to score the 1-1. This took the last morale Burgess had and Navickas made use of poor coverage to score once again. In the final minutes Burgess could pull one back, too little, too late as it will be Viztourzys that progresses to the next round.


Third Preliminary Round

Home United – Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1-1
(68’ Junio --- 5’ Daukas)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – Home United 3-1
(25’ K. Lupeikis, 35’ Bartkus, 88’ Grinbergas --- 18’ Junio)

We can say a lot about Home United from Mapletish, but the bottom line is that this multisport club is the biggest one in the nation’s history. Having featured legendary players such as Francis Lee and Lev Yashin, the shelf in the cantina from Home United bows down deeply through the weight of trophies gathered over the seasons. Although some opponents, such as Golden Phoniex or Galatasaray, managed to break their streak from time to time, they are the side from Mapletish, immediately providing a difficult hurdle for Viztourzys to take.

The stars had looked so bright for them, yet Home United immediately saw themselves fall behind in their Rosfield stadium. A hesitation by Taylor Sadie was enough for Daukas to break through the United defence, the goalie had a save in store but Navickas scored the rebound. Aided by the home audience, United placed Viztourzys with the back against the wall but Junio found Schmidt on his way, a shot from Jeong Hun Park hit the woodwork and a chip from once again Alero Junio got brushed off the line by Firecrest. Eventually, Alero Junio quite balance the score but a disappointed Home United didn’t get more out of it. The five-man defence, where a strong Firecrest and a decisive Bartkus got joined by Rovnas in the centre, made Viztourzys a fortress today.

Although playing in their 4-4-2, Zarnevidis had instructed his men to focus in defense in the home game, a plan that fell to pieces when Alero Junio escaped from the offside trap and hit the back of the net. Viztourzys immediately tried to react and a clever doublepass between Navickas and Lupeikis got scored by the latter. Extra-time on the horizon but not for long. In a duel between Sadie and Daukas, the latter easily went down in the box. Protest didn’t help, Bartkus easily converted. That meant that Home United would have to attack, but with the knowledge that an extra goal for the Kolektyvinis could end the game. The side from Mapletish came close once, but Schmidt got his fingertops on a shot from Park. Eventually the last word was for substitute Grinbergas, Viztourzys wasn’t the better side over the two legs but scored more easily.


Play-off Round

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – FC Endeavour 1-3
(78’ Daukas --- 47’ Keir, 67’ Varano, 74’ Teran)
FC Endeavour – Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2-2
(9’ Keir, 67’ Pirinen --- 54’ Ptak, 89’ Lammerschon)

Making the play-off round was, without any doubt, already a dream and to play a side like FC Endeavour for it certainly made it even better. Viztourzys already starts to make a connection to Apoxian sides, especially as they faced Urbanista last year in the CEdC. This time they would take on FC Endeavour. Although they only house in the ANL1 for five seasons, they can relate their history on the legendary side that dominated quite a few decades ago. To relive those times, a new project was set up around Real Dwile and last season it paid off, the first title in the new era was celebrated. Named outsider before the start of the season, they chased Urbanista for a long time in order to catch up with the line in sight. Eventually, a victory on the last matchday against St. George’s Creek allowed them to celebrate.

The team that visited the Nova Pylimasstadionas was an even better side. Polarian gaffer Petter Aurelias gathered goalie Volgjsrhaad, defender Pipp and Farf star Alex Teran for no less than twenty million in the off-season, resulting in a star team. Within seconds, they started to amass a good amount of chances and only strong defensive work from the central duo, Bartkus and Firecrest, kept Viztourzys in the race at half-time. No use, however, as Licentian goalgetter Alex Keir opened the score after a marvellous solo. The Viztourzys wall started to fragment and Varano and Alex Téran found other holes. Three goals past Manuel Schmidt, despite a fine game from the goalie. Near the end of the drama, Daukas could give a bit of hope to the Red Machine when he caught Volgjsrhaad off guard with his long shot, but...

... it remained an impossible task to qualify. It even got worse when King Keir opened the score after only nine minutes of play in the Church Street, FC Endeavour could lean back now. Viztourzys kept hesitant about attacking, knowing how easily the likes of Keir and Téran can find the goal but Jochen Ptak could put an equaliser on the board when he scooped past Endellion the Hewn. Little use, because Endeavour quickly answered this goal through Polarian Pirinen who send a screamer to the bottom corner from far out. Demotivated, Viztourzys dragged itself to the last whistle, the fans could warm themselves on a goal from youngster Lammerschon but that was only good for the statistics: the Champions Cup adventure ends here.

The Forty-Eighth Globe Cup

First Preliminary Round

Jottnar Kallsmudden – Bartholomew FC 1-0
(44’ Dalmshelf)
Bartholomew FC – Jottnar Kallsmudden 0-2
(9’ Stacks, 84’ Konarski)

Jottnar kept good memories to duels against sides from the Borishium Empire after beating Samcastle last time around, but Bartholomew would be a tough nut to crack, considering the amount of internationals running around. The home game was a tight one and both Robbie Patterson and Michael Chao had the chance to open the scoreline but it was Duco Dalmshelf who scored just before half-time when a deflected shot surprised Parth White. Bartholomew tried to answer in their own stadium, but an early screamer by Camden Stacks augmented the task given to three goals. Bartholomew played better, but both Andrew Hall, Kevin Harris and Patterson found either Schmidt or the post on their way. All in all did the Jottnar defense a good job, especially Evald Vansholt could look back at a good game. In the dying minutes, when the attacking storm from the Borishium side had died down, it was Slawko Konarski who decided upon the final score.


Second Preliminary Round

Jeknólr – Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 2-2
(19’ Rocky, 57’ Selçuk --- 35’ the Heroic, 82’ Milosevici)
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt – Jeknólr 2-1
(7’ Pelzner, 43’ Pelzner --- 84’ Eregrent)

Over the past few seasons, Jeknólr grew into one of the strongholds of the large Ko-orenite football pyramid. Despite not qualifying for the Champions Cup, like last season, this was rightfully considered a fierce opponent for Pallstadt. Blau-Weiss first travelled to Esthauan, in the northernmost part of the Ko-oren mainland where they encountered a strong opponent in the Thunder Arena. The two young attackers from Jeknolr, Rocky and Selçuk brought their teams ahead but a hard-working Pallstadt could close the gap twice, although some pointed to the referee for offside at the goal from David the Heroic. Nonetheless, this splendid draw allowed them a fine position at home. During the first half, Blau-Weiss dictated the law and star player Ludwig Pelzner could mark twice with his right foot. In the second half, Jeknolr attacked with a lot of guts and a few saves from Erhardt were necessary. The goal by Eregrent came to late, but Blau-Weiss really shivered all the way to the last second.

Jottnar Kallsmudden – Santos Luega 3-1
(11’ Chao, 19’ Dalmshelf, 83’ Wiig --- 74’ X)
Santos Luega – Jottnar Kallsmudden 4-0
(6’ Alicea, 9’ Alicea, 25’ X, 67’ X)

In the fledging world that is UICA football, there are few names that can relate to such a history as Pasargan Santos Luega. They already participated in the 13th SBCC and have grown into a steady force in the Super League and later on the Liga de Fuego. The days of back-to-back Champions Cup qualifications, larded with domestic titles, lie behind us already for quite some time, but the Globe Cup and Super Cup in their trophy cabinet ensured Jottnar that they were meeting one of the giants of international football. However, in the Vingardarena, one wouldn’t have noted who was the major name and who the minion. Jottnar played with guts and grinta and quickly took a two goal lead. The opponents with the infamous Hispanic heritage pulled one back but Ola Wiig, who amazed himself with a shot from that far out, gave Jottnar a well-deserved two-goal lead. However, in Paulinthal the true proportions of Santos became clear. Within ten minutes, Onesimo Alicea had set things straight with a marvellous bicycle kick and a clever header on an assisting pass from Cardoso. Jottnar tried to get out of the grip from their experienced opponent, but apart from a shot from Camden Stacks, they couldn’t worry the Pasargan goalie. The final result made clear who was the better side, Jottnar eliminated but with three victories in four games.


Third Preliminary Round

Colonial Sile – Bengtsmark IF 0-2
(49’ Schi, 84’ Mattisson)
Bengtsmark IF – Colonial Sile 2-1
(25’ Husson, 88’ Maniche --- 14’ Andrada)

Another interesting name from the history of football for Bengtsmark IF, as Colonial Sile, the Vilitan side from the Turoki Island, has grown into a household name in both the Stellar Division, one of the greatest competitions of the multiverse, and the Globe Cup. Nonetheless, the Yellows were allowed to visit Colonial Field at an interesting moment as Sile clearly still suffered from the departure of Aguazul’s Merlin Salomon to Mliona-Lpaka. The first half was quite a stalemate, but half-way, coach Markushovn decided to replace Cedar by Husson. The balance in the team returned and Zwangzugian Tullio Schi excelled with a goal and an assisting pass. With this result, Bengtsmark could look forward to the game in their Havssidanstadion. However, an early miscommunication between Saldlund and Torvalds allowed Farf Andrada to open the score with a magnificent chip and for ten minutes, the tension rose. Once again, it was Tullio Schi who made the difference when he dribbled past Alaminos, faked a pass to Mattisson but instead served the ball to the unmarked Ralph Husson, who didn’t hesitate. Colonial Sile, possibly more occupied with their domestic struggle, tried to change the balance of the game later on, but Saldlund did what he needed to do. In the dying minutes of the game, Paulista Felipe Maniche placed the final score on the board, the Bengtsmark celebrations could begin.

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt – Atteregav Numa 1-3
(76’ Kauppi --- 9’ X, 23’ X, 31’ X)
Atteregav Numa – Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 3-0
(12’ X, 37’ X, 88’ X)

In the great order of things, the Earent competition is ranked sixth in the multiverse, the ideal warning for Blau-Weiss to watch their steps. Former Viztourzys-attacker Damian Balnerii concurred on that observation: “They win a game or five, I mean, they really wanna beat anybody.” The only domestic title from the Sons looms already in the mist of time, but their qualification for the group phase of the last Globe Cup demonstrated what they’re capable off. And so did their first half in Unter dem Linden. The poor Pallstadt defense simply got overwhelmed by their opponents, who scored quite easily. Time and time again, the assisting passes from Kakyl split them apart and especially after a slightly injured Maurer needed to be replaced by Sebastian Poel, the gates went wide open. In the second half, the visibly satisfied Numa players contended themselves with the entertainment of the crowd and Kauppi even managed to save the face from Blau-Weiss with a exquisite screamer. The trip to Attereg wasn’t much fun either. The Numa defence didn’t leave a single inch of space for David the Heroic nor Pelzner and the only near-decent opportunity was easily picked up by Sharnis Aylkee. In the end, Blau-Weiss was happy to get away with three goals.


Play-off Round

Eau Claire Aris FC - Bengtsmark IF 4-1
(67’ X, 81’ X, 85’ X, 90’ X --- 52’ Mattisson)
Bengtsmark IF – Eau Claire Aris FC 1-4
(88’ Naess --- 17’ X, 34’ X, 66’ X, 80’ X)

With Eau Claire Aris FC, Bengtsmark encountered a Darmeni side that could rely already on a vast amount of experience. Qualified as runner-up for the Champions’ Cup preliminaries, their road to glory had been cut short by Aels’ Pentref-y-bae, but the Darmeni side was determined to repeat their glorious GC43-run, when they’ve worked their way through the group stage. The opponent on their path knew that Aris was most known for their strong defense, delivering the lion’s share of the back line of the national side, a World Cup regular. No wonder that, despite continuous efforts, Mattisson couldn’t find a hole in between Vue, Rydzik, Goodwin and Hollands in the first half. However, the sky went clear when, only a few minutes after the half-time tea, a crosspass from Harald Naess found the long attacker, allowing him to head the ball past the inexperienced goalie. The sign for Eau Claire to defend their domestic honour and within minutes, they had Bengtsmark nailed to their own goal. All went relatively well, until Jarnefelt slammed the ball in the penalty area with only ten minutes left on the clock. Eau Claire went on to demolish Bengtsmark, a punch in the face they clearly weren’t recovered off a week later. In the Havssidan, Eau Claire dominated the game with flair, executing any dream left for the Mullsphaller team about the qualifying round. A late goal by Naess didn’t even save their honour.


Qualifying Round

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – Eau Claire Aris FC 0-1
(75’ Hooper)
Eau Claire Aris FC – Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1-2
(69’ Klingensmith --- 12’ Ptak, 89’ Firecrest)

Quite a few swears were suppressed by the Viztourzys officials when acknowledging the team that stood between them and the group phase. The memories of the triumphant Darmeni side, which had easily set aside Bengtsmark in the previous round, still dangled in front of their eyes. And when the Red Machine encountered that opponent in the Novas Pylimasstadionas, they quickly discovered why Bengtsmark had fallen for this side. The football from Eau Claire might not’ve been very exciting, it was extremely effective and Viztourzys found themselves chasing an uncatchable ball. When the Darmeni found that they had worn out their opponents just enough, they started to press forward and Manuel Schmidt got quite a difficult last half hour. He did his best, but when Charmaine Hooper received a deep pass by Scott Rydzik, turned away from Bartkus and crossed the leather into the furthest corner, he had no response. With a difficult task to solve, Viztourzys made the trip to Rushmore. However, a moment of magic happened to them when Jochen Ptak caught Trevor Goodwin off guard. He dribbled the All Green and deposited the ball next to the flailing arms of the goalie. Hopes and tension were rising and the always-cool-and-clever Eau Claire side started to worry about them pesky Buyanese. When Klingensmith scored the equalizer, a sigh of relief went around the stadium, the job appeared to be done but Viztourzys showed how they’ve grown over the last few years. With good spirit and guts, they kept the ball at the attacking side of the pitch, but few chances were created. It wasn’t until defender Firecrest, in a desperate effort to turn things around, hoofed the ball into the box. Much to everybody’s surprise, the ball bounced over and under a few legs and before someone could actually touch it, the crystal pony had scored one of the most important goals in club history for the Red Machine.


Group Stage: Group I

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – Forest Hill FC 3-2
(37’ Ptak, 67’ K. Lupeikis, 78’ Lammerschon --- 12’ X, 42’ X)
1896 Ebor – Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0-1
(15’ Daukas)
SC Cascadia – Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1-1
(29’ Ptak --- 74’ X)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – SC Cascadia 4-0
(38’ Bartkus, 56’ Daukas, 77’ Daukas, 92’ Egilius)
Forest Hill FC – Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1-1
(9’ Daukas --- 83’ X)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – 1896 Ebor 0-0

What a draw. Coming out of the fourth pot, Viztourzys knew they would encounter three sides with quite a tradition behind them, but this were indeed the kind of opponents that make you excel. First of all, there was a representative of the Mytanar Top League. The most glorious days from 1896 Ebor indeed lie quite a few decades behind us and there hasn’t been any silverware recently, but 1896 still can be seen as a major team in the League. After a few lesser mid-table years, this former Cygnus Cup finalist made its return in the Globe Cup. No surprise as die Nordmanner made some big investments with the addition of goalgetter Nils Ingebregtsen and Sicoutian defender Neil Kent, which clearly paid off. From the infamous nation of 95X, SC Cascadia joined the dance. The eternal counterpart to SC Oceanside domestically, this team that usually resides in the Cascadia Bank Stadium is a great name in UICA football, having qualified for the Globe Cup quarterfinals on the penultimate occasion. Although a second domestic title might be their main target this season, as they showed that they can deliver even without Evan Edwards. To complete the group, Forest Hill FC was drawn out of the pot by some UICA official. They compete in the Elite League in their regular hours, do I need to say more? Although they do come out of a second division spell, they participated in the quarterfinals of the penultimate Champions Cup, a year after making the SBCC semis. It’s clear that this side can always deliver a little more when facing international opponents.

Despite the glorious names of their opponents, Viztourzys took on the challenge with pride and courage. One wouldn’t predict a good result after one half of play in the Novas Pylimas, with Forest Hill one goal up despite a fine volley by Ptak. But in the second half, Viztourzys managed to keep the Jasĭyun side away from Schmidt’s goal. Lupeikis got a nice curve on his shot and Lammerschon became the king of the evening when keeping his head together in the box. While some figured this was just a lucky shot, the Red Machine topped the table after two games, a position they wouldn’t give away anymore. In the Oluja Stadion, central defenders Bartkus and Firecrest played an impressive game after an early opening goal by Vincas Daukas. Dzala Ertobashia got near an equalizer, but the linesman decided otherwise, much to the dislike of Die Nordmanner. Viztourzys couldn’t make it a threepeat when playing in the Bank Stadium, SC Cascadia kept a point at home but things were looking bright.

No wonder that the Novas Pylimasstadionas, getting enlarged with an eye on the Campionato Esportiva, was packed for the fourth game, one that could already decide upon qualification. The opponents from 95X fell one man short early on and would carry that along. Bartkus opened from the penalty point and from that moment onwards, Viztourzys let the outnumbered Cascadians attack, using the counter effectively themselves. Youngster Paro Egilius decided upon the harsh 4-0 result. With the pressure off their backs, the Red Machine continued at a high level of play but the long season started to cause some poorer moments. After an early goal, they needed to leave the ball to Forest Hill and were lucky to get away with a draw. And 1896 Ebor could’ve claimed more than a scoreless draw, but the referee looked the other way when Ruotsalainen worked Ingebregtsen to the ground. Without a single loss, Viztourzys qualified for the first knock-out round...


First knockout round

Yuba United – Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1-0
(47’ X)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – Yuba United 2-4
(22’ Ptak, 75’ Zemaitis --- 31’ X, 38’ X, 42’ X, 79’ X)

... but only to encounter Yuba United. You’ve got great names, you’ve got timeless titans, but this is the genuine Club of the Century. The club museum of the Capitalizt SLANI based squad contains, amongst a gigantic list of domestic silverware, six Champions’ Cups, one Globe Cup and four Super Cups. We’re not even going to start about their Aeropag Invitationals, AOCL title or other honours. No wonder the Red Machine entered Alesanka Park with shaking knees, seeing how close to 150.000 supporters backed their Silver-Blues. Yuba dominated the game under the inspiring leadership of Valanoran legend Esy va Drake, but couldn’t get further than a slim lead. The contrast with the Nova Pylimasstadionas, looking much like a construction lot –mainly due to being one at the time- couldn’t be greater and once again it was the team with the star that had possession... Until Jochen Ptak found himself completely unmarked and swung one past the surprised Yuba goalie. A miracle in the making? The dream only lasted for nine minutes, when va Drake himself evened up and by half-time, Viztourzys had to admit that their hopes had been preposterous. Zemaitis could ensure with a volley that Viztourzys had the right to leave this tournament with the head up high, having made it to the knock-out round of the Globe Cup as only side from the first preliminary, only to fall to the greatest team of all time that would go on to win the Globe Cup. Nice.

The Forty-Eighth Series B Champions’ Cup

First Preliminary Round

Sparta Torspeda – Vasal United 3-0
(Pentanen, Pettersen, Kubilius)
Vasal United – Sparta Torspeda 2-2
(Venclova, Pentanen)

Justas Brazauskas after the opening game: “I don’t think we’ll give this away. It was great to see how Pettersen and Pentanen connected, a goal and an assist each, that’s marvellous. Playing international football in our beloved Pergale Stadionas is amazing, especially after the tough season we had previously. But it’s invaluable experience, especially for our young guys like Venclova and Plovnarov. Those Sicoutimontians were good thou, we cannot afford to doze off for the away game, but if we can keep our composure, I think we’re in the next round.”


Second Preliminary Round

Welanduz Vadshult – Matulungin Rovers 6-1
(Hammargren x3, Lossching, Skulason, Sture)
Matulungin Rovers – Welanduz Vadshult 1-2
(Gelson, Sture)

Johan Hammargren following the home game: “Whether he touched me? I think he did. It wasn’t hard, I agree, but he did hamper me on route to goal, so I think it’s normal I go down. I’m not going to say it was a red card, that’s the refs call but he do was the last man... So yeah. Afterwards, it became easier, I’m very happy with my three goals. Games like this show that we’ll do great in the Top Division, we’ve got the skill needed to deal with that level.”

Laktaw FC – Sparta Torspeda 0-0
Sparta Torspeda – Laktaw FC 2-1
(Norkus, Pentanen)

Juha Pentanen after the home game: “It’s for games like this I came to the Pergale. It might not be such a large crowd as in Nalchik, but they supported us well. After the Filopine opening goal, they kept on singing. And the result was there, I must say, you never get used to scoring a winning goal. Those goosebumps when they shout your name... Priceless. We’ve had to field a few replacements, but I think they did very well. Especially Vincas Norkus, well done to him. I think the coach will continue to choose for Erik and me, but it’s good to know that there is a sub ready in case one of us gets an injury, that’s good for the atmosphere.”


Third Preliminary Round

Welanduz Vadshult – Tulamoi Travelers 1-2
(Hammargren)
Tulamoi Travelers – Welanduz Vadshult 1-1
(Brodd)

Fridtjof Odenberg after the away game: “We all knew it was a difficult task, Tulamoi had been the better side in the first leg and then you know it will be hard. The Travelers are quite an opponent, they’ve made the group stage previously, so yeah... But I think we can leave with our heads up high, we played with some risk here and almost came away with it. Their quick opening goal didn’t make us give up, we kept on going and deserved that equalizer. It fell a bit too late to really turns things around, although that shot from Dan Gelson deserved more, I believe.”

Sparta Torspeda – Munchen SV 0-5
Munchen SV – Sparta Torspeda 0-1
(Brazauskas)

Evaldas Sakalauskas after the home game: “I don’t feel like talking to the press now. We all knew that such a thing like an easy Gordonopian fixture didn’t exist but this... We’ve put in a lot of effort for this game, for the fans, both on the training ground and with video analysis, but if some guys don’t do what they’re told, the story is over. I...” sighs “I’ld better stop here, before I say stupid things.”

Eagles FC – Slask Pruzniwczo 1-2
Slask Pruzniwczo – Eagles FC 3-0

Ernest Placzwo after the away game: “Marvellous, simply marvellous. The fact we didn’t get through the Interregional Play-offs has been a disappointment for us, but on the other hand, we knew we left there with pride, none of the three teams that plays in the Top Division now managed to beat us after all. So we’ve done what we always, we sticked together and than this result against an Iturributa side... Splendid.”


Play-off round

City of Steel – Slask Pruzniwczo 3-0
Slask Pruzniwczo – City of Steel 4-2

Maxim Dziuba after the away game: “When Ernest scored the second one, we really hoped for a miracle to happen for a second, but then came those two goals in quick succession... But we’re not complaining. Don’t forget that only two seasons ago, we were still loitering in some local Baskin league, right now we can say we’ve travelled to Rushmore and Greater Dienstad to play football... That’s marvellous. I know some people said I should’ve accepted the offer from Garbarnia, but I’m confident I made the right decision. With Slask, we’re aiming at another title in the Second Division and who knows where that might lead us.”

The Twenty-Sixth Cup Winners' Cup

Preliminary Round

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – Brownsville FC 2-0
(38’ Daukas, 77’ Lammerschon)
Brownsville FC – Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0-0

With the Tejas Professional Soccer League already quite a bit underway, it was clear that Brownsville hadn’t fell in strength over the past few months. They made the same message clear when visiting a crowded Novas Pylimasstadionas. The Texacan side seemed to open the score after only fifteen minutes, but Lonnie Martinez was ruled to be off-side. Both sides continued to create opportunities, but it eventually was Daukas who opened the score with a fine volley. In the second half, the home team controlled the game with relative ease and Vridrich Lammerschon doubled up, a splendid situation to visit Brownsville. In Texacano, Viztourzys managed to keep the defense together but had to accept that the possession was for the adversary. Martinez came close to an opening goal, but Schmidt could save. A rebound was headed off the line by Bartkus and after that hot moment, the Kolektyvinis managed to keep the nil and progress to the next round of the Cygnus Cup.

First Round

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – Dwile Warriors 0-1
(74’ Ularu)
Dwile Warriors – Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2-1
(12’ Toivainen, 82’ Carvalho --- 57’ K. Lupeikis)

With the Dwile Warriors, Viztourzys was up against a fierce opponent. Strengthened with Astograthian Ibarran and relying on a great deal of experience, the Blue Bears have the capacity to compete for the title in the highly valued Apoxian National League. As they were in the lead domestically, confidence wouldn’t be the problem for this triple champion. Manager Frew send his usual 3-4-3 down the pitch and it soon became clear that that was problematic for the Viztourzys side. Daukas and Ptak were in the firm grip of Forster, Cassandra and Endicott and couldn’t be reached, while the Dwile midfield kept possession. With the score still tied, but only due to a great performance of the defenders, Zarnevidis added Lovas to stop the cascade of attacks, but it would be no use. Even to the contrary, the only goal of the match was marked by Keri Ularu, the all-important away goal in UICA football was made by the Apoxian international. The Red Machine knew what the harsh task would be in the APX Sports Stadium, but Toivainen immediately splintered all aspirations. It wasn’t until the second half that Viztourzys could present a proper answer, when a shot by Lupeikis hit the leg from Jack Forster and caught Hewitt on the wrong foot. For a few minutes, Viztourzys seemed on their way for a miracle, but the Dwile defense played it cool. In an all-or-nothing from Zarnevidis, attacker Liepa joined the battle instead of defender Firecrest, but this backfired when Carvalho made the decisive goal for the Warriors.

Second Preliminary Round

Bengtsmark IF – Northern Union 2-0
(4’ Schi, 41’ Mattisson)

Edvald Mattisson: “It was an advantage we could play at home and not in Pavonia, but I still feel we were simply the better side. We knew Chaucer was the man we needed to look for but Jonas did a splendid job today, I don’t think he gave away an inch of space. The early goal certainly made it a lot easier for us, a nice one from Schi but it was a very difficult first half. Of course I’m satisfied with my goal, a nice assisting pass from Sico, that’s how I like them. But the most important thing is that we qualify.”


First Round

Bengtsmark IF – Telino 2-3
(47’ Maniche, 82’ Naess --- 12’ Fairclough, 14’ Mynatt, 65’ Rios)

Jonas Paulsson: “This really is a disappointment, we fell that Telino should be the kind of opponent we could challenge, so this is a real uppercut. Our first half was simply dreadful, we couldn’t control Fairclough and Hackett, to be fair. Thumbs up to Piaczmarski, he gave us a fighting chance and when Maniche scored it seemed as if things were going the right way. The Havssidan came behind us but than that header by Onesime Rios... It shouldn’t happen, as simple as that. We’ve trained on corners for this encounter and than this...”

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – IF Petershavn 4-0
(25’ Daukas, 59’ Ptak, 87’ Zemaitis, 92’ Liepa)

Danilius Wreczius: “It went less smooth than the result would make you suspect, let’s not forget that. That safe from Schmidt was necessary and then Daukas scores on the counterattack, textbook build-up that one. But it is still a good run, Petershavn was defensively solid but after that opening goal, we disallowed them the build-up. In the dying minutes they played all or nothing, and it was all for us. We’re on a roll internationally, especially with the stadium behind us like today.”


Second Round

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – Deportivo Nespa 1-0
(67’ Navickas)

Kazys Navickas: “We never really got in our usual rhytm, Deportiva’s coach, Rick Martinez, had done his homework. And we couldn’t afford to go into attack too much, we know from their league that Nespa is a team that can score from all corners. Especially Jervin Datu was a real threat today, I don’t want to think how things would’ve gone of Schmidt didn’t get a fingertip to his shot. But ok, all is said and done and we’ve got the victory. I’ve got to thank Jochen for his assist, you seldom see a goalgetter who’s clever enough to note a guy behind him, but his backheel was splendid for us today.”


Quarterfinals

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – Matthew City Rangers 2-0
(74’ Ptak, 88’ Bartkus)

Bronius Bartkus: “We often let the tackled one take the penalty, but Jochen said he wasn’t up for it. I think it is my duty as captain to take the ball then and slam it past Ealovir. That Vanorian might’ve picked the right corner, but I knew it would go in. I think games like this show the progress our team made, you don’t beat the champion of Northern Sunrise Islands if you can’t keep up the pace for ninety minutes. I think we kept it very close, Firecrest and I, Sorensen and Dandenault are fine attackers but we didn’t worry.“


Semi-finals

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – SC Montfort 2-3
(18’ Daukas, 77’ Halmiini --- 29’ Jozic, 37’ Thompson, 44’ Xabanaxaspatrua)

Manuel Schmidt: “This is very disappointing, a final would be the crown on a perfect international season and now we stand here with almost empty hands... That’s hard. I can’t say I’m satisfied with our performance today, we started well, not too attacking but after Daukas’ goal, it all went wrong. One would expect we’ve grown mature enough over the season to be clever and play it till the last whistle, but we simply allowed the Royals back into the game and then you know it will be difficult. That first goal, that’s just poor positioning and at the corner, Xanaba... Xabasca... that defender was just left completely unmarked. A disgrace, I dare to say, for a team like ours, but ok, it’s another experience for next season, I presume.”

[Buyan]

Second Division North

It’s always quite difficult to predict a series like this one. The Tjallimvarn Kickers might continue on their fairly splendid pace from the Cup while Onwards did quite an investment with the addition of Mickaelson and Joukoson, both coming from the Top Division. We’ll certainly be looking forward to the Grephel city derby between Aigil and Gryphionen, as it will hopefully bring the city more joy than the rather poor season they’ve been through last time around.

.  Second Division North  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   Pts 
 1 Onwards Hollkoping      22   12   6   4    44   22    42
 2 Tillsamman Stensund     22   10   8   4    45   30    38
 3 Grunshoffer Allianz     22   10   7   5    39   26    37
 4 AA Vadshult             22   10   5   7    35   30    35
 5 Tjallimvarn Kickers     22    9   6   7    28   26    33
 6 Forbund Bengtsmark      22    8   7   7    27   32    31
 7 Grephel Gryphionen      22    7   9   6    31   25    30
 8 FV Vannarby             22    8   6   8    27   29    30
 9 Blimt United            22    7   7   8    32   35    28
10 Quellsfeld Freunde      22    7   3  12    32   43    24
11 Aigil Grephel           22    4   6  12    21   37    18
12 Hallning Verein         22    2   6  14    25   51    12

After the departure of Welanduz Vadshult, who dominated the competition last time around, we seemed to look forward for an open competition, but Onwards Hollkoping decided otherwise. The side impresses friends and opponents with their professionalism and the results are following now. Especially the performances from Per Joukoson, considered second tier by Seura Pohkakunti, were quite impressive. By the half-way point, they had build a five-point gap over Grunshoffer, AA and Tilsamman. Tjallimvarn never came near the first spot and Aigil had a very poor season, where they lost both derbies, despite Gerald Weber scoring eleven goals. A few mid-season slip-ups allowed AA Vadshult to close the gap. The oldest football club of the nation seemed on their way to repeat the performance of big brother Welanduz last year, but lost the vital game against Hollkoping three to one, allowing Onwards to steam towards the title.


Three talents to follow...

Sigi Prinsen (Onwards Hollkoping, 19). Small yet strong, this right winger has more in store than most guys that’ve gotten professional.
Klaus Niederkirchner (Grunshoffer Allianz, 18). Has a splendid vision for his young age and can be the centre of any defense in a few years.
Stefan Hostmann (Blimt United, 16). Marked eight times in only nine games, this rascal has got the potential if he can carry the wealth.

Second Division South

Slask couldn’t materialise their victory from last time around with a ticket to the Top Division, but their adventures in the SBCC certainly strengthened the side. If they can trust again on players such as Maxim Dziuba and Ernest Placzwo, they’re back as favourites. Their main opponents lost a vital man, as Gornik Wladica can’t rely on goalgetter Konopka anymore and Ernesse needs to put a 17-year old in goal since Eckstein departed. That makes Thor Rellhovn, who lost a lot of their top players but still can present a challenging squad, the challenger for the title.

.  Second Division South  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   Pts 
 1 Slask Pruzniwczo        22   12   7   3    34   20    43
 2 Thor Rellhovn           22   12   6   4    41   23    42
 3 Gornik Wladica          22    9   6   7    24   21    33
 4 Ruch Siepoclawycz       22    8   8   6    30   32    32
 5 Ernesse Stahl           22    7  10   5    28   24    31
 6 Hretha Somlhus          22    8   6   8    34   37    30
 7 Fiarsdal Forening       22    8   5   9    24   27    29
 8 Virksomhet Stovsand     22    6   8   8    35   31    26
 9 Mirzich Jedenascie      22    7   4  11    27   29    25
10 Kaemper Norderud        22    5   9   8    19   28    24
11 Mechler Fusscollectiv   22    4   7  11    22   35    19
12 Feldhammer Havik        22    3  10   9    20   31    19

Thor Rellhovn seemed on their way to dominate this second division. During the first six games, they didn’t drop a point and only a missed penalty against Mirzich kept them from continuing that pace all the way to matchday 10. The departure of star players such as Angst, Thorkildsen, Thorup and Martinsen had urged them to allow some of their young guns a chance in the spotlight and Alexander Samlhuss, coming from Blau-Weiss, was the ideal man to give these youngsters the time of their lives. Ten points away of Hretha Somlhus and twelve of any other opposition with seven games to go, some already deemed the competition over. But then Samlhuss started to struggle again with some old injuries, some of the youngsters could keep up their initial form and the carefully build cardboard house from Hammi Nordling fell to pieces. Points were spilled against any opponent and in the background, Slask Pruzniwczo started closing down the gap. When Verner Gundersen scored the one-one in their own Mellem to Strome on the penultimate matchday, Thor seemed to have stopped the loss but a loss on the field of Virksomhet made the unthinkable happen. Slask didn’t hesitate and humiliated Fiarsdal with a 0-4, celebrating the second title in a row afterwards.


Three talents to follow...

Ib Abrahamsen (Thor Rellhovn, 22). Not that young anymore, but the playing minutes did him well. Hardworking yet with an open vision.
Maxim Dziuba (Slask Pruzniwczo, 20). Might be the greatest talent in Second Division, this wing defender with his Zemaitis-style. Will he stay?
Frederik Suhr (Hretha Somlhus, 17). It’s not often that a boy of this age can pick up the heavy task of defending midfield, but Suhr is capable.

Second Division East

Two main favourites present themselves for the title in this division. 22. Czerwiec Grozno knows they weren’t that far off last time around and replaced Kluszak with Jan Orlik, who might come out of the amateur divisions but should be evenly talented. Their opponent will be Asociacija Uraugai, that managed to keep the team together for once. If one is looking for outsiders, we’ld put an outside bet on Linnameeskond Harseni, that wants to prove themselves or JX Jurbiskis that had a splendid run in the President’s Cup.

.  Second Division East   Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   Pts 
 1 Asociacija Uraugai      20   11   3   6    33   22    36
 2 Ciegnalki Motor         20   11   3   6    31   25    36
 3 Kuinopi Club            20   11   2   7    31   29    35
 4 Siklapaa Jalkapallo     20    9   2   9    34   34    29
 5 Linnameeskond Harseni   20    8   4   8    26   30    28
 6 Pelta Union             20    7   7   6    27   28    28
 7 JX Jurbiskis            20    6   8   6    29   29    26
 8 Druzhna Rovers          20    7   4   9    26   30    25
 9 22. Czerwiec Grozno     20    7   4   9    30   25    25
10 Hattrick Zeimgava       20    5   6   9    24   29    21
11 Komanda Zaipis          20    4   5  11    27   37    17

This one went straight till the last game, but there were quite some events before that. Asociacija appeared to be the one that got out of the off-season the best at first sight, taking the lead early on. Seven games in, they had only dropped points against Hattrick Zeimgava, a rare great moment of the latter. When the competition reached its halfway point, it already was clear that Ciegnalki Motor would be their main opponent, especially as Orlik couldn’t bring the same for Grozno as Kluszak had done and JX Jurbiskis was unable to add any consistency in their game. The two contenders took turns in the lead and that should already indicate that neither could bring a long winning streak. And if you drop points, others will pick them up. Although Druzhna Rovers initially did a good attempt, it was Kuinopi Club that surprisingly could bridge the gap. The result was that, with three more fixtures on the agenda, both were within a point. No one faultered on MD20, but Asociacija only came back with a point from Siklapaa and Ciegnalki fell to Pelta on the penultimate matchday. Kuinopi two points in the lead, but they had a bye on the last day. This allowed Asociacija to grab the title after a modest 1-0 against Grozno and no fan probably bothered that it eventually came to goal difference between them and Ciegnalki.


Three talents to watch...

Arnold Rootare (Kuinopi Club, 18). Gifted left foot that gets the crowd on their feet with his rushes. If he scores some more, he’s Top material.
Francziszek Bogusz (Ciegnalki Motor, 19). His squad might have missed the title, but with a goalie like him they’ll compete for it again next season.
Valeri Salnikov (Druzhna Rovers, 17). Cannot take the pressure yet to guide a complete midfield, but he has swift moves and a mean kick.

[Buyan]

First Half of the Season

Matchday 1

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0–0 Tjelberg Forening
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2–0 IFK Pollmarnang (29’ Halmiini, 74’ Daukas)
Haljo Vannarby 2–1 Welanduz Vadshult (9’ Porcin, 33’ Stown, 84’ Gelson)
Bengtsmark IF 0–1 Pajukas Sport (85’ Vilkas)
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–1 Seura Pohkakunti (23’ Sihvola)
Jottnar Kallsmudden 1–1 Sparta Torspeda (13’ Dalmshelf, 53’ Pentanen)

The pundits talked about four sides that would compete for the title, but only one of them managed to come through the very first matchday without a scratch. Viztourzys showed that their performance in the Cup was just a hick-up and overpowered IFK on all fields. Only a fine game of the new central duo for the Hikers prevented worse. Blau-Weiss couldn’t convince in their own Unter dem Linden and the same goes for Jottnar, that dominated in the first half but have it away quite easily, resulting in Mytanar Juha Pentanen scoring his first goal and Sparta their first point in the competition. The worst result was for Bengtsmark, that couldn’t find a goal in the Pajukas defense and eventually got caught by a splendid combination between Gudaitis and Vilkas, resulting in a goal of the latter.

3. Palle Angst. Despite standing underneath a new crossbar, he kept everything out that the Heroic and Pelzner hurled at him.
2. Zooey Stown. Seems to overcome the initial rumours that she wasn’t fit for the task with a top-class performance.
Man of the Week. Vincas Daukas. The fact that Sirius Hope, the national manager, left him on the bench at all times during the latest international confrontations might’ve hurt the striker, but he responds the way we know him, with a load of goals.


Matchday 2

Tjelberg Forening 0–1 Sparta Torspeda (77’ Pentanen)
Seura Pohkakunti 1–3 Jottnar Kallsmudden (23’ Stacks, 44’ Dalmshelf, 53’ Teuchert, 84’ Dalmshelf)
Pajukas Sport 0–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Welanduz Vadshult 1–4 Bengtsmark IF (9’ Hammargren, 34’ Cedar, 57’ Mattisson, 65’ Schi, 83’ Ullsmang)
IFK Pollmarnang 2–0 Haljo Vannarby (34’ Havelund, 72’ Pérez)
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (67’ Daukas)

In the first real top fixture of the competition, it’s Viztourzys that once again takes the victory. The Red Machine had a hesitating first half and David the Heroic came quite close to an opening goal, but after the break it was all red-and-black and very little blau-and-weiss. Vincas Daukas was once again the goalgetter. Bengtsmark IF seemed on its way to an evenly poor opening of the season as Pallstadt, but when coach Markushovn directed Cedar a bit more to the side and Zwangzugian Tullio Schi as the lynchpin, Bengtsmark started to get around and Welanduz saw all corners of the pitch. In the shadows, Jottnar, Sparta and IFK take their first victory of the season.

3. Duco Dalmshelf. One starts to wonder why he was on the bench so often, he scores so easily
2. Ulle Seber. His team seems to have trouble to adjust, but Seber might be what saves them this season.
Man of the Week. Tullio Schi. It’s not often that one man simply alters the game with his presence, but Schi did so this time. Apart from his goal, he was most remark with his splendid passes that always reached the outside men. The question remains how Cedar will respond to the new king of the Havssidan.


Matchday 3

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2–2 Tjelberg Forening (18’ Asmussen, 44’ Ptak, 82’ Navickas, 89’ Moen)
Haljo Vannarby 0–0 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Bengtsmark IF 3–3 IFK Pollmarnang (12’ Pérez, 31’ Havelund, 49’ Mattisson, 51’ Poluceck, 74’ Schi, 92’ Maniche)
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–1 Welanduz Vadshult (54’ Lossching)
Jottnar Kallsmudden 1–0 Pajukas Sport (29’ Svendsen)
Sparta Torspeda 1–0 Seura Pohkakunti (22’ Kubilius)

The maximum score of the Red Machine was toppled today and Tjelberg was the culprit. The game started off reasonably well for Viztourzys, dominating the opening minutes, but a goal from Asmussen immediately made clear that Tjelberg hadn’t come to Novas Pylimas to stand by the sideline. It took a lot of hard work to set things straight, with a key role for Eero Halmiini, but Sil Moen had the last laugh with a majestic chip over the head off Schmidt. This allows Jottnar to join them in the lead after a tight home game. The third top dog is the less expected Sparta Torspeda, which acts as a real block with a set of dangerous strikers in front of them. Less satisfied fans in the Havssidan, where Bengtsmark once again struggled to get a proper first half on the table. Their fellow islanders had happier days, as Haljo scrounged an unexpected point against Blau-Weiss, while Welanduz could celebrate their first victory in the Top Division against a discouraged Garbarnia.

3. Marcos Pérez. The Guayabalan appears to be an addition to our competition, with gravel in his guts and a spit in the eye.
2. Sil Moen. Few said his transfer to Tjelberg would turn into a flop, but Moen seems ready to show all otherwise.
Man of the Week. Anders Bergh. He’s still the main man for our national team and he showed us why he’s still keeping Ulle Seber and Jan Erhardt on the bench today. His reflexes haven’t gone any worse since he turned thirty and as frustrating as it was for Vilkas and Gudaitis, they couldn’t get past this human wall.


Matchday 4

Tjelberg Forening 1–1 Seura Pohkakunti (19’ Sihvola, 66’ Kubik)
Pajukas Sport 1–0 Sparta Torspeda (84’ Vilkas)
Welanduz Vadshult 2–1 Jottnar Kallsmudden (24’ Sture, 77’ Hammargren, 84’ Stacks)
IFK Pollmarnang 1–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko (4’ Havelund)
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0–2 Bengtsmark IF (13’ Mattisson, 44’ Schi)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2–0 Haljo Vannarby (59’ Daukas, 84’ Lammerschon)

The grey skies just turned black for Blau-Weiss. If you would’ve expected your squad to contest for the title, you can’t be satisfied with two points out of four games. Especially the way Bengtsmark overpowered Blau-Weiss today made the fans boo, there was no movement and little danger. Ole Schau, who took the attacking midfield spot again hasn’t exactly convinced many and the supporters would like to see Kluszak, who lead the team to the Cup, retake his spot. In the meanwhile, Markushovn reinstated the traditional 4-5-1, with Naess and Ohlin behind three creative midfields. This meant that Magnus Cedar needed to take the left wing, much against his liking, but the result was great. In other fields, we noted how Viztourzys becomes the sole leader again after a quality performance against Haljo as Jottnar tripped surprisingly against Vadshult. Jottnar could blame a few injuries, but still knew that you need to win games like that to contest the title. The Valneda derby between Pajukas and the Orange Brigade was for the home team, Gabrielius Vilkas was the hero of the day.

3. Gabrielius Vilkas. Few voices mention him when the national attackers are discussed, but Vilkas has a nose for goals.
2. Bronius Bartkus. With Firecrest by his side, Bartkus has grown to an even higher level, cleaning it all up in front of Schmidt.
Man of the Week. Edvald Mattisson. Things are finally starting to go his way, after scoring a goal in the interland against Olastor, he adds another one to his resume this weekend. Said he’ll challenge Daukas for the topscorer title and we actually can see this manmade tower grab the Golden Boot this time.


Matchday 5

Haljo Vannarby 1–0 Tjelberg Forening (77’ Stown)
Bengtsmark IF 3–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (4’ Naess, 56’ Mattisson, 73’ Ptak, 88’ Mattisson)
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–1 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt (35’ the Heroic)
Jottnar Kallsmudden 3–1 IFK Pollmarnang (9’ Dalmshelf, 25’ Chao, 49’ Konarski, 84’ Ladsell)
Sparta Torspeda 2–2 Welanduz Vadshult (17’ Pentanen, 38’ Edgren, 59’ Venclova, 78’ Hammargren)
Seura Pohkakunti 1–1 Pajukas Sport (13’ Anselm, 34’ Kuusi)

All eyes on the Havssidanstadion tonight, as Viztourzys could hand out the first big punch in the battle for the title. However, that turned out quite different as Bengtsmark quickly opened the score through international Harald Naess. Although the Kolektyvinis could claim quite a few chances at an equalizer, amongst which a header by Navickas held by Saldlund on the line, it would be Bengtsmark that scored another one, paving the road to the first place. Sighs of relief in Pallstadt, as Old Guardian David the Heroic ensured them a much-hoped for victory, but it pushed Garbarnia even more in a dirty corner. No goals, one point and four losses with one-nil and a nasty injury for Lothar Szylarsz, it doesn’t seem to be the season of the Tanners. Jottnar joins Bengtsmark in the lead after a clear win over Pollmarnang, if it hadn’t been for the woodwork this one would’ve been six-one.

3. Zooey Stown. With Bengt Hakansson on the sin bin, she received the captain’s ribbon and showed us why.
2. Edvald Mattisson. Seems to be in the form of his life, scores from every corner and with every foot lately.
Man of the Weekend. Slawko Konarski. Not one bad word about Chao, who often was the light point in dark times last season, but they really missed someone like Konarski in the Vingardarena in 2015. The former Garbarnia player has top-class vision, prime timing and manages to grab his goal from time to time.


Matchday 6

Tjelberg Forening 0–0 Pajukas Sport
Welanduz Vadshult 1–1 Seura Pohkakunti (24’ Sihvola, 88’ Aalberg)
IFK Pollmarnang 5–3 Sparta Torspeda (9’ Havelund, 23’ Brazauskas, 42’ Pérez, 56’ Pentanen, 59’ Bergmark, 66’ Pettersen, 79’ Havelund, 90’ S. Lundgren)
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 3–0 Jottnar Kallsmudden (29’ Hueppe, 83’ Kluszak, 88’ Pelzner)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 3–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko (9’ Martinsen, 44’ K. Lupeikis, 74’ Daukas, 79’ Daukas)
Haljo Vannarby 0–3 Bengtsmark IF (2’ Mattisson, 54’ Ohlin, 89’ Maniche)

With Piotr Kluszak, it seems that Blau-Weiss have found their new hero. The scruffy Serkauer was the director in a splendid performance by Pallstadt against a mesmorized Jottnar. Kallsmudden tried to turn things around late in the game with the return of the previously injured Henryk Konopka in the role of third attacker, but a few crosspasses from Kluszak decided otherwise. In Novas Pylimas, the Tanners were on their way to a stunt for half an hour, but in money time, it became clear how lethal Vincas Daukas can be. Less good news for Viztourzys is a minor injury for Ptak. The Kolektyvinis continues to share the lead with Bengtsmark, that easily won the traditional derby in the A. Holmarena, Haljo simply wasn’t where it’s at today. In the background, we note how Tjelberg still hasn’t scored their first victory, while newcomers Welanduz and Sparta perform well according to all standards, sharing the sixth place.

3. Krister Lundgren. The IFK captain was the lynchpin for his team in a very attractive game.
2. Vincas Daukas. We’ll be honest, we simply like an attacker who doesn’t hesitate to shoot when he gets the opportunity.
Man of the Weekend. Piotr Kluszak. Only a few months ago, he performed for 22. Czerwiec Grozno, now he’s becoming one of the future stars of Buyanese football. However, he’ll have the heavy task to keep Blau-Weiss a good unit, a task which previously has broken the shoulders of Samlhuss, Goretzka and Schau...


Matchday 7

Bengtsmark IF 1–0 Tjelberg Forening (75’ Ullsmang)
Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–2 Haljo Vannarby (19’ Martinek, 55’ Sundqvist, 84’ Ostlund)
Jottnar Kallsmudden 0–0 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Sparta Torspeda 3–2 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt (23’ Pettersen, 36’ Pelzner, 54’ the Heroic, 82’ Pentanen, 91’ Pentanen)
Seura Pohkakunti 1–1 IFK Pollmarnang (24’ Havelund, 77’ Paruolevi)
Pajukas Sport 1–0 Welanduz Vadshult (70’ Gudaitis)

The major game of the weekend was scheduled in the Vingardarena, but the fans came home hungry, thanks to Manuel Schmidt. A screamer from Stacks, a header from Dalmshelf, a free kick from Konarski or a chip from Konopka, nothing got past the keeper from the Red Machine. No answer from Daukas, who was in the firm grip of Vansholt. Blau-Weiss, on the other hand, couldn’t keep up the impression from their previous game when facing Sparta Torspeda, as they fell to the wrath of Juha Pentanen. This caused Bengtsmark to be the big winner of the weekend, but they had to give all they had to keep Tjelberg behind. It’s hard to understand that the Forening only avoids the last place due to the crisis in Garbarnia these days, as their gameplay as more than fine. In Hoyersko, in the meanwhile, some voices would like to see Libanovich leave as they’re already six points shy of the tenth spot, the spot of salvation. In the meanwhile, we note how Pajukas silently moves up, having only conceded two goals so far.

3. Noel Amundsen. Pajukas might not play the most attractive football of them all, it’s effective and this man is the cornerstone.
2. Manuel Schmidt. The German American is always in the running for a Golden Glove here, but has to accept that he falls to third in line for his nation, behind Klopp an Rommelwald.
Man of the Weekend. Juha Pentanen. When they asked this Mytanar at the border why he came to Buyan, business or pleasure, he probably answered “Business. Goal-scoring business.” Boy, can that man score. He’s got the people in the Pergale on his hand already and the rest of the land seems to follow.


Matchday 8

Tjelberg Forening 0–0 Welanduz Vadshult
IFK Pollmarnang 2–1 Pajukas Sport (14’ Vilkas, 39’ Pérez, 55’ Havelund)
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 5–2 Seura Pohkakunti (6’ Milosevici, 14’ the Heroic, 23’ Boger, 31’ the Heroic, 43’ Sihvola, 77’ Kuusi, 83’ Kroempf)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 5–4 Sparta Torspeda (33’ Zemaitis, 42’ Plovnarov, 55’ Lammerschon, 72’ Daukas, 74’ Pentanen, 77’ Ptak, 84’ Pettersen, 88’ Venclova, 92’ Ptak)
Haljo Vannarby 1–0 Jottnar Kallsmudden (13’ Ostlund)
Bengtsmark IF 3–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko (41’ Schi, 77’ Maniche, 83’ Mattisson)

Bengtsmark really has the proverbial wind in their evenly proverbial sails as they’ve amassed already their sixth victory of the season. Garbarnia was the victim and the soulless play caused an ultimatum for coach Libanovich: points next week or another gaffer. In the Novas Pylimasstadionas, Viztourzys had a lot more trouble against their neighbours from Torspeda. Although all seemed well, leading by two goals with fifteen minutes left on the clock, Sparta fired itself on and came near a miracle. Ptak could ensure the three points for his team, but the neutral fans certainly enjoy the gutsiness with which Torspeda goes through this league. Blau-Weiss might have found the right rhythm, scoring five times against Seura but we wonder whether they’ll repeat that against a better goalie than Kundrotas. For the second week in a row, Jottnar was the better side but fell to a superior goalkeeper, so this leaves a surprising IFK Pollmarnang in third place. The Hikers seem to have found a better balance now Pérez and Ladsell dictate the law in midfield and Elmo Havelund is still an assurance for goals.

3. Bruno Hawke. The New Sideburnese goalie struggled a bit in the Cup, but his hard work is paying off and the Haljo fans like his sober but reliable style.
2. Jochen Ptak. Many wondered whether last year’s revelation could bring the same quality in a top team, but he starts to find the road to the goal.
Man of the Weekend. David the Heroic. We’re not only crowning this Old Guardian international over his goals, which show how smooth he made the move from third tier, but mainly due to the way he carries the attack now Pelzner and Kauppi struggle with their form. Potential top scorer, anyone?


Matchday 9

Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–1 Tjelberg Forening (72’ Jespersen)
Jottnar Kallsmudden 2–2 Bengtsmark IF (25’ Dalmshelf, 35’ Stacks, 74’ Ullsmang, 79’ Mattisson)
Sparta Torspeda 2–3 Haljo Vannarby (12’ Stown, 43’ Pentanen, 66’ Mamontovas, 77’ Porcin, 88’ Ostlund)
Seura Pohkakunti 0–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (39’ Navickas)
Pajukas Sport 0–1 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt (56’ Helm)
Welanduz Vadshult 0–1 IFK Pollmarnang (84’ Ladsell)

The favourite score of the week clearly was nil against one and only one team could keep a point at home. It even seemed that Jottnar would make it a victory in their Vingardarena, but an unnecessary red card for Ola Wiig smashed their achilles’ heel and eventually they had to thank Bergh that it became a draw. The result did allow Viztourzys to join their Mullsphaller counterpart at the summit of the table, a penalty goal by Navickas was enough to triumph in Pohkakunti. Another man who could lift his hands in the air was Daniel Jespersen. A phlegmatic goalgetter twelve months ago, but now he struggled time and time again. He finally got one past a goalie, the unfortunate Seber, and could deliver Tjelberg their first one. With the same, he also sealed the deal for Libanovich, he’s leaving the Aleja Lipowa for now. We also note how Mullsphall dominates the ranks as both IFK Pollmarnang and Haljo Vannarby park in Globe Cup ticket spots at the moment.

3. Firecrest. This Crystal Pony had to deal with quite some negativity at first, but he showed that equine players have a spot in this competition.
2. Stefan Ladsell. Demonstrates week by week why they call him a major talent and doesn’t hesitate to step forward when his team needs him.
Man of the Weekend. Sil Moen. Few could understand why he, if he’ld leave Jottnar behind, didn’t opt for large sums of money abroad instead of the unsure Forening project, especially after their poor start in terms of results. But Moen kept on backing his teammates and manager Heibye and might be right after all.


Matchday 10

Tjelberg Forening 0–0 IFK Pollmarnang
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 3–2 Welanduz Vadshult (19’ Kluszak, 23’ Gelson, 44’ Pelzner, 77’ the Heroic, 79’ Skarsgard)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0–0 Pajukas Sport
Haljo Vannarby 6–3 Seura Pohkakunti (14’ Ostlund, 23’ Rydell, 38’ Ostlund, 54’ Stown, 56’ Ostlund, 69’ Ostlund, 74’ Sihvola, 80’ Kaapri, 85’ Goretzka)
Bengtsmark IF 2–1 Sparta Torspeda (19’ Mattisson, 73’ Paulson, 92’ Plovnarov)
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–3 Jottnar Kallsmudden (13’ Chao, 56’ Dalmshelf, 69’ Konopka)

Bengtsmark regains its position with a solid performance against a fierce Sparta Torspeda. However, how long will things continue to go well for the Yellows as Cedar didn’t enjoy a week on the bench instead of the more docile Ralph Husson? The Viztourzys game was a lot less attractive, Tomascevicius had sent his game into the pitch to keep the nil and they did so. Apoxian Amundsen, Felixian Anselm and local Paleckis formed an unbeatable second wall and Viztourzys was lucky that a shot by Gudaitis didn’t get further than the crossbar. In the meanwhile, Blau-Weiss and Jottnar open the attack for the GC spots. While Jottnar had an easy day in the Aleja Lipowa, where they still search for a new manager, Blau-Weiss had to struggle till the last second to beat Welanduz, where Dan Gelson shows himself an addition to the highest level. But the spectacle of the weekend was noted in the A. Holmarena, where both Haljo and Seura decided to act without any hesitations and presented a quick and exciting game to the fans, larded with nine goals.

3. Kersten Thorup. Previously lauded for his rushes, he has taught in less than four months how to defend in line. Promising for the future.
2. Slawko Konarski. He could, or even should, show a bit more consistency, but when in form he can make both Chao and Stacks better players.
Man of the Weekend. Daniel Ostlund. A hattrick is a seldom feature but scoring four times in a single game is a unique given in the Buyanese Top Division. Ostlund is an attacker who knows exactly what he’s capable off... And what not. With the right support, this is a very fine striker.


Matchday 11

Jottnar Kallsmudden 0–0 Tjelberg Forening
Sparta Torspeda 0–2 Garbarnia Hoyersko (77’ Ernstell, 84’ Martinsen)
Seura Pohkakunti 0–2 Bengtsmark IF (11’ Mattisson, 64’ Schi)
Pajukas Sport 1–0 Haljo Vannarby (23’ Gudaitis)
Welanduz Vadshult 0–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (83’ Ruotsalainen)
IFK Pollmarnang 2–3 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt (18’ Poluceck, 26’ the Heroic, 43’ Barcon, 48’ Maurer, 84’ I. Lundgren)

Most eyes were on the Ravnar derby between Jottnar and Tjelberg, but the latter once again opted for a defensive strategy, with Kubik, Zermin and Riel smothering Stacks, Chao and Konarski, resulting in a poor game with eleven yellow cards. The best opportunity was for Ostergaard but the post decided otherwise. In the top of the league, this remains an easy run for Bengtsmark that grabbed another threepointer thanks to the duo Schi and Mattisson. Viztourzys remains near, they had to fight till the last second to break through Welanduz which had added a fifth defender for the occasion. Lone striker Hammargren almost caused a drama but it was Arto Ruotsalainen, the unremarkable right defender of the Red Machine who scored. In an interesting duel in the subtop, the victory was for Blau-Weiss who also move past Haljo Vannarby, as the latter couldn’t drag a point out of the Bokstasstadion.

3. Quinten Zermin. One might disagree with the Tjelberg scheme, but few Buyanese have perfected the defensive midfield like Zermin.
2. Ivan Gudaitis. It took his time before he had adapted to Top Division football, but it seems that he has found his spot next to Vilkas now.
Man of the Weekend. Bartosz Hlawiczka. We usually leave this spot for players, but the new manager from Garbarnia deserves a word. Former goalie and eternal club monument, Hlawiczka focussed on a good organisation with Jachowski as additional lock on the door. Not attractive, but Garbarnia needed points and even more, some hope.

Halfway table

...Top Division             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   Pts 
 1 Bengtsmark IF             11    8   2   1    25    9    26
 2 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis   11    7   3   1    18   10    24
 3 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt      11    6   2   3    18   12    20
 4 Haljo Vannarby            11    6   1   4    15   15    19
 5 IFK Pollmarnang           11    5   3   3    18   16    18
 6 Jottnar Kallsmudden       11    4   4   3    14   11    16
 7 Pajukas Sport             11    4   4   3     6    5    16
 8 Sparta Torspeda           11    3   2   6    18   23    11
 9 Tjelberg Forening         11    1   7   3     4    6    10
10 Welanduz Vadshult         11    2   3   6    10   16     9
11 Seura Pohkakunti          11    1   4   6    11   22     7
12 Garbarnia Hoyersko        11    1   1   9     4   16     4

Nothing is decided yet, but it appears that there will be two dogs for the major bone. Bengtsmark IF has arguably shown themselves the best side of the Buyanese Top Division so far, demonstrating their dominance with attractive powerplay. Saldlund found his spot so far in a rather unspectacular defense but the midfield is being top class and Mattisson bursts with selfassurance. Things aren’t going as smooth for Viztourzys as for them, but two points can hardly be named a gap. The renewed defense is stubborn and while Ptak and Daukas don’t find each other as easily at all occasions, there is potential. The only question will be whether the midfield can cope with the heavy schedule, larded with Globe Cup football as Halmiini is out on a depression and Navickas drops in and out an injury.
Pallstadt had a poor start, but all that is forgotten by now as David the Heroic dragged his team towards a third place. Behind him, the two Mullsphaller teams are doing very well. Zooey Stown made Haljo quite an attractive site and Pollmarnangs’ goal machine Havelund is better supported than last year. They keep Jottnar in a rather poor sixth spot, Chao-Konarski-Stacks is amongst the most attractive midfields we can imagine but there’s too much pressure on Wiig to keep the balance. The last side which still is joining the fight over the Globe Cup tickets is Pajukas Sport, which chose for a realistic defensive approach.
Sparta Torspeda is certainly one of the revelations of the season, as their strikers keep on setting stadiums on fire. But it hasn’t always resulted in points so far, a feeling that is familiar to Tjelberg as well. The All-Purples played quite well, but couldn’t find the goal as often as they’ld like, winning only one game. On the brink of the relegation zone, we find Welanduz Vadshult, a team that had some pretty decent showings but remains one of the weaker side. Yet, their goals might be just enough to hold on. The same goes for Seura Pohkakunti, but their older defense is quite leaky and they’ve received quite a few blow-outs. In last position, we surprisingly find Garbarnia Hoyersko. The Tanners had an awful time so far, but with their new coach, the sky seems the limit.

Topscorers

9 goals: Edvald Mattisson (Bengtsmark IF)
8 goals: Juha Pentanen (Sparta Torspeda)
7 goals: Elmo Havelund (IFK Pollmarnang), Duco Dalmshelf (Jottnar Kallsmudden)
6 goals: Daniel Ostlund (Haljo Vannarby), David the Heroic (Blau-Weiss Pallstadt)
5 goals: Vincas Daukas (Viztourzys Kolektyvinis), Aatos Sihvola (Seura Pohkakunti)
4 goals: Marcos Pérez (IFK Pollmarnang), Jochen Ptak (Viztourzys Kolektyvinis), Tullio Schi (Bengtsmark IF), Zooey Stown (Haljo Vannarby)
3 goals: Johan Hammargren (Welanduz Vadshult), Ludwig Pelzner (Blau-Weiss Pallstadt), Erik Pettersen (Sparta Torspeda), Camden Stacks (Jottnar Kallsmudden), Sico Ullsmang (Bengtsmark IF), Gabrielius Vilkas (Pajukas Sport)

[Buyan]

Far from finished, but I wanted to get it up before the deadline to ensure my teams were in the UICA competitions.
Do you follow my newswire posts? Thanks, great! Would you have any advice to me upon how I can make it better? Don't hesitate to TG.

Second Half of the Season

Matchday 12

Tjelberg Forening 0–0 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
IFK Pollmarnang 0–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (71’ Grinbergas)
Welanduz Vadshult 0–2 Haljo Vannarby (14’ Porcin, 83’ O. Jeppson)
Pajukas Sport 1–0 Bengtsmark IF (43’ Vilkas)
Seura Pohkakunti 1–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko (83’ Teuchert)
Sparta Torspeda 1–1 Jottnar Kallsmudden (22’ Konarski, 74’ Plovnarov)

Very few goals in this opener of the second half of the season. The surprise was to be seen in the Bokstasstadion, where Pajukas Sport managed to hold back Bengtsmark. Vilkas scored with a nice chip, but the event of the game was the red card for Cedar, who refused to shake the hand of his manager afterwards. To be continued, we suppose. This allowed Viztourzys to move past the Yellows and gain the leader spot, although it took them good old Grinbergas to grab three points in the Korfaltet Arena. Elsewhere, the opponents spilled points as well. Blau-Weiss couldn’t find a way through the Tjelberg defense while Jottnar did their best to make the most of their Sparta game, but had to be satisfied with a single point. The winners of the weekend therefore were Haljo, that easily won in the Lyckastadion and Seura Pohkakunti, that won an important game in the battle against relegation. It’s clear that Hlawiczka and his Tanners are far away from their best form, but they regain Szylarsz for the next fixture.

3. Dimitri Plovnarov. This youngster with his light dribbles but stellar shot envisions Sparta, a fresh team that brings something extra.
2. Leon Teuchert. They didn’t need him anymore in Pallstadt, but his experience is invaluable for a side like Seura.
Man of the Weekend. Noel Amundsen. After a difficult year to find his spot in Pajukas, Amundsen has grown into the face of Sport. It’s not a sexy face, but we like to see a hard worker every once and a while. He keeps the organisation tight and made his leaky side an untakeable fortress.


Matchday 13

Sparta Torspeda 1–1 Tjelberg Forening (54’ Pentanen, 57’ Moen)
Jottnar Kallsmudden 3–2 Seura Pohkakunti (34’ Dalmshelf, 83’ Chao, 84’ Sihvola, 89’ Castberg, 92’ Rydell)
Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–1 Pajukas Sport (22’ Martinsen, 74’ Gudaitis)
Bengtsmark IF 3–1 Welanduz Vadshult (9’ Ullsmang, 33’ Sture, 65’ Maniche, 69’ Mattisson)
Haljo Vannarby 0–0 IFK Pollmarnang
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1–0 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt (23’ Daukas)

The main event of the weekend was in the Novas Pylimasstadionas where Viztourzys and Blau-Weiss, two sides in a splendid form, would encounter each other. The first opportunity worthy of that name was for Piotr Kluszak, but the opening goal fell on the other side of the pitch. Lupeikis launched Vincas Daukas, who didn't hesitate. Especially after the break, Pallstadt did everything within their power to turn things around, but a missed penalty by Hinze devoured the last hope. The Kolektyvinis had to accept, however, that Bengtsmark remained close, IF distanced itself from their neighbours in the second half. The third side that could grab the full points this weekend was Jottnar, which seemed on their way to an easy victory with Michael Chao, one goal and two assists, in a starring role but Seura kept on fighting till the last whistle. The defense of the Haemiiluers might be poor, they know how to score a goal. The other games ended up in a tie, with little or even no spectacle. We remark how both Gudaitis and Martinsen scored threir third one for the Orange Brigade or the Tanners, both strikers seem to have caught the rhythm lately.

3. Sico Ullsmang. Has dealt very well with transfer to the Havssidan, forms a splendid combination with Schi and gets an assist from time to time.
2. Bronius Bartkus. The true leader of the internationally so succesfull Viztourzys. His vision remains an asset for any team.
Man of the Weekend. Michael Chao. The Taijani moved a bit to the background lately. Last year's star saw how the midfield got strengthened with Konarski and Sarian Stacks, but we believe that it has only made him feel better. With less pressure, he can demonstrate his technical capacity a lot more.


Matchday 14

Tjelberg Forening 2–0 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (17’ Jespersen, 71’ Ostergaard)
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 1–3 Haljo Vannarby (9’ the Heroic, 43’ Goretzka, 54’ Goretzka, 85’ Ostlund)
IFK Pollmarnang 1–2 Bengtsmark IF (12’ Havelund, 54’ Naess, 66’ Husson)
Welanduz Vadshult 0–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Pajukas Sport 1–0 Jottnar Kallsmudden (84’ Anselm)
Seura Pohkakunti 1–3 Sparta Torspeda (19’ Pentanen, 42’ Linna, 59’ Norkus, 80’ Venclova)

You add one of the nations best attackers to your side, which now contains three internationals. You buy a goalie and announce you're aiming for the Globe Cup. If that is your pre-season, than one victory in thirteen games is quite poor, but the long wait has been rewarded for the Forening fans who kept on supporting their squad. Against reigning champion Viztourzys they simply dominated and that is no wonder. Against an offensive side, Tjelberg can easily both keep the lock on the door and make a counterattack from time to time. Sil Moen was splashing around assisting passes as in his best Jottnar days and Daniel Jespersen finally became friends with the ball. Their Jottnar neighbours will be less amused, as Pajukas keeps up their fine form through a goal by Felixian Jonas Anselm and comes closer to the Globe Cup spots. But the new leader in table is once again Bengtsmark, although they had to fight till the last moment in the Korfaltet Arena. Goalgetter Havelund quickly opened the score and it wasn't but in the second half, with Ohlin and Cedar replaced by Husson and Maniche that the Yellows could move up and over the Hikers. In other news, the Blau-Weiss ambitions get a heavy downer, every last dream about the title seems over. It started off well Unter dem Linden with an early goal by David the Heroic, but Haljo took over possession and surpass them in the league.

3. Ulle Seber. Martinek cannot find his pace, the defense is poor and the creativity low, but thanks to Seber, Garbarnia still has a fighting chance.
2. Fabian Goretzka. Blau-Weiss said he "couldn't deal with UICA-level", but Goretzka has given them a clear answer about that.
Man of the Weekend. Tullio Schi. The Zwangzugian attacking midfield is rightfully considered the best footballer to walk the Buyanese pitches this season. With his skilled passing and vision, getting in front of opposite goalies himself from time to time, he guides a transformed Bengtsmark.


Matchday 15

Seura Pohkakunti 4–1 Tjelberg Forening (40’ Rydell, 58’ Moen, 64’ Saari, 69’ Teuchert, 92’ Pajari)
Sparta Torspeda 2–2 Pajukas Sport (18’ Pettersen, 43’ Vilkas, 74’ Plovnarov, 79’ Losokov)
Jottnar Kallsmudden 1–1 Welanduz Vadshult (14’ Konopka, 84’ Hammargren)
Garbarnia Hoyersko 2–0 IFK Pollmarnang (29’ L. Szylarsz, 43’ Martinsen)
Bengtsmark IF 2–3 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt (3’ Mattisson, 23’ Pelzner, 44’ Milosevici, 84’ Barcon, 88’ Husson)
Haljo Vannarby 2–2 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (20’ Ptak, 36’ Lammerschon, 65’ Stown, 88’ Porcin)

It's a strange game, football, as last week's losers can be this weeks winners. Bengtsmark IF seemed on their way for a winning streak, but they fell at home against Pallstadt. It started off well, when Mattisson already headed an opener past a surprised Erhardt in the third minute but Blau-Weiss was very effective. Already in their first attack, Pelzner scored and a shot from far out by Nouvel Ecossian Milosevici hit the net. Tullio Schi was perfectly covered by Peco Hinze and Helm and Vrintze forced the Bengtsmark wingers to fall back too far to cause danger. Eventually, the last word was for Barcon who seems to have surpassed Kauppi as starting right midfielder. Another who could confirm was Tjelberg, that received quite a blow-out in the Paraati Areenalla. It was a good day for the teams in the tail anyway, as Szylarsz could score his long-awaited first for Garbarnia and Welanduz came away with a point from the Vingardarena. Jottnar has tons of talent, but Wiig cannot carry the defensive load on his own now Tufte moved to Mytannion.

3. Piotr Kluszak. They cannot show it yet on all occasions, but Kluszak made Blau-Weiss an interesting footballing side with lots of potential.
2. Borje Rydell. 'The Ridle', as his obvious nickname sounds, is a fragile footballer but his passes are majestic.
WoMan of the Weekend. Zooey Stown. Who would've thought. Many criticised her over her gender, but Stown has her team in a firm grip and Kalle Axborn supports her on this. Guys who disagreed with her leadership, like Jeppson and Hakansson...


Matchday 16

Tjelberg Forening 3–1 Haljo Vannarby (36’ Jespersen, 42’ Jespersen, 65’ Porcin, 81’ Riel)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1–0 Bengtsmark IF (7’ Ptak)
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko
IFK Pollmarnang 2–1 Jottnar Kallsmudden (39’ Konopka, 45’ Nilsson, 86’ Ladsell)
Welanduz Vadshult 1–0 Sparta Torspeda (12’ Lossching)
Pajukas Sport 2–0 Seura Pohkakunti (54’ Paleckis, 94’ Paulas)

Matchday 17

Pajukas Sport 1–0 Tjelberg Forening (82’ Paulas)
Seura Pohkakunti 0–2 Welanduz Vadshult (23’ Aalberg, 92’ Posse)
Sparta Torspeda 2–4 IFK Pollmarnang (2’ Pentanen, 43’ Thorkildsen, 49’ Norkus, 67’ Havelund, 77’ Pérez, 84’ Havelund)
Jottnar Kallsmudden 1–5 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt (15’ Kauppi, 34’ Chao, 59’ the Heroic, 72’ Kluszak, 78’ the Heroic, 83’ Kluszak)
Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–0 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (73’ L. Szylarsz)
Bengtsmark IF 1–0 Haljo Vannarby (77’ Mattisson)

Matchday 18

Tjelberg Forening 1–0 Bengtsmark IF (74’ Moen)
Haljo Vannarby 0–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko (34’ L. Szylarsz)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 4–0 Jottnar Kallsmudden (23’ Ptak, 48’ Daukas, 49’ Daukas, 92’ Liepa)
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0–1 Sparta Torspeda (84’ K. Karosas)
IFK Pollmarnang 2–3 Seura Pohkakunti (4’ Vehvilianen, 30’ Kuusi, 43’ Valminen, 74’ Poluceck, 82’ Teuchert)
Welanduz Vadshult 2–4 Pajukas Sport (15’ Gudaitis, 28’ Vilkas, 38’ Hammargren, 55’ Amundsen, 81’ Paulas, 88’ Skulason)

Matchday 19

Welanduz Vadshult 0–0 Tjelberg Forening
Pajukas Sport 0–1 IFK Pollmarnang (73’ Havelund)
Seura Pohkakunti 3–6 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt (23’ Pelzner, 44’ Pelzner, 52’ Rydell, 56’ Kauppi, 64’ Kroempf, 68’ Kluszak, 77’ Jokela, 82’ Schau, 89’ Pajari)
Sparta Torspeda 1–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (21’ Ptak, 77’ Pentanen)
Jottnar Kallsmudden 1–0 Haljo Vannarby (13’ Svendsen)
Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–2 Bengtsmark IF (54’ Schi, 68’ Gruzek, 83’ Mattisson)

Table with three more games to come

...Top Division             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   Pts 
 1 Bengtsmark IF             19   12   2   5    35   18    38
 2 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis   19   11   5   3    28   16    38
 3 Pajukas Sport             19    9   6   4    18   11    33
 4 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt      19    9   4   6    33   23    31
 5 IFK Pollmarnang           19    8   4   7    28   27    28
 6 Haljo Vannarby            19    8   3   8    23   24    27
 7 Jottnar Kallsmudden       19    6   6   7    22   27    24
 8 Tjelberg Forening         19    4  10   5    12   13    22
 9 Sparta Torspeda           19    5   6   8    29   34    21
10 Welanduz Vadshult         19    4   6   9    17   26    18
11 Seura Pohkakunti          19    4   4  11    25   41    16
12 Garbarnia Hoyersko        19    4   4  11    10   20    16

Matchday 20

Tjelberg Forening 2–2 Garbarnia Hoyersko (43’ Martinek, 65’ Martinsen, 77’ Moen, 89’ Jespersen)
Bengtsmark IF 0–3 Jottnar Kallsmudden (29’ Dalmshelf, 74’ Konopka, 88’ Stacks)
Haljo Vannarby 1–4 Sparta Torspeda (4’ Pentanen, 23’ Sundqvist, 53’ Plovnarov, 54’ Pettersen, 74’ Norkus)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 5–3 Seura Pohkakunti (8’ Lammerschon, 43’ Ptak, 54’ Sihvola, 58’ Sihvola, 65’ Halmiini, 68’ Bartkus, 77’ Kaapri, 83’ Ptak)
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 1–0 Pajukas Sport (59’ Hueppe)
IFK Pollmarnang 1–0 Welanduz Vadshult (34’ S. Lundgren)

Matchday 21

IFK Pollmarnang 0–0 Tjelberg Forening
Welanduz Vadshult 0–1 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt (39’ Maurer)
Pajukas Sport 2–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (57’ Losokov, 74’ Amundsen, 83’ Halmiini)
Seura Pohkakunti 0–1 Haljo Vannarby (21’ Sundqvist)
Sparta Torspeda 0–0 Bengtsmark IF
Jottnar Kallsmudden 0–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko (19’ L. Szylarsz)

Matchday 22

Tjelberg Forening 3–2 Jottnar Kallsmudden (26’ Zermin, 42’ Dalmshelf, 66’ Jespersen, 79’ Sparre, 83’ Niceforski)
Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–1 Sparta Torspeda (49’ Slawik, 68’ Mamontovas)
Bengtsmark IF 0–1 Seura Pohkakunti (4’ Nikula)
Haljo Vannarby 3–1 Pajukas Sport (22’ Stown, 43’ Anselm, 74’ Goretzka, 86’ Rappel)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1–1 Welanduz Vadshult (74’ Daukas, 85’ Palm)
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 1–0 IFK Pollmarnang (53’ Barcon)

Final Table

...Top Division             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   Pts 
 1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis   22   12   6   4    35   22    42
 2 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt      22   12   4   6    36   23    40
 3 Bengtsmark IF             22   12   3   7    35   22    39
 4 Pajukas Sport             22   10   6   6    21   16    36
 5 Haljo Vannarby            22   10   3   9    28   29    33
 6 IFK Pollmarnang           22    9   5   8    29   28    32
 7 Tjelberg Forening         22    5  12   5    17   17    27
 8 Jottnar Kallsmudden       22    7   6   9    27   31    27
 9 Sparta Torspeda           22    6   8   8    34   36    26
10 Garbarnia Hoyersko        22    5   6  11    14   23    21
11 Welanduz Vadshult         22    4   7  11    18   29    19
12 Seura Pohkakunti          22    5   4  13    29   47    19

Topscorers

13 goals: Edvald Mattisson (Bengtsmark IF), Juha Pentanen (Sparta Torspeda)
11 goals: Elmo Havelund (IFK Pollmarnang)
10 goals: Duco Dalmshelf (Jottnar Kallsmudden), Jochen Ptak (Viztourzys Kolektyvinis)
9 goals: David the Heroic (Blau-Weiss Pallstadt), Vincas Daukas (Viztourzys Kolektyvinis)
8 goals: Aatos Sihvola (Seura Pohkakunti)
7 goals: Daniel Ostlund (Haljo Vannarby)
6 goals: Gabrielius Vilkas (Pajukas Sport), Ludwig Pelzner (Blau-Weiss Pallstadt), Zooey Stown (Haljo Vannarby), Daniel Jespersen (Tjelberg Forening)
5 goals: Johan Hammargren (Welanduz Vadshult), Marcos Pérez (IFK Pollmarnang), Dimitri Plovnarov (Sparta Torspeda), Sil Moen (Tjelberg Forening), Erik Porcin (Haljo Vannarby), Erik Pettersen (Sparta Torspeda), Piotr Kluszak (Blau-Weiss Pallstadt), Tullio Schi (Bengtsmark IF), Ezekiel Martinsen (Garbarnia Hoyersko)
4 goals: Sico Ullsmang (Bengtsmark IF), Fabian Goretzka (Haljo Vannarby), Ivan Gudaitis (Pajukas Sport), Henryk Konopka (Jottnar Kallsmudden), Lothar Szylarsz (Garbarnia Hoyersko), Borje Rydell (Seura Pohkakunti), Leon Teuchert (Seura Pohkakunti), Michael Chao (Jottnar Kallsmudden), Camden Stacks (Jottnar Kallsmudden), Vridrich Lammerschon (Viztourzys Kolektyvinis)
3 goals: Gerolf Poluceck (IFK Pollmarnang), Felipe Maniche (Bengtsmark IF), Vaino Kuusi (Seura Pohkakunti), Vincas Norkus (Sparta Torspeda), Eero Halmiini (Viztourzys Kolektyvinis), Ferdi Barcon (Blau-Weiss Pallstadt), Ramunas Paulas (Pajukas Sport), Jonas Anselm (Pajukas Sport), Arne Sundqvist (Haljo Vannarby), Stefan Ladsell (IFK Pollmarnang)

[Buyan]

2017

Introduction

It’s almost impossible to imagine which road the Buyanese Football League has gone ever since their first incarnation. Back in those days, Karl Vonrud, then only manager of the Norrutliga, needed to do a lot in order to just get the representatives around the table of the seven divisions that were considered to contain the highest level of football. It were long talks, but they were fruitful. At first, those present only were interested in a post-season Endklasse, as was the name of the Top Division then. It wasn’t until they saw how much public interest the duels between Viztourzys Kolektyvinis, Bengtsmark IF, Jottnar Kallsmudden and Garbarnia Hoyersko rallied that they realised the potential for a national competition.

Now, only a bit more than two years after Bronius Bartkus could lift the first trophy into the air, professional football has taken a massive turn on the archipelago. Back then, only a few of the team’s stars could live from their sports-related revenues and most combined their task on the pitch with one in our working fabric. In the victorious Viztourzys side from those days, we had a welder (Aigis Lupeikis), a pub owner (Kazys Navickas), a baker (Tomas Varnas) and an office clerk (Stasys Grinbergas), amongst others. The attentive souls will note that Viztourzys, the pearl on our national competition, has changed and so has Buyanese football.

All four players mentioned above have moved away from Viztourzys or collect minutes on the bench and the Novas Pylimasstadionas, which has been so beautifully enlarged and embellished in order to meet the requirements of the Campionato Esportiva, now looks upon a collective of professional football players, some of them even foreign. With the current additions, no less than twenty-two players in the Top Division have a foreign name on their passports and quite a few of them, not to name Schi, Amundsen, Mynatt, Schmidt, Chao and other David the Heroics, are well-respected internationals.

The invasion has not only gone in a single way. Currently, no less than thirteen Buyanese football players earn their salary abroad. With Tufte, Wallenberg, Hopp, Castell, Smetona, Halmiini, Havelund, Zermin and of course Sverre Devold, the man who leads the way, they make up a large minority of the national football squad, a team that over the course of the last fifteen months not only managed to lift the Baptism of Fire trophy over their head, but also gathered their bit of a reputation with a few unexpected results against nations such as the Archregimancy, West Angola, Sargossa, Gregoryisgodistan, Ossidiacqua and Brenecia. Under the firm leadership of Sirius Hope, the Paradystopian manager, we hope to continue that success.

But international success hasn’t limited itself to the Blue Hedgehogs. Over the last UICA season, we saw the first Buyanese side to make it into and through the group phase, as the Kolektyvinis astonished the world beating out seasoned opponents such as 1896 Ebor, SC Cascadia and Forest Hill FC, only to fall at the hands of the infamous Yuba United. It wasn’t the only UICA success, as all teams entered managed to move through at least one round. We, at the Football Board, are convinced that such can only be supported with strong and financially capable sports clubs, both at the Top and the Second level.

The Top Division teams, all of which will be fully professional from this point onwards, have done quite a few investments to not only offer their players the best possible circumstances, but also to ensure top class extra-sportive facilities. Fan management, better stadiums, ... Each at his own pace tries to lay the fundaments for the future. But top football not only deals with the highest level. In order to ensure a continuous high level amongst all our teams, we have put up certain financial requirements for Second Divisionists as well. The pyramid is as strong as its base. Unfortunately, that caused a few sides to end their time amongst the happy few. Hallning Verein, Blimt United and Komanda Zaipis have left the competition. They will be replaced by Gamla Brage, the returning Phonix Darvell and Paszai Association. As a second part of that movement, a U19 tournament has been added to the list of competitions.

With the addition of these teams, the President’s Cup format remains the same. The victor of this tournament still qualifies for the Cygnus Cup while the UICA spots are determined through the national competition. Before we take a look to how the Buyanese abroad did and how they’re looking forward to the upcoming season, we’ll inform you upon the Interregional Play-offs and the First Rounds of the Cup, which serve as preparation for the season for all squads.

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Interregional Play-Offs

With a slight alteration of last year’s format, five teams take the start in this important pre-season tournament, instead of six. For all of them, the stakes are high as their season will be determined by the four upcoming duels. Who will be forced to spend a year in the cellars of Second Division and who can enjoy themselves with a season amongst the greats in the Top Division?

It’s hard to fixate on a single favourite, but it seems that Welanduz Vadshult certainly has the right cards on their hands. Despite losing two of their younger talents, amongst which central defender Skarsgard, they have come out of the transfer season as a stronger side thanks to their big brothers of Bengtsmark. Magnus Cedar, abundant at the Havssidan, and the exciting Paulista attacker Felipe Maniche join their ranks. On top of that, they bought Sigi Prinsen, the top talent of direct opponent Onwards Hollkoping. Onwards starts the IPOs with little ambition, although they did add two Top Division players to their roster with Johan Jeppson and Elias Kronen.

No ambition is something of which Slask Pruzniwczo can’t be suspected. Despite various interesting offers, Maxim Dziuba remains on the island of Serkau. With the addition of former Garbarnia midfielder Jachowski, they appear ready for the battle. For a long time, we couldn’t say the same about Seura Pohkakunti. The Pride of Haemiilu once again had to accept that talented players like Kaapri and Nikulu departed. It wasn’t but on the ultimate day of the transfer season that they could make their major move. Armanis Briedis, who couldn’t regain his spot in the Pajukas team after two seasons filled with injuries, was bought but that was against the advice of the fans. Briedis was an expensive buy and could be a stone around their neck if they relegate. Last but not least, there was Asociacija Uraugai. Those managed to keep their champion side together, thanks to a foreign, Farfadillian investor.

MD1
Welanduz Vadshult 1–0 Onwards Hollkoping
Asociacija Uraugai 2–2 Slask Pruzniwczo

Welanduz immediately crowns itself favourite for the competition with quick, attractive and dominant football. As in the old days, Magnus Cedar directs passes around and Onwards finds itself with the back against the wall. Nonetheless, it isn’t until the eighty-second minute till the hammer drops. A goal with a sour taste for Onwards, as it is their former player Sigi Prinsen who gives the assisting pass to Maniche. In the other match, Slask and Asociacija both get in front once, but eventually an own goal from Slask defender Kraszlav decides upon a draw.

MD2
Onwards Hollkoping 2–0 Asociacija Uraugai
Seura Pohkakunti 2–1 Welanduz Vadshult

The Seura Pohkakunti doesn’t seem to look like the slow side that got themselves in the relegation zone last year. The new defense, with Kohlemainen and Ruutu is a lot more vivid and with Jonas Kjaer, the pressure on the ball is higher. Yet they find themselves behind after three minutes, a marvellous goal by Dan Gelson. However, Seura fights back and Sihvola draws, after which Armanis Briedis gets his bit of revenge. On the other pitch, there is little doubt upon who is the better side. Over the course of ninety minutes, it is Onwards that is the dominant side and Uraugai is happy to get away with a 2-0.

MD3
Asociacija Uraugai 2–3 Seura Pohkakunti
Slask Pruzniwczo 3–3 Onwards Hollkoping

Another day, another game and an other Uraugai. Especially their quick attacker Steponas Jovaysa cuts through the defense today, he scores twice although once with a little help from a hesitating Edgaras Kundrotas. But in the second half, it’s Kuusi who brings his team back in the game and Seura dominates. In the last ten minutes, Teuchert and Pajari find the back of the net. A lot of goals in the other duel as well, where Slask gives away a 2-0 at half time. When Onwards pulls one back, Ernest Placzwo scores again, but nerves and hesitation make Pruzniwczo falter. In the extra time, Johan Jeppson escapes the attention of Dziuba and scores the equaliser.

MD4
Seura Pohkakunti 1–1 Slask Pruzniwczo
Welanduz Vadshult 0–0 Asociacija Uraugai

Despite being one game down, Seura holds the lead and their first half in the Paraati Areenalla shows exactly why. With quick football, they outwit their opponent and only the post and goalie Zavlowek keep the gap limited to single goal by Aatos Sihvola. Slask manages to play better in the second half and a single counter is enough for an important point. Seura is as good as save, something one cannot be said from Welanduz. After a good opening game, Magnus Cedar can not shine again in the Lyckastadion. Eventually, replacement goalie Tim Widforss is the hero of the day after saving the determining penalty.

MD5
Slask Pruzniwczo 0–0 Welanduz Vadshult
Onwards Hollkoping 1–2 Seura Pohkakunti

Nerves on all fronts, it seems, only Seura knows that only an unlikely scenario can keep them out of the Top Division. They’re the only side to present proper football in the opening half and with quick passing, they bring Sihvola in front of goal twice, two goals in. Onwards only slowly manages to pick themselves up and dust themselves off. A goal from Sellmund comes to late, Seura is sure of the ticket. The battle for the second one becomes a true battlefield. After little good football and four red cards, it is Welanduz who qualifies for the Top Division, but their football hasn’t been a lust for the eye.

. IPO                  Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  Pts 
1 Seura Pohkakunti       4   3  1  0    8   5   10   TOP DIV
2 Welanduz Vadshult      4   1  2  1    2   2    5   TOP DIV
3 Onwards Hollkoping     4   1  1  2    6   6    4
4 Slask Pruzniwczo       4   0  4  0    6   6    4
5 Asociacija Uraugai     4   0  2  2    4   7    2

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President’s Cup – First Rounds – Lower Divisions

Apart from a ticket to the Top Division, Seura Pohkakunti also qualified for the quarterfinals of the President’s Cup. But who will join them? Blau-Weiss Pallstadt can already be sure of a place there after their glorious victory over Jottnar last season. They will be joined by four Top Division squads and two sides from lower divisions. Who those will be, will be determined through a knock-out tournament.

Round of 16
        Kuinopi Club 1–2 Aigil Grephel
  Grephel Gryphionen 1–1 Hattrick Zeimgava     (2–2 AET) (3–1 pen.)
 Tjallimvarn Kickers 3–3 Forbund Bengtsmark    (3–3 AET) (4–5 pen.)
    Kaemper Norderud 2–2 Ruch Siepoclawycz     (2–3 AET)
     Ciegnalki Motor 0–0 Fiarsdal Forening     (2–1 AET)
 Grunshoffer Allianz 1–2 Mechler Fusscollectiv
  Mirzich Jedenascie 1–2 Thor Rellhovn
 Tillsamman Stensund 1–1 Phonix Darvell        (2–1 AET)

        JX Jurbiskis 1–1 Druzhna Rovers        (2–2 AET) (4–3 pen.)
    Feldhammer Havik 0–1 Virksomhet Stovsand
         FV Vannarby 1–1 Pelta Union           (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.)
 22. Czerwiec Grozno 3–2 Gamla Brage 
  Quellsfeld Freunde 1–0 Linnameeskond Harseni
      Hretha Somlhus 0–0 Paszai Association    (1–2 AET)
       Ernesse Stahl 0–0 Gornik Wladica        (2–1 AET)
         AA Vadshult 0–1 Siklapaa Jalkapallo

Quarterfinals
       Aigil Grephel 3–0 Grephel Gryphionen
  Forbund Bengtsmark 2–1 Ruch Siepoclawycz
     Ciegnalki Motor 1–0 Mechler Fusscollectiv
       Thor Rellhovn 1–1 Tillsamman Stensund   (2–1 AET)

        JX Jurbiskis 2–0 Virksomhet Stovsand
         FV Vannarby 0–1 22. Czerwiec Grozno
  Quellsfeld Freunde 2–0 Paszai Association
       Ernesse Stahl 2–1 Siklapaa Jalkapallo

Semi-finals
       Aigil Grephel 2–1 Forbund Bengtsmark
     Ciegnalki Motor 0–2 Thor Rellhovn
        JX Jurbiskis 2–2 22. Czerwiec Grozno   (3–3 AET) (5–4 pen.)
  Quellsfeld Freunde 2–2 Ernesse Stahl         (2–3 AET)

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President’s Cup – Qualification Round – Lower Divisions

Aigil Grephel 0–2 Thor Rellhovn

The two only sides yet to date to have relegated from the Top Division encounter one another in this qualification game. None of them really still looks like they previously did, but the watchful observer will still note the remnants from the nearby past. The Aigil superstar still goes by the name of Gerald Weber and golden oldies Ramsmann and von Langerehen still populate the midfield. By their side, we note only young players, most hardly twenty. On the other side of the always enthused Sahlepark we note how Thor Rellhovn still opts for their characteristic 5-3-2, even with new faces in the team. Losing Abrahamsen to Pajukas in the off-season was a major loss and it remained a question how they would deal with that, even after three victorious games.

The answer to that question, however, was ‘with ease’. Thor dominated from the first minute onwards and Viggo Gundersen already scored early on. Knowing that Weber would be the key figure, they guarded him closely and good old Westergaard only had to save one crucial chance by the vivid Gurnfeld. Just a few minutes before half-time, Anders Prolling doubled the score and that closed the books for this game. No matter what Aigil tried, they couldn’t fight their way back into the game and were lucky in the end that Gundersen missed an easy opportunity for the third one.


JX Jurbiskis 0–2 Ernesse Stahl

With the loss of goalgetter Ludwig Pelzner to Blau-Weiss Pallstadt and guardian angel David Eckstein for Viztourzys Kolektyvinis, Ernesse Stahl had to let go of their main player over the last two seasons. No wonder that they were already glad to keep their side together and more than happy to add Herzo Gluenreich, former Pallstadt player, to their line-up. Showing their stubbornness so far, they were the clear favourites of JX Jurbiskis, who made this phase of the competition for the second year in a row. JX could still count on the same guys as then and sure was eager to qualify once more for a lucrative duel against a Top Division side.

The opening half was more than entertaining. Bartulis hit the post for the home team, while Burgenhardt came within a few inches of an opening goal for Ernesse. All in all, the fans could enjoy a close game in which both sides could claim more than a nil each at half time. The second half was a bit less entertaining, both knew that a goal from the opponent would end the game without any doubt. Eventually, it was Ernesse that could make the decisive goal, Markus Burgenhardt was quicker than his direct opponent and launched one in the net. Jurbiskis tried to set things straight and Marius Arlauskas came close with a header on the post, but Ernesse could even double up to grab a ticket to the quarterfinals.

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President’s Cup – First Round – Top Division

With great interest, the watchers followed the qualification round for Top Division teams. With the limitation of the IPOs, a new concept needed to be invented to separate four qualifiers for the quarterfinals, where they would join Thor Rellhovn, Seura Pohkakunti, Ernesse Stahl and Blau-Weiss Pallstadt, amongst the nine competitors. After quite some deliberation, it was decided that three groups of three teams would be created. The top-two of those competitions would qualify for the qualification round in which the same three-team format would be used. A useless format indeed, but no one could come up with a better one.

Group A

IFK Pollmarnang 0–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko

An interesting opener in the A-group between the two underdogs. The Korfaltet Arena saw their side take on the highest level without Elmo Havelund for the first time in ages and it was no surprise that Garbarnia dominated throughout the first period. The possession from the Tanners resulted in an opening goal by Ezekiel Martinsen after only twelve minutes, but the brown-and-black kept the higher ground until the last fifteen minutes. Only then, Peter Horning dared to stage Gerolf Poluceck as second attacker and the long striker almost scored the equaliser after a strange carambole. No use eventually, it was Bartosz Hlawiczka and his guys who could celebrate a splendid opening of the season.

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 3–3 IFK Pollmarnang

A lot of new faces to be spotted in the opening line-up for Viztourzys, Yttribian Mynatt debuted as attacking midfield while Delafuente got his first playing minutes on the right midfield position. With former Seura player Petri Kaapri picking up the spot from the injured Wreczius, the Red Machine staged a completely new midfield and that had its child diseases at first. Twice in the opening fifteen minutes could Stefan Ladsell pick out the unmarked man, Guayabalan Pérez and novel attacker Erwin Kroempf found the back of the net. Jochen Ptak pulled one back, but after a goal by Lundgren, Viztourzys seemed to face a loss in their seasonal opener. Eventually they could convince the Novas Pylimasstadionas that all was well with a splendid last few minutes in which Gustave Mynatt scored his first one for the Red Machine and Ptak worked another one past Lasse Falk.

Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–0 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis

The last game at the Aleja Lipowa was a boring piece of football between a team that wasn’t capable to do a lot, Garbarnia, and a side that knew that a single point would be sufficient to make it to the next round. The Tanners had one proper chance around the fifty minute mark, when Szylarsz had a marvellous control in store to a pass by Martinek, turned away from Firecrest and launched a rocket to the bottom corner, but Manuel Schmidt clearly was in great shape. In an unexciting fashion, both teams qualified for the next round.


Group B

Tjelberg Forening 0–2 Sparta Torspeda

Nerves in Den Dam. Tjelberg announced the attack on Jottnar with great fanfare last season, but couldn’t exactly deliver. Welcoming back Ole Schau, who couldn’t fulfil the promises for Blau-Weiss after being barred by Piotr Kluszak, should be the man to make them a Globe Cup contender, but the Forening couldn’t keep that up. Even to the contrary, it was Sparta Torspeda who had the best pace in the opening game of the season, with the inevitable Juha Pentanen scoring from a sharp corner, no response from a surprised Palle Angst. Afterwards, the fans could witness a balanced game with opportunities on both ends, but the Purples couldn’t even score from the penalty point: Sil Moen hit the post. The last word was for Dimitri Plovnarov who demonstrated why so many people wanted him in the off-season when he took a long pass from new addition Juan Matias Somoza on the volley to double up the scoreline.

Bengtsmark IF 0–0 Tjelberg Forening

All or nothing for the Forening, but the Ravnar Challengers were up for a harsh task in the Havssidan. But the renewed Bengtsmark midfield, in which Naess and Ohlin support Ullsmang, Zwangzugian superstar Tullio Schi and latest transfer Yakobe Zunzarren, still struggled a bit to find the click, Edvald Mattisson hardly received a proper pass. This should’ve left the road wide open for Tjelberg to respond, but Schau once again couldn’t direct his side to the goal. Rumours in the stadium say that he’ll probably be replaced by new Mytanar midfielder Mikhail Kondrashov, who was obtained from Litala 93. Overall, the best opportunity was for Harald Naess, but the attempt from far out by the experienced international died on the crossbar.

Sparta Torspeda 2–2 Bengtsmark IF

Bengtsmark had to rectify something after their poor performance at home, but the opponent in the Pergale Stadionas clearly has caught the right pace early on this season. After only two minutes, Juha Pentanen outwitted both Englund and Mamontovas with a simple pass and Kubilius hit the back of the net. Sparta continued to dictate the pace, with Kazys Navickas ruling the midfield like a general. Navickas is looking for revenge without any doubt and the ambitious Sparta Torspeda is the ideal place to do so. They could’ve doubled up, but Vincas Norkus met Saldlund on his route to goal. Tullio Schi finally got the engine running for the visiting side and in only a few minutes, the game saw a turnaround after goals by Mattisson and Ullsmang. Although both sides would qualify, it would be Sparta who could do so as group winner as Pentanen showed his incredible instinct eye in eye with the goalie.


Group C

Haljo Vannarby 0–2 Jottnar Kallsmudden

The home team couldn’t count on Zooey Stown, their infamous captain, and it immediately became clear which difference this makes upon the boys from the Holmarena. Jottnar easily dominated the first half and managed to score through Konopka and Stacks. Even without Dalmshelf, the Giants can easily find the back off the net, or should we say that due to the transfer from Duco Dalmshelf to Blau-Weiss, the balance in the team has returned? Either way, we noted how Freddi Ulvan managed to make his team play with calmth and ease, as they could affort a lesser second half. The Haljo fans will mainly be looking out for the return of Stown during the next game, as Ostlund wasted the only chance their team could create.

Pajukas Sport 1–2 Haljo Vannarby

The home team wanted to have a good preparation for their upcoming fixture against Lymantatian Virção FC, but the filled Bokstasstadion didn’t exactly liberate them off their worries. Goalie Kudirka had a very poor match, letting a ball from Ostlund slip through his fingers, just minutes before misreading a harmless chip from Zooey Stown. Two goals down at half-time, Tomascevicius opted for a remarkable 3-5-2 in which New Sideburnian addition Aidan Martyn made his debute for the team. Sport pressed and dominated, but couldn’t beat an industrious Bruno Hawke. Gudaitis, Vilkas, Amundsen and Vilkas once more couldn’t get the leather behind the experienced goalie and when Istvan Losokov eventually did, there were only two more minutes left on the clock, not enough time to force a draw.

Jottnar Kallsmudden 1–1 Pajukas Sport

If Pajukas wanted to avoid a poor start of the season, they would need a victory in the expanded Vingardarena, but the Giants clearly had little interest in allowing their opponents such a glory. Once again, 35-year old Ladislao Kudirka didn’t look too bright when he only got one glove against a wild shot from Michael Chao. Konopa picked up the rebound and opened the scoreline. All or nothing for Pajukas, for which Ib Abrahamsen debuted this evening. Little use, as the Giants kept control for most off the game, even if that meant that possession was for the Boys in Green. Some poor judgement from Czovlap allowed Ivan Gudaitis to even out the score, but Pajukas couldn’t get near Anders Bergh anymore and had to accept an elimination.

---

President’s Cup – Qualification Round – Top Division

Group Y

Jottnar Kallsmudden 1–2 Bengtsmark IF

In an anxious Vingardarena, second goalie Ludvik Vallerengs had a horrible start of the game when he completely misjudged a harmless shot from Zunzarren, who could celebrate his first one for the Yellows after only three minutes. But the Giants fought back, a clever doublepass between Chao and Konarski deserved more than the post and Brian Svendsen almost scored if it weren’t for a desperate flail from Erbald Saldlund. Just a few minutes in the second half, all hope was lost for Jottnar when Haugan made an incorrect tackle and Schi kept his nerve from the penalty point. Although the Giants deserved more than nil points judged by the possession and amount of goal scoring opportunities, they didn’t get any further than a consolation goal by Slawko Konarski.

Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–0 Jottnar Kallsmudden

Immediately a determining game for Kallsmudden, who couldn’t afford a defeat on the Aleja Lipowa. Garbarnia came to the pitch with an unattractive, yet effective 5-3-2, staging youth product Damien Ravloczek in between Chmielewski and Bytnar for the first time. The 18-year old did quite well, even saving the day when he threw himself in the way of a shot from Camden Stacks. Although Jottnar knew they needed a goal, they were a bit too afraid for the counterattack to opt for an all-out attack. It wasn’t until the 78th minute that Ola Wiig was replaced by Svendsen, but ‘Tanksen’ nor Konopka could get a ball past Rasmus Beck. Another fine performance by the Garbarnia goalie, who might not have replaced Seber in the hearts of the fans, but does that properly between the sticks.

Bengtsmark IF 3–3 Garbarnia Hoyersko

Football is a game of two halves, the official rule book mentions, and damn right they are. The first half wasn’t worthy your or my time, as both teams focussed too much on organisation to see the moments of creativity that could turn around the game. Tullio Schi, clearly back in the great form from last year eventually broke the deadlock with a magnificent back heel, allowing Mattisson the goal. The response from the Tanners came quick and deadly: Martinsen with a header and Graucis brings them in front just a few minutes later. A moment of hesitation in the home team, but Franz Ernstell missed an easy opportunity, allowing Bengtsmark to get back in the game. Astograthian Zunzarren showed once more why they paid one million Mint for him with a technically perfect shot and Ralph Husson brought Bengtsmark back in front. However, it ain’t over till the fat lady sings and Ezekiel Martinsen was said overweight woman today, scoring the 3-3 in the last minute, qualifying both teams to the quarterfinals.


Group Z

Sparta Torspeda 0–0 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis

The Orange Brigade versus the Red Machine, that had provided us two exciting games last season. The game in the Pergale Stadionas had been a tight one-one, while the 5-4 from the away game had become a classic. Yet, both teams didn’t seem to feel much for a repeat of those spectacle games, although we must laud the excellent performance from defenders on both sides on the pitch. Bartkus-Firecrest once again was an untangible fortress, while Somoza, colloquially already known as JM, makes the Torspeda fans forget about Mamontovas. Jochen Ptak had the only goal of the game on his foot, but Evaldas Sakalauskas kept his head cool and tilted the ball over the crossbar.

Haljo Vannarby 0–1 Sparta Torspeda

The slow-paced demonstration from the opening game found a repeat in the second fixture. No pace, moderate passing, little excitement, no wonder that the Holmarena was disgruntled at half time. A sentiment that only got worse fifty-three minutes in. A corner from captain Brazauskas got elongated by Plovnarov from the first post. Both Mytanar Juha Pentanen and Haljo-goalie Hawke went into the air. The latter got a hand on the ball, but Pentanen headed ball and man into the net. Despite furious protest from the Haljo players, which would cost Kristian Rappel a red card, the referee kept hold of his decision and that sufficed for Sparta to make it to the quarterfinals.

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2–1 Haljo Vannarby

Do or die for Haljo. While the Viztourzys boys were still recuperating from their Champions Cup fixture, Haljo felt that they had to take this last opportunity. During the first twenty-five minutes, it seemed as if the team in blue was the reigning triple champion of the Buyanese football competition, but Manuel Schmidt kept his goal as clean as a whistle. An old football idiom says that if you don’t score, the opponent will in time and Jochen Ptak opened the score through the first opportunity for the Red Machine. Vannarby had to accept another blow when Tore Eriksson was sent off, the subsequent penalty was easily put in the bottom corner by Bartkus. With qualification ensured, three goals in the clear, Viztourzys dropped back a little, allowed some bench players a few pitch minutes. Erik Porcin could score for Haljo, but too little, too late.

Quarterfinals of the Buyanese President’s Cup

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt – Garbarnia Hoyersko
Seura Pohkakunti – Thor Rellhovn
Bengtsmark IF – Sparta Torspeda
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis – Ernesse Stahl

[Buyan]

Introduction

With the addition of three new teams, the BBL decided to opt for a new competition format. The participating sides are split in two groups of fourteen teams. The top-seven progress to the second part of the competition where seven tickets for the play-offs are distributed. An eight ticket will be fought for by the remaining fourteen sides.

First part of the Season

...Group West            Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts 
 1 Somlhus Sharks         26   23   3  2165 1786 +379    46
 2 Poseidon Pallstadt     26   20   6  2080 1820 +260    40
 3 Vannarby Kaisers       26   18   8  2010 1824 +186    36
 4 Vadshult Vikings       26   16  10  2068 1931 +137    32
 5 Alliance Grozno        26   15  11  2001 1986  +15    30
 6 Wladica Dunk           26   14  12  2014 1946  +68    28
 7 Rellhovn Gigants       26   13  13  1894 1960  −66    26
----------------------------------------------------------
 8 Ernesse Guardians      26   11  15  1961 2035  −74    22
 9 Grephel Raptors        26   10  16  1906 1950  −44    20
10 Bengtsmark BC          26   10  16  1861 2050 −189    20
11 Basket Blimt           26   10  16  1847 2076 −229    20
12 Kallsmudden Titans     26    9  17  1907 1984  −77    18
13 Nalsjo Miners          26    9  17  1888 2006 −118    18
14 Hoyersko Stars         26    4  22  1828 2076 −248     8

...Group East            Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts 
 1 Torspeda Toros         26   23   3  2146 1757 +389    46
 2 Silduvne Savior        26   19   7  2086 1872 +214    38
 3 Kuranki Knights        26   19   7  2104 1897 +207    38
 4 Pajukas Panzers        26   17   9  2077 1905 +172    34
 5 Avanti Avikehti        26   17   9  1998 1853 +145    34
 6 Dyatinsk Basket        26   15  11  1991 1924  +67    30
 7 Pelta Buccaneers       26   13  13  1880 1977  −97    26
----------------------------------------------------------
 8 Double Paszai          26   12  14  1992 2010  −18    24
 9 Druzhna Fire           26   11  15  1954 1979  −25    22
10 Uraugai Vandals        26   10  16  1915 1976  −61    20
11 Harseni Hammers        26   10  16  1880 2064 −184    20
12 Demolition Siklapaa    26    7  19  1862 2063 −201    14
13 Pajukas Grenadiers     26    6  20  1895 2091 −196    12
14 Tikhovesi Tigers       26    3  23  1817 2229 −412     6

Second part of the Season

.  Leader Group          Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts 
 1 Kuranki Knights        26   20   6  2072 1868 +204    40    Qualified for the play-offs
 2 Somlhus Sharks         26   19   7  1972 1819 +153    38    Qualified for the play-offs
 3 Torspeda Toros         26   19   7  2026 1878 +148    38    Qualified for the play-offs
 4 Vannarby Kaisers       26   16  10  2088 1883 +205    32    Qualified for the play-offs
 5 Vadshult Vikings       26   15  11  1970 1887  +83    30    Qualified for the play-offs
 6 Alliance Grozno        26   14  12  1938 1971  −33    28    Qualified for the play-offs
 7 Poseidon Pallstadt     26   14  12  2005 2063  −58    28    Qualified for the play-offs
 8 Dyatinsk Basket        26   13  13  1954 1913  +41    26
 9 Avanti Avikehti        26   13  13  1968 1965   +3    26
10 Pajukas Panzers        26   12  14  2002 1947  +55    24
11 Wladica Dunk           26   10  16  1882 2040 −158    20
12 Silduvne Savior        26    7  19  1848 2053 −205    14
13 Rellhovn Gigants       26    6  20  1827 1974 −147    12
14 Pelta Buccaneers       26    4  22  1758 2049 −291     8

.  Runner up group       Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts 
 1 Kallsmudden Titans     26   22   4  2052 1803 +249    44   Qualified for the play-offs
 2 Double Paszai          26   19   7  2133 1940 +193    38
 3 Grephel Raptors        26   18   8  2098 1929 +169    36
 4 Ernesse Guardians      26   16  10  2052 1874 +178    32
 5 Bengtsmark BC          26   15  11  2054 1902 +152    30
 6 Druzhna Fire           26   14  12  1942 1937   +5    28
 7 Uraugai Vandals        26   13  13  1950 1952   −2    26
 8 Hoyersko Stars         26   12  14  1955 1963   −8    24
 9 Basket Blimt           26   11  15  1982 2018  −36    22
10 Nalsjo Miners          26   11  15  1917 1970  −53    22
11 Harseni Hammers        26   11  15  1968 2084 −116    22
12 Pajukas Grenadiers     26    7  19  1866 2064 −198    14
13 Tikhovesi Tigers       26    7  19  1789 2044 −255    14
14 Demolition Siklapaa    26    6  20  1862 2140 −278    12

Quarterfinals

Kuranki Knights 97–76 Kallsmudden Titans
Kallsmudden Titans 67–84 Kuranki Knights
Kuranki Knights 98–74 Kallsmudden Titans

The Knights had little trouble with Kallsmudden and demonstrate why they form a worthy opponent for the title.

Somlhus Sharks 80–74 Poseidon Pallstadt
Poseidon Pallstadt 81–92 Somlhus Sharks
Somlhus Sharks 62–58 Poseidon Pallstadt

After a moderate second part of the season, Dimitri Werfel demonstrated who still were the best side in the nation.

Torspeda Toros 74–78 Alliance Grozno
Alliance Grozno 79–78 Torspeda Toros
Torspeda Toros 78–64 Alliance Grozno
Alliance Grozno 84–71 Torspeda Toros

Alliance Grozno becomes the surprise of the season, qualifying for the IUBC tournaments.

Vannarby Kaisers 77–74 Vadshult Vikings
Vadshult Vikings 72–60 Vannarby Kaisers
Vannarby Kaisers 67–55 Vadshult Vikings
Vadshult Vikings 73–93 Vannarby Kaisers

No question upon who rules in this Mullsphall derby, the Kaisers show why they were semi-finalists of the Falcon Plate last year.

Semi-finals

Kuranki Knights 77–80 Vannarby Kaisers
Vannarby Kaisers 77–64 Kuranki Knights
Kuranki Knights 80–69 Vannarby Kaisers
Vannarby Kaisers 66–88 Kuranki Knights
Kuranki Knights 74–68 Vannarby Kaisers

The always tense duel between Kuranki and Vannarby is a repeat of last year's fight for a spot in the final. Once again, Kuranki makes it in the last game.

Somlhus Sharks 66–78 Alliance Grozno
Alliance Grozno 90–82 Somlhus Sharks
Somlhus Sharks 73–76 Alliance Grozno

Astonishment on all benches. Somlhus might have made the final of the Trophy of Champions, but falls domestically against Alliance Grozno.

Finals

Kuranki Knights 82–77 Alliance Grozno
Alliance Grozno 60–93 Kuranki Knights
Kuranki Knights 80–76 Alliance Grozno

The Alliance can look back at an astonishing season, but the Knights were too strong in the finals.

[Buyan]

PURC 5

The second edition of the PURC was a mesmerizing experience. Halfway, everything still was possible as Fram Kallsmudden, Tikhovesi RK, Zeimgava Warriors and the Bengtsmark Braves still were to be found within four points of one another, one defeat could mean the end of anyone’s title ambitions. The disappointment was UTR, who not only couldn’t perform in the Seasogs were they lost on all occasions against the Harlequins, Jalakra Jaguars and R.K. Hsluuchya, but also were found in a lacklustre sixth position. It even went worse for Harseni, who couldn’t find their first victory but on match day twelve.

Nonetheless, Harseni would park in last position. In the meanwhile, both Fram and Zeimgava started to lose the important duels against the Braves and Tikhovesi and it became clear that these two would battle it out. The penultimate match day saw the ultimate chance for the Braves, but Tikhovesi was much calmer in the Samlstadi and ended a great season, which saw them as only Buyanese side in the round of sixteen of the Seasogs, with a 28-20 against their yellow opponents. The first title was a fact, Mart Aus could celebrate his retirement in style, definitively entering the pantheon of the greats. Bengtsmark easily landed in second spot and a good sprint in the final four games allowed Fram to join them in the Seasogs. The fourth contestant wouldn’t be Zeimgava, despite a good season, as they lost their ultimate match in the Parkstadion in Siklapaa. UTR gets their ticket after all, but realises it is time for a new generation.

...PURC5                 Pld    W   D   L  EP  PF   PA    PD   Pts 
 1 Tikhovesi RK           16   13   0   3   5 320  159  +161    57
 2 Bengtsmark Braves      16   11   1   4   3 296  161  +135    49
 3 Fram Kallsmudden       16   10   0   6   3 233  186   +47    43
 4 UTR Pajukas            16    8   1   7   5 284  214   +70    39
 5 Zeimgava Warriors      16    9   0   7   1 213  209    +4    37
 6 Jurbiskis Wisents      16    6   1   9   5 170  208   −38    31
 7 Wladica Rugby Club     16    5   1  10   4 161  259   −98    26
 8 Sisu Siklapaa          16    5   0  11   1 190  295  −105    21
 9 Fortuna Harseni        16    3   0  13   1 166  342  −176    13

[Buyan]

2017

Buyanese Abroad

Working on it, mate.

[Buyan]

2017

Preview

Working on it, mate.

[Buyan]

2017

International Occasions

The Fifty-Second Champions’ Cup

First Preliminary Round

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Nexxie United 2-0 (54' Mynatt, 77' Daukas)
Nexxie United - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0-1 (14' Bartkus)

Second Preliminary Round

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Burth 4-1 (22' Ptak, 29' Ptak, 43' X, 85' Mynatt, 92' Delafuente)
Burth - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2-0 (8' X, 59' X)

Play-off Round

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - CA Paulinthal 2-2 (43' Ptak, 73' X, 79' Ruotsalainen, 88' X)
CA Paulinthal - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2-1 (12' X, 34' X, 78' Delafuente)

The Forty-Ninth Globe Cup

First Preliminary Round

Virçao FC - Pajukas Sport 2-3 (18' Gudaitis, 34' Losokov, 55' X, 59' Anselm, 83' X)
Pajukas Sport - Virçao FC 2-1 (2' Amundsen, 43' X, 88' Gudaitis)

Second Preliminary Round

Nostromo Meteorites - Pajukas Sport 2-1 (23' X, 83' X, 90' Vilkas)
Pajukas Sport - Nostromo Meteorites 3-1

Spore - Bengtsmark IF 1-2
Bengtsmark IF - Spore 1-2 (pen. 3-0)

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt - FC Leon 2-0
FC Leon - Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 1-1

Play-off Round

Oldcastle United - Bengtsmark IF 0-1
Bengtsmark IF - Oldcastle United 3-0

Directus - Pajukas Sport 5-0
Pajukas Sport - Directus 1-1

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt - SC Cascadia 1-1
SC Cascadia - Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 2-3

Qualifying Round

Bengtsmark IF - New Haverford Albion 0-0
New Haverford Albion - Bengtsmark IF 1-2

Kagoshima Phoenix - Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 4-0
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt - Kagoshima Phoenix 2-2

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Tyrellia Titans 3-0
Tyrellia Titans - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0-2

Group F

Bengtsmark IF - Sporting Iturributa 0-0
Rogglebu TU - Bengtsmark IF 2-0
Spartangrad - Bengtsmark IF 1-0
Bengtsmark IF - Spartangrad 1-3
Sporting Iturributa - Bengtsmark IF 4-1
Bengtsmark IF - Rogglebu TU 1-2

Group H

Norrion Rovers - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0-0
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Granger Dragonites 1-0
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Navel FC 3-2
Navel FC - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1-3
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Norrion Rovers 1-0
Granger Dragonites - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 3-3

First Knockout Round

Directus - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0-0
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Directus 2-0

Second Knockout Round

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - FC Endeavour 2-2
FC Endeavour - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0-3

Quarterfinals

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Maethorü 4-1
Maethorü - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1-2

Semi-Finals

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Medoria Löwen 1-0
Medoria Löwen - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2-2

Final@ Big Top, Pavillion, TIS

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Lylat Starfox 2-0 (64' Delafuente, 85' Wreczius)

The Forty-Ninth Series B Champions’ Cup

First Preliminary Round

Basabe Old Boys - Asociacija Uraugai 0-1
Asociacija Uraugai - Basabe Old Boys 2-2

Second Preliminary Round

FC Jokolim - Onwards Hollkoping 2-4
Onwards Hollkoping - FC Jokolim 1-0

Slask Pruczwiczo - Ungalb Gultpyret 2-3
Ungalb Gultpyret - Slask Pruczwiczo 1-0

Noka Mariners - Asociacija Uraugai 0-0
Asociacija Uraugai - Noka Mariners 2-2

Play-off Round

Rammsissil - Onwards Hollkoping 4-1
Onwards Hollkoping - Rammsissil 0-1

The Forty-Ninth Super Cup

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Army United 1-2
1896 Ebor - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0-1

The Twenty-Seventh Cup Winners' Cup

First Round

FC Atlantis - Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 2-2
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt - FC Atlantis 1-1

Round of 16

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt - SK Franz Jozef City 1-4
SK Franz Jozef City - Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0-0


[quote="Sangti";p="18868166"]

EDITION IX

Preliminary Round

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt - Torreos de Torreon 2-0

First Round

Empilot United - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0-2

Lylat Starfox - Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0-3

Round of Sixteen

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Oldcastle United 3-0

Quarterfinals

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Sporting Volker 3-0

Semi-final

FC Nova Tunis - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1-1 (1–1 AET) (4–5 pen.)

Final

Lylat Starfox - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1-2

[Buyan]

2017

President's Cup

Quarterfinals

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko (2–0 AET)
Seura Pohkakunti 1–2 Thor Rellhovn
Bengtsmark IF 2–3 Sparta Torspeda
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1–1 Ernesse Stahl (2–1 AET)

Semi-finals

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 3–0 Thor Rellhovn
Bengtsmark IF 1–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (1–1 AET) (3–2 pen.)

Final

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 1–2 Bengtsmark IF

[Buyan]

2017

Lower Divisions

Working on it, mate.

[Buyan]

2017

Top Division

MD1

Tjelberg Forening 1–1 Seura Pohkakunti
Bengtsmark IF 1–1 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Sparta Torspeda 0–1 Welanduz Vadshult
IFK Pollmarnang 0–3 Pajukas Sport
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1–1 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Garbarnia Hoyersko 3–0 Haljo Vannarby

MD2

Seura Pohkakunti 2–0 Haljo Vannarby
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 1–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Pajukas Sport 1–0 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Welanduz Vadshult 2–2 IFK Pollmarnang
Jottnar Kallsmudden 0–1 Sparta Torspeda
Tjelberg Forening 2–1 Bengtsmark IF

MD3

Bengtsmark IF 4–3 Seura Pohkakunti
Sparta Torspeda 0–1 Tjelberg Forening
IFK Pollmarnang 2–4 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 3–1 Welanduz Vadshult
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–1 Pajukas Sport
Haljo Vannarby 1–4 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt

MD4

Seura Pohkakunti 0–1 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Pajukas Sport 2–2 Haljo Vannarby
Welanduz Vadshult 1–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Jottnar Kallsmudden 3–0 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Tjelberg Forening 0–1 IFK Pollmarnang
Bengtsmark IF 4–0 Sparta Torspeda

MD5

Sparta Torspeda 1–2 Seura Pohkakunti
IFK Pollmarnang 0–1 Bengtsmark IF
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2–2 Tjelberg Forening
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–0 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Haljo Vannarby 1–0 Welanduz Vadshult
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0–1 Pajukas Sport

MD6

Seura Pohkakunti 0–0 Pajukas Sport
Welanduz Vadshult 2–1 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Jottnar Kallsmudden 1–0 Haljo Vannarby
Tjelberg Forening 0–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Bengtsmark IF 1–4 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Sparta Torspeda 2–2 IFK Pollmarnang

MD7

IFK Pollmarnang 0–2 Seura Pohkakunti
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 3–0 Sparta Torspeda
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–1 Bengtsmark IF
Haljo Vannarby 2–4 Tjelberg Forening
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 1–0 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Pajukas Sport 4–0 Welanduz Vadshult

MD8

Seura Pohkakunti 0–4 Welanduz Vadshult
Jottnar Kallsmudden 0–0 Pajukas Sport
Tjelberg Forening 2–2 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Bengtsmark IF 4–0 Haljo Vannarby
Sparta Torspeda 1–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko
IFK Pollmarnang 0–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis

MD9

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0–1 Seura Pohkakunti
Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–0 IFK Pollmarnang
Haljo Vannarby 0–1 Sparta Torspeda
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 2–3 Bengtsmark IF
Pajukas Sport 1–0 Tjelberg Forening
Welanduz Vadshult 2–2 Jottnar Kallsmudden

MD10

Seura Pohkakunti 0–1 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Tjelberg Forening 1–0 Welanduz Vadshult
Bengtsmark IF 1–1 Pajukas Sport
Sparta Torspeda 1–3 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
IFK Pollmarnang 0–0 Haljo Vannarby
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 3–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko

MD11

Garbarnia Hoyersko 3–1 Seura Pohkakunti
Haljo Vannarby 2–2 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 2–0 IFK Pollmarnang
Pajukas Sport 0–1 Sparta Torspeda
Welanduz Vadshult 0–1 Bengtsmark IF
Jottnar Kallsmudden 0–1 Tjelberg Forening

Table half-way

...Top Division             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   Pts 
 1 Bengtsmark IF             11    7   2   2    22   13    23
 2 Pajukas Sport             11    6   4   1    14    4    22
 3 Tjelberg Forening         11    5   4   2    14   10    19
 4 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis   11    5   3   3    19   13    18
 5 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt      11    5   3   3    18   12    18
 6 Jottnar Kallsmudden       11    4   4   3    12    8    16
 7 Seura Pohkakunti          11    4   2   5    12   15    14
 8 Sparta Torspeda           11    4   1   6     8   16    13
 9 Garbarnia Hoyersko        11    3   4   4    10    9    13
10 Welanduz Vadshult         11    3   3   5    13   16    12
11 Haljo Vannarby            11    1   3   7     8   23     6
12 IFK Pollmarnang           11    1   3   7     7   18     6

MD12

Seura Pohkakunti 0–1 Tjelberg Forening
Jottnar Kallsmudden 1–0 Bengtsmark IF
Welanduz Vadshult 1–2 Sparta Torspeda
Pajukas Sport 0–0 IFK Pollmarnang
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Haljo Vannarby 1–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko

MD13

Haljo Vannarby 2–1 Seura Pohkakunti
Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–0 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0–1 Pajukas Sport
IFK Pollmarnang 1–3 Welanduz Vadshult
Sparta Torspeda 0–0 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Bengtsmark IF 0–1 Tjelberg Forening

MD14

Seura Pohkakunti 0–2 Bengtsmark IF
Tjelberg Forening 0–1 Sparta Torspeda
Jottnar Kallsmudden 2–3 IFK Pollmarnang
Welanduz Vadshult 0–3 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Pajukas Sport 0–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 3–2 Haljo Vannarby

MD15

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 3–0 Seura Pohkakunti
Haljo Vannarby 1–0 Pajukas Sport
Garbarnia Hoyersko 2–0 Welanduz Vadshult
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 3–0 Jottnar Kallsmudden
IFK Pollmarnang 1–1 Tjelberg Forening
Sparta Torspeda 0–1 Bengtsmark IF

MD16

Seura Pohkakunti 1–2 Sparta Torspeda
Bengtsmark IF 1–2 IFK Pollmarnang
Tjelberg Forening 2–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Jottnar Kallsmudden 0–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Welanduz Vadshult 0–2 Haljo Vannarby
Pajukas Sport 1–0 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt

MD17

Pajukas Sport 1–0 Seura Pohkakunti
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 1–1 Welanduz Vadshult
Haljo Vannarby 3–2 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–0 Tjelberg Forening
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1–0 Bengtsmark IF
IFK Pollmarnang 2–2 Sparta Torspeda

MD18

Seura Pohkakunti 2–2 IFK Pollmarnang
Sparta Torspeda 1–3 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Bengtsmark IF 1–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Tjelberg Forening 0–1 Haljo Vannarby
Jottnar Kallsmudden 3–2 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Welanduz Vadshult 1–0 Pajukas Sport

MD19

Welanduz Vadshult 0–1 Seura Pohkakunti
Pajukas Sport 1–0 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0–1 Tjelberg Forening
Haljo Vannarby 1–0 Bengtsmark IF
Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–2 Sparta Torspeda
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2–0 IFK Pollmarnang

MD20

Seura Pohkakunti 2–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
IFK Pollmarnang 2–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Sparta Torspeda 0–0 Haljo Vannarby
Bengtsmark IF 4–0 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Tjelberg Forening 0–0 Pajukas Sport
Jottnar Kallsmudden 2–0 Welanduz Vadshult

MD21

Jottnar Kallsmudden 4–2 Seura Pohkakunti
Welanduz Vadshult 1–0 Tjelberg Forening
Pajukas Sport 2–4 Bengtsmark IF
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 2–2 Sparta Torspeda
Haljo Vannarby 0–1 IFK Pollmarnang
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–3 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis

MD22

Seura Pohkakunti 0–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 3–0 Haljo Vannarby
IFK Pollmarnang 1–1 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Sparta Torspeda 2–1 Pajukas Sport
Bengtsmark IF 1–2 Welanduz Vadshult
Tjelberg Forening 0–0 Jottnar Kallsmudden

Final Table

...Top Division             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   Pts 
 1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis   22   13   3   6    40   19    42
 2 Pajukas Sport             22   10   7   5    21   12    37
 3 Bengtsmark IF             22   11   3   8    36   24    36
 4 Tjelberg Forening         22    9   7   6    20   16    34
 5 Sparta Torspeda           22    9   5   8    22   28    32
 6 Jottnar Kallsmudden       22    8   6   8    26   23    30
 7 Haljo Vannarby            22    8   4  10    21   33    28
 8 Garbarnia Hoyersko        22    7   7   8    18   18    28
 9 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt      22    7   6   9    30   29    27
10 Welanduz Vadshult         22    7   4  11    22   31    25
11 IFK Pollmarnang           22    5   8   9    22   33    23
12 Seura Pohkakunti          22    6   4  12    21   33    22

[Buyan]

...PURC6                 Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts 
 1 UTR Pajukas            18   12   1   5   339  183 +156    50
 2 Tikhovesi RK           18   12   0   6   267  202  +65    48
 3 Sisu Siklapaa          18   10   1   7   248  254   −6    42
 4 Bengtsmark Braves      18   10   1   7   290  237  +53    42
 5 Zeimgava Warriors      18    9   1   8   187  180   +7    38
 6 Fram Kallsmudden       18    9   1   8   254  195  +59    38
 7 Fortuna Harseni        18    7   3   8   225  282  −57    34
 8 Wladica Rugby Club     18    8   0  10   255  313  −58    32
 9 Jurbiskis Wisents      18    7   0  11   183  208  −25    28
10 Spartakus Vannarby     18    2   0  16   176  370 −194     8

UTR might have come out of a lousy period, they picked themselves up, dusted themselves off and placed their first PURC in the gallery. Tikhovesi confirms their semi-final in the Seasogs by grabbing second place. The remaining bunch got tied up in a close fight, with the Braves and Sisu Siklapaa ending up on top despite being respectivally 8th and 6th half-way. The fans will note that a tenth team has joined the league, Spartakus Vannarby survived their first season, but only barely.

[Buyan]

New Sideburn’s Cloaker: for providing me with such magnificent kits
Equestrian States: for the use of his magnificent small-flags series.
Equestrian States, Taijan, The Royal Barangay, Felix, Mytannion, San Jose Guayabal, Earent, Farfadillis, Apox & Nephara: for having one or more of my players over.
Apox, German American States, Taijan, Northern Sunrise Islands, Zwangzug, the Sarian, Mytannion, Farfadillis, Yttribia, Equestrian States, Paradystopia, Felix, Nephara, Astograth, San Jose Guayabal & Nouvel Ecosse: for lending me a player.
You: for reading this.

If you want to exchange players, don’t hesitate to TG.
If your nation or something of your nation has been mentioned incorrectly (b.e. in the UICA part), don’t hesitate to TG.

Top Division Teams 2019

Bengtsmark IF

Home Stadium: Havssidanstadion (15.000 seats) in Bengtsmark, Mullsphall (455.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 1st in the Top Division
Manager: Derrik Markushovn (53)
Starting XI: Saldlund – Hjortsberg, Mamontovas, Englund, Relling – Naess, Zunzarren (ASG), Schi (ZWG) – Maniche (SAP), Mattisson, Paulas
Conclusion: Last year, this side has finally reached their full proficiency. While young defenders Hjortsberg and Mamontovas reached their full capacity, the midfield balance between Schi and Zunzarren has reached its zenit. The movement of Maniche and Paulas around the tall Mattisson makes them a major candidate for the title. New signing Relling should be the completion of this side.

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt

Home Stadium: Unter dem Linden (10.500 seats) in Pallstadt, Trovne (70.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 3rd in the Top Division
Manager: Helmut Kullersdorf (56)
Starting XI: Erhardt – Orani (APX), Maurer (MYT), Milosevici (NEC), Vrintz – Hinze, Hueppe, Kauppi, Kluszak -- Dalmshelf, The Heroic
Conclusion: This is a more than capable side, the only worries are about the aging Peco Hinze, who appears to lack the pace for the highest level. Duco Dalmshelf, almost topscorer last season with thirteen goals, is a danger for any team and Piotr Kluszak might be the most reverred player in the competition. We believe this side could take that extra step for glory, but it will ask for more quality when it comes to attacking.

Garbarnia Hoyersko

Home Stadium: Aleja Lipowa (8.100 seats) in Hoyersko, Serkau (165.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 9th in the Top Division
Manager: Samuel Libanovich (59)
Starting XI: Seber – Adamski, Bytnar, Chmielewski, P. Szylarsz – Martinek, Graucis, Gruzek, Czarny – L. Szylarsz, Kaczor
Conclusion: The recipe fort his team is rather limited and over the past few years, it has been the class of some individuals that made the difference. Goalie Seber and Jaro Martinek, not to name the least. The loss of Alowysz Krupa, the reliable left back who retired, might present quite a challenge for the Tanners. We still can’t shake off the feeling that the lack of class on the midfield will make it hard to compete for the first six, but if youngster Kaczor continues his evolution, they might surprise.

Haljo Vannarby

Home Stadium: A. Holmarena (6.500 seats) in Vannarby, Mullsphall (120.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 6th in the Top Division
Manager: Sven Halmund (43)
Starting XI: Hawke (NEP) -- Hulsvist, Eriksson, Silich, Skoglund -- Jeppson, Goretzka, Svensson, Stown (ARK) -- Hammund, Ostlund
Conclusion: The sixth place last season remains kind of a miracle, although the influence of Zooey Stown cannot be underestimated. Surrounded with young players, the Arkan heroine forms the linchpin in this formation. However, the question remains how Haljo will deal with the departure of their more experienced defenders, such as Hakansson and Brolmark. With Hawke not getting younger as well, they might be up for a very difficult season.

Jottnar Kallsmudden

Home Stadium: Vingardarena (17.000 seats) in Kallsmudden, Ravnar (415.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 8th in the Top Division
Manager: Freddi Ulvan (51)
Starting XI: Remer -- Castberg, Czovlap, Giertych, Burnar -- Konarski, Venclova, Kluwshavl -- Stacks (SAR), Konopka, Niceforski
Conclusion: It remains impossible for Jottnar to return to their former status of great power in the Top Division. The changes in personnel, now again with the departure of Valeri Salnikov, have prevented them from reaching the highest level. Still, we feel that the talent present should allow them a recovery, however it might depend upon the new Remer on goal. If he can finally provide the long-sought replacement for Anders Bergh, we might see their interesting midfield trio finally shine.

Pajukas Sport

Home Stadium: Bokstasstadion (8.400 seats) in Pajukas, Valneda (655.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 11th in the Top Division
Manager: Valdas Tomascevicius (41)
Starting XI: Valadius -- Petricius, Nojas, Martyn (NEP), Thorup -- Amundsen (APX), Wladecki, Anselm (FEL), Losokov, Salnikov -- Gudaitis
Conclusion: It remains half a miracle how Pajukas survived last season and eventually earned their first price, a President’s Cup. Halfway, Sport had assembled only eight points, suffering from a string of injuries, not in the least of the all-important Amundsen. With the addition of Valeri Salnikov and the amount of young, gifted players present, Pajukas might challenge for the Globe Cup again. Valadius has earned some extra credit lately, the defense is sturdy and the midfield is an eye-opener.

Seura Pohkakunti

Home Stadium: Paraati Areenalla (6.300 seats) in Pohkakunti, Haemiilu (45.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 1th in the Second Division East
Manager: Paavo Rinne (43)
Starting XI: Ruhvianen -- Saari, Kohlemainen, Ruutu, Sillema -- Vanhanen, Vehvilianen, Kuusi, Rydell -- Haglund, Pajari
Conclusion: Being condemned to the Second Division last season, Rinne made a fierce decision, resulting in a team in which - apart from captain Saari - everyone is 24 years old or younger. The White Kids, as they were dubbed, lived up to that call by grabbing the title. It still remains a question if they can do the same in the Top Division, but their enthusiasm and creativity is contagious. The rather dull, conservative side we remember is again and although we expect beginner mistakes, they’re an addition to the league.

Slask Pruczniwco

Home Stadium: The Ring (5.000 seats) in Pruczniwczo, Baskin (55.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 7th in the Top Division
Manager: Pavel Guciek (49)
Starting XI: Bogusz -- M. Dziuba, Zewlak, Rovnas, E. Dziuba -- Schulewski, Razevli, Pérez (SJG), Kruger -- Skulason, Poluceck
Conclusion: Three interesting transfers, namely Marcos Pérez of the relegated IFK Pollmarnang, Francziszek Bogusz of Ciegnalki Motor and Povilas Rovnas of Viztourzys Kolektyvinis, make this a remarkable outsider for the Globe Cup places, lead by the young and inspiring Maxim Dziuba. Slask, known its powerful and at times rough football truely became an addition to the Top Division. If Poluceck and the young Livna can find the right connection, they will pose a threat to many defenses.

Sparta Torspeda

Home Stadium: Pergale Stadionas (7.000 seats) in Torspeda, Valneda (175.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 4th in the Top Division
Manager: Linas Stutkus (61)
Starting XI: Sakalauskas -- Vaisvila, Ceslovas, Somoza (NSI), Karosas -- Plovnarov, Suhr, Kubilius, Vazinskis -- Norkus, Pentanen (MYT)
Description of team: The Orange Brigade, once stuck in the lower divisions, truely became a household name in the Top Division. Former winners of the Cup, they amazed the crowd with their qualification to the Globe Cup, despite only having one real superstar amongst their ranks. Pentanen did provide the necessary goals and we can’t mention enough that the growth of Plovnarov shouldn’t be underestimated. Still a side that can win against everyone.

Tjelberg Forening

Home Stadium: Den Dam (9.800 seats) in Tjellberg, Ravnar (120.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 5th in the Top Division
Manager: Dejan Heibye (50)
Starting XI: Angst -- Sparre, Asmussen, H. Thorup, Refshauge -- Eskildsen, Kubik, Kondrashov (MYT) -- Moen, Sihvola, Ostergaard
Description of team: Tjelberg made an interesting evolution over the past few years. Grown from a moderate side into a challenger, they can now pride themselves upon being the main side of Tjelberg. The addition of Sihvola as striker with the vibrant Moen and Ostergaard circling around him, all being provided by Kondrashov with passes, created a team that ensured constant danger to their opponents. Only the rather moderate defense disallows them a spot amongst the really great teams.

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis

Home Stadium: Nova Pylimasstadionas (15.500 seats) in Viztourzys, Valneda (115.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 2nd in the Top Division
Manager: Edgaras Zarnevidis (47)
Starting XI: Schmidt -- Zemaitis, Firecrest (CRP), Bartkus, Justs -- Egilius, Lupeikis, Lammerschon, Delafuente (FFD) -- Ptak, Hostmann
Conclusion: The Red Machine might well be the most talented eleven in the nation, yet they failed to deliver this time around as a second place is nothing less than a disgrace for the troops of Zarnevidis. Yet they had plenty of excuses, as Firecrest struggled with injuries and the moderate bench couldn’t replace the kilometer biter. With young guys like Egilius and Hostmann having earned an extra year, along with national topscorer Jochen Ptak growing, they might be once again favourite for the highest glory.

Welanduz Vadshult

Home Stadium: Lyckastadion (4.600 seats) in Vadshult, Mullsphall (490.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 10th in the Top Division
Manager: Jonas Ellering (54)
Starting XI: Widforss -- Stenbeck, Skarsgard, Brodd, Friberg -- Palm, Prinsen, Sture, Gelson -- Hammargren, Liepa
Conclusion: Welanduz will never be the most exciting side of the league and they lived up to that last time around. Then again, they have two promising midfielders with Sigi Prinsen and Dan Gelson. On top of that, the people in the Lyckastadion can welcome Liepa, a youngster that was barred in Viztourzys but should have the skill to step up. We fear that they might battle relegation this season, the defense isn’t the strongest in the league.

[Buyan]

Buyanese Abroad Tracker

Damien Balnerii      Retatyn TU (EAR)
    8th in the Competition

Marco Castell        Canterlot Royals (EQS)
    4th in the Competition
    Out before quarterfinals in the Cup
    Out in the Third preliminary round in the Globe Cup

Sverre Devold        Barbury Town (APX)
    Champion in the Competition
    Winner of the Cup
    Semifinals in the Champions’ Cup
    Winner of the Cygnus Cup
    Finalist in the CEdC
    Strong season, with a goal in the Cup Final
    Golden Buyanese Abroad of the year

Klas Grobanov        Oxford City (FEL)
    Champion in the Second Division
    Third preliminary round in the Series B Cup

Eero Halmiini        FC Ararat Severyan (MYT)
    Competition halted whilst standing 10th

Elmo Havelund        AFC Integabad (NEP)
    13th in the Competition
    Second round in the Cup
    18 goals

Crassus Hopp         FC Nova Tunis (TAI)
    Competition suspended due to internal issues

Espen Knutsen        Crisisbless (NEP)
    2nd in the Competition
    Third round in the Cup
    First Knockout Round in the Globe Cup
    Part of the Team of the Year
    Silver Buyanese Abroad of the Year

Andrey Rettinger     Goodfeather FC (NEP)
    7th in the Competition
    Second round in the Cup
    19 goals

Ignas Smetona        Santa Tecla (SJG)
    2nd in the Competition
    Santa Tecla Player of the Year

Sigurd Tufte         Dinamo Esca (MYT)
    Competition halted whilst standing 6th

Frederik Wallenberg  Avenida Leal (FRF)
    4th in the Competition
    Play-off round in the Globe Cup

Quinten Zermin       Carrubonieta Il Gueti (TRB)
    4th in the Competition
    Out in third round in the Cup
    First preliminary round in the Globe Cup
    7 goals and part of the selection of the season
    Bronze Buyanese Abroad of the Year

Second Divisions

...South                  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   Pts 
 1 Thor Rellhovn           22   13   4   5    36   21    43   Q
 2 Gornik Wladica          22   11   6   5    47   30    39
 3 Mechler Fusscollectiv   22   10   5   7    29   23    35
 4 Fiarsdal Forening       22   10   3   9    30   27    33
 5 Ruch Siepoclawycz       22    9   4   9    38   38    31
 6 Kaemper Norderud        22   10   0  12    29   38    30
 7 Mirzich Jedenascie      22    9   3  10    24   27    30
 8 Hretha Somlhus          22    8   6   8    32   31    30
 9 Ernesse Stahl           22    7   7   8    32   36    28
10 Virksomhet Stovsand     22    6   8   8    28   31    26
11 Feldhammer Havik        22    5   6  11    24   39    21
12 Daring Knavca           22    5   6  11    22   30    21

...East                   Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   Pts 
 1 Linnameeskond Harseni   22   11   6   5    43   22    39   Q
 2 Druzhna Rovers          22   10   7   5    28   22    37
 3 Ciegnalki Motor         22   10   4   8    35   26    34
 4 Asociacija Uraugai      22    8   8   6    36   34    32
 5 Siklapaa Jalkapallo     22    9   5   8    33   32    32
 6 Kuinopi Club            22    8   7   7    34   30    31
 7 JX Jurbiskis            22    8   7   7    33   35    31
 8 22. Czerwiec Grozno     22    8   5   9    36   41    29
 9 Paszai Association      22    7   6   9    27   38    27
10 Pelta Union             22    7   6   9    31   32    27
11 Hattrick Zeimgava       22    5  10   7    32   36    25
12 FC Pajukas              22    3   5  14    36   56    14

...North                  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   Pts 
 1 Tillsamman Stensund     22   13   4   5    40   17    43   Q
 2 Onwards Hollkoping      22   13   2   7    41   29    41
 3 Aigil Grephel           22   11   7   4    35   24    40
 4 Tjallimvarn Kickers     22   10   4   8    27   27    34
 5 Grephel Gryphionen      22   10   4   8    26   23    34
 6 IFK Pollmarnang         22    9   6   7    35   29    33
 7 Grunshoffer Allianz     22    8   7   7    31   35    31
 8 AA Vadshult             22    8   5   9    21   25    29
 9 Quellsfeld Freunde      22    6   8   8    28   31    26
10 Phonix Darvell          22    7   4  11    31   39    25
11 Forbund Bengtsmark      22    5   5  12    24   35    20
12 FV Vannarby             22    2   4  16    21   46    10

President’s Cup

First Round

.   Hattrick Zeimgava 2–5 AA Vadshult
  Grunshoffer Allianz 2–2 Tjallimvarn Kickers (2–2 AET) (3–0 pen.)
        Ernesse Stahl 0–1 Virksomhet Stovsand
           FC Pajukas 1–2 Onwards Hollkoping
     Feldhammer Havik 1–4 Ciegnalki Motor
          Pelta Union 0–2 Aigil Grephel
   Forbund Bengtsmark 1–1 Grephel Gryphionen  (2–1 AET)
Mechler Fusscollectiv 1–0 Kaemper Norderud
          FV Vannarby 4–2 Phonix Darvell
  22. Czerwiec Grozno 2–1 Ruch Siepoclawycz
         Kuinopi Club 2–2 Mirzich Jedenascie  (3–3 AET) (2–3 pen.)
        Daring Knavca 1–3 Asociacija Uraugai
       Hretha Somlhus 0–4 Siklapaa Jalkapallo
   Quellsfeld Freunde 1–1 Druzhna Rovers      (2–2 AET) (4–5 pen.)
    Fiarsdal Forening 2–1 JX Jurbiskis
Linnameeskond Harseni 4–1 Paszai Association

Second Round

.       Aigil Grephel 2–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Mechler Fusscollectiv 0–4 Bengtsmark IF
 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 1–1 Mirzich Jedenascie      (1–1 AET) (0–3 pen.)
        Thor Rellhovn 1–3 Virksomhet Stovsand
  Grunshoffer Allianz 0–2 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
       Haljo Vannarby 1–1 Onwards Hollkoping      (2–2 AET) (2–4 pen.)
   Forbund Bengtsmark 1–0 Welanduz Vadshult
Linnameeskond Harseni 4–3 Tjelberg Forening
   Asociacija Uraugai 0–1 Fiarsdal Forening
          FV Vannarby 1–3 IFK Pollmarnang
       Gornik Wladica 2–0 Slask Pruzniwczo
  Tillsamman Stensund 1–1 Jottnar Kallsmudden     (1–1 AET) (3–1 pen.)
          AA Vadshult 2–0 Druzhna Rovers
      Sparta Torspeda 4–2 Ciegnalki Motor
        Pajukas Sport 3–3 Siklapaa Jalkapallo     (3–3 AET) (2–3 pen.)
     Seura Pohkakunti 2–1 22. Czerwiec Grozno

Third Round

.         Aigil Grephel 0–2 Bengtsmark IF
     Mirzich Jedenascie 0–1 Virksomhet Stovsand
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 3–0 Onwards Hollkoping
     Forbund Bengtsmark 1–2 Linnameeskond Harseni
      Fiarsdal Forening 2–2 IFK Pollmarnang       (3–2 AET)
         Gornik Wladica 3–4 Tillsamman Stensund
            AA Vadshult 0–2 Sparta Torspeda
    Siklapaa Jalkapallo 1–1 Seura Pohkakunti      (1–2 AET)

Quarterfinals

.         Bengtsmark IF 5–2 Virksomhet Stovsand
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1–0 Linnameeskond Harseni
      Fiarsdal Forening 1–2 Tillsamman Stensund
        Sparta Torspeda 0–1 Seura Pohkakunti

Semifinals

.         Bengtsmark IF 5–4 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
    Tillsamman Stensund 0–2 Seura Pohkakunti

Cup Final

Bengtsmark IF 2
(34’ Schi, 78’ Ullsmang)
-
Seura Pohkakunti 0

International Tournaments

The Fifty-Fourth Champions’ Cup

Second Preliminary Round

Crisisbless (NSB) - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2-2 (29’ X, 54’ Delafuente, 77’ Ptak, 82’ X)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Crisisbless (NSB) 3-1 (13’ Hostmann, 23’ Delafuente, 58’ Ptak, 84’ X)

Third Preliminary Round

Salvador FC (TSA) - Bengtsmark IF 1-1 (25’ X, 53’ Maniche)
Bengtsmark IF - Salvador FC (TSA) 1-0 (76’ Paulas)

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Mar Sara FC (VAL) 2-2 (2’ X, 42’ Lammerschon, 81’ X, 89’ Ptak)
Mar Sara FC (VAL) - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1-1 (35’ Bartkus, 91’ X)

Play-off Round

Real Santa Maria (FEL) - Bengtsmark IF 3-3 (13’ X, 22’ X, 43’ Schi, 49’ X, 65’ Naess, 85’ Mattisson)
Bengtsmark IF - Real Santa Maria (FEL) 1-2 (63’ Zunzarren, 74’ X, 88’ X)

The Fifty-First Globe Cup

First Preliminary Round

Tjelberg Forening - Campos (GLX) 1-0 (38’ Moen)
Campos (GLX) - Tjelberg Forening 2-1 (12’ X, 68’ Kondrashov, 83’ X)

Second Preliminary Round

Tjelberg Forening - Mountain Pass United (ABA) 2-2 (9’ X, 26’ Sihvola, 77’ Ostergaard)
Mountain Pass United (ABA) - Tjelberg Forening 1-0 (58’ X)

Third Preliminary Round

Hemel Hempstead FC (GWA) - Sparta Torspeda 2-0 (24’ X, 74’ X)
Sparta Torspeda - Hemel Hempstead FC (GWA) 0-4 (2’ X, 4’ X, 9’ X, 82’ X)

Play-off Round

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt - AC Abscon e Bouy (MST) 2-0 (43’ Orani, 80’ Dalmshelf)
AC Abscon e Bouy (MST) - Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0-2 (3’ The Heroic, 74’ Dalmshelf)

FC Vargas (SLL) - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 4-2 (27’ X, 34’ X, 50’ X, 77’ X, 82’ Delafuente, 89’ Hostmann)
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - FC Vargas (SLL) 3-2 (4’ Ptak, 13’ Ptak, 39’ X, 80’ Delafuente, 88’ X)

Qualifying Round

Westonbirt City (TIS) - Bengtsmark IF 0-1 (9’ Maniche)
Bengtsmark IF - Westonbirt City (TIS) 1-3 (53’ X, 59’ X, 76’ Zunzarren, 92’ X)

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt - Real Atlantea (TAE) 0-3 (23’ X, 79’ X, 82’ X)
Real Atlantea (TAE) - Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 2-0 (65’ X, 91’ X)

The Twenty-Nineth Cup Winners' Cup

First Round

New Hope United (CAT) - Pajukas Sport 1-1 (29’ Salnikov, 70’ X)
Pajukas Sport - New Hope United (CAT) 1-0 (84’ Anselm)

Round of 16

Pajukas Sport - Eastburg United (WRL) 2-2 (12’ X, 33’ X, 75’ Gudaitis, 85’ Amundsen)
Eastburg United (WRL) - Pajukas Sport 0-2 (28’ Losokov, 66’ Losokov)

Quarterfinals

Barbury Town (APX) - Pajukas Sport 4-0 (64’ X, 77’ X, 83’ X, 94’ X)
Pajukas Sport - Barbury Town (APX) 1-4 (36’ X, 44’ Gudaitis, 49’ X, 65’ X, 88’ X)

EDITION XI

First Round

Rosbank Town (BRE) - Pajukas Sport 0-1 (92’ Losokov)

Second Round

FC Chippenham (TSA) - Pajukas Sport 1-1 (3-4 pen.) (3’ Martyn, 84’ X)

University AL (AYP) - Bengtsmark IF 0-0 (0-1 AET) (113’ Schi)

Round of Sixteen

Bengtsmark IF - Barbury Town (APX) 0-2 (53’ X, 73’ X)

Nhorton vo Mirrun (PDT) - Pajukas Sport 2-1 (55’ X, 83’ X, 89’ Gudaitis)

[Buyan]

First Half of the 2019 Season

Match day 1

Welanduz Vadshult 1–1 Pajukas Sport
Tjelberg Forening 3–1 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Jottnar Kallsmudden 3–3 Haljo Vannarby
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–1 Seura Pohkakunti
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2–1 Sparta Torspeda
Bengtsmark IF 0–0 Slask Pruzniwczo

The opener already gives an interesting indication for the remainder of the season, with the occasional close call we were all hoping for. Viztourzys does grab three points, but only through a late goal by Ptak after a wonderful performance of Torspeda. Their bitter rivals for the title, the Yellows from Bengtsmark don’t even get that far as Francziszek Bogusz makes a respectable debut at the highest level with a clean sheet and when the youngster is beaten, it’s the post that keeps Schi of an opening goal. For Pallstadt, the season starts in great difficulties as they don’t stand a chance against Tjelberg. Without the injured Kluszak, Sil Moen easily leads his troops past Blau-Weiss with two goals. He’s the first topscorer along with Jottnar’s Dalmshelf, but it doesn’t give the Giants their three points as Stown nets a last-second penalty for Haljo. Pajukas with a bit of a stumble in the Lyckastadion, but the weakest impression of the week is left by Garbarnia, who created only one chance in ninety minutes and can be glad that Ulle Seber only got beaten once, through a header of Kohlemainen - not related to the Polarian superstar, for those wondering.


Match day 2

Pajukas Sport 0–0 Slask Pruzniwczo
Sparta Torspeda 0–0 Bengtsmark IF
Seura Pohkakunti 1–2 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Haljo Vannarby 1–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 1–2 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Welanduz Vadshult 0–2 Tjelberg Forening

We’re already playing for three hours and still Bengtsmark hasn’t managed to find the way to the net. This time it was Sparta Torspeda who barred the route to goal, although we’re underestimating the Orange Brigade with that conclusion as it was a balanced match with chances on both sides. Still, two points are better than none, as Pallstadt gets beaten in their own Unter dem Linden by a courageous Jottnar where Camden Stacks has a field day with a goal and an assisting pass. But it’s the regional nemesis of Kallsmudden, Tjelberg Forening, that leads the pack after a simple away victory. They’re currently on par with Viztourzys, that still struggles to find their balance now their former vacuum cleaner Danilius Wreczius has left professional football. However, when times get dark, stars rise and so did Delafuente with a magnificent screamer, winning them the game against a stubborn Pohkakunti. Also victorious was Vannarby, after a boring game they only needed one goal by Hammund. Pajukas and Slask, in the meanwhile, split the points.


Match day 3

Tjelberg Forening 3–0 Pajukas Sport
Jottnar Kallsmudden 1–0 Welanduz Vadshult
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–1 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1–0 Haljo Vannarby
Bengtsmark IF 1–0 Seura Pohkakunti
Slask Pruzniwczo 4–0 Sparta Torspeda

One goal can be enough, that’s the slogan of this matchday. Yakobe Zunzarren broke the deadlock with a clever pinch past the flailing arms of Ruhvianen. But the goal of the Astograthian couldn’t hide that last year’s champion hasn’t reached their top level yet. Rejoice around the areas of Pallstadt as a goal by David the Heroic, the phlegmatic striker from Old Guard, sufficed for their first points. In how far we should point to their performance or to the poor positioning of their opponent, the Tanners, remains a question. Also victorious with the smallest of differences was Viztourzys, but they did dominate during the seventy minutes preceding the punishing header of Lammerschon. And last but not least, Jottnar Kallsmudden gathered their very own arsenal score when Arkadiusz Niceforski dribbled past three defenders to place the ball in the furthest corner. The Giants are having a splendid form, it appears. Talking about form, the leader position still is for Tjelberg Forening as they overwhelmed Pajukas through goals of Kondrashov, Moen and Ostergaard. Despite their promising line-up, coach Tomascevicius clearly hasn’t managed yet to put his team on track. Sparta Torspeda, in other news, suffered a blow-out as Slask walked past them with Gerolf Poluceck thrice at the cannon. In the defence of Torspeda, the early red card of Karosas will not have been a great help.


Match day 4

Pajukas Sport 0–0 Sparta Torspeda
Seura Pohkakunti 2–3 Slask Pruzniwczo
Haljo Vannarby 1–1 Bengtsmark IF
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0–2 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Welanduz Vadshult 0–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Tjelberg Forening 0–1 Jottnar Kallsmudden

We can only wonder whether the calendar maker had planned this all out, yet we were having a match day filled with interesting derbies on our plate today. The most historical of them all is of course the Mullsphaller Derby and as Haljo has fallen in the order of things, a good performance against their bitter rivals has only gained in value. No wonder the Holmarena exploded when Ostlund opened the records and wept when Tullio Schi sent Maniche through the off-side trap. Only slightly less tense was the one in Bokstasstadion, especially as both Pajukas and Torspeda could use the points. Neither could score their first victory of the season, or actually score at all. But the most important one with an eye on the leaderboard was contested in Tjelberg. Despite being the underdog for most of the game, a goal by Venclova brought Jottnar in oblivion. This opened up the road for Viztourzys to grab first place, although they didn’t receive the points in wrapping paper against Blau-Weiss. Manuel Schmidt saved Viztourzys at crucial moments and Stefan Hostmann scored an important goal for the Red Machine. In the background of all these great games, Garbarnia took their first points through a goal by Kaczor and Slask won an entertaining match against a courageous Seura, with thanks to Gerolf Poluceck, the new topscorer.


Match day 5

Jottnar Kallsmudden 3–2 Pajukas Sport
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–1 Tjelberg Forening
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0–0 Welanduz Vadshult
Bengtsmark IF 2–0 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Slask Pruzniwczo 3–3 Haljo Vannarby
Sparta Torspeda 1–1 Seura Pohkakunti

Shock and dismay in the Novas Pylimasstadionas as Viztourzys failed to score against the last one in the standings. The “experimental” 6-3-1 line-up of Welanduz with only Prinsen, Gelson and Liepa crossing the half-line could be blamed, yet the fans were displeased with the performance of the Red Machine. It’s clear the pressure is high after a season without a price. Viztourzys’ draw allowed Jottnar to join them at the top. In a very entertaining duel, goals by Giertych, Stacks and Konopka annihilated the opener of Jonas Anselm. Jottnar’s defence might not be world-class, but their collective attacking makes them a feared side. Bengtsmark, in its turn, had their first clear victory against a mentally struggling Pallstadt, Zunzarren and Paulas scored. Tjelberg also took three points, although with a slighter margin as only Sihvola got past Ulle Seber. If Garbarnia stays in, they will have to thank their sturdy goalie. Sparta Torspeda seemed on its way to a first victory through a goal by Pentanen, but a screamer by Kuusi in the extra-time enlarged the dark clouds hanging over the Orange Brigade. Slask, in the meanwhile, continues to be an entertaining side with the Dziuba nephews reinventing the position of wingback. They, and not in the least an excellent Marcos Pérez, deserved more than a single point against Haljo.


Match day 6

Pajukas Sport 1–0 Seura Pohkakunti
Haljo Vannarby 2–2 Sparta Torspeda
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 3–0 Slask Pruzniwczo
Welanduz Vadshult 0–2 Bengtsmark IF
Tjelberg Forening 3–3 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Jottnar Kallsmudden 1–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko

The fixture of the weekend was without any doubt contested near Den Dam as both Tjelberg’s Angst and Viztourzys’ Schmidt had to accept more goals in ninety minutes than they had done during the previous month all together. The home team seemed on its way to victory, but a penalty by Bartkus and a clever chip from youngster Hostmann made the teams part with one point each. This allowed Jottnar to widen the gap up front, as one sleazy goal by Konopka sufficed to win. Blau-Weiss saw the return of Piotr Kluszak, who made his mark with one goal and an assisting pass against revelations Slask, who only suffered their first defeat so far. Bengtsmark faring well as well, as they beat out their neighbours through goals from Maniche and Zunzarren. Talking about recovering sides, Pajukas grabbed their first victory, Ivan Gudaitis could break through the defence of the White Kids with ample minutes on the clock. The Orange Brigade still looks for a first victory, as Haljo came back twice after two goals of Juha Pentanen.

Match day 7

Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–1 Pajukas Sport
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 2–3 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Bengtsmark IF 2–2 Tjelberg Forening
Slask Pruzniwczo 1–0 Welanduz Vadshult
Sparta Torspeda 0–2 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Seura Pohkakunti 0–0 Haljo Vannarby

The Giants of Jottnar Kallsmudden were before considered a mid-table team, but they proved the pundits wrong with a classy victory on the field of Viztourzys, ensuring nineteen points out of seven games. Goals by Niceforski, Stacks and man of the match Jurgis Venclova sealed the deal, a comeback through the active Delafuente came too late for the Kolektyvinis. Kallsmudden even consolidated a five-point margin as Bengtsmark and Tjelberg split the points in the Havssidanstadion, Sil Moen dramatically missing an opportunity in the ultimate minute there. In other fields, Kluszak continued his return, once again scoring and putting Sparta a bit deeper in their misery. Misery, a word unknown to the entertaining side of Slask, as only the woodwork and a strong Widforss kept Pruzniwczo of scoring more than once through Pérez. The remaining two games ended up in draws, Seura and Haljo neither managed to create something, while Garbarnia seemed on route for a sixth defeat of the year after a screamer by Noel Amundsen, until Czarny stunned Valadius from far out.

Match day 8

Pajukas Sport 0–0 Haljo Vannarby
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 2–1 Seura Pohkakunti
Welanduz Vadshult 2–1 Sparta Torspeda
Tjelberg Forening 0–1 Slask Pruzniwczo
Jottnar Kallsmudden 2–2 Bengtsmark IF
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–2 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis

The big headlines today were for the Vingardarena, as Bengtsmark attempted to stop the team in form. They almost did so, thanks to an inspiring game by Tullio Schi. Twenty minutes in, he launched Maniche to goal and when he painted the ball on Mattisson’s head to double up, the points seemed in the bag. Yet, Jottnar proved itself a true collective and eventually Camden Stacks scrambled one past Saldlund in the dying minutes. This left the door wide open for Forening to close in on the leaders, but they disappointed at home. They never got hold of the vibrating game of Slask and a goal by Schulewski decided upon their faith. Viztourzys, on the other hand, didn’t fail to make use of the situation, beating a very poor Garbarnia side with goals by Ptak and Lupeikis. At home, Pallstadt scored nine out of nine, although they struggled to get past Seura Pohkakunti. The White Kids even led halfway, with Pajari profiting of a mistake in defence by Milosevici, but the Ecossian solved the situation with a powerful header, reaching higher than Sillema. The match winner was for Chris Orani, a low shot in the furthest corner. Haljo and Pajukas tied in a storyless game.

Match day 9

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1–0 Pajukas Sport
Bengtsmark IF 4–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Slask Pruzniwczo 1–2 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Sparta Torspeda 1–4 Tjelberg Forening
Seura Pohkakunti 3–4 Welanduz Vadshult
Haljo Vannarby 1–2 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt

No surprises, but a lot of spectacle for the ninth duel of the season. Viztourzys was the most frugal, as a goal by Hostmann sufficed, but Bengtsmark really had a go at Garbarnia. Man of the match was Felipe Maniche, as the Sunrisian international made his way through the Tanners’ defence on several occasions. Likewise, Tjelberg Forening demolished Sparta Torspeda in the second half. Halfway, a goal by Plovnarov seemed to put the Orange Brigade on way to much-needed points but an illustrious Sil Moen scored twice, placing his name under Stutkus’ firing sheet. Blau-Weiss had an easier evening than the result would predict, a late goal by Ostlund did not really worry Pallstadt. We should especially note the strong cooperation between David the Heroic and Duco Dalmshelf, who really appear to have found one another now they receive more back-up through Piotr Kluszak. Last but not least, Seura and Welanduz presented the fans of these two bottom sides a very note-worthy game, eventually decided when Johan Hammargren got his second one of the evening against the net.

Match day 10

Pajukas Sport 0–1 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Welanduz Vadshult 1–0 Haljo Vannarby
Tjelberg Forening 4–3 Seura Pohkakunti
Jottnar Kallsmudden 0–3 Sparta Torspeda
Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–0 Slask Pruzniwczo
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0–1 Bengtsmark IF

Same games always ensure a full stadium and a vivid crowd and Viztourzys-Bengtsmark is such a confrontation. The game between the two teams that have dominated the history of Buyanese football so far, usually splitting the spots at the top amongst themselves. This year, they have to accept the presence of the two Ravnarian sides in the battle for the title as well, making a loss ever so costly. The result was a harsh, tactical game, eventually decided when Paro Egilius made a ludicrous fault on Mattisson, causing the latter to be out for several weeks and the culprit to hit the showers. Against ten opponents, Bengtsmark pressed and eventually earned what they deserved when Maniche scored an all-important goal. It launched the Yellows towards Jottnar, who suffered their first defeat of the season and how! Sparta Torspeda, with new coach Sakalauskas - uncle of the goalie, went for an unconventional 4-5-1, allowing Plovnarov to shine and Pentanen to score. Sharing the second place with Bengtsmark, Tjelberg won as well although only by a slim margin against a courageous Pohkakunti. An own goal for the unfortunate Kai Ruutu condemned the White Kids. Welanduz took another step towards ensuring a prolonged stay in the Top Division, winning a close game against neighbours Vannarby, as did Garbarnia who left the last place behind them. In a harsh game, it was youngster Kaczor who liberated the Tanners. Pallstadt completed their five-win streak with a goal by Duco Dalmshelf, leading them back into the battle for the Champions’ Cup places.

Match day 11

Bengtsmark IF 2–1 Pajukas Sport
Slask Pruzniwczo 0–0 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Sparta Torspeda 2–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Seura Pohkakunti 0–1 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Haljo Vannarby 0–1 Tjelberg Forening
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 2–2 Welanduz Vadshult

Despite the bump last week, Jottnar can celebrate the lead halfway as a goal by Arkadiusz Niceforski sufficed to grab three points against red lantern Seura Pohkakunti. Right behind them, Bengtsmark and Tjelberg made no mistakes. The Ravnarian side in purple also went for the smallest difference, beating Haljo with an early goal from the foot of Aatos Sihvola, their new striker who showed his worth so far. Bengtsmark, in its turn, had little trouble against a Pajukas Sport which still can’t find their rhythm. Felipe Maniche scored once more and Ullsmang, currently demoted to fringe player, doubled up. In the meanwhile, Viztourzys had to let go of their opponents for the title. The Red Machine still hasn’t found that balance in midfield and Slask, for the occasion with five defenders even came closest to victory when Schmidt pushed a shot by Poluceck against the post. No excuses either for Blau-Weiss, they came away with a point in their own Unter Dem Linden after a very moderate game. It was once again Duco Dalmshelf who saved the day for them. Away from all the hypes, it appears that Sparta Torspeda has caught a new breath. The relief in the Pergale Stadionas when Vazinskis hit the net after Plovnarov had opened up the scoreline, was magnificent.

Halfway table

.                           Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Jottnar Kallsmudden       11    8   2   1    19   14   +5    26
 2 Tjelberg Forening         11    7   2   2    23   12  +11    23
 3 Bengtsmark IF             11    6   5   0    17    7  +10    23
 4 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis   11    6   3   2    15    9   +6    21
 5 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt      11    6   1   4    15   13   +2    19
 6 Slask Pruzniwczo          11    4   4   3    13   11   +2    16
 7 Welanduz Vadshult         11    3   3   5    10   14   −4    12
 8 Sparta Torspeda           11    2   4   5    11   17   −6    10
 9 Haljo Vannarby            11    1   6   4    11   14   −3     9
10 Pajukas Sport             11    1   5   5     6   12   −6     8
11 Garbarnia Hoyersko        11    2   1   8     4   14  −10     7
12 Seura Pohkakunti          11    1   2   8    12   19   −7     5

Topscorers

7 goals: Felipe Maniche (NSI, Bengtsmark)
6 goals: Duco Dalmshelf (Blau-Weiss), Gerolf Poluceck (Slask), Sil Moen (Tjelberg)
5 goals: Risto Pajari (Seura), Juha Pentanen (MYT, Sparta), Camden Stacks (SAR, Jottnar)
4 goals: Matias Delafuente (FRF, Viztourzys), Henryk Konopka (Jottnar), Daniel Ostlund (Haljo), Jochen Ptak (Viztourzys), Aatos Sihvola (Tjelberg)

[Buyan]

Second Half of the 2019 Season

Match day 12

Pajukas Sport 0–1 Welanduz Vadshult
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 1–1 Tjelberg Forening
Haljo Vannarby 1–0 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Seura Pohkakunti 0–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Sparta Torspeda 2–3 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Slask Pruzniwczo 2–2 Bengtsmark IF

For all those dreaming that the Ravnari sides would continue their excellent form to the finish line, this matchday had little else in store than disappointment and frustration. First of all, Jottnar surprisingly fell to Haljo Vannarby, although they could complain upon a red card for Janus Czovlap and a nasty injury inflicted on their midfield star Slawko Konarski. A magnificent Bruno Hawke kept them shy of a point. The Giants nonetheless hold on the leading spot as their regional rivals, Tjelberg, couldn't bring back more than a point from Unter Dem Linden. David The Heroic opened up the score and it took a last-minute header from Sil Moen to even things up. On top of that, Bengtsmark faltered eye-in-eye with Slask Pruzniwczo. Ravezli and Pérez twirled and danced in the Ring and dominated the opening half, allowing Poluceck to one up his tally. A brilliant second half of Schi avoided humiliation. In the Valneda derby, the Orange Brigade fell to the Red Machine, yet we cannot shake off the feeling that the team build around Plovnarov is on the way up. The same cannot be said of Pajukas, who so far scored only once in their own Bokstasstadionas, a very poor statistic. Garbarnia takes three important points through a good Seber and a lethal Zbigniew Kaczor, pushing Seura deep into the danger zone.

Match day 13

Slask Pruzniwczo 2–2 Pajukas Sport
Bengtsmark IF 1–3 Sparta Torspeda
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 0–0 Seura Pohkakunti
Garbarnia Hoyersko 2–1 Haljo Vannarby
Jottnar Kallsmudden 2–3 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Tjelberg Forening 1–0 Welanduz Vadshult

And all dreams of a first national title seem to be brought to the scrapyard at once for Jottnar after losing in their Vingardarena to Blau-Weiss. In their defense, it must be said that Pallstadt served quite probably the best they've shown so far this season, with Piotr Kluszak ruling like a general and Dalmshelf at the cannon. Thumbs up for Orani as well, lethal on a set piece. This allows Tjelberg Forening to surprisingly pick up the lead along the way, it was Aatos Sihvola who scored early on, leaving Welanduz without an answer. The Forening did the best business today, as Viztourzys faltered against Seura. Poor finishing by Jochen Ptak, with an applause for the crossbar who saved Ruhvianen twice. Bengtsmark fared even worse as our previous prediction showed correct. Sparta Torspeda finally demonstrated what they're actually made off and dominated from start till ending, something that even a consolation goal by Maniche couldn't prevent. Man of the match was Frederik Suhr, who not only kept Schi in his back pocket, but have a marvellous assisting pass towards Norkus. In the background, Garbarnia continues their streak with Martinek playing well and Pajukas picks up a point as Bogusz handles a shot from far out by Noel Amundsen like a bar of soap. The Boys in Green still are in serious danger of relegation...

Match day 14

Pajukas Sport 1–0 Tjelberg Forening
Welanduz Vadshult 3–3 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 1–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Haljo Vannarby 0–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Seura Pohkakunti 1–2 Bengtsmark IF
Sparta Torspeda 4–3 Slask Pruzniwczo

...but when times are at their worst, things might happen to pick up. It didn't look all pretty, but the heart and soul from Pajukas, symbolised by the blood trailing down the head of Aidan Martyn who insisted on continuing, finally paid off. Tjelberg wasn't as vigilant as usual and immediately saw their leadership days come to an end when Jonas Anselm pinched one past Palle Angst. Surprisingly, this means that Viztourzys leads the field after a moderate season start, although three competitors follow by a single point. Their performance against Haljo, however, wasn't champion quality if it weren't for a lightning bolt by their Farf wonderboy, Delafuente. Bengtsmark closes in on the first place as well, with a performance that might look moderate on the scoreboard, but was in fact played after an excellent first half with Zunzarren and Paulas scoring. The same cannot beside about Jottnar, who ran behind the facts after an early goal by Dan Gelson, getting no further than 3-3 with another goal by Camden Stacks, who reaches his best level after quite a few seasons in our league. The most mindblowing element of it all is that Pallstadt could have been the leader despite grabbing only three points in their opening five games. Their none-losing streak still does not meet his end, Dalmshelf saves them a point on the buzzer. Poluceck and Pentanen do a good thing for the topscorers board after a tense game which gave the three points to Torspeda.

Match day 15

Sparta Torspeda 2–2 Pajukas Sport
Slask Pruzniwczo 1–3 Seura Pohkakunti
Bengtsmark IF 2–0 Haljo Vannarby
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 3–2 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–0 Welanduz Vadshult
Jottnar Kallsmudden 3–1 Tjelberg Forening

If all is together near the top, direct duels make the difference. Viztourzys realised that and brought out their very best, bringing Pallstadt to their knees as first in quite some months. Matias Delafuente showed why every Farf sees him as a potential superstar with one goal and an assist for Ptak, but it was his confidence and dribbles that really wrecked the weak point of Pallstadt, despite a top-class game by Marko Maurer. A goal in the seventy-ninth minute by Kauppi made it a tense ending, but the Kolektyvinis withstood thanks to an excellent Bartkus and Schmidt. Similar tension on and off the pitch in the Vingardarena, but after a close opening half, Tjelberg lost over Kubik over violent conduct and two goals in quick succession by matchwinner Arkadiusz Niceforski kept Jottnar in the trail of the leaders. A trail they share with Bengtsmark IF, who won an important one for the fans: the Mullsphaller Derby. With Stown covered by Naess, it were Tullio Schi and the freshly recovered Mattisson who earned their place in the papers. In the lower end of the table, Seura picked up their first victory since the opening game, the White Kids could rely on homegrown players Pajari and Vehvilianen for the goals. This brings Pajukas in major trouble, they only picked up a point in Torspeda, especially as Garbarnia has catapulted themselves to safety with a third victory in a row.

Match day 16

Pajukas Sport 0–1 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Tjelberg Forening 0–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Welanduz Vadshult 0–3 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0–0 Bengtsmark IF
Haljo Vannarby 3–1 Slask Pruzniwczo
Seura Pohkakunti 3–3 Sparta Torspeda

The poster match of the day became a turndown as both Markushovn and Kullersdorf opted for an extra man in their defensive compartment. The result was a dull game in which both Kluszak and Schi were shielded and chances were sparse. A shot from Maniche, pushed past the post by Erhardt, came closest, but no team scored. Similar levels of excitement on Den Dam, where Tjelberg saw their last hope on the Champions' Cup go up in flames when Sil Moen caught an unnecessary red card. They were lucky to have a strong Angst to get away with one point. This meant that this matchday had two winners, one of them being Jottnar Kallsmudden who pushed Pajukas Sport back in the dark corner through a goal on a free-kick by Venclova. The Giants still chased Viztourzys, who had little to no trouble against Welanduz Vadshult, where the pressure seems to be a bit too much off with relegation almost surely avoided. A marvellous from Stefan Hostmann in this game will make the compilations. Seura Pohkakunti continues their 'Operation Saving Our Ass' with a hard-fought point against Torspeda. It was captain and nestor Saari who scored the final goal, keeping the dream alive. Lastly, we witnessed how Haljo grabbed three important points through an excellent Zooey Stown. Slask seems to have lost their form, having picked up only three points in eight games.

Match day 17

Seura Pohkakunti 1–3 Pajukas Sport
Sparta Torspeda 2–2 Haljo Vannarby
Slask Pruzniwczo 2–2 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Bengtsmark IF 2–1 Welanduz Vadshult
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 3–0 Tjelberg Forening
Garbarnia Hoyersko 1–0 Jottnar Kallsmudden

For those who doubted them, dwingling at five points from the leader at the half-way point, Viztourzys has presented a clear and firm answer. While Brony & Pony kept the defense as closed as... ehm... something very closed, the continuing rushes from Zemaitis and Justs brought panic amongst Tjelberg fans and players. Luckily for them, only Lammerschon, Ptak and Hostmann found the net. What's more important for the Red Machine is that they shake off Jottnar, who stumbled over a reviving Garbarnia Hoyersko, as the Tanners record their fourth victory in six games. Mariusz Czarny managed to get the ball past Remer, although the fans of the Giants claimed offside. This brings back Bengtsmark as nearest opponent for Viztourzys, they didn't have a great time against Welanduz but a strong Yakobe Zunzarren saved them when times got rough with a spectacular volley. Blau-Weiss getting a point against Slask was less then they deserved but Poluceck had one of his lethal nights. On the other side of the pitch, there were pats on the back for Seppo Kauppi, fine performance topped off with two assists. While Sparta and Haljo split the points, the relegation six-pointer between Seura and Sport saw a clear winner. Although the White Kids got in front - who else than Risto Pajari? - it was Pajukas that dominated the game and broke through the dam with a goal by Gudaitis on the hour. Pohkakunti lost two players to red cards in quick succession, Anselm and Wladecki determined the scoreline.

Match day 18

Pajukas Sport 0–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Jottnar Kallsmudden 2–0 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Tjelberg Forening 1–2 Bengtsmark IF
Welanduz Vadshult 0–2 Slask Pruzniwczo
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 3–0 Sparta Torspeda
Haljo Vannarby 0–1 Seura Pohkakunti

A top-match in the Vingardarena between a seasoned Viztourzys, the side that saw themselves grab so many titles and a Globe Cup, and Jottnar, the returning kids on the block, realising that defeat would end their championship dream. The spectacle presented by these two sides lived up to the expectations, as we saw plenty of chances with Remer and Schmidt, each at their end of the pitch, acting wonderful. Eventually, a header of Rafal Giertych opened up the match, forcing Viztourzys to take risks. Something they paid in cash when Stacks danced past his direct opponent and placed the ball in the top corner. This also allowed Bengtsmark to join Viztourzys in the lead, the Yellows went for a Tjelberg in crisis, having picked up only one point last month. Nonetheless it was rather tense at Den Dam, with Maniche refinding his golden boots making the difference. He annuled a goal by Henrik Ostergaard by two gems, resulting in one goal and an assist. Blau-Weiss removed any doubts upon which five teams will play UICA with a sharp victory on Sparta, Dalmshelf scoring twice. The battle for the relegation spot got the same tense atmosphere as the one in the lead. Seura grabbed their last chance, with Borje Rydell making the all-important penalty goal against Haljo Vannarby. They're now only three points behind on Haljo and Welanduz - Skulason and Pérez gave them a loss - and four points on Pajukas Sport, that failed to convince once more.

Match day 19

Haljo Vannarby 1–3 Pajukas Sport
Seura Pohkakunti 2–3 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Sparta Torspeda 1–0 Welanduz Vadshult
Slask Pruzniwczo 1–2 Tjelberg Forening
Bengtsmark IF 2–2 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko

Another day, another decisive match. Bengtsmark and Jottnar clashed in what would be one of the best games of the season and only the fact that the rules prevent both teams of winning caused either to walk away with a single point. A quick combination by Naess and Schi, the Zwangzugian linchpin, brought IF in front, but a scramble goal by Konopka and a moment of other calmth by Vansholt tilted the scales. Eventually, the last word was Ramunas Paulas who got a goal offered to him by Maniche and did not doubt. As a result, the actual winner was the Red Machine, for whom a penalty goal by Bartkus sufficed to distance themselves from the club in form, Garbarnia. The battle for fourth didn't alter much, as Tjelberg overcame Slask through goals from a recovered Sil Moen and Kondrashov while Blau-Weiss came out of the Paraati Areenalla with three points. Dalmshelf, Orani and David The Heroic brought their team to the finish line. The winner of the week in the relegation zone was Pajukas Sport, that came out on top of Haljo with Ivan Losokov for the first time since long finding his potential level of play, knocking one in and assisting another one. Sport is safed with that, but looks back at another disappointing season. Three relegation candidates are left: Seura, Haljo and Welanduz Vadshult that was superior to Torspeda thanks to Dan Gelson but got caught on the counterattack by Juha Pentanen.

Match day 20

Pajukas Sport 0–1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–0 Bengtsmark IF
Jottnar Kallsmudden 3–1 Slask Pruzniwczo
Tjelberg Forening 1–1 Sparta Torspeda
Welanduz Vadshult 0–0 Seura Pohkakunti
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 2–0 Haljo Vannarby

The money is not yet in the bag, but the fifth national title for Viztourzys Kolektyvinis comes closer than ever. On the field of Pajukas Sport, they gained three important points, with Matias Delafuente behind the cannon. It keeps the gap to Jottnar Kallsmudden up to three points as the Giants won against Slask, a team that really has taken a turn for the worst after the half-season break. Kluwshavl and Niceforski scored already early on and the rest was easy-peasy for Jottnar. But the most important feat of the day was in the Aleja Lipowa, where Bengtsmark spoiled their last chances on a title with a poor nil-niller against Garbarnia. Sub Sico Ullsmang hit the post, signing his definitive departure from the club, while Mattisson once again got injured. Trouble for Markushovn and his boys, who have to fix four points in two games. Blau-Weiss holds on to a theoretical chance for the Champions' Cup, beating Haljo through goals by Dalmshelf and Milosevici. Tjelberg, on the other hand, drew. The relegation duel of the weekend between Welanduz and Seura saw no goals but four red cards. Especially the White Kids, who will have to miss Vaino Kuusi for the remainder of the season, don't really get much closer with this result.

Match day 21

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 1–0 Pajukas Sport
Haljo Vannarby 0–1 Welanduz Vadshult
Seura Pohkakunti 3–2 Tjelberg Forening
Sparta Torspeda 1–1 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Slask Pruzniwczo 1–0 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Bengtsmark IF 3–2 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis

"Last chances are there to take," Harald Naess grinned to the press afterwards and that is a correct conclusion over the Bengtsmark-Viztourzys game. As always the fiercest of battles in the Top Division, the eternal ruler of the competition and their nemesis delivered ninety minutes of spectacle. It was Jochen Ptak who opened the score, running towards the crowd with five fingers stretched, hinting to a potential title. But the Yellows - as IF really is in need for a better nickname - fought themselves back into it, Zunzarren scoring just before and the inevitable Felipe Maniche behind the break. With ten minutes left on the clock, Viztourzys saw their relentless efforts rewarded when Firecrest got his head against a shabby corner but that wasn't the end of the drama. With little time left, Maniche dribbled past Zemaitis, launched it into the box and who else than Tullio Schi scored the winning goal. IF comes within one point of Viztourzys and is second, as Jottnar couldn't profit from the occasion, leaving Torspeda with one measly point. Not enough, but they were already glad that a goal from Konarski avoided a loss after an early score by Plovnarov. In the back of the pack, two teams got an important win. Seura Pohkakunti overcame adversity with a win against Tjelberg, starring Risto Pajari with once again two goals. In the A. Holmarena, Haljo lost their fourth game in a row as one goal by Johan Hammargren sufficed to ensure Welanduz another year in the highest league. Both the title - Bengtsmark, Jottnar or Viztourzys - and the relegation - Haljo or Seura - will be decided on the ultimate day.

Match day 22

Pajukas Sport 1–0 Bengtsmark IF
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1–0 Slask Pruzniwczo
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–2 Sparta Torspeda
Jottnar Kallsmudden 4–1 Seura Pohkakunti
Tjelberg Forening 1–0 Haljo Vannarby
Welanduz Vadshult 0–0 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt

Despite all the speculations, the truth was that Viztourzys still had the best hand going into the last ninety minutes. Ahead in the standings and a relatively simple fixture against Slask Pruzniwczo, who seldomly had impressed us lately. But Viztourzys did appear to be insecure, playing a very poor first half. It wasn't but after the break that they finally got the engine running and turned into the Red Machine. A screamer by Kazimieras Zemaitis sufficed for the three points and another trophy in their cabinet. By then, Bengtsmark was already lying in the ropes, having spoiled their own chances with a very moderate game against Pajukas Sport. The opportunities were missed by Paulas and Maniche and a sneaky chip from Salnikov determined their tears. Bengtsmark even dropped out of the Champions Cup spot as Jottnar Kallsmudden had little trouble against Seura Pohkakunti. Despite a red card for Sihvola, it became a goalfest with a strong Niceforski and Stacks, each good for a goal and an assist. No wonder the Giants celebrated as if they had won the title. And Ulvan and his boys could pop the champagne together with the losing White Kids, as they had assured their stay in the top flight due to Tjelberg Forening pushing Haljo back down. A goal by Ostergaard sufficed, Haljo couldn't put anything next to that. The end of five years in the highest class, they simply didn't perform well enough the last few months. Manager Axborn did say the blue-and-purple are aiming to return to the highest division as should for a team with their tradition and fan support, but with many offers for Stown, Ostlund and Skoglund, that might be a difficult task.

Final table

.                           Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis   22   14   4   4    33   18  +15    46
 2 Jottnar Kallsmudden       22   13   5   4    40   28  +12    44
 3 Bengtsmark IF             22   11   9   2    33   20  +13    42
 4 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt      22   11   6   5    33   24   +9    39
 5 Tjelberg Forening         22   10   5   7    33   27   +6    35
 6 Sparta Torspeda           22    6   9   7    32   36   −4    27
 7 Slask Pruzniwczo          22    6   7   9    29   33   −4    25
 8 Pajukas Sport             22    5   8   9    18   22   −4    23
 9 Garbarnia Hoyersko        22    6   5  11    10   20  −10    23
10 Welanduz Vadshult         22    5   6  11    16   27  −11    21
11 Seura Pohkakunti          22    4   5  13    27   38  −11    17
12 Haljo Vannarby            22    3   7  12    19   30  −11    16

Topscorers

12 goals: Duco Dalmshelf (Blau-Weiss)
11 goals: Felipe Maniche (NSI, Bengtsmark) & Risto Pajari (Pohkakunti)
10 goals: Gerolf Poluceck (Slask) & Juha Pentanen (MYT, Torspeda)
9 goals: Jochen Ptak (Viztourzys) & Camden Stacks (SAR, Jottnar)
8 goals: Arkadiusz Niceforski (Jottnar) & Sil Moen (Tjelberg)
7 goals: Matias Delafuente (FRF, Viztourzys), Henryk Konopka (Jottnar), Dmitri Plovnarov (Torspeda) & Tullio Schi (ZWZ, Bengtsmark)
6 goals: Stefan Hostmann (Viztourzys), Yakobe Zunzarren (ASG, Bengtsmark), David The Heroic (OGU, Blau-Weiss), Henrik Ostergaard (Tjelberg), Marcus Pérez (SJG, Slask), Zbigniew Kaczor (Garbarnia), Daniel Ostlund (Haljo)

Award section

Team of the season

GK: Manuel Schmidt (Viztourzys)
LD: Kazimieras Zemaitis (Viztourzys)
CD: Rafal Giertych (Jottnar)
RD: Christopher Orani (APX, Blau-Weiss)
DM: Harald Naess (Bengtsmark)
LM: Dmitri Plovnarov (Torspeda)
RM: Jurgis Venclova (Jottnar)
AM: Tullio Schi (ZWZ, Bengtsmark)
AM: Matias Delafuente (FRF, Viztourzys)
LA: Duco Dalmshelf (Blau-Weiss)
RA: Felipe Maniche (NSI, Bengtsmark)

Bench: Ulle Seber, Bronius Bartkus, Olaf Saari, Yakobe Zunzarren (ASG), Piotr Kluszak, Sil Moen, Gerolf Poluceck

Players of the Year

Golden Boot: Duco Dalmshelf
Golden Laces: Gerolf Poluceck (most beautiful goal)

Best Goalie: Manuel Schmidt
Best Defender: Kazimieras Zemaitis
Best Midfielder: Tullio Schi
Best Attacker: Felipe Maniche

Golden Cup: Tullio Schi
Silver Cup: Matias Delafuente
Bronze Cup: Piotr Kluszak

Golden Youth: Matias Delafuente
Silver Youth: Rafal Giertych
Bronze Youth: Dmitri Plovnarov

Golden Buyanese: Piotr Kluszak
Silver Buyanese: Kazimieras Zemaitis
Bronze Buyanese: Rafal Giertych

List of life-time achievement awards

2017: Egidius Zarnevidis - Manager of the Globe Cup winning squad
2018: Anders Bergh - Unique goalkeeper career cut short by injury
2019: Bronius Bartkus - Fifth title as a captain for Viztourzys

All-Time Table

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis  110   64  26  20   181  104   218     1 Cup (2015) + 4 Titles (2015, 2016, 2017, 2019) + 1 Globe Cup + 6 Champions Cup Tickets
Bengtsmark IF            110   61  22  27   194  127   205     2 Cups (2017, 2019) + 1 Title (2018) + 1 Champions Cup Ticket + 5 Globe Cup Tickets
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt     110   55  24  31   170  116   189     1 Cup (2016) + 1 Cup Final (2017) + 4 Globe Cup Tickets
Jottnar Kallsmudden      110   46  25  39   168  157   163     1 Cup Final (2016) + 1 Champions Cup Ticket + 2 Globe Cup Tickets
Tjelberg Forening        110   39  33  38   110  112   150     3 Globe Cup Tickets
Pajukas Sport            110   40  29  41   110  102   149     1 Cup (2018) + 2 Globe Cup Tickets
Haljo Vannarby           110   35  29  46   122  147   134
Garbarnia Hoyersko       110   34  28  48   104  123   130     1 Cup Final (2015) + 1 Globe Cup Ticket
Sparta Torspeda           88   31  27  30   122  125   118     1 Globe Cup Ticket + 1 SBCC Ticket
IFK Pollmarnang           88   27  21  40   102  132   102     1 Cup Final (2018)
Welanduz Vadshult         88   23  21  44    73  113    90     1 SBCC Ticket
Seura Pohkakunti          88   21  19  48   102  155    82     1 Cup Final (2019)
Slask Pruzniwczo          44   14  11  19    52   63    53     2 SBCC Tickets
Thor Rellhovn             22    3   8  11    19   34    17     1 SBCC Ticket
Aigil Grephel             22    2   7  13    24   46    13

All-time topscorer

55 goals: Jochen Ptak (T)
48 goals: Edvald Mattisson (T)
47 goals: Duco Dalmshelf (T)
40 goals: Juha Pentanen (Mytannion) (T)
38 goals: Aatos Sihvola
37 goals: Sil Moen
36 goals: Felipe Maniche (Sankt Pauli - NSI)
34 goals: Vincas Daukas (T)
32 goals: Daniel Ostlund
29 goals: David the Heroic (Old Guard)
28 goals: Gerolf Poluceck
25 goals: Risto Pajari
24 goals: Camden Stacks (The Sarian), Ramunas Paulas
23 goals: Tullio Schi (Zwangzug), Elmo Havelund
22 goals: Henryk Konopka
21 goals: Gabrielius Vilkas, Erwin Kroempf
20 goals: Marcos Pérez (San José Guayabal), Dmitri Plovnarov

[Buyan]

New Sideburn’s Cloaker: for providing me with such magnificent kits.
New Wolfopolis: for the logo of this league.
Equestrian States, Taijan, The Royal Barangay, Felix, Mytannion, San Jose Guayabal, Earent, Venalzio, Taeshan, Farfadillis, Apox & Nephara: for having one or more of my players over.
Apox, German American States, Northern Sunrise Islands, Zwangzug, the Sarian, Mytannion, Farfadillis, Yttribia, Equestrian States, Paradystopia, Nova Anglicana, Felix, Nephara, Astograth, San Jose Guayabal & Nouvel Ecosse: for lending me players.
You: for reading this.

If you want to exchange players, don’t hesitate to TG.
If your nation or something of your nation has been mentioned incorrectly (b.e. in the UICA part), don’t hesitate to TG.

Top Division Teams 2020

Bengtsmark IF

Home Stadium: Havssidanstadion (15.000 seats) in Bengtsmark, Mullsphall (465.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 3th in the Top Division, winner of the President’s Cup
Manager: Derrik Markushovn (54)
Starting XI: Erbald Saldlund (25) *** Isak Hjortsberg (21), Antanas Mamontovas (25), ???, Jörgen Relling (23) *** Harald Naess (34 - Capt), Yakobe Zunzarren (ASG - 24), Tullio Schi (ZWG - 28) *** Felipe Maniche (NSI - 21), Edvald Mattisson (33), Steffen Lindelöf (20)
Conclusion: It is almost blasphemous to speak about a poor season when a side has managed not only to grab a price, but also to end third in the competition. Nonetheless, the whole operation left a bitter taste in the mouth. Viztourzys was beatable, all those who support the Yellows realise, and those are chances that don’t come by too often. The incapacity to get a constant form in the performances - especially considering their sometimes magnificent football - remains a difficult point in the Havssidan. The task for the 2020 season is strictly outlined, to reach the second title or at least the Champions’ Cup.
The defence, where the many talents have once again earned a slice of wisdom, has been strengthened with no acquisition at all so far. No wonder the Yellows are eagerly looking to the market with the cut-off being near. The midfield trio remains the same, the stubborn Naess, the gifted Zunzarren and Tullio Schi as director of affairs. The attack no longer revolves around Edvald Mattisson, as Felipe Maniche has taken over his role as lethal striker, but if healthy throughout the whole thing, he might be important. Young Steffen Lindelöf debutes at the starting XI, having made only three appearances last season. He replaces Ramunas Paulas who has joined the ranks of Thor Rellhovn. Another departure comes from Jonas Englund who leaves his youth club after financial quarrels.

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt

Home Stadium: Unter dem Linden (10.500 seats) in Pallstadt, Trovne (75.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 4th in the Top Division
Manager: Helmut Kullersdorf (57)
Starting XI: Jan Erhardt (24) *** Christopher Orani (APX - 31), Marko Maurer (MYT - 27), Doran Milosevici (NEC - 21), Wilco Vrintz (28) *** Bartosz Wladecki (21), Theo Hueppe (31 - Capt), Seppo Kauppi (28), Piotr Kluszak (27) *** Duco Dalmshelf (23), David The Heroic (OGU - 32)
Conclusion: As much as Kullersdorf, a staunch proponent of true team football, would like to deny it, one cannot around the fact that the presence of Piotr Kluszak defines the team. His injury during the first part of the competition hampered their chances and in hindsight, they might have dropped those seven points they came short for the title there. Either way, the train is rolling and their Achilles heel has been dealt with. The addition of Bartosz Wladecki of Pajukas, quite an expensive transfer at 1,3 million Mint, has been lauded as the last piece of their puzzle. With this youngster instead of Peco Hinze, they might aim at a second trophy to their cabinet, next to a President’s Cup that’s gathering dust.
Year after year, Jan Erhardt is growing and although he hasn’t lived up for the national yet, he’s a reliable man. The duo in front of his nose, Maurer-Milosevici knows the ropes and Chris Orani seems to have a second spring, being named as part of the season last year. With Wladecki, Blau-Weiss has added someone with the radius to clean up after both Kluszak and Kauppi while brand-new captain Hueppe is a hardworking runner on the wing. David the Heroic has reinvented himself as assist king, something that was vital in the first Golden Boot for Duco Dalmshelf. It’s a formula that’s quite steady with the one they’ve had the past few years, but the names and experience might match the expectations now.

Garbarnia Hoyersko

Home Stadium: Aleja Lipowa (8.100 seats) in Hoyersko, Serkau (170.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 9th in the Top Division
Manager: Samuel Libanovich (60)
Starting XI: Ulle Seber (30) *** Marian Adamski (28), Garion Bytnar (34), Michal Bortkiewicz (20), Pierczo Szylarsz (29) *** Jaro Martinek (28 - Capt), Pawlo Gruzek (29), Zooey Stown (ARK - 28), Mariusz Czarny (22) *** Henryk Konopka (27), Zigmund Kaczor (21)
Conclusion: The start is vital for the ease of mind of a team and any normal side that would open their competition with four points in nine games would see a new coach and banners with ‘crisis’ written all over. Not so amongst the Tanners, where Libanovich repeated the eternal advice, to work on, and eventually the results did follow. Nonetheless, Garbarnia has slowly evolved into one of the least exciting sides of the competition, having hardly made enough goals to keep their own supporters awake. With the knowledge that relegation came too close for comfort, to attractive transfers were made. Zooey Stown, still the only female footballer in the league, was almost the only point of attraction of Haljo Vannarby last season and deserved to be saved of the hellhole called Second Division. Henryk Konopka, on the other hand, had a difficult season for Jottnar and was placed on the market, but Garbarnia recalled very well that he’s a strong attacker who could form an interesting partnership with Zigmund Kaczor.
A duo that, in theory, should cause opposing goalies to turn more than ten times around this season. With the addition of Stown to the midfield, the assisting passes should be assured. To fit in Stown, Gruzek moves to the right wing while Czarny is allowed to enjoy himself on left. The typical Garbarnia recipe, where a few skilful youngsters can ripe along with more experienced teammates, still holds on as Michal Bortkiewicz is added to the defence. With Bytnar beside him and international Jaro Martinek in front, he should learn quickly. The wings remain a cause for worry as neither Adamski nor P. Szylarsz (his brother, the striker Lothar, warms the bench) are a real threat.

Jottnar Kallsmudden

Home Stadium: Vingardarena (17.000 seats) in Kallsmudden, Ravnar (420.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 2th in the Top Division
Manager: Freddi Ulvan (52)
Starting XI: Andreas Remer (23) *** Luthvyk Meodu (PDY - 20), Rafal Giertych (23), Klaus Niederkirchner (22), Janus Czovlap (26) *** Slawko Konarski (31 - Capt), Jurgis Venclova (22), Petter Kluwshavl (27) *** Camden Stacks (SAR - 25), Sam Herbjornsrud (20), Arkadiusz Niceforski (22)
Conclusion: The past twelve months have been no less than a dream for Freddi Ulvan and his guys, as Jottnar amazed the crowd with attractive, offensive football which also brought in some results. An early elimination in the Cup seemed to be a bad omen, but it would be the only false note in a splendid symphony. Guided by a strong, well-knit midfield and wingers Stacks and Niceforski finding the goal better than ever before, Jottnar was leading the table halfway. Together with Bengtsmark, they challenged the supremacy of Viztourzys till the last matchday and a victory in the ultimate fixture rewarded them with a ticket for the Champions’ Cup. On a crossroad, the Jottnar management will try to cement this bright season into a continuous success, bringing the Giants back to their former status of top side in the Top Division.
For that purpose, money nor forces weren’t saved to ensure that the group of the previous year stuck together, whilst trying to identify the weaknesses in the long run. Eventually, three of the four oldest starting players were removed, a clear sign that Jottnar aims at the long run. Goalie Remer hasn’t filled the gloves of Bergh yet, but did well. The quartet in front of him sees quite some changes and that might be the main issue this year. As Castberg moves to Welanduz and Leif Burnar will spend his days on the bench, only Giertych stays where he was. The rapidly rising star (awarded with a Silver Youth) gets a new partner in crime with the promising Niederkirchner. His former mate, Czovlap moves to the wing, while the other side is occupied by Paradystopi prospect Luthvyk Meodu, who showed nice things for their national side. The midfield trio, the motor guided by captain Konarski, hasn’t altered, allowing the trio in front of them to score. Stacks and Niceforski raised their level last season and will be joined by a new youngster, Herbjornsrud. It will be hard for this young group to qualify for the Champions’ Cup again, but they are able to worry all top sides at any given match day. Certainly a Globe Cup side.

Pajukas Sport

Home Stadium: Bokstasstadion (8.400 seats) in Pajukas, Valneda (655.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 8th in the Top Division
Manager: Valdas Tomascevicius (42)
Starting XI: Gintaras Pleckaitis (19) *** Pilypas Petricius (31), Virgilijus Nojas (29), Aidan Martyn (NEP - 23), Kersten Thorup (24) *** Noel Amundsen (APX - 31 - Capt), Valeri Salnikov (21), Jonas Anselm (FLX - 26), Istvan Losokov (26), Sigi Prinsen (20) *** Aatos Sihvola (32)
Conclusion: Fourth in 2016 and runner-up one year later, quite some followers saw Pajukas Sport become the next big thing in Buyanese football. All seemed to be present, a management with the necessary bags of cash, wide support from the local government that believed that a capital city deserved a top team and a growing legion of fans. Despite a first trophy, not a lot is left of that sentiment two years later. The Boys in Green struggled to get a proper pace, fighting against relegation till the last few games again and again. As a result, the ambition has been adjusted to a calm, steady season from which they can build once again.
Not an easy task if you have to let go of one of your most promising youngsters, but the money Wladecki brought in was used well. Tomascevicius made some changes in the line-up, most notably trusting the youth player Pleckaitis between the posts, which caused back-up Valadius to move to Rellhovn. The back four stay the same, as after some difficult beginnings Nojas and Martyn seem to have adjusted to one another. Noel Amundsen, the Apoxian captain and the heart of the team, now sees a quartet of players in front of him and one could dare to say that the amount of talent he’s looking to is huge. Whilst Anselm and Losokov slowly rose to reliable yet punishing players, Salnikov and Prinsen are rising stars. Especially the addition of Sigi Prinsen from Welanduz might be a well-spend 450,000 Mint, he’s one to follow. As Gudaitis failed to deliver, scoring only once in his last fourteen appearances, Aatos Sihvola was brought in. Ironically to choose for an aging attacker who had a difficult year, but Pajukas hopes that this free agent can show one more time why he is fifth on the all-time list of goalscorers.

Seura Pohkakunti

Home Stadium: Paraati Areenalla (6.300 seats) in Pohkakunti, Haemiilu (45.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 11th in the Top Division
Manager: Paavo Rinne (44)
Starting XI: Lari Ruhvianen (29) *** Olaf Saari (33 - Capt), Alti Kohlemainen (23), Kai Ruutu (22), Lauri Sillema (20) *** Severi Vanhanen (24), Eerik Vehvilianen (22), Vaino Kuusi (26), Borje Rydell (25) *** Ivan Gudaitis (31), Risto Pajari (23)
Conclusion: The White Kids are a favourite amongst the masses, as this sympathetic underdog managed to survive their first year in the Top Division after a long hiatus with attractive and courageous football. On top of that all, Paavo Rinne led his boys to the Cup Final, a marvellous moment in the club history of this humble side, coming from a sleepy village on Haemiilu. Their youngsters had passed the test, but to pull that stunt again, the director knew very well that they would have to keep hold of their key players. Not an easy task for a club with little resources, yet they managed to hold of the many managers gazing for Risto Pajari who almost made it to topscorer. Even more, due to Gudaitis being redundant in Pajukas, they could bring in a second striker of allure.
Goalie Ruhvianen isn’t the pair of safest hands in the business, but will have to do. He and his defence took the most goals of all teams last season, but that might have to do with the offensive strategy of the team. Either way, the defensive has gotten a bit older, a bit more experienced and with old fox Saari and future Blue Hedgehog Kai Ruutu amongst them, they might withstand the pressure. The midfield is, as said, a bit too risky for comfort but when in form, the combinations of Kuusi, Rydell and Vehvilianen are something for which the crowd buys a ticket. They should provide the new formed attacking couple plenty to work with. By sending Haglund to the bench for Gudaitis, Rinne hopes to find a new assist king for their top striker. If Pajari can have another season like 2019, Seura Pohkakunti could well manoeuvre themselves out of the relegation zone.

Slask Pruczniwczo

Home Stadium: The Ring (5.000 seats) in Pruczniwczo, Baskin (55.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 7th in the Top Division
Manager: Pavel Guciek (50)
Starting XI: Francziszek Bogusz (23) *** Maxim Dziuba (24), Boeloe de Boeloe the’thirdde (PDY - 18), Povilas Rovnas (30), Evgueni Dziuba (27 - Capt) *** Cyryl Schulewski (29), Klemens Razevli (23), Marcos Pérez (SJG - 28), Frederich Kruger (26) *** Vincas Norkus (23), Gerolf Poluceck (26)
Conclusion: During their two seasons in the Top Division, Slask has made quite a name for themselves. The stubborn, hard-headed team from Baskin compensates their lack of flair with a combination of strong defenders and small go-getters as they always live up to their motto "no surrender". Said idea hasn't brought them bad fortune either, as they managed to grab a seventh place for the second year in succession. Their new signings became key players, most notably Guayabalan winger Marcos Pérez and the gifted Bogusz between the sticks. It resulted in a season in which all trembled to go to the small, yet cozy The Ring but, on the other hand, all could win once broken the lock. Pavel Guciek managed to keep his team together, despite strong interest of Blau-Weiss Pallstadt for Maxim Dziuba - according to whisperers backed by a 1.2 Mlj offer. Instead, Pruczniwczo comes out of the transfer period as a strengthened side.
The quartet in front of Bogusz can count on a new man, the strong and harsh Boeloe de Boeloe the'thirdde from Paradystopia, a young man who wil undoubtly quickly win the hearts of the local fans. With Maxim and his less talented but more experienced brother Evgueni Dziuba on the wings, this area is a key asset for Slask. The midfield often troubled Guciek, partially because of their tendency to grab that useless card, but the development made by Klemens Razevli is remarkable. Frederich Kruger rather serves as a helper for the more creative guys on the wings and the one who troubles the opposing defending midfield than a pure number ten, but that tactic paid off so far. Second addition to the club is Vincas Norkus, who left Torspeda where he never could get underneath the wings of Pentanen, but whose DBC participation is a prime example of his talent. It remains a question whether the collaboration with goalgetter Poluceck will work better.

Sparta Torspeda

Home Stadium: Pergale Stadionas (7.000 seats) in Torspeda, Valneda (175.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 6th in the Top Division
Manager: Tomas Sakalauskas (55)
Starting XI: Evaldas Sakalauskas (32) *** Rimantas Vaisvila (28), Benjamin Ceslovas (22), Juan Matias Somoza (NSI - 24), Tomas Karosas (29) *** Frederik Suhr (21), Mikael Kubilius (30 - Capt), Ricardas Vazinskis (23), Emmanuel Moga (NOV - 22) *** Vincas Daukas (32), Juha Pentanen (MYT - 29)
Description of team: In its fifth season in the Top Division, the Orange Brigade had hoped by now to have grown to the major Valnedan side in the nation. Things have gone in other directions, partially due to many of their talented youth players being transfered to shine elsewhere: Antanas Mamontovas, Jurgis Venclova, ... The newest addition to this list is Dmitri Plovnarov, who leaves Buyan behind for Farfadillis. Last year was already a tough nut and saw the firing of Linas Stutkus after six seasons as none of the first nine games was won. A more flexible new man came in charge and Tomas Sakalauskas did what he had to do (and even more). Not only did he get them out of the relegation zone, a few good months followed in which the Pergale Stadionas could enjoy top football. It remains a question how much of that positive vibe and hope remain with the departure of Plovnarov.
However, Plovnarovs new bosses did leave an interesting bag of cash behind and like a good housefather, the gaffer decided to both invest and save. In goal, he keeps trust in his nephew Evaldas, not always seen as the most reliable of guys but a household name. The back four really started to gel together lately, especially Somoza made an interesting evolution lately. In midfield, captain Kubilius in surrounded by talented guys as Suhr, Vazinskis and brand-new acquisition Emmanuel Moga. This Nova Anglican has quick and skilled feet and was considered a major talent for his former side Vinovium United, but will have to prove that he still shows up when more than talent is required. The second addition to Sparta might have been the most remarkable one as they have signed Vincas Daukas to shine next to Pentanen, their inevitable striker. Daukas hasn't played in over one and a half year due to knee injuries and was released by Viztourzys. Major question marks arise whether this former topscorer can find his old level again.

Thor Rellhovn

Home Stadium: Mellem to Strome (4.500 seats) in Rellhovn, Ravnar (105.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 1st in the Second Division West
Manager: Stig Ellering (53)
Starting XI: Egas Valadius (26) *** Aage Thomsen (28), Hans Thorup (23), Ludvig Thorkildsen (28), Viggo Gundersen (23) *** Andreas Ohlin (27), Ib Abrahamsen (26), Thomas Hovbjard (31), Arnold Rootare (22), Sigmund Dalby (31 - Capt) *** Ramunas Paulas (25)
Conclusion: After four long years, Mellem to Strome can welcome Top Division once more. It made the Heldensammlung the most active side on the transfer market, as they were well aware that the group that captured the title in the second division, much against the odds, would not suffice. On the other hand, Stig Ellering had to do the job with limited ressources and focussed on players who wanted a new battle chance. It leads to a group of hungry guys and on top of that, Rellhovn can count on the strong midfield that brought them success last year. Key to that is Arnold Rootare, a youngster who made the deliberate choice to stay in Rellhovn despite the cash thrown in his lap elsewhere, as he can lead this team as he want. If things fall in place, that should lead to a spot above the relegation battle, if not, they, Welanduz and Seura are up for a battle.
All four lines can count on a reinforcement, to start with the goalie. The aging Klapsberg moved to the bench, the gloves are entrusted on Egas Valadius who comes over from Pajukas where he had lost his place to the young Pleckaitis. Tjelberg youth product Hans Thorup reinforces the defence, in which we note Gundersen, a former striker who slowly fell down to the position of offensive wingback. Curious whether he can make it on a higher level as well, next to the reliable Thorkildsen who became the stronghold once he returned to the team that launched him after three years for Pollmarnang. The midfield is stubborn and build around Rootare, with the addition of Ohlin, once almost an international, now sold for a mild price by Bengtsmark. The lone striker will be Ramunas Paulas, who might have gathered 24 goals already in the Top Division, but never managed to shake off the name of 'eternal talent'... Till now?

Tjelberg Forening

Home Stadium: Den Dam (9.800 seats) in Tjellberg, Ravnar (120.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 5th in the Top Division
Manager: Dejan Heibye (51)
Starting XI: Palle Angst (26) *** Fredrik Sparre (28), Jesse Asmussen (26), Jonas Englund (30), Gabriel Refshauge (34) ** Jekke Eskildsen (22), Frank Berg (24), Mikhail Kondrashov (27 - MYT) *** Sil Moen (29 - Capt), Kjetil Harde (19), Henrik Ostergaard (24)
Description of team: The Forening comes out of an interesting season, in which they not only got another taste of UICA football but also showed they are a truly stable side in the top half of the league. The opening games of the competition almost saw them able to compete for the CC tickets, but a few injuries on a bad moment kept them out of that race. It shows both their advantages and weaknesses, as this side tends to hinge on a few key players. With another Globe Cup season ahead, it was a matter of keeping the team together and Sil Moen can be considered vital in that. Being not only the captain, but also the one player who grows above Top Division quality, he defines them as a side that will once again fight for a spot in the upper compartment of the table.
The rather unspectacular Angst has become a reliable starter and the defence has been enforced with the addition of Jonas Englund. The former Buyanese international parts ways with Bengtsmark, that paid him less than the Forening seems willing to do. Englund adds even more experience to a backline that can already rely on Sparre and veteran Refshauge, it should ignite a second spring for him. The midfield sees the addition of Frank Berg, coming from second divisionist Stovsand. He should be able to sentence Kubik to the bench. Especially Eskildsen has been a revelation in this part of the pitch, he is one to follow. The greatest loss for the Forening might be Aatos Sihvola. Despite a lesser season in 2019, he remains an insurance on goals, something which remains a question mark for the young Kjetil Harde who picked up his spot. Overall, they should clinch a Globe Cup spot if the group remains fit.

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis

Home Stadium: Nova Pylimasstadionas (15.500 seats) in Viztourzys, Valneda (120.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 1st in the Top Division
Manager: Edgaras Zarnevidis (51)
Starting XI: Manuel Schmidt (30) *** Kazimieras Zemaitis (24), Firecrest (CRY - 33), Bronius Bartkus (28 - Capt), Jutte Hulsvist (23) *** Feliks-Oskar Pfyffydghoerraks (MBI - 5), Vridrich Lammerschon (24), Ansas Kairys (23), Matias Delafuente (FFD - 22) *** Jochen Ptak (23), Stefan Hostmann (18)
Conclusion: The Red Machine could celebrate a fifth national title in six editions and inevitably starts the season as the main favourite. Last year, things were not all that great, as evidenced by a rather hesitating start and a fourth spot somewhere halfway. But in the end, the pure class of the defence and the stinging talent of guys like Hostmann and not in the least Matias Delafuente set them on route for success. Guided by their Farf superstar, they once again aim for no less than the title, hopefully to be combined with a rather successful international season. But once again, the fans will have to accept a few changes in the starting line-up and one could wonder whether the rather young team will continue to deal with these alterations.
On the plus side, the trio in front of goal seems to be written in stone. Schmidt shows regularly why the former Rüntenbacher is a regular starter, Bartkus is a local legend and Firecrest still adds horsepower to the team, although the years might start to catch up with him. On the wings, Giedius Justs has chosen for an adventure abroad where he will play for the Venalzian side Commercianti. Slightly surprising, his replacement is Jutte Hulsvist, who had a difficult season along with all Haljo players. The midfield is quite shook up as well. Karsta Lupeikis is still recovering and Paro Eligius was released as he as well could not fill the gap on the defensive midfield position left two years ago by Danilius Wreczius. As a solution, Ansas Kairys is raised from the bench, while the international transfer of the off-season was made by the acquisition of Pfyffydghoerraks. The Paradystopian star midfielder coming from Zephyrous Knoll could either be the greatest player to hit these regions or a horrible mistake. Quite probably, he’ll be both, depending on the game. In attack, Hostmann almost overtakes Ptak when it comes to firepower, as the latter seems to struggle with the international level despite being very effective domestically.

Welanduz Vadshult

Home Stadium: Lyckastadion (4.600 seats) in Vadshult, Mullsphall (495.000 inhabitants)
Last Season: 10th in the Top Division
Manager: Jonas Ellering (55)
Starting XI: Tim Widforss (33) *** David Stenbeck (28), Edvald Castberg (29), Marten Brod (29), Torkel Friberg (20) *** Paro Eligius (22), Mattias Sture (24), Dan Gelson (27), Gosta Posse (23) *** Johan Hammargren (32), Erwin Kroempf (29)
Conclusion: And because sometimes, we have to end with the ugly duckling – or just because of their unusual W-based prefix – we end this preview with an insight on Welanduz Vadshult, a side that seldom excited last season but that ensured another year in the Top Division with a very decent mid-season streak. Despite the calm months in the small Lyckastadion, the team from the second-biggest city of the nation are well aware that standstill will eventually cause relegation, inspiring them to a trio of new players. We can’t say it is not necessary, after losing out on their greatest talent. Sigi Prinsen got seduced by the sportive project and financial prospects of Pajukas and moves out of Vadshult. Although go hasn’t been the key player for Welanduz yet, he surely will be missed in time.
Jonas Ellering opts for the known recipe, a 4-4-2 where the midfield relies on two holding and two offensive midfielders. Widforss is a giant between the posts, but age hasn’t made him more agile. In front of him, Welanduz welcomes Edvald Castberg who left Jottnar as his starting spot there got disputed. This might prove a clever addition in the long term. The midfield might be their question mark. Paro Eligius went through rough times with Viztourzys, can he deal with the issues of relegation football? Dan Gelson is still the conductor, but has often been criticized for his effectiveness. To solve that issue, Ellering added Erwin Kroempf to their veteran striker Hammargren. Kroempf has a wide experience as punishing striker for teams such as Blau-Weiss, Pollmarnang and Torspeda, but was released of the latter for bad conduct last season. Will he be able to show why Sirius Hope once added him to the national selection?

[Buyan]

February 2020

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February 10 – Tuesday

Series B Champions’ Cup
First Preliminary Round (first leg)

Tillsamman Stensund (BYN) - Olask Islanders (COS) 2-0

Tilsamman Stensund was the first to set foot at the pitch this year as they made their international debut against Olask Islanders, a side from the Cosumar Sekundär Ligan that in the far past already had two short-lived SBCC campaigns. Not too long ago, the Islanders were a solid mid-table team in the Harlighet Ligan but an annus horribilis after losing Tommi Koskinen, a starter for the Cosumar national team, send them one flight down. In their third year there, they’re back at their feet with a fourth place but they clearly had some sort of nerves. Tilsamman quickly opened the score through their new attacker Lewi Fiersten and doubled up before the break with a header from Matthias Sagelund. After the coffee, it all was a bit less, Olask came close to a goal that would have brought them right back in the game but veteran goalie Jon Ingeson was at his best. A good opener for Stensund who can travel to Cosumar with good hopes.

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February 12 – Thursday

Globe Cup
First Preliminary Round (first leg)

Deyair FC (TOR) - Tjelberg Forening (BYN) 0-0

It was Tjelberg Forening who opened the Globe Cup season for Buyan with a trip to Torisakia’s Deyair FC, a side that had assured their place in international football with a second spot in the regular competition and a bronze medal in the Xoyran Cup, the elimination stage of the Torisakian football pyramid. Tjelberg was still in a pre-season atmosphere, missing amongst others the injured Gabriel Refshauge and Sil Moen who was given some extra rest by manager Heibye after a lengthy international season. No surprise that it was Deyair that dominated the first half in front of their home crowd, but a header by Josh Mikita only hit the woodwork. Tjelberg came back into the game in a more entertaining second half, which saw chances at both sides of the pitch, but Ostergaard saw his chip end at the wrong side of the post, while a screamer by Jonathan Garcia was stopped in its tracks by a thorough Palle Angst. The last chance was for Kondrashov, who received a long pass by Jonas Englund – debuting for Forening after ten seasons for Bengtsmark –, moved past his marker and got a one-on-one situation, but his shot lacked the power to surprise the goalie. Nil-nil and all would be decided in Den Dam next week.

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February 15 – Sunday

Ulcan Super Cup

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis - Bengtsmark IF 1-1 (2-1 AET)

The Nine, the national stadium located in Dyatinsk, had only half filled up for the first edition of the Super Cup between the Cup winner and the Top Division champion, for commercial reasons dubbed the Ulcan Super Cup. Both sides were clearly still in the preparation phase of the year, missing their representatives who played in the Cup of Harmony or the World Cup. Without Bartkus or Delafuente and with Zemaitis and their new signing Pfyffydghoerraks on the bench, the Red Machine was more of a youth side but with Jutte Hulsvist debuting. Bengtsmark, on the other hand, couldn’t count on Naess, Maniche and Schi, while the position next to Mamontovas still was empty. Some tabloids had already mentioned the signing of Felixian international Alexis Garcia, but this appeared to be too quick. As a solution, Markushovn debuted two 18-year olds, Ake Ljung and Gudmund Tegner. With all these stars missing, this was more of a friendly than a fight for an actual trophy.

Those who had been so rash to buy a ticket had to wait over half an hour before Zunzarren opened the game with a shot on the post and that would be all for the opening half. After the break, things lighted up a bit with Viztourzys taking over the command. Jochen Ptak came close to the opening goal but Saldlund had his hand against the shot of the top scorer of the 2018 season. But it was only stay of execution, a clever combination of Kairys and Hostmann allowed the latter to score. Viztourzys continued to dominate, but Ragulas missed an open opportunity. It gave Bengtsmark the chance to score on one of their few counters, with Ake Ljung launching Steffen Lindelöf who did not hesitate eye in eye with Schmidt, only his second goal for the Yellows for Lindelöf. The farce had been this game was forced into extra-time this way. Zarnevidis immediately brought Pfyffydghoerraks on for his debut in the infamous red-and-black shirt and he immediately proved important when setting up a stinging attack in which he kept three defenders occupied, making it easy for Vridrich Lammerschon to score. The first trophy of the season was for Viztourzys, but it is impossible to distillate a lot of conclusions from this.

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February 17 – Tuesday

Series B Champions’ Cup
First Preliminary Round (second leg)

Olask Islanders (COS) - Tillsamman Stensund (BYN) 2-2

Stensund had their first game abroad and appeared a bit star-struck when setting foot at the pitch in Olask. Before they had probably reassured themselves that they were playing internationally, attacker Sergio Vilar – reserve for the Dragons, the Cosumar national side – forced Ingeson to grab the ball out of his net. Once recovered of the first shock, Tillsamman slowly got back into it and a scrimmage with Fiersten having the last foot brought them tied. Twenty minutes before the last whistle, all doubt was removed with a goal by Sven Bramlinger. Although the Islanders scored one more, it was Tillsamman Stensund for whom the international dream continued with a double match against Real Baoyam, an interesting game against the Barangayan side.

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February 19 – Thursday

Globe Cup
First Preliminary Round (second leg)

Tjelberg Forening (BYN) - Deyair FC (TOR) 3-0

After a difficult game in Torisakia, Dejan Heibye considered it wiser to field his best side in Den Dam in front of a crowd of seven thousand fans. Most notably the presence of Sil Moen brought a lot more life into the action, creating a danger on the left wing for his junior partners in attack, Henrik Ostergaard and Kjetil Harde. It was the latter who almost made his first goal for Forening, but an ultimate reflex from the Deyair goalie refused him the goal. Deyair turned it up a notch as well and after a untimely sliding of Sparre, Angst had to save a dangerous free kick. Three minutes before the break, Eskildsen and Kondrashov started a doublepass, resulting in quite some space for Moen near the sideline. Van De Laar got his head against his through ball before Kjetil Harde could, but the ball ended up in the feet of Ostergaard who did not doubt to score the opening goal. It broke the spirit of the courageous Torisakians and apart from a shot on goal for Gonzalez Isle international Jonathan Garcia, Tjelberg dominated the second half. Sil Moen opened his tally for the season with a chip from up close and a shot from Asmussen that bounced off a defender determined the final scoreline: 3-0 and a qualification for the next round, where they would travel to Isula Ge Ru.

While the Buyanese clubs fared well, our two compatriots playing abroad already present in this stage of the UICA competitions saw their campaign cut short. Giedius Justs’ Commercianti couldn’t recover a 2-0 loss in the first game, the Venalzian side drew against Cosumar side Klyde and are eliminated. The same goes for Laketown Rangers and Stefan Ladsell, who received a harsh 4-0 on the field of Salchar’s Tribal. Opening their UICA story next round will be Barbury Town, with Devold, Carrubonieta Il Gueti, with Zermin and the Canterlot Royals with Marco Castell against respectively West Angolan Huambo, FC Portus from Nova Anglicana and Albi e Léf, representing Segovesia.

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February 22 – Sunday

Presidents Cup
Opening Round (first leg)

Hretha Somlhus 2–1 Asociacija Uraugai
Forbund Bengtsmark 0–2 IFK Pollmarnang
Druzhna Rovers 0–2 Ernesse Stahl
Mechler Fusscollectiv 2–3 Pelta Union
Paszai Association 1–5 22. Czerwiec Grozno
Onwards Hollkoping 2–1 Ruch Siepoclawycz
Ciegnalki Motor 0–0 FV Vannarby
Fiarsdal Forening 4–2 Mirzich Jedenascie
Daring Knavca 0–1 Grephel Gryphionen
Kuinopi Club 0–1 Tjallimvarn Kickers
Quellsfeld Freunde 1–1 JX Jurbiskis
Hattrick Zeimgava 1–0 Kaemper Norderud
Aigil Grephel 1–0 FC Pajukas
Phonix Darvell 5–2 Grunshoffer Allianz
Siklapaa Jalkapallo 1–0 Virksomhet Stovsand
AA Vadshult 5–0 Feldhammer Havik

The opening round of the Presidents Cup marked the opening of the season for all sides of the Second Division, bar Haljo Vannarby - relegated last season -, Gornik Wladica, Linnameeskond Harseni and Tillsamman Stensund over their performances last season. Not too many conclusions could or should be taken from these results, but some interesting ones caught the eye. The ambitious Asociacija Uraugai had a tough opener against a courageous Hretha Somlhus. IFK Pollmarnang got a good result despite being almost sold out, Seb Lundgren made the second goal. The investments of Ernesse Stahl, very eager to make the united Second Division next season, seem to pay off. The clear victory of Czerwiec Grozno demonstrated their eagerness, but it was more expected than the thrashing of Feldhammer Havik by AA Vadshult. A minor surprise was notorious underperformer Hattrick Zeimgava grabbing the win, but apart from four to five exceptions, all was yet to be decided in the second leg.

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February 25 – Wednesday

Cygnus Cup
First Round (first leg)

Bengtsmark IF (BYN) – The Core (SLR) 3-0

The odyssey of Bengtsmark IF in the Cygnus Cup saw its first steps being taken in the own Havssidanstadion against The Core, a squad representing Salchar, a relatively unknown to international football. After all it was the first time a side with roots in that nation participated in the competition for domestic cup winners and The Core could even bank on much more as they grabbed a domestic double, edging out the surprising Vulcan FC in the final after picking up the title by the narrowest of margins against Awamonatai. For Bengtsmark it was the first official game of the season at home and still a few players were lacking, no in the least Harald Naess. But Felipe Maniche was returning and he showed that World Cup experience had only made his shot more stinging. With a splendid strike, he opened the score after only eight minutes and The Core had to accept that IF dominated throughout the first half. A myriad of chances only resulted in one additional goal, Edvald Mattisson was in the right spot for a corner kick from Yakobe Zunzarren. The second half was of lesser quality and Saldlund was more busy than his conculleague on the other side of the pitch, but it was Felipe Maniche that placed the final scoreline on the board.

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February 29 – Sunday

Presidents Cup
Opening Round (second leg)

Asociacija Uraugai 0–0 Hretha Somlhus (aggr. 1-2)
IFK Pollmarnang 0–0 Forbund Bengtsmark (aggr. 2-0)
Ernesse Stahl 4–3 Druzhna Rovers (aggr. 6-3)
Pelta Union 0–0 Mechler Fusscollectiv (aggr. 3-2)
22. Czerwiec Grozno 4–1 Paszai Association (aggr. 9-2)
Ruch Siepoclawycz 3–3 Onwards Hollkoping (aggr. 4-5)
FV Vannarby 0–2 Ciegnalki Motor (aggr. 0-2)
Mirzich Jedenascie 1–2 Fiarsdal Forening (aggr. 3-6)
Grephel Gryphionen 3–3 Daring Knavca (aggr. 4-3)
Tjallimvarn Kickers 3–6 Kuinopi Club (aggr. 4-6)
JX Jurbiskis 0–0 Quellsfeld Freunde (aggr. 1-1, JX on away goals)
Kaemper Norderud 2–3 Hattrick Zeimgava (aggr. 2-4)
FC Pajukas 1–1 Aigil Grephel (aggr. 1-2)
Grunshoffer Allianz 2–0 Phonix Darvell (aggr. 4-5)
Virksomhet Stovsand 2–4 Siklapaa Jalkapallo (aggr. 2-5)
Feldhammer Havik 1–0 AA Vadshult (aggr. 5-1)

It became an afternoon with no extra-times and relatively few upsets for our second divisionists. Most of those who were considered able to endanger a side from a higher flight in the next round made it, with the exceptions of Asociacija Uraugai, Druzhna Rovers, Mechler Fusscollectiv and Tjallimvarn Kickers. Uraugai was rather disappointing at home, they could not find the key to unlock the Somlhus defence and should already focus on the competition. For Druzhna, a difficult draw played its part as well, as the ambitious Stahl profits from players such as their attacking duo which contains veteran Ludwig Pelzner and the quick Kurt Livorski. Das Fusscollectiv, on the other hand, have no one to blame but themselves, they performed heavily below par against Pelta Union. But the spectacle of this round was without any doubt what happened on the field of Tjallimvarn Kickers. Holm had opened the score for the home team and halfway, nothing seemed to go wrong. What followed was a bonkers second half, in which Kuinopi Club fought back against all odds, seemed to falter when Tjallimvarn turned the 1-3 into 3-3, but scored thrice in the last quarter, slightly aided by two red cards for the Kickers. Ahto Looke became this Sunday’s hero with three goals, he will have his face in the morning papers and his fifteen minutes of fame.

[Buyan]

March 2020

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March 2 – Tuesday

Series B Champions’ Cup
Second Preliminary Round (first leg)

Tilsamman Stensund (BYN) – Real Baoyam (TRB) 3-2
Faelles Cinluw (TOR) – Linnameeskond Harseni (BYN) 1-2

Stensund received their second foreign guests with Real Baoyam, a side that represents the Royal Barangay after coming in second in the Liga Maharlika Segunda, which allows them to compete in the highest year this season. It is the second occasion on which the side partakes at the SBCC and they were ready to show Tilsamman a bad time. With a quick attack of the mark, Shaun Paraiso opened the score for them. The home side fought back, however, and with a goal by Matthias Sagelund, both sides were drawn at the halfway mark. Baoyam, however showed why they lasted three rounds last time around and once again took the initiative and Paraiso doubled up. When Ravlund tripped the skilled attacker in the box, the faith of Tilsamman seemed signed, but Ingesson blocked the shot of Dominick Ung. It became the start of a heroic return by Stensund, with Lewi Fiersten marking the equaliser and Jorg Bagelin becoming the man of the match when a seemingly desperate volley of his ended in the net of the Barangayan goalie. Stensund enters the second game with a slim lead.

Linnameeskond managed to manoeuvre themselves into an even better position with a very mature game on the field of Faelles Cinluw. The Torisakian opponent had qualified themselves for the SBCC in a remarkable way, as they ended fifth in the regular competition but battled themselves through the knock-out stages, resulting in a trophy in the cupboard. Nonetheless it was Harseni that took the initiative, coach Haavanen had opted for a 5-3-2 and that proved to be a correct decision. Wing defenders Jussi Spatali and Pekka Kurilinen could steam along the side time and time again and one particularly well-placed pass from Spatali resulted in the opening goal by Sulkinen. Cinluw came out of the dressing room with a stronger spirit, but their best chance on a goal splintered on the crossbar, it even was Linnameeskond who could double up, a quick counterattack brought Steffen Erku alone in front of the goalie. His chip was deflected by opposing defender Vroomen, but the 0-2 remained a fact. The Torisakians now besieged the opposing goal and Tommy Bastiaansen could bring back the suspense for the second duel in Harseni with a marvellous free kick.

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March 4 – Thursday

Globe Cup
Second Preliminary Round (first leg)

Golden City (SUS) – Blau-Weiss Pallstadt (BYN) 0-2
Isula Esiru (ISR) – Tjelberg Forening (BYN) 1-2

For the first game of their season, Blau-Weiss Pallstadt was taking the trip to the Star United States where they would feature in the Golden Stadium against local side Golden City. It was a first presence of this side in UICA football, who surprisingly qualified for the domestic Soccer Major League Final against City of Star. In said game, they only came short on penalties to grab the title. For Pallstadt, this would be the maiden match of Bartosz Wladecki, the man who has a major task to carry: to close the gap in midfield for Blau-Weiss and allow them to compete for prices. In the opening half, both sides tried to get to know one another with a rather defensive stance, which resulted in few chances. A shot of Barnna was deflected by Jan Erhardt, at the other side of the pitch Duco Dalmshelf – seemingly in a dip after a poor Cup of Harmony – spoiled a major chance.
After the break, Kullersdorf chose for a more attacking point of view, sending in the young Friedrich Riesling for a moderate Hueppe. The 19-year old, who so far only had amassed 24 minutes in the infamous blue-white tricot, quickly created a first good opportunity, Dalmshelf once again couldn’t be punishing. It was only stay of execution for Golden City, Pallstadt was in a higher gear now and it was veteran David the Heroic who opened the score. With a clever run through the offside trap, he brought himself in front of the goalie and didn’t hesitate. Only four minutes later, it was Piotr Kluszak who made the second leg in Unter dem Linden abundant. A quick doublepass with Riesling and a fake were all he needed to poke in hole in the opposing defence, 0-2. Golden City couldn’t recover of this, only a late red card for Vrintz placed a dark spot on a solid performance for Pallstadt.

Our second representatives in the Globe Cup, Tjelberg Forening made the trip to Isula ge Ru. Their opponents, Isula Esiru, had been pushed of the cloud they had been on last season and seemed eager for revenge. Although they always were to be considered a respectable side, they surprisingly managed to win not only their regional Liga Occia but also the national title, holding Maria CF of a third straight title with a 2-0 victory in the last game against Orie Cea. However, it appeared as if Zvolen FC from West Carpathia had already pushed them of their cloud when they eliminated them in the opening round of the Champions’ Cup. Tjelberg had learned their lesson against Deyair in the opening round and presented themselves at the kick-off with their best eleven. Only an injured Palle Angst was missing, Rasmus Beck picked up the gloves for this game.
Beck immediately had to use those as well as Isula Esiru wanted to show why they brought home the title in the ‘A Liga Argega’ but a few good reflexes kept the nil on the board. After a tough opening fifteen minutes, Tjelberg finally got out of the pressure and immediately marked. A scrimmage in front of goal placed the ball in front of Frank Berg and the defensive midfield did not hesitate. It took quite some time before Isula Esiru got past that setback, but once they did, they found the way to the net as well. Right wing Mitu Maria Albu Saida gave the man who deals with the scoreboard some extra work. Nonetheless, it would be Tjelberg that left the field with the most favourable situation. Kjetil Harde went down after a light touch and the referee nor Sil Moen hesitate. “It’s a slim margin,” Moen realised, “but we should be able to hold on to it. Isula Esiru is a strong side but our plan works.”

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March 6 – Saturday

Top Division
Match Day One

Sparta Torspeda 0–0 Thor Rellhovn
Jottnar Kallsmudden 0–0 Seura Pohkakunti
Bengtsmark IF 3–2 Welanduz Vadshult
Pajukas Sport 1–3 Slask Pruzniwczo

The opening match of the competition is usually a parade of nervous sides, one less confident than the next one with the knowledge that from this point onwards, the days of fun friendlies and relaxed press moments are over. This Saturday formed no exception to this rule, as only Bengtsmark had set foot on the grass in an official game so far and that said endeavour hadn’t fared with the hoped success. For debutant Thor Rellhovn, visiting Pergale Stadionas was a welcome opener after four years in the purgatory of Second Division. The Orange Brigade had a surprise in store with dropping Moga on the bench, claiming that he still “needed to adapt a little more”. It didn’t brought Sparta much power, they played rather uninspired and it would be Thor that had the best opportunities. But Sakalauskas kept hold of a screamer by Dalby and Ramunas Paulas somehow managed to waste a genius pass by Arnold Rootare. The same score would stay on the board for ninety minutes during the duel between Jottnar and Seura, much to the disappointment of the home fans who had hoped for positive signals with the Champions’ Cup preliminaries coming closer. The Giants did dominate the game, but Herbjornsrud couldn’t escape the tight grip of the duo Kohlemainen & Ruutu. Eventually, Ivan Gudaitis had the best chance of the match, but he failed to put the crown on a strong debut for the White Kids.
And so it was that football supporters had to be in the Havssidanstadion for some excitement. Bengtsmark IF, still scrounging the international market for a new central defender, received Welanduz Vadshult and the visitors, mockingly named the ugly duckling of the competition after the departure of Sigi Prinsen, immediately showed that they were more than that. Erwin Kroempf scored the first goal of the competition, shaking his fist against those who had declared his career over and done with already. Welanduz continued to play fresh and without fair against a cramped Bengtsmark, but the inevitable Felipe Maniche pulled it back level. Half-way the second half, the Yellows even took the lead when a shot from far out by Schi deflected off a leg and found the back of the net. A goal by Zunzarren signed the faith of a courageous Welanduz, a screamer by Posse cutting the gap in half came too late. Less suspense in the Bokstasstadion, where the home team once again seems to start the league underneath bad omens. In the warm-up, new signing Prinsen sprained his leg, postponing his debut. But it wasn’t the only reason Pajukas was poor against Slask. Attacker Sihvola remained somewhere in the backpocket of the strong de Boeloe the’thirdde and Poluceck was in lethal form. With still thirty-five minutes to play, he had scored twice and Pérez had marked the nil-three. A late penalty, by Amundsen, wasn’t even a consolation. “It’s not a good start,” the Apoxian captain sighed, “but the first game just counts for three points, nothing more.”

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March 7 – Sunday

Top Division
Match Day One

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Tjelberg Forening 1–1 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt

The victorious Ulcan Cup had brought some ease amongst the ranks of the Red Machine, who did wonder whether their talented yet junior squad would be up for another season at the top of the league. Of the great names, only Zemaitis was not present due to some physical issues. The Tanners on the other hand looked forward to the debut of Zooey Stown, a more than surprising addition to the otherwise so colourless team. The only female player in the league immediately sparked up the game with a through pass, Zigmund Kaczor saw his attempt stopped by an attentive Manuel Schmidt. It would be Garbarnia, however, who continued to give away the best impression. After a year in which few attacks were seen by the team in brown, they suddenly showed creativity at the premium. Marius Czarny only missed a chance by a toe, but it would be Konopka who made the opening goal. Sent out of Jottnar after a moderate season, ‘Robokonop’ seemed to have found back his nerve in front of goal, only a strong Schmidt kept the score from doubling. Schmidt probably was the only one who didn’t receive a harsh whipping in half-time and Viztourzys played much better in the second half. However, Garbarnia remained stubborn and it wasn’t but eight minutes before the final minute that Stefan Hostmann could find the back of the net. “One point is not enough,” realised the youngster, “but my congratulations to Garbarnia, they deserved this.”
The remaining Sunday duel saw our two competitors in the Globe Cup battle it out for points. Both entered the field with quite some confidence after their victorious duel in the UICA competition and the spectators were spoiled with tense, yet fair football. Only goals remained missing as cherry on top of the cake, where both Jan Erhardt and Rasmus Beck - still replacing Angst - managed to fend off opportunity after opportunity. It was the home team that eventually managed the breakthrough, a sharp corner by Seppo Kauppi bounced off the defence, a shot by Orani got blocked by Asmussen but it was Marko Maurer who was near the ball, the Mytanar defender placed the ball in the roof of the goal. It prides Tjelberg that they continued their gameplay, even tilting Frank Berg forward into a 4-1-2-3, which greatly troubled a slightly overwhelmed Wladecki. No wonder that it was Berg who opened up the attack that would result in the equaliser, he found Kjetil Harde unmarked who had a clever pass for Henrik Ostergaard in store. Osti decided the game with a beautiful screamer in the top corner, the goal of the match day without a doubt. Both teams deserved more than a point, but “we should be glad with this score,” Kullersdorf realised. With this, Slask Pruzniwczo was the first leader and Bengtsmark the slightly surprising winner of the match day of the top teams.

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March 9 – Tuesday

Series B Champions’ Cup
Second Preliminary Round (second leg)

Real Baoyam (TRB) - Tilsamman Stensund (BYN) 1-2
Linnameeskond Harseni (BYN) - Faelles Cinluw (TOR) 0-0

The stadium of Real Baoyam had filled up pretty nicely for the return game. Real might be the second side in town after the infamous Racing Xinghua Baoyam, they can count on a loyal group of supporters who had realistic ambitions for their side to make it, considering the tight match in Stensund. In need for a victory, Real pressed Tilsamman against their own net, but Jon Ingesson was in a splendid form, halting a marvellous bicycle kick of Shaun Paraiso. Halfway, the Buyanese team had managed to keep the scoreboard clean, forcing the Barangayans to move their troops forwards. It immediately allowed Tilsamman to play on the counterattack and Lewi Fiersten was lethal on one of those: he slipped through off-side and chipped the ball in. With nothing left to lose, Baoyam attacked and with result: Erwin de Leon scored after a corner kick. But Tilsamman gained more and more ground on the exhausted Baoyam and Sagelund scored the last goal of the day, pushing Stensund to the next round. “It was more survival than football,” Ingesson admitted, “but another day, another trip.”

The match in the small Alalla Ampujat (1800 seats) was a lot less exciting. The winners of the Torisakian Xojran Cup knew that there was little chance to overturn the result they suffered at home and seemed to accept the result. However, not after a tense opening fifteen minutes, in which Linnameeskond could thank goalie Finn Ralaanen for his pair of save hands. When the opening storm had died down, Linnameeskond had little trouble to keep their opponent occupied. Matti Sulkinen even came close to the goal that would have ended the duel but the post refused to give in. With one team incapable of overturning the deadlock and one team satisfied with the result, the match slowly moved to the last whistle. Three minutes before the referee ended this unentertaining game, Cinluw had one last chance but the assistant referee judged that the shot from Tommy Bastiaansen hadn’t crossed the line - correctly, it appeared from video footage. Linnameeskond Harseni could prepare itself for a double match against Euran Arrowsmith, immediately a much harder task. For Tilsamman, Paradystopian Dzyes Riotte awaits while Thor Rellhovn plays the Equestrian Manehattan Manticores.

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March 11 – Thursday

Globe Cup
Second Preliminary Round (second leg)

Tjelberg Forening (BYN) - Isula Esiru (ISR) 3-1
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt (BYN) - Golden City (SUS) 2-0

With a series of good performances so far in mind, Tjelberg Forening confidently looked forward to the duel in their own Den Dam. Dejan Heibye even dared to rest Mikhail Kondrashov, who seemed to struggle with a few minor issues. Isula Esiru, however, hadn’t come to the Buyanese archipelago to visit the infamous cone-shaped houses of the Ravnar region, they immediately pressed for an early goal, the only way to qualify themselves. Palle Angst, returning after an ankle injury, showed that he was back in form. Furthermore, with a throw up field to Henrik Ostergaard, he launched the opening goal, the first one for a hardworking Harde. “Let us hope that it’s the first of many,” the good-natured youngster grinned, “and if we continue like that, there might be a few international ones amongst that as well.”
Isula Esiru was slightly baffled over the accuracy of the side in their characteristic purple sets and this gave the opportunity for Sil Moen to double the score before half-time. Isula Esiru did a humble attempt to change the course of the match in the second half, even got a goal past Angst, but the last word was for Jonas Englund. Englund seems to have adapted well to his new side and gets rewarded with a nice header on an assist of Moen. “I’ll be honest, I’m a bit surprised by how good I feel at the moment as well. I estimated the incubation period to be a bit longer, but I’m feeling really well in Tjelberg. The Forening has been extremely hospitable towards me,” the former Bengtsmark defender added. Together with his side, Englund can prepare himself for a confrontation with Old Haven from The Icemark, that already eliminated Bridge City from Firinsymnia and Madruguinha Buneco Clube from Capivara.

Blau-Weiss was already at relatively safe ground and opted to keep - along with the suspended Vrintz - the Heroic and Maurer on the bench. In a strange 3-3-3-1 formation, Pallstadt immediately set the pace. Kullersdorf had made no secret of it that he expected something from Duco Dalmshelf after two poor games in a row, in which he seemed incapable of hitting anything. Kluszak did attempt to launch the topscorer of the past season on two or three occasions, but the twenty-three year-old once again wore the wrong shoes. A cross from him got nowhere near the woodwork and if it weren’t for an ultimate reflex of Jan Erhardt, it would have been Golden City’s Richard Jamerson who would have opened the score instead. Nonetheless, Blau-Weiss took the lead just before half-time when Wladecki found an unmarked Seppo Kauppi near the box and the former Pohkakunti player scored from a sharp angle.
The second half did not provide too much excitement for the crowd of almost nine thousand people in Unter dem Linden which inspired manager Helmut Kullersdorf to throw in some young wolves. It was once again Riesling who left a fine impression on us all, with a smooth dribble on the left wing past two opposing defenders he presented the second goal to Dalmshelf and even out of shape he could not miss from such a short distance. Golden City would have to leave the premises without a goal, although they did deserve a penalty when Milosevici tackled Mark Barnna in an incorrect fashion. Either way, Pallstadt is up for a next round against North Bury, the champion from Hutt River that had squashed Salvan City from Beaverriver and Vilitan Arcticala Inlet after an early elimination from the Champions’ Cup.

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March 14 – Sunday

League Cup
Duel One

Group North: Welanduz Vadshult 0-2 Seura Pohkakunti
Group West: Jottnar Kallsmudden 1-1 Thor Rellhovn
Group East: Pajukas Sport 2-2 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis
Group South: Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 3-2 Garbarnia Hoyersko

Judging by the limited interest of the audience, as we counted nowhere more than six-thousands fans, the League Cup still hasn’t exactly gained the interest of the audience. Nonetheless, we must say that such was the loss of those who preferred to stay at home as the first four duels of the League Cup provided quite some action. The concept behind the competition is rather clear, four regional groups of three Top Division teams face each other twice, the victors qualify for semi-finals and a final later on, for which victory allows a ticket to the Campionato Esportivano de Campeones. A clever set-up, especially with quite some derbies on the agenda, but the fact that the games are far apart might not have added to the suspense.
However, none of those in Unter dem Linden will have regretted their presence. Blau-Weiss immediately discovered how Garbarnia had held Viztourzys at a draw seven days earlier and with the Globe Cup game still in the legs, it were the visitors who opened the scoreline through Kaczor. The home side fought back and David the Heroic tilted the game with a goal and an assist for Riesling, who has won the hearts of the fans quickly. It was not yet the end of the drama, Zooey Stown scored her first one for the Tanners bringing it back level. Eventually youngster Bortkiewicz was the scapegoat of the day, an unnecessary handsball allowed Kluszak to score the winning goal for Pallstadt from the penalty point. A more controversial penalty was also noted in the Lyckastadion, where Welanduz had difficulties to pierce a well-organised Seura Pohkakunti. Although the best chances were for Vadshult, the game seemed to drag towards a scoreless draw. In the 85th minute, however, Risto Pajari went down in the box and despite protests from Welanduz - which brought a red card on Stenbeck - the referee pointed to the eleven meter point. Borje Rydell scored and too the annoyance of the crowd, Risto Pajari doubled up before teasing the fans. “We’ll get our revenge,” a disgruntled Welanduz coach Ellering swore.
Group East and West would both see a draw as final result. In the derby between the Ravnarian sides Kallsmudden and Rellhovn, the visitors showed once more that they are an acquisition for the highest flight of Buyanese football. Without much complexes, they attempted to dictate the law against the number two of last season and from time to time, Thor Rellhovn - and more specifically Arnold Rootare - managed to silence the Vingardarena. Remer did get his hands on attempts from Ramunas Paulas and Ib Abrahamsen but he couldn’t prevent the champion of the Second Division to get in front through a volley from Hovbjard. That was exactly the stimulus Jottnar needed, they tied the game with a lucky strike by Camden Stacks but had to be content with one point. Both Pajukas and Viztourzys had a disappointed opening match of the competition behind them and looked for rehabilitation. It were the Boys in Green who appeared more capable to do so, they dominated and eventually cashed on that with a goal by Istvan Losokov. But the Red Machine isn’t to be taken lightly, Jochen Ptak got the equaliser past a startled Pleckaitis and only two minutes later, Firecrest hoofed another one past the Pajukas goalie. Sport, backed by their fans, fought back and very well deserved the point garnered after a deflected shot from Aidan Martyn.

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March 17 – Wednesday

Cygnus Cup
First Round (second leg)

The Core (SLR) – Bengtsmark IF (BYN) 2-0

Before the Yellows travelled to the heart of Salchar City to meet the local greats, the qualification seemed already a fact. Later, Markushovn would point to a few injured players such as Mamontovas and Relling, which left the defence hopelessly young and battered – Naess strangely featuring as central defender. But if we’re brutally honest, we just recognize that the home team dominated the game with frivolous and positive football. If it weren’t for Erbald Saldlund, The Core would have lead already in the opening quarter but both on a free kick and a one-on-one situation, he kept his nerves and reflexes in the right spot, saving Bengtsmark IF of troubles early on. However, one man alone can’t save a team and ten minutes before the break, Bjorn Bjornstein saw his efforts rewarded with a marvellous goal – a screamer disappearing in the top corner. After the break, Bengtsmark IF did more effort to alter the balance of the game and if Tullio Schi would have placed his shot from twenty yards out on the other side of the post, The Core probably would have lost their momentum. But in the counterattack, Bjornstein got the better of Saldlund for the second time and what followed were twenty-five long, nervous minutes in which a third and decisive goal never was too far away. The superior experience of Bengtsmark kept them on board for the second round, but it had been too close for comfort.

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March 20 – Saturday

Top Division
Match Day Two

Blau-Weiss Pallstadt 0–1 Garbarnia Hoyersko
Welanduz Vadshult 0–1 Pajukas Sport
Thor Rellhovn 3–2 Jottnar Kallsmudden
Tjelberg Forening 3–2 Sparta Torspeda

With the first games behind them, one by one the teams started to pick up the pace of the new season. One side that hadn’t missed their start certainly was Garbarnia Hoyersko. Trying to shake off their aura of unattractive side, the Tanners travelled back to Unter dem Linden only seven days after the last clash with Blau-Weiss. The only representative of the island Serkau seemed much better prepared and the defence had little trouble to keep David The Heroic and Duco Dalmshelf from scoring, with a little thank you to a strong Ulle Seber. Seconds after the break, they even took the lead when Gruzek cleverly intercepted a pass of Maurer to Wladecki, it was Zigmund Kaczor who placed the ball against the net. Blau-Weiss tried to respond through Dalmshelf, but Seber was in an inspired form. Picking up points against Viztourzys apparently worked inspiring for Pajukas as well. On the field of Welanduz Vadshult, they easily dominated the home side. Istvan Losokov had his best game in quite some time and directed the play, but the post, a good Widforss and a hesitating Aatos Sihvola prevented a much higher score than nil against one for the Boys in Green. Eventually, it took them nearly seventy minutes to break through the wall, Felixian Jonas Anselm was the man who broke the deadlock with a smart ball through a forest of legs. In the last few minutes, Vadshult did a humble attempt to fight back but didn’t get nearer than a wide shot from Hammargren.
Blau-Weiss against Garbarnia wasn’t the only rematch of the League Cup one week earlier, the Ravnarian derby between Thor and Jottnar saw a second edition as well. The Giants hadn’t won so far this season and with a difficult confrontation against Apoxian Urbanista around the corner, they were anxious for a confidence booster. Manager Freddi Ulvan had clearly urged his troops to try and make an early goal and after two or three good saves by Valadius, they got what they came for when Niceforski opened the score. Against other opponents, one would write down the three points already for the orange-and-blue, but Thor showed once again that they had no fear to tread in the Top Division and managed to raise the Jottnar opener with two marvellous goals: a long shot from Dalby and a clever header by Paulas. Slightly astonished, Jottnar did attempts to fight back, but a couter finished off by man of the match Arnold Rootare sealed the deal, despite a late goal of Venclova. That other team with orange outfits was evenly unsuccessful. The scoreline might hint at a tense game, but Sparta Torspeda never stood a real chance against a compact Tjelberg at their best. Henrik Ostergaard had a blast, he could score twice. The only minor point of hope for Torspeda came from Emmanuel Moga, who once again started on the bench but showed in his fifteen minutes of gameplay more than his entire team. A long dribble, swooping past two defenders of Forening brought him alone in front of goal, his assist with the heel to Daukas - scoring his first goal in over twenty-one months - will make the reviews at the end of the year.

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March 21 – Sunday

Top Division
Match Day Two

Seura Pohkakunti 2–2 Bengtsmark IF
Slask Pruzniwczo 2–5 Viztourzys Kolektyvinis

The two major favourites from the title had to make a seemingly easy trip on this sunny Sunday afternoon, with already a chance for Bengtsmark IF to take the lead if they did better than Slask. Even more reason for contentment amongst the Bengtsmark fans as they saw their brand-new central defender make his first appearance. Polarian Steinar Niemela would be the man to fill the hole created after Englunds departure. The youngster, only 21 of age, comes from Franz Josef Young Boys, the number nine of the last Divisjon One. A more than interesting name, to say the least, especially considering his potential. Some fans, however, pointed to the youth of the backline where Antanas Mamontovas would have to transform himself into a defensive leader now. A process that didn’t went as smooth as hoped for and Seura Pohkakunti didn’t hesitate to make use of that. Only three minutes in, Risto Pajari had slipped through the defence, placing the ball behind Saldlund. Bengtsmark did a courageous attempt to fight back and their efforts were rewarded on a free kick of Zwangzugian pivot Tullio Schi. But Seura got in front again, this time through Kuusi and eventually, Bengtsmark IF was glad to go home with a point after a goal from Lindelof surrounded by the smell of offside.
In the first half, Viztourzys had similar trouble against Slask Pruzniwczo. With one eye on the confrontation against Daineri Minigoleada, coach Edgaras Zarnevidis had left Lammerschon and Hostmann on the bench, but how hard Matias Delafuente tried, he did not get the necessary support. So it was Slask, not afraid of going their chance, that opened the story, Vincas Norkus made his first one in the atrocious fluorescent shirt. One goal behind, Viztourzys reformed the line-up in an experimental 3-4-3 with a lot of stamina in their midfield pushers Zemaitis, Lammerschon and Feliks-Oskar Pfyffydghoerraks. And it was ‘Foskar’ who finally showed how he had seduced the Viztourzys board - although the purring might have helped -. First there was a magnificent goal, then he gave a grand assist on Ptak and he topped it off with a screamer on goal which burned the hands of Bogusz, which allowed Delafuente the push the ball over the line. Three goals in fourteen minutes, Slask was knocked against the canvas and Viztourzys continued to perform. A multitude of chances followed and it was almost a miracle that only a header from Hostmann and a volley from Delafuente found the back of the net. Somewhere in the process, Cyril Schulewski scored on the counterattack but that was a bandage on a wooden leg. Nothing to do about Viztourzys today that rejoins Bengtsmark, Rellhovn, Tjelberg and Hoyersko in the lead, with four points out of two matches, a good preparation for their game in the Champions’ Cup.

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March 23 – Tuesday

Series B Champions’ Cup
Third Preliminary Round (first leg)

Thor Rellhovn (BYN) - Manehattan Manticores (EQS) 1-0
Dzyes Riotte (PDY) - Tillsamman Stensund (BYN) 2-6
Linnameeskond Harseni (BYN) - Arrowsmith (EUR) 1-1

The Manehattan Manticores might only have made their spot into the SBCC with a comparatively poor seventh spot in the Second Division of the United Hoofball League, the Manticores did show in the previous round against Havrington that they are a capable side. No wonder that Rellhovn, that had twirled and danced through the opening games of their season, struggled to get hold of the third team of Manehattan - behind the better known Dragons and City HC. The result was tense midfield play with a lack of valuable chances on goal. Only in the second half, the goalies really had to step up. Valadius had a fine reflex in store when Farsight appeared in front of him and Thomas Hovbjard came close to opening the score at the other end of the pitch if it weren’t for a defenders hoof pinching the ball in corner. Supported by an enthused crowd, Thor Rellhovn started to take over the initiative in the last fifteen minutes and with result. Ramunas Paulas hit the crossbar, but Arnold Rootare did score with only six minutes left. However, the only assurance a tight victory gives is a difficult game on Derby Field in seven days. “We’ll need that away goal,” a lucid Rootare realised, “and judging from what they’ve shown us today, this won’t be an easy task.”

Tillsamman Stensund faced a side that had been the highest tier of their domestic pyramid only two seasons ago. Dzyes Riotte - Dzias Riot in the old Paradystopian spelling - had waded through two rounds as well, in which they had eliminated Rejistani Sanikali Xalki and FC Mineurs from Nova Anglicana. In the far past, when Paradystopia just broke into the world of international club football, Riot had been a respectable subtopper, but they slowly fell back. Not a lot to see of that malaise in the opening minutes, Ijn Fwakkatakkatta immediately opened the score before Ingesson knew what was happening. But Tilsamman quickly fought back and Fiersten knocked in the equaliser. Before half-time, both sides had made one more. Sagelund brought the Buyanese side in front, but Horros had a sweet screamer in store. Things only went downhill for the home team after fifty-five minutes, when Opi Madnago was presented a red card. Jorg Bagelin scored from the subsequent free kick, Dzyes panicked and within six minutes, Bramlinger and Fiersten had augmented the score. The 2-6 from Bagelin in the extra time only made it more painful for a confused home team that ended the game with nine.

The Alalla Ampujat had filled up to welcome the Euran visitors of Arrowsmith. One who has worked up the guts might say that they’re a forgone glory and more steadfast supporters will recall the days when they appeared in the highest tier, watching Craig Sinclair set his first steps in professional football. However, since the last relegation in 2012, Arrowsmith evolved into a mid-table Silver League side. Missing out on promotion by one lousy point might have gotten them pretty bummed, but the depression certainly hadn’t set in yet. The Eurans dominated the opening half against an inept Linnameeskond, that clearly missed Pekka Kurilinen to instigate some action on the wing. All in all, they were lucky it took Arrowsmith over seventy minutes to get one past Finn Ralaanen, who once again played at true international level. One goal down, Harseni had to try something and with three attackers between the lines, they did create some danger. A fluke shot from Steffen Erku even hit the net, so they will travel to Eura with the score tied.

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March 24 – Wednesday

Champions’ Cup
Third Preliminary Round (first leg)

Minigoleada (DAI) - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (BYN) 1-2
Jottnar Kallsmudden (BYN) - Urbanista (APX) 2-1

For Viztourzys, the international season started with a visit to the oddly star-shaped stadium of the last victor of the Daineri Super League. In time, Minigoleada has grown into some sort of a household name in UICA campaigns, as can be underlined by their spot in the play-off round of last year’s Globe Cup. The Green Stars evidently enter this campaign with one clearly outlined ambition: making it to the group phase this time around. The Gigempat was loaded for the visit of Viztourzys, that was at their best for the first time this year. “We’re not going to go there just to secure a draw,” manager Zarnevidis mentioned before the game and the Red Machine lived up to that promise. Goalie and captain Germânia was tested by both Hostmann and Delafuente in the very first minutes of the game and the national keeper of Dainer showed why the Golden Glove belonged to him last year around. When over their first surprise, Minigoleada slowly pushed upfield, but Schmidt had a perfect reaction in store when Monguyasha lashed for goal. The game went nicely back and forth now, both Blavatsky and Lammerschon had the opener on their foot. Deep in the first half, it were eventually the Green Stars that broke the deadlock. Sunrisian international Anthony Hawk initiated a fine combination between Amertestu and Monguyasha and it was the latter who scored from a sharp angle. An excellent opener for Minigoleada but it remained everyone’s game in the second half. The Red Machine came out of the dressing room with much power and immediately got the equaliser past Germânia when Hostmann found his way through the offside trap. This ignited fifteen minutes of high-paced games but Schmidt nor Germânia seemed to be beaten. When it appeared that both teams were accepting the result, Matias Delafuente had a bright revelation. Finally escaping Damien and Kantemir, he set up a doublepass with Ptak, moved past Metaxas and silenced the Gigempat. The great result, however, earned a dark edge when Bronius Bartkus tore his ankle in an innocent duel with Magnus. It was clear at once that he wouldn’t take the field in months to come. “Losing your captain,” Zarnevidis spoke, “makes this a Pyrrhus victory. I’ll be honest, that makes it difficult to rejoice despite our strong performance.”

Any Apoxian side presents great difficulties and that certainly goes for former CEdC winners Urbanista. The side lead by former international Olim Benzari might not have added too many players to their side apart from Robbie Faulkner, the Euran central defender, but their third spot in what is rightly recognised as the toughest competition in Esportiva demonstrates the capacities of this side. For Kallsmudden, it was immediately clear that only the best of their performances would suffice against them as they hadn’t exactly excelled so far. For the young squad, it could be a difficult test to open their UICA season. To anticipate the dangerous Elvis Sandbottom, coach Freddi Ulvan had opted to drop an additional central defender on the team but even then the Paradystopian wonderboy was the linchpin of every attack. Luckily for the Giants, Andreas Remer was in great form and Kirk nor Sandbottom managed to outsmart him. When through the first storm, it was the time of the home team. Supported by a sold-out Vingardarena, they raised the pressure on Anaru the Bold and Faulkner. Especially Sam Herbjornsrud, who hadn’t convinced us so far, had a very respectable game and it was him who presented the opening goal to Camden Stacks. As Herbjornsrud headed the ball his way, Stacks darted past Hatem and finished it off with a little help from the post. Urbanista was startled a little but their organisation kept them on board till the break. However, the atmosphere on Jottnar was great and with the same spirit, they continued to give the ball to Urbanista whilst dominating the more relevant statistics. A corner kick from Lutvhyk Meodu escaped the hands from Lockwood and Klaus Niederkirchner was very attentive, the first goal from this man who spend his time in the second division only four months ago. Realising that a two-nil would lead to a very difficult game on Lime Ground, Benzari pushed his man forwards. Taking an invisible Niceforski off for Kluwshavl, Jottnar altered into a double wall but who else than Elvis Sandbottom managed to pierce it once. With a smart move, he surpassed Niederkirchner and saved the chances of Urbanista. “That goal was quite a downer,” Konarski realised, “but we’ve beaten them once, we can do it once more.”

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March 25 – Thursday

Globe Cup
Third Preliminary Round (first leg)

Tjelberg Forening (BYN)–Old Haven (ICM) 2-0
Blau-Weiss Pallstadt (BYN)–North Bury (HUT) 3-2

Surfing on their victorious vibe, Tjelberg Forening could see through the first leg of the third round at home, with Old Haven visiting Den Dam. This side made a return to the international scene as the Darius Corporation saw an interesting financial opportunity in re-establishing a domestic competition in The Icemark after a successful World Cup run by the frosty nation. Old Haven immediately was back on track with a second spot behind local powerhouse Frostmarris and victories over Madruguinha Buneco Clube and Bridge City showed that they hadn’t stood still in their off-period. Nonetheless it was Tjelberg that started off best, missing only Sparre of their regular squad. His replacement, the young Stig Villehammer, showed why he was added to the team with a tight crosspass that was only missed by an inch by Kjetil Harde. It was stay of execution for Halvor Sigurdson, the international on goal for Old Haven, as only three minutes later Harde kept good vision and presented a goal for Henrik Ostergaard in wrapping paper. It didn’t hamper Old Haven to play along pretty well, possession was evenly split but one goal up, Tjelberg had the ability to sit it out till the visitors made a costly mistake. That came ten minutes after the break, when Jonas Englund cleverly intercepted a pass on the left wing. He immediately launched Sil Moen and the captain managed to outrun his direct opponent whilst keeping an open view. Harde was spotted unmarked in front of goal and the youngster left Sigurdson without a response for the second time. Old Haven had one major chance to save the odds for the return match, but Palle Angst had a cat-like reflex on a short-distance shot.

Blau-Weiss met another team that had gone through quite some rounds as well. North Bury, the latest champion of the resurrected league of Hutt River, might have been eliminated in the opening round of the Champions’ Cup, they made their way past Beaverrivers Salvan City and – more surprisingly – Arcticala Inlet from Vilita. Especially the enthusiast way they got rid of the side from the Stellar Division was a promising sign and Unter Dem Linden quickly discovered that these weren’t flukes. The clear title, the first one in their history, should have hinted to that. Early on already, Erhardt had to be attentive at a shot from Erich Hall and Carl Lawlor only missed by a few inches. It wasn’t but halfway the first half that Blau-Weiss reached Richard Wijnter for the first time, but the young goalie had little trouble with the shot from Kluszak. Despite tense football, we seemed to go back into the dressing room without goals but a pinch of luck brought Blau-Weiss in front. A pass from Jamie Steel bounced off the goalie, David the Heroic was quick on the ball and his chip surprised Wijnter. If North Bury had needed extra encouragement for some reason, they had enough inspiration for a second half full of fireworks now. Early on, Heffernan brought things back level but he saw his goal wiped out by a goal on corner from Bartosz Wladecki, his first one in the blue-and-white shirt. A few minutes before the final whistle, Pallstadt even scored a third one with Kauppi on the cannon but the team from Hutt River refused to lay down. And with result, as key player Max Sainsbury buried one for North Bury. With 3-2, all was still to play for Marko Maurer realised. “We’ve seen here that any complacency will cost us,” the Mytanar agreed, “it’s still fifty-fifty.”

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March 27 – Saturday

Top Division
Match Day Three

Bengtsmark IF 4–0 Thor Rellhovn
Pajukas Sport 0–0 Seura Pohkakunti
Viztourzys Kolektyvinis 1–1 Welanduz Vadshult
Garbarnia Hoyersko 0–4 Slask Pruzniwczo

The third gathering of the greatest of the Buyanese football pyramid saw two painful hammerings and a similar amount of close encounters. In the afternoon, it was Bengtsmark IF that opened up the debate and that against a Thor that seemed to be still tired from their SBCC encounter. The Yellows immediately had the packed stadium behind them when Tullio Schi launched Sunrisian topscorer Felipe Maniche into the back of the defence. Somehow, he found some space between the legs of Valadius and in two minutes, Bengtsmark had the lead. The home team continued to sweep Rellhovn off their feet, Yakobe Zunzarren quickly doubled up. While Saldlund was taking a nap, Bengtsmark saw another wave of attacks end with a corner kick, where Mamontovas made the net tremble for the third time in the first quarter. With a decisive score on the board, Bengtsmark released their foot of the gas but Rellhovn remained motionless. Pivot Rootare was completely covered by a strong Harald Naess and the sturdy wingers never came near the box. A late goal by youngster Ake Ljung underlined what all knew already, Bengtsmark is growing into top form.
Another team that came home with the best of feelings was Slask Pruzniwczo, although they should send a thank you card to referee Sten Valslinger. After only six minutes, he gave a red card to Pierczo Szylarsz for a harsh yet fair tackle on Razevli, acquiring the hate of the Aleja Lipowa. The Tanners were baffled and before they could reorganise, Razevli and Poluceck had made the nets tremble. Slowly, Garbarnia recovered of their loss and if it weren’t for Bogusz – shaking of a lesser performance one week ago – they could have gotten the important 1-2 when Zooey Stown brought out the hammer from outside the box. But Bogusz not only saved it, he immediately launched Marcos Pérez on the wing, who provided the assist for Poluceck. Almost the end of the spectacle, brand-new defender Boeloe de Boeloe placed a post-scriptum with a successful header. “We’re rigged,” the always-calm Libanovich fulminated, “this is just impossible.” Razevli acknowledged that a red card had been a bit harsh, but placed the performance of Slask in bold: “We kept on playing with good possession, good pressure. That cost them more than that card.”

With their important victory against Minigoleada in mind, Viztourzys envisaged little trouble to set aside Welanduz Vadshult – even with local monument Bartkus poorly replaced -, but the underdog clearly refused to follow those plans. With a defensive set-up they tried to keep Matias Delafuente at a leash and although the Farf tried to escape with much vigour from said cage, the visitors managed to keep the nil in the opening of the game. Even more, they managed to collect the better of chances but Manuel Schmidt initially stood steady. The former Rüntenbacher did show he was having a good start of the season if it weren’t for a minor moment of distraction. Panicking, Edvald Castberg booted the ball upfield. Schmidt came out of goal too late, seemed nonetheless to reach the ball quicker than Kroempf but swayed his leg over the leather. Erwin Kroempf received an open route to goal and did what any true attacker would do: score. One down, the Red Machine had to push for goal but didn’t profit on their siege but in the seventy-ninth minute, when a shot from Kairys initiated a pinball situation in which Jochen Ptak had the last word. Still, lost points for Viztourzys in the Nova Pylimasstadionas, but Zarnevidis stayed calm. “It you stay with your whole team behind the ball and hope for a lucky moment, that’s just cowardice. We could blame Schmidt, but you lose together as well.”
Last but not least, the White Kids visited the Bokstasstadion. Both sides had picked up a good vibe in the last few games and all seemed set up for a tense encounter. Unfortunately, nothing of that kind appeared on the pitch. Lots of midfield football, an abundance of faults and a lack of opportunities or combinations. Only Sigi Prinsen got the hands together once when he dribbled past Saari and Kohlemainen, but his shot ended at the wrong side of the post. After the break things only get moderately better, Valdas Tomascevicius attempted to let his team play higher but it wasn’t before he brought in Linas Martas as second striker that Seura got in trouble. But neither Martas or Sihvola was punishing in front of goal, so Pohkakunti could drift to a fourth game without a loss – a nice streak for an underdog where the top striker Pajari still isn’t at his best. Captain Amundsen tried to console the Pajukas fans, “of course we’re not at our best level yet, but I think our curve is still on the way up. Our defence already is where it’s at, we just need to feel one another better in front of goal.”

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March 28 – Sunday

Top Division
Match Day Three

Sparta Torspeda 2–2 Blau-Weiss Pallstadt
Jottnar Kallsmudden 2–0 Tjelberg Forening

The headliner of Sunday afternoon football was evidently the Ravnarian clash between last year’s vice-champion Jottnar Kallsmudden and their bitter rivals. With seven official fixtures and nil losses behind them, Tjelberg Forening pretty much looked like the team in form while Jottnar had so far picked up one measly point in the competition. However, the unexpected yet delightful success against Urbanista in the Champions’ Cup had spurred the enthusiasm of the home team and the Giants immediately chose for attack as soon as the referee blew the first whistle. If it weren’t for an attentive Palle Angst, Arkadiusz Niceforski would have opened the scoreline in the opening minute. However, due to a miscommunication between Eskildsen and Englund, he received a second chance and this time he did not hesitate. A clever pitch in the furthest corner tore up the clean sheet. The away fans had hoped that this would be a kick in the rear for Tjelberg, but they were incomparable with their previous stints. Jottnar kept on dominating, but Venclova nor Stacks managed to put their shot between the posts. Coming out of the dressing room, Tjelberg seemed to have caught a new wind. Reforming their line-up in some sort of 4-1-3-2, the lost ball on midfield often was theirs and Jottnar captain Slawko Konarski saw himself held up by superior manpower. However, it wasn’t to be for Tjelberg today: Berg couldn’t put it on target, a header from Harde was stopped by Giertych and a shot from Moen flew over the crossbar. Taking risks, they became vulnerable for the counterattack and it was here that Jottnar’s Paradystopian connection showed his value. Luthvyk Meodu ran past Refshauge and Eskildsen and provided a perfect assist for a delighted Sam Herbjornsrud. “Scoring is always magnificent,” the youngster grinned, “but against Tjelberg is always a tad more marvellous.” Forening defender Refshauge remained calm, “that loss would come someday, it was inevitable. I think our second half showed that this is just a bump in the road.”

Facing rioting fans in the Pergale Stadionas, Tomas Sakalauskas finally placed Emmanuel Moga at the kick-off. Although some still looked with a weary smile to his tendency to choose a dribble over a pass when the latter was more opportune, none could deny that the Nova Anglican was the sensation of the year at the banks of the Mirgulas River. The supporters were at his side at least, despite the hefty sum paid to Vinovium United and the new favourite of the crowd showed why in the opening minutes against Blau-Weiss. He paced past Wladecki, set up a doublepass with Pentanen and placed the ball in the top corner. The visitors, however, refused to do less and it was of course Piotr Kluszak who responded with a lovely action through the heart of the opponent but a last-second tackle by Juan Matias Somoza prevented the equaliser. It was only a matter of delay, as Kauppi and Kluszak set up something marvellous on the right side of the pitch. Tomas Karosas saw no other option but to trip Seppo Kauppi, resulting in a yellow card and the ball on the spot. From eleven yards out, there was no stopping David the Heroic who is one of the strongholds in Pallstadts opening weeks of the season. The draw would remain on the board till the referee ended the exciting first half, despite a fine opportunity for Ricardas Vazinskas. After the tea, more of the same was delivered by the twenty-two actors. A clever through ball was picked up by Vincas Daukas, he still found Jan Erhardt in his way but Juha Pentanen did not hesitate. The Mytanar goalgetter might look at the disturbances in his home country with pain in his heart, it doesn’t stop him to find the net in the Top Division. But Blau-Weiss showed that they are a team with quite some backbone, this time the vital pass came from Riesling and it was Duco Dalmshelf who finally showed why the manager kept his trust in him. One touch for the control, one touch for the screamer and Sakalauskas had no response. As a result, both teams parted with a single point and both deserved more. Nonetheless, neither sets a step in the good direction with this result, only Welanduz scrounged less than their two points. At the other side of the table, Bengtsmark IF was the sole leader ahead of Slask and Viztourzys. “It’s one of those games that could have gone both ways,” Erhardt realised, “so I’m rather satisfied with the performance than disappointed that we couldn’t get that first league win of the season.”

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March 30 – Tuesday

Series B Champions’ Cup
Third Preliminary Round (second leg)

Tilsamman Stensund (BYN) - Dzyes Riotte (PDT) 2-1
Manehattan Manticores (EQS) - Thor Rellhovn (BYN) 0-1
Arrowsmith (EUR) - Linnameeskond Harseni (BYN) 3-1

With the thorough trashing by Bengtsmark IF in mind, none of the fans of Thor Rellhovn was genuinely looking forward to the second duel with the Manticores. To add to the misery, Andreas Ohlin was missing with a minor injury, the latest acquisition of Bengtsmark IF had been the backbone of last year’s champion of the Second Division. For Thor, it would be a matter to hold on in the Manehattan Industrial Park. The Equestrian opponent did attempt to overwhelm Thor in the opening minutes, not in the least through Sandstorm. But that storm did die down rather quick and from that point onwards, Thor could relatively easily control the danger. Even more, they got themselves in front with a marvellous screamer by Sigmund Dalby. It wasn’t but in the last fifteen minutes that the Manticores started to besiege the goal of Valadius, but some good reflexes and an attentive Thorkildsen, who wiped a ball from the line, ensured a next round for Thor. With Westfieldian Filites Madrid, a new dangerous side was lined up. “Not our best game,” Dalby remained honest, “but fortunately for us, not theirs either. Once we’ve gotten through those first fifteen minutes, we knew it was coming within reach.”

With no less than six goals scored in Paradystopia, Tilsamman could already afford to field a few of their bench players and it was quickly visible that Dzyes hadn’t opted for their strongest line-up either. Nonetheless, the spectators were offered a fine game with opportunities at both sides of the pitch. Riotte opened the scoreline when reserve goalie Matti Guninen completely mistimed his save on a crosspass from Khalvhin Horros. Riotte grew into the match and if Tolliko’tollik had been a little more coldblooded in front of goal, they might have started a miracle. But only six minutes later, Jorg Bagelin got his head against a long pass from Ravlund and the game was played. Fortunately for the fans, both sides tried to add one to their tally till the very last minute but only Stensund managed to do so when Lewi Fiersten, fresh off the bench, scored from an assisting pass by the sixteen-year old Jannick Brems. It only underlined what the fans already knew, Tilsamman Stensund would reach the play-off round, where Seansburgh Cougars will await them, a hash task. “The further you get,” Sven Bramlinger noted, “the tougher it gets but Seansburgh is no gift, that’s for sure.”

Last but not least, Linnameeskond Harseni made the trip to Eura for an encounter with Arrowsmith. It would be a long and disappointing affair for the Harseni side, that never really appeared to trouble the home team. Fishery Hill Stadium was packed as in the older days and against that wall of sound the poor knees of the Linnameeskond went wobbly. Only goalkeeper Finn Ralaanen managed to hold up the expected level at this stage of the competition, but even he could not prevent that Arrowsmith lead two against nil after twenty minutes. From that point onwards, the cameras could spend their time zooming in on painted supporters and loveable lasses in the audience as it become a duel between one side that couldn’t and one side that didn’t really need to. The third goal for the Euran hosts was only a minor interruption in one long yawn and when Jussi Spatali got a consolation goal, quite some fans were already celebrating the qualification of Arrowsmith in the nearest pub. “It had to end at some point,” Ralaanen knew, “and this was just one gear too fast for us. But we’ve gotten four educating matches and I hope we can take them with us to the competition.”

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March 31 – Wednesday

Champions’ Cup
Third Preliminary Round (second leg)

Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (BYN) - Minigoleada (DAI) 3-1
Urbanista (APX) - Jottnar Kallsmudden (BYN) 0-1

After their remarkable victory in the Gigempat, Viztourzys did encounter quite some setbacks. First of all, there was the report of the doctors who confirmed what already was feared. Bronius Bartkus’ ankle was – as was stated in the official report – pretty fucked up and he would have to be off the field for over six months. Secondly, there was the moderate performance against Welanduz Vadshult, a draw against one of the relegation candidates never is a fine warm-up for an all-important duel. The Red Machine saw with fear to the arrival of Minigoleada, but the fans could warm them at a surprise addition to the team. With Bartkus in the stands and only youngsters on the bench, the management had scrounged the international market with great speed. With the deadline coming closer, they eventually managed to sign Alexis Garcia on loan for one season. The Felixian international had left Taeshani Fadron Flight behind him and was much wanted on the market – with some rumours linking him to Bengtsmark IF – but it was Apoxian Endeavour FC that picked him up. However, both parties saw an interesting opportunity in a loan so Garcia immediately saw his debut in the third round of the Champions’ Cup.
It would be an interesting test to see how the partnership with Firecrest would work out in the heart of the defence but that immediately started with a false note. Monguyasha intercepted a poor pass of the Crystal Pony and Manuel Schmidt saw the ball hit his net. It did steer up the atmosphere in Novas Pylimas and the team awoke with them. At once, the Kolektyvinis went for the attack and the pressure rose, not in the least on the Daineri defending midfield Damien who struggled to keep Delafuente from being dangerous. The Farf number ten of the Buyanese champion did create a few chances before half-time but both Jochen Ptak and Stefan Hostmann couldn’t score. Nonetheless, one shouldn’t forget that it was Minigoleada that still needed an extra goal and so Viztourzys initiated the second half to focus on counterattacking. Amertestu almost got the better of Schmidt but Garcia showed his value with a last-minute tackle. Three minutes later, Viztourzys scored the one-one, Stefan Hostmann was the right man on the right place. For the Green Stars, there was no other option left but attacking but this left the road wide open for Viztourzys. Both Jochen Ptak and Kazimieras Zemaitis added their name to the list of scorers and qualification was a fact. “I’m not too satisfied,” Zarnevidis remained humble, “but we could profit from our great first game.”

Jottnar report in the next post due to character limit issues.