Baptism of Fire 45 Rosters/RP/Scores Thread (IC)

by **West Angola** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 8:46 am

Phillip Garren was absolutely stuffed. Following their victory the team had gone out for a celebratory dinner (alcohol-free of course- no hangovers), and Garren had taken an early leave to get a bit more sleep. Truthfully, he had never liked being around people, that's why he played keeper, the only thing that got close to him was the ball. Hands in his pockets, he began the walk back to the hotel. Stopping at the traffic intersection, he waited for the light to change. When it turned red, he stepped off the sidewalk and began to cross the street. He was about halfway across when he was suddenly bathed in light. Turning in surprise, he found himself staring into the headlights of a rapidly oncoming car. Diving out of the way, He felt an incredible pain in his leg, then his head met the pavement, and it all went dark...

About me · by **Luziyca** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 9:19 am

Bethlehem Times

The Loss, 0-2 against Yesopalitha

Courtesy of Luziycan News 24

Today, in the Baptism of Fire, the Luziycan National Team, unfortunately lost, 0-2. They tried their best to win, but since this was our very first international game since Feb. 19, 1991, when we played against the DPR of Luziyca's National Team in the Auferstanden Cup, now obsolete. We did extremely well, despite our losses. Our defense was strong, but the offense, was not. In the end, all was well. However, the next team we play will hopefully not be socialist, or communists, because commies and socialists always dope. Proof? Take a look at (RL) East Germany's sporting program, which they CONSTANTLY doped and were not caught until the 1990s. Many now suffer health problems from the doping. If it is free, we will easily defeat them. Our coach, Nicolae Ceausescu has commented, "The Luziycans are doing well, despite their loss against the Yesopalithans. We are hoping that we will easily beat the next team."

While we wonder whether Yesopalitha and Luziyca will ever meet once more, we also hope that the Lord will not ruin our goals and instead let us win. It has been a tough day but we will attempt to win once more tomorrow. The matches for the Baptism of Fire are very important, so that we will have a higher chance of entering the World Cup. If we win the BoF, and/or the World Cup, Luziyca will truly be proven to a beacon of freedom, the right hand man of Hippostania. This event and many others is to prove that we are not playing just for fun, no, we are playing to spread liberty and democracy throughout the sporting world. To quote Huswa Varanken:

"Spread liberty, democracy and Christianity, by all means, ranging from violence, to peace, economically, and by competing against other nations."

The very last part, many of us believe, are to compete in the sporting world. We may have won the Auferstanden Cup, all of the matches, from 1981 to 1991, when it ceased due to the war, as well as the 1996 match, in which the southern team had won, but we do not know whether the sporting world is truly free. If there is a beacon in the sporting world, it is to be Luziyca. May we win the Baptism of Fire. (more on page G5)

by **19th Century Beards** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 10:26 am

Beards joint 2nd in group after draw

19th Century Beards' national football team are joint second in Group I after a 1-1 draw with Kerblaekistan at Sahatsakbasoa, Oyardo in Astograth. Our goal was scored by Mindougas Gimbiris while Kerblaekistan's was scored by their striker, who wished to remain anonymous. We scored our first and only goal of the match, Mindougas Gimbiris heading in to the net from 45 metres. Kerblaekistan scored near full time, a striker of theirs scoring from 12 metres.

by **United Kingdom of the Southwest** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 11:01 am

*Travel magazine article*

by Maxwell Honda

Just recently I visited the United Kingdom of the Southwest, a budding young nation. It was a very clean country, nice people and great food. I visited the monument of The Royal Knights of the Round Table, found in District Square. This was placed there to commemorate the six founders of the Royal Round Table, and ultimately, the nation itself.
It was here were a large group was gathered. The group consisted of large, ruddy-faced men, and they were raving about the Baptism of Fire 45. The United Kingdom of the Southwest is currently running in the competition, but other than that I didn't know much about soccer.
Their leader, a huge, muscular man named Rob Wallace came up to me and aked how much I loved the UKS soccer team. Smelling the beer on his breath, I politely stated that I didn't follow soccer at all. I also told them I wasn't even from this country. They got upset with me and started to gather around. Rob looked at me funny and said that if I didn't sing the entire UKS soccer anthem at that spot he would rip my mouth out of my head and use it as a hood ornament. I then proceeded to tell them that I really didn't give a crap about the Baptism of Fire and he could step back to let me through.
Well, after that they didn't step back and let me through, rather they picked me up and used me as a soccer ball right on the Square. It was such a fun game for them, other people joined in, including the local police, who, after five hours, picked me up, put me in a UKS Stallions t-shirt, and dropped me into the nearest hospital.
In short, when visiting the United Kindom of the Southwest, be sure to see all the monuments. Unless you carry pepper spray or maybe a grenade launcher, don't tick off the soccer hooligans. Ever. Even if you don't follow soccer.

by **Zona Azul** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 1:33 pm

An unorganized bedroom.

And when we say unorganized, we really mean it. A small screen surrounded by the remains of junk food containers and some souvenirs coming from several locations. The bed wasn't even visible below dirty clothes and books, several of them with stamps written "classified". Suddenly, a beep, and the screen turns red, warning the room's owner to receive the message. It really didn't look like somewhere in this planed.

In fact, it wasn't. Not in any planet you may be on... it is a capsule floating on space.

Art Deckmib finally gets up from below the books, showing that he was sleeping. He wasn't taking the identity of anyone, appearing in his natural form. A beige mass of unknown substance with two arms that don't have the same size. With one of them, he hits a button close to the screen, and another figure appears: a huge head, with two big horns on each side and a mouth full of small tentacles. It is his boss.

"Hello, agent Deckmib. Hope I didn't disturb you in your sleep."

"You know you have... anything for me, or was it some kind of prank?"

The man on the screen is the director of the Total Police, Emir Waolloch. A ruthless former agent, who got promoted after killing several dictators, mad criminals, people with betting debts and others who threw trash on the streets. His relationship with Art is the worst possible, with the two always expecting that the worst could happen to the other. But, since the two are the most efficient members of the law enforcement group, they have to cooperate. But, just to annoy his boss, Deckmib changes his appearance to the same of Waolloch... he is a free-changing doppelganger, able to completely impersonate someone as soon as he sees him or her. This is one of his main abilities as an agent, and a talent that infuriates the boss, who sees it as a menace to his power.

"Stop imitating me, Deckmib, we have important issues to handle."

"To where you will send me now, boss?"

"Check this report... it comes from a very distant place in the universe, but it interests us. It is a Zona Azul announcement, regarding its participation in a football tournament."

And so Deckmib received the roster of Zona Azul in the Baptism of Fire.

"What is so interesting about this, boss?"

"Check the players... they are paying an enormous salary in order to have Hromdzitklecvau in the squad... they also have Eçañas, do you remember her? That is very expensive, where all this money comes from? They claim to have found funding, but there are few people in the same squad which have paid to be included in the squad... something doesn't fit."

"So you think this is the perfect opportunity for us to get them?"

Zona Azul's chain of spaceports always were a target for the Total Police, who wanted to accuse them of tax evasion. Although their ports are located in their own zones, they have to follow interuniversal laws that demand some payments, which Waolloch is sure they do not. But this isn't really a justice issue, it is an economical one... after all, these payments go directly to the Total Police, so not paying them is stealing from the group.

"Yes, Deckmib... if we can discover how exactly they are paying these superstars, we can finally reveal their dirty schemes. You should go to this place and check it out."

"Hmm... I see that they have even more interesting players in the squad. Aux Ditryx... Po'ud K-M'il... not nice people. Surely there is something it it. Leave it to me boss, I'll do it and then return to take your position in the Police."

ZONA AZUL OFFICIAL MATCH ANNOUNCEMENT

Hello to all the employees and customers of Zona Azul spaceports. We are glad to see our team participating in its first international competition, and winning its debut match. Although there was a lot of expectation regarding the performance of this new team, the players managed to work together well, but the win wasn't one easy to achieve. But this was expected. After all, this was a day of firsts. It was the first time that the whole country of Kagdazka and Pazhujebu heard the war cry of Aux Ditryx, after she ate her lunch right before the match. The horrible sound anticipated that something new was coming to the stadium. It was the first time that players like Y'Gohlrodt and Prlnin, loved by the Zona Azul fans, appeared to the citizens of the Baptism of Fire host country. The first time that Sazzavv challenged the fans by following him by eye when he flied through the stadium. The first time that, after everyone was ready, Dri Icomprile played the wonderful anthem of the Zona Azul company.

Then it was time for football. Surely the opponents got surprised when they first saw who they were facing, but they showed that they have enough talent and concentration to forget the physical characteristics of the Zona Azul players. After all, they scored first. Biafra lost the ball in the midfield and couldn't chase his opponent, Ollie Larsen, who then dribbled Varginha the Martian and sent a low shot to the goal. Surprised by this, since he is better at saving aerial balls, Y'Gohlrodt wasn't able to reach the ball in time, shocking the Zona Azul supporters. But the reaction came soon after, thanks to an excellent run from Sazzavv in the right wing. No one could match his speed, and the crossing came directly to Hromdzitklecvau's head. With all his talent, the veteran had no problems in scoring. It was a very physical match, with both teams being daring wanting to score the game. Ob had a good chance by managing to dribble two opponents, but Miller couldn't take advantage of the pass and easily lost the ball in what was the other best chance of the team in the first half.

In the second half, the team of Zona Azul returned more organized and was able to avoid the mistakes done in the first part of the match. More dangerous, they reached the offensive area many times, bringing danger to the opponents. In one opportunities, Eçañas controlled well the ball with her wheel, and made an excellent pass to Sazzavv who came flying, but lost control and was easily challenged by the defender. Close to the fifteenth minute, it was Hromdzitklecvau who once again saved the team. Receiving a pass from Prlnin, he shot from outside the area with perfection, scoring a beautiful goal. At that point, with the advantage in the match, the Telescreen sent an order for the players to defend more, avoiding the counterattack opportunities of Stockton-on-Tees which could be dangerous with William Johansen. The referee finally announced the end of the match, and the first win of Zona Azul in its history.

by **Oasirica (Ancient)** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 1:55 pm

The Ossidiacquan Museum of The Pause Time
Cultural Wing

Cabinet One

Cabinet Two

Stefano
Dearest Sister,

We did it! Have you heard? I am sure that news by telegram has reached the nation already, but I wish to tell you of how thrilled I was to see the tournament get going! Our first even football match was against Puerto Candelaria, a fine team themselves, but no match for our performance! How proud I was as I led the team out of the tunnel, and into the arena. There were posters and screens up around the stadium, featuring images from the many heroic victories won here over the years. I know our match will be of little significance to those who the stadium week in, week out, but dear sister you must understand that I am eager to ensure that our own historical exploits are recorded in some way for our future generations!

The match started, and we immediately began to control the match. Diego Mordasini and I have a good understanding in the midfield, and we were able to dictate the tempo of the game quite easily. With the opposition posing a very tight and compact formation against us, we were forced to use the wings, and before too long Benjamin Lazzaretti crossed the ball in for the purpose of attack, and Nuno was there to head it in! He ran straight to Enzo and I to celebrate, and the rest of the team joined us. With barely minutes since the restart gone, we were able to make another breakthrough, as I spotted Sebastian Cordero in space, passed the ball to him from long distance, and he turned and volleyed a most excellent shot beyond the goalkeeper. I confess to not knowing the identity of any of our opposition. They spoke a different language and had no names printed on their shirts.

Your dear Enzo was thrilled to hear of your message in your last letter, and he told me after the match that he dedicated his performance to you today. He made several key tackles, as did the swine Sbarro to pay him his dues, and although Cassiano Peralta had to make a few saves of high calibre, Enzo had a fine game. I believe you can expect a letter from him in the near future as well, dear sister!

After a break to recharge our bodies - foreign footballers seem firmly set on this idea of a half-time interval, not something we are used to, but perhaps we should introduce one into the league back home, as whatever was said to the opposition during the break certainly causing a reinvigorated reaction from them, and we had to look sharp to remain in control of the match. We did manage to score a third goal, as well, young Giuseppe Bonelli came on as a substitute for Nuno, and found himself in a position from which to execute a flamboyant overhead kick. Della Rocca reproached his moment of exhibitionism after the match, but I doubt it will discourage the young man.

Our next match is against Pelmany, who lost to the very impressive looking Überhölichschleissen, in Gelendzhik. Kagdazka is very cold, dear sister, and I cannot wait until we have to make the trip to Pazhujebu for a game, as I hear it is much warmer there.

Despite our fine win, dear sister, I am homesick for the arcades of Sant'Elia, the misty peaks of Picos Negro in the distance, and the hum of activity. Tell me tales of home. How is cousin Giuseppe? I pray for him nightly. What news of l'Hopital Centro? It can't be long until the time wall goes up now!

I remain as ever,
your Stefano

Esmeralda
Dearest Brother,

We are so proud of you and the whole team! There were celebrations into the night as telegrams reached us about your heroic victory! There is even word of a clipreel being sent by express barquentine back to us from Kagdazka so that we may enjoy moving images of you heroism at the municipal cinemas! I am not even a fan of football, but I shall endeavour to find out more, so excited am I by your exploits abroad.

I have sad news though dear brother, so brace yourself. Cousin Giuseppe is in dire straights. He has definitely caught la Plaga, and is quarantined to such an extent that none of us can see him. It is desperate indeed. The time wall is to go up in two days, so by the time your next match kicks off it should have come down and we will know if he will be able to make use of the cure. He is keeping in high spirits, so I am told, but his dear wife Julietta has also started developing some of the symptoms. It pained us to do so, but she has been sent home to her empty house, as we simply can't risk having her around. We feel frightfully bad about the whole affair, but she is most understanding, and says that if she catches la Plaga, at least she can be with cousin Giuseppe.

In lighter topics, I am blushing to think of Enzo's letter arriving any day now! Please do pass on my best wishes to him, and to the rest of the team! Good luck in your next match, too!

I must sign off for now, apologies for the shortness of this letter, but I am about to depart for an engagement with the patron of the university I shall be applying to. Mother says it is deeply important to keep in good circles, so I must spend the rest of the afternoon preparing myself. Wish me luck!

I remain as always,
your loving sister,
Esmeralda

by **Vettrera** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 2:04 pm

Analyzing Baptism of Fire Teams

http://www.bleacherz.vtr/BoF45/Astrograth-Rgn

After the first game of play there is a lot to be said, or rather very little to be said against the teams in the Astrograth Region.

Group F                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Oliveland              1   1  0  0    2   0  +2    3
2 Lizland                1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
  Vettrera               1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
4 Ancharmunn             1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0
  Ima and Eastern Mae    1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0
6 Stvoto Latoli          1   0  0  1    0   2  −2    0

Oliveland- Most likely Group F's team to watch. Although their true test will come in their match against Vettrera; I wouldn't be surprised to see them take the top spot. They may be too offensive-minded, but it's too soon to tell.

Lizland- It's hard to say anything good, or bad about this team. There is close to no information on their team available to the general populous, and they didn't have to play a hard opponent. Win or loss; they'll need to prove their worth. They are expected to lose to Archarmunn.

Vettrera- This team would be really great contenders for the cup, if they were a team that is. Vettrera needs a definitive leader. But something has to be said for a team who can fight so much after a game, yet play so much during one. Hopefully, they know what they're doing against the strong team of Oliveland.

Ancharmunn- They've fought hard so far, but came up short against Vettrera. I expect them to bounce back and take some wins, but it might not be enough to secure a spot in the next stage. They will most likely take a win against Lizland.

Ima and Eastern Mae- They haven't showcased any of their skills, which makes it hard to take them seriously. Prediction: Loss to Stvoto Latoli.

Stvoto Latoli: Stvoto Latoli is identical to Ima and Eastern Mae, but I have to give them the benefit of the doubt based on the hard competition they faced with Oliveland. Prediction: Win against Ima and Eastern Mae.

Group G                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Bruyn                  1   1  0  0    2   0  +2    3
  Ocaterra               1   1  0  0    2   0  +2    3
3 Baleyaroh              1   0  1  0    1   1   0    1
  Newland-America        1   0  1  0    1   1   0    1
5 French Scandinavia     1   0  0  1    0   2  −2    0
  Landpolis              1   0  0  1    0   2  −2    0

Bruyn- They will win this group easily. There is no available information on their competitors.

Group H                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 West Angola            1   1  0  0    5   0  +5    3
2 Azrael                 1   1  0  0    3   1  +2    3
3 Cascratia              1   1  0  0    2   1  +1    3
4 Nifferite              1   0  0  1    1   2  −1    0
5 Diol                   1   0  0  1    1   3  −2    0
6 Herenia                1   0  0  1    0   5  −5    0

Group Predictions
1 Azrael
2 West Angola
3 Cascratia
4 Nifferite
5 Herenia
6 Diol

Group I                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Politik                1   1  0  0    3   0  +3    3
2 19th Century Beards    1   0  1  0    1   1   0    1
  Kerblaekistan          1   0  1  0    1   1   0    1
4 Anglegard              1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
  PuertoRico             1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
6 Naboompu               1   0  0  1    0   3  −3    0

Group Predictions
1 Politik
2 Kerbleakistan
3 19th Century Beards
4 PuertoRico
5 Aglegard
6 Naboompu

by **West Angola** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 3:20 pm

The team was in an uproar; Peter Warren could hear them through the door. Will Danforth Jr., the backup goalie, had walked out of the restaurant just in time to see Garren get hit by the car, which had quickly sped off into the night. Danforth had rushed back inside to inform the team and call an ambulance, which had arrived within minutes and rushed Garren to the hospital. So far, the hospital was only permitting Warren to see him, leaving him to deliver the bad news to the team. Warren paused, then opened the door and walked directly into a palpable wall of questions.

Luke Parrish: “Is he okay?”
Will Danforth Jr.: “Is he gonna be able to play?”
Thomas Nasser: “Can he play again?”

Warren raised his hands to stay the tide of inquiry, “Boys, I’ve got some bad news. Garren was almost able to get out of the way of the car, but his right leg was crushed below the knee.” He looked directly at Parrish, “He’ll never play again.”

The team fell silent, Garren was a quiet fellow, but he’d endeared himself to the team with his shy yet affable nature and excellent play at keeper. The news that one so dear to the team would never play football again shocked them all. Even Danforth, who would finally get his chance to play, felt as though he’d lost his right foot too. Warren cleared his throat again, “Men, despite this depressing turn of events, we still have a game to play tonight. Garren’s in the hospital, and he’s going to need some entertainment tonight. So let’s put on a show for him, dang it! Danforth, you’re playing keeper, and I don’t want anyone to let this distract them tonight. There’s a time and a place to mourn, but I want only one thing on that pitch tonight: football. We’ll all go see Phillip as soon as they’ll allow. You men play hard, for Phillip!”

“For Phillip!”

One by one, the team filed out of the room and downstairs to where the taxis waited to take them to the stadium, but Danforth Jr. remained behind. “Coach, I don’t know if I can do this! There’s just so much pressure!” Warren put a reassuring hand on his shoulder, “You can do it, Will, and what’s more you’ve got to.” Danforth nodded solemnly and replied, “Yes sir, I’ll do my best tonight.” With that, Danforth turned and left the room, leaving Warren alone. Alone, that is, except for his thoughts. Who’d run over Garren?

by **Swalenia** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 4:20 pm

Robbie's heart was racing. He stood with his foot on the ball in the centre circle. There were thousands upon thousands of fans shouting and screaming. The Swalenian fans were in the right corner of the stadium, by the Wight goal. A great sea of red. He had never felt so proud. He felt proud to be here, proud to be wearing the dragon, the shirt.

A loud shrill of the whistle behind him, and it was off. He rolled the ball back to Rich and sprinted forward. He watched the long ball sail over his head and he ran after it, narrowly dodging a large, un-duly man with messy teeth. The ball bounced in the D and he took it past another defender, he was about to loose off a shot, but it was blocked by a defender. The ball was blasted back down the pitch. He ran back.

10 minutes later, Robbie was pinned down on the left wing. He was surrounded by two 6 and a half foot giants. He heard a shout from the centre, and looked up. Ben Summers was running into a perfect position inside the area. He put the ball onto his left foot and lifted the ball into the air. Summers gladly received it and turned a defender. It was just him and the goalie. Robbie ran into the area, but was impeded by a giant with blood on his ripped shorts. He came crashing to the ground. A questionable roar came up from around the crowd. Penalty! No whistle came. He looked up from the grass, Summers was coming out from a shooting motion. He turned his head. The ball flew over the bar. Summers held his head in his hands.

What were they saying? enquired Robbie quietly to John Richards, after returning after a attacking phase of play. He was talking about three Wight defenders, who he had outskilled previously. They were shouting in a weird language and gesticulating wildly. A whistle blew. What? He turned. The referee was walking over to the three defenders. And in turn, he gave them a yellow card each. Then Robbie walked to the side line as the Wight assistant manager was berating the 4th referee, then made a triple substitution.

28 minutes in, and Robbie walked into the D to defend a corner. It was whipped in like a rocket, and Robbie was in the perfect position to clear it, and he rose to receive it. Suddenly, his legs were taken out from under him as a Wight Striker ran in and smashed the ball (and Robbie). The ball flew through a crowd of people. It flew past Will Turner and into the bottom left hand corner. The neutral crowd erupted. The red & white Swalenian fans stopped their bobbing in the crowd. Robbie lay face down in the mud. His legs aching. He rolled over and looked at his legs. A thin trickle of blood ran down it. He put his face back in the mud and groaned. 1-0.

He lolloped Back to the centre circle and received the ball. He plopped it on the centre circle. The whistle blew and play resumed. He flicked it back to the wing and the Dragons moved forward. Robbie quickly made his way down the centre as Oscar Davies was playing the ball down the left wing, past a never-endindingly-confused Wight defender with a brain the size of a pea. Davies ran the ball near the corner flag, and and Robbie signalled for the ball. It came over with precise accuracy. He took it on his chest and bounced it down. He took it onto his weaker, right foot and flicked it through into the area. John Richards was on the end of it, and he struck the ball like and artist strikes the canvas. The ball flew and struck the fulcrum of the bar, ricocheting back into the mix. Seconds later, it was smashed out. Again. He jogged back again.

The end of the first half was nearing and Robbie was tiring. Sweat streamed down his forehead and it stained his red shirt. Twenty minutes of battering away at the Wight goal and no success. Edward Davies had got some saves good out of the Wight keeper, but to no avail. He was swearing to him self in Cyumri. He laughed at this. Suddenly he snapped out of it. Play was moving forwards. He ran on a straight line, determined to reach the box in time. He slowed, as did everything else. The ball floated over to him at the edge of the area, he took the ball on his thigh and pushed it back into the air, as he turned round a defender. It came back down, and with infinite precision. It seemed to break the air like a knife, and it flew into the net sweetly.

He couldn't believe it. He scored. HE SCORED! He wheeled off to the corner flag with his hands in the air. The Swalenian fans were down the other end of the pitch, but he could feel their joy. There was shouting and screaming, cheering and wailing. He stood facing the neutral fans with his arms aloft. Three of his team-mates hugged him, and he fell to the ground. He felt like sleeping. But he couldn't, he had to play football, for 47 minutes more, at least. He got up and cleaned the mud of his hands. 1-1

The whistle for the end of the first half went, and Robbie picked up the ball. He jogged back to the tunnel and went down it, feeling the warm rush of air. The changing room was loud, people laughing and joking. Robert Glyn-Dyr was having his arm stitched up, after a nasty foul from a troll-like player. He picked up some energy drink and poured it over his head. It was cool and refreshing. The mud and grime on his shirt sluiced away. He loved the tast of Tropical Orange. It tasty tangy. Yum.

Second half. The words of Turner's teamtalk echoed in his head. He trudged to the edge of the centre circle and waited. The other team walked onto the pitch, one player just finishing of a raw lamb chop, the blood drizzling down his mangy beard. The whistle went. The ball moved backwards and the giants moved forward. He stepped out of their way and trailed after them. It was going to be a long night...

A couple of minutes later he was defending a free kick. It was conceded by Summers just outside the area, and Robbie quietly thought that the tackle deserved a red, but he only got yellow. The tallest player on the Wight team had lined up to take it. His size 17 boots were made of pigs hide. Nice touch. He ran/limped up to take it, and the air around the ball exploded as he made contact with it. The shot was like a cannon and everyone just watched the ball as it ripped through the air. It slammed into the bar, visibly damaged by the shot, it flew off to the right, where a Wight midfielder put it back into the box, where Robbie could do nothing but watch as a severly bruised striker walked up calmly tapped it into the net. Will Turner stood in the other side of the net, staring at the gaping hole in his defence. Robbie put his head in his hands and groaned. He heard Turner berating his defence about Massive, Gaping Gaps!. He walked back slowly to the centre spot. Another kick off. 2-1.

Three minutes later Robbie was standing in the middle of the Wight half, hands on his hips. Oscar Davies and a Wight Brute were talking to the ref about a previous scuffle. Davies had a clear gash down his right arm, and the brute had an idiotic smile on his face. The free-kick went Swalenia's way. Robert Glyn-Dwr walked up to take it. Robbie ran into the box, but was marked by lamb-chop-bloody-beard-guy. He was positively scared by him. Dwr knocked the ball in and Richards received it on the edge of the area. He played a high ball across where Robbie ran across to receive it. But before he reached it, he was scythed down. He tumbled head over heels and behind the goal. He looked up and heard the crowd. The Referee was pointing to the spot. Penalty!. Rich Gompertz came and helped him up. He walked to the edge of the area and waited.

The crowd was silent. Rich Gompertz stood three yards from the ball. He had his hands on his hips, glaring at the Wight keeper, trying to figure him out. He'd watched clips of the Wight keeper; he had a tendency to go low and right. He decided to place it high and left, make him look silly. He ran in to take it, and, truth behold, the Keeper went right, and the ball floated in. Robbie sprinted over and hugged him, practically walling Jack Higgins in the process. He was ecstatic. Rich did nothing but soak it up. They were both happy...

He was then subbed off, and he headed for a shower. The hot water calmed him and he stepped out tired. He went to the changing room and sat down. He was soon asleep, wearing only his towel...

TBC...

by **Ancharmunn** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 4:23 pm

“Son, I want you to wear this.”

It had been almost two hours now since Paul Andrew had spoken those words to Tiarnán Ó Beolláin whilst handing him a armband embroiled with the Irish word 'Captaen'. For Andrew that particular choice of words may or may not have meant anything. For Ó Beolláin they meant everything.

It was amazing how quickly time could pass. It had been barely a year since Sorthern Northland, the nation of both Ó Bealláin and Andrew's birth, had capitulated in a self inflicted nuclear apocalypse bringing about an end to the civil war that had engulfed the nation. Millions had died, whilst those who could escape scattered around the world. Many though had settled in Ancharmunn, a nation which shared with Sorthern Northland a Gaelic tongue and heritage and as such had offered sanctuary to those Sortherners seeking refuge.

Ó Bealláin and Andrew were far from the only Sortherners involved in football to take up the offer. Stephen Nightingale, Grace Tyler and Harriet Waddington had all been part of the Sorthern Northland squad knocked out of World Cup 57 by Krytenia as Sorthern Northland collapsed. Sorthern Rovers, always a club largely inhabited by Sorthern ex-pats but now bolstered by professionals from the country, had managed last season to beat perennial champions Goidelic to the National Soccer League championship.

The manager behind that success had been Andrew, a feat that would convince the Cumann Sacair an Taermann to place him in charge of the national team, and Ó Bealláin had been one of Sorthern Rovers key players, good enough to earn a call up and the captaincy of Ancharmunn. Having lost the entirety of his family and the vast majority of his friends in Sorthern Northland's destruction the Rovers had been just about all he'd had in a last year. More than just a football club, but a family to him with Andrew as the father.

The family had now been extended though, one that reflected a new beginning for himself and many more hundreds of thousands of Sortherners. Leading his team mates to the section of Ancharmunn support within the Purple Pearl Arena following Ancharmun's 1-0 defeat to Vettrera this new family may not have had a victorious start, but they were at least together.

by **Azrael** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 4:24 pm

Azrielen Epiku du Futbal
Azrael's Football Epic

Azrael stared for what seemed like an eternity, examining his face as if he was viewing it for the first time in his life and that he was some strange, alien creature whom he had never seen before. No thoughts crossed his mind except for the pity he felt for himself. Despite having made it this far into his quest to enter the Baptism of Fire, Azrael wondered if he even qualified to move anymore. His battered and bloody figure remained beside the pond's shore kneeling for most of midday now. The morning was had seen a surprise attack from those monsters, and Azrael could not force the memory out of his mind. He remembered what the elders had tolled him: those beasts were known as Hooligans - monsters who assault using mental and physical force, discouraging their opponents from fighting back. Had Azrael not been able to flee while attempting to ignore there onslaught, he might have never even had a chance of reaching the Baptism of Fire. All Azrael wanted to think about now was how he could possibly continue on his way to his destination. He looked up to the sky and stood up for the first time since he fainted several hours ago. He had been running from those monsters and had only stopped once he had reached the lakeside in a valley near the rocky trail where he had been attacked. It was as if a sanctuary had appeared, just for him. Azrael decided to remain here as long as needed for him to rejuvenate. "Then,", he thought, "then I shall try once more and hope that I can continue until I find what I'm looking for. I will not give up on this opportunity to prove myself! I shall reach the Baptism of Fire! I shall do the best I can! I shall let everyone know my strength! First... first I just have to find it..."

by **Astograth** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 5:01 pm

MD2 RPs for the Astograth region are CUT OFF, scores incoming.

by **Astograth** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 5:16 pm

Astograth Region: Matchday 2 Results

Group F
Ima and Eastern Mae 4–1 Stvoto Latoli
Vettrera 0–2 Oliveland
Lizland 1–2 Ancharmunn

Group F                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Oliveland              2   2  0  0    4   0  +4    6
2 Vettrera               2   1  0  1    1   2  −1    3
3 Ancharmunn             2   1  0  1    2   2   0    3
4 Lizland                2   1  0  1    2   2   0    3
5 Ima and Eastern Mae    2   1  0  1    4   2  +2    3
6 Stvoto Latoli          2   0  0  2    1   6  −5    0

Group G
Newland-America 0–2 French Scandinavia
Ocaterra 0–1 Bruyn
Baleyaroh 0–3 Landpolis

Group G                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Bruyn                  2   2  0  0    3   0  +3    6
2 Ocaterra               2   1  0  1    2   1  +1    3
3 Landpolis              2   1  0  1    3   2  +1    3
4 French Scandinavia     2   1  0  1    2   2   0    3
5 Newland-America        2   0  1  1    1   3  −2    1
6 Baleyaroh              2   0  1  1    1   4  −3    1

Group H
Nifferite 2–1 Diol
West Angola 1–1 Azrael
Cascratia 2–1 Herenia

Group H                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Cascratia              2   2  0  0    4   2  +2    6
2 West Angola            2   1  1  0    6   1  +5    4
3 Azrael                 2   1  1  0    4   2  +2    4
4 Nifferite              2   1  0  1    3   3   0    3
5 Diol                   2   0  0  2    2   5  −3    0
6 Herenia                2   0  0  2    1   7  −6    0

Group I
Anglegard 0–2 19th Century Beards
Politik 2–0 Kerblaekistan
PuertoRico 0–1 Naboompu

Group I                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Politik                2   2  0  0    5   0  +5    6
2 19th Century Beards    2   1  1  0    3   1  +2    4
3 Naboompu               2   1  0  1    1   3  −2    3
4 PuertoRico             2   0  1  1    0   1  −1    1
5 Anglegard              2   0  1  1    0   2  −2    1
6 Kerblaekistan          2   0  1  1    1   3  −2    1

by **Kagdazka and Pazhujebu** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 6:01 pm

Maintained by the Occult Studies Department

For many a century, children have stared at the taiga pine forests of Kagdazka in terror. Of course, there is a plethora of wild animals that they ought to be careful of, so their fear is perhaps not wasted. But animals are not the source of their angst. We have told stories of many things in our history, but no legend persists in our memories more than that of Baba Yaga and her black geese.

If one walks far enough into the deep pine forest, legend says they will eventually begin to see massive flocks of black geese above them in the sky. So many geese will appear that they begin to blot out the sun. If this paranormal experience is not enough to persuade our imaginary hero to turn around, then much more terrible sights await them. For in the middle of the forest, Baba Yaga's hut awaits.

A small and unassuming abode it would be were it not for the fact that it stands upon two gigantic, perverse chicken legs which propel the hut about at the will of its owner. Baba Yaga herself, if our hero should be so unfortunate as to see her, emerges from the front door. Her clothes are tattered, her nose crooked, her hair cloud white and frizzy beyond repair, her face grotesquely wrinkled, her hands clenched, her nails dirty, her teeth of iron, and her expression furious.

She is rarely gracious to those who visit her. Those who appear without just cause are likely to be slain without a word if they are lucky; the unfortunate ones will be dragged kicking and screaming into her horrible hut and baked alive in her sickeningly huge oven.

Needless to say, all these travails can be avoided if one simply never ventures forth into the woods. But for those who must journey to meet the terrible witch, she is, on occasion, not the monster she appears at first glance to be.

Throughout history, there are some who have seen Baba Yaga's gentler and kinder side. Those who come before her in need, those who are good of spirit but not of luck, may be treated to the hag's lust not for flesh, but for justice. For these fortunate few, they see not her horrible hair or skin, but her sympathetic blue eyes. They hear not the gnashing of her terrible teeth, but her eerily youthful voice.

By perseverance or perhaps merely dumb luck, our University's own faculty member, Dr. Vladimir Zotkin, has over the years developed a friendship with our feared antagonist, Baba Yaga. What could possibly have brought these two together, you ask? Why, football!

Indeed, for several years, Baba Yaga was the manager of the Kagdazka and Pazhujebu national football team. Her reputation as a disciplinarian was admired around the world, for players refusing her tough training sessions and strict dietary regimens were known to be struck down with any number of terrible hexes which left them disfigured and close to death.

But her tactical know-how was unremarkable, and though she led the Urchins to two World Cups, her side were quickly eliminated from the group stage in both, and she was asked to step down from her post by the KPFA in the year 5249 (Pazhujebi calendar). Since, she has returned to the woods where she had resided for millenia before, biding her time before venturing out into the public eye once more. Her only contact with the outside world has been Dr. Zotkin.

In their exchanges, they have often discussed the history of the world's game. We at the University of Gvardeysk are happy to publicize portions of these interviews for public consumption.

Dr. Zotkin: Here I am, shaking to my bones, in a hut in the deep of the Kagdaz forest. I know not where I am, which is just as well, for if I did I would surely aid in some fool's misadventures by providing him a map towards this terrible place. The gigantic oven of which I have been told a thousand times is real, just a few feet to my right. But also here in this structure are the makings of a home; a pantry, a sink, and indeed a cot (though its location is curious at best... atop the oven). It has become abundantly clear to me over the course of my visits that Baba Yaga is not the demonic being she is often depicted as. In fact, she can be a superb resource for those who wish to hear first-hand accounts of history. Babushka, thank you for having me.

Baba Yaga: Oh, tasty little Zotkin, thank you for coming so willingly! Usually I have to track down little children for my dinner, and let me tell you, they can run quite fast!

Uhhhh...

That was a joke.

Oh. I thought so. Anyway, I was hoping we might discuss what is often known as the second era of World Cup history; the period between World Cups 11 and 18, when many new modernisations swept across the world of sport.

Indeed. I watched from afar, long before the nations of Kagdazka or Pazhujebu ever came to be, and saw these events of which you speak... the Rise of Karela...

That is one of the things I wanted to ask you about. For most of the World Cup's very early history, no nation was able to establish itself as a dominant force in the game. Granted, Brazillico were quite a strong outfit, and Europa Britannia had made a habit of repeatedly getting into the last four, but nothing like Rejistania.

Yes, Dr. Zotkin, the Orange-Blues established a tactical knowledge of the game far surpassing any other nation for their time, and still today we hear the term 'System Karela' spread around liberally. Many use the term as an epithet, for indeed System Karela was negative football at its most refined level. But these naysayers forget two things: first, that whatever one thought of the aesthetics of Karela, for the nation of Rejistania, it was an art; an art that led them to three world titles between World Cups 12 and 18. Secondly, without Karela, the world might never have discovered Takil, the opposite of Karela... positive football at its finest.

By the end of World Cup 18, Rejistania would obtain a KPB ranking that would not be matched for another twenty Cups, by Valanora.

Here you touch upon the other great development of this era. For the modern footballing nation, the KPB ranking system is but a foregone conclusion. Every World Cup cycle, national team representatives pour together from far and wide to see the new rankings. It is indeed a thrilling moment, though I fear some take it too far... what are all those inane comments about being equivalent to Latvia, Botswana, or Bhutan all about, Dr. Zotkin?

Don't ask.

Oh. Well, whatever. My point is, there was once a time when the world rankings were but a figment in a World Cup bureaucrat's imagination. Statisticians from the nation of Kaze Progressa developed the formula originally around the time of World Cup 9, and was modified shortly afterwards by unknown persons from the nation of Bedistan. This leant it the initials KPB, by which it has been known ever since.

And the KPBs changed the way that nations were ranked forever, didn't it, Babushka?

Yes. With an understanding of national teams' relative skill to one another, the door was open for powerful teams to unleash their dominance upon the rest of the multiverse.

And Rejistania were the first to do so.

Indeed they were. It all began in World Cup 11, really. The KPBs were not used, but a predecessor system, the RPR rankings, were. This formula calculated dominance as a sum of media coverage in any given nation and team performance in the previous cup. It was not perfect, but some argue that it set the stage for the KPBs to come. Europa Britannia won World Cup 11, beating co-hosts Warnocks Wizards one nil.

The Orange-Blues of Rejistania performed well in that Cup, though, did they not?

Rejistania were put out in the quarterfinals by New Montreal States in World Cup 11. They revitalized their squad for World Cup 12, however, replacing the old guard with many new names. However, one name that remained was Syku Lyku, the legendary striker who scored Rejistania's first-ever goal. He would ultimately score the penalty that won the Orange-Blues World Cup 12 after Audioslavia's left back Aaron O'Hara missed his shot from twelve yards.

And thus began the Rise of Karela, no?

World Cup 13 saw Warnocks Wizards, who two Cups before had been a finalist and co-host, cease to exist. This action triggered the unprecedented action of an 80-point penalty. Their consequent elimination benefited Snub Nose 38, who had become a regular participant by this time. The most notable thing about the Hooligans was how they ensured success: by having their Minister of Athletics, Olympics, and Alcoholic Beverages keep the company of a strange, rude woman dressed in burgundy robes and a midnight blue hooded cape. This woman's name was Margaret, and she made a habit of sacrificing rubber chickens in order to appease the random number gods.

Rumor has it Margaret is an old friend of yours.

I can neither confirm nor deny this rumor.

Hmm. Well, did Snub Nose 38 do any better for having been the beneficiaries of Warnocks Wizards' elimination?

Hardly. They were eliminated in the group stage of World Cup 13. Eauz beat Spaam in the final. If not for Rejistania's later successes, Eauz might have been remembered as the great juggernaut of this era, for they would go on to more greatness later.

Let's not put the cart before the horse. World Cup 14: were Rejistania robbed?

Ah, you refer to the great controversy of the final versus Kingsford. A Kingsforder player, one with a mental handicap by the name of Jingus Gonorrhea, was substituted into the match early on. After aimlessly kicking the ball into the stands and accidentally killing a spectator, Gonorrhea collapsed onto the pitch, sobbing. He remained there for the better part of the match, until in the fifth minute of stoppage time when a Kingsforder desperately struck a ball that accidentally struck the motionless Gonorrhea, bounced off of him, and into the Rejistania goal.

It should have been offside, shouldn't it?

The arguments will live long into history. Were Rejistania the better side? Probably.

World Cup 15 was the single hiccup for the Rejistanians during this era; they were dumped out in the group stage despite winning against eventual champions Commerce Heights.

Yes, they were. World Cup 15 was, to my knowledge, one of only two Cups in which a team that obtained merely three points in the group stage went on to win it. (The second incidentally, came soon after.) Commerce Heights, a nation which many nations are familiar with due to their ownership of the UICA and its related competitions, took about the hardest road possible on their way to winning World Cup 15. They had but one lonely victory in Group G, over Creedence Clearwater, yet still went through on goal difference in a three-way tie for last place. They would defeat Kaze Progressa, Lovisa, Eauz, and Squornshelous in the knockouts.

World Cup 16 saw yet another hosting disaster; the once-powerful nation of Brazillico ceased to exist during qualifying and Rejistania was forced to host the cup on their own.

Indeed, I remember that strange event: investigators later wandered into the jungles of Brazillico to find some occupants, and yet they could find no one. It was as if they had all simply stood up and left. But the show went on, and Eauz won their second title. Rejistania were only put out narrowly by Bedistan in the semifinal. They would ultimately win the Third-Place Playoff in extra time.

They would come back to life in the next tournament, though oddly enough their semifinal victory is marred, records cannot illuminate the scoreline of the match between Rejistania and Melmond.

Yes, that was strange, but most historians recall the scoreline being two nil. I am sure you could search out a Vilitan expert who might clear things up, as Vilita co-hosted World Cup 17 along with Kaze Progressa. What is clear is that Rejistania were relentless at this time. They lost just a single match in a fourteen matchday qualifying phase to make it into the finals. However, more trying times awaited them in the finals proper; they hammered El Cid the Hero five nil in their first match, but lost the next two. Remember how Commerce Heights had made it through back in World Cup 15? That's how Rejistania had to do it, scraping through on goal difference. They would encounter even more drama as the tournament progressed, having to win two matches in extra time, including the final.

The Rise of Karela came to its zenith in World Cup 18, when the Rejistanians successfully defended their title.

True. Recall if you will Syku Lyku, the great hero of Rejistania's first-ever World Cup title. By the time of World Cup 18, he had become the side's manager, developing a regimen of highly-defensive tactics, which I described to you earlier as 'System Karela.' This style served the Orange-Blues well in World Cup 18, with defender Sasijilvenku Dikelesinivetisaru becoming one of the most feared names in football. Rejistania conceded just seven goals during qualifying for that cycle and never lost, a feat that only a few nations have since matched.

I suspect you are hinting at something, Babushka... perhaps you are reminding our readers that you accomplished something similar during World Cup 55 qualifying with the Urchins?

Perhaps I am. But we shall save that discussion for another time. Rejistania's true dominance took form in the finals proper, wherein they won seven straight matches. Nobody got close to them.

The World Cup 18 final between the Orange-Blues and Kaze Progressa was one of the great matches in football history, wasn't it?

Very much so. Striker Salakerijasamenatira Harakemindanutikejil scored the first goal off an early free kick. I can still remember hearing the Rejistanian-language television feed I watched the match on... "XXXXKKKOOORRAA!" they cried. Kaze Progressa would equalize in the fourteenth minute, and take the lead in the thirty-fourth, but Tuade Lue of the legendary Starblaydi club Iskara Daii would score the equalizer for the defending champions just before half time. Sani Luvo would put Kaze Progressa ahead once again in the 63rd minute, but the final half hour saw a performance for the ages. Notorious 'supersub' Jenji Y collected the match's third equalizer in the 69th minute after coming on as a substitute and put Rejistania ahead for good in the 76th. I was forced to watch the final fifteen minutes of the game on mute, because the noise of the Orange-Blues' supporters celebrating ruined all of the sound equipment.

And that was the culmination of the age known as the Rise of Karela.

It was, Dr. Zotkin. Rejistania would remain a power for a few more Cups, but another new behemoth was rising to tower over all. It was, however, not a single nation, but a collection of nations: the continent known as Atlantian Oceania.

But we shall discuss that new era at a later time. Thank you, Babushka.

OOC: RP CUTOFF FOR MATCHDAY TWO!

by **Kagdazka and Pazhujebu** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 6:13 pm

Matchday Two Scores, Kagdazka and Pazhujebu Region

Group A
Baltskandio 1–3 Zona Azul
Trafalgar 1–0 Stockton-on-Tees
Equestrian States 1–2 Sjovenia

Group A                              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Zona Azul                            2   2  0  0    5   2  +3    6
2 Sjovenia                             2   2  0  0    4   1  +3    6
3 Equestrian States                    2   1  0  1    3   2  +1    3
4 Trafalgar                            2   1  0  1    1   2  −1    3
5 Stockton-on-Tees                     2   0  0  2    1   3  −2    0
6 Baltskandio                          2   0  0  2    1   5  −4    0

Group B
Hutt River 1–0 Luziyca
New Holy Roman Empire 0–3 Yesopalitha
Actaris 1–0 Armed Bears

Group B                              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Yesopalitha                          2   2  0  0    5   0  +5    6
2 Hutt River                           2   2  0  0    3   1  +2    6
3 Actaris                              2   1  0  1    2   2   0    3
4 Armed Bears                          2   1  0  1    2   1  +1    3
5 Luziyca                              2   0  0  2    0   3  −3    0
6 New Holy Roman Empire                2   0  0  2    0   5  −5    0

Group C
Karlada 1–3 Wight
Erikkesh 0–3 Swalenia
The Greater Aryan Race 2–2 Ellison Island

Group C                              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Swalenia                             2   1  1  0    5   2  +3    4
2 Wight                                2   1  1  0    5   3  +2    4
3 The Greater Aryan Race               2   1  1  0    4   2  +2    4
4 Erikkesh                             2   1  0  1    3   5  −2    3
5 Ellison Island                       2   0  1  1    4   5  −1    1
6 Karlada                              2   0  0  2    1   5  −4    0

Group D
Byfugland 0–0 United Kingdom of the Southwest
Sìgerén 2–1 Elmonia
Switzida 0–2 Numbadon

Group D                              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Sìgerén                              2   2  0  0    5   1  +4    6
2 Numbadon                             2   1  0  1    2   3  −1    3
3 Byfugland                            2   0  2  0    2   2   0    2
4 United Kingdom of the Southwest      2   0  2  0    1   1   0    2
5 Elmonia                              2   0  1  1    2   3  −1    1
6 Switzida                             2   0  1  1    2   4  −2    1

Group E
Puerto Candelaria 2–1 The Araucania
Überhölichschleissen 0–0 Landereien
Oasirica 3–0 Pelmany

Group E                              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Oasirica                             2   2  0  0    6   0  +6    6
2 Überhölichschleissen                 2   1  1  0    5   2  +3    4
3 Puerto Candelaria                    2   1  0  1    2   4  −2    3
4 Landereien                           2   0  2  0    1   1   0    2
5 The Araucania                        2   0  1  1    2   3  −1    1
6 Pelmany                              2   0  0  2    2   8  −6    0

by **West Angola** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 6:46 pm

DESPITE SMALL STUMBLE, WEST ANGOLA STILL CONTENDER

West Angola’s beloved national team struggled slightly last night against Azrael in their second match in Astograth. Despite a hard fight, an amazing defensive effort on the part of Azrael hamstrung West Angola’s high-octane offense as star forward Luke Parrish was contained and made a non-factor by the Azraelian defense, leaving Isaac Warren to score the team’s only goal, equalizing for good in the 83rd minute. The team did not seem harmed by the absence of keeper Phillip Garren, who is currently hospitalize with a crushed right foot; as backup William Danforth Jr. allowed only one goal of his own, in the 39th minute by Scott Harrison.

Despite the draw, West Angolan Coach Peter Warren said he was “confident” that the team was “still a serious contender” to advance to the next round and assured West Angola’s fans that the tragic accident of keeper Phillip Garren “did not affect [the team’s] play in any negative way”. Phillip Garren was unavailable for comment, but Astograthian nurse Lucy Smoltz had this quote for our reporting team: “Get out of this hospital before I break your nose.” Despite this setback, it is clear that the West Angolan team is not worried about their chances to qualify for the second round.

Scoring:
39th Minute: Scott Harrison takes pass from Damian Sanford and fakes out Danforth Jr. with shot to the middle.
Azrael 1, West Angola 0
83rd Minute: Isaac Warren chests down clearance attempt by Reece Gallagher
and out-sprints the defense, scoring far post on Gallagher.
.
Azrael 1, WEST ANGOLA 1

Player of the Game: Reece Gallagher

by **Azrael** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 8:11 pm

Azrael undefeated after first two matches of Baptism of Fire
Apologies for the late news. The Azrael Football Association had some trouble receiving information from Astograth, where the national team is currently stationed, for yesterday's match. It received no such trouble for today's game.

The Azrael national football team is so far undefeated at the Baptism of Fire. Yesterday's match against Diol in Astograth ended in a 3-1 victory and today's match against West Angola finished in a 1-1 deadlock.

Azrael vs Diol
Azrael's national football team was able to defeat Diol yesterday for its first win in the Baptism of Fire. The historical victory was supported by magnificent goals from forwards Kazim Ghazali and Scott Harrison, as well as a free kick goal from Malcolm Adler. A splitting pass by Damian Sanford left the defense trailing Ghazali, who coolly slotted the ball under the 'keeper. Scott Harrison doubled the lead shortly before the half with a shot from just barely inside the 18 yard box after receiving a short pass from Malcolm Adler. The second half saw a surprise goal from Diol cut the lead in half, but Adler would restore the 2 goal lead from a free kick shortly before the game's end.

Azraen Match Summary
Scoring Summary
29th min -- Kazim Ghazali 1(asst. Damian Sanford 1)
43rd min -- Scott Harrison 1(asst. Malcolm Adler 1)
83rd min -- Malcolm Adler 1(unassisted)

Azrael Lineup
Gallagher, Krasnovsky, Tyler, Marshall, Rocha, Valentín (Navarro-47th min), Adler, Sanford (O'Neill-84th min), Rosales, Ghazali, Harrison (Benoit-72nd min)

Azrael vs West Angola
Azrael finished their second match drawing 1-1 with West Angola, in what was no doubt one of the most urgent matches of the tournament so far. Despite only 2 goals, both team's offenses took several chances to put more goals on the board. Top defense from both nations allowed the teams to only take a goal apiece. Azrael backstop Reece Gallagher, who was awarded Player of the Game rewards for his efforts, showed plenty of energy at the back, commanding his defence furiously and making 11 saves, with plenty of other chances for West Angola being shut down by the Azraen defense. The 23-year-old 'keeper's only major mistake came in the 83rd minute, when a botched clearance was intercepted by Isaac Warren, who beat the defense to score himself. Azrael likewise had a difficult time trying to beat West Angolan fill-in goalie William Danforth, Jr., with Scott Harrison scoring the game's first goal in the 39th minute after receiving a pass from Damian Sanford and faking out Danforth, Jr. for his second goal of the tournament. Azrael's offense would continue to struggle throughout the rest of the game as West Angola's defense boosted their play and Azrael faced an onslaught at the back. Tremendous effort would prevent both teams from scoring anymore as well as keep both teams in focus in the high intensity of the match.
Azrael now sits third in Group H.

Match Summary
Scoring Summary
Azrael -- 39th min -- Scott Harrison 2(asst. Damian Sanford 2)
West Angola -- 83rd min -- Isaac Warren (unassisted)

Azrael Lineup
Gallagher, Krasnovsky, Tyler, Marshall, Rocha, Valentín (Wong-75th min), Adler, Sanford(Navarro-52nd min), Rosales, Ghazali(Toyama-80th min), Harrison

by **Karlada** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 8:13 pm

Karlada is once again disappointed as the national football team suffers another loss, this time to Wight. Still not all news was so unfortunate, as they scored their first goal of the tournament. Head coach Fraydar Klosdobal had this to say about the match:

"I told the boys to get more aggressive out there on the field, and they took it to heart. We had a few scoring opportunities, and capitalized on one of them, but in the end our mistakes cost us the game. We've lost the first two matches, but we still have a shot, as none of the other teams have broken out of the pack. We remain hopeful as ever."

Karlada's only goal was scored by forward Helvako Slobeneada, 23 minutes in. The goal was assisted by Randalfo Wilosak.
11 shots were taken by Karlada, 7 in the first half, 4 in the second half.
Helvako Slobeneada took 6 shots, scoring one.
Trena Goronay attempted 3 shots.
Randalfo Wilosak and Yurik Obrana each attempted one shot.
Several players received yellow cards this match: Pelenad Fendsdem, Hayward Elward, Yurick Obrana, Randalfo Wilosak, and Helvako Slobeneada.
Defender Filo Walokor was mildly injured towards the end of the first half, returning in the second half.

About me · by **Luziyca** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 8:13 pm

13 Luziycan Fans at the Stadium where the Second Match was being played

13 fans had gathered at the stadium, sitting all in a row. They were the only supporters for the Luziycans in the stadium, playing against Hutt River. When the match started, a banner was revealed, reading, "EH O LUZIYCA GO!" Luziycan flags were waved, as well as a single Hippostanian flag, presumably from someone who migrated from Hippostania when the Pony Revolution occurred. As they saw the goals by Hutt River, every time the ball went into the Luziycan's net, the fans booed.

At intermission, Henri Leville, a Hippostanian-born Luziycan said, "You know how horrible the Luziycans are? The defense, for God's sake, was brutal. Right?"

"Right," came the reply of the other twelve.

Then a lady, Kivan Legov replied, "I totally agree with what you said. Hutt River really overpowered us, 1-0. I hope that the next round, us Luziycans will improve. We are playing to win, to conquer the sporting world."

Henri laughed and when he was able to give a straight face, he said in his Hipponian accent, "Yeah. Those damn commies of Hutt River are doping. Luckily, communism is not tolerated in the free lands of Hippostania and Luziyca."

Kivan then said, "Agreed. I hate teams that dope, and Hutt River really has doped. Why can't they kill themselves using a hospi-"

Kivan was interrupted when Abraham chimed in, "You are looking too negatively. I believe the Hutt River have been better trained. Like, I heard that they only allocated 100,000 lira to our soccer team, whilst Hutt River is, I don't know, in the hundred million dollars?"

Henri then said, "Fuck you, communist asshole."

When he said that, the next round began, and watched. It was boring, with the forward failing to get the ball in. Did he have no idea what was going on? However, the Luziycan defense was better coordinated. By the time the next intermission rolled around, they got talking once more.

Jessica said, "Yeah, pretty boring. Football is much better than rugby, which in Arazei, they call it football, and the real football, SOCCER. Like, what?"

Henri nodded and replied, "Yeah. At least Luziyca was better. And I know how you feel. I visited the capital of the Arazei Province and saw a football match. But their football was really barbaric. If I wanted to see that, I'd go to a bullfighting match."

Jessica sighed and said in a "meh"-ish tone of voice, "Agreed. Is it too good, or are we all losers?"

Kivan then said, "There are things in football you will never know about."

Jessica then yelled, "WHICH ONE? REAL, OR THE ARAZEI?"

Kivan sighed and muttered, "Both?"

The next round continued and was very identical to the second round. Once they got out, they headed to their hotel, and went to the restaurant in the hotel.

Jessica then said, "I love how they both played. It was good, but yeah, we need to improve."

Henri sighed and replied, "Yes. Like, have training by Baba Yaga, for example."

The whole restaurant was shocked. Baba Yaga was a villain in Luziycan and Slavic folklore, so naturally, it would shock them really hard. After several minutes, which felt like hours, Abraham managed to come back in.

"The most amusing thing," Abraham remarked, "of the match is the fact that we did HORRIBLE."

Kivan then said, "Yeah, we know about it. How many times do we have to be reminded of this crap?"

Joesph then said, "A zillion times, probably," sarcasm oozing out like one sucking through a straw.

They then received their meal, discussed more of the match, before it devolved into interests. Finally, they paid the bill and said, "Goodnight" to each other, and retreated to their rooms for the night.

by **Equestrian States** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 9:56 pm

OOC: I forgot to post this earlier and missed the cutoff, but I didn't want to waste a RP so...

Ursines and Ponies Play in the Same City on Same Night

Gelendzhik, Kagdazka- It has been a strange day for the humans of Gelendzhik. Fans of the Equestrian States and Armed Bears have streamed into the city to watch their teams play. But these fans are not human.

The Armed Bears is populated largely by Ursines, and the Equestrian States contains three types of Ponies (Pegasai, Unicorns, and Earth Ponies) in addition to several other sapient species. All of these are present in Gelendzhik today. As the Equestrian States prepares to face Sjovenia and the Armed Bears face Actaris, the city will be filled with non-human sounds.

Taking advantage if this unique situation, the Head Coaches of the two teams (Twilight Striker of the Equestrian States and Surra Rueth’hron of the Armed Bears) enjoyed a meal at a local hotel. According to Coach Striker, topics covered included discussions of their homelands and of an interest in arranging a friendly should the two teams not play in the tournament. They avoided directly discussing strategies as they may have the opportunity to play each other in the future.

One thing is certain however, both teams will face talented human squads, and will have to continue performing well if they are to advance.

by **Newland-America** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 10:14 pm

"Dammit!" Coach Jenkens yelled. "What the hell is wrong with me! I should have known nothing would go as planned! We played like shit out there yesterday! We need to do better in todays game!"

"I know, I know," said forward Christopher Landgroff.

"Well then get my men to play better, dammit!"...

by **Yesopalitha** » Sat Jan 07, 2012 11:19 pm

Hilary Vander Rox's Blog Session - 4: After the Game against New Holy Roman Empire

Welcome to http://www.yesopalithasports.com, where Hilary Vander Rox will answer all your questions about the Baptism of Fire team for an hour every few days! Get on, and ask away! Hilary will pick out questions to answer, live!
Note from the site: Hilary will be with us shortly. You may begin sending in questions now.
1:56 PM

-HVR0037 has joined the blog.
2:00 PM

HVR0037: Hey guys! Hilary Vander Rox, the Captain of the Yesopalitha Flames, here with you. Game two is over and in the books! Let's get to your questions!
2:01 PM

HVR0037: Comment from WinEveryOne: "Win every one and take the title! Go Yesopalitha!" We shall sure try, WinEveryOne!. We do want that title, and we will do everything in our power in order to reach it!
2:03 PM

HVR0037: Question from Frankie07: "Nice offensive outburst. That front three seems to be working very well with the midfielders."Everything seemed to go our way today! Nadya, Earie, and Vincent were all brilliant at attacking the poor Roman Goalie! It was brutal, and with the way that the midfield was passing the ball back and forth, I think that we are ready to handle anyone the way that we are playing at the moment! I love this!
2:07 PM

HVR0037: Question from TheBearsLost: "What did you think of the fact that Armed Bears lost to Actaris?" I am not sure what exactly happened to the Bears. I will have to watch the tape. I do know that they're going to have more of a do-or-die mentality now, though, so we need to watch for them. This also means that Actaris won't be a pushover either... It just makes our group be more interesting. And since Hutt River is also 2-0, the match against them will be crucial as well. With a five-game qualifying schedule, every game is important, and we can't take our foot off the gas pedal until our job is all done.
2:13 PM

HVR0037: Comment from GoalsGoalsGoals: "Let's talk about the goals! There were three of them! Nadya scored yet another one!" Miss Nadya scored her second goal of the season! And does it in stunning fashion, hitting a no-look, misdirection goal. That was a beauty to watch, and I was on the field! Our offense is starting to go now, and I love it.
2:17 PM

HVR0037: Comment from HaleyIsMyHero: "You scored two! And one of them was assisted by Jane!" Thank you so much, fan! Jane fed me a beautiful one off of a steal, and I had a clear shot. Manager Mitchell stresses taking opportunities when they arise. When I get a shot, I am told to take it. I plan on it. We are all a big family; We help each other. The defense stole the ball and gave it to us midfielders, who feed it to the forwards... It's a chain.
2:19 PM

HVR0037: Question from AMinorConcern: "One thing I've noticed is that you haven't gotten into many set pieces yet." That is something that Manager Mitchell is worried about as well, AMinorConcern. We haven't had many free-kick or corner-kick or penalty-kick opportunities. I guess that's what happens when your opponent plays a clean game. Don't worry, though, hopefully we'll get into those situations soon, and be able to take advantage of what is given to us.
2:22 PM

HVR0037: Question from GoFlames: "Who do you think needs to do better?" You're going to ask me this after every game, aren't you? Well, everyone is getting even better. We haven't allowed a single goal yet, and our offense is starting to get along. But the best is still yet to come.
2:25 PM

HVR0037: Question from TheRefs: "What do you think of the officiating so far?"I think that with the level of competition that the BoF has been, the officials of Kazdaka and Pazhujebu have been doing a wonderful job. I have no complaints with what they have been doing so far, and commend them for the job that they have done.
2:34 PM

Note from the site: No other questions will be accepted.
2:35 PM

HVR0037: I've decided that forty minutes a night is the best that I can do, guys. I apologize. Comment from KeepItUp: "Keep up the good work, we're proud of you!"Thank you! we do it for the fans, for the peoples of Yesopalitha. It is an honor to represent you all!
2:38 PM

HVR0037: Well that is all from me today, folks! Thanks for your support! Watch us through the tournament! Have a great one, and... Perseverantia Saeculorum! Perseverance without end! Bye!
2:39 PM

-HVR0037 has left the blog.
2:40 PM

Thank you for joining Hilary Vander Rox for the online Q/A session at http://www.yesopalithasports.com. Please come back soon for more coverage of Yesopalitha sports!

by **Cascratia** » Sun Jan 08, 2012 1:25 am

"That's bad for you," Nianara commented, sitting down next to Rokonara.

"Oh, it's you,"Rokonara replied, taking another drag of his cigarette. "It's just the same as using the painkillers and all the unnecessary meds and I use that all the time."

"It's still bad for you."

"What do you want Nia? You always want something, and I imagine it's not to look out for my health."

Nianara shrugged, he was concerned but there was no point saying so, Rokonara never believed him when he said that he cared.

"It's not a hard question, there are only two things you ever want, a fight or…" Rokonara smirked whilst stubbing out the cigarette almost absentmindedly.

by **Swalenia** » Sun Jan 08, 2012 3:55 am

Kick off

The Ball beckoned. John calmly put his foot on the ball. He surveyed the opposition. They had no names on their shirts, but they looked decent. Robbie stood opposite him and he winked. John winked back. The whistle went and the ball was played back.

Rich played the ball out to the right to Oscar, who played it round an Erikkesh midfielder. Suddenly he found himself in 20 yards of space. He started to run. He reached the edge of the area, then loosed of a shot. It curled exquisitely. The Erikkesh defenders turned thier heads to watch the ball. It sailed through the air and narrowly missed the top right hand corner. The crowd exhaled and sighed, and a spatter or applause was heard.

6 minutes later, it was a throw in on the right hand side. Robert Glyn-Dwr had walked over to take it. He picked it up and shouted at Robbie to make a run towards the corner flag. Robbie did so. They had practised this 100 times in training. It all worked so smoothly. Dwr flicked the ball to Robbie, who was un-marked. He was soon closed down, but that was all part of the drill. Robbie rolled it past the defender and lobbed it into the 6 yard box. John Richards ran the dummy to draw a defender, leaving Ben Summers un-marked in the 6 yard box. The ball fell for him and he slotted it into the right corner of the net. Slaying the Dragon, they called it. It worked wonderfully. 1-0 Swalenia

Robbie had lost all sense of time in the match. It had started at 3:00pm, but the clock in the stadium was broken. It felt like he'd been playing for hours. His hamstring was hurting. He trotted back up field as a goal kick was taken by the Erikkesh keeper. It flew over Robbie's head. He went after it. It was knocked back up the field and Robbie turned sharply. A fiery pain rippled through his calf. He stumbled and fell to the ground. He couldn't feel his right leg, or he could only feel it. Anyway, it hurt like hell. The whistle went. Several players gathered around him, until the referee and the physio came on. Minutes later he had limped off, aided by the two physios. He sat on the bench and took a drink. He felt angry.

The Physio came up through the tunnel and sat next to Robbie. Robbie looked up at him. He liked the physio. The physio was holding a clip-board. He had a grim expression on his face. What's the news? Robbie asked with a sigh. Well, I'll just say it. It's a strained hamstring, you're out for the tournament. This news broke Robbie's heart. His childhood dream was to play football for Swalenia, and now he had achieved it, it was wrenched away from him. He took his shirt off and put a long sleeved t-shirt. He put his feet up and put some music on. Swalenia had scored again, a close range tap in from Edward Davies. He didn't care....

Swalenia went on to win 3-0, with John Richards scoring a long range volley. Robbie chose to stay in K&P, even though his tournament was over. He had to walk around with crutches. But he was always happy and smiling. But he wanted to play. So badly...

by **The Greater Aryan Race** » Sun Jan 08, 2012 5:29 am

"We'll Have To Wok Harder" says Manager

From the Germania Morgenpost

GELENDZHIK-The Greater Aryan Race's title hopes suffered a setback as Ellison Island managed to force a draw with the national team. A disappointed Mr. Faust lamented the inability of his team to finish off the game.

"I felt that we had the upper hand throughout the game," he said in the post-match press conference. "We were playing well and should have finished off Ellison Island already. While I'm glad we've managed to maintain our 100% record of zero losses, no one wants to settle for one point, you've got to have the full complement. Nevertheless, the credit must go to Ellison Island. They fought from start to finish and managed to hold us to a draw. That's some very good fighting spirit they have."

Indeed, the team's failure to secure a win may prove to be costly, given the intense atmosphere of the Baptism of Fire.

The Greater Aryan Race had started off strongly with goals from Francis Spiegelmann and Klaus Allofs. Indeed, the Greater Aryan Race started out strongly and it looked as if though they would snatch another comfortable victory. Unfortunately, it was not to be.

Ellison Island came back strongly in the second half and soon, forced the Greater Aryan Race into constantly defending their own half of the pitch. The team failed to press forward their advantage and seemed content to sit back and let Ellison Island attack them. The team paid for their complacency when Ellison Island capitalized on some sloppy defending and scored two successive goals in the 70th and 74th minute. This had the desired effect of jolting the national team into quickly attempting to break the deadlock but to no avail, for Ellison Island's defence prevented the team from scoring at all.

The referee blew for full time later and honours were even as both teams shared the spoils of today's match.

More Reporting by Kurt Krause
Special Correspondent for the 45th Baptism of Fire

Baptism of Fire 45 Rosters/RP/Scores Thread (IC)

BoF 45 RP

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