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The Ides of March Cup

PostPosted: Fri Apr 01, 2011 8:36 am
by Polar Islandstates
THE IDES OF MARCH CUP
IDVS MARTIAE CALICEM


The football associations of The Grand Duchy of Astograth and The Federation of Polar Islandstates are delighted to announce the commencement of the Ides of March Cup.

History:
On the 15th of March, known to the Ancient Romans as the Ides of March, the Astograth team travelled to Franz Josef to play the Terns for their first ever international football match. This match ended in a 2-2 draw, and to commemorate this match in a gesture of goodwill and friendly natured rivalry between the two nations, the Ides of March Cup has been founded.

Every year on the 15th March (IC), the two football association will each send their league champions to compete in the cup, which will alternate hosting between the two nations, with the first edition being held in Astograth.

Astograth: 10
Polar Islandstates: 11
I: Royal Rumiatzi FC 0-1 SK Franz Josef City
II: Jan Mayen Islanders 1-3 Iturributa United
III: Iturributa United 1-1 Jan Mayen Islanders (2-2 AET, 5-4 PKs)
IV: East Franz Athletic 1-0 Sporting Iturributa
V: Ituraitz FC 2–2 SK Franz Josef City (4–2 AET)
VI: SK Franz Josef City 2-0 Ituraitz FC
VII: Royal Rumiatzi FC 1-2 SK Franz Josef City
VIII: Jan Mayen Islanders 1-1 Echegoyan FC (2-1 AET)
IX: Sporting Iturributa 1-2 East Franz Athletic
X: FC Cape St Paul 0-1 Iturributa United
XI: Ituraitz FC 3-3 SK Franz Josef City (3-3 AET, 3-4 PKs)
XII: East Franz Athletic 3-2 Royal Rumiatzi FC
XIII: Astograth University 0-1 East Franz Athletic
XIV: FC Axel Heiburg 2-1 Echegoyan FC
XV: Urbizania Wanderers 0-2 FC Axel Heiburg
XVI: East Franz Athletic 0–4 Ituraitz FC
XVII: Echegoyan FC 1–1 FC Axel Heiburg (1–1 AET, 4–2 PKs)
XVIII: SK Franz Josef City 0-0 Ituraitz FC (0-1 AET)
XIX: Ituraitz FC 4–2 Northbrook Diamonds FK
XX: FC1. Surtsey Island Gulls 1-3 Royal Rumiatzi
XXI: Urbizania Wanderers 3–1 Jan Mayen Islanders

OOC: Astograth and Polar Islandstates are going to alternate hosting of this minor international cup, where there will be an announcement, hosting details, a roster each, a possible RP, the scorination, and then an RP. Other nations could post in here if they really wanted to, but TG us to clear it first.

PostPosted: Fri Apr 01, 2011 8:37 am
by Polar Islandstates
Announcement, Edition I
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PostPosted: Sat Apr 02, 2011 8:05 am
by Astograth
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RUMIATZI GEARS UP FOR THE INAUGURAL IDES OF MARCH CUP


With the Ides of March Cup recently announced, the entire capital is rife with expectation. It's not every day, after all, that the champions of two emerging leagues meet on the hallowed ground of Grand Duke's Stadium. A special stage for a special show, as the 90,000-seater arena only sees football during the Royal Cup Final and when the national team plays, with fans and players alike looking forward to attending.

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Grand Duke's Stadium, ready to host the Ides of March Cup

In the Royal Rumiatzi camp, everyone is eager to play while manager Erruki Abaroa cautions against overconfidence. He certainly isn't, as the three-time league champions will be fielding the same starting 11 that took them to glory last season.

------------------Larretape------------------
-----Oteiza-----Galindo (C)-----Ezkiaga-----Atzpiri-----
------Malgor----------Alea---------Semënov------
----Balinaga----
-----Larreategi-----Arambilet-----

In goal will be the young Cheru Larretape, with two national team caps to his name and a very bright future ahead. Joining him in defence will be Lordi Atzpiri, Eder Ezkiaga, captain Silban Galindo and Gaizkine Oteiza. In center midfield will be the 26 year-old Garin Alea while Egoitz Malgor will be taking the right flank and the veteran Kagdaz star Slava Semënov will be going down the left. The playmaker will be Iban Balinaga, who despite his age and ever decreasing skill is still loved by the fans. On striker duty will be Hitzeder Larreategi and Gaur Arambilet, the latter of which had a superb season and is no doubt on the verge of a national team call-up.

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Royal Rumiatzi's new kits, with Fabri-Cool™ technology, will debut against Franz Josef City

The match will be aired on Hiru Kanala. If you'd rather see this momentuous occasion live tickets go on sale today, with special prices for subscribers of The Rumiatzi Sentinel. As is the nature of the Ides of March Cup, all proceeds will go to charity.

PostPosted: Sat Apr 02, 2011 2:16 pm
by Polar Islandstates
Roster
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Starting Line Up
-----------------Andreasson-----------------
--Nikkel---Ljungberg---Berg---Forsberg--
-----------------Sundstrom------------------
-------------Hansen-------Tir---------------
---Kjaer------------------------Fjorissen---
---------------------Skye---------------------

Subs:
GK- Lars Hegg Gammel
DC- Bergen Oledatter
DM- Arnur Jarntur
AM- Diedtmarr Erasmus
ST- Amadeus Irndtor
Manager - Teemu Johansson


Modifier: +1

SK Franz Josef City travel to Rumiatzi as the twice champions of the Federation's league, and having had their tails put firmly between their legs in their only jaunt into international competition so far, will not underestimate their opponents at all. Now used to playing in hostile atmospheres, and counting four players with international caps amongst their number, SKFJC will no doubt rely on talisman Timo Skye and his Tern-teammates Hansen and Berg to dominate proceedings in Astograth. They will hand starts to youngsters Jon Kjaer and Sander Ljungberg, hoping to blood them up for a dominant and confident performance in next season's Federation League, as a look over their shoulders at the chasing pack is far less reassuring than it was last season. Veterans Berg, Andreasson and Erasmus will be relied upon for calm leadership. If manager Teemu Johansson can control the enigmatic Timo Skye, this match could be a resounding victory for the Federation, a win will need a team performance however, and supporters of the reigning league champions will travel to Astograth hoping that this is the first of many Ides of March Cups that they will contest.

Kit:
Image

PostPosted: Sat Apr 02, 2011 5:39 pm
by Polar Islandstates
Jon Kjaer received the ball out on the right, he ducked one challenge and swung his left boot over the ball, wrong footing the defender he knocked the ball ahead of him down the wing, jumped over the outstretched foot and hurtled after it. Catching up with it he glanced up to find Skye in the box, casually calling for the ball, as if anyone else was the target. Jon struck the ball cleanly into the space ahead of Skye. He looked over and saw Skye run towards it, and noted the goalkeeper coming off his line. Kjaer turned around, not even bothering to see what happened, it was inevitable. He heard the swish and knew that Timo would have looped his header over the keeper and into the net. He might not do much else for the play of the team, but boy could that man finish a move.

Jon jogged slowly back to the halfway line, receiving a thumbs up from his boss as he ran past. Play like this could see him awarded with a call up to the Terns eventually. He was aware of how young he was, with only eight starts to his name in the league, but with five assists and a goal in those starts, he also knew he was turning heads. And yeah, Kirkkegaard didn't play with a winger formation, but formations could change.

He was grateful for this chance to play out in a foreign nation. The locals had seemed friendly and welcoming so far, and the staidum was incredibly impressive. Quite how he would feel about the stadium when it was full of screaming Astograthians he didn't know, but for now the chance to train on its turf was a memorable experience in itself for the youngster.

Johansson was shouting instructions at Skye now, something about knowing how some of the opposition played already from international matches, and how he should out-think them. Timo wasn't listening though. The striker had seemed more and more distant recently, and had recently been spotted with a foreign phrasebook in his hand. Which phrasebook it was differed depending on whose rumour you were listening to, but the guy was unsettled for sure. Maybe his ego had finally outgrown this team, and surely therefore, this nation?

Jon didn't like to think about what the team would do without him if he left, as he hurtled down the wing once more to lay the ball in to Skye, who once again hit the back of the net with an effortless volley that was almost hit with sheer boredom and contempt. Still, Jon would do his job, whoever was in the middle. Skye had his job, and Jon had his. If they were both playing to impress someone watching, then so be it.

Jon Kjaer received the ball out on the right, he ducked one challenge and swung his left boot over the ball...

PostPosted: Sat Apr 02, 2011 6:52 pm
by Astograth
Galindo looked at the empty stands with awe, imagining what the stadium would look like on that fateful 15th of March. Flooded with light and fans. That feeling of always being at home, no matter where you were.

He'd been there before, of course. Three times with the national team, of which he played in one match as a substitute, and several years ago in the first Royal Cup Final. It seemed like ages ago that he lifted that trophy in that magical inaugural season where they won the double. If they were lucky, he might lift another cup soon.

He was distracted from his thoughts by a lonely figure that seemed strangely familiar walking amongst the seats of the main stand, far above him. He couldn't see clearly, but something told him that man was special, and that they'd met before.

Frowning, he turned his attention to the more pressing matter of getting used to the pitch dimensions. It was smaller than what he was used to at the Knights' Stadium, and it felt a uncomfortable. The wingers might have trouble, he thought, but so would theirs. And from what he'd seen, it all relied on handing the ball to that insufferable Skye. Galindo had sat on the bench against the Polar Islandstates, but he'd seen Petrigai and Milian reduce Skye to nothing. Yes, he reckoned he and Eder could handle him.

He looked at the stands again, to the podium where he'd claimed the Royal Cup from the hands of the Grand Duke himself. They'd beaten Wanderers that night, and they'd felt invincible. He recalled that feeling, the intensity of the moment, and replaced every thought in his mind with a burning desire to stand on that stage once more, victorious.

PostPosted: Sat Apr 02, 2011 9:46 pm
by Erathore
To say he was there for his own amusement would not be the truth. Rather it would be half the truth. The man was there in a sort of scouting role. Of course he was also excited and happy to be there to see the Ides of March Cup between the two emerging footballing nations of Astograth and Polar Islandstates. The man had played Polar once before, in a friendly which saw Erathore win 4-2, with the man scoring a beautiful free kick goal in the dying minutes of the game.

Alexio Del Nieran smiled as he remembered that moment. And grimaced as he remembered the crunching tackle laid onto him by Timo Skye, the Polar striker. Despite that bad challenge, Nieran still respected Sky for being an immensely talented player. One that would fit in well at any Erathi club. Which brought Nieran's mind to his scouting role of being here as the teams practiced. He was here as a representative of the Erathore Football League and, naturally, his own club FC Mildrid, who recently won the first domestic treble. Nieran let his mind wander as he lamented on how he wasn't playing for the team when they pulled this feat off. No he was in Krytenia, playing in the joint Krytenian-Starblayida-Jesselton Liga Calania, with the Krytenian team Avidia United. Nieran led the team to the Liga Calania title, scoring 32 goals whilst playing and recording a record high amount of league points. It also bothered him that he had missed the debut's of Ryan Cote, Cesc Celestino, and, most importantly, Lee Sharp. The terrible trio had ripped apart defenses during their successful season. The terrible trio would have to expand to include Nieran as FC Mildrid took to the Rushmori Unity League this next season.

Nieran shook his head to clear these thoughts and to get back on topic. As he walked amongst the seats of the main stand, he noticed a Astograth player looking up at him. Nieran recognized the captain and center back Silban Galindo staring up at him. Nieran couldn't think of when they'd played each other. He shrugged, they probably met in the recent Football Cup held in Erathore. Nieran would get plenty of time to meet all of them. Now in his role of scout, Nieran was to take notes on good players and give those notes to the EFL, who would then distribute them among the Seria-A, Seria-B, and Seria-C clubs. Of course only the Seria-A and high level Seria-B clubs stood a chance at buying any of the players but you never know these days.

From the Astograth team, Nieran was mainly looking at Cheru Larretape, Silban Galindo, Iban Balinaga, and Gaur Arambilet. Cheru would find himself snatched by Drago de Celio, who had a wonderfully disastrous season, going from #4 to #16. Reial Capital would probably also pay top dollar for him, seeing as how they gave up a league high 82 goals. Galindo would fit in at Vincanto very well, taking over the aging Alfieri Benzio. FC Mildrid has probably been entertaining the thought of having defender of the year winner Barino Dino, near defender of the year Ryan Ginn, and Galindo at the back to support Celestino, Cote, Nieran, and Sharp. Balinaga would be offered a short, multi-million dollar deal by one of the three promoted teams from Seria-B seeing as how they would need a playmaker to give them the edge in Seria-A. Gaur Arambilet had a wonderfully season and would fit in very well with #2 Vincanto, #3 Drogba FC, #4 Western FC, or #6 Nicostrato. Nieran would have to pay close attention to the rest of the team though, incase any players had a surprisingly good game.

Nieran now focused on the Polar Islandstates team. Nieran had to be honest with himself. Only one player really stood out. Well maybe two but the second one hadn't been around or played enough to make a big impact. The latter player was Jon Kjaer. The young gun had started a mere 8 games in the Polar league, but he had five assists and a goal in those games. That was rather impressive. Kjaer could probably start for EMI FC, Manlio, and Nicostrato. Juvillian Martinax probably wouldn't mind him either, playing him in the midfield with Tappy Shogun. Alternatively, Kjaer could play for FC Mildrid where he would be sure to start out as a sub, but a few solid performances could see him playing the second half of lot of games. Now for the big and obvious player. Timo Skye. Slightly crazy, creative dribbler and shooter, the will to win. A perfect combination thought Nieran to himself. Just as he thought that, Skye scored with the assist coming from Kjaer. Nieran couldn't help but smile to himself. What better timing? Nieran then frowned as he realized that there would be no way he Skye could play for FC Mildrid. Cesc Celestino was rising fast and hard, and there was no way Skye could unseat Lee Sharp. However Skye could start at any other club. In fact there was word that Juvillian Martinax were very, very interested in adding Timo Skye to the team. Obviously he would be a starter with Gaespare Malvolio and Tappy Shogun, who hailed from Mangolana.

Alexio Del Nieran's only problem with this game was that he had to make sure to take notes whilst watching the game, as Marcello Dizarno would not be happy if Nieran returned with out some recommendations. It would be fun to watch this. It would be fun to see who would win. Nieran smiled to himself as he tucked his hands into the white FC Mildrid jacket he was wearing.

PostPosted: Sun Apr 03, 2011 8:05 am
by Astograth
IDES OF MARCH CUP
Edition I

Royal Rumiatzi FC 0-1 SK Franz Josef City

PostPosted: Sun Apr 03, 2011 5:17 pm
by Astograth
Nerves gnawed at him. They were close, so close...

But he had to keep his poker face on. He was the Grand Duke and he had to act as much, even if it pained him. The Royal Rumiatzi scarf he had on was enough of a protocol break, and he was tense in his private box alongside FA presidents Mr. Ragnorak and Mr. Gandiaga. The match was almost over and he had to make an excruciating effort not to howl and gesture wildly like every other fan.

It had been even, very even. Chances came time and time again for either team, but Andreasson and Larretape were in brilliant form and saved many a goal. In the opening minutes Semënov had an excellent opportunity but sent his free-kick just over, while moments later Kjaer crossed for a powerful header from Skye that Ezkiaga barely blocked. Such was the theme for the next 60 minutes of play, exciting and high-paced. Two champions going head to head.

It was in the 64th minute that the match changed drastically. Fjorissen took the ball down the left flank, evaded Oteiza and crossed for Kjaer, who was in a perfect position to strike but instead chose to chip it just over the heads of both Larretape and Galindo for Timo Skye to score the opener.

The noise in the stadium had ceased, save for a small band of Franz Josef faithful. Like Soter Sarlange had silenced Nasjonale Stadion a year ago, now Timo Skye silenced Grand Duke's Stadium. The arena's namesake had, against all his instincts, clapped and smiled bitterly at Magnus Ragnorak, but now he was on the verge of his comfortable seat as Royal Rumiatzi pressed for the equalizer in stoppage time.

One goal, he thought, just one goal. But that defense! It had crushed Arambilet and Larreategi, and the amazing speed of the latter's substitute, Peli Echetore, was of no use against Berg and the young Ljungberg.

Seconds were left, and Garin Alea blasted a shot into the side netting that half the stadium thought was in. The central midfielder had been impressive in holding his ground that night, but his grit was futile as the referee blew for full time.

This time the arena didn't fall silent, as the fans chanted with all their hearts something about never leaving the team. Deep down, Aitor IV wished he could sing as well, but he shook Ragnorak's hand and took off for the podium to hand over the Ides of March Cup.

PostPosted: Tue Apr 05, 2011 5:15 pm
by Polar Islandstates
Maarten Berg cursed yet again as he was skinned, once again, by Peli Echetore. Stumbling, he put one hand on the ground to enable him to stay even vaguely upright, and he looked up as he straitened up to see young Sander Ljungberg chase down the Rumiatzi substitute and dispossess him firmly but cleanly. For the fifth time tonight, his skin had been saved by the young player, who had surely come of age tonight. Berg didn't even want to think how Oledatter must be feeling, sitting on the bench and surely watching his replacement blood himself on a big stage. Unless Berg himself was for the chop sooner rather than later of course, that would make more sense given the state of his fitness recently. Now Berg was worried. He frowned at Sander. Which thoroughly confused the youngster following his most recent heroics. Woops.

Nonetheless, Maarten was proud to be here. This was looking more and more like the third trophy since the formation of the FPIFA that he would raise for his team, raise high above his head and be the winning captain once again. His team. His team. Maarten had supported and played for the Griffons all his life. He loved this club, it was his life. He loved the fans, he loved the stadium, he loved the staff, he loved the youngsters that ran the game today, and he loved how Rumiatzi seemed not to be able to cope with the two advanced wingers and solo striker formation. He even loved that git Timo Skye, though he would never admit to that.

And right now he especially loved the faithful band of followers that had come all the way to Astograth, to finally see their heroes take a scalp on foreign soil. Finally.

Maarten looked around the stadium briefly and was happy. For a tiny second he allowed himself to stop and savour the moment. Seconds later he was on the floor, seeing Ljungberg play the ball away from Echetore once again. Woops.

PostPosted: Wed Apr 06, 2011 9:00 pm
by Erathore
It was a boring game. Actually, no it wasn't. Well it kinda was. It was boring in the sense that it was a low scoring game. It had a lot of action though, which disqualified it from being boring. Ah god he was over thinking it thought Alexio Del Nieran to himself. It was a good game. How about that? Better? Better.

The two teams played to win, that much was obvious, with Maarten Berg from Franz getting pounded by Echetore from Royal Rumiatzi. The goalkeepers Andreasson and Larretape had a wonderful match, playing so well that goalkeeping legend Marcello Dizarnio would be proud. Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on how one looked at the situation, one goalkeeper would have to fail and it was Larretape who was the unlucky winner. Actually, he didn't fail. No his defense did. His defense failed in a wonderfully terrible fashion when they allowed Fjorissen to take the ball down the left flank, the beginning of yet another attack. This time it was different as Fjorissen managed to squeak by Oteiza and continue with his run down the side, whereupon he crossed the ball to Kjaer who could've, should've, headed the ball into the net for a goal. Rather he decided to trap the ball and chip it over the heads of the defensive line, Larretape and Galindo, to Timo Skye who scored in the 64th minute.

That was the first and last goal of the game, as the remainder of the match was spent with Royal Rumiatzi trying to score and SK Franz Josef City trying to prevent them from scoring. Which they did as the match wound to an end 1-0. Whilst fans cheered and cried and did whatever it is fans did, Alexio Del Nieran made his way down, through the stands and towards the exits of the teams dressing rooms. Some fans were already there, hoping to greet their favorite players as they left the stadium. Nieran had the same thought in mind, although with a little something special thrown on. He made his way to the SK FJC team exit as he figured the Rumiatzi team would be getting yelled at for losing at home and would stay longer. As Nieran thought he heard noise from the changing room, he quickly reviewed his short list of people to talk to. Or try to at least.

    Fjorissen-Dribbling, crossing, creativity. High-mid/low-high level player. Good at mid-table team needing playmaker/tactician
    Kjaer-Assister, strong player, blank slate (Beginning player/can be molded), timid. Solid Mid w/potential to be low-high level player. Key Player at low-level club. Starter/half-starter at mid-table club.
    Skye-Amazing player, complete forward, speedster, finisher, emotionally…interesting. High Level Player. Key player anywhere. JuveMar=perfect fit.

As he thought he saw the door open and a crack of light appear, Nieran made sure he was the first person out of the assembled fans to be heard.

"Jon Kjaer, Timo Skye, and Fjorissen. My name is Alexio Del Nieran, international footballer for the Erathore National Football Squad and for FC Mildrid. If you could give me a few minutes to talk to you about certain footy opportunities in Erathore, I think you'd be happy to hear what I have to say."

PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2011 6:09 am
by Polar Islandstates
Teemu Johansson hated having his good moods spoiled. So when he heard voices outside the dressing room door, long after he thought he'd sent his players to the team bus, his heart sank. He knew what this would be.

He opened the door to find that Alexio del Nieran talking to his three creative outputs. Skye, Fjorissen and Kjaer, all stood around the guy, listening as he waffled on about this that or the other. He paused slightly as Teemu stood in the doorway, shoulders hunched up and bristling with rage.

"Look, Sunshine," he bellowed as he strode towards the group, "you just leave my players alone, alright! What do you think that was, a store-front football match?! They don't need this! They just won a competition!"

Jon Kjaer took the opportunity to turn and walk back up the tunnel, towards the team bus. He was soon followed by Fjorissen, to the satisfaction of Teemu.

"See? They're not interested! Maybe one day mate, maybe, but not today. Listen, I don't know how you do things in Erathore, but here in the Federation we like to have bids accepted before we talk to the players, and I'd call this tapping up!"

Alexio rolled his eyes at this, what he clearly thought was an outmoded way of doing things.

"Come on, Timo, we're going."

As Teemu strode back up the tunnel, he heard Timo Skye's footsteps start, and then stop again. He turned around.

"Timo!"

But Timo Skye was stood still, looking thoughtfully at the Erathore player who was now heading towards the Rumiatzi dressing room.

"Timo. Please."

Timo Skye turned around, and began walking back in the direction of the team bus, shoulder barging Johansson as he passed. Teemu's heart sank yet further.

He was losing him.

PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2011 10:35 am
by Erathore
'Well that was rather rude of him wasn't it now?' thought Alexio Del Nieran to himself, ruffling his metaphorical feathers as Teemu Johansson walked away, or whatever his name was. Despite Nieran being a relatively quiet and well mannered person, he couldn't stop himself from thinking a single word. 'Prick.' Of course Alexio couldn't hold it against him. Obviously footballing in Erathore was played to a very different tone then to that of Polar Islandstates. Having some scout or recruiter come to you after a game was no big deal in Erathore. Obviously it was in Polar.

Nieran reviewed what he had said to the three as he made his way to the other dressing room. As the three had walked towards him, with Timo Skye in the lead, Fjorissen, and Jon Kjaer at the back, who was looking around nervously.

"Thank you for decided not to treat me like some crazy guastafesta and report me to security. Anyhow, like I said before my name is Alexio Del Nieran. I currently captain FC Mildrid, who played against SK Franz Josef City in the TQCC. I also captain the Erathore National Football team, who played against Polar Islandstates recently in a friendly. But that's enough about me, as I'm pressed for time. We've been watching foreign leagues for players that pique our interest. When I say our, I mean the Erathore Football League. You three are on the list, especially you Timo. Some players from Ramutzi or however you pronounce it, are also on this list, so when we found out that you guys were playing, I was sent to check out how you guys played. Now I’m really pressed for time so down to business. There are opportunities for you three in Erathore. Seria-A clubs want you guys. Now you may want to know, why should I play in Erathore? The answer is that we have great weather, beautiful women, fast cars, and most importantly, good football. Some international talent playing in Erathore is FSSO star striker Lee Sharp, Mangolana native Tappy Shogun, and many more. Erathore has plenty of native talent as well. I recently lead the Krytenian club Avidia United to a Liga Calania championship. We set a record number of league points while doing so. And if you didn’t know, Liga Calania is made up of clubs from Krytenia, Jesselton, and Starblaydia. Yes that’s right. I went up against Iskarii Daii and won. Twice. There are opportunities. Timo Skye, Juvillian Martinax and FC Mildrid want you. Fjorissen, Vincanto wouldn’t mind adding you to their ranks. And Kjaer, Western FC would love to have you. Well look like your coach is coming. Just remember what I said. There are opportunities for you.”

And that was that. His roughly minute and a half of pitching Erathore to three international players. Now to the Ramutzi. Raymuztai. Whatever.

As he approached the door and once more saw a crack of light appear, he spoke again.
“Garin Alea, Silban Galindo, and Gaur Arambilet. My name is Alexio Del Nieran, international footballer for the Erathore National Football Squad and for FC Mildrid. If you could give me a minute to talk to you, you’d like what I have to say about your football opportunities in Erathore.”

PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2011 2:50 pm
by Astograth
Alea opened the door with a grim face, looking at the floor, consumed by his thoughts. What if he'd waited just a bit more before shooting?

He looked up when he suddenly bumped into a man wearing a white jacket bearing the logo of FC Mildrid. He was about to mumble a "sorry" when he realized who it was. No words came out of his mouth as a million questions poured into his mind. Alexio Del Nieran? The one everyone kept talking about? Here? Why?

Meanwhile, the door behind him opened and out came Arambilet and Galindo,just as surprised as he was. Del Nieran smiled and began talking quickly. Alea was stunned at the sight of one of Liga Calania's most exciting players, the star from Avidia United, and nodded automatically while the other two remained doubtful. When the Erathorian continued, Galindo interrupted him impatiently.

"Look, Del Nieran. I saw you in Chunnan, from the bench, and I respect you. You're a beast of a player. But wherever this is going, I'm not interested. I'm 31 and the captain of Royal Rumiatzi. This team is my life and I won't leave it behind. Now, excuse me."

The defender pushed past and disappeared into the night, leaving his teammates somewhat unsettled.

Del Nieran turned around, smiled, and continued. He spoke of great teams, players, stadiums and fans. Alea was enchanted, and fairly soon Arambilet ceded as well. By the time the young international was finished, they were just about ready to pack their bags and go.

"Make it happen, Alexio. If the club says yes, we'll go," they vowed.

PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2011 8:20 pm
by Erathore
'That went…better.' thought Nieran to himself as he climbed into the drivers seat of the 2500hp Dilajo Maserti supercar. He pushed the ignition button as he thought about the Ramutzaai meeting. Rayman, Rayamutzi, whatever.

Galindo hadn't surprised him with his reaction. In fact, Nieran would have been disappointed if he had reacted any differently. Still, it was worth a shot. That amount of loyalty was commendable and valuable. Especially at an Erathi club. Nieran shook his head to clear his mind of Galindo. Time to focus on Alea and Arambilet.

Nieran pulled out his cellphone and left a message on Marcello Dizarino's voicemail. Dizarino was the head of the Erathore Football League and would distribute the following information to Erathi clubs.

"Hey signore, it's me Alexio Del Nieran. I have some information on players that are definitely interested in playing footy in Erathore. Pass these notes on to Seria-A and Seria-B clubs. Timo Skye, SK Franz Josef City, Polar Islandstates national player. Plays striker, wonderful player, great finisher. Good heading, great shots, great footwork, a little emotionally unstable. Easily a hundred million dollar player. Gaur Arambilet, Royal Rumiatzi, close to national call up for Astograth. Forward, good overall player, mid level million dollar player. Garin Alea, Royal Rumiatzi, possible national player for Astograth. Center Midfield, great overall player, not afraid to take a shot if presented with the opportunity. Holds his ground. Low to mid level million dollar player. Kjaer and Fjorissen are a maybe, and Galindo is a definite no go. I have to say signore, I hope I never have to do this again. I can't do it. I feel dirty, and I feel bad for 'poaching' players. We'll talk more when I get back. Arivve signore Dizarino."

Nieran ended the call and threw the phone down onto the passenger seat and prepared to drive away in the 300mph+ car. And paused. He looked over at the phone and picked it back up. He looked around the internet and tapped some human sources before making another, very different call.

"Hello? Signore Teemu Johansson, it's me, Alexio Del Nieran. Look about earlier, with Timo and the others…I'm sorry. Things are run differently in Erathore and in Polar Islandstates. Getting talked to after a game, or tapping up as you call it, is no big deal and happens all of the time. I'm sincerely sorry for having offended you so badly. I'm really not cut out for this scouting stuff. For the Gods' sake, I'm still playing the sport! I don't know what I can offer to make this better other then me saying, and meaning, I'm sorry. Congratulations Signore on winning the Cup. Non camminerete mai da solo poichè i dei saranno sempre con voi. That phrase is one of respect in Erathore Teemu, please do not take further offense. Arivve Signore Johansson."

PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2011 9:30 pm
by Polar Islandstates
...Arivve Signore Johansson."

Teemu Johansson switched the answering machine back off again. He sat down on his hotel room bed and took his tie off. He could already hear the sounds of his players starting the party off in the bar downstairs. His earlier confrontation with Del Nieran had taken all of the "party" out of him, really, but that answering machine message had re-instilled some of that good spirit.

He probably had over-reacted a tad. Things were done differently in other countries, after all. For example, trying to get a minibar restocked seemed to take twice as long in Astograth as it did back home. He really didn't understand what all the bowing was for. But anyway, he might have phoned Del Nieran to apologise himself in a day or so, but now he knew had unsettled the guy at least a little bit. A smile re-emerged on Teemu's face. He had forgiven Alexio, partly, but why bother letting him know that? Nah, let him sweat it out.

Teemu grabbed a bottle from the minibar on the way down to the bar. Well, he had just won a trophy, after all.

PostPosted: Mon May 09, 2011 5:33 am
by Polar Islandstates
Announcement, Edition II
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PostPosted: Mon May 09, 2011 6:06 am
by Polar Islandstates
Roster
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Starting Line Up
-------------------- M Marek --------------------
- Hartmann - Helguson - N Marek(C) - Rostrov -
---------------------- Bosc ----------------------
---- Hastings ---------------------- Nichols ----
------------------- Sanderskye -------------------
---------- van Sorensen --- McClusky ----------

GK- Mathias Marek
DR- Kiki Hartmann
DC- Egor Helguson
DC- Niko Marek
DL- Enkel Rostrov
DCM- Filip Bosc
MR- Steffan Hastings
ML- Brede Nichols
AMC- Marcel Sanderskye
ST- Alexsandr van Sorensen
ST- Danny McClusky

Subs:
GK- Heimlich Poll
DC- Mikkel Hangeland
MC- Artur Rochemback
MC- Dieter Eygenroy
ST- Tomas Aer
Manager - Nicolaj Koch


Modifier: +2

Enviously, fans of Jan Mayen watched the SK troupe return home from Astograth last year with yet another piece of silverware. This year, they finally get their wishes, to compete in an Ides of March trophy. After a solid league campaign, they lifted the Federation League Divisjon One trophy for the first time, owing much of their success to national team captain Niko Marek marshalling the centre of defence, and his younger brother Mathias keeping goal. Up front, they have the mercurial talent of young Alexsandr van Sorensen, whose blistering pace and creative mind belies his mental health and synaesthesia to become a lethal attacker, often lying in wait behind traditional centre-forward McClusky to launch an attack from deep with fellow youngster Marcel Sanderskye. Providing the final piece in the jigsaw for their title winning season was Mytannar defensive midfielder Filip Bosc, who has recently signed a new contract to stay with the Islanders for a while yet. Launching attacks form deep is his speciality, and they couldn't have won the title without him, as he picked up the league's Foreigner of the Season award.

Getting a chance on the bench for the match will be teenage talents of Mikkel Hangeland, and Artur Rochemback, both coming through the youth ranks at the same time, with 18 year old Tomas Aer also patiently waiting his turn. Koch has created a young side here, one that plays attractive and attacking football, and one that we could see in this competition a fair few times yet.

Kit:
Image

Stadium:
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Nasjonale Stadion, Franz Josef City
This is the first Ides of March to be contested in Franz Josef City, and it will be the last with the current stadium, as after the World Cup Qualification has drawn to a close, the stadium will be expanded to almost twice its current capacity. Thirty thousand people still make a helluva lot of noise in this cauldron however, as Iturributa newboy Petter Bielsen will no doubt be telling his new team-mates.

PostPosted: Mon May 09, 2011 3:35 pm
by Astograth
Modifier: +2
Manager: Aiza Sein
Colours
-------------------- Sakona --------------------
- Agerre - Aginaga - Belastegi - Mendiola -
---- Dicharry ------ Bielsen -------- Barta ----
------------------- Bularte -------------------
---------- Baranzano --- Nanklares ----------

Starting XI:
GK - Edorta Sakona (C)
LB - Yuango Mendiola
CB - Leoiar Belastegi
CB - Iturri Aginaga
RB - Bayardo Agerre
LM - Zuzen Barta
CM - Petter Bielsen
RM - Eneko Dicharry
AM - Estebe Bularte
CF - Munio Baranzano
CF - Tipi Nanklares

Substitutes:
GK - Eguzki Arenaza
DF - Tartalo Maruri
DF - Aratz Beobide
MF - Gabon Echeto
MF - Berdoi Sarasketa
ST - Xanti Miner
ST - Litzar Biteri

Iturributa United go into the Ides of March Cup with high spirits after winning the title, not even a Royal Cup Final loss to cross-town rivals Sporting dampening their mood. They know that a win at Nasjonale Stadion will earn them big bragging rights over their other, empty-handed rivals, Royal Rumiatzi.

They will line up with almost exactly the same team that were champions, with the exciting youngster Zuzen Barta replacing the transfered Urdin Olibarri as left winger. Captaining the team from goal will be club legend Edorta Sakona, while national team player Yuango Mendiola will surely try to link up with Barta for devastating effect. In the centre, acting as a secondary playmaker, will be the Polar Islandstates' own Petter Bielsen, whose presence was vital throughout the season. Another key player will certainly be national team skipper Estebe Bularte, providing serenity and killer through-balls from the upper midfield. Looking to score will be the hero of past Royal Cups Munio Baranzano and the enigmatic 20 year old striker Tipi Nanklares, hailing from the southern city of Basabe and recently brought in from Athletic Club Rumiatzi.

Aiza Sein's pupils have their sights firmly set on the Ides of March Cup, determined to return the favour and crash the party at Franz Josef City.

PostPosted: Tue May 10, 2011 4:44 pm
by Polar Islandstates
IDES OF MARCH CUP
Edition II

Jan Mayen Islanders 1-3 Iturributa United

PostPosted: Tue May 10, 2011 6:00 pm
by Astograth
Tipi Nanklares dragged his feet, tired. He was having a hard time keeping up with the team's pace and hadn't played very well, but the manager apparently wanted him to get used to United's style. At Athletic he'd always been at the middle of the three strikers, having the ball served to him. Not being the team's centrepiece was new to him.

At least they were winning. Baranzano, that tricky devil, had put them in the lead early on, and they'd held it through to the second half. Hastings had then equalized for the Polarians with a carefully placed shot that left the venerable Sakona with no chance. And now, just minutes ago Bielsen had scored what was surely the winner with a booming strike. Nanklares glanced at him and confirmed that the grin on his face was still fresh.

He didn't seem affected by the atmosphere inside the Nasjonale, which to the striker was bizarre. Bielsen had told them there'd be noise, sure. Bularte, who'd captained Astograth against the Polarians, had said the pressure was immense. But Nanklares hadn't expected this.

The worst heat he'd ever felt was from South Factory and Royal Rumiatzi fans, his old club's rivals, but that was peanuts compared to this. A smaller crowd than the one that fit into The Foundry was making it impossible for him to concentrate. He could almost feel how their chants, in a language he didn't understand, were pulling him down.

Also, the cold. Not even Echegoyan was this cold, and that city was damn near freezing year-round. His hands felt numb despite the gloves, and he couldn't stop shivering. A long way from the gentle warmth of his home town.

"Basaberra!" Basabian, they called him.

He looked up to see Baranzano motioning for him to come over as Belastegi was tended for an injury. When they were side by side, the blonde forward slapped him lightly on the back.

"Wake up already, Basaberra. Get in the game," Baranzano chuckled and leaned closer, to whisper, "He doesn't show it, but I can tell Bularte's furious you're not at the top of your game. Friendly warning: the has a strong voice and doesn't stand for mediocrity."

Nanklares bit his tongue, and simply nodded. This was so unfair. But alright, he was going to try and focus. Even if it was stoppage time.

Barta took the ball down the left wing. The Basabian followed, trying to shake off his marker. Stubborn, this one was. Marek, said his shirt, and he had the captain's armband. Barta continued.

He passed to Bularte. Bularte with Sarasketa. Sarasketa with Bularte. Nanklares could almost hear the radio commentators, babbling away in their box.

Bularte shot. The keeper, whose shirt oddly also said Marek, could only parry it. Baranzano shot. The non-goalie Marek blocked it. Nanklares shot.

He could definitely hear the commentators as he ran towards the camera patting his badge.

PostPosted: Wed May 11, 2011 8:43 am
by Polar Islandstates
Nicolaj Koch sat in the centre circle, quietly contemplating the defeat. He knew how Royal Rumiatzi must have felt last season now. Losing a cup on your home turf, it's not pretty. This would go down in history as a comfortable win, too. It hardly seemed fair. On the basis of the game as a whole, Iturributa probably did deserve their win. But that third goal was a kick in the stomach and no mistake. They'd played well, thought Koch. Not brilliantly, and not a patch on that incredible day at the home of SK when they ran out 4-1 winners. But okay.

Aer hadn't exactly covered himself in glory by missing that chance for 2-1, but he'd recover. The boy was only 18. van Sorensen was in the national team already at 17, yeah, but he's a special case. Players like van Sorensen don't come around that often. Aer had time to get better, to perfect his game. Rochemback had taken his opportunity well at least. He seemed to revel in the high pace and frantic atmosphere. Leader of the future, there.

There was a swishing noise off the his left, and Koch turned around. They were taking down the banners already. Building works were starting next week, best get the place clean and tidy. All the same, seeing the purple banners come rolling down reminded Koch of that third goal going in, and the purple flags and scarves being lowered. The dream was over, disappointingly. Koch hoped the fans weren't going to get their hopes up too much for a successful TQCC campaign, even SK hadn't reached the group stages of that thing yet.

With a heave and a sigh, Koch stood up and brushed himself down. The sun was getting low, must be midnight or so. Perhaps he should go home. Glass of wine, see the dogs, kiss his wife, get some shut-eye. The transfer window was opening soon, and he was feeling optimistic that he'd find what he wanted...

PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2011 3:37 pm
by Polar Islandstates
Image

PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2011 5:21 pm
by Polar Islandstates
Roster
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Starting Line Up
----------------------- M Marek -----------------------
- Hartmann - Helguson - N Marek(C) - Rostrov -
------------------ Eygenroy -- Bosc ------------------
-- Hastings ------------------------------------ Lja --
---------------------- Aer -- Cone --------------------

GK- Mathias Marek
DR- Kiki Hartmann
DC- Egor Helguson
DC- Niko Marek (C)
DL- Enkel Rostrov
MC- Filip Bosc
MC - Dietar Eygenroy
MR- Steffan Hastings
ML- Dmitri Lja
ST- Tomas Aer
ST- Cone

Subs:
GK- Heimlich Poll
DC- Mikkel Hangeland
MC- Artur Rochemback
ML - Brede Nichols
AMC- Marcel Sanderskye
MC- Turco
ST- Danny McClusky
Manager - Nicolaj Koch


Modifier: +2

With last season's painful defeat living long in the memory, Jan Mayen's fast a furious finish to the season will be motivating them to get a result this time around. With the same opponents as last time in Iturributa United, Niko Marek will have pored over the tapes with Nicolaj Koch to see what they can gleam from their previous meetings to force a victory this time. With Polarians Petter Bielsen and Svennis Moller looking to hamper the Islander's progress, we are sure to see a tense and nervy battle this time round with the champions of our Rushmori neighbours.

With the high profile exchange with the Cafundulense league at the start of the season, it will come as no surprise to many to see a shaken-up starting line-up as opposed to last year's line up. The back five will remain exactly the same, only 4 teams conceded fewer goals in the league this time around, and the strong pairing of Marek and Helguson in the centre leaves very little opening for Hangeland to cruise on from the bench. In the midfield, Koch has tutored a considered approach from the centre of the park, with Bleak Rock captain Dietar Eygenroy and club vice-captain Mytanar Filip Bosc making the midfield an inhospitable place for the opposition. Youngsters Rochemback and the attack-minded Marcel Sanderskye are waiting on the bench to re-excite the pitch when energy levels are flagging.

Attacking down the wings will be Steffan Hastings, scorer of the Islanders' only goal in last year's final, and the new acquisition of Dmitri Lja from perennial partners-in-crime Mytannion. Lja in particular has had a magnificent first season for the Islanders, and produced nine assists from his last two appearances alone and picking up Foreign Player of the Season, an accolade that went last year to team and country-mate Bosc. Consigned to the bench will be Brede Nichols, able to come on and play down either wing.

Finally, up front is the position that saw the most moving and shaking, with van Sorensen and Cone swapping leagues, and the procession from the bench to starter for Tomas Aer, who impressed so massively for the U-21s in Starblaydia earlier this year. Cone and Aer have shifted McClusky to the bench after they made a fearsome partnership up front, scoring 40 goals between them. Cone, relatively unknown to the world after playing in the Cafundulense clubs, Cone seems to have found a fine base from which to deploy his talents, working with Aer well to terrorise defenders as part of a club that scored a frankly phenomenal 77 goals in 30 matches.

Keep your eyes peeled on this one. The players are fired up, the fans have scores to settle, and sparks will fly in Astograth.

Kit:
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PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2011 10:41 am
by Astograth
Iturributa United
Manager: Aiza Sein
Colours
-------------------- Sakona --------------------
- Agerre - Aginaga - Moller - Mendiola -
---- Gianluigi ------ Bielsen -------- Barta ----
------------------- Bularte -------------------
---------- Baranzano --- Biteri ----------

Starting XI:
GK - Edorta Sakona (C)
LB - Yuango Mendiola
CB - Svennis Moller
CB - Iturri Aginaga
RB - Bayardo Agerre
LM - Zuzen Barta
CM - Petter Bielsen
RM - Lorenzo Gianluigi
AM - Estebe Bularte
CF - Munio Baranzano
CF - Litzar Biteri

Substitutes:
GK - Eguzki Arenaza
DF - Tartalo Maruri
DF - Leoiar Belastegi
MF - Gabon Echeto
MF - Berdoi Sarasketa
ST - Xanti Miner
ST - Artizar Oidor

With last year's victory in Franz Josef City still fresh in their minds, the Scarlet Stripes won't have to travel far to witness what is sure to be another classic encounter against the same opponent. Counting on the home advantage that a packed Old City Stadium will afford, United is in a very good position to add more silverware to their trophy room.

Manager Aiza Sein is certainly taking this match seriously, as the starting lineup will be identical to the one he fielded throughout most of the season, which in turn differs only slightly from the one that triumphed at Nasjonale Stadion. Svennis Moller, a Polarian, has brought resounding success to the defense, with United only conceding 19 goals in 26 games, tied for second-lowest while playing high-risk and offensive. Up front the Erathi Gianluigi brings balance to the otherwise lopsided attacks by Barta down the left wing, while the swift loan transfer of Tipi Nanklares forced Sein to bring on Litzar Biteri. So far, he hasn't disappointed, building a good partnership with Baranzano.

Otherwise, it's the same eleven from last time. Club legend Edorta Sakona, having long left behind his failure in the national team, is as solid as ever in goal and doesn't seem to be slowing down with age. Yuango Mendiola, a constant in Gartzen Treko's call-ups, will be in charge of pairing up with the now consolidated Zuzen Barta to terrorise the left wing. Aginaga, kept on his toes all season by the young Maruri, gets another chance to play alongside Moller, while Agerre is still the right-back despite fans calling him out on being the weakest link.

Down the wings will be the aforementioned Barta and Gianluigi, with Player of the Season Petter Bielsen in charge of recovering and administering the ball in the lower midfield. Estebe Bularte, captain of the national team and by far one of the most experienced, will be acting as playmaker. Munio Baranzano and Litzar Biteri, who oddly enough finished the season off the top scorers list, round off the team.

This is quite possibly the best team the Astograthian league has ever seen. 19 wins, 4 draws and only 3 losses, for a total of 61 points, a +38 goal difference, undefeated at home...the numbers speak for themselves, but will they be enough to beat Jan Mayen Islanders?