Nova Anglicana Sports Newswire

by **Nova Anglicana** » Sat May 16, 2020 7:06 pm

NAFL Season 11

In Season 11, the big change is the introduction of the Reserve Division. Sanctuary Reserves originally played in SJG's 2nd Division, but after that collapsed, they had nowhere to play. So the NAFL formalized the Sovereign and Yeoman Division player pools into actual reserve teams with a league of their own. All the top 25 reserve teams will play in the same division, one game against each team. They will mostly play before small crowds at university venues, occasionally at their parent club's stadium.

Sovereign Division Standings

Team                         P   W   D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Newfield FC             24  19   4   1  71  15  +56  61 champions
  2 Bridgewall City FC      24  15   5   4  32   9  +23  50
  3 Archbishop FC           24  13   8   3  45  20  +25  47
  4 FC Portus               24  13   5   6  32  22  +10  44
  5 Sanctuary FC            24  14   1   9  36  34   +2  43
  6 Springs FC              24  11   8   5  36  22  +14  41
  7 Heartwood FC            24   8   6  10  33  38   -5  30
  8 Castellum FC            24   6   5  13  11  23  -12  23
  9 Vinovium United FC      24   3  12   9  16  35  -19  21
 10 Isca Town FC            24   5   6  13  21  43  -22  21
 11 FC St. Martin           24   5   5  14  27  44  -17  20
 12 Labrador United FC      24   3   6  15  19  37  -18  15
 13 Lumberjacks FC          24   3   5  16  21  58  -37  14 relegated

Newfield is on cruise control, winning their fourth consecutive championship. And this time it's in dominating fashion, winning by eleven points and scoring the most goals in NAFL history. They scored seven goals on four separate occasions, showing a goal-scoring prowess that had not been present in prior seasons. The top half of the league clearly separated themselves from the bottom, with teams 1-6 averaging 48 points, and the bottom half averaging just 24 points. Going down this year is Lumberjacks, reverting to their yo-yo tendencies. They even got their clocks cleaned 7-0 twice(!) by Newfield, a truly dismal season. They nearly avoided relegation, as Labrador finished clear of them by just one point. Labrador finished 0-1-2, while Lumberjacks went 1-1-1, but even though Labrador took it on the chin 4-2 to Heartwood on the final day, they could only tie Castellum 1-1 and head back down.

Yeoman Division Standings

Team                      P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Artisans FC              22  16  1   5  41  23  +18  49 promoted
  2 Olympique Sept-Iles      22  15  2   5  63  24  +39  47
  3 Londinium County FC      22  15  1   6  34  15  +19  46
  4 Shepherds FC             22  14  1   7  34  24  +10  43
  5 FC Mineurs               22   9  4   9  26  19   +7  31
  6 Comrades FC              22   7  8   7  31  27   +4  29
  7 Eboracum City FC         22   7  4  11  40  44   -4  25
  8 First Nations FC         22   7  3  12  25  47  -22  24
  9 Maritimes FC             22   6  5  11  18  35  -17  23
 10 Homesteaders FC          22   5  7  10  22  31   -9  22
 11 Stephenville             22   6  4  12  17  40  -23  22
 12 FC Acadia                22   3  4  15  21  43  -22  13

It's finally time for Artisans! They have never been promoted before, but finished second last year. This year, they finally made it. They even outplayed Olympique Sept-Iles, a team not accustomed to longer stays in the Yeoman Division. There was a strong top tier this year, with Artisans, Sept-Iles, County, and a resurgent Shepherds finishing top-four with 43 or more points. City and First Nations finish higher than usual, though 7th and 8th are nothing to brag about. The biggest surprise has to be Stephenville sticking around in the Yeoman Division, especially nine points clear of last-place Acadia. A 1-3-7 second half wasn't enough to sink them after a surprisingly well-played 5-1-5 first half. Fortunately for them, Acadia went 1-2-8 in the second half. FC Acadia will be slumming it in the Maritime League next year.

Third Division

Maritime League Standings

Team                            P  W   D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Kingston Town              22 10   9   3  20  10  +10  39 promotion playoff
  2 Sussex Town                22  9   8   5  18   9   +9  35
  3 Miramichi Caledonians      22 10   5   7  32  28   +4  35
  4 Saint Stephen              22  8   8   6  18  15   +3  32
  5 Edmunston Rangers          22  7  11   4  17  12   +5  32
  6 Rothesay Corinthians       22  7   9   6  22  22   +0  30
  7 Spring Hill Harriers       22  6   9   7  25  23   +2  27
  8 Acadia Caraquet            22  6   9   7  21  22   -1  27
  9 Bathurst Athletic          22  7   5  10  28  25   +3  26
 10 Riverview United           22  6   8   8  17  23   -6  26
 11 Yarmouth United            22  5   6  11  13  23  -10  21
 12 Dalhousie                  22  5   5  12  17  36  -19  20

Eastern League Standings

Team                          P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Stellarton Rovers        22  13  5   4  38  21  +17  44* promotion playoff
  2 Fishermans FC            22  14  2   6  26  13  +13  44
  3 Marystown Rovers         22   9  5   8  16  17   -1  32
  4 Port Hawkesbury          22   9  3  10  20  24   -4  30
  5 Fall River               22   8  6   8  24  19   +5  30
  6 St. Anthony              22   7  9   6  17  19   -2  30
  7 Bay Roberts              22   7  8   7  18  16   +2  29
  8 Clarenville XI           22   7  7   8  21  19   +2  28
  9 Harbour Breton           22   6  7   9  24  27   -3  25
 10 Glace Bay                22   6  6  10  17  24   -7  24
 11 AFC Truro                22   6  4  12  18  33  -15  22
 12 New Glasgow Casuals      22   4 10   8  13  20   -7  22

*Advances on H2H record: 1-1-0

The second year of Third Division promotion and relegation sees Kingston Town and Stellarton Rovers at the top, battling it out for a spot in the Yeoman Division. Unfortunately, Fishermans will have to stay in the Eastern League one more year. They won their final game to tie the Rovers, but their head-to-head record condemned them to another year in purgatory. Both Kingston and Stellarton finished third last year and are moving up.

Promotion Playoff

Stellarton Rovers 1–0 Kingston Town
Kingston Town 1–0 Stellarton Rovers (2-0 AET, 2-1 aggregate)

Kingston Town rallies in AET to take the promotion spot, which means we'll have two Third Division teams in the Yeoman Division.

Reserve Division Standings

Team                                P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Springs Reserves               24  17  2   5  51  24  +27  53
  2 Lumberjacks Reserves           24  14  5   5  45  29  +16  47
  3 Archbishop B                   24  12  7   5  44  26  +18  43
  4 Isca Town B                    24  13  4   7  36  27   +9  43
  5 Sanctuary Reserves             24  12  6   6  33  23  +10  42
  6 Bridgewall City Reserves       24  12  4   8  33  18  +15  40
  7 Heartwood Reserves             24  11  6   7  38  24  +14  39
  8 Labrador United Reserves       24   9 10   5  18  16   +2  37
  9 Comrades B                     24  11  4   9  25  18   +7  37
 10 Shepherds Reserves             24  10  6   8  39  27  +12  36
 11 Eboracum City Reserves         24  10  5   9  41  48   -7  35
 12 Newfield Reserves              24  10  5   9  31  24   +7  35
 13 Londinium County Reserves      24  10  4  10  35  43   -8  34
 14 Portus B                       24   8  9   7  19  15   +4  33
 15 Castellum B                    24   9  5  10  14  15   -1  32
 16 Vinovium United B              24   9  4  11  35  27   +8  31
 17 St. Martin B                   24   7  9   8  26  32   -6  30
 18 Olympique Sept-Iles B          24   9  3  12  42  37   +5  30
 19 Fishermans Reserves            24   8  4  12  19  27   -8  28
 20 FC Mineurs B                   24   6  7  11  17  30  -13  25
 21 Homesteaders B                 24   6  4  14  31  44  -13  22
 22 First Nations B                24   5  6  13  27  52  -25  21
 23 Artisans B                     24   4  8  12  23  45  -22  20
 24 FC Acadia B                    24   4  7  13  26  59  -33  19
 25 Maritimes Reserves             24   3  8  13  13  31  -18  17

To little fanfare, it's Springs who takes the Reserve Division crown. Maybe the biggest surprise is the 12th place finish of Newfield Reserves, or the 2nd place finish of Lumberjacks' second team. Maybe they need to swap out some players after their debacle of a Sovereign Division season.

Nova Anglican Cup

Play-in Round
Dalhousie 3–4 Yarmouth United
Yarmouth United 1–3 Dalhousie (5-6 aggregate)

Two fun games from the dregs of the Third Division! Seven goals in the first game sees Yarmouth United come out on top, but Dalhousie rallies in the second leg to move on to the first round and a date with Shepherds.

First Round
Dalhousie 1–0 Shepherds FC
Shepherds FC 4–0 Dalhousie (4-1 aggregate)

New Glasgow Casuals 0–0 FC Mineurs
FC Mineurs 1–0 New Glasgow Casuals (1-0 aggregate)

AFC Truro 0–2 Comrades FC
Comrades FC 3–2 AFC Truro (5-2 aggregate)

Glace Bay 2–1 Eboracum City FC
Eboracum City FC 1–4 Glace Bay (2-6 aggregate)

Harbour Breton 1–5 First Nations FC
First Nations FC 3–1 Harbour Breton (8-2 aggregate)

Riverview United 1–0 Maritimes FC
Maritimes FC 0–1 Riverview United (0-2 aggregate)

Bathurst Athletic 0–2 Homesteaders FC
Homesteaders FC 0–3 Bathurst Athletic (2-3 aggregate)

Acadia Caraquet 1–0 Stephenville
Stephenville 1–1 Acadia Caraquet (1-2 aggregate)

Spring Hill Harriers 2–1 FC Acadia
FC Acadia 0–0 Spring Hill Harriers (1-2 aggregate)

Clarenville XI 0–1 Stellarton Rovers
Stellarton Rovers 1–0 Clarenville XI (2-0 aggregate)

Bay Roberts 0–1 Fishermans FC
Fishermans FC 1–0 Bay Roberts (2-0 aggregate)

St. Anthony 0–1 Kingston Town
Kingston Town 0–0 St. Anthony (1-0 aggregate)

Rothesay Corinthians 1–2 Sussex Town
Sussex Town 0–0 Rothesay Corinthians (2-1 aggregate)

Fall River 3–3 Miramichi Caledonians
Miramichi Caledonians 1–0 Fall River (4-3 aggregate)

Port Hawkesbury 0–0 Saint Stephen
Saint Stephen 1–0 Port Hawkesbury (1-0 aggregate)

Marystown Rovers 1–0 Edmundston Rangers
Edmundston Rangers 0–1 Marystown Rovers (0-2 aggregate)

Several upsets in the first round, as Glace Bay takes down City in both legs, as a recent pattern of underperformance in the Cup continues. First Nations doesn't fall victim, blasting Harbour Breton in both legs, but Maritimes succumbs, unable to find any offense in a pair of 1-0 losses to Riverview. Meanwhile, Bathurst rallies from a 2-0 deficit after the first leg against Homesteaders, shutting them out 3-0 to advance. FC Acadia falls to Spring Hill Harriers, perhaps not boding well for their next season in the Third Division.

Second Round
Shepherds FC 0–2 Londinium County FC
Londinium County FC 0–4 Shepherds FC (2-4 aggregate)

FC Mineurs 0–1 Olympique Sept-Iles
Olympique Sept-Iles 1–1 FC Mineurs (2-1 aggregate)

Comrades FC 0–1 Artisans FC
Artisans FC 4–1 Comrades FC (5-1 aggregate)

Glace Bay 1–1 Lumberjacks FC
Lumberjacks FC 0–1 Glace Bay (1-2 aggregate)

First Nations FC 1–1 Labrador United FC
Labrador United FC 2–0 First Nations FC (3-1 aggregate)

Riverview United 0–1 FC St. Martin
FC St. Martin 5–4 Riverview United (6-4 aggregate)

Bathurst Athletic 2–2 Isca Town FC
Isca Town FC 1–2 Bathurst Athletic (3-4 aggregate)

Acadia Caraquet 1–2 Vinovium United FC
Vinovium United FC 2–0 Acadia Caraquet (4-1 aggregate)

Spring Hill Harriers 1–3 Castellum FC
Castellum FC 3–1 Spring Hill Harriers (6-2 aggregate)

Stellarton Rovers 0–3 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 4–1 Stellarton Rovers (7-1 aggregate)

Fishermans FC 1–5 Springs FC
Springs FC 0–0 Fishermans FC (5-1 aggregate)

Kingston Town 0–2 Sanctuary FC
Sanctuary FC 1–0 Kingston Town (3-0 aggregate)

Sussex Town 0–1 FC Portus
FC Portus 1–0 Sussex Town (2-0 aggregate)

Miramichi Caledonians 0–4 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 5–0 Miramichi Caledonians (9-0 aggregate)

Saint Stephen 0–1 Bridgewall City FC
Bridgewall City FC 1–0 Saint Stephen (2-0 aggregate)

Marystown Rovers 0–2 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 2–0 Marystown Rovers (4-0 aggregate)

Two Third Division teams take down Sovereign Division sides, but neither of them are Springs, which must come as a relief to fans terrorized by memories of the past two years. In fact, Springs faces Fishermans who, while technically a Third Division side, are more at home in the Yeoman Division, and blast them in the first leg, so they can play subs in the second leg and move on. The two Sovereign Division teams that will not be moving on are Lumberjacks, capping off a disappointing season, and Isca Town, who succumb to Bathurst in another rally from the New Brunswick side. Elsewhere, St. Martin's subs have a surprisingly difficult time with Riverview, but the top teams' subs and reserve team have little trouble with their Third Division opponents.

Round of 16
Vinovium United FC 1–1 Castellum FC
Castellum FC 0–0 Vinovium United FC (1-1 aggregate, Castellum advances on away goals)

Bathurst Athletic 0–4 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 5–0 Bathurst Athletic (9-0 aggregate)

FC St. Martin 0–7 Springs FC
Springs FC 1–1 FC St. Martin (8-1 aggregate)

Labrador United FC 1–0 Sanctuary FC
Sanctuary FC 0–0 Labrador United FC (0-1 aggregate)

Glace Bay 1–2 FC Portus
FC Portus 1–0 Glace Bay (3-1 aggregate)

Artisans FC 1–2 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 3–1 Artisans FC (5-2 aggregate)

Olympique Sept-Iles 0–1 Bridgewall City FC
Bridgewall City FC 0–1 Olympique Sept-Iles (5-1 AET, 6-1 aggregate)

Shepherds FC 1–4 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 3–1 Shepherds FC (7-2 aggregate)

Castellum advances over Vinovium in a pair of rather dull games, while Heartwood puts an end to Bathurst's unlikely run in rather rude fashion (9-0). Springs puts the wood to a St. Martin team that looks totally out of sorts in the first leg, then holds off the Horsemen in the second leg. Labrador uses defense and a lucky bounce to score a surprising advancement over Sanctuary and Portus continues to play subs against another Third Division team. Archbishop's B+ team scores two wins over Artisans, and Bridgewall's tie with Sept-Iles is hard-fought until the Pons Aelius makes it look all to easy against a discombobulated Islanders team in extra time. Meanwhile, Newfield easily handles Shepherds.

Quarterfinals
Labrador United FC 1–0 FC Portus
FC Portus 1–0 Labrador United FC (1-0 AET, 0-1 PKs)

Springs FC 0–3 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 1–0 Springs FC (4-0 aggregate)

Heartwood FC 0–1 Bridgewall City FC
Bridgewall City FC 0–1 Heartwood FC (0-3 AET, 1-3 aggregate)

Castellum FC 0–0 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 0–0 Castellum FC (0-0 AET, 1-0 PKs)

In the only quarterfinal that doesn't require extra time, Archbishop smacks Springs in the mouth in Aquae Sulis, then comes home and plays a comfortable 1-0 game. Springs really rebounded from losing to Third Division sides in the last two Cups, but they can't overcome a talented, disciplined Archbishop squad and their run ends here. Heartwood and Bridgewall trade 1-0 away wins, but Heartwood breaks down the back line in AET in Pons Aelius, and they advance to the semifinals for the second straight season, and third time overall (Season Eight). The big story has to be Labrador knocking out Portus; Portus has often seemed as though they don't take the Cup seriously, playing reserves and second-teamers well into the competition, but still advancing. They were stopped dead in their tracks, failing to put a single penalty shot past the Labrador keeper. And Castellum came so close to knocking off Newfield and ending their run of four consecutive Cup titles. They defended for 210 minutes, holding off Newfield, shot after shot, possession after possession. But they could not score in PKs and the defending champions finally broke through. You gotta have some offense to win, something Castellum perpetually seems to lack.

Semifinals
Heartwood FC 1–2 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 1–2 Heartwood FC (3-3 AET, 4-5 aggregate)

Labrador United FC 0–2 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 2–1 Labrador United FC (4-1 aggregate)

Whoof. After struggling so mightily with Castellum, Newfield looked vulnerable. But Labrador just isn't able to put up a fight, succumbing in both legs and ending their Cinderella run. It's a great achievement for them, and it might even inspire them to put some more money into the team after seeing their potential. Meanwhile, Heartwood tries their best to make it to their first final, taking a 2-1 lead into extra time, but they cannot hold off Archbishop in the extra period, giving up two goals and finishing their run. They have made the semifinal in three of the past four seasons, an incredible leap from the underachieving that usually accompanies Heartwood runs in the Cup. We will see a Newfield-Archbishop final, a good old-fashioned clash between the top two teams in the league.

Nova Anglican Cup Final
Newfield FC 2–2 Archbishop FC (3–2 AET)

A thrilling final goes into AET! For Archbishop, it was a game of counterattack, as they conceded early, but equalized before the halftime whistle. Then they trailed for most of the second half before scoring in the 88th minute to tie the match. It took both periods of extra time, but Newfield broke through in the 115th minute to score the game-winning goal and take home their fifth consecutive Cup. It was an excellent game and bodes well for the quality of play next season.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Thu May 28, 2020 7:09 pm

NAFL Season 12

In Season 12, there are no major changes to announce. A plan to introduce a domestic women's football league was in the works, but unexpected difficulties around sponsorships and grounds forced them to shelve the plan for the time being. Nova Anglicana's top women footballers will continue to play abroad for now.

Sovereign Division Standings

Team                         P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Newfield FC             24  19  5   0  60  20  +40  62
  2 FC Portus               24  15  5   4  41  16  +25  50
  3 Bridgewall City FC      24  13  6   5  26  13  +13  45
  4 Archbishop FC           24  13  4   7  43  26  +17  43
  5 Sanctuary FC            24  11  6   7  38  26  +12  39
  6 Castellum FC            24   9  6   9  18  19   -1  33
  7 Springs FC              24   8  6  10  35  44   -9  30
  8 Heartwood FC            24   9  3  12  25  32   -7  30
  9 Isca Town FC            24   8  5  11  36  37   -1  29
 10 Labrador United FC      24   7  4  13  18  29  -11  25
 11 FC St. Martin           24   6  7  11  30  49  -19  25
 12 Vinovium United FC      24   4  3  17  17  41  -24  15
 13 Artisans FC             24   2  4  18  22  57  -35  10

While they set no records for goals scored or goal differential like they did last year, Newfield cruises to a fifth straight Sovereign Division title, and by one more point than they did last year. They go undefeated and win ten of their final twelve games. The thing is, they only led by three points, 30 to 27, over Portus at the halfway point. But their 10-2-0 second half simply outpaced the defensive squad's 7-2-3 second half and they pulled away for an easy victory. Perhaps the greatest success is Castellum's 6th place finish, which is the highest they have finished in the table since season 3, when they finished 4th and played in the Globe Cup. They did it while scoring the second-fewest goals in the league. Maybe this is a good portent for their Nova Anglican Cup chances. Archbishop finishes in 4th place, but they were languishing in 8th at the halfway mark before going 9-1-2 in the second half. Had they stayed in 8th, it would have been their first-ever lower-table finish. Their current lowest mark ever was 6th, back in season 3. Meanwhile, Artisans will head back down after just a single season. They weren't the worst team at the halfway point; that dishonor belonged to Vinovium, but they scraped together a 3-2-7 second half, while Artisans went 1-1-10 to seal their fate.

Yeoman Division Standings

Team                          P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Lumberjacks FC           22  15  4   3  34  14  +20  49* promoted
  2 Olympique Sept-Iles      22  14  7   1  55  14  +41  49
  3 Londinium County FC      22  12  3   7  42  29  +13  39
  4 Homesteaders FC          22  10  5   7  25  25   +0  35
  5 Comrades FC              22  10  4   8  28  24   +4  34
  6 Maritimes FC             22   9  6   7  29  32   -3  33
  7 Shepherds FC             22   7 10   5  26  25   +1  31
  8 FC Mineurs               22   7  4  11  24  31   -7  25
  9 First Nations FC         22   5  6  11  21  40  -19  21
 10 Eboracum City FC         22   4  8  10  25  29   -4  20
 11 Stephenville             22   5  2  15  28  55  -27  17
 12 Kingston Town            22   1  7  14   5  24  -19  10 relegated

*Lumberjacks advances on H2H record (1-1-0)

Lumberjacks added some players from their reserve squad, and two of them made a big impact right away. GK Jamie Roberts won the starting job after a 58-goal season last year caused manager Eric Ramsey to declare an open competition in training camp. He helped limit Lumberjacks' opponents to 0.64 goals/match. Striker Garrett Burke emerged as a key substitute and then starter, scoring eleven goals in his mix of starter and reserve action. Although they tied Olympique on points, their 4-2 win at Sept-Iles in the second game of the season helped give them the head-to-head advantage and earn the promotion back to the Sovereign Division. Their next challenge will be seeing if they can stay up.

For Olympique, it was a bitter disappointment. They won their final seven games by a combined score of 30-2, but Lumberjacks held the lead or kept pace on every one of those matchdays. They will have to try again next year. Stephenville fell back a bit this year, but avoided relegation thanks to the extreme futility of Kingston Town, who could only manage to score 5 goals, a new Yeoman Division low. Kingston will have to hope for some glory in the Cup and try to win their way back next year. They'll need reinforcements if they do make it.

Third Division

Maritime League Standings

Team                            P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 FC Acadia                  22  11  7   4  24  14  +10  40 promotion playoff
  2 Sussex Town                22   8  9   5  24  15   +9  33
  3 Miramichi Caledonians      22   9  6   7  28  32   -4  33
  4 Riverview United           22   9  5   8  36  24  +12  32
  5 Saint Stephen              22   7 10   5  19  18   +1  31
  6 Rothesay Corinthians       22   8  7   7  20  20   +0  31
  7 Yarmouth United            22   8  6   8  19  20   -1  30
  8 Acadia Caraquet            22   8  6   8  19  18   +1  30
  9 Edmunston Rangers          22   8  2  12  14  18   -4  26
 10 Bathurst Athletic          22   6  7   9  24  29   -5  25
 11 Spring Hill Harriers       22   6  7   9  20  31  -11  25
 12 Dalhousie                  22   5  6  11  30  38   -8  21

Eastern League Standings

Team                          P   W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Fishermans FC            22  12  4  6  29  16  +13  40 promotion playoff
  2 New Glasgow Casuals      22  11  5  6  18  15   +3  38
  3 Bay Roberts              22   9  9  4  18  11   +7  36
  4 Stellarton Rovers        22  10  5  7  37  25  +12  35
  5 Harbour Breton           22   7  8  7  29  26   +3  29
  6 AFC Truro                22   7  6  9  18  22   -4  27
  7 Glace Bay                22   6  9  7  15  16   -1  27
  8 Port Hawkesbury          22   7  6  9  20  21   -1  27
  9 Clarenville XI           22   7  6  9  19  19   +0  27
 10 Fall River               22   6  8  8  19  32  -13  26
 11 St. Anthony              22   5  7 10  20  30  -10  22
 12 Marystown Rovers         22   4  9  9  16  25   -9  21

Things are starting to get back to normal, as Acadia and Fishermans both top their respective leagues. Acadia won their league going away, but Fishermans' loss on the final day opened the door for New Glasgow Casuals to steal the playoff spot. Fortunately for the Londinium club, St. Anthony took down New Glasgow and Fishermans will advance. Unfortunately, only one team will move up; the other will spend another year in the Third Division.

Promotion Playoff

FC Acadia 1–0 Fishermans FC
Fishermans FC 0–1 FC Acadia (0-2 aggregate)

It's heartbreak for the blue-collar Fishermans club in the promotion playoff, as the boys from New Brunswick take both legs. As Fishermans contemplates a third straight year in the Third Division, there is talk of selling off the good players for revenue, as it has dropped during their stay in the Third Division. The ownership group is skittish and looking to sell as well.

Reserve Division Standings

Team                                P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Newfield Reserves              24  18  2   4  47  15  +32  56
  2 Heartwood Reserves             24  11  9   4  33  20  +13  42
  3 Archbishop B                   24  13  3   8  43  28  +15  42
  4 Isca Town B                    24  11  9   4  31  19  +12  42
  5 Sanctuary Reserves             24  11  9   4  31  18  +13  42
  6 Vinovium United B              24  11  8   5  31  23   +8  41
  7 Portus B                       24  11  6   7  29  23   +6  39
  8 Bridgewall City Reserves       24  11  6   7  28  22   +6  39
  9 Lumberjacks Reserves           24  10  6   8  27  29   -2  36
 10 Castellum B                    24   9  9   6  25  20   +5  36
 11 Springs Reserves               24   9  7   8  31  34   -3  34
 12 Maritimes Reserves             24   8  8   8  19  20   -1  32
 13 Shepherds Reserves             24  10  2  12  30  28   +2  32
 14 Comrades B                     24   9  4  11  24  23   +1  31
 15 St. Martin B                   24   7 10   7  26  25   +1  31
 16 Londinium County Reserves      24   9  3  12  25  25   +0  30
 17 Olympique Sept-Iles B          24   8  6  10  33  33   +0  30
 18 Homesteaders B                 24   8  5  11  27  38  -11  29
 19 Labrador United Reserves       24   8  5  11  20  25   -5  29
 20 Fishermans Reserves            24   8  3  13  15  24   -9  27
 21 FC Acadia B                    24   8  3  13  22  42  -20  27
 22 FC Mineurs B                   24   5  9  10  19  23   -4  24
 23 Artisans B                     24   5  7  12  17  27  -10  22
 24 Eboracum City Reserves         24   4  5  15  25  48  -23  17
 25 First Nations B                24   4  4  16  26  52  -26  16

Newfield outpaces the rest of the reserves, while Lumberjacks falls back from previous seasons due to some players joining the top-level squad. City and First Nations don't have any hopes of improving the team by plucking some players from their reserve squad, it looks like.

Nova Anglican Cup

Play-in Round
Marystown Rovers 1–1 Dalhousie
Dalhousie 1–1 Marystown Rovers (2-1 AET, 3-2 aggregate)

Dalhousie finds themselves in the play-in round again and triumphes once again, scoring a goal at home in extra time to move on to face Homesteaders.

First Round
Dalhousie 0–4 Homesteaders FC
Homesteaders FC 1–2 Dalhousie (5-2 aggregate)

St. Anthony 3–6 Comrades FC
Comrades FC 0–0 St. Anthony (6-3 aggregate)

Spring Hill Harriers 0–0 Maritimes FC
Maritimes FC 0–0 Spring Hill Harriers (1-0 AET, 1-0 aggregate)

Bathurst Athletic 2–0 Shepherds FC
Shepherds FC 1–1 Bathurst Athletic (1-3 aggregate)

Fall River 0–0 FC Mineurs
FC Mineurs 1–0 Fall River (1-0 aggregate)

Edmundston Rangers 2–1 First Nations FC
First Nations FC 0–1 Edmundston Rangers (1-3 aggregate)

Clarenville XI 2–0 Eboracum City FC
Eboracum City FC 2–1 Clarenville XI (2-3 aggregate)

Port Hawkesbury 0–0 Stephenville
Stephenville 3–1 Port Hawkesbury (3-1 aggregate)

Glace Bay 1–0 Kingston Town
Kingston Town 1–0 Glace Bay (1-0 AET, 1-0 PKs)

AFC Truro 0–2 Fishermans FC
Fishermans FC 2–1 AFC Truro (4-1 aggregate)

Harbour Breton 2–4 FC Acadia
FC Acadia 1–1 Harbour Breton (5-3 aggregate)

Acadia Caraquet 1–0 New Glasgow Casuals
New Glasgow Casuals 0–1 Acadia Caraquet (0-2 aggregate)

Yarmouth United 1–0 Bay Roberts 
Bay Roberts 1–1 Yarmouth United (1-2 aggregate)

Rothesay Corinthians 3–1 Stellarton Rovers
Stellarton Rovers 1–1 Rothesay Corinthians (2-4 aggregate)

Saint Stephen 0–1 Sussex Town
Sussex Town 1–0 Saint Stephen (2-0 aggregate)

Riverview United 1–1 Miramichi Caledonians
Miramichi Caledonians 3–0 Riverview United (4-1 aggregate)

Bathurst, Edmundston, and Clarenville go headhunting in the first round, taking down Shepherds, First Nations, and City respectively. While Edmundston took both legs, Bathurst and Clarenville's 2-0 wins in the first leg were too much to overcome. Kingston Town escapes Glace Bay on PKs, while Stephenville turns it on in the second leg to win 3-1 and move on. In an exciting Third Division matchup, Miramichi Caledonians blasts Riverview United in the second leg to advance.

Second Round
Homesteaders FC 2–0 Londinium County FC
Londinium County FC 2–0 Homesteaders FC (4-0 AET, 4-2 aggregate)

Comrades FC 2–2 Olympique Sept-Iles
Olympique Sept-Iles 5–1 Comrades FC (7-3 aggregate)

Maritimes FC 1–5 Lumberjacks FC
Lumberjacks FC 0–0 Maritimes FC (5-1 aggregate)

Bathurst Athletic 0–0 Artisans FC
Artisans FC 1–0 Bathurst Athletic (1-0 aggregate)

FC Mineurs 1–2 Vinovium United FC
Vinovium United FC 1–0 FC Mineurs (3-1 aggregate)

Edmundston Rangers 1–0 FC St. Martin
FC St. Martin 0–1 Edmundston Rangers (2-0 aggregate)

Clarenville XI 0–0 Labrador United FC
Labrador United FC 2–1 Clarenville XI (2-1 aggregate)

Stephenville 4–4 Isca Town FC
Isca Town FC 4–0 Stephenville (8-4 aggregate)

Kingston Town 1–0 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 1–0 Kingston Town (2-0 AET, 2-1 aggregate)

Fishermans FC 0–4 Springs FC
Springs FC 0–1 Fishermans FC (4-1 aggregate)

FC Acadia 0–1 Castellum FC
Castellum FC 0–1 FC Acadia (0-1 AET, 1-0 PKs)

Acadia Caraquet 0–3 Sanctuary FC
Sanctuary FC 7–0 Acadia Caraquet (10-0 aggregate)

Yarmouth United 1–5 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 6–0 Yarmouth United (11-1 aggregate)

Rothesay Corinthians 0–1 Bridgewall City FC
Bridgewall City FC 1–0 Rothesay Corinthians (2-0 aggregate)

Sussex Town 0–1 FC Portus
FC Portus 1–0 Sussex Town (2-0 aggregate)

Miramichi Caledonians 0–2 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 4–1 Miramichi Caledonians (6-1 aggregate)

This year marks the fourth consecutive year in which a Sovereign Division team has succumbed to a Third Division team in the second round, with St. Martin joining the club, losing both legs in a surprisingly uninspired performance from subs and reserves. Meanwhile, County and Homesteaders trade 2-0 wins before County tacks on two more in AET to advance and Sept-Iles and Lumberjacks notch 5-1 wins that secure their advancement. Labrador needs a second-leg win to move on; can they replicate their semifinal run of last year? Isca Town blasts Stephenville after some leaky defense in the first leg, Heartwood and Castellum need AET to take care of Kingston Town and FC Acadia, respectively, and the top teams have little trouble with their Third Division opponents, including Sanctuary and Archbishop's double-digit goal totals.

Round of 16
Isca Town FC 1–5 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 2–1 Isca Town FC (7-2 aggregate)

Labrador United FC 0–1 Springs FC
Springs FC 0–1 Labrador United FC (2-1 AET, 3-1 aggregate)

Edmundston Rangers 0–1 Castellum FC
Castellum FC 1–0 Edmundston Rangers (2-0 aggregate)

Vinovium United FC 0–2 Sanctuary FC
Sanctuary FC 1–0 Vinovium United FC (3-0 aggregate)

Artisans FC 1–4 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 3–0 Artisans FC (7-1 aggregate)

Lumberjacks FC 0–1 Bridgewall City FC
Bridgewall City FC 2–0 Lumberjacks FC (3-0 aggregate)

Olympique Sept-Iles 1–3 FC Portus
FC Portus 0–1 Olympique Sept-Iles (2-3 aggregate)

Londinium County FC 1–2 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 5–1 Londinium County FC (7-2 aggregate)

Newfield and Heartwood bookend the Round of 16 with identical 7-2 aggregate victories, while Sanctuary and Bridgewall turn in identical, workmanlike 3-0 aggregate victories over Vinovium and Lumberjacks, respectively. Archbishop blasts Artisans in two games, showing no inclination to play the subs in this round, and Castellum defeats Edmunston Rangers 1-0 in both legs, which for two teams that play as defensively as those two, almost constitute routs. Meanwhile, the two most exciting games come from Portus and Springs. Portus finally plays their starters and runs out to a 3-1 win on the road, then drops back into a defensive shell at home to preserve their advancement despite a 1-0 loss to Olympique. As for Springs, they put an end to Labrador's chances by rallying from a 1-0 deficit in AET to actually win both legs, getting a spectacular bicycle kick goal to tie the game and a breakaway counterattack to really sink their opponents. With all eight top seeds advancing, this marks the first time since season 2 that this has occurred.

Quarterfinals
4-5
Sanctuary FC 0–1 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 0–2 Sanctuary FC (1-2 aggregate)

Castellum FC 0–0 Bridgewall City FC
Bridgewall City FC 0–0 Castellum FC (1-0 AET, 1-0 aggregate)

Springs FC 0–3 FC Portus
FC Portus 4–0 Springs FC (7-0 aggregate)

Heartwood FC 2–3 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 0–0 Heartwood FC (3-2 aggregate)

In the 4-5 quarterfinal, the teams traded away wins, but Sanctuary rallied in the second leg to advance, getting an 87th minute goal to go up 2-0 and take the lead on aggregate. Bridgewall and Castellum needed extra time, probably unsurprising considering the conservative proclivities of both of those teams, but Bridgewall finally breaks through in extra time to advance. Portus puts the wood to Springs, routing them 3-0 on their own home turf before taking advantage of their disheartened state to dismantle them on the return leg. This is a rivalry game, and the Springs fans in attendance booed their boys off the pitch in Portus Abonae. Finally, Newfield needed an goal in added time to escape Eboracum with a win in the first leg, but plays a marvelous defensive game in Noviomagus to preserve their advancement.

Semifinals
Bridgewall City FC 0–0 FC Portus
FC Portus 1–0 Bridgewall City FC (1-0 aggregate)

Sanctuary FC 0–1 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 2–0 Sanctuary FC (3-0 aggregate)

Two more defensive sides, Bridgewall and Portus, clash and it takes all 180 minutes before Portus scores in added time, on a ball that deflected off Bridgewall's centre-back, crushing Bridgewall's hopes in devastating fashion. Meanwhile, Newfield scores early and sits on their lead in Rutupiae, then comes home and eases by Sanctuary to make their sixth straight Cup final. They have won their previous five, and the last time there was a non-Newfield Cup champion, Newfield did not appear in the final, back in season 6. The only time they have made the final and lost was back in season 2, to Archbishop. This gives them an 8-1 record in taking home the Cup, and they want so bad to make 9-1.

Nova Anglican Cup Final
Newfield FC 1–1 FC Portus (2–2 AET, 4-2 PKs)

For the second straight year, the Cup final goes in AET, and this time it even goes into PKs. But for the second straight year after regulation, the sixth straight year, and the ninth time in ten appearances, Newfield claims the title. Portus put up a brave fight, trying to sit on a lead in regulation before conceding and rallying to tie the game in AET, but they couldn't survive two missed penalties, as Newfield's players aimed with deadly precision, hitting on all four of their PK attempts. It's getting closer, but Newfield still rules the roost.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Sun Jun 07, 2020 7:41 pm

NAFL Season 13

In Season 13, there is a big change for this year and a big change announced for next year! This year, to coincide with Season 13 and to equalize the number of clubs in the Sovereign and Yeoman Divisions, a new club will begin play in the Yeoman Division: FC Grande Vitesse! Meaning "high-speed" in French, this club will be based in the semi-bilingual city of Noviomagus and is named after the high-speed rail that is connecting Noviomagus to Vinovium and Durovernum Cantiacorum. This gives Noviomagus two teams, Newfield and Grande Vitesse. The big change for next year is the formalization of the Academy Division and Cup. Most, if not all, of the top two tiers of Nova Anglican football have academy or youth programs. This will formalize those programs by requiring every team to have a youth program and for there to be regular competition. The ultimate goal is competition in the IFCF's Rising Stars' Cup.

Sovereign Division Standings

Team                         P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Newfield FC             24  17  4   3  59  18  +41  55 champions
  2 Archbishop FC           24  14  7   3  54  24  +30  49
  3 Heartwood FC            24  14  4   6  39  22  +17  46
  4 Castellum FC            24  10  7   7  18  16   +2  37
  5 Springs FC              24  11  4   9  31  31   +0  37
  6 Bridgewall City FC      24   9  7   8  17  16   +1  34
  7 FC Portus               24   8  6  10  25  22   +3  30
  8 Sanctuary FC            24   8  6  10  25  27   -2  30
  9 Vinovium United FC      24   7  7  10  21  37  -16  28
 10 Labrador United FC      24   7  5  12  18  29  -11  26
 11 FC St. Martin           24   6  5  13  24  49  -25  23
 12 Lumberjacks FC          24   5  7  12  24  40  -16  22
 13 Isca Town FC            24   4  3  17  13  37  -24  15 relegated

Well, it was closer than last year. Instead of winning by twelve points like last year or eleven points like the year before, Newfield has their closest championship since season 10, winning by "only" six points. Still, it's their sixth consecutive Sovereign Division title, which has left the NAFL wondering what they can do to inject some competition back in the league. It's not like Newfield is outspending everyone or cheating in any particular way; they just happen to be better. The reality is, until Newfield slips up on its own or some team gets a lot better, there isn't much the NAFL can do to make things more competitive.

Archbishop finishes second, while Heartwood is only three points behind them. For Heartwood, it's a massive improvement over 7th, 7th, and 8th the past three years. Another team that really improves is Castellum; 37 points from 24 games and only 18 goals may not sound impressive, but it's good enough for a tie for 4th, their best finish in the last four seasons (8th, 8th, 6th). Meanwhile, Portus and Sanctuary slipped to 7th and 8th, the lowest finish for each in the last four seasons. Lumberjacks doesn't have a great season, but they do avoid relegation; that fate falls to Isca Town. This will be their third relegation in recent history, and first since season 8.

Yeoman Division Standings

Team                          P   W   D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Olympique Sept-Iles      24  17   6   1  72  22  +50  57 promoted
  2 Comrades FC              24  12   4   8  43  28  +15  40
  3 Shepherds FC             24  12   4   8  33  26   +7  40
  4 FC Acadia                24  12   3   9  24  21   +3  39
  5 FC Mineurs               24   8  11   5  27  24   +3  35
  6 Homesteaders FC          24  10   4  10  35  30   +5  34
  7 Londinium County FC      24   8  10   6  36  29   +7  34
  8 Maritimes FC             24   8   8   8  42  40   +2  32
  9 Eboracum City FC         24   8   8   8  27  37  -10  32
 10 First Nations FC         24   6   5  13  30  49  -19  23
 11 Artisans FC              24   4  10  10  30  45  -15  22
 12 FC Gránde Vitesse        24   4  10  10  30  44  -14  22
 13 Stephenville             24   3   5  16  26  60  -34  14 relegated

Goodness gracious me, what a season from Olympique! Not only did they score 72 goals, the largest of any team at any level in the NAFL in history, they did not lose in their first 22 matches. They entered their 23rd game at 17-5-0 before falling 4-2 to Homesteaders in Sept-Iles, a disappointing end for fans who would have loved to see an undefeated season. But nevertheless, they dominated the Yeoman Division and are moving back up to the Sovereign Division, which they are very happy about. As for Gránde Vitesse, it wasn't quite the season they'd hoped, as they were tied for 11th. On the bright side, they did avoid relegation by eight points. It would have been embarrassing for the club and the NAFL if this expansion franchise was relegated in their first season. They started off their NAFL history with a pair of 0-0 draws, but found their stride in their fourth game with a 3-1 road win against Stephenville. They will look to improve and compete in the next couple of seasons.

As for the rest of the league, Comrades, Shepherds, and Acadia had nice seasons, finishing within one point of each other near the top. It was a disappointing season for Londinium County; tied for 6th is their worst finish ever. They'd never finished lower than 4th. While Eboracum City had a good season by their standards, Artisans seemingly let their drop down from their first-ever Sovereign Division season affect them too much, as they managed only four wins and tied with Gránde Vitesse for 11th place. Stephenville finally ran out of luck; their three-season stay in the Yeoman Division ends here and they will head to the Third Division. However, since Stephenville was originally in the Eastern League and isn't a rich club, they will head back to the Eastern League and Fishermans will compete in the Maritime League for logistical reasons.

Third Division

Maritime League Standings

Team                            P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Dalhousie                  22  13  3   6  36  20  +16  42 promotion playoff
  2 Kingston Town              22  10  6   6  19  13   +6  36
  3 Spring Hill Harriers       22  11  0  11  40  35   +5  33
  4 Riverview United           22   9  5   8  20  26   -6  32
  5 Miramichi Caledonians      22   8  7   7  26  26   +0  31
  6 Sussex Town                22   8  6   8  18  15   +3  30
  7 Saint Stephen              22   8  6   8  21  19   +2  30
  8 Edmunston Rangers          22   8  5   9  16  20   -4  29
  9 Yarmouth United            22   7  8   7  24  21   +3  29
 10 Rothesay Corinthians       22   7  6   9  21  27   -6  27
 11 Bathurst Athletic          22   8  2  12  23  30   -7  26
 12 Acadia Caraquet            22   5  6  11  13  25  -12  21

Eastern League Standings

Team                          P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Fishermans FC            22  11  7   4  27  11  +16  40 promotion playoff
  2 Marystown Rovers         22  10  7   5  24  18   +6  37
  3 New Glasgow Casuals      22  10  7   5  21  14   +7  37
  4 Clarenville XI           22   9  9   4  25  16   +9  36
  5 Glace Bay                22   8  6   8  15  18   -3  30
  6 St. Anthony              22   7  8   7  20  17   +3  29
  7 Fall River               22   8  4  10  27  31   -4  28
  8 Stellarton Rovers        22   7  6   9  24  24   +0  27
  9 Port Hawkesbury          22   7  4  11  22  24   -2  25
 10 Bay Roberts              22   6  6  10  15  24   -9  24
 11 Harbour Breton           22   6  5  11  25  37  -12  23
 12 AFC Truro                22   5  7  10  17  28  -11  22

In the Maritime League, big surprise as Dalhousie goes from worst to first, beating the rest of the league by six points. It just goes to show the volatility of the Third Division; even though Kingston Town finished second a year after coming down from the Yeoman Division, Dalhousie rocketed up the standings and Spring Hill Harriers went from 11th to 3rd. Over in the Eastern League, Fishermans led Marystown Rovers and New Glasgow Casuals 37 points to 36 going into the last day. A win would secure their spot in the promotion playoff, and that's exactly what happened. While Marystown and New Glasgow were tying their opponents, Fishermans was exploding for three goals against lowly Harbour Breton. They rode stifling defense and just enough offense to their second consecutive Eastern League Crown, but everything depends on the promotion playoff.

Promotion Playoff

Fishermans FC 2–1 Dalhousie
Dalhousie 1–0 Fishermans FC (2-2 aggregate, Dalhousie advances on away goals rule)

They were this close. Fishermans had taken the first leg at home, now they just needed to lose by less than two goals and score a goal (or anything better) to advance. They only lost by one goal, but in failing to score, they let Dalhousie come level on aggregate and the Millers' lone away goal allowed them to advance. With this defeat, Fishermans' next season in the Third Division will be their fourth consecutive one. The ownership group, plagued by low revenues since the drop, announced their intention to sell the team and are actively seeking bidders.

Reserve Division Standings

Team                                P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Archbishop B                   25  16  4   5  51  19  +32  52
  2 Sanctuary Reserves             25  15  6   4  48  20  +28  51
  3 St. Martin B                   25  14  5   6  52  32  +20  47
  4 Bridgewall City Reserves       25  14  5   6  40  19  +21  47
  5 Labrador United Reserves       25  12 10   3  34  18  +16  46
  6 Springs Reserves               25  14  4   7  48  34  +14  46
  7 Portus B                       25  12  8   5  30  20  +10  44
  8 Heartwood Reserves             25  11 10   4  41  28  +13  43
  9 Newfield Reserves              25  12  6   7  37  31   +6  42
 10 Isca Town B                    25  11  5   9  34  31   +3  38
 11 Comrades B                     25   9 10   6  29  24   +5  37
 12 Grande Vitesse B               25  11  4  10  38  38   +0  37
 13 Castellum B                    25   9  9   7  31  23   +8  36
 14 Londinium County Reserves      25   9  8   8  32  36   -4  35
 15 Lumberjacks Reserves           25  10  3  12  36  34   +2  33
 16 Olympique Sept-Iles B          25   8  8   9  35  41   -6  32
 17 Vinovium United B              25   9  5  11  32  35   -3  32
 18 Shepherds Reserves             25   7  8  10  25  26   -1  29
 19 Maritimes Reserves             25   7  8  10  19  28   -9  29
 20 Artisans B                     25   7  7  11  29  44  -15  28
 21 FC Acadia B                    25   6  4  15  24  42  -18  22
 22 First Nations B                25   5  4  16  36  60  -24  19
 23 Homesteaders B                 25   4  7  14  19  45  -26  19
 24 FC Mineurs B                   25   5  3  17  17  33  -16  18
 25 Eboracum City Reserves         25   4  5  16  20  52  -32  17
 26 Fishermans Reserves            25   3  6  16  15  39  -24  15

It's Archbishop's turn to win the Reserve Division, this time by a hairs' breadth over Sanctuary Reserves. Gránde Vitesse makes a fair debut with their reserve team, finishing in the top half and outpacing a couple of Sovereign Division's second teams. They've got decent depth if nothing else. Fishermans' reserves look to be no help in the battle to improve the team.

Nova Anglican Cup

Play-in Round
Acadia Caraquet 1–0 Bay Roberts 
Bay Roberts 0–1 Acadia Caraquet (0-2 aggregate)

AFC Truro 0–0 Harbour Breton
Harbour Breton 5–5 AFC Truro (5-5 aggregate, AFC Truro advances on away goals rule)

With 50 teams again, the Cup is back to two play-in rounds. In the 47-50 matchup, last-placed Acadia Caraquet takes both legs from Bay Roberts. They will square off against FC Acadia in a little local rivalry. As for the 48-49 matchup, it was a pretty dull first leg in Truro, but the second leg in Harbour Breton saw 10(!) goals scored and the lower seed advancing. What a turnaround from the first game.

First Round
Acadia Caraquet 1–2 FC Acadia
FC Acadia 0–3 Acadia Caraquet (2-4 aggregate)

AFC Truro 0–1 FC Mineurs
FC Mineurs 0–0 AFC Truro (1-0 aggregate)

Port Hawkesbury 0–1 Homesteaders FC
Homesteaders FC 2–2 Port Hawkesbury (3-2 aggregate)

Bathurst Athletic 0–0 Londinium County FC
Londinium County FC 1–0 Bathurst Athletic (1-0 aggregate)

Rothesay Corinthians 3–2 Maritimes FC
Maritimes FC 4–1 Rothesay Corinthians (6-4 aggregate)

Stellarton Rovers 3–0 Eboracum City FC
Eboracum City FC 2–0 Stellarton Rovers (2-3 aggregate)

Fall River 0–1 First Nations FC
First Nations FC 1–1 Fall River (2-1 aggregate)

Yarmouth United 0–3 Artisans FC
Artisans FC 0–1 Yarmouth United (3-1 aggregate)

Edmundston Rangers 1–0 FC Gránde Vitesse
FC Gránde Vitesse 0–0 Edmundston Rangers (0-1 aggregate)

St. Anthony 4–0 Stephenville
Stephenville 1–2 St. Anthony (1-6 aggregate)

Glace Bay 1–2 Dalhousie
Dalhousie 0–1 Glace Bay (2-2 aggregate, Dalhousie advances on away goals rule)

Saint Stephen 0–1 Fishermans FC
Fishermans FC 1–0 Saint Stephen (2-0 aggregate)

Sussex Town 0–0 Marystown Rovers
Marystown Rovers 0–1 Sussex Town (0-1 aggregate)

Miramichi Caledonians 2–3 New Glasgow Casuals
New Glasgow Casuals 1–0 Miramichi Caledonians (4-2 aggregate)

Riverview United 0–0 Clarenville XI
Clarenville XI 0–1 Riverview United (0-1 aggregate)

Spring Hill Harriers 2–1 Kingston Town
Kingston Town 1–0 Spring Hill Harriers (2-2 aggregate, Kingston Town advances on away goals rule)

Three Yeoman Division teams go down in the first round: FC Acadia, Eboracum City, and Gránde Vitesse. For Acadia, it was a shock in the second leg as their hard-won victory in the first leg is undone in an ugly 3-0 defeat in front of the home fans. For City, a solid 2-0 home win wasn't enough to overcome a shock 3-0 defeat in the first leg against Stellarton Rovers. And lastly, Gránde Vitesse can't muster any offense against Edmunston Rangers. Not the way they wanted to start their Cup journey.

Second Round
Acadia Caraquet 0–1 Shepherds FC
Shepherds FC 1–2 Acadia Caraquet (2-2 aggregate, Acadia Caraquet advances on away goals rule)

FC Mineurs 3–0 Comrades FC
Comrades FC 1–0 FC Mineurs (1-3 aggregate)

Homesteaders FC 2–2 Olympique Sept-Iles
Olympique Sept-Iles 0–2 Homesteaders FC (2-4 aggregate)

Londinium County FC 0–2 Isca Town FC
Isca Town FC 1–1 Londinium County FC (3-1 aggregate)

Maritimes FC 0–0 Lumberjacks FC
Lumberjacks FC 4–0 Maritimes FC (4-0 aggregate)

Stellarton Rovers 0–6 FC St. Martin
FC St. Martin 3–1 Stellarton Rovers (9-1 aggregate)

First Nations FC 0–2 Labrador United FC
Labrador United FC 2–0 First Nations FC (4-0 aggregate)

Artisans FC 1–1 Vinovium United FC
Vinovium United FC 5–1 Artisans FC (6-2 aggregate)

Edmundston Rangers 0–1 Sanctuary FC
Sanctuary FC 2–0 Edmundston Rangers (3-0 aggregate)

St. Anthony 0–4 FC Portus
FC Portus 1–0 St. Anthony (5-0 aggregate)

Dalhousie 1–5 Bridgewall City FC
Bridgewall City FC 2–0 Dalhousie (7-1 aggregate)

Fishermans FC 0–0 Springs FC
Springs FC 2–0 Fishermans FC (2-0 aggregate)

Sussex Town 0–0 Castellum FC
Castellum FC 1–0 Sussex Town (1-0 aggregate)

New Glasgow Casuals 0–4 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 1–0 New Glasgow Casuals (5-0 aggregate)

Riverview United 2–4 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 4–0 Riverview United (8-2 aggregate)

Kingston Town 0–1 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 4–0 Kingston Town (5-0 aggregate)

This is the first year in the last five that a Third Division team has not defeated a Sovereign Division team in the Cup. But it doesn't mean we don't see intriguing games. Acadia Caraquet, the bottom seed who scored just 13 goals in 22 games in Maritime League play, defeats its second straight Yeoman Division side with a road win in the second leg, fighting all the way from the play-in round to the Round of 16. Homesteaders and Sept-Iles clash again, meanwhile. Homesteaders handed Sept-Iles their only defeat in Yeoman Division play this year, and they did it again, again defeating the Quebeçois side in Sept-Iles and securing advancement to the Round of 16. They were booed mercilessly after the game, but they'll be the ones moving on. St. Martin put six by Stellarton Rovers in the road leg, normally goal-shy Bridgewall City scored five against Dalhousie, and Vinovium United routs Artisans 5-1 in the second leg to move on. Most top-half Sovereign Division teams have little trouble with their Third Division opponents.

Round of 16
Vinovium United FC 2–1 Sanctuary FC
Sanctuary FC 4–2 Vinovium United FC (5-4 aggregate)

Labrador United FC 0–1 FC Portus
FC Portus 1–0 Labrador United FC (2-0 aggregate)

FC St. Martin 2–2 Bridgewall City FC
Bridgewall City FC 0–0 FC St. Martin (2-2 aggregate, Bridgewall City advances on away goals rule)

Lumberjacks FC 4–1 Springs FC
Springs FC 4–4 Lumberjacks FC (5-8 aggregate)

Isca Town FC 1–1 Castellum FC
Castellum FC 0–0 Isca Town FC (1-1 aggregate, Castellum advances on away goals rule)

Homesteaders FC 0–0 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 3–0 Homesteaders FC (3-0 aggregate)

FC Mineurs 0–2 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 1–0 FC Mineurs (3-0 aggregate)

Acadia Caraquet 0–1 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 2–0 Acadia Caraquet (3-0 aggregate)

Some really exciting games here in the Round of 16. After losing 2-1 on the road to Vinovium, Sanctuary led 3-2 in the waning moments of the second leg. They were in position to lose on away goals, but a thunderbolt of a strike from just outside the box in added time got them the fourth goal they needed to advance. After being routed by Lumberjacks on the road, Springs needed a big win to advance. They got a goal at 48' to put them up 3-0, and they looked well on their way to advancing, but calamity struck. They surrendered three goals in the next 20 minutes to tie the game, then traded goals with Lumberjacks to end their Cup run on a 4-4 draw. Castellum and Bridgewall scored important away goals, so their scoreless draws at home put them through. Homesteaders held up well for 90 minutes against Heartwood, but on the return leg, they finally succumbed. Meanwhile, Archbishop and Newfield used their subs and reserves to advance past their lower-division opponents.

Quarterfinals
Lumberjacks FC 0–1 Castellum FC
Castellum FC 2–3 Lumberjacks FC (3-3 aggregate, Lumberjacks advances on away goals rule)

Bridgewall City FC 0–2 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 1–0 Bridgewall City FC (3-0 aggregate)

FC Portus 0–0 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 0–2 FC Portus

Sanctuary FC 2–1 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 4–1 Sanctuary FC (5-3 aggregate)

Lumberjacks' run continues, this time shaking off a home defeat to break through Castellum's vaunted defenses and score three goals in a road win. They will make it through to the semifinals, the farthest they have ever been in the Cup. Heartwood has a surprisingly easy time in their matchup against Bridgewall, winning both legs, while Portus puts home a pair in Kelly Park to silence the large Archbishop crowd and move on to the semifinals for the second straight year and third out of the last four. Lastly, Sanctuary hands Newfield a rare Cup defeat in Rutupiae, but come apart at the seams in Noviomagus under a determined Newfield onslaught.

Semifinals
FC Portus 0–2 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 0–3 FC Portus (2-3 aggregate)

Lumberjacks FC 4–4 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 3–0 Lumberjacks FC (7-4 aggregate)

Portus will not be stopped in their desire to return to the Cup final. Even after absorbing a brutal 2-0 home defeat in the first leg, they find the scoring punch (helped a bit by some lapses from Heartwood) to put three goals past the Eboracum side on the road and snatch a victory. Newfield and Lumberjacks play to a scintillating 4-4 draw, with Lumberjacks conceding late to allow the tied result. But Newfield is Newfield, and it's all business in the return leg, a workmanlike 3-0 win that puts an end to Lumberjacks' impressive run. The Cup final will be a rematch of last year and the third time in the last four Cup finals these two teams will contest it.

Nova Anglican Cup Final
Newfield FC 1–4 FC Portus

Revenge is sweet! With basically the entire nation cheering them on and hoping for an end to Newfield's Cup dominance, if not their league dominance, Portus routs Newfield in Noviomagus to hoist the Cup. It was 1-0 three minutes in, 2-0 at 17', and 3-0 by halftime. Newfield looked shocked that any team could play so thoroughly better than them, and although they played better in the second half, it wasn't close. Newfield falls to 9-2 in Cup finals, while Portus wins it for the first time ever. They have only ever played Newfield in their four Cup final appearances, and they have only ever lost until now. Perhaps this is a good omen for more competition in league and Cup play.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Tue Jun 16, 2020 1:58 pm

Season 14 Announcements

First, a Nova Anglican club has changed hands (and come under international ownership for the first time): Fishermans FC. Fishermans, an erstwhile Yeoman Division side that has spent the past few years toiling away in the Third Division, have been acquired by a consortium of businessmen from The Royal Kingdom of Quebec. The group includes the current owner of Heart of Saguenay, a lower-mid-tier Q-League side and businessmen of various enterprises. The reported purchase price was $12 million NSD. The new ownership group stated that their priorities were to rehabilitate the club.

This includes upgrading the 7,500 seat stadium known as The Docks, putting money into training facilities, a heavier focus on scouting and acquiring talent both for the academy team and the reserve team. They are looking to spend money on the multiversal market, but since the next multiversal transfer window won't be open for a while, they will look to sign local or regional talent instead. This rehabilitation will not extend to bringing in new staff for the moment; instead, they will work with the current front office and sporting staff to improve the club. When asked if they had as a goal getting out of the Third Division, the spokesman for the ownership group replied, "Of course. The new ownership considers it a priority to leave the Third Division and be competitive in the Yeoman Division as soon as possible. But building for the future is the most important." Due to geographic issues, Fishermans will compete in the Third Division's Maritime League this year; time will tell if that is an easier league for them to get promoted from.

Second, the NAFL will institute the Academy Division this year. This will consist of teams' U19 squads. There will be two divisions, a Sovereign Division, composed of the academy teams of the thirteen current Sovereign Division sides, and a Yeoman Division, composed of the thirteen traditional Yeoman Division sides. This means that Dalhousie, as a first-time participant in that division, will not enter an academy team, while Fishermans, a long-time Yeoman Division participant, will. When a senior level team is promoted or relegated, their academy team will compete in the relevant division regardless of their performance that year. Each division will play a single round-robin schedule, but the premier competition will be the Academy Cup. The Sovereign Division teams will be seeded 1-13, the Yeoman Division teams 14-26, and six non-academy youth teams, as determined by relevant NAYFF (Nova Anglica Youth Football Federation) competitions and rankings, will be seeded 27-32. It will be a two-legged competition until the final, which will be held at Kelly Park in Londinium. The winner will earn the right to compete in the Rising Stars Cup.

Academy Division - Sovereign

Newfield FC Academy
Archbishop FC Academy
Jeunesse Sept-Îles
FC Portus U19
Vinovium United Academy Premier
FC St. Martin Academy
Sanctuary Rising FC
Heartwood FC Academy
Springs YDP19
FC Young Lumberjacks 
Castellum FC Academy
Bridgewall City Academy
Labrador United Academy

Academy Division - Yeoman

Isca Town Young Boys
Comrades FC Academy
FC Mineurs Académique
FC Acadia Youth
Eboracum City Academy
Académie Grande Vitesse
Fishermans FC Academy
Homesteaders FC Pioneers
Shepherds FC Academy
19.FC Londinium County
First Nations Future FC
Apprentices FC
Maritimes FC Cadets

by **Nova Anglicana** » Thu Jun 18, 2020 8:57 am

The Nova Anglicana National Football Conference is the governing body of non-NAFL football in Nova Anglicana. The NANFC governs teams that are either semiprofessional or amateur. It exists below the Third Division, the lowest tier of NAFL (professional) football in Nova Anglicana. There is not promotion between the NANFC and the NAFL.

Leagues in the NANFC have two grades: Tier 1, which is largely (but not entirely) semiprofessional, and Tier 2, which is largely (but not entirely) amateur. Leagues are provincially organized and not all provinces have both Tier 1 and Tier 2 football. In provinces which do have Tier 1 and Tier 2 football, promotion and relegation is observed.

The champions of each province's Tier 1 League (or Tier 2 in Labrador) go to Londinium to compete in a six-team knockout tournament, the National Football Conference Championship. The seeding for the NFCC is determined by the aggregated results of the last three years.The winner of the tournament is proclaimed National Football Conference champions. Each province in the NANFC contests its own knockout cup. The winner of each provincial cup enters the Nova Anglican Cup in the play-in round. Additionally, the NANFC holds the Nova Anglican Trophy competition, a national knockout competition for NANFC members.

Ligue.1 Ouest du Quebec - Tier 1/2

AS Anticosti (Islanders/Les Insulaires)
Sept-Rivieres SC
Tonnere FC
AS Saint-Jean Minganie (Magpies, Les Pies)
SC Chemin de Fer
St Pierre-Madeleine FC

Ligue.1 Est du Quebec - Tier 1/2

SC Vieux-Fort
Mont Parent FC
Golfe-Nord FC
SC Ile-du-Sterne (Terns/Les Sternes)
AS La Tabatiere (Sorcerers/Les Sorciers)
AS Metis Saint-Augustin (Trappers/Les Trappeurs)

The Ligue.1 du Quebec is considered a mixed-tier league. Due to logistics and finances, not all teams can afford to be semi-pro and the league is divided into two divisions, Ouest and Est. Teams play each team in their division twice and play each team in the other division once, with home and away matches alternating between seasons, resulting in a 16-game season. The team at the top of the table is named league champion, but the top team from each division is also honored. At the end of the season, all 12 teams contest the Coupe de Cote-Nord. It takes the form of a knockout tournament, with the top four teams receiving a bye into the quarterfinals. The final is contested in Sept-Îles at the home grounds of Olympique Sept-Iles.

New Brunswick Premier League - Tier 1

SC Sugarloaf (Campbellton, Skiiers, SC stands for "Sporting Club", but some joke it stands for "Ski Club")
Gondola Point FC (Quispamsis)
Shédiac FC (Les Homards, Lobsters)
FC Sackville (Sandpipers, sometimes called MC for "Marsh Club", due to the marshes in the area)
FC Cor Unum Grand Sault (Hearts or Cugs)
Shiretown FC (Woodstock)
177 FC (Grand Bay-Westfield)
Belle Valleé FC (Memramcook, Les Chiacois)

New Brunswick Championship - Tier 2

Hub City FC (Noviomagus)
FC Érable Restigouche (Saint-Quentin, Les Siropiers, The Syrupers/Syrup Makers)
AFC Gagetown (Oromocto, it is a military club, so the joke is that AFC stands for "Army Football Club")
Moosehead FC (Durovernum Cantiacorum, Brewers, composed of employees of Moosehead Brewing)
FC Baie des Chaleurs (Beresford)
Kennebecasis FC (Hampton)
Minto Power FC
AS Shippagan (Ducks, Les Canards)

New Brunswick has a Tier 1 League, the New Brunswick Premier League, and a Tier 2 League, the New Brunswick Championship, both having eight teams. Teams play each team in their league twice, resulting in a 14-game season. The bottom team from the New Brunswick Premier League is relegated to the New Brunswick Championship, while the champion of the Championship is promoted to the Premier League. At the end of the season, all 16 teams contest the Coupe d'Espoir, or Cup of Hope. It is a two-legged competition, except for the final, which is held at Newfield FC's stadium in Noviomagus.

Nova Scotia A-League - Tier 1

Suidni Gaels FC (North Sydney)
AFC 11th of June (Miners, New Waterford, commemorates the death of William Davis, a striking miner)
John Gorham Rangers FC (Bedford)
Kentville Station FC
Bridgewater LaHave FC
Pictou Thistle FC
Windsor Pumpkins FC (Hants County West)
Walton Alabaster FC (Hants County East)

Nova Scotia B-League - Tier 2

Bible Hill FC
Amherst Isthmians
MacKinnon Argyle FC
Royal Annapolis FC
Am Baile Mor Athletic (Antigonish)
County Digby FC (Wharf Rats, started by motorcycle enthusiasts)
Colchester Stewiacke FC (Mastodons)
Shelburne Shipyards FC (Nor'easters)

Nova Scotia has a Tier 1 League, the Nova Scotia A-League, and a Tier 2 League, the Nova Scotia B-League, both having eight teams. Teams play each team in their league twice, resulting in a 14-game season. The bottom team from the Nova Scotia A-League is relegated to the Nova Scotia B-League, while the champion of the B-League is promoted to the A-League. At the end of the season, all 16 teams contest the Bluenose Cup. It is a two-legged competition, except for the final, which is held at Heartwood FC's stadium in Eboracum.

PEI Super League - Tier 1

Racing Summerside
Queens County South FC (Stratford)
FC Cornwall
Three Rivers FC (Montague)
Barrett's Cross FC (Kensington)
FC Souris (Beach Boys)
Hearts of Alberton FC (Silver Foxes)
North Shore FC

PEI Confederation League - Tier 2

Tignish Wild Geese FC
Georgetown Dockers FC
Atlantic Link FC (Borden-Carleton, Ferrymen)
The Crick FC (North Rustico)
New Linfield FC (Belfast)
Rocky Point FC
Miltonvale Park Spartans FC
FC O'Leary (Potato Boys)

Prince Edward Island has a Tier 1 League, the PEI Super League, and a Tier 2 League, the PEI Confederation League, both having eight teams. Teams play each team in their league twice, resulting in a 14-game season. The bottom team from the PEI Super League is relegated to the PEI Confederation League, while the champion of the Confederation League is promoted to the Super League. At the end of the season, all 16 teams contest the Spud Cup. It is a two-legged competition, except for the final, which is held at Isca Town FC's stadium in Isca Dumnoniorum.

Newfoundland First Division - Tier 1

The Mount FC
John Nutt FC (Torbay, Corsairs)
Londinium Celtic FC
Paradise Hibernian FC
North Avalon FC (Portugal Cove-St. Philip's)
Conception Bay West FC (Carbonear/Harbour Grace)
Garden City FC (Grand Falls-Windsor)
Volet Gander FC (Aviators, supporters' chant is "Soar Gander Soar")

Newfoundland Second Division - Tier 2

Burnt Bay FC (Lewisporte)
Wolf Cove FC (Springdale)
AC Bonavista (referring to AC Milan)
Athletic Port-aux-Basques (team colors and logo are similar to Athletic Bilbao)
Terra Nova FC (Glovertown/surrounding area)
Bishop's Falls FC (Newfie Bullets)
White Fleet FC (formed by the small local Portuguese community in Londinium)
Placentia Bohemians FC

Newfoundland has a Tier 1 League, the Newfoundland First Division, and a Tier 2 League, the Newfoundland Second Division, both having eight teams. Teams play each team in their league twice, resulting in a 14-game season. The bottom team from the First Division is relegated to the Second Division, while the champion of the Second Division is promoted to the First Division. At the end of the season, all 16 teams contest the Cabot Cup. It is a two-legged competition, except for the final, which is held at Londinium County FC's stadium in Conception. The winner of the Cabot Cup will contest the Belle Isle Cup, a two-legged competition, with the winner of the Nunatsuak Cup, Labrador’s provincial cup.

Labrador Division East - Tier 2

North West Pioneers FC
Saint Lewis Icebergs FC
Grenfell Hospitallers FC
Cartwright 1775 FC
Sheshatshiu Future FC
Alexis Bay FC

Labrador Division West - Tier 2

Wabush Iron FC
Kamistaitusset FC
FC Kapwa Pilipinas
FC Hydroelectric Churchill Falls
Labrador City FC
Aurores Boreales FC

Labrador Division North - Tier 2

Natsuasish Innu FC
FC Agvituk
Makkovik Norsk FC
FC Northern Rangers
KipukKak-Postville FC
Rigolet Southern FC

Labrador Division South - Tier 2

Seawolves FC
South Coast FC
FC Forteau
Devils Cove FC
FC Redcliff
Clearwater FC

Because of a large territory and sparse population, Labrador has four geographical divisions for its football, which are all Tier 2. Each division plays a 15-game schedule, with teams playing each other three times. The third match alternates home/away between seasons. The champions of each division contest the Labrador Championship. This is a four-team knockout tournament and hosting rotates between each division, being played at the home grounds of the champion of the division hosting the tournament. The winner goes to Londinium to contest the National Football Conference Championship.

At the end of the season, teams contest the Nunatsuak Cup. Teams are seeded in pods: the champions of each division will be seeds 1-4, the runners-up will be seeds 5-8, and so on and so forth. It is a knockout tournament, with seeds 1-8 receiving a bye to the Round of 16 (or octofinals). Additionally, the winner of the Nunatsuak Cup will contest the Belle Isle Cup with the winner of the Cabot Cup, from Newfoundland.

NA Trophy

Following the end of the regular season and the various provincial cups, all 100 teams in the NANFC compete in the NA Trophy, the national knockout competition for organized non-NAFL teams. The first several rounds are a one-legged regional competition; the 52 teams from Newfoundland, Labrador, and Quebec enter the NA Trophy Northern Phase, and the 48 teams from New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and PEI enter the NA Trophy Maritimes Phase.

In the Northern Phase, the champions and runners-up of each Labrador Division, the winners of each Ligue.1 du Quebec division, and the top six teams from the Newfoundland First Division receive byes to the second round. Eight randomly drawn teams play a preliminary round, followed by the remaining 32 non-bye teams competing in the first round. The 16 first round winners and the 16 bye teams contest the second round. Then the remaining 16 teams contest the third round.

In the Maritimes Phase, 16 Tier 1 teams receive a bye to the second round. The three winners of the respective Tier 1 leagues and the three winners of the respective provincial cups automatically receive byes. If the league winner and cup winner are the same, the cup runner-up receives the bye. The other bye teams are determined randomly, but it is always six teams from one province, and five teams from each of the two other provinces, where the six-team province rotates every year. The remaining 32 non-bye teams contest the first round. The 16 first round winners and the 16 bye teams contest the second round. Then the remaining 16 teams contest the third round.

When there are eight teams remaining in each phase, the competition becomes national. Teams are randomly drawn for one-legged octofinals and quarterfinals, as well as the semifinals, which are two-legged. The NA Trophy final is held in Londinium.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Thu Jun 18, 2020 12:06 pm

NANFC Season 14 Results

Ligue.1 Ouest Standings

Team                          P  W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 Tonnere FC                   16  7  5   4  21  15   +6  26 Ouest champion
 2 AS Saint Jean-Minganie       16  7  5   4  19  15   +4  26
 3 SC Chemin de Fer             16  6  5   5  14  12   +2  23
 4 Sept-Rivieres SC             16  4  7   5  19  19   +0  19
 5 AS Anticosti                 16  4  6   6  16  20   -4  18
 6 St. Pierre-Madeleine FC      16  3  2  11  11  27  -16  11

Ligue.1 Est Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Golfe-Nord FC                16  9  5  2  23  15  +8  32 Est and Ligue.1 champion
 2 Mont Parent FC               16  6  6  4  19  13  +6  24
 3 AS La Tabatiere              16  5  6  5  24  23  +1  21
 4 AS Metis Saint-Augustin      16  5  5  6  18  19  -1  20
 5 SC Ile-du-Sterne             16  5  4  7  23  25  -2  19
 6 SC Vieux-Fort                16  4  6  6  10  14  -4  18

Coupe de Cote-Nord Final

Tonnere FC 1–3 Golfe-Nord FC

Division East Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Sheshatshiu Future FC        15  8  1  6  24  15  +9  25
 2 Grenfell Hospitallers        15  6  5  4  15  15  +0  23
 3 Alexis Bay FC                15  6  4  5  17  18  -1  22
 4 Saint Lewis Icebergs FC      15  6  3  6  14  12  +2  21
 5 North West Pioneers FC       15  5  2  8  18  24  -6  17
 6 Cartwright 1775 FC           15  4  5  6  12  16  -4  17

Division West Standings

Team                                   P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 Labrador City FC                      15 10  1  4  28  16  +12  31
 2 Wabush Iron FC                        15  6  7  2  17  10   +7  25
 3 Kamistaitusset FC                     15  5  7  3  16  10   +6  22
 4 FC Hydroelectric Churchill Falls      15  5  5  5  12  13   -1  20
 5 FC Kapwa Pilipinas                    15  2  6  7  19  29  -10  12
 6 Aurores Boreales FC                   15  3  2 10  17  31  -14  11

Division North Standings

Team                         P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 Rigolet Southern FC         15  8  3  4  27  14  +13  27
 2 KippukKak-Postville FC      15  5  6  4  16  13   +3  21
 3 Makkovik Norsk FC           15  4  8  3  12  16   -4  20
 4 Natsuasish Innu FC          15  6  1  8  21  26   -5  19
 5 FC Agvituk                  15  4  7  4  12  11   +1  19
 6 FC Northern Rangers         15  3  5  7  12  20   -8  14

Division South Standings

Team                 P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 South Coast FC      15  9  4  2  27  17 +10  31
 2 Seawolves FC        15  6  5  4  18  18  +0  23
 3 Clearwater FC       15  5  4  6  15  15  +0  19
 4 Devils Cove FC      15  5  4  6  18  18  +0  19
 5 FC Forteau          15  3  7  5  18  22  -4  16
 6 FC Redcliff         15  3  4  8   9  15  -6  13

Labrador Championship

Semifinals

Sheshatshiu Future FC 1–0 South Coast FC
Labrador City FC 1–0 Rigolet Southern FC

Finals

Sheshatshiu Future FC 2–1 Labrador City FC

Nunatsuak Cup Final

Sheshatshiu Future FC 1–3 Rigolet Southern FC

New Brunswick Premier League Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Belle Vallée FC              14  9  1  4  23  21  +2  28
 2 177 FC                       14  7  4  3  20  22  -2  25
 3 FC Cor Unum Grand Sault      14  7  3  4  20  12  +8  24
 4 FC Sackville                 14  4  6  4  13  12  +1  18
 5 SC Sugarloaf                 14  4  4  6  14  19  -5  16
 6 Gondola Point FC             14  4  4  6  20  15  +5  16
 7 Shediac FC                   14  3  5  6  12  15  -3  14
 8 Shiretown FC                 14  2  5  7  20  26  -6  11 relegated

New Brunswick Championship Standings

Team                        P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 AS Shippagan               14  8  4  2  20   8  +12  28 promoted
 2 FC Érable Restigouche      14  7  4  3  17  15   +2  25
 3 Minto Power FC             14  6  3  5  23  20   +3  21
 4 FC Baie des Chaleurs       14  6  1  7  18  18   +0  19
 5 Hub City FC                14  5  3  6  14  18   -4  18
 6 Kennebecasis FC            14  5  2  7  14  18   -4  17
 7 Moosehead FC               14  5  1  8  13  16   -3  16
 8 AFC Gagetown               14  3  4  7  14  20   -6  13

Coupe d'Espoir/Cup of Hope Final

Belle Vallée FC 1–1 FC Cor Unum Grand Sault (2–1 AET)

Nova Scotia A-League Standings

Team                         P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 AFC 11th of June            14  8  2  4  15  10   +5  26
 2 Windsor Pumpkins FC         14  7  5  2  25  15  +10  26
 3 Walton Alabaster FC         14  7  4  3  12   7   +5  25
 4 Suidni Gaels FC             14  6  3  5  14  11   +3  21
 5 Bridgewater LaHave FC       14  6  2  6  17  13   +4  20
 6 Pictou Thistle FC           14  3  4  7  12  20   -8  13
 7 Kentville Station FC        14  2  6  6   7  15   -8  12
 8 John Gorham Rangers FC      14  2  4  8  10  21  -11  10 relegated

Nova Scotia B-League Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Shelburne Shipyards FC       14  7  3  4  13  12  +1  24 promoted
 2 County Digby FC              14  6  6  2  22  15  +7  24
 3 Amherst Isthmians            14  6  5  3  12  10  +2  23
 4 Colchester Stewiacke FC      14  6  3  5  16  12  +4  21
 5 Bible Hill FC                14  6  1  7  19  20  -1  19
 6 Royal Annapolis FC           14  4  4  6  20  26  -6  16
 7 Am Baile Mor Athletic        14  3  4  7  14  19  -5  13
 8 MacKinnon Argyle             14  3  4  7  15  17  -2  13

Bluenose Cup Final

AFC 11th of June 1–2 Pictou Thistle FC

PEI Super League Standings

Team                         P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Three Rivers FC             14  8  2  4  20  14  +6  26
 2 Queens County South FC      14  7  4  3  18  14  +4  25
 3 FC Souris                   14  6  5  3  19  15  +4  23
 4 North Shore FC              14  5  4  5  17  18  -1  19
 5 Barrett's Cross FC          14  4  5  5  14  13  +1  17
 6 Racing Summerside           14  4  5  5   9  12  -3  17
 7 Hearts of Alberton FC       14  3  5  6  13  16  -3  14
 8 FC Cornwall                 14  2  4  8   6  14  -8  10 relegated

PEI Confederation League Standings

Team                              P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Tignish Wild Geese FC            14 10  0  4  22  15  +7  30 promoted
 2 The Crick FC                     14  7  5  2  22  16  +6  26
 3 FC O'Leary                       14  6  3  5  24  20  +4  21
 4 Atlantic Link FC                 14  6  2  6  14  16  -2  20
 5 Georgetown Dockers FC            14  4  6  4  12  11  +1  18
 6 Miltonvale Park Spartans FC      14  4  5  5  17  16  +1  17
 7 Rocky Point FC                   14  3  3  8   7  14  -7  12
 8 New Linfield FC                  14  2  4  8  15  25 -10  10

Spud Cup Final

Three Rivers FC 1–0 Queens County South FC

Newfoundland First Division Standings

Team                         P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 Garden City FC              14  9  3  2  31  16  +15  30
 2 Conception Bay West FC      14  5  4  5  16  19   -3  19
 3 Volet Gander FC             14  4  6  4  14  12   +2  18
 4 John Nutt FC                14  5  2  7  32  31   +1  17
 5 North Avalon FC             14  4  5  5  11  15   -4  17
 6 Londinium Celtic FC         14  3  8  3  11  11   +0  17
 7 The Mount FC                14  3  7  4  17  20   -3  16
 8 Paradise Hibernians FC      14  4  3  7  16  24   -8  15 relegated

Newfoundland Second Division Standings

Team                            P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 White Fleet FC                 14  8  2  4  18  14  +4  26 promoted
 2 AC Bonavista                   14  6  4  4  22  17  +5  22
 3 Bishop's Falls FC              14  6  4  4  19  19  +0  22
 4 Athletic Port-aux-Basques      14  4  7  3  15  13  +2  19
 5 Placentia Bohemians FC         14  5  3  6  18  18  +0  18
 6 Wolf Cove FC                   14  4  4  6  15  19  -4  16
 7 Burnt Bay FC                   14  3  5  6  15  16  -1  14
 8 Terra Nova FC                  14  3  5  6  12  18  -6  14

Cabot Cup Final

Garden City FC 4–1 Volet Gander FC

Belle Isle Cup Final

Garden City FC 1–1 Rigolet Southern FC (2–1 AET)

National Football Conference Championship

Play-in Round

Golfe-Nord FC 2–0 AFC 11th of June
Three Rivers FC 0–2 Sheshatshiu Future FC

Semifinals

Belle Vallée FC 0–2 Golfe-Nord FC
Garden City FC 3–1 Sheshatshiu Future FC

Finals

Garden City FC 1–1 Golfe-Nord FC (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.)

NA Trophy Final (Kelly Park, Londinium)

AFC 11th of June 0–0 The Crick FC (0–0 AET) (4–2 pen.)

by **Nova Anglicana** » Thu Jun 18, 2020 3:57 pm

Season 14 Academy Division Results

Sovereign Division Standings

Team                                  P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Archbishop FC Academy                12 10  1  1  32   8  +24  31 champions
  2 Newfield FC Academy                  12  9  0  3  23   9  +14  27
  3 Heartwood FC Academy                 12  7  4  1  21  11  +10  25
  4 FC Portus U19                        12  7  2  3  15   7   +8  23
  5 FC St. Martin Academy                12  6  1  5  19  16   +3  19
  6 Labrador United Academy              12  4  1  7   6  10   -4  13
  7 Castellum FC Academy                 12  3  4  5   7  16   -9  13
  8 Bridgewall City Academy              12  3  4  5  10  16   -6  13
  9 Springs YDP19                        12  3  4  5  14  21   -7  13
 10 Sanctuary Rising FC                  12  3  4  5  15  14   +1  13
 11 Jeunesse Sept-Îles                   12  2  4  6  13  22   -9  10
 12 Vinovium United Academy Premier      12  1  6  5  11  19   -8   9
 13 FC Young Lumberjacks                 12  1  3  8  10  27  -17   6

In the Academy Division's inaugural season, Archbishop's academy steamrolls its competition, scoring 32 and conceding only eight, while dropping just five points for the season. That Newfield, Heartwood and Portus are the next-best teams shouldn't be terribly surprising, but that St. Martin finished above Bridgewall, Springs, and Sanctuary's youth clubs is a surprisingly good sign. Perhaps the senior team will be better in a few years. Meanwhile, Young Lumberjacks are glad that their fate for next year isn't determined by their finish, but by the senior team's performance.

Yeoman Division Standings

Team                           P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 FC Mineurs Académique         12  8  4  0  16   4  +12  28 champions
  2 Apprentices FC                12  6  3  3  16  10   +6  21
  3 FC Acadia Youth               12  5  5  2  11  13   -2  20
  4 19.FC Londinium County        12  6  2  4  20  12   +8  20
  5 First Nations Future FC       12  5  4  3  14  14   +0  19
  6 Maritimes FC Cadets           12  5  3  4  23  17   +6  18
  7 Isca Town Young Boys          12  5  1  6  25  20   +5  16
  8 Homesteaders FC Pioneers      12  3  7  2  16  15   +1  16
  9 Eboracum City Academy         12  5  0  7  15  19   -4  15
 10 Shepherds FC Academy          12  3  3  6  13  18   -5  12
 11 Comrades FC Academy           12  3  2  7   8  20  -12  11
 12 Académie Grande Vitesse       12  3  2  7  16  21   -5  11
 13 Fishermans FC Academy         12  2  2  8   6  16  -10   8

FC Mineurs Académique are the surprising champions, undefeated even. They only conceded four times in twelve games, an impressive performance. Maybe next most surprising is that First Nations Future finished fifth and Isca Town Young Boys finished seventh. Considering that those two senior teams should be on opposite ends of the Yeoman Division table, maybe the future is brighter than the present for First Nations. As for the bottom, it's Grande Vitesse and Fishermans. Grande Vitesse are still trying to get off the ground, while Fishermans have had a rough few years. Things should get better with time.

But we all know that Academy Division play is only the warm-up for the real show: the Academy Cup. This year, Halifax Shamrocks, Pointe-Noire Stars, Sydney United, The Battery, Truro Border Reivers, and Yarmouth Athletic Club were the lucky non-Academy Division sides who qualified for the Academy Cup. Let the Cup begin!

First Round
Pointe-Noire Stars 1–1 Archbishop FC Academy
Archbishop FC Academy 4–0 Pointe-Noire Stars (5-1 aggregate)

Truro Border Reivers 0–6 Newfield FC Academy
Newfield FC Academy 6–3 Truro Border Reivers (12-3 aggregate)

Halifax Shamrocks 0–2 Heartwood FC Academy
Heartwood FC Academy 4–0 Halifax Shamrocks (6-0 aggregate)

Yarmouth Athletic Club 0–1 FC Portus U19
FC Portus U19 1–0 Yarmouth Athletic Club (2-0 aggregate)

The Battery 1–2 FC St. Martin Academy
FC St. Martin Academy 0–0 The Battery (2-1 aggregate)

Sydney United 2–2 Labrador United Academy
Labrador United Academy 1–0 Sydney United (3-2 aggregate)

Fishermans FC Academy 0–1 Castellum FC Academy
Castellum FC Academy 2–0 Fishermans FC Academy (3-0 aggregate)

Académie Grande Vitesse 1–2 Bridgewall City Academy
Bridgewall City Academy 2–0 Académie Grande Vitesse (4-1 aggregate)

Comrades FC Academy 1–1 Springs YDP19
Springs YDP19 2–2 Comrades FC Academy (3-3 aggregate, Comrades advances on away goals rule)

Shepherds FC Academy 0–0 Sanctuary Rising FC
Sanctuary Rising FC 2–2 Shepherds FC Academy (2-2 aggregate, Shepherds advances on away goals rule)

Eboracum City Academy 1–2 Jeunesse Sept-Îles
Jeunesse Sept-Îles 4–1 Eboracum City Academy (6-2 aggregate)

Homesteaders FC Pioneers 0–1 Vinovium United Academy Premier
Vinovium United Academy Premier 1–0 Homesteaders FC Pioneers (2-0 aggregate)

Isca Town Young Boys 1–0 FC Young Lumberjacks
FC Young Lumberjacks 2–1 Isca Town Young Boys (2-2 aggregate, Isca Town advances on away goals rule)

Maritimes FC Cadets 2–2 FC Mineurs Académique
FC Mineurs Académique 2–1 Maritimes FC Cadets (4-3 aggregate)

First Nations Future FC 0–0 Apprentices FC
Apprentices FC 1–2 First Nations Future FC (1-2 aggregate)

19.FC Londinium County 0–1 FC Acadia Youth
FC Acadia Youth 1–0 19.FC Londinium County (2-0 aggregate)

None of the amateur or non-academy clubs manage to drop an academy team, though Sydney United and Pointe-Noire Stars did come away with draws in their first matchups. One has to feel bad for Truro Border Reivers; conceding twelve goals on aggregate has got to sting. Elsewhere, Springs and Sanctuary's youth teams fall to Comrades and Shepherds on away goals, while Isca Town mildly upsets Lumberjacks on away goals, and First Nations Future trips up Apprentices.

Round of 16
FC Acadia Youth 2–0 Archbishop FC Academy
Archbishop FC Academy 3–1 FC Acadia Youth (3-3 aggregate, Acadia advances on away goals rule)

First Nations Future FC 1–3 Newfield FC Academy
Newfield FC Academy 5–1 First Nations Future FC (8-2 aggregate)

FC Mineurs Académique 2–1 Heartwood FC Academy
Heartwood FC Academy 0–1 FC Mineurs Académique (1-3 aggregate)

Isca Town Young Boys 0–1 FC Portus U19
FC Portus U19 2–1 Isca Town Young Boys (3-1 aggregate)

Vinovium United Academy Premier 0–3 FC St. Martin Academy
FC St. Martin Academy 0–2 Vinovium United Academy Premier (2-3 aggregate)

Jeunesse Sept-Îles 4–4 Labrador United Academy
Labrador United Academy 1–2 Jeunesse Sept-Îles (5-6 aggregate)

Shepherds FC Academy 0–1 Castellum FC Academy
Castellum FC Academy 0–1 Shepherds FC Academy (1-1 AET, 2-1 aggregate)

Comrades FC Academy 0–3 Bridgewall City Academy
Bridgewall City Academy 1–0 Comrades FC Academy (4-0 aggregate)

Here we see our first real upsets in this competition! Archbishop got flustered by FC Acadia, and then the New Brunswick academy club held on in the return leg to take the top seed down. Meanwhile, FC Mineurs Académique isn't messing around with any of this "just hold on" crap; they took both legs to advance past the #3 seed. Labrador United was feeling pretty good, leaving Sept-Iles with a draw and four away goals. But you still have to win the home leg, and they didn't. All other top seeds advance, including Newfield pretty emphatically.

Quarterfinals
FC Acadia Youth 0–1 Bridgewall City Academy
Bridgewall City Academy 0–0 FC Acadia Youth (1-0 aggregate)

Castellum FC Academy 2–0 Newfield FC Academy
Newfield FC Academy 1–1 Castellum FC Academy (1-3 aggregate)

FC Mineurs Académique 3–2 Jeunesse Sept-Îles
Jeunesse Sept-Îles 1–0 FC Mineurs Académique (3-3 aggregate, Sept-Îles advances on away goals)

FC St. Martin Academy 1–1 FC Portus U19
FC Portus U19 1–0 FC St. Martin Academy (2-1 aggregate)

While Sept-Îles escapes on away goals, and Bridgewall holds off Acadia, Newfield is not so lucky, succumbing to Castellum's academy 2-0 on the road and failing to break through at home, settling for a tie and bowing out in the quarterfinals. Portus manages to get the better of St. Martin, but not by much. They are now the highest seed remaining in the competition.

Semifinals

Bridgewall City Academy 0–1 FC Portus U19
FC Portus U19 1–0 Bridgewall City Academy (2-0 aggregate)

Jeunesse Sept-Îles 1–1 Castellum FC Academy
Castellum FC Academy 1–0 Jeunesse Sept-Îles (2-1 aggregate)

In a matchup of defensive teams, Portus takes identical 1-0 victories over Bridgewall to advance rather easily to the Cup final. Meanwhile, Castellum holds hosts Sept-Îles to a goal, and then shuts them out on the return leg. The Cup final will feature two defensive-minded academies that try to emulate their parent clubs in their zeal for preventing goals. Don't be surprised if this one needs AET or penalties.

Academy Cup Final (Kelly Park, Londinium)

FC Portus U19 0–0 Castellum FC Academy (0–0 AET) (3–1 pen.)

Surprising nobody, Portus and Castellum play to a nil-nil draw that eventually needs penalties to resolve it. A thrilling end, even if it isn't one filled with goals. FC Portus U19 become the inaugural Academy Cup winners; their parent club are also the NA Cup holders, at least until they defend their title this season.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Fri Jun 19, 2020 12:48 pm

NAFL Season 14

In season 14, we have already seen the results from the brand-new Academy Division as well as the semi-pro/amateur NANFC. What will we see in the final NAFL season before Nova Anglicana rejoins IFCF play?

Sovereign Division Standings

Team                      P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 FC Portus                24  15  6   3  36  14  +22  51 champions
  2 Sanctuary FC             24  14  7   3  43  21  +22  49
  3 Bridgewall City FC       24  13  5   6  29  17  +12  44
  4 Archbishop FC            24  12  6   6  46  30  +16  42
  5 Newfield FC              24  11  5   8  42  30  +12  38
  6 Heartwood FC             24   8 10   6  37  36   +1  34
  7 Springs FC               24   8  7   9  36  32   +4  31
  8 Lumberjacks FC           24   7  7  10  33  39   -6  28
  9 Castellum FC             24   6  8  10  14  24  -10  26
 10 Labrador United FC       24   6  6  12  21  34  -13  24
 11 Vinovium United FC       24   5  8  11  23  30   -7  23
 12 FC St. Martin            24   5  5  14  29  52  -23  20
 13 Olympique Sept-Iles      24   4  4  16  31  61  -30  16 relegated

Now this is the surprise of the century! Well, at least the surprise of the decade. Instead of winning their seventh consecutive Sovereign Division title, Newfield finishes fifth(!), their worst finish in the modern history of the NAFL. Doubtless, some of this is due to time lost to injury by several key players, but they lost three of their first four matches and were only 6-1-5 at the end of the first half. Newfield lost four league matches in seasons 11-13 combined. In fact, you have to go back to season 8 for Newfield to have lost as many games total (9 in 6 seasons) as they did this year alone (8). Making it more remarkable, Archbishop finished fourth, meaning this is the first time in recent history that one of those two teams have not appeared in the top two. Even more remarkable, Portus' win means they are the first non-Newfield or Archbishop club to hold the NAFL Sovereign Division title. Portus and Sanctuary both won on the last matchday, so Portus takes the title. Bridgewall has a good season as well, finishing third, while Castellum, last season's surprise, falls back down to ninth. Lumberjacks plays well and finishes well clear of relegation, in eighth place. Meanwhile, St. Martin's win over Olympique on Matchday 24 gave them a four-point lead with two to play. St. Martin lost to Vinovium, barely above them, but Olympique was getting whacked 7-2 by Archbishop and so entered the final matchday doomed to relegation. They will hope to avoid being stuck there for more than one season.

Yeoman Division Standings

Team                      P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Isca Town FC             24  17  3   4  56  14  +42  54 promotion playoff
  2 Londinium County FC      24  16  6   2  59  23  +36  54 promotion playoff
  3 FC Gránde Vitesse        24  12  4   8  38  31   +7  40
  4 Artisans FC              24  12  4   8  44  30  +14  40
  5 Comrades FC              24  10  5   9  39  32   +7  35
  6 Maritimes FC             24   9  7   8  41  41   +0  34
  7 Shepherds FC             24   9  7   8  30  22   +8  34
  8 Eboracum City FC         24   8  6  10  35  41   -6  30
  9 FC Mineurs               24   8  6  10  17  23   -6  30
 10 FC Acadia                24   7  6  11  22  33  -11  27
 11 Homesteaders FC          24   4  9  11  22  37  -15  21
 12 First Nations FC         24   4  5  15  32  62  -30  17
 13 Dalhousie                24   4  4  16  20  66  -46  16 relegated

The real contest this year was between Isca Town and Londinium County, battling for promotion and fourteen points clear of the rest of the league. And it seems they will need a two-legged playoff to resolve the tie at the top of the standings. They both dominated the league, scoring more than 50 goals and sporting a goal differential of greater than +35. On Matchday 24, Isca Town routed County 5-1, giving them a slim three-point lead with two matches to play. But the next time out, County took care of business, defeating lowly FC Acadia, while Isca Town fell away to a middling Shepherds squad. This meant that if both teams won on the final day of the season, we would be heading to a playoff. And indeed they did. Both teams collected solid 3-0 wins over mid-table opponents and will now prepare for the playoff tie.

As for the rest of the league, FC Gránde Vitesse had a good year, going from second-to-last to tied for third. It's that kind of growth they will need to attract fans. Artisans tied them in a turnaround season as well, going from 11th to tied for third. City had a good year, finishing eighth, while Homesteaders dropped from sixth to 11th. First Nations and Dalhousie were the relegation battlers, with Dalhousie eventually going down. First Nations gave them a rude welcome to the Yeoman Division, defeating them 10-1 in their very first game. Despite that, the two clubs were tied going into the final day of the season. But Homesteaders, themselves only a loss and a First Nations win away from relegation, defeated Dalhousie, while First Nations managed to hold FC Mineurs to a draw to stay alive.

Promotion Playoff

Londinium County FC 1–1 Isca Town FC
Isca Town FC 1–6 Londinium County FC (2-7 aggregate)

County really wanted this one! After failing to secure a win at their home grounds, they come out with their hair on fire on the return leg. It's 0-4 by halftime, and Isca Town's spirits are broken. County will return to the Sovereign Division for the first time since they were promoted (also via playoff) in season 4. They were immediately relegated in season 5, so they will be trying their best to improve.

Third Division

Maritime League Standings

Team                        P   W   D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Fishermans FC              22  15   4   3  31  11  +20  49 promotion playoff
  2 Sussex Town                22   9   8   5  23  16   +7  35
  3 Spring Hill Harriers       22  10   5   7  29  30   -1  35
  4 Miramichi Caledonians      22   8   6   8  35  29   +6  30
  5 Edmunston Rangers          22   7   9   6  16  17   -1  30
  6 Kingston Town              22   7   8   7  16  16   +0  29
  7 Bathurst Athletic          22   8   4  10  28  36   -8  28
  8 Acadia Caraquet            22   8   4  10  26  26   +0  28
  9 Yarmouth United            22   5  11   6  16  19   -3  26
 10 Riverview United           22   5  10   7  22  23   -1  25
 11 Rothesay Corinthians       22   6   6  10  15  21   -6  24
 12 Saint Stephen              22   4   5  13  11  24  -13  17

Eastern League Standings

Team                      P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 AFC Truro                22  11  5   6  33  21  +12  38 promotion playoff
  2 Clarenville XI           22  11  4   7  26  20   +6  37
  3 Bay Roberts              22  10  7   5  31  23   +8  37
  4 Harbour Breton           22  10  6   6  32  22  +10  36
  5 St. Anthony              22   8  6   8  22  26   -4  30
  6 Port Hawkesbury          22   8  6   8  16  25   -9  30
  7 New Glasgow Casuals      22   7  8   7  20  17   +3  29
  8 Fall River               22   7  7   8  27  28   -1  28
  9 Marystown Rovers         22   5 10   7  21  23   -2  25
 10 Glace Bay                22   5 10   7  19  19   +0  25
 11 Stephenville             22   7  4  11  25  32   -7  25
 12 Stellarton Rovers        22   4  5  13  20  36  -16  17

New league for Fishermans, but no problem winning under the new ownership. Fishermans finishes fourteen points up on their nearest Maritime League competitors, conceding only eleven goals all season. Spring Hill Harriers has a competitive season, but Kingston Town, who is usually challenging, sinks down to sixth. In the Eastern League, AFC Truro pulls a Dalhousie, going from worst to first. They almost didn't make it, leading Clarenville XI by one going into the final day, then losing to weaklings Marystown Rovers. But Clarenville themselves lost to Bay Roberts, who played spoiler. This resulted in a tie for second between those two teams and Truro winning. Can Truro complete their Dalhousie feat by winning the promotion playoff? Or is this the year that Fishermans finally escapes the Third Division?

Promotion Playoff

AFC Truro 1–1 Fishermans FC
Fishermans FC 2–1 AFC Truro (3-2 aggregate)

After holding Truro to a draw, Fishermans defeats Truro 2-1 in front of a sell-out crowd of 7,500 to finally, finally, finally, win a playoff and return to the Yeoman Division. This was the fourth year they had spent in the Third Division, and their results had been second place, losing both legs of the playoffs, and losing the playoffs on away goals. They will be incredibly happy (and richer) for spending next year in the Yeoman Division instead of a fifth year in purgatory. They'll have to train and outlay some cash to prevent being relegated right back next year.

Reserve Division Standings

Team                            P   W   D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Newfield Reserves              25  14   8   3  41  19  +22  50
  2 Heartwood Reserves             25  15   5   5  41  22  +19  50
  3 Archbishop B                   25  14   8   3  43  31  +12  50
  4 Bridgewall City Reserves       25  16   1   8  31  19  +12  49
  5 Portus B                       25  14   5   6  34  21  +13  47
  6 St. Martin B                   25  13   6   6  50  30  +20  45
  7 Sanctuary Reserves             25  13   4   8  43  25  +18  43
  8 Olympique Sept-Iles B          25  13   3   9  48  36  +12  42
  9 Vinovium United B              25  11   6   8  36  33   +3  39
 10 Labrador United Reserves       25  11   4  10  23  25   -2  37
 11 Isca Town B                    25  11   4  10  43  37   +6  37
 12 Lumberjacks Reserves           25  10   7   8  42  25  +17  37
 13 Springs Reserves               25  10   7   8  34  30   +4  37
 14 Shepherds Reserves             25  10   6   9  35  30   +5  36
 15 Castellum B                    25   7  12   6  18  14   +4  33
 16 Comrades B                     25   7   9   9  29  30   -1  30
 17 Fishermans Reserves            25   8   5  12  21  31  -10  29
 18 Eboracum City Reserves         25   7   7  11  38  46   -8  28
 19 Londinium County Reserves      25   7   6  12  30  43  -13  27
 20 Homesteaders B                 25   7   5  13  23  26   -3  26
 21 FC Mineurs B                   25   6   6  13  14  26  -12  24
 22 Grande Vitesse B               25   6   6  13  26  37  -11  24
 23 First Nations B                25   5   8  12  28  53  -25  23
 24 Artisans B                     25   6   3  16  24  45  -21  21
 25 Maritimes Reserves             25   4   6  15  15  34  -19  18
 26 FC Acadia B                    25   4   5  16  27  69  -42  17

Newfield, Heartwood, and Archbishop tie for the title in the Reserve Division, just barely ahead of Bridgewall. Evidently Newfield's senior club injuries didn't affect the reserve team too much. Castellum's reserves bottom out in 15th, four points below the halfway point, while Fishermans' reserves improve and Gránde Vitesse languishes near the bottom.

Nova Anglican Cup

Play-in Round
Garden City FC 2–1 Acadia Caraquet
Acadia Caraquet 2–0 Garden City FC (3-2 aggregate)

Three Rivers FC 0–2 Fall River
Fall River 2–1 Three Rivers FC (4-1 aggregate)

Rigolet Southern FC 0–0 Yarmouth United
Yarmouth United 3–0 Rigolet Southern FC (3-0 aggregate)

Pictou Thistle FC 1–1 Riverview United
Riverview United 1–1 Pictou Thistle FC (3-1 AET, 4-2 aggregate)

Golfe-Nord FC 2–2 Marystown Rovers
Marystown Rovers 2–2 Golfe-Nord FC (3-2 AET, 5-4 aggregate)

Belle Vallée FC 1–0 Glace Bay
Glace Bay 2–3 Belle Vallée FC (2-4 aggregate)

Stellarton Rovers 1–5 Stephenville
Stephenville 0–1 Stellarton Rovers (2-5 aggregate)

Saint Stephen 1–0 Rothesay Corinthians
Rothesay Corinthians 1–0 Saint Stephen (1-0 AET, 2-1 PKs)

With the addition of the six regional cup winners, there are now eight games in the play-in round. Only one upset, though, as Belle Valleé from New Brunswick takes down Glace Bay, but Marystown Rovers and Riverview United need AET to prevail.

First Round
Acadia Caraquet 0–3 Homesteaders FC
Homesteaders FC 2–1 Acadia Caraquet (5-1 aggregate)

Fall River 0–1 FC Acadia
FC Acadia 1–0 Fall River (2-0 aggregate)

Yarmouth United 0–1 FC Mineurs
FC Mineurs 2–0 Yarmouth United (3-0 aggregate)

Riverview United 3–1 Eboracum City FC
Eboracum City FC 3–0 Riverview United (4-3 aggregate)

Marystown Rovers 0–1 Shepherds FC
Shepherds FC 0–1 Marystown Rovers (2-1 AET, 3-1 aggregate)

Belle Vallée FC 0–1 Maritimes FC
Maritimes FC 5–0 Belle Vallée FC (6-0 aggregate)

Stephenville 1–2 Comrades FC
Comrades FC 3–4 Stephenville (5-5 aggregate, Stephenville advances on away goals rule)

Rothesay Corinthians 0–0 Artisans FC
Artisans FC 1–0 Rothesay Corinthians (1-0 aggregate)

Bathurst Athletic 0–3 First Nations FC
First Nations FC 1–4 Bathurst Athletic (4-4 aggregate, Bathurst advances on away goals rule)

Kingston Town 1–2 Dalhousie
Dalhousie 1–0 Kingston Town (3-1 aggregate)

New Glasgow Casuals 0–0 Fishermans FC
Fishermans FC 0–0 New Glasgow Casuals (1-0 AET, 1-0 aggregate)

Port Hawkesbury 1–2 AFC Truro
AFC Truro 2–4 Port Hawkesbury (4-5 aggregate)

St. Anthony 1–0 Clarenville XI
Clarenville XI 1–0 St. Anthony (1-1 AET, 1-2 aggregate)

Edmundston Rangers 0–1 Bay Roberts 
Bay Roberts 0–1 Edmundston Rangers (1-1 AET, 2-1 aggregate)

Miramichi Caledonians 1–0 Harbour Breton
Harbour Breton 3–1 Miramichi Caledonians (3-2 aggregate)

Spring Hill Harriers 2–3 Sussex Town
Sussex Town 1–0 Spring Hill Harriers (4-2 aggregate)

Only two Yeoman Division teams go down in the first round: Comrades and First Nations. Both teams conceded far too many goals in their home leg and lost, agonizingly, on away goals. But Shepherds and Fishermans needed AET to escape their Third Division opponents. Belle Vallée, the only NANFC team to make it past the preliminary round, plays Maritimes well at home, but collapses on the road to bow out of the Cup. This is the first time in four years City has advanced past the first round, so they've got to be feeling pretty good. Lastly, St. Anthony and Bay Roberts need AET to find an equalizer that puts them through.

Second Round
Homesteaders FC 0–1 Castellum FC
Castellum FC 1–0 Homesteaders FC (2-0 aggregate)

FC Acadia 2–3 Labrador United FC
Labrador United FC 2–0 FC Acadia (5-2 aggregate)

FC Mineurs 0–2 Vinovium United FC
Vinovium United FC 1–0 FC Mineurs (3-0 aggregate)

Eboracum City FC 1–1 FC St. Martin
FC St. Martin 0–1 Eboracum City FC (1-2 aggregate)

Shepherds FC 1–0 Olympique Sept-Iles
Olympique Sept-Iles 0–1 Shepherds FC (0-2 aggregate)

Maritimes FC 4–1 Londinium County FC
Londinium County FC 1–1 Maritimes FC (2-5 aggregate)

Stephenville 0–3 Isca Town FC
Isca Town FC 0–2 Stephenville (3-2 aggregate)

Artisans FC 0–1 FC Gránde Vitesse
FC Gránde Vitesse 1–1 Artisans FC (2-1 aggregate)

Bathurst Athletic 0–4 Lumberjacks FC
Lumberjacks FC 3–0 Bathurst Athletic (7-0 aggregate)

Dalhousie 0–2 Springs FC
Springs FC 5–1 Dalhousie

Fishermans FC 0–1 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 1–0 Fishermans FC (2-0 aggregate)

Port Hawkesbury 0–4 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 3–0 Port Hawkesbury (7-0 aggregate)

St. Anthony 0–0 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 1–0 St. Anthony (1-0 aggregate)

Bay Roberts 1–0 Bridgewall City FC
Bridgewall City FC 0–0 Bay Roberts  (0-1 aggregate)

Harbour Breton 1–7 Sanctuary FC
Sanctuary FC 2–2 Harbour Breton (9-3 aggregate)

Sussex Town 0–1 FC Portus
FC Portus 2–0 Sussex Town (3-0 aggregate)

It's a return of Third Division teams over Sovereign Division teams, and it just might be the biggest upset yet. 3rd-seeded Bridgewall sends the reserve team to Bay Roberts and comes away with a shock defeat, poor form from not the first-string. But then Bay Roberts goes to Pons Aelius and essentially parks the bus for 60 minutes, trying to hold on to the lead. With the help of a red card, they do it and send Bridgewall home far earlier than they were expecting. Stephenville defeated Isca Town (a Yeoman Division side, anyway), but couldn't overcome their deficit. Archbishop's reserves make it a little close for comfort against St. Anthony, but come away with the win. Other upsets include Shepherds taking both legs over Olympique, and City advancing to the Round of 16 for the first time by taking down St. Martin. County goes down to Maritimes, while Springs and Sanctuary record impressive victories over lower-division sides.

Round of 16
Castellum FC 0–0 Lumberjacks FC
Lumberjacks FC 1–0 Castellum FC (1-0 aggregate)

Labrador United FC 1–2 Springs FC
Springs FC 0–1 Labrador United FC (2-2 aggregate, Springs advances on away goals rule)

Vinovium United FC 0–1 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 2–0 Vinovium United FC (3-0 aggregate)

Eboracum City FC 2–2 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 8–1 Eboracum City FC (10-3 aggregate)

Shepherds FC 1–0 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 0–0 Shepherds FC (0-1 aggregate)

Bay Roberts 0–2 Maritimes FC
Maritimes FC 0–0 Bay Roberts (2-0 aggregate)

Isca Town FC 2–1 Sanctuary FC
Sanctuary FC 1–1 Isca Town FC (2-3 aggregate)

FC Gránde Vitesse 1–1 FC Portus
FC Portus 3–0 FC Gránde Vitesse (4-1 aggregate)

Most ties in the Round of 16 were pretty exciting. Lumberjacks overcomes Castellum in a pair of close games and Springs defends well enough at home to win on away goals. Meanwhile, City and Gránde Vitesse hold their higher division opponents to a draw, but crumble on the away leg, City in spectacular, 8-1, fashion. But there are two upsets mixed in, as Archbishop just looks completely out of sorts against Shepherds, just like they don't care about advancing to a quarterfinal matchup with Newfield and Sanctuary can't find the second goal they need against Isca Town. About the only uninteresting games are Heartwood's two wins over Vinovium and Maritimes winning 2-0 on aggregate over Bay Roberts. With the way things are shaping up, Newfield, Heartwood, and Springs must be salivating over their semifinals chances, facing Yeoman Division opponents. Three Yeoman Division teams in the last eight is much higher than usual.

Quarterfinals
Shepherds FC 0–0 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 1–0 Shepherds FC (1-0 aggregate)

Maritimes FC 1–5 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 5–0 Maritimes FC (10-1 aggregate)

Isca Town FC 0–0 Springs FC
Springs FC 0–0 Isca Town FC (1-0 AET, 1-0 aggregate)

Lumberjacks FC 0–0 FC Portus
FC Portus 1–1 Lumberjacks FC (1-1 aggregate, Lumberjacks advances on away goals rule)

It's a return trip to the semifinals for Lumberjacks, holding Portus goalless in Vinovium, and scoring that all-important away goal in Portus Abonae to secure their advancement. Heartwood leaves no doubt as to their advancement, scoring five goals in each leg to rout Maritimes out of the competition. Newfield and Springs find their advancement a little tougher, as their Yeoman Division opponents hold them to a scoreless draw in the away leg. Newfield ultimately doesn't play their A-team, but secures advancement with a modest 1-0 win at home over Shepherds. Meanwhile, Springs gets all they can handle for 120 minutes from Isca Town before finding a winner. Springs and Heartwood represent overlooked mid-table fanbases looking for a breakthrough, while Lumberjacks will look to continue their Cinderella run against giants Newfield, in a rematch of last year.

Semifinals
Lumberjacks FC 0–1 Newfield FC
Newfield FC 2–3 Lumberjacks FC (3-3 aggregate, Lumberjacks advances on away goals rule)

Springs FC 0–0 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 1–1 Springs FC (1-1 aggregate)

In a rematch of last year, Lumberjacks gets revenge on Newfield for knocking them out in the semifinals. After losing at home, they walk straight into the lions' den and get a late goal from former reserve team player Garrett Burke to defeat Newfield and advance to the final for the first time in their history. Theirs was definitely the more exciting semifinal, as Springs and Heartwood play to a pair of draws, with Springs advancing to the final for the first time since season 1. They will host the final against Lumberjacks. Whoever wins, there will be a first-time winner.

Nova Anglican Cup Final
Springs FC 4–1 Lumberjacks FC

This wasn't the highest-viewed Cup final ever, but if you like a Cinderella story, this was the final for you. Springs finished seventh, so a Cup win would inject some excitement into an otherwise lackluster season and be sweet after years of coming up short, including against Third Division teams. For Lumberjacks, they finished eighth, which is pretty good for them in the Sovereign Division. Their semifinal run in last season's Cup whetted their appetite for success and they could be a team on the rise. However, Springs looked like the clearly better side at home, putting an end to Lumberjacks' run. After losing twice in the semifinals and once in the final, they at last hoist the Cup. This also marks the second consecutive season Newfield has not won the Cup final. Could the winds be changing in the NAFL?

by **Nova Anglicana** » Tue Jun 30, 2020 4:27 pm

NAFL Season 15 Preview

Sovereign Division Preview

Club: Newfield Athletic
City: Noviomagus
Colors: Green and white hoops
League Titles: 11
Cup Titles: 9
Description: They come from Noviomagus, in southeastern New Brunswick. It's the nation's third-largest city, and the club's success is a point of pride for its citizens, who sometimes feel overlooked by Londinium and Eboracum. They play tactically sound, balanced, football and are incredibly tough to bring down. They don't just sign the best players, either, they combine signings with development.
Why should you root for them: They're winners, plain and simple. They win far more often than not. If you root for them, you can expect
league success, Cup success, and IFCF places almost every year. The players aren't assholes about it, but you can be if you want to.

Club: Archbishop FC
City: Londinium
Colors: Purple with white sash/white with purple sash
League Titles: 2
Cup Titles: 2
Description: This is the flagship club of the country, or should be. They come from the largest city, they are a rich and largely successful club, and they play more exciting football than Newfield. Archbishop is widely supported, but especially among the upper middle and upper classes. Going to an Archbishop game is a good way to see politicians, high-ranking clergy, celebrities, bankers, and the rest of high society. Having an Archbishop scarf is a good way to mark yourself as higher-class. They just almost always lose out to Newfield.
Why should you root for them: They're a big, rich, successful club that almost always ends up in the top three in the league, the late stages of the Cup, and the IFCF places. Do you like glitz, glamor, and success without feeling tawdry or tacky? Then Archbishop is the club for you, because they have class, baby.

Club: FC Portus
City: Portus Abonae
Colors: Blue and white stripes, like Brighton
League Titles: 1
Cup Titles: 1
Description: They hail from Portus Abonae, one of the twin mid-sized cities of western Newfoundland. It's a port and a fairly working-class city. They sometimes feel slighted, being farther from the trendy area of eastern Newfoundland and the capital, and that motivates their play. Unlike other clubs, they lack a class-based supporter divide. They prefer defensive football, but they can score and are competitive.
Why should you root for them: Like a club who knows how to defend and turns it into success? Tired of the Newfield-Archbishop duopoly? Want a club from a bit of a smaller area without all the hustle and bustle? Portus is what you're looking for.

Club: Bridgewall City FC
City: Pons Aelius
Colors: Brick red and gold
League Titles: 0
Cup Titles: 0
Description: Pons Aelius is a city on Cape Breton Island, in the northeast of Nova Scotia. It's a port city and an ancestral steel city. Bridgewall are hard workers and defensive footballers who never concede anything without a fight. They're usually in the top half, and when they can actually score, they are top three. They sometimes have a bit of a reputation as bullies.
Why should you root for them: If you like defensive football played and coached by hard-nosed people who aren't afraid to mix it up a little or get a little more physical than the rules allow, then Bridgewall is for you.

Club: Sanctuary FC
City: Rutupiae
Colors: Gold and white
League Titles: 0
Cup Titles: 0
Description: Sanctuary were the reason the NAFL has 13 teams, being the original expansion club, based in the Nova Anglican Admin Zone of Esportiva (NAAZE). Rutupiae had a famous lighthouse and so the club sees itself as sort of a beacon of freedom and hope for immigrants and refugees. The name "Sanctuary" reflects that. Rutupiae's a multicultural city, and the club itself is diverse. They play a slightly attacking style and usually challenge in the top half.
Why should you root for them: Sanctuary is a fun underdog, since they're so far away from everyone else. But they really have the entire city behind them and they're not going to embarrass any fans of theirs by performing or tolerating racist, sexist or homophobic behavior. You could do much worse than scandal-free, usually competitive, usually exciting football put on by a diverse and heartwarming cast of characters.

Club: Heartwood FC
City: Eboracum
Colors: Green and brown
League Titles: 0
Cup Titles: 0
Description: Heartwood's in the nation's second-largest city, Eboracum. Despite this, they are perennial underachievers. They play an attacking style, and when they are scoring, they're successful. But they are prone to conceding, and if the scoring dries up, they are in trouble. Since Eboracum was known for the production of yew longbows, hence the name. Eboracum's fans are passionate and often like to make the V-sign at their opponents.
Why should you root for them: If you like an underdog, Heartwood's a good one. Similarly, if you like tormenting yourself by rooting for a good team that never seems to play up to it's potential, that's Heartwood. Better yet, you can yell at the manager and director for not utilizing your favorite player right, or spending too much on the wrong transfer. Kind of a cross between the Mets and the old-school Red Sox.

Club: Springs FC
City: Aquae Sulis
Colors: Bright blue and white, similar to Man City
League Titles: 0
Cup Titles: 1
Description: Springs is from the other mid-sized city in western Newfoundland, Aquae Sulis. They have a rivalry with Portus, though notably they care about it more than Portus does. Aquae Sulis is more of a laid-back, hot springs, touristy town than Portus' working-class identity. Like Heartwood, they like to attack, but even more. The key is their defense. When they defend, they can challenge for IFCF places. When they can't, bottom half of the league.
Why should you root for them: They're a decent mid-table club from a mid-sized city that plays exciting football where players are free to create. You always think that if they could get a bit more defense, they'd really challenge. Occasionally prone to massive Cup fuckups, so that's fun. Plus they have a machine that sprays hot spring water when they score.

Club: Castellum FC
City: Mancunium
Colors: Red and black
League Titles: 0
Cup Titles: 1
Description: This team comes from Mancunium, in the somewhat frozen north of Nova Anglicana, Labrador. Mancunium's home to a large Sky Guard (NA Air Force) base, and this club has always had military associations. Sometimes you even see fans sportingRoman armor in support. They are extremely defensive, to the point of neglecting offense at times. When they finish in the top half, they're going to be grinding out victories and avoiding losses.
Why should you root for them: They ain't pretty, but they're really annoying for other teams to play against. If you enjoy frustrating and pissing off your opponents because they can't ever seem to score, this is the club for you. Plus their typical modest success makes it fun when they occasionally make a Cup run or challenge the IFCF places.

Club: Labrador United FC
City: Mancunium
Colors: Sky blue, green, and white
League Titles: 1 (Yeoman)
Cup Titles: 0
Description: The other club from the Mancunium area, Labrador has never had the same military associations. The club is much more focused on a kind of Labrador self-reliance and wearing a chip on its shoulder for coming from a bit of a backwater province. Stylistically, the team is defensive, which usually keeps them in the Sovereign Division, but the owner is notoriously tight-fisted, which usually keeps them near the bottom.
Why should you root for them: Local players? The miserly proclivities of the owner mean that you can often see local Labrador
talent playing for this club. However, it's not usually great, and if it is, it's often sold off. They are capable of
occasionally surprising, such as Season 11's Cup semifinal run.

Club: FC St. Martin
City: Durovernum Cantiacorum
Colors: burgundy and white
League Titles: 1 (Yeoman)
Cup Titles: 0
Description: They come from the larger city of Durovernum Cantiacorum, the fifth-biggest in Nova Anglicana. Nicknamed the Horsemen, they have an actual man who dresses up in antique armor, carrying a sword and lance, at their home games. They play a swift, attacking, style that wins them plaudits for creativity if not for results on the pitch. They usually allow too many goals to be competitive. Though it hasn't always been so, the last few years have seen them at the bottom end of the table without necessarily being relegation battlers.
Why should you root for them: They're fun to watch! The attacking style, the mascot, even the poor defense can be entertaining at times. If you're picking St. Martin, you should be resigned to mid-table finishes at best, but never a dull season.

Club: Sporting Vinovium
City: Vinovium
Colors: Blue and gold, kind of like Boca Juniors
League Titles: 1 (Yeoman)
Cup Titles: 0
Description: Vinovium is the third city in the New Brunswick triangle after Newfield and Durovernum Cantiacorum, and the smallest. But it does boast a vibrant musical and cultural scene as well as host the provincial legislature. As for the football team, it feels like they have tried to emulate Newfield's style of play; but with fewer resources and worse players, they haven't nearly the same success. They are mostly mired in the bottom third of the league.
Why should you root for them: Because you like the underdog. The city of Vinovium is mostly terrible at all professional sports and can feel like a left-behind and overlooked place when it comes to that. To root for Vinovium is to stick with a bad team from a disrespected city that will mostly break your heart. But you so want them to do well; it's kind of like rooting for Cleveland sports teams.

Club: Lumberjacks FC
City: Vinovium
Colors: Green and gold, like the Portland Timbers
League Titles: 5 (Yeoman)
Cup Titles: 0
Description: Lumberjacks are the other club from Vinovium, a traditional Yeomen Division team. They draw more from around the city rather than in it, and are more of a working-class club (not that Sporting Vinovium is exclusive or snooty). They are the classic yo-yo club, having been promoted five times and relegated several times as well. They play a fairly attacking style which, when it's on, wins them the Yeoman Division or helps them avoid relegation. But they are capable of some truly dreadful football as well.
Why should you root for them: It's always exciting! If they're battling relegation, you're hanging on every point. If they're in the Yeoman Division, they're almost certainly in the thick of the promotion hunt. If they're safe from relegation, they're having a good season! Where Sporting Vinovium are boringly bad, but not so bad they are always in the relegation conversation, Lumberjacks are all over the map and rarely boring. Plus they've made the semifinals and final of the last two Cups.

Club: Londinium County FC
City: Londinium
Colors: Black and yellow, kind of like Watford
League Titles: 2 (Yeoman)
Cup Titles: 0
Description: County are from where it sounds like they are, the county of Londinium. They are more of a suburban club than Archbishop and Fishermans, and occupy a middle rung on the class ladder. Where Archbishop are high-class bankers, politicians, clergy, and celebrities, and Fishermans are workers trying to get a break from life, County are the petit-bourgeoisie strivers, the lower-middle and middle-class people just trying to make a nice home for themselves and their kids. Their games provide a family-friendly environment (you wouldn't take your daughter to a Fishermans game) for a reasonable price (unlike Archbishop).
Why should you root for them: They are almost always competitive in the Yeoman Division, but rarely break through. So this season in the Sovereign Division is incredibly important to them and you know they'll play their hearts out, especially since they were immediately relegated the last time they played. They've got spunk and talent and fire. Some deride them as being the club of the 'burbs, and therefore not really having avid supporters, just vapid soccer moms, but this is the club of the factory foreman, the mom and pop store, or the nurse.

Sovereign Division Rooting Flowchart

Yeoman Division Preview

Club: Olympique Sept-Iles
City: Sept-Iles
Colors: Royal blue and white with a fleur-de-lis
League Titles: 1 (Yeoman)
Cup Titles: 0
Description: Olympique, as they are often called, are from Sept-Iles, which is the major city of Nova Anglican Quebec. Sept-Iles is a city built on maritime pursuits, and can be rough-and-tumble at times. Their home stadium is a tough place to play, and their fan support is unparalleled. The players usually have interesting exploits off the pitch, and the teamitself is committed to an attacking style, even if it isn't terribly sophisticated. They scored the most goals of any team ever when they played in the Yeoman Division two years ago.
Why should you root for them: Because you like French-speakers who attack, often a little recklessly. Maybe you're drawn to the outsiders, the only major Francophone club in the country (there are other Francophone clubs, but they aren't as good). Maybe you want a redemption story, as this is the second time in three years Olympique will be battling for promotion. Even when they're in the Sovereign Division and not in trouble of being relegated, they rarely rise above eighth due to their leaky defense, so there are some issues with rooting for them.

Club: Isca Town FC
City: Isca Dumnoniorum
Colors: Dark blue and red stripes, kind of like Bologna
League Titles: 2 (Yeoman)
Cup Titles: 0
Description: Isca Town comes from Isca Dumnoniorum, the capital of the province of Prince Edward Island. PEI is a pretty laid-back place that derives a lot of revenue from tourism and is dedicated to preserving its natural beauty. Isca is the hub of the province, which contains a lot of farmland. The club of Isca Town is the pride of the city and especially the middle and upper class urbanites. They're very popular, even if they aren't terribly good.
Why should you root for them: When in the Sovereign Division, they're usually relegation battlers. Here in the Yeoman Division, it will be a disappointment if they don't win the title. They tied with County last time and lost in the promotion playoffs. They stand head and shoulders above most other clubs in the Division, but it will be a battle between them and Sept-Iles for promotion. Being an Isca Town fan means loving your smaller city on your fairly small island no matter what, and supporting your team through thick and thin, though mostly thin.

Club: Artisans FC
City: Eboracum
Colors: Burnt orange and white, like the University of Texas
League Titles: 1 (Yeoman)
Cup Titles: 0
Description: Artisans are the third club from Eboracum, behind Heartwood and City in notoriety. They have humble beginnings, starting as an after-work activity for the city's many potters and small craftsmen. Eventually they got good enough to go professional. They've come a long way from their roots in terms of players, but their fans are still lower to middle class.
Why should you root for them: Because you want to stick it to those snooty Sovereign Division types, but you don't want to root for City because they're terribad. Seriously though, Artisans are usually in the hunt for LBCT places and they have only made it up to the Sovereign Division once, so when they do, it's special.

Club: Comrades FC
City: Kings County, NB
Colors: Red and green
League Titles: 0
Cup Titles: 0
Description: Comrades are one of two teams in Kings County. They started as a factory workers' club, but eventually expanded to workers of all types before going professional. However, the club's origins are reflected in the fan base, which is made up of salt-of-the-earth types disdainful of higher ups in society, whether they be financial or cultural elites.
Why should you root for them: Because you like to see a real "working man's club." Comrades try to keep prices down and involve their supporters as much as practical in making decisions for the club. They can be exciting, and usually end up around midtable, though they often are on the outskirts of LBCT competition as well. If you want to thumb your nose at the elites in society, root for Comrades.

Club: Shepherds FC
City: Kings County, NB
Colors: Home all white (except for SFC crest), road blue and white, alternate white with red cross
League Titles: 0
Cup Titles: 0
Description: Also from Kings County, but much more of a rural club than Comrades, which tends to draw from the city. Named after the sheep farming and raising industry that has sprung up. The second meaning is the "Good shepherd", Jesus Christ. They are mildly attacking, and often have varying success.
Why should you root for them: Their fans are good, hardy people with kind hearts. Their footballers mostly are as well. It's a relatively small club from a fairly rural area that gets a real thrill any time they succeed. They recently made it to the quarterfinals of the last Cup, upsetting Archbishop along the way. If you want a fan base that supports its club through thick and thin without growing bitter or arrogant, you could do worse than Shepherds.

Club: Maritimes FC
City: Pons Aelius
Colors: Red, blue, and gold
League Titles: 0
Cup Titles: 0
Description: This is the navy's club, and there is a special exemption for graduates of the naval academy who are exceptional footballers to play for this squad before their service time begins. They play an attacking style, but their liberal use of former university players usually keeps them down in the standings. They did make a run to the Cup quarterfinals last year before getting unceremoniously dumped out by Heartwood. The ownership is separate from the Nova Anglican Sea Guard, but there is an understanding between the two.
Why should you root for them: If you've got relatives in the military, this really is the club for you. There is symbolism and patriotism everywhere at games. And the fans really are behind their team, given the location of a significant naval base in Pons Aelius. If you're stationed there or work in some way with the base, you root for Maritimes. Plus they can be aggressive in their footballing, so that's exciting. Mostly mid-table to lower mid-table.

Club: Fishermans FC
City: Londinium
Colors: Sea blue and silver
League Titles: 0
Cup Titles:0
Description: This is the third club from Londinium and, as the name suggests, draws support from people in the fishing industry of Newfoundland. This is a club who is blue-collar to their core. If you're a working-class individual aged 35 or older in Londinium, you probably root for Fishermans. Their games aren't family friendly, though. It's kind of like going to an Oakland Raiders game in the US. Die hards who aren't shy about roughing up opposing fans.
Why should you root for them: They recently emerged from the Third Division under new Quebecois ownership and are looking for success. If you want a comeback story, this is your best bet. They have loyal fans despite traditionally struggling. If you like defense, they can be a good club for you too.

Club: Homesteaders FC
City: Isca Dumnoniorum
Colors: Brown and white
League Titles: 0
Cup Titles: 0
Description: This is the second team from Prince Edward Island, but they're a bit more suburban and lower-middle class than Isca Town. The name hearkens back to settlers and farmers and the club is seen as a rough and tough side, with a bit of a sharper-edged play style than most NAFL teams. They have a tradition of hurling potatoes onto the pitch when a player scores a hat trick. That doesn't happen that often, as Homesteaders are more of a defensive side.
Why should you root for them: You like clubs that aren't afraid to mix it up on the pitch. You don't mind a club that doesn't succeed every year, because that makes the successes that much more meaningful. Plus who doesn't like potatoes?

Club: FC Mineurs
City: Sept-Iles
Colors: Blue and black
League Titles: 0
Cup Titles: 0
Description: The second team from Sept-Iles, their defensive strategy stands in stark contrast to their derby rival Olympique. The local mining community is behind them 100%, and it's not unusual to see dust-covered men in the stands. Mineurs often secure a lot of draws, and if they can manage enough offense, will compete for IFCF places. More often midtable.
Why should you root for them: You like good defense and relaxing with fellow hard-working people after a long day. Maybe you want to support a Francophone club, but Olympique is too up-and-down for you. You believe a 1-1 draw can be a work of art, and teams that can pull that off should be rewarded.

Club: FC Acadia
City: Gloucester County, NB
Colors: Blue and gold with three fleur-de-lis on the uniform
League Titles:0
Cup Titles: 0
Description: Hailing from Gloucester County, Acadia is an up and down team. The last four seasons have seen them get relegated from the Yeoman Division, get promoted back from the Third Division, finish fourth, and finish tenth. The Huntsmen are a defensive side, preferring to cut off their opponent's possession and tackle well. When they been able to score, they have challenged for LBCT places. They usually don't. They have a strong French rooting component.
Why should you root for them: You like bilingualism, destroyers, and control-oriented football. You don't mind if your team has trouble scoring. You'd rather experience the highs and lows than finish mid-table every season.

Club: FC Grande Vitesse
City: Dieppe
Colors: Orange and black
League Titles:0
Cup Titles: 0
Description: The newest Yeoman Division team, located near Noviomagus and named after the high-speed rail in the area. They are intending to be a club for the predominantly Francophone east side of the city of Noviomagus. They play a moderately attacking style and have finished near the bottom and near the top in their first two seasons.
Why should you root for them: They're new, they're exciting, they're not Newfield. This is the first expansion club in the Yeoman Division, and all eyes are on their success or failure. They have a fairly young team and have declared that they intend to play innovatively, compete for LBCT places every year and eventually earn promotion to the Sovereign Division. If you like a club that is trying to be on the cutting edge, Grande Vitesse is for you.

Club: First Nations FC
City: Labrador
Colors: Scarlet and white
League Titles: 0
Cup Titles: 0
Description: They draw from First Nations people, but they haven't contended for years. The current squad are ultra-attackers, and that usually costs them. They have no defense (they conceded 62 in 24 games last year). Definitely the third side in Labrador, behind Castellum and Labrador United.
Why should you root for them: Goals, I suppose. They're capable of winning 10-1 or losing 5-1, 7-0, 6-1, or 6-0, as they did last year. It can be exciting to be a First Nations fan, because there are always goals being scored and the team is almost always pressing forward and using three at the back. But it can also be depressing, because you're often on the wrong end of the scoreline, and the club is poor, so they have to rely on their development program or poaching promising players from the amateur Labrador leagues. Definitely an underdog side.

Club: Eboracum City FC
City: Eboracum
Colors: Black and white stripes, like Newcastle
League Titles: 0
Cup Titles: 0
Description: They're traditionally the second club from Eboracum, though in on-field results, they're third behind Heartwood and Artisans. City are perpetual cellar-dwellers, and finishing sixth is about the biggest thrill City fans have gotten in years. They are aggressive attackers, trying to mitigate their lack of talent by keeping their opponents off balance. However, this usually leads to poorly-defended counterattacks and a number of ugly losses.
Why should you root for them: You like losing? They rarely have success in the Yeoman Division and even flame out in the Cup quite often. But really, City fans are a bit like the Cubs before they got successful. You don't expect much from the team, and yet you're fanatically devoted to them. They have a decent kit and can usually avoid relegation.

Yeoman Division Rooting Flowchart

by **Nova Anglicana** » Sun Jul 05, 2020 8:16 am

NAFL Season 15 Derby Days

Preseason friendlies are nothing new, but for season 15, the NAFL hit upon the idea of having a few days for exclusively friendlies between rivals, or "Derby Days". Not every team will participate, but these aren't the only friendlies, so no worries. This will showcase rivalries and also allow for some derbies that don't take place in the regular season, such as between Sovereign and Yeoman Division teams. There will be accompanying pomp, fanfare, hype, and TV coverage for these friendlies as well.

Londinium Derby Days

Londinium County FC 2–0 Fishermans FC

Archbishop FC 5–5 Londinium County FC

Fishermans FC 0–2 Archbishop FC

The Londinium Derby features three teams, Archbishop, County, and Fishermans, or what you might call a three-ringed derby. All three teams are feeling good about themselves coming into the season, as County were promoted to the Sovereign Division for the first time in many years, Archbishop looks to contend for the title or at least an IFCF place, and Fishermans are back in the Yeoman Division after years in the Third Division. County starts off with a 2-0 home win over Fishermans, which is the level they need to compete in the higher division. But even better for County, is the 5-5 draw they secure against Archbishop at Kelly Park. A road draw against their rivals where they score freely? Jackpot! Archbishop are a bit disappointed in their defense and failure to win, but it was their A-minus side, after all. They salve their wounds a bit by defeating Fishermans on the road 2-0. County fans now have a reason to feel good about the two regular-season meetings with Archbishop.

Eboracum Derby Days

Artisans FC 2–5 Eboracum City FC

Heartwood FC 3–1 Artisans FC

Eboracum City FC 1–2 Heartwood FC

The Eboracum Derby is the second three-ringed derby, with Heartwood, Artisans, and City all taking part. Artisans and City are the only two who'll meet in the regular season this year, and City clearly came more prepared than Artisans for the Derby friendly. City earn a 5-2 road win, a massive thumping under the circumstances. Heartwood follows up with a 3-1 win at home over Artisans, leading management to do some last-minute scouting and training to ensure the side will be up to snuff in the Yeoman Division. Then, in a game that City fans rarely get to see, but always love, Heartwood visits City. City doesn't come away with a win, but it's an exciting game that sees the score level at one for nearly the entire second half until Heartwood breaks through in the 89th minute. Massive heartbreak for City, who are usually putrid, so even a friendly draw against Heartwood represents success.

Labrador Derby Days

Labrador United FC 6–0 First Nations FC

Castellum FC 1–0 Labrador United FC

First Nations FC 0–0 Castellum FC

And here we have our third three-ringed derby, the Labrador Derby Days. Labrador United and Castellum share Mancunium, while First Nations is a bit farther afield, but they all fight for the hearts of fans from Labrador. In the first game, Labrador United thump a First Nations side that gets a bit unlucky (own goal), a bit unsound (ill-timed attacks lead to easy Labrador counterattacks) and a bit aggressive (red card), leading the usually low-scoring side to put up six against the Yeoman Division side. In what most observers consider the top game of the Labrador Derby days, Castellum play their typical frustrating game, keeping Labrador United locked down and securing a late winner. Labrador will remember this for their two regular-season meetings. And finally, First Nations hosts a scoreless draw, a rare occurrence. Whether it was Castellum's stifling defense, their seeming indifference, or First Nations' fairly conservative strategy (they attacked, just not constantly, like usual), the game ended as it began.

West Newfoundland Derby

FC Portus 4–3 Springs FC

The West Newfoundland Derby yields an exciting friendly! Portus is not typically a high goal-scoring team, while Springs loves to get out and attack. The side from Aquae Sulis takes leads of 1-0 and 2-1 before the Portus Abonae side equalizes each time, leading to a 2-2 line at half. Portus takes the lead in the 58th minute, but Springs pulls even in the 73rd. With time running down, Portus decides to be unusually aggressive, since it's a friendly, and presses forward. They are rewarded in the 93rd minute with a beautiful header that just evades the grasp of the Springs goalkeeper and they snatch a victory at home in front of their fans, downing their rival. These teams will meet in the inaugural Super Cup next, Portus as winners of the Sovereign Division, and Springs as winners of the Nova Anglican Cup, before facing each other twice more in the Sovereign Division regular season.

Noviomagus Derby

Newfield FC 1–1 FC Gránde Vitesse

The Noviomagus derby is new, as Newfield and Gránde Vitesse have never actually met, whether in a Cup game or the regular season. Between the two teams, it's clearly Gránde Vitesse, as the new club, who's eager to prove their mettle. They attack for most of the game, while Newfield is content to play their A-minus side and sit back and defend. But a patented Newfield counterattack breaks down the Gránde Vitesse back line, and the home team has a 1-0 lead just before halftime. Gránde Vitesse continues to attack in the second, and are rewarded in the 74th minute with an equalizer. The game ends 1-1. It's a bit more aggressive than Gránde Vitesse usually play, but they were fired up and behind. For Newfield, it's a chance to work on defensive strategy more than anything else. We'll see if they meet again in the Cup.

Vinovium Derby

Lumberjacks FC 1–1 Sporting Vinovium

The Vinovium Derby has elements of urban/rural and class divide in it, as Vinovium is from the city and generally higher-class, while Lumberjacks is outside the city and well, lumberjacks. But the on-field performance isn't terribly different. Lumberjacks finished higher last year, and made it to the Cup final, while Vinovium lost to Heartwood in the Round of 16. There is a sense that Lumberjacks, the traditional Yeoman Division side, is starting to surpass Vinovium. So both sides are eager to prove or disprove that. It ends in a 1-1 draw, with Vinovium pulling even in the 82nd minute. An evenly matched game that bodes well for their two regular-season derbies.

Isca Dumnoniorum Derby

Isca Town FC 0–0 Homesteaders FC

The Isca Dumnoniorum Derby, sometimes called the Isca Town Derby, or just the Isca Derby, pits the urban Isca Town FC against the suburban/rural Homesteaders. Isca Town fans call the derby the Isca Town derby, since they think they own the rivalry advantage. Homesteaders fans will say Isca Derby or Isca Dumnoniorum Derby, not wanting to mention their rivals' name. This one's fairly fierce, as there is an urban/rural and middle/lower class divide between the two clubs. Isca Town's urbane, sophisticated, rich, while Homesteaders lacks social graces, money, or culture. Or you could say that Isca Town are a bunch of rich snobs, while Homesteaders are real people, and people of the land. Whatever floats your boat. In any case, this one's played to a cagey 0-0 draw. Neither side seems willing to play much more than a basic, conservative style. It disappoints the fans a bit, but not the managers. They'll meet twice more in the regular season, so each side doesn't want to reveal their strategy. Isca Town is angling for promotion, while Homesteaders would be an unlikely LBCT team, so spoiling it for Isca Town would bring them the most joy.

Pons Aelius Derby

Bridgewall City FC 1–1 Maritimes FC

The Pons Aelius Derby pits the military and associated communities against most of the rest of Pons Aelius. It's not one of the more hotly-contested derbies, and so perhaps it's no surprise it ends in a 1-1 draw. It's a friendly, and both sides regard it as such, playing hard but not overexerting themselves. Maritimes shocks Bridgewall by starting off with the lead in the 18th minute, but the Sovereign Division side pulls level just before half. The second half is mostly an excuse for both sides to test out substitutes or youth players. Some fans are disappointed that the derby isn't given more precedence in the strategy for both sides, but each manager cares more about development and avoiding injury than winning the rivalry game. If these two meet again, it will be in the Nova Anglican Cup.

Sept-Iles Derby

Olympique Sept-Iles 4–2 FC Mineurs

The Sept-Iles Derby has always had a class element to it; the management, upper crust, academics of Olympique against the miners and others of Mineurs. It's also got a significant style contrast to it; Olympique's constant attacking against Mineurs' defense and slow buildup. But at Stade Sept-Iles, Olympique leads at half and goes on to win 4-2. Mineurs had pulled back a goal in the first to enter halftime down 2-1, and closed to 3-2 in the 79th minute, but they couldn't find the equalizer. Stade Sept-Iles is notoriously raucous, and even more so when it's a rivalry game. A couple of fights broke out, but stadium security resolved them quickly and without incident. These two teams will be playing in the Yeoman Division this year, a change from usual. Olympique will be doing everything they can to get promoted, and you know Mineurs would love to deny them their return to the Sovereign Division.

Kings County Derby

Comrades FC 2–2 Shepherds FC

The Kings County Derby is a bit of an overlooked one, being contested between two Yeoman Division teams, but that doesn't mean it's any less of a rivalry. Urban vs. rural, socialists vs. sheep farmers, the battle lines are drawn between the two sides. But at Comrades' home park, it's a tightly contested match that sees Comrades take leads of 1-0 and 2-1, only to be drawn level each time by the Shepherds offense. Fans root and cheer lustily all game, and it feels like a match that will decide an LBCT place more than a preseason friendly. By the end of the game, everyone's exhausted and happy, having played their best for more than 90 minutes.

Super Cup

FC Portus 1–1 Springs FC

Nova Anglicana has never traditionally had a Super Cup, but with the formalization of Derby Days and the return to IFCF play, the NAFL decided it was time. And better yet, this inaugural Super Cup also happens to be a rematch of the West Newfoundland Derby. Played at Kelly Park in Londinium, home of Archbishop FC, this time Springs prevents the late winner and hold their rivals to a draw. Portus and Springs will meet twice more in the regular season, but one can be sure they will be extra hot matches because of the extra meetings of Derby Days and the Super Cup. With the Super Cup done, the season can officially begin.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Mon Jul 06, 2020 6:25 pm

NANFC Season 15 Results

Ligue.1 Ouest Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 St. Pierre-Madeleine FC      16  7  4  5  18  13  +5  25 Ouest Champions
 2 Sept-Rivieres SC             16  7  3  6  27  20  +7  24
 3 AS Saint Jean-Minganie       16  6  5  5  15  14  +1  23
 4 AS Anticosti                 16  5  6  5  17  14  +3  21
 5 Tonnere FC                   16  5  3  8  15  24  -9  18
 6 SC Chemin de Fer             16  4  4  8   9  16  -7  16

Ligue.1 Est Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 SC Vieux-Fort                16 10  2  4  18  11   +7  32 Est and Ligue.1 Champions
 2 Golfe-Nord FC                16  9  2  5  27  13  +14  29
 3 SC Ile-du-Sterne             16  7  4  5  22  21   +1  25
 4 AS Metis Saint-Augustin      16  7  3  6  19  19   +0  24
 5 Mont Parent FC               16  4  3  9  17  27  -10  15
 6 AS La Tabatiere              16  4  3  9  22  34  -12  15

Coupe de Cote-Nord Final

Golfe-Nord FC 1–1 AS Saint Jean-Minganie (2–1 AET)

Division East Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 Grenfell Hospitallers        15  8  3  4  18  11   +7  27
 2 Saint Lewis Icebergs FC      15  6  7  2  12   7   +5  25
 3 Alexis Bay FC                15  6  5  4  13  11   +2  23
 4 North West Pioneers FC       15  6  4  5  14  14   +0  22
 5 Cartwright 1775 FC           15  3  6  6  15  16   -1  15
 6 Sheshatshiu Future FC        15  1  5  9  11  24  -13   8

Division West Standings

Team                                   P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Kamistaitusset FC                     15  6  6  3  17  17  +0  24
 2 Labrador City FC                      15  7  2  6  25  22  +3  23
 3 Wabush Iron FC                        15  6  4  5  13  12  +1  22
 4 FC Kapwa Pilipinas                    15  6  4  5  25  24  +1  22
 5 FC Hydroelectric Churchill Falls      15  6  3  6  15  12  +3  21
 6 Aurores Boreales FC                   15  2  5  8  17  25  -8  11

Division North Standings

Team                         P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 FC Agvituk                  15  5  7  3  15  10  +5  22
 2 Rigolet Southern FC         15  6  3  6  19  24  -5  21
 3 Natsuasish Innu FC          15  5  5  5  23  20  +3  20
 4 KippukKak-Postville FC      15  6  2  7  20  20  +0  20
 5 FC Northern Rangers         15  5  5  5  24  24  +0  20
 6 Makkovik Norsk FC           15  5  4  6  22  25  -3  19

Division South Standings

Team                 P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Devils Cove FC      15  8  3  4  18  12  +6  27
 2 Seawolves FC        15  8  3  4  18  17  +1  27
 3 FC Forteau          15  6  3  6  12  14  -2  21
 4 Clearwater FC       15  4  6  5  22  20  +2  18
 5 FC Redcliff         15  3  7  5  11  15  -4  16
 6 South Coast FC      15  4  2  9  13  16  -3  14

Labrador Championship

Semifinals

Devils Cove FC 1–2 Grenfell Hospitallers
FC Agvituk 0–0 Kamistaitusset FC (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.)

Finals

FC Agvituk 0–1 Grenfell Hospitallers

Nunatsuak Cup Final

FC Agvituk 1–0 South Coast FC

New Brunswick Premier League Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 FC Cor Unum Grand Sault      14  7  1  6  18  16  +2  22
 2 Shediac FC                   14  6  4  4  18  17  +1  22
 3 Gondola Point FC             14  6  3  5  21  16  +5  21
 4 FC Sackville                 14  4  7  3  18  16  +2  19
 5 Belle Vallée FC              14  5  3  6  23  22  +1  18
 6 AS Shippagan                 14  4  6  4  15  11  +4  18
 7 177 FC                       14  4  5  5  12  21  -9  17
 8 SC Sugarloaf                 14  3  5  6  11  17  -6  14 relegated

New Brunswick Championship Standings

Team                        P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 Hub City FC                14  9  0  5  23  16   +7  27 promoted
 2 Moosehead FC               14  7  4  3  21  14   +7  25
 3 Kennebecasis FC            14  5  5  4  21  18   +3  20
 4 AFC Gagetown               14  5  5  4  17  12   +5  20
 5 FC Érable Restigouche      14  4  6  4  16  15   +1  18
 6 Minto Power FC             14  4  4  6  19  24   -5  16
 7 FC Baie des Chaleurs       14  4  3  7  13  25  -12  15
 8 Shiretown FC               14  3  3  8  20  26   -6  12

Coupe d'Espoir/Cup of Hope Final

FC Cor Unum Grand Sault 0–0 Gondola Point FC (1–0 AET)

Nova Scotia A-League Standings

Team                         P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 Bridgewater LaHave FC       14  6  7  1  18   8  +10  25
 2 Suidni Gaels FC             14  6  5  3  21  14   +7  23
 3 Walton Alabaster FC         14  5  5  4  15  13   +2  20
 4 Kentville Station FC        14  4  7  3  16  12   +4  19
 5 AFC 11th of June            14  4  6  4   9   6   +3  18
 6 Windsor Pumpkins FC         14  4  3  7  15  28  -13  15
 7 Shelburne Shipyards FC      14  2  7  5   9  13   -4  13
 8 Pictou Thistle FC           14  3  4  7  12  21   -9  13 relegated

Nova Scotia B-League Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 John Gorham Rangers FC       14  7  4  3  18  16  +2  25 promoted
 2 Amherst Isthmians            14  6  5  3  14   7  +7  23
 3 Royal Annapolis FC           14  5  5  4  15  18  -3  20
 4 County Digby FC              14  5  5  4  19  16  +3  20
 5 Bible Hill FC                14  6  2  6  14  13  +1  20
 6 Am Baile Mor Athletic        14  4  5  5  16  14  +2  17
 7 MacKinnon Argyle             14  3  4  7  15  23  -8  13
 8 Colchester Stewiacke FC      14  2  6  6  12  16  -4  12

Bluenose Cup Final

Suidni Gaels FC 4–2 John Gorham Rangers FC

PEI Super League Standings

Team                         P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 FC Souris                   14  8  2  4  29  26  +3  26
 2 Queens County South FC      14  6  4  4  22  20  +2  22
 3 Tignish Wild Geese FC       14  6  3  5  28  25  +3  21
 4 Barrett's Cross FC          14  5  3  6  16  19  -3  18
 5 Three Rivers FC             14  5  2  7  19  25  -6  17
 6 North Shore FC              14  5  2  7  21  19  +2  17
 7 Hearts of Alberton FC       14  4  5  5  15  16  -1  17
 8 Racing Summerside           14  4  5  5  16  16  +0  17 relegated

PEI Confederation League Standings

Team                              P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Georgetown Dockers FC            14  9  2  3  17  10  +7  29 promoted
 2 The Crick FC                     14  8  3  3  17   9  +8  27
 3 New Linfield FC                  14  8  1  5  12   9  +3  25
 4 Rocky Point FC                   14  4  6  4   7   9  -2  18
 5 FC O'Leary                       14  5  3  6  14  17  -3  18
 6 Miltonvale Park Spartans FC      14  4  3  7   6  10  -4  15
 7 Atlantic Link FC                 14  4  3  7  17  17  +0  15
 8 FC Cornwall                      14  2  3  9   5  14  -9   9

Spud Cup Final

Queens County South FC 0–1 Georgetown Dockers FC

Newfoundland First Division Standings

Team                         P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 John Nutt FC                14  8  3  3  28  18  +10  27
 2 Londinium Celtic FC         14  8  3  3  26  11  +15  27
 3 White Fleet FC              14  6  3  5  15  21   -6  21
 4 Conception Bay West FC      14  6  2  6  15  18   -3  20
 5 North Avalon FC             14  4  7  3  16  14   +2  19
 6 The Mount FC                14  3  6  5  16  17   -1  15
 7 Garden City FC              14  3  3  8  14  23   -9  12
 8 Volet Gander FC             14  2  5  7  12  20   -8  11

Newfoundland Second Division Standings

Team                            P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 Paradise Hibernians FC         14  8  2  4  24  14  +10  26
 2 Wolf Cove FC                   14  6  5  3  16  10   +6  23
 3 Athletic Port-aux-Basques      14  6  3  5  16  17   -1  21
 4 Bishop's Falls FC              14  6  3  5  20  17   +3  21
 5 Placentia Bohemians FC         14  6  1  7  31  22   +9  19
 6 Burnt Bay FC                   14  4  4  6  14  21   -7  16
 7 AC Bonavista                   14  4  3  7  15  26  -11  15
 8 Terra Nova FC                  14  3  5  6  19  28   -9  14

Cabot Cup Final

John Nutt FC 0–4 Garden City FC

Belle Isle Cup Final

FC Agvituk 0–3 Garden City FC

National Football Conference Championship

Play-in Round

FC Cor Unum Grand Sault 1–0 Bridgewater LaHave FC
Grenfell Hospitallers 1–1 FC Souris (2–1 AET)

Semifinals

SC Vieux-Fort 1–0 FC Cor Unum Grand Sault
John Nutt FC 1–0 Grenfell Hospitallers

Finals

John Nutt FC 0–0 SC Vieux-Fort (2–0 AET)

NA Trophy Final (Kelly Park, Londinium)

Garden City FC 1–1 Suidni Gaels FC (3–1 AET)

by **Nova Anglicana** » Tue Jul 07, 2020 7:38 am

Season 15 Academy Division Results

Sovereign Division Standings

Team                                     P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Newfield FC Academy                  12  8  1  3  23  18   +5  25 Champions
  2 Sanctuary Rising FC                  12  7  2  3  15  10   +5  23
  3 Heartwood FC Academy                 12  7  1  4  24  14  +10  22
  4 Springs YDP19                        12  6  2  4  25  22   +3  20
  5 FC Portus U19                        12  5  5  2  15  10   +5  20
  6 Archbishop FC Academy                12  5  4  3  19  17   +2  19
  7 Bridgewall City Academy              12  6  1  5  10  13   -3  19
  8 FC St. Martin Academy                12  5  2  5  26  22   +4  17
  9 Labrador United Academy              12  5  2  5  14  12   +2  17
 10 FC Young Lumberjacks                 12  5  0  7  16  15   +1  15
 11 Castellum FC Academy                 12  4  1  7  11  15   -4  13
 12 19.FC Londinium County               12  1  3  8  17  34  -17   6
 13 Vinovium United Academy Premier      12  1  2  9  11  24  -13  5

In the second season of the Academy Division, Newfield nips Sanctuary Rising to take the title. The youth team from Rutupiae had a chance to tie Newfield on the last day of the season, but could only manage a draw against Castellum, leaving them two points behind. Newfield will play in the Rising Stars Cup, a chance to prove themselves against some of the best young footballers in the world. Meanwhile, County and Vinovium's youth teams play especially poorly, finishing seven and eight points, respectively, behind their nearest competitor. County's youth team concedes 34 goals, an ignominious feat in 12 games.

Yeoman Division Standings

Team                               P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Shepherds FC Academy          12  9  0  3  25  11  +14  27
  2 Apprentices FC                12  8  2  2  29  15  +14  26
  3 Maritimes FC Cadets           12  7  1  4  19  16   +3  22
  4 Jeunesse Sept-Îles            12  7  1  4  19  14   +5  22
  5 Académie Grande Vitesse       12  7  0  5  25  22   +3  21
  6 Isca Town Young Boys          12  5  3  4  18  11   +7  18
  7 FC Acadia Youth               12  5  2  5  11  10   +1  17
  8 Comrades FC Academy           12  4  4  4  12  13   -1  16
  9 Fishermans FC Academy         12  3  3  6   7   9   -2  12
 10 Eboracum City Academy         12  3  2  7  17  31  -14  11
 11 FC Mineurs Académique         12  3  2  7   9  15   -6  11
 12 Homesteaders FC Pioneers      12  3  2  7   9  15   -6  11
 13 First Nations Future FC       12  1  4  7   7  25  -18   7

Shepherds' youth team goes from 10th to champions! They're actually quite fortunate to be declared champions, as they lost to 12th place Pioneers on the last day. Fortunately for them, Apprentices, their closest competitor, fell 3-2 to Gránde Vitesse, handing Shepherds the title. FC Mineurs Académique, last year's champions, fall to 11th in a disappointing result, while First Nations Future goes from fifth to last.

But we all know that Academy Division play is only the warm-up for the real show: the Academy Cup. This year, Halifax Shamrocks, Pointe-Noire Stars, The Battery, Reversing Rapids FC, AFC West Royalty, and Yarmouth Athletic Club were the lucky non-Academy Division sides who qualified for the Academy Cup. Let the Cup begin!

First Round
Newfield FC Academy 1–0 Yarmouth Athletic Club
Yarmouth Athletic Club 0–3 Newfield FC Academy (0-4 aggregate)

Maritimes FC Cadets 2–2 Jeunesse Sept-Îles
Jeunesse Sept-Îles 1–3 Maritimes FC Cadets (3-5 aggregate)

FC St. Martin Academy 0–3 Homesteaders FC Pioneers
Homesteaders FC Pioneers 2–2 FC St. Martin Academy (5-2 aggregate)

Labrador United Academy 0–1 FC Mineurs Académique
FC Mineurs Académique 1–0 Labrador United Academy (2-0 aggregate)

Springs YDP19 2–0 The Battery
The Battery 0–1 Springs YDP19 (0-3 aggregate)

Vinovium United Academy Premier 1–0 FC Acadia Youth
FC Acadia Youth 1–2 Vinovium United Academy Premier (1-3 aggregate)

FC Portus U19 3–0 Pointe-Noire Stars
Pointe-Noire Stars 1–5 FC Portus U19 (1-8 aggregate)

19.FC Londinium County 1–1 Comrades FC Academy
Comrades FC Academy 2–0 19.FC Londinium County (3-1 aggregate)

Archbishop FC Academy 2–1 Halifax Shamrocks
Halifax Shamrocks 1–5 Archbishop FC Academy (2-7 aggregate)

Castellum FC Academy 1–0 Fishermans FC Academy
Fishermans FC Academy 0–1 Castellum FC Academy (0-2 aggregate)

Shepherds FC Academy 0–0 Isca Town Young Boys
Isca Town Young Boys 3–0 Shepherds FC Academy (3-0 aggregate)

Heartwood FC Academy 2–5 Reversing Rapids FC
Reversing Rapids FC 4–7 Heartwood FC Academy (9-9 aggregate, Heartwood advances on away goals rule)

Bridgewall City Academy 1–0 First Nations Future FC
First Nations Future FC 1–3 Bridgewall City Academy (1-4 aggregate)

FC Young Lumberjacks 3–0 Eboracum City Academy
Eboracum City Academy 1–3 FC Young Lumberjacks (1-6 aggregate)

Apprentices FC 0–2 Académie Grande Vitesse
Académie Grande Vitesse 3–1 Apprentices FC (5-1 aggregate)

Sanctuary Rising FC 3–0 AFC West Royalty
AFC West Royalty 1–3 Sanctuary Rising FC (1-6 aggregate)

None of the amateur or non-academy clubs manage to drop an academy team, though Reversing Rapids did put Heartwood in a tight spot. Their 5-2 first-leg win meant that Heartwood had to win by four goals, or win by three while scoring at least six to advance. That latter route is the one they chose, winning a wild 7-4 game that saw them advance on away goals. Pioneers and Mineurs upset Sovereign Division academies to make it to the Round of 16, and Comrades scores a victory over County; they'll meet Portus in the Round of 16.

Round of 16
Newfield FC Academy 3–0 Maritimes FC Cadets
Maritimes FC Cadets 0–0 Newfield FC Academy (0-3 aggregate)

FC Mineurs Académique 2–0 Homesteaders FC Pioneers
Homesteaders FC Pioneers 1–0 FC Mineurs Académique (1-2 aggregate)

Springs YDP19 2–2 Vinovium United Academy Premier
Vinovium United Academy Premier 1–2 Springs YDP19 (3-4 aggregate)

FC Portus U19 1–0 Comrades FC Academy
Comrades FC Academy 1–2 FC Portus U19 (1-3 aggregate)

Archbishop FC Academy 0–0 Castellum FC Academy
Castellum FC Academy 0–0 Archbishop FC Academy (0-0 AET, 0-1 PKs)

Heartwood FC Academy 3–1 Isca Town Young Boys
Isca Town Young Boys 1–0 Heartwood FC Academy (2-3 aggregate)

Bridgewall City Academy 1–5 FC Young Lumberjacks
FC Young Lumberjacks 0–0 Bridgewall City Academy (5-1 aggregate)

Sanctuary Rising FC 3–1 Académie Grande Vitesse
Académie Grande Vitesse 1–3 Sanctuary Rising FC (2-6 aggregate)

Things go pretty easily for our top two seeds, Newfield and Sanctuary; they both win without too much trouble. Portus isn't bothered either. But Springs and Archbishop need road wins to advance, while Heartwood hangs on despite losing the return leg to Isca Town. Meanwhile, Lumberjacks makes it look easy against Bridgewall, routing them 5-1 in the first leg and holding them to a scoreless draw in the return leg. Mineurs takes down Pioneers in a game that will decide who gets slaughtered by Newfield.

Quarterfinals
Newfield FC Academy 1–0 FC Mineurs Académique
FC Mineurs Académique 1–2 Newfield FC Academy (1-3 aggregate)

Springs YDP19 0–0 FC Portus U19
FC Portus U19 1–0 Springs YDP19 (1-0 aggregate)

Heartwood FC Academy 1–2 Archbishop FC Academy
Archbishop FC Academy 1–2 Heartwood FC Academy (1-4 AET, 3-5 aggregate)

Sanctuary Rising FC 4–3 FC Young Lumberjacks
FC Young Lumberjacks 4–4 Sanctuary Rising FC (7-8 aggregate)

Newfield doesn't have too much trouble with Mineurs, though it is competitive. A West Newfoundland Derby ends with Portus taking the second leg and scoring the only goal in the two-legged tie to advance to the semifinals. Archbishop and Heartwood trade 2-1 road wins until Heartwood finds the net twice in AET to advance, while a late equalizer for Sanctuary Rising in Vinovium assures them a tie and advancement over Young Lumberjacks.

Semifinals

Newfield FC Academy 1–0 FC Portus U19
FC Portus U19 0–3 Newfield FC Academy (0-4 aggregate)

Sanctuary Rising FC 0–1 Heartwood FC Academy
Heartwood FC Academy 1–0 Sanctuary Rising FC (2-0 aggregate)

Newfield and Portus are two senior teams challenging each other for the top spot in the Sovereign Division, but Newfield's academy puts paid to Portus with a 3-0 road victory that showcases their supremacy. In the other semifinal, Heartwood wins 1-0 twice over Sanctuary to advance to the Cup final. Heartwood's senior team would kill to be in this position, but they'll just have to root for their academy and bide their time.

Academy Cup Final (Kelly Park, Londinium)

Newfield FC Academy 0–0 Heartwood FC Academy (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.)

You might think there would be more goals between these two sides, but nobody can break through until penalties, when Heartwood's four conversions beat Newfield's three and let them raise the Academy Cup. This is a big win for Heartwood's academy; hopefully they'll graduate some players and boost an underachieving senior side. They will also play in the Rising Stars Cup for the first time.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Tue Jul 07, 2020 9:40 am

NAFL Season 15: Part 1

Season 15 is Nova Anglicana's return to IFCF play. This one's for all the marbles. International money, fame, glory, maybe the chance to attract some foreign talent. But who will take the lead early?

MATCHDAY 1
FC Portus 6-1 Londinium County FC
Castellum FC 2-0 Labrador United FC
Bridgewall City FC 2-1 Sporting Vinovium FC
Newfield Athletic 3-2 Sanctuary FC
Archbishop FC 4-1 Lumberjacks FC
Heartwood FC 0-1 FC St. Martin

Welcome back to the Sovereign Division, Londinium County! Portus isn't naturally a six-goal side, but County slips up and gets whacked. Nerves were apparently a factor. Castellum takes down Labrador in the Labrador Derby, while Bridgewall holds off Vinovium at home. Newfield vanquishes Sanctuary in an early test, while Archbishop cruises past Lumberjacks at home. In the only upset of the round, St. Martin trips up Heartwood in a surprisingly low-scoring game for the two usually aggressive sides.

MATCHDAY 2
Londinium County FC 0-0 Springs FC
Sporting Vinovium 1-1 FC Portus
Sanctuary FC 1-0 Castellum FC
Lumberjacks FC 0-0 Bridgewall City FC
FC St. Martin 2-6 Newfield Athletic
Heartwood FC 3-1 Archbishop FC

The first four games are mostly low-scoring snoozefests, though County holding Springs to a scoreless draw, Vinovium tying Portus, and Lumberjacks tying Bridgewall are notable successes for the home team in each match. Whatever early confidence St. Martin had is quickly wiped away as Newfield puts six past the hapless Horsemen keeper, while Archbishop are rudely shown off 3-1 at Heartwood. It's not the way Archbishop expected this game to go, and it injects a massive boost of confidence into a Heartwood side that lost its first home match.

MATCHDAY 3
Springs FC 4-1 Labrador United FC
Londinium County FC 1-2 Sporting Vinovium
FC Portus 2-0 Lumberjacks FC
Castellum FC 0-0 FC St. Martin
Bridgewall City FC 1-0 Heartwood FC
Newfield Athletic 2-4 Archbishop FC

The premier match of Matchday 3 is, of course, Newfield home to Archbishop. The first half, while hotly contested, is mostly a warmup for the second half. After being level at one at the half, Archbishop scores off of a couple of set pieces in the first twenty minutes before Newfield pulls one back with a beautiful cross into the box and a well-timed header. It continues 3-2 until the 88th minute, when a penalty against Newfield is called and Archbishop's top striker buries one into the upper left corner to seal the deal. It's a massive early win for the Londinium club. Elsewhere, Springs easily takes down Labrador, Londinium experiences disappointment at home as they lose to Vinovium, and Bridgewall arrests Heartwood's momentum in the Eboracum side's first road game. Vinovium are one of the few teams County had hoped to compete on equal footing with, so a home loss is demoralizing. Portus takes care of Lumberjacks, no problem, and Castellum bottles up St. Martin's attack to earn a draw.

MATCHDAY 4
Sporting Vinovium 1-1 Springs FC
Sanctuary FC 2-2 Labrador United FC
Lumberjacks FC 3-0 Londinium County FC
Heartwood FC 1-2 FC Portus
Archbishop FC 0-1 Castellum FC
Newfield Athletic 1-1 Bridgewall City FC

I suppose you have to lead with the shocking result out of Londinium. Fresh off a 4-2 win over Newfield, Archbishop returns home to face typically lower-half Castellum, and succumbs 1-0. The only goal was off of a deflected free kick in the 37th minute, and once they got the lead, Castellum turtled to frustrate Archbishop's attack and escape with the 1-0 win. Newfield drops more points at home to Bridgewall, while Springs and Sanctuary had hoped to earn three points against weaker sides, but have to settle for one. County drops another winnable (or at least drawable) game against Lumberjacks in pretty poor fashion. It just shows you what consistent Sovereign Division exposure can do to a former Yeoman Division side, as Lumberjacks have put their increased revenues to good use. Finally, Portus wins on the road against Heartwood, dropping the Eboracum side to a disappointing 1-0-3 early on.

MATCHDAY 5
Springs FC 1-6 Sanctuary FC
Sporting Vinovium 0-1 Lumberjacks FC
Labrador United FC 1-0 FC St. Martin
Londinium County FC 0-2 Heartwood FC
FC Portus 1-0 Newfield Athletic
Castellum FC 0-1 Bridgewall City FC

Whoof. Springs and Sanctuary are two traditionally competitive teams, but Sanctuary just came into Aquae Sulis and laid a smackdown on Springs. That's going to sting for a while. Meanwhile, Portus beats Newfield, dropping the Noviomagus side to 2-1-2 early on. Are we in for another Portus league victory and surprisingly bad Newfield season? Bridgewall wins the matchup of defensive teams, while Labrador throttles St. Martin's offense. Lumberjacks wins the Vinovium Derby, and County loses again at home, this time to an up-and-down Heartwood team. They are 0-1-4 to begin the season.

MATCHDAY 6
Lumberjacks FC 1-1 Springs FC
FC St. Martin 0-2 Sanctuary FC
Heartwood FC 3-1 Sporting Vinovium
Archbishop FC 3-1 Labrador United FC
Newfield Athletic 2-0 Londinium County FC
Castellum FC 0-0 FC Portus

No real surprises here, unless you count Lumberjacks holding Springs to a draw, or Castellum tying Portus. Though, Castellum being involved in a scoreless draw, especially against a fellow defensive side, is never really a surprise. Otherwise, Sanctuary and Newfield take 2-0 wins over lowly St. Martin and County, while Heartwood and Archbishop vanquish Vinovium and Labrador 3-1.

MATCHDAY 7
Springs FC 4-1 FC St. Martin
Lumberjacks FC 1-1 Heartwood FC
Sanctuary FC 0-3 Archbishop FC
Sporting Vinovium 0-5 Newfield Athletic
Labrador United FC 0-2 Bridgewall City FC
Londinium County FC 2-3 Castellum FC

In what probably was expected to be the most competitive game today, Archbishop turns the match in Rutupiae into somewhat of a laugher, winning 3-0 in complete fashion. Sanctuary were outshot, outpossessed, and outplayed. They'll get Bridgewall next, so they'd better shape up. Meanwhile, Newfield goes to Vinovium and blows the doors off the place, winning 5-0 and dropping Vinovium to just 1-2-4. Springs routs St. Martin and Bridgewall easily disposes of Labrador in not terribly close game. Finally, Lumberjacks holds Heartwood to a draw, and County experiences heartbreak at home against Castellum. It was tied 2-2 going into stoppage time when a silly foul gave Castellum a set piece opportunity that they converted on, driving a dagger into the heart of County fans. They have just one point from their first seven games.

MATCHDAY 8
Heartwood FC 1-1 Springs FC
Archbishop FC 1-0 FC St. Martin
Newfield Athletic 4-1 Lumberjacks FC
Bridgewall City FC 1-1 Sanctuary FC
Castellum FC 1-0 Sporting Vinovium
FC Portus 1-1 Labrador United FC

Sanctuary bounces back, somewhat, from their 3-0 loss at home to earn a tough road point at Bridgewall. Pons Aelius is not an easy place to play, and Bridgewall are a physical side, but Sanctuary emerge with the draw. Heartwood and Springs play to a fairly tame 1-1 draw, while Portus drops points at home to a Labrador side that played technically sound, if not terribly inventive football. Newfield routs Lumberjacks, while Archbishop slips by St. Martin in a tougher than expected game. The Horsemen, since defeating Heartwood in game one, are just 0-1-5 with three goals scored, a poor run of form. Finally, Castellum takes down Vinovium and is a surprisingly competitive 4-2-2 so far.

MATCHDAY 9
Springs FC 3-1 Archbishop FC
Heartwood FC 1-1 Newfield Athletic
FC St. Martin 0-2 Bridgewall City FC
Lumberjacks FC 0-0 Castellum FC
Sanctuary FC 0-0 FC Portus
Labrador United FC 1-0 Londinium County FC

Yowch. Archbishop and Newfield both drop points, though Archbishop drops more, heading across Newfoundland to get spanked by Springs in the second half after leading 1-0 at the half. Heartwood plays well in holding Newfield to a draw. They are 2-3-0 in their last five games, a good run. Sanctuary and Portus battle to a draw in a game that's more to Portus' liking; Lumberjacks and Castellum do the same thing, foiling Lumberjacks' hopes for three points at home. A road game at Labrador presented a fine opportunity for County to earn their first win, but Labrador's defensive strategy foils their attempts and they fall 1-0. Finally, Bridgewall vanquishes St. Martin to keep them near the bottom of the league.

MATCHDAY 10
Newfield Athletic 1-3 Springs FC
Bridgewall City FC 1-1 Archbishop FC
Castellum FC 0-2 Heartwood FC
FC Portus 2-0 FC St. Martin
Londinium County FC 4-1 Sanctuary FC
Labrador United FC 0-0 Sporting Vinovium

Will you look at that? Fresh off of defeating Archbishop 3-1, Springs goes to Newfield and takes them down 3-1. If they're beating Archbishop and Newfield, this could be a special season for Springs. The other shocker is County earning their first win in spectacular fashion over Sanctuary. The fans roar for their first Sovereign Division win in quite some time, cheering the balanced attack and good defense that lifts them into a tie with St. Martin for the time being. Bridgewall hosts Archbishop, and a couple of hard fouls lead to Bridgewall playing down a man for 30 minutes. They protest the referees' "quick whistle", but they manage well enough, holding the Londinium side to a draw. Heartwood and Portus vanquish surprising Castellum and lowly St. Martin 2-0, while Labrador and Vinovium play to a listless 0-0 draw.

MATCHDAY 11
Springs FC 1-0 Bridgewall City FC
Newfield Athletic 2-0 Castellum FC
Archbishop FC 4-1 FC Portus
FC St. Martin 1-1 Londinium County FC
Lumberjacks FC 4-0 Labrador United FC
Sanctuary FC 0-1 Sporting Vinovium

Archbishop routs Portus in Kelly Park, a big win over last year's champions for the Londinium side that has lost three games so far. Portus' manager blames it on being out of sorts and pitch conditions, but it's a bad loss nonetheless. Sanctuary loses its second straight to bottom of the table sides, as Vinovium comes to Rutupiae and wins 1-0. Springs manages to slip a goal past Bridgewall to earn the win, while Newfield dispatches of Castellum with little trouble. Finally, Lumberjacks routs Labrador, an outburst that must feel fun for the Vinovium side, and the matchup of cellar-dwellers St. Martin and County ends inconclusively.

MATCHDAY 12
Castellum FC 0-3 Springs FC
FC Portus 0-0 Bridgewall City FC
Londinium County FC 2-6 Archbishop FC
Labrador United FC 2-0 Heartwood FC
Sporting Vinovium 1-2 FC St. Martin
Sanctuary FC 1-0 Lumberjacks FC

Portus and Bridgewall play to a scoreless draw in Portus Abonae, in just about the only game between IFCF-hoping teams today. Sanctuary avoids losing a third straight to a team they shouldn't, while Heartwood takes a nasty tumble against a Labrador team they wish they'd beaten. Springs goes into Mancunium and puts three into the net, no easy feat, while St. Martin gets off the schneid by beating Vinovium. That has to feel good for a side that hasn't won since the first game. Finally, the Londinium Derby sees Archbishop rout County. It was 4-0 at half, so that pretty much put paid to any excitement. But County can feel good about holding level 2-2 in the second half. Any progress is good for them.

MATCHDAY 13
Springs FC 0-1 FC Portus
Bridgewall City FC 0-3 Londinium County FC
Newfield Athletic 2-0 Labrador United FC
Archbishop FC 2-4 Sporting Vinovium
Heartwood FC 0-1 Sanctuary FC
FC St. Martin 2-1 Lumberjacks FC[/spoiler]

Couple of upsets today! First of all, County claims their second win of the year (and second upset) by going to Pons Aelius and scoring 3 goals against Bridgewall. Give a lot of credit to this County side; Bridgewall is a nasty place to play, and especially for sides recently promoted from the Yeoman Division. Additionally, Vinovium goes into Kelly Park and takes down Archbishop, 4-2. Add this loss to the MD4 loss to Castellum in the "embarrassing results" column. Portus beats Springs in the West Newfoundland Derby, and Sanctuary vanquishes Heartwood in a competitive game. Newfield cruises by Labrador, and St. Martin closes the first half with their second win in a row, taking down Lumberjacks in front of the home fans.

Sovereign Division Standings

Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Newfield Athletic      12    7   2   3    29   15  +14    23
 2 FC Portus              12    6   5   1    17    8   +9    23
 3 Archbishop FC          12    7   1   4    30   19  +11    22
 4 Springs FC             12    6   4   2    22   14   +8    22
 5 Bridgewall City FC     12    5   5   2    11    8   +3    20
 6 Sanctuary FC           12    5   3   4    17   15   +2    18
 7 Heartwood FC           12    4   3   5    14   12   +2    15
 8 Castellum FC           12    4   3   5     7   11   −4    15
 9 Lumberjacks FC         12    3   4   5    13   15   −2    13
10 Sporting Vinovium      12    3   3   6    12   19   −7    12
11 Labrador United FC     12    3   3   6     9   20  −11    12
12 FC St. Martin          12    3   2   7     9   21  −12    11
13 Londinium County FC    12    2   2   8    14   27  −13     8

So where do we stand after 12 matches? Newfield, Portus, Archbishop, and Springs are all within one point of each other and competing not just for an IFCF place, but a spot in the Champions' League. Newfield are looking healthy, while Portus has been doing a good job of avoiding losses. Archbishop certainly regrets those losses to Castellum and Vinovium, or else they'd be on top right now. Springs are chugging along, twin 3-1 wins over Archbishop and Newfield keeping them in contention. Bridgewall's defense continues to keep them in it, and Sanctuary would be more in the IFCF conversation had they not lost to County and Vinovium.

In the bottom half, Heartwood's gone a respectable 3-2-2 since their rough start, while Castellum, despite their good defense, has gone the opposite direction since their 4-2-2 start. Nevertheless, the two sides remain outside shots at IFCF play. Lumberjacks is holding its own in ninth place, which is above the relegation zone, always good news for them. Vinovium, Labrador, and St. Martin are all in double digits as far as points, though St. Martin is most at risk, having scored just 9 goals in 12 games. They will all be trying to stay ahead of County. Finally, County have two good wins, but that's not enough to keep them from being in the drop zone. They will need to shore up their defense and win some against the bottom half of the league if they want to make their Sovereign Division stay last more than one season.

Yeoman Division Standings

Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Olympique Sept-Iles    12    9   1   2    37   11  +26    28
 2 FC Acadia              12    8   1   3     9    8   +1    25
 3 Isca Town FC           12    5   4   3    15    9   +6    19
 4 Fishermans FC          12    5   4   3    13   10   +3    19
 5 FC Gránde Vitesse      12    5   3   4    16   13   +3    18
 6 Shepherds FC           12    5   3   4    15   17   −2    18
 7 Comrades FC            12    5   1   6    16   12   +4    16
 8 FC Mineurs             12    4   3   5    11   12   −1    15
 9 Homesteaders FC        12    3   6   3    13   16   −3    15
10 Artisans FC            12    3   4   5     7   18  −11    13
11 Eboracum City FC       12    2   4   6    10   17   −7    10
12 Maritimes FC           12    3   1   8    16   24   −8    10
13 First Nations FC       12    2   3   7    17   28  −11     9

This season, everyone's money was on a titanic battle for promotion between Olympique and Isca Town. Well, they got one part of it right. Olympique tops the Yeoman Division with 28 points and an astounding 37 goals. If they stay on this pace, they'll break their own record for most goals scored in any division in NAFL play. Some of their impressive wins include 6-0 over Artisans, 7-2 over First Nations, and a pair of 3-0 wins over their closest competitors, FC Acadia and Isca Town. By contrast, FC Acadia, the surprising second place team, has only scored nine goals and has a goal differential of +1; they're living off a steady diet of 1-0 wins, while losing 3-0 to both Olympique and Maritimes. Isca Town and Fishermans(!) are tied for third, the PEI club has drawn to lowly Homesteaders and First Nations while losing to close competitors Shepherds and Gránde Vitesse. Fishermans apparently has been revived by a new ownership group and getting back to the Yeoman Division; though it seems to have more to do with better training and facilities than new players. Gránde Vitesse and Shepherds are lurking just a point out of third (LBCT places).

In the bottom half of the division, Comrades, Mineurs, and Homesteaders are sitting a few points out of third and still holding out hope for the second half of the season. For Homesteaders, it's been more about avoiding bad losses, as they have six draws. Artisans has been betrayed by an offense that's only scored seven goals; despite their 18 goals allowed, 11 of them came in two games, so they've actually played well in the others. City, Maritimes, and First Nations are chugging along in the bottom places. City and First Nations are no strangers to the cellar, but Maritimes doesn't make a habit of hanging around in 12th place. They've lost to City and First Nations by an aggregate score of 8-2, but two of their three wins are over top teams Olympique and Acadia. It's anyone's game right now.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Wed Jul 08, 2020 8:58 am

NAFL Season 15: Part 2

After 13 games, there were four teams right there at the top. What will the second half hold?

MATCHDAY 14
Londinium County FC 1-3 FC Portus
Labrador United FC 0-2 Castellum FC
Sporting Vinovium 0-1 Bridgewall City FC
Sanctuary FC 2-1 Newfield Athletic
Lumberjacks FC 0-1 Archbishop FC
FC St. Martin 1-2 Heartwood FC

Big win for Sanctuary to kick off the second half! A lightning bolt of a strike from the CAM in the 78th minute puts the Rutupiae club ahead and sends Newfield to defeat. Meanwhile, Portus and Archbishop both win to take a slight advantage over Newfield. Archbishop summons up the one goal they need to beat Lumberjacks, while County manages to not let in six goals this time, but three is more than enough for Portus to get the road win. Bridgewall nips Vinovium on the road, while struggling Labrador and St. Martin fall to mid-table sides.

MATCHDAY 15
Springs FC 0-1 Londinium County FC
FC Portus 1-0 Sporting Vinovium
Castellum FC 1-0 Sanctuary FC
Bridgewall City FC 1-0 Lumberjacks FC
Newfield Athletic 5-2 FC St. Martin
Archbishop FC 1-1 Heartwood FC

Two upsets here on Matchday 15, as County goes to Aquae Sulis to knock off Springs, and Sanctuary can't find the net in Mancunium. Not an auspicious second-half start for a Springs club that hasn't seen much league success in recent years. Meanwhile, Sanctuary might be experiencing a little bit of a hangover after beating Newfield, as Castellum frustrates their every attempt at scoring. The Mancunium club has won two straight to start the second half and may be poised to make a run. In Noviomagus, Newfield hammers St. Martin, which combined with the County win, puts St. Martin in a tie for last. Archbishop doesn't exactly get revenge for losing to Heartwood, but a draw isn't a loss. Finally, Portus slips by Vinovium, and Lumberjacks get shut out for the second straight game, this time to Bridgewall.

MATCHDAY 16
Labrador United FC 0-1 Springs FC
Sporting Vinovium 2-3 Londinium County FC
Lumberjacks FC 2-1 FC Portus
FC St. Martin 0-0 Castellum FC
Heartwood FC 0-0 Bridgewall City FC
Archbishop FC 1-1 Newfield Athletic

Woo! Make it two in a row for County as they build a 3-0 lead at half, then hold on to defeat Vinovium 3-2 on the road. Elsewhere, Newfield can't duplicate Archbishop's feat of a road win, but a draw does keep the two teams tied near the top of the standings. Lumberjacks trips up Portus, slowing their bid to build a little bit of a lead with Archbishop and Newfield drawing. A win for Portus would have put them on 32 points, five points clear of Newfield and Archbishop, a tidy little cushion. But they are still ahead for the moment. Springs escapes Labrador with three points in a nice bounce-back, while Heartwood and Bridgewall play to a scoreless draw in Eboracum. Finally, St. Martin can't score against Castellum, but at least they don't concede and are able to earn one point at home.

MATCHDAY 17
Springs FC 2-2 Sporting Vinovium
Labrador United FC 0-1 Sanctuary FC
Londinium County FC 0-0 Lumberjacks FC
FC Portus 0-0 Heartwood FC
Castellum FC 0-1 Archbishop FC
Bridgewall City FC 1-1 Newfield Athletic

With their narrow victory over Castellum, and with some inspired defending from Heartwood in Portus Abonae, Archbishop and Portus are tied atop the standings after Matchday 17. Newfield can't break through for a second goal against Bridgewall, leaving the two teams tied on the field and tied on the table at 28 points. On a second trip to Mancunium, this time Sanctuary can find the net, and they pick up three important points against Labrador, while Springs concedes a late goal to Vinovium to drop two points at home. Finally, County draws Lumberjacks. In the first half, County did not do a great job of picking up points against lower-half teams, but with a win over Vinovium and a draw against Lumberjacks, they're doing better.

MATCHDAY 18
Sanctuary FC 0-1 Springs FC
Lumberjacks FC 1-3 Sporting Vinovium
FC St. Martin 0-1 Labrador United FC
Heartwood FC 4-1 Londinium County FC
Newfield Athletic 1-0 FC Portus
Bridgewall City FC 0-0 Castellum FC

Newfield and Portus clash in Noviomagus, and the home team gets revenge for last time out, while also taking down a rival for the championship. Then, Springs emerges from Rutupiae with a win in a battle of sides on the outside of IFCF hoping to get in. Heartwood trounces County, continuing their good start to the second half. They've gone 2-3-0, with the two wins over lower-table sides and the three draws against competitive teams. Meanwhile, Bridgewall and Castellum play to a scoreless draw, with the impact more on Bridgewall's side, since they're actively competing for IFCF, while it's more of a bonus for Castellum. At the bottom of the table, Labrador stifles St. Martin at home, while Vinovium wins the Vinovium Derby. Those three points are very important for the winners, as relegation is always threatening and any points you can pick up are precious.

MATCHDAY 19
Springs FC 3-1 Lumberjacks FC
Sanctuary FC 3-0 FC St. Martin
Sporting Vinovium 2-2 Heartwood FC
Labrador United FC 0-2 Archbishop FC
Londinium County FC 2-5 Newfield Athletic
FC Portus 0-1 Castellum FC

Newfield and Archbishop both get road wins, with Archbishop cruising by Labrador, and Newfield putting the wood to County. Fortunately for them as well, Portus gets surprised by an early goal from Castellum and can't break through the Soldiers' defense, falling 1-0 at home. Elsewhere, Springs and Sanctuary both get home wins over lower-level sides, while Vinovium produces a late goal to snatch one point at home against Heartwood.

MATCHDAY 20
FC St. Martin 3-1 Springs FC
Heartwood FC 5-0 Lumberjacks FC
Archbishop FC 1-3 Sanctuary FC
Newfield Athletic 9-3 Sporting Vinovium
Bridgewall City FC 1-0 Labrador United FC
Castellum FC 2-1 Londinium County FC

We have to lead with the result out of Noviomagus. Newfield's 9 goals represent the most any team has scored in a Sovereign Division match, and the 12 combined goals almost assuredly are a new record as well. The first twenty minutes were goal-filled, but mostly normal, as the two teams scored twice each. But a red card shown to Vinovium's top defender forced them to pull back, and Newfield took advantage, scoring four goals in the last twenty-five minutes of the half to carry a 6-2 lead into the break. Newfield continued to press, and an own goal contributed to Vinovium's woes. They did get a lucky break late in the game when Newfield decided to drop back a bit, and a substitute had his shot deflect off of a defender and into the net.

Meanwhile, Springs is upset by St. Martin on the road, while Sanctuary takes down Archbishop at home, in blows for both of those teams. Bridgewall manages to avoid the upset, bullying Labrador in a 1-0 win, while Heartwood blasts Lumberjacks and Castellum slips by County on another late goal.

MATCHDAY 21
Springs FC 2-3 Heartwood FC
FC St. Martin 2-2 Archbishop FC
Lumberjacks FC 1-1 Newfield Athletic
Sanctuary FC 2-0 Bridgewall City FC
Sporting Vinovium 0-1 Castellum FC
Labrador United FC 0-2 FC Portus

Even as Archbishop was dropping points against a suddenly resurgent St. Martin side, Newfield fans couldn't take any pleasure in it, as their side couldn't find a winner against Lumberjacks. But Sanctuary wins their third straight (and second straight over an IFCF club), taking down Bridgewall as they start to build some momentum. Heartwood takes down Springs, Castellum slips by Vinovium, and Portus vanquishes Labrador United. Right now, Newfield reigns supreme on 38 points, but only three points separate second-place Archbishop from eighth-place Heartwood. It's a tight race for IFCF, and some teams may still even have designs on a league title. Meanwhile, at the bottom, Lumberjacks, Vinovium, St. Martin, Labrador, and County are only three points apart, so anyone could still be relegated.

MATCHDAY 22
Archbishop FC 2-1 Springs FC
Newfield Athletic 1-1 Heartwood FC
Bridgewall City FC 4-0 FC St. Martin
Castellum FC 1-0 Lumberjacks FC
FC Portus 0-0 Sanctuary FC
Londinium County FC 0-1 Labrador United FC

Archbishop gets revenge for Springs' defeat of them back on Matchday 9, scoring two quick goals and holding off the Aquae Sulis side for the rest of the game. In matchups of IFCF sides against relegation battlers, Bridgewall puts four by St. Martin, including a thundering shot from 28 metres out, while Castellum are content to score just one against Lumberjacks for their victory. Portus and Sanctuary draw, in a game where both sides would have liked to have a win, and Newfield stumbles a bit, drawing Heartwood. Meanwhile, Labrador nips County in a battle of two sides tied at the bottom.

MATCHDAY 23
Springs FC 0-1 Newfield Athletic
Archbishop FC 2-1 Bridgewall City FC
Heartwood FC 2-0 Castellum FC
FC St. Martin 0-1 FC Portus
Sanctuary FC 4-1 Londinium County FC
Sporting Vinovium 0-2 Labrador United FC

Newfield downs Springs in Aquae Sulis, sending them to their fourth consecutive loss and third straight by a single goal. It's big points for Newfield, who are still looking for a league title, while Springs just wants to stop the bleeding. Archbishop keeps up with Newfield, taking down Bridgewall two-nil, while Portus edges out St. Martin and Sanctuary blasts County, all staying in IFCF contention. In a matchup of two sides that are desperate for some success, Heartwood eases by Castellum 2-0, while Labrador gets themselves clear of the drop zone by winning their second straight against Vinovium. With three games to play, Newfield leads Archbishop by two for the league title, while Sanctuary, Portus, Heartwood, Bridgewall, and Castellum are serious contenders for the last two IFCF spots. Springs still technically has a chance for IFCF, but at five points back, will need some help.

MATCHDAY 24
Bridgewall City FC 1-0 Springs FC
Castellum FC 0-1 Newfield Athletic
FC Portus 0-3 Archbishop FC
Londinium County FC 2-2 FC St. Martin
Labrador United FC 1-0 Lumberjacks FC
Sporting Vinovium 1-2 Sanctuary FC

No help for Springs this time around, as they lose their fifth straight and fall well and truly out of IFCF competition. A disappointing final stretch of the season for them, especially after being tied for third at the halfway mark. Meanwhile, Newfield escapes Mancunium with three points, while Archbishop again soundly defeats Portus, this time in Portus Abonae. Sanctuary keeps pace with them by winning 2-1 in Vinovium, making their IFCF spot more secure. Labrador wins their third straight, putting them officially clear of any chance at relegation, while making sure Lumberjacks still have to worry about it. County and St. Martin each get a point, though surely they would rather have had three. The relegation race, like the title and IFCF races, remains close.

MATCHDAY 25
Springs FC 1-1 Castellum FC
Bridgewall City FC 1-1 FC Portus
Archbishop FC 4-1 Londinium County FC
Heartwood FC 1-1 Labrador United FC
FC St. Martin 2-0 Sporting Vinovium
Lumberjacks FC 0-0 Sanctuary FC

As Newfield sits idle, Archbishop routs County in the Londinium Derby to take a one-point lead going into the final matchday. As valuable as the win is for Archbishop's title chances, the loss is devastating to County's chances of avoiding relegation. Thankfully for them, St. Martin defeats Vinovium, which puts the Horsemen out of danger, but means that County still has a chance to leapfrog Vinovium on the final day. Sanctuary drops two points on the road to Lumberjacks, which means that the perpetual yo-yo club is probably safe from relegation, but Sanctuary's IFCF chances take a small hit. Meanwhile, Portus and Bridgewall draw, keeping both teams behind Sanctuary. Springs stops their losing streak against Castellum, but can only pull off a draw. Finally, Heartwood is frustrated by Labrador in a draw that probably puts paid to their IFCF chances.

Sovereign Division Standings

Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Archbishop FC          23   14   4   5    50   29  +21    46
 2 Newfield Athletic      23   13   6   4    56   28  +28    45
 3 Sanctuary FC           23   12   5   6    34   21  +13    41
 4 Bridgewall City FC     23   10   9   4    22   14   +8    39
 5 FC Portus              23   10   8   5    26   17   +9    38
 6 Heartwood FC           23    9   9   5    35   21  +14    36
 7 Castellum FC           24   10   6   8    16   17   −1    36
 8 Springs FC             23    9   6   8    34   29   +5    33
 9 Labrador United FC     23    7   4  12    15   30  −15    25
10 FC St. Martin          23    5   5  13    21   42  −21    20
11 Lumberjacks FC         23    4   7  12    18   32  −14    19
12 Sporting Vinovium      23    4   5  14    25   45  −20    17
13 Londinium County FC    23    4   4  15    27   54  −27    16

Going into the final matchday, what's at stake? Well, a win by Archbishop over Vinovium would win them the title outright. Alternatively, if Archbishop and Newfield both draw, Archbishop wins as well, or if they both lose. Basically, if Newfield matches Archbishop's result, Archbishop will win. Newfield can't settle for just a draw against Labrador, either, because even if Archbishop loses, they still hold the head-to-head advantage. Newfield can only win the title with a win and an Archbishop draw or loss.

In the IFCF race, Sanctuary will play Heartwood. A draw or win for Sanctuary will put them in the Challengers' Cup, while a loss could see them slip out by the thinnest of margins. Heartwood needs a win and a Bridgewall loss to even have a chance, so they'll be gunning for a win in whatever way they can. Portus will play Springs, who have nothing to play for except getting a win to finish off the season, while Bridgewall will travel to County. Both teams should win that game, but Springs would love to play spoiler against their West Newfoundland Derby rivals and County defeated Bridgewall by three goals last time, so you never know. Castellum will be idle and is eliminated from IFCF contention, though 36 points and a tie for sixth isn't bad for them.

At the bottom end of the table, Labrador and St. Martin are safe from relegation. What does Labrador have to play for? Denying Newfield a title. They'd love to, but you don't bet against Newfield in that matchup. As for St. Martin, they'll play Lumberjacks. On careful inspection, Lumberjacks hold the head-to-head advantage over County, so even a loss and a County win means Lumberjacks would finish ahead of County. So it turns out to be nothing more than the battle for 10th place.

Vinovium and County have the most to lose, as neither wants to go back to the reduced revenues and prestige of the Yeoman Division. Both face incredibly tough matchups against motivated teams; Archbishop wants to win the league, while Bridgewall needs a win to feel secure of their spot in IFCF play. Of course, both Vinovium and County upset their higher-ranked opponents last time, so if you're optimistic, they can do it again. If you're pessimistic, those two teams will be out for revenge and will blast their lower-ranked opponents. If Vinovium matches County's result, County will be relegated. County needs a win and a Vinovium draw or loss to be sure of advancement. If County draws and Vinovium loses, they'll be tied on 17 points. Their head to head results are 1-0-1, and their head to head goal differential is 4-4. They will have an identical number of wins and even an identical record. In that case, it will come down to goal differential; Vinovium's is currently -20, while County's is -27. So, barring a horrendous loss by Vinovium, County will need a win to even have a chance to avoid relegation. It's all very exciting!

Yeoman Division Standings

Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Olympique Sept-Iles    23   14   3   6    57   25  +32    45
 2 Comrades FC            23   13   2   8    40   23  +17    41
 3 Isca Town FC           23   11   7   5    39   15  +24    40
 4 Shepherds FC           23   11   5   7    31   25   +6    38
 5 FC Acadia              23   11   5   7    19   20   −1    38
 6 FC Gránde Vitesse      23   10   4   9    32   29   +3    34
 7 Fishermans FC          23    8   9   6    23   20   +3    33
 8 Artisans FC            23    8   8   7    25   31   −6    32
 9 Homesteaders FC        23    7   8   8    27   35   −8    29
10 FC Mineurs             23    7   6  10    17   23   −6    27
11 First Nations FC       23    6   3  14    33   58  −25    21
12 Eboracum City FC       24    4   7  13    21   42  −21    19
13 Maritimes FC           23    5   3  15    30   48  −18    18

On the eve of the final matchday, there isn't any suspense about who will be promoted; Olympique have a four point lead with one game to go. The real drama is who will join them in the LBCT competition. Right now, Comrades looks pretty assured of a place, with a three point lead over Shepherds and FC Acadia. If they only secure one point or Shepherds or Acadia fail to win, they'll be in. Comrades will go to FC Acadia; to be safe, they'll need to avoid a loss. Isca Town could get passed by Acadia or Shepherds; after failing to win promotion for the second straight year, LBCT would be a good consolation prize for them. They'll face 8th place Artisans, where a win would secure LBCT competition, and a draw would put them in a good position. Acadia will be looking to win against Comrades, and Shepherds will face Gránde Vitesse, needing three points to have any chance to enter the LBCT. Gránde Vitesse, on 34 points, doesn't have anything to play for except being a spoiler; they already hampered FC Acadia's chances by beating them 2-0 on the previous matchday.

In the bottom half of the division, it's been a surprisingly good season for Fishermans. Their second half hasn't been nearly as good as their first, but if they were to finish in seventh place, it would represent their best finish since finishing sixth in season six, several years ago. The new ownership group is working wonders for the confidence and chemistry of this team. Artisans, Homesteaders and Mineurs have all had middling to disappointing seasons, but at least they're clear of the drop zone. Of the three teams at the bottom, First Nations, City, and Maritimes, one has nothing to fear, one everything to lose, and one a fighting chance. First Nations, with 21 points, hasn't exactly had a great year, but that's typical. Plus they are two points ahead of idle City, so they cannot be relegated. It's City and Maritimes where all the drama is. Fans in Eboracum will be nervously watching the Maritimes match in Sept-Iles, hoping against hope that Olympique, having won the league, are not content to rest on their laurels. Maritimes fans will be pulling their hardest for a win, knowing that their team already defeated Olympique once. City additionally hold the head-to-head advantage, which means a draw will not be enough for Maritimes; they need a win. Plenty of drama at the bottom, while scraps for the LBCT are in full swing near the top of the table.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Thu Jul 09, 2020 10:40 am

NAFL Season 15: Part 3

With races up and down the table in both the Sovereign and Yeoman division, what will the final matchday hold?

MATCHDAY 26
FC Portus 2-1 Springs FC
Londinium County FC 0-4 Bridgewall City FC
Labrador United FC 2-1 Newfield Athletic
Sporting Vinovium 1-4 Archbishop FC
Sanctuary FC 0-2 Heartwood FC
Lumberjacks FC 1-1 FC St. Martin

First Half

With the league championship on the line, the games kick off in Labrador and Vinovium. Archbishop quickly takes a 2-0 lead in the first twenty minutes on a corner kick and a beautiful through ball, while things remain scoreless in Labrador. Just before half, the Labrador striker is taken down in the penalty box and converts the subsequent penalty kick, leaving Archbishop up 2-0 and Labrador up 1-0 as we enter the half.

Portus and Springs play in the West Newfoundland Derby, with Portus hoping for a Sanctuary loss and a favorable goal differential. Portus' tall defender outmuscles a Springs player on a perfectly swung-in corner kick, and heads it into the goal for a 1-0 Portus lead heading into the half. Despite good attempts from both sides, Sanctuary and Heartwood enter half scoreless.

County is fighting for their Sovereign Division life in Londinium against Bridgewall. Only a win will allow them to avoid relegation, while a draw would likely see them go down on goal differential. County cannot break through against the strong (and rough) Bridgewall defense, and a counterattack penetrates their defensive line, leaving a Bridgewall player alone with the keeper. He doesn't miss. Still, 1-0 down going into the half is salvageable.

Meanwhile, Lumberjacks and St. Martin score a goal each in the first half in what is essentially a friendly for both sides.

Second Half

When Archbishop adds a goal in the 49th minute to put their opponents down 3-0, Vinovium knows their only real chance is to limit the damage and hope Bridgewall can hold off County. Archbishop is playing for the championship, so they're not letting up. Their relentless pressure leads to a fourth goal in the 61st minute. At that point, the manager calls off the dogs and Archbishop falls back into a basic defensive shell. Vinovium gets a little more confidence, a little more possession, and manage to avoid total humiliation by pulling a goal back in the 85th minute. But the Archbishop fans have taken over the stadium and are singing and cheering; a win, regardless of Newfield's result, would bring them a league title, and that's just what's going to happen. Archbishop are champions, and Vinovium can only hope that Bridgewall is doing its job. Meanwhile, Labrador adds insult to injury when a shot deflects off a Newfield defender in the 58th minute to put the home team up 2-0. Newfield claws one back, but they go down.

Springs ties the score, putting Portus' IFCF hopes in serious jeopardy. Their only consolation at the moment is that Heartwood has used a thunderous free kick to go up 1-0 on Sanctuary. If they can put in a couple more goals, they just might have a chance. Soon the game becomes much more to Springs' liking, with both sides trying to aggressively attack, score, and secure a victory. Time dwindles down and both keepers make excellent saves. Heartwood's striker makes it 2-0 in Rutupiae; Portus needs goals badly. Finally, in the 90th minute, Portus finds the net once more. In stoppage time, we even see the keeper go forward to try to add to the total. A win isn't enough, they have to overcome the goal differential advantage, since they tied 0-0 both times with Sanctuary. But the final whistle blows. Portus have won the game, won the West Newfoundland Derby, but they still sit a goal behind Sanctuary. Despite the loss, Sanctuary will be going to IFCF play; it's heartbreak for last year's champions, and good news for a good team that often sits just outside IFCF competition.

County desperately needs a win. Bridgewall would usually be content to sit back and defend their lead, but they need a win to guarantee IFCF competition, and one goal may not cut it. Bridgewall finds the net in the 62nd minute to go up 2-0, and when a desperate County winger makes just too hard of a tackle, he's shown a red card and things start to fall apart for County. Bridgewall tacks on two more before the final whistle. For Bridgewall, it's third place with Sanctuary's defeat and a spot in the Challengers' Cup. For County, it's the agony of defeat and relegation back to the Yeoman Division. They'll compete again with Isca Town to win promotion.

Both sides use all three of their subs on reserve team and youth players as the game in Durovernum Cantiacorum plays to its inevitable 1-1 conclusion. St. Martin will nip Lumberjacks for the 10th spot. Neither side is happy with their season, but they'll live to fight another day in the Sovereign Division.

Sovereign Division Standings

Team                          P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Archbishop FC            24  15  4   5  54  30  +24  49 Champions, IFCF CL, CEdC
  2 Newfield Athletic        24  13  6   5  57  30  +27  45 IFCF CC
  3 Bridgewall City FC       24  11  9   4  26  14  +12  42 IFCF CC
  4 Sanctuary FC             24  12  5   7  34  23  +11  41* IFCF CC
  5 FC Portus                24  11  8   5  28  18  +10  41 CEdC (highest-placed non-IFCF team)
  6 Heartwood FC             24  10  9   5  37  21  +16  39
  7 Castellum FC             24  10  6   8  16  17   -1  36
  8 Springs FC               24   9  6   9  35  31   +4  33
  9 Labrador United FC       24   8  4  12  17  31  -14  28
 10 FC St. Martin            24   5  6  13  22  43  -21  21
 11 Lumberjacks FC           24   4  8  12  19  33  -14  20
 12 Sporting Vinovium        24   4  5  15  26  49  -23  17
 13 Londinium County FC      24   4  4  16  27  58  -31  16 relegated

*advances on goal differential

So here we are, Archbishop wins their third league title, and first since season 7. Newfield fails to win the championship for a second year in a row, but at least they get Challengers' Cup play as a consolation. Bridgewall and Sanctuary are the two other Challengers' Cup teams, with Portus missing out by a nose. Heartwood's final matchday win puts them in sixth, a pretty decent result for them, while Castellum can't be disappointed with 36 points and seventh place. Springs had a bad second half, experiencing a five-game losing streak and going 3-2-7 to drop from potential IFCF places to eighth. Labrador had an excellent end to the season, going from tied for last to winning four of their final five games to finish on 28 points, well clear of relegation or even tenth place. Not much to say for Vinovium, but at least they avoided relegation. County's third stay in the Sovereign Division is a lot like their first two: short and painful. Better luck next year.

YEOMAN DIVISION MATCHDAY 26
First Nations FC 1-3 FC Mineurs
Fishermans FC 1-0 Homesteaders FC
Olympique Sept-Iles 1-2 Maritimes FC
Isca Town FC 2-0 Artisans FC
FC Gránde Vitesse 1-1 Shepherds FC
FC Acadia 0-0 Comrades FC

On the final matchday, the suspense is mostly who will win the LBCT places and who will be relegated. City are hoping Olympique will defeat Maritimes, while Isca Town, Shepherds, FC Acadia, and Comrades all have hope for LBCT places.

All eyes are on Sept-Iles as Maritimes battles for its Yeoman Division life. Fortunately for them, Sept-Iles is playing a motley collection of starters, subs, reserve team players, and even a couple of youth players sitting on the bench for this one. Both sides like to play uptempo, and each side scores a goal in the first half. A draw isn't enough, because City holds the head-to-head advantage. But in the 78th minute, Maritimes finally gets a goal, a knuckleball off the toe of the central midfielder that wobbles and twists just enough to confuse the keeper and find the back of the net. 15 minutes later, the whistle blows, Maritimes is safe, and City is going down.

In the LBCT games, Gránde Vitesse and Shepherds play to a 1-1 draw, which effectively removes Shepherds from LBCT consideration. Comrades and Acadia take each other on in a game that will determine who goes to the LBCT. An Acadia win means they would advance and Comrades likely would not, while even a draw will get Comrades through. So to secure international play, Comrades plays more defensively than they would otherwise. Acadia's tiki-taka style degenerates into an endless series of completed passes, with no real opportunities or goals to show for it. When the whistle blows on a 0-0 draw, Acadia fans in attendance are booing relentlessly, but Comrades fans are celebrating the chance to compete on a multiversal stage. Isca Town was in the third spot for LBCT, but without a win, they'd be vulnerable to teams like Acadia and Shepherds. So they put it to bed early against Artisans, taking a 2-0 lead into the half and simply defending for 45 minutes. They may not be going back to the Sovereign Division, but they will have a chance to prove themselves in LBCT play.

Meanwhile, in the mostly meaningless games, FC Mineurs takes advantage of First Nations' overaggressive play, and executes three perfect counterattacks to earn a 3-1 win. Fishermans plays Homesteaders, gaining an early goal and then sitting on it for the rest of the game. The win vaults them over Gránde Vitesse to finish in sixth, an excellent job by the club recently promoted out of Third Division purgatory. What awaits them next?

Yeoman Division Standings

Team                          P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Olympique Sept-Iles      24  14  3   7  58  27  +31  45 promoted, LBCT
  2 Isca Town FC             24  12  7   5  41  15  +26  43 LBCT
  3 Comrades FC              24  13  3   8  40  23  +17  42 LBCT
  4 FC Acadia                24  11  6   7  19  20   -1  39
  5 Shepherds FC             24  11  6   7  32  26   +6  39
  6 Fishermans FC            24   9  9   6  24  20   +4  36
  7 FC Gránde Vitesse        24  10  5   9  33  30   +3  35
  8 Artisans FC              24   8  8   8  25  33   -8  32
  9 FC Mineurs               24   8  6  10  20  24   -4  30
 10 Homesteaders FC          24   7  8   9  27  36   -9  29
 11 First Nations FC         24   6  3  15  34  61  -27  21
 12 Maritimes FC             24   6  3  15  32  49  -17  21
 13 Eboracum City FC         24   4  7  13  21  42  -21  19 relegated

Olympique are up and City are down. That's the story. Maritimes escapes relegation by the skin of their teeth, while for First Nations, staying out of the drop zone is a success. Artisans, Mineurs, and Homesteaders are mediocre but not bad. Gránde Vitesse had LBCT play on its mind, but that will have to wait until next year. The top seven teams will all be looking to sign international free agents to either bolster their roster for LBCT play or try to get there. We'll have to see how City react to being sent down. Will they come back after one year, like Acadia? Or will it take a few, like Fishermans?

Third Division

Maritime League Standings

Team                            P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Yarmouth United            22  11  9   2  25  14  +11  42 promotion playoff
  2 Kingston Town              22  10  8   4  14   8   +6  38
  3 Bathurst Athletic          22  10  8   4  45  26  +19  38
  4 Spring Hill Harriers       22   9  7   6  36  29   +7  34
  5 Dalhousie                  22  10  4   8  36  36   +0  34
  6 Rothesay Corinthians       22   7  7   8  17  23   -6  28
  7 Miramichi Caledonians      22   8  3  11  33  42   -9  27
  8 Saint Stephen              22   6  6  10  13  21   -8  24
  9 Acadia Caraquet            22   6  5  11  20  27   -7  23
 10 Riverview United           22   6  5  11  22  28   -6  23
 11 Sussex Town                22   4 10   8  11  13   -2  22
 12 Edmunston Rangers          22   4 10   8  14  19   -5  22

Eastern League Standings

Team                         P   W  D   L For  Ag +/- Pts
  1 Bay Roberts              22  11  6   5  20  14  +6  39 promotion playoff
  2 Stephenville             22  11  3   8  39  38  +1  36
  3 Marystown Rovers         22   8  9   5  23  18  +5  33
  4 New Glasgow Casuals      22   8  8   6  23  16  +7  32
  5 Fall River               22   8  8   6  34  26  +8  32
  6 AFC Truro                22   9  3  10  29  32  -3  30
  7 Glace Bay                22   7  9   6  22  19  +3  30
  8 Port Hawkesbury          22   7  7   8  19  23  -4  28
  9 St. Anthony              22   6  8   8  23  28  -5  26
 10 Harbour Breton           22   7  4  11  41  44  -3  25
 11 Stellarton Rovers        22   6  6  10  24  30  -6  24
 12 Clarenville XI           22   6  5  11  20  29  -9  23

The two lucky teams this year are Yarmouth United in the Maritime League, and Bay Roberts from the Eastern League. Yarmouth was well clear of the next team in line, but Bay Roberts needed their 2-0 win over Clarenville XI to avoid a tie atop the Eastern League standings. If you're not flying, the two teams are separated by over 1,000 miles and 20 hours of travel, so this is a matchup between teams from opposite ends of the country. Fortunately, they can take a commercial flight from Eboracum to Londinium and vice versa, with a relatively short trip afterwards, so it's not that bad. It will be the first time in the Yeoman Division for either team.

Finally, a fun little nugget on the last matchday: Stephenville 8-6 over Harbour Breton. It doesn't help Stephenville into the promotion playoff, but it's the most goals scored in a Third Division game ever.

Promotion Playoff

Bay Roberts 1–0 Yarmouth United
Yarmouth United 1–0 Bay Roberts (1-1 AET, 1-2 aggregate)

Bay Roberts secures the home win, then finds a goal in extra time to win the playoff on aggregate and earn promotion to the Yeoman Division. A daunting task awaits them, but so does a decent payday.

Reserve Division Standings

Team                                P   W   D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Archbishop B                   25  15   5   5  45  19  +26  50
  2 Springs Reserves               25  15   5   5  48  25  +23  50
  3 Newfield Reserves              25  14   6   5  46  25  +21  48
  4 Heartwood Reserves             25  12  11   2  47  24  +23  47
  5 Bridgewall City Reserves       25  13   7   5  28  19   +9  46
  6 Isca Town B                    25  13   6   6  34  26   +8  45
  7 Sanctuary Reserves             25  11   8   6  40  23  +17  41
  8 Comrades B                     25  12   4   9  22  22   +0  40
  9 Labrador United Reserves       25  12   3  10  27  24   +3  39
 10 Portus B                       25  11   6   8  30  21   +9  39
 11 Londinium County Reserves      25  11   5   9  42  35   +7  38
 12 FC Acadia B                    25  10   6   9  34  37   -3  36
 13 Castellum B                    25  10   6   9  22  22   +0  36
 14 Maritimes Reserves             25  10   5  10  26  29   -3  35
 15 Vinovium United B              25  10   4  11  37  34   +3  34
 16 St. Martin B                   25   9   6  10  34  39   -5  33
 17 Shepherds Reserves             25   9   6  10  29  24   +5  33
 18 Lumberjacks Reserves           25   8   8   9  33  29   +4  32
 19 Olympique Sept-Iles B          25   8   7  10  39  45   -6  31
 20 Grande Vitesse B               25   8   4  13  30  37   -7  28
 21 Eboracum City Reserves         25   6   6  13  27  42  -15  24
 22 Artisans B                     25   5   6  14  22  52  -30  21
 23 Fishermans Reserves            25   5   6  14  17  40  -23  21
 24 First Nations B                25   5   5  15  33  54  -21  20
 25 FC Mineurs B                   25   4   7  14  17  33  -16  19
 26 Homesteaders B                 25   2   6  17  21  50  -29  12

Archbishop and Springs tie for the title, just ahead of Newfield and Heartwood. It's the second straight year Archbishop's reserves have tied for a share of the crown. The highest finishing Yeoman Division reserve side is Isca Town B, who finish a strong sixth (honorable mention to Comrades B in eighth), while the lowest finishing Sovereign Division team is Lumberjacks Reserves, down in 18th.

Nova Anglican Cup

Play-in Round
Georgetown Dockers FC 1–3 Miramichi Caledonians
Miramichi Caledonians 1–1 Georgetown Dockers FC (4-2 aggregate)

Garden City FC 0–2 St. Anthony
St. Anthony 2–3 Garden City FC (4-3 aggregate)

FC Agvituk 0–2 Harbour Breton
Harbour Breton 0–2 FC Agvituk (1-2 AET, 3-2 aggregate)

FC Cor Unum Grand Sault 1–4 Stellarton Rovers
Stellarton Rovers 1–1 FC Cor Unum Grand Sault (5-2 aggregate)

Golfe-Nord FC 0–1 Saint Stephen
Saint Stephen 0–0 Golfe-Nord FC (1-0 aggregate)

Suidni Gaels FC 0–1 Acadia Caraquet
Acadia Caraquet 2–1 Suidni Gaels FC (3-1 aggregate)

Edmundston Rangers 0–0 Riverview United
Riverview United 0–0 Edmundston Rangers (1-0 AET, 1-0 aggregate)

Sussex Town 0–1 Clarenville XI
Clarenville XI 1–0 Sussex Town (2-0 aggregate)

The regional cup winners were not as up to the task as last year. No NANFC team upsets a Third Division team, though Harbour Breton does need AET to finish off FC Agvituk and Garden City tries their best to knock off St. Anthony. Riverview goes into AET with Edmundston, but prevails as well.

First Round
Miramichi Caledonians 1–3 First Nations FC
First Nations FC 0–1 Miramichi Caledonians (3-2 aggregate)

St. Anthony 0–0 Homesteaders FC
Homesteaders FC 0–0 St. Anthony (2-0 AET, 2-0 aggregate)

Harbour Breton 5–0 FC Mineurs
FC Mineurs 3–1 Harbour Breton (3-6 aggregate)

Stellarton Rovers 0–0 Artisans FC
Artisans FC 5–1 Stellarton Rovers (5-1 aggregate)

Saint Stephen 0–1 FC Gránde Vitesse
FC Gránde Vitesse 0–1 Saint Stephen (2-1 AET, 3-1 aggregate)

Acadia Caraquet 2–0 Fishermans FC
Fishermans FC 1–1 Acadia Caraquet (1-3 aggregate)

Riverview United 0–2 Shepherds FC
Shepherds FC 1–0 Riverview United (3-0 aggregate)

Clarenville XI 0–1 FC Acadia
FC Acadia 2–1 Clarenville XI (3-1 aggregate)

Rothesay Corinthians 0–1 Maritimes FC
Maritimes FC 1–0 Rothesay Corinthians (2-0 aggregate)

Port Hawkesbury 1–3 Eboracum City FC
Eboracum City FC 0–1 Port Hawkesbury (3-2 aggregate)

Glace Bay 1–0 Yarmouth United
Yarmouth United 0–1 Glace Bay (0-2 aggregate)

AFC Truro 0–1 Bay Roberts 
Bay Roberts 1–1 AFC Truro (2-1 aggregate)

Fall River 3–2 Kingston Town
Kingston Town 0–1 Fall River (2-4 aggregate)

New Glasgow Casuals 0–1 Bathurst Athletic
Bathurst Athletic 0–2 New Glasgow Casuals (1-2 aggregate)

Marystown Rovers 1–0 Stephenville
Stephenville 0–0 Marystown Rovers (0-1 aggregate)

Dalhousie 0–5 Spring Hill Harriers
Spring Hill Harriers 7–1 Dalhousie (12-1 aggregate)

Two upsets this year, as FC Mineurs casually waltzes into Harbour Breton and gets blown out 5-0. A 3-1 win in the return leg isn't nearly enough to overcome their deficit and they'll bow out early. Meanwhile, Acadia Caraquet gets the drop on Fishermans, and the return leg in Londinium results in a draw, knocking out the blue-collar club. Guess they still have some room for improvement. Finally, two teams in the same league that finished on the same number of points look anything but the same, as Spring Hill Harriers humiliates Dalhousie in front of their home fans 5-0. Then Dalhousie essentially waves the white flag on the return leg, playing mostly substitutes and gets destroyed 7-1. Spring Hill Harriers may not have a lot of fun in the next round against Archbishop, but they sure had a good time here.

The other big news is that former First Nations and Tuntigone (Eastfield Lodge) striker David Gleason has been promoted from sporting director of the academy program to manager of the senior side. The club, which is fan-owned (mostly), made the decision to fire the previous manager and promote the club hero for a trial run. His first match as manager sees them defeat Miramichi Caledonians, and then earn a draw to advance to the second round.

Second Round
First Nations FC 1–0 Labrador United FC
Labrador United FC 1–1 First Nations FC (1-2 aggregate)

Homesteaders FC 0–1 FC St. Martin
FC St. Martin 2–2 Homesteaders FC (3-2 aggregate)

Harbour Breton 1–1 Lumberjacks FC
Lumberjacks FC 5–0 Harbour Breton (6-1 aggregate)

Artisans FC 0–1 Sporting Vinovium
Sporting Vinovium 2–2 Artisans FC (3-2 aggregate)

FC Gránde Vitesse 0–1 Londinium County FC
Londinium County FC 3–2 FC Gránde Vitesse (4-2 aggregate)

Acadia Caraquet 3–0 Olympique Sept-Iles
Olympique Sept-Iles 2–1 Acadia Caraquet (2-4 aggregate)

Shepherds FC 0–0 Isca Town FC
Isca Town FC 2–0 Shepherds FC (2-0 aggregate)

FC Acadia 1–1 Comrades FC
Comrades FC 1–0 FC Acadia (2-1 aggregate)

Maritimes FC 5–5 Springs FC
Springs FC 2–0 Maritimes FC (7-5 aggregate)

Eboracum City FC 1–0 Castellum FC
Castellum FC 0–1 Eboracum City FC (0-2 aggregate)

Glace Bay 0–0 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 1–0 Glace Bay (1-0 aggregate)

Bay Roberts 0–1 FC Portus
FC Portus 1–0 Bay Roberts (2-0 aggregate)

Fall River 4–3 Sanctuary FC
Sanctuary FC 6–0 Fall River (9-4 aggregate)

New Glasgow Casuals 0–1 Bridgewall City FC
Bridgewall City FC 1–0 New Glasgow Casuals (2-0 aggregate)

Marystown Rovers 0–0 Newfield Athletic
Newfield Athletic 3–1 Marystown Rovers (3-1 aggregate)

Spring Hill Harriers 5–5 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 3–0 Spring Hill Harriers (8-5 aggregate)

In a Cup matchup that happens to be also the Labrador Derby, First Nations snatches a home win and holds off Labrador United in the second leg to pull the upset. Meeting them in the round of 16 will be Springs, who had a wild 5-5 match in Pons Aelius before handling Maritimes 2-0 on the return leg. Harbour Breton holds Lumberjacks to a draw, but gets blown out 5-0 in Vinovium. Acadia Caraquet is the only Third Division team remaining in the competition after defeating Yeoman Division champions Olympique Sept-Iles and holding on the return leg. Also pulling an upset was Eboracum City, who despite being condemned to relegation, win both legs against Castellum. They'll play St. Martin next. After a draw on the road, Isca Town collects a workmanlike 2-0 victory at home over Shepherds. They’ll face Newfield, whose reserves had a little difficulty with Marystown Rovers before eventually dispatching them. Finally, Archbishop's reserves forget how to play defense against Spring Hill Harriers, tying 5-5, before the A-minus team wins 3-0 at home to secure advancement.

Round of 16
First Nations FC 1–0 Springs FC
Springs FC 1–1 First Nations FC (1-2 aggregate)

Eboracum City FC 4–2 FC St. Martin
FC St. Martin 1–1 Eboracum City FC (3-5 aggregate)

Lumberjacks FC 7–1 Heartwood FC
Heartwood FC 2–4 Lumberjacks FC (3-11 aggregate)

Sporting Vinovium 0–0 FC Portus
FC Portus 1–0 Sporting Vinovium (1-0 aggregate)

Londinium County FC 2–1 Sanctuary FC
Sanctuary FC 2–5 Londinium County FC (3-7 aggregate)

Acadia Caraquet 0–0 Bridgewall City FC
Bridgewall City FC 0–1 Acadia Caraquet (0-1 aggregate)

Isca Town FC 0–1 Newfield Athletic
Newfield Athletic 5–1 Isca Town FC (6-1 aggregate)

Comrades FC 0–0 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 5–3 Comrades FC (5-3 aggregate)

Upsets galore here! First, First Nations defeats another Sovereign Division team, pulling the same trick of home win, road draw they did against Labrador United. They'll face an Archbishop side that looks suddenly vulnerable or uninterested, drawing with Comrades away and conceding three goals at home despite the win. Then, Eboracum City knocks off St. Martin, building a two-goal aggregate advantage, then drawing in DC to punch their ticket to the quarterfinals. It's the farthest they've ever advanced, beating their previous record of the Round of 16, set last season. City played Newfield in the Round of 16 last year, and they'll get them in the quarterfinals this year after Newfield's 5-1 home blasting of Isca Town. They will look to avoid a result like last year's 8-1 road loss. Lumberjacks upsets Heartwood, embarrassing them 7-1 in Vinovium before traveling to Eboracum and beating a collection of demoralized subs and reserve team players 4-2. They'll get Acadia Caraquet, who upsets Bridgewall in the second straight year the Pons Aelius side has lost to a Third Division team. This is the first time a Third Division side has advanced to the quarterfinals in NA Cup history. Things are looking good for Lumberjacks to make their third consecutive semifinal. Finally, County beats Sanctuary in both legs, including 5-2 in Rutupiae to advance to a quarterfinal matchup against Portus. This is good for County, since they were relegated in the regular season.

Quarterfinals
Londinium County FC 1–1 FC Portus
FC Portus 0–1 Londinium County FC (1-2 aggregate)

Acadia Caraquet 1–4 Lumberjacks FC
Lumberjacks FC 6–0 Acadia Caraquet (10-1 aggregate)

Eboracum City FC 0–5 Newfield Athletic
Newfield Athletic 3–1 Eboracum City FC (8-1 aggregate)

First Nations FC 1–2 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 7–2 First Nations FC (9-3 aggregate)

Acadia Caraquet's Cinderella run comes to an end here, in violent, 10-1 aggregate, fashion. Lumberjacks thrashes them in both legs to return to the semifinals. Garrett Burke, who had three goals in the tie, is openly proclaiming Lumberjacks will return to the final, no matter what. Standing in their way yet again will be Newfield, who trounced City 5-0, paving the way for an easy 3-1 win in front of the home fans. Meanwhile, County draws Portus in Londinium, then nips them in Portus Abonae, disappointing Portus fans again, who won't see IFCF play next year or a chance at the NA Cup. It sets up a rematch of the Londinium Derby, as Archbishop slips by First Nations in Labrador, then blasts them 7-2 in Londinium to put an end to their amazing story. The club confirms that David Gleason will stay on as manager for next season, due to his impressive run.

Semifinals
Lumberjacks FC 0–1 Newfield Athletic
Newfield Athletic 2–0 Lumberjacks FC (3-0 aggregate)

Londinium County FC 0–4 Archbishop FC
Archbishop FC 0–1 Londinium County FC (4-1 aggregate)

Three straight appearances in the semifinal for Lumberjacks, three straight times they've played Newfield. Last year, they pulled off the upset, winning in Noviomagus to advance on away goals. Not this time, as Newfield win 2-0 at home to complete the victory. Archbishop tries to put any chance of County advancing to rest early, blasting their Londinium Derby rivals 4-0 outside the city. So when County salves their wounds by beating Archbishop 1-0 on the road, it's not enough and the city club will move on to the finals instead of the county club. Still, a semifinal run ending in a rivalry matchup isn't a bad consolation prize for being relegated.

Nova Anglican Cup Final
Archbishop FC 3–1 Newfield Athletic

The NAFL changed their procedures for this Cup final as they enter the IFCF for the first time in a while. Previously, the higher seed hosted the final, but the NAFL confirmed that this final would be held at Kelly Park, thus serving as a neutral site and providing a more level playing field for the team who would go on to the Cup Winners' Cup. Of course, Kelly Park is still Archbishop's home field. And they take full advantage of that, easing by Newfield with a two-goal first half to win 3-1 and pull off the domestic double. It's their third Cup final win, and their first since season 6. They will contest the Champions' League and Cup Winners' Cup next year, as well as the Campionato Esportiva di Campeones, a full international schedule that will no doubt have them relying on their reserve team and certain youth players as well.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Wed Jul 29, 2020 10:11 am

Offseason Transfer Window Roundup

Transfers In

Algar Cason         ST   25  Serbury FC       JEC Sanctuary FC         $1.25m
Alain Veddicho      AMC  31  CF Outineau      KSK Castellum FC         $900k
Antoine Boucher     CB   27  NGSA Ulaynof     KSK Olympique Sept-Iles  $900k
Agostino Montargis  CB   23  Dinamo Sainati   ASU FC Portus            $800k
Ander Barth         CM   24  FK Banfigrade    ZRH Sanctuary FC         $750k
Mirutan Tartaguthen RB   24  Katashi-Kanatsu  KOR St. Martin FC        $600k
Adam Monday         AM   28  Alexandria City  XAN FC Portus            $500k
Rnan Black          CF   32  Marketville      EUR Castellum FC         $400k

Total spending: $6.1m

There are two ways to look at the offseason's biggest signing. You can either say that Sanctuary's acquisition of Algar Cason was the biggest because they spent the most money in transfer fees or you could say that Castellum getting Rnan Black from Eura's Gold League was the biggest get, because Eura's a top-five league. Either way, both of these signings are an improvement.

Sanctuary picked up Cason, who is reputed to be a penalty specialist and an excellent player with the ball at his feet, and Ander Barth, from Zeta Reka and Huegaltaldom's FK Banfigrade. Cason should help them score goals and Barth is a multi-year backup whose desire to play should help him succeed and give it his all. Sanctuary will be looking for Barth and Cason to link up and power their attack.

Castellum, who signed Rnan Black, also bought Alain Veddicho from Kelssek's CF Outineau. Although both players are now on the wrong side of thirty, both come from well-respected leagues, and in Veddicho's case, from a team that was an IFCF contender. Castellum has long lacked premier attacking talent, consigning them to mid-table mediocrity, usually. But they're making a big move with these two signings. Castellum's ownership has clearly decided that this is the year to make an IFCF run, to open up the playbook a little and get more attacking, and to challenge the league by signing established veterans. We'll see how it plays out.

FC Portus, who somewhat disappointingly ended up in fifth only a year after winning the league, also decided to go out and sign players in the hopes of getting into IFCF play. However, instead of investing solely in offensive players, as the first two teams did, Portus signed an offensive player and a defensive player. They nabbed attacking midfielder Adam Monday from Alexandria City, who were promoted last season. Monday apparently decided that playing for an IFCF competing side in a lower league was a better prospect than battling relegation in the Xannerian top flight. He'll have to adjust to the less-attacking style of the NAFL, but Portus hopes his aggressive style will help them score a few more and get over the IFCF hump. Additionally, they bought young defender Agostino Montargis from Dinamo Sainati in the LegAskari. Montargis is a national team player who has a lot of promise, but struggles with fouls. Portus will teach him to be more disciplined as he supports their back line.

Finally, two lower-end sides also signed players. Olympique, recently promoted, decided that being relegated again was just not acceptable, and went out and bought Antoine Boucher from NGSA Ulaynof. That team was selling players because they were relegated, but Olympique figures that the 27-year old Boucher can bring order to their back line and help them hold up against the relatively weaker NAFL competition. Finally, St. Martin signed right back Mirutan Tartaguthen from Katashi-Kanatsu in the Ko-orenite league. Tartaguthen struggled at Katashi-Kanatsu due to inexperience and high expectations and was reportedly looking for a lower-pressure club. Well, he's found one at St. Martin, where nobody knows who he is and his biggest job will be preventing them from being relegated. St. Martin conceded far too many last year, though they were ultimately well clear of relegation. The Horsemen hope he can learn and grow and eventually become one of the league's best defenders once he settles in.

The average age of all transfer signings was 26.75, a relatively young age. The biggest spender was Sanctuary, at $2m, with two acquisitions. Also buying two players were Castellum, who spent $1.3m, and Portus, who spent $1.3m as well. Interestingly enough, neither Newfield nor Archbishop, the two most successful teams, spent any money in transfer fees.

Notable Foreign Free Agent Signings

Farooq Nawfal (HIN)   DM   24  Kilicspor      TMR Newfield Athletic      
Gu Zhalei           CM/CAM 29  Beian City     YZH Archbishop FC
Zarles Biktorika      CF   21  Urizharra FC   ASG Sanctuary FC
Storm Holsen          DM   35  AC Izotz Zubia AUD Heartwood FC
Reis Caulker          LM   31  Chatswood      NPH Heartwood FC
Cobalt Layman(BRE)    DM   29  Yourougou FC   MKB Springs FC
Harris Foolscap(BRE)  CB   27  Yourougou FC   MKB Springs FC
Lance Forrest         DM   32  Snowden River  BRE Sporting Vinovium
Gabriël Franken       CF   35  I of Kjstd     AUD Sporting Vinovium
Drarinka Schlok      RW   23  Eyrods Tech    CMT Bridgewall City
Josep Palomer         LW   29  Steckholl Utd  DEL Bridgewall City
Oliw Schumacher       AM   22  Ogrvn Sprtlch  ZRH Bridgewall City
Eli Couture           ST   33  Bourne River   ETN Bridgewall City
Andy Wickham          DM   19  Idyllwild Acad KOR Londinium County
Sait Behruz           CM   25  Sivolvia Ctl   SRS Isca Town FC
Ajdin Markowić      RM/AM  20  Proud Tigers   ZRH Fishermans FC
Rorkalau Resdanthindhen CM 20  Glthsru Royals KOR Grande Vitesse
Martiño Marcelin      DM   20  Gcstr Mrn Acad KOR Grande Vitesse

NAFL clubs ended up signing 18 international free agents, for a total of 26 foreign players among the roughly 600 senior team players, or about 4.3%. Let's take a look at some of the signings.

Newfield and Archbishop signed one player each, while Sanctuary added one free agent to their two transfer signings. For Newfield, it was 24 year old Hinodejin Farooq Nawfal, who elected to sign with Newfield over Timuria's Bakir FK, a mid-table club. Nawfal is a defensive midfielder who spent time with Timuria's Kilicspor in their failed campaign to win promotion. Newfield is excited about the young player's potential and ability to slot into the starting lineup. He'll be asked to bolster a Newfield defense that didn't play badly, just inopportunely. Archbishop nabbed Gu Zhalei, a midfielder from Beian City in Yuezhou. He's a player for the national team and someone who can play well in distribution or in attack. Archbishop wants to bolster their roster for a packed international season, with the IFCF Champions' League, the Cup Winners' Cup, and the Campionato Esportiva di Campeones. Meanwhile, Sanctuary added Zarles Biktorika from Astograth's Urizharra FC. Biktorika is a young center forward who will no doubt be a first-off-the-bench type player for Sanctuary, and could work his way into the starting lineup with good play. He's the third part of the attacking trio Sanctuary added this offseason.

Meanwhile, Springs and Heartwood signed two international free agents each, as did Sporting Vinovium. Springs had a terrible second half, and concluded that their defense was the issue. To fix that, they went out and signed two Brenecians, teammates from Mkabian club Yourougou FC, Harris Foolscap and Cobalt Layman. Both players are sturdy defenders with a reputation for physicality. Springs are hoping that the two gel well, since they've been playing together, and that their physical play will intimidate and destroy opposing attackers. We'll see how they get on in the slightly more whistle-happy NAFL. Heartwood signed two players from great leagues. One, Reis Caulker, a Nepharan, is a left midfielder who has plenty of pace, stamina, and physicality. A typical Nepharan, really. But Heartwood expects his play to be anything but typical. They see his superior form and experience as giving them an edge to get back into IFCF. Secondly, they signed defensive midfielder Storm Holsen from Audioslavia's venerable AC Izotz Zubia. Holsen is a former international for Audioslavia and has won silverware with Zozi, so this is a step down. But he'll be treated like royalty, with plenty of players eager to learn from him. He'll be an instant leader for a Heartwood team desperate for international experience. Finally, Sporting Vinovium signed two players in a bid to stay in the Sovereign Division this season after narrowly escaping relegation. Gabriël Franken, a striker from Isle of Kjeligsted, who just won promotion to the Audioslavian first tier, and Lance Forrest, a defensive midfielder from Snowden River, who were just relegated to Brenecia's B-League. Franken is a tall man that Vinovium will be counting on to score goals. He's getting on in years, but Audioslavia's a world away from the NAFL and this should help them. Meanwhile, Forrest is in the Foolscap and Layman mold in that he's very physical. He'll be counted on to be a destroyer for Vinovium. And you can bet both men have been compensated heavily for their expected services.

To round out the Sovereign Division signings, Bridgewall signed an astounding four international free agents, the most of any team, and they were all attacking players. Let's begin with Chromatik university graduate Drarinka Schlok, who is notable for two reasons: she stands 7'1, and she's a woman. She will be the first player to be over 7 feet tall or to be a woman in the NAFL. Bridgewall defended her signing, saying, "She's got excellent size and a keen sense of how to handle the ball and do her job. We signed her to do a job, not as a statement or a publicity stunt. We expect her to really help us succeed on the IFCF stage and compete in the Sovereign Division." Schlok was not made available for public comment at the time of writing. The next most interesting Bridgewall signing is Eli Couture, from Bourne River in Ethane. River were an IFCF club last season, but Couture couldn't get off the bench much. Nonetheless, he was considered quite the potential player earlier in his career. Bridgewall intends to stick him right in the starting lineup, and with players around him, they expect him to improve quite a bit, as the Flame League is noticeably better than the NAFL. Also signed from Delaclava, was 29 year-old Josèp Palomer, who can play as a left wing or as a striker. With the signing of a new right wing, a new left wing, and a new striker, Bridgewall's 4-5-1 will probably be getting a makeover this year, and we can expect a more aggressive style from Bridgewall, albeit with their same excellent defense. Lastly, Bridgewall nabbed 22 year old Oliw Schumacher, from the Zeta Rekan second tier club Ogroven Sportlich. Schumacher didn't actually play for Sportlich, but he was loaned out to first-tier Ruzhan Stassengrade, where he saw some time. Bridgewall figures to work the attacking midfielder into their rotation instead of plopping him straight into the first eleven, but how the team responds to their new formation will be key to how much playing time he gets.

Several teams in the Yeoman Division also made signings. Isca Town, who finished second last year, and lost in the promotion playoff the year before that, are desperate to win the league this year and make it back to the Sovereign Division. To that end, they signed Sait Behruz, from the Squornshelan Remnant States' Sivolvia Central. Although Central haven't been particularly successful in recent years, Behruz is still a relatively young box-to-box midfielder who has the kind of work rate Isca Town are looking for. They will need hard work more than talent, but Behruz should be an impact player for them. The only other non-academy signing was Ajdin Markowić, a right midfielder/attacking midfielder from Zeta Reka's Proud Tigers, who signed with Fishermans. Fishermans, after their surprising sixth-place finish, have designs on a UICA spot, and they figure they need a few more goals to do so. Proud Tigers have yo-yoed between Zeta Reka's second and third-tier, so it isn't exactly a huge upgrade, but Markowić started at age 19, and talent like that will make an impact anywhere. Additionally, Londinium County signed defensive midfielder Andy Wickham from Idyllwild Academy in Ko-oren. Idyllwild won their division and qualified for the Rising Stars' Cup, so Wickham is coming from success. County views him as a future anchor of their defense, but he'll be a substitute for now. Lastly, Grande Vitesse signed two Ko-orenite academy players as well, Rorkalau Resdanthindhen, a center midfielder, and Martiño Marcelin, a defensive midfielder. Both players figure to see regular minutes, if not starters' minutes in the Grande Vitesse lineup. Grande Vitesse are always looking for youth and innovation, and they liked what they saw from the two young Ko-orenites. These signings should bolster their depth and one could even emerge to become a great player.

Transfers Out

None

Lumberjacks put Garrett Burke up for sale, since his contract expires next year and he wants more than they are willing to pay. Unfortunately for Lumberjacks, there were no bites. Perhaps they will be able to transfer him before his contract runs out, or perhaps he'll leave as a free agent. The important thing to watch is, will he play well in the hopes of getting a good contract from someone, or will he be resentful and allow that to affect his play on the pitch?

Notable Free Agent Departures

Donald O'Donnell  RW  29   Labrador United    Dalmarnock Rovers   GLZ
Josh Wood         RB  27   Bridgewall City    Partizani Selber    LER
Sal Osbourne      CB  25   FC Portus B        Barnley FC          KND

Donald O'Donnell is the biggest name to leave the NAFL. The right winger for Labrador had been making noise about wanting to leave for years, but he was still contracted to the team and was too valuable a goal scorer to be let go in the transfer market. Well, his contract is up, and he's signed with Glazgo's Dalmarnock Rovers, a lower mid-table team in their Premier Division. One suspects a combination of just wanting to get out and a substantial pay raise (as Labrador's owner is notoriously stingy). We wish him all the best. The next notable name is Josh Wood, formerly of Isca Town and Bridgewall City, now of Partizani Selber in Lerujka. Wood was a promising young player out of university, athletic, good stamina, relentless going forward or breaking up attacks. He played fairly well for Isca Town, which caused Bridgewall to buy him. Unfortunately, he soon after ran into a series of injuries, which he compounded with a drinking problem that was an open secret. He's cleaned up his act, but you have to hope that mid-table Partizani doesn't have too much off the pitch to distract him, or can tire him out enough on the pitch that he doesn't have the energy. If he stays healthy and in the lineup, Partizani have a gem on their hands. As for Sal Osbourne, we mention him only because of his relation to his famous cousin Devin Osbourne, former NT defender. The younger Osbourne has been frustrated on Portus' reserve team, and gladly signed a contract with the champions of Kohnhead's Premier League, Barnley FC.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Wed Aug 05, 2020 12:52 pm

NAFL Season 16 Sovereign Division Preview

For the first time, the NAFL is proud to offer its fans an in-depth preview of all 13 teams in the Sovereign Division as they prepare to battle it out for the championship in Season 16.

Club: Archbishop FC

Location: Londinium, N & L

Colors/Uniform: Purple with white sash/white with purple sash

Previous finish: 1st

Manager: Oliver Kelley

Starting Lineup (4-2-3-1): Roy Cahill 31 GK - Sean Reed 26 LB - Michael Godfrey 32 CB - Paul Barkley 22 CB - Damian Hillman 27 RB - Seb Masterson 32 DM - Everett Sessions 30 CM - Dave Sorensen 29 LM - Gu Zhalei (YZH) 29 CAM - Micah Galbraith 24 RM - Freddy Beal 26 ST

Starting lineup average age: 28.0

Fan expectations: Domestic double, advance in CL, CWC, and CEdC

Club goals: Win the league, advance in two of three competitions (CL, CWC, CEdC), avoid major injuries

Summary: Archbishop are and remain one of the top two clubs in the league. They won the league last year, and fan expectations are sky-high. Can you imagine what it feels like to be in the cultural, financial and governmental capital of your country, root for a club that has virtually limitless resources (in the context of the NAFL), and still only have a quarter of the championships of your rivals from a smaller city? That's why winning the league and the Cup, both over Newfield, felt so sweet last year. Fans will be satisfied with nothing less than a repeat. As for the club, they have their eyes set on international play. Champions League, Cup Winners Cup, Campionato Esportiva di Campeones, are all opportunities to draw more fans, get more TV revenue, and raise the club's profile so they can make more high-profile signings. But appearing's not enough. They need to win some games to make a difference. The biggest concern of manager Oliver Kelley and the staff will be making the best use of Yuezhou's Gu Zhalei and avoiding injuries with all the extra games on the schedule.

Club: Bridgewall City FC

Location: Pons Aelius, NS

Colors/Uniform: Brick red and gold

Previous finish: 3rd

Manager: Charlie Berry

Starting Lineup (4-2-3-1): Carl Baldwin 33 GK - Bryce Council 27 LB - Jared Thayer 28 CB - Russell Holliday 32 CB - Alec St. Pierre 31 RB - Tanner Whitehead 25 DM - Will Bartholomew 27 DM - Buddy Ahrens 26 AM - Josep Palomer 27 (DEL) LW - Drarinka Schlok 23 (CMT) RW - Eli Couture 33 (ETH) ST

Starting lineup average age: 28.4

Fan expectations: Return to IFCF/compete for league title

Club goals: Return to IFCF, reach semifinals of NA Cup, advance in Challengers' Cup, integrate new players into team

Summary: This is going to be a big season for Bridgewall. The four free agent signings, three of which slot directly into the starting lineup, tell you that. The fans are looking for continued success on the pitch, maybe even challenging for the league title. There's a lot of fan pressure for the new signings to make an impact on the pitch. Management is more concerned about advancing in IFCF play than league success, since every additional IFCF home game is a potential sellout. One knock-on effect of Bridgewall's defeat in the NA Cup Round of 16 last year was reduced TV and gate revenues. They'll want a deep run to restore team prestige. Manager Charlie Berry's task is to work the four new players into the team and get his team to adjust to the new 4-2-3-1. Bridgewall's sporting director and Berry made the decision to get more aggressive with the playstyle and the new players and formation reflect that. They want to win games, but if the new players adjust and the team settle into the new formation well, that's more important.

Club: Castellum FC

Location: Mancunium, N & L

Colors/Uniform: Red and black

Previous finish: 7th

Manager: Carlton Holland

Starting Lineup (4-4-1-1): Alan Barnes 31 GK - Henry Fleming 23 LB - Kent McBride 33 CB - Graig Gordon 34 CB - Nick Lynch 24 RB - Luke Holloway 25 LM - Julian Bailey 30 CM - Davis Ballard 28 CM - Dan Leonard 31 RM - Alain Veddicho 31 (KSK) CAM - Rnan Black 32 (EUR) ST

Starting lineup average age: 29.3

Fan expectations: Midtable/compete for IFCF

Club goals: Earn IFCF or CEdC spot, reach quarterfinals of NA Cup

Summary: It seems like Castellum have decided that this is their year. An unexpectedly high 7th place finish last year, just five points out of IFCF competition, convinced them that this team are just a couple of additional pieces away from really contending. All of this despite scoring just 16 goals in 24 games last year. So the Soldiers' Club went out and spent $1.3 million in transfer fees to pick up Alain Veddicho from Kelssek and Rnan Black from Eura. They will be transitioning from their previous ultra-defensive 5-4-1 to a more balanced 4-4-1-1, with Veddicho and Black feeding off of each other to fuel the offense. At least that's the plan. The fans, starved of any decent attacking talent, are eager to see what the two imports can do. The Mancunium press aren't like what the two players would face in Londinium, but they'll be under plenty of scrutiny. The key to look for is what Castellum will do should their IFCF push not be successful. Will they sell Black and/or Veddicho to recoup their losses, or keep plugging away and try next year? There are eight clubs who think they have a legitimate shot at the four IFCF places (and one CEdC spot for the 5th place winner), so the competition will be cutthroat.

Club: Heartwood FC

Location: Eboracum, NS

Colors/Uniform: Green and brown

Previous finish: 6th

Manager: Derek Sherman

Starting Lineup (4-4-2 diamond): Johnny Hodges 26 GK - Cory Weber 27 LB - Terence Marshall 33 CB - Colin Garrett 29 CB - Chris Carson 25 RB - Storm Holsen 35 (AUD) DM - Reis Caulker 31 (NPH) LM - Dean Ramsey 30 RM - Andy Walker 23 AM - Ross Howard 32 ST - Danny Coleman 30 ST

Starting lineup average age: 29.2

Fan expectations: Compete for IFCF

Club goals: Earn IFCF or CEdC spot, reach the quarterfinals of the NA Cup

Summary: Coming off a season in which their goal differential suggested they should have been better (+16 across 24 games, 3rd-best in the league), Heartwood decided they needed an injection of foreign talent to keep them from having bad scoring luck again. Becoming the new defensive midfielder in their diamond is Storm Holsen, a vet from Audioslavian club AC Izotz Zubia. Holsen may have lost some pace, but he's a former Audioslavian international and has played at the highest levels of club football. The team are counting on him to be a leader as well as a destroyer. Also joining the team is Reis Caulker, from Nephara. Caulker comes from one of the best leagues in the world and has plenty of pace and athleticism. Heartwood like his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively, as well as his experience. They think both players will help improve others on the team. Heartwood are gunning for an IFCF spot, like seven other teams in the league, so the competition will be fierce. They are hoping for improved play and a few balls to bounce a different way in key spots.

Club: Labrador United

Location: Mancunium, N & L

Colors/Uniform: Sky blue, green, and white

Previous finish: 9th

Manager: Ed Carson

Starting Lineup (4-5-1): Geoff Thompson 32 GK - Austin Ross 26 LB - Roger Bowers 33 CB - Jack Cunningham 29 CB - Brady Sutton 24 RB - Daniel Barber 28 LM - Rick Wheeler 33 CM - Derek Graves 32 DM - Mitch Kelly 33 CM - Scott Banks 22 RM - Allen Cole 32 ST

Starting lineup average age: 29.5

Fan expectations: Midtable

Club goals: Avoid relegation, make a profit, make the Round of 16 of NA Cup

Summary: Labrador didn't make any big moves this offseason; in fact, they lost a player when right winger Donald O'Donnell left the club to sign with Glazgo side Dalmarnock Rovers. He was dissatisfied with his pay and the defensive playstyle of Labrador. Stepping into his role will be 22 year-old Scott Banks, a product of the youth team, who will play as more of a right midfielder than a winger. This intensifies the pressure on striker Allen Cole to produce up front. He had a solid campaign last season, scoring eight from 24 games, but without O'Donnell as an additional threat, he'll get extra attention from defenders. Without any flashy additions, the fans' biggest hope is to finish midtable. It took four wins in their last five games to finish ninth last year, and history may not repeat itself. As always, the owner's goal is to make a profit, and the best way to do that is to stay up in the Sovereign Division and get a cut of that sweet, sweet TV money. With an older lineup, younger players like Banks and right back Brady Sutton will probably be the ones to keep an eye one; they may still have promising futures.

Club: Lumberjacks FC

Location: Vinovium, NB

Colors/Uniform: Green and gold, like the Portland Timbers

Previous finish: 11th

Manager: Jay Moss

Starting Lineup (3-5-2): Peter Dawson 24 GK - Trevor Wells 28 CB - Eric McLaughlin 33 CB - Gabe Walker 24 CB - Jonathan Webb 27 DM - Mitch Boyd 32 LWB - Thomas Taylor 30 CM - Kirk Smith 31 CM - Noah Brady 25 RWB - Garrett Burke 27 ST - Chris Mitchell 30 ST

Starting lineup average age: 28.3

Fan expectations: Midtable/Relegation battler

Club goals: Avoid relegation, reach semifinals of NA Cup

Summary: Lumberjacks did not make any additions this offseason, instead trying and failing to offload striker Garrett Burke. Burke is arguably the team's best player and a key scorer for them, but he's also getting expensive and, as a former reserve team player, may be playing above his head. The team was looking to make a profit from somebody who cost them relatively little. But he's still with the team. One key question is, will Burke play out of his mind in a contract year, or will he allow his resentment of the front office to drag down his play on the pitch. The team revolves around him to a certain extent, but other players to watch are wingbacks Mitch Boyd and Noah Brady, who will be key in attack and defense, as well as goalkeeper Peter Dawson. Dawson won the job from former reserve Jamie Roberts in the offseason. The club like his assertiveness and strategic ability, though his physical gifts are not the best. Fans and ownership just want the team to stay up, but it's a goal of the players and the front office to again advance deep into the NA Cup, where they have reached the semifinals and lost to Newfield three consecutive times.

Club: Newfield Athletic

Location: Noviomagus, NB

Colors/Uniform: Green and white hoops

Previous finish: 2nd

Manager: Robert Rice

Starting Lineup (4-1-4-1): Tim Hopkins 29 GK - Bobby Andrews 25 LB - Ellis Fisher 29 CB - Marc Desmarais 30 CB - Bradley Fuller 26 RB - Farooq Nawfal 24 (HIN) DM - Ced Hampton 25 LM - Byron Foster 32 CM - Martin McLaughlin 30 CM - Tony Carr 31 RM - Darren Williams 28 ST

Starting lineup average age: 28.1

Fan expectations: Domestic double

Club goals: Advance in Challengers' Cup, win league

Summary: The goal this year for Newfield is the same goal they have every year, Pinky! To try to win the domestic double! But seriously, Newfield haven't won the league or the Cup in two years, which is almost unthinkable for them. They didn't go out and sign a bunch of players, but they did sign a young Hinodejin from the Timurian league, Farooq Nawfal. They are excited about his defensive abilities and see a lot of potential in him. He'll be the first "1" in their 4-1-4-1 scheme, serving as a first line of defense. But if he struggles, Byron Foster and Martin McLaughlin are both box-to-box types who can backtrack in support. Newfield wins with consistent, hard effort and outstanding technical play. It's not a team full of stars, but it's a team full of players who work well together and within the system Robert Rice has devised. The two fullbacks, Bobby Andrews and Bradley Fuller, will be key in attack and defense, providing width to the attack in support of Darren Williams. Advancing in IFCF play is all very well, but it's domestically where Newfield is focused. They are determined to return to the top.

Club: Olympique Sept-Iles

Location: Sept-Iles, QC

Colors/Uniform: Royal blue and white, with a fleur-de-lis

Previous finish: 1st, Yeoman Division (promoted)

Manager: Guy Belanger

Starting Lineup (4-1-3-2): Ricard Beaulieu 31 GK - Patrice Laurent 25 LB - Antoine Boucher 27 (KSK) CB - Christophe Durand 27 CB - Alexandre Leblanc 28 RB - Edouard Fournier 31 DM - Etienne Richard 25 LM - Francois Dupont 33 CM/CAM - Luc Gagne 23 RM - Pierre Lefebvre 33 ST - Alain Dubois 32 ST

Starting lineup average age: 28.6

Fan expectations: Relegation battler

Club goals: Avoid relegation, advance to Round of 16 of NA Cup

Summary: The club from Sept-Iles are back in the Sovereign Division! Now to figure out how to stay up. They were relegated in Season 10, promoted in Season 13, relegated in Season 14, and then promoted in Season 15. They've taken on Lumberjacks' traditional yo-yo role, and they don't like it. So they went out and spent nearly $1 million in transfer fees on Antoine Boucher from Kelssek. Boucher is a centre back who they hope will shore up their defense and keep them afloat. When they were relegated in Seasons 10 and 14 they allowed 48 and 61 goals, respectively, tough numbers for a club in the top flight. To prove they belong, they'll have to defend much better. Another name to watch is new right midfielder Luc Gagne, newly promoted from the bench. The young Gagne will be tasked with providing width to an otherwise fairly narrow Olympique attack and will be an important part of both sides of the ball. Avoiding relegation would be good, but the team would also like to advance in the Liga B Champions' Trophy as well as avoid crashing out early in the NA Cup, like they did last year to the Third Division's Acadia Caraquet.

Club: FC Portus

Location: Portus Abonae, N & L

Colors/Uniform: Blue and white stripes, like Brighton

Previous finish: 5th

Manager: Patrick Warren

Starting Lineup (4-2-3-1): Jordan Hopkins 26 GK - Christian Summers 28 LB - Agostino Montargis 23 (ASU) CB - George Bowen 32 CB - John King 29 RB - Sean West 26 DM - Brad Perkins 30 DM - Levi Goodman 32 LM - Adam Monday 28 (XAN) AM - Luke Cunningham 28 RM - Aaron Stevenson 27 ST

Starting lineup average age: 28.1

Fan expectations: Compete for IFCF/League title

Club goals: Earn IFCF spot, advance in CEdC, reach semifinals of NA Cup

Summary: FC Portus went from winning the league to missing out on IFCF competition altogether. That is a drop that fans felt, and it's a big reason why the Newfoundland club went out and bought Askari centre back Agostino Montargis and Xannerian midfielder Adam Monday. The team hope both of these players contribute to a renaissance in play. Montargis is a national team player for the Askari Union, but needs to develop, and Portus' defensive philosophy and years of experience are here to help. Meanwhile, the club felt that goalscoring was an issue last year, so Monday, with his ultra-attacking Xannerian style of play, was brought in to bolster the attack. Portus shifted from a conservative 4-4-2 to a more fluid 4-2-3-1 to accommodate Monday and try to provide a balance between attack and defense. Without IFCF play on the international stage, Portus is looking to play well in the Campionato Esportiva di Campeones, a regional competition, instead. Success for Portus this year would look like integrating the new players, finishing in an IFCF spot, and doing well in the CEdC and the NA Cup. It's a tall order, but Portus are a historically strong club, and odds are greater that they'll bounce back than not.

Club: FC St. Martin

Location: Durovernum Cantiacorum, NB

Colors/Uniform: Burgundy and white

Previous finish: 10th

Manager: Todd Mason

Starting Lineup (4-3-3): Justin Crawford 27 GK - Brandon Booth 24 LB - Marcel Benoit 33 CB - Adam Shields 30 CB - Mirutan Tartaguthen 24 (KOR) RB - Quinn Merritt 23 LM - Bruno Kirchner 31 CM - Colton Bagley 25 RM - Silas Griggs 29 LW - Hal Sawyer 33 ST - Dylan Stanfield 22 RW

Starting lineup average age: 27.4

Fan expectations: Midtable/Relegation battler

Club goals: Avoid relegation, allow fewer goals

Summary: In a typical season, the Horsemen never threaten IFCF play (or even upper mid-table), but are never in danger of relegation either. That's why last season's close shave wasn't a good feeling for manager Todd Mason or the front office. They allowed 43 goals and were a -21 in goal differential, both poor results. So they went out and bought right back Mirutan Tartaguthen to shore up the defense and contribute a little on the attack. Tartaguthen came from a pressure-packed environment, and Mason and the other players have been making a conscious effort to provide a more supportive place for him where he can let his true talent blossom without being pressured to "save the team". Other youngsters the club like include Brandon Booth at left back, Colton Bagley at right mid, and Dylan Stanfield at right winger. Admittedly, some of these moves were by necessity or for cost-saving measures, but these young players have room to grow and could be the difference between a lost season and a feel-good one.

Club: Sanctuary FC

Location: Rutupiae, NAAZE

Colors/Uniform: Gold and white

Previous finish: 4th

Manager: Jeff Cross

Starting Lineup (4-3-1-2): Greg Holmes 29 GK - Beau Byers 27 LB - Michel Poirier 31 CB - Carter Thornhill 28 CB - Kevin Dunning 24 RB - Ander Barth 24 (ZRH) CM - Sammy Westmoreland 26 LCM - Nestor Picard 27 RCM - Colby Parker 25 AM - Zachary Harrell 29 ST - Algar Cason 25 (JEC) ST

Starting lineup average age: 26.8

Fan expectations: Compete for IFCF

Club goals: Return to IFCF play, advance at least one round in Challengers' Cup

Summary: What's the first thing you notice about this Sanctuary team? They sport the youngest starting lineup in the NAFL at just under 27 years on average, and they only have one player in the starting lineup older than 30, centre back Michel Poirier. Their 4-3-1-2 will rely a lot on 25 year old Colby Parker at attacking midfielder and new addition Algar Cason from Jeckland to score goals. They played well last year, finishing in 4th place and earning an IFCF spot. Their goal is to return this year, as well as advancing in the Challengers' Cup. Sanctuary are unlikely to compete for the championship, since the NAAZE isn't really big enough to give them the financial muscle they really need, but if they can develop a strong young core and be a consistent IFCF team, that's a success for them. They will also be relying on Ander Barth to direct traffic as the central center midfielder, a role that will require the new #46 to have tactical awareness, pace, attacking flair, and grit on defense. Finally, they crashed out in the Round of 16 of the NA Cup last year. They may not be able to compete for a league title, but a Cup win or at least a deep run would be sweet.

Club: Sporting Vinovium

Location: Vinovium, NB

Colors/Uniform: Blue and gold, somewhat like Boca Juniors

Previous finish: 12th

Manager: Noël Godard

Starting Lineup (4-4-2): Andy Adams 34 - GK Nathan Carpenter 31 LB - Will Peters 33 CB - Matthew Hunt 25 CB - Louis Bowman 28 RB - Joe Chandler 21 LM - Lance Forrest 32 (BRE) CM/DM - Jean-Marc Lapointe 32 CM - Pete Palmer 34 RM - Ronnie Leonard 32 ST - Gabriël Franken 35 (AUD) ST

Starting lineup average age: 30.6

Fan expectations: Relegation battler

Club goals: Avoid relegation, make a profit

Summary: What's the first thing you notice about Vinovium? Well, exactly the opposite of Sanctuary. Where Sanctuary have the youngest lineup in the league, Vinovium have the oldest, at just over 30 and a half years on average. It's not surprising, then, that the most money has been placed on them to be relegated this year. They escaped last year by the skin of their teeth, and with an aging lineup, it would surprise very few fans if they were. To avoid that, they went out and signed veteran Brenecian defensive midfielder Lance Forrest to break up opposing attacks, while recruiting Audioslavian striker Gabriël Franken to get them some goals. Neither player makes them any younger, but Forrest is a physical presence, and Franken is a tall man known to be good with a header. Plus they've played at levels far beyond the NAFL, so Vinovium are hoping they can make mincemeat of the competition. One player to watch may be 21 year-old Joe Chandler, at left midfielder. Chandler is promising young player and may be part of the next good Vinovium side. The club like his pace and stamina, and his crossing ability is growing stronger by the day. Neither the fans nor the front office have any goals this year beyond avoiding relegation, and it will hang over this team's head all year long.

Club: Springs FC

Location: Aquae Sulis, N & L

Colors/Uniform: Bright blue and white, like Man City

Previous finish: 8th

Manager: Gary Cooke

Starting Lineup (3-4-1-2): Glen Greene 28 GK - Matt Woods 24 CB - Harris Foolscap (BRE) 27 CB - Nick Larson 26 CB - Eric Grant 29 LM - Cobalt Layman 29 (BRE) DM - Hank Allen 32 CM - Timothy Hale 30 RM - Toby Weaver 28 AM - Keith Matheson 31 ST - Mike Monaghan 33 ST

Starting lineup average age: 28.8

Fan expectations: Compete for IFCF

Club goals: Earn IFCF spot, reach quarterfinals of NA Cup

Summary: Springs had a horrible second half last year. They went from fourth place at the halfway mark to eighth at the final bell, including losing six of their last seven matches. The goal this year is an improved defense and a better second half that will lead them back to IFCF play. They signed two burly Brenecians known for their physicality in the defense, centre back Harris Foolscap and defensive midfielder Cobalt Layman. The hope is that these two physical players will intimidate opposing attackers and stiffen the back lines of Springs, allowing the attackers to be a bit more reckless up front. Springs' 3-4-1-2 is built to attack, but it often left the team exposed to counterattacks. Springs have had a habit of underperforming recently, including crashing out in the NA Cup, though they did win it two seasons ago. Winning an IFCF place would show they've still got fight and that they're still worthy of being in the conversation in the NAFL. Failure to reach IFCF or to improve at all would relegate them to midtable mediocrity for the foreseeable future.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Wed Sep 23, 2020 1:45 pm

NAFL Season 16 Derby Days

The second annual "Derby Days" with the accompanying pomp, fanfare, hype, and TV coverage is upon us, kicking off the new season!

Londinium Derby Days

Londinium County FC 1–0 Fishermans FC

Archbishop FC 0–0 Londinium County FC

Fishermans FC 1–0 Archbishop FC

The Londinium Derby features three teams, Archbishop, County, and Fishermans, or what you might call a three-ringed derby. County are looking to rebound after a disappointing campaign saw them bounced from the Sovereign Division, Archbishop is riding high after winning the domestic double, and Fishermans are looking to build on their sixth-place Yeoman Division finish last year. County beat their blue-collar rivals 1-0 at home, then go into Kelly Park and earn a hard-fought draw. It's a decent pair of results, but County will need good results if they expect to win promotion. Their owner elected to sit on the profits from Sovereign Division play, since the odds are against any one team winning promotion, so they don't have any cavalry coming to save them. They did sign Ko-oren's Andy Wickham, but at 19, he'll be a substitute more often than not. Finally, Fishermans shock Archbishop in front of a packed house down by the docks. They scored a 67th minute goal and turtled their way to victory. These two results are not a good sign for the Sovereign Division's capital club. Sure, they didn't play their full-strength team in either matchup, but if half your starters can't earn one win from two games against lower-division competition, something could be wrong.

Eboracum Derby Days

Artisans FC 1–3 Heartwood FC

Eboracum City FC 2–1 Artisans FC

Heartwood FC 3–2 Eboracum City FC

The Eboracum Derby is the second three-ringed derby, with Heartwood, Artisans, and City all taking part. They will live in three different divisions this year, with Heartwood in the Sovereign, Artisans in the Yeomen, and City down in the Third. Heartwood starts off well by getting two second-half goals and an energetic performance from Nepharan Reis Caulker to defeat Artisans 3-1 on the road. Then, City trips up Artisans, taking advantage of a late penalty to sink their rivals 2-1. The home fans cheered lustily, while the substantial number of away fans booed mercilessly in protest of the penalty, which some thought a bit flimsy. Still, it bodes well for City, who hope to not spend any more time than necessary in the Third Division.

Labrador Derby Days

Castellum FC 1–0 Labrador United FC

First Nations FC 0–3 Castellum FC

Labrador United FC 2–2 First Nations FC

And here we have our third three-ringed derby, the Labrador Derby Days. Labrador United and Castellum share Mancunium, while First Nations is a bit farther afield, but they all fight for the hearts of fans from Labrador. In the first game, Castellum and Labrador face off, with Rnan Black scoring the only goal in the 23rd minute. Castellum, in keeping with their new more-offensive philosophy, pressed for a second goal, but soon fell back into old habits, content to mostly defend after about 60 minutes or so, and so secured the win. But against a more attacking First Nations squad, Castellum counterattacked twice, getting goals from Black and Alain Veddicho to go up 2-0 at the half. They added a third in the 84th minute from a substitute and weren't challenged that much in the match. It's a good omen for them that they did so well. United and First Nations aren't exactly the best, but they won convincingly. Finally, Labrador and First Nations traded goals back and forth, with Allen Cole's 73rd minute goal tying it for Labrador and securing them the point. They go into the season on shaky footing.

West Newfoundland Derby

Springs FC 2–2 FC Portus

The West Newfoundland Derby ends in a draw, but it's an exciting game. Springs got better on defense, while Portus added an Askari centre back and an attacking Xannerian midfielder to bolster both defense and offense. Early on, Harris Foolscap, Brenecian centre back, earned a yellow card for an overzealous challenge that ended in a goal off of a free kick from Luke Cunningham, and it was 1-0. Foolscap redeemed himself by breaking up a couple of attacks later on. Toby Weaver and Keith Matheson equalized and gave the Aquae Sulis club the lead shortly before halftime. They held back mostly in the second half, but Adam Monday, Xannerian, found Aaron Stevenson to tie the score in the 83rd minute, which was the final. Both clubs wanted to get better in the offseason, but this is a good result for Springs, since they were considered the worse team.

Noviomagus Derby

FC Gránde Vitesse 1–1 Newfield Athletic

The Noviomagus derby's second meeting ends like the first one, in a 1-1 draw. Newfield didn't send their A-team over to Dieppe on the east side, but they played well enough. It was a chance for the league titans to get a look at some younger and less-used players, while Grande Vitesse attempted to build a little momentum for the season by upsetting Newfield. They scored just before halftime, but gave it away in the 55th minute. The fans roared for another goal to take the lead, but it was not forthcoming. One upside for Grande Vitesse was that they got a look at the two young Ko-orenite midfielders they signed in the offseason. Both played about 30 minutes and didn't look overmatched against the Sovereign Division competition. They have the chance to be solid contributors for the side.

Vinovium Derby

Sporting Vinovium 1–0 Lumberjacks FC

These two teams are two of the likeliest relegation candidates this year in the Sovereign Division, and their two regular-season matchups figure to be crucial in that regard. Vinovium signed two older foreigners on free transfers, attempting to bolster their roster to avoid relegation. Lumberjacks, without the financial room to make a move, did not sign anyone. Despite this, the two teams appeared evenly matched through the first two-thirds of the game, until Ronnie Leonard slammed one into the back of the net in the 65th minute to give Sporting the lead. They held on to the lead, and fans generally reacted positively to the win. They knew it was just Lumberjacks, but a little hope is better than nothing.

Isca Dumnoniorum Derby

Homesteaders FC 0–0 Isca Town FC

Sure, the venue may have changed from Isca Town's stadium in the city to Homesteaders' outside the city, but the result didn't. Just like last year, Homesteaders and Isca Town play to a 0-0 draw in the friendly derby. Neither is particularly attacking, but not many chances were generated on both sides, leaving fans disappointed. Isca Town's new center mid, Sait Behruz, played decently enough, but they'll need him to really create and steady the team if they're to have a chance. Isca doesn't want to spend another season in the Yeoman Division. After losing 7-2 on aggregate in the promotion playoff two years ago and then finishing behind Olympique last year, they're ready to move up, but Homesteaders is ready to stand in their way.

Pons Aelius Derby

Maritimes FC 1–4 Bridgewall City FC

Surprise, surprise, this year's derby is actually taken seriously. Typically one of the less-visible derbies, Bridgewall comes out firing with their new 4-2-3-1 and their three new starters, who all played well. Chromatika's Drarinka Schlok became the first woman to appear in an NAFL game, and generally caused issues for Maritimes' back line, even if she didn't score. Eli Couture found the net twice in the first half, due in no small part to Schlok and new left wing Josep Palomer's pressure on the outside. Buddy Ahrens, the attacking midfielder, scored a goal in the second half, and Oliw Schumacher, Ahrens' backup and a new signing, created a chance with a brilliant through ball that Palomer finished to make it 4-0. Maritimes spoiled the shutout, but Bridgewall looked formidable. We'll see how their new lineup fares against Sovereign Division competition, however.

Sept-Iles Derby

FC Mineurs 1–1 Olympique Sept-Iles

Olympique escaped the Yeoman Division for the Sovereign Division this year, so this is Olympique and Mineurs' only matchup this year. Mineurs would have dearly loved to knock off their hated rivals at home, and they pulled ahead on a 39th minute goal, but despite their best efforts to turtle, Olympique's veteran striker Pierre Lefebvre pulled his side even in the 66th minute and it stayed level from there. Antoine Boucher, Olympique's new player from Kelssek, acquitted himself perfectly well, even if he made no spectacular plays. Olympique will have a tough time staying up, so they need him to play well this year.

Kings County Derby

Shepherds FC 0–6 Comrades FC

Who ordered the roasted lamb? Apparently Comrades decided to turn up the heat in this allegedly friendly game. It didn't help that Shepherds had to hold back one of their first-string centre backs due to injury and another defender had to leave via red card. With their opponents' defense hobbled, Comrades pressed the attack and put an impressive six goals past Shepherds to deal them a humiliating defeat at home. While it may have given Comrades a lot of pleasure to rout their rivals, you can bet Shepherds will be pinning up these results and newspaper clippings to give them motivation for the two meetings they'll have this year.

Super Cup

Archbishop FC 1–2 Newfield Athletic

Archbishop won the domestic double last year, so the Super Cup matches Archbishop against Newfield, the Anglican Cup runner-up. It's a titanic matchup between rivals who added a player each last year. Darren Williams found the net in the 26th minute, and Bradley Fuller went up in attack in the 58th minute, knocking home a header to make it 2-0 for Newfield. New Hinodejin acquisition Farooq Nawfal played admirably in defense, anchoring a defense that limited Archbishop's new acquisition Gu Zhalei and striker Freddy Beal for most of the game. In the 84th minute, Dave Sorensen hit one home to narrow the deficit, but it didn't make a difference as Newfield took the exhibition. After a loss to Fishermans and now Newfield, you have to be asking questions about Archbishop.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Fri Sep 25, 2020 6:12 pm

NANFC Season 16 Results

Ligue.1 Ouest Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 AS Saint Jean-Minganie       16  9  3  4  18  12  +6  30 Ouest and Ligue.1 Champions
 2 Tonnere FC                   16  7  5  4  16  10  +6  26
 3 SC Chemin de Fer             16  7  4  5   9   9  +0  25
 4 Sept-Rivieres SC             16  6  4  6  21  15  +6  22
 5 AS Anticosti                 16  5  4  7  10  14  -4  19
 6 St. Pierre-Madeleine FC      16  4  3  9  18  20  -2  15

Ligue.1 Est Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 AS La Tabatiere              16  9  1  6  25  23  +2  28 Est Champions
 2 SC Ile-du-Sterne             16  7  3  6  25  28  -3  24
 3 AS Metis Saint-Augustin      16  6  4  6  20  21  -1  22
 4 Golfe-Nord FC                16  5  4  7  19  21  -2  19
 5 SC Vieux-Fort                16  4  6  6  10  16  -6  18
 6 Mont Parent FC               16  5  3  8  18  20  -2  18

Coupe de Cote-Nord Final

AS Saint Jean-Minganie 0–0 Tonnere FC (1–1 AET) (5–4 pen.)

Division East Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 Sheshatshiu Future FC        15  6  7  2  16  14  +2  25
 2 Grenfell Hospitallers        15  6  6  3  17  14  +3  24
 3 North West Pioneers FC       15  5  5  5  17  14  +3  20
 4 Saint Lewis Icebergs FC      15  5  5  5  13  12  +1  20
 5 Cartwright 1775 FC           15  4  4  7  16  17  -1  16
 6 Alexis Bay FC                15  4  3  8  10  18  -8  15

Division West Standings

Team                                   P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Aurores Boreales FC                   15  9  3  3  27  12  +15  30
 2 Wabush Iron FC                        15  6  4  5  11  11   +0  22
 3 FC Kapwa Pilipinas                    15  6  4  5  19  23   -4  22
 4 Kamistaitusset FC                     15  6  3  6  15  18   -3  21
 5 Labrador City FC                      15  4  7  4  19  18   +1  19
 6 FC Hydroelectric Churchill Falls      15  1  5  9   9  18   -9   8

Division North Standings

Team                         P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 FC Agvituk                  15  8  3  4  18  11  +7  27
 2 Rigolet Southern FC         15  7  3  5  26  22  +4  24
 3 Natsuasish Innu FC          15  6  4  5  26  20  +6  22
 4 KippukKak-Postville FC      15  4  7  4  16  19  -3  19
 5 Makkovik Norsk FC           15  4  5  6  16  22  -6  17
 6 FC Northern Rangers         15  3  4  8  11  19  -8  13

Division South Standings

Team                 P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Devils Cove FC      15 10  2  3  36  12  +24  32
 2 FC Forteau          15  6  6  3  22  15   +7  24
 3 Clearwater FC       15  5  8  2  17  10   +7  23
 4 South Coast FC      15  4  4  7  14  22   -8  16
 5 FC Redcliff         15  3  5  7   9  23  -14  14
 6 Seawolves FC        15  3  3  9  12  28  -16  12

Labrador Championship

Semifinals

Devils Cove FC 5–5 Sheshatshiu Future FC (5–6 AET)
Aurores Boreales FC 0–1 FC Agvituk

Finals

FC Agvituk 1–1 Sheshatshiu Future FC (2–1 AET)

Nunatsuak Cup Final

FC Agvituk 2–0 Sheshatshiu Future FC

New Brunswick Premier League Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Hub City FC                  14  8  4  2  23   8  +15  28
 2 Belle Vallée FC              14  8  3  3  20  12   +8  27
 3 Shediac FC                   14  6  5  3  15  11   +4  23
 4 FC Sackville                 14  5  6  3  12   8   +4  21
 5 Gondola Point FC             14  4  4  6  13  19   -6  16
 6 177 FC                       14  3  5  6   9  17   -8  14
 7 AS Shippagan                 14  2  8  4   8  11   -3  14
 8 FC Cor Unum Grand Sault      14  0  5  9   6  20  -14   5 relegated

New Brunswick Championship Standings

Team                        P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 FC Baie des Chaleurs       14  7  2  5  24  27  -3  23 promoted
2 AFC Gagetown               14  7  1  6  22  18  +4  22
 3 Shiretown FC               14  6  3  5  14  14  +0  21
 4 Minto Power FC             14  6  3  5  22  15  +7  21
 5 Kennebecasis FC            14  5  5  4  17  14  +3  20
 6 FC Érable Restigouche      14  4  6  4   9   9  +0  18
 7 SC Sugarloaf               14  4  3  7  18  23  -5  15
 8 Moosehead FC               14  4  3  7  14  20  -6  15

Coupe d'Espoir/Cup of Hope Final

Hub City FC 0–2 Shediac FC

Nova Scotia A-League Standings

Team                         P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 Shelburne Shipyards FC      14  7  3  4  14  10  +4  24
 2 Suidni Gaels FC             14  5  7  2  16  13  +3  22
 3 Kentville Station FC        14  5  7  2  14   8  +6  22
 4 Bridgewater LaHave FC       14  4  6  4  12  16  -4  18
 5 Windsor Pumpkins FC         14  4  5  5  23  17  +6  17
 6 Walton Alabaster FC         14  4  3  7   6  14  -8  15
 7 AFC 11th of June            14  3  6  5  10  11  -1  15
 8 John Gorham Rangers FC      14  2  7  5  12  18  -6  13 relegated

Nova Scotia B-League Standings

Team                          P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Am Baile Mor Athletic        14  8  3  3  18  15  +3  27 promoted
 2 Royal Annapolis FC           14  8  2  4  21  18  +3  26
 3 Amherst Isthmians            14  6  4  4  12  12  +0  22
 4 Pictou Thistle FC            14  5  4  5  23  19  +4  19
 5 Bible Hill FC                14  5  3  6  13  13  +0  18
 6 Colchester Stewiacke FC      14  5  3  6  13  14  -1  18
 7 County Digby FC              14  5  1  8  16  21  -5  16
 8 MacKinnon Argyle             14  2  4  8  10  14  -4  10

Bluenose Cup Final

Bridgewater LaHave FC 0–0 AFC 11th of June (0–1 AET)

PEI Super League Standings

Team                         P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 North Shore FC              14  7  4  3  19  16  +3  25
 2 Hearts of Alberton FC       14  7  3  4  15  10  +5  24
 3 Barrett's Cross FC          14  6  3  5  20  15  +5  21
 4 Tignish Wild Geese FC       14  6  3  5  19  14  +5  21
 5 Three Rivers FC             14  5  4  5  15  16  -1  19
 6 Queens County South FC      14  5  3  6  20  25  -5  18
 7 FC Souris                   14  4  4  6  15  20  -5  16
 8 Georgetown Dockers FC       14  1  6  7  10  17  -7   9 relegated

PEI Confederation League Standings

Team                              P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 New Linfield FC                  14  6  5  3  19  13  +6  23 promoted
 2 FC O'Leary                       14  6  5  3  23  22  +1  23
 3 The Crick FC                     14  7  2  5  27  22  +5  23
 4 FC Cornwall                      14  5  5  4  14  10  +4  20
 5 Atlantic Link FC                 14  5  4  5  15  13  +2  19
 6 Racing Summerside                14  4  4  6  18  24  -6  16
 7 Miltonvale Park Spartans FC      14  3  6  5  14  19  -5  15
 8 Rocky Point FC                   14  1  7  6  13  20  -7  10

Spud Cup Final

North Shore FC 0–3 Queens County South FC

Newfoundland First Division Standings

Team                         P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 Conception Bay West FC      14  9  1  4  22  18  +4  28
 2 Garden City FC              14  7  3  4  16  13  +3  24
 3 White Fleet FC              14  7  2  5  16  11  +5  23
 4 Paradise Hibernians FC      14  6  2  6  18  17  +1  20
 5 John Nutt FC                14  5  3  6  27  25  +2  18
 6 The Mount FC                14  5  3  6  16  19  -3  18
 7 North Avalon FC             14  3  6  5   8  11  -3  15
 8 Londinium Celtic FC         14  3  2  9  12  21  -9  11 relegated

Newfoundland Second Division Standings

Team                            P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
 1 Volet Gander FC                14  9  3  2  34  11  +23  30 promoted
 2 Burnt Bay FC                   14  7  3  4  21  17   +4  24
 3 Bishop's Falls FC              14  5  4  5  22  20   +2  19
 4 Wolf Cove FC                   14  4  5  5  12  12   +0  17
 5 Athletic Port-aux-Basques      14  4  4  6  14  24  -10  16
 6 Placentia Bohemians FC         14  4  4  6  28  33   -5  16
 7 AC Bonavista                   14  3  6  5  10  20  -10  15
 8 Terra Nova FC                  14  2  7  5  13  17   -4  13

Cabot Cup Final

Garden City FC 3–1 John Nutt FC

Belle Isle Cup Final

FC Agvituk 0–0 Garden City FC (0–1 AET)

National Football Conference Championship

Play-in Round

AS Saint Jean-Minganie 1–0 FC Agvituk
Hub City FC 1–0 North Shore FC

Semifinals

North Shore FC 0–1 AS Saint Jean-Minganie
Shelburne Shipyards FC 1–0 Hub City FC

Finals

Shelburne Shipyards FC 0–1 AS Saint Jean-Minganie

NA Trophy Final (Kelly Park, Londinium)

Kamistaitusset FC 3–3 The Crick FC (3–4 AET)

by **Nova Anglicana** » Fri Sep 25, 2020 8:06 pm

Season 16 Academy Division Results

Sovereign Division Standings

Team                                     P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Sanctuary Rising FC                    12  7  4  1  18   6  +12  25 Champions
  2 Archbishop FC Academy                  12  7  2  3  20  10  +10  23
  3 Heartwood FC Academy                   12  6  2  4  19  15   +4  20
  4 Springs YDP19                          12  6  2  4  19  15   +4  20
  5 FC St. Martin Academy                  12  5  4  3  16  16   +0  19
  6 Bridgewall City Academy                12  5  3  4  11  10   +1  18
  7 Labrador United Academy                12  5  2  5  12  11   +1  17
  8 FC Portus U19                          12  4  4  4  14  14   +0  16
  9 Newfield Athletic Academy              12  4  3  5  18  16   +2  15
 10 Jeunesse Sept-Îles                     12  3  3  6  14  18   -4  12
 11 Castellum FC Academy                   12  2  5  5   9  13   -4  11
 12 Sporting Vinovium Academy Premier      12  1  6  5   7  18  -11   9
 13 FC Young Lumberjacks                   12  3  0  9  10  25  -15   9

In the third season of the Academy Division, Sanctuary Rising wins that title they just missed out on last year. Despite drawing both of their final games and Archbishop winning both of their final games, the Rutupiae club comes out on top. Meanwhile, Vinovium and Lumberjacks combine for one win, but somehow pick up eighteen points between them. It's a season to forget for both squads.

Yeoman Division Standings

Team                               P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 19.FC Londinium County        12  7  3  2  22  11  +11  24
  2 Isca Town Young Boys          12  7  3  2  22  13   +9  24
  3 Homesteaders FC Pioneers      12  6  3  3  19  15   +4  21
  4 Shepherds FC Academy          12  7  0  5  18  16   +2  21
  5 FC Mineurs Académique         12  6  3  3  14  12   +2  21
  6 Comrades FC Academy           12  6  2  4  20  18   +2  20
  7 Académie Grande Vitesse       12  5  2  5  18  18   +0  17
  8 FC Acadia Youth               12  5  0  7  11  16   -5  15
  9 Eboracum City Academy         12  4  1  7  17  24   -7  13
 10 Maritimes FC Cadets           12  4  1  7  12  12   +0  13
 11 First Nations Future FC       12  4  0  8  18  27   -9  12
 12 Fishermans FC Academy         12  3  2  7   7  12   -5  11
 13 Apprentices FC                12  2  4  6  15  19   -4  10

County's youth team drops down into the Yeoman Division and promptly wins the thing. Yes, it's on GD over Isca Town, but a win is a win. They caught Isca Town on the final day, winning while Young Boys were drawing. They hope it's a good omen for the big club's promotion hopes. Apprentices, however, drop all the way from second to last and Homesteaders go from 12th to 3rd.

IFCF Rising Stars' Cup

Heartwood FC Academy 0-4 Southend AC Academy
Southend AC Academy 0-0 Heartwood FC Academy (4-0 aggregate)

Heartwood gets a rude welcome to Rising Stars' play, getting pasted in front of the home fans by Baker Park's Southend AC Academy. The away trip is mostly a formality and a tourism opportunity for Heartwood's kids, as it's incredibly hard to make up a four-goal deficit on the road. The 0-0 draw at least avoids a loss. Hopefully the next Nova Anglican youth team will do better.

But we all know that Academy Division play and even Rising Stars' play (disappointing as it was) is only the warm-up for the real show: the Academy Cup. This year, Halifax Shamrocks, Pointe-Noire Stars, Signal Hill FC, Reversing Rapids FC, AFC West Royalty, and Chocolate Lake Sporting Club were the lucky non-Academy Division sides who qualified for the Academy Cup. Let the Cup begin!

First Round
Sanctuary Rising FC 3–1 Chocolate Lake Sporting Club
Chocolate Lake Sporting Club 0–6 Sanctuary Rising FC (1-9 aggregate)

Archbishop FC Academy 3–0 Halifax Shamrocks
Halifax Shamrocks 1–5 Archbishop FC Academy (1-8 aggregate)

Heartwood FC Academy 5–1 Pointe-Noire Stars
Pointe-Noire Stars 0–7 Heartwood FC Academy (1-12 aggregate)

Springs YDP19 2–1 AFC West Royalty
AFC West Royalty 3–3 Springs YDP19 (4-5 aggregate)

FC St. Martin Academy 1–3 Reversing Rapids FC
Reversing Rapids FC 0–5 FC St. Martin Academy (3-6 aggregate)

Bridgewall City Academy 4–1 Signal Hill FC
Signal Hill FC 1–0 Bridgewall City Academy (2-4 aggregate)

Labrador United Academy 4–1 Apprentices FC
Apprentices FC 0–2 Labrador United Academy (1-6 aggregate)

FC Portus U19 1–0 Fishermans FC Academy
Fishermans FC Academy 0–1 FC Portus U19 (0-2 aggregate)

Newfield Athletic Academy 3–1 First Nations Future FC
First Nations Future FC 1–4 Newfield Athletic Academy (2-7 aggregate)

Jeunesse Sept-Îles 2–1 Maritimes FC Cadets
Maritimes FC Cadets 1–3 Jeunesse Sept-Îles (2-5 aggregate)

Castellum FC Academy 0–0 Eboracum City Academy
Eboracum City Academy 0–7 Castellum FC Academy (0-7 aggregate)

Sporting Vinovium Academy Premier 2–1 FC Acadia Youth
FC Acadia Youth 0–5 Sporting Vinovium Academy Premier (1-7 aggregate)

FC Young Lumberjacks 0–1 Académie Grande Vitesse
Académie Grande Vitesse 2–2 FC Young Lumberjacks (3-2 aggregate)

19.FC Londinium County 0–0 Comrades FC Academy
Comrades FC Academy 5–1 19.FC Londinium County (5-1 aggregate)

Isca Town Young Boys 1–3 FC Mineurs Académique
FC Mineurs Académique 0–1 Isca Town Young Boys (3-2 aggregate)

Homesteaders FC Pioneers 1–0 Shepherds FC Academy
Shepherds FC Academy 0–1 Homesteaders FC Pioneers (0-2 aggregate)

None of the amateur or non-academy clubs manage to drop an academy team, though Reversing Rapids did put St. Martin in a tight spot. Their 3-1 first-leg win meant that Heartwood had to win by three goals, or win by two while scoring at least four to advance. They elected to blast Rapids 5-0 to move on. Speaking of blasting teams, Sanctuary Rising, Archbishop, and Heartwood dropped their non-academy clubs by an astounding aggregate of 29-3. Other notable results include Castellum's youth team handing out a paddling to City's academy, 7-0, in one game, and Comrades crushing County 5-1 to advance.

Round of 16
Sanctuary Rising FC 4–2 Homesteaders FC Pioneers
Homesteaders FC Pioneers 1–1 Sanctuary Rising FC (3-5 aggregate)

Archbishop FC Academy 1–0 FC Mineurs Académique
FC Mineurs Académique 1–2 Archbishop FC Academy (1-3 aggregate)

Heartwood FC Academy 3–1 Comrades FC Academy
Comrades FC Academy 1–2 Heartwood FC Academy (2-5 aggregate)

Springs YDP19 1–2 Académie Grande Vitesse
Académie Grande Vitesse 0–1 Springs YDP19 (2-2 aggregate, Grande Vitesse advances on away goals)

FC St. Martin Academy 1–2 Sporting Vinovium Academy Premier
Sporting Vinovium Academy Premier 1–3 FC St. Martin Academy (3-4 aggregate)

Bridgewall City Academy 0–1 Castellum FC Academy
Castellum FC Academy 1–1 Bridgewall City Academy (2-1 aggregate)

Labrador United Academy 0–2 Jeunesse Sept-Îles
Jeunesse Sept-Îles 3–1 Labrador United Academy (5-1 aggregate)

FC Portus U19 0–1 Newfield Athletic Academy
Newfield Athletic Academy 1–1 FC Portus U19 (2-1 aggregate)

Once again, Sanctuary Rising, Archbishop, and Heartwood don't have too many issues advancing. But Springs loses out on aggregate to Grande Vitesse, St. Martin needs to rally again to advance, Castellum upsets Bridgewall, Sept-Iles upsets Labrador fairly easily, in fact, and Newfield holds off Portus to advance. Four higher seeds and four lower seeds advance, with Grande Vitesse the only Yeoman Division team still alive.

Quarterfinals
Sanctuary Rising FC 1–3 Newfield Athletic Academy
Newfield Athletic Academy 0–4 Sanctuary Rising FC (3-5 aggregate)

Archbishop FC Academy 0–0 Jeunesse Sept-Îles
Jeunesse Sept-Îles 1–2 Archbishop FC Academy (1-2 aggregate)

Heartwood FC Academy 1–0 Castellum FC Academy
Castellum FC Academy 2–0 Heartwood FC Academy (2-1 aggregate)

FC St. Martin Academy 7–0 Académie Grande Vitesse
Académie Grande Vitesse 2–1 FC St. Martin Academy (2-8 aggregate)

Well, at least three out of four quarterfinal matchups were competitive. St. Martin decided they weren't getting upset or even taking the chance on needing to rally, crushing Grande Vitesse 7-0 at home before taking it easy in game two. Meanwhile, Newfield wins solidly in game one, but Sanctuary Rising bounces back to crush them 4-0 and advance. Archbishop finds the goals button in leg two, finishing off Sept-Iles 2-1, and Castellum upsets another team, winning 2-1 on aggregate after their 2-0 home victory. Up next, Sanctuary Rising tries to get a handle on St. Martin's attack, while Archbishop will try to avoid being Castellum's next victim.

Semifinals

Sanctuary Rising FC 2–1 FC St. Martin Academy
FC St. Martin Academy 3–7 Sanctuary Rising FC (4-9 aggregate)

Archbishop FC Academy 2–0 Castellum FC Academy
Castellum FC Academy 1–2 Archbishop FC Academy (1-4 aggregate)

Archbishop and Castellum is fairly tame, with Archbishop winning both legs in unspectacular fashion to move on to the finals. It's the Sanctuary-St. Martin semifinal that's the big one, featuring thirteen goals between the two games. St. Martin is used to losing the first leg, but they weren't prepared for the onslaught Sanctuary Rising unleashed on them in Durovernum Cantiacorum. Five goals in the first half obliterate the three the home team comes up with, then two more in the second half for good measure. This is how it's meant to be, #1 vs. #2 in the final.

Academy Cup Final (Kelly Park, Londinium)

Sanctuary Rising FC 0–2 Archbishop FC Academy

Archbishop shows they have as solid an academy as any team in the NAFL, getting a workmanlike 2-0 win in front of the biggest crowd they've probably played for. The senior club fans come out to cheer the academy team and root them on to victory, raising the Academy Cup. They will also play in the Rising Stars Cup for the first time.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Sat Sep 26, 2020 7:16 pm

NAFL Season 16 Pre-season IFCF Matches

Teams from the NAFL qualified for IFCF play for the first time in many years, and will compete against club teams from other nations as the season progresses. But the preliminary rounds of IFCF competition actually take place prior to the beginning of the NAFL season. We will see if they can shake off the rust or if they will be unprepared in these early rounds.

IFCF Champions' League Extra Preliminary Round

Archbishop FC 1-1 Alla Fofokoy (TAL)
Alla Fofokoy (TAL) 2-1 Archbishop FC (3-2 aggregate)

At what point do we start worrying about Archbishop? In two preseason friendlies against Yeoman Division clubs, they went 0-1-1, then lost the Super Cup to Newfield, and now fail to make it past Talamia's Alla Fofokoy in the Champions' League. A 1-1 draw at home is all very well, but it does leave them needing a win or 2 away goals on a draw to advance. Freddy Beal slotted one home in the home leg, and Gu Zhalei netted his first in Talamia, but the defense couldn't hold up, conceding late to consign Archbishop to defeat.

The good news is, all Champions' League losers drop into the next round of the Challengers' Cup, so Archbishop will get a chance to redeem themselves. However, they aren't exactly inspiring confidence against international competition, leaving some fans already complaining before the NAFL season proper has started. Will they be able to bounce back? They will have a full schedule, with the Challengers' Cup game coming up, as well as the Cup Winners' Cup preliminary round and the regular season. They may have to send the reserves out for one or more of those games.

IFCF Challengers' Cup Extra Preliminary Round

Sanctuary FC 2-2 Club Sparta (LIS)
Club Sparta (LIS) 2-0 Sanctuary FC (4-2 aggregate)

Sanctuary were so happy they managed to get into IFCF play. Back in the old UICA days, they qualified once, but were perpetually on the edge, so getting to compete is excellent. Even better, it's an intra-Esportivan game against Lisander's Club Sparta. In Rutupiae, Algar Cason and striker mate Zachary Harrell score a goal each, but the Lisanderians match it each time, and the first leg ends in a draw. This puts Sanctuary behind the eight-ball, needing to win or to score three goals in a draw in order to advance. They are unable to do either in Sirenia, as the home fans power Sparta to a 2-0 win and advancement.

That's the first goal of Sanctuary's ownership (advance in IFCF play) down the drain. Their second goal, returning to IFCF play, is certainly in play. They will hope that their young team and no more IFCF games (plus jet lag for most opponents going to Rutupiae) will give them a competitive edge in-season and that they will be able to compete with the best in the NAFL.

IFCF Liga B Champions' Trophy Extra Preliminary Round

Comrades FC 3-1 Athletic Club Rumiatzi (ASG)
Athletic Club Rumiatzi (ASG) 2-3 Comrades FC (3-6 aggregate)

The only team from Nova Anglicana to actually advance in the IFCF, Comrades did it in style, winning both legs over Astograth's Athletic Club Rumiatzi. They raced out to a 2-0 halftime lead in Kings County, then traded goals in the second half to come away with the win. Despite being able to advance with a one-goal loss, Comrades fought their hardest in Astograth, coming back from 1-0 and 2-1 deficits to tie the score before getting an 89th minute goal to seal the victory and their advancement in LBCT competition. Hopefully this bodes well for Yeoman Division play.

Vilitan Cove Invitational Preliminary Round

Zilverstraat SC (TSA) 1-1 Castellum FC
Castellum FC 2-3 Zilverstraat SC (TSA) (3-4 aggregate)

Castellum, finishing midtable last season, did not qualify for IFCF play. However, NAFL teams elected to send a representative to the Vilitan Cove Invitational. Traditionally, the VCI is a competition for teams who do not make IFCF play and who are exemplars of "Fair Play", meaning fewest yellow and red cards. However, the NAFL owners voted to send Castellum under the grounds of "Sportmanship", which not only covers their gracious play on the pitch, but includes their philanthropy and volunteer efforts off the pitch. Going forward, the NAFL have announced an annual competition for the VCI spot, using not only fair and gracious play on the pitch, but also an off the field component, in which team and fans compete to raise money for charity and volunteer in their communities. The Ministries of Culture and Social Services have kicked in as well, co-sponsoring a grant program specifically for fans of NAFL clubs who produce innovative or high-impact charitable projects.

In the first leg, Castellum come away with a draw in The Sarian, a good result for an away match. Dan Leonard slipped one by the keeper in the 73rd minute to tie the score and send the Soldiers home feeling good. However, Zilverstraat built an early 2-0 lead in Mancunium on the return leg, and despite goals from Rnan Black and Luke Holloway, they could not overcome the deficit. A win would have sent them through, but as is, they will stay and prepare for the NAFL season.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Tue Sep 29, 2020 1:44 pm

NAFL Season 16: Part 1

Season 16 is the second season since the return to IFCF play, it's also the first to feature non-Nova Anglican players in quite some time. 8 teams think they have a shot at 4 IFCF places, and more than just Newfield or Archbishop think they can win it all. How will the season kick off?

MATCHDAY 1
FC Portus 0-2 Labrador United FC
Castellum FC 1-1 Sporting Vinovium
Olympique Sept-Iles 1-4 Sanctuary FC
Bridgewall City FC 1-1 Lumberjacks FC
Newfield FC 7-2 FC St. Martin
Archbishop FC 2-0 Heartwood FC

The first weekend of the NAFL begins with a surprise victory, Labrador traveling to Portus Abonae to win 2-0 behind a pair of goals from veteran striker Allen Cole! Portus appeared disorganized, with the team not yet adjusted to the new 4-2-3-1 style. The other notable result is Newfield blasting St. Martin 7-2 behind braces from Darren Williams and Tony Carr. Elsewhere, Sanctuary thrash Olympique, with Algar Cason scoring his first goal in league play, and Archbishop picking up a workmanlike 2-0 win over Heartwood. Gu Zhalei scored and assisted in his first NAFL game. Castellum drop two points at home to Vinovium, and Bridgewall do the same against Lumberjacks. Disappointing start for both teams.

IFCF Challengers' Cup First Preliminary Round First Leg

Bridgewall City 3-4 Londonderry (OME)
Newfield Athletic 2-2 Lâ Lüs (FFD)
Archbishop FC 1-3 Marionville (SCT)

With three teams in the Challengers' Cup, midweek football has never been hotter. All three teams host their respective opponents, with varying degrees of success. Newfield has the most, holding Farfadillis' venerable and dangerous Lâ Lüs to a draw. Any time one can allow only two goals to a team of (mostly) Farves, it's a success. Bridgewall get goals from Eli Couture and Drarinka Schlok, but concede late to drop their home match to Omerica's Londonderry. A loss and four away goals mean a win by multiple goals in the away leg is about their only hope. Finally, Archbishop look mostly outplayed by Schottia's Marionville, succumbing 3-1 in Kelly Park to the scattered boos of their fans. Crashing out of the Challengers' Cup on the first opportunity would not be a good look for the defending league champions.

MATCHDAY 2
Labrador United FC 3-1 Springs FC
Sanctuary FC 0-2 FC Portus
Lumberjacks FC 1-1 Castellum FC
FC St. Martin 1-2 Olympique Sept-Iles
Heartwood FC 1-0 Bridgewall City FC
Archbishop FC 2-3 Newfield FC

Whoo, Matchday 2 starts off with a bang with Archbishop-Newfield! In Kelly Park, in front of more than 40,000 fans, partisans of both sides lustily cheering, Newfield's Ced Hampton opens the scoring by bending one in for Darren Williams in the 17th minute. 12 minutes later, Martin McLaughlin makes an aggressive run into the box and Tony Carr finds him, slipping one past the defenders and McLaughlin deftly nudges it home past Roy Cahill, silencing the Archbishop crowd and putting more worry on to manager Oliver Kelley. That's the score at half. But in the 54th, Gu Zhalei makes a couple of nice moves, draws a defender and finds a now unmarked Micah Galbraith to draw the capital club within one. Things seem to be turning in Archbishop's favor, and the momentum swings even farther towards them when Dave Sorensen puts one past Tim Hopkins to level the score in the 69th minute. Nice. But as much as Archbishop press, Newfield's back line holds strong. Then, in the 87th minute, Marc Desmarais begins a counterattacking, finding Farooq Nawfal, who finds Byron Foster, who powers down the field before Bradley Fuller runs onto a perfect through ball and puts it home, shocking the Archbishop crowd and bringing the Newfield fans to their feet. Archbishop are shocked, looking unable to put anything together in the waning moments of regular time or in added time. It's a classic game and a gut punch for Archbishop.

Elsewhere, Labrador drop Springs 3-1, with Scott Banks, Austin Ross, and even Jack Cunningham getting one home on a set piece. Three goals from players under 30 gives the club and the fans hope, and Labrador are off to their best start in years. Portus bounce back by defeating Sanctuary in Rutupiae, a big win, and Heartwood takes advantage of a Bridgewall club that are maybe a little distracted by IFCF play to down them 1-0. Olympique defeat St. Martin, and Lumberjacks and Castellum play to a draw in Vinovium.

IFCF Challengers' Cup First Preliminary Round Second Leg

Londonderry (OME) 0-2 Bridgewall City FC (4-5 aggregate)
Lâ Lüs (FFD) 2-2 Newfield Athletic (2-3 AET, 4-5 aggregate)
Marionville (SCT) 0-1 Archbishop FC (3-2 aggregate)

Three wins, but only two teams moving on. Bridgewall find their defensive abilities return to them in Omerica, blanking Londonderry and getting a goal from Delaclava's Josep Palomer. Still, a 1-0 lead meant Londonderry would advance on away goals, and manager Charlie Berry sent on Oliw Schumacher from Zeta Reka & Huegaltaldom to replace a flagging Buddy Ahrens late in the match. Schumacher showed off some fancy dribbling to score an 88th minute goal and send Bridgewall through, resulting in a post-match mobbing by teammates and coaches alike. Meanwhile, Newfield held their own against Lâ Lüs, taking the match to extra time before fullback Bobby Andrews headed one home in the 113th minute to propel the Noviomagus club to victory. Archbishop, needing to win by three goals or more or else score four, manages to defeat a team full of mostly substitutes in Schottia, but a 1-0 win does nothing to move the needle and they're heading home once again. The Cup Winners' Cup is their last chance at interassociational glory.

MATCHDAY 3
Springs FC 3-0 Sporting Vinovium
Labrador United FC 0-2 Sanctuary FC
FC Portus 3-3 FC St. Martin
Castellum FC 1-0 Heartwood FC
Olympique Sept-Iles 2-2 Archbishop FC
Bridgewall City FC 0-0 Newfield FC

Talk about just what the doctor ordered for Springs! Fresh off a disappointing 3-1 loss to Labrador, Springs come home to Sporting Vinovium, and thrash them, 3-0. Keith Matheson, Mike Monaghan, Toby Weaver, and Timothy Hale play fun and fancy-free football to create three goals and keep Vinovium on their heels the entire game. As far as the big clubs, Archbishop are coming off of getting kicked out of the Challengers' Cup, and they don't look fully there in Sept-Îles. Stade Sept-Îles is an incredibly tough place to play, even more so if you're struggling coming in. Alain DuBois and Francois Dupont beat Cahill and it's all Archbishop can do to get a draw. Bridgewall and Newfield play to a grinding draw in Pons Aelius, with neither giving an inch and several bumps and bruises before it's all over.

Sanctuary put a stop to Labrador's hot start, with Nestor Picard and Zach Harrell getting the goals in the frozen north. It's a welcome bounce-back for Sanctuary, but is it a sign of things to come for Labrador? Portus gets three goals, but completely loses it against St. Martin to come away with a draw. There are a few things thrown on the pitch, and plenty of muttered "this never would have happened the old way" in bars after the match. Finally, Castellum down Heartwood 1-0 behind Rnan Black and strong defense, the classic Castellum way.

IFCF Challengers' Cup Second Preliminary Round, First Leg

Bridgewall City FC 0-0 Cornellians (SCT)
Newfield Athletic 1-4 Colonial Sile (VIL)

Bridgewall had a nasty shock when they found they were drawn against Cornellians for the second preliminary round. Cornellians were the top-seeded team in that round, and miles ahead of Bridgewall in terms of international experience and prestige. And yet somehow, they managed to hold them to a draw. Manager Berry basically divided his team in two, the four attacking players and the six defending players, and chose to play conservatively, giving the four up-front players not much support from the rest of the team. There was some grumbling at this strategy, but after a draw and no away goals against the best team they could possibly face, Berry was feeling vindicated. Now they just had to travel and face a presumably rabid Cornellians fanbase, in a situation where hanging back isn't going to win you anything. Also, Newfield are flattened by Vilita's Colonial Sile in Noviomagus. It's a rough day for everyone involved and looks likely to put paid to Newfield's run.

IFCF Cup Winners' Cup Extra Preliminary Round, First Leg

Kisangani City (CCG) 2-0 Archbishop FC

Having played three league games, two pre-season IFCF games, and two in-season IFCF games, with another coming up this weekend, Archbishop elected to send a hefty chunk of the reserve squad to Chinese Congo and keep the starters at home for a rest. The substitutes and reserve team put up a good fight, but Kisangani City were just too good, and a clean sheet plus two goals means Archbishop are in a hole for the return leg.

MATCHDAY 4
Sanctuary FC 1-0 Springs FC
Lumberjacks FC 5-0 Sporting Vinovium
FC St. Martin 1-1 Labrador United FC
Archbishop FC 3-2 FC Portus
Newfield FC 2-0 Castellum FC
Bridgewall City FC 4-3 Olympique Sept-Iles

Where else can we start but withe Vinovium Derby? The preseason results saw a win for Sporting, but Lumberjacks pay that back and then some here, pouring in five goals past veteran Andy Adams. Garrett Burke scores his first two of the year in the rout. Elsewhere, Archbishop compound Portus' misery with a 3-2 win in front of the home fans, getting another goal from Gu Zhalei and one from Everett Sessions to win it. Bridgewall allows three goals, highly unusual, but scores four, even more unusual, to take down Olympique. Give Palomer and Schlok credit for the two second-half goals that made the difference. Newfield down Castellum, getting to 3-1-0, and Sanctuary pick up another win, this one courtesy of an Algar Cason penalty (he's deadly from the spot). Lastly, St. Martin and Labrador play to a draw, with young Dylan Stanfield scoring in the 80th minute to pull back the draw for the Horsemen at home.

IFCF Challengers' Cup Second Preliminary Round, Second Leg

Cornellians (SCT) 1-1 Bridgewall City FC (1-1 aggregate, Bridgewall advance on away goals)
Colonial Sile (VIL) 1-1 Newfield Athletic (5-2 aggregate)

The strategy pays off! Not allowing an away goal gives Bridgewall the victory, as they find an away goal to slip by Cornellians and into the third preliminary round. It's Buddy Ahrens weaving through the defense to slip one past the keeper in the 73rd minute, followed by a heaping 20 minute helping of Bridgewall's famous defense. It's just enough and they are now the final Nova Anglican team standing (bar Olympique, whose LBCT play hasn't started yet). Newfield sends mostly subs to Vilita, and comes away with a draw. It's valuable experience and not much more. They'll now look for league success.

IFCF Cup Winners' Cup Extra Preliminary Round, Second Leg

Archbishop FC 1-0 Kisangani City (CCG) (1-2 aggregate)

The starters are back for this one, and it produces a win, but it's not enough. Dave Sorensen scores, but Kisangani City holds off Archbishop's late attempts and advance to the next round. It's a psychological blow, losing three times in the first round of three separate competitions, but look on the bright side. They got three extra home games worth of tickets and TV money (substantial), as well as three rounds' worth of prize money (peanuts, since they lost in the first round three times), and that revenue will help. Additionally, they can now focus on league success without having to worry about international play.

MATCHDAY 5
Springs FC 1-1 Lumberjacks FC
Sanctuary FC 3-1 FC St. Martin
Sporting Vinovium 1-2 Heartwood FC
Labrador United FC 0-3 Archbishop FC
FC Portus 1-2 Bridgewall City FC
Castellum FC 1-2 Olympique Sept-Iles

Newfield takes a break this week, so our headliner is Bridgewall. They're coming off an emotional second leg in IFCF play where they knocked off a high-seeded Cornellians team from Schottia, but they don't appear to have a letdown, instead consigning Portus to their second loss in a row and third in five games. It's Eli Couture with a deft flick past Portus' keeper, Jordan Hopkins, younger brother of Newfield keeper Tim Hopkins, who secures the victory. Elsewhere, Archbishop cruise past Labrador in Mancunium, with Gu Zhalei racking up two more assists, Sanctuary down St. Martin, getting two late goals from Sammy Westmoreland and Zarles Biktorika to pull away, and Heartwood slip by Vinovium on a late, contested, penalty. Springs and Lumberjacks play to a draw, while Alain Veddicho's first NAFL regular-season goal isn't enough, as Olympique get two from Etienne Richard to claim the victory.

IFCF Challengers' Cup Third Preliminary Round, First Leg

Bridgewall City FC 2-0 Unioneers (EUR)

It's another tough draw for Bridgewall, getting a team from mighty Eura's mighty Gold League in the form of Unioneers. But this time, Berry plays a more holistic strategy, allowing the two halves of his team to work together as one, and it comes together in a surprising 2-0 win over the Euran club. Eli Couture scores in the 22nd minute, and right back Alec St. Pierre scores only his fifth goal in as many seasons in the 81st minute to give Bridgewall a little room for error on the return leg.

IFCF Liga B Champions' Trophy Third Preliminary Round, First Leg

Olympique Sept-Iles 1-2 BSC Kroningdam (TSA)

BSC Kroningdam, from The Sarian, walk into Stade Sept-Îles and leave with a 2-1 win. Olympique has an off day this weekend, so they can lick their wounds and plot their revenge. But it will be difficult. Olympique doesn't have a lot of experience playing against international competition, and they'll need to bring their A-game offensively if they expect to win.

MATCHDAY 6
FC St. Martin 2-2 Springs FC
Heartwood FC 4-5 Lumberjacks FC
Archbishop FC 1-0 Sanctuary FC
Newfield FC 3-0 Sporting Vinovium
Bridgewall City FC 1-0 Labrador United FC
Castellum FC 1-2 FC Portus

In probably the most consequential game this week, Archbishop get a 31st minute goal from young Sean Reed, and spend the rest of the time mostly frustrating Sanctuary's attacks. Sanctuary manager Jeff Cross is all over the referees in the 78th because he believes a challenge by Archbishop centre back Paul Barkley is in the box and therefore a penalty, but to no avail. The resulting free kick comes to nothing and Sanctuary's best chance goes by the wayside. Staying at the top of the table is Newfield, who easily dispatch Vinovium in a clash of New Brunswick sides. Vinovium have been shut out three times so far, losing 11-0 on aggregate in those games. Lumberjacks and Heartwood play an exciting match in Eboracum, with Garrett Burke notching two more goals, including the game-winner in the 82nd. Reis Caulker, Andy Walker, Danny Coleman, and Ross Howard all pick up goals for Heartwood, but it's not enough.

Portus bounce back, getting a goal from Adam Monday to defeat Castellum, who waste a marker from Rnan Black. Bridgewall continue to do well, shutting out Labrador, with Drarinka Schlok scoring the only goal on a header. She is a weapon at more than 7 feet tall in these situations. Finally, Springs and St. Martin play to a 2-2 draw. A couple of nice goals in the game, Silas Griggs for the Horsemen and Mike Monaghan for the Aquae Sulis club, but neither can will their team to victory.

IFCF Challengers' Cup Third Preliminary Round, Second Leg

Unioneers (EUR) 3-1 Bridgewall City FC (3-3 aggregate, Bridgewall advance on away goals)

St. Pierre's goal turned out to be a lifesaver, as Bridgewall lose by two goals on the return leg. It results in a 3-3 aggregate, which Bridgewall wins thanks to Josep Palomer's goal in the 71st minute. It pulled them to 2-1, and made it that much more difficult for Unioneers to advance. They did concede one more, but the Euran club needed four to advance, and they couldn't find it, despite six minutes of extra time. Now Bridgewall really is the last team left standing from Nova Anglicana.

IFCF Liga B Champion's Trophy Third Preliminary Round, Second Leg

BSC Kroningdam (TSA) 1-1 Olympique Sept-Iles (3-2 aggregate)

Olympique's run is short, as Kroningdam's defense holds up against a barrage of Quebecois attacks in the second half. The game finishes 1-1, despite Alain Dubois and Pierre Lefebvre's best efforts up front. They will head home and prep for Vinovium.

MATCHDAY 7
Springs FC 0-1 Heartwood FC
FC St. Martin 1-6 Archbishop FC
Lumberjacks FC 0-1 Newfield FC
Sanctuary FC 2-1 Bridgewall City FC
Sporting Vinovium 2-0 Olympique Sept-Iles
Labrador United FC 2-0 Castellum FC

Archbishop run rampant in Durovernum Cantiacorum, scoring six against a St. Martin side that saw veteran centre back Marcel Benoit miss this game with a sore hamstring and young fullback Brandon Booth get dismissed for an ill-advised challenge against Micah Galbraith. On ten men, with a backup centre back, St. Martin can do nothing but watch Gu Zhalei pick up a goal and an assist, Freddy Beal score twice, Dave Sorensen find the net again, and Galbraith and right back Damian Hillman put the icing on the cake late. Newfield keep pace, slipping past Lumberjacks in what is becoming a rivalry game, given the two teams' recent history in the NA Cup, while Sanctuary put an end to Bridgewall's three-game winning streak, perhaps taking advantage of Bridgewall traveling to Rushmore and then Esportiva in the same week. Heartwood find a way to get past Springs, with Dean Ramsey's cross finding the relentless Reis Caulker in the box for a 68th minute goal that proves to be the final margin. Vinovium claim their first win, defeating Olympique behind goals from Franken and Pete Palmer, two veterans. Feels good to get off the schneid. Labrador also bounce back, winning the Mancunium Derby against Castellum behind goals from Daniel Barber and Scott Banks.

IFCF Challengers' Cup Playoff Round, First Leg

Bridgewall City FC 2-1 Colonial Sile (VIL)

Who do Bridgewall draw in the playoff round but our old friends, Colonial Sile? We last saw them eliminating Newfield fairly easily (5-2 on aggregate), and now they come to Pons Aelius. Unlike their last visit to Nova Anglican soil, this one isn't nearly as hospitable, as Ahrens and Schlok score in the first half and Bridgewall hang on for the 2-1 win. They're in the driver's seat heading back to Vilita.

MATCHDAY 8
Archbishop FC 2-0 Springs FC
Newfield FC 3-1 Heartwood FC
Bridgewall City FC 2-0 FC St. Martin
Olympique Sept-Iles 0-2 Lumberjacks FC
Castellum FC 1-1 Sanctuary FC
FC Portus 0-1 Sporting Vinovium

Big ouch for Portus this week, losing to Vinovium on a ball that deflected off of veteran centreback George Bowen. Ordinarily, most teams can come back from a bad bounce, but Portus didn't have it this week and they go down at home to jeering fans. They and Vinovium are now tied in the standings. Both Archbishop and Newfield take care of business at home in easy, breezy, two-goal wins. They remain tied atop the standings at 19 points each. Bridgewall get a goal from Palomer and one from Couture to send St. Martin to their fifth loss of the season and keep them winless. Castellum draw Sanctuary in a bit of good news for the Soldiers' Club; they would have preferred a win, but a goal from Veddicho is a goal and a point is a point. Finally, Lumberjacks travel to Sept-Îles, where Mitch Boyd scores his first of the season and Garrett Burke adds his fifth late to secure the victory. Lumberjacks are in 5th, sitting on a +7 goal differential and feeling good about themselves.

IFCF Challengers' Cup Playoff Round, Second Leg

Colonial Sile 0-0 Bridgewall City FC (1-2 aggregate)

There's no need for away goals this time, as Bridgewall mostly turtle their way through this one. Even Buddy Ahrens doesn't play as far up as he usually does. Berry can smell victory, plus he wants to rest his players, so he adopts a strategy that's less taxing and less risky. It pays off again with a scoreless draw that send Bridgewall one round away from the group stage.

MATCHDAY 9
Springs FC 2-0 Newfield FC
Archbishop FC 2-2 Bridgewall City FC
Heartwood FC 1-1 Olympique Sept-Iles
FC St. Martin 1-0 Castellum FC
Lumberjacks FC 0-4 FC Portus
Sporting Vinovium 1-2 Labrador United FC

Will ya look at that? Newfield finally lost a match. And to Springs, no less. The Aquae Sulis club had been struggling so far, sitting on just five points from eight matches. But Keith Matheson and Toby Parker found the back of the net in the first half to put Newfield on their heels. They couldn't break through for a third goal, but their own back line held strong to pull the upset. Meanwhile, Archbishop and Bridgewall draw in an important game for both of them. Archbishop would have liked to have had a win against a Bridgewall team resting a couple of starters due to all the IFCF play, but alas. They're still one point up on Newfield for first, though.

Portus get back on the good foot, blasting Lumberjacks four-nil and really looking like a complete team for the first time all season. Aaron Stevenson had two goals and Levi Goodman had a pair of assists in the win. Heartwood and Olympique play to an unsatisfying draw in Eboracum. It's just their third home game in eight matches, and they're 1-1-1. St. Martin find it's not so tough to deal with the revamped Castellum attack, and Mirutan Tartaguthen distinguishes himself with several nice plays. Still, it wouldn't have been nearly as nice without Bruno Kirchner's 77th minute winner. Labrador win their second straight, taking down a Vinovium club that's conceding at a two per game clip and not looking like candidates to be safe from relegation.

IFCF Challengers' Cup Qualifying Round, First Leg

Bridgewall City FC 1-1 De Commons (TSA)

Bridgewall have now played as many games in IFCF play as they have in the NAFL, and some are starting to question Berry's practice of playing his starters in every IFCF match. Won't they pick up a lot of miles on their legs and fade down the stretch? To that, Berry usually replies that they're on the verge of the group stage, a plateau that very few, if any, Nova Anglican teams have reached. He will not give up this opportunity. Before another crowd of 25,000, The Sarian's De Commons come to town and play the home team to a draw. Eli Couture knocks home another one against his fellow nationals, but De Commons find an equalizer to escape Pons Aelius with a draw. Bridgewall will have to find a way to win in a hostile environment. A trip to a big stage is on the line.

MATCHDAY 10
Bridgewall City FC 1-1 Springs FC
Olympique Sept-Iles 1-1 Newfield FC
Castellum FC 1-1 Archbishop FC
FC Portus 0-0 Heartwood FC
Labrador United FC 1-0 Lumberjacks FC
Sporting Vinovium 2-2 Sanctuary FC

It's a week for top teams to drop points, as three of the top four teams go on the road and all come away with only draws. Newfield can't break down the defense now led by Kelssek's Antoine Boucher, while Castellum show they've still got a backbone by holding off Archbishop. Bridgewall find that Springs' back line wasn't quite as bad as they'd heard, while Sanctuary are kicking themselves in Vinovium. They hit the woodwork twice, and sprayed countless attempts over the crossbar. It's a missed opportunity for them. Portus and Heartwood continue the draw parade, playing to a scoreless one in Newfoundland. Portus remain winless at home, and the fans remain disappointed with manager Patrick Warren. Labrador are the only club to win a match, taking down Lumberjacks in a game that sees a lot of action in the first fifteen minutes, with a goal and a couple of nice saves by Labrador keeper Geoff Thompson, and not much for the final seventy-five.

IFCF Challengers' Cup Playoff Round, Second Leg

De Commons (TSA) 1-0 Bridgewall City (2-1 aggregate)

Bridgewall's IFCF dreams come to a crashing, disappointing, lungs and eyes-burning halt in The Sarian. De Commons find a goal inside of 30 minutes and proceed to stymie, stifle, and throttle any chance Bridgewall have at an equalizer. After more than 90 minutes, Bridgewall salute their fans, the home fans, and the other team and walk off, not a few in tears. This was a big chance and they wanted it so bad. The Sarian has been the bogey nation of Nova Anglicana in this IFCF cycle, with De Commons sending Bridgewall home, BSC Kroningdam defeating Olympique, and Zilverstraat knocking out Castellum in the Vilitan Cove Invitational. Bridgewall and the rest of the NAFL will try their best to get back, and maybe they'll send a team to the group stage next year.

MATCHDAY 11
Springs FC 1-4 Olympique Sept-Iles
Bridgewall City FC 1-0 Castellum FC
Newfield FC 3-0 FC Portus
Heartwood FC 3-1 Labrador United FC
FC St. Martin 3-2 Sporting Vinovium
Lumberjacks FC 1-1 Sanctuary FC

Newfield regains first place by cleaning Portus' clock in Noviomagus. They dominate every facet of the game and Portus manager Warren says, "We just didn't have it today. Frankly, I'm surprised it was only three-nil, given the difference in how the two sides played." Olympique rout Springs in a dismal home match for the Aquae Sulis side, with goals like clockwork on 21, 41, 62, and 83 minutes. Nine points from ten games is about the pace 10th-place St. Martin played at last year, so Springs are in danger of going backwards, not forwards. Heartwood breeze past Labrador, snapping their three-game winning streak behind Danny Coleman and Andy Walker's attack. Bridgewall take down Castellum in a 1-0 match, as both sides play like they haven't revamped their offensive hardware and are still in their traditional defensive mode. Sanctuary drop two more points on the road; they won their first two road matches, but are 0-3-1 in their last four. The young team is still growing and still learning how to play in front of hostile fans. Finally, St. Martin and Vinovium play a back-and-forth game that sees Vinovium rally from 1-0 down to take the lead before St. Martin answer back with two goals of their own to claim just their second win of the season. In a matchup of two teams that desperately need wins, it's the Horsemen who are the lucky ones.

MATCHDAY 12
Castellum FC 2-0 Springs FC
FC Portus 0-2 Olympique Sept-Iles
Labrador United FC 1-0 Newfield FC
Sporting Vinovium 1-2 Archbishop FC
Sanctuary FC 0-0 Heartwood FC
Lumberjacks FC 1-2 FC St. Martin

Labrador are definitely playing above their heads right now, dealing Newfield a 1-0 defeat on the eve of the end of the first half. Allen Cole scores again for Labrador, his fifth of the season. Newfield's loss and Archbishop's defeat of Vinovium mean that the capital club are once again a point up in the chase for first. Rnan Black and Alain Veddicho both find the net in this one, one in the 37th and the other in the 56th, as Castellum pounce on a Springs team still reeling from their thrashing last week against Olympique. Sept-Iles blank Portus on the road, with Portus again looking torn between attack and defense. They have simply not played up to their potential this season so far. Sanctuary drop two points at home to Heartwood, something they can ill afford given the scrum between them, Bridgewall, and Labrador for the other IFCF places. Lastly, St. Martin win their third consecutive game, denying Garrett Burke a tying goal on a beautiful save by Justin Crawford in added time. Sure, it's been Castellum, Vinovium, and Lumberjacks, but wins are wins in the chase to stay up.

MATCHDAY 13
Springs FC 2-2 FC Portus
Olympique Sept-Iles 3-0 Labrador United FC
Bridgewall City FC 1-1 Sporting Vinovium
Newfield FC 5-0 Sanctuary FC
Archbishop FC 5-2 Lumberjacks FC
Heartwood FC 0-4 FC St. Martin

On the final day before the first half break, four of six games are decided by at least three goals. Newfield hand Sanctuary a humiliating 5-0 loss in Noviomagus. After the game, manager Jeff Cross chalked it up to poor play: "We've no-one to blame but ourselves. No red cards, no injuries. We were just well and truly beaten today by a better club." St. Martin lay the wood to Heartwood in Eboracum, putting three goals past Johnny Hodges in the first 25 minutes, stunning the crowd and rendering Heartwood mostly catatonic for the rest of the match. They're on a hot streak all right, but can they continue it in the second half?

Archbishop, despite Garrett Burke's drive to prove he deserves a big contract (2 more goals), simply cannot be stopped. Gu Zhalei has a goal and two assists in this one, while Freddy Beal, Dave Sorensen, Sean Reed, and even Everett Sessions get in on the action. They go out on a high note, still holding on to that one-point lead. In a matchup of sides that can't believe their good fortune so far, Olympique blast Labrador, breaking through a defense that had been fairly solid until now. The question for both clubs is, can they sustain their first-half success? Lastly, Bridgewall and Vinovium play to an uninspired draw, while the West Newfoundland Derby ends in a draw as well, though Portus wish it hadn't, as they blow a two-goal lead.

Sovereign Division Standings

Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Archbishop FC          12    8   3   1    31   14  +17    27 IFCF CL zone
 2 Newfield FC            12    8   2   2    28    9  +19    26 IFCF CC zone
 3 Bridgewall City FC     12    5   5   2    16   12   +4    20 IFCF CC zone
 4 Sanctuary FC           12    5   4   3    16   15   +1    19 IFCF CC zone
 5 Labrador United FC     12    6   1   5    13   15   −2    19 CEdC zone
 6 Olympique Sept-Iles    12    5   3   4    21   19   +2    18
 7 Heartwood FC           12    4   3   5    13   18   −5    15
 8 FC St. Martin          12    4   3   5    21   29   −8    15
 9 Lumberjacks FC         12    3   4   5    19   21   −2    13
10 FC Portus              12    3   3   6    16   19   −3    12
11 Castellum FC           12    2   4   6     9   14   −5    10
12 Springs FC             12    2   4   6    13   19   −6    10
13 Sporting Vinovium      12    2   3   7    12   24  −12     9 relegation zone

In the new world of foreign player signings and IFCF competition, the top four at the halfway mark shouldn't be a surprise. Archbishop and Newfield lead, while Bridgewall and Sanctuary are third and fourth, respectively. What's surprising is that two teams who nobody would have predicted to sniff the top half of the league, Labrador and Olympique Sept-Iles, occupy the fifth and sixth places, just barely outside of IFCF qualification. As for who's going to win the league, it sure looks like a two-horse race, with Archbishop and Newfield seven and six points, respectively, ahead of their nearest competitors. Gu Zhalei appears to be doing the job for Archbishop, as their offense exceeds 2.5 goals/game, while Farooq Nawfal is disrupting opponents' attacks and limiting Newfield's goals allowed to just 0.75/game. There's room for Bridgewall's three-headed monster in attack to threaten, or Sanctuary's young club to make a run, but for now, it's the traditional top two holding everyone else at arms' length. Labrador are playing decent defense, while scoring just enough, and Olympique are doing the opposite. One has to think they'll fall back to earth at some point, but fans of both clubs are ecstatic at the moment.

Outside the top six, Heartwood are frustrated, St. Martin are satisfied, and Lumberjacks are okay, while Portus, Castellum, and Springs are fuming and Vinovium are just hoping they can turn things around in the second half. Heartwood were supposed to improve on both ends with Holsen and Caulker, but they've taken a step backwards in both categories, especially on offense, where they are averaging just a hairsbreadth more than a goal a game, not a desirable result. St. Martin and Lumberjacks, despite being distinctively on the outside looking in as far as IFCF play, are both calmly clear of relegation for the moment and thankful to be ahead of established clubs. Portus thought they might take a step forward into IFCF competition with the signing of promising prospect Agostino Montargis from the Askari Union, and Adam Monday from Xanneria, but they've been maddeningly inconsistent. They have a win over Sanctuary, and played Archbishop and Bridgewall close, but they've lost to Vinovium, Labrador, and Sept-Iles, teams that they would never lose to in a typical season. Meanwhile, Castellum's vaunted foreign signings of Veddicho and Black have produced five goals between them in league play, and the team only have nine goals overall. In a normal season, that's about even par, but they made a push and spent money to improve the offense. They have four one-goal losses and desperately need to turn things around. Springs signed two burly Brenecians to bolster their defense, but losses of 3-1 to Labrador and 4-1 to Olympique haunt them and they're dangerously far down the table. At least they have that win over Newfield to hang their hat on. Finally, Vinovium's signings of veterans Forrest and Franken to help them avoid relegation haven't exactly panned out yet. Two goals a game allowed is worrying, and although Franken has scored five, he can't carry the offense alone.

There's still a lot of time to play yet, but slots 5-13 of the NAFL look likely to have a lot of drama over the second half.

Yeoman Division Standings

Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Shepherds FC           12    6   3   3    20   12   +8    21 promotion zone, LBCT zone
 2 FC Gránde Vitesse      12    5   5   2    24   14  +10    20 LBCT zone
 3 Artisans FC            12    6   2   4    22   12  +10    20 LBCT zone
 4 Comrades FC            12    5   5   2    12    8   +4    20
 5 Homesteaders FC        12    5   4   3    13    9   +4    19
 6 FC Mineurs             12    4   6   2    13    9   +4    18
 7 Fishermans FC          12    4   5   3    15   14   +1    17
 8 Isca Town FC           12    5   1   6    20   18   +2    16
 9 Londinium County FC    12    4   4   4    23   25   −2    16
10 Maritimes FC           12    2   7   3    12   16   −4    13
11 First Nations FC       12    3   2   7    22   33  −11    11
12 Bay Roberts            12    1   6   5     6   18  −12     9
13 FC Acadia              12    2   2   8     7   21  −14     8 relegation zone

If you had to pick which teams you thought were most likely to be promoted, you probably would have gone with County, just down from the Sovereign Division, or Isca Town, gunning to return after a few lean years in the Yeoman Division. You probably would not have guessed Shepherds. Yes, the rural club from Kings County is sitting on top, having won six, drawn three, and lost three for a total of twenty-one points. Despite a draw with lowly Bay Roberts, they've drawn County, defeated Isca Town, drawn Grande Vitesse, and defeated Artisans, going 2-2-0 against the two clubs thought to be best and their two closest competitors in the standings. Still, they were in LBCT places halfway through last time and ended up in fifth, so no guarantees. Grande Vitesse and Artisans currently have the LBCT places right now, but Comrades are tied with them and losing out only on goal differential. Homesteaders, Mineurs, and Fishermans are only three points out as well, with Isca Town and County lurking four points behind. It looks like there will be stiff competition for those three IFCF spots, and potentially for the promotion place as well.

In the bottom end of the division, Maritimes are the best of a bad bunch, surviving off of 7(!) draws so far, more than half their games. First Nations have somehow contrived to let in 33 goals so far, 2.75 per game. 7 of those came in a defeat to Artisans, 5 in a thumping by Grande Vitesse, and 5 more to a typically anemic Fishermans attack in an excruciating 5-4 loss. So half their goals have come in just three matches, for a more respectable, but not great 1.8 average in the other nine games. David Gleason has some wiggle room thanks to the NA Cup quarterfinal run he made, but fans can be notoriously fickle and play needs to improve in the second half. Meanwhile, Bay Roberts has absorbed defeats of 5-1 to First Nations and 4-0 to County, but otherwise has held their own, despite scoring just six goals. Two of them came in a surprise upset of Grande Vitesse, a big factor in them not being in last at the moment. Finally, FC Acadia are scoring at their typical low rate, but their third-worst goals allowed is sinking them right now. They've lost 5-1 to Shepherds, and 3-0 on multiple occasions. Third Division teams have stayed up before, and Acadia's poor play is making that a possibility for Bay Roberts right now.

IFCF LBCT Results

IFCF LBCT First Preliminary Round
Comrades FC 1-1 Kirston Union (SCT)
Kirston Union (SCT) 2-0 Comrades FC (3-1 aggregate)

Isca Town 0-0 Brecorn City (LGL)
Brecorn City (LGL) 1-2 Isca Town (1-2 aggregate)

IFCF LBCT Second Preliminary Round

North Spire HC (CRY) 0-0 Isca Town
Isca Town 1-2 North Spire HC (CRY)

Comrades, after advancing past Athletic Club Rumiatzi, draws a tough opponent in Schottia's Kirston Union. Schottian teams are well-known for their success on the multiversal stage, and although the salt-of-the-earth club manages to hold them to a 1-1 draw at home, the return leg sees them concede twice in the first half and be unable to make up the deficit, ending their run. Still, two extra home games and two rounds' worth of prize money are nothing to be sneezed at and will help the club.

Meanwhile, Isca Town gets Legalese's Brecorn City, a club that won their division of the National Soccer League, then battled to the playoff final before losing in the two-legged affair. A tough club to be sure. They play to a scoreless draw in Isca, disappointing the more than 13,000 fans who packed the house for the return to IFCF play. However, conceding no away goals puts Isca Town in a good position. Sait Behruz shows up in the second leg in Legalese, getting two assists as the Nova Anglican club not only scores an away goal, but wins the match 2-1 to advance.

In the second preliminary round, Isca Town gets Crystal Empire's North Spire HC. Though they finished 8th in their multi-associational league, their league strength is on display in this matchup. A nil-nil draw in Crystal Empire sees Isca Town having to play frantically to avoid a loss, then disappoint the home fans once again in front of a near-sellout, losing 2-1 to bow out of the competition. At least the fans will have a story to tell their grandchildren about seeing their favorite team lose to a bunch of ponies.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Wed Sep 30, 2020 7:55 pm

NAFL Season 16: Part 2

After 13 games, there were four usual suspects in the top four spots, but the rest of the league was a bit wonky. Can Olympique and Labrador keep it up? Will Portus bounce back? And who's ticketed for relegation?

MATCHDAY 14
Labrador United FC 0-1 FC Portus
Sporting Vinovium 0-1 Castellum FC
Sanctuary FC 1-0 Olympique Sept-Iles
Lumberjacks FC 0-1 Bridgewall City FC
FC St. Martin 3-4 Newfield FC
Heartwood FC 7-1 Archbishop FC

Goodness, gracious, great balls of fire! Did you see the smackdown Heartwood laid on Archbishop in Eboracum? The Eboracum-Londinium rivalry that we see in other sports isn't nearly as pronounced between Heartwood and Archbishop, but this one is going to sting for a while and could rekindle a rivalry between these two teams. Ross Howard had his first career hat trick, scoring in the 6th, 19th, and 61st minutes as the Longbow Club fired home five goals in the first half. Not the way to start the second half for Archbishop.

That loss and Newfield's scintillating 4-3 road win over St. Martin, courtesy of an 87th minute winner by Darren Williams, put Newfield back on top of the league. Bridgewall and Sanctuary keep pace, earning closer-than-they'd-like wins over Lumberjacks and Olympique, respectively. They're both eager to show that their offseason acquisitions mean they won't fall off the pace, and can even close the gap between them and the top two. Portus and Castellum rebound to start the second half, with Portus scraping by Labrador thanks to an own goal from centre back Jack Cunningham, and Castellum's Rnan Black scoring his fourth of the year in a gritty game in Vinovium. Black cleared out some space for himself after being handled roughly all game by Vinovium's back line, and blasted one home against Andy Adams for the winner.

MATCHDAY 15
Springs FC 2-0 Labrador United FC
FC Portus 1-2 Sanctuary FC
Castellum FC 1-1 Lumberjacks FC
Olympique Sept-Iles 0-1 FC St. Martin
Bridgewall City FC 3-0 Heartwood FC
Newfield FC 2-2 Archbishop FC

A clash of titans between Newfield and Archbishop, the top two teams currently, ends inconclusively, which is good news for Newfield, since they stay on top. But it might have been better for them were it not for Gu Zhalei bending one home in the 77th minute to tie the score for Archbishop. Heartwood might have experienced a bit of an emotional letdown after their thrashing of Archbishop, as Bridgewall thump them in Pons Aelius, with Couture, Palomer, and Ahrens the goal-scorers. Sanctuary match that by traveling to Portus Abonae and coming away with a 2-1 victory, courtesy of a late goal from Zarles Biktorika. Jeff Cross is already referring to him as "our secret weapon off the bench", and it looks like the youngster has a bright future. Elsewhere, Springs send Labrador to their second loss of the second half; perhaps the magic is draining out of Labrador's strong play so far? St. Martin win narrowly over Olympique, in a game that a lot of individuals lost money on by taking the over on the 3.5 goals line. They've now won four of their last five games and are one point out of fifth place. Castellum draw Lumberjacks as Black and Garrett Burke trade goals; both are languishing down in the standings.

MATCHDAY 16
Sporting Vinovium 0-3 Springs FC
Sanctuary FC 2-1 Labrador United FC
FC St. Martin 0-2 FC Portus
Heartwood FC 2-0 Castellum FC
Archbishop FC 1-1 Olympique Sept-Iles
Newfield FC 2-0 Bridgewall City FC

Newfield are starting to pull away here, as they make Bridgewall look like just another team in Noviomagus. Farooq Nawfal does an excellent job of disrupting Buddy Ahrens' rhythm, and Schlok, Palomer, and Couture just aren't the same without him causing havoc alongside them. Archbishop drop two points at home to Olympique, with Pierre Lefebvre scoring in the 81st minute to rob the capital club of their expected home win. They're now four back of Newfield, and just one up on Sanctuary, who get a goal from Algar Cason and one from Nestor Picard in the first half, then hang on against Allen Cole and Labrador, who have now lost three in a row to start the second half. Portus, Heartwood, and Springs all get multi-goal wins, with Springs dismantling hapless Vinovium, Portus putting a stop to St. Martin's hot streak, and Heartwood taking advantage of Castellum's struggles.

MATCHDAY 17
Springs FC 1-6 Sanctuary FC
Sporting Vinovium 1-1 Lumberjacks FC
Labrador United FC 2-0 FC St. Martin
FC Portus 1-1 Archbishop FC
Castellum FC 1-0 Newfield FC
Olympique Sept-Iles 2-1 Bridgewall City FC

In the race for the championship, Newfield take a tumble in Mancunium, letting veteran Alain Veddicho outfox Farooq Nawfal and score the only goal of the game. Unfortunately, Archbishop fail to take advantage, needing a late goal from Damian Hillman to pull back a draw in Portus Abonae. They inch closer, but missing out on the win hurts. Sanctuary, on the other hand, absolutely destroy Springs in Aquae Sulis, getting six goals, including two each from the lads up front, Algar Cason and Zachary Harrell. They've won four straight to start the second half and now sit just one back of Newfield for the league lead. Bridgewall stumble in Sept-Iles, and Labrador put a stop to St. Martin's winning streak, while Lumberjacks and Vinovium play to an unsatisfying draw in their derby.

MATCHDAY 18
Lumberjacks FC 1-1 Springs FC
FC St. Martin 0-3 Sanctuary FC
Heartwood FC 0-2 Sporting Vinovium
Archbishop FC 1-1 Labrador United FC
Bridgewall City FC 0-0 FC Portus
Olympique Sept-Iles 0-2 Castellum FC

Make it five in a row for Sanctuary, as they cruise past St. Martin in DC, and take the lead over an idle Newfield! Sammy Westmoreland and Colby Parker team up to score two goals in the first 20 minutes, and the Horsemen never recover. Once again, Archbishop stumble their way to a draw, this time against a Labrador team that are playing above their heads for sure. This time, it's Labrador's Brady Sutton who scores late, robbing Archbishop of the win. The capital club had opportunities to stretch the lead, but squandered them. Elsewhere, Bridgewall and Portus, who have both loosened up the strategy and gotten more attacking, play a classic Portus-Bridgewall nil-nil draw. Portus have only lost one of their last six matches, and are slowly climbing back up the table. Vinovium upset Heartwood in a severe blow to the Eboracum side's chances for IFCF qualification. The way Vinovium have been playing, giving up three or even one point to them is a serious misstep. Castellum get back into it, getting a brace from Rnan Black against Olympique's less than stellar defense. That's two wins in a row for them; could they be building some momentum? Springs and Lumberjacks draw in a matchup of teams hanging around the bottom of the table.

MATCHDAY 19
Springs FC 2-3 FC St. Martin
Lumberjacks FC 0-2 Heartwood FC
Sanctuary FC 3-1 Archbishop FC
Sporting Vinovium 1-2 Newfield FC
Labrador United FC 0-2 Bridgewall City FC
FC Portus 1-0 Castellum FC

Sanctuary make it six in a row, this time manhandling an Archbishop side that look completely out of sorts. They started the second half with a 7-1 thrashing from Heartwood, and haven't been the same since, for an 0-4-2 second half record, falling completely behind Newfield and Sanctuary for the title race. Meanwhile, Newfield escape Vinovium with a win thanks to an 88th minute Darren Williams goal, and Bridgewall leave Mancunium with a win following goals from Eli Couture and Drarinka Schlok. Portus continue their run of good play, edging out Castellum at home, though they would have liked to have had a second goal, seeing multiple shots hit the woodwork. Heartwood down Lumberjacks, avoiding the axe and getting goals from Ross Howard and Reis Caulker. Unfortunately, veteran Audioslavian defensive mid Storm Holsen left the game with what the team are describing as a "lower body injury". He might be out or limited for some time, given his age. Finally, St. Martin get back on the horse with a 3-2 win over Springs in which they rallied from a 2-1 deficit behind goals from Colton Bagley and Dylan Stanfield, younger players who could play a big role in weeks to come.

MATCHDAY 20
Heartwood FC 0-1 Springs FC
Archbishop FC 4-0 FC St. Martin
Newfield FC 1-2 Lumberjacks FC
Bridgewall City FC 1-0 Sanctuary FC
Olympique Sept-Iles 2-1 Sporting Vinovium
Castellum FC 0-1 Labrador United FC

The top two teams take a tumble this week, with Newfield losing to Lumberjacks (in Noviomagus, no less), while Bridgewall knock off Sanctuary. Garrett Burke had a 4th minute goal to put Lumberjacks on top, and after Ced Hampton countered with a goal of his own in the 37th, wingback Noah Brady scored in the 73rd minute to provide the final margin. Meanwhile, Eli Couture had the only Bridgewall goal against Sanctuary, fighting off Michel Poirier to create some space and find the back of the net, bringing the near-capacity crowd to its feet. Taking advantage of those losses are Archbishop, who bring themselves to life (they very much can wake up) in a 4-0 rout of St. Martin in Kelly Park. It wasn't a sellout, given Archbishop's struggles, but you'd better believe that all 24,000 Archbishop partisans are screaming in jubilation as Gu Zhalei, Freddy Beal, Dave Sorensen, and Micah Galbraith find the net. Talk about catharsis. Heartwood succumb to Springs without Storm Holsen, though one goal against a typically aggressive Springs side isn't bad. Labrador win the Mancunium Derby's second leg, shutting out Castellum in front of the Soldier's Club home fans. Finally, Olympique slip by Sporting in a game not many pay attention to outside of Quebec.

MATCHDAY 21
Springs FC 2-0 Archbishop FC
Heartwood FC 1-1 Newfield FC
FC St. Martin 0-2 Bridgewall City FC
Lumberjacks FC 1-0 Olympique Sept-Iles
Sanctuary FC 1-1 Castellum FC
Sporting Vinovium 0-1 FC Portus

More gridlock at the top, as Newfield and Heartwood tangle and come away with a draw, while Sanctuary and Castellum do the same thing. Springs find some life, winning their second straight as Archbishop come to town and revert to their dreadful form. They now have one win in eight second-half games. Taking advantage of all this is Bridgewall, who travel to DC and come away with a business-casual 2-0 win over St. Martin. With five matchdays left in the second half, Sanctuary are on 38, Newfield are on 37, Bridgewall are on 36, and Archbishop are sitting back at 34. It's a close race. In other games, Portus send Vinovium to another close loss while Lumberjacks topple Sept-Iles.

MATCHDAY 22
Newfield FC 0-0 Springs FC
Bridgewall City FC 0-1 Archbishop FC
Olympique Sept-Iles 2-2 Heartwood FC
Castellum FC 0-2 FC St. Martin
FC Portus 3-1 Lumberjacks FC
Labrador United FC 1-0 Sporting Vinovium

As Sanctuary take a break this week, Newfield pull even by drawing with Springs. A road draw with Newfield, especially a Newfield team in a title race, is a win in Springs' book. Cobalt Layman and Harris Foolscap earn their keep in this one, roughing up Newfield's attackers and keeping them off balance. The third and fourth-place teams, Archbishop and Bridgewall, tangle this week, and Archbishop out-defenses Bridgewall, limiting Eli Couture and somehow putting a lid on the 7'1 Schlok. It's Everett Sessions who scores the surprising 68th minute goal to win it for Archbishop. The four teams are now separated by just one point.

Portus are hard-charging, winning their fifth of the second half and climbing up to almost 30 points after cruising by Lumberjacks. St. Martin topple Castellum, as the Horsemen gore the Soldiers in Mancunium. Labrador send Vinovium to their fourth straight loss, all by one goal. Sept-Iles and Heartwood draw in Quebec, putting the Eboracum club well and truly out of it. Even four wins in four games would require losses by practically all the teams ahead of them for them to sniff an IFCF place. Disappointing season for a club that thought it had a real shot.

MATCHDAY 23
Springs FC 1-1 Bridgewall City FC
Newfield FC 4-1 Olympique Sept-Iles
Archbishop FC 2-2 Castellum FC
Heartwood FC 1-1 FC Portus
Lumberjacks FC 0-1 Labrador United FC
Sanctuary FC 2-0 Sporting Vinovium

Newfield and Sanctuary, the two leaders, keep pace with each other. Newfield does it in style, routing Olympique 4-1 at home, while Sanctuary make sure Sporting find themselves on the wrong end of the scoreboard for the fifth straight time. The two teams behind them, Archbishop and Bridgewall, drop points to teams they frankly shouldn't have. Rnan Black came up with a brace in Londinium to deny Archbishop a win, while Springs' back line holds up against Bridgewall's determined attack. With three matchdays to go, Sanctuary and Newfield are knotted at 41, with Archbishop and Bridgewall theoretically still alive at 38 and 37 points, respectively. But if you're a betting type, it's Sanctuary or Newfield. Heartwood put a stop to Portus' run of good play, but they can still only manage a draw. It's a bigger blow to Portus, who are still harboring thoughts of a second straight CEdC appearance. With their win over Lumberjacks, Labrador find themselves in a surprising fifth place. Of course, they've no chance at an IFCF spot, but fifth with three matches to go is higher than they've been in quite some time.

MATCHDAY 24
Olympique Sept-Iles 0-1 Springs FC
Castellum FC 0-1 Bridgewall City FC
FC Portus 1-0 Newfield FC
Labrador United FC 2-2 Heartwood FC
Sporting Vinovium 1-3 FC St. Martin
Sanctuary FC 1-2 Lumberjacks FC

Stop the presses! With Archbishop idle, Bridgewall have forced themselves into the championship conversation. A 65th minute goal by Josep Palomer gets them over the hump against Castellum and onto 40 points. Why is that so significant? Well, because a hot Portus team scored early against Newfield and then turtled to protect the lead, and Sanctuary dropped a heartbreaker to Lumberjacks at home. An own goal and a goal by Garrett Burke put Sanctuary behind 2-0 going into the half. They spent the entire second half pressing, pressing, and ratcheting their and their fans' anxiety levels up. With a win, they could leapfrog Newfield. But despite Zarles Biktorika's 85th minute effort, it wasn't enough and the young team succumbed to their mistakes. Despite their losses, they're still on top, but another misstep could cost them. Bridgewall are lurking one point back and even Archbishop still have a theoretical shot at the title. Meanwhile, St. Martin cruises past Vinovium, who are now well into the "lost season" phase, losing their sixth in a row. Labrador and Heartwood draw, while Springs edge by Olympique in a game you'd expect to have more goals.

MATCHDAY 25
Springs FC 0-1 Castellum FC
Olympique Sept-Iles 1-1 FC Portus
Newfield FC 2-0 Labrador United FC
Archbishop FC 3-0 Sporting Vinovium
Heartwood FC 1-2 Sanctuary FC
FC St. Martin 6-2 Lumberjacks FC

With two matches to go, it's Bridgewall's bad luck to stand idle, as Newfield, Sanctuary, and Archbishop all win, thus eliminating the Pons Aelius side from title contention and putting them one back for third place. Newfield make it look easy at home against Labrador, while Archbishop claim just their third win in the second half over hapless Vinovium. It was a tight game for most of the way in Eboracum, but Ander Barth found a way to sneak a through ball to Zachary Harrell in the 79th minute, and Harrell slotted it home past Johnny Hodges, giving Sanctuary the win. Newfield and Sanctuary are tied on 44 going into the final matchday, quite the way to end the season. Newfield are looking for their first title in three years, something they think is their birthright, while Sanctuary just want their first title ever.

Elsewhere, Portus' draw combined with Labrador's loss put Portus just over them for fifth place, while Castellum defeat Springs behind Alain Veddicho's goal. Not much to cheer about on that side of Mancunium, as Castellum end their season on a dismal 25 points. St. Martin thump Lumberjacks, going up five-nil in the first half behind some truly horrible defending from the Vinovium side and good work by veteran striker Hal Sawyer. Garrett Burke's two second-half goals are just meaningless stat-padding in this rout, though it'll help him to get a fatter paycheck next season.

Sovereign Division Standings

Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Newfield FC            23   13   5   5    46   21  +25    44 champions zone
 2 Sanctuary FC           23   13   5   5    39   24  +15    44 IFCF zone
 3 Archbishop FC          23   11   8   4    48   33  +15    41 IFCF
 4 Bridgewall City FC     23   11   7   5    28   18  +10    40 IFCF
 5 FC Portus              23    9   7   7    29   25   +4    34 CEdC zone
 6 Labrador United FC     23   10   3  10    22   27   −5    33
 7 FC St. Martin          23    9   3  11    39   51  −12    30
 8 Heartwood FC           23    7   7   9    31   33   −2    28
 9 Springs FC             23    7   7   9    27   31   −4    28
10 Olympique Sept-Iles    23    7   6  10    30   35   −5    27
11 Castellum FC           24    6   7  11    18   25   −7    25
12 Lumberjacks FC         23    6   7  10    30   39   −9    25
13 Sporting Vinovium      23    3   4  16    18   43  −25    13 relegated

Going into the final matchday, what's at stake? Sanctuary and Newfield are tied atop the standings, both hoping to win the league and clinch that Champions' League spot. For Newfield, it's nothing new, as they've won the league many times before. For Sanctuary, it's the closest they've ever come to a league championship. You want to know the best part? They're going to head to head for a winner-take-all game in Rutupiae this weekend! Newfield won the first leg handily, 5-0, in Noviomagus, so if they can hold Sanctuary to a draw, they'll be the victors. Sanctuary are looking for a win in front of the home fans to seal the deal. What a job by Jeff Cross and his young team to put themselves in this position, but can they rise to the occasion?

Archbishop sit only three points back and theoretically would have a shot at the title if both teams ahead of them, which is, unfortunately, impossible. But they are safely in Challengers' Cup play, so they can play subs if they like against Lumberjacks. Bridgewall are also in the Challengers' Cup, and will face already-relegated Vinovium, so they could take it easy, or they could play all-out and try to leapfrog Archbishop so they don't have to start in the first IFCF round. They played a lot of interassociational games this year, which definitely could have worn on them, so any advantage next year could be crucial. Meanwhile, the story of the second half (Sanctuary aside) has to be Portus, who have won 10 of 11 games in the second half to go all the way from 10th to 5th. It's not the season they'd hoped for, but they have conceded just six times as Agostino Montargis and others have steadied the back line and stiffened Portus' resistance to opposing attacks. Hot on their heels for a potential CEdC spot are Labrador United, who, despite their -5 goal differential, have somehow scrapped their way to an even record, 10-3-10. If Jeff Cross isn't the Manager of the Year for the job Sanctuary's done, then Ed Carson has to be, for taking a team that lost its best attacking player and finished 9th last year to the cusp of CEdC play. Also in the somewhat surprising category are the Horsemen of St. Martin. Despite conceding more goals than they did last year (with a game to play), they have scored nearly 80% more goals this year, which has kept them in a lot of matches. They go into the final day of the season on a three-game winning streak, poised to finish their highest since finishing 6th in season 9 (despite a goal differential second-worst in the league).

On the disappointing end of the spectrum are Heartwood, who despite adding Izotz Zubia veteran Storm Holsen and dauntless Nepharan winger Reis Caulker, are currently 11 points behind their total from last season, with a matchup against a hot St. Martin team that flattened them last time out. Just another classic bungle from Heartwood. Springs are also on the downswing, as their signings of burly Brenecians Foolscap and Layman failed to reduce their goals allowed, with the potential even for allowing more than last season. But you'd better blame the attack more than the D. Springs are sitting on eight fewer goals than last year. It's been a tough half-dozen years for Springs fans. Their best finish has been a distant fifth, and they've lost to Third Division sides as well as perennial also-ran First Nations in the NA Cup. Olympique did not keep up their surprising performance in the second half, tumbling from 6th to 10th. It's the offense's fault, coming up with just 9 goals in 11 games, not a pace Olympique can compete at. This includes a rough four shutouts.

If Jeff Cross and Ed Carson are candidates for Manager of the Year, then Castellum head man Carlton Holland is a contender with Vinovium's Noël Godard for Worst Manager of the Year. Castellum's owner is not one for mid-season changes, but it's almost certain that Holland is on the chopping block. Last year, Castellum finished just five points out of IFCF play and with a -1 goal differential. Holland made the case that with good offensive players, he could steer the team into the IFCF places. Despite spending $1.3 million on transfer fees and more than that on salary, Castellum have a paltry two more goals this year than last year, with more goals allowed. Holland changed up the strategy to accommodate his new attacking players, moving Castellum away from its traditional ultra-defensive stance, but it seems to have backfired as they will finish no higher than 11th and potentially lower, should Lumberjacks come up with a point. Speaking of Lumberjacks, any season they avoid relegation is a success. Garrett Burke got his goals, having scored 12 from 23 games so far, and the team scored more, but they also conceded more. Still, the thrill for them is in the NA Cup, where they'll be looking to advance deep once again, having made at least the semifinals in three straight seasons. Finally, there's Sporting Vinovium. They had hope. They signed two veteran players, hoping to stay up and consign Vinovium rivals Lumberjacks, Labrador, Olympique, or even St. Martin to relegation, but they flopped. Hard. They picked up just four points in the second half and six goals. Now, Franken's nagging injuries surely had something to do with it, but you can't blame him for being an aging player or blame him alone for their failure to score. They've lost seven in a row, and Bridgewall don't look like to roll over for them. It's going to be a tough year in the Yeoman Division next year, as fan attendance has dropped precipitously for this very much last-place club.

Yeoman Division Standings

Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 FC Gránde Vitesse      23   11   8   4    39   26  +13    41 Promotion zone
 2 Shepherds FC           23   11   7   5    36   19  +17    40 LBCT zone
 3 Artisans FC            23   10   7   6    37   24  +13    37 LBCT zone
 4 Isca Town FC           23   10   5   8    35   28   +7    35
 5 Londinium County FC    23    9   7   7    40   37   +3    34
 6 Maritimes FC           23    7  10   6    35   31   +4    31
 7 FC Mineurs             23    6  13   4    23   21   +2    31
 8 Comrades FC            23    7  10   6    26   29   −3    31
 9 Fishermans FC          23    6  11   6    24   25   −1    29
10 Homesteaders FC        24    6   9   9    21   27   −6    27
11 First Nations FC       23    6   5  12    31   47  −16    23
12 FC Acadia              23    6   4  13    14   28  −14    22
13 Bay Roberts            23    1  12  10    11   30  −19    15 relegated

On the eve of the final matchday, the promotion dogfight has come down to the wire. At the halfway point, Shepherds had the lead by one point over Grande Vitesse and Artisans. Now, Grande Vitesse are clinging to a one-point advantage over Shepherds, and Artisans have fallen off the pace, but are still very much in LBCT contention. Grande Vitesse have gone 6-3-2 in the second half, leapfrogging Shepherds' 5-4-2 and besting Artisans' 4-5-2. They will face Comrades, who defeated them last time and would like nothing more than to play spoiler to the trendy new club on the scene. But Shepherds have a more difficult matchup against Isca Town, who, now resigned to a fourth straight year in the Yeoman Division, have not just a spoiler role to play, but a potential LBCT spot to claim. Should Artisans falter against Fishermans, and Isca Town defeat Shepherds, Isca would be the third LBCT team, not Artisans. They deserve credit for a strong second half, propelling themselves from 8th to 4th. Also lurking and hoping against hope are County. Their 5-3-3 second half puts them on 34 points with an outside shot at LBCT play. But they need a series of dominos to fall. First, they need to defeat Acadia, a simple task considering they've already lost 13 times this year and have just 14 goals. But then they need Fishermans to defeat Artisans and Shepherds to draw or defeat Isca Town. In that scenario, County and Artisans would finish on 37 points, but County would have the head-to-head advantage and thus slip in as the 3rd IFCF team. Bit of a nice consolation prize after relegation and no promotion, but unlikely yet.

Then we have Maritimes, Mineurs, and Comrades jammed up at 31 points apiece. It's most impressive for Maritimes, who were looking at another stinker of a season at the halfway point, while Comrades and Mineurs have dropped from loftier heights, especially Comrades picking up just 11 points in the second half. Mineurs' second half have been filled with draws, seven of them to be exact. After that, there's Fishermans, who have dropped off somewhat, and look to finish lower than their 6th place finish last year. But staying up, surviving, and drawing decent crowds are the name of the game for Fishermans. Homesteaders have reverted to form after a surprisingly good first half saw them on the verge of the LBCT places. But they've come up with just eight second-half goals and one second-half win. Their season is done and they are stuck in 10th. In a normal year, that's not so bad. But the promise of the first half makes this a clear disappointment. First Nations have rebounded somewhat, corralling their defensive issues. They've allowed just fourteen goals in the second half, as opposed to thirty-three in the first half. Their offense has come up with just nine goals for, but David Gleason has made his point. Defense was killing them in the first half, and they needed to do something about it. They might finish in 11th or 12th place, but Gleason's job is safe for now. FC Acadia are safe from relegation, despite their league-leading loss total. They've only scored seven second-half goals, but they've only allowed seven as well, a massive improvement from the first half. They've tripled their win total and defeated Shepherds and Isca Town along the way, as well as drawing Grande Vitesse. It's not a season to remember, but it's not relegation either. Finally, Bay Roberts were bidding to become the second team from the Third Division to stay up for a second season (Stephenville were the other one, staying three seasons), but their luck ran out in the second half. 0-6-5 isn't the way to do things, and with Acadia coming back into form, they're well into the relegation zone. They could bid not to become the second Third Division team to finish with just one win (after Kingston Town) by defeating Maritimes, but that's all there is for hope.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Thu Oct 01, 2020 6:09 pm

NAFL Season 16: Final Day

The Sovereign Division championship and the Yeoman Division championship are up for grabs, and while relegation isn't a mystery, LBCT places are still competitive. What will happen on the last day?

MATCHDAY 26 - Sovereign Division
FC Portus 1-1 Springs FC
Labrador United FC 2-3 Olympique Sept-Iles
Sporting Vinovium 1-1 Bridgewall City FC
Sanctuary FC 1-0 Newfield FC
Lumberjacks FC 0-0 Archbishop FC
FC St. Martin 0-2 Heartwood FC

First Half

With the league championship on the line, the game kicks off in Rutupiae. Sanctuary and Newfield are mostly content to feel each other out in the first half, with the scoreline still nil-nil at the halftime break. Chalk up a point for Newfield, as a draw would make them league champions, but Jeff Cross isn't about to throw it all away on a reckless game plan. He'll bide his time.

Meanwhile, Bridgewall and Archbishop are both on the road in Vinovium. Lumberjacks and Archbishop don't play too well in the first half, as both are testing out subs, but Bridgewall take a 1-0 lead when Drarinka Schlok extends her already lengthy frame into the sky to knock one home. They will try to hold the lead in the second half.

Portus and Springs take each other on in the West Newfoundland derby, with Adam Monday blasting it by the keeper in the 27th minute to give Portus the lead, while Heartwood ambushes St. Martin with two goals in the first 25 minutes to take an early lead, one they plan to sit on.

Finally, Labrador strike first with a goal from Scott Banks on a nice volley in the 4th minute, but Etienne Richard bends one into the box for Pierre Lefebvre in the 21st minute and Alain Dubois scores fifteen minutes later to put Olympique on top heading into the half.

Second Half

Newfield thunder out of the gates in the second half, putting three shots on goal in the first six minutes. But Greg Holmes is there to make the saves, and Michel Poirier and the rest of Sanctuary's back line gang clear everything out to avoid further danger. In the 64th minute, Nestor Picard's shot deflects off of Tim Hopkins and over the crossbar, setting up a set piece for the home team. With the crowd roaring, Ander Barth's cross into the box is perfect, and Sammy Westmoreland's header is a thing of beauty. But Hopkins just gets a glove on it to deny the goal. Fortunately for Sanctuary, the ball deflects right to a hard-charging Barth, who is momentarily left alone before blasting it into the back of the net. Racing into the corner, he is mobbed by his teammates and it seems real: Sanctuary could win their first-ever title in the next half-hour. Jeff Cross doesn't fall back into the prevent defense; instead, he opts for the control style, with Picard, Westmoreland, and Barth patrolling the middle and playing keep-away. They frustrate the Newfield attack, which gets one last gasp, but Darren Williams blasts it over the crossbar. As the final whistle blows on three minutes of extra time, Sanctuary's young team exults in their first-ever championship, carrying Cross around on their shoulders, blasting champagne everywhere, and generally making fools of themselves while the stadium explodes with delight. This is a big moment for this team, this city, and the NAAZE.

Lumberjacks and Archbishop continue to play fairly loosely, but neither side can break through. Even as Archbishop know Bridgewall are leading in Vinovium, they don't seem too pressed to try to take the lead. Perhaps it's the fact that they know they are already in IFCF, but avoiding the extra preliminary round could be worth it. Instead, Archbishop and Lumberjacks' subs mostly play out the string and the game ends 0-0 in a result not too many fans are thrilled with. But Sporting pull Archbishop's chestnuts out of the fire, as Gäbriel Franken renders one last service to his team with a 59th minute header to tie the score. Try as they might, Bridgewall cannot find a second goal, so they'll have to settle for a draw and fourth place in the league. It might feel like a bit of a step back, but fourth place with the burden of 10 extra IFCF games is an incredible result for them.

Adam Monday's goal continues to stand until the 74th minute, when Keith Matheson finds the back of the net to tie the score in the Portus-Springs rivalry matchup. Despite a frenetic final 20 minutes, no more goals are forthcoming and the game ends 1-1. Portus need Labrador to lose or draw in order to keep the 5th spot and the CEdC spot. Meanwhile, Heartwood are good to their word and drop back into a defensive shell to preserve their 2-0 lead and end the season on an even goal differential. They didn't get close to IFCF and it was disappointing overall, but at least they got over the 30-point mark.

With Olympique leading 2-1 going into the second half, Labrador would love a comeback victory to secure interassociational play for next year. And they get an equalizer in the 57th minute, courtesy of Allen Cole. The veteran striker really has stepped up in Donald O'Donnell's absence, with ten goals this year. It's part of Labrador's most goals scored in many years. With a draw looming, it's young Luc Gagne who finds the back of the net in the 84th minute, giving Olympique the late win.

Sovereign Division Standings

Team                          P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Sanctuary FC             24  14  5   5  40  24  +16  47 Champions, IFCF CL, CEdC
  2 Newfield FC              24  13  5   6  46  22  +24  44 IFCF CC
  3 Archbishop FC            24  11  9   4  48  33  +15  42 IFCF CC
  4 Bridgewall City FC       24  11  8   5  29  19  +10  41 IFCF CC
  5 FC Portus                24   9  8   7  30  26   +4  35 CEdC (highest-placed non-IFCF team)
  6 Labrador United FC       24  10  3  11  24  30   -6  33
  7 Heartwood FC             24   8  7   9  33  33   +0  31
  8 FC St. Martin            24   9  3  12  39  53  -14  30
  9 Olympique Sept-Iles      24   8  6  10  33  37   -4  30
 10 Springs FC               24   7  8   9  28  32   -4  29
 11 Lumberjacks FC           24   6  8  10  30  39   -9  26
 12 Castellum FC             24   6  7  11  18  25   -7  25
 13 Sporting Vinovium        24   3  5  16  19  44  -25  14 relegated

Sanctuary's win gives them their first-ever league title, so it's celebration city in Rutupiae and Jeff Cross is being feted as Manager of the Year. Newfield will just have to wait for their next league title; three years is about as long as they've ever had to wait for a championship. Archbishop and Bridgewall's draws mean they're taking the IFCF spots, while Labrador squander an opportunity to nab a CEdC spot. Heartwood nips St. Martin for 7th place, Olympique finish 9th, Springs are a disappointing 10th, and Lumberjacks edge out Castellum for the 11th spot, while Vinovium's fate was sealed long ago.

MATCHDAY 26 - Yeoman Division
First Nations FC 1-0 FC Mineurs
Bay Roberts 0-2 Maritimes FC
Fishermans FC 0-0 Artisans FC
Isca Town FC 1-1 Shepherds FC
FC Gránde Vitesse 3-1 Comrades FC
FC Acadia 0-1 Londinium County FC

On the final matchday, the suspense is who will win the league? Will it be Grande Vitesse, or will it be Shepherds? Well, Isca Town are determined to play spoiler in their home stadium. They would have a shot at the LBCT places with a win, but unfortunately, they don't have it this week. Of course, neither do Shepherds. Sait Behruz picks up an assist to put Isca Town up early, but Shepherds rally in the second half to tie it. Isca Town need Artisans to lose, but the blue-collar club from Eboracum are most definitely not obliging, playing Fishermans to a draw. When they hear the match in Isca Town is headed to a draw, Artisans pull back and end the match 0-0, securing their LBCT place.

Meanwhile, Comrades would love to spoil Grande Vitesse's day, but they just don't have it in them. Rorkalau Resdanthindhen, the young Ko-orenite who worked his way into the starting lineup, picks up a goal and an assist in the first half, while Martiño Marcelin, the other young Ko-orenite Grande Vitesse signed this offseason, comes in in the second half to preserve the lead and does a great job, with some nice takedowns and disruptions. The teams exchange goals in the second half, but that's not enough and Grande Vitesse is headed to the Sovereign Division in just their fourth season!

In the other games, First Nations play Mineurs' game, a defensive struggle, but they show their mettle, with David Gleason's gameplan paying off. A deliberate, balanced, progressive attack turns into a late goal that give the Labrador club the win. With the losses of Mineurs and Comrades, Maritimes' defeat of hapless Bay Roberts puts them alone in 6th place, their highest finish since 6th in Season 12. Finally, Acadia limit County's opportunities, but it's a set piece that results in a 77th minute goal that puts County over the top and into fourth place.

Yeoman Division Standings

Team                          P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 FC Gránde Vitesse        24  12   8   4  42  27  +15  44 promoted, LBCT
  2 Shepherds FC             24  11   8   5  37  20  +17  41 LBCT
  3 Artisans FC              24  10   8   6  37  24  +13  38 LBCT
  4 Londinium County FC      24  10   7   7  41  37   +4  37
  5 Isca Town FC             24  10   6   8  36  29   +7  36
  6 Maritimes FC             24   8  10   6  37  31   +6  34
  7 Comrades FC              24   7  10   7  27  32   -5  31
  8 FC Mineurs               24   6  13   5  23  22   +1  31
  9 Fishermans FC            24   6  12   6  24  25   -1  30
 10 Homesteaders FC          24   6   9   9  21  27   -6  27
 11 First Nations FC         24   7   5  12  32  47  -15  26
 12 FC Acadia                24   6   4  14  14  29  -15  22
 13 Bay Roberts              24   1  12  11  11  32  -21  15 relegated

It's a big night for Grande Vitesse, as they will get the chance to challenge themselves in the Sovereign Division. It's a big night for the league as a whole, as both expansion teams win their respective divisions, showing the depth of the league. Shepherds was so close, and there couldn't have been a more gracious team in defeat. But missing out on their best opportunity in years has to be heartbreaking. They will console themselves with LBCT play, as will Artisans. County and Isca Town aren't happy about being this far out of promotion consideration and out of LBCT, but they will just have to do better next year. Maritimes had a good season, while Mineurs, Fishermans, and Comrades had mediocre ones. Homesteaders will be disappointed with their poor second-half performance, while Acadia are happy with their second-half performance (seeing as they were able to avoid relegation). First Nations didn't take a big step forward, but they definitely improved on defense after allowing 61 goals last year. We'll see how they do in the Cup. Finally, Bay Roberts never really stood a chance. They'll head back to the Eastern League.

Third Division

Maritime League Standings

Team                            P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Sussex Town                22  12  7   3  21  12   +9  43 promotion playoff
  2 Bathurst Athletic          22  10  7   5  36  19  +17  37
  3 Edmunston Rangers          22   9  6   7  19  17   +2  33
  4 Miramichi Caledonians      22   9  6   7  37  31   +6  33
  5 Yarmouth United            22   8  7   7  26  27   -1  31
  6 Rothesay Corinthians       22   8  6   8  19  19   +0  30
  7 Saint Stephen              22   7  7   8  18  19   -1  28
  8 Dalhousie                  22   7  7   8  29  31   -2  28
  9 Kingston Town              22   6  9   7  15  17   -2  27
 10 Riverview United           22   8  3  11  25  23   +2  27
 11 Acadia Caraquet            22   7  5  10  21  32  -11  26
 12 Spring Hill Harriers       22   3  6  13  17  36  -19  15

Eastern League Standings

Team                         P   W  D   L For  Ag +/- Pts
  1 Marystown Rovers         22  11  8   3  26  17  +9  41 promotion playoff
  2 St. Anthony              22   9  9   4  23  19  +4  36
  3 Fall River               22  10  5   7  35  35  +0  35
  4 Stellarton Rovers        22  10  4   8  30  27  +3  34
  5 AFC Truro                22  10  4   8  32  27  +5  34
  6 Glace Bay                22   8  7   7  29  27  +2  31
  7 Port Hawkesbury          22   7  7   8  22  27  -5  28
  8 Stephenville             22   7  5  10  40  44  -4  26
  9 Harbour Breton           22   8  2  12  35  39  -4  26
 10 New Glasgow Casuals      22   6  8   8  13  15  -2  26
 11 Eboracum City FC         22   6  7   9  36  36  +0  25
 12 Clarenville XI           22   5  4  13  16  24  -8  19

The two lucky teams this year are Sussex Town in the Maritime League, and Marystown Rovers from the Eastern League. Sussex Town used a suffocating defense (just 12 goals allowed) to take the crown, while Marystown Rovers faced a little unease on the final day. Leading by two, they defeated Stephenville and saw their closest rival, St. Anthony lose, making them the champions. Sussex Town, despite having finished second multiple times, have never been in the promotion playoff, while Marystown Rovers lost to Dalhousie in Season 12.

Finally, City were terrible this year. They finished 11th in the Eastern League, behind teams that have never sniffed the Yeomen Division. Yes, they had to release some of their more highly-paid veterans and sell players who refused pay cuts, and yes, they had to do a lot more traveling since they headed to Newfoundland (from Nova Scotia) for every road game, but they have been a professional club much longer and have a better and deeper talent base. Frankly, it's embarrassing.

Promotion Playoff

Sussex Town 0–1 Marystown Rovers
Marystown Rovers 0–0 Sussex Town (1-0 aggregate)

Marystown Rovers win the road leg, then hold on in the home leg to win the playoff and earn promotion to the Yeoman Division. A daunting task awaits them, but so does a decent payday. Unfortunately for City, Bay Roberts will replace Marystown Rovers in the Eastern League, meaning they stay in the Eastern League and will continue to have to make long road trips.

Reserve Division Standings

Team                                P   W   D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Sanctuary Reserves             25  17  6   2  44  19  +25  57
  2 Castellum B                    25  15  4   6  26  12  +14  49
  3 Newfield Reserves              25  12  8   5  35  21  +14  44
  4 Londinium County Reserves      25  12  7   6  35  27   +8  43
  5 Fishermans Reserves            25  13  4   8  28  22   +6  43
  6 Artisans B                     25  13  4   8  45  34  +11  43
  7 Sporting Vinovium B            25  13  4   8  36  30   +6  43
  8 Heartwood Reserves             25  12  6   7  40  27  +13  42
  9 Archbishop B                   25  13  2  10  41  28  +13  41
 10 Springs Reserves               25  13  1  11  54  43  +11  40
 11 Isca Town B                    25  11  6   8  33  33   +0  39
 12 Labrador United Reserves       25  10  7   8  29  25   +4  37
 13 Shepherds Reserves             25  10  7   8  36  29   +7  37
 14 FC Mineurs B                   25   9  9   7  32  24   +8  36
 15 Bridgewall City Reserves       25  11  3  11  24  20   +4  36
 16 Portus B                       25   9  5  11  24  24   +0  32
 17 Lumberjacks Reserves           25   8  7  10  32  37   -5  31
 18 St. Martin B                   25   8  6  11  35  35   +0  30
 19 Olympique Sept-Iles B          25   7  8  10  30  39   -9  29
 20 Homesteaders B                 25   8  3  14  23  36  -13  27
 21 Grande Vitesse B               25   7  4  14  23  38  -15  25
 22 Eboracum City Reserves         25   6  6  13  26  47  -21  24
 23 Comrades B                     25   6  5  14  28  40  -12  23
 24 FC Acadia B                    25   5  7  13  26  45  -19  22
 25 Maritimes Reserves             25   3  9  13  13  34  -21  18
 26 First Nations B                25   2  6  17  15  44  -29  12

Sanctuary's Reserves make it look easy, winning the league by eight. This completes the trifecta for Sanctuary, as their youth team won the Academy Division regular season, their senior team won the Sovereign Division, and now the reserve team have claimed the Reserve Division crown! The highest ranked Yeoman Division team were County's reserves, in 4th, while the lowest finishing Sovereign Division team were Olympique, in 19th.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Fri Oct 02, 2020 5:42 am

Season 16 Nova Anglican Cup

Play-in Round
Port Hawkesbury 0–1 Shediac FC
Shediac FC 0–0 Port Hawkesbury (1-0 aggregate)

Kingston Town 1–0 FC Agvituk
FC Agvituk 1–0 Kingston Town (1-1 AET, 1-2 aggregate)

Riverview United 2–1 Queens County South FC
Queens County South FC 2–1 Riverview United (3-3 AET, 4-5 aggregate)

Stephenville 0–1 AFC 11th of June
AFC 11th of June 0–0 Stephenville (1-0 aggregate)

Harbour Breton 1–3 Garden City FC
Garden City FC 0–0 Harbour Breton (3-1 aggregate)

New Glasgow Casuals 1–0 AS Saint Jean-Minganie
AS Saint Jean-Minganie 0–1 New Glasgow Casuals (0-2 aggregate)

Acadia Caraquet 3–1 Spring Hill Harriers
Spring Hill Harriers 3–3 Acadia Caraquet (4-6 aggregate)

Eboracum City FC 0–3 Clarenville XI
Clarenville XI 2–1 Eboracum City FC (5-1 aggregate)

Two years ago, one non-league side knocked off a Third Division club. Last year, none did. This year, the floodgates open as Shediac, AFC 11th of June, and Garden City defeat their higher-ranked opponents. Meanwhile, Kingstown Town and Riverview need extra time to defeat their opponents. Finally, City lose both legs and crash out in a ignominious end to an ignominious season.

First Round
First Nations FC 5–0 Shediac FC
Shediac FC 1–4 First Nations FC (1-9 aggregate)

Homesteaders FC 0–0 Kingston Town
Kingston Town 0–1 Homesteaders FC (0-1 aggregate)

Fishermans FC 2–1 Riverview United
Riverview United 0–0 Fishermans FC (1-2 aggregate)

FC Mineurs 0–1 AFC 11th of June
AFC 11th of June 1–1 FC Mineurs (2-1 aggregate)

Comrades FC 1–0 Garden City FC
Garden City FC 0–1 Comrades FC (0-2 aggregate)

Maritimes FC 0–0 New Glasgow Casuals
New Glasgow Casuals 1–0 Maritimes FC (1-0 aggregate)

Isca Town FC 3–0 Acadia Caraquet
Acadia Caraquet 0–3 Isca Town FC (0-6 aggregate)

Londinium County FC 2–1 Clarenville XI
Clarenville XI 1–1 Londinium County FC (2-3 aggregate)

FC Acadia 3–0 Dalhousie
Dalhousie 2–1 FC Acadia (2-4 aggregate)

Bay Roberts 1–0 Saint Stephen
Saint Stephen 1–0 Bay Roberts (2-0 AET, 2-1 aggregate)

Sussex Town 0–0 Rothesay Corinthians
Rothesay Corinthians 0–1 Sussex Town (0-1 aggregate)

Marystown Rovers 3–0 Yarmouth United
Yarmouth United 0–1 Marystown Rovers (0-4 aggregate)

Bathurst Athletic 0–0 Glace Bay
Glace Bay 1–1 Bathurst Athletic (1-1 aggregate, Bathurst advance on away goals)

St. Anthony 0–0 Miramichi Caledonians
Miramichi Caledonians 0–2 St. Anthony (0-2 aggregate)

Fall River 1–0 Edmundston Rangers
Edmundston Rangers 1–0 Fall River (2-0 AET, 2-1 aggregate)

Stellarton Rovers 0–1 AFC Truro
AFC Truro 1–0 Stellarton Rovers (2-0 aggregate)

This is the second year that FC Mineurs will be bowing out in the first round to a lesser opponent, but this time they fall to non-league side AFC 11th of June, becoming the first Yeoman Division side to ever lose to a non-league team. Other upsets include New Glasgow Casuals taking down Maritimes, and the minor upset of Saint Stephen over Bay Roberts. Meanwhile, First Nations wake up and smell the football, as it's Cup time once again, blasting Shediac 9-1 on aggregate. Isca Town lays the wood in 6-0 aggregate fashion to another team that has surprised in recent years, Acadia Caraquet, and both promotion play-off teams, Sussex Town and Marystown Rovers advance as well.

Second Round
Olympique Sept-Iles 3–0 First Nations FC
First Nations FC 0–4 Olympique Sept-Iles (0-7 aggregate)

Springs FC 0–1 Homesteaders FC
Homesteaders FC 0–1 Springs FC (0-3 AET, 1-3 aggregate)

Lumberjacks FC 0–3 Fishermans FC
Fishermans FC 0–0 Lumberjacks FC (3-0 aggregate)

Castellum FC 0–1 AFC 11th of June
AFC 11th of June 0–0 Castellum FC (1-0 aggregate)

Sporting Vinovium 4–1 Comrades FC
Comrades FC 5–2 Sporting Vinovium (6-6 aggregate, Vinovium advance on away goals)

FC Gránde Vitesse 1–0 New Glasgow Casuals
New Glasgow Casuals 0–1 FC Gránde Vitesse (0-2 aggregate)

Shepherds FC 2–2 Isca Town FC
Isca Town FC 4–2 Shepherds FC (6-4 aggregate)

Artisans FC 0–1 Londinium County FC
Londinium County FC 0–0 Artisans FC (1-0 aggregate)

FC St. Martin 1–0 FC Acadia
FC Acadia 0–2 FC St. Martin (0-3 aggregate)

Heartwood FC 1–0 Saint Stephen
Saint Stephen 0–0 Heartwood FC (0-1 aggregate)

Labrador United FC 1–2 Sussex Town 
Sussex Town 0–1 Labrador United FC (2-2 aggregate, Sussex Town advance on away goals)

FC Portus 3–2 Marystown Rovers
Marystown Rovers 0–1 FC Portus (2-4 aggregate)

Bridgewall City FC 8–2 Bathurst Athletic
Bathurst Athletic 0–3 Bridgewall City FC (2-11 aggregate)

Archbishop FC 1–0 St. Anthony
St. Anthony 1–2 Archbishop FC  (1-3 aggregate)

Newfield Athletic 1–1 Edmundston Rangers
Edmundston Rangers 1–0 Newfield Athletic (2-1 aggregate)

Sanctuary FC 3–1 AFC Truro
AFC Truro 0–4 Sanctuary FC (1-7 aggregate)

Can we talk about the upsets in this round? Counting down from the top, we have to start with Edmundston Rangers knocking off Newfield! Yeah, yeah, it wasn't Newfield's A-squad, but it also wasn't Newfield's reserve team. Newfield's senior team substitutes clearly didn't take it seriously, and Edmundston made 'em pay. This is probably the biggest upset of all time in the NA Cup, a giant like Newfield going out to a Third Division team. Sussex Town went headhunting and won on away goals against Labrador, showing that maybe Labrador got a bit lucky during the season. It's a disappointing exit in a season where they thought they were poised to go pretty deep. Fishermans also win in an upset, ambushing Lumberjacks in Vinovium 3-0, then clamming up in Londinium to preserve the win. Lumberjacks' run of three straight semifinals appearances ends three rounds before they even get the chance. Finally, we have to talk about AFC 11th of June. The non-league miners' club from Cape Breton Island was not only one of four teams ever to make it past the play-in round, then the first one to defeat a Yeoman Division side, and now the first to defeat a Sovereign Division side to make it to the Round of 16. An incredible Cinderella story so far. It was made possible by the firing of Carlton Holland at the end of the season for Castellum, the appointment of Bryan Davis as interim head coach, and his mandate from the owners to play reserves and youth players exclusively. It was hoped this would get them valuable experience and let the club see who deserved to get promoted to the big club, but it backfired spectacularly. This is, without a doubt, Castellum's worst season ever.

But we also saw some blowouts, including Olympique stopping First Nations and David Gleason in their tracks, winning 7-0 on aggregate, Sanctuary's 7-1 aggregate route of AFC Truro, and Bridgewall versus Bathurst Athletic. Bridgewall played their first string in an attempt to bury any hopes Bathurst might have of an upset, and it worked to a tee. Ahrens, Palomer, Schlok, and Couture all scored in the first half and the subs poured it on in the second to win 8-2. Bridgewall's reserves and substitutes finished Bathurst off 3-0 in the return leg for an 11-2 aggregate whupping.

Round of 16
FC St. Martin 4–0 Olympique Sept-Iles
Olympique Sept-Iles 0–3 FC St. Martin (0-7 aggregate)

Heartwood FC 3–3 Springs FC
Springs FC 1–1 Heartwood FC (4-4 aggregate, Springs advance on away goals)

Fishermans FC 1–0 Sussex Town
Sussex Town 1–0 Fishermans FC (1-1 AET, 1-2 aggregate)

FC Portus 2–0 AFC 11th of June
AFC 11th of June 1–2 FC Portus (1-4 aggregate)

Bridgewall City FC 3–1 Sporting Vinovium
Sporting Vinovium 1–1 Bridgewall City FC (2-4 aggregate)

Archbishop FC 4–1 FC Gránde Vitesse
FC Gránde Vitesse 2–1 Archbishop FC (3-5 aggregate)

Isca Town FC 1–0 Edmundston Rangers
Edmundston Rangers 1–0 Isca Town FC (1-1 AET, 1-2 aggregate)

Sanctuary FC 1–0 Londinium County FC
Londinium County FC 3–3 Sanctuary FC (3-4 aggregate)

AFC 11th of June's Cinderella story finally comes to an end at the hands of Portus. Aware of Castellum's mistake, they played a mix of first and second-stringers in their 2-0 home win, then unleashed the reserve team in Cape Breton, which also worked out in a 2-1 win for them. An amazing run for AFC 11th of June and the prize money will really help them. Sussex Town and Edmundston Rangers also crash out, though it took AET to defeat them both. Elsewhere, St. Martin routed Olympique in both legs, setting up a confrontation with Sanctuary after they had two toughies against County. Springs put three in the net in Eboracum, which helped them move on on away goals, while Archbishop's 4-1 win in the first leg against Grande Vitesse was enough to clinch the whole tie for them. Bridgewall handled Vinovium pretty easily.

Quarterfinals
Bridgewall City FC 0–0 FC Portus
FC Portus 1–0 Bridgewall City FC (1-0 aggregate)

Archbishop FC 2–2 Fishermans FC
Fishermans FC 1–2 Archbishop FC (3-4 aggregate)

Springs FC 1–0 Isca Town FC
Isca Town FC 1–0 Springs FC (2-1 AET, 2-2 aggregate, Springs advance on away goals)

Sanctuary FC 3–1 FC St. Martin
FC St. Martin 2–1 Sanctuary FC (3-4 aggregate)

Here in the quarterfinals, the runs of the final Yeoman Division teams left, Fishermans and Isca Town, come to an end, but not without a fight. In the Londinium Derby matchup, Fishermans rally from 2-1 down in Kelly Park to salvage a draw, and it takes an 83rd minute goal from Micah Galbraith for Archbishop to escape losing on away goals down by the dock. Meanwhile, Springs and Isca Town trade 1-0 wins, which means the second leg needs to go to extra time. Springs strike first, tying the score late in the first period on a goal from Mike Monaghan, forcing Isca Town to get reckless and go all-out attacks to find two goals in less than 20 minutes. They pull back one, but two is impossible and they lose on away goals.

Sanctuary handle St. Martin in the first leg in Rutupiae, then play a more cautious game in DC, trying not to get overwhelmed like St. Martin did to Olympique. They're not 100% successful, letting in two goals, but they manage to hold off the Horsemen's attack for long enough to run out the clock and advance on aggregate. They will face Portus, who scored the only goal in two legs to defeat Bridgewall. It came courtesy of a high-skying Christian Summers, who headed home Levi Goodman's cross in the 78th minute. Should be a tough matchup for both sides in the semifinals.

Semifinals
Archbishop FC 1–2 Springs FC
Springs FC 0–3 Archbishop FC (2-4 aggregate)

Sanctuary FC 0–0 FC Portus
FC Portus 0–0 Sanctuary FC (2-1 AET, 2-1 aggregate)

Archbishop look to be in trouble when Springs come into Kelly Park and walk out with a 2-1 win courtesy of two goals from AM Toby Weaver, scything through the Archbishop defense. Winning on the road is no easy task, and especially needing a win by multiple goals or to score three. Springs fans are out in full force, and due to some shenanigans, Archbishop face a stadium that is 97% for their opponents. Bu strangely, it doesn't seem to affect them. Gu Zhalei finds Freddy Beal in the 7th minute, and all the pressure is lifted. Dave Sorensen adds a goal in the 26th minute and Zhalei puts the icing on the cake in the 63rd minute. By this time, the partisan crowd are completely stunned and silenced. It seemed so close for them, so close to an actual chance at glory after a lot of heartache in recent years. But it all fades away and Archbishop are through to the final.

In the other semifinal, Portus are determined not to be beaten in Rutupiae and play a much more traditional defensive style in place of the more attacking strategy they adopted this year. They frustrate Sanctuary's attack and leave needing only a home win to punch their ticket to the final. As Springs are hosting Archbishop, Portus welcome Sanctuary to town just 35 miles away from the other match. All eyes are on West Newfoundland as Portus and Sanctuary play a gritty, scoreless, 90 minutes. Agostino Montargis is going toe-to-toe with Algar Cason and showing his quality. Now to extra time. A lucky bounce puts the ball at the feet of an unmarked Aaron Stevenson, who blasts it home to give the home team the lead. The fans are ecstatic, but they still need to defend for the last 20 minutes. Cason finally gets the better of Montargis by laying it off to Zachary Harrell, who's in just the right position to tap it home past Jordan Hopkins and suddenly it's Portus who need a goal. They're going to lose on away goals if they don't get one in the next ten minutes. Despite Sanctuary's best efforts, Adam Monday uses some tricky footwork to draw defenders, get free, and find Luke Cunningham on the far side for a brilliant goal in the waning moments, sending Portus to the Cup final and Sanctuary this close to a chance at the domestic double.

Nova Anglican Cup Final
Archbishop FC 1–1 FC Portus (1–2 AET)

In Kelly Park, but with a more balanced crowd than usual, Archbishop take on Portus for the Cup. It's even, back-and-forth, for 90 minutes as Levi Goodman opens the scoring for Portus in the 29th minute, but Damian Hillman counters in the 56th for Archbishop to tie the score. As the game goes into extra time, Stevenson gets the opportunity, creating some separation, and finding the top corner of the net in the second period of extra time to give his team the win. Portus have some joy after what looked like a lost season 12 games in. They'll play in the CEdC and the Cup Winners' Cup next year, hoping for more success than this year.

Nova Anglicana Sports Newswire

Season 16 Part 2 (WIP)

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