SBC.sch/sport (Domestic Sports Newswire of Schottia)

by **Schottia** » Thu Oct 05, 2017 12:25 am

Matchday Nineteen - Twenty-Four & UICA Knockouts

Champions' Cup -- Last Sixteen
(NPH) Sabrefell Moths 2–3 Handon United

This week it seems to be Schottia verses Sabrefell in UICA competition, and Champions, Handon United were first up to take one of footballs most famous cities. It was as tight a game as most people would have imagined, and last year's Globe Cup champions were giving nothing away on home soil. It was to the pace and trickery of Aspenwood and Lovenkrands that United looked in this match, with the duo seemingly capable of harrying the Moths defence. With the match hanging in the balance after Aaliyah Johnson pulled the Nepharim side level, Dilon Bánach's 81 minute strike proved crucial, as the Schottia star connected with a Natalie Adams pass, to give her side a great chance to clinch the tie on home soil.

Globe Cup -- Last Thirty-Two
(TMB) Hoxford United 2–1 Port Sebastian
Cornellians 3–3 Sabrefell Athletic (NPH)

Port Sebastian my find it difficult to recover from what was a shock 2-1 defeat at the hands of Tumbran side Hoxford United. The worst part for Porty was that they looked all at sea in Esportiva, and really struggled to make any headway in a match they truly needed to win. Cornellians are also now in a very difficult position, as they will be travelling to Sabrefell desperately needing a result of some kind. While they held their own against the Nepharim champions, the 3-3 draw means that away goals are most certainly going to count against them. It seems that this stage of UICA competition is becoming a bit of a stumbling block for the Eagles, and while they have the personnel to go far, they keep making things hard for themselves.

Cup Winners' Cup -- Last Sixteen
Cornellians 1-1 Pajukas Sport (BYN)

SPL
Mucusia 2–4 Port Sebastian
Lammerton 3–2 Cornellians
Granton Vale 3–4 Port James Athletic
New Island 2–3 La Gorlions
Dundee 1–0 Handon United
Port Patrick United 1–0 New Belfast Blues
Kirk Preston United 2–0 Soessch 1990
Kings Park 0–0 Hillstreet
New Belfast Warriors 5–3 D'Itille
FC Soessch 1–1 Hollin

A 4-2 win for Port Sebastian over Mucusia will perhaps grant Jock Sonny a stay of execution, after a bad result in the Globe Cup on Thursday night. The team seem all out of ideas suddenly, and that much is evident in the way they have been playing. That said, the North Handon side are still pound-for-pound one of the best in the league, and that trademark, direct physical approach, proved too much for their lightweight opponents. Whenever Mucusia got the ball into the final third they looked dangerous, with Hétu and Foucault prowling around the box. However, in the middle of the pitch it was the Porty duo of Cummings and Leonard who really stamped their authority on things. Former Dundee girl, Cummings, slotted the ball through for Purinton to open the scoring, before adding a second herself just before half time. Porty went 3-0 up shortly after the restart as Demba Traore headed home an Andrya Novkovic cross. Mucusia did come back into the game, and a couple of goals of their own made the scoreline look a lot more respectable. However, after Purinton added her second of the match, it killed the game as a contest.

La Gorlions and New Island played out a full blooded fixture in South Berwick, with the lead changing hands several times before the visitors eventually came out on top. Brendan Ranald was once again a powerful force going forward for the Lions, and Fredrick Houben did a very good job of keeping Holly Addison quiet in the midfield. Cephus Hunt opened the scoring, after picking up a clever sideways pass from Alf Seggerson, but a strong header from Erik Cunningham levelled the scores. New Island then put the visitors under a fair bit of pressure, with Nova Kymeri and Niko Rosmalen both going very close, before Ramone Scotta turned in an Ikas Nike cross to give them the lead. La Gorlions are a team that never say die however, and they quickly pulled themselves level, as Kirsten Gemmill showed a neat touch to finish from close range. Then, in the last few minutes, they managed to take home all three points, as veteran midfielder, Seggerson, curled in a strike from miles out, sending the small group of travelling fans home ecstatic.

Match of the day was inevitably Lammerton Vs. Cornellians, with the league's on form side taking on the team at the top. One thing was for certain, we were going to see goals, as these two fierce advisories battled it out. Between 2021 and 2024, these sides finish first and second every year, and Lammerton could argue their case for being the second most successful side the UICA era, despite never having lifted the title. They started this game confidently too, roared on by a packed crowd. Elspeth Glendening gave them the lead after Kaytlyne Victoriane squared the ball for her strike partner. But Cornellians got themselves back level soon after, as Kel Koromin's accurate header left Jim Black stranded at the front post. The Hornets were in menacing mood, and Raquel Naeher tested Jeremy McNott's reflexes after a surging run into the box, before Victoriane restored her side's lead moments later. Cornellians equalised once more thanks to a Jade Irwin goal, but Lammerton thoroughly deserved the win, and wrapped things up with a timely effort from Cenian playmaker Jasper Valaran.

In other results: A Heidi Spearing goal gave Dundee a surprise win over Handon United. Pepe continued to star for Port James, as the Seasiders won 4-3 at Granton Vale. And New Belfast Warriors keep their title hopes alive as they put five past D'Itille.

Champions' Cup -- Last Sixteen
Handon United 1-1 Sabrefell Moths (NPH)

Handon United are allowed to dream for yet another month, as they held Sabrefell Moths to a 1-1 draw at Harbour Hill Stadium. The Schottic champions were carrying a slender lead into the second leg after a heroic performance in Nephara, and were forced to weather a storm the early stages here. The home fans were finally able to sit down in the 29th minute though, after Daniel Dostalok gave them the lead against the run of play. There was an equaliser from Imriel Townsend in the second half, but United managed to hold in the face of some severe pressure. Can the club go any further? It's difficult to say, but there is a feeling now around central Handon that Jane Gullie is in the process of building something very special.

Globe Cup -- Last Thirty-Two
Port Sebastian 0-2 Hoxford United (TMB)
(NPH) Sabrefell Athletic 3-1 Cornellians

Jock Sonny must now be on borrowed time, after Port Sebastian lost 2-0 at home to Hoxford United, as they crashed out of the Globe Cup. Porty needed a big result, but their players were forced to traipse from the pitch with their heads hung low, after defeat meant a 4-1 aggregate result. While Cornellians' result was certainly more excusable, it will be equally disappointing for the club with such high ambition, to have fallen at the first hurdle like this. After conceding three goals in Lochend last week, it was always going to be an uphill struggle for The Eagles to get one over on the Nepharim champions. Their 3-1 defeat to the Reds in Sabrefell perhaps shows how far the side how got to go if they want to reach the pinnacle on the multiverse stage.

Cup Winners' Cup -- Last Sixteen
(BYN) Pajukas Sport 0-2 Cornellians

SPL
Port Sebastian 1–0 Hollin
FC Soessch 2–0 D'Itille
New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Hillstreet
Kings Park 1–0 Soessch 1990
Kirk Preston United 2–0 New Belfast Blues
Port Patrick United 2–2 Handon United
Dundee 0–1 La Gorlions
New Island 1–0 Port James Athletic
Granton Vale 2–3 Cornellians
Lammerton 3–1 Mucusia

Kirk Preston United are having a terrific season, and are now on the brink of the pushing well up into the top half of the table. Ross Killanen's team currently look solid as a rock, and given the problems the biggest teams have had breaking them down this season, New Belfast Blues had no chance. The Holy Men are very often written off as a team of bruisers, but they have enough about them to cause the opposition defence problems too. It's normally Leopoldo Ramirez doing the damage in attack, but today Schottic target man, John Wylie got both the goals, in what was a very strong performance. Alexander Alan found the 23-year-old with an inch perfect cross to break the deadlock, before Ian Long's stinger of a drive from 25 metres out, somehow rebounded kindly for Wylie to tuck home the second. Russ Linvoy and Frazer Mata were particularly impressive in defence for Kirk Preston, as they helped ensure their side kept a clean sheet.

Having picked themselves up and dusted themselves off, Lammerton now have the Champions' Cup places firmly in their sights, and this dynamic side recorded another impressive win over Mucusia. The Eusabians have been finding the going tough of late, and things didn't get any easier for them as they headed to the Lammerton City Ground. It's often been said that their lack of success in UICA competition has conversely helped Lammerton in the league, and maybe that is the case, as while United, Port, and Cornellians all seem to be struggling, it's the Hornets who are making good progress with their lighter fixture list. Mucusia were utterly taken apart in the first half, and were lucky to go up the tunnel only two goals down. The visitors did pull a goal back in the closing stages, but a late Mars Alexandersson strike sealed a good 3-1 win for the title hopefuls.

Cornellians needed a win this weekend after the heartbreak of another UICA exit, and faced a short trip to their nearest rivals Granton Vale. There were some weary looking legs on the park, and in fact, both Kathryn Kvanderwyk and Triffid Ramsey were rested. The Beachcombers seem unable to buy win at the moment, yet they played well in this game, twice pulling themselves back level with goals from John Fyfe, and Lucy Khoroushi. Cornellians didn't look entirely comfortable, but a double from Johannas Ünzerhausen, and a great solo effort from Isla Sibučić were enough to keep the former five-in-a-row champions at the top of the table.

In other matches: Handon United could have had no complaints as they slumped to a 2-2 draw with the Breakers; their Champions' Cup commitments no doubt catching up on them at last. Jock Sonny probably bought himself another week in charge, as the entrenched Porty boss guided his side to a narrow win over Hollin. And lastly, goals from Groaré Sasca, and Kerstin Dornenberger kept FC Soessch in the hunt, as they came through a very physical match with D'Itille.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Five

Player: Johannas Ünterhausen -- Cornellians
Ünterhausen got off to a slow start on his return to the SPL, but be is now up and running, and showing why Shale was so eager to bring him onboard. The Schottia international has always struggled to live up to his early hype, but perhaps now he is growing into the complete midfielder Schottia fans thought he was, when watching him as a 15-year-old playing for D'Itille.

Young Player: Russ Linvoy -- Kirk Preston United
Kirk Preston are really getting their act together at the moment, and playing some good football. The improvements they have made in defence have been a huge factor in their rise up the league, and this young man has been at the heart of the back four.

Manager: Johnny Smith -- Lammerton
Two awards in a row for Johnny Smith and Lammerton, as the young manager looks set to have a big future in the game. He's said, with the set of players at his disposal, that Champions' Cup football is a minimum target. If they keep up this current vein of form, then the league title probably isn't even out of the question.

SPL
Lammerton 3–2 Port Sebastian
Mucusia 3–2 Granton Vale
Cornellians 2–3 New Island
Port James Athletic 1–4 Dundee
La Gorlions 1–0 Port Patrick United
Handon United 0–2 Kirk Preston United
New Belfast Blues 1–1 Kings Park
Soessch 1990 1–0 New Belfast Warriors
Hillstreet 0–2 FC Soessch
D'Itille 0–1 Hollin

Matchday twenty-one, and another top SPL manager bites the dust. First John Sedder received his marching orders from Lammerton, and now Jock Sonny is left looking for a new job. Port Sebastian have struggled to put together a consistent run of form in the SPL this season, but it is believed that their Globe Cup exit was the last straw for the board. Well, second last straw perhaps, given the manager was sacked immediately after their 3-2 defeat at Lammerton. While Port came close to taking something from the game, the passion was definitely missing, as the Handon side fell away in the second half. Lammerton, by contrast, look like a team on the up - fluid, precise, deadly in front of goal - had the Hornets played like this all season, then they would have been cruising towards the title by this point. Raquel Naeher and Elspeth Glendening scored the goals in the first half which got them up and running; only for Port Sebastian to mount a surprise comeback with strikes from Eloisa Purinton and Demba Traore. Kaytlyne Victoriane latched onto a pinpoint pass from Jasper Valaran to score the winner, as Porty's legs failed in the closing stages.

There was a massive upset this week, as Cornellians slumped to a defeat at the hands of New Island. With the visitors having their sights set on another league title, and the home side struggling to break into the top half of the table following the sale of two key players, you'd be forgiven for thinking this one might have been a forgone conclusion. However, the Pebbles seemed able to raise their game, as they came out all guns blazing, and really took the Eagles by surprise. Ramone Scotta is a handful at the best of times, but with his tail up, the Cosumarite striker can really do some damage. His physical presence was a huge threat to the Cornellians centre-backs throughout the match, but no more so than at his opening goal. Cornellians, of course responded, and after a cleverly disguised through ball from Jade Irwin, Kathryn Kvanderwyk managed to fire them level from just inside the box. New Island were not going to give in though, and after Nova Kymeri whipped down the left flank, the winger was able to cross the ball for Scotta to prod in his second. This was definitely a match where the Cosumarites shone, and Isla Sibučić rattled the upright, before Kel Koromin managed to pull the Eagles level once more with a well-timed strike. There was a nervy sort of tussle at the end of the match, but it was New Island who took the advantage, as Holly Addison's long-range strike took a wicked deflection off Maeon Vlahos before bouncing past Jeremy McNott for 3-2.

Handon United didn't exactly have the best preparations for their Champion's Cup quarter final, as they lost 2-0 at home to Kirk Preston. In a match, which had echoes of the fixture at the start of the season, United seemed little prepared for the battering they were about to received. Too often aggrieved by their heavy handed treatment, and the referee's unwillingness to reach for the red card, the home side allowed their heads to go down. Goals from John Wylie, and Oliver Helling helped the Holly men to what will go down as one of the club's best ever wins in the SPL.

In other results: A double from Sett Horn helped Dundee to a very impressive 4-1 win over a struggling Port James Athletic. FC Soessch displayed a very workmanlike attitude in their 2-0 win over Hillstreet. And, there was another shock result, as highflying New Belfast Warriors lost 1-0 away to Soessch 1990, after a late strike from Jessica Grey.

Champions' Cup -- Quarterfinal
Handon United 0–0 Flanders FC (COM)

Handon United must have been nervous going into this one, given the fact that they had conceded two goals at home to Kirk Preston at the weekend. Flanders FC promised to be a whole different proposition, and Jane Gullie's players were going to have to really raise their game if they wanted to stay in the tournament. To their credit, United played much better, with Lukas Finnan and JK Cottle cool calm and composed as ever at the back. Regatta Aspenwood perhaps had the best chance of the game, but after turning the Flanders' right-back inside out, the Nepharim attacker could only find the side netting. A very good save from Shjegrzh Na'Kefir in the closing stages ensured that United hung on for a well-earned draw.

Series B -- Quarterfinal
New Belfast Blues 3–0 Oljestaden IF (AUD)

The Blues took a massive step towards the semi final of the Series B, with a 3-0 win over Audioslavian side, Oljestaden IF. Daineri striker, Shu, scored a hattrick in this match, as the player looked a different class.

SPL
Port Sebastian 2–1 D'Itille
Hollin 1–1 Hillstreet
FC Soessch 1–1 Soessch 1990
New Belfast Warriors 3–1 New Belfast Blues
Kings Park 1–0 Handon United
Kirk Preston United 1–3 La Gorlions
Port Patrick United 2–0 Port James Athletic
Dundee 3–4 Cornellians
New Island 5–1 Mucusia
Granton Vale 0–2 Lammerton

The question on everyone’s' lips this week was who will be the next manager of Port Sebastian. One of the most prestigious jobs in the country was one that traditionally came with a lot of pressure. John Sedder was an obvious candidate, but was it too soon following his sacking at Lammerton? A few of the managers doing well in the league right now would be ruled out on the grounds of their Handon United connection, leaving the likes of Judy Scott, Des Pleent and Grant Nean the most likely candidates. Could Barry Gorman be tempted into a return? Or could Porty go for their first foreign manager? We would need to wait and see. In terms of the on-pitch side of things, the Handon club kept their heads down and secured a narrow win over D'Itille. These matches are never the easiest when you're down on your luck, and the Lime Greens made things very hard for the home side. In the end a Purinton freekick deflected in off the underside of the crossbar to keep the managerless team in the hunt for the UICA spots.

Cornellians managed to secure three points, but for the second week running they were made to work very hard. Walter Queen seems to have been able to keep the momentum going at Dundee since taking over from Johnny Smith, proving that his appointment was another assured move from this flawlessly ran club. When you see the punch the Panners are able to pack even against a side ranked inside the UICA top 20, it's obvious just how good a structure they have in place. Horn, Spearing, and Scougle were all signed on frees, while Gerrish, Keane and Buckthorn were all members of the Dundee youth system. Despite a frantic and high paced match, it was the Eagles and their star-studded line up, which won the day however, proving that money can perhaps be the difference with a 4-3 win.

As the pressures of playing on two fronts continue to hit Handon United hard, the club dropped points yet again, this time away to Kings Park. The match between the two central Handon sides was a hotly contested one indeed, with a great midfield battle between Rachel Hellion and Lillith Paterson. Handon United pushed very hard for a goal in the second half, with both Natalie Adams and Daniel Dostolok going very close. However it was Tiferet Ashbrown's goal after only seven minutes, which separated the teams, as Raven Cullen's side held on for a brilliant win over their local rivals.

Elsewhere: New Island clearly took some of the momentum from their win over Cornallians into their match with Mucusia, as they ran out 5-1 winners. Port Patrick took a step closer to UICA qualification, as goals from Callum Frir and Whitney Kelly gave them a 2-0 win over Port James Athletic. And finally, Lammerton seemingly just cannot stop winning right now, a fact that was underlined by a 2-0 victory over strugglers, Granton Vale.

Champions' Cup -- Quarterfinal
(COM) Flanders FC 3-3 a Handon United

Handon United desperately needed to pull themselves up by the bootstraps and go into this match with a positive mental attitude if they were to grab a place in the UICA Champions' Cup semi-final. Jane Gullie's side couldn't afford to let the slump in their league for affect them, as having kept things tight in the first leg, a goal here could put them in prime position. Both sides had everything to gain by going for it, and that was evident in the score line. Three times Handon United took the lead and gave themselves that all-important cushion, but each time FC Flanders succeeded in pulling them back, to set up an intense finish the match. The United travelling support must have been doing summersaults, as the home side went close with a series of late chances, but once again it was Na'Kefir who was the hero, as two late saves saw his team over the line. Next up is a derby of sorts with Christopheran champions, Blue Coast; a match which United have every chance of winning.

Series B -- Quarterfinal
(AUD) Oljestaden IF 3-0 p New Belfast Blues (4-3 pen)

Despite their excellent win in Schottia, NBB needed penalties to get past Oljestaden IF. Charlotte Ünterhausen was the hero on the night, as she tucked away the winning kick.

SPL
Granton Vale 1–2 Port Sebastian
Lammerton 1–0 New Island
Mucusia 0–1 Dundee
Cornellians 1–0 Port Patrick United
Port James Athletic 1–0 Kirk Preston United
La Gorlions 3–1 Kings Park
Handon United 1–0 New Belfast Warriors
New Belfast Blues 0–0 FC Soessch
Soessch 1990 3–0 Hollin
Hillstreet 3–0 D'Itille

Nicholas Lars? Anyone..? Nope not many people will have heard of him, but the former SFA youth performance director was unveiled as the next new manager of Port Sebastian. The 48-year-old who has worked with many of Schottia's home grown stars, has also managed Regional Development Side A and C in his time with the academy set up. There is no doubt that his appointment is a risk, but by all accounts the Porty board were suitably impressed by his interview, and the ideas he brought to the table. First up for Lars was hardly the most difficult fixture he will face in his time in charge, as Port Sebastian travelled to relegation threatened Granton Vale. It will be hard to judge him on this one game, but Port Sebastian played pretty well, and despite going a goal down, responded positively, with two second half goals from Keeva Crowe and Andrya Novkovic getting them safely over the line. In his post match interview, Lars said he was 'pleased with the start... [and was] looking forward to winning trophies with the club in the near future.'

Soessch 1990 did their survival chances no harm at all with a slightly surprising three nil win over Hollin. If Jessica Grey continues to play like this, she will all but guarantee that this is her last season on the North Island, and while the Osarian didn't get on the scoresheet today, she was a constant thorn in the opposition's side, and had a hand in all three goals. Hollin had started the season well, but with the small playing squad they have at their disposal, it is obvious that legs are starting to get heavy. Colin Loweson had been the club's shinning light this year, but even the DBC cap looked lost for ideas in the centre of midfield as his side were utterly overrun.

Handon United got the result they need to stop the rut. It might not have been pretty, but it was enough to keep them in second place, while they continue to divide resources between the SPL and the Champions' Cup. One of the problems for United is the fact that many of their best players are not used to the dizzying heights of the latter stages of the CC, or the pressures of defending the league title. We shouldn't be too hard on them though, they are still second in the league after all, and the CC should not be viewed as some sort of curse. The reigning champs regrouped for this match, and defended stoutly in the face of a strong Warriors attack. Once again it was Natalie Adams who possessed the keys to unlock the opposition defence though, her excellently timed through ball, setting up Regatta Aspenwood for the only goal of the game.

In other results: Cornellians had to work very hard for a 1-0 win over Port Patrick, as the Breakers did well to keep the formidable attack at bay. Hillstreet recorded an important win as they look to shore up survival, beating D'Itille 3-0. And, two goals from the outstanding Kirsten Gemmill lifted La Gorlions into the UICA places as they disposed of Kings Park

SPL
Port Sebastian 3–1 Hillstreet
D'Itille 2–2 Soessch 1990
Hollin 0–1 New Belfast Blues
FC Soessch 3–2 Handon United
New Belfast Warriors 0–1 La Gorlions
Kings Park 3–1 Port James Athletic
Kirk Preston United 6–3 Cornellians
Port Patrick United 1–1 Mucusia
Dundee 0–1 Lammerton
New Island 3–2 Granton Vale

Nicholas Lars' second match in charge of Port Sebastian went reasonably well, as they welcomed Hillstreet to Dyerton Stadium. Lars played Keeva Crowe from the start, just behind the front two, in a move which seemed to work well. The teenager gave the Hunters' defence the run-around for most of the first half, and even had a hand in the opening goal, as her forward pass found Eloisa Purinton in space. Port stuck twice more in the second half, on both instances from good flowing moves, to put the game far beyond former manager Conner Watts and his Hillstreet side. In spite of their somewhat indifferent season so far, Porty now find themselves in a good position to strike as we head into the final third. Four points off third, and only two points of the first Globe Cup spot, there is every chance now that they can finish the season strongly. Some will definitely feel that Jock Sonny was sacked a little unfairly, but the board clearly felt they needed to act now if they were going to build for the future.

Porty's bitter rivals, Handon United, slipped a little further off the pace however. FC Soessch, in Bergstadt, is always going to be one of the toughest fixtures in the calendar, but all the same, United will feel a little disappointed with the sudden loss of momentum. Credit where it's due however, Soessch did play well throughout this match, and the way they responded to going a goal down, hints towards them heading for a strong league finish this season. After Daniel Dostolok put United ahead after only eight minutes, the home side put their head down got themselves back into the match. Kerstin Dornenberger hammered in a strike from the edge of the area, before David Hughes was on hand to turn in a cross from Laura Smith. Groaré Sasca and Temasso Tenebrosa both had shots saved, before Tamika November headed in a corner from Currian Cort to score their third.

The big result this week was one that actually takes some getting your head around. How on earth Kirk Preston put six goals past Cornellians is a bit of a mystery, but don't adjust your computer screen, it did happen. Reinhard Shale was understandably livid with his side, after they conceded four goals in the second half, suffering a humiliating defeat. There were few in the Eagles side who leave with any credibility, but Kel Koromin did manage to score two, before he was forced to hobble of injured. Leopoldo Ramirez scored a hittrick, and there were also goals for John Wylie, Alexander Alan, and Thomas Barr. The win sees The Holy Men stay 9th, only three points behind the North Handon duo of Port Patrick, and Port Sebastian.

In other results: Johnny Smith's return to his former stomping ground went well, as Lammerton went equal top of the league with a 1-0 win. New Island have now moved away from any real relegation threat, with a 3-2 win over Granton Vale. And, La Gorlions are now two points off of third place, with a win away to New Belfast Warriors.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Six

Player: Leopoldo Ramirez -- Kirk Preston United
The Guayabalese striker has been on fire, in this, his second SPL season. Kirk Preston have been enjoying an outstanding season by their own standards, but there is no doubt that Ramirez's goals have been a big factor in putting them where they are. He seems to have really matured as a player over the last 18 months, and whereas before he was a sort of raw goal scorer, he is now much more the complete package.

Young Player: Nova Kymeri -- New Island
The versatile young Cenian will probably be the next player to head towards the New Island exit door if she continues to play like this. The DBC star has been leaving players for dead down the left flank all season, despite being a very commitment holding midfielder. With her attributes, Kymeri will undoubtedly go far.

Manager: Gaston Avelione -- La Gorlions
None of us imagined the Lions being where they are after 24 matches. While we thought they might struggle, the North Island side are instead challenging up at the top of the table, and it has very much been a team performance.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cornellians            24   16   2   6    78   53  +25    50
 2 Lammerton              24   14   8   2    43   24  +19    50
 3 Handon United          24   14   3   7    42   33   +9    45
 4 La Gorlions            24   13   4   7    29   25   +4    43
 5 FC Soessch             24   12   6   6    47   32  +15    42
 6 New Belfast Warriors   24   13   3   8    41   27  +14    42
 7 Port Sebastian         24   12   5   7    56   42  +14    41
 8 Port Patrick United    24   11   8   5    38   28  +10    41
 9 Kirk Preston United    24   12   2  10    43   40   +3    38
10 Dundee                 24   11   4   9    33   24   +9    37
11 Port James Athletic    24    9   6   9    42   39   +3    33
12 Kings Park             24   10   3  11    35   41   −6    33
13 Hillstreet             24    8   6  10    35   38   −3    30
14 New Island             24    9   3  12    32   39   −7    30
15 Mucusia                24    8   4  12    34   45  −11    28
16 New Belfast Blues      24    5   7  12    28   42  −14    22
17 Hollin                 24    5   7  12    29   47  −18    22
18 Soessch 1990           24    5   5  14    24   37  −13    20
19 D'Itille               24    3   6  15    31   56  −25    15
20 Granton Vale           24    2   4  18    27   55  −28    10

First Division

Marionville climbed back up to the top of the league with 24 matches already played, opening up a six point lead over third place side Handon North. The Boys seem to have their act together now, with heavy wins over the likes of the Dale and Lammerton City particularly impressive. Having had the wage structure to bring in Cornellians loanees, Alex Pearce and Lara Wedderburn have no doubt made a massive difference. West Coast Warriors are still clinging on in second though, as they look to make history in reaching the SPL. West Holbrookdale, and Snubbeak are still hanging around too, but it looks as if the play-offs might be their best hope.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Marionville            24   17   4   3    62   29  +33    55
 2 West Coast Warriors    24   16   3   5    52   31  +21    51
 3 Handon North           24   14   7   3    41   30  +11    49
 4 Bara Waves             24   14   6   4    41   25  +16    48
 5 Snubbeak Rock          24   13   7   4    52   28  +24    46
 6 West Holbrookdale      24   14   4   6    49   36  +13    46
 7 FC Döllar              24   12   5   7    41   29  +12    41
 8 Oak Park Celtic        24   11   6   7    36   32   +4    39
 9 Berwick United         24   10   7   7    36   28   +8    37
10 Lammerton City         24    9   8   7    36   37   −1    35
11 Jena VB                24    9   6   9    42   38   +4    33
12 Wolbeck                24    9   5  10    41   47   −6    32
13 Lammerton Eels         24    6   9   9    35   39   −4    27
14 Toll Cross Academy     24    7   6  11    30   41  −11    27
15 Central Stars          24    7   5  12    32   41   −9    26
16 Lammerton Wonderers    24    6   4  14    36   48  −12    22
17 Stalker Bay            24    4   6  14    36   51  −15    18
18 Bolton Green           24    3   7  14    30   54  −24    16
19 Allous VB              24    2   5  17    23   50  −27    11
20 Baumann VB             24    0   4  20    18   55  −37     4

First Division Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Five

Player: Justyna Eriksson -- Berwick United

Young Player: Alexander Pearce -- Marionville

Manager: Jack Cordoba -- Marionville

First Division Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Six

Player: Abigail Teris -- Bara Waves

Young Player: Andrew Bell -- Marionville

Manager: Betty Black -- West Snubbeak Rock

Schottic Cup -- Quarterfinal
Handon North 2–2 Kings Park (2–2 AET) (2–3 pen.)
Bara Waves 1–1 Marionville (1–1 AET) (4–1 pen.)
Snubbeak Rock 0–1 Handon United
Dundee 2–3 Lammerton

by **Schottia** » Tue Oct 10, 2017 12:02 am

Matchday Twenty-Five - Thirty & UICA Knockouts

SPL
New Island 2–4 Port Sebastian
Granton Vale 0–1 Dundee
Lammerton 1–1 Port Patrick United
Mucusia 1–4 Kirk Preston United
Cornellians 0–0 Kings Park
Port James Athletic 2–0 New Belfast Warriors
La Gorlions 0–1 FC Soessch
Handon United 3–2 Hollin
New Belfast Blues 3–2 D'Itille
Soessch 1990 1–0 Hillstreet

A draw for Lammerton! Just as we thought they were actually indestructible, the Hornets were held to a draw by fellow UICA chasers, Port Patrick. Johnny Smith's side have been on an incredible run, taking them from the pits of despair to the top of the league. However they came up against a determined opponent this week, and the Breakers showed no signs of going down without a fight. Jasper Valaran put the home side in front right at the start of the second half, after a hard-fought opening forty-five. However, Whitney Kelly's exquisite pass played Callum Frir through on goal ten minutes before the end, to level the scores. It wasn't the result Lammerton would have hoped for, but a run of fourteen straight wins had to come to an end at some point.

Port Sebastian's revival under Nicholas Lars continued this weekend, as they picked up another three points on the New Island. Vera Cummings has been struggling a little this season, dropping out of the Schottia squad in the process. However the midfielder was full of ideas in this match, scoring two goals, one of which was a scorcher from the edge of the area. Porty didn't have it all their own way, and the Pebbles produced chances of their own. Nova Kymeri was once again a hand full, and set up one of her side's goals, with a whipped ball for Ian Wilson. It was Port Sebastian's day however, as their strikers came up with the goods. The result moves the back up into the top-five as we approach the business end of the season.

With Lammerton and Cornellians dropping points this week, Hiroyo Nunez's late goal might prove to be a vital one for Handon United. With big Champions' Cup matches coming up imminently, United need to make sure they keep ticking over in the league. Hollin at home isn't a game Jane Gullie would expect to struggle with, but it's been a funny old season, and legs are clearly tiring. A tremendous forward pass from Dilon Bánach released Regatta Aspenwood, cutting in from the side, to finish from a tight angle. Hollin were treating this one like a cup final though, and rarely let United get out of sights. Colin Loweson's speculative effort looked to be creeping in at the far post, and as Shjegrzh Na'Kefir scampered across the goal to keep the ball out, Fred Dawson was on hand to level the tie. United picked up the whip once again, with players like Rachel Hellion and Natalie Adams dragging the team forward from back. Daniel Dostalok applied a neat finish from a Christian Lovenkrands cross, before Hollin levelled on the breakaway thanks to winger, Chris Jack. Just as it looked like the home team would drop yet more points, up popped the towering Redvali striker, Nunez, to clatter Adam's corner into the back of the net.

In other results: Kirk Preston's fairytale season continued with stunning 4-1 win over Mucusia. FC Soessch got through the North Island Derby with La Gorlions by the skin of their teeth. And goals from Derick Mason and Yunji earned Port James a 2-0 win over the Warriors.

Cup Winners' Cup -- Quarterfinal
Cornellians 2-0 Celtic Noviodunum (NGD)

SPL
Port Sebastian 2–1 Soessch 1990
Hillstreet 0–1 New Belfast Blues
D'Itille 0–1 Handon United
Hollin 0–1 La Gorlions
FC Soessch 0–0 Port James Athletic
New Belfast Warriors 1–1 Cornellians
Kings Park 0–0 Mucusia
Kirk Preston United 2–1 Lammerton
Port Patrick United 4–0 Granton Vale
Dundee 1–1 New Island

What Ross Killanen has been saying to his players this season is a mystery, but it must be something inspired. Lammerton were yet the latest victims of the Holy Men, as the Globe Cup now looks like a very realistic prospect. Lammerton on the other hand, seem to have run out of steam a little, having battled tooth and nail to salvage their season. Alexander Alan has been a revelation since joining from Sporting Avargia and again Lammerton struggled to deal with his pace and directness. It wasn't that the visitors played badly, they were just beaten by a better team on the day. The result sees the Hornets stay second, however they are now equal on points with United.

Port Patrick delivered a crunching defeat to Granton Vale, as they put four goals past their neighbours for no reply. The Breakers are working hard for a return to UICA competition, after getting a first taste of international domestic football two year ago. The North Handon side have looked strong all season, and the likes of Tanya Yeats, Whitney Kelly, Callum Frir, and Chase Ziegenhorn all performed well again in this match. In Cenian, Ziegenhorn, Port Patrick really seem to have a player for the future, and while he didn't get on the score sheet, he set up both of Frir's goals. For Granton Vale, the game would appear to be up, as a dismal season shows no sign of improving any time soon. It's sad, because there are actually a couple of good young players in the Beachcombers' side, but this was perhaps too big an ask.

The top two continued to be reeled in, with Cornellians also dropping points as they took on New Belfast Warriors. The Whalers are another side who seem to be running out of energy, as a few of the plates begin to stop spinning and start to drop. Despite the Warriors being the home team, they were on the back foot for a lot of this match, with the likes of Koromin, Irwin, and the Kvanderwyks pushing hard for the opening goal. When the breakthrough finally did come, it was an Irwin free kick, which was headed in by Mershawn Mercury, after Christian Berg initially failed to connect. The result definitely flattered the New Belfast side, an manager Graeme Collins no doubt couldn't believe his luck as Lavender Jameson responded quickest to a spilled Tomás Fierro shot to level the scores. The Eagles' lead at the top of the table is looking shakier and shaker with every passing week, and you now get the feeling that the title could be anyone's this season.

In other matches: Port Sebastian are still in the honeymoon period of Lars' reign, as yet another win would suggest. Despite peppering the Mucusia goal for ninety minutes, Kings Park were somehow held to a draw at home. And Handon United homed back in on the top of the table with a 1-0 win away to D'Itille.

Champions' Cup -- Semi-Final
(PCR) Blue Coast 1981 2–2 Handon United

If Handon United were entirely honest, they did not expect to get this far in the competition. However, it was probably even more of a surprise that it was Blue Coast 1981 who lay in wait. Jane Gullie would have been very aware that this was a winnable match, especially given the fact that Coast had sold their star asset, Evelyn Conjure. The temperature in San Marco felt close to boiling point, and United came under a lot of pressure. The visitors went behind twice in this match, both times resulting from set-pieces, which on another day, might have been defended better. United stuck to the task though, and Daniel Dostalok's 87 minutes equaliser gave them a second away goal, and the advantage going into the final leg.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Semi-Final
New Belfast Blues 3–1 Morto Clube (CPV)

The Blues also looked on the verge of completing a phenomenal year for Schottic clubs in UICA competition, as they comfortably defeated Morto Clube in the home leg of their Series B semi-final. Goals from Shu, Temples, and Birch gave the South Schottic side a very solid lead to defend as they head to the Capivara Group for the return fixture.

Cup Winners' Cup -- Quarterfinal
(NGD) Celtic Noviodunum 2-0 Cornellians (3-0 AET)

SPL
Dundee 2–3 Port Sebastian
New Island 2–2 Port Patrick United
Granton Vale 2–3 Kirk Preston United
Lammerton 5–1 Kings Park
Mucusia 2–2 New Belfast Warriors
Cornellians 2–0 FC Soessch
Port James Athletic 2–0 Hollin
La Gorlions 3–0 D'Itille
Handon United 2–1 Hillstreet
New Belfast Blues 1–0 Soessch 1990

Nicolas Lars' winning start to life as Porty boss continued, with an impressive win away to Dundee. The South Schottic side are never an easy side to face when you are needing points, and of course the made it hard for the North Handon giants. Not too many of Port Sebastian fans had heard of Lars before he took over, but few are likely to be complaining now. Hard work, pressing in the midfield, and accurate passing play seem to be what the team are striving for, and we saw that in abundance in this match. Despite going two goals up thanks to strikes from Demba Traore and Joey Bia, Port Sebastian were pegged back, as Dundee pushed hard in the second half. Goals from Wallace Solway and Heidi Spearing brought the Panners back level, before Eloisa Purinton curled home a freekick with ten minutes left on the clock. The result keeps the club within sight of the Champions' Cup places.

Lammerton got over their blip finally, with an emphatic 5-1 win at home to Kings Park. The Hornets had started to come undone a little in recent weeks, so such a convincing win will help reaffirm the fact that they are very much in this title fight. Kaytlyne Victoriane scored a double inside the opening twenty minutes, as two decisive breakaways left the Royals cut right open. Victoriane, and Raquel Naeher, in the wide areas, were proving too hot to handle for the Kings Park wingbacks, and it wasn't long before the latter created Lammerton's third. A low driven ball from the Nepharim was blasted into the roof of the goal by the onrushing Elspeth Gelndening. Mars Alexanderson then made it four with a stinging shot from nearly 25 metres out, before Vicoriane claimed the match ball, by firing in her third from the right side of the box. There was a consolation goal for Kings Park's Meghan Hartsdown, but here was no sign of a comeback on the cards.

La Gorlions are a side who have already exceeded all expectations, and they continued their brilliant season with a three nil win over D'Itille. The Lions have shown a real hunger in recent months, with the Avelione brothers really instilling a sense of fight in their players. Cephus Hunt scored the first, following a expertly guided through ball from the talented, Yelena Shostakovich. Kirsten Gemmill then doubled their lead just before half time, as she got a toe to a Brendan Ranald cross to direct it past James Peterson. The Nepharim striker then grabbed her second of the afternoon, showing some real tenacity in holding off the challenge from Jane Schramm before smashing the ball past the keeper. If La Gorlions could stay where they are, they will make some club history by qualifying for UICA competition for the first time.

Elsewhere: Handon United might not be winning pretty right now, but they all count. A late goal from Christian Lovenkrands got them past Hillstreet at Harbour Hill Stadium. Cornellians, won a key battle with FC Soessch to keep them at the top of the pile, but only just. And lastly, Kirk Preston continue to look unbeatable, as they defeated Granton Vale 3-2.

Champions' Cup -- Semi-Final
Handon United 0-0 Blue Coast 1981 (PCR)

The word nervy doesn't even do this one justice. Handon United had one foot in the final of the Champions' Cup before the whistle was blown; all they needed to do was keep things tight, and they would secure their place at the Lonngeylin Coliseum. Blue Coast, understandably, through everything at the Schottic side, with Ross Renshaw and Chad Duquez both coming close on more than one occasion. However the Handon United defence held strong, with Finnan and Cottle looking absolutely resolute in the face of the Coast attack. The nil-nil draw was enough to see United through, despite a tense last five minutes. The turn around in this club's fortunes is incredible, with the fans now looking forward to a date with Cenians, 1860 Azoth, in the grand final.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Semi-Final
(CPV) Morto Clube 1-1 New Belfast Blues

A little like waiting for buses. It seems to be a similar idea with Schottic clubs and UICA finals, as two come along at once. The final will cap what has been a very good year for Bruno Schwartz and his NBB side, on their return to the SPL.

SPL
Port Sebastian 3–0 New Belfast Blues
Soessch 1990 1–3 Handon United
Hillstreet 1–1 La Gorlions
D'Itille 1–1 Port James Athletic
Hollin 3–0 Cornellians
FC Soessch 0–1 Mucusia
New Belfast Warriors 3–2 Lammerton
Kings Park 4–2 Granton Vale
Kirk Preston United 2–2 New Island
Port Patrick United 2–3 Dundee

Desperately in need of a win to rekindle their sinking season, Kings Park became the latest side to inflict a heavy defeat on the very much doomed, Granton Vale. Improved performances seem to have counted for very little, as the Royals have settled back into their normal bottom half of the table position. They were strong in this match though: Hartsdown, Sendoa, and Paterson all did their job in the middle. Ashbrown and McCorralie terrorised the Beachcombers down the wings, and Dejan Corvell was there to tuck away the goals. There were even signs that veteran defender, Darren Hanlon, appears to be getting things sorted out at the back. It is perhaps starting to look like it might not be their season, but Cullen is on a long-term contract, and with fresh investment over the summer, you could see 'Handon's Wee Team' pushing up the table next year.

Handon United have now recorded two absolutely pivotal wins in four days, as a gutsy victory in Soessch lifted them back up to the top of the league. The Raiders looked well up for the match, and seemed determined to halt the Handon United party with a Jessica Grey goal early in the first half. However, with their calendar now freed up, United were having none of it. Regatta Aspenwood showed that lightness of touch she is famed for, drifting past Niele Wolbeck, before levelling the match. United then took the lead after Natalie Adams held the ball up well, before finding the run of Daniel Dostalok for their side's second. Jane Gullie's players played with a lot of confidence in the second half, and rarely looked in any real danger of throwing away the lead. Chromatik midfielder, Rachel Hellion, completed a very good day at the office for her and her teammates, latching onto a Dilon Bánach pass to seal the victory.

At Ashley Road we saw a battle between two very evenly matched sides, as the Warriors played host to Lammerton. Both teams have had their ups and downs this season, and neither would have been happy with anything other than all three points. While the Hornets have had highs and lows, for the Whalers it has been moments of inconsistency within the match that have been their undoing far too often. We nearly saw that again today as the home side gave away a two goal lead, while concentration levels started to drop at the start of the second half. Lammerton had plenty of chances to nab all three points, with both Glendening and Valaran coming close to giving them the lead. However, five minutes from the end, a nicely weighted through ball from Der Pros picked out Kiki on the edge of the box. The Kirisakian striker had time to turn and shoot, giving the New Belfast club all three points.

In other matches: Hollin pulled off the shock of the weekend, by knocking Cornellians off the top of the table in spectacular style. Port Sebastian now have their title challenge back on track, or so it would seem, a 3-0 win over the Blues underlining how far they have come. And a late sucker punch from former player, Sarah Foucault, will have been a bitter one for FC Soessch, as their 1-0 defeat at the hands of Mucusia saw them lose ground.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Seven

Player: Natalie Adams -- Handon United
Last season's player of the year, Adams, has been up to her old tricks again, dictating the pace and controlling the midfield. It has been a superb month for United in general, with the whole team digging deep and getting some seat of their pants results to haul them back to the top of the table. Adams typifies everything that is good about them right now.

Young Player: Pepe Edgar -- Port James Athletic
Port James' record signing at $6,000,000 and actually looks like a bit of a bargain at that price. The 20-year-old is a top-class defender in the making, and one of the reasons his side only conceded a single goal this month.

Manager: Jane Gullie -- Handon United
Maybe a little bit unfair not to give this to Nicolas Lars, who really hit the ground running at Porty. However, given that Handon United have climbed back to the top of the league while securing a spot in the Champions' Cup final has to give them the edge. There are a few very good teams in the SPL right now, but it does look like we might be witnessing a very special set of players in this United side.

SPL
Port Patrick United 6–5 Port Sebastian
Dundee 2–3 Kirk Preston United
New Island 3–4 Kings Park
Granton Vale 1–3 New Belfast Warriors
Lammerton 0–1 FC Soessch
Mucusia 3–1 Hollin
Cornellians 4–1 D'Itille
Port James Athletic 0–0 Hillstreet
La Gorlions 3–0 Soessch 1990
Handon United 1–0 New Belfast Blues

What is it with North Handon derbies? This one produced a staggering eleven goals, as Port Partrick United came close to throwing away a four-goal lead amidst a spirited Port Sebastian comeback. The Shipbuilders Vs the Ship Breakers normally produces some interesting fixtures, and we knew we were in for one hell of a match, after the home side rushed off to a 3-0 lead inside fifteen minutes. Tanya Yeats really inserted herself into this game, her range of passing causing a lot of problems for Porty early on. Things only got worse from there for Nicolas Lars' side, and despite grabbing a couple themselves, they conceded yet another three to see Port Patrick 6-2 up with an hour on the clock. There were doubles from both Callum Frir and Chase Zeigenhorn, as the strike duo continued to impress. Just when it looked like Porty were down and out, however, they sprung back to life, with Gloriaxian captain, Eloisa Purinton leading the fight back. The 31-year-old scored one and set up one, as the visitors pushed hard to take something from the match. Four goals simply proved too much of an ask though, and they slumped to their fist defeat with Lars at the reins.

Kings Park made it eight goals in two matches, as they followed up their result the previous week with a 4-3 victory on the New Island. The Royals have been facing a bit of an uphill task to work their way back into the top half of the table, but stringing a couple of wins together like this is the way to go about, given the league is still so tight. New Island are another side who have perhaps failed to live up to their billing this season, as the sale of Grant Carlin and Elizabeth Addison seems to have taken the shine off their performances. Tiferet Ashbrown is someone who has had a very good debut season however, and is now starting to add some muscle to her performances. The Brenecian was star of the show in this match, scoring the side's second following a lung bursting run into the box. New Island did come close to taking a point, and as Holly Addison's long-range effort bounced in off the post with nine minutes left on the clock, they must have thought they'd done enough. However, after Lilith Paterson robbed Niko Rosmalen of possession, she was able to thump the ball forward to Billy McCorralie, who gave the royals a precious three points.

And there was no stumble from Cornellians this weekend, as they looked to hunt down Handon United. This was a very proficient performance from Reinhard Shale's side, who barely put a foot wrong. A double from Isla Sibučić will be the main talking point, as this looks increasingly like a breakthrough year for the teenager. There were also goals from Mershawn Mercury, and Tsumugi Narita as the Eagles finished very strongly. One other point of interest, a certain Richard Pearce made a stoppage time cameo in this match. The 17-year-old son of former boss, Alexander snr, made his first appearance, but could do little to influence the match during his three minutes on the pitch.

In other matches, Handon United stay top thanks to a deflected strike from Rachel Hellion, which saw them defeat NBB 1-0. Lammerton must feel their big chance slipping away, as a 1-0 defeat to FC Soessch dealt them a huge blow. And Kirk Preston stay in the Globe Cup spots with a 3-2 win at Dundee.

SPL
Port Sebastian 2–4 Handon United
New Belfast Blues 1–0 La Gorlions
Soessch 1990 2–1 Port James Athletic
Hillstreet 2–2 Cornellians
D'Itille 4–3 Mucusia
Hollin 0–0 Lammerton
FC Soessch 3–2 Granton Vale
New Belfast Warriors 0–0 New Island
Kings Park 1–0 Dundee
Kirk Preston United 1–1 Port Patrick United

After the violence that followed the last Handon Derby, extra police were drafted in for the return fixture at Dyerton. Things were made all the more tense given the fact that this was a big game for both clubs, who could ill afford to drop points. There were a few flashpoints, with Sloan Kirkland and Dilon Bánach facing off, before Esther Abner really should have been red carded for a hideous challenge on Regatta Aspenwood. The match ebbed and flowed, as you would expect with any derby, but it was obvious that there was one team who were going to come out on top. The turn around over the last two years is incredible, with United and Porty more or less switching places in terms of the formbook. With the scores level on 82 minutes, Lukas Finnan sent the away fans crazy as he headed in a Louis Hordern corner. Port Sebastian pushed hard for an equaliser, but left holes in the defence, and it was one such opening that Daniel Dostolok exploited as he ensured his side retained the bragging rights.

Cornellians continued to display the sort of inconsistencies, which will make it hard for them to win back their SPL crown. This week, they passed up a number of chances in the second half, which inevitably saw them drop points to Hillstreet in Huntley. The Eagles are by no means out of the title race, but given the form Handon United are in, they can't afford any more slip-ups from here on in. Jade Irwin got the ball rolling after fourteen minutes, as the Nepharim scored with an excellent individual effort. However on loan striker, Ashur Ben Hassi, managed to break free of the attentions of Stephen Gargo to riffle Hillstreet back level. In the second half The Eagles pressed the home side hard, and both Ünterhausen and Mercury drew good saves from the keeper before Kathryn Kvanderwyk restored their lead. Just as it looked like Reinhard Shale's side had done enough to wrap up all three points, disaster struck, and an incisive Ichiko Tsukahara break away saw the Kiri winger set up Will Castillo for the equaliser.

Kings Park moved up to equal tenth, as nine points in three games suggests they have come onto a run of form at the right time. Their match with Dundee was a real six pointer and we were able to see another side of the Royals, with new signing, Lilith Paterson, showing her physical attributes in a 90 minute brawl with Jim Gerrish. The match wasn't exactly end-to-end, although it was hotly contested. It became obvious early on, that one goal would most likely be all that would separate the two sides in the end. The home team probably just had advantage in terms of the balance of play, and a sublime freekick from Hartsdown picked out Dejan Corvell, who headed past Ed Lorrey to give his side all three points.

In other results: La Gorlions missed the chance to go third, as they slumped to an unexpected defeat at New Belfast Blues. FC Soessch took full advantage, moving back up to sixth, with a 3-2 win over Granton Vale. And Lammerton were held to a 0-0 draw by a brave Hollin side, fighting for their lifes.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Handon United          30   20   3   7    56   39  +17    63
 2 Cornellians            30   18   5   7    87   60  +27    59
 3 Lammerton              30   15  10   5    52   32  +20    55
 4 Port Sebastian         30   16   5   9    75   57  +18    53
 5 La Gorlions            30   16   5   9    37   28   +9    53
 6 FC Soessch             30   15   7   8    52   37  +15    52
 7 Kirk Preston United    30   16   4  10    58   49   +9    52
 8 New Belfast Warriors   30   15   6   9    50   35  +15    51
 9 Port Patrick United    30   13  11   6    54   40  +14    50
10 Dundee                 30   13   5  12    42   34   +8    44
11 Kings Park             30   13   5  12    45   51   −6    44
12 Port James Athletic    30   11   9  10    48   42   +6    42
13 Mucusia                30   10   6  14    44   56  −12    36
14 New Island             30    9   7  14    42   52  −10    34
15 New Belfast Blues      30    9   7  14    34   48  −14    34
16 Hillstreet             30    8   9  13    39   45   −6    33
17 Soessch 1990           30    7   5  18    29   47  −18    26
18 Hollin                 30    6   8  16    35   56  −21    26
19 D'Itille               30    4   7  19    39   71  −32    19
20 Granton Vale           30    2   4  24    34   73  −39    10

First Division

Marionville look now to be coasting towards the title and an instant return to the SPL, having gotten over their problems early on. Striker, Lara Wedderburn, crossed the 25-goal-mark this month too, as the club moved their goal difference up to +39. The Boys will be desperate to get promotion sewn up as soon as possible, so they can begin to start building for next season, where they will face a whole new level of challenge. There is still some way to go, but it also looks like the chances are high that one of the former WSL clubs could join Marionville in the SPL next season. Both the Waves and WCW are riding high at the moment, and could be set to make history, providing they can hold off the challenges from their much bigger rivals, West Holbrookdale and Snubbeak Rock. Towards the bottom of the table, things have picked up a little for Central Stars, but down in twelfth place, they will need to now wait until next year before they can look again at promotion.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Marionville            30   21   6   3    76   37  +39    69
 2 Bara Waves             30   18   6   6    47   28  +19    60
 3 West Coast Warriors    30   17   7   6    56   36  +20    58
 4 West Holbrookdale      30   18   4   8    59   44  +15    58
 5 Snubbeak Rock          30   16   8   6    57   31  +26    56
 6 Handon North           30   16   8   6    46   40   +6    56
 7 Lammerton City         30   14   9   7    48   41   +7    51
 8 FC Döllar              30   15   5  10    52   37  +15    50
 9 Berwick United         30   12   8  10    47   37  +10    44
10 Oak Park Celtic        30   12   7  11    43   43    0    43
11 Wolbeck                30   12   7  11    55   56   −1    43
12 Central Stars          30   12   6  12    50   50    0    42
13 Toll Cross Academy     30   10   8  12    41   49   −8    38
14 Jena VB                30    9  10  11    51   49   +2    37
15 Lammerton Eels         30    8  11  11    39   44   −5    35
16 Lammerton Wonderers    30    7   8  15    44   56  −12    29
17 Stalker Bay            30    6   6  18    41   60  −19    24
18 Bolton Green           30    3   9  18    32   60  −28    18
19 Allous VB              30    2   6  22    27   64  −37    12
20 Baumann VB             30    0   5  25    19   68  −49     5

First Division Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Seven

Player: Dawn Gracie -- Bara Waves

Young Player: Leo van Giewensbeck -- Allous VB

Manager: Jane Swanson -- Bara Waves

by **Schottia** » Mon Oct 30, 2017 11:22 am

Matchday Thirty-one - Thirty-seven

SPL
Kirk Preston United 2–1 Port Sebastian
Port Patrick United 4–4 Kings Park
Dundee 1–0 New Belfast Warriors
New Island 2–2 FC Soessch
Granton Vale 1–1 Hollin
Lammerton 1–0 D'Itille
Mucusia 2–3 Hillstreet
Cornellians 3–0 Soessch 1990
Port James Athletic 4–1 New Belfast Blues
La Gorlions 1–1 Handon United

Kirk Preston moved up to fourth in the league this weekend, as it seems like we could be on the verge of witnessing something quite exceptional. Auldgate Road has been packed to capacity this in recent weeks, as the club's fans continue to crawl out of the woodwork, spurred on by a series of stunning results. This time it was Port Sebastian who came a cropper, as an injury time goal meant they had to travel back north empty handed. The match was back and forward throughout the first half, and both sides had plenty of chances, with Ramirez and Purinton the main attacking threats for their respective sides. It was therefore unsurprising that the teams went up the tunnel at half time, with the scores level at 1-1. In the second half the home side really got their teeth into the match, and showed the kind of form that has propelled them up towards the top of the table, as Alan and Ramirez cut the former champions apart time after time. In the end though, it was a scrappy goal from young John Wylie, which gave Kirk Preston all three points.

It terms of goals, match of the day was most certainly the encounter between Port Patrick and Kings Park. Neither side are known for being shy in going forward, and we saw plenty of robust challenges and speculative efforts as these two looked to bludgeon one and other into submission. Cenian, Sendoa, was the pick of the players in the opening forty-five; his measured passing giving the Royals the edge as they opened up an early lead. Port Patrick United came back into the match however, and a bullet header from Callum Frir brought the sides back level, largely against the run of play. The scores were 4-4 with 70 minutes on the clock, and both sides were desperate for that winning goal. However, despite attempts from Chase Zeigenhorn, and Tiferet Ashbrown, the match ended in a tie.

With Handon United only managing a draw, this was a massive match for Cornellians, as they welcomed Soessch 1990 to Lochend Stadium. It's probably not been exactly the season the Eagles were hoping for, as they looked to wrestle their title back from United's clutches; but they are still in this one as it goes down to the wire. There was really only one team who looked like taking away all three points, with the Cornellians front two of Kvanderwyk and Koromin causing the Raiders defence all sorts of problem. The home side took the lead on the half hour mark, as Isla Sibučić slipped the ball through to Koromin who converted just inside the back post. They then went two nil up, as the Cenian squared the ball for his strike partner, Kathryn Kvanderwyk, who couldn't really miss with the goal gaping. Cornellians' wrapped things up five minutes from time when elder brother, Kit Kvanderwyk, curled in an effort from the edge of the area to give his side a 3-0 win.

In other matches: Port James look to be finishing the season strongly, with a 4-1 win over New Belfast Blues. It was a bad weekend for the Blues' city rivals also, as Dundee heaped more misery on the Warriors with a 1-0 win. And lastly, a late goal from David Hughes salvaged a point for FC Soessch, as they drew 2-2 with New Island.

Schottic Cup -- Semi-Final @ Duke Street Stadium, and Harbour Hill Stadium
Handon United 1–0 Kings Park
Bara Waves 0–1 Lammerton

SPL
Port Sebastian 3–2 La Gorlions
Handon United 4–2 Port James Athletic
New Belfast Blues 3–3 Cornellians
Soessch 1990 0–1 Mucusia
Hillstreet 5–2 Lammerton
D'Itille 3–2 Granton Vale
Hollin 0–3 New Island
FC Soessch 0–1 Dundee
New Belfast Warriors 0–1 Port Patrick United
Kings Park 3–1 Kirk Preston United

A very impressive fight back at Harbour Hill Stadium saw Handon United edge a little closer to the league title this weekend. The 4-2 victory over Port James Athletic means that a positive result against Cornellians the following week, should put them well on course to retaining their league title. This was a game of two halves, with the Seasiders coming out of the blocks all guns blazing. The visitors caused United all sorts of problems early on, and quite deservedly went up the tunnel with a 2-1 lead. It the second half United seemed to click, however, and a quick fire double from Christian Lovenkrands put the champions back in front. Athletic were running out of ideas by this stage, and a well directed pass from Regatta Aspenwood picked out Daniel Dostolok to wrap up all three points. It wasn't a perfectly polished performance from Jane Gullie's players, but they had the pace and the cutting edge to take home all three points.

It looks as if the pressure at the top may have also finally cracked Kirk Preston. The Holly Men were soundly beaten by an on form Kings Park, proving perhaps, that getting to the top is one thing, but actually finish top-three is altogether more difficult. We have mentioned, just how much of a mixed bag the Royals have been this season, but today we saw the best of Raven Cullen's side, as they produced some excellent attacking football. Meghan Hartsdown is a player who is now really coming onto a game, and is looking better and better this season. The Brenecian played a superb through ball for countrywoman, Tiferet Ashbrown's opener, and was unlucky not to find the net herself with a long range effort. Sendoa seems to also be maturing into a good player, and the Cenian did in fact get on the score sheet, bursting free of Thomas Barr before finishing with a lovely strike into the bottom corner. Dejan Corvell completed the scoring, rising above Ollie Helling to flick a Billy McCorralie cross into the back of the net.

Another side who seem to slowly be returning to earth are La Gorlions, who were in with a shout of a Champions' Cup spot until very recently. However, as the tough matches seem to keep coming for the Lions right now, they dropped yet more points, this time away to Port Sebastian. Porty face an uphill struggle if they are going to lift the title, but the third place is still very much in their sights, and they did their chances no harm today with this win. The Lions' striker force of Gemmill and Hunt was dangerous throughout the match, but it was the Handon side who had the real quality. In a very tight game, a late goal from Michi Leonard settled the scores.

In other matches: Lammerton were on the wrong end of a shocking 5-2 defeat at the hands of Hillstreet, putting a serious dent in their title ambitions. Cornellians suffered a late setback too, as a Shu goal denied them all three points against NBB. And Wallace Solway scored a peach of a goal, as Dundee won an impressive victory over FC Soessch in Bergstadt.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Eight

Player: Meghan Hartsdown -- Kings Park
It had to be a Kings Park player this month, and after much deliberation, the award goes to Meghan Hartsdown. The Brenecian was actually brought to the club by previous manager, Pascal Voitle, and the 22-year-old seems to be getting better all the time. She has also performed well at international level, and you would imagine the only way is up for the young playmaker.

Young Player: Isla Sibučić -- Cornellians
Already being tipped for the Young Player of The Year gong, Sibučić has really broken through at Lochend this season. She's the kind of play you can't help but wish was Schottic, but unfortunately, the teenager has already been capped for her native Cosumar. Keeping a hold of her over the next few years is going to be Reinhard Shale's big challenge.

Manager: Raven Cullen -- Kings Park
The feel good factor is finally back at Kings Park, after nearly a decade of mediocre results. It seems that Cullen's new look side have succeeded where their predecessors have failed, with the Royals finally challenging for UICA football again. We thought the capture of the former Brenecia and Anglatian boss was a massive coup even at the start of the season, and the club's patience in her has now paid off.

SPL
Kings Park 3–2 Port Sebastian
Kirk Preston United 1–2 New Belfast Warriors
Port Patrick United 2–2 FC Soessch
Dundee 0–0 Hollin
New Island 3–0 D'Itille
Granton Vale 7–5 Hillstreet
Lammerton 6–3 Soessch 1990
Mucusia 1–0 New Belfast Blues
Cornellians 4–1 Handon United
Port James Athletic 1–2 La Gorlions

Things are most certainly getting nervy now. Five matches to go, and Cornellians have got themselves right back into the title race, wining the mother of all six pointers against Handon United. Cornellians have taken a little bit of criticism over the past couple of months, but they absolutely smashed the Champions' Cup finalists in this one. Cheered on by an impassioned home support, the Eagles launched a series of stinging attacks, using technical ability from the likes of Irwin, Sibučić, and Kit Kvanderwyk to good effect. Johannas Ünterhause looked composed yet again, playing in a much deeper role, protecting the back four, while Vlahos and Ramsey caused a lot of damage overlapping in the wingback areas. The end result saw Handon United totally overrun, with goals from Irwin, Koromin (2), and Isla Sibučić meaning that the league title looks set to go down to the wire yet again. Jane Gullie's side managed a late consolation goal, as a wicked, whipped Regatta Aspenwood cross was turned in at the far post by Natalie Adams, but United were well beaten.

Lammerton's season has been nothing if not eventful, and a 6-3 win over Soessch 1990 will have given the home fans plenty to talk about this week. The SPL title is still mathematically within the Hornets' sights, however, after a terrible start to the season, it would be a phenomenal achievement to win it from here. There is plenty of room for positivity though, as attendances continue to be high, and a young manager in the form of Johnny Smith seems to have the club playing their most attractive football in living memory. Despite conceding three at the back, Lammerton look excellent going forward, especially in the wide area's where Kaytlyne Victoriane and Raquel Naeher really gave the Raiders defence the run around. It has taken Elspeth Glendening a bit of time to get up and running since joining from Port James Athletic, but the Schottia star was very impressive today, scoring a second half hattrick, as Lammerton finished in convincing style.

We talked a lot about Kings Park's newfound form last month, and the Handon side proved once again how improved they currently are, as a late goal helped them to all three points against Port Sebastian. Porty, while having had a bit of a lift after Nicolas Lars' appointment, seem a little stuck at the moment, and this defeat shouldn't come as an enormous surprise. Porty actually did very well to get themselves back into the match, after Raven Cullen's side opened up a two goal lead. The visitors must have thought they'd done enough to steal a point when Eloisa Purinton's freekick deflected in off the post; however, Tiferet Ashbrown struck in stoppage time to ensure all three points stayed at Lochely Green.

In other matches: Relegation resigned Granton Vale somehow managed to score seven goals in one of the SPL's highest ever scoring games, as they beat Hillstreet 7-5. New Belfast Warriors won the local derby in Kirk Preston, as a Globe Cup spot seems to be slipping through the Holly Men's fingers. And a Ramone Scotta double helped New Island to a 3-0 win over D'Itille.

SPL
Port Sebastian 3–3 Port James Athletic
La Gorlions 0–2 Cornellians
Handon United 1–1 Mucusia
New Belfast Blues 2–3 Lammerton
Soessch 1990 1–2 Granton Vale
Hillstreet 2–2 New Island
D'Itille 3–3 Dundee
Hollin 3–2 Port Patrick United
FC Soessch 3–2 Kirk Preston United
New Belfast Warriors 1–2 Kings Park

There were signs that Conellians may be on the verge of reeling Handon United in this weekend, as the Eagles fought their way to a 2-0 away win over La Gorlions. Danu Parc is an infamously hard place to go and get a result, so Reinhard Shale will have been particularly happy with the three points at this crucial moment in time. As you would have expected, the Lions really got in the visitors' faces, with big Fredrick Houben, doing his best to unsettle the midfield three of Irwin, Ünterhausen and Sibučić. Kathryn Kvanderwyk opened the scoring following a delightful dink-pass forward from Irwin, before fellow substitutes, Tsumugi Narita and Georgia Edzill combined to send the latter through on goal to wrap up all three points. With Handon United looking like they may still bottle this one, Cornellians are now the team with the momentum, and the perfect position from which to strike.

After their good start to the season, FC Soessch seem to have dropped of the pace ever so slightly. Barry Gorman's side faced a difficult challenge this weekend, as the took on Kirk Preston at Gannon Park, knowing that this one was a real six-pointer in the race to clinch a Globe Cup spot. The Holy Men had been riding high in the league up until a couple of weeks back, so there was a lot at stake going into this match. The visitors perhaps started the more brightly, with Player of The Year shortlist contenders, Leopoldo Ramirez and Alexander Alan, giving the Soessch defence a workout early on. It was to be the Rote Teufel who took the lead though, as Curian Cort found Groaré Sasca with a sweeping cross. The match flowed back and fourth, but second half goals from David Hughes and Laura Smith helped the home side open up a 3-1 lead. Kirk Preston pulled another back through Ian Long, but with five minutes left on the clock, there was no way back as Ross Killanen's side slumped to another defeat.

There was also a surprise victory for Hollin, one which may perhaps secure their safety for another season. The Belker Boys welcomed Port Patrick United to Linellie, a side who were chasing hard themselves, but it their case for UICA football next season. Things must have looked bleak for Hollin, after Chase Ziegenhorn headed in a Chiyoko Sakuraka cross on 27 minutes. However, the home side got their act together, and goals from Colin Loweson and Nick Man got their noses in front. A powerful Callum Frir header put the Breakers back level with twenty-five minutes still to play, but Fred Dawson popped up in the closing stages to ensure all three points stayed in the Belker Region.

Elsewhere: Lammerton left it very late, with Raquel Naeher's 92nd minute goal earning them the win over NBB. The Warriors threw away an early, lead as they were outplayed in the second half by an on form Kings Park Side. And lastly, Port Sebastian seem to be slipping out of Champions' Cup contention, as the three goals they conceded at home to Port James Athletic proved too much to overcome.

SPL
New Belfast Warriors 1–3 Port Sebastian
Kings Park 1–0 FC Soessch
Kirk Preston United 0–0 Hollin
Port Patrick United 1–2 D'Itille
Dundee 4–1 Hillstreet
New Island 2–0 Soessch 1990
Granton Vale 2–0 New Belfast Blues
Lammerton 0–0 Handon United
Mucusia 2–0 La Gorlions
Cornellians 0–0 Port James Athletic

There were some very odd results churned out this week, as the pressure was no doubt cranked up at the top of the table. In a week were both Handon United and Cornellians choked, stumbling to 0-0 draws, it was to Dundee we had to look for what was a highly impressive win over Hillstreet. Dundee's transformation from yo-yo club to hardy top-half side has been very impressive, with the team having spend the last five seasons hunting down UICA spots rather than looking over their shoulder. The Panners were very impressive in this match, with Heidi "Poor man's Jade Irwin" Spearing running the show for large sections of the first half. The Nepharim had a hand in Wallace Solway's opening goal, before burying one herself from close range. In the second half Hillstreet seemed bereft of any fight, and as goals from Set Horn and Mark Keane whizzed into the net, the writing was very much on the wall for all to see. A consolation-goal from Ashur Ben Hassi, probably the visitors’ best player of the afternoon, was little consolation at all.

Port Sebastian needed three points as they travelled round the coast to Ashley Road to take on a Warriors side who have been on a slump of late. Porty's season is probably now approaching write-off, in terms of where they wanted to be in the title race, but Schottia's rise up the UICA rankings means there is still much to play for with an additional Champions' Cup place. They've not had the best of years, dropping out of the Globe Cup and waving goodbye to manager Jock Sonny. However, Port Sebastian still have some spunk about them, and one thing for sure, their strikers know where the back of the net is. The Whalers really struggled to deal with visitors' attack throughout the match, as their defensive frailties were exposed time after time. Esther Abner was probably the best player on the pitch, and as a right-back, that says something. The Schottia international has had a very strong season, and her movement going forward was a big part of Porty's 3-1 victory.

Where have Kings Park been all season? It seems they are unstoppable at the moment, as their phenomenal run continued with a win at home to FC Soessch. When your luck is in, it's really in, and despite a very strong performance from the visitors, the Royals stuck to their task and ground out a narrow win. David Hughes and Johan Shearer both tested Gerry Ion with excellent strikes in the second half, but the Kings Park keeper held firm. In the end it was a typical poacher's finish from Dejan Corvell that settled matters, and handed his club a 1-0 win.

In other matches: Mucusia got a much needed three points, with an impressive 2-0 home win over La Gorlions, who seem to have switched form books with Kings Park. Lammerton and Handon United played out a nervy and exceptionally dull nil-nil draw at the City Ground - a result that helps neither's cause. And New Island went some way towards salvaging a dismal season - by their recent standards - with a 2-0 win over Soessch 1990.

SPL
Port Sebastian 4–1 Cornellians
Port James Athletic 1–0 Mucusia
La Gorlions 1–2 Lammerton
Handon United 5–4 Granton Vale
New Belfast Blues 1–0 New Island
Soessch 1990 0–1 Dundee
Hillstreet 1–1 Port Patrick United
D'Itille 0–1 Kirk Preston United
Hollin 0–1 Kings Park
FC Soessch 3–2 New Belfast Warriors

Cornellians' failure to finish Handon United off came back to bite them in spectacular fashion this weekend, as a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Port Sebastian saw them surrender their slender lead with only two matches left to play. Porty, as is well noted, have not been at their best this season. However, they seem to have saved the best for last, as they utterly took apart the Eagles at Dyerton Stadium, in what will hopefully be a wake up call. There has always been an animosity borne towards Cornellians from some sections of the Schottic support, following the clubs ascension from the MPL. No keener has that been felt than in working class communities in the north of the capital, and every time the Eagles play there, there is a sense that clubs are out to claim a scalp. Port Sebastian did everything right: they defended high up the pitch, they kept their patience, and they attacked in numbers. The end result was their best win of the season, and one, which saw the Eagles dealt a massive blow.

Things were equally dramatic on the other side of Handon, where Harbour Hill Stadium saw a top verses bottom clash. Granton Vale are perhaps just playing for pride, but putting up such a fight against the Champions' Cup finalists will have certainly restored some of that. The Beachcombers actually looked very good on the attack, and it's probably testament to how good United are going forward that they actually pipped them to the post. The Vale had the home side on the back foot for much of the first half, with John Fyfe in particular, giving the experienced duo of Cottle and Finnan some real problems. Handon United were lucky they had a player like Daniel Dostolok at the sharp end, as the Mercedian striker kept them in the game in the first half, by tuning in literally their only two chances. As the game went on, tired legs began to tell, and the fact that United could bring on Baffour Asante and Jimmy Aytoun made a big difference. In the end, just as it looked like the chance of all three points was running out, up popped Regatta Aspenwood to smash home a Dilon Bánach cross for the winning goal.

Lammerton kept their slender title hopes alive, moving just four points off the top with a 2-1 win over La Gorlions. The Lions seem to have dropped off the pace a little recently, but they were a real force throughout, and really made Lammerton work for all three points. Kaytlyne Victoriane cracked in the opener from a tight angle after fifteen minutes, before a volley from Bonesea's Cephus Hunt levelled the scores. With the match hanging in the balance, La Gorlions' manager, Jago Avelione, was enraged as the referee failed to award a penalty, after Kirsten Gemmill was upended by John van Cleef. In the resulting confusion, Mars Alexanderson burst forward, before intricately playing through Victoriane for her second of the game, and the winning goal.

In other results: Kirk Preston finally got the win they needed to keep themselves in the top six, with a 1-0 victory over D'Itille. New Belfast Blues can be happy with their first season back up, after another good win over New Island. And Dundee continued to finish strongly, with a 1-0 away win over Soessch 1990.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Nine

Player: Elspeth Gelndening -- Lammerton
Five goals in four for the striker, who will be looking to put herself back at the forefront of the Schottia manager's mind ahead of the World Cup. Glendening is looking really strong these days, much more the complete striker than when she was at Port James Athletic.

Young Player: Tiferet Ashbrown -- Kings Park
The youngster has had a very good month in the SPL. She, and right wing counterpart Billy McCorralie, seem to have beefed up a fair bit over the course of the season, as the rapidity of the Royals attack looks to be causing even the best defences in the league problems.

Manager: Raven Cullen -- Kings Park
Two Manager of The Month awards in a row for the former Brenecia Boss, and who could argue? After a start full of ups and downs, she has now got every part of this Royals side pulling their weight, and in the same direction. How she is on the brink of now pulling off UICA football is nothing short of a miracle.

SPL
FC Soessch 0–2 Port Sebastian
New Belfast Warriors 0–0 Hollin
Kings Park 5–2 D'Itille
Kirk Preston United 6–0 Hillstreet
Port Patrick United 3–2 Soessch 1990
Dundee 1–1 New Belfast Blues
New Island 3–2 Handon United
Granton Vale 1–1 La Gorlions
Lammerton 3–6 Port James Athletic
Mucusia 3–1 Cornellians

With the sides at the top of the table continuing to make tough going of it in the closing weeks of the season, we need to look a little further down the league for the best of the action. Kirk Preston now stand on the brink of something quite remarkable, after their 6-0 win over Hillstreet moved them up to sixth in the table, and one game away from Globe Cup football. What is perhaps more remarkable is the fact that the Holy Men have now scored 71 goals this season, with only Cornellians and Port Sebastian tallying more. The team have been on a steep upwards curve since their promotion three years ago, but the signing of Alexander Alan this season seems to have really galvanised them. The winger, who has only previously played in Semarland and The Redvale has been sensational on his return to his home country. Alan scored a brace in this match, as did strike pair John Wylie and Leopoldo Ramirez, in a result which live long in the memory of the team's fans.

Meanwhile, Lammerton passes up a great chance to take the title fight to the last game of the season, as they were hammered by Port James Athletic at home. It's not been a season Athletic fans will remember fondly, where despite playing some good football, they have failed to make in imprint on the UICA places. Perhaps this match will go some way towards healing the wounds, however, as they got one over on former player Elspeth Glendening. The Schottia international did get on the score sheet for Lammerton, but it wasn't nearly good enough as Derick Mason (2), Jack Hobbs, Yunji, Evangeline Querón, and Pepe Edgar all scored for the Seasiders.

Port Sebastian kept their chances of a Champions' Cup football going into the last match of the season, while their opponents, FC Soessch, will need to hold their breath and hope they can capture the final UICA spot then, too. On the back of their mighty victory over Conellians the previous week, Porty looked commanding in this match, as they never really gave their opponents a sniff at goal. While Port Sebastian and their new manager, Nicolas Lars, will be keen to get this season done and dusted, their strong performances in these last few games will give them much hope for the next campaign. In this match, it was to Gloriaxian skipper, Eloisa Purinton, that they looked for inspiration - the influential centre-forward scoring the goals at the key moments, which won them the game.

Elsewhere, going into the final match: Kings Park all but secured a return to UICA football, with five goals against D'Itille. New Belfast Warriors continue to look out of ideas, as they drew 0-0 win Holin. And, a draw for Dundee at home to NBB, saw them perhaps have to give up hope of a clinching a Globe Cup place.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Handon United          37   22   6   9    70   54  +16    72
 2 Cornellians            37   21   7   9   101   71  +30    70
 3 Lammerton              37   19  11   7    69   49  +20    68
 4 Port Sebastian         37   20   6  11    93   69  +24    66
 5 Kings Park             37   19   6  12    64   61   +3    63
 6 Kirk Preston United    37   19   5  13    71   58  +13    62
 7 FC Soessch             37   17   9  11    62   49  +13    60
 8 Port Patrick United    37   15  14   8    68   54  +14    59
 9 Dundee                 37   17   8  12    53   39  +14    59
10 La Gorlions            37   17   7  13    44   40   +4    58
11 New Belfast Warriors   37   16   7  14    56   46  +10    55
12 Port James Athletic    37   14  11  12    65   55  +10    53
13 Mucusia                37   14   7  16    54   62   −8    49
14 New Island             37   13   9  15    57   59   −2    48
15 Hillstreet             37   10  11  16    56   69  −13    41
16 New Belfast Blues      37   10   9  18    42   62  −20    39
17 Hollin                 37    7  12  18    39   63  −24    33
18 Soessch 1990           37    7   5  25    35   65  −30    26
19 D'Itille               37    6   8  23    49   87  −38    26
20 Granton Vale           37    5   6  26    53   89  −36    21

First Division

The first division is essentially settled as we go into the final round of fixtures, with runaway winners, Marionville, having been assured of promotion for the last three matches. 96 goals and only four defeats is a decent result from the team who were expected to stroll to the title. The Old Boys have a couple of handy young players, but tying up loanees, Pearce and Wedderburn, will be top of their wish list for next season. Snubbeak Rock are also guaranteed a return to the top flight, unless something remarkable happens in term of a goal-difference switch. Meanwhile, former WSL teams, Bara Waves (nee Handon Ladies) and West Coast Warriors lie in 3rd and 4th respectively and have also confirmed favourable Play-off draws for themselves. West Holbrookdale and Lammerton City make up the additional places, meaning that it should be a strong Play-off field come the send of the season.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Marionville            37   26   7   4    96   46  +50    85
 2 Snubbeak Rock          37   23   8   6    81   42  +39    77
 3 Bara Waves             37   22   8   7    59   33  +26    74
 4 West Coast Warriors    37   20  10   7    68   45  +23    70
 5 West Holbrookdale      37   21   5  11    68   54  +14    68
 6 Lammerton City         37   18  10   9    62   50  +12    64
 7 Handon North           37   17  10  10    58   57   +1    61
 8 FC Döllar              37   17   8  12    65   50  +15    59
 9 Berwick United         37   16   8  13    57   44  +13    56
10 Central Stars          37   15   7  15    67   59   +8    52
11 Jena VB                37   13  10  14    61   59   +2    49
12 Oak Park Celtic        37   13  10  14    49   52   −3    49
13 Wolbeck                37   13   9  15    59   64   −5    48
14 Toll Cross Academy     37   12  12  13    58   64   −6    48
15 Lammerton Eels         37   10  15  12    52   56   −4    45
16 Lammerton Wonderers    37   10   8  19    51   65  −14    38
17 Stalker Bay            37    9   6  22    56   76  −20    33
18 Bolton Green           37    4   9  24    35   84  −49    21
19 Allous VB              37    4   7  26    42   81  −39    19
20 Baumann VB             37    1   5  31    25   88  −63     8

First Division Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Eight

Player: Andy Fischer -- Central Stars

Young Player: Chris McKinsey -- Snubbeak Rock

Manager: Chris Pilum -- Central Stars

First Division Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Nine

Player: Lara Wedderburn -- Marionvile

Young Player: Laura Carrow -- Marionvile

Manager: Betty Black -- Snubbeak Rock

by **Schottia** » Wed Nov 01, 2017 11:58 am

Matchday Thirty-eight & Awards

SPL
Port Sebastian 0–2 Mucusia
Cornellians 4–4 Lammerton
Port James Athletic 3–1 Granton Vale
La Gorlions 0–0 New Island
Handon United 1–1 Dundee
New Belfast Blues 1–1 Port Patrick United
Soessch 1990 1–1 Kirk Preston United
Hillstreet 1–1 Kings Park
D'Itille 0–0 New Belfast Warriors
Hollin 0–2 FC Soessch

So it wasn't much of a lap of honour for Handon United at Harbour Hill. The Champions were forced to hold their breath for ninety minutes, as Dundee seemed hell bent of wrecking their title-party; with United knowing that they needed a win to prevent a potential Cornellians leap-froging. Despite United starting the match well enough, disaster struck in the 17th minute, as Cosumar U21 cap Sett Horn fired the visitors ahead. You could have heard a pin drop in the national stadium, as Mark Keane whipped the ball across the face of goal for the 20-year-old, Horn, to toe-poke past the keeper at close range. His countryman, Shjegrzh Na'Kefir, was left helpless, with no hope of stopping the strike from point blank range. United looked in serious trouble at this stage, with the tight scoreline in Lochend the only thing giving them hope at half time. After the break, Daniel Dostolok fired just over, and Nataile Adams saw a free kick tipped wide by Ed Lorrey as United searched for an equaliser. Dundee could still mathematically finish sixth, and were understandably holding out for the three points, however, United finally pulled level with fourteen minutes left on the clock. Dostolok retrieved the ball from the net and sprinted towards the centre circle, after he expertly guided Rachel Hellion's cross past Lorrey, but there was to be no late winner for either side.

Cornellians needed a win in order to stand any chance of claiming back their title in the last match of the season. The problem for them lay in the fact that faced Lammerton, who still had Port Sebastian snapping at their heels. Both sides faced-off knowing that only a win would do, if they wanted to achieve their goal, with Lammerton, of course, still hoping to clinch the third Champions' Cup spot. Cornellians battled away hard in the first half, with Sibučić clearly winning the all Cosumarite scrap against Horvat. Despite the home side's early dominance, the teams went up the tunnel at half time with the scores tied at 2-2. Goals from Koromin and Irwin twice gave the Eagles the lead, however, Valaran and Glendening were on hand to peg them back both times. The second half started out in very similar fashion, however as the match wore on, The Hornets started to come slowly back into the match. Valaran and Alexandersson were particularly dangerous for the visitors, as they slowly but surely began to push further up the pitch, and create chances of their own. It seemed inevitable though, that the match would end in a draw, and with goals from Victoriane, Naeher, Kit Kvanderwyk and a second for Koromin. As it was, Cornellians' draw meant that that Handon United retained the SPL title, a feat which will delight their loyal supporters at the end of a decade long title drought.

FC Soessch found themselves in the unusual position of owing thanks to their city rivals, as The Raiders' draw with Kirk Preston United paved the way for their return to the Globe Cup. Soessch knew they had a difficult task ahead of them, as they headed to Hollin for the final fixture of the season, but nothing other than a win would give them any hope of grabbing the last UICA spot. Luckily, the Rote Teufel had Farf attacker, Groaré Sasca, to run the show. Alongside Smith and Dornenberger, Sasca formed part of a central trio for the visitors, who were simply too much for the Belker Boys. Tamika November rose well to bullet home a Sasca corner for one nil, before Smith wrong-footed Colin Loweson to settle matters with curling effort from the edge of the area. Hollin, already assured of survival had little left to play for, and it really showed, with a lacklustre performance. For Soessch, they will hope that they can build on this season, and try to get a little closer to the top three next time round. Another priority will be looking to make an impact in the Globe Cup for the first time.

In other results: Kings Park could only manage a draw, after a late goal from Ashur Ben Hassi (likely his last for Hillstreet) denied them all three points. A double from Derick Mason helped Port James to a 3-1 win over Granton Vale, as they at least ended the season on a high. And a 0-0 draw for New Belfast Warriors meant it was curtains for manager Graeme Collins, after the Whalers somehow slumped down to 12th in the league.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Handon United          38   22   7   9    71   55  +16    73 SPL Champions; Champions Cup
 2 Cornellians            38   21   8   9   105   75  +30    71 Champions Cup
 3 Lammerton              38   19  12   7    73   53  +20    69 Champions Cup Cup Winners' Cup
 4 Port Sebastian         38   20   6  12    93   71  +22    66 Globe Cup
 5 Kings Park             38   19   7  12    65   62   +3    64 Globe Cup 
 6 FC Soessch             38   18   9  11    64   49  +15    63 Globe Cup
 7 Kirk Preston United    38   19   6  13    72   59  +13    63
 8 Port Patrick United    38   15  15   8    69   55  +14    60
 9 Dundee                 38   17   9  12    54   40  +14    60
10 La Gorlions            38   17   8  13    44   40   +4    59
11 Port James Athletic    38   15  11  12    68   56  +12    56
12 New Belfast Warriors   38   16   8  14    56   46  +10    56
13 Mucusia                38   15   7  16    56   62   −6    52
14 New Island             38   13  10  15    57   59   −2    49
15 Hillstreet             38   10  12  16    57   70  −13    42
16 New Belfast Blues      38   10  10  18    43   63  −20    40
17 Hollin                 38    7  12  19    39   65  −26    33
18 Soessch 1990           38    7   6  25    36   66  −30    27 Relegated to division one
19 D'Itille               38    6   9  23    49   87  −38    27 Relegated to division one
20 Granton Vale           38    5   6  27    54   92  −38    21 Relegated to division one

Player of Year:
The main, player, young player, and manager award winners are selected from a long-list of ten, which is created by the responsible members at the SPL committee. The eventual winner is voted for by prominent members of the Schottic footballing community.

1st: JK Cottle -- Handon United

Handon United's highly influential captain and stalwart centre-half, Cottle has been the key stone their monumental season. Strong, stout of heart, and an excellent leader on the pitch, the Bonesea international is undoubtedly one of the best in the business and thoroughly deserved of this award. Cottle puts in consistent performances at the back, week in week out; and on top of that, his aerial threat is worth another ten goals a season. Now that he is the wrong side of thirty, keeping him match-fit is going to be crucial to United's success over the next few years.

2nd: Kathryn Kvanderwyk -- Cornellians

This really was the season when Kathryn Kvanderwyk stepped out from under the shadow of her brother and some of the other household names at Conellians. Unfortunately for the Cosumarite, her side failed to regain their title, but she picked up the golden boot along the way, finally marrying her work rate and effort with some end product. Second to none in terms of stamina and chasing down the loose ball, the striker has become a powerful weapon for the Eagles.

3rd: Natalie Adams -- Handon United

After scooping the top prize last season, Adams has made the list again, as United players dominate the awards this year. This will undoubtedly be remembered as a golden era at the club, and the naturalised Schottian will go down in history as one of its pivotal figures. Adams' range of passing, set-pieces, and goal-scoring ability have made her one of the most formidable players in the SPL in recent years.

4th: Regatta Aspenwood -- Handon United

Aspenwood was United's first big signing this season, after having impressed for Southfell United in the Nepharim second tier. The 24-year-old has adjusted to her new setting, and the pressures that come with playing for a club chasing multiple titles. With her pace, skill, and ingenuity, Aspenwood's unique attacking style has caused huge problems for the SPL defenders all season. Seventeen goals - from a player who is about so much more than her strike tally - is also a very good contribution.

5th: Meghan Hartsdown -- Kings Park

If this competition were based on the last ten matches of the season, then Hartsdown would have scooped the top award easily. The Brenecian has been the beating heart of Kings Park this season, and seems to have really thrived since Raven Cullen took over. Hartsdown plays with a maturity far beyond her years, and it's sometimes hard to believe she is only twenty-two. Based on the playmaker's performances this season, she might be on the move from Lochely Green sooner rather than later.

Long-list: Daniel Dostolok (Handon United), Jade Irwin (Cornellians), Alexander Alan (Kirk Preston United), Elspeth Glendening (Lammerton), Kaytlyne Victoriane (Lammerton)

Golden Boot (Top Scorer):

1st: 36 Kathryn Kvanderwyk -- Cornellians

2nd: 28 Eloisa Purinton -- Port Sebastian

3rd: 25 Kaytlyne Victoriane -- Lammerton

| Daniel Dostalok -- Handon United

5th: 24 Leopoldo Ramirez -- Kirk Preston United

6th: 22 Elspeth Glendenning -- Port James Athletic

| Kel Koromin -- Cornellians

8th: 21: Chase Ziegenhorn -- Port Patrick United

9th: 18: David Hughes -- Dundee

| Regatta Aspenwood -- Handon United

| Jessica Grey -- Soessch 1990

Scorers below equal tenth not listed

Young Player of The Year:
1st: Dilon Bánach -- Handon United

Bánach edges the battle between two superb young female footballers, pipping Cornellians' Sibučić to lift the award. Back to back league titles, Champions' Cup final, and an important player for Schottia all by the age of twenty. Bánach is a complete midfielder in the making, with all the strength, pace, and technical ability you would expect from a top class player. The fact that she is a home grown talent, whom they have brought through the academy system, clearly matters to United, and they are very keen to keep a hold of her.

2nd: Isla Sibučić -- Cornellians

The 19-year-old has had a breathtaking season, since breaking into the Eagles first team and finally holding down a place. The club have given Sibučić time to develop, bringing her through slowing, and that seems to have paid off for them. The Cosumarite has been knocking on the door of the first team since the age of sixteen, but her patience has finally been rewarded. The Cosumarite press seem to be quite enamoured with the girl from Fevelo, and with her incredible technical talent, it is very easy to see why.

3rd: Louis Hordern -- Handon United

Most likely Schottia's next right-back, Hordern is another youngster who has become a key player at Harbour Hill under Jane Gullie. The cool, calm and collected defender has been extremely consistent throughout the season, while adding to his fledgling caps tally in the process. Along with Bánach, his arrival on the scene shows that all is well in United's current youth production system.

4th: Ed Lorrey -- Dundee

This outstanding young keeper has been breaking all records in the SPL this season. For an 18-year-old, to be putting in these sorts of performances it is nothing short of incredible. He has all the attributes you would expect from one of the top goalkeepers in the league; and stat wise, he has already performed far better than many of the league's seasoned internationalists.

5th: Nova Kymeri -- New Island

Kymeri's fantastic season probably slipped under the radar slightly, as a result of New Island's poor run in the league. The versatile Cenian has looked mature and composed however; and whether it's as a holding midfielder, or terrorising opposition right-backs, she has been very effective. She is a big player for the Pebbles right now, and they are going to need to be careful that their prize asset doesn't follow Grant Carlin and Holly Addison to pastures greener during the window.

Long-list: Keeva Crowe (Port Sebastian) Tiferet Ashbrown (Kings Park) Colin Loweson (Hollin) Whitney Kelly (Port Patrick United) Chase Ziegenhorn (Port Patrick United)

Manger of The Year:
1st: Jane Gullie -- Handon United

There were a few sides who really shone this season, many of them against the odds. However, getting to two major finals, while retaining the league title means the award has to go to Jane Gullie and Handon United. The former Schottia boss didn't just stand still in the transfer window, she brought in the kind of players who have helped her build on her success, and really take the team to the next level.

2nd: Raven Cullen -- Kings Park

A season of two halves for the Brenecian, and her very promising side. Kings Park were rewarded for positive and dynamic play throughout, with a strong run in. Fifth place, Globe Cup finish, and right in the mix, is a fantastic result for a club who have been languishing mid-table for the best part of decade. Cullen has also brought in a few very high calibre players in the form of Ashbrown, Hanlon, and Paterson. Providing they can keep a hold of their stars over the summer, the Roylas should be a force next season.

3rd: Ross Killanen -- Kirk Preston United

Just getting his nose ahead of Johnny Smith, Ross Killanen will be the somewhat surprise recipient of this award. Kirk Preston were fantastic throughout the middle section of the season, as their players - the majority of whom were recruited on frees - only just missed out on sixth spot. The father of Schottia stars, Eoin and Molly, is ill-used to the limelight, but his no nonsense tactics and old fashioned 4-4-2 formation, were certainly effective, even against the biggest sides in the league.

Signing of The Year:
This is awarded to the incoming player who made the biggest impact relative to price, profile, and reputation.

Alexander Alan -- Kirk Preston United

Sporting Avargia. Free.
For a player who has never played in Schottia in her profecional career, Alan seemed to take to it like a duck to water. Picked up on a free following the collapse of the once promising Redvali league, he turned out to be an excellent acquisition.

Team of The Year:
Differently to the player of the year awards, the official team of the year is voted for by the Schottic public. This is why the players can differ from those selected for the official awards, and normally come from the teams with the larger support bases.

GK= Ed Lorrey
DEF= Hordern - Ramsey - Cottle - November
MID= Adams - Irwin - Bánach
FOR= Purinton - Ka.Kvanderwyk - Victoriane

Schottic Cup -- Final @ Duke Street Stadium

Handon United 2-3 Lammerton
Scorers: 11" Dostolok, 51" Lovenkrands; 3" Victoriane, 45" Valaran, 75" Alexandersson

MOTM: Jasper Valaran

Schottic Football's showpiece event promised to be good one this year, with League Champions, Handon United, taking on third place finishers, Lammerton. The final was played at Duke Street Stadium this year, as is always the case when Handon United reach the final, meaning that they forgo home advantage. Handon United would go into the game as favourites, having had a superb season, however the form Lammerton have been in, since Johnny Smith took charge, will have given the fans some cause for optimism. If there was reason for Hornets fans to be hopeful before the match, there was even more three minutes in, after Victoriane rounded Na'Kefir to score, following a defensive mix up. Handon United responded well though, and the ever-dangerous Mercedinian, Dostolok, squared the tie with a neat finish just ten minutes later. One might have thought United would strike on from there, but it was Lammerton who grabbed the impetus, with man of the match, Valaran, scoring a wonderful solo goal just before the break. The match was impossible to call as the second half got underway, with both sides creating chances in the opening few minutes. A cross-field pass from Jayden Fox to Rachel Hellion, allowed the latter to play in Christian Lovenkrands to level the game. The powerful Semar tore free of Luke Svensson before scoring with a low finish into the bottom corner of Jim Black's goal. Both sides were pressing hard for the winning goal, but it was to be Lammerton, who upset the odds by lifting the Schottic Cup for the first time in the UICA era. Valaran's ball forward to Glendening was expertly held up, before the Schottia striker laid it off for Alexandersson to apply the finish. The win was the signal for the partying to break out back in Lammerton, with the Hornets fans now filled with optimism for the season ahead.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Grand-Final @ Crowley Memorial Stadium, Ramusok, Cosumar
New Belfast Blues 1–1 San Diego Iguanas (COM) (1–1 FT · 4–2 pen)

The Schottia league system captured it's first ever UICA trophy this season, as New Belfast Blues battled their way to the Series B Champions' Cup. Bruno Schwartz's side got over some early difficulties this season to finish very strongly on forty points. The addition of another trophy in their cabinet will be yet another bonus, as they look to get back to glory days in the top flight. In a dramatic final at the Crowley Memorial Stadium in Cosumar, NBB defeated San Diego Iguanas on penalties after a tense 120 minutes of football.

Champions' Cup -- Grand-Final @ Lonngeylin Coliseum, Lonngeylin, Vilita
(CEN) 1860 Azoth 1-0 Handon United

So it all came to this, Handon United's day in the sun. United sold out their entire allocation for the 115,000 seater Lonngeylin Coliseum, meaning that the Vilitans must have been nearly overrun, as Schottians flooded in to watch what they hoped would be their team's finest hour. With a combination of skill, luck, and lots and lots of money, United have turned their fortunes around. Just as it began to look as if they were doomed to fade into obscurity during the UICA era of Schottic football, up popped Jane Gullie with a massive transfer budget to turn them around. Players such as JK Cottle, Natalie Adams, and Regatta Aspenwood had been pivotal in getting them here, and they were going to need to be called upon one last time for this final push.

Their opponents, 1860 Azoth, were also first time finalists, giving the Champions' Cup a somewhat unfamiliar flavour. Hailing from Ceni, the club had also beaten the odds (along with some stiff opposition) to make it this far. Schottia and Ceni are two nations who seem to have risen side by side through Multiverse football, both domestically and internationally, and it perhaps seemed fitting that they met like this. Until recently United had Cenian keeper, Jacrian Ryaden, between the sticks, and Azoth boasted two Schottians in their line up in the form of Grant Carlin, and national team vice-captain, Larry Watt.

Despite the lack of goals, there was no shortage of entertainment, with both teams creating plenty of chances. In attack we saw a bit of a battle between two young Mercedinians, Ben Chillotov and Daniel Dostolok causing problems at both ends. Ultimately it was the former who prevailed, with Chilotov scoring the only goal of the game for Azoth, and ending the dreams of the 50,000 or so Handon United fans.

First Division Final Matchday & Awards

Bolton Green 0–3 Bara Waves
Central Stars 3–3 Jena VB
West Holbrookdale 1–2 Lammerton Eels
Baumann VB 2–5 FC Döllar
Toll Cross Academy 1–0 Lammerton Wonderers
Lammerton City 0–1 West Coast Warriors
Berwick United 0–0 Snubbeak Rock
Oak Park Celtic 1–5 Marionville
Handon North 3–0 Allous VB
Wolbeck 0–3 Stalker Bay

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Marionville            38   27   7   4   101   47  +54    88 Champions 
 2 Snubbeak Rock          38   23   9   6    81   42  +39    78 Promoted
 3 Bara Waves             38   23   8   7    62   33  +29    77 Promoted via Play-offs
 4 West Coast Warriors    38   21  10   7    69   45  +24    73
 5 West Holbrookdale      38   21   5  12    69   56  +13    68
 6 Lammerton City         38   18  10  10    62   51  +11    64
 7 Handon North           38   18  10  10    61   57   +4    64
 8 FC Döllar              38   18   8  12    70   52  +18    62
 9 Berwick United         38   16   9  13    57   44  +13    57
10 Central Stars          38   15   8  15    70   62   +8    53
11 Toll Cross Academy     38   13  12  13    59   64   −5    51
12 Jena VB                38   13  11  14    64   62   +2    50
13 Oak Park Celtic        38   13  10  15    50   57   −7    49
14 Lammerton Eels         38   11  15  12    54   57   −3    48
15 Wolbeck                38   13   9  16    59   67   −8    48
16 Lammerton Wonderers    38   10   8  20    51   66  −15    38
17 Stalker Bay            38   10   6  22    59   76  −17    36
18 Bolton Green           38    4   9  25    35   87  −52    21 Relegated to division two
19 Allous VB              38    4   7  27    42   84  −42    19 Relegated to division two
20 Baumann VB             38    1   5  32    27   93  −66     8 Relegated to division two

Play-off Semi-finals:

Bara Waves 1–0 Lammerton City
West Coast Warriors 0–2 West Holbrookdale

It had been a remarkable season for the Bara Waves, finishing third in the league, just a point behind The Rock. However it would count for nothing if they were unable to defeat Lammerton City in the first Play-off semi-final. The Waves have been solid all season, with former Lääne Rovers midfielder, Ella Grear, destroying all in her path. This stood them in good stead for what was a very tight match with little in the way of chances. The game was settled on the hour mark, as Eastfielder, Sarina Neville, whipped the ball across the face of goal for big striker, Ouissal Tahar, to turn in for the only goal of the game.

West Coast Warriors are one of the most exciting sides in the country right now, let alone the First Division. So, as they took on West Holbrookdale - another side who aren't exactly shy in front of goal - we were looking forward to what promised to be a real classic play-off tie. However, with Melas injured, it wasn't the same Warriors team we were used to, and their lack of cutting edge cost them dearly. The Dale, on the other hand, battled hard and took the chances which came their way, with Robbie McSuol and Handon United loanee, Mirka Shitakuari each scoring in the second half, to send them through to the final.

Play-off Semi-finals:
Bara Waves 3–1 West Holbrookdale

For Bara Waves, it was a case of standing on the brink of history; while for West Holbrookdale, they had that familiar feeling of winning through to the final, only to hope that this would be their year. For a match that promised so much, it was depressingly one-sided, with Mike Weber and Margaret Lennox rock solid at the back. In attack, the Waves took their chances too, with Abigail Teris (2), and Louise Crost scoring the goals, which secured SPL football for next season. The Handon side are going to have some problems to overcome before the end of the summer, most notably, finding a new stadium, which meets the minimum requirements. While they have played well this season, they are also going to need four or five new players if they are going to have any chance of staying up; meaning they will need to make some tough decisions as to who stays and who goes.

First Division Player of Year:
Lara Wedderburn -- Marionville

First Division Golden Boot:
Lara Wedderburn -- Marionville

(36 goals)

First Division Young Player of Year:
Chris McKinsey -- Snubbeak Rock

First Division Manager of Year:
Jane Swanson -- Bara Waves

First Division Team of Year:

GK: Joanna Kytee
DEF: Pablo Altamirano - Dawn Morham - Mike Weber - Alexander Pearce
MID: Laura Carrow - Robbie McSuol - Antonia Aktar
FOR: Livia Hassenthaler - Lara Wedderburn - Chris McKinsey

Second Division - Third Tier
First and second placed sides, along with the winners of the play-offs, gain promotion to the First Division. The bottom three sides are relegated to the regional divisions.

.                                Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Lochend Town                   38   23   8   7    68   38  +30    77 Champions
 2 Regional Development Side A    38   22  10   6    61   38  +23    76
 3 Redional Development Side D    38   22   6  10    63   50  +13    72
 4 University of Handon           38   19   8  11    47   35  +12    65 Promoted
 5 Marionville Thistle            38   17  12   9    51   35  +16    63 Promoted via the Play-off
 6 Oxlaey Court                   38   13  17   8    49   40   +9    56
 7 Anacy                          38   16   6  16    53   50   +3    54
 8 Regional Development Side B    38   16   5  17    58   58    0    53
 9 Soessch Mountaineers           38   15   8  15    48   50   −2    53
10 Dundee Rovers                  38   14   9  15    54   52   +2    51
11 Soessch Red Star               38   14   7  17    60   61   −1    49
12 Huntley Hunters                38   11  15  12    48   51   −3    48
13 Regional Development Side C    38   11  14  13    51   53   −2    47
14 New Town Thistle               38   11  13  14    51   51    0    46
15 Coldstream Farmers Union       38    9  16  13    46   53   −7    43
16 Adelly Road                    38   12   7  19    51   69  −18    43
17 Port Newtown                   38    8  16  14    43   50   −7    40
18 Port James                     38    8  14  16    42   58  −16    38 Relegated to regional divisions
19 Gateney                        38    8   8  22    38   66  −28    32 Relegated to regional divisions
20 Belker Crest                   38    7   9  22    32   56  −24    30 Relegated to regional divisions

Play-Offs: Semi Final
Marionville Thistle 1-0 Soessch Mountaineers @Ashley Road Stadium
Oxlaey Court 2-0 Anacy @Gannon Park

Play-Offs: Final
Marionville Thistle 3-2 Oxlaey Court @Harbour Hill Stadium

Second Division, Player of The Year:
1st: Mark Anannd, Lochend Town

2nd: Gabriel Fently, Regional Development Side A

3rd: Anna Couper, University of Handon

Golden Boot: Mark Anannd, Lochend Town

(22 goals)

Youth Football - Junior Championship

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cornellians                   30   16   8   6    61   43  +18    56 Champions
 2 Handon United                 30   16   8   6    48   31  +17    56
 3 FC Soessch                    30   15   8   7    38   26  +12    53
 4 Bara Waves                    30   14   8   8    49   36  +13    50
 5 Lammerton                     30   13   9   8    41   31  +10    48
 6 Regional Development Side D   30   12   9   9    36   26  +10    45
 7 La Gorlions                   30   13   5  12    34   39   −5    44
 8 Regional Development Side B   30   13   3  14    40   42   −2    42
 9 Port Sebastian                30   12   5  13    49   44   +5    41
10 New Belfast Warriors          30   11   8  11    33   33    0    41
11 Marionville                   30   10   8  12    39   39    0    38
12 Kings Park                    30    9   9  12    37   39   −2    36
13 Port James Athletic           30    7  14   9    33   42   −9    35
14 Dundee                        30    7   6  17    32   49  −17    27
15 Regional Development Side C   30    6   7  17    29   49  −20    25
16 Regional Development Side A   30    5   7  18    29   59  −30    22

Junior Championship, Player of The Year:
1st: Jimmy Ayton, Handon United

2nd: Thomas Still, Cornellians

3rd: Marina Raburne, Bara Waves

by **Schottia** » Wed Jan 03, 2018 2:43 am

2027-28

Preview
-Part One-

Playing squads for the upcoming season, with provisional starting eleven, and notable reserves. (Please note that many of the players named as substitutes are part of rotations systems, and are used regularly.) Clubs listed in no particular order. Second nationalities in parentheses.

Cornellians got the overhaul they badly needed, as Reinhard Shale finally made his mark on the playing squad in a meaningful way. Second place in the league just isn't good enough for the side that have utterly dominated in the UICA era of SPL football, and they will need to be careful that this isn't the start of a rut. It can't be easy trying to improve on such a polished squad of players, but having been successful with all three of his main summer targets, it looks like the manager might have brought that freshness the side badly needed. Eight million girl, Dragora Steelhenge, is a massive capture for the Eagles, who will now look to make her the centrepiece of their defence. The Nepharim cap is still only twenty-two, and she has a bit more star quality about her that Stephen Gargo, whom she replaces. Buyanese international, Emil Eklund, is another player the club beat of stiff competition to sign, and may even prove to be bargain at ten million. The Bengtsmark IF forward is a proven winner, a tried and tested goal scorer at UICA level; and looks like someone who can raise their game further. Harry Gould, not just content with replacing Jermey McNott in the national team, has now taken the number one jersey from him at Cornellians too. Gould, who joins from FC Soessch, is younger, keener, and hopefully more reliable than his predecessor. Shale also picked up Granton Vale youngster, John Fyfe, who impressed last season despite the side going down. He probably won't start all too often, but the 20-year-old is a good level of substitute.

Although Cornellians have had their problems over the last eighteen months, finding the back of the net hasn't been one of them. The Lochend side scored an earth-shattering 105 goals last season, and had their defence not resembled a broken colander, it would have likely been enough to get them over the line. Kathryn Kvanderwyk was a massive factor in that goal rush, with the Cosumarite netting 36 league goals to take home the golden boot. It's all the more remarkable given the fact that Kvanderwyk is more of a provider than an out-and-out poacher. This season the tireless grafter will be joined by new boy Emil Eklund. The Buyanese is going to be under pressure to perform, given the fact that the club sold Kel Koromin to make way for him to come in. On the bench, the Eagles will look to young John Fyfe to provide cover, but it's unlikely he will be rushed through. In midfield Shale has one of those good headaches, but it is a headache all the same. Isla Sibučić burst into the first team last season, putting in a string of incredible performances, and showing a maturity that betrayed her tender years. Whether it's as a second striker, or in the attacking midfield, the Cosumar international has a lightness of touch and quickness of feet, which are only matched by her eye for goal. When you consider that the Eagles also have number-ten, Jade Irwin, it's easy to see how the club managed to score over a hundred goals. The Nepharim playmaker came to the SPL with absolutely nothing, but has now established herself as one of the best players in the league. An imaginative, clinical, and creative force, the former La Gorlions star is also worth fifteen goals a season. She will probably play just behind Sibučić in what looks like a staggered midfield line up that will likely see a lot of overlapping. Kathryn's elder brother, Kit, will provide some much needed width and crossing capability to the midfield. Another Cosumar international, Kit has been on hot form over the past few years. Don't expect any lung bursting runs from this guy, he is slow and steady, using his wits to get past his opponents before launching the killer pass. Johannas Ünterhausen will act as the anchor, and the Schottia international will be called upon to do a lot of the donkey work. He was hired to do just that, of course, and this should be a role he excels in. On the bench, Mershawn Mercury and Tsumugi Narita are a frankly ridiculous level of substitute, and show just how strong Cornellians are this season. Echani, Mercury, is a lightning quick winger, who can turn the game in the blink of an eye, so expect him to feature in some capacity in most matches. Tsumugi, on the other hand, is a deep sitting playmaker, who has some real quality about her. Steelhenge will be the player who grabs the attention in defence, partnering the highly promising Pasargan, Christian Berg, at centre back. The Eagles have invested a lot in Berg, bringing him through from the age of sixteen, and this powerful defender is one of the first players to make it through the youth system in one piece. In a very Nepharim flavoured back four, former Chatswood hard-man, Maeon Vlahos, also has a couple of caps to his name at right-back, and brings a real presence to the side. While left-back Triffid Ramsey is an Iskandervale international, she is also daughter of the late manager, Gethin. Club captain, Ramsey, also took a step closer to following in her father's footsteps this year, after being promoted to player coach. Gould completes the line up, and at seven million, he is Schottia's most expensive goalkeeper. He might not have the reflexes of McNott, but he is reliable, and very dependable.

Prediction: 1st. Cornellians have the better squad, but Handon United have all the momentum - take your pick.

Star player: Isla Sibučić | Rising Star: Dragora Steelhenge

International Competition This Season: Champions' Cup

The way Jane Gullie has worked her magic on Handon United, in three and a half season, is quite incredible. The all-time record holders in terms of SPL titles hadn't adjusted well to the UICA era, and during Carl Sorensen's ill-fated reign, it looked as if the team were in freefall. Back-to-back titles and a run to the Champions Cup later, however, they are back exactly where they see themselves; at the top of the pile. United probably don't have the same budget as Cornellians these days, but they do have a prolific youth system and a manager who seems to have a knack for playing the transfer market. That said, it's hard to see where Gullie could have improved this season: Finnan and Cottle are both the wrong side of thirty, but neither centre-back has put a foot wrong in the last twelve months, and would take a brave woman to break them up. Ten million Equestrian, Brix Hamilton, is the marquee signing at left-back, and former the Champions' Cup winner has no doubt been brought for that very reason, as much as her on field exploits. Apoxian, Magdalen Demetrius, is also a potentially shrewd acquisition. The 20-year-old captained the Boney branch office of her nation's Centre of Excellence, and has the potential to be quality winger. Audioslavian teenager, Wilbur Hoogerwerf-Sund completes the summer signings, but the young man of redoubtable talent may need to be content with a seat on the bench this season.

At the arrowhead of United's three-person forward line is Mercedinian, Daniel Dostalok. The 23-year-old managed 25 league goals last season, and is finally thriving in the loan striker role. On the left side of attack, Regatta Aspenwood had a phenomenal debut season after joining from Southfell United, and along with Dostalok, they constituted the main goal threat for United. On the right, there might be a bit of competition between Semarland cap, Christian Lovenkrands, and new girl, Demetrius. Loverkrands has traditionally been one of the teams better players, but he didn't quite reach his usual rampaging best last season, and may find himself under pressure. Former Redvali beanpole, Hiroyo Nunez, is the name that stands out on the bench, and she will likely get her chances. Solomon Johnson is also promoted from the youth side, and it will be interesting to see how the player who has drawn comparisons to a young Gaston Avelione might do if given a run out. United's three central midfielders each bring something very different to the team. Natalie Adams is the playmaker, the creative spark and one they look to for that killer ball. The former Mucusia player won her first Schottia caps during this last cycle, having qualified for Schottic citizenship. Alongside her, SPL young player of the year, Dilon Bánach, is a bustling, aggressive, typical Schottic midfielder, who also knows how to find the back of the net. Chromatik, Rachel Hellion, is the more defensive minded of the three, and acts as the water carrier that all good side's need. That's not to say she can't come up with the goods however, and in Hellion and Adams, United have two excellent set-piece takers. Baffour Asante gets his bum of bench a fair bit, and the Semar represents a more heavyweight option when the team are in a pickle. The Handon United defence stood up pretty well last season, even in some of the higher-pressure UICA matches. Club captain, JK Cottle, was like a brick wall at the back, and his partnership with former Brinemouth centre-half, Lukas Finnan, was a marriage made in heaven. Louis Hordern is already a fully-fledged Schottia international at the age of 21, and as right-backs go, already has all the attributes to be a top star. Equestrian, Brix Hamilton, is new to the squad, but you would imagine a woman with her experience will slot in without any great issue. Between the sticks, Shjegrzh Na'Kefir looked like a pretty darn decent young keeper last season, and his call up to the Cosumar squad underlines that. John Hare did well on loan at Blue Coast last season, and will be first reserve at centre and left-back. Mana Satō has Kirisaki caps to her name, and Hoogerwerf-Sund might be another useful option if the team encounter injuries.

Prediction: 2nd. This is a straight shootout between United and Cornellians. Three in a row would be a phenomenal feat, but it's most certainly possible.

International Competition This Season: Champions Cup.

Star Player: JK Cottle | Rising Star: Dilon Bànach

Nikolas Lars has had a bit of a mixed off-season, in what was his first transfer window in charge. The former youth boss made his reputation with the Regional Development programme, so this side of management was always going to be something a little new to him. We can perhaps then chalk it down to inexperience, that bids for Corinne Matel-Burns and Nova Kymeri were left hanging too long and inevitably fell through. Lars has also presided over the club's biggest clear out in the UICA era, with the likes of Bia, Leonard, Kirkland, and Traore all heading for the exit door. Porty's first summer signing was right winger, Alexander Alan, who made a massive impact at Kirk Preston last season, earning his first Schottia cap in the process. Colin Arkwright and David Monks soon followed suit, both of whom having worked with Lars in the national academy set-up. Furthermore, with the arrival of the hugely experienced Roisin Carroll, the fans would have been growing in optimism, as the Nepharim left-winger should more than cut it in the SPL. Hollin captain Colin Loweson was brought in as time ran out, after Kymeri opted to return to her native Ceni. On the face of it the Schottia U21 captain looks like a sound replacement, but does it lack ambition from Porty. Heron Kendall was a deadline day shoehorn job, after bids for Martel-Burns and Estrella Hawke broke down in quick succession. Seven million was perhaps more that Lars would have wanted to ply for an (then) uncapped 24-year-old already at her fourth club - only time will tell.

The sale of Demba Traore - a reliable goals scorer, if not a world-beater - could be the rock Lars perishes on, should Kendall fail to cut the mustard. Despite her considerable talent, the Nepharim striker isn't only at her fourth club, but also now playing in her fourth country, which may or may not be bad thing. She will of course partner club captain, Eloise Purinton in the attack. The Gloriaxian, who has also taken on a coaching role this season, has probably been denied her place amongst the truly great strikers in the world, due to her country's long civil war. The phenomenal young talent that is Keeva Crowe will be an important option on the bench for Porty; and her inclusion on the Galactico's youth shortlist underlines her potential. Schottia international and former Dundee girl, Vera Cummings, will be expected to be the beating heart of this side in the centre of midfield. Now at the age of 29, it's unlikely she is ever going to live up to her early potential, but she's big player at SPL level. Alongside her, 21-year-old Colin Loweson should be able to hit the ground running, with five years of SPL experience at Hollin under his belt. Right-winger, Alexander Alan, is a player Porty will be hoping for a lot from. He was outstanding for Kirk Preston last season, and if he can repeat that, there is every chance he could be a match winner for the club. On the left, subtle, floating winger, Roisin Carroll, has over a hundred caps to her name, and between her and Alan, you would imagine Porty have the wide areas covered. Fresh from a season on loan at Christopheran Porty, Richard Geddes could also be a useful impact sub, in a league where the quality of reserves may make all the difference. Altogether, the Port Sebastian defence looks pretty strong on paper, and in the centre, Joon Ho Hwang is the one who really stands out. A former Quebec internationalist, and former SPL player of the year, he will have an important role in mentoring young Erwin MacNeil. MacNeil comes from the Porty youth system, and the big centre-half will really need to live up to his billing if Porty are going to have a chance of challenging for the title. Right-back, Esther Abner, is a decorated Schottia star, and very solid in that role. Good defensively, good going forward, the Handon side have no issue there. On the opposite flank is Schottia number-three, Paul Doig, who is exceptionally steady, as opposed to just exceptional. The big thing that the former Galactico's XI star does have, however, is his long throw, a formidable weapon in the side's arsenal. Twenty-three year old Boney, MG Grumbla, has been first choice keeper for a few season now, and seems to be properly settled at the back.

Prediction: 4th. Porty are one of the teams in with a shot, for sure, but they don't have anywhere near the wage budget of the top-two. They are perhaps even with Lammerton - player for player - but the Hornets have the more settled squad.

International Competition This Season: Globe Cup

Star Player: Eloisa Purinton | Rising Star: Colin Loweson

Lammerton's season was a story of two halves last time round, with the team going on a huge unbeaten run in the middle third, to claw their way back into the Champions' Cup spots. The side's poor start to the season meant that we were forced to say farewell to John Sedder, one of the league's longest standing manager, with young boss, Johnny Smith arriving from Dundee. Under Smith the Hornets seem to be on the way up, and they have a squad of players that could potentially put Cornellians and United under pressure. Smith bring with him teen goal keeping sensation Ed Lorrey, a player whom he mentored at Dundee and helped win a call up to the Schottia NT. Three and a half million is a lot to spend on a teenager, and underlines the young man's potential. For the most part, Lammerton look set to go with the squad of players that finished last season strongly, with Farf right-back, Ezequiel Marchiondo, their only other summer signing. The fiery 18-year-old was shortlisted for the Galactico's youth player of the year award and has been touted as a future internationalist.

Smith hasn't really brought in anyone in attack, but to be fair, it would take a lot of money to improve the current forward line. Schottia squad player, Elspeth Glendening, is the central prong of what looks like a front three, alongside Chromatik, Kaytlyne Victoriane, and Nephara's Raquel Naeher. All three performed well last season, and each has international caps to their name. The versatile Victoriane, in particular, has been making big waves with Chromatika, and she scored an impressive 25 goals from a supporting role last season. Graham Petrie is also promoted to the senior squad this season, and the tricky teenager will be looking to make his mark. Last season it was hard to tell exactly what formation Lammerton were playing sometimes. However, with Smith settling on a 4-3-3, it looks more as if Mars Alexandersson will be asked to play as a conventional midfielder. The Western Sunrise born playmaker recently won her first cap for Schottia, having lived here for seven years. Alexandersson is razor sharp passer and shooter, and has a penchant for attempting the audacious. You can see what Lammerton are going for here, with Jasper Valaran playing alongside Alexandersson giving the team the kind of passing ability they will need to make the most of their pacey front line. Valaran is an established Cenian international, and a big player for the club. With two playmakers in a midfield of three, it's important to have someone who can anchor things down. Luckily Smith has the hugely underrated Robard Horvat, who specialises in the bread and butter stuff, allowing those around him the freedom to roam. Horvat seems to now be getting some international recognition, which will do the big man's confidence a power of good. In defence, centre-back John van Cleef is now starting to come of age. Another versatile player, Van Cleef has played a variety of positions for Schottia at youth level, and is perhaps on the verge of a senior call up. Alongside him, Menhennick Goff can also play in defensive midfield, meaning that the Hornets have a defence who are all comfortable playing the ball out of danger. Left-back, Luke Svensson, is another player who has recently received international recognition, and the Llamian has been a very steady player at club level for a number of years. Marchiondo, at right-back, could be one to watch, and there will be many fans glued to their seats waiting to see if this young man can deliver on the hype. It's a similar story with Lorrey in goals. The 19-year-old is already tipped as a future Schottia number one, but we will need to wait and see if this step is perhaps too big, too soon.

Prediction: 3rd. Lammerton have been a good side right the way through the UICA era of Schottic football, but Johnny Smith's arrival seems to have given them a fresh impetus. They could conceivably lift the title, but it does seem like the top-two are pulling away, especially in terms of strength in depth.

Star player: Kaytlyne Victoriane | Rising Star: Ezequiel Marchiondo

International Competition This Season: Champions' Cup | Cup Winners' Cup

While there were some in the media predicting they would finish higher, sixth place was still a good result for the team from the North Island. They have been solid, top-third of the table big hitters since Barry Gorman took over as manager, but it sometimes feels as if they have hit a bit of a glass ceiling. In terms of recourses and managerial acumen, there is nothing separating them from Lammerton and Porty, yet Die rote Teufel somehow always seem to find themselves finishing behind their rivals. The biggest blow to the side this season will come from the sale of prise asset, and Schottia number-one, Harry Gould. Jim Black has been brought in as his replacement, however there is a worry that he won't be up to the same high standard. Despite the fact that the club's only other summer signing was 16-year-old right-back, Zsofika Seboôk, Soessch still have eleven very good players, and there seems little danger of them slipping too far back.

At 29, it looks like David Hughes might be running out of time in his bid to pull on a Schottia strip. The former Handon United and Dundee striker could well be the best Schottian never to win a cap for his country, as Lionel Mah has continually turned a blind eye to this old-school number-nine. Supporting Hughes in attack, and providing the bullets, is Farfidillis cap Groaré Sasca. Gorman reportedly forked out a lot of money to secure the 26-year-old's signature, and he had an impressive first season in Schottic football. Teenager, James Inescourt, will provide the cover in the advances role. The central midfield pairing of Laura Smith and Kerstin Dornenberger more than held their own last season, with this little and large partnership bringing a variety of talents. Both have represented Schottia at some level or other, and Soessch are definitely not found lacking in this department. Johan Shearer is your straightforward right-winger, and a Nepharim Project +90 graduate. With a big striker like Hughes in the box, Shearer's crosses are a vital ingredient in the Soessch attack. On the other wing, the vastly experienced Currian Cort is the more likely of the two to cut in and have a crack on goal himself. The Boney was one of the first of his countrymen to turn professional, and has been at the club for a number of years now. On the bench, Stephan Kraus can player either left or centre, and the 21-year-old has been capped for Schottia at U21 level. FC Soessch have always been strongest at the back, and with their solid back line, it will be hoped that Gould's departure doesn't affect them too badly. Ben Ross and Tamika November are considered one of the best central defences in the league, and the former has represented Schottia at all levels. November, on the other hand, has played for Nephara U21, and had a brief stint in Chromatika. Temasso Tenebrosa is another player with international experience, although he might be a little past his prime. The right-back has played for Cosumar before, but nothing too recent. The jury is perhaps still out on Alexi Ceanadach though. The left back certainly didn't disgrace herself last season, and looked quite effective getting forward down the left flank, however, at 21 it might be a little too soon to tell. Lastly, Jim Black as big gloves to fill, however this is a fantastic opportunity for the former Hornets man, and one he is more than capable of grabbing.

Prediction: 6th. Sixth seems fair, and the fans would probably take it. If they get off to a good start there is nothing to stop them inserting themselves in the title race, but it's going to take a lot from this set of players.

International Competition This Season: Globe Cup

Star Player: Groaré Sasca | Rising Star: Alexi Ceanadach

Last season was a disaster for the Warriors, as total collapse saw them crash to twelfth in the table. The club's worst finish in about sixty years promptly saw manager Graeme Collins sacked, with New Island boss, Judy Scott, brought in to steady the ship. The Whalers have an excellent pedigree in the SPL, but the UICA era has seen them increasingly struggle to keep pace with the other sides at the top. While the fans possibly haven't witnessed the wholesale clearout they might have liked, changes have been made, and we will need to wait and see what affect they have. With sixty Schottia caps to his name, Joey Bia is the name that stands out amongst the new recruits. The 29-year-old had been a one club man with Port Sebastian, and this is now a big step for him, as he looks to revitalise his career. Right-back, Simon Johnson, has been a very important player for Hillstreet since their recent return to the SPL, and the 26-year-old is another signing with the ability to really step up. Finally, Cosumarite youngster, JayRay Cranleigh, has been brought in to help plug what has been a leaky defence. The 21-year-old joins on a free, and may well prove to be Judy Scott's best bit of business.

The main threat in attacking could possibly come from eighteen year old, Jack Jevđenijević, with the supporters seemingly waxing lyrical about his performances preseason. There hasn't really been anyone of note coming through the youth ranks at the Warriors in recent years, and with their limited budget, a good youth development policy could be important. He will likely partner Drakish international, Iana Synder, who likes to play in the channels as opposed to as an out-and-out striker. Kirisakian, Miki Kurugaya, as a result might start moat of the matches from the bench. Somuele der Pros is the player who makes this side tick, and the Farf midfielder will be absolutely key once again this season, if they are going to have any hope of scaling the table. Der Pros has come a long way since being released from the Semarlandic league aged 21, and is now considered one of the top players in the SPL. He plays alongside Warriors captain, Tomás Fierro. The Cenian in one of the longest standing players in the squad, and he and Der Pros represent one area of the side, which doesn't need fixing. Manager, Judy Scott, will be hoping for a lot from Joey Bia. The club forked of four million for the left-footed right-winger, and will be looking for him to contribute both goals and assists. On the left, Lavender Jameson will get another chance to show what she can do. The former North Laithland star was a bit of a mixed bag last year, but Judy Scott has perhaps identified her as player she can get some more out of. The Warriors also have versatile wide-woman Adrienne O'Callahan on the bench and she can come on to create an impact. At the back, new signing, Simon Johnson, has the potential to make the biggest impression. The former Hillstreet skipper has possibly been unlucky to have been overlooked by Schottia, and will hope this move can change than. In the centre, Tygo Pasha will play alongside new boy JayRay Cranleigh. Eastfielder, Pasha, has a lot of SPL experience and his presence will be important once again. Left-back, Saskia Holden, has played for Schottia at Under 15 and Under 21 level, as well having spent time in Taeshan. In Nerio Teran, the Whalers have a reliable enough keeper, and the 27-year-old Guayabalese star will need to continue his good form if the club are going to stand any chance of making the top six

Prediction: 9th. Definitely better than last season, but the Warriors are not the side they once were. Taking a look at their squad, they would appear to be at the back of the chasing pack.

Star Player: Somuele der Pros | Rising Star: Jack Jevđenijević

The Royals are much fancied this season, after a highly impressive finish last time round. In Raven Cullen they have one of the most talented managers in the league, and the Brenecian has completely transformed the Handon side in her twelve month in charge. Lethal going forward and far more resilient at the back, Kings Park are almost unrecognisable from the side who struggled - season after season - to make the top half of the table. The majority of the budget has gone on Equestrian cap, Marilyn Peterson, to replace the often-unreliable Gerry Ion in goals. Seven million is a lot for a club of this size to spend on a keeper, so they are putting a lot of faith in the 24-year-old. After ringing in the changes last season, it would seem that Cullen is more content to keep things steady this time round, and continue to develop her rising stars such as, Hartsdown, Ashbrown, and McCorralie.

In the wing-forward roles, Tiferet Ashbrown and Billy McCorralie have pace to burn, and in term of raw speed, probably constitute the quickest attack in the SPL. McCorralie has represented Schottia at the DBC, whereas his Brenecian counterpart is already a full internationalist for the Esportivan nation. Sandwiched between the two, Dejan Corvell is the less glamorous yet equally important part of the attack. The Nepharim proved himself to be a good source of goals after joining from Maximum City at the start of last season, adjusting well to life in Schottia. The Royals play a very similar model to Handon United, with a diverse midfield three. Meghan Hartsdown is the shining-light in this starting line up right now, and the playmaker could easily play at a higher level. Her passing ability and eye for goal earned her a spot on the player of the year short list last season, and this could be the Brenecian's year to really make an impact. Club vice-captain, and long-standing team member, Sendoa, is the composed head in the middle of the park. The attacker-turned-central-midfielder brings a bit of everything to Kings Park's game, and was one of their standout players last year. Lastly, Lilith Paterson's sole job is to destroy. The vastly experienced 33-year-old is probably past her prime, but she still has an important job to do. The key player at the back is former Schottia international, Darren Hanlon, who is currently back in his second spell at the club. The 36-year-old might be buggered in terms of pace, but he is still the best defender in this side. He starts in the centre with the slightly suspect, Peter Dachs, who can be prone to errors. Yuiko Kasugano and Mario Modrich are both good wingback, but you would probably say they are better going forward as opposed to doing the bread and butter stuff. Peterson, of course, will start in goals, and with keeping clean-sheets traditionally a Kings Park problem, she will have a lot to do.

Prediction: 5th. Fifth last season, but there is every chance they could do better. Looking at the squad they have, the Globe Cup spots are probably about right, but if they start out as strongly as they finished last season then anything is possible.

Star player: Meghan Hartsdown | Rising star: Billy McCorralie

I like the look of this Lions side, eleven round pegs in eleven round holes. They also have a lot of experience in their ranks, and it is essentially the same side that finished a very decent tenth last season. Attendances are up, and it seems that the Avelione brothers have brought stability to the side, keeping them away from the relegation battles that have haunted many similar sized clubs. For the only SPL side to play at high altitude, the home matches will be key once again, as will the noisy fans who pack out Danu Parc every other weekend. Former Anglatian, Andrya Novkovic, is a massive signing for the club, and a bargain at two million. The 22-year-old had a loan spell at the club as a teenager, and should slot in perfectly in the attacking midfield role.

La Gorlions have one of those little and large strike forces with Boney, Cephus Hunt, playing alongside Kirsten Gemmill. Hunt's towering presence is very important to the team who love a punt up the middle. Gemmill, on the other hand, has the pace and guile to get herself on the end of the big man's flick-ons. The impressive Brendan Ranald, will play at the top of a midfield diamond, and is a big, burly attacker. The former Oakpark Celtic player represents something a little different for the SPL defenders to think about. Novkovic will slot into the role vacated by the retiring Alf Seggerson, and with her range of passing, should be a worthy replacement. On the other side of the diamond is Yelena Shostakovich, who similarly to Randal, brings a robustness as well as the usual cutting edge. Captain, Fredrick Houben, has been at the club for fourteen years now, and is a bruising defensive midfielder, capable of really stamping his authority on matches. The Lions back four sees a change to the line up for the first time in about ten years, with Christy Snell's move to Hillstreet leaving a vacancy at right-back. Twenty-one-year-old Martin Cameron comes into the side, and he looks like he should be able to offer a little more going forward than his predecessor. On the left, Juan Velente is one of those tireless wingbacks, who works up and down the flank all match - covering hard, and trying to push forward. The centre-back pairing is also tried and tested, with Schottic cap, Markus Pfab, and Vinod Punteer both knowing exactly what is expected. There is perhaps an issue with lack of pace in this area though, and the team will need to be careful that this doesn't become a weakness. Semarlandic keeper, Mark den Karl, conceded the equal fewest goals in the league last season, so there should be no issue there at least.

Prediction: 12th. Between tenth and fourteenth seems to be the clubs permanent position. They have a very physical and aggressive side, and there is no doubt that teams will be dreading playing them, but they lack the players needed for a concerted UICA push.

Star player: Andrya Novkovic | Rising star: Brendan Ranald

Marionville are the wildcard this season. The club shocked much of Schottic football two years ago, when they became by far the biggest club to go down in the UICA era. The team have been in desperate need of shake up for a long time, and the only good thing you could say about relegation was, at least they got it. Ambitious young manager Jack Cordoba came in with the task of not just bringing them straight back up, but also getting the club back challenging for UICA football again quickly. With the first half of that mission already accomplished, it looks he is now setting about turning the Boys into a real force. The board have backed Cordoba financially, and after trying not to overdo it last season in Division One, the Christopheran has really loosened the purse strings in a bid to come back with a bang. Nephara international, Circe Rosenthal, is the club's record signing, and actually would not look out of place in a top four side. At only 21, the former Morningstar midfielder is only likely to get better, and looks like a good investment. Marionville were also able to tie up Alex Pearce jnr, who was on loan at the club last season from Cornellians. The lure of first team football was obviously too strong to keep the Cosumarite at the club where his father reach legend status. Striker, Jess Grey, recorded an impressive tally with relegated 1990 Soessch last season, and looks like value for money at just under a million. Meanwhile, rising star, Dawn Morham will get her big break after impressing for West Coast Warriors in Division One. Teenager, Jack Avelione is also another exciting addition, and the versatile attacker will get his first taste of SPL action since joining Bastion in Eura two years ago.

It's a new look forward line for Division One's runaway winners, after Lara Wedderburn's loan deal expired, and William Snedden was deemed surplus to requirements. Jessica Grey comes into the side, and while most of the former Raiders girl's goals came in the second tier, she proved last season that she is more than capable of stepping up. Alongside her will be either Scott Del Barbaroa, or on loan wonderkid, Jack Avelione. Del Barbaroa joins from the Christopheran youth academy, wile Avelione (one of Schottia's hottest prospects right now) is here on a one year deal from Bastion in Eura. Providing the ammo for this new look attack, 21-year-old Circe Rosenthal has the creative spark and energy to really drive this side forward. Marionville suddenly find themselves with a very young - all Nepharim -midfield, as Rosenthal will start alongside 20-year-old Laura Carrow. Carrow likes to get in the opposition’s faces and was a real presence for the side in Division One - we will need to wait and see how she makes the step up. On the left, Andy Bell is one of those young wingers whose sole redeeming feature is his pace - but to be fair, he can most certainly cause problems. On the right, Pasargan, Vojnomir Nikolic, is one of the few players to survive the Cordoba cull, and at 27, he is also one of the most experienced heads in this young side. Captain, Donald Nesbit, was a rock at the heart of this strong Marionville defence last season, and has looked a different class since making the switch from Newport Sirens. Keeping a hold of Alex Pearce has been crucial for the Boys this season, as the former Cornellians kid and Nesbit form a strong partnership at the heart of the defence. Twenty-two-year-old Cenian right-back, Pablo Altamirano, is another player who is in the position of having played well in the second tier last season, but he is thus far untested against top SPL opposition. Teenager, Dawn Morham, completes the outfield line up, and the sister of Corvistone's Kirsta is a rampaging full-back, who should excite the Marionville crowds. 95Xer, Krista Till, is a goalie with international experience and completes what is undoubtedly the best line up we have seen from a newly promoted side.

Prediction: 7th. Player for player Marionville look like a side who could perhaps challenge for the thirdChampions' Cup place. They have good players in every position, and a talented young manager. The only question marking hanging over them is whether or not they can adjust to the SPL standard quickly enough.

Star Player: Circe Rosenthal | Rising Star: Jack Avelione

by **Schottia** » Wed Jan 03, 2018 11:36 am

-Part Two-

A robust, bruising side - Port Patrick United are aptly nicknamed the Breakers. Not that the side are utterly bereft of quality, but manager Des Pleent certainly puts power ahead of placement. The North Handon side have been in and around the UICA places for the last seven seasons, and have been busy in the transfer window, as they look to finally establish themselves as top four material. The retirement of targetman striker Callum Frir, will have been blow for Port Patrick over the summer, but with the seven and a half million they forked out for Porty's Demba Traore, it hopefully won't be too keenly felt. Robbie McSuol on the other hand is an interesting addition. The 19-year-old is a particularly un-Schottic midfielder, and very much subscribes to that Grant Nean/West Hollbookdale school of thinking in terms of the way they try to pass the ball over the line. McSuol is undoubtedly a talent, but it will be interesting to see how he fits into this side. Pleent's third and final summer signing is more up his street, and vicious right-back, Maria Young, will provide a real punch in the wide areas.

You've got to hand it to Des Pleent, he has probably put together the best strike force he could with his budget. Semarland cap, Demba Traore has a prolific scoring record in the SPL, and alongside Cenian youngster Chase Ziegenhorn, the Breakers have a forty goal a season forward line. In the midfield, Brenecian, Tanya Yeats, is big fans favourite, and this sturdy, attack-minded player isn't afraid to unleash what is one of the best long-range strikes in the league. Alongside her, Robbie McSoul is probably one of the best passers of the ball in the game right now, but he does have a tendency to overplay things. On the right, Whitney Kelly, has consistently been one of the best young wingers in the league for the last two seasons. Her recent call up to the Chromatika national team might have raised a few eyebrows down Galloway Lane, but given they way she's been cutting defences open, it's probably deserved. On the left, Chiyoko Sakuraka is a little different, slower, and more thoughtful. The Project +90 graduate has a wicked left peg on her though, and like most of the Breakers midfield, isn't afraid to have a pop at goal. Connie Malone is likely to start on the bench this season, but if things don't work out with McSuol, we may well see the Nepharim back snapping at some heels again. Veteran captain, Davy Keates, has been an ever-present part of this side for over a decade now - but at 34, the Schottia cap has probably seen better days. Much of the industry at the back now comes from Danny Herzogenrath, a 22-year-old former DBC bronze medallist with Schottia, who would appear to have a big future. At left-back, Vanessa Stocker had a good season last year, after being promoted from the reserves, and opposite the tenacious Maria Young, the wingback positions are well covered. Keeper, Altavian Kalhoro, is a player who seems to be improving with age, and is another popular figure with the Breakers fans.

Prediction: 8th. The Port Patrick fans won't be happy with eighth, but there is stiff competition this season. We are probably looking at the most competitive SPL field ever, and the Breakers are in the mix for the top six spots.

Star Player: Whitney Kelly | Rising star: Chase Ziegenhorn

Dundee's habit of selling their best players has grown into more of an addiction it seems, as yet another top star made his way on to bigger and better things. Manager Johnny Smith might be gone, taking wonderkid keeper Ed Lorrey with him, but at least Dundee have a nice new stadium to play in. The new look 18,000 seater Granier Road Park is complete, and perhaps will help the club move up to the next level. Walter Queen comes in as manager, bringing with him the very highly rated Christopher Davis. The former Allous right-winger was utterly outstanding in the lower leagues, and he will now get his big chance to show what he can do. There hasn't really been much movement in terms of playing personnel, but Dundee still have a solid squad, and they will be aiming for top half once again.

In the attack, Sett Horn provides the power, and Wallace Solway provides the subtlety. Cosumarite, Horn, is a burly, barrel-chested striker, who leaves defenders flattened; where as former Lammerton girl, Solway, makes up for what she lacks in substance with her accurate finishing. Jim Gerrish is the glue that holds the side together in the middle, and while the destroyer-type midfielder might have dropped out of the Schottia squad, he is still an important player for Dundee. Heidi Spearing is a player the Dundee faithful have really taken to their hearts, and while not everything she tries come off, the attacking midfielder's vision and ambition are commendable. On the left, Mark Keane has been knocking on the door of a Schottia call-up for some time, and at only 24, he might still get there. All eyes will be on Christopher Davis though, and Walter Queen will be desperately hoping the right-winger can replicate his form of last season. Poppy Fayrkirk is one of those natural leaders at the back, and the former Mucusia defender has been pretty much unflappable for the Panners since joining. Alongside the towering Kevin Scougle, they form the keystone of one of the best defences in the league. Jeremy Buckthorn is another player who can count himself unlucky not to have been given a look in for Schottia this cycle, the U21 star is perhaps a little unlucky to have been born in the same era as Louis Hordern. Catheline Chaplain is a left-back that the club picked up on a free twelve months ago, and the ex-Chatswood star far from disgraced herself in her first season in Schottia. The mouthful that is, Alan Städtischer-Young, has big gloves to fill stepping into the breach for Ed Lorrey. The 21-year-old did alright in the reserves last season, but he is going to have to be better than alright if he is going to have the same impact as his predecessor.

Prediction: 11th. Dundee haven't slipped backwards, but there is a lot more competition right now. The promotion of Marionville along with the phenomenal improvements Kings Park and Kirk Preston have made may well squeeze the Panners down the order.

Star Player: Jim Gerrish | Rising star: Sett Horn

Jimmy Mitchel has most likely now used up all his lives, as his attempts to guide these sleeping giants to the top six have consistently ended in failure. It's not even as if he hasn't had money to spend; the board have backed the former Willox Street and Port Christopher boss handsomely. This season sees three new additions to the side, which on the face of it, actually looks pretty decent. Claire Beresford, one would imagine, should be the kind of midfielder who will take to the SPL like a duck to water. The former Chatswood skipper should provide experience, leadership, and grit to the central midfield three. The fact that Athletic shelled out $2.5 million for a 17-year-old playing in Port Christopher, probably tells you all you need to know about Anna Meyreani. Discovered while playing football on the beach with her father four years ago, the rapid winger destroyed the Super-League last season, and Mitchel will be hoping she can do the same back in her native Schottia. Finally, Jakob Hüsch has been picked up from relegated Soessch 1990 for a nominal fee, and the centre-back should make the step up with relative ease.

Looking at the Port James squad it's very hard to see where the problem lies, and the forward line is no exception. In Jack Hobbs and Derick Mason they have a very competent strike force, with both more than capable of chipping in gaols. Targetman, Mason, has spent time in the Sunrise Islands with Matthew Rangers, where as Hobbs has captained Schottia at U21 level. In the wide areas, Meyreani has the potential wreak havoc in this division, playing on the right flank - while former Pirates attacker, Yunji, has a good forward's instinct and should also be amongst the goals. In the middle of the pitch, team captain Evangeline Querón is the all action central player who drives the team forward. Claire Beresford will likely proved a more defensive thrust, and Greer Hyrman plays the role of the workhorse - nothing fancy, but gets the job done. Mitchel's sides always line up with a back three, and it looks like this trio should be capable of forming an effective team. Pepe Edgar was the club's record signing last season and the young defender won caps for Quebec aged only seventeen. Mountainous centre-half, Gregor Borg, doesn't let anything past him in the air, and the former Anglatian youth international is another player Mitchel has brought with him from the Pirates. Jakob Hüsch is the new addition, and the manager will be looking for commitment and work rate from him, as he replaces Pat Prunell. Nepharim keeper, Brendan Hammer, has a presence at the back, and does the simple stuff well. Sometimes, however, kicking isn't his strongest point.

Prediction: 13th. There could be very little between fifth and fifteenth this season, so Athletic fans shouldn't despair at reading this. It does seem however, that Jimmy Mitchel's plan for the club isn't really working.

Star Player: Pepe Edgar | Rising Star: Anna Meyreani

Hollin seem to be impossible to flush. Somehow the team from Belker have held on to their top-flight status for a number of year now, but with the sale of their best player during the window, time is now surely up. The UICA era hasn't been kind to the side that were once top half of the table regulars; as their limited budget has seen them rooted near the bottom in recent years. Jack Hosker has managed to use some of the money from the Colin Loweson transfer to freshen up the squad, and both Marionville's Kaige MacCílarook, and Raiders' midfielder Ian Vincent, will need to be at their best to keep the club up. Whatever happens, it looks like it's going to be a long hard season for boys and girls in blue.

Striker Fred Dawson was once a promising youngster at Port Sebastian, and actually played a leading role in Schottia's DBC-33 triumph. At 31, he is still capable of getting on the end of a cross though, and alongside Nick Man, Hollin have a decent but unremarkable forward line. The midfield is really where the Belker Boy's problems start. Chris Jack is about five years past his best on the right-wing and really doesn’t have the legs anymore; while Neil Brown has never really developed into the complete midfielder that was promised. Hollin have always been strongest at the back, and Cosumarite, Praxil Glasspool, is probably the jewel in their crown these days. Right-back, Ruth Forbes, has also played for Schottia at youth level and can be a force going forward. Former Marionville man, Kaige MacCílarook, is a good goalkeeper, and that might be their saving grace in the end.

Prediction: 18th. Hollin will be embroiled in a relegation battle once again, but they have survived before, and might manage it this time.

Star player: Praxil Glasspool | Rising Star: Ruth Forbes

It now seems apparent that Mucusia, and their fan ownership model aren't going to take the league by storm. They started out with great gusto, but the top half of the table has always seemed a bridge too far for the Port James club. They have good players in their ranks, and are particularly impressive in the forward areas, but twelfth or thirteenth seems to have become the glass ceiling for them. Lilly Kittman has won a lot of praise in her time in charge, with her attractive brand of football; but it is probably now time to try something a little more direct, if the side have ambitions to finish anywhere higher.

Whatever problems Mucusia encounter, scoring goals is unlikely to be one of them. Sara Foucault is back in the for a second spell at the club, having previously helped them to promotion seven years ago, and her five years at FC Soessch seem to have only helped her hone her skills. Aimée Hétu, her strike partner, was the club's big signing upon promotion, and the Pasaragan has gone on to become a prolific goal scorer for the club. There will be competition up front this year however, as teenager, Eleni Melas, returns from a successful loan spell at West Coast Warriors. Daineri, Ryuni, normally operates just behind the front-two in what is an unorthodox midfield-diamond. Former Cornellians veteran, Eula Richard, plays in the centre of the pitch, and it is to her that the club look to lace things together. Former Kirisakina youth player, Mako Sekine, and home-grown talent, Tom Killincic, anchor the midfield, and both are reliable when it comes to breaking down the opposition attack. The defensive area is probably where the battle will be won or lost for Mucusia, and again Sarah Gwire will be called upon to deflect the brunt of what the what is thrown at them. David Mowat, however, is also one of the rising stars of the team, and with any luck this will be a breakthrough year for the 20-year-old.

Prediction: 14th. It would have to be a very poor season to see them dragged into relegation trouble, but it's not impossible. More likely than not, however, they will find themselves somewhere around the middle of the table.

Star player: Aimée Hétu | Rising star: David Mowat

We enter what is likely to go down as a crucial year in New Island's history. Under Judy Scott they established themselves as a top-flight side, gradually building their way up the pecking order. However, they have been victims of their own success, and after seeing several of their top players sold off, and their manager depart, they now need to steady the ship. Nova Kymeri was a massive player for them last season, and her loss will be keenly felt - however, new manager, Ramonita Kendrick, can't afford to let the team sit and wallow. Herlinda Sterling looks like she could be a good signing at this level, and at 22, the former Crossroads Crusaders girl still has potential to improve. Striker, Enid Gil, joins from the New Island's branch of the national academy, and the 18-year-old looked good in the games she played last season. Lastly, Lenore Drummond for one million is also a shrewd bit of business, even if the signing of the Sharrow keeper was a bit of a last minute buy.

Ramone Scotta will once again lead the line for the Pebbles, the club no doubt happy to have kept a hold of this battering ram of a striker. Enid Gil will also get her big chance alongside him, and at eighteen, she is already tall and muscular competitor. Former Warriors striker, Ian Willson, will move to the bench, but a good striking option to call upon will not go wrong in this division. In the midfield, Holly Addison will switch to the left to cover for the departing Kymeri, and while she lacks the Cenian's pace, she can certainly perform in the wide areas. In the centre Niko Rosmalen played okay last season, but both he and Kendrick will be hoping for much better this time round, where he will have the young, Herlinda Sterling, for company. Ikas Nike, on the right, is a quick right-winger who offers nothing out of the ordinary, but does a job. There has been a lot of upheaval in the New Island defence of the past two seasons, but Erik Cunningham seems to be doing a good job in the centre. The Apoxian was probably the side's best player at the back last term, helping out the somewhat inexperienced Fortune Adeleke. Jano Jäger was a part of the Schottia U18 set up while at Port Patrick, and is no slouch at right-back, whereas Gordon Ferguson is perhaps a player they could look to replace on the right. There shouldn't be any real worries about Lenore Drummond in goals, and the Brenecian will likely hold her own.

Prediction: 16th. Steadying the ship is important this season. The club have seen a lot of change, and staying up is number one priority - going down would be a disaster.

Star player: Holly Addison | Rising star: Enid Gil

Hillstreet are a team who could be in a spot of bother. Conner Watts has done a good job of keeping them well clear of relegation in their three seasons back in the top-flight, but with the loss of Johnson and Ben Hassi, they now look very vulnerable. The Hunters have one of the smallest budgets in the league, and any attempts to replace two of last season's key stars was always going to be a patch up job. Lenya Auzens, Port Sebastian’s Christopheran born striker, is someone who has goals in her, but she is inexperienced, and might not have the stomach for a relegation dogfight. Christy Snell is another new addition, filling the gaping hole left by captain, Simon Johnson. The former, Lions right-back has been capped for Schottia at U21 level, and has over ten years of SPL experience under his belt. Hillstreet are not the worst looking side to ever grace Schottic top-flight, but they are going to have to pull off something special.

Former Redvali striker, Will Castillo, offers an experienced head up front, and that will be needed more than ever alongside the talented - yet untested - Auzens. Getting goals could be a problem for the Hunters, and they are going to need to midfielders such as Ichiko Tsukahara and Dunixi Izambizaga to help out on that front. Holding midfielder, Aleksander Heino-Watanabe, is probably the best player in this current squad, and the journeyman player could probably do a job at a much higher level. The Vormsi born player can break up play effectively, to can protect the back four - and it is a back four which looks like it could use a bit of protecting. Desmond Derpson is a decent player, but at 34 he is slow. Sanchia Diaz is probably the best of a bad bunch, and with a few Port Christopher caps to her name, she'll almost certainly get a move away should the club take the plunge. Goalkeeper, Lisa Farney, is one of the best female keepers in the Schottic game, and she has done well in her time in Huntley. There is a good spine running through the team, but they are weak in some areas.

Prediction: 17th. One would imagine it would be between Hillstreet, Hollin, and Bara, fighting it out to avoid the last two relegation slots.

Star Player: Aleksander Heino-Watanabe | Rising Star: Lenya Auzens

The Blues will be absolutely fine this season, we think... The side that lifted the Series B Champions Cup last year and managed a haul of 40 SPL points will be quietly confident they can build on that success. The management team of Chris Okywä and Nathan McDonald have done a good job since coming in, and this season will be about consolidating for the former Schottia and FC Soessch stars. Their only summer signing is Brinemouth reserve, Lasse Schnarnberg, who should bring some muscle to their light-weight forward line. He might not have a prolific scoring rate, but with Temples and Nesbo hovering around the area, his hold up play might be invaluable.

With a big player in the middle, a target for the out ball, NBB's pacier wing-forwards should be able to do the damage this season. It's likely going to be a difficult system to play against, and the manager will be hoping that it can help them claim a few big wins. They obviously still have Shu on the bench, and the Daineri will be useful in the sense that he can play anywhere along that front three. The midfield is definitely where the side are at their best. Thomas Sanchez has played at the World Cup finals with Port Christopher, while Charlotte Ünterhausen and Jonny Birch are both tried and tested at SPL level. The youngest Ünterhausen sibling finished very strongly last season, scoring some important goals as the team avoided relegation. The back four are good, but not great. There's no one who really stands out as a star player, but in the same sense there is no one you would have concerns about. Christine Philippousis is probably the pick of the bunch, and at 21, the Nepharim can still make improvements to her game. Thirty-year-old John Fallen completes the line up in goals.

Prediction: 15th. It's very hard to see NBB getting themselves into trouble. There are a few areas they could improve, but with the midfield they have, they're going to be able to assert their authority on the matches with the smaller teams.

Star player Charlotte Ünterhausen | Rising star: Nikki Temples

Last season's surprise package, Kirk Preston United, are one of the side's fancied to do well again this year. Ross Killanen's tactics might not be revolutionary, entertaining, or pretty, but they were extremely effective. Alexander Alan's departure will be a blow to the Holy Men, but the money has been reinvested, and three solid signings mean the side are probably in better shape as a result. Quite how Killanen pulled off the signing of Oskar Holst is a bit of a mystery, as is transfer fee. Holst is one of the rising stars of Farf football, and by far the highest profile player to ever pull of the blue and white jersey. Matilda Weiss is another player with top level experience under her belt, and the Chenoworth Harriers wing-girl is the direct replacement for Alan on the right. Finally, veteran Chatswood keeper, Rook Alphonse, comes in to replace the recently retired Thomas Ireland and looks on paper to be an improvement in that department.

The prospect of Holst paired up with 24-goal Guayabalese star, Leopoldo Ramirez, up front must be a tantalising one for the Kirk Preston fans. Bizarrely, at face value, you'd have to say that it's as good a strike force as anyone outside of the top four. Add to that the fact that they still have Flasymar and John Wyle on the bench, and you can see why folk are tipping them to finish strongly. A big feature of the Kirk Preston play has been the imposing physical presence of Ian Long and Oliver Helling in the centre of the pitch. The two of them bullied Handon United off the pitch last season, and the opposition are going to need to find a way to deal with that. Whether or not Weiss is an improvement on Alan is debatable, but she is Project +90 stock, and her on field intelligence will stand her in good stead. Afton Prichard is promoted from the reserves and will start on the left of midfield. The 20-year-old is an unknown quantity though, and we'll need to see if he's able to hit the ground running. The back four of Kirk Preston are probably strong enough. Russ Linvoy had a real breakthrough season last year, while Thomas Barr and Frazer Mata have been with the club a long time, and know what is expected. Keeper, Alphonse, should be up to the task, and if he can keep things tight, there is no reason why Kirk Preston can't be pushing for the top six again.

Prediction: 10th. Kirk Preston look every bit the top-half team, and they are going to be right in hunt for sixth place.

Star Player: Oskar Holst | Rising Star: Russ Linvoy

The Rock have their work cut out this season, if they want to put an end to the perpetual yo-yoing which as dogged the last decade of their history. A strong second tier side with no budget to invest in the playing staff would sum them up. It's now obvious that it will take some real heroics to keep Snubbeak Rock in the Schottic Premier League. William Snedden is the side's only summer signing having no doubt caught the eye as he helped Marionville to promotion. It's somehow never really worked out for the former U-21 cap, who finds himself a journeyman aged 24, and in need of settling down. The Rock needed to bring in more than this, but they will instead need to lean heavily on the young players coming through their ranks.

Chris McKinsey is Snubbeak's star player, and his goals will be imperative if they club are to stand any chance of staying up. The Schottia DBC star, is a former Cornellians youth product and a U15 WC winner. McKinsey alongside William Snedden up front, is probably the strongest area of the Rock's side, and the best strike force amongst the relegation candidates. Gary Girren is another important player for the New Island side in the centre of midfield, and has a lot of responsibly to carry the team forward. Flanked by Cassandra Rowell and Iona Stone, Snubbeak have a pacy yet inexperienced midfield. James Romero has been their best player at the back over the last four or five seasons, whereas teen left-back, Bonnie McGillivray, might be one to watch. Keeper, Max Johnstone, completes a pretty unmemorable set of players.

Prediction: 20th. There are a few teams that could get sucked into the relegation battle this year, but Snubbeak Rock are most people's favourites to finish bottom.

Star Player: Chris McKinsey | Rising Star: Bonnie McGillivray

Bara Waves make a little bit of history by becoming the first team from the now defunct Women's Super League to make it to the SPL. Formerly Handon Ladies, the Waves will face a massive uphill struggle this season with promotion likely coming a couple of seasons too soon. Renting Port Patrick's Galloway Lane, while trying to adjust to a higher level of football is a daunting prospect, for a side used to playing in front of crowds of less than a couple of thousand. Objectively speaking it was said they needed four good signings to be ready for top flight football - they got one, possible two. Flora Klee wouldn't have been their top striking target, but the former Lammerton City and Mucusia star at least has SPL experience. Ana Aytoun joins from Handon United for a quarter of a million, and while the DBC call-up is a promising midfielder, she isn't the wily old pro the team were screaming out for. Dolores Ciboney, a 21-year-old Cosumarite winger is probably signed as a future replacement for Abigail Teris, who is likely to be snapped up soon due to the increased exposure in the top-tier.

Flora Klee will plough a lonely furrow up front in this 4-1-4-1 formation. It's a lot to ask of a player who isn't the most physically endowed, and she will need support. Abigail Teris is the side's best player going forward, and the U-21 cap is actually a very competent winger. With Eastfielder, Sarina Neville, on the left, the side actually have good balance in the wide areas and this will be very important if they are to avoid the drop. In Dawn Gracie and Ana Aytoun, the Waves have a couple of very willing young women, but watching them go up against some of the top central midfields in the country could be difficult viewing. Ella Grear is a strong and stout-hearted defensive midfielder, who was very effective in the First Division last season, but will need to find second gear now. What might keep Bara up is the fact that they appear to have a very resilient defence (maybe even the best of the relegation candidates). Margaret Lennox played for Schottia's Women at the Olympics, and the club's first male player, Mike Weber, has the raw physicality to act as a foil for her. Alison Banks is a national academy graduate who spent a number of years in Anglatia, and left-back, Diana Taylor, good enough defensively. Keeper, Joanna Kytee, has caps at youth level, and for the Schottia women's side, and is another who performed well in the First Division.

Prediction: 19th. It would be great to see the team stay up, but it's not really realistic. They're best hope is to use this as a learning experience, go away, and continue to develop.

Star Player: Abigail Teris | Rising Star: Ana Aytoun

-Schottic First Division-

After Marionville's impressive march to the title last year, this First Division season promises to be a much closer affair. There's no obvious candidate that really stands out as runaway champion material, meaning we could perhaps see some surprises. The recently relegated sides, D'Itille, Soessch 1990, and Granton Vale will all be up there, with Granton probably having the best squad on paper. Grant Nean's West Holbrookdale will of course be fighting it out with them, but they have fallen just short many times before, and you have to ask yourself whether or not the have the bottle. West Coast Warriors might also be in with a decent shout, and while they have lost the services of Dawn Morham, they are still a quick attacking side that can inflict a lot of damage.

A little further down the table, Central Stars have a good squad, but Chris Pilum's players had an poor season last time round will need to get of to a much better start if they are going to push for promotion. Lammerton City are another side who have fallen on hard times, but they have SPL pedigree and that might be enough to haul them over the line. Throw Berwick United, Handon North, Dollar, and Jena into the mix and you can easily see how this could be a tough season to call.

by **Schottia** » Wed Jan 17, 2018 1:31 am

Matchday one - six

Series B Champions' Cup -- First Prelim Round
Bara Waves 2–1 Olympic East (SLL)

The first ball was kicked in the new Schottic football season at Galloway Lane tonight, as the Waves got us going in the Series B. Formerly Handon Ladies, the club managed by Jane Swanson got off to a good start in this match, opening up a two goal cushion over their Llamian opponents. Eastfielder, Sarina Neville, gave them the lead, before a Flora Klee strike doubled it just before half time. Although Olympic East pulled one back in the second half, Bara held out for a well-deserved win.

Series B Champions' Cup -- First Prelim Round
(SLL) Olympic East 0-1 Bara Waves

After getting their noses in front in the first leg, Bara Waves finished Olympic East off this week, as Abigail Teris turned in an Ana Aytoun through-ball to give them a 3-1 aggregate win.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Second Prelim Round
Bara Waves 2–1 Xilon OC (EFL)

Sarina Neville helped Bara Waves defeat her fellow Eastfielders, Xolon OC, with an excellent second half double, as the First Division play-off winners moved to within a point of the third round of qualifying. The Schottic side didn't have it all their own way, bit managed to do enough to win at home.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Second Prelim Round
(EFL) Xilon OC 1-1 Bara Waves

The Waves finished the job they started with a stammering 1-1 draw in Eastfield Lodge. The Handon side were second best for long periods of the game though, and were lucky that a fist half goal from Dawn Gracie got them over the line.

Champions' Cup -- Third Prelim Round#
Lammerton 2–0 Ibini FC (VAL)

Lammerton, under manager Johnny Smith, were looking to break the clubs UICA curse by securing passage to the Champions' Cup proper. The only problem was Ibini FC lay in wait. It was a good performance by the Hornets though, all in all, and they were probably deserved of the win at the City Ground. Raquel Naeher slid the ball home from a tight angle to open the scoring, and the two footed-Nephara international then turned provider in the second half, skinning the right-back alive, before squaring the ball for Elspeth Gendenning who had the easiest of tap-ins.

Globe Cup -- Third Prelim Round
(HYF) Real Maniladrid CF 1–2 FC Soessch

Soessch also got off to a solid start in their Globe Cup campaign away to Real Maniladrid. After going behind early on, David Hughes headed in a Groaré Sasca cross to level the game, before a distance drive from Kerstin Dornenberger gave the side a win and two valuable away goals.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Third Prelim Round
(EUR) Bastion Lions 2–1 Bara Waves

It looked like the Waves may have ran out of steam before the season has even began, as a sluggish performance in Eura revealed some defensive frailties. A Flora Klee goal wasn't enough, as the Handon side went down 2-1 to Bastion Lions.

Champions' Cup -- Third Prelim Round
(VAL) Ibini FC 2-2 Lammerton

Lammerton twice came from behind to earn a draw with Ibini, sending them through to the Champions' Cup play-off round. Mars Alexandersson cracked in the first after a clever lay-off from Jasper Valaran. Kaytlyne Victoriane scored the second after she got a toe to a Raquel Naeher cross, swung in low from the Nepharim winger.

Globe Cup -- Third Prelim Round
(HYF) Real Maniladrid CF 0-2 FC Soessch

It was a straightforward win for FC Soessch, as they finished what they started, lurching a little closer to a first ever Globe Cup. A typical poacher's finish from David Hughes opened the scoring, and a late second from Currian Cort gave Barry Gorman's side a very comfortable victory.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Third Prelim Round
Bara Waves 3-2 Bastion Lions (EUR)

Bara actually saved their best performance of the season for this match, but it wasn't enough to prevent them crashing out at the hands of Euran side, Bastion Lions. Abigail Teris twice put them in front in the first half, only to be pegged bag on both occasions. The Schottic side fought hard though, and after Flora Klee was downed in the box, the former Lammerton City and Mucusia sticker scored the penalty herself. It wasn't, however, enough to see her side through, as the Waves went out on away goals.

Champions' Cup -- Play-Off Round
Cornellians 5–1 KT Moreazerua (AUD)
(NPH) Crisisbless 1–1 Lammerton

All eyes would have been on Reinhard Shale's new signings this week, as Cornellians got their Champions' Cup campaign up and running. The Eagles looked in fine form as the put five goals past Audioslavian side, KT Moreazerua. Isla Sibučić put in a player of the match performance, as the Cosumarite scored two second-half goals, and set up another for countrywoman, Kathryn Kvanderwyk. Emil Eklund also scored on his debut, and a late strike from Mershawn Mercury completed the rout. Lammerton however, travelled to Nephara this week to take on heavyweights, Crisisbless. The Hornets would have been full of confidence following their win over Ibini in the previous round and started strongly in this match, with Kaytlyne Victoriane putting them ahead in the first five minutes. Pressure began to mount though , and an equaliser from Allison Swan denied Lammerton a famous win.

Globe Cup -- Play-Off Round
FC Soessch 3–2 Sebio City (ESH)
(BYN) Pajukas Sport 1–1 Kings Park

Soessch survived an early scare at home to Echani side Sebio City, twice coming from behind to win the first leg of the play-off round tie. Groaré Sasca was the star for the Schottians, and was a constant thorn in the opposition side, setting up two of their goals. Kings Park didn't have it all their own way either, as Raven Cullen's players could only manage a draw with Pajukas Sport in Buyan. There were almost as many Schottians in the home side as there were in the Royals line up, with Scott Burton and Laura Annesley both in the Valdas Tomascevicius starting eleven. It was the latter, Annesley, who scored the second half goal that cancelled out Meghan Hartsdown's opener.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Play-Off Round
(NGD) Astrolabe 2–0 Snubbeak Rock
Marionville 2–1 Kionao Locals (TUR)

Snubbeak Rock failed to make any real impact on the Series B, with a very disappointing 2-0 defeat to Astrolabe in New Gelderland, which will leave them with a lot to do. This was also a pivotal match for Marionville, as the newly promoted side made their debut in UICA competition. Jack Cordoba's players seemed pretty effective as they notched up a 2-1 win over Turorian side, Kionao Locals. New signing, Circe Rosenthal, looked every bit the class act, and had a hand in both her side's goal.

SPL
La Gorlions 2–0 Hillstreet
New Island 3–2 Mucusia
Marionville 1–1 New Belfast Warriors
Port James Athletic 4–0 Kirk Preston United
Dundee 3–0 Lammerton
Bara Waves 0–2 Hollin
Cornellians 2–2 Handon United
Port Sebastian 0–1 New Belfast Blues
Kings Park 2–2 FC Soessch
Port Patrick United 1–1 Snubbeak Rock

What a start to the season this was. With upsets galore - and the two title favourites facing off at the Lochend Stadium - we were left with plenty of talking points. After their massive win midweek in the Champions' Cup, one would have been forgiven for thinking that Cornellians were going to have it mostly their own way as they played host to Handon United. Jane Gullie's side had other ideas though, and showed why they are worthy champions, taking the lead early on, as Daniel Dostalok prodded home Natalie Adams cross from close-range. The Eagles did rally, with Isla Sibučić drawing a great save from Harry Gould with a twenty five metre strike. The home side pulled level shortly after that, with Jade Irwin expertly shaking the attentions of Rachel Hellion, before playing Emil Eklund through for his first SPL goal. The Buyanese was clearly in the mood, and rattled the upright with a powerful header a few minutes later, following a great cross from Triffid Ramsey. Cornellians did take the lead eventually though, with a clever exchange between the Kvanderwyk siblings allowing Sibučić to curl one home from the edge of the area. The home team definitely had the edge in terms of play, but United were always in the match, and secured a share of the points with seven minutes left on the clock. Apoxian, Magdalen Demetrius, looks like a decent signing, and the 20-year-old-floated a brilliant cross in at the back post for Regatta Aspenwood to side-foot into the roof of Harry Gould's net.

Much-fancied Kirk PrestonUnited travelled to face perpetual underachievers, Port James Athletic, with the result far from what we expected. The Seasiders absolutely tore the Holy Men apart, in what was one of their best performances in years. The Kirk Preston striker force of Holst and Ramirez, whom we have talked so much about, were mere spectators as the majority of the match was played around their own box. Anna Meyreani got herself on the score sheet, as the 17-year-old put in a strong debut performance in front of the home crowd. There were also goals for Derick Mason (2), and Jack Hobbs, as Rook Alphonse spent more time taking the ball from his own net than she did anything else. Athletic looked good, with new signings Meyreani and Claire Beresford both making an impact. Kirk Preston on the other hand are going to need to go away and have a long hard think about this one.

Finally, in a grudge match of sorts, Dundee defeated Lammerton by a stunning three goals to nil. Playing his former club seemed to get to teenage keeper, Ed Lorrey, who looked shaky in his league debut. Sett Horn blasted his way through the sleeping Hornets defence to score the first on 15 minutes, getting onto a cross from Mark Keane. Jim Gerrish scored the second on the stroke of half time, after a nice tee off from midfield partner Heidi Spearing. Lammerton did their best to force their way back into the match in the second half, but it was clear it was going to be one of those days for Johnny Smith's side. Their misery was complete as the forehead of Sett Horn was once again their undoing - the Cosumarite striker connecting with a Spearing freekick to help get his side off to an exceptional start this season.

In other results: Port Sebastian were another side who got off to a nightmare start, as a well-organised NBB beat them 1-0 at Dyerton. Ramonita Kendrick's first game in charge of New Island got off to a winning start, as goals from Enid Gil (2) and Herlinda Sterling helped them defeat Mucusia. And Holin's 2-0 win at Bara Waves could prove crucial already, in the battle to avoid the drop.

Champions' Cup -- Play-Off Round
(AUD) KT Moreazerua 1-5 Cornellians
Lammerton 0-2 Crisisbless (NPH)

Lightning struck for a second time this week in the Champions' Cup, as Cornellians put five past KT Moreazerua for a second time on the return leg in Audioslavia. Another double from Isla Sibučić put the 21-year-old on five goals three games this season, as the Cosumarite once again looked a cut above the rest. It was a good performance from front to back, with Steelhenge and Berg also coming up with goods in defence. Jade Irwin's curling freekick was the highlight of the game, however, leaving keeper, Santiago Dorantes, with no chance. For Lammerton though, the game was up, and after such a good performance in Nephara last week, they were taught a tough lesson by a superior Crisisbless side. Ror Jevdjevic-Hadsic, and Tia Drenas compounded what has been a torrid week for the Hornets.

Globe Cup -- Play-Off Round
(ESH) Sebio City 3-1 FC Soessch
Kings Park 2-1 Pajukas Sport (BYN)

FC Soessch were left to lament the goals they conceded in the home tie, as a 3-1 defeat to Sebio City in Eshan saw them exit the Globe Cup before it even began. Things couldn't have started better for the North Island side as Johan Shearer tucked the ball away from close range to give them a 1-0 lead. It all unravelled from there, however, and the result will now mean Barry Gorman finds himself under pressure to deliver domestically. By contrast, Kings Park stuck to the task and got the job done at home to Pajukas Sport. A first half header from Dejan Corvel and a late Sendoa strike gave them a 2-1 win over the Buyanese outfit.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Play-Off Round
(NGD) Astrolabe 1-1 Snubbeak Rock
(TUR) Kionao Locals 1-1 Marionville

While Snubbeak Rock were left to limp out of the Series B in New Gelderland, Marionville managed to make it safely through to the group stage. It was a hard fought match in Turori, however, a goal from wonderkid Jack Avelione seven minutes from the end, secured them the point they needed to go through.

SPL
Hillstreet 0–1 Snubbeak Rock
FC Soessch 2–0 Port Patrick United
New Belfast Blues 4–3 Kings Park
Handon United 0–2 Port Sebastian
Hollin 1–5 Cornellians
Lammerton 1–0 Bara Waves
Kirk Preston United 0–0 Dundee
New Belfast Warriors 1–4 Port James Athletic
Mucusia 3–1 Marionville
La Gorlions 3–1 New Island

There is no more hotly contested match in the SPL than the Handon Derby. Port Sebastian really had a point to prove as they travelled to the south of the city to take on United, with their rivals' recent success a hard one to swallow. Things were made all the more interesting by the fact that Porty had suffered a humiliating opening day defeat at the hands of the Blues, which would not have sat well with the fans. On a match that saw seven yellow cards, it was the visitors who came out on top, scoring twice in the second half against the run of play. Two of the clubs new players, Heron Kendall and Alexander Alan combined well for the opener, after the former made a lung-bursting run from his own half. The Schottia cap found his Nepharim colleague at the back post, who then coolly tucked the ball past Shjegrzh Na'Kefir and into the bottom corner. As United pushed hard for an equaliser, MG Grumbla pulled off a couple of excellent saves to keep them at bay. First the Boney turned a Rachel Hellion freekick over the bar, before saving a Ragatta Aspenwood strike from point blank range. A late Porty breakaway saw Colin Loweson slide the ball through to substitute, Keeva Crowe, who was on hand to score the goal that killed the game off. For Nicolas Lars this result was massive, and will restore a lot of faith in him and his summer signings.

Cornellians put five goals past an opponent for the third time already this season, as Hollin were probably left wondering what hit them. The Eagles are looking slick and polished, with pace and strength in their ranks, and a deep playing squad. Isla Sibučić was once again a cut above, leaving the Hollin defence in tatters all afternoon. A first half double from Emil Eklund was already enough to put the tie beyond the home side, and despite Fred Dawson pulling on back for the Belker team, second half goals from Jade Irwin, Kathryn Kvanderwyk, and 20-year-old John Fyfe sealed a comfortable win.

Port James Athletic also continued their very strong start to the season; a 4-1 win away to New Belfast Warriors ensuring they stayed top of the league. There were worrying signs for the Whalers, as it would seem like new manager, Judy Scott, might have her work cut out, as she bids to turn the team around. Claire Beresford scored her first goal for Athletic, arriving late to hammer in from a well worked Yunji corner. There were also goals for Jack Hobs, Evangeline Querón and Pepe Edgar as the Seasiders ran riot for a second weekend in a row. Somuele der Pros did find the back of the net for the home side, but that alone will have done little to convince supporters.

Elsewhere: New Belfast Blues made it two big wins on the bounce, as a Nikki Temples double helped them to a 4-3 win over Kings Park. A long distance effort from Jasper Valaran gave Lammerton a 1-0 win over newly promoted Waves in the build up to their crunch Globe Cup tie. And FC Soessch eased some of their own UICA pain with a very good 2-0 win over Port Patrick United.

Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round
(CMT) Chromatik 2–1 Lammerton
Kings Park 0–1 Telecontarë (STB)

Two SPL managers suddenly had the heat turned up on them this week, as a brace of defeats in the Globe Cup will have left fans frustrated. Johnny Smith was under a lot of pressure to get Lammerton to the UICA group stages proper, and a 2-1 defeat to Chromatik will have made that suddenly much harder. Kings Park were another club that we had big hopes for this year, and a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat at home to Starblaydi side, Telecontarë, gives them a difficult job next week.

SPL
New Island 2–1 Hillstreet
Marionville 1–0 La Gorlions
Port James Athletic 2–3 Mucusia
Dundee 3–0 New Belfast Warriors
Bara Waves 0–2 Kirk Preston United
Cornellians 4–3 Lammerton
Port Sebastian 0–0 Hollin
Kings Park 2–3 Handon United
Port Patrick United 0–0 New Belfast Blues
Snubbeak Rock 1–0 FC Soessch

A truly rotten start to the season for Lammerton got even worse this week, as they threw away a 3-1 half time lead to lose to Cornellians at Lochend Stadium. The Hornets actually started out very well - seeming keen to put their midweek disappointment behind them - and really took the game to Cornellians in the opening half. Elspeth Glendening, turned in a cross from Raquel Naeher, after the Nepharim did well to bet the better of countryman, Maeon Vlahos. Kaytlyne Victoriane then doubled Lammerton's lead - much to surprise of three-quarters of the stadium - cutting in from the right to unleash her strike past Harry Gould. The Eagles seemed a little overwhelmed, but were always in the match, and Ed Lorrey had to be on his guard to turn a thunderous Jade Irwin effort out for a corner. The home side finally pulled one back, as Mershawn Mercury's mazy run took to he by-line, allowing him to cross for Kathryn Kvanderwyk to finish from close range. Lammerton got their heads back down, and restored their two goal lead, as a chip pass from Mars Alexanderson found Naeher in space to make it 3-1. From there on, it all seemed to unravel for Lammerton. The Eagles look to be capable of finding a whole other level this season, and the third Lammerton goal was the spur they needed to spring into action. Isla Sibučić was once again unplayable, as she skipped three challenges before sliding the ball across to Emil Eklund for 3-2, and then scored her sixth in five matches, chipping the outrushing Lorrey pull her side level. Cornellians recovery was complete with five minute to go, when a floated cross forward from Triffid Ramsey drifted in behind a frustrated Ezequiel Marchiondo, allowing Eklund to hammer home his second of the afternoon.

Handon United were another side who had to overcome a difficult afternoon; in this case, while paying a visit to Kings Park. The Royals are a real force going forward and United struggled - particularly in the wide areas - to deal with the pace of McCorralie and Ashbrown. The Champions stuck to their guns however, and amidst a turbulent second half, goals from Daniel Dolstalok and Dilon Bánach were enough to get them over the line in one piece.

Kirk Preston were a side tipped to do well this season, and the New Belfast side got their first win this week. Ross Killanen's side comfortably beat Bara Waves 2-0, and the winning margin perhaps should have been far greater, with both Ian Long and Matilda Weiss passing up excellent opportunities in the second half. As it was, goals from Oskar Holst and Afton Prichard had to be enough, as Bara continue to find the step up to the SPL very difficult.

In other matches: Hollin managed to hold Port Sebastian to a 0-0 draw at Dyerton Stadium, a result likely to put manger Nicolas Lars under renewed pressure. A Jessica Grey header was enough to give Marionville a first SPL win on their return. And Three goals for Dundee meant that there was no reprieve for the Warriors, another club finding themselves under flack.

Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round
Lammerton 3-2 Chromatik (CMT)
(STB) Telecontarë 0-0 Kings Park

Despite positive results, neither of Schottia's Globe Cup hopefuls were able to join Port Sebastian in the group draw of the tournament. Although they managed a win at home to Chromatik, Lammerton were cruelly eliminated on away goals, whereas Kings Park failed to find the goal that would have overturned their 1-0 defeat as they travelled to Telecontarë.

SPL
Hillstreet 2–2 FC Soessch
New Belfast Blues 4–1 Snubbeak Rock
Handon United 4–2 Port Patrick United
Hollin 0–0 Kings Park
Lammerton 2–0 Port Sebastian
Kirk Preston United 2–4 Cornellians
New Belfast Warriors 0–1 Bara Waves
Mucusia 2–0 Dundee
La Gorlions 2–1 Port James Athletic
New Island 2–3 Marionville

The pick of this weekend's matches was undoubtedly the all Handon fixture between United and Port Patrick. The derbies are coming think and fast for Jane Gullie's side right now, and given the difficulties they had in the previous two, the Breakers could not be underestimated. United handed a first start to 20-year-old Apoxian, Magdalen Demetrius, and the Centre of Excellence star caused the visitors a lot of problems down the right wing. It was on the left, however, that United made the breakthrough in this match, with Regatta Aspenwood going the long way round Maria Young en route to the by-line. The former Southfell United girl then did well in picking out Daniel Dolstalok lurking around the penalty area to give their side the lead. United followed that up with goals from Natalie Adams, and a second for Dostalok, where as Port Patrick had Chase Ziegenhorn and Demba Traore to thank for keeping them in the match. In the closing stages of the match, Aspenwood added one herself to wrap up all three points for the reigning champions.

Marionville and New Island played out an end-to-end match up at The Rock Ground, as the Boys made it two wins from two. Seventeen-year-old striker Jack Avelione got the ball rolling, rising highest to flick a Dawn Morham cross past Lenore Drummond to open the scoring. There were goals Herlinda Sterling, Enid Gil and Circe Rosenthal as and action packed second half saw the lead change hands a number of times. Marionville had the final say, however, as Rosenthal cleverly picked out Andy Bell's forward run, allowing the 22-year-old to thread through to Avelione for his second.

Neither Lammerton nor Port Sebastian could afford to leave with anything other than a win. Both sides had had mixed results so far, both had young managers eager not fall under pressure, and both knew that defeat here could see them fall off the pace. It was Lammerton who grabbed the advantage, and their central midfield three seemed to fair better than their opposite numbers, allowing the home side to get a stranglehold on the game. The quietly effective Robard Horvat was both quiet and effective, doing the simple stuff well, and keeping the game ticking over. Raquel Naeher has actually looked very good this season, since being pushed forward into a more advanced role. More of a sprinter than a distance runner, she used all her acceleration to latch onto a Jasper Valaran ball for the side's first. This was a match where Porty struggled to create chances, with a hit-and-hope for Alexander Alan, coming back off the post, the best they had to show for ninety minutes of football. Lammerton made sure of all three points as Kaytlyne Victoriane unselfishly cut the ball across for Elspeth Glendening to finish into an empty net.

In other results: Somebody stop Cornellians, because the look in danger of running away with this, as another four goals helped them to a handsome win at Kirk Preston United. NBB are another side who have made a strong start; this week a Lasse Schnarnberg double helped them to a 4-1 win over Snubbeak Rock. And finally an Abigail Teris goal gave Bara Waves a first ever SPL win over New Belfast Warriors.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month One

Player: Isla Sibučić -- Cornellians
Cosumar are waxing lyrical about this 20-year-old right now, and it's very easy to see why. Sibučić combines a deadly directness with a grace and fluidity that is quite staggering. The SPL has played home to some top-class players in the UICA era, but this young woman the potential to rise to rise all the way to the very top of the game.

Young Player: Charlotte Ünterhausen -- New Belfast Blues
The Blues' start to the season has been nothing short of extraordinary, as they have already put some clear daylight between themselves and the sides fighting it out at the bottom. Charlotte Ünterhausen has always lived under the large shadow cast by her elder brothers, but perhaps now, with these sorts of performances, she can make a name for herself in her own right.

Manager: Chris Okywä -- New Belfast Blues
This award will mean a lot to a young manager, who has taken the Blues a long way in his time in charge. Whether they can keep it up or not is another thing, but this is certainly a strong start to the season.

SPL
Marionville 2–3 Hillstreet
Port James Athletic 4–0 New Island
Dundee 4–2 La Gorlions
Bara Waves 1–1 Mucusia
Cornellians 2–4 New Belfast Warriors
Port Sebastian 1–0 Kirk Preston United
Kings Park 0–0 Lammerton
Port Patrick United 2–0 Hollin
Snubbeak Rock 0–1 Handon United
FC Soessch 3–1 New Belfast Blues

Dundee produced the stand-out performance of the week, putting four goals past the normally very tight, La Gorlions. The Panners have looked good going forward under new boss Walter Queen, obviously a stark contrast to the Johnny Smith days. Mark Keane was a real menace throughout the match, and the young, Dundee born winger, epitomised what was good about his team's performance, showing both style and end-product. Kean scored one and set up one, as the home side ran out deserved winners. Poppy Fayrkirk was also on target, as the defender proved to be another strong performer.

Port Sebastian rode their luck in their match with Kirk Preston United, but in the end, got the result they badly needed. It was by no means a flawless performance, but despite being second best for much of the game, a Heron Kendall strike was enough to earn Porty their first win at home this season. Eloisa Purinton failed to connect cleanly with a Paul Doig long throw, however the ball fell kindly for Kendall, who fired home low under the keeper to score her second goal of the season. Nothing is really going Kirk Preston's way right now, and on top of a score of missed chances in the second half, video evidence would suggest that they should have had a penalty after Oskar Holst was floored in the box.

Probably none of us quite expected the result at Ashley Road, as the Warriors got their season underway at last with a sensational win over Cornellians. Jack Jevđenijević proved what some hype is about as he scored one either side of half time as part of a very strong performance from the teenager. It wasn't that Cornellians played particularly badly, but they made key mistakes at the back, which ended up costing them. A 4-2 defeat looks bad on paper, and there is no doubt that The Eagles' pride will be wounded after riding high until now. How they respond to this will be important.

Elsewhere: Hillstreet put in a very impressive performance on the road, scoring two late goals beat Marionville 3-2. Despite several good chances at both ends, UICA hopefuls, Kings Park and Lammerton, played out an underwhelming 0-0 draw. And goals from David Hughes, either side of half time, were the difference as FC Soessch recorded a 3-1 home win over highflying NBB.

SPL
Hillstreet 2–4 New Belfast Blues
Handon United 3–1 FC Soessch
Hollin 1–2 Snubbeak Rock
Lammerton 2–1 Port Patrick United
Kirk Preston United 1–2 Kings Park
New Belfast Warriors 0–1 Port Sebastian
Mucusia 0–0 Cornellians
La Gorlions 0–1 Bara Waves
New Island 0–1 Dundee
Marionville 0–1 Port James Athletic

Of all the championship contenders, you would say Handon United look the most comfortable at the moment. FC Soessch are no slouches, but United looked in total control, as the two goal winning margin could have easily been greater. The home side raced to a two goal lead, with goals from Regatta Aspenwood and Christian Lovenkrands. Aspenwood connected with a low cross from Louis Hordern to burry the ball at the back post, before Lovenkrands left Alexi Ceanadach for dead to double the side's lead with a thunderous effort. Soessch pulled one back in the second half, thanks to a speculative effort from Groaré Sasca, which snuck in under the crossbar. United never really looked in any real danger of throwing it away though, and as 18-year-old Solomon Johnson their third with ten minutes left on the clock, there was no way back for the North Island side.

Another slender, hard-fought victory for Port Sebastian, but they all count. Once more we saw the Handon side struggle to get to grips with their opponents, riding their luck for long periods of time. The Warriors came into the match fresh from their highly impressive win over Cornellians, and looked keen to take another major scalp in quick succession. Tomás Fierro rattled the crossbar early on, and only Jack Jevđenijević will know how he missed the target after brilliantly side-stepping Erwin MacNeil before firing just wide. The symmetry with the Kirk Preston game was complete, when Heron Kendall got a toe to a Roisin Carroll cross to poke the ball past the outstretched Nerio Teran for the only goal of the game. Porty are perhaps showing us that they are made of steely stuff, as two 1-0 wins they had no right to have left them just three points off the top of the table after six matches.

Dundee remain top of the SPL table, as their incredible start to the season continued with a 1-0 win at New Island. Walter Queen had a tough job to do following on from the very successful Johnny Smith as Panners manager, but with four wins from six matches, you'd have to say he's taking it in his stride. Dundee seem to have now added goals to their game, and it was testament to their attacking threat, that they were able to take home all three points against a New Island side who seemed hell-bent on leaving with a nil-nil draw. Chris Davis, Mark Keane and Heidi Spearing were all outstanding going forward from the midfield, displaying great patience and inventiveness. The only goal of the game came just after the hour, with Spearing capping off an excellent forward run with a well-taken goal.

In other matches: A late goal from Kaytlyne Victoriane gave Lammerton a home win over struggling Port Patrick United. Athletic stay fourth on twelve points, as a Derick Mason goal was enough to guide them past Marionville. And New Belfast Warriors stay second on goal difference, as Lasse Schnarnberg continues to adjust well to life in Schottia, scoring his fifth and sixth goals in six matches.

.                         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Dundee                  6    4   1   1    11    4   +7    13
 2 New Belfast Blues       6    4   1   1    14    9   +5    13
 3 Handon United           6    4   1   1    13    9   +4    13
 4 Port James Athletic     6    4   0   2    16    6  +10    12
 5 Cornellians             6    3   2   1    17   12   +5    11
 6 Mucusia                 6    3   2   1    11    7   +4    11
 7 Port Sebastian          6    3   1   2     4    3   +1    10
 8 Lammerton               6    3   1   2     8    8    0    10
 9 Snubbeak Rock           6    3   1   2     6    7   −1    10
10 La Gorlions             6    3   0   3     9    8   +1     9
11 FC Soessch              6    2   2   2    10    9   +1     8
12 Marionville             6    2   1   3     8   10   −2     7
13 Bara Waves              6    2   1   3     3    6   −3     7
14 Kings Park              6    1   3   2     9   10   −1     6
15 New Island              6    2   0   4     8   14   −6     6
16 Port Patrick United     6    1   2   3     6    9   −3     5
17 Hollin                  6    1   2   3     4    9   −5     5
18 Hillstreet              6    1   1   4     8   13   −5     4
19 New Belfast Warriors    6    1   1   4     6   12   −6     4
20 Kirk Preston United     6    1   1   4     5   11   −6     4

First Division

.                         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 FC Döllar               6    5   0   1    14    8   +6    15
 2 Lammerton City          6    4   1   1     9    4   +5    13
 3 Stalker Bay             6    4   0   2    11    6   +5    12
 4 Lammerton Eels          6    4   0   2    12    9   +3    12
 5 Granton Vale            6    3   2   1     9    6   +3    11
   West Coast Warriors     6    3   2   1     9    6   +3    11
 7 Jena VB                 6    3   2   1     8    5   +3    11
 8 Lochend Town            6    3   1   2    10    6   +4    10
 9 Handon North            6    2   3   1     6    4   +2     9
10 Berwick United          6    3   0   3    12   11   +1     9
11 Central Stars           6    2   1   3    11    9   +2     7
12 D'Itille                6    2   1   3    10   10    0     7
13 West Holbrookdale       6    2   1   3     6    7   −1     7
14 Marionville Thistle     6    2   1   3     7   10   −3     7
15 Toll Cross Academy      6    2   0   4     9   12   −3     6
16 Lammerton Wonderers     6    2   0   4     7   12   −5     6
17 Soessch 1990            6    1   2   3     9   13   −4     5
18 University of Handon    6    1   2   3     7   13   −6     5
19 Wolbeck                 6    1   1   4    11   18   −7     4
20 Oak Park Celtic         6    1   0   5     5   13   −8     3

by **Schottia** » Fri Jan 19, 2018 12:56 am

Matchday Seven - Twelve & UICA Group Phase

SPL
Port James Athletic 3–2 Hillstreet
Dundee 1–2 Marionville
Bara Waves 1–1 New Island
Cornellians 3–4 La Gorlions
Port Sebastian 4–3 Mucusia
Kings Park 1–2 New Belfast Warriors
Port Patrick United 1–0 Kirk Preston United
Snubbeak Rock 0–0 Lammerton
FC Soessch 1–0 Hollin
New Belfast Blues 1–4 Handon United

Handon United went top this week, with a 4-1 win over highflyers, New Belfast Blues. It was the latest in what has become an impressive streak of wins for Jane Gullie's side, as the early form book would suggest they might be on course for yet another league title. United came out of blocks strongly, with Dilon Bánach setting up Daniel Dostalok for the opener after only eight minutes. With the home side clearly reeling, the Mercedinian made it two, moments later, getting his head on the end of a Natalie Adams freekick. The Blues were treading water by this stage, and had John Fallen to thank for denying Regatta Aspenwood a real goal of the season contender, turning her thirty-metre effort just wide. Tom Sanchez pulled one back against the run of play, but United were ruthlessly efficient in the closing stages, with Adams adding a third before Aspenwood finally got her name on the score sheet.

United's rivals, Port Sebastian, also moved back up the table to fifth, following an enthralling match with Mucusia at Dyerton Stadium. Porty have uncharacteristically been finding goals hard to come by this season, so the four they scored in this match will come as welcome relief. Slightly more worrying however, will be the fact that they conceded three at the other end, and once again, did not look wholly convincing. Some great play from Vera Cummings set Eloisa Purinton through for the opener, with Heron Kendall and adding a second and third for the Handon side, after Aimée Hétu had initially pulled the visitors level. A long-distance effort from 20-year-old, Tom Killincic, pulled another one back for Mucusia, but as substitute Keeve Crowe scored Porty's fourth, it was clear there was little way back.

Something seems to have gone worryingly wrong at Lochend Park, with what looked like a momentary blip for the six-times champions, suddenly developing into real slump in form. With respect to La Gorlions, they are not the calibre of opponent the Cornellians would expect to struggle against at home - but struggle they most certainly did. New girl, Andrya Novkovic, has been quietly going about her business for the Lions this season, and the player of Anglaitian birth really took the fight to the Eagles in the opening forty-five. On another day goals from Emil Eklund (2) and Dragora Steelheng would have been enough for Cornellians to take something from the game, but a late Kirsten Gemmill goal earned La Gorlions a famous win.

Elsewhere: Lammerton were forced to endure a torrid afternoon on the New Island, as Snubbeak parked the bus for a 0-0 draw. A late header from Alexander Pearce jr. gave Marionville all three points as they took on top of the table Dundee. And the Warriors lifted themselves up and away from the bottom of the table with a 2-1 win away to Kings Park.

SPL
Hillstreet 0–2 Handon United
Hollin 1–1 New Belfast Blues
Lammerton 1–1 FC Soessch
Kirk Preston United 2–0 Snubbeak Rock
New Belfast Warriors 2–1 Port Patrick United
Mucusia 0–3 Kings Park
La Gorlions 0–1 Port Sebastian
New Island 1–1 Cornellians
Marionville 4–1 Bara Waves
Port James Athletic 1–2 Dundee

Marionville eased their way further up the table with a 4-1 win over fellow newly promoted side, Bara Waves. The home team might be nicknamed 'The Boys,' but it was the girls who grabbed the headlines. Young Nepharim duo, Laura Carrow and Circe Rosenthal never gave the Waves midfield a look in all afternoon, with Rosenthal in particular creating a lot of problems for the visitors to deal with. The former Morningstar playmaker, threaded through Jess Grey for the opener, before drawing on the foul which allowed Jack Avelione to convert from the spot for the side's second. Osarian, Grey, then headed in a Dawn Morham corner for number three, before Pasargan, Vojnomir Nikolic completed the rout in the closing stages. A precise ball forward from young Cenian right back, Pablo Altamirano, allowed Nikolic through one-on-one, to tuck away what was the pick of the side's goals. While Sarina Neville pulled one back for Bara, it will have done little to paint this as anything other than a humbling defeat for the Handon team.

You don't normally think of Dundee verses Port James Athletic as a top of the table clash, but this statement perhaps says a lot about the current season. Both sides have been on top form in so far, and this promised to be an absolute cracker as they met at the City of Port James Stadium. After what was a cagey start, Dundee drew first blood, as Sett Horn got on the end of a hopeful punt forward from Jim Gerrish to finish past Brendan Hammer. Athletic responded well though, with young Anna Meyreani, once again, the team's shinning light going forward. The former New St Johns teenager totally outfoxed Catheline Chaplain just after half time, before squaring the ball, to present Jack Hobbs with the easiest of tap-ins. The home side had chances to wrap things up, with Pepe Edgar heading just over from a Meyreani corner, while Evangeline Querón saw a shot well saved. But Dundee seem to be the team with the momentum right now, and after a run from Chris Davis split the defence wide open, Wallace Solway was on hand to deliver the knockout blow.

Turning our attentions to the bottom of the table, Kirk Preston got some much needed points on the board, with a solid home win over Snubbeak. Their performance against Porty last month suggests that there is a lot more to come from the Holy Men, and today, we got a glimpse of the team we saw towards the end of last season. A fantastic forward ball from Oskar Holst sent Leopoldo Ramirez racing through for what was only his second goal of the season. Farf striker, Holst, also had a big hand in the second, holding off some strong challenges before teeing up Ian Long for a pile-driver of a strike to settle the match.

In other matches: Billy McCorallie and Meghan Hartsdown were the stars of the show as Kings Park earned a vital 3-0 win over Mucusia. Handon United were once again on easy street, with a 2-0 win over the Hunters. And, despite the drama, Lammerton and FC Soessch had to be content with a share of the points in their 1-1 draw.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Two

Player: Mark Keane -- Dundee
A quick and powerful winger who is likely playing himself into contention for a full Schottia call up with this kind of form. Most of us were predicting a tricky season for Dundee, but Keane seems like a player who has the potential to reverse that.

Young Player: Circe Rosenthal -- Marionville
The classy young Nepharim playmaker kind of epitomises this new look Marionville. Bursting with creativity, work rate, and a determination do things differently - she is a microcosm of the team itself.

Manager: Jane Gullie -- Handon United
Gullie's Handon United are looking tough, well oiled, and ruthlessly efficient. At this very moment, it would take a brave person to bet against them retaining their title.

Champions' Cup -- Group Phase
(CMT) Tihon 1-2 Handon United
Cornellinas 1-1 Mâ Âlâmëómë (FFD)

Handon United's bid to lift the Champions' Cup got off to a good start with a 2-1 over Tihon in Chromatika. With a capacity of close to a hundred thousand, The Tidal Wave is no easy place to go and get a result. United put in a disciplined performance though, and two second half goals from Natalie Adams and Daniel Dostalok got them three valuable points on the board. Regatta Aspenwood was the architect of the first goal, racing into the box before finding Mercedinian, Dostalok, who simply doesn't miss from ten metres out. Danica Farrier pulled a goal back for the home side, but a Adams curled home a freekick with ten minutes left on the clock to restore United's lead. Cornellians had to negotiate the ever tricky Mâ Âlâmëómë in their first match, of course welcoming Eoin Killanen back to Schottia. The Eagles are not on song at the minute and this showed as they required a last gasp equaliser from Isla Sibučić to salvage a point from the game.

Globe Cup -- Group Phase
(SOL) Cherrygrove City 2-1 Port Sebastian

Port Sebastian were another side who failed to get the start they wanted, loosing 2-1 to Cherrygrove City. Despite a fantastic goal from Eloisa Purinton twenty minutes in, Porty conceded two in the second half, as they were forced to fly home empty-handed.

Series B -- Group Phase
Marionville 0-0 Cenial Liberty (CEN)

There wasn't really a lot to say about Marionville's 0-0 draw with Cenial Liberty. The Division One champions were unable to make much headway against the Cenian side, and a draw would seem fair on reflection.

SPL
Dundee 1–0 Hillstreet
Bara Waves 0–1 Port James Athletic
Cornellians 0–0 Marionville
Port Sebastian 2–0 New Island
Kings Park 4–0 La Gorlions
Port Patrick United 1–0 Mucusia
Snubbeak Rock 0–1 New Belfast Warriors
FC Soessch 1–3 Kirk Preston United
New Belfast Blues 3–2 Lammerton
Handon United 5–1 Hollin

Port Sebastian haven't been easy on the eye this season but they are getting results, and there were signs, this weekend, that the performances might be heading in the right direction too. Colin Loweson and Heron Kendall seem to be growing in stature at the moment, and that much was evident this match, where New Island struggled to keep up with the pace. Kendall stung the palms of Lenore Drummond in the first half, after getting on the end of an Alexander Alan cross. The Nepharim then beautifully set up Gloriaxian strike partner, Eloise Purinton to open the scoring from close range. Porty were dominant in the second half, as they went searching for the killer second. Roisin Carroll blazed a shot just wide, and Purinton came close to a second, before Kendall put the game to bed. A good forward run from Esther Abner drew the Pebbles defence out of position, before a quick passing exchange resulted in Kendell finding possession inside the area, with all the time in the world to find the back of the net.

Handon United opened up yet more clear water are between themselves and Cornellians this week, as they strolled to a 5-1 win over Hollin. The visitors looked poor - there's two ways about it - and United won this one at a canter. The back four of Cottle, Finnan, Hamilton, and Hordern were immense, giving Shjegrzh Na'Kefir a quiet afternoon in United goal. At the other end they were clinical as ever, using their razor sharp pace and direct attacking play cut Hollin apart time after time. Magdalen Demetrius produced a hattrick of second half assists as the young Apoxian continues to develop. It was Daniel Dostalok and Regatta Aspenwood who did the damage however, looking more like a conventional front-two this week, as they bagged two apiece. Fellow substitutes Solomon Johnson, and Christian Lovenkrads combined for the fifth, the latter playing in the former to blast home from a tight angle.

In what was generally a pretty good week for the Handon sides, Kings Park put in a ruthless performance to sink four past La Gorlions for no reply. The Royals front three of Ashbrown, McCorralie, and Corvell are proving extremely difficult for teams to get to grips with, and the normally resolute Lions back line had a lot of problems getting to grips with the trio. Cenian central midfielder, Sendoa, was also immense in the second half, and as well as being heavily involved in much of the build-up play, got himself on the score sheet in the process.

In other matches: Cornellians were held to a 0-0 draw by a backs-to-the-wall Marionville. An Oskar Holst double gave Kirk Preston an impressive 3-1 win away to FC Soessch. And Dundee kept themselves in the title hunt, as a Sett Horn goal was enough to help them edge past Hillstreet.

Champions' Cup -- Group Phase
Handon United 2-0 Crisisbless (NPH)
(COS) Real Azuris 4-0 Cornellians

The fortunes of Schottia's two Champions' Cup sides could not have been more different this week. Handon United kept up their excellent winning run with an impressive win over Crisisbless at Harbour Hill Stadium. Chromatik star, Rachel Hellion, capped a good performance by scoring the side's second goal from a set piece. Cornellians on the other hand, were torn apart by Cosumarite side, Real Azuris, a result the Lochend club will be desperate to forget.

Globe Cup -- Group Phase
Port Sebastian 2-0 Cassandra City (COS)

Port Sebastian were able to avenge their countrymen somewhat, with a convincing win over Cassandra City. A 2-0 win against the Cosumarite giants is a great result, even at home, and this was arguably Porty's best performance of the season. Eloisa Purinton's corner found the head of Paul Doig for the first goal of the game, before Vera Cummings applied the end product following a mazy run for number two.

Series B -- Group Phase
Marionville 1-2 Shamrock Cathair (AUD)

Marionville still seem to be struggling to adjust to this season's increased schedule, and their performance against Audioslavian side, Shamrock Cathair, had a laboured feel to it.

SPL
Hillstreet 1–1 Hollin
Lammerton 4–2 Handon United
Kirk Preston United 1–2 New Belfast Blues
New Belfast Warriors 5–2 FC Soessch
Mucusia 2–2 Snubbeak Rock
La Gorlions 1–0 Port Patrick United
New Island 4–3 Kings Park
Marionville 1–0 Port Sebastian
Port James Athletic 2–4 Cornellians
Dundee 5–0 Bara Waves

What a relief it must have been for Reinhard Shale after the final whistle blew at the City of Port James Stadium. Cornellians' inexplicable dive in form would be troubling for any team, but given expectations of the board, it could be fatal for the Nepharim's career. Port James, by contrast, are having one of their best seasons in years, and Jimmy Mitchel's side would have been quietly confident going into this one. It was Cornellians who grabbed the initiative though, as Kit Kvanderwyk picked out Emil Eklund for the opener. Cornellians were pegged back twice in what was an action packed first half, which saw the teams head up the half-time tunnel with the scores locked at 2-2. The visitors must have sensed the urgency of their situation though, as they returned much improved in the second half. Jade Irwin restored their lead, pouncing on a clever lay off from Johannas Ünterhausen. Isla Sibučić then sealed the deal, chipping Brendan Hammer from just inside the area for her side's fourth.

The Eagles will have been given further cause for hope, as the seemingly invincible Handon United stumbled to defeat in Lammerton. The Hornets have been good in spits and spurts this season, and you could see just how determined the team were to get their season off ground with a win over the champions. Mars Alexandersson and Jasper Valaran were the creative energy at the heart of this performance, while the forwards once again did the damage up front. Naeher and Victorian were able to exploit a lack of pace in the centre of the United defence, with both women getting on the score sheet in this win. There was also a good performance from Farf teenager, Ezequiel Marchiondo, who despite his recklessness, certainly provides a spark in the wide areas.

Meanwhile, Dundee went top on goal difference following a 5-0 thumping of Bara Waves. It was impossible to watch this match at feel anything other than pity for the newly promoted side, who were more or less battered off the pitch by the far more physical Panners. Watching Sett Horn in attack is a little like watching a wrecking ball being swung at the backline. With players who can deliver the ball from the wide areas, it was little wonder the Cosumarite ended up scoring a hattrick in what was an emphatic win.

In other results: Jack Jevđenijević and Somuele der Pros scored two apiece, as the Warriors defeated FC Soessch 5-2. Jack Avelione's goal for Marionville brought to an end Port Sebastian's unbeaten run. And New Island will have surprised a few people with a 4-3 win over on from Kings Park.

Champions' Cup -- Group Phase
(NGD) Lexington Victory 2-0 Handon United
Cornellians 0-4 Phalanx AF (CEN)

Zero points, zero goals scored, and six conceded... should we read on? It was just one of those nights in football. Neither of Schottia's Champions' Cup teams played anywhere close to the top of their game, and that is suicide when facing top opposition.

Globe Cup -- Group Phase
(VAL) FC Capri 1-2 Port Sebastian

Port Sebastian had a little more luck in their Globe Cup tie with FC Capri. The north Handon team responded well to going a goal down inside the first fifteen minutes, coming back to win 2-1. Roisin Carroll gave them a slither of hope as her distance effort crept in at the far post, before substitute Keeva Crowe decided matters with headed goal late in the second half.

Series B -- Group Phase
(NGD) Astrolabe 2-1 Marionville

There was also another 2-1 defeat for Marionville in the Series B, as their chances of repeating NBB's achievements now look slim. Jessica Grey scored for the Boys late on, but they were never really in the match.

SPL
Bara Waves 1–4 Hillstreet
Cornellians 1–0 Dundee
Port Sebastian 3–3 Port James Athletic
Kings Park 1–0 Marionville
Port Patrick United 2–1 New Island
Snubbeak Rock 0–3 La Gorlions
FC Soessch 3–0 Mucusia
New Belfast Blues 0–2 New Belfast Warriors
Handon United 0–0 Kirk Preston United
Hollin 0–1 Lammerton

Port Sebastian missed out on the opportunity to go equal second, just a point behind their rivals United, as they conceded a late goal at home to Port James. This looked like it should be a great match up on paper, and two of the league's on form sides didn't disappoint in that regard. Anna Meyreani continues to catch the eye, and the 17-year-old left Paul Doig for dead before crossing the ball for Derick Mason to open the scoring. At the other end, a superb effort from Heron Kendall (a player who seems to really be settling in now) pulled the home side level just on the stroke of half time. After the break it was Porty's turn to get their noses in front, and as Colin Loweson connected with a Doig long-throw, there was only ever going to be one outcome. Late goals from Yunji and Alexander Alan meant it was 3-2 to the home side going into the closing stages, only for Meyreani score from close range to ensure both teams shared the points.

Dundee came within a whisker of taking something from their match with Cornellians, as they looked to stay top of the table. The Panners players earn barely a fraction of what their opponents take home as a wage, but you wouldn't have thought it watch this match. The visitors passed up great chances to take the lead in the fist half, with Wallace Solway aiming just wide, and Heidi Spearing having a shot well saved by Harry Gould. Perhaps money does buy you a little bit of luck though, as Cornellians scored the only goal of the game, to move back to within spitting distance of the UICA spots. Jade Irwin did well to pick out Mershaw Mercury wide left, allowing the Echani winger to deliver the killer ball, which Kathryn Kvanerwyk was able to knock past Alan Städtischer-Young.

FC Soessch have had their ups and downs this season, but they looked very much in control as they brushed aside Mucusia at Gannon Park. Sarah Foucault cut a lonely figure up front on the return to her former club, as Die Rote Teufel looked utterly dominant. Kerstin Dornenberger opened the scoring for Soessch, before second half goals from Groaré Sasca and James Inescourt brought the curtain down on an impressive team performance.

Elsewhere: A sublime Meghan Hartsdown strike gave Kings Park all three points as they took on Marionville. There were some meaty challenges flying in, as Kirk Preston brought Handon United's winning streak to an end with a 0-0 draw at Harbour Hill. And Eslpeth Glendining got her head to a Jasper Valaran cross to score the only goal of the game as Lammeton defeated Hollin.

SPL
Hillstreet 1–1 Lammerton
Kirk Preston United 0–0 Hollin
New Belfast Warriors 1–2 Handon United
Mucusia 2–1 New Belfast Blues
La Gorlions 0–0 FC Soessch
New Island 5–2 Snubbeak Rock
Marionville 2–0 Port Patrick United
Port James Athletic 3–0 Kings Park
Dundee 0–0 Port Sebastian
Bara Waves 1–0 Cornellians

With twelve matchdays played, the SPL top six certainly had an unusual look to it. Port James Athletic moved back up to third as they swept aside the much-fancied King Park, in an impressive display. The Royals aren’t the first team to have fallen foul of the Athletic attack this season, which has chipped in 29 goals in 12 games. Jack Hobbs moved to the front of the race for the golden boot, his double in this match taking him to nine goals for the season. The 29-year-old's form has prompted rumours that he might be in line for a Schottia call up in the up coming IAC IV. Anna Meyreani is another who may find herself thrust into the Schottia set up, and the teenager was once again immense as she scored her fifth goal of the season. As for Kings Park..? They were pretty poor, and Raven Cullen will no doubt have had strong words with her players.

Handon United took the opportunity to pull a full three points clear of Dundee at the top of the table with a 2-1 win over a Warriors side that never stopped fighting for the full ninety minutes. United finally broke the deadlock at the end of a tense first forty-five, as Christian Lovenkrands showed a ferocious turn of pace to apply the finish to a Natalie Adams through-ball. The real battle in this match was between midfielders, and Rachel Hellion and Tomás Feirro were key figures for their respective sides. The Whalers gave themselves a lifeline Iana Synder latched onto a cross from Lavender Jameson to level the scores with twenty minutes to go. United responded well to the goal, however, and both Nagisa Habane and Magdalen Demetrius went close, before Regatta Aspenwood fired home the winner.

Marionville also found themselves up to fifth in the table - their 2-0 win over Port Patrick the latest in a long line of strong performances this season. The Boys switched Jack Avelione out to the left side of midfield, where the teenager on loan from Bastion looked a lot more at home. Avelione was the architect of the opening goal in fact, surging past Robbie McSuol before picking out the forward run of Circe Rosenthal, who coolly applied the finish. Port Patrick are in trouble this season, and really need to put some points on the board quick. Marionville hammered in the final nail, as Scott Del Barbaroa connected with Pablo Altamirano's cross for the side's second.

In other results: Bara Waves pulled off one of the biggest shocks in SPL history as Marina Raburne's goal gave them a win over six times champions, Cornellians. A double from Herlinda Sterling helped New Island to a vital win over Snubbeak Rock. And a late goal from Raquel Naeher salvaged a point for Lammerton at Hillstreet.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Three

Player: Somuele der Pros -- New Belfast Warriors
It's been a very good month for the Warriors, right when they needed it most. Der Pros has been a cut above the rest for the New Belfast club since his arrival, and the Farf cap has really started to assert himself as one of the best midfielders in the league.

Young Player: Sett Horn -- Dundee
It's been a fairytale start to the season for Dundee, and Horn is one of the players who has really thrived under Walter Queen's management. In terms of his physical attributes he is already second to none amongst the strikers in the SPL.

Manager: Walter Queen -- Dundee
Walter Queen has done a fantastic job since stepping into the vacancy left by Johnny Smith. Dundee have been punching above their weight for years now, and this could be the season they really achieve something.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Handon United          12    8   2   2    28   16  +12    26
 2 Dundee                 12    7   2   3    20    8  +12    23
 3 Port James Athletic    12    7   1   4    29   17  +12    22
 4 Port Sebastian         12    6   3   3    14   10   +4    21
 5 Marionville            12    6   2   4    17   13   +4    20
 6 New Belfast Blues      12    6   2   4    22   21   +1    20
 7 Cornellians            12    5   4   3    26   20   +6    19
 8 Lammerton              12    5   4   3    17   15   +2    19
 9 New Belfast Warriors   12    6   1   5    19   18   +1    19
10 La Gorlions            12    6   1   5    17   16   +1    19
11 FC Soessch             12    4   4   4    18   18    0    16
12 Kings Park             12    4   3   5    21   19   +2    15
13 Mucusia                12    4   3   5    18   21   −3    15
14 Port Patrick United    12    4   2   6    11   15   −4    14
15 New Island             12    4   2   6    20   25   −5    14
16 Kirk Preston United    12    3   3   6    11   15   −4    12
17 Snubbeak Rock          12    3   3   6    10   20  −10    12
18 Bara Waves             12    3   2   7     7   21  −14    11
19 Hillstreet             12    2   3   7    16   22   −6     9
20 Hollin                 12    1   5   6     7   18  −11     8

First Division

.                         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Granton Vale           12    9   2   1    24    7  +17    29
 2 Lammerton City         12    9   2   1    23    7  +16    29
 3 FC Döllar              12    8   1   3    20   14   +6    25
 4 West Coast Warriors    12    6   4   2    22   14   +8    22
 5 Lochend Town           12    7   1   4    24   17   +7    22
 6 Stalker Bay            12    7   1   4    20   13   +7    22
 7 West Holbrookdale      12    7   1   4    17   11   +6    22
 8 Berwick United         12    7   1   4    19   16   +3    22
 9 Lammerton Eels         12    6   2   4    23   21   +2    20
10 Handon North           12    5   3   4    17   14   +3    18
11 Jena VB                12    4   3   5    14   18   −4    15
12 Marionville Thistle    12    4   3   5    21   26   −5    15
13 D'Itille               12    4   2   6    16   17   −1    14
14 Soessch 1990           12    3   3   6    18   22   −4    12
15 Central Stars          12    3   2   7    18   21   −3    11
16 Oak Park Celtic        12    3   2   7    13   22   −9    11
17 Wolbeck                12    3   1   8    20   33  −13    10
18 Lammerton Wonderers    12    3   0   9    16   27  −11     9
19 University of Handon   12    2   2   8    12   25  −13     8
20 Toll Cross Academy     12    2   0  10    14   26  −12     6

Schottic Cup -- Round of Thirty-two
Kirk Preston United 0–0 Central Stars (0–1 AET)
FC Soessch 1–1 Mucusia (1–1 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Dundee 2–2 Lammerton (2–2 AET) (2–4 pen.)
West Holbrookdale 1–0 Bara Waves
D'Itille 1–2 Berwick United
Granton Vale 3–0 Hollin
Regional Development Side B 4–1 Regional Development Side A
La Gorlions 1–0 Snubbeak Rock
Cornellians 0–2 West Coast Warriors
Lochend Town 3–1 FC Döllar
Lammerton City 0–1 New Belfast Blues
Port James Athletic 2–3 Port Sebastian
Kings Park 3–3 Hillstreet (5–3 AET)
New Island 3–0 Handon North
Handon United 1–0 Port Patrick United
Marionville 1–0 New Belfast Warriors

by **Schottia** » Sat Jan 20, 2018 6:31 am

Matchday Thirteen - Eighteen & UICA Group Phase

SPL
Cornellians 3–0 Hillstreet
Port Sebastian 2–0 Bara Waves
Kings Park 3–0 Dundee
Port Patrick United 0–2 Port James Athletic
Snubbeak Rock 1–2 Marionville
FC Soessch 1–0 New Island
New Belfast Blues 1–0 La Gorlions
Handon United 0–2 Mucusia
Hollin 0–2 New Belfast Warriors
Lammerton 2–4 Kirk Preston United

Match of the day was an absolute belter at the Lammerton City Ground, with Kirk Preston inflicting a painful defeat on the Hornets. We'd been a little disappointed with the Holy Men so far in the first third of the season, but they more than made up for it today with an impressive win over Johnny Smith's team. Kirk Preston opened the scoring after Oskar Holst was hacked down in the box by country Ezequiel Marchiondo - and in fact, the battle between the two Farf teenagers was a fascinating one throughout the match. Leopoldo Ramirez tucked away the resulting penalty, the first of his two goals. Holst netted from a Matilda Weiss assist, and Afton Prichard saw a distance strike sneak in at the near post for fourth. Despite goals from Mars Alexandersson and Raquel Naeher, Lammerton took a real thumping, and you could have been mistaken for thinking that it was their opponents who'd finished third last season.

Reinhard Shale's jacket must have been on a shoogly peg going into this match. Seventh in the league, seven points off the pace, and struggling in the Champions' Cup - the fact that they lost to Bara Waves in their last match would have been the cherry on the cake. Hillstreet, at home, had straightforward win written all over it, and anything other that might well have meant curtains. Cornellians strode through this one in their carpet slippers though, and for a team under a fair bit of pressure, this perhaps shows their metal. A missile strike from Isla Sibučić opened the scoring for the Eagles, before Emil Eklund connected with a Jade Irwin cross for the second. There was an excellent chance for Kathryn Kvanderwyk to cap a strong individual performance with a goal of her own, before substitute John Fyfe tapped in a pass from Jade Irwin for the side's third.

Kings Park put a massive dent in the Dundee's season with a somewhat unexpected 3-0 win over this season's unlikely title chasers. Whether or not Dundee were starting to see themselves as invincible, this match proved they were not. The Royals' golden-girl right now, Meghan Hartsdown, was instrumental in the victory, with a hand in all three of the home side's goals.

Finally: Port Sebastian cruised up to third, with an easy win over strugglers, Bara Waves. Handon United slumped to a painful defeat at the hands of Mucusia. And Port Patrick look in all sorts of trouble now, as a 2-0 loss at the hands of Athletic seems them left teetering above the relegation zone.

Champions' Cup -- Group Phase
Handon United 1-0 Tihon (CMT)
(FFD) Mâ Âlâmëómë 0-0 Cornellians

United certainly had to work for it, but they got the goal they needed to see of a strong challenge from Tihon at Harbour Hill. It was a good team performance, rounded off by teenager Solomon Johnson, who converted a Regatta Aspenwood cross for his third goal of the season. Cornellians also performed well, but they failed to get the goal they needed to take three points from their clash with Mâ Âlâmëómë. It's a hard place to go and get points, but had Dragora Steelhenge connected better with a Jade Irwin corner five minutes from time, the match might have ended very differently.

Globe Cup -- Group Phase
Port Sebastian 1-2 Cherrygrove City (SOL)

Port Sebastian suffered a major set back, however, with a second defeat at the hands of Cherrygrove City. Despite taking the lead through Heron Kendall, Porty didn't have drive to see this game out.

Series B -- Group Phase
(CEN) Cenial Liberty 0-2 Marionville

And Marionville converted some of their promising league form into UICA success this week. Jack Avelione and Laura Carrow scored the goals, which gave them a strong 2-0 win in Ceni.

SPL
Hillstreet 0–0 Kirk Preston United
New Belfast Warriors 2–5 Lammerton
Mucusia 5–0 Hollin
La Gorlions 0–0 Handon United
New Island 4–0 New Belfast Blues
Marionville 0–0 FC Soessch
Port James Athletic 1–1 Snubbeak Rock
Dundee 3–2 Port Patrick United
Bara Waves 2–4 Kings Park
Cornellians 4–3 Port Sebastian

It what we might call a week of odd results; the pick of the matches was Port Sebastian's visit to Cornellians. Porty usually have a habit of performing strongly against the teams around them at the top of the table, and this was no different as Nicolas Lars' side put up a strong fight against the resurgent Eagles. The visitors really needed to get a handle on Cornellians in the midfield, and somehow restrict their more creative players. This was something they inevitably struggled to do, and it was probably the difference on the day. Porty attacked well, but the pace and precision with which the Eagles could counter, caught them out once to often. With the match evenly poised as we approached ninety minutes, up popped Kathryn Kvanderwyk to convert a Johannas Ünterhausen through-ball, giving the home side a 4-3 win.

There was another strong performance from Kings Park as the team continue to build some momentum with a 4-2 win over Bara Waves. The home side battled bravely, twice pulling level in the first half. It was testament to the mental strength of the Royals, however, that they kept the pressure up, and eventually ran out comfortable winners. Sendoa was a strong performer in centre of midfield, as was veteran Lilith Paterson, who let nothing past her all afternoon. Dejan Corvell will probably be the one who is remembered from this one though, as his two second half goals were inevitably the difference between the sides.

In much sadder news Port Patrick United waved good-bye to manager Des Pleent following their 3-2 defeat at the hands of Dundee. Pleent was the man who transformed the Breakers from a first Division side to a team capable of challenging for the Globe Cup spots, but his time has come to an end. The result keeps the highly impressive Dundee in the race of the Champions' Cup spots, while Port Patrick are now left looking over their shoulder at the relegation battle. The club have said they will make an announcement on Pleent's replacement soon, but for now we have been left speculating, with Conner Watts, Graeme Collins, and John McCann all immerging as early favourites for the post.

Elsewhere: United saw their lead chiselled away, as they were unable to find the back of the net against La Gorlions. Lammerton recovered from their poor result last week, with an emphatic win over the Warriors. And with a 4-0 win over New Belfast Blues, New Island can perhaps put imminent relegation fears to rest.

Champions' Cup -- Group Phase
(NPH) Crisisbless 2-5 Handon United
(COS) Real Azuris 1-1 Cornellians

Handon United look to be cruising through to the knockouts for a second year running at this stage; with a 5-2 win over Crisisbless in Nephara probably close to their best result of the modern era. A double from Dilon Bánach capped a great performance from the youngster in the centre of midfield. Cornellians put in an impressive performance as they paid a visit to Klyde to take on one of the world's top sides. A draw at Real Azuris is hardly a bad result, but the Eagles needed much more if they were going to make the knockouts.

Globe Cup -- Group Phase
(COS) Cassandra City 0-0 Port Sebastian

Port Sebastian also ground out a good result in Cosumar, and holding Cassandra City to a goalless draw will go down as proof of their resilience. The result leaves the Handon side in a strong position to qualify.

Series B -- Group Phase
(AUD) Shamrock Cathair 0-2 Marionville

Marionville look to be finishing the campaign in a high at least, and a 2-0 win over Audioslavians, Shamrock Cathair, will go down as a very good result for the Schottians. Goals from Jessica Grey and Andy Bell gave them the full three points.

SPL
Port Sebastian 3–0 Hillstreet
Kings Park 2–1 Cornellians
Port Patrick United 2–0 Bara Waves
Snubbeak Rock 0–1 Dundee
FC Soessch 2–0 Port James Athletic
New Belfast Blues 3–3 Marionville
Handon United 2–0 New Island
Hollin 0–0 La Gorlions
Lammerton 0–0 Mucusia
Kirk Preston United 2–2 New Belfast Warriors

Port Sebastian bounced back quickly from their defeat at the hands of Cornellians, with a 3-0 win over strugglers, Hillstreet. After a very unsettled start to the season, Porty are now looking much stronger: their new players have seemingly gelled, and the club appear to be shaping up as real title contenders. Hillstreet didn't have much of an answer to the threat Port Sebastian posed in the wide areas with Carroll and Alan, as well as right-back, Esther Abner giving the Huntley club a torrid time. Eloisa Purinton was at her dazzling best as she danced through the defence before finishing past Lisa Farney, and Heron Kendall showed great strength in holding off Zack Cobb as she slotted home the second. MG Grumbla produced a fantastic stop to deny loanee, Lenya Auzens, a goal against her parent club, before David Monks completed the rout for Porty with a belting strike from the edge of the dee.

Marionville's visit to New Belfast Blues presented us with a real match of the day contender, as these two highflying sides locked horn in a six goal thriller. Marionville took the lead early on, as Jack Avelione skipped two meaty challenges before hitting the ball low and hard past John Fallen. The Blues responded however, and Charlotte Ünterhausen showed all the cleverness we have come to expect from her, out muscling Laura Carrow before playing in Lasse Schnarnberg for the equaliser. Further goals from Jess Grey, Alasdair Nesbo, and Tom Sanchez, meant the game was evenly poised as we approached the closing stages. Circe Rosenthal was the hero of the hour for Marionville though, running onto a Dawn Morham through-ball to win the Boys a share of the points.

Managerless Port Patrick United gave themselves a little breathing space, finally, as a 2-0 win over Bara allowed them to pull clear of the drop zone. Nothing has been coming off for the breakers this season, and injuries and drops in form have seen them left languishing towards the bottom of the table. This wasn't a highly polished performance, but a double from Whitney Kelly was enough to sweep the SPL minnows aside with relative ease.

In other matches: Soessch produced a fine performance to beat Port James Athletic 2-0 at Gannon Park. Lammerton were held to a 0-0 draw by backs to the wall Mucusia. And a late Ashbrown goal gave Kings Park an unexpected win over Cornellians, as they continue to climb the table.

Champions' Cup -- Group Phase
Handon United 3-1 Lexington Victory (NGD)
(CEN) Phalanx AF 2-1 Cornellians

Handon United wrapped up a relatively straightforward group run, with a 3-1 win over Globe Cup Champions, Lexington Victory, at Harbour Hill stadium. The side from New Gelderland are no pushovers, but United, it would seem, are slowly getting the hang of this Champions' Cup business. Goals from Regatta Aspenwood either side of half time gave the Schottians the lead, before a strike from Natalie Adams put the match beyond the visitors. Cornellians, on the other hand, seem to be teetering on the brink at the moment. Their defeat to Phalanx in Ceni meant that the club miss out on the consolation prize of the Globe Cup.

Globe Cup -- Group Phase
Port Sebastian 2-0 FC Capri

Port Sebastian joined their neighbours, United, in securing UICA football after Mid-Winter. Goals from Heron Kendall and Richard Geddes gave them a 2-0 win over FC Capri, taking them through to the knockouts of the Globe Cup.

Series B -- Group Phase
Marionville 1-2 Astrolabe (NGD)

And Marionville can now get back to concentrating on the day job, as their attempt to hold onto the Series B trophy for Schottia went out with a bit of a whimper.

SPL
Hillstreet 0–1 New Belfast Warriors
Mucusia 1–3 Kirk Preston United
La Gorlions 0–1 Lammerton
New Island 1–0 Hollin
Marionville 3–2 Handon United
Port James Athletic 1–1 New Belfast Blues
Dundee 0–0 FC Soessch
Bara Waves 3–0 Snubbeak Rock
Cornellians 2–1 Port Patrick United
Port Sebastian 5–2 Kings Park

Marionville heralded their emergence in the top flight with a bang, moving up into the Globe Cup places with a win over Handon United. Jack Cordoba has worked wonders at the club since taking over, and as they faced the Champions' Cup finalists this week, they really didn't look out of place. Marionville's young midfield matched their opposite numbers all the way with Carrow and Rosenthal holding their own against United's top international stars. The home side held up well to the attacking threat of Lovenkrads and Aspenwood, and caused the opposition a fair few problems themselves, with Jack Avelione particularly slippery in attack. The defeat means that United now have to share top spot with their rivals Port Sebastian, having disappointingly let a handsome lead slip though their fingers.

You could have been forgiven for thinking that Porty would face an uphill struggle as they played host to the very dangerous Kings Park. Everything seems to be falling into place for Nicolas Lars' side at the minute though, and despite going behind early on, they rallied to produce a roaring performance in front of their home fans. Alexander Alan seems to now be producing the kind of form he did with Kirk Preston last season, and the Schottia international's double in this match was very much deserved. The 26-year-old also delivered the cross for Heron Kendall to volley home, as the Nepharim continued her impressive scoring run. Goals for Roisin Carroll and Eloisa Purinton helped round off a resounding win for the Globe Cup hopefuls.

Cornellians seem to be taking one step forward, one step back, but in such a tight league table, they haven't been punished much. Their opponents Port Patrick announced that Hillstreet boss, Conner Watts will take over as manager next week, but the club were unable to give him three points to come home to. The Breakers fought tooth and nail, and did pull level at one point, as Tanya Yeats played Chase Ziegenhorn through on goal. Cornellians always looked like taking home the three points though, and as Jade Irwin brilliantly picked out Kathryn Kvanderwyk on the edge of the box, the Cosumarite had plenty of time to convert past Altavian Kalhoro.

In other results: Kirk Preston came from behind to thump Mucusia 3-1, as they continue to get over their rotten start. Port James seem to be struggling for wins all of a sudden, as their 1-1 draw at home to the Blues illustrates perfectly. And Bara Waves picked up a pivotal win in the battle to avoid the drop, beating Snubbeak 3-0.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Four

Player: Alexander Alan -- Port Sebastian
A terrific month for Port Sebastian, and a player who is making a lot of the headlines right now. Alexander Alan, despite his humble beginnings, has been taking the league by storm as he looks to establish himself a the natural successor to Eoin Killanen in the Schottia set up.

Young Player: Isla Sibučić -- Cornellians
Cornellians are another side who have had a good month, right when their manager needed it most. Ünterhausen, Irwin, Eklund, all the likely suspects have rolled their socks up, but Sibučić in particular has been the driving force behind their attacking thrust.

Manager: Ross Killanen -- Kirk Preston United
Driven forward in particular by attackers, Weiss, Holst, and Ramirez, Kirk Preston are slowly clawing their way back up the table. Killanen's style of fast, direct counter punch has caused a few sides some real problems this month.

SPL
Kings Park 3–0 Hillstreet
Port Patrick United 1–1 Port Sebastian
Snubbeak Rock 3–3 Cornellians
FC Soessch 2–0 Bara Waves
New Belfast Blues 2–1 Dundee
Handon United 2–0 Port James Athletic
Hollin 0–4 Marionville
Lammerton 3–2 New Island
Kirk Preston United 2–1 La Gorlions
New Belfast Warriors 1–1 Mucusia

A double from Jessica Grey helped Marionville to a 4-0 win over Hollin this weekend, as the newly promoted team look increasingly like the league's form side. The Boys are balanced, straight-shooting, and Jack Cordoba certainly knows how to get the most out of his players. Hollin on the other hand, look all out of ideas. Rooted to the bottom of the table, it's getting harder and harder to see where the great escape is going to come from this year. Marionville really tore the Belker side a new one in this match, and with the pace of Grey and Avelione up front, combined with Rosenthal's ability to pick a pass, the match was horribly one-sided at points.

Hillstreet are another team who seem to be finding themselves in a spot of bother. Currently manageress, the Hunters were absolute run over by a rampant Kings Park. The Royals got off to a very slow start, but they are finding form at exactly the right time as they look to push for a top six spot. Based on this showing, Raven Cullen's side will be right in the mix once again, and you would say they are only one or two players short of being real top-three contenders. Hillstreet need to start picking up points, but with the loss of Conner Watts, the person coming in to replace him is going to have to come up with something special.

For Watts however, his first game with new charges, Port Patrick, could not have been more charged as they took on another of his former clubs, Port Sebastian. Watts is still the only manager to have led Porty to the league title in the UICA era, but any affection the supporters had for him, would have been left firmly at door this weekend. Porty were trying hard to insert themselves into the title race, whereas the Breakers were just trying to keep their heads above water. It really wasn't the best of matches, if truth were told, and on the Demba Traore's 72nd minute strike cancelled out Eloisa Puninton's opener for a share of the points.

In other results: A screamer from Mars Alexandersson gave Lammerton a 3-2 win over a determined New Island. Handon United stay top with an impressive 2-0 win over Port James Athletic. And Snubbeak Rock pulled off a massive upset, holding Cornellians to a 3-3 draw.

SPL
Hillstreet 1–3 Mucusia
La Gorlions 2–0 New Belfast Warriors
New Island 0–0 Kirk Preston United
Marionville 2–3 Lammerton
Port James Athletic 2–1 Hollin
Dundee 1–1 Handon United
Bara Waves 0–2 New Belfast Blues
Cornellians 1–0 FC Soessch
Port Sebastian 1–0 Snubbeak Rock
Kings Park 1–3 Port Patrick United

As we approach the halfway point, the SPL table couldn't really be any tighter, with one goal separating Handon's big two at the top of the table, and only four point dividing the top eight. Marionville missed the chance to go top, as they failed to find the win they needed at home to Lammerton. Jack Cordoba's side have been on hot form this month, but the Hornets showed why they can never be counted out. The visitors were impressive from the off, with Kaytlyne Victoriane giving them the lead as she converted a low cross from Ezequiel Marchiondo. Marionville did their best to get back into the match, as we have seen them do on many occasions this season already, but the attacking threat we know Lammerton pose, proved to be too strong.

Cornellians also moved up to third, two points behind the Handon duo, with a 1-0 win over Soessch. The stakes were high for both sides, with so few points separating the teams at the top. Neither seemed keen to over commit in what was generally a cagey match, however, the Eagles superior attack power took its toll on the North Islanders. Mershawn Mercury used all his pace and power as he strode forward, bursting his way into the box, before setting up Emil Eklund for the only goal of the game.

Handon United's draw with Dundee allowed some of the chasing pack to close right up in the battle for the SPL title. Dundee set off at an alarming pace this season, but they have dropped off a little in terms of consistency. That said, they were more than a match for the double league winners this week, in a game that could have went either way. Wallace Solway brilliantly converted a nod-down from Sett Horn to give the Panners the lead. However, Regatta Aspenwood added to her highly impressive tally with four minutes left on the clock to rescue a point for United.

Elsewhere: Athletic got the win they needed to keep them in the UICA hunt, as goals from Hobbs and Hyrman saw them past Hollin. It took an 80 minute header from Heron Kendall to get Porty over the line against a backs to the wall Snubbeak. And Foucault and Hétu heaped more misery on Hillstreet, as Mucusia rounded off a 3-1 win.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Handon United          18   10   4   4    35   22  +13    34
 2 Port Sebastian         18   10   4   4    29   17  +12    34
 3 Cornellians            18    9   5   4    40   29  +11    32
 4 Lammerton              18    9   5   4    31   25   +6    32
 5 Dundee                 18    9   4   5    26   16  +10    31
 6 Marionville            18    9   4   5    31   22   +9    31
 7 New Belfast Blues      18    9   4   5    31   30   +1    31
 8 Port James Athletic    18    9   3   6    35   24  +11    30
 9 Kings Park             18    8   3   7    36   30   +6    27
10 FC Soessch             18    7   6   5    23   19   +4    27
11 New Belfast Warriors   18    8   3   7    27   28   −1    27
12 Mucusia                18    7   5   6    30   26   +4    26
13 Kirk Preston United    18    6   6   6    22   21   +1    24
14 La Gorlions            18    7   3   8    20   20    0    24
15 New Island             18    6   3   9    27   31   −4    21
16 Port Patrick United    18    6   3   9    20   24   −4    21
17 Snubbeak Rock          18    3   5  10    15   31  −16    14
18 Bara Waves             18    4   2  12    12   33  −21    14
19 Hillstreet             18    2   4  12    17   35  −18    10
20 Hollin                 18    1   6  11     8   32  −24     9

First Division

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Granton Vale           18   12   3   3    37   15  +22    39
 2 West Holbrookdale      18   12   2   4    35   19  +16    38
 3 West Coast Warriors    18   10   6   2    44   22  +22    36
 4 Lammerton City         18   10   4   4    29   14  +15    34
 5 Jena VB                18   10   3   5    34   25   +9    33
 6 Berwick United         18    9   3   6    27   27    0    30
   FC Döllar              18    9   3   6    27   27    0    30
 8 Handon North           18    7   6   5    30   25   +5    27
 9 Stalker Bay            18    8   3   7    30   28   +2    27
10 Lochend Town           18    8   3   7    32   31   +1    27
11 Lammerton Eels         18    7   6   5    34   35   −1    27
12 Central Stars          18    7   3   8    27   26   +1    24
13 D'Itille               18    6   4   8    26   26    0    22
14 Lammerton Wonderers    18    7   1  10    30   34   −4    22
15 Soessch 1990           18    5   5   8    27   32   −5    20
16 Marionville Thistle    18    5   5   8    26   37  −11    20
17 Oak Park Celtic        18    4   4  10    18   30  −12    16
18 University of Handon   18    3   4  11    20   36  −16    13
19 Toll Cross Academy     18    3   1  14    25   44  −19    10
20 Wolbeck                18    3   1  14    25   50  −25    10

Schottic Cup -- Round of Sixteen
Central Stars 1–4 Mucusia
Lammerton 4–3 West Holbrookdale
Berwick United 1–1 Granton Vale (2–2 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Regional Development Side B 0–1 La Gorlions
West Coast Warriors 0–0 Lochend Town (1–1 AET) (2–3 pen.)
New Belfast Blues 0–0 Port Sebastian (2–2 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Kings Park 1–0 New Island
Handon United 2–2 Marionville (2–2 AET) (1–3 pen.)

by **Schottia** » Mon Jan 22, 2018 6:58 am

Matchday Nineteen - Twenty-Four & UICA Knockouts

SPL
Port Patrick United 3–0 Hillstreet
Snubbeak Rock 0–1 Kings Park
FC Soessch 0–1 Port Sebastian
New Belfast Blues 0–3 Cornellians
Handon United 1–0 Bara Waves
Hollin 0–1 Dundee
Lammerton 1–0 Port James Athletic
Kirk Preston United 1–1 Marionville
New Belfast Warriors 4–1 New Island
Mucusia 2–1 La Gorlions

Matchday nineteen, and we are still no closer to having any idea who our next SPL champions might be. All of the top five recorded wins this week, in their bid to build some momentum going onto the second half of the season, but Cornellians' triumph away to New Belfast Blues was by far the most impressive. Speaking of momentum, the Blues seem to have lost much of theirs, and were helpless to prevent the Eagles notching up another win. Echani winger, Mershawn Mercury has been on a rich run of form, and he was at his explosive best, squaring the ball for Kathryn Kvanderwyk's opener. Jade Irwin doubled the scores on the stroke of half time, skinning Johnny Birch, then playing a clever one-two win Emil Eklund before converting into the bottom corner. Isla Sibučić fired just wide, and John Fyfe missed an excellent chance as Conrellians pushed forward in the second half. The win was complete with ten minutes to play, as Triffid Ramsey picked out Kit Kvanderwyk lurking at the edge of the box for his side's third.

Port Patrick United seem to have picked up a little following Conner Watts' appointment. This weekend's 3-0 win over his former club, Hillstreet, would have been a cruel blow for a club who are in all sorts of trouble this season. With Connie Malone re-established in the starting line up, the Breakers have a bit more bite in the centre, and they were just too strong for the Hunters. Whitney Kelly crossed for Demba Troare to open the scoring, before Tanya Yeats did what she does best, scoring the second from way out. Chase Ziegenhorn wrapped up what was probably the side's most convincing win of the season, with a strike from the edge of the area.

The Warriors are another club going through a bit of a transition right now, and their 4-1 win over New Island would have been encouraging signs of new growth. Whatever happens this season, the emergence of Jack Jevđenijević will go down as a big positive. The 18-year-old continues to look like a star of the future, and his goal today came at a crucial moment for the team.

In other results: A spirited match up between Marionville and Kirk Preston ended in a 0-0 draw. Heron Kendall is developing something of a knack for popping up with timely goals, and once again she earned Porty all three points against a well-organised FC Soessch. And a late goal from Sara Foucault secured Mucusia a win over La Gorlions.

SPL
Hillstreet 0–1 La Gorlions
Mucusia 2–0 New Island
New Belfast Warriors 6–4 Marionville
Kirk Preston United 1–0 Port James Athletic
Lammerton 2–0 Dundee
Hollin 2–0 Bara Waves
Handon United 2–2 Cornellians
New Belfast Blues 1–0 Port Sebastian
FC Soessch 1–0 Kings Park
Snubbeak Rock 2–4 Port Patrick United

In perfect symmetry with the opening game of the season, the clash between Schottia's big two ended in a 2-2 draw. This time it was United's turn to play host, with both sides knowing just how important these three points could be come the end of the season. This was a high quality match, with some stout defending only matched by the power and precision the sides' possessed in the forward areas. United captain, JK Cottle, opened the scoring, as he connected with Natalie Adams corner, leaving Harry Gould with no chance. Emil Eklund equalised for the Eagles midway through the first half however, as the Buyanese latched onto a lay-off from Kathryn Kvanderwyk. United took the lead once more, shortly after the restart, as Dilon Bánach's hopeful effort rebounded into the path of Daniel Dostalok, but with a second strike from Kvanderwyk, the scores finished all square.

On a week were the top two weren't facing off, a ten goal thriller would be the obvious match of the day. The Warriors are on good form right now, and the six goals they put past Marionville would attest to their capabilities up front. In an unusual match the Whalers seemed to be equally leaky at back however, conceding four to the First Division champs. Jack Jevđenijević bagged another double for the home side, while Jessica Grey did the same for the visitors. In an extraordinary match, where the lead changed hands several times, Joey Bia was the hero of the hour, hammering home the Warriors crucial fifth goal with the score line level.

In terms of sheer importance, Lammerton's win over Dundee likely tops the chart this week, with the result lifting them equal top. The Panners by contrast slipped down the league, as they learn just how tough life can be at the top of the table. Lammerton were fast and decisive in attack, while at the back they dealt well with the physical threat of Sett Horn. The Hornets did the damage in two sweeping second half moves, with Elspeth Glendening and Kaytlyne Victoriane getting the important goals.

Elswhere: Port Sebastian fell foul to a Nikki Temples goals in their bid to go top of the table. Kirk Preston had Oskar Holst to thank for their 1-0 win over Athletic. And Soessch put in a real backs to the wall performance as they took a crucial three points from the visit of Kings Park.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Five

Player: Jasper Valaran -- Lammerton
The Cenian is a player who has been at the heart of team for close to a decade now, and his playmaking ability is a foundation the side is built upon. The Hornets have had a brilliant month, right when they and their manager needed it most, with Valaran a key figure.

Young Player: Jack Jevđenijević -- New Belfast Warriors
It's been a mixed bag for the Warriors this month, but with four goals in four games, their have only been positives to take away for Jevđenijević. The 18-year-old looks to be forming a promising partnership with Drawkish striker, Iana Synder, which will likely be a big feature for the New Belfast club this season.

Manager: Lily Kitman -- Mucusia
Pound for pound, Mucusia have had a fantastic month. Given that their number one target was probably forty points, the ten they have picked up in just four matches is highly impressive. Not just content with safety, Mucusia are in danger of having their best season in the SPL.

Champions' Cup -- Last Sixteen
(PAS) CA Paulinthal 2–1 Handon United
We reach the UICA knockouts once more, and United were first up, as they took on the extremely dangerous CA Paulinthal. The Pasargans have been very successful in recent years, and that star quality showed as they inflicted a rare defeat on Jane Gullie's side. With Sloane Kirkland in their ranks this was a bit of a grudge match for United. The man they should have had their eye on, however, was Ragnar Targaryen, as the Cosumarite's second half double was the difference between the two sides.

Globe Cup -- Last Thirty-Two
Port Sebastian 2–1 Ibini FC (VAL)

Port Sebastian faired a little better, as a 2-1 win over Ibini FC at Dyerton gave them a good chance of making the next round. It was a resilient performance, with goals from Alexander Alan and Heron Kendall giving them the three points.

SPL
Snubbeak Rock 2–1 Hillstreet
Port Patrick United 0–0 FC Soessch
Kings Park 4–2 New Belfast Blues
Port Sebastian 3–4 Handon United
Cornellians 1–0 Hollin
Bara Waves 0–3 Lammerton
Dundee 0–1 Kirk Preston United
Port James Athletic 2–2 New Belfast Warriors
Marionville 0–0 Mucusia
New Island 3–0 La Gorlions

Handon United delivered a cruel blow to their city rivals with a late smash and grab job in the Handon Derby. Port Sebastian Went ahead on three occasions in this heated tie, but the visitors pulled themselves back level each time. There were no shortage of full blooded challenges, with Rachel Hellion and Vera Cummings lucky not to be red carded as the two midfielders were involved in a fiery exchange. As Eliosa Purinton put Porty ahead from the penalty spot with ten minutes left on the clock, the home fans must have thought it was going to be a clean sweep in terms of derby wins this year. However, Jane Gullie's side clearly had other ideas in mind, as firstly Daniel Dostalok converted Magdalen Demetrius' cross-field ball, before Dilon Bànach hit home a stoppage time winner.

Lammerton kept the pressure on United with a 3-0 over relegation threatened Bara Waves. Johnny Smith's side took the lead after some trickery from Raquel Naeher saw her get the better of Mike Weber before finding Mars Alexandersson, who converted from close range. Ezequiel Marchiondo then doubled their lead, as the 18-year-old Farf defender capped a mazy run with his first goal for the club. Finally, Elspeth Glendening made it three, as the former Athletic star confidently side-footed past Joanna Kytee from close range.

New Island and La Gorlions aren’t exactly sides you expect to set the turf alight, but they treated us to a good matchup at the Rock Ground. It may be next season before we see the best of New Island, but there are signs that they are improving under Ramonita Kendrick. Ramone Scotta scored two and Enid Gil grabbed the other as they recorded in unexpected 3-0 win.

In other results: Cornellians finally managed to breakdown the Hollin wall, as a 1-0 win was enough to secure victory. Tiferet Ashbrown was the star of the show, as her double helped the Royals to a 4-2 win over the Blues. And a John Wylie header eventually separated Kirk Preston and Dundee in a very even contest.

Champions' Cup -- Last Sixteen
Handon United 3-1 CA Paulinthal (PAS)

Handon United got over their defeat in Pasarga, to progress to the Champions' Cup quarterfinal with a 3-1 win over CAP. Despite conceding an early goal, strikes from Daniel Dostalok and Regatta Aspenwood (2), got them over the line.

Globe Cup -- Last Thirty-Two
(VAL) Ibini FC 2-1 Port Sebastian (5-4 pens)

There was a bitter penalty shootout defeat for Porty to endure, however, as Ibini managed to overturn their first leg defeat. Once again Porty find themselves crashing out of the Globe Cup early on, and will need to go back to the drawing board.

SPL
Hillstreet 0–1 New Island
La Gorlions 1–0 Marionville
Mucusia 1–1 Port James Athletic
New Belfast Warriors 2–1 Dundee
Kirk Preston United 1–0 Bara Waves
Lammerton 0–2 Cornellians
Hollin 0–2 Port Sebastian
Handon United 4–0 Kings Park
New Belfast Blues 2–1 Port Patrick United
FC Soessch 1–0 Snubbeak Rock

Lammerton passed up a real chance to prove their championship metal this week, as they lost 2-0 to Cornellians at the City Ground. Lammerton had been on very good form coming into this match, and there can't have really been a better time for them to strike a blow to the six-times champions. The Hornets started full of confidence, but that quickly faded in the face of a strong attacking display from Cornellians. Isla Sibučić made life very difficult for the home side in the first half, drifting into the wide areas and refusing to stick to script. The Cosumarite set up the first for countrywoman, Kathryn Kvankerwyk, with neat pass from the edge of the area. Lammerton passed up a great chance to pull level, as a Kaytlyne Victoriane header shaved the crossbar, but Cornellians put the result beyond doubt moments later, as Jade Irwin's effort took a wicked defection, utterly bamboozling Ed Lorray in the Lammerton goal.

Handon United kept their noses in front, by crushing Kings Park 4-0 at Harbour Hill Stadium. Any notions we might have had that the gulf between the teams at the top of the league was shrinking were proven to be utterly wrong, as Jane Gullie's side ran riot on the second half. Regatta Aspenwood and Christian Lovenkrands were a constant menace throughout, perhaps exposing the wide defensive areas as a major weakness for the Royals. While we have seen Kings Park looking pretty effective going forward at points this season, the United defence did brilliantly to nullify the threat, with Brix Hamilton and Luis Hordern, giving not an inch. The season is not over by any stretch, but it would appear that the south Handon side are emerging as favourites right now.

In a week that failed to produce many remarkable results, La Gorlions narrow win over Marionville was perhaps the next most significant. The Lions were in no danger of going down, but had been struggling for results, and this will have been a big morale boost to the. The Lions deserved their win, and it's possible that Jack Avelione (normally a talisman of Marionville) was unnerved facing his former club. Cephus Hunt dealt the knockout blow, as the Boney headed home a pinpoint cross from Andrya Novkovi.

Elsewhere: Port Sebastian got themselves back on track with a win over Hollin. New Island made it two wins on the bounce, thanks to Erik Cunningham's stoppage time goal, which gave them a 1-0 win away to Hillstreet. And the Warriors continue to make steady progress with a 2-1 win over Dundee.

SPL
FC Soessch 4–0 Hillstreet
Snubbeak Rock 0–0 New Belfast Blues
Port Patrick United 1–2 Handon United
Kings Park 2–1 Hollin
Port Sebastian 0–1 Lammerton
Cornellians 3–3 Kirk Preston United
Bara Waves 0–0 New Belfast Warriors
Dundee 0–1 Mucusia
Port James Athletic 1–3 La Gorlions
Marionville 2–1 New Island

The results seemed to fall Handon United's way this week, allowing them to open up a four point gap at the top. Kirk Preston United did the reigning champs their first favour, holding Cornellians to a 3-3 draw in Lochend. The Eagles were on a bit of a roll going into this one, but the Holy Men, under Ross Killanen, just don't know when they're beat. The stadium was plunged into silence twenty minutes in, as Matilda Weiss capitalised on a loose Triffid Ramsey back-pass to get in behind the defence and open the scoring. The four hundred or so travelling support had more to sing about, and despite Cornellians fighting back to take the lead three times, Kirk Preston managed to hold out for a point. John Fyfe's 82-minute goal should have been enough for the home side, but Oskar Holst burst free in the closing stages to fire past Harry Gould with a powerful strike.

FC Soessch closed in on the UICA spots with an emphatic 4-0 win over Hillstreet, rooting the Huntley side to the bottom of the table. The Hunters are still without a manager, and it's likely that the job of whoever comes in will be in preparing for life in the First Division. This match was barely even a competition, with the North Islanders vastly superior to their opponents. Sasca and Dornenberger were the standout performers, and both got themselves on the score sheet, as the midfield proved to be a key area for the home side. Hillstreet need to get someone in place quickly, and start to put together some results.

Marionville are a side who seem to have slipped off the boil of late. The Boys had a chance to get some much needed points on the board, but they had to get past on form side, New Island, if they were going to do it. After an off-colour performance against former club, La Gorlions, Jack Avelione was more like his old self, scoring one and setting up another for Vojnomir Nikolic.

In other matches: Mucusia kept up their stunning form, as an Aimée Hétu goal gave them a win over Dundee. Lammerton leapfrogged Porty into third, with a 1-0 at Dyerton. And Handon United extended their lead with a 2-1 win at Port Patrick United.

Champions' Cup -- Quarterfinal
(FFD) Mâ Âlâmëómë 2–0 Handon United

Handon United now face an uphill struggle to make the semi-finals, after a 2-0 defeat in Farfadillis left them needing a big result in Schottia. This wasn't the side's best performance, and Mâ Âlâmëómë looked very impressive as they took full advantage.

SPL
Hillstreet 1–3 Marionville
New Island 2–0 Port James Athletic
La Gorlions 0–0 Dundee
Mucusia 2–1 Bara Waves
New Belfast Warriors 3–4 Cornellians
Kirk Preston United 0–1 Port Sebastian
Lammerton 2–3 Kings Park
Hollin 0–2 Port Patrick United
Handon United 3–2 Snubbeak Rock
New Belfast Blues 0–1 FC Soessch

Cornellians have jumped back up to second in the table, as we entered the business end of the season, four points behind the league leaders. Reinhard Shale will be coming under increasing pressure to deliver the league title this season, after narrowly missing out the two years previous. They faced a trip to the Warriors this weekend, to take on a side who have been scoring goals for fun. Five goals in a whirlwind first half saw the Eagles head up the tunnel with a 3-2 lead. The second half was an altogether nervier affair however, and after Lavender Jameson pulled the home side level, it looked as if thinks were headed for a draw. Cornellians made a couple of key changes though; and perhaps their ability to do so was the difference between the sides. Emil Eklund, coming on for Mershawn Mercury, rose highest to nod in a Kit Kvanderwyk cross for the winning goal.

Kings Park climbed back up to 8th, just a point off the Globe Cup places. Beating Lammerton at the City Ground is no easy task, especially when the Hornets are going all out to hold on to United's coat tails. This one came down to a battle between the two attacks, and with both teams packing a real punch in the forward areas. First half goals from Kaytlyne Victoriane, and Dejan Corvell, meant the scored were all square at half time. However, the Royals came out better off in a late goal flourish, with a Billy McCorralie double overturning a Raquel Naeher strike.

Port Sebastian stayed fourth, but well within touching distance of the Champions' Cup places, with a 1-0 win at Kirk Preston. The Holy Men are a real force these days, so what would have been a straightforward match three years ago, was a real slog for the 2020 champions. Afton Prichard probably had the best chance of the game for the home side, as his 57th minute effort fizzed just wide of MG Grumbla's far post. Former Quebecois international, Joon Ho Hwang, got his head on the end of a Paul Doig throw for the only goal of the game.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Six

Player: Dilon Bánach -- Handon United
Bánach is shaping up to be a real star for club and country, and last season's young player of the year had another exceptional month for United. Two goals and three assists on top of some exceptional performances mean she is a worthy recipient of this award.

Young Player: Jack Avelione -- Marionville
It's a surname we are well used to seeing on the back of a Schottia shirt, and the teenager might not be far from following his father and uncle into the set up. At seventeen he wouldn't actually be the youngest player to have been capped for Schottia, with Connie Martel-Burns and Joey Bia currently beating him to that that honour. All the same, the signs look bright for the Bastion Loanee.

Manager: Jane Gullie -- Handon United
Four wins and thirteen goals; it's been a great month for Gullie and United. The outcome of this season might come down to consistency, and based on what we've seen so far, that could tip the balance in favour of this Handon side.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Handon United          24   15   5   4    51   30  +21    50
 2 Cornellians            24   13   7   4    55   37  +18    46
 3 Lammerton              24   13   5   6    40   30  +10    44
 4 Port Sebastian         24   13   4   7    36   23  +13    43
 5 FC Soessch             24   11   7   6    30   20  +10    40
 6 Mucusia                24   11   7   6    38   29   +9    40
 7 Marionville            24   11   6   7    41   32   +9    39
 8 Kings Park             24   12   3   9    46   40   +6    39
 9 New Belfast Warriors   24   11   5   8    44   40   +4    38
10 New Belfast Blues      24   11   5   8    36   39   −3    38
11 Dundee                 24   10   5   9    28   22   +6    35
12 Kirk Preston United    24    9   8   7    29   26   +3    35
13 La Gorlions            24   10   4  10    26   26    0    34
14 Port James Athletic    24    9   5  10    39   34   +5    32
15 Port Patrick United    24    9   4  11    31   30   +1    31
16 New Island             24    9   3  12    35   39   −4    30
17 Snubbeak Rock          24    4   6  14    21   41  −20    18
18 Bara Waves             24    4   3  17    13   42  −29    15
19 Hollin                 24    2   6  16    11   40  −29    12
20 Hillstreet             24    2   4  18    19   49  −30    10

First Division

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 West Holbrookdale      24   16   3   5    43   25  +18    51
 2 West Coast Warriors    24   14   8   2    60   32  +28    50
 3 Granton Vale           24   14   5   5    43   21  +22    47
 4 Lammerton City         24   13   7   4    38   18  +20    46
 5 Jena VB                24   12   5   7    38   30   +8    41
 6 Lochend Town           24   12   4   8    44   41   +3    40
 7 Berwick United         24   11   6   7    38   34   +4    39
 8 Lammerton Eels         24   10   6   8    46   44   +2    36
 9 D'Itille               24   10   5   9    36   30   +6    35
10 FC Döllar              24   10   4  10    33   38   −5    34
11 Handon North           24    8   8   8    35   31   +4    32
12 Stalker Bay            24    9   5  10    33   35   −2    32
13 Central Stars          24    8   6  10    30   30    0    30
14 Soessch 1990           24    7   8   9    34   37   −3    29
15 Oak Park Celtic        24    6   7  11    25   35  −10    25
16 University of Handon   24    6   7  11    30   42  −12    25
17 Lammerton Wonderers    24    7   3  14    35   44   −9    24
18 Marionville Thistle    24    5   6  13    32   51  −19    21
19 Toll Cross Academy     24    5   3  16    37   58  −21    18
20 Wolbeck                24    3   2  19    30   64  −34    11

by **Schottia** » Tue Jan 23, 2018 3:42 am

Matchday Twenty-Five - Thirty & UICA Knockouts

Champions' Cup -- Quarterfinal
Handon United 1-1 Mâ Âlâmëómë (FFD)

Handon United were left staring at Champions' Cup exit, as a brave campaign came to an end against Farf heavyweights, Mâ Âlâmëómë. United took the lead early on through Aspenwood, but with the Farves equaliser, it was too far back for the Schottic champions.

SPL
New Belfast Blues 7–0 Hillstreet
FC Soessch 1–0 Handon United
Snubbeak Rock 1–0 Hollin
Port Patrick United 5–3 Lammerton
Kings Park 1–0 Kirk Preston United
Port Sebastian 2–2 New Belfast Warriors
Cornellians 2–2 Mucusia
Bara Waves 0–2 La Gorlions
Dundee 2–0 New Island
Port James Athletic 2–0 Marionville

It's not very often you get a 7-0 in the SPL, and even less often is it dealt out by a side like NBB. However, poor, poor Hillstreet took a real thumping as they visited Straks Park. With the club now looking well and truly buried, the Blues set about demolishing their fellow South Schottians, with a deadly second half barrage. Lasse Schnarnberg scored four, putting the icing on what had been a very strong attacking display. Chris Okywä's side definitely seem to be moving in the right direction at the minute, while managerless Hillstreet are in serious trouble.

That result could not have been in starker contrast to former boss, Conner Watts' fortunes, as he lead new club, Port Patrick to a 5-3 win over Lammerton. To put five past the team that finished third last season is an amazing turn around for the Breakers, who were in relegation trouble not too long ago. Semar, Demba Traore, scored two goals in a very strong individual performance. Chase Ziegenhorn, Whitney Kelly, Tanya Yeats were also on target for the north Handon club. Lammerton played well at points, however the Traore double came at a key moment and utterly changed the game.

Handon United suffered a surprise 1-0 defeat at the hands of Sossech this week, to put a massive dent in their title bid. United have been on impressive form, but the North Islanders have one of the best defences in the league, and they struggled to make any headway against November and Ross. Jim Black pulled off a top save to deny Christian Lovenkrands, but that was as close as it got for the Champs. Soeesch bode their time, and struck the decisive blow, as Johan Shearer tucked away the only goal of the game.

In other results: Sett Horn and Wallace Solway gave Dundee a win at home to New Island. Port James Athletic reversed their downward spiral with a 2-0 over Marionville. And a late goal from Tomás Fierro rescued a point for the Warriors away to Port Sebastian.

SPL
Hillstreet 1–2 Port James Athletic
Marionville 3–0 Dundee
New Island 1–0 Bara Waves
La Gorlions 0–1 Cornellians
Mucusia 1–0 Port Sebastian
New Belfast Warriors 2–1 Kings Park
Kirk Preston United 1–1 Port Patrick United
Lammerton 4–0 Snubbeak Rock
Hollin 0–0 FC Soessch
Handon United 1–1 New Belfast Blues

Lammerton made amends for their embarrassing 5-3 defeat last week, with a workmanlike victory over Snubbeak. The Hornets attacked in swarms, as they stuck to their task, and piled more pressure on the relegation threatened side. Mars Alexandersson opened the floodgates, as she curled her freekick round the bottom of the wall, totally outfoxing the Max Johnstone at his far post. Kaytlyne Victoriane was also impressive in this match, as she linked up well with Ezequiel Marchiondo down the right. The Chromatik, Victoriane, got on the score sheet in the process, as well as delivering the cross for Elspeth Gendining's third. Raquel Naeher competed the impressive win, sprinting in behind the defence to direct a Jasper Valaran pass beyond the helpless Johnstone.

Danu Parc is renowned as one of the toughest places to go and get points in the SPL, and Cornellians found out exactly why, as they headed up the snowy North Mountains to take on La Gorlions. Jago Avelione's side defended like a pack of dogs, giving Kathryn Kvanderwyk and Emil Eklund very little to go on, while Isla Sibučić was lucky to escape without injury. The Eagle's must have sensed a chance to close the gap at the top of the table though, and teenager Sumireko Karuizawa gave them all three points, converting a Tsumugi Narita pass for the only goal of the game.

Hillstreet unveiled former Pirates and Polaris skipper, Tim Maitfield, as manager this week, with rumours that maverick Dale boss, Grant Nean, had turn the job down. The Christopheran will have been immediately alerted to the task facing him, as the club struggled to make any real inroads at home, going down 2-1 to Port James Athletic.

Elsewhere: The pressure seems to be getting to Handon United, and they conceded a late goal against New Belfast Blues, to allow Cornellians to catch up on them in the title race. Things were even worse for their city rivals, as an Hétu goal gave Mucusia victory over Port Sebastain. And a Jessica Grey double helped Marionville to a 3-0 win at home to Dundee.

SPL
Handon United 3–1 Hillstreet
New Belfast Blues 2–0 Hollin
FC Soessch 2–0 Lammerton
Snubbeak Rock 1–5 Kirk Preston United
Port Patrick United 4–2 New Belfast Warriors
Kings Park 1–0 Mucusia
Port Sebastian 4–1 La Gorlions
Cornellians 3–1 New Island
Bara Waves 0–2 Marionville
Dundee 3–0 Port James Athletic

Kirk Preston United produced an impressive display as they smashed five past Snubbeak Rock on the New Island. Afton Prichard and Matilda Weiss were utterly rampant on the wings, as the Rock found themselves tied in knots far too often in the wide areas. Leopoldo Ramirez was the star of the show however, as the Gauyabalese striker put away a hattrick of well taken goals to add to his very impressive tally for the season. His strike partner, Oskar Holst, also got himself on the score sheet, out turning the Rock defence to convert his ninth goal of the season.

Port Sebastian arguably had an even better result as they put four past a Lions defence, which stood up very well to Cornellians a week previous. Porty are a very difference side from the Eagles though, and while they don't have the edge on quality, they have a cutting-edge directness, which can cause its own problems. Colin Loweson had his best performance in a Port jersey this week, as the youngster continues to develop following his move from Hollin. As well as getting the better of the midfield battle, the 21-year-old also had a direct hand in Heron Kendall's second half strike.

New Belfast Blues are on great form at the moment, having already surpassed last season's point tally. Charlotte Ünterhausen and Tom Sanchez let nothing by them in the centre of the pitch, as Hollin seemed all out of ideas. Sanchez scored the first, and Alasdair Nesbo added the second in a very comfortable win for the Series B Champions' Cup winners.

In other results: Handon United kicked Hillstreet while they were already down, coming back from a goal down to cruise to a 3-1 win at Harbour Hill. It was a similar story at Lochend, where an Emil Eklund hattrick gave Cornellians the win over New Island. And Soeesch kept themselves in the hunt with a 2-0 win over the Hornets.

SPL
Hillstreet 0–1 Dundee
Port James Athletic 1–0 Bara Waves
Marionville 0–1 Cornellians
New Island 3–4 Port Sebastian
La Gorlions 1–0 Kings Park
Mucusia 7–5 Port Patrick United
New Belfast Warriors 4–1 Snubbeak Rock
Kirk Preston United 1–1 FC Soessch
Lammerton 2–2 New Belfast Blues
Hollin 0–0 Handon United

How on earth Mucusia and Port Patrick ended up playing out a twelve-goal match, we will never know. The bout, which saw three red cards, ended up a bit of a farce, with highflying Mucusia edging what was an end to end game. There was a hattrick for Pasargan striker, Aimée Hétu, continuing her country's excellent tradition of producing goal scorers. The lead changed hands several times in this match, as Ziegenhorn and Traore led the line strongly for the visitors. As the second half descended into madness, we saw six goals in a twenty minute spell, with the Eusabians coming out on top. Mucusia continue to have what is by far their best season in the SPL, with the UICA places not out of the question.

Handon United slipped from their perch this weekend, as they failed to find the back of the net against Hollin. Just how the United forward line passed up some of those chances is a mystery, and if they go one to lose out in the title race, we may well end up looking back on this match as pivotal. Teenager, Solomon Johnson passed up the visitors best chances, and after doing so well to get himself into the right position, he will be disappointed to have pulled his shot wide. The frustration was visible on the face of Jane Gullie as the manager made her way from the pitch after 90 minutes.

This could not be more contrasting to Reinhard Shale, who looked as if he'd had the weight of the world lifted from his shoulders. The Nepharim boss finally steered his side to the top of the league, following what was a difficult start to the season. Cornellians made the breakthrough where United could not, patiently grinding Marionville down. Wonderkid, Isla Sibučić, delivered the killer ball from a freekick, picking out Dragora Steelhenge for the winning goal.

Elsewhere: Port Sebastian came from 3-1 down to beat New Island at the Rock Ground. Bara Waves, fighting for their top-fight existence couldn't prevent Port James from winning 1-0. And New Belfast Warriors destroyed Snubbeak Rock 4-1.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Seven

Player: Alistair Nesbo -- New Blefast Blues
There have been some big results for the Blues this month and some very big performances. There were definitely a few honourable mentions from the New Belfast side for this moths award, but the rapid wing-forward, Nesbo, has been particularly outstanding.

Young Player: Anna Meyreani -- Port James Athletic
Anna Meyreani career has been a bit of a fairytale so far, and at seventeen, not many would have expected her to have quite the impact she has in the SPL. Quick, agile, and stands up well in the challenge, Meyreani has a big future in the Schottia set up.

Manager: Reinhard Shale -- Cornellians
It must be hard when your team are expected to win every game. Cornellians have had another good month though, while many of the sides around them have been losing their heads. Schottic football is looking increasingly like a two horse race at the moment, with the likes of Lammerton and Port Sebastian struggling to land a blow on the title challengers.

SPL
Hollin 0–1 Hillstreet
Handon United 1–0 Lammerton
New Belfast Blues 1–2 Kirk Preston United
FC Soessch 1–0 New Belfast Warriors
Snubbeak Rock 2–0 Mucusia
Port Patrick United 0–0 La Gorlions
Kings Park 3–1 New Island
Port Sebastian 2–3 Marionville
Cornellians 4–3 Port James Athletic
Bara Waves 0–1 Dundee

Marionville secured three points in the raced for the Globe Cup places with a win away to Porty. The boys have been more than holding their own this season, and this was the latest in a string of good results. Jack Cordoba's side were unphased in facing the former Champions, and could have even won by a larger margin. Laura Carrow robbed Vera Cummings of possession before playing in Jack Avelione for the first. Jessica Grey added a second from the penalty spot, before Eloisa Purinton pulled one back against the run of play. The goal seemed to get Porty moving, and as Keeve Crowe turned a Roisin Carroll cross in at the back post, it looked as if they might get something from the game. Alexander Pearce Jr headed in a Circe Rosenthal corner however, to give Marionville all three points.

Match of the day had to be a battle between Cornellians and Port James Athletic. After fighting so hard to get themselves on top, it looked for long periods of the match that the Eagles stay might be short. Athletic have been finding wins harder to come by in the second half of the season though, and the end result was typical of their fortunes of late. The Seasiders did so much right; taking the lead early on through Pepe Edgar, and pressing Cornellians hard. It was all to be for nothing however, as two late goals from Kit Kvanderwyk and substitute, Sumireko Karuizawa, kept Shale's side top of the league.

Handon United are of course left snapping at their heels, as they likely will be for the rest of the season, while this two horse race goes down to the wire. Lammerton were tricky opponents for Jane Gullie's side, and it was not a game they could afford to take for granted. The only goal of the game came from the unlikely source of Brix Hamilton, who got her head to a Natalie Adams corner with seven minutes left on the clock.

In other matches: Meghan Hartsdown was person of the match, as Kings Park beat New Island 3-1. A late goal from Oskar Holst gave Kirk Preston the three points as they took on their neighbours, the Warriors. And Hillstreet finally got some points on the board, as a Lenya Auzens goal gave Tim Maitfield a first win as boss.

SPL
Hillstreet 0–0 Bara Waves
Dundee 0–1 Cornellians
Port James Athletic 1–1 Port Sebastian
Marionville 2–2 Kings Park
New Island 3–1 Port Patrick United
La Gorlions 4–1 Snubbeak Rock
Mucusia 2–0 FC Soessch
New Belfast Warriors 4–3 New Belfast Blues
Kirk Preston United 1–2 Handon United
Lammerton 2–0 Hollin

This was probably the week where we can say Port Sebastian dropped out of the title race. Nicolas Lars' players have given it a good crack of the whip, but with only eight matchdays left to play, you'd imagine a ten-point gap is too much to climb. Their match with Athletic this week was good one for the neutrals, and despite only seeing two goals, there were plenty of chances. Alexander Alan opened the scoring for Porty from the edge of the area, following a lay-off from Eloisa Purinton. The lead was short lived however, as Yunji picked out Derick Mason, who headed powerfully into the back of the net for 1-1.

La Gorlions are a side who haven't had the best of seasons so far, but with a 4-1 over a Rocks side hovering above the relegation zone, they can at least start looking towards the top half of the table. Andrya Novkovic set up the first, and scored the second in an impressive performance. There were also goals for Cephus Hunt, Brendan Ranald, and Kirsten Gemmill. Chris McKinsey was once again Snubbeak's best player on the day, but the striker failed to make any headway.

New Island would probably now be considered safe, with a 3-1 win over the resurgent Port Patrick lifting them up to thirty-six points. Ramone Scotta turned in a Holly Addison cross for the first, before Niko Rosmalen added another from the edge of the area. Robbie McSoul scored his first goal for the Breakers with ten minutes left on the clock, however a late strike from Edna Gill helped to secure a valuable three points for her side.

Elsewhere: Cornellians stay top, as a long-range Mercury effort helped them sneak past Dundee. Marionville and Kings Park played out a 2-2 draw in what was an action packed game. And Handon United survived a late scare, as a Matilda Weiss goal was controversially chalked off in the dying minutes.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cornellians            30   18   8   4    67   43  +24    62
 2 Handon United          30   18   7   5    58   34  +24    61
 3 Port Sebastian         30   15   6   9    49   34  +15    51
 4 FC Soessch             30   14   9   7    35   23  +12    51
 5 Lammerton              30   15   6   9    51   40  +11    51
 6 Mucusia                30   14   8   8    50   39  +11    50
 7 Marionville            30   14   7   9    51   39  +12    49
 8 Kings Park             30   15   4  11    54   46   +8    49
 9 New Belfast Warriors   30   14   6  10    58   52   +6    48
10 Dundee                 30   14   5  11    35   26   +9    47
11 New Belfast Blues      30   13   7  10    52   48   +4    46
12 La Gorlions            30   13   5  12    34   32   +2    44
13 Kirk Preston United    30   11  10   9    39   33   +6    43
14 Port James Athletic    30   12   6  12    48   43   +5    42
15 Port Patrick United    30   11   6  13    47   46   +1    39
16 New Island             30   11   3  16    44   52   −8    36
17 Snubbeak Rock          30    6   6  18    27   58  −31    24
18 Bara Waves             30    4   4  22    13   49  −36    16
19 Hollin                 30    2   8  20    11   46  −35    14
20 Hillstreet             30    3   5  22    22   62  −40    14

First Division

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 West Holbrookdale      30   21   3   6    63   35  +28    66
 2 Lammerton City         30   18   8   4    51   21  +30    62
 3 Granton Vale           30   18   7   5    54   26  +28    61
 4 West Coast Warriors    30   17   8   5    68   39  +29    59
 5 Berwick United         30   15   6   9    51   44   +7    51
 6 Jena VB                30   13   7  10    45   39   +6    46
 7 Lochend Town           30   14   4  12    52   49   +3    46
 8 D'Itille               30   13   6  11    48   43   +5    45
 9 Lammerton Eels         30   13   6  11    51   51    0    45
10 FC Döllar              30   13   6  11    45   46   −1    45
11 Stalker Bay            30   13   5  12    42   41   +1    44
12 Central Stars          30   11   8  11    37   38   −1    41
13 Handon North           30   10  10  10    46   41   +5    40
14 Soessch 1990           30    8  11  11    39   45   −6    35
15 Lammerton Wonderers    30   10   4  16    47   52   −5    34
16 Oak Park Celtic        30    9   7  14    36   45   −9    34
17 University of Handon   30    6   7  17    35   60  −25    25
18 Marionville Thistle    30    5   7  18    35   61  −26    22
19 Toll Cross Academy     30    6   3  21    44   72  −28    21
20 Wolbeck                30    3   5  22    35   76  −41    14

Schottic Cup -- Quarterfinal
Lochend Town 1–0 Lammerton
Port Sebastian 3–3 La Gorlions (4–3 AET)
Kings Park 0–2 Marionville
Berwick United 2–0 Mucusia

by **Schottia** » Tue Jan 23, 2018 5:15 am

Matchday Thirty-one - Thirty-seven

SPL
Lammerton 0–0 Hillstreet
Hollin 0–1 Kirk Preston United
Handon United 1–0 New Belfast Warriors
New Belfast Blues 1–1 Mucusia
FC Soessch 2–0 La Gorlions
Snubbeak Rock 5–5 New Island
Port Patrick United 1–2 Marionville
Kings Park 3–2 Port James Athletic
Port Sebastian 3–2 Dundee
Cornellians 1–0 Bara Waves

Marionville jumped up to fifth, as the dream of UICA football in their first season back came a step closer to reality. Their opponents, poor old Port Patrick, probably just wish the season was over now, so as they can start a painful rebuilding job. In an incredible turn around from where the teams were two years ago, it was Marionville who made all of the running, Vojnomir Nikolic, in particular, turning the Breakers' defence this way and that. The home side have seen their performances improve under Conner Watts, but they will need to be a lot better than this if they want to challenge for the top half next season. With Demba Traore's imminent departure, and Robbie McSoul failing to make any impact, it will be back to the drawing board. Things could not look more different for Marionville, who on the face of it, are a couple of players away from having a top-three level squad.

Cornellians clung to top spot, but they were made to work for the three points by a Bara Waves side who had nothing left to lose. It's been a very frustrating season for the artists formerly known as Handon Ladies, who have had to endure defeat after defeat following a promotion that probably came two seasons too soon. The Waves put up a good show in this one, with Ana Aytoun and Abi Teris actually creating some problems for the Eagles defence to deal with. The home side had just too much to offer in attack however, and after a surging run forward from Maeon Vlahos, the Nepharim succeeded in finding Kathryn Kvanderwyk for the only goal of the game.

There was also a brilliant match up at Dyerton Stadium, between a Porty side fighting hard for third place, and a Dundee battling to hold on to the dream of UICA football. While it's not been free of bumps and inconsistencies, it's undoubtedly been a good season for Port Sebastian, and after a performance like this, we can probably expect more of a title push next season. Perpetually on the move in her career so far, it seems Heron Kendall might have finally found a home in Schottia's capital, and her double in this match moved her to within an outside shot at the golden boot. Going down 3-2 in this match, Dundee are team running out of steam, and have probably been undone by the thinness of their playing squad.

In other matches: Goals from David Hughes and Groaré Sasca gave Soessch victory over La Gorlions in the North Island derby. There were ten goals in the match between Snubbeak and New Island, with the scores ending five apiece. And a late goal from Tiferet Ashbrown clinched a 3-2 win for the Royals over Athletic.

SPL
Hillstreet 0–1 Cornellians
Bara Waves 0–1 Port Sebastian
Dundee 0–2 Kings Park
Port James Athletic 3–0 Port Patrick United
Marionville 3–1 Snubbeak Rock
New Island 1–0 FC Soessch
La Gorlions 2–2 New Belfast Blues
Mucusia 0–2 Handon United
New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Hollin
Kirk Preston United 1–1 Lammerton

Port James Athletic made a late charge on the Globe Cup spots, with a comprehensive win over the Breakers. There have been massive improvements in the Seasiders' performances this season, but with such a competitive SPL, staying in the top six has been hard. In this game, however, they were at their very best, with Anna Meyreani once again tearing up the right flank. Connie Malone has been a massive miss in recent weeks since pulling up injured, and her presence in the midfield had made a big difference since Watts reinstated her. Robbie McSuol, despite his form in the First Division has had an absolute nightmare this season, and you would imagine his days in a Breakers shirt are numbered.

We could be on the verge of seeing something quite remarkable, as Marionville hopped up to fourth in the league with a 3-1 win over Snubbeak Rock. Circe Rosenthal threaded through Scott Del Barbaroa for the opener, before Jack Avelione pounced to score the Boys' second. There was no way back from there for the visitors, who looked all out of ideas. Jessica Grey scored the third to cap off what was another impressive display.

Handon United continued to chase down Cornellians, but it may be that time simply runs out. United looked entirely comfortably as they travelled to Port James to take on Mucusia. The pace at which United can break forward gave the Eusabians a torrid time, and while the home side created a few chances in attack, they really looked as if they were taking in water at the back. Daniel Dostalok was a commanding presence in the forward line, and the Mercedinian took his goal well when the opportunity presented itself.

In other results: Port Sebastian had to dig deep to get past Bara 1-0, as they stay third. The late charge from Kings Park continued, as they won 2-0 at Dundee. And New Island scored an impressive win over FC Soessch.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Eight

Player: JK Cottle -- Handon United
Four wins from four, as Handon United try to claw the lead back from Cornellians, who seem determined not to slip up. JK Cottle was part of the exceptional defence, which only conceded a single goal this month, making all the difference.

Young Player: Colin Loweson -- Port Sebastian
It took him a while to settle - way longer than the club might have liked - but Colin Loweson looks to have been a good addition to the team. Originally a bandage job after bids for Renning and Kymeri fell through, this busy midfielder now looks like an integral part of the team.

Manager: Raven Cullen -- Kings Park
There were big shouts for both Gullie and Shale after the top two went on perfect runs this month. However, perhaps more critical were the ten points Cullen's Kings Park picked up in terms of the race for 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th.

SPL
Kirk Preston United 2–1 Hillstreet
Lammerton 3–1 New Belfast Warriors
Hollin 0–0 Mucusia
Handon United 3–0 La Gorlions
New Belfast Blues 1–1 New Island
FC Soessch 0–1 Marionville
Snubbeak Rock 0–5 Port James Athletic
Port Patrick United 1–1 Dundee
Kings Park 2–0 Bara Waves
Port Sebastian 1–0 Cornellians

With only five matches to go, Port Sebastian's one-nil win over Cornellians may prove to be decisive. It's unlikely that the three points will mean much to Porty in terms of their own title ambitions, but ironically, they could be crucial for their rivals'. In a week where United won at a canter, this will have been a sore one for the Eagles, as they desperately looked to reclaim their crown. Porty started David Monks in the centre, and the 22-year-old did a good job in roughing up the Cornellians attack, in what might have been a masterstroke from manager Nicolas Lars. The visitors most certainly had chances with Eklund and Ünterhuansen going close in a tense second half. Porty managed to grind this one out though, and Reinhard Shale will be disappointed with the way his defence let Roisin Carroll through so easily, to score the only goal of the game.

The win keeps Porty ahead of Lammerton who cruised to victory this week over the New Belfast Warriors, with a much-improved performance. With the league so close, Lammerton are in serious danger of coming away with nothing this season, unless they are able to put in some consistent results in the closing matches. Mars Alexandersson was the star of the show, bending home an unreal freekick for the opener, as well as drifting a ball onto the head of Kaytlyne Victoriane for the second. The Hornets' third came as a result of some clever play from Jasper Valaran, as the Cenian picked out Raquel Naeher at the back post for a tap-in.

Handon United could breath a sigh of relief as they leapt back up to the top of the table with a 3-0 win over La Gorlions. The champions were little challenged, as their midfield really put a stranglehold on the game early on, giving the Lions nothing to go on. They were also clean and clinical in attack with goals from Aspenwood, Johnson, and Demetrius leaving Jago Avelione's side with no chance. Jane Gullie's side now know that their fate is in their own hands.

In other results: Jack Hobbs still has an outside chance of the Golden Boot as his hattrick in Athletic's 5-0 win over Snubbeak moved him up to 21 for the season. A stunning double from Leopoldo Ramirez kept Kirk Preston on the fringes of UICA football with a win over Hillstreet. And with Marionville's 1-0 win over FC Soessch, one of the last obstacles between them and the Globe Cup is removed.

SPL
Hillstreet 0–3 Port Sebastian
Cornellians 4–3 Kings Park
Bara Waves 0–1 Port Patrick United
Dundee 3–0 Snubbeak Rock
Port James Athletic 1–0 FC Soessch
Marionville 0–0 New Belfast Blues
New Island 0–2 Handon United
La Gorlions 3–0 Hollin
Mucusia 5–3 Lammerton
New Belfast Warriors 4–4 Kirk Preston United

Just a few games left to go now, and it would seem that the teams are losing their cool left, right, and centre. What on Earth happened to Lammerton? Four-nil down at half time to Mucusia was hardly the position they wanted to find themselves in, with the prospect of grabbing the third Champions' Cup spot still on the table. Eleni Melas scored twice for the Port James side, in what was a rare start for the 19-year-old since returning from loan. Lammerton made changes at half time, and switching to a more conventional 4-4-2 seemed to make some difference. Second half goals from Elspeth Gendening (2), and Dan Renkert were not enough however, as they lost out in this eight-goal match up.

There was another high-scoring match at Lochend, as Kings Park kept Cornellians honest while they looked to retake top spot. This ended up becoming a real battle of the attackers, with both sides boasting impressive forward lines. Billy McCorralie was a real menace down the right for the Royals, where as Mercury and Sibučić were the ones to watch for the home side. Despite Raven Cullen's side pulling level three times in the match, there was always a feeling that Cornellians had just enough in the tank, and that proved to be the case as a Christian Berg header slipped past Marilyn Peterson for the winning goal with eleven minutes left to play.

Kirk Preston's visit to Ashley Road had a bit of a derby feel to it, as the battle to be the top team on the New Belfast peninsula het up. Neither side has really hit it off this season, and this represented a good opportunity for one of them to put their best foot forward going into the last couple of matches. As you would expect in any game involving Kirk Preston, it was a full-blooded game, with big tackles flying in. Miki scored two for the Whalers, in what was one of the Kirisakian's best games since Judy Scott took over. Kirk Preston had Matilda Weiss and Oskar Holst to thank for their late goals, which rescued the point.

Elsewhere: Port Patrick got some badly needed points on the board, as Chase Ziegenhorn's goal was enough to get the better of relegation doomed Bara. Port Sebastian ripped poor Hillstreet apart in a 3-0 win. And Handon United clung on at the top with a 2-0 win over New Island.

SPL
New Belfast Warriors 7–2 Hillstreet
Kirk Preston United 2–0 Mucusia
Lammerton 4–0 La Gorlions
Hollin 1–1 New Island
Handon United 2–3 Marionville
New Belfast Blues 3–1 Port James Athletic
FC Soessch 1–0 Dundee
Snubbeak Rock 0–1 Bara Waves
Port Patrick United 3–3 Cornellians
Kings Park 1–2 Port Sebastian

With the tension cranked up to eleven, it's now all-square again at the top of the table. It's impossible to get anything between the top-two right now, as the SPL looks set to go down to wire for a third year running. Cornellains must have thought they could have stolen a march on their rivals, as they travelled to face Port Patrick, a side who have hardly been synonymous with the word "form" this season. After a topsy-turvy first half, the Eagles finally got themselves in a good position, as Emil Eklund connected with a cross from substitute John Fyfe for 3-2. There was a real nerviness to Cornellians play in the closing stages though, and Demba Traore took advantage to earn a draw for the Breakers.

Simon Johnson returned to heap copious amounts of misery on his former club, as the Warriors man was instrumental in their resounding victory over Hillstreet. Two first half goals spared some of the Huntley side's blushes, but a second half onslaught from the Whalers left the relegation confined club dead in the water. Iana Synder scored three, and was one of the home team's standout performers, alongside Johnson, Somuele der Pros, and Joey Bia. All three of the Drawkish striker's goals came in the last half hour, as the Warriors took their tally for the afternoon to seven. The Warriors, after a tough start to the season, could definitely sneak into the spot after this result.

Marionville could still scrape into the Champions' Cup places, believe it or not, and with this win over Handon United, they could perhaps argue they would deserve it. Now a fully fledged Nepharim international, Circe Rosenthal has really been a cut above the rest, and Handon United could probably do a lot worse if they were looking to improve in that department. They would have had first hand opportunity to take some scout notes today, too, as the 21-year-old cut them wide open for Jack Avelione's winning goal. Especially with the Eagles slipping up, this will be a tough result for United to take, who are now just left with their goal-difference to keep them warm.

Elsewhere: Port Sebastian are now probably feeling quite comfortable in third, as their 2-1 win over Kings Park means it is theirs the throw away. Lammerton will keep pushing Marionville all the way for the first Globe Cup spot, and a 4-0 win over La Gorlions shows they still mean business. And Mucusia's UICA dream seems to now be fading, as they were soundly beaten by Kirk Preston.

SPL
Hillstreet 1–3 Kings Park
Port Sebastian 1–2 Port Patrick United
Cornellians 8–2 Snubbeak Rock
Bara Waves 0–3 FC Soessch
Dundee 2–0 New Belfast Blues
Port James Athletic 3–0 Handon United
Marionville 5–1 Hollin
New Island 0–1 Lammerton
La Gorlions 1–0 Kirk Preston United
Mucusia 0–1 New Belfast Warriors

The lead changed hands once again at the top of the table, as Cornellians recorded their biggest win of the season, with an 8-2 thumping of Snubbeak Rock. The Eagles were utterly majestic as they flowed forward in waves, exposing the gulf between the top and the bottom of the SPL. Emil Eklund bagged four, two either side of half time, as the Buyanese star did his season stats the world of good. There was also a hattrick of assists of the ever-unselfish Kathryn Kvanderwyk; while her countrywoman, Isla Sibučić, looked like a $30,000,000 player stealing the show alongside Irwin and Ünterhausen in the midfield. Tsumugi Narita curled the eighth goal in from the edge of the area, to send the home fans away, feeling very optimistic.

Marionville are now absolutely coasting to fourth place. There were no signs of nerves as they took Hollin apart, and it seems that Jack Cordoba has imbued this team with a genuine sense of belief. Jessica Grey scored two as the Osarian continues to mature into one of the best strikers in the league, playing alongside wonderkid, Jack Avelione. There was just a sense of defeat in the hearts of the Hollin players as one of the longest running SPL clubs looked to be going down. As Laura Carrow belted home the fifth, it seemed to sound the end of this once proud club.

Lammerton will obviously keep fighting till the end, and with Marionville to play next week, there is always hope of overturning the goal difference gap between them. The Hornets faced a visit to New Island, and while it was a game they were expected to win, there was no way the South Berwick side would be making their life easy. That was indeed the case, as Johnny Smith's players needed a 78th minute strike from Kaytlyne Victoriane to ensure the battle for fourth goes down to the wire.

In other matches: Kings Park will still feel that the Globe Cup spot is there to lose, as they shored up their position with a 3-1 win over Kings Park. FC Soessch snap at their heels still though, with a 3-0 victory at Bara. And Port Sebastian stay third despite losing to Port Patrick, as they look to set themselves up with a chance of qualifying for the Champions Cup for the first time next season.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Nine

Player: Jessica Grey -- Marioville
The Osarian is a player, who has climbed to the top of Schottic football the long way. Years in the second tier seem to have only succeeded in making this girl more determined, and more resilient. A great scoring record, and this award will be the cap on an outstanding season, so long as Marionville hold their nerve now.

Young Player: Ezequiel Marchiondo -- Lammerton
Shortlisted for the Galacticos youth index at the start of the season, there was always a feeling that this guy could be the real deal. Feisty and with a lust for blood on the park, he already packs one hell of a punch at eighteen. Fantastic going forward, as you might expect from a Farf wingback, but Marchiondo also has a little more savvy in the defensive areas.

Manager: Jack Cordoba -- Kings Park
Cordoba could probably pick his job after this season, but he will likely have some unfinished business with Marionville. Guaranteed at least a shot at the Globe Cup qualifiers, there may be more to come from the Boys next season.

SPL
Mucusia 4–0 Hillstreet
New Belfast Warriors 0–0 La Gorlions
Kirk Preston United 3–2 New Island
Lammerton 2–1 Marionville
Hollin 0–1 Port James Athletic
Handon United 2–0 Dundee
New Belfast Blues 1–0 Bara Waves
FC Soessch 0–0 Cornellians
Snubbeak Rock 0–3 Port Sebastian
Port Patrick United 0–0 Kings Park

The SPL title couldn't come down to goal difference again? Surly? The rivalry that has sprung up between Cornellians and United can't be good for their supporters' blood pressure, but it's certainly healthy for the SPL, as the teams take it to the wire once again. Handon United are now trailing on goal difference, as the Eagles' mighty 84 goals scored look to be crucial at this stage. United run their guts out in the second half against Dundee, as they looked to overturn that deficit, but in the end had to be content with a 2-0 win, moving them equal on points. Both Daniel Dostalok and Christian Lovenkrads passed up chances in the closing stages, and with two goals in it, you can't help but wonder how this might affect the final outcome.

Cornellians must have been desperate to have more than goals to rely upon in the last game of the season, but as they continued to press FC Soessch for a breakthrough, it became apparent that none would be forthcoming. The Eagles were unable to recreate their cornucopia of goals from the previous match, as they came up against one of the most hardened defences in the league. There was a good opportunity for Kathryn Kvanderwyk to break the deadlock with a few minutes left on the clock, but the Cosumarite turned Jade Irwin's cross just wide.

Possibly the most important match this weekend was the battle for fourth spot, which was every bit as tight as the one for the championship. Lammerton would have liked to have scored a couple more goals, but their 2-1 win over Marionville gives them a fighting chance going into the last game of the season next week. With the match hanging in the balance, Raquel Naeher hit the crucial goal for the Hornets, as the winger looks to be recapturing some of her best form.

Elsewhere: Port Sebastian secured third place with a very relaxed 3-0 win over Snubeak, who also discover they were safe this weekend. Bara Waves 1-0 defeat to New Belfast Blues confirms that they are the third team to face relegation. And Kirk Preston can probably thank their awful start to the season for the fact that they are not looking forward to UICA football now, Ross Killanen's club managed an impressive 3-2 win over New Island.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cornellians            37   22  10   5    84   52  +32    76
 2 Handon United          37   23   7   7    70   40  +30    76
 3 Port Sebastian         37   21   6  10    63   39  +24    69
 4 Marionville            37   19   8  10    66   46  +20    65
 5 Lammerton              37   19   8  10    65   48  +17    65
 6 Kings Park             37   19   5  13    68   55  +13    62
 7 FC Soessch             37   17  10  10    41   26  +15    61
 8 New Belfast Warriors   37   17   8  12    72   62  +10    59
 9 Mucusia                37   16  10  11    60   48  +12    58
10 Port James Athletic    37   17   6  14    64   49  +15    57
11 Kirk Preston United    37   15  12  10    52   42  +10    57
12 New Belfast Blues      37   15  11  11    60   55   +5    56
13 Dundee                 37   16   6  15    43   35   +8    54
14 La Gorlions            37   15   7  15    40   43   −3    52
15 Port Patrick United    37   13   9  15    55   56   −1    48
16 New Island             37   12   6  19    54   65  −11    42
17 Snubbeak Rock          37    6   7  24    35   86  −51    25
18 Bara Waves             37    5   4  28    14   58  −44    19
19 Hollin                 37    2  10  25    13   58  −45    16
20 Hillstreet             37    3   6  28    26   82  −56    15

First Division

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 West Holbrookdale      37   28   3   6    79   37  +42    87
 2 West Coast Warriors    37   23   8   6    89   44  +45    77
 3 Granton Vale           37   21   9   7    70   40  +30    72
 4 Lammerton City         37   20  11   6    57   25  +32    71
 5 Berwick United         37   19   6  12    64   55   +9    63
 6 Central Stars          37   17   8  12    48   42   +6    59
 7 Jena VB                37   17   7  13    56   46  +10    58
 8 Stalker Bay            37   17   5  15    56   55   +1    56
 9 D'Itille               37   16   7  14    61   57   +4    55
10 FC Döllar              37   16   6  15    52   58   −6    54
11 Lochend Town           37   16   5  16    57   58   −1    53
12 Handon North           37   14  10  13    61   52   +9    52
13 Lammerton Eels         37   14   7  16    54   61   −7    49
14 Oak Park Celtic        37   12   9  16    44   50   −6    45
15 Lammerton Wonderers    37   13   4  20    58   65   −7    43
16 Soessch 1990           37   10  12  15    46   54   −8    42
17 University of Handon   37   10   7  20    44   67  −23    37
18 Marionville Thistle    37    5  10  22    43   76  −33    25
19 Toll Cross Academy     37    7   4  26    49   89  −40    25
20 Wolbeck                37    3   6  28    38   95  −57    15

Schottic Cup -- Semi-final
Port Sebastian 2–1 Lochend Town
Berwick United 1–1 Marionville (1–2 AET)

by **Schottia** » Wed Jan 24, 2018 2:45 am

Matchday Thirty-eight & Awards

SPL
Hillstreet 0–2 Port Patrick United
Kings Park 4–1 Snubbeak Rock
Port Sebastian 0–0 FC Soessch
Cornellians 6–2 New Belfast Blues
Bara Waves 0–2 Handon United
Dundee 2–0 Hollin
Port James Athletic 0–1 Lammerton
Marionville 2–1 Kirk Preston United
New Island 0–0 New Belfast Warriors
La Gorlions 1–0 Mucusia

There was to be no dramatic turn of events on the final day of the season, as Cornellians put six past New Belfast Blues, to lift their seventh SPL title in ten years. Things had been hard for the Eagles since the departure of manager, Alexander Pearce, but they've stuck to the task this season and held their nerve when it mattered most. There were huge celebrations in Lochend, the small town which has been turned upside down in the last ten years, since the stadium was built to house the then MPL side. Cornellians history might be a short one, but it is built on success, as title after title have gained them a reputation as one of the top sides in the Multiverse. The match itself was a forgone conclusion by half time, with Reinhard Shale's side already 3-1 up and in control. The only question mark remaining was whether or not Handon United could produce a rugby score at Bara Waves, and reverse the gap in terms of goal difference. United could not, and as Isla Sibučić scored her 20th goal of what has been a remarkable season, Cornellians were assured that the trophy would return to Lochend with a 6-2 win.

Handon United fought bravely right until the end, however the Bara floodgates refused to open, as the already relegated side held on for dear life. Two first half goals were the most United could manage, but with Cornellians winning by four, they needed at least seven to keep their hands on the title. In the end, Natalie Adams and Hiroyo Nunez scored the goals that secured them three points, but not the SPL Trophy.

With Port Sebastian already guaranteed third, the next point of interest was the battle between Marionville and Lammerton for fourth. Both sides won by a single goal margin, meaning that Marionville will compete in the Globe Cup next season. To qualify is a huge achievement for the Boys, but to do it on their first season back in the SPL is massive.

Kings Park ensured they will get another stab at UICA competition also, as they got the three points they needed against Snubbeak Rock. Dejan Corvell has been on fine scoring form this season, and he got on the score sheet this weekend once again, in what was a comfortable game the Royals.

At the other end of the table there will be little surprise that we had to wave goodbye to Hollin, Hillstreet, and Bara. Don't think we've seen the last of any of these teams, but they will now need to go away and try to reinvent themselves in the second tier.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cornellians            38   23  10   5    90   54  +36    79 SPL Champions; Champions Cup
 2 Handon United          38   24   7   7    72   40  +32    79 Champions' Cup
 3 Port Sebastian         38   21   7  10    63   39  +24    70 Champions' Cup Cup Winners' Cup
 4 Marionville            38   20   8  10    68   47  +21    68 Globe Cup
 5 Lammerton              38   20   8  10    66   48  +18    68 Globe Cup
 6 Kings Park             38   20   5  13    72   56  +16    65 Globe Cup
 7 FC Soessch             38   17  11  10    41   26  +15    62
 8 New Belfast Warriors   38   17   9  12    72   62  +10    60
 9 Mucusia                38   16  10  12    60   49  +11    58
10 Port James Athletic    38   17   6  15    64   50  +14    57
11 Dundee                 38   17   6  15    45   35  +10    57
12 Kirk Preston United    38   15  12  11    53   44   +9    57
13 New Belfast Blues      38   15  11  12    62   61   +1    56
14 La Gorlions            38   16   7  15    41   43   −2    55
15 Port Patrick United    38   14   9  15    57   56   +1    51
16 New Island             38   12   7  19    54   65  −11    43
17 Snubbeak Rock          38    6   7  25    36   90  −54    25
18 Bara Waves             38    5   4  29    14   60  −46    19 Relegated
19 Hollin                 38    2  10  26    13   60  −47    16 Relegated
20 Hillstreet             38    3   6  29    26   84  −58    15 Relegated

Player of Year:
The main, player, young player, and manager award winners are selected from a long-list of ten, which is created by the responsible members at the SPL committee. The eventual winner is voted for by prominent members of the Schottic footballing community.

1st: Isla Sibučić -- Cornellians

This young player just seems to be getting better and better - to the extent that it's actually quite frightening. Many 20-year-olds would have frozen under the pressure after being handed such key role with at Cornellians, but it actually seemed to bring the best out of Sibučić. The Cosumarite ghosts past players like they're not there, picks out chip-passes that no one else could see, and finishes coolly under pressure. Tying this girl down on a long-term contract has to be number on priority for Reinhard Shale.

2nd: Regatta Aspenwood -- Handon United

Now with a couple of SPL seasons under her belt, we are really starting to see the best of Regatta Aspenwood. If it weren't for the superhuman antics of Isla Sibučić, the Nepharim international would have been a worthy Player of The Year. Quick, agile, stands up strong in the challenge, she has all the attributes needed to make an impact against the more physical defences in Schottia. Another sixteen goals this season illustrates just how important a player she is to United. A rapid winger and a goal scorer, she is another player who likely has her best years ahead of her.

3rd: Paul Doig -- Port Sebastian

Paul Doig is testament to what an average player can achieve with a little bit of luck... and oodles of hard graft. The Schottic international might not be easy on the eye, but he is consistent, and very effective at marshalling the left flank. Other qualities are important in a player too, loyalty being one of them, with Doig being the archetypal one club man.

4th: Dilon Bánach -- Handon United

The career of this young Schottian has rocketed over the past eighteen months, as both Handon United and Schottia's rise up the world standing has seen her thrust to the forefront. Bánach is very much the full package as midfielders go; she has all the physical attributes you would want, and a good footballing head to go with it. Along with teammate, Louis Hordern, there is a lot of pressure on her shoulders right now, given the fact that United have been blamed for mismanagement of their youth players in the past. New boss, Jane Gullie, is determined to do it right, and at them moment Bánach is the jewel in the crown in that regard.

5th: Jessica Grey -- Marionville

The Osarian's goals have been so important to Marionville on what has been a fairytale season for the club. It's hard to believe that even the most optimistic fan would have predicted this, after the Boys were relegated two years ago. Grey looks more and more like the complete striker with every passing year, and like many of Marionville's up and coming players, they will be doing well to hold on to her.

Long-list: JK Cottle (Handon United), Jade Irwin (Cornellians), Kaytlyne Victoriane (Lammerton), Circe Rosenthal (Marionville), Alisdair Nesbo (New Belfast Blues)

Golden Boot (Top Scorer):

1st: 29 Emil Eklund -- Cornellians

2nd: 27 Daniel Dostalok -- Handon United

3rd: 26 Jack Hobbs -- Port James Athletic

| Heron Kendall -- Port Sebastian

5th: 24 Jessica Grey -- Marionville

| Kaytlyne Victoriane -- Lammerton

|

7th: 20 Isla Sibučić -- Cornellians

| Leopoldo Ramirez -- Kirk Preston United

| Dejan Corvell -- Kings Park

10th: 18 Kathryn Kvanderwyk -- Cornellians

| Jack Jevđenijević -- New Belfast Warriors

| Lasse Schnarnberg -- New Belfast Blues

Scorers below equal tenth not listed

Young Player of The Year:
1st: Isla Sibučić -- Cornellians

See player of the year awards.

2nd: Dilon Bánach -- Handon United

See player of the year awards.

3rd: Circe Rosenthal -- Marionville

The former Morningstar midfielder is another player with a big future in the game. Already forcing her way into the Nephara team with her impressive displays, the sky is likely to be the limit for this young player. The confidence, and skill she exhibited this season, make it hard to believe that Rosenthal is still only 21. An intelligent and intricate playmaker, she is also strong on the ball, and good running forward to support the attack.

4th: Jack Avelione -- Marionville

Most would probably agree that this season on loan has done Avelione good. It has most certainly also done Marionville good, as have his 16 goals and 14 assists, helping them claim the first Globe Cup spot. It's going to take a lot for the teenager to fully step out from under the shadow of his father and uncle, but Jack is moving in the right direction. Whether or not he has done enough to impress parent club, Bastion... well we'll have to wait and see, but Marionville will most certainly be sorry to see the back of him.

5th: Anna Meyreani -- Port James Athletic

After being discovered playing football on a beach on holiday in Port Christopher, it's fair to say Anna Meyreani has come a long way. The former New St Johns winger has unbelievable talent, and if her career continues on an even keel, she will be a big star for Schottia in years to come. She is tall, quick, and beats players for fun, no one expected her to get this good, this quickly. Athletic may have a spot of bother hanging on to her.

Long-list: Oskar Holst (Kirk Preston United) Louis Hordern (Handon United) Colin Loweson (Port Sebastian) Charlotte Ünterhausen (New Belfast Blues) Jack Jevđenijević (New Belfast Warriors)

Manger of The Year:
1st: Jack Cordoba -- Marionville

The way the Christopheran has transformed Marionville is nothing short of a miracle. Cordoba has brought youth, energy and dynamism to the club, totally reinvigorating it. His tactics are solid, his signings have been shrewd, and when you look at the starting line up, every single player seems to be pulling their weight.

2nd: Reinhard Shale -- Cornellians

Shale has finally made it. Nothing short of a league title would have got the Nepharim on this chart, and you have to say it has been thoroughly deserved. This season he has really got the balance right, the players he has brought in have been the right ones, he has added depth, steeliness, and a defensive capability that was missing last season. His handling of young players such as Berg and Sibučić should also not be played down either, and he has brought both of them through the youth ranks, turning them into established first team players.

3rd: Lily Kitman -- Mucusia

Kitman has nothing to work with, and in terms of budget, Mucusia are close to bottom of the SPL. They were a club based on the principle of doing things right, and in that regard, they are already winners. To finish ninth, and be in with a shout of UICA football, Kitman and her players deserve a big pat on the back.

Signing of The Year:
This is awarded to the incoming player who made the biggest impact relative to price, profile, and reputation.

Lasse Schnarnberg -- New Belfast Blues

Brinemouth. Free.
With eighteen goals, and some very handsome performances, Schnarnberg has proven himself well worth the Zero NS$ the club paid Brinemouth for his services. The Blues thought they were signing a grafter who was going to lead the line, but the 22-year-old has fitted into the system well, and also added goals to his game.

Team of The Year:
Differently to the player of the year awards, the official team of the year is voted for by the Schottic public. This is why the players can differ from those selected for the official awards, and normally come from the teams with the larger support bases.

GK= Shjegrzh Na'Kefir
DEF= Johnson - Doig - Cottle - Joon Ho Hwang
MID= Hartsdown - Irwin - Bánach
FOR= Sibučić - Eklund - Aspenwood

Schottic Cup -- Final @ Duke Street Stadium

Marionville 0-1 Port Sebastian
Scorers: 67" Kendall

One paper this had all the making of a big one. Porty have been impressive this season so far, as have Marionville on their return to the SPL. This was third verses fourth, one club with a phenomenal Cup pedigree, and another looking to get their hands it for the first time in the UICA era. Marionville probably actually started better, with Avelione and Rosenthal causing the Porty defence all sorts of trouble. Jessica Grey saw a header tipped over the bar by keeper, MG Grumbla, and the Boney reacted well moments later, to scoop a Dawn Morham strike off the line. Despite this pressure the Port Sebastian defence held firm, and as the game went on, they began to enjoy a little more possession. Colin Loweson rattled the woodwork with a long-range effort, and there was a good headed chance for Eloisa Purinton as the game entered the latter stages. With 67 minutes on the clock, the deadlock was finally broken, as the talismanic figure of Heron Kendall reacted quickest to prod the ball past Krista Till for the only goal of the game.

MOTM: MG Grumbla

First Division Final Matchday & Awards

Berwick United 1–1 Lammerton City
Stalker Bay 0–0 Handon North
Marionville Thistle 2–0 West Holbrookdale
Granton Vale 2–0 Oak Park Celtic
Lammerton Wonderers 0–1 West Coast Warriors
Soessch 1990 2–0 Jena VB
FC Döllar 2–4 Central Stars
Wolbeck 0–1 University of Handon
Toll Cross Academy 3–4 D'Itille
Lammerton Eels 4–1 Lochend Town

At the end of long hard season, most pundits would probably agree that the best team won. No one has ever criticised West Holbrookdale, or manager Grant Nean, for lack of effort, only their inability to get the results. The debate as to whether or not Nean is a maverick genius will likely continue, but on this occasion, the team succeeded in passing the ball into the back of the net. The Dale romped home after a slow start to the season, in what will be seen by many as an victory for the right kind of football. Mirka Shitakuari was a key figure upfront for the club, yet again, and her 21 goals were a huge contribution to the to their First Division title.

Some distance behind Grant Nean's side, but comfortably in second place were the West Coast Warriors who narrowly missed out last season. The former WSL side will now follow in the footsteps of Bara Wave (although hoping they fair a little better) when the have a crack at the top flight next season. The Warriors are another side whose style of play is very easy one the eye, and they managed an impressive 90 goals last season. With the likes of Freya MacCosgraigh, Gabi Bear and Livia Hassenthaler, they are also much more direct that the Dale, which will stand them in better stead in the SPL.

The play-off winners were something of a surprise this year, with Central Stars coming out of nowhere to beat some very good teams to the third promotion spot. Granton Vale and Lammerton City will both be gutted to have another season in the First Division to endure, after playing much better football throughout the season as a whole. When the Stars took on Lammerton City in the final, we knew one way or another that the Hornets would be guaranteed another derby next year. There would have been few, however, who would have predicted it was going to be this way round.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 West Holbrookdale      38   28   3   7    79   39  +40    87 Champions
 2 West Coast Warriors    38   24   8   6    90   44  +46    80 Promoted
 3 Granton Vale           38   22   9   7    72   40  +32    75
 4 Lammerton City         38   20  12   6    58   26  +32    72
 5 Berwick United         38   19   7  12    65   56   +9    64
 6 Central Stars          38   18   8  12    52   44   +8    62 Promoted via the Play-offs
 7 Jena VB                38   17   7  14    56   48   +8    58
 8 D'Itille               38   17   7  14    65   60   +5    58
 9 Stalker Bay            38   17   6  15    56   55   +1    57
10 FC Döllar              38   16   6  16    54   62   −8    54
11 Handon North           38   14  11  13    61   52   +9    53
12 Lochend Town           38   16   5  17    58   62   −4    53
13 Lammerton Eels         38   15   7  16    58   62   −4    52
14 Soessch 1990           38   11  12  15    48   54   −6    45
15 Oak Park Celtic        38   12   9  17    44   52   −8    45
16 Lammerton Wonderers    38   13   4  21    58   66   −8    43
17 University of Handon   38   11   7  20    45   67  −22    40
18 Marionville Thistle    38    6  10  22    45   76  −31    28
19 Toll Cross Academy     38    7   4  27    52   93  −41    25
20 Wolbeck                38    3   6  29    38   96  −58    15

Play-off Semi-finals:

Granton Vale 2–3 Central Stars
Lammeron City 2–0 Berwick United

Play-off Semi-finals:
Lammerton City 0–1 Central Stars

First Division Player of Year:
Freya MacCosgraigh -- West Coast Warriors

First Division Golden Boot:
Lucy Khoroushi -- Granton Vale

(31 goals)

First Division Young Player of Year:
Ian MacLauren -- West Holbrookdale

First Division Manager of Year:
Chris Pilum -- Central Stars

First Division Team of Year:

GK: Gary O'Mara
DEF: Liam Kinnard - James Small - Aisla Porteon - Sven Allman
MID: Freya MacCosgraigh - Ian MacLauren - Gabi Bear
FOR: Livia Hassenthaler - Mirka Shitakuari - Lucy Khoroushi

Second Division - Third Tier
First and second placed sides, along with the winners of the play-offs, gain promotion to the First Division. The bottom three sides are relegated to the regional divisions.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Anacy                         38   24  10   4    85   38  +47    82 Champions
 2 Oxlaey Court                  38   24   6   8    77   48  +29    78 Promoted
 3 Baumann VB                    38   22   7   9    73   40  +33    73
 4 Regional Development Side C   38   21   8   9    67   41  +26    71
 5 Regional Development Side B   38   20  11   7    67   51  +16    71
 6 New Town Thistle              38   18  12   8    63   42  +21    66 Promoted via Play-off
 7 Soessch Mountaineers          38   16  11  11    60   52   +8    59
 8 Dundee Rovers                 38   16   7  15    64   55   +9    55
 9 Coldstream Farmers Union      38   14  11  13    66   64   +2    53
10 Soessch Red Star              38   16   5  17    58   66   −8    53
11 Allous VB                     38   15   7  16    71   56  +15    52
12 Regional Development Side A   38   14  10  14    77   65  +12    52
13 Regional Development Side D   38   14  10  14    64   56   +8    52
14 Herman Park                   38   13  13  12    56   64   −8    52
15 Bolton Green                  38   14   9  15    39   48   −9    51
16 Port Newtown                  38   11   7  20    45   66  −21    40
17 Huntley Hunters               38    8   4  26    35   76  −41    28
18 Belker Reds                   38    6  10  22    34   80  −46    28 Relegated
19 Adelly Road                   38    6   8  24    41   71  −30    26 Relegated
20 Lochkirkly                    38    1   8  29    27   90  −63    11 Relegated

Play-Offs: Semi Final
New Town Thistle 1-0 Soessch Mountaineers @Ashley Road Stadium
Dundee Rovers 3-1 Baumann VB @Gannon Park

Play-Offs: Final
New Town Thistle 4-1 Dundee Rovers @Harbour Hill Stadium

Second Division, Player of The Year:
1st: Gabriel Fently, Regional Development Side A

2nd: Fritz Menika, Oxlaey Court

3rd: Luisa Fogarty, Anacy

Golden Boot: Fritz Menika

(28 goals)

Youth Football - Junior Championship

.                             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Regional Development Side D   30   15   8   7    61   46  +15    53 Champions
 2 Handon United                 30   13  10   7    45   36   +9    49
 3 Dundee                        30   14   6  10    48   43   +5    48
 4 Marionville                   30   12  11   7    44   35   +9    47
 5 Cornellians                   30   14   4  12    41   41    0    46
 6 Port James Athletic           30   14   2  14    37   35   +2    44
 7 Regional Development Side B   30   11  10   9    51   41  +10    43
 8 FC Soessch                    30   12   7  11    37   35   +2    43
 9 New Belfast Warriors          30   12   6  12    41   40   +1    42
10 Bara Waves                    30   11   8  11    58   54   +4    41
11 Regional Development Side A   30   11   7  12    41   45   −4    40
12 Regional Development Side C   30   10   9  11    46   47   −1    39
13 Port Sebastian                30   10   3  17    43   54  −11    33
14 Lammerton                     30    9   6  15    34   49  −15    33
15 Kings Park                    30    8   8  14    36   52  −16    32
16 La Gorlions                   30    8   7  15    38   48  −10    31

Junior Championship, Player of The Year:
1st: Bob Ingleburn, Regional Development

2nd: Timur Salai, Handon United

3rd: Thomas Still, Cornellians

by **Schottia** » Fri Mar 02, 2018 11:46 am

2028-29

Preview
-Part One-

Playing squads for the upcoming season, with provisional starting eleven, and notable reserves. (Please note that many of the players named as substitutes are part of rotations systems, and are used regularly.) Clubs listed in no particular order. Second nationalities in parentheses.

Club Information: Cornellians have turned Schottic football on its head in their short history. The side were originally created to represent Schottia in the Multiverse Premier League, but when the concept went belly up after only two seasons, Schottic football was left with the 80,000 seater Lochend Stadium and a sporting franchise gathering dust. Their switch to the SPL was not universally popular; even now there are many who still oppose it, and the club have never been wholly popular. The Eagles are the most successful club in Schottia's UICA era, winning seven of the ten league titles they have competed for, never finishing lower than third. Former Crisisbless and Nephara boss, Reinhard Shale, took over from Alexander Pearce three seasons ago, and it would appear he is now making his mark on the side.

The Current Squad: I think we can now safely say, we are looking at Reinhard Shale's football team. The Nepharim manager has been busy over the past two seasons, and splashed out another $26,000,000 on transfers during the window, leaving the squad in very good shape. Brenecian skipper, Catherine Gryphon, is one of the best in the business at one what she does; a world-class defensive midfielder who should take what the SPL has to offer in her stride. The Eagles' other summer signing, Isidra Jeurissen, comes with Nephara caps to her name, and more importantly has experience playing in the top league in the world. She has massive boots to fill, stepping in the position vacated by skipper Triffid Ramsey, but Shale clearly believes in her. The forward positions remain unchanged in the summer overhaul, with newly appointed team captain, Kathryn Kvanderwyk partnering the prolific Buyanese, Emil Eklund. The star of the show last season was Isla Sibučić, and the Cosumarite attacker now features centre stage, in her preferred justposition behind the front two. With the likes of Johannes Ünterhausen, Jade Irwin, and Gryphon all completing the midfield diamond, the Eagles look to have every inch a SPL winning side. Defence has been a weakness for Cornellians in the past, but the signing of Dragora Steelhenge last season made all the difference. She slots in at centre-back alongside Pasargan, Christian Berg, who continues to develop into a top defender. Jeurissen of course goes straight in at left-back, opposite countryman and former Chatwood right-back, Maeon Vlahos, who brings some valuable aggression to the back line. Schottia number one, Harry Gould, take is place in goals.

Prediction: 1st. Reigning champions, and they look even stronger on paper than they did last season. They're competitive in every department, with a fantastic bench to call upon - it will take a lot for any team to catch them.

Star player: Isla Sibučić | Rising Star: John Fyfe

International Competition This Season: Champions' Cup

Club Information: Handon United are traditionally the nation's biggest and most successful side, even if Cornellians have staked a claim on that honour in recent years. Historically they were the city centre club, drawing their support from the wealthy quayside area, the city merchants, and the universities. This has often meant they have come into direct conflict with their northern neighbours - in particular Port Sebastian - who have always self identified as a workingman's club. This rivalry - The Handon Derby - has been one of the enduring fixtures in Schottic football and is still hotly contested today. Initially United struggled to adjust to the change of pace which the UICA era brought in, and at points, it looked as if they would slip from their perch. The arrival of Jane Gullie as manager has brought about an upturn in their fortunes however, along with back to back league titles and a run to the Champions' Cup final.

The Current Squad: United are another club who have spent big this summer. Golden Girl, Dilon Bánach might have made her way to the exit door, but with Marc-André Onasi and Line Stenberg coming in the opposite direction, the fans should have been appeased to some extent. Cenain, Onasi, will slot in on the right side of United's three-pronged attack alongside Regatta Aspenwood, and Daniel Dostalok. Onasi has been on incredible form in Port Christopher and the only question hanging over him is whether or not he can make the step up. With he and Aspenwood out wide, and Dolstalok through the middle, United should have no difficulties in finding the back of the net. Schottia international, Stenberg, will start as the central player in this three man United midfield. The dynamic young player will be flanked by playmaker Natalie Adams, and the quietly effective Rachel Hellion in a midfield that offers a bit of everything. With veteran, Lukas Finnan, making way at centre-back, there is a bit of a defensive reshuffle. Equestrian international, Brix Hamilton, moves across to centre alongside Boney skipper, JK Cottle. Euran youngster, Jayden Fox, returns at left-back after a successful loan spell in Cosumar. Powerful Schottia right-back, Louis Hordern, will be another key player for United, and is probably now considered one of the best in the business. Keeper, Shjegrzh Na'Kefir, has proven himself to be reliable between the sticks, and was also part of Cosumar's World Cup Qualifying squad.

Prediction: 2nd. Taking everything into account, second place is probably the most likely outcome. That doesn't mean to say that United won't push Cornellians all the way however, and this season is no forgone conclusion.

International Competition This Season: Champions Cup.

Star Player: Louis Hordern | Rising Star: Jayden Fox

Club Information: Port Sebastian hold the honour of being one of only three clubs to have lifted the SPL title, since UICA cash turned the whole thing on its head. They are a proud, old club, with a fierce and loyal support. Porty's fan base is very much parochial, and is almost exclusively drawn from the large housing estates surrounding the stadium. Originally a members' club for the workers at the now decommissioned shipyard, that tough, hard-bitten ethos is something that has stayed with the team. It would appear that the club are slowing losing ground on United and Cornellians as the limitations of their budget become more apparent, that said, they have most certainly not given up the chase.

The Current Squad: Nicolas Lars ended his two year pursuit of Cenian youngster, Avi Renning, completing a $9,000,000 move for the midfielder whom he has gone on record describing as one of the best in the business. After a lot of coming and going last season, the 19-year-old is the club's only big signing, with Vera Cummings making way in a return to girlhood club, Dundee. Porty will go with the lethal front line of Eloisa Purinton and Heron Kendall. The prolific Gloriaxian has scored a devastating amount of goals over the last ten years, and alongside Nepharim talisman, Kendall, the Porty attack could take some getting to grips with. In the wide areas, the Handon side have pace in abundance, with rising Schottia star Alexander Alan and Roisin Carroll both capable of getting in behind the wingbacks. After a disappointing first half of the season, former Hollin skipper, Colin Loweson, really came onto a game in the second half, and he will provide the defensive cover for Renning. Teenager, Renning, has proven himself to be a ruthless, cutting edge playmaker, and he will hopefully provide that extra spark the side were missing last season. With Paul Doig and Joon Ho Hwang in defence, Porty easily have one of the best back lines in the country. Add Esther Abner into the mix, and you have a very strong side, with Erwin MacNeil growing in stature also. After making his debut aged 19, MG Grumbla is now emerging as a top young keeper, and that will be important for Lars' side.

Prediction: 4th. Porty are one of the teams in with a shot, for sure, but they don't have anywhere near the wage budget of the top-two. They are perhaps even with Lammerton - player for player - but the Hornets have the more settled squad.

International Competition This Season: Champions' Cup Cup

Star Player: Paul Doig | Rising Star: Avi Renning

Club Information: Lammerton's iconic yellow and black stripes are one of the SPL's enduring features. The Hornets pride themselves on attacking football, and to be sure, many of the countries best forwards have come through the ranks at the City Ground. The club had their heyday in the 1970's and since then there have been ups and downs for a club who have been generally upper-mid-table. The last decade has seen a big upturn in their fortunes however, and while the title has always eluded them, they are one of the side who have pushed Cornellians and United the hardest.

The Current Squad: With a very settled squad of players, Lammerton will be desperate to grab one of the automatic Champions' Cup places this season, and prove that they can pose a challenge to the top-clubs. The star of the Hornets attack is Kaytlyne Victoriane, a player they are frankly lucky to have. Although more of a natural striker, she has proven herself highly effective in the wing-forward role. Through the middle, Elspeth Glendening has Schottia caps to her name, while left-winger, Raquel Naeher has been a squad player with Nephara for a number of seasons. Jasper Valaran is the player in midfield who gels the whole thing together; he is the linchpin, the pinpoint passer, and man who makes them tick. Alongside the Cenian, Mars Alexandersson brings some spunk and a real attacking energy to the midfield, whereas Robard Horvat is the slow, steady workhorse, who gets the job done. Ezequiel Marchiondo has been a revelation at right-back, and with senior Farfadillis caps to his name already, this fiery teenager might be difficult for the club to hold onto long-term. Left-back, Luke Svensson, is another internationalist, this time with Super-Llammaland, and the versatile John van Cleef has represented Schottia at U21 level.

Prediction: 4th. Lammerton should improve on last season's result. They have a great squad on paper, they just need to put together a consistent run and they'll be right up there.

Star player: Kaytlyne Victoriane | Rising Star: Ezequiel Marchiondo

International Competition This Season: Globe Cup

Club Information: The North Island's finest, FC Soessch are the biggest club from Schottia's predominantly German speaking region, Bergstadt. While they still draw a massive support, they have lost a bit of ground on the title chasers over the last decade, and their old tag as number one challengers to Handon United is probably long gone. They still have the facilities and resources, but probably not the platform to attract the top players these days– and that shows. Former Schottia boss, Barry Gorman has made a difference since coming in as manager, and with their performances on the up, they really need a strong league finish to capitalise.

The Current Squad: FC Soessch have bolstered their attack going into the new season, with a $6,000,000 deal for 23-year-old wing froward, Allie Vacek. The former Kylde and Anglatia star was once one of the nation's top prospects, and will certainly give the North Island side another option in attack. With Melanie Ünterhausen returning to her girlhood heroes for a second spell, after five years in Abanhfelt, Die Rote Teufel have definitely bolstered up in that department. Their main role will be in providing the bullets for old-fashioned centre-forward, David Hughes. Hughes is a big source of goals, but not an awful lot else, and it's typical of the way Barry Gorman likes to build his teams, with a big target-man striker, surrounded by smaller more creative types. Of all those, Groaré Sasca has perhaps proven himself to be most capable, with the Farf attacker in fine form since joining the club two years ago. Laura Smith and Kerstin Dornenberger hold things together in the midfield, providing a first line of defence in what is one of the best rearguards in the country. Tamika November has been outstanding at centre-back, playing alongside former Schottia international Ben Ross. DBC star, Alexi Ceanadach is another player coming onto a game at left-back, with experienced Cosumarite defender, Temasso Tenebrosa, playing on the right. Former Lammerton and NBB goalie, Jim Black, has four caps for Schottia, and is a solid presence at the back of this team.

Prediction: 6th. Player for player, there is no reason they can't do well this season, and even finishing as high as third is not beyond them. If Soessch can add more goals to their game, then they are easily the match for the likes of Porty and the Hornets.

Star Player: Groaré Sasca | Rising Star: Alexi Ceanadach

Club Information: There are few sides who have seen more highs and lows in recent years than Marionville. The Old Boys have made a few charges on the UICA spots, but have also seen their club relegated in the last ten years. Thing seem to be on the up now, however, and fourth place last season is a testament to how they have turned their fortunes around. Marionville have always been a club who like to play attractive football, even to the extent it has been their downfall on occasions. This beautiful little town, made up of canal ways, bridges, and cobble streets might not scream footballing powerhouse; but they have enough fans, and enough resources to mount a sustained top four push.

The Current Squad: After a season of really splashing the cash, this will be about consolidating the players they have, and their position within the league. Jack Cordoba has done a tremendous job, since taking over as boss, as the team he has built up from scratch defied all the odd in finishing fourth in their first season back. Jessica Grey really rose to the challenge last season after joining from Soessch 90, and the Osarian will need to try and adjust to having a new strike partner in the form of Suilven Roagart. Jack Avelione's loan spell comes to an end, but the Old Boys have additional cover in the form of Scott Del Barbaroa. Circe Rosenthal is the real star of the show in the midfield, and the classy Nepharim player really took the league by storm last season. Alongside her, in countrywoman Laura Carrow, Andrew Bell, and Vojnomir Nikolic, Marionville have a young and highly dynamic midfield. The entire back-four have all been brought in by Cordoba, as the manager has transformed the team's defence. Alex Pearce Jr, Pablo Altamirano, and Dawn Morham are all young and ambitious players, with skipper Donald Nesbit keeping them in check. Keeper, Krista Till, is a squad player with 95X.

Prediction: 5th. We don't see any real problems for Marionville, who look more or less as good as the side that nearly snatched third last season. Nothing can be taken for granted, but they are one of eight or nine teams who are all in the mix.

International Competition This Season: Globe Cup

Star Player: Jessica Grey | Rising Star: Circe Rosenthal

With their stadium nestled amongst the old terraced fisherman's houses of New Belfast - almost built into the streets themselves - the Warriors are a team at the very heart of the community. Before sponsorship and prize money turned the SPL on it's head, the Whalers could compete with anyone in the league, and were a force to be reckoned with. They seem to have now settled as safe mid-table side - strong top half finishers, with the UICA spots often out of reach. A good reputation, and tales of their former glories, keep the Warriors' heads well above water, but there is no doubt they're felling the affects of budgetary restrictions.

The Current Squad: Jack Jevđenijević's transfer to Oldhem Knights was not part of the plan for Judy Scott, as the Warriors' summer got of to the worst possible start, with their star striker heading for the ANL. It's been a summer of clear out, with a lot of dead wood heading to the exit, as Judy Scott looked to streamline things going forward. Avila Wardenier may prove to be a shrewd signing, with the Sabrefell Athletic striker coming in as an experienced replacement to Jevđenijević. Wardenier will get plenty of support from Drawkish forward Iana Synder, who likes to operate in wide areas. With a solid base in the centre of midfield provided by Tomás Fierro and Samuele der Pros, the Whalers shouldn't be bossed out of many games this season. Sanchia Diaz joins the club for a second time, after Hillstreet were relegated last season. The former Christopheran international, who left the Warriors as a teenager, will add some pace to the defence. Right back, Simon Johnson, won his first cap during the most recent Independents Cup, and along with big centre-backs, JayRay Cranleigh and Tygo Pasha, the club are perhaps strongest at the back.

Prediction: 10th. The way they have collapsed towards the end of the last two seasons will not fill many of the fans with confidence. The impact made by Wardenier will be key to their fortunes, as will Der Pros re-finding his top form.

Star Player: Somuele der Pros | Rising Star: JayRay Cranleigh

Club Information: Nicknamed "Handon's Wee Team" based on the fact that they have always been on the outside of the bitter rivalries between the likes of Handon United and Port Sebastian. Kings Park might be geographically very close to United, but they have always kept to themselves to an extent. They have a small but loyal support who fill the home section of Lochely Green to capacity most weeks. The Royals seemed to be on something of a downward spiral, however, since Raven Cullen's appointment as manager, they look to be re-establishing themselves as a top six club.

The Current Squad: This is the best Royals side we have seen in a long time, with Cullen having assembled a team of players capable punching well above their weight. There is pace and strength by the bucked load, as well as some real vision and guile. With a predatory striker in the form of Dejan Corvell, sandwiched between two of the fastest winger in the league, Kings Park will take a lot of stopping. Tsumugi Narita comes into the midfield after making a three million switch from Cornellians. The Kiri will add yet more quality to the central area, combining with playmaker Meghan Hartsdown and the dynamic Sendoa to form a very capable unit. Anna Lombardi comes in at centre-back after her $800,000 move from the Warriors, and the Iron Syndicate star has big boots to fill, stepping in for retiring captain, Darren Hanlon. Marilyn Peterson has also looked the part since joining the Royals at the start of last season, and the Equestrian keeper has added some stability at the back for this club.

Prediction: 7th. Seventh going on for fifth, Kings Park have their work cut out, but they can push for the automatic UICA spots. They need to tighten up at the back, but if they manage that, then they could really spring a surprise.

Star player: Meghan Hartsdown | Rising star: Billy McCorralie

Club Information: Port Patrick have always been the poorer neighbours to fellow north Handon side, Port Sebastian. The two harbours more or less back onto one and other, so the Breakers have had a good close up look at Porty's considerable success. They were a sleeping-giant for years, languishing in the second tier. A big, soft club with a half empty stadium and dwindling finances; their fortunes were transformed ten years ago with Des Pleent's time as manager. Attendances are now at an all time high, and the club consistently find themselves in the top half of the table, pushing hard for the Globe Cup places. They have somehow never been able to shake that poorer relation tag, however, and it has been a bit of a mental block for the Galloway Road side.

The Current Squad: The Breakers really ran into a bit of trouble last year, and they need to hit the ground running here. Conner Watts has been a solid (if not slightly controversial) choice as manager, and the former league winner with Porty, has set about making the team harder to beat. At $12,500,000 Chimera Moxham is the clubs record signing, and the teenager's arrival has caused something of a stir at Galloway Lane. Additionally, Watts has brought Aleksander Heino-Watanabe with him from Hillstreet, along with Bara's Mike Weber. Port Patrick have clearly decided to switch to one up front, with Chase Ziegenhorn set to lead the line alone - a big ask for the 20-year-old Cenian. Moxham will provide the support, and will be given a large degree of freedom in the traditional number-ten position. In Heino-Watanabe and Connie Malone, the Breakers have a no nonsense centre of midfield, which should allow the attacking players a licence to roam. Whitney Kelly is a player who has really grown in stature over the last twelve month, putting in some mature and accomplished performances on the right wing. Mike Weber will join a defence who have all been capped for Schottia at youth level - a promising group if they can hold together. Altavian Kalhoro, is also very much improved, and is now looking like a season goal keeper.

Prediction: 8th. Port Patrick will want to be in the Globe Cup places, and it won't take much improvement for that to happen. How Moxham and Heino-Watanabe settle into the team will be important.

Star Player: Whitney Kelly | Rising star: Chimera Moxham

Club Information: You should never write off a team whose reputation is built around being perennial overachievers. Danu Parc is the Lions' fortress, where high in the North Mountains the altitude can be a real killer, and it's one of the biggest factors behind this teams phenomenal home record. This small town club might not have much in the way of cash, but what they do have is grit and determination in abundance, and they play hard, physical football. Managed by the Avelione brothers, La Gorlions are fast, direct, and they will without doubt take a few big scalps over the course of a season.

The Current Squad: the Lions take to the field with a fairly young, largely home-grown squad of players; their budgetary constraints once again limiting their recruitment capabilities. The Avelione brothers go with a little and large strike force, Cephus Hunt and Kirsten Gemmill, who give the club a fairly well rounded attack. Operating at the top of a midfield diamond, Brendan Ranald is an unorthodox, strong, burly playmaker. Former Port Sebastian wide girl, Andrya Novkovic, is the own who makes the Lions tick, and is the player they look to when they need something extra special. The central defensive pairing of Purteer and Pfab is experienced, but at 34, both have now seen better days.

Prediction: 14th. La Gorlions are probably the best of the lower mid-table chasers, and with home advantage could press on into the top half. Quality is an issue, but their strength will make them difficult to play against.

Star player: Andrya Novkovic | Rising star: Brendan Ranald

by **Schottia** » Tue Mar 06, 2018 12:19 am

-Part Two-

Club Information: The transformation in Dundee over the last ten years has been incredible. This small, relatively poor Southern Schottia side have gone from yo-yo team, to one capable of pushing for the top-six. With the redevelopment of Granier Road Park complete, Dundee now have an 18,000 seater stadium removing what had been seen as a glass ceiling for this club. Uniquely situated between Handon and Lammerton, Dundee are in a perfect place to pick up graduates from the big academies, looking platform to get some first team football.

Current Squad: Dundee have seen that breaking into the top six can be a lot harder than it looks, as years of pressing hard for the UICA places have seen them only once grab the honour. They've had a couple of real assaults on the top of the table, but selling your best players all the time isn't the best idea. The club have, however, brought one of those players back, with Vera Cummings making her return to the club after six seasons with Port Sebastian. Sett Horn is a huge talent for up front, and the Cosumarite can definitely score the goals they need to challenge at the top. Chris Davis, and Mark Keane provide pace and invention on either wing, with Heidi Spearing a competent if not a little unpredictable number ten. With Cummings and Jim Gerrish in the centre, the Panners have a double act who have both been capped for Schottia in recent years. In spite of all this, Dundee are strongest at the back, with Poppy Fayrkirk, and Jeremy Buckthorn both highly impressive in their respective positions.

Prediction: 12th. While Dundee can do a lot better than this, their fate might not be in their own hands. They may have to rely on some of the teams predicted to finish above them slipping up

Star Player: Mark Keane | Rising star: Sett Horn

Club Information: The quintessential sleeping giants, Athletic have been reduced to the role of backing singers during the UICA era. With the support and infrastructure the club have, they should be looking at the top four places, but more often than not, find themselves in the bottom half of the table. They have spent the last ten year lurching from one disappointment to another, most recently finishing below their much smaller neighbours, Mucusia. Since former Pirates manager Jimmy Mitchel took charge, performances have been on the way up; however, it's come a point where they really need to convert those performances into some tangible success.

Current Squad: Three million dollars for Mark Annand... Hmmmm..? We'll need to wait and see if that proves to be good value for money for the Lochend Town man, but on the face of it, the figure looks steep. Annand has been prolific in the lower leagues, and alongside Jack Hobbs will hopefully get the goals the side need to mount a challenge on the top of the league. In the midfield all eyes will be on teenager Anna Meyreani, who is the sparkling light in an otherwise robust and experienced area for this side. Evangeline Querón, and Claire Beresford are both tough and seasoned campaigners, who you can bet will get stuck in. It's a feature of all Mitchel's sides, the fact that they play with a back three, and with a player like Pepe Edgar in the middle, they have the quality to pull it off. Keeper, Brendan Hammer, is another player who seems to be improving over time.

Prediction: 11th. Probably just outside the top half of the table, and that will be the end of the road for Jimmy Mitchel. He has improved the side, but just not fast enough.

Star Player: Pepe Edgar | Rising Star: Anna Meyreani

Club Information: The Dale have been ever-present fixture in the Schottic second tier for nearly twenty years, turning the ability to miss out on promotion into something of an art form. They have been one of the top teams in that division for a number of years though, and their supporters will finally get to see if their heroes can cut it in the SPL. It's hard to tell where the Grant Nean stops and the club begins, such is the manager's influence on the side. When you imploy a boss like Nean you are buying an ethos as much as anything else, and all the players he brings in a carefully vetted to fit in with his system. Nean's quick passing, high temp football is now synonymous with the club.

Current Squad: The Dale attack literally took teams apart last season in the First Division, and on their day were unplayable. How that translates to the SPL is going to be very interesting. We know Grant Nean is a manager who doesn't like to change his stripes; and given that his two summer signings are players with whom he is very familiar, his plan-B is probably just to crank plan-A up a notch. Robbie McSoul left the club for Port Patrick two years ago, but after a disaster trying to play under Des Pleent's system, has returned for a fraction of the price. Having spent two years on loan at the club, Handon United's Sunrisian born striker, Mirka Shitakuari, finally makes the move permanent in a club record $1M deal. Tricky striker, Benkè Oulonagawi, partners Shitakuari up front with teenager Cha Won Kae playing just off their shoulders. Ian MacLauren, and Kat Fell join McSuol in a very fluid midfield three, and are all of a similar mould - tiki taka players - who could pass the ball around all day. The defenders like to press high up the park, and look to play things out from the back, with James Banker, at centre-back, every bit as accomplished with the ball at his feet.

Prediction: 15th. Ouch, where to put them..? They'll end up well clear of the relegation zone, largely because they will pass the likes of Snubbeak and West Coast Warriors off the park. The real fun part will be in seeing how they get on against the top four sides, who are likely to have the players to counter their system.

Star player: Mirka Shitakuari | Rising Star: Robbie McSuol

Club Information: Mucusia were set up in an exercise in fan cooperative ownership twenty five years ago. In that short time the Port James based side have risen up through the footballing pyramid to the SPL, with their 9th place finish last season their best so far. They are far from the wealthiest side in the league, but they are well managed, and a productive youth system has always been useful in topping up their ranks.

The Current Squad: The sale of Sarah Gwire freed up some finances, allowing the club to bring in Biance Eaststar from Golden Eagles, while Claudia Solwood will provide some much needed depth in defence. All the same it's a squad that could run into a spot of bother, especially if some of the newly promoted teams live up to their billing. Sarah Foucualt and Aimée Hétu are the team's star assets up front, and it's a partnership which has the potential to keep them up. Backed up by Eaststar and Daineri attacker, Ryuni, the Eusebians pack a punch in the forward areas. Tom Killincic alongside Mako Sekine provide the base, keeping the flack off of a patchwork back four. Left-back, David Mowat, has been capped for Schottia at youth level, and Diego has long been a solid custodian between the sticks.

Prediction: 18th. Despite a good last season, we seriously have to consider the fact that Mucusia could go down. It would be a shame given what they have come through to get here, but it's going to take a big effort to avoid being drawn into a relegation battle.

Star player: Aimée Hétu | Rising star: Tom Killincic

Club Information: The New Island's biggest club are hopefully not on the downward slope following what has been a steady climb up the standings in Schottic football. In Judy Scott's time at the club, she put an end to the constant cycle of promotion and relegation, which had dogged them for decades. For a while the Pebbles were knocking on the door of doing something very special, with back-to-back top half performances a few years ago. The club have slipped back though, unfortunately, and new manager, Ramonita Kendrick, had to work hard to hold of relegation last season. The fans will be hoping that this year will see them bounce back again.

The Current Squad: It's not the New Island of four years ago, but when you look down the line up, it's certainly not bad. The Four million they splashed on Serpentine captain, Aya Bernman, is definitely money well spent, and so long as the 27-year-old can stay injury free, it might give them an edge on the sides around them. Snatching Bob Ingleburn away from RDS:D half way through his development is a big risk for both parties, but there is no doubt the young wing-forward has the potential to develop into a top star. The little and large strike force of Ramone Scotta and Edna Gil worked quite well last season for the Pebbles, with Scotta in particular looking very effective. The Cosumarite thrives off quality deliveries, and to those ends Ingleburn and Bernman will both improve the side's chances. The highly experienced, Holly Addison brings a wiliness to the team playing alongside rising star Herlinda Sterling. In the likes of Jano Jäger, Fortune Adeleke, and Erik Cunningham, New Island have a strong and resilient defence, with Lenore Drummond providing a safe pair of hands at the back.

Prediction: 13th. Steadying the ship is important this season. The club have seen a lot of change, and staying up is number one priority - going down would be a disaster.

Star player: Holly Addison | Rising star: Bob Ingleburn

Club Information: Central Stars are a club who have been slowly growing in stature over the last seventy years, meandering their way up the Schottic football pyramid towards what seemed like it would always be their eventual end point. They have been a mid-table, second tier side for much of the last decade, where they have seen their averages attendances nearly double, as they slowly established themselves as Lammerton's second biggest team. They are a strong side, with an infrastructure behind them, and there is every chance they could become a permanent fixture in the SPL.

Current Squad: Central Stars will have be quietly confident about staying up, following the three million signing of the Warriors Kirisakian striker, Miki. The 26-year-old is joined by one time rising star of the Schottia set-up, Mark Deleuze, who returns to the country for the first time in twelve years following spells with San Jose Sharpedoes and Falkner United. Targetwoman, Miki, will join an already solid front line, slotting in between forwards Andy Fischer and Josiha Hutton. In the midfield, Deleuze will be the man they look to for some quality, alongside their tireless duo of Fern MacEanraig and Rosalind Archibald. A big player at the back for the Stars is giant centre-half Levi Okonjo, who will be hoping a good season here can help thrust him into Lionel Mah's Schottia plans.

Prediction: 16th. They will stay up, but we should only really expect baby steps at this stage. Miki's ability to get amongst the goals will be crucial.

Star Player: Miki Kurugaya | Rising Star: Andy Fischer

Club Information: The Blues have always been the poorer relation in New Belfast, constantly playing second fiddle to their bigger neighbours, the Warriors. Without the success to draw in the next generation of budding fans, the club have always relied on a core of support, mostly from the outlying towns and villages to the north of the city. The club tasted an unexpected relegation six years ago, but they seem to have come back stronger, amassing a decent amount of points, and a Series-B CC win in their first two seasons back.

Current Squad: It's going to be hard for New Belfast Blues to build on a season which saw them pick up 56 points, but you can bet this young management team will give it their best shot. That three-person front line of Schnarnberg, Temples, and Nesbo proved very effective, with a big targetman to hold up play, and two busy wingers getting in behind the back line and doing some serious damage. Alasdair Nesbso in particular was a real standout competitor, and has reportedly caught the eye of the national team manager. The Blues have a good unit in the midfield too: Charlotte Ünterhausen looks like a chip off the old family block, while Johnny Birch and Tom Sanchez are also capable of playing their part. If NBB struggle anywhere it will be at the back, and rising star Christine Philippousis to one side, they are little bit light in this department.

Prediction: 17th. We are looking at a very strong SPL field this season, and the Blues will be more than happy with just staying up. If they get off to a flyer then there is nothing to stop them squeaking into the top half, but the bottom five looks more likely.

Star player Charlotte Ünterhausen | Rising star: Nikki Temples

Club Information: Kirk Preston were a small club, with a dwindling support, slowly dying out until six years ago. Salvation came in the form of a fan group takeover, which seemed to inject some much-needed cash into the system. Now the small stadium is bouncing every week, and the Holy Men suddenly have a set of players capable of challenging at the top of the league. Ross Killanen's brand of football is fast and physical, and the team are set up not to be bullied around. Auldgate Road has long been a stadium you'd be lucky to come away from without picking up a few injuries, these days you'd be lucky to pick up any points though.

Current Squad: Eoin Killanen, a player some would argue is the best to ever pull on a Schottia top - it's the big talking point this transfer window. While there's no doubt he is three seasons past prime, he still has more than enough skill and experience to improve the side managed by his father Ross. Killanen joins a side, which already arguably has the best strike force outside of the top-four. Just how long they can keep a hold of a player like Oskar Holst is hard to say, but in the meantime his partnership with Leopoldo Ramirez is a joy to watch. Anchoring the midfield is classic destroyer, Oliver Helling. In the wide areas, Schottia U21 cap Afton Prichard and fans favourite Matilda Wiess provide pace and directness, as well as the kind crosses the front two feed off. At the back, the Holy Men, are big, strong, and very reliable, with Brenecian, Russ Linvoy, the pick of a decent bunch.

Prediction: 9th. Ninth, but there is every chance we could be about to see something special from the Holy Men. Okay, okay, I know we said the same last season, however, player for player, they are as good as any of the Globe Cup challengers.

Star Player: Eoin Killanen | Rising Star: Oskar Holst

Club Information: The Rock are one of the clubs critics of the 20 team SPL format often cite when making the case for an eighteen or even sixteen team league. They have enough about them to gain promotion, but totally lack the resources to plough on and make any impact in the top-tier whatsoever. They are one of the three clubs who currently play in the small city of South Berwick, and take their name from large, uninhabited, gull-poop encrusted rock, which lies just off the coast. Probably not the most flattering comparison, but the Rock is a big part of South Berwick culture.

It's looks a sorry state of affairs for Snubbeck, who are set for what could be a very difficult season ahead. After busting a gut to stay up last season, their only two players of any real quality have jumped ship, leaving them in serious trouble. William Snedden is going to have a lot to do up front, and the journeyman striker is one of the last few players they have worth a mention. Gary Girren takes over the armband in the centre, and the midfielder defiantly have the brawn if not the brains to make it in this league. Young wingers, Iona Stone, and Cassandra Rowell provide a fair amount of pace but little direction, while centre-half, Ross Wilson, will be an important last line of defence.

Prediction: 20th. It's impossible to see this team staying up in all honesty. They might - through virtue of their ability to grind out draws at home - finish above West Coast, but 19th is the limit.

Star Player: Ross Wilson | Rising Star: Cassandra Rowell

Club Information: The Archers are a small club who have been quickly gaining support in Port James, following their switch from the WSL four seasons ago. They were one of three former women's sides to be granted SFL membership following the switch to mixed football, and have made slow progress ever since. West Coast Warriors have always played attractive football, and whereas a more robust style might have helped them grind out more results, their free-flowing play has certainly earned them more of a following.

Current Squad: West Coast have Bara Waves failed attempt at staying up to use as something of a blueprint, as they attempt to succeed where their former WSL rivals did not. To those ends, Ruby Gillinger has had to use what little money she has very wisely. Eleni Melas' return to the club will be music to the fans' ears, after the Mucusia girl previously excelled on loan two years ago. The Archers always looked limp without her direct running. Furthermore, the signing of veteran former Kingsgrove captain, Kezia O'Byrne, will hopefully imbue them this some top-level experience. If the club are going to stay up this season, you'd imagine it will be down to the four girls the attack. Hassenthaler, MacCosgraigh, and Bear are all energetic runners, who will provide a fair amount of support to Melas in attack. O'Byrne will slot in alongside captain, Antonia Aktar, who is built like a shithouse door, and responsible of keeping the opposition quiet. Defence is where you really start to worry about West Coast, and should they stay up, then improving here is going to be a priority. Keeper, Nora Imrie, has caps at U21 level, but this is going to be a big step up for her.

Prediction: 19th. It's just going to come down to recourses, and West Coast Warriors don't have enough. At some point down the line they are going be back here, much more organised, and with some money in the bank - but right now survival looks beyond them.

Star Player: Livia Hassenthaler | Rising Star: Eleni Melas

-Schottic First Division-

In an extremely tight field, Granton Vale will fancy their chances of making it back to the SPL on the second time of asking. The Greater Handon side have crucially kept a hold of players such as Lucy Khoroushi and Kurt Hierholzer, and even more importantly, have a very well settled squad of players. Attacking midfielder Robert Craig also looks like he is emerging as a decent young player, and at nineteen could be ready to make a splash. Hollin have brought in former Soessch boss Jurgen Peters who has a bit of rebuilding job on his hands after the Belker Boys' relegation last season. That said, with the addition of Chromatik keeper Avril Augustin, and talented Quebecois forward Byeon Jeong-Soon, there is every chance they could be up there in the hunt of the automatic promotion spots. Bara Waves are another side who have rung in the managerial changes, with former New Belfast Warriors and Fadrön Flight midfielder, Jon Fotan, taking the helm. The ex Schottia has brought in former international teammate, Caitlin L'Attue, who could be the big signing Bara have been looking for.

Further down the order; Hillstreet will be another side looking for a quick SPL return, with Tim Maitfield now establishing his own set of players. And the likes of Handon North, Jena, Döllar, and Lammerton City will also feel they have a chance of sneaking into the play-offs come the end of the season.

by **Schottia** » Thu Mar 08, 2018 5:34 am

Matchday One - Six & UICA Qualifiers

Series B Champions' Cup -- First Prelim Round
(COS) Helfin Fief 1–1 Central Stars

The jury is still out following our first meaningful look at newly promoted Central Stars. The Lammerton side took on Cosumar's Helfin Fief in the first round of the Series B qualifiers, and after coming away with a 1-1 draw, they will be optimistic about their chances of progression. The crucial equaliser came on 79 minutes, as Josiha Hutton turned in a cross-field pass from Fern MacEanraig.

Series B Champions' Cup -- First Prelim Round
Central Stars 2-2 a Helfin Fief (COS)

Despite finding the net twice, Central Stars Series B run ended before it really got going. The Lammerton side got off to a strong start, with Andy Fischer netting after just three minutes. It wasn't enough, however, as a strong second half charge from the visitors ensured that they went out on away goals.

Globe Cup -- First Prelim Round
(OME) FC Londonderry 0–0 Kings Park

A very disappointing result for Raven Cullen in Omerica, means that Kings Park's Globe Cup campaign will be on a knife edge as they play host to FC Londonderry in a week's time. Anna Lombardi and Tsumugi Narita both made their debuts, however the Royals failed to find the back on the net in this match.

Globe Cup -- First Prelim Round
Kings Park 0-1 FC Londonderry (OME)

And it was curtains for Kings Park. A bitterly disappointing early exit from UICA competition for a second year running. The 1-0 defeat to FC Londonderry proves, perhaps, that for Schottia's smaller sides, it's still incredibly hard to crack international domestic football.

Champions' Cup -- Third Prelim Round
(VIL) Jungle Strike FC 0–1 Port Sebastian

This was Port Sebastian’s first real crack at the Champions' Cup in a while, after what has been three successful Globe Cup qualifying campaigns. All eyes were on nine million man, Avi Renning, as they headed to Vilita to take on Jungle Strike FC. The Cenian had a good first showing in white and sky blue, but it was Roisin Carroll who scored the crucial goal, her shot deflecting in at the keeper's near post, twenty minutes from time.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Third Prelim Round
(VIL) Terrarokka Spirit 0–1 West Coast Warriors

There was further good news for Schottic clubs in Viltia, a West Coast Warriors won by the same margin over Terrarokka Spirit, in the Series B. Eleni Melas scored the only goal on her competitive return to the club, firing home a Livia Hassenthaler cross from close range.

Champions' Cup -- Third Prelim Round
Port Sebastian 2-1 Jungle Strike FC (VIL)

Port Sebastian finished the job they started in Vilita, even though they were made to work for it as they played host to Jungle Strike FC. Porty went behind in this match almost from the kick off, and that left them looking seriously deflated. The second half saw an improved attitude however, and Keeva Crowe's introduction proved pivotal, as the teenage striker scored one and set up another to send her side though. First of all the young attacker, slipped the ball through to Heron Kendall for the equaliser, before darting onto the end of an Avi Renning through ball to put the game beyond the visitors.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Third Prelim Round
West Coast Warriors 2-1 Terrarokka Spirit (VIL)

West Coast Warriors also finished the job they started as two second half goals from Eleni Melas and Gabi Bear saw them safely through in the Series B.

Champions' Cup -- Play-Off Round
Handon United 2–0 Mâ Âlâmëómë (FFD)
Port Sebastian 4–1 Olympic Nassau Bay (NGD)

It was the all-important play-off round of the Champions's Cup, and as fixtures go, it's hard to see how the draw could have been any worse for Handon United. Mâ Âlâmëómë knocked Jane Gullie's side out at the quarterfinal stage last year, and to face the Farves this early on was going to be a big challenge. Line Stenberg and Marc-André Onasi made their competitive debuts for United, with Jayden Fox handed a starting role at left-back following the completion of his loan deal in Cosumar. Despite the apprehensions some of the fans may have had, Handon United approached the game very well, and took the lead after only ten minutes, when Daniel Dostalok got on the end of a Louis Hordern cross. In what was a strong second half performance, the home side saw the game out, as Regatta Aspenwood connected with a Rachel Hellion freekick for a 2-0 win. It the other match with a Schottic interest, United's city rivals, Port Sebastian, all but guaranteed their passage to the next round with a 4-1 hammering of Olympic Nassau Bay. It was a chance for Avi Renning to show TL fans what they were missing, and the Cenian made a big impact on the match, setting up two of the goals. Heron Kendall was the star of the show, however, and the Nepharim went away with the match ball, as her second half hatrick put the game beyond the Gelderlish side.

Globe Cup -- Play-Off Round
(PCR) Newport Sirens 0–1 Lammerton

The Lammerton curse has been a constant source of both frustration and ridicule for the Hornets throughout the UICA era. To have never made the group stage of UICA competition in ten attempts is an incredible monkey the club would love to get off their back. A trip to Port Christopher in the heat of the summer is not something Johnny Smith and his players would have looked forward to. However, despite a gutsy performance from the Sirens, Ezequiel Marchiondo was able to work the ball through to Kaytlyne Victoriane, who fired home a precious away goal for the visitors.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Play-Off Round
(TAE) 3.14 0–1 West Holbrookdale
West Coast Warriors 3–0 Fort Roy SC (AVN)

West Holbrookdale will have went home very happy with their 1-0 win over 3.14 in Taeshan. The Rushmori side struggled to get to grips with the dale, who passed the ball around well, and never really gave their opponents a look in. Mirka Shitakuari scored the only goal of the game from the penalty spot, after Kat Fell was brought down just before half time. West Coast Warriors had an equally easy time, as they looked to get Series B qualification sewn up before the second leg. The pace of MacCosgraigh and Hassenthaler going forward made things very difficult for Fort Roy throughout the match, Kezia O'Byrne and MacCosgraigh (2) gave them a comfortable lead to take to Avon the following week.

SPL
Mucusia 1–3 Cornellians
Lammerton 1–0 West Holbrookdale
Port Patrick United 1–2 Kirk Preston United
FC Soessch 1–0 New Island
Snubbeak Rock 0–4 Handon United
La Gorlions 1–2 New Belfast Warriors
West Coast Warriors 1–2 Central Stars
Port Sebastian 1–0 Port James Athletic
Marionville 1–1 Kings Park
Dundee 2–0 New Belfast Blues

Reigning Champions, Cornellians, got us off and running in the twelve o'clock kick off, as they took on Mucusia at a sell-out Pllier Ground. All eyes would have been on Catherine Gryphon who made her debut in defensive midfield, following a big money move from Starling. The Brenecian had a pretty quiet afternoon, and strode through the match. The quality the Eagles possess in the form of Jade Irwin and Isla Sibučić, was just too much to deal with for Mucusia, who look a bit lost without Sarah Gwire. Sibučić danced through the defence all too easily to tuck away the first, before Kathryn Kvanderwyk and Mershawn Mercury added two more in the second half to give Reinhard Shale's side a straightforward start to the season. Kvanderwyk connected beautifully with a pinpoint Irwin cross to guide the ball past Diego, and Echani international, Mercury, burst free of David Moffat before finishing with a powerful strike in his first action after coming on as a substitute.

Handon United also made a strong statement in their opening match, putting four past a sorry looking Sunbbeak Rock. United were without Daniel Dostalok, who wasn't risked ahead of their Champions' Cup tie with Mâ Âlâmëómë, meaning there was a start for 19-year-old Striker Solomon Johnson. The young attacker was more than enough to help his side deal with a lacklustre Snubbeak, and prodded home a Marc-André Onasi cross for the opener. The Cenian winger will have been under pressure to impress, following a fifteen million move from the Pirates, but he looked on good form, scoring two himself, one either side of half time. Substitute Magdalen Demetrius completed the rout with ten minutes left on the clock, slamming in a Reggata Aspenwood ball at the back post.

Perhaps the most interesting fixture this week was the meeting of Kirk Preston and Port Patrick; two sides hotly tipped to be in the mix for the Globe Cup spots this season. Eoin Killanen made his first SPL start in sixteen years, after joining up with his father Ross at the Holy Men. On the other side of the pitch, the Breaker's fans will have been fascinated to see how their twelve million girl Chimera Moxham performs after joining up from Treason in the summer. Despite all the hype, it was another young player who stole the show, with Farf striker Oskar Holst supplying two sublime finishes to give the visitors a crucial early win on the road.

Elsewhere: Lammerton proved that it's not the amount of possession you have, it's what you do with it that counts, as a Raquel Naeher's goal gave them a 1-0 win over West Holbrookdale. Allie Vacek scored on her debut, as FC Soessch edged a narrow win over New Island. And New Belfast Warriors will probably be quite happy with their hard fought 2-1 win away to La Gorlions.

Champions' Cup -- Play-Off Round
(FFD) Mâ Âlâmëómë 0-3 Handon United
(NGD) Olympic Nassau Bay 3-2 Port Sebastian

There was so much riding on these matches, for both Port Sebastian and Handon United, with the money spinning Champions' Cup just ninety minutes away. United had the tougher fixture, but they were outstanding once again, as they took on last years runners-up, Mâ Âlâmëómë. Marc-André Onasi followed up from his double at the weekend with the opener, and there were second half goals from Danile Dostalok and Natalie Adams as United took the game by the scruff of the neck. Man of the match, however, was one Jayden Fox, who looks much more like the left-back United thought they'd signed two years ago, after his loan spell last season. Porty had to ride out a real whirlwind from Olympic Nassau Bay, who netted three times as they looked to haul themselves back into the tie. Porty were well beaten in terms of play, but goals from Heron Kendall and Alexander Alan made progression impossible for the Gelderlish side.

Globe Cup -- Play-Off Round
Lammerton 3-0 Newport Sirens (PCR)

After a scrapping out in a 1-0 win on Port Christopher, Lammerton were on cruise control as they welcomed the Sirens back to the City Ground. Mars Alexandersson and Jasper Valaran got the game by the scruff of the neck early on, and never let go, as the Hornets notched up a 3-0 win.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Play-Off Round
West Holbrookdale 4-0 3.14 (TAE)
(AVN) Fort Roy SC 1-0 West Coast Warriors

West Holbrookdale will hope that their 4-0 win over 3.14 also sends a message to the SPL field, showing how dangerous they can be when it all clicks together. Robbie McSoul was man of the match as the side strode into the Series B group stage. West Coast Warriors went down 1-0 to Fort Roy in Avon, but they were never in any real danger, as their first leg win carried them comfortably through.

SPL
Cornellians 1–0 New Belfast Blues
Kings Park 1–2 Dundee
Port James Athletic 2–2 Marionville
Central Stars 0–1 Port Sebastian
New Belfast Warriors 1–0 West Coast Warriors
Handon United 4–2 La Gorlions
New Island 1–0 Snubbeak Rock
Kirk Preston United 1–0 FC Soessch
West Holbrookdale 1–2 Port Patrick United
Mucusia 0–1 Lammerton

Handon United most certainly haven't been shy in front of goal so far this season, and their front line were in devastating form once more, as they put four past La Gorlions in front of a packed Harbour Hill. United are like a steam train going down either wing right now, and the pace and precision of Regatta Aspenwood put the Lions under serious pressure. The visitors did mount a comeback in the second half, but a late flourish with goals from Hiroyo Nunez and Line Stenberg showed us all just how hard it's going to be to take any points off United this season.

Port Patrick United lived up to their preseason billing, showing some real grit to come back from 1-0 down, as they put newly promoted West Holbrookdale to the sword. Grant Nean would have been left frustrated, as his side threw away a commanding position, with goals from Whitney Kelly and Chase Zeigenhorn hitting them hard on the counter attack. Benkè Oulonagawi squandered a great chance to level for the home side late on, as he failed to connect with cross from 16-year-old Pasargan, Bendegúz Kádár

Pick of this weekend's matches was probably the contest between Port James and Marionville at the City Stadium. Athletic found themselves in front twice, as Jack Hobbs continued his scoring form with a well executed double. There is a lot expected of Marionville this season, and Jack Cordoba's side never gave up with Jessica Grey and Circe Rosenthal both netting on the breakaway.

In other matches: Port Sebastian recorded a second narrow win of the season, but were made to work hard for the three points as they took on Central Stars. Eoin Killanen scored a memorable first goal for Kirk Preston and they defeated Soessch 1-0 in Bergstadt. And a 93rd minute goal from Sett Horn helped Dundee past Kings Park in a fiery encounter.

Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round
Lammerton 2–1 AC Pomena (JUE)

It's that point in the season where Lammerton bums start squeaking. Just two matches away from breaking their UICA qualification curse, the club were in desperate need of some cool heads - something that in the past, have always been absent. Would it be AC Pomena of Juevencus who provided the inevitable banana skin this year? Based on the first leg, it's still very much up in the air. Lammerton started off well, with Ezequiel Marchiondo probing the Pomena defence, producing a couple of crosses, which the forwards should have done better with. The Hornets did get their noses in front however, with Raquel Naeher connecting with a Kaytlyne Victoriane cross to give her side the advantage. In the second half, Eslpeth Gendening capitalised on a moment of defensive hesitation to tuck away number two. Celebrations were short lived though, as a late Pomena away goal meant the tie hung in the balance as the clubs headed back to Juevencus.

SPL
Lammerton 4–2 Cornellians
Port Patrick United 2–0 Mucusia
FC Soessch 3–1 West Holbrookdale
Snubbeak Rock 1–2 Kirk Preston United
La Gorlions 3–1 New Island
West Coast Warriors 0–2 Handon United
Port Sebastian 3–3 New Belfast Warriors
Marionville 4–2 Central Stars
Dundee 3–0 Port James Athletic
New Belfast Blues 1–1 Kings Park

Lammerton had the best possible preparation for their crucial Globe Cup qualifier, with a result that will be a shock to many in Schottic football. The Hornets really took the game to reigning champions, Cornellians, in a great display of attacking football. Cornellians' new left-back Isidra Jeurissen was given a whirlwind introduction to Schottic football, as Kaytlyne Victoriane, and Ezequiel Marchiondo put the visitors under a lot of pressure down the right flank. Mars Alexandersson scored a free kick, and Elspeth Glendening headed in a Raquel Naeher corner as the Hornets opened up a comfortable lead. Isla Sibučić, and Emil Eklund both netted in the second half, as the Eagles looked to mount a comeback; however, two late goals from Victoriane and young striker, Graham Petrie, gave Lammerton a well-deserved win, as they maintained their perfect start to the season.

Marionville got their first win of the season this weekend, coming from two goals down to inflict a heavy defeat on newly promoted Central Stars. The Old Boys were left a shell-shocked by two early Kiki goals, as the towering Kirisakian netted twice from consecutive corner kicks to give her side a two-goal lead after only seven minutes. However annoyed Cordoba was with his players' defending at set pieces, he will have been equally impressed by the way they responded. The home side were level by half time thanks to goals from Suilven Roagart and Vojnomir Nikolic, and in the second half, Pasargan, Nikolic, turned provider as he picked out Jessica Grey to give Marionville a much deserved lead. Laura Carrow rounded things off, as her 82nd minute effort took a wicked deflection past the keeper.

Soessch were another team to record an impressive result, as the North Island side looked in full flow against the Dale. Groaré Sasca was at his imperious best, controlling the match from the pinnacle of the midfield three. New girl Allie Vacek scored one either side of half time as her pace and aggression continually caused Grant Nean's side problems. Melanie Ünterhausen wrapped up the three points; her 73rd minute goal capping a very good day at the office for manager Barry Gorman.

Elsewhere: Teenager, Chimera Moxham, got her first goal for Port Patrick, as her side defeated Mucusia 2-0. Eoin Killanen and Matilda Weiss were on target for Kirk Preston in a 2-1 win over Snubbeak. And a late goal from Avila Wardenier secured a share of the points for the Warriors as they paid a visit to Port Sebastian.

Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round
(JUE) AC Pomena 1-2 Lammerton

They've finally done it. Lammerton are through to the group stages of the Globe Cup, after a litany of qualification disasters over the years. A 2-1 win over AC Pomena in Juevencus was enough to ensure that Jonny Smiths players finally got a chance to cut their teeth in UICA competition. An early goal from Elspeth Glendening put shredded nerves to rest, after the Schottia international was expertly threaded through by Jasper Valranan. Pomena equalised shortly after the restart, but Valaran curled a shot in from the edge of the area with half an hour left to send the travelling support home euphoric.

SPL
Cornellians 3–3 Kings Park
Port James Athletic 4–0 New Belfast Blues
Central Stars 1–0 Dundee
New Belfast Warriors 3–2 Marionville
Handon United 2–1 Port Sebastian
New Island 2–0 West Coast Warriors
Kirk Preston United 2–0 La Gorlions
West Holbrookdale 2–0 Snubbeak Rock
Mucusia 1–2 FC Soessch
Lammerton 3–1 Port Patrick United

An early Handon Derby injected some life into an otherwise dull, grey Saturday afternoon, as United and Porty met for the first time this season. Port Sebastian have made a strong start to the campaign, but home side, Handon United, have arguably been on irresistible form so far. The challenge for the visitors was trying to put the breaks on the United attack, and that was something they catastrophically failed to do on 29 minutes, as Marc-André Onasi opened the scoring. The Christopheran player of the year was sent racing through by a well-weighted Natalie Adams pass, showing Paul Doig a clean set of heels before neatly finishing into the bottom corner. United had the upper hand throughout the first half, and should have went two up when a Jayden Fox cross-come-shot almost crept under MG Grumbla's cross bar. Porty pulled level, however, moments into the second half, when a quick exchange between Colin Loweson and Avi Renning succeeded in setting Roisin Carroll free down the left. The winger whipped the ball across the face of goal, allowing Keeve Crowe to connect for her third goal of the season. A draw would have been unfair on United though, and they claimed the crucial winning goal fifteen minutes from time, after Line Stenberg had a shot blocked by Gumbla, only to see it fall into the path of Regatta Aspenwood who duly applied the finish.

Port James Athletic haven't had a great start to the season, but they showed us there might still be some sparks of life, with a thumping 4-0 win over New Belfast Blues. Jimmy Mitchel might be on borrowed time, but this comprehensive win will provide some much needed breathing space. Jack Hobbs has been one of the big success stories of Mitchel's time in charge, and the former Granton Vale man was on target again today in an impressive performance. There was also a first SPL goal for Mark Annand, but he may have to go a bit further to fully justify his three million price tag.

There was also a very important result for First Division champions West Holbrookdale, as they got their first points on the board following an extremely challenging start to the season. With seventy percent possession against a woeful Snubbeak, the Dale succeeded in passing the ball into the net twice, keeping a clean sheet in the process. Robbie McSoul's delightful back-heel for Mirka Shitakuari allowed the striker to open the scoring after seventeen minutes, before Cha Won Kae capped a mazy run with a neat finish on the half hour mark.

In other results: Lammerton look unstoppable right now, with a mighty 3-1 win over on form Port Patrick. Cornellians stumbled to a draw at home to Kings Park despite a Sibučić hattrick. And Central Stars also got their first win of the season; Andy Fischer scoring the only goal in their victory over Dundee.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month One

Player: Louis Hordern -- Handon United
Built like a tank, ploughs up and down the right flank like a steam train - Louis Hordern looks every bit the real deal for Handon United this season. The Schottia right back, lets nothing slip by him, and seems to be getting better with every game right now.

Young Player: Oskar Holst -- Kirk Preston United
Ross Killanen is going to have his hands full in warding off interest in his star striker. The Farfadillis international has got off to a very good start in his second full season with the Holy Men.

Manager: Johnny Smith -- Lammerton
Perfect start, and finally smashing the Lammerton curse - Johnny Smith must feel like he could walk on water right now. It's not just results, the former Dundee keeper has also got the Hornets playing some fantastic football right now.

SPL
Port Patrick United 0–1 Cornellians
FC Soessch 1–2 Lammerton
Snubbeak Rock 2–4 Mucusia
La Gorlions 2–3 West Holbrookdale
West Coast Warriors 0–0 Kirk Preston United
Port Sebastian 3–1 New Island
Marionville 1–2 Handon United
Dundee 2–1 New Belfast Warriors
New Belfast Blues 1–1 Central Stars
Kings Park 4–2 Port James Athletic

Lammerton and United remain the last two sides with their 100% record intact as both recorded very impressive 2-1 wins on the road. Lammerton made the trip to Soessch for what promised to be a real classic of a match. It was, however, the Hornets who prevailed yet again, as they came from a goal down to add the North Island side to their list of impressive victories so far. Barry Gorman must have thought his side were on course for a solid victory, after Groaré Sasca picked out David Hughes lurking in the box with twenty-four minutes on the clock. Lammerton went up through the gears in the second half, and after Mars Alexandersson netted at the end of surging run to pull the side level, Kaytlyne Victoriane slid onto the end of a Luke Svensson cross to deliver the winner.

Handon United faced a trip to another of the league's more considerable sides, as they took on Globe Cup hopefuls, Marionville. On this occasion it was the visitors who took the lead, as Regatta Aspenwood ghosted past Pablo Altamirano, before finishing neatly into the far corner. Daniel Dostalok had seemingly put United on easy street, as his got his head on a Nagisa Habane cross just before half time, but the home side had other plans. A powerful run forward from Dawn Morham gave Circe Rosenthal the time she needed to release Jessica Grey as she pulled a goal back, but the Old Boys simply ran out of time.

It's not been the easiest of starts to the season for the Royals, but this week they looked more like their old selves, as they taught Athletic sore lesson in defending. Port James really should have done more to counter Kings Park's wide forwards, because once Tiferet Ashbrown and Billy McCorralie were in behind the midfield, the visitors' back three were ill-equipped to deal them.

Elsewhere: Port Sebastian got over their derby hangover with 3-1 win over a New Island side that never really got out the blocks. A late header from Emil Eklund ensured Cornellians completed a smash and grab over an unfortunate Port Patrick. And West Holbrookdale made it who wins from two, as Cha Won Kae scored a double in a man of the match performance.

SPL
Cornellians 2–0 Port James Athletic
Central Stars 3–3 Kings Park
New Belfast Warriors 5–3 New Belfast Blues
Handon United 0–0 Dundee
New Island 0–3 Marionville
Kirk Preston United 4–3 Port Sebastian
West Holbrookdale 2–1 West Coast Warriors
Mucusia 1–0 La Gorlions
Lammerton 1–0 Snubbeak Rock
Port Patrick United 2–0 FC Soessch

The New Belfast Derby was an absolute cracker this week, with the lead changing hands more than once in an eight-goal thriller. Things just haven't clicked into place the Blues this season, and throwing away a 3-2 lead with only fifteen minutes to go will have been a bitter blow for them. After coming back from being two goals down at half time, Lasse Schnarnberg must have thought he'd done enough to take something from the game, as he powered home a Alasdair Nesbo cross. In a late flourish, however, Somuele der Pros, Iana Synder , and Avila Wardenier all scored to earn the Warriors all three points against their little cousins.

Marionville climbed up to eleventh after their shaky start to the season, as they demolished New Island at the Rock Ground. Suilven Roagart has been thrown in at the deep end this season, following Jack Avelione's return to Bastion, and the teenager put in some real graft up front. Circe Rosenthal was also outstanding in the second half, scoring once again, as well as slipping the ball through to Andy Bell for the side's third goal.

The surprise result of the weekend, however, was at Auldgate Road, where Kirk Preston beat Port Sebastian 4-3. It was the fact that the Holy Men won that was the shock, it was rather the fact that the thoroughly outplayed Porty in a match they deserved to win. Eoin Killanen continued to impress in the centre of midfield, while Matilta Weiss, Oskar Holst, and Leopoldo Ramirez all threatened going forward.

In other matches: Jade Irwin curled home a goal of the season contender in Cornellians' 2-0 win over Port James Athletic. Whitney Kelly was the stand out performer in Port Patrick's victory against FC Soessch. And Handon United were left deeply frustrated as Dundee held them to a 0-0 draw.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Lammerton               6    6   0   0    12    4   +8    18
 2 Handon United           6    5   1   0    14    4  +10    16
 3 Kirk Preston United     6    5   1   0    11    5   +6    16
 4 Dundee                  6    4   1   1     9    3   +6    13
 5 New Belfast Warriors    6    4   1   1    15   11   +4    13
 6 Cornellians             6    4   1   1    12    8   +4    13
 7 Port Sebastian          6    3   1   2    12   10   +2    10
 8 Port Patrick United     6    3   0   3     8    7   +1     9
 9 West Holbrookdale       6    3   0   3     9    9    0     9
10 FC Soessch              6    3   0   3     7    7    0     9
11 Marionville             6    2   2   2    13   10   +3     8
12 Central Stars           6    2   2   2     9   10   −1     8
13 Kings Park              6    1   4   1    13   12   +1     7
14 Mucusia                 6    2   0   4     7   10   −3     6
15 New Island              6    2   0   4     5   10   −5     6
16 Port James Athletic     6    1   1   4     8   12   −4     4
17 La Gorlions             6    1   0   5     8   13   −5     3
18 New Belfast Blues       6    0   2   4     5   14   −9     2
19 West Coast Warriors     6    0   1   5     2    9   −7     1
20 Snubbeak Rock           6    0   0   6     3   14  −11     0

by **Schottia** » Fri Mar 09, 2018 11:24 am

Matchday Seven - Twelve & UICA Group Phase

SPL
FC Soessch 0–2 Cornellians
Snubbeak Rock 0–1 Port Patrick United
La Gorlions 2–5 Lammerton
West Coast Warriors 1–2 Mucusia
Port Sebastian 3–1 West Holbrookdale
Marionville 0–2 Kirk Preston United
Dundee 0–1 New Island
New Belfast Blues 1–2 Handon United
Kings Park 1–2 New Belfast Warriors
Port James Athletic 4–0 Central Stars

Not many sides come to Danu Parc and put five goals past the hosts; therefore Lammerton's 5-2 win over La Gorlions will go down as palpable proof that momentum is shifting in Johnny Smith's favour. The Hornets look pacy, dynamic, and utterly ruthless in front of goal, with the entire team standing up to be counted. Victoriane and Naeher both got on the scoresheet, and the two wide girls harried and probed the Lions defence form the get go. It was to Jasper Valaran in the centre that much of the credit must go, however, as the 26-year-old calmly and collectedly controlled the game from the deep-sat playmaker position.

Marionville were left wondering what hit them, as Kirk Preston soundly beat the much-fancied side in this weekend's afternoon fixture. Normally so assured at the back, the Old Boys struggled to get to grips with the Kirk Preston attack. Circe Rosenthal found the going tough against midfield powerhouse, Oliver Helling, and failed to make much of an impact. It was Eoin Killanen who produced the magic though, drilling home a freekick for the opener, and beautifully picking out Leopoldo Ramirez for the side's second.

As Cornellians look to catch back up on the league leaders, they faced a difficult away day in Soessch. The Eagles played very well in spite of the challenge, with Catherine Gryphon and Johannas Ünterhausen excelling in crowding out the Soessch attack. Isla Sibučić expertly threaded Kathryn Kvanderwyk through at the end of darting run into the box, and John Fyfe put the result beyond doubt with a header late in stoppage time.

Elsewhere: Heron Kendall tucked away a double, as Port Sebastian bossed West Holbrookdale out of their match at Dyerton. Handon United needed a late goal from Solomon Johnson to rescue all three points against New Belfast Blues. And a hattrick from young Anna Meyreani helped Athletic to a 4-0 win over Central Stars.

SPL
Cornellians 3–1 Central Stars
New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Port James Athletic
Handon United 0–1 Kings Park
New Island 3–0 New Belfast Blues
Kirk Preston United 2–2 Dundee
West Holbrookdale 2–2 Marionville
Mucusia 0–1 Port Sebastian
Lammerton 3–2 West Coast Warriors
Port Patrick United 3–3 La Gorlions
FC Soessch 1–0 Snubbeak Rock

They've been scraping around for points so far this season, but this was perhaps the week where we saw things click into place for New Island. You could see how much it meant to Ramonita Kendrick on the touchline, as the Chromatik clearly knew how crucial this win over their relegation rivals might be come the end of the season. Aya Bernman might have lost some of her pace following her injury ridden time in Nephara, but the former United starlet still has all of her invention. The 27-year-old wrapped up an excellent performance, skipping two tackles before squaring the ball for Ramone Scotta to score the side's third.

Cornellians continued to build up a head of steam, as they recorded a very comfortable win over Central Stars. The Lammerton side set up trying to make things difficult for the seven times champions, but after Emil Ekund broke the deadlock with a wicked strike from the edge of the box, there was only one way traffic. Mershawn Mercury added a second from a tight angle, after a clever lay-off from Johannas Ünterhausen, and Isla Sibučić dinked home a chip-shot to give the side an unassailable lead.

Dundee managed to put the breaks on the runaway train that has been Kirk Preston this season, twice coming from behind to secure a share of the points. Eoin Killanen played in Matilda Weiss who swept home the opener from the right side of the box, before Vera Cummings levelled with a well-hit strike just on the stroke of half time. After the restart Oskar Hoslt succeeded in restoring their lead, but Sett Horn's 74th minute header ensured the match finished all square.

Elsewhere: Marionville left it late as they earned a draw with West Holbrookdale. Handon United lost ground on Lammerton as a Dejan Corvell goal saw them go down 1-0 to Kings Park. And Kirsten Gemmill claimed La Gorlions an unlikely draw away to Port Patrick.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Two

Player: Isla Sibučić -- Cornellians
Sibučić has been setting Lochend Stadium alight once again this month, as the incredible development curve she is no shows no signs of levelling off. Her chip shot goal against Central Stars will likely be one for the internet slide-reels.

Young Player: Chimera Moxham -- Port Patrick United
Beginning to now justify her massive price tag, Moxham has helped the Breakers get off to a much better start than they did last season. The Nepharim has been putting in some very mature performances.

Manager: Judy Scott -- New Belfast Warriors
The Warriors have had a very good month, including a win in the New Belfast Derby. Scott seems to have got them playing better, flowing football, with a marked upturn in the performances on the park.

Champions' Cup -- Group Phase
Handon United 0-0 CA Paulinthal (PAS)
(COS) Crawford City 2-1 Cornellians
Port Sebastian 0-2 Cazadores Cathair (AUD)

It was a disappointing week for Schottia's teams in the Champions' Cup, as none of their three sides managed to shower themselves in glory on the opening match day. Handon United were held to a 0-0 draw at home to Pasarga's CAP, with Regatta Aspenwood passing up their best chance of the match just before the break. Cornellians went down 2-1 in Cosumar in a battle of the former Nephara bosses. And Port Sebastian found the going tough on their debut in the competition, Cazadores Cathair beating them convincingly in Handon.

Globe Cup -- Group Phase
(COS) OAS Royal FC 1-0 Lammerton
Marionville 3-0 Mliona-Lpaka (TUR)

There was a bit of a mixed bag in the Globe Cup, with Lammerton's long awaited first outing in UICA football ending in defeat to Cosumarite side OAS Royal. Marionville, on the other hand, sprung a shock 3-0 win on Mliona-Lpaka. Goals from Jess Grey (2) and Circe Rosethal helped them inflict a stunning defeat on the Turorian side.

Series B -- Group Phase
(ETM) Agri Foodbowl 1-1 West Coast Warriors
West Holbrookdale 3-0 Southern Hampton City (ETN)

West Coast Warriors looked a little off the pace in Electrum, but managed to do enough to earn a 1-1 draw with Agri Foodbowl. West Holbrookdale had more luck though, with a smashing performance at home to Southern Hampton City resulting in a 3-0 win.

SPL
Snubbeak Rock 2–2 Cornellians
La Gorlions 0–2 FC Soessch
West Coast Warriors 0–1 Port Patrick United
Port Sebastian 5–2 Lammerton
Marionville 5–0 Mucusia
Dundee 1–0 West Holbrookdale
New Belfast Blues 0–1 Kirk Preston United
Kings Park 1–2 New Island
Port James Athletic 2–2 Handon United
Central Stars 6–2 New Belfast Warriors

Going by what we've seen of both sides this season, I doubt anyone would have expected Port Sebastian to record such a resounding win over highflying Lammerton. Alexander Alan was instrumental in the victory; the right-winger scoring two of Porty's goals as he begins to really stake a claim for a starting role in the national team. In the battle of the Cenian playmakers, Avi Renning also left with the bragging rights, as the teenager really outpaced his more experienced countryman, Jasper Valaran. It was up front, however, where Port Sebastian made their advantage show, with both Heron Kendall and Keeva Crowe getting on the scoresheet as their fledgling strike partnership continues to blossom.

Miki Kurugaya returned to haunt New Belfast Warriors in a big way this week, as the striker whom the deemed surplus to requirements scored a hattrick in Central Stars' phenomenal win. The Warriors were actually in very good form coming into this game, so the result will come as a surprise. The Stars looked far hungrier for the points though, with Mark Deleuze and Fern MacEanraig really getting a grip of the game in the midfield.

In a weekend of high scoring fixtures, Marionville weren't shy of getting in on the act, following on from their incredible win the Globe Cup. The Old Boys look very assured going forward, and are capable of getting goals from every area of the park. Mucusia really struggled to even get a foothold in the match, and with a commanding display form Alexander Pearce and Donald Nesbit at the back, there were only slim pickings for the Eusebians going forward.

In other matches: Chimera Moxham curled in a real sidewinder of a strike to give the Breakers all three points as they travelled to West Coast Warriors. Handon United were unable to make up any real ground on Lammerton, as they were held to a 2-2 draw at Port James. And there was another shock result, as Cornellians were forced to come from behind to earn a share of the points at Snubbeak Rock.

Champions' Cup -- Group Phase
(COS) Mallox 3-1 Handon United
Cornellians 1-0 1830 Cathair FC (AUD)
(PAS) Baskita FC 3-2 Port Sebastian

There was yet more bad news for Handon United, who were thoroughly outplayed as they travelled to Cosumar to take on Mallox. Remember Till Ümann, yup, he's there, and the former FC Soessch veteran looked keen to remind Schottic football that he is very much still alive, with what was a solid performance. Cornellians had a late Mershawn Mercury strike to thank for their narrow win at home to 1830 Cathair, in a match that could have gone either way. And Port Sebastain are looking a little off the pace in the competition, as goals from Kendall and Renning couldn't prevent them going down 3-2 to Baskita.

Globe Cup -- Group Phase
Lammerton 1-1 SC Cascadia (NFX)
(NPH) Vermillion Rage 1-5 Marionville

Lammerton battled their way to a share of the points, as they faced SC Cascadia in front of a sell-out City Ground. Lammerton came into the match off the back of a heavy defeat, so Raquel Naeher's 80 minute equaliser will been a big relief to manager Johnny Smith. Marionville, however, seem to have taken to UICA football like a duck to water. Circe Rosenthal will have no doubt enjoyed her return to Nephara, scoring one and setting up another, as the Old Boys gave Vermillion Rage a real hiding. The 5-1 scoreline undoubtedly flattered the Schottians, but it will have served as a good introduction for Laura Carrow, as the 22-year-old Nepharim really bossed the game from the midfield.

Series B -- Group Phase
West Coast Warriors 2-3 Wushan Stars (YZH)
(SOL) Union Orange 0-1 West Holbrookdale

West Coast Warriors are yet another club who seem to be finding the going very hard. Livia Hassenthaler and Gabi Bear both found the back of the net, but it wasn't enough for the Port James club. West Holbrookdale continued their march though, Benkè Oulonagawi earning them another three points against Union Orange.

SPL
Cornellians 5–1 New Belfast Warriors
Handon United 1–0 Central Stars
New Island 3–1 Port James Athletic
Kirk Preston United 5–1 Kings Park
West Holbrookdale 1–0 New Belfast Blues
Mucusia 0–0 Dundee
Lammerton 0–0 Marionville
Port Patrick United 1–0 Port Sebastian
FC Soessch 1–0 West Coast Warriors
Snubbeak Rock 0–0 La Gorlions

Cornellians really needed this. A big result, in front of their bitterly impatient home fans will have reinstated some much needed belief in the side after a sloppy league result and a limp start to the Champions' Cup campaign. Marshawn Mercury kept his place following his goal midweek, and controversially started ahead of skipper, Kathryn Kvanderwyk, with Catherine Gryphon taking the armband. Even more surprising was first start for 19-year-old Thomas Still, who has been highly impressing for the Eagles in the Youth Champions' League. The midfielder kept Johannas Ünterhausen on the bench as he slotted in alongside Gryphon and Irwin. Echani, Mercury, rewarded Shale's confidence in him, scoring one either side of half time as he helped the champs open up a convincing lead. Cornellians pressed the Warriors hard in the second half, and goals from Emil Eklund, Isla Sibučić, and John Fyfe capped off that was probably Reinhard Shale's side's best performance of the season so far.

Kirk Preston's sensational season continued as they left Kings Park smarting with a resounding win at Auldgate Road. You'd have been forgiven for thinking you were watching one of the top two sides, the way Kirk Preston took apart a team with the standing of Kings Park. Oskar Holst has been looking top class this year, and the young Farf striker harassed the Royals defence for the full ninety minutes. Afton Prichard's goal was the pick of the bunch though, as the Schottia U21 star volleyed home a stinging effort, connecting with a cross from Mathilda Weiss. The result, remarkably, moves the Holy Men to the top of the SPL table.

There was another surprising result at the Rock Ground, where New Island defeated Port James Athletic 3-1. There is now going to be a fair bit of heat on Jimmy Mitchel, as goals from Aya Bernman, Enid Gil, and Bob Ingleburn will have given the under fire manager a headache he really didn't need. Time is probably now ticking on the 62-year-old's time in charge of the Seasiders.

Elsewhere: Daniel Dostalok got a toe to a Marc-André Onasi cross to in a narrow 1-0 win for United over Central Stars. Cha Won Kae scored his fourth goal of the season in the Dale's win over NBB. And Chase Ziegenhorn's first half goal gave Port Patrick the bragging rights in the North Handon derby.

Champions' Cup -- Group Phase
Handon United 2-1 Sporting Esper (ZWZ)
(CMT) Tihon 1-0 Cornellians
Port Sebastian 0-1 Pajukas Sport (BYN)

Handon United needed to get some serious points on the board in the Champions' Cup, and they managed just that as they recorded a 2-1 win over Sporting Esper. After a slow start, Jane Gullie's side netted twice in the second half as they got their campaign going in earnest. Cornellians were left with their heads in their hands, however, as they failed to take anything from their trip to Chromatika. Tihon, featuring one Corinne Martel-Burns, will have left Reinhard Shale with a lot of thinking to do. And Port Sebastian's campaign is almost over already, as they failed to take their chances in a 1-0 defeat to Buyanese side, Pajukas Sport.

Globe Cup -- Group Phase
Lammerton 1-1 Tanrısal (PAS)
(CEN) 1860 Azoth 0-0 Marionville

There was another draw for Lammerton, as Kaytlyne Victoriane levelled for them against Tanrısal. It was a decent result, but not the three points Johnny Smith would have been looking for. Marionville also held out for a draw in their visit to Ceni to take on former Champions' Cup winners, 1860 Azoth. The Old Boys held firm at the back and ground out what will go down as a good result.

Series B -- Group Phase
West Coast Warriors 0-3 Zakhoro Aces (COS)
(TUR) Sokattack Mliona 2-1 West Holbrookdale

There was very little to cheer in the Series B though, as both West Coast and the Dale were well beaten. It's a bit of a set back for West Holbrookdale, but for the Archers, it hints at the end of the road.

SPL
La Gorlions 0–1 Cornellians
West Coast Warriors 1–1 Snubbeak Rock
Port Sebastian 0–0 FC Soessch
Marionville 1–1 Port Patrick United
Dundee 1–3 Lammerton
New Belfast Blues 1–1 Mucusia
Kings Park 1–2 West Holbrookdale
Port James Athletic 0–2 Kirk Preston United
Central Stars 1–0 New Island
New Belfast Warriors 2–3 Handon United

After a couple of weeks they would clearly like top forget, Lammerton were back in business with a 3-1 win away to Dundee. You could see how much the three points meant to manager Johnny Smith on the return to his old club, as the result kept the Hornets in touching distance at the top. Dundee took the lead after ten minutes, when Mark Keane slipped his marker before burying a shot in the bottom corner. Lammerton responded well however, and Elspeth Glendening pulled them level just before half time, after getting on the end of a Raquel Naeher cross. The Nepharim put the side in front shortly after the restart and Kaytlyne Victoriane headed in a Mars Alexandersson corner fifteen minutes from the end to seal the deal.

Kirk Preston remain top though, with yet another impressive win on the road, this time over struggling Port James Athletic. The Holy Men were just too good in every department, with Prichard, Weiss, and Killanen all outstanding going forward in support of the front two. Former Schottia star, Killanen, opened the scoring with a stinging strike from well outside the area, before Leopoldo Ramirez scored the second from the penalty spot, after Oskar Holst was cynically brought down.

Handon United are another club who remain snapping at the heels of the leaders, thanks to a 3-2 win away to their old rivals, New Belfast Warriors. Line Stenberg was woman of the match in her best performance since joining from Kingsgrove in the summer, and the Schottia star had a hand in both second half goals. With the scores at 2-2, the Whalers were in it right up to the end, when Regatta Aspenwood netted from just inside the area.

Elsewhere: Jade Irwin's goal was all it took to separate the teams as Cornellians travelled to La Gorlions. Goals from Mirka Shitakuari and Ian MacLauren will have given Raven Cullen a massive headache as the Dale beat Kings Park. And a distance effort from Anda Fischer ensured Central Stars victory over New Island.

SPL
Cornellians 1–2 Handon United
New Island 0–0 New Belfast Warriors
Kirk Preston United 3–3 Central Stars
West Holbrookdale 3–4 Port James Athletic
Mucusia 1–1 Kings Park
Lammerton 3–0 New Belfast Blues
Port Patrick United 0–1 Dundee
FC Soessch 1–2 Marionville
Snubbeak Rock 2–3 Port Sebastian
La Gorlions 4–3 West Coast Warriors

Handon United dealt a crucial blow in the title race, winning a dramatic encounter at Lochend Stadium. Thomas Still kept his place in the starting eleven, however Mershawn Mercury was back on the bench, with Kathryn Kvanderwyk making her first start in three for the Eagles. United were without a suspended Regatta Aspenwood, and skipper JK Cottle failed to recover from injury in time. Magdalen Demetrius and Wilbur Hoogerwerf-Sund were brought in respectively. United took the fight to the hosts from the off, and went close with efforts from Line Stenberg and Danile Dostalok before Natalie Adams broke the deadlock. The Southern Sunrise born midfielder saw her looping effort land in the back of the net despite Harry Gould's best efforts to keep it out. Cornellians were finding the going difficult, but they managed to pull level just before half time, as Catherine Gryphon distance effort cannoned back into the path of Kvanderwyk. Jane Gullie's side deserved the three points however, and after a neat exchange between Marc-André Onasi and substitute, Solomon Johnson, the former was sent racing through on goal to power home the winner.

While all eyes were on the match at Lochend, Lammerton calmly moved back up to the top of the table. It was an assured and polished performance from the Hornets, who did exactly what was required to leave the Blues struggling down at the foot of the table. There appears to be a real lack of belief in the New Belfast side, and Lammerton were more than happy to take full advantage, with Mars Alexandersson and Raquel Naeher both excelling. It still early day in the SPL season, but with only one draw and one defeat in their first twelve games, Johnny Smith has his side exactly where they want to be.

Port Sebastian moved up to just three points off fourth place, but they had to work harder than they would have liked against Snubbeak. The former champions were pegged back for long periods of the game, but crucially, they weren't wasteful in front of goal. Eloisa Purinton was back in the first team and made a big impact as her delightful pass set up Heron Kendall for the side's second goal.

Elsewhere: Kirk Preston fell victim to a late Josiha Hutton goal, as they could only manage a draw with Central Stars. Jessica Grey dispatched a stoppage time corner from Circe Rosenthal as Marionville won at FC Soessch. And Jimmy Mitchel may hang on to his job for another week, after Athletic secured a 4-3 win over newly promoted West Holbrookdale.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Three

Player: Eoin Killanen -- Kirk Preston United
Possibly the most sensational transfer in SPL history, Killanen's decision to spend his last season playing for his father has certainly put a twist on this season. Me might have lost half a metre's pace, but he is still as dangerous around the box as he has always been.

Young Player: Andy Fischer -- Central Stars
Fischer looks like a real quality player, and has adapted very quickly to life in the SPL. The Stars have had a very good month, picking up seven points, and the 21-year-old has made a big contribution to that.

Manager: Ross Killanen -- Kirk Preston United
Kirk Preston have enjoyed an excellent couple of months, and if they keep going at this rate, Champions' Cup football is not out of the question.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Lammerton              12   10   1   1    28   14  +14    31
 2 Kirk Preston United    12    9   3   0    26   11  +15    30
 3 Handon United          12    9   2   1    24   11  +13    29
 4 Cornellians            12    8   2   2    26   14  +12    26
 5 Port Sebastian         12    7   2   3    24   16   +8    23
 6 Dundee                 12    6   3   3    14    9   +5    21
 7 Port Patrick United    12    6   2   4    15   12   +3    20
 8 New Belfast Warriors   12    6   2   4    23   26   −3    20
 9 New Island             12    6   1   5    14   13   +1    19
10 FC Soessch             12    6   1   5    12   11   +1    19
11 Marionville            12    4   5   3    23   16   +7    17
12 West Holbrookdale      12    5   1   6    18   20   −2    16
13 Central Stars          12    4   3   5    20   23   −3    15
14 Mucusia                12    3   3   6    11   19   −8    12
15 Port James Athletic    12    3   2   7    19   23   −4    11
16 Kings Park             12    2   5   5    19   24   −5    11
17 La Gorlions            12    2   2   8    17   27  −10     8
18 Snubbeak Rock          12    0   3   9     8   22  −14     3
19 New Belfast Blues      12    0   3   9     7   25  −18     3
20 West Coast Warriors    12    0   2  10     9   21  −12     2

Schottic Cup -- Round of Thirty-Two

Lochend Town 0–0 Lammerton (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Lammerton City 0–0 Port Sebastian (0–1 AET)
La Gorlions 2–2 Bara Waves (2–3 AET)
Hillstreet 2–2 FC Soessch (4–2 AET)
West Coast Warriors 1–0 Jena VB
Handon North 2–1 Mucusia
Hollin 4–2 University of Handon
Dundee 1–0 Berwick United
New Island 1–2 Port James Athletic
New Belfast Blues 3–3 Port Patrick United (3–4 AET)
Kirk Preston United 1–1 Cornellians (2–2 AET) (3–2 pen.)
New Belfast Warriors 0–0 Central Stars (0–0 AET) (2–4 pen.)
Kings Park 3–1 Marionville
D'Itille 3–2 West Holbrookdale
FC Döllar 3–1 Snubbeak Rock
Granton Vale 1–2 Handon United

by **Schottia** » Tue Mar 13, 2018 1:02 am

Matchday Thirteen - Eighteen & UICA Group Phase

SPL
West Coast Warriors 1–0 Cornellians
Port Sebastian 1–1 La Gorlions
Marionville 3–1 Snubbeak Rock
Dundee 1–0 FC Soessch
New Belfast Blues 2–3 Port Patrick United
Kings Park 3–3 Lammerton
Port James Athletic 5–0 Mucusia
Central Stars 2–2 West Holbrookdale
New Belfast Warriors 1–1 Kirk Preston United
Handon United 1–2 New Island

There were some very unusual results this week, as none of the teams at the top of the table managed to make any headway. Lammerton can count themselves very fortunate that they managed to hold on to top spot after a couple of late goals from Kings Park saw them squander two points. After a tight first half, the Hornets must have thought they were coasting to another victory, thanks to a quick fire Elspeth Glendening brace just after the restart. Kings Park have often been denied the rub of the green this season, but this week their luck was in, as they managed to secure a share of the points. Meghan Hartsdown set hearts racing with ten minutes to go as the skipper produced a scintillating forward ball to brilliantly tee-up a goal for Dejan Corvell. Billy McCorralie then converted the second to earn the Royals a draw.

Things are now getting dire for the Blues, and another defeat at home will do nothing for their survival chances. Port Patrick United, deserved the three points, but the fact that the homes side threw away a 2-1 lead will be a disappointment to manager Chris Okywa. The Breakers never gave up, and Connie Malone and Aleksander Heino-Watanabe battled away in the midfield from start to finish. Whitney Kelly and Chimera Moxham both struck late to secure all three points.

There was a sore one for Mucusia this week, as Port James bought Jimmy Mitchel another week in the job. There was some exquisite play from Anna Meyreani, along with a real battling performance, as the Seasiders got the game by the scruff of the neck. Most reassuring of all however, will have been Mark Anannd's second half double, proving that the striker is perhaps coming on to a game.

In other results: Marionville made light work of Snubbeak Rock in their 3-1 win. West Coast Warriors pulled off one of the shocks of the season as they defeated Cornellians 1-0 in Port James. And a long-range effort from Herlinda Sterling helped New Island to a surprise win over Handon United.

Champions' Cup -- Group Phase
(ZWZ) Sporting Esper 2-0 Handon United
Cornellians 0-0 Tihon (CMT)
(BYN) Pajukas Sport 1-2 Port Sebastian

Handon United have left themselves with a fair bit to do now, after a 2-0 defeat away to Sporting Esper. Jane Gullie went public, stating her disappointment that her players failed to rise to the occasion, and questioned their desire to win tournaments like this. Emil Eklund squandered a gilt-edge chance for Cornellians as they welcomed Tihon Tide to Lochend Stadium. The Buyanese found himself one on one with Sherlyn Joy, but failed to test the keeper at close range. And Port Sebastian finally got their first points on the board in Champions' Cup competition, as goals from Avi Renning and Heron Kendall gave them a 2-1 win in Pajukas.

Globe Cup -- Group Phase
(PAS) Tanrısal 1-0 Lammerton
Marionville 1-1 1860 Azoth (CEN)

In the Globe Cup Lammerton missed out on an excellent chance to stake a claim for qualification, as they stumbled to a 1-0 defeat in Pasarga. Tanrısal are no slouches, and on the balance of play, deserved their three points. Marionville held out once more against former Champions' Cup winners, Azoth, as they welcomed the Cenians to Schottia. There was a bit of a homecoming for Souter, Carlin, and Larry Watt, as the Schottic trio form the back bone of the Azoth defence. Ben Chillotov put Luke Longstar's side ahead in the first half, but a late equaliser from Jessica Grey ensured the Old Boys a share of the points.

Series B -- Group Phase
(COS) Zakhoro Aces 2-1 West Coast Warriors
West Holbrookdale 1-1 Sokattack Mliona (TUR)

It wasn't the best of weeks for Schottic clubs in generally, and a couple of flappy performances in the Series B really summed that up. West Coast Warriors fell short on their trip to Cosumar, while West Holbrookdale failed to make the their chances count against Sokattack Mliona.

SPL
Cornellians 5–1 New Island
Kirk Preston United 3–1 Handon United
West Holbrookdale 1–2 New Belfast Warriors
Mucusia 1–2 Central Stars
Lammerton 1–1 Port James Athletic
Port Patrick United 3–3 Kings Park
FC Soessch 3–1 New Belfast Blues
Snubbeak Rock 0–1 Dundee
La Gorlions 0–2 Marionville
West Coast Warriors 0–1 Port Sebastian

We are now in uncharted waters without a sail or a paddle it seams, as Kirk Preston United went top of the SPL after fourteen matches played, with a 3-1 win over Handon United. Oli Helling was lucky to stay on the pitch after clattering heavily with Rachel Hellion in the opening five minutes, and this seemed to set the tone for what was a fiery match. Eoin Killanen was at his snarling best, tackling hard, and pushing forward at every opportunity. United enjoyed more of the possession, but seemed unable to do very much with it, as they lost out on the physical battle in the midfield. Oskar Holst was the difference in attack, however, as the Farf striker scored one and set up another in a brilliant second half display. Line Stenberg scored a late header for United, but it was too little, too late.

Languishing mid-table was not part of the plan for FC Soessch this season, and Barry Gorman will have been keen to get his players pulling in the right direction once more. A very comfortable home win over NBB will have gone some way towards to installing some much needed belief. Allie Vacek has made a big impression since joining from Klyde in the summer, and the Anglatian winger was woman of the match in this game. Goals from David Hughes, Melanie Ünterhausen, and Kerstin Dornenberger gave Die Rote Teufel a 3-1 win.

Cornellianst took the opportunity to insert themselves in the title race, recording an impressive 5-1 win at home to New Island. Thomas Still scored his first goal for the Eagles, after getting his head on the end of a Jade Irwin corner. Isla Sibučić also moved herself to the top of the goal scorers chart with goals either side of half time; the Cosumarite was at her best once again, and the Pebbles' defence really struggled to find an answer.

Elsewhere: An Andy Bell double gave Marionville a 2-0 win as they paid La Gorlions a visit. A stoppage time goal from Chase Ziegenhorn salvaged a draw for Port Patrick as they took on Kings Park. And a powerful Colin Loweson drive spared Porty's blushes as they won 1-0 at West Coast Warriors.

Champions' Cup -- Group Phase
(PAS) CA Paulinthal 0-2 Handon United
Cornellians 1-1 Crawford City (COS)
(AUD) Cazadores Cathair 1-0 Port Sebastian

Handon United grabbed a vital three points in their bid to qualify for the Champion's Cup knockouts. A 2-0 win over CAP in Pasarga is a highly impressive result, and showed a lot of guts and resilience for the club to spring back from their disaster at Kirk Preston. Chromatik star, Rachel Hellion, secured the three points with a peach of a freekick, pinging in off the crossbar. Cornellians missed yet another great chance to make some progress, as they failed to beat Crawford City at Lochend Stadium. In what was a close match, neither side were able to find the decisive goal. And it is now the end of the road for Port Sebastian, barring any miracles, as Audioslavian side, Cazadores Cathair defeated them for a second time.

Globe Cup -- Group Phase
Lammerton 1-2 OAS Royal FC (COS)
(TUR) Mliona-Lpaka 2-0 Marionville

Lammerton didn't really have enough in the tank to get the result they needed against OAS Royal. Despite a strong opening half hour where they took the lead through Raquel Naeher, the Hornets fizzled out against the Cosumarite club, bringing their UICA adventure to an early end. And after some strong results, Marionville were finally brought down to earth with a bang, as they lost 2-0 to Mliona-Lpaka in Turori.

Series B -- Group Phase
West Coast Warriors 0-2 Agri Foodbowl (ETM)
(ETN) Southern Hampton City 0-1 West Holbrookdale

It was a mixed set of the results in the Series B, with West Coast Warriors failing to make home advantage count against Agri Foodbowl, while the Dale continue their good run with a 1-0 in Ethane.

SPL
Port Sebastian 2–2 Cornellians
Marionville 1–0 West Coast Warriors
Dundee 1–0 La Gorlions
New Belfast Blues 6–2 Snubbeak Rock
Kings Park 1–0 FC Soessch
Port James Athletic 2–2 Port Patrick United
Central Stars 0–2 Lammerton
New Belfast Warriors 4–4 Mucusia
Handon United 1–0 West Holbrookdale
New Island 6–3 Kirk Preston United

We were all left scratching our heads after Kirk Preston's 6-3 defeat at the hands of New Islands seemed to come out of nowhere. The Holy Men had Matilda Weiss out injured, but that can hardly be the only reason for a side - who have been up to the point flawless - letting in six goals. Was this perhaps the day a star was born, as Bob Ingleburn scored a second half hattrick? The former academy star was outstanding on the right wing, showing he has pace to burn and skill in abundance. After a tight fist half it was the 20-year-old who really shone, Enid Gil also scored in stoppage time go round off a stunning win. It's going to be a tall order for the Pebbles to make the UICA spots this season, but there is at least proof that things are moving in the right direction.

The Hornets hopped back up to the top of the table with the first Lammerton derby we've seen in a few seasons. Central Stars verses Lammerton FC isn't a match that has much history, but on this viewing, the fixture looks like it might have some potential. The gulf between the two side was apparent, however, and after goals from Elspeth Glendening and Raquel Naeher there was little way back for the Stars. Mars Alexandersson almost added a third late on, as a thirty-metre freekick clipped the top of the bar.

Port Sebastian faced the daunting prospect of playing host to an on form Cornellians. The hosts were made to work hard in the centre of the pitch, and Catherine Gryphon and Thomas Still would not give Avi Renning an inch in the middle of the park. With Porty a goal down going into the final fifteen minutes, it was left to substitute Richard Geddes to rescue a point for the Handon side.

In other matches: Niki Temples scored three in a vital win for the Blues over Snubbeak. Handon United had Marc-André Onasi thank for making the breakthrough in their match with West Holbrookdale. And Sendoa scored the only goal of the game in Kings Park's win over FC Soessch.

Champions' Cup -- Group Phase
Handon United 1-2 Mallox (COS)
(AUD) 1830 Cathair FC 1-2 Cornellians
Port Sebastian 0-1 Baskita FC (PAS)

Handon United were through to the knockouts, but they will have been left frustrated that the group phase ended in defeat to Mallox. The Cosumarite Champions have looked in good shape over the last twelve months, and this win at Harbour Hill won't have come as too much of a surprise. Cornellians picked up a 2-1 win in Audioslavia to make the consolation prise of the Globe Cup. Kathryn Kvanderwyk and John Fyfe scored the goals that helped them get past giants, 1830 Cathair. For Port Sebastian it is a case of must do better, however, as a 1-0 defeat to Baskita saw an end to their UICA involvement for another year.

Globe Cup -- Group Phase
(NFX) SC Cascadia 2-2 Lammerton
Marionville 1-1 Vermillion Rage (NPH)

Lammerton's first outing in the Globe Cup ended with elimination despite a 2-2 draw in 95X. The Hornets gave a good enough account of themselves, but really needed to convert some of their draws to wins. Marionville on the other hand have breezed through their first test, a draw at home to Vermillion Rage the latest in a run of good results. The Old Boys were unable to recreate their incredible 5-1 win in Nephara, but the draw will go down as a good result.

Series B -- Group Phase
(YZH) Wushan Stars 0-3 West Coast Warriors
West Holbrookdale 1-1 Union Orange (SOL)

West Coast Warriors went out on a high, despite a lacklustre showing in the Series B. Eleni Melas scored twice in their 3-0 win over Wushan Stars. And West Holbrookdale are safely through, following a 1-1 draw with Union Orange.

SPL
Cornellians 0–2 Kirk Preston United
West Holbrookdale 1–3 New Island
Mucusia 0–1 Handon United
Lammerton 1–1 New Belfast Warriors
Port Patrick United 2–1 Central Stars
FC Soessch 1–2 Port James Athletic
Snubbeak Rock 2–3 Kings Park
La Gorlions 2–1 New Belfast Blues
West Coast Warriors 0–1 Dundee
Port Sebastian 1–0 Marionville

Kirk Preston for the SPL title? Well, it's a long way to go but a 2-0 win at Lochend Stadium leaves us - not for the first time this season - wondering what we might be about to witness. Poor Berg and Steelhenge really got the Oskar Holst treatment, as the Farf striker was a constant menace from start to finish. Eoin Killanen, slipped the attention of Catherine Gryphon before firing home his seventh goal of the season midway thought the firs half. Holst tucked away the second after Leopoldo Ramirez nodded down a Matilda Weiss cross to leave the Schottic press struggling to process the result.

There was a fascinating encounter with two contrasting styles, as Central Stars took on Port Patrick United at Galloway Road. The Breakers' directness prevailed in the end though, as the pace of Whitney Kelly was twice their undoing. The Chromatik cut the ball back for Chimera Moxham to riffle home the first. Kelly then came up with the goods a second time, dancing past two challenges before picking out Aleksander Heino-Watanabe at the back post.

Port Sebastian need to keep the pressure on in the title race, and a win over one of the other Champions' Cup contenders, Marionville, will go a long way towards that goal. Marionville have looked outstanding since their return to the SPL last season, but in this occasion, Porty came out on top. A darting run from Alexander Alan left Dawn Morham uncharacteristically flat footed, before the winger picked out Keeva Crow at the back post for the only goal of the game.

Elsewhere: A Sett Horn strike gave Dundee victory over West Coast Warriors. New Island recorded an impressive victory over West Holbrookdale. And results seem to have picked up for Athletic, with a 2-1 win over FC Soessch.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Four

Player: Jim Gerrish -- Dundee
Dundee have had a very, very good month and a lot of it comes down to this man. It's easy to see why Jim Gerrish has been capped for Schottia, a destroyer midfielder, who has a bit of quality about him.

Young Player: Oskar Holst -- Kirk Preston United
A second award of the year for the young striker. Our advice to Kirk Preston is just enjoy this guy while you can, because based on what we've seen, he is destined for much bigger things.

Manager: Walter Queen -- Dundee
Dundee have been in very good form, and Walter Queen will be hoping this represents something of an upturn in general. Stringing results together over the season as a whole has often been a problem for the club,

Cup Winners' Cup -- First Round
Port Sebastian 6-2 Venividicci (FID)

SPL
Marionville 0–0 Cornellians
Dundee 0–1 Port Sebastian
New Belfast Blues 2–0 West Coast Warriors
Kings Park 2–1 La Gorlions
Port James Athletic 0–0 Snubbeak Rock
Central Stars 0–0 FC Soessch
New Belfast Warriors 1–2 Port Patrick United
Handon United 2–4 Lammerton
New Island 2–0 Mucusia
Kirk Preston United 0–0 West Holbrookdale

This was the week were we had to put to one side any disillusion about Lammerton not having the stomach for the fight. The Central Schottic club are very much in this title race, and on current form, you'd have to make them favourites. Not many teams in the Multiverse will go to Harbour Hill and make United look second rate, but that's exactly what Lammerton did. Kaytlyne Victoriane enhanced reputation further, with a brilliant performance in which she really gave Jayden Fox the run-around. Without UICA football to distract them, Lammerton have a clear run at things, and with the title their only focus, perhaps this is the year they make the step up from simply being a supporting act.

Vera Cummings failed to do the dirty on her former charges, as Dundee faced Port Sebastian in front of a sell-out crowd. Dundee defended well, as you would expect, but failed to make anything stick at the sharp end. Sett Horn passed up a good chance, and Mark Keane was unable to convert a opportunity from the angle of the box. Heron Kendall turned poacher, scoring the only goal of the game after a loose back pass, to give Porty all three points.

In an otherwise low scoring week, Kings Park did much to haul them selves back up the standings, with a 2-1 win at home to La Gorlions. Meghan Hartsdown is a player screaming out for a move, and while the Royals are no bad side, the Brenecian was head and shoulders above her teammates. Cephus Hunt headed home an Andrya Novkovic freekick to cancel out Dejan Corvell's opener; but Billy McCorralie found the net in the second half to secure the result.
In other matches: Alasdair Nesbo was on form in the Blues 2-0 win over the Archers. Port Patrick United looked to get themselves into the UICA chase with a 2-1 win over the Warriors. And Ramone Scotta scored a double in New Island's 2-0 win at home to Mucusia.

Cup Winners' Cup -- First Round
(FID) Venividicci 0-2 Port Sebastian

SPL
Cornellians 4–1 West Holbrookdale
Mucusia 1–0 Kirk Preston United
Lammerton 3–1 New Island
Port Patrick United 3–3 Handon United
FC Soessch 2–3 New Belfast Warriors
Snubbeak Rock 1–0 Central Stars
La Gorlions 4–1 Port James Athletic
West Coast Warriors 1–1 Kings Park
Port Sebastian 1–0 New Belfast Blues
Marionville 2–0 Dundee

Port James Athletic have finally lost patience with Jimmy Mitchel as Athletic suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of La Gorlions. While there are many who will say the former Pirates boss has made improvements in his time at the club, the hard truth is, the success has simply not matched the money spent on the squad. Mitchel's style of play has been popular, but his failure to deliver UICA football has not. Whoever takes over will have a tough job: early favourites include Cosumar assistant Casey Brind, Blues boss Chris Okywa, and former Breakers gaffer, Des Pleent. Athletic were never really at the races, as a Kirsten Gemmill double helped the Lions to their best win of the season so far.

Cornellians were back up to fifth, just two points behind United, as they swept West Holbrookdale aside in their match at Lochend. Johannas Ünterhausen opened the scoring for the Eagles with low strike from the edge of the area, before Isla Sibučić skipped into the box to slide home a second. The Dale were struggling by this point, and as Isidra Jeurissen scored her first goal for the club it was clear there was no way back for the visitors. Highly rated Pasargan teenager, Bendegúz Kádár, pulled one back for Grant Nean's side, but Kathryn Kvanderwyk brilliantly crafted an opening for substitute Mershawn Mercury to slot in a fourth.

Lammerton moved five points clear at the top of the table with a 3-1 win over New Island. There is now some real daylight at the top between Hornets and the chasing pack, as picking up the league title becomes a distinct possibility. Raquel Naeher was player of the match, with two assists, as her ability to sprint at the back four caused the Pebbles endless problems throughout the match.

In other results: Handon United were held to a 3-3 draw by the Breakers, despite a Regatta Aspenwood double. Tomás Fierro scored a late winner for the Warriors against Soessch. And Suilven Roagart was on target for Marionville in a 2-0 win over Dundee at the Allen Dixon Arena.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Lammerton              18   13   4   1    42   22  +20    43
 2 Kirk Preston United    18   11   5   2    35   20  +15    38
 3 Port Sebastian         18   11   4   3    31   19  +12    37
 4 Handon United          18   11   3   4    33   23  +10    36
 5 Cornellians            18   10   4   4    37   21  +16    34
 6 Dundee                 18   10   3   5    18   12   +6    33
 7 Port Patrick United    18    9   5   4    30   24   +6    32
 8 New Island             18   10   1   7    29   26   +3    31
 9 Marionville            18    8   6   4    31   18  +13    30
10 New Belfast Warriors   18    8   5   5    35   37   −2    29
11 FC Soessch             18    7   2   9    18   19   −1    23
12 Kings Park             18    5   8   5    32   34   −2    23
13 Port James Athletic    18    5   5   8    30   31   −1    20
14 Central Stars          18    5   5   8    25   31   −6    20
15 West Holbrookdale      18    5   3  10    23   32   −9    18
16 Mucusia                18    4   4  10    17   33  −16    16
17 La Gorlions            18    4   3  11    25   35  −10    15
18 New Belfast Blues      18    2   3  13    19   36  −17     9
19 Snubbeak Rock          18    1   4  13    14   35  −21     7
20 West Coast Warriors    18    1   3  14    11   27  −16     6

Schottic Cup -- Round of Sixteen

FC Döllar 1–0 Central Stars
Handon North 1–2 Port Sebastian
Bara Waves 0–0 Handon United (0–0 AET) (3–1 pen.)
Port Patrick United 0–1 Kings Park
Hillstreet 0–1 Lammerton
West Coast Warriors 2–0 Dundee
Port James Athletic 3–1 Hollin
Kirk Preston United 0–0 D'Itille (0–0 AET) (6–5 pen.)

by **Schottia** » Wed Mar 14, 2018 12:02 pm

Matchday Nineteen - Twenty-Four & UICA Knockouts

Cup Winners' Cup -- Last Sixteen
(WRL) Navel FC 1-0 Port Sebastian

SPL
Dundee 0–1 Cornellians
New Belfast Blues 0–0 Marionville
Kings Park 0–1 Port Sebastian
Port James Athletic 2–2 West Coast Warriors
Central Stars 3–0 La Gorlions
New Belfast Warriors 5–0 Snubbeak Rock
Handon United 1–2 FC Soessch
New Island 2–4 Port Patrick United
Kirk Preston United 1–3 Lammerton
West Holbrookdale 0–0 Mucusia

With a convincing win over Kirk Preston, the championship push probably got a bit more real for Lammerton. The Hornets have a nice six point cushion over second as we reach the half way point, and with the kind of performances they've been putting in recently, that might just get bigger. Kirk Preston had been talking all week about this opportunity to reclaim the top spot, but after 45 minutes, it seemed obvious that that wasn't going to happen. Ezequiel Marchiondo reached the by-line before playing the ball into the path of Elspeth Glendening as the Hornets opened the scoring. Raquel Naeher made it 2-0 just before half time, and it this point it was really all one-way traffic. Matilda Weiss pulled one back for the Holy Men, but they were second best in every department, and as Jasper Valaran played Naeher in for her second, the writing was already on the wall.

Port Sebastian have been going about their business quietly this season, but with a win away to Kings Park, the side saw themselves move up to second in the league. Avi Renning scored his fourth goal of the season, as he half-volleyed home from a Paul Doig throw just after half time. The Royals fought hard and probably felt they deserved to take something from the game, but it wasn't to be their day.

Port Patrick are up into the Globe Cup spots now, and looked good, in a 4-2 win over New Island. The Handon side are considerably better than last season, with Conner Watts bringing a greater balance to the side. The midfield three of Moxham, Malone, and Heino-Watanabe were all outstanding, while Chase Ziegenhorn continues to develop into a top-class player, as the 20-year-old tucked home a second half double.

In other results: Miki netted twice in Central Stars' 3-0 win over La Gorlions. Avila Wardenier was player of the match in New Belfast Warriors 5-0 victory at home to Snubbeak. And a late goal from David Hughes inflicted a 2-1 defeat on Handon United, seeing them slip out of the top four.

Cup Winners' Cup -- Last Sixteen
Port Sebastian 2-0 Navel FC (WRL)

SPL
Cornellians 2–1 Mucusia
West Holbrookdale 2–0 Lammerton
Kirk Preston United 2–2 Port Patrick United
New Island 0–1 FC Soessch
Handon United 2–0 Snubbeak Rock
New Belfast Warriors 3–1 La Gorlions
Central Stars 3–1 West Coast Warriors
Port James Athletic 2–0 Port Sebastian
Kings Park 2–2 Marionville
New Belfast Blues 1–0 Dundee

Right when Lammerton needed to show a bit of composure, they found themselves on the wrong end of a 2-0 defeat at Callview Park. Grant Nean was the man with the plan, as his unorthodox 3-6-1 formation seemed to confuse the visitors more than anything else. Mirka Shitakuari turned in a pass from Ian MacLauren for her ninth goal of the season, before Cha Won Kae scored the side's second against the run of play towards the end of the match. On the whole, West Holbrookdale deserved the three points, although Johnny Smith will be annoyed by some of his side's missed chances when the scores were still 1-0. Lammerton had a cushion going into this one so they remain top, but the team will have to make sure they don't start losing their heads at this point.

Managerless Port James Athletic proved that they are perhaps better off alone, as they recorded one of their best wins of the season so far. Interim coach, Mark Kelman, has gone back to a more conventional 4-4-2, and that seemed to have has the desired affect as they beat Port Sebastian 2-0. Jack Hobbs got the Seasiders off the dream start, racing though on goal to open the scoring with only seven minutes on the clock. Porty pushed hard for an equaliser with both Roisin Carroll and Eloisa Purinton going close, before Athletic dealt the killer blow. Anna Meyreani proved to be a real handful for Paul Doig all afternoon, and the DBC star burst free with an hour on the clock, squaring the ball for Mark Annand to make it two.

Cornellians needed to take this opportunity, and while they failed to grasp it with both hands, they ran out winners nonetheless, as they played host to Mucisia. Twenty-one-year-old Tom Killincic has been brilliant this season, and the Schottia DBC star looked good as he went toe-to-toe with Gryphon and Ünterhausen. Inevitably the Eagles were just too good though, and goals from Emil Eklund and Mabel Finnemark gave them a 2-1 win. Aimée Hétu did pull a goal back for the Eusabians, but they never really looked like adding a second.

On other matches: Handon United got over their momentary blip, as an Onasi double saw them comfortably past Snubbeak. David Hughes, did what David Hughes does best, poaching the goal that won Soessch all three points against New Island. And Kirk Preston slipped up once more, as a late Chimera Moxham goal meant they had to share the points with the Breakers.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Five

Player: Kaytlyne Victoriane -- Lammerton
The Chromatik has been on irresistible form so far this season, helping Lammerton maintain their push on the league title. She has proven herself to be versatile and accomplished attacker, and Victoriane is someone the club need to work hard to hold onto next season.

Young Player: Avi Renning -- Port Sebastian
Most Porty fans can probably now see why manager Nicolas Lars worked so hard to secure this young man's signatures. The Cenian playmaker has provided a creativity badly missing from the Handon side's midfield.

Manager: Nicolas Lars -- Port Sebastian
Port Sebastian look to be making a good go of it this season, in an SPL title race that looks like it could be pretty open at this stage. With the big two struggling for consistency, this could perhaps be Porty's season.

Champions' Cup -- Round of Sixteen
Handon United 4–0 Sabrefell Moths (NPH)

The dream might just be on for Handon United, as they recorded an earth-shattering win over Nepharim Champs, Sabrefell Moths, at Harbour Hill. While the score line might have made the game appear a little more one sided that it was, there is no doubt that this United side are capable of getting the big wins. Daniel Dostalok (2) Marc-André Onasi, and Line Stenberg were all on target for Jane Gullie's side in a 4-0 win, which will arguably go down as their best of the modern era.

Globe Cup -- Round of Thirty-Two
(NGD) Celtic Noviodunum 2–0 Cornellians
Marionville 0–1 SC Cascadia (NFX)

There were also some tough fixtures for Schottia's teams in the Globe Cup, as Cornellians and Marionville took to the stage. Celtic Noviodunum proved that they are one extremely hard nut to crack, as the Eagles went down 2-0 in the first leg of their last-32 tie. It's now going to be a very long way back for Reinhard Shale's side in the home leg. Marionville had similar issues, as they took on SC Cascadia at the Allen Dixon Arena. Jess Grey passed up a couple of decent first half chances, as the team went down 1-0 to the 95Xers.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Round of Sixteen
West Holbrookdale 1–1 Zakhoro Aces (COS)

And things hang in the balance for the Dale, as they could only manage a 1-1 draw with highly rated Cosumarite side Zakhoro Aces. Grant Nean's players will now need to pull of something big when they travel for the return leg.

SPL
New Belfast Blues 0–1 Cornellians
Dundee 0–2 Kings Park
Marionville 2–1 Port James Athletic
Port Sebastian 5–0 Central Stars
West Coast Warriors 1–4 New Belfast Warriors
La Gorlions 0–2 Handon United
Snubbeak Rock 1–2 New Island
FC Soessch 1–1 Kirk Preston United
Port Patrick United 1–0 West Holbrookdale
Lammerton 2–1 Mucusia

Lammerton needed a big response this week, and that was exactly what they got with a hard fought win at home to Mucusia. When Bianca Eaststar scored for the visitors midway through the first half, you could already hear the groans amongst the crowd. However the players didn't let it get to them, and drew level shortly after as Kaytlyne Victoriane connected solidly with a low Ezequiel Marchiondo cross. In the second half it was all Lammerton, and Jasper Valaran shaved the crossbar with a long range drive, before Elspeth Glendening managed to deflect a Mars Alexandersson pass in off her knee for the winning goal.

Port Sebastian had a real stinker last weekend, but their defeat to Port James was a distant memory after a 5-0 drubbing of Central Stars. Avi Renning was man of the match, scoring one and setting up one, as well as making 53 passes in a match where the Porty midfield became very important. The Stars struggled to get a grip of Alexander Alan, and Eloisa Purinton, and the work rate of Renning and Colin Loweson meant the home side dominated the battle on the centre of the pitch.

The Whalers defeated the Archers 4-1 in the battle of the Warriors at Oaker Park. West Coast Warriors are sinking fast right now, and a second half Avila Wardenier double really took the fight from them in this match. Tomás Fierro and Lavender Jameson had originally put the New Belfast side ahead, but Freya MacCosgraigh's goal had given the Port James side a little hope.

Elsewhere: Tsumugi and Dejan Corvel scored the goals in Kings Park's 2-0 win at Dundee. Cornellians could only manage a single goal win over the Blues despite all their possession. And substitute Scott Del Barbaroa struck in injury time, as Marionville took all three points from their match with Port James Athletic.

Champions' Cup -- Round of Sixteen
(NPH) Sabrefell Moths 1-0 Handon United

Handon United were duly outplayed in Sabrefell, but the buffer they set up for themselves in the home leg meant they were never in much danger. The Moths won the midfield battle and that was crucial; however some composed and stout-hearted defending meant United kept a handle on the score-line.

Globe Cup -- Round of Thirty-Two
Cornellians 2-3 Celtic Noviodunum (NGD)
(NFX) SC Cascadia 0-2 Marionville

It was frustration in abundance for Cornellians, as Celtic Noviodunum showed the Lochend support what the hype is all about. The Eagles struggled to keep pace with the Gelderlish side, and despite going ahead twice, were undone by a late goal which saw them dumped from the competition. It wasjubilation for Schottia's other Globe Cup side though, as Jack Cordoba's Marionville produced an inspired performance in 95X to make it through to the last sixteen of the Globe Cup. Jessica Grey was on top form, scoring one of the side's goals, while Vojnomir Nikolic powered home the second in stoppage time.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Round of Sixteen
(COS) Zakhoro Aces 0-1 West Holbrookdale

West Holbrookdale dug very deep indeed, to send one of the tournament favourites, Zakhoro Aces, crashing out of the Series B. Benkè Oulonagawi has found the going a little tricky this season, but the Vormsi born striker scored the important goal which sent his side into the Quarterfinal.

SPL
Cornellians 0–0 Lammerton
Mucusia 2–0 Port Patrick United
West Holbrookdale 0–1 FC Soessch
Kirk Preston United 1–0 Snubbeak Rock
New Island 3–1 La Gorlions
Handon United 5–2 West Coast Warriors
New Belfast Warriors 1–1 Port Sebastian
Central Stars 1–0 Marionville
Port James Athletic 1–0 Dundee
Kings Park 4–2 New Belfast Blues

With the very obvious distraction of the Champions' Cup, Handon United have perhaps been guilty of taking their eye off the domestic ball this season. Therefore, a 5-2 win over struggling West Coast Warriors will have been welcomed as a timely, comfortable win. The Archers are really struggling though, and while we initially thought they would be an exciting addition to the SPL line up, it's clearly too soon for them. Regatta Aspenwood was a constant menace for United throughout the match, scoring one and setting up another. Rachel Hellion was also strong in the midfield, and there was a first Handon United goal for teen prospect Timur Salai, as the Pasargan got his account up and running.

The sting has most certainly gone from Kirk Preston United, and Ross Killanen will have been furious that his side needed a late penalty kick to see off ten men Snubbeak at Auldgate Road. It was a match where the Holy Men struggled to make anything stick; and that fiery, free flowing football we had got so used to, seemed to be absent. Salvation came in the form of Killanen Junior, who tucked the spot-kick into the bottom corner after Matilda Weiss was clumsily brought down in the box.

Relegation threatened Mucusia fought tooth and nail in a brilliant win at home to Port Patrick United. Sarah Foucault gave the Port James side the lead after twenty minutes, latching onto a flick-on from strike partner, Aimée Hétu to smash the ball past Altavian Kalhoro. Diego then made a fantastic save to deny Chimera Moxham, before Hétu put the result beyond doubt with a stunning half volley, twenty minutes from time.

In other matches: Lammerton will be happy with a 0-0 draw against Cornellians, but they must be aware that teams around them are chiselling away at their lead. A goal from Groaré Sasca gave FC Soessch a 1-0 win at West Holbrookdale, which keeps them in the hunt. And a late Josiah Hutton strike gave the Stars a surprise win over on-form Marionville.

SPL
Kings Park 0–1 Cornellians
New Belfast Blues 2–3 Port James Athletic
Dundee 2–0 Central Stars
Marionville 3–0 New Belfast Warriors
Port Sebastian 0–3 Handon United
West Coast Warriors 1–0 New Island
La Gorlions 1–6 Kirk Preston United
Snubbeak Rock 1–5 West Holbrookdale
FC Soessch 3–0 Mucusia
Port Patrick United 1–4 Lammerton

Important news this week is that Kirk Preston seem to be back, with Ross Killanen's side inflicting a humiliating defeat on La Gorlions at Danu Parc. The Lions don't lose very often at home so to be knocked for six will be a difficult one to handle. Guayabalese striker Leopoldo Ramirez netted four goals, two either side of half time, as the Holy Men ran rampant. Eoin Killanen curled in a trademark freekick, and Oskar Holst powered home from close range, after Afton Prichard did well to get to the by-line. There was another top-class performance from Matilda Weiss, while Oli Helling was a real powerhouse in the centre of the park, fuelling further rumours of a Schottia call-up. It's hard to say why it's all going so badly wrong for the Avelione Brothers and La Gorlions this year, as on paper, they don't have a bad team. It may simply be the case that the management team has come to the end of the road.

Lammerton made their 0-0 draw with Cornellians look a hell of a lot better with a 4-1 win over Port Patrick United. To beat the Breakers is no mean feat, but at Galloway Road, and by 4 goals to one..? With so many of their star players now in their prime, Lammerton are never going to get a better chance than this, and it's now just a case of not cracking under the intense pressure. Current Player of The Month, Kaytlyne Victoriane, was at the top of her game once again, getting on the score sheet in the process. There was also a fantastic solo-effort from Mars Alexandersson, who left Mick Webber for dead before stroking the ball into the bottom corner.

With all this going on, it shouldn't have escaped anyone's attention that we had the small matter of a Handon Derby to talk about. Port Sebastian had a big chance to keep the heat on Lammerton, as they took on their fiercest rivals at Dyerton Stadium. Porty weren't at the races however, as a Magdalen Demetrius double at the start of the second half left them utterly deflated. Line Stenberg added another late on as United really whipped the rug out from under their neighbours.

Elsewhere: Isla "Super-Sib" Sibučić floated in a millimetre perfect strike, in Cornellians' 1-0 win at Kings Park. Mirka Shitakuari tucked away a hattrick, in a dominant performance, as the Dale beat Snubbeak Rock 5-1. And Marionville were clinical when they needed to be as they sunk the Warriors 3-0 at the Allen Dixon Arena.

Champions' Cup -- Quarterfinal
Handon United 2–1 AC Izotz Zubia (AUD)

Handon United came out on top in a dramatic first leg match of their Champions' Cup quarterfinal tie with AC Izotz Zubia. Ingþór Auðbjörnsson put the Audioslavians ahead after only seven minutes, but United responded well, and kept their calm despite conceding an early away goal. Jayden Fox made a lung bursting run into the box just before half time, setting up Dainel Dostalok for the equaliser. Jane Gullie's boys and girls continued to pile on the pressure, and Marc-André Onasi earned them the three points they just about deserved, sliding in at the back post to prod home a cross from Nagisa Habane.

Globe Cup -- Round of Sixteen
Marionville 1–1 Olympic Nassau Bay (NGD)

Marionville will once again need to produce a big performance in the away leg, as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Olympic Nassau Bay. It's been a fantastic achievement for the club in what is their first introduction to UICA football, but does this result hint at the end of the road?

Series B Champions' Cup -- Quarterfinal
(AUD) Artiglieria 3–0 West Holbrookdale

And poor West Holbrookdale were totally taken apart by Audioslavian side, Artiglieria. Grant Nean's team failed to get a hold of the game, as they were given a real schooling.

SPL
Cornellians 2–1 Port Patrick United
Lammerton 5–3 FC Soessch
Mucusia 1–0 Snubbeak Rock
West Holbrookdale 1–0 La Gorlions
Kirk Preston United 0–0 West Coast Warriors
New Island 0–3 Port Sebastian
Handon United 1–0 Marionville
New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Dundee
Central Stars 2–2 New Belfast Blues
Port James Athletic 0–2 Kings Park

The big tests just keep on coming for Lammerton, but time and time again, they have come through them unscathed. For 60 minutes they had a real battle on their hands as they welcomed Soessch to the City Ground, with the lead changing hands several times. As Melanie Ünterhausen cut in from the left to curl the ball home for 3-3, Die Rote Teufel fans would have been forgiven for thinking their team were on the ascendency. The Hornets weren't going sit back though, and Jasper Valaran resorted their lead from the edge of the area after some good work from Robard Horvat. The home side them put the result beyond doubt, as Raquel Naeher skipped into the box before setting up Elspeth Glendening, lurking around the penalty area.

Handon United and Cornellians seem to be emerging as the main challengers now, and both sides picked up narrow wins over very tough opponents this weekend. Cornellians were matched every step of the way by a Port Patrick United side who clearly sensed an upset was on the cards as Chase Ziegenhorn rose above Dragora Steelhenge to cancel out Emil Eklund's opener. The Eagles weathered the storm though, and took away all three points, as Jade Irwin expertly picked out Christian Berg with a pinpoint freekick.

United took on a Marionville side who were pushing hard for Globe Cup spots after a slow start to the season. The Old Boys are unrecognisable now from the team they were three years ago, and the outcome of this match was no forgone conclusion. United got their lucky break with twenty minutes left, as a deflected Natalie Adams strike fell kindly for Regatta Aspenwood, who riffled in the only goal of the game.

Elsewhere: Mucusia will now feel they are sufficiently out of relegation trouble, with a 1-0 win at home to Snubbeak. Kings Park underlined yet more issues at Port James Athletic with a 2-0 win. And Kirk Preston were left ruing missed chances as they stumbled to a 0-0 draw with West Coast Warriors.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Six

Player: Line Stenberg -- Handon United
Stenberg had big boots to fill, stepping in for Schottia teammate Dilon Bánach in the United side. The former Kingsgrove girl has certainly added something to Jane Gullie's set up with her dynamic style of play and intricate range of passing.

Young Player: Robbie McSuol -- West Holbrookdale
McSuol was a young player with a point to prove after failing miserably last year with the Breakers. Back in a team with a more compatible style of play, the 20-year-old has finally been able to answer his many critics.

Manager: Jane Gullie -- Handon United
Handon United have had a fantastic month, progressing in the Champions' Cup and closing the gap at the top of the table in the process.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Lammerton              24   17   5   2    56   30  +26    56
 2 Handon United          24   16   3   5    47   27  +20    51
 3 Cornellians            24   15   5   4    44   23  +21    50
 4 Kirk Preston United    24   13   8   3    46   27  +19    47
 5 Port Sebastian         24   14   5   5    41   25  +16    47
 6 New Belfast Warriors   24   12   6   6    49   43   +6    42
 7 Port Patrick United    24   11   6   7    39   36   +3    39
 8 Marionville            24   10   8   6    38   23  +15    38
 9 New Island             24   12   1  11    36   37   −1    37
10 FC Soessch             24   11   3  10    29   26   +3    36
11 Dundee                 24   11   3  10    20   18   +2    36
12 Kings Park             24    8   9   7    42   40   +2    33
13 Port James Athletic    24    8   6  10    39   39    0    30
14 Central Stars          24    8   6  10    34   41   −7    30
15 West Holbrookdale      24    8   4  12    31   35   −4    28
16 Mucusia                24    6   5  13    22   40  −18    23
17 La Gorlions            24    4   3  17    28   53  −25    15
18 New Belfast Blues      24    3   5  16    26   46  −20    14
19 West Coast Warriors    24    2   5  17    18   41  −23    11
20 Snubbeak Rock          24    1   4  19    16   51  −35     7

by **Schottia** » Sun Mar 18, 2018 11:44 am

Matchday Twenty-Five - Thirty & UICA Knockouts

Champions' Cup -- Quarterfinal
(AUD) AC Izotz Zubia 3-2 a Handon United

Handon United are back in the Champions' Cup semis, as a late goal from Regatta Aspenwood gave them a sensational away goals win over AC Izotoz Zubia. For the first hour United really struggled, and at 3-1 they were in serious danger of getting brushed aside by the attacking threat the Audioslavians possessed. However, with fifteen minutes left to play, Natalie Adams picked Marc-André Onasi out on the right, allowing the Cenian to cut inside the full back and beautifully set up Aspenwood for the crucial second. The Schottic side are now just 180 minutes away from another shot at the Champions' Cup crown.

Globe Cup -- Round of Sixteen
(NGD) Olympic Nassau Bay 2-0 Marionville

Marionville could not replicate any of their heroics from the 95X however, as they were beaten 2-0 by Nassau Bay in New Gelderland. Circe Rosenthal missed a great chance to level the match just before half time, but the TL-West club deserved to go through.

Series B Champions' Cup -- Quarterfinal
West Holbrookdale 4-1 a Artiglieria (AUD)

It's not very often you win 4-1 and still go out, but that was the fate of West Holbrookdale in the last eight of the Series B. Grant Nean's side were absolutely superb, but an away goal saw them dumped from the competition.

SPL
Port James Athletic 3–2 Cornellians
Kings Park 5–6 Central Stars
New Belfast Blues 3–3 New Belfast Warriors
Dundee 1–2 Handon United
Marionville 0–0 New Island
Port Sebastian 1–2 Kirk Preston United
West Coast Warriors 0–3 West Holbrookdale
La Gorlions 0–0 Mucusia
Snubbeak Rock 3–1 Lammerton
FC Soessch 2–1 Port Patrick United

West Holbrookdale made it seven goals in two games, with Mirka Shitakuari taking her own personal tally to four in six days. The former Sunrise U21 international, who failed to crack the Handon United first team in six years there, adds some much-needed cutting edge to this Dale side. Benkè Oulonagawi was also on the score sheet, as the Vomsian turned a Kat Fell pass in round the back post. Grant Nean's side will be looking to launch an assault on the top ten now, and supposing they can keep the likes of McSuol, Fell, and Cha Won fit, that shouldn't be impossible. West Coast Warriors, on the other hand will already be thinking about next season, after what has been a disappointing year by anyone's measure.

This is probably the point in the season where we are going to get to see if Kirk Preston have the desire to take one of the Champions' Cup spots. After a phenomenal start Ross Killanen's players have fallen back a little, but they had a big chance to show what they were capable of as they travelled to Dyerton to face Port Sebastian. Veteran midfielder, Eoin Killanen was the star of the show, and the former Schottia star really bossed the midfield for the visitors. In what was a tight match, substitute John Wylie headed in a late goal to give the Holy men the win.

This is not the time Lammerton want to go to pieces, so a 3-1 defeat to dead-and-buried Snubbeak Rock will be of massive concern for manager Johnny Smith. It was like watching another side at points, as the Hornets who are currently chasing their first SPL title in 35 years looked as if they hadn't turned up. A second half double from Will Sneden saw Lammerton convincingly beaten.

In other matches: Tiferet Ashbrown and Mark Deleuze each scored hat tricks in an incredible eleven goal match at Lochely Green. A stoppage time Allie Valek goal gave Soessch all three points against Port Patrick. And Cornellians earned another blot on their copy book, as they lost 3-2 to managerless Athletic.

Cup Winners' Cup -- Quarterfinal
(EUR) Ulsa 1-0 Port Sebastian

It wasn't exactly the result Porty would have been hoping for, but against Ulsa, in Eura, a 1-0 defeat isn't bad. It's going to be hard to progress from here, but the next goal in the return leg will be very important.

SPL
Cornellians 5–3 FC Soessch
Port Patrick United 5–5 Snubbeak Rock
Lammerton 3–0 La Gorlions
Mucusia 0–3 West Coast Warriors
West Holbrookdale 1–0 Port Sebastian
Kirk Preston United 2–1 Marionville
New Island 0–0 Dundee
Handon United 4–1 New Belfast Blues
New Belfast Warriors 0–1 Kings Park
Central Stars 3–3 Port James Athletic

Cornellians recovered from a disastrous result the previous week, by beating FC Soessch 5-3 at Lochend Stadium. While he will have been pleased by a good over all performance, losing two goal late in the game will have irritated Reinhard Shale his side continue to blow hot and cold. On the face of it, the Nepharim's team tactics should be fairly simple: get the ball to Isla Sibučić and let her do the rest. True to form the 21-year-old Cosumarite star scored two in this match, the second of which, a fantastic solo effort, came at the end of an untouchable run into the box. Catherine Gryphon - taking over set-piece duties for the injured Jade Irwin - scored a belter of a freekick, and goals from Emil Eklund and Thomas Still ensured the Eagles had an unassailable lead. The introduction of substitutes, Adely Berger and John Fyfe meant that Cornellians finished the game with five Schottic players on the park, the most they have fielded in ten years in the SPL.

Lammerton got over their humiliating defeat the previous week, with a 3-0 win over relegation threatened La Gorlions. Robard Horvat was back in he Hornets side after suspension, and the old rumour that he is their unsung hero was likely proven right, as the Hornets were like a different team with him in the starting eleven. With the Cosumarite protecting the back four, Mars Alexandersson and Jasper Valaran were left to do what they do best, and the affect was kind of predictable. The three goal win actually doesn't tell the whole story, and Lammerton passed up a bundle of chances in the second half that would have made the score line pretty embarrassing for the Lions.

Handon United now will really fancy their chances of hauling Lammerton in during the closing stages. Jane Gullie's side ruthlessly put NBB to the sword in the 4-1 win at Harbour Hill Stadium, with a clinical display. Marc-André Onasi hit a pile drive of a goal after only ten minutes to get the ball rolling. Daniel Dostalok (2) and Soloman Johnson added another three in a game where United were never really tested much.

Elsewhere: Despite a Chase Ziegenhorn hattrick, the Breakers were held in a ten goal thriller at home to Snubbeak. Kirk Preston United keep themselves in the hunt with a 2-1 win over Marionville. And West Coast Warriors restored some pride with a 3-0 win at Mucusia

Cup Winners' Cup -- Quarterfinal
Port Sebastian 3-1 Ulsa (EUR)

Port Sebastian have always been a good cup side, and they proved their metal in a sensational 3-1 win over heavyweights, Ulsa. Porty were out the blocks quickly, and early goals from Avi Renning and Heron Kendall tipped the tie in their favour. It was game on as the Eurans pulled one back just before half time, but Roisin Carroll's 81st minute strike sent the Handon side through to the semis.

SPL
Central Stars 2–5 Cornellians
Port James Athletic 2–1 New Belfast Warriors
Kings Park 3–3 Handon United
New Belfast Blues 1–1 New Island
Dundee 1–0 Kirk Preston United
Marionville 5–2 West Holbrookdale
Port Sebastian 2–0 Mucusia
West Coast Warriors 0–1 Lammerton
La Gorlions 0–1 Port Patrick United
Snubbeak Rock 0–1 FC Soessch

A change of name couldn't bring Oskar Holst(einer) any extra fortune, as the Farf striker failed to find the net against Dundee. The matchday programme reviled that the 20-year-old recently discovered his name had been misspelled by an incompetent Registrar and from now would like to be referred to as Holsteiner. (Don't ask, just smile and nod.) In a poor game, Dundee had Vera Cummings to thanks for securing them an unlikely three points, as the Schottia cap fired in from the edge of the box for the only goal of the game.

While Cornellians have had their problems this season, scoring goals has certainly not been one of them. This time it was Central Stars who got the Kvanderwyk-Eklund-Sibučić treatment, as the front three ran riot. She might not score as much as the other two but there is no doubting Kathryn Kvanderwyk's importance as a supporting striker. Buyanese, Emil Eklund left with the match ball, as the Eagles scored five for a second week running.

Port Sebastian welcomed a determined Mucusia side to Dyerton Stadium, with the Port James club seemingly adamant that they weren't going to leave empty handed. The Eusabians defended doggedly, but second half goals from Alexander Alan and Heron Kendall kept the North Handon side in the title race.

In other results: Jessica Grey scored a hattrick in Marionville's 5-2 win over West Holbrookdale. Handon United were held to a 3-3 draw in the South Handon Derby, which put a dent in their title ambitions. And Lammerton left it late as the beat the Archers 1-0.

Champions' Cup -- Semi Final
Handon United 0–1 Crawford City FC (COS)

While United are still very much in this semi final tie, the smart money says they really needed to take something from the home leg to stand much chance of progression against Crawford City. Featuring Schottic captain Kim Coultan amongst others, the Elephants were a little too strong for United, as they ground out a 1-0 win.

SPL
Cornellians 5–4 Snubbeak Rock
FC Soessch 1–0 La Gorlions
Port Patrick United 2–0 West Coast Warriors
Lammerton 0–0 Port Sebastian
Mucusia 0–4 Marionville
West Holbrookdale 1–3 Dundee
Kirk Preston United 1–1 New Belfast Blues
New Island 0–2 Kings Park
Handon United 3–0 Port James Athletic
New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Central Stars

Handon United flexed their muscles ahead of their big Champions' Cup decider with a big win over a hopeless looking Athletic. The Seasiders are still without a manager and there are signs that the fans are beginning to get frustrated. Former midfielder, Mark Kelman, has been in interim charge and the board have hinted that the ex Cornellians man could stay in that role until the end of the season. Port James arguably started the stronger, but after Natalie Adams threaded Daniel Dostalok through for the opener, it was one-way traffic. Athletic were forced to defend as if their life were dependent on it, and to be fair, Claire Beresford may well have been person of the match. Mark-André Onasi and Line Stenberg added another couple of goals in the second half to round off a convincing win.

Marionville have picked the right time to start scoring goals, with the league now entering a critical phase. Mucusia were their latest victims and the Old Boys looked clinical and decisive as they sliced through the Port James side's defence time after time in the second half. Suilven Roagart opened the scoring as he met a Vojnomir Nikolic cross with twenty minutes on the clock, Circe Rosenthal then doubled their lead just before half time, taking a lofted Dawn Morham ball on the half volley. Mucusia were sinking without a trace in the second half, and as Jessica Grey got her name on the score sheet it looked to be all over. Scott Del Barbaroa added to their tally once more though, skipping a challenge from David Moffat before tucking away his fourth goal of the season.

Snubbeak Rock gave it everything they had against Cornellians, and putting four goals past the champs is no easy task. Sadly though, despite their frantic efforts, they were edged out in a nine goal spectacle. It's probably emblematic of the difference between these sides that when the Eagles were struggling they were able to bring on Echani international Mershawn Mercury who utterly transformed the game. With the Rock 4-3 up with twenty minutes to go, the left-winger delivered crosses for John Fyfe and Jade Irwin who tucked them both away to keep Cornellians snapping at the heels of United and Lammerton.

Elsewhere: Lammerton and Porty were giving nothing away in a match that ended 0-0, and did little to help either team. Kings Park recorded victory over a sluggish looking New Island side in South Berwick. And A Sett Horn double helped Dundee to a 3-1 win away to West Holbrookdale.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Seven

Player: Isla Sibučić -- Cornellians
Among the awards yet again, and you can imagine it wont be the last time the Cosumarite receives recognition for her efforts. She skips, dances, and zips past her opponents with a ease that is kind of alarming, and is cool as a cucumber in front of goal.

Young Player: Dawn Morham -- Marionville
One of Schottic football's rising stars right now, Morham is likely to feature for the national team in a big way before long. Brilliant over-lapping going forward, and assured and resolute in defence.

Manager: Barry Gorman -- FC Soessch
It's been a good month for a Soessch side who seem to be getting there eventually. You've got to give some credit to Barry Gorman, be made some bold decisions, and isn't afraid to change things around when they're not working.

Champions' Cup -- Semi Final
(COS) Crawford City 1-0 Handon United

Despite throwing everything at it, United trudge out of UICA competition this week. After Crawford City got their noses in front, two goals always seemed unlikely for United, who were sadly lacking in front of goal.

SPL
New Belfast Warriors 0–1 Cornellians
Central Stars 0–1 Handon United
Port James Athletic 1–0 New Island
Kings Park 6–3 Kirk Preston United
New Belfast Blues 4–2 West Holbrookdale
Dundee 1–2 Mucusia
Marionville 3–2 Lammerton
Port Sebastian 1–1 Port Patrick United
West Coast Warriors 0–2 FC Soessch
La Gorlions 4–1 Snubbeak Rock

Kirk Preston are now toiling to keep pace with what looks increasing like a breakaway top-three, as their lack of depth appears to be costing them. Eoin Killanen was out with a sprained ankle, and Oskar Holsteiner was suspended as they travelled to Lochely to take on Kings Park. This was always going to be a hard match, and the attacking threat that the Royals possess was the difference on the day. The benefit of having an experienced goal scorer, first and foremost, in Dejan Corvell has become apparent a few time already this season, and the Nepharim scored two more in this match. Leopoldo Ramirez and Matilda Weiss looked dangerous going forward for Holy Men, but with Kings Park netting six times, there was no way for the once title contenders to come out of this one alive.

New Belfast Blues took a big step towards safety this week, picking up a rare win at home to First Division Champions, West Holbrookdale. None of us predicted the Blues to toil this year, after we bigged them up in the preseason; yet Chris Okywä's side have inexplicably slid backwards. The fans haven't been shy in leaving a chunk of the blame at Lasse Schnarnberg's door, as the former Brinemouth man has failed to get amongst the goals in his second season at the club. The big Nepharim was much better in this match though, and got his head to a couple of cross as he made a big contribution to the 4-2 win

It's kind of excruciating right now, watching Lammerton being slowly hunted down and devoured by the wolves that are Handon United and Cornellians. The Hornets were finally reeled in this week after they failed to rise to the fight in Marionville. The Old Boys deserved to win, make no doubt about it; but with so much at stake, Johnny Smith will be annoyed his players couldn't find that extra gear. Marionville, conversely, seem to be in the ascendency, and with the technically ability they have throughout their side, they look certain to finish highly once more.

Elsewhere: Cornellians were cool as you like; biding their time in their 1-0 victory over the Whalers in New Belfast. Handon United might be out of the Champions' Cup, but they found themselves top of the league, thanks to a JK Cottle goal in their match with Central Stars. And FC Soessch are another team who look like they are closing in on the UICA places, Allie Vacek and Groaré Sasca scored the goals in their 2-0 win over West Coast Warriors.

SPL
Cornellians 4–1 La Gorlions
Snubbeak Rock 2–2 West Coast Warriors
FC Soessch 3–0 Port Sebastian
Port Patrick United 3–3 Marionville
Lammerton 2–2 Dundee
Mucusia 1–2 New Belfast Blues
West Holbrookdale 2–3 Kings Park
Kirk Preston United 0–3 Port James Athletic
New Island 5–2 Central Stars
Handon United 1–0 New Belfast Warriors

Cornellians moved up to second this week with a 4-1 win at home to La Gorlions. The Lions, by contrast, suddenly look in a spot of bother, cast adrift third from bottom; and you could see the pain etched on the face of manager Jaga Avelione on this bitterly cold March day in Lochend. There was a whisp of snow in the air as the Eagles strode to a confident victory over a side who were utterly out of ideas. Kathryn Kvanderwyk dug out an excellent individual goal for the opener, with Emil Eklund converting a Mershawn Mercury cross for the second. Isla Sibučić chipped the outrushing keeper for a third, only for Andrya Novkovic to pull one back with a deflected effort. Jade Irwin came off the bench to score the fourth, with a looping strike from the edge of the dee.

FC Soessch are really going steady at the moment, with a 3-0 win at home to Port Sebastian suggesting that they are well and truly up to speed. Groaré Sasca was once again instrumental in Die Rote Teufel's victory, as the Farf attacker caused no end of problems for Porty. David Hughes is exactly the man you want up front when it comes to converting chances, and the 30-year-old scored either side of half time. Melanie Ünterhausen also got herself on the score sheet, converting a Laura Smith pass from a tight angle, to add to a miserable afternoon for Nicolas Lars' side.

Johnny Smith's old side came back to haunt him, as Dundee held Lammerton to a 2-2 draw. The result knocks the Hornets down to third, but with a big gap between them and fourth place Kirk Preston. The long-time league leaders went ahead twice in this match, with goals from Elspeth Glendening and Mars Alexandersson, but on each occasion, defensive frailties were their undoing.

In other matches: Kings Park continue to string the wins together as they look to set up another shot at Globe Cup football; Sendoa was the star on this occasion. Marionville and Port Patrick United played out a full-blooded 3-3 draw. And Kirk Preston looked all out of ideas without Eoin Killanen as they lost 3-0 to Athletic at home.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Handon United          30   21   4   5    61   32  +29    67
 2 Cornellians            30   20   5   5    66   36  +30    65
 3 Lammerton              30   19   7   4    65   38  +27    64
 4 Kirk Preston United    30   15   9   6    54   40  +14    54
 5 Port Sebastian         30   15   7   8    45   32  +13    52
 6 FC Soessch             30   16   3  11    41   32   +9    51
 7 Marionville            30   13  10   7    54   32  +22    49
 8 Port Patrick United    30   13   9   8    52   47   +5    48
 9 Kings Park             30   12  10   8    62   54   +8    46
10 New Belfast Warriors   30   13   7  10    54   51   +3    46
11 Dundee                 30   13   5  12    28   25   +3    44
12 Port James Athletic    30   12   7  11    51   48   +3    43
13 New Island             30   13   4  13    42   43   −1    43
14 West Holbrookdale      30   10   4  16    42   50   −8    34
15 Central Stars          30    9   7  14    47   61  −14    34
16 Mucusia                30    7   6  17    25   52  −27    27
17 New Belfast Blues      30    5   8  17    38   58  −20    23
18 La Gorlions            30    5   4  21    33   63  −30    19
19 West Coast Warriors    30    3   6  21    23   51  −28    15
20 Snubbeak Rock          30    2   6  22    31   69  −38    12

Schottic Cup -- Quarterfinall

FC Döllar 2–1 Bara Waves
Port James Athletic 0–1 Kirk Preston United
Lammerton 2–0 Port Sebastian
West Coast Warriors 2–1 Kings Park

by **Schottia** » Tue Mar 20, 2018 1:00 am

Matchday Thirty-one - Thirty-seven

SPL
Handon United 1–3 Cornellians
New Belfast Warriors 0–0 New Island
Central Stars 0–1 Kirk Preston United
Port James Athletic 2–2 West Holbrookdale
Kings Park 3–0 Mucusia
New Belfast Blues 3–2 Lammerton
Dundee 1–0 Port Patrick United
Marionville 0–0 FC Soessch
Port Sebastian 6–2 Snubbeak Rock
West Coast Warriors 2–1 La Gorlions

First took on second, as the teams entered the home straight, in a fixture that would likely be pivotal in deciding the final outcome of the SPL season. It was advantage Cornellians, as the reigning champs travelled to Harbour Hill to face Handon United, finding a big performance right when they needed it most. Despite United having the better of the opening exchanges, it was the Lochend side who broke the deadlock. Jade Irwin's back-heel for Kathryn Kvanderwyk was ruthlessly finished off as the team captain showed great determination in holding off Brix Hamilton. United launched wave after wave of attack, but Cornellians put in their best defensive performance of the season so far, especially in the wide areas where they kept the front two of Regatta Aspenwood and Marc-André Onasi quiet. Catherine Gryphon was another player who was strong as an ox, and it was the Brenecian who thumped the ball forward to Isla Sibučić as Cornellians opened up a two-goal lead. Just after the restart United's pressure paid off, as Daniel Dostalok converted from a Rachel Hellion pass to give the home side a lifeline. You just had one of those feeling that this was going to be Cornellians day, however, and that turned out to be the case as Irwin was once again the provider. The Nephara cap whipped in a vicious cross, which was met by Emil Eklund to ensure their side climbed to the top of the table.

Away from the excitement in Handon there was yet more drama, as Lammerton missed the chance to move back up to second with defeat to NBB. Knowing the result from the early kick off, it was a fantastic opportunity for Hornets to move to within a point of the top. Sadly however, Johnny Smith's players catastrophically failed to rise to the occasion as they lost to a team current battling for its survival. The Hornets found the back of the net twice, but were left stunned with four minutes to go, as Charlotte Ünterhausen's long-range effort took a wicked deflection in past Kaige MacCílarook.

Port Sebastian desperately needed to make up points this weekend, and with some of the sides above them slipping up, a home game against the bottom place side was the perfect opportunity. Snubbeak Rock looked decent going forward, but could offer nothing at the back, with Eloisa Purinton scoring three en route to a 6-2 victory for Nicolas Lars' team.

Elsewhere: Kirk Preston keep stayed in the Champions' Cup places with a 1-0 win away to Central Stars. Kings Park looked on top form as they put three past Mucusia for no reply. And La Gorlions now find themselves in serious trouble following a 2-1 defeat to West Coast Warriors.

Cup Winners' Cup -- Semi-Final
(NGD) Olympic Nassau Bay 0-1 Port Sebastian

Port Sebastian put one foot in the Cup Winners' Cup final, with a 1-0 win over Olympic Nassau Bay in New Gelderland. The Handon side kept thing solid and didn't lose their heads as they came under a fair bit of pressure in the second half. A first half strike from Colin Loweson gave Porty a crucial away goal to defend when the sides meet at Dyerton in a week's time.

SPL
Cornellians 1–0 West Coast Warriors
La Gorlions 2–1 Port Sebastian
Snubbeak Rock 0–2 Marionville
FC Soessch 0–0 Dundee
Port Patrick United 3–3 New Belfast Blues
Lammerton 2–1 Kings Park
Mucusia 2–1 Port James Athletic
West Holbrookdale 1–0 Central Stars
Kirk Preston United 2–3 New Belfast Warriors
New Island 2–2 Handon United

It won't go down as their best performance of the season, but with United falling short in South Berwick, one would imagine Cornellians have their first finger tip on the SPL trophy. Perhaps there was a little bit of a hangover from the win the previous week, but the Eagles never really found their A-game against West Coast Warriors. Despite playing in front of an eager home crowd, Reinhard Shale's players found themselves bogged down in a midfield battle for much of the game. Superior possession played off in the end, however, as the most fouled player in the league, Isla Sibučić, was brought down in the area with 72 minutes on the board. Jade Irwin stepped up and calmly side-footed the ball into the back of the net for her ninth goal of the season.

Lammerton shot back up to second, but frustratingly, still four points behind the leaders. Kings Park are not easy team to go up against, and an end-to-end first half gave the Hornets a good indication of what they might be up against. Both sides passed up chances before Kaytlyne Victoriane volleyed home a Mars Alexandersson cross to open the scoring. Meghan Hartsdown hit a 23-metre strike to level the game midway through the first half, but Raquel Naeher got in behind the back line to slide the ball under the keeper for 2-1, moments from the end.

Teams seem to be faltering left, right and centre at the moment, so Marionville were able to take advantage with a very composed 2-0 win at rock bottom Snubbeak. Jessica Grey's rise in Schottic football has been extraordinary, and the Osarian striker looked top-class once again, as her two first half goals set her side comfortably en route to victory.

Elsewhere: Handon United's draw with New Island saw them drop down to third. Their city rivals, Porty, were left with in disbelief as the lost 2-1 to La Gorlions. And Kirk Preston missed a golden chance as they lost 3-2 at home to neighbours, the Warriors.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Eight

Player: Sendoa -- Kings Park
So often the one overlooked in the Royals side, Sendoa finally gets some much-deserved recognition. The Cenian attacker, turned central midfielder is the one that makes Kings Park tick; fighting hard in the midfield, always look to kick-start the next attack.

Young Player: Thomas Still -- Cornellians
It's been good first season in the senior team for this young player who is tipped to go far. Cornellians have a lousy track record in bringing players through the youth system, a fact that will only increase the pressure on the industrious young midfielder's shoulders.

Manager: Reinhard Shale -- Cornellians
Cornellians are back top of the league, and providing they can stay there, it will go down as a sensational turn around for the Lochend side. Back to back titles, given the strength of the current field, would be a great achievement for Reinhard Shale.

Cup Winners' Cup -- Semi-Final
Port Sebastian 1-0 Olympic Nassau Bay (NGD)

After a couple of good attempts in recent years, Port Sebastian finally made it to the final of an international domestic football tournament, with a second 1-0 win over Gelderlish side, Olympic Nassau Bay. Porty must have been nervous coming into this game, but it certainly didn't show as they went about booking their place in the final. The ongoing injury problems for captain Eloisa Purinton meant there was a start for teenage striker Keeva Crowe, who did well to keep her head in a match of this magnitude. Carrying a lead from the first leg, Heron Kendall's goal on fifty-one minutes secured the win for the Handon side.

SPL
New Island 1–1 Cornellians
Handon United 4–2 Kirk Preston United
New Belfast Warriors 2–1 West Holbrookdale
Central Stars 6–2 Mucusia
Port James Athletic 2–3 Lammerton
Kings Park 2–3 Port Patrick United
New Belfast Blues 0–2 FC Soessch
Dundee 4–1 Snubbeak Rock
Marionville 2–1 La Gorlions
Port Sebastian 0–0 West Coast Warriors

Kirk Preston's Legs have clearly gone, as we enter the last few matches. While they looked like world-beaters just a few months back, they have most certainly been second best in the last couple of weeks. In fairness, they came up against a Handon United side who knew defeat would all but spell the end for their title ambitions, and looked like there weren't going to let that happen. Both domestically and in the Champions' Cup, United have been devastating in attack so far this season, and Regatta Aspenwood in particular caused a lot of problems for the Holy Men. In addition to her goal midway through the first forty-five, the Nephara international set up second half goals for Daniel Dostalok and Magdalen Demetrius. Oskar Holsteiner and Leopoldo Ramirez both played well for Kirk Preston in attack, but there was little the front line could do in the face of the four goals United chipped in.

There was another fantastic match in south Handon this weekend as Kings Park and Port Patrick took to the field at Lochely Green. It was a case of now or never for both teams, with a win a must if they were going to insert themselves into the battle for the UICA spots. Whitney Kelly's driving run through the middle allowed her to set up Chase Ziegenhorn for the opener, before the Chromatik added a second herself with a low strike from just inside the area. Kings Park worked hard and got themselves level with goals from Dejan Corvell and Billy McCorralie, however, Chimera Moxham claimed all three points for the Breakers with a stoppage time strike.

Lammerton won by a similar score line in Port James as top three look to be more or less neck and neck for the run in. It's been a real credit to the Hornets that they've kept pace with the big spending duo, and they are still very much in this. Jasper Valaran was a different class in the midfield, as the Cenian internationalist pulled all the shots in this weekends 3-2 win.

In other matches: Cornellians took their eye off the ball as a late Aya Bernman goal meant they had to settle for a share of the points on the New Island. Central Stars recorded a huge 6–2 win over Mucusia, proving that they might have a future in this league after all. And New Belfast Blues might not quite be out of danger yet, as they lost 2-0 at home to FC Soessch.

SPL
Cornellians 2–2 Port Sebastian
West Coast Warriors 0–1 Marionville
La Gorlions 1–1 Dundee
Snubbeak Rock 2–1 New Belfast Blues
FC Soessch 1–1 Kings Park
Port Patrick United 1–0 Port James Athletic
Lammerton 3–2 Central Stars
Mucusia 4–0 New Belfast Warriors
West Holbrookdale 1–3 Handon United
Kirk Preston United 1–0 New Island

Cornellians and Porty met at Lochend Stadium both desperately looking for a win. Naturally, neither side went home happy, as they played out a particularly unhelpful draw. Some of the hype perhaps went to young Thomas Still's head, as the Cornellians teenager had a very poor game up against Colin Loweson and was hooked at half time. Cornellians went ahead twice with goals from Isla Sibučić, and Emil Eklund, but never really looked like building on their lead. Inevitably they were pegged back twice, as Porty always looked dangerous on the counter, with Alexander Alan particularly effective throughout. Cornellians have now thrown away a very strong position, and at this late stage it might well be fatal.

This was a big opportunity for Lammerton, and with the New Lammerton Derby to contend with, the pressure could not have been much higher. Central Stars have looked good this season, staying well clear of the relegation fight in their first season in the top flight. Chris Pilum's players looked desperate to make an impact by keeping their city rivals off top spot, and came close to achieving their goal. This was a match between two fast, creative sides, but it came down to fire power in the end, and on that front, Lammerton just had the edge. Ezequiel Marchiondo was man of the match, and had a hand in setting up two of his side's goals.

In could be argued that in recent weeks the Breakers are finally getting the best out of record signing Chimera Moxham; and the teenager most certainly had her swagger back in her side's 1-0 win over Port James Athletic. The Handon side are still in with a shout of a Globe Cup place, and need to keep the wins coming. A lay-off from Whitney Kelly allowed Nepharim, Moxham, to power the only goal of the game past countryman Brendan Hammer with ten minutes left on the clock.

In other matches: Kirk Preston clung on in there as a Matilda Weiss goal gave them a 1-0 win over New Island. Handon United put in a classy performance as they brushed West Holbrookdale aside in a 3-1 win. And, what a difference a week makes, as Mucusia were unrecognisable from the side that lost 6-2 in their last match; the Eusabians defeated the Whalers 4-0.

SPL
Kirk Preston United 3–3 Cornellians
New Island 0–1 West Holbrookdale
Handon United 2–0 Mucusia
New Belfast Warriors 2–2 Lammerton
Central Stars 0–0 Port Patrick United
Port James Athletic 2–3 FC Soessch
Kings Park 3–2 Snubbeak Rock
New Belfast Blues 1–1 La Gorlions
Dundee 2–2 West Coast Warriors
Marionville 1–0 Port Sebastian

Handon United went three points clear at the top ahead of their important visit to Lammerton next week. Both the Hornets and Cornellian picked up draws as the pressure looks to be affecting everyone at the moment. United undoubtedly had the easier fixture, however, and made them most of it, as the routinely dispatched of a substandard Mucusia side. After their amazing win over the Warriors last week, you might have thought another upset was in the offing; but after the first twenty minutes, it was obvious that wasn't going to be the case. Daniel Dostlok was brilliantly denied by Diego, and Regatta Aspenwood saw a shot from a narrow angle go just wide as United cranked up the early pressure. United eventually broke down the opposition after Natalie Adams picked out Marc-André Onasi on the edge of the area, who in turn cut inside Sebastian Groundal before drilling his shot into far corner of the goal. United kept the tempo high, and were rewarded with a another goal early in the second half; this time it was Aspenwood who got her name on the score sheet after being picked out by some great vision from Dostalok.

Cornellians just can't seem to buy a win right now, and the 26 million they spent on players this summer would suggest they gave it their best shot too. Kirk Preston are still clinging onto a UICA spot at the moment, and you could tell from the way they showed Cornellians no respect whatsoever, that they were adamant on holding on to their position. You wouldn't think Eoin Killanen was 35, judging by the way he has been playing, and Ross will be quietly hopeful that he can talk his son into staying on for another season. Despite scoring three goals - including an absolute thunderbolt from right-back Maeon Vlahos - the best the Eagles could manage was a draw, after a 90 minute goal from Leopoldo Ramirez earned the home side a point.

Had Marionville started the season like this, then there may well have been four in the title race. As it is, the Old Boys are still in the hunt for the fourth Champions' Cup spot, and on this evidence, would probably be favourites. Port Sebastian didn't perform badly, but the fact that the visitors were outplayed for much of the second half perhaps points to a change in the SPL running order. Pablo Altamirano burst into the box before cutting back for Circe Rosenthal who scored the only goal of the game.

Elsewhere in the country: FC Soessch now look set for another shot at the Globe Cup, as an Allie Vacek double gave victory at Port James Athletic. Lammerton missed a golden chance to go top next week after they were held by New Belfast Warriors. And a delightful goal form Robbie McSuol give the Dale a win at New Island.

SPL
Cornellians 1–1 Marionville
Port Sebastian 2–0 Dundee
West Coast Warriors 1–2 New Belfast Blues
La Gorlions 4–3 Kings Park
Snubbeak Rock 2–4 Port James Athletic
FC Soessch 2–1 Central Stars
Port Patrick United 1–3 New Belfast Warriors
Lammerton 3–1 Handon United
Mucusia 3–1 New Island
West Holbrookdale 3–2 Kirk Preston United

Lammerton went top on goal-difference with a stunning win over Handon United at the City Ground. There can't have been many Hornets fans who slept that night, after their team put in a brilliant performance to place their destiny back in their own hands. The home team were in the driver's seat from the off, as Mars Alexandersson stung the palms of Shjegrzh Na'Kefir with a twisting strike from well outside the box. The Hornets took the lead shortly after, thanks to a beautifully weighted pass from Jasper Valaran, picking out Kaytlyne Victoriane who duly applied the finish. Dan Renkart scored his first goal of the season as Lammerton continued to pull away, an with United in full retreat, Elspeth Glendening dealt the decisive blow after getting on the end of a Raquel Naeher cross. Hiroyo Nunez pulled one back for Champions' Cup semi-finalist, but there was no disguising the fact that this was Lammerton's day.

Relegated La Gorlions picked up an unlikely win over Kings Park, but the old adage, too little too late, springs to mind. It's going to be a strange to see an SPL line up without the Lions, who have been in the top flight since the 1960s. Since money has began to play a bigger role in Schottia football, they have experienced a slow decline, and the only hope will be that they can follow Marionville's example, and come back all the stronger. Jago Avelione's fate is not yet known, with the board expected to wait until the end of the season before deciding whether or not he is the right man to lead the fight back. Captain, Andrya Novkovic, is a player they need to hold onto whatever happens, and that was very much evident in her performance this week against the Royals.

FC Soessch continue to finish strongly, as the New Island side are now up to equal fourth with a 2-1 win over Central Stars. If they are able to leapfrog Marionville it will be the sides strongest finish in a number of years; and Champions' Cup football may well help them attract the kind of players they need to improve. Gannon Park was packed to the rafters as the side worked hard and ground out a good result against their newly promoted opponents.

Elsewhere: Cornellians' search for a win continued as they were held 1-1 by Marionville. Port Sebastian defeated Dundee 2-0 with goals from Heron Kendall and Keeva Crowe. And Mucusia continued to finish the season strongly, with a 3-1 victory over New Island.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month Nine

Player: Melanie Ünterhausen -- FC Soessch
It's been a pretty convincing return to the SPL, and mixed-football, for Melanie Ünterhausen after a number of years in the Fleftic women's league. There have been no signs of rust, as the former Döllar and Kelsy Merchants attacker seems to have slotted back in way to the more familiar surrounding sof her hometown club.

Young Player: Laura Carrow -- Marionville
A player very often overlooked in the Marionville midfield, as she is always under the shadow of her more attacking countrywoman, Circe Rosenthal. She might not have the physical strength or the technical ability of some of the other midfielders in the league, but what she does have is work-rate by the bucket load, and a real desire to get in the face of her opponents.

Manager: Jack Cordoba -- Marionville
A good month for Marionville at a critical time. They've done well this season, consolidating their position in the top fight and giving the squad time to settle. Next season will be crucial in building a direction of travel.

SPL
West Holbrookdale 0–0 Cornellians
Kirk Preston United 3–5 Mucusia
New Island 2–1 Lammerton
Handon United 4–1 Port Patrick United
New Belfast Warriors 0–0 FC Soessch
Central Stars 3–0 Snubbeak Rock
Port James Athletic 2–0 La Gorlions
Kings Park 2–1 West Coast Warriors
New Belfast Blues 1–1 Port Sebastian
Dundee 2–3 Marionville

Lammerton are going to learn the hard way that you just can't afford slip-ups like this if you want to win the SPL title. With the race so evenly poised there was no room for error as league leaders travelled to face New Island, but unfortunately they didn't have their striking boots on, as they squandered a series of first half chances. The Hornets went up the tunnel a goal down after a Bob Ingleburn caught them off guard. Lammerton battled back to pull level, as Raquel Naeher pounced on a Jasper Valaran cross. However, Ramone Scotta thumped the ball home from close range to leave the visitors praying for a miracle.

The way Handon United polished off a normally very resilient Port Patrick would have made you think the final destination of the SPL trophy was never in doubt. Obviously it's not mathematically a forgone conclusion, but based on this performance, one would imagine Jane Gullie will be celebrating her third title in four years. Daniel Dostalok scored a hattrick, as United made the Breakers look distinctly average with a crushing performance, where the team's renewed synergy was very much on display.

Marionville jumped up to fourth spot with a 3-2 win away to Dundee. If they could cling on, it would replicate their achievements from last season, with added incentive that it now comes with a ticket for Champions' Cup football. Young player of the month Laura Carrow worked her toes to the bone in the midfield, and there were also impressive displays from wing-backs, Pablo Altamirano, and Dawn Morham in a good all round performance.

Elsewhere: Cornellians are hobbling across the line now, and while there is no danger of finishing any lower than third, they will likely look back on this and wonder what might have been. Kirk Preston find themselves in a spot of bother going into the final week with a 5-3 defeat to Mucusia. And FC Soessch will find it hard to claim fourth spot now, after a 0-0 draw with the Whalers.

.                         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Handon United          37   25   5   7    78   44  +34    80
 2 Lammerton              37   23   8   6    81   51  +30    77
 3 Cornellians            37   22  10   5    77   44  +33    76
 4 Marionville            37   18  12   7    64   36  +28    66
 5 FC Soessch             37   19   7  11    49   36  +13    64
 6 Port Sebastian         37   17  10  10    57   40  +17    61
 7 Kirk Preston United    37   17  10  10    68   58  +10    61
 8 New Belfast Warriors   37   16  10  11    64   61   +3    58
 9 Kings Park             37   15  11  11    77   67  +10    56
10 Port Patrick United    37   15  11  11    61   60   +1    56
11 Dundee                 37   15   8  14    38   34   +4    53
12 Port James Athletic    37   14   8  15    64   61   +3    50
13 New Island             37   14   7  16    48   52   −4    49
14 West Holbrookdale      37   13   6  18    51   59   −8    45
15 Central Stars          37   11   8  18    59   70  −11    41
16 Mucusia                37   11   6  20    41   68  −27    39
17 New Belfast Blues      37    7  11  19    49   70  −21    32
18 La Gorlions            37    7   6  24    43   75  −32    27
19 West Coast Warriors    37    4   8  25    29   60  −31    20
20 Snubbeak Rock          37    3   6  28    40   92  −52    15

Schottic Cup -- Semi-Final

Kirk Preston United 0–1 FC Döllar
Lammerton 5–2 West Coast Warriors

by **Schottia** » Tue Mar 20, 2018 12:33 pm

Matchday Thirty-Eight & Awards

SPL
Cornellians 0–1 Dundee
Marionville 5–4 New Belfast Blues
Port Sebastian 0–0 Kings Park
West Coast Warriors 0–1 Port James Athletic
La Gorlions 2–0 Central Stars
Snubbeak Rock 0–2 New Belfast Warriors
FC Soessch 1–3 Handon United
Port Patrick United 0–0 New Island
Lammerton 1–0 Kirk Preston United
Mucusia 3–4 West Holbrookdale

There was still a chance going into the final round of fixtures that Lammerton could spring something, but after Marc-André Onasi put United ahead with only eight minutes on the clock, there was only ever going to be one outcome. The Cenian has been a big player for Jane Gullie this season, in spite of many critics questioning whether he would handle the move to the SPL. He and United's other summer signing, Line Stenberg, had big boots to fill this year, but both have more than risen to the challenge. Soessch are another side who have had a good season, but they were second best in every department in this match, with Handon United looking a half a metre sharper in every area of the pitch. Daniel Dostalk added a second, holding off Ben Ross to guide home a Regatta Aspenwood cross, and the big Mercedinian's goal was a cue for the celebrations to start. Dostalok is another player who has proven his worth this season, particularly in the big matches. Soessch did manage to set hearts fluttering after Groaré Sasca pulled a goal back with a freekick just inside the second half, but United responded well, and never looked like conceding another two. Hordern, Hamilton, Cottle, and Fox have all been fantastic at the back this season, and with Rachel Hellion acting as the first line of defence, their wasn’t too much for Shjegrzh Na'Kefir to deal with. Nepharim winger, Regatta Aspenwood, burst free of the home defence to power a low strike into the bottom corner with ten minutes left, to put the result beyond question. This is title number three for Jane Gullie, as the manager seems to have established the Handon side firmly in the driver's seat.

Lammerton welcomed Kirk Preston to the City Ground, knowing that only a big win, and or a United collapse would see them lift the title. The Hornets have been very strong throughout the last decade, but given the standard of opposition this year, it has easily been their best season of the UICA era. Their opponents, Kirk Preston, have come on leaps and bounds in the last three years, and indeed, it wasn't so long ago that they looked like legitimate title challengers in their own right. John van Cleef headed the only goal of the game from a corner kick, but there was to be no avalanche, as Lammerton were forced to settle for second. Both this sides will undoubtedly face the challenge of holding onto their players who will have put themselves in the shop window. Lammerton wide girls, Raquel Naeher and Kaytlyne Victoriane have looked absolutely world class at points this season, while some of Jasper Valaran's midfield play has been simply breath taking. Similarly for the Holy Men, Farf striker Oskar Holsteiner, and wingers Afton Prichard and Matilda Weiss will now be in high demand. It's probably not the finish either side was dreaming off at the half way stage, but second and seventh respectively will have exceeded their initial expectations.

La Gorlions bowed out of the SPL with a 2-0 win over Central Stars, after nearly seventy years of top flight football. With Hollin's relegation the previous year, and Marionville before that, it seems that the SPL perennials can no longer take their status for granted, and money appears to now be a bigger factor than ever before. It's no longer the case that a good youth system and a plucky attitude can have you challenging at the top, these days you need at least a $10,000,000 war chest to make any inroads. Kirsten Gemmill and Brandon Randold scored what may well be their last goals for the club, as the inevitable clear out work will soon commence. Jago Avelione announced that he will in fact the standing down as manager, with immediate affect, as he no longer sees himself as the man to take the club forward.

In other results: Jessica Grey and Circe Rosenthal scored two each as Marionville came through a bruising match with the Blues to secure fourth spot. Sett Horn's goal for Dundee meant that Cornellians miserable end to the season was complete. The 0-0 draw between Port Sebastian and Kings Park summed up sides' season in a way, and both will be disappointed with their final league standing. And West Holbrookdale's 4-3 win over Mucusia maybe hints at a brighter future for the newly promoted side, who unveiled plans for stadium expansion over the summer.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Handon United          38   26   5   7    81   45  +36    83 SPL Champions; Champions' Cup
 2 Lammerton              38   24   8   6    82   51  +31    80 Champions' Cup; Cup Winners' Cup
 3 Cornellians            38   22  10   6    77   45  +32    76 Champions' Cup
 4 Marionville            38   19  12   7    69   40  +29    69 Champions' Cup
 5 FC Soessch             38   19   7  12    50   39  +11    64 Globe Cup
 6 Port Sebastian         38   17  11  10    57   40  +17    62 Globe Cup
 7 Kirk Preston United    38   17  10  11    68   59   +9    61 Globe Cup
 8 New Belfast Warriors   38   17  10  11    66   61   +5    61
 9 Kings Park             38   15  12  11    77   67  +10    57
10 Port Patrick United    38   15  12  11    61   60   +1    57
11 Dundee                 38   16   8  14    39   34   +5    56
12 Port James Athletic    38   15   8  15    65   61   +4    53
13 New Island             38   14   8  16    48   52   −4    50
14 West Holbrookdale      38   14   6  18    55   62   −7    48
15 Central Stars          38   11   8  19    59   72  −13    41
16 Mucusia                38   11   6  21    44   72  −28    39
17 New Belfast Blues      38    7  11  20    53   75  −22    32
18 La Gorlions            38    8   6  24    45   75  −30    30 Relegated
19 West Coast Warriors    38    4   8  26    29   61  −32    20 Relegated
20 Snubbeak Rock          38    3   6  29    40   94  −54    15 Relegated

Player of Year:
The main, player, young player, and manager award winners are selected from a long-list of ten, which is created by the responsible members at the SPL committee. The eventual winner is voted for by prominent members of the Schottic footballing community.

1st: Kaytlyne Victoriane -- Lammerton

There were a couple of rumours circulating that if Lammerton hadn't made the Globe Cup this season, then Victoriane would have been off... Thank god they did, because the Chromatika international has been an absolute inspiration. Having someone like her, who can both create and score goals in the forward line has been so important to the Hornets this season, particularly in the early third. The 21 goals Victoriane has scored this season are made all the more impressive by the fact that she arguably isn't playing in her best position. While more of an out an out striker, her natural pace and guile have allowed the Chromatik to excel as an extremely effective right-wing-forward. Victoriane has been knocking on the door of this award ever since she arrived in Schottia, and it will be yet another highlight in what has been an incredible twelve months for the player.

2nd: Isla Sibučić -- Cornellians

Last year's Player of The Year, Sibučić would have been many peoples' favourite to scoop the award once again. Certainly in terms of the visual spectacle, the 21-year-old ticks all the boxes with her unstoppable darting runs, and penchant for chipping the keeper from impossible angles. With Catherine Gryphon's arrival in the summer, the Cosumarite has been given much more or a free role to roam forward and join the attack. That much has been evident in the 25 goals she scored, which saw her claim the Golden Boot this year. Sibučić is now the first player in SPL history to have won the Player of The Year, Young Player of The Year, and Golden Boot - and all before she's even turned 22.

3rd: Louis Hordern -- Handon United

The only home-grown player to make it onto the short list, Louis Hordern is fast establishing himself as one of the best right-backs in the world. The 22-year-old already has a World Cup winners medal to his name, as well as three SPL titles, and runs to the Quarter, Semi and Final of the Champions' Cup. Hordern is a powerful runner, strong, athletic, and with great technical ability. Some days it looks almost effortless the way he marshals the right flank, letting nothing whatsoever past him. There was some interest in the player towards the end of the last transfer window, so that will be something Jane Gullie is keen to snuff out.

4th: Regatta Aspenwood -- Handon United

In her three years here Regatta Aspenwood his never been far from the top of the running order. As time goes on, the Five and a half million United paid for her is looking increasingly like a bargain. The Nephara international is a big match player; she scores goals, sets them up, and has a game that is very difficult to defend against. Aspenwood is worth a good fifteen goals a season, and has a habit of scoring them at the right time. Your heart just bleeds for her, with the knowledge that she was born in the same generation as Rowena Strongbow, as this will undoubtedly restrict her ability to make an impact on the world-stage.

5th: Jasper Valaran -- Lammerton

It's the first time in a few years Jasper Valaran has been up amongst the awards, and it shows the difference some success makes. While they failed to capture the title, Lammerton have been buzzing this season, with so many fantastic individual performances throughout the side. Valaran has been a real talisman for the Hornets over the years: he's a player who is always there, always wanting the ball, always looking for the clever forward pass. The Cenian has probably been coming under a bit of pressure for his place in the national team, with the likes of Avi Renning, and Asher Koromin making a name for themselves - this season, however, he has proven he is very much alive and kicking.

Long-list: Eoin Killanen (Kirk Preston), Circe Rosenthal (Marionville), Marc-André Onasi (Handon United), Line Stenberg (Handon United), Raquel Naeher (Lammerton)

Golden Boot (Top Scorer):

1st: 25 Isla Sibučić -- Cornellians

2nd: 24 Daniel Dostalok -- Handon United

3rd: 23 Jessica Grey -- Marionville

4th: 21 Oskar Holsteiner -- Kirk Preston United

| Kaytlyne Victoriane -- Lammerton

6th: 19 Marc-André Onasi -- Handon United

| | Emil Eklund -- Cornellians

8th: 18 Heron Kendall -- Port Sebastian

| Elspeth Glendening -- Lammerton

10th: 17 Mirka Shitakuari -- West Holbrookdale

Scorers below equal tenth not listed

Young Player of The Year:
1st: Isla Sibučić -- Cornellians

See player of the year awards.

2nd: Oskar Holsteiner -- Kirk Preston United

"Oskar Holst Holsteiner, so good they named him twice" is the new hit song around the Auldgate Park terraces. The young Farfadillis striker has set the SPL alight this season, with his goals and creative forward play. Twenty-one goals this season, and Holsteiner already looks as if he's caught the eye of the national team manager. There is every indication this young man is set for a big future - however, it's likely to lie away from Kirk Preston.

3rd: Dawn Morham -- Marionville

Dawn Morham now has a real chance to step out from the shadows of her older sister, Krista, and establish a name for herself. The young left back has been one of Marionville's best players since their return to the SPL, and as well as having just picked up her first senior cap, she also has Globe Cup football under her belt. Morham has all the attributes to become one of the great attacking wingbacks in the SPL.

4rd: Avi Renning -- Port Sebastian

Nicolas Lars pulled out all the stops to get this young man on board. The Cenian international has been making some big waves from a young age, and already has some impressive silverware to his name. He is a fantastic playmaker, and has really driven Port Sebastian forward this season with his positive and adventurous style of passing football.

5th: Chimera Moxham -- Port Patrick United

At a first glance, Chimera Moxham is a player who seems to be destined for the top. We were disappointed on the whole with the Breakers this season, but Moxham was one player who shone through despite the team's difficulties. They forked out a lot, but you'd imagine her valuation is only going to go up. Based on what we have seen, this inventive, two-footed attacker has the potential to really drive the Handon side forward in the years to come.

Long-list: Robbie McSuol (West Holbrookdale), Jayden Fox (Handon United) Ezequiel Marchiondo (Lammerton), Thomas Still (Cornellians) Laura Carrow (New Belfast Warriors)

Manger of The Year:
1st: Johnny Smith -- Lammerton

It was probably one of those seasons where Johnny Smith didn't know whether to celebrate or hang his head in despair. It most likely depends on whether you are a glass half full person or not, because Lammerton are in the weird place of having had their best season in decades, while missing out on the league title by the slimmest of margins. His players can't have given him any more than they already have done, and for the Hornets to force their way between Handon United and Cornellians was something special. Tactically, Lammerton have been immense, and a real joy to watch going forward. Holding on to Victoriane, Naeher, and Valaran is an absolute must this summer.

2nd: Ross Killanen -- Kirk Preston United

Another nearly man, but in terms of the way he has turned Kirk Preston around, Ross Killanen is worthy of a mention here. Having your World Cup winneing son come back and play for you is always a plus, but the truth of the matter is the Holy Men are way more than just Eoin Killanen. Matilda Weiss, Oskar Holsteiner, Leopoldo Ramirez, they have all been outstanding; fitting in brilliantly into Killanen's no nonsense, direct, attacking style. They now have Globe Cup football to look forward to, and this season my well prove pivotal in the side's development.

3rd: Jane Gullie -- Handon United

Another title for Jane Gullie, who seems to have finally cracked the SPL. A third league title in four, and yet another strong run in the Champions' Cup... there's probably little left for the former Schottia boss to achieve. United have looked very impressive this season, and given how much of this squad she has constructed herself, much of the credit must go to Gullie. The test now will be living up to the sky-high expectations the team have already set themselves.

Signing of The Year:
This is awarded to the incoming player who made the biggest impact relative to price, profile, and reputation.

Robbie McSuol -- West Holbrookdale

Port Patrick United. $900K.
After his catastrophic flop at Port Patrick, Robbie McSuol got a chance to show SPL what he was really made of, back with his old club. On his day McSuol is one of the best passers of the ball in the game, and is pivotal to how West Holbrookdale set up. Buying him back for a million less than they sold him a year earlier was undoubtedly a good bit of business.

Team of The Year:
Differently to the player of the year awards, the official team of the year is voted for by the Schottic public. This is why the players can differ from those selected for the official awards, and normally come from the teams with the larger support bases.

GK= Krista Till
DEF= Hordern - Morham - November - Joon Ho Hwang
MID= Valaran - Sibučić - Killanen
FOR= Victoriane- Holsteiner - Aspenwood

Cup Winners' Cup -- Grand Final @ King's Park in Scott City, Darmen
San Marco Storm (PCR) 1–4 Port Sebastian

There was a lot of hype surrounding this match in the build up, with the fact that they were playing San Marco Storm, making it a bit of a derby. Porty are a proud, centuries old club, steeped in history; where as six-year-old, millionaire’s sandbox, Storm, are as shallow as a puddle. It had all the makings of a good match, and Porty fans certainly had something to make some noise about early on after they took the lead through Heron Kendall. The Nepharim got her head on the end of an Alexander Alan cross and turned the ball past Pierluigi Cevenni after only eleven minutes. Storm responded well, however, and showed why their passage to the final was indeed no fluke. Kira Niri-Smith picked out Indira Saxson for an equaliser, but sadly, it only succeeded in spurring the Schottian's on. In a very strong second half display, Porty added three more through Keeva Crowe (2), and Avi Renning, as they cruised to victory in the end. It was a big performance, securing Schottia's first senior international domestic trophy.

Youth Champions' Cup -- Grand Final @ Imperial Arena, Crystopolis, Crystal Empire
(VIL) Turoki Tide 1–1 Cornellians (7–8 pen)
Cornellians XI: Angus Norwenn - Jack Kildonan, John Clarke, Harvey Roseroot, Kara Lyndonton - Magnus Meeds, Kelly McInnes, Roberts Kalniņš, Thomas Still - Lyie Lerwick, William Bressay

Cornellians young guns played out a tightly fought battle in the Youth Champions' Cup final, and were taken all the way to penalties by Turoki Tide at the Imperial Arena in the Crystal Empire. Thomas Still, was eligible for the match, having only appeared twice for Cornellians in senior competition, and the midfielder was the star of the show. Lyie Lerwick scored the important equaliser, which took the match to an incredible penalty shootout. Fifteen goals later, the Eagles were able to hold the trophy aloft, as these young players no doubt proved they have big careers ahead of them.

Schottic Cup -- Final @Harbour Hill Stadium
Lammerton 3–0 FC Döllar
Victoriane, Van Cleef, Glendening

It was a dull and drizzly May afternoon, as the Schottic footballing season came to a close in front of a sell out Harbour Hill Stadium. Lammerton had sold out their allocation weeks in advance, such was the weight of expectation that the club were on the verge of capping a sensational season with some silverware. It wouldn't a be cup match without a little excitement however, and that came in the form of FC Döllar, who had pulled off quite an achievement of their own in reaching their first ever Schottic Cup final. The First Division club were massive underdogs, make no mistake, but stranger things had happened, and the Hornets would need to be on their guard against complacency.

Döllar defended as if their lives depended on it in the first half and came so close to going up the tunnel with the scores at 0-0. However, just a few fans were getting to their feet in a bid to beat the half-time kiosk queues, Lammerton struck. A looping pass forward from Mars Alexandersson stopped right at the feet of Kaytlyne Victoriane who finished with aplomb. In the second half the midfield duo of Horvat and Valaran got a grip on the match, and after that, there was no way back for the First Division side. Raquel Naeher found the head of defender John van Cleef with a powerfully driven in corner, as the young centre-back will have no doubt caught the eye of Lionel Mah sat in the crowd. Elspeth Glendening wrapped things up twelve minutes from the end, as the striker converted from close range following a pinpoint assist from Victoriane.

POTM: Horvat

First Division Round Up & Awards

This was meant be a wide-open First Division this season, but Bara Waves had other ideas. Handon's newest club got over the disappointment of their relegation last season with scintillating campaign, which saw them wrap up the title race with several matches to spare. On paper, it didn't look like the Waves were head and shoulders above the rest, but they produced a near flawless campaign, even surpassing West Holbrookdale's points total from the previous season. Manager Jon Fotan certainly seems to have performed some magic since taking over, and the signing of former Schottia cap, Catlin L'Attue, has proven to be nothing short of inspired. The former AFC Hollybrent winger moved to a more central role, where she dealt with everything thrown at her as she picked up the player of the year award, in her first season back in Schottia. Young Cosumarite winger, Dolores Ciboney, was also a breath of fresh air, while Schottia DBC star, Ana Aytoun, continued to develop into what looks like a very good player.

Much to the frustration of Grantont Vale and Lammerton City - who both played some very good football - it was rough and tumble D'Itille players who took the other automatic promotion place, with Nicolas Irongray in particular looking impressive. The defensive midfielder is unrecognisable from the lanky 21-year-old who was relegated two years ago, and looks like he could serve the Lime Greens well back in the top flight.

Begstadt sides, FC Döllar and Soessch 1990 followed Granton and City into the play-off with big sides, Hollin and Hillstreet missing out, as they were confined to second tier football for another year.

Down at the bottom of the table there probably wasn't too much surprise to see Anacy and Thistle go back down, after largely disappointing seasons. Lammerton Wonderers also struggled with the pace, and will now face the long road back from the Second Division.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Bara Waves             38   28   5   5    82   39  +43    89 Promoted
 2 D'Itille               38   21  10   7    62   46  +16    73 Promoted
 3 Granton Vale           38   19  11   8    71   40  +31    68 Promoted via play-off
 4 Lammerton City         38   19   8  11    63   45  +18    65
 5 FC Döllar              38   17   9  12    68   60   +8    60
 6 Soessch 1990           38   17   8  13    66   55  +11    59
 7 Hollin                 38   15  13  10    55   52   +3    58
 8 Hillstreet             38   15  12  11    65   59   +6    57
 9 Handon North           38   16   8  14    57   55   +2    56
10 Lochend Town           38   16   7  15    56   55   +1    55
11 Oxlaey Court           38   15  10  13    43   44   −1    55
12 Stalker Bay            38   14  10  14    47   43   +4    52
13 Berwick United         38   12  10  16    54   59   −5    46
14 Jena VB                38   12  10  16    44   52   −8    46
15 Oak Park Celtic        38   10   9  19    37   48  −11    39
16 University of Handon   38    8  12  18    44   60  −16    36
17 Lammerton Eels         38   10   6  22    46   78  −32    36
18 Lammerton Wonderers    38    9   8  21    46   62  −16    35 Relegated
19 New Town Thistle       38    8  10  20    44   65  −21    34 Relegated
20 Anacy                  38    7   8  23    45   78  −33    29 Relegated

Play-off Semi-finals:

Granton Vale 2–0 Soessch 1990
Lammeron City 4–3 FC Döllar

The play-off semi-finals went with the formbook for the most part, with the favourites both progressing without too much drama. Lucy Khoroushi found the net twice for Ganton Vale, as they eased past the Raiders, while Lammerton City came out on top of an end-to-end encounter with FC Döllar. A late goal from Kaba Hoshie meant there was no need for penalties.

Play-off Final: @ Harbour Hill Stadium
Lammerton City 0–2 Granton Vale

Granton Vale would have went into this match as slight favourites, and that advantage was evident from the off, as the more battle hardened group of players asserted themselves on this play-off final. The Beachcombers have strength and purpose right through their ranks, but in Khoroushi they have a subtly brilliant strike prospect. The 20-year-old opened the scoring, before Robert Craig added a second to send Gerhard Bitter's side back to the SPL at the second time of asking.

First Division Player of Year:
1st: Caitlin L'Attue -- Bara Waves

2nd: Nicolas Irongray -- D'Itille

3rd: Dolores Ciboney -- Bara Waves

First Division Golden Boot:
1st: Flora Klee -- Bara Waves

(29 goals)
2nd: Lucy Khoroushi -- Granton Vale

(26 goals)
3rd: Peter Hans Goulbre -- FC Döllar

First Division Young Player of Year:
1st: Dolores Ciboney -- Bara Waves

2nd: Ana Aytoun -- Bara Waves

3rd: Kaba Hoshie -- Lammerton City

First Division Manager of Year:
Jon Fotan -- Bara Waves

First Division Team of Year:

GK: David Prince
DEF: Alison Banks - Grace Hallman - Armindo Arvizo - Sven Allman
MID: Tamar Dunn - Caitlin L'Attue - Nicolas Irongray
FOR: Dolores Ciboney - Flora Klee - Lucy Khoroushi

Second Division - Third Tier
First and second placed sides, along with the winners of the play-offs, gain promotion to the First Division. The bottom three sides are relegated to the regional divisions.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Herman Park                   38   23   7   8    77   43  +34    76 Promoted
 2 Baumann VB                    38   22   6  10    76   52  +24    72 Promoted
 3 Centre for Excellence         38   20  11   7    73   54  +19    71
 4 Pilton College                38   20   9   9    73   46  +27    69 Promoted via play-off
 5 Wolbeck                       38   18  12   8    70   53  +17    66
 6 Huntley Hunters               38   17  12   9    59   55   +4    63
 7 Allous VB                     38   16  13   9    60   37  +23    61
 8 Regional Development Side C   38   17   9  12    62   52  +10    60
 9 Regional Development Side A   38   17   8  13    55   51   +4    59
10 Regional Development Side B   38   17   6  15    64   55   +9    57
11 Regional Development Side D   38   15  10  13    63   51  +12    55
12 Soessch Red Star              38   16   6  16    65   55  +10    54
13 Toll Cross Academy            38   14  10  14    66   67   −1    52
14 Soessch Mountaineers          38   14   8  16    63   60   +3    50
15 Marionville Thistle           38   13   8  17    49   65  −16    47
16 Dundee Rovers                 38    9  10  19    48   67  −19    37
17 Coldstream Farmers Union      38    9  10  19    49   70  −21    37
18 Belker Crest                  38    6  14  18    31   65  −34    32 Relegated
19 Port Newtown                  38    4  10  24    38   75  −37    22 Relegated
20 Bolton Green                  38    2   3  33    39  107  −68     9 Relegated

Play-Offs: Semi Final
Pilton College 3–1 Allous VB @Ashley Road Stadium
Wolbeck 5–2 Huntley Hunters @Gannon Park

Play-Offs: Final
Pilton College 3–2 Wolbeck @Harbour Hill Stadium

Second Division, Player of The Year:
1st: Elena Vale, Herman Park

2nd: Chris Ruby, Huntley Hunters

3rd: Valentine Roxel, Regional Development Side B

Golden Boot: Elena Vale,

(22 goals)

Youth Football - Junior Championship

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cornellians                   30   18   9   3    61   34  +27    63 Champions
 2 Bara Waves                    30   15   9   6    57   42  +15    54
 3 Regional Development Side A   30   12  11   7    47   37  +10    47
 4 Regional Development Side B   30   14   5  11    51   45   +6    47
 5 Port James Athletic           30   12  10   8    48   41   +7    46
 6 Marionville                   30   12  10   8    49   43   +6    46
 7 Regional Development Side D   30   11   8  11    37   35   +2    41
 8 Port Sebastian                30   10  10  10    53   49   +4    40
 9 Handon United                 30   11   7  12    37   37    0    40
10 FC Soessch                    30    9  10  11    42   51   −9    37
11 Regional Development Side C   30   11   3  16    47   56   −9    36
12 Lammerton                     30    9   9  12    39   48   −9    36
13 Dundee                        30    8  11  11    34   37   −3    35
14 Kings Park                    30    8   7  15    42   54  −12    31
15 New Blefast Warriors          30    7   8  15    38   51  −13    29
16 La Gorlions                   30    7   5  18    41   63  −22    26

Junior Championship, Player of The Year:
1st: Lyie Lerwick, Cornellians

2nd: Courtney MacDiarman, Bara Waves

3rd: Roberts Kalniņš, Cornellians

(SCT)

by **Schottia** » Tue Mar 05, 2019 2:40 am

2031-32

Preview
-Part One-

After a two season dispute with league organisers over sponsorship payments, the Schottic Premier League is open for business once again. In that time there has been a huge exodus of players, helping to turn the league on its head. Members of the SPL quickly moved to set up the Schottic Football Conference (SFC), a holding pen, allowing them to continue to ply their trade for what must have felt like an eternity, waiting for the green light.

The clubs have taken the opportunity to bring about some much needed restructuring. The number of teams competing in the top two tiers has been reduced from twenty to sixteen, making for a much more competitive fixture list given the country’s population size. The clubs playing in Port Christopher have also been incorporated into SPL setup, a move which is probably in keeping with the direction of travel. The SPL will not be going down the route of forming a Multi Associational League, and the Christopheran sides will compete as Schottic teams. The team finishing bottom will be relegated automatically to the First Division, with the team finishing fifteenth entering a system of play-offs with the second and third finishing teams in the First Division for the last remaining place. Beneath the second tier, there will be four regional leagues, the winners of which will also be entered into play-offs, with two places in the First Division up for grabs.

The Club: One of three Port Christopher sides to enter this all-new amalgamated top tier, Blue Coast bring with them a rich footballing tradition. Previously one of Port Christophers “big two” their finest hour was in reaching the semi final of the Champions Cup. The side, who have produced youth talent including Evelyn Conjure and Ross Renshaw, should definitely benefit long term from playing in a more competitive league, it may just take them a while to get up to speed. Home advantage will be the key factor Coast, with the temperature and humidity in San Marco causing major issues for visiting teams.

The Squad: You have to feel a little sorry for Blue Coast 1981, who have had the heart ripped out of their squad no fewer that three times in the past five years. Chad Duquez and Pearl Endicott are the only stars remaining from that famous side who nearly went all the way to the CC final. The club have invested a little, with a view to joining the SPL set up, and Qusmo’s Jralv-Nexev Pec, along with former Mucusia striker Eleni Melas, will be welcome recruits.

Endicott is without a doubt one of the best keepers in the league, and she will need to be on her toes starting behind what is a bit of a patch-up-job defence. Chromatik, Bellarmie Errion, is well and truly over the hill, whereas the central combination of Cements João and Cade McDonald lack first team experience. Helen Applerath has done reasonably well since moving from Super-Llamaland, adapting well to her new role protecting the back four. Olivia O’Quinn has also shown some promise, and the young midfielder looks capable of a few nice touches. Alongside the obvious talent of Pec, Coast will once again look to Quebecois, Duquez, to come up with that creative spark. The 31-year-old might appear overweight, lazy, and disinterested at times, but his left footed strike is truly one of the best in the game. Accompanying Melas up front, William Bishop-Weon has proven to be a reliable source of goals in Port Christopher, and should tuck a few away in the SPL.

Prediction: 9th. Not the Coast of old, but there are some signs of life beginning to stir. They are in no danger of relegation, but this will be a transitional year.

Star Player: Chad Duquez | Rising Star: Olivia O’Quinn

The Club: Central Stars are a club who have been slowly growing in stature over the last seventy years, meandering their way up the Schottic football pyramid towards what seemed like it would always be their eventual end point. They have been a mid-table, second tier side for much of the last decade, where they have seen their averages attendances nearly double, as they slowly established themselves as Lammerton's second biggest team. They are a strong side, with an infrastructure behind them, and there is every chance they could become a permanent fixture in the SPL.

The Squad: Re-emerging from the somewhat barren years of the UICA boycott, Stars gaffer Chris Pilum has been limited in terms of whom he can bring in. Bryony Swanton should be capable of making an impact at this level, with the A-League star’s style of play conducive to what the club are looking to do. Pilum’s only other signing is promising United striker, Madita Fetlar, but at nineteen, it’s questionable how much she will play.

Allison Rowe is a very experienced keeper, and arguably one of the best female players in that position in the country. She will likely come under a lot of pressure this season with the normally so reliable, Levi Okonjo, now thirty-five and lacking in pace. Jim Krombach has been a solid performer over the past two seasons, and with Swanton arriving at right-back, the Stars can at least feel confident that the wing-back positions are covered. Club skipper Rosalind Archibald brings a steeliness and stability to the midfield, and provides the anchor that Mark Deleuze and Fern MacEanraig need, enabling them to push forward. Delueze might be thirty-six, but the journeyman midfielder still has the craft and vision cause most defences problems. In attack the Stars have a proven goal scorer in Kirisakaian international Miki. The former Warriors striker knows her way around the goalmouth, and wing-forwards Josiha Hutton and Andy Fischer are more than capable to providing the ammo. Fetlar is the unknown quantity in up front, and the youngster will be hoping for a chance to show her parent club what she can do.

Prediction: 16th. Central Stars are a good club in the making, but they are likely to be victims of the 16-team format. The side need to bring in half a dozen players before SPL football becomes a realistic possibility.

Star Player: Miki Kurugaya | Rising Star: Madita Fetlar.

The Club: Only a baby in footballing terms, Cornellians were set up to represent Schottia in the now long-defunct Multiverse Premier League. The fact that they were subsequently permitted to enter the SPL, was a controversial issue at the time, and to an extent, the Eagles have never managed to shake that ill-feeling. Cornellians have arguably been the nations most successful team in the UICA era, and have seen a host of world class players pass through their doors. The club’s most successful spell undoubtedly came under Cosumarite boss, Alexander Pearce, who guided the club to six league titles, before returning to his homeland to manage the national team. The club are situated near the small town of Lochend, a short drive from the nation’s capital, Handon.

The Squad: What will this new chapter in Schottic football bring for a club, which have arguably lost the most. Jon Fotan has been a popular appointment as manager, after what was seen as a successful spell at Bara Waves. He brings with him former Schottia skipper Jenny McDonald, and the player who previously spent time in Port Christopher and Nephara makes the step up to assistant. The duo have been forced to rely heavily on homegrown talent, with the Youth CC winning side from three years ago swelling their ranks. Mirka Shitakuari is their big money signing at $5 million (a tiny fraction of what they were shelling out three years ago) and having previously risen through the Handon United youth academy, her purchase will have raised eyebrows. Additionally, Marionville defender, Donald Nesbit, looks like a solid bit of business, as does the highly impressive Robert Craig snapped up from Granton Vale.

At the back Cornellians look far less comfortable than I’m sure they would like, with veteran former Schottia keeper, Harry Gould, sitting behind a youthful back-four. Nesbit will need to hit the ground running, playing along side beanpole 22-year-old Kara Lyndonton. Jack Kildonan and Adely Berger have plenty of talent at wing-back, but both lack experience on the big stage, and that may leave the Eagles vulnerable. Thomas Still, a one time rising star of Schottic football, will be given the important job of anchoring the midfield diamond. Robert Craig will slot straight into the starting line up playing alongside Johannas Ünterhausen in the centre. Ünterhausen’s experience will be vital to the side’s chances, and on his day, he has the ability to be a real game changer. At the sharp end of the diamond, Shitakuari will be hoping she can replicate some of the form she showed at West Holbrookdale. The Sunriseian born attacker can both score goals and create them, and she should be key to any title push. If Cornellians do come up with the goods this season, it will likely be with a lot of help from Sumireko Karuizawa, who partners John Fyfe upfront. The former Kirisakian U15s international was the clubs top goal scorer last season, and has skills in abundance. Fyfe, a former Schottia call up, provides some much needed muscle, acting as more of a traditional number nine.

Prediction: 3rd. The club have not had the easiest of times during Schottia’s UICA exile. Manager Reindardt Shale quickly headed for the exit door, closely followed by a raft of the clubs world-class stars. The rebuilding job is underway, but this season will come too soon for manager Jon Fotan.

Star player: Johannas Ünterhausen | Rising Star: Sumireko Karuizawa

The Club: The transformation in Dundee over the last ten years has been incredible. This small, relatively poor Southern Schottia side have gone from yo-yo team, to one capable of (at one point) pushing for the top-six. With the redevelopment of Granier Road Park complete, Dundee now have an 18,000 seater stadium removing what had been seen as a glass ceiling for this club. Uniquely situated between Handon and Lammerton, Dundee are in a perfect place to pick up graduates from the big academies, looking for a platform to get some first team football.

The Squad: Having managed to retain much of their previous shape, consistency could be Walter Queen’s greatest weapon this season. Jane Schramm, a former U15-WC winner, joins up from the now defunct Cosumarite league and the player who has had two spells in Quebec looks like a good inclusion. Otherwise it’s as you were for a Panners side that performed decently enough in the SFC.

Alan Städtischer-Young has the difficult job of replacing goalkeeping prodigy, Ed Lorrey, in the Dundee team. While the Panners’ current keeper isn’t from that mould, he does a decent job. Team captain, Poppy Fayrkirk is now thirty-one, and seems to be improving with age. The former Mucusia girl has been on good form during the UICA boycott, and there will be some shocked folks in Dundee, should she miss out on a place in the next Schottia squad. Right-back Jeremy Buckthorn is the other defender of note, having received several caps for his nation at youth level. Alongside Schramm in the midfield, Vera Cummings and Jim Gerrish complete a no nonsense team. Jim ‘Hacker’ Gerrish is one of the most prolific enforcers in the league, while Cummings has twenty-odd caps for Schottia, earned during her time with Port Sebastian. Left winger, Mark Keane, has had NT call ups in the past, but the pacey winger is yet to earn a first cap. Chris Davis is very much of the same type, and his quick feet and ability to get to the by-line can cause the opposition problems. Former Lammerton striker, Wallace Solway is the player chosen to lead the line for the Panners this season. She has been a fringe player her entire career, and maybe this could be her big chance.

Prediction: 14th. Dundee have come up with the good before, and manager Walter Queen will need to produce something very special this season, if the team are to avoid relegation.

Star Player: Poppy Fayrkirk | Rising star: Jenifer Haining

The Club: Historically speaking, United are without a doubt Schottia’s biggest club. While initially the transition to UICA football left them a little wrong-footed, the club eventually managed to re-establish themselves at the top of the pile. The first Schottic team to play in a Champions’ Cup final, and the first to rank in the UICA top five, United have built a considerable reputation both at home and abroad. Situated in the heart of the nations capital, in the affluent Quayside district, United share a bitter rivalry with city neighbours Port Sebastian.

The Squad: The biggest boon for the club has no doubt been holding onto manager Jane Gullie, who could have easily been tempted by pastures new. As it is, the former Schottia gaffer remains in place and should ensure a smooth transition back to top end football. In terms of the transfer market, she has opted to keep her powder dry, banking on the fact that a side with five former Schottia internationals will be enough to seal a return to CC football. Gullie’s only real expenditure has been the $4 million capture of experienced Nepharim attacker, who will provide competition up front.

The team look very solid at the back, with former Schottia cap, Anna Kurovski, tending the goal behind a back-four of Hordern, Cottle, Karasawa, and James. Skipper JK Cottle is the best centre half in the world (…seven years past his prime) but he’s old, old as the hills, in fact rumour has it that if he ever returned to his native Bonesea, then he would actually turn to dust. Eri Karasawa will likely need to be replaced long term, but the energetic midfielder-turned-defender has proven a useful foil to the sluggish Cottle in the Conference years. Louis Hordern is another player who was previously the best in his position, but will four years without international football have affected Schottia’s World Cup winning right-back? On the opposite flank, Laurence James is a former U18 captain of Osarius, and you would argue that the Firewood City youth product is a real steal for Jane Gullie. It is the midfield area, however, where United may well be too hot to handle. World Cup winners Line Stenberg and Natalie Adams are joined by former Northampton star Rosie Donaldson, after Gullie moved quickly to snap up the Schottia cap after the TL went under. A daughter of the club’s former captain, Donaldson is a chip off the old block, lacing the midfield together with her range of passes. Stenberg, who previously had a spell with Kingsgrove, provides the physical energy, while Adams is always looking out for the killer through-ball. United go with a three player forward line, spearheaded by 23-year-old Soloman Johnson, who managed 19 goals in the Conference last season. Flanking him on either side are promising Apoxian attacker Magdalen Demetrius, and explosive Cenian winger Marc-André Onasi. Shroveday is capable of filling in either wide or through the middle, and will see a fair bit of game time.

Prediction: Champions. The fact that United have been able to hold on to several key players, and perhaps more importantly, manager Jane Gullie, means the side will have an edge this season. Larger gate receipts and a better established youth have meant the club have stolen a march on their rivals over the past two seasons.

Star Player: Louis Hordern | Rising Star: Ava Rose Donaldson

The Club: Nicknamed "Handon's Wee Team" based on the fact that they have always been on the outside of the bitter rivalries between the likes of Handon United and Port Sebastian. Kings Park might be geographically very close to United, but they have always kept to themselves to an extent. They have a small but loyal support who fill the home section of Lochely Green to capacity most weeks. Their small stature means that they are always vulnerable to shakes in the system, and they will need to start rebuilding once again.

The Squad: Eric Desmond is back at the helm, six seasons after leaving to manage the Kel Assuk national side. He has big boots to fill, following in the footsteps of former Brenecia and Anglatia manager, Raven Cullen, who turned the club into a considerable force. Desmond has started promisingly, however, recruiting Schottic star, Lizzy Addison from Lhor Orcas. The player who was capped as recently as WC 80, will go some way towards glossing over the cracks left by the departing Ashbrown and Hartsdown.

Matti Kettler will start this season in goals, having graduated from the club’s U-21 side last season. The youngster has quick-feet, fast reflexes, and will need both, given the Royals historic defensive issues. Anna Lombardi is the girl they rely on at the back, with the small, sturdy, former Iron Syndicate centre-half able to cover a lot of ground. Her counterpart, Richard Dachs, can play some exquisite touches, but produces far too many heart-in-mouth moments. Right-back, Yuiko Kasugano, looks fantastic going forward, but at the back, the Kiri is very accident prone. David Coralin is a wholly unknown quantity at the moment, and the 20-year-old left-back will be given the benefit of the doubt for now. Tsumugi Narita is a deep-set playmaker with bags of experience. The Kirisakian made her debut for Cornellians aged fourteen, and has a style and composure, which allows her to ping passes around all day long. Cenian, Sendoa is the all action central midfielder any team would be happy to list among their number. Effective going forward, strong tracking back, the only issue he has is with trying to do too much. Addison will complete the midfield-trio, and as a solid all-rounder, she may find herself utilised in the defensive role. Lucy Curren surprised a few pundits last season, chipping in fourteen goals in a stunning return to Schottic football. At 35 her pace is buggered, but the WC-winner (who spent time in Nephara, Valanora, and Electrum) still looks dangerous in the six yard box. Kings Park’s stand-out player last season was Billy McCorralie, who has shown a turn of pace which can more than make up for Curren’s mobility issues. Completing the line up is Evie Sunders, who will need to rise to the occasion after making the step-up from the side’s academy.

Prediction: 11th. Another club hit hard by the loss of players. The Brenecian grit that they had under Cullen will need to be replaced if they are to make any headway. Mid-table finish.

Star player: Billy McCorralie | Rising star: Evie Sunders

The Club: Lammerton's iconic yellow and black stripes are one of the SPL's enduring features. The Hornets pride themselves on attacking football, and to be sure, many of the countries best forwards have come through the ranks at the City Ground. The club had their heyday in the 1970's and since then there have been ups and downs for a club who have been generally upper-mid-table. The UICA era brought about a significant upturn in their fortunes however, and in a period which saw the Hornets reach the Champions’ Cup final, they will also be remembered as the club who pushed Cornellians and United hardest domestically.

The Squad: After two tricky seasons in the Schottic Fooball Conference, Lammerton will be hoping they now have the personnel in place to bring about a change in their fortunes. Champions’ Cup winner, Grant Carlin, is a massive coup, and the Schottia international should form an intimidating partnership alongside John van Cleef at centre-back. Johnny Smith will be reunited with Cosumarite striker, Sett Horn, a player he previously signed in his time with Dundee. On the face of it, Horn looks like a shrewd acquisition, having already proven himself to be a goal scorer at SPL level. Finally the loan signing of Cornellians, Roberts Kalniņš, may have surprised a few, but the industrious midfielder will add some much needed quality to the midfield.

Defensively the Hornets have a good blend of youth and experience with Carlin and Van Cleef sandwiched between the sprightly combo of Francisca Beckett and Katherina Meyer zu Heide. Both young women are straight from the Lammerton academy, and look highly impressive on the ball. Former Azoth man, Carlin, provides the muscle, while Van Cleef has the passing ability to work the ball quickly from the back. In Kaige MacCílarook, Lammerton also have a solid keeper, knocking firmly on the door for a Schottia cap. Kalniņš will sit deep in the midfield, harrying the opposition and looking the meaningful pass forward. Ahead of him Jasper Valaran and Mars Alexandersson complete what looks to be a dynamic and versatile midfield. Both can hit the ball from distance, and Valaran in particular has the passing ability to unlock the opposition defence. Operating in the hole is former Galactico winner, Kaytlyne Victoriane. The Chromtik had a dismal season by her own high standards, and will be hoping that a return to UICA accreditation will bring about a turn around in her fortunes. Up front Horn will bring the burley muscle to a little and large strikefore along side Elspeth Glendening. The former Schottia cap has never really found from at Lammerton, and she, too, has much to prove this season.

Prediction: 4th. If Victoriane can recapture some of her lost scoring form, then anything could happen. They have made some astute purchases in the window however, and they certainly have an outside chance of lifting the title.

Star player: Kaytlyne Victoriane | Rising Star: Katherina Meyer zu Heide

The Club: Few sides saw more ups and downs than Marionville over the past fifteen years. The Old Boys have made charges on the UICA spots, but have also seen their club relegated in what was a stormy period. Thing seem to be on the up now, however, and Champions’ Cup football is a testament to how they managed to turn their fortunes around. Marionville have always been a club who like to play attractive football, even to the extent it has been their downfall on occasions. This beautiful little town, made up of canal ways, bridges, and cobble streets might not scream footballing powerhouse; but they have enough fans, and enough resources to mount a sustained top four push.

The Squad: On the face of it, you’d have to say Jack Cordoba has done the best he could. They have had a torrid two years in the Conference, trying to lace back together what was once a team. This season couldn’t have started much worse either, as they waved goodbye to skipper Donald Nesbit, who left to join Cornellians. Cordoba has managed to steady the ship however, and the addition of Niccolo Rolo, and Gareth Souter will have gone a long way towards plugging some defensive gaps. The Old Boys have also brought in promising Lammerton City winger, Kaba Hoshie, who has all the hallmarks of a player that could develop into someone special.

Marionville will put the faith in baby faced keeper, Donald Bone, with the 20-year-old keeper given the number one jersey ahead of the start of the new season. The Old Boys will go with a back four of Pablo Altamirano, Dawn Morham, Gareth Souter, and Niccolo Rubio. Keeping a hold of Morham has been important to the club, and the sister of Corvistone’s Krista looks set to follow her elder sibling by becoming an important international player. At thirty-seven Souter is likely to be a short term holding measure, but the Schottia’s most capped defender – who has played most of his career in Ceni – should help to steady the ship. Rubio is a one, for whom, the club will harbour some hopes, and the cultured young defender is a player with real potential. The Marionville midfield has changed entirely in the three years since they took to the field in the Champions’ Cup. Magnus Kellar and Ana Aytoun did a decent job in the Conference last year, but as one might expect, looked at times like they had never met, let alone played together. Isaiah Vaught can play on the left or through the middle, and with Schottia caps to his name, he should be up to the challenge. On the opposite flank, Hoshie is very much a long term project, but with game time, she might just make an impact. Once again there will be a lot resting on the shoulders of star striker, and club captain, Jessica Grey. The Osarian striker has been a steady source of goals over the last eight years, and much will hinge on her ability to recapture her SPL form. For company, she will have either Suilven Roagart or Scott Barbaroa. Both are strong young players, with a bit of pace about them, who will cause sluggish defenders a fair bit of grief.

Prediction: 7th. The UICA boycott came at a bad time for Marionville, and rebuilding on a shoestring has been slow and arduous. They will likely finish mid-table, but they will be well off the pace.

Star Player: Jessica Grey | Rising Star: Donald Bone

by **Schottia** » Thu Mar 07, 2019 9:32 am

-Part Two-

The Club: With their stadium nestled amongst the old terraced fisherman's houses of New Belfast - almost built into the streets themselves - the Warriors are a team at the very heart of the community. Before sponsorship and prize money turned the SPL on it's head, the Whalers could compete with anyone in the league, and were a force to be reckoned with. They seem to have now settled as a safe mid-table side, with the UICA spots often out of reach. A good reputation, and tales of their former glories, keep the Warriors' heads well above water, but there is no doubt they're felling the affects of budgetary restrictions.

The Squad: The decline of football in New Belfast looks as if it may have hit a critical point, with the city’s sole representatives limping over the line with a squad that is a sorry reflection of the club’s former glory. Strapped for finances, the only players Judy Scott has been able to bring in are Mordred Grieg (a free agent from Pikemouth), Pirates forward Lauren Beridze, and another freebee, Leigh Tudor, picked up from Scaffield.

SJG’s Nerio Teran has started between the sticks for the Whalers for the best part of a decade, and following his decision to remain with the club during the UICA boycott, he looks set to retain his place. Former Handon United youth player, Simon Johnson is going to be an important player for the club, with his ability to get forward down the right. Similarly, Sanchia Diaz, as an attacking left-wingback, provides the side with good mobility in the wide areas. Interestingly, centre-backs Jack Lennon and Teon Blaanka, at 21 years of age are the youngest players in this Warriors side – unfortunately however, they operate in a position where a little experience wouldn’t go amiss. Caitlin L’Attue is a rapid winger turned central midfielder, who switched position after her pace deserted her. After spending much of her career in Osarius, she made a name for herself two years ago, playing under Jon Fotan at Bara. Club Skipper, Thomás Fierro is another player the wrong side of thirty, but the seasoned Cenian very rarely puts a foot wrong in the centre of the park. One time “teen-sensation,” Joey Bia, is also on borrowed time at thirty-four, and while the former Porty man is a pale shadow of his former self, he still has a very decent strike on him. The club’s two new Brenecian recruits will bring a bit of physical presence to the side. Grieg is going to take a fair bit of stopping down the left, whereas Tudor might just be the poacher the club have been looking for. Alongside her, Lauren Beridze is one of those Jekyll and Hyde players, whose performances fluctuate between 10/10s and 4s.

Prediction: 13th. Too old, too slow, and really hurting as a result of finances. If their experienced players can perform, then there shouldn’t be too much threat of relegation

Star Player: Tomás Fierro | Rising Star: Teon Blaanka

The Club: The quintessential sleeping giants, Athletic were reduced to the role of backing singers during the UICA era. With the support and infrastructure the club have, they should be looking at the top four places, but more often than not, find themselves in the bottom half of the table. They have spent the last ten years lurching from one disappointment to another, at one point finishing below their much smaller neighbours, Mucusia. During Former Pirates manager Jimmy Mitchel’s tenure, the club’s performance went on something of an up turn. They will need to convert that into tangable success, however, under new manager John McCann.

The Squad: Player for player, McCann’s side don’t actually look too bad, and the addition of Qusmo midfielder, Nenzi-Frolt Erv, will improve what is an already strong looking midfield. All clubs have lost players during the Conference period, but objectively speaking, it’s quite possible the cuts haven’t fallen so badly for the Seasiders.

Mark Clarrman has done a good job since replacing Brendan Hammer in goals, making some important saves for the club last season. Like all Mitchel’s sides, Port James play with a back three, and it seems as if McCann will be sticking with that for the time being. Former Quebec international, Pepe Edgar, is the man who holds it all together at the back. He has a solid - if not a little uninspiring - compatriot in the form of Jakob Hüsch, and this season they are joined by the very promising Howard McMurtie fresh out of the academy. Midfielder, Inga Oòlansa has played for East Vormsi, aged fifteen, in the Independents Cup, and has subsequently risen quickly through the ranks at Athletic. Just behind her, Nenzi-Frolt Erv will partner seasoned campaigner, Greer Hyrman, who has represented Schottia at Under-21 level. The shining star in attack is 22-year-old Anna Meyreani, who has excelled for Schottia at youth level with her lung bursting runs and fancy footwork. Northern Sunrise attacker, Yunji, previously played with Mitchel at the Pirates, but is possibly on something of a downward spiral now. The strike force of Mark Anannd and Jack Hobbs is nothing fancy, but it gets the job done. A couple of good all-rounders, they can handle most of what is thrown at them.

Prediction: 10th. John McCann needs to instil something in them. There is some real talent in the side, but they will need to pull their socks up if they are to make an impact this season.

Star Player: Pepe Edgar | Rising Star: Anna Meyreani

The Club: Port Patrick have always been the poorer neighbours of fellow north Handon side, Port Sebastian. The two harbours more or less back onto one and other, so the Breakers have had a good close up look at Porty's considerable success. They were a sleeping-giant for years, languishing in the second tier. A big, soft club with a half empty stadium and dwindling finances; their fortunes were transformed ten years ago with Des Pleent's time as manager. Attendances are now at an all time high, and the club consistently find themselves in the top half of the table, pushing hard for the Globe Cup places. They have somehow never been able to shake that poorer relation tag, however, and it has been a bit of a mental block for the Galloway Road side.

The Squad: Charlotte Ünterhausen looks like a pretty astute purchase, given that the clubs outside of the top three have been finding recruitment difficult. Osarian youngster, Suzanne Tremblay, might not be Chimera Moxham, but she will also help to plug a gaping hole left behind when the Nepharim left for CCFC.

Ken Dourteny is one of a host of young keepers to have been given a chance in Schottia since the UICA boycott. The 23-year-old takes to the field behind a still intact back four of Watton Olrig, Vanessa Stocker, Mike Weber, and Danny Herzogenrath. All four have caps for Schottia at youth level, and with all the upheaval going on, could easily make the step up in the near future. In Ünterhausen and Aleksander Heino-Watanabe, the Breakers have a hardworking midfield duo, who can do a bit of everything. Both are utility players, the right side of thirty, who will role their sleeves up and get stuck in. The experience of Chiyoko Sakuraka will be an important factor, with the cultured left-winger able to take her time and pick out that all-important delivery. Former Chromatika star, Whitney Kelly, is the jewel in the crown of this midfield. The jet-heeled winger is just coming into her prime, and it’s sad to think of shinning career she has been denied with all the recent turmoil. Tremblay is a playmaker who perhaps needs to work a little more on her set up play. That said, she has a wicked strike on her, and the goals she chips in should more than make up for her imperfections. Up front, Chase Ziegenhorn is a real firebrand of a striker. The Cenian youngster has developed into a complete centre-forward, with the strength, skill and passion to score a barrel load in this new look SPL.

Prediction: 8th. Another club who have managed to hold onto the spine of their team and should fair well. Definitely top half, could push higher.

Star Player: Whitney Kelly | Rising star: Suzanne Tremblay

The Club: Port Sebastian hold the honour of being one of only three clubs to have lifted the SPL title, since UICA cash turned the whole thing on its head. They are a proud, old club, with a fierce and loyal support. Porty's fan base is very much parochial, and is almost exclusively drawn from the large housing estates surrounding the stadium. Originally a members' club for the workers at the now decommissioned shipyard, that tough, hard-bitten ethos is something that has stayed with the team. Apart from their often bloody rivalry with Handon United, Porty’s biggest claim to fame is their Cup Winners’ Cup triumph.

The Squad: Barry Gorman returned to Dyerton Stadium, after nearly two decades, to what was something of a mixed reception. The former Schottia, Blue Coast, and Soessch manager previously lifted the title with Porty, but there will be those who see his appointment as a little too safe. Gorman has managed to keep a solid looking team in tact, with Qusmo defender, Cunix-Betva, also being brought into the mix.

Boney, MG Grumbla, has been Porty’s number-one for the last five years, having joined the club as an amateur. He will tend the goal behind what should be a fairly effective back line of Cunix-Betva, Joon Ho Hwang, Colin Arkwright, and Alexander Caulder. Joon Ho Hwang is a Quebecois international, and former SPL player of the year. Arkwright and Caulder are both academy graduates, who provided cost effective cover during the SFC years. Colin Loweson is a player who has really grown into the central midfield role, and one who throve during the UICA exile. The former Holin man provided strength on the ball, as well as a cool head playing alongside one-time Cenian wonderkid, Avi Renning. Renning was a big money signing back in the day, and has gone on to show us (in glimpses) why the club moved heaven and earth to sign him as a teenager. Right winger, Alexander Alan, proved to be the no nonsense side-midfielder Schottia were looking for, as he racked up an excess of twenty caps during the WC79/80 campaigns. Richard Geddes, on the left is the poor man’s Alan, but he is decent at this level, and gives the side a feeling of balance. Keeva Crowe was right on the verge of making her big breakthrough four years ago, and will be hoping that this season will be her chance to show the world what she can do. The young striker has a tenacity and intensity, which make her hard to defend against at this level. Alongside her, Emil Klempner is a young player Gorman brought with him from FC Soessch. Given the options Die Rote Teufel have in attack, Klempner will have done his career no harm at all in jumping ship at this time.

Prediction: 6th. Port Sebastian have a settled squad with experienced players, and that might give them an edge, should it all come together. More likely, however, they will probably find themselves a little off the pace.

Star Player: Alexander Alan | Rising Star: Emil Klempner

The Club: This billionaire’s vanity project came a surprisingly long way, in a very short space of time. Mark Del Celmny took over cash strapped minnows Tralend back in 2026, and following a massive rebranding exercise, has transformed them into a side capable of competing on the world stage. Switching to playing football on the mainland is going to be a big step up for the former SuperLeague of Port Christopher champions, and it’s going to come with its challenges. With a new stadium on the way, however, and promise of more investment, it is surely just a matter of time before they start to climb the league.

The Squad: Storm rose hard and fast, but that meant that their fall back down to earth was equally dramatic. There has almost been a complete turn around of playing personnel over the past four years, with the club relying heavily on talent snapped up from around Port Christopher. Star right-back, Lena Kiefer, left for the Willox Street Pirates in a big money move this summer. While her absence will be felt, the loan signing of Cornellians striker, Lyie Lerwick, will go some way towards easing the fans suffering.

In an almost unrecognisable defence, 21-year-old Joel Kamara will be the one to watch. The centre-back took the step up last season, and immediately shone alongside Quebecois, Ahn Seung-Joon. Lawrence Morton comes back into the first team in place of the departing Kiefer, and left-back, Cordelia Backlig, completes the back line. Lucy Del Aragona is the quintessential Christopheran midfielder; aggressive, hard pressing, but with attacking flare in equal measure. Skipper, Kira Nirie-Smith, has been with the club since the age of fifteen, where she started her career as a right-winger. Nowadays she is a commanding midfielder, a player who most of the play flows through. Stan Critchlow is a Quebecois midfielder who came to the club five years ago, but is only just starting to make his mark now. In a forward line, which has been heavily disrupted, Chromatik attacker, Indira Saxson, is the name that stands out. Her experience will be much needed, playing alongside two former Cornellians youth products in the form of Lyie Lerwick, and William Bressay. Lerwick is a proven goal scorer in the Junior Championship, while Bressay, who spent time in Chromatika, is a brawny centre forward, who likes to mix things up.

Prediction: 12th. It all hinges on Del Aragona, and her ability to adjust to SPL football. If she can make the step up then they will be absolutely fine. This season will be a focus on putting the infrastructure in place.

Star Player: Lucy Del Aragona | Rising Star: Lyie Lerwick

The Club: The North Island's finest, FC Soessch are the biggest club from Schottia's predominantly German speaking region, Bergstadt. While they still draw a massive support, they lost a bit of ground on the title chasers over the last decade, and their old tag as number one challengers to Handon United is probably now consigned to history. They still have the facilities and resources, but probably not the platform to attract the top players these days– and that shows. Under former Schottia and Porty gaffer, Barry Gormans, they looked as if they were about to embark on a bit of a revival, but it sadly fizzled out with Schotia’s UICA accreditation.

The Squad: Davy Keates returns from a spell managing in Ceni, to take control of a Soessch side bursting with promise. The club had a great season last year, finishing second in the Conference, with most of the success built on the emergence of homegrown talent.

Former Lammerton and Schottia keeper, Jim Black, might be thirty-six, but he still has the pedigree and that no-nonsense approach to goal keeping which made him a hit with the Hornets. At the heart of the defence is veteran skipper, Ben Ross, a former Schottia star with fifteen caps to his name. Alongside him, is the left-footed Lilly McKinnely, who has been on excellent form since making the switch from Llamian football two years ago. At left-back, Alexi Ceanadach is really starting to develop into a quality defender, while Brenecian star, Emery Calvyn, should pack a fearsome punch as she marshals the right flank. Kerstin Dornenberger is probably the most recognisable name in in the centre of midfield, and the box-to-box midfielder was one of the standout performers in the SPL last season. Alongside her, James Inescourt has been a revelation since switching position from striker. The 24-year-old plays with his head up, always looking to drive the team forward. Laura Smith might be advancing in years, but the former Mucusia midfielder has provided a wise head when it was most sorely needed. The Soessch forward line struck fear into the heart off all who opposed it last season, pulling defenders this way and that. Allie Vacek was one time hot property, and the young woman dubbed ‘the Anglatian CMB’ has been showing us the kind of ruthless attacking prowess, which very nearly made her a household name. Melanie Ünterhausen has been enjoying an Indian summer, back playing with her girlhood heroes, reinventing herself as a left-winger. Pick of the bunch, however, has to be Jonte Bestatter, who had a coming-of-age season last year. Now at twenty-one, the target man striker is probably ready to take the SPL by storm, as the club look to go one better than last season.

Prediction: 5th. There is a feel good factor at FC Soessch right now, with the front line performing well together last season. One imagines they will finish just behind the big spenders.

Star Player: Allie Vacek | Rising Star: Jonte Bestatter

The Club: The Dale were an ever-present fixture in the Schottic second tier for nearly twenty years, turning the ability of misings out on promotion into something of an art form. They have been one of the top teams in that division for a number of years though, and their supporters are now finally seeing if their heroes can cut it in the SPL. It's hard to tell where the Grant Nean stops and the club begins, such is the manager's influence on the side. When you employ a boss like Nean you are buying an ethos as much as anything else, and all the players he brings in are carefully vetted to fit with his system. Nean's quick passing, high temp football is now synonymous with the club.

The Squad: Westholbrookdale could be the wildcard this season, and despite the loss of star attacker, Shitakuri, they are a force to be reckoned with going forward. Westpike’s Jayce Mellor has joined the club on a free transfer, in what has been a somewhat muted transfer window for the Dale.

Ron Hosker is a life long Dale player, having first donned the number-one jersey aged just nineteen. Defending has always been an issue for the club under Grant Nean, and to those ends, captain, James Banker, is vital player at the back. He, and centre-back partner, Bobby Tamandra, are both very confident with the ball at their feet, although the latter has a tendency to overplay things. Ian MacLauren made his big breakthrough during the Conference years, slotting in seamlessly next to Robbie McSuol and Kat Fell. McSuol, in his second spell at the club, is traditionally the one who pulls the strings, and is a real student of the Neanian system. Fell is a little more direct, and her decisiveness can be important in a club who have issues pulling the trigger. Mellor will sit just in front of the central three, and hopefully provide the link between the attack in midfield. East Vormsi born, Benkè Oulonagawi, has been a steady (but not spectacular) source of goals for the Dale, and is very good when the ball is played directly to his feet. Glen Corrigan is club youth product, who will accompany Oulonagwi in attack this season. From what we saw of him in the odd cameo last term, he has a bit to learn, but should be capable of making that step.

Prediction: 15th. They play some attractive stuff, but lack of a plan-B could be costly. We’ve been waiting for this team to come up with the goods since long before the UICA boycott era, and we may be waiting a while longer. Relegation is a real threat.

Star player: Robbie McSuol | Rising Star: Glen Corrigan

The Club: Giants of Christopheran football, the Pirates will now finally achieve their dream of playing in mainland Schottia. The club’s owners failed on two separate occasions with takeover bids, most recently in 2024, but were previously blocked from joining their cold-water cousins. The club have been bankrolled to a record number of league titles back in Port Christopher, and Mr Willox hasn’t been slow in stamping up the cash yet again. A brand new 56,000 seater stadium is a huge statement of intent for a club who have always been reaching for the stars.

The Squad: New Pirates manager, Tim Maitfield, hasn’t held back during the window, bringing in now fewer than four players, spending in excess of $15 million. Mr Willox will be desperate to get his hands on the SPL title sooner rather than later, and the blank chequebook approach seems – once again – to be his preferred method. Daughter of former New Dundee and Port Christopher manager, Lilou Reid, looks like a controversial signing, given the issues her father has had with the Pirates franchise. The striker, who has spent most of her career in Super-Llamaland, will be keen to let her performances do the talking, as she battles to win the fans over. Seven million for Lena Kiefer looks very steep for a 21-year-old right-back, but the board backed Maitfiled to the hilt in the pursuit of his number one target. On the face of it, Bishop midfielder, Alyss Driver, looks like a much more sensible signing. The Nepharim looks like your traditional ankle snapping, quick passing Pirates midfielder. West Coast Warriors skipper, Gabi Bear, will need to raise her game a bit, but Maitfield should familiar with what she can do, following their time together in the Schottic First Division.

Cooper Granely has grown into the number-one jersey, rather than being an automatic choice. The 27-year-old has done a good job, however, behind what has been a frequently changing back four. Codie Del Sera is promoted from the reserves to partner livewire, Tomas Nazario-Silva, in the centre of defence. Skipper Liam Goncalves, at left-back, is a real force going forward, and the threat he poses from set-pieces is considerable. Keifer will of course start at right-back, and will be under considerable pressure to hit the ground running. Seyda Artîn starts alongside Driver in what looks like a battling and bruising central midfield combination. In what is a conventional midfield four, Reay Cnocstanger is a real prospect for the club on the right. The flying winger made her first start for the club aged seventeen, and been one of the club’s best players throughout the boycott. Bear doesn’t have her counterpart’s pace on the left, but she is tough and wily, and could have a big role to play. Striker, Sasha Falkenrath, is the last of what was once a strong Cenian contingent at the Pirates. The young lad has a phenomenal scoring record in Port Christopher, and it will be interesting to see how he adapts to life in the SPL. Supposing she settles in, Reid will likely rise to the task alongside Falkenrath. With caps at U21 level, she has the pedigree to succeed.

Prediction: 2nd. This is a massive season for the Pirates, as it is for all the former SuperLeague clubs. Home advantage, coupled with the $15 million they have been able to spend, should give them a real shot at the title.

Star Player: Seyda Artîn | Rising Star: Reay Cnocstanger

by **Schottia** » Tue Mar 12, 2019 5:41 am

Matchday one - six

SPL
Cornellians 0–1 Marionville
New Belfast Warriors 0–1 FC Soessch
Port Sebastian 5–2 Dundee
Port James Athletic 1–0 Handon United
Lammerton 2–1 Blue Coast 1981
Willox Street Pirates 6–3 West Holbrookdale
Port Patrick United 1–0 Central Stars
San Marco Storm 0–0 Kings Park

As the SPL 31-32 season kicked off, the players may have been well aware that they were making a little bit of history. All eyes were on the Christopheran sides, as they took on their Mainland cousins domestically for the first time.

The Willox Street Pirates had invested big money in the close season, and as they took on West Holbrookdale at the PalmBet Arena, we were given an explosive introduction. The Pirates went two goals up in the opening fifteen minutes, thanks to a quick-fire Sasha Falkenrath double salvo. Reay Cnocstanger did well to make it to the touchline, delivering a low cross for the Cenian’s first, before Seyda Artîn’s deflected effort fell kindly for the 25-year-old, allowing him to drill home from close range. The Dale had chances as the fist half wore on, and Kat Fell was unfortunate to see her 18 metre effort whistle by the Cooper Granely’s far post. However, it was always the home side who looked more likely to score, and they made it three, as Lilou Reid converted a Falkenrath knock down on the stroke of halftime. Whatever Grant Nean said to the players during the intervile seamed to work, as they stunned the Pirates with two quick golas of their own. Benkè Oulonagawi first slotted home after running onto a Jayce Mellor through ball, before 20-year-old striker, Glen Corrigan, headed in a Robbie McSuol corner. Tim Maitfield’s side were under pressure at this point, with the visitors enjoying the lion’s share of possession. It was however, pace and precision (something the Dale sorely lack), which came to the Pirates aid. Lena Kiefer first gave them some breathing space; playing a neat one-two with Alyss Driver at the edge of the area, before finishing will a low strike into the bottom corner. The $7,000,000 rated wingback was then involved in the Pirates fifth, her deep cross finding Falkenrath at the back post for a hattrick. While the Dale pulled another one back through James Banker, it as too little too late, as a Gabi Bear goal in the dying minutes rounded off a high-scoring victory.

Interestingly, pre-season favourites, Handon United and Cornellians, both struggled to get their campaigns up and running this weekend. The giants of SPL football failed to register a single goal between them, let alone a point, as they made heavy work of Athletic and Marionville respectively. In a first half where they dominated possession, JK Cottle rattled his header against the bar, as United were unable to make their domination count. In the second half, Athletic grew in confidence and began to move the ball the move the ball around in midfield, with Nenzi-Frolt Erv, in particularly, making a composed competitive debut. The home side, in the end, were too slow to clear their lines, as they allowed Yunji to pounce and prod home a late winner.

Cornellians were all at sea as they toiled from the get-go against a new-look Marionville side. The seven times champions couldn’t make anything stick, as they put in the kind of sloppy performance that will have the Pirates rubbing their hands together. Marionville grew in stature, and began to boss the game, with Vaught and Morham, on the left, leaving the inexperienced Jack Kildonan looking, well… inexperienced. In the end the visitors made their possession count, as Jessica Grey latched onto an Ana Aytoun cross for the only goal of the game.

Elsewhere: Port Sebastian had no such difficulties, as a Keeva Crowe double helped them to a 5-2 win at home to Dundee. Much fancied FC Soessch recorded a deserved 1-0 win in New Belfast; Allie Vacek’s goal enough to see off a robust Warriors challenge in the second half. And Lammerton came from behind to get their campaign off to a winning start, as they played host to SPL new boys, Coast.

SPL
Marionville 0–0 Kings Park
Central Stars 4–3 San Marco Storm
West Holbrookdale 3–4 Port Patrick United
Blue Coast 1981 2–0 Willox Street Pirates
Handon United 2–2 Lammerton
Dundee 2–2 Port James Athletic
FC Soessch 0–0 Port Sebastian
Cornellians 1–0 New Belfast Warriors

Handon United were under pressure to get a result this weekend, after their poor performance in Port James. Things started off well enough for Jane Gullie’s side, as Rosie Donaldson picked out Magdalen Demetrius on the right-flank. The Apoxian showed Katherina Meyer zu Heide a clean set of heels before firing the ball low under the outstretched Kaige MacCílarook. Marc-André Onasi passed up a great chance to double United’s lead moments later, only to see his side hit on the counter attack. A clever forward ball from Jasper Valaran set up Kaytlyne Victoriane on the edge of the area and the Chromatik finished with aplomb. Once again United lacked decision in the final third, and Francisca Beckett did a good job of keeping Onasi quiet in the second half. The Hornets probably thought they’d snatched it, as Sett Horn powered in a Valaran corner with only ten minutes left on the clock; however, up stepped substitute, Ariadne Shroveday, making her fist appearance for the club. The Nepharim timed her run perfectly, skidding into a cross from Natalie Adams to salvage in important point for the champions.

Back in the days of the Super-League in Port Christopher, there were few contests so eagerly anticipated as the matches between Coast and the Pirates. Their move to the SPL seemed to have done nothing to dampen the rivalry, with fans from both sides selling out the Ocean Shores Stadium. The Pirates scored six in their previous match, and while on paper this should have been a forgone conclusion, Coast had other ideas. The home side shut up shop in the first half, with young Cade McDonald in particular putting in a heroic performance at the back. The Pirates must have been in a state of disbelief, when five minutes before halftime, Chad Duquez curled an incredible free kick past Cooper Granely to give their arch rivals the lead. Lightning struck for a second time on the 70 minute mark, when the Quebecois once again whipped in an decisive free kick. This time Granley was alert to it, but the Pirates keeper could only parry it into the path of Eleni Melas who converted from close range.

Jon Fotan will finally be able to breath, after getting his first points on the board as Cornellians manager. Poetically, the win came against a New Belfast Warriors side, for which Fotan made almost 200 appearances for as a player. This was not ‘vintage Eagles,’ but the Lochend outfit looked much improved from their no show against Marionville the previous weekend. Robert Craig and Johannas Ünterhausen moved the ball around well in the midfield, with young Sumireko Karuizawa pressing hard in attack alongside John Fyfe. With the match all square half an hour from time, Fyfe did excellently well to header a Karuizawa corner back across the face of goal, with Mirka Shitakuari on hand to volley home her first goal for the club.

Finally: Despite scoring three goals for the second week running, the Dale are still looking for their first win, after a Suzanne Tremblay double helped consign them to defeat against Port Patrick. A late Andy Fischer goal earned Central Stars all three points at home to San Marco Storm. While Port Sebastian and Soessch played out what was a fast-blooded 0-0 draw, which will have done nothing for either sides championship ambitions.

SPL
New Belfast Warriors 1–2 Marionville
Port Sebastian 0–0 Cornellians
Port James Athletic 0–5 FC Soessch
Lammerton 3–1 Dundee
Willox Street Pirates 2–2 Handon United
Port Patrick United 1–1 Blue Coast 1981
San Marco Storm 1–2 West Holbrookdale
Kings Park 1–3 Central Stars

Soessch put five goals past Athletic for no reply, as Davy Keats’ players look to prove that last season was no flash in the pan. Port James had actually made a decent start to the season, but their defence were battered and bruised for most of the ninety minutes, by a far superior Teufels attack. Allie Vacek scored one either side of half time, and their were also goals for Jonte Bestatter, James Inescort and Ben Ross as the visitors showed us they are able to get goals from all over the pitch. There were good performances at the back, too, with Ross in particular, who got himself on the score sheet, but also Emery Calvyn who brought a real combativeness to the proceedings.

Handon United, a side still looking for their first win this season, faced another tough contest as they headed to the PalmBet Arena to take on the Pirates. Jane Gullie’s side started well, with the midfield trio of Doanldson, Stenberg and Adams stamping their authority on the game early on. Solomon Johnson continued to misfire, however, as the young striker passed up a gilt-edged chance, after Magdalen Demetrius had done well to get the better of Liam Goncalves. United did take the lead though, after Louis Hordern powered past Gabi Bear to set up Marc André-Onasi for the easiest of finishes against his former club. It would seem, however, that there is something not quite right about this United side, and they soon found themselves on the back foot, after Reay Cnocstanger and Lilou Reid found the net either side of half time. United had no right to equalise – given the balance of play – but they did just that, ten minutes from time, as Demetrius got in behind the defence to fire a Ariadne Shroveday knockdown past Cooper Granely in the Pirates goal.

Lammerton recorded a very comfortable win over Dundee, in a match where Sett Horn came back to haunt his former club. The Cosumarite struggled a little with consistency in Nephara last season, but proved too much for the Panners, finding the net twice in the second half. Dundee had initially took the lead against the run of play, with Mark Keane slotting home after a great solo run. It didn’t take the Hornets long to level the scores, however, with Horn rising highest to head an Elspeth Glendening cross past Alan Städtischer-Young. The burly striker them hammered a shot just wide after being sent through by Kaytlyne Victoriane, before finally putting his side ahead with an angled strike from just inside the penalty area. In the second half it was all one-way traffic, and Lammerton put the game to bed with Mars Alexandersson finishing with a low strike from the edge of the D.

In other matches: Port Sebastian were once again let to rue missed chances, as they drew 0-0 with a bellow par Cornellians team. Marionville made it three defeats on the bounce for the Warriors, as Isaiah Vaught struck late for the Old Boys. And West Holbrook got their first points of the season, as goals from Ian MacLauren and Benkè Oulonagawi earned them a win over San Marco Storm.

SPL
Marionville 4–1 Central Stars
West Holbrookdale 1–2 Kings Park
Blue Coast 1981 4–2 San Marco Storm
Handon United 4–2 Port Patrick United
Dundee 2–7 Willox Street Pirates
FC Soessch 1–3 Lammerton
Cornellians 2–0 Port James Athletic
New Belfast Warriors 1–3 Port Sebastian

Lammerton produced a real statement of intent, with a 3-1 win over highflying Soessch at Gannon Park. The North Island side had looked good so far this season, but Johnny Smith’s side put in a five star performance to leave us in no doubt as to their title credential. Sett Horn made it four goals in three, holding off the challenge of Lilly McKinnely to beat Jim Black at his near post for the opener. Kaytlyne Victoriane then added a second, as she showed Alexi Ceanadach a clean set of heels, before latching onto a Francisca Beckett forward-ball. Soessch made some tweaks at half time, and it seemed to have some initial effect, as Melanie Ünterhause pulled one back on the hour mark. Lammerton proved too good, however, and after Horn did well to get his head to a Kati Meyer zu Heide cross,
Jasper Valara was on hand to apply the finish.

Dundee look to be a club who could really struggle in this new-look format, and they were well and truly hammered this weekend, by a free-scoring Pirates side. Proof that money can by happiness, Tim Maitfield’s side launched wave after wave of attacks, with wide players such as Cnocstanger, Kiefer, and Bear given far to much time and space to run with the ball. Lena Kiefer and Alyss Driver both got their names on the score sheet, while substitute, Lilíúisge, made a name for herself with a second half double, as the Dundee defence utterly collapsed.

United finally got three points on the board this week, with a 4-2 win over the Breakers, which will take some pressure off Jane Gullie. Ariadne Shroveday made her first start for the Central Handon side, replacing Solomon Johnson, and continued to make an impact as she scored one and set up another. Marc-André Onasi was also far better, and looked more like his old self, sprinting up and down the left flank. What will likely please Gullie most, however, the way the club responded to Port Patrick going 2-1 up just before half time. The team were un-phased, and kept their cool as they completed an impressive comeback with three second half goals.

Elsewhere: Another scraped win, will have done little to assure Cornellians fans that the team are capable mounting a title challenge. Porty left the Warriors in further trouble, as goals from Crowe, Klempner, and Alan gave them a convincing win. And an Eleni Melas double helped Coast to victory over Storm, in the San Marco derby.

Player and Manager of The Month Awards -- Month One

Player: Sett Horn -- Lammerton
After mixed fortunes in Nephara, Horn is back where he’s always played his best football. Big, strong, and not afraid to get stuck in, the man from Geminus 1. seems to have come back from his travels with a renewed tenacity.

Young Player: Jonte Bestatter – FC Soessch
Another young striker, Bestatter had a phenomenal breakthrough season last time round, and is looking more and more like the real deal. If he continues on this run of form, then a Schottia cap surely beckons.

Manager: Johnny Smith -- Lammerton
Smith’s tactics and recruitment have been spot on so far this season, enhancing his reputation as one of the best young managers in the game. It’s early days, but Lammerton certainly look to be on championship winning form.

SPL
Port Sebastian 1–0 Marionville
Port James Athletic 3–2 New Belfast Warriors
Lammerton 3–1 Cornellians
Willox Street Pirates 1–1 FC Soessch
Port Patrick United 2–2 Dundee
San Marco Storm 2–1 Handon United
Kings Park 0–3 Blue Coast 1981
Central Stars 0–1 West Holbrookdale

Lammerton continued on their hot run of form as they comprehensively defeated Cornellians at the City Ground. The Hornets looked like a well-oiled machine, and to add insult to injury for Cornellians, their own loanee, Roberts Kalniņš, put in a standout performance in a black and yellow jersey. The Eagles were caught napping at the back once too often, with the back four at sixes and sevens. By contrast, the Hornets’ central defence of Carlin and Van Cleef barely put a foot wrong. Sett Horn found the back of the net once again, and there were also goals for Elspeth Glendening, Jasper Valaran, and Johnny Smith’s side could have easily added more in the closing stages.

Port Sebastian are a side who have been quietly racking up some good results, and that trend continued as they played host to a strong Marionville. It was a very entertaining battle between teams who had very little to lose and everything to gain, with Colin Loweson continuing to shine. Cunix-Betva also put in a solid performance at the back, as Barry Gorman’s only summer signing showed their worth yet again. Marionville perhaps had the better of the chances, with Isaiah Vaught missing the goal by inches with a bullet header in the second half. Porty proved to be the more decisive however, and Emil Klempner’s side-footed effort, on 72 minutes, was the difference between the sides.

Blue Coast are a team who continue to surprise us this season, and their inexperienced side continued to punch above their weight with a 3-0 win at Kings Park. Eric Desmond’s second spell at the Royals has not been a happy one so far, and the team badly missed the suspended, Billy McCorralie. It was, once again, the left boot of Chad Duquez which did the damage, as the Quebecois followed up a sizzler a strike with a second half penalty to take his tally to five for the season.

In other results: Handon United’s stop-start season hit another bump, as goals from William Bressay and Kira Nirie-Smith meant they travelled back from San Marco empty handed. Chase Ziegenhorn scored a late equaliser for Port Patrick, to deny Dundee a first win of the season. And FC Soessch put on a strong defensive display, as they earned a 1-1 draw away to the Pirates.

SPL
Marionville 4–1 West Holbrookdale
Blue Coast 1981 2–1 Central Stars
Handon United 4–1 Kings Park
Dundee 0–0 San Marco Storm
FC Soessch 3–1 Port Patrick United
Cornellians 0–1 Willox Street Pirates
New Belfast Warriors 2–4 Lammerton
Port Sebastian 3–0 Port James Athletic

Cornellians were left languishing in the bottom half of the table following a 1-0 how defeat to the Willox Street Pirates, who stay fifth after six games. Given just how little time managers receive in modern football, Jon Fotan will already be feeling the pressure, only three months after taking the job. Too many stray passes was the story of the day for the Eagles, who are badly missing the likes of Sibučić and Gryphon. The Pirates aren’t perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but with a robust centre of midfield and pace in the attack, they look like an effective unit. Johannas Ünterhausen must have thought he had done enough to earn a share of the points for the Eagles, only to see his 86th minute strike ruled out for an offside. As it was, Sasha Falkenrath’s first half goal separated the sides.

The result meant that Handon United are up into the top half of the table, jumping four places into seventh. At points it was like watching the United of old, as three goals in the last half hour saw them comfortably past city neighbours, Kings Park. The game also brought a first goal of the season for Solomon Johnson, who turned in a Natalie Adams cross, after replacing Ariadne Shroveday. There were also goals from Line Stenberg, and Magdalen Demetrius (2), as United look to have finally steadied the ship. Their third defeat of the season leaves the Royals hovering above the relegation zone.

It’s Lammerton, however, who remain two points clear at the top of the league, after ensuring that the Warriors SPL participation remains pointless in more way than one. In the opening six matches, the Hornets have looked every inch the team, who reached the Champions’ Cup final four years ago. Kati Meyer zu Heide continued to impress, with the teenage left-back setting up the third of Lammertons four goals. Another player who looks to have recaptured some form is Kaytlyne Victoriane, who scored the pick of goals, with a side footed half volley from the angle of the box.

Elsewhere: Avi Renning helped inspire Port Sebastian to an emphatic victory over Athletic, keeping them second behind the Hornets. Marionville stay in the UICA spots, after a Jessica Grey double saw off West Holbrookdale. And Coast remain third, as goals from Jralv-Nexev Pec and William Bishop-Weon earned them all three points in their match with Central Stars

.                         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Lammerton                6    5   1   0    17    8   +9    16
 2 Port Sebastian           6    4   2   0    12    3   +9    14
 3 Blue Coast 1981          6    4   1   1    13    6   +7    13
 4 Marionville              6    4   1   1    11    4   +7    13
 5 Willox Street Pirates    6    3   2   1    17   10   +7    11
 6 FC Soessch               6    3   2   1    11    5   +6    11
 7 Handon United            6    2   2   2    13   10   +3     8
 8 Port Patrick United      6    2   2   2    11   13   −2     8
 9 Cornellians              6    2   1   3     4    5   −1     7
10 Port James Athletic      6    2   1   3     6   14   −8     7
11 Central Stars            6    2   0   4     9   12   −3     6
12 West Holbrookdale        6    2   0   4    11   17   −6     6
13 San Marco Storm          6    1   2   3     8   11   −3     5
14 Kings Park               6    1   2   3     4   11   −7     5
15 Dundee                   6    0   3   3     9   19  −10     3
16 New Belfast Warriors     6    0   0   6     6   14   −8     0

SBC.sch/sport (Domestic Sports Newswire of Schottia)

Who is online