SBC.sch/sport (Domestic Sports Newswire of Schottia)
Posted: Mon Oct 05, 2015 3:43 am
by Schottia
Schottic Premier League Champions/Runners-up 2031-2032: Willox Street Pirates/Cornellians 2030-2031: Handon United/FC Soessch** (Schottic Football Conference) 2029-2030: Handon United/Cornellains** (Schottic Football Conference) 2028-2029: Handon United/Lammerton 2027-2028: Cornellians/Handon United 2026-2027: Handon United/Cornellians 2025-2026: Handon United/ Cornellians 2024-2025: Cornellians/ Port Sebastian 2023-2024: Cornellians/ Lammerton 2022-2023: Cornellians/ Lammerton 2021-2022: Cornellians/ Lammerton 2020-2021: Cornellians/ Port Sebastian 2019-20: Port Sebastian/ Handon United 2018-19: Cornellians FC/ Kings Park 2017-18: New Belfast Warriors/ Handon United* 2016-17: Port Sebastian/ Handon United** 2015-16: Handon United/ King's Park 2014-15: Handon United/ FC Soessch 2013-14: Handon United/ FC Soessch 2012-13: Handon United/ New Belfast Warriors 2011-12: King's Park/ Handon United 2010-11: New Belfast Warriors/ Port Sebastian 2009-10: FC Soessch/ Handon United 2008-09: Handon United/ Lammerton 2007-08: FC Soessch/ Marionville 2006-07: Handon United/ King's Park 2005-06: FC Soessch/ Handon United 2004-05: Handon United/ FC Soessch 2003-04: Handon United/ New Belfast Warriors 2002-04: Handon United/ Lammerton 2001-02: Port Sebastian/ FC Soessch 2000-01: Handon United/ Port Sebastian 1999-00: New Belfast Warriors/ Handon United 1998-99: FC Soessch/ Handon United 1997-98: Handon United/ FC Soessch 1996-97: New Belfast Warriors/ Port James Athletic 1995-96: New Belfast Warriors/ Handon United 1994-95: Handon United/ King's Park 1993-94: Lammerton/ Handon United 1992-93: FC Soessch/ Lammerton 1991-92: Port Sebastian/ Lammerton 1990-91: Handon United/ Port James Athletic 1989-90: New Belfast Warriors/ Handon United 1988-89: New Belfast Blues/ New Belfast Warriors 1987-88: New Belfast Blues/ FC Soessch 1986-87: Handon United/ Kings Park 1985-86: Port James Athletic/ Port Sebastian 1984-85: Handon United/ La Gorlions 1983-84: Lammerton/ New Belfast Blues 1982-83: Marionville/ Handon United 1981-82: La Gorlions/ Marionville 1980-81: FC Soessch/ Kings Park 1979-80: Kings Park/ Port Sebastian 1978-79: Handon United/ Port Sebastian 1977-78: Handon United/ Dundee 1976-77: Lammerton/ La Gorlions 1975-76: Lammerton/ Port James Athletic 1974-75: Lammerton/ Handon United 1973-74: Port Sebastian/ Lammerton 1972-73: Lammerton/ Port Sebastian 1971-72: Kings Park/ D'Itille 1970-71: Port Patrick United/ New Island
Schottic Sporting Achievements
Football/ Soccer
World Cup
WC 67: Did not enter WC 68: Did not qualify (8th of 8 in group) WC 69: Did not qualify (6th of 8 ) WC 70: Did not qualify (3rd of 8 ) WC 71: Did not qualify (4th of 8 ) WC 72: Did not qualify (3rd of 7) WC 73: Group Stage (4th of 4) WC 74: Group Stage (4th of 4) WC 75: Did not qualify (3rd of 7) WC 76: Did not qualify (3rd of 7) WC 77: Quarterfinal WC 78: 3rd Place WC 79: Champions WC 80: Round of Sixteen
Cup of Harmony
CoH 61: Group stage (4th of 4) CoH 62: Group Stage (3rd of 4) CoH 63: Group Stage (3rd of 4) CoH 64: Ro16 CoH 68: Runner-up (Co-Hosts)
Copa Rushmori: CR XXXII: Quarterfinal CR XXXIII: 3rd Place[/background]
Independent Associations Cup IAC I: Champions IAC II: Runner-up (Co-Hosts) IAC III: Champions IAC IV: Quarterfinal
Tyran Cup (Regional Tournament)
TC 1: Runner-up
Di Bradini Cup (U-21 World Cup)
DBC 32: Ro16 DBC 33: Champions DBC 34: Tournament was cancelled DBC 35: 3rd Place DBC 36: Quarterfinal DBC 37: Ro16 DBC 38: Group Stage (3rd of 4) DBC 39: Group Stage (3rd of 4) DBC 40: 3rd Place DBC 41: Group Stage (3rd of 4) DBC 42: Ro16
Olympics (U-23)
IX: Men (Quarterfinal) Women (Quarterfinal) X: Men (Third in group) Women (Second in group) XII: Men (Semi-final) Women (Runners-up)
Sporting World Cup (U-18)
U18 I: Quarterfinal U18 II: Quarterfinal U18 III: Did not enter
Under 15 World Cup
U15 8: Ro16 U15 9: Champions (Hosts)
Gridiron Football
Baptism of Iron XVII: 3rd place | World Bowl XXV: Did not Qualify World Bowl XXVI: Round of sixteen World Bowl XXVII: Round of Sixteen World Bowl XXVIII: Champions World Bowl XXIV: Quarterfinal World Bowl XXX: 3rd Place World Bowl XXXI: Runner-up
Nation States Tennis Tour
Tour titles: Cityscapes Open (Doubles) - Westfelt/Gates | Nassau Bay Open (Doubles) - Westfelt/Gates | Whitehaven Open (Singles) Catherine Krumins
*Posted on regional news thread. **Results are only for historical context.
Posted: Tue Oct 06, 2015 5:17 am
by Schottia
Schottic Premier League
Preview
---------------- Handon Utd Stadium: Harbour Hill, 55,000 Average attendance: 51,373 Manager: Neil Scarton Colours: White and maroon with maroon shorts. Location: Handon Nick name: United ---------------------
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GK. Lucas D'Araby 32, Schottia
RB Robert Peszke 33, Weilkilas LB Jack Gordon 31, Schottia CB John McCann 32, Schottia CB Kevin Scougle 22, Schottia
RM Gaston Avelione 30, Schottia LM David Blengen 25, Schottia DM Marko Simonsen 29, Semarland CM Colin Donaldson 34, Schottia CM Alfred Seggerson 26, Schottia CF Nik Konstidios 23, Schottia
---subs---
RD Simon Johnson 17, Schottia CB Henni Kellermann 18, Schottia L/CM Aya Bernman 17, Schottia RM Deek Rotter 17, Schottia DM Lisa Murphy 19, Schottia CF Glen Stephens 22, Schottia
Schottia's most famous side Handon United have been crowned Champions nine times in the last fifteen years. In terms so support and finance they have been little rivalled in the SPL and have always had their pick of the leagues best players. After narrowly losing out to Port Sebastian and New Belfast Warriors respectively, for the last two years, they will be keen to make amends this time round. With a host of Schottic internationalists in their ranks, they will be there or there about come the end of the season. Their Under-18s side also won the Horhalne Internationa Youth Tournament in Semarland, defeating Barbury Town in the final, so expect to see a few of these youngster feature over the course of the season. This current squad is far from the best United have ever fielded, but with strong experienced players in every position, they will take some beating.
Star Player: Gaston Avelione | Rising Star: Aya Bernman
Prediction: 1st. We will need to see what Cornellians are capable of, and there will be a challange from the likes of Soessch, Port Sebastian, and the Warriors, but United are most Bookies' pick.
--------------------------------- FC Soesch Stadium: Gannon park, 38,000 Average attendance: 26,229 Manager: Jurgen Peters Colours: Scarlet and Black stripes Location: Soessch Nick name: Die rote Teufel
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GK. Victor Drunnden 34, Nordkrusen
RB Mark Walker 26, Schottia LB Stav Nattermann 29, Schottia CB Nathan McDonald 29, Schottia CB Chris Okywä 29, Schottia
DM Gerhart Bitter 25, Schottia CM Till Ümann 21, Schottia AMR Luke Knight 32, Schottia AML Christopher Dickson 23, Schottia AMC Konstantin Holstad 25, Polar Islandstates
CF Bruno Schwartz 28, Schottia
---subs---
LB/M Jan Ümann 19, Schottia AML Sam Buckley 31, Schottia CF Broad Dalehun 20, Schottia
The biggest side haling from Schottia's North Island, FC Soessch bring with them a large support. Their mangers Jurgen Peters, who is known for a measured approach the game, takes very few risks and makes very few mistakes, meaning the side are consistent finishers. Bolstered by the signing of DBC 33 winner Chris Dickson, and Till Ümann's return from injury, they will be hoping to do better than last season's third place finish.
Star Player: Konstantin Holstad (Polar Islandstates) | Rising Star: Till Ümann
Prediction: 4th. Should gain a first taste of UICA football, but Cornellians will muscle ahead of them.
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Port Sebastian Stadium: Dyerton, 30,000 Average attendance: 29,875 Manager: Conner Watts Colours: Light blue, with dark blue shorts Location: Handon Nick name: Porty, or the Steel men
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GK Chris Gonzaö 26, Schottia
RB Bobby Beatie 32, Schottia LB Paul Doig 21, Schottia CB Max Peterson 26, Schottia CB Billy Goodwen 31, Schottia
CM Jack Baxter 33, Schottia CM Emeline Millet 23, Ko-oren AMR Jonathan Bia 19, Schottia / Dahamy AML Scott Danner 28, Schottia
SS Paul Coine 29, Schottia CF Fred Dawson 21, Schottia
---subs---
GK Harry Gould 19, Schottia CM Milo Mavor 20, Schottia FC Kaija Koppel 19, Schottia (East Vormsi)
Forming the other half of the big Handon derby with Handon United, theirs is a rivalry which has continued for over 100 years. The Champions of two years ago are seen very much as the working man's team in the city, and have always had this gritty image. After saying goodbye to players like Gary Corsie and Mark Allen the side have had to do some rebuilding work, but they will be one to watch this season. With the top four this year competing in the UICA, this will be a minimum expectation placed on manger Conner Watts. In spite of the of the recent exodus, Porty still have a formidable squad, with one of the best midfields in the league.
Star Player: Emeline Millet (Ko-oren) | Rising Star: Joey Bia
Prediction: 5th. Not enough improvment on last season.
--------------------- New Belfast Warriors Stadium: Ashley Road, 22,000 Average attendance: 17,312 Manager: Jock Sonny Colours: Green and orange shirt, white shorts Location: New Belfast Nick name: The Whalers ---------------------
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GK Keith Cumberton 33, Schottia
RB Karl Visser 28, Grossprussia LB Tom Blantan 25, Schottia CB Kenny McDermot 27, Schottia CB James Blantery 31, Schottia
L/CM Scott Cooper 26, Schottia CM Kris Scott 27, Schottia AMR Craig O'Maramy 23, Schottia AML Jack Brier 19, Schottia
CF Ivan Archic 31, Nekulturnya CF Callum Frir 25, Schottia
---subs---
RB Victoria Schute 21, Schottia CF Ian Willson 17, Schottia
The reigning champions, winning their first title in fifteen years are New Belfast Warriors. A victim of their own success, they have seen Jon Fotan, Elisa Rivera, and manager Jane Gullie all head for the exit door over the last couple of seasons. New manager Jock Sonny, will be hoping he can do enough to get one over his former charges Cornellians and keep the momentum going as the side look to retain the title. With Craig O'Maramy and Ivan Archic still on the books, Warriors are a devastating side in attack, and the signing of Lammerton midfielder Kris Scott is potentially pivotal. Sonny's work with Cornellians in the MPL, and winning the DBC Should earn him some respect, and he will be keen to take on from where Gullie left off.
Star Player: Ivan Archic (Nekulturnya) | Rising Star: Jack Brier.
Prediction: 3rd. Holding on to the title will be hard, but not out of the question.
------------------ King's Park Stadium: Lochely Green, 14,000 Average attendance: 11,867 Manager: Eric Desmond (player-manager) Colours: Navy Blue shirt, white shorts. Location: Handon Nick name: The Royals ------------------
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GK Cliff Smith 30, Schottia
RB Simon Smithly 34, Schottia LB Deigo Marr 28, Schottia CB Peter Gaunt 26, Schottia CB Jullian Weddel 35, Schottia
CM Erin Braden 20, Schottia CM Jake Halls 26, Schottia AMR Felix Scholl 24, Schottia AML Darren O'Brian 25, Schottia
CF Pete McGilvary 20, Schottia CF Alan Doolan 29, Schottia
---subs---
CM Eric Desmond 37, Schottia
Kings park are a side in the difficult position of having punched above their weight for far too long. Former midfielder Eric Desmond is promoted from player to boss, in an attempt to reverse a worrying trend of finishing well down the league. They are the smallest of the main Handon sides, but they do have some quality players capable of doing damage. Darren O'Brian is a Schottic internationalist, and Alan Doolan is a twenty goal a season striker up front. They have also boosted their chances with the capture of highly rated midfielder Erin Braden from the Woman's Super-League. The Royals fans would very much like to see a top four push, but mid table is more likely.
Star Player: Darren O'Brian | Rising Star: Erin Braden
Prediction: 9th. Not quite good enough, they'll need time to rebuild the squad.
------------------ La Gorlions Stadium: Danu Parc, 16,000 Average attendance: 12,554 Manager: Pascal Voitle Colours: White and yellow shirt, white shorts. Location: La Gorla Nick name: The Lions ------------------
CM Fredrick Houben 26, Cosumar CM Thomas Guenter 31, Nordkrusen AMR Frank Samules 24, Schottia AML Alan Rokesmith 32, Schottia
SS Jago Avelione 32, Schottia CF Davy Ellan 29, Schottia
Danu Parc is the Lions' fortress. Nestled high in the North Island Mountains, the side from the capital of Schottia's French Speaking Region have a fantastic home record. The advantage of training at altitude, coupled with some very talented players makes them a good outside bet for a top four place. With the likes of former Cosumar DBC squad call-up Fredrick Houben, along with Jago Avelione, and Davy Ellen in attack, they will pick up their share of points this year.
Star Player: Fredrick Houben (Cosumar) | Rising Star: Christy Snell
Prediction: 6th. Best of the rest so to speak, but they might surprise a few people.
------------------ Marionville Stadium: Allen Dixon Arena, 25,000 Average attendance: 18,611 Manager: Basil Bunton Colours: Grey and Black shirt and shorts Location: Marionville Nick name: The Old boys ------------------
----------------- GK Doug Kent 37, Schottia
RB Oliver Scott 19, Schottia LB Joseph Finders 35, Schottia CB David Daller 26, Schottia CB Nicolas Stains 29, Schottia
CM Scott Lewis 26, Schottia CM Barry Stewart 27, Schottia AMR Jarred Clotterman 19, Schottia AML Jonny Bruce 31, Schottia AMC Nial Constantine 30, Schottia
CF Michael Maxwell 22, Schottia
---subs---
DC Artjom Järvinen 26, Schottia (East Vormsi)
Another big side who have experienced something of a talent purge of late. The Old Boys finished fifth last season after the sale of Larry Watt and Lachlan Frazer was tempered slightly by the signing of Gary Corsie on loan. The will have it all to do if they want to repeat that feat, and with the inclusion of Cornellians in the league, and the inability to replace Corsie, it could be just too much to ask.
Star Player: David Daller | Rising Star: Michael Maxwell
Prediction: 7th. We can only see the Marionville slipping down the table.
------------------ Port James Athletic Stadium: City of Port James Stadium, 32,000 Average attendance: 27,971 Manager: John Hume Colours: Purple shirt and shorts. Location: Port James Nick name: The Seasiders ------------------
------------------ GK Jack Ruver 29, Schottia
RB Nico Luis 39, Schottia LB Jim Tanner 27, Schottia CB Stevie Orwell 26, Schottia CB Donald Stewart 31, Schottia
CM Willie Erskin 26, Schottia CM Alan Pertson 21, Schottia AMR Joseph Preca 24, Eusebian Islands AML James Kieth 27, Schottia
SS Lenard Koor 20, Schottia CF Francis Keelinan 24, Schottia
With a little bit of luck Athletic could be up there at the sharp end, without it they are firmly mid-table. They have good players in every position, but they've got no one whom you could point to as a game changer. Playing in the west of the country they are the only big team in their area and have therefore always had a good following.
Star Player: Francis Keelinan | Rising Star: Alan Pertson
Prediction: 8th. A respectable finish, but a side of their size should be looking for better.
------------------ Hollin Stadium: Belker Stadium, 10,600 Average attendance: 10,139 Manager: Jack Hosker Colours: Red, white and blue Location: Linellie Nick name: The Belker boys ------------------
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GK Varry Coen 24, Schottia
RB Derek Loya 25, Schottia LB Robert Morris 26, Schottia CB Dan Yarrow 33, Schottia CB Baxter James 30, Port Christopher
CM Palle Ellsmere 20, Polaaskan CM Stephen McAlly 29, Schottia AMR Chris Jack 23, Schottia AML Greame Frisq 30, Schottia
SS Calum Dehlar 25, Schottia CF Beet Timons 27, Schottia
The little team from the Belker Region have a bustling support, who always turn out in numbers to support the local side. More than just plucky underdogs, the side feature the likes of Schottic caps Chirs Jack, Robert Morris and Steve McAlly. In addition Polaaskan youngster Palle Ellsmere is a prodigious talent in the midfield. They have finished highly in the past, but in truth it will take a lot for them to get one over the sides ahead of them.
Star Player: Chris Jack | Rising Star: Palle Ellsmere (Polaaskan)
Prediction: 11th: They can definitely go toe to toe with the chasing pack, but they will maybe just fall short.
------------------ Lammerton Stadium: Lammerton City Ground, 24,000 Average attendance: 23,688 Manager: John Sedder Colours: Yellow and Black shirt, black shorts Location: Lammerton Nick name: The Hornets ------------------
CM Timo Düd 25, Schottia CM Arron Marcie 29, Schottia CM Jeff Vance 31, Schottia
RF John McCormack 20, Schottia LF Billy Small 28, Schottia CF John Cooper 26, Schottia
---subs---
CF Nathan Clark 23, Schottia
A solid side with good players throughout the starting eleven, but for some reason they always seem to fail when it comes to mounting a title challenge. Right up their in terms of support, the Hornets play in the heart of the country in the state of the art City Ground, which they share with rivals Lammerton City. It will be interesting to see how they fair this year after forward John McCormack made a big splash helping Schottia to third in the DBC 35.
Star Player: John Cooper | Rising Star: John McCormack
Prediction: 10th. Not much in this one, might be as high as 6th, or as low as 12th.
------------------ Dundee Stadium: Granier Road Park, 11,000 Average attendance: 6,547 Manager: Nick Rossy Colours: Navy blue shirt, white shorts Location: Dundee Nick name: The Panners ------------------
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GK Johnny Smith 34, Schottia
RB James Berkeley 26, Darvale LB Gavin Karry 30, Schottia CB Mike Danskin 35, Schottia CB Keith Paul 28, Schottia
CM David Firth 31, Schottia CM Joe McCingus 30, Schottia AMR Barry Drite 21, Schottia AML Aaron Good 30, Schottia
Stayed up last season by the skin of their teeth, and it will take a big effort to do the same again. Try as you might, it is impossible to predict where the results are going to come for this team who really needed to have added more in the window. Their small legion of fans are fiercely passionate and have something of a reputation for violence, giving the club a generally bad image. They must look at Kim Coultan signing for Crawford City for $14 million and weep, considering they sold her to Jottnar Kallsmudden for a couple of thousand.
Star Player: James Berkeley (Darvale) | Rising Star: Barry Drite
Prediction 19th. A long, hard, season awaits.
------------------ Hillstreet Stadium: Flodden Road, 12,500 Average attendance: 4,060 Manager: Harry Goor Colours: Yellow maroon and white shirt, maroon shorts Location: Huntly Nick name: The Hunters ------------------
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GK Colin Munro 33, Schottia
RB James Jennie 25, Schottia LB Clive Coumly 29, Fortru CB Stephen Gregg 32, Schottia CB John Andersonl 26, Schottia
CM Moe Viscount 36, Schottia CM Kevin Morton 30, Schottia MR Jose Sanmarco 24, Schottia ML Biran Craine 29, Schottia
CF Dirk Levee 31, Schottia CF Jak Leavie 20, Port Christopher
For a small side, Hillstreet did outstandingly well last season. Much of their success was down to striker Nik Konstidious however, who has subsequently left to join up with Handon United. This has put the side in the very difficult position of needing to find goals from somewhere. It's going to be hard, and it's going to be bottom half of the table, but with the battling Kevin Morton in midfield, you feel there is some hope for them.
Star Player: Kevin Morton | Rising Star: Jak Leavie (Port Christopher)
Prediction: 15th. They will stay up... Probabaly.
------------------ D'Itille Stadium: Belvour parc, 7,000 Average attendance: 4,269 Manager: Liam Seawel Colours: Green and white shirt, white shorts Location: Annacey Nick name: Annacien ------------------
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GK Gary Thornly 34, Schottia
RB Ellian Larraux 27, Schottia LB Luke Corsby 21, Schottia CB Duncan Harris 28, Schottia CB Marius Pujuneb 25, Schottia
CM Bruce Kewt 28, Schottia CM Abbus Atamei 25, Hemar MR/C Caitlin L'Attue 18, Schottia ML Ewan Swain 26, Schottia
CF Ian Paul 30, Schottia CF Lucas Yashvil 23, Schottia
So much for D'Itille is reliant on teen midfielder Caitlin L'Attue, a massive player for the Schottic U-21s. She is the by far the best player the small town club have produced in decades, and they have somehow managed to keep a hold of her. For all their failings the side do play some attractive football and they may pull off the odd shock here or there. Barring and injury to L'Attue, they will be able to look for a mid table finish.
Star Player: Caitlin L'Attue | Rising Star: Luke Corsby
Prediction: 12th. They'll need to watch their backs, but top of the bottom half is not out of the question.
------------------ Allous VB Stadium: Bergstadt Park, 8,500 Average attendance: 5,549 Manager: Rudi Khol Colours: Black and green shirt, black shorts Location: Soessch Nick name: The Emeralds ------------------
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GK. Walter Queen 28, Schottia
RB John McLeod 25, Schottia LB David Hüne 27, Schottia CB Moritz Saxone 27, Schottia CB Danne Volmater 30, Schottia
CM Jonathan Farrov 26, Schottia CM Clause Rickart 23, Schottia AMR Boris Chrankru 28, Schottia AML James Glewis 19, Schottia AMC Axl Dresl 30, Schottia
CF Lawrence Kyte 25, Schottia
One of the clubs from Schottia's second city Soessch, VB are a not really anything special. One of those clubs who set up every season with the goal of staying in the league and nothing else, they can be a little painful to watch at times. Former Schottic cap Walter Queen is a great shot stopper and sees plenty of the action between the sticks.
Star Player: Walter Queen | Rising Star: James Glewis
18th. It might be regional football next season for this side.
------------------ New Belfast Blues Stadium: Straks Park, 15,000 Average attendance: 11,000 Manager: Nail Leeten Colours: Blue and white shirt, white shorts Location: New Belfast Nick name: The Blues ------------------
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GK Jim Black 21, Schottia
RB Nicolas Slone 28, Schottia LB Pitr Draknston 23, Schottia CB Ross Hardcoart 27, Schottia CB Peter Jnist 26, Schottia
CM Danny Martin 30, Schottia CM Gordon Grant 31, Schottia MR Sam Saxon 20, Schottia ML James Trusen 26, Schottia
CF David Millar 27, Schottia CF Jack Lamb 26, Schottia
---subs---
CF Chris Strivin 28, Schottia
New Belfast Blues have always been the poorer relation in the city, having forever played second fiddle to the Warriors. They are a permanent fixture in the top division, and are one of only three sides which have never been relegated, despite going close a fair few times. They always struggle to really mount an assault on the top of the table, and have found themselves in the bottom half more often than not.
Star Player: David Millar | Rising Star: Sam Saxon
Prediction: 14th
------------------ Cornellians FC Stadium: Lochend Stadium, 80,000 Average attendance: 47,381 average from last season, not the MPL. Manager: Alexander Pearce Colours: White and green shirts, white shorts. Location: Lochend (Greater Handon) Nick name: The Eagles ------------------
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GK. Jeremy McNott 23, Schottia RB. Santiago Lowe 28, Adiron LB. Triffid Ramsey 23, Nephara CB. Scott Burton 23, Schottia CB. Michael Pabadakis 25, New Edom RM/AMC. Willie McIntyre 29, Schottia CM. Mark Kelman 26, Schottia CM. Tsumugi Narita 17, Kirisaki AMC/L. Cosmin Dobrescu 26, Jedoria CF. Eloisa Purinton 23, Gloriax CF. Daniel Cleopas 25, New Edom
---subs---
GK. Sebastian Muller 29, Shalum GK. David Prince 20, Schottia RB. Max Scocroft 25, Schottia LB. John Yardlee 22, Schottia CB. Torsten Visser 29, Schottia CB. Gary Hamilton 24, Schottia CB. Jake Dooner 32, Schottia RLM. Larry Goodman 18, Schottia RM. Jeff Dennis 29, Venta de la Messila RM. Mark Freute 18, Schottia LM. Eula Richard 22, Venta de la Messila CM. Phillip Hanalii 25, Schottia CM. Lucius Hirtius Carus 22, Roman ACM. Ismal Keirut 22, Schottia CF. Dahrla Bhosz 29, Deadora CF. Damien Sturridge21, Ghant
Cornellians were set up four years ago to compete for Schottia in the Multivers Premier League. When the tournament failed to run last season, The Eagles were allowed to enter the Schottic domestic system, starting out in Regional Division B. This wasn't without some controversy as the side stormed the league winning promotion to the top flight. While many have argued that the two seasons of sponsorship they have received gives them an unfair advantage, organisers had little choice as they could hardly see an 80,000 seater stadium mothballed and a huge coaching and playing staff made redundant. Finishing second in their first MPL season, and picking up the cup as they finished third the year after, Cornellian are undoubtedly one of the best sides in the world. With former Cosumarite captain Alexander Pearce now at the helm, and a world-class striker in Eloisa Purinton, they will be expecting to be in the title race this season. One of the only question marks hanging over them will be how long they can keep together a squad of that size and standard with their current budget.
Prediction: 2nd. They may find adjusting to SPL life a little harder than some expect.
------------------ Granton Vale Stadium: Sea Park, 13,000 Average attendance: 8,469 Manager: Dan Brown Colours: Grey shirt, grey shorts. Location: Granton Nick name: The Beachcombers ------------------
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GK. Lee MacCraken 37, Schottia
RB John Steel 32, Schottia LB Dave Cranshaws 26, Schottia CB Duncan Johnson 33, Schottia CB Kris Cortandon 29, Schottia
RM Will Rybka 25, Schottia LM Anna White 18, Schottia CM Dave Doonden 34, Schottia CM Tommy Wilson 30, Schottia ACM Alan Groom 27, Schottia
CF Jack Hobbs 18, Schottia
Granton Vale won their regional division to gain promotion last season, and are a gritty tough tackling side. They may have sold star midfielder Aaron Marcie to Lammerton, but they should still have enough bite about them to stay up. Dave Doonen and Tommy Wilson are a pair of wily old foxes in the centre of the park, and Jack Hobbs has been capped at under-18 level.
Star Player: Tommy Wilson | Rising star: Jack Hobs
Prediction: 13th. Should have a good season back in the top flight.
------------------ Lammerton City Stadium: Lammerton City Ground, 24,000 Average attendance: 3,378 Manager: Rodger Green Colours: White shirt with blue trim, blue shorts Location: Lammerton Nick name: The Princes, or City ------------------
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GK Arnan Yulcic 25, Schottia
RB Thomas Carmichael 25, Shalum LB Brock Fuller 28, Schottia CB Gordon Centon 25, Schottia CB Howard Sighthill 26, Schottia
CM Kyle Ingles 27, Schottia CM Karen Seywel 25, Schottia CM Matt Skea 32, Schottia
Lammerton City have always struggled under the shadow of their arch rivals Lammerton, whom they share a stadium with. Despite a huge drop in attendances, their manager Rodger Green has always kept their heads above water and the have a bit of quality about them. No one thinks this will be anything other than a tough struggle for the Princes, but the addition of Shalumite right back Thomas Carmichael gives them some hope.
Star Player: Karen Seywel | Rising Star: Ikas Nike
Prediction: 16th. Yet again this team will have the spark they need to stay up.
------------------ Berwick United Stadium: Gauld Park, 15,000 Average attendance: 5,466 Manager: Alan Cross Colours: Dark Blue and white Location: South Berwick Nick name: The Seaguls ------------------
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GK Joe Mullens 30, Schottia
RB Tom Martin 26, Schottia LB John Kettle 24, Schottia CB Dougie Peters 37, Schottia CB Millie Feltman 24, Schottia
CM Jonny McDonald 27, Schottia CM Scott Vincent 22, Schottia AMR Jack Glover 24, Schottia AML Walter Seenin 19, Schottia
CF John Boyde 25, Schottia CF Brian Graham 23, Schottia
Another promoted side, the Seagulls will have a huge up hill task if they want to achieve anything this season. Key for the New Island side will be their home form, if they can pick up some wins in South Berwick, things might look brighter for them.
Star Player: Scott Vincent | Rising Star: Walter Seenin
Prediction: 17th. One of the teams who need to improve a lot in order to stay up.
------------------ Stalker Bay Stadium: The Bay Ground, 7,000 Average attendance: 3,400 Manager: Davy Martin Colours: Black shirts, red shorts Location: Stalker Bay Nick name: The Last Stand ------------------
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GK Pytor Galasic 29, Schottia
RB Tomas Frityl 27, Schottia LB John Howard 26, Schottia CB Nick Lanswarten 30, Schottia CB Ian Todd 27, Schottia
DM Gordon Skidon 29, Schottia CM Lia Galbraith 20, Schottia CM Mark Danan 27, Schottia AM Stephen Rooney 23, Schottia
CF Kevin Stanton 24, Schottia CF Jessica Knox 19, Schottia
Not a patch on the once proud Stalker Bay side of old, it surprised a lot of people when they came up last season. It is almost impossible to see anything other than relegation for The Last Stand, who lack quality in almost every department.
Star Player: Ian Todd | Rising Star: Lia Galbraith
Prediction: 20th. Only a miracle will stop them finishing rock-bottom.
OOC: Other than those playing for Cornellians, there aren't many overseas players in the league at present. Most of them were signed a few seasons back with the best of intentions, I just never got round to RPing them much. If anyone notices any mistakes in terms of age etc, then just let me know and I'll change it.
Posted: Wed Oct 07, 2015 4:41 am
by Schottia
Matchday One - Twelve
MD1 Hollin 2–1 FC Soessch New Belfast Blues 0–0 Lammerton La Gorlions 2–0 Marionville New Belfast Warriors 5–2 Hillstreet Cornellians 5–5 Kings Park Allous VB 0–0 Granton Vale Berwick United 0–1 Dundee Port Sebastian 1–1 Lammerton City Handon United 2–3 D'Itille Port James Athletic 2–0 Stalker Bay
MD2 FC Soessch 1–0 Stalker Bay D'Itille 2–3 Port James Athletic Lammerton City 1–1 Handon United Dundee 0–2 Port Sebastian Granton Vale 1–0 Berwick United Kings Park 3–1 Allous VB Hillstreet 2–4 Cornellians Marionville 3–3 New Belfast Warriors Lammerton 1–0 La Gorlions Hollin 2–1 New Belfast Blues
MD3 New Belfast Blues 0–1 FC Soessch La Gorlions 3–2 Hollin New Belfast Warriors 1–1 Lammerton Cornellians 0–0 Marionville Allous VB 0–1 Hillstreet Berwick United 1–4 Kings Park Port Sebastian 4–0 Granton Vale Handon United 2–0 Dundee Port James Athletic 0–0 Lammerton City Stalker Bay 0–0 D'Itille
MD4 FC Soessch 3–1 D'Itille Lammerton City 2–0 Stalker Bay Dundee 1–4 Port James Athletic Granton Vale 0–0 Handon United Kings Park 1–1 Port Sebastian Hillstreet 2–0 Berwick United Marionville 1–0 Allous VB Lammerton 0–2 Cornellians Hollin 3–2 New Belfast Warriors New Belfast Blues 0–1 La Gorlions
MD5 La Gorlions 1–0 FC Soessch New Belfast Warriors 2–1 New Belfast Blues Cornellians 3–2 Hollin Allous VB 0–0 Lammerton Berwick United 2–4 Marionville Port Sebastian 5–2 Hillstreet Handon United 2–2 Kings Park Port James Athletic 1–0 Granton Vale Stalker Bay 0–1 Dundee D'Itille 3–0 Lammerton City
MD6 FC Soessch 2–0 Lammerton City Dundee 1–1 D'Itille Granton Vale 0–1 Stalker Bay Kings Park 3–2 Port James Athletic Hillstreet 1–3 Handon United Marionville 1–2 Port Sebastian Lammerton 3–0 Berwick United Hollin 2–1 Allous VB New Belfast Blues 0–2 Cornellians La Gorlions 0–1 New Belfast Warriors
MD7 New Belfast Warriors 4–2 FC Soessch Cornellians 1–0 La Gorlions Allous VB 0–0 New Belfast Blues Berwick United 0–1 Hollin Port Sebastian 3–2 Lammerton Handon United 4–0 Marionville Port James Athletic 3–1 Hillstreet Stalker Bay 0–6 Kings Park D'Itille 1–0 Granton Vale Lammerton City 3–2 Dundee
MD8 FC Soessch 2–0 Dundee Granton Vale 0–0 Lammerton City Kings Park 5–3 D'Itille Hillstreet 1–0 Stalker Bay Marionville 1–0 Port James Athletic Lammerton 1–0 Handon United Hollin 2–2 Port Sebastian New Belfast Blues 1–0 Berwick United La Gorlions 2–0 Allous VB New Belfast Warriors 2–3 Cornellians
MD9 Cornellians 1–0 FC Soessch Allous VB 0–2 New Belfast Warriors Berwick United 0–2 La Gorlions Port Sebastian 3–2 New Belfast Blues Handon United 1–0 Hollin Port James Athletic 0–1 Lammerton Stalker Bay 1–3 Marionville D'Itille 2–3 Hillstreet Lammerton City 0–3 Kings Park Dundee 0–1 Granton Vale
MD10 FC Soessch 3–0 Granton Vale Kings Park 3–1 Dundee Hillstreet 1–0 Lammerton City Marionville 1–1 D'Itille Lammerton 3–0 Stalker Bay Hollin 3–3 Port James Athletic New Belfast Blues 0–2 Handon United La Gorlions 3–3 Port Sebastian New Belfast Warriors 2–1 Berwick United Cornellians 1–0 Allous VB
MD11 Allous VB 0–1 FC Soessch Berwick United 2–3 Cornellians Port Sebastian 2–2 New Belfast Warriors Handon United 4–3 La Gorlions Port James Athletic 2–3 New Belfast Blues Stalker Bay 0–1 Hollin D'Itille 2–1 Lammerton Lammerton City 1–3 Marionville Dundee 2–1 Hillstreet Granton Vale 0–2 Kings Park
MD12 FC Soessch 3–2 Kings Park Hillstreet 0–1 Granton Vale Marionville 5–0 Dundee Lammerton 1–1 Lammerton City Hollin 2–3 D'Itille New Belfast Blues 0–1 Stalker Bay La Gorlions 4–2 Port James Athletic New Belfast Warriors 1–1 Handon United Cornellians 1–3 Port Sebastian Allous VB 0–0 Berwick United
There are not many curtain raisers that can compete with a 5-5 scorline, which we saw in the Cornellians, Kings Park encounter. Both teams had a lot to prove this season for very different reasons, and this will go some way towards showing their doubters that they can play some good football. Gloriaxian skipper Eloisa Purinton scored a double in her first game in the SPL, and there were also goals for Mark Kelman, Daniel Cleopas, and Triffid Ramsey as the Eagles opened up a 5-3 lead at one point. However the Royals were their match, and goals from Alan Doolan (2), Erin Braden, Darren O'Brian, Felix Scholl, won the Handon side a share of the points.
Buoyed with confidence both side struck on from here, and by firmly established themselves at the top of the table. Kings Park had been little fancied at the start of the season, but it seemed now manager Eric Desmond was able to get something out of the players.
While Cornellians and Kings Park, along with Port Sebastian, were making the early pace, by match day twelve, some of the other top sides were already struggling. Tournament favourites Handon United and reigning champions New Belfast Warriors were down in fifth and sixth respectively, already seven points off the pace. In such a tight division, a gap of that size is already potentially fatal to a side's championship hopes. There was no doubting that The Warriors were missing playmaker Elisa Rivera, having sold the Port Christopher international to Marinos Thimpodopoulos Ladies before the start of the season. That combined with the change in management had meant that the side were slower out of the blocks than they would have liked to have been.
The middle of the table had a much more familiar feel to it with La Gorlions, Marionville and Hollin all going strong. As expected The Lions were pushing the top sides hard, with the experienced midfield duo of Fredrick Houben and Thomas Guenter proving their worth, at this point the side were just a win off of fourth place. Marionville were doing far better than expected, and with no investment in their playing squad, they were maintaining their form of last year.
As expected DBC stars Caitlin L'Attue and John McCormack were both performing well for their respective clubs, straddling the top and bottom half of the table. Despite, one point separating them in the table, D'Itille and Lammerton had very different sets of expectation this season and the former would have been considerably happy with their lot.
Down at the bottom Berwick United and AVB were in serious danger of getting cast adrift. One point from twelve games for Berwick just isn't good enough if they want to stay in the division.
Monthly Awards:
Player: Mark Kelman -- Cornellians Young Player: Erin Braden -- Kings Park Manager: Eric Desmond -- Kings Park
Player: Emeline Millet -- Port Sebastian Young Player: Caitlin L'Attue -- D'Itille Manager: Alexander Pearce -- Cornellians
Player: Gaston Avelione -- Handon United Young Player: Palle Ellsmere -- Hollin Manager: Pascal Voitle -- La Gorlions
Coldstream Farmers Union 3–3 La Gorlions (3–5 AET) Cornellians 3–4 Hillstreet Allous VB 1–0 Dundee Port Patrick United 3–3 D'Itille (3–3 AET) (6–7 pen.) Bridge of Hawick 0–1 Oakpark Celtic Central Stars 0–2 Hollin Port James Athletic 5–1 Soessch 1990 Handon North 1–1 New Belfast Blues (2-1 AET) Marionville 0–1 New Belfast Warriors Granton Vale 3–1 Lammerton City Stalker Bay 0–1 Handon United Lammerton 1–2 FC Soessch Kings Park 4–2 Regional Development Side D Herman Park 0–1 Regional Development Side A
Round of 16
Port Sebastian 2–3 Hollin D'Itille 1–0 Döllar Allous VB 2–0 Handon North Port James Athletic 1–3 Handon United Granton Vale 0–1 FC Soessch Regional Development Side A 0–2 Kings Park Herman Park 1–1 Oakpark Celtic (2–1 AET) La Gorlions 2–2 New Belfast Warriors (2–4 AET) Berwick United 0–1 Döllar Macusia 1–1 Port Sebastian (1–2 AET)
Posted: Wed Oct 07, 2015 12:11 pm
by Schottia
Matchday Thirteen - Twenty five
MD13 Berwick United 0–0 FC Soessch Port Sebastian 2–3 Allous VB Handon United 5–0 Cornellians Port James Athletic 3–3 New Belfast Warriors Stalker Bay 0–1 La Gorlions D'Itille 4–1 New Belfast Blues Lammerton City 1–0 Hollin Dundee 0–1 Lammerton Granton Vale 0–1 Marionville Kings Park 4–4 Hillstreet
MD14 FC Soessch 3–0 Hillstreet Marionville 0–3 Kings Park Lammerton 1–0 Granton Vale Hollin 0–0 Dundee New Belfast Blues 2–0 Lammerton City La Gorlions 1–2 D'Itille New Belfast Warriors 3–0 Stalker Bay Cornellians 1–0 Port James Athletic Allous VB 0–1 Handon United Berwick United 2–3 Port Sebastian
MD15 Port Sebastian 2–4 FC Soessch Handon United 0–1 Berwick United Port James Athletic 2–0 Allous VB Stalker Bay 0–3 Cornellians D'Itille 2–6 New Belfast Warriors Lammerton City 1–1 La Gorlions Dundee 0–0 New Belfast Blues Granton Vale 0–2 Hollin Kings Park 2–1 Lammerton Hillstreet 2–3 Marionville
MD16 FC Soessch 0–2 Marionville Lammerton 2–2 Hillstreet Hollin 3–4 Kings Park New Belfast Blues 1–0 Granton Vale La Gorlions 1–0 Dundee New Belfast Warriors 1–3 Lammerton City Cornellians 2–3 D'Itille Allous VB 1–0 Stalker Bay Berwick United 0–2 Port James Athletic Port Sebastian 1–0 Handon United
MD17 Handon United 1–1 FC Soessch Port James Athletic 0–1 Port Sebastian Stalker Bay 0–6 Berwick United D'Itille 2–1 Allous VB Lammerton City 4–1 Cornellians Dundee 0–2 New Belfast Warriors Granton Vale 0–1 La Gorlions Kings Park 3–0 New Belfast Blues Hillstreet 3–0 Hollin Marionville 1–2 Lammerton
MD18 FC Soessch 0–1 Lammerton Hollin 3–3 Marionville New Belfast Blues 2–4 Hillstreet La Gorlions 3–2 Kings Park New Belfast Warriors 2–0 Granton Vale Cornellians 2–0 Dundee Allous VB 1–2 Lammerton City Berwick United 1–5 D'Itille Port Sebastian 1–0 Stalker Bay Handon United 0–0 Port James Athletic
MD19 Port James Athletic 1–2 FC Soessch Stalker Bay 0–0 Handon United D'Itille 2–4 Port Sebastian Lammerton City 1–0 Berwick United Dundee 1–0 Allous VB Granton Vale 0–1 Cornellians Kings Park 2–1 New Belfast Warriors Hillstreet 2–2 La Gorlions Marionville 1–1 New Belfast Blues Lammerton 2–0 Hollin
MD20 FC Soessch 4–0 Hollin Lammerton 3–1 New Belfast Blues Marionville 2–2 La Gorlions Hillstreet 1–2 New Belfast Warriors Kings Park 2–2 Cornellians Granton Vale 3–0 Allous VB Dundee 0–0 Berwick United Lammerton City 2–4 Port Sebastian D'Itille 0–1 Handon United Stalker Bay 0–1 Port James Athletic
MD21 Stalker Bay 0–3 FC Soessch Port James Athletic 1–0 D'Itille Handon United 3–0 Lammerton City Port Sebastian 1–2 Dundee Berwick United 1–6 Granton Vale Allous VB 2–2 Kings Park Cornellians 3–1 Hillstreet New Belfast Warriors 2–0 Marionville La Gorlions 3–0 Lammerton New Belfast Blues 3–2 Hollin
MD22 FC Soessch 1–1 New Belfast Blues Hollin 0–3 La Gorlions Lammerton 1–0 New Belfast Warriors Marionville 2–1 Cornellians Hillstreet 0–0 Allous VB Kings Park 5–1 Berwick United Granton Vale 1–1 Port Sebastian Dundee 0–1 Handon United Lammerton City 1–1 Port James Athletic D'Itille 3–0 Stalker Bay
MD23 D'Itille 0–0 FC Soessch Stalker Bay 0–1 Lammerton City Port James Athletic 3–0 Dundee Handon United 1–0 Granton Vale Port Sebastian 2–2 Kings Park Berwick United 0–2 Hillstreet Allous VB 0–2 Marionville Cornellians 4–1 Lammerton New Belfast Warriors 2–3 Hollin La Gorlions 5–2 New Belfast Blues
MD24 FC Soessch 1–0 La Gorlions New Belfast Blues 1–3 New Belfast Warriors Hollin 1–1 Cornellians Lammerton 3–0 Allous VB Marionville 3–0 Berwick United Hillstreet 0–2 Port Sebastian Kings Park 0–0 Handon United Granton Vale 0–0 Port James Athletic Dundee 3–0 Stalker Bay Lammerton City 0–0 D'Itille
MD25 Lammerton City 0–1 FC Soessch D'Itille 4–1 Dundee Stalker Bay 0–2 Granton Vale Port James Athletic 2–4 Kings Park Handon United 3–0 Hillstreet Port Sebastian 2–1 Marionville Berwick United 0–1 Lammerton Allous VB 2–3 Hollin Cornellians 1–2 New Belfast Blues New Belfast Warriors 0–1 La Gorlions
As the league begins to reach its critical phase, things could not be much tighter at the top of the SPL. Despite having enough quality in their reserves to field a second team, probably capable of a top half finish, Cornellian have found things tougher than expected. After making a promising start to their maiden Premier League since switching from the MPL, their galaxy of stars have began to pale somewhat, seeing the side slip out of the top four. Kings Park on the other hand have had no such trouble, surprising everyone by keeping their strong start to the season going. 20-year-old midfielder Erin Braden has provided a breath of fresh air in the centre of the park, joining the impressive looking midfield of Darren O'Brain, Felix Scholl and Jack Halls. Up front, Alan Doolan is as deadly as ever, a true poacher if ever there was one.
Keeping pace with the Royals, only one point behind them are champions of two years ago, Port Sebastian. The side from north Handon look as dangerous as ever, and with the likes of Ko-oren playmaker Emeline Millet and Joey Bia in the squad, they can strike teams quickly and do a lot of damage. Much had been made of Handon United's poor start to the season, but with some good results including a show stopping 5-0 win over Cornellians, Neil Scarton's side are now keeping pace. Nik Konstidios has began to settle in the attack and looks much more like the player whom they signed from Hillstreet last term. Also with Aya Bernman and Deek Rotter, they appear to have unearthed a couple of fantast youngsters, proving that the United youth system is very much alive and kicking.
Elsewhere, Lammerton have made something of a charge up the table, fuelled largely by the goals of the two Johns, Cooper and McCormack. Not since the days when an 18-year-old Eoin Killanen graced the turf of the City Ground have the Hornets had such a promising player as John McCormack on their books.
Other teams going well are FC Soessch, and La Gorlions, who occupy third and fourth. As one would expect, Jurgen Peters' Soessch side are right in the mix as usual. Bruno Schwartz upfront, supported by Polar Islander Konstantin Holstad and Till Ümann, is as strong an attack as any team in the league and not to be taken lightly. The Lions by contrast have been making good use of home advantage, the masters of grinding out results through a combination of hard work and technical ability.
At the other end of the table, the bottom three are beginning to sink without a trace, as it looks like being a straight fight between Dundee, Granton Vale, and NBB to avoid the other drop spot. Looking at current form, you would fancy it to be Dundee going down, a team you feel will just fall short, going back down to the regional divisions.
Monthly Awards:
Player: Jake Halls -- Kings Park Young Player: Till Ümann -- FC Soessch Manager: Eric Desmond -- Kings Park
Player: Nik Konstidios -- Handon United Young Player: John McCormack -- Lammerton Manager: John Sedder -- Lammerton
Player: Konstantin Holstad -- Polar Islandstates Young Player: Jack Hobbs -- Granton Vale Manager: Jurgen Peters -- FC Soessch
Herman Park 3–4 New Belfast Warriors D'Itille 3–2 Handon United Kings Park 4–2 Hollin Allous VB 1–0 FC Soessch
-- Semi-finals
Allous VB 0–1 Kings Park D'Itille 1–3 New Belfast Warriors
Posted: Thu Oct 08, 2015 2:24 pm
by Schottia
Matchday Twenty six - Thirty eight
MD26 FC Soessch 0–1 New Belfast Warriors La Gorlions 3–3 Cornellians New Belfast Blues 5–1 Allous VB Hollin 4–1 Berwick United Lammerton 4–3 Port Sebastian Marionville 2–1 Handon United Hillstreet 1–0 Port James Athletic Kings Park 5–2 Stalker Bay Granton Vale 3–3 D'Itille Dundee 0–3 Lammerton City
MD27 Dundee 0–1 FC Soessch Lammerton City 0–2 Granton Vale D'Itille 2–2 Kings Park Stalker Bay 0–1 Hillstreet Port James Athletic 1–2 Marionville Handon United 1–0 Lammerton Port Sebastian 5–4 Hollin Berwick United 0–3 New Belfast Blues Allous VB 2–2 La Gorlions Cornellians 0–3 New Belfast Warriors
MD28 FC Soessch 1–2 Cornellians New Belfast Warriors 3–1 Allous VB La Gorlions 4–1 Berwick United New Belfast Blues 1–4 Port Sebastian Hollin 2–1 Handon United Lammerton 5–1 Port James Athletic Marionville 1–0 Stalker Bay Hillstreet 1–0 D'Itille Kings Park 0–2 Lammerton City Granton Vale 1–1 Dundee
MD29 Granton Vale 0–2 FC Soessch Dundee 3–5 Kings Park Lammerton City 1–0 Hillstreet D'Itille 1–2 Marionville Stalker Bay 1–2 Lammerton Port James Athletic 3–0 Hollin Handon United 2–0 New Belfast Blues Port Sebastian 3–5 La Gorlions Berwick United 3–2 New Belfast Warriors Allous VB 2–4 Cornellians
MD30 FC Soessch 1–0 Allous VB Cornellians 2–0 Berwick United New Belfast Warriors 4–0 Port Sebastian La Gorlions 0–0 Handon United New Belfast Blues 1–1 Port James Athletic Hollin 0–0 Stalker Bay Lammerton 3–2 D'Itille Marionville 2–0 Lammerton City Hillstreet 3–0 Dundee Kings Park 4–1 Granton Vale
MD31 Kings Park 2–0 FC Soessch Granton Vale 1–3 Hillstreet Dundee 0–1 Marionville Lammerton City 1–0 Lammerton D'Itille 1–2 Hollin Stalker Bay 0–1 New Belfast Blues Port James Athletic 4–2 La Gorlions Handon United 1–0 New Belfast Warriors Port Sebastian 3–4 Cornellians Berwick United 0–1 Allous VB
MD32 FC Soessch 3–0 Berwick United Allous VB 2–2 Port Sebastian Cornellians 2–1 Handon United New Belfast Warriors 2–0 Port James Athletic La Gorlions 2–0 Stalker Bay New Belfast Blues 2–1 D'Itille Hollin 4–4 Lammerton City Lammerton 5–1 Dundee Marionville 4–0 Granton Vale Hillstreet 1–2 Kings Park
MD33 Hillstreet 2–3 FC Soessch Kings Park 2–1 Marionville Granton Vale 1–0 Lammerton Dundee 0–0 Hollin Lammerton City 5–3 New Belfast Blues D'Itille 3–2 La Gorlions Stalker Bay 2–3 New Belfast Warriors Port James Athletic 0–2 Cornellians Handon United 2–1 Allous VB Port Sebastian 2–0 Berwick United
MD34 FC Soessch 2–1 Port Sebastian Berwick United 0–2 Handon United Allous VB 1–2 Port James Athletic Cornellians 1–0 Stalker Bay New Belfast Warriors 0–1 D'Itille La Gorlions 0–0 Lammerton City New Belfast Blues 2–0 Dundee Hollin 1–0 Granton Vale Lammerton 1–0 Kings Park Marionville 4–2 Hillstreet
MD35 Marionville 2–2 FC Soessch Hillstreet 0–1 Lammerton Kings Park 1–2 Hollin Granton Vale 1–1 New Belfast Blues Dundee 1–2 La Gorlions Lammerton City 1–1 New Belfast Warriors D'Itille 1–3 Cornellians Stalker Bay 0–1 Allous VB Port James Athletic 4–0 Berwick United Handon United 2–0 Port Sebastian
MD36 FC Soessch 0–0 Handon United Port Sebastian 1–0 Port James Athletic Berwick United 5–0 Stalker Bay Allous VB 0–3 D'Itille Cornellians 4–1 Lammerton City New Belfast Warriors 0–0 Dundee La Gorlions 0–0 Granton Vale New Belfast Blues 1–4 Kings Park Hollin 5–2 Hillstreet Lammerton 3–2 Marionville
MD37 Lammerton 1–1 FC Soessch Marionville 5–3 Hollin Hillstreet 0–5 New Belfast Blues Kings Park 4–3 La Gorlions Granton Vale 0–0 New Belfast Warriors Dundee 0–1 Cornellians Lammerton City 0–0 Allous VB D'Itille 8–3 Berwick United Stalker Bay 1–0 Port Sebastian Port James Athletic 3–3 Handon United
MD38 FC Soessch 4–0 Port James Athletic Handon United 2–0 Stalker Bay Port Sebastian 4–1 D'Itille Berwick United 0–2 Lammerton City Allous VB 1–3 Dundee Cornellians 2–1 Granton Vale New Belfast Warriors 3–3 Kings Park La Gorlions 4–0 Hillstreet New Belfast Blues 1–1 Marionville Hollin 2–2 Lammerton
Kings Park went into the final match of the season knowing that they had to win at all costs, and hope the Alexander Pearce's Cornellians side lost at home to Granton Vale. It was a tall order to start with, and after drawing with New Belfast Warriors, the Eagles result at Lochend made no difference at the end of the day. Cornellians lifted the title in their first season in the SPL following a switch from MPL football two seasons ago. Goals from Cosmin Dobrescu and Tsumugi Narita, in the second half were enough to cancel out Jack Hobbs' early strike. The win will have been eagerly awaited, with the side losing out on the MPL title on the last day of the season two year in a row. The challenge will no doubt come next year however, as Pearce has already been told that he needs to drastically cut is squad size.
Kings Park on the other hand will of course be disappointed, but for a side not much fancied to this year, second place would have been more than they could have hoped for pre season. Also, with the Schottic FA finally relaxing their stance on UICA competition, it gives the side the exciting prospect of international football to look forward to. Like Cornellians they will face a tough task next year, as few sides will be caught off guard by their attacking play the same way they were this season.
A little off the pace in third, FC Soessch will be reasonably happy with a solid performance. Konstantin Holstad (2), Gerhart Bitter, and Chris Okywä, all scored in an impressive 4-0 win over Port James Athletic, as the result helped them leapfrog Lammerton. The Hornets were pushed down into fourth after goals from Palle Ellsmere and Chris Jack gave their opponents Hollin a share of the points, when John Cooper and Billy Small had initially given them the lead. All the same, fourth is a massive achievement for Lammerton, and one of their highest finishes in years.
Handon United will be bitterly disappointed to have finished fifth, and their city rivals Port Sebastian even more so with their eighth place. Both sides are used to being up at the sharp end of the table and will now have to go back to the drawing board and take stock. For United it will be a fresh approach next season, whichever way you look at it, after the board have announced they have parted company with Neil Scarton after six seasons in charge; the club are now looking for a new manager for next season.
Worst of all however, was the misery endured by The Warriors' fans, as last years champions slumped to ninth in the table. New manager Jock Sonny will be wondering if he had done the right thing by moving from Cornellians, as he had to watch his former team lift the title. Winning the Schottic Cup may have been enough to keep the worst of the fan pressure off his back, but he will need to invest in the side during the summer. Perhaps he will be hoping to bring a few of his former players in on the cheep as Cornellians look to reduce their wage bill.
The battle at the other end of the table was pretty much decided for some time: some would argue before a ball was even kicked this season. Dundee, and Allous VB, join newly promoted sides Berwick United, and Stalker Bay, in the trip back down to the regional divisions.
Monthly Awards:
Player: Santiago Lowe -- Cornellians
Young Player: Caitlin L'Attue -- D'Itille
Manager: John Seeder -- Lammerton
Player: Fredrick Houben -- La Gorlions
Young Player: Tsumugi Narita -- Cornellians
Manager: Basil Bunton -- Marionville
Player: Triffid Ramsey -- Cornellians
Young Player: Aya Bernman -- Handon United
Manager: Rodger Green -- Lammerton City
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cornellians 38 26 5 7 78 53 +25 83 Champions Cup 2 Kings Park 38 23 10 5 108 62 +46 79 Globe Cup 3 FC Soessch 38 22 7 9 59 30 +29 73 Globe Cup 4 Lammerton 38 22 7 9 60 38 +22 73 Globe Cup 5 Handon United 38 20 11 7 56 25 +31 71 6 Marionville 38 21 8 9 72 50 +22 71 7 La Gorlions 38 20 9 9 74 47 +27 69 8 Port Sebastian 38 20 8 10 85 66 +19 68 9 New Belfast Warriors 38 19 9 10 76 48 +28 66 Cygnus Cup 10 D'Itille 38 16 7 15 76 67 +9 55 11 Lammerton City 38 14 12 12 45 48 −3 54 12 Hollin 38 15 9 14 68 73 −5 54 13 Port James Athletic 38 14 8 16 57 55 +2 50 14 New Belfast Blues 38 12 8 18 51 63 −12 44 15 Hillstreet 38 13 4 21 54 77 −23 43 16 Granton Vale 38 8 10 20 26 45 −19 34 17 Dundee 38 7 7 24 25 64 −39 28 relegated 18 Allous VB 38 4 9 25 25 63 −38 21 relegated 19 Berwick United 38 4 3 31 31 89 −58 15 relegated 20 Stalker Bay 38 3 3 32 9 72 −63 12 relegated
Player of Year: 1st: Darren O'Brian -- Kings Park 2nd: Eloisa Purinton -- Cornellians 3rd: Barry Stewart -- Marionville 4th: Fredrick Houben -- La Gorlions 5th: John McCormack -- Lammerton
Golden Boot (Top Scorer): 1st: 29 Eloisa Purinton -- Cornellians 2nd: 23 John McCormack -- Lammerton =3rd: 19 Alan Doolan -- Kings Park | Ivan Archic -- Warriors 5th: 17 Gaston Avelione -- Handon United =6th: 15 Konstantin Holstad -- FC Soessch | Paul Coine -- Port Sebastian | Daniel Cleopas -- Cornellians 9th: 14 Felix Scholl -- Kings Park =10th: 13 Jago Avelione -- La Gorlions | Caitlin L'Attue -- D'Itille | John Cooper -- Lammerton | Michael Maxwell -- Marionville
Young Player of The Year: 1st: John McCormack -- Lammerton 2nd: Caitlin L'Attue -- D'Itille 3rd: Tsumugi Narita -- Cornellians 4th: Till Ümann -- FC Soessch 5th: Erin Braden -- Kings Park
Manger of The Year: 1st: Eric Desmond -- Kings Park 2nd: Alexander Pearce -- Cornellians 3rd: John Sedder -- Lammerton 4th: Liam Seawel -- D'Itille 5th: Rodger Green -- Lammerton City
Team of The Year:
GK == Lucas D'Araby DF == Thomas Carmichael - Scott Burton - David Daller - Triffid Ramsey MF == Darren O'Brian - Fredrick Houben - Barry Stewart FW == Eloisa Purinton - Ivan Archic - John McCormack
Schottic Cup -- Final
Kings Park 2–2 New Belfast Warriors (2–3 AET) Goals: 33" Scholl, 79" Doolan - Kings Park 17" 48" 113" Archic - New Belfast Warriors
In what was a fantastic match, typical of the way Kings Park have conducted themselves all season, they fell just short in a bid to add the Schottic Cup to the Globe Cup place they have already earned so far. New Belfast Warriors, who have had a disastrous year by their standards, managed to finally give their poor fans something to cheer about, as an Ivan Archic hat trick handed them a first taste of international domestic football. The game was very competitive, with both sides on the attack for long periods. In the end Warriors manager Jock Sonny, will be hoping that the Nekulturnyn's extra time goal will be enough to keep him in a job next season.
MOTM: Ivan Archic
Regional Divisions - Second Tier In a bid to make football more sustainable in Schottia the second tier is split into four Regional Divisions. This was in an attempt to cut down travel time for fans and players, while giving a greater number of sides a chance at promotion. The champions of each league win promotion to the SPL, and the side finishing bottom is relegated to the Regional Conference. Other sides may be relegated too depending on which sides come down from the SPL, keeping the number of teams in each league at ten.
Division A -Greater Handon, Marionville, New Belfast, and New Scotland.
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 New Island 36 28 5 3 59 14 +45 89 promoted 2 Regional Development Side D 36 25 4 7 76 39 +37 79 3 New Town Thistle 36 23 5 8 72 32 +40 74 4 Garvald 36 20 6 10 63 48 +15 66 5 Coldstream Farmers Union 36 19 5 12 48 29 +19 62 6 Berwick Celtic 36 11 7 18 35 51 −16 40 7 Arnahm 36 10 9 17 48 55 −7 39 8 Lewisden United 36 11 1 24 35 65 −30 34 9 Keith 36 6 6 24 34 73 −39 24 relegated 10 BVLT 36 2 2 32 24 88 −64 8 relegated
Series B Champions' Cup Play-offs
Semi-finals- Herman Park 4–5 Port Patrick United Soessch 1990 0–3 New Island
Third place play-off- Herman Park 2–1 Soessch 1990
Final- Port Patrick United 1–3 New Island New Island, Port Patrick United, and Herman Park Qualify for the Series B Champions' Cup
Minor Leagues - Non UICA
Womens' Super-League The Womens' Super-League predates co-ed football in Schottia, but has been kept in place to help ease the transition for female players into the mixed game. The semi-professional set up has, however, produced some of the nations top stars in recent years, and many young women use it as a chance to get first team experience at an early age. With a surprisingly large niche following, the WSL has an exciting brand of football.
Marsia Thunder 1–3 Handon Eagles Lammerton City 3–3 North Island Mountianeers Marionville Reds 3–5 Soessch Ladies WFC Dundee 0–1 West Coast Worriors New Belfast Institute of Arts 3–0 South Berwick Auks Handon Ladies 1–2 West Belker Picts University of Soessch 2–5 PS Ladies Handon Amazons 1–2 Cornellians WFC
Handon Eagles 3–2 Cornellians WFC PS Ladies 0–0 Handon Amazons West Belker Picts 5–2 University of Soessch South Berwick Auks 2–4 Handon Ladies West Coast Worriors 1–1 New Belfast Institute of Arts Soessch Ladies 1–0 WFC Dundee North Island Mountianeers 2–3 Marionville Reds Marsia Thunder 1–1 Lammerton City
Lammerton City 1–0 Handon Eagles Marionville Reds 2–1 Marsia Thunder WFC Dundee 0–0 North Island Mountianeers New Belfast Institute of Arts 0–1 Soessch Ladies Handon Ladies 0–2 West Coast Worriors University of Soessch 1–4 South Berwick Auks Handon Amazons 2–4 West Belker Picts Cornellians WFC 4–2 PS Ladies
Handon Eagles 2–1 PS Ladies West Belker Picts 0–2 Cornellians WFC South Berwick Auks 0–1 Handon Amazons West Coast Worriors 2–0 University of Soessch Soessch Ladies 1–1 Handon Ladies North Island Mountianeers 3–2 New Belfast Institute of Arts Marsia Thunder 0–1 WFC Dundee Lammerton City 1–0 Marionville Reds
Marionville Reds 2–3 Handon Eagles WFC Dundee 0–1 Lammerton City New Belfast Institute of Arts 2–0 Marsia Thunder Handon Ladies 1–2 North Island Mountianeers University of Soessch 1–1 Soessch Ladies Handon Amazons 1–1 West Coast Worriors Cornellians WFC 1–0 South Berwick Auks PS Ladies 3–7 West Belker Picts
Handon Eagles 2–3 West Belker Picts South Berwick Auks 0–0 PS Ladies West Coast Worriors 3–3 Cornellians WFC Soessch Ladies 3–0 Handon Amazons North Island Mountianeers 3–3 University of Soessch Marsia Thunder 0–3 Handon Ladies Lammerton City 5–2 New Belfast Institute of Arts Marionville Reds 0–1 WFC Dundee
WFC Dundee 0–1 Handon Eagles New Belfast Institute of Arts 1–0 Marionville Reds Handon Ladies 2–1 Lammerton City University of Soessch 0–3 Marsia Thunder Handon Amazons 3–3 North Island Mountianeers Cornellians WFC 0–2 Soessch Ladies PS Ladies 2–2 West Coast Worriors West Belker Picts 2–0 South Berwick Auks
Handon Eagles 1–0 South Berwick Auks West Coast Worriors 4–2 West Belker Picts Soessch Ladies 4–1 PS Ladies North Island Mountianeers 2–3 Cornellians WFC Marsia Thunder 0–2 Handon Amazons Lammerton City 3–0 University of Soessch Marionville Reds 4–1 Handon Ladies WFC Dundee 0–1 New Belfast Institute of Arts
New Belfast Institute of Arts 4–3 Handon Eagles Handon Ladies 5–0 WFC Dundee University of Soessch 0–3 Marionville Reds Handon Amazons 0–1 Lammerton City Cornellians WFC 2–2 Marsia Thunder PS Ladies 3–2 North Island Mountianeers West Belker Picts 4–3 Soessch Ladies South Berwick Auks 2–4 West Coast Worriors
Handon Eagles 2–0 West Coast Worriors Soessch Ladies 4–0 South Berwick Auks North Island Mountianeers 0–1 West Belker Picts Marsia Thunder 0–1 PS Ladies Lammerton City 3–1 Cornellians WFC Marionville Reds 0–2 Handon Amazons WFC Dundee 0–1 University of Soessch New Belfast Institute of Arts 2–3 Handon Ladies
Handon Ladies 1–1 Handon Eagles University of Soessch 1–5 New Belfast Institute of Arts Handon Amazons 0–0 WFC Dundee Cornellians WFC 1–1 Marionville Reds PS Ladies 1–5 Lammerton City West Belker Picts 2–0 Marsia Thunder South Berwick Auks 2–3 North Island Mountianeers West Coast Worriors 2–3 Soessch Ladies
Handon Eagles 4–4 Soessch Ladies North Island Mountianeers 1–2 West Coast Worriors Marsia Thunder 2–2 South Berwick Auks Lammerton City 1–2 West Belker Picts Marionville Reds 0–1 PS Ladies WFC Dundee 1–0 Cornellians WFC New Belfast Institute of Arts 0–1 Handon Amazons Handon Ladies 5–2 University of Soessch
University of Soessch 2–4 Handon Eagles Handon Amazons 2–2 Handon Ladies Cornellians WFC 2–4 New Belfast Institute of Arts PS Ladies 0–0 WFC Dundee West Belker Picts 5–2 Marionville Reds South Berwick Auks 1–2 Lammerton City West Coast Worriors 4–0 Marsia Thunder Soessch Ladies 3–1 North Island Mountianeers
Handon Eagles 3–1 North Island Mountianeers Marsia Thunder 2–2 Soessch Ladies Lammerton City 2–0 West Coast Worriors Marionville Reds 0–1 South Berwick Auks WFC Dundee 0–2 West Belker Picts New Belfast Institute of Arts 0–1 PS Ladies Handon Ladies 2–5 Cornellians WFC University of Soessch 2–0 Handon Amazons
Handon Amazons 2–2 Handon Eagles Cornellians WFC 3–0 University of Soessch PS Ladies 3–3 Handon Ladies West Belker Picts 0–1 New Belfast Institute of Arts South Berwick Auks 2–0 WFC Dundee West Coast Worriors 1–1 Marionville Reds Soessch Ladies 0–2 Lammerton City North Island Mountianeers 4–2 Marsia Thunder
Handon Eagles 3–1 Marsia Thunder North Island Mountianeers 2–4 Lammerton City Soessch Ladies 0–0 Marionville Reds West Coast Worriors 1–1 WFC Dundee South Berwick Auks 1–0 New Belfast Institute of Arts West Belker Picts 0–2 Handon Ladies PS Ladies 0–1 University of Soessch Cornellians WFC 2–0 Handon Amazons
Cornellians WFC 4–2 Handon Eagles Handon Amazons 3–1 PS Ladies University of Soessch 2–5 West Belker Picts Handon Ladies 4–0 South Berwick Auks New Belfast Institute of Arts 1–2 West Coast Worriors WFC Dundee 0–2 Soessch Ladies Marionville Reds 0–0 North Island Mountianeers Lammerton City 3–2 Marsia Thunder
Handon Eagles 3–3 Lammerton City Marsia Thunder 1–3 Marionville Reds North Island Mountianeers 1–0 WFC Dundee Soessch Ladies 0–0 New Belfast Institute of Arts West Coast Worriors 0–0 Handon Ladies South Berwick Auks 1–0 University of Soessch West Belker Picts 0–1 Handon Amazons PS Ladies 5–3 Cornellians WFC
PS Ladies 2–2 Handon Eagles Cornellians WFC 1–1 West Belker Picts Handon Amazons 0–0 South Berwick Auks University of Soessch 2–3 West Coast Worriors Handon Ladies 2–2 Soessch Ladies New Belfast Institute of Arts 4–2 North Island Mountianeers WFC Dundee 0–1 Marsia Thunder Marionville Reds 0–2 Lammerton City
Handon Eagles 1–1 Marionville Reds Lammerton City 2–1 WFC Dundee Marsia Thunder 0–1 New Belfast Institute of Arts North Island Mountianeers 0–1 Handon Ladies Soessch Ladies 2–2 University of Soessch West Coast Worriors 2–1 Handon Amazons South Berwick Auks 2–4 Cornellians WFC West Belker Picts 1–1 PS Ladies
West Belker Picts 2–4 Handon Eagles PS Ladies 3–1 South Berwick Auks Cornellians WFC 1–0 West Coast Worriors Handon Amazons 1–2 Soessch Ladies University of Soessch 0–4 North Island Mountianeers Handon Ladies 5–0 Marsia Thunder New Belfast Institute of Arts 2–3 Lammerton City WFC Dundee 0–2 Marionville Reds
Handon Eagles 2–0 WFC Dundee Marionville Reds 1–1 New Belfast Institute of Arts Lammerton City 2–2 Handon Ladies Marsia Thunder 1–0 University of Soessch North Island Mountianeers 2–3 Handon Amazons Soessch Ladies 1–1 Cornellians WFC West Coast Worriors 4–4 PS Ladies South Berwick Auks 1–1 West Belker Picts
South Berwick Auks 0–1 Handon Eagles West Belker Picts 3–4 West Coast Worriors PS Ladies 1–0 Soessch Ladies Cornellians WFC 2–1 North Island Mountianeers Handon Amazons 3–0 Marsia Thunder University of Soessch 0–2 Lammerton City Handon Ladies 6–3 Marionville Reds New Belfast Institute of Arts 0–0 WFC Dundee
Handon Eagles 3–3 New Belfast Institute of Arts WFC Dundee 0–3 Handon Ladies Marionville Reds 4–0 University of Soessch Lammerton City 3–1 Handon Amazons Marsia Thunder 1–2 Cornellians WFC North Island Mountianeers 1–3 PS Ladies Soessch Ladies 1–1 West Belker Picts West Coast Worriors 3–0 South Berwick Auks
West Coast Worriors 0–0 Handon Eagles South Berwick Auks 0–1 Soessch Ladies West Belker Picts 1–1 North Island Mountianeers PS Ladies 3–1 Marsia Thunder Cornellians WFC 1–2 Lammerton City Handon Amazons 2–3 Marionville Reds University of Soessch 2–1 WFC Dundee Handon Ladies 5–2 New Belfast Institute of Arts
Handon Eagles 0–1 Handon Ladies New Belfast Institute of Arts 3–3 University of Soessch WFC Dundee 0–1 Handon Amazons Marionville Reds 2–1 Cornellians WFC Lammerton City 2–3 PS Ladies Marsia Thunder 2–4 West Belker Picts North Island Mountianeers 3–2 South Berwick Auks Soessch Ladies 2–2 West Coast Worriors
Soessch Ladies 1–4 Handon Eagles West Coast Worriors 2–0 North Island Mountianeers South Berwick Auks 0–1 Marsia Thunder West Belker Picts 0–1 Lammerton City PS Ladies 3–0 Marionville Reds Cornellians WFC 2–0 WFC Dundee Handon Amazons 1–0 New Belfast Institute of Arts University of Soessch 3–3 Handon Ladies
Handon Eagles 3–0 University of Soessch Handon Ladies 0–0 Handon Amazons New Belfast Institute of Arts 2–1 Cornellians WFC WFC Dundee 0–1 PS Ladies Marionville Reds 0–2 West Belker Picts Lammerton City 2–0 South Berwick Auks Marsia Thunder 1–1 West Coast Worriors North Island Mountianeers 2–4 Soessch Ladies
North Island Mountianeers 4–4 Handon Eagles Soessch Ladies 1–0 Marsia Thunder West Coast Worriors 0–2 Lammerton City South Berwick Auks 0–1 Marionville Reds West Belker Picts 2–0 WFC Dundee PS Ladies 1–0 New Belfast Institute of Arts Cornellians WFC 1–1 Handon Ladies Handon Amazons 0–0 University of Soessch
Handon Eagles 4–3 Handon Amazons University of Soessch 0–1 Cornellians WFC Handon Ladies 4–2 PS Ladies New Belfast Institute of Arts 2–3 West Belker Picts WFC Dundee 0–1 South Berwick Auks Marionville Reds 2–5 West Coast Worriors Lammerton City 3–1 Soessch Ladies Marsia Thunder 2–1 North Island Mountianeers
1st: Flora Klee -- Lammerton City 2nd: Victoria Dunn -- Handon Eagles 3rd: Louise King -- Lammerton City 4th: Anna Kurovski -- Handon Eagles 5th: Mara Logan -- West Belker Picts
Posted: Sat Dec 19, 2015 12:44 pm
by Schottia
Schottic Premier League
2019-20
Preview -Part One-
Playing squads for the upcoming season, with provisional starting eleven, and notable reserves. Teams listed in no particular order.
------------------ Cornellians FC Stadium: Lochend Stadium, 80,000 Average attendance: 51,591 Manager: Alexander Pearce Colours: White and green shirts, white shorts. Location: Lochend (Greater Handon) Nick name: The Eagles ------------------
------------------
GK. Jeremy McNott 24, RB. Santiago Lowe 29, LB. Triffid Ramsey 24, (Nephara) CB. Scott Burton 24, CB Stephan Gargo 21,
DM. Lucius Hirtius Carus 23, CM. Eula Richard 23, CM. Mark Kelman 27, CM. Tsumugi Narita 18, AMC. Cosmin Dobrescu 27,
CF. Eloisa Purinton 24,
---subs---
GK. David Prince 21, LB. John Yardlee 23, CB. Gary Hamilton 25,
RM. Jeff Dennis 31, RM. Mark Freute 19, AMC. Mabel Finnemark 19,
CF. Kathryn Kvanderwyk 18 CF. Damien Sturridge22,
Cosumarite Alexander Pearce has had to oversee something of a transition over the summer, as The Eagles have gone from being a top MPL side, to a side able to survive on an SPL budget. Gone is the massive reserve pool, and everything other that what is require to see the club move forward in a positive manner. Despite the loss of players such as Michael Pabadakis, Dan Cleopus, and Dahrla Bhosz, they still have more than enough about them to mount a competitive defence of their title.
So important to Cornellians are their rampaging wing-backs, Santiago Lowe, and Triffid Ramsey; the latter having gone from the lower leagues of Nepharim football, to Augustineopel Saints in the MPL Conference, to being arguably the best left-back in Schottia. Both have pace and energy in abundance, and last season there were few sides that had a credible answer to their constant overlapping. Di Bradini Cup winner Scott Burton, who has been synonymous with the Eagles since their inception, of course keeps his place at centre-back and has been made vice captain. He will be joined by 21-year-old defender Stephan Gargo, a very promising young player, who was defender of the season in the Cosumarite College League. Pearce has managed to keep the side's midfield neuclius intact, with Schottic international Mark Kelman, Kirisakian wonderkid Tsumugi Narita, and Jedorian attacker Cosmin Dobrescu. Keeping a hold of those three was very important to the manager and he will be delighted to have them all onboard. There are not going to be the same options coming of the bench this season, that much is clear, but they will be able to call upon Messilan wingers Eula Richard, Jeff Dennis, and Roman Lucius Hirtius Carus if required. Finaly, Mabel Finnemark is a late addition to the squad, the Fleftic U-21 star joining from Rosenpfelblatz City Ladies. While this isn't the same team it was two seasons ago, there is no doubting the ability world class striker Eloisa Purinton, a striker who captained Gloriax to the last-16 of the world cup aged just 21. Also the skipper of this side, it will be interesting to see how long the club can keep a hold of their golden girl, and the SPL's top scorer last season. In terms of back up Pearce and his team can look to Ghantish international Daniel Sturridge, who is more than capable of getting among the goals, as well as Kathryn Kvanderwyk, who he has snapped up from the fifth tier of Cosumarite football. No doubt using his knowledge and contacts back in his homeland, the manager has be able to invest in the clubs future, even if his main objective was to bring down the squad size.
Prediction: 1st. Cornellians looked very good last season, and despite concerns as to how they would adapt to the SPL they stayed strong and picked up the title in their debut season. Inevitably it is going to be harder this time round, but most people will have the champions as narrow favourites.
UICA Competition: Champions Cup
------------------ Handon Utd Stadium: Harbour Hill, 55,000 Average attendance: 51,373 Manager: Carl Sorensen Assistant: Karl Renardsen Colours: White and maroon with maroon shorts. Location: Handon Nick name: United ---------------------
--------------------
GK. Lucas D'Araby 33,
RB Robert Peszke 34, Weilkilas LB Esteke Inanuk 28, Copper Cuprum CB John McCann 33, CB Tameka Ninteyseventh 28,
DM Marko Simonsen 31, CM Colin Donaldson 35, CM Alfred Seggerson 27,
RD Simon Johnson 18, LD James Robertson 18, CB Henni Kellermann 19,
R/CM Christian Lovenkrands 18, L/CM Aya Bernman 18, LM Rachael Del Arro 18, CM Rino Hemnes 18, (Schottia)
CF Quinn McEnithly 17,
The glasses of most United fans must definitely be half full as they head into the new season. Following on from the side's worst season in living memory there are a handful of positives to take away: Handon United have gotten rid of a manager the fans were never convinced of, they've seen an overhaul of an aging side, and a real statement of ambition from the board with the appointment of former FC Jansberg boss Carl Sorensen. The ambitious 44-year-old has set about transforming a side, which after finishing fifth last season, was no longer fit for purpose. He and the board have made tough decisions, none more so that the sale of Gaston Avelione, which may have rustled a few feathers. The 31-year-old's four million move to Blue Coast 1981 has freed up wages, and transfer fees to bring in no less than six new players.
Schottia captain Lucas D'Araby remains in goals, as do stalwart defenders John McCann, and Weilkilan veteran Robert Peszke. True to form, Sorensen has not been afraid to make changes to the leagues best defence either, bringing in 95X centre-back Tameka Ninteyseventh from SC Oceanside for two million, replacing Kevin Scougle. Also, in a move which has surprised a few sections of the media, the club have enlisted the services of Copper Cuprum left-back Esteke Inanuk, who may prove to be a surprise package this season. In the midfield they will most likely stick with the services experienced trio Marko Simonsen, Alfred Seggerson, and Colin Donaldson. Retired Schottia captain Donaldson and the ever dependable Semar, Simonsen, formed a rock solid partnership last season in front of the back four. Schottic internationalist Seggerson, who has steadily risen through the ranks at the club, is now hitting his prime and establishing himself at the main man in what looks to be a three in midfield system. In a slightly more attacking role, Sorensen can look to up and coming youngster Aya Bernman, who was one of the club's few shinning lights last term. The 18-year-old can play left or centre and at this level has the ability to cause problems. United However, have a host of decent young players at there disposal, not least new recruit Christian Lonvenkrands, whom Sorensen brings in from the infamous academy system in his home land. Up front Sorensen has brought in help for last season's loan striker Nik Konstidios, who it is fair to say struggled somewhat with the weight of expectation. In comes the very highly rated Isaac Nketiah and Serge Mavididi, two 19-year-old Semars who spent last season on loan at FC Torshavn. No doubt Sorensen managed to pull some strings with his former charges FC Jansberg, as it is a real coup to have nabbed these players on a season long loan. With the addition of the two full internationalists, it may be a signal thet Sorensen is planning to switch to three up front at some point.
Star Player: Alfred Seggerson | Rising Star: Aya Bernman
Prediction: 2nd. Although it could go either way. In some ways this league isn't big enough for Cornellians and Handon United, neither side will be willing to settle for being second best.
------------------ Port Sebastian Stadium: Dyerton, 30,000 Average attendance: 29,875 Manager: Conner Watts Colours: Light blue, with dark blue shorts Location: Handon Nick name: Porty, or the Steel men
-------------------------
-----------------------
GK Chris Gonzaö 27,
RB Bobby Beatie 33, LB Paul Doig 22, CB Max Peterson 27, CB Billy Goodwen 32,
CM Jack Baxter 34, CM Emeline Millet 24, AMR Jonathan Bia 20, / Dahamy ML/C Chiyoko Sakuraka 21, Kazamatsuri
SS Paul Coine 30, ST Demba Traore 20
---subs---
GK Harry Gould 20, CM Milo Mavor 22, FC Kaija Koppel 20, (Schottia) on loan at Sviby Vikings, East Vormsi - can be recalled.
There's not much wrong with Port Sebastian on paper, not much at all in fact. When you look at the likes of Chris Gonzao, Joey Bia, and Paul Coine, all of whom are Schottia NT squad players, you feel that their has to be the makings of a title challenge. Throw into the mix, experienced skipper Jack Baxter, former U-21 captian Paul Doig, and Ko-oren international Emeline Millet, then Porty start to look like a team capable of doing real damage.
Port Sebastian would be the first to admit they let themselves down last season, and their final third collapse, which saw them plumit from second down to eighth very nearly cost manager Conner Watts his Job. To those ends the 48-year-old has taken measures to try and sure up his squad with the addition of young Semar striker Demba Traore, and former Project +90 product, Kazamatsurian midfielder Chiyoko Sakuraka. It remains to be seen what kind of an impact these players will make, but whatever they do, the side will need to hit the ground running, as the fans are unlikely to remain patient unless they see some positive movement.
Port Sebastian have a settled side, with a back four and keeper well used to playing together. Baxter performs his role well, acting as that all important first line of defence; so it's a big surprise that they conceded so many last season. Tightening up at the back is a must, but they aslo need to curb their reliance on Millet to pull the string for them. The side really need the Joey Bia of three seasons ago, when he fist burst onto the scene. Furthermore, they need Coine and Traore to work out how they are going to play together quickly if all this is to come together.
Star Player: Emeline Millet (Ko-oren) | Rising Star: Joey Bia
Prediction: 6th. It can only get better for Porty, and we have marked them out as one of the six teams who have a shot at the title. However, we feel that they will just miss out on the Globe Cup spots, and whether Watts can survive this will be another matter.
------------------ New Belfast Warriors Stadium: Ashley Road, 22,000 Average attendance: 17,312 Manager: Jock Sonny Colours: Green and orange shirt, white shorts Location: New Belfast Nick name: The Whalers ---------------------
--------------------
GK Keith Cumberton 34,
RB Victoria Schute 21, LB Tom Blantan 26, CB Kenny McDermot 28, CB James Blantery 32,
CM Holly Addison 23. CM Kris Scott 28, AML Adrienne O'Callahan 21, AMR Craig O'Maramy 24,
CF Ivan Archic 32, ST Jenny Lundergrand 21
---subs---
CF Ian Willson 18,
Winning the Schottic Cup may have done a little to ease The Warriors' frustraitions at following up their title-winning season with a huge slide down the table to ninth. A big part of their problem has been keeping a hold of key personnel, not least their manager Jane Gullie, who left to take charge of the national team. In the last year and a half however, they've seen star players Jon Fotan and Elisa Rivera head to the exit door, leaving their midfield severally depleted. All that to one side, there is very little wrong with their squad, which on paper should be able to push on this season. James Blantery is an experienced defender with caps to his name, as do Kris Scott and Craig O'Maramy in the midfield. Of course they can always rely on club captain Ivan Archic up front, and although the Nekulturnyan isn't getting any younger, he is still lethal in attack.
The Whalers knew they needed to bring in a couple of big players in the window, and they have. Most exciting will no doubt be Holly Addison, who plays her first club game since fleeing the conflict in Arcadia a year and a half ago. The 23-year-old midfielder has now switched allegiances to Schottia, and played in the World Cup for her adopted nation. New manager Jock Sonny has also brought in fresh legs upfront in the form of Upper Sunrise Islander Jenny Lundergrand. The feisty 21-year-old has a reputation as a bit of a hot head, and Sonny will be hoping that helps bring some more bite to the attack. They have also added the signature of Quebecoise +90 graduate Adrienne O'Callahan, with the hope that the highly rated youngster will bring a freshness to their attack.
The Warriors need to get this one right, but you feel that with the signings they have made, they could be the third title challengers this season. How Scott and Addison compliment each other will be vital, and we'll need to wait and see what kind of impact Lundergrand is able to make, and what she can learn from Archic in the attack. Sonny's lads and lasses will have way too much quality about them for the sides at the bottom of the table. Their final position will depend much upon their ability to take points off of teams like Kings Park and Lammerton.
Star Player: Ivan Archic (Nekulturnya) | Rising Star: Jenny Lundergrand (Upper Sunrise Islands)
Prediction: 3rd. They will get back to winning ways, there is no doubt about it. Whether they can get their noses ahead of Handon United of Cornellians is another story.
------------------ FC Soesch Stadium: Gannon park, 38,000 Average attendance: 26,229 Manager: Jurgen Peters Colours: Scarlet and Black stripes Location: Soessch Nick name: Die rote Teufel
-------------------
------------------- GK. Victor Drunnden 35, Nordkrusen
RB Mark Walker 27, LB Stav Nattermann 30, CB Nathan McDonald 30, CB Chris Okywä 30,
DM Gerhart Bitter 26, CM Till Ümann 22, AMR Johan Shearer 21, AML Christopher Dickson 24, AMC Konstantin Holstad 27,
CF Bruno Schwartz 29,
---subs---
LB/M Jan Ümann 20, AML Sam Buckley 32, CF Broad Dalehun 21,
Soessch are the Mr Dependable of this league. Always in and around the top four, it would be a very brave man indeed who would bet against them finishing there again. Solidity is their key to success. Every person, in every position on the pitch is no nonsense, hard working and professional. They have Schottia international Chris Okywä at centre back, alongside a very settled back line. In midfield Gerhart Bitter, Till Ümann and Chris Dickson have all been in the Schottic set up on one way or another, Ümann in the senior squad very recently. In attack they are deadly accurate with veteran Schottic striker Bruno Schwartz spearheading things up front, with Polar Islander Konstantin Holstad, just behind him. Jurgan Peters has never been the kind of manager who goes nuts in the in the transfer window, normally favouring to bring in youngsters with a point to prove and integrating them into the tightly knit squad. This year has been no different, and the only addition of note is Nepharim winger Johan Shearer, who should fit in nicely, and will slot in on the right for Die rote Teufel.
FC Soessch are particularly dangerous from set-pieces, with Holstad tucking away anything on the edge of the box. The height provided by Schwartz and McDonald also means there is a huge aerial threat from corners and balls swung into the box. This is typical of the way the side approach games, with patient build-ups, power, and directness in attack.
Star Player: Konstantin Holstad (Polar Islandstates) | Rising Star: Johan Shearer (Nephara)
Prediction: 4th. There is nothing to suggest that Soessch won't be there or there abouts at the end of the season. They have pretty much the same squad, which held up pretty well last time round.
------------------ King's Park Stadium: Lochely Green, 14,000 Average attendance: 11,867 Manager: Eric Desmond (player-manager) Colours: Navy Blue shirt, white shorts. Location: Handon Nick name: The Royals ------------------
------------------
GK Cliff Smith 31,
RB Jack Gordon 32, LB Deigo Marr 29, CB Peter Gaunt 27, CB Jullian Weddel 36,
CM Erin Braden 21, CM Jake Halls 27, AMR Felix Scholl 25, AML Darren O'Brian 26,
CF Francis Keelinan 25, CF Alan Doolan 30,
---subs---
CM Eric Desmond 38,
Kings Park were our surprise package last season, storming the league in Eric Desmond's first season in charge, to finish second. Years of being the leagues over achievers, followed by a somewhat barren patch had left fans screaming for an end to this feast or famine style. The Royals are well known for their gung-ho attitude, and always take the fight to the opposition. Last season they treated us to some great goals, and a lot of free flowing football.
The introduction of former Handon United and Schottia full-back Jack Gordon is clearly an attempt by the manager to stop leaking so many goal. He joins up with an experienced, if not a little haphazard defence. The midfield is where Kings Park are at their best however, and all four of them are capable of getting goals. Erin Braden made a big impact in the SPL last year, having made the switch from women's football. The 21-year-old is a tall athletic player, capable of dictating the play. Jake Halls, Felix Scholl, and last season's player of the year Darren O'Brian work well as a unit and push forward to support the attack.
The main goal threat for Kings Park is Alan Doolan, a tall poacher of a forward who doesn't have a particularly pretty style of play, but he is certainly effective. The side's big signing this season is Port James' Francis Keelinan. The 25-year-old has caps and goal for Schottia, he will be crucial to their Globe Cup campaign.
Star Player: Darren O'Brian | Rising Star: Erin Braden
Prediction: 5th. There are very few people predicting that Kings Park will soar as high as they did last season, but they will be near to top nonetheless. It will crucial for them to keep their momentum going.
------------------ La Gorlions Stadium: Danu Parc, 16,000 Average attendance: 12,554 Manager: Pascal Voitle Colours: White and yellow shirt, white shorts. Location: La Gorla Nick name: The Lions Club sponsor: Burgunden Breuerie ------------------
------------------ GK Jimmy Hook 33, Fenbar
RB Christy Snell 22, LB Juan Velente 18, CB Markus Pfab 24, CB Vinod Purteer 24,
CM Fredrick Houben 27, CM Thomas Guenter 32, Nordkrusen AMR Frank Samules 25, LF Billy Small 29,
SS Jago Avelione 33, CF Davy Ellan 30,
Nestled high in the North Island Mountains, there is no team on the planet that enjoys a trip to Danu Parc in La Gorla. By no means the largest in terms of budget, The Lions make up for it by being a ruff and tumble, industrious side, with some tough nuts in their ranks. Throw manager Pascal Voitle, a high altitude home ground, and players like Fredfick Houben and Jago Avelione into the mix, and you have a club who regularly finish in the top half of the table.
Billy Small, joins up with last season's 6th place side, completing a 300k transfer from Lammerton, as the Lions unusually have actually spent some money. The old side is very much the same however, with the club managing to retian the services of key players such as Vinod Purteer, Houben, and Avelione. The side from Pays La Gorla, will most likely continue to get in the faces of sides, and will be hoping they can go the extra mile and secure for themselves some UICA football.
Star Player: Fredrick Houben (Cosumar) | Rising Star: Juan Velente
Prediction: 9th. Ninth yes, but they are right in the mix. There are several team round them who are on a similar level, in what is fast becoming a very competitive league.
------------------ Marionville Stadium: Allen Dixon Arena, 25,000 Average attendance: 18,611 Manager: Basil Bunton Colours: Grey and Black shirt and shorts Location: Marionville Nick name: The Old boys ------------------
----------------- GK Pearce Brice 29,
RB Oliver Scott 20, LB Joseph Finders 36, CB David Daller 27, CB Nicolas Stains 30,
CM Scott Lewis 27, CM Barry Stewart 28, AMR Jarred Clotterman 20, RLM. Larry Goodman 19, ACM Vojnomir Nikolic 18,
CF Michael Maxwell 23,
---subs---
DC Artjom Järvinen 27, (Schottia)
One of the leagues larger teams, and consistent performers year in, year out. They have had to struggle recently, seeing top home-grown talent Larry Watt and Lachlan Frazer heading for the exit. Midfielder Barry Stewart comes in to this season on the back of some of his best form to date in an Old Boys jersey, and the fans will be hoping he is the player they have been looking for to deliver them a top four spot. Their is no doubting the fact that they had a good season last year, slightly up on expectations, and they will hope that some of their new signings can make a difference.
Stewart, along with captain David Daller, provide real quality in the back bone of this side, making them difficult to break down. In addition to this they have a quality young striker in the form of 23-year-old Michael Maxwell. Joining up with the side during the summer are: Nepharim keeper Pearce Brice formally of Chenoworth Harriers, Schottic U-18s cap Larry Goodman joining from Cornellians, and Pasagran teenager Vojnomir Nikolic. The Old Boys will feel that these players will hopfully allow them to push on from where they left of last season.
Star Player: David Daller | Rising Star: Vojnomir Nikolic (Pasagra)
Prediction: 7th. Another good season ahead for Marionville. They have taken lengths to improve on their side in the transfer window, the only problem is that the other teams round about them have done the same. We will really just need to wait and see.
------------------ Port James Athletic Stadium: City of Port James Stadium, 32,000 Average attendance: 27,971 Manager: Karla Blackett Colours: Purple shirt and shorts. Location: Port James Nick name: The Seasiders ------------------
------------------ GK Jack Ruver 30,
RB Carl Mujica 22, Audioslavia LB Jim Tanner 28, CB Stevie Orwell 27, CB Tomoaki Neyama 21,
CM Willie Erskin 27, CM Alan Pertson 22, AMR Joseph Preca 25, Eusebian Islands AML Ismal Keirut 23,
CF. Dahrla Bhosz 30, ST Remaine Clarke 21, ---subs---
Athletic had a howler last season, there is no other way to put it. A team playing to 27,000 a week should not be finishing 13th in the table, and it cost the manager his job. The Seasider have had to go through a mammoth rebuilding exercise, with no fewer than five players coming into the team. Francis Keelinan, the club's long time top goal scorer, has left to join last season's runners-up Kings Park, leaving a poor team further depleted.
Audioslvian Carl Mujica comes in at right-back, along with Northern Sunrise centre-back Tomoaki Neyama, who join Jim Tanner and Steve Orwell in the back four. In midfield Athletic have always relied heavily on Eusebian, Joseph Preca, to provide the creative spark. This season they have signed Cornellians' DBC winner Ismal Keirut to help out on that front, but it will be a lot of pressure on the shoulders of a player not used to first team football. It is all change up front however, with one enforced change. Young Semar Remaine Clarke joins from FC Jansberg, and Dahrla Bhosz, a player with MPL experience, is their second recruit in the wake of the Cornellians clear out.
Star Player: Joseph Preca (Eusebian Islands (Ossoria)) | Rising Star: Remaine Clarke (Semarland)
Prediction: 11th. There is still a long way to go for this side, and with so many changes to the starting line up, it could prove a struggle.
------------------ Hollin Stadium: Belker Stadium, 10,600 Average attendance: 10,139 Manager: Jack Hosker Colours: Red, white and blue Location: Linellie Nick name: The Belker boys ------------------
------------------ GK Varry Coen 25,
RB Derek Loya 26, LB Robert Morris 27, CB Dan Yarrow 34, CB Baxter James 31,
CM Palle Ellsmere 21, CM Stephen McAlly 30, AMR Chris Jack 25, AML Alistair Carlyle 27,
CF Fred Dawson 22, CF Beet Timons 28,
Hollin are a smaller side, which have traditionally always packed a punch. They are constantly challenging for a top half finish, and get there more often than not. They are most famous for the hostile atmosphere in their home stadium, which is worth a couple of extra points each season.
Hollin finished twelfth in the league last time round, but they have taken cares to make improvements to their playing squad, bringing in Alistair Carlyle from Chistopheran side Blue Coast, and Fred Dawson from Port Sebastian. They will be hoping, that these players can help them jump a couple of places.
Star Player: Chris Jack | Rising Star: Palle Ellsmere (Polaaskan)
Prediction: 10th. Were unlucky last season, and should climb back up the table.
Posted: Sun Dec 20, 2015 11:38 pm
by Schottia
-Part Two-
------------------ Lammerton Stadium: Lammerton City Ground, 24,000 Average attendance: 23,688 Manager: John Sedder Colours: Yellow and Black shirt, black shorts Location: Lammerton Nick name: The Hornets ------------------
CM Timo Düd 26, CM Arron Marcie 30, CM Jeff Vance 32, OM Mars Alexandersson 19,
RF John McCormack 21, CF John Cooper 27,
---subs---
CF Nathan Clark 24,
Had one of their best seasons in recent memory last year, and as a result have UICA football to look forward to. There was a lot of speculation as to whether they would be able to keep ahold of some of their more impressive players such as: John Copper, John McCormack, and Arron Marcie. Much to the relief of their fans they managed to retain their serveices, and added to their options in attack, with promising Northwestern Sunriser Mars Alexandersson.
With a good playing squad, and large home attendences there will be many expecting another strong season from the Hornets, even if last season may have been seen as a flash in the pan. Upfront, John McCormack was heralded as one of the breakthrough players in the league last season, and once again they will be counting on him and strike partner Cooper, to bring in the goals.
Prediction: 8th. It's cruel, but if a few of the others in the league get their act together, then this could be a hard season for Lammerton.
------------------ Hillstreet Stadium: Flodden Road, 12,500 Average attendance: 4,060 Manager: Harry Goor Colours: Yellow maroon and white shirt, maroon shorts Location: Huntly Nick name: The Hunters ------------------
------------------ GK Colin Munro 34,
RB James Jennie 26, LB Clive Coumly 30, CB Stephen Gregg 33, CB Desmond Derpson, 24
CM Nial Constantine 31, CM. Phillip Hanalii 26, MR Jose Sanmarco 25, ML Biran Craine 30,
CF Dirk Levee 32, CF Jak Leavie 21,
There is an old adage in football, don't sell your best player. The problem for Hillstreet is that they have done just that, twice in a row. Last year Nik Konstidios, the striker whose goals used to drag them over the line time after time, left to join Handon United for just under a million. This year it is their ever dependable team captain Kevin Morton who signed for newly promoted Port Patrick in a club record two million move. All in all there must be something of a sinking feeling creeping in, and it is a long way down for the side from Huntly.
They've beefed up their hard season ahead with former Soessch centre-back Desmond Derpson, Nial Constantine who joins from Marionville, and one time promising youngster Phillip Hanalii, who ends a four year stint at Cornellians.
Prediction: 18th. Unfortunately it looks like the drop zone for the Hunters, unless they can come up with a miracle.
------------------ D'Itille Stadium: Belvour parc, 7,000 Average attendance: 4,269 Manager: Liam Seawel Colours: Green and white shirt, white shorts Location: Annacey Nick name: Annacien ------------------
------------------ GK Gary Thornly 35,
RB Ellian Larraux 28, LB Luke Corsby 22, CB Duncan Harris 29, CB Marius Pujuneb 26,
CM Bruce Kewt 29, CM Abbus Atamei 26, MR Dardan Baris 20, ML Ewan Swain 27,
CF Callum Frir 26, CF Lucas Yashvil 24,
From the beautiful Northern Schottic coast, nestled among the brightly coloured wood panel houses of Anacy, is the picturesque Itillebay. Probably one of the highlights for most teams is the long drive to away days against D'Ittile. The lime greens have been doing their best, however, to make that as unpleasant as possible as possible, with some good performances over the last few season. They've had to wave goodbye to Caitlin L'Attue, a youngster who in all honesty, they had no hope of holding onto long term. She has moved of to Hollybrent in Osarius and bigger and better things, having spent three seasons at the North Island club.
They will be hoping the signing of Warriors striker Callum Frir will help them, as they look to move on from the loss of L'Attue, and build on a very positive season which saw them finish 10th.
Prediction: 12th. Probably going to drop a couple of places, but they will avoid the drop. Should be safe mid-table.
------------------ New Belfast Blues Stadium: Straks Park, 15,000 Average attendance: 11,000 Manager: Nail Leeten Colours: Blue and white shirt, white shorts Location: New Belfast Nick name: The Blues ------------------
------------------
GK Jim Black 22,
RB Nicolas Slone 29, LB Louise Marshall 23, CB Ross Hardcoart 28, CB Peter Jnist 28,
CM Aleksander Heino-Watanabe 17, CM Gordon Grant 32, MR Sam Saxon 21, ML James Trusen 27,
CF David Millar 28, CF Shu 18,
---subs---
CF Chris Strivin 29,
The city of New Belfast's poorer relation, the blues fans have had to endure years of watching their rivals challenge for the title, while the languish in the bottom half of the table. Will this be the season that all changes? Most likely not, but NBB are one of a number of teams who could all be vying for a respectable top half finish. Last year's 14th place will have been a big disappointment for the team, who will be hopping for some improvement this time round.
They have some solid enough players in the form of; keeper Jim Black, Right-winger Sam Saxon, and striker David Millar, who earned a Schottia cap whist playing for Port James. This season they will be able to look to Daineri striker Shu, who joins from Burnhm FC on a free transfer, and up and coming youngster Aleksander Heino-Watanabe, who is promoted from the reserves.
Prediction: 14. This is a very tough one to call, but we are going to leave them where they finished last season, just clear of relegation.
------------------ Granton Vale Stadium: Sea Park, 13,000 Average attendance: 8,469 Manager: Dan Brown Colours: Grey shirt, grey shorts. Location: Granton Nick name: The Beachcombers ------------------
------------------
GK. Krista Till 20, - Loan Marionville
RB John Steel 33, LB Dave Cranshaws 27, CB Duncan Johnson 34, CB Nathaniel Bueno-Wells 20, Semarland - loan Handon United
RM Will Rybka 26, L/CM Scott Cooper 27, CM Dave Doonden 35, CM Tommy Wilson 31, ACM Alan Groom 28,
CF Jack Hobbs 19, ---subs--- LM Anna White 19,
Their fist season back in the top flight was something of an anti climax as they finished just outside of the relegation zone. Despite having a good squad of players, many were surprised that they never capitalised on their early promise. They have an old-fashioned direct style of football, with two no nonsense midfielders in Tommy Wilson and Dave Dooden, as well as U-21 internationalist Jock Hobbs. Theoretically, there is nothing standing in the way of the side from northern Handon making a real go of things this season, so we will be eagerly watching.
Former fans' favourite Scott Cooper rejoins the club after spells at Cornellians and New Belfast Warriors and the manager will be hoping he can recapture some of his form of four years ago. They also have the very highly rated Nathaniel Bueno-Wells on loan from Handon United until the end of the season, likewise with 95X keeper Krista Till who joins from Marionville.
Prediction: 17th. With some of the sides who have just come up, this thing just got a lot tougher for The Beachcombers.
------------------ Lammerton City Stadium: Lammerton City Ground, 24,000 Average attendance: 3,378 Manager: Rodger Green Colours: White shirt with blue trim, blue shorts Location: Lammerton Nick name: The Princes, or City ------------------
------------------
GK Arnan Yulcic 26,
RB Thomas Carmichael 26, LB Brock Fuller 29, CB Gordon Centon 26, CB Christopher Bishop 19,
CM Kyle Ingles 28, CM Karen Seywel 26, CM Matt Skea 33,
Lamerton City enjoyed one of their best seasons ever in the top flight last season finishing 11th. No matter what happens you can usually be sure of two things in the SPL. 1) Lammerton City will struggle. 2) Lammerton City will stay up. It will no doubt be the same again this season, and although they have a couple of very decent players in the form of Thomas Carmichael and Karen Seywel, they really lacked the finance to strengthen in the window.
Sharing the city stadium with their much better established city rivals, Lammerton, the Princes have always struggled to muster much support.
Prediction: 16th. Just outside the relegation zone, but they are going to have to work mightily hard.
------------------ Port Patrick Stadium: Galloway Lane, 18,000 Average attendance: 9,341 Manager: Des Pleent Colours: White shirt and shorts, with dark green trim Location: Handon Nick name: The Breakers ------------------
CM Ross Skinner 28, CM Kevin Morton 31, RM Willie McIntyre 30, AML, Cerys Kennicot 22,
CF Jane Swanson 25, CF Heron Crew 23 ,
One of the four sides promoted from the second tier, Port Patrick perhaps have the best chance of making an impact this season. They used to be good but they are "so $!¶{ now" as rival fans have constantly reminded them for the five years they have been in the second tier, watching their crowds diminish, and the echo in their 18,000 seater stadium increase.
They have actually had some money to spend, and what's better they seem to have spent it wisely. In comes wily old centre back Jake Dooner from Cornellians, Hillstreet captain Kevin Morton, former Schottia cap Willie McIntyre, and Women's League top player Jane Swanson. All of the above, you would imagine, would be able to add something, and when you take into account the players already in this side, you can see why we are going to predict that they will stay up.
Prediction: 13th. On a player for player basis, they have a really good chance of fighting for a spot in the top half of the table.
------------------ New Island Stadium: The Rock Ground, 13,000 Average attendance: 6,348 Manager: Greame Collins Colours: Black and gold top, black shorts Location: South Berwick Nick name: The Auks ------------------
------------------
GK. Malcolm Ferguson 34,
RB Vincent Harricot 31, LB Liam Sleas 30, CB Andy Berry 32, CB Ian Brent 25,
RM Xander Cross 29, AML Jack Brier 20, DM Dave Urquart 26, CM Nikita Clohessy 30, Brenecia
CF Kennick Finlay 34, CF Kevin McCrorry 29,
Coasted to the top of Regional Division D last season and are rewarded with an instant return to the top flight. Former Handon United and Schottia star Greame Collins has worked wonders as manager, tranforming them into a side, which looks really hard to beat. Former Schottia U-21 international Kevin McCrorry has been an important source of goals for the club, and when you add to that an experenced back line, you would imagine they will pick up a few points this year.
Collins has brought in one time New Belfast Warriors golden-boy Jack Brier, who seems to have been deemed surplus by Jock Sonny. The 20-year-old winger, has pace by the bucket-load, and will no doubt slot in well. In addition to this Collins has brought in the experienced Cosumarite Kennick Finlay, and Brenecian midfielder Nikita Clohessy, who should both compliament the side.
Prediction: 15th. Probably not going to have any trouble staying up this time, and might even do a bit better if they can string some results together.
------------------ Herman Park Stadium: Stalter Stadium, 8,000 Average attendance: 6,381 Manager: Paul Punt Colours: Brown shirt, white shorts. Location: Douglas Nick name: The Millers ------------------
------------------ GK Tom Ryan 26,
RB Kenny McSully 24, LB Billy Porter 27, CB Liam Collins 32, CB Jack Breeks 30,
CM Kevin Arnald 25, CM Molly Moone 21, RM Deek Rotter 18, ML James Willis 26, CF Lenard Koor 23, CF Hamish Jackson 19,
A small side from the west of Schottia, Herman Park are making their return to the top flight after a long leave of absence. They had a good season last year, and largly need to thank Kevin Arnold, and young striker Hamish Jackson for getting them there.
They have brought in Handon United's lightning youngster Deek Rotter, who should definitely have the pace and power to improve their side. However Herman Park's flagship signing is former U-21 cap Lenard Koor, whom despite being surplus to requirements at Port James, still knows what it takes to score at SPL level.
Prediction: 19th. They'll give it their best shot, but Herman Park will return to the regional divisions as quickly as they came.
------------------ Soessch 1990 Stadium: Wolbeck Park, 11,000 Average attendance: 3,350 Manager: Joe Landels Colours: Gold shirt with silver trim, silver shorts Location: Soessch Nick name: The Raiders ------------------
------------------
GK Thomas Purtzl 29,
RB Niele Wolbeck 22, LB Karl-Heinz Icke 30, CB Donald Peirson 23, CB Terry Wilson 34,
CM Russel Crenn 29, CM Gordon Eckernesy 19, MR Jordan Pensly 22, ML Davis Van der Lowe 24,
CF Jessica Grey 16, CF Dean Tarrot 31,
Only founded thirty years ago, this side form Schottia's second city have risen up slowly through the footballing pyrimid and make thier first appearence in the SPL. They have a talented young midfielder in the form of Gordon Eckernesy, and watch out for 16-year-old Osarian Jessica Grey, the youngster by all accounts has really impressed her manager during the pre-season.
Prediction: 20th. Not a bad team in all honesty, but no where near the quality needed to stay in the division.
Posted: Wed Dec 23, 2015 5:36 am
by Schottia
Matchday one - twelve
Champions Cup -- Prelim Round
Cornellians 1-0 RGS Athletic (EFL)
Cornellians got us off and running in the UICA competitions, with a 1-0 win at home to RGS Athletic. Cornellians are no strangers to international competition, having competed in the MPL for two seasons. It was, in the end, a fairly composed performance where the Eagles managed to do what was required of them. Damien Sturridge's second half header from a Cosmin Dobrescu freekick was enough to give the Schottic side a slim advantage as they headed to Eastfield Londge.
Globe Cup -- Prelim Round
Pacific City Nationals (NFX) 1–0 Lammerton Honneur (ZEN) 2-1 FC Soessch
There was no such luck for Schottia's Globe Cup hopefuls however, with Soessch and Lammerton going down to Honnuer and Pacific City Nationals respectively. Lammerton failed to recreate one of their dogged displays from last season, as they were undone by a single Nationals goal. Soessch on the other hand, gave themselves a valuable life line with a Bruno Schwartz goal late into stoppage time, to give them a fighting chance in Zenic.
SPL Hollin 0–3 Port Sebastian D'Itille 4–0 Granton Vale Hillstreet 0–3 New Belfast Warriors Soessch 1990 2–3 Kings Park New Belfast Blues 2–2 La Gorlions Herman Park 0–2 Port Patrick Lammerton 3–4 FC Soessch Port James Athletic 3–0 New Island Cornellians 0–0 Handon United Marionville 0–0 Lammerton City
On paper it was the in incredible game to kick thing off with, and typically it ended up being something of an anticlimax. Handon United, in Carl Sorensen's fist game in charge held reigning champion Cornellians 0-0 at Lochend stadium. United had a massive point to prove, and in truth they looked a much better side that last season when they struggled to fifth place. United stood up very well to the Eagles' fire-power, and nullified the threat of Eloisa Purrinton throughout. Tameka Ninteyseventh on her debut was immense at centre back, and it was the 28-year-old from 95X who nearly set up the winner after her long ball forward fell kindly for fellow debutant Serge Mavididi. However the young Semar could only look on as Jeremy McNott's diving save turned the ball wide. Another side with all eyes on their opening performance was New Belfast Warriors. After finishing ninth last season, the fans were expecting big improvements. Luckily that was what they got, as the wily Nekulturnyan Ivan Archic, Schottia star Craig O'Maramy, and new signing Jenny Lundergrand all found the net to give them a three-nil win over strugglers Hillstreet. The Whalers will also be happy with the performances of midfielders Holly Addison and Quebecoise signing Adrienne O'Callahan, both young women played very well in their first games in green and orange.
Champions Cup -- Prelim Round
RGS Athletic (EFL) 1-1 Cornellians AET
An extra time winner from Gloriaxian striker Eloisa Purrinton helped Cornellians progress to the next round of the Champion's Cup. The 24-year-old looked at her best, as she turned in a Mark Kelman cross after a very hard fought match.
Globe Cup -- Prelim Round
Lammerton 1-2 Pacific City Nationals (NFX) Soessch 4-1 Honneur (ZEN)
In the Globe Cup, fortunes were very much mixed. Mars Alexanderssen's goal on 22 minutes wasn't enough for the Hornets as they ended up losing 2-1 to Pacific City Nationals. Soessch however, managed to produce a breathtaking UICA night performance to defeat Honneur 4-1. Johan Shearer, opened the scoring for his side on the stroke of half time, with Gerhard Bitter, and Konstantin Holstad (2) adding three more in the second half to send Die rote Teufel through.
SPL Port Sebastian 4–2 Lammerton City Handon United 2–1 Marionville New Island 0–3 Cornellians FC Soessch 4–3 Port James Athletic Port Patrick 2–1 Lammerton La Gorlions 1–0 Herman Park Kings Park 2–2 New Belfast Blues New Belfast Warriors 4–0 Soessch 1990 Granton Vale 2–2 Hillstreet Hollin 2–3 D'Itille
Another side with much to prove this year are Port Sebastian, who made it two wins out of two, with a 4-2 victory over Lammerton City. 20-year-old Demba Traore scored a double taking his tally to three, as he looks every bit the player Porty have been looking for, since joining the club on a free. Ko-oren midfielder Emeline Millet bagged her first of the season with and excellent solo effort, and Chiyoko rounded of another good day at the office for her side, slicing in Joey Bia's 83rd minute cross to cap a good performance on her part. Alexander Pearce's Cornellians side got over their opening day nerves to win 3-0 at newly promoted New Island. Eloisa Purrinton was outstanding as the Gloriaxian's first half double set her team cursing. Eula Richard completed the scoring ten minutes from the end with a drive from the edge of the box, after some great work by Tsumugi Narita. The 18-year-old Kirisakian Narita, on this performance, looks like she is going to be a key player yet again for her club. Handon United also recorded their first victory under new manager Carl Sorensen. Marionville are never an easy team to play, and after Pasargan teenager Vojnomir Nikolic cancelled out Colin Donaldson's headed opener, there must have been a feeling that things were not going to go United's way. However, substitute Rimo Hemnes came to the rescue when his sliding tackle on Barry Stewart sent the ball through into the path of Semarland international Isaac Nketiah. The 19-year-old never normally needs more than a sight at goal, and one-on-one with the keeper, he deftly slotted the ball home to make himself an instant hero with the home fans. The poor start for Lammerton continued as they went down 2-1 to new boys Port Patrick. John McCormack opened the scoring for the Hornets after only three minutes with a well worked, side footed effort from the edge of the box. Despite the early breakthrough it was Port Patrick who got the upper hand, with goals from Herron Crew, and new signing Willie McIntyre.
Champions Cup -- Play-off Round
CF Aéropag (ACF) 3–2 Cornellians
In another dramatic night Cornellians pulled level twice, in their 3-2 defeat to CF Aéropag grabbing two vital way goals. Eula Richard scored from the tightest of angles moments before half time, and young Cosumarite Kathryn Kvanderwyk grabbed the sides second on 70 minutes.
Globe Cup -- Play-off Round
Canbix Muses (ZWZ) 2–1 Kings Park Gruelmakers (GGS) 1–0 FC Soessch
In what seems to be a bridge too far for Schottia's clubs, neither could manage a point in their play-off round away matches. Alan Doolan got the only Schottic goal on the night as he gave Kings Park a faint lifeline against Canbix Muses.
D'Itille 0–2 Port Sebastian Hillstreet 1–2 Hollin Soessch 1990 0–1 Granton Vale New Belfast Blues 0–1 New Belfast Warriors Herman Park 2–4 Kings Park Lammerton 1–0 La Gorlions Port James Athletic 3–1 Port Patrick Cornellians 3–3 FC Soessch Marionville 2–1 New Island Lammerton City 2–3 Handon United
This week Port Sebastian kept the momentum going with a 1-0 win away to D'Itille. While there were also hard fought victories for Lammerton, The Warriors, and Handon United. The latter, once again needed a late goal to win the match, this time form Schottia international Nik Konstidios, after Serge Mavididi, and Alf Seggerson had scored previously. Despite Eloisa Purrinton scoring her second double in as many games Cornellians were still help to a 3-3 draw by FC Soessch. The Eagles' inspirational skipper was powerless to deliver a victory for the champions as Bruno Schwartz, Till Ümann, and Nepharim winger Johan Shearer all scored for the North Island side in a pulsating fixture. Substitute Damien Sturridge had to rescue a point for Cornellians in the end, striking late in the second half. There was also a win for fellow title chasers, and last year's runners-up Kings Park, as they won 4-2 away to Herman Park. Alan Doolan, Francis Keelinan, Felix Scholl, and Erin Braden were all on target as the side recorded their second win of the season.
Champions Cup -- Play-off Round
Cornellians 1-3 CF Aéropag (ACF)
Cornellians' Champions Cup dream came to a sudden end last night, as they were defeated 3-1 at home to CF Aéropag. The crowd went into raptures with Purrinton's 32 minute opener, but that was as good as it got, with the Eagles soundly beaten.
Globe Cup -- Play-off Round
Kings Park 0-1 Canbix Muses (ZWZ) FC Soessch 0-2 Gruelmakers (GGS)
And the Globe Cup dream also came to an end, in something of an anticlimax. Neither Soessch or Kings Park were able to put up much of a contest, as Canbix Muses, and Gruelmakers cruised into the next round.
SPL Port Sebastian 1–1 Handon United New Island 0–1 Lammerton City FC Soessch 2–3 Marionville Port Patrick 2–1 Cornellians La Gorlions 3–2 Port James Athletic Kings Park 4–3 Lammerton New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Herman Park Granton Vale 0–1 New Belfast Blues Hollin 1–0 Soessch 1990 D'Itille 1–0 Hillstreet
Marionville will be very pleased with their weekend's work as they managed a 3-2 win over Soessch away from home. Pasargan teenager Vojnomir Nikolic scored for a third week running, as the attacking midfielder continues to make his mark in a grey and black jersey. Michael Maxwell, and Barry Stewart were also on target for the Old Boys in what was a composed performance all round. Stewart in particular seems to have picked up from where he had left off last season, and at this rate must be starting to force his way into contention for an international call up. Chris Dickson, and Konstantin Holstad both scored for Soessch, but a share of the points would have been flattering. Port Patrick kept their incredible start to the season going with a shock 2-1 win over Cornellians. The incredible Heron Crew was on target yet again, scoring his fourth in four, after he out-muscled Scott Burton to head home an Esther Abner cross. Cornellians, playing with two up front pulled level early in the second half through the industrious Kathryn Kvanderwyk, but the young Cosumarite's goal was not enough, as Jane Swanson grabbed her first goal for Port Patrick after 70 minutes to earn her side a famous win. The highlight of the weekend was in a different part of Handon however, as arch-rivals Port Sebastian and Handon United locked horns for the first time. Porty, who have been on fire were by far the better side over the 90 minutes and looked to be well on course to a 1-0 victory after Paul Doig's long throw was turned in by Kazamatsui-jin winger Chiyoko on the stroke of half time. 1-0 as we all know is a precarious lead, and just as United were probably written off, they inevitably struck back. Marko Simonsen played a clever one-two with Alf Seggerson, before the latter played an accurate long ball into the path of Serge Mavididi. The teenager did well under pressure from Bobby Beatie, before cutting the ball across goal for his international teammate Isaac Nketiah to slam the ball into the back of the net and save a point.
Globe Cup -- Play-off Round
Cornellians 3–0 Fontvielle Impact (VLD)
The Eagles are now the only Schottic side left proudly fighting the flag, in the UICA, and they proved they are no pushovers with a 3-0 win over Fontvielle Impact. Purrinton scored a double either side of half time and Tsumugi Narita rounded things off ten minutes from the end to give them a good lead going into the second leg.
SPL Hillstreet 0–1 Port Sebastian Soessch 1990 0–0 D'Itille New Belfast Blues 2–3 Hollin Herman Park 0–2 Granton Vale Lammerton 3–0 New Belfast Warriors Port James Athletic 2–1 Kings Park Cornellians 1–3 La Gorlions Marionville 6–3 Port Patrick Lammerton City 2–2 FC Soessch Handon United 2–3 New Island
After all their good work over the last two weeks Port Patrick's fans will be hoping that they can somehow recover quickly from the 6-3 collapse at the hands of Marionville. To their credit, Marionville have been playing very well in spells this season, and despite the away side going 3-1 down at one point they pressed on and won in style. Heron Crew was on target yet again, making it five in five, but even adding goals from Willie McIntyre and Cerys Kennicot, there was nothing they could do against what was to follow. Vojnomir Nikolic grabbed himself a double, and there were also goals from Michael Maxwell, Larry Goodman, David Daller, and Scott Lewis, as their side's six goals were this week's talking point. There must have been something in the air this week, because there was more than just the one odd result. Soessch were held 2-2 away to Lammerton City, as the latest in a string of poor results puts Jurgen Peters under a fair bit of pressure early on. Jago Avelione, Davy Ellan, and Billy Small were all on target as La Gorlions somehow managed to defeat Cornellians 3-1 at Lochend park. Handon United will be devastated not to have been able to capitalise, as despite Christian Lovenkrands' first goal for the club, the aspiring champions went down 3-2 to New Island. And finally New Belfast Warriors continue to struggle as they lost 3-0 away to Lammerton. The Hornets seem to have recovered from an initial blip and are now back in business John Cooper (2) and Mars Alexandersson, getting them over the line comfortably here.
Globe Cup -- Play-off Round
Fontvielle Impact (VLD) 1-1 Cornellians
Cornellians did all the damage after only four minutes, when Mark Kelman scored with a long-range effort. Despite scoring in the second half, it was too much to ask of Fontvielle Impact, and Cornellians marched into the Globe Cup qualifying round.
SPL Port Sebastian 3–0 New Island FC Soessch 1–2 Handon United Port Patrick 1–1 Lammerton City La Gorlions 5–2 Marionville Kings Park 3–4 Cornellians New Belfast Warriors 2–2 Port James Athletic Granton Vale 3–2 Lammerton Hollin 3–0 Herman Park D'Itille 2–0 New Belfast Blues Hillstreet 1–0 Soessch 1990
After a bad run of late, Alexander Pearce will have been over the moon to have snuck a stoppage time, 4-3 win, against Kings Park. The Royals pulled level in the game three times, with goals from Keelinan, Doolan, and O'Brian, after Narita, Kelaman, and Purrinton had given their side the lead. Their relief was etched on the Cosumarite's face as Triffid Ramsey's 93rd minute goal gave his side the win. The player who has recently switched allegiances to Iskandervale, had been doubling as a wing forward in the closing stages as her side chased the win, and she got her account for the season up and running, turning in a pass from Damien Sturridge. Without particularly making any of the headlines, Port Sebastian seem to be on something of an impressive march reminiscent of their 2017 title winning run. They continued to dish out what has been a tough lesson for Division D champion New Island with a comfortable 3-0 win. Paul Coine tucked away a penalty on the stroke of halftime as Joey Bia was downed in the box, before second half goals from Demba Traore, and Bia himself sealed the win for the Handon side. It was also a tricky match for their neighbours Handon United, as Soessch is never an easy place to go and get points. There luck was in however, as goals from Aya Bernman and Nik Konstidios were enough to get them over the line after Till Ümann had opened the scoring for the home side. A late Dharla Bhosz strike denied The Warriors a home win, as Athletic continue to build as a squad. The Deadoran striker scored her second of the season with a well-executed goal, to pull her side level, after goals from Jenny Lundergrand, and Adrienne O'Callahan, had cancelled out Joseph Preca's earlier strike.
Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round
Medoria Löwen (COM) 2–0 Cornellians
It looked like it could be the beginning of the end this week, with Cornellians going down 2-0 to Medoria Löwen, in a match they never really get a handle of. Even the likes of Dobrescu and Purrinton looked out of sorts, as the Eagles limped off the pitch well beaten.
SPL Soessch 1990 1–3 Port Sebastian New Belfast Blues 1–0 Hillstreet Herman Park 1–2 D'Itille Lammerton 3–0 Hollin Port James Athletic 1–0 Granton Vale Cornellians 3–1 New Belfast Warriors Marionville 4–2 Kings Park Lammerton City 1–5 La Gorlions Handon United 4–3 Port Patrick New Island 0–0 FC Soessch
This weekend's pulsating encounter was between Marionville and Kings Park, as once again the Royals struggled to recapture last year's form. The midfield looked all at sea as Marionville, who look much improved this time round, stuck four past them. The experience of Pearce Brice between the sticks seems to have made a difference, as has the inclusion Vojnomir Nikolic, and Larry Goodman, both of whom were on the score sheet here yet again. Kings Park scored twice through Darren O'Brian, and Felix Scholl, but in the end it wasn't enough, and the Old Boys continued to build on their good start to the season. In terms of the Warriors' so called resurgence, the jury is definitely still out as they were brushed aside 3-1 by Cornellians. Ivan Archic scored for the Whalers, but it was merely a drop in the pan, as Mark Kelman, Cosmin Dobrescu, Mabel Finnemark, all found the net for the Eagles. Fleftic U-21 player Finnemark got on the score sheet for the first time this season, her just rewards for some impressive displays off the bench. D'Itille have been having a tremendous start to the season in the absence of former star midfielder Caity L'Attue. Yet another win, this time at the expense of Herman Park, kept them near the top of the table. Callum Frir, after his mover from the Warriors has had a new lease of life, and scored both the side's goals in the 2-1 victory. 20-year-old Dardan Baris has also exceeded all expectations filling in on the right side of midfield, and if anything he seems to be more effective than his predecessor, even if he is now where near as subtle.
Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round
Cornellians 1-1 Medoria Löwen (COM)
After battling so hard to get a goal in the first half of this match, Cornellians let it slip when they conceded straight after the break. Stephen Gargo nodded home an Eula Richard corner to give Alexander Pearce's side a valuable lead, but it wasn't to be enough for the former MPL team.
SPL Port Sebastian 2–2 FC Soessch Port Patrick 3–1 New Island La Gorlions 1–2 Handon United Kings Park 1–0 Lammerton City New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Marionville Granton Vale 1–0 Cornellians Hollin 1–0 Port James Athletic D'Itille 1–3 Lammerton Hillstreet 1–0 Herman Park Soessch 1990 0–0 New Belfast Blues
Jake Hobbs scored one of the most important goals of his career as the Schottic U-21 star gave his side a fantastic win over Cornellians, to continue his side's good start to the season. The defeat will have been a bitter pill for the Eagles, who have been struggling with consistency this term. Handon United were on hand to take full advantage of the slip-up even if they themselves have been stuck in second gear. They managed to edge out a La Gorlions side who had just scored ten goals in two games prior to the match. Serge Mavididi scored two as his side managed to prevail through a backs to the walls performance, where the defence were sorely tested. The scoreline was evenly poised until the 53rd minute when Alf Seggerson's freekick cannoned back off the crossbar and into the path of the Semarland international, who was on hand to chest the ball in for his second of the night and fourth of the season. One team who do not seem to be struggling one bit are Lammerton, who took full advantage of their visit to D'Itille to leapfrog their rivals. John McCormak continues to make a name for himself as the young Schottian scored great second half header to add to earlier strikes from John Cooper and Aaron Marcie. The Hornets look like they are going to surprise everyone by proving to be a force again this season. The signing of Northwestern Sunriser Mars Alexandersson seems too have made a massive difference giving them some thrust through the middle of the park.
New Belfast Blues 0–2 Port Sebastian Herman Park 0–0 Soessch 1990 Lammerton 5–2 Hillstreet Port James Athletic 2–1 D'Itille Cornellians 3–2 Hollin Marionville 4–1 Granton Vale Lammerton City 2–0 New Belfast Warriors Handon United 2–3 Kings Park New Island 0–1 La Gorlions FC Soessch 0–1 Port Patrick
Lammerton continued on the rich vein of form, which has seen them make a charge up the table, this time putting five past a sorry Hillstreet side. It seems like it wouldn't be a weekend in the SPL unless John McCormack was on the score sheet. The highly rated youngster was on song once again as he scored one and had a hand in another two. The pick of the bunch was his neat lay-off for Mars Alexandersson's thunderous drive on 60 minutes, which put the result beyond any doubt. The goal was the Northwestern Sunrise Islander's second of the match, and there were also goals for John Cooper, and Timo Düd. Another massive result this week was Kings Park's 3-2 win at Handon United's Harbour Hill Stadium. The Royals, who have looked a little shaky so far this term, really got it together, and thanks to a Francis Keelinan double and an Alan Doolan penalty they managed to get the better of their big spending rivals. United scored twice, Tameka Ninteyseventh heading in an Alf Seggerson freekick, and a late goal from substitute Rachael Del Arro offered them some consolation. Early pace setters Port Sebastian also got back to winning ways with a comfortable win at New Belfast Blues, following a draw with FC Soessch. The Steel Men are irresistible when they are at their best, and they made light work of the New Belfast club, with goals from Emiline Millet and Demba Traore. Elsewhere Goals from Eloisa Purrinton, Lucius Hirtius Carus, and Kathryn Kvanderwyk, helped Cornellians stave off the Hollin attack, as their opponents came within a hair's breadth of upsetting the champions with Chris Jack and Palle Ellsmere on the score sheet for the Belker Club.
Port Sebastian 2–0 Port Patrick La Gorlions 2–2 FC Soessch Kings Park 2–1 New Island New Belfast Warriors 4–4 Handon United Granton Vale 1–0 Lammerton City Hollin 2–3 Marionville D'Itille 4–2 Cornellians Hillstreet 2–1 Port James Athletic Soessch 1990 0–2 Lammerton New Belfast Blues 2–0 Herman Park
The battle of Handon's two big ports, one a Breakers yard, the other a Shipbuilders had its first meet in four years as Port Sebastian brushed city rivals Port Patrick aside as they begin to look unstoppable. Chiyoko Sakuraka left Esther Abner for dead before delivering a cross for Joey Bia to slam home from the corner of the 18-yard-box, as Port opened the scoring after only 10 minutes. The home side were in complete control and as Paul Coine popped up to head home their second early in the second half, and the result was by then a forgone conclusion. Port Patrick must have known it really wasn't their day when Kevin Morton missed a penalty ten minutes from the end, after Cerys Kennicot was brought down by Bobby Beatie. Had the former Hillstreet man converted it may have given them some hope, but as it was Conner Watts' men ran out deserved winners. In this week's big battle Handon United and New Belfast Warriors played out a 4-4 draw. The Warriors will have been disappointed to have to settle for a draw at home, but as seems to be a recurring theme with Carl Sorensen's United side, they never say die. Semar pairing Serge Mavididi and Isaac Nketiah were particularly impressive throughout and both combined well to torment the Warriors defence. Although Jenny Lundergrand struck late to save a point for her club it did nothing to improve the mood of her manager Jock Sonny, who laid into United, and what he perceived to be an "unsporting advantage."
'There is just no way you can compete with that, is there?' Sonny said when speaking to and SBC reporter. 'When we are scraping around brining players in on free transfers, it's ridiculous that he [Sorensen] is able to bring two of the best young strikers in the world [Mavididi and Nketiah] on loan. How can anyone say this is a level playing field? Ridiculous.'
Herman Park 0–1 Port Sebastian Lammerton 1–0 New Belfast Blues Port James Athletic 1–0 Soessch 1990 Cornellians 4–2 Hillstreet Marionville 2–2 D'Itille Lammerton City 2–1 Hollin Handon United 1–1 Granton Vale New Island 0–1 New Belfast Warriors FC Soessch 2–0 Kings Park Port Patrick 2–2 La Gorlions
After a frustrating defeat at the hands of D'Itille, Cornellians managed to earn a welcome three points against Hillstreet even if was a little hard won. First half goals from Cosmin Dobrescu and Triffid Ramsey should have been enough for the champions, but they allowed Hillstreet back into the match with goals from Phillip Hanalii and Dirk Levee. It was only a matter of time until Cornellians got the upper hand however, and an Eloisa Purrinton freekick and a late Stephan Gargo header gave them the win. Port Sebastian just keep on producing those narrow wins, while all their main title opponents seem to be perpetually slipping up. If things are to continue at this rate then the title could be all but over by the mid way point, as they have already opened up a eight point lead. This time a 1-0 win over Herman Park was enough to keep the momentum going. Lammerton and New Belfast Warriors are two sides doing their best to keep pace and also recorded 1-0 wins against NBB and New Island respectively. Both sides will know that they cannot afford any more slip-ups if they are going to close down the gap.
Port Sebastian 2–1 La Gorlions Kings Park 1–1 Port Patrick New Belfast Warriors 4–3 FC Soessch Granton Vale 1–0 New Island Hollin 0–1 Handon United D'Itille 5–2 Lammerton City Hillstreet 2–2 Marionville Soessch 1990 2–1 Cornellians New Belfast Blues 5–2 Port James Athletic Herman Park 1–2 Lammerton
This week's crowd puller was The Warriors 4-3 win at home to FC Soessch. Ivan Archic was again instrumental in his sides win, as the club continue to rely heavily on the Nekulturnyan. The 32-year-old skipper scored the opening goal, but also showed great vision to set up Craig O'Maramy's winner seven minutes from the end. Kris Scott and Jenny Lundergrand were also among the goals for the New Belfast side as they give themselves the faintest of hopes of catching league leaders Port Sebastian. To Soessch's credit they didn't play badly and on another day the goals from Shearer, Schwartz, and Dickson might have been enough to earn them all three points. It must look ominous for the chasing pack, after only twelve matched, with Porty already so far ahead. Given the circumstances, Cornellians aren't doing themselves any favours by dropping silly points like they did on the visit to minnows Soessch 1990. The Raiders went two goals up in the opening half hour with Jessica Grey and Gordon Eckernesy both scoring against the run of play. Despite Conrellians doing everything they could to salvage a point, Eula Richard's goal was not enough to claw the result back, as 1990 sat in and defended for dear life.
Monthly Awards:
Player: Joey Bia -- Port Sebastian Bia's manager, Conner Watts, laid down the challenge to the young player to re-find the form that he produced when their side won the championship three year ago, and he certainly delivered. Some fantastic performances helped fire his side to the top of the table.
Young Player: Vojnomir Nikolic -- Marionville The first Pasargan to play in the SPL, Nikolic has already made a good impression. The young attacking midfielder has proven to be an important source of goals for his side. In the way he has helped to link the midfield and the attack, he has shown a maturity far beyond his years.
Manager: Conner Watts -- Port Sebastian The jury was out on Porty before the start of the season, and while they have not yet delivered their verdict, there must be some positive murmurs. New signings Chiyoko and Demba Traore have helped galvanise this team, as the disappointing finish to last season seems to be forgotten.
Player: Serge Mavididi -- Handon United Although Handon United's recovery has been a bit stop start in the opening eight weeks, all the signs of improvement are already there. New signing Mavididi has been one of the stand-out performers, and his two well taken goals against The Lions give him the nod over the likes of John McCormack and Emiline Millet for this months award. The combination of Mavididi's aerial ability and the freekicks and corners of Alf Seggerson, has every defence in the country terrified of conceding anything around the box.
Young Player: Mars Alexandersson -- Lammerton Mars has shown her fighting spirit this month, as the teenager as proven to be the creative driving force of a Lammerton side, which continues to surprise us. Passing flare and an eye for goal; signed on a free transfer she is looking more and more like a great find for John Sedder.
Manager: John Sedder -- Lammerton No one thought Lammerton would pick up where they left off last term, but if anything they look even better. Given the budget Sedder has compared to his title rivals, he deserves a lot of credit.
Player: Ivan Archic -- New Belfast Warriors The experienced old warhorse, Archic rarely fails to deliver in front of goal for The Whalers. While his side have perhaps found the going tough this season, he has still been popping up with the goals that have salvaged some important points.
Young Player: Chiyoko Sakuraka -- Port Sebastian (KZT) Looks like a great addition to the side, Chiyoko has settled quickly into the midfield and is already producing goals and assists. At points, the other teams in the league have had little answer to her when she runs at them with pace.
Manager: Liam Seawel -- D'Itille Not only have D'Itille managed the loss of their most promising youngster, but they have actually improved on the park. Third in the league after twelve games is excellent by their standards.
Hillstreet 2–3 Port Patrick Regional Development Side A 2–0 Stalker Bay Berwick United 3–3 Dundee Rovers (4–3 AET) Central Stars 0–1 Soessch 1990 Port James Athletic 3–5 Lammerton Döllar 4–5 Mucusia D'Itille 1–1 Granton Vale (1–1 AET) (4–5 pen.) Regional Development Side D 1–1 Kings Park (1–1 AET) (2–3 pen.) New Island 3–0 Jena VB La Gorlions 3–2 Marionville New Belfast Blues 5–4 Port Sebastian Lammerton City 3–1 Allous VB New Belfast Warriors 3–0 FC Soessch Handon United 1–0 Herman Park Kirk Preston United 2–2 Dundee (2–2 AET) (4-2 pen.) Hollin 1–2 Cornellians
Round of 16
New Belfast Blues 3–2 Port Patrick Regional Development Side A 7–4 Mucusia New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Soessch 1990 Kings Park 6–3 New Island Granton Vale 0–1 Kirk Preston United Lammerton 2–1 La Gorlions Lammerton City 3–0 Berwick United Cornellians 1–1 Handon United (1–1 AET) (4–5 pen.)
Posted: Mon Dec 28, 2015 12:58 pm
by Schottia
Matchday Thirteen - Twenty five
SPL Lammerton 4–2 Port Sebastian Port James Athletic 0–0 Herman Park Cornellians 3–2 New Belfast Blues Marionville 1–0 Soessch 1990 Lammerton City 2–0 Hillstreet Handon United 3–2 D'Itille New Island 1–2 Hollin FC Soessch 3–1 Granton Vale Port Patrick 1–1 New Belfast Warriors La Gorlions 0–0 Kings Park
This really was Port Sebastian's chance to deal a fatal blow to the chasing pack, however they were unable to beat an in form Lammerton, who consequently moved within five points of the Handon side, with a 4-2 win. Demba Traore, and Jack Baxter were on target for Port Sebastian, but The Hornet's deadly trio were at their devastating best. John Cooper scored either side of half time after John McCormack had given them the lead with a header on the quarter hour mark. Mars Alexandersson then put the result beyond any doubt on 73 minutes, when she picked up an Arron Marcie pass, before rounding the keeper to finish off an excellent move. The result will have come as a massive relief to Handon United who have a huge gap to make up. They took full advantage jumping up to third, as they defeated D'Itille 3-2. United were pushed hard by the home side, and it took a piece of brilliance from Esteke Inanuk, who played in Aya Bernman with a pin-point through ball. The pass allowed the teenager to set up Isaac Nketiah for the simplest of finishes as the Semar helped the visitors steal all three points. It was a somewhat similar story for Cornellians, who triumphed by the same score line despite NBB's best efforts. Young midfielder Aleksander Heino-Watanabe scored a screamer from 30-yards-out, and Dainari striker Shu added another for The Blues. In the end however, it came down to just how clinical The Eagles were in the final third; Tsumugi Narita, Cosmin Dobrescu, and Mark Kelman all finding the net.
Port Sebastian 5–4 Kings Park New Belfast Warriors 3–1 La Gorlions Granton Vale 0–3 Port Patrick Hollin 2–5 FC Soessch D'Itille 1–0 New Island Hillstreet 2–4 Handon United Soessch 1990 0–1 Lammerton City New Belfast Blues 3–1 Marionville Herman Park 0–2 Cornellians Lammerton 3–1 Port James Athletic
Newly promoted side Port Patrick have been stringing some good results, and again this week they dealt a knockout blow to a fellow top-half contender Granton Vale, beating them 3-0 in Granton. Striker Heron Crew has been in fantastic form for the Handon side in what is his first season in the top flight. His first half goal today will no doubt further calls for his inclusion in the Schottia squad for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers. Another young player grabbing the headlines this season has been Cerys Kennicot, and the 22-year-old winger was on the score sheet as well today. After being set free by a Willie McIntyre long ball, Kennicot showed great composure to rifle the ball past Krista Till in the Beachcombers' goal. Handon United are another side that are really getting their act together and with a 4-2 win at Hillstreet they keep the pressure on Lammerton and Port Sebastian. They were outstanding again today, and in truth, the gap in the scoring could have been even wider. Alf Seggerson slammed in a long-range freekick to open the scoring, and there were also second half goals from Mavididi, Konstidios, and a first strike for 17-year-old Quinn McEnithly. The former Handon Amazons striker was signed when she was only 13, after being the youngest player to ever appear in the Women's Super League. Among the title contenders, there were wins for Port Sebastian, The Warriors, Lammerton, and Cornellians. The later put in a composed performance as they beat Herman Park 2-0, Cosmin Dobrescu was star of the show as he continue to get back to his best. The Jedorian star scored one and produced the pass, which set up Kathryn Kvanderwyk for the side's second late on.
Port James Athletic 3–2 Port Sebastian Cornellians 1–3 Lammerton Marionville 3–1 Herman Park Lammerton City 2–3 New Belfast Blues Handon United 1–0 Soessch 1990 New Island 3–1 Hillstreet FC Soessch 3–1 D'Itille Port Patrick 1–4 Hollin La Gorlions 1–0 Granton Vale Kings Park 4–3 New Belfast Warriors
This week was potentially pivotal in the title race, and might be seen as the point at which Handon United made their move. After seemingly being in a commanding position a few weeks back, Porty have now slipped up for the second time in three weeks, this time going down 3-2 to Port James. The league leaders will have no idea how they lost this match, and looking back, goals from Paul Coine and Chiyoko Sakuraka should have been more than enough. As it was however, Remaine Clarke (2) and Joseph Preca both found the net, to give the home side a very welcome three points. Handon United seized the opportunity to pounce, with a very professional 1-0 victory over Soessch 1990. Their opponents set up to play for a 0-0 draw from the kick-off and would have gotten their way, had it not been for Tameka Ninteyseventh's goal, heading in a Christian Lovenkrands corner on 84 minutes. United had to endure a frustrating match, but in the end their patience was rewarded with all three points. Kings Park also earned a good result at home this week, with a 4-3 win over The Warriors. Ivan Archic, Holly Addisson and Adrienne O'Callahan all scored for the New Belfast side, but incredibly The Royals went one better and a Francis Keelinan hat trick, along with a Darren O'Brain header helped their side to all three points. Another side getting back to winning ways was Marionville as the Old Boys defeated Herman Park thanks to strikes from Barry Stewart, Michael Maxwell, and Vojnomir Nikolic. Finally, the big shock this week came in the form of Cornellians' 3-1 defeat at the hands of Lammerton. Given the respective performances of both sides this season, the result may have come as less of a surprise than it would have last season, however it does the Eagles no favours. Eloisa Purrinton scored for the champions, but even she looked second best to John McCormack and Co. The former Schottia U-21 star opened the scoring for the Hornets, this was added to by Jeff Vance and substitute Nathan Clark.
Port Sebastian 4–2 New Belfast Warriors Granton Vale 4–3 Kings Park Hollin 1–1 La Gorlions D'Itille 3–4 Port Patrick Hillstreet 0–5 FC Soessch Soessch 1990 0–2 New Island New Belfast Blues 0–1 Handon United Herman Park 1–2 Lammerton City Lammerton 2–0 Marionville Port James Athletic 0–3 Cornellians
After the disappointment of last week, the yo-yoing in form of Cornellians continued as this time they cruised past Athletic 3-0 away from home. Lucius Hirtius Carus opened the scoring with a thunderous drive, the Roman's first of the season, as The Eagles' midfield took fool control. Cosmin Dobrescu, and substitute Mabel Finnemark scored in the second half with their side never really looking at all like losing. Kings Park were this time on the wrong end of a 4-3 result, as manager Eric Desmond seams unable to stop the side leaking goals. Jack Hobbs was the hero of the hour as he scored twice for the boys and girls in grey. Scott Cooper also found the net in his return to his former club, as did Tommy Wilson with a freekick at the start of the second half. The Royals were in the game for the full 90 minutes, and will be disappointed that goals from Felix Scholl, Alan Doolan, and Jack Gordon were not enough. FC Soessch have a lot of ground to make up after their atrocious start to the season, but they are going the right way about rectifying matters with a 5-0 win over Hillstreet. In what was the North Island side's best performance this season, Johan Shearer, Konstantin Holstad (2), Bruno Schwartz, and Till Ümann all made their mark.
Cornellians 4–3 Port Sebastian Marionville 4–3 Port James Athletic Lammerton City 1–3 Lammerton Handon United 1–0 Herman Park New Island 0–0 New Belfast Blues FC Soessch 1–0 Soessch 1990 Port Patrick 3–0 Hillstreet La Gorlions 0–1 D'Itille Kings Park 3–2 Hollin New Belfast Warriors 4–2 Granton Vale
Cornellians finally got their act together and delivered sucker-punch to league leaders Port Sebastian, with a 4-3 victory, which hardly looked likely a couple of weeks ago. Eloisa Purrinton broke the deadlock with the first of her two goals early in the first half, getting a hold of a Mark Kelman cross, before hitting her shot low under Chris Gonzaö. Her side added a second not long after when Eula Richard turned in a Cosumin Dobrescu ball, driven across the face of the goal. Port Sebastian did respond, and after Jonathan Bia was brought down in the box, Paul Coine tucked away the resulting penalty. The Eagle extended their lead, however, on the stroke of half time when Tsumugi Narita found Kathryn Kvanderwyk in space. The Cosumarite DBC player pulled the trigger to give her side a comfortable lead heading up the tunnel. The match was over shortly after the restart when Purrinton was again on target as Mable Finnemark headered the former Saints full-back Triffid Ramsey's cross back across goal for the Gloriaxian to nod home from close range. Port Sebastian set up a nervy last five minutes with two late goals from Demba Traore and Emeline Millet, but there was never really a question of the Eagles not holding out. This result would have been music to the ears of Handon United and Lammerton, who were able to pull level with the long time league leaders. Again United made hard work of a team they really should have been thumping, but most crucially they took all three points. Marko Simonsen's header on 35 minutes came back off the post and fell kindly into the path of Aya Bernman who had a tap in for the only goal of the game. For Lammerton on the other hand, it was the city derby, and a match they were never going to leave without all the bragging rights. Aaron Marcie got the Hornets off to a flyer after only six minutes, and thy never looked back form there. John Cooper and Timo Düd added goals in the second half as their side ran out 3-1 winners.
Port Sebastian 2–0 Granton Vale Hollin 2–4 New Belfast Warriors D'Itille 3–5 Kings Park Hillstreet 1–1 La Gorlions Soessch 1990 0–0 Port Patrick New Belfast Blues 2–2 FC Soessch Herman Park 0–1 New Island Lammerton 1–3 Handon United Port James Athletic 3–3 Lammerton City Cornellians 5–2 Marionville
Cornellians kept up their fine scoring form this week with a 5-2 win over Marionville. Eloisa Purrinton scored two, as her side began to haul themselves within striking distance of the leaders. Their task will be made all the easier with the top sides all taking points off of each other, and that was exactly what happened as Handon United defeated Lammerton 3-1 at the city ground. United's fans must be starting to sense something in the air, new manager, new squad, and a really solid backbone throughout the team. They will have been hoping that Port Sebastian would continue to drop more points as their poor run of form continued. However, one of the hallmarks of a good side it the ability to win even when you don't play well, and that was the case as they defeated Granton Vale 2-0 at home. New Belfast Warriors kept some of the pace going with a 4-2 win at Hollin. The Belker Boys found the net twice with goals from Alistair Carlyle and Fred Dawson, but The Whalers were simply too good for them, and Holly Addison, Ivan Archic, Jenny Lundergrand, and substitute Ian Wilson all scored for the champions of two years back.
Marionville 1–1 Port Sebastian Lammerton City 4–6 Cornellians Handon United 0–0 Port James Athletic New Island 0–0 Lammerton FC Soessch 1–0 Herman Park Port Patrick 3–2 New Belfast Blues La Gorlions 1–0 Soessch 1990 Kings Park 2–1 Hillstreet New Belfast Warriors 3–1 D'Itille Granton Vale 2–0 Hollin
The fans piling into Lochend Park are certainly getting their money's worth at the moment and Cornellians' 6-4 win over Lammerton City was not without it's fair share of ups and downs. For the second week in a row captain Eloisa Purrinton scored twice her side. That was accompanied by strikes form Ghantish striker Damien Sturridge, Cosmin Dobrescu, Triffid Ramsey, and Scott Burton. The result, coupled with Handon United, Lammerton, and Port Sebastian all being held to draws meant that it ended up being a very good day at the office for Alexander Pearce's boys and girls. Elsewhere, in what was an otherwise uneventful week, Kings Park beat Hillstreet 2-1 with Felix Scholl scoring twice. Fredrick Houben's 39th minute header was all it took for The Lions to overcome a woeful Soessch 90. Chris Dickson's freekick was turned over the line by Bruno Schwartz as FC Soessch picked up all three points against Herman Park. And finally, Port Patrick continue to look like the pick of the promoted sides with a 3-2 win at home to NBB.
Port Sebastian 3–3 Hollin Granton Vale 2–4 D'Itille New Belfast Warriors 2–1 Hillstreet Kings Park 1–0 Soessch 1990 La Gorlions 3–1 New Belfast Blues Port Patrick 1–0 Herman Park FC Soessch 3–3 Lammerton New Island 1–0 Port James Athletic Handon United 1–0 Cornellians Lammerton City 3–3 Marionville
When it starts to go wrong, it can often really go wrong; this being the case with Port Sebastian throwing away a 3-1 lead to draw at home with Hollin. The side's disintegration, which has coincided with the league reaching it's half way stage continued, as Chris Jack and Fred Dawson struck in the closing stages, to leave the home fans raging a manager Conner Watts, who had presided over a similar debacle last season. It was always going to be written in the scrip, Dawson, the striker deemed surplus to requirements, would be the one to deal a fatal blow to his former charges. And the 22-year-old did just that on 86 minutes when he scrambled the ball home form inside the six-yard-box. The importance of this result was made all the more apparent when news of Handon United's 1-0 win over Cornellians came through. In what had been one of the most eagerly anticipated matches of the season so far, Serge Mavididi's well taken strike at the start of the second half was all that separated the teams and gave United a return to the top of the table for the first time in three seasons. They were helped, of course, by Lammerton's inability to defeat FC Soessch, although it is hardly easy to get a result like that. Konstantin Holstad scored twice for Soessch, as they battled their way to a hard earned point against a Hornets side that have been impressive this season. There was also a good win this week for the Lions, who defeated NBB 3-1 with goals from Davy Ellan, Billy Small, and Jago Avelione. East Vormsi born teenager Aleksander Heino-Watanabe, was on target for The Blues.
Lammerton City 1–3 Port Sebastian Marionville 2–2 Handon United Cornellians 4–0 New Island Port James Athletic 1–2 FC Soessch Lammerton 1–3 Port Patrick Herman Park 1–1 La Gorlions New Belfast Blues 1–2 Kings Park Soessch 1990 0–3 New Belfast Warriors Hillstreet 0–3 Granton Vale D'Itille 3–5 Hollin
Somehow Port Patrick have found themselves knocking on the door of UICA football, and this weeks 3-1 win at Lammerton really underlined the fact that they are a quality side. The Hornets were second to every ball as The Breakers totally outplayed them with the impressive Heron Crew giving his side the lead. The big striker rose highest to turn in a Esther Abner corner. Willie McIntyre added a second early in the second half, and despite Mars Alexandersson pulling one back for Lammerton, Cerys Kennicot rounded things off with a left footed strike from the edge of the box. Cornellians needed a big recovery from the 1-0 defeat to Handon United, and thy got it in the form of a 4-0 win over New Island. There is barely a week goes by where Eloisa Purrinton is not on the score sheet, and this proved no different. The Gloriaxian's strike opened the scoring, and was followed up by goals from Mark Kelman, Kathryn Kvanderwyk, and Cosmin Dobrescu. Port Sebastian were also able to take advantage of both Lammerton's defeat and Handon United's draw with Marionville, as they won 3-1 at City go back to the top of the table. Paul Coine scored yet again for Porty, as did Paul Doig and Demba Traore, in what is shaping up as a great debut SPL season for the Semarland youngster.
Port Sebastian 4–1 D'Itille Hollin 3–0 Hillstreet Granton Vale 1–0 Soessch 1990 New Belfast Warriors 5–4 New Belfast Blues Kings Park 3–0 Herman Park La Gorlions 0–0 Lammerton Port Patrick 4–2 Port James Athletic FC Soessch 1–0 Cornellians New Island 1–2 Marionville Handon United 3–1 Lammerton City
The Warriors look set to be one of the sides heading into the final third of this season as title challengers, and their 5-4 victory in an animated New Belfast derby was the latest in a line impressive results. Jock Sonny's players had their work cut out against a very lively Blues side, and in particular youngsters Aleksander Heino-Watanabe and Shu tested the home side time and time again. With the match every evenly poised it was a goal from Adrienne O'Callahan, which settled matters however, as the Quebecois winger slid in at the back post to turn Holly Addison's miss hit cross over the line. A defeat for Lammerton coupled with wins for Handon sides Port Sebastian and United this week, left us asking if this is the beginning of a two horse race. Isaac Nketiah, Nik Konstidios and Esteke Inanuk all scored for Handon Uited as they made light work of Lammerton City; and Emeline Millet (2), Chiyoko, and Joey Bia did likewise for The Steelmen in their encounter with D'Ittile. In spite of these impressive performances, the in form side this season continues to be Port Patrick who made Athletic look very average as they put four past them at Galloway Lane.
Handon United 1–2 Port Sebastian Lammerton City 0–0 New Island Marionville 4–1 FC Soessch Cornellians 2–1 Port Patrick Port James Athletic 1–2 La Gorlions Lammerton 2–0 Kings Park Herman Park 0–2 New Belfast Warriors New Belfast Blues 2–1 Granton Vale Soessch 1990 0–1 Hollin Hillstreet 2–0 D'Itille
Cornellians were able to breath a sigh of relief as many in the media were predicting an upset when they played host to Port Patrick. The Eagles managed to settle some early nerves with a stunning Cosmin Dobrescu freekick, the Jedorian star curling in a 35-yard-effort, in what will surely be added to the goal of the season shortlist. The Breakers got themselves back into the game, and indeed they responded through former Handon Ladies striker Jane Swanson, who was able to latch onto a Kevin Morton pass. In the end however, it was the champions who had the last word and Messilan midfielder Eula Richard won the game with her sixth strike of the season. One of the fiercest matches in Schottic football is the Handon derby, and when it is an old-fashioned six-pointer, the stakes are even higher. Handon United took the lead in this match through Colin Donaldson, but they never truly looked comfortable and a Joey Bia double in the second half took Port Sebastian back to the top of the table, with a great win over their arch-rivals.
Port Sebastian 2–0 Hillstreet D'Itille 5–1 Soessch 1990 Hollin 1–0 New Belfast Blues Granton Vale 3–1 Herman Park New Belfast Warriors 3–4 Lammerton Kings Park 4–2 Port James Athletic La Gorlions 0–2 Cornellians Port Patrick 2–1 Marionville FC Soessch 4–3 Lammerton City New Island 0–0 Handon United
With the season already reaching the final third the league seems to have tightened up a little, and that continued to be the case this week with Handon United dropping points for a second consecutive week, this time at New Island. There was also reprieve for Lammerton this weekend, as they managed to win 4-3 against The Warriors, in a match which had defeat written all over it. The Hornets have been accused of being over reliant of the attacking three of Cooper, McCormack, and Alexandersen, but on this occasion that trust was not misplaced, as a spirited Whalers side were beaten off over the course of 90 minutes. Port Patrick somehow continue to surprise everyone with a win over Marionville which keeps them up near the top of the table. The North Handon side were outstanding for the fifth week running with goals form Kevin Morton and Heron Crew. Cornellians also continued to right the wrongs from their dismal start to the season, with a 2-0 win at La Gorlions, a tricky place to pick up points. And finally, Port Sebastian took the opportunity to open up a six point gap at the top of the table, as Chiyoko and Demba Traore gave their side the easiest of wins over Hillstreet.
New Island 1–0 Port Sebastian Handon United 1–0 FC Soessch Lammerton City 2–3 Port Patrick Marionville 3–3 La Gorlions Cornellians 1–1 Kings Park Port James Athletic 2–1 New Belfast Warriors Lammerton 4–1 Granton Vale Herman Park 0–2 Hollin New Belfast Blues 5–2 D'Itille Soessch 1990 0–2 Hillstreet
New Island followed up their shock result against United with an even more impressive 1-0 win over league leaders Port Sebastian. The result, coupled with wins for Handon United and Lammerton means that there is only four points separating the top three as we reach week 25. After those three comes The New Belfast Warriors on 48 points, but if truth be told, they have fallen away a little over the last four or five weeks. Snapping at their heels are this seasons surprise package Port Patrick, as they leapfrog Cornellians and Kings Park with both teams playing out a 1-1 draw. 8th 9th and 10th are FC Soessch, Marionville and La Gorlions, who will all be disappointed to be stranded so far down the table. There is little surprise that Hillstreet, Herman Park, and 90 are all in the relegation mix, but one side we are shocked to see is New Island. So promising coming into the season they will be hoping to climb out of trouble at the expense of Lammerton City.
Monthly Awards:
Player: Demba Traore -- Port Sebastian Traore is a player who has really exploded out of the traps this season. His combination of speed, power, and acceleration has been key to his side commanding a spot at the top of the table. He has slotted in well alongside the existing elements of the Port Sebastian attack, providing the goals they lacked last season.
Young Player: Tsumugi Narita -- Cornellians The Kirisakian has been central to Cornellians' revival and the player who reached the final of the Di Bradini Cup aged only 15 continues to pull all the strings in her side's midfield.
Manager: Carl Sorensen -- Handon United It was never going to be the easiest job in the world, coming into Handon United with the level of expectation, but Sorensen has guided the team into a position where they can challenge for the title and instilled a never say die attitude in the players.
Player: Heron Crew -- Port Patrick There are very few who would have predicted that Crew could have made this kind of impact in the top flight. An average player who has never played outside the second tier of Schottic football, has been one of the shining lights as his team exceed all expectations.
Young Player: Aleksander Heino-Watanabe -- New Belfast Blues The 17-year-old has been thrust into the limelight in a team desperately looking for results, and he has equipped himself exceptionally well. Fast and direct in possession, he has rightly draw comparisons to Port Sebastian's Joey Bia
Manager: Aleaxander Pearce -- Cornellians After a rocky start his side are back in the running, and for a string of impressive results, the award rightly goes to the former Cosumar international.
Player: Eloisa Purrinton -- Cornellians The goal machine, who just cannot stop scoring. It seems that number one tactic for Cornellians should be get the ball to Purrinton and let her do the rest. A great footballing head, top-class positioning, and technical ability; one of the best players to ever play in the SPL.
Young Player: John McCormack -- Lammerton Last season's young player of the year, and doing his best to take the gong again this time round. He has been given a new lease of life being played as a centre-forward as opposed to a wing-forward.
Manager: Des Pleent -- Port Patrick The gaffer surely has to take some of the credit for his side's excellent standing in the league. After winning the Regional A Division last year, he cannot have been expecting to be challenging for a UICA spot this time round.
Handon United 1–0 Regional Development Side A Lammerton City 1–0 Kirk Preston United Kings Park 5–3 New Belfast Blues New Belfast Warriors 3–1 Lammerton
Posted: Fri Jan 01, 2016 12:53 pm
by Schottia
Matchday Twenty six - Thirty eight
SPL Port Sebastian 2–0 Soessch 1990 Hillstreet 0–2 New Belfast Blues D'Itille 0–1 Herman Park Hollin 3–1 Lammerton Granton Vale 0–5 Port James Athletic New Belfast Warriors 0–0 Cornellians Kings Park 4–2 Marionville La Gorlions 0–0 Lammerton City Port Patrick 2–5 Handon United FC Soessch 1–1 New Island
Handon United threw everything except the kitchen sink at it this week in an attempt to dislodge their city neighbours from top spot, and in spite of their best efforts, Port Sebastian continued to hold on with a business like 2-0 win against Soessch 1990. United threw caution to the wind and managed to inflict a massive 5-2 defeat on Port Patrick, in one of their best performances of the season. Alf Seggerson was instrumental in the victory, as was young Christian Lovenkrands, who continues to grow in stature. Another talented United kid, Rachael Del Arro, grabbed her sides fifth goal to complete the demolishing on 89 minutes. With several of the top sides all suffering setbacks, the only other potential title contender to come out of this weekend in good shape was Kings Park, their win over Marionville moving them up to equal fourth. No one enjoys facing the Kings Park attack, and even the normally outstanding Pearce Brice was helpless as the Royals found the net four times. Pick of the bunch was a Francis Keelinan freekick, which the Schottia cap curled in under the crossbar from the angle of the box. Port James Athletic continued to show the odd sign of life as the somehow produced a 5-0 win against Granton Vale out of nowhere. Dharla Bhosz scored twice, and there were also goals from young Semar, Remaine Clarke, Ismal Keirut, and Northern Sunriser Tomoaki Neyama.
FC Soessch 0–0 Port Sebastian New Island 0–1 Port Patrick Handon United 2–0 La Gorlions Lammerton City 3–1 Kings Park Marionville 3–1 New Belfast Warriors Cornellians 7–0 Granton Vale Port James Athletic 1–0 Hollin Lammerton 6–2 D'Itille Herman Park 1–4 Hillstreet New Belfast Blues 3–0 Soessch 1990
This week Cornellians managed to produce the form of champions, whith a 7-0 wipe out of a sorry Granton Vale, who really seem to be flagging at the moment. Cosmin Dobrescu scored either side of half time, as the Jedorian put in a five star performance, after Santiago Lowe had opened the scoring five minutes in. Captain Eloisa Purrinton added a fourth from the penalty spot, after Eula Richard was downed by the keeper. Kathryn Kvanderwyk, Damien Sturridge, and Mark Kelman all contributed late goals, but by then the result was a forgone conclusion. Given their terrible start to the season, the recent up turn in fortunes will be of massive relief to manager Alexander Pearce who must feel a lot more secure in his job as his side move up into UICA contention. With Port Sebastian held to a 0-0 draw with FC Soessch, Handon United and Lammerton once more took the chance to narrow the gap. United managed to hold of an always-dangerous La Gorlions; Nik Konstidios, and Serge Mavididi both found the net in the second half. However, it was Lammerton who created the real talking point, with a 6-2 win over D'Itille. There was two goals apiece for both the Johns, Cooper and McCormack, with the additional firepower provided by Mars Alexanderssson and Aaron Marcie.
Port Sebastian 1–0 New Belfast Blues Soessch 1990 1–0 Herman Park Hillstreet 1–2 Lammerton D'Itille 3–1 Port James Athletic Hollin 1–4 Cornellians Granton Vale 3–6 Marionville New Belfast Warriors 3–1 Lammerton City Kings Park 2–1 Handon United La Gorlions 1–0 New Island Port Patrick 2–2 FC Soessch
Cornellians took the momentum from their massive win over Granton, in to this week's encounter with Hollin. It is never easy to go to East Belker and get a win, however, The Eagles did that in comfortable fashion, with three second half goals which saw them run out deserved winners 4-1. Fred Dawson had intially cancelled out Eula Richard's opener, however Cornellians came back with goals from Eloisa Purrinton, Mabel Finnemark, and Cosmin Dobrescu to give the champs a well earned victory. Kings Park this week managed to boost their UICA football hopes, and at the same time, put a dent in those of their opponents Handon United. Marko Simonsen opened the scoring for United with a deflected shot from the edge of the 18-yard-box, but the Royals were able to turn things around, Erin Braden and Alan Doolan both converting in the latter stages. Finally there was still no sign of improvement for poor Granton Vale, who had to endure a 6-3 thumping at the hands of Marionville. Pasargan teenager Vojnomir Nikolic scored twice along with goals from Michael Maxwell, Barry Stewart, and, Jarred Clotterman. Jack Hobbs, Tommy Wilson, and Scott Cooper found the net for the Beachcombers in what was tantamount to little more than consolation.
Port Patrick 5–4 Port Sebastian FC Soessch 2–0 La Gorlions New Island 0–1 Kings Park Handon United 3–0 New Belfast Warriors Lammerton City 0–2 Granton Vale Marionville 4–4 Hollin Cornellians 3–1 D'Itille Port James Athletic 3–2 Hillstreet Lammerton 2–0 Soessch 1990 Herman Park 0–0 New Belfast Blues
This week's big match was a Handon derby, and the second battle of the ports. Port Patrick, on this occasion, came out on top after what was a very difficult battle, winning 5-4. Heron Crew, once again, proved to be the difference between the sides and his 82 minute goal, turning in a Willie McIntyre cross at full stretch, kept his side in the UICA chase. Handon United will also be very happy with their performance this week, a 3-0 win over The Warriors is no mean feat. Isaac Nketiah scored a great goal in this match, when he caught a Rimo Hemnes cross on the volley, finding the corner of the goal. The strike was the icing on the cake in a game where we really saw United at their best. Cornellians also kept the goals coming with a 3-1 win over D'Itille. Sturridge, Narita, and Lowe all scored, and had their side started the season in this fashion, they would not have nearly as much ground to make up now. There was also a win for Lammerton who are desperately trying to keep pace, and a 2-0 win over the Lions for FC Soessch, who have been left toiling this season for some inexplicable reason.
Port Sebastian 1–0 Herman Park New Belfast Blues 1–2 Lammerton Soessch 1990 0–1 Port James Athletic Hillstreet 2–4 Cornellians D'Itille 0–2 Marionville Hollin 1–1 Lammerton City Granton Vale 0–0 Handon United New Belfast Warriors 5–0 New Island Kings Park 4–1 FC Soessch La Gorlions 1–1 Port Patrick
A late Emilne Millet goal was all Port Sebastian needed to take all three points from their home tie with Herman Park, though in truth they rode their luck at times. The Ko-oren midfielder took advantage of a mix up in the Millers' defence, when Jack Breeks' back pass was hit woefully short, drilling the loose ball home under Tom Ryan. Cornellians continue to do their goal difference no harm at all with a 4-2 win at Hillstreet. Eloisa Purrinton scored a first half hat trick, and there was also a late strike from Kathryn Kvanderwyk, who is really starting to come on to a game. Both Hillstreet's goals, one from Phillip Hanalii and one from Dirk Levee, came against the run of play. Granton Vale put in a top defensive display this week to keep Handon United at bay, as the club continue to battle for their very lives. Ironically it was Nathaniel Bueno-Wells, sent out by United to get some first team experience, who put in the best performance, holding his parent club to a 0-0 draw. Finally New Belfast Warriors put in a 'Five-Star' performance to leave New Island stuck in relegation trouble. James Blantery opened the scoring, as he rose to nod in a Craig O'Maramy corner, shortly before Holly Addison's surging run into the box drew on a foul from Andy Berry, with Ivan Archic tucking away the resulting penalty. O'Maramy added a third just after half time, and Jenny Lundergrand and Kris Scott both scored late on in the resounding victory.
La Gorlions 2–2 Port Sebastian Port Patrick 6–3 Kings Park FC Soessch 3–1 New Belfast Warriors New Island 2–0 Granton Vale Handon United 0–0 Hollin Lammerton City 3–6 D'Itille Marionville 3–2 Hillstreet Cornellians 1–0 Soessch 1990 Port James Athletic 3–4 New Belfast Blues Lammerton 5–0 Herman Park
Cornellians, Lammerton (and now we really have to include Port Patrick), all recorded wins as the top two slipped up, to ensure that the title race would go to the wire. Languising in the bottom half at one point this season, Cornellians now find themselves a good bet to pick up the title as they edged out bottom side Soessch 1990, Mark Kelman scoring the only goal. Lammerton, by contrast, were emphatic in their victory, putting five past Herman Park with no reply. It's debatable whether or not there is a better striker in the country than John McCormack right now, and he was again in the thick of it, as his side launched attack after attack. If the Hornets are able to keep going the way they are, then they have a great chance of being the first side other than FC Soessch to take the title out of the Greater Handon area in 25 years. Port Patrick's display was all the more impressive because of whom they were playing, last year's runners-up Kings Park. The combination of Heron Crew through the middle, supported by two good, early crossers in the form of Cerys Kennicot and Willie McIntyre seems to be a winning formula. On paper this squad of players really shouldn't be this good, but somehow the SPL defences just don't have an answer to this style of play. Crew was again on the score sheet with two well taken goals, finding himself in the crazy position of competing with the likes of Eloisa Purrinton, Ivan Archic, Alan Doolan, and Serge Mavididi for top scorer.
Port Sebastian 1–0 Lammerton Herman Park 2–2 Port James Athletic New Belfast Blues 3–1 Cornellians Soessch 1990 0–1 Marionville Hillstreet 6–3 Lammerton City D'Itille 3–6 Handon United Hollin 2–0 New Island Granton Vale 1–2 FC Soessch New Belfast Warriors 2–1 Port Patrick Kings Park 3–1 La Gorlions
Port Sebastian managed to get the response they were looking for following the disappointment of their 2-2 draw with La Gorlions. Stopping Lammerton from running wild is no easy thing to do, but they managed it, and in true Porty form, they nicked a goal of their own to keep the title challenge on. Jack Baxter was the unlikely source of the goal, jumping highest to head in a trademark Paul Doig long throw. It was also a much better weekend for Handon United who defeated D'Itille 6-3 away. Despite their opponents looking very strong in attack, United managed to stay strong and three goals in the last 20 minutes gave the score line a much better look. United had five different scorers in this match, showing that they have a lot of goals in their current side. Cornellians will not be so happy however, somehow letting things slip, as they were stunned 3-1 at NBB. David Millar, Shu, and Sam Saxon all scored for the blues, with Damian Sturridge knocking in a consolation goal for The Eagles.
Kings Park 1–0 Port Sebastian La Gorlions 4–5 New Belfast Warriors Port Patrick 3–0 Granton Vale FC Soessch 1–2 Hollin New Island 0–2 D'Itille Handon United 2–3 Hillstreet Lammerton City 1–0 Soessch 1990 Marionville 2–2 New Belfast Blues Cornellians 1–0 Herman Park Port James Athletic 0–1 Lammerton
This really was a chance for Port Sebastian to finish matters with only five fixture left but their inability to take their chances against Kings Park, has allowed Cornellians and Lammerton right back on their heels. Alan Doolan sprung up on 54 minutes to tuck away a Felix Scholl pass, as Porty spurned their fair share of chances to win the game early on. Handon United were left unable to take advantage of the situation however, as they went down 3-2 to the seemingly relegation bound Hillstreet. Cornellians and Lammerton did on the other hand, record victories, even if they did have to work hard for 1-0 wins over Herman Park and Port James respectively. Elsewhere in a nine-goal-thriller, the Warriors defeated La Gorlions at Danu Parc, with thanks to an Adrienne O'Callahan double. Hollin upset FC Soessch 2-1 as Die rote Teufel's season goes from bad to worse. And Finally Port Patrick were at it again with a comfortable 3-0 win over Granton Vale, Kevin Morton putting in a stalwart performance in the midfield.
Port Sebastian 2–0 Port James Athletic Lammerton 2–2 Cornellians Herman Park 0–1 Marionville New Belfast Blues 0–0 Lammerton City Soessch 1990 0–2 Handon United Hillstreet 0–1 New Island D'Itille 1–1 FC Soessch Hollin 1–0 Port Patrick Granton Vale 1–1 La Gorlions New Belfast Warriors 1–2 Kings Park
The feature match this week was Lammerton verses Cornellians, with neither side likely to be happy with anything other than a win. In the end no one had their way, as The Eagles came from behind twice to deny The Hornets on their home patch. Northwestern Sunriser Mars Alexandersson's shot from the edge deflected in off of Scott Burton to give her side the lead after ten minutes, before Cosmin Dobrescu chipped Tim fines five minutes later to level things. The match remained evenly poised for the rest of the first half before John Copper restored his sides lead with a quarter of an hour to go. Salvaging an important point for her side was Eula Richard, the Messilan midfielder receiving a nod down from substitute Mabel Finnemark to end things 2-2. For the other sides at the top of the table, it was a good week for Kings Park, Handon United, Port Sebastian. League leaders Porty beat Athletic 2-0 with goals form Paul Coine and Demba Traore, United had Nik Konstidious and Christian Lovenkrands to thank for a similar score line against 1990, and Francis Keelinan and Darren O'Brian helped The Royals to a 2-1 win over the Warriors.
New Belfast Warriors 4–3 Port Sebastian Kings Park 0–1 Granton Vale La Gorlions 2–1 Hollin Port Patrick 0–1 D'Itille FC Soessch 1–0 Hillstreet New Island 1–0 Soessch 1990 Handon United 4–0 New Belfast Blues Lammerton City 2–0 Herman Park Marionville 6–4 Lammerton Cornellians 2–0 Port James Athletic
Four matches to go and things could not be much tighter as Port Sebastian, Lammerton, Cornellians, and Handon United battle it out for the title and a spot in the Champion's Cup. This may become a fixture, which comes back to haunt Port Sebastian the early pace setters, stumbling 4-3 against a Warriors side who are all but out of the running. Chiyoko Sakuraka, Jonathan Bia, and Paul Coine all scored for Porty, but it proved to be the case that there was still some fight in The Warriors, who struck with a Craig O'Maramy double, and goals from Jenny Lundergrand, and Ian Wilson. Lammerton, in an even higher scoring match, lost 6-4 to Marionville, and will feel that the have potentially blown their chance. Barry Stewart once again was the driving force behind everything the Old Boys did, and surely cannot be ignored for a Schottia cap any longer. The 28-year-old has also struck up a great partnership this season with Pasargan teenager Vojnomir Nikolic who was on the score sheet again today. Despite a great disply from Aaron Marcie in the midfield, Lammerton will have to hope for slip-ups now if they are to be crowned champions. For Handon United it was a flawless performance with no such problems. Isaac Nketiah, Serge Mavididi, and Alfred Seggerson (2) all found the net in the 4-0 rout of NBB. And Cornellains dished up an equally comfortable 2-0 win at Lochend, Kathryn Kvanderwyk, and Triffid Ramsey both scoring with will taken goals.
Port Sebastian 3–3 Cornellians Port James Athletic 4–3 Marionville Lammerton 0–0 Lammerton City Herman Park 1–0 Handon United New Belfast Blues 4–2 New Island Soessch 1990 0–0 FC Soessch Hillstreet 0–1 Port Patrick D'Itille 2–1 La Gorlions Hollin 1–1 Kings Park Granton Vale 6–2 New Belfast Warriors
What a chance it was for any of the top teams to put them selves in the driver's seat, but the pressure was obviously immense, as none of the top four clubs managed to win their matches. When looking back on this weekend at the end of the season, droped points and the opportunity missed will surely be apparent. Port Sebastian had leave it very late to salvage a point at home to Cornellians, Joey Bia was the hero of the hour, and may very well have rescued any chances the host side had of winning the title. The Eagles are playing some very good football at them moment, and a point here, away from home, would normally be considered a good result. However despite being the on form team at the moment, they're terrible start to the season means that retaining their title will be hard. Lammerton were next to pass-up the chance as the Lammerton derby ended goalless. Handon United imploded with one of their worst results all season, losing 1-0 to Herman Park. In fact the only side to come out of this week with anything pisitve to say were Port Patrick, who won 1-0 at Hillstreet to close the gap to the UICA spots even further.
Granton Vale 2–2 Port Sebastian New Belfast Warriors 3–2 Hollin Kings Park 1–2 D'Itille La Gorlions 3–1 Hillstreet Port Patrick 3–0 Soessch 1990 FC Soessch 2–3 New Belfast Blues New Island 2–0 Herman Park Handon United 4–1 Lammerton Lammerton City 1–3 Port James Athletic Marionville 1–4 Cornellians
The week where Port Sebastian finally bottled it. The side went down 2-0 to Granton Vale, and despite laying siege to the Beachcombers' goal for about 60 minutes they couldn't recover, and the match ended 2-2. Will Rybka and Jack Hobbs struck early on as Granton Vale had an excellent opening 30 minutes. Porty went all out attack, and Emilne Millet and Demba Traore struck back, but somehow Granton were able to hold out. Handon United went top of the table with only one game left to play, and did it in style defeating Lammerton 4-1 at Harbour Hll. Aya Bernman opened the scoring for United, with Isaac Nketiah adding another soon after. John McCormack pulled one back for the Hornets before half time, but second half goals from Rachael Del Arro and Nik Konstidious gave the home side a comfortable win. It is still mathematically possible for Cornellians at finish top of the league, but with Handon United winning comfortably, it will take a miracle. Either way they continued to finish strongly, and in terms of points gained in the second half of the season, are miles ahead. There was no danger of them coming away from their visit to Marionville with anything less than a win, and the made the Old Boys, who are no slouches, look very average. Tsumugi Narita and Cosmin Dobrescu sprayed passes round all afternoon, as the Eagles were always half a pace ahead of their opponents.
Port Sebastian 4–1 Marionville Cornellians 4–1 Lammerton City Port James Athletic 0–0 Handon United Lammerton 5–1 New Island Herman Park 1–2 FC Soessch New Belfast Blues 1–2 Port Patrick Soessch 1990 0–1 La Gorlions Hillstreet 0–4 Kings Park D'Itille 1–1 New Belfast Warriors Hollin 3–2 Granton Vale
Going into the final game the title was Handon United's to throw away. Three sides could have clinched it this weekend although Cornellians needed something special. Both The Eagles and Porty ran out 4-1 winners in their fixtures so the pressure was back on United with most people expecting they could handle a very average Port James team. However these things in football are never so easy and a nervy United performance led to a 0-0 draw and handed the title to Port Sebastian, something few would have bet on at the start of the season. It has been a long road for Port Sebastian and they will get a first taste of Champion's Cup football next season, in Schottia's second year entering in the UICA competitions. There have been a few signs of life in the SPL with a huge push over the last two years, both to retain top talent and stop player seeking a higher level of competition abroad, this has been coupled with an attempt to bring in new and exciting players. It will be interesting to see if Port Sebastian can keep a hold of the stars, which delivered this title success as last time round both Gary Corsie and Mark Allen headed quickly to the exit door soon after. Grabbing the third Globe Cup spot were Lammerton, and it was well deserved as the Hornets have had another vey good year. Kings Park, Port Patrick, and New Belfast Warriors just missed out. At the bottom of the table, Herman Park, Soessch 1990, Hillstreet, and New Island all go down to the second tier, with New Island coming closest to staying up, just one point off of Lammerton City. It will be mind numbingly disappointing for the South Berwick side, who have becoming something of a yoyo club in recent years.
Monthly Awards:
Player: Stephan Gargo-- Cornellians Alexander Pearce's prodigious centre half has proved himself to be an important addition to the team, as Cornellians really seem to be making up for lost time in terms of performances this month. Although he is only 21 and has a long way to go, there are already signs a top class player emerging.
Young Player: Isaac Nketiah -- Handon United Nketiah is one of the players who has made a positive impact for United as they move into the Sorensen era, and has contributed far more than goals this season. Whether the manager can keep him in the SPL long term or not, he has a big future in the game.
Manager: Alexander Pearce -- Cornellians Some very impressive wins this month and it made allocating this award pretty easy. Had The Eagles played like this all season, they would be well on their way to their second title on the bounce.
Player: Triffid Ramsey -- Cornellians Must be commended on her recent call up to the Iskandervale squad for the AOCAF Cup 49, one of three SPL players competing in the tournament. It has been a terrific end to the season for Cornellians and Ramsey's pace in the attack is a big feature of the side's play.
Young Player: Erin Braden -- Kings Park Had a great season last year, and she has now become a big player for her club. A tall, agile, box to box midfielder, Braden is now regarded one of the best young players in the league.
Manager: Des Pleent-- Port Patrick Again, another good month for The Breakers, as their incredible season continues. Relative to the wages of the squad, it woul be hard for anyone to match them this year.
Player: Cerys Kennicot-- Port Patrick Kennicot put in some top-class performances this month, and at times we had to remind ourselves that we weren't watching a world-stage star. At only 22, there is definitely room for her to improve further, which is the scary part.
Young Player: Kathryn Kvanderwyk -- Cornellians Looks like an excellent find, Kvanderwyk is likely to be an important player for Cornellians in seasons to come. Started two matches towards the tail end of the year, and it might be the case that Pearce is considering tactics along those lines for next season.
Manager: Connor Watts -- Port Sebastian Champions, and quite right that this months accolade goes to the manager of the side who lifted the title despite being something of an outside bet.
Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Port Sebastian 38 23 8 7 84 50 +34 77 Champion's Cup 2 Handon United 38 22 10 6 74 42 +32 76 Globe Cup,Cygnus Cup 3 Cornellians 38 23 6 9 94 55 +39 75 Globe Cup 4 Lammerton 38 23 5 10 90 56 +34 74 Globe Cup 5 Kings Park 38 22 5 11 85 68 +17 71 6 Port Patrick 38 21 7 10 77 60 +17 70 7 New Belfast Warriors 38 21 5 12 86 72 +14 68 8 FC Soessch 38 17 12 9 74 59 +15 63 9 Marionville 38 18 9 11 91 82 +9 63 10 Hollin 38 17 6 15 66 64 +2 57 11 La Gorlions 38 14 13 11 57 51 +6 55 12 D'Itille 38 17 4 17 76 79 −3 55 13 New Belfast Blues 38 14 8 16 63 60 +3 50 14 Port James Athletic 38 14 6 18 63 69 −6 48 15 Granton Vale 38 14 5 19 51 75 −24 47 16 Lammerton City 38 9 10 19 56 81 −25 37 17 New Island 38 10 6 22 26 54 −28 36 relegated 18 Hillstreet 38 8 3 27 44 82 −38 27 relegated 19 Soessch 1990 38 2 5 31 7 55 −48 11 relegated 20 Herman Park 38 2 5 31 14 64 −50 11 relegated
Player of Year: 1st: Emiline Millet -- Port Sebastian A player with immense star quality and one of the few world-class acts in this league. The Ko-oren pulls all the strings for the champions in midfield, and has to take some of the credit for their triumph. Combines passing, with great forward runs which draw the opposition out of position, and the kind of clinical finishing which can be the difference in many fixtures.
2nd: Cerys Kennicot -- Port Patrick There just had to be a Port Patrick player on this list somewhere, it was only fair fallowing their outstanding achievements this year. The 22-year-old is arguably the pick of the bunch, and like many of her teammates, she has come out of nowhere and surprised us all with her standard of performance. Kennicot is an agile winger, who likes to cross the ball early, and is never slow in her support of the attackers.
3rd: Eloisa Purrinton -- Cornellians Top goal scorer in the league for two year running now, and the clubs top scorer for the last four. It is hard to believe the club captain is only 24, as she plays with all the confidence of a seasoned striker. Purrinton is absolutely lethal anywhere around the 18-yard-box, and has squeezed home some shots from the tightest of angles.
4th: Serge Mavididi -- Handon United His partnership with Isaac Nketiah was pivotal for United as they got back to winning ways this season. Manager Carl Sorensen will no doubt be desperate to keep the pair of loanees next season, should the club give him the kind of budget he needs to sign the duo permanently. Mavididi just gets the nod over his partner for this award because of his goal contribution, and perhaps the playing style of United suits him ever so slightly more. With a midfielder like Seggerson in the side, who can curl in set pieces all day long the 19-year-old's areal ability comes in handy.
5th: Barry Stewart -- Marionville Marionville's finest, Stewart has been on the award shortlist two years running now. Nothing about his play is particularly eye-catching, but he never mislays a pass, and his ability to press the midfield is really second to none. Unquestionably a Schottia call up, and interest from some bigger clubs must be in the pipeline for this guy.
Golden Boot (Top Scorer): 1st: 33 Eloisa Purinton -- Cornellians
2nd: 26 Demba Traore -- Port Sebastian
3rd: 22 Heron Crew -- Port Patrick
= 4th: 20 Ivan Archic -- Warriors | Serge Mavididi -- Handon United
5th: 19 John McCormack -- Lammerton
=6th: 17 Paul Coine -- Port Sebastian | Vojnomir Nikolic -- Marionville
8th: 16 Francis Keelinan -- Kings Park
9th: 15 Felix Scholl -- Kings Park
=10th: 14 Konstantin Holstad -- FC Soessch | John Cooper -- Lammerton | Jenny Lindergrand -- New Belfast Warriors | Cosmin Dobrescu -- Cornellians | Alan Doolan Kings Park | Isaac Nketiah --Handon United | Mars Alexandersson -- Lammerton
Young Player of The Year: 1st: Serge Mavididi -- Handon United How do you even begin to pick the winner of this award with the influx of so many talented young players this season. Indeed, although they did not make the short list, a special commendation must go out to the likes of Isaac Nketiah, Vojnomir Nikolic, Stephan Gargo, Esther Abner, and Demba Traore, who in previous seasons would have been in with a shout. However one player just slightly out shown the others and that was Semar Wonderkid Serge Mavididi, who gets to place the prestigious award in his trophy cabinet.
2nd: Tsumugi Narita -- Cornellians Poise, pace, and technical ability; everything you would expect from a young Kirisakian. Narita brings something very different to the Cornellians midfield five, and as well as dictating the tempo in the centre of the park, she has a habit of popping up and scoring impotant goals.
3rd: John McCormack -- Lammerton The best player to come through the ranks at Lammerton since Eoin Killanen. John McCormack has been central to the revival at the Hornets over the last two years. After serving his apprenticeship on the wing as a teenager he is now centre stage in this Lammerton attack, spearheading the goal threat.
4th: Joey Bia -- Port Sebastian Bia has had his best season in a couple of years, and has really gotten back to what he is good at, running at defenders and creating opportunities for his side. When he plays like this it is easy to see why he was capped at the age of 17.
5th: Mars Alexandersson -- Lammerton The Northwestern Sunriser has been one of the standout players this season, and something of a surprise package. She has been fantastic going forward and played a very important role as her side secured a Globe Cup spot for a second year running.
Manger of The Year: 1st: John Sedder -- Lammerton Lammeton made the Globe Cup for a second year running, in what has been a great turn around for the club. There can be no doubt that Sedder's stewardship has been integral to this team making a title challenge right up to the last game of the season.
2nd: Des Pleent -- Port Patrick From winning the Regional Division A title - to sixth in the SPL says it all. His team and his players have been a breath of fresh air this year, and he will only hope that he can somehow keep the team together.
3rd: Conner Watts -- Port Sebastian He was assistant manager last time the team won the title and now he has done it as a manager too. Conner Watts nearly took them all the way last year, but they fell apart at the last minute. This time they only just held their nerve.
4th: Carl Sorensen -- Handon United Sorensen brought a steeliness to this side fallowing four seasons of underachievement, and only missed out on the title in the last game of the season. He could never have been expected to work miracles in one year, and he will largely be judged on how his side fairs next time round.
5th: Alexander Pearce -- Cornellians Although the team will be disappointed to have finished third, Cornellians were the on form team towards the end of the season. When you factor in the fact that Pearce had to cut a lot of the playing squad and backroom staff this year then it wasn't a bad job.
Signing of The Year: This is awarded to the incoming player who made the biggest impact relative to price, profile, and reputation.
Kathryn Kvanderwyk -- Cornellians Signed from Cassandra City II, free transfer Went from the fifth tier of Cosumarite football to a player capable of scoring eleven goals for the side finishing third in the SPL. Kvanderwyk's energy really galvanised The Eagles in the second half of the season, and was a extremely effective when used as an impact sub. The teenager scored in the Globe Cup for her club, and her exploits even earned her a call up to the Di Bradini Cup. The fans will be hoping to see a lot more of industrious forward next season.
Team of The Year:
GK == Lucas D'Araby DF == Esther Abner - Scott Burton - Tameka Ninteyseventh - Triffid Ramsey MF == Emiline Millet - Barry Stewart - Cerys Kennicot FW == Eloisa Purinton - Heron Crew - Serge Mavididi
Schottic Cup -- Semi Finals
Lammerton City 0–2 Handon United New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Kings Park
Schottic Cup -- Final
Handon United 2–1 New Belfast Warriors
This year's ultimate match was the Schottic Cup final, were Handon United met last years winners New Belfast Warriors. It seems that in spite of his terrible league form Jock Sonny has some of the cup magic about him. After a very open first half, the score remained 0-0 even though both side had good opportunities in front of goal. Ivan Archic went closest for the Warriors as his side-footed effort from near the penalty spot drew a good save from Lucas D'Araby. United's best chance fell to Serge Mavididi, as the big striker headed Alf Seggerson's corner just wide. All the damage was done for United in a seven-minute spell early in the second half, when first Isaac Nketiah, then Colin Donaldson found the net in something of a Warriors collapse. The New Belfast side then threw everything they had at the opponents and got a foothold back into the game on 80 minutes, when Adrienne O'Callahan's pass for Holly Addison left the Arcadia born midfield in space. The 23-year-old then picked out Archic who scored with a textbook striker's finish to set up a grandstand ending. The Warriors had chances to take it to extra time, but in the end the game finished 2-1, to cap off a good year for the boys and girls in maroon and white.
Regional Divisions - Second Tier In a bid to make football more sustainable in Schottia the second tier is split into four Regional Divisions. This was in an attempt to cut down travel time for fans and players, while giving a greater number of sides a chance at promotion. The champions of each league win promotion to the SPL, and the side finishing bottom is relegated to the Regional Conference. Other sides may be relegated too depending on which sides come down from the SPL, keeping the number of teams in each league at ten.
Division A -Greater Handon, Marionville, New Belfast, and New Scotland.
In Division A there was a little bit of history made as the Development Side cruised home to lift the title. This was the first time one of the four national academy sides won their respective league, and they did it in some style, finishing ten points ahead of Dundee in second. RDS:A are obviously ineligible for promotion, and as a result Dundee make a swift return to the top division. RDS:A would have no doubt been an excellent top flight addition, and Schottic football will reap the benefits of their success in year to come. That said, the side did take advantage of a new ruling allowing them to bring in two overseas players and Anders Karlsberg (SEM), and Dadinho (WSI) both aquitted themselves well. The Western Sunriser, formed an excelent partnership with 21-year-old Višnja Brankovič, who caused opposition defences endless problems.
Player of The Year:
1st: James Berkeley Dundee (DRV) 2nd: Holly Addison RDS:A (SCH/Arcadia) 3rd: Anders Karlsberg RDS:A (SEM)
Golden Boot: 25, Dadinho RDS:A (WSI) 22, Evangeline Querón Handon North (SCH) 18, Višnja Brankovič RDS:A (SCH)
Division B -Central South Schottia, Lammerton, Eastern Eusebia, Port James, and Belker.
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Oak Park Celtic 36 21 11 4 80 38 +42 74 Promoted 2 Mucusia 36 20 12 4 60 33 +27 72 3 Lammerton Wonderers 36 17 10 9 63 45 +18 61 4 Wallshill 36 18 7 11 47 39 +8 61 5 Regional Development Side B 36 17 6 13 54 47 +7 57 6 Port James 36 16 7 13 56 51 +5 55 7 Lammerton Eels 36 11 10 15 58 58 0 43 8 Central Stars 36 10 10 16 45 51 −6 40 9 Frank Region Stars 36 5 4 27 33 82 −49 19 10 Berferd 36 3 7 26 17 69 −52 16 Relegated
Division C -The North Islands, La Gorla, and Bergstadt.
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Berwick United 36 24 5 7 77 36 +41 77 Promoted 2 New Town Thistle 36 21 10 5 62 31 +31 73 3 Regional Development Side D 36 21 4 11 58 48 +10 67 4 Coldstream Farmers Union 36 18 12 6 41 25 +16 66 5 Garvald 36 20 4 12 54 35 +19 64 6 Snubbeak Rock 36 15 8 13 48 44 +4 53 7 Berwick Celtic 36 13 6 17 45 49 −4 45 8 Arnahm 36 6 9 21 32 59 −27 27 9 Stevenson Wonderers 36 2 12 22 23 60 −37 18 10 Lewisden United 36 3 4 29 27 80 −53 13 Relegated
Series B Champions' Cup Play-offs
Semi-finals- Berwick United 3–5 Döllar Oak Park Celtic 3–5 Regional Development Side A
Third place play-off- Oak Park Celtic 2–1 Berwick United
Final- Döllar 1–3 Regional Development Side A
Regional Development Side A, Döllar, and Oak Park Celtic Qualify for the Series B Champions' Cup
Posted: Mon Jan 25, 2016 8:41 am
by Schottia
Minor Leagues - Non UICA
Womens' Super-League The Womens' Super-League predates co-ed football in Schottia, but has been kept in place to help ease the transition for female players into the mixed game. The semi-professional set up has, however, produced some of the nations top stars in recent years, and many young women use it as a chance to get first team experience at an early age. With a surprisingly large niche following, the WSL has an exciting brand of football.
1st: Flora Klee -- Lammerton City 2nd: Luella Svenskah -- West Coast Warriors 3rd: Mandy Christman -- Cornellians WFC 4th: Ella Colburn -- Handon Ladies 5th: Ash Blackett -- Lammerton City
The Football League of East-Vormsi The tiny Schottic territory of East Vormsi, and its population of only thirty thousand, have a small largely armature football league. The ten registered sides fiercely contesting the trophy every year, have to battle against gale force winds, frozen pitches, and must occasionally fetch the ball out of the gardens of neighbouring houses.
Playing squads for the upcoming season, with provisional starting eleven, and notable reserves. Teams listed in no particular order.
------------------ Cornellians FC (formerly Cornellia) Stadium: Lochend Stadium, 80,000 Average attendance: 54,651 Manager: Alexander Pearce Colours: White and green shirts, white shorts. Location: Lochend (Greater Handon) Nick name: The Eagles ------------------
------------------
GK. Jeremy McNott 25, RB. Santiago Lowe 30, LB. Triffid Ramsey 25, CB. Scott Burton 25, CB Stephan Gargo 22,
DM. Eula Richard 24, CM. Tsumugi Narita 18, CM. Casey Brind 33, AMC. Cosmin Dobrescu 28,
CF. Kathryn Kvanderwyk 19 CF. Eloisa Purinton 24,
---subs---
GK. David Prince 22, LB. John Yardlee 24, CB. Gary Hamilton 26,
RM. Jeff Dennis 32, RM. Mark Freute 20, DM. Lucius Hirtius Carus 24, AMC. Mabel Finnemark 20,
CF. Damien Sturridge 23,
In. CM Casey Brind 33, <Vermillion Rage free
Out. CM. Mark Kelman 27, > La Esteponera $4M
Cornellians will be a lot of people's favourites for the title this season and it's easy to see why. The MPL side, turned SPL title chasers have had whirlwind start to life in the Schottic league, winning the title in their debut season and finishing third last time round. Under the stewardship of former Cosumar captain Alexander Pearce, the Eagles have been praised for maintaining their eye-catching football, while having to adjust to the budgetary restraints of their new abode. There have been few changes to the playing staff from last season, as Pearce no doubt looks to settle things down after three years of upheaval. Schottic internationalist Mark Kelman makes way, joining La Esteponera in a $4M move, which should allow the club to keep running a slightly higher wage bill again this season. 33-year-old Nepharim veteran Casey Brind has been brought in after leaving Vermillion Rage on a free transfer, and her experience may well prove crucial. Given the lack of fresh faces, it probably gives us a good indication of Pearce's determination to work with the young players in the squad. Tsumugi Narita has already been a big hit in green and white, while top talents such as Kathryn Kvanderwyk, and Mable Finnemark have also begun to force their way into the fold.
Pound for pound, they should have enough about them to mount a strong title challenge, as illustrated in the way they finished last season, making up huge ground after an terrible start to finish third. First team stars such as Gargo, McNott, Burton, Richard, and Ramsey should all be hitting their prime, so there is every chance we could be about to see the makings of a golden generation at the club. And of course, they have their (not so) secret weapon up front in the form of Eloisa Purinton. The Gloriaxian has been the league's top scorer two years running, and has the kind of quality that few defences have an answer for.
Prediction: 2nd. Second but they'll be in the race right down to wire, in what looks like it's gearing up to be a possible four horse race. There is no doubt that they will be there or there abouts.
------------------ Handon Utd Stadium: Harbour Hill, 55,000 Average attendance: 51,373 Manager: Carl Sorensen Assistant: Karl Renardsen Colours: White and maroon with maroon shorts. Location: Handon Nick name: United ---------------------
In. GK. Janne Mtiliga 18, < Jansberg free CM Devon Carranza -Jones 22, < Jansberg EX DMC Baffour Asante 16, <Semarlandic Academy free OM.SS.ST Mirka Shitakuari 16 <Tsuru no Negumi Academy free
Out. CM Rino Hemnes 18, (Schottia) > Jansberg EX RB Simon Johnson 18, > Jansberg Free
Carl Sorensen made huge inroads in terms of what he needed to achieve with the club's overhaul. The fans will have been relatively happy with the progress made, however the title, which means so much to them still eluded United, who saw it slip into the hands of their oldest rivals. Handon United know nothing other than success, and in a way nothing other than the title will do for many of their supporters. Despite this disappointment, there will be some cause for optimism. United have a good young squad of players, along with a very strong bench, which should allow them to ride out any injuries they might incur (this is something Port Sebastian could struggle with). The club have managed to secure the signatures of rising Semarlandic stars, Isaac Nketiah, and Serge Mavididi - who both impressed on loan last season - in a $12 million deal. The club can also look forward to the further improvement teen prospects Aya Bernman and Christian Lovenkrands, who both look likely to win more starts this season. In addition to this, players like Colin Donaldson, Alf Seggerson, Lucas D'Araby, and Robert Peszke, provide much needed experience, and could be crucial it deciding the final destination of the SPL title.
We expect United to go for more of a 4-4-2, trying to make the most of the Nketiah and Mavididi partnership up front. Marshalling the wings will likely be 19-year-olds Lovenkrands and Berman, with the rock solid pairing of Donaldson and Seggerson in the centre. Defence, however, is where we expect them to be strongest, with Tameka Ninetyseventh playing along side Nathaniel Bueno-Wells who returns form a loan spell at Granton Vale. Peszke keeps his place at right back despite now being the wrong side of thirty-five, and left back Esteke Inanuk completes the line up. As ever, mister dependable between the sticks is Lucas D'Araby, a player everyone will be glad to see extending his career for another season.
Star Player: Alfred Seggerson | Rising Star: Serge Mavididi (Semarland)
Prediction: 1st. Favourites to lift their first title in five years, but we have been here before with United. Sorensen will be taking nothing for granted here, and he will be aware that they are likely to face stiff competition.
------------------ Port Sebastian Stadium: Dyerton, 30,000 Average attendance: 29,875 Manager: Conner Watts Colours: Light blue, with dark blue shorts Location: Handon Nick name: Porty, or the Steel men
-------------------------
-----------------------
GK Chris Gonzaö 28,
RB Esther Abner 21, LB Paul Doig 23, CB Max Peterson 28, CB Lara Silverstein 20,
CM Jack Baxter 35, CM Emeline Millet 25, AMR Jonathan Bia 21, / Dahamy ML/C Chiyoko Sakuraka 22,
FC Giancoma de Jerusalem 28, ST Demba Traore 21,
---subs---
GK Harry Gould 21, CB Sloane Kirkland 21, CM Milo Mavor 23, FC Kaija Koppel 21, (Schottia)
In. RB Esther Abner 21, < Port Patrick $1M + Player CB Lara Silverstein 20, < Cranequin City. Loan FC Giancoma de Jerusalem 28. < Blades ex Magnaeus Undisc
Out. Paul Coine 31, > Port Patrick Part/Ex Billy Goodwen 33, > Blue Coast 1981
It wasn't that Port Sebastian came out of nowhere last season; it was just that none of us saw it coming. While we were fixated on the battle between Handon United and Cornellians we missed Porty who had been sleeping quietly for a couple of seasons. They were predicted to finish 6th, but powered into an early lead and managed resist everything thrown their way. Getting one over on their arch rivals Handon United is always an added bonus for Porty fans, and their triumph would have been the talk of every bar in the north of the city. Manager Conner Watts isn't resting on his laurels either, and has brought in three players over the summer, all of whom could make a big difference. The club moved heaven and hearth to sign Schottic U-21s right-back Esther Abner, in the end having to part with Paul Coine, as well as a decent sum of money for the 21-year-old. Stalwart defender Billy Goodwen has moved on to join up with former manager Barry Gorman at Blue Coast 1981, and will certainly be a miss. To these ends, Watts has moved to bring in highly rated Nepharim youngster Lara Silverstein on loan from Cranequin City, and the 20-year-old should be more than capable of doing a job at this level. Finally, the side have also snapped up Blades ex Magnaeus' Quebecoise striker Giancoma de Jerusalem, who joins the club for undisclosed fee. With Coine making way, the experienced striker will be in the running to start up front along side top scorer Demba Traore.
In terms of tactics Porty will probably stick with what served them well last season. Schottic cap Chris Gonzaö is a solid all round keeper, and will keep hold of the number one jersey. Centre-back Max Paterson is now the only experienced player in an otherwise very young back line, with Abner and Silverstein joining up with Schottic DBC winner Paul Doig who will keep his place at left back. That extremely effective midfield stays intact from last season, with veteran captain Jack Baxter and Ko-oren international Emeline Millet in the centre. Dahamy born Schottia star Joey Bia will continue to be a force on right wing, and fellow youngster, Kirisakian winger Chiyoko Sakuraka will keep her place on the left. Spearheading the attack alongside de Jerusalem, will be surprise Semarlandic package Traore, who was so crucial to the title win last year; his pace and power helping him to an impressive tally of twenty-six goals.
Star Player: Emeline Millet (Ko-oren) | Rising Star: Joey Bia
Prediction: 3rd. This promises to be an exciting race this season, and Porty will no doubt be a big part of it. They don't have the same depth of squad as United or Cornellians, but in terms of starting elevens, they are every bit as good.
------------------ New Belfast Warriors Stadium: Ashley Road, 22,000 Average attendance: 17,312 Manager: Grant Nean Colours: Green and orange shirt, white shorts Location: New Belfast Nick name: The Whalers ---------------------
--------------------
GK Keith Cumberton 35,
RB Victoria Schute 22, LB Tom Blantan 27, CB Kenny McDermot 29, CB Giordi Dinara 28,
CM Holly Addison 24. CM Tomás Fierro 20, AML Adrienne O'Callahan 22, AMR Craig O'Maramy 25,
CF Ivan Archic 33, ST Jenny Lundergrand 22
---subs---
CF Ian Willson 19,
In. CB Giordi Dinara 28, <Zakhoro Aces free CM Tomás Fierro 20, <Ninon Beart(NSI) $3.5M
Out. James Blantery 33, > Retired Kris Scott 29, > Granton Vale 770K
The Warriors need a massive turn around this season, after two years of substandard performances. They were ridding the crest of a wave after winning the title three years back, but after that they waved goodbye to manager Jane Gullie and things have seemed to be a struggle ever since. Her replacement, Jock Sonny, came highly recommended, and left his post at Cornellians to join with what was then the most exciting team in the country. After some unacceptable performances, Sonny has left to be replaced by U-21s boss Grant Nean, who they will be hoping can re inject some life into the Whalers. There is a lot of excitement surrounding the signing of 20-year-old Cenian internationalist Tomás Fierro, who could be a big player for the future. Fans will be excited to see the youngster, who left the NSI in a $3.5 million deal, join up with the likes of Holly Addison and Craig O'Maramy in midfield. In addition, Nean has brought in centre-back Giordi Dinara from Cosumarite side Zakhoro Aces in a bit to sure up things in defence; a big problem for the side last season.
Other than these two signings, the nucleus of what is essentially a good side has been kept intact. Midfielders Addison and O'Maramy both have international experience, and should be good enough to hold their own against the top players in this division, and adding Fierro to the mix, they will take some beating. The star of this side though, as ever, is team captain Ivan Archic. The Nekulturnyan has been consistently one of the SPLs top scorers for over a decade now, and is one of those irreplaceable players in attack.
Star Player: Ivan Archic (Nekulturnya) | Rising Star: Tomás Fierro (Ceni)
Prediction: 4th. You have to imagine things will get better for the Warriors. They are a side who will be desperate for a first taste of UICA football, and we feel on this occasion they will make it.
------------------ FC Soesch Stadium: Gannon park, 38,000 Average attendance: 25,229 Manager: Gary Stoot Colours: Scarlet and Black stripes Location: Soessch Nick name: Die rote Teufel
-------------------
------------------- GK. Victor Drunnden 36, Nordkrusen
RB Ryan Stoner 31, LB Stav Nattermann 31, CB Robert Wessel 29 CB Chris Okywä 31,
CM Till Ümann 23, AMR Johan Shearer 22, AML Christopher Dickson 25, AMC Konstantin Holstad 28,
SS Melanie Ünterhausen 19 CF Bruno Schwartz 30,
---subs--- RB Mark Walker 28, LB/M Jan Ümann 21, AML Sam Buckley 32, CF Broad Dalehun 22,
In. Ryan Stoner 31, Kingston FC < Undisc Robert Wessel 29, < New Dundee Star 1.9M Melanie Ünterhausen 19, < Loan Arsenal de Releinthi
Out. Nathan McDonald 31, > Port James Athletic 1M DM Gerhart Bitter 27, > New Belfast Blues 600K
FC Soessch were formerly one of the most consistent sides in the league, regular top four finishers, and one of the main contributors in terms of NT squad players. However a disappointing season, which saw them finish eighth, has meant the club have parted company with manager Jurgen Peters after eight years in charge. His replacement Gary Stood masterminded New Dundee Star's Championship win in Port Christopher two years ago, and he has come in looking to freshen the side up. Out go two former stalwarts of the side, Nathan McDonald and Gerhart Bitter, with the manager bringing in Robert Wessel, Ryan Stoner, and Melanie Ünterhausen as he tries to build his own squad. Wessel moves with the manager from New Dundee in a $1.9 million deal, and he will hope the 29-year-old can help sure up the defence along side Schottic international Chris Okywä. Stoner is an good right-back with bags of experience for Quebecoise side Kingston, and Mel Ünterhausen joins her childhood heroes on a season long loan from Fleftic club Arsenal de Releinthi.
Stoot has shown signs of moving towards a 4-4-2 formation, still the most popular in Schottia by some distance. We can only guess that Ünterhausen was signed as a starter probably to accompany Bruno Schwartz in attack, and they will go with a midfield four of Shearer, Dickson, Ümann, and Holstad, with Holstad the probably deployed in a more advanced role. The Polar Islander is the man who makes this team tick, and his set-pieces have been an important source of goals for the club.
Star Player: Konstantin Holstad (Polar Islandstates) | Rising Star: Johan Shearer (Nephara)
Prediction: 6th. We are predicting that a new management style will help rekindle this side prospects, and they will slowly start to move back up the table. Much will depend on the impact younger players such as Ünterhausen and Shearer can make.
------------------ King's Park Stadium: Lochely Green, 14,000 Average attendance: 12,140 Manager: Eric Desmond (player-manager) Colours: Navy Blue shirt, white shorts. Location: Handon Nick name: The Royals ------------------
------------------
GK Cliff Smith 32,
RB Jack Gordon 33, LB Deigo Marr 30, CB Peter Gaunt 28, CB Richard Dachs 22,
CM Erin Braden 22, CM Sendoa 18, RM Corvid Alemane 21, AML Darren O'Brian 27,
CF Francis Keelinan 26, CF Estelle Conway 19,
---subs---
CM Jake Halls 28,
In. ACM Sendoa 18, . < Myrmdon 2.5M RM Corvid Alemane 21, < Creed United Loan
Out. FC Alan Doolan 31, > Hollin $900K
After going through a difficult period, Handon's 'small team' seem to be back among the big boys in the SPL, as consecutive 2nd, and 5th place finishes prove. The Royals have never been the kind of side to splash out wildly in the transfer window - mostly because they don't have the finances - so the signing of Sendoa for 2.5 million is something of a club record. The 18-year-old made an impact in the Cenian league last season, and manager Eric Desmond will be hoping he can continue to improve here. The teenager will start alongside up and coming star Erin Braden, who has been in impressive form since joining form WSL side, West Belker Picts. In addition to this, the loan signing of Corvid Alemane looks like it might be an important one, and by all accounts she had the potential to stand out at this level. They join a team, which boasts the likes of Darren O'Brian, Francis Keelinan, and Jack Gordon, all of whom have Schottic caps to their names. The club have also parted company with veteran striker Alan Doolan, who leaves to join up with Hollin after ten years with the club. Doolan makes way for rising star Estelle Conway, a player who really stood out in the reserves last season.
Star Player: Darren O'Brian | Rising Star: Estelle Conway
Prediction: 7th. Although Kings Park may seem to be slipping backwards, it is more a result of the teams around them improving as opposed to their own decline. That said, they have surprised us all before, and if some of their new recruits can make in impact then you never know.
------------------ La Gorlions Stadium: Danu Parc, 16,000 Average attendance: 12,554 Manager: Pascal Voitle Colours: White and yellow shirt, white shorts. Location: La Gorla Nick name: The Lions Club sponsor: Burgunden Breuerie ------------------
------------------ GK Jimmy Hook 34, Fenbar
RB Christy Snell 23, LB Juan Velente 19, CB Markus Pfab 25, CB Vinod Purteer 25,
CM Fredrick Houben 26, CM Jade Irwin 20, AMR Frank Samules 26, LF Billy Small 29,
SS Jago Avelione 34, CF Davy Ellan 31,
In. CM Jade Irwin 20, <Crisisbless United free
La Gorlions have made a name for themselves for two reasons; being hard to beat, and having a great home record. A lot of their success can probably be attributed to their home stadium Danu Parc, nestled in the North Mountains, it is the highest altitude venue in the SPL. Eleven round pegs in eleven round holes sums this team up, with tough, no nonsense players like Jago Avelione, and Cosumarite midfielder Fredrick Houban, they take a lot of beating. Inconsistency seems to have been the thing that cost Jade Irwin a senior contract with Crissisbless United, but The Lions will be hoping that she can make an impact her in the SPL. Manager Pascal Voitle has a good track record with bringing in players with a point to prove, and it's true that the family atmosphere at Danu Parc can be something of rehabilitation centre young players. If he is able to work his magic with this Nepharim lass, then they could have found themselves a very good player.
Prediction: 9th. It is going to be hard for The Lions who have no way of competing on recourses, but they are definitely a top half side, and last season's 11th place was a flash in the pan.
------------------ Marionville Stadium: Allen Dixon Arena, 25,000 Average attendance: 18,611 Manager: Basil Bunton Colours: Grey and Black shirt and shorts Location: Marionville Nick name: The Old boys ------------------
----------------- GK Pearce Brice 30,
RB Oliver Scott 21, LB Jonas Pedersen 29 CB David Daller 28, DC Artjom Järvinen 28, (Schottia)
CM Jonny Birch 20, CM Barry Stewart 29, AMR Jarred Clotterman 21, RLM. Larry Goodman 21, ACM Vojnomir Nikolic 19,
CF Michael Maxwell 24,
---subs--- CM Scott Lewis 28,
In. LB Jonas Pedersen 29 <Kangemark Sport free
Star Player: Barry Stewart | Rising Star: Vojnomir Nikolic (Pasagra)
The Old Boys, it seems, are destined to forever be knocking on the door, never quite doing enough to be recognised as a top five/six side. There is a feeling however, that this might be as good a time as any to bring some success to the canal-ways of Marionville, if their young side can step up to the plate. Captain David Daller at centre-back, and star midfielder Barry Stewart form a strong backbone to this side, and the club will be happy to have warded off interest in the latter. Around Daller and Stewart, is a team of talented young players, including Pasargan attacker Vojnomir Nikolic, and former Cornellians winger Larry Goodman. The club have also pulled off a potential bargain, bringing in Jonas Pedersen on a free transfer, who was unlucky to be released after helping his club the LigAnaia R49 title last season. Other players to watch include keeper Pearce Brice, and academy graduate Jonny Birch.
Prediction: 8th. Marionville will be somewhere in that mêlée, for fourth spot. It remains to be seen if they can be the ones to prise the final UICA spot from Lammerton who have finished there two years running.
------------------ Port Patrick Stadium: Galloway Lane, 18,000 Average attendance: 12,673 Manager: Des Pleent Colours: White shirt and shorts, with dark green trim Location: Handon Nick name: The Breakers ------------------
------------------ GK, Gary MacMillan 31,
RB, Markus Brent 32, LB, Robert Torry 25, CB Davy Keates 26, CB Jake Dooner 34,
AMC Tanya Yeats 22, CM Kevin Morton 32, RM Willie McIntyre 31, AML, Cerys Kennicot 23,
CF Jane Swanson 26, CF Paul Coine 32,
---subs--- CM Ross Skinner 29, CM Ruth Finch 18,
In. FC Paul Coine 32 < Port Sebastian Part EX. RB Markus Brent 32 < Crissisbelss United free AMC Tanya Yeats 22, . < North Hall loan Out. CF Heron Crew 23 , > Cednia Beach. Turori $5M
RB, Esther Abner 20, > Port Sebastian $1M + Player
Port Patrick took all of us by surprise when they stormed the league on their first year back in the top flight, finishing 6th. Every time we thought they were going to fade off, they would pull another result out of the bag, beating some of the league's biggest sides. With some of their top home-grown talent obviously catching the eye of rival clubs, there was the predictable exodus over the summer leaving the squad a little depleted. Top scorer Heron Crew, who has been making the headlines with his performances for Schottia, has left to join Cednia Beach in a $5 million switch. The club also lost the services of their most marketable player, when right-back Esther Abner signed for champions Port Sebastian. Manager Des Pleent has had some flexibility in terms of who has been able to bring in, and he normally has a good eye for a signing. Striker Paul Coine is a player who needs little introduction, and the Schottia internationalist arrives in part exchange for Esther Abner. New wingback Markus Brent, definitely has the ability to improve the side, and where he doesn’t represent the same potential as Abner, he is an experienced pro who has played in one of the world's top leagues. Finally, they will be hoping that Brenecian Loanee Tanya Yeats will integrate well in the midfield, bringing some of that A-League directness to the team. In a way, The Breakers' best bit of business was keeping hold of Cerys Kennicot, after the dynamic winger made a huge impact last season, and will possibly be even more important this time round.
Star Player: Cerys Kennicot | Rising Star: Ruth Finch
Prediction: 10th. They say the second season is always the hardest, and the Breakers will be hoping to avoid the sophomore slump. Although some of the new recruits may prove up to the task, it still remains to be seen how they can cope without Heron Crew's goals.
------------------ Lammerton Stadium: Lammerton City Ground, 24,000 Average attendance: 23,688 Manager: John Sedder Colours: Yellow and Black shirt, black shorts Location: Lammerton Nick name: The Hornets ------------------
CM Timo Düd 27, CM Arron Marcie 31, CM Robard Horvat 19, OM Mars Alexandersson 20,
CF Merry Osbourne 29, CF John Cooper 28,
---subs--- CM Jeff Vance 33,
CF Nathan Clark 25,
In. ST Merry Osbourne 29, < Kingsgrove $3.5 CM Robard Horvat 19, < Tamarskand Fief University. free Out. RF John McCormack 21, > Centralis Hearts Electrum $4
Lammerton probably need to be taken seriously now, with back-to-back fourth place finishes. They may have lost the highly rated John McCormack in the transfer window, but with the likes of Mars Alexandersson and John Cooper, they will still pack a punch. The side have brought in Brenecian striker Merry Osbourne as a replacement for the Electrum bound McCormack, so that should help to temper the loss slightly. Also Cosumarite teenager Robert Horvat will add a different element to the midfield, slotting in alongside the already impressive Timo Düd and Arron Marcie. On the face of it there is no reason to suggest that The Hornets will be anything other than title challengers again this season, and that may well turn out to be the case. Tactically, what Lammerton do is simple but it works. Alexandersson is a player with the skill to pick out the crucial passes in the final third, and with two good centre-forwards on the park, it brings goals.
Star Player: John Cooper Rising Star: Mars Alexandersson (Unified Sunrise islands)
Prediction: 5th. We think Lammerton will finish fifth this season, more than likely slipping behind a resurgent New Belfast Warriors.
Posted: Mon Mar 07, 2016 7:59 am
by Schottia
-Part Two-
------------------ Port James Athletic Stadium: City of Port James Stadium, 32,000 Average attendance: 26,471 Manager: Karla Blackett Colours: Purple shirt and shorts. Location: Port James Nick name: The Seasiders ------------------
------------------ GK Jack Ruver 31,
RB Carl Mujica 23, Audioslavia LB Jim Tanner 29, CB Nathan McDonald 31, CB Tomoaki Neyama 22,
CM Willie Erskin 28, CM Palle Ellsmere 22, AMR Joseph Preca 26, Eusebian Islands AML Ismal Keirut 24,
CF Dahrla Bhosz 31, CF Remaine Clarke 22, ---subs--- CM Alan Pertson 23,
In. Nathan McDonald 31, < FC Soessch 1M CM Palle Ellsmere 22, < Hollin 1M
Port James are going through something of a difficult transition at the moment. Traditionally one of the country's biggest clubs, they are far more used to challenging at the top on the table as opposed to languishing in the bottom half. Despite having a bigger budget than many of the other mid table sides, making headway has been difficult. The players they have brought it, while looking good on paper have simply failed to deliver on the pitch, and in Karla Blackett's second season in charge she has spent big once again, in bid to stop the rot. Talented midfielder Palle Ellsmere joins form Hollin in a $1 million move, after the Polaaskan impressed with his old club. And former Schottia internationalist Nathan McDonald makes the switch from FC Soessch for a similar fee.
Often Port James have been too reliant on captain Joseph Preca, and it seems that the Ellsmere move might be a bid to relieve the pressure on the Eusebian Islander. Elsewhere, the strike force of Dahrla Bhosz, and Remaine Clarke looks solid enough, and former Cornellians winger Ismal Keirut is a strong creative force going forward.
Star Player: Joseph Preca (Eusebian Islands (Ossoria)) | Rising Star: Remaine Clarke (Semarland)
Prediction: 12th. Unfortunately, it's hard to see where the improvement is going to come from, and the once proud club are in danger of sinking into serious decline.
------------------ D'Itille Stadium: Belvour parc, 7,000 Average attendance: 4,269 Manager: Liam Seawel Colours: Green and white shirt, white shorts Location: Annacey Nick name: Annacien ------------------
------------------ GK Gary Thornly 36,
RB Ellian Larraux 29, LB Luke Corsby 23, CB Duncan Harris 30, CB Marius Pujuneb 27,
DM John Scooner 30, CM Abbus Atamei 27, MR Dardan Baris 21, ML Ewan Swain 28,
CF Callum Frir 27, CF Lucas Yashvil 25,
---subs--- CM Bruce Kewt 30,
In. DM John Scooner 30, < Blue Coast 1981 $0.5M
The vivid lime green of D'Itille has been an ever-present sight on the SPL pitches for a few years now despite being one of the top flight's smaller clubs. The club, who are largely made up of home grown players from a tight knit community, have always managed to hit above their weight. This season they have completed the signing of John Scooner from Blue Coast 1981, no doubt with some of the transfer money from the L'Attue sale last season.
The club have always played an exciting brand of football, and long serving manager Liam Seawell keeps things very tight. While no one is expecting a title challenge from this side, there are few who will be worried about them going down.
Star Player: Callum Frir | Rising Star: Dardan Baris
Prediction: 15th. Somewhere in the lower half of the table, but they should be safe enough from the drop.
------------------ New Belfast Blues Stadium: Straks Park, 15,000 Average attendance: 11,000 Manager: Nail Leeten Colours: Blue and white shirt, white shorts Location: New Belfast Nick name: The Blues ------------------
------------------
GK Jim Black 23,
RB Nicolas Slone 30, LB Louise Marshall 24, CB Ross Hardcoart 29, CB Peter Jnist 29,
CM Aleksander Heino-Watanabe 18, CM Gerhart Bitter 27, MR Sam Saxon 22, ML James Trusen 28,
CF David Millar 29, CF Shu 19,
---subs---
CF Chris Strivin 30,
In. Gerhart Bitter 27, < Soessch 600K
Always the poorer relation in the city of New Belfast, and the Warriors have always tapped into a lot of the Blues' potential fan-base. They are another one of those clubs who have very little to play for - they aren't really in much danger of going down, but they are never going to be able to put together enough for a charge on the UICA places. This year they have picked up former Soessch midfielder Gerhart Bitter, and there is no doubt that he has the ability to improve the side. They also have a couple of half decent players in the form of keeper Jim Black, and also strikers Shu and David Millar. On top of that Aleksander Heino-Watanabe is a midfielder with the ability to really develop into a good player, and at 18, he is one to watch.
Star Player: David Millar | Rising Star: Aleksander Heino-Watanabe
Prediction: 13th. They are going to be somewhere around the middle of the bottom half. Probably closer to 10th than 20th at the end of the day.
------------------ Granton Vale Stadium: Sea Park, 13,000 Average attendance: 8,469 Manager: Dan Brown Colours: Grey shirt, grey shorts. Location: Granton Nick name: The Beachcombers ------------------
------------------
GK. Krista Till 21,
RB John Steel 33, LB Dave Cranshaws 28, CB Duncan Johnson 35, CB Norman Norkin 22
RM Will Rybka 27, L/CM Scott Cooper 28, CM Kris Scott 29, CM Tommy Wilson 32, ACM Alan Groom 29,
CF Jack Hobbs 20,
---subs---
LM Anna White 20,
In. Kris Scott 29, < New Belfast Warriors 770K
With the problem promoted clubs seem to have in staying in the premier league, it is a testament to Granton Vale, that they have managed it now for two years running. They are another one of those nitty-gritty sides, made up of a lot of hard working players, coming together to get the job done. This season they completed a club record signing of former Lammerton and Warriors midfielder Kris Scott, who has previously been capped for Schottia. Scott Cooper back at the club for a second spell after spending time with Cornellians in the MPL and New Belfast Warriors, it the side's main creative outlet and on his day is a quality winger. The club also have a couple of promising youngsters at either end of the pitch, with 95X keeper Krista Till, and Schottic U-21 striker Jack Hobbs up front.
Star Player: Kris Scott | Rising Star: Jack Hobbs
Prediction: 14th. Hard one to predict as we start to get down amongst the sides with the smaller budgets. They definitely could have a good season, but they are likely to be watching their backs for the most part.
------------------ Lammerton City Stadium: Lammerton City Ground, 24,000 Average attendance: 3,378 Manager: Rodger Green Colours: White shirt with blue trim, blue shorts Location: Lammerton Nick name: The Princes, or City ------------------
------------------
GK Arnan Yulcic 27,
RB Thomas Carmichael 27, LB Brock Fuller 30, CB Gordon Centon 27, CB Christopher Bishop 20,
CM Kyle Ingles 29, CM Karen Seywel 27, CM Matt Skea 34,
Things seem to be getting tougher for Lammerton City, as their rivals, The Hornets, pull further away. The two sides share the same stadium, although only one of them ever comes close to filling it. City put in battling performances week in week out, and for a team with a smaller attendance than many sides in the regional divisions, that's an important thing. They have a couple of good players in captain Karen Seywel and Shalumite defender Thomas Carmichael, but it's not always enough to get them over the line. This season they have enlisted the services of WSL top scorer Flora Klee from their sister club, and if she is somehow able to replicate her scoring form then it may well save The Princes.
Star Player: Karen Seywel | Rising Star: Flora Klee
Prediction: 19th. This is going to be the year that Lammerton City let it slip after fifteen years in Schottia's top flight.
------------------ Hollin Stadium: Belker Stadium, 10,600 Average attendance: 10,139 Manager: Jack Hosker Colours: Red, white and blue Location: Linellie Nick name: The Belker boys ------------------
------------------ GK Varry Coen 26,
RB Derek Loya 27, LB Robert Morris 28, CB Dan Yarrow 35, CB Baxter James 32,
CM Neil Brown 20, CM Stephen McAlly 31, AMR Chris Jack 26, AML Alistair Carlyle 28,
CF Fred Dawson 23, CF Alan Doolan 31,
---sub--- CF Beet Timons 28,
In. CF Alan Doolan 31, < Kings Park 900K
Out. CM Palle Ellsmere 21, >Port James Athletic 1M
Hollin, with their passionate supporters, are the beating heart of the Belker region of Schottia. In the past they have done surprisingly well, and regularly have forays into the top seven or eight. All the way through, their side looks like it means business, from keeper Varry Coen, to Robert Morris in defence, Schottic cap Chris Jack, and new signing Alan Doolan up front. It will probably be the case, once again, that their passionate supporters drag them over the finish line, and they will no doubt have a good go at a top half finish.
Star Player: Chris Jack | Rising Star: Neil Brown
Prediction: 11th. Hollin will be somewhere between 9th and 12th, right in the middle of the table.
------------------ Berwick United Stadium: Gauld Park, 15,000 Average attendance: 5,466 Manager: Alan Cross Colours: Dark Blue and white Location: South Berwick Nick name: The Seaguls ------------------
------------------
GK Joe Mullens 32,
RB Tom Martin 27, LB John Kettle 25, CB Glen Gordon 23, CB Millie Feltman 26,
CM Jonny McDonald 29, CM Scott Vincent 24, AMR Jack Glover 26, AML Justyna Eriksson 22,
CF John Boyde 27, CF Brian Graham 25,
In. Justyna Eriksson 22, <RDS:D free
Berwick United will get a second bite at the cherry, as the yo-yoing effect around promotion and relegation in Schottia continues. They made pretty light work of the Regional Division D, but looking at their squad, it's hard to see where the quality is going to come from. The signing of Eriksson from the academy set up should bring some creativity to the starting line up, but they will need to be better than that if they want make an impact back in the top-flight.
Star Player: Johnny McDonald | Rising star: Justyna Eriksson
Prediction: 19th. Frustrating, but you can't really see how they have any chance of staying up, a long hard season ahead.
-------------------------- Dundee Stadium: Granier Road Park, 11,000 Average attendance: 6,547 Manager: Jock Sonny Colours: Navy blue shirt, white shorts Location: Dundee Nick name: The Panners ----------------------------------
--------------------------------- GK Johnny Smith 35,
RB James Berkeley 28, Darvale LB Liam Goncalves 16, CB Kevin Scougle 23, CB Keith Paul 29,
CM Vera Cummings 21, CM Gustav Fandrich 27, AMR Barry Drite 24, AML Aaron Good 32,
CF Jacques 21, CF Davy Galmore 26,
In. Jacques 21, <Christopheran Porty 300K Gustav Fandrich 27, < South Rathia free
No one really expected Dundee to go down two years ago, so it wouldn't have come as much of a surprise to see them bounce straight back up. They actually finished second in their Regional Division, behind RDS:A, but the academy outfit were ineligible for promotion. We are now expecting a decent showing from The Panners especially since former manager Nick Rossy stood down, being replaced by Jock Sonny. They have all the makings of a decent side, with top Port Christopher prospect Liam Gonclaves - team captain, Darvale's James Berkeley - and former Handon United defender Kevin Scougle. Sonny has also brought in Jacques from Christopheran Porty, and he is definitely a young striker who can excite the fans. Another new addition is Nepharim midfielder Gustav Fandrich, who was a bit of a flop in the A-League last season, and will be coming into the SPL with a point to prove.
Star Player: James Berkeley (Darvale) | Rising Star: Liam Gonclaves (Port Christopher
Prediction: 16th. But who knows, maybe they will do a lot better than that. A lot of this depends on how their new recruits can adapt to the SPL.
------------------ Döllar Stadium: Nachtsparkstadium, 8,400 Average attendance: 2,598 Manager: Janus Gootla Colours: Red shirt, red shorts Location: Stalker Bay Nick name: Die Rotten --------------------
--------------------
GK Gunter Gotelmann 25,
RB Frank Jones 23, LB Eliot Camp 28, CB Marcel Smith-Hammond 26, CB James Polmoth 28,
DM Fritz Holtz 29, CM Kurt Hierholzer 19, CM Karl Gie 29, AM Annie Robertson 22,
CF Joe Vullermann 27, CF Peter Hans Goulbre 24,
In. DC Marcel Smith-Hammond 26 , Unattached Out. Mark Ünterhausen 17, > Jansberg Semerland $2.5M
Döllar probably surprised a few in the Schottic media with a spirited performance, which helped them to promotion last season. The biggest factor in that promotion charge was the impact of defender Mark Ünterhausen, who won rave reviews with some composed performances far beyond his tender age. Predictably, the club were a victim of his success, and they will have to cope without the defender who makes his way to FC Jansberg in Semarland. It will be interesting to see how Döllar are able to handle the pressures of the SPL this season, 16th place - and survival - will be their target.
Star Player: Marcel Smith-Hammond (Semarland) | Rising Star: Kurt Hierholzer
Prediction: 18th. It is going to take a lot for them to claw their way out of the hole they are likely to find themselves it. Their home form is going to be crucial.
------------------ Oakpark Celtic Stadium: Kelnis Road Stadium, 7,000 Average attendance: 4,301 Manager: Darren Clancey Colours: White gold and green shirt, white shorts Location: Glemin Nick name: The Ossies ------------------
------------------
GK Seamus O'Shea 31, Schottia
RB Billy O'Riar 26, Schottia LB Jack Persil 32, Schottia CB Han Clancy 33, Schottia CB Nicky Ginnly 36, Schottia
CM Cormack Coull 30, Schottia CM Clemant Scooner 31, Schottia MR Jonny Fox 26, Schottia ML Swithen Smanter 28, Schottia
CF Danko Ninis 29, Schottia CF Rhurie Long 24, Schottia
Oakpark Celtic are the other professional side from the Belker region of Schottia, and with Hollin, they make up one of the fiercest derbies in the country. They had a good season last year winning out in the Regional Division B to the disappointment of many, out-gunning Mucusia, a side who play much more attractive football. There are probably already a few bets being placed, predicting Celtic to finish bottom of the league. They lack any real out and out star, and it is very difficult to see how their tactics are going to help them get anything out of the matches with the top sides.
Star Player: Cormack Coull | Rising Star: Rhurie Long
Prediction: 20th. Even the most optimistic fans will find it hard to believe anything else is possible.
Posted: Mon Mar 14, 2016 12:19 am
by Schottia
Matchday one - twelve
Champions Cup -- Prelim Round
Port Sebastian 1–2 Real Azuris (COS)
There was really no way to paint a favourable gloss on this one. Although the Cosumarite side with certainly no fools, Port Sebastian would have really expected better at home, and with a daunting trip to Azuris to follow, Porty's Champions' Cup hopes were left dangling by a thread before they even got off the ground. A late goal from Guaybalese striker, Sean Frazer (a young chap with a suspiciously Schottic sounding surname) cancelled out Giancoma de Jerusalem equaliser to give the visitors a strong lead going into the next leg.
Globe Cup -- Prelim Round
Cornellians 3–0 Everfree Forest HC (ESQ) Lammerton 1-1 AC Holmenkollen (COS)
Following on from the disappointment in the Champions' Cup, Schottia's Globe Cup hopefuls helped to lift some on the country's UICA gloom. Cornellians looked very comfortable at home, defeating Everfree Forest HC of The Equestrian States, 3-0 thanks to goals from Eloisa Purinton (2) and Kathryn Kvanderwyk. Lammerton managed to put on a brave show also, holding on to a 1-1 draw with a dangerous looking AC Holmenkollen, Mars Alexandersson grabbing the goal for the Hornets.
SPL D'Itille 3–1 Kings Park Lammerton City 0–1 Marionville Granton Vale 1–0 FC Döllar Lammerton 3–0 FC Soessch Berwick United 3–2 Hollin Port Sebastian 5–2 Port James Athletic La Gorlions 2–1 Cornellians Port Patrick United 2–0 New Belfast Blues New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Oak Park Celtic Dundee 0–0 Handon United
Champions Port Sebastian got us off and running in the lunchtime kick off, taking on last season's strugglers Athletic. There were no surprises in store at the Dryerton Stadium, as Porty ran out deserved winners. Giancoma de Jerusalem opened the scoring on her debut, as the Quebecois striker was quick of the mark to rattle home a Jack Baxter pass. Kirisakian Chiyoko Sakuraka added a second shortly after, and second half goals from Joey Bia, and Demba Traore (2), meant the reigning champs ran out deserved winners. Although Athletic scored twice, courtesy of Dahrla Bhosz, and Willie Erskin, they were never really in the game. We were definitely thrown a few curve balls in the opening round of fixtures, none more so than Handon United's 0-0 draw at newly promoted Dundee. The Panners actually looked very good in this match, and there were points where you would have struggled to tell which side were the title favourites. Young Liam Goncalves picked up where he left of with Port Christopher; and Gustav Fandrich, who joined Dundee on a free from South Rathia, looked as if he could prove to be a shrewd signing for Jock Sonny. In a similar match, Cornellians never really got going against La Gorlions, as the 2019 champions became the latest side to slip up in the North Island mountains. Cosumarite teenager Kathryn Kvanderwyk opened the scoring for The Eagles after only 20 mins, latching onto a Eula Richard cross, but it wasn't enough. The never say die Lions battled hard and pulled level after the break thanks to a Davy Ellan header. Then five minutes from time, debutant midfielder Jade Irvin played a delightful pass through to winger Billy Small who fired home from the tightest of angles. Elsewhere there was no honeymoon period for Gary Stood, as FC Soessch were left feeling The Hornets' sting; new signing Merry Osbourne was among the goals as Lammerton coasted to a convincing 3-0 win. And a Callum Frir scored twice as D'Itille recorded an excellent 3-1 win over King Park.
Champions Cup -- Prelim Round
(COS) Real Azuris 1 - 0 Port Sebastian
Sean Frazer popped up to sting Port Sebastian once again in the return fixture in Cosumar. The Schottic Champions tried to dig deep, but they were always half a pace behind their opponents.
Globe Cup -- Prelim Round
(ESQ) Everfree Forest HC 1-0 Cornellians (COS) AC Holmenkollen 4-1 Lammerton
After the excitement of last week there was little to cheer about as the Schottic clubs took to the road. The likes of Funanya Nwapa and Adnan Valerikssen were just too strong for the Lammerton at Cedar Road, and although Robard Hovart scored against his countrymen, the side from Ramusok Fief were simply too much for the Hornets. Elsewhere Cornellians went safely through, despite going down 1-0 in The Equestrian States.
SPL Kings Park 1–0 Handon United Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Dundee New Belfast Blues 2–2 New Belfast Warriors Cornellians 3–2 Port Patrick United Port James Athletic 0–2 La Gorlions Hollin 1–0 Port Sebastian FC Soessch 0–1 Berwick United FC Döllar 0–0 Lammerton Marionville 1–0 Granton Vale D'Itille 0–0 Lammerton City
Not exactly the start that Handon United were looking for as another goalless performance saw them go down 1-0 at Kings Park. Upcoming UICA commitments perhaps got to United, as despite dominating for 90 minutes, they looked tired and lacked bite. New signing Sendoa and Corvid Alemane looked much more settled in this game, as The Royals proved they could cope well defensively. Francis Keelinan stole the three points, ten minutes from time, with a well taken free-kick to get his account up and running. Despite their frustrations last week, Cornellians moved on with a 3-2 win over the hard to beat Breakers. Tsumugi Narita's cross field pass left Jedorian midfielder Cosumin Dobrescu with the easiest of finishes for his side's first, before goals from Paul Coine and Willy McIntyre gave the visitors a surprise lead. Eloisa Purinton, pulled The Eagles level after 45 mins, and a long range effort from Kathryn Kvanderwyk restored their lead much to the relief of manager Alexander Pearce. Both Dundee and La Gorlions followed up their strong opening week performances with wins over Oak Park and Athletic respectively. Jacques scored his first goal for Dundee just before the break, and Fredrick Houben and Jago Avelione were on the mark for The Lions. Elsewhere there was continued disappointment for FC Soessch, and The Warriors, as both sides seem to be struggling to get their seasons up and running.
Globe Cup -- Play-off Round
Cornellians 0–2 Cednia Beach AFC (TUR) (STB) Iskara Daii 2–4 Port Sebastian (PAS) Club Stein-los 0–1 Handon United
The play-off round brought some tough fixtures for the Schottic clubs, and in the case of Cornellians, they were reunited with a familiar foe in the form of Heron Crew. The big Schottic internationalist, earned a move to Cednia Beach in Turori, after an outstanding season with Port Patrick United. In the end The Eagles were second best, going down 1-0 to the visitors. After their Champions' Cup exit, Port Sebastian restored some much needed pride with a 4-2 win away to Starblaydian side Iskara Daii. Demba Traore looked like a different player, as he scored a first half double in a tense opening 45. In the second half, goals from Joey Bia, and Giancoma de Jerusalem gave Porty a resounding victory. In this round Handon United entered the fray, and Schottia's most successful side ever, got their first taste of UICA football. Carl Sorensen's boys and girls put in a good shift against Pasargan side, Club Stein-los, Serge Mavididi sliding in to prod home an Aya Bernman cross ten minutes from time, to give his side a precious away win.
SPL Lammerton City 0–1 Kings Park Granton Vale 3–3 D'Itille Lammerton 3–2 Marionville Berwick United 0–4 FC Döllar Port Sebastian 3–2 FC Soessch La Gorlions 0–1 Hollin Port Patrick United 2–1 Port James Athletic New Belfast Warriors 2–3 Cornellians Dundee 1–0 New Belfast Blues Handon United 2–1 Oak Park Celtic
All eyes this week were on an enthralling encounter, as The Warriors played host to Cornellians. Despite going two goals up inside twenty minutes, the Eagles were pegged back, as Adrienne O'Callahan and Ivan Archic found the net for Grant Nean's side. Cornellians left it late once again, this time it was Daniel Sturridge who got the all important goal, after Triffid Ramsey's surging run to the by-line stet up the chance with only five minutes left on the clock. Lammerton beat Marionville by a similar score line, an impressive win given the Old Boys' start to the season. Mars Alexandersson was at her very best, scoring one and setting up one as the Hornets staked their claim for a UICA spot for a third year running. John Cooper and Brecianan Merry Osbourne also netted for home side, with their goals enough to overturn an impressive double from Pasagran teenager Vojnomir Nikolic. Handon United finally got off the mark this week too, but they were made to work for it against an Oak Park side who set up for a 0-0 draw from kick-off. This game hung in the balance for much of the ninety minutes, but it was United's superior firepower, which saw them through. Isaac Nketiah netted first with a clever dink-shot from the angel of the box, before Christian Lovenkrands slid the ball through to veteran midfielder Colin Donaldson to round things off. In other news, despite goals from Melanie Ünterhaisen, and Johan Shearer, Soessch continued to struggle, losing 3-2 to champions Port Sebastian. Dundee continued their impressive start as Vera Cummings goal gave them a win over NBB. And Port Patrick recorded a comfortable home win over Athltic, Cerys Kennicot and Jane Swanson getting the goals.
Globe Cup -- Play-off Round
(TUR) Cednia Beach AFC 3-1 Cornellians Port Sebastian 3-0 Iskara Daii (STB) Handon United 6-0 Club Stein-los (PAS)
In the return leg in Turori, a lacklustre Cornellians were definitely second best, losing 3-1 to Cednia Beach. Despite a goal from new Nepharim signing Casey Brind, the Eagles never really got going on the night. Port Sebastian closed out an excellent performance against Iskara Daii, defeating the Starblaydian champions 3-0 in Handon. Ko-oren cap, Emiline Millet scored the opener, and their were second half goals form Lara Silverstein and Chiyoko Sakuraka, as they closed out a resounding win. That result could only be eclipsed by Handon United's 6-0 win at home to Club Stein-los. The Pasagran side were sent home with their tails between their legs as Isaac Nketiah (2), Serge Mavididi, Nik Konstidious, Christian Lovenkrands and Alfred Seggerson all scored for United.
SPL Kings Park 3–1 Oak Park Celtic New Belfast Blues 0–2 Handon United Cornellians 5–0 Dundee Port James Athletic 1–0 New Belfast Warriors Hollin 1–2 Port Patrick United FC Soessch 0–0 La Gorlions FC Döllar 0–2 Port Sebastian Marionville 5–0 Berwick United D'Itille 1–1 Lammerton Lammerton City 0–1 Granton Vale
Considering the start Jock Sonny's Dundee have made to life back in the SPL it should be seen as a real statement of intent that Cornellains hit five for no reply this week. The Eagles, looked deadly in front of goal, with Purinton and Kvanderwyk right in the thick of it. The game would have been a rude awakening for The Panners, as the opposition's central midfield trio of Brind, Richard, and Narita simply passed them off the park. Marionville won by the same margin against newly prompted Berwick United, as the Old Boys continue to make a lot of the early running. Nikolic scored twice for the second week running, as he and fellow midfielders Barry Stewart and Jonny Birch ran the show. Port Sebastian also look like they are starting to throw a few results together, Demba Traore, and Emilne Millet were on target as they brushed past a substandard Döllar side. Their big city rivals United managed likewise, as Serge Mavididi double saw them comfortably past NBB. There was also a comfortable win for Kings Park this week, Corvid Alemane slamming home her first goal of the campaign in a 3-1 win over Oak Park Celtic, who already look like they are sinking fast. Finally, it seems that Soessch can't win for love nor money, as La Gorlions did what they do best frustrating them at every turn the clash between the two big North Island sides.
Globe Cup -- Play-Off Round
(BRE) Rozelle 1–1 Handon United (SEM) Krsthaven 1–2 Port Sebastian
There were a couple of outstanding results midweek, for Schottic sides in the UICA, which will have no doubt raised a few eyebrows. Handon United got the ball rolling with a fantastic 1-1 draw in Brenecia against Rozelle. It was a very tricky opening period for United with their higher ranked opposition looking solid in the centre of the park, and this superior possession told when Adelaide Swain smacked a long ball into the path of Kurtis Volker. The striker was then able to take his time in sliding the ball past Lucas D'Araby in the United goals. Whatever Handon United lacked in some departments, they made up for with pace in the wide areas, and it would come as no surprise that the equaliser resulted from one such move. Aya Bernman, hitting the Saints on the counter, managed to a low cross for Serge Mavididi to prod the ball home. Champions Port Sebastion faired even better, picking up a 2-1 at Krsthaven, a hard place to go and get points. In what was another hotly contested match, Porty managed to get the upper hand with goals from Kirisakian winger Chiyoko Sakuraka, and Semar Demba Traore, who popped up to sting his countrymen.
SPL Granton Vale 1–4 Kings Park Lammerton 1–0 Lammerton City Berwick United 1–3 D'Itille Port Sebastian 2–1 Marionville La Gorlions 1–1 FC Döllar Port Patrick United 6–3 FC Soessch New Belfast Warriors 1–1 Hollin Dundee 0–1 Port James Athletic Handon United 0–0 Cornellians Oak Park Celtic 0–2 New Belfast Blues
There was a big question mark over how Port Patrick would perform this season without Heron Crew, after the big striker left for the shores of Turori. They will have gone some way towards answering their critics with this 6-3 win, which heaps even more misery on poor FC Soessch. Die rote Teufel actually took the lead in this game twice in the first half, with goals from Melanie Ünterhausen, and Konstantin Holstad, but The Breakers were simply outstanding in the second half. Cerys Kennicot scored twice, as did Paul Coine in a game they never looked like losing. With this kind of firepower in their ranks, they have every chance of repeating their 6th place finish of last year. Kings Park followed up their strong win last week with a comprehensive 4-1 thrashing of Granton Vale. The young side played some strong attacking football, and took the game to The Beachcombers for long periods, with goals from Sendoa, Estelle Conway (2), and Francis Keelinan. The match this week, which promised so much was the meeting of Handon United and Cornellians, but thanks to some stout-hearted defending the sides played out a 0-0 draw. Elsewhere this week, Port Sebastian had to be at their very best to earn a 2-1 win at home to a very dangerous Marionville, Giancoma de Jerusalem coming to the rescue. And The Warriors were held to another frustrating draw at home to Hollin, Fred Dawson cancelling out Ivan Archic's early strike.
Globe Cup -- Play-Off Round
Handon United 1-0 Rozelle (BRE) Port Sebastian 1-0 Krsthaven (SEM)
United might have had a good result in Brenecia, but it was by no means a forgone conclusion when they tie resumed in Handon. Carl Sorensen's side got off to a great start, with Christian Lovenkrads firing in a shot from the edge of the box - which judging by his reaction - not even he expected. United then had to endure something of a storm, with Rozelle playing all action A-League football at its best. In the end however, the Schottic side held out, and moved a step closer to the group phase. It was a remarbaly similar tale at the other side of the city, where Port Sebastian got that all important first half goal, leaving their opponents chasing two, to take the game to extra time. Experienced Quebecois striker Giancoma de Jerusalem, it was who got the only goal of the game.
SPL Kings Park 4–1 New Belfast Blues Cornellians 3–2 Oak Park Celtic Port James Athletic 0–1 Handon United Hollin 3–0 Dundee FC Soessch 4–3 New Belfast Warriors FC Döllar 1–3 Port Patrick United Marionville 2–0 La Gorlions D'Itille 1–1 Port Sebastian Lammerton City 0–0 Berwick United Granton Vale 2–1 Lammerton
On form side Kings Park surged to a second 4-1 victory in as many weeks this weekend, with an away win at NBB. The Royals, who finished second two years ago, look to be possible title contenders, and the addition of Alemane and Sendoa to the midfield seems to have brought about big improvements from last season. Also Kings Park seem to have unearthed a good striker in the form of Estelle Conway, the teenager scoring twice in this match. Handon United kept the momentum going, and continued to keep things tight at the back. The pairing of Nathaniel Bueno-Wells and Tameka Ninetyseventh, already looks like a formidable one, only letting in two goals in six games. United only needed to score once to see off Athletic, Lovenkrands breaking free of Jim Tanner, before squeezing his shot in past the keeper from a tight angle. The battle between Soessch and The Warriors was an interesting one, two sides with new managers, both struggling. It was the reds who triumphed however, leaving Grant Nean's side deep in relegation trouble. The Warriors scored three, and despite a battling performance from Tomás Fierro, and Holly Addison in midfield, they just seem unable to buy a win. At the sharp end FC Soessch were just too, well... sharp, and Bruno Schwartz (2), Melanie Ünterhausen, and Johan Shearer were all on target to edge them to victory. In a top v. bottom battle, Cornellians managed to just squeeze past Oakpark, as they continue to fight right up until the end every week. The Eagles found themselves 2-1 down at half time in this game, before a piece of brilliance from Cassy Brind played through Cosumin Dobrescu for his third of the season. The home side sealed all three points when Eula Richard's long-range drive cannoned off of Han Clancy, to leave Kathryn Kvanderwyk with a tap-in from 30 centimetres out.
Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round
Handon United 0–2 Mliona-Lpaka (TUR) Port Sebastian 0–2 Corona Christiana (OME)
Handon United became the second Schottic side, this year, to fall foul to a Turori side. Mliona-Lpaka were just too strong for United in Handon, putting two past the boys and girls in maroon, in a result that left us wondering if the UICA adventure had run its course. It was, once again a carbon copy over in the north of the city, as Port Sebastion continue to mirror their city rivals in this competition. Corona Christiana it was, who were the champions' undoing, dishing out another 2-0 defeat.
SPL Lammerton 2–1 Kings Park Berwick United 3–1 Granton Vale Port Sebastian 3–1 Lammerton City La Gorlions 2–0 D'Itille Port Patrick United 0–1 Marionville New Belfast Warriors 0–1 FC Döllar Dundee 2–2 FC Soessch Handon United 2–1 Hollin Oak Park Celtic 0–2 Port James Athletic New Belfast Blues 0–0 Cornellians
This week The Hornets got back to winning ways, with a very impressive 2-1 win over Kings Park, to prove that there is life after John McCormack. Mars Alexandersson opened the scoring with a stunning strike just after the half our mark - the Northwestern Sunriser curled home her goal-of-the-month contender after she was teed up by youngster Robard Horvat 30-yards-out. King Park pulled level on the stroke of half time as Darren O'Brian played an angled ball into the path of Francis Keelinan. However Merry Osbourne settled things ten minutes from the end after John Cooper flicked Alexandersson's corner in to the Brecianian's path. Port Sebastian are doing their best this season to prove that their championship win was no flash in the pan, and looked solid once again, with a 3-1 win over Lammerton City. Esther Abner slid the ball into the path of Demba Traore to open the scoring after 14 minutes, before Joey Bia doubled the score ten minutes later with a left footed drive from inside the box. City pulled one back on the stroke of half time when new signing Flora Klee showed her persistence, holding off the challenge of Lara Silverstein before hitting her shot past Chris Gonzaö in the Porty goal. In the end Chiyoko Sakuraka rounded things of for the titleholders, the Kirisakian's expert turn left her free of Thomas Carmichael, and she curled her shot in at the far post. After their disappointment of the week before Marionville put in another impressive performance this week, a David Daller header enough to give them over Port Patrick. Over in North Islands, the Pays La Gorla derby ended 2-0 in The Lions favour, as their Danu Parc record helped them overcome D'Itille. It will have been a relief for Pascal Voitle after a few weeks of struggling for results. Jago Avelione was at his very best, powering home the opener after some good footwork form Jade Irwin; and he got his second shortly after, raising to nodding Billy Small's corner past Gary Thornly to give his side a deserved victory.
Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round
(TUR) Mliona-Lpaka 3-1 Handon United (OME) Corona Christiana 3-1 Port Sebastian
As we suspected, both Schottic sides left in the competition fell at the final hurdle, the two Handon rival losing 3-1 on the road. The result leaves Schottia still waiting for a first glimpse of Globe Cup football, and their is no doubt that this is something the sides will be out to rectify. On the day however, the was very little grumbling left to be done, as United and Porty were both undeniably outplayed over the two legs.
SPL Kings Park 2–3 Cornellians Port James Athletic 4–2 New Belfast Blues Hollin 2–0 Oak Park Celtic FC Soessch 1–5 Handon United FC Döllar 1–0 Dundee Marionville 5–3 New Belfast Warriors D'Itille 1–1 Port Patrick United Lammerton City 0–0 La Gorlions Granton Vale 0–2 Port Sebastian Lammerton 4–0 Berwick United
Handon United fans were sent travelling home through the Soessch tunnel very happy indeed as their side romped to a 5-1 win over old their old North Island rivals. Isaac Nketiah (2), Aya Bernman, Nik Konstidios, and Devon Carranza-Jones all scored for United, in what was a very polished performance. At points Soessch looked in danger of being completely overrun, as wingers Bernman and Lovenkrands in particular took the game to the home side. On this performance, you would say the two 19-year-olds will both have big futures at the club. Marionville kept up their good start too this week, with a 5-3 win over a sorry Warriors side. Vojnomir Nikolic and Mike Maxwell both scored twice, as the Old Boys continue to look like the kind of side that could really challenge for a UICA place. There were also important away wins for fellow title challengers Port Sebastian and Cornellians this week. Porty did just enough to edge out Granton Vale, with goals from Emiline Millet and Kaija Koppel - while The Eagles recorded the favourite score line, once again, in an impressive 3-2 win at Kings Park. Finally, Lammerton made the most of their second home game on the bounce, with a 4-0 win over a lacklustre Berwick. John Cooper broke the deadlock after he latched on to a pass from Timo Düd, before Merry Osbourne doubled the Hornets' lead. Cooper added his second just after the hour mark, and Mars Alexandersson rounded things off with a great solo effort moments from the end.
SPL Berwick United 0–1 Kings Park Port Sebastian 3–0 Lammerton La Gorlions 1–2 Granton Vale Port Patrick United 1–0 Lammerton City New Belfast Warriors 3–2 D'Itille Dundee 0–0 Marionville Handon United 1–0 FC Döllar Oak Park Celtic 0–1 FC Soessch New Belfast Blues 1–0 Hollin Cornellians 3–1 Port James Athletic
There would have been some relief for Grant Nean this week as The Warriors recorded only their second win of the season. The timing could not have been better, with a fans protest scheduled for after that game, calling for his sacking. Despite taking all three points, the win did not come easy, and it took a gutsy performance from the home side to shake off D'Itille. Tomás Fierro opened the scoring with a side-footed effort from the edge of the box, before Jenny Lundergrand doubled her side's lead. Callum Frir pulled one back for the Lime Greens, before captain Ivan Archic scored the decisive third goal. Port Sebastian are beginning to look like the kind of team more than capable of winning back to back titles, as their 3-0 win over Lammerton illustrated. The Hornets looked out of sorts, as Demba Traore slammed home two first half goals to put the game well beyond the visitors. Porty finished their rivals off on 60 minutes after a Joey Bia through ball found Giancoma de Jerusalem in space, and the Quebecois striker despatched a low drive beyond Tim Fines in the Lammerton goal. Cornellians put is a sound performance to sweep aside Athletic, as they seem to be finding their swing. Kathryn Kvanderwyk opened the scoring skidding in at full tilt to poke Eloisa Purinton's pass in at the back post, before the young Cosumarite returned the favour, setting up the Gloriaxian skipper for the side's second. Dahrla Bhosz pulled one back for Athletic, but substitute Mabel Finnemark sealed all three points with a strike late in the game.
SPL Kings Park 4–4 Port James Athletic Hollin 0–3 Cornellians FC Soessch 2–3 New Belfast Blues FC Döllar 0–0 Oak Park Celtic Marionville 0–0 Handon United D'Itille 0–1 Dundee Lammerton City 1–0 New Belfast Warriors Granton Vale 2–3 Port Patrick United Lammerton 2–0 La Gorlions Berwick United 3–5 Port Sebastian
Hollin is never an easy place to go and get a result, but Cornellians made it look easy this week as goals from Cassy Brind, Eloisa Purinton, and Tsumugi Narita gave them a resounding away win. It was goals galore as Port Sebastian took on Berwick in a 5-3 victory on the New Island. Emline Millet was at her best getting on the score sheet twice in the victory, which cemented her side's place at the top of the table. Port Patrick also kept up their strong start to the season, showing us just why they are now a force to be reckoned with, in a 3-2 win over North Handon rivals Granton Vale. On loan from North Hall, the quality of Tanya Yeats was underlined, as the midfielder scored The Breakers second. Elsewhere, Kings Park and Port James Athletic played out an exciting 4-4 draw, Handon United and Marionvill played out a less exciting 0-0 draw, and Dundee got a valuable 1-0 win away to D'Itille. Finally, a 1-0 defeat at Lammerton City was enough for New Belfast Warriors board, who decided to part company with Grant Nean after only ten games in charge, the result leaving them deep in the relegation zone.
SPL Port Sebastian 2–2 Kings Park La Gorlions 2–1 Berwick United Port Patrick United 2–4 Lammerton New Belfast Warriors 3–0 Granton Vale Dundee 5–1 Lammerton City Handon United 2–0 D'Itille Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Marionville New Belfast Blues 1–0 FC Döllar Cornellians 2–3 FC Soessch Port James Athletic 1–0 Hollin
Wednesday saw the appointment of Graeme Collins as Warriors manager. The 39-year-old moving over from Regional Division D side New Island, seemed to make an instant impact, recording the side's third win of the season. Whatever the new manager did, it seemed to work, as Adrienne O'Callahan, Craig O'Maramy, and Jenny Lundergrand, all found the net against the normally decent Granton Vale. Dundee notched up a 5-1 win over Lammerton City this week, as Jock Sonny continues to find his feet since taking over. Dundee are looking like a much improved side this season, as goals from Jacques (2), Davy Galmore, Liam Goncalves, and Gustav Fandrich showed us. Soessch, and their manager Gary Stoot were perhaps a side under even more pressure than Grant Nean had been, so their 3-2 win at Cornellians will have been very welcome. Konstantin Holstad was on top form for Soessch, scoring twice in that game. The chasing pack were given some hope this week as Kings Park managed to hold Port Sebastian to a 2-2 draw. Up until this point the reigning champs had looked pretty invincible, but a strong performance from 22-year-old Erin Braden, helped The Royals to a share of the points at Dryerton. Braden's pinpoint pass, late on, cut the defence open, allowing Corvid Alemane to slot home her third of the season. Porty took the lead twice in this game, and will be disappointed that they had to settle for a draw. The result will be a welcome relief to Handon United who managed 2-0 win at home to D'Itille, thanks to goals from Serge Mavididi and Alfred Seggerson.
SPL Kings Park 1–1 Hollin FC Soessch 1–0 Port James Athletic FC Döllar 1–1 Cornellians Marionville 1–0 New Belfast Blues D'Itille 2–0 Oak Park Celtic Lammerton City 2–2 Handon United Granton Vale 1–0 Dundee Lammerton 2–2 New Belfast Warriors Berwick United 0–1 Port Patrick United Port Sebastian 3–1 La Gorlions
As the SPL reached matchday twelve, Port Sebastian kept themselves on top with an impressive 3-1 win over La Gorlions. The Lions threw everything they had at them, but the combination of Bia and Traore either side of de Jerusalem in attack, has been proving too much for so many sides. Semar, Traore, scored a first half double as he kept his impressive tally going. Despite Houben pulling one back for the visitors, substitute Kaija Koppel rounded things off with a stoppage time header to make the score line look a little one-sided. That result will look all the better given that both Handon United and Cornellians could only manage draws against some of the league's weaker opposition. Port Patrick and Marionville both took full advantage of the situation to put themselves right in the mix. Larry Goodman's 50 minute goal against NBB helped The Old Boys to a very respectable second in the league. And for Port Patrick, the on form Tanya Yates tapped home from close range to give The Breakers a win over Berwick, after Cerys Kennicot's shot rebounded off the post. Elsewhere Graeme Collins' revival of New Belfast Warriors continued, as they managed a 2-2 draw away to Lammerton. Arron Marcie and John Cooper scored for The Hornets, but goals from Ivan Archic and Craig O'Maramy were good enough for a share of the points.
Monthly Awards:
Player: Mars Alexandersson -- Lammerton The Northwestern Sunriser picked up exactly where she left off last season. Some great displays in the attacking midfield - she combines defence-splitting passing, and a keen eye for goal.
Young Player: Demba Traore -- Port Sebastian The powerful striker got off to a flying start, proving to everyone that his goal tally from last season was no fluke. Traore has the pace to take defenders on, as well as the strength to hold his own in the challenge.
Manager: Jock Sonny -- Dundee Making up for the disappointment of being sacked by The Warriors at the end of last season. Sonny seems to have the newly promoted side ticking over nicely; they already look like a tough team to beat.
Player: Cerys Kennicot -- Port Patrick You get the feeling that if The Breakers can keep a hold of this player, then they can really go far. Her combination of hard graft and a great left-foot delivery makes her extremely dangerous. Something of a late bloomer, she was almost unheard of until she turned 22, but the Port Patrick youth product is making up for lost time now.
Young Player: Kathryn Kvanderwyk -- Cornellians Alexander Pearce has been vindicated in putting his faith in this young striker. There was criticism levied against him for not splashing out in the transfer window, but young Kvanderwyk has helped to prove her manager right. With boundless energy she has harassed defenders throughout the Schottic Isles this season, as her five goals in her opening eight matches proves.
Manager: Basil Bunton -- Marionville Marionville have been a breath of fresh air this season, with the Old Boys playing some really good football. In particular, Bunton has midfielders Vojnomir Nikolic and Barry Stewart to thank for this award.
Player: Corvid Alemane -- Kings Park Alemane got off to a bit of a slow start this since joining the club on loan, but within a few games the Nepharim winger was firing on all cylinders. The 21-year-old's style of play has been a perfect fit for the way Kings Park set up, and with Erin Braden and Sendoa so solid in the middle of the park, it has given Alemane a licence to go forward.
Young Player: Isaac Nketiah -- Handon United Often slightly in the shadows of his Semarlandic strike partner Mavididi last season, Isaac Nketiah has really upped his game, and seems to benefit from playing in a more conventional 4-4-2.
Manager: Graeme Collins -- New Belfast Warriors Up and coming manager Collins seems to have come in at the nick of time to save The Whalers. Their third manager in 12 months, he will be hoping to do better than his predecessors.
Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Port Sebastian 12 9 2 1 31 14 +17 29 2 Marionville 12 8 2 2 20 8 +12 26 3 Handon United 12 7 4 1 17 6 +11 25 4 Port Patrick United 12 8 1 3 25 17 +8 25 5 Cornellians 12 7 3 2 27 15 +12 24 6 Lammerton 12 7 3 2 23 13 +10 24 7 Kings Park 12 6 3 3 25 18 +7 21 8 Port James Athletic 12 5 1 6 17 20 −3 16 9 Granton Vale 12 5 1 6 14 21 −7 16 10 La Gorlions 12 4 3 5 11 13 −2 15 11 Dundee 12 4 3 5 10 14 −4 15 12 D'Itille 12 3 5 4 16 16 0 14 13 Hollin 12 4 2 6 13 14 −1 14 14 New Belfast Blues 12 4 2 6 12 18 −6 14 15 FC Soessch 12 4 2 6 19 28 −9 14 16 FC Döllar 12 3 4 5 9 10 −1 13 17 New Belfast Warriors 12 3 3 6 20 22 −2 12 18 Berwick United 12 3 1 8 12 28 −16 10 19 Lammerton City 12 1 4 7 5 15 −10 7 20 Oak Park Celtic 12 0 1 11 4 20 −16 1
Schottic Cup -- Round of Thirty-two
Handon North 1–0 Snubbeak Rock Kings Park 3–0 New Island Marionville Thistle 0–1 Marionville Port Sebastian 3–0 Granton Vale New Belfast Blues 0–2 Hollin La Gorlions 3–0 D'Itille Kirk Preston 1–0 Cornellians Allous VB 1–2 Port James Athletic Berwick United 1–0 Döllar Dundee 5–2 Hillstreet Port Patrick 0–0 Soessch 1990 (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.) Oak Park Celtic 1–3 New Belfast Warriors Lammerton City 0–0 Lammerton (0–2 AET) Regional Development Side C 0–3 Mucusia Handon United 2–0 Regional Development Side A Lammerton Wonderers 0–3 FC Soessch
Schottic Cup -- Round of Sixteen
Handon United 0–0 Berwick United (0–0 AET) (6–7 pen.) Port James Athletic 3–1 Mucusia Handon North 4-1 Kirk Preston Soessch 1990 0–1 La Gorlions Kings Park 0–1 FC Soessch Marionville 0–1 Lammerton Dundee 3–2 Port Sebastian New Belfast Warriors 3–0 Hollin
Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2016 9:11 am
by Schottia
Matchday thirteen - twenty-five
SPL La Gorlions 0–2 Kings Park Port Patrick United 0–0 Port Sebastian New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Berwick United Dundee 3–4 Lammerton Handon United 3–3 Granton Vale Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Lammerton City New Belfast Blues 2–2 D'Itille Cornellians 3–2 Marionville Port James Athletic 0–1 FC Döllar Hollin 1–3 FC Soessch
Graeme Collins' unbeaten start at New Belfast Warriors continued with a 1-0 win over Berwick United. Upper Sunriser Jenny Lundergrand was on hand to finish, after Adrienne O'Callahan's tantalising cross found the striker unmarked at the back post. The win ensures that the side continue to move in the right direction, lifting them out of the relegation zone. Cornellians will be delighted to have come away with all three points, as they welcomed the on form Marionville to Lochend Park. Eloisa Purinton was at her brilliant best, scoring twice in the match, with Eula Richard grabbing the side's third with a long range drive. In a dogged performance, Jonny Birch scored his first goal for Marionville, as the battling midfielder continues to grow with each game. It wasn't enough to rescue a share of the points, however, as the match ended 3-2. The battle of the Handon Ports ended goalless which will have given some of the other sides a glimmer of home. Kings Park were first to take full advantage; Estelle Conway was on target with a great volley, as they brushed past La Gorlions. And Lammerton did their hopes of Globe Cup football no harm with a 4-3 win at a feisty Dundee. Merry Osbourne and John Cooper seem to be forging a great partnership for The Hornets, and both strikers were on target as they edged out the Division two champions.
SPL Kings Park 2–1 FC Soessch FC Döllar 2–2 Hollin Marionville 1–0 Port James Athletic D'Itille 3–0 Cornellians Lammerton City 0–1 New Belfast Blues Granton Vale 1–0 Oak Park Celtic Lammerton 0–2 Handon United Berwick United 0–1 Dundee Port Sebastian 2–2 New Belfast Warriors La Gorlions 3–1 Port Patrick United
Handon United, who have been a little down on their luck so far, had arguably their best game of the season, as they defeated Lammeron 2-0 away from home. Despite the Hornets probably feeling it was a game they could win, United were in charge from start to finish, with goals from Serge Mavididi, and Quinn McEnithly easing them to victory. Another side near the top, who looked to capitalise, were Kings Park, who faced a resurgent Soessch at home. The Royals weathered an early scare - going down 1-0 in the opening five minute - and came back to win the match 2-1 thanks to goals from Francis Keelinan and Darren O'Brian. D'Itille had in incredible win at home to Cornellians, with Callum Frir, Lucas Yashvil, and John Scooner all on target. Similarly, La Gorlions had a smashing win against Port Patrick, as The Breakers continue to stutter and splutter. Jade Irwin, Jago Avelione, and Billy Small were all on target. Finally Port Sebastian were held to 2-2 draw at home, by a Warriors side who keep looking better and better. Kaija Koppel gave Porty the lead, only for veteran striker Ivan Archic to pull the visitors level. The champs went ahead again, this time it was Quebecois striker Giancoma de Jerusalem, who pounced to stab home a Chiyoko Sakuraka cross. In the end, it finished all square as rising Cenian star Tomás Fierro blew the roof off every bar in New Belfast with a thunderous drive, from all of 20 meters out.
SPL Port Patrick United 3–1 Kings Park New Belfast Warriors 4–1 La Gorlions Dundee 2–3 Port Sebastian Handon United 1–0 Berwick United Oak Park Celtic 0–0 Lammerton New Belfast Blues 3–0 Granton Vale Cornellians 1–0 Lammerton City Port James Athletic 1–0 D'Itille Hollin 0–1 Marionville FC Soessch 2–0 FC Döllar
Port Patrick are a very different side these days, so it wouldn't have been much of a surprise that they picked up three points at home to Kings Park, the only thing that would have surprised us was the ease of their 3-1 win. Paul Coine opened the scoring for The Breakers, with Jane Swanson doubling their lead before the break. Tanya Yeats added a third in the second half, courtesy of a Markus Bren cross, before Estelle Conway scored a consolation goal late on. While many of the big sides seem to be struggling to grind out consistent results, The Warriors are now flying all of a sudden, as they actually look like they could claw back the massive gap. The Lundergrand, Archic combo up front was on song once again as they defeated La Gorlions 4-1 at Ashley Road. Port Sebastian struggled against Dundee, but the champions managed to scrape a victory in the end, with Emiline Millet's late strike. Vera Cummings and Jacques had put The Panners in front at one stage, but the Ko-oren midfielder's goal meant Porty stay top of the league. Cornellians and Handon United had similar difficulties, picking up 1-0 wins at Lammerton City and Berwick United respectively. Kathryn Kvanderwyk was on target for The Eagles, with Christian Lovenkrands grabbing the winner for United.
SPL Kings Park 2–0 FC Döllar Marionville 2–1 FC Soessch D'Itille 1–1 Hollin Lammerton City 1–0 Port James Athletic Granton Vale 2–4 Cornellians Lammerton 3–1 New Belfast Blues Berwick United 0–1 Oak Park Celtic Port Sebastian 3–0 Handon United La Gorlions 1–0 Dundee Port Patrick United 0–1 New Belfast Warriors
As a Port Sebastian fan, there is nothing better than giving Handon United a good kicking. Years of watching United win title after title was a bitter one for their city rivals; so the 3-0 win at home will have been extra sweet. The match wasn't actually as one sided as the score line suggests, and the visitors had a lot of the early play. The deadlock was broken after 32 mins, when Joey Bia fired in at the near post to beat Lucas D'Araby. Despite some good chances, United couldn't pull level, and second half goals from de Jerusalem and Traore sealed the win for the champions. Cornellians made easier work of Granton Vale this week, as they continue to push up the table. Scott Cooper and Jack Hobbs both scored for The Beachcombers, but goals from Eloisa Purinton (2), Cosmin Dobrescu, and Casey Brind meant The Eagles cruised to victory. There was also a welcome home victory for Lammerton, who have been stuttering a little en route to the league's half way point. Arron Marcie scored twice, and Merry Osbourne grabbed the other as they won 3-0 against NBB.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 4–2 Kings Park Dundee 0–2 Port Patrick United Handon United 4–1 La Gorlions Oak Park Celtic 1–1 Port Sebastian New Belfast Blues 3–2 Berwick United Cornellians 3–1 Lammerton Port James Athletic 3–2 Granton Vale Hollin 0–0 Lammerton City FC Soessch 4–2 D'Itille FC Döllar 0–0 Marionville
New Belfast Warriors continued on their winning streak with a 4-2 victory at home to Kings Park. Ivan Archic was predictably on target for The Whalers, as were Adrienne O'Callahan and Craig O'Maramy, as they put in anther great performance. Despite goals from Francis Keelinan and Sendoa, The Royals really struggled to make any impact on the match. Handon United were in desperate need of a solid win, to settle some of their supporters' nerves, and they got it. The 4-1 win against La Gorlions saw Carl Sorensen's side at their best, the pick of the goals - a powerful Isaac Nketiah header - gave the title challengers an unassailable lead in the closing stages, following a great cross from Aya Bernman. Result of the weekend however, was probably Cornellians' 3-1 win over Lammerton. Cosmin Dobrescu's clever pass cut open the Hornets' defence of 18 minutes for the opener, Kathryn Kvanderwyk tucking the ball away. And the young Cosumarite turned provider 20 minutes later, with a neat cut-back for Fleftic midfielder Mabel Finnemark to double their lead. Lammerton pulled one back with a close range effort from John Cooper, but The Eagles rounded things off with a Daniel Sturridge goal four minutes from the end.
SPL Kings Park 2–1 Marionville D'Itille 2–0 FC Döllar Lammerton City 0–0 FC Soessch Granton Vale 0–0 Hollin Lammerton 0–1 Port James Athletic Berwick United 2–4 Cornellians Port Sebastian 2–1 New Belfast Blues La Gorlions 2–0 Oak Park Celtic Port Patrick United 1–0 Handon United New Belfast Warriors 3–1 Dundee
Port Patrick recorded a fantastic home win this weekend against Handon United, who continue to blow hot and cold. Former Port Sebastian striker Paul Coine scored the only goal of the game, as The Breakers kept themselves in the hunt for a UICA place. There was also another strong win for Kings Park, who are looking like an improved side this season. Francis Keelinan, and Corvid Alemane were on target as they ground out a 2-1 win over Marionville at home. Cornellians seem to be stringing together some much more consistent results too at the moment, and they were un-phased by the trip to The New Island, scoring four against Berwick United. Team captain Eloisa Purinton put in a commanding performance up front, but there was also a rare goal from wing-back Triffid Ramsey who scored her second of the season with an excellent drive from the edge of the area. Port Sebastian are still hanging in there, and look very good at he moment to make it two championships on the bounce. Esther Abner's cross picked out Debma Traore to give his side the lead against NBB, and they sealed all three points late on with Kaija Koppel's fifth of the season, as the Vormsian continues to establish herself.
SPL Dundee 3–3 Kings Park Handon United 0–1 New Belfast Warriors Oak Park Celtic 1–1 Port Patrick United New Belfast Blues 1–0 La Gorlions Cornellians 3–1 Port Sebastian Port James Athletic 1–0 Berwick United Hollin 0–0 Lammerton FC Soessch 2–0 Granton Vale FC Döllar 0–0 Lammerton City Marionville 3–2 D'Itille
Dundee held Kings Park in a thrilling three-all draw at Granier Road this week, coming from behind three times to take a share of the points against the top-four challengers. Christopheran striker Jacques scored on 14 minutes to cancel out Estelle Conway's opener for The Royals, only to see his side go behind again to a Darren O'Brian strike. The Panners stuck to their task, and pulled level once again, this time thanks to the efforts of Nepharim midfielder Gustav Fandrich, who struck with a well timed half-volley. Kings Park went ahead once more, through Fandrich's countrywoman Corvid Alemane, who rattled in a low, angled shot, before young Vera Cummings squared things again with her third goal of the season. New Belfast Warriors have been simply unbeatable, and their fans must be thanking their lucky stars that they changed manager. This time a second half goal from Upper Sunriser Jenny Lundergrand was enough to earn them a win against Handon United at Harbour Hill, in a result which sees them climb further up the table. Finally Cornellians dealt what could be a pivotal blow in the race for the title as they defeated Port Sebastian 3-1 at home. The Eagles were by far the brighter of the two sides, and really took the game to Porty. They had the golden girls up front to thank for the victory once again, with Purinton and Kvanderwyk both getting on the score sheet.
SPL Kings Park 3–2 D'Itille Marionville 0–0 Lammerton City FC Döllar 3–2 Granton Vale FC Soessch 1–2 Lammerton Hollin 3–1 Berwick United Port James Athletic 1–1 Port Sebastian Cornellians 1–2 La Gorlions New Belfast Blues 3–2 Port Patrick United Oak Park Celtic 0–1 New Belfast Warriors Handon United 3–2 Dundee
This week there were much needed wins for both Handon United and Lammerton as both sides look to chase down the league leaders. United had to really slog it out against a Dundee side, which is looking better and better as the season goes on. In the end it took a piece of brilliance from Alf Seggerson, who placed his pinpoint freekick right on the head of Isaac Nketiah for the Semar to nod home in stoppage time. United handed a debut to Cenian internationalist Jacrian Ryaden 27, who had been out of work since leaving Patistan. The World Cup star will be hoping to establish himself in place of club captain Lucas D’Araby, who is expected to retire at the end of the season. Lammerton also got back to wining ways with a battling 2-1 win at FC Soessch. Merry Osbourne scored twice, as The Hornets proved to be ruthless in front of goal, taking their chances in a match where they were second best for long periods. Finally The old Warriors seem to be well and truly back with us, as on current form they are reminiscent of the team that lifted the title three seasons ago. This week they didn’t have it all their own way, as Oakpark dug deep to frustrate them. In what has thus far been a good week for Cenians in the SPL, it was Tomás Fierro who grabbed the winning goal on 65 minutes, after an Ivan Archic flick on in the 18-yard-box
SPL Handon United 2–1 Kings Park Dundee 2–0 Oak Park Celtic New Belfast Warriors 3–2 New Belfast Blues Port Patrick United 2–3 Cornellians La Gorlions 1–0 Port James Athletic Port Sebastian 4–4 Hollin Berwick United 0–0 FC Soessch Lammerton 1–0 FC Döllar Granton Vale 2–4 Marionville Lammerton City 0–0 D'Itille
Jacrian Ryaden keeping the number one jersey for Handon United might mean that we have now seen the last of Lucas D’Araby, with the player bringing down the curtain on 16 years with the club. The Cenian had to be on his toes to deny countryman Sendoa late on, and ensure that his side were able to get the better on Kings Park, en route to successive victories. With Port Sebastian drawing 4-4 with Holin, it was a great chance for the chasing pack to make up some ground, and it wasn’t an opportunity any of them passed up. Cornellains had Cosmin Dobrescu to thank for a 3-2 win over Port Patrick – the Jedorian once again at his best. Marionville were too strong for Granton Vale, with Vojnomir Nikolic and Michael Maxwell both on target in a 4-2 victory away from home. For Lammerton it was Mars Alexandersson they had to look to with her 57 minute goal at home to Döller, earning her side a hard fought victory. And finally, we are left wondering if Graeme Collins can do anything more in the Warriors fans’ eyes, as he led the team to a 3-2 derby win over the Blues.
SPL Kings Park 2–2 Lammerton City D'Itille 2–3 Granton Vale Marionville 3–3 Lammerton FC Döllar 0–1 Berwick United FC Soessch 2–3 Port Sebastian Hollin 0–0 La Gorlions Port James Athletic 3–2 Port Patrick United Cornellians 0–2 New Belfast Warriors New Belfast Blues 3–1 Dundee Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Handon United
Another win, another shut out, helped United up to second in the table. Aya Bernman got across quickly to power home a low Christian Lovenkrads cross, as her side narrowly beat Oakpark. Port Sebastian stay top of the table after a difficult match against FC Soessch. Demba Traore, Emiline Millet, Lara Silverstein were all on target for the champions, who will be relieved to have left the North Island with all three points. If New Belfast Warriors had started the season like this, it would have been all over by now, as they exceeded expectations once again, Jenny Lundergrand and Holly Addison helping them to a win over Cornellians. And finally Lammerton got a very important three points away to Marionville, in the battle for the UICA spots. Merry Osbourne, John Cooper, and Timo Düd were all on target for the Hornets.
SPL Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Kings Park Handon United 2–2 New Belfast Blues Dundee 1–0 Cornellians New Belfast Warriors 3–3 Port James Athletic Port Patrick United 0–0 Hollin La Gorlions 4–2 FC Soessch Port Sebastian 0–0 FC Döllar Berwick United 3–3 Marionville Lammerton 4–2 D'Itille Granton Vale 3–0 Lammerton City
Week 23 and Soessch seem to be in all sorts of problems now, losing 4-2 to North Island rivals La Gorlions. Danu Parc once again proved to be a graveyard for the big teams, as a spirited performance from young Jade Irwin will have given The Lions something to celebrate. A club not normally renowned for its eye-catching football, the home side actually had one of their best games of the season. Away from the pressures of The Nepharim league the former Crisisbless United play-maker seems to be playing without fear, and she had a hand in two of the sides goals. The incredible run had to come to an end at some point for New Belfast Warriors, and in the end it was Athletic who held the Whalers to a 3-3 draw at Ashley Road. Graeme Collins’ side have been unstoppable since he took over, but this week a late Joseph Preca goal was his side’s undoing. In another strange week for score lines; Cornellians went down 1-0 to Dundee thanks to a Barry Drite goal, Port Sebastian were held 0-0 at home by FC Döllar, and despite a Serge Mavididi double, Handon United could only manage a 2-2 draw with NBB. The only side to really capitalise were Lammerton, who defeated D’Itille 4-2, thanks to a John Cooper hattrick, and a late Mars Alexandersson freekick.
SPL Kings Park 2–3 Granton Vale Lammerton City 0–1 Lammerton D'Itille 1–1 Berwick United Marionville 1–2 Port Sebastian FC Döllar 2–0 La Gorlions FC Soessch 1–3 Port Patrick United Hollin 2–1 New Belfast Warriors Port James Athletic 0–0 Dundee Cornellians 2–0 Handon United New Belfast Blues 1–0 Oak Park Celtic
Cornellians leapfrogged Handon United this week with a 2-0 win at home. Kathryn Kvanderwyk rose highest to head home a Eula Richard freekick on the hour mark, before a scramble at a Casey Brind corner saw the ball fall kindly for Tsumugi Narita to blast home from close range. As we approach the final third of the season the result will come as a very bitter blow for United, who had fought hard to get themselves back in contention. The other Handon sides had less trouble this week: Port Sebastian extended their lead at the top of the table with a 2-1 win away to Marionville, thanks to goals from Giancoma de Jerusalem and Chiyoko Sakuraka. Whereas Port Patrick United heaped more misery on FC Soessch with a 3-1 win; Paul Coine (2), and Tanya Yates were both on target for The Breakers
SPL New Belfast Blues 1–2 Kings Park Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Cornellians Handon United 1–2 Port James Athletic Dundee 2–2 Hollin New Belfast Warriors 0–0 FC Soessch Port Patrick United 2–1 FC Döllar La Gorlions 4–3 Marionville Port Sebastian 1–0 D'Itille Berwick United 0–3 Lammerton City Lammerton 1–0 Granton Vale
Twenty five matches in, and there is still so much to play for, with the top seven all within ten points of eachother. Port Sebastian consolidated their position at the top thanks to a Demba Traore goal, which was all it took to see of D’Itille. It was a similar story for second place Cornallians who won 1-0 at OakPark, Cosmin Dobrescu curling in 18 metre effort. Handon United also slumped down to fifth as Lammerton jumped two places to third following a 1-0 win over Granton Vale. The Hornets had Merry Osbourne to thank on this occasion, the striker doing well to get on the end of an Arron Marcie through ball. At the other end it looks like Lammerton City have been sucked into a relegation battle as they may have finally used up their nine lives.
Monthly Awards:
Player: Eula Richard – Cornellians In her fourth season with the club the Messilan midfielder has been outstanding. Starting her career as a left sided player, she has been switched to a deep holding roll from where she instigates most of the side’s attacks. Fantastic delivery both in deadball situations and in open play.
Young Player: Estelle Conway – Kings Park Spirited young striker Conway has burst onto the scene this season following some good goal scoring form in the reserves. While most of us thought it was going to be Francis Keelinan who stood out in attack for The Royals, it is to Conway’s credit that she has made such an impact.
Manager: Graeme Collins – New Belfast Warriors He continues to improve the Warriors, who only two months ago looked dead and buried. It is hard to believe that this is the same squad.
Player: Tomás Fierro—New Belfast Warriors Part of Ceni’s golden generation when the side reached the final of the Di Bradini Cup final, Fierro has been a big factor in The Warriors come back. He is a young midfielder who looks very comfortable on the ball, and at only 20, will no doubt keep getting better and better.
Young Player: Aya Bernaman – Handon United Bernman must surely now be on the radar for a senior cap. The lightning quick attacking midfielder has been on fine form for Handon United, combining well with the other midfielders. Another home-grown player Bernman could be the next in a long line of United players to make it to the world stage.
Manager: Aleaxander Pearce -- Cornellians At times Cornellians have played the best football in the league this season. Consistently Pearce has kept the side near the top of the table, moving them forward over the last three seasons, and deserves some credit.
Player: Cerys Kennicot -- Port Patrick Kennicot has been in the difficult position of having to replicate her fantastic form from last season under renewed pressure. While there have been some tricky matches for The Breakers, Kennicot has adjusted well to her sides second season in the top flight, chipping in important goals from the midfield.
Young Player: Jade Irwin-- La Gorlians One of this season’s surprise packages, Jade Irwin has gone from a reject, who might well have ended up on football’s scrapheap, to an important part of This Lions side. While she can have off days, and her ambitious passes don’t always come off, when she is on song she is the player who makes the team tick.
Manager: Des Pleent -- Port Patrick Pleent must be attracting the eye of some of the bigger clubs, as he seems now to have helped Port Patrick transition from a second tier side to a team capable of pushing for a top-four place
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Port Sebastian 25 15 8 2 54 31 +23 53 2 Cornellians 25 16 3 6 52 33 +19 51 3 Lammerton 25 14 6 5 43 29 +14 48 4 Marionville 25 13 6 6 44 30 +14 45 5 Handon United 25 13 6 6 36 24 +12 45 6 Kings Park 25 13 5 7 50 40 +10 44 7 Port Patrick United 25 13 4 8 44 34 +10 43 8 New Belfast Warriors 25 12 6 7 46 35 +11 42 9 New Belfast Blues 25 11 4 10 36 37 −1 37 10 Port James Athletic 25 11 4 10 32 33 −1 37 11 La Gorlions 25 11 4 10 30 33 −3 37 12 Granton Vale 25 9 3 13 35 48 −13 30 13 Hollin 25 6 11 8 28 29 −1 29 14 FC Soessch 25 8 5 12 38 47 −9 29 15 Dundee 25 7 6 12 28 38 −10 27 16 FC Döllar 25 6 8 11 18 24 −6 26 17 D'Itille 25 5 9 11 35 39 −4 24 18 Lammerton City 25 4 10 11 12 23 −11 22 19 Berwick United 25 4 4 17 22 50 −28 16 20 Oak Park Celtic 25 1 4 20 7 33 −26 7
Schottic Cup -- Quarterfinal Lammerton 4–1 Dundee New Belfast Warriors 3–1 Port James Athletic FC Soessch 3–1 La Gorlions Handon North 1–0 Berwick United
Schottic Cup -- Semi-final Lammerton 0–2 New Belfast Warriors FC Soessch 2–1 Handon North
Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2016 2:22 am
by Schottia
Matchday twenty-six - thirty-eight
SPL Kings Park 1–2 Lammerton Granton Vale 2–0 Berwick United Lammerton City 0–1 Port Sebastian D'Itille 1–1 La Gorlions Marionville 2–1 Port Patrick United FC Döllar 0–1 New Belfast Warriors FC Soessch 1–1 Dundee Hollin 0–2 Handon United Port James Athletic 1–0 Oak Park Celtic Cornellians 4–0 New Belfast Blues
This was a weekend where the teams at the top of the table all consolidated their positions. Cornellins had a fantastic 4-0 win over NBB as they try to home in on a second SPL title. Casey Brind opened the scoring after only 8 minutes, with a looping shot, which beat Jim Black at his far post. Eloisa Purinton added a second on the stroke of half time, tucking away a defence-splitting Narita pass. The Eagles pressed home their advantage in the second half, with Purinton adding her second and the team's fourth, before Kathryn Kvanderwyk rounded things off with a strike form the edge of the penalty area. Lammerton will have been immensely pleased to have taken all three points from their visit to Kings Park. Arron Marcie made it 1-0 for The Hornets with a long range strike on the stroke of half time, only for Francis Keelinan to pull level with a freekick just after the restart. Lammerton always looked like they had another goal left in them however, and Merry Osbourne pounced after a defencive mix-up to give her side an important win on the road. There was no such drama for Handon United, who played out a 2-0 win at Hollin, with a textbook performance. Young defender Nathaniel Bueno-Wells opened the scoring with a scorching header from a Seggerson corner, before 16-year-old substitute Mirka Shitakuari doubled the lead late on with her first goal for the club. Elsewhere, a Joey Bia goal was all it took to separate Port Sebastian and Lammerton City, keeping the reigning champs top of the table.
SPL Cornellians 1–3 Kings Park New Belfast Blues 1–1 Port James Athletic Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Hollin Handon United 0–0 FC Soessch Dundee 1–0 FC Döllar New Belfast Warriors 1–3 Marionville Port Patrick United 4–4 D'Itille La Gorlions 0–0 Lammerton City Port Sebastian 3–1 Granton Vale Berwick United 0–2 Lammerton
The big surprise this week was Cornellians' 3-1 defeat at home to Kings Park, as the young Royals side seem capable of pulling off some big shocks. Creed United Loanee Corvid Alemane looked a whole different class as she went toe to toe with countrywoman Triffid Ramsey down the right flank. The two players had a great battle, but on the base of the scoreline you would say Alemane got the better of her more experienced opponent. Port Sebastian took full advantage of the slip up to put some clear water between themselves and Cornellians. Giancoma de Jerusalem (2), and Demba Traore were both on target for the Steel men in a 3-1 win over Granton Vale. Marionville underlined their top-four credentials, with a 3-1 win away to a resurgent Warriors side. Despite Ivan Archic taking the lead in this match, The Old Boys put in a standout performance with goals from Vojnomir Nikolic, Michael Maxwell, and Jonny Birch.
SPL Kings Park 3–1 Berwick United Lammerton 3–3 Port Sebastian Granton Vale 1–1 La Gorlions Lammerton City 0–2 Port Patrick United D'Itille 0–2 New Belfast Warriors Marionville 1–0 Dundee FC Döllar 0–1 Handon United FC Soessch 4–0 Oak Park Celtic Hollin 1–0 New Belfast Blues Port James Athletic 2–4 Cornellians
New Belfast Warriors got over the upset against Marionville as they edged past Lammeton City, with a 3-2 win. The Princes are in deep trouble this season, but the one shining light seems to be young striker Flora Klee, who scored again today. The 19-year-old had already been referred to as the next Lucy Curren, although that is probably mostly down to the Lammerton City connection. Despite Klee's best efforts, she was simply outdone at the other end by Whalers captain Ivan Archic, the Nekulturnyn proving once again why he is the SPL's all-time top scorer. FC Soessch followed up the hard fought 0-0 draw at United with a comfortable 4-0 win over Oakpark Celtic. Konstantin Holstad, Bruno Schwartz, Melanie Ünterhausen, and Johan Shearer all scored in the rout at Gannon Park. Another team needing to move on this weekend were Cornellians, and they did just that with a 4-2 win over Port James Athletic. Athletic have been looking much harder to beat this season, so Eagles manger Alexander Pearce will no doubt be over the moon with the performance, which keeps them in touch at the top of the table. The match between Lammerton and Port Sebastian had intrigue written all over it, and it did not disappoint. Porty took the lead through Demba Traore on 23 minutes, the Semar latching onto an Emiline Millet pass, before John Copper levelled for the Hornets. The visitors took the lead again early in the second half with a goal from Kirisakian midfielder Sakuraki, only for Mars Alexandersson to pull her side level again with a long range effort. The Hornets must have then thought they had won it, when Merry Osbourne scored with a bullet header, however a late goal from Kaija Koppel meant that things finished all square.
SPL Port James Athletic 3–2 Kings Park Cornellians 2–0 Hollin New Belfast Blues 1–3 FC Soessch Oak Park Celtic 0–0 FC Döllar Handon United 1–0 Marionville Dundee 0–0 D'Itille New Belfast Warriors 3–2 Lammerton City Port Patrick United 2–2 Granton Vale La Gorlions 0–1 Lammerton Port Sebastian 4–2 Berwick United
Soessch's mini bounce continued this week, as they finally started to look a little more like the side which finished third two seasons ago. Young Melanie ünterhausen, perhaps spurred on by the fact that her twin is making all the headlines in the national team, was on target once again, scoring the side's all important second en route to a 3-1 win over NBB. Cornellians kept up the pace, with a 2-0 win over Hollin, as Eula Richard and Mabel Finnemark both found the back of the net. Lammerton snuck a 1-0 win at La Gorlions to keep them in the chase, Robard Horvat was in the right place at the right time to tap home Mars Alexandersson's pass. And finally, Handon United scrapped to a similar winning margin, against a Marionville side who pressed them from start to finish, Serge Mavididi it was, who grabbed the all important goal.
SPL Kings Park 4–4 Port Sebastian Berwick United 0–3 La Gorlions Lammerton 1–2 Port Patrick United Granton Vale 1–2 New Belfast Warriors Lammerton City 0–1 Dundee D'Itille 0–0 Handon United Marionville 2–1 Oak Park Celtic FC Döllar 3–2 New Belfast Blues FC Soessch 2–1 Cornellians Hollin 2–0 Port James Athletic
An eight-goal thriller left Port Sebastian with a share of the points at Lochely Green Stadium, as they were unable to get the better of a typically gung-ho Kings Park. Despite their usual ruthlessness in front of goal, Porty found their opponents equal to the challenge and a double from Estelle Conway kept a very solid season going for Kings Park. La Gorlions don't pick up many big wins, so when they do, it's probably worth mentioning, even if it is against Berwick United. The Lions have been having an on-off season so far, and the three points on the road will come as a welcome relief. Davy Ellen (2) and Jago Avelione were both on target, as the North Island side cruised to a 3-0 victory. FC Soessch have picked a weird time to start playing football, and they continued to show that the recent resurgence was no flash in the pan, with a 2-1 win over Cornellians. Forgotten man of the Schottic national team, Till Ümann opened the scoring for the side from Bergstadt, before Cosmin Dobrescu pulled the visitors level. It was then left for the league's on form player, Mel Ünterhausen to score the winning goal, which gave her childhood heroes their best win of the season so far.
SPL Hollin 2–0 Kings Park Port James Athletic 1–1 FC Soessch Cornellians 2–0 FC Döllar New Belfast Blues 3–4 Marionville Oak Park Celtic 0–2 D'Itille Handon United 0–1 Lammerton City Dundee 1–1 Granton Vale New Belfast Warriors 4–5 Lammerton Port Patrick United 4–3 Berwick United La Gorlions 1–0 Port Sebastian
The Lions dealt Port Sebastian a real kicking this week, as Jade Irwin's through ball for Davy Ellen produced the only goal of the game. The result comes just as Porty will have been thinking that a couple more wins would put them well on course towards back-to-back titles for the first time in the clubs history. In another exciting match, Lammerton's visit to New Belfast proved to be a real goal fest, with no fewer than nine goals. On this occasion The Hornets edged it in a match that could have gone either way. The result draws something of a line in the sand, with Lammerton looking like the side now more likely to finish in the UICA places and leaving the Warriors lamenting their start to the season. Lammerton's small team, City, managed to give themselves a slither of hope, with a shock 1-0 win over Handon United, Thomas Carmichael scoring the only goal. And finally, Cornellians kept the pressure on Port Sebastian as an Eloise Purinton penalty helped her side to a 2-0 win over Döllar.
SPL Kings Park 2–1 La Gorlions Port Sebastian 2–2 Port Patrick United Berwick United 3–2 New Belfast Warriors Lammerton 4–2 Dundee Granton Vale 1–3 Handon United Lammerton City 2–1 Oak Park Celtic D'Itille 3–2 New Belfast Blues Marionville 0–2 Cornellians FC Döllar 0–1 Port James Athletic FC Soessch 3–3 Hollin
There were yet more dropped points this weekend for Port Sebastian, as they were held at home by city rivals Port Patrick. The Breakers, in one of their best games of the season went 2-0 up against Porty in the opening 45 minutes. Cerys Kennicot found Paul Coine unmarked in the box to open the scoring against his old club, and former Hillstreet midfielder Kevin Morton doubled their lead not long after. Port Sebastian pulled level in the second half thanks to goals from Jack Baxter and Paul Doig, but it was too little, too late as the game finished 2-2. Cornellains look set to ensure that the title race goes right down to the wire as Kathryn Kvanderwyk and Mabel Finnemark helped them see off Marionville, who's surprise title challenge seems to be now all but over. That said, it has been a good season for the Old Boys, and one they can build on for next year. Handon United really needed to get themselves back on track, and they managed just that with a 3-1 win over Granton Vale. Jack Hobbs was on the score sheet for the Beachcombers, but goals from Isaac Nketiah, Christian Lovenkrands and Quinn McEnithly gave the 2016 champs comfortable win on the road.
SPL FC Soessch 3–5 Kings Park Hollin 1–0 FC Döllar Port James Athletic 3–1 Marionville Cornellians 4–3 D'Itille New Belfast Blues 2–0 Lammerton City Oak Park Celtic 2–4 Granton Vale Handon United 1–0 Lammerton Dundee 1–0 Berwick United New Belfast Warriors 5–2 Port Sebastian Port Patrick United 1–1 La Gorlions
Kings Park kept their outside chances of a return to the Globe Cup alive with a great attacking display against FC Soessch. If The Royals could keep things a little tighter at the other end then there is no doubt that the could be challenging at the top of the table, and that will be the challenge for next season. Another challenge will be keeping a hold of Corvid Alemane when her loan deal finishes at the end of the season, and the Nepharim wide-girl had a hand in Sendoa's opener today. Serge Mavididi won't score many more important goals than the one he scored against Lammerton this weekend. The Semarlandic striker's 57 minute header gave Handon United a narrow victory over their rivals, keeping them in with a good shout of a third place finish. And the poor run of Port Sebastian continued this weekend as New Belfast Warriors defeated them 5-2, at Ashley Road, in a result which hardly seemed possible six months ago. Ivan Archic is showing no signs of rust, and put in a five star performance with a double for The Whalers. There were also goals for Jenny Lundergrand, Craig O'Maramy, and Tomás Fierro. With their 4-3 win over D'Itille, Cornellians will now be feeling that their second title is within touching distance, as they have been able to hold firm right up until the end. Tsumugi Narita was the star of the show, playing in a slightly deeper role, the Kirisakian proving as always how important she is to this side.
SPL Kings Park 3–2 Port Patrick United La Gorlions 2–2 New Belfast Warriors Port Sebastian 5–1 Dundee Berwick United 0–1 Handon United Lammerton 2–0 Oak Park Celtic Granton Vale 2–2 New Belfast Blues Lammerton City 0–1 Cornellians D'Itille 1–1 Port James Athletic Marionville 1–0 Hollin FC Döllar 0–1 FC Soessch
It wasn't convincing by any means, but Stephen Gargo's header against Lammerton City put the title firmly in the side from Lochend's hands. Only now a total collapse would hand the lead back to Port Sebastian, who eased past Dundee 5-1. Despite the crushing victory it now looks likely that the championship trophy will be heading out of Handon and up the road to Lochend. With other results taken into account, Lammerton and Handon United moved a step closer to the other UICA spots. For the second week running United won by a single goal, this time it was Nik Konstidios who helped them past a Berwick side with little left to lose. And Lammerton never really got out of second gear as goals from Merry Osbourne and Timo Düd gave them a 2-0 win over Oakpark Celtic. In other results Bruno Schwartz gave Soessch a 1-0 win over Döllar. New Belfast Warriors and La Gorlions played on a 2-2 draw. And in a hotly contested match, a late Francis Keelinan penalty gave Kings Park a 3-2 win over Port Patrick United.
SPL FC Döllar 2–0 Kings Park FC Soessch 2–2 Marionville Hollin 2–1 D'Itille Port James Athletic 1–0 Lammerton City Cornellians 4–2 Granton Vale New Belfast Blues 3–3 Lammerton Oak Park Celtic 0–0 Berwick United Handon United 1–2 Port Sebastian Dundee 2–1 La Gorlions New Belfast Warriors 4–2 Port Patrick United
Handon United missed what was their last chance at second spot, going down 2-1 to Port Sebastian at home. Carl Sorensen will be left kicking himself, as his players simply squandered too many chances in a game they otherwise could have won. It was the Semar's fellow countryman Demba Traore who put United to the sword, with a goal on 74 minutes, leaving poor Jacrian Ryaden stranded, as he powered home from close range following a clever Emiline Millet pass. If Porty were hoping their derby win would be accompanied by a Cornellians slip up, then they were to be disappointed, as the Eagles now look like they are in a commanding position in first place. Triffid Ramsey, Damien Sturridge, and Kath Kvanderwyk (2) gave them an easy win over Granton Vale, who never really got going. Lammerton were unable to take advantage of United's defeat either, as they ended up drawing 3-3 with NBB away from home. Goals from David Millar, and Shu (2) meant that The Hornets were left with a nervy last three matches, to see if they could seal an impressive third spot.
SPL Kings Park 3–4 New Belfast Warriors Port Patrick United 3–3 Dundee La Gorlions 1–2 Handon United Port Sebastian 2–0 Oak Park Celtic Berwick United 0–3 New Belfast Blues Lammerton 5–5 Cornellians Granton Vale 1–0 Port James Athletic Lammerton City 1–2 Hollin D'Itille 1–3 FC Soessch Marionville 2–0 FC Döllar
Handon United closed in on third, and Port Sebastian were left with the faintest glimmer of hope this week, as Cornellians, and Lammerton played out a 5-5 draw. In this epic 10-goal-thriller, the lead changed hands several times producing a result, which in the end didn't really help either team. Port Sebastian move back within two points with a 2-0 win at Oak Park, Giancoma de Jerusalem, and Chiyoko Sakuraka scoring the goals, and Aya Bernman, and Devon Carranza-Jones gave United a 2-1 win at La Gorlions. Marionville made light work of FC Döllar, with goals from Michael Maxwell and Barry Stewart. Soessch had a Konstantin Holstad double to thank for a 3-1 win at D'Itille. And finally, a great performance from Upper Sunriser Jenny Lundergrand helped The Warriors to edge out Kings Park, in what will go down as a good result for Graeme Collins' boys and girls on the road.
SPL Marionville 1–2 Kings Park FC Döllar 1–6 D'Itille FC Soessch 1–0 Lammerton City Hollin 5–2 Granton Vale Port James Athletic 2–2 Lammerton Cornellians 9–1 Berwick United New Belfast Blues 4–4 Port Sebastian Oak Park Celtic 0–1 La Gorlions Handon United 1–0 Port Patrick United Dundee 0–2 New Belfast Warriors
Port Sebastian will be livid that their shock 4-4 draw with NBB has taken their chance to defend their title, at home, out of their hands. What is even worse, is that the neutrals have been denied one of the most exciting final day fixtures in Schottic football history. The Blues, who are finishing strongly, were actually unlucky not to win the game, as they were by far the better side; whereas Porty will have to go away and ask themselves what went wrong. There was no signs of any battle weariness in this Eagles side as they were crowned champions in style with a 9-1 win over Berwick, who will have been left shell shocked. Purinton scored two and Kvanderwyk scored a hattrick as Cornellians replicated the kind of form, reminiscent of their MPL days. Lammerton's 2-2 draw away to Port James meant that Handon United now have third place firmly in their sights. That said, if anyone had offered the Hornets a third 4th spot in a row at the start of the season they would have taken it. The side have managed to temper the loss of star striker John McCormack with the signing of Merry Osbourne while pocketing a 500k profit - all in all, good season. Handon United haven't scored a lot of goal this season, but by good fortune they haven't conceded many, and this stood them in good stead against Port Patrick. Bueno-Wells, Ninetyseventh and co. all held firm at the back, while an Alf Seggerson freekick was enough to earn the side victory.
SPL Kings Park 5–3 Dundee New Belfast Warriors 0–3 Handon United Port Patrick United 1–0 Oak Park Celtic La Gorlions 1–1 New Belfast Blues Port Sebastian 3–3 Cornellians Berwick United 0–1 Port James Athletic Lammerton 1–0 Hollin Granton Vale 2–3 FC Soessch Lammerton City 1–0 FC Döllar D'Itille 5–2 Marionville
There were no final match dramas to speak of really, with most of the final positions already decided going into the last round of fixtures. The public were of course denied their grandstand finish, and in the end Cornellians and Port Sebastian played out a 3-3 draw it what was a meaningless fixture. The Eagles actually threw away a 3-1 lead in this match, allowing their rivals to at least end on a high note, Joey Bia rifled in a shot from a tight angle late on, and Kaija Koppel pulled level deep in stoppage time. The result means that Cornellians and their Cosumarite manager Alexander Pearce make it two titles in three year, and their fan base will be hoping that this could be the start of an era of domination for the club. Handon United knew, they needed to win at New Belfast Warriors to seal third spot and they did just that, in one of their best results of the season. Esteke Inanuk opened the scoring with a shot from the edge of the box, before a Mirka Shitakuari pass found Serge Mavididi in space for the sides second. United put the icing on the cake when Christian Lovenkrand's long-range effort rebounded into the path of Mavididi for his second and the side's third. Reflecting on the season, United will know that failerour to take their chances up front, and perhaps an over reliance on Semarlandic duo, Mavididi and Nketiah, to come up with the goals will have cost them dearly in their search for a first title in six years. Lammerton on the other hand will be happy enough with fourth, if not a little disappointed to have let things slip so late on. There is a lot of hope for the Hornets however, and they seem to now have established themselves as one of the leagues top sides.
The best of the rest this season were The New Belfast Warriors, who overcame a monstrous start to the season, piping Marionville to fifth, as the Old Boys dropped away a little. The Warriors have next season to look forward to, and if they can start as strongly as they finished then a top four place is by no means out of their reach. At the bottom of the table, Oakpark Celtic finished where most people predicated they would, rock bottom, with a pathetic haul of nine points. Joining them in the regional leagues are Berwick United, Döllar, and somewhat surprisingly Lammerton City. Despite being a small club, City have been a permanent fixture in the top flight for a generation, and the Lammerton derby will definitely be a loss.
Monthly Awards:
Player: Konstantin Holstad -- FC Soessch The Polar Islander has been right at the heart of this side's revivals, and no doubt the turn around in form will have saved the manager's job. Holstad has been one of the leagues top players since joining eight years ago, and throughout all Soessch's ups and downs, he has been one of their more consistent performers.
Young Player: Jonny Birch -- Marionville Birch has really looked the part since stepping up from the reserves, and has proven himself to be a really good all-rounder. The youngster has definitely been one of the missing ingredients in this Marionville side, and their strong finish this season is partly down to his emergence.
Manager: Alexander Pearce -- Cornellians Conellians have kept a consistent pace going all season, and will feel, as the season reaches the end game, that their larger squad will give them the edge over some of the other sides.
Player: Erin Braden -- Kings Park Braden has been a real success story, in terms of the young players who have made the step up from women's football. A strong and powerful midfielder, she is now the player calling all the shots in the centre of the park. With the addition of Sendoa and Alemane, the 22-year-old now finds herself in the strange positon of being one of the elder stateswomen in the Kings Park side.
Young Player: Melanie Ünterhausen-- FC Soessch The teenager has played her socks off all season, really determined to prove what she can do in the SPL back at her girlhood heroes. Ünterhausen has been a permanent fixture in the Soessch side this term, and arguably their best striker.
Manager: Gary Stoot-- FC Soessch This award will be music to the Christopheran's ears, as at the half way point, he looked unlikely to hold on to his job. In a sense he had to get thing together at some point, however few would have thought it would have taken quite so long.
Player: Eloisa Purinton -- Cornellians The Gloriaxian skipper has been slamming them in for three seasons now, and has been rock solid in helping her side see out their second SPL title win. Sometimes you need to remind yourself that this girl is only 24, as it feels like she has been an integral part of this side for much longer
Young Player: Esther Abner -- Port Sebastian There were a few question marks over how the former Port Patrick youngster would make the step up to playing for title challengers Port Sebastian, but the 21-year-old has proven her doubters wrong. Seems to be getting forward to support the attack more and more, and this is something which had previously been mission from her game.
Manager: Carl Sorensen -- Handon United United haven't had the season many of us had predicted, but credit to them, when the chips were down, they did what it took to secure a UICA spot for the second year running.
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cornellians 38 25 5 8 94 54 +40 80 Champions' Cup 2 Port Sebastian 38 21 13 4 89 58 +31 76 Globe Cup 3 Handon United 38 22 8 8 52 29 +23 74 Globe Cup 4 Lammerton 38 21 10 7 74 52 +22 73 Globe Cup 5 New Belfast Warriors 38 20 7 11 78 61 +17 67 Cygnus Cup 6 Marionville 38 20 7 11 65 51 +14 67 7 Kings Park 38 20 6 12 83 69 +14 66 8 Port Patrick United 38 17 9 12 70 60 +10 60 9 Port James Athletic 38 17 8 13 49 48 +1 59 10 FC Soessch 38 15 10 13 65 64 +1 55 11 Hollin 38 14 12 12 47 42 +5 54 12 La Gorlions 38 14 10 14 44 46 −2 52 13 New Belfast Blues 38 13 9 16 60 66 −6 48 14 Dundee 38 11 10 17 44 61 −17 43 15 Granton Vale 38 12 7 19 57 76 −19 43 16 D'Itille 38 9 14 15 62 61 +1 41 17 FC Döllar 38 8 9 21 24 43 −19 33 Relegated 18 Lammerton City 38 7 11 20 19 38 −19 32 Relegated 19 Berwick United 38 5 5 28 32 85 −53 20 Relegated 20 Oak Park Celtic 38 1 6 31 11 55 −44 9 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: Alfred Seggerson -- Handon United Seggerson had one of his best season in maroon and white, even as Handon United stuttered at times. Never shy in the tackle, and a great passer of the ball, Seggerson has now been one of the club's most important players for more than a decade.
2nd: Ivan Archic -- New Belfast Warriors Even at 33, Archic is still a top striker, and the Nekylturnyn will no doubt go down as one of the best players to ever play grace the pitches of the SPL. He is about so much more than goals, and when his team needed him, he really dug deep this season.
3rd: Eloisa Purinton -- Cornellians Despite this being the first season that the Gloriaxian didn't finish top scorer in her three season in the SPL, it's hard to judge her too harshly. The absence of her nation from the World Cup cycles is a real shame, so for the time being the Schottic fans will have her goal scoring exploits all to their selves.
4th: Mars Alexandersson -- Lammerton The 20-year-old grows in stature with every game she plays, the youngest player on this list, and she has all the hallmarks of a future top class attacker. Whether it is linking up the Hornets attack, or going for goal herself, Alexandersson is one of the best in the league.
5th: Demba Traore -- Port Sebastian Although Traore is perhaps a player of lesser footballing ability, compared to the league's other young Semarlandic strikers, there is no denying his contribution. When it comes down to goal scoring ability, you've got to hand it to this guy, who batters his way through defences up and down the country. Traore's raw pace and power are essential the way Port Sebastian set up, and at the moment, no one really seems to have an answer to it.
=5th: 19 Estelle Conway -- Kings Park | Merry Osbourne -- Lammerton | Isaac Nketiah -- Handon United
8th: 16 Vojnomir Nikolic -- Marionville | 17 Paul Coine -- Port Patrick | Giancoma de Jerusalem -- Port Sebastian | John Cooper -- Lammerton
Young Player of The Year: 1st: Mars Alexandersson -- Lammerton See Player of the year Award.
2nd: Demba Traore -- Port Sebastian See Player of the year Award.
3rd: Isaac Nketiah -- Handon United Nketiah was part of Semarland's successful World Cup qualifying campaign, and has already proven himself on the international stage. A great player with the ball at his feet, he contribution cannot be questioned, as his performances this season illustrated. Strike partner Serge Mavididi and he, have recently signed permanent deals with the club, so fans will have much more to look forward to over the next few seasons.
4th: Kathryn Kvanderwyk -- Cornellians 22 goals in her breakthrough season for the 19-year-old, it is easy to see why Cornellians fans are calling Kathryn Kvanderwyk the next Eloisa Purinton. Boundless energy, and an old fashion, unselfish work ethic, the Cosumarite has been one of the league's most consistent performers, and thoroughly deserves her SLP winner's medal.
5th: Corvid Alemane -- Kings Park It's probably going to be hard for Kings Park to keep a hold of this Nepharim winger when her loan deal expires, but you'd imagine they'll do everything they can. She fits this attack-minded Royals side like a glove, and has been a good source of goals and assists this season - manger Eric Desmond should take a note on this.
Manger of The Year: 1st: Alexander Pearce -- Cornellians After their exit from the Globe Cup, and a slow start, their were suspicions that Cornellians were not quite the side we thought they were. We were wrong of course and they put some impressive results together as they marched to their second title in three years.
2nd: John Sedder -- Lammerton Sedder has turned the Hornets into one of the best sides in the league, who will have now finished fourth in the league three years running. Shrewd signings, and he has the side playing good attacking football.
3rd: Conner Watts -- Port Sebastian Port Sebastian lost their title, but it was always going to be a tall order for them to keep hold of it. Watts deserves some credit for putting up such a good fight, while improving the side at the same time. A few seasons ago they looked in danger of fading into irrelevance, suffering the same fate as some of the other big clubs, but instead they have made themselves part of a 'big-three' and they will be looking forward to UICA football again next season.
4th: Greame Collins -- New Belfast Warriors After some very good work with New Island two seasons ago, Collins got the chance he was looking for with a move to big hitters, The Warriors. After a disastrous start to the season, the former Handon United man took the helm and steered them from fourth bottom to very respectable fifth place finish, and a Schottic Cup victory, their best season in four years.
5th: Jock Sonny -- Dundee Jock Sonny is back, and after a frustrating couple of seasons for the veteran manager, he did what was asked of him and kept Dundee up. He will now be looking ahead to next season, and the oppertunity to slowly build some momentum with the South Schottia side.
Signing of The Year: This is awarded to the incoming player who made the biggest impact relative to price, profile, and reputation.
Jade Irwin -- La Gorlions Signed from Crisisbless United, free transfer Plucked from the mass of players who failed to make the cut in the Nepharim league (not that that's an insult), Irwin throve under management of Pascal Voitle, improving as an all round player. Although La Gorlions are not the a side well known for their silky football, the youngster will be a welcome addition as they try to keep pace with the top sides.
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.
GK == Jacrian Ryaden DF == Esther Abner - Markus Pfab - Nathaniel Bueno-Wells - Triffid Ramsey MF == Alfred Seggerson EulaRichard - Mars Alexandersson FW == Eloisa Purinton - Ivan Archic - Demba Traore
Schottic Cup -- Final
FC Soessch 1-2 New Belfast Warriors Goals: 46" Shearer; 12" Fierro, 81" Archic
New Belfast Warriors made it two Schottic Cup wins in two years as they edged out FC Soessch at the national stadium. For both sides it has been a long difficult season, and there was no hiding how important this final was to both sides. The Warriors are the team on the ascendency at the moment and that was obvious to see from the way they took the game to Soessch in the early stages. It didn't take long for the Whalers to break the deadlock, when young Cenian international Tomás Fierro was first to pounce on a loose ball, and drilled his eighth goal of the season in at the far corner.
Soessch did respond to this and put the Warriors under considerable pressure as the first half come to a close. Despite this it was the second half when the North Island side pulled level, when Melanie Ünterhausen squared a pass for the on rushing Johan Shearer, who blasted his strike high into the top of the net, leaving the keeper with no chance.
A fierce contest ensued, and in the end it took something special from Ivan Archic - so often the hero - to clinch the game for the team from New Belfast. The Nekulturnyn showed great vision to turn in Holly Addison's cross at the back post, from an impossible angle, to give his side the win.
Man of the match: Tomás Fierro
Regional Divisions - Second Tier In a bid to make football more sustainable in Schottia the second tier is split into four Regional Divisions. This was in an attempt to cut down travel time for fans and players, while giving a greater number of sides a chance at promotion. The champions of each league win promotion to the SPL, and the side finishing bottom is relegated to the Regional Conference. Other sides may be relegated too depending on which sides come down from the SPL, keeping the number of teams in each league at ten.
Division A -Greater Handon, Marionville, New Belfast, and New Scotland.
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Regional Development Side D 36 29 3 4 94 45 +49 90 2 New Island 36 18 9 9 71 53 +18 63 Promoted 3 Coldstream Farmers Union 36 19 5 12 68 48 +20 62 4 Snubbeack Rock 36 16 10 10 70 55 +15 58 5 Garvald 36 16 8 12 66 68 −2 56 6 New Town Thistle 36 15 5 16 58 55 +3 50 7 Stevenson Wonderers 36 13 6 17 51 54 −3 45 8 Arnahm 36 12 8 16 47 56 −9 44 9 Bolton Green 36 8 2 26 29 70 −41 26 10 Berwick Celtic 36 2 8 26 32 82 −50 14 Relegated
Series B Champions' Cup Play-offs
Semi-finals- Jena VB 2–5 Regional Development Side A Mucusia 1–0 Regional Development Side D
Third place play-off- Regional Development Side D 2–1 Jena VB
Final- Mucusia 2–2 Regional Development Side A (3–2 AET) Mucusia, Regional Development Side A, and Regional Development Side D Qualify for the Series B Champions' Cup
Youth Football - Junior Championship
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Handon United 30 24 3 3 77 32 +45 75 Champions 2 Regional Development Side A 30 21 6 3 60 22 +38 69 3 FC Soessch 30 20 5 5 61 33 +28 65 4 Regional Development Side C 30 18 8 4 62 24 +38 62 5 Regional Development Side B 30 18 7 5 65 40 +25 61 6 Port Sebastian 30 19 2 9 65 37 +28 59 7 Handon Ladies 30 17 6 7 57 29 +28 57 8 Dundee 30 9 5 16 37 50 −13 32 9 Marionville 30 7 10 13 46 71 −25 31 10 Regional Development Side D 30 7 7 16 39 65 −26 28 11 Kings Park 30 7 4 19 43 65 −22 25 12 Port James Athletic 30 6 7 17 35 61 −26 25 13 New Belfast Warriors 30 5 7 18 36 55 −19 22 14 Cornellians 30 6 4 20 36 66 −30 22 15 La Gorlions 30 5 7 18 30 63 −33 22 16 Lammerton 30 4 6 20 29 65 −36 18
Posted: Thu May 12, 2016 12:33 am
by Schottia
Schottic Premier League
2021-22
Preview -Part One-
Playing squads for the upcoming season, with provisional starting eleven, and notable reserves. Teams listed in no particular order.
------------------ Cornellians FC (formerly Cornellia) Stadium: Lochend Stadium, 80,000 Average attendance: 54,651 Manager: Alexander Pearce Colours: White and green shirts, white shorts. Location: Lochend (Greater Handon) Nick name: The Eagles ------------------
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GK. Jeremy McNott 26, RB. Santiago Lowe 31, LB. Triffid Ramsey 26, CB. Scott Burton 26, CB Stephan Gargo 23,
DM. Eula Richard 25, CM. Tsumugi Narita 19, CM. Casey Brind 34, AMC. Cosmin Dobrescu 29,
CF. Eloisa Purinton 25, (c) CF Kel Koromin 23,
---subs---
GK. David Prince 23, RB. Rachel Mercurier 21, LB. John Yardlee 25, CB. Gary Hamilton 27,
RM. Jeff Dennis 33, RM. Mark Freute 21, DM. Lucius Hirtius Carus 25, AMC. Mabel Finnemark 20,
In. RB. Rachel Mercurier 21, < Centre for Excellence. Free CF Kel Koromin 23, < Tir Snake Strike. $20M Out.
Alexander Pearce has a problem this season. A nice problem to be sure, but a problem nonetheless. After a deal involving the club's captain Eloisa Purinton fell through on deadline day, Cornellians now find themselves in the position of having a glut of good strikers. The U-turn, believed to the result of a change of heart, now means Pearce will start the season with the Gloriaxian skipper, $20m man Kel Koromin, and rising Cosumarite star Kathryn Kvanderwyk all on his books. With the Eagles two golden girls performing so well last season, Koromin will have a tough time breaking into the champions' line up, however, with the Cenian's obvious top-class talent, you wouldn't bet on it taking him long. Perhaps more straightforward is the midfield, which more or less picks itself after their performance last term. Deep-set playmaker Tsumugi Narita is the one who laces everything together, and the 19-year-old Kirisakian has been a key player for Pearce over the years. Playing along side her is cultured midfielder Casey Brind, who brings with her a lot of experience in the Nepharim Premiership. Suring things up in the holding role is Mesillian winger-turned-midfielder Eula Richard, who has adapted to the role incredibly well over the last 18 months. The quartet in the middle of the park is rounded of by Jedorian number-ten, Cosmin Dobrescu, who has been a faithful servant to the club since its foundation, and a source of many goals over the years. Part of Cornellians' success is the fact that they are strong in every department, and their defence is no different. Scott Burton is a fully-fledged Schottic international, while Triffid Ramsey has represented Iskandervale at the last two AOCAF tournaments, and Santiago Lowe has also been capped for Adiron. While Stephen Gargo is still yet to receive a senior cap for Cosumar, the 23-year-old has feature for the U-23s at the Emperor's Cup. With quite a narrow midfield unit, one of the main functions of the wing-backs in this side is to push forward and support the attack, something they both do very well. In goals for The Eagles is Schottia's current third choice keeper, and DBC-33 winner Jeremy McNott.
Prediction: 1st. Champions, and most likely runaway champions at that! Probably better in almost every department than the rest of the field, and with the strength and depth they have in attack, they have a distinct advantage over the other teams at the top.
Star player: Eloisa Purinton | Rising Star: Tsumugi Narita
International Competition: Champions' Cup
------------------ Handon Utd Stadium: Harbour Hill, 55,000 Average attendance: 51,373 Manager: Carl Sorensen Assistant: Karl Renardsen Colours: White and maroon with maroon shorts. Location: Handon Nick name: United ---------------------
Out. GK. Janne Mtiliga 18, > La Gorlions. Loan DM Marko Simonsen 32, > Jena. $150K GK Lucas D'Araby 36, > Lotus Park. $1.5M CF Nik Konstidios 25, > Newport Sirens. $2.2M
Another season has gone by and Handon United seem no closer to the Premier League title. It is now six years since the side last lifted the SPL trophy, an agonising wait for their fans, who have been used to much better times. Manager Carl Sorensen has overseen a lot of changes in his two seasons at the club, in a bid to stop the side's decline. Many of the old favourites have now made way, ushering in a new generation of stars. There have been two more high profile departures this season, with arguably the side's most influential players taking their bow. Schottia kepper Lucas D'Araby was the first to head to the exit door following the arrival of Cenian No. 1 Jacrian Ryaden - leaving to join up with Lotus Park in Brenencia. This was followed by the long awaited retirement of 37-year-old club captain Colin Donaldson hanging up his boots after twenty seasons with the club. Sorensen seems determined to work with what he's got as he looks for a way to fill this gigantic black hole, and promising young midfielder Devon Carranza-Jones, looks set to be handed a starting berth. The 23-year-old Semar will slot in along side Schottia international Alf Seggerson, in what will be a new look central pairing. United are particularly strong in the wide areas with 20-year-olds Christian Lovenkrands and Aya Bernman both capable of attacking with devastating pace. This season they are joined by Kirisakian wingback Mana Satō, who for all her defensive frailties, remains a force to be reckoned with going forward. Teenager Satō joins a back four of Esteke Inanuk, Tameka Ninetyseventh, and Nathaniel Bueno-Wells, who all looked very strong last season as the side only conceded a total of twenty-nine goals. Spearheading the attack, for the third year in a row now, are Semarlandic duo Isaac Nketiah and Serge Mavididi, who both have senior caps to their name, and have proven themselves to be a reliable source of goals.
Prediction: 2nd. It will be another hard result for the fans to take, but we don't see United quite catching the Eagles, not since the signing of Koromin.
Star Player: Alfred Seggerson | Rising Star: Serge Mavididi
International Competition: Globe Cup
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Port Sebastian Stadium: Dyerton, 30,000 Average attendance: 29,875 Manager: Conner Watts Colours: Light blue, with dark blue shorts Location: Handon Nick name: Porty, or the Steel men
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GK Chris Gonzaö 29,
RB Esther Abner 22, LB Paul Doig 24, CB Max Peterson 29, CB Sloane Kirkland 22,
CM Jack Baxter 36, (c) CM Emeline Millet 25, AMR Jonathan Bia 22, / Dahamy ML/C Chiyoko Sakuraka 22,
FC Giancoma de Jerusalem 29, ST Demba Traore 22,
---subs---
DM Louis Porter 27, CM Milo Mavor 24, FC Kaija Koppel 22, (Schottia)
---Youth players of note---
Andrya Novkovic 16, Anglatia
In. DM Louis Porter 27, Darvale < Hastmead Diamante. Free Out. CB Lara Silverstein 20, > Loan ended GK Harry Gould 22, > FC Soessch. $1M
It is a settled squad this season for Conner Watts, as Porty look to win back their title from the hands of Cornellians. The only change from the side which finished second last year is the loss of young centre-back Lara Silverstein, who returns to Nephara following the conclusion of her loan spell. The club have also picked up Darvale's Louis Patterson on a free, a player whom they may look to as a long term replacement for Jack Baxter. The club will once again look to star striker Demba Traore to come up with the goods up front. The striker netted an incredible 27 goals last season as he came out of nowhere to establish himself as one of the league's most feared attacking threats. Joining the young Semar in attack are Quebecois striker Giancoma de Jerusalem, and Schottic wing-forward Joey Bia, neither of whom are lacking in the goals department either. The real strength of this side, however, is at the heart of the midfield, with club captain Jack Baxter and Ko-oren internationalist Emiline Millet. The two are an excellent foil for one another, with Baxter's steadfast defending covering for Millet's forward runs. Bringing some much-needed technical stability to the side is Kirisakian left-winger Chiyoko Sakuraka. Plucked from the nation's +90 squad, the 22-year-old is important in providing the kind of deliveries Traore thrives on. Defensively, Port Sebastian are equally sound: U-21 caps, Esther Abner, and Paul Doig marshal the wingback positions, and the tried and tested Max Peterson plays in the centre, in front of Schottic No.2 Chris Gonzaö. The only change in personnel from last season is the inclusion of 21-year-old Sloane Kirkland, who fills in for Silverstein at centre-half.
Prediction: 4th. Might be a case of slipping back for the Steel Men, but we have said that before and look what happened then. They have a great side, but with a resurgent Warriors to cope with, there could be trouble.
Star Player: Emiline Millet | Rising Star: Joey Bia
International Competition: Globe Cup
------------------ Lammerton Stadium: Lammerton City Ground, 24,000 Average attendance: 23,688 Manager: John Sedder Colours: Yellow and Black shirt, black shorts Location: Lammerton Nick name: The Hornets ------------------
CM Timo Düd 28, CM Jasper Valaren 18, CM Robard Horvat 20, OM Mars Alexandersson 20,
CF Merry Osbourne 30, CF John Cooper 29, (c)
---subs--- CM Jeff Vance 34,
CF Nathan Clark 26,
In. CB Marcel Smith-Hammond 26, < Döllar. 350K CM Jasper Valaren 18, < 1860 Azoth. $4.5M Out.
Last season was probably the year that Lammerton graduated from surprise package, to real title contenders. It must be a pretty good time to be a Hornets fan, as John Sedder's boys and girls have managed to finish in the top four three seasons running now, improving all the time. Last season, the side rode out the loss of their talismanic striker John McCormack, and arguably got even better. Merry Osbourne, McCormack's direct replacement hit the ground running, as the Brenecian formed strong working partnership Schottain John Copper in attack. Playing just behind them is Western Sunrise wonderkid Mars Alexandersson, the 20-year-old who was utterly outstanding last year, and can produce the kind of quality delivery that the two natural strikers up front rely upon. Behind Alexandersson, Lammerton play a midfield of three, with the experienced Timo Düd, playing alongside Cosumarite DBC star Robard Horvat, and new $4.5M signing Jasper Valaren. Valaren who was part of a clearout at Azoth The Cenian side's loss is likely to be Lammerton's gain, as the 18-year-old has more than enough talent needed to be a success at this level. On the topic of new signings, Sedder has done another good bit of business in recruiting highly rated Semarlandic defender, Marcel Smith-Hammond who arrives from Döllar. The North Island side's surprise relegation paved the way for the $350K move. The 26-year-old slots in alongside the dependable trio of Owen Betler, Gray Fresue, and Paul Yarrow, with Tim Fines, as ever, in goals.
Prediction: 5th. It’s hard, because people keep betting against them, and keep being proved wrong. There is no doubting the fact that they could be a good outside bet for the title, but it's far more likely that they end up roughly about the same place as last year.
Star player: Mars Alexandersson | Rising Star: Jasper Valaren
International Competition: Globe Cup
------------------ New Belfast Warriors Stadium: Ashley Road, 22,000 Average attendance: 17,312 Manager: Graeme Collins Colours: Green and orange shirt, white shorts Location: New Belfast Nick name: The Whalers ---------------------
CM Holly Addison 25. CM Tomás Fierro 21, AML Adrienne O'Callahan 23, AMR Craig O'Maramy 26,
CF Ivan Archic 34, (c) ST Miki Kurugaya 20
---subs--- ST Jenny Lundergrand 22 CF Ian Willson 20,
In. LB Saskia Holden 22, < Bayern Phoenix. $2.5M Out. LB Tom Blantan 27, > Newport Sirens. Free
If New Belfast Warriors start this season they way they finished the last, then the other sides well need to be very careful indeed. After several years of struggling with consistency, following their title success, The Whalers seem to have finally found a leader in Graeme Collins. Under his stewardship the New Belfast side took the league by storm, going from being under threat of relegation eleven games in, to pushing for a Globe Cup spot by the end of the season. With all the makings of a great side already, the fans will be very optimistic following the signing of two relatively high profile stars. Kirisakian Miki Kurugaya, should combine well with veteran striker Ivan Archic, providing a physical, and imposing presence in the attack. The Warriors go with a traditional 4-4-2 formation, with Schottia midfielder Holly Addison, and up and coming Cenian star Tomás Fierro in the centre. Both players looked comfortable throughout the second half of last season, looking as good as any midfield in the country. On the flanks, there is plenty of pace in this side, with former Schottic DBC winner Craig O'Maramy, and the ever-dangerous Quebecois winger Adrienne O'Callahan. Collins has strengthened in defence, with the addition of Schottic U-21 star, left back Saskia Holden, completing a $2.5M move from Bayern Phoenix in Taeshan, after a five-year stint with the club. She joins former DBC teammate Victoria Schute, and the experienced central pairing of Kenny McDermot, and Giordi Dinara. In goals, as ever, is 36-year-old vice captain Keith Cumberton.
Prediction: 3rd. The Warriors are back! (Okay I know we've also said this before.) The 2018 champions had a great run-in towards the end of last season, and having taken efforts to improve their squad further, they will be up there challenging at the top.
Star Player: Ivan Archic | Rising Star: Tomás Fierro
International Competition: Cygnus Cup
------------------ FC Soesch Stadium: Gannon park, 38,000 Average attendance: 25,229 Manager: Gary Stoot Colours: Scarlet and Black stripes Location: Soessch Nick name: Die rote Teufel
-------------------
------------------- GK Harry Gould 22,
RB Ryan Stoner 32, LB Stav Nattermann 32, CB Robert Wessel 30 CB Chris Okywä 32,
CM Till Ümann 24, AMR Johan Shearer 23, AML Christopher Dickson 26, AMC Konstantin Holstad 29, (c)
CF. Sara Foucault 21, CF Bruno Schwartz 31,
---subs--- RB Mark Walker 29, LB/M Jan Ümann 22, AML Sam Buckley 33, CF Broad Dalehun 23,
In. CF. Sara Foucault 21, < Mucusia $1.2M Out.
Soessch are a side who really need a big improvement this time round. Up until two years ago they were one of the sides you could count on to be there or there abouts. However after one poor season they sacked long term boss Jurgen Peters and all hell seems to have now broken loose. New manager Gary Stoot kept his job last season by the skin of his teeth, and he has taken great pains to try and build the playing squad back up. This is a task which is becoming increasingly difficult given the continued lack of UICA football, which means it is getting harder and harder to attract a certain calibre of player. Die rote Teufel have lost Melanie Ünterhausen who was so important to them last season as a source of goals, as the 20-year-old returns to her parent club Arsenal de Releinthi. This has presented another problem, in that it was the young loanee - rather than the clubs more established striker Bruno Schwartz - who performed better last season, leaving a fourteen goal black hole to fill. The girl Stoot has deemed fit for the job of replacing her is tier-two goal machine Sara Foucault, who managed an impressive twenty-three goals in thirty-one starts last season, and has been touted for a while as an SPL standard player. The rest of the side remains unchanged, with a midfield of Shearer, Dickson, Holstad, and Ümann. Till Ümann, was the one time golden boy of Schottic football, however injuries and a subsequent dip in form have seen him slip of his development curve. Konstantin Holstad is arguably the star man in this side, or at least he should be on paper, however, the Polar Islander, like Ümann, has never quite found the form he is capable of over the last couple of seasons. Sadly for Soessch it is a similar story for DBC winner Chris Dickson, who has definitely looked lacklustre over the last twelve months. The one shining light in the midfield was Nepharim winger Johan Shearer, who along with Ünterhausen really helped drag their team out of the mire last season. On paper, the back four should be the strongest part of the side, with Schottia international Chris Okywä and Port Christopher's Moritz Wessel in the centre. Former Schottic U-21 keeper Harry Gould comes in from Port Sebastian in goals, and Stoot will have to hope the 22-year-old can make the step up to first team football.
Prediction: 7th. They should do better than last season, but it is going to be tough for Soessch to see a big upturn in the course of one season, given that the personnel is relatively unchanged.
Star Player: Johan Shearer | Rising Star: Sara Foucault
------------------ King's Park Stadium: Lochely Green, 14,000 Average attendance: 12,140 Manager: Eric Desmond (player-manager) Colours: Navy Blue shirt, white shorts. Location: Handon Nick name: The Royals ------------------
------------------
GK Cliff Smith 33,
RB Jack Gordon 34, LB Deigo Marr 31, CB Peter Gaunt 29, CB Richard Dachs 23,
CM Erin Braden 23, CM Sendoa 19, RM Yuiko Kasugano 18, AML Darren O'Brian 28,
CF Francis Keelinan 27, (c) CF Estelle Conway 20,
---subs---
CM Jake Halls 29,
In. RM Yuiko Kasugano 18,
Out. RM Corvid Alemane 22, > Creed United Loan ended
Kings Park have been one of the success stories of the new era in Schottic football, and after finishing second three years ago, have firmly established themselves as a top-third of the table side. There is no doubt going to be some difficulty this season, in adjusting to the loss of Corvid Alemane, after the Nepharim lonee was so effective last time round. However the side have brought in 18-year-old Kirisakian wide-girl Yuiko Kasugano, who they hope will do a turn. The side had great success last season with the strike force of Francis Keelinan and youth-academy graduate Estelle Conway, both of whom performed well together. One of the side's real strengths is in the midfield however, with the impressive Erin Braden in the centre alongside young Cenian, Sendoa. Kasugano will of course slot in on the right, as a direct replacement for Alemane, with Schottic internationalist Darren O'Brian on the left. The Royals' strength has always been in the attack, with defensive frailties often being their downfall. That said, the side have definitely unearthed future star in the form of 22-year-old centre-back Richard Dachs
Prediction: 9th. Kings Park are in that group of sides who could be at best challenging for second and third, or at worst clinging to the top half of the table. Where they finish is very much up in the air.
Star player: Erin Braden | Rising star: Estelle Conway
------------------ La Gorlions Stadium: Danu Parc, 16,000 Average attendance: 12,554 Manager: Pascal Voitle Colours: White and yellow shirt, white shorts. Location: La Gorla Nick name: The Lions Club sponsor: Burgunden Breuerie ------------------
------------------ GK. Janne Mtiliga 19,
RB Christy Snell 24, LB Juan Velente 20, CB Markus Pfab 26, CB Vinod Purteer 26,
CM Fredrick Houben 27, CM Jade Irwin 21, AMR Frank Samules 27, LF Billy Small 30,
SS Jago Avelione 35, (c) CF Davy Ellan 32,
---Youth players of note--- DM Mako Sekine 14,
In. GK. Janne Mtiliga 18, < Handon United. Loan Out.
Despite what we would all agree was a relatively good season for The Lions, they are undoubtedly slipping back. Seventh, eleventh, twelfth: are their last three league finishes, and while manager Pascal Voitle is still popular among the fans, he will be mindful of the fact that he needs to improve. The performances of a few of the side's younger stars - in particular Jade Irwin - glossed over the fact that the club have an aging strike force no longer quite up to the job. Jago Avelione, and Davy Ellan, 35 and 32 respectively, have been at the sharp end of this side for eight seasons now, and one can only ponder as to whether this now needs to change. They have good contrast in the midfield however, with Fredrick Houben a good foil for the wing forwards Billy Small and Frank Samuels who both like to support the front two. But the girl who makes them tick is 21-year-old Irwin. The Nepharim playmaker shocked us all last season, after being deemed not good enough by Crisisbless United, she really took the league by storm. One other piece of good news for the Lions is that their defence looks pretty sold, with Marcus Pfab, Vinod Purteer, Christy Snell, Christy Snell all up for a fight. What is more, the addition of keeper Janne Mtiliga on loan from United, gives them a potentially top class player between the sticks.
Prediction: 10th. Slight improvement, La Gorlions look like they are going to be a tough team to beat, especially at home.
Star player: Jade Irwin | Rising star: Juan Velente
------------------ Marionville Stadium: Allen Dixon Arena, 25,000 Average attendance: 18,611 Manager: Basil Bunton Colours: Grey and Black shirt and shorts Location: Marionville Nick name: The Old boys ------------------
----------------- GK Pearce Brice 31,
RB Oliver Scott 22, LB Jonas Pedersen 30 CB David Daller 29, (c) DC Artjom Järvinen 29, (Schottia)
CM Jonny Birch 21, CM Barry Stewart 30, AMR Jarred Clotterman 22, LM Alyssa Haight 19, ACM Vojnomir Nikolic 20,
CF Michael Maxwell 25,
---subs--- CM Scott Lewis 29, RLM. Larry Goodman 22,
In. LM Alyssa Haight 19, South Laithland < free
Marionville go into this season on the back of a very strong finish last time round, where they ended up in sixth place, only six points off the UICA spots. Despite constantly hanging around the top end of the table, The Old Boys always seem to miss out on the title race, which normally leaves them behind. That said, Marionville have one of their strongest sides in a very long time at the moment, and after narrowly missing out last time round, this might be their moment to shine. Basil Bunton's team line up with five in midfield, supporting loan striker Michael Maxwell, who has made a career out of being solid, without being spectacular. The real threat in attack is Pasagran youngster Vojnomir Nikolic, who has been the side's top goal scorer for the last two seasons. He plays in front of the robust central midfield duo of Barry Stewart and Jonny Birch, who take few risks, and even fewer prisoners. Down the right they have the speedy Jarred Clotterman - and on the left, new signing Alyssa Haight, who joins form the South Laithland youth system. In defence, club captain David Daller has Schottic caps to his name, and Jonas Pedersen, brings much experience from the Semarlandic league. Goalkeeper Pearce Brice is also very sold as the clubs last line of defence.
Prediction: 6th. It seems to be about their level at them moment, but a few places either way would also be reasonable.
Star Player: Barry Stewart | Rising Star: Vojnomir Nikolic
------------------ Port Patrick Stadium: Galloway Lane, 18,000 Average attendance: 12,673 Manager: Des Pleent Colours: White shirt and shorts, with dark green trim Location: Handon Nick name: The Breakers ------------------
RB, Markus Brent 33, LB, Robert Torry 26, CB Davy Keates 27, (c) CB Jake Dooner 35,
CM Connie Malone 20, CM Kevin Morton 33, RM Willie McIntyre 32, AML, Cerys Kennicot 24,
CF Jane Swanson 27, CF Paul Coine 33,
---subs--- CM Ross Skinner 30, CM Ruth Finch 19,
In. GK Altavian Kalhoro, 21 Sarribra West Gundar FC < free CM Connie Malone, 20 Maximum Rovers < free Out.
Port Partrick, since winning the Regional Divisions title three years ago, have taken the SPL by storm. Sixth place two year ago and eighth last year; they have been the exception to the rule that the newly promoted teams generally struggle in the top tier of Schottic football. They have had to cope with the loss of star striker Heron Crew, and right back Esther Abner, but they have done so admirably, bringing in inexpensive players, who represent round pegs for round holes. The experienced strike force of Jane Swanson, and veteran Schottic international Paul Coine has served them well, and their is no sign that that is going to change this season. In midfield they have a good blend of youth and experience, with former Cornellians winger, Willy McIntyre, and Big Kev Morton, playing along side Schottia winger Cerys Kennicot and new signing Connie Malone. Malone, who will have been desperately disappointed to have been cut loose from Rovers just as she hits her twenties, is definitely of the same mould as many of the other players in this side. Port Patrick's star defender has been former Handon United academy graduate Davy Keates. The big centre back has put in some very strong performances for his club since they landed in the SPL.
Prediction: 8th. Probably no reason why The Breakers can't finish strongly once more. They have real quality in their ranks.
Star Player: Cerys Kennicot | Rising star: Connie Malone
Posted: Thu May 12, 2016 5:40 am
by Schottia
-Part Two-
------------------ Port James Athletic Stadium: City of Port James Stadium, 32,000 Average attendance: 26,471 Manager: Karla Blackett Colours: Purple shirt and shorts. Location: Port James Nick name: The Seasiders ------------------
------------------ GK Jack Ruver 32,
RB Carl Mujica 25, Audioslavia LB Jim Tanner 31, CB Nathan McDonald 32, CB Tomoaki Neyama 23,
CM Willie Erskin 29, CM Palle Ellsmere 23, AMR Joseph Preca 27, Eusebian Islands (c) AML Ismal Keirut 25,
CF Dahrla Bhosz 32, CF Remaine Clarke 23, ---subs--- CM Alan Pertson 24,
In.
Under the management of Karla Blackett, Port James Athletic are slowly seeing their results improve, and after a poor start to life in the UICA era of Schottic football, they managed ninth place last season. While this is far from the same standard as the Athletic side of nine or ten years ago, it is definitely a step in the right direction for the Seasiders. The starting eleven form last season is unlikely to be altered much, with experienced Deadoran Dahrla Bhosz, and 23-year-old Semar Remaine Clarke in the attack. In the midfield, the team rely heavily upon team captain Joseph Preca. The Eusebian has really matured into a cultured right sided player, producing excellent deliveries week in week out. Another standout player for them last season was Palle Ellsmere, the young Polaaskan who previously excelled in a spell at Hollin. The player has heped to inject some grit into the team since his arrival. At they back they have standout Audioslavian wingback Carl Mujica, and behind him is arguably one of the best keepers in the league, Jack Ruver.
Prediction: 11th. Defiantly somewhere around the middle of the table, a good run could easily see them creeping into the top half.
Star Player: Joseph Preca | Rising Star: Palle Ellsmere
------------------ D'Itille Stadium: Belvour parc, 7,000 Average attendance: 4,269 Manager: Liam Seawel Colours: Green and white shirt, white shorts Location: Annacey Nick name: Annacien ------------------
------------------ GK Gary Thornly 37,
RB Ellian Larraux 30, LB Luke Corsby 24, CB Duncan Harris 31, CB Marius Pujuneb 28,
DM John Scooner 31, CM Abbus Atamei 28, (c) MR Dardan Baris 22, ML Ewan Swain 29,
CF Callum Frir 28, CF Lucas Yashvil 26,
---subs--- CM Bruce Kewt 31,
In.
D'Itille had to struggle last season, reeling from the loss of their most talented youngster Caitlin L'Attue. That said, they handled things admirably, fighting hard to finish clear of the relegation zone. The Lime Greens come from one of the smallest counties in Schottia, and therefore, they have always found resources thin on the ground. Callum Frir, a title winner as a young man, with New Belfast Warriors, has been an important source of goals for the club, and has slotted in well next to fans favourite Lucas Yashvil. The midfield has a solid anchor in the form of John Scooner and captain Abbus Atamei, the former having joined from Blue Coast in Port Christopher. Ewan Swain and the young Dardan Baris occupy the right and left wing positions. Defence is perhaps where the side are weakest, with Duncan Harris the only real defender of note, the 31-year-old has been capped by his nation at U-21 level.
Prediction: 18th. This could be the end of D'Itille's SPL stay, after seven years in the top division.
Star Player: Callum Frir | Rising Star: Dardan Baris
------------------ New Belfast Blues Stadium: Straks Park, 15,000 Average attendance: 11,000 Manager: Nail Leeten Colours: Blue and white shirt, white shorts Location: New Belfast Nick name: The Blues ------------------
------------------
GK Jim Black 24, (c)
RB Nicolas Slone 31, LB Louise Marshall 25, CB Ross Hardcoart 30, CB Peter Jnist 30,
CM Aleksander Heino-Watanabe 19, CM Gerhart Bitter 28, MR Sam Saxon 23, ML James Trusen 29,
CF David Millar 30, CF Shu 20,
---subs---
CF Chris Strivin 31,
In.
New Belfast Blues are one of those side which are just part of the furniture, without really ever doing anything spectacular. They always have the problem of being seen as the less glamorous alternative for the city fans, with the Warriors playing just around the corner. Despite their constant struggle, they always manage to put in decent showing, and are the quintessential mid-table side. Never higher than 10th never lower than 16th, they somehow always manage to hang around, no matter how unlikely it seems. As one would imagine, The Blues go into this season with a good squad, but not a special one. Daineri striker Shu, and former Port James striker David Millar lead the attack; two good solid centre forwards, the pair of them are fairly dependable. NBB are probably strongest, however, in the centre of midfield, with former Soessch man, and Schottic U-23 internationalist Gerhart Bitter, playing along side home grown talent Aleksander Heino-Watanabe, who despite having a name that is a bit of a mouthful, has been one of the team's stand out players over the last two seasons. The side's other player to watch, and possibly their prize asset is 24-year-old keeper Jim Black, who has been capped for his country in a B-international.
Prediction: 15th. It isn't going to be an easy season for them, but we have seen the Blues stay up with far worse squads before.
Star player: Jim Black | Rising star: Aleksander Heino-Watanabe
------------------ Granton Vale Stadium: Sea Park, 13,000 Average attendance: 8,469 Manager: Dan Brown Colours: Grey shirt, grey shorts. Location: Granton Nick name: The Beachcombers ------------------
------------------
GK. Krista Till 22,
RB John Steel 34, LB Dave Cranshaws 29, CB Tygo Pasha 18, Eastfield Lodge CB Norman Norkin 23
RM Will Rybka 28, L/CM Scott Cooper 29, CM Kris Scott 30, CM Tommy Wilson 33, (c) CM Arron Marcie 32,
CF Jack Hobbs 21,
---subs---
LM Anna White 21,
In. CM Arron Marcie 31, < Lammerton 380K
Granton Vale are now going into their fourth season in the top flight, with arguably their best squad to date. In the past there have been suggestions that the side would use any means to stay up, just parking the bus and employing anti football tactics. Taking a look at the current squad however, this might not be entirely true. While the side do have their bruisers, such Tommy Wilson and John Steel, there are also plenty of more subtle players in their ranks. Striker Jack Hobbs has been capped for Schottia at U-15, 18, and 21 level, and while he is yet to really make a mark, he still has enough about him to shine in the SPL. Arron Marcie rejoins the club after four seasons with Lammerton, and they will be hoping it is a fruitful reunion with the player who was so instrumental in helping them achieve promotion. Alongside Wilson in the midfield four are; another former Lammerton star Kris Scott, Scott Cooper who played with Cornellians in the MPL, and long time fans favourite Will Rybka. The back four has been, in the past, where The Beachcombers have experienced problems. This season they will hope that the introduction of Eastfeild Lodge teenager Tygo Pasha can help to sure things up, alongside talented 95X keeper Krista Till, who has been one of the side's most consistent players.
Prediction: 12. This looks like on of the South Schottic side's best teams in years. They should be able to push on and have a good season.
Star Player: Arron Marcie | Rising Star: Jack Hobbs
------------------ Handon North Stadium: Beachwood Stadium, 7,000 Average attendance: 3,365 Manager: Rodger Green Colours: Red and white shirt, white shorts Location: Handon Nick name: The Scholars ------------------
------------------
GK Jack Thompson 23,
RB Clarabelle Graham 23, LB John Stopper 31, CB Seth Gritt 33, CB Michael Jenson 24,
RM Scott Reno 25, LM Bruno Gatling 21, CM Danielle Hitchcock 23, AMC Evangeline Querón 24,
CF Flipp West 27, CF David Carter 20,
---subs---
In. LM Bruno Gatling 21, < APX Centre of Excellence. Free
Very few people, including those involved with the club itself, would have expected Handon North to get promoted last season. However, the Scholars managed to earn promotion from the very competitive Regional Division A, becoming the fifth Handon club (sixth if you count Granton) in the SPL. With the side's transfer budget, it has been a hard task for them to improve their squad to SPL standards, left-winger Bruno Gatling the only notable inclusion, joining from the now defunct Centre of Excellence in Apox. Over the last two or three seasons, Evangeline Querón has been their one quality player in the second tier, helping them punch above their weight. Although the 24-year-old has been linked with a couple of top flight clubs, it remains to be seen whether she has what it takes to keep her side up single handed.
Prediction: 20th. Few pundits out there will be predicting anything other than the wooden spoon for this side, who will really need to dig deep.
Star Player: Evangeline Querón | Rising Star: Bruno Gatling
------------------ Hollin Stadium: Belker Stadium, 10,600 Average attendance: 10,139 Manager: Jack Hosker Colours: Red, white and blue Location: Linellie Nick name: The Belker boys ------------------
------------------ GK Varry Coen 27,
RB Derek Loya 28, LB Robert Morris 29, CB Praxil Glasspool 24, CB Baxter James 33,
CM Neil Brown 21, CM Stephen McAlly 32, AMR Chris Jack 27, (c) AML Alistair Carlyle 29,
CF Fred Dawson 24, CF Alan Doolan 32,
---sub--- CF Beet Timons 29,
In. CB Praxil Glasspool 24, < IFK Aldenskoett. free Out.
Hollin, and their legions of hugely passionate fans, have been struggling to live up to their own high standard lately. The side from Belker have never quite adjusted to the loss of Thio Crillin, or the changes to financial restrictions, which have seen the larger clubs able to bring in far more foreign players. Despite all this, Hollin remain a competitive side, and a very good outside bet for a top half place. With former Kings Park man Alan Doolan, and DBC winner Fred Dawson up front, they have a forward line that they know will get them goals. Furthermore, Schottic cap Chris Jack on the right wing can come up with the goods in the centre of the park. Hollin have on occasion been a little weak at the back, so they will be looking to new signing, Cosumarite Praxil Glasspool, to try and sure things up a little.
Prediction: 13th. You would imagine Hollin will end up in about the same position they finished last season.
Star player: Chris Jack | Rising Star: Neil Brown
------------------ Mucusia Stadium: The Pllier Ground, 11,000 Average attendance: 7,766 Manager: Lilly Kitman Colours: Sky blue, orange, and green Location: Port James Nick name: The Eusebians ------------------
------------------
Mike Hare 32,
RB Stefan Tobiasz 20, LB Thomas Rodgers 24, CB Luke Boldman 26, CB Poppy Fayrkirk 21, (C)
DM CM Gavin Richardson 29, CM Laura Smith 23, CM Natalie "Envy" Adams 18, AMC Ryuni 22,
CF Flora Klee 20, CF Aimée Hétu 18,
In. CF Flora Klee 20, < Lammerton City. 400K AMC Ryuni 22, CM Natalie "Envy" Adams 18, Academy of Ecxelence < free CF Aimée Hétu 18, < free
Out. CF. Sara Foucault 21, > FC Soessch $1.2M
There has been a huge amount of excitement around this side for a number of seasons now with a great number of neutrals disappointed to see them miss out of promotion last time round. Only established eight years ago, Lilly Kitman's Mucusia side have risen steadily up the lower regional conferences, reaching the second tier four years ago. The club, who borrow their name from the old Maltese word for the region in which Port James is situated were set up as a fans' co-operative movement, which has since gained a lot of traction. Now with a large following behind them, Mucusia's growth has directly mirrored their city rivals' (Athletic) decline. Many players in the team, such as Luke Boldman, Mike Hare, and Gavin Richardson have been with the club since its inception and in some regards are more like board members than players. Kitman's side play a fast paced free-flowing football, and it will be interesting to see how it bares up against some stiffer opposition. The side will be disappointed to have lost star striker Sara Foucault, capped at U-21 level, who has left to join Soessch for $1.2M. As a replacement they have bolstered their attack with the signing of Pasargan teenager Aimée Hétu and the highly rated Flora Klee, who joins for a club record fee from relegated Lammerton City. Joining Gavin Richardson and Laura Smith in the midfield are Central Sunriser Natalie Adams, and Daineri playmaker Ryuni who has caused quite a stir since joining the club. At the heart of the Mucusian defence is young captain Poppy Fayrkirk, who stood out last season with her defensive heroics.
Prediction: 14th. A good debut season is very likely; the only danger is that inexperience could be their undoing.
Star player: Poppy Fayrkirk | Rising star: Natalie "Envy" Adams
-------------------------- Dundee Stadium: Granier Road Park, 11,000 Average attendance: 6,877 Manager: Jock Sonny Colours: Navy blue shirt, white shorts Location: Dundee Nick name: The Panners ----------------------------------
--------------------------------- GK Johnny Smith 36,
RB James Berkeley 29, (c) LB Liam Goncalves 17, CB Kevin Scougle 24, CB Keith Paul 30,
CM Vera Cummings 22, CM Gustav Fandrich 28, AMR Barry Drite 25, AML Steven Rexmont 18,
CF Jacques 22, CF Davy Galmore 27,
---subs--- AML Jake Swain 18, CF David Hughes 20,
In. AML Jake Swain 18, < Handon United. Free
CF David Hughes 20, < Handon United. Free
Jock Sonny seems to be back, and he is taking Dundee with him. After the shock of being sacked by former charges The Warriors, the former DBC winning manager has gone on help The Panners stay up in their first season back in the SPL. Dundee battled very hard last season, and proved to us all that they are no pushovers, but all the same, they say the second season is always the hardest. Keeping a hold of up and coming star Liam Goncalves has been massive for the club who rely heavily upon the Christopheran both in defence and attack. Up front long time fans' favourite Davy Galmore lines up alongside Christopheran Jacques, who is yet to really show us what he can do at this level. The central midfield of Gustav Fandrich and young Vera Cummings is solid if not a little one dimensional, however it should do a job. The real player to watch in this squad however is 18-year-old Steven Rexmont, who scored a bucket-load in the reserves last season from the left wing. This side's real strength lies in the defences however, with Darvale's James Berkeley playing alongside Goncalves, and former U-21 cap Kevin Scougle.
Prediction: 16th. Avoiding the bottom four is going to be hard for Dundee, but with a manager like Sonny, you never know.
Star Player: Liam Goncalves | Rising star: Steven Rexmont
------------------ Jena VB Stadium: Lloyd Stadium, 7,200 Average attendance: 6,518 Manager: David Quale Colours: Red and black shirt, red shorts Location: Jena Nick name: The Mountaineers --------------------
--------------------
GK Chris Poole 29,
RB Dawn Aurbroue 22, LB Jan Qerpf 28, CB Felix Harler 33 CB Viktor Thompson 25,
DM Marko Simonsen 32, CM Kurt Hierholzer 20, RM Robyn Yamazaki 17, LM Jay Clayton 22,
CF James Tegg 20, CF Marion Scherzer 32, (C)
In. CF Marion Scherzer 32, < Cranequin City. Free DM Marko Simonsen 32, < Handon United. $150K CM Kurt Hierholzer 20, < Döllar. $600K Out.
The very deserved Regional Division C champions Jena will be keen to show the SPL what they are made out of. There is no one pretending that this year is going to be easy for the club from the small mountain town, but they have made a couple of shrewd signings which might just be enough to somehow keep them afloat... maybe. Up front it is a combination of old and new, with homegrown talent James Tegg pitched in alongside Nepharim veteran Marion Scherzer, who joins from Cranequin City. The clubs two new signings Marko Simonsen, and Kurt Hierholzer should be a good combination, with the Semar Simonsen in particular, more than capable of running the show in the midfield. In defence Jena rely upon Felix Harler, a journeyman centre back, to get them out of a few tight spots.
Prediction: 19th. They'll give it a good shot no doubt, but taking one or two of their new signings out of the equation, Jena really don't have the squad to stay up.
Star player: Marko Simonsen | Rising star: Kurt Hierholzer
------------------ New Island Stadium: The Rock Ground, 13,000 Average attendance: 6,348 Manager: Judy Scott Colours: Black and gold top, black shorts Location: South Berwick Nick name: The Auks ------------------
------------------
GK. Malcolm Ferguson 36,
RB Vincent Harricot 32, LB Liam Sleas 32, CB Andy Berry 34, CB Ian Brent 27,
RM Xander Cross 31, AML Wendy Gehnt 20, DM Dave Urquart 28, CM Nikita Clohessy 32, (C)
CF Kennick Finlay 36, CF Kevin McCrorry 31,
It must have been a frustrating season for New Island after they were unspeakably relegated two seasons ago. The Auks are back however, albeit with a new manager, but with that same gritty, hard to beat squad of players. Judy Scott, the woman who led Schottia to the victory at the recent U-15 world championships comes in as boss, replacing the very successful Graeme Collins who moved to The Warriors half way through last season. New Island have a wonderfully experienced strike force with Kennick Finlay and Kevin McCrorry, a match for most defences on their day. In the midfield club captain Nikita Clohessy and winger Xander Cross are the players the club will look to when they want to produce something special, and the duo indeed put in a good display last season in the regional divisions. 36-year-old keeper Malcolm Ferguson is a giant in front of the goal mouth and a reliable pair of hands when called upon.
Prediction: 17th. It could be an equally frustrating season for New Island, with many of the teams around them in much better shape financially.
Star player: Nikita Clohessy | Rising star: Wendy Gehnt
With the sun going down on a 20 year career in the Handon United first team, Colin Donaldson was rejoined by some familiar faces as the club said farewell to him in style. The testimonial, played in front of a packed Harbour Hill Stadium pitted Donaldson's select XI against that of Semarlandic manager Carl Sorensen's. In the end, the match finished 4-3, with Semar Marc Lygaard scoring the winning goal for Sorensen's side.
Champions Cup -- Prelim Round Cornellians 2–0 Monarchs (SCV)
The fairytale for surprise Schiavone LigAnaia champions, the Monarchs, looked like it might be coming to an end this week. Cornellians no doubt entered this match with a degree of trepidation, but a strong, professional performance from Alexander Pearce's side gave them a comfortable 2-0 win. Eloisa Purinton was once again the hero on the night with a double either side of half time, to give the Eagles a lead to defend in the return leg in Schiavonia. Another point of excitement for the home fans was the figure of Kel Koromin, sat in the crowd following his recent $20m transfer.
Globe Cup -- Prelim Round Lammerton 1–1 Hellinic Rouge (PAS) (PLS) Novaya Mollen 3–1 Handon United
In the Globe cup there were mixed fortunes for the Schottic sides. Lammerton earned a 1-1 draw with Pasargan side Hellinic Rouge, but they will be well aware that the return leg in Rushmore will be a tricky affair, made all the harder having conceded an away goal. Handon United, on the other hand, will know exactly what is expected of them as they look to somehow overturn a 3-1 defeat when they play Novaya Mollen in Polaaskan. United were utterly overrun by a side they perhaps underestimated, and will now have to pray that Serge Mavididi's late consolation goal will give them a slither of hope.
SPL La Gorlions 0–2 New Belfast Warriors Cornellians 1–1 New Belfast Blues Jena VB 0–1 Kings Park Dundee 0–1 Lammerton Hollin 1–3 FC Soessch New Island 0–1 Port Patrick United Port Sebastian 1–1 Handon North Handon United 3–0 Granton Vale Mucusia 3–2 D'Itille Marionville 3–4 Port James Athletic
It was a day of strange results as the SPL season kicked of this weekend with only Handon United and Lammerton recording positive results out of the title chasing teams. Carl Sorensen's United recorded a resounding 3-0 win over Granton Vale. Debut girl Mana Satō put in a good performance down the right, with The Beachcombers rarely getting forward to put the Kirisakian wide girl under pressure. Handon Untied opened the scoring after only seven minutes, when Christian Lovenkrands burst past John Steel, whipping the ball across for countryman Serge Mavididi to tuck it away. United doubled their lead shortly before half time, when Devon Carranza-Jones cracked a shot in from the edge of the box. The capital side rounded things off fifteen minutes from the end when debut girl Satō crossed the ball in from deep for substitute Quinn McEnithly to score a rare goal. Things were a lot more difficult for Lammerton who met a very strong challenge from Jock Sonny's Dundee. New teen sensation Steven Rexmont was a constant threat to the Hornets in this match, with the left-winger showing the home fans exactly what they have to look forward to. Lammerton were too strong in the end, however, and a through ball from new signing Jasper Valaren set up John Cooper who scored the game's only goal, with a typical striker's finish. Cornellians' $20M man Kel Koromin came on for the last ten minutes as his side endured a frustrating afternoon at Lochend stadium. Although Tsumugi gave the champions the lead on the stroke of half time, her side were unable to stamp their authority on the match and NBB eventually pulled level with a David Millar goal twenty minutes from the end. Elsewhere The Warriors continued their good run of form with a 2-0 win over La Gorlions, Miki Kurugaya, and Adrienne O'Callahan grabbing the goals. FC Soessch also made a good start with a 3-1 win over Hollin, and Mucusia seemed to adjust to SPL life pretty well, recording a 3-2 win over D'Itille.
Champions Cup -- Prelim Round (SCV) Monarchs 0-0 Cornellians
It wasn't a particularly enthralling match, but Cornellians got the job done, keeping a clean sheet as they marched into the next round of the Champions' Cup. The Eagles set up not to lose, and that was a telling factor, as they successfully denied the Monarchs time and space on the ball. So far so good, but there will certainly be stiffer challenges lying in wait for the SPL Champs.
Globe Cup -- Prelim Round (PAS) Hellinic Rouge 1-1 Lammerton (3-4 pen) Handon United 4-0 Novaya Mollen (PLS)
There would have been a few Schottic fans going to bed pleasantly surprised after both Lammerton and Handon United made it through to the next round of the Globe Cup. How United pulled off the great escape we will never know, but as bad as they were in Handon, they were even better in Polaaskan. Sorensen's side had Christian Lovenkrands to thank in particular, the Semar scored one and set up two, as a much more polished looking United progressed. Lammerton are through as well after taking their tie to penalties. Jasper Valaren capped an incredible week, as the 18-year-old Cenian scored the winning spot kick.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 3–2 Port James Athletic D'Itille 2–5 Marionville Granton Vale 3–0 Mucusia Handon North 0–3 Handon United Port Patrick United 2–4 Port Sebastian FC Soessch 0–0 New Island Lammerton 4–3 Hollin Kings Park 3–4 Dundee New Belfast Blues 4–2 Jena VB La Gorlions 1–3 Cornellians
Handon United recorded their second back-to-back 3-0 win, this time over Handon North, in what will be one of numerous Handon derbies this season. There was only really ever one side in the game, and United opened up a two-goal lead early on courtesy of a Nketiah double. United pushed their city rivals hard and got the killer third in the second half when a Satō cross landed on the head of substitute Mirka Shitakuari, who turned in her first goal of the season. Cornellians got over their over their early blip, with a well-deserved 3-1 victory over La Gorlions at Danu Parc. The Lions took the lead in this match, when a Jade Irvin pass left the Eagles defence flat-footed, allowing Jago Avelione to give his side the lead. The reigning champions rolled their sleeves up though and equalised soon after with a powerful drive from left-back Triffid Ramsey. Cornellians then took the lead through Kathryn Kvanderwyk after the Cosumarite was set up by strike partner Eloisa Purinton. The result was rubber-stamped fifteen minutes from time, when Kel Koromin grabbed his first goal for the club, rising well to head home a Mabel Finnemark corner. New Belfast Warriors made it two wins out of two this week, as they shape for the title fight. Kirisakian striker Miki Kurugaya made it two in two also, as she put the Whalers in front early on. Athletic pulled level twice in the match with goals from Remaine Clarke and Joseph Preca, but Ivan Archic and Tomás Fierro were also on target for the home side to give boss Graeme Collins a strong start to the season. Like Cornellians, Port Sebastian got back to winning ways, as one of the title favourites earned an impressive 4-2 win at Port Patrick. A Giancoma de Jerusalem double, along with goals from Demba Traore and Jonathan Bia meant that Porty ran out deserved winners. Elsewhere a Merry Osbourne double helped Lammerton to a 4-3 win over Hollin, Gustav Fandrich and Jacques were among the goals as Dundee overcame Kings Park, and Jack Hobbs was man of the match for Granton, as they beat newly promoted Mucusia 3-0.
Champions Cup -- Second prelim Round (CPV) Madruguinha Buneco Clube 1–3 Cornellians
Cornellians will have been a little unsure what to expect as they travelled to the Capivara Group to face Madruguinha Buneco Clube. Thankfully however, the Eagles were more than up to the test, recording a 3-1 win on the road. Goals from Kel Koromin (2) and Kathryn Kvanderwyk gave the side the win, in a very strong performance for the Schottic champions. With three away goals, they knew that things would have been made much easier in the return leg.
Globe Cup -- Second prelim Round Port Sebastian 1–1 Tir Snake Strike (CEN) Lammerton 2–1 Corinthian Spirits (STB) (OSR) Utica United 2–3 Handon United
There were three decent results for Schottia's Globe Cup sides, as they looked to get the upper hand in their respective ties. Port Sebastian will have been slightly disappointed with their 1-1 draw at home to Tir Snake Strike, as the match in Ceni is likely to now be a struggle. That said, Porty looked pretty good against a side from a higher ranked league, and they are still very much in this. Lammerton faired slightly better against Starblaydi side Corinthian Spirits. The Hornets, who have been playing well this season, can take a 2-1 lead with them back to the famous sporting nation, thanks to goals from Merry Osbourne and John Cooper. Handon United perhaps surprised a few people with their 3-2 win in Osarius over Utica United. In what was a good performance from the strikers in particular, United showed just how much they relish these big nights in the UICA competitions.
SPL Cornellians 2–1 New Belfast Warriors Jena VB 0–2 La Gorlions Dundee 1–0 New Belfast Blues Hollin 1–0 Kings Park New Island 0–1 Lammerton Port Sebastian 2–1 FC Soessch Handon United 2–3 Port Patrick United Mucusia 1–0 Handon North Marionville 2–2 Granton Vale Port James Athletic 1–0 D'Itille
It might have been early doors, but in the grander scheme of the title race, Cornellians' 2-1 win at home to New Belfast Warriors is an important one. Kel Koromin broke the deadlock 30 minutes in, thanks to a Cosmin Dobrescu assist in his first start for the club, before captain Eloisa Purinton doubled their lead at the start of the second half from the penalty spot, after Saskia Holden had brought down Casey Brind. The Warriors pulled one back in the second half through a Craig O'Maramy strike, after Jenny Lundergrand played him through on goal. His goal was not enough however, and The Eagles were able to ride out their second win on the bounce. Lammerton made it three wins out of three, as they showed no signs of slowing down. A Mars Alexandersson strike form the edge of the D was enough to help the Hornets get the better of a resilient New Island at The Rock Ground, in an otherwise tight match. Port Sebastian also held off a stiff challenge, this time from a resurgent FC Soessch. The champions of two years ago went behind to a Sara Foucault goal at the end of the first half, but Porty stuck to the task and got themselves back into the game with a Demba Traore pile driver on the hour-mark. The home side settled things five minutes from time when Chiyoko Sakuraka turned her marker to deliver a fantastic ball for Kaija Koppel to hit home. In other results: Handon United saw their perfect start to the season go up in flames, as a late Cerys Kennicot goal gave Port Patrick a valuable away win. Steven Rexmont was on target as Dundee defeated The Blues - And finally Pasargan teenager Aimée Hétu's goal helped Mucusia past fellow newcomers Jena.
Champions Cup -- Second prelim Round Cornellians 0-1 Madruguinha Buneco Clube (CPV)
It wasn't quite the performance the fans packing out Lochend Stadium would have been hoping for, but after a 3-1 win in the Capivara Group, a 1-0 defeat at home was more than enough to see Cornellians through into the all-important play-off round.
Globe Cup -- Second prelim Round (CEN) Tir Snake Strike a 0-0 Port Sebastian (STB) Corinthian Spirits 2-2 Lammerton Handon United 1-0 Utica United (OSR)
Away goals is always a sad way to go out, but despite their best efforts, Port Sebastian were unable to find the goal they needed to take them through against Tir Snake Strike. For Lammerton it was a case of consolidating their own position, having won the first leg by a narrow margin. An early goal from Robard Hovart went a long way to settling their nerves, and they went on knock the Corinthian Spirits out the competition with a 2-2 draw. Handon United followed up their impressive result in the away leg with a very solid 1-0 win at home over Utica United. With away goals in their favour, it was always going to be hard for the Osarians, once United got their noses in front.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 0–0 D'Itille Granton Vale 0–0 Port James Athletic Handon North 2–2 Marionville Port Patrick United 0–1 Mucusia FC Soessch 0–2 Handon United Lammerton 2–3 Port Sebastian Kings Park 3–0 New Island New Belfast Blues 1–2 Hollin La Gorlions 0–3 Dundee Cornellians 3–4 Jena VB
There was a massive shock this week as Cornellians went down 3-4 to Jena at Lochend Stadium. Alexander Pearce's side bottled it, throwing away the lead twice, as newly promoted Jena claimed a valuable scalp. Eula Richard and Kat Kvanderwyk put the Eagles in front in the first half only for Marko Simonsen and Marion Scherzer to pull The Mountaineers back level. Eloisa Purinton then put the champions back in front latching onto a pass from Tsumugi, before a late double from James Tegg gave the visitors a dream win. Port Sebastian are looking in excellent shape this season, and after a 3-2 win at Lammerton, they are beginning to seem like the team to beat. Jasper Valaren and Merry Orbourne were on target for the Hortents, but it wasn't enough as Emiline Millet, Joey Bia and Demba Traore sent a strong message to the rest of the sides in the league. Dundee continue to be this season's surprise package however, this time defeating La Gorlions 3-0 on the North Island. Steven Rexmont scored his second of the season, and there were also goals for Liam Goncalves and David Hughes, as The Panners showed the rest of the field what they are made of. In other matches - Christian Lovenkrands and Isaac Nketiah gave Handon United a 2-0 win over a poor FC Soessch, Central Sunrise teenager Natalie "Envy" Adams put in a classy performance as Mucusia shocked Port Patrick in Handon, and Sendoa, Estelle Conway, and Darren O'Brian helped Kings Park to a resounding win over New Island.
Champions Cup -- Play-off Round Cornellians 0–4 Bassabook Old Boys (ZWZ)
It was probably true to say that match with Bassabook Old Boys just one bridge too far for Cornellians, as yet another Champions' Cup campaign looked set to go up in smoke. The Eagles were utterly hammered 4-0, as they played host to the Zwangzug side, leaving them a mountain to climb in the return leg.
Globe Cup -- Play-off Round Handon United 0–3 Mliona-Lpaka (TUR) (BRE) North Hall 3–1 Lammerton
Compounding a disappointing week for Schottic clubs in international domestic football, Handon United kept up the tradition of performing badly against Turori clubs. A 3-0 defeat to Mliona-Lpaka in Handon meant the like Cornellians, United's UICA campaign was all but over. Lammerton didn't really perform much better, as they took on Brenecian club North Hall in Esportiva. Despite a goal from young Cenian Jasper Vales, the Hornets never really got out of second gear, going down 3-1 to the higher ranked side.
SPL Jena VB 4–4 New Belfast Warriors Dundee 1–2 Cornellians Hollin 0–1 La Gorlions New Island 1–0 New Belfast Blues Port Sebastian 2–0 Kings Park Handon United 5–4 Lammerton Mucusia 0–0 FC Soessch Marionville 3–2 Port Patrick United Port James Athletic 1–0 Handon North D'Itille 1–2 Granton Vale
The main event this weekend did not disappoint as Handon United and Lammerton played out a nine-goal thriller at Harbour Hill Stadium. Aya Bernman put United ahead after eleven minutes slotting a Carranza-Jones pass into the far corner of the net, before John Cooper's header pulled Lammerton level. A Serge Mavididi double salvo then gave United a comfortable lead going into the break. In the second half however, Robard Horvat, and Mars Alexandersson pulled the hornets level, before Alfred Seggerson restored his side's lead with ten minutes to go. There was to be plenty of last minute drama in this match, as Jasper Valaren's delightful pass allowed Merry Osbourne to level the scores once again, only for substitute Quinn McEnithly to give her side the narrowest of wins with a strike deep in stoppage time. Cornellians also bounced back this week with a 2-1 win over in form Dundee. It would have been of no surprise to anyone who has watched The Panners' games this season that it was Steven Rexmont who put the home side ahead. The Eagles had enough about them to grind out the result however, Kel Koromin and Mable Finnemark getting the all-important goals. Another side who are in good form right now are newly promoted Mucusia, who held FC Soessch in Port James. The Eusebians could have even taken all three points, had young Polaaskan Stefan Tobiasz connected with Ryuni's corner. With New Belfast Warriors recording a 4-4 draw with Jena, Port Sebastain took full advantage of the situation beating Kings Park 2-0 at Dryerton. There is rarely a match goes by without Demba Traore on the score sheet and this was no different with the young Semar slotting home a first half double, to give his side the win in an otherwise tight affair. Elsewhere Kennick Finlay gave New Island a first win against NBB, Jade Irwin curled home a 25-yard effort as The Lions narrowly defeated Hollin, and Palle Elsmere scored the only goal of the game as Athletic defeated Handon North.
Champions Cup -- Play-off Round (ZWZ) Bassabook Old Boys 3-0 Cornellians
After their humbling at the hands of Bassabook Old Boys in Lochend, The Eagles knew they were going to need to find something special if they were going to go through to the group stages of the Champion's Cup. Unfortunately it was more of the same however, and another 3-0 defeat underlined the need to add more players with UICA experience if they are to do better in future.
Globe Cup -- Play-off Round (TUR) Mliona-Lpaka 2-2 Handon United Lammerton 0-1 North Hall (BRE)
Both Schottia's Globe Cup representatives had a lot to do if they were going to make the next round, having been soundly thrashed in the opening fixtures. United dug deep, earning a 2-2 draw Mliona-Lpaka, but it was never going to be enough to see them through. Despite second half goals from Serge Mavididi, and Aya Bernman, there was no way back for Carl Sorensen's side. Lammerton also gave it everything they had, attacking their Brenecian opponents for full on 90 minutes. In the end however, North Hall's quality told, as their break away goal ended the Hornets' UICA campaign for yet another year.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 2–0 Granton Vale Handon North 1–3 D'Itille Port Patrick United 2–0 Port James Athletic FC Soessch 2–1 Marionville Lammerton 1–0 Mucusia Kings Park 4–4 Handon United New Belfast Blues 0–3 Port Sebastian La Gorlions 2–2 New Island Cornellians 2–0 Hollin Jena VB 1–0 Dundee
Traditionally, one of the most hotly anticipated SPL fixtures is Kings Park vs. Handon United and they left us on the edge of our seats once again, as the match ended 4-4. The Royals went at the visitors from the kick-off and on another day goals from Erin Braden, Francis Keelinan (2) and Sendoa, would have been enough. United, however, salvaged a point late on when Serge Mavididi was on hand to nod in an Alf Seggerson corner. Lammerton really needed a result this week after a slight dip in form, and what's more, they had to negotiate potential banana skins, Mucusia. The Hornets stuck to the task however, and a second half goal from Merry Osboure was enough to see off the Eusebians. Port Sebastian continue to make good headway, a 3-0 win at New Blefast Blues the latest in a string of handsome results. The North Handon side are really shaping up to be the team to beat this season, and goals from Emiline Millet, a Giancoma de Jerusalem, and Kaija Koppel helped them stamp their authority on the match. New Belfast Warriors continue to make good progress also, an Ivan Archic double helping them get the better of Granton Vale, after a superb team performance. It really seems like Graeme Collins has the Whalers playing some good football now, and the addition of Kurugaya and Holden have only enhanced that. In other results: Cornellians had a comfortable win over Hollin, with Cosmin Dobrescu and Kel Koromin both on the score sheet. Despite Jade Irwin being on target yet again, it wasn't enough for The Lions to defeat New Island with the result finishing 2-2. And both Paul Coine and Kevin Morton were on target for Port Patrick, as they marched to a hard earned win over Port James Athletic.
Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round Cornellians 1–1 Willox Street Pirates (PCR)
Like some strange combination of a friendly and a grudge match, Cornellians welcomed their Christopheran cousins to Lochend Stadium. Alexander Pearce's side stood on the brink of a place in the group stages of the Globe Cup, but unfortunately the Willox Street Pirates barred their way. The horrible truth was - even if many Schottians didn't like it - The Pirates were not going to roll over easily in this match, and the Super-League's finest were easily as good on paper as the Schottic Champs. This fact was perfectly illustrated, as the Pirates took the lead through a Yunji header after fifteen minutes. Cornellians fought hard, and battled their way back with a Kel Koromin goal on the stroke of half time, but for all their efforts, their was no way through the visitors' defence, and the match finished all square.
Cup Winners' Cup -- First Round (PAS) Galatica 4-2 New Belfast Warriors
For those who have followed Schottia's previous attempts in the Cup Winners' Cup, it will have come as no surprise that the Warriors trip to Pasarga was in the end fruitless. Despite a good run in the league this season, and goals from Tomás Fierro, and Ivan Archic, the New Belfast club eventually went down 4-2 to Galatica.
SPL Dundee 1–2 New Belfast Warriors Hollin 1–0 Jena VB New Island 4–4 Cornellians Port Sebastian 0–0 La Gorlions Handon United 1–0 New Belfast Blues Mucusia 2–3 Kings Park Marionville 1–2 Lammerton Port James Athletic 0–0 FC Soessch D'Itille 1–2 Port Patrick United Granton Vale 2–0 Handon North
One match which promised to be an exciting encounter this weekend was Kings Park's visit to Mucusia. With both sides opting for an attacking, free-flowing style of play, it was always going to bring goals and a very open contest. The side from Port James struck first blood, with a goal from Flora Klee, as the twenty year old responded quickest to a mix up in the Royals defence. Kings Park were in the lead before half time however, with Francis Keelinan and Yuiko Kasugano putting the Handon side in front. Mucusia responded shortly after the break, with Envy Adams and Laura Smith combining well to set up Aimée Hétu for her fourth goal of the season. It was Schottic DBC star Estelle Conway who would have the final say however, tucking away a Sendoa pass in the dying minutes to take home all three points. It was also goals galore in South Berwick, as Cornellians game from two goals down in the last ten minutes to draw 4-4 with New Island. The RD-D Champions must have felt they had done enough to shock the two times SPL champions when Nikita Clohessy put them 4-2 up on 76 minutes. The Eagles were down but not out however, and after Eloisa Purinton curled in a free kick five minutes later, the visitors went on to savage a point as Casey Brind powered home from the edge of the area following a clever lay off from Kel Kormin. New Belfast Warriors also had to fight hard this week, however goals from Ivan Archic and Holly Addison were enough to give the Whalers victory against a battling Dundee side. Elsewhere, a late Robard Horvat goal gave Lammerton a smash and grab win over Marionville. Jane Swanson and Connie Malone's goals were enough to give Port Patrick a 2-1 win over D'Itille. And a single Nathaniel Bueno-Wells header was all United needed to brush past New Belfast Blues.
Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round (PCR) Willox Street Pirates 2-0 Cornellians
If Conellians fans were upset with their side's result at home, they were positively furious with the 2-0 defeat in Port Christopher. On the balance of play they could have had no real complaints, however some of the more reactionary sections of the crowd were even calling for Alexander Pearce's sacking. An outstanding goal from Boötia, and late strike from Schottian Jenny McDonald, sent The Eagles out of UICA football before the group phase once again.
Cup Winners' Cup -- First Round New Belfast Warriors 1-1 Galatica (PAS)
There was no fairytale, no late fight back, and no heroics, as The Warriors became the last Schottic club to head for the international domestic football exit door. Despite a draw with the Pasargan side, they couldn't come close to overturning the deficit form the week before.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 0–0 Handon North Port Patrick United 1–3 Granton Vale FC Soessch 1–0 D'Itille Lammerton 1–2 Port James Athletic Kings Park 1–0 Marionville New Belfast Blues 2–1 Mucusia La Gorlions 1–1 Handon United Cornellians 1–2 Port Sebastian Jena VB 0–3 New Island Dundee 0–0 Hollin
There was one pivotal result this week, in an otherwise low scoring set of fixtures. Port Sebastian laid out their intent to reclaim their title with a 2-1 win over Cornellians at Lochend Stadium, with their opponents not pulling away the way we expected. It was all going to plan for Alexander Pearce's side as Kathryn Kvanderwyk got on the end of a Triffid Ramsey cross to give her side the lead after only 16 minutes. Porty responded well however, first with Esther Abner's long raking ball wreaking havoc in the Eagles defence, allowing Demba Traore to tap the ball in from close range. The Handon side then sealed the win with a low Joey Bia drive from the edge of the box, which pinged off of several legs before ending up in the net. There will likely be a few fans on the New island a little miffed if Xander Cross doesn't win a first call up to the Schottia squad during the World Cup qualifiers, and the right-winger was outstanding again today scoring one and setting up two of his side's three goals against Jena. New Island seem to have gotten off to a decent start this season, as Judy Scott's players look to stay up. With Cornellians dropping points Handon United needed a big result, but they had to endure a typically frustrating afternoon in the North Mountains, drawing 1-1 with La Gorlions. United took the lead with a well taken Isaac Nketiah strike on 39 minutes, however The Lions weren't going down without a fight, and bounced back with a late Fredrick Houban goal after a nice exchange between Jade Irwin and Billy Small. In other matches, The Warriors were held to a 0-0 draw at home to Handon North, Daineri striker Shu was on hand to help NBB defeat Mucusia, and Bruno Schwarts scored Soessch's only goal in difficult afternoon against D'Itille.
SPL Hollin 0–2 New Belfast Warriors New Island 0–1 Dundee Port Sebastian 4–2 Jena VB Handon United 1–2 Cornellians Mucusia 1–2 La Gorlions Marionville 2–1 New Belfast Blues Port James Athletic 3–6 Kings Park D'Itille 0–5 Lammerton Granton Vale 1–2 FC Soessch Handon North 0–0 Port Patrick United
After a low scoring week in the previous set of fixtures, the sides more than made up for it with some big results. Kings Park and Port James managed nine goals between them, as The Royals ran out 6-3 winners. There were doubles for both Estelle Conway and Francis Keelinan in this match, as well as goals for Sendoa and Darren O'Brian, with Kings Park capping off a very good win on the road. Lammerton recorded an even more impressive victory, with John Cooper (2), Merry Osbourne, Mars Alexandersson, and Jasper Valaren all on target in their 5-0 win over D'Itille. The Hornets really seem to be hitting some form at the right time this season, and if they are able to keep this up then a fourth consecutive Globe Cup place is not out of the question. There was also an emphatic win this week for Port Sebastian, as they continue to be the early pace setters. A Demba Traore double, along with goals from Giancoma de Jerusalem, and Louis Porter saw them defeat Jena 4-2. There was a great performance in this match from Chiyoko Sakuraka, as the Kirisakian left-winger had a hand in three of the four goals. Elsewhere, Cornellians got a very important win, coming from a goal behind to beat Handon United in Handon. FC Soessch continued their unbeaten run with a 2-1 victory over Granton Vale. And finally O'Maramy and Archic were on hand to give The Warriors a 2-0 win over Hollin.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 2–4 Port Patrick United FC Soessch 0–0 Handon North Lammerton 2–1 Granton Vale Kings Park 1–2 D'Itille New Belfast Blues 1–1 Port James Athletic La Gorlions 4–2 Marionville Cornellians 3–1 Mucusia Jena VB 0–1 Handon United Dundee 1–0 Port Sebastian Hollin 0–3 New Island
One side who seem to have experienced a turn around in fortunes are La Gorlions, who will have ruffled a few feather with their 4-2 win over Marionville. Davy Ellan opened the scoring for The Lions, sliding in to turn Billy Small's cross into the net for his third of the season, only for Michael Maxwell to equalise after some good work from Alyssa Haight. Haight's countrywoman, Jade Irwin, then put the Lions back in front with a trademark strike from the edge of the area. The home side then went two goal up just before half time when a Christy Snell pass caught the Old Boys defence off guard allowing Jago Avelione to power the ball in from close range. Marionville pulled one back with a wonderful solo effort from young Pasargan Vojnomir Nikolic, but it was too little too late as La Gorlions rounded of the scoring with Avelione's second goal of the game from an Irwin corner. With Port Sebastian going down 1-0 in Dundee to a Jacques goal, there was an excellent opportunity for Cornellians to strengthen their own position. It was a chance the champions duly converted, with Kel Koromin's first half double putting them well on the road to victory over Mucusia. The Cenian's first came courtesy of an ambitious long ball from Eula Richard, which caught everyone napping except Koromin, who scored from close range. The Eagles were 2-0 up just before half time as the $20M signing got the better of Poppy Fayrkirk in the six-yard-box to double his tally for the afternoon. Cornellains added a third in the second half with Cosmin Dobrescu's well taken free kick after Eloisa Purniton was brought down on the edge of the box. The match was long over by the time Daineri attacker Ryuni scored to pull one back for the Eusebians. In other results: Port Patrick recorded an impressive 4-2 win over the Warriors, helped on their way by another top class performance from Cerys Kennicot, who will not be at the club much longer if she continues to play like this. Handon United earned a 1-0 win over a hard working Jena team, with Aya Bernman scoring the only goal. And Mars Alexandersson's double ensured that Lammerton kept the pressure on at the top of the table, as her side defeated Granton Vale 2-1.
SPL New Island 0–2 New Belfast Warriors Port Sebastian 1–1 Hollin Handon United 0–0 Dundee Mucusia 3–1 Jena VB Marionville 3–4 Cornellians Port James Athletic 3–3 La Gorlions D'Itille 2–2 New Belfast Blues Granton Vale 2–2 Kings Park Handon North 1–2 Lammerton Port Patrick United 0–1 FC Soessch
FC Soessch kept their good run going, and at this rate they stand a good chance of sneaking back into the UICA spots. The side had a very tough test against Port Patrick, who are always good at home, but a Sara Foucault goal seven minutes from time was enough for her side to take all three points back to the North Island. Nepharim winger Johan Shearer did well to take the ball to the by-line before cracking a cross-come-shot across the face of goal. All Altavian Kalhoro could really do was palm the shot, which ended up right in the path of the former Mucusia girl. Meanwhile Foucault's former charges won the battle of the newly promoted teams in style with a 3-1 win over lowly Jena. Flora Klee opened the scoring following a clever pass from Natalie Adams after fourteen minutes, before Pasarga's Aimée Hétu doubled their lead from the penalty spot. Jena then pulled one back after some good play from Marko Simonsen released Marion Scherzer for her third of the season. Moments later Adams added one of her own the round things off for the side from the west. We also saw a great battle this week at the Allen Dixon Arena where Cornellians were forced to battle back from a goal down twice to get the better of a tenacious Marionville. Despite Eloisa Purinton opening the scoring for The Eagles, Marionville were by far the better team early on, and eventually took the lead through goals from Michael Maxwell and Vojnomir Nikolic. Cornellians pulled themselves back level with a piece of brilliance from Kirisakian wonderkid Tsumugi, skipping two challenges to tee-up Kel Koromin for the easiest of goals. The Old Boys came out strongly in the second half and retook the lead thanks to a distance strike from Barry Stewart, however it was only to delay matters as Cornellians struck twice in quick succession through Eula Richard and Kathryn Kvanderwyk, to edge the match 4-3. Elsewhere, Handon United were held 0-0 by Dundee. It was a similar story as Port Sebastian drew 1-1 with Hollin. And New Belfast Warriors defeated New Island 2-0 with Jenny Lundergrand and Miki Kurugaya grabbing the goals.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 3–3 FC Soessch Lammerton 5–2 Port Patrick United Kings Park 1–0 Handon North New Belfast Blues 3–1 Granton Vale La Gorlions 0–0 D'Itille Cornellians 1–2 Port James Athletic Jena VB 2–5 Marionville Dundee 1–2 Mucusia Hollin 1–0 Handon United New Island 0–0 Port Sebastian
This week there was another incredible result at Lammerton put five past Port Patrick United. The Breakers did score twice in this match, with goals from Paul Coine and Jane Swanson, but The Hornets were just too good, with the young midfield trio of Alexandersson, Horvat, and Valaren looking a different class at times. Another player to really stand out in this game was Brenecian Merry Osbourne, the 30-year-old scoring a hattrick en route to the 5-2 win, which lifted the side to the top of the league. Another fascinating tussle was the 3-3 draw played out between two of the league's resurgent sides, Soessch and the Warriors. On another day the visitors might have felt they'd done enough, with goals from Sara Foucault, Bruno Schwartz, and Konstantin Holstad, but The Whalers were equal to them, scoring three themselves through Ivan Archic (2) and Tomás Fierro. It took them most of the season so far, but Marionville finally got things together with 5-2 win away to Jena. Michael Maxwell was on hand with a double early on, and Alyssa Haight tucked another one away just before half time. Jena came out of the blocks fighting with goals from James Tegg and Kurt Hierholzer, but Marionville responded decisively with another two of their own from Vojnomir Nikolic and Johnny Birch. Elsewhere, Port Sebastian will have been disappointed once again with a 0-0 draw with New Island, Mucusia finished strongly with a 2-1 win at Dundee, and Cornellians were themselves on the wrong end of a 2-1 score line with Port James at Lochend stadium as they lost ground on the leaders.
Monthly Awards:
Player: Jasper Valaren-- Lammerton The young Cenian slotted in well into the Hornets midfield and so far looks like he could be the difference for his side in their assault on the table. The Teenager has linked the midfield and the attack brilliantly, and seems to compliment the rest of the players.
Young Player: Miki Kurugay -- New Belfast Warriors The powerful striker got of to a great start for The Warriors, after joining from Kirisaki. Already looks like she could form an effective partnership with Ivan Archic in the attack.
Manager: John Sedder -- Lammerton Again, most fans thought it was the end of the road for Lammerton in terms of their ability to challenge at the top. However Sedder's boys and girls have come back all the stronger, and with the additions of Valaren and Smith-Hammond there is a good chance they could sustain this run.
Player: Demba Traore -- Port Sebastian In terms of sheer goal-scoring ability, there has possibly never been a more effective striker in SPL history than Demba Traore. If you ignore the stuff he can't do then he has the potential to develop into a world-class player.
Young Player: CM Jade Irwin -- La Gorlions If Irwin keeps going like this, then she isn't going to be at La Gorlions much longer. Her often fragile temperament from last season seems to be gone, replaced by a steeliness and real hunger to succeed.
Manager: Jock Sonny -- Dundee Dundee have gone from relegation candidates, to a side that looks like making an assault on the top half of the table. Jock Sonny has filled the team with lots of talented youngsters, and players with ambition.
Player: John Cooper -- Lammerton Veteran striker John Cooper is arguably in the form of his career, as his side are really shaping up to be title contenders. At this rate, he has a good chance of him adding to his one cap for his country.
Young Player: Steven Rexmont -- Dundee The 18-year-old has been a breath of fresh air for Dundee this season, combining well with Goncalves down the right. Rexmont has had some of the best right-backs in the league running scared.
Manager: Pascal Voitle -- La Gorlions After slipping down the table somewhat, La Gorlions have put a string of good results together at the right time, working with a wafer thin playing squad.
Soessch 1990 0–1 D'Itille New Belfast Warriors 3–1 New Belfast Blues Lammerton 6–1 Dundee Hollin 0–1 Granton Vale Handon United 1–2 Port Patrick United Stalker Bay 0–3 Regional Development Side D Port Sebastian 1–0 Kirk Preston Lammerton City 0–1 Mucusia FC Döllar 3–1 Port James Port James Athletic 0–0 La Gorlions (1–0 AET) Snubbeack Rock 1–0 Marionville Thistle Hillstreet 1–1 Cornellians (1–1 AET) (2–3 pen.) Regional Development Side A 3–2 Handon North Herman Park 3–0 Jena VB Marionville 0–1 FC Soessch New Island 1–2 Kings Park
Schottic Cup -- Round of Sixteen
Port Patrick United 1–2 FC Soessch D'Itille 4–3 Regional Development Side D Snubbeack Rock 1–1 New Belfast Warriors (2–1 AET) Cornellians 2–0 Granton Vale Regional Development Side A 3–0 FC Döllar Mucusia 4–1 Herman Park Lammerton 4–2 Kings Park Port James Athletic 0–2 Port Sebastian
Posted: Mon May 23, 2016 11:18 pm
by Schottia
Matchday Thirteen to Twenty-five
SPL Port Sebastian 3–2 New Belfast Warriors Handon United 1–0 New Island Mucusia 1–0 Hollin Marionville 1–3 Dundee Port James Athletic 2–1 Jena VB D'Itille 4–4 Cornellians Granton Vale 0–1 La Gorlions Handon North 2–2 New Belfast Blues Port Patrick United 2–1 Kings Park FC Soessch 1–0 Lammerton
There was a huge blow this week for Lammerton, as a now revitalised FC Soessch side proved too strong, knocking the league leaders off of their perch. Konstantin Holstad's first half free kick was enough to see his side move up to forth in the league, as the Polar Islander curled his effort past Tim Fines. This meant Port Sebastian were back on top with a well deserved 3-2 win over the Warriors, which Conner Watts side had to work hard for. At one point Port were in real danger of throwing it away after Adrienne O'Callahan and Jenny Lundergrand levelled the scores at 2-2. But the Handon side dug deep and a late Giancoma de Jerusalem strike finally gave them all three points after battling hard for most of the second half. There were also unexpected wins for this season's surprise packages, with both Mucusia and Dundee recording good results. The Regional Division B champions had Flora Klee to thank for her 27th minute goal, which was enough to edge her side past Hollin in Port James; and Dundee came from behind to defeat Marionville 3-1 with goals from Steven Rexmont, Gustav Fandrich, and Davy Galmore. In other matches, an Alf Seggerson free kick helped United to a less than convincing win over New Island at Harbour Hill. Port Patrick did just enough to get past Kings Park, thanks to a fantastic Cerys Kenicott performance. And La Gorlions kept in touch with the UICA places as Davy Ellan's goal helped them scrape past Granton Vale.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 0–3 Lammerton Kings Park 0–1 FC Soessch New Belfast Blues 2–2 Port Patrick United La Gorlions 3–0 Handon North Cornellians 2–1 Granton Vale Jena VB 1–1 D'Itille Dundee 1–0 Port James Athletic Hollin 0–0 Marionville New Island 2–0 Mucusia Port Sebastian 1–0 Handon United
There will be a few people at Cornellians left scratching their heads, if their side don't start to pull away from the pack soon, but on this most recent showing, that might not happen. A horribly frustrating draw away to D'Itille was their lot the week before, and now a hard fought battle against Granton Vale only yielded a 2-1 win. For all The Eagles' early pressure in this match, it was The Beachcomber who took the lead through Arron Marcie just before half time. In the second half the champs did get their act together however, firstly through Eloisa Purinton, who reacted well to turn in a cross from new signing Rachel Mercurier. The Gloriaxian was then involved her side's second goal, laying the ball off for Casey Brind, who was then able to play Kel Koromin through for a vital finish in terms of the title race. One side who had no such trouble this week was Lammerton, who bounced back from being knocked off top spot with an emphatic win over the Warriors. Mars Alexandersson opened the scoring after fifteen minutes with a well-taken strike from the angle of the box, which seemed to catch out everyone including the keeper. The Hornets then made it two only minutes later when Jasper Valaren's cross-field pass picked out John Cooper. Despite the Warriors' best efforts, including a strike from Ivan Archic, which went just wide, it was Lammerton who had the final say - with Alexandersson slipping the ball into the path of Brenecian Merry Osbourne to finish at close range. Elsewhere, Port Sebastian were winners of the Handon derby, defeating United by one goal to nil. Jade Irwin was up to her usual trickery as La Gorlions defeated Handon North 1-0, and Sara Foucault helped FC Soessch keep their good run going as they defeated Kings Park 1-0 away from home.
SPL Handon United 0–1 New Belfast Warriors Mucusia 1–3 Port Sebastian Marionville 2–0 New Island Port James Athletic 2–0 Hollin D'Itille 1–0 Dundee Granton Vale 0–0 Jena VB Handon North 2–3 Cornellians Port Patrick United 3–1 La Gorlions FC Soessch 1–1 New Belfast Blues Lammerton 3–2 Kings Park
Cornellians might not be finding things easy right now, but you have to hand it to them, they are still grinding out results. Goals from Cosmin Dobrescu, Kathryn Kvanderwyk, and latest hero Rachel Mercurier were enough to only just out muscle Handon North, in a game where The Eagles never really clicked. Mercriers late finish will come as a huge relief to their fans, after Evangeline Querón (who has emerged as a potential Cornellians target) had pulled the Scholars level with five minutes to go. Port Sebastian kept themselves on course for another surprise title triumph, with a resounding 3-1 win over Mucusia at the Pllier Ground. The Eusebians have proven to be no slouches this season, but they were utterly blown away by a show of pace and power from, in particular; Traore, Bia, and Abner. It was predictably the Semar Demba Traore, who opened the scoring after only six minutes, picking up a clever Louis Porter pass before slamming his shot in from the edge of the box. The home side then pulled themselves level after Laura Smith's initial shot rebounded into the path of Aimée Hétu, for the Pasargan to finish. The result was put to bed in the second half however, with first Joey Bia, and then Giancoma de Jerusalem finding the back of the net in a dominant display for Porty. Marionville recorded a much needed win this week, defeating New Island 2-0. The Old Boys have been struggling a bit this term, and were in real danger of getting sucked into a relegation battle. Marionville took the lead through a stunning Alyssa Haight strike, as the Nepharim winger's hit and hope shot from all of 22-yards went whistling into the top corner. The home side then rounded things off with a late Vojnomir Nikolic goal, in what was a very good afternoon for the club. In other matches; Lammerton heaped more misery on Kings Park who are having to endure a slide in form; Jasper Valaren's goal was the pick of the bunch in a 3-2 win for the Hornets. New Belfast Warriors will also be delighted with a 1-0 win at Handon United. And lastly Port Patrick put pay to La Gorlions recent run with a 3-1 win at Galloway Park.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 0–0 Kings Park New Belfast Blues 0–2 Lammerton La Gorlions 1–1 FC Soessch Cornellians 1–0 Port Patrick United Jena VB 2–1 Handon North Dundee 0–0 Granton Vale Hollin 3–3 D'Itille New Island 1–2 Port James Athletic Port Sebastian 2–2 Marionville Handon United 2–0 Mucusia
Lammerton were back at the top of the table this week with a 2-0 win at NBB, as Porty were held 2-2 at Marionville. Lammerton are looking good for their money at the moment, and goals for both John Cooper and Merry Osbourne this week meant that the Hornets have now win six of their last seven games. For Cornellians it was a similar story to the previous week, where the side managed to do just enough to get over the line. It was Kel Koromin's turn to be the one to drag them over the finish line this time; the Cenian putting in a tenacious shift up front cumulating in a well-taken goal. Handon United desperately needed a win, and they got it against a Mucusia side who seem to be experiencing a worrying slump. United took the game by the scruff of the neck early on, when Christian Lovenkrands planted a cross on the head of countryman Serge Mavididi, to give them the lead. After a reasonably tight affair, United scored a decisive second when Devon Carranza-Jones' pass for Schottic DBC star Aya Bernman left the teenager in space to slot home her fourth of the season. In other news, Jena got a much needed win over Handon North, The Warriors were held at home by Kings Park, and La Gorlions and Soessch finished 1-1, in the battle of the North Island clubs.
SPL Mucusia 1–2 New Belfast Warriors Marionville 5–4 Handon United Port James Athletic 2–2 Port Sebastian D'Itille 1–0 New Island Granton Vale 1–1 Hollin Handon North 0–1 Dundee Port Patrick United 5–3 Jena VB FC Soessch 0–1 Cornellians Lammerton 0–0 La Gorlions Kings Park 2–1 New Belfast Blues
There was another stinging defeat for Handon United to deal with this week as they went down 5-4 to Marionville in dramatic fashion. Having led for most of the game through Isaac Nketiah (2), Mana Satō, and Alfred Seggerson, they were undone by two strikes on the 82nd and 86th minute from Michael Maxwell and Johnny Birch. The result will be particularly painful for United who are now in real danger of finding themselves cut adrift from the title race. In a week where Port Sebastian and Lammerton both drew, Cornellians took full advantage defeating FC Soessch. The Eagles had their work cut out, because this seems to be a very different Soessch from the one, which has struggled for the last two seasons. They had Cenian star Kel Koromin to thank once again as their $20m man seems to be coming onto a good run of form at the moment. This is in stark contrast to team captain Eloisa Purinton who has been seriously off the boil this season following the transfer speculation during the summer. There was also a very strong performance from Port Patrick United who won 5-3 over Jena VB. Cerys Kennicot grabbed herself a double, and there were also goals from Connie Malone, Paul Coine, and Willie McIntyre, as the Breakers looked very good in attack. Elsewhere; Miki Kurugaya, and Craig O'Maramy scored in New Belfast Warriors' win over Mucusia; Jacques was on target as Dundee won a tight match with Handon North; while Estelle Conway and Francis Keelinan helped The Royals to beat New Belfast Blues.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 3–2 New Belfast Blues La Gorlions 2–3 Kings Park Cornellians 3–0 Lammerton Jena VB 0–0 FC Soessch Dundee 1–0 Port Patrick United Hollin 3–0 Handon North New Island 2–4 Granton Vale Port Sebastian 2–1 D'Itille Handon United 4–2 Port James Athletic Mucusia 1–1 Marionville
Matches don't get much bigger than Cornellians Vs. Lammerton at the moment. The Eagles, before the season started, would have considered themselves firm favourites - but the way things are going, this was by no means a forgone conclusion. Everyone was predicting a close game, and in the end it was anything but, as Cornellians saved their best form of the season for the visit of the Hornets. Tsumugi Narita, and Eula Richard put in five star performances in the midfield, with the girls bossing the game from start to finish. While it was unsurprisingly Kel Koromin who opened the scoring, it was to be Kathryn Kvanderwyk who stole the show, with a hard working display, scoring two second half goals for the club. The result would have been music to the ears of Port Sebastian, who once again leapfrogged Lammeton to the top of the table, with a 2-1 win over D'Itille. The Lime Greens scored a fantastic goal in this game through striker Callum Frir, however a workman like performance from Porty got the job done. Kirisakian winger Chiyoko Sakuraka curled in her side's first early in the first half, and after Frir's equaliser, Kaija Koppel used her blistering pace to good effect, leaving the defence for dead before rounding the keeper. Kings Park will be very happy with their work this week, taking all three points from their match with La Gorlions, in a fixture that is traditionally very tricky. Jago Avelione had a good game for the Lions in attack, but even he could do nothing about the King Park onslaught with Francis Keelinan, Yuiko Kasugano, and Sendoa all scoring for the Handon side. In other matches, Mucusia left it late to salvage a point against Marionville with Flora Klee turning in a Natalie Adams pass in stoppage time. Steven Rexmont was a different class as he helped Dundee to a 1-0 win over Port Patrick. And finally an Ivan Archic hattrick helped the Warriors win the New Belfast derby in style; his 87th minute goal the difference between the sides.
SPL Marionville 3–3 New Belfast Warriors Port James Athletic 0–0 Mucusia D'Itille 0–0 Handon United Granton Vale 2–4 Port Sebastian Handon North 0–2 New Island Port Patrick United 3–1 Hollin FC Soessch 0–1 Dundee Lammerton 3–0 Jena VB Kings Park 2–3 Cornellians New Belfast Blues 0–1 La Gorlions
One side to have improved recently are Marionville, as the Old Boys continue to pull themselves out of the mire this week. A draw with Port Sebastian, along with a win over Handon United, and now a draw with the New Belfast Warriors have taken some of the pressure off manager Basil Bunton. The Warriors have been on good form this season, but Marionville were their match in this game, with Vojnomir Nikolic (2), and Barry Stewart both on the score sheet. Although the visitors weren't at their best, they still managed to put three past the hosts, and will take heart from the fact that they salvaged a point. In another enthralling encounter Cornellians defeated Kings Park 3-2 at Lochely Green. Eloisa Purinton got over her recent blip as she opened the scoring, thanks to a Rachel Mercurier pass. The Royals then levelled the scoring as Darren O'Brian's freekick found the head of Estelle Conway, who nodded in her tenth goal of the season. The Eagles opened the second half with a quick fire double. Firstly, a cleverly disguised ball from Cosmin Dobrescu, set Tsumugi Narita through to slide the ball inside Cliff Smith's far post. Shortly after, Kel Koromin played strike partner Purinton through for her second, which the Gloriaxian tucked away from close range. Both Lammerton and Port Sebastian kept themselves on course at the top of the league also, the former defeating Jena 3-0 in an excellent team performance, with goals from John Cooper, Mars Alexandersson, and Merry Osbourne. Port Sebastian found the going slightly tougher however, with Granton Vale proving stiff opposition at home. The Beachcombers scored through Jack Hobbs and Arron Marcie in a fiercely competitive first half, which ended 2-2. Porty pulled away from their Greater Handon rivals in the second half with young East Vormsian Kaija Koppel and Joey Bia scoring the goals which kept their side up top. Elsewhere Handon United continue to struggle as they were held 0-0 at D'Itille. Port Patrick had another thumping victory defeating Hollin 3-1. And La Gorlions picked up a narrow 1-0 win at New Belfast Blues.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 1–0 La Gorlions New Belfast Blues 1–1 Cornellians Kings Park 1–0 Jena VB Lammerton 2–0 Dundee FC Soessch 2–2 Hollin Port Patrick United 0–1 New Island Handon North 0–1 Port Sebastian Granton Vale 0–1 Handon United D'Itille 1–3 Mucusia Port James Athletic 1–2 Marionville
With so many newly promoted sides struggling to stay up in recent years, there has been a fair amount of excitement as Mucusia seem to giving a good account of themselves. What's more the side from Port James have been winning matches with young players, playing some attractive football. The Eusebians' visit to D'Itille was no different, as they won the match 3-1 with an impressive display. Daineri "pin-up" Ryuni was first on the score-sheet for Mucusia curling in an excellent strike from the edge of the box, before Aimée Hétu - at full stretch - doubled their lead, turning in a Natalie Adams through ball. D'Itille did pull one back thanks to a goal from Lucas Yashvil, but it was little more than a consolation for the home side, as Flora Klee compounded their misery from the penalty spot. With Dundee also on a rich vein of form, Lammerton's 2-0 win over the Panners looked all the more impressive this week. John Sedder's side have been treating us to some fantastic football this season, as they have somehow gone from mid-table strugglers five years ago, to looking like a really well balanced side. It was one of their new additions Jasper Valaren who opened the scoring, the Cenian no doubt out to show people what he can do after leaving 1860 Azoth. The Hornets' second came from a Mars Alexandersson corner, which the on form John Cooper nodded into the back of the net. Their title rivals Port Sebastian didn't have it all their own way however, as Demba Traore had to come to the side's rescue against their very close rivals Handon North. The Scholars are in real danger of being cut adrift now, and they gave it everything they had against their Port Sebastian rivals, but the Semar Traore's goal was enough to send them home empty handed again. Finally; Handon United earned a 1-0 win over Granton Vale with a goal from Quinn McEnithly. New Belfast Warriors had Tomás Fierro to thank for getting them past La Gorlions - the Cenian winning a tough midfield battle with Jade Irwin. While Sara Foucault and Bruno Schwartz scored for FC Soessch in their 2-2 draw with Hollin.
SPL Port James Athletic 0–2 New Belfast Warriors Marionville 3–1 D'Itille Mucusia 1–1 Granton Vale Handon United 1–1 Handon North Port Sebastian 0–1 Port Patrick United New Island 2–3 FC Soessch Hollin 1–1 Lammerton Dundee 1–1 Kings Park Jena VB 3–2 New Belfast Blues Cornellians 2–0 La Gorlions
With both Lammerton and Port Sebastian dropping points this week, it was the perfect chance for Cornellians to close right up on their title rivals. The Eagles have been in the kind of form this season that has allowed them to grind out results even when they haven't exactly played fantastic football. This couldn't have been further from the truth however, when the welcomed La Gorla's finest to Lochend Stadium. The Lions had been playing exceptionally well coming into this match, with their central midfield combination of Jade Irwin and Fredrick Houben arguably the best in the league at the moment. Cornellians put in a fantastic performance however, with two second half goals giving them a well deserved win. They broke the deadlock on 49 minutes when Nepharim midfielder Casey Brind played a pinpoint cross field ball for Eloisa Purinton, who sidefooted home on the volley to leave young keeper Janne Mtiliga with no chance. The home side got their second twenty minutes from the end when substitute Mabel Finnemark, played a clever one-two with Kel Koromin, before releasing fellow sub Kathryn Kvanderwyk who didn't pass up the chance to double the side's lead. For Handon North it was a case of hard work paying off, as they earned a 1-1 draw with Handon United. The unmistakable figure of Evangeline Querón was at the heart of everything her side did, and it was her pass for Flipp West, which set up the equaliser, after Isaac Nketiah had opened the scoring for United in the first half. There was also a good win for The Warriors away from home to Port James, who have been going steady too this season. Ivan Archic was as always at the spear point of the Warriors attack, holding off huge pressure from Tomoaki Neyama before squaring the ball for Miki Kurugaya to tuck away. The second goal came after a bit of good play from Quebecois winger Adrienne O'Callahan, who played a delightful crossfield ball for Craig O'Maramy to hammer in from the angle of the box. Elsewhere Konstantin Holstad was man of the match as FC Soessch defeated New Island 3-2, Marionville had another strong win against D'Itille, and Dundee and Kings Park played out a 1-1 draw.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 2–2 Cornellians La Gorlions 6–0 Jena VB New Belfast Blues 1–1 Dundee Kings Park 1–0 Hollin Lammerton 3–1 New Island FC Soessch 1–3 Port Sebastian Port Patrick United 0–1 Handon United Handon North 1–2 Mucusia Granton Vale 0–0 Marionville D'Itille 1–0 Port James Athletic
Jena will have been left wishing that they hadn't made the journey up the mountains to face La Gorlions, as the Bergstadt side were on the receiving end of The Lions biggest win in a number of years. The 6-0 victory, which saw goals for Jago Avelion, Davy Ellen (2), Jade Irwin, Billy Small, and Fredrick Houben, will have been a rude awakening for Jena, who were by no means playing one of the league's best sides. The result perhaps illustrates just how stiff a challenge they face if they want to stay in this division. Their fellow promoted side Mucusia faired considerably better, beating Handon North 2-1 in Handon. The side from Port James opened the scoring through Aimée Hétu, after the Pasargan showed some lovely footwork in the build up. The Eusebians then doubled their lead as a Stefan Tobiasz cross landed at the feet of Gavin Richardson, for a rare goal from the midfielder. The Scholars did pull one back through Evangeline Querón, after a clever Bruno Gatling pass, but in the end it mattered for little. Cornellians suffered a terrible set-back, after working so hard to pull themselves back into contention, as New Belfast Warriors proved to be a stumbling block for the Lochend side. The result was equally damaging, given the fact that both Port Sebastian, and Lammerton won their respective games 3-1. Holly Addison, on this occasion, spoiled the Eagles party, popping up in the 87th minute to tap home a bodged Santiago Lowe clearance, sending the Eagles home with just the one point. In other results Handon United put in a top defensive performance to hold off city rivals Port Patrick, what's more, Aya Bernman even popped up with a goal to give them all three points. Francis Keelinan's goal was also enough for Kings Park to get the better of relegation threatened Hollin. And finally, a late Gustav Fandrich strike earned Dundee a share of the points at The Blues.
SPL D'Itille 0–0 New Belfast Warriors Port James Athletic 1–0 Granton Vale Marionville 1–0 Handon North Mucusia 0–2 Port Patrick United Handon United 0–1 FC Soessch Port Sebastian 1–1 Lammerton New Island 1–2 Kings Park Hollin 1–2 New Belfast Blues Dundee 1–0 La Gorlions Jena VB 2–3 Cornellians
At this rate it is going to be very difficult for Handon United to reach the UICA spot, let alone regain the title their fans crave. This week the club found themselves on the wrong end of a 1-0 defeat at home to FC Soessch, as pressure will continue to mount on manager Carl Sorensen. Despite having nearly 60% possession in this match, Handon United just couldn't put the ball in the back of the net. It was Soessch however, who weren't really even in the game, who would come to take all three points with a late Till Ümann goal. All eyes this week were on another part of the capital, as United's city rivals Port Sebastian hosted Lammerton in a top of the table clash. It was the Hornets who started out as the better team, really taking the match to Porty in the first half. Merry Osbourne went close with a volley on the half our mark, and Chris Gonzaö had to be at his best to punch clear a Jasper Valaren strike from the edge of the area. Despite it being a backs to the wall display, it was Port Sebastian who opened the scoring on the counter, with Demba Traore running most of the Lammerton half before squaring the ball for Joey Bia to slot away. Lammerton looked distraught at having gone behind in spite of their early efforts, however they dug deep and got their rewards five minutes from the end. Mars Alexandersson's clever chip pass found team captain John Cooper in space at the edge of the six yard box, and played on side by Sloane Kirkland, the striker was never going to miss from there. Conellians took the chance, once again, to put themselves in an excellent position with both their main rivals dropping points. They were made to work for the win however, as Jena VB put on a good show up in the North Island Mountains. The Eagles came out on top in the end though, and Kathryn Kvanderwyk's goal seven minutes from time meant that the score line finished 3-2. Elsewhere Dundee kept up their incredible form this season with a 1-0 win over La Gorlions, Kings Park had Keelinan and Kasugano to thank for their 2-1 win over New Island, and a Paul Coine brace helped Port Patrick United to a good win over Mucusia.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 1–1 Jena VB Cornellians 4–1 Dundee La Gorlions 1–0 Hollin New Belfast Blues 1–1 New Island Kings Park 2–1 Port Sebastian Lammerton 4–1 Handon United FC Soessch 1–2 Mucusia Port Patrick United 4–3 Marionville Handon North 2–2 Port James Athletic Granton Vale 1–3 D'Itille
Cornellians seem now to be getting their act together, as they remain top of the table with a 4-1 win over Dundee at Lochend Stadium. There was really very little in the game in an opening-45 which finished 1-1, but Dundee had very little answer for the firepower of their opponents in the second half as the Eagles ran riot. Goals from Kel Koromin and David Galmore had been all the teams had to show for the first half, but the home side came out all guns blazing with an Eloisa Purinton double, and a first goal of the season for Stephen Gargo. The result leaves the defending champs top of the table and looking good all of a sudden. With the players they have at their disposal, there will now be few people betting against them holding onto their title. Similarly, Lammerton showed us all exactly how far they have come, by defeating Handon United 4-1 at the City Ground. In a match that the Hornets dominated from start to finish, they put themselves two goals up inside the first half hour thanks to John Cooper and Merry Osbourne. Despite United puling one back just before half time, Lammerton struck twice more the second half - the pick of the bunch being a 25-yard strike from Mars Alexandersson twenty minutes from time - which sent United home with their tails between their legs. The result will have been all the more important given the fact that Port Sebastion dropped points for a second week running, this time at the hands of Kings Park. Another surprise result this week was Mucusia's 2-1 win away to FC Soessch. Sara Foucault failed to find the net against her former club, and instead it was one of her replacements, Aimée Hétu, who grabbed the headlines as the Pasargan teenager scored a double. In other games, a 1-0 win for La Gorlions against Hollin keeps them in with a shot of making the top ten. Port Patrick closed in on the UICA places with a 4-3 win over Marionville. And finally The Warriors will be disappointed with their 1-1 draw with Jena despite a good performance.
SPL Granton Vale 1–2 New Belfast Warriors D'Itille 1–1 Handon North Port James Athletic 1–1 Port Patrick United Marionville 3–1 FC Soessch Mucusia 0–1 Lammerton Handon United 1–1 Kings Park Port Sebastian 1–2 New Belfast Blues New Island 0–1 La Gorlions Hollin 2–4 Cornellians Dundee 0–0 Jena VB
Port Sebastian's relative collapse would have been hard to predict at the half way point, but now, with only one draw in their last three games, they have seen Lammerton and Cornellians open up a gap at the top of the table. This week was more of the same for Porty as Shu, and Gerhard Bitter were on hand to inflict a 2-1 defeat on the Handon side as they welcomed New Belfast Blues. Cornellians had no such problems, even if keeping a clean sheet is proving tricky for the Champions. Their 4-2 win at Hollin kept them two points clear at the top of the table and on course to defend their title. A strong performance once again from central midfield the trio of Eula Richard, Tsumugi Narita, and Casey Brind proved to be too much for the little side from Belker. Hollin battled bravely in the second half, but the match was ended as a contest when Eula Richard's 25-yard shot deflected into the path of Kel Koromin for the striker's first of the game. Second place side Lammerton kept up the fine form, John Cooper scoring their only goal in a hard working performance against Mucusia. The newly prompted side fought bravely as usual, but there was always the feeling that The Hornets were going to come out on top. Mucusia looked very good at points in the match, however a few of their stars look like they could do with a season or two more under their belts. In Other results, Handon United's poor form continued with a 1-1 draw at home to Kings Park. Marionville had a stunning 3-1 win over FC Soessch, with Alyssa Haight the hero. And Ivan Archic grabbed a late winner as New Belfast Warriors defeated Granton Vale, to cement their fourth place position.
Monthly Awards:
Player: Joey Bia – Port Sebastian Port Sebastian have been setting a blistering pace this season, and along with Lammerton, look like the side to beat. Schottia international Joey Bia has been at the heart of the Porty attack, working well with players such as Traore and Koppel, to form a lightning quick forward-line.
Young Player: Natalie Adams – Mucusia The Sunrise teenager has been an exciting addition to the SPL this season, since joining Mucusia from the Academy of Excellence. Shows nice clean passing, good pace, and is always eager to get forward and support the attack.
Manager: Conner Watts – Port Sebastian Port Sebastian really look as if they are going to be one of the top sides from this early stage in the UICA era of Schottic football. With sides like Handon United and Soessch struggling to adapt, perhaps we have to consider the fact that there may have been a shift in the balance of power.
Player: Kel Koromin —Cornellians It took the Cenian a little while to settle, but that is reasonable, after the pressure of have to fight to win his place following such a high profile transfer. Koromin is now firing on all cylinders, and at this rate might even be on track for the coveted golden boot.
Young Player: Alyssa Haight – Marionville One of a handful of Nepharim academy rejects to have come to Schottia over the last few seasons and made a name for themselves, Haight has been putting in some strong performances for The Old Boys on the left wing. Seems to have adjusted to the style and pace of the SPL well, and definitely looks like one of the more consistent performers.
Manager: Aleaxander Pearce -- Cornellians Cornellians have had to really grind out the results this season, but whatever they are doing - it is working well. Now that the side are starting to put some results together, they will no doubt be able to establish themselves at the top soon enough.
Player: Erin Braden -- Kings Park Things have been a bit up and down for the Royals, but you would imagine they will finish their or their abouts at the end of the season. Braden has been a really success story since making the step up to co-ed football, and her partnership with Sendoa in the heart of the Kings Park midfield has been a crucial part of her side's achievements.
Young Player: Tsumugi Narita-- Cornellians The little midfielder, who stared for Kirisaki at the Di Bradini Cup, has been pulling the strings for Cornellians in the midfield this season. Dynamic, and great passer of the ball, it is hard to believe that she is still only a teenager.
Manager: John Sedder -- Lammerton Lammerton might have dropped off the top spot, but when you compare their squad with that of Cornellians, the players' work rate really has to be taken into account. John Seeder is really starting to look like manager of the year material already.
Mucusia 3–2 FC Soessch D'Itille 1–2 Port Sebastian Regional Development Side A 2–1 Lammerton Snubbeack Rock 3–5 Cornellians
Schottic Cup -- Semi-finals
Mucusia 2–0 Port Sebastian Regional Development Side A 3–3 Cornellians (3–3 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Posted: Thu May 26, 2016 4:26 am
by Schottia
Matchday twenty-six - thirty-eight & Awards
SPL New Belfast Warriors 3–1 Dundee Jena VB 0–3 Hollin Cornellians 2–3 New Island La Gorlions 1–3 Port Sebastian New Belfast Blues 1–5 Handon United Kings Park 4–4 Mucusia Lammerton 3–2 Marionville FC Soessch 3–0 Port James Athletic Port Patrick United 0–1 D'Itille Handon North 1–3 Granton Vale
Following a shock 3-2 defeat at home to New Island, Cornellians must be left wondering how this could have happened. The Eagles had been sitting comfortably at the top of the league, but the result now allows Lammerton back on top thanks to a 3-2 win over Marionville. It was seemingly born-again winger Xander Cross, who did the damage for New Island, as even Triffid Ramsey struggled to pick the 31-year-old up. In the end it was his cross on 79 minutes, which set up Kevin McCrorry to give their side a memorable win. Lammerton had a similarly hard slog, but at least they were on the winning end of it, as they took on Marionville. Timo Düd's goal on 64 minutes was the difference in an otherwise tight match. Port Sebastian also took advantage, closing to within one point of Cornellians, with an excellent 3-1 win over La Gorlions. Porty finally got clearance to take on loan, Quebecois forward Leonardo Conavacio, who has been training with the Handon side for most of the season after the Guayabalense Liga Premier went on strike. Conavacio came on at half time in this match and showed no signs of rust scoring the side's third thanks to an a assist from Kirisakian winger Chiyoko Sakuraka. Handon United needed a big win to settle a few nerves, and they got it with a 5-1 win at NBB. Alfred Seggerson's free kick was the highlight of the match for the visitors, but there were also goals for Serge Mavididi (2), Devon Carranza-Jones, and Aya Bernman, as United ran riot. In other matches, Flora Klee scored a double, as Mucusia held Kings Park 4-4 in Handon. Archic, Kurugaya, and O'Callahan were all on target for The Warriors as they defeated Dundee. And finally, FC Soessch put in a solid performance, firing three past Port James for no reply.
SPL Handon North 0–3 New Belfast Warriors Granton Vale 1–1 Port Patrick United D'Itille 1–2 FC Soessch Port James Athletic 0–2 Lammerton Marionville 1–0 Kings Park Mucusia 1–2 New Belfast Blues Handon United 1–0 La Gorlions Port Sebastian 2–3 Cornellians New Island 1–0 Jena VB Hollin 3–1 Dundee
The main event this week was Cornellians visit to Port Sebastian, with so much on the line for both sides. In a match where things got a little messy The Eagles edged it 3-2, and a second half penalty from Eloise Purinton ended up being the difference between the two sides. The match was marred by scuffles however, with seven yellow cards shown, and a bust-up between the players in the tunnel following the game. Lammerton had no such difficulties however, as they stayed top of the table with a 2-0 win at Port James Athletic. Jasper Valaren picked out Mars Alexandersson with a timely through pass to open the scoring on 23 minutes, and The Western Sunriser grabbed a second late on, following a nod down from Merry Osbourne in the six-yard-box. New Belfast Warriors also clung on to title contention with a 3-0 win over Handon North. The Scholars were never really in the game, and now seem confined to their fate, propping up the table for the most part. The Warriors on the other hand treated us to some fast flowing football, with an excellent Tomás Fierro strike on 12 minutes getting the ball rolling. The Whalers added two more through Craig O'Maramy, and Jenny Lundergrand in the second half. In other matches; the Handon United bounce continues with a 1-0 win against La Gorlions thanks to an Isaac Nketiah strike. And FC Soessch's fortunes continued to improve with a 2-1 win over D'Itille, with goals from Bruno Schwartz and Sara Foucault.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 1–1 Hollin Dundee 2–0 New Island Jena VB 0–3 Port Sebastian Cornellians 3–3 Handon United La Gorlions 0–1 Mucusia New Belfast Blues 1–1 Marionville Kings Park 5–3 Port James Athletic Lammerton 4–2 D'Itille FC Soessch 0–0 Granton Vale Port Patrick United 2–2 Handon North
It's all swings an roundabouts at the top of the SPL table, as Lammerton have now opened up a lead over Conellians, following their 4-2 win at home to D'Itille. The Eagles, for all their efforts the week before, could only manage a 3-3 draw with Handon United, which will in fact do neither side much good. Lammerton had John Cooper to thank for their win, with the Hornets' captain scoring one either side of half time to give his side the edge in an otherwise close game. For Cornellians it was a case of one step forward and one step back in their match. The Eagles found themselves constantly pegged back, despite being the better side for long periods of the game. Port Sebastian's 3-0 over Jena will go some way towards repairing the damage they withstood the week before. Leonardo Conavacio was on target once again in this match, as he made his first start for the club. Demba Traore, and Emiline Millet were also on target for Porty in what was a clinical display. Kings Park badly needed a win this week and they got it in dramatic style, defeating Port James Athletic 5-3 at Lochely Park. In this eight-goal-thriller there were goals for Estelle Conway, Francis Keelinan (2), Sendoa, and Darren O'Brian, but despite the Royals' attacking prowess, they looked very shake at the back for long periods. Elsewhere Port Patrick were held 2-2 as they played host to neighbours Handon North. Dundee swept aside New Island with goals from Steven Rexmont and Jacques. And a late Johnny Birch goal gave Marionville a share of the points at New Belfast Blues.
SPL Port Patrick United 0–2 New Belfast Warriors Handon North 1–3 FC Soessch Granton Vale 3–6 Lammerton D'Itille 0–2 Kings Park Port James Athletic 3–2 New Belfast Blues Marionville 4–0 La Gorlions Mucusia 0–2 Cornellians Handon United 3–1 Jena VB Port Sebastian 1–2 Dundee New Island 0–1 Hollin
There were nine goals scored in this week's lunchtime kick-off between Lammerton and Granton Vale at Sea Park, as the Hornets' attackers sent a clear message to the chasing pack. John Sedder's players put six past the home side, four of them coming in a twenty-minute period of the second half, where the Beachcombers seemed to switch off. The visitors treated us to a great exhibition of football, along with some clever passing and clinical finishing in a match where they could have scored even more. Merry Osbourne was the star of the show this week, as Brenecian added another two to her total this season. Cornellians were looking for a big result this week after their frustrating draw with Handon United, and they got back to winning ways against Mucusia. The Eagles opened the scoring early on through Cosmin Dobrescu, after the Jedorian did well to get the better of Gavin Richardson. The 29-year-old then did what he does best, slamming his shot past Mike Hare in the Mucusia goal. Dobrescu also had a hand in the second, his free kick starting the wheels in motion in a move which cumulated in Kel Koromin finding the net. It would be unfair to say there weren't any chances for the home side, but Cornellians generally looked good, riding out a 2-0 victory. With three wins - and a draw with Cornellians - in their last four games it's fair to say that things seem to have picked up a bit for Handon United. 20-year-old Christian Lovenkrands was a different class, as he pulled Jena this way and that for the hour he was on the pitch. The Semar had a hand in United's first two goals; squaring the ball for Serge Mavididi to hammer in number one, winning the corner which Nathaniel Bueno-Wells nodded in for the side's second. Despite having to weather a nervy five minutes after Jay Clayton pulled one back for Jena, United put the game to bed with a third goal from debutant Nagisa Habane. The Kirisakian's goal at the age of thirteen, made her the SPL's youngest ever goal scorer, taking the crown from Caitlin L'Attue, who was fifteen years and eight days. In other matches, Port Sebastian had new signing Leonardo Conavacio sent off in their 2-1 defeat to Dundee, Marionville looked in total control as they breezed past La Gorlions 4-0, and New Belfast Warriors proved their metal with 2-0 win away to Port Patrick United.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 2–1 New Island Hollin 4–5 Port Sebastian Dundee 0–0 Handon United Jena VB 0–2 Mucusia Cornellians 4–4 Marionville La Gorlions 2–0 Port James Athletic New Belfast Blues 2–2 D'Itille Kings Park 1–0 Granton Vale Lammerton 2–2 Handon North FC Soessch 4–2 Port Patrick United
Nerves are really starting to show now, as the teams round the final corner, and the finish line comes into full view. The pressure now certainly seems to be affecting Cornellians, and Lammerton, with both sides hobbling to draws this weekend against Marionville and Handon North. For Cornellians, a share of the points didn't even look on the cards at half time, as they trailed The Old Boys 3-1. Alexander Pearce's players dug deep however, and two goals from, Eula Richard and Kathryn Kvanderwyk in the closing stages, denied the visitors all three points. For Lammerton it was the opposite problem, as they saw a 2-0 lead evaporate, as they were pegged back by a Scholars side who had little left to lose. The Hornets seemed to be coasting with half an hour to go after John Cooper and Jasper Valaren had put them 2-0 up. However, whenever North achieve anything, you can normally bet Evangeline Querón will be at the thick of it, and that was the case today. The feisty little attacker set up the side's equaliser three minutes from the end, dropping the ball into the path of David Carter to level the scores after Flipp West had scored the side's first. With Conavacio serving a one-match ban it was a more conventional looking Port Sebastian line-up as they took on The Belker County's finest, Hollin. In a match where the lead changed hands several times, Porty can count themselves lucky that they escaped with all three points. Hollin battled hard, and in particular 21-year-old Neil Brown in the middle of the park looked very comfortable on the ball. By contrast, Port Sebastian never looked comfortable, and there would have been a lot of nervous faces in stands before Joey Bia scored his side's winning goal. Arguably, the on form side in the league right now are New Belfast Warriors, who look like making the UICA spots for the first time since Schottia entered the competitions. Some nice passing from Holly Addison released youngster Miki Kurugaya for the side's first on 17 minutes, only for New Island's Xander Cross to equalise ten minutes later. The Whalers kept their cool however, and went home with all three points, after a Adrienne O'Callahan cross found the head of substitute Jenny Lundergrand for the team's second. In other matches; La Gorlions put on a good display beating Port James 2-0, Francis Keelinan's goal helped Kings Park past Granton Vale, and Laura Smith was woman of the match as Mucusia defeat Jena VB.
SPL FC Soessch 2–3 New Belfast Warriors Port Patrick United 5–4 Lammerton Handon North 2–6 Kings Park Granton Vale 3–3 New Belfast Blues D'Itille 0–0 La Gorlions Port James Athletic 4–4 Cornellians Marionville 4–3 Jena VB Mucusia 0–1 Dundee Handon United 2–0 Hollin Port Sebastian 1–0 New Island
With 4-4 fast becoming Cornellians' favourite score line, people must be starting to ask what has happened to the side's ability to close out matches. This time it was Port James Athletic's turn to frustrate the Eagles, when the reigning champions took a trip to The City Stadium. Despite goals from Koromin, Puriton, Ramsey, and Sturridge, Alexander Pearce's players only went home with one point, as they had to watch Port Sebastian and The Warriors close right up on them. Port Sebastian had Conavacio back for this game, but it wasn't the kind of game where the attackers were able to put on much of a show. With New Island coming to town to defend, it was always going to the be the odd goal that would settle matters, and that fell to Kaija Koppel on 55 minutes. Like Corenllians, Lammerton also had the kind of afternoon they would rather forget, in another high scoring match with Port Patrick. The Hornets didn't resemble their normal ruthless selves, as poor defending cost the dear in a match they really needed to win. It is probably fair to say that pressure is now getting the better of a side more used to fighting for fourth spot, than the title. Handon United kept their slither of hope alive with a business like performance against Hollin, with two first half goals from Mirka Shitakuari and Isaac Nketiah, the difference on the day. This weekend there was also a massive win for Kings Park, who managed to defeat Handon North 6-2. With two strikers, Conway and Keelinan, both with their scoring boots on, scoring goals has not been one of The Royals' problems this time round.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 0–1 Port Sebastian New Island 1–0 Handon United Hollin 0–0 Mucusia Dundee 0–1 Marionville Jena VB 3–1 Port James Athletic Cornellians 4–2 D'Itille La Gorlions 1–2 Granton Vale New Belfast Blues 4–1 Handon North Kings Park 4–4 Port Patrick United Lammerton 2–2 FC Soessch
After a handful of calamitous results, Cornellians finally found the win the so badly needed at home to D'Itille. For a third match in a row the Eagles scored four, but this time (remarkably) they didn't concede four at the other end. It wasn't the prettiest match, and at times the Cornellians passing game came unstuck a little, but at the sharp end they certainly have what it takes. The Eagles opened the scoring early on, as Rachel Mercurier's run to the edge of the box opened up the opportunity for Eloisa Purinton to tuck the ball away. They then added a second before the break when a Dobrescu corner picked out Scott Burton at the back post for the defender's second goal of the campaign. D'Itille pulled one back after the break through Callum Frir, but second half goals from Kel Koromin, and Casey Brind meant that the game was over as a contest long before the final whistle. New Belfast Warriors at Ashley Road it a tough fixture for any side, so Port Sebastian will have been happy enough with the smash and grab win, thank you very much. In truth, neither side really created the kind of chances that would merit taking all three points, and a draw would have been a perfectly fair result. Porty had other ideas however, and ten minutes from the end, Quebecois livewire Conavacio robbed Tomás Fierro of possession in a robest challenge, before feeding the ball through to countrywoman Giancoma de Jerusalem for the only goal of the game. This week also gave us a pulsating fixture as Kings Park and Port Patrick played out a great game at Lochely Green, in the battle for the top half of the table. Both sides could have easily won it, and after a display like this, the biggest question is; why are these teams not higher up the league? Young Connie Malone was particularly impressive for The Breakers, getting her name on the score sheet in this game - and Erin Braden was again a rock in the heart of The Royals midfield, fuelling rumours that a cap may be in the offing. Finally: Lammerton are now in danger of slipping off the pace with yet anther draw, this time with FC Soessch. Handon United were beaten 1-0 on their trip to New Island. And Marionville climb further up the table with a 1-0 win at Dundee.
SPL Lammerton 2–1 New Belfast Warriors FC Soessch 1–0 Kings Park Port Patrick United 0–0 New Belfast Blues Handon North 0–1 La Gorlions Granton Vale 0–2 Cornellians D'Itille 0–1 Jena VB Port James Athletic 1–0 Dundee Marionville 1–0 Hollin Mucusia 0–0 New Island Handon United 0–1 Port Sebastian
There is no match in Schottic football, which is played with more passion than the Handon Derby. There are several sides from the capital in the SPL at present, but the Derby with a capital D, has always been United verses Porty. Even though United were at home, there was always the feeling going into this one that Port Sebastian were the favourites, and that proved indeed to be the case. In what must have been a hard match for manager Carl Sorensen to watch, the home side were just less up for it, slower to very loose ball, and looked less willing to go forward. Port Sebastian got the goal they thoroughly deserved ten minutes from the end, after some great play from Emilne Millet releasing Demba Traore to score in front of the away fans. Lammerton's 2-1 win over New Belfast Warriors at The City Ground has probably now puts pay to the Whalers' title chances. It was certainly a must win game for Graeme Collins' side, and the way they set themselves up, showed just how much they wanted the three points. The Warriors took the game to Lammerton in the first half, but as is so often the way, they found themselves a goal down after a Merry Osbourne strike against the run of play. Although New Belfast worked hard to get back into the match, pulling level through Craig O'Maramy, it was to be the Hornets who had the final say with Mars Alexandersson putting them back in front. Cornellians' made it two wins out of two as they chase a second league title on the bounce, and made light work of Granton Vale, thanks to two first half goals from Kel Koromin and Kathryn Kvanderwyk. There were also wins this week for FC Soessch who defeated Kings Park 1-0, and La Gorlions who beat Handon North by a similar score line.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 1–2 Handon United Port Sebastian 1–2 Mucusia New Island 1–0 Marionville Hollin 0–1 Port James Athletic Dundee 3–3 D'Itille Jena VB 3–4 Granton Vale Cornellians 1–1 Handon North La Gorlions 0–1 Port Patrick United New Belfast Blues 0–3 FC Soessch Kings Park 2–2 Lammerton
It was a week that told us precious little in our search for this year's champions, with all the sides in the top four dropping points. Port Sebastian were first to be left shell shocked following a 2-1 defeat to Mucusia at home. After Loanee striker Leonardo Conavacio put Porty 1-0 up after only seven minutes, it looked like the side were coasting, however, last season's runners-up were perhaps guilty of taking their young opponents for granted. Mucusia play a very patient possession football with lots of fast one touch passing, and it just seemed as if Port Sebastian lost the plot in the second half, giving away needless fouls and with them dangerous free kicks. Mucusia first pulled level with a strike from Daineri midfielder Ryuni, after the player did well to find the space to get her shot away. The Eusebians then took home all three points, after Flora Klee finished from close range, with a proper striker's goal. Lammerton faired slightly better, but Kings Park are tough opponents at the best of times, and it was never going to be an easy match at Lochely Park. The Royals wasted no time in going one up, as a Yuiko Kasugano cross met the boot of Francis Keelinan in the six-yard-box. Lammerton pulled level from the penalty spot, after Jasper Valaren was upended by Peter Dachs - John Cooper it was who coolly converted from 12 yards out. The Hornets then got their noses in front after Robard Horvat ha powerful drive from the edge of the area. Cliff Smith saved the initial strike, but as the ball bounced loose Mars Alexandersson was on hand to apply the finish. Back to back defeats, albeit to very good sides, have now made it nearly mathematically impossible for The Warriors to win the title for the first time in four years. Handon United were the guilty party this week, as they gave their fans something to cheer about following a dismal season. Tameka Ninetyseventh, and Isaac Nketiah were on target for United, and although Ivan Archic pulled one back for The Whalers, a draw would have flattered the side. In other matches: Cornellians' inability to close out the game against Handon North cost them dearly. Soessch, put in a top-class performance as they defeated NBB in New Belfast. And Port Patrick looked very comfortable, as they won 1-0 against La Gorlions.
SPL Kings Park 2–4 New Belfast Warriors Lammerton 1–1 New Belfast Blues FC Soessch 2–0 La Gorlions Port Patrick United 1–2 Cornellians Handon North 1–2 Jena VB Granton Vale 0–1 Dundee D'Itille 1–1 Hollin Port James Athletic 1–0 New Island Marionville 1–0 Port Sebastian Mucusia 0–2 Handon United
Cornellians moved back to the top of the table with a 2-1 win over Port Patrick as the league reached its critical phase. After a cagey first half, with the sides going up the tunnel tied at 1-1, Pearce must have worked some of his magic. It was a much stronger Eagles side which emerged in the second half, looking much sharper, and ready to battle for the points. Port Patrick have a real gritty energy about them and are tough to break down, but they were powerless to prevent the visitors' winning goal. After making a blistering run down the left, Triffid Ramsey sent a stinging ball across the six yard line, which was directed in by Cosmin Dobrescu. With Lammerton drawing 1-1 with NBB, the Jedorian's goal could prove to be crucial in the title race. Things are now looking quite precarious at the bottom for Granton Vale, as despite going into the season promising so much, they find themselves in a dogfight to stay up. This weekend they faired no better, with Steven Rexmont's free kick enough to give Dundee all three points at Sea Park. The visitors, by contrast, are having an excellent season, and have a great chance now to finish in the top ten. For another small side harbouring hopes of a top-half finish, the train has probably now left the station, as Mucusia were beaten 2-0 by United. Handon United have had a dreadful season by their own high standards, but they still had enough about them to dispose of the Eusebians. One player, Christian Lovenkrads has really put himself in the spot light this season, with some fantastic performances on the right wing, and the club my have trouble holding on to him long term. The 20-year-old Semar was on the score sheet again today, latching onto a neat Alf Seggerson layoff to power home his side's second. With Marionville picking up a surprise win over Port Sebastian, The Warriors must have been sensing that third place was not out of the question, as they really took the match to Kings Park. In a dominant second half display, The Warriors scored three times, through Tomás Fierro, Ivan Archic, and Holly Addison to run out 4-2 winners. Finally, FC Soessch continued to finish the season strongly, with a 2-0 win over La Gorlions. Bergstadt's finest deserved their three points, in a match where Johan Shearer, and Sara Foucault were on the score sheet.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Mucusia Handon United 1–2 Marionville Port Sebastian 0–1 Port James Athletic New Island 1–1 D'Itille Hollin 4–1 Granton Vale Dundee 1–0 Handon North Jena VB 2–1 Port Patrick United Cornellians 4–3 FC Soessch La Gorlions 0–2 Lammerton New Belfast Blues 3–1 Kings Park
The pick of this week's matches was FC Soessch's visit to League leaders Cornellians. This was a one of the potential banana skins for the Champions, if they were going to defend their title, and they would have been well aware that a win here would mean that they had the option of the draw when they travelled to Lammerton in the title decider next week. The visitors were going to give it everything they had, as they knew that a good run-in from here could hand them a fifth place finish. As one could have predicted, it was a match with a lot to talk about with seven goals and not without its controversy. In the end The Eagles did what they needed to do, and took home all three points, with two late goals for Kel Koromin, and Casey Brind. The game was finely poise for most of the 90 minutes and it could have gone either way. That is why the Cenian's 84th minute winner would have meant so much to the side as they look to be the first side in seven years to retain the title. Lammerton also did what they needed to do, a 2-0 win over La Gorlions, meaning that if they can get the better of Cornellians next week, then the title could be theirs. There has been a feeling for a long time that the cracks have been starting to show in this Hornet's side, not at all used to being in this position at this point in the season. One of the massive differences between Lammerton and Cornellians is experience; and it seems now - at the sharp end of the season - to be telling. Despite their nerves there was no slip up this week with Merry Osbourne and Timo Düd scoring the goals which got them past a La Gorlions side that seem to be running out of steam. In other matches: Port Sebastian seem to be another side taking in water, as they lost yet again to Athletic by a single goal. New Belfast Warriors took advantage of their misfortune with a 1-0 win over Mucusia. And New Belfast Blues will hope that their 3-1 win over Kings Park is enough to keep them up.
SPL New Belfast Blues 0–1 New Belfast Warriors Kings Park 1–2 La Gorlions Lammerton 1–2 Cornellians FC Soessch 0–0 Jena VB Port Patrick United 2–3 Dundee Handon North 1–2 Hollin Granton Vale 0–1 New Island D'Itille 1–5 Port Sebastian Port James Athletic 1–3 Handon United Marionville 2–2 Mucusia
It pretty much all came down to this match: Cornellians on 78 points, Lammerton on 76. The Hornets knew that with home advantage over last season's Champions many would be picking them out as title favourites. On the balance of play, over the entire season, this wouldn't even be an extreme statement. Given where Lammerton had gathered some of this team from, it would have been an incredible achievement for John Sedder, who will have done his CV no harm at all this year. Things got of the perfect start at the Lammerton City Ground, with Jasper Valaren slipping the ball through to John Cooper, to give the home side the lead. The entire stadium were in raptures, as the fans were beginning to sense their first SPL title in over thirty years. However, their celebrations were to be short lived, as the Eagles equalised minutes before the half time whistle. Alexander Pearce's side weren't going down without a fight, and they illustrated their star quality, when Tsumugi Narita's clever pass for Kel Koromin pulled them back level. As the match developed, it was Lammerton who were now chasing the result, and they went close on a number of occasions, most notable Merry Osbourne's header, which drifted narrowly over. Amidst the constant pressure, it was always inevitable that Cornellians would get their chance on the break, and they knew that one more goal would mean they could seal the title there and then. When the chance came, there would have been no surprises that it fell to captain Eloisa Purinton, and the Gloriaxian scored the goal, which saw her side crowned champions for the third time in four years. With most of the places now becoming settled, much of the attention shifted to Port Sebastian and The Warriors' battle for third spot. Considering that Porty seem to have lost their mojo of late, their 5-1 win over D'Itille will have been a pleasant surprise. Demba Traore (2), Conavacio, Joey Bia, and Emiline Millet all scored in a resounding win for the Handon side. In other matches, The Warriors edged the New Belfast Derby 1-0 thanks to a goal from Miki Kurugaya. Dundee found an excellent 3-2 win over Port Patrick, which moves them up the table. And Hollin's 2-1 win over Handon North is now enough to ensure their safety.
SPL New Belfast Warriors 6–4 Marionville Mucusia 0–0 Port James Athletic Handon United 2–0 D'Itille Port Sebastian 4–5 Granton Vale New Island 3–1 Handon North Hollin 0–1 Port Patrick United Dundee 0–3 FC Soessch Jena VB 1–3 Lammerton Cornellians 4–2 Kings Park La Gorlions 3–0 New Belfast Blues
For most of the side, it was just pride left to play for, so we switch our attention to a fascinating battle at the bottom of the table, between two sides few of us predicted would be in trouble. Granton Vale went into the final fixture three points and four goals behind rivals New Belfast Blues, with both sides facing difficult away matches. For Granton Vale they had to pay a visit to Port Sebastian who were themselves locked in a fierce battle for third place with the Warriors. NBB on the other hand had to make the trip up the mountains to face La Gorlions. The Lions, in La Gorla, is widely regarded as one of the toughest matches on the calendar due to the high altitude, and The Blues struggled accordingly. Given what was at stake, the relegation threatened side couldn't so much as put up a fight, as they were played off the park by the dominant Lions midfield. The Blues simply had no one in their side who could go toe to toe with Jade Irwin, and the Nepharim girl almost played them off the park in a match which ended 3-0. Granton Vale by contrast, weren't going down without a fight, and actually produced some of the football we had expected from them at the start of the season as they took the game to Porty. At one point The Beachcombers opened up a 4-1 lead, a result which would have seen them to safety. But in a cruel twist, Port Sebastian who were playing for little other than pride, brought on Quebecois Loanee, Leonardo Conavacio, in what will likely be his last match for the club. The attacker produced some magic, scoring one and setting up one, as he helped Porty to level the scores at 4-4. In a dramatic finish to the game Jack Hobbs scored for Granton deep into stoppage time, but the curtain came down on four season in the top flight, as they were relegated on Goals-For, with hapless New Blefast Blues staying up. The result also meant that The Warriors secured third place with 6-4 win over Kings Park, in what is the side's best finish since they lifted the title five years ago. In other matches, both Lammerton and Champions elect Cornellians won their final fixtures, not that it had much of an affect on the outcome. FC Soessch won 3-0 at Dundee to finish 6th, a very respectable position for the club that has struggled so much recently. And Handon United secured fifth spot with a 2-0 win over relegated D'Itille.
Monthly Awards:
Player: Tomás Fierro -- New Belfast Warriors After a difficult time at Ninon Beart in the Northern Sunrise Islands, the young Cenian is now showing much of his early promise. The Warriors managed to stave of interest from Handon United during the summer, and after some of his performances this season, they will be glad that they held out.
Young Player: Liam Goncalves -- Dundee The young Christopheran is a left-back come wing-forward who uses his pace and athleticism command the entire left flank. He is typical of many of the young players coming through the ranks at Dundee at the moment, and signing the 17-year-old up on a long-term contract will be Jock Sonny's priority this summer.
Manager: Graeme Collins -- New Belfast Warriors After three seasons of ups and downs the Warriors are finally back to looking like the kind of team that could challenge for the title. With further improvement over the summer there is no reason to think they won't be challenging at the top of the table next year.
Player: Christian Lovenkrands -- Handon United A fantastic natural right-winger - videos of the Semar's games should be handed to young kids training to play in that position. Handon United fans wouldn't have had much of an idea who the player was when the joined the club two years ago, but they certainly know now.
Young Player: Mars Alexandersson -- Lammerton Another player plucked out of nowhere, Alexandersson quickly established herself as one of the main instigators in the Hornets attack. Her rise has closely mirrored that of her team's.
Manager: Basil Bunton -- Marionville Marionville have had to endure a frustrating season at times, with some poor results, despite playing well. The final third has been far more productive for the Old Boys however, as they have made up for some lost time, climbing back up the table.
Player: Casey Brind -- Cornellians Brind was sitting pretty low in the water in the Nepharim Premiership, but her move to Cornellians see to have given the 34-year-old a second wind. The former Vermillion Rage star has been utterly consistent through out this season for the league champions.
Young Player: Sara Foucault -- FC Soessch Great technique from a young striker who has been knocking on the door of a move to the SPL for a long time. Foucault has had to make a big step up, going from Mucusia to a side like Soessch where the pressure is through the roof, but the girl has handled it well.
Manager: Jock Sonny -- Dundee A fantastic season and an 8th place finish, which came out of nowhere for Dundee. How they will go on from here is difficult to say, but their run-in at the end of the season was very impressive.
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cornellians 38 25 9 4 101 64 +37 84 Champions Cup; Cygnus Cup 2 Lammerton 38 24 7 7 87 51 +36 79 Globe Cup 3 New Belfast Warriors 38 21 10 7 70 48 +22 73 Globe Cup 4 Port Sebastian 38 21 7 10 73 48 +25 70 Globe Cup 5 Handon United 38 19 8 11 63 42 +21 65 6 FC Soessch 38 17 12 9 54 39 +15 63 7 Marionville 38 17 10 11 82 69 +13 61 8 Dundee 38 17 8 13 39 38 +1 59 9 Kings Park 38 16 8 14 73 66 +7 56 10 Port Patrick United 38 15 7 16 62 63 −1 52 11 Port James Athletic 38 14 10 14 50 61 −11 52 12 La Gorlions 38 14 8 16 43 45 −2 50 13 Mucusia 38 12 9 17 39 50 −11 45 14 New Island 38 12 7 19 38 45 −7 43 15 Hollin 38 10 10 18 43 53 −10 40 16 New Belfast Blues 38 8 14 16 51 64 −13 38 17 Granton Vale 38 9 11 18 50 64 −14 38 relegated 18 D'Itille 38 7 14 17 45 71 −26 35 relegated 19 Jena VB 38 8 7 23 45 82 −37 31 relegated 20 Handon North 38 0 12 26 28 73 −45 12 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: John Cooper -- Lammerton For a 29-year-old, who has never really been heralded as one of Schottia's outstanding talents, this award will come as a massive achievement. The player has done exactly what was asked of him, week in and week out, as he dug deep and came up with the goals. His partnership with Merry Osbourne in the attack has been so important to the side's title challenge. It has been remarkable to see a bit-part player with one Schottic cap to his name, team up with a former A-League reserve and take on the top internationalist of Conellians and Handon United.
2nd: Jade Irwin -- La Gorlions The transformation in Jade Irwin is incredible. From the 20-year-old, severely lacking in confidence after being released from Crisisbless United - to a cultured young midfielder who takes every game in her stride. Many people will feel that first place should have been her's on merit, and there was perhaps a slight Schottic bias and sentimentality in handing the award to John Cooper. What is maybe most remarkable about Irwin is the fact that she plays for a small club not exactly renowned for its subtle passing football. In a side, surrounded by 185cm bruisers, Irwin is the one in the middle who keeps things flowing.
3rd: Jack Baxter -- Port Sebastian Rolling back the clock, veteran Jack Baxter has been showing us all that he still has what it takes. Playing in the heart of the Port Sebastian midfield for more than a decade now, the team captain and former Schottia cap has had to weather some ups and downs this season. Baxter is a constant source of inspiration and leadership in the midfield, even when things haven’t been going right.
4th: Kel Koromin -- Cornellians There must be a lot of pressure on a player, who is head and shoulders the biggest signing in the leagues history. The $20M transfer from Tir Snake Strike beat the previous record by some 13 million, as Cornellians set about building a team that could challenge in the UICA competitions. Despite this pressure Kormin equipped himself well, and showed just why so many clubs were chasing his signature. With 27 goals he was the league's joint top scorer, as he help steer Cornellians to the league title.
5th: Tomás Fierro -- New Belfast Warriors The second Cenian on this list, after something of an influx in recent years. Fierro has been at the heart of The Warriors' revival, and what's more, his performances seem to be improving. The player moves the ball well, and is quick to track back when the side are on the back foot. Only time will tell how far the 21-year-old can go in the sport.
1st: 27 John Cooper -- Lammerton | Kel Koromin -- Cornellians
3rd: 25 Eloisa Purinton -- Cornellians
4th: 23 Demba Traore -- Port Sebastian
5th: 22 Isaac Nketiah -- Handon United | Merry Osbourne -- Lammerton | Giancoma de Jerusalem -- Port Sebastian | Ivan Archic -- Warriors
9th: 20 Francis Keelinan -- Kings Park | Aimée Hétu -- Mucusia | Isaac Nketiah -- Handon United | Miki Kurugaya -- New Belfast Warriors
Young Player of The Year: 1st: Jade Irwin -- La Gorlions See Player of the year Award.
2nd: Tomás Fierro -- New Belfast Warriors See Player of the year Award.
3rd: Christian Lovenkrads -- Handon United The lightning quick right-winger has been the main positive for Handon United fans in an otherwise poor season, which saw them miss out on the UICA spots. At only twenty years of age there is no doubt that Lovenkrands could go on to become a word-class player.
4th: Tsumugi Narita -- Cornellians Tsumugi is a deep-sitting playmaker who, along with Eula Richard, forms the base of most of Cornellians' play. The Kirisakian is a very neat player, who can get forward and support the attack, as well as protecting the back four. With skill and technique in abundance, it is easy to see why she has become a firm fans' favourite.
5th: Mars Alexandersson -- Lammerton Alexandersson is now firmly established as one of the best players in the league having been a major part of Lammerton's success over the last two year. The Western Sunrise Islander can be unplayable some days, combining an all-action style with great passing and invention.
Long-list: Isaac Nketiah (Handon United), Robard Horvat (Lammerton), Liam Goncalves (Dundee), Steven Rexmont (Dundee), Jasper Valaren (Lammerton)
Manger of The Year: 1st: John Sedder -- Lammerton This award might have gone to Alexander Pearce for leading Cornellians to back-to-back titles, but instead they have gone for Lammerton boss John Sedder. With a fraction of The Eagles' budget, Lammerton pushed them to the end and very nearly snatched the title with two games to go.
2nd: Alexander Pearce -- Cornellians Two titles in two years, three in four. It can't really get much better for the Cosumarite who has completely rewritten the balance of power in the SPL. The test for him will come in the Champions Cup however, where he will know he has to improve.
3rd: Jock Sonny -- Dundee Working almost entirely with a bunch of homegrown youngsters. Dundee have gone from a side tipped for relegation to one that finished 8th in the league. Sonny seems like he can do nothing wrong at points, and this season will be yet another entry in his long list of achievements.
Signing of The Year: This is awarded to the incoming player who made the biggest impact relative to price, profile, and reputation.
Marcel Smith-Hammond -- Lammerton Signed from Döllar, $350K The fact that John Sedder picked out the defender, who was relegated last season with FC Döllar, only further underlines his quality as a manager. Smith-Hammond has been solid as a rock at the back for The Hornets this season and very much deserves his runners-up medal.
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 player can differ from those selected for the official awards, and normally come from the teams with the larger supports.
GK == Harry Gould DF == Esther Abner - Stephen Gargo - Marcel Smith-Hammond - Triffid Ramsey MF == Alfred Seggerson Jade Irwin - Mars Alexandersson FW == John Cooper -- Lammerton - Kel Koromin -- Cornellians - Demba Traore
Schottic Cup -- Final
Mucusia 0–1 Cornellians Goal: 33" Ramsey.
It was an eagerly anticipated final with one of the league's hottest up and coming sides going up against the double league champions, and it points it was hard to tell exactly which was which. Cornellians were on the back foot for most of the opening stages, as The Eusebians really took the game to their higher ranked opponents. Natalie Adams went close with a shot early on, which grazed the outside of the post; and Flora Klee drew a fine save from Jeremy McNott after 20 minutes. When Cornellians broke the deadlock it was very much against the run of play, with Triffid Ramsey running out of space at the end of a forward run and opting for a hit and hope. To the surprise of everyone in the stadium the shot flew into the top corner, and Ramsey ran off to celebrate, with the cheek to pretend she had meant it. Despite Mucusia's best efforts, there was no way back into the match for the side from Port James, and Cornellians went on to pull off the league-cup-double for the first time in their history.
Regional Divisions - Second Tier In a bid to make football more sustainable in Schottia the second tier is split into four Regional Divisions. This was in an attempt to cut down travel time for fans and players, while giving a greater number of sides a chance at promotion. The champions of each league win promotion to the SPL, and the side finishing bottom is relegated to the Regional Conference. Other sides may be relegated too depending on which sides come down from the SPL, keeping the number of teams in each league at ten.
Division A -Greater Handon, Marionville, New Belfast, and New Scotland.
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Snubbeack Rock 36 20 6 10 69 50 +19 66 Promoted 2 New Town Thistle 36 17 10 9 62 44 +18 61 3 Coldstream Farmers Union 36 18 6 12 44 42 +2 60 4 Regional Development Side D 36 16 11 9 60 47 +13 59 5 Berwick United 36 11 15 10 56 47 +9 48 6 Garvald 36 10 15 11 53 50 +3 45 7 Marasmont 36 12 5 19 49 56 −7 41 8 Bolton Green 36 11 8 17 40 58 −18 41 9 Arnahm 36 10 9 17 51 64 −13 39 10 Stevenson Wonderers 36 7 11 18 53 79 −26 32 Relegated
Series B Champions' Cup Play-offs
Semi-finals- Kirk Preston 1–1 Lammerton City (3–1 AET) Snubbeack Rock 3–2 Stalker Bay
Third place play-off- Lammerton City 3–2 Stalker Bay
Final- Snubbeack Rock 0–0 Kirk Preston (0–0 AET) (4–5 pen.) Kirk Preston, Snubbeack Rock, and Lammerton City Qualify for the Series B Champions' Cup
Youth Football - Junior Championship
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Regional Development Side D 30 19 8 3 65 31 +34 65 Champions 2 Handon United 30 18 8 4 61 30 +31 62 3 Regional Development Side A 30 17 8 5 55 35 +20 59 4 Port Sebastian 30 18 4 8 75 42 +33 58 5 Regional Development Side C 30 17 6 7 45 28 +17 57 6 Dundee 30 17 6 7 52 37 +15 57 7 Regional Development Side B 30 17 4 9 55 36 +19 55 8 Lammerton 30 17 3 10 48 34 +14 54 9 Handon Ladies 30 13 9 8 59 41 +18 48 10 Cornellians 30 11 9 10 49 37 +12 42 11 La Gorlions 30 8 4 18 32 60 −28 28 12 Marionville 30 7 5 18 25 51 −26 26 13 FC Soessch 30 4 7 19 27 59 −32 19 14 New Belfast Warriors 30 4 5 21 32 74 −42 17 15 Kings Park 30 3 5 22 27 70 −43 14 16 Port James Athletic 30 3 3 24 25 67 −42 12
Posted: Thu Jul 14, 2016 7:48 am
by Schottia
Schottic Premier League
2022-23
Preview -Part One-
Playing squads for the upcoming season, with provisional starting eleven, and notable reserves. Teams listed in no particular order.
------------------ Cornellians FC (formerly Cornellia) Stadium: Lochend Stadium, 80,000 Average attendance: 54,651 Manager: Alexander Pearce Colours: White and green shirts, white shorts. Location: Lochend (Greater Handon) Nick name: The Eagles ------------------
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GK. Jeremy McNott 27, RB. Rachel Mercurier 22, LB. Triffid Ramsey 27, CB. Scott Burton 27, (c) CB Stephan Gargo 24,
RM. Kit Kvanderwyk 24, LM. Eula Richard 26, CM. Tsumugi Narita 19, CM. Jade Irwin 22,
CF. Kathryn Kvanderwyk 20, CF Kel Koromin 24,
---subs---
GK. David Prince 24, RB. Rachel Mercurier 22, LB. John Yardlee 26, CB. Gary Hamilton 28,
RM. Jeff Dennis 34, RM. Mark Freute 22, DM. Lucius Hirtius Carus 26, CM. Casey Brind 35, AMC. Cosmin Dobrescu 30, AMC. Mabel Finnemark 21,
CF. Damien Sturridge 25, CF. Eloisa Purinton 26,
---Youth Players of note---
CM. Sumireko Karuizawa 13,
In. RM. Kit Kvanderwyk 24, < $10m CM. Jade Irwin 22, < $5m
Out.
The side form Lochend really seem to be getting into the swing now, since moving over from the MPL. A pretty solid squad of players, and a talented young manager who seems able to do no wrong, it would be silly to bet against them again this season. After some excruciating near misses, they will be hoping to make an impact in the UICA competitions too this year, after just failing to make the Globe Cup group phase last time round. After adding La Gorlions' talented Nepharim midfielder Jade Irwin, and Cosumarite internationalist Kit Kvanderwyk the Eagles will now fee they have a team, which can begin to challenge internationally.
Prediction: 1st. They finished very strong last season, and with the improvements they have made, it is likely to be a similar story.
Star player: Kel Koromin | Rising Star: Tsumugi Narita
International Competition: Champions' Cup
------------------ Handon Utd Stadium: Harbour Hill, 55,000 Average attendance: 51,373 Manager: Carl Sorensen Assistant: Karl Renardsen Colours: White and maroon with maroon shorts. Location: Handon Nick name: United ---------------------
Handon United had to endure a frustrating season last time round. Despite putting in some strong performances, nothing seemed to click for the capital side. Even with their fantastic playing squad, and some very talented young players coming through the ranks, Carl Sorensen’s side just missed out on UICA football. With the pace of Bernman, Lovenkrands, and Satō, United are a tricky team to play against, and their fans will be hoping for better than 5th place.
Prediction: 4th. United seemed to have slipped back a little, but we still see them doing better than last time.
Star Player: Alfred Seggerson | Rising Star: Christian Lovenkrands
------------------
Port Sebastian Stadium: Dyerton, 30,000 Average attendance: 29,875 Manager: Conner Watts Colours: Light blue, with dark blue shorts Location: Handon Nick name: Porty, or the Steel men
-------------------------
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GK Chris Gonzaö 30,
RB Esther Abner 23, LB Paul Doig 25, CB Max Peterson 30, CB Sloane Kirkland 23,
DM Louis Porter 28, CM Emeline Millet 25, AMR Jonathan Bia 23, / Dahamy ML/C Chiyoko Sakuraka 22,
FC Giancoma de Jerusalem 30, ST Demba Traore 23,
---subs---
CM Milo Mavor 25,
---Youth players of note---
Andrya Novkovic 16, Anglatia
In. Out.
Closing out the season seems to be a huge stumbling block for Porty, as the final third always proves to be their undoing. They will have to cope also with the retirement of club captain Jack Baxter, who has been a stalwart in the team for almost twenty years. While they will face difficulties, players like Joey Bia, Demba Traore, and Emiline Millet should be enough to see them in with a shout.
Prediction: 3th. Notoriously hard to call, but they are one of the sides with a chance of stopping Cornellians.
Star Player: Joey Bia | Rising Star: Andrya Novkovic
International Competition: Globe Cup
------------------ Lammerton Stadium: Lammerton City Ground, 24,000 Average attendance: 23,688 Manager: John Sedder Colours: Yellow and Black shirt, black shorts Location: Lammerton Nick name: The Hornets ------------------
------------------ GK Jim Black 25,
RB Paul Yarrow 26, LB Luke Svensson 20, Super Llamaland CB Marcel Smith-Hammond 27, CB Owen Betler 28,
CM Timo Düd 29, CM Jasper Valaren 19, CM Robard Horvat 21, OM Mars Alexandersson 20,
CF Merry Osbourne 31, CF John Cooper 30, (c)
---subs--- CM Lorna Wilson 20,
CF Wallace Solway 19,
In. LB Luke Svensson 20, Super Llamaland < University of Vargas. Free GK Jim Black 25, < New Belfast Blues. $1.9M Out.
Came within spitting distance of creating a huge shock last season as they nearly lifted the title, it is true to say that the Hornets are going through something of a golden period. There are no superstars in this side, just eleven round pegs in round holes, who all play for one another. The additions of Luke Svensson, and the highly rated Keeper Jim Black, should ensure they finish near the top once again.
Prediction: 2nd. Probably time we stopped expecting them to slip-up.
Star player: Mars Alexandersson | Rising Star: Jasper Valaren
International Competition: Globe Cup
------------------ New Belfast Warriors Stadium: Ashley Road, 22,000 Average attendance: 17,312 Manager: Graeme Collins Colours: Green and orange shirt, white shorts Location: New Belfast Nick name: The Whalers ---------------------
CM Holly Addison 26, CM Tomás Fierro 22, AML Adrienne O'Callahan 24, AMR Craig O'Maramy 27,
CF Ivan Archic 35, (c) ST Miki Kurugaya 20,
---subs--- ST Jenny Lundergrand 22 CF Ian Willson 21,
In. Out.
Last season saw the Warriors end a frustrating period of decline, with a third place finish, securing UICA football. Manager Graeme Collins seems to have got the ship back afloat, largely thinks to the stand out performances of Cenian Tomás Fierro in midfield. The New Belfast side looked a match for most of the sides at the top of the table, and they are in with a shout again this year.
Prediction: 5th. They will be in the scrap for the final two Globe Cup spots.
Star Player: Ivan Archic | Rising Star: Tomás Fierro
International Competition: Globe Cup
------------------ FC Soesch Stadium: Gannon park, 38,000 Average attendance: 25,229 Manager: Gary Stoot Colours: Scarlet and Black stripes Location: Soessch Nick name: Die rote Teufel
-------------------
------------------- GK Harry Gould 23,
RB Ryan Stoner 33, LB Stav Nattermann 33, CB Robert Wessel 31 CB Chris Okywä 33,
CM Till Ümann 25, AMR Johan Shearer 24, AML Christopher Dickson 27, AMC Konstantin Holstad 30, (c)
CF. Sara Foucault 22, CF Bruno Schwartz 32,
---subs--- RB Mark Walker 30, LB/M Jan Ümann 23, CF Broad Dalehun 24,
In. Out.
We saw much needed improvements from FC Soessch last season, as they finished in a respectable league place. Their fans will be looking for more however, and the pressure will be on Christopheran manager Gary Stoot to produce results.
Prediction: 9th. Similar to last season.
Star Player: Johan Shearer | Rising Star: Sara Foucault
------------------ King's Park Stadium: Lochely Green, 14,000 Average attendance: 12,140 Manager: Eric Desmond (player-manager) Colours: Navy Blue shirt, white shorts. Location: Handon Nick name: The Royals ------------------
------------------
GK Cliff Smith 34,
RB Jack Gordon 35, LB Deigo Marr 32, CB Peter Gaunt 30, CB Richard Dachs 24,
CM Erin Braden 24, CM Sendoa 20, RM Yuiko Kasugano 18, AML Darren O'Brian 29,
CF Francis Keelinan 28, (c) FC Kaija Koppel 23, (Schottia)
---subs---
CM Jake Halls 30,
In. FC Kaija Koppel 23, (Schottia) < Port Sebastian $700K Out. CF Estelle Conway 20, > Marinos Thimpodopoulos Ladies. Undisc.
It is going to be a tall order to replace Estelle Conway, who has been a stand out player for the club over the last two years, but there is no doubt that the Royals still have a good squad. With players such as Sendoa, and Erin Braden in the centre of midfield and Francis Keelinan up front they will be aiming for a top six finish.
Prediction: 8th. Definitely top ten, but the UICA spots might be just out of reach.
Star player: Erin Braden | Rising star: Yuiko Kasugano
------------------ La Gorlions Stadium: Danu Parc, 16,000 Average attendance: 12,554 Manager: Pascal Voitle Colours: White and yellow shirt, white shorts. Location: La Gorla Nick name: The Lions Club sponsor: Burgunden Breuerie ------------------
------------------ GK. Janne Mtiliga 20,
RB Christy Snell 25, LB Juan Velente 21, CB Markus Pfab 27, CB Vinod Purteer 27,
CM Fredrick Houben 28, CM Yelena Shostakovich 25, AMR Frank Samules 28, AML. Gaston Avelione 34,
SS Jago Avelione 36, (c) CF Davy Ellan 33,
---Youth players of note--- DM Mako Sekine 15,
In.
Yelena Shostakovich 25, <Shakhtar Rheinburg Women. Undisc GK. Janne Mtiliga 18, < Handon United. Loan AM. Gaston Avelione 34, < Blue Coast. $2 Out. LF Billy Small 30, > Lammerton City. Free CM Jade Irwin 22, > Cornellians $5m
After only narrowly holding onto his job, Pascal Voitle will be desperate to ensure that the Lions see a turn around in fortunes. In terms of budgets things have always been a problem for the North Island club, but grit and resolve have normally seen them overcome this. The sale of Jade Irwin will be a blow, but her replacement Yelena Shostakovich could really be one to watch.
Prediction: 10th. Top half, and the side will be desperate to get back to winning ways.
Star player: Marcus Pfab | Rising star: Juan Velente
------------------ Marionville Stadium: Allen Dixon Arena, 25,000 Average attendance: 18,611 Manager: Basil Bunton Colours: Grey and Black shirt and shorts Location: Marionville Nick name: The Old boys ------------------
----------------- GK Pearce Brice 32,
RB Oliver Scott 23, LB Jonas Pedersen 31 CB David Daller 30, (c) DC Artjom Järvinen 30, (Schottia)
CM Jonny Birch 22, CM Barry Stewart 31, AMR Jarred Clotterman 23, LM Alyssa Haight 20, ACM Vojnomir Nikolic 21,
CF Michael Maxwell 26,
---subs--- CM Scott Lewis 30, RLM. Larry Goodman 23,
In.
Some will feel that Marionville have seen their chance to break into the top four come and go. While they certainly have one of the better sides in the league, breaking into the top four has always seemed like an impossibility for the Old Boys.
Prediction: 7th. Probably similar to last year, just outside the top four.
Star Player: Barry Stewart | Rising Star: Vojnomir Nikolic
------------------ Port Patrick Stadium: Galloway Lane, 18,000 Average attendance: 12,673 Manager: Des Pleent Colours: White shirt and shorts, with dark green trim Location: Handon Nick name: The Breakers ------------------
RB, Markus Brent 34, LB, Robert Torry 27, CB Davy Keates 28, (c) CB Jake Dooner 36,
CM Connie Malone 21, CM Kevin Morton 34, RM Willie McIntyre 33, AML, Jack Cameron 20,
CF Jane Swanson 28, CF Paul Coine 34,
---subs--- CM Ross Skinner 31, CM Ruth Finch 20,
In. Out. AML, Cerys Kennicot 25, > Centralis Heart $4m
The Port Patrick side, which won promotion, then surprised us all by going on to finish sixth is now all but gone. With Cerys Kenicott leaving to join Centralis Heart, the team have been left a little thin on the ground. That said, the Breakers have a lot of fight about them, and a top half finish is not out of the question.
Prediction: 11th. This is probably going to be a season of tough adjustments.
Star Player: Davy Keates | Rising star: Connie Malone
------------------ Port James Athletic Stadium: City of Port James Stadium, 32,000 Average attendance: 26,471 Manager: Karla Blackett Colours: Purple shirt and shorts. Location: Port James Nick name: The Seasiders ------------------
------------------ GK Jack Ruver 33,
RB Carl Mujica 26, Audioslavia LB Jim Tanner 32, CB Nathan McDonald 33, CB Tomoaki Neyama 24,
CM Willie Erskin 30, CM Palle Ellsmere 24, AMR Joseph Preca 28, Eusebian Islands (c) AML Ismal Keirut 26,
CF Dahrla Bhosz 33, CF Remaine Clarke 24, ---subs--- CM Alan Pertson 25,
In.
Athletic have been a bit a mixed bag of late, with some very good performances mixed in with some pretty dire ones. The side from Port James have been in relative decline for the last five seasons, and where before they were always fighting to scrape into the top four, it is now the top ten they are looking at.
Prediction: 12th. The side have improved, but they are likely to finish similarly to last season.
Star Player: Joseph Preca | Rising Star: Palle Ellsmere
------------------ New Belfast Blues Stadium: Straks Park, 15,000 Average attendance: 11,000 Manager: Nail Leeten Colours: Blue and white shirt, white shorts Location: New Belfast Nick name: The Blues ------------------
------------------
GK John Fallen 23,
RB Nicolas Slone 32, LB Louise Marshall 26, CB Ross Hardcoart 31, CB Peter Jnist 31,
CM Aleksander Heino-Watanabe 20, CM Gerhart Bitter 29, (c) MR Sam Saxon 24, ML James Trusen 30,
CF David Millar 31, CF Shu 21,
---subs---
CF Chris Strivin 32,
In.
Out. GK Jim Black 25, > Lammerton $1.9m
Protected from relegation by a magic talisman - or so it would seem - NBB constantly bounce around the bottom half of the table without doing much. They have a couple of decent players, particularly in attack, but the loss of keeper Jim Black will be a blow.
Prediction: 17th. This could be another very tough season for the Blues.
Star player: David Millar | Rising star: Aleksander Heino-Watanabe
------------------ Snubbeak Rock Stadium: Scabrock, 9,700 Average attendance: 2,499 Manager: Betty Black Colours: Location: Snubbeak Rock Nick name: The Waders ------------------
------------------
GK. Max Johnstone,
RB Okoi Larra 20, LB Bruce Buggen 30, CB Ross Wilson 27, CB James Romero 23
RM Nick James 19, LM Jackie Luggen 29, CM Scott Seerly 40, (c) CM David Gideon 24,
CF Chris Abaroa 21,
---subs---
In. CF Chris Abaroa 21, < Willox Street Pirates. Loan
We will have to see what Snbbeak Rock are capable of in the top tier. One would imagine, that like so many New Island sides, this will be a bridge too far for the small club. Chris Abaroa, on loan from the Willox Street Pirates should be able to provide some firepower up front, but will it be enough to guide them to safety?
Prediction: 19th. A toss-up for the wooden spoon.
Star Player: David Gideon | Rising Star: Chris Abaroa
------------------ Kirk Preston United Stadium: Auldgate Road, 4,400 Average attendance: 3,165 Manager: Ross Killanen Colours: Location: Kirk Preston, New Belfast Nick name: The Holy Men ------------------
------------------
GK Walter Queen 36, (c)
RB Alan Manning 29, LB Nathan Iane 33, CB Seth Gritt 33, CB David Benn 24,
RM Andre Martineau 32, LM Torsten Grant 23, CM Kris Scott 31, CM Phillip Gespenst 25,
CF Flipp West 27, CF Flasymar 20,
---subs---
In. CB Seth Gritt 33, CM Kris Scott 31, CF Flasymar 20, Matthewsania CF Flipp West 27,
Something of a surprise to see Ross Killanen's side up in the SPL for the first time in 30 years. Kirk Preston did well to win promotion last season, but this is going to be a whole different kettle of fish. Some of their new signings are going to really need to hit the ground running.
Prediction: 20th. Few pundits out there will be predicting anything other than the wooden spoon for this side, who will really need to dig deep.
Star Player: Phillip Gespenst | Rising Star: Flasymar
------------------ Hollin Stadium: Belker Stadium, 10,600 Average attendance: 10,139 Manager: Jack Hosker Colours: Red, white and blue Location: Linellie Nick name: The Belker boys ------------------
------------------ GK Varry Coen 28,
RB Derek Loya 29, LB Robert Morris 30, CB Praxil Glasspool 25, CB Baxter James 34,
CM Neil Brown 22, CM Stephen McAlly 33, AMR Chris Jack 28, (c) AML Alistair Carlyle 30,
CF Fred Dawson 25, CF Alan Doolan 33,
---sub--- CF Beet Timons 30,
In. Out.
A side who are never totally out of the woods, but passion and graft normally sees them to safety. The last two seasons have seen them slip a little down the league, so they will be out to improve their position.
Prediction: 13th. Will finish clear of the bottom four.
Star player: Chris Jack | Rising Star: Neil Brown
------------------ Mucusia Stadium: The Pllier Ground, 11,000 Average attendance: 7,766 Manager: Lilly Kitman Colours: Sky blue, orange, and green Location: Port James Nick name: The Eusebians ------------------
------------------
Mike Hare 33,
RB Stefan Tobiasz 21, LB Thomas Rodgers 25, CB Luke Boldman 27, CB Poppy Fayrkirk 22, (C)
DM CM Gavin Richardson 30, CM Laura Smith 24, CM Natalie "Envy" Adams 18, AMC Ryuni 22,
CF Flora Klee 21, CF Aimée Hétu 19,
In.
Out.
Mucusia had a great first season in the SPL, playing some attractive football with a talented bunch of young players. A solid finish, well clear of the relegation zone, means they are now looking forward to another season in the top tier. The Port James side's sporting ethos and attitude to the game has helped attract much support to their cause.
Prediction: 14th. Mid table, but could be higher.
Star player: Poppy Fayrkirk | Rising star: Natalie "Envy" Adams
-------------------------- Dundee Stadium: Granier Road Park, 11,000 Average attendance: 6,877 Manager: Jock Sonny Colours: Navy blue shirt, white shorts Location: Dundee Nick name: The Panners ----------------------------------
--------------------------------- GK Gerhard Mackan 33,
RB James Berkeley 30, (c) LB Liam Goncalves 18, CB Kevin Scougle 25, CB Keith Paul 31,
CM Vera Cummings 23, CM Gustav Fandrich 29, AMR Barry Drite 26, AML Steven Rexmont 19,
CF Jacques 23, CF David Hughes 21,
---subs--- AML Jake Swain 19, CF Davy Galmore 29,
In. GK Gerhard Mackan 33,
Dundee really managed to ruffle a few feathers last season by finishing 8th, far higher than projected. This season it is going to be a tall order to repeat this feat, with sides now gunning for them. Jock Sonny's side have a lot of pace, and play with a directness which can be hard to match.
Prediction: 6th. Player for player, we don't see anything other than a good season for the South Schottic club.
Star Player: Liam Goncalves | Rising star: Steven Rexmont
------------------ Stalker Bay Stadium: The Bay Ground, 7,000 Average attendance: 3,400 Manager: Davy Martin Colours: Black shirts, red shorts Location: Stalker Bay Nick name: The Last Stand ------------------
------------------
GK Pytor Galasic 37, Schottia
RB Will Priestlaw 25, Schottia LB John Howard 34, Schottia CB Ben Crendoa 19, Schottia CB Ian Todd 34, Schottia
DM Lewis Quinten 27, Schottia CM Lia Galbraith 28, Schottia CM Mark Danan 25, Schottia AM Stephen Rooney 31, Schottia
CF Kevin Stanton 32, Schottia CF Jessica Knox 27, Schottia
In.
Out.
A long awaited return to the SPL for the North Island Club, Stalker Bay know they will need to slog it out if they want to stay up. They are not a team blessed with star talent, so it is going to be down to hard work, and wild tackling.
Star Player: Ian Todd | Rising Star: Ben Crendoa
Prediction: 18th. Only a miracle will stop them going down.
------------------ New Island Stadium: The Rock Ground, 13,000 Average attendance: 6,348 Manager: Judy Scott Colours: Black and gold top, black shorts Location: South Berwick Nick name: The Auks ------------------
------------------
GK. Malcolm Ferguson 37,
RB Vincent Harricot 33, LB Liam Sleas 33, CB Andy Berry 35, CB Ian Brent 28,
RM Xander Cross 32, AML Wendy Gehnt 21, DM Dave Urquart 29, CM Nikita Clohessy 33, (C)
CF Ramone Scotta 25, CF Kevin McCrorry 32,
In. CF Ramone Scotta 25,
New Island have, by avoiding relegation, ensured that there are two New Island sides in the SPL for the first time in many years. After their hard work it is going to be another slog this time round, but they probably have enough about them, with the likes of Nikita Clohessy and Xander Cross, to stay up.
Prediction: 16th. Just outside the relegation zone.
Star player: Nikita Clohessy | Rising star: Wendy Gehnt
------------------ Lammerton City Stadium: Lammerton City Ground, 24,000 Average attendance: 3,378 Manager: Rodger Green Colours: White shirt with blue trim, blue shorts Location: Lammerton Nick name: The Princes, or City ------------------
------------------
GK Arnan Yulcic 28,
RB Thomas Carmichael 28, LB Brock Fuller 31, CB Gordon Centon 28, CB Christopher Bishop 21,
RM Ikas Nike 21, LM Billy Small 30, CM Kyle Ingles 30, CM Somuele der Pros 20,
CF Callum Frir 28, CF Geoff Bentley 26,
---subs---
RB Duncan Scront 25,
In. CF Callum Frir 28, < D'Itille CM Somuele der Pros 20,
Lammerton City will have been relieved to have bounced back so quickly following their relegation, and now the hard work begins. It was always going to be difficult to strengthen the side with their budget, but there are a few handy players in the starting line up.
Prediction: 15th. Should re-establish themselves as a top tier side.
Star player: Thomas Carmichael | Rising star: Ikas Nike
Posted: Thu Jul 14, 2016 7:53 am
by Schottia
Sorry to those of you who have players in my league, I've been away from my computer for the last two weeks, and this is all the detail I am able to go into before the cut-off. If anyone would like a more detailed report on their individual players them please contact me.
Lammerton 2–1 Cornellians Port James Athletic 1–2 Marionville Stalker Bay 0–6 FC Soessch Handon United 2–0 Port Patrick United New Belfast Warriors 1–2 Dundee Lammerton City 0–0 Kirk Preston United Hollin 0–1 Port Sebastian Mucusia 1–0 New Belfast Blues New Island 1–0 Snubbeack Rock La Gorlions 2–2 Kings Park
Cornellians 6–1 Kings Park Snubbeack Rock 0–1 La Gorlions New Belfast Blues 0–1 New Island Port Sebastian 0–1 Mucusia Kirk Preston United 4–2 Hollin Dundee 1–0 Lammerton City Port Patrick United 3–1 New Belfast Warriors FC Soessch 1–1 Handon United Marionville 1–0 Stalker Bay Lammerton 0–1 Port James Athletic
Port James Athletic 1–1 Cornellians Stalker Bay 0–2 Lammerton Handon United 4–3 Marionville New Belfast Warriors 2–0 FC Soessch Lammerton City 1–2 Port Patrick United Hollin 0–1 Dundee Mucusia 0–3 Kirk Preston United New Island 0–1 Port Sebastian La Gorlions 0–1 New Belfast Blues Kings Park 2–0 Snubbeack Rock
Cornellians 5–2 Snubbeack Rock New Belfast Blues 1–0 Kings Park Port Sebastian 1–1 La Gorlions Kirk Preston United 0–2 New Island Dundee 0–1 Mucusia Port Patrick United 2–0 Hollin FC Soessch 0–1 Lammerton City Marionville 1–0 New Belfast Warriors Lammerton 1–0 Handon United Port James Athletic 4–1 Stalker Bay
Stalker Bay 0–5 Cornellians Handon United 2–1 Port James Athletic New Belfast Warriors 0–1 Lammerton Lammerton City 0–0 Marionville Hollin 0–0 FC Soessch Mucusia 1–0 Port Patrick United New Island 0–1 Dundee La Gorlions 1–0 Kirk Preston United Kings Park 1–4 Port Sebastian Snubbeack Rock 1–0 New Belfast Blues
Cornellians 1–0 New Belfast Blues Port Sebastian 3–1 Snubbeack Rock Kirk Preston United 0–1 Kings Park Dundee 1–0 La Gorlions Port Patrick United 2–1 New Island FC Soessch 3–1 Mucusia Marionville 0–1 Hollin Lammerton 0–0 Lammerton City Port James Athletic 0–2 New Belfast Warriors Stalker Bay 0–1 Handon United
Handon United 1–4 Cornellians New Belfast Warriors 4–0 Stalker Bay Lammerton City 0–0 Port James Athletic Hollin 2–1 Lammerton Mucusia 1–1 Marionville New Island 2–3 FC Soessch La Gorlions 0–1 Port Patrick United Kings Park 0–1 Dundee Snubbeack Rock 0–1 Kirk Preston United New Belfast Blues 2–1 Port Sebastian
Cornellians 1–1 Port Sebastian Kirk Preston United 0–1 New Belfast Blues Dundee 1–0 Snubbeack Rock Port Patrick United 0–0 Kings Park FC Soessch 0–0 La Gorlions Marionville 1–0 New Island Lammerton 0–2 Mucusia Port James Athletic 3–1 Hollin Stalker Bay 1–2 Lammerton City Handon United 1–2 New Belfast Warriors
New Belfast Warriors 1–1 Cornellians Lammerton City 1–1 Handon United Hollin 1–0 Stalker Bay Mucusia 0–0 Port James Athletic New Island 1–1 Lammerton La Gorlions 1–4 Marionville Kings Park 1–2 FC Soessch Snubbeack Rock 0–2 Port Patrick United New Belfast Blues 1–2 Dundee Port Sebastian 3–3 Kirk Preston United
Cornellians 2–0 Kirk Preston United Dundee 0–0 Port Sebastian Port Patrick United 2–1 New Belfast Blues FC Soessch 1–0 Snubbeack Rock Marionville 1–1 Kings Park Lammerton 2–4 La Gorlions Port James Athletic 1–0 New Island Stalker Bay 0–1 Mucusia Handon United 5–0 Hollin New Belfast Warriors 1–1 Lammerton City
Lammerton City 0–2 Cornellians Hollin 0–4 New Belfast Warriors Mucusia 1–1 Handon United New Island 1–1 Stalker Bay La Gorlions 2–1 Port James Athletic Kings Park 4–0 Lammerton Snubbeack Rock 0–2 Marionville New Belfast Blues 1–1 FC Soessch Port Sebastian 0–3 Port Patrick United Kirk Preston United 1–2 Dundee
Cornellians 1–1 Dundee Port Patrick United 2–2 Kirk Preston United FC Soessch 2–0 Port Sebastian Marionville 1–2 New Belfast Blues Lammerton 4–4 Snubbeack Rock Port James Athletic 2–0 Kings Park Stalker Bay 0–1 La Gorlions Handon United 0–0 New Island New Belfast Warriors 1–1 Mucusia Lammerton City 2–0 Hollin
Hollin 2–3 Cornellians Mucusia 1–1 Lammerton City New Island 0–1 New Belfast Warriors La Gorlions 2–0 Handon United Kings Park 0–1 Stalker Bay Snubbeack Rock 0–1 Port James Athletic New Belfast Blues 0–3 Lammerton Port Sebastian 0–1 Marionville Kirk Preston United 2–3 FC Soessch Dundee 1–1 Port Patrick United
Cornellians 1–1 Port Patrick United FC Soessch 2–0 Dundee Marionville 1–1 Kirk Preston United Lammerton 1–4 Port Sebastian Port James Athletic 0–0 New Belfast Blues Stalker Bay 1–0 Snubbeack Rock Handon United 3–1 Kings Park New Belfast Warriors 1–1 La Gorlions Lammerton City 2–0 New Island Hollin 1–0 Mucusia
Mucusia 1–3 Cornellians New Island 1–1 Hollin La Gorlions 1–1 Lammerton City Kings Park 0–0 New Belfast Warriors Snubbeack Rock 1–5 Handon United New Belfast Blues 0–1 Stalker Bay Port Sebastian 0–1 Port James Athletic Kirk Preston United 0–1 Lammerton Dundee 1–0 Marionville Port Patrick United 0–0 FC Soessch
Cornellians 0–1 FC Soessch Marionville 0–1 Port Patrick United Lammerton 5–0 Dundee Port James Athletic 3–1 Kirk Preston United Stalker Bay 0–1 Port Sebastian Handon United 4–0 New Belfast Blues New Belfast Warriors 5–0 Snubbeack Rock Lammerton City 0–1 Kings Park Hollin 3–5 La Gorlions Mucusia 1–0 New Island
New Island 0–3 Cornellians La Gorlions 0–1 Mucusia Kings Park 1–4 Hollin Snubbeack Rock 0–0 Lammerton City New Belfast Blues 0–2 New Belfast Warriors Port Sebastian 2–0 Handon United Kirk Preston United 0–0 Stalker Bay Dundee 0–0 Port James Athletic Port Patrick United 0–2 Lammerton FC Soessch 1–0 Marionville
Cornellians 1–0 Marionville Lammerton 1–0 FC Soessch Port James Athletic 0–2 Port Patrick United Stalker Bay 0–1 Dundee Handon United 0–4 Kirk Preston United New Belfast Warriors 0–4 Port Sebastian Lammerton City 2–2 New Belfast Blues Hollin 0–1 Snubbeack Rock Mucusia 1–2 Kings Park New Island 1–0 La Gorlions
La Gorlions 2–1 Cornellians Kings Park 2–1 New Island Snubbeack Rock 3–5 Mucusia New Belfast Blues 0–0 Hollin Port Sebastian 1–0 Lammerton City Kirk Preston United 0–0 New Belfast Warriors Dundee 0–0 Handon United Port Patrick United 3–0 Stalker Bay FC Soessch 2–0 Port James Athletic Marionville 0–1 Lammerton
First half of the season As the SPL reached its half way stage, it looked as if four way split had started to develop at the top. Cornellians, leading the pack with a commanding goal difference would have surprised very few with their strong start to the season, but there wouldn't have been many people predicting Soessch, Port Patrick, and Dundee would have gone with them. Cornellians largely had strikers Kel Koromin and Kathryn Kvanderwyk to thank for the goals, although it was a strong all-round performance in general. Anyone doubting that Jade Irwin could make the step up would sorely mistaken, as the Nepharim midfielder looked on top form alongside Kirisakian, Tsumugi in the centre. When adding players such as Triffid Ramsey, and new signing Kit Kvanderwyk to the equation, it was easy to see why the Eagles were enjoying a strong season in the UICA as well. For FC Soessch it was as if the clock had been turned back, as their players who seemed to have struggled so much over the last three seasons, looked in great shape. Konstantin Holstad, arguably the player of the season at this point, was back on top form, as were Sara Foucault and Johan Shearer. Port Patrick United were a side we all expected to struggle this year, following the sale of Cerys Kennicot, but this could not have been further from the truth. Evergreen striker Paul Coine showed that he should perhaps have still been in the Schottia squad, with a good goal-scoring return in the first nineteen matches to help his side to second. Dundee on the other hand were a side we were expecting to do well - but not this well. Young Steven Rexmont and Liam Goncalves were of course in the thick of it, but also 21-year-old David Hughes, signed two years ago from Handon United, looked on fine form.
Already looking cut adrift if fifth place were Lammerton, as the Hornets failed to live up to their billing. But it was even more worrying for the trio of Handon United, Port Sebastian, and The Warriors all struggling down in the mid-table. For any one of these teams, failure to make the top four would be a disaster, so there would definitely be one of two worried faces in the dressing rooms.
Down at the bottom of the table, Snubbeak Rock seemed to have been cut adrift, but other than that it was too close to call. Kirk Preston had done just enough to keep themselves in 16th place, however, with only goal difference separating them from Hollin, there was still a long way to go. Lammerton City, on the other hand, appeared to be doing just enough to stay clear of the drop zone, with a haul of 22 points from their first nineteen games.
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cornellians 19 11 5 3 42 17 +25 38 2 FC Soessch 19 11 5 3 28 12 +16 38 3 Port Patrick United 19 11 5 3 27 13 +14 38 4 Dundee 19 11 5 3 16 13 +3 38 5 Lammerton 19 10 3 6 28 23 +5 33 6 Mucusia 19 9 5 5 21 19 +2 32 7 Port Sebastian 19 9 4 6 27 18 +9 31 8 New Belfast Warriors 19 8 6 5 28 16 +12 30 9 Handon United 19 8 5 6 31 24 +7 29 10 Port James Athletic 19 8 5 6 20 16 +4 29 11 La Gorlions 19 8 5 6 24 21 +3 29 12 Marionville 19 7 4 8 19 17 +2 25 13 Lammerton City 19 4 10 5 14 14 0 22 14 Kings Park 19 6 4 9 20 29 −9 22 15 New Belfast Blues 19 5 4 10 12 23 −11 19 16 Kirk Preston United 19 4 6 9 22 24 −2 18 17 Hollin 19 5 3 11 18 34 −16 18 18 New Island 19 4 4 11 12 21 −9 16 19 Stalker Bay 19 3 2 14 6 34 −28 11 20 Snubbeack Rock 19 2 2 15 13 40 −27 8
Cornellians 0–3 Lammerton Marionville 0–0 Port James Athletic FC Soessch 1–0 Stalker Bay Port Patrick United 1–1 Handon United Dundee 0–0 New Belfast Warriors Kirk Preston United 0–4 Lammerton City Port Sebastian 1–0 Hollin New Belfast Blues 0–0 Mucusia Snubbeack Rock 1–3 New Island Kings Park 3–1 La Gorlions
Kings Park 0–1 Cornellians La Gorlions 0–2 Snubbeack Rock New Island 0–1 New Belfast Blues Mucusia 0–0 Port Sebastian Hollin 5–2 Kirk Preston United Lammerton City 0–5 Dundee New Belfast Warriors 0–1 Port Patrick United Handon United 0–1 FC Soessch Stalker Bay 0–3 Marionville Port James Athletic 2–2 Lammerton
Cornellians 2–1 Port James Athletic Lammerton 4–0 Stalker Bay Marionville 1–1 Handon United FC Soessch 1–1 New Belfast Warriors Port Patrick United 0–0 Lammerton City Dundee 0–0 Hollin Kirk Preston United 2–1 Mucusia Port Sebastian 1–0 New Island New Belfast Blues 0–4 La Gorlions Snubbeack Rock 0–1 Kings Park
Snubbeack Rock 1–4 Cornellians Kings Park 1–1 New Belfast Blues La Gorlions 1–2 Port Sebastian New Island 2–2 Kirk Preston United Mucusia 1–1 Dundee Hollin 1–1 Port Patrick United Lammerton City 0–3 FC Soessch New Belfast Warriors 2–0 Marionville Handon United 6–1 Lammerton Stalker Bay 1–2 Port James Athletic
Cornellians 1–0 Stalker Bay Port James Athletic 1–4 Handon United Lammerton 1–0 New Belfast Warriors Marionville 1–1 Lammerton City FC Soessch 2–1 Hollin Port Patrick United 1–0 Mucusia Dundee 1–0 New Island Kirk Preston United 1–7 La Gorlions Port Sebastian 4–1 Kings Park New Belfast Blues 0–2 Snubbeack Rock
New Belfast Blues 0–2 Cornellians Snubbeack Rock 1–0 Port Sebastian Kings Park 2–1 Kirk Preston United La Gorlions 0–0 Dundee New Island 2–4 Port Patrick United Mucusia 0–1 FC Soessch Hollin 2–0 Marionville Lammerton City 1–2 Lammerton New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Port James Athletic Handon United 4–0 Stalker Bay
Cornellians 2–2 Handon United Stalker Bay 0–1 New Belfast Warriors Port James Athletic 0–0 Lammerton City Lammerton 1–0 Hollin Marionville 1–1 Mucusia FC Soessch 1–1 New Island Port Patrick United 1–1 La Gorlions Dundee 4–1 Kings Park Kirk Preston United 0–1 Snubbeack Rock Port Sebastian 1–1 New Belfast Blues
Port Sebastian 1–3 Cornellians New Belfast Blues 0–1 Kirk Preston United Snubbeack Rock 0–2 Dundee Kings Park 1–2 Port Patrick United La Gorlions 2–1 FC Soessch New Island 0–1 Marionville Mucusia 1–0 Lammerton Hollin 0–0 Port James Athletic Lammerton City 3–2 Stalker Bay New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Handon United
Cornellians 4–0 New Belfast Warriors Handon United 5–2 Lammerton City Stalker Bay 1–0 Hollin Port James Athletic 1–1 Mucusia Lammerton 2–0 New Island Marionville 1–1 La Gorlions FC Soessch 3–3 Kings Park Port Patrick United 0–0 Snubbeack Rock Dundee 3–2 New Belfast Blues Kirk Preston United 1–4 Port Sebastian
Kirk Preston United 1–2 Cornellians Port Sebastian 4–0 Dundee New Belfast Blues 0–2 Port Patrick United Snubbeack Rock 1–1 FC Soessch Kings Park 2–0 Marionville La Gorlions 1–1 Lammerton New Island 4–3 Port James Athletic Mucusia 0–1 Stalker Bay Hollin 1–3 Handon United Lammerton City 0–0 New Belfast Warriors
Cornellians 2–0 Lammerton City New Belfast Warriors 2–0 Hollin Handon United 2–0 Mucusia Stalker Bay 0–1 New Island Port James Athletic 1–0 La Gorlions Lammerton 2–1 Kings Park Marionville 3–0 Snubbeack Rock FC Soessch 3–0 New Belfast Blues Port Patrick United 0–3 Port Sebastian Dundee 1–0 Kirk Preston United
Dundee 1–0 Cornellians Kirk Preston United 1–2 Port Patrick United Port Sebastian 2–2 FC Soessch New Belfast Blues 0–1 Marionville Snubbeack Rock 1–1 Lammerton Kings Park 0–2 Port James Athletic La Gorlions 1–1 Stalker Bay New Island 0–1 Handon United Mucusia 2–3 New Belfast Warriors Hollin 0–1 Lammerton City
Cornellians 3–0 Hollin Lammerton City 0–1 Mucusia New Belfast Warriors 2–0 New Island Handon United 0–0 La Gorlions Stalker Bay 0–7 Kings Park Port James Athletic 0–0 Snubbeack Rock Lammerton 1–0 New Belfast Blues Marionville 3–1 Port Sebastian FC Soessch 3–1 Kirk Preston United Port Patrick United 0–0 Dundee
Port Patrick United 1–5 Cornellians Dundee 1–1 FC Soessch Kirk Preston United 0–1 Marionville Port Sebastian 3–2 Lammerton New Belfast Blues 3–0 Port James Athletic Snubbeack Rock 1–1 Stalker Bay Kings Park 1–1 Handon United La Gorlions 0–3 New Belfast Warriors New Island 2–1 Lammerton City Mucusia 1–1 Hollin
Cornellians 4–0 Mucusia Hollin 2–3 New Island Lammerton City 1–4 La Gorlions New Belfast Warriors 0–2 Kings Park Handon United 4–1 Snubbeack Rock Stalker Bay 0–0 New Belfast Blues Port James Athletic 0–1 Port Sebastian Lammerton 1–0 Kirk Preston United Marionville 0–2 Dundee FC Soessch 2–0 Port Patrick United
FC Soessch 0–0 Cornellians Port Patrick United 1–4 Marionville Dundee 0–1 Lammerton Kirk Preston United 1–0 Port James Athletic Port Sebastian 2–0 Stalker Bay New Belfast Blues 0–1 Handon United Snubbeack Rock 0–2 New Belfast Warriors Kings Park 0–0 Lammerton City La Gorlions 0–0 Hollin New Island 2–1 Mucusia
Cornellians 0–1 New Island Mucusia 5–1 La Gorlions Hollin 3–2 Kings Park Lammerton City 1–1 Snubbeack Rock New Belfast Warriors 0–0 New Belfast Blues Handon United 1–1 Port Sebastian Stalker Bay 1–2 Kirk Preston United Port James Athletic 1–3 Dundee Lammerton 2–1 Port Patrick United Marionville 1–1 FC Soessch
Marionville 4–3 Cornellians FC Soessch 0–1 Lammerton Port Patrick United 2–3 Port James Athletic Dundee 3–0 Stalker Bay Kirk Preston United 0–4 Handon United Port Sebastian 0–1 New Belfast Warriors New Belfast Blues 1–5 Lammerton City Snubbeack Rock 1–2 Hollin Kings Park 2–0 Mucusia La Gorlions 1–0 New Island
Cornellians 2–3 La Gorlions New Island 0–0 Kings Park Mucusia 1–1 Snubbeack Rock Hollin 1–1 New Belfast Blues Lammerton City 2–0 Port Sebastian New Belfast Warriors 2–0 Kirk Preston United Handon United 0–0 Dundee Stalker Bay 1–2 Port Patrick United Port James Athletic 2–4 FC Soessch Lammerton 3–0 Marionville
How things finished Considering that they finished with a goal difference of +46, Cornellians might have hopped for a much stronger end to the season. However you cannot argue with your third championship in three years, and in holding of a late surge from Lammerton, the Eagles thoroughly deserve it. Cenian striker Kel Koromin, along side the Kvanderwyk siblings were a devastating combination in attack, and when added to the impact made by the likes of Jade Irwin, Eula Richard, and teen midfielder Tsumugi, it was simply too much for the opposition. Over the course of the season they were head and shoulders above the rest in terms of on-field performances, even if a couple of bad results meant that they only finished a point clear of Lammerton and Dundee.
Considering they looked out of it at the half way point, Lammerton proved to us all that they are now a force to be reckoned with. Once again the goals of Brenecian Merry Osbourne, and Schottic striker John Cooper got them over the line, with help from young midfield trio of Jasper Valaren, Mars Alexandersson, and Robard Horvat. After another disappointing year in the UICA however, the Hornets will go into next season with a big point to prove. This season's big talking point was the performance of Dundee, who have come out of nowhere to look like real title challengers. Whatever Jock Sonny has done, it is working, as the young side kept the momentum going for their highest finish in 57 years. Many of their young stars we mentioned at the half way point, but it also worth giving credit to captain James Berkeley, as the 30-year-old Darvale rightback really added some steel to the side. We also need to remember, had Dundee beaten Handon United in the final game of the season, then they would have actually been crowned champions. The fourth UICA spot was claimed by FC Soessch, who return to international domestic football for the first time in four seasons. The side from the North Island put in a strong performance from the start of the season, and a good team showing meant they thoroughly deserve this result.
In the middle of the table, Handon United, and Port Sebastian may all be looking for new managers, after slumping to 6th and 7th place respectively? While Warriors boss Collins is unlikely to be under the same pressure, his side also slipped backwards. All three sides will now have the problem of trying to hold on to their best players without the prospect of international club football.
At the other end of the table there were few surprises with Stalker Bay, Snubbeak Rock, NBB, and Kirk Preston all going down. While NBB have been in the SPL for a long time, they have been hanging on for dear life for many years, and finally take the plunge. And although Kirk Preston went down, they will be reasonably pleased with a haul of 31 points, far more than many would have expected.
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Cornellians 38 23 7 8 82 36 +46 76 Champions' Cup 2 Lammerton 38 23 6 9 59 40 +19 75 Globe Cup 3 Dundee 38 21 12 5 43 24 +19 75 Globe Cup 4 FC Soessch 38 20 13 5 59 29 +30 73 Globe Cup 5 New Belfast Warriors 38 19 10 9 49 27 +22 67 6 Handon United 38 18 12 8 71 38 +33 66 7 Port Sebastian 38 19 8 11 58 37 +21 65 8 Port Patrick United 38 18 11 9 49 40 +9 65 9 Marionville 38 15 10 13 44 38 +6 55 10 La Gorlions 38 14 12 12 52 46 +6 54 Cygnus Cup 11 Kings Park 38 13 9 16 50 54 −4 48 12 Mucusia 38 12 12 14 37 43 −6 48 13 Port James Athletic 38 12 11 15 39 45 −6 47 14 Lammerton City 38 9 16 13 36 43 −7 43 15 New Island 38 11 7 20 33 46 −13 40 16 Hollin 38 9 9 20 37 59 −22 36 17 Kirk Preston United 38 8 7 23 38 67 −29 31 Relegated 18 New Belfast Blues 38 7 10 21 22 51 −29 31 Relegated 19 Snubbeack Rock 38 6 9 23 28 66 −38 27 Relegated 20 Stalker Bay 38 5 5 28 15 72 −57 20 Relegated
Awards
Player of The Year 1st: Kel Koromin, Cornellians 2nd: Steven Rexmont, Dundee 3rd: Konstantin Holstad, FC Soessch 4th: Jade Irwin, Cornellians 5th: Merry Osbourne, Lammerton
Golden Boot: 31: Kel Koromin, Cornellians 26: Merry Osbourne, Lammerton 24: Serge Mavididi, Handon United 21: Steven Rexmont, Dundee 21: Sara Foucault, FC Soessch
Young Player of The Year: 1st: Steven Rexmont, Dundee 2nd: Jasper Valaren, Lammerton 3rd: Kathryn Kvanderwyk, Cornellians 4th: Tsumugi Narita, Cornellians 5th: Christian Lovenkrands, Handon United
Manger of The Year: 1st: Jock Sonny, Dundee 2nd: Alexander Pearce, Cornellians 3rd: Gary Stoot, FC Soessch 4th: John Sedder, Lammerton 5th: Graeme Collins, Warriors
Team of The Season:
Harry Gould Ryan Stoner -- Triffid Ramsey -- Scott Burton --Bueno-Wells Jade Irwin -- Steven Rexmont -- Jasper Valaren Kel Koromin -- Merry Osbourne -- Serge Mavididi
Schottic Cup -- Ro32 Marionville 2–4 FC Döllar Lammerton Eels 0–1 Dundee Regional Development Side D 0–2 New Belfast Warriors New Belfast Blues 0–1 Kirk Preston United Handon United 2–1 Kings Park Stalker Bay 1–1 Port Patrick United (2-1 AET) Granton Vale 1–1 Port James Athletic (3-2 AET) Port Sebastian 1–0 New Island La Gorlions 1–0 Hillstreet Marionville Thistle 3–4 Regional Development Side B D'Itille 0–1 Lammerton City Cornellians 0–0 FC Soessch (1-0 AET) Regional Development Side A 2–1 Hollin Lammerton 1–2 Mucusia Jenna VB 1–0 Snubbeack Rock Regional Development Side C 1–0 Handon North
Schottic Cup -- Ro16 Regional Development Side C 0–4 Cornellians Stalker Bay 1–2 FC Döllar Granton Vale 1–3 Mucusia Jenna VB 0–1 Dundee Regional Development Side B 0–0 New Belfast Warriors (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.) Lammerton City 0–0 Kirk Preston United (0–0 AET) (4–3 pen.) La Gorlions 0–0 Regional Development Side A (1–0 AET) Handon United 0–2 Port Sebastian
Schottic Cup -- QF Cornellians 2–0 FC Döllar Mucusia 2–1 Dundee Regional Development Side B 0–1 Lammerton City La Gorlions 2–1 Port Sebastian
Schottic Cup -- SF Cornellians 1-2 Mucusia Lammerton City 1-2 La Gorlions
Schottic Cup -- Final Lammerton City 2-4 La Gorlions
There was a somewhat surprise look about the Schottic Cup final, with two of the league's less glamorous sides slogging it out. Despite the low standing of both teams we were still treated to a fascinating match at the national stadium. Mucusia took the lead early on through Envy Adams, only to see the Sunrise Islander's strike cancelled out by goals from Jago Avelione and Gaston Avelione just before half time. Mucusia pulled level on the hour mark through Gavin Richardson, but late goals from Yelena Shostakovich and Mako Sekine sealed a rare cup win for the Lions.
Regional Divisions - Second Tier In a bid to make football more sustainable in Schottia the second tier is split into four Regional Divisions. This was in an attempt to cut down travel time for fans and players, while giving a greater number of sides a chance at promotion. The champions of each league win promotion to the SPL, and the side finishing bottom is relegated to the Regional Conference. Other sides may be relegated too depending on which sides come down from the SPL, keeping the number of teams in each league at ten.
Division A -Greater Handon, Marionville, New Belfast, and New Scotland.
. Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 1 Berwick United 36 20 7 9 42 25 +17 67 Promoted 2 Bolton Green 36 17 9 10 35 35 0 60 3 Coldstream Farmers Union 36 15 14 7 40 25 +15 59 4 Regional Development Side D 36 16 8 12 39 26 +13 56 5 Port Newtown 36 16 8 12 40 33 +7 56 6 Marasmont 36 16 5 15 30 35 −5 53 7 Garvald 36 14 6 16 43 37 +6 48 8 Davison Main 36 12 10 14 39 40 −1 46 9 New Town Thistle 36 11 10 15 36 37 −1 43 10 Arnahm 36 4 1 31 15 66 −51 13 Relegated
Series B Champions' Cup Play-offs
Semi-finals- Granton Vale 4–0 Oak Park Celtic Berwick United 1–3 D'Itille
Third place play-off- Oak Park Celtic 3–2 Berwick United
Final- Granton Vale 1–0 D'Itille Granton Vale, Berwick United, and D'Itille Qualify for the Series B Champions' Cup
Posted: Tue Jul 26, 2016 2:45 am
by Schottia
2023-24
Preview -Part One-
Playing squads for the upcoming season, with provisional starting eleven, and notable reserves. Teams listed in no particular order.
------------------ Cornellians FC (formerly Cornellia) Stadium: Lochend Stadium, 80,000 Average attendance: 55,651 Manager: Alexander Pearce Assistant: Casey Brind Colours: White and green shirts, white shorts. Location: Lochend (Greater Handon) Nick name: The Eagles ------------------
------------------
GK. Jeremy McNott 28,
RB. Rachel Mercurier 23, LB. Triffid Ramsey 28, CB. Scott Burton 28, (c) CB Stephan Gargo 25,
RM. Kit Kvanderwyk 25, LM. Eula Richard 27, CM. Tsumugi Narita 20, CM. Jade Irwin 23,
CF. Kathryn Kvanderwyk 22, CF Kel Koromin 25,
---subs---
GK. David Prince 25, LB. John Yardlee 27,
RM. Mark Freute 23, DM. Lucius Hirtius Carus 27, AMC. Cosmin Dobrescu 31, AMC. Mabel Finnemark 21,
ST. Lara Wedderburn 16,
---Youth Players of note---
CB. Christian Berg 16, CM. Sumireko Karuizawa 13,
In. CB. Christian Berg 16, < Fetherdorn United. Free Out. CB. Gary Hamilton 29, > New Island. Free. CF. Eloisa Purinton 27, > Port Sebastian. $5m
Last season saw the Eagles claim a third consecutive SPL title, but it will also go down as the year Alexander Pearce's side finally cracked the UICA. A run to the last sixteen of the Globe Cup, along with quarterfinal appearance in the Cup Winners' Cup, has seen as a turning point for the club who have had to learn to adjust to life after the MPL. For some of the big name stars of this side, it will have come not a moment too soon; but for many of the players of far humbler stock, this achievement was the product of a lot of hard work. Cenian super-star Kel Koromin comes into this season on the back of fantastic campaign which saw him crowned player of the year, picking up the golden boot in the process. The club's record signing seems to have struck up a promising partnership with hardworking Cosumarite youngster Kathryn Kvanderwyk, and together they will hope they can combine to good effect, once again, in the attack. In the midfield, Cornellians remain unchanged from last season, with a four of Jade Irwin, Tsumugi Narita, Eula Richard, and Kathryn's elder brother Kit. 23-year-old Irwin has turned the disappointment of being released by Crisisbless United into a positive. After resurrecting her fledgling career at La Gorlions, she has added a physical side to her game, and this is a lot of the reason why the Nepharim lass was so effective in the big matches last season. Accompanying her in the centre is the industrious Kirisakian, Tsumugi. The 20-year-old, who has already been at the club for six years, was recently handed her first full international cap. Hard working, and another excellent passer, she and Irwin ensure there is little waste in the centre of the park. Mesillan midfielder Richard is now back in her preferred position on the left, where she can use her pace to get in behind the enemy lines. Eula Richard is a player who has really grown with the club in the eight years she has been with them, becoming a fans favourite in her adopted nation, after her homeland disappeared off the sporting radar. Completing the quartet is $10 million former DBC winner Kit Kvanderwyk, a man whom the manager can rely on as a source of both goals and assists. His arrival last season forced a change in formation, to more of a conventional 4-4-2, with the Cosumarite helping bring more of a balance to the team. The back-four is also unchanged from last season, Stephen Gargo, and new captain Scott Burton in the centre, and explosive wingbacks Rachel Mercurier, and Triffid Ramsey marshalling the flanks. Mercurier, a refugee of the Apoxian Academy of Excellence, was brought in by Pearce after thing went sour back home, and subsequently completed her development at Lochend. The tricky right-back has since proven a valuable asset, replacing Adiran veteran Santiago Lowe. On the opposite flank is Nepharim born defender Ramsey (yes she is the daughter of the Cosumar manager), who adds some balance to the side with her surging runs up the park. Signed for a smidge over half a million from Augustineopel Saints, the 27-year-old has now developed into a top class player, as we saw in the Globe Cup last season. The central pairing is tried and tested, with Schottic international Burton solid as ever, alongside Gargo, who is really coming of age.
Prediction: 1st. Undoubtedly they will go into the season as favourites, and they will be chasing a record breaking four in a row. There will be stiff competition out there, but few will bet against them.
Star player: Kel Koromin | Rising Star: Tsumugi Narita
International Competition: Champions' Cup
------------------ Handon Utd Stadium: Harbour Hill, 55,000 Average attendance: 51,373 Manager: Carl Sorensen Assistant: Karl Renardsen Colours: White and maroon with maroon shorts. Location: Handon Nick name: United ---------------------
Looking at the players they have at their disposal it is hard to see why Handon United have struggled so much over the last three seasons to mount a serious title challenge. Semarlandic manager Carl Sorensen came under a fair bit of pressure towards the end of the last campaign, with fans protesting outside the stadium. The board stood behind their man however, and after what must have been a lot of deliberation, the former Jansberg boss has received a stay of execution. In attack, Sorensen lines up with two of his countrymen Serge Mavididi, and Isaac Nketiah who have both been capped for their country. The pair of them have played together for a long time, and have a potent synergy in the forward line. In the midfield it has been another young Semar, however, who has captured the headlines with his performances over the last couple of seasons. Christian Lovenkarnds, who can play either right or centre, has pace to burn and has had left-backs running scared up and down the country. On the opposite wing Schottian DCB cap Aya Berman is of a similar mould, if not a little less effective. Together these young wide players are a real asset to the club. In the centre, stalwart creative-midfielder Alfred Seggerson is a massive player for United. With over fifty caps for Schottia, the Kloith born player has been at the club his entire career, and is a big fans' favourite. Who plays along side him is still up for debate, with the manager no doubt aware that he needs to shake things up. Devon Carranza-Jones is the obvious choice, but with things falling flat last season, will he be tempted to go with someone like young Baffour Asante or Surnrisian prospect Mirka Shitakuari? Defensively United should have little trouble, with Cenian keeper Jacrian Ryaden a safe pair of hand behind the likes of Tameka Ninetyseventh and Nathaniel Bueno-Wells. While they have no shortage of good replacements, part of United's problem is likely to be the fact that they have seen veteran stars such as Colin Donaldson, Robert Pzech, and Lucas D'Arby all head for the exit door. The task for these players will now be to step up to the plate.
Prediction: 4th. So hard to predict. This season will tell us a lot about what sort of a side they are, and reveal Sorensen's fate.
Star Player: Alfred Seggerson | Rising Star: Christian Lovenkrands
------------------
Port Sebastian Stadium: Dyerton, 30,000 Average attendance: 29,875 Manager: Jock Sonny Colours: Light blue, with dark blue shorts Location: Handon Nick name: Porty, or the Steel men
-------------------------
-----------------------
GK Chris Gonzaö 31,
RB Esther Abner 24, LB Paul Doig 26, CB Joon Ho Hwang 22, CB Sloane Kirkland 24,
CM Vera Cummings 24, CM Emeline Millet 26, AMR Jonathan Bia 24, (Dahamy) AML Steven Rexmont 20,
CF. Eloisa Purinton 27, (c) ST Demba Traore 24,
---subs--- DM Louis Porter 29, CM Milo Mavor 26,
FC Giancoma de Jerusalem 31,
---Youth players of note---
LM Andrya Novkovic 17, Anglatia
In. CM Vera Cummings 24, < Dundee . $3m AML Steven Rexmont 20, < Dundee. $6m CF. Eloisa Purinton 27, < Cornellians. $5m CB Joon Ho Hwang 22, > $4m
Out. ML/C Chiyoko Sakuraka 23, > Port Patrick United. $2.5m CB Max Peterson 31, > Dundee. $600k >
Port Sebastian are really going for it this year. They have a new man in charge, and finally the "selling club" have loosened the purse strings in a long overdue reinvestment in the playing squad. After the team parted company with Conner Watts, they moved quickly to bring in veteran boss Jock Sonny, whose achievements need no introduction. His latest triumph has been in guiding lowly Dundee to second in the league, winning him a move back to the big time after his reign at the Warriors went sour. Porty have backed him with transfer money and allowed him to bring in his own players, such as Steven Rexmont, and Vera Cummings from Dundee. He has also been reunited with former player Eloisa Purinton, whom he first brought to Cornellians seven years ago; and young Quebecois talent Joon Ho Hwang completes the new line-up. The Gloriaxian skipper, Purinton, will now look to recapture some of her form while leading the forward line following something of a slump. After talk of transfers, and the Gloriaxian national side reforming fell through two seasons back, the player has definitely been off the boil, so she will be eager to change that. There is no shortage of firepower alongside her, with the potent Semar striker Demba Traore, and experienced the Giancoma de Jerusalem both available. In the midfield we are liable to see a couple of changes from last season, with Cummings and Rexmont unlikely to be here just to make up numbers. We've seen Chiyoko Sakuraka move on, with Rexmont her likely direct replacement. It is also expected that Darvale man Louis Porter will drop to the bench with Cummings slotting in as a partner to Ko-oren international Emiline Millet. On the right, predictably will be Schottia winger Joey Bia, who will be back for an eighth consecutive season for the club. New recruit Hwang, will slot into a pretty settled back four, alongside Paul Doig, Sloane Kirkland, and poster-girl Esther Abner. If Jock Sonny's side hit the ground running there could be trouble for the rest of the field. It will also be an interesting battle, if we get a head-to-head race between Port Sebastian, and Cornellians - the side Sonny led to second in the MPL.
Prediction: 2nd. They've spent money, and done so wisely. Should present a real threat to Cornellians.
Star Player: Joey Bia | Rising Star: Steven Rexmont
------------------ Lammerton Stadium: Lammerton City Ground, 24,000 Average attendance: 23,688 Manager: John Sedder Colours: Yellow and Black shirt, black shorts Location: Lammerton Nick name: The Hornets ------------------
------------------ GK Jim Black 26,
RB Paul Yarrow 27, LB Luke Svensson 21, CB Marcel Smith-Hammond 28, CB Owen Betler 29,
CM Timo Düd 30, CM Jasper Valaren 20, CM Robard Horvat 22, OM Mars Alexandersson 21,
CF Merry Osbourne 32, CF John Cooper 31, (c)
---subs--- CM Lorna Wilson 21,
CF Wallace Solway 20,
In. Out.
After consecutive runners-up places the Hornets are back, unchanged, and desperate to go one better. John Sedder's side don't exactly have money to burn, but what they do have, they have spent well, bringing in a good balance of individuals, all with a point to prove. The best news for Lammerton is that their star players are all still improving. Midfield trio of Horvat, Alexandersson, and Valaren are 22, 21, and 20 respectively and already key players for their side. When you through in the experience of Timo Düd in defensive midfield, and John Cooper and Merry Osbourne in attack, then you can see why the side are so effective. Breniacain, Osbourne, turned back the clock last season with an excellent attacking display, and the fans will be hopping for more of the same alongside club captain and Schottia cap Cooper. The beating heart of this side, however, are Mars Alexandersson and Jasper Valaren. Both clever passers of the ball and lethal in attack, on a good day they are arguably number one and two in terms of playmakers in the SPL. Sitting just behind them, it is normally left to Robard Horvat, and Timo Düd to handle the less glamorous side of things, but that is something they both do very will. Lammerton's strongest department was never their defence, but after the acquisitions of Marcel Smith-Hammond and keeper Jim Black, they have now really tightened up. Black, signed from New Belfast Blues two years ago, has represented Schottia at the Olympics, and has been tipped to succeed Lucus D'Araby in the senior side. It's hard to see how things could get much better for Lammerton, given their transformation over the last five or six years. They are currently enjoying their best run of form since the 1970s and you would imagine it is now or never if they are going to upset the odds and bring home the title.
Prediction: 3rd. We are predicting third, it what will hopefully be a fascinating four/five horse race for the title.
Star player: Mars Alexandersson | Rising Star: Jasper Valaren
International Competition: Globe Cup
------------------ New Belfast Warriors Stadium: Ashley Road, 22,000 Average attendance: 17,312 Manager: Graeme Collins Colours: Green and orange shirt, white shorts Location: New Belfast Nick name: The Whalers ---------------------
CM Holly Addison 27, (c) CM Tomás Fierro 23, AML Adrienne O'Callahan 25, AMR Craig O'Maramy 28,
ST Jenny Lundergrand 23 ST Miki Kurugaya 21,
---subs--- CF Ian Willson 22,
In. Nerio Teran 22, SJG < FC Kolberg. $3m Out.
It's been a much talked about unknown, exactly how would New Belfast Warriors cope with the loss of their captain and record scorer Ivan Archic when the time finally came - and new we are about to find out. All eyes will now be on Kirisakian Miki Kurugaya, who is expected to step up to the plate as the Nekylturnyn's long term replacement. The Whalers finished fifth last season, and will be looking for at least the same again to get them back into UICA football. This isn't the same Warriors side, which won the title in 2018, but they have a good manager in the form of Graeme Collins, and the undoubtedly still pack a punch. Star man for the Greater Handon side is young Cenian international Tomás Fierro, a player who has shown us real glimpses of quality over the last three seasons at the club. The 23-year-old plays alongside Arcadia born Schottia midfielder Holly Addison and the pair have been reliable in the centre of the park. When you add wingers Craig O'Maramy, and Quebecois Project +90 graduate Adrienne O'Callahan to the equation then you have a side who are an outside bet for the title. The Warriors could possible be a little stronger at the back, but with the recent additions of Schottic U21 star Saskia Holden, and Guayabalense keeper Nerio Teran, they might just have enough in reserve to keep the top teams out. The Warriors have been through a few ups and downs, but successive third and fifth place finishes under their new boss show that they are getting their act back together. It seems that they may have finally found the key to consistency, and that is to not keep selling their best midfielders.
Prediction: 6th. It's getting harder and harder to call, as there seems to be something of a crunch, with up to eight side's all capable of making the fifth UICA spot.
Star Player: Tomás Fierro | Rising Star: Miki Kurugaya
------------------ FC Soesch Stadium: Gannon Park, 38,000 Average attendance: 25,229 Manager: Gary Stoot Colours: Scarlet and Black stripes Location: Soessch Nick name: Die rote Teufel
-------------------
------------------- GK Harry Gould 24,
RB Ryan Stoner 34, LB Naomi Blair 21, CB Robert Wessel 32 CB Ben Ross 27,
CM Till Ümann 26, AMR Johan Shearer 25, AML Christopher Dickson 28, AMC Konstantin Holstad 31, (c)
CF. Sara Foucault 23, CF Viktor Lang 21,
---subs--- RB Mark Walker 31, LB/M Jan Ümann 24, CF Bruno Schwartz 33,
In. CB Ben Ross 27, < Stvozhaboythuow. $4m CF Viktor Lang 21, < Project +90. free Out. CF Broad Dalehun 25, > La Gorlions. $245k
Soessch must feel like they have turned a corner, although we have been here before in recent years. The side from Bergstadt started off the UICA era of Schottic football strongly; with a third place finish six years ago. However, prematurely sacking their manager after one bad season seemed to open the floodgates for them, condemning Die Rote Teufel to years in the wilderness. Hard work, and self-belief have been key to their climb back up the table, and last season's fourth will have given the fans a massive sense of relief. This was of course only half the battle and where the team go from hear is the crucial part - but to his credit, the manager has looked to build on that success. The accusation of Schottia internationalist and former DBC captain Ben Ross is a marquee signing for Soessch and the 27-year-old will be desperately needed to prop up an aging defence. Similarly young Naomi Blair at left back will hopefully add an injection of pace to the side. Apparently Cornellians' Eula Richard was pivotal in bringing the 21-year-old Mesillan to Gannon Park. Finally, Quebecois striker Viktor Lang completes the trio of signings, joining up from Project +90. When added to the existing bunch, Soessch look in pretty good shape as they seek to add to last year's success. Former Mucusia striker Sara Foucault had a good season last time round, and will be hopping to add to the haul of 21 goals she chipped in. A crucial element for Soessch will be how well Polar Islander Konstantin Holstad plays in the centre of the park. We saw last season just how effective he can be when he is at his best, and the side will desperately need more of the same. Another important player is likely to be Johan Shearer, as the Nepharim winger's contribution proved vital in terms of assists. Slipping backwards is going to be tough to take for Soessch, should it happen, but it may prove that there is little they can do with the field so evenly matched.
Prediction: 5th. FC Soessch will be the ones to pick up the final Glob Cup spot.
Star Player: Johan Shearer | Rising Star: Viktor Lang International Competition: Globe Cup
------------------ King's Park Stadium: Lochely Green, 14,000 Average attendance: 12,140 Manager: Eric Desmond Colours: Navy Blue shirt, white shorts. Location: Handon Nick name: The Royals ------------------
------------------
GK Gerry Ion 25,
RB Thomas Carmichael 29, LB Mario Modrich 18, CB Peter Gaunt 31, CB Richard Dachs 25,
CM Erin Braden 25, CM Sendoa 21, RM Yuiko Kasugano 19, AML Darren O'Brian 30,
CF Francis Keelinan 29, (c) FC Kaija Koppel 24, (Schottia)
---subs---
CM Jake Halls 31,
In. RB Thomas Carmichael 29, < Kings Park. $1m
Out.
Kings Park will be desperate to recover from an awful season, which saw them finish in an eight year low of 11th place. Kings Park have always been a side who have experienced ups and downs, but this result would have been seen as a major setback. The Royals have brought in Shalumite rightback Thomas Carmichael from SPL rivals Lammerton City, who should help to strengthen the ailing defence. Other than that, it is a young and otherwise unchanged side which will hope to give them their return to Globe Cup football for the first time in six years. Kings Park have never had many problems going forward, and with an attack consisting of Kaija Koppel and Francis Keelinan, they are always sure of a few goals. Set-piece specialist Keelinan is a former U23s captain, and ex Porty girl Koppel has represented Schottia in the DBC, and Vormsi at full international level. In support they have other forward options, with Darren O'Brian, Sendoa, and Yuiko Kasugano all capable of getting forward and doing damage. Anchoring the midfield is Schottia cap Erin Bradin, who, since joining from the Belker Picts, has been one of the league's standout players. For a long time the Handon side have been a bit of a right-off at the back, but their will be hopes that Carmichael, along with rising Schottic defender Richard Dachs can start to make inroads in that area. It's pretty hard to say what would be a good season for Kings Park. None of their fans will be expecting a title challenge, but at least somewhere near the Globe Cup spots would be nice. One thing is for certain though; another bottom half finish would put the manager under pressure.
Prediction: 10th. Worst case scenario 12th, best case 5th.
Star player: Erin Braden | Rising star: Yuiko Kasugano
------------------ La Gorlions Stadium: Danu Parc, 16,000 Average attendance: 12,554 Manager: Jago Avelione Colours: White and yellow shirt, white shorts. Location: La Gorla Nick name: The Lions Club sponsor: Burgunden Breuerie ------------------
------------------ GK. Mark den Karl 21,
RB Christy Snell 26, LB Juan Velente 22, CB Markus Pfab 28, CB Vinod Purteer 28,
CM Fredrick Houben 29, (c) CM Yelena Shostakovich 26, AMR Frank Samules 29, AML Gaston Avelione 35, AMC Aredhel Neil 27,
CF Broad Dalehun 25,
---Youth players of note--- DM Mako Sekine 15,
In. GK. Mark den Karl 21, < Sorensen Park Rangers $1m+ plr ex AMC Aredhel Neil 27, < Blue Coast 1981. Free CF Broad Dalehun 25, < FC Soessch. $245k
It's been a pretty bumpy ride for the little team from the North Mountains, with the lows sadly outnumbering the highs. Things got off to a good start under previous manager Pascal Voitle, the only problem was it just didn't last. Veteran player Jago Avelione has since been promoted to manager, with his brother Gaston coming in as player/assistant. With next to no funds whatsoever the brother have set about giving their side a fighting chance as they look to re-establish themselves as a top half side. Christopherian international Aredhel Neil, no doubt after some persuasion from former teammate Gaston, joins on a free from Blue Coast, and will slot into the attacking mid role. Their other new addition is Broad Dalehun, who joins from SPL rivals FC Soessch. The striker as spent a long time as understudy, so this season will be a big test for him. In the midfield La Gorlions are actually looking pretty sharp these days, with Yelena Shostakovich and Fredrick Houben holding things in the middle, and Neil, Avelione, and Frank Samules all trying to get forward in support. In defence, Marcus Pfab was capped during Schottia's most recent, ill-fated World Cup campaign, while the other three have all been capped at U21 level.
Prediction: 11th. It's going to be a hard season, but their is no reason why they can't do well if they gel as a team early.
Star player: Yelena Shostakovich | Rising star: Mako Sekine
------------------ Marionville Stadium: Allen Dixon Arena, 25,000 Average attendance: 18,611 Manager: Basil Bunton Colours: Grey and Black shirt and shorts Location: Marionville Nick name: The Old boys ------------------
----------------- GK Pearce Brice 33,
RB Oliver Scott 24, LB Jonas Pedersen 32 CB David Daller 31, (c) DC Artjom Järvinen 31, (Schottia)
CM Jonny Birch 23, CM Barry Stewart 32, AMR Jarred Clotterman 24, LM Alyssa Haight 21, ACM Vojnomir Nikolic 22,
CF Michael Maxwell 27,
---subs--- CM Scott Lewis 31, RLM. Larry Goodman 24,
In.
It was a relatively tricky season for The Old Boys last time round, unable to keep pace with the teams around them, they ended up a disappointing ninth. It can seem like they have perpetually been chasing down a top four spot, but to no avail, or so their league results would suggest. Marionville have a strong starting eleven however, and even though no one will have them marked out as championship contenders, we certainly aren't worried about them going down either. The man who makes them tick these days is Pasargan attacker Vojnomir Nikolic. The 22-year-old is regarded as one of the best number tens in the league, and has been an important source of goals for the club. Just in front of Nikolic is Michael Maxwell, a solid yet un outstanding striker who has been at the club for longer than even he can remember. In the centre of midfield a combination of youth and experience has served Marionville well over the last couple of seasons. Schottia cap Barry Stewart, and 23-year-old Johnny Birch take no prisoners, and really pack a punch in defence. Marionville are also blessed with a lot of pace on the wings, with Jarred Clotterman and Alyssa Haight both of a similar mould - tall, quick, and confident with the ball at their feet. In defence, Davis Daller has been capped for Schottia, and Artjom Järvinen regularly plays for Vormsi in friendlies. Marionville are going find it tough this season, but they are one of the sides in the mix, as far as gaining a good, top-half finish goes.
Prediction: 8th. Probably a very similar finish to last year, with the side going in pretty much unchanged.
Star Player: Vojnomir Nikolic | Rising Star: Alyssa Haight
------------------ Port Patrick United Stadium: Galloway Lane, 18,000 Average attendance: 12,673 Manager: Des Pleent Colours: White shirt and shorts, with dark green trim Location: Handon Nick name: The Breakers ------------------
------------------ GK Altavian Kalhoro, 23
RB, Markus Brent 35, LB, Robert Torry 28, CB Davy Keates 29, (c) CB Jake Dooner 37,
In. ML/C Chiyoko Sakuraka 23, < Port Sebastian. $2.5m CM/ACM. Tanya Yeats 25, < North Hall. Free Out.
Port Patrick has surprised a few people since gaining promotion to the top flight four seasons ago. A sixth place finish in their first season up, follow by three consecutive top half results has seen them establish themselves as one of the SPL's better sides. Furthermore, they have rode out the loss of many of their best players, with Heron Crew, Cerys Kennicot, and Esther Abner all heading for the exit door. On the plus side, The Breakers have had money to spend because of this, and the $2.5m invested in Chiyoko Sakuraka will definitely given them an edge. On top of this, manager Des Pleent has managed to bring Tanya Yeats back in on a free - a Brenecian who impressed on loan three years ago. Up front the club will have to adjust to the retirement of Paul Coine, who was a good source of goals right up till the end of his career. His replacement is William Snedden, a player promoted from the reserves, who has represented Schottia at under eighteen level. The 19-year-old will be partnering former Olympics women's player Jane Swanson. In the midfield, alongside Yeates, is young Nepharim player Connie Malone, who has slotted in well in her two seasons at the club. On the right is former Cornellians man Willie McIntyre, and on the left new recruit Sakuraka. In defence, the importance of Davy Keates cannot be understated. The Schottia cap has been absolutely outstanding for the club since winning promotion, and is the last of the group of star players who helped send them up.
Prediction: 9th. The way they played last year, it is probably going to be another good season for the Breakers. The fans would dearly love a fifth place finish and a crack at the Globe Cup.
Star Player: Davy Keates | Rising star: William Snedden
Posted: Thu Jul 28, 2016 10:45 am
by Schottia
-Part Two-
-------------------------- Dundee Stadium: Granier Road Park, 11,000 Average attendance: 7,016 Manager: Johnny Smith Assistant: Aaron Good Colours: Navy blue shirt, white shorts Location: Dundee Nick name: The Panners ----------------------------------
--------------------------------- GK Gerhard Mackan 34,
RB James Berkeley 31, (c) LB Liam Goncalves 19, CB Kevin Scougle 26, CB Max Peterson 31,
CM Jim Gerrish 21, CM Gustav Fandrich 30, AMR Barry Drite 27, AML Mark Keane 19,
CF Jacques 24, CF David Hughes 22,
---subs--- AML Jake Swain 20, CF Davy Galmore 30,
In. AML Mark Keane 19, < Regional Development Side A. $1m
CB Max Peterson 31, < Port Sebastian. $600k
Out. AML Steven Rexmont 20, > Port Sebastian. $6m CM Vera Cummings 24, > Port Sebastian. $3m
Dundee were last seasons surprise package... although, well, they weren't really that much of a surprise. We knew they were a good side, with a top manager, and their chances of replication the previous year's sixth place were high. What we didn't know was that the Panners, under manager Jock Sonny, would mount a title challenge right up until the last game of the season. In a sense Dundee have been victoms of their own success, and after their best finish in forty-two years, their manger and many of their players have caught the eye. Jock Sonny has left, taking up manager's job at Port Sebastian, and with him went two of last season's stars Vera Cummings and Steven Rexmont. With that mind, some of the club's biggest success stories pre season, will have been in staving off a mass-exodus. There was probably a temptation to bring in a high profile manager, with the likes of Jane Gullie, Barry Gorman, and Grant Nean all out of work and the team in the Globe Cup, but instead the board's appointment had more of a homegrown flavour. Johnny Smith, keeper at the club for nine years, and a first team coach under Jock Sonny took the reins with former teammate Aaron Good coming in as assistant. It will be hoped that the promotion from within will help with a smooth transition, and a continuation of the good work Sonny has started. So who's left? The thriving strike partnership of David Hughes and Jacques remains intact, despite interest in the former from FC Soessch; Smith will be hopping that those two can more or less pick up where the left off. Barry Drite, who has been with the club since their lowly days in the second tier is still at right midfield, while new signing Mark Keane joins from the Regional Development side for a fee of $1m, with the unenviable task of replacing Stevie Rexmont. Experienced Nepharim midfielder Gustav Fandrich is back for another season, and this year expect to see much more of 21-year-old Jim Gerrish, who moves out from under Cummings' shadow. The central midfielder was originally at Cornellians as a teenager and was one of Sonny's first signings at the club. Defensively, Dundee are incredibly strong, with Darvale's James Berkeley at rightback, Christopherian wonderkid Liam Goncalves on the left, and man mountain Kevin Scougle in the centre. This year they are joined by former SPL winner Max Paterson, who it believed was something of a part ex, moving in from Port Sebastian. Behind them is former Northbrook City man Gerhard Mackan who had an incredible season last year, pulling off some wonderful saves.
Prediction: 6th. Definitely top half. Probably not going to do as well as last season, but 6th, 7th, 8th will still be seen as a good result.
Star Player: Liam Goncalves | Rising star: Jim Gerrish
International Competition: Globe Cup
------------------ Port James Athletic Stadium: City of Port James Stadium, 32,000 Average attendance: 26,471 Manager: Karla Blackett Colours: Purple shirt and shorts. Location: Port James Nick name: The Seasiders ------------------
------------------ GK Jack Ruver 34,
RB Carl Mujica 27, Audioslavia LB Jim Tanner 33, CB Pat Purnell 25, CB Tomoaki Neyama 25,
CM Willie Erskin 31, CM Palle Ellsmere 25, AMR Joseph Preca 29, Eusebian Islands (c) AML Ismal Keirut 27,
CF Elspeth Glendening 20, CF Remaine Clarke 25, ---subs--- CM Alan Pertson 26,
In.
The days of challenging for the top four seem to be long gone now for Athletic. Players like Keelinan, Kelman, they are like mythical figures as the club has slid into decline. Now, every season seems to be one almighty effort just to claw themselves into the top ten - sometimes they fail, sometimes they succeed. Port James come into this season with a familiar shape, the versatile Semarlandic forward Remaine Clarke keeps his place upfront, with academy product Elspeth Glendening slotting in alongside him. Glendening is lacking in first team experience so we will need to wait and see what she can come up with in attack. In the midfield is probably where they are strongest. Left-sided Ismal Keirut has MPL and DBC experience and has performed steadily over the last six seasons. Both Palle Ellsmere, and Willie Erskin are very solid in the centre of the park, and are also tried and tested at this level. Completing the quartet is club captain Joseph Preca, the Eusebian islander with a mean cross, and a direct style of play, which can be hard to defend. At the back Tomoaki Neyama is fairly solid, and keeper Jack Ruver has dug them out of a few tight spots over the years. Port James don't have a bad set of players, but they will really need to work hard in order to realise their potential.
Prediction: 12th. Their arc of improvement has not been the same as the other sides around them.
Star Player: Joseph Preca | Rising Star: Elspeth Glendening.
------------------ Hollin Stadium: Belker Stadium, 10,600 Average attendance: 10,139 Manager: Jack Hosker Colours: Red, white and blue Location: Linellie Nick name: The Belker boys ------------------
------------------ GK Varry Coen 29,
RB Derek Loya 30, LB Robert Morris 31, CB Praxil Glasspool 26, CB Grant Richardson 31,
CM Neil Brown 23, CM Stephen McAlly 34, AMR Chris Jack 29, (c) AML Alistair Carlyle 31,
CF Fred Dawson 26, CF Nick Man 20,
---sub--- CF Beet Timons 31,
In. Out.
It somehow feels like it's slipping away from Hollin a little bit. For years they were the over achieving little team, but that crown is now starting to slip. It's been a while now since they have made much of a foray up the league table, and last season they didn't miss out on relegation by an awful lot. Hollin will have Oak Park back in the SPL however, which at least guarantees another sell out match; and the slight league restructuring, meaning only three teams go down, will all but quell their relegation worries. Nick Man is promoted from the reserves to partner former DBC winner Fred Dawson in the attack, but other than that the team is relatively the same. Team captain Chris Jack, who has been capped for his country, is the main man for Hollin in the midfield, playing alongside Alistair Carlyle, Steve McAlly, and Neil Brown. In defence they have an experienced and settled back four, with Cosumarite Praxil Glasspool an important player for them.
Prediction: 14th. Not going to be easy, but they'll stay clear of the drop zone.
Star player: Chris Jack | Rising Star: Nick Man
------------------ Mucusia Stadium: The Pllier Ground, 11,000 Average attendance: 7,816 Manager: Lilly Kittman Colours: Sky blue, orange, and green Location: Port James Nick name: The Eusebians ------------------
------------------
Mike Hare 34,
RB Stefan Tobiasz 22, LB Thomas Rodgers 26, CB Luke Boldman28, CB Poppy Fayrkirk 23, (C)
DM Gihaje Wehly 23, Gylias CM Laura Smith 25, CM Natalie "Envy" Adams 19, AMC Ryuni 23,
CF Flora Klee 22, CF Aimée Hétu 20,
In. DM Gihaje Wehly 23, Gylias
Out.
You've got to give this side some credit. They have finally reached the SPL playing attractive football, on a tight budget, and it's easy to see why the club are growing in popularity. The small fans run co-operative are attracting bigger and bigger gates each year, as they to grow as a club. While they have yet to make a serious charge up the league, they have consolidated their position comfortably in their first two seasons, as they begin to build a strong base. Mucusia have a talented young strike force in the form of Flora Klee and Pasargan youngster Aimée Hétu. The pair managed 33 goals between them last season, a decent haul for a side in the bottom half. Just behind them is Ryuni, a Daineri attacker who seems to have been better known for her looks than her footballing ability in her home country. This has now changed, following a string of good performances for the Port James side. Along side her are; the very solid Laura Smith, Unified Sunrise U21 star Natalie "Envy" Adams, and young Gylian talent Gihaje Wehly. At the heart of the defence is their captain Poppy Fayrkirk, whose ability to play the ball out of defence is an important aspect of how the team play.
Prediction: 13th. They will be happy with mid-table for now, given that they are playing the long game
Star player: Poppy Fayrkirk | Rising star: Natalie "Envy" Adams
------------------ Granton Vale Stadium: Sea Park, 13,000 Average attendance: 8,469 Manager: Dan Brown Colours: Grey shirt, grey shorts. Location: Granton Nick name: The Beachcombers ------------------
------------------
GK. Krista Till 24,
RB Mavis Johnson 22, LB Dave Cranshaws 31, CB Tygo Pasha 20, Eastfield Lodge CB Norman Norkin 25,
RM Will Rybka 30, L/CM Scott Cooper 31, CM Kurt Hierholzer 22, CM Gerhard Bitter 29, ACM Arron Marcie 34, (c)
CF Jack Hobbs 23,
---subs---
LM Anna White 23,
In. CM Gerhard Bitter 29, < New Belfast Blues. $250k
CM Kurt Hierholzer 22, < Jena VB. $600k
There would have been few in Granton expecting their side to go down two years ago, but after a poor season, such was the hand they were dealt. The side managed to keep their squad together despite dropping down a division, and now will hope to take continue on from where they left off. The Beachcombers will start out with Jack Hobbs up front; the Schottic U21 star has been the mainstay of their attack since they first returned to the SPL and he is growing with confidence each year. In the midfield Granton Vale have brought in some fresh faces, with a couple of aging players making way. In comes Kurt Hierholzer, a journey man at only 22. At one time the former Döllar and Jena man was a contemporary of the Ünterhausens, so he will be desperate to prove he has not fallen off the radar completely. Also coming in is Gerhard Bitter, who after a short spell at NBB, has avoided relegation with this sideways move. They join old fans' favourite Arron Marcie, back in a second spell at the club; Scott Cooper, who is in a similar situation; and veteran winger Will Rybka. In a relatively youthful defence Dave Cranshaws is the only real experienced head, playing alongside Tygo Pasha, Mavis Johnson, and Norman Norkin. 95Xer Krista Till starts in goals for the side.
Prediction: 15th. Probably should not have too bad a season, but they will need to pick up points against the teams around them.
Star Player: Arron Marcie | Rising Star: Jack Hobbs
------------------ D'Itille Stadium: Belvour parc, 7,000 Average attendance: 4,269 Manager: Liam Seawel Colours: Green and white shirt, white shorts Location: Annacey Nick name: Annacien ------------------
------------------ GK James Peterson 25,
RB Ellian Larraux 32, LB Luke Corsby 26, CB Duncan Harris 33, CB Marius Pujuneb 30,
CM Jane Schramm 17, CM Abbus Atamei 30, (c) MR Dardan Baris 24, ML Ewan Swain 31,
CF Jessica Knox 28, CF Lucas Yashvil 28,
---subs--- CM Bruce Kewt 33,
In. CF Jessica Knox 28, < Stalker Bay. $500k CM Jane Schramm 17, < Sherbrooke. Loan
A speedy return to the top flight will have come as a welcome relief for D'Itille, as they managed to pick up the very competitive Regional Division C title. Life may be far tougher than they remembered however, with the SPL probably the most competitive it has ever been. The loss of former SPL champion Callum Frir is a big blow to the side, who have brought in Jessica Knox from Stalker Bay as a replacement. She will accompany long-time fans' favourite Lucas Yashvil in the attack. In the midfield they may be struggling a little, with players like Dardan Baris not really fulfilling their early potential. Schottic U15 WC winner Jane Schramm comes in on loan from Quebecois club Sherbrooke, and they will be hoping that her all-action style will help get them over the line. If they are going to stay up, there will be a lot asked of defenders such as Marius Pujuneb, who are going to need to withstand a lot of pressure.
Prediction: 18th. It might well be back from whence they came for the North Island side.
Star Player: Lucas Yashvil | Rising Star: Jane Schramm
------------------ Berwick United Stadium: Gauld Park, 15,000 Average attendance: 5,466 Manager: Alan Cross Colours: Dark Blue and white Location: South Berwick Nick name: The Seaguls ------------------
------------------
GK Joe Mullens 35,
RB Tom Martin 30, LB John Kettle 28, CB Glen Gordon 26, CB Millie Feltman 29,
CM Jonny McDonald 32, CM Scott Vincent 27, AMR Jack Glover 29, AML Justyna Eriksson 23,
CF John Boyde 30, CF Brian Graham 28,
In.
Constantly up and down between the first and second tier, Berwick United should be getting dizzy by now. They find themselves in the position of being one of the stronger sides in Regional Division D, but not really good enough to make a go of life in the SPL. Anyway, they are back for another stab at it, even though the outcome already seems a little obvious. It's hard to say exactly where the problem lies for the Seaguls, it's more the case that they are slightly lacking in every department. John Boyde and Brain Graham are both decent strikers at tier two level, but pretty basic. And it is a similar story with the midfield, Jonny McDonald (brother of Schottic international Jenny) probably their most effective players. One player to note however, is 23-year-old Justyna Eriksson, a national academy graduate, who performed very well last season.
Star Player: Johnny McDonald | Rising star: Justyna Eriksson
Prediction: 19th. Frustrating, but you can't really see how they have any chance of staying up: a long hard season ahead.
------------------ New Island Stadium: The Rock Ground, 13,000 Average attendance: 6,348 Manager: Judy Scott Colours: Black and gold top, black shorts Location: South Berwick Nick name: The Pebbles ------------------
------------------
GK. Rachel Brennan 35,
RB Vincent Harricot 34, LB Liam Sleas 34, CB. Gary Hamilton 29, CB Ian Brent 29,
RM Xander Cross 33, LM Mikkel Jorgberg 33, DM Dave Urquart 30, CM Nikita Clohessy 34, (C)
CF Ramone Scotta 26, CF Kevin McCrorry 33,
---subs--- AML Wendy Gehnt 22,
In. CB. Gary Hamilton 29, < Cornellians. Free. LM Mikkel Jorgberg 33, < Willox Street Pirates. $1m
New Island are widely considered the best team in Region D, and three seasons in the top league would suggest that might be true. They are not particularly glamorous, and their brand of football isn't the easiest on the eye, but what they do have is a lot of experience. Nikita Clohessy is a rough and tumble style midfielder who doesn't take any prisoners, and new signing Mikkel Jorgberg should provide a good balance with right winger Xander Cross. Up front Kevin McCorry has a decent scoring record, and should hold his own, even if he is getting on a bit in age. Into their very settled defence come Cornellians' squad player Gary Hamilton, and former Nephara U21 star Rachel Brennan.
Prediction: 16th. Whatever happens it's probably not going to be pretty, but New Island are far from the worst team in the league.
Star player: Nikita Clohessy | Rising star: Wendy Gehnt
------------------ Lammerton City Stadium: Lammerton City Ground, 24,000 Average attendance: 3,378 Manager: Rodger Green Colours: White shirt with blue trim, blue shorts Location: Lammerton Nick name: The Princes, or City ------------------
------------------
GK Arnan Yulcic 29,
RB Duncan Scront 25, LB Brock Fuller 32, CB Gordon Centon 29, CB Christopher Bishop 22,
RM Ikas Nike 22, LM Billy Small 31, CM Kyle Ingles 31, CM Somuele der Pros 21,
CF Callum Frir 29, CF Geoff Bentley 27,
---subs---
In. Out. RB Thomas Carmichael 29, >Kings Park. $1m
Lammerton City have always had to deal with being the city's little side, but since the Hornets' resurgence over the last three or four seasons, it has become almost impossible to stop their young fans heading to their arch rivals. Manger Rodger Green has been at the club for fourteen years now, and he has helped keep a lot of flack off them, but their is no doubt that this season will be a struggle. They have also lost the services of Shalumite international Thomas Carmichael, meaning they go in with their defence sorely depleted. That said, the Princes have a few handy players. Callum Frir is a good striker, capped at U21 level. And Farf midfielder Somuele der Pros showed some very promising signs last season. In defence they also have rising star Christopher Bishop, who has played for Schottia at various youth levels. All in all, they should have almost enough to stay up, but they'll be fighting hard until the end.
Prediction: 17th. They hopefully have a spot - one above the drop zone - with their name on it.
Star player: Callum Frir | Rising star: Somuele der Pros
------------------ Oakpark Celtic Stadium: Kelnis Road Stadium, 7,000 Average attendance: 4,301 Manager: Darren Clancey Colours: White gold and green shirt, white shorts Location: Glemin Nick name: The Ossies ------------------
------------------
GK Seamus O'Shea 33, Schottia
RB Billy O'Riar 29, Schottia LB Jack Persil 35, Schottia CB Han Clancy 35, Schottia CB Nicky Ginnly 39, Schottia
CM Cormack Coull 33, Schottia CM Clemant Scooner 34, Schottia MR Jonny Fox 29, Schottia ML Swithen Smanter 31, Schottia
CF Danko Ninis 32, Schottia CF Rhurie Long 27, Schottia
Oakpark Celtic are the other professional side from the Belker region of Schottia, and with Hollin, they make up one of the fiercest derbies in the country. They are not a particularly talented, or ambitious side, but then again, with their budget how could they be. Up until now they have benefited from playing in one of the weaker regional divisions, meaning that they have these little adventures up to the SPL once in a while, just to go straight back down again. Now that Regional Divisions B and D are going to be merged however, things just got a whole lot harder. In terms of who could come along and save them this season: Rhurie Long has been by far their most consistent player over the last few years, and the experience of Cormack Coull in the centre will be important. That said, these guys will need a miracle to keep them up, and no one will be predicting anything other than a battle from the opening game if they are going to make it.
Star Player: Cormack Coull | Rising Star: Rhurie Long
Prediction: 20th. Even the most optimistic fans will find it hard to believe anything else is possible.