Page 1 of 12

All-Banija Sports Magazine

PostPosted: Sun Mar 27, 2016 11:34 am
by Banija
Image

National Teams Trophy Cabinet

Championships
Soccer
World Cup 86
World Cup 93
AOCAF LXIV
AOCAF LXVII
Cocoa-bo Challenge Trophy @ Eagle's Cup VIII
Eagle's Cup VIII
Cup of Champions at Eagle's Cup IX
Sporting World Cup 8 (U18)
Di Bradini Cup 47 (U21)
Mihaly Invitational
Afro-Carribean Heritage Festival

Baseball
World Baseball Classic 47
World Baseball Classic 51
World Baseball Classic 56
AO Baseball Series II
Londinium Challenge Invitational I
Londinium Challenge Invitational IV
Gold Medal at XV Olympiad (Men)

Basketball
IBC 30
IBC 31
IBC 32
IBC 33
AOBC VI
AOBC VIII
AOBC IX

Gridiron
World Bowl XLIV
World Bowl XLV
AO Bowl IV

Lacrosse
WLC 41
Moravica Lacrosse Invitiational/AOLC I
AOLC IV
1st Champions Challenge Cup

Other
AOlympic Team Festival (12 golds, 4 silvers, 5 bronzes)

Second Place Finishes
Soccer
World Cup 92
AOCAF LVIII
AOCAF LXVIII
Eagle's Cup IX
Friendship Cup

Gridiron
World Bowl XL
AO Bowl VI

Basketball
IBC 29
XIV Summer Olympiad(Men's)

Baseball
WBC 54
AO Baseball Series I

Lacrosse
WLC 21
WLC 34
WLC 38
WLC 39
WLC 40
AOLC II
AOLC V

Other
4th Water Polo International Championships
5th Water Polo International Championships
8th Quidditch World Cup
47th World Cup of Hockey

Third Place Finishes
Soccer
World Cup 83
World Cup 85
World Cup 90
AOCAF LXII
DBC 42 (U21)
1st Baker Park Open Cup
Afro-Carribean Heritage Festival II

Gridiron
World Bowl 36
XVI Summer Olympiad (Men's; Demonstration)

Basketball
Bronze Medal at XVI Summer Olympiad (Men's)
IBC 27

Lacrosse
WLC 22
WLC 25
WLC 31
WLC 36
WLC 37

Baseball
World Baseball Classic 46
XI Summer Olympiad (Men's; Demonstration)

Other
Handball World Cup 20

International Individual Team titles

Championships
Soccer
6th IFCF Champions League- Kitara AA
6th IFCF Super Cup- Kitara AA
Tropicorp Super Cup(aligned with Season 6 of the IFCF)- Kitara AA
4th IFCF Liga B Champions Trophy- Kabakono City
6th IFCF Liga B Champions Trophy- Hawabark Boulders
AOCL XXXV- Istria City FC
AOCL XLI- Herzegovina City FC

Gridiron
NSCF 14- University of Loyola-Istria
NSCF 17- University of Loyola-Istria
NSCF 19- Northern Moravica University
NSCF 21- University of Loyola-Istria
Champions Bowl 5- Istria Black Mambas
Champions Bowl 6- Herzegovina City Cobras

Lacrosse
IDLO Champions Cup 1- Bunyoro RSC
IDLO Challenger's Cup 1- Bunyoro RSC
IDLO Champions Cup 3- Bunyoro RSC

Second Place Finishes
Soccer
7th IFCF Challenger's Cup- Herzegovina City FC
AOCL XXXII- Herzegovina City FC
AOCL XLIII- Herzegovina City FC

Lacrosse
IDLO Ultimate Cup 2- Busukuma Flyers
IDLO Champions Cup 1- Herzegovina City Kings
IDLO Champions Cup 2- Bunyoro RSC
IDLO Champions Cup 4- Bunyoro RSC
IDLO Champions Cup 6- Bunyoro RSC

Basketball
NSCAA 10- University of Moravica
NSCAA 11- University of Moravica

Gridiron
NSCF 18- University of Loyola-Istria
NSCF 20- Northern Moravica University
NSCF 23- Northern Moravica University
NSCF 25- Northern Moravica University

Soccer
List of BSL champions (Formerly Tier 1)
Season 1- Jinja City FC
Season 2- Hoima Warriors
Season 3- Herzegovina City FC
Season 4- Herzegovina City FC(Second League Title)
Season 5- Istria City FC
Season 6- Herzegovina City FC(undefeated; Third League Title))
Season 7- Busukuma AC
Season 8- Herzegovina CIty FC(Fourth League Title)
Season 9- Herzegovina City FC(Fifth League Title)
Season 10- Jinja City FC(Second League Title)
Season 11- Herzegovina City FC(Sixth League Title)
Season 12- Istria City FC(Second League Title)
Season 13- Hoima Warriors(Second League Title)

List of Banijan Soccer League Champions (Presently Tier 2. Champions are promoted to the S-FPL)
Season 1- Herzegovina Phoenix
Season 2- Duntho Sporting Club
Season 3- Hawabark Boulders
Season 4- Busukuma Force
Season 5- Hawabark Boulders(Second League title)
Season 6- Lakiska SC
Season 7- Aissa United.
Season 8- Busukuma Force(Second League title)
Season 9- Hawabark Boulders(Third League title)
Season 10- Capitol City FC.

List of Promotions/Relegations in the National Era (Only promotion in this era was between first tier BSL and second tier Regional Leagues)
Season 7- Regional League Promotion to the BSL: Hawabark Boulders. BSL Relegation to the Regional Leagues: Bwubanza City SC
Season 8- Regional League Promotion to the BSL: Corizova United. BSL Relegation to the Regional Leagues: Dukuma SC
Season 9- Regional League Promotion to the BSL: Igulu City FC. BSL Relegation to the Regional Leagues: Corizova United
Season 10- Regional League Promotion to the BSL: Capitol City FC. BSL Relegation to the Regional Leagues: Lwanga Lions
Season 11- Regional League Promotion to the BSL: Bunyoro RSC. BSL Relegation to the Regional Leagues: Suwawa FC.
Season 12- Regional League Promotion to the BSL: Dukuma SC. BSL Relegation to the Regional Leagues: Igulu City FC.
No pro/rel after Season 13, the final season of the national era, because of the restructuring of the pyramid with the addition of the S-FPL that followed Season 13.

List of Promotions/Relegations in the S-FPL Era- First & Second Tier
Season 1- BSL Promotion to S-FPL: Herzegovina Phoenix. S-FPL relegation to BSL: Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Season 2- BSL Promotion to S-FPL: Duntho Sporting Club. S-FPL relegation to BSL: Lakiska SC
Season 3- BSL Promotion to S-FPL: Hawabark Boulders. S-FPL relegation to BSL: Duntho Sporting Club.
Season 4- BSL Promotion to S-FPL: Busukuma Force. S-FPL relegation to BSL: Hawabark Boulders.
Season 5- BSL Promotion to S-FPL: Hawabark Boulders. S-FPL relegation to BSL: Herzegovina Phoenix.
Season 6- BSL Promotion to S-FPL: Lakiska SC. S-FPL relegation to BSL: Hawabark Boulders.
Season 7- BSL Promotion to S-FPL: Aissa United. S-FPL relegation to BSL: Busukuma Force..
Season 8- BSL Promotion to S-FPL: Busukuma Force. S-FPL relegation to BSL: Lakiska SC.
Season 9- BSL Promotion to S-FPL: Hawabark Boulders. S-FPL relegation to BSL: Busembe Timberwolves.
Season 10- BSL Promotion to S-FPL: Capitol City FC. S-FPL relegation to BSL: Hawabark Boulders.

List of Promotions/Relegations in the S-FPL Era- Second & Third Tier
Season 1- Regional League Promotion to BSL: Baleweye FC. BSL relegation to Regional Leagues: Thayaferu United.
Season 2- Regional League Promotion to BSL: Bunyoro RSC & the Boufaya Ravens. BSL relegation to Regional Leagues: Jaribga SC & Capitol City FC.
Season 3- Regional League Promotion to BSL: The Lwanga Lions & Igulu City FC. BSL relegation to Regional Leagues: Baleweye FC & the Boufaya Ravens.
Season 4- Regional League Promotion to BSL: Cerenus United. BSL relegation to Regional Leagues: The Lwanga Lions.
Season 5- Regional League Promotion to BSL: The Lwanga Lions & Jaribga SC. BSL relegation to Regional Leagues: Bwubanza City SC & Cerenus United.
Season 6- Regional League Promotion to BSL: Capitol City FC. BSL relegation to Regional Leagues: Suwawa FC.
Season 7- No promotion/relegation between BSL & Regional Leagues this season for financial reasons.
Season 8- Regional League Promotion to BSL: Ogbordu Diamond FC. BSL relegation to Regional Leagues: Jaribga SC
Season 9- Regional League Promotion to BSL: Luguyala Patriots, Amaku City SC, Barmos United, Jaribga SC, Nezrouch Rovers. BSL relegation to Regional Leagues: Zakuta City (expansion of BSL led to 5 teams getting promoted in this season).
Season 10- Regional League to S-FPL: Bwubanza City SC, Mamari City, Tezirbu Foxes. Regional League relegation to BSL: Luguyala Patriots, Corizova United, Nezrouch Rovers.

List of Kabaka's Cup Champions (Supercup)
Season 2- Jinja City FC
Season 3- Hoima Warriors
Season 4- Herzegovina Phoenix
Season 5- Herzegovina City FC
Season 6- Istria City FC
Season 7- Herzegovina City FC(Second Title)
Season 8- Busukuma AC
Season 9- Jaribga Soccer Club
Season 10- Herzegovina City FC(Third Title)
Season 11- Rukunbi FC
Season 12- Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Season 13- Istria City FC(Second Title)

List of RBSA Cup Champions (Domestic Cup)
Season 1- Hoima Warriors
Season 2- Askatasuna FC
Season 3- Herzegovina Phoenix
Season 4- Jinja City FC
Season 5- Herzegovina City FC
Season 6- Busembe Timberwolves
Season 7- Istria City FC
Season 8- Jaribga Soccer Club
Season 9- Dukuma SC
Season 10- Rukunbi FC
Season 11- Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Season 12- Busembe Timberwolves(Second Title)
Season 13- Busukuma AC

List of RBSA Challenge Cup Winners (Domestic Cup)
S-FPL Season 10- Hoima Warriors

Ebrahim Razav Cup Champions (Busoga Islands domestic cup)
Season 12- Dukuma SC
Season 13- Nezrouch Rovers
S-FPL Season 10- Dukuma SC

Regional Leagues (Formerly Tier 2, presently tier 3)
Northwestern League Season 0/BSL Season 4- Corizova United
Lower Coastal League Season 0/BSL Season 4- Kabakono City
Southern League Season 0/BSL Season 4- Hawabark Boulders
Northern League Season 0/BSL Season 4- Cerenus United

Northwestern League Season 1/BSL Season 5- Corizova United
Lower Coastal League Season 1/BSL Season 5- Capitol City FC
Southern League Season 1/BSL Season 5- Hawabark Boulders
Northern League Season 1/BSL Season 5- Cerenus United

Northwestern League Season 2/BSL Season 6- Corizova United
Lower Coastal League Season 2/BSL Season 6- Kabakono City
Southern League Season 2/BSL Season 6- Sororo City
Northern League Season 2/BSL Season 6- Igulu City FC

Northwestern League Season 3/BSL Season 7- Suwawa FC
Lower Coastal League Season 3/BSL Season 7- Kabakono City
Southern League Season 3/BSL Season 7- Hawabark Boulders
Northern League Season 3/BSL Season 7- Duntho Sporting Club
Promotion Playoff Winner- Hawabark Boulders

Northwestern League Season 4/BSL Season 8- Corizova United
Lower Coastal League Season 4/BSL Season 8- Baleweye FC
Southern League Season 4/BSL Season 8- Bwubanza City SC
Northern League Season 4/BSL Season 8- Duntho Sporting Club
Promotion Playoff Winner- Corizova United

Northwestern League Season 5/BSL Season 9- Suwawa FC
Lower Coastal League Season 5/BSL Season 9- Capitol City FC
Southern League Season 5/BSL Season 9- Sororo City
Northern League Season 5/BSL Season 9- Igulu City FC
Promotion Playoff Winner- Igulu City FC

Northwestern League Season 6/BSL Season 10- Dukuma SC
Lower Coastal League Season 6/BSL Season 10- Capitol City FC
Southern League Season 6/BSL Season 10- Bwubanza City SC
Northern League Season 6/BSL Season 10- Duntho Sporting Club
Promotion Playoff Winner- Capitol City FC

Northwestern League Season 7/BSL Season 11- Suwawa FC
Lower Coastal League Season 7/BSL Season 11- Kabakono City
Southern League Season 7/BSL Season 11- Lwanga Lions
Northern League Season 7/BSL Season 11- Cerenus United
Promotion Playoff Winner- Suwawa FC

Northwestern League Season 8/BSL Season 12- Dukuma SC
Lower Coastal League Season 8/BSL Season 12- Zakuta City
Southern League Season 8/BSL Season 12- Sororo City
Northern League Season 8/BSL Season 12- Duntho Sporting Club
Promotion Playoff Winner- Dukuma SC

Northwestern League Season 9/BSL Season 13- Corizova United
Lower Coastal League Season 9/BSL Season 13- Kabakono City
Southern League Season 9/BSL Season 13- Sororo City
Northern League Season 9/BSL Season 13- Duntho Sporting Club
No Promotion Playoff this season due to Banijan pyramid re-organization.

Northwestern League Season 10/S-FPL Season 1- Barmos United
Lower Coastal League Season 10/S-FPL Season 1- Baleweye FC
Southern League Season 10/S-FPL Season 1- Lwanga Lions
Northern League Season 10/S-FPL Season 1- Igulu City FC

Northwestern League Season 11/S-FPL Season 2- Barmos United
Lower Coastal League Season 11/S-FPL Season 2- Djoro Athletic
Southern League Season 11/S-FPL Season 2- Boufaya Ravens
Northern League Season 11/S-FPL Season 2- Bunyoro RSC

Northwestern League Season 12/S-FPL Season 3- Eastern Moravica FC
Lower Coastal League Season 12/S-FPL Season 3- Koszagard City
Southern League Season 12/S-FPL Season 3- Lwanga Lions
Northern League Season 12/S-FPL Season 3- Igulu City FC

Northwestern League Season 13/S-FPL Season 4- Jaribga SC
Lower Coastal League Season 13/S-FPL Season 4- Nsade United
Southern League Season 13/S-FPL Season 4- Byakado City
Northern League Season 13/S-FPL Season 4- Cerenus United

Northwestern League Season 14/S-FPL Season 5- Jaribga SC
Lower Coastal League Season 14/S-FPL Season 5- Nsade United
Southern League Season 14/S-FPL Season 5- Lwanga Lions
Northern League Season 14/S-FPL Season 5- Dodoma City SC

Northwestern League Season 15/S-FPL Season 6- Barmos United
Lower Coastal League Season 15/S-FPL Season 6- Capitol City FC
Southern League Season 15/S-FPL Season 6- Abomfa United
Northern League Season 15/S-FPL Season 6- Luguyala Patriots

Regional League season 16, coinciding with S-FPL Season 7, was abandoned for financial reasons

Northwestern League Season 17/S-FPL Season 8- Suwawa FC
Lower Coastal League Season 17/S-FPL Season 8- Ogbordu Diamond FC
Southern League Season 17/S-FPL Season 8- Abomfa United
Northern League Season 17/S-FPL Season 8- Okakameb City

Northwestern League Season 18/S-FPL Season 9- Barmos United
Lower Coastal League Season 18/S-FPL Season 9- Jaribga SC
Southern League Season 18/S-FPL Season 9- Amaku City SC
Northern League Season 18/S-FPL Season 9- Luguyala Patriots

Busogan National League Season 1/S-FPL Season 10- Tezirbu Foxes
Moravican First Division Season 1/S-FPL Season 10- Suwawa FC
Lower Coastal League Season 19/S-FPL Season 10- Mamari City
Southern League Season 19/S-FPL Season 10- Bwubanza City SC
Northern League Season 19/S-FPL Season 10- Cerenus United

Busogan National League Season 2/S-FPL Season 11- Serizar FC
Moravican First Division Season 2/S-FPL Season 11- Suwawa FC
Lower Coastal League Season 20/S-FPL Season 11- Zakuta City
Southern League Season 20/S-FPL Season 11- Busemlu Park SC
Northern League Season 20/S-FPL Season 11- Cerenus United



Banijan Youth League
BSL season number listed as Youth league did not begin play until Season 7 of the BSL
Season 7- Bunyoro Regional Academy
Season 9- Moravica Regional Academy
Season 10- Moravica Regional Academy

Lacrosse
Banijan Lacrosse League Winners
Season 1- Herzegovina City Kings
Season 2- Bunyoro RSC
Season 3- Bunyoro RSC
Season 4- Bunyoro RSC
Season 5- Bunyoro RSC
Season 6- Herzegovina City Kings
Season 7- Jinja City Weasels
Season 8- Herzegovina City Kings

Ice Hockey
Greater Banijan Hockey League Winners
Season 1- Rosaria Knights
Season 2- Stalliongrad Mountaineers
Season 3- Rosaria Knights
Season 4- Rosaria Knights
Season 5- Rosaria Knights
Season 6- Quebec Grizzlies

American Football
Gridiron Football League of Banija Winners
Season 1- Lwanga Rhinos
Season 2- Busukuma Suns
Season 3- Istria Black Mambas

PostPosted: Sun Mar 27, 2016 12:11 pm
by Banija
The Premier Soccer League

Image


The Royal Banijan Soccer Association is proud to present the Premier Soccer League to the sporting world. This is the top division of soccer in Banija, competing with gridiron football to be the nation's most popular sport. The Premier Soccer League consists of 16 teams, who compete in two competitions. They compete in the Premier Soccer League, which is a double round-robin competition. The other major competition that PSL teams compete in is the RBSA Cup, which is a single-elimination knockout tournament.

Currently there is no system of promotion/relegation, as this is the only league that is truly nationwide. The format followed for league play is a double round-robin. The format followed for the RBSA Cup is each round(round of 16, 8, and 4) all being two legged affairs(away goals rule as the 1st tiebreaker), with a random draw of who is at home first. The final is one match located at the Stadium of the Restoration in the national capitol of Busukuma. Breaks are given midseason to allow for the play of the RBSA Cup, and the RBSA Cup final is always held one week after the Final Day at the Stadium of the Restoration in Istria. To start the beginning of a new season, a kickoff match is played between the RBSA Cup winners and the PSL winner(or, if they are the same, the 2nd place team of the PSL) for the Kabaka's Cup, which is the Banijan Supercup and the match is always attended by the reigning Kabaka, who personally awards the trophy to the winning team.

Teams in the BSL- Underlined players are Banijan internationals. Nationality is listed if they are not Banijan.
1. Herzegovina City Football Club. HZCFC. Location(city, region): Herzegovina City, Moravica. Colors: Blue & Gold.
Image
Star Field, Capacity of 40,000.

Manager: Kolt Freegan. Age 45; 5th year at club.
Starters: 4-3-1-2
GK #1 Ezekiel Mbabazi. Age 37.
LB #5 Goma Tewoldeberhan. Age 33.
LCB #2 Isaiah Odongoa. Captain. Age 32
RCB #4 Zinnah Atieno. Age 22.
RB #19 Massala Chahine. Age 29.
LM #7 Nikolay Menshikov. Age 22(Arioslavia).
CM #8 Boimah Ba. Age 29.
RM #17 Kofa Bah. Age 30.
CAM #10 Oso Onyango. Age 34.
LS #6 Ahmed Chahine. Age 29.
RS #9 Nega Bazin. Age 27.


2. Jinja City Football Club. JCFC. Location: Jinja City, Hangaza. Colors: Green & White.
Image
Kizza IX Stadium, Capacity of 29,000.

Manager: Alexander Bumba. Age 41, rookie head coach.
Starters: 4-4-2
GK #1 Massala Ballo. Age 35.
LB # 2 Fyodor Khalturin. Age 21(Arioslavia).
CB #15 Vincent Wilson. captain. Age 25.
CB #13 Simon Wanjala. Age 24.
RB #18 Yuri Poltoranin. Age 19(Arioslavia).
LM #14 Elias Abate. Age 26.
CM #24 Abel Ismael. Age 26(Huda).
CM #10 Tokpah Ba. Age 29.
RM #23 Sia Fall. Age 19.
ST #9 Toyuwa Okafor. Age 23.
ST #11 Saa Okoro. Age 29.


3. Busukuma Athletic Club. BAC. Location: Busukuma, National Capitol Region. Colors: Red & White.
Image
Johnson Field, Capacity of 37,000.

Manager: Sarh Sarr. Age 61; 12th year at club.
Starters: 3-4-3
GK #1. Ivan Ignatiev. Age 20(Arioslavia).
RB #2 Flomo Fall. Age 31.
CB #15 Mukasa Bukanda. Age 31. Captain
LB #6 Marbue Okeke. Age 33.
LM #7 Ansu Araya. Age 29.
CDM #18 Lamie Hailemariam. Age 30.
CAM #21 Toyuwa Sall. Age 29.
RM #8 Ansu Cisse. Age 22.
LS #11 Zwana Demoz. Age 28.
CS #9 Saah Desta. Age 24.
RS #25 Melaku Afeworki. Age 28.


4. Hoima Warriors. HOI. Location: Hoima, Ankole. Colors: Red & Silver.
Image
PG Arena, Capacity of 44,500.

Manager: Gabriel Vincent. Age 53, 4th year at club.
Starters: 3-5-2.
GK #1 Abu Turay. Age 32.
LB #5 Idowu Kwandani. Age 20.
CB #4 Tokpah Jalloh. Age 33.
RB #19 Kofa Toure. Age 27.
LM #13 Ansu Gebrezghi. Age 29.
CM #14 Peter Kamuntu. Age 30.
CM #22 Flomo Osei. Age 21.
RM #6 John Katumba. Captain. Age 24.
CAM #10 Marbue Owusu. Age 20.
LS #7 Andrey Soltykov. Age 19(Arioslavia).
RS #11 Mamo Berehunu. Age 29.


5. Mynda Soccer Club. MSC. Location: Mynda, Aksum. Colors: Forest Green.
Image
Kawesa Stadium. Capacity of 41,000.

Pascal Lehmkuhl(Bavaria). Age 64, 3rd year at the club.
Starters: 4-4-2
GK #1 Zinnah Ndiaye. Age 26.
RB #2 Lamie Yeboah. Age 34.
CB #4 Samson Gashi. Age 26.
CB #5 Saa Mensah. Age 27. Twin brother of Blama Mensah.
LB #3 Blama Mensah. Age 27. Twin brother of Saa Mensah.
RM #17 Josiah Buba. Age 26.
CM #15 Trokon Sesay. Age 26.
CM #12 Saa Traore. Age 25.
LM #8 Kwame Gebremichael. Age 27.
LS #11 Sarh Sane. Age 29.
RS #9 Abdul Habhab(Huda). Age 28.


6. Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club. UMSC. VFC. Location: Umbazi, Buganda. Colors: Pink.
Image
Buganda Regional Stadium, Capacity of 29,000.

Manager: Nezim Kadouh(Huda). Age 71, 11th year at the club.
Starters: 5-3-2 w/ sweeper
GK #1 Tehpoe Keita. Age 40.
RB #2 Siafa Diop. Age 23.
CB #5 Mata Yeboah. Age 32.
SW #3 Zwana Owusu. Captain. Age 30.
CB #4 Tehpoe Bah. Age 31.
LB #12 Saa Osei. Age 32.
LM #25 Asa Sylla. Age 22.
CM #31 Dwe Okoro. Age 29.
RM #17 Zwana Diop. Age 28.
LS #11 Toyuwa Gebremichael. Age 30.
RS #7 Ahmad Ibrahim(Huda). Age 27.
.

7. Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club. BRSC. Location: Dodomo, Bunyoro. Colors: Blue.
Image
Dodomo City Stadium, Capacity of 33,000.

Manager: Iphicrates Bella, Age 44, 1st year at club.
Starters: 3-3-3-1.
GK #1 Mohammed Al-Lasar(Huda). Age 35.
RB #2 Tamandani Arendse. Age 24.
CB #3 Chikondi Tokodoni. Age 30.
LB #14 Eniola Afolayan. Captain. Age 33.
CDM #15 Chinasa Arendse. Age 29.
RCM #12 Ihejirika Akachi. Age 28.
LCM #11 Jumaane Folami. Age 27.
RW #7 Kobina Irsay. Age 28.
CAM #10 Kiggwe Mavuto. Age 20.
LW #8 Thoko Kgosi. Age 27.
CS #9 Pilirani Makube. Age 20.


8. The Lwanga Lions. LLSC. Location: Lwanga, Buganda. Colors: Orange.
Image
Lwanga City Arena, Capacity of 26,500.

Manager: Stephano Lazos. Age 73, 11th year at club.
Starters: 4-2-1-3
GK #1 Tewodros Habibi. Age 32(Dual Hudian/Banijan citizen; eligible to play for Banija national team)
RB #2 Beheilu Dessalegne. Age 28.
CB #4 Assefa Roni. Age 29.
CB #5 Negus Kebede. Age 22.
LB #6 Kirubel Ayele. Age 20.
RCM #20 Alengae Sitotaw. Captain. Age 33.
LCM #25 Assi Finhas. Age 27.
CAM #10 Natnael Dagmawi. Age 26.
LW #7 Yemane Bessufekad. Age 28.
CS #9 Gizaw Mignote. Age 24.
RW #11 Ebissa Wolitigna. Age 29.


9. Askatasuna Football Club. AFC. Location: Askatasuna, Aksum. Colors: Green & White.
Image
St. Sava Park, Capacity of 37,500.

Protesilaus Soter. Age 65, 6th year at the club.
Starters: 4-4-2
GK #1 Ali Merhawi(Huda). Age 31.
RB #2 Melku Atikem. Age 27.
CB #5 Eba Zeru. Age 30.
CB #4 Barnabas Abdimelech. Captain. Age 31.
LB #18 Malek Abdullah(Huda). Age 27.
LM # 17 Orrin Mihal(Huda). Age 19.
CM # 13 Michael Negasso. Age 27.
CM #15 Alem Bekira. Age 27.
RM #12 Brehan Danichew. Age 29.
RS #7 Bekila Yeneneh. Age 30.
LS #11 Rada Ezera. Age 21.


10. Kitara Athletic Association. KAA. Location: Sisonke, Kitara. Colors: Blue & white.
Image
Sisonke City Park, Capacity of 31,000.

Flip Kollias. Age 56, 2nd year at club.
Starters: 3-3-1-3
GK #1 Aman Werkneh. Age 35.
RB #2 Berihu Temesgen. Age 20.
CB #15 Melech Gersem. Age 25.
LB #19 Gregory Hatzis. Age 33.
LM #11 Abraham Akampurira. Age 22.
CDM #14 Meherka Bitwoded. Captain. Age 32.
RM #8 Mekbib Asmelash. Age 27.
CAM #10 Francis Getachew. Age 29.
LS #7 Habtamu Girma. Age 23.
CS #9 Zewedu Alemayehu. Age 30.
RS #8 Taye Negasso. Age 28.


11. Istria City Football Club. RFC. Location: Downtown Istria, Moravica. (Neighborhood in the center of Istria in the National Capitol Region). Colors: Orange & Black.
Image
Istria City Park, Capacity of 30,500.

Manager: Erechtheus Condos. Age 67, 4th year at club.
Starters: 4-2-3-1
GK #1 Gabriel Negus. Age 31.
RB #2 Abel Atikem. Age 32.
CB #5 Abate Brehanu. Age 21.
CB #4 Noah Geteye. Age 22.
LB #18 Abraham Godefai. Age 20.
CDM #19 Robel Abeselome. Age 27.
CDM #15 Bullo Afework. Age 29.
LM #7 Abram Senay. Age 30.
CAM #10 Girma Asmelash. Age 27.
RM #11 Addis Anwar. Age 26.
ST #9 Matthias Muhumuza. Captain. Age 27.


12. Aissa United Football Club. AUFC. Location: Aissa, Hangaza. Colors: Blue & white.
Image
Hangaza Unified Stadium, Capacity of 55,000.

Manager: Gregory Banis
Starters: 5-4-1
GK #1 Yonas Tolla. Age 23.
RWB #2 Bona Demessie. Age 20.
RCB #15 Amensisa Belachew. Age 30.
CB #15 David Bzuayehu. Age 28.
LCB #17 Christopher Tadesse. Age 29.
LB #7 Travis Cherenebereck. Age 21.
RM #18 Amde Melos. Age 25.
CM #8 Amare Degu. Age 29.
CM #10 Oromo Berhanu. Age 30.
LM #23 Gabriel Teoflyos. Age 29.
ST #9 Chibuzo Lokodo. Captain.Age 27.


13. Isipongo Flash. IF. Location: Isipongo, Buganda. Colors: Black & white.
Image
Isipongo City Field. Capacity of 27,000.

Manager: Vasyitso Maris. Age 67, 7th year at club.
Starters: 4-3-2-1
GK #1 Alan Namara. Age 27.
RB #2 Abesalom Anwar. Age 30.
CB #5 Yacobe Atikem. Age 32.
CB #4 Alem Bessufekad. Age 23.
LB #14 Raphael Wendimu. Age 24.
LM #7 Youssef Negasi(Huda). Age 27.
CM #18 Amare Iskinder. Age 28.
RM #17 Elias Bayou. Age 28.
CAM #20 Lebna Ephram. Age 26.
CAM #10 Kezekia Mulogo. captain. Age 25. Right side.
ST #9 Akena Kenyatta. Age 21.


14. Dukuma Sporting Club. DSC. Location: Dukuma, Busoga. Colors: Purple & white.
Image
Orange Field, capacity of 17,000.

Manager: Prophyrios Tantalo. Age 51, 2nd year at club.
Starters: 4-4-2 diamond.
GK #16 Delbin Kasekende. Age 19.
RB #4 Gedarm Tewodros. Age 30.
CB #5 Gedeyon Debebe. Age 28.
CB #6 Amde Gersem. Age 26.
LB #23 Baslios Fisseha. Age 25.
CDM #21 Yonas Benti. Captain. Age 34
LM #7 Sirak Menas. Age 31.
RM #18 Jacob Mekonnen. Age 33.
CAM #10 Andre Mesay. Age 25.
RS #19 Girum Mikias. Age 23.
LS #9 Belai Kebede. Age 27.


15. Rukunbi Football Club. RFC. Location: Istria, Moravica. Located in Western Istria, the largest of the 5 districts of Istria with 38% of the city's population and generally considered to be culturally distinct from the rest of the city. Colors: Light Green & White.
Image
Eastern Stadium. Capacity of 37,000.

Manager: Teague Spanos. Age 57, 5th year at club.
Starters: 4-3-3
GK #1 Dawit Berhanu. Age 33.
RB #2 George Wangolo. Captain.Age 29.
CB #5 Berhane Abdikarim. Age 29. (Twin brother of Henoke Abdikarim).
CB #3 Henoke Abdikarim. Age 29. (Twin brother of Berhane Abdikarim).
LB #12 Anwar Elshaday. Age 27.
LM #13 Menkir Teka. Age 28.
CM #14 Addis Medr. Age 24.
RM #6 Kahu Meherka. Age 28.
LS #11 Amir Bezuayehu. Age 31.
CS #9 Amanuel Bsrat. Age 20.
RS #24 Robel Beselot. Age 22.


16. Lakiska Sporting Club. LSC. Location: Lakiska, Busoga. Colors: Red & black.
Image
Lakiska City Field. Capacity of 31,000.

Manager: Ambros Macris. Age 61, 4th year at club.
Starters: 4-5-1
GK #1 Meles Asmerom. Age 29.
RB #2 Noah Abdimelech. Age 28.
CB #5 Yafet Fekadu. Age 29.
CB #4 Menas Gebrekristos. Captain. Age 30.
LB #19 Zeru Beryihun. Age 20.
LM #7 Markos Dalu. Age 24.
CM #15 Joseph Zekulu. Age 31.
CDM #18 Elijah Riga. Age 27.
CM #14 Nathan Brehanu. Age 29.
RM #8 Ezekiel Wakayo. Age 26.
ST #9 Michael Kidane. Age 32.


National Stadium
The Stadium of the Restoration
Image
The National Stadium for a King's Cup final. Location: Busukuma. Capacity: 69,000.

Major ivalries
Istria City Derby between Istria City FC and Rukunbi FC as they are both located on opposite sides of Banija's largest city.
Battle for Hangaza's Soul between Jinja City FC and Aissa United Football Club.
Battle of the Princes between Isipongo Flash & the Lwanga Lions(as both teams are in cities named after former Princes of the Royal Family). ]

A 'final day' format is there for the last week of the regular season, with all games kicking off at the same time.

PostPosted: Sun Mar 27, 2016 3:28 pm
by Banija
First 10 matchdays of the Premier Soccer League see Istria City FC 6 points clear as the league's last unbeaten side

Image
Banijan international Matthias Muhumuza celebrates his second goal in 2-0 derby victory over archrival Rukunbi FC

ISTRIA- Banijan international and Istria City captain Matthias Muhumuza really hit the international stage during the last World Cup Qualifiers. The leading goalscorer for the national side, Matthias Muhumuza was expected to take a leading role for Istria City, his club side back home, when the PSL season started for Banija. Muhumuza was elected the team captain when he got back from the 66th Cup of Harmony, and he had a special motivation going into this season. A lot of the internationals, after losing their last CoH game 5-0, came back with a hunger, but none much more than Muhumuza. Muhumuza, the player who seems to always be on the field, was taken off of the field when the score was 3-0, and after an uncharacteristic yellow card.

Muhumuza has come back to Banija and has not only been in form, but has been on fire. Istria City FC has raced off to a fast start in the first third of the season, picking up 28 points out of a possible 30 to start the year. They won a whopping 8 games in a row to jump out to a big lead in the PSL standings, before their winning streak finally ended when in week 9 Hudian national Abdul Habhab scored 3 minutes into stoppage time in the second half to deny Istria City their 9th victory in a row. They clearly regrouped however, when they put up 4 first half goals against the Lwanga Lions here in week 10 en route to a 4-2 victory.

While Istria City were considered one of the early favorites to win the PSL, nobody thought that they could possibly have this could of a start. Getting 6 points clear, even at this early stage in the season, is a good gap for the side. While nothing is won just 10 weeks into the season, it is clear that the early team to beat are the men in orange. Matthias Muhumuza is leading a confident bunch, a team that will score and score quickly, as well as play capable defense. Even though their back line is very young, with their center backs being 21 & 22 years of age respectively, this team has a good combination of youth & experience at key positions that has allowed them to achieve this position, and puts them in a place to continue this early success.

For the first time, if everything goes correctly, the Royal Banijan Soccer Association is expected to put their best clubs in international competition. The UICA is the governing body for the most prestigious international club competitions, and Banija expects to send their champion to the Champions Cup, as well as send 3 more teams to the Globe Cup, and the RBSA Cup Winner to the Cup Winners Cup. This makes finishing high in the standings that much more of a priority, as international competition for Banijan clubs will be part of the major reform effort by Association head, Omulangira Thembo of Herzegovina, to help improve Banijan competitiveness in this sport at all levels.

Premier Soccer League Standings after 10 games

Code: Select all
                             Pld    W   D    L    GF   GA   GD   Pts                                                                                 
 1 Istria City FC              10    9   1   0    24   10  +14    28
 2 Busukuma Athletic Club      10    7   1   2    23   10  +13    22
 3 Jinja City FC               10    6   2   2    19    6  +13    20
 4 Askatasuna FC               10    6   2   2    25   17   +8    20
 5  Herzegovina City FC        10    6   1   3    25   15  +10    19
 6 Hoima Warriors              10    5   3   2    20   12   +8    18
 7 Kitara AA                   10    5   2   3    26   17   +9    17
 8 Bunyoro RSC                 10    4   3   3    22   17   +5    15
 9 Umbazi Metropolitan SC      10    4   2   4     8    9   −1    14
10 Isipongo Flash              10    3   4   3    17   21   −4    13
11 Mynda SC                    10    3   2   5    13   16   −3    11
12 Aissa United FC             10    2   2   6    19   27   −8     8
13 Lwanga Lions                10    2   2   6    12   25  −13     8
14 Rukunbi FC                  10    1   1   8     9   21  −12     4
15 Dukuma SC                   10    1   1   8    11   29  −18     4
16 Lakiska SC                  10    1   1   8     8   29  −21     4

PostPosted: Tue Mar 29, 2016 5:36 am
by Banija
First Round of RBSA Cup see Jinja City FC cruise to Quaterfinals of the tournament

Image
Jinja City FC celebrate the first of 5 first half goals away from home against the Isipongo Flash

ISIPONGO- The much-hyped RBSA Cup kicked off this weekend, a week off from league play and a week of knockout cup play. The random draw was complete, and 8 teams punched tickets to the quarterfinals of the tournament, while 8 teams bowed out of the tournament in the first round. Plenty of goals were scored today, as 7 out of the 16 teams who played scored at least 3 goals, and two different players(Matthias Muhumuza of Istria City FC & Toyuwa Okafor of Jinja City FC both had hat tricks.

We'll make a quick swing around the block before the summary of the match of the week. In the day's first two games, Aissa United FC scored a 5-3 victory in a thrilling home victory over league cellar-dwellars Dukuma SC. Also, at that same time, Istria City FC played regional rivals Herzegovina City FC, and the league leaders scored a 3-1 victory at home against the league's 5th placed team. They were led with a hat trick by Matthias Muhumuza, who scored his 3 goals in the 7th, 43rd, and 52nd minutes respectively.

Kitara Athletic Association & Mynda SC probably played the most exciting game of the day at a soldout Sisonke City Park. A Kitara AA stoppage time goal from Abraham Akampurira ended up forcing extra time, and the match itself went all the way down to penalty kicks, where Kitara AA hit its first 4 penalties and Mynda SC could only convert one. At that time, what is arguably the biggest upset of the day happened, when Busukuma AC fell 2-1 at home to Bunyoro RSC. Bunyoro RSC scored two early goals, and then just played suffocating defense for 90 minutes.

The opening game on Sunday was also a close game. They finished 0-0 after 90 minutes, but there was definitely excitment in overtime. The Lwanga Lions scored in the dying moments of the first half of extra time, but then Umbazi Metropolitan SC exploded in the 2nd half of extra time, scoring twice to pull out a victory from the jaws of defeat. The other 3 Sunday games were not as close, as the Hoima Warriors scored a comfortable 3-0 victory away from home against Lakiska SC. Jinja City FC took a 5-0 lead away from home against the Isipongo Flash before settling for a 5-2 victory, and Askatasuna FC scored a comfortable 2-0 home victory against Rukunbi FC, thanks to a double from veteran player Bekila Yeneneh.

Code: Select all
Istria City FC 3–1  Herzegovina City FC
Aissa United FC 5–3 Dukuma SC
Kitara AA 3–3 Mynda SC (3–3 AET) (4–1 pen.)
Busukuma Athletic Club 1–2 Bunyoro RSC
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 0–0 Lwanga Lions (2–1 AET)
Lakiska SC 0–3 Hoima Warriors
Isipongo Flash 2–5 Jinja City FC
Askatasuna FC 2–0 Rukunbi FC

PostPosted: Tue Mar 29, 2016 7:13 am
by Banija
2/3s of the way through the season; Jinja City FC takes a hold of first place in chaotic ten weeks

Image
Team celebrates Tokpah Ba's(#10) week 19 goal against Hoima Warriors that vaulted Jinja City FC into first place

JINJA CITY- The last 10 weeks of league play have been chaotic in the Premier Soccer League. After the first 10 weeks of play this season, Istria City FC was 6 points clear. While there was plenty of time to make up that gap from other teams as they were just 10 games into the season, nobody saw the chaos for the league's top spot coming that happened over the last 6 weeks of league play. Istria City FC, the perennial early league leaders, led the league up to and through week 13. Week 14, was where it started to get fuzzy.

In week 14, Istria City FC played on Saturday, while the Hoima Warriors played on Sunday. Istria City FC opened the weekend with a 3-1 loss away from home, allowing Herzegovina City to achieve its revenge for their elimination from the RBSA Cup at the hands of Istria City by that exact same score. This loss allowed an opening for the Hoima Warriors, and they took full advantage of it. The Hoima Warriors, on Sunday, at home against then then-14th placed Lakiska SC, pulled out a relatively easy 3-1 victory, and, because of that, the Hoima Warriors took the pole position in the PSL.

They held this spot for two weeks. Then, in week 16, a 2-0 home victory for Istria City FC over Bunyoro RSC, combined with a scoreless draw for the Hoima Warriors, saw Istria City FC retake its lead. Then, in week 18, the script flipped, as the Hoima Warriors once again took pole position in the PSL. Week 19, however, was the really interesting week. Week 19 saw the Hoima Warriors, the league leaders, host the 2nd place Jinja City FC, who was just 2 points behind. In a match that set viewing records for a domestic club sporting competition, Jinja City was able to travel away from home, to PG Arena, and pull out a 2-0 win to vault themselves into first place.

The real story, however, has been the rise of Jinja City FC. Jinja City FC has been having a solid season, always competing for a UICA competition spot. However, Jinja City FC have taken 15 points from their last 5 games, which means they are winners of 5 in a row. This includes, of course, travelling to the home of the league leaders to possibly the most hyped game of this season, and not just escaping with a point, but outplaying their hosts over the course of 90 minutes for a well-earned 2-0 victory. This win streak has popped them up to the top of the standings with just 10 games remaining. However, just a point sets them apart from the Hoima Warriors, with only one more point setting them apart from Askatasuna FC. At this point, there are quite a few teams with great chances to win the league, so it looks as if we'll have an exciting finish to this season down the stretch.

Code: Select all
                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts                                                                                 
 1 Jinja City FC               20   14   2   4    40   16  +24    44
 2 Hoima Warriors              20   13   4   3    51   24  +27    43
 3 Askatasuna FC               20   12   6   2    48   29  +19    42
 4 Istria City FC              20   12   3   5    40   27  +13    39
 5 Busukuma Athletic Club      20   11   4   5    35   21  +14    37
 6  Herzegovina City FC        20   10   3   7    41   31  +10    33
 7 Isipongo Flash              20    9   5   6    38   40   −2    32
 8 Bunyoro RSC                 20    9   3   8    52   42  +10    30
 9 Umbazi Metropolitan SC      20    8   4   8    17   17    0    28
10 Kitara AA                   20    7   6   7    45   37   +8    27
11 Mynda SC                    20    7   5   8    36   36    0    26
12 Lwanga Lions                20    4   5  11    29   50  −21    17
13 Aissa United FC             20    3   6  11    40   57  −17    15
14 Lakiska SC                  20    3   5  12    21   54  −33    14
15 Rukunbi FC                  20    1   6  13    23   43  −20     9
16 Dukuma SC                   20    2   3  15    25   57  −32     9

PostPosted: Tue Mar 29, 2016 8:03 pm
by Banija
Quarterfinals of RBSA Cup see 4 hard-fought, tight games as four teams punch ticket into semifinals of the RBSA Cup

Image
Umbazi Metropolitan SC striker Toyuwa Gebremichael celebrates extra time winner to put his team into RBSA Cup semifinals

UMBAZI- After 10 straight weekends of league play, the Premier Soccer League took a week off in favor of the RBSA Cup once again. Of course, 10 weeks ago, the last time this happened, everybody was playing, but now this time, in the quarterfinals, half of the league was off. Once you get to this late stage in any competition, the games are bound to be close, and that did not disappoint. All 4 games were close and tight until the very end, and there was no gulf in competition in any of the games. Any of the 8 teams could have won today, but unfortunately, at this stage teams must be eliminated, and 4 were eliminated, including one in the cruelest of ways on penalty kicks.

RBSA Cup Quarterfinal Results
Aissa United FC 0–0 Bunyoro RSC (1–1 AET) (5–4 pen.)
Jinja City FC 2–1 Istria City FC
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 1–1 Askatasuna FC (2–1 AET)
Hoima Warriors 2–0 Kitara AA


The Aissa United FC matchup with Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club ended, after 120 minutes, in a 0-0 draw. The game was very boring, and the crowd of 50,000+ at Hangaza Unified Stadium was largely bored by the match on the field. The penalties, however were a sight to behold. Each team hit its first 4 penalty kicks, which meant from that point forward, there was no room for error on either side. Pilirani Makube missed the 5th penalty for Bunyoro RSC, while Amare Degu drilled his for Aissa United FC, which brought his team to the semifinals of this tournament.

Regional archrivals Jinja City FC also pulled off a 2-1 victory, this one being their 6th straight victory in all competitions. Jinja City FC opened the scoring in the 1st half with a volley from captain Matthias Muhumuza in the 33rd minute. This was responded to almost immediately by a goal off of a corner kick in the 37th minute by Saa Okoro, and then the hosts won the game in the 86th minute when Tokpah Ba scored on a free kick from 23 yards out.

Umbazi Metropolitan SC & Askatasuna FC played a strong 90 minutes, but could not seperate themselves in that much time. However, striker Toyuwa Gebremichael scored in the 103rd minute, winning the game in extra time for Umbazi Metropolitan SC. Considering they are 6 places & 14 points behind Askatasuna FC in the current standings, the upset victory was impressive. Lastly, the Hoima Warriors had a close, but slightly more comfortable victory in their quarterfinal, as Arioslavian international Andrey Soltykov scored twice in their victory over Kitara AA in the friendly confines of the PG Arena.

There remain 4 teams standing in this competition. Those are Jinja City FC, Hoima Warriors, Umbazi Metropolitan SC, and Aissa United FC. These teams are currently ranked 1st, 2nd, 9th, and 13th respectively in the league. While the draw for the semifinals has not been made yet, it is clear that, due to their success in the league, Jinja City FC & the Hoima Warriors are both clear cut favorites to win this competition, with very little chance being given to Umbazi Metropolitan or Aissa United. However, in single-elimination cup competition, almost anything can happen, and Umbazi Metropolitan has clearly proven that upsets can happen at any time, on any day, especially in a knockout cup competition.

PostPosted: Wed Mar 30, 2016 9:07 pm
by Banija
Jinja City FC clinch league title with 2 weeks remaining with 2-1 away victory over the Isipongo Flash

Image
Striker Saa Okoro celebrates late winner against the Isipongo Flash that clinched the PSL for Jinja City

ISIPONGO- The biggest sporting news in Banija is the clinching of the Premier Soccer League by Jinja City FC. Jinja City FC, a team that were early favorites, made a slow start to the season. But, in week 19, they took first place in league play for the first time all season, and had a stranglehold on the position for the rest of the season. Starting in week 16, Jinja City FC caught fire. They pulled off an eleven game winning streak in all competitions, which meant taking maximum points 10 games in a row in league play down the stretch, as well as their RBSA Cup quarterfinal victory over Istria City FC.

That winning streak propelled them to the top of the standings, and kept them on top of the standings. Going into week 28, Jinja City FC was up 7 points on the Hoima Warriors with just 3 games to go, which meant a win on Saturday would clinch the league. Although it was away from home, Jinja City FC was not going to blow this opportunity. Rookie manager Alexander Bumba knew what it would mean to his team if they won this game, and he made sure they did. Saa Okoro scored twice in the 2nd half, including his 83rd minute winner, and Jinja City FC officially clinched the league championship. They will be awarded the trophy after their week 29 home matchup with Kitara AA.

Code: Select all
                               Pld   W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts                                         
 1 Jinja City FC               28   21   3   4    60   21  +39    66   
 2 Hoima Warriors              28   17   5   6    71   37  +34    56
 3 Askatasuna FC               28   16   8   4    72   44  +28    56
 4 Busukuma Athletic Club      28   15   6   7    49   34  +15    51
 5 Istria City FC              28   14   7   7    56   44  +12    49
 6 Isipongo Flash              28   13   7   8    53   51   +2    46
 7  Herzegovina City FC        28   13   5  10    55   46   +9    44
 8 Bunyoro RSC                 28   12   7   9    72   56  +16    43
 9 Kitara AA                   28   11   9   8    71   53  +18    42
10 Umbazi Metropolitan SC      28   11   4  13    28   29   −1    37
11 Mynda SC                    28    9   8  11    47   51   −4    35
12 Aissa United FC             28    6   8  14    59   78  −19    26
13 Rukunbi FC                  28    4   9  15    34   52  −18    21
14 Lwanga Lions                28    4   7  17    40   74  −34    19
15 Lakiska SC                  28    4   6  18    34   83  −49    18
16 Dukuma SC                   28    2   5  21    35   83  −48    11


RBSA Cup Semifinals see Aissa United FC score massive upset victory over archrivals & league champions Jinja City FC

Image
Aissa United FC captain Chibuzo Lokodo celebrates goal against archrival Jinja City FC

AISSA- The battle between Aissa United FC and Jinja City FC, for a spot in the RBSA Cup Final, was always going to be intense. These two teams are archrivals, and to be quite frank, they do not like each other one bit. Since this was the week after Jinja City FC clinched the league title, there was always going to be extra motivation from Aissa United FC to prevent their archrivals from achieving a domestic double in what otherwise is a disappointing season for AUFC. Aissa United FC came out firing on all cylinders, in a soldout Hangaza Unified Stadium, and won 3-1 over their archrivals.

They overwhelmed the league champions early and quickly. A 15th minute goal by captain and Banijan international Chibuzo Lokodo, followed by a 22nd minute goal by the same player, had the league champions down 2-0 early in the game. In this environment, in this atmosphere, the league champions did not have a chance. They split even the rest of the way, but tonight was Aissa United's night to celebrate. They punched a ticket to Busukuma with their 3-1 victory, and will play the league's #2 side Hoima Warriors, who took care of business 3-0 away from home against Umbazi Metropolitan SC.

RBSA Cup Semifinals
Aissa United FC 3–1 Jinja City FC
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 0–3 Hoima Warriors

PostPosted: Thu Mar 31, 2016 5:39 am
by Banija
Final Day: Busukuma Athletic Club clinches last available UICA spot

Image
Busukuma Athletic Club striker Saah Desta celebrates week 29 goal against Rukunbi FC to clinch Gold Cup spot

BUSUKUMA- The first three UICA competition spots had already been clinched after week 28. Jinja City FC had won the league, putting them into the prestigious UICA Champions Cup. After that, both the Hoima Warriors and Askatasuna FC had punched their tickets into 1st & 2nd Globe Cup spots respectively, there was only one international competition spot remaining. Busukuma Athletic Club, up 2 points with two games to go on Istria City FC, the team who started the season with 8 consecutive wins, were going to knock Istria City FC out of UICA competition altogether, a stunning thought after the way Istria City FC started this season.

They were able to successfully do that in week 29, when a 2-0 victory at home over Rukunbi FC, combined with a tough 3-2 loss for Istria City FC at home against Herzegovina City, allowed Busukuma Athletic Club to punch their ticket into the Globe Cup. Manager Sarh Sarr has been at the club for 12 years, and he was absolutely ecstatic for his team's victory. There was not much surprise in the final league standings, as Dukuma SC finished well in the cellar as they only grabbed 14 points from 30 matches, including picking up 22 losses. While it's impossible to say where next season will go, this season was a season of runs, as Istria City FC gained an early advantage, taking 28 points from its first 10 matches, but Jinja City FC finished strongest, as they won 11 games in a row down the stretch which really put the league title out of reach for the rest of the league.

Final Premier Soccer League Standings

Code: Select all
                              Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts                                                                                 
 1 Jinja City FC               30   21   4   5    60   22  +38    67
 2 Hoima Warriors              30   19   5   6    82   40  +42    62 
 3 Askatasuna FC               30   17   9   4    73   44  +29    60
 4 Busukuma Athletic Club      30   17   6   7    53   34  +19    57 
 5  Herzegovina City FC        30   15   5  10    59   48  +11    50
 6 Isipongo Flash              30   14   8   8    61   56   +5    50
 7 Istria City FC              30   14   7   9    58   48  +10    49
 8 Bunyoro RSC                 30   12   9   9    76   60  +16    45
 9 Kitara AA                   30   11  11   8    74   56  +18    44
10 Mynda SC                    30   10   9  11    54   57   −3    39
11 Umbazi Metropolitan SC      30   11   5  14    28   30   −2    38
12 Aissa United FC             30    6   9  15    60   82  −22    27
13 Rukunbi FC                  30    5   9  16    38   55  −17    24
14 Lwanga Lions                30    4   7  19    42   81  −39    19
15 Lakiska SC                  30    4   6  20    37   94  −57    18
16 Dukuma SC                   30    3   5  22    38   86  −48    14


RBSA Cup Final: Hoima Warriors dominate overmatched Aissa United FC 4-0 to take home RBSA Cup

Image
Hoima Warriors striker Mamo Berehunu celebrates his goal in RBSA Cup Final victory over Aissa United FC

BUSUKUMA- The Hoima Warriors, the league's second-place team, took care of business against Aissa United FC, as they ended the cinderella's dreams of hoisting a trophy in the RBSA Cup Final, as they defeated Aissa United FC by a score of 4-0. A double from the young Arioslavian international Andrey Soltykov, as well as goals from Mamo Berehunu and captain John Katumba, allowed the Hoima Warriors to dominate the Cup Final in the nation's capitol, and take home the RBSA Cup.

Manager Gabriel Vincent said that today was a 'great day' in the history of the Hoima Warriors. The Hoima Warriors would not only be qualified for the Globe Cup, the second UICA competition, but they would also play in the Cup Winners Cup, as they successfully navigated the terrains of the single-elimination tournament to declare themselves cup champions of Banija. He said that international competition would be tough, but he would work to improve his team over the offseason and do his country proud in international competition, as well as aim for the league title next season.

RBSA Cup Final
Aissa United FC 0–4 Hoima Warriors

PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2016 10:53 am
by Banija
Banijan clubs battle in first ever UICA competition for the Premier Soccer League

Image
Saah Desta celebrates winning goal to send Busukuma Athletic Club to the second round of Globe Cup competition

JINJA CITY- For the first time ever, the Banijan Premier Soccer League champion has entered international competition. They have entered into the UICA, where they are in the Champions Cup, while the Hoima Warriors, Busukuma Athletic Club, and Askatasuna FC, are all in the secondary UICA competition, the Globe Cup. Obviously, the prestige is in the Champions Cup, where the top teams go, but matches on both levels matter. Winning UICA games give exposure to the league, and most importantly, give Banijan players a chance to play against some of the world's best competition for their club, which will help them when World Cup 75 rolls around and they are called upon to play for their country.

Two of Banija's teams were eliminated in the preliminary rounds. Jinja City FC lost the first leg 2-1 away from home against the Lexington Victory. However, Lexington Victory took an early 1-0 lead at Kizza IX Stadium, and Jinja City FC, while scoring one goal in the 2nd half, could not score again as the Lexington Victory packed it in defensively and decisively won the 2 legged affair 3-2. There was a similar result in the Globe Cup for Askatasuna FC, where they also achieved an away goal in a 2-1 loss away from home in the first leg, but they simply could not put the ball in the back of the net as they fell 2-1 in their two legged affair with Tir Snake Strike.

Two of Banija's teams, however, achieved successes. Busukuma Athletic Club, the club from the capitol, won their two-legged Globe Cup affair 4-3 with Chell SC from San LLera, the place where national team manager Jan Casselerus used to coach. They drew 1-1 in San Llera, but then achieved a dramatic 3-2 victory at home, with an 87th minute goal clinching qualification for the second preliminary round of the Globe Cup. Young striker Saah Desta, who is making a run for the national team, scored a hat trick at home, stating his case that he deserves to be wearing green at the United Valhaven Championships, and the next WCQs.

The Hoima Warriors, who were 2nd in the league and the RBSA Cup champions, also advanced on away goals. They drew 2-2 away from home and followed that up with a 1-1 draw at home, where the Hoima Warriors clinched qualification for the next round in the Globe Cup. The second round preliminary draw happened immediately, with the Hoima Warriors getting the second leg at home in their draw with Xistrumbigonça from Dainer, and then with Busukuma Athletic Club drawing Ephesian FC from Zwangzug. While it is still extremely early in the competition, Banijans will be sure to watch closely when their teams take the field in UICA competition, as these players will have a unique opportunity to impress fans, and as these matches prepare Banija for the upcoming season.

Reforms coming to Premier Soccer League; Expansion in the works?

Image
PSL Chief talking about expanding the league to 20 teams

ISTRIA- Premier Soccer League Chief Jonah Vanston, officially titled the league Commissioner, has talked about expansion & reform ideas that he has had with the league's owners. "We want to make our league more competitive, and grow the sport within Banija and grow the league throughout the region. We have discussed a number of ideas to make our league more competitive. We want to market ourselves more to foreign players, which will bring about foreign growth. We have discussed, alongside the Omulangira, the idea of promotion/relegation with a second division, though the league owners unanimously agreed that promotion/relegation was a bad idea that could hurt team development and hurt the growth of the league."

"What league owners unanimously agreed upon though, however, was the need for expansion. Banija is a big country, and we believe that our next round of expansion should see us reach at least 18, but optimally, 20 teams. There are a number of markets that we have yet to reach, and similarly a number of cities and regions that could host another team. We will work with prospective owners, to get the infrastructure to place, and grow the league via expansion." He did not take any questions after the press conference.

PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2016 7:29 am
by Banija
Expansion officially announced for the Premier Soccer League

Image
PSL Commissioner Jonah Vanston officially announces expansion from 16 to 20 teams

ISTRIA- At the Premier Soccer League headquarters, league commissioner Jonah Vanston lived up to his vision of expansion & growth for both the league and the sport when he announced the final decision to expand the league from 16 to 20 teams across the country. After there were 8 applications, there were 4 ownership groups selected for expansion. Banija's capitol was the recipient of an expansion franchise, as there will now be a Busukuma Derby. There will now also be a second team in the Herzegovina City area, located in the suburb of Vidizi.

There are also two new cities getting PSL franchises. The first, of course, is Busembe, Kitara. The capitol city of the Kitara region, it is a soccer-crazy city that absolutely loves watching the sport. Its own TV market had the 4th highest ratings out of any TV market in the country for the previous Cup of Harmony, and their ownership is almost finished building a brand new, state of the art stadium that will hopefully seat around 40,000 spectators.

The other new city getting a PSL franchise is Bwubanza, Bunyoro. A city with a population of just a tad over 300,000 people, the PSL is having a more aggressive marketing campaign in the Bunyoro region. They only had one team in Bunyoro, the Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club, and now there is another opportunity for a rivalry, as this new team will step on that turf. While expansion draft details are in the works, it is rumored that the Premier Soccer League is heavily recruiting foreign free agents to participate in the expansion draft, so as to limit the exposure current clubs have to an expansion draft, since so many teams must draft.

The team names, in order of their mention, are as follows. They are the Busukuma Force, the Herzegovina Phoenix, the Busembe Timberwolves, and then the Bwubanza City Soccer Club. Expansion draft details, of course, will be released here first as soon as it is decided upon by the league and announced by the commissioner.

PostPosted: Tue Apr 26, 2016 8:00 am
by Banija
The Banijan Soccer League - Season 2

Image


The Royal Banijan Soccer Association is proud to present the freshly named and rebranded Banijan Soccer League to the sporting world. This is the top division of soccer in Banija, competing with gridiron football to be the nation's most popular sport. The Banijan Soccer League consists of 20 teams, with 4 fresh expansion franchises as compared to a season ago, who shall compete in two competitions. They compete in the Banijan Soccer League, which is a double round-robin competition. The other major competition that BSL teams compete in is the RBSA Cup, which is a single-elimination knockout tournament.

Currently there is no system of promotion/relegation, as this is the only nationwide fully professional soccer league in the nation. The format followed for league play is a double round-robin. The format followed for the RBSA Cup is each round the opponents are randomly drawn against each other, with one side randomly being picked as the home side. There must be a winner in each match, which means extra time & penalties are allowed(there are no draws or replays in the RBSA Cup). The final is one match located at the Stadium of the Restoration in the national capitol of Busukuma. Breaks are given midseason to allow for the play of the RBSA Cup, and the RBSA Cup final is always held one week after the Final Day at the Stadium of the Restoration in Istria. To start the beginning of a new season, a kickoff match is played between the RBSA Cup winners and the BSL winner(or, if they are the same, the 2nd place team of the BSL) for the Kabaka's Cup, which is the Banijan Supercup and the match is always attended by the reigning Kabaka, who personally awards the trophy to the winning team.

The format for the RBSA Cup this season shall be different with the addition of 4 sides to the Banijan Soccer League. In edition to the normal rounds(Round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinal, and Final) there shall be a Preliminary Round for the RBSA Cup. For this season alone, it shall consist of the bottom 4 placed teams in the league last season, all hosting one of the four expansion franchises. The winners shall advance to the Round of 16. For ensuing seasons, the preliminary round will consist of a team in the bottom 4 of the league playing away to a team in the next 4(placed 13th through 16th). The schedule for the RBSA Cup shall be the following:

Preliminary Round - After Week 8
Round of 16 - After Week 16
Quarterfinals - After Week 24
Semifinals - After Week 32
RBSA Cup FInal - One week after the conclusion of the Banijan Soccer League.

Teams in the BSL- Underlined players are Banijan internationals. Nationality is listed if they are not Banijan.
1. Herzegovina City Football Club. HZCFC. Location(city, region): Herzegovina City, Moravica. Colors: Blue & Gold.
(Image)
Star Field, Capacity of 40,000.


2. Jinja City Football Club. JCFC. Location: Jinja City, Hangaza. Colors: Green & White.
(Image)
Kizza IX Stadium, Capacity of 29,000.

DEFENDING LEAGUE CHAMPIONS.

3. Busukuma Athletic Club. BAC. Location: Busukuma, National Capitol Region. Colors: Red & White.
(Image)
Johnson Field, Capacity of 37,000.


4. Hoima Warriors. HOI. Location: Hoima, Ankole. Colors: Red & Silver.
(Image)
PG Arena, Capacity of 44,500.

DEFENDING RBSA CUP CHAMPIONS

5. Mynda Soccer Club. MSC. Location: Mynda, Aksum. Colors: Forest Green.
(Image)
Kawesa Stadium. Capacity of 41,000.


6. Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club. UMSC. VFC. Location: Umbazi, Buganda. Colors: Pink.
(Image)
Buganda Regional Stadium, Capacity of 29,000.


7. Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club. BRSC. Location: Dodomo, Bunyoro. Colors: Blue.
(Image)
Dodomo City Stadium, Capacity of 33,000.


8. The Lwanga Lions. LLSC. Location: Lwanga, Buganda. Colors: Orange.
(Image)
Lwanga City Arena, Capacity of 26,500.


9. Askatasuna Football Club. AFC. Location: Askatasuna, Aksum. Colors: Green & White.
(Image)
St. Sava Park, Capacity of 37,500.


10. Kitara Athletic Association. KAA. Location: Sisonke, Kitara. Colors: Blue & white.
(Image)
Sisonke City Park, Capacity of 31,000.


11. Istria City Football Club. RFC. Location: Downtown Istria, Moravica. (Neighborhood in the center of Istria in the National Capitol Region). Colors: Orange & Black.
Image
Kabonero III Field, Capacity of 48,000.


12. Aissa United Football Club. AUFC. Location: Aissa, Hangaza. Colors: Blue & white.
(Image)
Hangaza Unified Stadium, Capacity of 55,000.


13. Isipongo Flash. IF. Location: Isipongo, Buganda. Colors: Black & white.
(Image)
Isipongo City Field. Capacity of 27,000.


14. Dukuma Sporting Club. DSC. Location: Dukuma, Busoga. Colors: Purple & white.
(Image)
Orange Field, capacity of 17,000.


15. Rukunbi Football Club. RFC. Location: Istria, Moravica. Located in Western Istria, the largest of the 5 districts of Istria with 38% of the city's population and generally considered to be culturally distinct from the rest of the city. Colors: Light Green & White.
(Image)
Eastern Stadium. Capacity of 37,000.


16. Lakiska Sporting Club. LSC. Location: Lakiska, Busoga. Colors: Red & black.
(Image)
Lakiska City Field. Capacity of 31,000.


17. Busukuma Force. BKF. Location: Busukuma, National Capitol Region. Colors: Sky Blue
Image
Mugisha III Memorial Stadium, capacity of 49,000


18. Herzegovina Phoenix. Location: Vidizi, Moravica(suburb of Herzegovina City). Colors: Purple.
Image
Phoenix Stadium. Capacity of 25,000.


19. Busembe Timberwolves. BT. Location: Busembe, Kitara. Colors: Gray, Black, and White.
Image
The Wolf's Den. Capacity of 44,000.


20. Bwubanza City Soccer Club. BCSC. Location: Bwubanza, Bunyoro. Colors: Blue
Image
Bwubanza City Park, capacity of 40,000.


National Stadium
The Stadium of the Restoration
(Image)
The National Stadium for a King's Cup final. Location: Busukuma. Capacity: 69,000.

Major ivalries
Istria City Derby between Istria City FC and Rukunbi FC as they are both located on opposite sides of Banija's largest city.
Battle for Hangaza's Soul between Jinja City FC and Aissa United Football Club.
Battle of the Princes between Isipongo Flash & the Lwanga Lions(as both teams are in cities named after former Princes of the Royal Family).
The Capitol City Derby between Busukuma Athletic Club and the newly formed Busukuma Force.

A 'final day' format is there for the last week of the regular season, with all games kicking off at the same time.

PostPosted: Tue May 10, 2016 4:15 pm
by Banija
The Banijan Soccer League - Season 2 Rosters

Image


Teams in the BSL- Underlined players are Banijan internationals. Nationality is listed if they are not Banijan.
1. Herzegovina City Football Club.
Manager: Kolt Freegan. Age 46; 6th year at club.
Formation: 4-3-1-2
GK #1 Ezekiel Mbabazi. Age 37.
LB #5 Goma Tewoldeberhan. Age 33.
LCB #2 Isaiah Odongoa. Captain. Age 32
RCB #4 Zinnah Atieno. Age 22.
RB #19 Massala Chahine. Age 29.
LM #7 Nikolay Menshikov. Age 22(Arioslavia).
CM #8 Boimah Ba. Age 29.
RM #17 Kofa Bah. Age 30.
CAM #10 Oso Onyango. Age 34.
LS #6 Ahmed Chahine. Age 29.
RS #9 Nega Bazin. Age 27.

2. Jinja City Football Club.
Manager: Alexander Bumba. Age 42, 2nd year at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Massala Ballo. Age 35.
LB # 2 Fyodor Khalturin. Age 21(Arioslavia).
CB #15 Vincent Wilson. captain. Age 25.
CB #13 Simon Wanjala. Age 24.
RB #18 Yuri Poltoranin. Age 19(Arioslavia).
LM #14 Elias Abate. Age 26.
CM #24 Abel Ismael. Age 26(Huda).
CM #10 Tokpah Ba. Age 29.
RM #23 Sia Fall. Age 19.
RS #9 Toyuwa Okafor. Age 23.
LS #11 Noah Lamont Hill. Age 27(Devonta).

3. Busukuma Athletic Club.
Manager: Sarh Sarr. Age 62; 13th year at club.
Formation: 3-4-3
GK #1. Ivan Ignatiev. Age 20(Arioslavia).
RB #2 Flomo Fall. Age 31.
CB #15 Mukasa Bukanda. Age 31. Captain
LB #6 Marbue Okeke. Age 33.
LM #7 Ansu Araya. Age 29.
CDM #18 Lamie Hailemariam. Age 30.
CAM #21 Toyuwa Sall. Age 29.
RM #8 Ansu Cisse. Age 22.
LW #11 Zwana Demoz. Age 28.
ST #9 Saah Desta. Age 24.
RW #17 Melaku Afeworki. Age 28.

4. Hoima Warriors.
Manager: Gabriel Vincent. Age 53, 5th year at club.
Formation: 3-5-2.
GK #1 Abu Turay. Age 32.
LB #5 Idowu Kwandani. Age 20.
CB #4 Tokpah Jalloh. Age 33.
RB #19 Kofa Toure. Age 27.
LM #13 Ansu Gebrezghi. Age 29.
CM #14 Peter Kamuntu. Age 30.
CM #22 Flomo Osei. Age 21.
RM #6 John Katumba. Captain. Age 24.
CAM #10 Marbue Owusu. Age 20.
LS #7 Andrey Soltykov. Age 19(Arioslavia).
RS #11 Mamo Berehunu. Age 29.

5. Mynda Soccer Club.
Manager: Jose Gonzalez(Amazonesta). Age 61, 1st year at the club.
Starters: 4-4-2
GK #1 Zinnah Ndiaye. Age 26.
RB #2 Lamie Yeboah. Age 34.
CB #4 Samson Gashi. Age 26.
CB #5 Saa Mensah. Age 27. Twin brother of Blama Mensah.
LB #3 Blama Mensah. Age 27. Twin brother of Saa Mensah.
RM #17 Josiah Buba. Age 26.
CM #15 Trokon Sesay. Age 26.
CM #12 Miguel Freitas. Age 30(Amazonesta).
LM #8 Kwame Gebremichael. Age 27.
LS #11 Sarh Sane. Age 29.
RS #9 Meherka Edris. Age 29.

6. Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club.
Manager: Yafet Kahsai. Age 49, rookie manager.
Starters: 5-3-2 w/ sweeper
GK #1 Assefa Berhane. Age 22.
RB #2 Siafa Diop. Age 23.
CB #5 Mata Yeboah. Age 32.
SW #3 Zwana Owusu. Captain. Age 30.
CB #4 Tehpoe Bah. Age 31.
LB #12 Saa Osei. Age 32.
LM #25 Asa Sylla. Age 22.
CM #31 Dwe Okoro. Age 29.
RM #17 Zwana Diop. Age 28.
LS #11 Toyuwa Gebremichael. Age 30.
RS #7 Vicente Bernardes. Age 28(Amazonesta).

7. Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club.
Manager: Iphicrates Bella, Age 44, 1st year at club.
Starters: 3-3-3-1.
GK #1 Mohammed Al-Lasar(Huda). Age 35.
RB #2 Tamandani Arendse. Age 24.
CB #3 Chikondi Tokodoni. Age 30.
LB #14 Eniola Afolayan. Captain. Age 33.
CDM #15 Chinasa Arendse. Age 29.
RCM #12 Ihejirika Akachi. Age 28.
LCM #11 Jumaane Folami. Age 27.
RW #7 Kobina Irsay. Age 28.
CAM #10 Kiggwe Mavuto. Age 20.
LW #8 Thoko Kgosi. Age 27.
ST #9 Bruno Rodrigues. Age 27(Amazonesta).

8. The Lwanga Lions.
Manager: Stephano Lazos Jr. Age 50, Rookie manager(son of the previous manager).
Starters: 4-2-1-3
GK #1 Leandro Garcia. Age 29(Amazonesta).
RB #2 Beheilu Dessalegne. Age 28.
CB #4 Assefa Roni. Age 29.
CB #5 Negus Kebede. Age 22.
LB #6 Kirubel Ayele. Age 20.
RCM #20 Alengae Sitotaw. Captain. Age 33.
LCM #25 Assi Finhas. Age 27.
CAM #10 Natnael Dagmawi. Age 26.
LW #7 Yemane Bessufekad. Age 28.
ST #9 Gizaw Mignote. Age 24.
RW #11 Ebissa Wolitigna. Age 29.

9. Askatasuna Football Club.
Manager: Protesilaus Soter. Age 66, 7th year at the club.
Starters: 4-4-2
GK #1 Ali Merhawi(Huda). Age 31.
RB #2 Melku Atikem. Age 27.
CB #5 Eba Zeru. Age 30.
CB #4 Barnabas Abdimelech. Captain. Age 31.
LB #18 Malek Abdullah(Huda). Age 27.
LM #17 Diego Furtado. Age 26(Amazonesta).
CM # 13 Michael Negasso. Age 27.
CM #15 Alem Bekira. Age 27.
RM #12 Brehan Danichew. Age 29.
RS #7 Bekila Yeneneh. Age 30.
LS #11 Rada Ezera. Age 21.

10. Kitara Athletic Association.
Manager: Flip Kollias. Age 57, 3rd year at club.
Starters: 3-3-1-3
GK #1 Aman Werkneh. Age 35.
RB #2 Enzo Capistran. Age 27(Amazonesta).
CB #15 Melech Gersem. Age 25.
LB #19 Gregory Hatzis. Age 33.
LM #11 Abraham Akampurira. Age 22.
CDM #14 Meherka Bitwoded. Captain. Age 32.
RM #8 Mekbib Asmelash. Age 27.
CAM #10 Francis Getachew. Age 29.
LW #7 Habtamu Girma. Age 23.
ST #9 Zewedu Alemayehu. Age 30.
RW #8 Taye Negasso. Age 28.

11. Istria City Football Club.
Manager: Erechtheus Condos. Age 67, 4th year at club.
Starters: 4-2-3-1
GK #1 Gabriel Negus. Age 31.
RB #2 Berihu Abeselome. Age 21.
CB #5 Maximiliane Purcell(Nephara). Age 21.
CB #4 Noah Geteye. Age 22.
LB #18 Abraham Godefai. Age 20.
CDM #19 Robel Abeselome. Age 27.
CDM #15 Bullo Afework. Age 29.
LM #7 Abram Senay. Age 30.
CAM #10 Girma Asmelash. Age 27.
RM #11 Addis Anwar. Age 26.
ST #9 Matthias Muhumuza. Captain. Age 27.

12. Aissa United Football Club.
Manager: Gregory Banis, Age 51. 2nd year at club.
Starters: 5-4-1
GK #1 Yonas Tolla. Age 23.
RWB #2 Bona Demessie. Age 20.
RCB #15 Amensisa Belachew. Age 30.
CB #15 Marcelo Braga. Age 24(Amazonesta).
LCB #17 Christopher Tadesse. Age 29.
LB #7 Travis Cherenebereck. Age 21.
RM #18 Amde Melos. Age 25.
CM #8 Amare Degu. Age 29.
CM #10 Oromo Berhanu. Age 30.
LM #23 Gabriel Teoflyos. Age 29.
ST #9 Chibuzo Lokodo. Captain.Age 27.

13. Isipongo Flash.
Manager: Vasyitso Maris. Age 68, 8th year at club.
Starters: 4-3-2-1
GK #1 Alan Namara. Age 27.
RB #2 Abesalom Anwar. Age 30.
CB #5 Yacobe Atikem. Age 32.
CB #4 Alem Bessufekad. Age 23.
LB #14 Raphael Wendimu. Age 24.
LM #7 Youssef Negasi(Huda). Age 27.
CM #18 Bernardo Nuno. Age 26(Amazonesta).
RM #17 Elias Bayou. Age 28.
RCAM #20 Lebna Ephram. Age 26.
LCAM #10 Kezekia Mulogo. captain. Age 25. Right side.
ST #9 Akena Kenyatta. Age 21.

14. Dukuma Sporting Club.
Manager: Prophyrios Tantalo. Age 51, 2nd year at club.
Starters: 4-4-2 diamond.
GK #16 Delbin Kasekende. Age 19.
RB #14 Caio Batista. Age 25(Amazonesta).
CB #5 Gedeyon Debebe. Age 28.
CB #6 Amde Gersem. Age 26.
LB #23 Baslios Fisseha. Age 25.
CDM #21 Yonas Benti. Captain. Age 34
LM #7 Sirak Menas. Age 31.
RM #18 Jacob Mekonnen. Age 33.
CAM #10 Andre Mesay. Age 25.
RS #19 Girum Mikias. Age 23.
LS #9 Belai Kebede. Age 27.

15. Rukunbi Football Club.
Manager: Teague Spanos. Age 57, 5th year at club.
Starters: 4-3-3
GK #1 Dawit Berhanu. Age 33.
RB #2 George Wangolo. Captain.Age 29.
CB #5 Berhane Abdikarim. Age 29. (Twin brother of Henoke Abdikarim).
CB #3 Henoke Abdikarim. Age 29. (Twin brother of Berhane Abdikarim).
LB #12 Anwar Elshaday. Age 27.
LM #13 Menkir Teka. Age 28.
CM #14 Chase Page. Age 30(Nephara). Captain.
RM #6 Kahu Meherka. Age 28.
LW #11 Amir Bezuayehu. Age 31.
ST #9 Amanuel Bsrat. Age 20.
RW #24 Robel Beselot. Age 22.

16. Lakiska Sporting Club.
Manager: Ambros Macris. Age 61, 4th year at club.
Starters: 4-5-1
GK #1 Zachariah Elmer. Age 24(Nephara).
RB #2 Noah Abdimelech. Age 28.
CB #5 Cássio Cardoso. Age 25(Amazonesta).
CB #4 Menas Gebrekristos. Captain. Age 30.
LB #19 Zeru Beryihun. Age 20.
LM #7 Markos Dalu. Age 24.
CM #15 Joseph Zekulu. Age 31.
CDM #18 Elijah Riga. Age 27.
CM #14 Nathan Brehanu. Age 29.
RM #8 Ezekiel Wakayo. Age 26.
ST #9 Michael Kidane. Age 32.

17. Busukuma Force.
Manager: Tibebu Eyoel. 63 years old.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Meles Asmerom. Age 30.
RB #13 Zekulu Bullo. Age 29.
CB #5 Jack Fayne. Age 28(Nephara).
CB #4 Tesheme Yalaxow. Age 29.
LB #14 Nahom Abimelech. Age 33.
RM #17 Abdul Ramaas. Age 29.
CM #10 Addis Medr. Age 24.
LCM #15 Yideg Negasi. Age 32.
LM #8 Meba Fisahaye. Age 23.
RS #11 Meba Keya. Age 30.
LS #9 Abdella Markos. Age 31.

18. Herzegovina Phoenix.
Manager: Motuma Essayas. Age 61.
Formation: 4-3-3(defensive)
GK #1 Gersem Markos. Age 28.
RB #2 Vastyn Tredillick. Age 21(Ceni).
CB #3 Yafet Fekadu. Age 30. Captain.
CB #5 Eba Feleke. Age 26.
LB #4 Aaron Eyob. Age 28.
RDM #15 Israel Dejene. Age 29.
LDM #14 Fasika Boru. Age 28.
CM #8 Karl Sturrock. Age 34(Nephara).
LW #7 Baslios Temesgen. Age 23.
ST #9 Chase Pershing. Age 30(Brenecia).
RW #12 Kayin Meseret. Age 27.

19. Busembe Timberwolves.
Manager: Zemenfes Nataye. Age 65.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Neway Kidane. Age 33.
RB #2 Berihu Temesgen. Age 20.
CB #4 Mebreatu Abay. Age 29.
CB #5 Abate Brehanu. Age 21.
LB #3 Paco Orona. Age 32(Amazonesta). Captain.
RM #7 Melaku Tesfa. Age 25.
CM #19 Julio Leal. Age 26(Amazonesta).
CM #12 Kebede Henoke. Age 29.
LM #8 Ruphael Getachew. Age 30.
RS #9 Bekele Kidane. Age 30.
LS #11 Saa Okoro. Age 29.

20. Bwubanza City Soccer Club.
Manager: Tessema Negasi. Age 60.
Formation: 3-1-3-3
GK #1 Dawit Iskinder. Age 35.
RB #14 Gedarm Tewodros. Age 30.
CB #4 David Bzuayehu. Age 28.
LB #18 Mebrete Essayas. Age 30.
CDM #21 Awash Menasse. Age 29.
RM #17 Mekdem Mesfin. Age 28.
CM #18 Amare Iskinder. Age 28.
LM #12 Basliel Berhanu. Age 29.
RW #7 Federico Paiz. Age 29(Amazonesta).
ST #9 Manasses Teshome. Age 22.
LW #11 Blanco Rivero. Age 31(Amazonesta).

PostPosted: Tue May 10, 2016 8:07 pm
by Banija
Banijan Soccer League Preview for Season 2

Image
Former Devontan international Noah Lamont Hill celebrates a goal for new club Jinja City FC in 4-2 Kabaka's Cup rout over the Hoima Warriors

Kabaka's Cup
Jinja City FC 4–2 Hoima Warriors


BUSUKUMA- As the Banijan Soccer League season approaches, there are quite a few things for fans of this league to watch for. Of course, the excitement is picking up as Jinja City FC and the Hoima Warriors, both fresh off UICA competitions, played for the Kabaka's Cup, which is Banija's supercup. Contested between the league winners and the RBSA Cup winners, Jinja City FC started out its title defense with an emphatic 4-2 victory over the Hoima Warriors. Much was made over whether or not Jinja City FC would be able to repeat. They got valuable UICA experience, especially in the Champions Cup, and they seem like they are in a good position to repeat as league champions after that game. They added Noah Lamont Hill, a Devontan striker, who did not play in the regional championships recently hosted by Banija, but who scored in his first game at his new club. They expect big things from him in the future, and he gave fans a glimpse of his true potential.

Of course, the upcoming season is not a UICA season, which mean that competition's qualification will not be at stake, but the race for the league will be even fiercer. That's because there are four new teams in the league, which means the league expanded by 25% of its previous size, going from 16 teams to the standard 20 teams that you see in most soccer leagues around the world. The new teams are, of course, a welcome addition to the league. They will make the competition tougher and fiercer, and the players on those teams are excited to get going. There are two major differences, however, between this season and last season.

The first, of course, are the looming World Cup Qualifiers. Qualifying for the 75th World Cup is upcoming, and this will be everybody's last chance to impress Jan Cassallerus before the upcoming tournament. Cassallerus led a team very similar to the previous cycle's squad to a 3rd place at the regional championships hosted here, which showed that he can deliver some results. but he indicated that he was not happy with the 1-0 losses to regional powers Frenline Delpha and Devonta, and that he wanted to take a team where he could overpass their regional rivals. Of course, that means individual players, like Toyuwa Okafor of Jinja City, and Saa Okoro of the Busembe Timberwolves, just to name a few, will be watched closely throughout the season by Cassallerus, and will be under pressure to perform.

The second, has to be the foreign influence. The Banijan Soccer League campaigned hard to market the league to foreign players, and it had great success. It can proudly announce that they have at least one foreign player on every single team in the league, and there will hopefully be more in the future. Banijan officials, of course, are hoping that they can raise the quality of play and the talent levels in the league by bringing these talents from abroad, which help Banijan clubs compete in international competitions, and help develop Banijan nationals if they are consistently playing against strong internationals. There is benefit for everybody involved, and we'll see what kind of influence these players have within Banija.

Of course, the first game of the league start in 2 weeks, when Jinja City FC will begin their defense of their league title from a season ago. Our prediction is that Jinja City will hold onto its title, while the Hoima Warriors will finish second. We're predicting Busukuma Atheltic Club will finish 3rd, while at least one of the expansion teams will surprise and at the very least, threaten for a top 4 finish. Of course, it's all speculation until the teams hit the field, so we'll see you when that happens in 2 weeks!

PostPosted: Wed May 11, 2016 7:12 pm
by Banija
Opening Weekend sees expansion franchises go 0-3-1; Defending Champions fall 2-0 in the nation's capitol

Image
Busukuma Athletic Club players celebrate the team's 2nd goal late in the 2nd half against defending champions Jinja City

BUSUKUMA- This weekend, the weekend all Banijan soccer fans have been waiting for, of course, was opening weekend of the Banijan Soccer League. This season, for the first time ever, 20 teams are competing in the Banijan Soccer League. And, of course, with this being the last season before World Cup Qualifiers, tensions are up, as players across the league are doing their best to impress their coaches, whether Banijan or foreign.

Of course, the results of the games mattered too. Even though this season is not a UICA qualifying campaign, this is still a competition for the title of best team in Banija, and each & every team are going to compete hard for that championship. For the opening match of the season, defending league champions and Kabaka's Cup winners Jinja City FC travelled back to the nation's capitol to play Busukuma Athletic Club, who were 4th place last season but had the best UICA performance out of any Banijan club team. Busukuma Athletic Club, on their home field, beat the defending champs 2-0, where central striker Saah Desta had a double.

Elsewhere around the league, the four expansion franchises made their top flight debuts. As is almost always true with expansion franchises, they struggled out of the gate, as the brand new Herzegovina side lost 3-1 on their home field to start their first ever campaign. The Busembe Timberwolves lost 2-1 away from home, while Bwubanza City Soccer Club lost to lowly Dukuma SC 1-0. That game was thought to be the best chance for any of the four expansion sides to win their opener, but obviously they could not pull that one off. The best expansion performance was from the Busukuma Force, who drew 1-1 with Mynda SC after a 90+3 goal from 30 year old striker Meba Keya.

Of course, there were 5 other games played this weekend. The Hoima Warriors shook off their ugly performance in the Kabaka's Cup, as they won 2-0 away from home over Kitara AA. Bunyoro RSC and the Isipongo Flash fought to a 2-2 stalemate, while Herzegovina City FC and Aissa United FC also fought to a stalemate, though that game ended at 0-0. Askatasuna FC, the qualifier for the UICA who was eliminated in the 1st qualifying round of the Globe Cup this past summer, won 1-0 away from home, and Umbazi Metropolitan SC won 2-1 over the Lwanga Lions.

Of course, there are 37 games left, so not much can be drawn from this weekend. However, what we do know is that soccer is indeed back in Banija. Of course, during the season Jinja City FC, as the league champions, and the Hoima Warriors, as the cup champions, will be playing in the United Valhaven Soccer League, a champions cup style tournament for members of the region. Banija's clubs are expected to fare better than Banija's national team, simply due to the experience those two sides got playing in UICA competition, even if both only played 4 matches.

Opening Weekend Scores
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 2–1 Lwanga Lions
Kitara AA 1–2 Hoima Warriors
Rukunbi FC 2–1 Busembe Timberwolves
Herzegovina Phoenix 1–3 Istria City FC
Busukuma Athletic Club 2–0 Jinja City FC
Bunyoro RSC 2–2 Isipongo Flash
Lakiska SC 0–1 Askatasuna FC
Busukuma Force 1–1 Mynda SC
Dukuma SC 1–0 Bwubanza City Soccer Club
Herzegovina City FC 0–0 Aissa United FC


Also, the draw for the Preliminary Rounds of the RBSA Cup has been set. Remember, each of the expansion franchises will play away to one of the bottom 4 teams in the BSL last season.

Preliminary Round Draw for The RBSA Cup - Home team listed first
Dukuma SC vs. Busembe Timberwolves
Rukunbi FC vs. Bwubanza City Soccer Club
Lakiska SC vs. Herzegovina Phoenix
Lwanga Lions vs. Busukuma Force

PostPosted: Thu May 12, 2016 2:46 pm
by Banija
Around the Banijan Soccer League: Busukuma Athletic Club best team after 8 games

Image
Winger Zwana Demoz celebrates a goal during a week 3 victory over the Busembe Timberwolves

BUSUKUMA- The story this season, so far, is all about Busukuma Athletic Club. They have only dropped points one time all season throughout the first 8 games, which was a week 6 3-3 draw away from home with Kitara Athletic Association. That means they have taken 22 out of a possible 24 points, and they find themselves with an early cushion in the season standings, as they are 5 points clear of the rest of the league. Of course, last year Istria City FC got off to an ever hotter start, when they took 28 out of a possible 30 points to start the season, but they fizzled out the rest of the season and did not even qualify for any UICA competition spot.

Of course, Busukuma Athletic Club is looking to have a different kind of ending to the season after its blazing start than Istria City. "We learned last year that the season is not over until it is over, watching Istria City play" Said manager Sarh Sarr, who is in his 13th season managing the club, with the first 11 of course occurring at the regional level before last season, when fully professional nationwide soccer was introduced to the Kingdom of Banija by the Royal Banijan Soccer Association, as part of reforms launched by the Omulangira. "A hot start, if it cannot be backed up by good play, means nothing. Of course, we are ecstatic that we have taken 22 out of a possible 24. This puts us in a good position for the rest of the season, but we cannot take our foot off of the gas now. If anything, we now have the target on our back. We need to be able to continue our present form, and even be able to take points when we aren't at our best, which is something that is extremely tough to do." READ MORE...

Jinja City FC wonder what has gone wrong with the defending champions mid table after 8 games

The defending champs, of course, started the campaign with a bang with an emphatic 4-2 victory over the Hoima Warriors for the Kabaka's Cup. Many thought after that performance, they'd pick up where they left off from last season. Unfortunately, that hasn't been the case for the defending champs. They fell all the way to 14th in week 6, and even though they have won their last two games, 8th place is not where they want to be for the duration of this tournament. Manager Alexander Bumba, of course, isn't worried. "This team is an extremely competitive team, one that can win a lot of games. It's extremely early in the season, the standings don't matter so much right now. What matters right now is our ability to play well and win games, which we've now done twice in a row. I'm still confident that we are capable of achieving our goals this season."

Surprising success from Bunyoro RSC as the team is in 2nd place after 8 games

While it's still extremely early in the season, Bunyoro RSC cannot be happier about the position they are in. Last season, they were a mid-table team, finishing in 8th place. Nobody predicted that they would really move from that place, due to their inconsistency. On their best day, they can compete with anybody, but they can also surprise you by following up a good performance with an extremely awful performance. However, the team has improved on the offensive side of the pitch. Bruno Rodrigues, the Amazonestan striker they signed during the offseason, has made his presence felt, scoring 5 goals, with one coming in each of the team's 5 wins.

Banijan Soccer League            Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Busukuma Athletic Club 8 7 1 0 21 8 +13 22
2 Bunyoro RSC 8 5 2 1 16 10 +6 17
3 Isipongo Flash 8 5 1 2 19 13 +6 16
4 Herzegovina City FC 8 4 4 0 12 7 +5 16
5 Hoima Warriors 8 4 2 2 14 9 +5 14
6 Istria City FC 8 4 1 3 18 14 +4 13
7 Lwanga Lions 8 4 1 3 12 11 +1 13
8 Jinja City FC 8 4 0 4 15 10 +5 12
9 Bwubanza City Soccer Club 8 4 0 4 12 10 +2 12
10 Kitara AA 8 3 2 3 16 14 +2 11
11 Askatasuna FC 8 3 2 3 6 8 −2 11
12 Busukuma Force 8 3 1 4 17 15 +2 10
13 Herzegovina Phoenix 8 3 1 4 11 13 −2 10
14 Dukuma SC 8 3 1 4 7 11 −4 10
15 Aissa United FC 8 2 2 4 4 10 −6 8
16 Busembe Timberwolves 8 2 1 5 14 18 −4 7
17 Umbazi Metropolitan SC 8 2 1 5 9 13 −4 7
18 Lakiska SC 8 2 1 5 12 20 −8 7
19 Rukunbi FC 8 2 1 5 6 18 −12 7
20 Mynda SC 8 1 1 6 6 15 −9 4

PostPosted: Thu May 12, 2016 4:11 pm
by Banija
Expansion franchises go 3 out of 4 in the Preliminary Rounds of the RBSA Cup

Image
Busembe Timberwolves striker Saa Okoro celebrates his second goal in his team's 3-0 victory over Dukuma SC

RBSA Cup Preliminary Round Scores
Dukuma SC 0–3 Busembe Timberwolves
Rukunbi FC 0–1 Bwubanza City Soccer Club
Lakiska SC 1–0 Herzegovina Phoenix
Lwanga Lions 0–2 Busukuma Force


DUKUMA- For the rest of the league, this week was an off week. A chance to rest up, get your players healthy, get everybody healthy. For 8 teams however, the bottom 4 of the league last season and the four expansion franchises, this was anything but an off week. This was a week for the RBSA Cup, a week for the cup tie. Of course, for the preliminary rounds, it was decided that each of the expansion franchises would play away to one of the 4 bottom finishers in the league last season. Of course, the format for the preliminary round is always up for discussion, but the teams seemed to like the model, and the spotlight of playing early in the tournament helped give these teams exposure. They made the most of it, as 3 of 4 of the expansion franchises won away from home.

The Busembe Timberwolves made the most of their chance in the spotlight, taking the first time slot on Saturday afternoon. They made the most of their opportunity, as the Timberwolves ran wild all over Dukuma SC and won 3-0. Saa Okoro had a double, and Amazonestan midfielder Julio Leal added a 3rd as they easily advanced to the next round of the tournament. The Busukuma Force also took care of business away from home, as 1st half goals by strikers Meba Keya and Abdella Markos allowed them to bottle up and protect throughout the entirety of the 2nd half. The two other games, were tight matches.

Lakiska SC was able to triumph over the Herzegovina Phoenix 1-0 at home. A strike by Michael Kidane gave the team a 1-0 lead, and the defense stayed strong in front of Lakiska goalkeeper Zachariah Elmer. The game was fairly boring, with not many chances from either side, but Kidane made the most of his and put his team into the Round of 16 of this tournament. Bwubanza City Soccer Club was also able to eke out a 1-0 victory, but that was a game they dominated and should have won by more. Bwubanza City wasted chance after chance, though winger Federico Paiz struck in the 72nd minute to give his team 1-0 victory over hosts Rukunbi FC.

Some Banijan players making the push for the final World Cup Squad

Image
Busukuma Athletic Club striker Saah Desta celebrating a goal this season. Can he make the national team come next year?

It was always going to be tough making the World Cup squad this year. The quality of the league improved, and the quality of the team improved. However, an opening was given at the United Valhaven Regional Championships, when Banija lost 1-0 on home soil to both Frenline Delpha and Devonta. They are the region's two powerhouses, but Banija was hoping for more on home soil in this tournament. It was clear that the Banijans were not happy with 3rd place, which gives an opening for some offensive minded players to join the squad.

Striker Saa Okoro won the league championship with Jinja City FC last season. He was an integral part of their team, and he might make the World Cup Squad. However, the team got rid of him to make room for Devonta striker Noah Lamont Hill. Okoro is in the prime of his career, and this could be his real last chance to make a World Cup Qualifying squad. Striker Saah Desta, who is 24, is also threatening to make the squad. Saah Desta is an extremely talented player, and he played well for Busukuma Athletic Club both last season, and has had a solid start to this season as well. He has a nose for goal, and many believe that he will make the 40 man preliminary roster.

There are several other names being thrown out there who are playing well domestically right now. Striker Toyuwa Okafor comes to mind, as well as Isipongo's right midfielder Elias Bayou, who has been a key cog on that team in their 5 win start to the season. Of course, with the current Banijan back line, especially the center back pairing, not playing their best right now, some defenders will also get a look. Names that come to mind are 22 year old Zinnah Atieno on Herzegovina City FC, as well as Kofa Toure(Hoima Warriors), and a host of several other players. It will be a competitive process, and we'll see who is able to impress over the course of the season.

PostPosted: Tue May 31, 2016 6:52 am
by Banija
Banijan Soccer League finishes with the Hoima Warriors winning the league

Image
Hoima Warriors Captain John Katumba celebrates match winner on final day to give his team the league title

HOIMA- Going into the final day, both Busukuma Athletic Club and the Hoima Warriors were equivalent with each other on points. Of course this is a non-UICA season, but this was the last chance for players across the league to impress for their national teams and clinch a spot on a World Cup Qualifying roster. As for the league, both the capitol side and the Hoima Warriors were fighting heavily between themselves for that league championship. Both teams won a tie in the Globe Cup last year, and both teams wanted to add to the trophy cabinet.

With the Hoima Warriors ahead on goal difference, a win would clinch them the title. Busukuma Athletic Club was doing its part the entire time, as they thoroughly dominated Aissa United FC on their home ground by a score of 5-2. As both games were happening at the same time, the Hoima Warriors were fighting for their lives against the Lwanga Lions. The Lions, who ended up finishing in 15th place, pushed the league champions all the way to the limit. However, in a 3-3 game, an 85th minute goal from John Katumba put the Warriors on top for good, and they were lifting the trophy at the end of the game.

Code: Select all
                              Pld    W   D   L   GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Hoima Warriors              38   28   4   6    94   37  +57    88
 2 Busukuma Athletic Club      38   26  10   2   105   50  +55    88
 3 Jinja City FC               38   25   9   4    83   41  +42    84
 4 Isipongo Flash              38   19   9  10    75   48  +27    66
 5 Askatasuna FC               38   18  11   9    82   52  +30    65
 6 Herzegovina City FC         38   16  13   9    64   55   +9    61
 7 Istria City FC              38   16   9  13    62   57   +5    57
 8 Busembe Timberwolves        38   15  11  12    65   54  +11    56
 9 Bwubanza City SC            38   14  12  12    70   64   +6    54
10 Herzegovina Phoenix         38   15   9  14    58   57   +1    54
11 Bunyoro RSC                 38   14  10  14    64   61   +3    52
12 Kitara AA                   38   15   6  17    58   73  −15    51
13 Umbazi Metropolitan SC      38   11  10  17    60   81  −21    43
14 Rukunbi FC                  38   11   9  18    52   75  −23    42
15 Lwanga Lions                38   12   6  20    52   79  −27    42
16 Mynda SC                    38   10  10  18    57   74  −17    40
17 Aissa United FC             38    8  10  20    48   67  −19    34
18 Lakiska SC                  38    7   9  22    33   65  −32    30
19 Busukuma Force              38    7   7  24    41   73  −32    28
20 Dukuma SC                   38    2   8  28    51  111  −60    14


Askatasuna FC wins RBSA Cup Final in penalty shootout victory over Jinja City FC

Image
Askatasuna FC captain Barnabas Abdimelech celebrates scoring the winning penalty in the RBSA Cup Final

BUSUKUMA- The RBSA Cup was an extremely exciting affair this year. With the expansion of the tournament by 4 teams, expansion club Bwubanza City Soccer Club made a cinderella run in the tournament, starting in the preliminaries and going all the way to the tournament semifinals, where they were slain by Askatasuna FC in Askatasuna. Askatasuna FC also beat the Busukuma Force away from home and Umbazi Metropolitan away from home in their road to the final.

Jinja City FC, last season's league champions, started the tournament with a 3-2 penalty shootout victory over Kitara AA on their home field. They were able to then eliminate both the Busembe Timberwolves and Busukuma Athletic Club away from home to punch their ticket to the final. With the league being so top heavy, as Jinja City FC finished 19 points ahead of Askatasuna even though they were only two places ahead of them, Jinja City FC came into the match as favorites. Askatasuna FC, however, stuck to its game plan and played excellent defense for 120 minutes, forcing penalties.

Devontan striker Noah Lamont Hill missed the first kick of the shootout, while Tokpah Ba missed the third kick of the shootout, as Askatasuna FC did not miss from the spot. The cup champions celebrated wildly, as they were able to bring home the trophy back to Askatasuna. Jinja City FC will be disappointed not to win any kind of silverware this season, but of course that should serve as motivation for next year, when it is indeed a UICA qualifying season.

Round of 16
Mynda SC 0–1 Hoima Warriors
Busukuma Force 3–5 Askatasuna FC
Jinja City FC 0–0 Kitara AA (0–0 AET) (3–2 pen.)
Bunyoro RSC 1–3 Busukuma Athletic Club
Herzegovina City FC 4–0 Lakiska SC
Busembe Timberwolves 2–2 Isipongo Flash (3–2 AET)
Aissa United FC 0–1 Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Bwubanza City SC 1–1 Istria City FC (2–1 AET)


Quarterfinals
Busembe Timberwolves 3–4 Jinja City FC
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 0–2 Askatasuna FC
Bwubanza City SC 2–0 Hoima Warriors
Herzegovina City FC 1–3 Busukuma Athletic Club


Semifinals
Busukuma Athletic Club 1–3 Jinja City FC
Askatasuna FC 3–0 Bwubanza City SC


RBSA Cup Final
Jinja City FC 0–0 Askatasuna FC (0–0 AET) (2–4 pen.)

PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2016 10:30 pm
by Banija
Banijan Lacrosse League

The Banijan Lacrosse League is the professional lacrosse league within Banija. After some serious revamping to take this league nationwide, it is set up within a 2 conference, 16 team setup. One conference is the Moravica conference, which contains all 8 teams within the Moravica region, and the other conference is called the National Conference, as teams from the rest of the country are in that conference. While lacrosse is popular in Moravica, its popularity is lacking across the country, though in an effort with the association to grow the sport nationally they have half of the league outside Moravica.

The regular season is 14 games long, as each team plays each team within its own conference twice. There are no competitive crossover games between the conferences during the regular season. The top two teams in each conference make the playoffs. The semifinals are a best of 3, with the conference champion playing the runner-up of the other conference. The first game is played at the home stadium of the runner-up, while the second & third game(if necessary) is played at the home stadium of the conference champion.

The final is simply one game, hosted by the team in the championship game who has the best record.

Moravica Conference
Istria Thunder
West Istria White Wings
Herzegovina City Kings
Hamilton Jackals
Vidizi Bulls
Kosactus Hammerheads
Taramazna Hawks
Iziarad Wildcats

National Conference
Jinja City Weasals
Busukuma Flyers
Hoima Gators
Luguyala Patriots
Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club
Lakiska Sporting Club
Kitara Athletic Association
Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club

PostPosted: Sat Jul 23, 2016 12:12 pm
by Banija
Banijan Lacrosse League

Banijan Lacrosse League reaches the halfway point of their regular season

Image
A game between archrivals West Istria White Wings and the Istria Thunder

Standings Through Matchday 7

National Conference                      Pld   W   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club 7 6 1 94 69 +25 18
2 Busukuma Flyers 7 5 2 69 66 +3 15
3 Luguyala Patriots 7 4 3 63 73 −10 12
4 Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club 7 3 4 64 61 +3 9
5 Lakiska Sporting Club 7 3 4 83 77 +6 9
6 Hoima Gators 7 3 4 66 67 −1 9
7 Kitara Athletic Association 7 3 4 82 94 −12 9
8 Jinja City Weasals 7 1 6 67 81 −14 3


Moravica Conference                      Pld   W   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Vidizi Bulls 7 6 1 109 75 +34 18
2 Hamilton Jackals 7 4 3 92 87 +5 12
3 Herzegovina City Kings 7 4 3 84 61 +23 12
4 Taramazna Hawks 7 4 3 79 73 +6 12
5 Kosactus Hammerheads 7 4 3 91 96 −5 12
6 Iziarad Wildcats 7 2 5 82 96 −14 6
7 West Istria White Wings 7 2 5 68 97 −29 6
8 Istria Thunder 7 2 5 63 83 −20 6


ISTRIA- Halfway through the regular season, the conference standings are beginning to take shape in the Banijan Lacrosse League. In the Moravica Conference, which is usually seen as the more competitive conference in the league, you have the Vidizi Bulls two games ahead of their competition with only 7 games left to play. They have thoroughly impressed throughout the season, with their only loss being an 11-10 loss to the Kosactus Hammerheads in overtime.

Speaking of the Hammerheads, it is shocking to see how far they have fallen. They started the season 4-0, highlighted with their week 4 overtime victory away from home against the Vidizi Bulls. However, in week 5, things started to unravel for this team. Team captain and the national team captain for the upcoming WLCs Alex Rod broke his leg in the beginning of their week 5 matchup, and everything began to fall apart. It is shocking when one player means that much to the team, but they are 0-3 with his broken leg and 4-0 when he has a healed leg. Now they sit in the middle of the pack, in a 4 way tie for that coveted 2nd playoff spot.

As for the National Conference, the Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club got off to a hot 6-1 start, followed by the Busukuma Flyers who are now 5-2. The Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club, known mostly for their club soccer team, has the resources to invest in their team, and they have done so extremely well. The Flyers, who are just a lacrosse team, are 5-2 and are one game clear in the race for the last playoff spot. Of course, there is still half the season to go, but this is a good position for them to be in.

Ultimately, this should make for an exciting finish to the season. The Vidizi Bulls and Bunyoro RSC have the inside track on playoff spots, but there are plenty of teams on their heels fighting for their playoff lives.

PostPosted: Mon Jul 25, 2016 8:33 am
by Banija
Banijan Lacrosse League

Playoff picture set as the Banijan Lacrosse League finishes its regular season

Image
A scene from a chaotic final day in the Regular season in the National Conference

Final Regular Season Standings
Teams in green have clinched a playoff berth and a berth in the Champions Cup.
Teams in green have clinched a playoff berth and a berth in either the Ultimate Cup or the Champions Cup.
Teams in blue have clinched a berth in the Ultimate Cup.

National Conference                      Pld   W   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club 14 12 2 189 137 +52 36 CONFERENCE CHAMPIONS
2 Busukuma Flyers 14 9 5 144 141 +3 27 CONFERENCE RUNNER-UPS
3 Luguyala Patriots 14 8 6 130 143 −13 24 AUTOMATIC ULTIMATE CUP BERTH

4 Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club 14 7 7 160 145 +15 21
5 Hoima Gators 14 7 7 149 143 +6 21
6 Lakiska Sporting Club 14 6 8 152 149 +3 18
7 Kitara Athletic Association 14 5 9 159 173 −14 15
8 Jinja City Weasals 14 2 12 132 184 −52 6


Moravica Conference                      Pld   W   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Vidizi Bulls 14 11 3 195 147 +48 33 CONFERENCE CHAMPIONS
2 Herzegovina City Kings 14 10 4 168 126 +42 30 CONFERENCE RUNNER-UPS

3 Hamilton Jackals 14 7 7 164 164 0 21
4 Kosactus Hammerheads 14 6 8 158 176 −18 18
5 West Istria White Wings 14 6 8 145 172 −27 18
6 Taramazna Hawks 14 6 8 147 166 −19 18
7 Iziarad Wildcats 14 5 9 179 196 −17 15
8 Istria Thunder 14 5 9 149 158 −9 15


Semifinal Matchups (Best of 3)
SF #1: Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club vs. Herzegovina City Kings
SF #2: Vidizi Bulls vs. Busukuma Flyers

BUSUKUMA- Entering the final day of the regular season, the playoff picture had largely been set. The Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club has clearly established itself as the team to beat, even though they are in what many people consider to be the weaker conference, as they had clinched the conference championship a few weeks ago and the #1 overall seed in the playoffs. As the best regular season team, they've also clinched one of Banija's two spots in the inaugural international lacrosse champions cup, a Champions Cup style tournament for club lacrosse teams.

The other, of course, will go the champion of the league. While there is now a reward for having the best regular season record, there is no trophy. They are here not just to qualify for a different tournament, but they are here to win the league, and the way this season has gone for them, they are definitely more than capable of winning the league. They are a team that has only lost twice this entire season, and they seemed primed for a playoff run.

With international cup qualification, the Lacrosse Association has already decided how they will allocate the spots. With 5 international spots, 2 in the Champions Cup and then 3 more in the Ultimate Cup, they had some decisions to make for how to allocate their spots among 16 teams. While keeping the structure in place, they've decided to have one Champions Cup spot go to the team with the best regular season record, and the other go to the Champion of the Banijan Lacrosse League. If those two teams are the same, then the 2nd Champions Cup spot will go to the loser of the championship game.

2 of the 3 Ultimate Cup spots will go to the two playoff teams who didn't earn a spot in the Champions Cup, and the 3rd will go to the non-playoff team with the best record. If there are two teams tied for that, there will be a one game playoff for that final spot. If there are 3 or more teams tied, then tiebreakers will be used to whittle down to 2, and then a one game playoff will be played. This season a one game playoff isn't necessary, as the Luguyala Patriots, at 8-6, have the best record out of any non-playoff team and are the first Banijan team to punch their ticket to the Ultimate Cup.

Of course, we look forward to some pretty entertaining matches in these semifinals, as the stakes have been raised for everybody involved on both sides, as the chance to compete for an international club championship is also at stake.

PostPosted: Tue Jul 26, 2016 5:15 am
by Banija
Banijan Lacrosse League

All-Moravica final as the Vidizi Bulls and the Herzegovina City Kings advance from semifinal rounds

Image
A Herzegovina Kings player celebrates a goal in game 3

Semifinal 1 Results (Vidizi Bulls win series 2-0)
Vidizi Bulls 20–4 Busukuma Flyers
Busukuma Flyers 9–9 Vidizi Bulls (11–12 OT)


Semifinal 2 Results (Herzegovina City Kings win series 2-1)
Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club 15–9 Herzegovina City Kings
Herzegovina City Kings 18–9 Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club
Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club 9–12 Herzegovina City Kings


HERZEGOVINA CITY- The Moravica conference is generally regarded as the stronger conference out of the two conferences. Simply because of their economic resources and population strength, but mostly because of the popularity of their sport in that region. Lacrosse is considered a growing niche sport in many parts of this country, but in Moravica, lacrosse is as popular as ever. That is why one region of this country has their own conference, while the rest of the country has another. Support for lacrosse is large in Moravica, and therefore, their teams are usually better, as it is easier to recruit in your own backyard.

That adage rung as true as ever. Nobody was shocked, of course, when the Vidizi Bulls swept the Busukuma Flyers, 2-0. It was clear who the better team was this entire time in that series. The Bulls came storming out of the gates, winning game 1 by a stunning score of 20-4. As the first game of the entire postseason, we don't think that anybody really saw that kind of beat down coming. While The Busukuma Flyers regrouped and left it all on the field in game 2, it was clear that the Bulls were too much for them, and a late game-winner in overtime punched the Bulls ticket to the Final.

The Herzegovina City Kings took a different path to the final. The Kings lost game 1 at the Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club. When they came back to Herzegovina City, they were able to regroup and actually win game 2, to force a do-or-die game 3 away from home. Against the regular season's best side, the Kings were able to win game 3 away from home, and set up a Final in Vidizi, which is a city just on the outskirts of Herzegovina City itself. We'll see who wins the big game, who can become Banija's lacrosse champion and, just as importantly, who can clinch the final Champions Cup spot.

Herzegovina City Kings win Banijan lacrosse championship on the road

Image
Kings celebrate immediately after the final whistle

Final
Vidizi Bulls 12–16 Herzegovina City Kings


VIDIZI- The Herzegovina City Kings have been crowned the champions of the Banijan Lacrosse League after their stunning 16-12 victory over the Vidizi Bulls in the Final. The Bulls, who were the Moravica conference champions and therefore had earned the right to play this game on their home field, were the favorites entering this matchup. Of course, with all the momentum that the Kings had from having to come back from a game down to win their series against the regular season's best team, Bunyoro RSC, anything was possible, and dreams came true today.

Of course, this has implications internationally as well. This means that, as virtue of being Banija's champion, the Herzegovina City Kings have clinched Banija's 2nd spot in the Champions Cup. And with the end of the postseason, Banija's three Ultimate Cup teams have been discovered- the Vidizi Bulls, the Busukuma Flyers, both courtesy of their playoff berths, and the Luguyala Patriots, as having the best record out of any non-playoff team. We here at this magazine give a massive congratulations to the Kings on achieving their goals, and best of luck to all the teams next season!

PostPosted: Thu Jul 28, 2016 7:59 am
by Banija
The Banijan Soccer League - Season 3

Image


The Royal Banijan Soccer Association is proud to present the Banijan Soccer League to the sporting world. This is the top division of soccer in Banija, competing with gridiron football to be the nation's most popular sport. The Banijan Soccer League consists of 20 teams, the same 20 franchises from last year, that will compete in two different competitions. They compete in the Banijan Soccer League, which is a double round-robin league-style competition. The other major competition that BSL teams compete in is the RBSA Cup, which is a single-elimination knockout tournament.

Currently there is no system of promotion/relegation, as this is the only nationwide fully professional soccer league in the nation. The format followed for league play is a double round-robin. The format followed for the RBSA Cup is each round the opponents are randomly drawn against each other, with one side randomly being picked as the home side. There must be a winner in each match, which means extra time & penalties are allowed(there are no draws or replays in the RBSA Cup). The final is one match located at the Stadium of the Restoration in the national capitol of Busukuma. Breaks are given midseason to allow for the play of the RBSA Cup, and the RBSA Cup final is always held one week after the Final Day at the Stadium of the Restoration in Istria. To start the beginning of a new season, a kickoff match is played between the RBSA Cup winners and the BSL winner(or, if they are the same, the 2nd place team of the BSL) for the Kabaka's Cup, which is the Banijan Supercup and the match is always attended by the reigning Kabaka, who personally awards the trophy to the winning team.

The format for the RBSA Cup this season shall be different with the addition of 4 sides to the Banijan Soccer League. In edition to the normal rounds(Round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinal, and Final) there shall be a Preliminary Round for the RBSA Cup. For this season alone, it shall consist of the bottom 4 placed teams in the league last season, all hosting one of the four expansion franchises. The winners shall advance to the Round of 16. For ensuing seasons, the preliminary round will consist of a team in the bottom 4 of the league playing away to a team in the next 4(placed 13th through 16th). The schedule for the RBSA Cup shall be the following:

Preliminary Round - After Week 8
Round of 16 - After Week 16
Quarterfinals - After Week 24
Semifinals - After Week 32
RBSA Cup FInal - One week after the conclusion of the Banijan Soccer League.

Teams in the BSL- Underlined players are Banijan internationals. Nationality is listed if they are not Banijan.
1. Herzegovina City Football Club. HZCFC. Location(city, region): Herzegovina City, Moravica. Colors: Blue & Gold.
(Image)
Star Field, Capacity of 40,000.


2. Jinja City Football Club. JCFC. Location: Jinja City, Hangaza. Colors: Green & White.
(Image)
Kizza IX Stadium, Capacity of 29,000.


3. Busukuma Athletic Club. BAC. Location: Busukuma, National Capitol Region. Colors: Red & White.
(Image)
Johnson Field, Capacity of 37,000.


4. Hoima Warriors. HOI. Location: Hoima, Ankole. Colors: Red & Silver.
(Image)
PG Arena, Capacity of 44,500.

DEFENDING LEAGUE CHAMPIONS.

5. Mynda Soccer Club. MSC. Location: Mynda, Aksum. Colors: Forest Green.
(Image)
Kawesa Stadium. Capacity of 41,000.


6. Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club. UMSC. VFC. Location: Umbazi, Buganda. Colors: Pink.
(Image)
Buganda Regional Stadium, Capacity of 29,000.


7. Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club. BRSC. Location: Dodomo, Bunyoro. Colors: Blue.
(Image)
Dodomo City Stadium, Capacity of 33,000.


8. The Lwanga Lions. LLSC. Location: Lwanga, Buganda. Colors: Orange.
(Image)
Lwanga City Arena, Capacity of 26,500.


9. Askatasuna Football Club. AFC. Location: Askatasuna, Aksum. Colors: Green & White.
(Image)
St. Sava Park, Capacity of 37,500.

DEFENDING RBSA CUP CHAMPIONS

10. Kitara Athletic Association. KAA. Location: Sisonke, Kitara. Colors: Blue & white.
(Image)
Sisonke City Park, Capacity of 31,000.


11. Istria City Football Club. RFC. Location: Downtown Istria, Moravica. (Neighborhood in the center of Istria in the National Capitol Region). Colors: Orange & Black.
Image
Kabonero III Field, Capacity of 48,000.


12. Aissa United Football Club. AUFC. Location: Aissa, Hangaza. Colors: Blue & white.
(Image)
Hangaza Unified Stadium, Capacity of 55,000.


13. Isipongo Flash. IF. Location: Isipongo, Buganda. Colors: Black & white.
(Image)
Isipongo City Field. Capacity of 27,000.


14. Dukuma Sporting Club. DSC. Location: Dukuma, Busoga. Colors: Purple & white.
(Image)
Orange Field, capacity of 17,000.


15. Rukunbi Football Club. RFC. Location: Istria, Moravica. Located in Western Istria, the largest of the 5 districts of Istria with 38% of the city's population and generally considered to be culturally distinct from the rest of the city. Colors: Light Green & White.
(Image)
Eastern Stadium. Capacity of 37,000.


16. Lakiska Sporting Club. LSC. Location: Lakiska, Busoga. Colors: Red & black.
(Image)
Lakiska City Field. Capacity of 31,000.


17. Busukuma Force. BKF. Location: Busukuma, National Capitol Region. Colors: Sky Blue
Image
Mugisha III Memorial Stadium, capacity of 49,000


18. Herzegovina Phoenix. Location: Vidizi, Moravica(suburb of Herzegovina City). Colors: Purple.
Image
Phoenix Stadium. Capacity of 25,000.


19. Busembe Timberwolves. BT. Location: Busembe, Kitara. Colors: Gray, Black, and White.
Image
The Wolf's Den. Capacity of 44,000.


20. Bwubanza City Soccer Club. BCSC. Location: Bwubanza, Bunyoro. Colors: Blue
Image
Bwubanza City Park, capacity of 40,000.


National Stadium
The Stadium of the Restoration
(Image)
The National Stadium for a King's Cup final. Location: Busukuma. Capacity: 69,000.

Major ivalries
Istria City Derby between Istria City FC and Rukunbi FC as they are both located on opposite sides of Banija's largest city.
Battle for Hangaza's Soul between Jinja City FC and Aissa United Football Club.
Battle of the Princes between Isipongo Flash & the Lwanga Lions(as both teams are in cities named after former Princes of the Royal Family).
The Capitol City Derby between Busukuma Athletic Club and the newly formed Busukuma Force.

A 'final day' format is there for the last week of the regular season, with all games kicking off at the same time.

PostPosted: Thu Jul 28, 2016 8:49 am
by Banija
The Banijan Soccer League - Season 3 Rosters

Image


Teams in the BSL-
Underlined players are Banijan internationals.
Nationality is listed if they are not Banijan.
Italicized players are internationals for a foreign country.
1. Herzegovina City Football Club.
Manager: Kolt Freegan. Age 47; 7th year at club.
Formation: 4-3-1-2
GK #1 Janko Jawara. Age 34.
LB #5 Alaji Kabbah. Age 34. Captain.
LCB #2 Wasa Jawo. Age 26.
RCB #4 Zinnah Atieno. Age 23.
RB #19 Massala Chahine. Age 30.
LM #7 Nikolay Menshikov. Age 23(Arioslavia).
CM #8 Boimah Ba. Age 30.
RM #17 Kofa Bah. Age 31.
CAM #10 Jackson Oglobelo. Age 20(Abaja)
LS #6 Ahmed Chahine. Age 30.
RS #9 Guillermo Madruga. Age 24(Amazonesta).

2. Jinja City Football Club.
Manager: Alexander Bumba. Age 43, 3rd year at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Massala Ballo. Age 36.
LB # 2 Fyodor Khalturin. Age 22(Arioslavia).
CB #15 Vincent Wilson.captain. Age 35. Former Banijan international center back.
CB #13 Simon Wanjala. Age 34. Former Banijan international center back.
RB #18 Yuri Poltoranin. Age 20(Arioslavia).
LM #14 Elias Abate. Age 27.
CM #24 Daniel Asres. Age 26.
CM #10 Tokpah Ba. Age 30.
RM #23 Sia Fall. Age 20.
RS #9 Omar Falcone. Age 28(Amazonesta).
LS #11 Noah Lamont Hill. Age 28(Devonta).

3. Busukuma Athletic Club.
Manager: Sarh Sarr. Age 63; 14th year at club.
Formation: 3-4-3
GK #1. Ivan Ignatiev. Age 21(Arioslavia).
RB #2 Flomo Fall. Age 32.
CB #15 Gereh Kinteh. Age 27.
LB #6 Marbue Okeke. Age 34. Captain.
LM #8 Ahmad Abdullah. Age 18(Abaja)
CDM #18 Lamie Hailemariam. Age 31.
CAM #21 Toyuwa Sall. Age 30.
RM #8 Ansu Cisse. Age 23.
LW #11 Zwana Demoz. Age 29.
ST #9 Saah Desta. Age 34.
RW #17 Melaku Afeworki. Age 29.

4. Hoima Warriors.
Manager: Gabriel Vincent. Age 54, 6th year at club.
Formation: 3-5-2.
GK #1 Abu Turay. Age 42.
LB #5 Idowu Kwandani. Age 29.
CB #4 Jio Eyawanifamni. Age 24(Abaja)
RB #19 Kofa Toure. Age 28.
LM #13 Ansu Gebrezghi. Age 30.
CM #14 Samba Ndaw. 21
CM #22 Flomo Osei. Age 31.
RM #6 John Katumba. Captain. Age 33.
CAM #10 Marbue Owusu. Age 21.
LS #7 Andrey Soltykov. Age 20(Arioslavia).
RS #11 Mamo Berehunu. Age 30.

5. Mynda Soccer Club.
Manager: Jose Gonzalez(Amazonesta). Age 61, 1st year at the club.
Starters: 4-4-2
GK #1 Zinnah Ndiaye. Age 26.
RB #2 Lamie Yeboah. Age 34.
CB #4 Samson Gashi. Age 26.
CB #5 Saa Mensah. Age 27. Twin brother of Blama Mensah.
LB #3 Blama Mensah. Age 27. Twin brother of Saa Mensah.
RM #17 Josiah Buba. Age 35. Captain.
CM #15 Trokon Sesay. Age 26.
CM #12 Miguel Freitas. Age 30(Amazonesta).
LM #8 Kwame Gebremichael. Age 27.
LS #11 Sarh Sane. Age 29.
RS #9 Meherka Edris. Age 29.

6. Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club.
Manager: Yafet Kahsai. Age 50, 2nd year at club.
Starters: 5-3-2 w/ sweeper
GK #1 Assefa Berhane. Age 23.
RB #2 Siafa Diop. Age 24.
CB #5 Mata Yeboah. Age 33.
SW #3 Zwana Owusu. Captain. Age 31.
CB #4 Tehpoe Bah. Age 32.
LB #12 Saa Osei. Age 33.
LM #25 Asa Sylla. Age 23.
CM #31 John Tewedros. Age 30.
RM #17 Ervin Jon-Mikel. Age 28(Abaja)
LS #11 Toyuwa Gebremichael. Age 31.
RS #7 Vicente Bernardes. Age 29(Amazonesta).

7. Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club.
Manager: Iphicrates Bella, Age 45, 2nd year at club.
Starters: 3-3-3-1.
GK #1 Mohammed Al-Lasar(Huda). Age 36.
RB #2 Tamandani Arendse. Age 34. Older brother of teammate Chinasa Arendse.
CB #3 Chikondi Tokodoni. Age 31.
LB #14 Eniola Afolayan. Captain. Age 34.
CDM #15 Chinasa Arendse. Age 30. Younger brother of teammate Tamandani Arendse.
RCM #12 Ihejirika Akachi. Age 29.
LCM #11 Jumaane Folami. Age 28.
RW #7 Kobina Irsay. Age 29.
CAM #10 Nathaniel Yisake. Age 30.
LW #8 Thoko Kgosi. Age 28.
ST #9 Bruno Rodrigues. Age 28(Amazonesta).

8. The Lwanga Lions.
Manager: Stephano Lazos Jr. Age 51, 2nd year at club(son of the previous manager).
Starters: 4-2-1-3
GK #1 Leandro Garcia. Age 30(Amazonesta). Captain.
RB #2 Beheilu Dessalegne. Age 29.
CB #4 Assefa Roni. Age 30.
CB #5 Negus Kebede. Age 23.
LB #6 Kirubel Ayele. Age 29.
RCM #20 Basant Servaia. Age 22.
LCM #25 Assi Finhas. Age 28.
CAM #10 Natnael Dagmawi. Age 27.
LW #7 Yemane Bessufekad. Age 29.
ST #9 Gizaw Mignote. Age 25.
RW #11 Ebissa Wolitigna. Age 30.

9. Askatasuna Football Club.
Manager: Protesilaus Soter. Age 67, 8th year at the club.
Starters: 4-4-2
GK #1 Hakim Gukssa. Age 22.
RB #2 Melku Atikem. Age 28.
CB #5 Eba Zeru. Age 31.
CB #4 Barnabas Abdimelech. Captain. Age 32.
LB #18 Malek Abdullah(Huda). Age 28.
LM #17 Diego Furtado. Age 27(Amazonesta).
CM # 13 Michael Negasso. Age 28.
CM #15 Alem Bekira. Age 28.
RM #12 Chibuzo Afolayan. Age 24.
RS #7 Alulawe Ju. Age 27(Abaja)
LS #11 Rada Ezera. Age 22.

10. Kitara Athletic Association.
Manager: Flip Kollias. Age 58, 4th year at club.
Starters: 3-3-1-3
GK #1 Aman Werkneh. Age 36.
RB #2 Enzo Capistran. Age 28(Amazonesta).
CB #15 Melech Gersem. Age 26.
LB #19 Gregory Hatzis. Age 34.
LM #11 Abraham Akampurira. Age 32.
CDM #14 Meherka Bitwoded. Captain. Age 33.
RM #8 Mekbib Asmelash. Age 28.
CAM #10 Francis Getachew. Age 30.
LW #7 Habtamu Girma. Age 33.
ST #9 Zewedu Alemayehu. Age 31.
RW #8 Taye Negasso. Age 29.

11. Istria City Football Club.
Manager: Erechtheus Condos. Age 67, 4th year at club.
Starters: 4-2-3-1
GK #1 Gabriel Negus. Age 31.
RB #2 Berihu Abeselome. Age 21.
CB #5 Maximiliane Purcell(Nephara). Age 21.
CB #4 Noah Geteye. Age 22.
LB #18 Abraham Godefai. Age 20.
CDM #19 Robel Abeselome. Age 27.
CDM #15 Bullo Afework. Age 29.
LM #7 Abram Senay. Age 30.
CAM #10 Girma Asmelash. Age 27.
RM #11 Addis Anwar. Age 26.
ST #9 Assefa Yitebarke. Age 21.

12. Aissa United Football Club.
Manager: Gregory Banis, Age 52. 3rd year at club.
Starters: 5-4-1
GK #1 Yonas Tolla. Age 33.
RWB #2 Bona Demessie. Age 29.
RCB #15 Gathu Wamiti. Age 25.
CB #15 Marcelo Braga. Age 25(Amazonesta).
LCB #17 Christopher Tadesse. Age 30.
LB #7 Travis Cherenebereck. Age 22.
RM #18 Amde Melos. Age 26.
CM #8 Amare Degu. Age 30.
CM #10 Oromo Berhanu. Age 31.
LM #23 Gabriel Teoflyos. Age 30.
ST #9 Chibuzo Lokodo. Captain.Age 28.

13. Isipongo Flash.
Manager: Vasyitso Maris. Age 69, 9th year at club.
Starters: 4-3-2-1
GK #1 Alan Namara. Age 36.
RB #2 Abesalom Anwar. Age 31.
CB #5 Malo Izijurim. Age 25(Abaja)
CB #4 Alem Bessufekad. Age 33.
LB #14 Raphael Wendimu. Age 25.
LM #7 Youssef Negasi(Huda). Age 28.
CM #18 Bernardo Nuno. Age 27(Amazonesta).
RM #17 Elias Bayou. Age 29.
RCAM #20 Lebna Ephram. Age 27.
LCAM #10 Kezekia Mulogo. captain. Age 35.
ST #9 Akena Kenyatta. Age 31.

14. Dukuma Sporting Club.
Manager: Prophyrios Tantalo. Age 51, 2nd year at club.
Starters: 4-4-2 diamond.
GK #16 Delbin Kasekende. Age 28.
RB #14 Caio Batista. Age 26(Amazonesta).
CB #5 Gedeyon Debebe. Age 29.
CB #6 Amde Gersem. Age 27.
LB #23 Baslios Fisseha. Age 26.
CDM #21 Yonas Benti. Captain. Age 35
LM #7 Kinuthia Warari. Age 26.
RM #18 Jacob Mekonnen. Age 34.
CAM #10 Andre Mesay. Age 26.
RS #19 Girum Mikias. Age 24.
LS #9 Belai Kebede. Age 28.

15. Rukunbi Football Club.
Manager: Teague Spanos. Age 58, 6th year at club.
Starters: 4-3-3
GK #1 Dawit Berhanu. Age 34.
RB #2 Dembo Jawara. Captain.Age 30.
CB #5 Berhane Abdikarim. Age 30. (Twin brother of Henoke Abdikarim).
CB #3 Henoke Abdikarim. Age 30. (Twin brother of Berhane Abdikarim).
LB #12 Anwar Elshaday. Age 28.
LM #13 Menkir Teka. Age 29.
CM #14 Chase Page. Age 31(Nephara). Captain.
RM #6 Kahu Meherka. Age 29.
LW #11 Amir Bezuayehu. Age 32.
ST #9 Amanuel Bsrat. Age 22.
RW #24 Robel Beselot. Age 23.

16. Lakiska Sporting Club.
Manager: Ambros Macris. Age 62, 5th year at club.
Starters: 4-5-1
GK #1 Zachariah Elmer. Age 25(Nephara).
RB #2 Noah Abdimelech. Age 29.
CB #5 Cássio Cardoso. Age 26(Amazonesta).
CB #4 Menas Gebrekristos. Captain. Age 31.
LB #19 Zeru Beryihun. Age 21.
LM #7 Markos Dalu. Age 25.
CM #15 Joseph Zekulu. Age 32.
CDM #18 Elijah Riga. Age 28.
CM #14 Nathan Brehanu. Age 30.
RM #8 Ezekiel Wakayo. Age 27.
ST #9 Michael Kidane. Age 33.

17. Busukuma Force.
Manager: Tibebu Eyoel. 65 years old. 2nd year at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Meles Asmerom. Age 31.
RB #13 Zekulu Bullo. Age 30.
CB #5 Jack Fayne. Age 29(Nephara).
CB #4 Tesheme Yalaxow. Age 30.
LB #14 Nahom Abimelech. Age 34.
RM #17 Abdul Ramaas. Age 30.
CM #10 Addis Medr. Age 25.
LCM #15 Yideg Negasi. Age 33.
LM #8 Ansu Araya. Age 30.
RS #11 Meba Keya. Age 31.
LS #9 Abdella Markos. Age 32.

18. Herzegovina Phoenix.
Manager: Motuma Essayas. Age 62. 2nd year at club.
Formation: 4-3-3(defensive)
GK #1 Gersem Markos. Age 29.
RB #2 Vastyn Tredillick. Age 22(Ceni).
CB #3 Yafet Fekadu. Age 31. Captain.
CB #5 Eba Feleke. Age 27.
LB #4 Aaron Eyob. Age 29.
RDM #15 Israel Dejene. Age 30.
LDM #14 Fasika Boru. Age 29.
CM #8 Karl Sturrock. Age 35(Nephara).
LW #7 Baslios Temesgen. Age 24.
ST #9 Chase Pershing. Age 31(Brenecia).
RW #12 Kayin Meseret. Age 28.

19. Busembe Timberwolves.
Manager: Zemenfes Nataye. Age 66. 2nd year at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Neway Kidane. Age 34.
RB #2 Berihu Temesgen. Age 21.
CB #4 Mebreatu Abay. Age 30.
CB #5 Abate Brehanu. Age 22.
LB #3 Paco Orona. Age 33(Amazonesta). Captain.
RM #7 Melaku Tesfa. Age 26.
CM #19 Julio Leal. Age 27(Amazonesta).
CM #12 Kebede Henoke. Age 30.
LM #8 Ruphael Getachew. Age 31.
RS #11 Brendon Ediomgi. Age 31(Abaja)
LS #9 Idi Ndour. Age 30.

20. Bwubanza City Soccer Club.
Manager: Tessema Negasi. Age 61. 2nd year at club.
Formation: 3-1-3-3
GK #1 Dawit Iskinder. Age 36.
RB #14 Gedarm Tewodros. Age 31.
CB #4 David Bzuayehu. Age 29.
LB #18 Mebrete Essayas. Age 31.
CDM #21 Awash Menasse. Age 30.
RM #17 Mekdem Mesfin. Age 29.
CM #18 Amare Iskinder. Age 29.
LM #12 Basliel Berhanu. Age 30.
RW #7 Michael Hagos. Age 34.
ST #9 Manasses Teshome. Age 23.
LW #11 Blanco Rivero. Age 32(Amazonesta).[/quote]

PostPosted: Mon Nov 13, 2017 9:36 pm
by Banija
Banijan Lacrosse League

Banijan domestic lacrosse season finishes up with Bunyoro RSC as league champions

Image
Bunyoro RSC celebrate their first league title

Final Regular Season Standings
Teams in green have the league's best regular season record and a spot in the Champions Cup.
Teams in green have clinched a playoff berth and a berth in either the Ultimate Cup or the Champions Cup.
Teams in blue have clinched a berth in the Ultimate Cup.

National Conference                     Pld    W   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Busukuma Flyers 14 12 2 205 108 +97 36 CONFERENCE CHAMPIONS
2 Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club 14 11 3 206 128 +78 33 CONFERENCE RUNNER-UPS

3 Luguyala Patriots 14 8 6 180 135 +45 24
4 Jinja City Weasals 28 6 18 282 435 −153 22
5 Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club 14 6 8 147 173 −26 18
6 Hoima Gators 14 6 8 143 169 −26 18
7 Kitara Athletic Association 14 5 9 145 160 −15 15


Moravica  Conference                    Pld    W   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Herzegovina City Kings 14 13 1 212 107 +105 39 CONFERENCE CHAMPIONS
2 Istria Thunder 14 9 5 158 182 −24 27 CONFERENCE RUNNER-UPS

3 Iziarad Wildcats 14 8 6 159 146 +13 24
4 Vidizi Bulls 14 8 6 159 123 +36 24
5 Hamilton Jackals 14 6 8 126 131 −5 18
6 West Istria White Wings 14 4 10 130 170 −40 12
7 Taramazna Hawks 14 4 10 168 209 −41 12
8 Kosactus Hammerheads 14 4 10 140 184 −44 12


Playoff Format
The top two teams in each conference make the playoffs. The Moravica conference is the league's 8 teams from the Moravica Region, and the National Conference are the league's 8 teams from the rest of the country. The Moravica conference champion plays the National runner-up in one semifinal,and the National conference champion plays the Moravica runner-up in the other semifinal. The winners play in the final at the home stadium of the team who finished the regular season with more points.

Semifinal Matchups (Best of 3)
SF #1: Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club vs. Herzegovina City Kings
SF #2: Istria Thunder vs. Busukuma Flyers

Semifinal 1 Results (Bunyoro RSC win series 2-1)
Semifinal 1
Herzegovina City Kings 7–10 Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club
Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club 6–12 Herzegovina City Kings
Herzegovina City Kings 4–15 Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club


Semifinal 2 Results (Busukuma Flyers win series 2-1)
Semifinal 2
Game 1- Busukuma Flyers 18–5 Istria Thunder
Istria Thunder 11–9 Busukuma Flyers
Busukuma Flyers 12–3 Istria Thunder


Banijan Lacrosse League Title Game
Busukuma Flyers 5–11 Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club


Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club are the Banijan Lacrosse League Champions.


BUSUKUMA- Last season, we had an All-Moravica final between the Herzegovina City Kings and the Vdizi Bulls, where the Kings defeated the Bulls to bring home the title. This season, instead of an All-Moravica final, the sport has truly shown that it has gone national in with an All-National final, as the conference won both of their semifinal games, and once again, took the league's 3rd guaranteed spot in the Ultimate Cup.

Banijan interest in the game is at an all-time high. While they missed the previous World Lacrosse Championships, the nation has been consistently punching above its weight in this great sport. While they got knocked out early in the knockout stages of their last World Lacrosse Championships, they have won two tournaments that have made them confident of their abilities to succeed on home soil. First, of course, was their victory at the Champions Challenge Cup. And next, of course, was their victory in the inaugural IDLO Champions Cup, where the final was between the Herzegovina City Kings and Bunyoro RSC.

Bunyoro RSC had qualified for the Champions Cup on the basis of having the best regular season record last season in the Banijan Lacrosse League, though they lost to Herzegovina City in the BLL semifinals. In the case of Herzegovina City, last season they won the domestic championship, winning the final at the home stadium of the Bulls. They also reached the Champions Cup Final to play Bunyoro RSC, though they fell in that game.

Herzegovina City responded to their domestic victory and international final loss by rampaging through the regular season, compiling a stunning 13-1 record through 14 games. They finished 4 games ahead of their closest rival in the conference, as the Istria Thunder compiled 9 wins on their way to their first playoff berth. The defending IDLO Champions Cup and Challengers Cup champion Bunyoro RSC, finished in a playoff spot but did not win their conference, giving them a semifinal matchup with Herzegovina City for the 2nd straight year, which is quickly becoming the hottest rivalry in Banijan lacrosse.

Their rivalry, even though the two teams don't even meet in the regular season, reached an epic height this time around. Herzegovina wanted their revenge for their Champions Cup Final loss, and Bunyoro RSC wanted revenge for last year's semifinal loss. The away team won all three games in this best of 3, including two dominating Bunyoro RSC performances.

They carried that momentum to the Final in our nation's capitol, as they dominated in Busukuma to hoist the trophy. Which means, as of right now, Bunyoro RSC are the holders of the IDLO Champions Cup, the IDLO Challenger's Cup, and the Banijan Lacrosse League. They have to be considered the best club in the world. Banija's two entrants into the Champions Cup will be Bunyoro RSC, who will enter by virtue of being league Champions, and Herzegovina City, who will enter by virtue of having the league's best regular season record.

Of course, this all takes place with the backdrop of the World Lacrosse Championships coming to Banija for the first time. Every game of this tournament will be played on Banijan soil- and the pressure will be on the hosts to deliver the trophy. This season meant a lot. For players, it was a chance to audition to be on the team. For the teams themselves, it was a chance to showcase their venues. They will use between 6 and 8 venues, and where high lacrosse interest is shown, so cameras can shows people in seats. It will be a celebration of everything lacrosse in Banija, and the pressure will be high to please these demanding fans.

Banija (BNJ) Qualifiers
Champions Cup: Herzegovina City Kings, Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club
Ultimate Cup: Istria Thunder, Busukuma Flyers, Luguyala Patriots

PostPosted: Tue Nov 14, 2017 5:09 pm
by Banija
The Banijan Soccer League - Season 3

Image


Herzegovina City FC win the league for the first time as they will enter into the Champions Cup

FInal League Standings
Banijan Soccer League          Pld   W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Herzegovina City FC 38 22 11 5 67 40 +27 77 - QUALIFIED FOR CHAMPIONS CUP/AO CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
2 Jinja City FC 38 19 10 9 87 61 +26 67 QUALIFIED FOR GLOBE CUP
3 Istria City FC 38 17 14 7 66 44 +22 65 QUALIFIED FOR GLOBE CUP
4 Busukuma Athletic Club 38 17 13 8 76 56 +20 64 QUALIFIED FOR GLOBE CUP

5 Askatasuna FC 38 19 7 12 64 53 +11 64
6 Isipongo Flash 38 18 8 12 62 46 +16 62
7 Kitara AA 38 16 11 11 68 61 +7 59
8 Hoima Warriors 38 16 9 13 59 48 +11 57
9 Bwubanza City SC 38 16 9 13 59 49 +10 57
10 Mynda SC 38 14 14 10 70 64 +6 56
11 Busembe Timberwolves 38 15 7 16 73 68 +5 52
12 Bunyoro RSC 38 14 10 14 62 60 +2 52
13 Busukuma Force 38 15 7 16 66 71 −5 52
14 Aissa United FC 38 11 11 16 57 71 −14 44
15 Rukunbi FC 38 10 11 17 48 67 −19 41
16 Herzegovina Phoenix 38 10 9 19 46 57 −11 39
17 Lakiska SC 38 9 7 22 44 69 −25 34
18 Dukuma SC 38 9 7 22 56 95 −39 34
19 Umbazi Metropolitan SC 38 7 12 19 51 72 −21 33
20 Lwanga Lions 38 8 9 21 43 72 −29 33


Kabaka's Cup
Askatasuna FC 1–3 Hoima Warriors


Herzegovina City FC have won the Banijan Soccer League for the first time, with Jinja City FC finishing second and Istria City FC finishing 3rd. This will mark the first time that htey have won the league, and giving the young league it's 3rd different champion in just as many seasons. Led by Arisolavian winger Nikolay Menshikov and center back Wasa Jawo, this team allowed a league low 40 goals across the season. They were a dominant force from day 1, as they led the league with 22 victories, and had only 5 losses on the season. They will enter the Champions Cup for the first time. This will mark Banija's return to UICA competition, and they will look to do better than last time, when all three Globe Cup entrants and their only Champions Cup entrant all fell in the first round.

Herzegovina City FC will be the first Banijan side to enter an Atlantian Ocenia competition, as they will be the Banijan Soccer League's sole representative in the Atlantian Oceania Champions League. With their participation in two separate international club competitions, their fans will hope that their owners will invest some of the windfall from those competitions into improving the squad, as they know traditional heavyweights Jinja City FC and the Hoima Warriors will be back with a vengeance.

The Kabaka's Cup is the Banijan supercup between the winners of the league in Season 2, and the winner of the RBSA Cup in season 2. It is played a week before the season starts at the Stadium of the Restoration. The season 2 league winners won the supercup, with a 3-1 victory over RBSA Cup winners Askatasuna FC.

Herzegovina Phoenix go on stunning run and defeat the Hoima Warriors 4-2 in the Final to win the RBSA Cup

RBSA Cup- Preliminary Round
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 3–2 Dukuma SC
Rukunbi FC 2–3 Busukuma Force
Lwanga Lions 2–3 Lakiska SC
Mynda SC 1–2 Aissa United FC


RBSA Cup- First Round
Lakiska SC 0–2 Hoima Warriors
Busukuma Force 0–3 Jinja City FC
Busukuma Athletic Club 1–3 Herzegovina Phoenix
Bunyoro RSC 1–2 Herzegovina City FC
Askatasuna FC 2–3 Kitara AA
Busembe Timberwolves 2–3 Isipongo Flash
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 2–0 Aissa United FC
Bwubanza City SC 3–2 Istria City FC


RBSA Cup- Quarterfinals
Isipongo Flash 1–1 Herzegovina Phoenix (1–2 AET)
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 2–1 Jinja City FC
Bwubanza City SC 2–3 Hoima Warriors
Kitara AA 1–0 Herzegovina City FC


RBSA Cup- Semifinals
Kitara AA 0–0 Herzegovina Phoenix (1–2 AET)
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 0–1 Hoima Warriors


RBSA Cup- Final
Herzegovina Phoenix 4–2 Hoima Warriors


BUSUKUMA- The RBSA Cup was an entertaining competition yet again, as upstart Herzegovina Phoenix made a brilliant cup run, and defeated Banijan club giants the Hoima Warriors by a score of 4-2 in the Cup Final. While they only finished 16th in league play, which means they'll have to enter the tournament at the preliminary round next year, they had a stellar cup run. Three straight away victories in the tournament, first at Busukuma AC, then away to the Isipongo Flash with an 115th minute goal from young winger Baslios Temesgen, and another 2-1 victory in extra time against Kitara, the won the final on neutral ground, earning their first ever trophy as a member of the BSL.

The team exploded for four goals today, which was intriguing considering they were one of the worst offensive teams during league play. However, they were inspired to play at the Stadium of the Restoration, and they will have earned Banija's last spot in the Globe Cup. They will also be playing in the Cup Winners Cup. They will look to build on the momentum of this trophy in the upcoming season, as they will try to be more consistent and bring the magic of this cup run to their form in league play.

This also means, of course, that the center of soccer in Banija is indeed in Herzegovina City. Herzegovina City FC has won the league, and their suburban rivals, the Herzegovina Phoenix, has won the RBSA Cup. Does this mean that the rivalry will develop as the two continue to be top flight clubs, battling for trophies? We'll see, and we'll see what happens when they meet next season at the Stadium of the Restoration for the Kabaka's Cup.