Cup of Harmony 79: Everything Thread

by **Barunia** » Sat Feb 13, 2021 7:53 am

Emmanuel Carter was in a daze. A few days earlier, he had been at his lowest point, broken-hearted, his dreams faded into smoke. But things had changed with a phone call out of the blue.
He stared at the piece of paper in front of him. An X-League contract with his name on it. Sure, the San Baptiste Sea Lions weren’t at the top of Barunia’s premier football league, but they were in it. And now Emmanuel would be too. His hand shook slightly as he picked up the pen and signed his name on the two-year contract.

Two months later, Emmanuel and his parents arrived in Northport on the island of San Baptiste. The Sea Lions were based here, at the legendary Sam Garcia Field. Walking out onto the pitch itself was overwhelming, that hallowed turf where the very first Football League trophy had been won, where the Barunian Suns had played their first world cup, this sacred ground that had seen the boots of players such as Castolo, Marris, Sweet, even Ruskin. Where world cup dreams had been won, and lost...the significance of the place was not lost on Emmanuel. And he he was, barely 16 years old, and about to call this place his home.

Despite his age, he wasn’t joining the youth squad. The Sea Lions were struggling to avoid relegation, and were looking to the future, recruiting young but inexperienced players like Emmanuel who they could pick up cheaply, but who they hoped would blossom into great players. The club was banking on potential, and Emmanuel was one of three young players picked up that season, although he was the youngest. He had been told that he might not get much game time, but that the club would continue to develop his skills. He didn’t care one way or the other. He was Emmanuel Carter, and he was a professional footballer.

His parents soon went home, but Emmanuel stayed, sharing a house with 3 of his teammates. From now on, his routine involved daily training at the stadium complex. Preseason was well underway, and soon the league would start. Emmanuel couldn’t wait to pull on the Sea Lion’s yellow shirt, and have the crowd cheer as he ran out on the field.

by **Busoga Islands** » Sat Feb 13, 2021 9:58 am

The Busoga Chronicle
The Islands #1 News Source!

With rumors swirling around Bethany Donnell's job status, Islanders rally to 1-0 victory over Mapletish to revive CoH hopes

Busoga Islander players celebrate the late match winner against Mapletish

GRANDE MOUNTAIN, CASSADAIGUA- The rumors started leaking the day before Busoga's match against Mapletish. They were the rumors that almost every manager faces at some point in their career- even Daniella Strauss of Nephara, who took the national team to two straight finals, faced those down and ultimately got fired during World Cup Qualifying. The BISA Chairman, apparently speaking with an aide during the game, had grown 'frustrated' with what he felt was the team's lack of progress during the last two World Cup Qualification campaigns. He told an anonymous source that "most nations, 7 campaigns in, should not be stuck in the highest 70s of the KPB rankings."

He also told this source that the team had grown stale under Bethany Donnell, and that if they bombed out of this Cup of Harmony, he apparently hinted that the team should look toward somebody else to take the reigns in time for AOCAF 63. Rumors starting swirling around twii.tur and other social media application in Busoga, about whether or not Donnell would survive this tournament. When asked about the rumors, Bethany Donnell said that she isn't paid to speculate on social media rumors, but that she's here to improve the team and get them ready to face Mapletish. When the BISA Chairman was asked, he said he maintains full confidence in Donnell. Of course, how many sporting executives say that right before they can a coach? The fact that he has to comment at all means the seat is fairly hot.

So there were all sorts of potential distractions heading into the game against the Dragons. As the Mapletish national team performed their The Buio'Dzz dance before the match, worries were all over the place. Could they stay focused with the rumors surrounding their manager? And Mapletish, motivated after their dance, with a Busogan team distracted, came out and blitzed the Islanders, trying to steal an early goal to really put the pressure on us. But Mustafa Taal was up for the challenge. He had four saves in the first 15 minutes of the match, three of them at full stretch. The Dragons were literal centimeters from getting an opening goal that would have surely doomed an Islanders squad that was lacking both rhythm and confidence, and could have seen a disaster.

But the veterans on this squad rallied the team together. Too many veterans want too much from this team to let us simply fall apart and whimper out of the Finals. Look at Kamu Jacobs and Jay Khano, specifically. The two members of the starting XI over 30. They, particularly, went to strengthen their play for the rest of the first half. Especially on defense. Jay Khano marshalled the team to get better in the back, play more organized, keep everything in front of them. Mapletish only managed one more shot on goal for the final 30 minutes plus stoppage of the first half, with the shot being a long one that troubled nobody and went safely into the arms of Mustafa Taal.

Coming out in the second half, the Islanders were more motivated. Ilke Akgun came into the game for Jay Khano. Her decision to play more back gave Cicek Aga more freedom to roam up top, and the front four of Busoga really took over the game for the first 15 minutes of the second half. Things got a lot easier when, in the 55th minute, Kamu Jacobs seemed to get around Randolf Tijs and have a path towards goal. Tijs made an almighty risky challenge, and the defender, who is known for never holding back, mistimed his tackle. He got a lot of Jacobs leg and no ball. It was a violent tackle, and Jacobs went down holding his leg. Islander players immediately surrounded the Tumbran referee, demanding a red. After he waved off the Islander players, he ran towards the sideline to talk to the assistant referee, who saw the foul best. He jogged back over and showed Tijs a red card.

That would be it for Tijs on the night. It was clearly a violent tackle. Was it a goal-scoring opportunity? Maybe, maybe not. Jacobs still had plenty of work to do. But the decision was the decision, and Tijs began the long, lonely walk. And the Islanders would not wait long to cash in on the opportunity. Just a few minutes after that, the Busogan front four would really continue to stretch Mapletish in the back, as they, with only 10 men, were struggling to keep pace with the Islanders. Ivan Dwight, under pressure after winning the ball from Artem Kohut, made an errant pass that found Jacobs. Jacobs, playing quickly, one timed a through pass to Kohut, showing great skill to weight it perfectly. Kohut, barely onsides, had the goalkeeper come out. But it was a two on goalie. Displaying great awareness and unselfishness, Kohut passed it on the ground across the face of goal to Habib Fadika, who tapped the ball home into an empty net. Kohut's first career assist for the Islanders, and Fadika's first career goal for his country. Sixty minutes in, 1-0.

The Islanders take pride in their defense. Up a man, with momentum, they weren't going to try and stretch themselves and be exposed in the back. They came out to try and kill the game. Possession, defense, making Mapletish chase after them. Mapletish was chasing- with Twicetagria's stunning 6-2 victory over Sargossa earlier in the day, Mapletish was facing elimination if scores held. Unfortunately for Mapletish, scores did hold. THey had to chase the ball and the game, but Bethany Donnell's side was disciplined enough to keep any chances away from Mapletish.

And that would be their tournament. A 1-0 victory for the Busoga Islands puts us in a good position. A few days ago, we were not in a good place. Today? We're in second place with a game remaining. Here's what we do know for Matchday 3. Our opponent? 38th ranked Sargossa, who just lost by 4 goals to Twicetagria. They'll be both angry and hungry. And here's what we know. What happens in the Twicetagria match doesn't matter. Twice has won the group, and Mapletish cannot advance. A draw or a win for the Busoga Islands, and we will be through to the second round. But if we lose? Then we'll be on the first flight back to Lakiska.

We surely want more out of the CoH than a group stage elimination, right? Cassadaigua is a fun country to be in- we want to extend our stay. Plenty at stake, loads on the line. A lot of nails will be bit in Victoriaville. Will it be a grand moment for the Busoga Islands? Or will it be the nail in the coffin for the Bethany Donnell era for this national team?

by **Murphtannia** » Sat Feb 13, 2021 10:14 am

Massive Draw see's Murphtannia rise to 2nd

Murphy was pacing about his room, ‘how to counter the Blouman Empire’ he thought, he knew they’d go with a 4-1-4-1, the question was how to exploit that.

Think, think, think, he thought, then it hit him. It was obvious, how could he miss it. Simply exploit the space left in the middle of the park. He had a few calls to make

--One stressful evening later--

Murphy was waiting on the touch line, the game had just kicked off, he thought of how good an opportunity this was to prove the cynics wrong, he’d read the papers and watched Ground Sports, everyone was predicting them to finish bottom of the group.

But a win here proves them wrong, hell even a draw. And so Murphy sat there, anxious in his seat, until in the 15th minute Styler played in a brilliant through ball into murphy WHO SCORED, as he wheeled away in celebration and the fans went nuts, Murphy did his best to remain calm, until the striker who’s name is often confused with his went up and hugged him.

Head’s soon dropped as just 5 minutes later as Hunter whipped in a superb cross for Cousins to get his head on and equalise.

And to add more misery, in the 45th minute Miller scored a simply brilliant goal, smashing it from outside of the box to make it 2-1.

--Inside the dressing room, half time--

Murphy stood there, looking at his disheartened players.

“Look lads you played brilliantly out there, I cannot fault the performance, you were just unlucky with the goals. They are being overrun in the midfield and we have the quality to exploit that, and defenders, you need to concentrate more, don’t lose your heads, just focus.

I want to see a solid display out there, prove why you deserve to qualify!”

The players looked pumped up, the question was, could they actually do what had had said.

--Second Half--

Murphy’s head instantly dropped, 47th minute, Credab gets the ball on the wing, work’s his way into the box and smashes it into the side of the net, 3-1. However as Murphy’s head dropped his players got fired up, the crowd were fired up.

For the next 10 minutes Blouman were on the backfoot, trapped inside their own half, that alone impressed Murphy, but the best was yet to come.

60th minute, Jenkins collects the ball off Miller, passes it to Styler, who passes it to Owen, who passes it to Elliott who crosses the ball into the box GOALLLLL, Murphy couldn’t contain himself as Saunders rises like a salmon to head it top bins, 3-2 game on.

The game was even, both sides getting no chances and battling in midfield, until Cousins got a chance, dis-possesing Pallet and getting 1 on 1 with the keeper, Ball dived to his right to pull off a magnificent save.

Then Banks picked up the ball, and hoofed it long into the path of Pole. His hold up play allowing him to keep the ball, before laying off the pass into Boland, BOLAND SCORES.

3-3, MURPHY’S HEAD WAS GONE, HE RAN AND HUGGED BOLAND.

The next 20 minutes of the game were anxious, Murphtannia battled Blouman to a stalemate and honestly the draw was a fair result, both sides played well enough to win and cancelled each other out.

Murphy thought to himself ‘Maybe, just maybe, he could get the win or draw vs Flavovespia, then surely he could qualify for the knockout stages of an international tournament for the first time.’

by **TJUN-ia** » Sat Feb 13, 2021 10:17 am

By Peter Davis

After an entertaining draw with Pluvia and the Saxean Isles kicked off out Cup of Harmony, we once again head out to The Harbour Coliseum to play for our fate in this competition. A day of draws in this group means that all 4 teams are still on level pegging heading into MD2 and up against Yue Zhou, we looked to try and get really up and running in this group. David Seems knew that a win today would be pivotal for our chances heading into MD3, so he tried his best to get his team to really go for it this time around.

The game would kick off in the best way as we took the lead within 10 minutes, a nice corner by David Johnson headed in by the ever-reliable Kepo Ulawaya. After that, it would be very tight play from both sides as TJUN-ia looked for a 2nd and Yuezhou looked for an equaliser. Joe Green had a good chance in the 34th and Li Jing almost got one himself in the 37th but it would remain the Jaguars with the advantage over the Dragons heading into the tunnel.

After that, more tight play as even the substitutes got involved in trying to find another goal in this contest. Archer Andrews saw his effort go off the bar in the 67th while Luo Dan also had a great chance in the 73rd. The real big moment would come in the 79th as a corner by Li Jing found its way, via a few deflections, to substitute defender Diadora REEVE to shot into the net. 1-1 and certainly game on. The rest of the half was spent by both teams trying to find a winner but in the end, nothing would come of it. A late equaliser had given Yuezhou a point and the Jags had to settle for another draw.

With Sylestone beating Pluvia 2-0 in the other game, our MD3 match-up with the Sentients is going to be a big fucking game for the sake of the group. TJUN-ia needs the 3 points in order to advance as group winners, anything less will not be enough, and this will certainly decide how we feel about this team exiting the year. Will Davis Seems and his Jaguars rise to the occasion, or will will fall once again in the big games and ultimately exit this competition at the groups for only the 2nd time? GO JAGS!

SCHEDULE (Group D, all matches at The Harbour Coliseum, Coffs)
MD1: vs Pluvia and the Saxean Isles (150) D 2-2 (T-1st)
MD2: vs Yuezhou (Yue Zhou) (94)D 1-1 (2nd)
MD3: vs Sylestone (72)

by **Saltstead** » Sat Feb 13, 2021 11:59 am

stallion.stable.co.zs
All Saltsteadish! All football!
Was Saltstead’s World Cup qualifying campaign a fluke?
Group K        Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts
1 Bluecliff      2   2  0  0    7   5  +2    6
2 Zeta Reka      2   1  0  1    5   5   0    3
3 Kandorith      2   1  0  1    3   3   0    3
4 Saltstead      2   0  0  2    1   3  −2    0
All signs point to yes.

██ Saltstead predicted starting XI against Bluecliff: Christijn Sänt-Andreas; Jan-Pijr Åudenberg, Johan van Tilborg, Yorg Handel, Constantijn Kåler; Violeta Igesleven, Benni Sħåul, Margaretha Wilheumssen, Nico Joxepħssen, Aleksa Pascal; Edvard Rothås
— Miho des Camps from Concord Heights

★
The Royal Saltsteadish Football Association
Royal House of Sport, Ashwell
Saltstead : Bluecliff
Cup of Harmony 79 group stage — Matchday 3
Five Star Mobile Stadium, Brattleboro, Cassadaigua
Starting line-up (4–5–1): Christijn Sänt-Andreas; Jan-Pijr Åudenberg, Johan van Tilborg, Yorg Handel, Constantijn Kåler; Violeta Igesleven, Benni Sħåul, Margaretha Wilheumssen, Nico Joxepħssen, Aleksa Pascal; Edvard Rothås
Substitute bench: Robert-Jan van Daal, Kathrinita Äsħes; Micħäl Aurelius, Dijter Ackerdijħ, Serena van Middelkamp, Catharine de Vriħt; Natasħa Aħterop, Zacharias van den Slåp, Mina Ratmaker, Thomas Lions; Reinhard Åubreħtssen, Haråud Haråudssen

by **Xanneria** » Sat Feb 13, 2021 12:45 pm

The National will be back!
excerpt from http://www.xtrasports.xan/football

XANNERIA - It's Official, despite a rocky start to the serie, the National Brewing Company has announced that it will once again pull out all the stops for the top teams in the nation. In the previous tournament an upstart team from Wreckeria beat out Busorga Islands for the championship, this is from a tournament that included over 2/3rds of the field in the top-100. While the announcement came with some surprise as the overall tournament was seen as a flop with Xanneria themselves struggling and many think the players didn't take the tournament seriously, the organizers did say that they would be more loose on the entry eligibility, and instead of the north east Esportiva, but rather they are changing the format to twelve teams six of which are Esportivan and the other six non-Esportivan. National Brewing is one of the oldest Breweries in Xanneria, founded in 1892 National has been a go to for people all through out the Xannerian lands and internationally too. Natty's have been a staple of Xanneria, their parties, and their good times since 1892 and the main brewery is based in East Rowe, Hastings.

Maroons pull off comeback draw against Jeruselem
excerpt from http://www.xtrasports.xan/nationalteam.htm

CASSADAIGUA - In a much anticipated game between Xanneria and Jeruselam, the game proved to be the hi-Energy game we all anticipated and drew in a 4-4 draw for the Maroons. It wasn't with out a fight though, coming back from a 4-1 defecit at an hour in the Maroons used the flashy feet of Bray Feltzer to push ahead and get a draw. Feltzer who was designated the Penelty Kick taker by manager Myrone Rhule. Rhule himself got in a dust up with media after he called the team "Skanks". But alas he was able to pull of the draw with Feltzer getting a hat trick and now on to the game versus San Ortello. A small nation in Rushmore whose meteoric climb has been well documented. Many with in FLOX and the Xannerian media have sung their praises and said, they were on par with Eura as the two teams Xannerians didn't want to face. Hopefully the game will got he Maroons way.

XANNERIA - 4
Feltzer 18'(PK) 55 84'
Falcon 62'

JERUSELEM - 4
K Dallas 7' 23'
R SMuggs 31'
A Dallas 36'

by **Valladares** » Sat Feb 13, 2021 2:58 pm

The National Kickoff
The Online Home of Valladar Football!

Six Goals a Day Make a Laura Smile

By: Laura Palma

Hello, lovers of Valladar football and other casual readers and welcome to another entry of The National Kickoff, covering the Valladar national football team in their Cup of Harmony quest. It might still be quite early, especially since this competition will be sort of a "double World Cup finals" with 64 teams competing, but La Nacional are one step closer to make it to the next round after tearing poor Indusse apart with a merciless 6-2 score, and I am quite happy about it since it was the first time in a while I've seen a Valladares team win with such a superiority and in such a dominating fashion. Why are we still unable to book our ticket to the last 32, though? Because Northwest Kalactin won, my God, I lost a couple Points betting on a draw between them and Frestovenia but that's a topic for another blog. What else do we need to qualify? One more point and the group's top spot is ours.

But let's talk about what happened at Gold Coast International between Valladares and Indusse, each coming into this match in opposite situations: we kicked off our campaign on the right foot, spoiling the party for hosts Northwest Kalactin in the opening match of the tournament, Indusse on the other hand had been upset by Frestovenia on the first matchday and needed a victory in order to give their hopes a second wind before they were over. But Valladares, unlike the opening match in which I feel we respected Northwest Kalactin a lot (don't get me wrong, they're the top seeds and all that but I don't see why we shouldn't have tried winning by a bigger margin...), this time went out to devour their rivals alive. What didn't change between the first match and this one was La Nacional's practice of scoring early openers, as the side coached by Jessica Curran once again struck in the first minutes of play with Wilfried Baume scoring twice in the first 10 minutes (3' and 8') to give Valladares a relatively comfortable lead in few time. Having taken that couple of successive hits to the jab and in need of avoiding a swift CoH exit, Indusse tried to mount a reaction, but their tactical disposition on the field with three defenders made them leave huge holes at the back and the flanks which were naturally exploited to great effect by the Valladar players, shown with two further Valladar goals in the 27th and 38th minutes, both of which originated from the Valladar right flank, with Ronald Mickel bombing the Indusse box with crosses and Thibault Benezet and Cristian Benítez heading them both into the back of the rival net. Wow, just 45 minutes and Valladares were already demolishing Indusse. Wow.

Apparently, there was either a touching motivational pep talk or an egregious scolding in the Indusse lockers at halftime, because the attitude of the Indusse side in the first 10 minutes or so of the second half seemed to have a 180-degree change. The team managed by Joseph Mouteudi came out firing on all cylinders against the goal defended by Paulo Gaviria looking for the swift goals they were unable to get in the first half to make their defeat look less embarrassing. And they were aided by a somewhat controversial handball by Martín Delgado, which to me didn't seem like it (I saw the ball hit on his chest!) but I unfortunately have no refereeing powers or influence. Anyways, Indusse were awarded a penalty and Baskar H Kumar exchanged it for a goal in the 49th minute, and seven minutes later Indusse were able to pull another goal back thanks to Antonio Mersias, who sent The Flocking Blues into a frenzy and surely gave them a hope they would be able to stage an epic comeback. However, Valladares accelerated again and once again brought out Indusse's defensive shortcomings: Ronald Mickel, who got tired of firing crosses to the Indussean box, decided to try his luck with a mid-range shot in the 67th minute and it went into the goal toi bring back the 3-goal lead, while substitue Alexis Durmisi, who had entered the field shortly after Indusse scored the 4-2, further punished their rivals with his special weapon: setpieces to score the sixth in the 79th minute. With the sixth goal, the game entered an understandable lull: Indusse had already collapsed after conceding the 5-2, while the Valladars seemed to have mercy on their rival and kept moving the ball around the middle of the field. Even the referee understood the match was over long ago and finished the game as soon as the clock marked 90:00!

So there you have it, two matches and two wins...where are the Curran-haters hiding now, eh? As I said in the opening paragraph, this large win would have been enough to ensure Valladares of a round of 32 berth had Northwest Kalactin not beaten Frestovenia, who by the way, are our next rivals in the final group matchday. A draw would be just enough to advance and claim top spot of the group...but who doesn't want to give himself or herself a morale boost ahead of the start of the real tournament with a third win and nine out of nine, huh? Clearly me...and I hope our players, too! ¡Adelante, Valladares!

Valladares 6–2 Indusse
(Baume 3', 8', Benezet 27', Benítez 38', Mickel 67', Durmisi 79'; Kumar 49' (pen.), Mersias 56')

Valladares: Gaviria (7) - Marrugo (8), Delgado (7), Fletcher (7) - Castillo (6), O'Brien (7), Mickel (9), Barrios (6) - Benítez (7) - Baume (8), Benezet (7)
Subbed Out: Barrios 58', Benezet 68', Castillo 75'
Subbed In: Durmisi 58' (7), Germain 68' (6), Martelli 75' (7)
Unused Subs: Chamoun, Brown, Hossiner, Vargas, Mariner, Betancourt, Zamudio, Fortin, Araúz
Manager: Jessica Curran (Cassadaigua)

Stadium: Gold Coast International Football Stadium, Gold Coast, Northwest Kalactin
Attendance: 98,583

by **Krytenia** » Sat Feb 13, 2021 3:51 pm

Ballina, NWK, sometime between the SRS and Transvolcannic games

Rami Niblick scowled at his laptop as he sat in the corner of the coffee shop. The brown sludge in his mug had been sold to him as a "flat white"; the only thing it was flat of was flavour. Whatever talents the baristas had here, it clearly wasn't beverage related.

"No idea what this crap is, Simon, but it sure as hell isn't coffee."
"I'm not sure it even counts as a drink, boss. I could stand my spoon up in this sludge."
Rami sighed. "Have you seen this?"
"Oh god, is that another Skorji video?"
"Yeah. Don't know what it is with these video memers, but for some reason you can't move for people dubbing that announcement with stupid music tracks."
"Let's be honest here, boss, you're just jealous nobody clicked on yours."
"Aw, come on, that was comedy gold."
"You've spent too much time around Jeremy." Simon instintively dodged at the mention of the word 'Jeremy', as a cup flew past where his head was.

by **San Ortelio** » Sat Feb 13, 2021 4:37 pm

Vito had noticed the loud clicks of stilettos marching through the hallway already, yet closed the door carefully and lighted his cigarette. Before he could form the first circle of smoke, the thick metal security door was pushed open. Evita stepped in, staring to the opposite brick wall as if she was considering the best way to hurt it and its ancestry.

"You're not much of a gentleman once the cameras stop turning," she remarked casually after a silent minute or two.

Maybe not, but Vito could read a room and offered her a smoke as well, which she inhaled as if it was a timed competition.

"I am that much of a nuisance?" he sniggered.
"Yes, but I am used to that by now," followed the quick reply.

The two had developed a peculiar relationship. In public, they seemed one another's nemesis: the producer would not let a chance go by to complain about the happy-go-lucky attitude of the presenter, whilst the latter challenged her authority on set by making the other one the but of every punchline. And still. Evita would rather be tortured than admitting she had learned a lot about the trade from him whilst Vito would never confess how he respected the speed with which she picked it all up - it took a particularly rowdy company christmas party to give as much as a positive remark on her mark.

But they knew, without it ever being voiced, about one another and that sufficed.

"I love it more when they're already so shellshocked that they appear on national television, that they eat out of your hand," he finally spoke.
"Amen," she replied, "but don't worry, mister Muscles is toast."
"Good news."
"But that's it," Evita sighed, "five people who remember shirt numbers from players from nations from god knows where. Who knows this stuff?"
"We've seen weirder," Vito lifted his shoulders, "remember the kid who could name the capital of every country from the World Assembly? Scary stuff."
"True, but we just bonked his last question - good show and for free."

She had emphasised the last two words but it wasn't really needed. It was a public secret that the channel quite had it with paying the lavish sums for the winners.

"Still as bad?" Vito informed. He couldn't care less about the pockets of the bigwigs, but a cancellation of the show due to overheads wasn't in his best interests either.
"We can still pay a single winner," she sighed.
"But…"
"There's four more shows after this one. We need one for free."

Being the last six left did have its advantages. Rather than a plastic cup filled with lukewarm water of doubtful heritage, the crew had brought out decent refreshment and even a plate of fresh pastry.

"He clearly didn't get the cliff notes," Pietro grinned with half a croissant in his mouth.

The man whom the crew now only knew as Topolino nodded in agreement. It was the little push Pietro needed and as none of the others disagreed, he turned it up another notch.

"That Vito just doesn't get it," he adds and, as what he considers the biggest insult, "and his brandy smells cheap."

It's clear that the others are less inclined to a round of thrashtalking. They sit together in a circle, apart from the youngster with the hoodie - Luca, according to his bracelet - who pumped some trance through his earbuds at a volume loud enough for all to keep up with the rhythm.

"It's a shame for Adelberto," Elina switched the subject. "He's from Redoccio, like me, and he's a known phenomenon. He could have gone all the way."
"I told you, that Vito is a bastard."
"Well, well, that's all a bit quick, Pietro," Elina shushed him, looking around angstily as if his words could get her disqualified as well.
"Loved the look on his face when you said the line about the friend and his grandson," Erica tossed another log on the fire.
"I meant it and we maybe we all should."

There was a moment of hesitation here. Sure, they all wanted to see the dream of an old man come true. Even more, considering the size of the potential price at the end of the road, they did not mind sharing a bit with Adelberto. But there still was a wide gap between a small benevolent act and standing up to the production house - who knew the limit of their power?

"You don't need to announce it as boisterous like I did," Pietro read the room and Elina immediately confirmed her support. Than Topolino and the salesman - who had introduced himself with a flashy Manuele Mercanti, tutti e quanti, at your service quickly followed. The reply from Erica came slightly more hesitant but as she had coined the topic, she felt obliged to join their little alliance. The warmth from the good deed lasted shortly.

"Yeah, count me out," were the first words Luca spoke out loud, "besides, who'll check? And once you've got the check, you'll think twice."
"That's disappointing, young man," Pietro spoke, failing to hide his vocational background with the stern yet comforting words.
Luca shrugged, unphased, "besides, you all act as if the money is assured. First you need to answer the last collective question correctly as the sole one. And then you need to nail the double or nothing. Two chances to tear the price to pieces and being cross like mister Big Mouth there won't have done us any favors."

It left them all perplexed. They knew the rules of the game as Luca stated, but hadn't yet considered them this way.

"That's a grim world view," Manuele eventually sighed, between his teeth.
"Because a show too stingy to offer a candidate a proper drink until ninety percent of them are eliminated will definitely enjoy paying you four mill."

Luca was right, but it was a blow to the atmosphere. In the end, it was Erica who launched a cryptic remark.

"Only one of those cliffs is hampered by our knowledge."
"What do you mean," asked Elina.
"That they decide how tough the last question, but we decide whether or not there is a last man, or woman, standing."
"Let's say," Manuele caught her drift, "that ahead of the last game against Xanneria, Di Tane says boys, they're through with five points, as are we, I've heard their manager, let's make it a fun game but one with a draw so we're both in the knock-outs. Do you see that as good or bad?"
"It is definitely clever," Topolino admitted.
"Isn't it against the rules?" Elina squeaked.
"Not by my knowledge," Erica bluffed, unaware of any official ruleset.

There was a moment of consideration. Having someone win rather than no one, sounded better, if only for Adelberto. Once again it was Luca who popped that balloon.

"It only works if you fully trust the others. Good luck with that," and he jumped off his chair, pointing to the counter which indicated there was half a minute left before the recordings resumed.

Left with more questions than answers, all strolled back to the studio in silence. Only Pietro tried to start a conversation, with Erica.

"I'm with you on it."
"Let's first get near the end," she shut him down quickly, "with easy questions like the last one, it might take a while longer."
"Yeah, fairly easy," Pietro mumbled, "you had it right away?"
"Sure, Riggs opened the scoreline so 10a, easypeasy. What's next, asking our scorers?"

Pietro didn't reply to her rhetorical question, only cursed in himself.

by **Jeruselem** » Sat Feb 13, 2021 4:41 pm

Jeruselem Manager Pekora Dancer and Naked News Jeruselem's Akai Hanto in Cassadaigua after a 4-4 draw with Xanneria

Peko: What's up Miss Hanto, partied too hard?
Akai: Yeah hangover
Peko: You're supposed to be working, not partying
Akai: Well, me and some girls had to little too much to drink
Peko: I avoid doing that these days, my partying are over. Too old for that.
Akai: Good thing I'm not a Dallas girl

Peko: I guess we didn't lose but it's not like we're in a good position
Akai: 4-4 draw with Xanneria isnt the worse result at all
Peko: I guess it isn't but I would have preferred won this one ...
Akai: We're not eliminated yet
Peko: That's because San Ortelio drew 1-1 with Netop, which was good for us as we didn't want those guys to win either
Akai: So we need to beat Netop

Peko: We always had to beat them after we lost the first game against San Ortelio
Akai: True
Peko: San Ortelio play Xanneria next
Akai: OK, we need to win which puts us on 4 points. If we lose or draw, we're eliminated.
Peko: Yes well, if San Ortelio draw Xanneria - we're eliminated.
Akai: Hopefully Xanneria can win.

Peko: We need to win, and hope someone wins the next other game ... and destroy the goal difference of the other team
Akai: Yes, that could happen.
Peko: Assume we win our game!
Akai: That's no certainty
Peko: Yeah
Akai: I mean, at least we didn't lose today.

Peko: We were leading 4-1 at one stage but that tosser Feltzer wrecked it for us
Akai: They seem rather dependent on him scoring hat tricks
Peko: That's not a good thing, if he's missing in the team ... what happens?
Akai: I guess the result of the other game could make any win moot
Peko: Just don't expect miracles hey
Akai: Didn't we barely qualify in the previous Cup of Harmony

Peko: Pretty much ... we got lucky there
Akai: We're nursing a few injuries aren't we?
Peko: Everyone is nursing injuries picked up during the World Cup. We're not like 100% fully fit.
Akai: I dunno, I'm never fit so I wouldn't know.
Peko: I'm not much of an athelete myself
Akai: But aren't you a dancer?

Peko: Oh that, not a real one ...
Akai: That Kate Dallas seems to get a lot of attention
Peko: That just people confusing Princess Kate and her. Which doesn't make sense really, everyone knows what Princess Kate looks like naked so there should be no confusion.
Akai: But some are banned from watching Naked News ... so they wouldn't have seen that
Peko: I think most royal watchers know Princess Kate is a different person from Kate anyway.
Akai: Still the average Dallas girl is prettier than the average Jeruselem girl

Peko: Kate is quite boring ... compared to Princess Kate who's pretty much a female pervert. Kate is really ordinary.
Akai: I know the Princess too well
Peko: You both are pretty bad trolls
Akai: I think that's why she likes me.
Peko: You got all sorts down there at Naked News Jeruselem. You're the crazy Asian one.
Akai: Only slightly crazy.

by **HUElavia** » Sat Feb 13, 2021 7:41 pm

Conti-Esposito Conquers Group N for HUElavia!

South Covello 0-1 HUElavia
(Conti-Esposito 50')
(Dagan Airways Stadium, Concord Heights)

Coming off a stellar 5-3 victory over North Japan, HUElavia was looking to keep the momentum swinging in their favor. Their next match was against South Covello, one of, if not, THE most defensive team in the tournament. South Covello was coming off a 0-0 draw against the Euran Oceania Territories, which meant the team had to get a victory to stay in the hunt of making the Round-of-32. The match was played at Dagan Airways Stadium (83,000), in Concord Heights. The stadium was packed to the brim, with HUElavians taking up one endzone and South Covellans taking up the other. HUElavia played with their Main XI once more, with Ramos in goal and Navarro as the Captain for the match. The Away Alternative Uniform was selected for the match. Once the teams came out and the anthems were played, the ball rolled and the match was under way!

The match was a fairly dull match from the get-go. South Covello's defensive tactics had them get the ball and pass it around to kill off time and try to build momentum. For the HUElavian crowd, used to more attacking football from opponents, would boo and whistle at the South Covellan players whenever they had the ball. In turn, the South Covellan fans would boo and whistle the HUElavian players whenever they had the ball. The opening shot would come in the 15th minute, when Guilbert dispossessed Rivers, and got the ball running towards the defense. He gave a pass to Sol, who got past Klementine, and gave a vicious, curving shot where it hit the top bar and went out for a goal kick. South Covello would try to get a shot in the 38th minute, when McAllister got the ball and took a shot that deflected off Mendieta. In the ensuing corner kick taken by Gordon, it was taken out of the air with ease by Ramos and thrown out for a possible counter attack by Hamada, only to be snuffed out by Ukelele for a throw-in. At half-time, the score was 0-0, which had the HUElavians whistling and booing at the lack of shots and opportunities.

In the second half, HUElavia went more on the attack, and began to press more on South Covello. Shots by Navarro, Hamada-Navarro, and Sol, only to go out for goal kicks. In the 50th minute, Duran tried to get a pass through to Guilbert, and was taken down by Yachtwood, where the referee blew her whistle and signaled a free kick from considerable distance. Conti-Esposito was tasked to take the kick, having the option to cross it into the box or go directly for the shot. Conti-Esposito stepped up and shot the ball, soaring over the wall and out of reach from Tyler, as the ball blasted into the top corner of the goal, making it 0-1. The HUElavian crowd in front of goal jumped up in near unison, as they roared and cheered on the goal, jumping and screaming to make the stadium rumble, all while it was a deafening sound to take in. Conti-Esposito ran to the corner where her husband was at to hug and kiss him while the crowd there mobbed the area to get close to her. The players followed through by hugging and giving hi-5 to Conti-Esposito and giving hi-5 to some fans in the crowd. South Covello was shocked and demoralized with the goal that caught them off guard. After kick off, South Covello was unable to get something going. Attacks from Charles, McAllister, and substitutes like Brown (in for Charles) and Lewis (in for Night) were going nowhere thanks to the stellar performance by Mendieta and Castro-Bitencourt. Amaru and Mariño also had no problems sending passes out in order to stop the South Covellan attacks. Despite attacks from Torrisi (in for Guilbert), Moutinho-Figo (in for Hamada-Navarro), and Tiong Belleza (in for Sol), HUElavia could also not get any other shots through. The South Covellan defense tightened up and would refuse for any other goal to go in. At the end, once the referee blew her whistle, the team found out that they had advanced out of Group N into the Round-of-32 thanks to the other game earlier that day, and the team went onto the pitch to celebrate their advance while the fans cheered and jumped once again to celebrate. HUElavia won 0-1, and took another important 3 Points.

With the Victory, HUElavia advances out of Group N with 6 Points (2-0-0) at the very least. In the other game, Euran Oceania Territories and North Japan ended in a spectacular 4-4 draw, thus allowing HUElavia to clinch 1st Place in Group N with the 6 points. The final Group Stage game will be against Euran Oceania Territories, and it will be played at Qusmair Stadium (77,000) in New Lakeland. It is expected that more than 55%-60% of the stadium will be filled with HUElavians cheering on the team. The B-Team will be used, with Vannier in goal, while M.A. Duran will be Captain for the team. The Home Uniform will be used for the match. The team continues to train hard and study film for the match, as they look for what could be a historic sweep in the Group Stage, a first in HUElavian Football History. The fans continue loving their stay. The fans have enjoyed celebrating in the streets, especially to the tunes of samba played by the fans, whether it's by instruments or speakers on their phones or computers.

Here's to the sweep and the continuation of this fantastic tournament!

FORCA HUELAVIA! VAMOS HUELAVIA! GO HUELAVIA!

by **Mavinet** » Sat Feb 13, 2021 11:45 pm

Brilliant youngsters pulled Mavinet through Cup of Harmony’s group stage in emphatic fashion
by Võ Thành Trung, Associate Editor

The second matchday in a three-day group stage schedule is usually the defining one. Whether one can move on to the next stage, continue to survive for one last match, or book the tickets back home is decided on this day. For Mavinet in the Cup of Harmony 79, they need to win the second match against Garbelia to avoid the final match’s anxiety against a superior Newmanistan. On a fine afternoon at the Gold Coast International Stadium in Northwest Kalactin, the Water Buffaloes made sure the advance is secure with an emphatic 6-1 victory over Garbelia. A win was expected before the match so the result isn’t entirely surprising. The biggest talking point about the match was the appearance of a large number of young players, who had brought a much-needed freshness to the national team.

It will be a unfair to credit everything to the players without acknowledging the positive tactical changes made by caretaker head coach Phan Vinh Hiển ahead of the match against Garbelia. Instead of the usual 4-2-3-1, which worked well for several years under former head coach Nguyễn Minh Quân but has started to become too predictable, Vinh Hiển changed to a 4-4-2, with rising star Nguyễn Hoàng Bách playing alongside Phạm Thái Gia up front while creative Mai Trung Hải dropped a bit deeper in the midfield. In attacks, Mai Trung Hải and Nguyễn Hoàng Bách virtually play side-by-side in the advance midfield area, providing plenty of options for other teammates in wide area and in midfield to pass to. The duo played a role in 4 out of 6 goals scored by Mavinet, with Trung Hải continued his scoring streak with a goal in the 34th minute, while Hoàng Bách contributed a brace on his debut to the national team.

Beside these two top performers, other young players also made a strong first impression for the national team. In defense, young center back Trần Quang Đăng had a decent showing alongside his veteran partner Hồ Hùng Dũng. The duo was effective with their interception, stopping most passes from the Garbelery players into the box, and their physicality proved useful in aerial situations. Although Garbelia did not threaten for much of the match, there were still dangerous situations that could have ended up in goals if wasn’t for the anticipation of Trần Quang Đăng and the quick hands of Đỗ Mạnh Cường. Garbelia did get one goal from Quang Đăng’s mistake in the 20th minute that gave Otto Otter a wide angle to attempt a shot. Fans should not feel too disappointed about that slip-up as it was the young center back who scored the opener just 3 minutes before that and stayed composed for the rest of the match.

Out in the wide areas, Phạm Nhật Quang and Trần Khang Anh paired up nicely with Phùng Thiếu Văn and Lê Chí Thọ on the right and left flanks respectively to make frequent penetrations into the final third. The fullbacks were active with their overlaps and crosses, and although the quality of the final delivery still left much to be desired, their efforts were important in helping Mavinet pushing up to the opponent’s side.

Last but not least, Phạm Thái Gia was a valuable presence in the opponent’s box. His towering height and strength put the Garbelery defense on a constant state of alert trying to mark him. Although this limited his maneuver space and chance to score, his presence freed Hoàng Bách and Trung Hải from some marking and gave the creative players enough space to craft precise passes to wide players and to Thái Gia himself. With good teamwork, the striker from Phúc Châu Port scored two for himself and laid up one for Hoàng Bách in the 66th minute. Despite not as quick on his feet or as mobile in the box as Võ Thanh Hải, Thái Gia certainly showed he has plenty to offer in terms of combativeness and intelligent passing with teammates.

With all six goals scored by young faces in the national team’s roster and an overall more energetic performance, Mavinet have turned a new face with the latest win against Garbelia. Phan Vinh Hiển will have more to experiment as the Water Buffaloes face stronger opponents in the next match and in the Round of 32, but early signs have been encouraging. With the newfound confidence for the youngster after a solid display, hopefully Mavinet can refresh themselves and bring pure passion and creativity back to their football – the type of football that captivated the hearts and minds of football fans across the country from the beginning.

GARBELIA - 1
20’ Otto Otter

MAVINET - 6
17’ Trần Quang Đăng
34’ Mai Trung Hải
39’ Phạm Thái Gia
53’ Nguyễn Hoàng Bách
66’ Nguyễn Hoàng Bách
75’ Phạm Thái Gia

MD3’s lineup against Newmanistan: 4-4-2
Hoang Trung (GK) / Phuoc Long (LB), Quang Dang (CB), Van Thao (CB), Van Hau (RB) / Tien Linh (LM), The Hien (CM), Hoang Minh (CM), Thanh Hoang (RL) / Thanh Hai (LF), Hoang Bach (RF).

by **Mapletish** » Sun Feb 14, 2021 12:39 am

The Sour Kind
"I only know one thing, that is I know nothing"

Random Songs Created by Timothy Jozua

Goodbye Floris

Floris put him out like the leaves, his last stand
No rest Floris just went to sleep
I was kinda bored by that time and it was getting late
Floris said thanks for the visit and then Floris waved it goodbye

Floris said time is not on my side
I say this was not the time

Floris gets money win win win win win
Floris gets money all the time
Floris gets money all the time
Floris gets money all the time
BUT NO Floris have lost
So where the money got

Well it happens to the girl that gets too close
As Floris walks into the room
I just want a girl who can cut
Who can take what I want so Floris can take it from me not you

Floris makes me wish that I could stay there
Well I make my money from the country

Floris gets money win win win win win
Floris gets money all the time
Floris gets money all the time
Floris gets money all the time
BUT NO Floris have lost
So where the money got

Shame Floris was going to great city high
Old boy broke his broken heart

Floris gets money win win win win win
Floris gets money all the time
Floris gets money all the time
Floris gets money all the time
BUT NO Floris have lost
So where the money got

by **Northwest Kalactin** » Sun Feb 14, 2021 12:50 am

Part 1
3 Weeks Later, Kalactin-Mart Headquarters
Johnson walks into Lawrence’s office, With a folder of ideas in his hand

“Hello there Zac, how are you doing?”

“I’m doing very well right now, especially since I just finished this folder for our plan. It outlines what we are going to make Northwest Kalactin into after we change it from an Anarchy to a orderly society.”

“Alright then, you are thinking a bit ahead, although I want to know what you are planning for the nation, and what we can improve on in the ideas.”

“Awesome. So first of all, we need to establish a way to rule the nation. Here, I propose 2 different areas of government. One will be the Executive Area, and the other will be the Legislative Area.”

“Ok. What in particular do you think would serve us well in the Legislative area?”

“Well, my plan for the Legislature is a complex one, however I do believe it achieves our goals for the nation. I want 2 Areas of Parliament, 1 will be the House of Congress, which will be a 600 seat elected body which will be split up into districts. Each congressman will represent a different district, and new members will be elected every 4 years.”

“This sounds like an interesting system. How will districts be split?”

“Well, I have equated it to about 40,000 people per district, so the districts will be split per 40,000 people, although the provincial governments will be in control of the districting.”

“That sounds like a solid number of votes per district. What will the second area of the Legislature be?”

“It will be a Senate. However, the electoral process for this Senate is a very complex one. Instead of the people choosing, each Province will be allocated 1-5 Senators based on their population. The Congressmen from each province will be in charge of electing their given senator. For example, if a province has 3 senators, and 30 Congressmen, 3 seats will be challenged in primaries by senators. The winner of the primaries for each party will then move onto the congress vote, and the 30 congressmen from that given province will vote on their top 3 senator choices. The senators with the most votes will win their seat.”

“What purpose will the Senators have in the nations lawmaking?”

“Well, it will be a very powerful one. They must Approve each act by the congress, and any act defeated by at least a 2/3’s vote will be vetoed, and will be defeated with no questions asked. Any vote with a 50-65% disapproval rate from the Senators will be sent back to the Congress for revisions, with notes from the Senators on what to revise in the bill.”

“Ok, you mentioned a Executive Branch, can you clarify their role in the nation?”

“Well, the Executive Branch will have a strong, yet balanced role in the nation. They too will approve the acts by congress, although a majority vote in any legislature can override a veto by the Executive Branch. Every 5 years, a vote will be held for the spot of Prime Minister. The electoral system will be a mix of an electoral college, and a direct democracy. If you win 1 district, that counts as 1 vote. The winner of the most districts will take the job in office every 5 years. There is a 1 term limit, so nobody serves for too long in office.”

“This sounds like a solid plan for the nation, and I like it. This government will help insure equal representation and order in the nation, nice job Zac.”

“Thanks mate, hopefully we are able to execute it well.”

“Of course, see you later!”

Northwest Kalactin 5–2 Frestovenia
Well, what a game it was for Kalactanian squad to get back in the mix of group A. At the home field of the Gold Coast International Field, they were able to beat a skilled and rising Frestovenia team by a margin of 3 goals, which is an impressive feat, even though they are currently more experienced that Frestovenia. A goal for Jimmy McCarthy sealed the deal in the 81st minute, as the Kalactanians went ahead by 2 at that point, and a nice Free Kick by Thomas Butler tacked onto the lead in the 86th minute also.

Jared Sednah had this to say about the game “I felt like our guys did a very good job of finishing off the game in the final minutes. We were able to take the lead and hold it, which I feel gave this team a boost of confidence. Who knows if we can carry that momentum going into our next match, but I believe this team has the willpower to do so, and we will need it. Indusse may have less experience, although they have nothing less than a skilled roster of players that we must respect if we want to win the game.”

The next game will be a pivotal game for the Kalactanian team, as they play Indusse, a team which they have not played in a while, since the days of the All India Football Cup. However, this team should be one that we should be able to handle, and not cause us too much trouble. The Kalactanian team will need the win here, as they are holding onto a Round of 32 spot by a thread currently, and a slip up tomorrow could put that spot out of balance for the Kalactanians.

by **Blouman Empire** » Sun Feb 14, 2021 2:28 am

THE EMPIRE TIMES

Eagles Forced To Settle For Draw

Anthony Boland’s strike helped Murphtannia come from 3-1 down to earn a point against the Eagles in an eventful Cup of Harmony match day 2 encounter. The draw keeps the Eagles top of the ladder but still only 2 points clear of third, while Murphtannia will have will have heartened the fans who are currently sitting in second spot on the table.

It began well for Murphtannia when George Murphy poked in from Jake Styler's through ball in the 15th minute, but the Eagles were level five minutes later as Ryan Hunter sent a looping header in for Cousins to equalise the scores. This reignited the Eagles as they began to press looking for their second goal which eventually came in the 45th minute just moments before the half time whistle blew. The ball bounced off defender Callum Pallet after he threw his body in the way of a strike from Cousins but into the path of John Miller who blasted it into the net to put the Eagles in the lead at the break.

The Eagles came out firing after the break and had scored within two minutes of the second half kick-off. Receiving a long ball from the middle of the park Issac Credab took the ball down the wing before cutting into the box and expertly threaded it past Adam Ball and into the net to put the Eagles two goals up. Instead of caving in, Murphtannia sprang out of the blocks from the restart. Within 50 seconds they had an attempt on goal which was just parried over the bar by Rory Flinn and for the next 10 minutes Murphtannia probed and the Blouman defence taking their chances when it came as the Eagles struggled to retain possession. The strong effort from Murphtannia was rewarded in the 60th minute George Jenkins took the ball off Miller in an expert tackle and 4 passes later it was Alex Saunder who got on the end of the cross to header it in and make the game exicting once again. Murphtannia continued to pepper the Eagles area and while the Blouman players got some shots in it was one of these attempts that quickly led to the goal. An attempt by Cousins was saved by Ball which resulted in a long ball to Jake Pole who layed it off to Boland to level the score. For the final 20 minutes the Eagles fought to retake the lead taking as many shots in the final 20 minutes as they had in the previous 70 but to no avail as Murphtannia held the onslaught off to record their second draw of the match.

George Murphy’s reaction was evident for all to see as he hugged Boland, Lewis Parry’s was more subdued during the post-match press conference unhappy labelling the relaxation of the team after they went two goals up as “simply unacceptable”. He also snapped at a reporter who asked him if he would be playing for the draw in the final group stage match against Juvencus “we always play for the win, no matter the circumstances, what a stupid question from a stupid reporter” drawing a shocked response for the attending press pack. A draw is all the Eagles need to go through to the second round, however, a win will guarantee top spot and potentially an easier game for the round of 32

by **Pluvia and the Saxean Isles** » Sun Feb 14, 2021 7:34 am

28 Greatstreet, Marienburg, Pluvia and the Saxean Isles

Prof. Charles Cunningham of the history department at the Royal Marienburg University had arrived at home. He was, after multiple days away, ready to talk to his wife about their recent spat and the importance of the diary. As he sat in his little car, all he could get on his grape-sized salary, he rehearsed what he was going to say. He knew what his argument would be, how he would respond to her objections. He was ready. But there was still more to read, after all...

The last diary entry saw William II's meeting with the Lord Ambassador, Lord Breckenridge. This was his second individual meeting with a member of the Praesidium. William II hoped that by meeting individually with each member of the Praesidium, he could convince them to support his plans. Together they could put up a united front, but individually, perhaps he could break them down. The issue with the Lord Ambassador was that he was a vacillator, unable to stand up for himself in council or present a strong front abroad. William II attacked him as weak, flattered him for his actual job, then preyed on his petty jealousies, promising to support him against his enemies in council. This won him over, making William II at least one (transactional) ally.

January 28, 1885

My next meeting with a member of the Praesidium was with the Lord Constable, the Lord Stromberg. I decided to meet with him next because his role and standing in the Praesidium are the lowest of all. The Lord Stromberg is not a kind man, nor is he a particularly intelligent one. But if he will do my bidding, then he can remain in council. If he will not, he will hopefully prove easiest to replace due to his low standing.

To prepare for this meeting, I went to our spymaster. Although this man is not a noble, and subordinate to the Lord Constable, I regard him as a much better man. His ability in intelligence gathering and his skill in using that intelligence are unparalleled. It is this kind of ability that our police officers need. I went to him for a twofold purpose: first, to gain his assistance in disguising myself once again and moving among the common people, unnoticed by the palace and my enemies, and second, to speak with him about joining the Praesidium as Lord Constable. He was quite happy to fulfill my first wish, but my second, he would not hear of it. He is not a noble, and therefore it would be a great breach of tradition to join that council. No amount of persuasion would convince him otherwise. So I asked him if he knew of a suitable noble, someone with a scientific mind, one that was open to using the police as crime-solvers and not just as skull-crackers. He recommended to me the Lord Hochheim, who was making advances in work of this kind. I disguised myself and went among the people to learn more about their conditions, then came to the Lord Hochheim's house in the city as a beggar. His servants let me in and fed me, and the Lord himself came to inquire about my well-being. It was at this moment that I revealed myself. He was greatly pleased at my skill, and we spoke at length before I asked him to join the Praesidium. He was hesitant, but I impressed upon him the need for his words and abilities on that great council, and he assented.

When I met with the Lord Constable, I quizzed him about the role of law enforcement officers and tried to get at what he knew, what he was gleaning from the officers who were his subordinates. He proved woefully inadequate on both counts. At that moment, I angrily informed him that he was a buffoon and that I was relieving him of his duties as Lord Constable. The man blustered and tried to convince me that I could not remove him. I told him that it was only tradition and the will of the king that kept him on the Praesidium, and tradition was not strong enough to override my will in this instance. He left politely enough, but he was displeased with me.

I have made this man an enemy. So be it. The Lord Hochheim will be a far superior Lord Constable, the Lord Ambassador will do my bidding, and the Lord Treasurer can be convinced through our long-standing ties. I am building my own Praesidium, and the anger of a few fools will do nothing to change that.

by **Garbelia** » Sun Feb 14, 2021 7:36 am

An anonymous tip-off today indicated that the 57-year-old Graintfjaller, Sigtryggur Brynjólfursson, is close to being appointed as the new manager of Garbelia. In his time as manager of the Graintfjall national team, the defensive-minded coach let them to Baptism of Fire title, World Cup qualifying playoffs, Cup of Harmony Ro32, and two Copa Rushmori Ro16s, but questions have been raised about the suitability of such a boss in an offensive team. He is also known to prefer strength and fitness over speed and skill, so questions have been raised over whether he'll play the talismanic teens Arthur Goodotter, and Otto Otter, or bring in more physical players, like Steve Ottoman.

The deal is reported to be in advanced stages, but worries have been voiced, with a team of fast, skilled players, that have fairly poor discipline and defence, however the GFA must be jumping for joy that a manager with such a fine pedigree wants to help take the Otters up a level. As of now, the team face a dead-rubber managerless. On the other hand, a win would be very important, with a possibly winnable tie perhaps saving them from a winless Cup of Harmony.

More updates are expected within the next 48 hours.

by **South Covello** » Sun Feb 14, 2021 8:45 am

Election Night in South Covello, SCNN Broadcast:

8:00 PM: "Good evening people and other sapient beings watching in South Covello and around the Multiverse, this is Election Night in South Covello on SCNN, I'm your host, Andy Blacksmith. Polls are now closed across South Covello and we should begin to get the first results soon for the Presidential runoff election. Although incumbent Luisa Benitez is heavily favored to beat crazy deranged rapper Tru-D, we are going to wait for results to come in before we make any sort of projection. However, Benitez was well ahead in all of our exit polls as well as the pre-election surveys, and Tru-D has gone on a meltdown recently, culminating with him mooning the crowd at his final campaign rally last night, so we do not seriously expect him to win."

8:14 PM: "First results come in, but a very small number, just 87 votes, and would you look at that? It's 44 for Tru-D and 43 for Luisa Benitez. And I want to stress this is extremely extremely early, they are saying 30 million or so people voted today and we have a total of 87 votes. But wait, I am just getting word that Tru-D, on the basis of these 87 votes, has already declared victory. He has posted a Twii saying "I DECLARE VICTORY! I AM THE NEXT AND FINAL PRESIDENT!" with a GIF of him dancing and throwing gold into the air. However, that is of course not true, Tru-D has not won, nobody has won yet, and just as we're saying that, we now got about 10,000 more votes in and Luisa Benitez is now way ahead, with about 89% to around 11% for Tru-D, so at this point that completely changes things. Still way too early to call, of course. President Benitez shouldn't be declaring victory either, and isn't."

8:23 PM: "We just got a bunch more votes, still less than 1% in though, and Benitez is now up 91% to 9% roughly. Huge margin for her, we don't want to be premature in calling it but you can make your own conclusions. We seem headed for a landslide victory for President Benitez."

8:34 PM: "Ladies and gentlemen, we thought this might come quick, and indeed it has. SCNN has now projected that Luisa Benitez has been re-elected President of South Covello. We now have about 500,000 votes which have come in, and Luisa Benitez is winning, as you can see, roughly 95.6% to Tru-D's 4.4%. Furthermore we can report that of the precincts that have reported, Tru-D only won a single one, the first one to report, which we are told is an elementary school in Babbitville, where Tru-D won by a single vote out of 87 cast. Benitez will serve a second term, becoming the first President of South Covello to be re-elected. Due to Constitutional term limits, she is ineligible to serve a third term after this one, but we all have four years to worry about that. Tru-D is defeated. I am told he is giving a speech now, so let's go live to that. President Benitez plans to speak after he is done. We do not know if Tru-D will be conceding or giving another long-winded screed rant crap, but let's go live. He is speaking from the roof of his 38 story mansion to an assembled crowd below.

Tru-D's Speech:

"Good evening, yinz! It's minz, Tru-D! They say I have lost! They lies! We won the election, 44 votes to 43, then they added more votes like the Cheaty Birds they are. President Benitez, or should I say former President Benitez, is a fucking Cheaty Bird! She lost, I won, I will be President, I will fight forever! And you know what? I have taken all the contents of my mansion up onto this roof and will begin throwing it off right now until they declare me the just and rightful President!"

Tru-D begins throwing objects off the roof of his 38 story mansion onto the crowd below. This includes his bed, his mattress, his TV, his desk, multiple kitchen tables, lots of food, glasses, and more. Everything except the food is made of solid gold, like everything in Tru-D's mansion, so it is quite heavy. People in the crowd are seriously injured and perhaps even killed by the falling objects. Tru-D continues to throw objects off his roof until someone calls the police and ambulance services to help. However, having received alarmed calls from people watching on TV, they are already on their way. As Tru-D is in the process of throwing one of his guest beds, also made of solid gold, off the roof of the mansion, he sees police below.

"Get away, Mr. Police Mans, or I will throw this solid gold bed on yinz and crush yinz to death. Yinz are trying to steal an election from minz, this has never happened before in the history of our great nation. Even Lord Almighty Gregory didn't try to steal an election. Are you worse than Lord Almighty Gregory?"

At this point, Tru-D throws the solid gold bed and mattress off the mansion roof, but the police have been expecting this, manage to escape, and manage to get into the elevator to take them up to the roof to arrest Tru-D for assaulting police officers, assaulting protesters, attempted murder of protesters (and possibly actual murder depending on whether the people hit with the mattresses and beds and stuff lived) and make it up to the roof where they sneak up behind Tru-D as he is ranting and tossing stuff onto the now empty ground outside his mansion, tackle him, and snap handcuffs on him, then take him down the elevator and away from his mansion.

SCNN Studios:

"Well, that was quite a bizarre and tragic ending to Tru-D's campaign. I am getting word that three people have died after being hit by falling objects from Tru-D's roof and other 29 are hospitalized in critical condition after either being hit by objects or trampled in the chaos. A further 128 are hospitalized as a precaution but stable and expected to live with minimal or no permanent injuries. Tru-D will surely be charged with numerous crimes for this. Meanwhile the results that have continued to come in confirm what we already knew, Luisa Benitez will serve a second term as President. It's also worth noting that Tru-D's speech was complete lies. He lost the election, he was ahead very early after a grand total of 87 votes were cast. Again, there were about 30 million votes cast. He lost. And he said Lord Almighty Gregory never stole an election. Well of course he didn't because he never allowed free and open elections like we have in our democratic nation today. Tru-D has seemed unhinged for a while and it seems this loss pushed him over the edge.

"President Benitez, for her part, thanked the voters for re-electing her but put out a written statement that she will not be giving a victory speech tonight in light of the tragedy that unfolded at Tru-D's mansion. Once again, in case you just tuned in, Luisa Benitez has been re-elected President of South Covello, and Tru-D has chosen to go out in flames, killing three people and injuring over a hundred others in a speech at his mansion rather than admit defeat. Just a tragic end to this election cycle."

by **Graintfjall** » Sun Feb 14, 2021 8:58 am

…and then you have Samantha Speer, who’s a woman. I think she’s mentioned being a woman. You might have heard the big, breaking news, she’s a woman. Oh, policies? Beliefs? Political principles? No no, you don’t understand, she’s a woman. That’s all we need to know. We have to vote for her because she’s a woman. This kind of political farce plays out time and time again, and anyone brave enough to mention that, hey, they have nothing against women but would like a political leader who’ll actually stand for something other than the right to wear high heels is branded a misogynist and a hate criminal by the feminist thought police. Paradoxically, it’s why it’s great to have another woman, Clark, getting into the race, as it’ll show up just how vacuous Speer’s empty identity politics campaign really is…

“If you don’t turn that prick off in the next five seconds I am going to get Hjörleifur to throw you and the television out of the window in whatever order he chooses,” threatened Christian Einvarðursson. The panicked AV tech glanced at the goalkeeper, considered his options. Then his gaze strayed over to Hjörleifur Reynarsson. His mind was quickly decided and in a flurry of reinserting and swapping over cables, Mr Karlsson’s charming visage blinked into extinction, to be replaced by fuzzy static and a winking ‘EXT: 2’ symbol.

“It’s not that I’m saying I agree with everything he says, just that, isn’t it good to have a diverse range of opinions in the media landscape?” Jason Þórhallursson muttered. Christian redirected Hjörleifur, and Jason quickly threw his hands up. “Anyway…!”

He stood up as the AV tech scuttled out, and placed a DVD into the drive. The fuzz was replaced by highlights of the previous night’s game at Coffs Harbour, showing Philip Cohen receiving a ball in an ocean of space and calmly slotting it past Björnólfur Ernestisson.

“OK guys, the reason we’ve gathered you here is to go over a couple elements of the plan that I think some of us are still a little unclear on,” Jason began, speaking slowly and clearly so that the defenders, defensive midfielders and goalkeepers gathered before him in the film room would be able to follow.

“Now, Álfar, do you remember what we’re trying to do?”

Álfar screwed up his brow. His brow belonged in a museum of ethnography, depicting a missing link, so the action made quite an impression. Beneath the shelf of bone, his face contorted with thought.

“Steal the Cup of Harmony for Kalle…”

“That’s right! Good.”

Álfar grinned. His grin also belonged less in a museum of ethnography than in a primate house.

“Please stop. Now, Hjörleifur. In order to steal the Cup of Harmony we need to get to the next round so we can find out where it’s being kept. There are too many games happening at once in the group stage, it’s too confusing. Once we’re down to the Round of Sixteen … no, stop. OK, once we’re down to the Round of Your Ten Fingers and Six of Álfar’s Fingers – got it? Good? OK. We’ll have a better idea what we’re doing with.” Jason glanced at the screen, which was showing Robert Powell, with plenty of time, line up his shot and fire it into the top of the net.

“Now. In order to get to the next round, we need to win. And in order to win we need to score… anyone?”

There were some confused mumbles.

“More?” ventured Álfar.

“Very good Álfar. We need to score more goals than the opponents do. So if they score four goals against us, we would need to score…”

This was, sadly, beyond them, even with Álfar and Hjörleifur’s combined finger-arithmetic.

“My bad, that was a tough one. We would need to score five goals. That’s more than four.”

This was advanced stuff so he gave them a couple of minutes to catch up.

“Scoring five goals is really hard.”

The highlights screen had switched over, and now showed Amanda Guttisdóttir, soaked in sweat and heaving, wearily managing to turn one final shot in past Louis Addison, before collapsing to the ground. Her teammates, too tired to celebrate exuberantly, vaguely waved their arms below shoulder level. Even the crowd looked utterly exhausted.

“Especially when it is hotter than fucking Mercury out there.” Jason’s voice was rising. Even in the evening, Northwest Kalactin offered perhaps the most unwelcoming environment possible for the inhabitants of a White Winter Queendom.

“So a really good way of helping us win would be to not let the opponents score four goals in the first place!” He was shouting now, as behind him on the screen his own image lunged, connecting with a header in a spectacular flying dive and burying the ball in the back of the net. “That way we might only need to score two or three, which is still pretty damn hard!”

The highlights had finished and the screen returned to static fuzz. In the silence, his harsh breathing could be heard, as his lungs recovered from the yelling match, and filled with air, ready for one last burst.

“So, please. If you want to help us. If you want to do something nice for your friend Kalle. If you’re on board with our plan. Please. Stop. Letting. Them. Score. So. MANY. FUCKING. GOALS!”

An embarrassed silence ensued.

“Any questions?”

The hand of every single person in front of him shot up.

“Any questions other than asking why Amanda is currently wearing a fursuit?”

All of the hands lowered.

by **Newmanistan** » Sun Feb 14, 2021 9:23 am

THE ROCKET REPORT

ADVANCEMENT CLINCHED, BUT MORE WORK TO DO

By Taylor Larson,

With a solid 2-0 win over Sharktail, Newmanistan was able to clinch their berth into the round of 32. That’s nice, but not why this team is playing in the Cup of Harmony. By now we have talked about what the expectations are for the sky blue as a favorite in the tournament to at least be one of the better teams involved in it. Eura is the favorite, we all know that, but Newmanistan is the second best team playing in the Northwest Kalactin half, and we would not see them if we continued to win games until the semifinal. As such, our fans are not going to be satisfied with anything less than making it that far. We are one of the teams that does not really want to be here, but a good showing can alleviate much of the disappointment.

Beating Sharktail, much like beating Garbelia, is not going to send much of a message to the rest of the world but it was another game in which the team was able to control for large portions of the match. Parnell Addington struck first for the team in the 12th minute, and it did seem as though the team got complacent for a little while. Sharktail got their best chances of the match between, let’s say, the 17th and 30th minutes, with the player simply known as Gaby getting the best opportunity as a 21st minute shot was targeted for the top left corner but Matthew Costner just got his fingertips there in time to knock it over the bar. That was the best save of the match for Costner, and of the Cup of Harmony thus far. Towards the end of the first half, things evened up a bit, but the Rockets were not able to extend their lead.

The early portion of the second half played out much like the end of the first, but as the minutes ticked away, Newmanistan began to outclass The Blue Predator, and would have the biggest bite of the match when Garrett Sarniak scored in the 64th. The Rockets squandered an opportunity to make it 3-0 in the 81st minute when Ryan Singletary was awarded a penalty. While the game has essentially been decided at that point, for the substitute who is often the second choice striker sub, the chance to get his name on the scoresheet was enormous. He beat the keeper, but did not beat the goalpost, as his shot clanged off the left post. It did not seem like a big deal, but with word getting out that Mavinet had annihilated Garbelia 6-1, it put them a goal ahead in overall goal differential. This would mean that if the team drew on MD3, Mavinet wins the group. Of course, with the tiebreakers the way they are, if the penalty was successful and were even on goal differential, the next tiebreaker is goals for, which The Water Buffaloes would also own.

The final matchday showdown against Mavinet, who are like us winning a Baptism of Fire with the numbers “2” and “7” in it. (We won 27, they won 72). But if you want another ironic reverse parallel between us and Mavinet, how about this: in the old days of One Big Island we were Cassadaigua’s western neighbor. Now with our nations using magical region moving technology and in different regions, Mavinet is Cassadaigua’s western neighbor. Now, we meet on the soccer field for the first time in a tournament hosted by Cassadaigua, but playing in their co-hosting partner, Northwest Kalactin. It would have been scripted better for us to be playing this first ever meeting in Cassadaigua, but we will not be in Rushmore nor Esportiva, but in Atlantian Oceania. Oh well, the story can’t always be written perfectly. Each team knows they will be on to the next round, so the game is to win the group.

Other than playing for pride and for ranking purposes, does it matter which of us wins Group B? In theory, winning the group means you would get a weaker first round matchup against the second place team from Group A, and not the group winner. But who is the better team in Group A? The hosts, Northwest Kalactin, ranked #42 are the pot 1 team. They, however, are not leading the group. That goes to Valladares, the pot 2 team, at 2-0-0. Valladares probably wins this group if they finish 2-0-1 and in a tie with Northwest Kalactin, but the possible 2-0-1 three way tie is probably why they have not officially clinched yet. Frestovenia is still alive here, too. It’s tough to say how Group A might play out right now, but you have to feel that if it is Valladares first and Northwest Kalactin second, is it really better to be playing the host nation in front of their energetic fans instead of Valladares?

I think you have to look at the potential path down the road as to why winning this group is more important than it seems at first glance. It’s not about the round of 32 matchup against the Group A side that we would hope to beat. If you lose there, nothing else matters and my continuing on with this scenario should not be interpreted as my thinking that we would waldo over a Group A team. But, let’s look at where Eura might end up. They are in Group E, and have clinched first in it, so you want to stay away from “E1” as long as possible. “E1” lines up earlier with the second place team in Group B before the first place team. So, for us not to see Eura until the semifinal, we have to win Group B. Other strong teams are in the mix here too, like Mercedini and Tequilo in the very strong Group F. The Squornshelan Remnant States have looked good so far, and our sky blue brethren, Krytenia, cannot be overlooked. Maybe we could meet Krytenia in the semifinal of this tournament, as after all that would be a good omen to make the final. The E-H half of this Northwest Kalactin half is stronger. Nations in Group C and D are capable but do not have the intimidation factor as some of the ones in E-H, ‘eh? Indeed, so that is why winning this group is important. Playing for pride is enough of a motivation, and going 3-0-0 will assert the Rockets as being a top non-Eura threat in the Cup of Harmony. We can do well here, and expected to make the round of 32. Now we hope that “27” tops “72”. Stacie Houston would approve of that. Another good omen with this game kicking off around the same time as the NSSCRA chase will begin in the main series?

by **Squornshelan Remnant States** » Sun Feb 14, 2021 9:58 am

Three Things
Salwan Mynhier

Advancement!
On the strength of Petrov's second goal of the tournament, and a winner from Vladcik, for the first time in quite a long while (four cycles to be precise), the Black-and-Reds will make an appearance in the knockout rounds of the Cup of Harmony. Let's take a moment to have a look back at that CoH 75 team to refresh our memories. The only player who was in the first team then who remains there now is Jzeovak Vladcik though at the time he was still with Lublova, and was about to start his mid-career slide that wouldn't end until he headed to Admiral in Savojarna. Rudi Dalso is very nearly there with him, but has been just edged out of a starting position for this tournament by Harkhan and Baste. Stovar Krieven was the backup goalkeeper, and still playing his club ball with Bishop. Iuri Takala, strange as it seems, was a reserve midfielder with just ten caps to his name at that time, and in competition with Danin Stolp for the chance to succeed the venerable Arlo Damot in the first team. Lavanya Naqvi was in more or less the same position she is now, though had yet to make her big move from Emerald Coast to Farfadillis. Kaalia Gerstlauer was the very last name included on the roster, and still in her awkward youth with Royals before the move to Blacklake brought out her best. Strange as it may seem, mainstays of the current team like Lyzolda Petrov, Walda and Valda Harkhan, and even current team captain Jirar Lomidan are nowhere to be found, even down on the reserve list. Oliwer Starosta didn't even have his citizenship yet back then, though he was already tearing up the Superleague with Damogran. That team, still managed by Bethany Donnell, advanced by winning their group, and upset Darmen in the second round before falling to Omerica (managed of course by none other than Anne-Sophie Groothuis) in the quarters.
So then, how does the current team stack up against the one from CoH 75? Well for starters, they're going to advance by winning their group after beating Krytenia, so that's one promising parallel. As is the case now, Krytenia were top seed, and the Confederacy second, though much closer in rank at that time, though unlike the defensive struggle we witnessed on matchday one, the matchday two showdown in CoH 75 was a shootout, ending 3-4 in favor of the Black-and-Reds by virtue of a late comeback by the Confederates and a disastrous own goal from Krytenia. In terms of personnell, the defense seems roughly comparable in terms of limiting attacks, but neither Reuter Storsjo nor Valda Harkhan can provide the kind of attacking support that Jinkzta Ulcviecel was capable of. In midfield it's a bit difficult to compare, with a significant formation shift having taken place. The commanding presence of Arlo Damot in the center also gives the edge here to the CoH75 team, though only just. Up front, the old team's coordination between a young Vladcik, and prime aged Zoban Ajao and Demkjo Jzvanic was impressive, but this team has never seen a striker like Petrov before. Starosta's form out right hasn't been the best he's capable of so far, but in this one area, I have to give the edge to the current team. Overall, the CoH 75 team was probably just a bit better, but not to the degree suggested by the difference in rank from then to today. I have little doubt that Groothuis will keep her side focused for the final match of the group stage, and the Black-and-Reds should pose a definite challenge for their second-round opponent, whoever might emerge from the chaos of Group H.
SCFA Announces new Kit Partner
As if there wasn't enough going on in the world of football, the SCFA announced today that it has inked a partnership deal that will make Qusma firm uni-q the official supplier for the Superleague. The announcement, accompanied by a reveal of new kit designs, was greeted with near universal acclaim across the Confederacy. As anyone who pays much attention to internationstatal politics will know, the nation of Qusmo has been gripped by an unconstitutional, authoritarian regime, which has turned the nation's military against its own citizens to maintain its hold on power. uni-q, like the Pug Xily'a, owes its existence to a trio of Qusmi'y: Ibilx-Irtix Ono, Karar-Falax Zev, & Otoln-Prant Ezi. Not simply a manufacturer of sporting attire and uniforms, uni-q's tagline "for the game that's more than a game" tells you everything you need to know. Signing a contract with uni-q constitutes far more than simply purchasing well-designed, well-made kits for the league. It is a statement of intent, a declaration of whose side the SCFA is on. It's a brave move in a world where all too often large companies and institutions shy away from taking any defined stance on such issues, out of fear of alienating portions of their customer base. It is refreshing, therefore, that the SCFA has made this decision, and that the response from around the Confederacy has been so overwhelmingly positive. I imagine it must be particularly gratifying for the eleven Qusma players in the SCFA league system, as well as the numerous Qusmi'y who have immigrated to the Confederacy in recent years.
My Kid Brother keeps Spamming my Email with Suggestions
And my parents won't shut up about posting these weird song lyrics he wrote. I don't even know what half of this crap means, but it seems like this is the only way to get my parents off my back:
To the tune of Got No Beard by The Longest Johns
Got No Kits

I once met a man in a pair of shorts
said he wanted to join in the NS Sports
But his rosters were just the pits, (the pits)
No shirts, no socks, it just gave me fits,
I imagine that his team were embarrassed to bits,
Cause you can't play footy if you've got no kits
Got no kits, you've got no kits,
You can't play footy if you've got no kits.
Got no kits, you've got no kits,
You can't play footy if you've got no kits.

I once met a woman with a strong accent,
She declared she would start her own tournament
But her plans didn't seem so great, (not great)
On how match results she would generate
She's not given us any details to date
And you can't play footy if you won't scorinate
Won't scorinate, you won't scorinate
You can't play footy if you won't scorinate
Won't scorinate, you won't scorinate
You can't play footy if you won't scorinate
and you got no kits.

I once met a lad with a snappy tie
He wrote quite a lot, was a very nice guy
But his prose didn't make me dance, (not a chance)
There was not much rhythm there was no romance
Without verse no one gave him a second glance
So you can't play footy if you don't write chants
Don't write chants, you don't write chants,
You can't play footy if you don't write chants.
Don't write chants, you don't write chants,
You can't play footy if you don't write chants,
And you won't scorinate,
And you've got no kits.

I once met a girl who was very drunk,
She hollered and yelled and she called me a punk.
All her posts were a potpourri, (pot-per-what?)
Of things that were of interest to nobody
Trust me, that's not a hyperbole
And you can't play footy if you can't RP.
Can't RP, you can't RP
You can't play footy if you can't RP.
Can't RP, you can't RP
You can't play footy if you can't RP,
And you don't write chants,
And you won't scorinate,
And you've got no kits.

I've met quite a few who are shiny and new,
Some weren't even born in 2002.
And I feel so proud I could burst, (just burst)
They've all been so great from the best to the worst
But I'm sad to say (I have nearly cursed)
That you can't play footy if you weren't here first.
Weren't here first, you weren't here first,
You can't play footy if you weren't here first.
Weren't here first, you weren't here first,
You can't play footy if you weren't here first,
And you can't RP,
And you don't write chants,
And you won't scorinate,
And you've got no kits.

But there's no reason good enough not to join us
So sing along with the very last chorus

Two, three, four
Got no kits, you've got no kits,
You can't play footy if you've got no kits.
Got no kits, you've got no kits,
You can't play footy if you've got no kits.
Got no kits, you've got no kits,
You can't play footy if you've got no kits.
Got no kits, you've got no kits,
You can't play footy if you've got no kits.
And you weren't here first,
And you can't RP,
And you don't write chants,
And you won't scorinate,
And you've got no kits.
OOC: For the record, not one line of this is intended to criticize any group or individual. Like the original, the song is meant to gently make fun of gatekeeping. The only bits that should be taken seriously are the ones about how pleased I was at how the NSS community was doing when I came back.

CoH Schedule and Results:

MD1: SRS 1-0 KRY @ Ballina Stadium (cap. 50,000), Ballina, NWK
MD2: LRN 1-2 SRS @ Ballina Stadium (cap. 50,000), Ballina, NWK
MD3: SRS  v  TRV @ Ballina Stadium (cap. 50,000), Ballina, NWK

SRS Qualifying Schedule and Results:

MD1  SWE 1-2 SRS @ First Coast Stadium (cap. 33,000), Auberlin, SWE
MD2  SRS 2-1 KRY @ Megabrantid Financial Field (cap. 69,245), Brantisvogan, Megabrantis, SRS
MD3  PFA 3-2 SRS @ Libira National Stadium (cap. 68,000), Fiskadaha City, PFA
MD4  SRS 1-0 CAR @ New Rudlit Arena (cap. 31,200), Rudlit, West Flania, SRS
MD5  WZA 2-3 SRS @ Edge Hill, Bradley, WZA
MD6  SRS 1-2 FFD @ Bridger Lane (cap. 72,406), Damogran, Algolia, SRS
MD7  GKI 2-3 SRS @ Stadia Capital (cap. 78,050), Beijing, Jing, GKI
MD8  SRS 2-0 BGJ @ Synesoft Arena (cap. 38,600), Syneca, Sivoliva, SRS
MD9  SNB 0-0 SRS @ [redacted]
MD10 SRS 0-1 SWE @ Reinallt Arena (cap. 41,230), Golgafrincham, Megabrantis, SRS
MD11 KRY 1-0 SRS @ Oxley Park, Emberton, KRY
MD12 SRS 2-2 PFA @ Slavnarzeczpospolitastadion (cap. 61,230), Lublova, Molvania, SRS
MD13 CAR 2-3 SRS @ [redacted]
MD14 SRS 7-1 WZA @ Olympiastad (cap. 47,550), Arkintoofle, Megabrantis, SRS
MD15 FFD 5-1 SRS @ [not sure, everything was on fire]
MD16 SRS 1-3 GKI @ Castle Street (cap. 57,300), Jaglan, Algolia, SRS
MD17 BGJ 1-4 SRS @ [redacted]
MD18 SRS 6-1 SNB @ Ralph Wilson Memorial Stadium (cap. 48,700), Han Dold City, Han Dold, SRS

by **Transvolcanic** » Sun Feb 14, 2021 10:17 am

Transvolcanic lost again, but made Krytenia suffer

Transvolcanic, again playing in the famous Cup of Harmony, a tournament for the people who didn’t qualify to the World Cup

This time they faced Krytenia, a very tough opponent, to be true

As expected, not much people were interested in seeing the Cup of Harmony, which has been taken by the team as a bit offensive, and though they were trying their best to clean their image against Lorrana, the team couldn’t do anything

During the first minutes, Transvolcanic played pretty offensive, but then who did take the advantage was Krytenia

During a corner, taken by Krytenia at the 17th minute, Joe Bielsa scored with a header, 1-0

Then we have to get all the way to the second time, 79th minute, Andrew Carsetti, after an assistance of Joe Bielsa, scored the 2-0

But two minutes later... Andrés Vassi, with an assistance from Marien Poszcesz, whom both made their first goal and assist in an official major tournament 2-1
The last minute... penalty for the Cats after a foul of Ross Okano, Andrés Vassi was going to score?
Noooooo! He used too much strength, just a bit above the goal, the match finishes, anda Krytenia wins

The team cannot qualify anymore, even if winning next match, they won’t qualify

News:
- A new chronic disease is discovered
- 10 places you should visit in the Angliania Region
- Fans lose faith in the national team

by **Saint-Domingues** » Sun Feb 14, 2021 10:31 am

Saint-Domingue 1–0 Hebitaka: Progression secured with second win
HT 0-0
Saint-Domingue have qualified for the Cup of Harmony's Round of 32 after Nico Pozo's goal gave the Avengers all three points and a second consecutive victory.

Having started in good fashion against Squidroidia, the team was in good spirits and played an exciting game, complete with plenty of eye-catching switches of play and some excellent centre-forward play from Pozo himself. The striker chested down an overhit pass from Josep Carpeña at the backpost and lashed past Ganesh Tinnu around the hour mark. It was a far cry from the last Dominguan meeting with Hebitaka, when Saint-Domingue put in a tame display and were easily beaten by the Hebitakans courtesy of a Ram Vijay penalty. At the time Canisbro was still struggling to see his team adapt to his system, whilst now he watching his team display their tactical flexibility in frequently changing formation and personnel whilst maintaining a high level of performance. The change from the early Canisbro days are quite stark.

Six points from six means that Saint-Domingue are now assured of a top two placing and will be in the next round. However, top spot is not secured yet. Their final game is against Omerica, who have put themselves in contention with a goal-studded 5-3 win over Squidroidia. A draw will be enough for the Avengers to top the group ahead of Omerica, but considering the gulf in rankings (Omerica are seen as the mutliverse's 40th-best side, compared to Saint-Domingue in 112) this may be the toughest challenge so far at the Cup of Harmony.

Knockout Considerations
Considering that both of the teams that progress from Group L will be facing off against teams from Group K, we can already be sure of which pool Saint-Domingue's next round opponents will come from, no matter how they do in their final group game. However, the question of just who they will be playing is less clear-cut. Whilst the top two for Group L seem already secured by this stage, with one team eliminated (Squidroidia) and another requiring results to go their way alongside a swing in goal-difference (Hebitaka), we cannot be fully sure of either of Group L's top two positions just yet.

The one team that will form a part of that top two, is the Bluecliff League. They have won both of their games are on six points, three ahead of both Kandorith and Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom. However, as those two teams play one another on the final day, both of them cannot eclipse Bluecliff's points tally. If one of the two wins the fixture and Bluecliff lose to already eliminated Saltstead, Bluecliff will be in second. However, considering the form of Bluecliff and Saltstead RTD believes this to be unlikely. Even a draw will give Bluecliff the top spot. For second place, it is harder to determine. A draw will see Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom progress on goals scored, but this is otherwise a real winner takes all clash.

If Saint-Domingue finish second: Bluecliff League
If Saint-Domingue finish first: Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom or Kandorith

The Avengers have already faced-off against Bluecliff League on two separate occasions, both at the Baptism of Fire. The Bluecliffians ultimately won both games on their way to the final. Could the two meet again? Or will Saint-Domingue get the required result versus Omerica and face a new foe? Find out tonight on RTD.
Lineups:
Deforest
Le Guen
Boleyn
Sauvage
Ahearn <- Pareja 65'
Charbonneau
Lacourse
Vignon <- Carpeña 57'
Palacio
Pozo
Tallier <- Delannoy 82'

Saint-Domingue: Pozo (61')
Hebitaka:
Venue: Ferguson Stadium, Rutland, Cassadaigua

by **Mercedini** » Sun Feb 14, 2021 11:32 am

79th Cup Of Harmony MD2 LIVE
Mercedini vs. Chartistan
@ Kempsey Centre - Kempsey, Northwest Kalactin

Good evening one and all and welcome back home to the Cup of Harmony group stages in, today we're back in Kempsey for the second match of this new campaign, which is anticipated to be a closely fought match against between one of the multiverse's seasoned veterans in the Cup of Harmony, and one of the new kids on the block. Chartistan hasn't been on the international circuit for a while, but they did enough in qualification to warrant a COH invite, giving them ample bonus experience to propel their fledgling team further forward. If you missed it, Mercedini begun their run in the 79th Cup of Harmony with a 3-0 win over the Gothanita Isles, that result, combined with Tequilo's win over Chartistan, means that the Golden Eagles could secure a spot in the Round of 32 with a win here today. Billic has stated he has prepared as much as he could for this match, to secure a safe guidance through to the knockouts, however we have seen that all prep could go down to the toilet against such a new team. The setting is certainly a grand one, and it's one we will see more of in the coming days, so let's see whether they can pull out another cracking performance in Northwest Kalactin, or whether it's back to the drawing board for Billic's men.

0' - Out come the teams into a cauldron of noise and fanfare, both sets of fans are ready for this match in their distinctive colours, but there are plenty of neutrals out in force to watch this Group F tie in Kempsey. Mercedini have a larger contingency this time with more natives travelling over to NK for this match, they will hope that Dini will be able to stay in Northwest Kalactin for a little longer at least. As the designated home side, Mercedini are in their familiar blue and black once again, repping the national colours, while Chartistan are in their home kit too. Billic has named another full strength side, seeming like he has taken his final chance with both hands. The new look team gelled well in their first match, so let's see whether they can continue their good form into this second match!

6' - (MRC 0-0 CHA) - Nothing really of mention early on, but Mercedini are registering early domination in terms of possession, hitting the right side of 70% in the opening five minutes, but that hasn't translated into any chances or territory just yet. The crowd is relatively quiet in the stadium thus far, but that's down to the neutrals because both sets of national fans are trying their best to make themselves heard. Chartistan haven't asserted themselves on the match just yet, although it's still early days in this match, 0-0.

11' - (MRC 0-0 CHA) - First chance of the game and it's gone to Chartistan as a matter of fact. Their captain and main striker, Olisa Rodgers, picked up the ball on the edge of the box and attempted to curl into the top corner, but Vorsini in the Mercedinian net was equal to the shot, and parried the ball over for the corner which was dealt with. It shows the quality of the Chartistan front line and acts as a warning signal to their opposition to be way of their shooting power. At the other end, Chillotov and Dostalok have been fairly mute in this game, and have yet to record a shot in this match so far. Chartistan have bridged the gap so far, could a shock be on the cards?

17' - (MRC 0-1 CHA) -

Early goal and one that Mercedini had been warned about, and they have paid the price for that with Chartistan going a goal up in under twenty minutes. It's Ritz Moms with the goal after Dini didn't clear a corner. Adult Royce whipped it in with pace and was tamely punched out by Vorsini. Moms was in the right place at the right time to poke the ball into the open net with the goalie retreating back to cover the angle. I could say that it has come against the run of play due to the possession, but it's only the team in purple which has threatened. The shock is on folks, it's 1-0 to Chartistan with well over 80 minutes of the match still to play here in Kempsey

24' - (MRC 0-1 CHA) - Following that goal, the team seems to have taken a bit of a knock as Chillotov and Dostalok are forced back into the midfield to get more action on the ball, some glum faces in the blue and black portion of the stadium, although it seems inevitable that Dini will facet a chance from all of this possession. In a team which has struggled in the final third thus far, it seems like Giorgio Gucci is the bright spark, and is beginning to make in roads versus his Chartistani counterpart. Time is beginning to tick down in this first half, and a goal is needed to keep the game interesting, but if the Golden Eagles can limit the number of chances going to other way, then they have a chance to equalise and go for a winner. Twenty-five minutes gone, and Chartistan still have the lead thanks to that Moms strike.

30' - (MRC 0-1 CHA) - We're just past the half hour mark and Dini have a chance to equalise via the penalty spot, Chillotov weaved his way into the box and attempted to lob the ball over to Gucci who was arriving at the time for a potential finish. However, the ball was blocked by the outstretched arm of Amphibia which was met with a quick whistle and a point to the spot. A yellow card added insult to injury, but it may have stopped an almost certain goal in the 2-on-2 counter attack. It looks as if Dostalok will pick up this one to bring the Golden Eagles back on terms. It's a lucky escape for the Pot 1 side, but you have to take them when you're given them.

31' - (MRC 1-1 CHA) -

Up he steps and up he scores! GOAL! Dostalok sends the keeper the wrong way as he coolly slots to his left hand side of the net for the equaliser. The Starling striker has finally proved his worth in this game after being relatively unseen throughout most of this first half. He does a knee-slide in front of the home fans, with their spirits now lifted because their team are on the board. Billic is up from the dugout and adjusting some of the players positions before the restart, this match now takes on a new perspective. Both teams have scored, both teams ideally need to win to further their progression, but with 15 mins to go it's 1-1!

39' - (MRC 1-1 CHA) - Time is running out for both side to make any further moves in this first half as Dini try to add to their tally while Chartistan are trying to hold out for the half time whistle. The midfield has been where most of the battles have been fought, and it is where the ball is now has Nymark fights with his counterpart for the ball, but he lays it off to Karlovic who can look up to spot a pass. Neither team have utilised their wingers that much since Mercedini found their equaliser from the spot. Not much added time probably, Dini look relatively comfortable with their performance at the first half comes to an end, it's just that the goals department has been lacking.

45' - (MRC 1-1 CHA) - No time to be added on for the end of the first half as Mercedini and Chartistan fight to a draw after 45. Chartistan seemed to have stunned the masses at the Kempsey Centre when they went ahead through a mix-up in the Mercedinian box. Moms stuck their leg out to send the ball into the net for a shock opener. Throughout the first half, Dini had the lion's share of possession, and that begun to show towards the end of the first forty-five. Dini were finally level after the half our mark thanks to converted penalty which came from a clumsy handball from the Chartistani right back. In the end, still plenty to play for. Half-time in Kempsey, it's Mercedini 1, Chartistan 1.

HALF TIME
Mercedini 1 - 1 Chartistan
Dostalok 30' (P) • Moms 17'

Well, well, well, who would have thought that. Chartistan are only the latest side to sneak up on Mercedini and make it less then comfortable for the top-tier side, it is only 1-1 so plenty of time for them to stake their case for the three points. Mercedini only mustered three shots on target throughout that whole first half, including that penalty which was converted. There seems to be no tactical changes from Billic to begin this second period, it seems he has faith that these players can see out the game. It is a precarious position, if I we're a betting I would like to think that the Golden Eagles are going to overcome their original deficit and see out the game in their favour. Dini will kick us off, kicking from right to left in Kempsey as the sun begins to fade.

48' - (MRC 1-1 CHA) - The wind is picking up in the stadium, which could cause some problems for both teams if they choose to opt for the aerial route. For now, Dini are controlling the passing play on the floor, as Billic only just emerges from the stadium's tunnel, with some of his coaching staff and some of the substitutes. That first half performance should be enough for Billic to keep an eye on this match, although previous Mercedinian sides have overcome previous scares in the past. The neutrals are trying to get behind the teams with some local songs, although a fair portion of the crowd seems less than enthused to say the least. Only a couple of minutes gone, it remains 1-1 for now.

54' - (MRC 2-1 CHA) -

GOAL! and Dini have completed the comeback in less than ten minutes of this second half, and it's Gucci who has capped off his terrific performance thus far with a goal, coming from another counter attack from a corner at the other end of the pitch. Vorsini hoofed the ball up the pitch which gave Karlovic, who was the most advanced player up the field, a chance to control the ball. He held up the ball versus the final man and gave a through ball through to Gucci who was sprinting up the pitch. There was a hint of offside in the play, but Gucci was before the half way line so was played on. The Cazadores player had acres of space and only had the goalkeeper to beat, but he lobbed the ball over the approaching goalkeeper and into the net for a 2-1 lead. Gucci's star is rising in the Mercedinian world, after seemingly dropping off the map following his move to Audioslavia. He has now been rediscovered by Billic, and it is a discovery that is paying dividends.

58' - (MRC 3-1 CHA) -

GOAL! where was this team in the first half. It seems like the Golden Eagles have found their clinical edge at the right time as they put clear daylight between themselves and Chartistan in this match. It's Dostalok with his second of the game, with Gucci continuing to pull strings in this game, providing the assist for their third after scoring the second. It was a piece of sustained pressure from the Golden Eagles, which resulted in a cross being whipped in with place by Gucci close to the by-line. The ball made it's way through a sea of bodies before meeting the slide of Dostalok who only needed to made of contact with the ball to bundle it into the net. Presic was there as an insurance policy, but he wasn't required and it was the Starling striker who netted his second and Dini's third of the game. Game won? Quite possibly, 3-1.

62' - (MRC 4-1 CHA) -

Goodness me, if the game wasn't won at 3-1, it could certainly be over at 4-1. It has been a devastating ten minute period for Mercedini as they run riot in Kempsey, three goals in eight minutes has put them in a commanding position to qualify for the Round of 32. This time it's Karlovic who slotted home from a rebound, although in retrospect it could have been anyone who took it in the end. Pushing for a way back into the game, Chartistan committed too many men forward, and so a break down in the midfield was pounced upon with four Mercedinian breathing down the necks of three Charistani defenders. Chillotov had the ball and decided to take a pop himself, and was parried away by Angel Alejandro. Their joy was short lived as the ball was collected by Karlovic who took a touch before firing low into the corner of the net. Dostalok and Presic were calling for it, but they were surplus to requirements as the Spartangrad midfielder added his name on a quickly expanding score sheet. It's 4-1 now, will we have any more before the end?

69' - (MRC 4-1 CHA) - Dini have the ball in the net again and did have a fifth on the board, but it's been ruled out by VAR for a foul in the build up. It was fairly similar as to how the last chance of the game was created about seven minutes ago. Nymark bundled over Tigger Splinter
and brilliantly floated a ball over the top for Chillotov to chase, the Lajuno striker hit it first time into the top corner for a supposed fifth. However, upon review, it seems like you can't bulldoze through a midfielder like you could in the past, and so the play was bought back for the infringement. There's no fifth goal, but it's the Mercedinians who are pushing for a cricket score in this one!

73' - (MRC 4-1 CHA) - Following that flurry of goals and fouls, the game seems to have cooled somewhat from the red hot action which kicked off this half, with the clock ticking down on an inevitable Mercedinian victory, which is weird to stay given the start to this match. Chartistan have the ball in the Mercedinian half and are looking to find a goal back and give them at least a little bit of life in this tournament. However, ever second that ticks away is slowly sucking the life out of the Chartistani challenge. Billic looks to be ordering his team back, and not to get too greedy.

82' - (MRC 4-1 CHA) - Chartistan hit the bar late in the day with Rogers pushing for a goal for their tally. Vorsini was beaten in the goal, he was thankful to see the ball catapult off the bar and out for a goal kick. Billic's tactics to hold back and see out the game has invited pressure and the odd chance, Chartistan are taking that opportunity with both hands but are yet to find the net thus far. Less than ten minutes to go, this could be the route through to the Round of 32 with a game to spare. It remains 4-1, Dini with seven goals in two games!

88' - (MRC 4-2 CHA) -

Well, well, well, it seems like Chartistan will have the last laugh in this game after all. They find themselves a consolation goal with minutes to go in this game to bring the score back to 4-2 and it's Rogers with the goal. It was simply a lofted ball from the aptly named Air Latte which found the unseen run of Rogers. It put the captain through on goal who took a touch round the goalkeeper before they slotted it home. Defensive frailties has come to the forefront again, but the attackers have bailed out the team once again. 4-2 as we head into added time.

90+3' - (MRC 4-2 CHA) - The referee blows his whistle for the end of what was a rather comfortable game in the end. Mercedini have been known to run up the scores against lesser opponents in the past, and they did that when put under pressure by the opening Chartistan goal. A Dostalok penalty levelled the score before half-time, before a devstating eight minute spell which saw Dostalok score his second, plus Karlovic and Gucci who got their names on the score sheet. 4-1 up at that point, Dini cruised down to third gear for the remainder of the match, keeping their opponents at bay. A fifth was disallowed, but it would ultimately be Chartistan who bookend the match with their two goals. It was a spirited performance from the nation ranked outside the Top 100, but they fall to Pot 1 Mercedini by four goals to two.

FULL TIME
Mercedini 4 - 2 Chartistan
Dostalok 30' (P), 58', Gucci 54', Karlovic 62' • Moms 17', Rogers 88'

...and so it's as we expected in Group F, with Tequilo and Mercedini fighting it out for the top spot in Group F. Both teams are already secured of their passage into the Round of 32, just think of it as a 'We-Don't-Want-To-Play-Eura Playoff' between these two nations. This is the third consecutive time that Dini and Tequilo have played each other in the Cup of Harmony group stage, with both previous games ending in a draw. Now, that would suit Dini by virtue of goal difference, but these two nations have more than just a group win to play for. We will be there for that match plus all of the reactions for the game and the knockout round matches. We hope you can join us for that, but from Kempsey, goodnight!

by **Flavovespia** » Sun Feb 14, 2021 12:53 pm

Goalless draw leaves Flavovespia on brink of early exit

Flavovespia failed to get a goal for the second game in the row, in a draw over Juvencus. Flavovespia no longer have control of their own destiny going into the final Matchday, and a group stage exit from the Cup of Harmony 79 looms large.

Flavovespia made just the one change from the squad who lost to Blouman Empire 2-0, Mark Paul came in to start in attack, replacing Ramon Martin. Juvencus had drawn 1-1 with Murphtannia in their first game, and thus came into this game also searching for a win to give themselves a good chance of qualifying to the knock out stages.

Chances to open the scoring on either side of the pitch seemed few and far between to begin with. Juvencus seemed to be playing under a lot of pressure, leading to mistakes here and there, a big cause of their attempted attacks failing to deliver. Flavovespia meanwhile, seemed to play like 11 individuals and not a team. Whilst fairly sound at the back, going forward there just seemed to be no coherence, too often an attacking ball forward seemed to be fired towards thin air. For both sets of fans in The Ballina Stadium in Northwest Kalactin, this was not a fine display of football.

Steven Hall was the first Flavovespian to come close. Maybe frustrated with the lack of touches in the box for a Flavovespian, he decided to unleash a long range shot to try and open the scoring. The ball curved and dipped, but agonisingly not quite enough, as it rattled the crossbar, and was hoofed away by Nicolò Bassi. A moment of excitement for those in yellow, but the players needed to show more to break the deadlock.

Juvencus had more chances in the first half overall, although they never quite came as close as Hall’s effort. David Clark was resolute in the anchor man role, disrupting attacks through the middle. Down the wings Juvencus were having a bit more joy, but that final ball into the box just wasn’t there a lot of the time. Whether Santo Silvestri was out of position, or the balls into him were inaccurate is up for debate, but his effort were rarely difficult for Aarif Muhammad to deal with. 0-0 it was at half-time, in a very dry game.

Hopes for more excitement in front of goal didn’t pan out very quickly in the second half. What both sides lacked in skill, they didn’t seem to lack in passion. Unfortunately that turned into some less than skilful challenges in defence. David Blythe took out Joaquim Martell with a very strong challenge down the wing. Although Blythe got a foot on the ball, he sent the Juven captain flying, and was maybe lucky to only see yellow, not red. Minutes later and Silvestri, attempting to get his side the lead, clattered into Aarif Muhammad in an aerial challenge as the Flavovespian keeper rose to claim a cross. Unintentional the foul was, but Silvestri found himself with Tony Gardner and Alexander May confronting him expressing their displeasure, followed shortly by a mass of crimson and yellow shirts wading in to get their two pence into the dispute.

As the minutes ticked on the game got more open and more frantic, but neither side seemed much closer to getting a decisive goal. Juvencus had passion and flair, and were beginning to find success with long balls forward. Their attacks were often thwarted however by a stubborn Flavovespian defence, who did seem perfectly content to concede fouls and yellow cards. Mauro De Casio was certainly not pleased on the touchline, looking agitated at the number of fouls and felt Flavovespia should’ve gotten a red. At the other end of the pitch, Steven Hall came close to seeing red, after being taken down late by Carlo Callejon, Hall leapt back up and got in the face of Callejon. Thankfully for Flavovespia, the captain didn’t actually make contact with the Juven defender, and so after a video referee review, no red card was banished.

For all of the passion and frantic football of the final minutes, neither side could fashion that that golden opportunity to take the lead. As the full-time whistle blew, the 0-0 result summed up a game where the talking points were definitely not about missed opportunities. The handshakes seem to come with gritted teeth, as the Flavovespians and Juvens hadn’t exactly made friends on the pitch. Mauro De Casio and Alan Young both walked down the tunnel, after the briefest of handshakes with a sense of dejection and resignation. A 3-3 draw between Blouman Empire and Murphtannia means both sides have a lot to do now to qualify for the knockout stages.

For Flavovespia, the permutations to qualify are simple. Win against Murphtannia, and hope that Juvencus don’t win. Any other result combination, and Flavovespia go home after the group stage. How much both the qualifiers and the Cup of Harmony can be blamed on the players, and how much can be blamed on Alan Young will be debated for a while, even if Flavovespia make the Round of 32. Nevertheless, it looks like the crucial match against Murphtannia may very well be the last match for Alan Young and some of the players for Flavovespia.

Match ratings:
Aarif Muhammad – 8 Maybe one of the few Flavovespians who did well, didn’t seem fazed at all this game, even after an aerial collision
David Lyons – 6 Improved defensively, but this time didn’t provide much going forward along the left flank.
Tony Gardner – 7 Kept a strong Juvencus attack at bay, and seemed resolute. A yellow card blighted his performance a little, along with getting into an argument.
Alexander May (<-> Ian Cohen 76’) – 6 A solid defensive display, if maybe a little bit clumsy towards the end leading to a yellow card. Unfortunately his argumentative side showed again.
David Blythe (<-> Ian Johnson 70’) – 5 A different referee would’ve sent him off. Struggled against his opposite number, leading to an aggressive challenge that could’ve easily been worse for him and Joaquim Martell
David Clark – 7 Looked decent defensively, would’ve hoped to have provided more in attack but made Juven attacks down the middle difficult.
Jonathan Feld – 5 Again just seemed to be a bit anonymous, and a part of why attacks down the left were poor. Has had a poor tournament by his standards.
James King – 6 Was a calm head amongst some of the more chaotic scenes on the pitch, but would’ve wanted to deliver more in attack.
Steven Hall – 6 Came closest of anyone to scoring, but performance was blighted by an unnecessary act of aggression that hardly set a good example as captain.
Scott Coleman – 5 Struggled for opportunities to score, but didn’t help the cause with relatively weak positioning.
Mark Paul (<-> Ramon Martin 70’) - 4 Just couldn’t get into the game or link up with Coleman. Couldn’t dribble through the defence, and was subbed off.

Subs:

Ian Johnson (<-> David Blythe 70’) – 5 Subbed on because Blythe was on a yellow and losing pace. Didn’t do anything bad, but hard to say he did anything good.
Ramon Martin (<-> Mark Paul 70’) – 6 Had one shot on goal that was decent, but relatively well saved. Did at least show more in 20 minutes than in his last game.
Ian Cohen (<-> Alexander May 76’) – 6 On for the booked Alexander May, Cohen at least avoided the book, and didn’t make any critical errors.

Cup of Harmony 79: Everything Thread

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Brynjólfursson tipped to be next Garbelia manager.

Bjørnsson’s Eleven Ch. 3: The Briefing

CoH 79 MD2

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