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

by **Schottia** » Mon Oct 05, 2015 3:43 am

Schottic Premier League Champions/Runners-up
2031-2032: Willox Street Pirates/Cornellians
2030-2031: Handon United/FC Soessch** (Schottic Football Conference)
2029-2030: Handon United/Cornellains** (Schottic Football Conference)
2028-2029: Handon United/Lammerton
2027-2028: Cornellians/Handon United
2026-2027: Handon United/Cornellians
2025-2026: Handon United/ Cornellians
2024-2025: Cornellians/ Port Sebastian
2023-2024: Cornellians/ Lammerton
2022-2023: Cornellians/ Lammerton
2021-2022: Cornellians/ Lammerton
2020-2021: Cornellians/ Port Sebastian
2019-20: Port Sebastian/ Handon United
2018-19: Cornellians FC/ Kings Park
2017-18: New Belfast Warriors/ Handon United*
2016-17: Port Sebastian/ Handon United**
2015-16: Handon United/ King's Park
2014-15: Handon United/ FC Soessch
2013-14: Handon United/ FC Soessch
2012-13: Handon United/ New Belfast Warriors
2011-12: King's Park/ Handon United
2010-11: New Belfast Warriors/ Port Sebastian
2009-10: FC Soessch/ Handon United
2008-09: Handon United/ Lammerton
2007-08: FC Soessch/ Marionville
2006-07: Handon United/ King's Park
2005-06: FC Soessch/ Handon United
2004-05: Handon United/ FC Soessch
2003-04: Handon United/ New Belfast Warriors
2002-04: Handon United/ Lammerton
2001-02: Port Sebastian/ FC Soessch
2000-01: Handon United/ Port Sebastian
1999-00: New Belfast Warriors/ Handon United
1998-99: FC Soessch/ Handon United
1997-98: Handon United/ FC Soessch
1996-97: New Belfast Warriors/ Port James Athletic
1995-96: New Belfast Warriors/ Handon United
1994-95: Handon United/ King's Park
1993-94: Lammerton/ Handon United
1992-93: FC Soessch/ Lammerton
1991-92: Port Sebastian/ Lammerton
1990-91: Handon United/ Port James Athletic
1989-90: New Belfast Warriors/ Handon United
1988-89: New Belfast Blues/ New Belfast Warriors
1987-88: New Belfast Blues/ FC Soessch
1986-87: Handon United/ Kings Park
1985-86: Port James Athletic/ Port Sebastian
1984-85: Handon United/ La Gorlions
1983-84: Lammerton/ New Belfast Blues
1982-83: Marionville/ Handon United
1981-82: La Gorlions/ Marionville
1980-81: FC Soessch/ Kings Park
1979-80: Kings Park/ Port Sebastian
1978-79: Handon United/ Port Sebastian
1977-78: Handon United/ Dundee
1976-77: Lammerton/ La Gorlions
1975-76: Lammerton/ Port James Athletic
1974-75: Lammerton/ Handon United
1973-74: Port Sebastian/ Lammerton
1972-73: Lammerton/ Port Sebastian
1971-72: Kings Park/ D'Itille
1970-71: Port Patrick United/ New Island

Schottic Sporting Achievements

Football/ Soccer

World Cup

WC 67: Did not enter
WC 68: Did not qualify (8th of 8 in group)
WC 69: Did not qualify (6th of 8 )
WC 70: Did not qualify (3rd of 8 )
WC 71: Did not qualify (4th of 8 )
WC 72: Did not qualify (3rd of 7)
WC 73: Group Stage (4th of 4)
WC 74: Group Stage (4th of 4)
WC 75: Did not qualify (3rd of 7)
WC 76: Did not qualify (3rd of 7)
WC 77: Quarterfinal
WC 78: 3rd Place
WC 79: Champions
WC 80: Round of Sixteen

Cup of Harmony

CoH 61: Group stage (4th of 4)
CoH 62: Group Stage (3rd of 4)
CoH 63: Group Stage (3rd of 4)
CoH 64: Ro16
CoH 68: Runner-up (Co-Hosts)

Copa Rushmori:
CR XXXII: Quarterfinal
CR XXXIII: 3rd Place[/background]

Independent Associations Cup
IAC I: Champions
IAC II: Runner-up (Co-Hosts)
IAC III: Champions
IAC IV: Quarterfinal

Tyran Cup (Regional Tournament)

TC 1: Runner-up

Di Bradini Cup (U-21 World Cup)

DBC 32: Ro16
DBC 33: Champions
DBC 34: Tournament was cancelled
DBC 35: 3rd Place
DBC 36: Quarterfinal
DBC 37: Ro16
DBC 38: Group Stage (3rd of 4)
DBC 39: Group Stage (3rd of 4)
DBC 40: 3rd Place
DBC 41: Group Stage (3rd of 4)
DBC 42: Ro16

Olympics (U-23)

IX: Men (Quarterfinal) Women (Quarterfinal)
X: Men (Third in group) Women (Second in group)
XII: Men (Semi-final) Women (Runners-up)

Sporting World Cup (U-18)

U18 I: Quarterfinal
U18 II: Quarterfinal
U18 III: Did not enter

Under 15 World Cup

U15 8: Ro16
U15 9: Champions (Hosts)

Gridiron Football

Baptism of Iron XVII: 3rd place | World Bowl XXV: Did not Qualify
World Bowl XXVI: Round of sixteen
World Bowl XXVII: Round of Sixteen
World Bowl XXVIII: Champions
World Bowl XXIV: Quarterfinal
World Bowl XXX: 3rd Place
World Bowl XXXI: Runner-up

Nation States Tennis Tour

Tour titles: Cityscapes Open (Doubles) - Westfelt/Gates | Nassau Bay Open (Doubles) - Westfelt/Gates | Whitehaven Open (Singles) Catherine Krumins

International Tennis Trophy II: Champions

::News wire index::
Season one final table

*Posted on regional news thread.
**Results are only for historical context.

by **Schottia** » Tue Oct 06, 2015 5:17 am

Schottic Premier League

Preview

Schottia's most famous side Handon United have been crowned Champions nine times in the last fifteen years. In terms so support and finance they have been little rivalled in the SPL and have always had their pick of the leagues best players. After narrowly losing out to Port Sebastian and New Belfast Warriors respectively, for the last two years, they will be keen to make amends this time round. With a host of Schottic internationalists in their ranks, they will be there or there about come the end of the season. Their Under-18s side also won the Horhalne Internationa Youth Tournament in Semarland, defeating Barbury Town in the final, so expect to see a few of these youngster feature over the course of the season. This current squad is far from the best United have ever fielded, but with strong experienced players in every position, they will take some beating.

Star Player: Gaston Avelione | Rising Star: Aya Bernman

Prediction: 1st. We will need to see what Cornellians are capable of, and there will be a challange from the likes of Soessch, Port Sebastian, and the Warriors, but United are most Bookies' pick.

The biggest side haling from Schottia's North Island, FC Soessch bring with them a large support. Their mangers Jurgen Peters, who is known for a measured approach the game, takes very few risks and makes very few mistakes, meaning the side are consistent finishers. Bolstered by the signing of DBC 33 winner Chris Dickson, and Till Ümann's return from injury, they will be hoping to do better than last season's third place finish.

Star Player: Konstantin Holstad (Polar Islandstates) | Rising Star: Till Ümann

Prediction: 4th. Should gain a first taste of UICA football, but Cornellians will muscle ahead of them.

Forming the other half of the big Handon derby with Handon United, theirs is a rivalry which has continued for over 100 years. The Champions of two years ago are seen very much as the working man's team in the city, and have always had this gritty image. After saying goodbye to players like Gary Corsie and Mark Allen the side have had to do some rebuilding work, but they will be one to watch this season. With the top four this year competing in the UICA, this will be a minimum expectation placed on manger Conner Watts. In spite of the of the recent exodus, Porty still have a formidable squad, with one of the best midfields in the league.

Star Player: Emeline Millet (Ko-oren) | Rising Star: Joey Bia

Prediction: 5th. Not enough improvment on last season.

The reigning champions, winning their first title in fifteen years are New Belfast Warriors. A victim of their own success, they have seen Jon Fotan, Elisa Rivera, and manager Jane Gullie all head for the exit door over the last couple of seasons. New manager Jock Sonny, will be hoping he can do enough to get one over his former charges Cornellians and keep the momentum going as the side look to retain the title. With Craig O'Maramy and Ivan Archic still on the books, Warriors are a devastating side in attack, and the signing of Lammerton midfielder Kris Scott is potentially pivotal. Sonny's work with Cornellians in the MPL, and winning the DBC Should earn him some respect, and he will be keen to take on from where Gullie left off.

Star Player: Ivan Archic (Nekulturnya) | Rising Star: Jack Brier.

Prediction: 3rd. Holding on to the title will be hard, but not out of the question.

Kings park are a side in the difficult position of having punched above their weight for far too long. Former midfielder Eric Desmond is promoted from player to boss, in an attempt to reverse a worrying trend of finishing well down the league. They are the smallest of the main Handon sides, but they do have some quality players capable of doing damage. Darren O'Brian is a Schottic internationalist, and Alan Doolan is a twenty goal a season striker up front. They have also boosted their chances with the capture of highly rated midfielder Erin Braden from the Woman's Super-League. The Royals fans would very much like to see a top four push, but mid table is more likely.

Star Player: Darren O'Brian | Rising Star: Erin Braden

Prediction: 9th. Not quite good enough, they'll need time to rebuild the squad.

Danu Parc is the Lions' fortress. Nestled high in the North Island Mountains, the side from the capital of Schottia's French Speaking Region have a fantastic home record. The advantage of training at altitude, coupled with some very talented players makes them a good outside bet for a top four place. With the likes of former Cosumar DBC squad call-up Fredrick Houben, along with Jago Avelione, and Davy Ellen in attack, they will pick up their share of points this year.

Star Player: Fredrick Houben (Cosumar) | Rising Star: Christy Snell

Prediction: 6th. Best of the rest so to speak, but they might surprise a few people.

Another big side who have experienced something of a talent purge of late. The Old Boys finished fifth last season after the sale of Larry Watt and Lachlan Frazer was tempered slightly by the signing of Gary Corsie on loan. The will have it all to do if they want to repeat that feat, and with the inclusion of Cornellians in the league, and the inability to replace Corsie, it could be just too much to ask.

Star Player: David Daller | Rising Star: Michael Maxwell

Prediction: 7th. We can only see the Marionville slipping down the table.

With a little bit of luck Athletic could be up there at the sharp end, without it they are firmly mid-table. They have good players in every position, but they've got no one whom you could point to as a game changer. Playing in the west of the country they are the only big team in their area and have therefore always had a good following.

Star Player: Francis Keelinan | Rising Star: Alan Pertson

Prediction: 8th. A respectable finish, but a side of their size should be looking for better.

The little team from the Belker Region have a bustling support, who always turn out in numbers to support the local side. More than just plucky underdogs, the side feature the likes of Schottic caps Chirs Jack, Robert Morris and Steve McAlly. In addition Polaaskan youngster Palle Ellsmere is a prodigious talent in the midfield. They have finished highly in the past, but in truth it will take a lot for them to get one over the sides ahead of them.

Star Player: Chris Jack | Rising Star: Palle Ellsmere (Polaaskan)

Prediction: 11th: They can definitely go toe to toe with the chasing pack, but they will maybe just fall short.

A solid side with good players throughout the starting eleven, but for some reason they always seem to fail when it comes to mounting a title challenge. Right up their in terms of support, the Hornets play in the heart of the country in the state of the art City Ground, which they share with rivals Lammerton City. It will be interesting to see how they fair this year after forward John McCormack made a big splash helping Schottia to third in the DBC 35.

Star Player: John Cooper | Rising Star: John McCormack

Prediction: 10th. Not much in this one, might be as high as 6th, or as low as 12th.

Stayed up last season by the skin of their teeth, and it will take a big effort to do the same again. Try as you might, it is impossible to predict where the results are going to come for this team who really needed to have added more in the window. Their small legion of fans are fiercely passionate and have something of a reputation for violence, giving the club a generally bad image. They must look at Kim Coultan signing for Crawford City for $14 million and weep, considering they sold her to Jottnar Kallsmudden for a couple of thousand.

Star Player: James Berkeley (Darvale) | Rising Star: Barry Drite

Prediction 19th. A long, hard, season awaits.

For a small side, Hillstreet did outstandingly well last season. Much of their success was down to striker Nik Konstidious however, who has subsequently left to join up with Handon United. This has put the side in the very difficult position of needing to find goals from somewhere. It's going to be hard, and it's going to be bottom half of the table, but with the battling Kevin Morton in midfield, you feel there is some hope for them.

Star Player: Kevin Morton | Rising Star: Jak Leavie (Port Christopher)

Prediction: 15th. They will stay up... Probabaly.

So much for D'Itille is reliant on teen midfielder Caitlin L'Attue, a massive player for the Schottic U-21s. She is the by far the best player the small town club have produced in decades, and they have somehow managed to keep a hold of her. For all their failings the side do play some attractive football and they may pull off the odd shock here or there. Barring and injury to L'Attue, they will be able to look for a mid table finish.

Star Player: Caitlin L'Attue | Rising Star: Luke Corsby

Prediction: 12th. They'll need to watch their backs, but top of the bottom half is not out of the question.

One of the clubs from Schottia's second city Soessch, VB are a not really anything special. One of those clubs who set up every season with the goal of staying in the league and nothing else, they can be a little painful to watch at times. Former Schottic cap Walter Queen is a great shot stopper and sees plenty of the action between the sticks.

Star Player: Walter Queen | Rising Star: James Glewis

18th. It might be regional football next season for this side.

New Belfast Blues have always been the poorer relation in the city, having forever played second fiddle to the Warriors. They are a permanent fixture in the top division, and are one of only three sides which have never been relegated, despite going close a fair few times. They always struggle to really mount an assault on the top of the table, and have found themselves in the bottom half more often than not.

Star Player: David Millar | Rising Star: Sam Saxon

Prediction: 14th

Cornellians were set up four years ago to compete for Schottia in the Multivers Premier League. When the tournament failed to run last season, The Eagles were allowed to enter the Schottic domestic system, starting out in Regional Division B. This wasn't without some controversy as the side stormed the league winning promotion to the top flight. While many have argued that the two seasons of sponsorship they have received gives them an unfair advantage, organisers had little choice as they could hardly see an 80,000 seater stadium mothballed and a huge coaching and playing staff made redundant. Finishing second in their first MPL season, and picking up the cup as they finished third the year after, Cornellian are undoubtedly one of the best sides in the world. With former Cosumarite captain Alexander Pearce now at the helm, and a world-class striker in Eloisa Purinton, they will be expecting to be in the title race this season. One of the only question marks hanging over them will be how long they can keep together a squad of that size and standard with their current budget.

Star Player: Eloisa Purinton (Gloriax) | Rising Star: Tsumugi Narita (Kirisaki)

Prediction: 2nd. They may find adjusting to SPL life a little harder than some expect.

Granton Vale won their regional division to gain promotion last season, and are a gritty tough tackling side. They may have sold star midfielder Aaron Marcie to Lammerton, but they should still have enough bite about them to stay up. Dave Doonen and Tommy Wilson are a pair of wily old foxes in the centre of the park, and Jack Hobbs has been capped at under-18 level.

Star Player: Tommy Wilson | Rising star: Jack Hobs

Prediction: 13th. Should have a good season back in the top flight.

Lammerton City have always struggled under the shadow of their arch rivals Lammerton, whom they share a stadium with. Despite a huge drop in attendances, their manager Rodger Green has always kept their heads above water and the have a bit of quality about them. No one thinks this will be anything other than a tough struggle for the Princes, but the addition of Shalumite right back Thomas Carmichael gives them some hope.

Star Player: Karen Seywel | Rising Star: Ikas Nike

Prediction: 16th. Yet again this team will have the spark they need to stay up.

Another promoted side, the Seagulls will have a huge up hill task if they want to achieve anything this season. Key for the New Island side will be their home form, if they can pick up some wins in South Berwick, things might look brighter for them.

Star Player: Scott Vincent | Rising Star: Walter Seenin

Prediction: 17th. One of the teams who need to improve a lot in order to stay up.

Not a patch on the once proud Stalker Bay side of old, it surprised a lot of people when they came up last season. It is almost impossible to see anything other than relegation for The Last Stand, who lack quality in almost every department.

Star Player: Ian Todd | Rising Star: Lia Galbraith

Prediction: 20th. Only a miracle will stop them finishing rock-bottom.

OOC: Other than those playing for Cornellians, there aren't many overseas players in the league at present. Most of them were signed a few seasons back with the best of intentions, I just never got round to RPing them much. If anyone notices any mistakes in terms of age etc, then just let me know and I'll change it.

by **Schottia** » Wed Oct 07, 2015 4:41 am

Matchday One - Twelve

There are not many curtain raisers that can compete with a 5-5 scorline, which we saw in the Cornellians, Kings Park encounter. Both teams had a lot to prove this season for very different reasons, and this will go some way towards showing their doubters that they can play some good football. Gloriaxian skipper Eloisa Purinton scored a double in her first game in the SPL, and there were also goals for Mark Kelman, Daniel Cleopas, and Triffid Ramsey as the Eagles opened up a 5-3 lead at one point. However the Royals were their match, and goals from Alan Doolan (2), Erin Braden, Darren O'Brian, Felix Scholl, won the Handon side a share of the points.

Buoyed with confidence both side struck on from here, and by firmly established themselves at the top of the table. Kings Park had been little fancied at the start of the season, but it seemed now manager Eric Desmond was able to get something out of the players.

While Cornellians and Kings Park, along with Port Sebastian, were making the early pace, by match day twelve, some of the other top sides were already struggling. Tournament favourites Handon United and reigning champions New Belfast Warriors were down in fifth and sixth respectively, already seven points off the pace. In such a tight division, a gap of that size is already potentially fatal to a side's championship hopes. There was no doubting that The Warriors were missing playmaker Elisa Rivera, having sold the Port Christopher international to Marinos Thimpodopoulos Ladies before the start of the season. That combined with the change in management had meant that the side were slower out of the blocks than they would have liked to have been.

The middle of the table had a much more familiar feel to it with La Gorlions, Marionville and Hollin all going strong. As expected The Lions were pushing the top sides hard, with the experienced midfield duo of Fredrick Houben and Thomas Guenter proving their worth, at this point the side were just a win off of fourth place. Marionville were doing far better than expected, and with no investment in their playing squad, they were maintaining their form of last year.

As expected DBC stars Caitlin L'Attue and John McCormack were both performing well for their respective clubs, straddling the top and bottom half of the table. Despite, one point separating them in the table, D'Itille and Lammerton had very different sets of expectation this season and the former would have been considerably happy with their lot.

Down at the bottom Berwick United and AVB were in serious danger of getting cast adrift. One point from twelve games for Berwick just isn't good enough if they want to stay in the division.

Monthly Awards:

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cornellians            12    9   2   1    26   16  +10    29
 2 Kings Park             12    8   3   1    39   19  +20    27
 3 Port Sebastian         12    7   5   0    31   17  +14    26
 4 FC Soessch             12    8   0   4    19   11   +8    24
 5 Handon United          12    6   4   2    22   12  +10    22
 6 New Belfast Warriors   12    6   4   2    27   19   +8    22
 7 La Gorlions            12    7   1   4    21   14   +7    22
 8 Marionville            12    6   3   3    22   16   +6    21
 9 Hollin                 12    6   2   4    22   20   +2    20
10 Lammerton              12    5   4   3    14    9   +5    19
11 D'Itille               12    5   3   4    22   21   +1    18
12 Port James Athletic    12    5   2   5    22   19   +3    17
13 Hillstreet             12    5   0   7    17   25   −8    15
14 Granton Vale           12    3   3   6     3   12   −9    12
15 Lammerton City         12    2   5   5     9   17   −8    11
16 Dundee                 12    3   1   8     9   24  −15    10
17 New Belfast Blues      12    2   2   8     8   16   −8     8
18 Stalker Bay            12    2   1   9     3   20  −17     7
19 Allous VB              12    0   4   8     2   13  −11     4
20 Berwick United         12    0   1  11     6   24  −18     1

Schottic Cup -- Round of 32

Coldstream Farmers Union 3–3 La Gorlions (3–5 AET)
Cornellians 3–4 Hillstreet
Allous VB 1–0 Dundee
Port Patrick United 3–3 D'Itille (3–3 AET) (6–7 pen.)
Bridge of Hawick 0–1 Oakpark Celtic
Central Stars 0–2 Hollin
Port James Athletic 5–1 Soessch 1990
Handon North 1–1 New Belfast Blues (2-1 AET)
Marionville 0–1 New Belfast Warriors
Granton Vale 3–1 Lammerton City
Stalker Bay 0–1 Handon United
Lammerton 1–2 FC Soessch
Kings Park 4–2 Regional Development Side D
Herman Park 0–1 Regional Development Side A

Round of 16

Port Sebastian 2–3 Hollin
D'Itille 1–0 Döllar
Allous VB 2–0 Handon North
Port James Athletic 1–3 Handon United
Granton Vale 0–1 FC Soessch
Regional Development Side A 0–2 Kings Park
Herman Park 1–1 Oakpark Celtic (2–1 AET)
La Gorlions 2–2 New Belfast Warriors (2–4 AET)
Berwick United 0–1 Döllar
Macusia 1–1 Port Sebastian (1–2 AET)

by **Schottia** » Wed Oct 07, 2015 12:11 pm

Matchday Thirteen - Twenty five

As the league begins to reach its critical phase, things could not be much tighter at the top of the SPL. Despite having enough quality in their reserves to field a second team, probably capable of a top half finish, Cornellian have found things tougher than expected. After making a promising start to their maiden Premier League since switching from the MPL, their galaxy of stars have began to pale somewhat, seeing the side slip out of the top four. Kings Park on the other hand have had no such trouble, surprising everyone by keeping their strong start to the season going. 20-year-old midfielder Erin Braden has provided a breath of fresh air in the centre of the park, joining the impressive looking midfield of Darren O'Brain, Felix Scholl and Jack Halls. Up front, Alan Doolan is as deadly as ever, a true poacher if ever there was one.

Keeping pace with the Royals, only one point behind them are champions of two years ago, Port Sebastian. The side from north Handon look as dangerous as ever, and with the likes of Ko-oren playmaker Emeline Millet and Joey Bia in the squad, they can strike teams quickly and do a lot of damage. Much had been made of Handon United's poor start to the season, but with some good results including a show stopping 5-0 win over Cornellians, Neil Scarton's side are now keeping pace. Nik Konstidios has began to settle in the attack and looks much more like the player whom they signed from Hillstreet last term. Also with Aya Bernman and Deek Rotter, they appear to have unearthed a couple of fantast youngsters, proving that the United youth system is very much alive and kicking.

Elsewhere, Lammerton have made something of a charge up the table, fuelled largely by the goals of the two Johns, Cooper and McCormack. Not since the days when an 18-year-old Eoin Killanen graced the turf of the City Ground have the Hornets had such a promising player as John McCormack on their books.

Other teams going well are FC Soessch, and La Gorlions, who occupy third and fourth. As one would expect, Jurgen Peters' Soessch side are right in the mix as usual. Bruno Schwartz upfront, supported by Polar Islander Konstantin Holstad and Till Ümann, is as strong an attack as any team in the league and not to be taken lightly. The Lions by contrast have been making good use of home advantage, the masters of grinding out results through a combination of hard work and technical ability.

At the other end of the table, the bottom three are beginning to sink without a trace, as it looks like being a straight fight between Dundee, Granton Vale, and NBB to avoid the other drop spot. Looking at current form, you would fancy it to be Dundee going down, a team you feel will just fall short, going back down to the regional divisions.

Monthly Awards:

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Kings Park             25   15   8   2    74   40  +34    53
 2 Port Sebastian         25   15   7   3    57   36  +21    52
 3 FC Soessch             25   15   4   6    39   19  +20    49
 4 La Gorlions            25   15   4   6    45   26  +19    49
 5 Cornellians            25   15   4   6    48   37  +11    49
 6 Handon United          25   13   8   4    38   15  +23    47
 7 Lammerton              25   14   5   6    33   22  +11    47
 8 New Belfast Warriors   25   13   5   7    54   36  +18    44
 9 Marionville            25   12   6   7    43   34   +9    42
10 D'Itille               25   12   5   8    49   40   +9    41
11 Port James Athletic    25   10   6   9    38   31   +7    36
12 Lammerton City         25    8   8   9    25   32   −7    32
13 Hollin                 25    9   5  11    39   48   −9    32
14 Hillstreet             25    8   4  13    38   51  −13    28
15 Granton Vale           25    6   5  14    15   24   −9    23
16 New Belfast Blues      25    6   5  14    25   43  −18    23
17 Dundee                 25    6   4  15    16   39  −23    22
18 Allous VB              25    2   6  17    12   36  −24    12
19 Berwick United         25    2   3  20    18   52  −34     9
20 Stalker Bay            25    2   2  21     3   48  −45     8

Schottic Cup -- Quarterfinals

Herman Park 3–4 New Belfast Warriors
D'Itille 3–2 Handon United
Kings Park 4–2 Hollin
Allous VB 1–0 FC Soessch

-- Semi-finals

Allous VB 0–1 Kings Park
D'Itille 1–3 New Belfast Warriors

by **Schottia** » Thu Oct 08, 2015 2:24 pm

Matchday Twenty six - Thirty eight

Kings Park went into the final match of the season knowing that they had to win at all costs, and hope the Alexander Pearce's Cornellians side lost at home to Granton Vale. It was a tall order to start with, and after drawing with New Belfast Warriors, the Eagles result at Lochend made no difference at the end of the day. Cornellians lifted the title in their first season in the SPL following a switch from MPL football two seasons ago. Goals from Cosmin Dobrescu and Tsumugi Narita, in the second half were enough to cancel out Jack Hobbs' early strike. The win will have been eagerly awaited, with the side losing out on the MPL title on the last day of the season two year in a row. The challenge will no doubt come next year however, as Pearce has already been told that he needs to drastically cut is squad size.

Kings Park on the other hand will of course be disappointed, but for a side not much fancied to this year, second place would have been more than they could have hoped for pre season. Also, with the Schottic FA finally relaxing their stance on UICA competition, it gives the side the exciting prospect of international football to look forward to. Like Cornellians they will face a tough task next year, as few sides will be caught off guard by their attacking play the same way they were this season.

A little off the pace in third, FC Soessch will be reasonably happy with a solid performance. Konstantin Holstad (2), Gerhart Bitter, and Chris Okywä, all scored in an impressive 4-0 win over Port James Athletic, as the result helped them leapfrog Lammerton. The Hornets were pushed down into fourth after goals from Palle Ellsmere and Chris Jack gave their opponents Hollin a share of the points, when John Cooper and Billy Small had initially given them the lead. All the same, fourth is a massive achievement for Lammerton, and one of their highest finishes in years.

Handon United will be bitterly disappointed to have finished fifth, and their city rivals Port Sebastian even more so with their eighth place. Both sides are used to being up at the sharp end of the table and will now have to go back to the drawing board and take stock. For United it will be a fresh approach next season, whichever way you look at it, after the board have announced they have parted company with Neil Scarton after six seasons in charge; the club are now looking for a new manager for next season.

Worst of all however, was the misery endured by The Warriors' fans, as last years champions slumped to ninth in the table. New manager Jock Sonny will be wondering if he had done the right thing by moving from Cornellians, as he had to watch his former team lift the title. Winning the Schottic Cup may have been enough to keep the worst of the fan pressure off his back, but he will need to invest in the side during the summer. Perhaps he will be hoping to bring a few of his former players in on the cheep as Cornellians look to reduce their wage bill.

The battle at the other end of the table was pretty much decided for some time: some would argue before a ball was even kicked this season. Dundee, and Allous VB, join newly promoted sides Berwick United, and Stalker Bay, in the trip back down to the regional divisions.

Monthly Awards:

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cornellians            38   26   5   7    78   53  +25    83 Champions Cup
 2 Kings Park             38   23  10   5   108   62  +46    79 Globe Cup
 3 FC Soessch             38   22   7   9    59   30  +29    73 Globe Cup 
 4 Lammerton              38   22   7   9    60   38  +22    73 Globe Cup 
 5 Handon United          38   20  11   7    56   25  +31    71
 6 Marionville            38   21   8   9    72   50  +22    71
 7 La Gorlions            38   20   9   9    74   47  +27    69
 8 Port Sebastian         38   20   8  10    85   66  +19    68
 9 New Belfast Warriors   38   19   9  10    76   48  +28    66 Cygnus Cup 
10 D'Itille               38   16   7  15    76   67   +9    55
11 Lammerton City         38   14  12  12    45   48   −3    54
12 Hollin                 38   15   9  14    68   73   −5    54
13 Port James Athletic    38   14   8  16    57   55   +2    50
14 New Belfast Blues      38   12   8  18    51   63  −12    44
15 Hillstreet             38   13   4  21    54   77  −23    43
16 Granton Vale           38    8  10  20    26   45  −19    34
17 Dundee                 38    7   7  24    25   64  −39    28 relegated 
18 Allous VB              38    4   9  25    25   63  −38    21 relegated 
19 Berwick United         38    4   3  31    31   89  −58    15 relegated 
20 Stalker Bay            38    3   3  32     9   72  −63    12 relegated

Player of Year:
1st: Darren O'Brian -- Kings Park

2nd: Eloisa Purinton -- Cornellians

3rd: Barry Stewart -- Marionville

4th: Fredrick Houben -- La Gorlions

5th: John McCormack -- Lammerton

Golden Boot (Top Scorer):
1st: 29 Eloisa Purinton -- Cornellians

2nd: 23 John McCormack -- Lammerton

=3rd: 19 Alan Doolan -- Kings Park

| Ivan Archic -- Warriors

5th: 17 Gaston Avelione -- Handon United

=6th: 15 Konstantin Holstad -- FC Soessch

| Paul Coine -- Port Sebastian

| Daniel Cleopas -- Cornellians

9th: 14 Felix Scholl -- Kings Park

=10th: 13 Jago Avelione -- La Gorlions

| Caitlin L'Attue -- D'Itille

| John Cooper -- Lammerton

| Michael Maxwell -- Marionville

Young Player of The Year:
1st: John McCormack -- Lammerton

2nd: Caitlin L'Attue -- D'Itille

3rd: Tsumugi Narita -- Cornellians

4th: Till Ümann -- FC Soessch

5th: Erin Braden -- Kings Park

Manger of The Year:
1st: Eric Desmond -- Kings Park

2nd: Alexander Pearce -- Cornellians

3rd: John Sedder -- Lammerton

4th: Liam Seawel -- D'Itille

5th: Rodger Green -- Lammerton City

Team of The Year:

GK == Lucas D'Araby

DF == Thomas Carmichael - Scott Burton

- David Daller

- Triffid Ramsey

MF == Darren O'Brian

- Fredrick Houben

- Barry Stewart

FW == Eloisa Purinton

- Ivan Archic

- John McCormack

Schottic Cup -- Final

Kings Park 2–2 New Belfast Warriors (2–3 AET)
Goals: 33" Scholl, 79" Doolan - Kings Park 17" 48" 113" Archic - New Belfast Warriors

In what was a fantastic match, typical of the way Kings Park have conducted themselves all season, they fell just short in a bid to add the Schottic Cup to the Globe Cup place they have already earned so far. New Belfast Warriors, who have had a disastrous year by their standards, managed to finally give their poor fans something to cheer about, as an Ivan Archic hat trick handed them a first taste of international domestic football. The game was very competitive, with both sides on the attack for long periods. In the end Warriors manager Jock Sonny, will be hoping that the Nekulturnyn's extra time goal will be enough to keep him in a job next season.

MOTM: Ivan Archic

Regional Divisions - Second Tier
In a bid to make football more sustainable in Schottia the second tier is split into four Regional Divisions. This was in an attempt to cut down travel time for fans and players, while giving a greater number of sides a chance at promotion. The champions of each league win promotion to the SPL, and the side finishing bottom is relegated to the Regional Conference. Other sides may be relegated too depending on which sides come down from the SPL, keeping the number of teams in each league at ten.

Division A - Greater Handon, Marionville, New Belfast, and New Scotland.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Port Patrick United           36   25   7   4   115   59  +56    82 pormoted
 2 Regional Development Side A   36   21   8   7    65   44  +21    71
 3 Handon North                  36   21   6   9    80   62  +18    69
 4 Marionville Thistle           36   19   4  13    77   63  +14    61
 5 Adelly Road                   36   17   7  12    84   59  +25    58
 6 Huntly Hunters                36   17   4  15    60   63   −3    55
 7 Oxley Court                   36   15   7  14    65   58   +7    52
 8 Kirk Preston                  36    6   8  22    25   59  −34    26
 9 Bridge of Hawick              36    6   8  22    29   72  −43    26
10 Dundee Rovers                 36    0   7  29    23   84  −61     7 relegated

Division B - Central South Schottia, Lammerton, Eastern Eusebia, Port James, and Belker.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Herman Park                   36   24   9   3   104   55  +49    81 promoted
 2 Mucusia                       36   25   4   7    84   49  +35    79
 3 Lammerton Wonderers           36   19  10   7    63   34  +29    67
 4 Oak Park Celtic               36   17   9  10    50   33  +17    60
 5 Lammerton Eels                36   15   5  16    48   52   −4    50
 6 Central Stars                 36   15   5  16    63   69   −6    50
 7 Port James                    36   12   6  18    59   79  −20    42
 8 Regional Development Side B   36   10   9  17    59   72  −13    39
 9 Frank Region Stars            36   10   5  21    46   68  −22    35
10 Grently                       36    1   2  33    51  116  −65     5 relegated

Division C - The North Islands, La Gorla, and Bergstadt.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Soessch 1990                  36   22   8   6    84   44  +40    74 promoted
 2 Döllar                        36   21  11   4    58   19  +39    74
 3 Regional Development Side C   36   21   5  10    80   50  +30    68
 4 Jena VB                       36   17  10   9    80   48  +32    61
 5 Baumann VB                    36   17   8  11    52   49   +3    59
 6 Danatun                       36   12   8  16    56   62   −6    44
 7 La Harve                      36   10  11  15    39   55  −16    41
 8 Stad Oventa                   36    9  11  16    54   61   −7    38 relegated
 9 Algate Co-operative           36   11   2  23    46   77  −31    35 relegated
10 Free Village                  36    0   6  30    38  122  −84     6 relegated

Division D - New Island

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 New Island                    36   28   5   3    59   14  +45    89 promoted
 2 Regional Development Side D   36   25   4   7    76   39  +37    79
 3 New Town Thistle              36   23   5   8    72   32  +40    74
 4 Garvald                       36   20   6  10    63   48  +15    66
 5 Coldstream Farmers Union      36   19   5  12    48   29  +19    62
 6 Berwick Celtic                36   11   7  18    35   51  −16    40
 7 Arnahm                        36   10   9  17    48   55   −7    39
 8 Lewisden United               36   11   1  24    35   65  −30    34
 9 Keith                         36    6   6  24    34   73  −39    24 relegated
10 BVLT                          36    2   2  32    24   88  −64     8 relegated

Series B Champions' Cup Play-offs

Semi-finals-
Herman Park 4–5 Port Patrick United
Soessch 1990 0–3 New Island

Third place play-off-
Herman Park 2–1 Soessch 1990

Final-
Port Patrick United 1–3 New Island

New Island, Port Patrick United, and Herman Park Qualify for the Series B Champions' Cup

Minor Leagues - Non UICA

Womens' Super-League
The Womens' Super-League predates co-ed football in Schottia, but has been kept in place to help ease the transition for female players into the mixed game. The semi-professional set up has, however, produced some of the nations top stars in recent years, and many young women use it as a chance to get first team experience at an early age. With a surprisingly large niche following, the WSL has an exciting brand of football.

.                                 Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Lammerton City                  30   23   4   3    68   31  +37    73
 2 Handon Eagles                   30   16   9   5    70   49  +21    57
 3 West Belker Picts               30   17   5   8    67   46  +21    56
 4 Handon Ladies                   30   15  10   5    73   44  +29    55
 5 West Coast Worriors             30   14  11   5    58   40  +18    53
 6 Soessch Ladies                  30   14  11   5    57   40  +17    53
 7 Cornellians WFC                 30   15   6   9    58   46  +12    51
 8 PS Ladies                       30   14   8   8    57   54   +3    50
 9 New Belfast Institute of Arts   30   11   6  13    49   47   +2    39
10 Handon Amazons                  30   10   9  11    37   39   −2    39
11 Marionville Reds                30   10   6  14    43   50   −7    36
12 North Island Mountianeers       30    7   7  16    54   66  −12    28
13 South Berwick Auks              30    6   4  20    25   52  −27    22
14 Marsia Thunder                  30    5   5  20    28   61  −33    20
15 University of Soessch           30    4   6  20    32   79  −47    18
16 WFC Dundee                      30    3   5  22     6   38  −32    14

WSL | Player of The Year:

1st: Flora Klee -- Lammerton City

2nd: Victoria Dunn -- Handon Eagles

3rd: Louise King -- Lammerton City

4th: Anna Kurovski -- Handon Eagles

5th: Mara Logan -- West Belker Picts

by **Schottia** » Sat Dec 19, 2015 12:44 pm

Schottic Premier League

2019-20

Preview
-Part One-

Playing squads for the upcoming season, with provisional starting eleven, and notable reserves. Teams listed in no particular order.

Cosumarite Alexander Pearce has had to oversee something of a transition over the summer, as The Eagles have gone from being a top MPL side, to a side able to survive on an SPL budget. Gone is the massive reserve pool, and everything other that what is require to see the club move forward in a positive manner. Despite the loss of players such as Michael Pabadakis, Dan Cleopus, and Dahrla Bhosz, they still have more than enough about them to mount a competitive defence of their title.

So important to Cornellians are their rampaging wing-backs, Santiago Lowe, and Triffid Ramsey; the latter having gone from the lower leagues of Nepharim football, to Augustineopel Saints in the MPL Conference, to being arguably the best left-back in Schottia. Both have pace and energy in abundance, and last season there were few sides that had a credible answer to their constant overlapping. Di Bradini Cup winner Scott Burton, who has been synonymous with the Eagles since their inception, of course keeps his place at centre-back and has been made vice captain. He will be joined by 21-year-old defender Stephan Gargo, a very promising young player, who was defender of the season in the Cosumarite College League. Pearce has managed to keep the side's midfield neuclius intact, with Schottic international Mark Kelman, Kirisakian wonderkid Tsumugi Narita, and Jedorian attacker Cosmin Dobrescu. Keeping a hold of those three was very important to the manager and he will be delighted to have them all onboard. There are not going to be the same options coming of the bench this season, that much is clear, but they will be able to call upon Messilan wingers Eula Richard, Jeff Dennis, and Roman Lucius Hirtius Carus if required. Finaly, Mabel Finnemark is a late addition to the squad, the Fleftic U-21 star joining from Rosenpfelblatz City Ladies. While this isn't the same team it was two seasons ago, there is no doubting the ability world class striker Eloisa Purinton, a striker who captained Gloriax to the last-16 of the world cup aged just 21. Also the skipper of this side, it will be interesting to see how long the club can keep a hold of their golden girl, and the SPL's top scorer last season. In terms of back up Pearce and his team can look to Ghantish international Daniel Sturridge, who is more than capable of getting among the goals, as well as Kathryn Kvanderwyk, who he has snapped up from the fifth tier of Cosumarite football. No doubt using his knowledge and contacts back in his homeland, the manager has be able to invest in the clubs future, even if his main objective was to bring down the squad size.

Star Player: Eloisa Purinton (Gloriax) | Rising Star: Tsumugi Narita (Kirisaki)

Prediction: 1st. Cornellians looked very good last season, and despite concerns as to how they would adapt to the SPL they stayed strong and picked up the title in their debut season. Inevitably it is going to be harder this time round, but most people will have the champions as narrow favourites.

UICA Competition: Champions Cup

The glasses of most United fans must definitely be half full as they head into the new season. Following on from the side's worst season in living memory there are a handful of positives to take away: Handon United have gotten rid of a manager the fans were never convinced of, they've seen an overhaul of an aging side, and a real statement of ambition from the board with the appointment of former FC Jansberg boss Carl Sorensen. The ambitious 44-year-old has set about transforming a side, which after finishing fifth last season, was no longer fit for purpose. He and the board have made tough decisions, none more so that the sale of Gaston Avelione, which may have rustled a few feathers. The 31-year-old's four million move to Blue Coast 1981 has freed up wages, and transfer fees to bring in no less than six new players.

Schottia captain Lucas D'Araby remains in goals, as do stalwart defenders John McCann, and Weilkilan veteran Robert Peszke. True to form, Sorensen has not been afraid to make changes to the leagues best defence either, bringing in 95X centre-back Tameka Ninteyseventh from SC Oceanside for two million, replacing Kevin Scougle. Also, in a move which has surprised a few sections of the media, the club have enlisted the services of Copper Cuprum left-back Esteke Inanuk, who may prove to be a surprise package this season. In the midfield they will most likely stick with the services experienced trio Marko Simonsen, Alfred Seggerson, and Colin Donaldson. Retired Schottia captain Donaldson and the ever dependable Semar, Simonsen, formed a rock solid partnership last season in front of the back four. Schottic internationalist Seggerson, who has steadily risen through the ranks at the club, is now hitting his prime and establishing himself at the main man in what looks to be a three in midfield system. In a slightly more attacking role, Sorensen can look to up and coming youngster Aya Bernman, who was one of the club's few shinning lights last term. The 18-year-old can play left or centre and at this level has the ability to cause problems. United However, have a host of decent young players at there disposal, not least new recruit Christian Lonvenkrands, whom Sorensen brings in from the infamous academy system in his home land. Up front Sorensen has brought in help for last season's loan striker Nik Konstidios, who it is fair to say struggled somewhat with the weight of expectation. In comes the very highly rated Isaac Nketiah and Serge Mavididi, two 19-year-old Semars who spent last season on loan at FC Torshavn. No doubt Sorensen managed to pull some strings with his former charges FC Jansberg, as it is a real coup to have nabbed these players on a season long loan. With the addition of the two full internationalists, it may be a signal thet Sorensen is planning to switch to three up front at some point.

Star Player: Alfred Seggerson | Rising Star: Aya Bernman

Prediction: 2nd. Although it could go either way. In some ways this league isn't big enough for Cornellians and Handon United, neither side will be willing to settle for being second best.

There's not much wrong with Port Sebastian on paper, not much at all in fact. When you look at the likes of Chris Gonzao, Joey Bia, and Paul Coine, all of whom are Schottia NT squad players, you feel that their has to be the makings of a title challenge. Throw into the mix, experienced skipper Jack Baxter, former U-21 captian Paul Doig, and Ko-oren international Emeline Millet, then Porty start to look like a team capable of doing real damage.

Port Sebastian would be the first to admit they let themselves down last season, and their final third collapse, which saw them plumit from second down to eighth very nearly cost manager Conner Watts his Job. To those ends the 48-year-old has taken measures to try and sure up his squad with the addition of young Semar striker Demba Traore, and former Project +90 product, Kazamatsurian midfielder Chiyoko Sakuraka. It remains to be seen what kind of an impact these players will make, but whatever they do, the side will need to hit the ground running, as the fans are unlikely to remain patient unless they see some positive movement.

Port Sebastian have a settled side, with a back four and keeper well used to playing together. Baxter performs his role well, acting as that all important first line of defence; so it's a big surprise that they conceded so many last season. Tightening up at the back is a must, but they aslo need to curb their reliance on Millet to pull the string for them. The side really need the Joey Bia of three seasons ago, when he fist burst onto the scene. Furthermore, they need Coine and Traore to work out how they are going to play together quickly if all this is to come together.

Star Player: Emeline Millet (Ko-oren) | Rising Star: Joey Bia

Prediction: 6th. It can only get better for Porty, and we have marked them out as one of the six teams who have a shot at the title. However, we feel that they will just miss out on the Globe Cup spots, and whether Watts can survive this will be another matter.

Winning the Schottic Cup may have done a little to ease The Warriors' frustraitions at following up their title-winning season with a huge slide down the table to ninth. A big part of their problem has been keeping a hold of key personnel, not least their manager Jane Gullie, who left to take charge of the national team. In the last year and a half however, they've seen star players Jon Fotan and Elisa Rivera head to the exit door, leaving their midfield severally depleted. All that to one side, there is very little wrong with their squad, which on paper should be able to push on this season. James Blantery is an experienced defender with caps to his name, as do Kris Scott and Craig O'Maramy in the midfield. Of course they can always rely on club captain Ivan Archic up front, and although the Nekulturnyan isn't getting any younger, he is still lethal in attack.

The Whalers knew they needed to bring in a couple of big players in the window, and they have. Most exciting will no doubt be Holly Addison, who plays her first club game since fleeing the conflict in Arcadia a year and a half ago. The 23-year-old midfielder has now switched allegiances to Schottia, and played in the World Cup for her adopted nation. New manager Jock Sonny has also brought in fresh legs upfront in the form of Upper Sunrise Islander Jenny Lundergrand. The feisty 21-year-old has a reputation as a bit of a hot head, and Sonny will be hoping that helps bring some more bite to the attack. They have also added the signature of Quebecoise +90 graduate Adrienne O'Callahan, with the hope that the highly rated youngster will bring a freshness to their attack.

The Warriors need to get this one right, but you feel that with the signings they have made, they could be the third title challengers this season. How Scott and Addison compliment each other will be vital, and we'll need to wait and see what kind of impact Lundergrand is able to make, and what she can learn from Archic in the attack. Sonny's lads and lasses will have way too much quality about them for the sides at the bottom of the table. Their final position will depend much upon their ability to take points off of teams like Kings Park and Lammerton.

Star Player: Ivan Archic (Nekulturnya) | Rising Star: Jenny Lundergrand (Upper Sunrise Islands)

Prediction: 3rd. They will get back to winning ways, there is no doubt about it. Whether they can get their noses ahead of Handon United of Cornellians is another story.

Soessch are the Mr Dependable of this league. Always in and around the top four, it would be a very brave man indeed who would bet against them finishing there again. Solidity is their key to success. Every person, in every position on the pitch is no nonsense, hard working and professional. They have Schottia international Chris Okywä at centre back, alongside a very settled back line. In midfield Gerhart Bitter, Till Ümann and Chris Dickson have all been in the Schottic set up on one way or another, Ümann in the senior squad very recently. In attack they are deadly accurate with veteran Schottic striker Bruno Schwartz spearheading things up front, with Polar Islander Konstantin Holstad, just behind him. Jurgan Peters has never been the kind of manager who goes nuts in the in the transfer window, normally favouring to bring in youngsters with a point to prove and integrating them into the tightly knit squad. This year has been no different, and the only addition of note is Nepharim winger Johan Shearer, who should fit in nicely, and will slot in on the right for Die rote Teufel.

FC Soessch are particularly dangerous from set-pieces, with Holstad tucking away anything on the edge of the box. The height provided by Schwartz and McDonald also means there is a huge aerial threat from corners and balls swung into the box. This is typical of the way the side approach games, with patient build-ups, power, and directness in attack.

Star Player: Konstantin Holstad (Polar Islandstates) | Rising Star: Johan Shearer (Nephara)

Prediction: 4th. There is nothing to suggest that Soessch won't be there or there abouts at the end of the season. They have pretty much the same squad, which held up pretty well last time round.

Kings Park were our surprise package last season, storming the league in Eric Desmond's first season in charge, to finish second. Years of being the leagues over achievers, followed by a somewhat barren patch had left fans screaming for an end to this feast or famine style. The Royals are well known for their gung-ho attitude, and always take the fight to the opposition. Last season they treated us to some great goals, and a lot of free flowing football.

The introduction of former Handon United and Schottia full-back Jack Gordon is clearly an attempt by the manager to stop leaking so many goal. He joins up with an experienced, if not a little haphazard defence. The midfield is where Kings Park are at their best however, and all four of them are capable of getting goals. Erin Braden made a big impact in the SPL last year, having made the switch from women's football. The 21-year-old is a tall athletic player, capable of dictating the play. Jake Halls, Felix Scholl, and last season's player of the year Darren O'Brian work well as a unit and push forward to support the attack.

The main goal threat for Kings Park is Alan Doolan, a tall poacher of a forward who doesn't have a particularly pretty style of play, but he is certainly effective. The side's big signing this season is Port James' Francis Keelinan. The 25-year-old has caps and goal for Schottia, he will be crucial to their Globe Cup campaign.

Star Player: Darren O'Brian | Rising Star: Erin Braden

Prediction: 5th. There are very few people predicting that Kings Park will soar as high as they did last season, but they will be near to top nonetheless. It will crucial for them to keep their momentum going.

Nestled high in the North Island Mountains, there is no team on the planet that enjoys a trip to Danu Parc in La Gorla. By no means the largest in terms of budget, The Lions make up for it by being a ruff and tumble, industrious side, with some tough nuts in their ranks. Throw manager Pascal Voitle, a high altitude home ground, and players like Fredfick Houben and Jago Avelione into the mix, and you have a club who regularly finish in the top half of the table.

Billy Small, joins up with last season's 6th place side, completing a 300k transfer from Lammerton, as the Lions unusually have actually spent some money. The old side is very much the same however, with the club managing to retian the services of key players such as Vinod Purteer, Houben, and Avelione. The side from Pays La Gorla, will most likely continue to get in the faces of sides, and will be hoping they can go the extra mile and secure for themselves some UICA football.

Star Player: Fredrick Houben (Cosumar) | Rising Star: Juan Velente

Prediction: 9th. Ninth yes, but they are right in the mix. There are several team round them who are on a similar level, in what is fast becoming a very competitive league.

One of the leagues larger teams, and consistent performers year in, year out. They have had to struggle recently, seeing top home-grown talent Larry Watt and Lachlan Frazer heading for the exit. Midfielder Barry Stewart comes in to this season on the back of some of his best form to date in an Old Boys jersey, and the fans will be hoping he is the player they have been looking for to deliver them a top four spot. Their is no doubting the fact that they had a good season last year, slightly up on expectations, and they will hope that some of their new signings can make a difference.

Stewart, along with captain David Daller, provide real quality in the back bone of this side, making them difficult to break down. In addition to this they have a quality young striker in the form of 23-year-old Michael Maxwell. Joining up with the side during the summer are: Nepharim keeper Pearce Brice formally of Chenoworth Harriers, Schottic U-18s cap Larry Goodman joining from Cornellians, and Pasagran teenager Vojnomir Nikolic. The Old Boys will feel that these players will hopfully allow them to push on from where they left of last season.

Star Player: David Daller | Rising Star: Vojnomir Nikolic (Pasagra)

Prediction: 7th. Another good season ahead for Marionville. They have taken lengths to improve on their side in the transfer window, the only problem is that the other teams round about them have done the same. We will really just need to wait and see.

Athletic had a howler last season, there is no other way to put it. A team playing to 27,000 a week should not be finishing 13th in the table, and it cost the manager his job. The Seasider have had to go through a mammoth rebuilding exercise, with no fewer than five players coming into the team. Francis Keelinan, the club's long time top goal scorer, has left to join last season's runners-up Kings Park, leaving a poor team further depleted.

Audioslvian Carl Mujica comes in at right-back, along with Northern Sunrise centre-back Tomoaki Neyama, who join Jim Tanner and Steve Orwell in the back four. In midfield Athletic have always relied heavily on Eusebian, Joseph Preca, to provide the creative spark. This season they have signed Cornellians' DBC winner Ismal Keirut to help out on that front, but it will be a lot of pressure on the shoulders of a player not used to first team football. It is all change up front however, with one enforced change. Young Semar Remaine Clarke joins from FC Jansberg, and Dahrla Bhosz, a player with MPL experience, is their second recruit in the wake of the Cornellians clear out.

Star Player: Joseph Preca (Eusebian Islands (Ossoria)) | Rising Star: Remaine Clarke (Semarland)

Prediction: 11th. There is still a long way to go for this side, and with so many changes to the starting line up, it could prove a struggle.

Hollin are a smaller side, which have traditionally always packed a punch. They are constantly challenging for a top half finish, and get there more often than not. They are most famous for the hostile atmosphere in their home stadium, which is worth a couple of extra points each season.

Hollin finished twelfth in the league last time round, but they have taken cares to make improvements to their playing squad, bringing in Alistair Carlyle from Chistopheran side Blue Coast, and Fred Dawson from Port Sebastian. They will be hoping, that these players can help them jump a couple of places.

Star Player: Chris Jack | Rising Star: Palle Ellsmere (Polaaskan)

Prediction: 10th. Were unlucky last season, and should climb back up the table.

by **Schottia** » Sun Dec 20, 2015 11:38 pm

-Part Two-

Had one of their best seasons in recent memory last year, and as a result have UICA football to look forward to. There was a lot of speculation as to whether they would be able to keep ahold of some of their more impressive players such as: John Copper, John McCormack, and Arron Marcie. Much to the relief of their fans they managed to retain their serveices, and added to their options in attack, with promising Northwestern Sunriser Mars Alexandersson.

With a good playing squad, and large home attendences there will be many expecting another strong season from the Hornets, even if last season may have been seen as a flash in the pan. Upfront, John McCormack was heralded as one of the breakthrough players in the league last season, and once again they will be counting on him and strike partner Cooper, to bring in the goals.

Prediction: 8th. It's cruel, but if a few of the others in the league get their act together, then this could be a hard season for Lammerton.

There is an old adage in football, don't sell your best player. The problem for Hillstreet is that they have done just that, twice in a row. Last year Nik Konstidios, the striker whose goals used to drag them over the line time after time, left to join Handon United for just under a million. This year it is their ever dependable team captain Kevin Morton who signed for newly promoted Port Patrick in a club record two million move. All in all there must be something of a sinking feeling creeping in, and it is a long way down for the side from Huntly.

They've beefed up their hard season ahead with former Soessch centre-back Desmond Derpson, Nial Constantine who joins from Marionville, and one time promising youngster Phillip Hanalii, who ends a four year stint at Cornellians.

Prediction: 18th. Unfortunately it looks like the drop zone for the Hunters, unless they can come up with a miracle.

From the beautiful Northern Schottic coast, nestled among the brightly coloured wood panel houses of Anacy, is the picturesque Itillebay. Probably one of the highlights for most teams is the long drive to away days against D'Ittile. The lime greens have been doing their best, however, to make that as unpleasant as possible as possible, with some good performances over the last few season. They've had to wave goodbye to Caitlin L'Attue, a youngster who in all honesty, they had no hope of holding onto long term. She has moved of to Hollybrent in Osarius and bigger and better things, having spent three seasons at the North Island club.

They will be hoping the signing of Warriors striker Callum Frir will help them, as they look to move on from the loss of L'Attue, and build on a very positive season which saw them finish 10th.

Prediction: 12th. Probably going to drop a couple of places, but they will avoid the drop. Should be safe mid-table.

The city of New Belfast's poorer relation, the blues fans have had to endure years of watching their rivals challenge for the title, while the languish in the bottom half of the table. Will this be the season that all changes? Most likely not, but NBB are one of a number of teams who could all be vying for a respectable top half finish. Last year's 14th place will have been a big disappointment for the team, who will be hopping for some improvement this time round.

They have some solid enough players in the form of; keeper Jim Black, Right-winger Sam Saxon, and striker David Millar, who earned a Schottia cap whist playing for Port James. This season they will be able to look to Daineri striker Shu, who joins from Burnhm FC on a free transfer, and up and coming youngster Aleksander Heino-Watanabe, who is promoted from the reserves.

Prediction: 14. This is a very tough one to call, but we are going to leave them where they finished last season, just clear of relegation.

Their fist season back in the top flight was something of an anti climax as they finished just outside of the relegation zone. Despite having a good squad of players, many were surprised that they never capitalised on their early promise. They have an old-fashioned direct style of football, with two no nonsense midfielders in Tommy Wilson and Dave Dooden, as well as U-21 internationalist Jock Hobbs. Theoretically, there is nothing standing in the way of the side from northern Handon making a real go of things this season, so we will be eagerly watching.

Former fans' favourite Scott Cooper rejoins the club after spells at Cornellians and New Belfast Warriors and the manager will be hoping he can recapture some of his form of four years ago. They also have the very highly rated Nathaniel Bueno-Wells on loan from Handon United until the end of the season, likewise with 95X keeper Krista Till who joins from Marionville.

Prediction: 17th. With some of the sides who have just come up, this thing just got a lot tougher for The Beachcombers.

Lamerton City enjoyed one of their best seasons ever in the top flight last season finishing 11th. No matter what happens you can usually be sure of two things in the SPL. 1) Lammerton City will struggle. 2) Lammerton City will stay up. It will no doubt be the same again this season, and although they have a couple of very decent players in the form of Thomas Carmichael and Karen Seywel, they really lacked the finance to strengthen in the window.

Sharing the city stadium with their much better established city rivals, Lammerton, the Princes have always struggled to muster much support.

Prediction: 16th. Just outside the relegation zone, but they are going to have to work mightily hard.

One of the four sides promoted from the second tier, Port Patrick perhaps have the best chance of making an impact this season. They used to be good but they are "so $!¶{ now" as rival fans have constantly reminded them for the five years they have been in the second tier, watching their crowds diminish, and the echo in their 18,000 seater stadium increase.

They have actually had some money to spend, and what's better they seem to have spent it wisely. In comes wily old centre back Jake Dooner from Cornellians, Hillstreet captain Kevin Morton, former Schottia cap Willie McIntyre, and Women's League top player Jane Swanson. All of the above, you would imagine, would be able to add something, and when you take into account the players already in this side, you can see why we are going to predict that they will stay up.

Prediction: 13th. On a player for player basis, they have a really good chance of fighting for a spot in the top half of the table.

Coasted to the top of Regional Division D last season and are rewarded with an instant return to the top flight. Former Handon United and Schottia star Greame Collins has worked wonders as manager, tranforming them into a side, which looks really hard to beat. Former Schottia U-21 international Kevin McCrorry has been an important source of goals for the club, and when you add to that an experenced back line, you would imagine they will pick up a few points this year.

Collins has brought in one time New Belfast Warriors golden-boy Jack Brier, who seems to have been deemed surplus by Jock Sonny. The 20-year-old winger, has pace by the bucket-load, and will no doubt slot in well. In addition to this Collins has brought in the experienced Cosumarite Kennick Finlay, and Brenecian midfielder Nikita Clohessy, who should both compliament the side.

Prediction: 15th. Probably not going to have any trouble staying up this time, and might even do a bit better if they can string some results together.

A small side from the west of Schottia, Herman Park are making their return to the top flight after a long leave of absence. They had a good season last year, and largly need to thank Kevin Arnold, and young striker Hamish Jackson for getting them there.

They have brought in Handon United's lightning youngster Deek Rotter, who should definitely have the pace and power to improve their side. However Herman Park's flagship signing is former U-21 cap Lenard Koor, whom despite being surplus to requirements at Port James, still knows what it takes to score at SPL level.

Prediction: 19th. They'll give it their best shot, but Herman Park will return to the regional divisions as quickly as they came.

Only founded thirty years ago, this side form Schottia's second city have risen up slowly through the footballing pyrimid and make thier first appearence in the SPL. They have a talented young midfielder in the form of Gordon Eckernesy, and watch out for 16-year-old Osarian Jessica Grey, the youngster by all accounts has really impressed her manager during the pre-season.

Prediction: 20th. Not a bad team in all honesty, but no where near the quality needed to stay in the division.

by **Schottia** » Wed Dec 23, 2015 5:36 am

Matchday one - twelve

Champions Cup -- Prelim Round

Cornellians 1-0 RGS Athletic (EFL)

Cornellians got us off and running in the UICA competitions, with a 1-0 win at home to RGS Athletic. Cornellians are no strangers to international competition, having competed in the MPL for two seasons. It was, in the end, a fairly composed performance where the Eagles managed to do what was required of them. Damien Sturridge's second half header from a Cosmin Dobrescu freekick was enough to give the Schottic side a slim advantage as they headed to Eastfield Londge.

Globe Cup -- Prelim Round

Pacific City Nationals (NFX) 1–0 Lammerton
Honneur (ZEN) 2-1 FC Soessch

There was no such luck for Schottia's Globe Cup hopefuls however, with Soessch and Lammerton going down to Honnuer and Pacific City Nationals respectively. Lammerton failed to recreate one of their dogged displays from last season, as they were undone by a single Nationals goal. Soessch on the other hand, gave themselves a valuable life line with a Bruno Schwartz goal late into stoppage time, to give them a fighting chance in Zenic.

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

On paper it was the in incredible game to kick thing off with, and typically it ended up being something of an anticlimax. Handon United, in Carl Sorensen's fist game in charge held reigning champion Cornellians 0-0 at Lochend stadium. United had a massive point to prove, and in truth they looked a much better side that last season when they struggled to fifth place. United stood up very well to the Eagles' fire-power, and nullified the threat of Eloisa Purrinton throughout. Tameka Ninteyseventh on her debut was immense at centre back, and it was the 28-year-old from 95X who nearly set up the winner after her long ball forward fell kindly for fellow debutant Serge Mavididi. However the young Semar could only look on as Jeremy McNott's diving save turned the ball wide. Another side with all eyes on their opening performance was New Belfast Warriors. After finishing ninth last season, the fans were expecting big improvements. Luckily that was what they got, as the wily Nekulturnyan Ivan Archic, Schottia star Craig O'Maramy, and new signing Jenny Lundergrand all found the net to give them a three-nil win over strugglers Hillstreet. The Whalers will also be happy with the performances of midfielders Holly Addison and Quebecoise signing Adrienne O'Callahan, both young women played very well in their first games in green and orange.

Champions Cup -- Prelim Round

RGS Athletic (EFL) 1-1 Cornellians AET

An extra time winner from Gloriaxian striker Eloisa Purrinton helped Cornellians progress to the next round of the Champion's Cup. The 24-year-old looked at her best, as she turned in a Mark Kelman cross after a very hard fought match.

Globe Cup -- Prelim Round

Lammerton 1-2 Pacific City Nationals (NFX)
Soessch 4-1 Honneur (ZEN)

In the Globe Cup, fortunes were very much mixed. Mars Alexanderssen's goal on 22 minutes wasn't enough for the Hornets as they ended up losing 2-1 to Pacific City Nationals. Soessch however, managed to produce a breathtaking UICA night performance to defeat Honneur 4-1. Johan Shearer, opened the scoring for his side on the stroke of half time, with Gerhard Bitter, and Konstantin Holstad (2) adding three more in the second half to send Die rote Teufel through.

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

Another side with much to prove this year are Port Sebastian, who made it two wins out of two, with a 4-2 victory over Lammerton City. 20-year-old Demba Traore scored a double taking his tally to three, as he looks every bit the player Porty have been looking for, since joining the club on a free. Ko-oren midfielder Emeline Millet bagged her first of the season with and excellent solo effort, and Chiyoko rounded of another good day at the office for her side, slicing in Joey Bia's 83rd minute cross to cap a good performance on her part. Alexander Pearce's Cornellians side got over their opening day nerves to win 3-0 at newly promoted New Island. Eloisa Purrinton was outstanding as the Gloriaxian's first half double set her team cursing. Eula Richard completed the scoring ten minutes from the end with a drive from the edge of the box, after some great work by Tsumugi Narita. The 18-year-old Kirisakian Narita, on this performance, looks like she is going to be a key player yet again for her club. Handon United also recorded their first victory under new manager Carl Sorensen. Marionville are never an easy team to play, and after Pasargan teenager Vojnomir Nikolic cancelled out Colin Donaldson's headed opener, there must have been a feeling that things were not going to go United's way. However, substitute Rimo Hemnes came to the rescue when his sliding tackle on Barry Stewart sent the ball through into the path of Semarland international Isaac Nketiah. The 19-year-old never normally needs more than a sight at goal, and one-on-one with the keeper, he deftly slotted the ball home to make himself an instant hero with the home fans. The poor start for Lammerton continued as they went down 2-1 to new boys Port Patrick. John McCormack opened the scoring for the Hornets after only three minutes with a well worked, side footed effort from the edge of the box. Despite the early breakthrough it was Port Patrick who got the upper hand, with goals from Herron Crew, and new signing Willie McIntyre.

Champions Cup -- Play-off Round

CF Aéropag (ACF) 3–2 Cornellians

In another dramatic night Cornellians pulled level twice, in their 3-2 defeat to CF Aéropag grabbing two vital way goals. Eula Richard scored from the tightest of angles moments before half time, and young Cosumarite Kathryn Kvanderwyk grabbed the sides second on 70 minutes.

Globe Cup -- Play-off Round

Canbix Muses (ZWZ) 2–1 Kings Park
Gruelmakers (GGS) 1–0 FC Soessch

In what seems to be a bridge too far for Schottia's clubs, neither could manage a point in their play-off round away matches. Alan Doolan got the only Schottic goal on the night as he gave Kings Park a faint lifeline against Canbix Muses.

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

This week Port Sebastian kept the momentum going with a 1-0 win away to D'Itille. While there were also hard fought victories for Lammerton, The Warriors, and Handon United. The latter, once again needed a late goal to win the match, this time form Schottia international Nik Konstidios, after Serge Mavididi, and Alf Seggerson had scored previously. Despite Eloisa Purrinton scoring her second double in as many games Cornellians were still help to a 3-3 draw by FC Soessch. The Eagles' inspirational skipper was powerless to deliver a victory for the champions as Bruno Schwartz, Till Ümann, and Nepharim winger Johan Shearer all scored for the North Island side in a pulsating fixture. Substitute Damien Sturridge had to rescue a point for Cornellians in the end, striking late in the second half. There was also a win for fellow title chasers, and last year's runners-up Kings Park, as they won 4-2 away to Herman Park. Alan Doolan, Francis Keelinan, Felix Scholl, and Erin Braden were all on target as the side recorded their second win of the season.

Champions Cup -- Play-off Round

Cornellians 1-3 CF Aéropag (ACF)

Cornellians' Champions Cup dream came to a sudden end last night, as they were defeated 3-1 at home to CF Aéropag. The crowd went into raptures with Purrinton's 32 minute opener, but that was as good as it got, with the Eagles soundly beaten.

Globe Cup -- Play-off Round

Kings Park 0-1 Canbix Muses (ZWZ)
FC Soessch 0-2 Gruelmakers (GGS)

And the Globe Cup dream also came to an end, in something of an anticlimax. Neither Soessch or Kings Park were able to put up much of a contest, as Canbix Muses, and Gruelmakers cruised into the next round.

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

Marionville will be very pleased with their weekend's work as they managed a 3-2 win over Soessch away from home. Pasargan teenager Vojnomir Nikolic scored for a third week running, as the attacking midfielder continues to make his mark in a grey and black jersey. Michael Maxwell, and Barry Stewart were also on target for the Old Boys in what was a composed performance all round. Stewart in particular seems to have picked up from where he had left off last season, and at this rate must be starting to force his way into contention for an international call up. Chris Dickson, and Konstantin Holstad both scored for Soessch, but a share of the points would have been flattering. Port Patrick kept their incredible start to the season going with a shock 2-1 win over Cornellians. The incredible Heron Crew was on target yet again, scoring his fourth in four, after he out-muscled Scott Burton to head home an Esther Abner cross. Cornellians, playing with two up front pulled level early in the second half through the industrious Kathryn Kvanderwyk, but the young Cosumarite's goal was not enough, as Jane Swanson grabbed her first goal for Port Patrick after 70 minutes to earn her side a famous win. The highlight of the weekend was in a different part of Handon however, as arch-rivals Port Sebastian and Handon United locked horns for the first time. Porty, who have been on fire were by far the better side over the 90 minutes and looked to be well on course to a 1-0 victory after Paul Doig's long throw was turned in by Kazamatsui-jin winger Chiyoko on the stroke of half time. 1-0 as we all know is a precarious lead, and just as United were probably written off, they inevitably struck back. Marko Simonsen played a clever one-two with Alf Seggerson, before the latter played an accurate long ball into the path of Serge Mavididi. The teenager did well under pressure from Bobby Beatie, before cutting the ball across goal for his international teammate Isaac Nketiah to slam the ball into the back of the net and save a point.

Globe Cup -- Play-off Round

Cornellians 3–0 Fontvielle Impact (VLD)

The Eagles are now the only Schottic side left proudly fighting the flag, in the UICA, and they proved they are no pushovers with a 3-0 win over Fontvielle Impact. Purrinton scored a double either side of half time and Tsumugi Narita rounded things off ten minutes from the end to give them a good lead going into the second leg.

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

After all their good work over the last two weeks Port Patrick's fans will be hoping that they can somehow recover quickly from the 6-3 collapse at the hands of Marionville. To their credit, Marionville have been playing very well in spells this season, and despite the away side going 3-1 down at one point they pressed on and won in style. Heron Crew was on target yet again, making it five in five, but even adding goals from Willie McIntyre and Cerys Kennicot, there was nothing they could do against what was to follow. Vojnomir Nikolic grabbed himself a double, and there were also goals from Michael Maxwell, Larry Goodman, David Daller, and Scott Lewis, as their side's six goals were this week's talking point. There must have been something in the air this week, because there was more than just the one odd result. Soessch were held 2-2 away to Lammerton City, as the latest in a string of poor results puts Jurgen Peters under a fair bit of pressure early on. Jago Avelione, Davy Ellan, and Billy Small were all on target as La Gorlions somehow managed to defeat Cornellians 3-1 at Lochend park. Handon United will be devastated not to have been able to capitalise, as despite Christian Lovenkrands' first goal for the club, the aspiring champions went down 3-2 to New Island. And finally New Belfast Warriors continue to struggle as they lost 3-0 away to Lammerton. The Hornets seem to have recovered from an initial blip and are now back in business John Cooper (2) and Mars Alexandersson, getting them over the line comfortably here.

Globe Cup -- Play-off Round

Fontvielle Impact (VLD) 1-1 Cornellians

Cornellians did all the damage after only four minutes, when Mark Kelman scored with a long-range effort. Despite scoring in the second half, it was too much to ask of Fontvielle Impact, and Cornellians marched into the Globe Cup qualifying round.

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

After a bad run of late, Alexander Pearce will have been over the moon to have snuck a stoppage time, 4-3 win, against Kings Park. The Royals pulled level in the game three times, with goals from Keelinan, Doolan, and O'Brian, after Narita, Kelaman, and Purrinton had given their side the lead. Their relief was etched on the Cosumarite's face as Triffid Ramsey's 93rd minute goal gave his side the win. The player who has recently switched allegiances to Iskandervale, had been doubling as a wing forward in the closing stages as her side chased the win, and she got her account for the season up and running, turning in a pass from Damien Sturridge. Without particularly making any of the headlines, Port Sebastian seem to be on something of an impressive march reminiscent of their 2017 title winning run. They continued to dish out what has been a tough lesson for Division D champion New Island with a comfortable 3-0 win. Paul Coine tucked away a penalty on the stroke of halftime as Joey Bia was downed in the box, before second half goals from Demba Traore, and Bia himself sealed the win for the Handon side. It was also a tricky match for their neighbours Handon United, as Soessch is never an easy place to go and get points. There luck was in however, as goals from Aya Bernman and Nik Konstidios were enough to get them over the line after Till Ümann had opened the scoring for the home side. A late Dharla Bhosz strike denied The Warriors a home win, as Athletic continue to build as a squad. The Deadoran striker scored her second of the season with a well-executed goal, to pull her side level, after goals from Jenny Lundergrand, and Adrienne O'Callahan, had cancelled out Joseph Preca's earlier strike.

Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round

Medoria Löwen (COM) 2–0 Cornellians

It looked like it could be the beginning of the end this week, with Cornellians going down 2-0 to Medoria Löwen, in a match they never really get a handle of. Even the likes of Dobrescu and Purrinton looked out of sorts, as the Eagles limped off the pitch well beaten.

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

This weekend's pulsating encounter was between Marionville and Kings Park, as once again the Royals struggled to recapture last year's form. The midfield looked all at sea as Marionville, who look much improved this time round, stuck four past them. The experience of Pearce Brice between the sticks seems to have made a difference, as has the inclusion Vojnomir Nikolic, and Larry Goodman, both of whom were on the score sheet here yet again. Kings Park scored twice through Darren O'Brian, and Felix Scholl, but in the end it wasn't enough, and the Old Boys continued to build on their good start to the season. In terms of the Warriors' so called resurgence, the jury is definitely still out as they were brushed aside 3-1 by Cornellians. Ivan Archic scored for the Whalers, but it was merely a drop in the pan, as Mark Kelman, Cosmin Dobrescu, Mabel Finnemark, all found the net for the Eagles. Fleftic U-21 player Finnemark got on the score sheet for the first time this season, her just rewards for some impressive displays off the bench. D'Itille have been having a tremendous start to the season in the absence of former star midfielder Caity L'Attue. Yet another win, this time at the expense of Herman Park, kept them near the top of the table. Callum Frir, after his mover from the Warriors has had a new lease of life, and scored both the side's goals in the 2-1 victory. 20-year-old Dardan Baris has also exceeded all expectations filling in on the right side of midfield, and if anything he seems to be more effective than his predecessor, even if he is now where near as subtle.

Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round

Cornellians 1-1 Medoria Löwen (COM)

After battling so hard to get a goal in the first half of this match, Cornellians let it slip when they conceded straight after the break. Stephen Gargo nodded home an Eula Richard corner to give Alexander Pearce's side a valuable lead, but it wasn't to be enough for the former MPL team.

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

Jake Hobbs scored one of the most important goals of his career as the Schottic U-21 star gave his side a fantastic win over Cornellians, to continue his side's good start to the season. The defeat will have been a bitter pill for the Eagles, who have been struggling with consistency this term. Handon United were on hand to take full advantage of the slip-up even if they themselves have been stuck in second gear. They managed to edge out a La Gorlions side who had just scored ten goals in two games prior to the match. Serge Mavididi scored two as his side managed to prevail through a backs to the walls performance, where the defence were sorely tested. The scoreline was evenly poised until the 53rd minute when Alf Seggerson's freekick cannoned back off the crossbar and into the path of the Semarland international, who was on hand to chest the ball in for his second of the night and fourth of the season. One team who do not seem to be struggling one bit are Lammerton, who took full advantage of their visit to D'Itille to leapfrog their rivals. John McCormak continues to make a name for himself as the young Schottian scored great second half header to add to earlier strikes from John Cooper and Aaron Marcie. The Hornets look like they are going to surprise everyone by proving to be a force again this season. The signing of Northwestern Sunriser Mars Alexandersson seems too have made a massive difference giving them some thrust through the middle of the park.

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

Lammerton continued on the rich vein of form, which has seen them make a charge up the table, this time putting five past a sorry Hillstreet side. It seems like it wouldn't be a weekend in the SPL unless John McCormack was on the score sheet. The highly rated youngster was on song once again as he scored one and had a hand in another two. The pick of the bunch was his neat lay-off for Mars Alexandersson's thunderous drive on 60 minutes, which put the result beyond any doubt. The goal was the Northwestern Sunrise Islander's second of the match, and there were also goals for John Cooper, and Timo Düd. Another massive result this week was Kings Park's 3-2 win at Handon United's Harbour Hill Stadium. The Royals, who have looked a little shaky so far this term, really got it together, and thanks to a Francis Keelinan double and an Alan Doolan penalty they managed to get the better of their big spending rivals. United scored twice, Tameka Ninteyseventh heading in an Alf Seggerson freekick, and a late goal from substitute Rachael Del Arro offered them some consolation. Early pace setters Port Sebastian also got back to winning ways with a comfortable win at New Belfast Blues, following a draw with FC Soessch. The Steel Men are irresistible when they are at their best, and they made light work of the New Belfast club, with goals from Emiline Millet and Demba Traore. Elsewhere Goals from Eloisa Purrinton, Lucius Hirtius Carus, and Kathryn Kvanderwyk, helped Cornellians stave off the Hollin attack, as their opponents came within a hair's breadth of upsetting the champions with Chris Jack and Palle Ellsmere on the score sheet for the Belker Club.

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

The battle of Handon's two big ports, one a Breakers yard, the other a Shipbuilders had its first meet in four years as Port Sebastian brushed city rivals Port Patrick aside as they begin to look unstoppable. Chiyoko Sakuraka left Esther Abner for dead before delivering a cross for Joey Bia to slam home from the corner of the 18-yard-box, as Port opened the scoring after only 10 minutes. The home side were in complete control and as Paul Coine popped up to head home their second early in the second half, and the result was by then a forgone conclusion. Port Patrick must have known it really wasn't their day when Kevin Morton missed a penalty ten minutes from the end, after Cerys Kennicot was brought down by Bobby Beatie. Had the former Hillstreet man converted it may have given them some hope, but as it was Conner Watts' men ran out deserved winners. In this week's big battle Handon United and New Belfast Warriors played out a 4-4 draw. The Warriors will have been disappointed to have to settle for a draw at home, but as seems to be a recurring theme with Carl Sorensen's United side, they never say die. Semar pairing Serge Mavididi and Isaac Nketiah were particularly impressive throughout and both combined well to torment the Warriors defence. Although Jenny Lundergrand struck late to save a point for her club it did nothing to improve the mood of her manager Jock Sonny, who laid into United, and what he perceived to be an "unsporting advantage."

'There is just no way you can compete with that, is there?' Sonny said when speaking to and SBC reporter. 'When we are scraping around brining players in on free transfers, it's ridiculous that he [Sorensen] is able to bring two of the best young strikers in the world [Mavididi and Nketiah] on loan. How can anyone say this is a level playing field? Ridiculous.'

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

After a frustrating defeat at the hands of D'Itille, Cornellians managed to earn a welcome three points against Hillstreet even if was a little hard won. First half goals from Cosmin Dobrescu and Triffid Ramsey should have been enough for the champions, but they allowed Hillstreet back into the match with goals from Phillip Hanalii and Dirk Levee. It was only a matter of time until Cornellians got the upper hand however, and an Eloisa Purrinton freekick and a late Stephan Gargo header gave them the win. Port Sebastian just keep on producing those narrow wins, while all their main title opponents seem to be perpetually slipping up. If things are to continue at this rate then the title could be all but over by the mid way point, as they have already opened up a eight point lead. This time a 1-0 win over Herman Park was enough to keep the momentum going. Lammerton and New Belfast Warriors are two sides doing their best to keep pace and also recorded 1-0 wins against NBB and New Island respectively. Both sides will know that they cannot afford any more slip-ups if they are going to close down the gap.

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

This week's crowd puller was The Warriors 4-3 win at home to FC Soessch. Ivan Archic was again instrumental in his sides win, as the club continue to rely heavily on the Nekulturnyan. The 32-year-old skipper scored the opening goal, but also showed great vision to set up Craig O'Maramy's winner seven minutes from the end. Kris Scott and Jenny Lundergrand were also among the goals for the New Belfast side as they give themselves the faintest of hopes of catching league leaders Port Sebastian. To Soessch's credit they didn't play badly and on another day the goals from Shearer, Schwartz, and Dickson might have been enough to earn them all three points. It must look ominous for the chasing pack, after only twelve matched, with Porty already so far ahead. Given the circumstances, Cornellians aren't doing themselves any favours by dropping silly points like they did on the visit to minnows Soessch 1990. The Raiders went two goals up in the opening half hour with Jessica Grey and Gordon Eckernesy both scoring against the run of play. Despite Conrellians doing everything they could to salvage a point, Eula Richard's goal was not enough to claw the result back, as 1990 sat in and defended for dear life.

Monthly Awards:

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Port Sebastian         12   10   2   0    26    7  +19    32
 2 Lammerton              12    8   0   4    29   17  +12    24
 3 D'Itille               12    7   2   3    25   16   +9    23
 4 New Belfast Warriors   12    7   2   3    22   17   +5    23
 5 Handon United          12    6   4   2    24   20   +4    22
 6 La Gorlions            12    6   3   3    26   17   +9    21
 7 Marionville            12    6   3   3    29   23   +6    21
 8 Kings Park             12    6   2   4    26   25   +1    20
 9 Granton Vale           12    6   2   4    13   15   −2    20
10 Port James Athletic    12    6   1   5    22   20   +2    19
11 Port Patrick           12    5   3   4    21   22   −1    18
12 Cornellians            12    5   2   5    25   23   +2    17
13 New Belfast Blues      12    4   3   5    15   15    0    15
14 Hollin                 12    5   0   7    17   21   −4    15
15 FC Soessch             12    3   5   4    25   25    0    14
16 Lammerton City         12    3   3   6    15   23   −8    12
17 Hillstreet             12    3   2   7    13   22   −9    11
18 Soessch 1990           12    1   3   8     5   17  −12     6
19 New Island             12    1   1  10     6   22  −16     4
20 Herman Park            12    0   1  11     4   21  −17     1

Schottic Cup -- Round of 32

Hillstreet 2–3 Port Patrick
Regional Development Side A 2–0 Stalker Bay
Berwick United 3–3 Dundee Rovers (4–3 AET)
Central Stars 0–1 Soessch 1990
Port James Athletic 3–5 Lammerton
Döllar 4–5 Mucusia
D'Itille 1–1 Granton Vale (1–1 AET) (4–5 pen.)
Regional Development Side D 1–1 Kings Park (1–1 AET) (2–3 pen.)
New Island 3–0 Jena VB
La Gorlions 3–2 Marionville
New Belfast Blues 5–4 Port Sebastian
Lammerton City 3–1 Allous VB
New Belfast Warriors 3–0 FC Soessch
Handon United 1–0 Herman Park
Kirk Preston United 2–2 Dundee (2–2 AET) (4-2 pen.)
Hollin 1–2 Cornellians

Round of 16

New Belfast Blues 3–2 Port Patrick
Regional Development Side A 7–4 Mucusia
New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Soessch 1990
Kings Park 6–3 New Island
Granton Vale 0–1 Kirk Preston United
Lammerton 2–1 La Gorlions
Lammerton City 3–0 Berwick United
Cornellians 1–1 Handon United (1–1 AET) (4–5 pen.)

by **Schottia** » Mon Dec 28, 2015 12:58 pm

Matchday Thirteen - Twenty five

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

This really was Port Sebastian's chance to deal a fatal blow to the chasing pack, however they were unable to beat an in form Lammerton, who consequently moved within five points of the Handon side, with a 4-2 win. Demba Traore, and Jack Baxter were on target for Port Sebastian, but The Hornet's deadly trio were at their devastating best. John Cooper scored either side of half time after John McCormack had given them the lead with a header on the quarter hour mark. Mars Alexandersson then put the result beyond any doubt on 73 minutes, when she picked up an Arron Marcie pass, before rounding the keeper to finish off an excellent move. The result will have come as a massive relief to Handon United who have a huge gap to make up. They took full advantage jumping up to third, as they defeated D'Itille 3-2. United were pushed hard by the home side, and it took a piece of brilliance from Esteke Inanuk, who played in Aya Bernman with a pin-point through ball. The pass allowed the teenager to set up Isaac Nketiah for the simplest of finishes as the Semar helped the visitors steal all three points. It was a somewhat similar story for Cornellians, who triumphed by the same score line despite NBB's best efforts. Young midfielder Aleksander Heino-Watanabe scored a screamer from 30-yards-out, and Dainari striker Shu added another for The Blues. In the end however, it came down to just how clinical The Eagles were in the final third; Tsumugi Narita, Cosmin Dobrescu, and Mark Kelman all finding the net.

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

Newly promoted side Port Patrick have been stringing some good results, and again this week they dealt a knockout blow to a fellow top-half contender Granton Vale, beating them 3-0 in Granton. Striker Heron Crew has been in fantastic form for the Handon side in what is his first season in the top flight. His first half goal today will no doubt further calls for his inclusion in the Schottia squad for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers. Another young player grabbing the headlines this season has been Cerys Kennicot, and the 22-year-old winger was on the score sheet as well today. After being set free by a Willie McIntyre long ball, Kennicot showed great composure to rifle the ball past Krista Till in the Beachcombers' goal. Handon United are another side that are really getting their act together and with a 4-2 win at Hillstreet they keep the pressure on Lammerton and Port Sebastian. They were outstanding again today, and in truth, the gap in the scoring could have been even wider. Alf Seggerson slammed in a long-range freekick to open the scoring, and there were also second half goals from Mavididi, Konstidios, and a first strike for 17-year-old Quinn McEnithly. The former Handon Amazons striker was signed when she was only 13, after being the youngest player to ever appear in the Women's Super League. Among the title contenders, there were wins for Port Sebastian, The Warriors, Lammerton, and Cornellians. The later put in a composed performance as they beat Herman Park 2-0, Cosmin Dobrescu was star of the show as he continue to get back to his best. The Jedorian star scored one and produced the pass, which set up Kathryn Kvanderwyk for the side's second late on.

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

This week was potentially pivotal in the title race, and might be seen as the point at which Handon United made their move. After seemingly being in a commanding position a few weeks back, Porty have now slipped up for the second time in three weeks, this time going down 3-2 to Port James. The league leaders will have no idea how they lost this match, and looking back, goals from Paul Coine and Chiyoko Sakuraka should have been more than enough. As it was however, Remaine Clarke (2) and Joseph Preca both found the net, to give the home side a very welcome three points. Handon United seized the opportunity to pounce, with a very professional 1-0 victory over Soessch 1990. Their opponents set up to play for a 0-0 draw from the kick-off and would have gotten their way, had it not been for Tameka Ninteyseventh's goal, heading in a Christian Lovenkrands corner on 84 minutes. United had to endure a frustrating match, but in the end their patience was rewarded with all three points. Kings Park also earned a good result at home this week, with a 4-3 win over The Warriors. Ivan Archic, Holly Addisson and Adrienne O'Callahan all scored for the New Belfast side, but incredibly The Royals went one better and a Francis Keelinan hat trick, along with a Darren O'Brain header helped their side to all three points. Another side getting back to winning ways was Marionville as the Old Boys defeated Herman Park thanks to strikes from Barry Stewart, Michael Maxwell, and Vojnomir Nikolic. Finally, the big shock this week came in the form of Cornellians' 3-1 defeat at the hands of Lammerton. Given the respective performances of both sides this season, the result may have come as less of a surprise than it would have last season, however it does the Eagles no favours. Eloisa Purrinton scored for the champions, but even she looked second best to John McCormack and Co. The former Schottia U-21 star opened the scoring for the Hornets, this was added to by Jeff Vance and substitute Nathan Clark.

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

After the disappointment of last week, the yo-yoing in form of Cornellians continued as this time they cruised past Athletic 3-0 away from home. Lucius Hirtius Carus opened the scoring with a thunderous drive, the Roman's first of the season, as The Eagles' midfield took fool control. Cosmin Dobrescu, and substitute Mabel Finnemark scored in the second half with their side never really looking at all like losing. Kings Park were this time on the wrong end of a 4-3 result, as manager Eric Desmond seams unable to stop the side leaking goals. Jack Hobbs was the hero of the hour as he scored twice for the boys and girls in grey. Scott Cooper also found the net in his return to his former club, as did Tommy Wilson with a freekick at the start of the second half. The Royals were in the game for the full 90 minutes, and will be disappointed that goals from Felix Scholl, Alan Doolan, and Jack Gordon were not enough. FC Soessch have a lot of ground to make up after their atrocious start to the season, but they are going the right way about rectifying matters with a 5-0 win over Hillstreet. In what was the North Island side's best performance this season, Johan Shearer, Konstantin Holstad (2), Bruno Schwartz, and Till Ümann all made their mark.

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

Cornellians finally got their act together and delivered sucker-punch to league leaders Port Sebastian, with a 4-3 victory, which hardly looked likely a couple of weeks ago. Eloisa Purrinton broke the deadlock with the first of her two goals early in the first half, getting a hold of a Mark Kelman cross, before hitting her shot low under Chris Gonzaö. Her side added a second not long after when Eula Richard turned in a Cosumin Dobrescu ball, driven across the face of the goal. Port Sebastian did respond, and after Jonathan Bia was brought down in the box, Paul Coine tucked away the resulting penalty. The Eagle extended their lead, however, on the stroke of half time when Tsumugi Narita found Kathryn Kvanderwyk in space. The Cosumarite DBC player pulled the trigger to give her side a comfortable lead heading up the tunnel. The match was over shortly after the restart when Purrinton was again on target as Mable Finnemark headered the former Saints full-back Triffid Ramsey's cross back across goal for the Gloriaxian to nod home from close range. Port Sebastian set up a nervy last five minutes with two late goals from Demba Traore and Emeline Millet, but there was never really a question of the Eagles not holding out. This result would have been music to the ears of Handon United and Lammerton, who were able to pull level with the long time league leaders. Again United made hard work of a team they really should have been thumping, but most crucially they took all three points. Marko Simonsen's header on 35 minutes came back off the post and fell kindly into the path of Aya Bernman who had a tap in for the only goal of the game. For Lammerton on the other hand, it was the city derby, and a match they were never going to leave without all the bragging rights. Aaron Marcie got the Hornets off to a flyer after only six minutes, and thy never looked back form there. John Cooper and Timo Düd added goals in the second half as their side ran out 3-1 winners.

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

Cornellians kept up their fine scoring form this week with a 5-2 win over Marionville. Eloisa Purrinton scored two, as her side began to haul themselves within striking distance of the leaders. Their task will be made all the easier with the top sides all taking points off of each other, and that was exactly what happened as Handon United defeated Lammerton 3-1 at the city ground. United's fans must be starting to sense something in the air, new manager, new squad, and a really solid backbone throughout the team. They will have been hoping that Port Sebastian would continue to drop more points as their poor run of form continued. However, one of the hallmarks of a good side it the ability to win even when you don't play well, and that was the case as they defeated Granton Vale 2-0 at home. New Belfast Warriors kept some of the pace going with a 4-2 win at Hollin. The Belker Boys found the net twice with goals from Alistair Carlyle and Fred Dawson, but The Whalers were simply too good for them, and Holly Addison, Ivan Archic, Jenny Lundergrand, and substitute Ian Wilson all scored for the champions of two years back.

Marionville 1–1 Port Sebastian
Lammerton City 4–6 Cornellians
Handon United 0–0 Port James Athletic
New Island 0–0 Lammerton
FC Soessch 1–0 Herman Park
Port Patrick 3–2 New Belfast Blues
La Gorlions 1–0 Soessch 1990
Kings Park 2–1 Hillstreet
New Belfast Warriors 3–1 D'Itille
Granton Vale 2–0 Hollin

The fans piling into Lochend Park are certainly getting their money's worth at the moment and Cornellians' 6-4 win over Lammerton City was not without it's fair share of ups and downs. For the second week in a row captain Eloisa Purrinton scored twice her side. That was accompanied by strikes form Ghantish striker Damien Sturridge, Cosmin Dobrescu, Triffid Ramsey, and Scott Burton. The result, coupled with Handon United, Lammerton, and Port Sebastian all being held to draws meant that it ended up being a very good day at the office for Alexander Pearce's boys and girls. Elsewhere, in what was an otherwise uneventful week, Kings Park beat Hillstreet 2-1 with Felix Scholl scoring twice. Fredrick Houben's 39th minute header was all it took for The Lions to overcome a woeful Soessch 90. Chris Dickson's freekick was turned over the line by Bruno Schwartz as FC Soessch picked up all three points against Herman Park. And finally, Port Patrick continue to look like the pick of the promoted sides with a 3-2 win at home to NBB.

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

When it starts to go wrong, it can often really go wrong; this being the case with Port Sebastian throwing away a 3-1 lead to draw at home with Hollin. The side's disintegration, which has coincided with the league reaching it's half way stage continued, as Chris Jack and Fred Dawson struck in the closing stages, to leave the home fans raging a manager Conner Watts, who had presided over a similar debacle last season. It was always going to be written in the scrip, Dawson, the striker deemed surplus to requirements, would be the one to deal a fatal blow to his former charges. And the 22-year-old did just that on 86 minutes when he scrambled the ball home form inside the six-yard-box. The importance of this result was made all the more apparent when news of Handon United's 1-0 win over Cornellians came through. In what had been one of the most eagerly anticipated matches of the season so far, Serge Mavididi's well taken strike at the start of the second half was all that separated the teams and gave United a return to the top of the table for the first time in three seasons. They were helped, of course, by Lammerton's inability to defeat FC Soessch, although it is hardly easy to get a result like that. Konstantin Holstad scored twice for Soessch, as they battled their way to a hard earned point against a Hornets side that have been impressive this season. There was also a good win this week for the Lions, who defeated NBB 3-1 with goals from Davy Ellan, Billy Small, and Jago Avelione. East Vormsi born teenager Aleksander Heino-Watanabe, was on target for The Blues.

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

Somehow Port Patrick have found themselves knocking on the door of UICA football, and this weeks 3-1 win at Lammerton really underlined the fact that they are a quality side. The Hornets were second to every ball as The Breakers totally outplayed them with the impressive Heron Crew giving his side the lead. The big striker rose highest to turn in a Esther Abner corner. Willie McIntyre added a second early in the second half, and despite Mars Alexandersson pulling one back for Lammerton, Cerys Kennicot rounded things off with a left footed strike from the edge of the box. Cornellians needed a big recovery from the 1-0 defeat to Handon United, and thy got it in the form of a 4-0 win over New Island. There is barely a week goes by where Eloisa Purrinton is not on the score sheet, and this proved no different. The Gloriaxian's strike opened the scoring, and was followed up by goals from Mark Kelman, Kathryn Kvanderwyk, and Cosmin Dobrescu. Port Sebastian were also able to take advantage of both Lammerton's defeat and Handon United's draw with Marionville, as they won 3-1 at City go back to the top of the table. Paul Coine scored yet again for Porty, as did Paul Doig and Demba Traore, in what is shaping up as a great debut SPL season for the Semarland youngster.

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

The Warriors look set to be one of the sides heading into the final third of this season as title challengers, and their 5-4 victory in an animated New Belfast derby was the latest in a line impressive results. Jock Sonny's players had their work cut out against a very lively Blues side, and in particular youngsters Aleksander Heino-Watanabe and Shu tested the home side time and time again. With the match every evenly poised it was a goal from Adrienne O'Callahan, which settled matters however, as the Quebecois winger slid in at the back post to turn Holly Addison's miss hit cross over the line. A defeat for Lammerton coupled with wins for Handon sides Port Sebastian and United this week, left us asking if this is the beginning of a two horse race. Isaac Nketiah, Nik Konstidios and Esteke Inanuk all scored for Handon Uited as they made light work of Lammerton City; and Emeline Millet (2), Chiyoko, and Joey Bia did likewise for The Steelmen in their encounter with D'Ittile. In spite of these impressive performances, the in form side this season continues to be Port Patrick who made Athletic look very average as they put four past them at Galloway Lane.

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

Cornellians were able to breath a sigh of relief as many in the media were predicting an upset when they played host to Port Patrick. The Eagles managed to settle some early nerves with a stunning Cosmin Dobrescu freekick, the Jedorian star curling in a 35-yard-effort, in what will surely be added to the goal of the season shortlist. The Breakers got themselves back into the game, and indeed they responded through former Handon Ladies striker Jane Swanson, who was able to latch onto a Kevin Morton pass. In the end however, it was the champions who had the last word and Messilan midfielder Eula Richard won the game with her sixth strike of the season. One of the fiercest matches in Schottic football is the Handon derby, and when it is an old-fashioned six-pointer, the stakes are even higher. Handon United took the lead in this match through Colin Donaldson, but they never truly looked comfortable and a Joey Bia double in the second half took Port Sebastian back to the top of the table, with a great win over their arch-rivals.

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

With the season already reaching the final third the league seems to have tightened up a little, and that continued to be the case this week with Handon United dropping points for a second consecutive week, this time at New Island. There was also reprieve for Lammerton this weekend, as they managed to win 4-3 against The Warriors, in a match which had defeat written all over it. The Hornets have been accused of being over reliant of the attacking three of Cooper, McCormack, and Alexandersen, but on this occasion that trust was not misplaced, as a spirited Whalers side were beaten off over the course of 90 minutes. Port Patrick somehow continue to surprise everyone with a win over Marionville which keeps them up near the top of the table. The North Handon side were outstanding for the fifth week running with goals form Kevin Morton and Heron Crew. Cornellians also continued to right the wrongs from their dismal start to the season, with a 2-0 win at La Gorlions, a tricky place to pick up points. And finally, Port Sebastian took the opportunity to open up a six point gap at the top of the table, as Chiyoko and Demba Traore gave their side the easiest of wins over Hillstreet.

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

New Island followed up their shock result against United with an even more impressive 1-0 win over league leaders Port Sebastian. The result, coupled with wins for Handon United and Lammerton means that there is only four points separating the top three as we reach week 25. After those three comes The New Belfast Warriors on 48 points, but if truth be told, they have fallen away a little over the last four or five weeks. Snapping at their heels are this seasons surprise package Port Patrick, as they leapfrog Cornellians and Kings Park with both teams playing out a 1-1 draw. 8th 9th and 10th are FC Soessch, Marionville and La Gorlions, who will all be disappointed to be stranded so far down the table. There is little surprise that Hillstreet, Herman Park, and 90 are all in the relegation mix, but one side we are shocked to see is New Island. So promising coming into the season they will be hoping to climb out of trouble at the expense of Lammerton City.

Monthly Awards:

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Port Sebastian         25   17   4   4    59   32  +27    55
 2 Handon United          25   15   7   3    45   30  +15    52
 3 Lammerton              25   16   3   6    59   35  +24    51
 4 New Belfast Warriors   25   15   3   7    58   43  +15    48
 5 Port Patrick           25   14   5   6    50   40  +10    47
 6 Kings Park             25   14   4   7    58   49   +9    46
 7 Cornellians            25   14   3   8    58   41  +17    45
 8 FC Soessch             25   12   7   6    56   43  +13    43
 9 Marionville            25   11   7   7    56   50   +6    40
10 La Gorlions            25   10   9   6    40   31   +9    39
11 Hollin                 25   12   2  11    45   44   +1    38
12 D'Itille               25   11   2  12    52   53   −1    35
13 Granton Vale           25   11   2  12    33   42   −9    35
14 New Belfast Blues      25    8   5  12    40   41   −1    29
15 Port James Athletic    25    8   4  13    40   49   −9    28
16 Lammerton City         25    6   6  13    40   55  −15    24
17 New Island             25    6   5  14    16   32  −16    23
18 Hillstreet             25    5   3  17    23   52  −29    18
19 Soessch 1990           25    1   4  20     6   37  −31     7
20 Herman Park            25    0   3  22     8   43  −35     3

Schottic Cup -- Quarterfinals

Handon United 1–0 Regional Development Side A
Lammerton City 1–0 Kirk Preston United
Kings Park 5–3 New Belfast Blues
New Belfast Warriors 3–1 Lammerton

by **Schottia** » Fri Jan 01, 2016 12:53 pm

Matchday Twenty six - Thirty eight

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

Handon United threw everything except the kitchen sink at it this week in an attempt to dislodge their city neighbours from top spot, and in spite of their best efforts, Port Sebastian continued to hold on with a business like 2-0 win against Soessch 1990. United threw caution to the wind and managed to inflict a massive 5-2 defeat on Port Patrick, in one of their best performances of the season. Alf Seggerson was instrumental in the victory, as was young Christian Lovenkrands, who continues to grow in stature. Another talented United kid, Rachael Del Arro, grabbed her sides fifth goal to complete the demolishing on 89 minutes. With several of the top sides all suffering setbacks, the only other potential title contender to come out of this weekend in good shape was Kings Park, their win over Marionville moving them up to equal fourth. No one enjoys facing the Kings Park attack, and even the normally outstanding Pearce Brice was helpless as the Royals found the net four times. Pick of the bunch was a Francis Keelinan freekick, which the Schottia cap curled in under the crossbar from the angle of the box. Port James Athletic continued to show the odd sign of life as the somehow produced a 5-0 win against Granton Vale out of nowhere. Dharla Bhosz scored twice, and there were also goals from young Semar, Remaine Clarke, Ismal Keirut, and Northern Sunriser Tomoaki Neyama.

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

This week Cornellians managed to produce the form of champions, whith a 7-0 wipe out of a sorry Granton Vale, who really seem to be flagging at the moment. Cosmin Dobrescu scored either side of half time, as the Jedorian put in a five star performance, after Santiago Lowe had opened the scoring five minutes in. Captain Eloisa Purrinton added a fourth from the penalty spot, after Eula Richard was downed by the keeper. Kathryn Kvanderwyk, Damien Sturridge, and Mark Kelman all contributed late goals, but by then the result was a forgone conclusion. Given their terrible start to the season, the recent up turn in fortunes will be of massive relief to manager Alexander Pearce who must feel a lot more secure in his job as his side move up into UICA contention. With Port Sebastian held to a 0-0 draw with FC Soessch, Handon United and Lammerton once more took the chance to narrow the gap. United managed to hold of an always-dangerous La Gorlions; Nik Konstidios, and Serge Mavididi both found the net in the second half. However, it was Lammerton who created the real talking point, with a 6-2 win over D'Itille. There was two goals apiece for both the Johns, Cooper and McCormack, with the additional firepower provided by Mars Alexanderssson and Aaron Marcie.

Port Sebastian 1–0 New Belfast Blues
Soessch 1990 1–0 Herman Park
Hillstreet 1–2 Lammerton
D'Itille 3–1 Port James Athletic
Hollin 1–4 Cornellians
Granton Vale 3–6 Marionville
New Belfast Warriors 3–1 Lammerton City
Kings Park 2–1 Handon United
La Gorlions 1–0 New Island
Port Patrick 2–2 FC Soessch

Cornellians took the momentum from their massive win over Granton, in to this week's encounter with Hollin. It is never easy to go to East Belker and get a win, however, The Eagles did that in comfortable fashion, with three second half goals which saw them run out deserved winners 4-1. Fred Dawson had intially cancelled out Eula Richard's opener, however Cornellians came back with goals from Eloisa Purrinton, Mabel Finnemark, and Cosmin Dobrescu to give the champs a well earned victory. Kings Park this week managed to boost their UICA football hopes, and at the same time, put a dent in those of their opponents Handon United. Marko Simonsen opened the scoring for United with a deflected shot from the edge of the 18-yard-box, but the Royals were able to turn things around, Erin Braden and Alan Doolan both converting in the latter stages. Finally there was still no sign of improvement for poor Granton Vale, who had to endure a 6-3 thumping at the hands of Marionville. Pasargan teenager Vojnomir Nikolic scored twice along with goals from Michael Maxwell, Barry Stewart, and, Jarred Clotterman. Jack Hobbs, Tommy Wilson, and Scott Cooper found the net for the Beachcombers in what was tantamount to little more than consolation.

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

This week's big match was a Handon derby, and the second battle of the ports. Port Patrick, on this occasion, came out on top after what was a very difficult battle, winning 5-4. Heron Crew, once again, proved to be the difference between the sides and his 82 minute goal, turning in a Willie McIntyre cross at full stretch, kept his side in the UICA chase. Handon United will also be very happy with their performance this week, a 3-0 win over The Warriors is no mean feat. Isaac Nketiah scored a great goal in this match, when he caught a Rimo Hemnes cross on the volley, finding the corner of the goal. The strike was the icing on the cake in a game where we really saw United at their best. Cornellians also kept the goals coming with a 3-1 win over D'Itille. Sturridge, Narita, and Lowe all scored, and had their side started the season in this fashion, they would not have nearly as much ground to make up now. There was also a win for Lammerton who are desperately trying to keep pace, and a 2-0 win over the Lions for FC Soessch, who have been left toiling this season for some inexplicable reason.

Port Sebastian 1–0 Herman Park
New Belfast Blues 1–2 Lammerton
Soessch 1990 0–1 Port James Athletic
Hillstreet 2–4 Cornellians
D'Itille 0–2 Marionville
Hollin 1–1 Lammerton City
Granton Vale 0–0 Handon United
New Belfast Warriors 5–0 New Island
Kings Park 4–1 FC Soessch
La Gorlions 1–1 Port Patrick

A late Emilne Millet goal was all Port Sebastian needed to take all three points from their home tie with Herman Park, though in truth they rode their luck at times. The Ko-oren midfielder took advantage of a mix up in the Millers' defence, when Jack Breeks' back pass was hit woefully short, drilling the loose ball home under Tom Ryan. Cornellians continue to do their goal difference no harm at all with a 4-2 win at Hillstreet. Eloisa Purrinton scored a first half hat trick, and there was also a late strike from Kathryn Kvanderwyk, who is really starting to come on to a game. Both Hillstreet's goals, one from Phillip Hanalii and one from Dirk Levee, came against the run of play. Granton Vale put in a top defensive display this week to keep Handon United at bay, as the club continue to battle for their very lives. Ironically it was Nathaniel Bueno-Wells, sent out by United to get some first team experience, who put in the best performance, holding his parent club to a 0-0 draw. Finally New Belfast Warriors put in a 'Five-Star' performance to leave New Island stuck in relegation trouble. James Blantery opened the scoring, as he rose to nod in a Craig O'Maramy corner, shortly before Holly Addison's surging run into the box drew on a foul from Andy Berry, with Ivan Archic tucking away the resulting penalty. O'Maramy added a third just after half time, and Jenny Lundergrand and Kris Scott both scored late on in the resounding victory.

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

Cornellians, Lammerton (and now we really have to include Port Patrick), all recorded wins as the top two slipped up, to ensure that the title race would go to the wire. Languising in the bottom half at one point this season, Cornellians now find themselves a good bet to pick up the title as they edged out bottom side Soessch 1990, Mark Kelman scoring the only goal. Lammerton, by contrast, were emphatic in their victory, putting five past Herman Park with no reply. It's debatable whether or not there is a better striker in the country than John McCormack right now, and he was again in the thick of it, as his side launched attack after attack. If the Hornets are able to keep going the way they are, then they have a great chance of being the first side other than FC Soessch to take the title out of the Greater Handon area in 25 years. Port Patrick's display was all the more impressive because of whom they were playing, last year's runners-up Kings Park. The combination of Heron Crew through the middle, supported by two good, early crossers in the form of Cerys Kennicot and Willie McIntyre seems to be a winning formula. On paper this squad of players really shouldn't be this good, but somehow the SPL defences just don't have an answer to this style of play. Crew was again on the score sheet with two well taken goals, finding himself in the crazy position of competing with the likes of Eloisa Purrinton, Ivan Archic, Alan Doolan, and Serge Mavididi for top scorer.

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

Port Sebastian managed to get the response they were looking for following the disappointment of their 2-2 draw with La Gorlions. Stopping Lammerton from running wild is no easy thing to do, but they managed it, and in true Porty form, they nicked a goal of their own to keep the title challenge on. Jack Baxter was the unlikely source of the goal, jumping highest to head in a trademark Paul Doig long throw. It was also a much better weekend for Handon United who defeated D'Itille 6-3 away. Despite their opponents looking very strong in attack, United managed to stay strong and three goals in the last 20 minutes gave the score line a much better look. United had five different scorers in this match, showing that they have a lot of goals in their current side. Cornellians will not be so happy however, somehow letting things slip, as they were stunned 3-1 at NBB. David Millar, Shu, and Sam Saxon all scored for the blues, with Damian Sturridge knocking in a consolation goal for The Eagles.

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

This really was a chance for Port Sebastian to finish matters with only five fixture left but their inability to take their chances against Kings Park, has allowed Cornellians and Lammerton right back on their heels. Alan Doolan sprung up on 54 minutes to tuck away a Felix Scholl pass, as Porty spurned their fair share of chances to win the game early on. Handon United were left unable to take advantage of the situation however, as they went down 3-2 to the seemingly relegation bound Hillstreet. Cornellians and Lammerton did on the other hand, record victories, even if they did have to work hard for 1-0 wins over Herman Park and Port James respectively. Elsewhere in a nine-goal-thriller, the Warriors defeated La Gorlions at Danu Parc, with thanks to an Adrienne O'Callahan double. Hollin upset FC Soessch 2-1 as Die rote Teufel's season goes from bad to worse. And Finally Port Patrick were at it again with a comfortable 3-0 win over Granton Vale, Kevin Morton putting in a stalwart performance in the midfield.

Port Sebastian 2–0 Port James Athletic
Lammerton 2–2 Cornellians
Herman Park 0–1 Marionville
New Belfast Blues 0–0 Lammerton City
Soessch 1990 0–2 Handon United
Hillstreet 0–1 New Island
D'Itille 1–1 FC Soessch
Hollin 1–0 Port Patrick
Granton Vale 1–1 La Gorlions
New Belfast Warriors 1–2 Kings Park

The feature match this week was Lammerton verses Cornellians, with neither side likely to be happy with anything other than a win. In the end no one had their way, as The Eagles came from behind twice to deny The Hornets on their home patch. Northwestern Sunriser Mars Alexandersson's shot from the edge deflected in off of Scott Burton to give her side the lead after ten minutes, before Cosmin Dobrescu chipped Tim fines five minutes later to level things. The match remained evenly poised for the rest of the first half before John Copper restored his sides lead with a quarter of an hour to go. Salvaging an important point for her side was Eula Richard, the Messilan midfielder receiving a nod down from substitute Mabel Finnemark to end things 2-2. For the other sides at the top of the table, it was a good week for Kings Park, Handon United, Port Sebastian. League leaders Porty beat Athletic 2-0 with goals form Paul Coine and Demba Traore, United had Nik Konstidious and Christian Lovenkrands to thank for a similar score line against 1990, and Francis Keelinan and Darren O'Brian helped The Royals to a 2-1 win over the Warriors.

New Belfast Warriors 4–3 Port Sebastian
Kings Park 0–1 Granton Vale
La Gorlions 2–1 Hollin
Port Patrick 0–1 D'Itille
FC Soessch 1–0 Hillstreet
New Island 1–0 Soessch 1990
Handon United 4–0 New Belfast Blues
Lammerton City 2–0 Herman Park
Marionville 6–4 Lammerton
Cornellians 2–0 Port James Athletic

Four matches to go and things could not be much tighter as Port Sebastian, Lammerton, Cornellians, and Handon United battle it out for the title and a spot in the Champion's Cup. This may become a fixture, which comes back to haunt Port Sebastian the early pace setters, stumbling 4-3 against a Warriors side who are all but out of the running. Chiyoko Sakuraka, Jonathan Bia, and Paul Coine all scored for Porty, but it proved to be the case that there was still some fight in The Warriors, who struck with a Craig O'Maramy double, and goals from Jenny Lundergrand, and Ian Wilson. Lammerton, in an even higher scoring match, lost 6-4 to Marionville, and will feel that the have potentially blown their chance. Barry Stewart once again was the driving force behind everything the Old Boys did, and surely cannot be ignored for a Schottia cap any longer. The 28-year-old has also struck up a great partnership this season with Pasargan teenager Vojnomir Nikolic who was on the score sheet again today. Despite a great disply from Aaron Marcie in the midfield, Lammerton will have to hope for slip-ups now if they are to be crowned champions. For Handon United it was a flawless performance with no such problems. Isaac Nketiah, Serge Mavididi, and Alfred Seggerson (2) all found the net in the 4-0 rout of NBB. And Cornellains dished up an equally comfortable 2-0 win at Lochend, Kathryn Kvanderwyk, and Triffid Ramsey both scoring with will taken goals.

Port Sebastian 3–3 Cornellians
Port James Athletic 4–3 Marionville
Lammerton 0–0 Lammerton City
Herman Park 1–0 Handon United
New Belfast Blues 4–2 New Island
Soessch 1990 0–0 FC Soessch
Hillstreet 0–1 Port Patrick
D'Itille 2–1 La Gorlions
Hollin 1–1 Kings Park
Granton Vale 6–2 New Belfast Warriors

What a chance it was for any of the top teams to put them selves in the driver's seat, but the pressure was obviously immense, as none of the top four clubs managed to win their matches. When looking back on this weekend at the end of the season, droped points and the opportunity missed will surely be apparent. Port Sebastian had leave it very late to salvage a point at home to Cornellians, Joey Bia was the hero of the hour, and may very well have rescued any chances the host side had of winning the title. The Eagles are playing some very good football at them moment, and a point here, away from home, would normally be considered a good result. However despite being the on form team at the moment, they're terrible start to the season means that retaining their title will be hard. Lammerton were next to pass-up the chance as the Lammerton derby ended goalless. Handon United imploded with one of their worst results all season, losing 1-0 to Herman Park. In fact the only side to come out of this week with anything pisitve to say were Port Patrick, who won 1-0 at Hillstreet to close the gap to the UICA spots even further.

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

The week where Port Sebastian finally bottled it. The side went down 2-0 to Granton Vale, and despite laying siege to the Beachcombers' goal for about 60 minutes they couldn't recover, and the match ended 2-2. Will Rybka and Jack Hobbs struck early on as Granton Vale had an excellent opening 30 minutes. Porty went all out attack, and Emilne Millet and Demba Traore struck back, but somehow Granton were able to hold out. Handon United went top of the table with only one game left to play, and did it in style defeating Lammerton 4-1 at Harbour Hll. Aya Bernman opened the scoring for United, with Isaac Nketiah adding another soon after. John McCormack pulled one back for the Hornets before half time, but second half goals from Rachael Del Arro and Nik Konstidious gave the home side a comfortable win. It is still mathematically possible for Cornellians at finish top of the league, but with Handon United winning comfortably, it will take a miracle. Either way they continued to finish strongly, and in terms of points gained in the second half of the season, are miles ahead. There was no danger of them coming away from their visit to Marionville with anything less than a win, and the made the Old Boys, who are no slouches, look very average. Tsumugi Narita and Cosmin Dobrescu sprayed passes round all afternoon, as the Eagles were always half a pace ahead of their opponents.

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

Going into the final game the title was Handon United's to throw away. Three sides could have clinched it this weekend although Cornellians needed something special. Both The Eagles and Porty ran out 4-1 winners in their fixtures so the pressure was back on United with most people expecting they could handle a very average Port James team. However these things in football are never so easy and a nervy United performance led to a 0-0 draw and handed the title to Port Sebastian, something few would have bet on at the start of the season. It has been a long road for Port Sebastian and they will get a first taste of Champion's Cup football next season, in Schottia's second year entering in the UICA competitions. There have been a few signs of life in the SPL with a huge push over the last two years, both to retain top talent and stop player seeking a higher level of competition abroad, this has been coupled with an attempt to bring in new and exciting players. It will be interesting to see if Port Sebastian can keep a hold of the stars, which delivered this title success as last time round both Gary Corsie and Mark Allen headed quickly to the exit door soon after. Grabbing the third Globe Cup spot were Lammerton, and it was well deserved as the Hornets have had another vey good year. Kings Park, Port Patrick, and New Belfast Warriors just missed out. At the bottom of the table, Herman Park, Soessch 1990, Hillstreet, and New Island all go down to the second tier, with New Island coming closest to staying up, just one point off of Lammerton City. It will be mind numbingly disappointing for the South Berwick side, who have becoming something of a yoyo club in recent years.

Monthly Awards:

Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Port Sebastian         38   23   8   7    84   50  +34    77 Champion's Cup
 2 Handon United          38   22  10   6    74   42  +32    76 Globe Cup, Cygnus Cup
 3 Cornellians            38   23   6   9    94   55  +39    75 Globe Cup
 4 Lammerton              38   23   5  10    90   56  +34    74 Globe Cup
 5 Kings Park             38   22   5  11    85   68  +17    71
 6 Port Patrick           38   21   7  10    77   60  +17    70
 7 New Belfast Warriors   38   21   5  12    86   72  +14    68
 8 FC Soessch             38   17  12   9    74   59  +15    63
 9 Marionville            38   18   9  11    91   82   +9    63
10 Hollin                 38   17   6  15    66   64   +2    57
11 La Gorlions            38   14  13  11    57   51   +6    55
12 D'Itille               38   17   4  17    76   79   −3    55
13 New Belfast Blues      38   14   8  16    63   60   +3    50
14 Port James Athletic    38   14   6  18    63   69   −6    48
15 Granton Vale           38   14   5  19    51   75  −24    47
16 Lammerton City         38    9  10  19    56   81  −25    37
17 New Island             38   10   6  22    26   54  −28    36 relegated 
18 Hillstreet             38    8   3  27    44   82  −38    27 relegated 
19 Soessch 1990           38    2   5  31     7   55  −48    11 relegated 
20 Herman Park            38    2   5  31    14   64  −50    11 relegated

Player of Year:
1st: Emiline Millet -- Port Sebastian

A player with immense star quality and one of the few world-class acts in this league. The Ko-oren pulls all the strings for the champions in midfield, and has to take some of the credit for their triumph. Combines passing, with great forward runs which draw the opposition out of position, and the kind of clinical finishing which can be the difference in many fixtures.

2nd: Cerys Kennicot -- Port Patrick

There just had to be a Port Patrick player on this list somewhere, it was only fair fallowing their outstanding achievements this year. The 22-year-old is arguably the pick of the bunch, and like many of her teammates, she has come out of nowhere and surprised us all with her standard of performance. Kennicot is an agile winger, who likes to cross the ball early, and is never slow in her support of the attackers.

3rd: Eloisa Purrinton -- Cornellians

Top goal scorer in the league for two year running now, and the clubs top scorer for the last four. It is hard to believe the club captain is only 24, as she plays with all the confidence of a seasoned striker. Purrinton is absolutely lethal anywhere around the 18-yard-box, and has squeezed home some shots from the tightest of angles.

4th: Serge Mavididi -- Handon United

His partnership with Isaac Nketiah was pivotal for United as they got back to winning ways this season. Manager Carl Sorensen will no doubt be desperate to keep the pair of loanees next season, should the club give him the kind of budget he needs to sign the duo permanently. Mavididi just gets the nod over his partner for this award because of his goal contribution, and perhaps the playing style of United suits him ever so slightly more. With a midfielder like Seggerson in the side, who can curl in set pieces all day long the 19-year-old's areal ability comes in handy.

5th: Barry Stewart -- Marionville

Marionville's finest, Stewart has been on the award shortlist two years running now. Nothing about his play is particularly eye-catching, but he never mislays a pass, and his ability to press the midfield is really second to none. Unquestionably a Schottia call up, and interest from some bigger clubs must be in the pipeline for this guy.

Golden Boot (Top Scorer):
1st: 33 Eloisa Purinton -- Cornellians

2nd: 26 Demba Traore -- Port Sebastian

3rd: 22 Heron Crew -- Port Patrick

= 4th: 20 Ivan Archic -- Warriors

| Serge Mavididi -- Handon United

5th: 19 John McCormack -- Lammerton

=6th: 17 Paul Coine -- Port Sebastian

| Vojnomir Nikolic -- Marionville

8th: 16 Francis Keelinan -- Kings Park

9th: 15 Felix Scholl -- Kings Park

=10th: 14 Konstantin Holstad -- FC Soessch

| John Cooper -- Lammerton

| Jenny Lindergrand -- New Belfast Warriors

| Cosmin Dobrescu -- Cornellians

| Alan Doolan Kings Park

| Isaac Nketiah --Handon United

| Mars Alexandersson -- Lammerton

Young Player of The Year:
1st: Serge Mavididi -- Handon United

How do you even begin to pick the winner of this award with the influx of so many talented young players this season. Indeed, although they did not make the short list, a special commendation must go out to the likes of Isaac Nketiah, Vojnomir Nikolic, Stephan Gargo, Esther Abner, and Demba Traore, who in previous seasons would have been in with a shout. However one player just slightly out shown the others and that was Semar Wonderkid Serge Mavididi, who gets to place the prestigious award in his trophy cabinet.

2nd: Tsumugi Narita -- Cornellians

Poise, pace, and technical ability; everything you would expect from a young Kirisakian. Narita brings something very different to the Cornellians midfield five, and as well as dictating the tempo in the centre of the park, she has a habit of popping up and scoring impotant goals.

3rd: John McCormack -- Lammerton

The best player to come through the ranks at Lammerton since Eoin Killanen. John McCormack has been central to the revival at the Hornets over the last two years. After serving his apprenticeship on the wing as a teenager he is now centre stage in this Lammerton attack, spearheading the goal threat.

4th: Joey Bia -- Port Sebastian

Bia has had his best season in a couple of years, and has really gotten back to what he is good at, running at defenders and creating opportunities for his side. When he plays like this it is easy to see why he was capped at the age of 17.

5th: Mars Alexandersson -- Lammerton

The Northwestern Sunriser has been one of the standout players this season, and something of a surprise package. She has been fantastic going forward and played a very important role as her side secured a Globe Cup spot for a second year running.

Manger of The Year:
1st: John Sedder -- Lammerton

Lammeton made the Globe Cup for a second year running, in what has been a great turn around for the club. There can be no doubt that Sedder's stewardship has been integral to this team making a title challenge right up to the last game of the season.

2nd: Des Pleent -- Port Patrick

From winning the Regional Division A title - to sixth in the SPL says it all. His team and his players have been a breath of fresh air this year, and he will only hope that he can somehow keep the team together.

3rd: Conner Watts -- Port Sebastian

He was assistant manager last time the team won the title and now he has done it as a manager too. Conner Watts nearly took them all the way last year, but they fell apart at the last minute. This time they only just held their nerve.

4th: Carl Sorensen -- Handon United

Sorensen brought a steeliness to this side fallowing four seasons of underachievement, and only missed out on the title in the last game of the season. He could never have been expected to work miracles in one year, and he will largely be judged on how his side fairs next time round.

5th: Alexander Pearce -- Cornellians

Although the team will be disappointed to have finished third, Cornellians were the on form team towards the end of the season. When you factor in the fact that Pearce had to cut a lot of the playing squad and backroom staff this year then it wasn't a bad job.

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

Kathryn Kvanderwyk -- Cornellians

Signed from Cassandra City II, free transfer
Went from the fifth tier of Cosumarite football to a player capable of scoring eleven goals for the side finishing third in the SPL. Kvanderwyk's energy really galvanised The Eagles in the second half of the season, and was a extremely effective when used as an impact sub. The teenager scored in the Globe Cup for her club, and her exploits even earned her a call up to the Di Bradini Cup. The fans will be hoping to see a lot more of industrious forward next season.

Team of The Year:

GK == Lucas D'Araby

DF == Esther Abner

- Scott Burton

- Tameka Ninteyseventh

- Triffid Ramsey

MF == Emiline Millet

- Barry Stewart

- Cerys Kennicot

FW == Eloisa Purinton

- Heron Crew

- Serge Mavididi

Schottic Cup -- Semi Finals

Lammerton City 0–2 Handon United
New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Kings Park

Schottic Cup -- Final

Handon United 2–1 New Belfast Warriors

This year's ultimate match was the Schottic Cup final, were Handon United met last years winners New Belfast Warriors. It seems that in spite of his terrible league form Jock Sonny has some of the cup magic about him. After a very open first half, the score remained 0-0 even though both side had good opportunities in front of goal. Ivan Archic went closest for the Warriors as his side-footed effort from near the penalty spot drew a good save from Lucas D'Araby. United's best chance fell to Serge Mavididi, as the big striker headed Alf Seggerson's corner just wide. All the damage was done for United in a seven-minute spell early in the second half, when first Isaac Nketiah, then Colin Donaldson found the net in something of a Warriors collapse. The New Belfast side then threw everything they had at the opponents and got a foothold back into the game on 80 minutes, when Adrienne O'Callahan's pass for Holly Addison left the Arcadia born midfield in space. The 23-year-old then picked out Archic who scored with a textbook striker's finish to set up a grandstand ending. The Warriors had chances to take it to extra time, but in the end the game finished 2-1, to cap off a good year for the boys and girls in maroon and white.

Regional Divisions - Second Tier
In a bid to make football more sustainable in Schottia the second tier is split into four Regional Divisions. This was in an attempt to cut down travel time for fans and players, while giving a greater number of sides a chance at promotion. The champions of each league win promotion to the SPL, and the side finishing bottom is relegated to the Regional Conference. Other sides may be relegated too depending on which sides come down from the SPL, keeping the number of teams in each league at ten.

Division A - Greater Handon, Marionville, New Belfast, and New Scotland.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Regional Development Side A   36   21   8   7    68   44  +24    71 Ineligible for promotion. 
 2 Dundee                        36   18   7  11    64   46  +18    61 Promoted
 3 Marionville Thistle           36   17   7  12    61   55   +6    58
 4 Handon North                  36   15  11  10    58   49   +9    56
 5 Kirk Preston                  36   15   9  12    45   46   −1    54
 6 Bridge of Hawick              36   14   7  15    49   57   −8    49
 7 Huntly Hunters                36   12  12  12    37   41   −4    48
 8 Oxley Court                   36   12  11  13    46   39   +7    47
 9 Adelly Road                   36    7  14  15    42   51   −9    35
10 Cory Bay                      36    2   8  26    22   64  −42    14 Relegated

In Division A there was a little bit of history made as the Development Side cruised home to lift the title. This was the first time one of the four national academy sides won their respective league, and they did it in some style, finishing ten points ahead of Dundee in second. RDS:A are obviously ineligible for promotion, and as a result Dundee make a swift return to the top division. RDS:A would have no doubt been an excellent top flight addition, and Schottic football will reap the benefits of their success in year to come. That said, the side did take advantage of a new ruling allowing them to bring in two overseas players and Anders Karlsberg (SEM), and Dadinho (WSI) both aquitted themselves well. The Western Sunriser, formed an excelent partnership with 21-year-old Višnja Brankovič, who caused opposition defences endless problems.

Player of The Year:

1st: James Berkeley Dundee (DRV)
2nd: Holly Addison RDS:A (SCH/Arcadia)
3rd: Anders Karlsberg RDS:A (SEM)

Golden Boot:
25, Dadinho RDS:A (WSI)
22, Evangeline Querón Handon North (SCH)
18, Višnja Brankovič RDS:A (SCH)

Division B - Central South Schottia, Lammerton, Eastern Eusebia, Port James, and Belker.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Oak Park Celtic               36   21  11   4    80   38  +42    74 Promoted
 2 Mucusia                       36   20  12   4    60   33  +27    72
 3 Lammerton Wonderers           36   17  10   9    63   45  +18    61
 4 Wallshill                     36   18   7  11    47   39   +8    61
 5 Regional Development Side B   36   17   6  13    54   47   +7    57
 6 Port James                    36   16   7  13    56   51   +5    55
 7 Lammerton Eels                36   11  10  15    58   58    0    43
 8 Central Stars                 36   10  10  16    45   51   −6    40
 9 Frank Region Stars            36    5   4  27    33   82  −49    19
10 Berferd                       36    3   7  26    17   69  −52    16 Relegated

Division C - The North Islands, La Gorla, and Bergstadt.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Döllar                        36   26   8   2    76   36  +40    86 Pomoted
 2 Regional Development Side C   36   26   6   4    71   29  +42    84
 3 Danatun                       36   21   7   8    61   37  +24    70
 4 Allous VB                     36   19   4  13    54   45   +9    61
 5 Stalker Bay                   36   16   8  12    47   43   +4    56
 6 Jena VB                       36   14   9  13    52   45   +7    51
 7 La Harve                      36   14   9  13    48   41   +7    51
 8 Wolbeck                       36    5   9  22    33   67  −34    24
 9 Baumann VB                    36    1   8  27    23   69  −46    11
10 Thestly                       36    1   6  29    21   74  −53     9 Relegated

Division D - New Island

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Berwick United                36   24   5   7    77   36  +41    77 Promoted
 2 New Town Thistle              36   21  10   5    62   31  +31    73
 3 Regional Development Side D   36   21   4  11    58   48  +10    67
 4 Coldstream Farmers Union      36   18  12   6    41   25  +16    66
 5 Garvald                       36   20   4  12    54   35  +19    64
 6 Snubbeak Rock                 36   15   8  13    48   44   +4    53
 7 Berwick Celtic                36   13   6  17    45   49   −4    45
 8 Arnahm                        36    6   9  21    32   59  −27    27
 9 Stevenson Wonderers           36    2  12  22    23   60  −37    18
10 Lewisden United               36    3   4  29    27   80  −53    13 Relegated

Series B Champions' Cup Play-offs

Semi-finals-
Berwick United 3–5 Döllar
Oak Park Celtic 3–5 Regional Development Side A

Third place play-off-
Oak Park Celtic 2–1 Berwick United

Final-
Döllar 1–3 Regional Development Side A

Regional Development Side A, Döllar, and Oak Park Celtic Qualify for the Series B Champions' Cup

by **Schottia** » Mon Jan 25, 2016 8:41 am

Minor Leagues - Non UICA

Womens' Super-League
The Womens' Super-League predates co-ed football in Schottia, but has been kept in place to help ease the transition for female players into the mixed game. The semi-professional set up has, however, produced some of the nations top stars in recent years, and many young women use it as a chance to get first team experience at an early age. With a surprisingly large niche following, the WSL has an exciting brand of football.

.                                 Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Lammerton City                  30   21   2   7    75   40  +35    65
 2 West Coast Warriors             30   18   4   8    51   40  +11    58
 3 Cornellians WFC                 30   15   9   6    48   35  +13    54
 4 Handon Amazons                  30   17   3  10    53   47   +6    54
 5 Handon Ladies                   30   13  10   7    52   38  +14    49
 6 Marionville Reds                30   15   4  11    38   38    0    49
 7 Soessch Ladies                  30   14   6  10    48   39   +9    48
 8 PS Ladies                       30   12   7  11    44   43   +1    43
 9 Handon Eagles                   30   12   6  12    43   41   +2    42
10 Marsia Thunder                  30   10  10  10    38   42   −4    40
11 West Belker Picts               30    9  12   9    42   41   +1    39
12 New Belfast Institute of Arts   30    9   8  13    36   41   −5    35
13 WFC Dundee                      30    8   4  18    38   53  −15    28
14 South Berwick Auks              30    7   4  19    36   50  −14    25
15 North Island Mountaineers       30    5   8  17    26   48  −22    23
16 University of Soessch           30    2   9  19    22   54  −32    15

WSL | Player of The Year:

1st: Flora Klee -- Lammerton City
2nd: Luella Svenskah -- West Coast Warriors
3rd: Mandy Christman -- Cornellians WFC
4th: Ella Colburn -- Handon Ladies
5th: Ash Blackett -- Lammerton City

The Football League of East-Vormsi
The tiny Schottic territory of East Vormsi, and its population of only thirty thousand, have a small largely armature football league. The ten registered sides fiercely contesting the trophy every year, have to battle against gale force winds, frozen pitches, and must occasionally fetch the ball out of the gardens of neighbouring houses.

.                         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Sviby Vikings           36   29   6   1    76   28  +48    93
 2 Lääne Rovers            36   25   8   3    87   37  +50    83
 3 Erstore Sailers         36   22   8   6    85   38  +47    74
 4 Sviby Saints            36   22   6   8    67   32  +35    72
 5 Deriean                 36   16   2  18    57   52   +5    50
 6 Treiskva                36    9   7  20    36   58  −22    34
 7 SC Svortän              36    5  15  16    47   77  −30    30
 8 Kvhansborgers           36    7   6  23    35   76  −41    27
 9 Athletics Club Ömborg   36    6   4  26    44   93  −49    22
10 FC Sviby                36    5   6  25    36   79  −43    21

by **Schottia** » Fri Mar 04, 2016 1:04 pm

Schottic Premier League

2020-21

Preview
-Part One-

Playing squads for the upcoming season, with provisional starting eleven, and notable reserves. Teams listed in no particular order.

Cornellians will be a lot of people's favourites for the title this season and it's easy to see why. The MPL side, turned SPL title chasers have had whirlwind start to life in the Schottic league, winning the title in their debut season and finishing third last time round. Under the stewardship of former Cosumar captain Alexander Pearce, the Eagles have been praised for maintaining their eye-catching football, while having to adjust to the budgetary restraints of their new abode. There have been few changes to the playing staff from last season, as Pearce no doubt looks to settle things down after three years of upheaval. Schottic internationalist Mark Kelman makes way, joining La Esteponera in a $4M move, which should allow the club to keep running a slightly higher wage bill again this season. 33-year-old Nepharim veteran Casey Brind has been brought in after leaving Vermillion Rage on a free transfer, and her experience may well prove crucial. Given the lack of fresh faces, it probably gives us a good indication of Pearce's determination to work with the young players in the squad. Tsumugi Narita has already been a big hit in green and white, while top talents such as Kathryn Kvanderwyk, and Mable Finnemark have also begun to force their way into the fold.

Pound for pound, they should have enough about them to mount a strong title challenge, as illustrated in the way they finished last season, making up huge ground after an terrible start to finish third. First team stars such as Gargo, McNott, Burton, Richard, and Ramsey should all be hitting their prime, so there is every chance we could be about to see the makings of a golden generation at the club. And of course, they have their (not so) secret weapon up front in the form of Eloisa Purinton. The Gloriaxian has been the league's top scorer two years running, and has the kind of quality that few defences have an answer for.

Star Player: Eloisa Purinton (Gloriax) | Rising Star: Tsumugi Narita (Kirisaki)

Prediction: 2nd. Second but they'll be in the race right down to wire, in what looks like it's gearing up to be a possible four horse race. There is no doubt that they will be there or there abouts.

Carl Sorensen made huge inroads in terms of what he needed to achieve with the club's overhaul. The fans will have been relatively happy with the progress made, however the title, which means so much to them still eluded United, who saw it slip into the hands of their oldest rivals. Handon United know nothing other than success, and in a way nothing other than the title will do for many of their supporters. Despite this disappointment, there will be some cause for optimism. United have a good young squad of players, along with a very strong bench, which should allow them to ride out any injuries they might incur (this is something Port Sebastian could struggle with). The club have managed to secure the signatures of rising Semarlandic stars, Isaac Nketiah, and Serge Mavididi - who both impressed on loan last season - in a $12 million deal. The club can also look forward to the further improvement teen prospects Aya Bernman and Christian Lovenkrands, who both look likely to win more starts this season. In addition to this, players like Colin Donaldson, Alf Seggerson, Lucas D'Araby, and Robert Peszke, provide much needed experience, and could be crucial it deciding the final destination of the SPL title.

We expect United to go for more of a 4-4-2, trying to make the most of the Nketiah and Mavididi partnership up front. Marshalling the wings will likely be 19-year-olds Lovenkrands and Berman, with the rock solid pairing of Donaldson and Seggerson in the centre. Defence, however, is where we expect them to be strongest, with Tameka Ninetyseventh playing along side Nathaniel Bueno-Wells who returns form a loan spell at Granton Vale. Peszke keeps his place at right back despite now being the wrong side of thirty-five, and left back Esteke Inanuk completes the line up. As ever, mister dependable between the sticks is Lucas D'Araby, a player everyone will be glad to see extending his career for another season.

Star Player: Alfred Seggerson | Rising Star: Serge Mavididi (Semarland)

Prediction: 1st. Favourites to lift their first title in five years, but we have been here before with United. Sorensen will be taking nothing for granted here, and he will be aware that they are likely to face stiff competition.

It wasn't that Port Sebastian came out of nowhere last season; it was just that none of us saw it coming. While we were fixated on the battle between Handon United and Cornellians we missed Porty who had been sleeping quietly for a couple of seasons. They were predicted to finish 6th, but powered into an early lead and managed resist everything thrown their way. Getting one over on their arch rivals Handon United is always an added bonus for Porty fans, and their triumph would have been the talk of every bar in the north of the city. Manager Conner Watts isn't resting on his laurels either, and has brought in three players over the summer, all of whom could make a big difference. The club moved heaven and hearth to sign Schottic U-21s right-back Esther Abner, in the end having to part with Paul Coine, as well as a decent sum of money for the 21-year-old. Stalwart defender Billy Goodwen has moved on to join up with former manager Barry Gorman at Blue Coast 1981, and will certainly be a miss. To these ends, Watts has moved to bring in highly rated Nepharim youngster Lara Silverstein on loan from Cranequin City, and the 20-year-old should be more than capable of doing a job at this level. Finally, the side have also snapped up Blades ex Magnaeus' Quebecoise striker Giancoma de Jerusalem, who joins the club for undisclosed fee. With Coine making way, the experienced striker will be in the running to start up front along side top scorer Demba Traore.

In terms of tactics Porty will probably stick with what served them well last season. Schottic cap Chris Gonzaö is a solid all round keeper, and will keep hold of the number one jersey. Centre-back Max Paterson is now the only experienced player in an otherwise very young back line, with Abner and Silverstein joining up with Schottic DBC winner Paul Doig who will keep his place at left back. That extremely effective midfield stays intact from last season, with veteran captain Jack Baxter and Ko-oren international Emeline Millet in the centre. Dahamy born Schottia star Joey Bia will continue to be a force on right wing, and fellow youngster, Kirisakian winger Chiyoko Sakuraka will keep her place on the left. Spearheading the attack alongside de Jerusalem, will be surprise Semarlandic package Traore, who was so crucial to the title win last year; his pace and power helping him to an impressive tally of twenty-six goals.

Star Player: Emeline Millet (Ko-oren) | Rising Star: Joey Bia

Prediction: 3rd. This promises to be an exciting race this season, and Porty will no doubt be a big part of it. They don't have the same depth of squad as United or Cornellians, but in terms of starting elevens, they are every bit as good.

The Warriors need a massive turn around this season, after two years of substandard performances. They were ridding the crest of a wave after winning the title three years back, but after that they waved goodbye to manager Jane Gullie and things have seemed to be a struggle ever since. Her replacement, Jock Sonny, came highly recommended, and left his post at Cornellians to join with what was then the most exciting team in the country. After some unacceptable performances, Sonny has left to be replaced by U-21s boss Grant Nean, who they will be hoping can re inject some life into the Whalers. There is a lot of excitement surrounding the signing of 20-year-old Cenian internationalist Tomás Fierro, who could be a big player for the future. Fans will be excited to see the youngster, who left the NSI in a $3.5 million deal, join up with the likes of Holly Addison and Craig O'Maramy in midfield. In addition, Nean has brought in centre-back Giordi Dinara from Cosumarite side Zakhoro Aces in a bit to sure up things in defence; a big problem for the side last season.

Other than these two signings, the nucleus of what is essentially a good side has been kept intact. Midfielders Addison and O'Maramy both have international experience, and should be good enough to hold their own against the top players in this division, and adding Fierro to the mix, they will take some beating. The star of this side though, as ever, is team captain Ivan Archic. The Nekulturnyan has been consistently one of the SPLs top scorers for over a decade now, and is one of those irreplaceable players in attack.

Star Player: Ivan Archic (Nekulturnya) | Rising Star: Tomás Fierro (Ceni)

Prediction: 4th. You have to imagine things will get better for the Warriors. They are a side who will be desperate for a first taste of UICA football, and we feel on this occasion they will make it.

FC Soessch were formerly one of the most consistent sides in the league, regular top four finishers, and one of the main contributors in terms of NT squad players. However a disappointing season, which saw them finish eighth, has meant the club have parted company with manager Jurgen Peters after eight years in charge. His replacement Gary Stood masterminded New Dundee Star's Championship win in Port Christopher two years ago, and he has come in looking to freshen the side up. Out go two former stalwarts of the side, Nathan McDonald and Gerhart Bitter, with the manager bringing in Robert Wessel, Ryan Stoner, and Melanie Ünterhausen as he tries to build his own squad. Wessel moves with the manager from New Dundee in a $1.9 million deal, and he will hope the 29-year-old can help sure up the defence along side Schottic international Chris Okywä. Stoner is an good right-back with bags of experience for Quebecoise side Kingston, and Mel Ünterhausen joins her childhood heroes on a season long loan from Fleftic club Arsenal de Releinthi.

Stoot has shown signs of moving towards a 4-4-2 formation, still the most popular in Schottia by some distance. We can only guess that Ünterhausen was signed as a starter probably to accompany Bruno Schwartz in attack, and they will go with a midfield four of Shearer, Dickson, Ümann, and Holstad, with Holstad the probably deployed in a more advanced role. The Polar Islander is the man who makes this team tick, and his set-pieces have been an important source of goals for the club.

Star Player: Konstantin Holstad (Polar Islandstates) | Rising Star: Johan Shearer (Nephara)

Prediction: 6th. We are predicting that a new management style will help rekindle this side prospects, and they will slowly start to move back up the table. Much will depend on the impact younger players such as Ünterhausen and Shearer can make.

After going through a difficult period, Handon's 'small team' seem to be back among the big boys in the SPL, as consecutive 2nd, and 5th place finishes prove. The Royals have never been the kind of side to splash out wildly in the transfer window - mostly because they don't have the finances - so the signing of Sendoa for 2.5 million is something of a club record. The 18-year-old made an impact in the Cenian league last season, and manager Eric Desmond will be hoping he can continue to improve here. The teenager will start alongside up and coming star Erin Braden, who has been in impressive form since joining form WSL side, West Belker Picts. In addition to this, the loan signing of Corvid Alemane looks like it might be an important one, and by all accounts she had the potential to stand out at this level. They join a team, which boasts the likes of Darren O'Brian, Francis Keelinan, and Jack Gordon, all of whom have Schottic caps to their names. The club have also parted company with veteran striker Alan Doolan, who leaves to join up with Hollin after ten years with the club. Doolan makes way for rising star Estelle Conway, a player who really stood out in the reserves last season.

Star Player: Darren O'Brian | Rising Star: Estelle Conway

Prediction: 7th. Although Kings Park may seem to be slipping backwards, it is more a result of the teams around them improving as opposed to their own decline. That said, they have surprised us all before, and if some of their new recruits can make in impact then you never know.

La Gorlions have made a name for themselves for two reasons; being hard to beat, and having a great home record. A lot of their success can probably be attributed to their home stadium Danu Parc, nestled in the North Mountains, it is the highest altitude venue in the SPL. Eleven round pegs in eleven round holes sums this team up, with tough, no nonsense players like Jago Avelione, and Cosumarite midfielder Fredrick Houban, they take a lot of beating. Inconsistency seems to have been the thing that cost Jade Irwin a senior contract with Crissisbless United, but The Lions will be hoping that she can make an impact her in the SPL. Manager Pascal Voitle has a good track record with bringing in players with a point to prove, and it's true that the family atmosphere at Danu Parc can be something of rehabilitation centre young players. If he is able to work his magic with this Nepharim lass, then they could have found themselves a very good player.

Star Player: Fredrick Houben (Cosumar) | Rising Star: Jade Irvin (Nephara)

Prediction: 9th. It is going to be hard for The Lions who have no way of competing on recourses, but they are definitely a top half side, and last season's 11th place was a flash in the pan.

Star Player: Barry Stewart | Rising Star: Vojnomir Nikolic (Pasagra)

The Old Boys, it seems, are destined to forever be knocking on the door, never quite doing enough to be recognised as a top five/six side. There is a feeling however, that this might be as good a time as any to bring some success to the canal-ways of Marionville, if their young side can step up to the plate. Captain David Daller at centre-back, and star midfielder Barry Stewart form a strong backbone to this side, and the club will be happy to have warded off interest in the latter. Around Daller and Stewart, is a team of talented young players, including Pasargan attacker Vojnomir Nikolic, and former Cornellians winger Larry Goodman. The club have also pulled off a potential bargain, bringing in Jonas Pedersen on a free transfer, who was unlucky to be released after helping his club the LigAnaia R49 title last season. Other players to watch include keeper Pearce Brice, and academy graduate Jonny Birch.

Prediction: 8th. Marionville will be somewhere in that mêlée, for fourth spot. It remains to be seen if they can be the ones to prise the final UICA spot from Lammerton who have finished there two years running.

Port Patrick took all of us by surprise when they stormed the league on their first year back in the top flight, finishing 6th. Every time we thought they were going to fade off, they would pull another result out of the bag, beating some of the league's biggest sides. With some of their top home-grown talent obviously catching the eye of rival clubs, there was the predictable exodus over the summer leaving the squad a little depleted. Top scorer Heron Crew, who has been making the headlines with his performances for Schottia, has left to join Cednia Beach in a $5 million switch. The club also lost the services of their most marketable player, when right-back Esther Abner signed for champions Port Sebastian. Manager Des Pleent has had some flexibility in terms of who has been able to bring in, and he normally has a good eye for a signing. Striker Paul Coine is a player who needs little introduction, and the Schottia internationalist arrives in part exchange for Esther Abner. New wingback Markus Brent, definitely has the ability to improve the side, and where he doesn’t represent the same potential as Abner, he is an experienced pro who has played in one of the world's top leagues. Finally, they will be hoping that Brenecian Loanee Tanya Yeats will integrate well in the midfield, bringing some of that A-League directness to the team. In a way, The Breakers' best bit of business was keeping hold of Cerys Kennicot, after the dynamic winger made a huge impact last season, and will possibly be even more important this time round.

Star Player: Cerys Kennicot | Rising Star: Ruth Finch

Prediction: 10th. They say the second season is always the hardest, and the Breakers will be hoping to avoid the sophomore slump. Although some of the new recruits may prove up to the task, it still remains to be seen how they can cope without Heron Crew's goals.

Lammerton probably need to be taken seriously now, with back-to-back fourth place finishes. They may have lost the highly rated John McCormack in the transfer window, but with the likes of Mars Alexandersson and John Cooper, they will still pack a punch. The side have brought in Brenecian striker Merry Osbourne as a replacement for the Electrum bound McCormack, so that should help to temper the loss slightly. Also Cosumarite teenager Robert Horvat will add a different element to the midfield, slotting in alongside the already impressive Timo Düd and Arron Marcie. On the face of it there is no reason to suggest that The Hornets will be anything other than title challengers again this season, and that may well turn out to be the case. Tactically, what Lammerton do is simple but it works. Alexandersson is a player with the skill to pick out the crucial passes in the final third, and with two good centre-forwards on the park, it brings goals.

Star Player: John Cooper Rising Star: Mars Alexandersson (Unified Sunrise islands)

Prediction: 5th. We think Lammerton will finish fifth this season, more than likely slipping behind a resurgent New Belfast Warriors.

by **Schottia** » Mon Mar 07, 2016 7:59 am

-Part Two-

Port James are going through something of a difficult transition at the moment. Traditionally one of the country's biggest clubs, they are far more used to challenging at the top on the table as opposed to languishing in the bottom half. Despite having a bigger budget than many of the other mid table sides, making headway has been difficult. The players they have brought it, while looking good on paper have simply failed to deliver on the pitch, and in Karla Blackett's second season in charge she has spent big once again, in bid to stop the rot. Talented midfielder Palle Ellsmere joins form Hollin in a $1 million move, after the Polaaskan impressed with his old club. And former Schottia internationalist Nathan McDonald makes the switch from FC Soessch for a similar fee.

Often Port James have been too reliant on captain Joseph Preca, and it seems that the Ellsmere move might be a bid to relieve the pressure on the Eusebian Islander. Elsewhere, the strike force of Dahrla Bhosz, and Remaine Clarke looks solid enough, and former Cornellians winger Ismal Keirut is a strong creative force going forward.

Star Player: Joseph Preca (Eusebian Islands (Ossoria)) | Rising Star: Remaine Clarke (Semarland)

Prediction: 12th. Unfortunately, it's hard to see where the improvement is going to come from, and the once proud club are in danger of sinking into serious decline.

The vivid lime green of D'Itille has been an ever-present sight on the SPL pitches for a few years now despite being one of the top flight's smaller clubs. The club, who are largely made up of home grown players from a tight knit community, have always managed to hit above their weight. This season they have completed the signing of John Scooner from Blue Coast 1981, no doubt with some of the transfer money from the L'Attue sale last season.

The club have always played an exciting brand of football, and long serving manager Liam Seawell keeps things very tight. While no one is expecting a title challenge from this side, there are few who will be worried about them going down.

Star Player: Callum Frir | Rising Star: Dardan Baris

Prediction: 15th. Somewhere in the lower half of the table, but they should be safe enough from the drop.

Always the poorer relation in the city of New Belfast, and the Warriors have always tapped into a lot of the Blues' potential fan-base. They are another one of those clubs who have very little to play for - they aren't really in much danger of going down, but they are never going to be able to put together enough for a charge on the UICA places. This year they have picked up former Soessch midfielder Gerhart Bitter, and there is no doubt that he has the ability to improve the side. They also have a couple of half decent players in the form of keeper Jim Black, and also strikers Shu and David Millar. On top of that Aleksander Heino-Watanabe is a midfielder with the ability to really develop into a good player, and at 18, he is one to watch.

Star Player: David Millar | Rising Star: Aleksander Heino-Watanabe

Prediction: 13th. They are going to be somewhere around the middle of the bottom half. Probably closer to 10th than 20th at the end of the day.

With the problem promoted clubs seem to have in staying in the premier league, it is a testament to Granton Vale, that they have managed it now for two years running. They are another one of those nitty-gritty sides, made up of a lot of hard working players, coming together to get the job done. This season they completed a club record signing of former Lammerton and Warriors midfielder Kris Scott, who has previously been capped for Schottia. Scott Cooper back at the club for a second spell after spending time with Cornellians in the MPL and New Belfast Warriors, it the side's main creative outlet and on his day is a quality winger. The club also have a couple of promising youngsters at either end of the pitch, with 95X keeper Krista Till, and Schottic U-21 striker Jack Hobbs up front.

Star Player: Kris Scott | Rising Star: Jack Hobbs

Prediction: 14th. Hard one to predict as we start to get down amongst the sides with the smaller budgets. They definitely could have a good season, but they are likely to be watching their backs for the most part.

Things seem to be getting tougher for Lammerton City, as their rivals, The Hornets, pull further away. The two sides share the same stadium, although only one of them ever comes close to filling it. City put in battling performances week in week out, and for a team with a smaller attendance than many sides in the regional divisions, that's an important thing. They have a couple of good players in captain Karen Seywel and Shalumite defender Thomas Carmichael, but it's not always enough to get them over the line. This season they have enlisted the services of WSL top scorer Flora Klee from their sister club, and if she is somehow able to replicate her scoring form then it may well save The Princes.

Star Player: Karen Seywel | Rising Star: Flora Klee

Prediction: 19th. This is going to be the year that Lammerton City let it slip after fifteen years in Schottia's top flight.

Hollin, with their passionate supporters, are the beating heart of the Belker region of Schottia. In the past they have done surprisingly well, and regularly have forays into the top seven or eight. All the way through, their side looks like it means business, from keeper Varry Coen, to Robert Morris in defence, Schottic cap Chris Jack, and new signing Alan Doolan up front. It will probably be the case, once again, that their passionate supporters drag them over the finish line, and they will no doubt have a good go at a top half finish.

Star Player: Chris Jack | Rising Star: Neil Brown

Prediction: 11th. Hollin will be somewhere between 9th and 12th, right in the middle of the table.

Berwick United will get a second bite at the cherry, as the yo-yoing effect around promotion and relegation in Schottia continues. They made pretty light work of the Regional Division D, but looking at their squad, it's hard to see where the quality is going to come from. The signing of Eriksson from the academy set up should bring some creativity to the starting line up, but they will need to be better than that if they want make an impact back in the top-flight.

Star Player: Johnny McDonald | Rising star: Justyna Eriksson

Prediction: 19th. Frustrating, but you can't really see how they have any chance of staying up, a long hard season ahead.

No one really expected Dundee to go down two years ago, so it wouldn't have come as much of a surprise to see them bounce straight back up. They actually finished second in their Regional Division, behind RDS:A, but the academy outfit were ineligible for promotion. We are now expecting a decent showing from The Panners especially since former manager Nick Rossy stood down, being replaced by Jock Sonny. They have all the makings of a decent side, with top Port Christopher prospect Liam Gonclaves - team captain, Darvale's James Berkeley - and former Handon United defender Kevin Scougle. Sonny has also brought in Jacques from Christopheran Porty, and he is definitely a young striker who can excite the fans. Another new addition is Nepharim midfielder Gustav Fandrich, who was a bit of a flop in the A-League last season, and will be coming into the SPL with a point to prove.

Star Player: James Berkeley (Darvale) | Rising Star: Liam Gonclaves (Port Christopher

Prediction: 16th. But who knows, maybe they will do a lot better than that. A lot of this depends on how their new recruits can adapt to the SPL.

Döllar probably surprised a few in the Schottic media with a spirited performance, which helped them to promotion last season. The biggest factor in that promotion charge was the impact of defender Mark Ünterhausen, who won rave reviews with some composed performances far beyond his tender age. Predictably, the club were a victim of his success, and they will have to cope without the defender who makes his way to FC Jansberg in Semarland. It will be interesting to see how Döllar are able to handle the pressures of the SPL this season, 16th place - and survival - will be their target.

Star Player: Marcel Smith-Hammond (Semarland) | Rising Star: Kurt Hierholzer

Prediction: 18th. It is going to take a lot for them to claw their way out of the hole they are likely to find themselves it. Their home form is going to be crucial.

Oakpark Celtic are the other professional side from the Belker region of Schottia, and with Hollin, they make up one of the fiercest derbies in the country. They had a good season last year winning out in the Regional Division B to the disappointment of many, out-gunning Mucusia, a side who play much more attractive football. There are probably already a few bets being placed, predicting Celtic to finish bottom of the league. They lack any real out and out star, and it is very difficult to see how their tactics are going to help them get anything out of the matches with the top sides.

Star Player: Cormack Coull | Rising Star: Rhurie Long

Prediction: 20th. Even the most optimistic fans will find it hard to believe anything else is possible.

by **Schottia** » Mon Mar 14, 2016 12:19 am

Matchday one - twelve

Champions Cup -- Prelim Round

Port Sebastian 1–2 Real Azuris (COS)

There was really no way to paint a favourable gloss on this one. Although the Cosumarite side with certainly no fools, Port Sebastian would have really expected better at home, and with a daunting trip to Azuris to follow, Porty's Champions' Cup hopes were left dangling by a thread before they even got off the ground. A late goal from Guaybalese striker, Sean Frazer (a young chap with a suspiciously Schottic sounding surname) cancelled out Giancoma de Jerusalem equaliser to give the visitors a strong lead going into the next leg.

Globe Cup -- Prelim Round

Cornellians 3–0 Everfree Forest HC (ESQ)
Lammerton 1-1 AC Holmenkollen (COS)

Following on from the disappointment in the Champions' Cup, Schottia's Globe Cup hopefuls helped to lift some on the country's UICA gloom. Cornellians looked very comfortable at home, defeating Everfree Forest HC of The Equestrian States, 3-0 thanks to goals from Eloisa Purinton (2) and Kathryn Kvanderwyk. Lammerton managed to put on a brave show also, holding on to a 1-1 draw with a dangerous looking AC Holmenkollen, Mars Alexandersson grabbing the goal for the Hornets.

SPL
D'Itille 3–1 Kings Park
Lammerton City 0–1 Marionville
Granton Vale 1–0 FC Döllar
Lammerton 3–0 FC Soessch
Berwick United 3–2 Hollin
Port Sebastian 5–2 Port James Athletic
La Gorlions 2–1 Cornellians
Port Patrick United 2–0 New Belfast Blues
New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Oak Park Celtic
Dundee 0–0 Handon United

Champions Port Sebastian got us off and running in the lunchtime kick off, taking on last season's strugglers Athletic. There were no surprises in store at the Dryerton Stadium, as Porty ran out deserved winners. Giancoma de Jerusalem opened the scoring on her debut, as the Quebecois striker was quick of the mark to rattle home a Jack Baxter pass. Kirisakian Chiyoko Sakuraka added a second shortly after, and second half goals from Joey Bia, and Demba Traore (2), meant the reigning champs ran out deserved winners. Although Athletic scored twice, courtesy of Dahrla Bhosz, and Willie Erskin, they were never really in the game. We were definitely thrown a few curve balls in the opening round of fixtures, none more so than Handon United's 0-0 draw at newly promoted Dundee. The Panners actually looked very good in this match, and there were points where you would have struggled to tell which side were the title favourites. Young Liam Goncalves picked up where he left of with Port Christopher; and Gustav Fandrich, who joined Dundee on a free from South Rathia, looked as if he could prove to be a shrewd signing for Jock Sonny. In a similar match, Cornellians never really got going against La Gorlions, as the 2019 champions became the latest side to slip up in the North Island mountains. Cosumarite teenager Kathryn Kvanderwyk opened the scoring for The Eagles after only 20 mins, latching onto a Eula Richard cross, but it wasn't enough. The never say die Lions battled hard and pulled level after the break thanks to a Davy Ellan header. Then five minutes from time, debutant midfielder Jade Irvin played a delightful pass through to winger Billy Small who fired home from the tightest of angles. Elsewhere there was no honeymoon period for Gary Stood, as FC Soessch were left feeling The Hornets' sting; new signing Merry Osbourne was among the goals as Lammerton coasted to a convincing 3-0 win. And a Callum Frir scored twice as D'Itille recorded an excellent 3-1 win over King Park.

Champions Cup -- Prelim Round

(COS) Real Azuris 1 - 0 Port Sebastian

Sean Frazer popped up to sting Port Sebastian once again in the return fixture in Cosumar. The Schottic Champions tried to dig deep, but they were always half a pace behind their opponents.

Globe Cup -- Prelim Round

(ESQ) Everfree Forest HC 1-0 Cornellians
(COS) AC Holmenkollen 4-1 Lammerton

After the excitement of last week there was little to cheer about as the Schottic clubs took to the road. The likes of Funanya Nwapa and Adnan Valerikssen were just too strong for the Lammerton at Cedar Road, and although Robard Hovart scored against his countrymen, the side from Ramusok Fief were simply too much for the Hornets. Elsewhere Cornellians went safely through, despite going down 1-0 in The Equestrian States.

SPL
Kings Park 1–0 Handon United
Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Dundee
New Belfast Blues 2–2 New Belfast Warriors
Cornellians 3–2 Port Patrick United
Port James Athletic 0–2 La Gorlions
Hollin 1–0 Port Sebastian
FC Soessch 0–1 Berwick United
FC Döllar 0–0 Lammerton
Marionville 1–0 Granton Vale
D'Itille 0–0 Lammerton City

Not exactly the start that Handon United were looking for as another goalless performance saw them go down 1-0 at Kings Park. Upcoming UICA commitments perhaps got to United, as despite dominating for 90 minutes, they looked tired and lacked bite. New signing Sendoa and Corvid Alemane looked much more settled in this game, as The Royals proved they could cope well defensively. Francis Keelinan stole the three points, ten minutes from time, with a well taken free-kick to get his account up and running. Despite their frustrations last week, Cornellians moved on with a 3-2 win over the hard to beat Breakers. Tsumugi Narita's cross field pass left Jedorian midfielder Cosumin Dobrescu with the easiest of finishes for his side's first, before goals from Paul Coine and Willy McIntyre gave the visitors a surprise lead. Eloisa Purinton, pulled The Eagles level after 45 mins, and a long range effort from Kathryn Kvanderwyk restored their lead much to the relief of manager Alexander Pearce. Both Dundee and La Gorlions followed up their strong opening week performances with wins over Oak Park and Athletic respectively. Jacques scored his first goal for Dundee just before the break, and Fredrick Houben and Jago Avelione were on the mark for The Lions. Elsewhere there was continued disappointment for FC Soessch, and The Warriors, as both sides seem to be struggling to get their seasons up and running.

Globe Cup -- Play-off Round

Cornellians 0–2 Cednia Beach AFC (TUR)
(STB) Iskara Daii 2–4 Port Sebastian
(PAS) Club Stein-los 0–1 Handon United

The play-off round brought some tough fixtures for the Schottic clubs, and in the case of Cornellians, they were reunited with a familiar foe in the form of Heron Crew. The big Schottic internationalist, earned a move to Cednia Beach in Turori, after an outstanding season with Port Patrick United. In the end The Eagles were second best, going down 1-0 to the visitors. After their Champions' Cup exit, Port Sebastian restored some much needed pride with a 4-2 win away to Starblaydian side Iskara Daii. Demba Traore looked like a different player, as he scored a first half double in a tense opening 45. In the second half, goals from Joey Bia, and Giancoma de Jerusalem gave Porty a resounding victory. In this round Handon United entered the fray, and Schottia's most successful side ever, got their first taste of UICA football. Carl Sorensen's boys and girls put in a good shift against Pasargan side, Club Stein-los, Serge Mavididi sliding in to prod home an Aya Bernman cross ten minutes from time, to give his side a precious away win.

SPL
Lammerton City 0–1 Kings Park
Granton Vale 3–3 D'Itille
Lammerton 3–2 Marionville
Berwick United 0–4 FC Döllar
Port Sebastian 3–2 FC Soessch
La Gorlions 0–1 Hollin
Port Patrick United 2–1 Port James Athletic
New Belfast Warriors 2–3 Cornellians
Dundee 1–0 New Belfast Blues
Handon United 2–1 Oak Park Celtic

All eyes this week were on an enthralling encounter, as The Warriors played host to Cornellians. Despite going two goals up inside twenty minutes, the Eagles were pegged back, as Adrienne O'Callahan and Ivan Archic found the net for Grant Nean's side. Cornellians left it late once again, this time it was Daniel Sturridge who got the all important goal, after Triffid Ramsey's surging run to the by-line stet up the chance with only five minutes left on the clock. Lammerton beat Marionville by a similar score line, an impressive win given the Old Boys' start to the season. Mars Alexandersson was at her very best, scoring one and setting up one as the Hornets staked their claim for a UICA spot for a third year running. John Cooper and Brecianan Merry Osbourne also netted for home side, with their goals enough to overturn an impressive double from Pasagran teenager Vojnomir Nikolic. Handon United finally got off the mark this week too, but they were made to work for it against an Oak Park side who set up for a 0-0 draw from kick-off. This game hung in the balance for much of the ninety minutes, but it was United's superior firepower, which saw them through. Isaac Nketiah netted first with a clever dink-shot from the angel of the box, before Christian Lovenkrands slid the ball through to veteran midfielder Colin Donaldson to round things off. In other news, despite goals from Melanie Ünterhaisen, and Johan Shearer, Soessch continued to struggle, losing 3-2 to champions Port Sebastian. Dundee continued their impressive start as Vera Cummings goal gave them a win over NBB. And Port Patrick recorded a comfortable home win over Athltic, Cerys Kennicot and Jane Swanson getting the goals.

Globe Cup -- Play-off Round

(TUR) Cednia Beach AFC 3-1 Cornellians
Port Sebastian 3-0 Iskara Daii (STB)
Handon United 6-0 Club Stein-los (PAS)

In the return leg in Turori, a lacklustre Cornellians were definitely second best, losing 3-1 to Cednia Beach. Despite a goal from new Nepharim signing Casey Brind, the Eagles never really got going on the night. Port Sebastian closed out an excellent performance against Iskara Daii, defeating the Starblaydian champions 3-0 in Handon. Ko-oren cap, Emiline Millet scored the opener, and their were second half goals form Lara Silverstein and Chiyoko Sakuraka, as they closed out a resounding win. That result could only be eclipsed by Handon United's 6-0 win at home to Club Stein-los. The Pasagran side were sent home with their tails between their legs as Isaac Nketiah (2), Serge Mavididi, Nik Konstidious, Christian Lovenkrands and Alfred Seggerson all scored for United.

SPL
Kings Park 3–1 Oak Park Celtic
New Belfast Blues 0–2 Handon United
Cornellians 5–0 Dundee
Port James Athletic 1–0 New Belfast Warriors
Hollin 1–2 Port Patrick United
FC Soessch 0–0 La Gorlions
FC Döllar 0–2 Port Sebastian
Marionville 5–0 Berwick United
D'Itille 1–1 Lammerton
Lammerton City 0–1 Granton Vale

Considering the start Jock Sonny's Dundee have made to life back in the SPL it should be seen as a real statement of intent that Cornellains hit five for no reply this week. The Eagles, looked deadly in front of goal, with Purinton and Kvanderwyk right in the thick of it. The game would have been a rude awakening for The Panners, as the opposition's central midfield trio of Brind, Richard, and Narita simply passed them off the park. Marionville won by the same margin against newly prompted Berwick United, as the Old Boys continue to make a lot of the early running. Nikolic scored twice for the second week running, as he and fellow midfielders Barry Stewart and Jonny Birch ran the show. Port Sebastian also look like they are starting to throw a few results together, Demba Traore, and Emilne Millet were on target as they brushed past a substandard Döllar side. Their big city rivals United managed likewise, as Serge Mavididi double saw them comfortably past NBB. There was also a comfortable win for Kings Park this week, Corvid Alemane slamming home her first goal of the campaign in a 3-1 win over Oak Park Celtic, who already look like they are sinking fast. Finally, it seems that Soessch can't win for love nor money, as La Gorlions did what they do best frustrating them at every turn the clash between the two big North Island sides.

Globe Cup -- Play-Off Round

(BRE) Rozelle 1–1 Handon United
(SEM) Krsthaven 1–2 Port Sebastian

There were a couple of outstanding results midweek, for Schottic sides in the UICA, which will have no doubt raised a few eyebrows. Handon United got the ball rolling with a fantastic 1-1 draw in Brenecia against Rozelle. It was a very tricky opening period for United with their higher ranked opposition looking solid in the centre of the park, and this superior possession told when Adelaide Swain smacked a long ball into the path of Kurtis Volker. The striker was then able to take his time in sliding the ball past Lucas D'Araby in the United goals. Whatever Handon United lacked in some departments, they made up for with pace in the wide areas, and it would come as no surprise that the equaliser resulted from one such move. Aya Bernman, hitting the Saints on the counter, managed to a low cross for Serge Mavididi to prod the ball home. Champions Port Sebastion faired even better, picking up a 2-1 at Krsthaven, a hard place to go and get points. In what was another hotly contested match, Porty managed to get the upper hand with goals from Kirisakian winger Chiyoko Sakuraka, and Semar Demba Traore, who popped up to sting his countrymen.

SPL
Granton Vale 1–4 Kings Park
Lammerton 1–0 Lammerton City
Berwick United 1–3 D'Itille
Port Sebastian 2–1 Marionville
La Gorlions 1–1 FC Döllar
Port Patrick United 6–3 FC Soessch
New Belfast Warriors 1–1 Hollin
Dundee 0–1 Port James Athletic
Handon United 0–0 Cornellians
Oak Park Celtic 0–2 New Belfast Blues

There was a big question mark over how Port Patrick would perform this season without Heron Crew, after the big striker left for the shores of Turori. They will have gone some way towards answering their critics with this 6-3 win, which heaps even more misery on poor FC Soessch. Die rote Teufel actually took the lead in this game twice in the first half, with goals from Melanie Ünterhausen, and Konstantin Holstad, but The Breakers were simply outstanding in the second half. Cerys Kennicot scored twice, as did Paul Coine in a game they never looked like losing. With this kind of firepower in their ranks, they have every chance of repeating their 6th place finish of last year. Kings Park followed up their strong win last week with a comprehensive 4-1 thrashing of Granton Vale. The young side played some strong attacking football, and took the game to The Beachcombers for long periods, with goals from Sendoa, Estelle Conway (2), and Francis Keelinan. The match this week, which promised so much was the meeting of Handon United and Cornellians, but thanks to some stout-hearted defending the sides played out a 0-0 draw. Elsewhere this week, Port Sebastian had to be at their very best to earn a 2-1 win at home to a very dangerous Marionville, Giancoma de Jerusalem coming to the rescue. And The Warriors were held to another frustrating draw at home to Hollin, Fred Dawson cancelling out Ivan Archic's early strike.

Globe Cup -- Play-Off Round

Handon United 1-0 Rozelle (BRE)
Port Sebastian 1-0 Krsthaven (SEM)

United might have had a good result in Brenecia, but it was by no means a forgone conclusion when they tie resumed in Handon. Carl Sorensen's side got off to a great start, with Christian Lovenkrads firing in a shot from the edge of the box - which judging by his reaction - not even he expected. United then had to endure something of a storm, with Rozelle playing all action A-League football at its best. In the end however, the Schottic side held out, and moved a step closer to the group phase. It was a remarbaly similar tale at the other side of the city, where Port Sebastian got that all important first half goal, leaving their opponents chasing two, to take the game to extra time. Experienced Quebecois striker Giancoma de Jerusalem, it was who got the only goal of the game.

SPL
Kings Park 4–1 New Belfast Blues
Cornellians 3–2 Oak Park Celtic
Port James Athletic 0–1 Handon United
Hollin 3–0 Dundee
FC Soessch 4–3 New Belfast Warriors
FC Döllar 1–3 Port Patrick United
Marionville 2–0 La Gorlions
D'Itille 1–1 Port Sebastian
Lammerton City 0–0 Berwick United
Granton Vale 2–1 Lammerton

On form side Kings Park surged to a second 4-1 victory in as many weeks this weekend, with an away win at NBB. The Royals, who finished second two years ago, look to be possible title contenders, and the addition of Alemane and Sendoa to the midfield seems to have brought about big improvements from last season. Also Kings Park seem to have unearthed a good striker in the form of Estelle Conway, the teenager scoring twice in this match. Handon United kept the momentum going, and continued to keep things tight at the back. The pairing of Nathaniel Bueno-Wells and Tameka Ninetyseventh, already looks like a formidable one, only letting in two goals in six games. United only needed to score once to see off Athletic, Lovenkrands breaking free of Jim Tanner, before squeezing his shot in past the keeper from a tight angle. The battle between Soessch and The Warriors was an interesting one, two sides with new managers, both struggling. It was the reds who triumphed however, leaving Grant Nean's side deep in relegation trouble. The Warriors scored three, and despite a battling performance from Tomás Fierro, and Holly Addison in midfield, they just seem unable to buy a win. At the sharp end FC Soessch were just too, well... sharp, and Bruno Schwartz (2), Melanie Ünterhausen, and Johan Shearer were all on target to edge them to victory. In a top v. bottom battle, Cornellians managed to just squeeze past Oakpark, as they continue to fight right up until the end every week. The Eagles found themselves 2-1 down at half time in this game, before a piece of brilliance from Cassy Brind played through Cosumin Dobrescu for his third of the season. The home side sealed all three points when Eula Richard's long-range drive cannoned off of Han Clancy, to leave Kathryn Kvanderwyk with a tap-in from 30 centimetres out.

Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round

Handon United 0–2 Mliona-Lpaka (TUR)
Port Sebastian 0–2 Corona Christiana (OME)

Handon United became the second Schottic side, this year, to fall foul to a Turori side. Mliona-Lpaka were just too strong for United in Handon, putting two past the boys and girls in maroon, in a result that left us wondering if the UICA adventure had run its course. It was, once again a carbon copy over in the north of the city, as Port Sebastion continue to mirror their city rivals in this competition. Corona Christiana it was, who were the champions' undoing, dishing out another 2-0 defeat.

SPL
Lammerton 2–1 Kings Park
Berwick United 3–1 Granton Vale
Port Sebastian 3–1 Lammerton City
La Gorlions 2–0 D'Itille
Port Patrick United 0–1 Marionville
New Belfast Warriors 0–1 FC Döllar
Dundee 2–2 FC Soessch
Handon United 2–1 Hollin
Oak Park Celtic 0–2 Port James Athletic
New Belfast Blues 0–0 Cornellians

This week The Hornets got back to winning ways, with a very impressive 2-1 win over Kings Park, to prove that there is life after John McCormack. Mars Alexandersson opened the scoring with a stunning strike just after the half our mark - the Northwestern Sunriser curled home her goal-of-the-month contender after she was teed up by youngster Robard Horvat 30-yards-out. King Park pulled level on the stroke of half time as Darren O'Brian played an angled ball into the path of Francis Keelinan. However Merry Osbourne settled things ten minutes from the end after John Cooper flicked Alexandersson's corner in to the Brecianian's path. Port Sebastian are doing their best this season to prove that their championship win was no flash in the pan, and looked solid once again, with a 3-1 win over Lammerton City. Esther Abner slid the ball into the path of Demba Traore to open the scoring after 14 minutes, before Joey Bia doubled the score ten minutes later with a left footed drive from inside the box. City pulled one back on the stroke of half time when new signing Flora Klee showed her persistence, holding off the challenge of Lara Silverstein before hitting her shot past Chris Gonzaö in the Porty goal. In the end Chiyoko Sakuraka rounded things of for the titleholders, the Kirisakian's expert turn left her free of Thomas Carmichael, and she curled her shot in at the far post. After their disappointment of the week before Marionville put in another impressive performance this week, a David Daller header enough to give them over Port Patrick. Over in North Islands, the Pays La Gorla derby ended 2-0 in The Lions favour, as their Danu Parc record helped them overcome D'Itille. It will have been a relief for Pascal Voitle after a few weeks of struggling for results. Jago Avelione was at his very best, powering home the opener after some good footwork form Jade Irwin; and he got his second shortly after, raising to nodding Billy Small's corner past Gary Thornly to give his side a deserved victory.

Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round

(TUR) Mliona-Lpaka 3-1 Handon United
(OME) Corona Christiana 3-1 Port Sebastian

As we suspected, both Schottic sides left in the competition fell at the final hurdle, the two Handon rival losing 3-1 on the road. The result leaves Schottia still waiting for a first glimpse of Globe Cup football, and their is no doubt that this is something the sides will be out to rectify. On the day however, the was very little grumbling left to be done, as United and Porty were both undeniably outplayed over the two legs.

SPL
Kings Park 2–3 Cornellians
Port James Athletic 4–2 New Belfast Blues
Hollin 2–0 Oak Park Celtic
FC Soessch 1–5 Handon United
FC Döllar 1–0 Dundee
Marionville 5–3 New Belfast Warriors
D'Itille 1–1 Port Patrick United
Lammerton City 0–0 La Gorlions
Granton Vale 0–2 Port Sebastian
Lammerton 4–0 Berwick United

Handon United fans were sent travelling home through the Soessch tunnel very happy indeed as their side romped to a 5-1 win over old their old North Island rivals. Isaac Nketiah (2), Aya Bernman, Nik Konstidios, and Devon Carranza-Jones all scored for United, in what was a very polished performance. At points Soessch looked in danger of being completely overrun, as wingers Bernman and Lovenkrands in particular took the game to the home side. On this performance, you would say the two 19-year-olds will both have big futures at the club. Marionville kept up their good start too this week, with a 5-3 win over a sorry Warriors side. Vojnomir Nikolic and Mike Maxwell both scored twice, as the Old Boys continue to look like the kind of side that could really challenge for a UICA place. There were also important away wins for fellow title challengers Port Sebastian and Cornellians this week. Porty did just enough to edge out Granton Vale, with goals from Emiline Millet and Kaija Koppel - while The Eagles recorded the favourite score line, once again, in an impressive 3-2 win at Kings Park. Finally, Lammerton made the most of their second home game on the bounce, with a 4-0 win over a lacklustre Berwick. John Cooper broke the deadlock after he latched on to a pass from Timo Düd, before Merry Osbourne doubled the Hornets' lead. Cooper added his second just after the hour mark, and Mars Alexandersson rounded things off with a great solo effort moments from the end.

SPL
Berwick United 0–1 Kings Park
Port Sebastian 3–0 Lammerton
La Gorlions 1–2 Granton Vale
Port Patrick United 1–0 Lammerton City
New Belfast Warriors 3–2 D'Itille
Dundee 0–0 Marionville
Handon United 1–0 FC Döllar
Oak Park Celtic 0–1 FC Soessch
New Belfast Blues 1–0 Hollin
Cornellians 3–1 Port James Athletic

There would have been some relief for Grant Nean this week as The Warriors recorded only their second win of the season. The timing could not have been better, with a fans protest scheduled for after that game, calling for his sacking. Despite taking all three points, the win did not come easy, and it took a gutsy performance from the home side to shake off D'Itille. Tomás Fierro opened the scoring with a side-footed effort from the edge of the box, before Jenny Lundergrand doubled her side's lead. Callum Frir pulled one back for the Lime Greens, before captain Ivan Archic scored the decisive third goal. Port Sebastian are beginning to look like the kind of team more than capable of winning back to back titles, as their 3-0 win over Lammerton illustrated. The Hornets looked out of sorts, as Demba Traore slammed home two first half goals to put the game well beyond the visitors. Porty finished their rivals off on 60 minutes after a Joey Bia through ball found Giancoma de Jerusalem in space, and the Quebecois striker despatched a low drive beyond Tim Fines in the Lammerton goal. Cornellians put is a sound performance to sweep aside Athletic, as they seem to be finding their swing. Kathryn Kvanderwyk opened the scoring skidding in at full tilt to poke Eloisa Purinton's pass in at the back post, before the young Cosumarite returned the favour, setting up the Gloriaxian skipper for the side's second. Dahrla Bhosz pulled one back for Athletic, but substitute Mabel Finnemark sealed all three points with a strike late in the game.

SPL
Kings Park 4–4 Port James Athletic
Hollin 0–3 Cornellians
FC Soessch 2–3 New Belfast Blues
FC Döllar 0–0 Oak Park Celtic
Marionville 0–0 Handon United
D'Itille 0–1 Dundee
Lammerton City 1–0 New Belfast Warriors
Granton Vale 2–3 Port Patrick United
Lammerton 2–0 La Gorlions
Berwick United 3–5 Port Sebastian

Hollin is never an easy place to go and get a result, but Cornellians made it look easy this week as goals from Cassy Brind, Eloisa Purinton, and Tsumugi Narita gave them a resounding away win. It was goals galore as Port Sebastian took on Berwick in a 5-3 victory on the New Island. Emline Millet was at her best getting on the score sheet twice in the victory, which cemented her side's place at the top of the table. Port Patrick also kept up their strong start to the season, showing us just why they are now a force to be reckoned with, in a 3-2 win over North Handon rivals Granton Vale. On loan from North Hall, the quality of Tanya Yeats was underlined, as the midfielder scored The Breakers second. Elsewhere, Kings Park and Port James Athletic played out an exciting 4-4 draw, Handon United and Marionvill played out a less exciting 0-0 draw, and Dundee got a valuable 1-0 win away to D'Itille. Finally, a 1-0 defeat at Lammerton City was enough for New Belfast Warriors board, who decided to part company with Grant Nean after only ten games in charge, the result leaving them deep in the relegation zone.

SPL
Port Sebastian 2–2 Kings Park
La Gorlions 2–1 Berwick United
Port Patrick United 2–4 Lammerton
New Belfast Warriors 3–0 Granton Vale
Dundee 5–1 Lammerton City
Handon United 2–0 D'Itille
Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Marionville
New Belfast Blues 1–0 FC Döllar
Cornellians 2–3 FC Soessch
Port James Athletic 1–0 Hollin

Wednesday saw the appointment of Graeme Collins as Warriors manager. The 39-year-old moving over from Regional Division D side New Island, seemed to make an instant impact, recording the side's third win of the season. Whatever the new manager did, it seemed to work, as Adrienne O'Callahan, Craig O'Maramy, and Jenny Lundergrand, all found the net against the normally decent Granton Vale. Dundee notched up a 5-1 win over Lammerton City this week, as Jock Sonny continues to find his feet since taking over. Dundee are looking like a much improved side this season, as goals from Jacques (2), Davy Galmore, Liam Goncalves, and Gustav Fandrich showed us. Soessch, and their manager Gary Stoot were perhaps a side under even more pressure than Grant Nean had been, so their 3-2 win at Cornellians will have been very welcome. Konstantin Holstad was on top form for Soessch, scoring twice in that game. The chasing pack were given some hope this week as Kings Park managed to hold Port Sebastian to a 2-2 draw. Up until this point the reigning champs had looked pretty invincible, but a strong performance from 22-year-old Erin Braden, helped The Royals to a share of the points at Dryerton. Braden's pinpoint pass, late on, cut the defence open, allowing Corvid Alemane to slot home her third of the season. Porty took the lead twice in this game, and will be disappointed that they had to settle for a draw. The result will be a welcome relief to Handon United who managed 2-0 win at home to D'Itille, thanks to goals from Serge Mavididi and Alfred Seggerson.

SPL
Kings Park 1–1 Hollin
FC Soessch 1–0 Port James Athletic
FC Döllar 1–1 Cornellians
Marionville 1–0 New Belfast Blues
D'Itille 2–0 Oak Park Celtic
Lammerton City 2–2 Handon United
Granton Vale 1–0 Dundee
Lammerton 2–2 New Belfast Warriors
Berwick United 0–1 Port Patrick United
Port Sebastian 3–1 La Gorlions

As the SPL reached matchday twelve, Port Sebastian kept themselves on top with an impressive 3-1 win over La Gorlions. The Lions threw everything they had at them, but the combination of Bia and Traore either side of de Jerusalem in attack, has been proving too much for so many sides. Semar, Traore, scored a first half double as he kept his impressive tally going. Despite Houben pulling one back for the visitors, substitute Kaija Koppel rounded things off with a stoppage time header to make the score line look a little one-sided. That result will look all the better given that both Handon United and Cornellians could only manage draws against some of the league's weaker opposition. Port Patrick and Marionville both took full advantage of the situation to put themselves right in the mix. Larry Goodman's 50 minute goal against NBB helped The Old Boys to a very respectable second in the league. And for Port Patrick, the on form Tanya Yates tapped home from close range to give The Breakers a win over Berwick, after Cerys Kennicot's shot rebounded off the post. Elsewhere Graeme Collins' revival of New Belfast Warriors continued, as they managed a 2-2 draw away to Lammerton. Arron Marcie and John Cooper scored for The Hornets, but goals from Ivan Archic and Craig O'Maramy were good enough for a share of the points.

Monthly Awards:

Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Port Sebastian         12    9   2   1    31   14  +17    29
 2 Marionville            12    8   2   2    20    8  +12    26
 3 Handon United          12    7   4   1    17    6  +11    25
 4 Port Patrick United    12    8   1   3    25   17   +8    25
 5 Cornellians            12    7   3   2    27   15  +12    24
 6 Lammerton              12    7   3   2    23   13  +10    24
 7 Kings Park             12    6   3   3    25   18   +7    21
 8 Port James Athletic    12    5   1   6    17   20   −3    16
 9 Granton Vale           12    5   1   6    14   21   −7    16
10 La Gorlions            12    4   3   5    11   13   −2    15
11 Dundee                 12    4   3   5    10   14   −4    15
12 D'Itille               12    3   5   4    16   16    0    14
13 Hollin                 12    4   2   6    13   14   −1    14
14 New Belfast Blues      12    4   2   6    12   18   −6    14
15 FC Soessch             12    4   2   6    19   28   −9    14
16 FC Döllar              12    3   4   5     9   10   −1    13
17 New Belfast Warriors   12    3   3   6    20   22   −2    12
18 Berwick United         12    3   1   8    12   28  −16    10
19 Lammerton City         12    1   4   7     5   15  −10     7
20 Oak Park Celtic        12    0   1  11     4   20  −16     1

Schottic Cup -- Round of Thirty-two

Handon North 1–0 Snubbeak Rock
Kings Park 3–0 New Island
Marionville Thistle 0–1 Marionville
Port Sebastian 3–0 Granton Vale
New Belfast Blues 0–2 Hollin
La Gorlions 3–0 D'Itille
Kirk Preston 1–0 Cornellians
Allous VB 1–2 Port James Athletic
Berwick United 1–0 Döllar
Dundee 5–2 Hillstreet
Port Patrick 0–0 Soessch 1990 (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Oak Park Celtic 1–3 New Belfast Warriors
Lammerton City 0–0 Lammerton (0–2 AET)
Regional Development Side C 0–3 Mucusia
Handon United 2–0 Regional Development Side A
Lammerton Wonderers 0–3 FC Soessch

Schottic Cup -- Round of Sixteen

Handon United 0–0 Berwick United (0–0 AET) (6–7 pen.)
Port James Athletic 3–1 Mucusia
Handon North 4-1 Kirk Preston
Soessch 1990 0–1 La Gorlions
Kings Park 0–1 FC Soessch
Marionville 0–1 Lammerton
Dundee 3–2 Port Sebastian
New Belfast Warriors 3–0 Hollin

by **Schottia** » Fri Mar 18, 2016 9:11 am

Matchday thirteen - twenty-five

SPL
La Gorlions 0–2 Kings Park
Port Patrick United 0–0 Port Sebastian
New Belfast Warriors 1–0 Berwick United
Dundee 3–4 Lammerton
Handon United 3–3 Granton Vale
Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Lammerton City
New Belfast Blues 2–2 D'Itille
Cornellians 3–2 Marionville
Port James Athletic 0–1 FC Döllar
Hollin 1–3 FC Soessch

Graeme Collins' unbeaten start at New Belfast Warriors continued with a 1-0 win over Berwick United. Upper Sunriser Jenny Lundergrand was on hand to finish, after Adrienne O'Callahan's tantalising cross found the striker unmarked at the back post. The win ensures that the side continue to move in the right direction, lifting them out of the relegation zone. Cornellians will be delighted to have come away with all three points, as they welcomed the on form Marionville to Lochend Park. Eloisa Purinton was at her brilliant best, scoring twice in the match, with Eula Richard grabbing the side's third with a long range drive. In a dogged performance, Jonny Birch scored his first goal for Marionville, as the battling midfielder continues to grow with each game. It wasn't enough to rescue a share of the points, however, as the match ended 3-2. The battle of the Handon Ports ended goalless which will have given some of the other sides a glimmer of home. Kings Park were first to take full advantage; Estelle Conway was on target with a great volley, as they brushed past La Gorlions. And Lammerton did their hopes of Globe Cup football no harm with a 4-3 win at a feisty Dundee. Merry Osbourne and John Cooper seem to be forging a great partnership for The Hornets, and both strikers were on target as they edged out the Division two champions.

SPL
Kings Park 2–1 FC Soessch
FC Döllar 2–2 Hollin
Marionville 1–0 Port James Athletic
D'Itille 3–0 Cornellians
Lammerton City 0–1 New Belfast Blues
Granton Vale 1–0 Oak Park Celtic
Lammerton 0–2 Handon United
Berwick United 0–1 Dundee
Port Sebastian 2–2 New Belfast Warriors
La Gorlions 3–1 Port Patrick United

Handon United, who have been a little down on their luck so far, had arguably their best game of the season, as they defeated Lammeron 2-0 away from home. Despite the Hornets probably feeling it was a game they could win, United were in charge from start to finish, with goals from Serge Mavididi, and Quinn McEnithly easing them to victory. Another side near the top, who looked to capitalise, were Kings Park, who faced a resurgent Soessch at home. The Royals weathered an early scare - going down 1-0 in the opening five minute - and came back to win the match 2-1 thanks to goals from Francis Keelinan and Darren O'Brian. D'Itille had in incredible win at home to Cornellians, with Callum Frir, Lucas Yashvil, and John Scooner all on target. Similarly, La Gorlions had a smashing win against Port Patrick, as The Breakers continue to stutter and splutter. Jade Irwin, Jago Avelione, and Billy Small were all on target. Finally Port Sebastian were held to 2-2 draw at home, by a Warriors side who keep looking better and better. Kaija Koppel gave Porty the lead, only for veteran striker Ivan Archic to pull the visitors level. The champs went ahead again, this time it was Quebecois striker Giancoma de Jerusalem, who pounced to stab home a Chiyoko Sakuraka cross. In the end, it finished all square as rising Cenian star Tomás Fierro blew the roof off every bar in New Belfast with a thunderous drive, from all of 20 meters out.

SPL
Port Patrick United 3–1 Kings Park
New Belfast Warriors 4–1 La Gorlions
Dundee 2–3 Port Sebastian
Handon United 1–0 Berwick United
Oak Park Celtic 0–0 Lammerton
New Belfast Blues 3–0 Granton Vale
Cornellians 1–0 Lammerton City
Port James Athletic 1–0 D'Itille
Hollin 0–1 Marionville
FC Soessch 2–0 FC Döllar

Port Patrick are a very different side these days, so it wouldn't have been much of a surprise that they picked up three points at home to Kings Park, the only thing that would have surprised us was the ease of their 3-1 win. Paul Coine opened the scoring for The Breakers, with Jane Swanson doubling their lead before the break. Tanya Yeats added a third in the second half, courtesy of a Markus Bren cross, before Estelle Conway scored a consolation goal late on. While many of the big sides seem to be struggling to grind out consistent results, The Warriors are now flying all of a sudden, as they actually look like they could claw back the massive gap. The Lundergrand, Archic combo up front was on song once again as they defeated La Gorlions 4-1 at Ashley Road. Port Sebastian struggled against Dundee, but the champions managed to scrape a victory in the end, with Emiline Millet's late strike. Vera Cummings and Jacques had put The Panners in front at one stage, but the Ko-oren midfielder's goal meant Porty stay top of the league. Cornellians and Handon United had similar difficulties, picking up 1-0 wins at Lammerton City and Berwick United respectively. Kathryn Kvanderwyk was on target for The Eagles, with Christian Lovenkrands grabbing the winner for United.

SPL
Kings Park 2–0 FC Döllar
Marionville 2–1 FC Soessch
D'Itille 1–1 Hollin
Lammerton City 1–0 Port James Athletic
Granton Vale 2–4 Cornellians
Lammerton 3–1 New Belfast Blues
Berwick United 0–1 Oak Park Celtic
Port Sebastian 3–0 Handon United
La Gorlions 1–0 Dundee
Port Patrick United 0–1 New Belfast Warriors

As a Port Sebastian fan, there is nothing better than giving Handon United a good kicking. Years of watching United win title after title was a bitter one for their city rivals; so the 3-0 win at home will have been extra sweet. The match wasn't actually as one sided as the score line suggests, and the visitors had a lot of the early play. The deadlock was broken after 32 mins, when Joey Bia fired in at the near post to beat Lucas D'Araby. Despite some good chances, United couldn't pull level, and second half goals from de Jerusalem and Traore sealed the win for the champions. Cornellians made easier work of Granton Vale this week, as they continue to push up the table. Scott Cooper and Jack Hobbs both scored for The Beachcombers, but goals from Eloisa Purinton (2), Cosmin Dobrescu, and Casey Brind meant The Eagles cruised to victory. There was also a welcome home victory for Lammerton, who have been stuttering a little en route to the league's half way point. Arron Marcie scored twice, and Merry Osbourne grabbed the other as they won 3-0 against NBB.

SPL
New Belfast Warriors 4–2 Kings Park
Dundee 0–2 Port Patrick United
Handon United 4–1 La Gorlions
Oak Park Celtic 1–1 Port Sebastian
New Belfast Blues 3–2 Berwick United
Cornellians 3–1 Lammerton
Port James Athletic 3–2 Granton Vale
Hollin 0–0 Lammerton City
FC Soessch 4–2 D'Itille
FC Döllar 0–0 Marionville

New Belfast Warriors continued on their winning streak with a 4-2 victory at home to Kings Park. Ivan Archic was predictably on target for The Whalers, as were Adrienne O'Callahan and Craig O'Maramy, as they put in anther great performance. Despite goals from Francis Keelinan and Sendoa, The Royals really struggled to make any impact on the match. Handon United were in desperate need of a solid win, to settle some of their supporters' nerves, and they got it. The 4-1 win against La Gorlions saw Carl Sorensen's side at their best, the pick of the goals - a powerful Isaac Nketiah header - gave the title challengers an unassailable lead in the closing stages, following a great cross from Aya Bernman. Result of the weekend however, was probably Cornellians' 3-1 win over Lammerton. Cosmin Dobrescu's clever pass cut open the Hornets' defence of 18 minutes for the opener, Kathryn Kvanderwyk tucking the ball away. And the young Cosumarite turned provider 20 minutes later, with a neat cut-back for Fleftic midfielder Mabel Finnemark to double their lead. Lammerton pulled one back with a close range effort from John Cooper, but The Eagles rounded things off with a Daniel Sturridge goal four minutes from the end.

SPL
Kings Park 2–1 Marionville
D'Itille 2–0 FC Döllar
Lammerton City 0–0 FC Soessch
Granton Vale 0–0 Hollin
Lammerton 0–1 Port James Athletic
Berwick United 2–4 Cornellians
Port Sebastian 2–1 New Belfast Blues
La Gorlions 2–0 Oak Park Celtic
Port Patrick United 1–0 Handon United
New Belfast Warriors 3–1 Dundee

Port Patrick recorded a fantastic home win this weekend against Handon United, who continue to blow hot and cold. Former Port Sebastian striker Paul Coine scored the only goal of the game, as The Breakers kept themselves in the hunt for a UICA place. There was also another strong win for Kings Park, who are looking like an improved side this season. Francis Keelinan, and Corvid Alemane were on target as they ground out a 2-1 win over Marionville at home. Cornellians seem to be stringing together some much more consistent results too at the moment, and they were un-phased by the trip to The New Island, scoring four against Berwick United. Team captain Eloisa Purinton put in a commanding performance up front, but there was also a rare goal from wing-back Triffid Ramsey who scored her second of the season with an excellent drive from the edge of the area. Port Sebastian are still hanging in there, and look very good at he moment to make it two championships on the bounce. Esther Abner's cross picked out Debma Traore to give his side the lead against NBB, and they sealed all three points late on with Kaija Koppel's fifth of the season, as the Vormsian continues to establish herself.

SPL
Dundee 3–3 Kings Park
Handon United 0–1 New Belfast Warriors
Oak Park Celtic 1–1 Port Patrick United
New Belfast Blues 1–0 La Gorlions
Cornellians 3–1 Port Sebastian
Port James Athletic 1–0 Berwick United
Hollin 0–0 Lammerton
FC Soessch 2–0 Granton Vale
FC Döllar 0–0 Lammerton City
Marionville 3–2 D'Itille

Dundee held Kings Park in a thrilling three-all draw at Granier Road this week, coming from behind three times to take a share of the points against the top-four challengers. Christopheran striker Jacques scored on 14 minutes to cancel out Estelle Conway's opener for The Royals, only to see his side go behind again to a Darren O'Brian strike. The Panners stuck to their task, and pulled level once again, this time thanks to the efforts of Nepharim midfielder Gustav Fandrich, who struck with a well timed half-volley. Kings Park went ahead once more, through Fandrich's countrywoman Corvid Alemane, who rattled in a low, angled shot, before young Vera Cummings squared things again with her third goal of the season. New Belfast Warriors have been simply unbeatable, and their fans must be thanking their lucky stars that they changed manager. This time a second half goal from Upper Sunriser Jenny Lundergrand was enough to earn them a win against Handon United at Harbour Hill, in a result which sees them climb further up the table. Finally Cornellians dealt what could be a pivotal blow in the race for the title as they defeated Port Sebastian 3-1 at home. The Eagles were by far the brighter of the two sides, and really took the game to Porty. They had the golden girls up front to thank for the victory once again, with Purinton and Kvanderwyk both getting on the score sheet.

SPL
Kings Park 3–2 D'Itille
Marionville 0–0 Lammerton City
FC Döllar 3–2 Granton Vale
FC Soessch 1–2 Lammerton
Hollin 3–1 Berwick United
Port James Athletic 1–1 Port Sebastian
Cornellians 1–2 La Gorlions
New Belfast Blues 3–2 Port Patrick United
Oak Park Celtic 0–1 New Belfast Warriors
Handon United 3–2 Dundee

This week there were much needed wins for both Handon United and Lammerton as both sides look to chase down the league leaders. United had to really slog it out against a Dundee side, which is looking better and better as the season goes on. In the end it took a piece of brilliance from Alf Seggerson, who placed his pinpoint freekick right on the head of Isaac Nketiah for the Semar to nod home in stoppage time. United handed a debut to Cenian internationalist Jacrian Ryaden 27, who had been out of work since leaving Patistan. The World Cup star will be hoping to establish himself in place of club captain Lucas D’Araby, who is expected to retire at the end of the season. Lammerton also got back to wining ways with a battling 2-1 win at FC Soessch. Merry Osbourne scored twice, as The Hornets proved to be ruthless in front of goal, taking their chances in a match where they were second best for long periods. Finally The old Warriors seem to be well and truly back with us, as on current form they are reminiscent of the team that lifted the title three seasons ago. This week they didn’t have it all their own way, as Oakpark dug deep to frustrate them. In what has thus far been a good week for Cenians in the SPL, it was Tomás Fierro who grabbed the winning goal on 65 minutes, after an Ivan Archic flick on in the 18-yard-box

SPL
Handon United 2–1 Kings Park
Dundee 2–0 Oak Park Celtic
New Belfast Warriors 3–2 New Belfast Blues
Port Patrick United 2–3 Cornellians
La Gorlions 1–0 Port James Athletic
Port Sebastian 4–4 Hollin
Berwick United 0–0 FC Soessch
Lammerton 1–0 FC Döllar
Granton Vale 2–4 Marionville
Lammerton City 0–0 D'Itille

Jacrian Ryaden keeping the number one jersey for Handon United might mean that we have now seen the last of Lucas D’Araby, with the player bringing down the curtain on 16 years with the club. The Cenian had to be on his toes to deny countryman Sendoa late on, and ensure that his side were able to get the better on Kings Park, en route to successive victories. With Port Sebastian drawing 4-4 with Holin, it was a great chance for the chasing pack to make up some ground, and it wasn’t an opportunity any of them passed up. Cornellains had Cosmin Dobrescu to thank for a 3-2 win over Port Patrick – the Jedorian once again at his best. Marionville were too strong for Granton Vale, with Vojnomir Nikolic and Michael Maxwell both on target in a 4-2 victory away from home. For Lammerton it was Mars Alexandersson they had to look to with her 57 minute goal at home to Döller, earning her side a hard fought victory. And finally, we are left wondering if Graeme Collins can do anything more in the Warriors fans’ eyes, as he led the team to a 3-2 derby win over the Blues.

SPL
Kings Park 2–2 Lammerton City
D'Itille 2–3 Granton Vale
Marionville 3–3 Lammerton
FC Döllar 0–1 Berwick United
FC Soessch 2–3 Port Sebastian
Hollin 0–0 La Gorlions
Port James Athletic 3–2 Port Patrick United
Cornellians 0–2 New Belfast Warriors
New Belfast Blues 3–1 Dundee
Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Handon United

Another win, another shut out, helped United up to second in the table. Aya Bernman got across quickly to power home a low Christian Lovenkrads cross, as her side narrowly beat Oakpark. Port Sebastian stay top of the table after a difficult match against FC Soessch. Demba Traore, Emiline Millet, Lara Silverstein were all on target for the champions, who will be relieved to have left the North Island with all three points. If New Belfast Warriors had started the season like this, it would have been all over by now, as they exceeded expectations once again, Jenny Lundergrand and Holly Addison helping them to a win over Cornellians. And finally Lammerton got a very important three points away to Marionville, in the battle for the UICA spots. Merry Osbourne, John Cooper, and Timo Düd were all on target for the Hornets.

SPL
Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Kings Park
Handon United 2–2 New Belfast Blues
Dundee 1–0 Cornellians
New Belfast Warriors 3–3 Port James Athletic
Port Patrick United 0–0 Hollin
La Gorlions 4–2 FC Soessch
Port Sebastian 0–0 FC Döllar
Berwick United 3–3 Marionville
Lammerton 4–2 D'Itille
Granton Vale 3–0 Lammerton City

Week 23 and Soessch seem to be in all sorts of problems now, losing 4-2 to North Island rivals La Gorlions. Danu Parc once again proved to be a graveyard for the big teams, as a spirited performance from young Jade Irwin will have given The Lions something to celebrate. A club not normally renowned for its eye-catching football, the home side actually had one of their best games of the season. Away from the pressures of The Nepharim league the former Crisisbless United play-maker seems to be playing without fear, and she had a hand in two of the sides goals. The incredible run had to come to an end at some point for New Belfast Warriors, and in the end it was Athletic who held the Whalers to a 3-3 draw at Ashley Road. Graeme Collins’ side have been unstoppable since he took over, but this week a late Joseph Preca goal was his side’s undoing. In another strange week for score lines; Cornellians went down 1-0 to Dundee thanks to a Barry Drite goal, Port Sebastian were held 0-0 at home by FC Döllar, and despite a Serge Mavididi double, Handon United could only manage a 2-2 draw with NBB. The only side to really capitalise were Lammerton, who defeated D’Itille 4-2, thanks to a John Cooper hattrick, and a late Mars Alexandersson freekick.

SPL
Kings Park 2–3 Granton Vale
Lammerton City 0–1 Lammerton
D'Itille 1–1 Berwick United
Marionville 1–2 Port Sebastian
FC Döllar 2–0 La Gorlions
FC Soessch 1–3 Port Patrick United
Hollin 2–1 New Belfast Warriors
Port James Athletic 0–0 Dundee
Cornellians 2–0 Handon United
New Belfast Blues 1–0 Oak Park Celtic

Cornellians leapfrogged Handon United this week with a 2-0 win at home. Kathryn Kvanderwyk rose highest to head home a Eula Richard freekick on the hour mark, before a scramble at a Casey Brind corner saw the ball fall kindly for Tsumugi Narita to blast home from close range. As we approach the final third of the season the result will come as a very bitter blow for United, who had fought hard to get themselves back in contention. The other Handon sides had less trouble this week: Port Sebastian extended their lead at the top of the table with a 2-1 win away to Marionville, thanks to goals from Giancoma de Jerusalem and Chiyoko Sakuraka. Whereas Port Patrick United heaped more misery on FC Soessch with a 3-1 win; Paul Coine (2), and Tanya Yates were both on target for The Breakers

SPL
New Belfast Blues 1–2 Kings Park
Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Cornellians
Handon United 1–2 Port James Athletic
Dundee 2–2 Hollin
New Belfast Warriors 0–0 FC Soessch
Port Patrick United 2–1 FC Döllar
La Gorlions 4–3 Marionville
Port Sebastian 1–0 D'Itille
Berwick United 0–3 Lammerton City
Lammerton 1–0 Granton Vale

Twenty five matches in, and there is still so much to play for, with the top seven all within ten points of eachother. Port Sebastian consolidated their position at the top thanks to a Demba Traore goal, which was all it took to see of D’Itille. It was a similar story for second place Cornallians who won 1-0 at OakPark, Cosmin Dobrescu curling in 18 metre effort. Handon United also slumped down to fifth as Lammerton jumped two places to third following a 1-0 win over Granton Vale. The Hornets had Merry Osbourne to thank on this occasion, the striker doing well to get on the end of an Arron Marcie through ball. At the other end it looks like Lammerton City have been sucked into a relegation battle as they may have finally used up their nine lives.

Monthly Awards:

.                         Pld   W   D   L    GF   GA   GD    Pts 
 1 Port Sebastian         25   15   8   2    54   31  +23    53
 2 Cornellians            25   16   3   6    52   33  +19    51
 3 Lammerton              25   14   6   5    43   29  +14    48
 4 Marionville            25   13   6   6    44   30  +14    45
 5 Handon United          25   13   6   6    36   24  +12    45
 6 Kings Park             25   13   5   7    50   40  +10    44
 7 Port Patrick United    25   13   4   8    44   34  +10    43
 8 New Belfast Warriors   25   12   6   7    46   35  +11    42
 9 New Belfast Blues      25   11   4  10    36   37   −1    37
10 Port James Athletic    25   11   4  10    32   33   −1    37
11 La Gorlions            25   11   4  10    30   33   −3    37
12 Granton Vale           25    9   3  13    35   48  −13    30
13 Hollin                 25    6  11   8    28   29   −1    29
14 FC Soessch             25    8   5  12    38   47   −9    29
15 Dundee                 25    7   6  12    28   38  −10    27
16 FC Döllar              25    6   8  11    18   24   −6    26
17 D'Itille               25    5   9  11    35   39   −4    24
18 Lammerton City         25    4  10  11    12   23  −11    22
19 Berwick United         25    4   4  17    22   50  −28    16
20 Oak Park Celtic        25    1   4  20     7   33  −26     7

Schottic Cup -- Quarterfinal
Lammerton 4–1 Dundee
New Belfast Warriors 3–1 Port James Athletic
FC Soessch 3–1 La Gorlions
Handon North 1–0 Berwick United

Schottic Cup -- Semi-final
Lammerton 0–2 New Belfast Warriors
FC Soessch 2–1 Handon North

by **Schottia** » Wed Mar 30, 2016 2:22 am

Matchday twenty-six - thirty-eight

SPL
Kings Park 1–2 Lammerton
Granton Vale 2–0 Berwick United
Lammerton City 0–1 Port Sebastian
D'Itille 1–1 La Gorlions
Marionville 2–1 Port Patrick United
FC Döllar 0–1 New Belfast Warriors
FC Soessch 1–1 Dundee
Hollin 0–2 Handon United
Port James Athletic 1–0 Oak Park Celtic
Cornellians 4–0 New Belfast Blues

This was a weekend where the teams at the top of the table all consolidated their positions. Cornellins had a fantastic 4-0 win over NBB as they try to home in on a second SPL title. Casey Brind opened the scoring after only 8 minutes, with a looping shot, which beat Jim Black at his far post. Eloisa Purinton added a second on the stroke of half time, tucking away a defence-splitting Narita pass. The Eagles pressed home their advantage in the second half, with Purinton adding her second and the team's fourth, before Kathryn Kvanderwyk rounded things off with a strike form the edge of the penalty area. Lammerton will have been immensely pleased to have taken all three points from their visit to Kings Park. Arron Marcie made it 1-0 for The Hornets with a long range strike on the stroke of half time, only for Francis Keelinan to pull level with a freekick just after the restart. Lammerton always looked like they had another goal left in them however, and Merry Osbourne pounced after a defencive mix-up to give her side an important win on the road. There was no such drama for Handon United, who played out a 2-0 win at Hollin, with a textbook performance. Young defender Nathaniel Bueno-Wells opened the scoring with a scorching header from a Seggerson corner, before 16-year-old substitute Mirka Shitakuari doubled the lead late on with her first goal for the club. Elsewhere, a Joey Bia goal was all it took to separate Port Sebastian and Lammerton City, keeping the reigning champs top of the table.

SPL
Cornellians 1–3 Kings Park
New Belfast Blues 1–1 Port James Athletic
Oak Park Celtic 0–1 Hollin
Handon United 0–0 FC Soessch
Dundee 1–0 FC Döllar
New Belfast Warriors 1–3 Marionville
Port Patrick United 4–4 D'Itille
La Gorlions 0–0 Lammerton City
Port Sebastian 3–1 Granton Vale
Berwick United 0–2 Lammerton

The big surprise this week was Cornellians' 3-1 defeat at home to Kings Park, as the young Royals side seem capable of pulling off some big shocks. Creed United Loanee Corvid Alemane looked a whole different class as she went toe to toe with countrywoman Triffid Ramsey down the right flank. The two players had a great battle, but on the base of the scoreline you would say Alemane got the better of her more experienced opponent. Port Sebastian took full advantage of the slip up to put some clear water between themselves and Cornellians. Giancoma de Jerusalem (2), and Demba Traore were both on target for the Steel men in a 3-1 win over Granton Vale. Marionville underlined their top-four credentials, with a 3-1 win away to a resurgent Warriors side. Despite Ivan Archic taking the lead in this match, The Old Boys put in a standout performance with goals from Vojnomir Nikolic, Michael Maxwell, and Jonny Birch.

SPL
Kings Park 3–1 Berwick United
Lammerton 3–3 Port Sebastian
Granton Vale 1–1 La Gorlions
Lammerton City 0–2 Port Patrick United
D'Itille 0–2 New Belfast Warriors
Marionville 1–0 Dundee
FC Döllar 0–1 Handon United
FC Soessch 4–0 Oak Park Celtic
Hollin 1–0 New Belfast Blues
Port James Athletic 2–4 Cornellians

New Belfast Warriors got over the upset against Marionville as they edged past Lammeton City, with a 3-2 win. The Princes are in deep trouble this season, but the one shining light seems to be young striker Flora Klee, who scored again today. The 19-year-old had already been referred to as the next Lucy Curren, although that is probably mostly down to the Lammerton City connection. Despite Klee's best efforts, she was simply outdone at the other end by Whalers captain Ivan Archic, the Nekulturnyn proving once again why he is the SPL's all-time top scorer. FC Soessch followed up the hard fought 0-0 draw at United with a comfortable 4-0 win over Oakpark Celtic. Konstantin Holstad, Bruno Schwartz, Melanie Ünterhausen, and Johan Shearer all scored in the rout at Gannon Park. Another team needing to move on this weekend were Cornellians, and they did just that with a 4-2 win over Port James Athletic. Athletic have been looking much harder to beat this season, so Eagles manger Alexander Pearce will no doubt be over the moon with the performance, which keeps them in touch at the top of the table. The match between Lammerton and Port Sebastian had intrigue written all over it, and it did not disappoint. Porty took the lead through Demba Traore on 23 minutes, the Semar latching onto an Emiline Millet pass, before John Copper levelled for the Hornets. The visitors took the lead again early in the second half with a goal from Kirisakian midfielder Sakuraki, only for Mars Alexandersson to pull her side level again with a long range effort. The Hornets must have then thought they had won it, when Merry Osbourne scored with a bullet header, however a late goal from Kaija Koppel meant that things finished all square.

SPL
Port James Athletic 3–2 Kings Park
Cornellians 2–0 Hollin
New Belfast Blues 1–3 FC Soessch
Oak Park Celtic 0–0 FC Döllar
Handon United 1–0 Marionville
Dundee 0–0 D'Itille
New Belfast Warriors 3–2 Lammerton City
Port Patrick United 2–2 Granton Vale
La Gorlions 0–1 Lammerton
Port Sebastian 4–2 Berwick United

Soessch's mini bounce continued this week, as they finally started to look a little more like the side which finished third two seasons ago. Young Melanie ünterhausen, perhaps spurred on by the fact that her twin is making all the headlines in the national team, was on target once again, scoring the side's all important second en route to a 3-1 win over NBB. Cornellians kept up the pace, with a 2-0 win over Hollin, as Eula Richard and Mabel Finnemark both found the back of the net. Lammerton snuck a 1-0 win at La Gorlions to keep them in the chase, Robard Horvat was in the right place at the right time to tap home Mars Alexandersson's pass. And finally, Handon United scrapped to a similar winning margin, against a Marionville side who pressed them from start to finish, Serge Mavididi it was, who grabbed the all important goal.

SPL
Kings Park 4–4 Port Sebastian
Berwick United 0–3 La Gorlions
Lammerton 1–2 Port Patrick United
Granton Vale 1–2 New Belfast Warriors
Lammerton City 0–1 Dundee
D'Itille 0–0 Handon United
Marionville 2–1 Oak Park Celtic
FC Döllar 3–2 New Belfast Blues
FC Soessch 2–1 Cornellians
Hollin 2–0 Port James Athletic

An eight-goal thriller left Port Sebastian with a share of the points at Lochely Green Stadium, as they were unable to get the better of a typically gung-ho Kings Park. Despite their usual ruthlessness in front of goal, Porty found their opponents equal to the challenge and a double from Estelle Conway kept a very solid season going for Kings Park. La Gorlions don't pick up many big wins, so when they do, it's probably worth mentioning, even if it is against Berwick United. The Lions have been having an on-off season so far, and the three points on the road will come as a welcome relief. Davy Ellen (2) and Jago Avelione were both on target, as the North Island side cruised to a 3-0 victory. FC Soessch have picked a weird time to start playing football, and they continued to show that the recent resurgence was no flash in the pan, with a 2-1 win over Cornellians. Forgotten man of the Schottic national team, Till Ümann opened the scoring for the side from Bergstadt, before Cosmin Dobrescu pulled the visitors level. It was then left for the league's on form player, Mel Ünterhausen to score the winning goal, which gave her childhood heroes their best win of the season so far.

SPL
Hollin 2–0 Kings Park
Port James Athletic 1–1 FC Soessch
Cornellians 2–0 FC Döllar
New Belfast Blues 3–4 Marionville
Oak Park Celtic 0–2 D'Itille
Handon United 0–1 Lammerton City
Dundee 1–1 Granton Vale
New Belfast Warriors 4–5 Lammerton
Port Patrick United 4–3 Berwick United
La Gorlions 1–0 Port Sebastian

The Lions dealt Port Sebastian a real kicking this week, as Jade Irwin's through ball for Davy Ellen produced the only goal of the game. The result comes just as Porty will have been thinking that a couple more wins would put them well on course towards back-to-back titles for the first time in the clubs history. In another exciting match, Lammerton's visit to New Belfast proved to be a real goal fest, with no fewer than nine goals. On this occasion The Hornets edged it in a match that could have gone either way. The result draws something of a line in the sand, with Lammerton looking like the side now more likely to finish in the UICA places and leaving the Warriors lamenting their start to the season. Lammerton's small team, City, managed to give themselves a slither of hope, with a shock 1-0 win over Handon United, Thomas Carmichael scoring the only goal. And finally, Cornellians kept the pressure on Port Sebastian as an Eloise Purinton penalty helped her side to a 2-0 win over Döllar.

SPL
Kings Park 2–1 La Gorlions
Port Sebastian 2–2 Port Patrick United
Berwick United 3–2 New Belfast Warriors
Lammerton 4–2 Dundee
Granton Vale 1–3 Handon United
Lammerton City 2–1 Oak Park Celtic
D'Itille 3–2 New Belfast Blues
Marionville 0–2 Cornellians
FC Döllar 0–1 Port James Athletic
FC Soessch 3–3 Hollin

There were yet more dropped points this weekend for Port Sebastian, as they were held at home by city rivals Port Patrick. The Breakers, in one of their best games of the season went 2-0 up against Porty in the opening 45 minutes. Cerys Kennicot found Paul Coine unmarked in the box to open the scoring against his old club, and former Hillstreet midfielder Kevin Morton doubled their lead not long after. Port Sebastian pulled level in the second half thanks to goals from Jack Baxter and Paul Doig, but it was too little, too late as the game finished 2-2. Cornellains look set to ensure that the title race goes right down to the wire as Kathryn Kvanderwyk and Mabel Finnemark helped them see off Marionville, who's surprise title challenge seems to be now all but over. That said, it has been a good season for the Old Boys, and one they can build on for next year. Handon United really needed to get themselves back on track, and they managed just that with a 3-1 win over Granton Vale. Jack Hobbs was on the score sheet for the Beachcombers, but goals from Isaac Nketiah, Christian Lovenkrands and Quinn McEnithly gave the 2016 champs comfortable win on the road.

SPL
FC Soessch 3–5 Kings Park
Hollin 1–0 FC Döllar
Port James Athletic 3–1 Marionville
Cornellians 4–3 D'Itille
New Belfast Blues 2–0 Lammerton City
Oak Park Celtic 2–4 Granton Vale
Handon United 1–0 Lammerton
Dundee 1–0 Berwick United
New Belfast Warriors 5–2 Port Sebastian
Port Patrick United 1–1 La Gorlions

Kings Park kept their outside chances of a return to the Globe Cup alive with a great attacking display against FC Soessch. If The Royals could keep things a little tighter at the other end then there is no doubt that the could be challenging at the top of the table, and that will be the challenge for next season. Another challenge will be keeping a hold of Corvid Alemane when her loan deal finishes at the end of the season, and the Nepharim wide-girl had a hand in Sendoa's opener today. Serge Mavididi won't score many more important goals than the one he scored against Lammerton this weekend. The Semarlandic striker's 57 minute header gave Handon United a narrow victory over their rivals, keeping them in with a good shout of a third place finish. And the poor run of Port Sebastian continued this weekend as New Belfast Warriors defeated them 5-2, at Ashley Road, in a result which hardly seemed possible six months ago. Ivan Archic is showing no signs of rust, and put in a five star performance with a double for The Whalers. There were also goals for Jenny Lundergrand, Craig O'Maramy, and Tomás Fierro. With their 4-3 win over D'Itille, Cornellians will now be feeling that their second title is within touching distance, as they have been able to hold firm right up until the end. Tsumugi Narita was the star of the show, playing in a slightly deeper role, the Kirisakian proving as always how important she is to this side.

SPL
Kings Park 3–2 Port Patrick United
La Gorlions 2–2 New Belfast Warriors
Port Sebastian 5–1 Dundee
Berwick United 0–1 Handon United
Lammerton 2–0 Oak Park Celtic
Granton Vale 2–2 New Belfast Blues
Lammerton City 0–1 Cornellians
D'Itille 1–1 Port James Athletic
Marionville 1–0 Hollin
FC Döllar 0–1 FC Soessch

It wasn't convincing by any means, but Stephen Gargo's header against Lammerton City put the title firmly in the side from Lochend's hands. Only now a total collapse would hand the lead back to Port Sebastian, who eased past Dundee 5-1. Despite the crushing victory it now looks likely that the championship trophy will be heading out of Handon and up the road to Lochend. With other results taken into account, Lammerton and Handon United moved a step closer to the other UICA spots. For the second week running United won by a single goal, this time it was Nik Konstidios who helped them past a Berwick side with little left to lose. And Lammerton never really got out of second gear as goals from Merry Osbourne and Timo Düd gave them a 2-0 win over Oakpark Celtic. In other results Bruno Schwartz gave Soessch a 1-0 win over Döllar. New Belfast Warriors and La Gorlions played on a 2-2 draw. And in a hotly contested match, a late Francis Keelinan penalty gave Kings Park a 3-2 win over Port Patrick United.

SPL
FC Döllar 2–0 Kings Park
FC Soessch 2–2 Marionville
Hollin 2–1 D'Itille
Port James Athletic 1–0 Lammerton City
Cornellians 4–2 Granton Vale
New Belfast Blues 3–3 Lammerton
Oak Park Celtic 0–0 Berwick United
Handon United 1–2 Port Sebastian
Dundee 2–1 La Gorlions
New Belfast Warriors 4–2 Port Patrick United

Handon United missed what was their last chance at second spot, going down 2-1 to Port Sebastian at home. Carl Sorensen will be left kicking himself, as his players simply squandered too many chances in a game they otherwise could have won. It was the Semar's fellow countryman Demba Traore who put United to the sword, with a goal on 74 minutes, leaving poor Jacrian Ryaden stranded, as he powered home from close range following a clever Emiline Millet pass. If Porty were hoping their derby win would be accompanied by a Cornellians slip up, then they were to be disappointed, as the Eagles now look like they are in a commanding position in first place. Triffid Ramsey, Damien Sturridge, and Kath Kvanderwyk (2) gave them an easy win over Granton Vale, who never really got going. Lammerton were unable to take advantage of United's defeat either, as they ended up drawing 3-3 with NBB away from home. Goals from David Millar, and Shu (2) meant that The Hornets were left with a nervy last three matches, to see if they could seal an impressive third spot.

SPL
Kings Park 3–4 New Belfast Warriors
Port Patrick United 3–3 Dundee
La Gorlions 1–2 Handon United
Port Sebastian 2–0 Oak Park Celtic
Berwick United 0–3 New Belfast Blues
Lammerton 5–5 Cornellians
Granton Vale 1–0 Port James Athletic
Lammerton City 1–2 Hollin
D'Itille 1–3 FC Soessch
Marionville 2–0 FC Döllar

Handon United closed in on third, and Port Sebastian were left with the faintest glimmer of hope this week, as Cornellians, and Lammerton played out a 5-5 draw. In this epic 10-goal-thriller, the lead changed hands several times producing a result, which in the end didn't really help either team. Port Sebastian move back within two points with a 2-0 win at Oak Park, Giancoma de Jerusalem, and Chiyoko Sakuraka scoring the goals, and Aya Bernman, and Devon Carranza-Jones gave United a 2-1 win at La Gorlions. Marionville made light work of FC Döllar, with goals from Michael Maxwell and Barry Stewart. Soessch had a Konstantin Holstad double to thank for a 3-1 win at D'Itille. And finally, a great performance from Upper Sunriser Jenny Lundergrand helped The Warriors to edge out Kings Park, in what will go down as a good result for Graeme Collins' boys and girls on the road.

SPL
Marionville 1–2 Kings Park
FC Döllar 1–6 D'Itille
FC Soessch 1–0 Lammerton City
Hollin 5–2 Granton Vale
Port James Athletic 2–2 Lammerton
Cornellians 9–1 Berwick United
New Belfast Blues 4–4 Port Sebastian
Oak Park Celtic 0–1 La Gorlions
Handon United 1–0 Port Patrick United
Dundee 0–2 New Belfast Warriors

Port Sebastian will be livid that their shock 4-4 draw with NBB has taken their chance to defend their title, at home, out of their hands. What is even worse, is that the neutrals have been denied one of the most exciting final day fixtures in Schottic football history. The Blues, who are finishing strongly, were actually unlucky not to win the game, as they were by far the better side; whereas Porty will have to go away and ask themselves what went wrong. There was no signs of any battle weariness in this Eagles side as they were crowned champions in style with a 9-1 win over Berwick, who will have been left shell shocked. Purinton scored two and Kvanderwyk scored a hattrick as Cornellians replicated the kind of form, reminiscent of their MPL days. Lammerton's 2-2 draw away to Port James meant that Handon United now have third place firmly in their sights. That said, if anyone had offered the Hornets a third 4th spot in a row at the start of the season they would have taken it. The side have managed to temper the loss of star striker John McCormack with the signing of Merry Osbourne while pocketing a 500k profit - all in all, good season. Handon United haven't scored a lot of goal this season, but by good fortune they haven't conceded many, and this stood them in good stead against Port Patrick. Bueno-Wells, Ninetyseventh and co. all held firm at the back, while an Alf Seggerson freekick was enough to earn the side victory.

SPL
Kings Park 5–3 Dundee
New Belfast Warriors 0–3 Handon United
Port Patrick United 1–0 Oak Park Celtic
La Gorlions 1–1 New Belfast Blues
Port Sebastian 3–3 Cornellians
Berwick United 0–1 Port James Athletic
Lammerton 1–0 Hollin
Granton Vale 2–3 FC Soessch
Lammerton City 1–0 FC Döllar
D'Itille 5–2 Marionville

There were no final match dramas to speak of really, with most of the final positions already decided going into the last round of fixtures. The public were of course denied their grandstand finish, and in the end Cornellians and Port Sebastian played out a 3-3 draw it what was a meaningless fixture. The Eagles actually threw away a 3-1 lead in this match, allowing their rivals to at least end on a high note, Joey Bia rifled in a shot from a tight angle late on, and Kaija Koppel pulled level deep in stoppage time. The result means that Cornellians and their Cosumarite manager Alexander Pearce make it two titles in three year, and their fan base will be hoping that this could be the start of an era of domination for the club. Handon United knew, they needed to win at New Belfast Warriors to seal third spot and they did just that, in one of their best results of the season. Esteke Inanuk opened the scoring with a shot from the edge of the box, before a Mirka Shitakuari pass found Serge Mavididi in space for the sides second. United put the icing on the cake when Christian Lovenkrand's long-range effort rebounded into the path of Mavididi for his second and the side's third. Reflecting on the season, United will know that failerour to take their chances up front, and perhaps an over reliance on Semarlandic duo, Mavididi and Nketiah, to come up with the goals will have cost them dearly in their search for a first title in six years. Lammerton on the other hand will be happy enough with fourth, if not a little disappointed to have let things slip so late on. There is a lot of hope for the Hornets however, and they seem to now have established themselves as one of the leagues top sides.

The best of the rest this season were The New Belfast Warriors, who overcame a monstrous start to the season, piping Marionville to fifth, as the Old Boys dropped away a little. The Warriors have next season to look forward to, and if they can start as strongly as they finished then a top four place is by no means out of their reach. At the bottom of the table, Oakpark Celtic finished where most people predicated they would, rock bottom, with a pathetic haul of nine points. Joining them in the regional leagues are Berwick United, Döllar, and somewhat surprisingly Lammerton City. Despite being a small club, City have been a permanent fixture in the top flight for a generation, and the Lammerton derby will definitely be a loss.

Monthly Awards:

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cornellians            38   25   5   8    94   54  +40    80 Champions' Cup
 2 Port Sebastian         38   21  13   4    89   58  +31    76 Globe Cup
 3 Handon United          38   22   8   8    52   29  +23    74 Globe Cup
 4 Lammerton              38   21  10   7    74   52  +22    73 Globe Cup
 5 New Belfast Warriors   38   20   7  11    78   61  +17    67 Cygnus Cup
 6 Marionville            38   20   7  11    65   51  +14    67
 7 Kings Park             38   20   6  12    83   69  +14    66
 8 Port Patrick United    38   17   9  12    70   60  +10    60
 9 Port James Athletic    38   17   8  13    49   48   +1    59
10 FC Soessch             38   15  10  13    65   64   +1    55
11 Hollin                 38   14  12  12    47   42   +5    54
12 La Gorlions            38   14  10  14    44   46   −2    52
13 New Belfast Blues      38   13   9  16    60   66   −6    48
14 Dundee                 38   11  10  17    44   61  −17    43
15 Granton Vale           38   12   7  19    57   76  −19    43
16 D'Itille               38    9  14  15    62   61   +1    41
17 FC Döllar              38    8   9  21    24   43  −19    33 Relegated
18 Lammerton City         38    7  11  20    19   38  −19    32 Relegated
19 Berwick United         38    5   5  28    32   85  −53    20 Relegated
20 Oak Park Celtic        38    1   6  31    11   55  −44     9 Relegated

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

1st: Alfred Seggerson -- Handon United

Seggerson had one of his best season in maroon and white, even as Handon United stuttered at times. Never shy in the tackle, and a great passer of the ball, Seggerson has now been one of the club's most important players for more than a decade.

2nd: Ivan Archic -- New Belfast Warriors

Even at 33, Archic is still a top striker, and the Nekylturnyn will no doubt go down as one of the best players to ever play grace the pitches of the SPL. He is about so much more than goals, and when his team needed him, he really dug deep this season.

3rd: Eloisa Purinton -- Cornellians

Despite this being the first season that the Gloriaxian didn't finish top scorer in her three season in the SPL, it's hard to judge her too harshly. The absence of her nation from the World Cup cycles is a real shame, so for the time being the Schottic fans will have her goal scoring exploits all to their selves.

4th: Mars Alexandersson -- Lammerton

The 20-year-old grows in stature with every game she plays, the youngest player on this list, and she has all the hallmarks of a future top class attacker. Whether it is linking up the Hornets attack, or going for goal herself, Alexandersson is one of the best in the league.

5th: Demba Traore -- Port Sebastian

Although Traore is perhaps a player of lesser footballing ability, compared to the league's other young Semarlandic strikers, there is no denying his contribution. When it comes down to goal scoring ability, you've got to hand it to this guy, who batters his way through defences up and down the country. Traore's raw pace and power are essential the way Port Sebastian set up, and at the moment, no one really seems to have an answer to it.

Long-list: Konstantin Holstad (FC Soessch), Corvid Alemane (Kings Park), Eula Richard (Cornellians), Cerys Kennicot (Port Patrick), Joey Bia (Port Sebastian) Triffid Ramsey (Cornellians)

Golden Boot (Top Scorer):
1st: 27 Demba Traore -- Port Sebastian

2nd: 24 Eloisa Purinton -- Cornellians

=3rd: 22 Ivan Archic -- Warriors

| Kathryn Kvanderwyk -- Cornellians

=5th: 19 Estelle Conway -- Kings Park

| Merry Osbourne -- Lammerton

| Isaac Nketiah -- Handon United

8th: 16 Vojnomir Nikolic -- Marionville

| 17 Paul Coine -- Port Patrick

| Giancoma de Jerusalem -- Port Sebastian

| John Cooper -- Lammerton

Young Player of The Year:
1st: Mars Alexandersson -- Lammerton

See Player of the year Award.

2nd: Demba Traore -- Port Sebastian

See Player of the year Award.

3rd: Isaac Nketiah -- Handon United

Nketiah was part of Semarland's successful World Cup qualifying campaign, and has already proven himself on the international stage. A great player with the ball at his feet, he contribution cannot be questioned, as his performances this season illustrated. Strike partner Serge Mavididi and he, have recently signed permanent deals with the club, so fans will have much more to look forward to over the next few seasons.

4th: Kathryn Kvanderwyk -- Cornellians

22 goals in her breakthrough season for the 19-year-old, it is easy to see why Cornellians fans are calling Kathryn Kvanderwyk the next Eloisa Purinton. Boundless energy, and an old fashion, unselfish work ethic, the Cosumarite has been one of the league's most consistent performers, and thoroughly deserves her SLP winner's medal.

5th: Corvid Alemane -- Kings Park

It's probably going to be hard for Kings Park to keep a hold of this Nepharim winger when her loan deal expires, but you'd imagine they'll do everything they can. She fits this attack-minded Royals side like a glove, and has been a good source of goals and assists this season - manger Eric Desmond should take a note on this.

Long-list: Serge Mavididi (Handon United), Tomás Fierro (Kings Park), Vojnomir Nikolic (Marionville), Jade Irwin (La Gorlions), Esther Abner (Port Sebastian)

Manger of The Year:
1st: Alexander Pearce -- Cornellians

After their exit from the Globe Cup, and a slow start, their were suspicions that Cornellians were not quite the side we thought they were. We were wrong of course and they put some impressive results together as they marched to their second title in three years.

2nd: John Sedder -- Lammerton

Sedder has turned the Hornets into one of the best sides in the league, who will have now finished fourth in the league three years running. Shrewd signings, and he has the side playing good attacking football.

3rd: Conner Watts -- Port Sebastian

Port Sebastian lost their title, but it was always going to be a tall order for them to keep hold of it. Watts deserves some credit for putting up such a good fight, while improving the side at the same time. A few seasons ago they looked in danger of fading into irrelevance, suffering the same fate as some of the other big clubs, but instead they have made themselves part of a 'big-three' and they will be looking forward to UICA football again next season.

4th: Greame Collins -- New Belfast Warriors

After some very good work with New Island two seasons ago, Collins got the chance he was looking for with a move to big hitters, The Warriors. After a disastrous start to the season, the former Handon United man took the helm and steered them from fourth bottom to very respectable fifth place finish, and a Schottic Cup victory, their best season in four years.

5th: Jock Sonny -- Dundee

Jock Sonny is back, and after a frustrating couple of seasons for the veteran manager, he did what was asked of him and kept Dundee up. He will now be looking ahead to next season, and the oppertunity to slowly build some momentum with the South Schottia side.

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

Jade Irwin -- La Gorlions

Signed from Crisisbless United, free transfer
Plucked from the mass of players who failed to make the cut in the Nepharim league (not that that's an insult), Irwin throve under management of Pascal Voitle, improving as an all round player. Although La Gorlions are not the a side well known for their silky football, the youngster will be a welcome addition as they try to keep pace with the top sides.

Team of The Year:
Differently to the player of the year awards, the official team of the year is voted for by the Schottic public.

GK == Jacrian Ryaden

DF == Esther Abner

- Markus Pfab

- Nathaniel Bueno-Wells

- Triffid Ramsey

MF == Alfred Seggerson

EulaRichard

- Mars Alexandersson

FW == Eloisa Purinton

- Ivan Archic

- Demba Traore

Schottic Cup -- Final

FC Soessch 1-2 New Belfast Warriors
Goals: 46" Shearer; 12" Fierro, 81" Archic

New Belfast Warriors made it two Schottic Cup wins in two years as they edged out FC Soessch at the national stadium. For both sides it has been a long difficult season, and there was no hiding how important this final was to both sides. The Warriors are the team on the ascendency at the moment and that was obvious to see from the way they took the game to Soessch in the early stages. It didn't take long for the Whalers to break the deadlock, when young Cenian international Tomás Fierro was first to pounce on a loose ball, and drilled his eighth goal of the season in at the far corner.

Soessch did respond to this and put the Warriors under considerable pressure as the first half come to a close. Despite this it was the second half when the North Island side pulled level, when Melanie Ünterhausen squared a pass for the on rushing Johan Shearer, who blasted his strike high into the top of the net, leaving the keeper with no chance.

A fierce contest ensued, and in the end it took something special from Ivan Archic - so often the hero - to clinch the game for the team from New Belfast. The Nekulturnyn showed great vision to turn in Holly Addison's cross at the back post, from an impossible angle, to give his side the win.

Man of the match: Tomás Fierro

Regional Divisions - Second Tier
In a bid to make football more sustainable in Schottia the second tier is split into four Regional Divisions. This was in an attempt to cut down travel time for fans and players, while giving a greater number of sides a chance at promotion. The champions of each league win promotion to the SPL, and the side finishing bottom is relegated to the Regional Conference. Other sides may be relegated too depending on which sides come down from the SPL, keeping the number of teams in each league at ten.

Division A - Greater Handon, Marionville, New Belfast, and New Scotland.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Regional Development Side A   36   26   6   4    73   34  +39    84
 2 Handon North                  36   24   7   5    74   29  +45    79 Promoted
 3 Kirk Preston                  36   23   6   7    79   46  +33    75
 4 Hillstreet                    36   20   7   9    95   58  +37    67
 5 Marionville Thistle           36   19   5  12    80   61  +19    62
 6 Adelly Road                   36   11   8  17    48   64  −16    41
 7 Abermerlock                   36   10   8  18    43   71  −28    38
 8 Huntley Hunters               36    5   7  24    38   77  −39    22
 9 Oxlaey Court                  36    5   6  25    38   84  −46    21
10 Bridge of Hawick              36    3   8  25    39   83  −44    17 relegated

Division B - Central South Schottia, Lammerton, Eastern Eusebia, Port James, and Belker.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Mucusia                       36   27   6   3    80   29  +51    87 Promoted
 2 Port James                    36   21   7   8    62   37  +25    70
 3 Regional Development Side B   36   17  12   7    52   35  +17    63
 4 Herman Park                   36   18   7  11    56   39  +17    61
 5 Wallshill                     36   18   4  14    47   47    0    58
 6 Lammerton Eels                36   17   3  16    69   51  +18    54
 7 Lammerton Wonderers           36   14   8  14    56   47   +9    50
 8 Central Stars                 36   13   1  22    62   77  −15    40
 9 Frank Region Stars            36    4   7  25    27   73  −46    19
10 Kelsvie                       36    0   7  29    28  104  −76     7 Relegated

Division C - The North Islands, La Gorla, and Bergstadt.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Jena VB                       36   19   8   9    58   38  +20    65 Pormoted
 2 Regional Development Side C   36   18  10   8    53   41  +12    64
 3 La Harve                      36   18   7  11    57   48   +9    61
 4 Allous VB                     36   17   8  11    73   62  +11    59
 5 Stalker Bay                   36   17   7  12    68   53  +15    58
 6 Soessch 1990                  36   14  12  10    67   53  +14    54
 7 Dantum                        36   16   6  14    64   54  +10    54
 8 Wolbeck                       36   14   9  13    53   54   −1    51
 9 Baumann VB                    36    5   7  24    32   71  −39    22
10 Reengree                      36    2   6  28    30   81  −51    12 Relegated

Division D - New Island

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Regional Development Side D   36   29   3   4    94   45  +49    90
 2 New Island                    36   18   9   9    71   53  +18    63 Promoted
 3 Coldstream Farmers Union      36   19   5  12    68   48  +20    62
 4 Snubbeack Rock                36   16  10  10    70   55  +15    58
 5 Garvald                       36   16   8  12    66   68   −2    56
 6 New Town Thistle              36   15   5  16    58   55   +3    50
 7 Stevenson Wonderers           36   13   6  17    51   54   −3    45
 8 Arnahm                        36   12   8  16    47   56   −9    44
 9 Bolton Green                  36    8   2  26    29   70  −41    26
10 Berwick Celtic                36    2   8  26    32   82  −50    14 Relegated

Series B Champions' Cup Play-offs

Semi-finals-
Jena VB 2–5 Regional Development Side A
Mucusia 1–0 Regional Development Side D

Third place play-off-
Regional Development Side D 2–1 Jena VB

Final-
Mucusia 2–2 Regional Development Side A (3–2 AET)

Mucusia, Regional Development Side A, and Regional Development Side D Qualify for the Series B Champions' Cup

Youth Football - Junior Championship

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Handon United                 30   24   3   3    77   32  +45    75 Champions
 2 Regional Development Side A   30   21   6   3    60   22  +38    69
 3 FC Soessch                    30   20   5   5    61   33  +28    65
 4 Regional Development Side C   30   18   8   4    62   24  +38    62
 5 Regional Development Side B   30   18   7   5    65   40  +25    61
 6 Port Sebastian                30   19   2   9    65   37  +28    59
 7 Handon Ladies                 30   17   6   7    57   29  +28    57
 8 Dundee                        30    9   5  16    37   50  −13    32
 9 Marionville                   30    7  10  13    46   71  −25    31
10 Regional Development Side D   30    7   7  16    39   65  −26    28
11 Kings Park                    30    7   4  19    43   65  −22    25
12 Port James Athletic           30    6   7  17    35   61  −26    25
13 New Belfast Warriors          30    5   7  18    36   55  −19    22
14 Cornellians                   30    6   4  20    36   66  −30    22
15 La Gorlions                   30    5   7  18    30   63  −33    22
16 Lammerton                     30    4   6  20    29   65  −36    18

by **Schottia** » Thu May 12, 2016 12:33 am

Schottic Premier League

2021-22

Preview
-Part One-

Playing squads for the upcoming season, with provisional starting eleven, and notable reserves. Teams listed in no particular order.

Alexander Pearce has a problem this season. A nice problem to be sure, but a problem nonetheless. After a deal involving the club's captain Eloisa Purinton fell through on deadline day, Cornellians now find themselves in the position of having a glut of good strikers. The U-turn, believed to the result of a change of heart, now means Pearce will start the season with the Gloriaxian skipper, $20m man Kel Koromin, and rising Cosumarite star Kathryn Kvanderwyk all on his books. With the Eagles two golden girls performing so well last season, Koromin will have a tough time breaking into the champions' line up, however, with the Cenian's obvious top-class talent, you wouldn't bet on it taking him long. Perhaps more straightforward is the midfield, which more or less picks itself after their performance last term. Deep-set playmaker Tsumugi Narita is the one who laces everything together, and the 19-year-old Kirisakian has been a key player for Pearce over the years. Playing along side her is cultured midfielder Casey Brind, who brings with her a lot of experience in the Nepharim Premiership. Suring things up in the holding role is Mesillian winger-turned-midfielder Eula Richard, who has adapted to the role incredibly well over the last 18 months. The quartet in the middle of the park is rounded of by Jedorian number-ten, Cosmin Dobrescu, who has been a faithful servant to the club since its foundation, and a source of many goals over the years. Part of Cornellians' success is the fact that they are strong in every department, and their defence is no different. Scott Burton is a fully-fledged Schottic international, while Triffid Ramsey has represented Iskandervale at the last two AOCAF tournaments, and Santiago Lowe has also been capped for Adiron. While Stephen Gargo is still yet to receive a senior cap for Cosumar, the 23-year-old has feature for the U-23s at the Emperor's Cup. With quite a narrow midfield unit, one of the main functions of the wing-backs in this side is to push forward and support the attack, something they both do very well. In goals for The Eagles is Schottia's current third choice keeper, and DBC-33 winner Jeremy McNott.

Prediction: 1st. Champions, and most likely runaway champions at that! Probably better in almost every department than the rest of the field, and with the strength and depth they have in attack, they have a distinct advantage over the other teams at the top.

Star player: Eloisa Purinton | Rising Star: Tsumugi Narita

International Competition: Champions' Cup

Another season has gone by and Handon United seem no closer to the Premier League title. It is now six years since the side last lifted the SPL trophy, an agonising wait for their fans, who have been used to much better times. Manager Carl Sorensen has overseen a lot of changes in his two seasons at the club, in a bid to stop the side's decline. Many of the old favourites have now made way, ushering in a new generation of stars. There have been two more high profile departures this season, with arguably the side's most influential players taking their bow. Schottia kepper Lucas D'Araby was the first to head to the exit door following the arrival of Cenian No. 1 Jacrian Ryaden - leaving to join up with Lotus Park in Brenencia. This was followed by the long awaited retirement of 37-year-old club captain Colin Donaldson hanging up his boots after twenty seasons with the club. Sorensen seems determined to work with what he's got as he looks for a way to fill this gigantic black hole, and promising young midfielder Devon Carranza-Jones, looks set to be handed a starting berth. The 23-year-old Semar will slot in along side Schottia international Alf Seggerson, in what will be a new look central pairing. United are particularly strong in the wide areas with 20-year-olds Christian Lovenkrands and Aya Bernman both capable of attacking with devastating pace. This season they are joined by Kirisakian wingback Mana Satō, who for all her defensive frailties, remains a force to be reckoned with going forward. Teenager Satō joins a back four of Esteke Inanuk, Tameka Ninetyseventh, and Nathaniel Bueno-Wells, who all looked very strong last season as the side only conceded a total of twenty-nine goals. Spearheading the attack, for the third year in a row now, are Semarlandic duo Isaac Nketiah and Serge Mavididi, who both have senior caps to their name, and have proven themselves to be a reliable source of goals.

Prediction: 2nd. It will be another hard result for the fans to take, but we don't see United quite catching the Eagles, not since the signing of Koromin.

Star Player: Alfred Seggerson | Rising Star: Serge Mavididi

International Competition: Globe Cup

It is a settled squad this season for Conner Watts, as Porty look to win back their title from the hands of Cornellians. The only change from the side which finished second last year is the loss of young centre-back Lara Silverstein, who returns to Nephara following the conclusion of her loan spell. The club have also picked up Darvale's Louis Patterson on a free, a player whom they may look to as a long term replacement for Jack Baxter. The club will once again look to star striker Demba Traore to come up with the goods up front. The striker netted an incredible 27 goals last season as he came out of nowhere to establish himself as one of the league's most feared attacking threats. Joining the young Semar in attack are Quebecois striker Giancoma de Jerusalem, and Schottic wing-forward Joey Bia, neither of whom are lacking in the goals department either. The real strength of this side, however, is at the heart of the midfield, with club captain Jack Baxter and Ko-oren internationalist Emiline Millet. The two are an excellent foil for one another, with Baxter's steadfast defending covering for Millet's forward runs. Bringing some much-needed technical stability to the side is Kirisakian left-winger Chiyoko Sakuraka. Plucked from the nation's +90 squad, the 22-year-old is important in providing the kind of deliveries Traore thrives on. Defensively, Port Sebastian are equally sound: U-21 caps, Esther Abner, and Paul Doig marshal the wingback positions, and the tried and tested Max Peterson plays in the centre, in front of Schottic No.2 Chris Gonzaö. The only change in personnel from last season is the inclusion of 21-year-old Sloane Kirkland, who fills in for Silverstein at centre-half.

Prediction: 4th. Might be a case of slipping back for the Steel Men, but we have said that before and look what happened then. They have a great side, but with a resurgent Warriors to cope with, there could be trouble.

Star Player: Emiline Millet | Rising Star: Joey Bia

International Competition: Globe Cup

Last season was probably the year that Lammerton graduated from surprise package, to real title contenders. It must be a pretty good time to be a Hornets fan, as John Sedder's boys and girls have managed to finish in the top four three seasons running now, improving all the time. Last season, the side rode out the loss of their talismanic striker John McCormack, and arguably got even better. Merry Osbourne, McCormack's direct replacement hit the ground running, as the Brenecian formed strong working partnership Schottain John Copper in attack. Playing just behind them is Western Sunrise wonderkid Mars Alexandersson, the 20-year-old who was utterly outstanding last year, and can produce the kind of quality delivery that the two natural strikers up front rely upon. Behind Alexandersson, Lammerton play a midfield of three, with the experienced Timo Düd, playing alongside Cosumarite DBC star Robard Horvat, and new $4.5M signing Jasper Valaren. Valaren who was part of a clearout at Azoth The Cenian side's loss is likely to be Lammerton's gain, as the 18-year-old has more than enough talent needed to be a success at this level. On the topic of new signings, Sedder has done another good bit of business in recruiting highly rated Semarlandic defender, Marcel Smith-Hammond who arrives from Döllar. The North Island side's surprise relegation paved the way for the $350K move. The 26-year-old slots in alongside the dependable trio of Owen Betler, Gray Fresue, and Paul Yarrow, with Tim Fines, as ever, in goals.

Prediction: 5th. It’s hard, because people keep betting against them, and keep being proved wrong. There is no doubting the fact that they could be a good outside bet for the title, but it's far more likely that they end up roughly about the same place as last year.

Star player: Mars Alexandersson | Rising Star: Jasper Valaren

International Competition: Globe Cup

If New Belfast Warriors start this season they way they finished the last, then the other sides well need to be very careful indeed. After several years of struggling with consistency, following their title success, The Whalers seem to have finally found a leader in Graeme Collins. Under his stewardship the New Belfast side took the league by storm, going from being under threat of relegation eleven games in, to pushing for a Globe Cup spot by the end of the season. With all the makings of a great side already, the fans will be very optimistic following the signing of two relatively high profile stars. Kirisakian Miki Kurugaya, should combine well with veteran striker Ivan Archic, providing a physical, and imposing presence in the attack. The Warriors go with a traditional 4-4-2 formation, with Schottia midfielder Holly Addison, and up and coming Cenian star Tomás Fierro in the centre. Both players looked comfortable throughout the second half of last season, looking as good as any midfield in the country. On the flanks, there is plenty of pace in this side, with former Schottic DBC winner Craig O'Maramy, and the ever-dangerous Quebecois winger Adrienne O'Callahan. Collins has strengthened in defence, with the addition of Schottic U-21 star, left back Saskia Holden, completing a $2.5M move from Bayern Phoenix in Taeshan, after a five-year stint with the club. She joins former DBC teammate Victoria Schute, and the experienced central pairing of Kenny McDermot, and Giordi Dinara. In goals, as ever, is 36-year-old vice captain Keith Cumberton.

Prediction: 3rd. The Warriors are back! (Okay I know we've also said this before.) The 2018 champions had a great run-in towards the end of last season, and having taken efforts to improve their squad further, they will be up there challenging at the top.

Star Player: Ivan Archic | Rising Star: Tomás Fierro

International Competition: Cygnus Cup

Soessch are a side who really need a big improvement this time round. Up until two years ago they were one of the sides you could count on to be there or there abouts. However after one poor season they sacked long term boss Jurgen Peters and all hell seems to have now broken loose. New manager Gary Stoot kept his job last season by the skin of his teeth, and he has taken great pains to try and build the playing squad back up. This is a task which is becoming increasingly difficult given the continued lack of UICA football, which means it is getting harder and harder to attract a certain calibre of player. Die rote Teufel have lost Melanie Ünterhausen who was so important to them last season as a source of goals, as the 20-year-old returns to her parent club Arsenal de Releinthi. This has presented another problem, in that it was the young loanee - rather than the clubs more established striker Bruno Schwartz - who performed better last season, leaving a fourteen goal black hole to fill. The girl Stoot has deemed fit for the job of replacing her is tier-two goal machine Sara Foucault, who managed an impressive twenty-three goals in thirty-one starts last season, and has been touted for a while as an SPL standard player. The rest of the side remains unchanged, with a midfield of Shearer, Dickson, Holstad, and Ümann. Till Ümann, was the one time golden boy of Schottic football, however injuries and a subsequent dip in form have seen him slip of his development curve. Konstantin Holstad is arguably the star man in this side, or at least he should be on paper, however, the Polar Islander, like Ümann, has never quite found the form he is capable of over the last couple of seasons. Sadly for Soessch it is a similar story for DBC winner Chris Dickson, who has definitely looked lacklustre over the last twelve months. The one shining light in the midfield was Nepharim winger Johan Shearer, who along with Ünterhausen really helped drag their team out of the mire last season. On paper, the back four should be the strongest part of the side, with Schottia international Chris Okywä and Port Christopher's Moritz Wessel in the centre. Former Schottic U-21 keeper Harry Gould comes in from Port Sebastian in goals, and Stoot will have to hope the 22-year-old can make the step up to first team football.

Prediction: 7th. They should do better than last season, but it is going to be tough for Soessch to see a big upturn in the course of one season, given that the personnel is relatively unchanged.

Star Player: Johan Shearer | Rising Star: Sara Foucault

Kings Park have been one of the success stories of the new era in Schottic football, and after finishing second three years ago, have firmly established themselves as a top-third of the table side. There is no doubt going to be some difficulty this season, in adjusting to the loss of Corvid Alemane, after the Nepharim lonee was so effective last time round. However the side have brought in 18-year-old Kirisakian wide-girl Yuiko Kasugano, who they hope will do a turn. The side had great success last season with the strike force of Francis Keelinan and youth-academy graduate Estelle Conway, both of whom performed well together. One of the side's real strengths is in the midfield however, with the impressive Erin Braden in the centre alongside young Cenian, Sendoa. Kasugano will of course slot in on the right, as a direct replacement for Alemane, with Schottic internationalist Darren O'Brian on the left. The Royals' strength has always been in the attack, with defensive frailties often being their downfall. That said, the side have definitely unearthed future star in the form of 22-year-old centre-back Richard Dachs

Prediction: 9th. Kings Park are in that group of sides who could be at best challenging for second and third, or at worst clinging to the top half of the table. Where they finish is very much up in the air.

Star player: Erin Braden | Rising star: Estelle Conway

Despite what we would all agree was a relatively good season for The Lions, they are undoubtedly slipping back. Seventh, eleventh, twelfth: are their last three league finishes, and while manager Pascal Voitle is still popular among the fans, he will be mindful of the fact that he needs to improve. The performances of a few of the side's younger stars - in particular Jade Irwin - glossed over the fact that the club have an aging strike force no longer quite up to the job. Jago Avelione, and Davy Ellan, 35 and 32 respectively, have been at the sharp end of this side for eight seasons now, and one can only ponder as to whether this now needs to change. They have good contrast in the midfield however, with Fredrick Houben a good foil for the wing forwards Billy Small and Frank Samuels who both like to support the front two. But the girl who makes them tick is 21-year-old Irwin. The Nepharim playmaker shocked us all last season, after being deemed not good enough by Crisisbless United, she really took the league by storm. One other piece of good news for the Lions is that their defence looks pretty sold, with Marcus Pfab, Vinod Purteer, Christy Snell, Christy Snell all up for a fight. What is more, the addition of keeper Janne Mtiliga on loan from United, gives them a potentially top class player between the sticks.

Prediction: 10th. Slight improvement, La Gorlions look like they are going to be a tough team to beat, especially at home.

Star player: Jade Irwin | Rising star: Juan Velente

Marionville go into this season on the back of a very strong finish last time round, where they ended up in sixth place, only six points off the UICA spots. Despite constantly hanging around the top end of the table, The Old Boys always seem to miss out on the title race, which normally leaves them behind. That said, Marionville have one of their strongest sides in a very long time at the moment, and after narrowly missing out last time round, this might be their moment to shine. Basil Bunton's team line up with five in midfield, supporting loan striker Michael Maxwell, who has made a career out of being solid, without being spectacular. The real threat in attack is Pasagran youngster Vojnomir Nikolic, who has been the side's top goal scorer for the last two seasons. He plays in front of the robust central midfield duo of Barry Stewart and Jonny Birch, who take few risks, and even fewer prisoners. Down the right they have the speedy Jarred Clotterman - and on the left, new signing Alyssa Haight, who joins form the South Laithland youth system. In defence, club captain David Daller has Schottic caps to his name, and Jonas Pedersen, brings much experience from the Semarlandic league. Goalkeeper Pearce Brice is also very sold as the clubs last line of defence.

Prediction: 6th. It seems to be about their level at them moment, but a few places either way would also be reasonable.

Star Player: Barry Stewart | Rising Star: Vojnomir Nikolic

Port Partrick, since winning the Regional Divisions title three years ago, have taken the SPL by storm. Sixth place two year ago and eighth last year; they have been the exception to the rule that the newly promoted teams generally struggle in the top tier of Schottic football. They have had to cope with the loss of star striker Heron Crew, and right back Esther Abner, but they have done so admirably, bringing in inexpensive players, who represent round pegs for round holes. The experienced strike force of Jane Swanson, and veteran Schottic international Paul Coine has served them well, and their is no sign that that is going to change this season. In midfield they have a good blend of youth and experience, with former Cornellians winger, Willy McIntyre, and Big Kev Morton, playing along side Schottia winger Cerys Kennicot and new signing Connie Malone. Malone, who will have been desperately disappointed to have been cut loose from Rovers just as she hits her twenties, is definitely of the same mould as many of the other players in this side. Port Patrick's star defender has been former Handon United academy graduate Davy Keates. The big centre back has put in some very strong performances for his club since they landed in the SPL.

Prediction: 8th. Probably no reason why The Breakers can't finish strongly once more. They have real quality in their ranks.

Star Player: Cerys Kennicot | Rising star: Connie Malone

by **Schottia** » Thu May 12, 2016 5:40 am

-Part Two-

Under the management of Karla Blackett, Port James Athletic are slowly seeing their results improve, and after a poor start to life in the UICA era of Schottic football, they managed ninth place last season. While this is far from the same standard as the Athletic side of nine or ten years ago, it is definitely a step in the right direction for the Seasiders. The starting eleven form last season is unlikely to be altered much, with experienced Deadoran Dahrla Bhosz, and 23-year-old Semar Remaine Clarke in the attack. In the midfield, the team rely heavily upon team captain Joseph Preca. The Eusebian has really matured into a cultured right sided player, producing excellent deliveries week in week out. Another standout player for them last season was Palle Ellsmere, the young Polaaskan who previously excelled in a spell at Hollin. The player has heped to inject some grit into the team since his arrival. At they back they have standout Audioslavian wingback Carl Mujica, and behind him is arguably one of the best keepers in the league, Jack Ruver.

Prediction: 11th. Defiantly somewhere around the middle of the table, a good run could easily see them creeping into the top half.

Star Player: Joseph Preca | Rising Star: Palle Ellsmere

D'Itille had to struggle last season, reeling from the loss of their most talented youngster Caitlin L'Attue. That said, they handled things admirably, fighting hard to finish clear of the relegation zone. The Lime Greens come from one of the smallest counties in Schottia, and therefore, they have always found resources thin on the ground. Callum Frir, a title winner as a young man, with New Belfast Warriors, has been an important source of goals for the club, and has slotted in well next to fans favourite Lucas Yashvil. The midfield has a solid anchor in the form of John Scooner and captain Abbus Atamei, the former having joined from Blue Coast in Port Christopher. Ewan Swain and the young Dardan Baris occupy the right and left wing positions. Defence is perhaps where the side are weakest, with Duncan Harris the only real defender of note, the 31-year-old has been capped by his nation at U-21 level.

Prediction: 18th. This could be the end of D'Itille's SPL stay, after seven years in the top division.

Star Player: Callum Frir | Rising Star: Dardan Baris

New Belfast Blues are one of those side which are just part of the furniture, without really ever doing anything spectacular. They always have the problem of being seen as the less glamorous alternative for the city fans, with the Warriors playing just around the corner. Despite their constant struggle, they always manage to put in decent showing, and are the quintessential mid-table side. Never higher than 10th never lower than 16th, they somehow always manage to hang around, no matter how unlikely it seems. As one would imagine, The Blues go into this season with a good squad, but not a special one. Daineri striker Shu, and former Port James striker David Millar lead the attack; two good solid centre forwards, the pair of them are fairly dependable. NBB are probably strongest, however, in the centre of midfield, with former Soessch man, and Schottic U-23 internationalist Gerhart Bitter, playing along side home grown talent Aleksander Heino-Watanabe, who despite having a name that is a bit of a mouthful, has been one of the team's stand out players over the last two seasons. The side's other player to watch, and possibly their prize asset is 24-year-old keeper Jim Black, who has been capped for his country in a B-international.

Prediction: 15th. It isn't going to be an easy season for them, but we have seen the Blues stay up with far worse squads before.

Star player: Jim Black | Rising star: Aleksander Heino-Watanabe

Granton Vale are now going into their fourth season in the top flight, with arguably their best squad to date. In the past there have been suggestions that the side would use any means to stay up, just parking the bus and employing anti football tactics. Taking a look at the current squad however, this might not be entirely true. While the side do have their bruisers, such Tommy Wilson and John Steel, there are also plenty of more subtle players in their ranks. Striker Jack Hobbs has been capped for Schottia at U-15, 18, and 21 level, and while he is yet to really make a mark, he still has enough about him to shine in the SPL. Arron Marcie rejoins the club after four seasons with Lammerton, and they will be hoping it is a fruitful reunion with the player who was so instrumental in helping them achieve promotion. Alongside Wilson in the midfield four are; another former Lammerton star Kris Scott, Scott Cooper who played with Cornellians in the MPL, and long time fans favourite Will Rybka. The back four has been, in the past, where The Beachcombers have experienced problems. This season they will hope that the introduction of Eastfeild Lodge teenager Tygo Pasha can help to sure things up, alongside talented 95X keeper Krista Till, who has been one of the side's most consistent players.

Prediction: 12. This looks like on of the South Schottic side's best teams in years. They should be able to push on and have a good season.

Star Player: Arron Marcie | Rising Star: Jack Hobbs

Very few people, including those involved with the club itself, would have expected Handon North to get promoted last season. However, the Scholars managed to earn promotion from the very competitive Regional Division A, becoming the fifth Handon club (sixth if you count Granton) in the SPL. With the side's transfer budget, it has been a hard task for them to improve their squad to SPL standards, left-winger Bruno Gatling the only notable inclusion, joining from the now defunct Centre of Excellence in Apox. Over the last two or three seasons, Evangeline Querón has been their one quality player in the second tier, helping them punch above their weight. Although the 24-year-old has been linked with a couple of top flight clubs, it remains to be seen whether she has what it takes to keep her side up single handed.

Prediction: 20th. Few pundits out there will be predicting anything other than the wooden spoon for this side, who will really need to dig deep.

Star Player: Evangeline Querón | Rising Star: Bruno Gatling

Hollin, and their legions of hugely passionate fans, have been struggling to live up to their own high standard lately. The side from Belker have never quite adjusted to the loss of Thio Crillin, or the changes to financial restrictions, which have seen the larger clubs able to bring in far more foreign players. Despite all this, Hollin remain a competitive side, and a very good outside bet for a top half place. With former Kings Park man Alan Doolan, and DBC winner Fred Dawson up front, they have a forward line that they know will get them goals. Furthermore, Schottic cap Chris Jack on the right wing can come up with the goods in the centre of the park. Hollin have on occasion been a little weak at the back, so they will be looking to new signing, Cosumarite Praxil Glasspool, to try and sure things up a little.

Prediction: 13th. You would imagine Hollin will end up in about the same position they finished last season.

Star player: Chris Jack | Rising Star: Neil Brown

There has been a huge amount of excitement around this side for a number of seasons now with a great number of neutrals disappointed to see them miss out of promotion last time round. Only established eight years ago, Lilly Kitman's Mucusia side have risen steadily up the lower regional conferences, reaching the second tier four years ago. The club, who borrow their name from the old Maltese word for the region in which Port James is situated were set up as a fans' co-operative movement, which has since gained a lot of traction. Now with a large following behind them, Mucusia's growth has directly mirrored their city rivals' (Athletic) decline. Many players in the team, such as Luke Boldman, Mike Hare, and Gavin Richardson have been with the club since its inception and in some regards are more like board members than players. Kitman's side play a fast paced free-flowing football, and it will be interesting to see how it bares up against some stiffer opposition. The side will be disappointed to have lost star striker Sara Foucault, capped at U-21 level, who has left to join Soessch for $1.2M. As a replacement they have bolstered their attack with the signing of Pasargan teenager Aimée Hétu and the highly rated Flora Klee, who joins for a club record fee from relegated Lammerton City. Joining Gavin Richardson and Laura Smith in the midfield are Central Sunriser Natalie Adams, and Daineri playmaker Ryuni who has caused quite a stir since joining the club. At the heart of the Mucusian defence is young captain Poppy Fayrkirk, who stood out last season with her defensive heroics.

Prediction: 14th. A good debut season is very likely; the only danger is that inexperience could be their undoing.

Star player: Poppy Fayrkirk | Rising star: Natalie "Envy" Adams

Jock Sonny seems to be back, and he is taking Dundee with him. After the shock of being sacked by former charges The Warriors, the former DBC winning manager has gone on help The Panners stay up in their first season back in the SPL. Dundee battled very hard last season, and proved to us all that they are no pushovers, but all the same, they say the second season is always the hardest. Keeping a hold of up and coming star Liam Goncalves has been massive for the club who rely heavily upon the Christopheran both in defence and attack. Up front long time fans' favourite Davy Galmore lines up alongside Christopheran Jacques, who is yet to really show us what he can do at this level. The central midfield of Gustav Fandrich and young Vera Cummings is solid if not a little one dimensional, however it should do a job. The real player to watch in this squad however is 18-year-old Steven Rexmont, who scored a bucket-load in the reserves last season from the left wing. This side's real strength lies in the defences however, with Darvale's James Berkeley playing alongside Goncalves, and former U-21 cap Kevin Scougle.

Prediction: 16th. Avoiding the bottom four is going to be hard for Dundee, but with a manager like Sonny, you never know.

Star Player: Liam Goncalves | Rising star: Steven Rexmont

The very deserved Regional Division C champions Jena will be keen to show the SPL what they are made out of. There is no one pretending that this year is going to be easy for the club from the small mountain town, but they have made a couple of shrewd signings which might just be enough to somehow keep them afloat... maybe. Up front it is a combination of old and new, with homegrown talent James Tegg pitched in alongside Nepharim veteran Marion Scherzer, who joins from Cranequin City. The clubs two new signings Marko Simonsen, and Kurt Hierholzer should be a good combination, with the Semar Simonsen in particular, more than capable of running the show in the midfield. In defence Jena rely upon Felix Harler, a journeyman centre back, to get them out of a few tight spots.

Prediction: 19th. They'll give it a good shot no doubt, but taking one or two of their new signings out of the equation, Jena really don't have the squad to stay up.

Star player: Marko Simonsen | Rising star: Kurt Hierholzer

It must have been a frustrating season for New Island after they were unspeakably relegated two seasons ago. The Auks are back however, albeit with a new manager, but with that same gritty, hard to beat squad of players. Judy Scott, the woman who led Schottia to the victory at the recent U-15 world championships comes in as boss, replacing the very successful Graeme Collins who moved to The Warriors half way through last season. New Island have a wonderfully experienced strike force with Kennick Finlay and Kevin McCrorry, a match for most defences on their day. In the midfield club captain Nikita Clohessy and winger Xander Cross are the players the club will look to when they want to produce something special, and the duo indeed put in a good display last season in the regional divisions. 36-year-old keeper Malcolm Ferguson is a giant in front of the goal mouth and a reliable pair of hands when called upon.

Prediction: 17th. It could be an equally frustrating season for New Island, with many of the teams around them in much better shape financially.

Star player: Nikita Clohessy | Rising star: Wendy Gehnt

by **Schottia** » Tue May 17, 2016 6:23 am

Matchday One to Twelve & Pre-Season

Colin Donaldson's Testamonial
Donaldson's XI 3-4 Sorensen's XI
CD.XI: D'Araby, Gordon, Inanuk, Ninetyseventh, Souter, Avelione, Bernman, Donaldson, Collins, McEnithly, Konstidios
CS.XI: Mtiliga, Parr, Bueno-Wells, Matthias Karbruck, Bendtner, Hemnes, C-Jones, Lovenkrands, Nketiah, Mavididi, Lygaard

With the sun going down on a 20 year career in the Handon United first team, Colin Donaldson was rejoined by some familiar faces as the club said farewell to him in style. The testimonial, played in front of a packed Harbour Hill Stadium pitted Donaldson's select XI against that of Semarlandic manager Carl Sorensen's. In the end, the match finished 4-3, with Semar Marc Lygaard scoring the winning goal for Sorensen's side.

Champions Cup -- Prelim Round
Cornellians 2–0 Monarchs (SCV)

The fairytale for surprise Schiavone LigAnaia champions, the Monarchs, looked like it might be coming to an end this week. Cornellians no doubt entered this match with a degree of trepidation, but a strong, professional performance from Alexander Pearce's side gave them a comfortable 2-0 win. Eloisa Purinton was once again the hero on the night with a double either side of half time, to give the Eagles a lead to defend in the return leg in Schiavonia. Another point of excitement for the home fans was the figure of Kel Koromin, sat in the crowd following his recent $20m transfer.

Globe Cup -- Prelim Round
Lammerton 1–1 Hellinic Rouge (PAS)
(PLS) Novaya Mollen 3–1 Handon United

In the Globe cup there were mixed fortunes for the Schottic sides. Lammerton earned a 1-1 draw with Pasargan side Hellinic Rouge, but they will be well aware that the return leg in Rushmore will be a tricky affair, made all the harder having conceded an away goal. Handon United, on the other hand, will know exactly what is expected of them as they look to somehow overturn a 3-1 defeat when they play Novaya Mollen in Polaaskan. United were utterly overrun by a side they perhaps underestimated, and will now have to pray that Serge Mavididi's late consolation goal will give them a slither of hope.

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

It was a day of strange results as the SPL season kicked of this weekend with only Handon United and Lammerton recording positive results out of the title chasing teams. Carl Sorensen's United recorded a resounding 3-0 win over Granton Vale. Debut girl Mana Satō put in a good performance down the right, with The Beachcombers rarely getting forward to put the Kirisakian wide girl under pressure. Handon Untied opened the scoring after only seven minutes, when Christian Lovenkrands burst past John Steel, whipping the ball across for countryman Serge Mavididi to tuck it away. United doubled their lead shortly before half time, when Devon Carranza-Jones cracked a shot in from the edge of the box. The capital side rounded things off fifteen minutes from the end when debut girl Satō crossed the ball in from deep for substitute Quinn McEnithly to score a rare goal. Things were a lot more difficult for Lammerton who met a very strong challenge from Jock Sonny's Dundee. New teen sensation Steven Rexmont was a constant threat to the Hornets in this match, with the left-winger showing the home fans exactly what they have to look forward to. Lammerton were too strong in the end, however, and a through ball from new signing Jasper Valaren set up John Cooper who scored the game's only goal, with a typical striker's finish. Cornellians' $20M man Kel Koromin came on for the last ten minutes as his side endured a frustrating afternoon at Lochend stadium. Although Tsumugi gave the champions the lead on the stroke of half time, her side were unable to stamp their authority on the match and NBB eventually pulled level with a David Millar goal twenty minutes from the end. Elsewhere The Warriors continued their good run of form with a 2-0 win over La Gorlions, Miki Kurugaya, and Adrienne O'Callahan grabbing the goals. FC Soessch also made a good start with a 3-1 win over Hollin, and Mucusia seemed to adjust to SPL life pretty well, recording a 3-2 win over D'Itille.

Champions Cup -- Prelim Round
(SCV) Monarchs 0-0 Cornellians

It wasn't a particularly enthralling match, but Cornellians got the job done, keeping a clean sheet as they marched into the next round of the Champions' Cup. The Eagles set up not to lose, and that was a telling factor, as they successfully denied the Monarchs time and space on the ball. So far so good, but there will certainly be stiffer challenges lying in wait for the SPL Champs.

Globe Cup -- Prelim Round
(PAS) Hellinic Rouge 1-1 Lammerton (3-4 pen)
Handon United 4-0 Novaya Mollen (PLS)

There would have been a few Schottic fans going to bed pleasantly surprised after both Lammerton and Handon United made it through to the next round of the Globe Cup. How United pulled off the great escape we will never know, but as bad as they were in Handon, they were even better in Polaaskan. Sorensen's side had Christian Lovenkrands to thank in particular, the Semar scored one and set up two, as a much more polished looking United progressed. Lammerton are through as well after taking their tie to penalties. Jasper Valaren capped an incredible week, as the 18-year-old Cenian scored the winning spot kick.

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

Handon United recorded their second back-to-back 3-0 win, this time over Handon North, in what will be one of numerous Handon derbies this season. There was only really ever one side in the game, and United opened up a two-goal lead early on courtesy of a Nketiah double. United pushed their city rivals hard and got the killer third in the second half when a Satō cross landed on the head of substitute Mirka Shitakuari, who turned in her first goal of the season. Cornellians got over their over their early blip, with a well-deserved 3-1 victory over La Gorlions at Danu Parc. The Lions took the lead in this match, when a Jade Irvin pass left the Eagles defence flat-footed, allowing Jago Avelione to give his side the lead. The reigning champions rolled their sleeves up though and equalised soon after with a powerful drive from left-back Triffid Ramsey. Cornellians then took the lead through Kathryn Kvanderwyk after the Cosumarite was set up by strike partner Eloisa Purinton. The result was rubber-stamped fifteen minutes from time, when Kel Koromin grabbed his first goal for the club, rising well to head home a Mabel Finnemark corner. New Belfast Warriors made it two wins out of two this week, as they shape for the title fight. Kirisakian striker Miki Kurugaya made it two in two also, as she put the Whalers in front early on. Athletic pulled level twice in the match with goals from Remaine Clarke and Joseph Preca, but Ivan Archic and Tomás Fierro were also on target for the home side to give boss Graeme Collins a strong start to the season. Like Cornellians, Port Sebastian got back to winning ways, as one of the title favourites earned an impressive 4-2 win at Port Patrick. A Giancoma de Jerusalem double, along with goals from Demba Traore and Jonathan Bia meant that Porty ran out deserved winners. Elsewhere a Merry Osbourne double helped Lammerton to a 4-3 win over Hollin, Gustav Fandrich and Jacques were among the goals as Dundee overcame Kings Park, and Jack Hobbs was man of the match for Granton, as they beat newly promoted Mucusia 3-0.

Champions Cup -- Second prelim Round
(CPV) Madruguinha Buneco Clube 1–3 Cornellians

Cornellians will have been a little unsure what to expect as they travelled to the Capivara Group to face Madruguinha Buneco Clube. Thankfully however, the Eagles were more than up to the test, recording a 3-1 win on the road. Goals from Kel Koromin (2) and Kathryn Kvanderwyk gave the side the win, in a very strong performance for the Schottic champions. With three away goals, they knew that things would have been made much easier in the return leg.

Globe Cup -- Second prelim Round
Port Sebastian 1–1 Tir Snake Strike (CEN)
Lammerton 2–1 Corinthian Spirits (STB)
(OSR) Utica United 2–3 Handon United

There were three decent results for Schottia's Globe Cup sides, as they looked to get the upper hand in their respective ties. Port Sebastian will have been slightly disappointed with their 1-1 draw at home to Tir Snake Strike, as the match in Ceni is likely to now be a struggle. That said, Porty looked pretty good against a side from a higher ranked league, and they are still very much in this. Lammerton faired slightly better against Starblaydi side Corinthian Spirits. The Hornets, who have been playing well this season, can take a 2-1 lead with them back to the famous sporting nation, thanks to goals from Merry Osbourne and John Cooper. Handon United perhaps surprised a few people with their 3-2 win in Osarius over Utica United. In what was a good performance from the strikers in particular, United showed just how much they relish these big nights in the UICA competitions.

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

It might have been early doors, but in the grander scheme of the title race, Cornellians' 2-1 win at home to New Belfast Warriors is an important one. Kel Koromin broke the deadlock 30 minutes in, thanks to a Cosmin Dobrescu assist in his first start for the club, before captain Eloisa Purinton doubled their lead at the start of the second half from the penalty spot, after Saskia Holden had brought down Casey Brind. The Warriors pulled one back in the second half through a Craig O'Maramy strike, after Jenny Lundergrand played him through on goal. His goal was not enough however, and The Eagles were able to ride out their second win on the bounce. Lammerton made it three wins out of three, as they showed no signs of slowing down. A Mars Alexandersson strike form the edge of the D was enough to help the Hornets get the better of a resilient New Island at The Rock Ground, in an otherwise tight match. Port Sebastian also held off a stiff challenge, this time from a resurgent FC Soessch. The champions of two years ago went behind to a Sara Foucault goal at the end of the first half, but Porty stuck to the task and got themselves back into the game with a Demba Traore pile driver on the hour-mark. The home side settled things five minutes from time when Chiyoko Sakuraka turned her marker to deliver a fantastic ball for Kaija Koppel to hit home. In other results: Handon United saw their perfect start to the season go up in flames, as a late Cerys Kennicot goal gave Port Patrick a valuable away win. Steven Rexmont was on target as Dundee defeated The Blues - And finally Pasargan teenager Aimée Hétu's goal helped Mucusia past fellow newcomers Jena.

Champions Cup -- Second prelim Round
Cornellians 0-1 Madruguinha Buneco Clube (CPV)

It wasn't quite the performance the fans packing out Lochend Stadium would have been hoping for, but after a 3-1 win in the Capivara Group, a 1-0 defeat at home was more than enough to see Cornellians through into the all-important play-off round.

Globe Cup -- Second prelim Round
(CEN) Tir Snake Strike a 0-0 Port Sebastian
(STB) Corinthian Spirits 2-2 Lammerton
Handon United 1-0 Utica United (OSR)

Away goals is always a sad way to go out, but despite their best efforts, Port Sebastian were unable to find the goal they needed to take them through against Tir Snake Strike. For Lammerton it was a case of consolidating their own position, having won the first leg by a narrow margin. An early goal from Robard Hovart went a long way to settling their nerves, and they went on knock the Corinthian Spirits out the competition with a 2-2 draw. Handon United followed up their impressive result in the away leg with a very solid 1-0 win at home over Utica United. With away goals in their favour, it was always going to be hard for the Osarians, once United got their noses in front.

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

There was a massive shock this week as Cornellians went down 3-4 to Jena at Lochend Stadium. Alexander Pearce's side bottled it, throwing away the lead twice, as newly promoted Jena claimed a valuable scalp. Eula Richard and Kat Kvanderwyk put the Eagles in front in the first half only for Marko Simonsen and Marion Scherzer to pull The Mountaineers back level. Eloisa Purinton then put the champions back in front latching onto a pass from Tsumugi, before a late double from James Tegg gave the visitors a dream win. Port Sebastian are looking in excellent shape this season, and after a 3-2 win at Lammerton, they are beginning to seem like the team to beat. Jasper Valaren and Merry Orbourne were on target for the Hortents, but it wasn't enough as Emiline Millet, Joey Bia and Demba Traore sent a strong message to the rest of the sides in the league. Dundee continue to be this season's surprise package however, this time defeating La Gorlions 3-0 on the North Island. Steven Rexmont scored his second of the season, and there were also goals for Liam Goncalves and David Hughes, as The Panners showed the rest of the field what they are made of. In other matches - Christian Lovenkrands and Isaac Nketiah gave Handon United a 2-0 win over a poor FC Soessch, Central Sunrise teenager Natalie "Envy" Adams put in a classy performance as Mucusia shocked Port Patrick in Handon, and Sendoa, Estelle Conway, and Darren O'Brian helped Kings Park to a resounding win over New Island.

Champions Cup -- Play-off Round
Cornellians 0–4 Bassabook Old Boys (ZWZ)

It was probably true to say that match with Bassabook Old Boys just one bridge too far for Cornellians, as yet another Champions' Cup campaign looked set to go up in smoke. The Eagles were utterly hammered 4-0, as they played host to the Zwangzug side, leaving them a mountain to climb in the return leg.

Globe Cup -- Play-off Round
Handon United 0–3 Mliona-Lpaka (TUR)
(BRE) North Hall 3–1 Lammerton

Compounding a disappointing week for Schottic clubs in international domestic football, Handon United kept up the tradition of performing badly against Turori clubs. A 3-0 defeat to Mliona-Lpaka in Handon meant the like Cornellians, United's UICA campaign was all but over. Lammerton didn't really perform much better, as they took on Brenecian club North Hall in Esportiva. Despite a goal from young Cenian Jasper Vales, the Hornets never really got out of second gear, going down 3-1 to the higher ranked side.

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

The main event this weekend did not disappoint as Handon United and Lammerton played out a nine-goal thriller at Harbour Hill Stadium. Aya Bernman put United ahead after eleven minutes slotting a Carranza-Jones pass into the far corner of the net, before John Cooper's header pulled Lammerton level. A Serge Mavididi double salvo then gave United a comfortable lead going into the break. In the second half however, Robard Horvat, and Mars Alexandersson pulled the hornets level, before Alfred Seggerson restored his side's lead with ten minutes to go. There was to be plenty of last minute drama in this match, as Jasper Valaren's delightful pass allowed Merry Osbourne to level the scores once again, only for substitute Quinn McEnithly to give her side the narrowest of wins with a strike deep in stoppage time. Cornellians also bounced back this week with a 2-1 win over in form Dundee. It would have been of no surprise to anyone who has watched The Panners' games this season that it was Steven Rexmont who put the home side ahead. The Eagles had enough about them to grind out the result however, Kel Koromin and Mable Finnemark getting the all-important goals. Another side who are in good form right now are newly promoted Mucusia, who held FC Soessch in Port James. The Eusebians could have even taken all three points, had young Polaaskan Stefan Tobiasz connected with Ryuni's corner. With New Belfast Warriors recording a 4-4 draw with Jena, Port Sebastain took full advantage of the situation beating Kings Park 2-0 at Dryerton. There is rarely a match goes by without Demba Traore on the score sheet and this was no different with the young Semar slotting home a first half double, to give his side the win in an otherwise tight affair. Elsewhere Kennick Finlay gave New Island a first win against NBB, Jade Irwin curled home a 25-yard effort as The Lions narrowly defeated Hollin, and Palle Elsmere scored the only goal of the game as Athletic defeated Handon North.

Champions Cup -- Play-off Round
(ZWZ) Bassabook Old Boys 3-0 Cornellians

After their humbling at the hands of Bassabook Old Boys in Lochend, The Eagles knew they were going to need to find something special if they were going to go through to the group stages of the Champion's Cup. Unfortunately it was more of the same however, and another 3-0 defeat underlined the need to add more players with UICA experience if they are to do better in future.

Globe Cup -- Play-off Round
(TUR) Mliona-Lpaka 2-2 Handon United
Lammerton 0-1 North Hall (BRE)

Both Schottia's Globe Cup representatives had a lot to do if they were going to make the next round, having been soundly thrashed in the opening fixtures. United dug deep, earning a 2-2 draw Mliona-Lpaka, but it was never going to be enough to see them through. Despite second half goals from Serge Mavididi, and Aya Bernman, there was no way back for Carl Sorensen's side. Lammerton also gave it everything they had, attacking their Brenecian opponents for full on 90 minutes. In the end however, North Hall's quality told, as their break away goal ended the Hornets' UICA campaign for yet another year.

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

Traditionally, one of the most hotly anticipated SPL fixtures is Kings Park vs. Handon United and they left us on the edge of our seats once again, as the match ended 4-4. The Royals went at the visitors from the kick-off and on another day goals from Erin Braden, Francis Keelinan (2) and Sendoa, would have been enough. United, however, salvaged a point late on when Serge Mavididi was on hand to nod in an Alf Seggerson corner. Lammerton really needed a result this week after a slight dip in form, and what's more, they had to negotiate potential banana skins, Mucusia. The Hornets stuck to the task however, and a second half goal from Merry Osboure was enough to see off the Eusebians. Port Sebastian continue to make good headway, a 3-0 win at New Blefast Blues the latest in a string of handsome results. The North Handon side are really shaping up to be the team to beat this season, and goals from Emiline Millet, a Giancoma de Jerusalem, and Kaija Koppel helped them stamp their authority on the match. New Belfast Warriors continue to make good progress also, an Ivan Archic double helping them get the better of Granton Vale, after a superb team performance. It really seems like Graeme Collins has the Whalers playing some good football now, and the addition of Kurugaya and Holden have only enhanced that. In other results: Cornellians had a comfortable win over Hollin, with Cosmin Dobrescu and Kel Koromin both on the score sheet. Despite Jade Irwin being on target yet again, it wasn't enough for The Lions to defeat New Island with the result finishing 2-2. And both Paul Coine and Kevin Morton were on target for Port Patrick, as they marched to a hard earned win over Port James Athletic.

Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round
Cornellians 1–1 Willox Street Pirates (PCR)

Like some strange combination of a friendly and a grudge match, Cornellians welcomed their Christopheran cousins to Lochend Stadium. Alexander Pearce's side stood on the brink of a place in the group stages of the Globe Cup, but unfortunately the Willox Street Pirates barred their way. The horrible truth was - even if many Schottians didn't like it - The Pirates were not going to roll over easily in this match, and the Super-League's finest were easily as good on paper as the Schottic Champs. This fact was perfectly illustrated, as the Pirates took the lead through a Yunji header after fifteen minutes. Cornellians fought hard, and battled their way back with a Kel Koromin goal on the stroke of half time, but for all their efforts, their was no way through the visitors' defence, and the match finished all square.

Cup Winners' Cup -- First Round
(PAS) Galatica 4-2 New Belfast Warriors

For those who have followed Schottia's previous attempts in the Cup Winners' Cup, it will have come as no surprise that the Warriors trip to Pasarga was in the end fruitless. Despite a good run in the league this season, and goals from Tomás Fierro, and Ivan Archic, the New Belfast club eventually went down 4-2 to Galatica.

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

One match which promised to be an exciting encounter this weekend was Kings Park's visit to Mucusia. With both sides opting for an attacking, free-flowing style of play, it was always going to bring goals and a very open contest. The side from Port James struck first blood, with a goal from Flora Klee, as the twenty year old responded quickest to a mix up in the Royals defence. Kings Park were in the lead before half time however, with Francis Keelinan and Yuiko Kasugano putting the Handon side in front. Mucusia responded shortly after the break, with Envy Adams and Laura Smith combining well to set up Aimée Hétu for her fourth goal of the season. It was Schottic DBC star Estelle Conway who would have the final say however, tucking away a Sendoa pass in the dying minutes to take home all three points. It was also goals galore in South Berwick, as Cornellians game from two goals down in the last ten minutes to draw 4-4 with New Island. The RD-D Champions must have felt they had done enough to shock the two times SPL champions when Nikita Clohessy put them 4-2 up on 76 minutes. The Eagles were down but not out however, and after Eloisa Purinton curled in a free kick five minutes later, the visitors went on to savage a point as Casey Brind powered home from the edge of the area following a clever lay off from Kel Kormin. New Belfast Warriors also had to fight hard this week, however goals from Ivan Archic and Holly Addison were enough to give the Whalers victory against a battling Dundee side. Elsewhere, a late Robard Horvat goal gave Lammerton a smash and grab win over Marionville. Jane Swanson and Connie Malone's goals were enough to give Port Patrick a 2-1 win over D'Itille. And a single Nathaniel Bueno-Wells header was all United needed to brush past New Belfast Blues.

Globe Cup -- Qualifying Round
(PCR) Willox Street Pirates 2-0 Cornellians

If Conellians fans were upset with their side's result at home, they were positively furious with the 2-0 defeat in Port Christopher. On the balance of play they could have had no real complaints, however some of the more reactionary sections of the crowd were even calling for Alexander Pearce's sacking. An outstanding goal from Boötia, and late strike from Schottian Jenny McDonald, sent The Eagles out of UICA football before the group phase once again.

Cup Winners' Cup -- First Round
New Belfast Warriors 1-1 Galatica (PAS)

There was no fairytale, no late fight back, and no heroics, as The Warriors became the last Schottic club to head for the international domestic football exit door. Despite a draw with the Pasargan side, they couldn't come close to overturning the deficit form the week before.

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

There was one pivotal result this week, in an otherwise low scoring set of fixtures. Port Sebastian laid out their intent to reclaim their title with a 2-1 win over Cornellians at Lochend Stadium, with their opponents not pulling away the way we expected. It was all going to plan for Alexander Pearce's side as Kathryn Kvanderwyk got on the end of a Triffid Ramsey cross to give her side the lead after only 16 minutes. Porty responded well however, first with Esther Abner's long raking ball wreaking havoc in the Eagles defence, allowing Demba Traore to tap the ball in from close range. The Handon side then sealed the win with a low Joey Bia drive from the edge of the box, which pinged off of several legs before ending up in the net. There will likely be a few fans on the New island a little miffed if Xander Cross doesn't win a first call up to the Schottia squad during the World Cup qualifiers, and the right-winger was outstanding again today scoring one and setting up two of his side's three goals against Jena. New Island seem to have gotten off to a decent start this season, as Judy Scott's players look to stay up. With Cornellians dropping points Handon United needed a big result, but they had to endure a typically frustrating afternoon in the North Mountains, drawing 1-1 with La Gorlions. United took the lead with a well taken Isaac Nketiah strike on 39 minutes, however The Lions weren't going down without a fight, and bounced back with a late Fredrick Houban goal after a nice exchange between Jade Irwin and Billy Small. In other matches, The Warriors were held to a 0-0 draw at home to Handon North, Daineri striker Shu was on hand to help NBB defeat Mucusia, and Bruno Schwarts scored Soessch's only goal in difficult afternoon against D'Itille.

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

After a low scoring week in the previous set of fixtures, the sides more than made up for it with some big results. Kings Park and Port James managed nine goals between them, as The Royals ran out 6-3 winners. There were doubles for both Estelle Conway and Francis Keelinan in this match, as well as goals for Sendoa and Darren O'Brian, with Kings Park capping off a very good win on the road. Lammerton recorded an even more impressive victory, with John Cooper (2), Merry Osbourne, Mars Alexandersson, and Jasper Valaren all on target in their 5-0 win over D'Itille. The Hornets really seem to be hitting some form at the right time this season, and if they are able to keep this up then a fourth consecutive Globe Cup place is not out of the question. There was also an emphatic win this week for Port Sebastian, as they continue to be the early pace setters. A Demba Traore double, along with goals from Giancoma de Jerusalem, and Louis Porter saw them defeat Jena 4-2. There was a great performance in this match from Chiyoko Sakuraka, as the Kirisakian left-winger had a hand in three of the four goals. Elsewhere, Cornellians got a very important win, coming from a goal behind to beat Handon United in Handon. FC Soessch continued their unbeaten run with a 2-1 victory over Granton Vale. And finally O'Maramy and Archic were on hand to give The Warriors a 2-0 win over Hollin.

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

One side who seem to have experienced a turn around in fortunes are La Gorlions, who will have ruffled a few feather with their 4-2 win over Marionville. Davy Ellan opened the scoring for The Lions, sliding in to turn Billy Small's cross into the net for his third of the season, only for Michael Maxwell to equalise after some good work from Alyssa Haight. Haight's countrywoman, Jade Irwin, then put the Lions back in front with a trademark strike from the edge of the area. The home side then went two goal up just before half time when a Christy Snell pass caught the Old Boys defence off guard allowing Jago Avelione to power the ball in from close range. Marionville pulled one back with a wonderful solo effort from young Pasargan Vojnomir Nikolic, but it was too little too late as La Gorlions rounded of the scoring with Avelione's second goal of the game from an Irwin corner. With Port Sebastian going down 1-0 in Dundee to a Jacques goal, there was an excellent opportunity for Cornellians to strengthen their own position. It was a chance the champions duly converted, with Kel Koromin's first half double putting them well on the road to victory over Mucusia. The Cenian's first came courtesy of an ambitious long ball from Eula Richard, which caught everyone napping except Koromin, who scored from close range. The Eagles were 2-0 up just before half time as the $20M signing got the better of Poppy Fayrkirk in the six-yard-box to double his tally for the afternoon. Cornellains added a third in the second half with Cosmin Dobrescu's well taken free kick after Eloisa Purniton was brought down on the edge of the box. The match was long over by the time Daineri attacker Ryuni scored to pull one back for the Eusebians. In other results: Port Patrick recorded an impressive 4-2 win over the Warriors, helped on their way by another top class performance from Cerys Kennicot, who will not be at the club much longer if she continues to play like this. Handon United earned a 1-0 win over a hard working Jena team, with Aya Bernman scoring the only goal. And Mars Alexandersson's double ensured that Lammerton kept the pressure on at the top of the table, as her side defeated Granton Vale 2-1.

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

FC Soessch kept their good run going, and at this rate they stand a good chance of sneaking back into the UICA spots. The side had a very tough test against Port Patrick, who are always good at home, but a Sara Foucault goal seven minutes from time was enough for her side to take all three points back to the North Island. Nepharim winger Johan Shearer did well to take the ball to the by-line before cracking a cross-come-shot across the face of goal. All Altavian Kalhoro could really do was palm the shot, which ended up right in the path of the former Mucusia girl. Meanwhile Foucault's former charges won the battle of the newly promoted teams in style with a 3-1 win over lowly Jena. Flora Klee opened the scoring following a clever pass from Natalie Adams after fourteen minutes, before Pasarga's Aimée Hétu doubled their lead from the penalty spot. Jena then pulled one back after some good play from Marko Simonsen released Marion Scherzer for her third of the season. Moments later Adams added one of her own the round things off for the side from the west. We also saw a great battle this week at the Allen Dixon Arena where Cornellians were forced to battle back from a goal down twice to get the better of a tenacious Marionville. Despite Eloisa Purinton opening the scoring for The Eagles, Marionville were by far the better team early on, and eventually took the lead through goals from Michael Maxwell and Vojnomir Nikolic. Cornellians pulled themselves back level with a piece of brilliance from Kirisakian wonderkid Tsumugi, skipping two challenges to tee-up Kel Koromin for the easiest of goals. The Old Boys came out strongly in the second half and retook the lead thanks to a distance strike from Barry Stewart, however it was only to delay matters as Cornellians struck twice in quick succession through Eula Richard and Kathryn Kvanderwyk, to edge the match 4-3. Elsewhere, Handon United were held 0-0 by Dundee. It was a similar story as Port Sebastian drew 1-1 with Hollin. And New Belfast Warriors defeated New Island 2-0 with Jenny Lundergrand and Miki Kurugaya grabbing the goals.

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

This week there was another incredible result at Lammerton put five past Port Patrick United. The Breakers did score twice in this match, with goals from Paul Coine and Jane Swanson, but The Hornets were just too good, with the young midfield trio of Alexandersson, Horvat, and Valaren looking a different class at times. Another player to really stand out in this game was Brenecian Merry Osbourne, the 30-year-old scoring a hattrick en route to the 5-2 win, which lifted the side to the top of the league. Another fascinating tussle was the 3-3 draw played out between two of the league's resurgent sides, Soessch and the Warriors. On another day the visitors might have felt they'd done enough, with goals from Sara Foucault, Bruno Schwartz, and Konstantin Holstad, but The Whalers were equal to them, scoring three themselves through Ivan Archic (2) and Tomás Fierro. It took them most of the season so far, but Marionville finally got things together with 5-2 win away to Jena. Michael Maxwell was on hand with a double early on, and Alyssa Haight tucked another one away just before half time. Jena came out of the blocks fighting with goals from James Tegg and Kurt Hierholzer, but Marionville responded decisively with another two of their own from Vojnomir Nikolic and Johnny Birch. Elsewhere, Port Sebastian will have been disappointed once again with a 0-0 draw with New Island, Mucusia finished strongly with a 2-1 win at Dundee, and Cornellians were themselves on the wrong end of a 2-1 score line with Port James at Lochend stadium as they lost ground on the leaders.

Monthly Awards:

.                           Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Lammerton                 12    9   0   3    30   18  +12    27
 2 Port Sebastian            12    7   4   1    22   11  +11    25
 3 Cornellians               12    7   2   3    28   21   +7    23
 4 New Belfast Warriors      12    6   4   2    23   16   +7    22
 5 Handon United             12    6   3   3    23   15   +8    21
 6 Kings Park                12    6   2   4    25   20   +5    20
 7 FC Soessch                12    5   5   2    13   10   +3    20
 8 Port James Athletic       12    5   4   3    19   20   −1    19
 9 Dundee                    12    5   2   5    13   11   +2    17
10 La Gorlions               12    4   5   3    16   17   −1    17
11 Port Patrick United       12    5   1   6    19   22   −3    16
12 Mucusia                   12    5   1   6    15   18   −3    16
13 Granton Vale              12    4   3   5    17   18   −1    15
14 Marionville               12    4   2   6    29   28   +1    14
15 Hollin                    12    4   2   6    10   17   −7    14
16 New Island                12    3   4   5    13   14   −1    13
17 New Belfast Blues         12    3   3   6    15   18   −3    12
18 D'Itille                  12    2   3   7    13   23  −10     9
19 Jena VB                   12    2   1   9    16   31  −15     7
20 Handon North              12    0   5   7     5   16  −11     5

Schottic Cup -- Round of Thirty-two

Soessch 1990 0–1 D'Itille
New Belfast Warriors 3–1 New Belfast Blues
Lammerton 6–1 Dundee
Hollin 0–1 Granton Vale
Handon United 1–2 Port Patrick United
Stalker Bay 0–3 Regional Development Side D
Port Sebastian 1–0 Kirk Preston
Lammerton City 0–1 Mucusia
FC Döllar 3–1 Port James
Port James Athletic 0–0 La Gorlions (1–0 AET)
Snubbeack Rock 1–0 Marionville Thistle
Hillstreet 1–1 Cornellians (1–1 AET) (2–3 pen.)
Regional Development Side A 3–2 Handon North
Herman Park 3–0 Jena VB
Marionville 0–1 FC Soessch
New Island 1–2 Kings Park

Schottic Cup -- Round of Sixteen

Port Patrick United 1–2 FC Soessch
D'Itille 4–3 Regional Development Side D
Snubbeack Rock 1–1 New Belfast Warriors (2–1 AET)
Cornellians 2–0 Granton Vale
Regional Development Side A 3–0 FC Döllar
Mucusia 4–1 Herman Park
Lammerton 4–2 Kings Park
Port James Athletic 0–2 Port Sebastian

by **Schottia** » Mon May 23, 2016 11:18 pm

Matchday Thirteen to Twenty-five

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

There was a huge blow this week for Lammerton, as a now revitalised FC Soessch side proved too strong, knocking the league leaders off of their perch. Konstantin Holstad's first half free kick was enough to see his side move up to forth in the league, as the Polar Islander curled his effort past Tim Fines. This meant Port Sebastian were back on top with a well deserved 3-2 win over the Warriors, which Conner Watts side had to work hard for. At one point Port were in real danger of throwing it away after Adrienne O'Callahan and Jenny Lundergrand levelled the scores at 2-2. But the Handon side dug deep and a late Giancoma de Jerusalem strike finally gave them all three points after battling hard for most of the second half. There were also unexpected wins for this season's surprise packages, with both Mucusia and Dundee recording good results. The Regional Division B champions had Flora Klee to thank for her 27th minute goal, which was enough to edge her side past Hollin in Port James; and Dundee came from behind to defeat Marionville 3-1 with goals from Steven Rexmont, Gustav Fandrich, and Davy Galmore. In other matches, an Alf Seggerson free kick helped United to a less than convincing win over New Island at Harbour Hill. Port Patrick did just enough to get past Kings Park, thanks to a fantastic Cerys Kenicott performance. And La Gorlions kept in touch with the UICA places as Davy Ellan's goal helped them scrape past Granton Vale.

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

There will be a few people at Cornellians left scratching their heads, if their side don't start to pull away from the pack soon, but on this most recent showing, that might not happen. A horribly frustrating draw away to D'Itille was their lot the week before, and now a hard fought battle against Granton Vale only yielded a 2-1 win. For all The Eagles' early pressure in this match, it was The Beachcomber who took the lead through Arron Marcie just before half time. In the second half the champs did get their act together however, firstly through Eloisa Purinton, who reacted well to turn in a cross from new signing Rachel Mercurier. The Gloriaxian was then involved her side's second goal, laying the ball off for Casey Brind, who was then able to play Kel Koromin through for a vital finish in terms of the title race. One side who had no such trouble this week was Lammerton, who bounced back from being knocked off top spot with an emphatic win over the Warriors. Mars Alexandersson opened the scoring after fifteen minutes with a well-taken strike from the angle of the box, which seemed to catch out everyone including the keeper. The Hornets then made it two only minutes later when Jasper Valaren's cross-field pass picked out John Cooper. Despite the Warriors' best efforts, including a strike from Ivan Archic, which went just wide, it was Lammerton who had the final say - with Alexandersson slipping the ball into the path of Brenecian Merry Osbourne to finish at close range. Elsewhere, Port Sebastian were winners of the Handon derby, defeating United by one goal to nil. Jade Irwin was up to her usual trickery as La Gorlions defeated Handon North 1-0, and Sara Foucault helped FC Soessch keep their good run going as they defeated Kings Park 1-0 away from home.

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

Cornellians might not be finding things easy right now, but you have to hand it to them, they are still grinding out results. Goals from Cosmin Dobrescu, Kathryn Kvanderwyk, and latest hero Rachel Mercurier were enough to only just out muscle Handon North, in a game where The Eagles never really clicked. Mercriers late finish will come as a huge relief to their fans, after Evangeline Querón (who has emerged as a potential Cornellians target) had pulled the Scholars level with five minutes to go. Port Sebastian kept themselves on course for another surprise title triumph, with a resounding 3-1 win over Mucusia at the Pllier Ground. The Eusebians have proven to be no slouches this season, but they were utterly blown away by a show of pace and power from, in particular; Traore, Bia, and Abner. It was predictably the Semar Demba Traore, who opened the scoring after only six minutes, picking up a clever Louis Porter pass before slamming his shot in from the edge of the box. The home side then pulled themselves level after Laura Smith's initial shot rebounded into the path of Aimée Hétu, for the Pasargan to finish. The result was put to bed in the second half however, with first Joey Bia, and then Giancoma de Jerusalem finding the back of the net in a dominant display for Porty. Marionville recorded a much needed win this week, defeating New Island 2-0. The Old Boys have been struggling a bit this term, and were in real danger of getting sucked into a relegation battle. Marionville took the lead through a stunning Alyssa Haight strike, as the Nepharim winger's hit and hope shot from all of 22-yards went whistling into the top corner. The home side then rounded things off with a late Vojnomir Nikolic goal, in what was a very good afternoon for the club. In other matches; Lammerton heaped more misery on Kings Park who are having to endure a slide in form; Jasper Valaren's goal was the pick of the bunch in a 3-2 win for the Hornets. New Belfast Warriors will also be delighted with a 1-0 win at Handon United. And lastly Port Patrick put pay to La Gorlions recent run with a 3-1 win at Galloway Park.

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

Lammerton were back at the top of the table this week with a 2-0 win at NBB, as Porty were held 2-2 at Marionville. Lammerton are looking good for their money at the moment, and goals for both John Cooper and Merry Osbourne this week meant that the Hornets have now win six of their last seven games. For Cornellians it was a similar story to the previous week, where the side managed to do just enough to get over the line. It was Kel Koromin's turn to be the one to drag them over the finish line this time; the Cenian putting in a tenacious shift up front cumulating in a well-taken goal. Handon United desperately needed a win, and they got it against a Mucusia side who seem to be experiencing a worrying slump. United took the game by the scruff of the neck early on, when Christian Lovenkrands planted a cross on the head of countryman Serge Mavididi, to give them the lead. After a reasonably tight affair, United scored a decisive second when Devon Carranza-Jones' pass for Schottic DBC star Aya Bernman left the teenager in space to slot home her fourth of the season. In other news, Jena got a much needed win over Handon North, The Warriors were held at home by Kings Park, and La Gorlions and Soessch finished 1-1, in the battle of the North Island clubs.

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

There was another stinging defeat for Handon United to deal with this week as they went down 5-4 to Marionville in dramatic fashion. Having led for most of the game through Isaac Nketiah (2), Mana Satō, and Alfred Seggerson, they were undone by two strikes on the 82nd and 86th minute from Michael Maxwell and Johnny Birch. The result will be particularly painful for United who are now in real danger of finding themselves cut adrift from the title race. In a week where Port Sebastian and Lammerton both drew, Cornellians took full advantage defeating FC Soessch. The Eagles had their work cut out, because this seems to be a very different Soessch from the one, which has struggled for the last two seasons. They had Cenian star Kel Koromin to thank once again as their $20m man seems to be coming onto a good run of form at the moment. This is in stark contrast to team captain Eloisa Purinton who has been seriously off the boil this season following the transfer speculation during the summer. There was also a very strong performance from Port Patrick United who won 5-3 over Jena VB. Cerys Kennicot grabbed herself a double, and there were also goals from Connie Malone, Paul Coine, and Willie McIntyre, as the Breakers looked very good in attack. Elsewhere; Miki Kurugaya, and Craig O'Maramy scored in New Belfast Warriors' win over Mucusia; Jacques was on target as Dundee won a tight match with Handon North; while Estelle Conway and Francis Keelinan helped The Royals to beat New Belfast Blues.

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

Matches don't get much bigger than Cornellians Vs. Lammerton at the moment. The Eagles, before the season started, would have considered themselves firm favourites - but the way things are going, this was by no means a forgone conclusion. Everyone was predicting a close game, and in the end it was anything but, as Cornellians saved their best form of the season for the visit of the Hornets. Tsumugi Narita, and Eula Richard put in five star performances in the midfield, with the girls bossing the game from start to finish. While it was unsurprisingly Kel Koromin who opened the scoring, it was to be Kathryn Kvanderwyk who stole the show, with a hard working display, scoring two second half goals for the club. The result would have been music to the ears of Port Sebastian, who once again leapfrogged Lammeton to the top of the table, with a 2-1 win over D'Itille. The Lime Greens scored a fantastic goal in this game through striker Callum Frir, however a workman like performance from Porty got the job done. Kirisakian winger Chiyoko Sakuraka curled in her side's first early in the first half, and after Frir's equaliser, Kaija Koppel used her blistering pace to good effect, leaving the defence for dead before rounding the keeper. Kings Park will be very happy with their work this week, taking all three points from their match with La Gorlions, in a fixture that is traditionally very tricky. Jago Avelione had a good game for the Lions in attack, but even he could do nothing about the King Park onslaught with Francis Keelinan, Yuiko Kasugano, and Sendoa all scoring for the Handon side. In other matches, Mucusia left it late to salvage a point against Marionville with Flora Klee turning in a Natalie Adams pass in stoppage time. Steven Rexmont was a different class as he helped Dundee to a 1-0 win over Port Patrick. And finally an Ivan Archic hattrick helped the Warriors win the New Belfast derby in style; his 87th minute goal the difference between the sides.

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

One side to have improved recently are Marionville, as the Old Boys continue to pull themselves out of the mire this week. A draw with Port Sebastian, along with a win over Handon United, and now a draw with the New Belfast Warriors have taken some of the pressure off manager Basil Bunton. The Warriors have been on good form this season, but Marionville were their match in this game, with Vojnomir Nikolic (2), and Barry Stewart both on the score sheet. Although the visitors weren't at their best, they still managed to put three past the hosts, and will take heart from the fact that they salvaged a point. In another enthralling encounter Cornellians defeated Kings Park 3-2 at Lochely Green. Eloisa Purinton got over her recent blip as she opened the scoring, thanks to a Rachel Mercurier pass. The Royals then levelled the scoring as Darren O'Brian's freekick found the head of Estelle Conway, who nodded in her tenth goal of the season. The Eagles opened the second half with a quick fire double. Firstly, a cleverly disguised ball from Cosmin Dobrescu, set Tsumugi Narita through to slide the ball inside Cliff Smith's far post. Shortly after, Kel Koromin played strike partner Purinton through for her second, which the Gloriaxian tucked away from close range. Both Lammerton and Port Sebastian kept themselves on course at the top of the league also, the former defeating Jena 3-0 in an excellent team performance, with goals from John Cooper, Mars Alexandersson, and Merry Osbourne. Port Sebastian found the going slightly tougher however, with Granton Vale proving stiff opposition at home. The Beachcombers scored through Jack Hobbs and Arron Marcie in a fiercely competitive first half, which ended 2-2. Porty pulled away from their Greater Handon rivals in the second half with young East Vormsian Kaija Koppel and Joey Bia scoring the goals which kept their side up top. Elsewhere Handon United continue to struggle as they were held 0-0 at D'Itille. Port Patrick had another thumping victory defeating Hollin 3-1. And La Gorlions picked up a narrow 1-0 win at New Belfast Blues.

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

With so many newly promoted sides struggling to stay up in recent years, there has been a fair amount of excitement as Mucusia seem to giving a good account of themselves. What's more the side from Port James have been winning matches with young players, playing some attractive football. The Eusebians' visit to D'Itille was no different, as they won the match 3-1 with an impressive display. Daineri "pin-up" Ryuni was first on the score-sheet for Mucusia curling in an excellent strike from the edge of the box, before Aimée Hétu - at full stretch - doubled their lead, turning in a Natalie Adams through ball. D'Itille did pull one back thanks to a goal from Lucas Yashvil, but it was little more than a consolation for the home side, as Flora Klee compounded their misery from the penalty spot. With Dundee also on a rich vein of form, Lammerton's 2-0 win over the Panners looked all the more impressive this week. John Sedder's side have been treating us to some fantastic football this season, as they have somehow gone from mid-table strugglers five years ago, to looking like a really well balanced side. It was one of their new additions Jasper Valaren who opened the scoring, the Cenian no doubt out to show people what he can do after leaving 1860 Azoth. The Hornets' second came from a Mars Alexandersson corner, which the on form John Cooper nodded into the back of the net. Their title rivals Port Sebastian didn't have it all their own way however, as Demba Traore had to come to the side's rescue against their very close rivals Handon North. The Scholars are in real danger of being cut adrift now, and they gave it everything they had against their Port Sebastian rivals, but the Semar Traore's goal was enough to send them home empty handed again. Finally; Handon United earned a 1-0 win over Granton Vale with a goal from Quinn McEnithly. New Belfast Warriors had Tomás Fierro to thank for getting them past La Gorlions - the Cenian winning a tough midfield battle with Jade Irwin. While Sara Foucault and Bruno Schwartz scored for FC Soessch in their 2-2 draw with Hollin.

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

With both Lammerton and Port Sebastian dropping points this week, it was the perfect chance for Cornellians to close right up on their title rivals. The Eagles have been in the kind of form this season that has allowed them to grind out results even when they haven't exactly played fantastic football. This couldn't have been further from the truth however, when the welcomed La Gorla's finest to Lochend Stadium. The Lions had been playing exceptionally well coming into this match, with their central midfield combination of Jade Irwin and Fredrick Houben arguably the best in the league at the moment. Cornellians put in a fantastic performance however, with two second half goals giving them a well deserved win. They broke the deadlock on 49 minutes when Nepharim midfielder Casey Brind played a pinpoint cross field ball for Eloisa Purinton, who sidefooted home on the volley to leave young keeper Janne Mtiliga with no chance. The home side got their second twenty minutes from the end when substitute Mabel Finnemark, played a clever one-two with Kel Koromin, before releasing fellow sub Kathryn Kvanderwyk who didn't pass up the chance to double the side's lead. For Handon North it was a case of hard work paying off, as they earned a 1-1 draw with Handon United. The unmistakable figure of Evangeline Querón was at the heart of everything her side did, and it was her pass for Flipp West, which set up the equaliser, after Isaac Nketiah had opened the scoring for United in the first half. There was also a good win for The Warriors away from home to Port James, who have been going steady too this season. Ivan Archic was as always at the spear point of the Warriors attack, holding off huge pressure from Tomoaki Neyama before squaring the ball for Miki Kurugaya to tuck away. The second goal came after a bit of good play from Quebecois winger Adrienne O'Callahan, who played a delightful crossfield ball for Craig O'Maramy to hammer in from the angle of the box. Elsewhere Konstantin Holstad was man of the match as FC Soessch defeated New Island 3-2, Marionville had another strong win against D'Itille, and Dundee and Kings Park played out a 1-1 draw.

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

Jena will have been left wishing that they hadn't made the journey up the mountains to face La Gorlions, as the Bergstadt side were on the receiving end of The Lions biggest win in a number of years. The 6-0 victory, which saw goals for Jago Avelion, Davy Ellen (2), Jade Irwin, Billy Small, and Fredrick Houben, will have been a rude awakening for Jena, who were by no means playing one of the league's best sides. The result perhaps illustrates just how stiff a challenge they face if they want to stay in this division. Their fellow promoted side Mucusia faired considerably better, beating Handon North 2-1 in Handon. The side from Port James opened the scoring through Aimée Hétu, after the Pasargan showed some lovely footwork in the build up. The Eusebians then doubled their lead as a Stefan Tobiasz cross landed at the feet of Gavin Richardson, for a rare goal from the midfielder. The Scholars did pull one back through Evangeline Querón, after a clever Bruno Gatling pass, but in the end it mattered for little. Cornellians suffered a terrible set-back, after working so hard to pull themselves back into contention, as New Belfast Warriors proved to be a stumbling block for the Lochend side. The result was equally damaging, given the fact that both Port Sebastian, and Lammerton won their respective games 3-1. Holly Addison, on this occasion, spoiled the Eagles party, popping up in the 87th minute to tap home a bodged Santiago Lowe clearance, sending the Eagles home with just the one point. In other results Handon United put in a top defensive performance to hold off city rivals Port Patrick, what's more, Aya Bernman even popped up with a goal to give them all three points. Francis Keelinan's goal was also enough for Kings Park to get the better of relegation threatened Hollin. And finally, a late Gustav Fandrich strike earned Dundee a share of the points at The Blues.

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

At this rate it is going to be very difficult for Handon United to reach the UICA spot, let alone regain the title their fans crave. This week the club found themselves on the wrong end of a 1-0 defeat at home to FC Soessch, as pressure will continue to mount on manager Carl Sorensen. Despite having nearly 60% possession in this match, Handon United just couldn't put the ball in the back of the net. It was Soessch however, who weren't really even in the game, who would come to take all three points with a late Till Ümann goal. All eyes this week were on another part of the capital, as United's city rivals Port Sebastian hosted Lammerton in a top of the table clash. It was the Hornets who started out as the better team, really taking the match to Porty in the first half. Merry Osbourne went close with a volley on the half our mark, and Chris Gonzaö had to be at his best to punch clear a Jasper Valaren strike from the edge of the area. Despite it being a backs to the wall display, it was Port Sebastian who opened the scoring on the counter, with Demba Traore running most of the Lammerton half before squaring the ball for Joey Bia to slot away. Lammerton looked distraught at having gone behind in spite of their early efforts, however they dug deep and got their rewards five minutes from the end. Mars Alexandersson's clever chip pass found team captain John Cooper in space at the edge of the six yard box, and played on side by Sloane Kirkland, the striker was never going to miss from there. Conellians took the chance, once again, to put themselves in an excellent position with both their main rivals dropping points. They were made to work for the win however, as Jena VB put on a good show up in the North Island Mountains. The Eagles came out on top in the end though, and Kathryn Kvanderwyk's goal seven minutes from time meant that the score line finished 3-2. Elsewhere Dundee kept up their incredible form this season with a 1-0 win over La Gorlions, Kings Park had Keelinan and Kasugano to thank for their 2-1 win over New Island, and a Paul Coine brace helped Port Patrick United to a good win over Mucusia.

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

Cornellians seem now to be getting their act together, as they remain top of the table with a 4-1 win over Dundee at Lochend Stadium. There was really very little in the game in an opening-45 which finished 1-1, but Dundee had very little answer for the firepower of their opponents in the second half as the Eagles ran riot. Goals from Kel Koromin and David Galmore had been all the teams had to show for the first half, but the home side came out all guns blazing with an Eloisa Purinton double, and a first goal of the season for Stephen Gargo. The result leaves the defending champs top of the table and looking good all of a sudden. With the players they have at their disposal, there will now be few people betting against them holding onto their title. Similarly, Lammerton showed us all exactly how far they have come, by defeating Handon United 4-1 at the City Ground. In a match that the Hornets dominated from start to finish, they put themselves two goals up inside the first half hour thanks to John Cooper and Merry Osbourne. Despite United puling one back just before half time, Lammerton struck twice more the second half - the pick of the bunch being a 25-yard strike from Mars Alexandersson twenty minutes from time - which sent United home with their tails between their legs. The result will have been all the more important given the fact that Port Sebastion dropped points for a second week running, this time at the hands of Kings Park. Another surprise result this week was Mucusia's 2-1 win away to FC Soessch. Sara Foucault failed to find the net against her former club, and instead it was one of her replacements, Aimée Hétu, who grabbed the headlines as the Pasargan teenager scored a double. In other games, a 1-0 win for La Gorlions against Hollin keeps them in with a shot of making the top ten. Port Patrick closed in on the UICA places with a 4-3 win over Marionville. And finally The Warriors will be disappointed with their 1-1 draw with Jena despite a good performance.

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

Port Sebastian's relative collapse would have been hard to predict at the half way point, but now, with only one draw in their last three games, they have seen Lammerton and Cornellians open up a gap at the top of the table. This week was more of the same for Porty as Shu, and Gerhard Bitter were on hand to inflict a 2-1 defeat on the Handon side as they welcomed New Belfast Blues. Cornellians had no such problems, even if keeping a clean sheet is proving tricky for the Champions. Their 4-2 win at Hollin kept them two points clear at the top of the table and on course to defend their title. A strong performance once again from central midfield the trio of Eula Richard, Tsumugi Narita, and Casey Brind proved to be too much for the little side from Belker. Hollin battled bravely in the second half, but the match was ended as a contest when Eula Richard's 25-yard shot deflected into the path of Kel Koromin for the striker's first of the game. Second place side Lammerton kept up the fine form, John Cooper scoring their only goal in a hard working performance against Mucusia. The newly prompted side fought bravely as usual, but there was always the feeling that The Hornets were going to come out on top. Mucusia looked very good at points in the match, however a few of their stars look like they could do with a season or two more under their belts. In Other results, Handon United's poor form continued with a 1-1 draw at home to Kings Park. Marionville had a stunning 3-1 win over FC Soessch, with Alyssa Haight the hero. And Ivan Archic grabbed a late winner as New Belfast Warriors defeated Granton Vale, to cement their fourth place position.

Monthly Awards:

.                           Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cornellians               25   17   5   3    61   38  +23    56
 .................................................................
 2 Lammerton                 25   17   3   5    53   28  +25    54
 3 Port Sebastian            25   14   7   4    46   28  +18    49
 4 New Belfast Warriors      25   12   9   4    42   32  +10    45
 .................................................................
 5 Kings Park                25   12   5   8    43   36   +7    41
 6 Handon United             25   11   6   8    39   31   +8    39
 7 Port Patrick United       25   12   3  10    42   38   +4    39
 8 Dundee                    25   11   6   8    24   21   +3    39
 9 Marionville               25   10   7   8    55   48   +7    37
10 La Gorlions               25   10   7   8    33   28   +5    37
11 FC Soessch                25    9   9   7    26   26    0    36
12 Port James Athletic       25    9   8   8    34   37   −3    35
13 Mucusia                   25    9   4  12    27   35   −8    31
14 D'Itille                  25    6   9  10    31   41  −10    27
15 New Belfast Blues         25    5   9  11    32   39   −7    24
16 Granton Vale              25    5   8  12    28   36   −8    23
 .................................................................
17 New Island                25    6   5  14    26   34   −8    23
18 Hollin                    25    5   7  13    24   38  −14    22
19 Jena VB                   25    4   6  15    29   56  −27    18
20 Handon North              25    0   9  16    15   40  −25     9

Schottic Cup -- Quarterfinals

Mucusia 3–2 FC Soessch
D'Itille 1–2 Port Sebastian
Regional Development Side A 2–1 Lammerton
Snubbeack Rock 3–5 Cornellians

Schottic Cup -- Semi-finals

Mucusia 2–0 Port Sebastian
Regional Development Side A 3–3 Cornellians (3–3 AET) (3–4 pen.)

by **Schottia** » Thu May 26, 2016 4:26 am

Matchday twenty-six - thirty-eight & Awards

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

Following a shock 3-2 defeat at home to New Island, Cornellians must be left wondering how this could have happened. The Eagles had been sitting comfortably at the top of the league, but the result now allows Lammerton back on top thanks to a 3-2 win over Marionville. It was seemingly born-again winger Xander Cross, who did the damage for New Island, as even Triffid Ramsey struggled to pick the 31-year-old up. In the end it was his cross on 79 minutes, which set up Kevin McCrorry to give their side a memorable win. Lammerton had a similarly hard slog, but at least they were on the winning end of it, as they took on Marionville. Timo Düd's goal on 64 minutes was the difference in an otherwise tight match. Port Sebastian also took advantage, closing to within one point of Cornellians, with an excellent 3-1 win over La Gorlions. Porty finally got clearance to take on loan, Quebecois forward Leonardo Conavacio, who has been training with the Handon side for most of the season after the Guayabalense Liga Premier went on strike. Conavacio came on at half time in this match and showed no signs of rust scoring the side's third thanks to an a assist from Kirisakian winger Chiyoko Sakuraka. Handon United needed a big win to settle a few nerves, and they got it with a 5-1 win at NBB. Alfred Seggerson's free kick was the highlight of the match for the visitors, but there were also goals for Serge Mavididi (2), Devon Carranza-Jones, and Aya Bernman, as United ran riot. In other matches, Flora Klee scored a double, as Mucusia held Kings Park 4-4 in Handon. Archic, Kurugaya, and O'Callahan were all on target for The Warriors as they defeated Dundee. And finally, FC Soessch put in a solid performance, firing three past Port James for no reply.

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

The main event this week was Cornellians visit to Port Sebastian, with so much on the line for both sides. In a match where things got a little messy The Eagles edged it 3-2, and a second half penalty from Eloise Purinton ended up being the difference between the two sides. The match was marred by scuffles however, with seven yellow cards shown, and a bust-up between the players in the tunnel following the game. Lammerton had no such difficulties however, as they stayed top of the table with a 2-0 win at Port James Athletic. Jasper Valaren picked out Mars Alexandersson with a timely through pass to open the scoring on 23 minutes, and The Western Sunriser grabbed a second late on, following a nod down from Merry Osbourne in the six-yard-box. New Belfast Warriors also clung on to title contention with a 3-0 win over Handon North. The Scholars were never really in the game, and now seem confined to their fate, propping up the table for the most part. The Warriors on the other hand treated us to some fast flowing football, with an excellent Tomás Fierro strike on 12 minutes getting the ball rolling. The Whalers added two more through Craig O'Maramy, and Jenny Lundergrand in the second half. In other matches; the Handon United bounce continues with a 1-0 win against La Gorlions thanks to an Isaac Nketiah strike. And FC Soessch's fortunes continued to improve with a 2-1 win over D'Itille, with goals from Bruno Schwartz and Sara Foucault.

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

It's all swings an roundabouts at the top of the SPL table, as Lammerton have now opened up a lead over Conellians, following their 4-2 win at home to D'Itille. The Eagles, for all their efforts the week before, could only manage a 3-3 draw with Handon United, which will in fact do neither side much good. Lammerton had John Cooper to thank for their win, with the Hornets' captain scoring one either side of half time to give his side the edge in an otherwise close game. For Cornellians it was a case of one step forward and one step back in their match. The Eagles found themselves constantly pegged back, despite being the better side for long periods of the game. Port Sebastian's 3-0 over Jena will go some way towards repairing the damage they withstood the week before. Leonardo Conavacio was on target once again in this match, as he made his first start for the club. Demba Traore, and Emiline Millet were also on target for Porty in what was a clinical display. Kings Park badly needed a win this week and they got it in dramatic style, defeating Port James Athletic 5-3 at Lochely Park. In this eight-goal-thriller there were goals for Estelle Conway, Francis Keelinan (2), Sendoa, and Darren O'Brian, but despite the Royals' attacking prowess, they looked very shake at the back for long periods. Elsewhere Port Patrick were held 2-2 as they played host to neighbours Handon North. Dundee swept aside New Island with goals from Steven Rexmont and Jacques. And a late Johnny Birch goal gave Marionville a share of the points at New Belfast Blues.

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

There were nine goals scored in this week's lunchtime kick-off between Lammerton and Granton Vale at Sea Park, as the Hornets' attackers sent a clear message to the chasing pack. John Sedder's players put six past the home side, four of them coming in a twenty-minute period of the second half, where the Beachcombers seemed to switch off. The visitors treated us to a great exhibition of football, along with some clever passing and clinical finishing in a match where they could have scored even more. Merry Osbourne was the star of the show this week, as Brenecian added another two to her total this season. Cornellians were looking for a big result this week after their frustrating draw with Handon United, and they got back to winning ways against Mucusia. The Eagles opened the scoring early on through Cosmin Dobrescu, after the Jedorian did well to get the better of Gavin Richardson. The 29-year-old then did what he does best, slamming his shot past Mike Hare in the Mucusia goal. Dobrescu also had a hand in the second, his free kick starting the wheels in motion in a move which cumulated in Kel Koromin finding the net. It would be unfair to say there weren't any chances for the home side, but Cornellians generally looked good, riding out a 2-0 victory. With three wins - and a draw with Cornellians - in their last four games it's fair to say that things seem to have picked up a bit for Handon United. 20-year-old Christian Lovenkrands was a different class, as he pulled Jena this way and that for the hour he was on the pitch. The Semar had a hand in United's first two goals; squaring the ball for Serge Mavididi to hammer in number one, winning the corner which Nathaniel Bueno-Wells nodded in for the side's second. Despite having to weather a nervy five minutes after Jay Clayton pulled one back for Jena, United put the game to bed with a third goal from debutant Nagisa Habane. The Kirisakian's goal at the age of thirteen, made her the SPL's youngest ever goal scorer, taking the crown from Caitlin L'Attue, who was fifteen years and eight days. In other matches, Port Sebastian had new signing Leonardo Conavacio sent off in their 2-1 defeat to Dundee, Marionville looked in total control as they breezed past La Gorlions 4-0, and New Belfast Warriors proved their metal with 2-0 win away to Port Patrick United.

SPL
New Belfast Warriors 2–1 New Island
Hollin 4–5 Port Sebastian
Dundee 0–0 Handon United
Jena VB 0–2 Mucusia
Cornellians 4–4 Marionville
La Gorlions 2–0 Port James Athletic
New Belfast Blues 2–2 D'Itille
Kings Park 1–0 Granton Vale
Lammerton 2–2 Handon North
FC Soessch 4–2 Port Patrick United

Nerves are really starting to show now, as the teams round the final corner, and the finish line comes into full view. The pressure now certainly seems to be affecting Cornellians, and Lammerton, with both sides hobbling to draws this weekend against Marionville and Handon North. For Cornellians, a share of the points didn't even look on the cards at half time, as they trailed The Old Boys 3-1. Alexander Pearce's players dug deep however, and two goals from, Eula Richard and Kathryn Kvanderwyk in the closing stages, denied the visitors all three points. For Lammerton it was the opposite problem, as they saw a 2-0 lead evaporate, as they were pegged back by a Scholars side who had little left to lose. The Hornets seemed to be coasting with half an hour to go after John Cooper and Jasper Valaren had put them 2-0 up. However, whenever North achieve anything, you can normally bet Evangeline Querón will be at the thick of it, and that was the case today. The feisty little attacker set up the side's equaliser three minutes from the end, dropping the ball into the path of David Carter to level the scores after Flipp West had scored the side's first. With Conavacio serving a one-match ban it was a more conventional looking Port Sebastian line-up as they took on The Belker County's finest, Hollin. In a match where the lead changed hands several times, Porty can count themselves lucky that they escaped with all three points. Hollin battled hard, and in particular 21-year-old Neil Brown in the middle of the park looked very comfortable on the ball. By contrast, Port Sebastian never looked comfortable, and there would have been a lot of nervous faces in stands before Joey Bia scored his side's winning goal. Arguably, the on form side in the league right now are New Belfast Warriors, who look like making the UICA spots for the first time since Schottia entered the competitions. Some nice passing from Holly Addison released youngster Miki Kurugaya for the side's first on 17 minutes, only for New Island's Xander Cross to equalise ten minutes later. The Whalers kept their cool however, and went home with all three points, after a Adrienne O'Callahan cross found the head of substitute Jenny Lundergrand for the team's second. In other matches; La Gorlions put on a good display beating Port James 2-0, Francis Keelinan's goal helped Kings Park past Granton Vale, and Laura Smith was woman of the match as Mucusia defeat Jena VB.

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

With 4-4 fast becoming Cornellians' favourite score line, people must be starting to ask what has happened to the side's ability to close out matches. This time it was Port James Athletic's turn to frustrate the Eagles, when the reigning champions took a trip to The City Stadium. Despite goals from Koromin, Puriton, Ramsey, and Sturridge, Alexander Pearce's players only went home with one point, as they had to watch Port Sebastian and The Warriors close right up on them. Port Sebastian had Conavacio back for this game, but it wasn't the kind of game where the attackers were able to put on much of a show. With New Island coming to town to defend, it was always going to the be the odd goal that would settle matters, and that fell to Kaija Koppel on 55 minutes. Like Corenllians, Lammerton also had the kind of afternoon they would rather forget, in another high scoring match with Port Patrick. The Hornets didn't resemble their normal ruthless selves, as poor defending cost the dear in a match they really needed to win. It is probably fair to say that pressure is now getting the better of a side more used to fighting for fourth spot, than the title. Handon United kept their slither of hope alive with a business like performance against Hollin, with two first half goals from Mirka Shitakuari and Isaac Nketiah, the difference on the day. This weekend there was also a massive win for Kings Park, who managed to defeat Handon North 6-2. With two strikers, Conway and Keelinan, both with their scoring boots on, scoring goals has not been one of The Royals' problems this time round.

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

After a handful of calamitous results, Cornellians finally found the win the so badly needed at home to D'Itille. For a third match in a row the Eagles scored four, but this time (remarkably) they didn't concede four at the other end. It wasn't the prettiest match, and at times the Cornellians passing game came unstuck a little, but at the sharp end they certainly have what it takes. The Eagles opened the scoring early on, as Rachel Mercurier's run to the edge of the box opened up the opportunity for Eloisa Purinton to tuck the ball away. They then added a second before the break when a Dobrescu corner picked out Scott Burton at the back post for the defender's second goal of the campaign. D'Itille pulled one back after the break through Callum Frir, but second half goals from Kel Koromin, and Casey Brind meant that the game was over as a contest long before the final whistle. New Belfast Warriors at Ashley Road it a tough fixture for any side, so Port Sebastian will have been happy enough with the smash and grab win, thank you very much. In truth, neither side really created the kind of chances that would merit taking all three points, and a draw would have been a perfectly fair result. Porty had other ideas however, and ten minutes from the end, Quebecois livewire Conavacio robbed Tomás Fierro of possession in a robest challenge, before feeding the ball through to countrywoman Giancoma de Jerusalem for the only goal of the game. This week also gave us a pulsating fixture as Kings Park and Port Patrick played out a great game at Lochely Green, in the battle for the top half of the table. Both sides could have easily won it, and after a display like this, the biggest question is; why are these teams not higher up the league? Young Connie Malone was particularly impressive for The Breakers, getting her name on the score sheet in this game - and Erin Braden was again a rock in the heart of The Royals midfield, fuelling rumours that a cap may be in the offing. Finally: Lammerton are now in danger of slipping off the pace with yet anther draw, this time with FC Soessch. Handon United were beaten 1-0 on their trip to New Island. And Marionville climb further up the table with a 1-0 win at Dundee.

SPL
Lammerton 2–1 New Belfast Warriors
FC Soessch 1–0 Kings Park
Port Patrick United 0–0 New Belfast Blues
Handon North 0–1 La Gorlions
Granton Vale 0–2 Cornellians
D'Itille 0–1 Jena VB
Port James Athletic 1–0 Dundee
Marionville 1–0 Hollin
Mucusia 0–0 New Island
Handon United 0–1 Port Sebastian

There is no match in Schottic football, which is played with more passion than the Handon Derby. There are several sides from the capital in the SPL at present, but the Derby with a capital D, has always been United verses Porty. Even though United were at home, there was always the feeling going into this one that Port Sebastian were the favourites, and that proved indeed to be the case. In what must have been a hard match for manager Carl Sorensen to watch, the home side were just less up for it, slower to very loose ball, and looked less willing to go forward. Port Sebastian got the goal they thoroughly deserved ten minutes from the end, after some great play from Emilne Millet releasing Demba Traore to score in front of the away fans. Lammerton's 2-1 win over New Belfast Warriors at The City Ground has probably now puts pay to the Whalers' title chances. It was certainly a must win game for Graeme Collins' side, and the way they set themselves up, showed just how much they wanted the three points. The Warriors took the game to Lammerton in the first half, but as is so often the way, they found themselves a goal down after a Merry Osbourne strike against the run of play. Although New Belfast worked hard to get back into the match, pulling level through Craig O'Maramy, it was to be the Hornets who had the final say with Mars Alexandersson putting them back in front. Cornellians' made it two wins out of two as they chase a second league title on the bounce, and made light work of Granton Vale, thanks to two first half goals from Kel Koromin and Kathryn Kvanderwyk. There were also wins this week for FC Soessch who defeated Kings Park 1-0, and La Gorlions who beat Handon North by a similar score line.

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

It was a week that told us precious little in our search for this year's champions, with all the sides in the top four dropping points. Port Sebastian were first to be left shell shocked following a 2-1 defeat to Mucusia at home. After Loanee striker Leonardo Conavacio put Porty 1-0 up after only seven minutes, it looked like the side were coasting, however, last season's runners-up were perhaps guilty of taking their young opponents for granted. Mucusia play a very patient possession football with lots of fast one touch passing, and it just seemed as if Port Sebastian lost the plot in the second half, giving away needless fouls and with them dangerous free kicks. Mucusia first pulled level with a strike from Daineri midfielder Ryuni, after the player did well to find the space to get her shot away. The Eusebians then took home all three points, after Flora Klee finished from close range, with a proper striker's goal. Lammerton faired slightly better, but Kings Park are tough opponents at the best of times, and it was never going to be an easy match at Lochely Park. The Royals wasted no time in going one up, as a Yuiko Kasugano cross met the boot of Francis Keelinan in the six-yard-box. Lammerton pulled level from the penalty spot, after Jasper Valaren was upended by Peter Dachs - John Cooper it was who coolly converted from 12 yards out. The Hornets then got their noses in front after Robard Horvat ha powerful drive from the edge of the area. Cliff Smith saved the initial strike, but as the ball bounced loose Mars Alexandersson was on hand to apply the finish. Back to back defeats, albeit to very good sides, have now made it nearly mathematically impossible for The Warriors to win the title for the first time in four years. Handon United were the guilty party this week, as they gave their fans something to cheer about following a dismal season. Tameka Ninetyseventh, and Isaac Nketiah were on target for United, and although Ivan Archic pulled one back for The Whalers, a draw would have flattered the side. In other matches: Cornellians' inability to close out the game against Handon North cost them dearly. Soessch, put in a top-class performance as they defeated NBB in New Belfast. And Port Patrick looked very comfortable, as they won 1-0 against La Gorlions.

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

Cornellians moved back to the top of the table with a 2-1 win over Port Patrick as the league reached its critical phase. After a cagey first half, with the sides going up the tunnel tied at 1-1, Pearce must have worked some of his magic. It was a much stronger Eagles side which emerged in the second half, looking much sharper, and ready to battle for the points. Port Patrick have a real gritty energy about them and are tough to break down, but they were powerless to prevent the visitors' winning goal. After making a blistering run down the left, Triffid Ramsey sent a stinging ball across the six yard line, which was directed in by Cosmin Dobrescu. With Lammerton drawing 1-1 with NBB, the Jedorian's goal could prove to be crucial in the title race. Things are now looking quite precarious at the bottom for Granton Vale, as despite going into the season promising so much, they find themselves in a dogfight to stay up. This weekend they faired no better, with Steven Rexmont's free kick enough to give Dundee all three points at Sea Park. The visitors, by contrast, are having an excellent season, and have a great chance now to finish in the top ten. For another small side harbouring hopes of a top-half finish, the train has probably now left the station, as Mucusia were beaten 2-0 by United. Handon United have had a dreadful season by their own high standards, but they still had enough about them to dispose of the Eusebians. One player, Christian Lovenkrads has really put himself in the spot light this season, with some fantastic performances on the right wing, and the club my have trouble holding on to him long term. The 20-year-old Semar was on the score sheet again today, latching onto a neat Alf Seggerson layoff to power home his side's second. With Marionville picking up a surprise win over Port Sebastian, The Warriors must have been sensing that third place was not out of the question, as they really took the match to Kings Park. In a dominant second half display, The Warriors scored three times, through Tomás Fierro, Ivan Archic, and Holly Addison to run out 4-2 winners. Finally, FC Soessch continued to finish the season strongly, with a 2-0 win over La Gorlions. Bergstadt's finest deserved their three points, in a match where Johan Shearer, and Sara Foucault were on the score sheet.

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

The pick of this week's matches was FC Soessch's visit to League leaders Cornellians. This was a one of the potential banana skins for the Champions, if they were going to defend their title, and they would have been well aware that a win here would mean that they had the option of the draw when they travelled to Lammerton in the title decider next week. The visitors were going to give it everything they had, as they knew that a good run-in from here could hand them a fifth place finish. As one could have predicted, it was a match with a lot to talk about with seven goals and not without its controversy. In the end The Eagles did what they needed to do, and took home all three points, with two late goals for Kel Koromin, and Casey Brind. The game was finely poise for most of the 90 minutes and it could have gone either way. That is why the Cenian's 84th minute winner would have meant so much to the side as they look to be the first side in seven years to retain the title. Lammerton also did what they needed to do, a 2-0 win over La Gorlions, meaning that if they can get the better of Cornellians next week, then the title could be theirs. There has been a feeling for a long time that the cracks have been starting to show in this Hornet's side, not at all used to being in this position at this point in the season. One of the massive differences between Lammerton and Cornellians is experience; and it seems now - at the sharp end of the season - to be telling. Despite their nerves there was no slip up this week with Merry Osbourne and Timo Düd scoring the goals which got them past a La Gorlions side that seem to be running out of steam. In other matches: Port Sebastian seem to be another side taking in water, as they lost yet again to Athletic by a single goal. New Belfast Warriors took advantage of their misfortune with a 1-0 win over Mucusia. And New Belfast Blues will hope that their 3-1 win over Kings Park is enough to keep them up.

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

It pretty much all came down to this match: Cornellians on 78 points, Lammerton on 76. The Hornets knew that with home advantage over last season's Champions many would be picking them out as title favourites. On the balance of play, over the entire season, this wouldn't even be an extreme statement. Given where Lammerton had gathered some of this team from, it would have been an incredible achievement for John Sedder, who will have done his CV no harm at all this year. Things got of the perfect start at the Lammerton City Ground, with Jasper Valaren slipping the ball through to John Cooper, to give the home side the lead. The entire stadium were in raptures, as the fans were beginning to sense their first SPL title in over thirty years. However, their celebrations were to be short lived, as the Eagles equalised minutes before the half time whistle. Alexander Pearce's side weren't going down without a fight, and they illustrated their star quality, when Tsumugi Narita's clever pass for Kel Koromin pulled them back level. As the match developed, it was Lammerton who were now chasing the result, and they went close on a number of occasions, most notable Merry Osbourne's header, which drifted narrowly over. Amidst the constant pressure, it was always inevitable that Cornellians would get their chance on the break, and they knew that one more goal would mean they could seal the title there and then. When the chance came, there would have been no surprises that it fell to captain Eloisa Purinton, and the Gloriaxian scored the goal, which saw her side crowned champions for the third time in four years. With most of the places now becoming settled, much of the attention shifted to Port Sebastian and The Warriors' battle for third spot. Considering that Porty seem to have lost their mojo of late, their 5-1 win over D'Itille will have been a pleasant surprise. Demba Traore (2), Conavacio, Joey Bia, and Emiline Millet all scored in a resounding win for the Handon side. In other matches, The Warriors edged the New Belfast Derby 1-0 thanks to a goal from Miki Kurugaya. Dundee found an excellent 3-2 win over Port Patrick, which moves them up the table. And Hollin's 2-1 win over Handon North is now enough to ensure their safety.

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

For most of the side, it was just pride left to play for, so we switch our attention to a fascinating battle at the bottom of the table, between two sides few of us predicted would be in trouble. Granton Vale went into the final fixture three points and four goals behind rivals New Belfast Blues, with both sides facing difficult away matches. For Granton Vale they had to pay a visit to Port Sebastian who were themselves locked in a fierce battle for third place with the Warriors. NBB on the other hand had to make the trip up the mountains to face La Gorlions. The Lions, in La Gorla, is widely regarded as one of the toughest matches on the calendar due to the high altitude, and The Blues struggled accordingly. Given what was at stake, the relegation threatened side couldn't so much as put up a fight, as they were played off the park by the dominant Lions midfield. The Blues simply had no one in their side who could go toe to toe with Jade Irwin, and the Nepharim girl almost played them off the park in a match which ended 3-0. Granton Vale by contrast, weren't going down without a fight, and actually produced some of the football we had expected from them at the start of the season as they took the game to Porty. At one point The Beachcombers opened up a 4-1 lead, a result which would have seen them to safety. But in a cruel twist, Port Sebastian who were playing for little other than pride, brought on Quebecois Loanee, Leonardo Conavacio, in what will likely be his last match for the club. The attacker produced some magic, scoring one and setting up one, as he helped Porty to level the scores at 4-4. In a dramatic finish to the game Jack Hobbs scored for Granton deep into stoppage time, but the curtain came down on four season in the top flight, as they were relegated on Goals-For, with hapless New Blefast Blues staying up. The result also meant that The Warriors secured third place with 6-4 win over Kings Park, in what is the side's best finish since they lifted the title five years ago. In other matches, both Lammerton and Champions elect Cornellians won their final fixtures, not that it had much of an affect on the outcome. FC Soessch won 3-0 at Dundee to finish 6th, a very respectable position for the club that has struggled so much recently. And Handon United secured fifth spot with a 2-0 win over relegated D'Itille.

Monthly Awards:

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cornellians            38   25   9   4   101   64  +37    84 Champions Cup; Cygnus Cup
 2 Lammerton              38   24   7   7    87   51  +36    79 Globe Cup
 3 New Belfast Warriors   38   21  10   7    70   48  +22    73 Globe Cup
 4 Port Sebastian         38   21   7  10    73   48  +25    70 Globe Cup
 5 Handon United          38   19   8  11    63   42  +21    65
 6 FC Soessch             38   17  12   9    54   39  +15    63
 7 Marionville            38   17  10  11    82   69  +13    61
 8 Dundee                 38   17   8  13    39   38   +1    59
 9 Kings Park             38   16   8  14    73   66   +7    56
10 Port Patrick United    38   15   7  16    62   63   −1    52
11 Port James Athletic    38   14  10  14    50   61  −11    52
12 La Gorlions            38   14   8  16    43   45   −2    50
13 Mucusia                38   12   9  17    39   50  −11    45
14 New Island             38   12   7  19    38   45   −7    43
15 Hollin                 38   10  10  18    43   53  −10    40
16 New Belfast Blues      38    8  14  16    51   64  −13    38
17 Granton Vale           38    9  11  18    50   64  −14    38 relegated
18 D'Itille               38    7  14  17    45   71  −26    35 relegated
19 Jena VB                38    8   7  23    45   82  −37    31 relegated
20 Handon North           38    0  12  26    28   73  −45    12 relegated

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

1st: John Cooper -- Lammerton

For a 29-year-old, who has never really been heralded as one of Schottia's outstanding talents, this award will come as a massive achievement. The player has done exactly what was asked of him, week in and week out, as he dug deep and came up with the goals. His partnership with Merry Osbourne in the attack has been so important to the side's title challenge. It has been remarkable to see a bit-part player with one Schottic cap to his name, team up with a former A-League reserve and take on the top internationalist of Conellians and Handon United.

2nd: Jade Irwin -- La Gorlions

The transformation in Jade Irwin is incredible. From the 20-year-old, severely lacking in confidence after being released from Crisisbless United - to a cultured young midfielder who takes every game in her stride. Many people will feel that first place should have been her's on merit, and there was perhaps a slight Schottic bias and sentimentality in handing the award to John Cooper. What is maybe most remarkable about Irwin is the fact that she plays for a small club not exactly renowned for its subtle passing football. In a side, surrounded by 185cm bruisers, Irwin is the one in the middle who keeps things flowing.

3rd: Jack Baxter -- Port Sebastian

Rolling back the clock, veteran Jack Baxter has been showing us all that he still has what it takes. Playing in the heart of the Port Sebastian midfield for more than a decade now, the team captain and former Schottia cap has had to weather some ups and downs this season. Baxter is a constant source of inspiration and leadership in the midfield, even when things haven’t been going right.

4th: Kel Koromin -- Cornellians

There must be a lot of pressure on a player, who is head and shoulders the biggest signing in the leagues history. The $20M transfer from Tir Snake Strike beat the previous record by some 13 million, as Cornellians set about building a team that could challenge in the UICA competitions. Despite this pressure Kormin equipped himself well, and showed just why so many clubs were chasing his signature. With 27 goals he was the league's joint top scorer, as he help steer Cornellians to the league title.

5th: Tomás Fierro -- New Belfast Warriors

The second Cenian on this list, after something of an influx in recent years. Fierro has been at the heart of The Warriors' revival, and what's more, his performances seem to be improving. The player moves the ball well, and is quick to track back when the side are on the back foot. Only time will tell how far the 21-year-old can go in the sport.

Long-list: Christian Lovenkrads (Handon United), Xander Cross (New Island), Tsumugi Narita (Cornellians), Cerys Kennicot (Port Patrick), Joey Bia (Port Sebastian) Triffid Ramsey (Cornellians)

Golden Boot (Top Scorer):

1st: 27 John Cooper -- Lammerton

| Kel Koromin -- Cornellians

3rd: 25 Eloisa Purinton -- Cornellians

4th: 23 Demba Traore -- Port Sebastian

5th: 22 Isaac Nketiah -- Handon United

| Merry Osbourne -- Lammerton

| Giancoma de Jerusalem -- Port Sebastian

| Ivan Archic -- Warriors

9th: 20 Francis Keelinan -- Kings Park

| Aimée Hétu -- Mucusia

| Isaac Nketiah -- Handon United

| Miki Kurugaya -- New Belfast Warriors

Young Player of The Year:
1st: Jade Irwin -- La Gorlions

See Player of the year Award.

2nd: Tomás Fierro -- New Belfast Warriors

See Player of the year Award.

3rd: Christian Lovenkrads -- Handon United

The lightning quick right-winger has been the main positive for Handon United fans in an otherwise poor season, which saw them miss out on the UICA spots. At only twenty years of age there is no doubt that Lovenkrands could go on to become a word-class player.

4th: Tsumugi Narita -- Cornellians

Tsumugi is a deep-sitting playmaker who, along with Eula Richard, forms the base of most of Cornellians' play. The Kirisakian is a very neat player, who can get forward and support the attack, as well as protecting the back four. With skill and technique in abundance, it is easy to see why she has become a firm fans' favourite.

5th: Mars Alexandersson -- Lammerton

Alexandersson is now firmly established as one of the best players in the league having been a major part of Lammerton's success over the last two year. The Western Sunrise Islander can be unplayable some days, combining an all-action style with great passing and invention.

Long-list: Isaac Nketiah (Handon United), Robard Horvat (Lammerton), Liam Goncalves (Dundee), Steven Rexmont (Dundee), Jasper Valaren (Lammerton)

Manger of The Year:
1st: John Sedder -- Lammerton

This award might have gone to Alexander Pearce for leading Cornellians to back-to-back titles, but instead they have gone for Lammerton boss John Sedder. With a fraction of The Eagles' budget, Lammerton pushed them to the end and very nearly snatched the title with two games to go.

2nd: Alexander Pearce -- Cornellians

Two titles in two years, three in four. It can't really get much better for the Cosumarite who has completely rewritten the balance of power in the SPL. The test for him will come in the Champions Cup however, where he will know he has to improve.

3rd: Jock Sonny -- Dundee

Working almost entirely with a bunch of homegrown youngsters. Dundee have gone from a side tipped for relegation to one that finished 8th in the league. Sonny seems like he can do nothing wrong at points, and this season will be yet another entry in his long list of achievements.

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

Marcel Smith-Hammond -- Lammerton

Signed from Döllar, $350K
The fact that John Sedder picked out the defender, who was relegated last season with FC Döllar, only further underlines his quality as a manager. Smith-Hammond has been solid as a rock at the back for The Hornets this season and very much deserves his runners-up medal.

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

GK == Harry Gould

DF == Esther Abner

- Stephen Gargo

- Marcel Smith-Hammond

- Triffid Ramsey

MF == Alfred Seggerson

Jade Irwin

- Mars Alexandersson

FW == John Cooper -- Lammerton

- Kel Koromin -- Cornellians

- Demba Traore

Schottic Cup -- Final

Mucusia 0–1 Cornellians
Goal: 33" Ramsey.

It was an eagerly anticipated final with one of the league's hottest up and coming sides going up against the double league champions, and it points it was hard to tell exactly which was which. Cornellians were on the back foot for most of the opening stages, as The Eusebians really took the game to their higher ranked opponents. Natalie Adams went close with a shot early on, which grazed the outside of the post; and Flora Klee drew a fine save from Jeremy McNott after 20 minutes. When Cornellians broke the deadlock it was very much against the run of play, with Triffid Ramsey running out of space at the end of a forward run and opting for a hit and hope. To the surprise of everyone in the stadium the shot flew into the top corner, and Ramsey ran off to celebrate, with the cheek to pretend she had meant it. Despite Mucusia's best efforts, there was no way back into the match for the side from Port James, and Cornellians went on to pull off the league-cup-double for the first time in their history.

Regional Divisions - Second Tier
In a bid to make football more sustainable in Schottia the second tier is split into four Regional Divisions. This was in an attempt to cut down travel time for fans and players, while giving a greater number of sides a chance at promotion. The champions of each league win promotion to the SPL, and the side finishing bottom is relegated to the Regional Conference. Other sides may be relegated too depending on which sides come down from the SPL, keeping the number of teams in each league at ten.

Division A - Greater Handon, Marionville, New Belfast, and New Scotland.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Kirk Preston                  35   20   6   9    61   46  +15    66 Pormoted
 2 Hillstreet                    35   19   8   8    63   45  +18    65
 3 Regional Development Side A   35   17  10   8    68   55  +13    61
 4 Marionville Thistle           35   14  11  10    52   43   +9    53
 5 Oxlaey Court                  35   15   8  12    46   41   +5    53
 6 Huntley Hunters               35   14   8  13    59   51   +8    50
 7 Adelly Road                   35   13   8  14    64   56   +8    47
 8 Abermerlock                   35   10   7  18    48   67  −19    37
 9 Dundee Rovers                 35    9   3  23    36   69  −33    30 Relegated
10 Lochmarlock                   35    7   5  23    45   69  −24    26 Relegated

Division B - Central South Schottia, Lammerton, Eastern Eusebia, Port James, and Belker.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Lammerton City                35   19   8   8    69   41  +28    65 Promoted
 2 Lammerton Eels                35   19   6  10    55   51   +4    63
 3 Port James                    35   18   6  11    56   41  +15    60
 4 Lammerton Wonderers           35   16  11   8    64   50  +14    59
 5 Regional Development Side B   35   16   6  13    59   50   +9    54
 6 Wallshill                     35   13  10  12    51   49   +2    49
 7 Oak Park Celtic               35   14   5  16    57   66   −9    47
 8 Herman Park                   35   12   8  15    42   44   −2    44
 9 Central Stars                 35    9  10  16    53   60   −7    37
10 Kristly                       35    2   4  29    28   82  −54    10 Relegated

Division C - The North Islands, La Gorla, and Bergstadt.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Stalker Bay                   36   20   7   9    63   43  +20    67 Promoted
 2 Allous VB                     36   19   7  10    71   53  +18    64
 3 Soessch 1990                  36   17   9  10    64   51  +13    60
 4 La Harve                      36   16  10  10    57   46  +11    58
 5 Regional Development Side C   36   13  13  10    50   40  +10    52
 6 FC Döllar                     36   13   9  14    60   63   −3    48
 7 Baumann VB                    36   11  10  15    56   62   −6    43
 8 Wolbeck                       36   10  11  15    50   55   −5    41
 9 Dantum                        36    9   6  21    43   68  −25    33 Relegated
10 Saint-Dos                     36    9   4  23    50   83  −33    31 Relegated

Division D - New Island

.                                Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Snubbeack Rock                 36   20   6  10    69   50  +19    66 Promoted
 2 New Town Thistle               36   17  10   9    62   44  +18    61
 3 Coldstream Farmers Union       36   18   6  12    44   42   +2    60
 4 Regional Development Side D    36   16  11   9    60   47  +13    59
 5 Berwick United                 36   11  15  10    56   47   +9    48
 6 Garvald                        36   10  15  11    53   50   +3    45
 7 Marasmont                      36   12   5  19    49   56   −7    41
 8 Bolton Green                   36   11   8  17    40   58  −18    41
 9 Arnahm                         36   10   9  17    51   64  −13    39
10 Stevenson Wonderers            36    7  11  18    53   79  −26    32 Relegated

Series B Champions' Cup Play-offs

Semi-finals-
Kirk Preston 1–1 Lammerton City (3–1 AET)
Snubbeack Rock 3–2 Stalker Bay

Third place play-off-
Lammerton City 3–2 Stalker Bay

Final-
Snubbeack Rock 0–0 Kirk Preston (0–0 AET) (4–5 pen.)

Kirk Preston, Snubbeack Rock, and Lammerton City Qualify for the Series B Champions' Cup

Youth Football - Junior Championship

.                                Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Regional Development Side D    30   19   8   3    65   31  +34    65 Champions
 2 Handon United                  30   18   8   4    61   30  +31    62
 3 Regional Development Side A    30   17   8   5    55   35  +20    59
 4 Port Sebastian                 30   18   4   8    75   42  +33    58
 5 Regional Development Side C    30   17   6   7    45   28  +17    57
 6 Dundee                         30   17   6   7    52   37  +15    57
 7 Regional Development Side B    30   17   4   9    55   36  +19    55
 8 Lammerton                      30   17   3  10    48   34  +14    54
 9 Handon Ladies                  30   13   9   8    59   41  +18    48
10 Cornellians                    30   11   9  10    49   37  +12    42
11 La Gorlions                    30    8   4  18    32   60  −28    28
12 Marionville                    30    7   5  18    25   51  −26    26
13 FC Soessch                     30    4   7  19    27   59  −32    19
14 New Belfast Warriors           30    4   5  21    32   74  −42    17
15 Kings Park                     30    3   5  22    27   70  −43    14
16 Port James Athletic            30    3   3  24    25   67  −42    12

by **Schottia** » Thu Jul 14, 2016 7:48 am

Schottic Premier League

2022-23

Preview
-Part One-

Playing squads for the upcoming season, with provisional starting eleven, and notable reserves. Teams listed in no particular order.

The side form Lochend really seem to be getting into the swing now, since moving over from the MPL. A pretty solid squad of players, and a talented young manager who seems able to do no wrong, it would be silly to bet against them again this season. After some excruciating near misses, they will be hoping to make an impact in the UICA competitions too this year, after just failing to make the Globe Cup group phase last time round. After adding La Gorlions' talented Nepharim midfielder Jade Irwin, and Cosumarite internationalist Kit Kvanderwyk the Eagles will now fee they have a team, which can begin to challenge internationally.

Prediction: 1st. They finished very strong last season, and with the improvements they have made, it is likely to be a similar story.

Star player: Kel Koromin | Rising Star: Tsumugi Narita

International Competition: Champions' Cup

Handon United had to endure a frustrating season last time round. Despite putting in some strong performances, nothing seemed to click for the capital side. Even with their fantastic playing squad, and some very talented young players coming through the ranks, Carl Sorensen’s side just missed out on UICA football. With the pace of Bernman, Lovenkrands, and Satō, United are a tricky team to play against, and their fans will be hoping for better than 5th place.

Prediction: 4th. United seemed to have slipped back a little, but we still see them doing better than last time.

Star Player: Alfred Seggerson | Rising Star: Christian Lovenkrands

Closing out the season seems to be a huge stumbling block for Porty, as the final third always proves to be their undoing. They will have to cope also with the retirement of club captain Jack Baxter, who has been a stalwart in the team for almost twenty years. While they will face difficulties, players like Joey Bia, Demba Traore, and Emiline Millet should be enough to see them in with a shout.

Prediction: 3th. Notoriously hard to call, but they are one of the sides with a chance of stopping Cornellians.

Star Player: Joey Bia | Rising Star: Andrya Novkovic

International Competition: Globe Cup

Came within spitting distance of creating a huge shock last season as they nearly lifted the title, it is true to say that the Hornets are going through something of a golden period. There are no superstars in this side, just eleven round pegs in round holes, who all play for one another. The additions of Luke Svensson, and the highly rated Keeper Jim Black, should ensure they finish near the top once again.

Prediction: 2nd. Probably time we stopped expecting them to slip-up.

Star player: Mars Alexandersson | Rising Star: Jasper Valaren

International Competition: Globe Cup

Last season saw the Warriors end a frustrating period of decline, with a third place finish, securing UICA football. Manager Graeme Collins seems to have got the ship back afloat, largely thinks to the stand out performances of Cenian Tomás Fierro in midfield. The New Belfast side looked a match for most of the sides at the top of the table, and they are in with a shout again this year.

Prediction: 5th. They will be in the scrap for the final two Globe Cup spots.

Star Player: Ivan Archic | Rising Star: Tomás Fierro

International Competition: Globe Cup

We saw much needed improvements from FC Soessch last season, as they finished in a respectable league place. Their fans will be looking for more however, and the pressure will be on Christopheran manager Gary Stoot to produce results.

Prediction: 9th. Similar to last season.

Star Player: Johan Shearer | Rising Star: Sara Foucault

It is going to be a tall order to replace Estelle Conway, who has been a stand out player for the club over the last two years, but there is no doubt that the Royals still have a good squad. With players such as Sendoa, and Erin Braden in the centre of midfield and Francis Keelinan up front they will be aiming for a top six finish.

Prediction: 8th. Definitely top ten, but the UICA spots might be just out of reach.

Star player: Erin Braden | Rising star: Yuiko Kasugano

After only narrowly holding onto his job, Pascal Voitle will be desperate to ensure that the Lions see a turn around in fortunes. In terms of budgets things have always been a problem for the North Island club, but grit and resolve have normally seen them overcome this. The sale of Jade Irwin will be a blow, but her replacement Yelena Shostakovich could really be one to watch.

Prediction: 10th. Top half, and the side will be desperate to get back to winning ways.

Star player: Marcus Pfab | Rising star: Juan Velente

Some will feel that Marionville have seen their chance to break into the top four come and go. While they certainly have one of the better sides in the league, breaking into the top four has always seemed like an impossibility for the Old Boys.

Prediction: 7th. Probably similar to last year, just outside the top four.

Star Player: Barry Stewart | Rising Star: Vojnomir Nikolic

The Port Patrick side, which won promotion, then surprised us all by going on to finish sixth is now all but gone. With Cerys Kenicott leaving to join Centralis Heart, the team have been left a little thin on the ground. That said, the Breakers have a lot of fight about them, and a top half finish is not out of the question.

Prediction: 11th. This is probably going to be a season of tough adjustments.

Star Player: Davy Keates | Rising star: Connie Malone

Athletic have been a bit a mixed bag of late, with some very good performances mixed in with some pretty dire ones. The side from Port James have been in relative decline for the last five seasons, and where before they were always fighting to scrape into the top four, it is now the top ten they are looking at.

Prediction: 12th. The side have improved, but they are likely to finish similarly to last season.

Star Player: Joseph Preca | Rising Star: Palle Ellsmere

Protected from relegation by a magic talisman - or so it would seem - NBB constantly bounce around the bottom half of the table without doing much. They have a couple of decent players, particularly in attack, but the loss of keeper Jim Black will be a blow.

Prediction: 17th. This could be another very tough season for the Blues.

Star player: David Millar | Rising star: Aleksander Heino-Watanabe

We will have to see what Snbbeak Rock are capable of in the top tier. One would imagine, that like so many New Island sides, this will be a bridge too far for the small club. Chris Abaroa, on loan from the Willox Street Pirates should be able to provide some firepower up front, but will it be enough to guide them to safety?

Prediction: 19th. A toss-up for the wooden spoon.

Star Player: David Gideon | Rising Star: Chris Abaroa

Something of a surprise to see Ross Killanen's side up in the SPL for the first time in 30 years. Kirk Preston did well to win promotion last season, but this is going to be a whole different kettle of fish. Some of their new signings are going to really need to hit the ground running.

Prediction: 20th. Few pundits out there will be predicting anything other than the wooden spoon for this side, who will really need to dig deep.

Star Player: Phillip Gespenst | Rising Star: Flasymar

A side who are never totally out of the woods, but passion and graft normally sees them to safety. The last two seasons have seen them slip a little down the league, so they will be out to improve their position.

Prediction: 13th. Will finish clear of the bottom four.

Star player: Chris Jack | Rising Star: Neil Brown

Mucusia had a great first season in the SPL, playing some attractive football with a talented bunch of young players. A solid finish, well clear of the relegation zone, means they are now looking forward to another season in the top tier. The Port James side's sporting ethos and attitude to the game has helped attract much support to their cause.

Prediction: 14th. Mid table, but could be higher.

Star player: Poppy Fayrkirk | Rising star: Natalie "Envy" Adams

Dundee really managed to ruffle a few feathers last season by finishing 8th, far higher than projected. This season it is going to be a tall order to repeat this feat, with sides now gunning for them. Jock Sonny's side have a lot of pace, and play with a directness which can be hard to match.

Prediction: 6th. Player for player, we don't see anything other than a good season for the South Schottic club.

Star Player: Liam Goncalves | Rising star: Steven Rexmont

A long awaited return to the SPL for the North Island Club, Stalker Bay know they will need to slog it out if they want to stay up. They are not a team blessed with star talent, so it is going to be down to hard work, and wild tackling.

Star Player: Ian Todd | Rising Star: Ben Crendoa

Prediction: 18th. Only a miracle will stop them going down.

New Island have, by avoiding relegation, ensured that there are two New Island sides in the SPL for the first time in many years. After their hard work it is going to be another slog this time round, but they probably have enough about them, with the likes of Nikita Clohessy and Xander Cross, to stay up.

Prediction: 16th. Just outside the relegation zone.

Star player: Nikita Clohessy | Rising star: Wendy Gehnt

Lammerton City will have been relieved to have bounced back so quickly following their relegation, and now the hard work begins. It was always going to be difficult to strengthen the side with their budget, but there are a few handy players in the starting line up.

Prediction: 15th. Should re-establish themselves as a top tier side.

Star player: Thomas Carmichael | Rising star: Ikas Nike

by **Schottia** » Thu Jul 14, 2016 7:53 am

First half of the season
As the SPL reached its half way stage, it looked as if four way split had started to develop at the top. Cornellians, leading the pack with a commanding goal difference would have surprised very few with their strong start to the season, but there wouldn't have been many people predicting Soessch, Port Patrick, and Dundee would have gone with them. Cornellians largely had strikers Kel Koromin and Kathryn Kvanderwyk to thank for the goals, although it was a strong all-round performance in general. Anyone doubting that Jade Irwin could make the step up would sorely mistaken, as the Nepharim midfielder looked on top form alongside Kirisakian, Tsumugi in the centre. When adding players such as Triffid Ramsey, and new signing Kit Kvanderwyk to the equation, it was easy to see why the Eagles were enjoying a strong season in the UICA as well. For FC Soessch it was as if the clock had been turned back, as their players who seemed to have struggled so much over the last three seasons, looked in great shape. Konstantin Holstad, arguably the player of the season at this point, was back on top form, as were Sara Foucault and Johan Shearer. Port Patrick United were a side we all expected to struggle this year, following the sale of Cerys Kennicot, but this could not have been further from the truth. Evergreen striker Paul Coine showed that he should perhaps have still been in the Schottia squad, with a good goal-scoring return in the first nineteen matches to help his side to second. Dundee on the other hand were a side we were expecting to do well - but not this well. Young Steven Rexmont and Liam Goncalves were of course in the thick of it, but also 21-year-old David Hughes, signed two years ago from Handon United, looked on fine form.

Already looking cut adrift if fifth place were Lammerton, as the Hornets failed to live up to their billing. But it was even more worrying for the trio of Handon United, Port Sebastian, and The Warriors all struggling down in the mid-table. For any one of these teams, failure to make the top four would be a disaster, so there would definitely be one of two worried faces in the dressing rooms.

Down at the bottom of the table, Snubbeak Rock seemed to have been cut adrift, but other than that it was too close to call. Kirk Preston had done just enough to keep themselves in 16th place, however, with only goal difference separating them from Hollin, there was still a long way to go. Lammerton City, on the other hand, appeared to be doing just enough to stay clear of the drop zone, with a haul of 22 points from their first nineteen games.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cornellians            19   11   5   3    42   17  +25    38
 2 FC Soessch             19   11   5   3    28   12  +16    38
 3 Port Patrick United    19   11   5   3    27   13  +14    38
 4 Dundee                 19   11   5   3    16   13   +3    38
 5 Lammerton              19   10   3   6    28   23   +5    33
 6 Mucusia                19    9   5   5    21   19   +2    32
 7 Port Sebastian         19    9   4   6    27   18   +9    31
 8 New Belfast Warriors   19    8   6   5    28   16  +12    30
 9 Handon United          19    8   5   6    31   24   +7    29
10 Port James Athletic    19    8   5   6    20   16   +4    29
11 La Gorlions            19    8   5   6    24   21   +3    29
12 Marionville            19    7   4   8    19   17   +2    25
13 Lammerton City         19    4  10   5    14   14    0    22
14 Kings Park             19    6   4   9    20   29   −9    22
15 New Belfast Blues      19    5   4  10    12   23  −11    19
16 Kirk Preston United    19    4   6   9    22   24   −2    18
17 Hollin                 19    5   3  11    18   34  −16    18
18 New Island             19    4   4  11    12   21   −9    16
19 Stalker Bay            19    3   2  14     6   34  −28    11
20 Snubbeack Rock         19    2   2  15    13   40  −27     8

How things finished
Considering that they finished with a goal difference of +46, Cornellians might have hopped for a much stronger end to the season. However you cannot argue with your third championship in three years, and in holding of a late surge from Lammerton, the Eagles thoroughly deserve it. Cenian striker Kel Koromin, along side the Kvanderwyk siblings were a devastating combination in attack, and when added to the impact made by the likes of Jade Irwin, Eula Richard, and teen midfielder Tsumugi, it was simply too much for the opposition. Over the course of the season they were head and shoulders above the rest in terms of on-field performances, even if a couple of bad results meant that they only finished a point clear of Lammerton and Dundee.

Considering they looked out of it at the half way point, Lammerton proved to us all that they are now a force to be reckoned with. Once again the goals of Brenecian Merry Osbourne, and Schottic striker John Cooper got them over the line, with help from young midfield trio of Jasper Valaren, Mars Alexandersson, and Robard Horvat. After another disappointing year in the UICA however, the Hornets will go into next season with a big point to prove. This season's big talking point was the performance of Dundee, who have come out of nowhere to look like real title challengers. Whatever Jock Sonny has done, it is working, as the young side kept the momentum going for their highest finish in 57 years. Many of their young stars we mentioned at the half way point, but it also worth giving credit to captain James Berkeley, as the 30-year-old Darvale rightback really added some steel to the side. We also need to remember, had Dundee beaten Handon United in the final game of the season, then they would have actually been crowned champions. The fourth UICA spot was claimed by FC Soessch, who return to international domestic football for the first time in four seasons. The side from the North Island put in a strong performance from the start of the season, and a good team showing meant they thoroughly deserve this result.

In the middle of the table, Handon United, and Port Sebastian may all be looking for new managers, after slumping to 6th and 7th place respectively? While Warriors boss Collins is unlikely to be under the same pressure, his side also slipped backwards. All three sides will now have the problem of trying to hold on to their best players without the prospect of international club football.

At the other end of the table there were few surprises with Stalker Bay, Snubbeak Rock, NBB, and Kirk Preston all going down. While NBB have been in the SPL for a long time, they have been hanging on for dear life for many years, and finally take the plunge. And although Kirk Preston went down, they will be reasonably pleased with a haul of 31 points, far more than many would have expected.

.                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cornellians            38   23   7   8    82   36  +46    76 Champions' Cup
 2 Lammerton              38   23   6   9    59   40  +19    75 Globe Cup
 3 Dundee                 38   21  12   5    43   24  +19    75 Globe Cup
 4 FC Soessch             38   20  13   5    59   29  +30    73 Globe Cup 
 5 New Belfast Warriors   38   19  10   9    49   27  +22    67
 6 Handon United          38   18  12   8    71   38  +33    66
 7 Port Sebastian         38   19   8  11    58   37  +21    65
 8 Port Patrick United    38   18  11   9    49   40   +9    65
 9 Marionville            38   15  10  13    44   38   +6    55
10 La Gorlions            38   14  12  12    52   46   +6    54 Cygnus Cup
11 Kings Park             38   13   9  16    50   54   −4    48
12 Mucusia                38   12  12  14    37   43   −6    48
13 Port James Athletic    38   12  11  15    39   45   −6    47
14 Lammerton City         38    9  16  13    36   43   −7    43
15 New Island             38   11   7  20    33   46  −13    40
16 Hollin                 38    9   9  20    37   59  −22    36
17 Kirk Preston United    38    8   7  23    38   67  −29    31 Relegated
18 New Belfast Blues      38    7  10  21    22   51  −29    31 Relegated
19 Snubbeack Rock         38    6   9  23    28   66  −38    27 Relegated
20 Stalker Bay            38    5   5  28    15   72  −57    20 Relegated

Awards

Player of The Year
1st: Kel Koromin, Cornellians
2nd: Steven Rexmont, Dundee
3rd: Konstantin Holstad, FC Soessch
4th: Jade Irwin, Cornellians
5th: Merry Osbourne, Lammerton

Golden Boot:
31: Kel Koromin, Cornellians
26: Merry Osbourne, Lammerton
24: Serge Mavididi, Handon United
21: Steven Rexmont, Dundee
21: Sara Foucault, FC Soessch

Young Player of The Year:
1st: Steven Rexmont, Dundee
2nd: Jasper Valaren, Lammerton
3rd: Kathryn Kvanderwyk, Cornellians
4th: Tsumugi Narita, Cornellians
5th: Christian Lovenkrands, Handon United

Manger of The Year:
1st: Jock Sonny, Dundee
2nd: Alexander Pearce, Cornellians
3rd: Gary Stoot, FC Soessch
4th: John Sedder, Lammerton
5th: Graeme Collins, Warriors

Team of The Season:

Harry Gould
Ryan Stoner -- Triffid Ramsey -- Scott Burton --Bueno-Wells
Jade Irwin -- Steven Rexmont -- Jasper Valaren
Kel Koromin -- Merry Osbourne -- Serge Mavididi

Schottic Cup -- Ro32
Marionville 2–4 FC Döllar
Lammerton Eels 0–1 Dundee
Regional Development Side D 0–2 New Belfast Warriors
New Belfast Blues 0–1 Kirk Preston United
Handon United 2–1 Kings Park
Stalker Bay 1–1 Port Patrick United (2-1 AET)
Granton Vale 1–1 Port James Athletic (3-2 AET)
Port Sebastian 1–0 New Island
La Gorlions 1–0 Hillstreet
Marionville Thistle 3–4 Regional Development Side B
D'Itille 0–1 Lammerton City
Cornellians 0–0 FC Soessch (1-0 AET)
Regional Development Side A 2–1 Hollin
Lammerton 1–2 Mucusia
Jenna VB 1–0 Snubbeack Rock
Regional Development Side C 1–0 Handon North

Schottic Cup -- Ro16
Regional Development Side C 0–4 Cornellians
Stalker Bay 1–2 FC Döllar
Granton Vale 1–3 Mucusia
Jenna VB 0–1 Dundee
Regional Development Side B 0–0 New Belfast Warriors (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Lammerton City 0–0 Kirk Preston United (0–0 AET) (4–3 pen.)
La Gorlions 0–0 Regional Development Side A (1–0 AET)
Handon United 0–2 Port Sebastian

Schottic Cup -- QF
Cornellians 2–0 FC Döllar
Mucusia 2–1 Dundee
Regional Development Side B 0–1 Lammerton City
La Gorlions 2–1 Port Sebastian

Schottic Cup -- SF
Cornellians 1-2 Mucusia
Lammerton City 1-2 La Gorlions

Schottic Cup -- Final
Lammerton City 2-4 La Gorlions

There was a somewhat surprise look about the Schottic Cup final, with two of the league's less glamorous sides slogging it out. Despite the low standing of both teams we were still treated to a fascinating match at the national stadium. Mucusia took the lead early on through Envy Adams, only to see the Sunrise Islander's strike cancelled out by goals from Jago Avelione and Gaston Avelione just before half time. Mucusia pulled level on the hour mark through Gavin Richardson, but late goals from Yelena Shostakovich and Mako Sekine sealed a rare cup win for the Lions.

Regional Divisions - Second Tier
In a bid to make football more sustainable in Schottia the second tier is split into four Regional Divisions. This was in an attempt to cut down travel time for fans and players, while giving a greater number of sides a chance at promotion. The champions of each league win promotion to the SPL, and the side finishing bottom is relegated to the Regional Conference. Other sides may be relegated too depending on which sides come down from the SPL, keeping the number of teams in each league at ten.

Division A - Greater Handon, Marionville, New Belfast, and New Scotland.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Granton Vale                  35   19   9   7    46   30  +16    66 Promoted
 2 Regional Development Side A   35   17  10   8    45   36   +9    61
 3 Hillstreet                    35   17   9   9    38   24  +14    60
 4 Oxlaey Court                  35   13  14   8    37   31   +6    53
 5 West Holbrookdale             35   12   9  14    44   45   −1    45
 6 Adelly Road                   35   12   7  16    31   35   −4    43
 7 Handon North                  35   12   6  17    39   47   −8    42
 8 Marrionville Thistle          35   10   9  16    29   34   −5    39
 9 Abermerlock                   35    9  11  15    36   46  −10    38 Relegated
10 Huntley Hunters               35    6  12  17    26   43  −17    30 Relegated

Division B - Central South Schottia, Lammerton, Eastern Eusebia, Port James, and Belker.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Oak Park Celtic               36   17  13   6    52   33  +19    64 Promoted
 2 Port James                    36   16  10  10    53   34  +19    58
 3 Lammerton Wonderers           36   15  13   8    51   36  +15    58
 4 Gateney                       36   14  13   9    41   35   +6    55
 5 Lammerton Eels                36   14  11  11    36   31   +5    53
 6 Herman Park                   36   13  13  10    51   34  +17    52
 7 Regional Development Side B   36   13  11  12    41   36   +5    50
 8 Wallshill                     36   11  11  14    22   34  −12    44
 9 Central Stars                 36    6  15  15    31   43  −12    33
10 Belker Crest                  36    3   6  27    18   80  −62    15 Relegated

Division C - The North Islands, La Gorla, and Bergstadt.

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 D'Itille                      36   19   9   8    51   33  +18    66 Promoted
 2 Soessch 1990                  36   18   7  11    39   33   +6    61
 3 Wolbeck                       36   17   9  10    46   29  +17    60
 4 FC Döllar                     36   14   9  13    42   35   +7    51
 5 La Harve                      36   13  10  13    37   43   −6    49
 6 Baumann VB                    36   13   9  14    38   38    0    48
 7 Regional Development Side C   36   12  10  14    37   43   −6    46
 8 Allous VB                     36   12   8  16    46   47   −1    44
 9 Sand                          36   11   5  20    33   53  −20    38
10 Jena VB                       36    9   8  19    31   46  −15    35 Relegated

Division D - New Island

.                               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Berwick United                36   20   7   9    42   25  +17    67 Promoted
 2 Bolton Green                  36   17   9  10    35   35    0    60
 3 Coldstream Farmers Union      36   15  14   7    40   25  +15    59
 4 Regional Development Side D   36   16   8  12    39   26  +13    56
 5 Port Newtown                  36   16   8  12    40   33   +7    56
 6 Marasmont                     36   16   5  15    30   35   −5    53
 7 Garvald                       36   14   6  16    43   37   +6    48
 8 Davison Main                  36   12  10  14    39   40   −1    46
 9 New Town Thistle              36   11  10  15    36   37   −1    43
10 Arnahm                        36    4   1  31    15   66  −51    13 Relegated

Series B Champions' Cup Play-offs

Semi-finals-
Granton Vale 4–0 Oak Park Celtic
Berwick United 1–3 D'Itille

Third place play-off-
Oak Park Celtic 3–2 Berwick United

Final-
Granton Vale 1–0 D'Itille

Granton Vale, Berwick United, and D'Itille Qualify for the Series B Champions' Cup

by **Schottia** » Tue Jul 26, 2016 2:45 am

2023-24

Preview
-Part One-

Playing squads for the upcoming season, with provisional starting eleven, and notable reserves. Teams listed in no particular order.

Last season saw the Eagles claim a third consecutive SPL title, but it will also go down as the year Alexander Pearce's side finally cracked the UICA. A run to the last sixteen of the Globe Cup, along with quarterfinal appearance in the Cup Winners' Cup, has seen as a turning point for the club who have had to learn to adjust to life after the MPL. For some of the big name stars of this side, it will have come not a moment too soon; but for many of the players of far humbler stock, this achievement was the product of a lot of hard work. Cenian super-star Kel Koromin comes into this season on the back of fantastic campaign which saw him crowned player of the year, picking up the golden boot in the process. The club's record signing seems to have struck up a promising partnership with hardworking Cosumarite youngster Kathryn Kvanderwyk, and together they will hope they can combine to good effect, once again, in the attack. In the midfield, Cornellians remain unchanged from last season, with a four of Jade Irwin, Tsumugi Narita, Eula Richard, and Kathryn's elder brother Kit. 23-year-old Irwin has turned the disappointment of being released by Crisisbless United into a positive. After resurrecting her fledgling career at La Gorlions, she has added a physical side to her game, and this is a lot of the reason why the Nepharim lass was so effective in the big matches last season. Accompanying her in the centre is the industrious Kirisakian, Tsumugi. The 20-year-old, who has already been at the club for six years, was recently handed her first full international cap. Hard working, and another excellent passer, she and Irwin ensure there is little waste in the centre of the park. Mesillan midfielder Richard is now back in her preferred position on the left, where she can use her pace to get in behind the enemy lines. Eula Richard is a player who has really grown with the club in the eight years she has been with them, becoming a fans favourite in her adopted nation, after her homeland disappeared off the sporting radar. Completing the quartet is $10 million former DBC winner Kit Kvanderwyk, a man whom the manager can rely on as a source of both goals and assists. His arrival last season forced a change in formation, to more of a conventional 4-4-2, with the Cosumarite helping bring more of a balance to the team. The back-four is also unchanged from last season, Stephen Gargo, and new captain Scott Burton in the centre, and explosive wingbacks Rachel Mercurier, and Triffid Ramsey marshalling the flanks. Mercurier, a refugee of the Apoxian Academy of Excellence, was brought in by Pearce after thing went sour back home, and subsequently completed her development at Lochend. The tricky right-back has since proven a valuable asset, replacing Adiran veteran Santiago Lowe. On the opposite flank is Nepharim born defender Ramsey (yes she is the daughter of the Cosumar manager), who adds some balance to the side with her surging runs up the park. Signed for a smidge over half a million from Augustineopel Saints, the 27-year-old has now developed into a top class player, as we saw in the Globe Cup last season. The central pairing is tried and tested, with Schottic international Burton solid as ever, alongside Gargo, who is really coming of age.

Prediction: 1st. Undoubtedly they will go into the season as favourites, and they will be chasing a record breaking four in a row. There will be stiff competition out there, but few will bet against them.

Star player: Kel Koromin | Rising Star: Tsumugi Narita

International Competition: Champions' Cup

Looking at the players they have at their disposal it is hard to see why Handon United have struggled so much over the last three seasons to mount a serious title challenge. Semarlandic manager Carl Sorensen came under a fair bit of pressure towards the end of the last campaign, with fans protesting outside the stadium. The board stood behind their man however, and after what must have been a lot of deliberation, the former Jansberg boss has received a stay of execution. In attack, Sorensen lines up with two of his countrymen Serge Mavididi, and Isaac Nketiah who have both been capped for their country. The pair of them have played together for a long time, and have a potent synergy in the forward line. In the midfield it has been another young Semar, however, who has captured the headlines with his performances over the last couple of seasons. Christian Lovenkarnds, who can play either right or centre, has pace to burn and has had left-backs running scared up and down the country. On the opposite wing Schottian DCB cap Aya Berman is of a similar mould, if not a little less effective. Together these young wide players are a real asset to the club. In the centre, stalwart creative-midfielder Alfred Seggerson is a massive player for United. With over fifty caps for Schottia, the Kloith born player has been at the club his entire career, and is a big fans' favourite. Who plays along side him is still up for debate, with the manager no doubt aware that he needs to shake things up. Devon Carranza-Jones is the obvious choice, but with things falling flat last season, will he be tempted to go with someone like young Baffour Asante or Surnrisian prospect Mirka Shitakuari? Defensively United should have little trouble, with Cenian keeper Jacrian Ryaden a safe pair of hand behind the likes of Tameka Ninetyseventh and Nathaniel Bueno-Wells. While they have no shortage of good replacements, part of United's problem is likely to be the fact that they have seen veteran stars such as Colin Donaldson, Robert Pzech, and Lucas D'Arby all head for the exit door. The task for these players will now be to step up to the plate.

Prediction: 4th. So hard to predict. This season will tell us a lot about what sort of a side they are, and reveal Sorensen's fate.

Star Player: Alfred Seggerson | Rising Star: Christian Lovenkrands

Port Sebastian are really going for it this year. They have a new man in charge, and finally the "selling club" have loosened the purse strings in a long overdue reinvestment in the playing squad. After the team parted company with Conner Watts, they moved quickly to bring in veteran boss Jock Sonny, whose achievements need no introduction. His latest triumph has been in guiding lowly Dundee to second in the league, winning him a move back to the big time after his reign at the Warriors went sour. Porty have backed him with transfer money and allowed him to bring in his own players, such as Steven Rexmont, and Vera Cummings from Dundee. He has also been reunited with former player Eloisa Purinton, whom he first brought to Cornellians seven years ago; and young Quebecois talent Joon Ho Hwang completes the new line-up. The Gloriaxian skipper, Purinton, will now look to recapture some of her form while leading the forward line following something of a slump. After talk of transfers, and the Gloriaxian national side reforming fell through two seasons back, the player has definitely been off the boil, so she will be eager to change that. There is no shortage of firepower alongside her, with the potent Semar striker Demba Traore, and experienced the Giancoma de Jerusalem both available. In the midfield we are liable to see a couple of changes from last season, with Cummings and Rexmont unlikely to be here just to make up numbers. We've seen Chiyoko Sakuraka move on, with Rexmont her likely direct replacement. It is also expected that Darvale man Louis Porter will drop to the bench with Cummings slotting in as a partner to Ko-oren international Emiline Millet. On the right, predictably will be Schottia winger Joey Bia, who will be back for an eighth consecutive season for the club. New recruit Hwang, will slot into a pretty settled back four, alongside Paul Doig, Sloane Kirkland, and poster-girl Esther Abner. If Jock Sonny's side hit the ground running there could be trouble for the rest of the field. It will also be an interesting battle, if we get a head-to-head race between Port Sebastian, and Cornellians - the side Sonny led to second in the MPL.

Prediction: 2nd. They've spent money, and done so wisely. Should present a real threat to Cornellians.

Star Player: Joey Bia | Rising Star: Steven Rexmont

After consecutive runners-up places the Hornets are back, unchanged, and desperate to go one better. John Sedder's side don't exactly have money to burn, but what they do have, they have spent well, bringing in a good balance of individuals, all with a point to prove. The best news for Lammerton is that their star players are all still improving. Midfield trio of Horvat, Alexandersson, and Valaren are 22, 21, and 20 respectively and already key players for their side. When you through in the experience of Timo Düd in defensive midfield, and John Cooper and Merry Osbourne in attack, then you can see why the side are so effective. Breniacain, Osbourne, turned back the clock last season with an excellent attacking display, and the fans will be hopping for more of the same alongside club captain and Schottia cap Cooper. The beating heart of this side, however, are Mars Alexandersson and Jasper Valaren. Both clever passers of the ball and lethal in attack, on a good day they are arguably number one and two in terms of playmakers in the SPL. Sitting just behind them, it is normally left to Robard Horvat, and Timo Düd to handle the less glamorous side of things, but that is something they both do very will. Lammerton's strongest department was never their defence, but after the acquisitions of Marcel Smith-Hammond and keeper Jim Black, they have now really tightened up. Black, signed from New Belfast Blues two years ago, has represented Schottia at the Olympics, and has been tipped to succeed Lucus D'Araby in the senior side. It's hard to see how things could get much better for Lammerton, given their transformation over the last five or six years. They are currently enjoying their best run of form since the 1970s and you would imagine it is now or never if they are going to upset the odds and bring home the title.

Prediction: 3rd. We are predicting third, it what will hopefully be a fascinating four/five horse race for the title.

Star player: Mars Alexandersson | Rising Star: Jasper Valaren

International Competition: Globe Cup

It's been a much talked about unknown, exactly how would New Belfast Warriors cope with the loss of their captain and record scorer Ivan Archic when the time finally came - and new we are about to find out. All eyes will now be on Kirisakian Miki Kurugaya, who is expected to step up to the plate as the Nekylturnyn's long term replacement. The Whalers finished fifth last season, and will be looking for at least the same again to get them back into UICA football. This isn't the same Warriors side, which won the title in 2018, but they have a good manager in the form of Graeme Collins, and the undoubtedly still pack a punch. Star man for the Greater Handon side is young Cenian international Tomás Fierro, a player who has shown us real glimpses of quality over the last three seasons at the club. The 23-year-old plays alongside Arcadia born Schottia midfielder Holly Addison and the pair have been reliable in the centre of the park. When you add wingers Craig O'Maramy, and Quebecois Project +90 graduate Adrienne O'Callahan to the equation then you have a side who are an outside bet for the title. The Warriors could possible be a little stronger at the back, but with the recent additions of Schottic U21 star Saskia Holden, and Guayabalense keeper Nerio Teran, they might just have enough in reserve to keep the top teams out. The Warriors have been through a few ups and downs, but successive third and fifth place finishes under their new boss show that they are getting their act back together. It seems that they may have finally found the key to consistency, and that is to not keep selling their best midfielders.

Prediction: 6th. It's getting harder and harder to call, as there seems to be something of a crunch, with up to eight side's all capable of making the fifth UICA spot.

Star Player: Tomás Fierro | Rising Star: Miki Kurugaya

Soessch must feel like they have turned a corner, although we have been here before in recent years. The side from Bergstadt started off the UICA era of Schottic football strongly; with a third place finish six years ago. However, prematurely sacking their manager after one bad season seemed to open the floodgates for them, condemning Die Rote Teufel to years in the wilderness. Hard work, and self-belief have been key to their climb back up the table, and last season's fourth will have given the fans a massive sense of relief. This was of course only half the battle and where the team go from hear is the crucial part - but to his credit, the manager has looked to build on that success. The accusation of Schottia internationalist and former DBC captain Ben Ross is a marquee signing for Soessch and the 27-year-old will be desperately needed to prop up an aging defence. Similarly young Naomi Blair at left back will hopefully add an injection of pace to the side. Apparently Cornellians' Eula Richard was pivotal in bringing the 21-year-old Mesillan to Gannon Park. Finally, Quebecois striker Viktor Lang completes the trio of signings, joining up from Project +90. When added to the existing bunch, Soessch look in pretty good shape as they seek to add to last year's success. Former Mucusia striker Sara Foucault had a good season last time round, and will be hopping to add to the haul of 21 goals she chipped in. A crucial element for Soessch will be how well Polar Islander Konstantin Holstad plays in the centre of the park. We saw last season just how effective he can be when he is at his best, and the side will desperately need more of the same. Another important player is likely to be Johan Shearer, as the Nepharim winger's contribution proved vital in terms of assists. Slipping backwards is going to be tough to take for Soessch, should it happen, but it may prove that there is little they can do with the field so evenly matched.

Prediction: 5th. FC Soessch will be the ones to pick up the final Glob Cup spot.

Star Player: Johan Shearer | Rising Star: Viktor Lang
International Competition: Globe Cup

Kings Park will be desperate to recover from an awful season, which saw them finish in an eight year low of 11th place. Kings Park have always been a side who have experienced ups and downs, but this result would have been seen as a major setback. The Royals have brought in Shalumite rightback Thomas Carmichael from SPL rivals Lammerton City, who should help to strengthen the ailing defence. Other than that, it is a young and otherwise unchanged side which will hope to give them their return to Globe Cup football for the first time in six years. Kings Park have never had many problems going forward, and with an attack consisting of Kaija Koppel and Francis Keelinan, they are always sure of a few goals. Set-piece specialist Keelinan is a former U23s captain, and ex Porty girl Koppel has represented Schottia in the DBC, and Vormsi at full international level. In support they have other forward options, with Darren O'Brian, Sendoa, and Yuiko Kasugano all capable of getting forward and doing damage. Anchoring the midfield is Schottia cap Erin Bradin, who, since joining from the Belker Picts, has been one of the league's standout players. For a long time the Handon side have been a bit of a right-off at the back, but their will be hopes that Carmichael, along with rising Schottic defender Richard Dachs can start to make inroads in that area. It's pretty hard to say what would be a good season for Kings Park. None of their fans will be expecting a title challenge, but at least somewhere near the Globe Cup spots would be nice. One thing is for certain though; another bottom half finish would put the manager under pressure.

Prediction: 10th. Worst case scenario 12th, best case 5th.

Star player: Erin Braden | Rising star: Yuiko Kasugano

It's been a pretty bumpy ride for the little team from the North Mountains, with the lows sadly outnumbering the highs. Things got off to a good start under previous manager Pascal Voitle, the only problem was it just didn't last. Veteran player Jago Avelione has since been promoted to manager, with his brother Gaston coming in as player/assistant. With next to no funds whatsoever the brother have set about giving their side a fighting chance as they look to re-establish themselves as a top half side. Christopherian international Aredhel Neil, no doubt after some persuasion from former teammate Gaston, joins on a free from Blue Coast, and will slot into the attacking mid role. Their other new addition is Broad Dalehun, who joins from SPL rivals FC Soessch. The striker as spent a long time as understudy, so this season will be a big test for him. In the midfield La Gorlions are actually looking pretty sharp these days, with Yelena Shostakovich and Fredrick Houben holding things in the middle, and Neil, Avelione, and Frank Samules all trying to get forward in support. In defence, Marcus Pfab was capped during Schottia's most recent, ill-fated World Cup campaign, while the other three have all been capped at U21 level.

Prediction: 11th. It's going to be a hard season, but their is no reason why they can't do well if they gel as a team early.

Star player: Yelena Shostakovich | Rising star: Mako Sekine

It was a relatively tricky season for The Old Boys last time round, unable to keep pace with the teams around them, they ended up a disappointing ninth. It can seem like they have perpetually been chasing down a top four spot, but to no avail, or so their league results would suggest. Marionville have a strong starting eleven however, and even though no one will have them marked out as championship contenders, we certainly aren't worried about them going down either. The man who makes them tick these days is Pasargan attacker Vojnomir Nikolic. The 22-year-old is regarded as one of the best number tens in the league, and has been an important source of goals for the club. Just in front of Nikolic is Michael Maxwell, a solid yet un outstanding striker who has been at the club for longer than even he can remember. In the centre of midfield a combination of youth and experience has served Marionville well over the last couple of seasons. Schottia cap Barry Stewart, and 23-year-old Johnny Birch take no prisoners, and really pack a punch in defence. Marionville are also blessed with a lot of pace on the wings, with Jarred Clotterman and Alyssa Haight both of a similar mould - tall, quick, and confident with the ball at their feet. In defence, Davis Daller has been capped for Schottia, and Artjom Järvinen regularly plays for Vormsi in friendlies. Marionville are going find it tough this season, but they are one of the sides in the mix, as far as gaining a good, top-half finish goes.

Prediction: 8th. Probably a very similar finish to last year, with the side going in pretty much unchanged.

Star Player: Vojnomir Nikolic | Rising Star: Alyssa Haight

Port Patrick has surprised a few people since gaining promotion to the top flight four seasons ago. A sixth place finish in their first season up, follow by three consecutive top half results has seen them establish themselves as one of the SPL's better sides. Furthermore, they have rode out the loss of many of their best players, with Heron Crew, Cerys Kennicot, and Esther Abner all heading for the exit door. On the plus side, The Breakers have had money to spend because of this, and the $2.5m invested in Chiyoko Sakuraka will definitely given them an edge. On top of this, manager Des Pleent has managed to bring Tanya Yeats back in on a free - a Brenecian who impressed on loan three years ago. Up front the club will have to adjust to the retirement of Paul Coine, who was a good source of goals right up till the end of his career. His replacement is William Snedden, a player promoted from the reserves, who has represented Schottia at under eighteen level. The 19-year-old will be partnering former Olympics women's player Jane Swanson. In the midfield, alongside Yeates, is young Nepharim player Connie Malone, who has slotted in well in her two seasons at the club. On the right is former Cornellians man Willie McIntyre, and on the left new recruit Sakuraka. In defence, the importance of Davy Keates cannot be understated. The Schottia cap has been absolutely outstanding for the club since winning promotion, and is the last of the group of star players who helped send them up.

Prediction: 9th. The way they played last year, it is probably going to be another good season for the Breakers. The fans would dearly love a fifth place finish and a crack at the Globe Cup.

Star Player: Davy Keates | Rising star: William Snedden

by **Schottia** » Thu Jul 28, 2016 10:45 am

-Part Two-

Dundee were last seasons surprise package... although, well, they weren't really that much of a surprise. We knew they were a good side, with a top manager, and their chances of replication the previous year's sixth place were high. What we didn't know was that the Panners, under manager Jock Sonny, would mount a title challenge right up until the last game of the season. In a sense Dundee have been victoms of their own success, and after their best finish in forty-two years, their manger and many of their players have caught the eye. Jock Sonny has left, taking up manager's job at Port Sebastian, and with him went two of last season's stars Vera Cummings and Steven Rexmont. With that mind, some of the club's biggest success stories pre season, will have been in staving off a mass-exodus. There was probably a temptation to bring in a high profile manager, with the likes of Jane Gullie, Barry Gorman, and Grant Nean all out of work and the team in the Globe Cup, but instead the board's appointment had more of a homegrown flavour. Johnny Smith, keeper at the club for nine years, and a first team coach under Jock Sonny took the reins with former teammate Aaron Good coming in as assistant. It will be hoped that the promotion from within will help with a smooth transition, and a continuation of the good work Sonny has started. So who's left? The thriving strike partnership of David Hughes and Jacques remains intact, despite interest in the former from FC Soessch; Smith will be hopping that those two can more or less pick up where the left off. Barry Drite, who has been with the club since their lowly days in the second tier is still at right midfield, while new signing Mark Keane joins from the Regional Development side for a fee of $1m, with the unenviable task of replacing Stevie Rexmont. Experienced Nepharim midfielder Gustav Fandrich is back for another season, and this year expect to see much more of 21-year-old Jim Gerrish, who moves out from under Cummings' shadow. The central midfielder was originally at Cornellians as a teenager and was one of Sonny's first signings at the club. Defensively, Dundee are incredibly strong, with Darvale's James Berkeley at rightback, Christopherian wonderkid Liam Goncalves on the left, and man mountain Kevin Scougle in the centre. This year they are joined by former SPL winner Max Paterson, who it believed was something of a part ex, moving in from Port Sebastian. Behind them is former Northbrook City man Gerhard Mackan who had an incredible season last year, pulling off some wonderful saves.

Prediction: 6th. Definitely top half. Probably not going to do as well as last season, but 6th, 7th, 8th will still be seen as a good result.

Star Player: Liam Goncalves | Rising star: Jim Gerrish

International Competition: Globe Cup

The days of challenging for the top four seem to be long gone now for Athletic. Players like Keelinan, Kelman, they are like mythical figures as the club has slid into decline. Now, every season seems to be one almighty effort just to claw themselves into the top ten - sometimes they fail, sometimes they succeed. Port James come into this season with a familiar shape, the versatile Semarlandic forward Remaine Clarke keeps his place upfront, with academy product Elspeth Glendening slotting in alongside him. Glendening is lacking in first team experience so we will need to wait and see what she can come up with in attack. In the midfield is probably where they are strongest. Left-sided Ismal Keirut has MPL and DBC experience and has performed steadily over the last six seasons. Both Palle Ellsmere, and Willie Erskin are very solid in the centre of the park, and are also tried and tested at this level. Completing the quartet is club captain Joseph Preca, the Eusebian islander with a mean cross, and a direct style of play, which can be hard to defend. At the back Tomoaki Neyama is fairly solid, and keeper Jack Ruver has dug them out of a few tight spots over the years. Port James don't have a bad set of players, but they will really need to work hard in order to realise their potential.

Prediction: 12th. Their arc of improvement has not been the same as the other sides around them.

Star Player: Joseph Preca | Rising Star: Elspeth Glendening.

It somehow feels like it's slipping away from Hollin a little bit. For years they were the over achieving little team, but that crown is now starting to slip. It's been a while now since they have made much of a foray up the league table, and last season they didn't miss out on relegation by an awful lot. Hollin will have Oak Park back in the SPL however, which at least guarantees another sell out match; and the slight league restructuring, meaning only three teams go down, will all but quell their relegation worries. Nick Man is promoted from the reserves to partner former DBC winner Fred Dawson in the attack, but other than that the team is relatively the same. Team captain Chris Jack, who has been capped for his country, is the main man for Hollin in the midfield, playing alongside Alistair Carlyle, Steve McAlly, and Neil Brown. In defence they have an experienced and settled back four, with Cosumarite Praxil Glasspool an important player for them.

Prediction: 14th. Not going to be easy, but they'll stay clear of the drop zone.

Star player: Chris Jack | Rising Star: Nick Man

You've got to give this side some credit. They have finally reached the SPL playing attractive football, on a tight budget, and it's easy to see why the club are growing in popularity. The small fans run co-operative are attracting bigger and bigger gates each year, as they to grow as a club. While they have yet to make a serious charge up the league, they have consolidated their position comfortably in their first two seasons, as they begin to build a strong base. Mucusia have a talented young strike force in the form of Flora Klee and Pasargan youngster Aimée Hétu. The pair managed 33 goals between them last season, a decent haul for a side in the bottom half. Just behind them is Ryuni, a Daineri attacker who seems to have been better known for her looks than her footballing ability in her home country. This has now changed, following a string of good performances for the Port James side. Along side her are; the very solid Laura Smith, Unified Sunrise U21 star Natalie "Envy" Adams, and young Gylian talent Gihaje Wehly. At the heart of the defence is their captain Poppy Fayrkirk, whose ability to play the ball out of defence is an important aspect of how the team play.

Prediction: 13th. They will be happy with mid-table for now, given that they are playing the long game

Star player: Poppy Fayrkirk | Rising star: Natalie "Envy" Adams

There would have been few in Granton expecting their side to go down two years ago, but after a poor season, such was the hand they were dealt. The side managed to keep their squad together despite dropping down a division, and now will hope to take continue on from where they left off. The Beachcombers will start out with Jack Hobbs up front; the Schottic U21 star has been the mainstay of their attack since they first returned to the SPL and he is growing with confidence each year. In the midfield Granton Vale have brought in some fresh faces, with a couple of aging players making way. In comes Kurt Hierholzer, a journey man at only 22. At one time the former Döllar and Jena man was a contemporary of the Ünterhausens, so he will be desperate to prove he has not fallen off the radar completely. Also coming in is Gerhard Bitter, who after a short spell at NBB, has avoided relegation with this sideways move. They join old fans' favourite Arron Marcie, back in a second spell at the club; Scott Cooper, who is in a similar situation; and veteran winger Will Rybka. In a relatively youthful defence Dave Cranshaws is the only real experienced head, playing alongside Tygo Pasha, Mavis Johnson, and Norman Norkin. 95Xer Krista Till starts in goals for the side.

Prediction: 15th. Probably should not have too bad a season, but they will need to pick up points against the teams around them.

Star Player: Arron Marcie | Rising Star: Jack Hobbs

A speedy return to the top flight will have come as a welcome relief for D'Itille, as they managed to pick up the very competitive Regional Division C title. Life may be far tougher than they remembered however, with the SPL probably the most competitive it has ever been. The loss of former SPL champion Callum Frir is a big blow to the side, who have brought in Jessica Knox from Stalker Bay as a replacement. She will accompany long-time fans' favourite Lucas Yashvil in the attack. In the midfield they may be struggling a little, with players like Dardan Baris not really fulfilling their early potential. Schottic U15 WC winner Jane Schramm comes in on loan from Quebecois club Sherbrooke, and they will be hoping that her all-action style will help get them over the line. If they are going to stay up, there will be a lot asked of defenders such as Marius Pujuneb, who are going to need to withstand a lot of pressure.

Prediction: 18th. It might well be back from whence they came for the North Island side.

Star Player: Lucas Yashvil | Rising Star: Jane Schramm

Constantly up and down between the first and second tier, Berwick United should be getting dizzy by now. They find themselves in the position of being one of the stronger sides in Regional Division D, but not really good enough to make a go of life in the SPL. Anyway, they are back for another stab at it, even though the outcome already seems a little obvious. It's hard to say exactly where the problem lies for the Seaguls, it's more the case that they are slightly lacking in every department. John Boyde and Brain Graham are both decent strikers at tier two level, but pretty basic. And it is a similar story with the midfield, Jonny McDonald (brother of Schottic international Jenny) probably their most effective players. One player to note however, is 23-year-old Justyna Eriksson, a national academy graduate, who performed very well last season.

Star Player: Johnny McDonald | Rising star: Justyna Eriksson

Prediction: 19th. Frustrating, but you can't really see how they have any chance of staying up: a long hard season ahead.

New Island are widely considered the best team in Region D, and three seasons in the top league would suggest that might be true. They are not particularly glamorous, and their brand of football isn't the easiest on the eye, but what they do have is a lot of experience. Nikita Clohessy is a rough and tumble style midfielder who doesn't take any prisoners, and new signing Mikkel Jorgberg should provide a good balance with right winger Xander Cross. Up front Kevin McCorry has a decent scoring record, and should hold his own, even if he is getting on a bit in age. Into their very settled defence come Cornellians' squad player Gary Hamilton, and former Nephara U21 star Rachel Brennan.

Prediction: 16th. Whatever happens it's probably not going to be pretty, but New Island are far from the worst team in the league.

Star player: Nikita Clohessy | Rising star: Wendy Gehnt

Lammerton City have always had to deal with being the city's little side, but since the Hornets' resurgence over the last three or four seasons, it has become almost impossible to stop their young fans heading to their arch rivals. Manger Rodger Green has been at the club for fourteen years now, and he has helped keep a lot of flack off them, but their is no doubt that this season will be a struggle. They have also lost the services of Shalumite international Thomas Carmichael, meaning they go in with their defence sorely depleted. That said, the Princes have a few handy players. Callum Frir is a good striker, capped at U21 level. And Farf midfielder Somuele der Pros showed some very promising signs last season. In defence they also have rising star Christopher Bishop, who has played for Schottia at various youth levels. All in all, they should have almost enough to stay up, but they'll be fighting hard until the end.

Prediction: 17th. They hopefully have a spot - one above the drop zone - with their name on it.

Star player: Callum Frir | Rising star: Somuele der Pros

Oakpark Celtic are the other professional side from the Belker region of Schottia, and with Hollin, they make up one of the fiercest derbies in the country. They are not a particularly talented, or ambitious side, but then again, with their budget how could they be. Up until now they have benefited from playing in one of the weaker regional divisions, meaning that they have these little adventures up to the SPL once in a while, just to go straight back down again. Now that Regional Divisions B and D are going to be merged however, things just got a whole lot harder. In terms of who could come along and save them this season: Rhurie Long has been by far their most consistent player over the last few years, and the experience of Cormack Coull in the centre will be important. That said, these guys will need a miracle to keep them up, and no one will be predicting anything other than a battle from the opening game if they are going to make it.

Star Player: Cormack Coull | Rising Star: Rhurie Long

Prediction: 20th. Even the most optimistic fans will find it hard to believe anything else is possible.

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

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

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