World Cup 79 • CREDRAWK • RP Thread

[Eura]

Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3 Part 4

Months ago...

All of the bickering and resistance had faltered before us by now. Eura was very close to ratifying the Orean Accords with a simple signature by my hand and that of my Foreign Secretary, and therefore entering the newborn Common Rushmori Community. The most part of a year of negotiations over the particular terms of Euran entry when it happened, given its potentially huge economic effects, had been extremely tiresome although undoubtedly important. I would happily never sit through an Expert Group on Rushmori Affairs in the Expert Executive again. Getting the votes through Parliament was relatively easy most of the time, but a few factions in the not always so united Liberal Party had left me being dubbed 'Yellow Yarley' by parts of the media. The fools. They seriously believe I would allow genuine dissidence under my leadership? Not a chance in hell. Granby was my only real opponent and now he was politically pushing up daisies. The anti-Rushmori's, the anti-free trade hard left, the anti-multilateralism hard right, swept away like ashes from a crematorium. No, it was not internal opposition that was the problem, it was what was going on outside the country - and they hadn't even started raising questions about how our democracy was going to be reshaped if, or when, Sameba collapses internally, or why that hadn't happened yet.

Liabilities were starting to emerge over the winter that might hinder our progress at a critical moment. Delays had continuously occurred with the referendums on the status of multiple sectors of northern Electrum that clearly wished to secede. I had tried to intervene personally and spoken to Wood on a number of occasions but things had only just got moving in the past few days. We already knew from our on the ground Mass Observation and polling which areas would turn over and which would not, but the transition would occur so close to the effective implementation of CRC membership that we had little time to make these areas democratically represented. It was flat out embarrassing that the Euran state and its mighty bureaucracy were not more adequately prepared for the inevitability of these regions joining us. Electrum had prepared for it so why hadn't we? Moreover, the communist upstarts in Savojarna were trying to torpedo our diplomatic reputation for supporting democracy - which had recently been demonstrated by decisive involvement in South Covello - by implying that we were undermining theirs. Needless to say, words were had with senior civil servants and intelligence officials about this. If we're going to run on dual truths of "we're not involved" and "we're definitely involved" then I don't want my party being implicated wrongly by accident. Yes, its true, the Euran intelligence services were trying to open up Savojarna's flawed democracy a bit. On this occasion though it wasn't for the benefit of my leadership. At least South Covello provided us some foreign policy relief. Their fit of misguided political instinct and the reactionary immaturity of Eshan's President had made us look as eminently sensible and assured as we try to project normally.

The head of government bears ultimate responsibility for these things no matter how much others bumbling incompetence is responsible for whatever it is that has gone wrong. I faced questions on radio's The Noel Matterson Hour because the chain of command dictated that if the underlings can't fix it, the head of the pack must do so instead. Fine. Fuck it! I'd put the record straight and in my usual style. "Be sympathetic" my advisors told me. "Be humble and admit to little defeats for a wider victory!" Where had that ever got me? 'Prime Minister, there has been a compendium of issues surrounding foreign affairs this week. As a former Foreign Secretary of some repute I'm sure you've taken a keen interest rather than delegating?'
'Naturally, I always would. I lead from the front and I believe that is why the Euran people have such faith in me to lead this government, and in turn they have faith in our party to change this country for the better day in, day out.'
'Heartwarming and idealistic as that sentiment might be, Prime Minister, you must surely admit then that you bear a degree of responsibility for recent problems. Questions are being asked throughout the world. Sameba remains standing just about. We've failed to resolve the South Covello fallout. The referendums in Electrum are holding up the paperwork for CRC entry, and now a sovereign state is accusing Eura of trying to rig its elections. Would it not be fair to say that since you became Prime Minister, your foreign policy expertise hasn't exactly translated well as a leader? Is it the distraction of having more responsibility that's the issue?' I laughed it off. In another dimension this man would be under my heel. The cheek of the bastard.

Nothing was to be gained from visible grumpiness so indeed I laughed, and smiled. 'Why, Noel, I'm sure you're not meaning to imply so insultingly that I'm ignoring foreign affairs. Eura is a global power and I see its overseas role, in an era when we ourselves have been the subject of merciless attack, as absolutely our top priority. Would I be on here instead of my very capable Foreign Secretary if I felt otherwise?'
'A fair point Prime Minister but what about the specific issues? What is the government doing to resolve these situations, if as you claim it is so on top of things?'
'To start, South Covello is not a problem area. It has conducted free and fair elections for the first time in its history under significant Euran guidance. Unfortunate as it is that they have fallen out with Eshan, we are happy to step forward once again and assume the mantle of leadership that we've always been determined to take when needed, and are continuing to try and encourage reconciliation between those two countries.' If President Revan could learn something from someone like me, a much longer player of the ambition game than he - oh, make no mistake, its as clear as day we're not all that dissimilar - its knowing when to fold. Or failing that, if the cards aren't arranged how you want them and you can't afford to fail, know how and when to turn over the table. 'Electrum and ourselves have been working together to ensure self determination triumphs in the disputed regions and while it has taken longer than we would like polling day is not far away.' The interviewer was losing the battle already.

Sensing the interview was getting away from him, he changed tack. 'What about Savojarna?'
'Savojarna does not concern me.'
'Why not? They've accused you outright of trying to buy out their democracy.'
'I can't believe you'd be so naive. You think they're a full fledged democracy yet? I'd call the situation in our regional friend a work in progress, which I doubt will offend them as all countries have flaws, Eura is no exception to that rule.' The producer behind the glass looked stunned. That was a hell of a comment to make which is exactly what the interviewer went back to me with. 'Surely you realise that is a big statement to make about a country that, to its credit, has come a long way in terms of offering elections to its people?' I shrugged off his admittedly fair point to allow my own to stand out clearly rather than getting bogged down in too much back and forth. 'Past progress is irrelevant to me. The people of Savojarna deserve a fair choice and they've certainly been making a choice, I couldn't say their government isn't popularly elected, it clearly is. But is it fairly elected? They're two very different things.'
'Is it fair for a much bigger country like ourselves to meddle in such matters though?'
'We don't meddle. We advise, support, influence. Meddling implies some sort of unfairness or underhand dealings. That isn't the way we play politics.' I couldn't help but stifle a laugh. The OSI had more data on Savojarna's electorate than they did in all probability.

My intention now was to go on about this for as long as possible. 'It strikes me as remarkable that they dare accuse us of meddling in socialist democracy when we, a Liberal government, practice democratic socialist and social democratic policy day in day out with a much bigger population to care for, elected in comprehensively fair elections with regulated campaign spending. How else do you think we broke up the two party dominance of Social and Capital? Yet if a Liberal wants to run for power in Savojarna there's no chance of a fair contest because they can't get funding or support from anyone without being harassed. They were banned until not that long ago, you know. Meanwhile, we encourage democracy to flourish around the world. South Covello, Mytannion, White Isle in Endemia, the former Inevitable Syndicate, Pasarga. There are so many instances of Eura encouraging and implementing democracy in places that struggle with it that you could lose count. To come back to your question, their accusations are all either false or deliberate spin of our actual relationship with Savojarna and we hope this hasn't soured the opinion of its noble people against us. We don't understand why they have chosen us as a scapegoat for the increasing popularity of radically different politics in their country and hope to answer any further questions they have in private, rather than conducting megaphone diplomacy outside of embassies.'
'Your party does have a relationship with their Liberal Block though?'
'Yes. Are we not allowed to have political friends in other countries? We desire a close and thriving relationship with whoever is in charge there, by the way.' It all tailed off a bit after that. I'd overstepped the mark once or twice but fuck it, the Yarley way tends to work better if I'm full on. More importantly it stopped tham asking about Sameba.

[Ceni]

I know your team will have A Thousand Teardrops if you don't qualify... Cutoff.

[South Covello]

From the Desk of Matthew Farley

To: Cocoabo Staff, Turori
From: Matthew Farley, Commerce Secretary, South Covello

Dear Cocoabo staff,

I am writing to express my deep pleasure with your proposal to expand Cocoabo to our great country, as well as the other associated businesses. I think Cocoabo, CocoMart, CoCoCo, and CoCoBo will be great additions to the South Covellan economy. But why stop there? Sell fuel at CocoGas. Sell electronics at CocoPC. You could even license out the Coco name to other chains if you want, and get hefty royalties.

The bottom line is our people will love to eat real food, especially your luscious, delicious, desserts. I have had the pleasure to visit several of your pop-up stores and can confirm that all the desserts are wonderful. And yes, I tried all of them, I would consider it a dereliction of my duties as Commerce Secretary if I failed to do so. And yes, at my confirmation hearing once President Green appointed me to this position full-time, I was asked how many desserts I tried, and many Senators were surprised to hear that I had tried all of them. In fact, I have tried every menu item, every bagel, every sandwich, every drink, and so on, and can confirm that they are all the best food I have ever eaten. Of course, the only food I ate before the Revolution was prune juice and gruel, so that isn't saying much. But isn't that the point? Compared to prune juice and gruel, anything would taste delicious. So our people are sure to find your food delicious as long as it isn't one of those two horrible, horrible items.

Our economy is fast developing, and now that I have officially been appointed Commerce Secretary, at least for the next four years, we can start to get to work on building it. I would be delighted to, in my first official act since losing the "Acting" title, offer you the opportunity to become the first foreign business to arrive here on our shores. Cocoabo and CocoMart would be tremendous additions to our economy, as would CoCoCo, CoCoBo, and any other businesses you wish to start now or at some point in the future. I am sure the Coco brands will be a huge success. And, just imagine, I'm sure the ones with coconut will be the best. We all love coconuts, we're reclaiming the coconut, like I said.

Please let me know at your earliest convenience to confirm this is what you wish to do, and we can go ahead and open the new stores in our country with all due speed. This is sure to be great for all our people, our food loving people finally free to eat something besides prune juice and gruel. But please, for the love of everything that is right, do not serve prune juice topped with chocolate, or the people will riot. I am sure you already know that, but I just want to make sure you don't do something like that as a joke.

I also look forward to your traditional modification of our flag and/or the former flag of the nation of Gregists. I think if you were to fly a "Cocoabo Is God" flag above all your stores, in South Covellan rather than Gregist colors, that would be amazing and would really reflect where we are as a nation while mocking the wicked Gregist terrorist regime. But, it's up to you what you wish to do for your campaign. Do what you think is best.

I wish you luck in all your future business endeavors, both inside our country and outside.

May freedom ever be thy watchword.

Sincerely,

Matthew Farley
Commerce Secretary of South Covello

[Cassadaigua]

Well we lost, but....
By Brittany Byers, Team Captain

Let me start by saying there is no sugar coating a 3-0 loss. We were not at our best at King Edward IV Stadium today for some reason, and mostly I credit that to the Red Kites. They were sound defensively, and really kept us at bay. You wouldn’t know by the scoreline that we were the better team for the first 15-20 minutes of this match. Hannah Ranucci and Taylor Campos each had golden on target opportunities that were turned away by Brody Church. After that flurry things began to level out, until we fell apart late. In the 39th minute, our attention to the strikers came back to burn us when Joseph Owen was left too wide open to get a good shot on net, and while Kristen Speller made the initial save, the rebound could not be cleared and Lukas Cole picked up the goal. That stunk, but to make matters worse, before the Ethane fans could stop chanting and celebrating that score, Declan Smith snuck by me, and then snuck it inside the left post to make it 2-0 in the 42nd minute. Just like that, what started as a good effort for us, would finish with a deficit of two goals going into halftime. The second half saw us try to get more chances going, but had some problems penetrating their midfield. There would be a scary moment though as Declan Smith and Chelsea Blake collided hard going for a loose ball. It was as if they were each unaware of the others presence, leading to a hard knee on knee collision. Both players lay on the pitch and required assistance. Smith seemed to have the worst of it as he needed to be carried off the field. He was substituted by Mohammed Hope. Chelsea was able to limp to the sideline, but she too would be substituted out right away, and Lupe Enriquez would enter the match. Most of the time went by without the scoreboard changing, but in the 82nd minute, when we were getting desperate, the Red Kites added insurance off the foot of Mohammed Hope, who had to feel good to get the goal in relief for the injured Smith.

After the game, following the 3-0 loss, we were obviously dejected, but thanks to Valladares getting draws in their last two games, we knew we would still control our own destiny even if we lost this game. Then, came the shocking news. Valladares lost to Aggrey-Fynn Land. Yes, the same team we beat 5-1 in Concord Heights just before this. So, this loss may not prove to be all that bad. With two games to go, we lead Valladares by four points in the group for the second spot, so a win over Legalese at Concord Heights in our next match means that we will qualify for the World Cup. In regards to the injuries that occurred during this game, Chelsea Blake will not be in action for the Legalese match, and Lupe Enriquez will get the start. She may be out for the away match against Acronius as well. As for Smith, I sent an e-mail to their coaching staff for an update and was told that they are afraid it could be something a little more serious, and he will be evaluated further. We wish him the best.

That would be an accomplishment, but first we have to find a way to beat Legalese at home. None of us are looking at the table at where Legalese is in the standings. Not in the slightest, as after all, Valladares could only get a draw with Adab. Anything is possible. Crazy things can and will happen, but rest assured that we want to finish this off against Legalese.

[Free Republics]

Sporting World

I Just Purchased News Magazine
by: Soccer General Rule Theriault

News Magazine was once the most trusted name in news but in recent years the publication has fallen into disrepute. After this publication's breakout success, it was spun off as a separate entity while News, LLC. was slowly infiltrated by activists who sought to use the magazine's good reputation to sell propaganda and outright fake news to an unsuspecting public. A number of writers used News Magazine as a megaphone, including the infamous traitor Royale Truchon, who functioned as a blatant apologist for the traitors who waged war against our Federation, our flag, our Armed Forces and our freedom! A rightly disgusted public responded by cancelling their subscriptions in droves and rightly insisting that newsstands stop carrying this publication.

Today, I bring the wonderful news that News Magazine is now under new ownership. Best of all, News Magazine is now under patriotic ownership as I am now the majority shareholder of News, LLC. In my first act as majority shareholder, I have decided to fire the entire board of directors of News, LLC along with the editors. In their place, I will be appointing good patriots who have proven their loyalty to the Federation including the new Editor-in-Chief, my brother Admiral Pierre Theriault! The Admiral may have fallen short in the Consul election but he loves the FFR and he is not going to give a platform to those who seek the destruction of our society. I have asked him to immediately clean house at News Magazine, firing anybody who cannot prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, his or her loyalty to the Federation of Free Republics and staunch opposition to the recently defeated rebel scum.

With that out of the way, I wish to use the remainder of my space today to talk about the World Cup in general and my team's performance in particular. As you are likely aware, Love Holm, a kid who reminds me of a younger Sir Koby Theodore, scored 3 goals today against Jeckland to secure another victory for the FFR! Johnny Smith also contributed a goal of his own. This victory places us 4 points clear of Barunia and Osarius with 2 matches remaining on the schedule. That means we only need 1 more win (or a Barunia-Osarius) draw to secure our first World Cup qualification in 6 years!

Nobody expected us to make it at the start of Qualifying. We came in ranked 75th, projected by the "experts" to finish behind Barunia, Osarius, Cosumar and even Jeckland! They said we were done. They said we were the past and yet here we are, once again on the verge of returning to the World Cup. Let me tell you right here and right now how we're going to qualify for the World Cup. In our next match, we are going to visit Cosumar and I guarantee you that we are going to do everything within our power to take 3 points and claim our spot, once again, amongst the elite soccer nations in the multiverse. Even if we falter there, we have Isula Reale on the last matchday at Open Software Alliance Stadium in New City and we're going to finish this historic qualification campaign in style!

As you may be aware, the World Cup Hall of Fame recently inducted Consul Kyle Bolton and Sir Koby Theodore into their prestigious club, which is home to the greatest soccer players of all time. Therefore, we are going to be holding Hall of Fame Bobbleheads Night at Open Software Alliance Stadium. Every fan in attendance will receive not one but two free bobbleheads, one of the man who just exudes coolness Consul Kyle Bolton and another of the perfect Republican Sir Koby Theodore. Consul Bolton and Sir Theodore are two of the greatest athletes in the history of our great Federation and two of the finest men who have ever lived. Don't just take my word for it. They are beloved by just about everybody who has ever played for, coached for or otherwise worked for Republican National Soccer Team in any capacity and they truly deserve to have been inducted to the Hall, together, on the first ballot.

Soccer General Rule Theriault is the official Soccer General of the Federation of Free Republics and the owner/manager of Republican National Soccer Team, LLC. Soccer General Theriault is a legendary soccer manager who once led the Free Republics to a second place finish in the World Cup and titles in both the Di Bradini Cup and the Cup of Harmony. He lives in Petrograd, Plymouth with his wife and sons.

OOC: I have 13 WCQ appearances (65-75 and 78-79) and 5 WC finals appearances (68-69, 71-73) with this nation, so I have a right to 2 Hall of Fame inductions plus another one next cycle. Consider this RP my Hall of Fame induction

[Chromatika]

Matchday 15: Chromatika 3-2 Eshan @ The Capitalizt Dome, Chromatik City, Chromatika
Chromatika: Andisori '37, Kuzami '67, Rien '82
Starting Lineup: Nier; Morningstar - Aart - Ellen; Kelly, M. (C) - Sybill - Montague - Dragana; Victoriane - Andisori - Niro. Subs: Kuzami -> Montague '49, Damjana -> Ellen '62, Rien -> Victoriane '75
Summary: Another match, another tight victory for Chromatika against Eshan in what has become an entertaining series over the years. After a narrow win in Eshan that happened due to Parker's genius, the Chromatiks fielded their usual 3-4-3 this time, and it caused quite a mismatch early. Eshan scored twice in the first thirty minutes before the Chromatiks could respond.

Thankfully, Chromatika knows how to bounce back from a rough start, and this match was no exception. Sandra Sybill found Keira Andisori on a deep cross that led to a wondrous header to start things. However, halftime seemed like too little of a reprieve. However, Chromatika has a Parker that knows how to pull changes when needed. Mimi Kuzami's appearance in the forty-ninth minute for Montague led to her scoring, and then Trenn Rien came in and put the game away with a late kick that reminded people exactly what he is capable of.

The result puts Chromatika through! A win was what they needed, and a win was what they got. It also puts Eshan to be only four points ahead of Banija.

Matchday 16: The Kiaser Colonies vs. Chromatika @ The Kiaser Colonies
Predicted Starting Lineup: Joy; An - Bozena - Lacroix; Etienne - Hellion (C) - Kuzami - Han; Kelly, W. - Mehdizade - Metod.
Although it could be said that the next three matches don't matter, momentum is no joke. Chromatika will try to maintain its form on a trip to The Kiaser Colonies, where Paola Lacroix will make a rare appearance. It is also the last few times that the bench players can play, meaning that they will be lifechanging.

[Bojikstan]

Cain replaced by Houg for closing stage of qualifying
After a lost cycle, Bojikstan is looking to an experienced player for the future
Posted by Loic Lande, Football Correspondent

As Bojikstan’s rough qualifying cycle continues with a loss to Spaam, there has been more talk of changes within the BFA, and specifically the position of President. Alan Bermejo has become quite unpopular because of his supposed mismanagement of punishing the players earlier in the cycle and suspensing Livia Andrade recently for her protests against the Bojikstani government. However, reports from inside the federation say that Bermejo will maintain his job until at least after the Cup of Harmony, when the cycle comes to a close fully. Bojikstan is rumored to be targeting a replacement before regional tournaments begin, and until that time, Bermejo is still in charge of hiring and firing personnel.

The most recent hire comes at the assistant position, after the team made a decision to drop future Bankfoot Bears manager Bruno Cain from his national team duties before the end of the campaign. Cain was originally going to finish out the cycle with Bojikstan, but after the failures of the team, he has handed in his resignation and allowed the BFA to bring in his successor, the younger and more inexperienced Lea Houg. Houg, of course, is most well known for playing for the title winning 1898 Odena team that featured national team striker Luke Demara as a centerpoint.

Houg, 40, played her career as a defender, and began by spending a few years at SC Morievo B before being promoted into the first team and quickly becoming their main ‘hustle’ player. She would rack up more than two hundred appearances for the Wolfpack, before transferring to Odena for the later years of her career and making up part of the core of their back line. The BFA has not officially announced the hire as of now, and according to inside sources, the announcement will be made only hours before the team’s next match.

[Mriin]

"I'm a little worried, to be honest..."

Don shook his head and tutted. "No, Mari, we can't have naysaying now. We're atop a strong group for a reason; we deserve to be here; you deserve to be here."

"Oh no," the lanky striker blushed, "I-I don't mean we're not good enough, or anything like that. It's just... you know, a feeling. Like, we did well against Pasarga in Torgos, but... we also did well against Port Christopher in their 'Republic', and then they kicked us around Haven. We have a worse record at home than abroad!"

"There are so many more factors than home field advantage at play here," he snorts back, "losing home points to quality sides like Port Christopher and Kel Assuk is an expected eventuality; don't forget the latter also took points in Pasarga. And our other stumble, the Moorish Lands debacle, was fueled by having to sit two of our lynchpin offensive pieces. I've seen the work you've been putting in lately; you know as well as I do should that happen again you're much better equipped to take over for Solara."

"Yeah, I know, I just... it's hard to shake it. Like, we've got two sides fighting to get in to play, and a side that held us at home even if we have excuses for it. Port Christopher has a way easier time in their last three games, and we're close in goal difference so us drawing and them winning would even put them ahead there. I'll keep it off the field, but I don't think this cloud is going to stop following me until the papers have us in green."

Don shrugged. "If that's the case, so be it. As long as you still play confidently we'll do great."

And so they took their own ways out of Haven, Mari's shoulders a little more slumped than usual.

[Eshan]

Rosaria Daily Herald | Sporting Section
Loss To Chromatika Breaks Run Of Eight Straight Wins

Well that’s a pretty painful way to snap our streak of taking 24 points from our last 24. A 3-2 loss to Chromatika, the same scoreline as that of our first match against them in the first edition of this fixture when they beat us 2-3 at our place. So to lose twice, that’s extremely disappointing, and also sets our qualification campaign back just a little bit. We have a four point lead on Banija, but with nine points left to play for it is going to go down to the wire. We looked halfway decent in the first half against Chromatika, but the second half the number four team in the world showed why they had earned their distinction and put our team to the sword.

Instead of sitting deep and playing defensively as some would have thought, Alexio del Nieran sent the team out to win and played with an attacking style designed to put the pressure on. It looked pretty good for the first ten minutes, as we did great to keep the pressure on them at all times and hunting them down every time they had the ball and turn that into aggressive attacking possession. The lads were rewarded for their persistence and great effort, with none other than Marco van Ciavatinni himself scoring the opening goal in the eleventh minute. Samper Markovic did brilliantly to win the ball in midfield before passing the ball up to Jean-Marie Bentacur, who neatly picked the ball up and over an oncoming tackle with a brilliant first touch before hitting the ball through their defensive line to the everpresent, the beautiful, the brilliant, the great, the one, the only, the everlasting, Marco van Ciavatinni, who collected the great pass in stride and hit the ball past their keeper to make it 0-1, and that was a realllllllly great feeling!

Classically, it was short lived as Andisori equalized for Chromatika in the 37th. They had started to play stronger and were controlling the flow of the game, I mean what do you expect from the fourth best team in the world. Aurélian Gautier almost got to the shot but it managed to creep in and it was 1-1, damn it…

But then, oh, what joy! What gracious joy! Marco van Ciavatinni, the genius, the magisterial, the already mentioned cause he scored the earlier goal if you don’t remember! Steven Tadeo was mucking about around their box with the ball and got taken down in the 41st minute for a freekick. Of course, MvC stepped up, and he hit a niceeeee arching shot that blew into the net to make it 1-2, and we certainly felt at least some glimmer of hope.

Halftime rolled around, and while we had definitely played well and were obviously winning, cause we put the ball in the net twice and they only did it once you see, it was clear that the team from Chromatika had plenty of firepower and would certainly be pushing hard in the second half and that a long 45 minutes lay in store for the Echani national team and I wonder how much longer I can make this one run on sentence?

As feared, they really put us down in the second half, totally dominating in all aspects of play and we were forced to played on the back foot, and it’s always painful to see that. You want to attack, you want to be running at the other team, and seeing your team play defensive ball was always a sad sight.


The got the equalizing goal in the 67th minute, when one of their substitutes did well to score a nice goal during a long period of possession for those buggers. 2-2. Alexio del Nieran responded by making a change of his own, bringing off Artemis Montinari for Varsaly Marenzo in an attempt to shore up our defensive effort. With nothing coming in the next few minutes, he made his second change by bringing Magnum Cerelius on for Marshawn Mercury in the 73rd minute.

The killing strike came in the 82nd minute when another of their substitutes, who woulda thought the fourth best team in the world would have a good bench right, knocked in a great effort from distance, and judging by how they had really controlled the game for the last while of the game, it really did seem unlikely we were going to score again.

That being said, the team certainly didn’t stop trying, attacking attacking attacking but devastatingly falling short. That beautiful Erathi bastard del Aimbot made his final change of the night in the 84th minute, bringing on Jean-Pol Roland for Samper Markovic in an attempt to add a phenomenal passer and attacking threat in the last few minutes. Roland certainly didn’t disappoint as he helped spearhead a few shots on goal, but we just couldn’t find a way to get that essential equalizing goal and the game finished 3-2 in Chromatika’s favor. Damnnnnnnnnnnn it.

A win here would’ve been yuuuuuuuge, effectively sealed our qualification and given us some chance at maybe snagging first place from that darned Chromatika, but instead we force ourselves into a close run in on our qualification campaign. At the top of the group sits, yup, you guessed it, Chromatika with forty points. We, the beautiful and glorious nation of Eshan, sit six points behind with 34, while Banija nips at our heels with thirty points. That four point gap, that sure is something I’ll tell you what! I really wouldn’t mind having that gap be like…a substantial bit larger but hey, these are the situations you dig yourself into and you have to have that Mamba Mentality, that Will to Power, THAT SHEER DESIRE TO WIN BABY.

Anyways, there’s nine points left so we really have to play at our best and make sure not to do anything so stupid as to shoot ourselves in the face and drop out of qualification. Things really do look good for us, we’ve got a nice and straightforward run in so, don’t fuck it it up boys!

Go Eeeeeeessssssshhhhhhhaaaaaaannnnnnn!!!!!!!

[95X]

Continued from here.

The lights turned on, where Xi Foureleven and her troops found themselves met by troops commanded by Wu Fivetwelve. The latter looked as if she had a score to settle with the former.

"No wonder you did not take the assistant coach position," Foureleven commented.

"This isn't about soccer!" Fivetwelve snapped, uncharacteristic of her usually easy-going nature. "This is about what's best for everybody, for me, for you, and even for your kids."

"How dare you bring them into this!"

"Don't interrupt me again!" Fivetwelve shouted back. "Anyhow, we all know you lined up a bunch of cronies and declared yourself president when all you can actually claim is a soccer stadium. So, as your former teammate, it gives me great pleasure to do the honors."

Fivetwelve pulls out a silenced handgun, as Foureleven's armed entourage prepared for attack.

"Why would you turn on all, yourself included?" Foureleven made a final attempt to philosophize with Fivetwelve.

Fivetwelve laughed.

"Because," she replied, "I'm a mercenary. Just like you. When you've played soccer for whomever pays the most for your talents, you realize there's no difference!"

Fivetwelve fired as soon as she finished the sentence. However, the bullet left the chamber and instead of making its intended target, fell to the ground as soon as it left the barrel, as if it had no velocity.

Someone on Foureleven's side fired back, only for the same thing to happen.

"Hey, what's a little girl doing here?" someone in the back of the room asked, pointing at a girl holding her hand out as if she is directing traffic with a 'stop' sign.

Foureleven looked to her right, in horror:

"SARAH! WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?!"

[Drawkland]

Some of your teams may set the Night On Fire tonight!
(My high school band played this piece once. I played the tambourine. I probably have carpal tunnel now.)

[Nephara]

Apox 1-0 Nephara
(4-2-3-1) 1 - Tsattalios; 18 - Brymora, 5 - Konoval, 6 - Scharner, 3 - Lohengrin; 4 - Misidjan, 8 - Tarashaj (15 - Klein 79'); 7 - Szalai (13 - Fanaiyan 70'), 21 - Gosforth (c), 11 - Strongbow; 9 - Hawke (17 - Stavanger 70')

Dragan Stavanger
Derived from the Slavic element 'dragu' meaning "precious".

Three caps in and they were already calling Heron Kendall a lucky charm.
Stavanger quite liked her, in all honesty. She was an unapologetic mercenary who viewed her sudden success with a raised eyebrow, but had moved quickly to capitalise and secure a lucrative boot deal. The absurd pastel cyan numbers would stay at home in Schottia - boots on international duty for the Cormorants had to be primary black - but they spoke of a recent successes. She seemed to fight for her country mostly out of obligation, not honour.
They'd been played as a strike partnership over the past couple of matches - easy home fixtures against weak opposition - and linked up well. It wasn't Kendall's fault that she was more the pure goalscorer, he the dedicated hold-up man who did the hard yards and sought individual glory only second. But it did mean the headlines had caught onto the fact that, in her three caps, she had four goals - at least one in every game.
She was likable enough, made for good company, and seemed level-headed in every regard. But she was also his rival, and must be overshadowed.
She'd understand that, he knew.

"We've been found out," Stavanger heard Brandon mutter on the touchline two days later. It was true. The Cormorants had started steadily, not thrillingly, but had been undone when Vladimirescu's cross met a spectacular half-volley from Oakstone-Sandoval on the other wing. Tsattalios' fingertips hadn't been enough to stop the Cormorants from going one down in the 22nd minute, and Nephara's perfect record looked under serious threat.
Not enough had changed since. In fact, only a spectacular reflex save from Tsattalios had kept out a bullet header from Alpha Gandhi, while at the other end the defensively resolute, nigh-invincible Apox of old was back. Hawke was nowhere to be seen, had only had one clear chance and dragged it wide, and so it wasn't too shocking to see her pulled.
Stavanger, to his own great satisfaction, was preferred to Kendall.
Of course it was Stavanger! Kendall might be the one in 'hot form', but it was Stavanger who had scored twice in their last match. It was Stavanger who boasted over half a century of caps for the national team, it was Stavanger who had been the success story in the Premiership from a young age, it was Stavanger who had played for several distinguished, settled seasons in Valladares.
And when Rowena Strongbow, wrestling with Ayrton Fox every step, trying to get purchase, somehow managed to hook in a beautiful, floating cross just before falling out of play?
It was Stavanger who smashed a free header against the crossbar from eight yards.

Michael Brandon was terse post-match, as if the past fifteen matches - fifteen wins - just hadn't happened. Questions came straight at him;
"Do you have a timetable for Leona Rafford's return?"
And were batted straight back.
"She'll be ready when she's ready. We've already qualified, and there's no need to take risks with her fitness. Danijel and Talisca are entirely capable."
"Sorrell? On the strength of a single ca-"
"On the strength," said Brandon, testily, "on a series of excellent performances at Premiership level over the past few years."
"Then why instead blood Ruon Asante-"
"Youth. Do you have any more interesting questions?"
Pens scratched at notepads. Brandon licked his lips.
"Do you regret bringing on Stavanger for Hawke, your best striker? With Kendall in such fine form?"
"I am privileged to have many fine strikers within my ranks. I chose Stavanger - who, I'll remind you, scored twice last week -"
"And he missed that header."
"Strikers miss chances," said Brandon sharply. "If they didn't, every game would end five-all. Tonight, Apox were the better team. We can go home, secure in the fact that we left everything out there on the pitch today, secure in having qualified early and comfortably and secure in an excellent record. The schedule has given us the challenge of facing three World Cup quality sides in the last three matches, and we've been fortu- no, good enough to have qualified with plenty to spare. Now we have the opportunity to use them as tuneups for the World Cup itself."
He stood up. That would be all for tonight.

NEPHARIM NATIONAL TEAM SELECTION - FORTNIGHT 9
Goalkeepers: 1 - Apostolos Tsattalios (Falourr, EUR), 12 - Gideon Fletcher (AFC Treason), 20 - Andreas Swoboda (1830 Azoth, CEN)
Defenders: 2 - Talisca Sorrell (Coret Hawks), 3 - Sieglinde Lohengrin (Crisisbless), 5 - Dieter Konoval (KT Moreazerua, AUD), 6 - Malachite Scharner (Jungle Strike, VIL), 18 - Danijel Brymora (Brinemouth), 19 - Lux Vicelich (Sabrefell Moths), 22 - Ryan Theuer (Falourr, EUR)
Midfielders: 4 - Servet Misidjan (AFC Treason), 7 - Adnan Szalai (Ulsa, EUR), 8 - Vedran Tarashaj (AFC Treason), 11 - Rowena Strongbow (Avenida Leal, FFD), 13 - Ishtar Fanaiyan (Eastweald, COS), 14 - Ursula Rowan (Cassandra City, COS), 15 - Rusalka Klein (Crawford City FC, COS), 16 - Regatta Aspenwood (Handon United, SCT), 21 - Konrad Gosforth (Mâ Âlâmëómë, FFD, c), 23 - Monica Rowland (Parrhesia United)
Forwards: 9 - Estrella Hawke (Sabrefell Athletic), 10 - Heron Kendall (Port Sebastian, SCT), 17 - Dragan Stavanger (Tannenberg FC, VLD)

SCHEDULE
Thibaea 0 - 1 Nephara
Nephara 4 - 2 Natanians and Nosts @ Godswatch (Crisisbless)
Al Qurija 2 - 4 Nephara
Nephara 4 - 0 Taeshan @ The Gauntlet (Treason)
Rotztotzka 1 - 5 Nephara
Akatsurai 0 - 1 Nephara
Nephara 2 - 1 Apox @ Farham Arena (Sabrefell)
Ko-oren 0 - 1 Nephara
Nephara 3 - 0 Eura @ Farham Arena (Sabrefell)
Nephara 6 - 4 Thibaea @ Eagle's Club (Brinemouth)
Natanians and Nosts 0 - 4 Nephara
Nephara 2 - 0 Al Qurija @ The Iron Hill (Vermillion)
Taeshan 1 - 3 Nephara
Nephara 2 - 0 Rotztotzka @ The Gauntlet (Treason)
Nephara 3 - 0 Akatsurai @ Phoenix Rise (Corvistone)
Apox 1 - 0 Nephara
Nephara vs. Ko-oren @ Eagle's Club (Brinemouth)
Eura vs. Nephara

[Osarius]

Firebirds, he says
once roosted here

Many years
have passed since
they, as one
in their majesty
and radiance
self-immolated
at the summit
of the world

Leaving nothing
but a pile of ash
and a stagnant pool
of violently red
feathers and blood
forgotten
in the absence
of its fiery glow

The brittle iron
and molten slag
of years past
steadily flow down
the mountainside
through carbon-rich
and bitterly cold
Northern towns

It reveals
hidden gems
scorches away
the darkness
in plumes
of furious grey
with only hints
of a spark

Folded upon itself
myriad times over
and buffeted repeatedly
by the sheer stone
and hardened faces
Steel passes through
purified of weakness
not shackled by fear

It waits
from time to time
in angry wounds
stewing away
boiling in rage
tempering itself
preparing
for a return

Then it comes
rebirth
preceding the
re-ascent
up the icy
treacherous
paths to the top
of the mountain

Where Firebirds
once did roost

- Anonymous

[Brenecia]

Brenecia 1 - 0 Donner Land
(4-2-3-1) 20 - Buchanan; 19 - V Hamilton, 5 - Varney, 6 - Cascarine, 3 - Levein; 23 - Alweather (c), 16 - Conroy; 15 - Garrard, 11 - Wheeler, 13 - Macbeth (22 - Cattalock 82'); 14 - Charnwood (9 - Lynch 62')
Goal: Lynch 70'

Garifunya 0 - 2 Brenecia
(4-2-3-1) 1 - Woodgate (c); 2 - Szukala (19 - V Hamilton 68'), 18 - Heneghan, 5 - Varney, 22 - Cattalock (3 - Levein 83'); 23 - Alweather (4 - Ruffan 62'), 21 - Skorupska; 7 - C Hamilton, 8 - Hartsdown, 10 - Ashbrown; 17 - Bannion
Goals: Ashbrown 27', Bannion 54'

THE ROZELLE OBSERVER
Rumours of Bardsley resignation spark question of next step
Laura Mulholland

Nothing's been confirmed yet, and neither Catherine Bardsley nor the BFA are offering comment. But enough sources are suggesting that Bardsley will leave the national post after the next World Cup to trigger a wave of speculation on who exactly would step up next.

It's certainly not hard to imagine Bardsley has seen and done enough. This second stint has cemented her status as Brenecia's most successful manager as her admittedly dour but undoubtedly effective style of play, so far removed from the swashbuckling style she pioneered, but she is now 58, has just overseen her second straight qualification, won a Campionato and does, it has to be said, appear... tired. It's unsurprising. Her career has been far more harrowing than most.

The BFA has made no secret that it would be willing to look abroad for a replacement, but the bookies' favourite to take over is Aisling Crowan. The young manager showed enough with Rosbank Town, keeping a deeply limited, ragged squad afloat in the A-League time and time again, that she caught the eye of Hastmead Diamante. After three years there, her star has risen yet further, and her reputation for wringing the best out of young talent is an important one in light of Brenecia's traditions.

Somewhat damningly, two recent departures from the managerial hot seat are dark horses among the candidates. Notably, both were sacked. In fact, Danielle Granger is in the eyes of many the worst manager to have ever taken the job, after a meagre record of one failed qualification before her axing. And yet, she's been responsible for the staggering recent success of Northern Stallions, and it appears her failures with Brenecia have only revitalised her. Still, would she even be willing to take up the post again?

Bardsley's predecessor, the swashbuckling Raven Cullen is another high-flying candidate with Kings' Park (after an ill-starred stint with the now-dormant Anglatia national team), but reportedly has no interest in departing her post. Brenecians can be satisfied enough that her work with Meghan Hartsdown and Tiferet Ashbrown has sharpened them into international mainstays.

Conrad Keane is another name that's turned up from time to time. Former assistant manager of the national team, Keane reportedly clashed with Bardsley (Mark One) time and time until being forced out. He's since had a fairly successful spell with Lotus Park, and now plies his trade in Mercedini. Still, he boasts a fairly slender resume despite his big mouth - then again, international managers often come somewhat out of nowhere. Call it an X-Factor - Keane's got something going for him.

Of a variety of untried A-League candidates, and a nod to the promise of Tailtiu Brennan, many could step up to the plate. Gabrielle Hourihane would have to be the most likely of these, beating in mind her successes with Kingsgrove, but it's not impossible to see Fiona Sylver of Rosbank (yet another former Patriots assistant manager, and a captain before that) or Eleanor Lingard of Rozelle being given the job. They're outside shots, though. And it's always possible that the job is handed down to the watchful, intelligent assistant, Colm Beckwith. He's currently a 25-1 shout.

A lot, in the end, will come down to style. Will the new manager restore the old ways of Bardsley Mk. 1 and the Kingsgrove School? Then Hourihane is the outstanding traditionalist candidate, assuming Cullen won't budge. Will hard-nosed defensive power win out? Then Keane's uncompromising style and hard talk may give him the edge. Or will long-term rebuilders like Crowan or Granger be handed the reins to do as they wish? Whoever gets the job, the next cycle could be fascinating indeed.

BRENECIAN NATIONAL TEAM SELECTION - FORTNIGHT 9
Goalkeepers: 1 - Mathis Woodgate (Myrmidon, CEN, c), 12 - Rostyn Calhoun (Cenial United, CEN), 20 - Rosalind Buchanan (Lunas FC, PAS)
Defenders: 2 - Czeslawa Szukala (Phalanx AF, CEN), 3 - Brigid Levein (Marque), 5 - Garwyn Varney (Soldarian FC, VAL), 6 - Eoin Cascarine (Peynol-Lunas, PAS), 18 - Cheney Heneghan (Ernesse Stahl, BYN), 19 - Vaila Hamilton (Lotus Park), 22 - Siri Cattalock (Sardin United, PAS)
Midfielders: 4 - Matt Ruffan (Holdenberg City, EUR), 7 - Caitriona Hamilton (Westpike United), 8 - Meghan Hartsdown (Kings Park, SCT), 10 - Tiferet Ashbrown (Kings Park, SCT), 11 - Corby Wheeler (Rozelle United), 13 - Adelina Macbeth (Club Stein-Los, PAS), 15 - Cu Roi Garrard (Snowden River), 16 - Harper Conroy (Rozelle United), 21 - Aleksandra Skorupska (Northern Stallions), 23 - Catsidhe Alweather (Eastal Lunar, VIL)
Forwards: 9 - Fionn Lynch (SC Rinaldi, VAL), 14 - Fox Charnwood (Hellinic-Rouge, PAS), 17 - Aelfwynn Bannion (North Hall)

SCHEDULE
Brenecia 3 - 1 Krytenia
Pridnestrovia 3 - 2 Brenecia
Brenecia 2 - 0 Damukuni
West Angola 1 - 3 Brenecia
Brenecia 1 - 0 Yuezhou
Empire of Donner Land 0 - 1 Brenecia
Brenecia 2 - 0 Garifunya
Brenecia 2 - 0 Gangnam
EEC 0 - 1 Brenecia
Krytenia 1 - 1 Brenecia
Brenecia 1 - 0 Pridnestrovia
Damukuni 2 - 0 Brenecia
Brenecia 2 - 0 West Angola
Yuezhou 0 - 1 Brenecia
Brenecia 1 - 0 Empire of Donner Land
Garifunya 0 - 2 Brenecia
Gangnam vs. Brenecia
Brenecia vs. EEC

[Mercedini]

Mercedinian Path To World Cup Made Even Longer
@ Zoloroni Sports City Stadium - Zoloroni, Mercedini

While the Echani President officially kicked off his state visit to Mercedini, much of the population was coming to terms with missing out on a World Cup for the second successive cycle. While the Golden Eagles aren't officially eliminated from proceedings, their path to Ceni and Drawkland was made a whole lot tougher as they slip three points behind the leading pack of Abanhfleft and The Holy Empire, following a 2-0 away defeat to the latter nation. It means that Mercedini must beat both New Doltania and Abanhfleft to even have a sniff at a potential World Cup Spot. Of course, if Mercedini can beat Abanhfleft to eradicate their three point lead, goal difference will become a factor to separate the teams, with the Golden Eagles leading the goal difference charts in the group for a while, the job looks a lot simpler than it actually is.

.                         Pld   W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Abanhfleft             16   13   1   2    49   23  +26    40  MD18 (A)
 2 The Holy Empire        16   13   1   2    49   27  +22    40
 3 Mercedini              16   12   1   3    51   25  +26    37
 4 Equestrian States      16    9   2   5    25   24   +1    29
 5 Alpine Union           16    6   6   4    27   26   +1    24
 6 Lisander               16    6   2   8    40   43   −3    20
 7 South Toronto          16    3   5   8    31   42  −11    14
 8 Indusse                16    3   4   9    20   37  −17    13
 9 Bjornoya Islands       16    1   4  11    16   34  −18     7
10 New Doltania           16    0   2  14    17   44  −27     2  MD17 (H)

Lyndaimium has certainly made a statement of intent when it comes to leading the Mercedinian National Team, taking the nation to it's first ever regional final at the Independent's Cup. In qualifying, he has ensured the team is a far cry from the dismal performance last cycle, where they finished fifth in the considered group of death. The Cenian manager has certainly put Mercedini on the map when it comes to keeping up with the big dogs, leading their group on multiple occasions, leading the scoring charts throughout the whole World Cup plus taking theams from pot one and pot two all the way, although the main problem this cycle has been taking points from those higher ranked teams to progress. Against the top two sides, Mercedini have picked up a grand total of zero points, something that must change if Mercedini are to follow up their successful 77th World Cup campaign in the 79th.

Once again, defensive frailties have come to the forefront once again in a campaign that has been littered with goals, for and against. The likes of Chillotov, Dostalok, Billic and Alotic have been banging in the goals for the nation, culminating in two seven-goal hauls and a qualification average of more than three goals a game. The fans and the pundits knew that they had a world class strike force, but it was their leaky defence that had always caused them problems, and this cycle was no different.

A total of twenty-five goals have been let in by the team throughout qualifying, averaging well over a goal per game throughout qualification. While Mercedinian defence exports have been few and far between, the ifferance between the quality of the defence and the attack is striking, with Lyndainium not able to stick to a preferred first choice in defence. All four clean sheets have come some of the lowest ranked teams in the group, and even when fully in control of the match, the Golden Eagles always find a way to let a couple of goals in (highlighted with both 7-2 wins over New Doltania and Indusse).

Whether Mercedini go on to qualify for the World Cup, or move onto the Cup of Harmony. It has been a series of positives and manageable negatives for the Golden Eagles moving forward. Progress is stalling within the nation when it comes to football, with the MFA disparately trying to move Mercedini out of the realm of perennial Cup of Harmony participants and mid-ranking mediocrity. As stated before, the team have two matches to change their fortune, with the qualification calendar drawing to a close with Abanhfleft vs. Mercedini on match day eighteen

World Cup 79 Qualification MD15
Mercedini 2-1 Equestrian States @ Zoloroni Sports City Stadium - Zoloroni, Mercedini

Starting XI: Hosset • Aznelik - Dosic - Ossun - Catessic • Crasic - Kraljic - Nymark - Presic • Dostalok - Billic
MRC Goalscorers: Dostalok 34', Presic 57'

World Cup 79 Qualification MD16
The Holy Empire 2-0 Mercedini @ Imperial Hippodrome - The Imperial City, The Holy Empire

Starting XI: Hosset • Aznelik - Dosic - Ossun - Park • Vaselko - Kraljic - Nymark - Pujanic • Dostalok - Chillotov

[Filindostan]

---

NATIONAL | BUSINESS | PROVINCIAL | INTERNATIONAL | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT

---

ELEKSYON 90004
Dutete wins presidential race; Leonido edges Marcioso for Vice-president

SAN MARCO - After five days of canvassing the votes, Dorigo Dutete and Renee Leonido were proclaimed as Filindostani president and vice-president respectively.

The standard bearer of the PDP-Kasambayanan had 56 percent of the votes against Mar Ajartambun (FLP) who garnered 31 percent, while Merian Offensor-Robles (FFP) had only 8 percent of the votes. 5 percent of the votes were either voted abstain or were spoiled ballots.

The majority of the votes to Dutete came from the Kabunuklan Island, where he dominated the polls, 93 percent of the votes went to him, while Offensor-Robles got 5 percent, and only 0.7 percent voted for the standard bearer of the Filindostani Liberal Party.

It was a different story for the vice-presidential race, however. Dutete's running mate, Allen Cayatano, failed to even sniff into the two other candidates for the post, with the FLP bet nipping the nephew of Theo Marcioso by a mere percent, 42-41-11-2.

The two elected officials will take their oaths of office at the Pinaglubugan Shrine on December 31. However, the camp of Marcioso plan to raise an electoral protest to the Filindostani Elections Commission.

Written by FSNA Staff

---

"Sir Dory, do you really want to do this?"

"Yes, I do. We need to eradicate drugs and criminality here in Filindostan. It's time to start our Operation Katay. Mr. Mong Go, I want my Brigadier General Bato here in my office."

"Okay."

From training in the KsK field, Brig. Gen. Bato was called to the office of the re-elected president. Here, Dorigo outlined what he planned to eradicate the problem of drugs in the country -- and he was willing to have bloodshed in order to acheive this.

OOC: Apologies for a brief RP. I just need to set this up for the next RP arc after the qualifiers.

[Juvencus]

Players celebrating victory
DEUS VULT! Juven national team a step closer to world cup qualification!

Juvencus XI:
GK:Taddeo Bulgari
CB:Dudu Madeiros
CB:Artur Bernat
CB:Valerio Scarpa
CDM:Nino Russo
CDM:Elio Provenzano
RM:Hugo Grec
LM:Angelino Alberighi
RF:Demetro Laterza
LF:Joauim Martell
CF:Santo Silvestri

Britonisea XI:
GK:North Quinton
CB:Ron Xander
RB:Jake Blake
LB:Lucas Jérémie
CDM:Erwin Large
CM:Jourdain Amédée
RM:Alton Mleczko
LM:Adrian King
RF:Palmer Criswell
LF:Lukas Amédée
CF:Forrest Manhandle

Another night of victory in Juvencus. The team's approaching world cup qualification, after the 14th matchday of the world cup qualifers. A win with 2-0 over Britonisia to climb up to the 4th place means Juvencus has to fight to get over the likes of Tobiasia and Nova Anglicana, both of which are still 2 points above Juvencus. The match didn't feature a really offensive Juvencus which meant the team was more efficient than other games. Britonisia however was a very strong opposing side which made it hard for the boys to secure the victory.

The first half started with a possessive Juven side, Russo and Provenzano controlling the midfield, passing it to the sides to Grec and Alberighi but the latter 2 couldn't find any space to push from during the first 20 mins of the half. The only real chance during this time was a Silvestri shot outside the box which was saved by Quinton. The latter part of the half saw a slightly more offensive Juvencus, with Alberighi finding some space to push from in the right side of the Briton side. In the 38th minute, a Martell through ball saw a ready Silvestri chipping the ball over Quinton's head, making it 1-0 at half time. The last chance of the half however was produced by Britonisea, a Mleczko cross saw Forrest Manhandle heading the ball right at Bulgari's hands.

The second half was even more offensive, Juvencus instantly went to the offensive, Hugo Grec pushed from the right, passed it to Laterza and the latter passing it back to him, so he could pass it through to Silvestri who scored another one. 2-0 by 48. The offense didn't stop there, 13 minutes later, by the 61st minute a Laterza shot went wide.
Then a barrage of chances followed, with Martell and Silvestri pummeling the Briton side, however with no real chance to broaden the lead. In the 88th minute, Adrian King collapsed. It is reported that it was a cardiac arrest however he survived and is expected to return to action after treatment. The game finished with a 2-0 scoreline in favour of Juvencus. Next game is against Vangaziland, away. They're coming after a 4-0 defeat to Acapais, so this is expected to be a stroll in the park for the Juven lads. Special remark is directed to Santo Silvestri, the 22 year old has scored 8 goals so far in the qualifiers, making him the top scorer of the Juven squad.

[Schottia]

CMB

Part Six.

Now or never.

So how was she going to do this..?

It was the second leg of Schottia's penultimate qualifying double-header, and Connie was sat in her usual spot, knees drawn up under her chin, in the second row of the sub's bench. Only the top of her nose and her eyes were visible over the top of her tracksuit top, which as always, was pulled up to conceal as much of her face as possible.

She glanced at the stadium clock, fifty-seven minutes played and she was running out of time. Schottia were four one up against Acapais and she knew that the Gaffer wouldn't leave Lucy Curren on for the whole match. It was very likely that either she or Ross would be getting told to do some stretches at any moment.

So how do people do this sort of thing? She swivelled her head five degrees in his favour, before quickly snapping back. What on earth do you say to someone? Ross had been quiet for the last five or six minutes, focused on the game. He too had no doubt sensed that there was a chance he could be going on, and he would be desperate for an opportunity to show what he could do. Ross' seat on the plane was likely, but not guaranteed. Višnja might also be in with a shout for that third striker's role, even though Ross was very much in pole position. His dedication to his career, and his enthusiasm were admirable, and Connie knew she should be trying blood hard to admire him for it. He had done his best to turn over a new leaf, living cleanly; if she was going to find a way to love him, she was going to have to respect that, no matter how hard it seemed.

Jesus fuckin' Christ! She was getting herself in a fucking state now, and those frustrations inevitably vented themselves in aggression. The top of Michael Koller's shaven head, in the row in front, was looking more and more slappable with each passing second. Poor Mike, poor everyone for that matter, the seats immediately around Connie should have been cordoned off.

It was coming up for the hour mark now, a change had to be imminent, it was now or never if she were going to initiate this plan. What if he said no, though? What if he actually turned her down? That would surely be more of blow than her preciously fragile sense of self-esteem could take. Connie could picture it in slow motion freefall, shattering to a million pieces, along with any chance she had of tomorrow's session with Dr Durí being in any way uplifting. She would have chewed her own hand off at the wrist, then and there, to have ten minutes of the Doctor's advice.

Fifty-nine minutes. Right! Connie slapped her knees hard with both hands, loud and decisive, as she turned towards the Cednia Beach striker. The movement got his attention, and he flinched in fright, his hands coming up toward his face as if expecting a blow.

Connie pulled the collar of her tracksuit from her mouth, her heart was beating erratically. This was normally how she felt before a fight. 'Ross Renshaw...'

'ROSS RENSHAW!'

Ross' name was repeated from somewhere down on the touchline, as it looked like he was about to be thrust into the fray. He looked between the two competing parties. He could tell from the use of his last name, and the look in her eyes, that Connie had something important to say. (Although at that precise moment, it was impossible to tell whether he was in danger or not.) However, when the manager shouted, he was expected to jump.

'RENSHAW, NOW!'

'Eh, eh... COMING!' Ross nervously shouted over. 'Not sure if it's important, but can you hold that thought Connie?'

Acapais 1–5 Schottia
Line-up: Gould, Hordern, Doig, Souter, M.Ünterhausen, Conjure, J.Ünterhausen (Adams), Killanen (James), Rudden, Alexandersson, Curren (Renshaw)
Goals: Curren (3), Killanen, Rudden

Lucy Curren: best striker in the world at the moment? No, definitely not, but five goals in her last two games is a very impressive tally. The Hondo striker's recent form is made all the more remarkable by the fact that she was firmly branded [Average] as little as eighteen months ago by much of the Schottic media. The 29-year-old was ruthless in this match, as she tucked away three fine goals, to leave with the match ball under her arm.

Louis Hordern and Gareth Souter were back in the side for the trip to Acapais, as were Eoin Killanen and Chloe Rudden. Johannas Ünterhausen got the nod ahead of Line Stenberg in the midfield, and Mars Alexandersson won her first Schottia cap, as Lionel Mah looked to fine-tune the final squad selection.

She might have been making her first appearance in white and green, but Sunrise Island born Alexandersson is already a hugely experienced competitor with Lammerton, and that showed. Alexandersson slotted in just behind Curren, and the two women looked very effective for Schottia early on, combining well for the first and third of the striker's goals. By half time Schottia were four one up and looking very comfortable. A hattrick from Curren and a Killanen free kick did all the damage, as Schottia's pace proved difficult for the home side to deal with.

The second half was somewhat more sedate, with both teams scoring just the single goal apiece. Souter found substitute Natalie Adams in space, who in turn played a cutting ball through for Rudden to slice home from the angle of the box, making it eleven goals in two matches.

[Super-Llamaland]

TIGERS TWO WINS AWAY
Itzel Herrera - LSN Football

VARGAS - Combined with both Darmen and Jeruselem dropping critical points last night (the latter falling 4-2 to the same Isles of Avon side that took four points off of the Tigers), Super-Llamaland’s narrow win over Traffia placed their qualification hopes squarely in their own hands. With just two matches to play before the end of qualifiers, the Tigers can clinch qualification with wins against Fampakania and Jeruselem - making the once unlikely-scenario of three straight World Cup qualifications, a feat that the nation has never managed, more likely than not.

Despite the lower caliber of the opposition, Curtis Steeling was not taking any chances with his side, naming the same first-choice eleven he will likely bring to Ceni and Drawkland - Sheffield in goal, a back four of Svensson, Ynoa, Lindberg, and Van Dijk, a midfield consisting of Damian Bao, Elias Møller, and Nemanja Vesely, and a front three of Velasquez, Vorobyov, and talismanic striker Ansel Penbrooke. The decision paid off - Traffia defended resolutely, but although constant attacking play has never been manager Steeling’s strength, the front three had more than enough talent to poke holes in the opposing defense. It took just fifteen minutes for Eva Velasquez to find the unmarked Penbrooke with a brilliant cross that the Bishop striker couldn’t help but head home - and just fifteen minutes later, Elias Møller (who has sent a free kick off the crossbar three times these qualifiers) finally managed to score off a dangerously-placed free kick.

Buoyed by the news that the Isles of Avon had defeated Jeruselem, meaning that the Tigers would qualify with wins in their next two matches, the Tigers went into the half comfortably ahead. Curtis Steeling used the second half to substitute on Sophia Trevelyan, Georgia Rodrigues, and the enigmatic Jayson Herrera. While these substitutions absolutely made the team worse - Rodrigues in particular was very poor and the culprit behind Traffia’s goal - the Tigers remained comfortable, holding out for the full three points.

Where does this, combined with Darmen’s hard-fought draw against San José Guayabal and Jeruselem’s loss to the Isles of Avon, leave us? San Jose Guayabal remains comfortably on top with 38 points, with Jeruselem (34), Super-Llamaland (33), and Darmen (32) fighting for the second qualification spot. MD17 will see Jeruselem face Pays den Haut away, Super-Llamaland play Fampakania at home, and Darmen host Traffia. Although Jeruselem has a slightly harder task than the other two teams, it seems likely that all three will pick up three points. As for the final match of these qualifiers, Darmen will visit Fampakania - and the Tigers will try to take three points back from Jeruselem. This final match will be the most important of the qualifiers, with both teams fighting for a win and the assured qualification that comes with it. If the teams do draw, Darmen will need to rack up goals against Traffia to have a shot at overcoming Jeruselem, while the Tigers will be eliminated.

Still, despite such a critical match in the horizon, the Tigers will need to focus on the task at hand first, unheralded Fampakania. Anything other than three points, and we’ll be watching the World Cup from home next summer. But the Llamaneans have the talent to win these next two matches - we can only hope they deliver.

[Mattijana]

Wheels Fall Off For Mattijana, But 5th Still Likely

MFO Sport



Dusan Vukoja encourages his players during the 3-3 draw with Romaian

Just when we thought it was going well. Just when we thought the dark days of World Cup 78 were over. Just when we thought it was safe to go back in the stands...

...IT'S BACK!

Yes, after at least 3 articles saying how it seemed that Mattijana had sorted themselves out, the signature capitulation has returned. Having picked up 19 points from their first 9 matches, Dusan Vukoja's side have picked up just 4 from the 7 games played since and are winless in their last 4. After slightly more excusable defeats to higher-ranked rivals New Gazi and Soltsteed, Mattijana inexplicably lost 2-0 to one of the two sides who had not even taken a point from their other qualifiers and could only scramble a point against a side with a goal difference of -25.
Maybe it was just karma for mercilessly mocking those same sides for their outstanding ineptitude, but the surprise and disappointment of recent results is even more stark given the previously impressive nature of Mattijana's performances.
They have been defensively sloppy, the supply lines from the wings have dried up and Andreas Weiss, who seemed to be scoring almost at will in the first 9 games, has only scored 3 since the halfway mark.

Mattijana will probably finish 5th in the group. Platerdam, barring a dramatic goal swing, will need to win both their final matches and even if they do, a Mattijanan victory over Kecrazia will seal the mid-table obscurity they were looking for after a mediocre campaign in qualification for World Cup 78. Despite that original objective due to be fulfilled, it will come as a disappointment when they were well in the mix for a trip to Ceni and Drawkland after their first 9.

Dusan Vukoja should keep his job, but will be anxious to ensure that he first secures 5th and that Mattijana taste victory at least once more in their last pair of games. Another appearance at the Cup of Harmony is likely, so going into the tournament with some form, both individual and collective, will be hugely important for the Mattijanan manager and his team.

Kecrazia and Platerdam await. The former have underwhelmed hugely at the tournament and will probably finish 7th. Platerdam have impressed at times, but have also lacked consistency and will most likely end up 6th in the group. Both are beatable opponents and sides that Dusan Vukoja will be keen to distance his side from in the world's pecking order.

So who's actually through?

With just two games to go, many of the world's teams have already sealed progress to the finals in Ceni and Drawkland. Games in group 12, containing Mattijana, contains only a series of dead rubbers with both Farfadillis and Tumbra through. Yet with Tumbra taking a remarkable 8-3 victory against the group leaders, the fight for the pride of finishing top may yet continue with Tumbra just a point down and possessing a higher goal difference than the world number 2s.
Elsewhere, the majority of the world's top teams have all sealed their progress. Scottia (1) and Chromatika (4) will top their groups whilst Vilita and the Holy Empire are also in position to go through.
Surprise package Filindostan have lost ground on their rivals, with a 4 point gap opening up between them and 2nd placed Red Blackiland, but may still progress and have impressed hugely regardless of the final result.
Ethane have also punched above their weight, albeit only marginally. Barring a 6 point swing, they will finish top of their group and will probably do so by a healthy margin. Esportivan number 1s Brenecia are also through, most likely in top spot.

Electrum have been dominant in group 2, dropping only two points over their first 16 games. Meanwhile in group 7, South Covello, formerly Gregoryisgodistan have been the most defensively secure side in qualifying, conceding just three goals. Valanora, who have also earned a place in the finals having shipped the next-lowest title of 7.

In group 8, Nephara have also dropped only two points and will probably be joined by Eura, who need only two points from their final two games to mathematically guarantee their progress.
Eshan are the other side to have booked their place in the finals. They will, barring a miracle, finish second in group 3.

However with 30 places available at the finals in Ceni and Drawkland, only 11 have been mathematically filled. Having said that, a number of spots are on the verge of being taken. Mriin, Eura, Bonesea, Damukuni, San Jose Guayabal, Cassadaigua, Vilita, Turori, Cosumar and the Free Republics are all one or two points from going through, taking us to 21. Elsewhere, Abanhfleft, Red Blackiland, Pasarga, Nova Anglicana and Kalumba are also well-placed to progress.
So with only a handful of spots genuinely in the balance, things seem to be pretty settled. Keep an eye on group 10, where Mercedini, The Holy Empire and Abanhfleft are engaged in a three-way battle for the top. Group 15 also contains a 3-way fight for progress, albeit for 2nd. Jerusalem, Super-Llamaland and Darmen are the teams involved.

With Mattijana out of the picture, we'll soon be looking forward to the cup of harmony, as well as seeing how the qualification campaign has affected Mattijanan sport in general.

[Banija]

Final nail in coffin for Banijan World Cup Qualification hopes as they fall 1-0 away from home


Center Back Wasa Jawo looks on as the final whistle is blown in Lambdasia's shocking victory over Banija

LAMBDASIA- While we did not expect Banija to qualify for the World Cup, we expected the mathematical elimination to be a day away, in Matchday 17. Lambdasia is the second weakest team in the group, obtaining a record of one win, two draws, and 12 losses heading into this match. Banija clearly got carried away- they looked ahead to the looming match against Chromatika, and underestimated the skill and talent of their opponents. Even if Lambdasia are ranked 285, Banija could not simply go on cruise control against their opponents. That's exactly what they did, and Banija most deservedly fell, to make their quest for 3rd place in this group a little more complicated.

Banija has had great upsets in this tournament on home soil, with Chromatika and Eshan chief among them. But their away form has left a lot to be desired. They have now clinched a losing record away from home, now being 3-5 in matches played in a foreign country, with one more to be played away to Chromatika. While we have marveled at this team's home form, their inahility to replicate that sort of form and confidence in away matches, with the crowd against them, is the difference between why Banija is placed first among the non-qualifiers in Group 3, rather than being placed in a qualification spot.

This game was ugly from the start. Lambdasia's strategy was to park the bus- they wanted to win this game badly. This qualification campaign has been an all out disaster for them- losing 80% of their matches up to this point does not bring confidence among fans. But, against all odds, they were still playing with confidence and spirit. That shows full credit to the Lambdasia manager- guaranteed a bottom 3 finish within group play, they still came out here in search of points, rather than going through the motions.

This Banija has accomplished a lot in this cycle, and they've earned some well-deserved praise for what they've been able to do throughout this qualification campaign. They are in a good position to do well in the Cup of Harmony. They, however, would like to bring momentum to the Cup of Harmony, and this upset will do nothing towards accomplishing that goal. That said, this performance was embarassing. They probably thought that they could waltz on this field, get a couple of easy goals against a lower ranked opponent who has struggled, and put all their focus on Chromatika. That isn't how it works!

Regardless, Banija had 65% possesion, though almost every single shot was from outside the box. They packed it in, and found a defensive formula that worked against the Kadongo Kamu. They were extremely physical with Kiggwe Mavuto, who the offense is played through. They shut him down, and with Banija not able to operate through their man in the middle of the pitch, it was always going to be a struggle. Their goalkeeper, with 9 saves, also stood on his head today, and full credit to him.

Lambdasia only had one shot on goal. Naturally, of course, it went in. A beautiful curled cross from a free kick just from the edge of the penalty area, on the right side, was placed directly into the center, and a Lambdasian striker headed the ball into the back of the net in the 77th minute to give his side a 1-0 lead. Lambdasia was able to hold out for the final 10 minutes, and even though Muhumuza hit the bar in stoppage time, it was not enough. Banija's World Cup dreams, coupled with Eshan's 4-2 home victory over Buyan, were officially over. Chromatika and Eshan would be going to the World Cup Finals from Group 3, and Banija was in a distant third.

Banija has two games left. The possibility of finishing 3rd will be extremely tough for this squad, however, which is what made this game so important. First, they must travel to Chromatika. Chromatika has already confirmed that they will play their regular starters, in a revenge match for Banija's upset victory over them at Mugisha III Memorial Stadium. They will face the very best of the best of the #4 nation in world football, and I don't think that Banija stands much of a chance. Not only are they playing Chromatika on the road- but on the road with extra motivation? Our best hope for the Kadongo Kamu, while the chances of this are extremely slim, is that Chromatika, having already qualified for the world cup, doesn't go as full throttle as they've promised.

I'm already shaking my head writing this. I'm lying to myself thinking that.

Then, of course, is the final home game. They host Buyan. A couple of different streaks are up for grabs in that match. If Banija beats Buyan, they will have defeated every single team in Group 3 at least once. That will be an impressive accomplishment that will show Banija can truly compete against anybody. That will also mean they have finished world cup qualification with 8 home victories in a row. And, of course, it will be an opportunity to send off quite a few players. It will be the last time Matthias Muhumuza, John Katumba, and Alan Namara all put on the national shirt, as all three have announced their retirement from international football at the close of World Cup Qualifiers. Banija will want to send them off on a high note.

Even with Banija officially eliminated, there is still a lot to play for, and a lot to tune in for in these final two qualifiers. We wish this team the best of luck as they fly to Chromatika for what looks to be the most impossible of impossible tasks.

[Valanora]

Tobias followed Gladerial as the Elder Goddess walked through the manor grounds and towards an area where Tobias and his family would hold afternoon picnics, with the both of them taking a seat. Tobias waited for Gladerial to speak, as it was she who had said that they needed to talk, but a thousand questions were going through his mind, as he was still not entirely sure what had just transpired. All he knew now was that the sense of dread that had been so profound just minutes ago felt like it was completely gone, though the natural serenity he felt was also somehow absent. Were these events somehow related or was he merely taking extra time in transitioning back to his normal state?

"You are right to have questions, it is not every day that not one but three beings of my realm traverse into the material plane. It was unfortunate that you had to stand before Draven, his quarrel was not with you but with me, however he had been banished from our plane of existence due to his destructive nature. Yanwë does not tolerate needless desctruction and Draven's conquests never sated his desire to consume the living, to rob the light out of the world. It might have been a consequence of his creation, though we will never likely know the truth given his punishment now."

"Who is Yanwë, why did they appear as a dragon, and why did Draven call us your kin?"

"All excellent questions. Yanwë is not really a dragon, but that is the form that he prefers to take, given his position. Various peoples across the Cosmos have different names for him, but he is most often referred to as The Winged God of Wind or The Guardian of the Cosmos. I simply know him as my father, thus his intervention in this accord. As for Draven's statements regarding you being as kin, that is a matter that is perhaps the root of all the current situation. Simply put, the Elves of Valanora are not native to Silverymoon, as your legends have said, they are not even native to this realm of existence. The Elves of Valanora are my sons and daughters, you are to me as I am to Yanwë, and as Draven could not strike at me, he struck out at my children. Where did you get your sword?"

"My sword?" Tobias looked at the half broken blade and hit that stayed loosely gripped in his hand, its runes still lit a vibrant blue but slowly fading. "It was given to me by my uncle Zeratul, he said that it was my father's and it was given to my father by their father. Zeratul however did not say where it came from, only that it had long been in our family since as far as memory could serve. Why?"

"The reason those runes activated is because you summoned Yanwë to protect you, though you did not know you were doing it, as it was once his own sword. You stood against the very physical representation of what you would call evil or all consuming darkness, against all odds that you would be able to succeed, still you stood defiant and ready to die for your people. It is not the first time you have done this, it is why Elune choose you to be her champion, though that is another matter entirely. Yours is a line that was meant for great things, as it descends from my bloodline. While that is true of all Elves, yours is the strongest, the most pure, the ones destined for this very moment. This entire situation was foreseen thousands of years ago and everything you have ever experienced was meant to lead to this. Draven has been defeated but his interference is still present."

"How so?"

"Your people have heard the Calling, though false as it was, and are ready to depart the material plane, though they do not realize it. You know of the Gray Havens, the place where your "heroes" go to rest after they perish, where Elune keeps her champions. The truth is, that is merely part of our realm, it is where you have came from, it is where you go when the Calling happens. Millions of your people have heard it, your clergy have prepared them for the journey, even if they believed your words and heeded them to the best of their ability. They are ready to leave and will need to leave. Elune was the one who was keeping the two realms merged together and without her in this universe, the merger has began to fade and fall out of alignment. If they do not leave now, it may be thousands of years before they will have the chance to do so again, as I can already see the thought running through your head."

"Then you know that I already accept the task."

"Yes, I know. I also know that Tobias Raynor is not your true name, it is Faeron, Guardian of Silverymoon. As Elune before you, you will have to safeguard this realm, even so, your people will be leaving. Those who choose to stay will have to know it will be hundreds, if not thousands of years before you will be able to realign the realms, as ascension and understanding your new powers will take time. However, you will become like me, like Yanwë, where time and reality are not what you are used to. What might be hundreds of years for the people of the material realm, may seem but a day for you. This was always meant to be, it is the reason the elves were brought here in the first place, to bring about you becoming the guardian of this world. With creation though, things do end, and Valanora will never be what it once was, those who have come to know it as home outside the elves will inheirit its lands, its culture, its values, and will have to uphold them for all the world to see that it was not just the elves who made Valanora what is, even if some do remain."

[Natanians and Nosts]

Natanians and Nost solidarity

Natanians and Nosts has drawn with Akatsurai and granted the their first point at the WCQ.The team struggled to score,or at least properly play.Akatsurai kept a solid midfield stopping Natanians and Nosts from advancing,without even trying to go at counter-attacks.
The game was very boring,quite ugly to see actually,a tem that had been going quite well stopped by a Helium-like team(i.e. inert).The manager is suffering pressure from the press and specially from the confederation for the recent results,runours from very bad tongues say that his head may roll,but remembering they're just rumours from unreliable sources and said by bad tongues so don't expect them to be true and be surprised if they turn so.

[Eura]

OOC: Continued from this RP.

Hours passed before the chattering clacking of helicopter blades seemed to cease. Amelia was able to get some sleep when that time passed. Unfortunately it transpired that it was her teeth making the noise that actually annoyed her due to a combination of cold and nervousness. The chopper landed somewhere well over the border where they would stay overnight. She couldn't sleep for the first time since she'd been sent abroad. Everyone else was awake though, a gaggle of teases making her wish she could take her mind off imminent potential doom. Nepharim soldiers played cards and smoked in front of a most definitely not looted television playing some terrible network show from their home country. Several of them wandered off to join a bit of an unofficial party when a few Euran Marine's struck up a tune, making good use of an electric guitar, drum kit and small amp which were not in terrible condition. Like the television, they were definitely not looted. Amelia finally gave in and went over to watch as dozens of momentarily, gloriously happy and free soldiers enjoyed the music, singing along gleefully to an old rock song. At nine they were ordered to return to their bunks and did so without much of a fight. The distant intermittent thunder of heavy artillery reminded everyone of the importance of sleeping while you could.

She woke up to the same music but not the same performers, pounding out from helicopter mounted speakers on the nearby landing strip. Contrary to her experience of what was supposed to be a winter evening last night, it was confusingly warm and sunny. A whole squad of Euran Army Engineers jogged past in nothing but shorts. Shorts in a Terranean winter! 'Fuckin' Sammie climate, mate. What a weird concept.' Private Orson always seemed to be on the same wavelength as Amelia except for his sweetly obvious kid like crush on her and those wacky conspiracy theories about cannibalistic Euran commandos. Speaking of, that's when the Marine Commandos turned up. They were better equipped, better at playing badass and downright better looking. Amelia was envious that they made soldiering, that bloody nightmarish profession she'd somehow got herself into in a bit of early twenties rebellion gone wrong, look so very easy. Orson was just plain terrified. 'Oh fuck mate, clear up your gear!'
'Calm down Orson, we're allies. You know that right?' She expected the special forces operators to bypass their group without a word, but the leader of the group stopped by them a moment. 'Morning all. Ready for a bit of action I hope?' Greeted by a cheer, the operator smiled. 'Good to hear. Looking forward to working with you. Those of you who haven't fought yet, remember - watch your corners, take plenty of water, and don't forget where you're fighting. This is their turf. See you out there.' Amelia discreetly turned up her nose at him as he walked away. What a cocky bastard.

Preparations moved on swiftly and before they knew it Amelia and her colleagues were on their way, treading across the tarmac in nearly full kit alongside some of the Euran Army squads they were attached to, as well as the Marine Commando's leading the assault in their small, nimble helicopters as opposed to the bigger ones the grunts would ride in. She couldn't really call any of the other Nepharim anything but colleagues. None of them were friends bar Orson and maybe Marion, the Corporal who somehow manged to grow up looking like an abnormally ugly bulldog. Not that Amelia would ever tell that nutter she was anything less than an Amazon warrior if she wanted to live for long. The powers that be of Nephara's esteemed army had for some reason opted not to deploy their own helicopters for this operation. 'Most likely so they don't lose the few birds we've got when we get killed' the ever pessimistic and paranoid Boyle commented. Instead the Euran's had fully incorporated the Nepharim squads present into their roster for this mission including their method of transport, Euran Defence Systems UH-52 Falcon helicopters, the reliable medium-lift workhorse of the Euran military. The pilots were chipper. 'Welcome to Euran Army airways, this is your captain speaking, its fifteen degrees outside and it'll be a short hop to our destination, where you will be served with the finest Sameban bullets and RPG's. If you could please keep your seat trays up during take off, it would be much appreciated!' The ten or so Nepharim on board heckled the pilot as he smugly chuckled away.

All of the fun and games ceased in Amelia's mind the moment that Falcon lifted off the ground in sequence with seven aircraft of the same type, while six smaller and more veteran UH-35 'Sparrow' helicopters took off first and led the way, their Marine Commando's and naval specialists hanging their legs out of the doors. Music blared out from the same speakers she'd been on the receiving end of when she woke up from a cruelly brief sleep at dawn. Stirring vintage rock music as helicopters head into battle? How fucking cliche. The Euran's were famous for their blockbuster cinema and you could tell why. Inside the cabin of her Falcon, Amelia couldn't help but dwell on what fresh hell awaited her in this Sameban coastal city not so far from the massive sprawl of Aspel, like an outgrown suburb. Was it going to be militia and armed civilians desperately flinging themselves at the invaders before a rapid surrender or Republican Guard and heavy armour packed tight into booby trapped streets? The intelligence packs handed out before the mission suggested something in between which meant uncertainty, and in turn an unhealthy dosage of anxiety. This wasn't the first time that Amelia wondered how she had managed to get this far in the armed forces of all things without washing out on mental grounds. Smells began to fill the air. Burning oil and rubber. The music was cut. Both doors on the chopper began to rattle as it descended slightly and powered through unnatural, pitch black clouds. Houses, shops, roads, all were alarmingly close below. The call came through and now it was all getting pretty real. 'Charlie Two, one minute out. Don't slouch on the rope, you won't live to regret it.' Amelia checked her rifle and her harness, followed up with an anxiety sweep over all of her equipment. There was no going back to get wasted with old friends from Brinemouth now.

[Vilita]

Tide Rising in Galacticos Index but is the Future in Jeopardy?

If the rumors are to be proven true, the Turoki Tide's superstar duo of Cavuna Aquafek and Polaox Torerun have been named to the Galacticos Index final seven and will be under consideration for selection as the Winner of this seasons grand prize. Of course the Tide duo will be in very strong company with such names as Andrew Arrowsword and Bryger Tidesson of Cosumarite side Real Azuris also expected to be in the consideration. Whether or not Aquafek or Torerun ultimately claim the final prize they have already been named to the team of the season and will certainly go down in historical lore on the Island of Turoki having been instrumental in bringing both the Turoki Tide and the Vilita National Team to the top of the sporting world.

While it is certain that the present is in capable hands for both the Tide and the Vilita National Team, the lack of Vilitan players on the Galacticos Junior Index has left some to wonder what lies ahead in the future for Vilita. While regional rivals Cosumar, Audioslavia and Farfadillis placed many onto the Young Galactico Index, the Vilitan League was entirely absent. Was it a slight by the organizers? Or has the win-now attitude employed by the Vilitan National Team and Vilitan-League Clubs that has resulted in the World Cup Title and the collection of all Five UICA trophies over the past three cycles stunted the growth of future talent?

Indeed, just 7 players under the age of 20 have participated in the National Player pool for Vilita or Turori over the past cycle, led by former Tropicorp FC defenseman Jirak Trikala who has since signed for Jungle Strike FC. However, there hasn't been much buzz around any of the youngsters to this point and certainly none would have been worthy of consideration alongside high performers such as Real Azuris midfielder Bryger Tidesson. Perhaps only time will tell if the talent in the Vilitan League is just developing in the shadows or is truly flawed moving forward.

Through the first half of World Cup 79 Qualifying, only Trikala had appeared for the Vilita National Team as an under-20 player, starting at central defense in the 3-2 victory over Savojarna on Matchday 5 in place of Jirijii Januaa.