All-Banija Sports Magazine

by **Banija** » Mon Jan 22, 2018 10:24 am

The Banijan Soccer League - Season 5

Jinja City FC & Istria City FC create separation at the top as league looks likely to come down to the wire

Standings after Matchday 32

Team Name                  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Jinja City FC            32   22   7   3    63   24  +39    73
 2 Istria City FC           32   22   6   4    67   19  +48    72
 3 Busukuma Athletic Club   32   20   4   8    79   40  +39    64
 4 Hoima Warriors           32   19   7   6    58   30  +28    64
 5 Herzegovina City FC      32   18   6   8    48   23  +25    60
 6 Herzegovina Phoenix      32   18   6   8    50   31  +19    60
 7 Kitara AA                32   13  11   8    32   27   +5    50
 8 Bunyoro RSC              32   14   7  11    45   39   +6    49
 9 Busembe Timberwolves     32   13   7  12    37   38   −1    46
10 Umbazi Metropolitan SC   32   14   3  15    37   41   −4    45
11 Isipongo Flash           32    9  11  12    40   41   −1    38
12 Mynda SC                 32   10   8  14    40   45   −5    38
13 Rukunbi FC               32    9   7  16    31   51  −20    34
14 Lwanga Lions             32    8   9  15    31   51  −20    33
15 Askatasuna FC            32    9   5  18    35   47  −12    32
16 Aissa United FC          32    8   8  16    46   61  −15    32
17 Bwubanza City SC         32    6  12  14    36   48  −12    30
18 Busukuma Force           32    6   9  17    30   57  −27    27
19 Lakiska SC               32    7   4  21    34   75  −41    25
20 Dukuma SC                32    3   7  22    27   78  −51    16

Individual Matchdays

The shine started to come off a little on the Herzegovina Phoenix, as they finally fell after winning 6 games in a row, losing 1-0 away from home to Bunyoro RSC. Bunyoro RSC, who got off to a sizzling start but then struggled, was at the beginning of the season what the Phoenix are now- a squad that is decidedly average, finishing in the top half but nothing more, but then going on a hot streak, getting a few upsets, and getting some attention.

That was the nightcap game. Elsewhere, four members of the Super 5 clubs won, as the Hoima Warriors were the only ones to succumb to the pressure of their opponents, as they could not manage to break down a tough Rukunbi FC defense away from home. Istria City FC's 3-1 victory away from home was significant in the fact that Girma Asmelash had his first career hat trick. Not a majorly significant matchday, but still- another step towards the end of the tunnel.

It was not the best week for the Super 5 clubs, who were all playing non Super 5 clubs. While Istria City FC and Herzegovina City FC both had relatively simple 2-0 wins at home, the Hoima warriors struggled to a 1-0 victory at home, needing an 82nd minute goal from Wenceslaw, the Cosumarite defender, on a header off of a corner kick. Their strikers could not break down the Force, but it took a goal from the big bodied Wenceslaw to break the deadlock there.

Jinja City FC struggled to a scoreless home draw with Kitara AA. Kitara AA have had an interesting season so far. They've averaged exactly one goal per game, but their defense is better than their offense. They play close, tight and physical, not blowing anybody out of the water, but not being blown out either. With 23 year old goalkeeper Sago Nagatomo having an excellent season between the sticks, this is a team capable of playing with anybody.

Lin Moon had a wonderstrike to secure his squad's 1-0 win over Mynda Soccer Club. He chested a ball from approximately 25 yards out, and rocketed a volley into the upper right hand corner. The stadium exploded as he sprinted into the stands for a raucous celebration for what could have been the goal of the year. Elsewhere across teh league, the Hoima Warriors took care of business, breaking down Kitara AA away from home for a 1-0 win, while Istria City FC was upset by Umbazi Metropolitan SC, who won 2-0 at home against the league leaders. Demetro Laterza, the Juvencus forward who just won the Cup of Harmony and who has had a quiet season, had a first half double as they seemed to shock their opponents at the kickoff and then pack it in the back.

In the biggest game of the day, Busukuma Athletic Club defeated Herzegovina City FC by a score of 1-0. The Capitol club had this great victory over the two-time defending league champs, as Saah Desta scored the game winner in the 52nd minute. The ageless wonder at striker is continuing to have a career year at age 36, as Busukuma Athletic Club looks to race towards an UICA spot in their manager's final season.

A week of two Super 5 matchups! In the afternoon time slot, Busukuma Athetic Club won a Super 5 matchup for the second straight week, as they won 1-0 once again, but this time, away from home against Istria City FC, who suffered their second straight loss in league play. 29 year old Schottian defender Oliver Scott delivered the blow this time, scoring in the 33rd minute off of a punishing counter-attack, while the back line was able to hold for the remainder of the match.

In the nightcap, Jinja City FC won a thrilling match with the Hoima Warriors, as they won by a score of 2-1 against the Hoima Warriors. This was a big game for Hoima, to announce that after two seasons away, they would be back in competition for UICA spots. Jinja City FC, on the other hand, had different ideas. Devontan striker Noah Lamont Hill scored the opener, and while Julian Turner responded, it was Tokpah Ba who scored the match winner. Another big win for the team chasing a league title.

Matchday 29! With no big matchups, there was another big upset, as Herzegovina City FC fell to Rukunbi FC, becoming once again yet another victim of giant slaying. Amanuel Bsrat scored the game's lone goal for Rukunbi FC, scoring in the 33rd minute. Super 5 clubs took care of business elsewhere, as the Warriors won 3-0, Jinja City FC won 2-0, Busukuma Athletic Club won 3-1, and Istria City FC put up a shocking 6 goals in Lakiska, as they stampeded through the Islands side.

Dukuma SC also had just their 3rd win of the season, as they defeated Bunyoro RSC by a score of 2-0. Ivanildo, the Amazonestan winger, scored twice, while Dukuma SC celebrated their third win. While they are on track for their 3rd last place finish in the last 5 seasons, and their 5th straight season of finishing in the bottom 3, this win was a good win. Everything came together, the defense held, and they could hold their heads high.

Another Istria City derby! Won, yet again, by Istria City FC, who used two early goals to cruise to a 2-0 victory over Rukunbi FC in that derby. Elsewhere across the league, Busukuma Athletic Club won by the same score, away to the Phoenix, when Ansu Cisse and Toyuwa Sall each scored once for the visitors. Herzegovina City FC was able to win, cruising to an easy 3-0 win over the Busukuma Force, while Jinja City FC won 1-0 away fro home against Bwubanza City SC, and the Hoima Warriors winning 2-0 away from home against the Lwanga Lions. This meant that all the member of the 'Super 5' won this weekend.

A couple of revelations came from Busukuma Athletic Club today as well. Marbue Okeke, the 35 year old captain, has announced that he will retire from the sport at the end of the season. Now, of course, all eyes are on Saah Desta. Many thought that he would retire after this season as well, but with the year he's having, he could choose to play one more season. He will be 37 next season, so we'll have to wait and see on what he decides.

This was not a good day to be a member of the Super 5. In the early timeslot, both the Hoima Warriors and Jinja City FC had home draws. Phineas Antwell, the Cosumarite winger for Bwubanza City SC, scored a late equalizer in Hoima as it looked like the Warriors would have an easy 1-0 win. In Jinja City, Timberwolves captain Julio Leal scored the opener, and though the Warriors quickly responded, they ended up splitting the spoils at 1-1. Busukuma Athletic Club then lost by a score of 3-1 on their home field to Bunyoro RSC, who have long been forgotten about since their sizzling start.

The only two wins from the Super 5 clubs this weeend were Istria City FC winning 3-0 away to the Busukuma Force, while Herzegovina City FC won 1-0 away to Kitara AA. Which means, that from the Super 5 clubs, they won both of their away matches this weekend, but could manage only 2 points from 3 matches at home. An interesting statistic, but what can you do against a team of veterans like Bunyoro RSC? Nathaniel Yisake & co. are not going to be intimidated by any environment, and they will be extremely happy with this result.

And matchday 32! Jinja City FC, in a big game with the two-time defending champs, took all three points from this game when Noah Lamont Hill converted a penalty in the 63rd minute. Elsewhere across the league, Istria City FC took care of business, winning 2-0, while the Hoima Warriors won 3-1 away from home. Busukuma Athletic Club was once again upset, as they lost 2-1 away from home to a mid-table side.

Now looking at the table. Jinja City FC have 73 points, while Istria City FC are one point behind at 72 points. Then, of course, there is the first gap. Busukuma Athletic Club and the Hoima Warriors are level at 64 points for 3rd and 4th respectively, where Busukuma Athletic Club edges out the Hoima Warriors on goal difference, having a +39 goal difference compared to the Warriors +28 goal difference, thanks to their league leading 79 goals. Right behind them, the two Herzegovina clubs are tied at 60 points a piece, though Herzegovina City FC has the advantage in goal difference, +25 to +19. Then there is a 10 point gap between 6th place Phoenix and 7th place Kitara AA.

So, with only 6 games left, we know who will be in the top 6. Do we know the order? No. But we know a few things. For one, barring an epic collapse, we know that Istria City FC and Jinja City FC will be playing in UICA play. While they could still be caught by the Warriors or Busukuma Athletic Club, that is unlikely, and for them to be caught by either Herzegovina club is close to impossible with this little time left. So pencil them in both to be on the tube next summer.

What else do we know? Dukuma SC will likely finish last place. Down 6 points with 6 games to go, it will be a tall task for them to get the 7 points required to pass their Busogan rivals, let alone Lakiska SC even getting any points at all making that task so much harder.

RBSA Cup Semifnals- Herzegovina City FC win Herzegovina Derby emphatically while late Saah Desta goal sends Istria City FC to first ever RBSA Cup Final

Semifinals
Herzegovina City FC 4–1 Herzegovina Phoenix
Istria City 3–2 Jinja City FC

And we are down to two! We had a pair of exciting matchups for this semifinal draw- the Herzegovina derby, where both teams are level on points in the league after 32 games, and a matchup betwen the clear cut top two teams in the league, played at Istria City. We were in for two very hyped matchups between teams close in the standings, and especially a rivalry match to boot.

The first game was Herzegovina City FC against the Herzegovina Phoenix, played at the home field of Herzegovina City FC. The two-time defending league champions reasserted their dominance in Herzegovina City, as they defeated the Phoenix by a score of 4-1. Aaron Aiza scored on a free kick in the 22nd minute, and he scored in open play on a counter-attack in the 41st minute for the hosts to take a 2-0 lead into halftime.

Herzegovina CIty FC were not done. Both Ennis Leishman & Guillermo Madruga scored before the 70th minute mark, while Chase Pershing scored in the 79th minute to put the Phoenix on the board. Kolt Freegan said that this match was 'personal' afterwards. "While we havent' had as much league success as we would like, know this- we are the best team in this city. The Phoenix will not surpass us, and we will finish ahead of them in the league while winning this tournament."

The other matchup was hyped up because of the seasons these two clubs were having. Jinja City FC and Istria City FC, seperated at the top of the table by a measly point, while the next closest club was 8 points away. This match lived up to its billing. Lin Moon scored a 24th minute goal to give Jinja City FC a 1-0 lead, though Yitebarke scored in the 44th minute to level the game at 1.

The second half was intense as well. Jinja City FC took the lead once again, as Maximiliane Purcell tripped over his own feet trying to cover Noah Lamont hill on a corner kick, who was all alone and head the ball into the back of the net to give his squad a 2-1 lead in the 57th minute. However, Purcell made up for his mistake, as Maximiliane Purcell scored on a header in the 72nd on a corner kick to tie the game at 2. The Istria City FC was getting into it, and they exploded when 36 year old captain Gregory Hatzis scored the winner in the 79th minute. They won, 3-2, and will be in the Final.

The Final will be Istria City FC against Herzegovina City FC. A rendition of the traditional rivalry between the City of Istria and Herzegovina City generally in sports, as Istria is Banija's largest city while Herzegovina City is the regional capitol and Banija's oldest city. This is best personified in the fierce rivalry between Loyola-Istria and Northern Moravica in the NSCF, but it will take center stage for one week at the Stadium of the Restoration. As Moravican fans of both teams go down to the capitol for that matchups in 8 weeks time, we'll see which team is most prepared to win that tournament.

by **Banija** » Tue Jan 23, 2018 5:28 pm

End of season for Banija's Regional Leagues as four league champions crowned

Corizova United celebrate winning the Northwestern League

BUSUKUMA- And that's a wrap! Banija's 4 regional leagues have finally wrapped up their first season as official members of the RBSA pyramid, and that means we have four league champions. Each champion will qualify for the Serie B Champions Cup playoff. The RBSA, alongside every other association to enter that competition, will have three spots in that competition. The four champions will enter a four team playoff, with the format finally decided by the RBSA.

The four champions will be randomly drawn into a knockout playoff match. The first round will be two separate two-legged affairs, with the matchups randomly drawn by the RBSA. The two winners of the two-legged affairs will qualify directly to the Serie B Champions Cup. What about the third team? Well the two losers across two legs will met in what is going to be officially titled the Serie B Champions Cup Playoff. It will be a one-off affair at the Stadium of the Restoration, and there must be a winner, meaning the match can go to extra time and, if necessary, penalties.

Of course, the three champions that get out of this will then get to represent their leagues on the world's grandest stage, and it will be yet another opportunity for Banija to have their competition play some of the world's best. And the opportunity and exposure, of course, will be good for individual players as well, as it could be their only chance to get some exposure during what is expected to be a packed transfer window, especially for Banijan clubs.

The clubs, after matchday 42, had an emergency vote to make the 4 team playoff an 8 team seeded playoff. The vote failed, with 33 clubs voting in favor, and 15 voting against. It needed a 3/4s majority to pass, as it was such a late challenge. Next time around, of course, there will be two seasons, and an 8 team format for the league champion for each of the two seasons to consider. Those voting in favor of keeping the 4 team format wanted to make sure that 'a league championship was not watered down, and that winning the league simply meant that much more'.

Northwestern League

Northwest League                      Pld   W    D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Corizova United                     44   31   4   9    89   24  +65   97
 2 AFC Kosactus                        44   27   10  7    70   26  +44   91
 3 Tezirbu Foxes                       44   24   12  8    67   33  +34   84
 4 Suwawa FC                           44   24   7   13   73   43  +30   79
 5 Barmos United                       44   20   12  12   61   37  +24   72
 6 Eastern Moravica Football Club      44   18   11  15   45   46   −1   65
 7 Jaribga Soccer Club                 44   16   10  18   56   52   -4   58
 8 Slobochia Bears                     44   12   14  18   37   52  −15   50
 9 Koszagard City                      44   12   7   25   40   75  −35   43
10 Nezrouch Rovers                     44   11   9   24   31   66  −35   42
11 Tripoli Foresters                   44   9    5   30   28   84  −56   32
12 Taramazna United                    44   7    5   32   25   84  −59   26

Corizova United was the best and most consistent team all season, and they are deserving league champions, earning 97 points over the course of their 44 games in league play. They had the best goal difference of any team in any of Banija's four regional leagues- having a whopping goal difference of +65. How did they manage that? Well, it was the simple fact that they were able to put away opponents. They had both the second best defense and offense across the four leagues, showing that this team has great balance, and has to be a serious threat in the upcoming four team playoff.

The most shocking result from this league, however, has to be Suwawa FC. Leading the league at the halfway point, they had a large and sudden dropoff. They played like a midtable side for the rest of the way. Earning 49 points through the first 22 matches, they only managed 30 points in the second half. What happened? Their defense started to leak. While the offense stayed the same, they allowed 28 goals over the latter half, while only allowing 15 in the first. With an older goalkeeper, look for Suwawa FC to try to replace Venzi, as his failures in net clearly effecting this team's ability to stop, well, anybody.

Lower Coastal League

Lower Coastal League                  Pld   W     D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Capitol City Football Club          44   33    4   7    78   27  +51   103
 2 Kabakono City                       44   26   11   7    90   39  +51    89
 3 Zakuta City                         44   24   12   8    60   30  +30    84
 4 Baleweye Football Club              44   24   10  10    69   32  +37    82
 5 Ogbordu Diamond Football Club       44   20   10  14    62   47  +15    70
 6 Djoro Athletic                      44   18   11  15    52   45   +7    65
 7 Nsade United                        44   18   11  15    43   43    0    65
 8 AFC Akwadua                         44   13   11  20    42   55  −13    50
 9 Kitara Athletic Society             44   10   11  23    33   65  −32    41
10 Kwadama Dojo                        44    9   11  24    36   58  −22    38
11 Mamari City                         44    8    5  31    26   87  −61    29
12 Dimbogourou Sporting Club           44    3    9  32    22   85  −63    18

Capitol City Football Club are the champions of the Lower Coastal League. Can we be surprised? The Busukuma side that got the furthest in the RBSA Cup rampaging through league play, earning the most wins out of any regional league side, which is 33. How did the third capitol side do it? Well, they simply put it in another gear in the second half. While they were in the mix in the first half, they were able to separate themselves in the second half, having 19 and 1 draw in their last 22 league matches.

Going on a streak like that really opens up a gap that no other club is going to be able to catch. Kabakono City, who scored 90 goals in league play, the most across the four regional leagues, is walking away empty handed, finishing a shocking 14 points behind their opponents. Another team to talk about here is Dimbogourou Sporting Club. They won only 3 games over the course of the entire season. A -63 goal difference is unacceptable, and look for Andrew Less to get some more talent on this roster in the upcoming transfer window.

The Northern League

Northern League                       Pld    W    D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cerenus United                      44   31   10   3    79   25  +54   103
 2 Garixas City                        44   27    8   9    72   30  +42    89
 3 Nanami Dragons                      44   24   12   8    66   35  +21    84
 4 Igulu City FC                       44   21   14   9    68   37  +31    77
 5 Okakameb City                       44   20    6  18    43   43    0    66
 6 Duntho Sporting Club                44   16   11  17    53   52   +1    59
 7 Koksho City                         44   15   14  15    49   52   −3    59
 8 Luguyala Patriots                   44   15    6  23    33   53  −20    51
 9 AFC Okahavi                         44   13   10  21    41   54  −13    49
10 Gadive City                         44   9    10  25    34   67  −33    37
11 Thayaferu United                    44   7    10  27    22   65  −43    31
12 Selekawe Knights                    44   6     9  29    23   71  −48    27

And now time for the Northern League! Cerenus United ran away with this league, earning 103 points and having a 14 point gap with their next closest rivals, Garixas City. 21 year old Phumelele Stofile made a name for himself, starring in the second half of the season. He scored 19 goals to lead the league in scoring from the midfield, and 14 of those were in the second half of the season. Look for him to get signed by a BSL team going forward into next season, as a number of central midfielders in the BSL are indeed aging.

A team to look out for next season from this league has to be Okakameb City. Going 11-4-7 in the second half, able to turn a lot of those losses in the second half into draws, they will look to take the next step next season. They have a young core that is returning, and if they can take that step forward, they can be dark horses to take that throne from Cerenus United in season 2.

Southern League

Southern League                       Pld   W    D    L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Hawabark Boulders                   44   28   10   6    79   23  +56    94
 2 Sororo City                         44   27    8   9    88   38  +50    89
 3 Pumbasa Bears                       44   23   14   7    59   29  +30    83
 4 Dodoma City SC                      44   24   10  10    59   30  +29    82
 5 Umbazi FA                           44   24    9  11    73   46  +27    81
 6 Boufaya Ravens                      44   18   10  16    54   47   +7    64
 7 Busemlu Park SC                     44   16   10  18    60   62   −2    58
 8 Abomfa United                       44   16    8  20    40   49   -9    56
 9 Mukegara Warriors                   44   13    8  23    42   53  −11    47
10 Amaku City FC                       44   11   10  23    42   66  −24    43
11 Kigagana Mountaineers               44    5    8  31    25   97  −72    23
12 Byakado City                        44    2    9  33    21  102  −81    15

The Boulders, who are quite possibly the youngest team in the Southern League, have won the league, in the closest league race out of all of them. This was the only one that went to the final day. Going into the final day, the Boulders were up in the standings, 91 points to 89, over Sororo City. The Boulders, however, were able to win 2-1 at home over the Kigagana Mountaineers, which was able to clinch them the league without worrying about Sororo City's results. Sororo City lost their final game, falling by a score of 3-2 to Busemlu Park SC at home, as they went down 2-0 within the first 15 minutes and never recovered.

Elsewhere across the league, we must look at Byakado City. The worst team in the regional league system. They only managed 15 points across 44 games, which means that they averaged almost 1/3rd of a point per league game. It gets worse- they were the only team to allow 100+ goals, allowing 102 across the season, for a stunning goal difference of -81. The season was a disaster in every way, shape, and form. As soon as the season mercifully ended for them, Muteesa Mbogalay was fired, and we expect them to clean house entirely.

That's a wrap from the regional league system! The next time we'll cover any of these teams is when the four champions convene for their playoff matches. Now, teams will be licking their wounds, and starting to look towards the transfer market, as they try to position themselves to improve.

by **Banija** » Wed Jan 24, 2018 9:04 am

The Banijan Soccer League - Season 5

Banija's four UICA spots finalized as season once again comes down to the final day

Individual Matchdays

The nightcap today was a massive match between Jinja City FC and Istria City FC. 1 and 2 in the standings, respectively, with just a single point separating the two squads in the standings, it was the highest rated match on television for the season. It was a fierce battle, with the winner of the match taking a giant leap towards their goal of lifting the trophy. It was a back and forth, high octane match between two squads desperate to win the league title. Jinja City FC, trying to win their first league title since season 2, and Istria City FC, trying to win their first league title in general. Jinja City's fans were urging them to do what they could to garner some separation in this match.

They, however, could not break down Istria City FC's back line. The center back pairing of 23 year old Maximiliane Purcell and 24 year old Noah Geteye stood tall and firm under the back breaking pressure. Lin Moon had the best opportunity in the 53rd minute, when he broke through on a cross and headed it towards goal, and he beat the keeper, but could not beat the post as the ball clanked off the post and rolled harmlessly away for a goal kick. Neither team could stake a claim on the league title on this day, as they split the spoils at 0-0.

Elsewhere, there was a Super 5 match between the 4th and 5th placed teams, which was also a big match in terms of who would get Banija's final spot in the Globe Cup. Herzegovina City FC, the two-time defending champs, won a tough game, 1-0 away from home, Abajan attacking midfielder Jackson Oglobelo scored in the 63rd minute, and that was enough for Herzegovina City FC to win the game.

Matchday 34, as the race towards the end of the season gets closer and closer. Herzegovina City FC win in dominating fashion, a 5-0 victory over the Lwanga Lions. Coupled with Istria City FC's 1-0 win over the Hoima Warriors, Herzegovina City FC have now passed the Hoima Warriors, and are in 4th place. Their victory over the Lions was highlighted by the fact that five different players scored. Aaron Aiza, Jackson Oglobelo, Ennis Leishman, Guillermo Madruga, and Elias Abate all got in on the fun here.

In terms of the race for the title. Istria City FC had a grueling 1-0 win over the Hoima Warriors at home in a Super 5 matchup. Yitebarke, not shockingly, was the difference in this match. Jinja City FC maintained its one point lead, however, by grinding out a 1-0 away victory over Askatasuna FC. Clarice Easter, of all people, the 27 year old center back, rose up and headed the ball home in the 85th minute. Manager Alexander Bumba was pumped after the win, saying that this was the kind of game that "champions must win. We are doing everything right, and we will finish this season to come home with the league title."

Herzegovina City FC is now going on a tear. For the second straight week, they won by a score of 5-0, this time winning away from home against Bwubanza City SC. Aaron Aiza and Elias Abate both had a brace, while Ennis Leishman scored a penalty in the 88th to get their fifth and final goal. Whatever seemed to be plaguing them in the middle part of the season seems to have gone away. They're putting it together now, and while it's too late to chase for the league title, it most certainly is not too late to earn a spot in UICA competition. And, of course, a third straight finish in the top 4.

Both Istria City and Jinja City won 2-0, keeping pace with each other as they head towards the final day of the league season. What about elsewhere in the league? Well, Busukuma Athletic Club won their third straight match, a 2-1 home victory over Umbazi Metropolitan SC, while the Hoima Warriors, after losing two in a row, won a match, meaning all the members of the Super 5 won this weekend. Mynda SC, with their ownership situation in serious flux, won an away game, which is a testament to the mental strength and fortitude of that team.

Both Istria City and Jinja City won their third straight matches, with Istria City winning 2-0 at home against Bwubanza City SC, while Jinja City FC won emphatically, with a massive 4-0 victory away from home against Bunyoro RSC. Lin Moon, the Chromatik international, had a hat trick for Jinja City, while YItebarke and Asmelash both had goals for Istria City FC at home. Bwubanza City SC winger Phineas Antwell announced his intention to leave the club for the Lwanga Lions at the end of the season. The Cosumarite will join the Lions, who, after having a promising start, are struggling to finish, as they have just lost their fourth in a row. There is no agreed fee, but it is rumored to be $1 million.

What about elsewhere around the league? The Hoima Warriors won by a score of 1-0 against the Phoenix, for their second straight win. Herzegovina City FC won their fourth in a row, grinding out a 1-0 win over the Busembe Timberwolves. Who scored the lone goal? None other than the captain himself, Alaji Kabbah. With Busukuma AC's win, this marked the second week in a row when the Super 5 clubs went 5-0-0. They have separated themselves for this season at this point, and we'll have to see which four of the Super 5 will be in UICA play this season.

This was a crazy matchday. Out of 10 games, a stunning 6 ending in draws, the most in a single weekend this entire season. But this was a massive day for the league title race. Istria City FC, who entered the day a single point behind Jinja City FC, having 82 to Jinja City's 83, However, in their away game against the Timberwolves, they were not able to finish. While Yitebarke scored in the 19th minute, they could score again, and the Timberwolves threw everything they had at them in the second half. While the defense held, and held, they could not hold forever. Brendon Ediomgi, the 32 year old Abajan striker, scored in the 83rd minute to clinch a 1-1 draw.

This was huge news for Jinja City FC. They moved to 83 points, but as they did not win, Jinja City FC had a chance, in their final home game of the year, to take a commanding lead. If they won for the fourth straight week, at home against archrivals Aissa United, who are a bottom half of the table club, they would be overwhelming favorites. The crowd was loud, and they were off. However, a stunning result happened here. Needing a draw to keep pace, but wanting a win so all they'd need is a draw next week to wrap things up, this team went forward from the word go. However, what everyone seemed to forget was that in rivalry games like this, you can throw out the standings. It was going to be a war on the pitch for 90 minutes.

But the Battle for Hangaza's soul did not go according to plan. Aissa goalkeeper Yonas Tolla, the former Banijan international, had the game of his life. He had 12 saves, many of them diving in all directions. He had a pair of fingertip saves against Lin Moon. Sia Fall hit the crossbar on a free kick from 27 yards. Jinja City FC could not finish, and they pushed more and more players forward. This was a fierce rivalry, and Aissa United wanted nothing more than to spoil the title prospects of their much bigger rivals. And then it happened. Gabriel Teoflyos, the 32 year old left midfielder, scored in the 71st minute. Kizza IX Stadium went silent, while the 5,000 Aissa United FC fans lost their minds. They parked the bus for the last 20 minutes, and had a 1-0 win.

Aissa United manager Gregory Banis, who is a native of Jinja City, ranted about his archrivals. "The arrogance of Jinja City FC was on full display today- we were deserved winners. They thought they could just waltz in and win the league title against us? They were wrong. This is a scrappy team, a hungry team, and we roll over for nobody, least of all Jinja City. We have knocked them down a peg to second place, and if they don't win the league because of us, well, then so be it. Pride comes before the fall, and that could not be more true for Jinja City FC." Jinja City papers erupted after those papers, and fears crept among Jinja City FC fans- could they lose the league on the final day for the second straight season?

With flexible scheduling, there was an exciting slate of games for Matchday 38. The first 8 games all schedule at 3 PM local, while Istria City and Jinja City FC, as the only two teams left in the title race, both schedule for 8 PM. Busukuma Athletic Club and Herzegovina City FC had already wrapped up their spots as third and second in the league, and Buskuma Athletic Club reached the goal of 80 points in a season, as they beat Rukunbi FC 2-0 at home to finish with 82 points. That means manager Sarh Sarr won his final six games in charge, and had an elaborate retirement ceremony with an extended halftime dedicated to it. After 16 great seasons atop the club, he will retire knowing that he brought this club to be a regular fixture in UICA competition, qualifying yet again for the Globe Cup.

However, then there was what we were waiting for. The final day. The simulteanous kickoffs of Istria City FC v. Herzegovina City FC, and Jinja City FC @ the Isipongo Flash. Due to Jinja City FC's shocking home loss to their archrivals, both Istria City and Jinja City were level with 83 points, but Istria City had the advantage with goal difference, having a +53 goal difference compared to Jinja City's +45 goal difference. Both games did not feature much action in the first 45 minutes, meaning the final 45 minutes of the season would be crazy and chaotic.

Jinja City FC, away from home, opened the scoring, in the 53rd minute against the Flash. Lin Moon had scored on a header, and in this moment, Jinja City FC looked as if they would go home with the league title. But then in the 64th minute of that match, Lin Moon scored again to give his squad a 2-0 lead over the Flash. They had that game wrapped up, and more than a few people were nervous in Istria. But, captain Gregory Hatzis scored on a header in the 70th minute of the Istria City match, to give his side a 1-0 lead over Herzegovina City FC, who had won their last 5 matches. With that crowd going crazy, they scored again, in the 72nd minute, as Yitebarke finished and Istria City FC led 2-0. This was Istria City's to lose now, right?

With the roaring crowd at Istria City FC, Kolt Freegan did not want to watch his opponents celebrate a league title in his last match of the season. Herzegovina City FC was able to score in the 82nd minute, courtesy of Banijan international Elias Abate, and all of a sudden, the party stopped in Istria. It was nervous cheering, as many Istria fans could not bear to watch, while Jinja City FC fans switched to this game. Could Herzegovina City FC deliver the title to Jinja City FC? They had their opportunity in the first minute of stoppage time. Aaron Aiza was able to get behind the defense, and on a one v. one with the goalkeeper, chipped and beat the goalkeeper. However, captain Gregory Hatzis sprinted back and cleared the ball off the line right before it crossed, and that was that. The game went on for a shocking 7 minutes of stoppage time, as Istria's celebrations after their goals had dragged on, but the final whistle was finally blown. Istria City FC were finally champions.

Fans stormed the field, and there was chaotic scenes of celebration. Istria City FC was fined for the pitch invasion, but nobody gave a damn. They were league champions, and were savoring the moment. For Jinja City FC, it was the second straight season where they were in the title race on the final day, they won, but found the title ripped from them by events that were beyond their control. This one will hurt even more than last season. They finished with 86 points both season, a healthy chunk of points to get second place. This season, however, Jinja City FC has to be angrier because while they won their last 6 matches of the year last year, and simply didn't control their own destiny, that is not true for this season.

Jinja City FC controlled their own destiny for much of the season. Two major missed opportunities- a home game on Matchday 33 against Istria City FC, where they dominated the game but could not finish. They peppered the goalie and defense, had majority possesion, but could not beat the keeper. And then, what hurts the most was their loss on the penultimate day, to their archrivals no less. It's bad enough to lose to your archrivals. It's worse to lose to them at home. And it stings even more if that is the reason you didn't win the league. This team had opportunities and has the talent, but they wilted under pressure in the greatest moments, and could not win the league. Two straight seasons with 86 points is a stunning record of consistency for Alexander Bumba, but it has to be frustrating to not come away with a league trophy either season. It is back to the drawing board for Bumba, as he will go the transfer window to improve his squad to ensure that next season, it is his club that lifts the league trophy.

Final League Standings

Team Name                   Pld   W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Istria City FC           38   26   8   4    75   21  +54    86 - LEAGUE CHAMPIONS. QUALIFIED FOR CHAMPIONS CUP.
 2 Jinja City FC            38   26   8   4    72   26  +46    86 - QUALIFIED FOR GLOBE CUP.
 3 Busukuma Athletic Club   38   26   4   8    94   42  +52    82 - QUALIFIED FOR GLOBE CUP.
 4 Herzegovina City FC      38   23   6   9    65   25  +40    75 - QUALIFIED FOR GLOBE CUP.
 5 Hoima Warriors           38   21   9   8    64   36  +28    72
 6 Herzegovina Phoenix      38   21   6  11    59   40  +19    69
 7 Bunyoro RSC              38   18   8  12    57   47  +10    62
 8 Kitara AA                38   15  13  10    41   37   +4    58
 9 Umbazi Metropolitan SC   38   17   5  16    46   46    0    56
10 Busembe Timberwolves     38   15   9  14    44   44    0    54
11 Mynda SC                 38   13   8  17    45   52   −7    47
12 Isipongo Flash           38   11  12  15    46   49   −3    45
13 Aissa United FC          38   12   9  17    51   63  −12    45
14 Rukunbi FC               38   10   8  20    34   58  −24    38
15 Askatasuna FC            38   10   7  21    44   58  −14    37
16 Busukuma Force           38    8  10  20    37   67  −30    34
17 Lwanga Lions             38    8   9  21    34   67  −33    33
18 Bwubanza City SC         38    6  13  19    36   60  −24    31
19 Lakiska SC               38    7   6  25    36   83  −47    27
20 Dukuma SC                38    3  10  25    29   88  −59    19

Review of Old Predictions

1. The RBSA shouldn't panic. The Super 5 clubs will finish in the top 5 spots.
Verdict: Correct

It simply made sense that the Super 5 would pull away, and once again, they have. This league is becoming top heavy, as it is the 3rd straight season of the same clubs in the top 4(though differeing orders within the top 4), and the second straight season that the Hoima Warriors are in 5th. It is clear who the dominant clubs are in Banijan soccer, though we expect that as the league develops, other clubs will be able to compete at some point.

2. Herzegovina City FC will not qualify for UICA play
Verdict: Wrong

To be honest, our prediction was good until the final 6 matchdays. Herzegovina City FC decided to go on a 5 match winning streak in a blaze of glory from matchdays 33 to 37. During this win streak, they outscored their opponents by a whopping score of 16-0. At the most crucial point, they played their best soccer of the year, and that is why they are in UICA play once again. Their only blemish was on the final matchday, as they lost to Istria City FC, though they will get a rematch in a few weeks time at the Stadium of the Restoration for the RBSA Cup Final.

The other part of this story, of course, is the collapse of the Hoima Warriors. They lost two straight Super 5 matches on matchdays 33 and 34, losing 1-0 to both Herzegovina City FC and Istria City FC, respectively. What was supposed to be a story about how Jan Cassallerus, in his final season, finally put the Warriors back into UICA play, it is now a story about how they could not finish. They will have to look again for a manager on the international market, and spend money on players, as they try to get back into the top 4.

3. Busukuma Athletic Club will have over 100 league goals- but won't break Herzegovina City's single season record of 108 goals
Verdict: Wrong

This could not have been more wrong. Busukuma Athletic Club did not hit the century mark in terms of goals- they led the league in scoring with 94 goals, but were well off the mark when it came to scoring 108 goals over the course of an entire season. It was always a tall task, but they slowed down the scoring rate towards the end of the season. Still, they finished strong, winning their final 6 matches to emphatically claim third places.

4. Lwanga Lions will finish mid-table
Verdict: Wrong

Well, we were wrong about this. They were a mid-table squad for the duration of the season- until the final 6 games. They could not finish, losing all of their final 6 matches. They are a young team with a young manager, of course- they have the youngest player in the league, 17 year old winger Josef Lawerenz, from the Equestrian States. The Lions are a team in a state of transition, and Vincent Wilson has preached patience. They have made some good strides from last year, and they plan to be active on the transfer market to help move up the table. They've already made a move to sign the Cosumarite winger Phineas Antwell from Bwubanza City SC, and we'll see if they can bring a few more players to Banija for next season during the transfer window.

Ultimately, we were wrong on 5/6 predictions this year. You know what that means? We are glad we did not put money on any of these predictions, or else we'd have to be selling our houses. But what a season, right? The BSL is now done, but there are now a couple of games left. The Serie B Champions Cup playoff, those 3 games, and then the RBSA Cup Final. With the last two to happen at the Stadium of the Restoration, it is likely that the RBSA will use the national stadium to launch what would admittedly be a longshot bid to host a UICA final.

by **Banija** » Wed Jan 24, 2018 10:34 pm

Herzegovina City FC win a wild RBSA Cup Final to close an entertaining season of the Banijan Soccer League

Captain Alaji Kabbah lifts the RBSA Cup Trophy after his final game in uniform

RBSA Cup Final @ The Stadium of the Restoration in Busukuma, National Capitol Region, Banija
Herzegovina City FC 4–4 Istria City (4–4 AET) (3–2 pen.)

BUSUKUMA- Last season's champions and this season's champions lined up at the Stadium of the Restoration for the RBSA Cup Final. These two played a thriller on the final matchday of the season, when Istria City FC won a nailbiter 2-1 to win the league on goal difference, over Jinja City FC. Herzegovina City FC was on a 5 game winning streak before that one, and they were looking for revenge, for momentum going into what is going to be a very interesting summer, and, of course, they were looking to earn their second trophy of the season, after winning the Kabaka's Cup, which is the Banijan SuperCup, to kick off the season.

The last match of professional club soccer for this season was a thriller. Back and forth, high-paced, intense- these clubs, natural rivals because of the cities they represent, are developing what is going to be known as quite a fantastic rivalry. Aaron Aiza opened the scoring in the game, when in the 16th minute, he took a pass at the edge of the 18, beat captain Gregory Hatzis on the dribble, and fired home a shot into the upper right corner from about 15 yards. The prolific goal scorer celebrated, and so did the half of the crowd dressed in blue, as Herzegovina City FC took a 1-0 lead.

The men dressed in orange, however, were not going to go away quietly. They wanted to win this won badly, become the first Banijan squad to win a league-cup double. In the 28th minute, just 12 minutes after the opener, star striker Yitebarke scored on a header from a cross, from just 6 yards away, to draw the game level at 1. In the 43rd minute, Yitebarke, going towards goal, was fouled by Lazlo Kearney. A free kick was given by the referee, and Girma Asmelash, the 28 year old attacking midfielder, smashed the ball home to give Istria City FC their first lead of the night, to make it 2-1 going into halftime.

This game was revved up in the second half. Herzegovina City FC scored in the 47th minute, right after the start of the 2nd half, with Elias Abate scoring on a cross from Aaron Aiza. The score was then 2-2, and Herzegovina City FC was not done. They wanted desperately to win this game, and they would not stop. Banijan international Boimah Ba scored in the 57th minute, and the 2-1 lead that Istria City FC had taken into halftime had vanished completely. Herzegovina City FC now led for the 2nd time, with a 3-2 lead, and all the momentum.

Istria City FC, however, were league champions for a reason. They knew how to win in situations like this. And who would they turn to in their moment of need? None other than Assefa Yitebarke. Yitebarke scored in the 64th minute, putting away a rebound from 6 yards off of a free kick that Asmelash had taken that had hit the crossbar, and all of a sudden, the game was 3-3. Goalies and defenses be damned- this was a star studded clash, all the way to the Final.

Istria City FC took the lead once more, in the 72nd minute. Right midfielder Addis Anwar was able to score on a header off of a cross, and the league champions now led, by a score of 4-3. And similar to the match 2 weeks ago in Istria, this game would come down to the wire. Herzegovina City FC pushing forward, with Istria City defending. But they would not be able to stave off Herzegovina City FC for long. New West Gallian striker Ennis Leishman tied the game in the 86th minute, making it a stunning 4-4.

The two teams went through a very boring period of extra time, with both teams simply exhausted, and they went to penalties. In a game where each team scored four times, it would come down to nerves and goalkeepers. Delbin Kasekende showed why Herzegovina City FC signed him from Dukuma SC before the season. He guessed the right way on every single penalty, and saved the last three penalty kicks in a row. Yitebarke and Asmelash converted 1st and 2nd for the league champs, but Kasekende saved the shots of Anwar, Senay, and Abeselome, in a row.

Now, of course, that will put Herzegovina City FC into two separate competitions- the Cygnus Cup Winners Cup, for winning this competition, and the Globe Cup, for finishing in spots 2-4, as they finished 4th in the league. And Istria City FC will "only" go into one competition this season, though of course they are Banija's representative in the world's most prestigious club competition, in any sport- the TakilQuip Champions Cup.

Serie B Champions Cup places decided

The four regional league champions were randomly drawn against each other for a pair of two-legged ties, with a coin flip to decide who plays at home first. The winners of the pair of two-legged ties qualify for the Serie B Champions Cup. The two losers go to a playoff, which is one game at the Stadium of the Restoration that must have a winner. The winner automatically qualifies for Banija's 3rd and final spot in the Serie B Champions Cup.

For the first round, the qualifying round, Capitol City Football Club of the Lower Coastal League was drawn against Corizova United of the Northwestern League, with Corizova United scheduled to play at home in the first leg, and away in the second leg. In the first leg, Capitol City Football Club showed why many considered them to be the best club throughout all of the 48 clubs in the regional league system, as they scrapped out a 1-0 win away from home against Corizova United. The ageless wonder, Sarjo Ceesay, scored the game's lone goal, in the 67th minute.

They went home, leading 1-0 both on aggregate and on away goals. So they had the advantage going into their home stadium. So what did they do at the Capitol Grounds? They parked the bus. They pulled every back, and Corizova United did not get off a single shot in the penalty area. It was a gritty win, and they do not normally park the bus, but Capitol City Football Club won the two-legged tie on aggregate and punched their ticket to the Serie B Champions Cup, while Corizova United had to go to the Playoff.

The other semifinal was much more exciting. Cerenus United was to host the Hawabark Boulders in the first leg of their two-legged tie. Interestingly enough, Cerenus United won this tie 2-0. The champions of the Northern League had Phumelele Stofile score in the 33rd minute, and striker Xolile Kani score in the 72nd minute. The score was everything they wanted. They did not allow any away goals, and they scored twice. They would just have to hold on away from home.

But when they went to the South, to Hawabark, the script flipped. The 103 points that they had garnered over the course of the season did not matter. The Hawabark Boulders needed to be sharp in the back, and not concede. However, they were the best defense in the entire regional league system, allowing just 23 goals in league play. They stayed tight at the back, while pushing forward, finally breaking through in the second half. Teenage striker Kabir Jobateh, all of 19 years old, scored in the 62nd to cut the deficit to one for the Boulders, and Lafi Kabba scored in the 79th minute to make the tie level at 2. With the crowd rocking, they went to extra time.

The Boulders, having the momentum and the initiative, went for the win. Cerenus United was simply trying to force penalties, but that would not work. Al Qurijan wide midfielder Suhayl Mostafa Ahmed scored the match winner in the 112th minute, volleying a cross towards the center of the pitch, and the Boulders were able to celebrate punching their ticket to the Serie B Champions Cup.

Qualifiers
Corizova United 0–1 Capitol City Football Club   0-1   0-0
Cerenus United 2–3 Hawabark Boulders    2-0   0-3(AET)

There was now one last spot, and only two teams left. The two losers from the qualifiers would go to the Playoff Final, and this was Corizova United and Cerenus United. It was the first non-BSL club soccer match in the history of Banija to get 10 million television viewers, showing that this sort of format for the last format is a money maker for the RBSA and its member clubs.

Corizova United took the initiative at first, as they pushed forward for the majority of the first half. While Cerenus United hit the post against the run of play, largely, Corizova United looked like the better side for the first 45. Interestingly enough, as Cerenus United earned 103 points throughout the course of the season, compared to Corizova United's 97 points(though, of course, different leagues). The two squads, however, went into halftime at the Stadium of the Restoration, tied at 0.

In the second half, the play opened up a little bit more. Corizova United attempted to break the deadlock, with Makang Marenah hitting the post in the 53rd minute, and Bubacar Senghore doing the same in the 59th. Cerenus United, however, was going to try and win this game against the run of play. And they almost did. A ill-advised foul gave them a dangerous free kick from 23 yards. And who stepped up to take it? 21 year old midfielder Phumelele Stofile. He launched it into the back of the net, to give the Northern League champs the advantage over their Northwestern League counterparts.

Now, of course, Corizova United was pushing everyone forward. They did not want to be the only league champion to miss out on the spoils of the Serie B Champions Cup. Players pushing more and more forward, and it was a wonder they didn't leak and allow any counter-attacks. When it got to an 87th minute corner, goalkeeper for Corizova Ayman Jawdat Sultan went up for the corner kick. It was, however, the 34 year old captain Baturou Saidykhan who would smash home the header to tie the match at 1, and send it to extra time, and eventually, penalties at that same score.

This penalty shootout went on forever. And naturally, who did it come down to? Each time took 10 penalties each, and they were tied at 7. Ayman Jawdat Sultan, the Al Qurijan #1 goalkeeper, scored on his penalty, and Joas Belendia, the Cerenus United goalkeeper, skied his penalty, and that was that. Corizova United celebrated, as they would qualify for the Serie B Champions Cup, while Cerenus United, who earned 103 points this season, will not have international competition this season.

RBSA Executive Chairman Adama Sowe said that the Association was a 'huge fan' of this format. "It was always tough to create a fair format for this- we have three spots in the Serie B Champions Cup, and yet, we have four eligible leagues. How do we make four into 3? How do we fit a square peg into a round hole? While there's no perfect way to do it, this way worked. It created excitement, TV ratings went up, and it made sure the emphasis was placed on winning the league, which is why we did not allow any runner-ups to participate in a playoff. Minimize the games played, and yet, you have to earn your way into the Serie B Champions Cup on the field, and have to defeat another league champ to get in. What more could you want?" He said that they will go forward with this format for the 'foreseeable future'. He simply laughed off a question on whether or not Banija should establish promotion/relegation between the regional league systems and the Banijan Soccer League.

Playoff Final @ The Stadium of the Restoration in Busukuma, National Capitol Region, Banija
Corizova United 1–1 Cerenus United (1–1 AET) (8–7 pen.)

Matthias Mutebi plea deal: $3 million fine, forced sale of Mynda SC to BSL for $20 million

MYNDA, AKSUM- Remember how Matthias Mutebi, the controlling owner of the Mynda Soccer Club, was under investigation by Banijan authorities, for an unscrupulous loan from Blackwing Bank of Freeport? Well, his testimony at the Lukiiko did not go well. He told reporters and members of the Lukiiko that he was the victim of a "witchhunt" from the traditional political establishment. The mainstream center-left and center-right parties destroyed him, but the parties on the extreme right supported him the entire time.

The investigation got serious, however, when the Attorney General was planning to go big- they were going to formally indict him of financial fraud. This is a serious charge that can earn you between 5 and 10 years of prison, and as everyone knows, nobody wants to spend any kind of time in a Banijan prison. He entered into fierce negotiations with the Attorney General's office, and ultimatly, they reached a plea deal.

He would be forced to sell the related business to the Banijan Soccer League for 50% of the most recent valuation, which the club's total assets were most recently valued at $40 million. Meaning, of course, he sold the team for $20 million NSDs. He paid $3 million NSDs to the state, and accepted a lifetime ban from owning professional sports squads within Banija. In return, he was able to only serve 2 months in prison, and plead no contest.

Meaning, of course, that this team is for sale on the open market. They are valued at $40 million, but the league is looking to sell the team for at least $50 million, with the difference between the $20 million they spent to buy the team and the sale price split evenly between the rest of the owners. We'll see who is on the market to buy this team, as it is rare that the opportunity to buy a BSL team comes up at all.

by **Banija** » Wed Jan 24, 2018 11:52 pm

The Banijan Soccer League - Season 5

The Accolades

BUSUKUMA- For the first time, the RBSA is doing an awards ceremony to honor the best individual performers. A number of players will be recognized or their performances over the season, and of course, multiple players will be allowed to give speeches at this black tie, white tuxedo event.

Top BSL Goalscorers
Rank      Name             Nationality             Team Name             Goals Scored
1      Lin Moon            Chromatika             Jinja City FC             29 - WINNER OF BSL GOLDEN BOOT
2      Saah Desta            Banija               Busukuma AC               25
3      Assefa Yitebarke      Banija               Istria City FC            23
4      Aaron Aiza         Equestrian States       Herzegovina City FC       22
5      Chase Pershing        Brenecia             Herzegovina Phoenix       20
6      Ansu Cisse            Banija               Busukuma AC               19
7      Bruno Rodrigues     Amazonesta             Bunyoro RSC               18
8      Demetro Laterza     Juvencus               Umbazi Metropolitan SC    16
9      Sia Fall              Banija               Jinja City FC             15
10     Kawsu Mboge           Banija               Aissa United FC           14

BSL Assist Leaders
Rank     Name            Nationality               Team Name            Assists
1      Aaron Aiza       Equestrian States       Herzegovina City FC       19 - WINNER OF BSL SILVER BOOT
2      Ansu Cisse          Banija               Busukuma AC               17
3      Girma Asemlash      Banija               Istria City FC            16
4      John Katumba        Banija               Hoima Warriors            13
5      Sia Fall            Banija               Jinja City FC             12
6      Toyuwa Sall         Banija               Busukuma AC               10

1st Team All-Pro
Manager of the Year: Yafet Kahsai. 51 years old(Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club).
Formation: 4-4-2 Diamond.

Position     Name            Age      Nationality               Team Name            
GK        Delbin Kasekende   29         Banija                Herzegovina City FC - WINNER OF BSL GOLDEN GLOVE
RB        Enzo Capristan     35        Amazonesta             Kitara AA
CB        Wenceslaw          25         Cosumar               Hoima Warriors
CB        Yafet Fekadu       32         Banija                Herzegovina Phoenix
LB        Idowu Kwandani     36         Banija                Hoima Warriors
CM        Daniel Asres       28         Banija                Jinja City FC
RM        Aaron Aiza         26       Equestrian States       Herzegovina City FC
LM        Elias Abate        28         Banija                Herzegovina City FC
RS        Lin Moon           26       Chromatika              Jinja City FC
CF        Saah Desta         36         Banija                Busukuma AC
LS        Assefa Yitebarke   23         Banija                Istria City FC

MVP Voting(2 reporters per team for a total of 40 votes)
Aaron Aiza- 25 votes
Lin Moon- 9 votes
Saah Desta- 4 votes
Assefa Yitebarke- 1 vote

Aaron Aiza, the Equestrian States midfielder for Herzegovina City FC, is the Season 5 league MVP.

by **Banija** » Sat Jan 27, 2018 2:14 pm

Independent Banijan Hockey Federation forms announces diaspora hockey league initiative

Muhoozi Kutombo, the first Chairman of the Banijan Hockey Federation

ISTRIA- In a rather surprising move, the Olympic Committee of Banija has decided to spin off their own hockey division into an independent governing body, the Banijan Hockey Federation. To be headquartered in Banija, it is to be the new governing body for hockey in Banija. There were rumors that this was going to happen after this nation had a surprising run to the quarterfinals of the most recent World Cup of Hockey- only to fall to Savojarna, the host nation and the eventual champions of that tournament. Hockey has always been a divisive sport within Banija, as it is not a 'native' sport- played mostly by immigrants from the Royal Kingdom of Quebec. There is no professional hockey within Banija, at least, at this point.

Banijan law governing professional sports leagues require that for team sports leagues, the sport needs an independent governing authority- they cannot be under the governing authority of the Olympic Committee, which governs all sports within the country. In college hockey, there is a Moravica regional conference between the 6 schools that in the region that sponsor varsity hockey- also happening to be the only six schools in the entire country that offer varsity hockey. But is there a groundswell of supportive for hockey in Banija, enough to the point where you must invest in a professional hockey league? Well, the Banijan Hockey Federation came out with a relatively novel idea.

The inaugural chairman of the organization, Muhoozi Kutombo, a native Banijan, explained the idea. "We believe that there is room for hockey to grow within Banija" said Muhoozi Kutombo. "We have college hockey, and with the Winter Olympics coming up, alongside our most recent finish within the World Cup of Hockey, I believe that we have to work hard to ensure that hockey can remain on the scene. So, while going through quite a complicated legal process, which required speaking with the governing bodies of 6 different countries, as well as getting approval from the Banijan Collegiate Sports Group, we are officially starting a Banijan semi-professional hockey league. It will be called the 'Greater Banijan Hockey League'.

We have gotten the approval from all the relevant authorities to make this happen. We are going to have the Greater Banijan Hockey League- involving those at home and the diaspora. The league will consist of two divisions- the college players from the Moravica Conference, and the International Division, the division made up of teams in the diaspora. We have contacted the hockey associations of nations with cities with large Banijan diaspora populations, and have gained their approval to have teams under the extraterritorial jurisdiction of the Banijan Hockey Federation. For our first season, we will be sticking within the region, Atlantian Oceania, to control travel costs. There will be 6 franchises established.

The Stallionograd Mountaineeers, out of Stallionograd, Equestrian States. The Cascadia Lions, out of Cascadia, 95X. The Rosaria Knights, out of Rosaria, Eshan. The Goldstaff Bengals, out of Goldstaff, Cosumar. The Little Istria Tigersharks, playing in the Little Istria neighborhood of TV City, in Qasden. And, lastly, the Frion Kaboomers, in Frion, Frion, Farfadillis. All 6 cities have major Banijan diaspora communities. This will connect Banijans to the diaspora, and the diaspora back home. Each team will have a requirement, also approved by those associations, of a majority of the roster being eligible to play for the Banijan national men's ice hockey squad.

This is an innovative idea- it is new, and it is something that we believe will work. It will not be easy, but this is our plan to grow hockey in this country, and our country's hockey fans are likely to get behind it." It was an ambitiious plan launched by the Banijan Hockey Federation, and we'll have to see if they can follow through. It will be tough, but if they can pull it off, it will certainly be a model for other nations to follow who are like Banija- where the sport is more popular among Banijans abroad than it is at home.

by **Banija** » Sun Jan 28, 2018 10:03 pm

Who are the 12 teams?

Muhoozi Kutombo, the first Chairman of the Banijan Hockey Federation

ISTRIA-The newly formed Banijan Hockey Federation has created the Greater Banijan Hockey League, which will combine current Banijan college hockey with hockey within the diaspora. The argument that college sports can be mixed in is that the league will technically file as "semi-professional", so that the universities are not required to pay their athletes. And, of course, for now, with revenue projections for the league all over the place, the diaspora teams will not be fully professional.

International Division

Rosaria Knights
Location: Rosaria, Eshan
Stadium: Regional Transit Arena, capacity of 18,000

And who else to start with but the Rosaria Knights? The Knights play in the capitol city of Eshan, who is also a member of Atlantian Oceania. Most famously, the Regional Transit Corporation, a Banijan company, is headquartered in Eshan. Now, of course, how is a company still Banijan if headquartered in Eshan? Well, it started as a taxi and [url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boda_boda]boda boda[url] service here in Banija. However, they expanded, and began operating the ferry between the North and South Islands in Busoga, and wanted to expand abroad, to expand their profile.

As a company from a nation like Banija's, they would not be able to expand without access to first-world technology. With expansion abroad, the profits started to flow in. So while probably the single most powerful company in Banija, it is headquartered in Eshan. Rosaria was picked because they have much better access to high-quality personnel, high-quality technology, and, most importantly, capital. They trade stocks in Rosaria, and from there is how they have been able to expand to so many countries.

It is natural, then, that in a diaspora league, there is a team sponsored by the Regional Transit Corporation. Rumored to be the first team to sign up for this competition, the Rosaria Knights, with the RTC's backing, look to be a force in this league. The only club that is technically not fan owned, the team has the support of the Echani national government. Echanis are playing for this team as well as Banijans. The Regional Transit Corporation built a multipurpose stadium, the Regional Transit Arena, that they own for this team to use. It is also to be used as a community convention center and concert venue.

Cascadia Lions
Location: Cascadia, 95X
Stadium: Cascadia Coliseum

The second team we will look at, of course, is the Cascadia Lions. This team will be operated by the Puritan Latter-Day Temple of Cascadia. They are, of course, in communion with Banija's state religion, the Puritan Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. They are located in Cascadia, 95X, one of Banija's neighbors in Atlantian Oceania. The Banijan diaspora community in Cascadia wants to use this as an opportunity to ensure that their children retain their culture, and, of course, to help educate 95Xers about their homeland.

The Lions chose their name off of the national animal of Banija, and the holiest animal in the Puritan Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints- the only animal that is not allowed to be hunted. The man serving as the Team President, elected by the temple's congregation, is Isaiah Woodward. They said that this will operate as a 'community hockey team', and all members of the community would get involved. However, of course, they will strictly maintain the rule where at least half of their players must be eligible to compete for Banija in the Winter Olympics.

What else is there to know about this team? The Lions are not building their own arena, they are playing in the city's professional sports arena, the Cascadia Coliseum. The temple will be paying the team's lease fees. Of course, we don't expect them to get between 15-20,000 per game, but still. Playing in a large, state of the art arena could be key come playoff time.

Can the Lions come out winners? It depends on how they will connect with the community. If they can encourage Banijans to support hockey, and also encourage 95Xers to get behind the team, then they have great potential. But if they cannot encourage 95Xers to get behind the team, they will be playing in a stadium filled to 25% of capacity. While 5,000 per game would not be a bad attendance at all, the sheer size of the stadium would leave the atmosphere with much to be desired.

Goldstaff Cocodragons
Location: Goldstaff, Cosumar

The Goldstaff Bengals are a team of the Banijan diaspora community in Cosumar. They will be playing in Goldstaff, a city in Southwest Cosumar. It is a mid-sized city. Have you not heard of the city? Then you've heard of Crawford, a large port city, about an hour away from Goldstaff. The Bengals, of course, will be playing in a local arena.

The climate of Goldstaff is very similar to the climate of the Banijan mainland. It is semitropical, thanks to the nearby presence of the Everlong RainForest. The Rain Forest is a protected forest in Cosumar. One of the unique aspects of this inland city, is that Goldstaff is home to an animal unique to Cosumar- the feral cocodragon.

The cocodragon is a species of dragon that is unique to Cosumar. Unlike most dragons, it does not have the fire-breathing ability that is unique to the species- so though they can fly, they tend to act like most of the rest of the reptiles. There is a large species of Feral cocodragons in the Goldstaff area, so much so that the team will be named after them, as a nod to the host city.

Frion Kaboomers
Location: Frion, Frion, Farfadillis
Stadium: Frion Center, capacity of 3,700

And now, of course, to the three teams in Banija's neck of the woods, the Glorious Southwest. And, first, of course, we go to Farfadillis. A nation with a decently sized community of Banijans, the Banijans in the city of Frion, in the state of Frion, have decided to form a team to join the Greater Banijan Hockey League.

Frion, known as the only area in Farfadillis with cold weather, is pretty much the host of the entire hockey community within the nation. It is a very small community, and the Kaboomers are looking to expand the sport in the city, though not so much the country, by marketing to both Banijans and locals alike. However, with not much of a base for hockey in the country, the talent base that this team will draw from will be... shallow.

Many locals, however, are excited at the prospect. Members of the diaspora are teaming wtih Frion to build a multipurpose ice hockey rink, named "The Frion Center", with a permanent capacity of 3,700. This will be in use for the Kaboomers, and also in use for community ice hockey events, and the establishment of a youth ice hockey league in the city. They are hoping to establish maybe some sort of pipeline for talent, and, of course, they will stick to rules regarding a majority of players must be Banijans. They will, however, hope for a number of Farves on the squad too, to appeal to the local fanbase.

Little Istria Tigersharks
Location: Little Istria, TV City, Qasden

And for the fifth squad, and the second in the Glorious Southwest- the Little istria Tigersharks. Little Istria is an ethnic Banijan neighborhood in TV city, a major city in Qasden. Qasden is Banija's neighbor, and Banija played their Cup of Harmony games in the country in the tournament's most recent edition. The LIttle Istria neighborhood looks like a Banijan outpost- lots of Banijan food, there's even a Puritan LDS temple in the center of the neighborhood.

Little Istria is located in Northwestern TV City. This is one of the most confusing aspects of this league, as Qasden already has an officially recognized league that is indeed part of the Hockey Champions League. Of course, the Banijan Hockey Federation got permission from all the relevant governing authorities, but they are now the third hockey team in a city that has the TV City Monarchs and the TVC Clouded Leopards, both playing under the Qasden umbrella in their major domestic ice hockey league.

Of course, in a city with two other fully professional hockey teams, and this being an ethnic neighborhood squad, this will be even tougher than usual to get traction. Of course, with a hockey tradition, there will be support, but they will probably draw entirely from the neighborhood, making this the only team in this division that is likely to have a team that is 100% consisted of players eligible to play for Banija in the Winter Olympics.

Stallionograd Mountaineers
Location: Stalliongrad, Equestrian States

And last but certainly not least, our closest neighbors, the Equestrian States. Stallionograd, home to so many of Banija's Winter Olympians, will also host the 6th semi-professional team in the Greater Banijan Hockey League. In the shadow of the Harmony Mountains, where many of Banija's winter athletes will make camp before they fly off to Electrum for the Olympic Games.

Staillionograd is a city that is a mile above sea level. Very cold, and there is plenty of support for hockey. Stallionograd had the highest foreign ratings of the Banija vs. Equestrian States group stage game in the previous World Cup of Hockey, where the large portion of Banijan fans made it a huge rivalry game, at least in these parts.

Stallionograd looks to have good support both from locals and Banijans. There will be hockey talent, and they will be able to draw from a local talent base that is at least decently deep. With hockey and other sports to draw athletes from, they will be able to develop a strong stable of talent here.

Moravica Collegiate Hockey Conference

The Moravica Collegiate Hockey Conference consists of the 6 hockey playing schools in the Kingdom of Banija. They are the Univeristy of Moravica, Northern Moravica University, University of Loyola-Istria, Wild Valley University, Istria City College, and the Islamic University of Busoga. The first 5 schools are all in the Moravica region, while the Islamic University is on the Buosga Islands, specifically, on the South Island.

The 6 schools will remain constant, though of course, they have said that they will accept more members from the BCSG if other schools so desire to join the league. While we wont' go over each team individually, just know that the 3 biggest schools out of the conference at the University of Moravica, Northern Moravica, and Loyola-Istria, the "traditional" hockey playing schools, while the other 3, Istria City College, Wild Valley University, and the Islamic University, are newer.

by **Banija** » Sun Jan 28, 2018 11:00 pm

Greater Banijan Hockey League: Season 0

Muhoozi Kutombo, the first Chairman of the Banijan Hockey Federation

ISTRIA-The newly formed Banijan Hockey Federation has created the Greater Banijan Hockey League, which will combine current Banijan college hockey with hockey within the diaspora. The argument that college sports can be mixed in is that the league will technically file as "semi-professional", so that the universities are not required to pay their athletes. And, of course, for now, with revenue projections for the league all over the place, the diaspora teams will not be fully professional.

Teams from this league will be eligible to play in the Hockey Champions League. Here is how qualification will work out of this league. Each team will play each team in their division 6 times, for a total of 30 regular season games. Due to fiscal restraints on Banija's college athletes travelling abroad, there can be no crossover regular season games. The full BCSG will have to be convened to allow that to happen. Though, of course, any Moravica Conference qualifiers will be allowed to play in the Hockey Champions League.

With the league getting 4 spots, this is how qualification works. The winner of each division will clinch a spot directly into the Hockey Champions League. The top 3 teams in each conference will make the playoffs. The first round will see the #1 seed get a bye, with the #3 seed playing away to the #2 seed in the other division, and vice versa. The winners of those matches will also qualify directly for the Hockey Champions League, which gives Banija its four spots. Then, of course, the winners of 2 v. 3 play away to the #1 seed, and the winners will meet in the Final at the Northern Moravica Ice Arena.

Regular Season:

(3 points for a win, 1 for a tie)

Moravica Collegiate Hockey Conference    Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 University of Loyola-Istria             30   15   8   7    41   38   +3    53 - DIVISION CHAMPIONS; QUALIFIED FOR HOCKEY CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
2 Northern Moravica University            30   14   8   8    36   19  +17    50 - CLINCHED PLAYOFF BERTH
3 Istria City College                     30   12  10   8    40   32   +8    46 - CLINCHED PLAYOFF BERTH
4 University of Moravica                  30   10   8  12    39   34   +5    38
5 Islamic University of Busoga            30    9   9  12    22   32  −10    36
6 Wild Valley University                  30    4   9  17    24   47  −23    21

(3 points for a win, 1 for a tie)

International Division             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Rosaria Knights                   30   16   7   7    36   26  +10    55 - DIVISION CHAMPIONS; QUALIFIED FOR HOCKEY CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
2 Stallionograd Mountaineers        30   15   5  10    36   31   +5    50 - CLINCHED PLAYOFF BERTH
3 Cascadia Lions                    30   14   7   9    32   25   +7    49 -  CLINCHED PLAYOFF BERTH
4 Goldstaff Cocodragons             30   12   7  11    38   32   +6    43
5 Little Istria Tigersharks         30   12   7  11    30   26   +4    43
6 Frion Kaboomers                   30    1   7  22    19   51  −32    10

in the Moravica Collegiate Hockey Conference, the University of Loyola-Istria took home the trophy, just ekeing out their archrivals, Northern Moravica University, for the conference championship by a single game. On the final day of the regular season, both teams went into their games tied at 50 points a piece in the standings. The Blue Thunder took care of business at home, winning 4-2 over the University of Moravica, while Northern Moravica University could only manage a 2-2 draw with the Islamic University of Busoga.

In the International Divisional, the Rosaria Knights are the divisional champs. Unsurprisingly, of course, as they had 55 points gained over the course of the 30 game season. This division was closer in the next part of the standings, where one point separated second and third, though both teams are playing in the first round, and then the 4th and 5th place teams each had 43 points. The Kaboomers had a terrible season, only earning 10 points with one sole victory across 30 games.

Playoffs

Playoffs 1st Round
Northern Moravica University 0–1 Cascadia Lions
Stallionograd Mountaineers 1–0 Istria City College

Playoff Semifinals
University of Loyola-Istria 2–1 Stallionograd Mountaineers
Rosaria Knights 3–0 Cascadia Lions

Grand Final
University of Loyola-Istria 2–2 Rosaria Knights (1–2 SO) KNIGHTS ARE LEAGUE CHAMPIONS

The Cascadia Lions and the Stallionograd both clinched the Greater Banijan Hockey League's last two spots with their 1st round playoff victories. Both were close, gritty games, with the Lions winning 1-0 on the campus of Northern Moravica, and the Mountaineers hosting Istria City College and able to grind out a 1-0 victory. Both games were what playoff hockey is all about. Whiteouts, loud crowds, hard hits, few goals, and emotions running high. Stallionograd, in particular, had to kill a 5 on 3 for 90 seconds, with a deafening crowd in the Equestrian States behind them.

Then, of course, we came to the semifinals. The University of Loyola-Istria, the winner of the Moravica Collegiate Hockey Conference, hosted the Stallionograd Mountaineers. With both university teams losing in the 1st round, it was up to them to carry the mantle of the schools on the homeland. They did so, cruising to a 2-1 victory over the Mountaineers. Scoring on power plays in the 1st and 2nd periods both helped them to this win, as they did not allow a goal until the very end of the match. The Rosaria Knights, true to form, dominated the Lions, 3-0.

And, of course, there was the final. The two division champs- the Knights against the Blue Thunder. It was a tight battle. Going into the 3rd period tied 1-1, both teams battled and each scored in the third period, with the Knights tying the game at 2 with 1:09 remaining, but the Blue Thunder hitting the post with under 25 seconds. The teams, after they could not be separated after 60 minutes, had to go to shootout. In the shootout, the Blue Thunder went 1/3, while the Knights went 2/2 and won the whole cup, on Northern Moravica's ice in Herzegovina City.

Ultimately, it was a fitting end to a decent inaugural season. The playoff games were all close and gritty, except for one, and the excitement around Banijan hockey went up. And, with the diaspora league, it gave a platform for Banijans that they normally would not have, which is important in terms of connecting Banijans abroad with Banijans back home. It is a unique league with a unique format, and we'll see if this league can see at least some semblance of success in HCL play this year.

by **Banija** » Wed Mar 21, 2018 8:02 pm

The Banijan Soccer League - Season 6 Rosters

Teams in the BSL-
Underlined players are Banijan internationals.
Nationality is listed if they are not Banijan.
Italicized players are internationals for a foreign country.
1. Herzegovina City Football Club.
Manager: Brian Emerson(Cosumar). 74 years old, 1st year at club.
Formation: 3-2-3-2.
GK #16 Delbin Kasekende. Age 31.
LB #3 Alifa Diawara. Age 29.
CB #5 Lazlo Kearney. Age 30(Nephara)
RB #2 Zinnah Atieno. Age 27.
LCM #14 Elias Abate. Age 32.
RCM #7 Boimah Ba. Age 33.
RAM #10 Aarón Aiza. Age 27(Equestrian States). Played in World Cup 79 Qualifying; Did not play in the Cup of Harmony.
CAM #17 Lucas Lucius Vit. Age 30(Natanians & Nosts)
LAM #22 Jackson Oglobelo. Age 23(Abaja)
ST #6 Ennis Leishman. Age 29(New West Gallia)
ST #9 Guillermo Madruga. Age 26(Amazonesta).

2. Jinja City Football Club.
Manager: Alexander Bumba. Age 47, 6th year at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Corren Dankworth. Age 31(Nephara).
LB # 2 Fyodor Khalturin. Age 24(Arioslavia).
CB #15 Jio Eyawanifamni. Age 27(Abaja).
CB #13 Clarice Easter. Age 28(Chromatika)
RB #18 Yuri Poltoranin. Age 22(Arioslavia).
LM #7 Nikolay Menshikov. Age 25(Arioslavia).
CM #24 Daniel Asres. Age 30.
CM #10 Tokpah Ba. Age 34.
RM #23 Sia Fall. Age 24.
RS #9 Lin Moon. Age 27(Chromatika). Played in World Cup 79 Qualifying; did not play in World Cup Finals.
LS #11 Deonte Bradley. Age 28(Eastfield Lodge).

3. Busukuma Athletic Club.
Manager: Ferran Rey(Juvencus). 43 years old, 1st year at the club.
Formation: 3-4-3
GK #1. Ivan Ignatiev. Age 23(Arioslavia).
RB #2 Oliver Scott. Age 30(Schottia)
CB #15 Gereh Kinteh. Age 31.
LB #6 Daluxolo Matshikiza. Age 24.
LM #7 Graven Braehead. Age 26(Brenicia).
CDM #18 Phumelele Stofile. Age 23.
CAM #21 Toyuwa Sall. Age 34. Captain
RM #8 Ansu Cisse. Age 27.
LM #7 Baslios Temesgen. Age 28.
ST #9 Oren Ya'akovi. Age 37(Sultanate of Oontaz)
RW #7 Alanso Tamba. Age 22.

4. Hoima Warriors.
Interim Manager: Carlton Hamilton. Age 44. Hired on Matchday 25, will not manage past the end of the season. Pons Blaise fired after Matchday 24.
Formation: 3-5-2.
GK #1 Chase Rushden. Age 31(Nephara).
LB #5 Idowu Kwandani. Age 32.
CB #4 Wenceslaw. Age 26(Cosumar).
RB #19 Kofa Toure. Age 32.
LM #13 Julian Turner. Age 25(Dunnes).
CM #14 Samba Ndaw. Age 25.
CM #22 Flomo Osei. Age 34.
RM #6 John Katumba.Captain. Age 36.
CAM #10 Marbue Owusu. Age 25.
LS #7 Andrey Soltykov. Age 22(Arioslavia).
RS #11 Derick Mason. Age 32(Schottia).

5. Istria City Football Club.
Manager: Erechtheus Condos. Age 71, 7th year at club.
Starters: 4-2-3-1
GK #1 Gabriel Negus. Age 35.
RB #2 Ephrem Selassiee. Age 20.
CB #5 Maximiliane Purcell(Nephara). Age 24.
CB #4 Noah Geteye. Age 26.
LB #18 Ensa Camara. Age 22.
CDM #19 Robel Abeselome. Age 31.
CDM #15 Bullo Afework. Age 33.
LM #7 Atsushi Ryu. Age 26(Dunnes).
CAM #10 Girma Asmelash. Age 30.
RM #11 Addis Anwar. Age 30.
ST #9 Assefa Yitebarke. Age 23.

6. Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club.
Manager: Yafet Kahsai. Age 52, 5th year at club.
Starters: 5-3-2 w/ sweeper
GK #1 Assefa Berhane. Age 27.
RB #2 Siafa Diop. Age 28.
CB #5 Araiy. Age 23(Dainer).
SW #3 Hatabu Ouattara. Age 23.
CB #4 Jalang Ba. Age 22.
LB #12 Saa Osei. Age 37.
LM #25 Asa Sylla. Age 27.
CM #8 Gutinho. Age 33(Western Sunrise Islands).
RM #17 Ervin Jon-Mikel. Age 31(Abaja)
LS #7 Vicente Bernardes. Age 33(Amazonesta).
RS #11 Demetro Laterza. Age 26(Juvencus).

7. Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club.
Manager: Iphicrates Bella, Age 47, 4th year at club.
Starters: 3-3-3-1.
GK #1 Ke Linkenhorne. Age 28(The Askari Union).
RB #2 Obey Chidiebere. Age 21.
CB #3 Chikondi Tokodoni. Age 35.
LB #14 Gugulethu Feza. Age 22.
CDM #15 Chinasa Arendse. Age 34. Younger brother of former men's national team right back Tamandani Arendse.
RCM #12 Ihejirika Akachi. Age 33.
LCM #11 Jumaane Folami. Age 32.
RW #7 Kobina Irsay. Age 32.
CAM #10 Okonkwo Okparro. Age 22.
LW #8 Thoko Kgosi. Age 32.
ST #9 Bruno Rodrigues. Age 32(Amazonesta).

8. The Lwanga Lions.
Manager: Simon Wanjala. Age 38. 1st year at club. Former starter on the Banijan National Team.
Starters: 4-2-1-3
GK #1 Leandro Garcia. Age 33(Amazonesta). Captain.
RB #2 Beheilu Dessalegne. Age 33.
CB #4 Assefa Roni. Age 33.
CB #5 Negus Kebede. Age 27.
LB #6 Kirubel Ayele. Age 33.
RCM #20 Basant Servaia. Age 26.
LCM #25 Assi Finhas. Age 32.
CAM #10 Xavier Melchoir. Age 16(Taeshan).
LW #7 Phineas Antwell. Age 21(Cosumar)
ST #9 Gizaw Mignote. Age 34.
RW #11 Josef Lawerenz. Age 18(Equestrian States).

9. Askatasuna Football Club.
Manager: Protesilaus Soter. Age 71, 11th year at the club.
Starters: 4-4-2
GK #1 Hakim Gukssa. Age 26.
RB #2 Melku Atikem. Age 32.
CB #5 Eba Zeru. Age 35.
CB #4 Barnabas Abdimelech. Captain. Age 36.
LB #18 Malek Abdullah(Huda). Age 32.
LM #17 Diego Furtado. Age 31(Amazonesta).
CM # 13 Michael Negasso. Age 32.
CM #15 Alem Bekira. Age 32.
RM #12 Martin Lucey. Age 19(Dunnes).
RS #7 Alulawe Ju. Age 30(Abaja)
LS #11 Rada Ezera. Age 26.

10. Kitara Athletic Association.
Manager: Flip Kollias. Age 60, 6th year at club.
Starters: 3-3-1-3
GK #1 Sago Nagatomo. Age 24(Kita-Hinode)
RB #2 Enzo Capistran. Age 37(Amazonesta).
CB #15 Melech Gersem. Age 30.
LB #19 Abraham Godefai. Age 24.
LM #11 Ahmad Abdullah. Age 21(Abaja)
CDM #14 Thomas Owen. Age 22(Audioslavia)
RM #8 Mekbib Asmelash. Age 32.
CAM #10 Francis Getachew. Age 34.
LW #7 Habtamu Girma. Age 37.
ST #9 Zewedu Alemayehu. Age 35.
RW #8 Taye Negasso. Age 32.

11. Mynda Electra - Formerly Mynda Soccer Club.
Manager: Jose Gonzalez(Amazonesta). Age 63, 4th year at the club.
Starters: 4-4-2
GK #1 Zinnah Ndiaye. Age 30.
RB #2 Barry Horlock. Age 33(Nephara).
CB #4 Samson Gashi. Age 30.
CB #5 Saa Mensah. Age 31. Twin brother of Blama Mensah.
LB #3 Blama Mensah. Age 31. Twin brother of Saa Mensah.
RM #17 Ngũnjiri Wachiuru. Age 22
CM #15 Trokon Sesay. Age 30.
CM #12 Miguel Freitas. Age 34(Amazonesta). Captain.
LM #8 Kwame Gebremichael. Age 32.
LS #11 Sarh Sane. Age 33.
RS #9 Meherka Edris. Age 33.

12. Aissa United Football Club.
Manager: Gregory Banis, Age 54. 5th year at club.
Starters: 5-4-1
GK #1 Yonas Tolla. Age 36.
RWB #2 Bona Demessie. Age 33.
RCB #15 Gathu Wamiti. Age 29.
CB #15 Osmar Tavares da Silva. Age 28(Amazonesta).
LCB #17 Eduardo Val De La Salles. Age 23(Amazonesta)
LB #7 Travis Cherenebereck. Age 26.
RM #18 Amde Melos. Age 30.
CM #8 Amare Degu. Age 34. Captain.
CM #10 Oromo Berhanu. Age 35.
LM #23 Gabriel Teoflyos. Age 34.
ST #9 Kawsu Mboge. Age 31.

13. Isipongo Flash.
Manager: Chuka Belonwu. 42 years old, 2nd year at club.
Starters: 4-3-2-1
GK #1 Jumu Sanneh. Age 21.
RB #2 Abesalom Anwar. Age 35.
CB #5 Malo Izijurim. Age 28(Abaja)
CB #4 Jayce Howard. Age 30(Brenicia)
LB #14 Raphael Wendimu. Age 28.
LM #7 Youssef Negasi(Huda). Age 32.
CM #18 Jared Clotterman. Age 31(Schottia).
RM #17 Elias Bayou. Age 33.
RCAM #20 Lebna Ephram. Age 31.
LCAM #10 Natnael Dagmawi. Age 31.
ST #9 Noah Lamont Hill. Age 30(Devonta).

14. Dukuma Sporting Club.
Manager: Yaser Karimi(Al Qurija). 61 years old, 1st year at club(member of Karimi family, new owners of Dukuma SC)
Starters: 4-4-2 diamond.
GK #1 Ayman Jawdat Sultan. Age 22(Al Qurija)
RB #14 Émerson Morais. Age 30.
CB #5 Gedeyon Debebe. Age 33.
CB #6 Amde Gersem. Age 34.
LB #23 Baslios Fisseha. Age 30.
CDM #21 Yonas Benti. Captain. Age 39.
LM #7 Kinuthia Warari. Age 30.
RM #18 Ivanildo. Age 30(Amazonesta)
CAM #10 Andre Mesay. Age 30.
RS #19 Girum Mikias. Age 28.
LS #9 Kurtis Southwell. Age 26(Brenicia).

15. Rukunbi Football Club.
Manager: Teague Spanos. Age 61, 8th year at club.
Starters: 4-3-3
GK #1 Dawit Berhanu. Age 38.
RB #2 Dembo Jawara. Captain.Age 34.
CB #5 Berhane Abdikarim. Age 34. (Twin brother of Henoke Abdikarim).
CB #3 Henoke Abdikarim. Age 34. (Twin brother of Berhane Abdikarim).
LB #12 Anwar Elshaday. Age 32.
LM #13 Menkir Teka. Age 33.
CM #10 Addis Medr. Age 29.
RM #6 Kahu Meherka. Age 33.
LW #11 Amir Bezuayehu. Age 36.
ST #9 Amanuel Bsrat. Age 26.
RW #24 Robel Beselot. Age 27.

16. Lakiska Sporting Club.
Manager: Ambros Macris. Age 65, 7th year at club.
Starters: 4-5-1
GK #1 Zachariah Elmer. Age 27(Nephara).
RB #2 Noah Abdimelech. Age 33.
CB #5 Bezerra Lemos. Age 23(Amazonesta)
CB #4 Gabriel Braga. Age 28(Amazonesta)
LB #19 Zeru Beryihun. Age 25.
LM #7 Markos Dalu. Age 29.
CM #15 Joseph Zekulu. Age 36. Captain.
CDM #18 Joseph Williamson. Age 24.
CM #14 Nathan Brehanu. Age 34.
RM #8 Ezekiel Wakayo. Age 31.
ST #9 Ousman Babaja. Age 23.

17. Busukuma Force.
Manager: Tibebu Eyoel. 68 years old. 5th year at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Meles Asmerom. Age 35.
RB #13 Zekulu Bullo. Age 34.
CB #5 Jack Fayne. Age 31(Nephara).
CB #4 Tesheme Yalaxow. Age 34.
LB #14 Molefi Mompati. Age 27.
RM #17 Tony Brough. Age 34(Brenicia).
CM #14 Chase Page. Age 34(Nephara). Captain.
LCM #15 Fabio Hamamura. Age 26(Amazonesta)
LM #8 Ansu Araya. Age 34.
RS #11 Meba Keya. Age 35.
LS #9 Mateo Keepton. Age 31(Nephara)

18. Herzegovina Phoenix.
Manager: Mark Grayson(Nephara). 47 years old, 1st year at club.
Formation: 4-2-1-3
GK #1 Gersem Markos. Age 33.
RB #2 Vastyn Tredillick. Age 24(Ceni).
CB #3 Yafet Fekadu. Age 34. Captain.
CB #5 Eba Feleke. Age 31.
LB #4 Aaron Eyob. Age 33.
RDM #15 Israel Dejene. Age 34.
LDM #14 Fasika Boru. Age 33.
CM #8 Lucia Silkemark. Age 24(Nephara)
LW #7 Abram Senay. Age 34.
ST #9 Chase Pershing. Age 33(Brenecia).
RW #12 Kayin Meseret. Age 32.

19. Busembe Timberwolves.
Manager: Zemenfes Nataye. Age 69. 5th year at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Neway Kidane. Age 38.
RB #2 Berihu Temesgen. Age 25.
CB #4 Filije Kolley. Age 21.
CB #5 Abate Brehanu. Age 26.
LB #3 HIstero Golazo. Age 30(Amazonesta).
RM #7 Melaku Tesfa. Age 30.
CM #19 Julio Leal. Age 36(Amazonesta). Captain.
CM #12 Kebede Henoke. Age 34.
LM #8 Ruphael Getachew. Age 35.
RS #11 Brendon Ediomgi. Age 34(Abaja)
LS #9 Kabir Jobateh. Age 21.

20. Bwubanza City Soccer Club.
Manager: Tessema Negasi. Age 63. 3rd year at club.
Formation: 3-1-3-3
GK #1 Dawit Iskinder. Age 40.
RB #14 Gedarm Tewodros. Age 35.
CB #4 David Bzuayehu. Age 33.
LB #18 Mebrete Essayas. Age 35.
CDM #21 Awash Menasse. Age 34. Captain.
RM #17 Mekdem Mesfin. Age 33.
CM #18 Amare Iskinder. Age 33.
LM #12 Basliel Berhanu. Age 34.
RW #7 Melaku Afeworki. Age 33.
ST #9 Manasses Teshome. Age 27.
LW #11 Yemane Bessufekad. Age 33.

by **Banija** » Wed Mar 21, 2018 9:53 pm

Banijan Regional League System - Season 2 Rosters

Underlined players are Banijan internationals.
Nationality is listed if they are not Banijan.
Italicized players are internationals for a foreign country.

The Northwestern League
1. Corizova United
Manager: Al Iska. 50 years old. 3rd year at the club.
Formation: 5-3-2
GK #1 Lemuel Bereket. Age 21
RWB #2 Idirissa Jagne. Age 29.
RCB #5 Baturou Saidykhan. Age 36. Captain.
CB #3 Yoro Janneh. Age 24.
LCB #4 Ousman Mansaré. Age 18.
LWB #6 Antouman Baldeg. Age 34.
LM #17 Tairu Jaiteh. Age 35.
CM #10 Sulayman Jassey. Age 33.
RM #8 Alasan Mendy. Age 32.
RS #11 Makang Marenah. Age 29.
LS #12 Bubacar Senghore. Age 25.

2. Barmos United.
Manager: Felipe Bergoglio(Amazonesta). Age 49. 2nd season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Farai Dulini. Age 29.
RB #20 Moyo Chiroto. Age 30.
CB #4 Nhamo Rugeje. Age 21.
CB #5 Nassim Samir Nejem. Age 18(Al Qurija).
LB #3 Tarirai Towungana. Age 26.
RM #14 Tateguru Chikwava. Age 24.
CM #23 Chenjerai Mugabe. Age 26.
CM #10 Manenji Mwayenga. Age 33. Captain.
LM #12 Baba Mtawarira. Age 29.
RS #15 Tichafara Chimusasa. Age 31.
LS #7 Tinavo Jongwe. Age 36.

3. AFC Kosactus.
Manager: Elijah Bryan. Age 47. 5th year at club.
Formation: 3-5-2.
GK #1 Jacob Yusai. Age 30.
RB #2 Thabo Tsholofelo. Age 24.
CB #5 Mmoloki Pusoetsile. Age 35. Captain.
LB #4 Ayele Gizaw. Age 17.
RDM #18 Baleseng Lasaro. Age 31.
LDM #14 Thaelo Fenyang. Age 32.
LM #17 Rebatho Magosi. Age 26.
RM #8 Morapedi Tumelo. Age 29.
CAM #8 Baaitse Sesupo. Age 24.
RS #10 Olebogeng Bakang. Age 24.
LS #9 Moagisi Morongwa. Age 23.

4. Suwawa FC.
Manager: Estève Palomer. Age 54(Nuovo Juvencus). 1st season at club.
Formation: 5-4-1.
GK #1 Ohlud Venzi. Age 19.
LWB #13 Busang Diphetogo. Age 24.
LCB #4 Motswane Loago. Age 28.
CB #5 Basimane Dineo. Age 29.
RCB #16 Moswen Mosegi. Age 34.
RWB #19 Ookeditse Theofilo. Age 25.
LM #17 Thito Kgosie. Age 29.
CM #8 Isang Khumo. Age 32.
CM #15 Lore Theofilo. Age 33.
RM #14 Seako Mothibi. Age 24.
ST #12 Mompati Molatedi. Age 29.

5. Tezirbu Foxes
Manager: Mohammed Al-Jeafar. Age 58. 4th year at club.
Formation: 4-4-2 Diamond.
GK #1 Abadar Al-Jeafar. Age 35(first son of the manager).
RB #2 Qaasin Hussein. Age 24.
CB #4 Fihr Muhammed Bousaid. Age 24(Al Qurija)
CB #5 Qaaje Nassar. Age 24.
LB #3 Naasif el-Beydoun. Age 29.
CDM #18 Muhsin al-Zaki. Age 33. Captain.
LM #17 Mashhur Al-Jeafar. Age 16(first son of Abadar Al-Jeafar and grandson of manager Mohammed Al-Jeafar).
RM #8 Zaahir al-Abraham. Age 31.
CAM #10 Shakeel el-Salih. Age 21.
RS #11 Hamad el-Ghazi. Age 29.
LS #9 Kabeer al-Sadri. Age 22.

6. Eastern Moravica FC
Manager: Oscar Boateng.. 2nd season at club. 53 years old.
Formation: 4-2-3-1.
GK #1 Randall Perry III. Age 34.
RB #2 Madoda Hani. Age 23.
CB #5 Khuselwa Mankayi. Age 29.
CB #4 Aphiwe Mazwai. Age 28.
LB #3 Phakamile Vavi. Age 25.
RDM #8 Sibabalwe Booi. Age 32. Captain.
LDM #14 Lwandle Nkuhlu. Age 33.
RAM #11 Hlomela Ntini. Age 26.
CAM #10 Onke Ntlokwana. Age 23.
LAM #7 Silumko Ngubenani. Age 22.
CF #9 Khuzani Nzo. Age 21.

7. Jaribga Soccer Club
Manager: Ermacora Dinapoli. Age 58(Juvencus). 1st season at club.
Formation: 3-4-3 diamond.
GK #1 Hibbaan al-Shareef. Age 20.
RB #2 Jamaal Khalid Tawfiq. Age 21(Al Qurija)
CB #5 Ashraf el-Tabet. Age 33. Captain.
LB #35 Naaji al-Azam. Age 21.
CDM #14 Umair el-Qasim. Age 35.
LM #17 Naazim el-Usman. Age 31.
RM #8 Suhail el-Shams. Age 29.
CAM #10 Farajallah el-Baluch. Age 30.
LW #11 Tareef el-Salik. Age 26.
ST #9 Asmar al-Alli. Age 23.
RW #7 Hamza el-Abu. Age 24.

8. Slobochia Bears.
Manager: Travis Yeste. Age 49. 4th season at club.
Formation: 3-1-3-2-1
GK #1 Trae Borga. Age 31.
RB #2 Sigqibo Holomisa. Age 29. Triplet brother of other two defenders on the Bears.
CB #5 Bonani Holomisa. Age 29. Triplet brother of other two defenders on the Bears.
LB #3 Sonwabile Biko. Age 29. Triplet brother of other two defenders on the Bears.
CDM #6 Silumko Dana. Age 31.
LM #17 Buzwe Ntshona. Age 19.
CM #8 Carl Stieber. Age 28(Equestrian States). Captain.
RM #7 Mpumelelo Mabandla. Age 30.
LAM #10 Mangaliso Mandela. Age 26.
RAM #14 Ermias Dibaba. Age 19.
ST #9 Dingindawo Pokwana. Age 24.

9. Koszagard City
Manager: David Finebaum. Age 41. Second season at club.
Formation; 4-2-4.
GK #1 Kizito Nzo. Age 36.
RB #2 Fezekile Ndodana. Age 30.
CB #5 Diliza Nqakula. Age 25.
CB #4 Velile Makwetu. Age 26.
LB #3 Wendimu Retta. Age 20.
CM #8 Thamsanqa Pukwana. Age 24.
CM #14 Sizamile Siganeko. Age 23.
LW #11 Mzukisi Soga. Age 36. Captain.
RS #9 Mesuli Kwenkwe. Age 32.
LS #10 Thandisizwe Mandela. Age 31.
RW #7 Mthuthuzeli Jabavu. Age 34.

10. Nezrouch Rovers
Manager: Alberto Cuandro(Age 56). Amazonesta. Second sason as manager at the club.
Formation: 4-3-3
GK #1 Sharaf al-Ammar. Age 39.
RB #2 Jamaal el-Akhtar. Age 26.
CB #15 Wajdi al-Ben. Age 31.
CB #29 Saabiq el-Usman. Age 33.
LB #3 Ala al-Din Mahomet El-Hashem. Age 19(Al Qurija)
CM #8 Humaid el-Zamani. Age 30.
CM #18 Rajab al-Ben. Age 26.
CAM #10 Maazin el-Bilal. Age 33.
LW #11 Sad al-Hosseini. Age 29.
ST #12 Naasif el-Shaikh. Age 30.
RW #7 Masud Latif. Age 21.

11. Taramazna United.
Manager: Yasser Qadir. Age 63(Al-Qurija). Second season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Ericsson Daniels. 36 years old.
RB #2 Yekile Nzo. Age 23.
CB #5 Fezile Ntsokwana. Age 28.
CB #4 Mthuthuzeli Ngqawana. Age 31.
LB #3 Bhekinkosi Mhlambiso. Age 33.
RM #7 Senzile Rubusana. Age 29.
CM #14 Mzwandile Tyali. Age 25
CM #8 Viwe Sobukwe. Age 32.
LM #23 Phumlani Ngcaba. Age 23.
LS #9 Lelethu Jongilanga. Age 29.
RS #12 Thukile Jadezweni. Age 35. Captain.

12. Tripoli Foresters
Manager: Josiah Buba. 39 years old. Former Banijan men's national team player. Second season as coach. Born & raised in Tripoli.
Formation: 4-4-2.
GK #1 Waleed al-Aydin. Age 36.
RB #2 Subhi el-Zafar. Age 33.
CB #5 Muneer al-Mansouri. Age 35.
CB #4 Aslam el-Hallal. Age 35.
LB #13 Abdul Haleem el-Minhas. Age 29.
LM #17 Abdur Rasheed el-Dia. Age 31.
CM #8 Fateen al-Tabet. Age 26.
CM #10 Qusay Binyamin Ajam. Age 18(Al Qurija)
RM #7 Yoosuf al-Zakaria. Age 24.
RS #9 Shujaa el-Kazmi. Age 36. Captain.
LS #11 Shaheed al-Salek. Age 33.

Lower Coastal League
1. Kabakono City
Manager: Alan Bettles. 58 years old.3rd season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Karafa Touray. Age 20.
RB #12 Juma Jammeh. Age 29.
CB #4 Samba Mbye. Age 32.
CB #5 Gukssa Habibi. Age. 26.
LB #2 Baboucar Kujabi. Age 32.
RM #11 Senay Dejene. Age 19.
CM #10 Kemo Conateh. Age 31.
CM #8 Bahij Wafi Saab. Age 25(Al Qurija)
LM #7 Essa Mansaré. Age 35. Captain.
RS #10 Abdoulaye Ouattara. Age 23.
LS #9 Idi Singhateh. Age 23.

2. Capitol City Football Club.
Manager: Alexander Berry. 76 years old. 20th and final season at club. Also the club's sole owner. Only club in the Lower Coastal League that is not fan owned.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Aman Melku. Age 18.
RB #2 Malik Secka. Age 24.
CB #5 Wandi Kouyaté. Age 33. Younger twin brother of Daba Kouyaté.
CB #4 Daba Kouyaté. Age 33. Older twin brother of Wandi Kouyaté.
LB #3 Fekati Abdi. Age 18.
RM #17 Jabr Afzal Abdullah. Age 21(Al Qurija)
CM #18 Yankubah Daramy. Age 30.
CM #14 Landing Biri. Age 29.
LM #7 Sarjo Ceesay. Age 43. Captain. Oldest professional footballer in Banija. Has vowed to play until 45.
RS #9 Fakebba Kolley. Age 23.
LS #10 Solomon Devonte. Age 33(Devonta).

3. Balweye Football Club
Manager: Lukas Bornas. 59 years old. 6th season at club.
Formation: 4-3-3 false nine
GK #1 Bassam Harith Boulos. Age 19(Al Qurija).
RB #2 Paboy Saidykhan. Age 21.
CB #5 Daba Mansaré. Age 24.
CB #4 Kamara Njie. Age 26.
LB #3 Fabba Nyang. Age 29.
CDM #14 Lafi Touray. Age 32. Captain.
RCM #18 Momodou Marong. Age 26.
LCM #8 Ediresa Ceesay. Age 31.
CAM #10 Ebrima Jatta. Age 31.
LW #7 Yaya Kayode. Age 25.
RW #11 Abdoulaye Sanyang. Age 30.

4. Zakuta City
Manager: Al Thompson. 58 years old. 8th season at club.
Formation: 3-4-3.
GK #1 Kausu Biri. Age 30.
RB #2 Malik Ndaw. Age 21.
CB #4 Sidibeh Condé. Age 27.
LB #3 Yaya Condeh. Age 24.
RM #17 Baturou Jawara. Age 28.
CM #18 Yohannes Asmelash. Age 18.
CM #14 Gereh Sanyang. Age 33. Captain.
LM #11 Idris Nur ad-Din Naaji. Age 20(Al Qurija)
RW #7 Omar Coote. Age 24.
ST #9 Kebba Nyang. Age 31.
LW #19 Ablie Sanneh. Age 27.

5. Djoru Athletic
Manager: Pilate Esters. 49 years old. 3rd season at club.
Formation: 4-5-1 Diamond.
GK #1 Aron Hassan. Age 18.
RB #2 Hatabu Manneh. Age 24.
CB #5 Kemo Savaneh. Age 25.
CB #4 Addo Soley. Age 29.
LB #3 Baluta Ndaw. Age 33.
RM #17 Karafa Ngum. Age 26.
RCM #14 Tairu Jobe. Age 29.
CM #8 Abu Condé. Age 31. Captain.
LCM #18 Wassa Ba. Age 32.
LM #19 Ediresa Biri. Age 25.
CF#9 Rasheed Munir Al-Mufti. Age 26(Al Qurija)

6. Ogbordu Diamond Football Club
Manager: Lyle Jordan. 48 years old. 2nd season at club.
Formation: 5-4-1
GK #1 Yankubah Colley. Age 20.
RWB #2 Tamba Baldeh. Age 30.
RCB #5 Kemo Uster. Age 32.
CB #4 Boto Ndiaye. Age 33. Captain.
LCB #3 Sama Mboob. Age 22.
LWB #20 Karamo Mansaray. Age 30.
RM #7 Masane Mbye. Age 26.
CM #10 Bailo Ba. Age 31.
CM #8 Sulayman Janneh. Age 32.
LM #11 Wassa Kairaba. Age 24.
CF#9 Umar Thamir Nagi. Age 21(Al Qurija)

7. Nsade United.
Manager: Noab Jember. 60 years old. 5th season with club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Aviwe Mankayi. Age 28.
RB #2 Eyob Melkamu. Age 31.
CB #5 Mzoxolo Booi. Age 32.
CB #4 Dalumzi Ntsokwana. Age 28.
LB #3 Mesuli Nahola. Age 24.
LM #7 Lwazi Kolisi. Age 31.
CM #10 Thembalethu Mthobeni. Age 24.
CM #8 Sonwabo Najeke. Age 25.
RM #17 Gcobani Dumalisile. Age 23.
RS #11 Xolani Mtoto. Age 32. Captain.
LS #9 Finnr Beckert. Age 19(Equestrian States)

8. AFC Akwadua
Manager: Kidane Chirkos. 45 years old. 1st year at club.
Formation: 3-4-3 Diamond.
GK #1 Kahsu Alemu. Age 37. Captain.
RB #2 Matanzima Kwenkwe. Age 31.
CB #5 Jikela Maqoma. Age 32.
LB #3 Dumisani Mgijima. Age 33.
CDM #4 Dumile Nombembe. Age 29.
RM #8 Bhekinkosi Mtoto. Age 25.
LM #7 Gqibelo Msutu. Age 31.
CAM #10 Mzwakhe Makepula. Age 24.
RW #11 Lundi Kani. Age 31.
ST #9 Lindani Sisulu. Age 32.
LW #19 Masakhane Sikali. Age 28.

9. Kitara Athletic Society
Manager: Harold Lisle. 48 years old. 7th season at club.
Formation: 4-3-3
GK #1 Luzuko Botile. Age 27.
RB #2 Mangaliso Ndungane. Age 29.
CB #5 Mnyamezeli Ntlokwana. Age 24.
CB #4 Mncedisi Jezile. Age 27.
LB #3 Yekile Nkuhlu. Age 31.
RM #17 Mpilo Mkutukana. Age 33.
CM #10 Lifa Tyali. Age 24.
LM #19 Fundani Mabandla. Age 25.
LW #11 Sidima Pityana. Age 24.
ST #12 Jonginkosi Makepula. Age 32.
RW #7 Teodros Abdellahi. Age 34. Captain.

10. Kwadama Dojo
Manager: Tamrat Asnake. 55 years old. 4th season at club.
Formation: 4-4-1-1
GK #1. Frederick Beech. Age 27.
RB #21 Mũtiga Wachira. Age 31.
CB #3 Wambũgũ Kuria. Age 33.
CB #4 Gathaiya Theuri. Age 35. Captain.
LB #22 Mũgo Wamahiũ. Age 24.
RM #17 Ejigu Meekhbeb. Age 18.
CM #14 Mũrĩranja Nyoike. Age 25.
CM #15 Gĩtari Kamande. Age 28.
LM #11 Mũhũri Wachira. Age 25.
CF #12 Gĩthaiga Gĩchikũ. Age 22.
ST #9 Gĩkonyo Wawerũ. Age 23.

11. Mamari City
Manager: Alengae Workneh. Age 50. 3rd season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2.
GK #1 Phumlani Sontonga. Age 31.
RB #2 Jongephi Ngubenani. Age 32.
CB #5 Bulelani Komani. Age 24.
CB #4 Wonga Stofile. Age 25.
LB #3 Khuselwa Jali. Age 31.
RM #17 Melumzi Kolisi. Age 21.
CM #18 Ndothusile Mandela. Age 22.
CM #14 Andile Sandile. Age 22.
LM #11 Mthuthuzeli Mbeki. Age 21.
RS #9 Zandisile Xingwana. Age 32. Captain.
LS #11 Menas Bara. Age 28.

12. Dimbogourou Sporting Club
Manager: Andrew Less. 53 years old. 2nd season at club.
Formation: 3-4-3 Diamond.
GK #1 Hank Llordan. 26 years old.
RB #2 Madoda Stofile. Age 31.
CB #5 Jongephi Ngcuka. Age 32.
LB #3 Zukile Matshikiza. Age 33.
CDM #4 Masakhane Tshwete. Age 31.
RM #17 Mxolisi Thovela. Age 22.
LM #11 Bantu Qoboza. Age 23.
CAM #10 Luxolo Mankayi. Age 22.
RW #7 Mabhuti Mzolisa. Age 30.
ST #9 Sabelo Ngxanga. Age 24.
LW #19 Mesuli Ngonyama. Age 30.

Northern League
1. Cerenus United
Manager: Teoflyos Asres. 59 years old. 5th season at club.
Formation: 3-5-2.
GK #1 Joas Belendia. Age 36. Captain.
RB #2 Bantu Ndodana. Age 31.
CB #5 Naseer Ashfaq Alfarsi. Age 23(Al Qurija)
LB #3 Ayele Zekalu. Age 19.
RM #17 Mandilakhe Tyibilika. Age 26.
CDM #15 Lindani Qoboza. Age 29.
CM #14 Luyolo Ngubenani. Age 33.
CM #18 Abesalom Yitay. Age 19.
LM #11 Xolile Kani. Age 24.
RS #9 Lonwabo Dikana. Age 26.
LS #7 Zanemvula Dalasile. Age 31.

2. Garixas City
Manager: Thembinkosi Siwani. Age 38. 3rd season at club. Considered the 'most likely manager to be hired in the BSL' in the next 2-3 years.
Formation: 5-4-1
GK #1 Luzuko Ngcuka. Age 24.
RWB #2 Vuyani Qoboza. Age 28.
RCB #21 Bantu Mvovo. Age 23.
CB #5 Sani Jameel Hussain. Age 18(Al Qurija)
LCB #17 Zamekile Tyali. Age 33. Captain.
LWB #3 Anathi Mhlambiso. Age 32.
RM #11 Phumlani Ngxanga. Age 24.
CM #14 Zamikhaya Dlulane. Age 30.
CM #18 Masibulele Jadezweni. Age 24.
LM #7 Simphiwe Nkuhlu. Age 31.
CF #9 Mxolisi Gobodo. Age 26.

3. Koksho City
Manager: Adamu Demessie. Age 44. 2nd season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Mbingeleli Komani. Age 29.
RB #2 Rizwan Sulaiman Ahmad. Age 22(Al Qurija)
CB #5 Menzi Mtoto. Age 25.
CB #4 Sandile Nahola. Age 30.
LB #3 Swazi Matshikiza. Age 33.
RM #11 Jikela Sandile. Age 31.
CM #14 Mkhokeli Jabavu. Age 30.
CM #18 Zaminkosi Mkutukana. Age 32.
LM #7 Lizo Xingwana. Age 35. Captain.
RS #9 Phumzile Pikisa. Age 26.
LS #11 Fezile Ndodana. Age 29.

4. Nanami Dragons
Manager: Nyaniso Mazwai. 50 years old. 5th season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Madoda Jabavu. Age 26.
RB #2 Mzwakhe Tyibilika. Age 22.
CB #5 Mabhuti Makwetu. Age 23.
CB #4 Sizamile Ngonyama. Age 29.
LB #3 Boutros Hussain Kader. Age 17(Al Qurija)
LM #8 Zamekile Joyi. Age 35.
CM #6 Melumzi Booi. Age 31.
CM #10 Simphiwe Dumalisile. Age 32. Captain.
LM #11 Lwandle Maqoma. Age 29.
RS #11 Thukile Qoboza. Age 24.
LS #9 Beca Menas. Age 23.

5. Duntho Sporting Club
Manager: Mitiku Fassilidas. Age 67. 14th season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Wang’Ondu Mũrĩu. Age 32. Captain.
RB #2 Mũtegi Wang'Ombe. Age 32.
CB #5 Kĩnyua Thuũ. Age 33.
CB #6 Njaũ Waita. Age 25.
LB #3 Gathogo Mũtiga. Age 33.
RM #11 Mũkundi Wang’Ombe. Age 29.
CM #13 Thuũ Njerũ. Age 30.
CM #10 Rasim Murtaza El-Amin. Age 21(Al Qurija)
LM #7 Kimaru Njoroge. Age 23.
RS #9 Maitho Kanja. Age 32.
LS #12 Kamande Muriũki. Age 23.

6. Okakameb City
Manager: Kristopher Columbio. Age 57. 4th season at club.
Formation: 4-3-3 attacking.
GK #1 Retta Paulos. Age 23.
RB #2 Sabelo Mbeki. Age 22.
CB#4 Wandile Mavuso. Age 31.
CB #5 Matanzima Ndodana. Age 26.
LB #3 Thembinkosi Kolisi. Age 23.
CM #8 Mnyamezeli Sikali. Age 30.
CM #6 Malusi Nkuhlu. Age 24.
CAM #10 Ndothusile Kani. Age 33. Captain.
RW #7 Mthandeni Holomisa. Age 26.
ST #9 Mbulelo Mpumlwana. Age 31.
LW #11 Mabhuti Komani. Age 24.

7. Igulu City FC
Manager: Abraham Akampurira. 36 years old. Former Men's National Team Player. 1st year as manager.
Formation: 4-4-2.
GK #1 Eba Salam. Age 36. Captain.
RB #2 Maina Mathenge. Age 31.
CB #5 Gĩtari Njuguna. Age 33.
CB #4 Gĩtũra Gathongo. Age 32.
LB #3 Gachanja Mwai. Age 24.
RM #11 Kóri Vacík. Age 23(Equestrian States)
CM #14 Watene Mũrĩmi. Age 30.
CM #18 Koinange Mathenge. Age 31.
LM #7 Njoroge Kĩnyua. Age 33.
RS #11 Gĩtukũ Kinũthia. Age 25.
LS #9 Kenyatta Mũraya. Age 24.

8. AFC Okahavi
Manager: Markos Yideg. 61 years old. 3rd season at club.
Formation: 3-4-3 Diamond.
GK #1 Nebiyou Alemayehu. Age 24.
RB #2 Mzukisi Xingwana. Age 22.
CB #5 Sibabalwe Pukwana. Age 31.
LB #3 Zenzile Mankayi. Age 29.
CDM #8 Mthuthuzeli Dana. Age 23.
LM #6 Masibulele Siwani. Age 36.
RM #19 Fuzile Jadezweni. Age 33.
CAM #10 Ed Maestri. Age 24(Equestrian States).
LW #11 Thembani Dlulane. Age 29.
ST #9 Mongezi Rubusana. Age 33. Captain.
RW #7 Lifa Sontonga. Age 26.

9. Luguyala Patriots
Manager: Kidane Einku. Age 56. 5th season at club.
Formation: 5-4-1
GK #1 Dula Nahom. Age 36.
RWB #2 Mbingeleli Makwetu. Age 23.
RCB #3 Fikile Tambo. Age 29.
CB #5 Mzukisi Nqakula. Age 33. Captain.
LCB #4 Nqabisile Mda. Age 24.
LWB #6 Luthando Mkutukana. Age 31.
RM #17 Sakhiwo Sandile. Age 32.
CM #8 Zilindile Matshoba. Age 30.
CM #14 Diliza Makepula. Age 24.
LM #11 Dumile Siwani. Age 23.
ST #9 Mgcineni Nombembe. Age 31.

10. Gadive City
Manager: Nebiyou Alemayehu. 47 years old. 2nd season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Obi Frayzer. 33 years old.
RB #2 Welile Dandala. Age 29.
CB #21 Bhekinkosi Vavi. Age 30.
CB #29 Mcebisi Mgijima. Age 32.
LB #3 Vile Thovela. Age 23.
RM #7 Aphiwe Mtoto. Age 27.
CM #6 Siphelele Gola. Age 33. Captain.
CM #8 Mzwakhe Ntsokwana. Age 33.
LM #11 Thembalethu Nkuhlu. Age 32.
RS #12 Mavo Feza. Age 31.
LS #9 Senzile Hani. Age 26.

11. Thayaferu United
Manager: Liben Dessalegne. 50 years old. 2nd season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2 Diamond.
GK #1 Bayissa Beyne. 31 years old.
RB #2 Methuli Tshwete. 26 years old.
CB #5 Dumile Rubusana. 30 years old.
CB #4 Thukile Jabavu. 29 years old.
LB #3 Mthimkhulu Dana. 33 years old.
CDM #6 Xolisa Siganeko. 40 years old. Captain. Father of Zandisile Siganeko.
RM #7 Mzwakhe Ntini. 26 years old.
LM #11 Siphelele Xingwana. 27 years old.
CAM #10 Zandisile Siganeko. 19 years old. Son of Xolisa Siganeko.
RS #8 Luyolo Makinana. 24 years old.
LS #9 Mnyamezeli Mazwai. 29 years old.

12. Selekawe Knights.
Manager: Kiros Etefu. 67 years old. 3rd season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2.
GK #1 Kiros Etefu. Age 35.
RB #2 Ndirangũ Kĩhiũ. Age 35.
CB #5 Njagĩ Gĩchikũ. Age 36.
CB #4 Asrat Atatafi. Age 18.
LB #3 Kĩoi Thairu. Age 32.
RM #17 Njogu Mũrakaru. Age 35.
CM #14 Gathongo Nyamu. Age 32. Captain.
CM #18 Mũrĩgĩ Wakaritũ. Age 36.
LM #7 Kĩrĩma Gachii. Age 35.
RS #9 Wang’Ombe Mũthĩnji. Age 38.
LS #00 Kairu Wachira. Age 35.

Southern League
1. Hawabark Boulders
Manager: Alaji Senghore. 59 years old. 3rd season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2.
GK #1 Giovanni Falco. Age 21(Equestrian States).
RB #2 Wandi Suso. Age 31.
CB #5 Nfansu Sene. Age 35.
CB #4 Abdoulie Jawara. Age 33.
LB #3 Junkung Danso. Age 32.
RM #11 Kairaba Kujabi. Age 24.
CM #14 Masane Mbye. Age 28.
CM #10 Suhayl Mostafa Ahmed. Age 23(Al Qurija)
LM #19 Momodu Touré. Age 32. Captain.
RS #7 Idi Ndour. Age 34.
LS #12 Lafi Kabba. Age 22.

2. Sororo City
Manager: Italo Cola. Age 49(Juvencus). 1st season at club.
Formation: 3-4-3 Diamond.
GK #1 Seedy Dabo. Age 32.
RB #2 Wassa Kabba. Age 28.
CB #5 Laity Dieye. Age 27.
LB #3 Jerold Ferguson. Age 29(Equestrian States).
CDM #6 Lamin Sidibeh. Age 32. Captain.
RM #17 Badara Jarju, Age 24
LM #11 Mus'ad Asad Abdulrashid. Age 22(Al Qurija)
CAM #10 Assan Thiaw. Age 30.
RW #7 Bailo Camara. Age 23.
ST #9 Wandy Kujabi. Age 25.
LW #20 Boubacar Kinte. Age 29.

3. Umbazi FA
Manager: Isa Guissé. 39 years old. 2nd season at club. Up & coming manager.
Formation: 5-4-1
GK #1 Jamang Ceesay. 35 years old.
RWB #2 Bassirou Kaba. Age 30.
RB #4 Filije Sarr. Age 31.
CB #5 Gisbert Irving. Age 30(Equestrian States). Captain.
LB #6 Chenor Touré. Age 34.
LWB #3 Buwa Kinte. Age 32.
RM #17 Alifa Mboge. Age 24.
CM #14 Kamara Dabo. Age 29.
CM #18 Saihou Coote. Age 33.
LM #11 Samba Diawara. Age 30.
CF #9 Zaki Hameed Karimi. Age 18(Al Qurija)

4. Pumbasa Bears
Manager: Edrissa Condeh. 56 years old. 2nd season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2.
GK #1 Pateh Sidibeh. Age 31.
RB #2 Paboy Guiss. Age 35. Captain.
CB #5 Thorley Ralston. Age 22(Equestrian States).
CB #4 Kabiru Ngum. Age 25.
LB #3 Sidibeh Dabo. Age 31.
RM #11 Narciso Campo. Age 20(Al Qurija)
CM #10 Kemo Savaneh. Age 30.
CM #14 Landing Jallow. Age 31.
LM #17 Fabba Fadika. Age 22.
RS #9 Kunta Ogoo. Age 23.
LS #12 Lafi Mansaré. Age 30.

5. Dodoma City SC
Manager: Ousman Kouyaté. 58 years old. 4th season at club.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
GK #1 Jumu Jawara. Age 31.
RB #2 Malick Nyang. Age 33.
CB #5 Nfansu Sidibeh. Age 22.
CB #4 Hatabu Mboob. Age 29.
LB #3 Bouba Mansaré. Age 35. Captain.
RDM #6 Alfred Cooper. Age 29(Equestrian States)
LDM #13 Bora Kama. Age 31.
LAM #8 Junkung Ceesay. Age 30.
CAM #10 Kausu Dabo. Age 32.
RAM #11 Ebrahima Soley. Age 24.
CF #9 Botros Hanif Saqqaf. Age 25(Al Qurija)

6. Busemlu Park SC
Manager: Jerome Lucksetter. Age 56. 4th season at club.
Formation: 4-3-3 Defensive.
GK #1 Ismaela Sidibeh. Age 36.
RB #2 Jibou Ndour. Age 31.
CB #5 Babaja Condé. Age 32.
CB #4 Faraba Guissé. Age 35.
LB #3 Bamba Ndiaye. Age 29.
CDM #6 Malamin Mboge. Age 24.
RCM #14 Fion Fiedler. Age 26(New Cloudsdale)
LCM #18 Bai Sanyang. Age 22.
RW #11 Cristiano Mazza. Age 34(Osarius).
ST #10 Essa Fadika. Age 33. Captain.
LW #7 Bakary Gaye. Age 33.

7. Boufaya Ravens
Manager: Edward Lettison. 58 years old. 7th season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Foday Kuyateh. Age 23.
RB #2 Tamba Jawara. Age 35.
CB #5 Ablie Kah. Age 32.
CB #4 Makang Njie. Age 31.
LB #3 Bolong Secka. Age 29.
RM #11 Jebel Kouyaté. Age 22.
CM #8 Aviwe Kwenkwe. Age 33. Captain.
CM #14 Yakuba Ndiaye. Age 32.
LM #7 Habib Coulibaly. Age 33.
RS #9 Longcan Mansaré. Age 31.
LS #12 Omar Gaye. Age 30.

8. Mukegara Warriors
Manager: Isaiah Hendleson. 56 years old. 12th season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2.
Warriors only draw from the Mukegara tribe, a small tribe with an estimated population of between 40,000 and 50,000 that worships the Quebecois monarch, who they believe is the reincarnated God.
GK #1 Chigo Kgomotso. Age 30.
RB #2 Zoke Chebwa. Age 32.
CB #5 Abelo Okudlala. Age 33. Captain.
CB #4 Duna Duble. Age 29.
LB #6 Fokazi Dundu. Age 24.
RM #11 Iwe Samkange. Age 23.
CM #14 Tashongedzwa Nengomasha. Age 27.
CM #18 Taropafadzwa Nkomolade. Age 31.
LM #7 Chidawo Mwaruwari. Age 26.
RS #9 Chikwava Tirivangani. Age 32.
LS #10 Itai Taremekedzwa. Age 24.

9. Abomfa United.
Manager: Jongwe Diindingwe. Age 56. 2nd season at club.
Formation: 3-4-3 Diamond.
GK #1 Jelan Chidey. Age 31.
RB #21 Chidy Nnamdi. Age 32.
CB #30 Uchy Obie. Age 22.
LB #25 Jelaney Chononso. Age 31.
CDM #24 Jel Chibueze. Age 30.
RM #27 Chinese Ndidi. Age 32.
LM #31 Hardy Pedersen. Age 26(Equestrian States).
CAM #34 Oby Okorie. Age 23.
RW #39 Chuks Okparra. Age 32. Captain.
ST #29 Uziel Gal Tza'eer. Age 34(Sultanate of Oontaz).
LW #45 Ogbonna Obasea. Age 32.

10. Amaku City FC
Manager: Kirabo Besigye. 43 years old. 3rd season at club.
Formation: 3-4-1-2
GK #1 Chydy Chinwendu. Age 24
RB #2 Okparro Obey. Age 31.
CB #5 Koofrey Orjie. Age 22.
LB #3 Jelan Chijindum. Age 25.
RM #11 Kagwa Wachiuri. Age 27.
CM #14 Obasy Azubuike. Age 32. Captain.
CM #18 Uchee Chinou. Age 33.
LM #17 Mazi Nkechi. Age 25.
CAM #10 Chukwuma Akubundu. Age 19.
RS #9 Somayina Chidee. Age 25.
LS #12 Uchea Maduabuchim. Age 30.

11. Byakado City
Manager: Muteesa Mbogalay. 56 years old. 7th season at club.
Formation: 5-1-2-1-1
GK #1 Chioke Okafo. Age 23.
RWB #2 Chibuzo Chydy. Age 25.
RCB #5 Orjea Mazi. Age 29.
CB #4 Akabueze Jajah. Age 32. Captain.
LCB #3 Obasie Chinuah. Age 33.
LWB #6 Obi Ozioma. Age 24.
CDM #8 Oluchi Jelan. Age 30.
RM #11 Jelanee Chinelo. Age 25.
LM #7 Obea Ndidi. Age 22.
CAM #10 Songezo Pityana. Age 30.
CF #9 Chee Ijendu. Age 31.

12. Kigagana Mountaineers
Manager: Ekene Afamefula. 73 years old. 9th season at club.
Formation: 4-4-2
GK #1 Uchey Jajah. Age 30.
RB #2 Fumnanya Jel. Age 28.
CB #5 Jaja Chijioke. Age 29.
CB #4 Jelanie Chinedu. Age 30.
LB #3 Obee Uchechea. Age 24.
RM #7 Obasea Uchea. Age 33.
CM #18 Chijindum Obasey. Age 32.
CM #14 Chidea Ekene. Age 31.
LM #11 Chydee Orjee. Age 30
RS #10 Jelanee Chinuah. Age 24.
LS #9 Fezile Jabavu. Age 34. Captain.

by **Banija** » Thu Mar 22, 2018 2:31 pm

Banija's Regional Soccer Leagues - Season 2

The Royal Banijan Soccer Association is proud to present the second layer of Banija's soccer pyramid- the Regional League system. The Northwestern League, the Lower Coastal League, the Northern League, and the Southern League, combine to criss-cross the entire nation. Each league is fully professional, and each team, besides Capitol City Football Club, is fan owned- as opposed to the BSL, which is a franchise based league.

This will be the second season of full integration of the Regional League System into the Banijan soccer pyramid. These are the leagues where RBSA participants in the UICA Serie B Champions Cup come from. Each league champion enters a playoff, where they are randomly drawn against another league champion. There are a pair of two-legged matchups- the winner of each qualifying directly for the Serie B Champions Cup. The two losers go to a Playoff Final, a one-off match played at the Stadium of the Restoration, where the winner takes the RBSA's last spot in the Serie B Champions Cup, and the loser does not participate in international club competition.

There is no promotion/relegation in the Banijan soccer pyramid, so the last place teams do not get promoted, and league champions do not get promoted to the Banijan Soccer League.

The Northwestern League
Regions- Moravica & Busoga
1. AFC Kosactus. AFCK. Location: Kosactus, Moravica. Color: Red.

2. Taramazna United. TMU. Location: Taramazna, Moravica. Color: Blue.

3. Eastern Moravica Football Club. EMFC. Location: Iziarad, Moravica. Color: Scarlet.

4. Jaribga Soccer Club. JSC. Location: Jaribga, Busoga. Color: Blue.

5. Tezirbu Foxes. TZF. Location: Tezirbu, Busoga. Color: Green.

6. Slobochia Bears. SBB. Location: Slobochia, Moravica. Color: Purple.

7. Koszagard City. KZC. Location: Koszagard, Moravica. Color: Orange.

8. Barmos United. BU. Loction: Barmos, Moravica. Color: Green.

9. Corizova United FC. CUFC. Location: Corizova, Moravica. Color: Gold.

10. Suwawa FC. SFC. Location: Suwawa, Moravica. Color: Green.

11. Tripoli Foresters. TRI. Location: Tripoli, Busoga. Color: Green.

12. Nezrouch Rovers. NR. Location: Nezrouch, Busoga. Color: Blue.

THe Lower Coastal League
Regions: Ankole, Kitara, National Capitol Region
1. Kwadama Dojo. KWD. Location: Kwadama, Ankole. Colors: Red.

2. Kabakono City. KBC. Location: Kabakona, Kitara. Colors: Blue.

3. Nsade United. NDU. Location: Nsade, Ankole. Colors: Blue.

4. AFC Akwadua. AKW. Location: Akwadua, Kitara. Colors: Blue.

.
5. Dimbogourou Sporting Club. DSC. Location: Dimbogourou, Ankole. Colors: Purple.

.
6. Kiala Athletic Society. KAS. Location: Kiala, Kitara. Colors: Pink.

7. Zakuta City. ZKC. Location: Zakuta, Ankole. Colors: Green.

8. Dioro Athletic. DJA. Location: Djoro, Kitara. Colors: Green.

9. Baleweye Football Club. BFC. Location: Baleweye, Ankole. Colors: Turquoise.

10. Mamari City. MMC. Loction: Mamari, Kitara. Colors: Blue.

11. Ogbordu Diamond Football Club. ODFC. Location: Hoima, Ankole. Colors: Orange.

12. Capitol City Football Club. CCFC. Location: Busukuma, National Capitol region(coterminous borders). Colors: Blue.

Northern League
Regions: Hangaza & Aksum
1. Igulu City Football Club. ICFC. Location: Igulu, Hangaza. Colors: Blue.

2. Luguyala Patriots. LGY. Location: Luguyala, Aksum. Colors: Red.

3. Nanami Dragons. NNI. Location: Jinja City, Hangaza. Colors: Orange.

4. Selekawe Knights. KNT. Location: Jinja City, Hangaza. Colors: Blue.

5. Garixas City. GXC. Location: Garixas, Hangaza. Colors: Blue.

6. Thayaferu United. TYF. Location: Thayaferu, Aksum. Colors: Pink.

7. Okakameb City. OKB. Location: Okakameb, Hangaza. Colors: Orange.

8. AFC Okahavi. OKH. Location: Okahavi, Aksum. Colors: Red.

9. Duntho Sporting Club. DSC. Loction: Duntho, Hangaza. Colors: Green.

10. Cerenus United. CNU. Location: Cerenus, Aksum. Colors: Pink.

11. Gadive City. GDC. Location: Gadive City, Hangaza. Colors: Red.

12. Koksho City. KSH. Location: Koksho, Aksum. Colors: Green.

Southern League
Regions: Buganda & Bunyoro
1. Umbazi Footballers Association. UFA. Location: Umbazi, Buganda. Colors: Red.

2. Dodoma City Sporting Club. DCSC. Location: Dodoma, Bunyoro. Colors: Green.

3. Hawabark Boulders. HWB. Loction: Hawabark, Buganda. Colors: Red.

.
4. Kigagana Mountaineers. KGG. Location: Kigagana, Bunyoro. Colors: Blue.

5. Busemlu Park Sporting Club. BSM. Location: Busemlu Park, Buganda. Colors: Orange.

6. Mukegara Warriors. MKG. Location: Mukegara, Bunyoro. Colors: Green.

7. Pumbasa Boars. PUM. Location: Pumbasa, Buganda. Colors: Orange.

.
8. Byakado City. BYK. Location: Byakado, Bunyoro. Colors: Orange.

9. Boufaya Ravens. BFY. Location: Boufaya, Buganda. Colors: Blue.

10. Sororo City. SOR. Location: Sororo, Bunyoro. Colors: Blue.

11. Abomfa United. ABM. Location: Abomfa, Buganda. Colors: Red.

12. Amaku City Football Club. ACFC. Location: Amaku, Bunyoro. Colors: Red.

[/quote]

by **Banija** » Thu Mar 22, 2018 2:42 pm

The Banijan Soccer League - Season 6

The Royal Banijan Soccer Association is proud to present the Banijan Soccer League to the sporting world. This is the top division of soccer in Banija, competing with gridiron football to be the nation's most popular sport. The Banijan Soccer League consists of 20 teams, the same 20 franchises as there are every year, that will compete in two different competitions. It is currently ranked 64th by the UICA, an improvement of 50 places from the last ranking. They compete in the Banijan Soccer League, which is a double round-robin league-style competition. The other major competition that BSL teams compete in is the RBSA Cup, which is a single-elimination knockout tournament with all 68 professional clubs in Banija, the 48 in Banija's regional league system and the 20 in the Banijan Soccer League.

Currently there is no system of promotion/relegation, as this is the only nationwide fully professional soccer league in the nation. The format followed for league play is a double round-robin. The format followed for the RBSA Cup is each round the opponents are randomly drawn against each other, with one side randomly being picked as the home side. All 48 regional league sides are entered first, with a one-off match in the 1st round to whittle them down to 24, and then another one off match to whittle them down to 12. Then the 20 BSL sides are entered at this stage, with 32 teams in general in the competition, and it is a single elimination competition where each match must have a winner, with the final played at the Stadium of the Restoration. The winner of the previous Banijan Soccer League and the RBSA Cup open each season with the Kabaka's Cup, the Banijan supercup.

The Banijan Soccer League currently competes in the UICA Champions Cup, the UICA Globe Cup, the Cygnus Cup, the Atlantian Oceania Champions League, and the Vilitan Cove Invitational. Currently, the BSL champion qualifies for the Champions Cup and the Atlantian Oceania Champions League, while the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th place teams qualify for the Globe Cup. If the Kabaka's Cup winner does not qualify for the Cygnus Cup or UICA competition, they will qualify for the Vilitian Cove International. If they do qualify for another international club competition, per VCI rules, the RBSA will use another acceptable form of competitive criteria, at its discretion.

The league is traditionally dominated by the 'Super 5' clubs- Istria City FC, Herzegovina City FC, Busukuma AC, Hoima Warriors, and Jinja City FC, that are Banija's 5 biggest teams in Banija's 5 biggest cities. These are the richest, most well-supported, and generally the most competitive teams within Banija. These 5 clubs generally occupy the top 5 places in the standings, in any order, at the end of every season.

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

2. Jinja City Football Club. JCFC. Location: Jinja City, Hangaza. Colors: Green & White.

3. Busukuma Athletic Club. BAC. Location: Busukuma, National Capitol Region. Colors: Red & White.

4. Hoima Warriors. HOI. Location: Hoima, Ankole. Colors: Red & Silver.

5. Mynda Electra. MSC. Location: Mynda, Aksum. Colors: Forest Green.

6. Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club. UMSC. VFC. Location: Umbazi, Buganda. Colors: Pink.

7. Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club. BRSC. Location: Dodomo, Bunyoro. Colors: Blue.

8. The Lwanga Lions. LLSC. Location: Lwanga, Buganda. Colors: Orange.

9. Askatasuna Football Club. AFC. Location: Askatasuna, Aksum. Colors: Green & White.

10. Kitara Athletic Association. KAA. Location: Sisonke, Kitara. Colors: Blue & white.

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

12. Aissa United Football Club. AUFC. Location: Aissa, Hangaza. Colors: Blue & white.

13. Isipongo Flash. IF. Location: Isipongo, Buganda. Colors: Black & white.

14. Dukuma Sporting Club. DSC. Location: Dukuma, Busoga. Colors: Purple & white.

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

16. Lakiska Sporting Club. LSC. Location: Lakiska, Busoga. Colors: Red & black.

17. Busukuma Force. BKF. Location: Busukuma, National Capitol Region. Colors: Sky Blue

18. Herzegovina Phoenix. Location: Vidizi, Moravica(suburb of Herzegovina City). Colors: Purple.

19. Busembe Timberwolves. BT. Location: Busembe, Kitara. Colors: Gray, Black, and White.

20. Bwubanza City Soccer Club. BCSC. Location: Bwubanza, Bunyoro. Colors: Blue

National Stadium
The Stadium of the Restoration

The National Stadium for a RBSA Cup final. Location: Busukuma. Capacity: 69,000.

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

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

by **Banija** » Thu Mar 22, 2018 3:31 pm

Banijan Regional League System- Season 2 Preview

Duntho Sporting Club celebrate a goal last season

BUSUKUMA- We officially have the second season coming under way in just under a few weeks of Banija's 4 major regional leagues becoming full charter members of the Royal Banijan Soccer Association. The first season of the Banijan Regional League system being full charter members of the RBSA was seen as a smashing success- the leagues in general saw a raised amount of interest, and the ratings for the nationally televised qualifiers were through the roof for the second flight of Banijan soccer. With the addition of foreign players from places like the Equestrian States, to players on the Al Qurijan national team, this league has garnered a decent amount of interest.

This season will be challenging for a number of sides. New coaches, good players moving up to the BSL, it will be a season of transition, as it always seems to be for teams in the second flight. The growing controversy around the status of the stark refusal of the RBSA and the BSL to even consider implementing promotion/relegation will loom like a shadow over the season, but all in all, the leagues are looking up. We'll do a preview for each league, as well as a preview for clubs participation in the Serie B Champions Cup, the first foray of RBSA clubs into that competition.

Serie B Champions Cup
There will be three Banijan clubs participating in the Serie B Champions Cup- Corizova United, Capitol City Football Club, and the Hawabark Boulders. Who is the favorite out of these three clubs to go the farthest in the competition? It has to be Capitol City Football Club. Arguably the biggest club in the regional league system, though, of course, the team with the deepest pockets in the regional leagues, they have just as good of a chance as anybody. They cruised through their victory over two legs against Corizova United at the end of last season to qualify for the Serie B Champions Cup, and they will be looking to make a splash in this competition.

The other two clubs, of course, are Corizova United and the Hawabark Boulders. The Boulders will be losing striker Kabir Jobateh for the competition, as after having a stellar Di Bradini Cup tournament, he has earned himself a BSL contract, and will be playing in Banija's top flight. Corizova United, which needed penalties to see off Cerenus United in the Serie B Champions Cup Playoff Final at the national stadium, will be the country's biggest underdogs at this competition. All three teams will be traversing the multiverse, and hopes will be high for all three to make a dent in the competition, to improve upon Banija's historic struggles in international club competitions.

Northwestern League
The Northwestern League has 8 teams from Moravica, and 4 from the Busoga Islands. Corizova United are going for the threepeat, which would be, of course, an unprecedented feat. This is a team filled with veterans, with their three midfielders all 32 and above, showing their experience, though their age could hurt them down the stretch. They've qualified for the Serie B Champions Cup as well, and depending on how deep they go in the competition, it is quite possible that the champs could wear down over the course of the season.

If they are to fall though, who is there to take their place? Suwawa FC made moves this summer, hiring Estève Palomer out of Nuovo Juvencus to be the man on the touchline once the season starts. He is a quality manager, and the fact that they went all the way to Nuovo Juvencus to hire a manager shows that they are serious about winning. Another team to watch out for are the Tezirbu Foxes, where the club seems like a massive family affair. With the manager's son as the starting goalkeeper, and the manager's grandson, who is the goalkeeper's son, going to break through to the 1st team, this is a team on the rise and surely will be one of the teams to beat during the season/.

Southern League
The Hawabark Boulders are the most intriguing team to follow in the Southern League, trying to repeat as league champions once again, and get back to Serie B Champions Cup competition. The Boulders have to deal with a big loss- star striker Kabir Jobateh, after having a stellar Di Bradini Cup, in which the Vijana Kadongo Kamu won a bronze medal at that tournament, is now in the big leagues. He signed for the Busembe Timberwolves, which is definitely a big loss for the Boulders.

That makes the league far more open this year. Who is going to challenge them? Italo Cola of Juvencus was hired as the Sororo City manager. He hails from a nation with a solid soccer tradition, as Juvencus are the defending champions of the Cup of Harmony, so expect Sororo City to mount a serious title challenge. Another team to watch is one at the very end of the table- Byakado City. The singular worst team in the regional league system, gaining only 15 points in 44 games, and just 2 wins, they have nowhere to go but up. We'll see if they improve, but if their season is like the last, expect them to clean house soon enough.

Northern League
And for the True North. The one league to not send a qualifier to the Serie B Champions Cup, there will be much more pressure for them to produce a league champion that will qualify for international competition. Cerenus United had a solid season, but they were eliminated in the cruelest of ways. Going up 2-0 at home in the first leg, only to fall 3-0 away from home, then fall 8-7 on penalty kicks to Corizova United at the Stadium of the Restoration. Who will make the effort from the Northern League this season?

There are quite a few competitors. One, of course, is Igulu City. They had a very disappointing season last year, finishing in fourth place when they were aiming much, much higher. They will be gearing up again this season, and the question of whether or not they can get better remains to be seen. Abraham Akampurira, a former national team starter who played in World Cup Qualifying in the 74th and 75th cycles, is the team's new, first year manager. Always known as a brilliant mind, he inherited largely the same roster as last season. Will he be able to get Igulu City over the hump? Or will it be another dark horse contender?

Lower Coastal League
Lastly, but definitely not least, the league that covers our nation's capitol. The Capitol City Football Club are the massive favorites to win this league for the second time, as the regional league system's biggest- and richest- club. Capitol City Football Club are the massive favorites to win this whole thing, but then again, they are a team in transition. Longtime owner Alexander Berry, the only team in the regional league system not fan-owned, is going to retire as the manager at the end of the year, and is likely to sell the team. Will they be distracted with all that over their heads?

They are a team with Banija's oldest professional footballer, with Sarjo Ceesay at 43 years old, and somehow still kicking. We imagien, that with the added mileage of the Serie B Champions Cup, he will wear down sooner rather than later this season, hut you never know with some players. Some people are able to keep it going, and defy basically all the odds, and that is what he has done. Are there any other competitors, or is this a coronation in Berry's final year? We expect a coronation, unfortuantely, but we're sure a team like Kabokono City would have a word or two to say about that.

And with that, we have our, however brief, previews of Banija's 4 regional leagues. What is next, of course? It will be our team-by-team preview of the Banijan Soccer League- who will perform in season 6?

by **Banija** » Fri Mar 23, 2018 9:23 pm

Banijan clubs take a large step forward in international competition this summer

Istria City FC players celebrate a goal in the Globe Cup Playoff Round

BUSUKUMA- It was a stunning summer for Banijan soccer, wasn't it? The Kadongo Kamu had a stunning run to the quarterfinals, defeating rivals Eshan in a penalty shootout in the Round of 16, avenging a 5-1 loss in the group stages to the same opponents, and paying them back for Eshan's elimination of Banija in World Cup Qualifiers. And then, of course, the legend of Gitonga Kahara grew with the Vijana Kadongo Kamu, as the U21 national team could not stop scoring en route to a third place finish in Valanora for the Di Bradini Cup. Several regional league players earned BSL contracts, and Gitonga Kahara, the Golden Boot winner for Project Olimpo, earned himself a contract with Polaris- where, so far, he is lighting up the pitch.

We will review how each club did- round by round- during their foray into international competition this summer. The RBSA had 8 different clubs participating in 6 different competitions- an d, of course, we can say that the season went well for Banijan clubs, as the push for international relevance for the Royal Banijan Soccer Association continued to grow stronger and louder.

1. Umbazi Metropolitan SC

Vilitian Cove International Preliminary Round
1st leg: Umbazi Metropolitan SC 2-3 Maal Daemons(MRN)
2nd leg: Maal Daemons(MRN) 0-0 Umbazi Metropolitan SC (Umbazi Metropolitan SC eliminated 2-3 on aggregate)

Umbazi Metropolitan SC was out of international competition almost as quickly as they entered. Entering the second Vilitian Cove International, they qualified for the competition as they were the most improved team in the Banijan Soccer League in Season 5. As, of course, they were not one of Banija's Super 5 clubs, expectations were low, and, true to form, they were quickly eliminated from the competition, falling in the preliminary round of qualifying, just 2 weeks before the start of the season. They played in a two-legged affair with the Maal Dæmons of Mriin, and fell by a score of 2-3.

The first leg was at Buganda Regional Stadium, and it was a thriller. Morea Zozetua scored the opener for the visitors, who are known for their attacking style of play. It was Cup of Harmony champion Demetro Laterza who equalized in the 35th minute, to take a 1-1 game into halftime. It was Zozetua who would reply again, and a 2-1 lead away from home put the visitors in business. Umbazi Metropolitan then had to be all-in, of course. The debut equalizer for Gutinho made the score 2-2 in the 70th, but Umbazi was throwing all kinds of players forward, and youngster Mako Silanii scored the go-ahead on a counter in the 90th minute, for a 3-2 away win. With Umbazi then needing two goals away from home, the task was simply too tall, and the Mriin side advanced.

2. Busukuma Athetlic Club

Globe Cup Second Preliminary Round
Busukuma Athletic Club 2–4 Tuntingone FC(EFL) 
Tuntingone FC(EFL) 0-1 Busukuma Athletic Club (Busukuma eliminated 3-4 on aggregate)

The capitol side, the leading goalscorers of the last campaign, came out in the Second Preliminary Round of Globe Cup Qualifiers. It is a brutal series of competitions to simply qualify for the Globe Cup proper, and it is a step in the right direction that Banijan clubs are not competing in the 1st round of the competition. The first leg, however, went horribly for Busukuma Athletic Club. It actually started well for Busukuma Athletic Club. In Ferran Rey's managerial debut, national team player Ansu Cisse scored on a header in the 15th minute, while 37 year old Oren Ya'akovi scored in the 40th minute, also on a header, to give them a 2-0 lead. The stadium was rocking, and everything seemed to be going Busukuma's way.

That was, of course, until the second half started. A red card in the 47th minute for Toyuwa Sall, after a harsh tackle, and with the captain out, the team fell apart. They were dominated in the middle of the pitch for the rest of the afternoon, as the midfield, without their heart and soul in the center, simply could not compete. It sounds shocking to say, but they were fortunate to "only" allow four past them in this one- physically, they could not compete. With a 2 goal advantage going home with 4 away goals in their back pocket, the capitol side needed 3 goals to advance- a herculean feat, to say the least. They fought in the second leg, but it was almost a formality as an Alanso Tamba penalty gave the team a 1-0 victory away from home, even if they did not advance.

3. Herzegovina City FC

Globe Cup First Preliminary Round
Herzegovina City FC 0-2 Terohiku Red Steel(DKI)
Terohiku Red Steel 2-2 Herzegovina City FC (Herzegovina City FC eliminated 2-4 on aggregate

Cygnus Cup Preliminary Round
Herzegovina City FC 2-0 Exton F.C(APX)
Exton F.C(APX) 4-2 Herzegovina City FC (Herzegovina City FC, with a 4-4 aggregate score, advances 2-0 on away goals)

The Season 3 and Season 4 champions, who were the previous trendsetters for the RBSA in UICA competition, simply could not hold up the standard in the Globe Cup this season for the Banian Soccer League. They, alongside Busukuma AC and Umbazi Metropolitan SC, started the two-legged tie at home and struggled on their home pitch, falling 2-0 to Terohiku Red Steel from Damukuni. This matchup, very early in the summer, as it was the first of five qualifying rounds before the group stages of the competition, saw Herzegovina City FC fight back for a 2-2 draw in the second leg, but it was too little, too late.

5 weeks later, Herzegovina City FC showed that they had learned their lesson. At home in the Cygnus Cup Winners Cup, qualifying for the competition virtue of winning the RBSA Cup, they were able to win 2-0 against Apox in the preliminary rounds of that competition. This, of course, for the first competitive win of the Brian Emerson era, the 74 year old Cosumarite manager who is replacing Kolt Freegan. Season 5 league MVP Aaron Aiza scored the opener in the 37th minute, and Lucas Lucius Vit buried the opponents on a counter-attack in the 83rd minute.

It was the second leg, however, that was the exciting part of this tie. Herzegovina City FC went into the leg with a pretty good chance to advance, but knowing that they'd have to fortify the defense against Exton FC. They, however, failed to do that, and the side from Apox fought their way back into the tie, taking a 2-0 lead into halftime. It was always going to be a tough slog for Herzegovina City FC, but the match had a brilliant ending. 32 year old Elias Abate, who is seeing himself getting pushed off the national team in favor of the young superstar Gitonga Kahara, scored on a 51st minute penalty to give the team a 3-2 lead on aggregate- and a 1-0 lead on away goals.

Exton F.C. would then need two goals. But, of course, they would get them. A pair of goals at River Exe Ground in the 60th and 65th minutes, from the home side, gave Exton F.C. a 4-1 lead in the game, but most importantly, a 4-3 lead on aggregate. Herzegovina City FC would have to throw all kinds of numbers forward to try and win this competition. They did what they could do in that situation- in particular, Zerzubar tried to score on a counter in the 77th minute, but Kasekende made a miraculous save to keep it 4-1. But an 82nd minute curling free kick by Abajan attacking midfielder Jackson Oglobelo made it level on aggregate, giving the Banijans a 2-0 lead on away goals, which they would hold onto.

The RBSA Cup Champions will advance to the first round of the Cygnus Cup, where they will be massive underdogs against the Brookford Otters of Nephara- that two-legged affair played in weeks 7 and 8 of the BSL season. We'll see if Herzegovina City FC can figure out a way to hold their heads high, or pull off the greatest of all upsets in that matchup.

4. Jinja City Football Club

Globe Cup Third Preliminary Round
Yûpo CCK(JSY) 2–3 Jinja City FC
Jinja City FC 2-0 Yûpo CCK(JSY) (Jinja City FC advances 5-0 on aggregate)
Globe Cup Playoff Round
Jinja City FC 2-0 Sabrefell Athletic(NPH)
Sabrefell Athletic(NPH) 1-2 Jinja City FC (Jinja City FC advances 4-1 on aggregate)
Globe Cup Qualifying Round
Falourr(EUR) 1-0 Jinja City FC
Jinja City FC 2-1 Falourr(EUR) (Jinja City FC, with aggregate level at 2-2, is eliminated 1-0 on away goals

Over the last two seasons, Jinja City FC has been the BSL's most consistent soccer team. 86 points in season 4, good enough for second place by a point and entrance into the Globe Cup. This past season, season 5, 86 points, good enough for second place- this time on goal difference- and entrance into the Globe Cup. It is consistency that makes this team strong, and what makes them one of the way-too-early favorites to win the league title.

That consistency, of course, helped them become one of the first two Banijan clubs to advance in two different rounds of the Globe Cup Preliminary Rounds, all the way to the Qualifying Round, and just mere inches away from the group stages of the competition. It all started very well, when Jinja City FC advanced 5-2 on aggregate against Yûpo CCK. A 3-2 victory on the road in the first leg made things easy in the second leg, as all they had to do was set back and hit them with the counter to get it to 5-2 on aggregate.

Now, in the playoff round, one of the upsets of the tournament happened for RBSA sides, when Jinja City went against Nepharim Premiership side Sabrefell Athletic. They just went to the quarterfinals of the Champions Cup, and were expected to compete to win the competition. But they had a free fall towards the end of last season domestically, and it showed. The place was packed at Kizza IX Stadium, as every single seat was full for Jinja City FC's 2-0 first leg win over Sabrefell Athletic that sent shockwaves throughout Banija. The new strike pair for Jinja City FC played extremely well, with Deonte Bradley scoring in the 62nd minute, and Lin Moon scoring on a counter in the 89th minute.

Jinja City FC then went back for the return leg, and shockingly earned a victory at The Barbarossa. While Xíxì Êns pulled one back at the stroke of halftime, a pair of second half goals from Deonte Bradley clinched a stunning away victory for Jinja City FC- and a shocking 4-1 dismantling of Sabrefell Athletic. The task did not get any easier, when they last round before the competition proper drew Falourr of Eura. They had originally been in the Champions Cup, but had fallen to this competition after elimination in that one.

It was another heroic performance in which the club was outgunned and outmatched. A 1-0 loss at Sandstone Ground left everything to play for at Kizza IX Stadium. Deonte Bradley opened the scoring to bring the tie level in the 21st minute, and the crowd was sent into a frenzy when central midfielder Daniel Asres scored in the 65th minute. It was back and forth, a thriller, but then Jinja City fans hearts were broken as Euran youngster Joshua Affleck came off the bench and scored a backbreaking dagger to silence the crowd in the 1st minute of stoppage time, out of 4 given.

While it was a heartbreaker for Jinja City FC, and the hurt was visible on the face of Alexander Bumba, their manager, the fans stood up and applauded their valiant effort, fighting and punching hard against the big boys of the world. It will be remembered, surely, as an important first step as the BSL continues to establish themselves on the world stage.

5. Istria City Football Club

Champions Cup Second Preliminary Round - Champions Path
Istria City FC 1–4 Cherrygrove City(SOL)
Cherrygrove City(SOL) 1-0 Istria City FC (Istria City FC is eliminated 1-5 on aggregate)

Globe Cup Third Preliminary Round
Istria City FC 1-1 Arcticala Inlet(VIL)
Arcticala Inlet(VIL) 3-4 Istria City FC (Istria City FC advances 5-4 on aggregate)
Globe Cup Playoff Round
Pelethas United(COS) 2-2 Istria City FC
Istria City FC 2-0 Pelethas United(COS) (Istria City FC advances 4-2 on aggregate)
Globe Cup Qualifying Round
Istria City FC 0-1 Fadrön Flight(TAE)
Fadrön Flight(TAE) 2-2 Istria City FC (Istria City FC is eliminated 2-3 on aggregate)

Istria City FC had quite a busy summer, playing 8 competitive matches between the Champions Cup and the Globe Cup. They were quickly, and unceremoniously, dropped from their first-ever foray into the Champions Cup, as they fell 4-1 to Cherrygrove City, the champions of Solsteed, in the first leg at home. There was no coming back after that one, and after playing the formality of the second leg, they went into the grind of Globe Cup Qualification- the effort to win three ties in a row, to get to the Globe Cup group stages.

The first set of matches, in the Globe Cup Third Preliminary Round, featured Istria City FC playing against Arcticala Inlet, of Vilitia. The first leg, in Banija's largest city, saw the two teams settle for a 1-1 draw. Both teams converted from the penalty spot, with Yitebarke scoring in the 60th and Arcticala Inlet converting in the 75th minute. But the second leg was wild, was crazy, and a whole lot of fun, as Istria City FC found a way, seemingly without any kind of defense whatsoever, to advance to the second round.

With the away goals rule, Istria City FC knew that they absolutely needed to score at least once, and probably twice, to advance, while getting a result away from home. What resulted was a 7 goal thriller in this leg, with both teams throwing absolutely everything they had at the competition. The two teams exchanged a pair of goals in the first half, to go into halftime tied at 2 and, crucially, allowing the defending league champions to gain the advantage in terms of away goals. 2-2 in the game, 3-3 on aggregate, and still a half to play. Yitebarke, of course, had scored both of the first half goals on the road.

The second half, Istria City FC seized control of the tie, and would not let go for the entirety of the half. Yitebarke scored his third goal of the game, and his first UICA hat trick, in the 52nd minute, by scoring on a header, to give the team a 4-3 lead on aggregate, meaning that the hosts would have to score not once, but twice, to advance and beat Istria City FC. While Articala Inlet scored in the 63rd minute, Girma Asmelash quickly responded with a 69th minute free kick, and that was that. A 4-3 stunning road victory for the league champs, and 5-4 on aggregate, as Istria City FC advanced to the Globe Cup Playoff Round.

Istria City FC and Pelethas United battled to a 2-2 draw at the Xanadu Dome in Pelethas, Cosumar, in the 1st leg of the Globe Cup Playoff Round. It was always going to be a tough matchup for the Banijans- but they were able to fight, and ultimately, a 2-2 draw away from home in the first leg, against a team from a league with the quality of Cosumar's, was always going to be a great result for Istria City FC. They had everything left to play for at home, however, but they were going to protect their home field. An early goal from Addis Anwar in the 7th minute gave them a 1-0 lead, and the defense held. A header on a corner kick in the 58th minute by Maximiliane Purcell buried the visitors, as Istria City FC advanced to the Globe Cup Qualifying Round.

Who would be their last opponent in their quest to qualify for the group stages of an UICA competition? That's right- Fadrön Flight of Taeshan. The first leg was to be played in Istria. Unfortunately, the league champions could not defend their home field, losing 1-0 at home, and they were always going to have a large hole to dig themselves out of with that poor start- a hole that they could not climb. Still, an excellent run of play in the UICA, and it should give them confidence as they prepare for the Atlantian Oceania Champions League that will start during the season.

6. Serie B Champions Cup
Banija sent three sides to the Serie B Champions Cup, sending three of their four regional league champions, all earning the spot via a playoff- the Hawabark Boulders, Capitol City Football Club, and Corizova United. The Hawabark Boulders would be the first Banijan team to enter the fray, all the way in the first preliminary round of this competition. They advanced in the first and second preliminary rounds of the competition, before getting blasted by Helfin Fief of Cosumar, who eliminated them 7-2 on aggregate. While a terrible ending, not a bad run for the Southern League champions.

Capitol City Football Club, the Lower Coastal league champs, started in the second preliminary round, rather than the first, and also advanced twice in the competition. They advanced through the second and third preliminary rounds, before also going out unceremoniously, losing 6-2 on aggregate, losing both legs 3-1 to Hwoarang Seidoshi. It was an unfortunate way to go out, but ultimately, it was a decent run for Capitol City FC. They have work to do, of course, but it is confidence building since they are likely to be back in this competition fairly soon.

And the last, but not least, team was Corizova United. They entered the competition, not at either of the preliminary rounds, but at the Playoff Round, the latest possible stage to enter this competiton. They won 3-1 on aggregate, with a 1-0 home win followed by a 2-1 road victory, and became the first Banijan club to ever qualify for the group stages of a UICA competition. Even if, of course, the wins in this competition do not effect your team or association coefficient. They will still be in the group stages, and have another competition to think about during the course of the season.

Ultimately, it was a good break for Banijan teams, as they did some damage during international cup competitions. And, of course, there will be three playing in competitions during the season- Herzegovina City FC, during the Cygnus CUp Winners Cup, Corizova United, in the Serie B Champions Cup, and Istria City, in the Atlantian Oceania Champions League. Will those distract and tire from their tasks at hand domestically? Or will it serve to strengthen those teams resolve, and increase their ability to win on home soil? We'll have to wait and see, and find out during Season 6 of the Banijan Soccer League.

by **Banija** » Mon Mar 26, 2018 12:07 pm

The Banijan Soccer League - Season 6 Preview

This is the official league preview, along with our predictions of the standings. We will, of course, being a team by team preview of the Banijan 'Super 5' clubs,

1. Jinja City FC

Coming off of what was surely a tiring run through three different rounds of Globe Cup Qualification, the most consistent squad in the Banijan Soccer League will be back to finally claim what they believe is rightfully theirs, after two straight seasons ending in heartbreak at the very end of the season. In Season 4, they ended the year with six straight victories, but Herzegovina City FC, who was just one point ahead of them, did the same, matching them victory for victory from weeks 33-38 at the very end of the regular season. Last season, in Season 5, the heartbreak was even worse.

They were winning the league for the majority of the season, and went into their final home game, in week 37, with a slim, one point lead, over Istria City FC, they hosted their archrivals, Aissa United, in the Battle for Hangaza's Soul. These two squads have duked it out for decades, for regional supremacy, but Jinja City FC has generally been the more dominant side. However, anything can happen in a rivalry game, and that was certainly proven here. Istria City's draw earlier that day had given an opportunity to Jinja City FC to essentially bury their opponents- but a stunning 1-0 loss at home to their archrivals put them in second place, where that was maintained on the final day.

Two seasons, 86 points each season, and 0 trophies. That is the record of Jinja City FC, and their fans are not happy about it. They've added some firepower at the front, with Deonte Bradley of Eastfield Lodge joining the squad. Is this the year that they finally win the league, after two striaght years of competing, but ultimately falling on the final day? That will be their expectation.

2. Herzegovina City FC

Kolt Freegan had an extremely successful three year period being the manager of Herzegovina CIty FC. Two league titles, winning the Kabaka's Cup, and winning the RBSA Cup. Four trophies in the last three seasons for Herzegovina City FC, which is a stunning record domestically. Of course, he has gone onto greener pastures, wanting a new challenge after conquering essentially all that there was to offer domestically in the Banijan Soccer League. he signed with the Capetown Crocs of Taeshan, becoming the first Banijan manager to ever manage a team abroad, a new milestone for Banijan soccer. Banijans are not known for their managing quality, as the only Banijan to ever manage the national team went 0-14-1 in the World Cup 73 cycle, including 12 losses from 12 games in World Cup Qualifying. Of course, there was a whole host of circumstances surrounding that, but still.

Everyone back home is wishing him the best of luck and that he has success with the Capetown Crocs. However, Herzegovina City FC had to move on, and sign a manager of their own. They have gone out and appointed 74 year old Brian Emerson as the manager of the team. Of course, it keeps up with a city tradition of Cosumarite head coaches, as Horace Browning of Northern Moravica was their head coach for 6 seasons, on the gridiron, before his recent firing. He is a former player for Cosumar, and the #8 player Cosumar national team player of all time by the Cosumarite Courier, their major sports news outlet. He was on the first Cosumarite squad to ever qualify for the World Cup Finals, and also helped take the team out of the World Cup 56 and World Cup 57 group stages.

In terms of his management career, he has managed at a number of different clubs. He managed at Hammerton FC in Florgania, and then at OAS Royal FC in Cosumar, where he was manager for less than 2 seasons before he was fired. This was, of course, followed by his hiring at Versiaville, which he got promoted to the top flight in Cosumar, and was able to maintain the club's longest sustained spell in the top flight. Herzegovina City FC will be an interesting challenge for him, then. He is not known for barging through the transfer market, and that showed this summer, when his only signing was Lucas Lucius Vit, out of Natanians and Nosts. He is looking to win a league title, and Herzegovina City FC, with a winning pedigree, will be expecting one.

Can he do it in the twilight of his management career? It depends how long he stays at Herzegovina City FC. Another interesting challenge for this club, of course, will be their participation in the Cygnus Cup this season. It might be short, as they are playing the Brookford Otters of Nephara, the multiverse's top ranked association, but we'll see if the extra competition wears them down.

3. Hoima Warriors

For three straight seasons, the Hoima Wariors have not been able to find a way to finish in the top 4 of the Banijan Soccer League, and clinch a place in UICA competition. 8th place in season 3, then two straight 5th place finishes for the storied club. For a club that regards itself as Banija's premier club, that is a 'Super 5 club', that has created an atmosphere of crisis. The club is certainly being run that way. They have a new manager, yet again- their fourth since the beginning of season 3, which is easily the most out of any all 20 BSL clubs. The man charged with the task of bringing the Hoima Warriors back to the UICA, and crucially, getting UICA money, is Pons Blaise of Nuovo Juvencus. A questionable hire, he was their third target, with Wilfred Lidgley of Apox going to the Audioslavia National team, and Skorji Oslograd going to the Askari Union National Team. You can't compete with international management offers, can you? And that leaves Hoima Warriors with Pons Blaise.

He had an offer to manage the Juvencus national team, an offer he declined. They, of course, ended up being the champions of the previous Cup of Harmony. The 57 year old has been critically acclaimed in both Nuovo Juvencus and Juvencus, managing FC Piluzzi to their only Juvencus cup victory in history. He, of course, will be entering probably the highest pressure job in Banija- a Super 5 club that has not shown Super 5 quality for three seasons in a row, and has been shut out of the UICA completely for the past two seasons. Former national team player John Katumba, now age 36, will captain the squad, as they will look for their first UICA appearance in a very, very long time. They have a new strike pair heading the front line, namely Andrey Soltykov of Arioslavia, and Derick Mason of Schottia. A 22 year old striker and a 32 year old striker, we'll see if that thunder and lightning combination can produce quite a lot of goals.

The Hoima Warriors certainly have the talent to finish in the top 4. 34 year old central midfielder Flomo Osei is also a former national team player, and left back Idowu Kwandani also played for the Banijan national team, and has a strong case to compete in the World Cup 80 Qualification campaign. They don't just have three aging stars though. With players like Julian Turner of Dunnes, in his prime at 25, as well as Samba Ndaw, who is a fringe national team player, and Wenceslaw of Cosumar, who was an All-Pro defender last season, coming back, they are primed to finally break through. Or, of course, if they do not break into the top 4 this season, we can expect the same exit for Pons Blaise that Gabriel Vincent, Orlando Juarez, and Jan Cassallerus had- being shown the door.

4. Istria City Football Club

71 year old manager Erechtheus Condos is coming back for his final season, as he wanted to taste Champions Cup play this past season. He took this team on a surprise title run last season, edging out Jinja City FC on goal difference on the final day of the season, helped in the season's penultimate week by a massive upset of Jinja City FC on their home field, by Aissa United. The team had a good run through UICA play, playing in 8 matches. They were knocked out of the Champions Cup fairly quickly, but a pair of victories in the Globe Cup took them on the edge of the group stage, But there is still plenty more to play for, as the AOCL group stages will take place throughout the entire first half of the BSL season.

We think that competing in two competitions, for this long, will ultimately wear down Istria City Football Club, and that their play will suffer in the league. However, we still think that they can finish fourth? Why? There is plenty of talent, and with the manager coming back, it will not be a huge let down for the club. National team attacking midfielder Girma Asmelash will be leading the attack, along with lone striker Assefa Yitebarke, both returning. They signed Atsushi Ryu out of Dunnes, and have an extremely young pair of wingbacks, with Ensa Camara 22 year old and Ephrem Selassiee just the young, ripe age of 20. They have solid players, and they will expect to get back to UICA competition for the third straight season. However, it will be too tall of a task to ask them to repeat as league champions.

5. Busukuma Athletic Club

Busukuma Athletic Club, with Istria City FC's title, is now the only Super 5 clubs to have not won the Banijan Soccer League. That said, the capitol club is expected to fall this year. Longtime manager Sarh Sarr retired, after over 15 seasons with the club, and now Ferran Rey of Juvencus is the team's manager. He is seen to be destined for managing greatness, bringing AC Pomena their first-ever league title in Juvencus, and this is probably going to be a stepping stone. He seems to be a good fit with Busukuma AC, emphasizing the attacking football that the club is known for back in his home of Juvencus, and the young manager is definitely goign to go places.

However, his form of football needs time to be learned. So we expect that this season will be a transition season for him, quite rough. This team is probably still quite old for his liking. He picked up Oren Ya'akovi of Oontaz off of the transfer market, a 37 year old striker to replace Saah Desta, a 37 year old striker who had a resurrection last season, after finally not playing for the national team. Now, the core and the building blocks of a long-term power are there in Busukuma. Alanso Tamba, after a stellar Di Bradini Cup, is signed with Busukuma AC for the next two seasons. Ansu Cisse, a national team player, is signed long-term with the club, and is tipped to be the side's next captain, after Toyuwa Sall retires. Phumelele Stofile is only 23.

He was a late hire, however, and he would probably need another transfer window to truly transform the roster. We imagine that he will spend a lot of time pushing out some of the older players- Sall & Ya'akovi, etc... all expect to be in their final season in a Busukuma AC uniform. A team that was one of the oldest in Banija needs to get younger, and while the task is well on its way, it is certainly nowhere close to being done. Ferran Rey will be given time at Busukuma AC, however. Their owners are patient, and while they want that elusive title, they want a long-term dynasty more. With all of that surrounding the club, we imagine that this will be the year that they miss out on the UICA, and the Hoima Warriors take their spot.

6. Umbazi Metropolitan SC

We expect that this team will stay on the rise, and will go all the way up to sixth place- the best non Super 5 club in the country. They became the first non Super 5 club since Askatasuna FC, all those years ago, to participate in international club competition, as they participate in the Vilitian Cove International during the summer. While they were quickly eliminated in the preliminary rounds, and they lost star midfielder John Tewedros to a richer club in Apox, they are known as a team that is certainly on the rise.

There is talent on this team, and the management has ambition. Gutinho was recently signed, out of the Western Isles, as well as Araiy out of Danier, just 23 years old. This means that the club has 5 foreign players on their team, one of the highest numbers in the BSL- even more than a couple of the 'Super 5' clubs. Their experience playing internationally this summer, even if it was just two games, is certainly going to help them grow, and we expect them to do some serious damage this season. While they won't break the Super 5's stranglehold on the Top 5, and they certainly won't become the first non-Super 5 club to participate in UICA competition, they will still be an intriguing squad to follow.

7. Herzegovina Phoenix

The Phoenix are generally known as the best non-Super 5 club, and will be gunning to break into the top 5. They showed that they have the ambition to break into the top 5, signing Mark Grayson out of Nephara to be the club's manager. The two seem to be a match made in heaven. Herzegovina Phoenix, a club trying to be greater than they are, paired with one of the most ambitious managers out of Nephara. He has a history at a various number of clubs in Nephara, including North Sabrefell and somehow kept the East Laithland Harriers in the Premiership, when they were repeatedly threatened with relegation. He has the type of ambition that is to fit a club like Herzegovina Phoenix.

Of course, it is not cheap to bring somebody to Banija from the Premiership, so the pressure will be high on Grayson. However, ownership is expected to be patient, not expecting a serious play into the Top 5 until his second season. Mostly, because they spent the majority of their transfer budget on bonuses for Grayson, so they did not have a ton of money to go out and try to get top-shelf talent for him- so they will have him make do with what he has right now. What is that, exactly? Well, it is probably the oldest team in the country, in terms of the age of the players. The team has 8 players aged 32-34, and only two players under the age of 25- a 24 year old from Ceni playing right back named Vastyn Tredillick, and a 24 year old from Nephara named Lucia Silkemark. He will be doing a lot of scouting during the season, as the club will attempt to bring more talent on board for a run for a spot in the top 4 in season 7, rather than season 6.

8. Bunyoro RSC

Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club are known more for their powerhouse lacrosse team, rather than their foray into this sport, but here we are- their preview for this season in the Banijan Soccer League. This team has a running continuing theme- the lack of the ability of the RBSA to identify and produce young talent, yet another team with a majority of the starting lineup above 30 years old. Bunyoro RSC is not going to make a title challenge- but they are a team that is always in the top half of this league, and are a team that is interesting to follow.

The one player that everyone will be following is Okonkwo Okparro. The attacking midfielder, who starred feeding the ball to Gitonga Kahara in the Di Bradini Cup as the Vijana Kadongo Kamu took home bronze medals, made what seemed like a lateral move to leave Mynda Electra. It is no secret that he is trying to leave the BSL, as he will be one of a number of players competing for the #10 jersey on the national team after Kiggwe Mavuto retires. How will he act this season? Will he be all about himself, probably the biggest black mark on his scouting report? Or will he be all in for something other than stats? His story will be interesting to watch, as even a few of the Super 5 clubs will be going after him hard during the upcoming season.

9. Kitara Athletic Association

Flip Kollia is back for his 6th season on the touchline, as Kitara Athletic Association is also back for their sixth straight season in the BSL. The classic mid-table side has a pair of 37 year olds, meaning that the team has to get younger. Alongside that, there is talent to show that they can definitely finish in the top half of the table. Ahmad Abdullah, the left midfielder from Abaja, who is just 21, has some potential that bigger clubs will be watching out for. They have young players from Kita-Hinode and Audioslavia as well, showing the skill of their international scouting. While a top half finish is expected from this side, their older players wearing down over the course of a 38 game season could mean that they could free fall, allowing room for other sides to make a big leap.

10. Lwanga Lions

The Lions lost their last six games of the season last year, en route to a 17th place finish. And now, of course, we are predicting them to jump all the way to 10th? Yes, we are making that ambitious of a prediction. There is something special brewing in Lwanga, and want to end their status as a laughing stock within Banija. Former national team center back Simon Wanjala is taking his first year as the manager of the club, and he has quite a club around him with a lot of extremely young talent. Josef Lawerenz, who is just 18 years old, is his startign right winger, and he played in the Di Bradini Cup for the Equestrian States. Phineas Antwell, who played for Bwubanza City SC last season, is on the team at the other wing spot, and the 21 year old is talented, even though he did not make the Cosumar Di Bradini Cup roster.

Of course, they also signed exciting prospect Xavier Melchoir, out of Taeshan. When the 16 year old hits the field, he will become the youngest ever prospect to play for a BSL team- and the RBSA passed a rule where he is likely to keep his record, saying that all players that appear in the BSL play must be at least 16 years of age. The young trio up front is anchored by 34 year old striker Gizaw Mignote, who will provide experience to what is probably the youngest attacking group in the country. We expect the team to be inspired by this infusion of youth talent, and long-term, they are a team to watch to eventually break the stranglehold of the Super 5 on the Banijan Soccer League.

11. Busembe Timberwolves

The team that finished in 10th place last year will fall one place, back to eleventh. They signed Kabir Jobateh out of Hawabark, the Southern League Champions and after his successful Di Bradini Cup tournament, where the squad simply could not stop scoring. Ultimately, this is also a classic mid-table side. They have some imported talent, like Brendon Ediomgi out of Abaja, and a pair of Amazonestans, but this team is what this team is- solid, consistent, they won't finish at the bottom, but they won't compete for a league title either. Ultimately, the team will compete for relevancy, and we do not expect the team to fall very far down.

12. Isipongo Flash

We predict that the Flash will remain in 12th place for the second straight season. Chuka Belonwu is entering his second season, and he is expected to seriously tinker with the squad. He has 5 foreigners in his starting XI, and we imagine that Jared Clotterman, his major new signing, will need some time to acclimate to his new surroundings. The major new signing is Devontan international Noah Lamont Hill, the striker from Jinja City FC. Will he perform here? We expect that he will help the team's goalscoring abilities, but it is always tough to estimate the impact of one player. A 12th place finish seems fair for the Flash, and we'll see how things play out during the season.

13. Aissa United Football Club.

The highlight of this clubs season, of course, was denying their archrivals a championship at the very end- a 1-0 victory, on the road, over Jinja City FC in week 37, was the undoing of Jinja City FC's march back to another league championship. An opportunity to bury Istria City FC turned into their own undoing at the hands of their archrivals, and Aissa United fans spent quite a bit of time gloating about it. However, now we must look forward to the next season, when Aissa United must focus on the full slate of games. They are a mid-table side, but of course, capable of pulling off quite the upset, like they did last year. Can they translate that into a cup run? Who really knows, but it wouldn't be out of the realm of possibility for one big win to jumpstart this franchise.

14. Mynda Electra
It was always going to be tough sledding for this team last season, with their ownership in turmoil, and the team under threat of being shut down as collateral to pay the debts of Matthias Mutebi. But how fortunes have turned, right? Who would've thought, that mere months later, we'd see Matthias Mutebi become the Katikiiro(Prime Minister) of Banija, and the club become one of the first two Banijan clubs to be owned by a foreign entity. Electra, a company in Damukuni, have purchased and renamed the club after their company. They are a power provider within Damukuni, though they are clearly ambitious as it shows with the purchase of this club.

With getting that situation situated, they did not have a chance to be very active on the transfer market last season. But now that the club situation is stabilized, we expect the new owners to be more on top of turning this team into a winner. We imagine Jose Gonzalez- a fine manager, out of Amazonesta- to not last the end of the season barring some sort of miracle(UICA play), so we expect this to be an audition for him elsewhere. In fact, we expect this to be an audition for the entire squad. 10 out of the club's 11 players in their starting lineup are above the age of 30, meaning that we expect the club to be moving on from them. It'll be a rough transition season, but expect this to benefit them greatly going later.

15. Rukunbi FC

Istria's "other club" is a lot less ambitious than their neighbors within the city, and it shows, as the club from Western Istria almost always finishes in the bottom half of the table. We don't expect that to be any different this season, to be quite honest. Everything is essentially the same for the club- the managers, the starting XI, not much has changed to expect that they will finish in a different spot. Keep an eye out though for any Istria derbys. Those are always massive games in Banija, because of what rivalries mean here in this country, and a couple of wins over the defending champs would absolutely make Rukunbi FC's season. Expect them to focus their energies on the RBSA Cup, as theres nothing like a cup run that can excite your fan base, when your crosstown rivals are clearly the superior squad on the pitch.

16. Askatasuna FC

The original cup champions haven't done much of anything since Chibuzo Afolayan left the club for greener pastures, to play for AFC Corvistone in Nephara. He's now playing in one of the world's most competitive leagues, earning awards in a second-flight division that is better than a lot of top flights. What is left for Askatasuna FC, then? Well, there is more young talent in the offing for this club. Martin Lucey of Dunnes, is only 19 years of age. Banijan teams who want a young wide midfielder are going to watch this player for the second straight season, seeing if he will fit into their system. While he's there for now, we don't expect that he will stay there forever.

What are teams that are interested in him? Well, quite a few, but expect the Hoima Warriors to lead the race to get this young kid. Their star right midfielder is 36, and they are an ambitious club, wanting desperately to get back into UICA competition.

17. Dukuma SC

Last season's only team that did not break the 20 point threshold, Dukuma SC is finally going to get out of the bottom of the cellar. They are the other team owned by foreigners, as the Karimi family bought the team, and Yaser Karimi, out of Al-Qurija, is the team's new manager. The family has deep pockets, and this might be Banija's richest team- in Dukuma, of all places, simply because of the deep pockets of the Karimi family. Now, of course, Dukuma SC is known for its dysfunction, known for its being pathetically bad, and therefore, it is difficult to recruit. Once they install more family members on the business side, however, we expect them to go harder after star players, probably overpaying in the process, to compete again.

For this season though, we are simply going to predict that they will not get last place. The family has deep connections in their home country, and we expect the club to heavily recruit the Al Qurija national team players that are currently scattered throughout Banija's regional leagues. They've signed a few players, like Kurtis Southwell, who will get them out of last place, but they will need another transfer window to really get going.

18. Busukuma Force

The capitol's second club is often a side that is said didn't deserve to be in the BSL in the first place, and that Capitol City FC should have been up instead. However, here are the Busukuma Force, and they are here to stay. Captained by Chase Page, this club has neither the resources to compete internationally, with 7 players at least age 34 and the youngest player on the team 26. You could say this is a reflection of the manager, who does not manage the squads as he should, but it is what it is. The Force will look to prove that they belong, as there are rumors floating around that other BSL owners would prefer Capitol City Football Club in the BSL, as opposed to the Force. Unfortunately, it won't be the league that rescues the Force- maybe it will be the Cup? Regardless, don't expect much from the capitol's second club/

19. Lakiska SC

Another poor year for Busogan clubs, as Lakiska SC will likely finish in 19th place during the league. There is no way around it- this is the least talented team in the league. How come they won't finish in 20th, then? Simply because Tibebu Eyoel has always managed to get this team to overperform, as unlikely as that sounds. They are not an ambitious club either, with owners who are known for being apathetic and simply wanting to make a profit, and not do much more. We'll see how they do this season, but don't expect much of anything from the Busogan side.

20. Bwubanza City Soccer Club

A team that had the worst offseason out of any team in the league would deserve to finish in last place, and that is likely what will happen to this squad. This is a team that let both of their young wingers go to different teams, and replaced them with a pair of 33 year old wingers. Phineas Antwell is now on the Lwanga Lions, and Alanso Tamba is playing for a Super 5 club- while Bwubanza City SC is left holding the bag. It has turned the fans against Tessema Negasi, who are extremely angry that he simply let his two best players simply walk away from the club. This team is very old too, and with an adversarial relationship now established between the club and its supporters, we imagine that Bwubanza City Soccer Club is in for some dark days ahead of them this season.

by **Banija** » Tue Apr 03, 2018 7:03 am

RBSA Cup Play Round 1 and Round 2

The Royal Banijan Soccer Association is proud to present the first two rounds of the RBSA Cup. Banija's domestic cup features the participation of all 68 clubs in the RBSA pyramid, from the Banijan Soccer League and Banija's four regional soccer leagues. The first round exclusively features the 48 regional league sides, and the second round features the winners from the first rounds. The third round will feature the entry of the 20 squads from the Banijan Soccer League to join the 12 remaining regional league sides, for a round of 32, and it is a straight knockout tournament the whole way through to the Final.

The first two rounds take place directly before the start of the season. The 3rd round is after week 8 of the BSL season, the 4th round is after week 16 of the BSL season, the quarterfinals are after week 24 of the BSL season, the semifinals are after week 32 of the BSL season, and the Final is after the final week of the BSL season. The Final is always hosted at the Stadium of the Restoration, which is the National Stadium.

RBSA Cup Round 1
Corizova United 1–0 AFC Kosactus
Byakado City 0–1 Thayaferu United
AFC Akwadua 0–0 Koszagard City (1–0 AET)
Okakameb City 2–1 Mukegara Warriors
Luguyala Patriots 2–2 Tripoli Foresters (3–2 AET)
Gadive City 0–1 Umbazi FA
Nanami Dragons 0–3 Sororo City
Kabakono City 0–1 Nezrouch Rovers
Koksho City 0–0 Suwawa FC (0–1 AET)
Hawabark Boulders 2–3 Eastern Moravica Football Club
Busemlu Park SC 2–3 Zakuta City
Jaribga Soccer Club 1–0 Nsade United
Mamari City 0–0 Boufaya Ravens (0–0 AET) (2–4 pen.)
Barmos United 0–1 Cerenus United
Baleweye Football Club 2–1 Amaku City FC
AFC Okahavi 0–0 Igulu City FC (0–2 AET)
Taramazna United 0–1 Ogbordu Diamond Football Club
Capitol City Football Club 1–0 Slobochia Bears
Kitara Athletic Society 1–0 Abomfa United
Tezirbu Foxes 1–0 Duntho Sporting Club
Selekawe Knights 2–1 Pumbasa Bears
Djoro Athletic 2–1 Dimbogourou Sporting Club
Kigagana Mountaineers 2–4 Dodoma City SC
Kwadama Dojo 2–4 Garixas City

RBSA Cup Round 2
Zakuta City 1–2 Baleweye Football Club
Umbazi FA 0–0 Kitara Athletic Society (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.)
AFC Akwadua 0–3 Ogbordu Diamond Football Club
Tezirbu Foxes 1–4 Luguyala Patriots
Cerenus United 0–0 Jaribga Soccer Club (0–1 AET)
Djoro Athletic 0–0 Igulu City FC (1–0 AET)
Corizova United 0–1 Dodoma City SC
Thayaferu United 0–2 Eastern Moravica Football Club
Garixas City 0–0 Okakameb City (0–1 AET)
Suwawa FC 0–2 Capitol City Football Club
Sororo City 0–0 Selekawe Knights (1–1 AET) (6–5 pen.)
Boufaya Ravens 4–4 Nezrouch Rovers (4–4 AET) (3–1 pen.)

Five Things we learned about the Regional League sides from the first two rounds of RBSA Cup Play

1. Hawabark Boulders shock Round 1 loss may spell trouble for Season 2 Campaign

The Hawabark Boulders had won the Southern League last season, and qualified for the Serie B Champions Cup directly out of the first qualification playoff in Banija. They had high ambitions and hope for this upcoming season, with a decent performance in the Serie B Champions Cup seeing them advance twice, before getting eliminated in the 3rd preliminary round. While they lost in that round 7-2 on aggregate, it was still a good first foray into international club soccer for the club, and something that many expected them to build upon this season.

However, early signs are not encouraging for the Boulders. While they lost their frontman, Kabir Jobateh, to the Banijan Soccer League after an excellent Di Bradini Cup, there's no getting around the fact that in their first domestic game of the season, they lost at home to a mid-table side in the Northwestern League. The trouble defending in that one will mean the rest of the Southern League will be circling like sharks, trying to take advantage of their mistakes. They have quite a long task ahead of them if they intend to repeat as the Southern League champs.

2. Ermacola Dinapoli having a real impact at Jaribga Soccer Club

The new manager, from Juvencus, took the reigns at Jaribga Soccer Club to start the season. While it is only two games, of course, it is knockout competition, and it is always a good thing to be in the RBSA Cup Proper, as many Banijan pundits like to call it, to get a chance for a matchup with one of the big boys- one of the clubs in the top flight. The 58 year old was not very heralded going into the season, but he has put together a pair of solid wins in the RBSA Cup so far.

A grind it out, 1-0 home victory over Nsade United allowed Jaribga Soccer Club to advance to the Second Round, where they defeated the defending Northern League champs, Cerenus United, away from home, by a final score of 1-0 after extra time. An 103rd minute header by Ashraf el-Tabet was the difference in the match, and now they get a shot with the big boys. Of course, he'll ultimately be judged by what he does in the league, but all signs look like Jaribga Soccer Club will improve from their mid-table position last season.

3. Three of Four defending regional league champs eliminated on their home field

Just to illustrate how close the level of competition is in the regional leagues, 3 of the four defending regional league champions have been eliminated in the 1st two round of this tournament, and not by each other. We've written about Cerenus United getting eliminated by Jaribga Soccer Club on their home field, and Hawabark Boulders also getting eliminated on their home field. Corizova United, who will be playing in the Serie B Champions Cup group stage this season, lost 1-0 at home in the 2nd round.

Capitol City Football Club, who was predicted to repeat, has been cruising along. A 1-0 win in the first round, followed by a 2-0 victory in the second round. It just shows how much of a fun, chaotic season we can expect in the regional league system this year- besides Capitol City FC, three of the four regional leagues do not have an obvious favorite- which should make for a fun campaign, that is a quadruple round robin and will last up to 44 games.

4. Itala Cola making an impact at Sororo City

Another Juvencus manager having an impact, right? But Sororo City is a club with higher expectations, and of a higher quality, than Jaribga Soccer Club. But the 49 year old first year manager in Banija has had a positive impact at Sororo City, and coupled with the Boulders first round elimination, could put his team on the stage as a legitimate title contender in the Southern League. The club finished second last season, finishing just 5 points behind the Hawabark Boulders, who won the league.

Sororo City has had an excellent performance in the RBSA Cup so far. A 3-0 road victory over the Nanami Dragons in his debut showed that Sororo City was a real force to compete with in the Banijan Regional league system, and then they won a penalty shootout, 6-5, against the Selekawe Knights. That game was an interesting one. Tied 0-0 after 90 minutes, Mus'ad Asad Abdulrashid, the Al Qurijan midfielder, scored in the 95th to make it 1-0, but 38 year old striker Wang’Ombe Mũthĩnji equalized for the Knights in the 116th minute. They won in penalties, however, and will be playing in the 3rd round of this competition

5. A couple of tantalizing matchups are possible in the 3rd Round

What is on deck? The draw won't be made until after week 5 of the Banijan Soccer League, so we won't know for a while, but it is an interesting cross-section of clubs that have qualified for the 3rd round of the competition. With the 12 remaining regional league sides going to join the 20 Banijan Soccer League members, there are some very interesting matchups that are possible that would highlight local rivalry matchups. Capitol City Football Club will have a chance to draw either of the Buskuma sides in the Banijan Soccer League, which would undoubtedly be the regional league v. BSL matchup of the week in terms of the cup tie.

Umbazi FA is also in the third round. They could very well draw Umbazi Metropolitan Soccer Club, a crosstown rival, in the next round of the tournament, which would be a fun matchup. And, of course, any BSL matchups. What if we had a Herzegovina City derby in the tournament? A rivalry that, with the introduction of Nepharim manager Mark Grayson into the mix to bring the Phoenix up to par, is only going to get better? Or Istria City against Jinja City FC? Lots of fun matchups, but we'll have to wait and see which ones we will get in Banija's only knockout competition.

by **Banija** » Tue Apr 03, 2018 2:31 pm

The Banijan Soccer League - Season 6 Part I

And the league has finally kicked off! Matchdays 1-8 are underway, and, of course, the 3rd round of the RBSA Cup. A blazing start from Busukuma Athletic Club, and a porous start from the Hoima Warriors, have launched league play to begin the season. Let's get rolling!

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

What an opening weekend! 10 games, 10 winners, no draws. The shocker of the day, of course, was the debut of Mynda Electra under their new name- Mynda Electra. They sent shockwaves throughout the league, blowing the Hoima Warriors out of the water, winning by a score of 3-0 to kick off the season. The club owned by the Damukuni electric company is looking to move past the tumultous past season, where the owner got kicked out from the league and, mere months later, became the Katikkiro of Banija.

The Herzegovina Phoenix won their debut under Nepharim manager Mark Grayson, winning by a score of 3-0 over Dukuma SC. While Dukuma SC isn't the greatest competition, a debut victory for Grayson is still a debut victory. Elsewhere across the league, some notable scores were Istria City FC winning 2-0 as they raised their title banner, and a 2-1 Herzegovina City FC win over the Lwanga Lions. The young Lions had them on the ropes, but an 87th minute equalizer by Lucas Lucius Vit and an 89th minute winner by Elias Abate secured the winner for Herzegovina City FC.

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

And, of course, we weren't going to make it through an entire season without draws- though the first matchday is an accomplishment in and of itself. But largely, there were not many surprises as the Super 5 clubs all won, and the Herzegovina Phoenix, who are striving to get to their level, are maintaining pace. The Super 5 clubs winning is largely an expected outcome of the Banijan Soccer League, as the dominance of those clubs is now a regularly expected outcome of the Banijan Soccer League.

While not much of note happened this weekend, it is worth noting that Devontan striker Noah Lamont Hill had a hat trick for the Isipongo Flash- coming out with a bang against the Lwanga Lions. After leaving Jinja City FC for a smaller club, he is looking to play himself back into the lineup for his national team, and maybe a team like the Flash, with an increased focus on him as an individual, will be better for his national team ambitions.

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

There was an absolute thriller of a match in suburban Herzegovina City, as Busukuma Athletic Club defeated the Herzegovina Phoenix away from home, by a score of 3-2. Frontman Chase Pershing, for the Herzegovina Phoenix, opened up the scoring in the 40th minute, to put up the home side 1-0. In the 47th minute, just after halftime, the ancient 37 year old striker Oren Ya'akovi put one into the back of the net, allowing his side to level at 1. While Senay took a 2-1 lead for the home side in the 58th, it was the young players of Busukuma AC who would steal the show. Phumelele Stofile scoring an equalizer in the 77th, and Alanso Tamba the go-ahead in the 82nd, was enough for Busukuma to earn a 3-2 victory on the road.

While that match was thrilling, the rest of the league was not very eventful. Isipongo Flash drew Herzegovina City FC by a score of 0-0, in a ery disappointing result for the downtown team at Star Field. Deonte Bradley scored for Jinja City FC in their 2-1 victory away from home, over Aissa United FC. That rivalry, where a loss in this game cost Jinja City FC the title last season, has been dubbed as a revenge match for the bigger club, and revenge indeed it was.

Busembe Timberwolves 2–1 Isipongo Flash
Hoima Warriors 0–1 Herzegovina City FC
Jinja City FC 0–0 Lwanga Lions
Rukunbi FC 3–0 Aissa United FC
Bwubanza City SC 2–2 Mynda Electra
Dukuma SC 0–1 Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Bunyoro RSC 6–2 Busukuma Force
Busukuma Athletic Club 2–0 Istria City FC
Kitara AA 0–2 Herzegovina Phoenix
Askatasuna FC 1–0 Lakiska SC

In the first Super 5 matchup of the season, Busukuma Athletic Club draws first club, as they win 2-0 at home over Istria City FC. In his first Super 5 matchup as a member of the club, Alanso Tamba scored twice- once in the 17th, another in the 32nd, and it was enough to defeat the defending champions. And, of course, this was a day with two Super 5 matchups- and Herzegovina City FC won a terrific match, a 1-0 victory, over the Hoima Warriors. Season 5 MVP Aarón Aiza scored the winner from the penalty spot, in the 62nd minute, to seperate the visitors.

It was a solid day everywhere else. Bunyoro RSC scored a romping 6 goals in their 6-2 romp over the Busukuma Force. Okonkwo Okparro, a name to watch going into the season, scored twice, while the home side could do no wrong. Herzegovina Phoenix also won by a score of 2-0 away from home, while the Lwanga Lions went to BCEL Stadium, and found a way to escape with points, holding Jinja City FC to a 0-0 draw.

Lakiska SC 1–1 Busembe Timberwolves
Herzegovina Phoenix 3–2 Askatasuna FC
Istria City FC 2–0 Kitara AA
Busukuma Force 0–4 Busukuma Athletic Club
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 1–0 Bunyoro RSC
Mynda Electra 4–2 Dukuma SC
Aissa United FC 3–1 Bwubanza City SC
Lwanga Lions 1–2 Rukunbi FC
Herzegovina City FC 1–0 Jinja City FC
Isipongo Flash 0–2 Hoima Warriors

Herzegovina City FC, for the second week in a row, takes all three points away from their Super 5 matchup. Facing Jinja City FC, they were able to win 1-0 at Star Field. Who else could the decider be, however, besides Aarón Aiza? The wide midfielder scored once again, in the 37th minute, and that was the lone goal against Jinja City FC. On the other side of Herzegovina City FC, of course, the Phoenix also won at home, winning by a score of 3-2.

We were also treated to a Capitol City derby this weekend, with Busukuma AC visiting the Busukuma Force. However, it was the Super 5 club that would have the best of the day, who ran through the Force en route to a 4-0 victory. Of course, the 43 year old manager from Juvencus knows that winning rivalry matchups are the best way to stay popular in this country, and doing so emphatically is a great way to start his managerial career at Busukuma AC.

Busembe Timberwolves 1–0 Hoima Warriors
Jinja City FC 4–2 Isipongo Flash
Rukunbi FC 0–1 Herzegovina City FC
Bwubanza City SC 5–3 Lwanga Lions
Dukuma SC 1–0 Aissa United FC
Bunyoro RSC 1–1 Mynda Electra
Busukuma Athletic Club 3–2 Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Kitara AA 1–0 Busukuma Force
Askatasuna FC 2–3 Istria City FC
Lakiska SC 0–0 Herzegovina Phoenix

Who doesn't want to watch an 8 goal thriller with a winner? Bwubanza City SC, who lost both of their young wingers, and were expected to bottom out this season, have not had that bad of a start to the year. They scored 5 goals in a thriller against the Lions, with every neutral observer walking home happy from the entertaining matchup. In terms of games that mattered for the final standings, however, rather than two bottom half clubs, the Super 5 did well.

The Hoima Warriors lost to the Timberwolves, of course. But Herzegovina City FC won away from home, Busukuma AC won at home, while Istria City FC won on the road. And, lastly, Jinja City FC also won a thriller, defeating their opponents by a final score of 4-2. Ultimately, what was the biggest takeaway from this weekend, outside of the number of goals scored? Well, it has to be the fact that Busukuma AC has now won 6 games in a row in league play, and are cruising with a perfect record as of right now.

Herzegovina Phoenix 2–2 Busembe Timberwolves
Istria City FC 2–0 Lakiska SC
Busukuma Force 1–1 Askatasuna FC
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 1–0 Kitara AA
Mynda Electra 0–2 Busukuma Athletic Club
Aissa United FC 0–4 Bunyoro RSC
Lwanga Lions 1–1 Dukuma SC
Herzegovina City FC 2–0 Bwubanza City SC
Isipongo Flash 2–1 Rukunbi FC
Hoima Warriors 0–1 Jinja City FC

On the 7th weekend of the season, it was Jinja City FC who won their Super 5 matchup on Sunday night, with a 1-0 victory, away from home, over the Hoima Warriors. The Warriors, who have had a rough last couple of seasons in the Banijan Soccer League, and look to be a long way from the Top 5, let alone the Top 4 into UICA play, have disappointed in their Super 5 matchups this season, and this was no different. It was a mental error- an own goal by Kofa Toure, as he attempted to head it towards his goalkeeper, but it looped over his head into the back of the net.

Elsewhere in the league, it was business as usual. Bunyoro RSC put up a lot of goals again, putting up four on Aissa United FC. Herzegovina City FC won another matchup, while Busukuma AC won their 7th match in a row, against Mynda Electra. The best machup, however, may have been the Lwanga Lions and Dukuma SC. Kurtis Southwell scored within the first 50 seconds for Dukuma SC against the Lions, while Josef Lawerenz scored just 2 minutes later. However, with those two very early goals, it was a very open game, though it ended 1-1 as neither team scored again.

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

And in week 8! We had Jinja City FC open the weekend on a Friday, against the Busembe Timberwolves. They drew by a score of 0-0, against the Timberwolves, a disappointing outcome for a team hoping to do more. The Hoima Warriors finally got on the winning end of things, after losing 2 in a row, by winning 3-0 away from home at Eastern Stadium, against Rukunbi FC. The stadium is ironically named, of course, simply because it is in the Western part of a Western city.... But more on that, later.

The Herzegovina Phoenix scored a big upset victory over the defending champs, winning by a final score of 1-0 over Istria City FC. A big win for Grayson's side, as he is looking to take the Phoenix to new heights. A win over the defending champs, of course, will help in that journey. Herzegovina City FC also continued their run as the other unbeaten team in the league, winning 2-0 away from home. Bunyoro RSC keeps on piling on the goals, however, as they had another big win, this time a 3-0 victory.

Standings After Matchday 8

Banijan Soccer League          Pld   W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Busukuma Athletic Club       8    8   0   0    18    4  +14    24
 2 Herzegovina City FC          8    7   1   0    11    1  +10    22
 3 Istria City FC               8    6   0   2    15    6   +9    18
 4 Herzegovina Phoenix          8    5   2   1    16    8   +8    17
 5 Jinja City FC                8    5   2   1    12    6   +6    17
 6 Umbazi Metropolitan SC       8    5   1   2    11    7   +4    16
 7 Bunyoro RSC                  8    4   1   3    18   10   +8    13
 8 Mynda Electra                8    3   3   2    14   12   +2    12
 9 Busembe Timberwolves         8    3   3   2     7    7    0    12
10 Isipongo Flash               8    3   2   3    11   12   −1    11
11 Hoima Warriors               8    3   0   5     7    7    0     9
12 Kitara AA                    8    2   2   4     5    9   −4     8
13 Busukuma Force               8    2   2   4     8   16   −8     8
14 Rukunbi FC                   8    2   1   5     8   11   −3     7
15 Askatasuna FC                8    2   1   5     8   12   −4     7
16 Lakiska SC                   8    1   3   4     4    8   −4     6
17 Bwubanza City SC             8    1   3   4    10   15   −5     6
18 Lwanga Lions                 8    1   2   5     8   16   −8     5
19 Dukuma SC                    8    1   1   6     5   17  −12     4
20 Aissa United FC              8    1   0   7     4   16  −12     3

Five Way-Too-Early Bold Statements from the first 8 matchdays

1. The Hoima Warriors should no longer be referred to as 'Super 5'

The Super 5 clubs are the biggest soccer teams in the 5 Banijan cities that have a population of at least 1 million people. That is Istria City FC, Jinja City FC, Hoima Warriors, Busukuma AC, and Herzegovina City FC. They are Banija's most popular, richest, and consistently best clubs, competing for Banija's four UICA spots. But should the Hoima Warriors be considered super? While in Season 1, they won the RBSA Cup, and in Season 2, they won the league, consider how they've done lately, the past three seasons.

In the league, in the last three seasons, from Season 3 to Season 5, they've finished 8th, 5th, and 5th. In Season 4 they were not competing for the top 4 either- they had to scramble just to get 5th. And now, of course, after 8 games, they are 11th. It' s been years since they've mounted a title challenge. They aren't even a legitimate threat to get to the top 4 this season! The club is in a serious funk, and they've gone through managers like nobody's business. Orlando Juarez had an embarassing 7 match stretch, and Cassallerus couldnt' fix it, and now Pons Blaise is at the helm. Is the club simply not that good? They have to figure something out before they begin to fade nationally.

2. Ferran Rey is the perfect match for Busukuma Athletic Club

Maybe this isn't a bold statement- though it is only 8 weeks into the season. Still, with a perfect 8-0-0 record, what do you expect to be said? Winning their first 8 games of the season is something that has never been done in the history of the Banijan Soccer League, and they are the last Super 5 club to have not won a single trophy on the national level- the RBSA Cup or the BSL. Of course, they are trying to change it this year, though with all their success this season, they aren't running away with the league, with Herzegovina City FC just 2 points behind them.

That said, has anything gone wrong for Busukuma AC? They've taken a perfect 24 points from their first 8 matches, they won the Capitol City Derby 4-0, on the road as well, and the team is more popular than ever. Repeating as one of the top offenses in the league, with 18 goals scored throughout their first 8 games, is something that Busukuma AC has successfully prioritized. He is a young, energetic manager who is popular amongst fans, and has a bright future here in the BSL.

3. Mark Grayson is a good fit at Herzegovina Phoenix

The Phoenix are a team that has generally been seen as the highest quality among the non Super 5 clubs, and it is the last go for a number of players, as Grayson takes this season to improve the squad. That said, they are in fourth place, though it is way too early to be worrying about the final standings yet- there are too many games to be played, and too much that has to play out. Still, Mark Grayson, from Nephara, has to be happy with what his team has shown.

He is going to sign a number of younger players this offseason, and so regardless of how the season finishes, it'll be the end of the line for a few of these players at this club. But they will be trying to leave a legacy, leave a proud legacy to pass on? Can they put the Phoenix into their first foray into international club competition? It will be tough, but it is certainly a possibility.

4. Askatasuna FC's decision to sell Afolayan the "worst decision of all time"

This may not be way-too-early. This is probably, in reality, way too late. In season 1 of the Banijan Soccer League, Askatasuna FC actually finished in 3rd place. In Season 2, they won the RBSA Cup. But since then, have they done anything? In Season 3, even, they finished 5th and legitimately challenged for a UICA spot, missing out on the final RBSA spot by goal difference alone. But what happened? They decided to cash out on their star winger, Chibuzo Afolayan. A massive offer for Afolayan, $5 million NSDs, a record sale for a Banijan player, and a record sale for a BSL player, to this day, from AFC Corvistone of Nephara, was accepted, and while the club suddenly had all these funds, the club's fortunes went down the drain.

They fell to 9th place, and then last season, things took a turn for the worse, finishing in the bottom quarter- 15th. In their first five seasons, from season 1, they've finished 3rd, 5th, 5th, 9th, and 15th, and this season they've only rescued 7 points from 8 matches. Over the course of 5 seasons, they've never improved their position in the league over the previous season, and they might do so again. The club is quietly spinning towards disaster, and we are sure that they all rue the decision made, all those seasons ago, to take cash for Chibuzo Afolayan. They've never recovered from that sale. Afolayan, of course, starred for AFC Corvistone in Nephara, helping them win promotion to the Nepharim Premiership, and living in the Banijan neighborhood of Corvistone, with an estimated population of 6,000 Banijans, he seems to be a winner, AFC Corvistone seems to be a winner, but Askatasuna FC was definitely the loser of that sale.

5. Lwanga Lions youth movement will not pay off this season

The youngest team in the league has two teenage starters- a 16 year old attacking midfielder, a change that has sparked pushback in Banija over age floors for participating in the Banijan Soccer League, and a pair of extremely young wingers, had a lot of pundits excited. However, it is hard to integrate a young league for top flight soccer, especially when all three of them are not used to this country, though this is the second year here for both Antwell and Lawerenz.

Alongside a first year manager, it has been rough sledding, obtaining simply 5 points from their first 8 weeks. The Lwanga Lions are a club with a bright future with their youth movement- but that future has not arrived yet. We'll see if they can hold onto their young talent as they go forward throughout the season, convincing them to sign long-term deals to stay with the club. It is an affordable and sustainable way to eventually mount a challenge to the Super 5, as long as the the Super 5 do not poach their players.

by **Banija** » Tue Apr 10, 2018 10:01 am

Stunning home less in opening round of RBSA Cup brings new low to the Hoima Warriors

Marbue Owusu walking off the pitch after a 5-0 shellacking at home at the hands of Herzegovina City FC

HOIMA, ANKOLE- The Hoima Warriors are a proud club, in a proud city of Banija. Followers of this competition known that there are the Super 5 clubs- Hoima Warriors, Herzegovina City FC, Istria City FC, Jinja City FC, and Busukuma Athletic Club. They are the bigggest franchises in Banija's 5 biggest cities, the only cities in Banija who have a 7 digit population figure when it's all said and done. And the Hoima Warriors, arguably, are- or, should we say, were- one of the biggest of them all.

In the very first season of the Banijan Soccer League, when the competition was at its youngest, the Hoima Warriors finished in second place in the competition, a very good finish in the first league campaign. It was something that they could build on, and it coincided with a victory in the RBSA Cup- Banija's domestic cup competition. The future looked bright for a club that was establishing itself as one of Banija's biggest, a club that expected to be at least competing for trophies on an annual basis.

And then, in the second season, it all culminated when the Hoima Warriors were actually able to win the competition. The first season with 20 teams in the competition, beyond the original 16 when expansion clubs Busukuma Force, Bwubanza City SC, Herzegovina Phoenix, and the Busembe Timberwolves, saw the Hoima Warriors actually win the league outright. They won it on goal difference, of course, over Busukuma Athletic Club, the first of many close calls for Busukuma AC to actually win the competition that they have never won. They have every right to be considered among the Super 5 clubs in Banija.

Then, it all came crashing down in Season 3. There were extremely high expectations for the Warriors going into Season 3. Hoima was a strong club, expected to at least compete to hold the trophy. But, something happened to the club. The season was a complete, and utter disaster from the start. They could not get off the ground in league competition, and they finished 8th- an embarassment for a team that liked to call itself the biggest club in Banija. The 8th place finish coincided with a run to the RBSA Cup Final, their second appearance in the game in 3 years, but it was the Herzegovina Phoenix who took home the spoils that season.

Of course, then we know what happened in season 4. They fired their manager after the RBSA Cup Final for his failures in the league, even though he was just one season removed from winning the league. They hired Orlando Juarez, the Amazonestan who managed his team to seven victories in seven games en route to winning the Baptism of Fire, in their debut in the world of international football. Orlando Juarez is a capable manager, but he was a disaster for the club. He was fired after just 7 games, as they found themselves alone in last place after seven games in the league.

They went to another former international manager- this time Jan Cassallerus, the San Lleran manager who manged the Kadongo Kamu for quite a few World Cup cycles, to turn the club's fortunes around. Fortunately for them, the Banijan Soccer League does not have a promotion/relegation setup, or else the Hoima Warriors would have been in serious trouble. Cassallerus largely righted the ship, and guided the team to an eventual 5th place finish. While they never seriously sniffed the Top 4, the ship was righted, and Cassallerus, in a UICA qualification season, was to be the man to lead them into the Top 4, and back into international club competition.

It was not meant to be of course. They were in the Top 4 for the majority of the season, but they faltered at season's end. Herzegovina City FC went on an incredible tear over the last six games to leapfrog the Hoima Warriors, and the Warriors were condemned back into fifth place for the second straight season. A hugely disappointing finish, which lead them to fire Cassallerus and look abroad for a manager. They, famously, were not able to get their top international management prospects, and had to settle for Pons Blaise of Nuovo Juvencus.

They have struggled to start this season as well- after only 8 games, they are not in last, but they are in 11th place- 3 wins, and 5 losses- no draws to their name, at least as of yet. But the RBSA Cup has to be the absolute worst competition for them right now. A proud club, like this, getting eliminated in the first round that they enter? While they were playing Herzegovina City FC, nobody would have expected for the Hoima Warriors to lose 5-0, on their home field- and in reality, it could have been more.

It was a humiliation of catastrophic proportions for the club. Nobody wants to lose at home in cup competition, but it happens when a big matchup is drawn. However, to get humiliated like that- it is the last straw for a number of fans. Jon Snow, a 22 year old Univeristy student, had this to say to us after match. "I remember when this club was a big club, just a couple of seasons ago! Now we're getting run out of our own park? I don't know what to do anymore! This club is too big of a club for Pons Blaise- that man needs to go immediately, and we need to find someone else."

The mood was similar around the city of Hoima. Many younger fans were calling for the head of Pons Blaise- one told us that he 'had no idea what he was doing', and another told us that Pons Blaise 'couldn't win a high school soccer league'. But, of course, the source of the real frustration- why the long-term downward trend for a club with such promise? Team Presiden Omaku Tugalu, whose job is likely on the chopping block if they do not qualify for UICA competition this season, could not explain. "It is inconceivable that we have struggled for this long. However, we will right ourselves. Pons Blaise is the right man- if fans get behind him, then you will see results."

The Hoima Warriors are traditionally one of the most- if not the most- impatient fanbases within Banija. They have experienced a number of slights over the years- the Herzegovina Phoenix went out and got their number one manager on the international market, while the Warriors could not do so. They lost 5-0 at home in the RBSA Cup. They are in 11th place at this point in the season. What do they need to do? The Warriors are likely to try and clean house entirely this offseason. Not only the manager- but outside of Wenceslaw, the anchor of their defense, rumor has it that ownership is demanding that 'everybody is for sale'.

It will be an interesting season to watch in Hoima for the rest of the year, but this much is clear- this team is in a long-term downward spiral, and they need something- anything- to help get them back to where they feel they belong, which is the Top 4.

RBSA Cup Round of 32
Jinja City FC 2–1 Umbazi FA
Capitol City Football Club 0–3 Aissa United FC
Baleweye Football Club 0–2 Askatasuna FC
Mynda Electra 3–0 Bwubanza City SC
Lakiska SC 1–0 Busukuma Athletic Club
Bunyoro RSC 2–1 Dukuma SC
Hoima Warriors 0–5 Herzegovina City FC
Isipongo Flash 0–1 Istria City
Rukunbi FC 2–0 Luguyala Patriots
Kitara AA 0–2 Herzegovina Phoenix
Okakameb City 0–0 Umbazi Metropolitan SC (1–2 AET)
Lwanga Lions 1–2 Sororo City
Busukuma Force 0–2 Eastern Moravica Football Club
Dodoma City SC 0–1 Boufaya Ravens
Djoro Athletic 1–0 Jaribga Soccer Club
Ogbordu Diamond Football Club 0–2 Busembe Timberwolves

by **Banija** » Thu Apr 12, 2018 8:16 pm

The Banijan Soccer League - Season 6 Part II

We're finally starting to get some clarity! Here is the exclusive place for scores, and analysis, of Matchdays 9-16 as we reach the halfway point of the season.

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

Busukuma Athletic Club continued their early tear through the Banijan Soccer League, getting their league-record 9th victory in a row at the start of a BSL season. They went away from home, and a trio of first half goals allowed them to obtain a 3-1 victory over the Lwanga Lions. Ansu Cisse, Alanso Tamba, and Oren Ya'akovi were the men on target for the capitol club, who are presently looking unstoppable in the course of league play at the moment. Ferran Rey has this side playing some crazy good football, as they are in search of their first ever BSL title, now the only Super 5 club to not win a league title after Istria City FC's victory last season. It is still way too early to talk about trophies, but they are in pole position, with maximum points through 9 matchdays.

There were interesting results elsewhere across the league as well. Quite surprisingly, Rukunbi FC pulled off an upset victory, on the road, as they surprised many league observers in their 2-1 victory over Jinja City FC, as they debuted at BCEL Stadium. They played a couple of games at Kizza IX this season, as the stadium was being used for the Baptism of Fire, but with the tournament no longer needing the stadium, they are at BCEL Stadium. It is expected to be a big revenue generator, but a second half double from Robel Beselot spoiled the party.

Busembe Timberwolves 1–2 Rukunbi FC
Bwubanza City SC 1–6 Jinja City FC
Dukuma SC 0–0 Hoima Warriors
Bunyoro RSC 1–0 Isipongo Flash
Busukuma Athletic Club 0–1 Herzegovina City FC
Kitara AA 2–0 Lwanga Lions
Askatasuna FC 0–0 Aissa United FC
Lakiska SC 2–2 Mynda Electra
Herzegovina Phoenix 0–0 Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Istria City FC 3–0 Busukuma Force

Busukuma AC, with their new manager from Juvencus, faced off against Herzegovina City FC, with their new coach from Cosumar. It was Herzegovina City FC, in their visit to our nation's capitol, who got the last laugh, earning a 1-0 victory over the league leaders away from home, and causing the capitol side to drop their first points of the season. Herzegovina City FC is a team used to winning, as they are the only Banijan team with multiple league titles. While Ennis Leishman scored the game's lone goal in the 42nd minute, the home side were kept wanting, with national team member Ansu Cisse hitting the crossbar in the 73rd minute. The match was competitive and fierce, but Brian Emerson's side came away with all three points.

This was not, of course, the only match of the day. Istria City FC, the defending champs, won by a score of 3-0, cruising easily to a victory over the Busukuma Force. Jinja City FC put up a stunning 6 goals away from home- led by a hat trick from Lin Moon, with Deonte Bradley, Daniel Asres, and Sia Fall also getting on the score sheet. The Hoima Warriors had a very disappointing 0-0 away draw at Dukuma SC, as they could not break down the determined side, considered to be one of Banija's worst. An eventful matchday, of course, and we'll see if it has long-term consequences.

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

The capitol club got back into form, as Busukuma AC re-established their winning ways away from home, winning by a score of 1-0 against the Isipongo Flash. It was a tight game, but it was the type of game that teams that aspire to be champions absolutely have to win, and Busukuma AC, in a game where splitting the spoils seemed to be the fair result, got three points from their effort. It was the Schottian right back Oliver Scott, who scored his first goal of the season with a wonderful header in the 77th minute, to break the deadlock. A gritty win for a team that is looking for its first league title.

Elsewhere around the league, results were not extremely surprising. The rest of the Super 5 took care of business, as Herzegovina City won at home against Kitara, the Warriors handled Bunyoro RSC, while Jinja City FC had a slim, 1-0 victory over Dukuma SC. who for the second straight week put up a solid defensive performance against a Super 5 club looking to break them. The defending champs won away from home, and even the Phoenix won, which means no major upsets among the Super 5, or the Phoenix. All the clubs, while not gaining ground on each other per say, will be happy with taking three points today, as none of them lost ground on each other either.

Busembe Timberwolves 4–1 Bwubanza City SC
Dukuma SC 2–0 Rukunbi FC
Bunyoro RSC 2–5 Jinja City FC
Busukuma Athletic Club 0–1 Hoima Warriors
Kitara AA 3–1 Isipongo Flash
Askatasuna FC 2–9 Herzegovina City FC
Lakiska SC 2–0 Lwanga Lions
Herzegovina Phoenix 1–0 Aissa United FC
Istria City FC 3–0 Mynda Electra
Busukuma Force 1–3 Umbazi Metropolitan SC

What a game in Askatasuna! Herzegovina City FC set a BSL record with a stunning 9 goals- 9!- in their 9-2 walloping of Askatasuna FC. They set another league record with 6 first half goals scored, and they set a third league record in this game with 7 goal scorers. Aarón Aiza and Ennis Leishman both had braces, but Jackson Oglobelo, Guillermo Madruga, Lucas Lucius Vit, Lazlo Kearney, and Elias Abate all found their names on the scoresheet as well. It was a stunning victory for a team that is looking to bring back a championship trophy to its stores- how many teams can score 9 goals in a league game? Brian Emerson was all smiles after the match, saying that he expected this kind of finishing in front of goal 'every single week'.

The other big game of the week, was the Super 5 matchup between the Hoima Warriors and the capitol club, Busukuma AC. Having won 10 of their first 11, they lost to yet another Super 5 team at home, falling to the Hoima Warriors by a score of 1-0. The difference in the game was Arioslavian striker Andrey Soltykov, who scored on a beautiful cross from Julian Turner in the 13th minute, while the Warriors sealed the leaks in the back to take down the hosts. It was a big win for Pons Blaise, the embattled manager, as an away win over a Super 5 club was needed to cool the permanent hot seat that the Hoima Warriors job has turned out to be.

Umbazi Metropolitan SC 1–0 Busembe Timberwolves
Mynda Electra 2–4 Busukuma Force
Aissa United FC 0–4 Istria City FC
Lwanga Lions 0–2 Herzegovina Phoenix
Herzegovina City FC 1–0 Lakiska SC
Isipongo Flash 0–0 Askatasuna FC
Hoima Warriors 2–3 Kitara AA
Jinja City FC 0–0 Busukuma Athletic Club
Rukunbi FC 4–2 Bunyoro RSC
Bwubanza City SC 1–0 Dukuma SC

A Super 5 matchup highlighted Week 13, with Jinja City FC playing hosted to Busukuma AC, who just played in a Super 5 matchup last week. This was an entertaining, down the field, back and forth game. Alexander Bumba's squad, who are Banija's most consistent team over the last two seasons but can't seem to bring home a trophy, was trying desperately to win the game. Lin Moon had a goal disallowed for offsides in the 27th minute, and it was a borderline that saw Lin Moon earn a yellow for arguing the call. It was not meant to be for either side, however, as they split the spoils at BCEL Stadium.

Elsewhere, Istria City FC paid a visit to Aissa United FC, who are really struggling this season. Aissa United, whose win over Jinja City FC on the league's penultimate matchday to allow Istria City to overtake them and win the league, wasn't exactly thanked by Istria City FC on the field, as they put four goals past them on their home field. It was a matchup that was always going to go the way of the defending champs, and nobody was surprised. Elsewhere, Umbazi Metropolitan SC won a game 1-0 over the Timberwolves, after what seemed to be a ghost handball by Filije Kolley of the Timberwolves, as Demetro Laterza buried the game's lone goal from the spot. Of course, the BSL has not implemented VAR, so it was always going to be difficult to see, and it has led to calls to implement VAR.

Busembe Timberwolves 2–0 Dukuma SC
Bunyoro RSC 0–0 Bwubanza City SC
Busukuma Athletic Club 4–0 Rukunbi FC
Kitara AA 2–3 Jinja City FC
Askatasuna FC 0–4 Hoima Warriors
Lakiska SC 1–1 Isipongo Flash
Herzegovina Phoenix 1–3 Herzegovina City FC
Istria City FC 2–2 Lwanga Lions
Busukuma Force 2–0 Aissa United FC
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 0–1 Mynda Electra

Busukuma Athletic Club got back to their winning ways, as they took recent frustrations out on Rukunbi FC, by beating the Western Istria side by a score of 4-0. It was an interesting day for the Super 5 clubs. Istria City FC drew the Lwanga Lions by a score of 2-2, in what was a thrilling matchup. The youth of the Lions really showed their potential against the defending champs, as the squad's two teenagers- Josef Lawerenz and Xavier Melchoir- scored the team's two goals. The defense couldn't hold up, but the youth movement really showed some potential as they were lauded for earning a tough point away from home, against an opponent of such high a stature.

Of course, we were treated to a Herzegovina City derby! The derby was a thriller- between the Phoenix and Herzegovina City FC. These are two teams that do not like each other, and while they do not have the history of the Istria City derby, it is a history that is quickly being written. These two sets of fans have been going at each other for weeks, as both teams are currently in UICA places, and Mark Grayson looks like he is building a squad capable of challenging Herzegovina City FC's dominance. But in the first meeting between the two new managers, Grayson and Emerson, it is Herzegovina City FC that took the win away from home. Too much firepower offensively, as the hosts couldn't handle Aarón Aiza running around the pitch, causing havoc. The 3-1 victory firmly established, at least for now, who has bragging rights in Banija's oldest city.

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

Herzegovina City FC has really been tested these past two weeks. It is first a Herzegovina City derby, and then it is a battle of Moravica- HZCFC v. Istria City FC, a reprisal of the North v. South battles you see among the city's two schools in the NSCF. However, Herzegovina City FC took maximum points again, as Abajan midfielder Jackson Oglobelo struck true, as the team won by a score of 2-1 against the defending league champs. It was a big game, of course, and this really allowed Herzegovina City FC to establish themselves, at least for this moment in time, as the best team within the BSL.

Elsewhere, the Super 5 clubs really struggled. Busukuma Athletic Club was held to a 1-1 draw away from home against Bwubanza City SC. In the pouring rain, Bwubanza City SC was able to give their visitors lots of problems, as the teams would not be seperated. Jinja City FC also played today, drawing 0-0 with Askatasuna FC. It was a stunner of a match- Jinja City FC put 11 shots on goal, but Hakim Gukssa stood on his head- making several miraculous saves in their matchup for Askatasuna FC, as the two squads tied 0-0.

Busembe Timberwolves 1–1 Bunyoro RSC
Busukuma Athletic Club 2–0 Dukuma SC
Kitara AA 1–0 Bwubanza City SC
Askatasuna FC 1–0 Rukunbi FC
Lakiska SC 0–2 Jinja City FC
Herzegovina Phoenix 1–0 Hoima Warriors
Istria City FC 2–2 Isipongo Flash
Busukuma Force 0–1 Herzegovina City FC
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 4–1 Lwanga Lions
Mynda Electra 1–0 Aissa United FC

Herzegovina City FC have established themselves as the pace setters, winning their 7th in a row to establish a 6 point lead atop the table during the middle of the season. Mark Grayson got a massive win for the Phoenix, as the Hoima Warriors fell in Vdici. It was a tough slog of a game, but Chase Pershing, from Brenicia, scored on a penalty kick to lift the Phoenix to a 1-0 win over the Super 5 club. It was a big win for Mark Grayson, as he made yet another statement victory that he deserved to end up in the top 4 this season. They are making a surprising push so far, and if they do, Mark Grayson's "transition season" will be an unqualified success for the burgeoning club.

Istria City FC drew 2-2 with the Isipongo Flash, as the defending champs could not truly find a way to seperate themselves against the Flash. Busukuma AC was able to seperate themselves, finding a brace from Alanso Tamba to win 2-0 against Dukuma SC. And lastly, of course, Jinja City FC was able to find a way to obtain victory themselves. A pair of late goals, one in the 87th, and the second in the 89th, both scored by Lin Moon, put Jinja City FC over the top, winning 2-0 over Lakiska SC. It leaves us with some interesting standings after 16 weeks, which are the following.

Standings after Matchday 16

Banijan Soccer League         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD    Pts 
 1 Herzegovina City FC         16   14   2   0    30    5  +25    44
 2 Busukuma Athletic Club      16   12   2   2    29    8  +21    38
 3 Herzegovina Phoenix         16   11   3   2    28   12  +16    36
 4 Istria City FC              16   11   2   3    33   13  +20    35
 5 Jinja City FC               16   10   4   2    30   13  +17    34
 6 Umbazi Metropolitan SC      16    9   3   4    22   12  +10    30
 7 Hoima Warriors              16    8   1   7    21   13   +8    25
 8 Busembe Timberwolves        16    7   4   5    17   13   +4    25
 9 Bunyoro RSC                 16    6   4   6    27   24   +3    22
10 Mynda Electra               16    6   4   6    23   26   −3    22
11 Kitara AA                   16    6   3   7    16   18   −2    21
12 Rukunbi FC                  16    6   1   9    17   23   −6    19
13 Askatasuna FC               16    4   4   8    13   27  −14    16
14 Lakiska SC                  16    3   6   7    12   18   −6    15
15 Busukuma Force              16    4   3   9    15   29  −14    15
16 Isipongo Flash              16    3   5   8    16   23   −7    14
17 Bwubanza City SC            16    3   5   8    15   28  −13    14
18 Dukuma SC                   16    3   2  11    10   26  −16    11
19 Lwanga Lions                16    1   4  11    12   32  −20     7
20 Aissa United FC             16    1   2  13     5   28  −23     5

Four Bold Predictions for the rest of the season

1. Herzegovina Phoenix will not finish in the Top 4

Everybody loves to fall in love with the Phoenix, right? Well, the last three seasons, the Banijan Soccer League has seen the same four teams finish in the top 4- Busukuma AC, Istria City FC, Herzegovina City FC, and Jinja City FC. The four clubs have been Banija's most dominant over the past three years, and it shows with their stranglehold on the BSL's UICA berths. There are a multitude of reasons for their growth in dominance, but it hasn't been all rosy. Eventually, their stranglehold will be broken, as they are not separating themselves by massive margins for fifth place.

We'd all think it'd be the Hoima Warriors who would break their stranglehold, but this season, it is the Herzegovina Phoenix who are doing so. In 3rd place after 16 games, they are playing entertaining football, and even beat a Super 5 club, the Hoima Warriors. We have our prediction, however, for one reason. The Super 5 clubs always manage to assert themselves over the course of a season. It is not the RBSA Cup, where you can have a magical run. You need to be the better team. While the Phoenix have one of the top 3 managers in the like, outside of Brian Emerson and Alexander Bumba, the talent isn't there yet. Give Grayson a year, and he can break the stranglehold, but the Phoenix will revert back tot he mean and finish somewhere between 5th and 7th.

2. Herzegovina City FC will win their 3rd league title in four seasons

It was always going to be difficult moving on from Kolt Freegan, the most successful BSL manager ever. He went onto a bigger challenge in Taeshan, but the last three seasons, he won four trophies- Season 3 league title, Seaso 4 league title, a Kabaka's Cup, and he is the defending RBSA Cup championship. It was always going to be tough moving on from him, and they raised more than a few eyebrows hiring a 74 year old from Cosumar. Not a manager for the next 20 years or so, can he bring the team to new heights in 2-3 seasons?

So far, though it's early, he has this team in excellent shape. They are the only BSL team that hasn't yet lost this season- 14 wins, and 2 draws, through 16 games have a stunning 44 points out of 48 possible to start the season. It is a six point gap between first and second, and even though that means little now, they are used to playing from out in front. Brian Emerson seems to have reinvigorated this side, and a side that looked lethargic last season, hard to motivate after two league titles in a row, is not hard to motivate right now. This team is the best team in Banija right now, and we expect this trend to continue to the end of the season.

3. For the fourth season in a row, the teams making up the top 4 will remain unchanged

It is fascinating how things like these tend to work, isn't it? How have the same teams finished in the top 4 for three seasons in a row? While we have confidence the Phoenix will eventually break that, that will not be this season. We thought the Hoima Warriors, coming into the season, would get back into UICA play. That won't happen, as they are already 9 points out of the last UICA spot. Plenty of time to make up ground, of course, but do they really look like they have the ability to make up ground? I don't think so.

But those four teams will simply outclass the rest. While the Phoenix are currently in 3rd place, we believe that the team will, eventually fade. And the teams currently with them will seperate themselves from the pack. Can you seriously imagine a team like Jinja City FC, with Lin Moon and Deonte Bradley at the front, missing the top 4 entirely? A team that finished with 86 points in each of the last two seasons? There's no way. Herzegovina City look likely to run away with it, and while Busukuma AC didn't maintain its hot start, they always manage to find their way into the top 4. There won't be surprises, not this year.

4. Pons Blaise will not be the first manager fired this season- but he will lose his job before the season ends

Aissa United's season has been an absolute disaster. Gregory Banis is in his 5th season, and he is having his worst season ever. They absolutely, positively, are going to fire him extremely soon. The 71 year old Protesilaus Soter is on the hot seat as well, after his team's slide over the past few seasons, but both look likely to head for the exits before Pons Blaise. Their seasons are flaming disasters, and even though Hoima is always a hot seat sort of job, they look likely to wait until Hoima is mathematically eliminated from the top 4- increasingly likely, but won't happen for a while.

That said, Pons Blaise had a simple task- get to the UICA, or lose your job. And he didn't do it. That is the task asked of every Hoima manager, and the last three have failed. Pons Blaise will join Orlando Juarez, and Jan Cassallerus, successful national team managers, but simply could not get the job done in Hoima. The team doesn't have enough firepower, enough presence, to get the job done that they need to get done, and ultimately, will look in the mirror about why they won't finish in the top 4. We imagine they will be scouting abroad, again, for another manager, to get them back to where they belong.

Askatasuna FC upset victory over the Herzegovina Phoenix highlights RBSA Cup Round of 16

Abajan striker Alulawe Ju celebrates scoring the match winner to put Askatasuna FC into the RBSA Cup Quarterfinals

BUSUKUMA- It was an absolutely stunning Round of 16 that was experienced today in the RBSA Cup. This tournament started with 68 sides- all 48 from the regional leagues, and the 20 from the Banijan Soccer League. And now, of course, the next round will be the Quarterfinals! The business end of the tournament, the round that once you qualify for, there is a real belief and sense that you could actually win the tournament. There are only 8 teams left- some a surprise, some expected.

One odd pattern of the Round of 16 was the amount of away victories. Jinja City FC, out of the 8 teams playing at home, was the only won who won. At the new BCEL Stadium, they defeated regional league side Sororo City by a score of 2-0. Not a blowout, but two goals in the first 15 minutes allowed Jinja City FC to turn on autopilot, and rather than pummeling Sororo City, just grinding out what turned out to be a boring match. Of course, the rest of the tournament was filled with wild away fan sections,a nd upsets.

One major upset was Askatasuna FC's 1-0 victory over the Phoenix. The Phoenix are in 3rd place, while Askatasuna FC is in a well-documented free-fall down the league table. However, they were able to upset Mark Grayson's side, in Herzegovina City, 1-0. Abajan striker Alulawe Ju scored the decider, burying a free kick in the 74th minute to shock their hosts. That, however, was the first of two major upsets.

The other one had to be the elimination of the defending league champs. They were finalists in last year's RBSA Cup, but not so this year. Mynda Electra, the club purchased by the utility company from Damukuni, beat Istria City FC by a score of 2-0 in their own backyard. In a game that almost nobody saw coming, 33 year old striker Sarh Sane scored twice during the match- one from distance on a 22 yard rocket, and once on a tap in, when Gabriel Negus, the Istria City goalkeeper, mishandled the ball and it was open for an easy tap-in. The victory eliminated another Super 5 club, and increased the chances of a surprise victor in this tournament.

Other surprising results? Well, I would say the Boufaya Ravens have found themselves in the quarterfinals- though they haven't had to face a BSL side yet. They've played four regional league sides so far, and they've won all four of their matches- a pretty good record, even if it took penatlies to knock off Djoro Athletic. They will be carrying the banner of the regional leagues into the quarterfinals, to see if they can pull off the dream, the impossible- if they can beat the big boys and get a real shot at playing in Busukuma at the end of May, for the RBSA Cup.

RBSA Cup Round of 16
Eastern Moravica Football Club 1–3 Aissa United FC
Herzegovina Phoenix 0–1 Askatasuna FC
Jinja City FC 2–0 Sororo City
Istria City 0–2 Mynda Electra
Lakiska SC 0–1 Busembe Timberwolves
Rukunbi FC 2–4 Bunyoro RSC
Djoro Athletic 1–1 Boufaya Ravens (1–1 AET) (2–4 pen.)
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 0–2 Herzegovina City FC

by **Banija** » Sat Apr 14, 2018 10:01 pm

Regional Leagues reach halfway point as contenders separate from pretenders

Corizova United players discuss strategy before a free kick

It is the halfway point of the regional league system! Just as a reminder for all of our first-time readers, the regional league system is simple. Four regional leagues make up the second tier of the Banijan soccer pyramid- the Lower Coastal League, the Northwestern League, the Northern League, and the Southern League. Each league is 12 teams, and each league plays a quadruple round robin- so 44 games. It is quite the handful of games, but the system devised for four small leagues.

The winners of each league go into a playoff- with the format yet to be determined by the RBSA, which will see 3 teams earning their way into the RBSA's three Serie B Champions Cup entries, while the fourth will not play international soccer this year.

Northwestern League

Northwestern League                   Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD    Pts 
 1 Corizova United                     22   12   7   3    39   17  +22    43
 2 Barmos United                       22   13   2   7    39   22  +17    41
 3 Suwawa FC                           22   10   6   6    40   27  +13    36
 4 Tezirbu Foxes                       22    9   9   4    26   16  +10    36
 5 AFC Kosactus                        22    9   9   4    30   24   +6    36
 6 Jaribga Soccer Club                 22    6  10   6    29   26   +3    28
 7 Eastern Moravica Football Club      22    7   7   8    22   27   −5    28
 8 Koszagard City                      22    6   9   7    19   27   −8    27
 9 Slobochia Bears                     22    5   9   8    15   20   −5    24
10 Tripoli Foresters                   22    4   7  11    22   34  −12    19
11 Nezrouch Rovers                     22    3   8  11    18   29  −11    17
12 Taramazna United                    22    3   7  12    16   46  −30    16

Halfway through the season, there are 5 teams with a reasonable chance to win the league- Corizova United and Barmos United are slightly in fornt, with Suwawa FC, the Tezirbu Foxes, and AFC Kosactus nipping on their heels. Only 7 points seperate the 5th place AFC Kosactus from 1st place Corizova United. For context, 8 points seperate 6th place Jaribga SOccer Club from 5th place AFC Kosactus, to show how the top 5 of the league are the real contenders for the league title. Now, of course, I wouldn't say these results aren't exactly surprising- Corizova United and Barmos United finished 1-2 last season, and they are 1-2 right now.

The two teams we want to look into, are Suwawa FC and the Tezirbu Foxes. Can they seriously contend, over the course of the second half of the season, for the league title? The first team we'll look into is Suwawa FC. They have a brand new manager from Nuovo Juvencus- his name is Estève Palomer. He has brought the team into solid form this season, with them being firmly in the race for the Northwestern League title. They have led the league in scoring, with 40 goals so far, and getting production from Seako Mothibi and Mompati Molatedi, both players reaching their prime years but still plying their trade in the regional leagues.

The second team, of course, are the Tezirbu Foxes. Busogan clubs simply aren't as good as mainland clubs- the two Busogan sides in the Banijan Soccer League are fixtures in the bottom quarter of the league, and teams in the regional leagues don't compete for league titles. The Foxes are trying to change that. It is a family affair in Tezirbu, as manager Mohammed Al-Jeafar starts his son in net, and starts his grandson, the son of his starting goalkeeper, in the wide midfield. They've only allowed 16 goals so far though, which has to be considered a success. Can they win the league? Probably a stretch for now, but we'll see what tricks Al-Jeafar has in store for the second half, to try and overtake Corizova United.

Lower Coastal League

Lower Coastal League                  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD    Pts 
 1 Kabakono City                       22   16   3   3    39   12  +27    51
 2 Capitol City Football Club          22   15   2   5    38   18  +20    47
 3 Zakuta City                         22   14   3   5    38   16  +22    45
 4 Ogbordu Diamond Football Club       22   11   4   7    37   29   +8    37
 5 Baleweye Football Club              22   10   7   5    24   18   +6    37
 6 Djoro Athletic                      22   11   3   8    26   18   +8    36
 7 Nsade United                        22    8   3  11    25   24   +1    27
 8 AFC Akwadua                         22    7   4  11    23   29   −6    25
 9 Kwadama Dojo                        22    6   6  10    21   38  −17    24
10 Kitara Athletic Society             22    3   6  13    22   33  −11    15
11 Mamari City                         22    2   7  13    14   45  −31    13
12 Dimbogourou Sporting Club           22    2   6  14    10   37  −27    12

We move down the Banijan western shoreline to the Lower Coastal League. Here we see three teams with legitimate title aspirations- Kabakono City pacing the league with 51 points halfway through, while Capitol City FC is just 4 points behind, with Zakuta City being only 2 points behind them. Ogbordu Diamond Football Club is 8 points behind Zakuta City, so for the purposes of this discussion, we know what we already know- that there are, realistically, three teams that can win this league.

Kabokono City is pacing the league right now, ever so slightly. They have an interesting combination of veterans and youth- a teenager playing in the right midfield spot, a 20 year old playing in net, but they are making a title challenge. But, of course, this team is experienced. Bahij Wafi Saab is in his prime, and anchoring the middle for this squad. He participated in a Baptism of Fire and a World Cup Qualifying campaign as a starting midfielder for Al Qurija, he has seen it all. They are going all-in for the title this year, and they are capable of winning it.

Capitol City FC always seem like a sleeping giant, however. They have a pair of teenagers themselves in the back- an 18 year old at left back, and an 18 year old in net- though the center back pairing is a set of 33 year old identical twins. They have Banija's oldest professional soccer player- 43 year old Sarjo Ceesay, who says that he still has another season left in him. A regional league legend, he has never played in the top flight, and he wants to get back to the Serie B Champions Cup. Capitol City FC's wealth of experience makes them favorites to repeat, but you never know what can happen over the course of the season.

Northern League

Northern League                       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD    Pts 
 1 Cerenus United                      22   15   2   5    41   16  +25    47
 2 Garixas City                        22   13   6   3    30   15  +15    45
 3 Igulu City FC                       22   13   5   4    40   17  +23    44
 4 Okakameb City                       22   13   3   6    32   17  +15    42
 5 Nanami Dragons                      22   12   5   5    30   19  +11    41
 6 Duntho Sporting Club                22    9   7   6    29   23   +6    34
 7 AFC Okahavi                         22    7   8   7    32   28   +4    29
 8 Koksho City                         22    6   7   9    21   28   −7    25
 9 Gadive City                         22    4   5  13    17   39  −22    17
10 Luguyala Patriots                   22    3   6  13    10   29  −19    15
11 Selekawe Knights                    22    3   5  14    18   37  −19    14
12 Thayaferu United                    22    1   7  14    12   44  −32    10

This is probably Banija's tightest league! Only 6 points seperate the 5th place Nanami Dragons from first place Cerenus United, who, like Corizova United and Capitol City FC, are intent on repeating. That is going to make for an entertaining race to the finish line, where you'll have a huge mess of teams, probably within a few points of each other, fighting with each other for those vital points to get that trophy, and do what all the regional league teams want to do- play in international sporting competition.

There are a pair of under-40 managers to look at in this league. First, is Abraham Akampurira, of Igulu City FC. They are just 3 points off the pace, right in the thick of things in 3rd place. He is only 36 years old, and is a former player for the Kadongo Kamu. He has his team playing well as ever, after a disappointing season last year for the club. They've scored 40+ goals on the season, giving them one of the second level's highest-level offenses. They have players like Kóri Vacík from the Equestrian States, and Kenyatta Mũraya anchoring the front. 40 goals is 40 goals, and it shows that Akampurira has great long-term potential as a manager.

The second, though a less well-known name since he was not big as a player, is Thembinkosi Siwani. Only 38 years old, he is at Garixas City. He leads the squad with the league's best defense. He gets his players to play compactly, and likes to sign big, technically sound defenders. A team just 2 points off the pace, with a manager likely to be hired onto a BSL side next season, they will be doing everything they can to not only dethrone Cerenus United, but win a playoff match and become the first Northern League side to ever qualify for international competition.

Southern League

Southern League                       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD    Pts 
 1 Pumbasa Bears                       22   18   1   3    38   14  +24    55
 2 Sororo City                         22   14   5   3    39   20  +19    47
 3 Boufaya Ravens                      22   12   3   7    34   24  +10    39
 4 Busemlu Park SC                     22   11   4   7    21   12   +9    37
 5 Hawabark Boulders                   22   11   3   8    34   31   +3    36
 6 Umbazi FA                           22    9   2  11    28   27   +1    29
 7 Dodoma City SC                      22    8   3  11    25   26   −1    27
 8 Mukegara Warriors                   22    7   5  10    25   29   −4    26
 9 Amaku City FC                       22    8   2  12    20   29   −9    26
10 Abomfa United                       22    6   3  13    17   31  −14    21
11 Kigagana Mountaineers               22    6   3  13    16   32  −16    21
12 Byakado City                        22    4   2  16    15   37  −22    14

This league is the most chock-full of surprises. The Hawabark Boulders, who are the defending champs and had a decent summer in the Serie B Champions Cup, are a stunning 19 points off the pace- essentially writing them off in terms of a title challenge. They are all the way back in 5th place in the league, and everyone is wondering what went wrong in Hawabark. Alaji Senghore has come under enormous pressure from some Boulders fans for this performance. Some fanbases are more impatient than others, but we expect Senghore, who had such high expectations after qualifying for the Serie B Champions Cup last season, to not finish out the season.

What's happening in this league? It's the least competitive in Banija! The Pumbasa Bears are a full 8 points in front of second place Sororo City, who are 8 points ahead of third place Boufaya Ravens. While the Ravens in third place may not surprise many- they are the only regional league side in the quarterfinals of the RBSA Cup, after all- the point gaps might. Sororo City's improvement is expected as well- the first year manager from Juvencus, Italo Cola, has done a wonderful job getting this team to perform.

And lastly, of course, is the Pumbasa Bears. Not a team many expected to win the league, it is quite possible that they win this thing running away. What happened to Pumbasa? Is there something in the water? They have really meshed under Edrissa Condeh, as they lead the entire regional league system in points at this point in time. They've only conceded 14 goals thus far all season- a stunning record, all things considering. Condeh's system is all coming well together, and we expect this team to be a serious contender for a spot in the Serie B Champions Cup.

Istria City FC advancing in AOCL group stages highlight Banijan clubs in international competition in season's opening half

Assefa Yitebarke celebrating a goal for Istria City FC against the Canterlot Royals

ISTRIA- During the course of the first half of the season, three Banijan clubs participated in international competition. We had Istria City FC, competing in the group stages of the Atlantian Oceania Champions League. We had Corizova United, competing in the group stages of the Serie B Champions Cup, and we had Herzegovina City FC, competing in the Cygnus Cup Winners Cup. As we did when reviewing Banijan teams international performances over the summer break, we will go for an in-depth review, team by team.

1. Istria City FC

Istria City FC, the defending BSL champions, participated in the Atlantian Oceania Champions League. The premier club competition for teams in Atlantian Oceania, you are only allowed to submit your champion- except for, of course, the titleholder. It makes for an entertaining competition. This year, there were 24 entries into the competition, so there was not any sort of a play-in games like there was last time the tournament was held. It was 24 teams in the group stages, and the top two teams in each group- plus the top four third place sides- would qualify for the Round of 16.

It was certainly going to be a tall order, playing these games during the week, for Istria City FC to qualify for the knockout stages. Of course, they were matched up against two teams from neighboring countries within the Glorious Southwest- Raynor City United of Valanora, and the Canterlot Royals of the Equestrian States. Cednia Beach of Vilitia was able to round out Group A in the regional competition. It was going to be a tough ask- three league champions, ranked higher than Istria City FC. Did they stand a chance?

Istria City FC was never going to beat Cednia Beach. Too strong, too talented, and that showed on the pitch, as the side simply outclassed the side from Istria. Istria City FC played both games close, but ultimately, they lost both matches against Cednia Beach 1-0. They did not have the offensive firepower or talent to get past the best team in the group. The next team, of course, was Raynor City. The Banijan side knew that they needed to steal a point in this matchup if they were going to do some damage within the AOCL.

Istria City FC did, in fact, steal a point from Raynor City. While they lost at Kabonero III Field, they were able to take a point away from home. A free kick by Girma Asmelash in the 88th minute stole a point away from home, when everyone expected Raynor City United to hold on for what woudl have been Istria City's fourth straight 1-0 loss of the group stages. This set them up in a decent position, if a tall task, against the Canterlot Royals- needing likely a pair of victories to get to the knockouts.

The first game took place in the Equestrian States. Finally, a 1-0 victory going the way of the Istria side, with a 1-0 victory for the visitors. In front of a hostile crowd, it was Assefa Yitebarke who woudl provide the spark with the go-ahead goal. It was Atsushi Ryu of Dunnes who broke down the visitors on the play, dribbling past three defenders before sliding the ball across the middle for an easy tap-in for the squad's striker, and the defense held for a 1-0 victory.

The return leg happened at Kabonero III Field, with the occasion on the horizon- in what would have been another first in a historic season already for Banijan clubs, the chance for the team to qualify for the AOCL knockout stages. It was Yitebarke who would open the scoring, from the spot in the 53rd minute. However, it was Lightning Streak of the Equestrian States who would bring the game level, and see both teams knocked out. It was a wonderful bicycle kick for the winged creature, and he nearly flew off in celebration at the miraclous goal. Istria City knew that they needed to score to get to the knockouts, and they had to push.

The team kept on pushing. Girma Asmelash leading the team forward, rallying the squad, as the sea of orange began to grow louder and louder. It was Assefa Yitebarke, once again, who would break the deadlock as he headed in the ball from 8 yards on a corner kick to give the team a 2-1 lead. They held on for the victory, and qualified for the knockout stages! They will be paired against Lonngeylin Coast of Vilitia. Istria City FC, even though they will host the second leg, will enter the matchup as massive underdogs.

It will be a tough tie, but Istria City FC must be confident. Yitebarke said that "while nobody expected us to even get here, here we are- the first BSL side to get to the knockouts of the AOCL. We can do damage in this competition, and I believe that we are capable of surprising a few people." Other players, including Girma Asmelash, echoed his confidence, while Istria manager Erechtheus Condos said that he loves the confidence oozing from his players, saying that it was integral to their ability to cause an upset.

We'll see what happens fairly soon!

2. Herzegovina City FC

Herzegovina City FC had advanced from the preliminary round of the Cygnus Cup Winners Cup, to the first round of the tournament- only to be drawn against the cup champion from the multiverse's #1 ranked association, Brookford Otters. Of course, the Brookford Otters are a mid to high table side in the Nepharim First Division, meaning they're in Nephara's second tier. It was always going to be difficult for the Banijans, and they hoped to get off to a good start in the first leg.

That, however, was not the case. They had Erika Arweiler man-marking the defending BSL MVP, Aaron Aiza, in a move that shut down the star, a tactic that other BSL sides may try out. The first leg was high scoring and dramatic, but the Brookford Otters were always in control- the Banijan side never led during the match. A chip and a header in the first half have the Otters leading 2-0 at the break, and Herzegovina City FC going into their dressing room, seemingly defeated.

They came back with a Madruga goal in the start of the second half, but Lazlo Kearney got carded in the box and yielded a penalty kick, which buried the tie. Three away goals for the Brookford Otters? That was too tall of a task for this side to come back from. While Madruga added a second in the game's dying moments, it was over at that point. A 10 man Brookford Otters held on for a 2-0 victory in Nephara to win 5-2 on aggregate, eliminating Herzegovina City FC from the Cygnus Cup Winners Cup.

3. Corizova United

The only Banijan side to qualify for the Serie B Champions Cup group stages was Corizova United, the Northwestern League champions. They were, of course, making their own victory- the first Banijan club to ever qualify for the group stages of a UICA competition, even if it was just the Serie B Champions Cup, possibly the least prestigious UICA competition.

That said, as many expected, the squad was simply overmatched. They finished dead last, only earning 3 points in 6 games. The main positive, was that they were able to keep everything close. A team that finished ahead of them in the standings had a -7 goal difference, compared to Corizova's at -3. They were right there the whole time- three draws, and three one goal losses.Not good enough to win these close games against more talented squads, but could enough to compete- and that's all that they can really ask for right now.

It was an elimination with grace. And that means, of course, the RBSA only has one team left in international competition. It is Istria City FC, the defending BSL champs- which makes sense, doesn't it? They will have a Round of 16 matchup coming up in the AOCL just around the corner, and they will be the standard bearer. All in all, an excellent step forward for Banijan clubs in interntional play. While not major players on the world stage- yet- people are starting to pay attention to Banijan club soccer, as we continue to try to make a name for ourselves on the world stage.

by **Banija** » Sun Apr 15, 2018 10:01 pm

The Banijan Soccer League - Season 6 Part III

We're finally starting to get some clarity! Here is the exclusive place for scores, and analysis, of Matchdays 17-24 as we get into the second half of league play.

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

Herzegovina City FC won their 8th game in a row, as they defeated Umbazi Metropolitan SC by a score of 2-0. Seeking to emulate the fast start that Busukuma AC had to the season during the middle of a season, Brian Emerson's side continued their run of dominance through league play, as goals from Guillermo Madruga and Ennis Leishmann on either side of halftime put the league leaders ahead by two, and that was the ballgame. This team has won eight in a row, and they are on fire. Trying to win their third league title in four years, Herzegovina City FC is a team that simply cannot be stopped in the league at this point. Aaron Aiza is playing dominantly, while Lucas Lucius Vit of Natanians & Nosts is fitting like a glove in this attack. They are scoring goals, and winning ballgames, and are making their mark atop the league table.

There were a couple of big matchups today as well at the top of the table. Istria City FC paid a visit to the Hoima Warriors, managed by Pons Blaise of Nuovo Juvencus. It was a shocker of a match- the defending champs won 3-0 away from home against the Hoima Warriors, whose struggles against Super 5 clubs this season are continuing, especially on their home field. They expect to be competing for UICA berths, but they are getting dominated in the midfield. Samba Ndaw and Flomo Osei simply are not getting the job done defending for the Warriors, while Idowu Kwandani, the longtime starting left back for the Kadongo Kamu is having a poor season as well. If Kwandani doesn't watch out, not only may a player like Abeselome taking his starting spot, his spot on the roster at all in World Cup Qualifiers may be threatened, with players like Daluxolo Matshikiza of Busukuma AC and Alifa Diawara of Herzegovina City FC stepping up and having fine seasons.

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

Herzegovina City FC won their 9th match in a row, matching the streak that Busukuma AC started at the beginning of the season. An interesting stat- each week so far in the BSL season, either Busukuma AC or Herzegovina City FC have won a game. Busukuma AC won 9 in a row to start the year, and then Herzegovina City FC won 9 in a row, with the first victory of the streak breaking the capitol club's winning streak. They had a 3-0 away victory over Mynda Electra, with goals scored by Guillermo Madruga, Lucas Lucius Vit, and Jackson Oglobelo. They are rolling on all cylinders right now, and will be atough team to catch. Their crosstown rivals, Herzegovina Phoenix, won by a score of 1-0, as a Gersem Markos penalty save in the 86th minute saved three points for the "other" Herzegovina City side.

There was a Super 5 matchup on display today, as Istria City FC hosted Jinja City FC. Both teams, of course, were a match away from qualifying for the group stages of the 67th Globe Cup, and this was their first matchup of the season. However, it was a tragedy for Jinja City FC, as for the second straight week, Istria City FC scored three goals against Super 5 opponents en route to a 3-1 home victory over Jinja City FC. Yitebarke had the brace, while Atsushi Ryu scored the team's third goal to break the backs of the visitors. The defending champs, of course, were intent on showing why they were the defending champs, and they did so emphatically. It was a big win for a team trying to work its way back into the UICA.

Lwanga Lions 0–1 Busembe Timberwolves
Herzegovina City FC 3–1 Aissa United FC
Isipongo Flash 0–1 Mynda Electra
Hoima Warriors 2–1 Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Jinja City FC 1–0 Busukuma Force
Rukunbi FC 2–0 Istria City FC
Bwubanza City SC 1–1 Herzegovina Phoenix
Dukuma SC 1–2 Lakiska SC
Bunyoro RSC 4–0 Askatasuna FC
Busukuma Athletic Club 2–1 Kitara AA

We are at the exact halfway point of the season! And boy, are we excited here today. While there were no Super 5 matchups today, there were two derbies! The City of Istria derby, with Rukunbi FC hosting Istria City FC, while the battle of the Busoga Islands played out, wtih Dukuma SC hosting Lakiska SC. First, we'll take a look at the City of Istria derby. Rukunbi FC stole the headlines today, with a huge 2-0 victory over their crosstown rivals at Eastern Stadium, a match that ended with a pitch invasion. Istria City FC have dominated the rivalry in the BSL days, and with their league title, Rukunbi FC almost seems like a forgotten footnote when talking about the sport in Banija's largest city. The atmosphere was wild, with flares going everywhere, the Istria City FC bus being hit with rocks before the game, and the Rukunbi ultras, probably the most terrifying in the BSL, chanting all sorts of deragotory chants.

The scenes around the game got out of hand, as the upset unfolded in real time. Amanuel Bsrat scored the opener in the 13th minute, which caused the crowd to go crazy. And then, in the final moments of the second half of stoppage time, captain Dembo Jawara sealed the deal with a header from the penalty spot on a corner kick. It was pandemonium. Rukunbi FC fans rushed the field. Istria City FC players and staff needed an armed escort off the field, as 30,000+ fans poured onto the field, celebrating the upset victory. Things were thrown- Nepharim defender Maximiliane Purcell of Istria City FC was hit in the eye with a bottle, though everyone said that he'll be OK. There were brawls in the stands, as Rukunbi FC fans couldn't bear to leave Istria City FC fans alone, and many Rukunbi FC players, including Amanuel Bsrat and Dembo Jawara, were carried off the field.

It was a stunning display, unlike those scene at BSL games usually, even though it was a rivalry game. Rukunbi FC was promised disciplinary action by the RBSA, and even though it was a shocking display, Rukunbi FC fan groups were defiant, saying that 'the joy from the victory in a rivalry game cannot be contained'. It cannot be a good look as the city prepares its bid to host the 9th NSCAA Final Four, with Liberty Stadium as the center piece of the bid. We imagine some sort of fines will be handed out by the league or the association to the team for failing to control fans, but what a big win it was for a team that usually gets dominated by its bigger rival on the coastline.

Busembe Timberwolves 1–2 Kitara AA
Busukuma Athletic Club 2–2 Askatasuna FC
Bunyoro RSC 1–0 Lakiska SC
Dukuma SC 0–8 Herzegovina Phoenix
Bwubanza City SC 0–0 Istria City FC
Rukunbi FC 3–1 Busukuma Force
Jinja City FC 1–2 Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Hoima Warriors 2–2 Mynda Electra
Isipongo Flash 1–0 Aissa United FC
Herzegovina City FC 5–0 Lwanga Lions

It was a day of shocking results and upsets, wasn't it? The official kickoff of the second half of the season offered no shortage of twists and turns, or surprises. To start- the Herzegovina Phoenix scored 8 goals in their victory over Dukuma SC- setting a BSL record for the highest margin of victory in a single game, ever. Led by a Chase Pershing first half hat trick, the rest of the team wanted to get in on the action in the second half. Lucia Silkemark, Vastyn Tredillick, Abram Senay, Kayin Meseret, and Israel Dejene all scored goals for the squad, in a season that promises to be the last for a number of players in a Phoenix uniform, as Mark Grayson understands that they need to get younger if they want to sustain success. But still- what an emphatic show of power in league play. Even though it was over Dukuma SC, historically one of the worst teams the BSL has to offer, it was still a major victory for the Phoenix, to help themselves in tiebreakers as they chase a coveted spot in the league's top four.

That was not the only game on tap, of course. Jinja City FC shockingly lost at home to Umbazi Metropolitan FC. Umbazi Metropolitan FC has had a really solid season, after getting international experience in the Vilitian Cove International. Demetro Laterza of Juvencus and Ervin Jon-Mikel of Abaja were Umbazi's two goalscorers, which was enough to give them a victory on the road against one of the top teams in the Banijan Soccer League. Both Busukuma AC and the Hoima Warriors had draws in games that they were expected to win. The Warriors, drawing 2-2 at home against Mynda Electra, and Busukuma AC, drawing 2-2 against Askatasuna FC. They were always going to be a pair of tough games, but the pair of home draws has to be disappointing for the Super 5 clubs. And then Istria City FC as well split the spoils, failing to score in a 0-0 draw away to Bwubanza City SC, who have struggled over the course of the season. It was a day where the rest of the league played catchup to the Super 5, and took some Ws.

Herzegovina City FC 1–0 Busembe Timberwolves
Lwanga Lions 2–3 Isipongo Flash
Aissa United FC 0–0 Hoima Warriors
Mynda Electra 1–3 Jinja City FC
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 1–1 Rukunbi FC
Busukuma Force 3–0 Bwubanza City SC
Istria City FC 1–1 Dukuma SC
Herzegovina Phoenix 0–1 Bunyoro RSC
Lakiska SC 0–4 Busukuma Athletic Club
Askatasuna FC 0–0 Kitara AA

Herzegovina City FC continued their record-breaking tear through the league, as they won their league-record 12th victory in a row, this time against the Busembe Timberwolves. This was a game where they came out flat, and looked flat for the entirety of the game. It took a Guillermo Madruga penalty to get the necessary three points, in a moment that the Timberwolves wish they could have back. 21 year old defender Filije Kolley raised his hands in the air when he went jumping for a header, and had to be called for a handball- a moment of madness in the intense moments of the end of a match. Kolley had a brilliant match throughout the game, staving off the Herzegovina City attack, but his error in the 81st minute was the match decider. A frustrating result after an encouraging performance for fans of the Busembe Timberwolves.

Elsewhere across the league, there were upsets galore among the other contenders for the league title. While Busukuma Athletic Club found its opening stretch form with a 4-0 win over Lakiska SC, it was the Phoenix who were upset at home, by Bunyoro RSC. Bruno Rodrigues was the difference, as Bunyoro RSC took all three points in Vdici. The Hoima Warriors, in a visit to last place Aissa United FC, could not break down the defenders there, as they drew 0-0 and dropped even more points against a team further down the table. It was an embarassing result, one that have had calls for the head of Pons Blaise reach an absolute fever pitch. The Warriors are still maintaining that they will stick behind their struggling manager, however, even though UICA qualification looks increasingly like a pipe dream for one of Banija's biggest clubs.

Busembe Timberwolves 0–3 Askatasuna FC
Kitara AA 2–1 Lakiska SC
Busukuma Athletic Club 0–1 Herzegovina Phoenix
Bunyoro RSC 0–0 Istria City FC
Dukuma SC 2–0 Busukuma Force
Bwubanza City SC 2–1 Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Rukunbi FC 0–2 Mynda Electra
Jinja City FC 4–1 Aissa United FC
Hoima Warriors 0–1 Lwanga Lions
Isipongo Flash 1–1 Herzegovina City FC

There is parity in the BSL! Herzegovina City FC, for the first time in 13 matches, failed to take maximum points, drawing 1-1 with the Isipongo Flash to end their winning streak at 12. Noah Lamont Hill, the Devontan striker, scored on a remarkable header to give the Isipongo Flash the lead in the 13th minute. While Madruga equalized in the 39th minute, the visitors pressured, and pressured, and pressured some more, but could not break down the Flash again. The fans applauded Herzegovina City FC at the end of the match, in recognition of their accomplishment of 12 victories in a row. This is a record that might stand for a very long time in the Banijan Soccer League.

It was also an interesting day elsewhere across the league. Jinja City FC was the only Super 5 team who won, winning the Battle for Hangaza's soul by a score of 4-1, with the help of a first half brace from Lin Moon. The last time these two teams played at this stadium, it consisted of Aissa United taking Jinja City's championship chances away from them. And, interestingly enough, Jinja City FC was the only Super 5 team to win their match this weekend. Busukuma AC fell to the Phoenix, by a score of 1-0 on their home field. The Hoima Warriors fell by the same score to the Lwanga Lions, with the game's lone goal being scored by Josef Lawerenz, the 18 year old prospect out of the Equestrian States. And, of course, Istria City FC drew once again, failing to score in a 0-0 draw with Bunyoro RSC.

This was the day that Rukunbi FC were punished for their fans mishaps a couple of weeks ago, in their derby victory over Istria City FC. They were forced to play in front of an empty stadium against Mynda Electra, and fell by a score of 2-0. IT was an interesting game to watch- no direct fines on the club, but no atmosphere, no concessions sold, no nothing. Not how the game should be played, eh? But the closed door game was probably a fair punishment, considering how Purcell walked out of that stadium.

Isipongo Flash 0–2 Busembe Timberwolves
Herzegovina City FC 2–2 Hoima Warriors
Lwanga Lions 1–2 Jinja City FC
Aissa United FC 0–1 Rukunbi FC
Mynda Electra 2–1 Bwubanza City SC
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 2–3 Dukuma SC
Busukuma Force 1–5 Bunyoro RSC
Istria City FC 1–1 Busukuma Athletic Club
Herzegovina Phoenix 6–3 Kitara AA
Lakiska SC 2–1 Askatasuna FC

You cannot complain when you are treated to two Super 5 matchups in the same weekend, am I right? You had Herzegovina City FC against the Hoima Warriors on Saturday afternoon, and you had Istria City FC against Busukuma AC on Sunday afternoon. You can't lose, right? Herzegovina City FC and the Hoima Warriors drew, 2-2, with the Warriors playing much better than they did during the 5-0 shellacking they suffered at the hands of the league leaders in the opening rounds of the RBSA Cup. It was a Julian Turner goal that opened the scoring, though a 44th minute equalizer from the head of Zinnah Atieno made the score 1-1 at the break. It was Guillermo Madruga who would make the score 2-1, but an 82nd minute equalizer from captain John Katumba allowed them to escape with at least one point. IT was a tough game, a tight game, a well-played game, and the point was deserved.

The other Super 5 matchup also had split spoils- Istria City FC drawing, at home, 1-1 with Busukuma AC. Interestingly enough, it was Istria City's fourth draw in a row in the league. Girma Asmelash for Istria City and Graven Braehead for Busukuma Athletic Club were the game's two goalscorers. It was a physical game- both teams competing for a top four spot, knowing that getting three points in this match would go a long way, down the line, towards possibly securing a UICA berth. However, neither team was able to fully take control, as it was an entertaining, free-flowing, and attacking game- but with both goalkeepers outstanding, neither side was able to take that final step that was required to come out of this match as a winner.

Busembe Timberwolves 0–0 Lakiska SC
Askatasuna FC 1–0 Herzegovina Phoenix
Kitara AA 2–2 Istria City FC
Busukuma Athletic Club 3–0 Busukuma Force
Bunyoro RSC 1–1 Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Dukuma SC 1–0 Mynda Electra
Bwubanza City SC 1–4 Aissa United FC
Rukunbi FC 1–2 Lwanga Lions
Jinja City FC 0–1 Herzegovina City FC
Hoima Warriors 1–4 Isipongo Flash

And that's it for Pons Blaise! The Hoima Warriors were absolutely walloped at home, losing by 4-1 to the Isipongo Flash. While the Warriors have struggled this season, a 4-1 loss at home to a team like the Isipongo Flash, a consistent lower half side, is absolutely unacceptable to the owners. And to do it in the night matchup, on national radio? It was over before. Pons Blaise was officially fired by the owners of the Hoima Warriors. IT is the culmination of not even being competitive in domestic competitions, and being an average, midtable side all the way in 9th place, especially with an emphatic home loss to a team like the Isipongo Flash. , marking the fourth firing they have made since Season 3. Gabriel Vincent at the end of Season 3, Orlando Juarez just 7 games into Season 4, Jan Cassallerus at the end of Season 5, and now Gabriel Vincent. This is tough for Hoima. They do not want to enter their third straight transfer window without a manger. However, can they find someone that will agree before the window, so that they can hit the ground running? Regardless, it is a decision that had to be made- Pons Blaise had bitten off more than he could chew. The fans had turned against him, the team had turned against him, and therefore he had to go.

While we can get into what the Hoima Warriors will do from here, there are a few other results that are worth mentioning. Busukuma AC won the much anticipated capitol city derby this year, by a score of 3-0. Istria City FC drew their fifth game in a row, causing worry among fans and supporters, as they blew a two goal lead in the final half hour against Kitara AA away from home. And, of course, in the Herzegovina City FC vs. Jinja City FC matchup, a huge matchup, Herzegovina City FC won, away from home, by a score of 1-0. Jackson Oglobelo scored in a free kick in the 62nd minute, as that was the difference for the league leaders. They find themselves with a widening gap on top of the table, 13 points ahead of second place Busukuma AC, thanks to their recent 12 game winning streak and, of course, the fact that they are still undefeated. The rock solid defense, only allowing 9 goals through 24 matches, is off the charts, with Boimah Ba anchoring the middle of the field to reduce pressure on the three men in the back.

BSL Standings after Matchday 24

Banijan Soccer League         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD    Pts 
 1 Herzegovina City FC         24   20   4   0    48    9  +39    64
 2 Busukuma Athletic Club      24   15   6   3    42   14  +28    51
 3 Herzegovina Phoenix         24   15   4   5    45   21  +24    49
 4 Jinja City FC               24   15   4   5    45   22  +23    49
 5 Istria City FC              24   13   7   4    43   20  +23    46
 6 Bunyoro RSC                 24   11   7   6    43   27  +16    40
 7 Umbazi Metropolitan SC      24   11   5   8    31   24   +7    38
 8 Busembe Timberwolves        24   10   6   8    23   20   +3    36
 9 Hoima Warriors              24   10   4  10    29   26   +3    34
10 Rukunbi FC                  24   10   2  12    28   30   −2    32
11 Mynda Electra               24    9   5  10    31   38   −7    32
12 Askatasuna FC               24    8   6  10    23   36  −13    30
13 Kitara AA                   24    8   5  11    26   34   −8    29
14 Isipongo Flash              24    6   7  11    26   32   −6    25
15 Dukuma SC                   24    7   3  14    20   41  −21    24
16 Lakiska SC                  24    5   7  12    17   33  −16    22
17 Bwubanza City SC            24    5   7  12    23   40  −17    22
18 Busukuma Force              24    5   4  15    21   45  −24    19
19 Lwanga Lions                24    4   5  15    21   45  −24    17
20 Aissa United FC             24    2   4  18    13   41  −28    10

Now, we will give the names of five players to watch through the end of the season- with World Cup Qualifying coming up, and what is sure to be a busy transfer window, players angle for spots on national teams, better club teams with the BSL, and to leave the BSL entirely.

1. Lin Moon

The Chromatik striker played for the Chromatika national team occasionally during World Cup 79 Qualification, though he ultimately did not make the final 23 for the World Cup Finals. The Jinja City FC striker won the golden boot last season, scoring 29 goals during league play. He is one of the league's top 3 strikers, along with Guillermo Madruga and Assefa Yitebarke, and he always plays like it. While his goalscoring has gone down, as the team added firepower with Deonte Bradley, meaning he is unlikely to win the golden boot again, he also has scored 10 goals throughout the season thus far- meaning he is on pace to score somewhere between 15 and 20 goals, though not be in serious contention for the golden boot. He has a lot to play for, playing in the Banijan Soccer League, and he will be doing whatever he can to be considered for a spot in the World Cup Finals with Chromatika, even if it is unlikely, as the top-10 team is almost assuredly going to qualify for the World Cup Finals.

What does Lin Moon have to do to break through to the national team? Well, it will be a tough climb for the striker, as they scored plenty of goals en route to their victory in the 55th AOCAF, a tournament where Banija somewhat shockingly reached the quarterfinals. He will have to show that he can do it on the club level, as well as the international level. The Banijan Soccer League is rapidly rising on international charts- however, it is still fairly new and only ranked 64th in the world, even if after last season the league rose 50 spots after a number of Banijan teams did some damage. Lin Moon may never get that chance, with younger strikers like Keira Andisori and Miranda Gail higher on the pecking order, but if he shows that he can contribute to the national team via his play for Jinja City FC, he will be given a chance to do so.

2. Sia Fall/Elias Abate

Sia Fall and Elias Abate, for those who followed the Banijan World Cup Qualification campaign for World Cup 79, were consistently competing for the left wing spot in Randolf Cherry's lineup, and continued their competition long after that. Elias Abate, injured for the Cup of Harmony, did not participate, and they competed again during the AOCAF. People thought that would be the same thing for this cycle- they would compete for playing time with each other, each pushing the other until Elias Abate likely retired at the end of the cycle, after the Cup of Harmony and after the AOCAF, and the spot would be Sia Fall's.

Those predicting that, however, did not foresee the rise of Gitonga Kahara.

Last season, Gitonga Kahara garnered headlines by winning the Golden Boot in the All-Hinodejin Youth League, playing for Project Olimpo, one of the world's most acclaimed youth academies. Helping lead Project Olimpo to a league title, he was much hyped by Banijan media and fans as the squad entered the Di Bradini Cup, which is the U21 World Cup. And he shined on the international stage, for the Vijana Kadongo Kamu. Arguably the player of the tournament for the nearly unstoppable Banijan offense at that tournament, he earned a spot playing for Polaris, in the Terranean League East.

And, he has starred there. He has gone from a radar of a future national team player, to his time being now. Still a teenager, he has taken his talents to Whitehaven, and has starred in UICA competitions so far, in Champions Cup qualification and in the group stages of the Globe Cup. And now, he looks not to only be assured of a roster spot, but to be assured the #11 jersey, across Banijan superstar Chibuzo Afolayan. That leaves Fall and Abate fighting to be his backup. Fall has the slight advantage, considering Abate was moved to a central midfield spot to make room for Lucas Lucias Vit, but Abate is a seasoned veteran, and is playing well, as evidenced by his side's title run. They will be fiercely competitive over the next 14 games or so, as a spot on this team is something both men covet.

3. Idowu Kwandani

Idowu Kwandani has been a surefire starter on the national team for many years. He has always been a rock in the back, next to George Wangolo, sorting it out on the left side. But, as much of the Hoima Warriors side is feeling, he has struggled this season. He is not getting up and down the pitch like he used to, which may be a product of his age. Regardless of whether he makes the squad or not, he is somebody that observers are going to watch.

Kwandani is reported to have said that he will 'refuse' a spot on the national tea if he will not start, so if he cannot make Randolf Cherry's starting XI, it will likely be the end of his own international career. There are a number of young Banijan left backs who will eagerly await the fall of his international career, but it is still the veteran's spot to lose at this point in time.

4. Noah Lamont Hill

The Devontan striker has settled in nicely at the Isipongo Flash, finally having a few flashes of brilliance for his new club. He is a backup for the United States of Devonta, a strong nation in the sport that is expected to seriously compete for a berth in the World Cup Finals. The man is in the Final 23 for the squad, but he is not in the starting XI- something that he would like to change. He used to play for Jinja City FC, who moved on from him in order to sign Deonte Bradley, the new strike partner for Lin Moon. Of course, Lamont Hill's sides both got 2nd place in the last two seasons, just so close to winning a league title, but not quite.

He won't win a league title at Isipongo Flash, but the tea will be much better for his own personal development. He will be the man at the Isipongo Flash, and with him meshing in the squad, we expect him to get more and more targets and have an extremely strong second half of the season. He certainly has the ability to make a difference, and he certainly will be able to make that sort of difference for the Flash. Will it be enough to get more playing time for Devonta, a nation that is also looking for their first ever World Cup appearance? We'll find out, soon enough, but here's what we do know- that trial starts here. If he's in form in the league, that gives him that much more of a chance for starring for Devonta.

5. Josef Lawerenz/Phineas Antwell/Xavier Melchoir

Now, of course, we mention this trio. Why? We have an extremely young trio that anchor the front line for the Lwanga Lions. Josef Lawerenz, of the Equestrian States, all of 18 years old, playing right wing for the Lions. We have Xavier Melchoir, the central attacking midfielder, of Taeshan, playing attacking midfielder. And, lastly, we have Phineas Antwell, of Cosumar, playing left wing. All three players are targets of Herzegovina Phoenix, an aging squad who are making an extremely strong push for their first ever UICA appearance, a squad who are known to have to make wholesale changes this offseason. And rumors abound, they are looking at home.

Mark Grayson looking for one of these three is not exaclty surprising. But our sources have it that he wants all three on his squad, maintaining veteran Brenician striker Chase Pershing to complete the attacking front, who will be 34 next season. These players all have tons of potential, and going to a team like the Herzegovina Phoenix can only help all of their chances in terms of moving up in their careers. Will he actually make that move? We'll see how good the combo plays. If they continue to mesh, they could make a shock move together, which would surely send vibrations about the ambitions of a club like the Phoenix for the long-term.

Quarterfinals of RBSA Cup played while Istria City FC bow out of the Atlantian Oceania Champions League

Miguel Freitas celebrates match winner against Herzegovina City FC in quarterfinals of the RBSA Cup

RBSA Cup Quarterfinals

Busembe Timberwolves 2–1 Askatasuna FC
Boufaya Ravens 0–1 Jinja City FC
Aissa United FC 3–0 Bunyoro RSC
Herzegovina City FC 0–1 Mynda Electra

AOCL Round of 16
Lonngeylin Coast 1-0 Istria City FC
Istria City FC 1-2 Lonngeylin Coast (Lonngeylin Coast advance 3-1 on aggregate)

An interesting set of circumstances for cup play, isn't it? It is the RBSA Cup Quarterfinals, while, of course, it is the Round of 16 of the Atlantian Oceania Champions League. There was a set of four entertaining matches in cup play, in a round that featured some upsets, some wonderful goals, great emotions, and, most importantly, produced four worthy semifinalists.

The first game had the Busembe Timberwolves host Askatasuna FC. Two midtable BSL sides, this was a match that was expected to be evenly matched, and the game did not disappoint. It was Asakatasuna FC who opened the scoring, with Abajan striker Alulawe Ju scoring the game's opening goal. He is playing with more confidence ever since being announced as Abaja's starting striker, a welcome development for a side who, we have discussed, have struggled for the past couple of seasons. But, however, it was going to be the night of the timberwolf. 36 year old captain Julio Leal equalized, while it was Kabir Jobateh who scored the match winner for the Timberwolves, who were the first team to punch their ticket to the RBSA Cup semifinals.

The second game had a rather unsurprising result- Jinja City FC defeating the Boufaya Ravens, 1-0. It was going to be a tough game- the Ravens stadium, not usually hosting opponents with the caliber of Jinja City FC, went absolutely ballistic. It was a loud, engaged crowd, though the talent gap between the BSL side and the second division side was evident. It was Lin Moon who was the difference, calmly converting from the penalty spot in the 37th minute. Aissa United FC, the last place team in the BSL, also continued their rather surprising cup run with a 3-0 victory over Bunyoro RSC. They have more victories in 3 RBSA Cup matches(3) than in 24 league games(2).

The most surprising result of the day, however, had to be Mynda Electra's upset of Herzegovina City FC. Herzegovina City FC, to this point, had not yet lost a game all season against Banijan opposition. They were looking to complete what had never been done before in the short history of the BSL- win the league/cup double. Since they are overwhelming favorites to win the league, however, that record will stand for at least one more year. Miguel Freitas scored the game's lone goal, as the league's second foreign-owned squad will be in the semifinals. Jinja City FC is the only Super 5 club in the semifinals, which will make for quite a fascinating finish to the tournament.

And, of course, Istria City FC capped off the year for Banijan clubs abroad, as they were eliminated over the course of two legs. Losing the first leg 1-0 away from home was always going to hurt, due to the lack of away goals. When Istria City FC conceded in the third minute, however, in the return leg, everyone knew that the tie was over. Yitebarke scored to bring them level in the leg and only one back in the tie, but everyone knew that they'd need two more at least, an unlikely proposition. In fact, the final goal of the tie was an own goal by Ephrem Selassiee, the young right back.

That marks the end of international play this season for Banijan clubs, and what a remarkable run it was. The run saw the RBSA move 50 places up the standings, moving from 114th to 64th in the coefficient rankings. While still far from where they want to be, they are no longer a lower level league- they are a mid level league, which should help them attract more talent towards the league this upcoming transfer window.

Also, if fans have noticed, the Kabaka's Cup, also known as the Banijan Supercup, has not yet been played. That is because the Stadium of the Restoration was not available to the Final of the Baptism of Fire, and rather than delay the start of the season, they decided they would rather play the Final on time. But, with both Istria City and Herzegovina City FC eliminated from the RBSA Cup, the RBSA has announced that both teams will play for the Kabaka's Cup at the Stadium of the Restoration, with a timeline coinciding with the RBSA Cup Semifinals. The fixture promises to be an entertaining matchup for all involved, especially if you remember their last meeting at the stadium.

by **Banija** » Mon Apr 16, 2018 5:27 pm

The Banijan Soccer League - Season 6 Part IV

We're getting towards the end of the season! Well into the second half, after these 8 matches, there are only 6 to play! Can we predict who will go to the UICA, and who will go home?

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

An interesting slate of games. Istria City FC, who at this point could be called Draw City FC, drew 1-1 with Askatasuna FC to achieve their sixth draw in a row in the league. They've left plenty of points on the table over the last six weeks, not looking the same since the pitch invasion at Eastern Stadium. They've struggled to finish off games, that, last season, en route to the league title, they always found a way to win. They are a good team, a quality team, as is shown by their spot in the league standings. However, if Istria City FC cannot figure out a way to turn these draws into wins, they risk losing their spot in the UICA altogether.

There were other important results across the league today. The Phoenix won their matchup, 2-0 over Lakiska SC. Herzegovina City FC won 3-0 at home over Rukunbi FC, continuing to cruise towards their third league title in the last four seasons, increasing the gap between them and the rest of the competition at the top of the table. Jinja City FC fared well, winning 2-1 away from home. Lin Moon assisted twice, and hit the post twice- including hitting the crossbar on a penalty kick. Deonte Bradley and Sia Fall were the goalscorers for Jinja City FC.

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

A Super 5 matchup as the nightcap! And Jinja City v. Hoima did not disappoint for Banijan viewers. In what was the highest rated game of the year on television and on radio, the entertaining Super 5 matchup ended in a 3-2 victory for Jinja City FC. It was a back and forth thriller. Deonte Bradley scored the opener in the 32nd, but in the 52nd, Julian Turner equalized. John Katumba scored the go-ahead goal for the Warriors in the 57th minute, to give the visitors a 2-1 lead. Jinja City FC, however, were not dead yet.

Jinja City FC scored a fantastic goal, courtesy of a surprise source- from the head of Clarice Easter, of Chromatika. That was the 72nd minute, and in the 2-2 game, the match was intense. Interim manager Carlton Hamilton trying to get the W in his first Super 5 matchup, as he auditions not necessarily for this job, but for others around the league. Both teams were up and down the pitch, but it was Lin Moon who would be the difference. He was fouled in the box, in the 86th minute, by Idowu Kwandani, who was lucky to only see yellow. Lin Moon took the penalty, and even though he missed last week, he was true from the spot as Jinja City FC won the game by a score of 3-2.

Even though this was the match of the week, it was not the only game of the week. Istria City FC finally broke out of their slump of six straight draws, getting a 2-0 win away from home against Lakiska SC. The game was slow and stale, and it looked like the defending champs would draw again. However,late goals from Girma Asmelash in the 83rd, and Atsushi Ryu in the 89th, ensured that Istria City FC would finally take maximum points from a game, winning in the league for the first time since Matchday 18, ending a 7 game run where they didn't take maximum points. After the match, manager Erechtheus Condos told reporters that the whole team felt 'relieved' that the streak was over.

Jinja City FC 2–0 Busembe Timberwolves
Hoima Warriors 4–0 Rukunbi FC
Isipongo Flash 2–1 Bwubanza City SC
Herzegovina City FC 2–0 Dukuma SC
Lwanga Lions 5–1 Bunyoro RSC
Aissa United FC 0–2 Busukuma Athletic Club
Mynda Electra 1–0 Kitara AA
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 1–0 Askatasuna FC
Busukuma Force 1–0 Lakiska SC
Istria City FC 0–2 Herzegovina Phoenix

A huge game happened between Mark Grayson's Herzegovina Phoenix, and Istria City FC. Istria City FC, who just won for the first time in almost 8 weeks, could not hold off the Phoenix, and they fell by a score of 2-0. A result that might play a huge role in the race where the Herzegovina Phoenix and Istria City FC will be competing for a limited number of, let's face it, Globe Cup spots. The Phoenix achieved a huge victory, with Chase Pershing scoring in the 3rd minute, and again in the 42nd minute, to see off Istria City. The Phoenix are here, and are competing, and are sending a message- will they really be the team that will break the stranglehold of Istria City, Busukuma AC, Herzegovina City, and Jinja City FC on the top 4? Will they be the first non Super 5 club to represent Banija in the UICA? Mark Grayson is certainly getting them prepared to do so.

Around the league, the Lwanga Lions had a fun day, running rampant over Bunyoro RSC. It was 5-1, with Antwell getting a hat trick, and Melchoir and Lawerenz both scoring once. It was the young trio's most complete performance up front- they are playing well, they have good ball movement between them. There were Phoenix scouts at the game as well, wearing their trademark purple- though the Phoenix did not comment on that. In short, the Lwanga Lions did extremely well, and that is good for the future- if, of course, they can figure out how to hold onto their talent.

Busembe Timberwolves 1–2 Istria City FC
Herzegovina Phoenix 0–0 Busukuma Force
Lakiska SC 0–1 Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Askatasuna FC 2–2 Mynda Electra
Kitara AA 0–2 Aissa United FC
Busukuma Athletic Club 0–1 Lwanga Lions
Bunyoro RSC 1–2 Herzegovina City FC
Dukuma SC 6–1 Isipongo Flash
Bwubanza City SC 0–1 Hoima Warriors
Rukunbi FC 1–0 Jinja City FC

Eastern Stadium is turning into a house of horrors for the Super 5! They beat yet another Super 5 club at Eastern Stadium, by a score of 1-0, and the celebrations were wild- though, of course, fans did not storm the field. The intensity was toned down slightly from the Istria City FC matchup, as this game was not a rivalry game- though Jinja City FC is simply always better than Rukunbi FC. The "other" Istria side scored on a free kick, with 36 year old winger Amir Bezuayehu curling it in from 22 yards. The defense was strong, it withstood and held against the Jinja City push, and, ultimately, it was game, set, and match. Rukunbi FC had slayed another giant at their stadium, and will now surely get a reputation for being giant slayers at Eastern Stadium.

There was another big upset today as well. The Lwanga Lions won their third game in a row, winning away to Busukuma AC, by a score of 1-0. A team where all the focus is almost squarely on the three youngest players, they held their composure, and Xavier Melchoir assisted former Busukuma AC player Gizaw Mignote on the match winner. Mignote ended up stealing the headlines in this upset, however, with his celebration. He lifted up his shirt, which said that "Lwanga > Busukuma", a clear shot at the capitol club. We don't imagine he'll be treated well here again, but with rumors abounding that he will retire at season's end, it's not like he cares what they think, anyways.

Herzegovina City FC and Istria City FC both took care of business away from home, with 2-1 victories, while the Hoima Warriors won a gritty matchup, 1-0, away from home with Bwubanza City SC. Big wins for those three clubs, even with the shock losses for the other pair of Super 5 clubs this weekend.

Rukunbi FC 0–2 Busembe Timberwolves
Jinja City FC 3–0 Bwubanza City SC
Hoima Warriors 2–0 Dukuma SC
Isipongo Flash 1–0 Bunyoro RSC
Herzegovina City FC 2–2 Busukuma Athletic Club
Lwanga Lions 2–5 Kitara AA
Aissa United FC 1–0 Askatasuna FC
Mynda Electra 7–1 Lakiska SC
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 0–0 Herzegovina Phoenix
Busukuma Force 1–0 Istria City FC

There was a massive tie, with Herzegovina City FC and Busukuma AC meeting up on Saturday afternoon. However, the two teams were level, and could not be separated, as they tied 2-2. The league leaders and the capitol club battled throughout the day, with Graven Braehead and Alanso Tamba giving the capitol club a 2-0 lead at halftime, seriously threatening Herzegovina City FC for their first loss of the season. However, Herzegovina City FC was able to storm back in the second half, with a 63rd minute strike by Jackson Oglobelo and a 76th minute strike from Aaron Aiza, to keep the undefeated league season intact. What a season the league leaders are having, even if all the success is concentrated only in one competition for Brian Emerson's side.

Brian Emerson has made a strategic choice- lay it all on the line in the league, win the league, do so at a record-setting pace, and gain serious popularity wtih fans. While fans were not happy with their appearance in continental competition, he understands something. The BSL, ranked only 64th, is not a strong enough league to fire a coach off of their international results. It is all about domestic results, until they get high enough to have some real expectations in the UICA, until teams actual qualify for the group stage of the Globe Cup or the Champions Cup. They haven't lost yet, and the Cosumarite manager is as popular as ever, their first round elimination from the Globe Cup qualifiers all but forgotten.

Busembe Timberwolves 1–1 Busukuma Force
Istria City FC 2–1 Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Herzegovina Phoenix 1–1 Mynda Electra
Lakiska SC 1–4 Aissa United FC
Askatasuna FC 0–0 Lwanga Lions
Kitara AA 0–1 Herzegovina City FC
Busukuma Athletic Club 1–0 Isipongo Flash
Bunyoro RSC 3–0 Hoima Warriors
Dukuma SC 1–7 Jinja City FC
Bwubanza City SC 1–1 Rukunbi FC

Jinja City FC, again, is stepping up to bat at the plate. They scored a shocking 7 goals, in their route in Dukuma SC. Lin Moon had a hat trick, as the team simply poured it onto Dukuma. Deonte Bradley, Sia Fall, Daniel Asres, and Nikolay Menshikov all scored once in Jinja City's route. Elsewhere, the Phoenix drew, 1-1, with Mynda Electra at home, a disappointing result for a team that is chasing one of Banija's three Globe Cup spots. Aissa United, a team that has been in last place, surprisingly, all season, went up 4-0 away from home against Lakiska SC, though a late free kick was converted by the hosts. It was a shocker of a match- Aissa actually looked competent for once. Everything was clicking, and it looked like nothing their fans had seen all season long.

It should be mentioned, that Herzegovina City FC won again, extending their unbeaten run to 30 games. With only 8 games left, it is truly conceivable that this team could be the first in Banijan history to go undefeated in the league. It was Aaron Aiza who was the game's goalscorer today, who is trying to do what he can to make the national team. While there is no shortage of competition on the outside for the Equestrian States, World Cup 80 is being played on home soil. That gives him, along with other Equestrians, that much extra motivation for a strong finish to the season, as his sample size will be undoubtedly smaller since his nation, as host, will not be participating in World Cup Qualification.

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

A Super 5 matchup for interim manager Carlton Hamilton! A man who is a caretaker manager to finish out the last 13 games of the season, he won a Super 5 matchup, defeating the capitol club, by a score of 1-0. It was a Julian Turner cross to striker Derick Mason that was the difference in the game. The 32 year old Schottian was not going to be denied, and neither were the Warriors on this not. Hoima, a team that is notoriously known for slow starts to the season, as they have suffered in each of the last three seasons, are finally starting to put together a respectable campaign of their caliber, but it is too little, far too late.

There weren't any major upsets elsewhere in the table. Istria City FC won a surprisingly close game against Mynda Electra, doing what they needed to do to score three goals in the first half, and then withstand the second half onslaught, where Mynda Electra scored twice and a diving fingertip save on a free kick by Gabriel Negus saved the ball game for the defending champs. The Phoenix needed a goal in the 6th minute of stoppage time to defeat last place Aissa United, by a score of 2-1. HZCFC and Jinja City both took care of business at home as well, racking up three points.

Busembe Timberwolves 1–0 Umbazi Metropolitan SC
Busukuma Force 1–1 Mynda Electra
Istria City FC 1–0 Aissa United FC
Herzegovina Phoenix 0–1 Lwanga Lions
Lakiska SC 0–0 Herzegovina City FC
Askatasuna FC 1–4 Isipongo Flash
Kitara AA 0–2 Hoima Warriors
Busukuma Athletic Club 5–0 Jinja City FC
Bunyoro RSC 3–0 Rukunbi FC
Dukuma SC 1–3 Bwubanza City SC

There was a rather surprising Super 5 matchup in the nation's capitol. Busukuma AC hosted Jinja City FC. The game can be random, of course, but who saw this coming? The capitol club won by a score of 5-0 over the visitors. First half goals by Ansu Cisse and Graven Braehead were helped by second half goals from Alanso Tamba, Oren Ya'akovi, and Toyuwa Sall. We aren't sure if anybody saw that coming, as Jinja City FC never gets handled by anybody in the Banijan Soccer League, not getting dominated in that manager. The team was sloppy and slow, and Alexander Bumba, the manager, needs to get something fixed in his team so this is a shocking one-off, rather than a turning point.

Herzegovina City FC missed their first chance to clinch the league title, as they drew, 0-0. Considering the result in the Busukuma AC v. Jinja City FC game, a victory for HZCFC would have won them the league with all this time remaining. However, Lakiska SC were determined to not see them lift the trophy in Busoga, and HZCFC will have to wait at least one more week to make official what everyone has known would happen for months now- Herzegovina City FC to be crowned league champions. They only need two more points, irrespective of other results, to win the league.

What Herzegovina City FC did do, however, was keep their miraclous streak alive. They have gone 32 straight games without losing once. You don't want to jinx them, of course, but the question must be asked- can this be the greatest BSL season ever by a Banijan team? They have 26 wins, 6 draws, and 0 losses. It is entirely possible- and conceivable- that this team can be the first Banijan team ever to go through an entire season undefeated. Who are their remaining games, standing between Herzegovina City FC and history?

Well, of course, next week is the Herzegovina derby. HZCFC would love to win the league title against their crosstown rivals, while the Phoenix would like to do anything to spoil the party, to delay the inevitable. Then, it is a train ride south into Istria, to visit Istria City FC. That will be a tough game, against the defending champions. But if they can get through those two games without a loss, the path clears up. Their last four games are home to the Busukuma Force, away to Umbazi, home to Mynda Electra, and away to Aissa United, who are in last place, but who are well-known for crushing dreams of Super 5 clubs at the end of a season. This next two games will be crucial- then, from there, it will be about keeping your head, and not feeling the pressure or weight of expectation as what is, at least currently, surely the greatest BSL season ever played by a single team.

BSL Standings after Matchday 32

Banijan Soccer League         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD    Pts 
 1 Herzegovina City FC         32   26   6   0    63   13  +50    84 - HAS QUALIFIED FOR UICA COMPETITION
 2 Busukuma Athletic Club      32   20   7   5    57   19  +38    67
 3 Jinja City FC               32   21   4   7    63   32  +31    67
 4 Herzegovina Phoenix         32   19   7   6    54   25  +29    64
 5 Istria City FC              32   18   8   6    54   28  +26    62
 6 Hoima Warriors              32   16   4  12    42   32  +10    52
 7 Bunyoro RSC                 32   14   7  11    54   38  +16    49
 8 Umbazi Metropolitan SC      32   13   6  13    34   35   −1    45
 9 Busembe Timberwolves        32   12   8  12    30   29   +1    44
10 Mynda Electra               32   12   8  12    47   48   −1    44
11 Isipongo Flash              32   10   8  14    38   45   −7    38
12 Kitara AA                   32   10   7  15    38   46   −8    37
13 Rukunbi FC                  32   11   3  18    30   45  −15    36
14 Busukuma Force              32    9   8  15    31   50  −19    35
15 Lwanga Lions                32    9   7  16    32   51  −19    34
16 Askatasuna FC               32    8   9  15    29   50  −21    33
17 Dukuma SC                   32    9   5  18    30   57  −27    32
18 Bwubanza City SC            32    6   9  17    29   52  −23    27
19 Lakiska SC                  32    5   8  19    19   51  −32    23
20 Aissa United FC             32    5   5  22    23   51  −28    20

Now, we will go over the predictions that we gave earlier in the season, after Matchday 16. What was right? What was wrong? What is still far too early to tell? We'll figure that all out, and more!

1. Herzegovina Phoenix will not finish in the Top 4
Verdict: Unknown

There are 6 games left to be played, and the Herzegovina Phoenix are currently in the top 4. While Herzegovina City FC has all but won the league already, there is a fierce competition between four teams for Banija's three Globe Cup spots- Busukuma AC, Istria City AC, Herzegovina Phoenix, and Jinja City FC. Busukuma AC is in second with 67 point, and Istria City FC is right behind them on goal difference, but level on points. The Phoenix are in fourth, the last Globe Cup spot, with 64 points, while Istria City FC sit just two points outside the top 4, with 62 points and in fifth place.

With the race for the Globe Cup spots this tight, one team will be left disappointed, and it's way too early to tell who will get those spots. You'd expect Jinja City FC to pull away for one spot, simply because it's Jinja City, and that's what they do. Busukuma AC, although the only Super 5 club to have nothing in the trophy cabinet, have consistently qualified for the UICA, though after their blazing hot start to the season, has slowed down. It is quite possible that Ferran Rey's side don't have it in them.

It is likely, then to come down to the Phoenix and Istria City FC. This is a victory for the Phoenix that they are in this position- they weren't supposed to be this good until next season, after Mark Grayson had a full transfer window to bring some youth to his squad. This team of veterans is trying to leave a legacy at this club, and they will do so if they can send the Phoenix to the UICA for the first time. This would be quite a building block for Grayson to work with- to go on, to build this club into a true powerhouse that can compete with the Super 5 clubs, on a consistent basis, over the course of an entire season. We'll see what happens over the last six games.

2. Herzegovina City FC will win their 3rd league title in four seasons
Verdict: True

Well, while this is true, we didn't expect the season to go like this. We would have been insane to say that Herzegovina City FC would go undefeated- and yet, they are 6 games away from becoming the first Banijan team ever to make it through an entire 38 game campaign without a single loss. Heck, Lucas Lucius Vit hit the crossbar in their 0-0 draw this past weekend- if that ball is just inches lower, we are talking about how Herzegovina City FC has already won the league! But they've had an incredible run so far, and they will be absolutely deserving of the title whenever they win it.

They've proven us right, this time round. What a season these guys have had. After all of the success under Kolt Freegan, Brian Emerson has come and taken them to new heights in the league! Now, of course, he is going to have his own full transfer window- a time to shape and improve his team, before he enters the Champions Cup. That will be the next task for the Cosumarite manager- bringing Herzegovina City FC, the standard bearer in the next season of the UICA for Banija, to new heights in international club competition, and bring respect to both the name of the team and of the league.

3. For the fourth season in a row, the teams making up the top 4 will remain unchanged
Verdict: Unknown

Who really knows what will happen? We will be correct if the Phoenix cannot finish out the season strong- this prediction corresponding with prediction #1. While we can look at the analysis from above, that largely focuses on the Phoenix. Let's take this at a different angle- the games that everyone has left to play against each other, who will join Herzegovina City FC in the top 4 at season's end.

First of all, both the Phoenix and Istria City FC have games remaining against the undefeated league leaders. The Phoenix will pay a visit to Star Field next week, while the week after, Istria City FC will be playing host to the league leaders. Points in that game will be huge for both sides, as that would amount to points stolen on the race towards the finish line. But what other games are left between the contenders for the top 4? The Phoenix have a brutal schedule remaining- @ HZCFC, vs. Isipongo Flash, @ Hoima, vs. Jinja City FC, @ Rukunbi, vs. Bwubanza City. Three Super 5 teams, and potentially the toughest place to play in the whole league, in Eastern Stadium.

It will be the true test of this team- can they get through that schedule and remain in the top 4? It will be tough, but it will be the true test for this team. If you want to be the best, you have to beat the best, and that opportunity is in front of you. The league leaders, who are your crosstown rivals, two more Super 5 clubs, and paying a visit to the most hostile environment in Banija, named Rukunbi FC. If they can get through that, and still be in the top 4, then you will know that this team has truly arrived, and they are truly ready to take their place on the world stage.

4. Pons Blaise will not be the first manager fired this season- but he will lose his job before the season ends
Verdict: Wrong

We did not imagine things could get this bad. In fact, he was fired right before the release of the next issue of this magazine! Made us look like fools, but more importantly, it continues four years of disappointment and anger in Hoima, where they cannot seem to get the right answer. Managers hired, managers fired, but they can't find their way into the top 4, no matter what they do- and for the third straight transfer window, they will enter it needing a manager, and that will set them behind in the window, once again. But a 4-1 loss to the Flash, to put you into 9th place 24 games into the season, at this job? The hand of ownership was forced.

Who knows how they can fix this mess? THere are a couple of managers out there- maybe Jehan Blair, of Cosumar? The former Amazonestan national team manager knows a thing or two, though the last Amazonestan national team manager didn't last very long. There are sure to be quite a few managers on the market, but they need to find the right one, and quickly- they do not want a fifth season of being surpassed by the rest of the Super 5, and a fifth straight season of missing out on international club competition, again, They want to be at the forefront of the BSL's rise, not simply a footnote that people care about at home, but who are simply forgotten abroad.

Timberwolves and Mynda Electra advance to RBSA Cup Final while Istria City FC wins the Kabaka's Cup

Brendan Ediomgi celebrates opening goal against Jinja City FC in the RBSA Cup Semifinals

RBSA Cup Semifinals
Busembe Timberwolves 2–0 Jinja City FC
Mynda Electra 3–0 Aissa United FC

Kabaka's Cup
Herzegovina City FC 1–1 Istria City (1–2 AET)

BUSUKUMA- There were three big games this weekend. The Kabaka's Cup, which is the Banijan Supercup, was finally played this weekend. It could not kick off the season, because of a scheduling conflict with the Baptism of Fire. It was postponed, and finally scheduled to take place the day of the RBSA Cup semifinals, when it was clear that neither Istria City nor Herzegovina City FC would be participating. When the RBSA was asked what would've happened if one of the teams had made it this far, they declined to comment. A severe lack of planning from an organization that did well to put on the 67th Baptism of Fire.

Let's start with the first semifinal. This game saw a massive upset, with the Busembe Timberwolves, defeating Jinja City FC, by a score of 2-0. This game was a tight one at the Wolf's Den, as Busembe caught Jinja City off guard, by throwing waves of players forward. They were here not for the experience of being in the semifinals- but they were here to win the competition entirely. The Timberwolves battled, and Jinja City FC was caught on their back foot. While they went into the break scoreless, it was clear that an upset was on the horizon, as the Timberwolves had outplayed Jinja City FC in the first half.

In the second half, it was clear that the Timberwolves were going to keep taking it to Jinja City. Alexander Bumba had his team in counter-attack mode, as the crowd of 43,000 was as loud as you could ever imagine. They tried to pack it in, and it cost them. Brendan Ediomgi struck a rocket from 22 yards, and it was a beautiful goal that went into the upper corner and gave the Timberwolves a 1-0 lead in the 62nd minute. The crowd was going wild, as the 34 year old striker ran around in celebration. It was a beautiful moment, but there was plenty of time left for the better team, on paper anyways, to assert itself.

And they tried to do that. Even against the roars of the 43,000 in the stadium, the sea of white as the fans had a whiteout, Jinja City FC tried to come back. The atmosphere, however, was something truly special. 38 year old goalkeeper Neway Kidane made a massive save in the 76th minute, denying Deonte Bradley, who had a one on one opportunity. Julio Leal himself had a goal line clearance, when Kidane was beaten by a chip from Lin Moon, but Julio Leal raced back in time to kick the ball sky high and out of play. When Kabir Jobateh scored on a counter-attack in the 92nd minute, the place went nuts. The players ran into the stands, there was tears, as this was one of the biggest wins in the history of the club, to clinch a spot in the RBSA Cup Final.

Mynda Electra, while not as big of a game because they were not playing one of Banija's bigger clubs, had an excellent game. It might turn out to be an excellent investment for Electra, the company that bought this team. Mynda Electra won handily, by a score of 3-0, to put last place Aissa United FC to bed. Aissa United, who has seriously struggled in the league campaign, had a terrific won to the semifinals of the RBSA Cup. But the magic was over in this tournament, as Mynda Electra emerged victorious.

What a final it will be this season, am I right? Mynda Electra against the Busembe Timberwolves. Who would have ever thought? That is the magic of a straight knockout competition, right there. It will be the first time that a team outside of the Super 5 has won a trophy in Banijan since Season 3, when the Phoenix knocked off the Hoima Warriors for the Cygnus Cup Winners Cup. It will be a team with no UICA experience going to the Cup Winners Cup, looking to wreak havoc by causing upsets at the tournament.

And now, of course, we cover the Kabaka's Cup. The first match of any kind played at the Stadium of the Restoration in six months, the game between these two rivals was filled to capacity. The Super Cup, played between the Season 5 BSL champions and the Season 5 RBSA Cup champions. It was a fierce match, a tight match. Aaron Aiza opened the scoring, converting from the penalty spot in the 33rd minute, but it was Assefa Yitebarke who tied the game, on a header in the 67th minute. The game was level after 90 minutes, and went to extra time. HZCFC, trying to earn a second trophy in one season, something Banijan teams don't traditionally do, threw everyone forward, but they were burnt on the counter-attack. That made Atsushi Ryu the hero, as he scored in the 108th minute as the defending league champions held on.

This win, of course, means that Istria City FC have gotten revenge for last season's loss in the RBSA Cup Final, in the most dramatic of fashion. And, of course, show that Herzegovina City FC's invincibility is only in the league.

How is one not entertained?

by **Banija** » Wed Apr 18, 2018 9:10 pm

Regional Leagues finish their season as four league champions are crowned

Igulu City FC striker Gĩtukũ Kinũthia celebrates his goal on the last day of the season

The regular season is over! Banija's four regional leagues have now played 44 games, and for the second season in a row, we have our four regional league champions preparing for a playoff to enter the Serie B Champions Cup. In the background, of course, are rumors of discussions that the Royal Banijan Soccer Association is 'seriously considering' implementing pro/rel, obviously not for this season, but at the end of next season. The regional league sides will be watching closely.

Northwestern League

Northwestern League                   Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Corizova United                     44   25  13   6    80   30  +50    88 - LEAGUE CHAMPION; QUALIFIES FOR SBCC QUALIFICATION PLAYOFF
 2 Barmos United                       44   25   8  11    81   49  +32    83
 3 AFC Kosactus                        44   22  12  10    67   44  +23    78
 4 Suwawa FC                           44   21  11  12    72   47  +25    74
 5 Tezirbu Foxes                       44   18  15  11    50   44   +6    69
 6 Eastern Moravica Football Club      44   18  14  12    47   42   +5    68
 7 Jaribga Soccer Club                 44   14  15  15    50   54   −4    57
 8 Koszagard City                      44   14  14  16    53   56   −3    56
 9 Nezrouch Rovers                     44   12   9  23    49   58   −9    45
10 Slobochia Bears                     44   10  14  20    30   47  −17    44
11 Tripoli Foresters                   44    7  10  27    36   79  −43    31
12 Taramazna United                    44    5  11  28    32   97  −65    26

The Northwestern League ended with an unsurprising champion- Corizova United. Assuming, of course, for the second season in a row that they make it out of the SBCC qualification playoffs, Corizova United will be able to stake a claim as Banija's best regional league side. They are, out of the four leagues, the only repeat champion- even though, at the halfway point of the season, we assumed that there could be up to three repeat champions from the previous season. Corizova United, however, was the only one able to maintain form over the course of the slog of a 44 game, quadruple round robin season.

They did this, of course, while playing in the group stages of the Serie B Champions Cup in the first half of the season, picking up those extra games and thousands of extra air miles, flying from country to country, making this feat more impressive. Al Iska, the 50 year old manager, is definitely being talked about across the Banijan Soccer League- as they understand the impressiveness of this accomplishment. Corizova proved their mettle by simply outlasting Barmos United, who made a strong, concerted push at the title- but this veteran team was not going to miss the chance to go back to back. They will be favorites to progress early in the playoffs, due to their experience, but we'll see what happens when those come around.

Lower Coastal League

Lower Coastal League                  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Kabakono City                       44   33   5   6    81   21  +60   104 - LEAGUE CHAMPION; QUALIFIES FOR SBCC QUALIFICATION PLAYOFF
 2 Capitol City Football Club          44   28   7   9    74   34  +40    91
 3 Zakuta City                         44   27   8   9    66   31  +35    89
 4 Ogbordu Diamond Football Club       44   23   6  15    61   52   +9    75
 5 Baleweye Football Club              44   21  11  12    62   43  +19    74
 6 Djoro Athletic                      44   22   8  14    56   37  +19    74
 7 Nsade United                        44   16   9  19    48   51   −3    57
 8 Kitara Athletic Society             44   13  10  21    59   61   −2    49
 9 AFC Akwadua                         44   11  12  21    46   61  −15    45
10 Kwadama Dojo                        44    9   8  27    32   74  −42    35
11 Dimbogourou Sporting Club           44    7   6  31    27   95  −68    27
12 Mamari City                         44    5   8  31    34   86  −52    23

We have a new champion! At midseason, it looked like Capitiol City FC, Zakuta City, and Kabakono City would be in a tight, three way race to see who would win the league. But it was Kabakono City who pulled ahead, never once relinquishing the lead in the second half of the season on their way to strolling to the title, finishing with 104 points in the Lower Coastal League. There is a good amount of youth on their team, but they played like season vets. A 19 year old starting as their outside midfielder, and they put a 20 year old in net- certainly not an easy decision, but a decision that paid off.

Capitol City Football Club are consistently talked about as the cream of the crop in this league, and they will be disappointed that they finished 13 points off the pace. So while the fact that they finished with 91 points is nice- three more than the Northwestern League champion, Corizova United, they simply could not keep up with Kabakono City. Their star player is Al Qurijan international Bahij Wafi Saab, a starting midfielder for a team that had a very solid BoF 66 run. His big game experience on the international level, of course, will be key as the team makes their first ever entry into the SBCC Qualification Playoffs.

Southern League

Southern League                       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Sororo City                         44   29  10   5    75   35  +40    97 - LEAGUE CHAMPION; QUALIFIES FOR SBCC QUALIFICATION PLAYOFF
 2 Pumbasa Bears                       44   29   3  12    62   32  +30    90
 3 Hawabark Boulders                   44   26   9   9    69   40  +29    87
 4 Umbazi FA                           44   22   5  17    72   45  +27    71
 5 Boufaya Ravens                      44   19  10  15    53   46   +7    67
 6 Busemlu Park SC                     44   19   9  16    41   28  +13    66
 7 Dodoma City SC                      44   17   9  18    54   50   +4    60
 8 Mukegara Warriors                   44   14  13  17    47   55   −8    55
 9 Abomfa United                       44   12   7  25    30   51  −21    43
10 Amaku City FC                       44   13   4  27    28   61  −33    43
11 Kigagana Mountaineers               44   12   5  27    28   60  −32    41
12 Byakado City                        44    7   6  31    27   83  −56    27

The Bears did not hold on! They came out to a blazing hot start- 55 points in their first 22 games. But they accumulated only 35 points during the second half of the season, the mark of a midtable side, not a side competing for a league title. Going from 18 wins, 1 draw, and three losses for the first half of the season to only 11 wins, two draws, and 9 losses for the second half of the season is stunning. The team, in a nutshell, wore down over the course of the season. We said that they'd cruise towards a league title- yet, with three games to go, the league title was won by somebody else.

Sororo City were the most consistent team over the course of the year- 47 points in the first half, 50 points in the second. They played well, and never lost sight of their goal. Being down 8 points, they kept their focus and went all the way to the end. That is why Itala Cola, the new manager from Juvencus, will be praised. A second first year manager, though of course he's managed abroad before, winning a league title in the regional leagues, is expected to make the regional league teams with realistic title hopes- Zakuta City, Pumbasa Bears, etc.. more aggressive on the international market for managers.

Northern League

Northern League                       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Igulu City FC                       44   25  10   9    74   33  +41    85 - LEAGUE CHAMPION; QUALIFIES FOR SBCC QUALIFICATION PLAYOFF
 2 Cerenus United                      44   25   9  10    78   32  +46    84
 3 Duntho Sporting Club                44   24  11   9    60   39  +21    83
 4 Garixas City                        44   23  12   9    52   30  +22    81
 5 Nanami Dragons                      44   22  14   8    62   35  +27    80
 6 Okakameb City                       44   21   7  16    56   43  +13    70
 7 AFC Okahavi                         44   16  13  15    58   51   +7    61
 8 Koksho City                         44   17   9  18    50   53   −3    60
 9 Luguyala Patriots                   44   11  11  22    33   57  −24    44
10 Gadive City                         44    9  11  24    29   66  −37    38
11 Selekawe Knights                    44    5   9  30    33   87  −54    24
12 Thayaferu United                    44    2  12  30    28   87  −59    18

What drama! What a league! The only league that came down to the final day, a stunning five teams were in the running for the league title with just one game left. Igulu City FC and Duntho SC both had 82 points, defending champions Cerenus United had 81 points, Garixas City had 80 points, and the Nanami Dragons had 79 points. While, of course, the chances of the Dragons winning the title were almost zero- they were severely lacking in goal difference- the fact that, going into the final day, five different teams had a chance to win the league title was absolutely shocking.

All ears in the Northern League were glued to their radio sets as the Final Day of matches kicked off. Garixas City hosted the Nanami Dragons, and their game loomed large, as the winner, if there was one, would be vaulted into a great place. Duntho SC visited the Luguyala Patriots, while Cerenus United hosted Gadive City and Igulu City FC hosted AFC Okahavi. All of these games kicked off at the same time, of course, and nervous scoreboard watching was happening alongside some tense action on the pitch.

Garixas City and Nanami Dragons would remain scoreless throughout the entirety of the 90 minutes. It was always going to be a tough one to find a winner- both teams desperately needing a win, but both teams knowing conceding the first goal would essentially kill their chances of winning the league. THe game opened up late, but it was simply not enough. In Luguyala, however, we had an interesting set of circumstances. 33 year old defender Kĩnyua Thuũ scored on himself- headed the ball into the back of his own net to cause Duntho SC to trail 1-0, early. The Luguyala fans, of course, were getting more and more into it, the chance to spoil Duntho's efforts at a league title.

Elsewhere, the defending champs were taking care of business. Lonwabo Dikana in the 3rd minute and Mandilakhe Tyibilika in the 9th gave Cerenus United an early 2-0 lead- one few expected them to relinquish. Which means, going into halftime of these games, Cerenus United was tentatively the champions, as the only team in the race winning their game. A header by Al Qurijan international Naseer Ashfaq Alfarsi in the 49th minute made it 3-0, and essentially ended that game. A win for Cerenus essentially eliminated both Garixas City and the Nanami Dragons, so radio sets turned to the two games still in the balance- Duntho SC's visit to Luguyala, and Igulu City FC's matchup with AFC Okahavi.

Duntho Sporting Club was throwing players forward like crazy. Kamande Muriũki scored in the 63rd minute to make it 1-1, and give their fans a sigh of relief. Igulu City FC, however, had spent the entire matchup with AFC Okahavi knocking on the door, but not scoring. Nebiyou Alemayehu was making save after save for their visitors, while Equestrian midfielder Ed Maestri forced an incredible diving stop from 36 year old captain Eba Salam. It was the other Equestrian on the pitch, however, who would be the difference. 23 year old Kóri Vacík scored with 15 minutes left- a beautiful chip on a breakaway over the keeper, that gave Igulu City FC a 1-0 lead and nearly shook the stadium.

Kóri Vacík would assist on the next goal, a counter-attacking goal by striker Gĩtukũ Kinũthia, and Igulu City FC went up 2-0. The picture was starting to take shape- Igulu City FC would be champions. Duntho Sporting Club, thanks to inferior goal difference, would not be able to win the league title even if they won, which they did not. Scores held at that point, and the Igulu City FC and Cerenus United victories, the Duntho SC draw, and the Garixas City v. Nanami Dragons draw, would result in the standing seen.

This was a huge victory for Abraham Akampurira, the former national team player. Just 36 years old, and in his first year as a manager, he has won the league- a regional league, but the league title- with Igulu City FC. The true test now, however, will come in the SBCC Qualification Playoffs- will he get his team to the Serie B Champions Cup? If he does, this season will be an unqualified success for the former player turned manager- the mark of a man with a great ton of potential.

Regardless, we have our four SBCC Qualification Playoff participants! Corizova United, champions of the Northwestern League. Kabakono City, champions of the Lower Coastal League. Igulu City FC, champions of the Northern League, and Sororo City, champions of the Southern League. After a review by the RBSA, the same format will be used as last season. The four teams will be drawn into one, random, unseeded pot. Then, two ties will be drawn. They will be two-legged affairs, home & away, with the away goals rule in effect, with the aggregate winners of each tie advancing directly to the Serie B Champions Cup. The losers of each two-legged tie will meet in a Playoff Final, a one-off match at the Stadium of the Restoration where there must be a winner. The winner will take the RBSA's third and final spot in the Serie B Champions Cup, and the loser of that game will not participate in international competition.

The RBSA, in a statement, said that they will look to make this format 'permanent', saying that it minimizes games and travel, makes sure no game is meaningless, like one that could happen if they did a straight double round robin, and, of course, maximizes excitement as with each game that is played, the stakes are raised higher and higher and higher.

by **Banija** » Fri Apr 20, 2018 4:48 pm

The Banijan Soccer League - Season 6 Part V

We've arrived at the end of the league season! The Banijan Soccer League has a champion, Banija's remaining UICA spots has been decided, and the league's international qualifiers are set.

Dukuma SC 0–2 Busembe Timberwolves
Bwubanza City SC 0–3 Bunyoro RSC
Rukunbi FC 0–3 Busukuma Athletic Club
Jinja City FC 2–1 Kitara AA
Hoima Warriors 2–1 Askatasuna FC
Isipongo Flash 3–0 Lakiska SC
Herzegovina City FC 4–3 Herzegovina Phoenix
Lwanga Lions 0–1 Istria City FC
Aissa United FC 0–1 Busukuma Force
Mynda Electra 0–1 Umbazi Metropolitan SC

What a day! It was derby day in Herzegovina City, with Herzegovina City FC taking on the Herzegovina Phoenix. And, of course, more was at stake than just the derby, though it was a derby between two rivals who are in the top 4. It was a day with a trophy at stake- with a victory, Herzegovina City would claim the trophy. The trophy, of course, was locked away, being held by BSL officials. Would it not feel satisfying to hoist the trophy in front of your own fans, on derby day?

Herzegovina City FC thought so as well, and they claimed a record attendance for a BSL match- 66,400, with the added seating capacity, at Star Field. Fans from everywhere in the city and surrounding areas knew that, at least for the day, all the eyes of Banijan soccer were on Star Field. And Herzegovina City FC played like they had a mission to accomplish, at least to kick off the game. Season 5 MVP Aarón Aiza scored the opener in the fourth minute, giving the team a 1-0 lead. And Lucas Lucius Vit, the first year HZCFC player from Natanians & Nosts, scored a goal of his own in the 12th minute to gave the league leaders a 2-0 lead.

An early 2-0 lead, on their home field? The Herzegovina City FC fans were sitting on the edges of their seats. Surely, at this point, they'd blow the edges off of their opponents and win big? They were playing with the confidence of champions, and the form of champions- something you'd expect from a team that hadn't lost in the league all season. It was a stunning affair, but the match story was not written. Mark Grayson, with full credit to this manager, kept his team composed in the face of pressure. A team full of veterans, yes, but the young manager was integral to making this a ball game. The Phoenix were not rattled, they stuck with their game-plan, and Chase Pershing, the Brenician striker, scored in the 44th to cut the hosts lead in half, right before the break.

Herzegovina City FC came out firing in the second half, looking to finish the game. They pushed heavily on offense, and Amazonestan striker Guillermo Madruga scored to make it 3-1 in the 55th minute, and many thought it was over. The Phoenix put up a fight, but the hosts were just too strong. But, however, Mark Grayson was not done. 34 year old winger Abram Senay scored in the 67th minute, and team captain Yafet Fekadu scored in the 71st minute, on a header, to level the score. Two goals in the span of four minutes, to level the tie, and go from HZCFC definitely winning the title to the Phoenix possibly dishing them their first loss of the season!

It was not meant to be. And ironically, who scored the winner? A man who has had a challenging couple of seasons. An injury right before the previous Cup of Harmony, forcing him to miss the tournament en route to Banija's last place finish in group play in that tournament. A man, with the shocking rise of Polaris attacker Gitonga Kahara, has seen his starting spot on the national team going from guaranteed in the starting XI, to quite possibly missing out on World Cup 80 Qualifiers all together.

When Elias Abate headed home in the 85th minute, the entire team piled onto him. They celebrated like crazy, and 12 minutes later, the final whistle was blown and they were awarded the title. Brian Emerson, who has been searching for a top flight title in management, one of his many reasons to come out of retirement, ran around like a small child, celebrating. Delbin Kasekende, the longtime Banijan starting goalkeeper who toiled for years at Dukuma SC, losing so many games, knelt down, in tears, at winning a league title. It was great scenes at Star Field, watching everyone react to the league title.

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

Herzegovina City FC, with the league title wrapped up, began to focus on a goal that was seldom talked about, but now has to be their goal- going undefeated. They received the guard of honor for the first time at the home of the defending champions. Which is ironic, of course, as Herzegovina City FC witnessed Istria City FC lift the trophy on the final day last season. In their first visit to Kabonero III Field since then, it was none other than Guillermo Madruga who would be the difference. A strike in the 32nd minute proved to be the difference, and another victory took HZCFC only four games away from going undefeated.

Elsewhere in the league, the race was heating up for the Top 4. Jinja City FC won comfortably away from home, 2-0 over Askatasuna FC. Busukuma AC won a close match, 1-0 over a feisty Bwubanza City SC side. The Phoenix, coming off this tough derby loss away from home, hosted the Isipongo Flash. Even though Brenician striker Chase Pershing scored the opener, he hit the post three more times during the match, which proved to be their undoing. Noah Lamont Hill scored an equalizer in the 88th minute, and the Phoenix and the Flash split the spoils.

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

This was an interesting day in terms of management decisions. The Hoima Warriors took the day to announce that while Carlton Hamilton would assuredly finish out the season, that they had already finished out their coaching search. Jehan Blair, another Cosumarite who managed the Amazonesta National Team for the World Cup 79 Qualification campaign, would be named the manager of the Hoima Warriors for Season 7. He will be the fifth manager of this team since Season 3, and it is hoped, of course, that he will fare better than his predecessors in the position. Of course, the early announcement gives him a couple of games to scout the team, both in practice and in games, and for Hoima, for the first time in a few seasons, to enter the transfer window with a manager in place. This means they will be able to hit the ground running as they look to rebuild their side.

Now, what happened in the games? The Herzegovina Phoenix took one step closer towards qualifying for the UICA, with a big 1-0 away victory over the Hoima Warriors. While the Warriors are not threatening for a UICA spot, they are a still a Super 5 club at home- and that made this a huge win for the Phoenix. There were wins for both Jinja City FC and Busukuma AC, both consistent clubs who were trying to clinch yet another berth in the UICA. Istria City FC won, 3-0 away from home, meaning all four clubs chasing Globe Cup berths took three points today. And the champions took another step closer towards going undefeated, with a 2-1 home victory over the Busukuma Force.

Busembe Timberwolves 1–1 Aissa United FC
Mynda Electra 4–2 Lwanga Lions
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 1–3 Herzegovina City FC
Busukuma Force 2–2 Isipongo Flash
Istria City FC 0–1 Hoima Warriors
Herzegovina Phoenix 2–1 Jinja City FC
Lakiska SC 3–1 Rukunbi FC
Askatasuna FC 0–0 Bwubanza City SC
Kitara AA 2–0 Dukuma SC
Busukuma Athletic Club 1–1 Bunyoro RSC

Herzegovina City FC won again, this time with a 3-1 road victory over Umbazi Metropolitan SC. Can they actually go undefeated? That is a very interesting, and very fascinating question. The champions scored three first half goals- courtesy of Lucas Lucius Vit, Jackson Oglobelo, and Ennis Leishmann. Brian Emerson, even though they already have the trophy, has this team focused and locked in. It is difficult to go undefeated over the course of 38 games in league competition, and Brian Emerson knows that this win will be a legacy sealer, at least here in Banija, as the quality of the BSL continues to rise and improve.

There were a couple of big matchups between teams looking for UICA berths. Firstly, the Herzegovina Phoenix scored a 2-1 victory over Jinja City FC, which will have major implications for where they finish in the league title. Mark Grayson's side came out to a roaring home crowd, and two first half goals from Chase Pershing, who is playing extremely well even at his age, were the difference. Lin Moon drew one back in the second half, but it simply wasn't enough. Alexander Bumba's side were not ready for the Phoenix, as Mark Grayson's side took a major step towards what may be their first ever UICA berth.

The other big game, was a Super 5 matchup. The Hoima Warriors against Istria City FC. It was Hoima, after just losing at home to the Herzegovina Phoenix, who won 1-0 against the Season 5 champions. It was a major loss for Istria City FC, whose loss, coupled with the Phoenix win, puts them behind the Phoenix in what is increasingly looking like a two-horse race for the final spot in the UICA. Former national team player John Katumba, who is debating retirement, scored the game's lone goal in the 51st minute.

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

And yet another day with a big Super 5 matchup! Jinja City FC played host to Istria City FC. And for the second straight week, Jinja City FC fell to yet another team chasing a UICA berth. The lone goalscorer in the match for Jinja City FC was Deonte Bradley, who scored in the 22nd miute for the hosts. Istria City FC, however, came storming back in the second half. After a wonderful run in international play for Istria City FC, including a berth in the Round of 16 of the Atlantian Oceania Champions League, they are now desperately fighting for a chance to get a third straight berth in the UICA. Gutinho and Demetro Laterza both scored in the second half, lifting the previous champions over Jinja City FC.

Elsewhere, there were other matches that played huge factors in the race for Banija's three Globe Cup spots. The Phoenix won a tough, gritty, physical match in Banija's most intimidating environment- Eastern Stadium, the home of Rukunbi FC. Busukuma Athletic Club, the capitol club, actually lost at home, falling 2-1 to the Busembe Timberwolves, who are preparing for their first ever RBSA Cup Final. And Herzegovina City FC played a tough match against Mynda Electra, who are also preparing for their first RBSA Cup Final. They won 2-1, courtesy of a stoppage time winner from Lucas Lucius Vit, in a game where Mynda Electra at least deserved points.

The Lwanga Lions won their final home game, by a score of 2-0 over Aissa United FC. There are many questions facing this club- is this the youth project's last home game in Lwanga? With rumors that the Phoenix are going to attempt to swipe all three players from the Lions- Xavier Melchoir, Phineas Antwell, and Josef Lawerenz- and not to mention, the Hoima Warriors, with a new manager, are expected to be at least in play for a couple of them, will be stories that swirl around the Lions all offseason. Still, for now- all three say they are focused on playing as well as they can for the Lions, so we'll see what happens in the offseason.

Busembe Timberwolves 0–1 Lwanga Lions
Aissa United FC 0–0 Herzegovina City FC
Mynda Electra 2–1 Isipongo Flash
Umbazi Metropolitan SC 2–1 Hoima Warriors
Busukuma Force 1–3 Jinja City FC
Istria City FC 5–0 Rukunbi FC
Herzegovina Phoenix 1–0 Bwubanza City SC
Lakiska SC 4–4 Dukuma SC
Askatasuna FC 0–3 Bunyoro RSC
Kitara AA 1–1 Busukuma Athletic Club

And the final day of the season! The first game that we have to cover, of course, is Herzegovina City FC's visit to last place Aissa United FC. The champions, who have 31 wins and 6 losses, visiting Aissa United FC, who are in dead last. At stake? Herzegovina City FC going undefeated. Aissa United FC, of course, is used to dreamslaying- just ask Jinja City FC about their game last season against Aissa United. Aissa United FC really took the game to HZCFC, but the champions weathered the storm. Delbin Kasekende stood tall, making save after save, and it was clear, going undefeated meant something to them. After 90 minutes, in an uncharacteristic game for the champions- Aissa United FC had 57% of possesion, and had 8 shots on goal, compared to HZCFC's 3, Herzegovina City FC was able to pull it out. Herzegovina City FC had just finished the first undefeated season in league history. And, in the process, the first 100 point season in the history of the BSL. What an accomplishment.

Of course, there was an interesting race atop the table. Busukuma Athletic Club, with 77 points entering Matchday 38, and Jinja City FC with 76 points entering Matchday 38, had already punched their tickets to the Globe Cup- the third straight appearance for each club. While Busukuma Athletic Club drew 1-1 with Kitara AA on the final matchday of the season, Jinja City FC leapfrogged them, however, with a 3-1 victory against the other capitol side, the Busukuma Force. While both teams were in the Top 4 regardless of results, this matters in terms of entry into the Globe Cup. Jinja City FC, with their record-setting fourth straight second place finish in the BSL, will enter later on in qualifiers, and therefore have a slightly better chance of being the first ever Banijan club to enter the group stages of the Globe Cup.

And lastly, the race for fourth place. Istria City FC had 71 points, and the Phoenix had 74 points. Istria City FC was facing a tall order, of course- they knew that they needed to not only win emphatically, but a loss from Mark Grayson's side. They, however, pulled in their part of the bargain. Two goals in the first 8 minutes by Assefa Yitebarke sparked Istria City FC to a 5-0 win over their archrivals, exacting revenge for the pitch invasion that occurred on Matchday 19 of the season. The Phoenix then knew, the pressure was on. A draw would be good enough against Bwubanza City SC, but this veteran laden team wanted to ensure its legacy- as the squad that began the push towards new heights for the Herzegovina Phoenix.

The Phoenix came to handle business against Bwubanza City SC, and largely, they did so. This was, however, not without controversy. On a counter attack, in the 38th minute, a through ball was sent up the field to Manasses Teshome, Bwubanza's striker. Teshome actually scored, but was incorrectly ruled offside. It was a very close call, a bang bang play- but something that is sure to be addressed by the BSL in the coming days. It was none other than Chase Pershing, the revitalized Brenician striker, who scored the winner in the 63rd minute. And that, was that.

And Season 6 is a wrap! While, of course, the RBSA Cup Final is still to be played, that is the end of Season 6. Now, of course, this is the point where we usually give our final observations- but we, at the magazine, feel it more prudent to do that after the end of the RBSA Cup Final. Talk about which players best made their case for their participation in World Cup 80 Qualifying, what this season means for some of Banija's clubs, and much, much more. We'll have that detailed analysis, after the end of the RBSA Cup Final.

Final Season 6 BSL Standings

Banijan Soccer League         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Herzegovina City FC         38   31   7   0    75   19  +56   100 - QUALIFY FOR AOCL + CHAMPIONS CUP
 2 Jinja City FC               38   25   4   9    74   38  +36    79 - QUALIFY FOR GLOBE CUP
 3 Busukuma Athletic Club      38   23   9   6    65   23  +42    78 - QUALIFY FOR GLOBE CUP
 4 Herzegovina Phoenix         38   23   8   7    63   31  +32    77 - QUALIFY FOR GLOBE CUP
 5 Istria City FC              38   22   8   8    65   31  +34    74
 6 Hoima Warriors              38   20   4  14    50   36  +14    64
 7 Bunyoro RSC                 38   18   8  12    64   40  +24    62
 8 Busembe Timberwolves        38   15   9  14    37   33   +4    54
 9 Mynda Electra               38   14   9  15    56   58   −2    51
10 Umbazi Metropolitan SC      38   15   6  17    39   45   −6    51
11 Isipongo Flash              38   12  10  16    47   53   −6    46
12 Lwanga Lions                38   12   7  19    38   58  −20    43
13 Kitara AA                   38   11   9  18    45   55  −10    42
14 Busukuma Force              38   11   9  18    38   60  −22    42
15 Rukunbi FC                  38   11   5  22    33   59  −26    38
16 Dukuma SC                   38   10   7  21    36   67  −31    37
17 Askatasuna FC               38    8  12  18    31   58  −27    36
18 Bwubanza City SC            38    8  10  20    32   58  −26    34
19 Lakiska SC                  38    6   9  23    26   63  −37    27
20 Aissa United FC             38    6   8  24    29   58  −29    26

by **Banija** » Sat Apr 21, 2018 8:50 am

Timberwolves win first ever national trophy by defeating Mynda Electra 2-1 in RBSA Cup Final

Timberwolves players hold RBSA Cup Winners Medals at the Stadium of the Restoration

RBSA Cup FInal
Busembe Timberwolves 2–1 Mynda Electra

BUSUKUMA- The Busembe Timberwolves lifted their first ever trophy on the national level, as their magical run through the RBSA Cup offered everything and more that they could have possibly dreamed of. This is why people love domestic cups, right? It is, when leagues are dominated by just a couple of teams at the top, a chance for everybody to get their hands on some of the spoils, even if they couldn't necessarily do so over the course of a 38 game, double round robin league campaign. A final with two non-Super 5 teams- the Busembe Timberwolves and Mynda Electra, both teams that have long been midtable sides, finally got to have the spotlight all on their own, without big clubs like Herzegovina City FC, who went undefeated in the league, or Jinja City, or Hoima, or whomever else, looming over them.

The Timberwolves had a very fascinating, and captivating, run through the RBSA Cup. They opened the RBSA Cup with a pair of away victories over teams that, frankly, the Timberwolves were supposed to beat. A 2-0 victory away from home over Ogbordu Diamond Football Club in the Round of 32 was not unexpected, as Ogbordu Diamond are in the Lower Coastal League, and they ended up finishing fourth in the regional system. Of course, they then visited Lakiska SC, one of the two BSL sides who are on the Busoga Islands, who have long been considered cellar dwellar sides. A 1-0 victory on the road there, with the winner scored by Brendan Ediomgi, punched the Timberwolves ticket to the quarterfinals.

Still, at this point, the Timberwolves had been the favorites the whole time, even if they had played away from home. In the quarterfinals, they were able to earn their first home matchup, against Askatasuna FC. Julio Leal and Kabir Jobateh were the goalscorers on the day, as they earned a 2-1 comeback victory over Askatasuna FC to punch their ticket to the semifinals. The belief, in the locker room, was real. Could they actually do this? And then, of course, in the semifinals, they drew Jinja City FC. En route to their fourth straight second place finish in the league- definitely some sort of Banijan record- Jinja City FC was a team who, after all these years of close but no cigar, deserved a trophy. But the Wolf's Den was rocking, and the Timberwolves punched their ticket to the final.

The Final was an entertaining game. Considering neither squad was expected to be here, we expected a free-flowing matchup heading into the game. We expected both teams to be playing attacking football, as both teams understood this- this could be the best chance for either side to win a trophy in a very long time, and they did not want to let it go to waste. Of course, this is also very good for the Electra owners of Mynda Electra, as the Damukuni corporation has to be happy that their first year inside Banijan soccer, they were able to put a team in the Final of the RBSA Cup.

The Timberwolves were able to draw first blood. Di Bradini Cup star Kabir Jobateh was the man who would open the scoring. He received the ball at about the 18 with Mynda Electra defender Saa Mensah draped all over him. He however, took one step to his right, and blasted the ball into the far corner of the net. It was a stunning effort, an excellent strike, and the Busembe half of the crowd lost their collective minds, as the score was 1-0 to the Timberwolves. They were able to take this lead into halftime, and it was a good advantage to have, even in a matchup that was so close.

The game was, however, still extremely close. The score was 1-0, and everyone knew that whoever scored the next goal- if there was a next goal- would have a profound impact on deciding who the winner was. The game, at this point, turned physical. Yellow cards started to be handed out, and players on both teams were desperate- particularly 38 year old Timberwolves goalkeeper Neway Kidane, who had told reporters that he would be retiring from the sport at the end of the season. He got himself a yellow, and 36 year old skipper Julio Leal- a member of the Amazonesta team that won their Baptism of Fire- got a yellow as well, trying to add some Banijan silverware to his trophycase.

It was the team's other Amazonestan, HIstero Golazo, who would make the difference in the game for the Timberwolves. A 63rd minute corner kick was swung across, and was headed towards the penalty spot. Barry Horlock, the Nepharim defender for Mynda Electra, headed the ball away from the net and sent it towards Julio Leal at the top of the 18. He dribbled to his right, and passed the ball to Golazo, who curled it in from about 12-15 yards away. It was an incredible strike, and the Timberwolves found themselves with a 2-0 lead. They could almost taste the trophy.

Mynda Electra fought hard, but the Timberwolves never let go of the lead. An 89th minute header from Samson Gashi made the score 2-1, but that was a matter of too little, too late. That was their last shot on goal, and when the final whistle blew, the Timberwolves players ran around, celebrating. Julio Leal, who is likely to retire now that he has medals with both his national team and his club team, lifted the trophy, as the team engaged in boisterous celebrations. They will play in the Cygnus Cup Winners Cup- entering as massive underdogs, but of course, as you know in cup play- anything can happen.

A full-hearted congratulations to them from this magazine for their accomplishments.

Serie B Champions Cup Places Decided

The format for the Serie B Champions Cup Qualification playoffs is relatively simple, even if it is unusual. The champions, and only the champions, of Banija's four largest regional leagues, which are the Lower Coastal League, the Northern League, the Southern League, and Northwestern League, qualify for the Serie B Champions Cup Qualification Playoffs. Those teams, this season, are Kabakono City, Corizova United, Sororo City, and Igulu City FC. Only Corizova United, out of these four teams, has qualified for these playoffs before.

The teams are then randomly drawn one opponent, in an unseeded draw- similar to how the draw works for the RBSA Cup. A two-legged tie between those teams will then occur, which means that there are two ties that are happening. The away goals rule is used as a tiebreaker, and the ties are played home and away. The winner of each tie, on aggregate, qualifies directly to the Serie B Champions Cup. The loser of each tie will play in a one-off match, called the Serie B Champions Cup Qualification Playoff Final, where there must be a winner. This match is played at the Stadium of the Restoration, which is the national stadium and has hosted a number of important international matches, including the 67th Globe Cup Final and the 67th Baptism of Fire Final.

This year, the first draw was Corizova United against Kabakono City, with Corizova United at home first. Corizova United, of course, qualified for the Serie B Champions Cup last season. Al Iska, it seems, knew what he is doing. He had been here before. A 1-0 win at home in the first leg, with the lone goal being scored by Bubacar Senghore in the 37th minute, set him up perfectly for the second leg. No away goals conceded, and a victory, meant that a clean sheet would take them to the Serie B Champions Cup. They got one, with Al Iska parking the bus away from home and getting what was necessary to go to international club competition for the second straight season.

The other tie was Sororo City against Igulu City FC. While the first tie only saw one goal across 180 minutes, this one was much more exciting. Neither team had played in these playoffs before, in matches of these magnitude, and therefore, the atmosphere was electric at Sororo City Park, as the 10,300 capacity stadium was full. The first half of the first leg was back and forth, as each team scored twice to make it 2-2 at the half. Sororo City's wingers, Bailo Camara and Boubacar Kinte, scored for them in the first half, while Kóri Vacík and Kenyatta Mũraya scored for the visitors. With those two away goals, however, it was Igulu City FC who were looking like they were in good shape.

But in the second half, Sororo City turned the tables. Itala Cola, the Juvencus manager, made some brilliant halftime adjustments. Al Qurijan left midfielder Mus'ad Asad Abdulrashid was unleashed, and scored two goals in the second half. He shored up his leaking defense, moving Badara Jarju to play further back and hold more possesion against an Igulu City FC side looking to attack. Sororo City scored three goals in the second half, to make the final score after the first leg 5-2. Igulu City FC found themselves in an almost impossible deep hole to climb out of. and while Njoroge Kĩnyua and Watene Mũrĩmi both scored in the second leg, it was too little, too late for Igulu City FC as they could not find the necessary third goal, and Sororo City advanced to the Serie B Champions Cup.

Serie B Champions Cup Qualification Rounds
Corizova United 1–0 Kabakono City  1-0   0-0   Corizova United advances to Serie B Champions Cup
Sororo City 5–4 Igulu City FC  5-2   0-2   Sororo City advances to Serie B Champions Cup

And now, for the final game of the league season. The Serie B Champions Cup Qualification Playoff Final. Kabakono City and Igulu City FC, meeting for a one-off match at the Stadium of the Restoration. The winner would earn the final spot in the Serie B Champions Cup, while the loser would not see international competition during the year. Now, as often happens in Finals, nerves take over, and the game is stale. There is not much attacking, as people are more worried about conceding. Both teams played like that, and it was a very boring, 0-0 matchup with few chances for either side, across 120 minutes.

The match, with no goals after 120 minutes, went to penalties. It was down to the two goalkeepers- 36 year old captain Eba Salam of Igulu City FC, and the youngster, the 20 year old goalkeeper at Kabakono City, Karafa Touray. Interestingly enough, both teams skied their first penalties. Kabakono City, however, hit their next four, and a save by Touray on the fourth one was the decider. With 19 year old Senay Dejene burying the fifth and final penalty, for the second straight season, the winner of the Playoff Final advanced to the Serie B Champions Cup on penalties.

Serie B Champions Cup Qualification Playoff Final
Kabakono City 0–0 Igulu City FC (0–0 AET) (4–2 pen.)   Kabakono City advances to Serie B Champions Cup

This means the RBSA's three Serie B Champions Cup Qualifiers will be Kabakono City, Sororo City, and Corizova United, with Igulu City FC being the one out of the four league champions to not qualify for the Serie B Champions Cup. Interestingly enough, it will be the second straight season that the Northern League champion will not qualify for the Serie B Champions Cup. It's only been two seasons, but that is interesting to note- will it develop into a pattern? Regardless, all of Banija's international cup places are set, as these three teams will look to make a leap forward from Banija's appearance in this competition last season.

All-Banija Sports Magazine

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