Baker Park Open Cup (RP/roster/everything thread) FINAL!

[Joshenia]

Joshenia Start Baker Park Open Cup with a bang by beating Darmen Ladies


The Joshenian Eagles started terribly after falling behind the Darmen ladies, after Clarisse MacDaniel through a set piece fired home from 25 yards, catching young keeper Jörg Weisz off-guard.
The set piece was conceded after Phillipp Weiss collided with Darmen left foward,Cassandra Madison on the edge of the box. Phillip Weiss, the 23 year old midfielder was given a stern warning before the Darmen ladies went one up silencing Joshenian fans in the stadium.
Despite the set back Joshenian players seemed to play well. Bernd Egger looked threatening for Joshenia up front and the counter attack looked like a possible equalizer. however, Darmen's Pamela Lesley cleared up well in the box- but Joshenia failed to make anything of the corner. Bernd Egger scuffed another chance in the 28th minute before finally in the 35th minute, Joshenian Captain- Torsten Sanger rifled home the equalizer from the penalty spot after Sebastian Baum had been brought down in the penalty area by Pamela Lesley.
Joshenia had several chances to take the lead, however Darmeni keeper Freja Pearce turned up for the occasion saving shot after shot from the Joshenian fowards before finally failing to withstand the barrage of shots in the 68th minute from super sub- Daniel Freys goal.

[Cassadaigua]

Team Cassadaigua
Men’s National Team

Starters In Green
Substitutes In Blue
Reserves In Red

Coach- Jeremy Butler (49)

Goalkeepers:
#21- Robert Nunez (21)- Reserve DBC 42
#20- Andrew Commodore (26)
#30- Donavan Bechard (29)

Defenders:
#2- Matthew Donegal (21)- Starter DBC 43
#3- Carlos Martinez (26) ** Team Captain **
#4- Michael Connor (28)
#6- Jeffrey Lombardo (30)
#24- Eric Keegan (25)
#27- Kyle Slattery (27)
#35- Adam Finnegan (22)- Sub DBC 43
#37- Daniel Porter (29)

Midfielders:
#8- Zack Pierce (21)- Starter DBC 42, Reserve WC 80
#12- Benjamin Bechard (23)
#16- Austin Morrelli (24)
#22- Louis Perino (23)
#25- Kevin Vernaci (32)
#26- Jason Lamberton (24)
#31- Clifford Derrick (28)
#34- Joseph Wasden (29)

Forwards:
#19- Tyrone Branch (20)- Reserve DBC 42
#23- Eddie Malone (24)
#28- Jorge Cortez (25)
#29- Richard Shippert (34)
#32- Scott Crumpler (30)
#33- Ian Howler (28)
#36- Nick Tasseler (23)

Team Info:
Style Mod (if applicable): +2
Formation: 4-4-2
People from Cassadaigua are referred to as Cassadagans.
Team nickname: Fillies. Also, we are commonly referred to as the Dagans (Note: This team would not be called the Fillies. Stick with "Dagans")

RP Permissions:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod scoring events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes but only say they hurt
Godmod injuries to my players: No
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out red cards to my players: Yes, no more then one more then you give yourself.
Godmod other events: TG idea first. If it fits the theme of my team, I probably will allow it.

Retired Kit Numbers: (Numbers are retired at all levels of Cassadagan soccer)
#1 is retired in honor of Allison Salamida
#5 is retired in honor of Michelle Fuller
#7 is retired in honor of Shannon Myers
#10 is retired in honor of Brittany Lawton
#11 is retired in honor of Courtney Ferguson
#13 is retired in honor of Meaghan Bateman
#14 is retired in honor of Stacie Kerrigan-Fraser
#15 is retired in honor of Erica Lambert
#17 is retired in honor of Jessica Schanke
#18 is retired in honor of Taylor Connolly

[Cassadaigua]

Men Playing in Baker Park,
by Chelsea Dufresne, Concord Heights

The best male players in Cassadaigua are getting a chance to show their talents at the international level, as they take part in the Baker Park Open Cup. Baker Park is a nation that has recently made an impression on the international scene, starting with having success in the Di Bradini Cup a couple times before finishing as the runner up in Baptism of Fire 67. They carried that momentum into World Cup qualifying, and managed to join a short list of nations who qualified for the Cup on the first attempt. Now, the nation is looking to bring some of the best players and teams to their homeland, and they get started by hosting this soccer tournament. Organizers put forth a set of guidelines that they were looking to make it a same sex tournament, and suggested that nations provide an opportunity for the gender that might not otherwise get much of an opportunity in the participating nations. Short of that, it suggested teams bring a “B” team.

Queen Cassie II will look to take some credit for this opportunity for Cassadagan males to show they can compete at a high level as well. If you are interested in following the tournament, games will be broadcasted live throughout the country, and of course our team will hope for as much support as possible. For players like midfielder Zack Pierce, considered a great up and coming talent, this is a chance to show that he deserves a bigger role on the main World Cup team. Pierce should be a part of that team, but it is doubtful that he will be more then a reserve. A fine effort here could change that. “This is a great chance for all of us. There is no question in my mind that we can show that we belong against any of these other national teams. If we have success, then as individuals, we will get a stronger chance at being part of the main team. Recently, our World Cup rosters have been more inclusive, so we know there will be a spot for us if we can prove ourselves.”

The men got off to a good start, beating a team from Free Republics by the score of 2-1. The Free Republics roster is an older roster by their standards, and is led by the well known Rule Theriault. They are captained by Kyle Bolton, another well known name in that country. Bolton scored the opening goal of the match as well, coming in the 16th minute, but as the game wore on, the age disparity between the two teams became pretty evident. Tyrone Branch got a 38th minute equalizer, and then after dominating the second half, Zack Pierce scored in the 71st to put the Dagans up 2-1. Next up will be the host nation themselves, fielding women, at Newport City Stadium. Pierce smiled when asked if he’d love to beat an all-female team, “You know it!” he said with a wink.

[Banija]

Banija Women's National Team

Information
Country code: BNJ
Denonym: Banijan(s)
Association: Royal Banijan Soccer Association(RBSA)
Nickname: The Lionesses
Manager: Xamara Yuusa. 49 years old.
Captain: Kenanjaye Dibba
Alternate Captain: Ndey Tiyana.
Home Kits: Green
Away Kits: White
Alternate: Orange

This is, of course, the third-ever rendition of the Banijan Women's National Team. As adult sports are strictly gender-segregated by Banijan law, and with the general integration of sports on the international scale, the Banijans send their men to compete on the world stage, and therefore, outside of the Olympic Games, there are very few opportunities for Banijan female athletes to show their stuff. Due to cultural attitudes and such, there are no female professional sports leagues in Banija, so the players are generally drawn from the college scene, where women's soccer is pretty big, or drawn from other leagues. A women's national team has only formed on two occasions, actually- the X Summer Olympiad in Electrum, and the XI Summer Olympiad in Aeropag, Commerce Heights. They got dead last in their four team group in the X Summer Olympiad, and fell at the first hurdle of Olympic Qualification for the XI Summer Olympiad. Their lack of regular minutes together means, of course, they won't be able to develop much of a history.

In particular, many of Banija's best female soccer players go on to play in the United Hoofball Association, the closest league, geographically, where they have an opportunity to showcase their skills. Teams within the United Hoofball Association have made a visible effort to bring in Banijan women, understanding that they are the major opportunity for Banija's female soccer players to have a legitimate professional career.

Jerseys

Full credit to Filindostan for the design and production of these jersies. Thank you very much!

RP Permissions
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Choose Scoring Events: Yes
Godmod scoring events: No
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out red cards to my players: Yes
RP Injuries to my players: Yes(please state what injury they have suffered and how many games they will miss).
Godmod injuries to my players: Yes(please state what injury they have suffered and how many games they will miss).
Godmod other events: Yes
Style modifier: +1

Do whatever you want besides godmodding the actual goals(I prefer the actual goals to be real). If anybody dies, please TG me who so I can replace them.

Roster

Starters: 4-4-2
Players who are not professionals(and therefore available to be signed) are in
GK #1 Ndey Tiyana. 32 years old. Plays for the Seaddle Sounders in the Equestrian States in the United League.
RB #3 Bassin Ceesay. 29 years old. Plays for the Everfree Guardians in the Equestrian States.
CB #2 Satang Kandeh. 32 years old. Plays for the New Cloudsdale Colonists.
CB #5 Mama Jallow. 31 years old. Plays for the Cloudsdale Colts in the Equestrian States.
LB #4 Halima Kargbo. 27 years old. Plays for the Manehattan Dragons in the Equestrian States in the United League.
CDM #6 Channeh Jarju. 23 years old. Plays for the Canterlot Stars in the Equestrian States in the United League.
RM #7 Kenenjaye Dibba. 32 years old. Plays for Sweet Apple City in the Equestrian States in the United League. Captain.
LM #8 Aisa Kujabi. 21 years old. Senior at the University of Loyola-Istria.
CAM #10 Yari Conateh. 28 years old. Plays for Stalliongrad HC in the Equestrian States in the United League.
ST #9 Musukebba Bajo. 27 years old. Plays for the Zellbon Zeppelins in Drawkland.
ST #11 Fayven Biri. 21 years old. Senior at Northern Moravica University.
Bench:
GK #12 Anti Kandeh. 19 years old. Redshirt Freshman at Kizza I University.
GK #25 Rohey Bajo. 18 years old. Freshman at the University of Moravica.
RB #27 Musakuta Njie. 26 years old. Plays for Marseille HC in the Crystal Empire.
CB #20 Maseray Suso. 20 years old. Redshirt Sophomore at Wild Valley University.
CB #13 Juka Sene. 34 years old. Plays for the Featherwood Hydras in the Equestrian States.
LB #31 Ajamboon Nyang. 26 years old. Plays for Las Pegasus Blues in the Equestrian States.
CDM #19 Fatou Biri. 25 years old. Plays for the Baltimare Dynamo in the Equestrian States.
LM #17 Kebebushe Gedarm. 19 years old. Redshirt Freshman at the Islamic University of Busoga.
RM #19 Hewan Teshome. 21 years old. Redshirt Junior at Northern Moravica University.
CAM #14 Daba Kambi. 31 years old. Plays for the Baltimare Broncos in the Equestrian States.
ST #18 Sololeya Hewan. 22 years old. Redshirt Senior at the University of Loyola-Istria.
ST #22 Zubeda Bahta.

Notes:
- Musukebba Bajo will almost never come off the field unless there is injury, or the game is already out of hand(second half 3 goal lead for either side). Otherwise, she cannot be subbed.

[Banija]

Banija's women take center stage in Baker Park


Banijan women hit the training ground

COOLVILLE- And for the first time ever in a non-Olympic setting, the RBSA has formed a women's national team for a tournament. This time, for the Baker Park Open Cup- the first ever international tournament hosted within the Commonwealth of Baker Park. Of course, as many of our readers know, there are quite a few sporting connections, and a few much deeper than that, between Banija and Baker Park. The Commonwealth of Baker Park, on Banijan soil, made a run to the 67th Baptism of Fire Final, and, of course, Banija & Baker Park both qualified for their first ever World Cup Finals in the previous World Cup, World Cup 80. The men, of course, finally did it on their seventh try, while Baker Park is in a unique place, like Drawkland- 100% World Cup Qualification record.

It makes tons of sense, then, why the RBSA would be interested in this tournament. Of course, the question then remains- why send the women's team? RBSA Chairman Adama Sowe saw this as an opportunity to expand both the brand and profile of Banijan soccer, leading up to the World Cup on home soil. "We are preparing heavily to host the World Cup, and working with all the stakeholders to make sure it goes out without a hitch- regional governments, municipal governments, BSL owners, and that's just here at home. We're having people work with our bid partners, the Free Republics, and the World Cup Committee, to ensure that the tournament goes out without a hitch.

We decided to send the women's team here because they, too, deserve a profile. The Olympics are a great sporting event, but ever so rare. This is the chance for the ladies to take center stage. What an opportunity to compete, and for those who are in college, give themselves an international stage if they want to play abroad in the future? It is an excellent opportunity, and develops the sport in our country in general." The history of the women's national team is short, but poor. In the X Summer Olympics, in Prescott, Electrum, the national team finished last in its four team group, quickly bowing out of the Games without making so much as a whimper. The XI Summer Olympiad, in Aeropag, was even worse. They fell at the first hurdle, losing the first of a series of two-legged ties which served as qualifiers for those games, 1-0 to Ferkas.

And now, here they are. Who are these women? Who should we watch for in this tournament? Who can make an impact for these Lionesses to make an impact on this tournament? Of course, any discussion of women's soccer within our country cannot start without mentioning the Equestrian States. With professional soccer in Banija barred to females by law, the careers of many women end the day they use their four years of academic eligibility. Of course, teams in the United Hoofball Association, and particularly the Equestrian States, have used that to their advantage. A number of teams have established scouting networks in Banija for the country's female players, and they are almost always uncontested when they choose to pursue. 13 of these 22 players that were brought to Baker Park, of course, play in the Equestrian States.

But how can this team do? Well, let's throw those old Olympic results out the window- they don't matter anymore, even the slightest. It was so long ago, nobody is possibly using players from those games not only in this tournament, but in general. So let's start with, essentially, a blank slate. Where is the talent? Let's look in the midfield. WIde midfielder Kenenjaye Dibba was named the captain for this tournament, and deservingly so. 32 years old, she is a serious veteran, and has consistently given Sweet Apple City quality minutes for years, as they stay in the top flight of the United Hoofball Association- also known as the United League. She can be extremely effective. Yari Conateh as well, is very capable of being effective.

The star to watch for, however, is Musukebba Bajo. She is the only player on this team who did not come from either a United Hoofball Association club or Banija's college soccer scene. She is a product of the college soccer scene- she had a dominant career at Northern Moravica University, and now plays for the Zellbon Zeppelins in Drawkland. THe star striker is in the prime of her career, at 27 years old, and she is going to certainly look to make a mark on this tournament. She can move quickly, she has quite a shot- if she can combine well with Fayven Biri, who currently attends Bajo's alma mater, this team can be extremely dangerous, especially on the offensive end.

The Banijans come into the tournament, naturally, at a disadvantage. The ladies of Abanhfleft took it to the Banijans in game #1 of this tournament, defeating the Lionesses 3-0. They simply broke down the defense- but Xamara Yussa, the 49 year old woman called upon to manage this team, said that the team is certainly ripe and improve upon this performance. The game had festivities, of course, when Secretary Delaney officially welcomed the Banijan national team to the country.

Nobody likes getting smoked, of course, and now they have to play a confident Joshenia squad, that just beat the women of Darmen, 2-1. How will that game though? We have no idea- we expect the Lionesses to not come out as flat as they did against Abanhfleft, and since they lost their first game, there is almost no margin for error on Matchday 2 for the Lionesses- a loss here would surely end their chances of making any sort of impact on how this group finishes out.

Banija is travelling to a smaller city for this game, in Alton. They will be re-opening the War Memorial Stadium, alongside Joshenia, for their matchday 2 encounter. Who will win? You'd have to imagine that Joshenia are the favorites- winners in their first game while the Banijans got smoked, meaning they have confidence while Banija's women don't, but at short tournaments such as these, you have to remember this key- anything can happen on any given day. That's why you play the games, right? Banija is an underdog, but if this team is anything like their male counterparts, it is a role they will embrace. They will wear it as a source of motivation, to defeat Joshenia, and get right back in the mix of things. Make sure to tune in when the match airs live on public television!

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

© Sporting Times Daily 2019
Matchday 2 for the BP Ladies
by Mindy Cartwright, National Soccer Writer

Following their 1-0 win against Freeport Islands, the Commonwealth Women's Team look forward to hosting Cassadaigua at the Newport City Stadium this evening. Manager Pam Scott expects to see better performance from her side relative their showing in Ezriquay. "Teething problems mostly. Getting all of them on the same page. AB (Annabeth Westmoreland) and Daisy (Callum) haven't had much experience with this group; Daisy hasn't even been in the national team for over 2 years. That's the reason we tried to surround them some players who are a bit more cohesive."

Scott said fans should expect to see a good amount of changes in the lineup tonight. "With this format, there's no reason why we shouldn't be able to get everyone playing time, which is the whole point. "

Caroline Gordon will come in for Mollie Pelletier in goal, while Julie Ackerman will take the place of Tracy Vasillias in central defense and Sarah Foreman replacing Faith Enzikomibo on the right; Veronica Navarro will be on right wing and Amanda Hayes will deputize for Erica Shaw in midfield. Up front, Jackie Thomas will get a second straight start and will be partnered with Sabrina Patton, while Samantha Bradley, the breakout star for the Under 18's in Abanhfleft will get her first senior cap just a few miles from her current place of residence, the Naval Officers School. There should be a bit more local interest than usual with the appearance of the 2nd year cadet in the side.

The Cassadaigua team they face will provide a contrast from the only previous meeting of the two nations in the DBC 42--that Under 21 team was predominantly female, against the all male BP team--but the roles will be reversed here; the Daigans defeated Free Republics 2-1 at Collins Park, so this will be a battle for the top spot in Group A.

Scott thought there would be a good motive for the men coming in. "They are getting a prime spot to show what they can do away from the glare of their fans at home--a country where women are the dominant gender, and they will be looking to make a mark against the hosts. I think it'll be a great match."

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

Cutoff shorts and bare feet for all. Rock & Roll between the Toes BABY!!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R82OM5tzcrk

Group A (scored by S Toronto)
Freeport Isles 2–1 Federation of Free Republics
Baker Park 3–3 Cassidaigua
                   Pld W D L   GF GA  GD Pts 
1 Cassidaigua 	   2   1 1 0    5  4  +1   4
2 Baker Park 	   2   1 1 0    4  3  +1   4
3 Freeport Isles   2   1 0 1    2  2   0   3
4 Free Republics   2   0 0 2    2  4  −2   0

Group B

Swibia 1–0 Maryloupe
Equestrian States 2–3 S Toronto

                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 S Toronto              2   2  0  0    7   4  +3    6
2 Equestrian States      2   1  0  1    4   4   0    3
3 Swibia                 2   1  0  1    2   2   0    3
4 Maryloupe              2   0  0  2    2   5  −3    0

Group C

Joshenia 2–5 Banija
Darmen 5–4 Abanhfleft

                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Abanhfleft             2   1  0  1    7   5  +2    3
2 Darmen                 2   1  0  1    6   6   0    3
3 Banija                 2   1  0  1    5   5   0    3
4 Joshenia               2   1  0  1    4   6  −2    3

[Cassadaigua]

Entertaining Draw With Hosts,
by Chelsea Dufresne, Concord Heights Times

The second game of the Baker Park Open Cup saw our men going up against the host nation. It would not be the main team and players that the hometown fans are accustomed too, as their top female players would be in action against our top male players. This of course made for an interesting storyline for our team, and that was not lost on Zach Pierce. “It’s something to go up against women like this, knowing that the are in the same predicament in their homeland that we are in our own homeland. I’m not sure if they wanted to beat us as badly as we wanted to beat them just on that basis alone.” Pierce probably is not completely correct, of course. Other countries, such as Baker Park are more inclusive towards women then we have been with men, but you get the general idea of what he was trying to say. This game means something to them, and in fact, all the games against female teams will provide that additional spark amongst the roster.

Early on the match, the Dagans had some difficulty containing the Brianne Whitestone in the midfield. The inspired play by these two set up brilliant opportunities for their forwards, including two in the first twelve minutes for Valerie Agahambri. However, she was unable to put either of them away, thanks to alert goalkeeping by Robert Nunez. Kristen Speller, the starting goalkeeper for the main senior team was in attendance and was one of the most vocal supporters of her. She posted on Spacebook after the second save that, “I think my job may be in danger! Wow!” Of course, Speller’s job is not in any danger whatsoever, but it was good to see that support. However, Nunez eventually saw his good fortune wear off, as a 19th minute goal by Jackie Thomas made it 1-0 in favor of the home team. Down by a goal, the momentum began to shift towards Cassadaigua, and Tyrone Branch tied it up in the 30th minute with a strike that the keeper misplayed a bit. Late in the first half, Zack Pierce set up Benjamin Bechard for a 43rd minute score, and suddenly, it was Cassadaigua going into the locker room with the lead, being up 2-1.

This was an intense game, and Brianne Whitestone again became the best player on the pitch. In the 55th minute, she did not look to set up a teammate, and instead used them as a decoy as she set her own sights on the goal. With a perfectly placed shot, the game was all tied up again. Twelve minute later, Nunez would again rob Valerie Agahambri, apparently he just had her number in this match, but Amanda Hayes was in perfect position for the rebound, and fired it home to make it 3-2. Now, once again the fans were happy. However, this Cassadagan team was not going to go away, and aggressively pushed for an equalizer in the final ten minutes of the game. In the 86th minute, that effort was rewarded when Eddie Malone scored off a corner. This see-saw game would end 3-3, and may have been the game of the tournament so far in terms of entertainment value, but of course, we are biased. Both teams deserved to win, and in the end, neither lost.


Rumor Mill: New Lakeland Wants Whitestone?

The New Lakeland Tycoons, one of the richer franchises in Cassadagan soccer may have been watching this game extra closely. An anonymous source close to the team mentioned that the Tycoons are, "Prepared to make Whitestone a very wealthy woman if she wants to come play domestic soccer for a top flight team, and not have to be in a nation's secondary ladies league."

[Banija]

Big time win for Banijan women leave everything to play for on final group stage matchday


Banijans celebrate their opening goal against Joshenia

ALTON, COMMONWEALTH OF BAKER PARK- In a game with quite a large number of Banijan fans, the Banijan women put on a show in front of many of their countrymen. There is, of course, a large Banijan migrant population in nearby Mansfield- a short ride away to Alton, where the Banijan women are playing their matches in this tournament. There was fan support in their game against Abanhfleft, even though they got smoked by the Fleftics. However, in this second match, the team was much more comfortable. Once again, a large amount of local fan support, and a much improved performance on the pitch, saw this team flip the script on the tournament. They instead took the game to their opponents, going up by a stunning score of 5-0 at one point, with the final score being 5-2 in their victory over Joshenia.

What a stunning turnaround of a performance, wasn't it? Instead of the game being taken to them, the Banijan women played as if they had nothing to lose. And truly, they did have nothing to lose. They were in last place in the group, and even though there were not many eyes turned toward them back at home, they were getting great support from the very involved Banijan migrant community within the country. Mansfield is rumored to being considered nearly a 'done deal' to get a team in the Greater Banijan Hockey League, as the league looks to shed its college teams and expand- though, of course, that is another story for another day.

The migrant community in Mansfield made the trek, once again, to show their support for the Banijan ladies. We've been over, of course, how women's sports is generally viewed at home- while well supported on the collegiate level, it is virtually ignored at the professional level. There are no women's professional sports leagues, and with the legal ban on the integration of professional men's and women's sports within the country, there are very few opportunities for women to play after college. As a result, many at home are not watching.

But don't tell that to many of the various Banijan communities abroad. Almost all of them have very different attitudes on women and men participating together in professional sports. It is something that is seen almost all over the multiverse- bar a number of nations, and particularly, our own. But many of the Banijan migrant communities abroad- from the Little Istria neighborhood in T.V. City in Qasden, to Stalliongrad in the Equestrian States, to both Montreal and Quebec City in the Royal Kingdom of Quebec, to even right here in Baker Park, in Mansfield, see things differently. Many of them say why is there a need for such an explicit segregation? Why can't the best player, regardless of gender, always take the field?

But, of course, the RBSA is run by those at home, and there is the law- so it stays where it is. That said, large numbers of Banijan fans were on hand for the second game, against Joshenia, essentially a must win. With Abanhfleft having three points and so far ahead in goal difference, alongside Joshenia having already won a game, Banija needed three points to get back into the hunt if they wanted a chance at winning this thing. And boy, did they get the job done.

Musukebba Bajo came into the game with a determined look on her face. The team's closest thing to a superstar, she was shut down against Abanhfleft. What would she do her second time out? The striker was all over the field today. She forced a diving save from the opposing goalkeeper in the 3rd minute, showing she meant business, and the Banijans, all pushing ever so forward, were playing dangerously. They were likely to score, but if they got exposed on the counter.. Things could be ugly. However, Mama Jallow, of the Cloudsdale Colts, scored on a header off a corner kick in the 11th minute to give the women's team their first goal since the X Summer Olympiad. It has been a number of years, hasn't it?

However, the team wasn't done. Instead of falling back trying to protect their lead, they went after the game. Musukebba Bajo scored on a volley in the 17th minute, and the Banijans doubled their lead, taking the game to 2-0. And in the 38th minute, the Banijan women would score again. Yari Conateh, their attacking midfielder, was dribbling towards the net, when she took a hard foul from a Joshenian defender, Benjamin Lemann, slid in towards her and tackled her just inside the 18. He drew himself a yellow card, and, of course, the Lionesses drew a penalty. Who stepped up to take it? None other than Northern Moravica striker Fayven Biri. She stepped up calmly and buried the penalty, and all of a sudden, the game was 3-0.

A stunning turn of events. Joshenia, who had won their previous game 2-1 over Darmen, was now getting it handed to them by a team that had lost their previous game, 3-0. A team that lost 3-0 was taking it directly to an opponent. The crowd was emphatic, the fans were boisterous. In the second half, there was more of the same from the Lionesses, moving forward with the ball and going towards goal. Bajo added a second goal, heading in a cross in the 49th minute to make it 4-0, while Dibba, the squad's captain, scored on a free kick from 27 yards out, a screamer, to take a 5-0 lead in the 62nd minute.

At that moment, the game was over, for all intents and purposes. Joshenia, to their credit, retained their spirit- scoring twice to help their goal difference, going into the third game. But the final score was 5 goals to the Banijans, and only 2 to the Joshenians. And that leaves them with a wild looking group on matchday 3. Each team having 1 win and one loss, with only tiebreakers separating anybody in the group with one game to play? This is the definition of excitement. All sorts of scenarios remain in this group, with three women's teams and the newcomer men from Joshenia.

The Banijans, of course, will play the ladies of Darmen, while Abanhfleft will take on Joshenia. What will happen? Well, the Banijans and Darmen are both coming off of wins, even if Darmen had a high-scoring thriller with Abanhfleft- 5-4 was the final score of the late game in Group C. What Banija needs to focus on, of course, is themselves. They need to focus on being one of the top four ranked teams in this tournament- either winning their group, or being the highest ranked second place team. That will give them an opportunity to play in the top quartet of Classification Semifinals, with an opportunity to go to the final in Baker Park's maiden tournament.

What do they need to do, then? Well, they certainly need to win. If they draw, there is no hope they will win this group. If they draw, they will not only stay behind Darmen, but either Joshenia or Abanhfleft is guaranteed to be ahead of them. A loss, of course, and they could be consigned to the bowels of fourth place. But that's how much is at stake when everything's deadlocked with one game to go. So many possibilities still remain, which will make these games good ones to watch.

A victory against Darmen is paramount. But which Banijan team will show up- the one that got ran off the field in Coolville by the Fleftic ladies, or the one that ran up the score right here in Alton, against Joshenia? It's hard to tell. We'll probably get something of an in between- inconsistency, of course, is to be expected, considering how few opportunities these ladies have to line up against each other. The score matters, but not a ton- what matters is winning. You can't help what goes on in the other game- you've gotta root for Joshenia, but scoreboard watching is never a good idea. They need to focus on getting the best possible result from their own game.

However, if Abanhfleft and Banija both win, them winning their group seems.. Improbable. Then, of course, it will be down to being the top ranked second place team. That would be tough. There's a tight, three way race between Freeport Isles, Baker Park, and Cassidaigua for their group's top three places. Who knows how that group will turn out- however, it is quite possible that the group's runner-up will finish with seven points, if both Cassidaigua and Baker Park win. If that happens, then the Banijans can kiss that place goodbye- they will be playing for fifth place.

However, if not, the Banijans have a good chance. They will have to measure goal difference against likely Freeport Isles, which will be tough, though the Banijans currently lead in the goals scored category. In Group B, there is the Equestrian States- longtime Banijan sporting rivals, especially on the men's side. Aaron Aiza, the BSL superstar for Herzegovina City FC, is one of the team's key players and vice captains,a nd they are in heavy contention for that second place spot after a tough, close loss to South Toronto. Their goal difference is currently the same as Banija's, so it's a wonder on who would get through.

So many things are out of their control. The Abanhfleft result, the other group's results- this is why it's so exciting, right? But it's all about winning. Unless the women win, none of what we've said in the last couple of paragraphs matter. They will need a plan to win, and it will certainly be centered on Bajo. She is the team's best offensive player. They will have to involve her, keep her moving on and off the ball, and do what they can to take down Darmen. We'll predict a tight game, but a 1-0 victory for the Lionnesses- which means the rest of us will be watching results elsewhere, to see if Banija can break into the top quartet of teams and have a chance to win this tournament.

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

Final Group Match to settle accounts

by Darrell Anderson, Soccer Editor
The Shirley Exponent

Ezriquay--As the Baker Park Open Cup has progressed through the first several days, there has been a general feeling among spectators & the media alike that the level of competition has exceeded most people's expectations; only 2 matches have been decided more than 2 goals, only 2 of the competitors have not registered a point & the crowds have been large and enthusiastic at all the venues.

When the Commonwealth Women's Team face off against the team from the Free Republics here at the Queen Victoria Stadium, there will a lot on the line in terms of how the next stage of the tournament will play out. The three group winners and the best placed 2nd placed side will advance to the semi-finals to determine the teams who will advance to Keller Field for the final. With all the sides in Group C level with a win and loss apiece, delving into the scenarios would take up far more column inches than can be spared here.

Reflecting back on the last match against Cassadaigua at the Newport City Stadium--a magnificent draw reminiscent of the two nation's previous match in the DiBradini Cup 42, which we covered--the atmosphere was electric as if were an actual World Cup qualifying match; with the NSC Fleet all in port, the Naval Officers School in the middle of summer training and the beautiful evening in Lewis Center drawing a capacity crowd of 25,000, including approximately 7,000 supporting the visitors, from the start the match had energy and intensity.

The Dagan men showed their mettle as the 1st half progressed and took a 2-1 lead into the dressing room at the break, both sides clapped off to a thunderous ovation that was much like that given to both of the anthems prior to kickoff.

At the end, the result was a fair measure for both sides; there was none of the chippiness that came into play in the prior matchup & the final whistle brought friendly handshakes and smiles from both sides. The traveling supporters showed a tremendous outpouring of emotion for their men, who rightly felt like they earned a victory, as their come from behind goal avoided a BP win.

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

Cutoff for MD 3

In the Commonwealth, we want to make sure you understand an important concept
https://youtu.be/GFTgkibl7DU

Oh, and the musical accompaniment of the National Anthem, "Hear Our Voices, Commonwealth"
https://youtu.be/WazEHopvJEs

Group A (scored by S Toronto)

Cassidaigua 6–3 Freeport Isles
Federation of Free Republics 0–1 Baker Park

                Pld W D L   GF GA GD Pts 
1 Cassidaigua    3  2 1 0   11  7 +4  7
2 Baker Park     3  2 1 0    5  3 +2  7
3 Freeport Isles 3  1 0 2    5  8 −3  3
4 Free Republics 3  0 0 3    2  5 −3  0

Group B

S Toronto 2–1 Swibia
Maryloupe 0–2 Equestrian States

                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 S Toronto              3   3  0  0    9   5  +4    9
2 Equestrian States      3   2  0  1    6   4  +2    6
3 Swibia                 3   1  0  2    3   4  −1    3
4 Maryloupe              3   0  0  3    2   7  −5    0

Group C

Abanhfleft 0–3 Joshenia
Banija 3–2 Darmen

                       Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Banija                 3   2  0  1    8   7  +1    6
2 Joshenia               3   2  0  1    7   6  +1    6
3 Darmen                 3   1  0  2    8   9  −1    3
4 Abanhfleft             3   1  0  2    7   8  −1    3

Classification Semi Finals
(note: in an unannounced change--due to the issue not crossing the committee's mind--actual seeding positions were reversed in 2 instances to avoid group stage rematches. The groupings themselves did not change)

Freeport Isles vs Maryloupe at President's Park, Shirley
Abanhflelt vs Free Republics at Salisbury Stadium
Equestrian States vs Darmen at Carrollton, Coolville
Joshenia vs Swibia at Newport City Stadium
S Toronto vs Baker Park at Sportsmen's Park, Belle Haven
Cassidaigua vs Banija at Queen Victoria Stadium, Ezriquay

to be scored Saturday Aug 18

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

Preview: BP Open Cup semifinals

by Oliver Stanley
The Post Soccer Correspondent

When the idea for hosting the tournament that has become the Baker Park Open Cup was first talked about at FAC headquarters in Charter Twp, the expectations of what might come into play were pretty low.

A chance for Pam Scott to get her full Women's National Team back together for a few friendly matches was really the basic aim; a week or so to get fans in the country ramped up for the next qualifying tournament for the World Cup, and give a few venues that didn't host matches in the last WCQ cycle a chance make a case for inclusion this time were secondary considerations.

It speaks volumes about the work that the FAC have done, and the goodwill that has been earned by the various sides that have competed across various multiverse tournaments that this first time competition has fulfilled every goal and exceeded the most pessimistic predictions.

Nations with whom the BP National Side have had previous encounters with were eager to send teams: the Federation of the Free Republics and the Kingdom of Banija--the co-hosts of the next World Cup--both spoke up early; opponents from the last WCQ cycle, South Toronto and Darmen, also were eager to participate; our friends from Abanhfleft, where the Under 18's were victorious, and the Equestrian States said they would be happy to come to the Commonwealth, along with teams from Cassidaigua and Maryloupe; and relative newcomers Joshenia, Swibia and the Freeport Isles rounded out the national federations who chose to send teams.

So far, the matches themselves, and the crowds in attendance have not disappointed. It is clear that soccer fans in Baker Park will come to support entertaining sides, regardless of where they hail from. There have been many new friendships made during the last 13 days; a random venture into a local watering hole near any of the venues either pre or post-match would confirm this, as supporters from opposing sides and our own residents mingled peacefully and happily.

With that said, the BP Open Cup has been an unqualified success, and we've not even gotten to final day; many are hopeful that the FAC can find a slot in the multiverse soccer calendar to make this an event held on a regular basis.

With that, let's look at the matchups:

Freeport Isles vs Maryloupe (at Shirley): The Islanders were a late replacement and as such sent just a squad of their fringe international hopefuls; a MD2 win over the Free Republics got the attention of many, on the the heels of their one goal defeat to the BP team. As we approach the match here, the main team is preparing for the quarterfinals of the BoF so there is obviously talent to spare in the young nation. Maryloupe were unfortunate to have gotten an unlucky draw, in the same group as South Toronto and Equestrian States. They will be looking to save face and not end up playing for the wooden spoon

Abanhfleft vs Free Republics (at Salisbury): The Fleftics sent their ladies and beat Banija's all female side on MD1, and looked competitive against Darmen, losing only by a goal. But they are seeking more consistency from the team, as they dropped from 1st to 4th on the final matchday. Which side will show up at the Hilltop? Whichever it is they will be facing the tournament's most unique team. The Free Republics sent a squad of their most famous players from their long and glorious past, but the team have seemed a step slow against their group opponents.

Equestrian States vs Darmen (at Coolville): two sides who deserved better, the format probably played more of a factor in why they are fighting for a chance to finish 5th rather than for the big trophy. The Ponies have an embarrassment of riches in their talent pool, and it is no accident that they were scheduled into two large venues for their matches, as their reputation precedes them by playing a style of soccer (or hoofball as it's known there) popular in the Commonwealth. Darmen's FA should look at this women's side as a work in progress, as only their opening day loss against the new boys from Joshenia was a surprise.

Joshenia vs Swibia (at Newport): these two nations are just getting their sea legs in multiverse soccer, so it's appropriate that they are playing at the home of the Navy. They would've been exactly the type of nations the FAC would've expected to express a desire to play in a tourney like this, and they should both be proud that they have acquitted themselves well among an all-star nation lineup.

Cassidaigua vs Banija (at Ezriquay): the most interesting match in this round, having the potential to possibly be the best game in the whole of the BP Open Cup; the Dagans have shown that their talent pool is every bit as deep as EQS, as their men have come up with the best offense in the group stage, while the Banijan women are making a big splash at home, where they have few opportunities to shine. It's well known that neutral Ezrans love underdogs at The Vic, but which of these sides fits the bill better?

South Toronto vs Baker Park (at Sportsmen's Park): The Torontonians have been the class of the competition; they dropped no points in Group B and had the same goal difference as Cassadaigua. The team here probably knows they aren't on a revenge mission for the senior team in the last WCQ (where BP took both fixture by a single goal over the 4th ranked team in the KPB), but are looking to make a name for themselves to get into the discussion for this cycle. The hosts have been a solid if unspectacular side; Annabeth Westmoreland carried over her performance from the DBC and will be hard to leave off the mixed sex National Team Player Pool and Brianne Whitestone has gotten a lot of attention, and it is a legitimate question to ask if she will be plying her trade in Ravenswood come the start of the NSWL season, or somewhere else?

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

There would be very many sad-sads if your Cutoff was as extreme as this, but just remember--we can't just call it a draw tonight.
https://youtu.be/s35rVw1zskA

S Toronto 3–1 Baker Park

Cassidaigua 2–1 Banija

Equestrian States 1–1 Darmen (4–3 pen.)

Abanhfleft 2–3 Free Republics

Joshenia 3–2 Swibia

Freeport Islands 2–1 Maryloupe

Finals

Championship: South Toronto vs Cassidaigua at Keller Field, Belle Haven

Third Place: Banija vs Baker Park at Rogers Stadium, Endborough

Fifth Place: Equestrian States vs Joshenia at State Fairgrounds Stadium, Springfield

Seventh Place: Darmen vs Swibia at President's Park, Shirley

Ninth Place: Freeport Isles vs Free Republics at Collins Park, Oceana

Eleventh Place: Abanhfleft vs Maryloupe at Prince William Stadium, Newmarket.

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

© Sporting Times Daily 2019
Capital ready for BPOC Final between tourneys best sides
by Mindy Cartwright, National Soccer Writer

In the end, the Baker Park Open Cup will get the Championship Final it deserves, as South Toronto and Cassidaigua will meet under the lights at Keller Field tomorrow in front of an expected sellout crowd.

When asked about the overall performances throughout the competition, Allison LeFleur, the Deputy Executive Director of the FAC & Commissioner of the BPOC couldn't hide her happiness at how things have worked out--in spite of the fact the BP Ladies won't be playing for the big prize--and praised all of the people who put the work in to pull off the Commonwealth's first ever Multiverse Tournament.
"I'm so happy that we have been able to put on a series of matches, to have welcomed so many fans from abroad, to have seen the response from our local supporters who have attended matches at all of the venues, and the competitive level of the games themselves among some of the best soccer playing nations in the multiverse, as well as the thousand's of man-hours that volunteers have put in, have pushed this tournament to a level none of us expected. We at the FAC are thrilled to welcome the sides from South Toronto and Cassidaigua who have earned the right to play for this trophy. There's a saying that goes 'you're often judged by the company you keep', and we are humbled by the fact that we are able to keep company with such great nations as these."

Head of State Michael Gregson and his wife Darlene will meet the players from both sides as well as the officials--Mr Takei from Kita-Hinode and the Hinodejin assistant referees--prior to the match and will be presenting the trophy to the victors.

The Torontonian supporters will be given the East Terrace and much of the South Stand, while the Dagan faithful will be placed in the North Terrace and the West Stand.

The East Terrace is at the top of the picture and the North Terrace is at the left side--

___________________________________________________________________________________
BP, Banija to fight for third
by Fiona Devlin, Staff Soccer Writer

No one is sure whether there will be a solid dividing line between the feel-good camaraderie and hard competitive edge when the Commonwealth Women face off against the women's National Team from Banija here at Rogers Stadium for the Consolation final. There has been a lot of discussion about the fact that this appearance is a rare occasion for Banijan women's soccer.

"We understand that there is a strict belief in Banija about women playing sports, and especially playing in coed situations", said BP Captain Faith Enizkomibo. "We're excited that they have been given a chance to come here, but we won't let that affect how we approach the match. We won't be able to claim the trophy of our own tourney, but we can end on a positive and look forward for a further opportunity to show our team and allow other nations to give their otherwise underrepresented players a chance to shine."

The crowd at Rogers might seem a bit partisan; there has been a significant influx of immigrants from Banija over the past few years, and a significant community of ex-pats has grown in & around the greater Mansfield area. The Banijans played Darmen in their final Group C match at Rogers and the turnout of support for the Lionesses' exceeded what organizers anticipated.

"We're thrilled to able to come and play in front of our fans in Endborough", Manager Pam Scott related after the final workout. "A good crowd with a strong visiting supporters section is one of the best atmospheres you could hope for as a player in an international friendly. We wish the Banijan ladies best of luck and look forward to playing them."

[Joshenia]

JOSHENIAN PRESS CONFERENCE

Hello everyone,
First of all for those who do not know me, I am Leon Natcht and yes the assistant manager is my wife. When the Joshenian Football Federation had first suggested to me the oportunity of testing out our national team against better opponents outside our region, I was weary that we would be embarrased. I was expecting a competition were we would lose by 7 goals.My mind was at peace after seeing that Joshenia was going to be playing against women. I was warned though by several members of my staff that these women were really good footballers with much more experience than our boys. I must be honest I was threatened at the possibility of losing to women. In our first game we played Darmen. I must say that although Darmen lost they played exceptionally well against us and would like to thank them for being a worthy opponent. The game against Banija I must admit the team had partied a bit too hard, however the Lionesses of Banija deserved the win. The lionesses played their hearts out and were more technically sound. It would be great though if in the near future we can meet again so that we can show them that the Joshenian eagles are a great team.
This competition has gone smoothly and the hospitality provided by the hosts has been amazing. I would like to thank the host for holding such a great tournament. We love your country, the food and culture has captured our hearts and I believe more Joshenians will be traveling here for their summer holidays. Lastly i would like to commend the boys for being disciplined and making the Fatherland proud. We have shown the world that their is an eagle out their covered in the colours of royalty purple and gold ready to fly high into the sky of exerllency and show its beauty to all.Thank you all, that is all for now.

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

And we're here at last! The final day of the BPOC.
My thanks to all who participated, and don't worry about how much you RP'd or not, I didn't take it personally as I know this was probably not the best time to have this going on. Hopefully I'll be able to find a good slot where we can do this again.

Special thanks to:
Qasden for making the logo, of his own volition and to my great surprise.
Cassidaigua for being the original sounding board for this idea and giving me some good insight into how competitions like this have fared in the past.
South Toronto for scoring the Group A matches.
Banija for friendship and good advice.
Equestrian States for coming through with a late replacement team.

I wouldn't say this was something I felt I had to do, but I felt I needed to get some real time experience in scorinating and hosting something so that somewhere down the road I can offer my help to co-host other events.

And so this is the cutoff, and good luck to everyone.
Over? It's not over until we say it is....
https://youtu.be/xzsOOLIsZ-U


Championship: South Toronto 2–4 Cassidaigua

Third Place: Baker Park 3–5 Banija

Fifth Place: Equestrian States 0–1 Joshenia

Seventh Place: Swibia 4–2 Darmen

Ninth Place: Freeport Islands 0–2 Free Republics

Eleventh Place: Abanhfleft 2–0 Maryloupe

Congratulations to Cassidaigua's Men for the winning the Inaugural Baker Park Open Cup!

[Cassadaigua]

Big Step Forward For Dagan Men,
by Chelsea Dufresne, Concord Heights Times

Let this sink in for a second: a group of Cassadagan men just won a major international title. How major was it? Well, we’re not talking the World Cup, Cup of Harmony, or something liek the World Baseball Classic, but the Baker Park Open Cup wasn’t a little tournament either. Delegations from the likes of Free Republics, Abanhfleft, Banija, and Equestrian States joined the host nation, Baker Park in this tournament. Up and coming nations like a South Toronto were there as well, and while our men did not face anyone’s “A” team in this, they were up against some pretty formidable foes.

The only blemish on the record was a 3-3 draw with the hosts in matchday 2. Otherwise, the men wearing pink were unstoppable, topping Banija 2-1 in the semifinals before getting a 4-2 win over South Toronto in Belle Haven. They showed perseverance in all of these matches, but you had to like the general balanced attack our team displayed. They were not reliant on just one or two players, it was a total team effort. Zack Pierce, one of the few players on the team with World Cup experience knows it is about so much more, “This is not just a soccer championship, it is a victory for men across Cassadaigua. We have made strides in the last few years to bring gender equality to our rosters. Queen Cassie II and CASE (Cassadagan Association for Soccer Excellence) have moved us forward, and today we got to show what we could do on a decent stage.” Pierce was asked his opinion on if he thinks other nations will respect Cassadagan men more, and he replied, “I can’t speak for others, but I am sure that it will not hurt.”

Preston I. Grant, the President of MEN (Male Equality Now) was also thrilled, as one can expected, “This is a monumental victory for us. It showed young Cassadagan boys that they can too, can accomplish great things.” The win was not overlooked by female members of the World Cup team, with several commenting. Star forward Hannah Ranucci posted, “It even brings a tear to my eyes. They have been through so much, and I know what it means to them. This is such a big win for them. If I have a young boy one day I can point to this and let him know that just because he was a male born in Cassadaigua, it does not mean he can’t do things that men in other countries are able to do.”

It remains to be seen what kind of impact this title will have on the World Cup 81 roster. It is expected that the World Cup roster will be finalized and announced on Sunday.