TheCourier.cos -- Cosumar Domestic Sports Newswire

[Cosumar]

CFL Season XVI (1013) - Playoffs

It's that time again. Of the 36 teams that began the season with bright aspiration, fewer than half remain with their goal of winning the Dragon Bowl intact. Making the postseason is a great accomplishment, but only one team will end the season completely satisfied. It's time CFL Playoffs time! Single-elimination. No mercy. No second-chances.

First Round

SILVER CONFERENCE

1Dawchire Eagles               7 10  0  7  24
4Jädde Brutes                  0  6  0  6  12

2Mallox Iron Tigers            7  6  0  7  20
3Centus Owls                   6 10 10  9  35

The Dawchire Eagles and Jädde Brutes are similar teams. Opposite running backs Nic Perrantes and Avery Broddick are both RCU legends and NSCF champions. Both have big Vloo no. 1 receivers in Corns Na'Domha and Cozmar Na'Bami - who also happen to be great friends and NSCF competitors. The difference? Perrantes is eight years younger than Broddick and the Eagles have more thrust in the trenches. They win, to the surprise of pretty much no one who watched their 13-3 regular season. With star pass rush duo Toby Tancredi & Maximillian Hall at the tail-end of their primes, this is an ensemble at the peak of its power (on defense, at least). Probably Dawchire's best window at a championship before the window starts closing. The up-tempo offense of the Centus Owls awaits them in the divisional round. They should match up better than Mallox did. The Iron Tigers are a powerful defense, but they were too slow to keep up with Enok Rye's calculated execution of his QB-friendly system. On the other side of the ball, Owls' star linebacker Martell Chievous will have his hands full tracking Eagles back Perrantes.

1Hagenheim Vagabonds           3  3  3 14  23
4Morponte Marauders            0  7  0 10  17

2Olask Dolphins                3  3  0  7 3  16
3Versiaville Vikings           0  0 10  3 0  13

Over in the Silver West match-ups, two outlaw-named teams (the Vagabonds and Marauders) exploded for a high-scoring 4th quarter duel after an ugly first three. The defending champions won it on Kenji Toyashimo's 10-yard QB scramble to the corner of the endzone with 0:19 remaining after Morponte had just settled for a field goal to put them up by 1. Top seeds advance. Same held true on Olask Isle as the Dolphins welcomed the nearby Versiaville Vikings across the strait for gritty, physical battle in the rain and mud that looked like it could go either way until Olask kicked a go-ahead field goal with two minutes left and then Ofi Mondragon recovered a crucial Neptune Trevorrow fumble on Versiaville's ensuing drive.

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BLUE CONFERENCE

1Samotath Scourge              7  3  3  3  16
4Ramusok Stars                 3 14  7  3  27

2Hvalsey Lions                 0 10  0  0  10
3Emerald Cove Conquistadors    7  7 10  3  27


1Samaj Spartans                7  6  6 10  29
4Helfin Mighty Men            10  0  7  3  20

2OAS Kingsmen                  0  7 14  7  28
3Pelethas Thunder              0  0  7  3  10

Scourge down! The surprise contenders of the season made plenty of headlines in the regular season, but couldn't get it up for a postseason run unfortunately, held out of the endzone after their opening drive by the less talented but vastly more playoff-experienced Stars. Ramusok have the oldest roster in the league. Do long-serving icons like linebacker Braxton Arispe (35) and receiver Duke Leonard (33) - not to mention grandpa-aged punter Keevu Schavinski - have a Dragon Bowl run in their old legs? If we get this version of Garron Holland, the capital's polarizing QB, then perhaps... although Brandon Reigner's Emerald Cove juggernaut awaits next. They put the Lions back in their place today! So nevermind. Oh yeah, and Ramusok's "other team" won too! Their first playoff win in the CFL era! Ugly ducklings of the capital, no more? All of a sudden, OAS Kingsmen look like real threats after pulling off the largest victory of the first round - over a marquee Blue Conference playoff team in the Pelethas Thunder, no less. They'll play Samaj next, who are somehow still dark horses despite an excellent regular season, a #1 seed, and a vintage Aman Na'Vibe gunslinging performance to punch out the Finnegan Trophy winners. That will be a good one.

Conference Semifinals

SILVER CONFERENCE

Dawchire Eagles               3  0  0  3   6
Centus Owls                  14  7  0 17  38

Hagenheim Vagabonds           0  3 10  0  13
Olask Dolphins                6  3  7  7  23

Wowowow! The Centus Owls have caught fire! Pelinor Lione repeatedly gashed the Eagles' over-aggressive defensive front with delayed handoffs, and when they adjusted for the run, Enok Rye simply kept the ball and found elusive slot receiver Tjiro Nalta in space. Rinse, wash, repeat. More impressively, the Owls were able to ground the larger predatory birds on defense too. Alfredo Cazorla sacked Griffin Lintonsmith three times and corner Lark Bowman singlehandedly SHUT DOWN Corns Na'Domha on the outside, which allowed the interior defense to really key in on Perrantes and bottle him up. 38 to fucking 6 over the Silver Conference's overall top seed. Shocking game. And the surprising weekend was only getting started! Later that night, Esben Oesterwind masterfully exposed the gaps in the Vagabonds' secondary and sent the defending champions home.

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BLUE CONFERENCE

Ramusok Stars                 0  6  6  3  15
Emerald Cove Conquistadors   17  3  0  3  23

Samaj Spartans               10  7 10  3  30
OAS Kingsmen                  0  0  0  6   6

Emerald Cove race out to a 20-0 lead against a terribly outmatched Ramusok Stars team and go into cruise control from there, even going as far as to give rest to some starters in the 2nd and 3rd quarters. No luck for the other Ramusoki franchise either -- the Kingsmen just didn't know what to do with themselves on this stage and the tough, experienced Spartans ran spears through them. OAS quarterback Taron Thalman threw four interceptions in the biggest game of his career. Hopefully it doesn't damage his newfound confidence from this season too much. He can be a joy to watch throw the football when he's feeling his groove.

Conference Championship Games

SILVER CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

Centus Owls                   6  7  0  3  16
Olask Dolphins                3  0  3  7  13

Centus were not a popular pick for the Dragon Bowl, but they take care of business against the Dolphins. So much of winning a Dragon Bowl just boils down to getting hot at the right time and riding the hot hand. They certainly have that. The Silver Conference Championship win wasn't as flashy as their previous two playoff wins, but it demonstrated a maturity and poise under pressure that we weren't sure they had. When the Dolphins made their second half push and erased the Owls' 13-3 lead, they didn't panic, but simply stayed true to their hurry-up offense / Cover 3 defense systems and continued executing them patiently. After three consecutive punts in the 4th, the Owls finally drove 35 yards down the field and kicked a game-winning field goal, then forced a Turnover-on-Downs to ice it.

BLUE CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

Emerald Cove Conquistadors    3 10  0  3  16
Samaj Spartans                6  0  3 10  19

The Spartans were great in the 4th quarter and showed a lot of spirit to come back, but this will go down as a Conquistadors choke. They were the overwhelming favorites to win the Dragon Bowl now with the Vagabonds and Eagles out (Spartans underrated yet again - they should've been up there with those three from the start) and led for most of the game, but just couldn't get anything going when it counted. Reigner went silent in the second half and the Spartans stepped in to fill the gap. Aman Na'Vibe was clutch in the 4th quarter as the Spartans mounted a ten-point comeback and that one-handed Devin Ferris touchdown grab to take the lead will live long in the memories of Samaj sports fans. The Spartans are going to their first Dragon Bowl! Will it join their Finnegan Trophy from a couple years ago on the mantle?

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DRAGON BOWL XVI

The 16th edition of gridiron's biggest game will feature one franchise that has been consistently good for many years... but have never quite been able to take that final step into the Dragon Bowl spotlight. The Spartans. And another franchise that was abysmal for much of the CFL era to date but has started to emerge as a legitimate team to be reckoned with in the last few seasons. Now they're both here! We will crown a brand new CFL champion tonight.

Will the Owls' distinctive hurry-up offense and conservative defense prove a winning recipe or will the more traditional Spartans, anchored by the league's best middle-linebacker and some savvy veterans on offense, tell the east coast upstarts to wait their turn?

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Some nerves after kickoff as these two Dragon Bowl debutants tried to adjust to playing in front of a packed Leviathan Arena, camera flashes going off constantly and Cosumarite celebrities everywhere. After trading a few long field goals over the first quarter-and-a-half, both teams finally found some offensive rhythm before half time. The Spartans, in green-and-white, went 90 yards with 7:33 left with a nice array of Na'Vibe slants to Devin Ferris and Darrelius Diggs pounding up the middle behind monstrous center Tyson Bailey. Then, the Owls found their wings and went 65 yards to cut the Spartan's lead to 13-10, a big chunk of it coming on a spectacular 41-yard catch-and-run by Beyus Edelweiss.

The third quarter ended up being the difference, however. Whereas the Owls looked shaken by stage fright again after a controversial halftime performance by popstar Kierin Okkelfjord that included a full-nude striptease, the Spartans kept building upon their momentum from the end of the first half. Thorin Cherufin was magisterial on the defensive side of the ball, stuffing the stat box with 15 tackles, 2 sacks, an interception and a forced fumble. Much of that was in the third quarter. His interception set up a field goal to make it 16-10, and then Aman Na'Vibe put together arguably the best touchdown drive of his career - using his legs AND his arm to devastating effect - to escalate the Spartans' lead to 23-10 with 3:23 remaining in the third.

With the Owls' up-tempo offense bogged down and drained of the confidence that fueled them through the playoffs, and the Spartans content to drain the clock with Diggs, the fourth quarter was short on action. 23-10 would be the final. By the time the clock mercifully hit double zeroes at last, half of the largely pro-Centus crowd in Kaldukosic had already left Dragon Bowl XI early. A bit of anticlimactic atmosphere for Na'Vibe and the Spartans' long-awaited triumph, but they won't care. They did it, bolstering the legacy of this core immeasurably. They finish the season 16-4, the best record in franchise history.

Centus Owls             3  7  0  0  10
Samaj Spartans          6  7 10  0  23

The SAMAJ SPARTANS are the Dragon Bowl XVI Champions! They are now 1-0 in Dragon Bowls, while the Owls disappointingly fall to 0-1. It is the second CFL silverware for the Spartans though, as they won the Finnegan Trophy in 1011.The Dragon Bowl MVP Vote was one of the closest ever, with quarterback Aman Na'Vibe and linebacker Thorin Cherufin going down to the wire. Cherufin was ultimately named the official MVP of the game, but he gracefully gave the award to Na'Vibe to keep for the 32-year-old's many years of service as the unsung leader of Samaj's team. The Samaj Spartans' victory interrupts Silver Conference's run of three straight Dragon Bowls, drawing Blue Conference back level at 8-8 in the all-time series.




Post-Season Awards

Season MVP: Brandon Reigner (QB, Emerald Cove Conquistadors)
Dragon Bowl MVP: Thorin Cherufin (LB, Samaj Spartans)
Offensive Player of the Year: Thos Na'Basi (WR, Hagenheim Vagabonds)
Defensive Player of the Year: Thorin Cherufin (LB, Samaj Spartans)
Foreign Player of the Year: Tyson Bailey (C, Samaj Spartans - QUE)
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Tjiro Nalta (WR, Centus Owls)
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Mohammad Mussic (FS, Samotath Scourge)

[Cosumar]

Welcome, dear reader, to the 26th Härlighet Ligan season! 25 have gone into the books since the Fiefdom Soccer Federation introduced the CosumarLigan initiative, revitalizing domestic soccer here. Here's how it organized our pyramid: 256 clubs across five tiers, all competing in the annual King’s Cup. The top three tiers, the Härlighet Ligan, Sekundar Ligan and Tredje Ligan (collectively "CosumarLigan") are the smallest and most prestigious. Below that three-pronged entity, two parallel conferences comprise a messy fourth tier. Then, five large regional competitions fall under the umbrella of the fifth tier. That's where some semi-pro teams start to bleed in. But at least four fully professional tiers is more than previous generations could have dreamed of.

The overhaul also included new FSF incentives to spend on youth development and international transfers. In years since, quality has visibly improved. Of course, the Härlighet Ligan gradually became one of the premier competitions anywhere. But also in Sekundar Ligan and Tredje Ligan! The former could arguably be a UICA Top 30 league on its own now - four different teams have made the SBCC Final this decade. Another reason CosumarLigan was such a landmark shift is that it finally integrated clubs from Cosumar's extraterrestrial colonies into the pyramid. Last season, for the first time, one such offworld club competed at the elite HL level. Now that the glass ceiling has been broken, expect to see more space travel in the Cosumar’s highest tier in the future.

Now, without further ado, let's get to what you're here for... A preview of where each of those top-flight teams stand ahead of Season 26!

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Map of Current Clubs:

Overview of Past Winners:
I: OAS Royal FC
II: OAS Royal FC (2)
III: Mallox
IV: Mallox (2)
V: OAS Royal FC (3)
VI: Mallox (3)
VII: OAS Royal FC (4)
VIII: Ramusok United
IX: Klyde
X: Real Azuris
XI: Real Azuris (2)
XII: Cassandra City
XIII: Mallox (4)
XIV: Ramusok United (2)
XV: Cassandra City (2)
XVI: Real Azuris (3)
XVII: Real Azuris (4)
XVIII: Real Azuris (5)
XIX: Cassandra City (3)
XX: Real Azuris (6)
XXI: Cassandra City (4)
XXII: Real Azuris (7)
XXIII: Real Azuris (8)
XXIV: Mallox (5)
XXV: Eastweald
XXVI: _______ ?

8 - Real Azuris
5 - Mallox
4 - OAS Royal FC
4 - Cassandra City
2 - Ramusok United
1 - Klyde
1 - Eastweald

EASTWEALD
Yambridge, Gellano Fief

Nickname: Wood Elves, or just Elves
Founded: 704
Ground: Old Weldenskirgen (43,209)
Manager: Theresa Riether (60)

Transfers In: Somuele der Pros (New Belfast Warriors $10m)
Transfers Out: Dexter Tricklebank (Falourr $10m), Jefferson (Cap Nordique $6.9m), Peter Morrison (retired), Aeris Cossadel (retired)

First XI (4-3-3): Hernandez (34) - Myren (28), Bambic (28), Scott (27), V. Ilya (23) - Mordini (30 C), der Pros (28), Haalogalsson (23) - Velasquez (28), Amokachi (31), Fanaiyan (23)

Key Reserves: Matalon (GK/23), Thatch (LB/28), Soderlund (CB/34), Sorenson (RB/33), De Marisco (CM/36), Rao (LM/16), Del Angel (AM/25), Kortuufa (ST/32), Kovačević (ST/19)
Tactical Style: Tiki-Taka (short, intricate passes)

Gellano Fief occupies most of The Weald, a low-lying tract of land with a tumultuous history nestled between the wild Northern Peninsula, the Dronningens mountain range to the south and the Great Central Desert to the west. The fief is practically divided down the middle: the dry industrial western half… and the gorgeously wooded eastern half. Obviously, Eastweald represent this eastern half of The Weald. Specifically, their name refers to Eastweald Wood, a thick deciduous forest that was thought to have magical properties (like spirits and sprites) by ancient Cosumarites. Hence the team's nickname "Wood Elves". Nobody actually lives in Eastweald Wood (development strictly prohibited), but the nearby city of Yambridge sits on the northern edge. The club's historic stadium is in the desirable southern outskirts, a stone's throw from the beginning of Eastweald Wood. Its green expanse can be seen from higher seats. It's a very quaint, picturesque area, Yambridge long a magnet for artists and intellectuals. That all makes the West Wealders over in Mallox hate Eastweald even more and fuels the fiery Weald Classic. Eastweald have also historically battled for turf locally with Yambridge City, who claim to represent the city's actual urban heart, but they've fallen down the pyramid recently. From the oldest active stadium to stirring club song "Ode to the Elves", Eastweald have a storied tradition in Cosumarite soccer dating back centuries. The club won buckets of trophies in days of antiquity and retain much of that prestige today... especially after finally winning that first HL title last season. They wear green dominant at home and yellow (right) on the road, always with matching color shorts and inverse color socks. They occasionally wear a monochromatic dark-gold throwback kit.

Team Preview: Theresa Riether set a high standard in her first season at Old Weldenskirgen, helping Eastweald rebound to finish 3rd after a down year, but it was in her second season that the club took the long-awaited final step: winning the Härlighet Ligan. With her distinguished air, Riether recalibrated the goalscoring touch of the one and only Penumbra Amokachi while also bringing in another Nepharim star in-the-making in Ishtar Fanaiyan and restocking an aging squad with promising young depth. That 7-goal romp over Olask Islanders on Matchday 32 concluded a title campaign that saw much of that depth come to the fore. Eastweald were the only club for which every outfield player on the roster played 500 minutes and scored at least one goal. Or, in the case of Jagoda Kovačević, seven. The tantalizing prospect with elite athleticism marked herself as the heir-apparent to Amokachi in her opportunities as the spearhead of Eastweald’s possession-based 4-3-3. While the ringleader of Riether’s youth infusion (midfielder Dexter Tricklebank) is off to Eura after an outstanding season, the midfield has irrefutably gotten better with the transfer of SPL standout Somuele der Pros. The man has the skill to dictate the tempo in Eastweald’s pass-happy system and the drive to carry the physical and mental load left behind by Tricklebank and club legend Jo de Marisco, who probably ages out of a regular starting role this season. A quick look at der Pros’ Wikipedia page will tell you all you need to know about his unorthodox career path. He has proven people wrong and surpassed expectations at every turn, rising against all odds to become a key player for Farfadillis. He and Mina Mordini will ooze class in the middle. They should be able to pass circles (and triangles) around any opponent, especially with Sven Haalogalsson conveniently appearing to tidy things up and pacy wingers Fanaiyan and Eva Velasquez so adept at finding pockets of space. Even Amokachi will regularly get involved with their purposeful build-up, dropping deep. Carving forward, so too will elegant center back Eric Bambic – the best passing defender in the league right now. And then Valence Ilya looks ready to prove himself as the long-term answer at right back and longtime Vanquisher Esteban Hernandez is as steady as they come in goal. Altogether, this is a stellar squad with few, if any, weak spots to poke. With most of the familiar faces back to defend the club’s first championship, bolstered by a world-class addition in der Pros, the club and its fans will expect to continue adding to the trophy cabinet. That said, the depth – while still great – has been thinned a little with useful veterans like Peter Morrison retiring just as AOCL is thrown into the mix. Eastweald should probably still win, but they probably won’t run away with it as they did last season.
Last Season: Champions (20-8-6). Prediction: Champions.

Randy Lewis (ST, 915-926)
Endyl Paru (CB, 982-999)
Abdiel Assad (CB, 989-1001)
Mika Ostaltsov (LM, 999-1002)
Belarmin Worsaw (ST, 1002-1004)
Golden Rand (GK, 999-1005)
Henrique Ventura (MGR, 976-1006)

King's Cup 999
King's Cup 1005
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1013

CASSANDRA CITY
Cassandra, Cresscalus Fief

Nickname: Reds
Founded: 882
Ground: The Amphitheatre (60,000)
Manager: Arturo Mancini (59)

Transfers In: Lojes de Sájajo (Viztourzys Kolektyvinis), Ace Newman (Avenida Leal), Wil Jabelon (promoted)

Transfers Out: Justinian Grimswald (Tout-Puissant Outremont free), Misty (Éclaireurs free), Bennett Perkins (retired)

First XI (4-3-3): Metz (33) - Va'Afaja (21), Gargo (32), Frostmarris (30), Vivas (21) - Serafino (28 C), Rowan (27), Konsé (23) - Niro (32), Zeale-Riddick (24), de Sájajo (20)

Key Reserves: Iziduko (GK/31), Colbert (CB/34), Boag (RB/33), Schneiderlin (CM/31), Kobro (LRM/23), Goulding (FW/32), Dyer Vry (FW/24), Newman (ST/38)
Tactical Style: High-press, High-octane

Cassandra revolves around showbiz and celebrity. Cosumar's film, fashion and theatre industries are centered here (star-studded Staropoli Street), as is the only legal gambling district in the Fiefdom (Cassandra Megacasino a major landmark). There are also decadent attractions of even less reputable nature (the most brothels and strip clubs per capita in Cosumar). A pilgrimage to Cassandra is a rite of passage for entertainers and hedonistic young adults alike. Located on the barren northern steppe that stretches between the peninsular dragonlands to the east and the deep Duversian forests out west, Cassandra has little to speak of in terms of landscape. Yet it became an important city due to its location on the Pristine River, which connected the two sides of Cosumar in the early days, and remains by far Cosumar's largest inland city. Cassandra City are its largest club, embodying Cassandra's glamorous image. Their brightly-lit, amenity-stuffed stadium, The Amphitheatre, is only a block from Staropoli Street! Cassandra Cosmopolitan, however, are emerging as a legitimate competitor following successive promotions. Other local derbies include Riverside Crew, who claim support amongst the overlooked sailor and merchant neighborhoods along the river. Meanwhile, many big clubs around Cosumar also see the Reds as enemies. They've stepped on some toes. Most notably Ramusok United, stemming from their Millenium Miracle at the Blues' expense and subsequent battles. At home, Cassandra wear their customary all-red (right). Away, they wear a half-red, half-white shirt with black shorts and, distinctively, one red and one white sock (inverted from shirt).

Team Preview: The first season of the Vega Zeale-Riddick experience in Cassandra can only be considered a success. It’s almost as if Cosumar’s most glamorous city and most glamorous striker-turned-instagram influencer-turned-fashion designer were a perfect match! Yet City were no divas on the pitch, delivering tireless pressing football as a cohesive unit despite the typhoon of media attention centered around VZR. She justified her fee with a team-leading 18 goals while meshing well with the versatile Charles Dyer Vry and speedy Ki Niro in the final third. With instrumental box-to-box midfielders Bellerophon Serafino and Ursula Rowan setting the tone all over the pitch, there shouldn’t be too much difference from last season’s second-place finishers, with added boosts from Lojes de Sájajo and club legend Ace Newman in that final third. Lojes is just 20, but the tricky winger already has World Cup experience with Farfadillis. Ace Newman is nearly twice his age, but Cosumar's #5 all-time scorer has still been producing bucketloads for Avenida Leal. The once-explosive Ace has developed a lethal “old man game” as a sit-in-the-box poacher! Added to an attacking arsenal that already included Zeale-Riddick, Dyer Vry and Niro as well as HL-proven goalscorer Jason Goulding and another hungry young winger in Janet Kobro, Arturo Mancini will boast no shortage of options as he balances an honest title blitz with UICA commitments. There will be plenty of competition for the three starting spots up top each week. Aligned to a newfound defensive solidity with the CB partnership of Stephen Gargo and Diedrich Frostmarris, uber-experienced in front of superman AKA Calogero Metz, Cassandra City are again one of the main contenders. It’s hard to deny the narrative of Ace Newman, the man who brought Cassandra its first title, having one more ace up his sleeve as his storybook career winds to a close... Opponents might try to take advantage of the Reds’ youth at fullback, however, and isolate them one-on-one out wide.
Last Season: 2nd (17-10-7). Prediction: 2nd.

Luke Crisalus (ST, 965-982, 985)
Francois Renault (MF, 988-998)
Ace Newman (ST, 995-1001)
Ron Bromwyn (MGR, 985-1004)
Kyle Fleming (MF, 997-1007)
Jacob Pandan (CB, 996-1002)
Jol Tortuu (ST, 1000-1011)

Harlighet Ligan Champions 1000
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1003
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1007
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1009
King's Cup 1012

OAS ROYAL FC
Ramusok, Ramusok Fief

Nickname: Whites or Royals
Founded: 982
Ground: Crowley Memorial World Cup Stadium (105,000)
Manager: Syl Denhardt (55)

Transfers In: Roxana Coffey (Bishop $6m), Astrid Omenihu (promoted)

Transfers Out: None

First XI (4-4-2): Shalhoub (29) - Duvernay (25), Hanger (26), Fosse (29), Di Sansev (22) - Aedelbrandt (22), Drover (28 C), Marchant (23), Simmons III (29) - Marsteller (23), Cautcher (33)

Key Reserves: Ferne (LB/32), Sigurdsson (CB/35), Rocket (LW/34), Valcon (CM/21), Coffey (RW/23), Møller (ST/18), Koclanes (ST/23)
Tactical Style: Exploit wide spaces with speed

Ramusok is Cosumar's capital and second-largest city. Its rich soccer culture has seen various clubs ebb and flow over the decades, but in the CosumarLigan era there have been a definitive "Big Two": Ramusok United… and OAS Royal. OAS is a fairly young club, founded by King James II to compete in the inaugural Härlighet Ligan season in 983. He spared no expense, recruiting World Cup stars and building a stadium adjacent to his Royal Palace. The team was immediately successful, winning the first two HL titles and becoming the first Cosumarite club gain international recognition. Though it has been awhile since Royal have won anything, they remain one of Cosumar's biggest brands. They have loyal fans across the Fiefdom and region, a prime location in the historic Område av Storslagenhet (Royal District) and now a shiny new stadium - a true monument to Cosumarite soccer. The matches are status events, with the King himself and handfuls of politicians and luminaries often in attendance. Around Ramusok, they are seen as the flashier, "cooler" club, with casual and bandwagon fans everywhere. O.A.S is almost like its own city-within-a-city, however. United better represent Ramusoki outside of its elite cocoon and tend to have more passionate hardcore supporters as a result. Royal wear sleek all-white (shirt right, with white shorts & socks) whenever possible. They also have a grey/white/turquoise secondary kit that pops up occasionally. This shirt, grey socks, and white shorts with a turquoise strip like the shoulder.

Team Preview: Sur Arora produced even more memorable moments in his second season in charge, highlighted by being Eastweald’s main competitor in the title race and returning OAS to its rightful place in the Champions’ Cup after a four-season absence. Arora also took his beloved club one penalty away from a King’s Cup Final. Given the cachet of his name and all he accomplished here in two short years -- handing the reins to exciting young players (such as newly-minted Cosumar international Sen Marsteller, leftie running mate Zoë Aedelbrandt, classy Nepharim import Catheline Marchant and poised-beyond-his-age right back Thomas Di Sansev) and developing each of their games while also correcting the utter lack of defensive discipline from his debut season -- it’s no surprise that the so-called "biggest club in the best league" (Sabrefell Moths) came to swoop him away. After a lengthy search, the new man at the Royal Palace is Syl Denhardt. He’s a familiar face in the capital, best known for guiding AC Holmenkollen (that little suburban club up the road) to the Härlighet Ligan a decade ago and even to a few Globe Cups. After a spell out in the cold, Denhardt earned his way back into favor for HL jobs recently by pushing an unfancied Morponte Fief to the brink of promotion. Now, he finds himself in the biggest job of his career. The board were undoubtedly drawn to his similarity to Arora, angling for continuity. Ramusok roots. An impressive record with young players, having established lasting youth-centric philosophies at Holmenkollen and Morponte. A balanced style of play with an attack emphasizing fast play in wide spaces. (They certainly have some serious pace out wide now with Roxana Coffey added to Aedelbrandt and Corey Simmons III.) With all key players returning, from fox-in-the-box Claudia Cautcher (responsible for a fucking quarter-century of goals last season) to midfield heartbeat and World Cup champion Elsie Drover to defensive general Christopher Fosse, there’s no reason OAS Royal can’t pick up right where they left off and aim for the top of the table. Also look for Denhardt to give increased opportunities to the next wave of young impact players, like homegrown Aikin Valcon and especially Vanorian wonderkid Thor Møller. OAS fans just better hope that 1013 wasn’t a fluke defensively. A regression to 1012, when they shipped over 30 goals more, would be a deal-breaker.
Last Season: 3rd (17-9-8). Prediction: 6th.

Henry Kueler (MF)
Oscar Jain (MGR, 983-994)
Alexander Pearce (CB/LB, 983-999)
Luke Crisalus (ST, 983-984), (MGR, 997-1000)
Sur Arora (ST, 989-1000)
Jaclyn Maris (GK, 998-1006)
Nicola Pecoraro (CB, 1000-1008)
Warren Paysinger (RM, 1001-1010)
Jannick Kontiola (RB, 998-1012)
Galasgoldas Tathtauré (ST, 1007-1011)

Harlighet Ligan Champions 983
Harlighet Ligan Champions 984
Harlighet Ligan Champions 989
Harlighet Ligan Champions 993

CRAWFORD CITY FC
Crawford, Numenvernien Fief

Nickname: Elephants

Founded: 924
Ground: Orangi Stadium (61,000)
Manager: Amethyst Fegelein (53)

Transfers In: Joaquim Martell (AC Pomena $4m), Mario Modrich (Kings Park $3.5m), Guifré Mosquera (Cazadores Cathair $2m), Colin MacArthur (Regional Dev. D), Teague Arbuckle (Rocinante Prep)
Transfers Out: Vara Swan (San Marco Storm $7m), Kostas Postecoglou (retired)

First XI (4-4-2 dmnd): Weschler (24) - Babaturk (31), Arrowsword (25), Hagicostas (33), Modrich (25) - Marshall (29), Farrow (23), Klein (24), Coultan (32 C) - Alcouin (30), Stabb (32)
Key Reserves: Knych (LB/23), MacArthur (CB/22), Valfar (DM/35), Martell (LW/27), Mosquera (CM/23), Lemons (FW/20), Guilliver (CF/29)
Tactical Style: Maintain Possession, Control Midfield

Crawford is a port city, the largest on Cosumar's AO-facing southern/western coasts. It has grown in importance in this era of regional integration, with most Atlantian sea traffic coming to Cosumar through Crawford. The sunny southwestern city boasts a diverse population of over six million (including highest proportion of Vloo on the mainland) with a particular disdain for the concept of "indoors". It's easy to see why in their balmy semi-tropical climate and the inviting Lake Crawford to enjoy year-round. Even much of the colorful downtown nightlife is outdoors, with rooftop blues clubs and open dance pavilions draped in neon lights ubiquitous. CCFC's lakefront pitch also has an open, sunny ambiance that matches its city. Yet Crawford isn't one of Cosumar's traditional footballing cities. With the possible exception of Crawford Sharks SC eons ago, none of its clubs have ever been very successful, and it has a reputation for Fair Weather Fandom across all pro sports. In leaner recent years CCFC have indeed struggled to fill that behemoth stadium that Orangi Bottling Co. built when they bought the club in 995. However, all the investment is finally starting to show on the pitch now. With trendy branding and little competition in a young booming city, CCFC is primed to entrench itself as the true "big club" that western Cosumar has long lacked. CCFC's nickname is homage to the rare Numenvernien spotted elephant, indigenous to the area. Their elegant teal/crimson/gold home kit (right) is the envy of the league. Their white away kit with gold and teal accents isn't shabby either.

Team Preview: Ok, take a breath and enjoy the view, Crawfordians. Your club has made it. CCFC is firmly entrenched in the upper echelon, respected as a UICA club the world over. You’ve had three consecutive top-four finishes. You have a world-renowned coach, Amethyst Fegelein, who doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. Exhale. After over a decade of struggle to reach this point, it would be easy for the club to grow satisfied, conservative. Credit to the board for doing the exact opposite! Bold moves have been made this offseason to shake things up in hopes of producing the first HL champions west of the Attumac. A recurring theme of the last few title shortcomings has been a drop-off in quality after Fegelein’s first-choice XI, so CCFC sold right back Vara Swan over-value to some free-spending Christophereans and reinvested the funds into depth. Chiefly, a Juvencus international winger in Joaquim Martell, who can bring a different swashbuckling dimension to the Elephants’ attack when he’s on. For the price of Swan, CCFC were able to nab a younger replacement they really like in Mario Modrich, returning home after starting his career as a SPL regular, as well as Martell. Cazadores Cathair's Guifré Mosquera also joins – exactly the type of midfield technician that CCFC loves. The Audioslavian is already drawing favorable comparisons to Jennifer Farrow, the fleet-footed Eastfielder whose feathery touch immediately impressed as a teenager after arriving similarly unheralded. The likes of Farrow and Mosquera, as well as composed defensive midfielder Peter Marshall, are complimentary pieces to the true gems of Crawford’s midfield: Rusalka Klein and Kim Coultan. Klein is the complete center mid: physically imposing yet effortlessly smooth. Coultan is the talisman playmaker slightly upfield of her, always buzzing around, looking to get on the ball and put defenders on their back foot. It’s impossible to know whether the Schottic captain will pop off a shot, effortlessly dribble past you and pick out the perfect pass, or suddenly change pace and try to draw a foul in her favorite free kick spot. When they’re all working together like a well-oiled machine, this is a midfield unit that will wear down opponents and bend the game to their will. Up ahead, Kevin Stabb and Hannah Alcouin need no introduction, expertly playing off of each other, looking for soft spots in the defense. There’s concern that they aren’t quite explosive enough anymore, but they should still have the quality and finishing instincts to score plenty of goals with the likes of Klein finding their runs. Nevertheless, there’s added pressure on homegrown Arden Lemons this season to show she can be their striker of their future. Other changes this season include an intense new regimen to build fitness. CCFC were the first club to gather for preseason and have put in nearly twice as many training hours as others in the month leading up to the season. Will it all pay off? Well, once again, Crawford City FC boast one of the finest squads in Cosumar, but whether they can break through the final barrier will likely come down to whether the new signings hit and if the rest of the defense can match the standard of Hansi Weschler and Sarah Arrowsword. Meanwhile, transfer rumors continue to connect Rusalka Klein to Schottic megaclubs… clock might be ticking on this championship window.
Last Season: 4th (17-8-9). Prediction: 4th.

Jakk Winterfyll (GK, 997-999)
Dmytro Kurosawa (CF, 1002-1009)
Phillip Sherman (DM, 997-1010)
Jens Reiniger (RB, 1000-1012)

None in modern CosumarLigan era

REAL AZURIS
Azuris, South Klyde Fief

Nickname: Breakers
Founded: 962
Ground: Estadio MasseMord (42,243)
Manager: Luis Varezzi (65)

Transfers In: Olivia Haidt (promoted)
Transfers Out: Samothias Odwyk (Eastal Lunar), Tilda Tidesson (AC Holmenkollen loan), August Ozuna (retired)

First XI (4-1-2-3): E. Tidesson (20) - Biondi (29), Wolff (25), A. Tidesson (21), Chisenhall (30 C) - Clorfeine (23) - Akarenaa (28), Antúnes (23) - Benedict (29), Arrowsword (25), Br. Tidesson (22)

Key Reserves: Lindberg (LB/36), Vanzanto (CB/22), Mormentor (DM/30), Sybill (CM/33), Bi. Tidesson (AM/19), Silvén (LW/32), Bowditch (RW/33), Rwang (ST/31)
Tactical Style: Expansive, Flowing Attack

Real Azuris are popular across the southern half of Klyde Isle, the landmass east of mainland Cosumar. South Klyde Fief - and Azuris as its primary hub - is known for its liquor, spicy cuisine, laid-back days, hard-partying nights and close association with piracy during the seafaring age. More recently, Azuris has become the epicenter of the exploding Full-Immersion Virtual Gaming industry in Cosumar. Virtual tech firm MasseMord is the stadium sponsor. Azuris also has a distinctly latin flair, with lots of Spanish-stye architecture and a high population of Spanish-speakers (including a large West Sunrisian diaspora). South Klyde is very different from North Klyde Fief, which is why Real Azuris have such a fierce rivalry with Klyde FC. Those northerners claim the name of the whole isle! The audacity. Real also have local Azurian derbies with smaller clubs AFC Obscura and Silk FC. They're the youngest of the bunch, celebrating a 50th anniversary last season. Real was founded at the behest of the Baron of South Klyde Fief (hence Real) to give citizens a "legitimate" club to support that didn't have ties to piracy or organized crime in its history like AFC Obscura. Few could've foreseen the juggernaut that Azuris would eventually become in the Härlighet Ligan era. Thanks to the work of Akira Eld, Lujendra Mescalin and many more behind the scenes, they've raised the bar in Cosumar in terms of infastructure, club culture and international achievement. Their primary kit features the iconic tidal wave that has long swept over the top of the shirt. White for home, blue for away. Azuris also have a bold alternate kit: rainbow. A high-tech fabric gives off the appearance of misty rainbow light, as you'd see shimmering by a waterfall.

Team Preview: Calm waters in southern Klyde. A couple youth products venture away, another is promoted up, and a Hall of Fame induction ceremony is held for goalkeeper August Ozuna, who retires a legend. That’s the extent of the activity this summer. Besides Bryger Tidesson not leaving, if that counts. It’s business as usual for Real, so sure of their “way” that they seem as calm and confident as ever, even after two disappointing seasons. Does the club really know what it’s doing? Or is this just plain hubris on display? That’s what some fans are asking after watching all their rivals complete splashy transfers only for their own pleas for a signing or two to go unfulfilled. History would suggest the former tho. After all, before Weald sides took the last two, the “Real Azuris way” had delivered 6 of the last 8 titles. But maybe the rest of Cosumar has caught up? “Nonsense,” Luis Varezzi says. “No one is close to the level we are in terms of our academy, our technology, our training techniques and facilities.” Bragging about that stuff is great, Varezzi, but it doesn’t change the temperature of your seat. The moment Real Azuris drift astray of Champions’ Cup pursuit, you’ll be g-o-n-e, perhaps wishing you never left Samaj! In fairness, there’s a great chance that won’t happen. Despite the lack of reinforcement, Azuris have one of the best squads in the league, with quality oozing through each of its lines. Bryger Tidesson is the best player on the pitch when he wants to be – the type of transcending talent who’d thrive at any position. He turned down a $65 million move to Brinemouth over the transfer window, so he’s probably not long for the Härlighet Ligan. Look for him to put the team on his back to try and go out with a season for the history books. Bryger can count on help from his younger siblings, with THREE Tidessons expected to be in Varezzi’s First XI now that spindly Edith Tidesson is ready to step into the big shoes of August Ozuna and Alfred Tidesson is a permanent fixture alongside Vanquisher CB Kurt Wolff. You might even see four-Tide lineups at times if the mercurial Birgid Tidesson can get her act together and challenge visionary but less athletic playmaker Hidalgo Antúnes for minutes. Andrew Arrowsword is, of course, an incredibly gifted goalscorer in the middle who ties everything together. Jeremy Benedict's excellent crossing from the left helped him reach the 20-goal mark last season. The real unsung heroes in the Azurian lineup, however, are Mbdiai Akarenaa and Sandra Sybill. The Turori and Chromatika international midfielders are the glue – whichever one is starting – and are responsible for making sure the expansive attack is ticking at the right rhythm, that every inch of the pitch is being utilized and that the team’s many big personalities are in sync. Real Azuris are just fine.
Last Season: 5th (16-10-8). Prediction: 3rd.

Akira Eld (MGR, 982-1000)
Giovanni Aldinne (LM, 992-999)
Tolgus Tregajorran (CF, 1004)
Ipier Ubuntu (CF, 997-1006)
Robert Sieuwerd (GK, 997-1008)
Georgia Kite (CF, 1005-1008)
Florentin Lachance (CM, 1005-1009)
Lujendra Mescalin (MGR, 1003-1010)
Sean Fraser (LW/ST, 1002-1011)
August Ozuna (GK, 1005-1013)

Sekundar Ligan Champions 983
Harlighet Ligan Champions 998
Harlighet Ligan Champions 999
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1004
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1005
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1006
King's Cup 1006
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1008
King's Cup 1008
King's Cup 1009
UICA Champions' Cup 66 (1009)
UICA Super Cup 63 (1009)
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1010
Cygnus Cup 42 (1010)
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1011
King's Cup 1011
King’s Cup 1013
Cygnus Cup 46 (1014)

MALLOX
Mallox, Gellano Fief

Nickname: Tigers
Founded: 804
Ground: Orange Palace (46,000)
Manager: Kennedy Kopenhaver (65)

Transfers In: Jordan Emery (FC Samotath $8.5m), Keziah Broxham (Lotus Park $6m), Lone Va’Nega (Goldstaff City $5.5m+swap), Karlus Sjunitsson (IFK Aldenskoett $4.5m), Godfred Hjelmgaard (Yambridge City $1.2m)
Transfers Out: Mehmet Curwyk (Port Sebastian $9m), Jesper Lindroos (Centus Serpents $1m), Natassja Ravnajuv (Goldstaff City swap), Jol Tortuu (retired), Gustaf Söder (retired)

First XI (4-4-1-1): Va’Nega (23) - Engram (24), Bruyne (28), Danko (24), Broxham (19) - Emery (27), Sjunitsson (24), Dé (25), Siorrha'Asione (25) - Cloudchaser (34 C) - Kárpáty (24)

Key Reserves: Sindelaar (GK/35), Thompson (RB/33), Chappelle (CB/DM/21), Haines (CM/36), Vanderpool (RM/34), Masatoshi (SS/18), Hjelmsgaard (ST/18)
Tactical Style: Fast and Direct

Gellano Fief occupies most of The Weald, a low-lying tract of land with a wartorn history, nestled between the wild Northern Peninsula, the Dronningens mountain range to the south and the Great Central Desert to the west. The fief is practically divided down the middle: the gorgeous, thickly-wooded eastern half... and the dry, flat western half. Mallox is the major city in this less glamorous western half, a center of heavy industry and manufacturing, surrounded by wind farms and small, hardscrabble communities that depend on them for livelihood. The Orange Palace is at the heart of it all and is perpetually waitlisted, commanding universal support from Mallox proper as well as the outlying towns of West Weald. Mallox FC is seen as an embodiment of their blue-collar values. Even well-off Malloxites still identify with this hardworking ethos and fancy themselves the antithesis of their "arrogant silver-spoon brethren" in prosperous, intellectual Eastern Gellano cities like Centus and Yambridge. This cultural divide spills over onto the pitch when Mallox face archrivals Eastweald in the "Weald Classic". Mallox were one of Cosumar's most feared clubs in the early history of the Härlighet Ligan, trading titles with OAS Royal in the 980s and 990s. It was over 15 years into the HL era before they missed a UICA berth. The Tigers wear a diamond-textured orange home kit (right). Away, they wear black with subtle watermarks of Mallox's industrial skyline.

Team Preview: A very good summer in the transfer market, with Curwyk’s hole being filled by speed-demon winger Jordan Emery from FC Samotath, sends the Tigers right back to the front of the pack for CC contention. Kennedy Kopenhaver also employed his Galactico Manager reputation and extensive league connections to scalp Goldstaff City for touted goalkeeper Lone Va’Nega, pluck midfield metronome Karlus Sjunitsson from IFK Aldenskoett and even secure a much-needed upgrade at right back with a Galactico Junior shortlister in Keziah Broxham (tip of the hat to old friend Constantine Champali at Lotus Park). Wowza. Combined with some old deadweight clearing way, Mallox are a side that suddenly look completely re-invigorated and dangerous. Of course, it helps to have one of the best strikers in the world (twice-defending Golden Boot winner Alexander Kárpáty), arguably the best center back in the league (Trajan Bruyne) and indisputably the most unpredictable x-factor in the league (Stiin Siorrha-Asione) on your team sheet. With that spine to build the influx of new talent around and some intriguing things piecing together in the background, like the swelling promise of youth products August Chappelle and Galactico Junior 3rd place Taka Masatoshi, what’s not to like about Mallox? They’re tough to break down when they defend with all their heart in those two rigid lines of four, and they have the pace and quality going the other way to make you pay for the slightest lapse. The Tigers might be a tad overdependent on Kárpáty for their goals, but that hasn’t been a problem for the last two seasons!
Last Season: 6th (16-7-11). Prediction: 5th.

Pablo Reyes (GK, 965-978)
Kennedy Kopenhaver (CB, 970-985; MGR, 1010-)
Leland Burke (MF, 972-980)
Thomas Hair (CB, 976-980)
Baltomer Izecson (ST, 987-997)
Anders Engström (ST/LW, 993-1001, 1011)
Haruto Takahashi (LM, 999-1006)
Stuart Gildon (RM, 994-1008)
Jimmy Kelly (ST, 997-1009)

Harlighet Ligan Champions 985
Harlighet Ligan Champions 988
Harlighet Ligan Champions 992
King's Cup 1000
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1001
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1012

PELETHAS UNITED
Pelethas, Morponte Fief

Nickname: Miners
Founded: 835
Ground: The Xanadu Dome (31,000 w third level covered)
Manager: Euan Jersey (50)

Transfers In: Iain Cyn-Penzag (Zoloroni City $17m), Willem Maersk (Stoneshore United $2.75m), Talia Lincoln (Kolanola Elite Dev. Academy)
Transfers Out: Mohsin Changez (Hondo FC $7m)

First XI (4-2-2-2): Nier (29 C) - Bourillion (21), Maersk (24), Harm (32), Mallman (27) - Kåsa (29), Crowley (27) - Xandreas (28), Saltorius (25) - Cyn-Penzag (21), Alotic (29)

Key Substitutes: Brinegar (LB/35), Lingxin (CB/28), Said (CB/23), Grennan (RB/22), Greenchurch (DM/20), Montelius (CM/17), Tarrant (AM/35), Miettinen (SS/21), Ninkey (ST/32)
Tactical Style: Rugged Defending, Attack through Saltorius in the middle

Pelethas started as a mining community (named after 8000-meter Pelethas Peak, omnipresent behind the skyline) but has evolved over the centuries to become much more. Pelethas is a destination city. With the famous Jagged Mountains to the north and Cosumar's finest golden-sand beaches to the south, Pelethas is full of tourists regardless of season. The Mediterranean climate of the south coast also allows Pelethas to contribute to the economy via agriculture. The fruit/nut/vegetable farms aren't too exciting, so they're a bit removed from the actual city and touristy areas. Though mostly obsolete due to space mining, former mining communities still dot the land of north of Pelethas amongst the first mountain slopes. Pelethas United was borne out of a merge between Erehwon Sports Club, popular amongst miners since the area was settled, and much younger Pelethas Peak AFC - a manifestation of the town's rapid urbanization. One had the grassroots support and the other had the "new money". It was a mutually-beneficial marriage. A condition was that "United" stay true to Erehwon's roots as a miners' club in their imagery and community involvement. Pelethas United mostly led a mediocre existence in Sekundar and Tredje Ligan until being backed by a deep-pocketed tourism mogul and bankrolled up the pyramid in the last decade. It's still more of a gridiron town (Pelethas Thunder sell out their new shared stadium with far more regularity) but United are closing the gap. They wear a classic Silver & Gold kit (right) at home with the Jagged Mountains on the chest. On the road, they wear this regal crimson/gold kit.

Team Preview: Pelethas had a mostly positive 1013 season. Nevertheless, it fell just short of a second straight UICA berth due to Cosumar’s reduced allotment of teams, with the side finishing tied with Mallox just two goals out of the top 6. Euan Jersey largely succeeded in consolidating upon 1012’s breakthrough. The club completed the transition into The Xanadu Dome as its new home, adding 7,000 seats to their regular capacity and offering the chance to expand into the future, and Saltorius Splitt again provided excitement creating through the middle with snap crackle & pop. But the positive season just wasn’t quite positive enough. The Miners never found a winning groove as they did in 1012. Every time they strung together a couple wins, it was followed by a step back. It’s hard to pinpoint why that is. The young members of the back line experienced expected growing pains, but the brilliance of Jillian Nier usually masked them. Charlie Alotic and Mohsin Changez were among the most productive strike pairings in Cosumar, with Mercedini star Alotic in particular showing a newfound acclimation to the HL game – a killer instinct. Qad icon Ryan Xandreas (his loan renewed) and internationals Gudrun Crowley and Jens Kåsa also brought a high level of quality to the squad. Youngsters Hestia Greenchurch, an energetic midfielder, and Didrik Miettinen, an aggressively attacking super-sub, also stepped forward to provide needed depth. Jersey will try to continue building all these positive aspects while recapturing the “lightning in a bottle” feel of 1012 (when Changez couldn’t stop scoring goals) with the $17 million addition of in-form Cenian striker Iain Cyn-Penzag. Pelethas will need their record signing to hit the ground running, as they had to accept a Vanorian bid for Changez himself in order to pull it off. Cyn-Penzag has the right attributes to thrive in Pelethas’ narrow “keep it on the floor” shape: he has good feet and can set up his own shots with his first touch, turning and rifling with precision. It’s a risk though. The reigning Young Player of the Year in Mercedini is, in fact, young – eight years younger than savvy Changez. Despite his good feet, it may take him time to find his footing (...heh) at this level. But hey, maybe he finds an instant spark alongside Alotic and Saltorius and puts UICA football squarely back in Jersey’s sights. After all, with those guys around, it’s not like all the responsibility is on the 21-year-old. Trading Changez for Cyn-Penzag should be a prudent move in the long-term regardless.
Last Season: 7th (15-10-9). Prediction: 7th.

Jack Algar (MF, 995-1005)
Trygve Tyson (ST, 994-1007)
Ryan Carmichael (DM, 1003-1009)
Rose Kingsley (GK, 999-1012)

Tredje Ligan Champions 983
Tredje Ligan Champions 989

RAMUSOK UNITED
Ramusok, Ramusok Fief

Nickname: Blues
Founded: 751
Ground: Fire River Arena (80,000)
Manager: Jock Sonny (78)

Transfers In: Noma Sutton (Diamondqueen $4m), Rosalie Duvalier (promoted)
Transfers Out: Atticus Hattingh (CA Paulinthal $7m), Viablaine (Rozelle $4m), Jakk Bekk (Na’Ilee Mariners $1.5m), Robin Geirsson (retired)

First XI (4-4-2 Dmnd): Kearney (34 C) - Sutton (23), Hare (22), Carr-Ponce (27), Topić (19) - Bachelor (22), Keohane (28), Sparrow Body (24), del Toro (28) - Wedderburn (23), Stone (30)

Key Reserves: Cevelunen (GK/19), Yotirmoy (CB/26), Langerak (CB/35), Marmor-Lavie (RB/30), Duvalier (RM/16), Jago (ST/32), Lilley (ST/36)
Tactical Style: Work rate and toughness prized in hard-hitting attack

Ever since OAS Royal FC opened shop 30 years ago and became the capital's purveyors of prestige and foreign appeal, the much older United have repositioned themselves as "the everyman's club" in Ramusok. The club for the "true Ramusoki" and those outside the glamorous royal district. The real representation of Ramusok's soccer culture. Yet, even though they claim the city's most recent championship, Ramusok United have once again reverted to a slight secondary status to Royal in recent years. The club is located in a young and "hip" part of town, near Ramusok Capital University and popular nightlife spots. Their stadium, Fire River Arena, is one of the most historic in Cosumar - the Fiefdom's first jewel of such size and former home to the National Team before being overshadowed by Kaldukosic’s Leviathan Arena and then OAS Royal's new Crowley Memorial. It got its curious name from a local legend. The Sampson River, which runs into the ocean just a mile away, was a key tactical location in the battles of ancient Cosumar. When Mikael The Magnificent completed his conquest of the area, he was said to have dumped such a quantity of explosives into the river that flames danced upon the waters for two whole weeks as a show of intimidation. United's sea of blue-clad supporters do their best to be equally intimidating. Their blue shirt (pictured right) is worn with solid white shorts and blue socks. On the road, United wear this silver shirt, with solid blue shorts and silver/blue hooped socks.

Team Preview: Let the past die. Kill it, if you have to. Jock Sonny’s overhaul of one of Cosumar’s legacy clubs continues in earnest. Some of Ramusok’s best-known domestic veterans like Atticus Hattingh and Viablaine are sold on (prematurely, many would argue) to make room for the youngsters Sonny favors, like hard-nosed Euran enforcer Dustin Bachelor and Diamondqueen standout left back Noma Sutton. Based on Sonny’s praise, local products like Rosalie Duvalier and Rondok Cevelunen will be ready to follow in those footsteps sooner rather than later too. The retirement of Robin Geirsson, a Polarian deity at Ramusok United for the last fifteen years, symbolizes this process of death and rebirth that Sonny is orchestrating. Though they’ve been busy freshening up the squad, United will also rely on some familiar faces to lead them back to UICA status after rebounding back into the top half last season. At the forefront is Adrián Del Toro, who led the club a season ago with 11 assists, while midfielder Keohane is also back with the squad on a World Cup high, and defensive stalwart John Hare is perhaps Sonny’s most prized asset. Though the Blues have a slim chance at the top five, it’s a realistic one if both William Stone and Lara Wedderburn share the goalscoring load. Stone’s fine form last season (just as he was about to be labelled a $15m bust!) earned the burly striker a place in the Euran national team, but it hid the sophomore slump that young Lara had after her scintillating debut season in 1012, squandering many chances in front of goal. If both find peak form, defenses will be forced to pick their poison while trying to deal with Sonny’s physical, in-your-face playstyle. That said, this new young core might be another year away from really contending. They lack the quality depth of the top sides and could use another year growing together. Besides, United is sitting on a nice little nest egg after this summer’s yard sale and could go all-in on a big spend next window. In the meantime, all that the blue hordes at Fire River demand is evidence of progress and maximum effort.
Last Season: 8th (15-8-11). Prediction: 9th.

Derris Na'Fen (ST, 946-949)
Chester Pearce (RB, 932-938) (MGR, 974-979)
Mike Flanningan (CB, 998-1010)
Kirum Mortonsson (CB, 992-1001)
Seon Jin Kang (LB, 1001-1011)
Curtis Théberge (ST, 1004-1012)
Robin Geirsson (CM, 998-1013)

Harlighet Ligan Champions 994
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1002
King's Cup 1002
3rd Vilitan Cove Invitational (1014)

SAMAJ FC
Samaj, Culmarland Fief

Nickname: Hunters
Founded: 906
Ground: Stadion Jägare (32,000)
Manager: Johannes Lundblade (46)

Transfers In: Vesina Va’Lepeh (Na’Ilee Mariners $5m), Annlaug Larsen (Regional Dev. D)
Transfers Out: Ross Rowe (retired)

First XI (4-2-3-1): Maston (28) - Lovelock (31), Jakoljevic (26), Erakin (24), Palmqvist (25) - S. Földessy (17), Vanderlei (26) - Del Arro (29), Møller (26), Sigurjónsdóttir (27) - Va’Lepeh (25)

Key Reserves: Melmendier (LB/19), Pladsen (CB/27), Pearson (DM/30), Nathael (MF/30), Larsen (RW/22), Columbine (CAM/31), Jurevicius (CF/24)
Tactical Style: Defend Narrowly, Attack Wide with High-Volume Crosses

Samaj is a mid-sized city on Cosumar's western plains - the first city you would finally see after emerging from the Great Attumac Desert if you crossed its length from the far more densely-populated east. It's an old-fashioned, rustic city by Cosumarite standards, notable for still using lots of clay architecture and relatively low adoption of Cosumar's public transport and implanted language microchips. Samaj FC is the only CosumarLigan-level club in the city and is well-supported despite traditionally limited finances. Many soccer fans in smaller towns throughout the western plains region adopt Samaj as "their” HL club as well. Well, either Samaj or their biggest rival - Helfin Fief FC to the north. Samaj has actually spent more of the CosumarLigan era in the Sekundar Ligan. Prior to this current golden era for the club under Luis Varezzi and now Lundblade, its biggest claim to fame was simply being where Cosumar legend Sur Arora got his start as a rookie. Their home kit (pictured right) features their iconic diagonal-split shirt and burnt-orange shorts. Their away kit this year is solid of the shade of dark yellow found on the collar to the right, with burnt-orange lettering.

Team Preview: Samaj have weathered the end of an era admirably, nestling into the center of midtable following the departures of Luis Varezzi and their beloved Princess VZR. Though Samaj’s spell as a UICA automatic is probably history for now, this is still a damn fine team that can go toe-to-toe with anyone. A UICA return isn’t out of the question, especially if highly-rated Mariners striker Vesina Va’Lepeh can be an upgrade up top. Which really shouldn’t be that hard since Johannes Lundblade spent last season switching between all-brawn-no-brains Adnan Jurevicius and a creaking Ross Rowe as his #9. The Hunters still did ok because of the quality of that attacking midfield trio (Rachel Del Arro and Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir were actually the team’s top scorers with 11) and the extremely underrated Rasunda Vanderlei doing much of the heavy lifting behind them. Va’Lepeh should find the set-up tailor-made for her to bury goals. The defense looks solid too. Twin towers Tomi Jakoljevic and Carl Erakin will be a strong pairing for years to come, Kerwin Maston has some of the best save reflexes in the league (even if his distribution leaves something to be desired), while fullbacks Ophelia Lovelock and Astrid Palmqvist are defensively responsible, picking the right moments to drive forward on the overlap and whip in crosses. Effervescent prospect Szalyk Földessy is also one to keep eye on, expected to bring some pace and strength to the midfield this year. Combined with the discipline and abundant set-piece goals typical of Lundblade sides, you can expect another top-half finish on the western plains. They just don’t quite have the firepower to make the jump from respectable challenger to a real threat.
Last Season: 9th (15-8-11). Prediction: 8th.

Sur Arora (ST, 988)
Thomas Teverridge (CAM, 988-999)
Allen Huthson (CF, 998-1004)
Elaine Kayton (LM, 1001-1004)
Isadora Xenophon (CF, 1003-1008)
Terje "Valfar" Bakken Sognasen (DM, 1006-1012)

None in modern CosumarLigan era

Stay tuned for the for Part 2 of this preview, coming soon.

[Cosumar]

OLASK ISLANDERS
Olask, Olask Fief

Nickname: Islanders, Laskies
Founded: 846
Ground: Kamu Road (24,000)
Manager: Collette Sade (51)

Transfers In: Jade Irwin (Cornellians $7m), Filiberto Stanfield (Deprí Lanar $1.5m), Inez Tamburelli (Olask A&M)
Transfers Out: Will Couturiaux (Newrook City $3.5m), Veljko Na’Tokeho (Saint Derby FC free),

First XI (4-4-1-1): Fielding (22) - Parchot (23), Scougall (31 C), DeKlan (26), Baker (25) - Methüzema (22), Canales (25), Stanfield (23), Way (30) - Irwin (31) - Scafidis (31)

Key Reserves: Rennold (LB/32), Bourass (CB/21), Brown (CM/29), Tamburelli (RM/22), Poxay (AM/29), Tzykakoos (ST/19)
Tactical Style: Work hard and defend as a unit, quickly get the ball to Scafidis

The Islanders are the biggest club in Olask Fief, which encompasses a cluster of islands off the northwesternern coast of Cosumar, but that isn't saying much. Olask is the most sparsely-populated fief, with more sheep than humans and a rocky, inhospitable terrain. It then follows, naturally, that the Islanders are one of the Härlighet Ligan's most humble clubs in terms of financial resources and facilities, having long struggled to cement themselves in the top-flight between stays in Sekundar Ligan. Sometimes, they even struggle with filling that 'ole rustbucket stadium… and the potholes in its well-trodden pitch. Yet, things have been on the up lately amidst their longest-ever HL stay, including their first foreign superstar in Chrysanthe Scafidis. The self-deprecating fanbase embraces the club's unglamorous, lower-league image and pride Kamu Road on being one of the league's most difficult away trips. The Islanders draw support from the whole of Olask Island, the largest island of the Olask Fief archipelago. Outside of the titular city of Olask, much of it is rural. They have major derbies with clubs representing two nearby Olask Fief islands, Bergtatt Isle Athletic and Pardock Island, as well as mainland northwestern neighbors Versiaville and fellow island-based side Na'Ilee Mariners. They wear iconic pewter blues (right) at home and a red x-design away.

Team Preview: I don’t know when it happened, but it has become almost… fashionable to play on Olask Isle now. Odin have mercy, the end times may be upon us. But yes, the Islanders have been a good enough team recently to actually start attracting some real talent in spite of their drab locale. Collette Sade saw enough here to make Olask her next project after being cut loose by Real Azuris two seasons ago, and now Cornellians legend Jade Irwin is joining up, becoming just the second marquee international star in club history after Nepharim countrywoman Chrysanthe Scafidis. Shows that some footballers really do just care about good football over parties, celebrity and endorsements - because there is very little of that on Olask Isle. Well, “good football” might be going a bit too far still, but this is probably as close to that superlative as this club will ever get. With Irwin’s ability to hit the killer pass and keen eye for goal, ruthless finisher Scafidis finally has some real quality to support her tireless endeavors up top. Sade may toy with playing heavily through Irwin in the middle, a potential shift from the previous strategies of just waiting for Scafidis to clean up any scraps that may fall her way from the Islanders’ press or hopeful balls lumped up the pitch. In that arena, they will probably miss Will Couturiaux, whose long balls were a sight to behold. It’s unfortunate they couldn’t keep the silky center mid for one more year to combine with Irwin, but his success with Newrook City shows the move was due. The wingers, Drawkland international Ilana Way – increasingly a goal threat herself - and pacy former Cosumar U21 Kamaal Ibn Methüzema, will miss him too, as his penchant for rolling balls down the flanks often set them up in good spots. But remember what we said about Olask being able to attract talent now? Sade has brought in Filiberto Stanfield, a young standout of the Chromatik second division, to help replace Couturiaux. He has many of the same ball-before-the-assist traits and could quickly thrive. He’ll be complimented by a more traditional midfield battler and water-carrier in Larissa Canales and a rugged, old-school back line. They aren’t pretty (aside from maybe darting fullback Tegan Parchot, in her first season as a starter), but they’re hard to break. Young goalkeeper Trent Fielding is also a warrior and one to keep your eye on for the future. The Olask Islanders could sneak into the top half if Irwin is a hit and they don’t get over-ambitious and try to stray too far from their core philosophy of winning through hard work, discipline and grit. However, Irwin and Scafidis are both 31 and the club could find themselves in a tough spot if their Nepharim stars miss significant time or show signs of already slowing down.
Last Season: 10th (11-12-11). Prediction: 11th.

Sergio Vilar (ST, 994-997)
Joseph Outerridge (CB, 988-1001)
Joseph Van Duren (CB, 997-1011)

None in modern era

IFK ALDENSKOETT
Aldenskoett, Duversia Fief

Nickname: Eagles
Founded: 890
Ground: The Eagles' Nest (19,000)
Manager: Uriah Teach (65)

Transfers In: Declan Smith (Hulbury Town $8m), Imanol Uranga (KT Itzalovalle $2m), Pralix Glasspool (Hollin $0.5m), Eve Davenport (promoted)
Transfers Out: Karlus Sjunitsson (Mallox $4.25m), Olaf Womack (retired), Edwin Mullins (retired)

First XI (5-3-2): Merchant (35) - Friedmann (29), Duguid (35 C), Kulverbach (26), Bassi (28), Glidewing (24) - Abel (24), Uranga (24), Mace (23) - Davidson (24), Smith (20)

Key Reserves: Glasspool (CB/33), Thaler (CB/21), Sumac (CM/29), Davenport (LB/16), Statkis (ST/31), Cloaker (ST/32)
Tactical Style: Bunker and lull opponent into false sense of security, then quick-strike counter

The largest and most successful branch of the Idrottsföreningen Kamraterna sportclub society that has locations across northern Cosumar and is more dominant in hockey. IFK Aldenskoett takes pride in being the central club from which the others are organized and representing the organization's three core tenets: loyalty, honor and warrior's hearts. They see these virtues as being their secret competitive advantage in competing with bigger wealthier clubs, fitting their scrappy playstyle. They've certainly claimed some scalps over the years, though they've spent more of their CosumarLigan-era existence in Sekundar Ligan and are currently the definition of yo-yoers. Aldenskoett itself isn't a particularly big or historically noteworthy city but is popular to visit due to its close proximity to Pristinia (the vast expanse of gorgeous forest and nature that stretches across Duversia and Versia Fiefs) and not being as weird or isolated as sister Pristinia city Hagenheim. The city is as "green" as they come, essentially growing out of the forest and a leader in sustainable building. Aldenskoett is also very much a "hipster" city, with coffee/marijuana shops and obscure music scenes ubiquitous. IFK's silver home kit is pictured right. Their away kit sports a lime-green & white look with a more prominent eagle talon. They may also occasionally wear this blue alternate kit.

Team Preview: Off-the-pitch problems surrounding the greater IFK organization have come to light over the offseason and grown to a level that is sure to affect the players at some point, with some still owed wages from last season and others publicly trading pointed words with the front office. Even without the distractions, a repeat of last season’s 11th place finish was rather unlikely. The loss of captain midfielder Karlus Sjunitsson, so long the fulcrum of their entire style of play, is sure to be significant. And after a slow season in the goals department, Aldenskoett’s hopes are now pinned on new Ethanian striker Declan Smith, only 20 years old and untried in the weird and wonderful world of Atlantian – let alone Cosumarite – soccer. What’s more, Olaf Womack is finally retiring! WHAT WILL THEY DO WITHOUT OLAF WOMACK??? The strong spine of a Brandon Duguid-led defense and ruthlessly efficient #6 Leonard Abel, however, should again make the Eagles difficult to actually defeat as long as declining goalkeeper Bram Merchant doesn’t spot their opponents easy goals. Uriah Teach’s low block of five is a tough knot to untangle, especially on that tight pitch at The Eagles’ Nest. The idea is that you get so preoccupied with breaking it down that you leave yourself vulnerable to speedy wingbacks Gaëlle Glidewing and Kristian Friedmann going the other way into space once you finally make a mistake a cough up possession. Can Arnold Mace and/or Imanol Uranga execute this blend of trickery and transition play that Sjunitsson had perfected? And if they do, will young Smith have the killer instinct to convert those precious few golden chances that IFK generate?
Last Season: 11th (12-8-14). Prediction: 18th, Relgation.

Glenn Terry (ST, 981-994)
Väinö Va'Lucic (MGR, 992-1010)
Falchion Hess-Olesen (ST, 1002-1012)

Tredje Ligan Champions 993

FC SAMOTATH
Samotath, Parougan Fief

Nickname: Black Hawks
Founded: 845
Ground: Alesund Stadion (60,000)
Manager: Šimon Holguín (51)

Transfers In: Dimitra Exarchopolous (Oldem Mechanical $4m), Mako Silanii (Maal Daemons $3m), Alan Hernández (Zakhoro Aces $0.7m), Simon Ardley (Ritter Town free), Fannar Traustason (Parougan Fief University), Aylan Skipwith (promoted)
Transfers Out: Jordan Emery (Mallox $8.5m), Lwan Dias Pinto (Satoshima Angel Kids free), Ferenc Ionasz Molnár (released), Diandra Ballard (retired), Sheldon Serra (retired), Karoliina Lahtinen (retired), Linden Lucassen (retired), Geddy Shrowder (retired)

First XI (1-3-2-4): Ardley (32) - Panossian (24) - Fietsam (29), Sibuc (27 C), Hernández (27) - Kolitsidakis (31), Kirby (26) - Exarchopolous (24), Silvestri (24), Nyström (21), Sommerfield (29)

Key Reserves: Mukhanova (GK/20), Skipwith (SW/18), Carolla (DF/21), Traustason (CM/22), Vorobyov (RW/34), Guss (FW/27), Bermond (ST/25), Silanii (ST/20)
Tactical Style: Advanced Backline, Attack at All Costs!

Isolated from the rest of the Cosumarite eastern seaboard by the first majestic cliffs and alien karst formations of the wild northern peninsula, Samotath developed a different culture for the sport. Namely, people here view football firstly as performance art. Putting on a show (AKA scoring goals) is the first measure of success for the old-school fans. The matchday atmosphere evolved around this emphasis on entertainment, with pyrotechnics, a costumed mascot and even a live hawk that flies around and does tricks. It's all bigger and better than ever before in the state-of-the-art Alesund Stadion. Samotath is a large city and FC Samo is the only game in town, so the stadium is usually packed. The city is a curiosity beyond sport as well, with a unique architectural style dominated by sharp edges and black glass. It's also the only population center where you can occasionally see elusive Cosumarite Azure Dragons in the distant sky. As for fashion, FC Samotath is all about the Red & Black Attack. Split-color kit with that awesome hawk at home (pictured) and a black away shirt with some neat arrow designs.

Team Preview: Over the last few years, Samotath has served as a port of call for aging Cosumarite veterans returning home from overseas. Some, like Sheldon Serra, were worth it, but most were bad contracts. Now, finally, Samo seems to be turning a new page… but it has left their squad depleted by retirements. The permanently-midtable side has now invested in a combination of youth and experience in Oldem Mechanical winger Dimitra Exarchopolous to combine with a bevy of other forward options including Juvencus star Santo Silvestri, homegrown phenom Zak Nyström, graying wing wizard Miroslav Vorobyov, aggressively-shooting Ricardo Sommerfield, aggressively-shooting Interrobang Bermond and new Mriin prospect Mako Silanii, also aggressively-shooting. FC Samotath is an aggressively-shooting team. That attack looks good on paper, with many options for infamous tinkerer Šimon Holguín to play with. Even with the loss of Jordan Emery. The problem in recent seasons and, well, every Samotath season has been at the back. …And again the Red & Black look shaky in that department. Dependable veterans Serra and Ballard are gone, which makes them even more vulnerable back there than usual. Spyridon Kolitsidakis does everything he can in midfield, but if opponents get past him and McCall Kirby into that final third… good luck. One does not envy the job of sweeper Ayk Panossian, whom new goalkeeper Simon Ardley needs to make sure he immediately takes out to breakfast and becomes best friends with.
Last Season: 12th (12-7-15). Prediction: 14th.

Vareza Na'Noni (RB/DM, 991-997)
Addam Andsman-Savage (ST, 986-999)
Elias Hermesniemi (CB, 999-1006)
Blue Skies (LM, 999-1006)
Jean-Pierre Mons (ST, 1000-1006)
Nazeau Roga (ST, 1004-1007)
Jubal Va'Mono (LB, 1001-1008)
Sid Dawson (MGR, 1000-1008)
Phoebe Etton (GK, 1002-1011)

King's Cup 1001
King's Cup 1010

GOLDSTAFF CITY

Goldstaff, Numenvernien Fief

Nickname: Guardians
Founded: 918
Ground: Bostitch Lane (23,500)
Manager: Diego Bandos (39)

Transfers In: Liam Toivonen (Real Qad City $1.5m), Marija Jelic (Otkins Numenvernia $0.7m), Mutsumi Otohime (Sakurahana University free), Natassja Ravnajuv (Mallox swap), Nolda Va’Naathra (Tjelberg Forening free), Ikona Na’Konate (promoted)
Transfers Out: Lone Va’Nega (Mallox $5.5m+swap), Eli Al-Cazar (Club Stein-los $2.5m), Giulia Navarette (Snowden River free), Frazan Va’Goshal (retired)

Starting XI (5-3-2): Ravnajuv (22) - Xiaopeng (30), Toivonen (22), Sühnhold (29), Na’Akeh (24), Tibrewal (17) - Farrier (33), Saulnesis (22), Wheeler (21) - Zigfield (33), Bannion (28)

Key Reserves: Va’Naathra (LB/23), McCloud (CB/35), Na’Konate (CB/19), Otohime (DM/21), Blazek (CM/25), Tirnen (CM/30), Jelic (ST/19)
Tactical Style: Lots o' Long Balls

Goldstaff is a mid-sized city in southwestern Cosumar, about an hour inland from Crawford along the Everlong River - halfway between Crawford and Zakhoro. It is humid and semitropical - the northern edge of Everlong Rainforest is just on the other side of the river. It's a cleaner, wealthier and more aesthetically sterile city than its neighbors, a center for Cosumarite banking and home to some notable company headquarters. Goldstaff is known for its entrepreneurial spirit - a great city to do business. There were historically two major clubs here: Goldstaff City on the posher north side of the city and fifth-tier Goldstaff Athletic on the marginally more colorful south side, but the rivalry is diminished at present by the huge competitive gap between the two. City have historically been a yo-yo club between Sekundar and Tredje Ligan, but finally managed to solidify in Sekundar Ligan in this decade. They then got an unexpected promotion three years ago and have made the most of it. G-City's home hoops are shown to the right, worn with solid black shorts and black-and-gold hooped socks. This sleek away shirt is worn with solid white shorts and solid gold socks. Here's the full set together with the rust-colored keeper shirt.

Team Preview: Star goalkeeper Lone Va’Nega is a major loss, and with bigger clubs sniffing around versatile Cosumar U21 international Skaldir Tibrewal and Brenecia’s Corby Wheeler, it is difficult to predict how Goldstaff City will fare both this season and projecting into the future. The signings this summer have been shrewd, particularly landing a center back of international standard in Liam Toivonen and a quality young fullback who was playing in Buyan before further Top Division troubles (Nolda Va’Naathra) each for relative peanuts, but the Guardians may find the sledding tougher in their fourth Härlighet Ligan season - particularly if journeywoman striker Astor Zigfield is unable to replicate her unexpectedly stellar goalscoring form of last season and Aelfwynn Bannion continues blowing hot-and-cold. Consistency remains an issue for the whole squad (look no further than Arunas Saulnesis, who always seems to play either hero or goat), and certain elements of the midfield are also looking a little suspect. They’ll probably be fine though. Probably. New manager Diego Bandos, while inexperienced, will command the respect of the Goldstaff dressing room with his work ethic, thoughtfulness and understanding of players’ mentality, as a recent ex-player himself. That’ll cover up some of the very real blemishes in this team and keep them away from the drop.
Last Season: 13th (9-11-14). Prediction: 16th, Relegation Playoff.

Gire Na'Chike (ST, 988-100)
Arwin Blaze (ST, 995-1001)
Ingolf Hegg (MGR, 991-1003)
Esa Mäenpää (L/RB, 1003-1009)
Lind Fontaine (CB, 1009-1011)

Tredje Ligan Champions 992

HELFIN FIEF
Dvinko, Helfin Fief

Nickname: Protons
Founded: 911
Ground: Scandrick's Stadium (28,000)
Manager: Josie MacLean (57)

Transfers In: Dédena Esé (Union South Bay $3.5m), Semyon Yucob (Tjelberg Forening free), Niesha Haig (GFA Natl Academy)
Transfers Out: Duviel de Naam (South Laithland $1.5m)

Starting XI (4-4-2): Edelgrau (34) - Cartensen (34), Salverda (22), Brynjolfsson (23), Borchgardt (24) - Larkspur (32), Guerricaechevarria (33), Katholos (26), Yucob (28) - Riise (21), Borges (26)

Key Reserves: Venator (GK/28), Haig (LB/23), Cree (DM/32), Esé (LW/26), Tarkanian (RW/33), Nobela (AM/23), Kvikernres (ST/21)
Tactical Style: Balanced, Conservative

Helfin Fief is the most important club in, you guessed it, Helfin Fief. It's located in Dvinko, the capital and only urban city. Helfin Fief is most commonly known for containing the bulk of the great Attumac Desert, so large swaths of it are uninhabited. But Dvinko, in the northwestern corner of the fief, far from the seas of sand dunes, is actually a rather pleasant place. Too many trees to still be the Western Plains, but not yet the deep forests of Duversia Fief to the north. Culturally, Dvinko is more tied to Western Plains cities like Samaj though, with an independence of spirit leftover from the days when nomadic communities freely roamed the vast expanses on horseback. That similarity and proximity make Culmarland Fief sides Samaj FC and Nomad Brotherhood their most significant rivals. Especially the latter, since both Nomads and Helfin Fief have mostly been Sekundar Ligan staples over the last three decades. Within Helfin, small derbies exist with Tredje Ligan's Dvinko Black Heart and fifth-tier Attumac Wanderers. The Protons (a terrible nickname that unfortunately stuck because inaugural supporters' president Marcio Saturn was a notable chemist) have had their yellow shirt and black sash for nearly a hundred years, and it remains their iconic go-to. They also have a black secondary kit with some nice plaid patterning, as well as a grey/black/yellow alternate look.

Team Preview: The Protons really made a splash by brining back Semyon Yucob from his stint in Buyan, the two-footed wide creator still fondly remembered over here from his excellent season or two with Crawford City FC before being sold. If he can pick up where he left off with CCFC or even Tjelberg Forening (he’s been the Buyanese club’s best player of the last few seasons), he could be an immediate difference-maker. Not only for the goals and assists he will provide, but for the space his presence will create for exciting strike duo Adrien Borges and Aron Riise. Last season, Helfin Fief did very well to stay up easily following promotion, but their play could admittedly be a little one-dimensional… rigid… predictable at times. Never straying from a traditional 4-4-2, routine crosses and through balls between the lines from veteran midfield quarterback Robbie Guerricaechevarria were the extent of their ideas. Now, Yucob introduces some unpredictability, some attacking verve to their playbook. Canalave native Borges and reigning U21 Player of the Year, Riise, are both natural goalscorers and don’t require that much help to fashion a few good chances per game. For once in Helfin Fief’s history, scoring goals should come easy and the bigger concerns are actually in the back, where they’re historically solid as brick. Does Hugo Cartensen still have legs at left back? Can young Thoralf Brynjolfsson be the destroyer CB that Duviel de Naam was alongside magisterial Vanorian Jourdi Salverda? Will in-demand right back Björn-Axel Borchgardt have his head in the game after having transfer requests denied? A good start for Josie MacLean’s players will be important, with the pressure for the club to succeed seriously growing in the wake of their first successful HL campaign.
Last Season: 14th (7-14-13). Prediction: 12th.

Peder Hardwick (MF, 996-1003)
Kenneth Dodge (CM, 1001-1005)
Nicklas Henberg (ST, 1001-1009)
Neil Bravo (CM, 996-1000, 1009-1012)

None in modern CosumarLigan era

KLYDE
Klyde City, North Klyde Fief

Nickname: Doves
Founded: 649
Ground: The Klyde Sportsplex (88,000)
Manager: Blinne Va'Tuaras (44)

Transfers In: Sallie Wheeler (Na’Ilee Mariners $1.8m), Mylon Doyle (promoted)
Transfers Out: Celty O’Mercury (Busukuma Athletic $3.1m), Dan Quesadillas (retired)

Starting XI (3-4-3): Pressinger (35) - Montgomery (22), Roniger (27), Wheeler (26) - Abbasi-Fevison (23), Svenskah (28), Fierro (24), Kvalderkorr (22) - Trevelyan (33 C), Riordan (24), Gandhi (28)

Key Reserves: Tuppurainen (CB/35), Beckers (R-CB/31), Broon (DM/22), Cornthatch (CM/33), Doyle (SS/17), Turner (ST/17)
Tactical Style: Dynamic, Athletic Attack… but vulnerable on the break

Klyde are a massive club in terms of history, facilities, finances, fan passion, etc. They actually manage to sell out their giant multi-purpose stadium multiple times per season! The only problem is that, lately, they've been a "big club" basically everywhere BUT on the pitch. The Doves suffered a shocking first relegation in 1007 - just a year after finishing 4th and within a decade of being crowned league champions. They've since added a couple Sekundar Ligan trophies to their cabinet and now seem to be back to stay, but Klydians are frustrated at how long it is taking to return to their former UICA status. The club is trying to stay true to its history by maintaining an open, attractive style of play… but that doesn't necessarily translate well to the midtable slugfest. One impatient faction of supporters broke off a few years ago and started a new club to do things "better" - Klyde City - and is now trying to rise through the divisions as a challenger. Other local derbies include smaller sides representing specific Klyde neighborhoods such as Glasbon and Gwerin. Sekundar Ligan's Klyde Heritage FC - across the fief in Jädde - is also a heated opponent when the two meet. The biggest fixtures each year though, circled on every calendar, are Klyde FC's faceoffs with Real Azuris. As the dominant clubs from North Klyde Fief and South Klyde Fief, respectively, the Klyde Derby becomes a battle for all of Klyde's Isle. Klyde (the city) is one of Cosumar's oldest, dating back over 900 years - not far from where the First 5800 landed. Its port serves a critical function for sea travel between Cosumar's two main landmasses because it's where the strait is narrowest. Much of its local economy is still derived from the ocean - seafood is ubiquitous and Klyde Marina a grand time. The city is now a sophisticated metropolitan hub of 4.5 million (fourth-largest in Cosumar), but retains strong roots to the Irish and Welsh heritage of its founders. Outsiders often still think of clovers and celtic pubs when Klyde is mentioned. Klydians have a particular propensity for tea of all varieties when they aren't chugging cider and ale. At home, their Doves wear an all-purple kit with turquoise accents (pictured right). Away, the colors are inverted and turquoise becomes the dominant color. You may occasionally see a spring-green third kit.

Team Preview: The signing of Sekundar Ligan standout defender Sallie Wheeler (finally, they invested real money into the back line!) coupled with the fine form of Griffin Riordan at the World Cup has seen a breath of fresh air sweep across North Klyde. Plagued with injuries, bad luck, growing pains and chemistry issues last season (Riordan and transfer window headliner Ozaria Gandhi mixed like water and oil at first), Blinne Va’Tuaras’ boys and girls are set to produce a much-improved performance this campaign. That second title does look beyond them because there are simply too many better teams out there, but a first UICA qualification in eight years isn’t impossible if everything clicks. That would entail Lind Pressinger being Super Lind Pressinger for one more year, the young midfield trio (Micke Kvalderkorr, Remington Abbasi-Fevison and Abdo Villalpando Fierro) really standing up to be counted instead of disappearing against good teams, and Va’Tuaras finding a way to get the best out of his crowded striker corps. Top half may be a more realistic goal, but you never know in this league. Klyde FC can play beautiful football when they want to, but need to be less flaky and discover some inner fire and steel. The x-factor might just be Cathal Turner, the prized 17-year-old striker already being called the best talent the Klyde academy has ever produced. Could he be ready to push a “name” like Gandhi for minutes and bring the best out of this whole group? That said, if the Doves disappoint again, it’ll probably because of the defense. Riordan will score at least 20 goals, but if Wheeler doesn’t take and/or homegrown Layla Montgomery isn’t ready for starter’s responsibilities, the world champion striker may not be able to chuck water overboard fast enough. But let’s not continue with the sinking ship metaphor. Klyde fans have experienced that already! With the talent on tap here, this should be a club on the ascendancy again.
Last Season: 15th (7-11-16). Prediction: 10th.

Tae Woo Miyori (RB, 983-998)
Blinne Va'Tuaras (GK, 983-998; MGR, 1008-)
Fraz'm'nar Gor (CAM, 997-1000)
Jorginho (MGR, 991-1005)
Benjamin Clucke (DM, 998-1005)
Anna Bowman (ST, 1003-1008)

Härlighet Ligan Champions 997
King's Cup 1003
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1008
Sekundar Ligan Chamoions 1010

ZAKHORO ACES
Zakhoro, Ankortroth Fief

Nickname: Aces
Founded: 888
Ground: Zapt Park (29,400)
Manager: Tekeh Na'Vatajin (40)

Transfers In: Irsa Croxteth (Crisisbless $4m), Ensa Camara (Istria City FC $1.5m), Neptune Jödegaard (promoted)
Transfers Out: Alan Hernández (FC Samotath $0.7m), Selena Aliena (Ragaman free)

First XI (3-3-1-3): Sinistar (29) - Camara (23), Noff (23), Hobbs (28) - Winterseer (22), Fiefwalker (30), Croxteth (26) - Özturk (25) - Scripps (19), Samarqand (30), Tarmé (24)

Key Reserves: Quaglia (LB/33), Jödegaard (CM/17), Guerin (LW/24), St. John (RM/28), Temuge (CAM/30), Dicer (ST/21)
Tactical Style: Create triangles when attacking, swarm ball and immediately dispossess in defense

Zakhoro is a spunky mid-sized city in the heart of the tropical Everlong Rainforest region of southwestern Cosumar, about two hours inland from Crawford and one from Goldstaff along the Everlong River. In no other major city in Cosumar is such exotic wildlife readily spotted - from colorful tropical birds lining rooftops to terrifying insects. Zakhoro also has the largest ferile population of Cocodragons in AO. The clumsy reptilian pests have become a civic and club symbol - hinted at on the Aces' crest. The Aces do a great job with community engagement in the city and are beloved for their irreverent, sarcastic brand personality. Just like the cocodragon! It comes through at the lively Zapt Park (named after sponsor energy drink Zapt), where they have a tradition of playing funny (and often profane) songs and sound effects for various in-game situations. And a peculiar fondness for 'The Wave'. Academics theorize that the lightheartedness and wit for which the people of Zakhoro are known is their reaction to the city's dark history. As one example, the Zakhoro area was the site of the first interactions between humans and Vloo, which resulted in some horrible practices for a brief time before civilization caught up with the westward expansion. The other noteworthy club in Zakhoro is the Gamma City Renegades (AKA Zakhoro GCR), usually found in the fourth tier or Tredje Ligan. The Gamma City nickname references a landmark scientific discovery that took place at a nuclear energy plant just outside Zakhoro - how to harness gamma rays as an extremely efficient energy source, making lightspeed travel possible and dawning our space exploration age. The Aces have more high-profile rivalries with fellow southwestern clubs Crawford City FC and Goldstaff City. Primary kit is a white shirt with a black sash (pictured right), black shorts and white socks. Their secondary kit features an aerodynamic all-brown look with varying shades of brown in a gradient pattern.

Team Preview: Zakhoro started last season on a positive note, their confidence from a dominant Sekundar Ligan run carrying over, but then had a long spell of futility as it wore on (2-4-12 in the middle half of the season). However, after scraping rock-bottom with consecutive 6-2 and 6-3 losses, the Aces began to pick themselves back up, mainly through the dynamic individual play of shaggy #10 Koru Özturk. With the main man’s confidence back, the goals started coming a little easier for Kurtis Samarqand up top and inspiration also returned to the Aces’ stable of quick, clever little wingers. Given last season’s highs and lows and dramatic end in the relegation playoff, the Aces will be looking to establish some stability across the season this time. For that to happen, Tekeh Na’Vatajin must improve the Aces’ league-worst mark of 85 goals against. Amongst the back line, only Euran veteran Robert Hobbs offered up a salvageable campaign, and defensive midfielder Ksenia Winterseer was a sieve despite her commendable motor. Banija international Ensa Camara looks a worthy addition at left back, but is he really an upgrade over former Askari captain Carmine Quaglia? Meanwhile, the fans’ cries for a new goalkeeper and center back went unheard. Na’Vatajin ardently believes that young Isaak Noff will be able to adapt to the HL level despite his struggles last season, and claims that the Aces were outbidded by Mallox for the services of Goldstaff keeper Lone Va’Nega. Welp. Water under the Everlong Bridge. This will have to be good enough. Another relegation (Zakhoro already hold the record for most total HL relegations) would obviously undo their attempts to recreate the period of midtable stability they enjoyed last decade. Acquiring creative midfielder Irsa Croxteth’s signature on the last day of the transfer window was huge, calming restless supporters and assuring them that the attack will at least be fun to watch again. The lithe, tough-to-pin-down Crisisbless product is a natural fit in Zakhoro’s pressing, quick-passing system. She’ll also automatically improve the team defending at least somewhat. She won’t have to try very hard to be less of a black hole defensively than 34-year-old predecessor Selena Aliena was. Altogher, Zakhoro have serious flaws. But they’re also genuinely exciting. Zapt Park will be as loud as ever. After surviving the turmoil of last season, with a year of HL experience under their belts, this promising new Aces team should be able to pivot forward and carve out a place above the red line.
Last Season: 16th (8-6-20). Prediction: 13th.

Mauricio Sigler (LM, 999-1001)
Belarmin Worsaw (ST, 998-1001)
Dwaro Na'Tule (RM, 1000-1007)

Sekundar Ligan Champions 989
Sekundar Ligan Champions 994
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1000
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1003
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1012

KEENAN ATHLETIC
Keenan, Cresscalus Fief

Nickname: Checkers, Bobs (short for Bobcats)
Founded: 958
Ground: DragonBull Field (21,000)
Manager: Matilda Heisenberg (59)

Transfers In: Tetris Chandilize (Brampton United $2m), Jake Malleom (Pinnacle Project $1.5m) Alfan-Harta Waz (KF Atlark $0.3m), Catheline Petterson (Wexax United free), Ibrahim Arieli (promoted)

Transfers Out: None

First XI (4-1-2-3): Verhoek (21) - Aspendelft (26), Kindgren (36 C), Waz (23), Fortidoré (27) - Lewitzki (30) - Cirvante (25), Fen (32) - Cutnine (23), Spisic (24), Sade (23)

Key Reserves: Petterson (GK/37), Malleom (CB/22), Arieli (CM/20), Chandilize (CAM/26), Gullmarstam (RW/35), Frederick (ST/34), Jónsson (ST/26)
Tactical Style: Expansive, Flowing Attack

Ah, oft-forgotten Keenan, viewed by many as little more than a midway stop on the Hyperloop between Cassandra and popular Pristinia cities like Hagenheim or Aldenskoett. Keenan originally blossomed into an influential city due to its place on the Pristine River, which flows from east to west across northern Cosumar. Back in the day, it was an important trade stop along the river downstream from Cassandra. In the last century or two, however, Keenan had more or less grown stagnant, with little new growth or development. It was one of Cosumar’s lowest major cities in employment, average income and quality of life. In the last decade or so, however, Keenan has been amidst a civic rejuvenation as the rest of Cosumar has “rediscovered” its underappreciated natural beauty and charming cultural blend of Pristinia hippy-quirkiness and Cassandra thrill. Keenan has now become the new trendy city for young people who are too cool (or can’t afford) to move to Ramusok or Cassandra. This has presented a great business opportunity for Keenen Athletic, as this influx of new citizens and new money has coincided with their own rebirth of success. Traditionally a yo-yo side between the second and third divisions, Athletic finally managed to cement themselves in Sekundar Ligan in recent years and now find themselves amongst the best in the Fiefdom again thanks to a great homegrown core. It’s a reimagined city with a reimagined club to rally around as the embodiment of all its progress. That’s pretty exciting! Keenan Athletic are known for their black and red checkers at home, contrasted by their more subtle grey checkers with red shorts on the road. There was a storm of controversy a few years ago when they renamed their historic grounds after primary sponsor DragonBull, but the outrage has mostly been dropped by all but the most die-hard longtime supporters now. So much of the Checkered Army supporters group nowadays is composed of young transplants who aren’t that attached to the history anyways.

Team Preview: It will be interesting to see how Matilda Heisenberg fares in her second HL stint in charge of the team. She oversaw a relegation in her debut campaign, just one season after predecessor Collette Sade spurred the Checkers to a surprise top-half finish. But the club showed faith in Heisenberg. She made a good start on repaying that faith by winning Sekundar Ligan at a canter, but now she needs to repay it in full by improving on her last go at the top division. She has a chance to do just that, with a squad that is similar with vital mainstays such as grizzled Rone Kindgren in defense and visionary distributor Häkon Fen, but also infused with hungry young players of real quality. In the two years since going down, the team has done well to develop electrifying stars on the wings in Elodie Sade and Caitlin Cutnine to replace former Keenan golden boy Olvir Texström, now plying his pacy trade in Eura. Same as when Texström and Jakob Gullmarstam were banging in the goals, this Checkers attack will use the whole field and make its living with its wingers. It would be great if Jan Johannes Verhoek could be the new Shjegrzh Na’Kefir as well. That’s less certain, but the intimidating 21-year-old certainly looks the part between the sticks and Heisenberg has Catheline Petterson in waiting in case he’s not ready yet. Meanwhile, Echani striker Dinko Spisic has also really polished his center-forward game since he first arrived in Keenan, winning a SL Silver Boot. The 24-year-old version of Spisic looks more equipped to make his mark on the league than the 21-year-old version did. Since she loves to rotate, Heisenberg also did well to bolster the depth with bargain-bin HL quality like Petterson, Tetris Chandilize, Jake Malleom and Alfan-Harta Waz. They’ll be thrown right into a fight for survival with Heisenberg’s job undoubtedly on the line. It won’t be easy, but this team has a chance to showcase why they won Sekundar Ligan last season and deserve to play at the highest level in Cosumar. Their success will all depend on how well this team, which relies so much on confidence and spirit, can continue playing and working together amidst much greater pressure and adversity. They have the quality to stay up. Do they have the fortitude?
Last Season: Sekundar Ligan Champions (18-10-6). Prediction: 17th, Relegation.

Bethan Davies (RW, 996-1001)
Rory Den Hartog (ST, 992-1002)

Tredje Ligan Champions 984
Tredje Ligan Champions 999
Tredje Ligan Champions 1002
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1013
Series B Champions’ Cup 68 (1014)

FC KALDUKOSIC
Kaldukosic, Kaldukosic Fief

Nickname: Victors
Founded: 756
Ground: Leviathan Arena (99,000)
Manager: Cillian Najdorf (58)

Transfers In: Inigo Bengochea (AC Izotz Zubia $7m), Mirko Koehler (Starling $5m), Sigrun Rathskeller (Stoneshore United $4m), Brian Helbro (Sebio City $1.3m), Yur Flaksenhaar (promoted), Theris Flaksenhaar (promoted)
Transfers Out: Cervante Richard (retired)

Starting XI (4-2-1-3): Koron (35) - Qotile (24), Satotxe (23), Rathskeller (28), Koehler (30) - Helbro (27), Hieri (21) - Wadimu (35) - Nisa (26), Bengochea (23), Teika (23)

Key Reserves: M. Flaksenhaar (GK/23), Litchmoor (CB/34), Y. Flaksenhaar (CB/17), Na’Jhadur (DM/20), T. Flaksenhaar (LW/17), Meratyn (RW/32), Ulvstrom (CF/35)
Tactical Style: Energetic high-pressing and countering without compromising solidity at the back.

Despite an entire metropolitan hub of 16 million to draw support from, FC Kaldukosic has always been a case of unfulfilled potential. Sure, they’ve had spells of success. Six consecutive UICA berths at the dawn of the Härlighet Ligan. Three consecutive UICA berths from 1006-1008 as the culmination of the Corey Simmons Jr era. A few scattered trophies in the archaic years pre-CosumarLigan. But they’ve never been able to sustain true “big club” status or even rise above gridiron and basketball (Kaldukosic Kataklysm, Havok, Krushers…) in popularity in their own city. As a result, their nickname of “Victors” is somewhat ironic and often derided by opposing fans. Yet, FC Kal were at least a permanent HL fixture, never relegated… until 1009. They’ve only just now recovered. Is it also the dawn of an era in which FC Kaldukosic will finally truly live up to the great city they represent? Kaldukosic is one of the most important trade hubs in Atlantian Oceania, situated on the east coast of mainland Cosumarus, just south of Ramusok. The two cities' metro areas overlap to form one continuous megalopolis. Whereas Ramusok is known more for its artistic, historical and governmental importance, Kaldukosic is the mecca of Cosumarite big business. Home to booming tech, research, medical and financial industries. It has an older, more profession-oriented population than Ramusok and a higher average income. Not as much youthful energy in the nightlife and music scenes (or soccer support), but plenty of swanky, more luxurious clubs and hangouts. Moderate weather, humid in the summer. Leviathan Arena, former home of the national team, is infamous for having the steepest (and highest) stands of any stadium in Cosumar, and the colossal - even suffocating - atmosphere that results when the full 99k is sold out, though only the CFL’s Blazers regularly do so. Sitting up high and looking almost straight-down is not for fans faint of heart. At home, they wear a dark green shirt with white columns that curve towards the right shoulder and a luxurious yellow collar (pictured), paired with white shorts and dark green socks with thin yellow circles at the top. Their secondary kit is a crisp all-white shirt with dark green shorts.

Team Preview: KALDU IS FINALLY BACK, BABY! FC Kaldukosic is one of Cosumar’s wealthiest clubs (the only one with a top-flight tradition in our biggest city), so few fans expected them to take four looong years to rebound from their shocking 1009 relegation, the first in club history. Let alone HL executives, who must’ve been just as sad missing out on Kaldukosic’s massive media market. In just one season under Cillian Najdorf, though, the sleeping giants finally reclaimed their place! The longtime Rozelle United manager got his team into a groove in the last two months which, combined with downturns in form for other promotion candidates, allowed them to surpass the Na’Ilee Mariners on the final matchday. Lovably stereotypical Farf forward Kaujarre Nisa sparkled during this stretch, scoring almost every match to leap up the standings and claim the Silver Boot with 22 goals. Desperate to never endure another agonizing Sekundar Ligan spell ever again, FC Kaldukosic spent big in the transfer window to dovetail together a roster that they hope can hits its stride in the top flight right away. Highly-rated Audioslavia prospect Inigo Bengochea is their star signing, a strong center forward to join Nisa and technical homegrown winger Antra Teika up top. That’s a fast attacking trio that no defender wants to see charging towards them in the press. Eastfield Lodge legend Georgina Wadimu – one of the few holdovers from FC Kaldukosic’s UICA teams pre-1009 – is a genius with the ball and could also be the key if she can still pull the strings for them at this level. Flanking her, Brian Helbro and Yuri Hieri are an intriguing yin-yang duo in midfield. Helbro an athletic wrecking ball with limited technical ability, Hieri slow but prodigiously skilled. They’ll be effective if they can cover for each other and combine their skill sets effectively. Behind them, Nepharim internationals Sigrun Rathskeller and Mirko Koehler are can’t-miss signings that lend instant credibility to a previously-questionable back line. Najdorf still has a lot of work to do if Kaldukosic is to return to its former glory as UICA regulars. The left side is very vulnerable, for example, and opponents will try to exploit that. The depth is thin. But he has reinforced well enough to make an immediate impact in the Härlighet Ligan this season and lay a foundation to build upon.
Last Season: 2nd in Sekundar Ligan (18-5-11). Prediction: 15th.

Corey Simmons Jr. (ST, 988-999) (MGR, 1003-present)
Grenville Antonsson (LW, 992-1004)
Dean Harold McSaunders (MF, 993-998, 1002-1008)
Chris Hodges (CF, 1000-1008)

King's Cup 1007

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SEKUNDAR/TREDJE LIGAN INCOMING
Cosumarite defender Jericho Bonn (18, Sarmon FC) has joined West Gundar
Cosumarite center back Grant Meador (18) has joined Nomad Brotherhood
Cosumarite attacking mid Jade Ortmann (18) has joined Versiaville
Cosumarite right midfielder Tulaska Sunström (18) has joined Versiaville
Cosumarite right back Tilda Tidesson (17, Real Azuris) has joined AC Holmenkollen on loan
Qusma manager Lynul-Zorno Dar (53, KF Trosoc) has joined Riverside Crew
Pasargan manager Jorit Van Kruistum (38, Baskita FC) has joined FC Flen
Schottic winger Jimmy Aytoun (20, Handon United) has joined Morponte Fief for $2m

OTHER COSUMARITES JOINING NEW CLUBS ABORAD
Jehan Bair (MGR, 61, Amazonesta NT) has joined the Hoima Warriors (BNJ)
Dakota Blaylock (ST, 23, Diamondqueen [NPH]) has joined Kirk Preston United (SCT) for $5m
Peter Butterworth (LM, 23, Klyde Heritage) has joined Battlebrook United (RAZ)
Tug Cooper (RB, 26, Arrowsmith) has moved within Eura to Holdenberg City
Diette Daleiden (CB, 34, Raven River [NPH]) has joined Kirston Union (PCR)
Gianluc De Oca (GK, 19, Centre For Excellence [APX]) has joined AC Stonehenge (RAZ)
Bryan Estes (RB, 20, Wofford Town [APX]) has joined Marinos Metropolis (VLD) for $8m
Harald Fireblade (CM, 22, Florence Boldclub [BSE]) has joined Tir Snake Strike (CEN) for $5m
Callie Flores (CB, 32, Ludogorets Markovsky Ladies [AFT]) has joined Vermillion Wanderers (NPH)
Conley Goddard (MGR, 67) has taken over the Razenthuria national team
Dirk Göffling (CB, 26, Fort Archer) has joined Hytheford Palace (ACR)
Jens Heisel (CF, 25, Otkins Numenvernia) has joined Carvi Albion (MRC) for $1.5m
Ivan Hemeyer (DM, 25, Diamondqueen) has moved within Nephara to Southfell United for $5m
Reginius Kunst (CM, 18, Gwynt Tywyll) has joined Suwawa FC (BNJ)
Yunsik Kvownik (DM, 20, Barbury Town [APX]) has joined Northampton (AVN) for $2m
Li H’sen Lang (CM, 30, Nabaek Sylph FC [FLD]) has joined Artesia Highlands (ACR)
Deirdre McNessa (CB, 33, Starling [NPH]) has joined San Marco Storm (PCR) for $3m
Kai-Kai Mokumdarian (CM, 20, San Marco Storm [PCR]) has joined Cornellians (SCT) for $17m
Tégen Na’Tarejen (RM, 31, Stoneshore United) has joined DKI Telecom Jets of Marianne for $4m
Toré Na’Verii (AM, 20) has joined Athletic New Victoria (RAZ)
Sil Na’Vijil (RB, 23, Cassandra Cosmopolitan) has joined AS Sharala (VAL)
Kamaal Nyle (ST, 25, AC Holmenkollen) has joined AS Montecristo (ACR)
Lorinda Reams-Smelton (LM, 21, Centre For Excellence [APX]) has joined New Dundee Star (PCR)
Tarran Seamster (CM, 22, For Archer) has joined Violence Chariots (NPH) for $1.5m
Evander Sinque (CAM, 28, Treftadaeth Alliance) has joined Chafford (BRE) for $1m
Thomas Scroggins (DM, 21) has joined Stilinkeep FC (PAS)
Anna Sibučić (ST, 24, Fevelo Colony) has joined Falkner United (BRE)
Allalani Va’Kar (LB, 19) has joined Mâ Âlâmëómë (FFD)
Aleena Tholanikunnal (RB, 24, Anchors FC) has moved within Chromatika to Wirr Tsi Shock for $1.8m
Olvir Texström (LW, 26, Dwile Warriors [APX]) has joined Falourr (EUR) for $12m
Douglas Tibet (MGR, 52, Stoneshore United) has joined Stahlburg City (NPH)
Doremus Umbraid (RM, 21, Centre For Excellence [APX]) has joined Astonbury (ACR)
Sacheverell Van Cann (MGR, 56, Kita-Hinode NT) has joined the IHFA as a youth coach
Mirijana Zajonic (RB, 16, Real Azuris II) has joined CA Paulinthal (PAS)

OTHER RETIREMENTS
Robahn Akindele (CB, 36, FC Brimstone)
Adriaan Andersen (RB, 39, Grigio Calcio)
Miguel Cano (ST, 35, Aznavour OSC)
Sauro Costabile (CB, 35, Armstrong)
Septimius Dellele (MGR, 70, Goldstaff City)
Gerry Duffy (LB, 36, Treftadaeth Alliance)
Snorri Erkins (CB/RB, 37, Na’Ilee Mariners)
Violante Funke (CB, 37, South Rathia)
Gazzincha (CAM, 35, Na’Ilee Mariners)
Cyle Haber (DM, 36, Copenbrok Club)
Kirum Ingolfsson (ST, 36, Treftadaeth Alliance)
Elveund Kirumsen (CM, 35, Francisca Orient)
Myken Lael (LB, 38, Aznavour OSC)
Esa Mäenpää (L/RB, 35, Stoneshore United)
Thia Ribos (CF, 35, Fevelo Colony)
Alexander Soarhaven (CB, 38, Violence Chariots)
Pato Yamaguchi (ST, 37, East Laithland Harriers)

[Cosumar]

See the previous two posts for the Härlighet Ligan team previews for Season 26.
This is a brief overview of the lower leagues.

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Fevelo Colony
Best Players: LWB Aurora Solignac, CM Via Ardanova

Stoneshore United
Best Players: LM Ali Carra, ST Yuanchiki Larrimbe

Na'Ilee Mariners
Best Players: GK Jeremy McNott, RW Sezon Na’Sugadaleh

Morponte Fief
Best Players: LM Lily Penhaligon, RM Jimmy Aytoun

AC Holmenkollen
Best Players: CM Gabrielo Romo, ST Lili Riprov

Treftadaeth Alliance
Best Players: LAM Toussaint Robitaille, CF Isaiah Miller

Ziemelu Skaida
Best Players: DM Ehab Amkura, RM Xandria Springgate

Gwynt Tywyll
Best Players: GK Cema Creed, CM Ferdinand Absalon

Sindo Fief
Best Players: LB Kaliya Java Gula, CM Kendron Pertzborn

Centus Serpents
Best Players: ST Magali Quaranta, LB Adam Vadimenko

Nomad Brotherhood FC
Best Players: GK Thea Henson, CB Grant Meador

FC Flen
Best Players: FW Nine Nokkentvek, DM Lea Minter

Riverside Crew
Best Players: DM Elsa Dietrich, SS Adrian Spekter

Versiaville
Best Players: CF Sirena Va'Drevu, LM Eugenio Prescott

Regalia City
Best Players: LB Tree Harper, CB Matthias Whyteleafe

IFK Sundsvall
Best Players: DM Maia Abylon, RW Ronin Yelich

Revanigruud Riversharks
Best Players: MF Ronson Ramirez, ST Tegsune Na’Japuna

Seryddwyr Aberaeron
Best Players: CAM Erwan Writ, CM Jennifer Townsend-Gregg

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West Gundar
Fort Archer
Cassandra Cosmopolitan
Otkins Numenvernia
AFC Obscura 98
Pristine Forest
Pardock Island
Klyde Heritage FC
Rexnor District 3
Sontafe City
AC Sepultura
Portsmouth FC
Bergtatt Isle Athletic
Brayllor Town
Tierra Interstellar Wanderers
White Tower FC
Esterhollow Harbor
SC Torpedo Kejsarkona
Forest Hill FC
West Devellin
Tornline
Nuur Origins FC

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Conference Cosumarus

Hvalsey 08
Larkinham Town
Dvinko Black Heart
Everlong FC
Yambridge City
Tamiat Town
Dawchire Town
Sarmon
Hagenheim South End
Cadonica United
Azure Lane FC
Atletisk Surpronuk
Black Diamond Osterhaut
Talmusok City
Cassandra City II
IFK Karlsborg
Crawford Sharks SC
Chesterton Cottagers
Volmachtia Kaldukosic
Club Toftir
Gladsax Chariot FC
Woods of Ypres
East Devellin
Cape Dutch Copperheads
High Noon FC
Highlanders
Inter Juta
Real Bellavista


Conference KC

Silk FC
Salfa City
Sammet Ridge
Caledon Legion
Gnoss Gallants AFC
Aberaeron Celtic
Kalloroda United
Meryuma Marshals
Atlético Oterro
CD Panteras Nueces
Rexnor District 5
Sólstafir
Templar-Lune FC
Treacherous Cove AFC
Sadenia Paladins
Aläng FF
Klyde City
Interstellar Erurok
Kreanoltha Vipers
Drahva United

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VfL Läutenstadt
Usk Town
IFK Nordön
FK Pentagram Pjattervid
Hamlack Town
Svart-Guld Klingaställe
Real Azuris II
Villa Forsetti
FC Kviststad
Wilmontsbloom Blue Star
Wiedna Town
Noumen Town
Gwerin Athletic
Moggington County
Atletisk Kvelertak
Emerald Cove SC
Cerulia City FC
Flithby Town
Satyricon Nemeses AFC
Gibwir Marsnal
Glasbon SC
Erpland County
Ardamirchan Isle United
Baymar Lagune
Oppland 806
Noths Castle
Orias-Kvissle SC
Oxbow Lake
Lindsborg Premier
Klyde II




AC Opjenheim
Somberlain FC
AFC Wernersburg
Atletisk Östrad
Ingleton Town
Chittersbee Rangers
Coppell City FC
FC Samotath II
AFC Centus
Marshall-Blue FC
Östrad Rockets FC
Dusk Athletic
Wealdheim Bards
Scarromere FC
FC Stellendam
East Gundar
Zirconim City
Paulsendam Town
Nabataea
IFK Sokuldijak
United FC of Stoneshore
Sporting Corrian
1. FC Guggenheim
Interstellar Östrad
Ramusok United II
FC Kaldukosic II
OAS Royal FC II
Eastweald II
Mallox II
IFK Keukenhok




Moore Hill Pirates
Scarborough
Sporting Culmar
FC Kastanjestad
SC Cirith 01
Rhithlungwerddon Town
Ajatarra Alligators
Lykathea City
FC Fejd
Attumac Wanderers
Malm Town
Mintwick Marmots
Goldsoul FC
Gorgoroth
Hassaburess Athletic
Austentrapp City FC
Jotungard 99 FC
Carnessa County
Impera Town
Columbia Town
Briquia Southside FC
Keldin Town
FC Invierness 912
Morponte Fief II
Ombra Castle
Harlegan Rovers
Club Varden
Heofoncandel Uré
Taigaen Plats
Nexus Magens FC




Sporting Pirankoper
SC Swamport
Stortrommeby Town
Ayr Athletic
Olympique Sur Mer
West Ellum
Grayslake
SEP Bjärnum
Yellow Meadow Lynwood
Klovstad Klub
Bayford City
Gamma Zakhoro
Chamomile Town
Crawford City FC II
East Ellum
FC Va'Lubasa
Rhupenhoven Town
Yuonela Town
FC Arkadius
Tromsdale Town
Falco Na'Diveh
FC Na'Travii
Thergothon
Drummond's FC
Duval Town
Theli City
Miklagaard Salvation
Red Star Karbosic
FC1. Richtofen Avalanche
Goldstaff Athletic




Buscari Bridge Force
Tranquility Treepolis
Varvonti Firestorm
Piander Falls FC
Alstagruuket Sarlaccs FC
Murkwaamp Suns
Rhodes Ravens FC
Borzac Sequins
Rexnor District 7
Ciems Mungonduvia
FC Dynamo Kurbads
SC Vronus 510
NOVIA Alliance
Tonsei Tumult
Orion Wanderers
Marinus City
Menoptera United SC
Romstafar Outpost
Rexnor District 4
Rexnor District 2
Rexnor District 6
Rexnor District 8
Rexnor District 9
Sporting Club Macofor
Dockery Union
Exxeco Station
Whitestone Athletic
New Hagenheim Canopy
Snaigow Hoarfrost
Levithia Shrievenzale

[Cosumar]

Champions' Cup - Third Preliminary Round

(TAE)          Laketown Rangers    5–3    OAS Royal FC              (COS)   4–1   1–2

In his first competitive fixture in charge of OAS Royal, Syl Denhardt makes the grave and slightly embarrassing mistake of underestimating the strength of Taeshani sides at home. Has he not followed UICA at all for the last three decades? The Rangers aren't scared of a rotated Royal on their familiar turf and run rampant from the first whistle. An improved effort in the second leg spares some blushes in regards to the aggregate scoreline, but wasn't enough to ever entertain thoughts of advancing.


Globe Cup - First Preliminary Round

(BNJ)    Busukuma Athletic Club    3–6    Mallox                    (COS)   2–5   1–1

Globe Cup - Second Preliminary Round

(COS)                    Mallox    4–3    Bethelm Warriors          (DRK)   2–1   2–2

Globe Cup - Third Preliminary Round

(COS)                    Mallox    2–2 p  Concordians               (ACR)   1–1   1–1  (3–4 pen)

Entering the Globe Cup in the first preliminaries presents a long and thankless slog to get where you want to go. Nevertheless, Mallox press on admirably. They dispose of two legitimately dangerous sides in Busukuma and Bethelm while still in preseason, but their momentum fades at the third and final hurdle. Concordians should've been the easiest of the three opponents on paper, but this close to the Härlighet Ligan opener, the Tigers' thoughts were elsewhere and it showed. Concordians managed to drag the tie to penalties in the second leg in Acronius and Karlus Sjunitsson's bad miss sent them euphorically through. The likes of Alexander Kárpáty and Stiin Siorrha'Asione will have to wait another year for their chance at real UICA glory.


Series B Champions' Cup - First Preliminary Round

(EQS)              Seaddle Rage    1–4    Na’Ilee Mariners          (COS)   0–1   1–3

Series B Champions' Cup - Second Preliminary Round

(SOL)              Union Orange    3–2    Na’Ilee Mariners          (COS)   1–2   2–0

Series B Champions' Cup - Third Preliminary Round

(COS)             FC Kaldukosic    5–2    Yalvore United            (DAR)   2–0   3–2

Na'Ilee Mariners bow out early despite two impressive wins against Equestrian opposition, while FC Kaldukosic enter later and march on untroubled.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 1
FC Kaldukosic 0–2 IFK Aldenskoett
OAS Royal FC 1–3 Mallox
Zakhoro Aces 2–6 Cassandra City
Helfin Fief 3–2 Pelethas United
Goldstaff City 1–1 Ramusok United
Olask Islanders 0–1 Real Azuris
Keenan Athletic 3–6 Crawford City FC
Samaj FC 1–0 FC Samotath
Eastweald 1–1 Klyde

There's a buzz in the air to make your chest tingle at Leviathan Arena! Big market bastion FC Kaldukosic is making its highly-anticipated return to the Härlighet Ligan, complete with a packed-to-the-gills crowd at the gargantuan stadium (a rare sight recently) and a gloriously sprawling tifo of green and gold. A match lacking in glory (or any rhythm at all) follows, however, and the crowd's excitement gradually dulls as it drags on at 0-0 with quality chances impossible to come by. Finally, in the 71st minute, Oskar Davidson then fully rains on Kaldukosic's parade by getting on the wrong side of Sigrun Rathskeller and driving Imanol Uranga's tapped one-two ball between the legs of Ael Koron and into the net. 1-0 to IFK Aldenskoett. The dream script just wasn't in the cards for Kaldukosic's big day... IFK's teenage wingback Eve Davenport came on and scored her first career goal to make it 2-0 in the 81st minute. Mallox also soured Syl Denhardt's big return. Back in his home city of Ramusok as the new manager of OAS Royal, Denhardt had no answers after Mallox went up 2-0 early and his opposite, Kennedy Kopenhaver, simply decided to shut the game down. The result was never in doubt after that.

There's no longer any doubt about Cassandra City's prospects this season either. The Reds were able to carry over their famous preseason form (an 11-0 friendly result against neighbors Cassandra Cosmopolitan grabbed headlines) into the real games. Farf import Lojes de Sájajo scored the first goal of 1014 on his debut in the 2nd minute and goals for the likes of Vega Zeale-Riddick and Ki Niro followed as the floodgates opened in Zakhoro on the poor Aces. An opening 6-2 home defeat is not an ideal way to inspire fan belief in the new season. A new signing in Guifré Mosquera also leads the way for Crawford City FC after getting the surprise starting nod with Kim Coultan ruled out at the last minute. With two quick goals in the first half and an assist to Kevin Stabb in the second, the Cazadores Cathair product helped Crawford match Cassandra's tally of six against Keenan Athletic. Maybe FC Kaldukosic didn't have the worst of HL returns, after all. Athletic's Matilda Heisenberg was livid with her young defense after such a humiliation in front of Nepharim peer Amethyst Fegelein.

The busy opening weekend also included a statement of ambition from Helfin Fief, who scored three goals in the second half to storm back and defeat UICA hopefuls Pelethas. Semyon Yucob has immediately marked himself a man to be feared in his return to Cosumar from Buyan, teeing up Aron Riise's equalizer with a cutback and scoring the winner himself - after breaking fullback Arthur Bourillion's ankles, of course.

Elsewhere, Corby Wheeler's great chipped goal that should've been a late Goldstaff winner was canceled out by a "butterfingers" blunder by young goalie Natassja Ravnajuv five minutes later, defending champions Eastweald looked lethargic for all 86 minutes after Eva Velasquez's 4th minute goal and surrendered a deserved point to Klyde, and the Samaj FC defending was every bit as impressive as the Cassandra City goalscoring... completely silencing FC Samotath's reloaded attack to zero shots on-frame.

On Olask Isle, the lone goal of another rusty match is scored in the very first minute by a Tidesson... but not the one you'd expect. Bryger was quiet on the day, but center back Alfred Tidesson produced a good omen for his season by climbing the ladder over Francesca Scougall on the season's first corner and heading home for three Real Azuris points. He was also instrumental in maintaining the clean sheet on the other end, making life easy for younger sister Edith in goal by repeatedly cutting out the supply lines to Olask striker Chrysanthe Scafidis.


Harlighet Ligan Matchday 2
IFK Aldenskoett 2–1 Klyde
FC Samotath 1–2 Eastweald
Crawford City FC 5–0 Samaj FC
Real Azuris 2–1 Keenan Athletic
Ramusok United 3–3 Olask Islanders
Pelethas United 3–3 Goldstaff City
Cassandra City 2–1 Helfin Fief
Mallox 3–2 Zakhoro Aces
FC Kaldukosic 2–6 OAS Royal FC

With the unique fervor of the first games behind us, the routine of the long season starts to set in. Crawford City FC continue rolling on all cylinders with ample Fegelein rotation. Young Cosumar U21 striker Arden Lemons makes the most of a starting chance this time, scoring and putting to tape some nice pieces of combination play with stars Stabb and Rusalka Klein. By the end it's 5-0, against a Samaj defense that impressed us all last week!

A frantic back-and-forth first half at Fire River Arena, one team scoring after the other, ends with Ramusok United trailing Olask Islanders 3-2. The second half is cagier and that suits the more conservative Islanders just fine. It looks like they'll escape the capital with all three points... until Dustin Bachelor pounces on the rebound of Lara Wedderburn's saved shot for an equalizer in the 76th minute. Jock Sonny will have wanted all three points at home, but gives a positive message of reinforcement to his molting young team for fighting through. Cassandra City need so such encouragement from Arturo Mancini. Their self-belief is clearly already sky high. Even tied at 1-1 late in their home opener against a resolute Helfin Fief, the Reds never looked anything but calm and assured of the eventual result. Sure enough, Zeale-Riddick lifted an 89th minute winner over on-rushing Maxine Edelgrau and celebrated by salsa-dancing with Jarobi Konsé, who had provided the through ball. Oh yeah, and VZR scored the first goal too. Apparently eager to keep up, big-name strikers Alexander Kárpáty, Andrew Arrowsword and Iain Cyn-Penzag also all opened their accounts this week in positive results for their respective teams.

OAS Royal haven't had the greatest start to their campaign, crashing out of the Champions' Cup and losing to their old-school HL rivals, but they get a spark from new signing Roxana Coffey this week in her first start in white. At poor FC Kaldukosic's expense. The former Bishop winger fit in like a glove with zippy Sen Marsteller and Zöe Aedelbrandt in the attack, the three of them collectively shredding Kaldu's slow-reacting back six. It will be an interesting competition between Coffey and incumbent Corey Simmons III for the majority of minutes on that right wing. He scored too to make it 6-2 after subbing on for her. Meanwhile, pessimism is already setting back in amongst the same Kaldu fans who bemoaned that they'd never get promoted back up. "This is a long-term project," Cillian Najdorf insisted post-match. "We were never going to get back to a UICA level overnight. This result is painful, but it's one we needed as a team to show us how far we still have to go and how much harder we have to work to reach our objectives. We'll get there. Believe it."


Champions' Cup - Playoff Round, Leg 1
Sabrefell Athletic (NPH) 1-1 Cassandra City

Reds vs. Reds! Sabrefell Athletic is about as good of a team as you can possibly run into before the group stage, so Arturo Mancini will be pleased with his team’s point at The Barbarossa, even if it possibly could – or should – have been more. Jason Goulding turned off of Graciano Farina and rifled a precious away goal into the side-netting in the 18th minute. Xixi Ens equalized with a leaping volley just before half time, but Cassandra City controlled large stretches of the second half and a rare Zeale-Riddick penalty miss in stoppage time made it feel like even more of a missed opportunity. All to do in the second leg.


Globe Cup - Playoff Round, Leg 1
OAS Royal FC 0-1 Wolcalt Keep SC (OLA)
Foxchester Raiders (STB) 2-1 Real Azuris

Real Azuris can be excused for a narrow loss with an away goal in Starblaydia, but OAS Royal losing in Ramusok to a team like Wolcalt Keep is something that simply shouldn’t happen. Syl Denhardt continues to underestimate Royal’s UICA opponents and the youth couldn’t get it done. The tie is still winnable though.


Series B Champions' Cup - Playoff Round, Leg 1
FC Kaldukosic 3-0 South Dre Intergalactic (DKI)
Humber Valley (MRC) 2-2 Keenan Athletic

FC Kaldukosic needed this confidence boost. The Victors finally give their supporters something to cheer about, Inigo Bengochea and Kaujarre Nisa both getting on the scoresheet in a comprehensive win. Keenan Athletic have a more difficult path through Mercedinian opposition, bu two away goals and an even tie isn’t a bad haul to take from the trip, even if young goalkeeper Jan Johannes Verhoek would’ve been expected to save one or maybe both of the Humber Valley goals.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 3
OAS Royal FC 1–0 IFK Aldenskoett
Zakhoro Aces 4–3 FC Kaldukosic
Goldstaff City 3–3 Cassandra City
Olask Islanders 3–1 Pelethas United
Keenan Athletic 2–2 Ramusok United
Samaj FC 2–2 Real Azuris
Eastweald 3–5 Crawford City FC
Klyde 1–2 FC Samotath

Cillian Najdorf is making progress in Kaldukosic. Slow progress, but progress nonetheless. Nisa’s midweek goal got him going, and the streaky Farf winger scored twice again as FC Kal fought back valiantly from a 4-1 deficit in Zakhoro. Now, if they could just avoid falling behind 4-1 in the first place, they might actually get their first point! As nice as Nisa’s two left-footed finishes on the break were, most eyes this week were on Eastweald-Crawford City and the eight goals scored there. CCFC now has 16 goals in three games, this time against the mighty Eastweald! It has been a remarkably high-scoring first month of the season so far and this high-profile bout of title contenders was no exception. Arden Lemons continued her breakout season with another brace to match Penumbra Amokachi’s. The difference between the two sides was that Lemons had more help. Hannah Alcouin and Jennifer Farrow also opened their accounts for the season in the second half to push CCFC into the lead. A rather more low-key but no less impressive performance came from Helfin Fief’s young center back duo of Thoralf Brynjolfsson and Jouri Salverda. The Vanorian, Salverda, is an athletic defender who likes to take risks, and Brynjolfsson is learning how to read his partner’s patterns and cover for him. Together, they were able to vaporize the threat of Alexander Kárpáty for Mallox and steer Helfin to a benchmark 2-1 win.

Other top highlights from the weekend included Arunas Saulnesis’ 94th minute equalizer to take a precious point off red-hot Cassandra City. The young Goldstaff midfielder continues to affirm his reputation for having a “golden touch in the clutch” – he only scores late stunners! They also included a bona-fide “welcome to the HL” game for former Cornellians star Jade Irwin, who assisted all three Olask Islanders goals against shockingly limp Pelethas opposition, getting the better of countrywoman Gudrun Crowley time and again. Finally, William Stone nodded home Adrián Del Toro’s cross in the 88th minute to steal Keenan Athletic’s first win from them and FC Samotath stepped up defensively (surprise, surprise!) against one of the few teams nearly as offensively-minded as them to eke out an impressive victory at The Klyde Sportsplex. Spyridon Kolitsidakis was everywhere and Santo Silvestri’s tireless running up top finally forced Klyde into a decisive mistake that led to his winner in the 81st minute.



Champions' Cup - Playoff Round, Leg 2
Cassandra City 3-1 Sabrefell Athletic
Cassandra City advance 4-2 on aggregate

Another day, another goal for Vega Zeale-Riddick. But the real star of the afternoon is Charles Dyer Vry, who unselfishly laid the ball off to his compatriot for the opener and added the third himself on a free kick to bury Tom Benedict’s side. Cassandra City are no joke this season.


Globe Cup - Playoff Round, Leg 2
Wolcalt Keep SC 1-1 OAS Royal FC
OAS Royal FC eliminated 2-1 on aggregate

Real Azuris 1-1 Foxchester Raiders
Real Azuris eliminated 3-2 on aggregate

Royal and Real aren’t terrible, they just… aren’t that good. 1-1 draws are all they can muster with their backs against the wall and for the first time in a decade Cosumar doesn’t have a team in the Globe Cup qualification round.


Series B Champions' Cup - Playoff Round, Leg 2
South Dre Intergalactic 0-3 FC Kaldukosic
FC Kaldukosic advance 6-0 on aggregate

Keenan Athletic 3-0 Humber Valley
Keenan Athletic advance 5-2 on aggregate

For all the HL’s inconsistencies at the highest UICA levels, our teams always take care of business in the SBCC. Kaujarre Nisa continues rounding into form for Kaldukosic with another brace, and Qad import Tetris Chandilize does the same for Keenan Athletic to introduce himself favorably to the hardcore fans who did come out to DragonBull Field on a late, rainy Wednesday night.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 4
IFK Aldenskoett 2–3 FC Samotath
Crawford City FC 1–0 Klyde
Real Azuris 2–2 Eastweald
Ramusok United 4–4 Samaj FC
Pelethas United 1–0 Keenan Athletic
Cassandra City 4–2 Olask Islanders
Mallox 3–2 Goldstaff City
FC Kaldukosic 2–2 Helfin Fief
OAS Royal FC 1–0 Zakhoro Aces

After four matchdays, four clubs remain undefeated. One is Crawford City FC, who have a perfect 4-0-0 record, this week riding a 4th minute Alcouin penalty and some brave sweeper-keeping from Hansi Weschler all the way to a gritty 1-0 win over Klyde. Another is VZR’s Cassandra City. The Princess of the Plains is on a breathtaking tear. She scored all FOUR of the Reds’ goals this week against Olask, repeatedly making the right run and selecting the right finish. It comes so naturally to her. Scafidis netted a casual brace as well, having her way with Cassandra City’s slow CBs, but she just couldn’t keep up with Zeale-Riddick. Real Azuris are also quietly undefeated despite losing a statement win as Ishtar Fanaiyan roped a 30-yard shot under the dive of Edith Tidesson to equalize at 2-2 in the 84th minute. Maybe that will inject some adrenaline into the heart of an Eastweald team that hasn’t really had a pulse yet this season.

…And then there’s Ramusok United. Jock Sonny’s young United side are undefeated too. The only problem? They’re also winless. They like their draws, man. Once again on this humid Sunday afternoon, a lively performance at Fire River Arena amounted to only a single point. The Blues allowed new Samaj striker Vesina Va’Lepeh to convert two opportunistic close-range chances in the final five minutes to equalize at 4-4. Similar disappointment at the other end of the table. FC Kaldukosic finally get their first point, but considering they led visiting Helfin Fief 2-0 after 12 minutes, it feels more like points lost than a point towards survival gained. Mauricio Larkspur hauled the Protons back with a pair of chipped finishes, both times beating Koron to near-identical Guerricaechevaria long balls.

Finally, Vanorian teenager Thor Møller was the difference for OAS Royal on the day with his remarkable physicality and clinical finish and Mallox’s touted new goalkeeper Lone Va’Nega beat his former team with a couple highlight-reel sprawling saves, which allowed Till Ümann to notch the winner with a laughably easy run and finish straight through the Goldstaff defense.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 5
Zakhoro Aces 2–1 IFK Aldenskoett
Helfin Fief 1–4 OAS Royal FC
Goldstaff City 2–3 FC Kaldukosic
Olask Islanders 2–4 Mallox
Keenan Athletic 3–5 Cassandra City
Samaj FC 2–1 Pelethas United
Eastweald 4–5 Ramusok United
Klyde 5–4 Real Azuris
FC Samotath 2–4 Crawford City FC

VZR IS AN ABSOLUTE SENSATION! FOUR GOALS… AGAIN! Not the HL’s best opponents in these two matches, admittedly, but the consecutive outbursts now have her on 13 goals in five matches! Staggering numbers! She just needs a mediocre season by her standards the rest of the way to break her own HL goals record! For Keenan Athletic, it’s a disappointing regression after they’d thought they’d fixed things defensively since being roasted for conceding six in the first game. At leat Dinko Spisic has found his scoring boots.

There’s also the season’s first Klyde Derby! And in keeping with the spirit of the season so far, it’s an absolute goalfest. The challenge of their mighty southern neighbors coming up for a visit brought out the best in struggling Klyde. Tied 3-3 at half time and for most of the second half, it was Ozaria Gandhi who had the big euphoric strike in the 86th minute to send the Doves on the victory path (and the Sportsplex into a frenzy). Griffin Riordan added a cherry-on-top two minutes later, emphatically smashing Micke Kvalderkorr’s cross into the roof of the net after it squirted through the legs of Adrian Lindberg. 5-3! 5-3! 5-3! Klyde ended up needing the Brenecian's goal, though, because Bryger Tidesson pulled one back for Real Azuris in stoppage time to drag the drama out to the end. And that wasn’t even the only dramatic 5-4 result this week! Big vote of confidence from Jock Sonny in giving 17-year-old winger Rosalie Duvalier the start against Eastweald, but she repaid his faith with a sublimely curled goal to make it 2-1 in the first half and another great first touch, dribble and pass to later set up Sparrow Body’s tap-in winner… mere seconds after Amokachi had re-awakened Old Weldenskirgen with an equalizer. For their part, Eastweald’s passing looked crisper and faster in this game than recent weeks (hence four goals), but they were overrun by exuberant United’s intense desire to close down space and win the ball back.

A trip out west to Goldstaff also delivered FC Kaldukosic their first win of the season... and first top-flight win in five years. Ironically, it was the only two remaining outfield players from that last win who propelled the Victors to this one. Georgina Wadimu manufactured a crafty pair of goals for herself (a penalty and deflected shot from the top of the box) and 34-year-old Sunrisian defender Brian Litchmoor, in his first appearance of the season, mashed home a corner in the 70th minute to produce the final scoreline of 3-2. Old guard FTW! Finally, defending U21 Player of the Year, Aron Riise, was on-target again for Helfin Fief with a back-to-goal strike (that’s a bright future there), but it was OAS Royal’s midfield who truly stole the show. Catheline Marchant had her best game in a Royal shirt and passed circles around the yellow jerseys with Elsie Drover, directly leading to three of their four goals.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 6
IFK Aldenskoett 0–1 Crawford City FC
Real Azuris 3–3 FC Samotath
Ramusok United 2–2 Klyde
Pelethas United 2–1 Eastweald
Cassandra City 2–0 Samaj FC
Mallox 1–1 Keenan Athletic
FC Kaldukosic 1–4 Olask Islanders
OAS Royal FC 2–4 Goldstaff City
Zakhoro Aces 5–3 Helfin Fief

CCFC woke up like this. They’re still flawless. And they’re getting goals from all sources, Juvencus international Joaquim Martell with his debut start and goal this week in chilly Aldenskoett after more customary Coultan and Alcouin braces carried the banner last week. Cassandra City are keeping pace, making Samaj look easy when we know their defense is anything-but. “The way we feel in the dressing room right now… there’s not a team in the multiverse that we wouldn’t like our chances to beat,” Zeale-Riddick says to sideline reporters afterwards as The Amphitheatre chants her initials.

Eastweald are still stuck on one win, surprisingly, and have now lost two straight after falling in Pelethas. Consider this a reminder not to forget about the Miners. The club opened the upper deck of the Xanadu Dome with the defending champion on the bill and it made for a big atmosphere as Didrik Miettinen continued his impressive season. The young midfielder from Rexnor Colony lifted a delicate pre-assist to the endline for Iain Cyn-Penzag to cut back for Alotic two minutes after Fanaiyan’s sliding finish at the beginning of the second half, and later slalomed past Somuele der Pros to slot home a 2-1 winner far-post. Credit also due to Jillian Nier, brilliant in goal to deny Amokachi multiple times, and the likes of Crowley and Jens Kåsa, tenacious to disrupt the Elves’ tiki-taka.

In the capital, missing piece Claudia Cautcher finally lurches to life this season with a well-taken goal, but Goldstaff City spring a surprise on Royal. Sparked by fearless teenagers Marija Jelic and Skaldir Tibrewal, unfazed by Crowley Memorial’s thousands, Goldstaff scored four unanswered on the counter after Cautcher’s opener. That’s a great place for debutant manager Diego Bandos to get his first career win! Real really should be beating Samotath at home too, but the Azurian fans were nonetheless thrilled when mercurial Birgid Tidesson scored her long-awaited first senior goal in the 85th minute off a cultured feed from her brother to steal a point back.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 7
Helfin Fief 1–1 IFK Aldenskoett
Goldstaff City 4–3 Zakhoro Aces
Olask Islanders 2–1 OAS Royal FC
Keenan Athletic 3–1 FC Kaldukosic
Samaj FC 2–0 Mallox
Eastweald 1–2 Cassandra City
Klyde 1–2 Pelethas United
FC Samotath 2–1 Ramusok United
Crawford City FC 1–2 Real Azuris

Eastweald-Cassandra is a big one - last year’s top two. It’s an evenly-fought match, but the result goes according to recent form. VZR continued her streak of scoring in every match so far this season (multiple times in most), but counterpart Dyer Vry provided the headlining goal with his 74th minute rocket in off the inside of the post. An Everlong River duel between southwestern neighbors Goldstaff and Zakhoro sees two teams with in-form attacks and shaky defenses collide with similarly predictable results. Seven goals scored. But it wasn't ever as close as you'd think a 4-3 game would be. Unerringly direct and deadly on the break, Goldstaff are dangerous when they get in this kind of *mood*. Picking up where they left off against Royal, Colm Farrier, Fan Xiaopeng, Aelfwynn Bannion and Tibrewal all scored in the first 25 minutes to strike up a lightning-quick 4-1 lead. And that was that, Bandos clapping and nodding briskly on the sideline with Bostitch Lane bouncing, cautious not to look too pleased with himself yet. But the former Port Christopher manager has Goldstaff City playing exciting stuff and Cosumar youth international Tibrewal looks on his way to a true breakout season.

OAS Royal is now officially in a rut, following up last week’s loss to Goldstaff with a fruitless trip out west. The fullback play was concerning as Islanders wide players Kamaal Ibn Methüzema and Inez Tamburelli generally did whatever they wanted to do. Keenan Athletic bashed their fellow newly-promoted side, star wingers Cutnine and Sade both finally opening their HL accounts after hitherto struggling to find top-flight end product to match their flashes of quality. That’s a very encouraging sign for Matilda Heisenberg. Athletic were banking their ability to compete on Sade and Cutnine making the transition. FC Samotath are ticking along quietly with another good result, Ricardo Sommerfield carrying the attacking torch today with both goals against Ramusok United. The Chromatik has been given free license to attack and shoot as he pleases this season and is fully coming into his own out from the shadow of Miroslav Vorobyov.

Finally, Real Azuris rise back to prominence by being the first to slow the intimidating march of the Elephants. A rare goal - two of them, in fact - from defensive stalwart right back Mortimer Chisenhall did the trick as young defender Liesl Vanzanto impressed in the middle against Alcouin. Johannes Lundblade’s Samaj FC were simply the superior and more organized team aganst Kennedy Kopenhaver’s normally very organized Mallox, and IFK Aldenskoett equalized off a corner in stoppage time to stun Helfin Fief for a barely-deserved point.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 8
IFK Aldenskoett 1–3 Real Azuris
Ramusok United 5–5 Crawford City FC
Pelethas United 1–1 FC Samotath
Cassandra City 2–0 Klyde
Mallox 0–2 Eastweald
FC Kaldukosic 0–2 Samaj FC
OAS Royal FC 1–1 Keenan Athletic
Zakhoro Aces 2–3 Olask Islanders
Helfin Fief 4–4 Goldstaff City

Gather ‘round, children! WEALD CLASSIC, WEALD CLASSIC! It’s the Mallox edition first this season, but the rowdy orange crowd is left with sore blue balls after the Tigers are just never able to connect that final pass in the attacking third, Alexander Kárpáty often cutting a solitary, isolated figure up top. Same thing against Samaj last week. Eastweald, while still nowhere near their scintillating heights of last season, did their part to secure the win. Velasquez raced onto Mina Mordini’s through ball to the endline and then danced past Kendrex Engram into the box and squeezed a cracking shot between Va’Nega and his near post. Orange Palace enraged. Then, Amokachi put the derby to bed in the 88th minute, jutting her leg out to redirect Der Pros’ backheel past wrong-footed Va’Nega as he fell on his back and stayed there. Orange Palace deflated. Bragging rights travel to the east side of the Weald until Matchday 25. Eastweald, are you back?

Meanwhile, there’s an unbelievable display of attacking talent (and lack of defense) in the Crawford-Ramusok U match. Stone and Wedderburn braces on one side, a Coultan brace and great individual goals from all three of Stabb, Alcouin and Lemons on the other. Incredible the confidence that Jock Sonny and Amethyst Fegelein - undoubtedly two of the top managers in Cosumar right now - have their strike forces playing with. Just a shame that the ten goals resulted in only one point apiece. That's been United's problem all season. Positive performance but just far too many draws...

Oh yeah, and VZR scored again. Streak alive. Impressive 20-year-old Lojes de Sájajo supplied the second as Serafino, Rowan and Konsé dominated Klyde in the middle of the park. Teenage Pasargan Szalyk Földessy scored for Samaj as a reward for her impressive debut season as a starter thus far, pegging FC Kaldukosic to last place with her diving header (and uncanny ability to never lose the ball). A now in-form Cautcher was on the scoresheet again for OAS Royal, but, thanks to Cutnine’s heroics for Athletic, it was only enough for a point rather than what could’ve been a win to see them into 3rd, and midtable curiosities Helfin and Goldstaff continued to defy their recent identities as rigid, low-scoring teams with an explosive 4-4 draw.







It’s Cassandra City out in front, paced by Vega Zeale-Riddick's average of two goals per 90 minutes. Astonishingly, Crawford City have actually scored even more goals than the Reds and look like worthy dance partners in 2nd. Real Azuris, Samaj and OAS Royal are the "best of the rest" and round up the early Globe Cup places. The likes of Mallox (despite Kárpáty not really hitting his stride yet) and the quietly dangerous Olask Islanders aren't behind by much.

Aside from maybe Eastweald's title hangover, Klyde are the biggest disappointments. The derby win over Azuris remains their only win or even satisfying performance, and Blinne Va'Tuaras' job might be in real danger if they don't perform up to their talent level soon.

1014 Härlighet Ligan  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Cassandra City          8    7   1   0    26   12  +14    22
 2  Crawford City FC        8    6   1   1    28   15  +13    19
 3  Real Azuris             8    4   3   1    19   15   +4    15
 4  Samaj FC                8    4   2   2    13   14   −1    14
 5  OAS Royal FC            8    4   1   3    17   13   +4    13
 6  Olask Islanders         8    4   1   3    19   17   +2    13
 7  Mallox                  8    4   1   3    15   14   +1    13
 8  FC Samotath             8    3   2   3    14   15   −1    11
 9  Pelethas United         8    3   2   3    13   14   −1    11
10  Goldstaff City          8    2   4   2    23   22   +1    10
11  Ramusok United          8    1   6   1    23   23    0     9
12  Zakhoro Aces            8    3   0   5    20   24   −4     9
13  Helfin Fief             8    2   3   3    17   21   −4     9
14  Eastweald               8    2   2   4    16   18   −2     8
15  IFK Aldenskoett         8    2   1   5     9   12   −3     7
16  Keenan Athletic         8    1   3   4    14   19   −5     6
17  Klyde                   8    1   2   5    11   16   −5     5
18  FC Kaldukosic           8    1   1   6    12   25  −13     4


Golden Boot Leader: 
  Vega Zeale-Riddick (16)

Some surprising names at the top of the table after two months, including a staunch Centus Serpents defense and an attractive, new-look FC Flen under Jorit Van Kruistum. Also some surprising ones in the bottom half, including the biggest club currently in the Sekundar Ligan (Stoneshore), a Versiaville side a lot of people fancied as dark horses and a Mariners side that came within a hair of promotion last season (minus Vesina Va'Lepeh). In the middle, last year's shock Tredje Ligan winners IFK Sundsvall actually don't seem out of their depth at all, though a third consecutive promotion looks unlikely. It’s still wide open though, and this league is prone to large shifts in the table even late in the season.

 1014 Sekundar Ligan         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Centus Serpents            8    6   2   0    13    5   +8    20
 2  FC Flen                    8    5   1   2    18   10   +8    16
 3  Fevelo Colony              8    5   1   2    15   10   +5    16
 4  AC Holmenkollen            8    4   3   1    12    9   +3    15
 5  Treftadaeth Alliance       8    4   2   2    22   18   +4    14
 6  Regalia City               8    3   4   1    12    9   +3    13
 7  Revanigruud Riversharks    8    3   2   3    18   17   +1    11
 8  IFK Sundsvall              8    3   2   3     9    8   +1    11
 9  Nomad Brotherhood FC       8    3   2   3    10   10    0    11
10  Gwynt Tywyll               8    3   2   3    12   13   −1    11
11  Morponte Fief              8    3   1   4     5    6   −1    10
12  Stoneshore United          8    1   5   2    14   16   −2     8
13  Sindo Fief                 8    2   2   4    11   13   −2     8
14  Seryddwyr Aberaeron        8    2   2   4    11   15   −4     8
15  Na'Ilee Mariners           8    2   1   5    13   17   −4     7
16  Versiaville                8    1   4   3    16   21   −5     7
17  Riverside Crew             8    1   2   5     8   14   −6     5
18  Ziemelu Skaida             8    0   4   4    10   18   −8     4

Sontafe City and West Devellin have emerged as early promotion favorites despite neither having ever been in Sekundar Ligan before. Sontafe’s excellent early form looks the most sustainable with their +15 goal differential. Promotion favorites like Fort Archer, Pardock Island and well-funded Otkins Numenvernia lurk well within striking distance too.

1014 Tredje Ligan                 Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Sontafe City                    10    6   3   1    22    7  +15    21
 2  West Devellin                   10    6   2   2    21   16   +5    20
 3  Forest Hill FC                  10    4   5   1    17   13   +4    17
 4  Klyde Heritage                  10    5   2   3    15   14   +1    17
 5  AFC Obscura 98                  10    5   2   3    17   17    0    17
 6  Portsmouth FC                   10    4   4   2    17   12   +5    16
 7  Otkins Numenvernia              10    4   4   2    16   11   +5    16
 8  Fort Archer FC                  10    4   4   2    18   15   +3    16
 9  Pardock Island                  10    4   3   3    19   11   +8    15
10  Nuur Origins FC                 10    4   3   3    11   10   +1    15
11  White Tower FC                  10    5   0   5    16   18   −2    15
12  West Gundar                     10    4   2   4    20   20    0    14
13  SC Torpedo Kejsarkona           10    4   2   4    13   19   −6    14
14  AC Sepultura                    10    3   4   3    24   22   +2    13
15  Cassandra Cosmopolitan          10    3   3   4    16   19   −3    12
16  Pristine Forest                 10    3   2   5    12   14   −2    11
17  Brayllor Town                   10    3   2   5     9   14   −5    11
18  Tierra Interstellar Wanderers   10    2   3   5     8   12   −4     9
19  Rexnor District 3               10    2   3   5     6   12   −6     9
20  Tornline                        10    2   2   6    14   21   −7     8
21  Bergtatt Isle Athletic          10    1   4   5    11   15   −4     7
22  Esterhollow Harbor              10    2   1   7     9   19  −10     7

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The King's Cup is the FSF's primary cup tournament. The Final, always played in Ramusok's royal district, is the last match of each domestic calendar. The cup, which has the names of all previous holders engraved into it, is presented to the winner by King James himself. The 256 clubs in Cosumar's top five tiers take part, all entering together in a randomized first round draw.

Division represented in parenthesis.
H = Härlighet Ligan (1st tier)
S = Sekundar Ligan (2nd tier)
T = Tredje Ligan (3rd tier)
L1 = Lägre Ligen 1 (4th tier conferences)
L2 = Lägre Ligen 2 (5th tier regional divisions)
Major upsets, high-profile fixtures and/or derbies are bolded.


First Round

Moore Hill Pirates (L2) 0–1 Woods of Ypres (L1)
Cassandra Cosmopolitan (T) 1–0 Coppell City FC (L2)
Emerald Cove (L2) 2–0 Brayllor Town (T)
Versiaville (S) 5–1 Olask Islanders (H)
Klovstad Klub (L2) 2–0 Esterhollow Harbor (T)
Levithia Shrievenzale (L2) 2–0 New Hagenheim Canopy (L2)
Jotungard 99 FC (L2) 0–6 Atlético Oterro (L1)
Nomad Brotherhood (S) 4–1 Columbia Town (L2)
Rexnor District 7 (L2) 1–0 Nabataea (L2)
Whitestone Athletic (L2) 1–0 Sadenia Paladins (L1)
Baymar Lagune (L2) 2–2 Thergothon Town (L2) (3–3 AET) (4–3 pen.)
AC Holmenkollen (S) 4–1 Ardamirchan Isle United (L2)
Zakhoro Aces (H) 1–2 Ramusok United (H)
AFC Centus (L2) 1–5 Ajatarra Alligators (L2)
Östrad Rockets FC (L2) 3–0 Real Azuris II (L2)
Talmusok City (L1) 0–0 East Ellum (L2) (2–0 AET)
Na'Ilee Mariners (S) 2–4 Samaj FC (H)
Cassandra City II (L1) 2–1 Templar-Lune FC (L1)
Sporting Corrian (L2) 0–1 Theli City (L2)
Dvinko Black Heart (L1) 0–8 Crawford City FC (H)
IFK Aldenskoett (H) 3–0 Satyricon Nemesies AFC (L2)
Flithby Town (L2) 0–2 Ziemelu Skaida (S)
Heofoncandel Uré (L2) 1–1 SC Vronus 510 (L2) (2–1 AET)
Falco Na'Diveh (L2) 4–1 Otkins Numenvernia (T)
Aberaeron Celtic (L1) 2–2 Yuonela Town (L2) (3–2 AET)
Portsmouth (T) 1–0 Bergtatt Island Athletic (T)
IFK Karlsborg (L1) 1–1 Oxbow Lake (L2) (2–2 AET) (2–4 pen.)
Sporting Culmar (L2) 0–1 Nuur Origins FC (T)
Keldin Town (L2) 0–0 Usk Town (L2) (0–0 AET) (1–3 pen.)
Ayr Athletic (L2) 0–1 Stortrommeby Town (L2)
Stoneshore United (S) 1–2 Miklagaard Salvation (L2)
VfL Läutenstadt (L2) 1–0 Mintwick Marmots (L2)
IFK Sundsvall (S) 2–1 Rexnor District 5 (L1)
Sammet Ridge (L1) 0–1 Orias-Kvissle SC (L2)
Borzac Sequins (L2) 0–2 Taigaenplats (L2)
Hassaburess Athletic (L2) 1–2 Morponte Fief (S)
Inter Juta (L1) 3–0 Ingleton Town (L2)
Ramusok United II (L2) 0–0 FC Arkadius (L2) (0–0 AET) (4–5 pen.)
Chittersbee Rangers (L2) 1–2 Rexnor District 2 (L2)
Interstellar Östrad (L2) 0–1 Pardock Island (T)
Tierra Interstellar Wanderers (T) 0–2 Pristine Forest (T)
Real Bellavista (L1) 0–0 Briquia Southside (L2) (0–0 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Gwerin Athletic (L2) 1–2 Rexnor District 9 (L2)
FK Pentagram Pjattervid (L2) 0–1 Goldsoul FC (L2)
Sporting Pirankoper (L2) 4–1 Oppland 806 (L2)
Rexnor District 8 (L2) 1–0 United FC of Stoneshore (L2)
Gladsax Chariot FC (L1) 1–1 Atletisk Kvelertak (L2) (2–1 AET)
Lykathea City (L2) 1–0 Erpland County (L2)
FC Dynamo Kurbads (L2) 5–1 Interstellar Erurok (L1)
Rhodes Ravens AFC (L2) 1–0 AFC Wernersburg (L2)
Lindsborg Premier (L2) 1–0 Romstafar Outpost (L2)
Chesterton Cottagers (L1) 1–1 Meryuma Marshals (L1) (1–1 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Bayford City (L2) 1–0 FC Va'Lubasa (L2)
Carnessa County (L2) 2–0 Aläng FF (L1)
Morponte Fief II (L2) 1–0 Dusk Athletic (L2)
Cerulia City FC (L2) 6–0 FC Stellendam (L2)
Tornline (T) 3–1 Dawchire Town (L1)
Treftadaeth Alliance (S) 1–4 Marshall-Blue FC (L2)
Rexnor District 3 (T) 1–0 Atletisk Östrad (L2)
Rhithlungwerddon Town (L2) 2–1 Hamlack Town (L2)
CD Panteras Nueces (L1) 0–7 Pelethas United (H)
Helfin Fief (H) 3–2 FC Kaldukosic II (L2)
Novia Alliance (L2) 2–4 Revanigruud Riversharks (S)
Seryddwyr Aberaeron (S) 3–1 FC Kviststad (L2)
Sindo Fief (S) 2–2 Gibwir Marsnal (L2) (3–2 AET)
Sporting Club Macofor (L2) 1–0 Klyde II (L2)
Real Azuris (H) 8–0 Somberlain FC (L2)
Noths Castle (L2) 1–1 FC Invierness 912 (L2) (2–1 AET)
Murkwaamp Suns FC (L2) 0–1 Hagenheim South End (L1)
Villa Forsetti (L2) 3–1 Wilmontsbloom Blue Star (L2)
Sepultura (T) 0–2 SEP Bjärnum (L2)
FC Fejd (L2) 0–1 OAS Royal FC II (L2)
Noumen Town (L2) 0–3 Eastweald (H)
Klyde City (L1) 1–0 Zirconim City (L2)
Drummond's FC (L2) 0–0 Forest Hill FC (T) (0–0 AET) (2–3 pen.)
Kalloroda United (L1) 1–0 Olympique Sur Mer (L2)
Gnoss Gallants AFC (L1) 1–1 Wealdheim Bards (L2) (1–2 AET)
Austentrapp City FC (L2) 1–3 Kreanoltha Vipers (L1)
East Devellin (L1) 0–1 Gamma City Zakhoro (L2)
White Tower FC (T) 2–2 SC Torpedo Kejsarkona (T) (2–4 AET)
Caledon Legion (L1) 0–0 Gwynt Tywyll (S) (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Rhupenhoven Town (L2) 2–1 Goldstaff City (H)
Tranquility Treepolis (L2) 0–0 Tamiat Town (L1) (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Club Varden (L2) 1–6 Klyde (H)
Larkinham Town (L1) 2–1 Black Diamond Osterhaut (L1)
FC Flen (S) 3–2 Crawford Sharks SC (L1)
Glasbon SC (L2) 0–0 AC Opjenheim (L2) (0–1 AET)
Regalia City (S) 0–0 Marinus City (L2) (1–0 AET)
West Devellin (T) 1–1 FC Samotath II (L2) (1–1 AET) (2–4 pen.)
Crawford City FC II (L2) 2–1 Gorgoroth (L2)
Silk FC (L1) 0–1 Chamomile Town (L2)
Keenan Athletic (H) 3–1 Goldstaff Athletic (L2)
IFK Keukenhok (L2) 1–1 SC Swamport (L2) (1–1 AET) (3–2 pen.)
Harlegan Rovers (L2) 2–1 IFK Nordön (L2)
West Ellum (L2) 4–1 Dockery Union (L2)
Varvonti Firestorm (L2) 2–3 AFC Obscura 98 (T)
Ciems Mungonduvia (L2) 0–2 Menoptera United (L2)
Exxeco Station (L2) 1–1 East Gundar (L2) (1–1 AET) (1–2 pen.)
Salfa City (L1) 0–1 Scarromere FC (L2)
SC Cirith 01 (L2) 2–1 Piander Falls FC (L2)
Tromsdale Town (L2) 2–0 Svart-Guld Klingaställe (L2)
Red Star Karbosic (L2) 0–1 Riverside Crew (S)
Yambridge City (L1) 1–0 Malm Town (L2)
Grayslake (L2) 0–1 Sarmon (L1)
Buscari Bridge Force (L2) 0–1 Atletisk Surpronuk (L1)
FC Samotath (H) 5–0 Azure Lane FC (L1)
Rexnor District 4 (L2) 2–3 FC Kastanjestad (L2)
Club Toftir (L1) 2–0 IFK Sokuldijak (L2)
Scarborough (L2) 1–1 Sontafe City (T) (2–2 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Wiedna Town (L2) 1–3 West Gundar (T)
Eastweald II (L2) 1–2 Drahva United (L1)
Attumac Wanderers (L2) 1–0 High Noon FC (L1)
Cape Dutch Copperheads (L1) 1–1 Sólstafir (L1) (1–1 AET) (4–2 pen.)
Everlong FC (L1) 3–0 Tonsei Tumult (L2)
Nexus Magens FC (L2) 1–1 Duval Town (L2) (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Klyde Heritage FC (T) 2–1 Orion Wanderers (L2)
Centus Serpents (S) 1–0 Cadonica United (L1)
Snaigow Hoarfrost (L2) 0–3 Cassandra City (H)
Ombra Castle (L2) 0–1 Moggington County (L2)
OAS Royal FC (H) 1–0 Fort Archer FC (T)
FC1. Richtofen Avalanche (L2) 0–6 Fevelo Colony (S)
Highlanders (L1) 1–1 Mallox II (L2) (1–1 AET) (3–5 pen.)
Mallox (H) 5–0 Treacherous Cove AFC (L1)
Paulsendam Town (L2) 1–1 FC Kaldukosic (H) (2–2 AET) (5–3 pen.)
Volmachtia Kaldukosic (L1) 1–1 Yellow Meadow Lynwood (L2) (2–1 AET)
Rexnor District 6 (L2) 0–1 1. FC Guggenheim (L2)
Impera Town (L2) 1–3 Alstagruuket Sarlaccs FC (L2)
FC Na'Travii (L2) 0–3 Hvalsey 08 (L1)

As always, there are some interesting results amongst the 128 first round matches being played across the Fiefdom. In the free-for-all-madness, a few Härlighet Ligan teams are bumped out of the circle early, including the Olask Islanders (a head-scratcher 5-1 defeat to northwestern rivals Versiaville) and, more shockingly, Goldstaff City and FC Kaldukosic both to inspired fifth-tier opponents. Sekundar Ligan favorites like Stoneshore United and Treftadaeth Alliance and last edition's historic Cinderella, Otkins Numenvernia, were no exception to the Lägre Ligen carnage either. Zakhoro Aces and Ramusok United had the misfortune of drawing each other this early on, and the Aces had the particular misfortune of attempting to play a 70-yard back pass to the goalkeeper from the opposition half in the 4th minute of stoppage time. Of course, Lara Wedderburn glided onto it and nutmegged a stranded Sinistar for the last-ditch win as offender Irsa Croxteth looked on from across the pitch with her head in her hands. At the other end of the spectrum, Crawford City FC and Real Azuris both won their matches 8-0 with completely rotated squads. Gotta love Cup drama.

Second Round

Woods of Ypres (L1) 0–0 Cassandra Cosmopolitan (T) (0–0 AET) (6–7 pen.)
Emerald Cove (L2) 2–2 Versiaville (S) (2–2 AET) (3–0 pen.)
Klovstad Klub (L2) 2–3 Levithia Shrievenzale (L2)
Atlético Oterro (L1) 5–1 Nomad Brotherhood (S)
Rexnor District 7 (L2) 1–0 Whitestone Athletic (L2)
Baymar Lagune (L2) 1–2 AC Holmenkollen (S)
Ramusok United (H) 4–0 Ajatarra Alligators (L2)
Östrad Rockets FC (L2) 0–1 Talmusok City (L1)
Samaj FC (H) 1–1 Cassandra City II (L1) (1–1 AET) (4–5 pen.)
Theli City (L2) 0–8 Crawford City FC (H)
IFK Aldenskoett (H) 2–2 Ziemelu Skaida (S) (2–3 AET)
Heofoncandel Uré (L2) 0–0 Falco Na'Diveh (L2) (0–0 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Aberaeron Celtic (L1) 3–3 Portsmouth (T) (3–4 AET)
Oxbow Lake (L2) 0–2 Nuur Origins FC (T)
Usk Town (L2) 1–4 Stortrommeby Town (L2)
Miklagaard Salvation (L2) 0–0 VfL Läutenstadt (L2) (1–2 AET)
IFK Sundsvall (S) 1–0 Orias-Kvissle SC (L2)
Taigaenplats (L2) 0–1 Morponte Fief (S)
Inter Juta (L1) 1–3 FC Arkadius (L2)
Rexnor District 2 (L2) 2–0 Pardock Island (T)
Pristine Forest (T) 1–0 Real Bellavista (L1)
Rexnor District 9 (L2) 0–1 Goldsoul FC (L2)
Sporting Pirankoper (L2) 2–2 Rexnor District 8 (L2) (2–4 AET)
Gladsax Chariot FC (L1) 0–2 Lykathea City (L2)
FC Dynamo Kurbads (L2) 1–0 Rhodes Ravens AFC (L2)
Lindsborg Premier (L2) 0–1 Meryuma Marshals (L1)
Bayford City (L2) 3–2 Carnessa County (L2)
Morponte Fief II (L2) 1–1 Cerulia City FC (L2) (1–1 AET) (5–6 pen.)
Tornline (T) 1–2 Marshall-Blue FC (L2)
Rexnor District 3 (T) 2–1 Rhithlungwerddon Town (L2)
Pelethas United (H) 3–0 Helfin Fief (H)
Revanigruud Riversharks (S) 2–0 Seryddwyr Aberaeron (S)
Sindo Fief (S) 4–1 Sporting Club Macofor (L2)
Real Azuris (H) 4–0 Noths Castle (L2)
Hagenheim South End (L1) 2–2 Villa Forsetti (L2) (3–2 AET)
SEP Bjärnum (L2) 1–5 OAS Royal FC II (L2)
Eastweald (H) 6–0 Klyde City (L1)
Forest Hill FC (T) 1–1 Kalloroda United (L1) (2–1 AET)
Wealdheim Bards (L2) 1–0 Kreanoltha Vipers (L1)
Gamma City Zakhoro (L2) 2–0 SC Torpedo Kejsarkona (T)
Gwynt Tywyll (S) 0–0 Rhupenhoven Town (L2) (1–0 AET)
Tamiat Town (L1) 0–4 Klyde (H)
Larkinham Town (L1) 1–0 FC Flen (S)
AC Opjenheim (L2) 0–2 Regalia City (S)
FC Samotath II (L2) 0–1 Crawford City FC II (L2)
Chamomile Town (L2) 1–4 Keenan Athletic (H)
IFK Keukenhok (L2) 1–4 Harlegan Rovers (L2)
West Ellum (L2) 0–1 AFC Obscura 98 (T)
Menoptera United (L2) 2–1 East Gundar (L2)
Scarromere FC (L2) 0–1 SC Cirith 01 (L2)
Tromsdale Town (L2) 0–2 Riverside Crew (S)
Yambridge City (L1) 2–1 Sarmon (L1)
Atletisk Surpronuk (L1) 0–4 FC Samotath (H)
FC Kastanjestad (L2) 1–1 Club Toftir (L1) (1–1 AET) (0–3 pen.)
Scarborough (L2) 1–1 West Gundar (T) (2–1 AET)
Drahva United (L1) 1–0 Attumac Wanderers (L2)
Cape Dutch Copperheads (L1) 1–1 Everlong FC (L1) (1–1 AET) (2–4 pen.)
Nexus Magens FC (L2) 1–0 Klyde Heritage FC (T)
Centus Serpents (S) 0–1 Cassandra City (H)
Moggington County (L2) 0–3 OAS Royal FC (H)
Fevelo Colony (S) 4–4 Mallox II (L2) (4–4 AET) (0–3 pen.)
Mallox (H) 2–0 Paulsendam Town (L2)
Volmachtia Kaldukosic (L1) 4–1 1. FC Guggenheim (L2)
Alstagruuket Sarlaccs FC (L2) 0–2 Hvalsey 08 (L1)

And there's more! Samaj go out on penalties to Cassandra City, no surprise there... oh, wait? What? It's Cassandra City II? As in their actual fourth-tier reserve team? Ouch. That's a tough insult to swallow for Samaj fans. The real Cassandra City eke past a strong Centus Serpents side with the lone goal provided by Dyer Vry off the rebound of Zeale-Riddick's saved effort. Something was in the water for reserve teams, because Mallox II upended Fevelo Colony on penalties too. HL sides Aldenskoett and Helfin Fief also make their exits here, albeit against decent opposition, and an FC Samotath forward line featuring Interrobang Bermond and Mriin star Mako Silanii pulverizes Atletisk Surpronuk in a forgotten rivalry clash of two northern cities that butted heads frequently in the antiquity days of Cosumarite soccer. And Crawford City FC win 8-0. Again. Depth pieces like Martell and Guilliver go off in this one, furthering their case for an increased role from Fegelein.

[Cosumar]

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 9
Goldstaff City 0–0 IFK Aldenskoett
Olask Islanders 3–3 Helfin Fief
Keenan Athletic 1–0 Zakhoro Aces
Samaj FC 0–1 OAS Royal FC
Eastweald 4–4 FC Kaldukosic
Klyde 1–2 Mallox
FC Samotath 2–1 Cassandra City
Crawford City FC 3–1 Pelethas United
Real Azuris 5–3 Ramusok United

Cassandra City finally go down, Vega Zeale-Riddick’s scoring streak snapped by the *least* likely defense to do so. Big Capsin Sibuc was a boss in central defense, Spyridon Kolitsidakis was popping up everywhere to keep traffic going the other direction and Dimitra Exarchopolous and Santo Silvestri linked up well in the final third for FC Samotath. The other red-and-black team known for leaking goals in the back, Keenan Athletic, also sealed a great home result with a mature defensive performance to rally the fans. The Aces probably deserved at least a point for all the chances they created, but Verhoek stood on his head to make sure Dinko Spisic’s chipped 25th minute opener stood tall. Who else stood tall? Sen Marsteller. Literally. She had to outleap 6”4 Samaj defender Jakoljevic to nod Drover’s long ball back across Maston to the far post. The 80th minute winner settled what had been a testy, hard-tackling 0-0 draw to that point.

But don’t worry, there were still some customary HL shootouts to go with the improved defenses this week. Bryger Tidesson and Andrew Arrowsword oozed their quality in a 5-3 win over Ramusok United, combining for all five goals (the Cenian with the hat trick) to keep always one step ahead of United’s scrappy comeback efforts. “Consider this a shot across the bow to the rest of the league,” the eldest Tidesson said. “Azuris is going to be a factor in this title race.”

Draws can be big results too. 4-4 at Old Weldenskirgen is a feather in Cillian Najdorf's cap, especially considering his FC Kaldukosic had to deal with an inspired Jagoda Kovacevic on the day. Eastweald’s prized Pasargan prospect twice flashed her breathtaking athleticism to bypass Kaldukosic’s defense for stellar goals, but each was answered quickly by the visitors – Kaujarre Nisa ending up with a brace of his own. Helfin Fief also fought back from 2-0 down to raid Olask Isle for a point on Semyon Yucob’s late heroics. But did his 88th minute goal begin with a headbutt on Larissa Canales? All of Kamu Road sure thought so. Commence a new round of debate on whether Cosumar should introduce VAR…


Harlighet Ligan Matchday 10
IFK Aldenskoett 1–0 Ramusok United
Pelethas United 2–0 Real Azuris
Cassandra City 3–1 Crawford City FC
Mallox 1–2 FC Samotath
FC Kaldukosic 3–1 Klyde
OAS Royal FC 3–4 Eastweald
Zakhoro Aces 1–3 Samaj FC
Helfin Fief 2–1 Keenan Athletic
Goldstaff City 4–5 Olask Islanders

Cassandra City and Crawford City are the two form teams, the frontrunners of the early season, so naturally their showdown at The Amphitheatre drew all the eyeballs. It was a bit of a strange match, marred by a double-red awarded to Jarobi Konsé and Dimitri Hagicostas for a brief but heated confrontation just ten minutes in, so it’s tough to draw any real insights from the Reds’ 3-1 win that ensued. In the end, however, it will be remembered more for Ace Newman’s hero’s return to Cassandra. In the 67th minute, the 38-year-old legend for club and country subbed in for his first appearance at The Amphitheatre in thirteen years. Five minutes later, with the match at 2-1, he waltzed onto the end of a long Serafino through ball that had been intended for VZR but deflected into his path by the heel of Sarah Arrowsword. Clear on goal, you know what happened next. Match over. FC Samotath remain the only side to best Cassandra City. But, hey, maybe that wasn’t a fluke? The Black Hawks are starting to look like the real deal after another strong defensive performance at Mallox. Šimon Holguín seems to have dialed back his adventurous tactics a bit in favor of just a hint of pragmatism (don’t let any Samotathians hear you say that word), yet at the same time Silvestri is putting the ball in the back of the net more consistently than ever. It’s a good recipe for success. But is it sustainable?

Other questions on the Fiefdom’s mind: What's wrong with Klyde? That group simply should not be getting handled so easily by newly-promoted teams (even if FC Kaldukosic have some tangible quality as evidenced by Bengochea’s brace). Well, Griffin Riordan only has one goal this season, that's a good place to start. They just look completely out of sync with each other, barely able to string two passes together. Rumors of discord in the dressing room are concerning as well. How much longer does Blinne Va’Tuaras have before the board panics and pulls the plug? This loss saw Klyde switch places with Kaldu into last.

Also: How are Ramusok United so damn unlucky? They’ve looked pretty good by the eye test, but the results just keep going against them in new and creative ways each week. In Aldenskoett this time, the league might want to investigate whether IFK fans stuffed magnets into the ball and goalposts, because the Blues struck the woodwork an astonishing nine times in this game. IFK Aldenskoett didn’t even have *one* normal shot-on-frame, but won nevertheless on a United clearance attempt that deflected back into Lilly Kearney’s goal off of winger Glidewing’s back.

As for what happened out west between Goldstaff City and the Islanders? Yeah, way too many questions arising out of that madness to even address… Corby Wheeler carves up the Olask defense, involved in all four Goldstaff goals, but it’s okay because Goldstaff don’t have a defense to start with and Olask kind of have an actual offense now! Fion “Krazy” Tzyzakoos starts in place of a resting Scafidis and goes ham and Canales randomly adds two screamers from outside the box. In the end, what matters is that the Islanders boast as many wins as any club not from Cassandra or Crawford.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 11
Olask Islanders 0–1 IFK Aldenskoett
Keenan Athletic 0–1 Goldstaff City
Samaj FC 2–0 Helfin Fief
Eastweald 2–3 Zakhoro Aces
Klyde 3–2 OAS Royal FC
FC Samotath 1–0 FC Kaldukosic
Crawford City FC 2–2 Mallox
Real Azuris 3–4 Cassandra City
Ramusok United 2–3 Pelethas United

FC Samotath continue their impressively gritty winning streak, this time powering past FC Kaldukosic on the strength of Exarchopolous’ falling-backwards finish after cutting inside from the left (as well as sweeper Ayk Panossian absolutely wrecking Bengochea with perfectly-timed slide tackles twice). Amongst other 1-0 results, IFK’s Declan Smith and Goldstaff’s Aelfwynn Bannion headed their sides to three invaluable road points in the 81st and very 1st minutes, respectively.

Klyde get a much-needed turn of fortunes with a surprising win over OAS Royal, even if their frailties were again exposed along the way. They took an early 2-0 lead at home, coughed it back up in the second half after a bad midfield giveaway and silly foul, but then homegrown Cathal Turner came on to loud cheer in the 81st minute and won it back 3-2 with some deft dribbling on the right side of the box and diagonal finish. Can the teen phenom be the talisman they need to turn their season around? Ramusok United contrive to do what Klyde nearly pulled off and lose a game they once led, Pelethas United’s Didrik Miettinen and Charlie Alotic teaming up to bamboozle slumping defensive centerpiece John Hare on three different occasions, including the Mercedini international’s 86th minute winner that unleashed a chorus of boos at Fire River.

In keeping with the weekend’s theme of surprisingly precarious 2-0 leads, Alexander Kárpáty also dug Mallox out of a 2-0 hole away at Crawford City FC with two clinical finishes out of nothing. He’s finally looking like his best self again, and the Tigers (unlike the two Ramusok sides) actually have the defense to make sure they don’t let their grip on a vital 2-2 point slip. Keziah Broxham, with a spectacular display of hustle, clears Hannah Alcouin’s would-be second goal off the line in the 83rd.

In the last 3-2 game, there’s a slightly different pattern. All five goals in Eastweald-Zakhoro are scored in a furious first half. Eastweald’s two are absolutely beautiful team goals orchestrated by Somuele der Pros, but… they all count the same, so Zakhoro defiantly win in Yambridge with their poached finishes and deflections.

In other news, Cassandra City roll through another opponent. Yawn. Oh wait, it’s an opponent named Real Azuris! Young keeper Edith Tidesson looked on the verge of tears as Ki Niro tauntingly slowed down before scooping the ball up and around her to make it 4-1 on a wide-open breakaway.




Harlighet Ligan Matchday 12
IFK Aldenskoett 1–0 Pelethas United
Cassandra City 2–2 Ramusok United
Mallox 2–3 Real Azuris
FC Kaldukosic 2–1 Crawford City FC
OAS Royal FC 2–1 FC Samotath
Zakhoro Aces 1–2 Klyde
Helfin Fief 3–3 Eastweald
Goldstaff City 1–3 Samaj FC
Olask Islanders 3–3 Keenan Athletic

Aldenskoett have only scored 12 goals in 12 games… but have also allowed only 12. That’s why they’re suddenly in the top half after another 1-0 win. Speaking of boring games, the Red-Blue Millennium Miracle rivalry ends in a stalemate after both sides scored a goal apiece on a penalty and a corner. City and United – both high-octane sides – just ran each other ragged until not much could be built from the run of play. That has to be what Jock Sonny had in mind when he sent his low-on-confidence Blues into Cassandra, which has been an absolute lion’s den this season. He’ll be thrilled to have stolen a point.

Back in the capital valley, Crawford City FC miss the chance to make up ground, falling prey to Najdorf’s tight, increasingly well-drilled Victors in Kaldukosic. Kim Coultan came through with a goal as usual – she’s been great even by her standards this year – but they otherwise found it tought to break through and fell 2-1. Also back in the capital valley, FC Samotath’s winning streak grinds to a halt against OAS Royal, Thor Møller blowing the roof off of Crowley Memorial with a last-kick-of-the-game penalty.

And just when it seemed like Mallox were starting to shift their gear out of neutral and make a run, they run into a razorblade called Bryger Tidesson at home. Kárpáty scored again to offer some silver lining, but Bryger was the star of the show with his brace as Real Azuris won 3-2 at The Orange Palace. Hmmm, think he wants that big-money move that’s being rumored for him next window? Well, we know who won’t be getting any big-money offers right now. Anyone with defensive responsibility for Eastweald. Ishtar Fanaiyan was on-point and on the scoresheet for the third consecutive week, but it’s all for naught because they keep allowing easy goals. They’re really missing Dexter Tricklebank, a hard-nosed presence in that midfield to break things up.

Finally, Olask manager Collette Sade receives a visit from the team she got promoted, Keenan Athletic, and is promptly done over by her own daugher (Elodie Sade) and former trusty jackknife (Jakob Gullmarstam) for three different equalizers. “Sorry mom!” Elodie mouthes to the camera with her hands up in helpless gesture while celebrating her second – a looping strike from wide right that caught Trent Fielding out of position.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 13
Keenan Athletic 1–0 IFK Aldenskoett
Samaj FC 0–0 Olask Islanders
Eastweald 1–0 Goldstaff City
Klyde 3–2 Helfin Fief
FC Samotath 1–0 Zakhoro Aces
Crawford City FC 1–1 OAS Royal FC
Real Azuris 2–2 FC Kaldukosic
Ramusok United 2–1 Mallox
Pelethas United 3–4 Cassandra City

You know it’s a week lean on action when the biggest talking point is Klyde’s Ewout Broon getting sent off for sticking his foot up a prostrate Helfin Fief player’s ass. Yeah… that’s one way to go from hero after scoring the 11th minute opener straight to goat. But Luella Svenskah replaces him in defensive midfield with the Doves down 2-1 and rallies them back for a euphoric home win despite being down a man. The Schottic HL veteran even scored the winner herself, a rare sight as she barrelled into the box, shouldered Niesha Haig aside and smashed an always-rising strike throught the flailing arms of Maxine Edelgrau. Klyde have won three straight now and finally seem to have kickstarted their season. It’s a tough one to take for Helfin Fief. All Josie MacLean can do afterwards is whine repeatedly about how Broon “would be in prison for assault” (physical or sexual, take your pick) if his “incident” had taken place anywhere other than a football pitch.

Ramusok United also got some much-needed relief in the form of William Stone bundling home a 77th minute winner after Lara Wedderburn’s cutback got caught in Tas Danko’s stride and squirted through to him at the far post. Already six points out in front going into this weekend, Cassandra City didn’t exactly *need* their own late winner, but they got one anyways, of course, in the Sunday nightcap at The Xanadu Dome. All the momentum was behind Pelethas United after Iain Cyn-Penzag knocked down a cross for Ryan Xandreas to lash home to make it 3-3 in the 80th minute, having trailed 3-1 at the half, but Ki Niro cared not. Against the run of play in the final stages, she sprinted 50 yards downfield and somehow got on the end of Gargo’s booted clearance ahead of three silver shirts before breaking their ankles with some twisting and turning moves before casually picking out countrywoman Nier’s side-netting. City are just having one of those seasons where everything follows the script perfectly.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 14
IFK Aldenskoett 2–4 Cassandra City
Mallox 2–2 Pelethas United
FC Kaldukosic 0–1 Ramusok United
OAS Royal FC 0–0 Real Azuris
Zakhoro Aces 2–4 Crawford City FC
Helfin Fief 0–1 FC Samotath
Goldstaff City 2–3 Klyde
Olask Islanders 1–1 Eastweald
Keenan Athletic 6–4 Samaj FC

Speaking of scripts… it’s not a script anyone saw coming for FC Samotath, winning matches 1-0, but they sure are sticking to it. Last week, they simply pinned the deer-in-headlights Aces back in their own half with numbers and circled the ball around their box endlessly. Eventually Exarchopolous scored. Offense is the best defense? This week, there was a bit more actual defending involved as Helfin Fief’s in-form winger Yucob offered a spicy threat on the counter and they also had to keep tabs on always-opportunistic Aron Riise in the middle, but still Samo’s three-man back line was able to avoid getting its wires crossed and keep the game’s momentum moving back in the opposite direction. Unheralded Simon Ardley, Alan Hernández and Loreline Fietsam are all turning out to be seriously good pickups alongside Sibuc. Kolitsidakis swung in the game-winning free kick in the 69th minute. It was probably meant as service, but it went untouched through the box and snuck inside the back post. A few at Alesund Stadion remonstrated the lack of goals, but hey, Samo are getting results, and that will keep complaints to a minimum.

Klyde and Ram Utd are continuing to warm up, United’s Stone punishing FC Kaldukosic with an 89th minute volley in a clash of neighboring metropolises and Riordan in particular roaring to life in Goldstaff with a goal and assist. Goldstaff City, for their part, are cooling down, their spell of crackling offensive firepower earlier in the season a distant fantasy after three consecutive defeats. Diego Bandos needs to coax more consistency out of his Guardians if they want avoid getting dragged into the relegation dogfight. Incosistency is plaguing most teams in this league right now except for two: Cassandra City and Crawford City. They were the two big winners this week (again) and it’s already starting to look like a two-horse race (if any race at all). Unless the enigmatic FC Samotath, in a close 3rd, can keep winning matches 1-0 for five more months.

#MildlyInteresting: Keenan Athletic came sort of close to scoring more goals than their opponents Samaj had players on the field. With two players thrown off for making contact with a ref in a heated protest and another earning a second yellow at the hour mark, Samaj were down to eight men for a full half hour of play. No surprise that Athletic poured it on after that, Elodie Sade and Lethe Cirvante each exploiting wide open space for braces. If anything, with a three-man advantage, it’s surprising that they didn’t make it to eight goals and 8-man Samaj managed to still tack two more on. Samaj’s Johannes Lundblade pretended to have amnesia after the match when asked about the red cards. “Tonight was an unfortuante outlier there’s nothing to gain from dwelling on it. I’ve instructed our players to erase it from their memories as if it didn’t happen. I too must practice what I preach.”



Champions' Cup - Group Stage

  Group C                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts   Spg  CtH  LcU  CsC
1 Spartangrad               EUR    6    4   2   0    13    6   +7    14    —   2–2  2–2  3–1
2 Centralis Heart           ETM    6    3   2   1     8    7   +1    11   0–2   —   1–1  3–2
3 Loconstead United         ETN    6    2   2   2     6    6    0     8   0–2  0–1   —   1–0
4 Cassandra City            COS    6    0   0   6     4   12   −8     0   1–2  0–1  0–2   —

Cassandra City are shockingly dismal in the Champions’ Cup, in stark contrast to their sparkling league form. All the matches in a tough Group C are close and evenly-contested, but the goals just don’t come for the Reds. At least there’s no doubt where Arturo Mancini will focus his squad’s energy in the second half of the season now.

  Group G                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts   Csb  Ewd  HzC  SMS
1 Crisisbless               NPH    6    4   1   1    15    3  +12    13    —   0–1  4–0  4–0
2 Eastweald                 COS    6    4   0   2    11    6   +5    12   0–1   —   4–1  5–0
3 Herzegovina City FC       BNJ    6    1   2   3     3   10   −7     5   1–1  0–1   —   0–0
4 San Marco Storm           PCR    6    1   1   4     5   15  −10     4   1–5  4–0  0–1   —

Eastweald have Herzegovina City’s number, dominating the Banijan side in both legs, and pick up a nice win in Nephara. It’s enough to see them carry the Cosumarite banner on in 2nd despite an ugly loss in Port Christopher.


Globe Cup - Group Stage

  Group G                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts   FlW  MCS  Csc  CfC
1 FC Fairleigh-Warburton    ETM    6    4   1   1    10    3   +7    13    —   3–0  3–0  2–0
2 Miare CosmoStars          HIN    6    3   2   1     7    6   +1    11   0–0   —   1–0  2–0
3 SC Cascadia               NFX    6    2   0   4     6    9   −3     6   3–1  0–1   —   1–2
4 Crawford City FC          COS    6    1   1   4     6   11   −5     4   0–1  3–3  1–2   —

You won’t get far in UICA if you don’t maximize your home advantage. Despite being group favorites, the Elephants get just one point in three Group G matches at Orangi Stadium. Nuff said.


Series B Champions' Cup - Group Stage

  Group F                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts   SdU  Kdk  HmS  GrZ
1 Sardin United             PAS    6    3   2   1    15    6   +9    11*   —   2–2  4–0  1–1
2 FC Kaldukosic             COS    6    3   2   1    12    9   +3    11*  1–3   —   3–1  3–2
3 Hamilton Sandstorm        ETM    6    2   0   4     7   13   −6     6   1–0  1–3   —   1–2
4 Griffin Zebras            JSY    6    1   2   3     7   13   −6     5   1–5  0–0  1–3   — 
* Sardin United ahead of FC Kaldukosic on head-to-head points

It becomes clear that Sardin United have an edge on FC Kaldukosic in quality, but fortunately, the rest of the group is another notch or two behind. The Victors rather easily join the Pasargan group-toppers in advancement, defeating the other two teams from Electrum and Jasiyun by a combined 9-4.

  Group G                        Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts   HKy  KnA  DVf  Myr
1 Herarte Kyuminato         HIN    6    4   1   1     8    5   +3    13    —   1–0  0–2  2–0
2 Keenan Athletic           COS    6    2   2   2     8    7   +1     8   2–2   —   1–1  2–0
3 Defensores de Villafuerte VLD    6    2   1   3     9    7   +2     7   0–1  2–3   —   4–1
4 SC Myrkan                 PAS    6    2   0   4     4   10   −6     6   1–2  1–0  1–0   —

Keenan Athletic march on as well, though with a little more drama, needing a win over SC Myrkan on the final matchday to leapfrog Valladar side Defensores. The Bobs went to the SBCC Final four years ago. Can they turn a mediocre group stage into another deep run?




Harlighet Ligan Matchday 15
Samaj FC 4–1 IFK Aldenskoett
Eastweald 4–2 Keenan Athletic
Klyde 1–1 Olask Islanders
FC Samotath 1–1 Goldstaff City
Crawford City FC 3–2 Helfin Fief
Real Azuris 4–4 Zakhoro Aces
Ramusok United 0–0 OAS Royal FC
Pelethas United 0–1 FC Kaldukosic
Cassandra City 1–0 Mallox

When league play returns, it’s apparent that the Hunters followed their manager’s memory-wiping advice to a T! With a full-strength team again, Samaj FC cut IFK Aldenskoett to pieces with furious vigor going forward. Rachel Del Arro and Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir are incisive and dynamic from the wings – nothing new there – but what really got the fans at Stadion Jagäre excited was the play of center forward Vesina Va’Lepeh. With her breezy hat trick, the Na’Ilee native reminded them what their team can accomplish when they have a natural finisher in the middle to compliment their attacking midfield juggernaut. Samaj were UICA regulars with VZR and Va’Lepeh (now she of 12 goals) looks like she can provide something similar again. The back line is arguably the best it’s ever been too with CBs Jakoljevic and Erakin really coming into their own and fullbacks Palmqvist and Lovelock rock-solid. That flicked Va’Lepeh finish for 3-0 tho…

The season’s first Major Ramusok Derby could’ve used some finishing like that. The Fire River Arena leg ends in a goalless stalemate with Royal’s Thomas Di Sansev fluffing his lines on a sitter three yards from goal late on. I guess that’s why he’s not a striker. Eastweald, however, are back amongst the goals in a big way at home, Mina Mordini flashing her 1013 creative form and Valence Ilya outstanding overlapping on the right, and Real Azuris also score four. The Breakers, however, did so after falling behind 4-1 themselves. Koru Özturk had himself a hell of a first half in Azuris, exposing Real’s defensive youth and inexperience. Luis Varezzi nevertheless commended his team’s commitment in gradually chipping away at the deficit. Jeremy Benedict made it 4-2 before half time, a Hidalgo Antunés curler made it 4-3 after the hour mark and Bryger Tidesson completed the comeback in stoppage time with a simple low finish after his one-two with Mbdiai Akarenaa folded the Zakhoro defense like a house of cards. “Now if we could just not give up four goals in the first half…” Varezzi chuckles to the press afterwards. To be fair, the defensive performance was much-improved after the break once Liesl Vanzanto relieved 17-year-old Olivia Haidt and Edith Tidesson stopped trying to be super-sweeper.


Harlighet Ligan Matchday 16
IFK Aldenskoett 1–0 Mallox
FC Kaldukosic 2–2 Cassandra City
OAS Royal FC 4–2 Pelethas United
Zakhoro Aces 1–1 Ramusok United
Helfin Fief 4–5 Real Azuris
Goldstaff City 4–3 Crawford City FC
Olask Islanders 2–3 FC Samotath
Keenan Athletic 2–1 Klyde
Samaj FC 1–2 Eastweald

We may have just described Samaj as “incisive”, but theirs is still no match for the incisiveness of Eastweald when the Wood Elves are truly on their game. Samaj provide stiff opposition in front of their home support, but Theresa Riether keeps verbally cracking the whip from the touchline and her side eventually break through in the second half through Fanaiyan and Amokachi, too quick and too sharp passing the ball. Va’Lepeh pulled one back for the Hunters at the end of stoppage time, but with virtually zero possession, this was never a game Samaj had any business taking anything from. Eastweald are back within reach of the UICA places as the midseason break approaches. To their delight, their neighbors and the previous champions – Mallox – are tumbling in the opposite direction. Alexander Kárpáty has cut a frustrated, isolated figure up top this season, with Stiin Siorrha’Asione in lackluster form, Jordan Emery struggling to adjust to Mallox’s set-up and little production coming from the #10 position (Cloudchaser suddenly looking old and Taka Masatoshi a little raw still). So, after another 90 minutes of attacking futility, it came as little surprise when IFK Aldenskoett’s Pralix Glasspool lept like a salmon to glance Kristian Friedmann’s stoppage time corner under the crossbar, broke the nil-nil deadlock and jumped into the supporters’ section behind the goal with green smoke bombs going off around him. IFK continue to hoodwink “better” teams on set-pieces and counters.

Further up the table, Crawford City FC have a chance to close the gap with Cassandra City dropping points in Kaldukosic, but again shoot themselves in the foot. In fact, it’s a spectacular meltdown as they watch a Coultan-inspired 3-0 lead go up in smoke in no fewer than seven minutes. Zigfield 67’, Bannion 70’, Zigfield 72’, Goldenrod 73’. 4-3 to Goldstaff City to the final whistle. “Samantha fucking Goldenrod. Good grief,” Fegelein mutters in disbelief to open her presser. Hey, that’s what derby neighbors are for! With Goldstaff City’s stature in Cosumar growing, this southwestern romp might a real rivalry to watch in coming years.


Harlighet Ligan Matchday 17
Eastweald 2–0 IFK Aldenskoett
Klyde 2–1 Samaj FC
FC Samotath 4–5 Keenan Athletic
Crawford City FC 2–3 Olask Islanders
Real Azuris 1–2 Goldstaff City
Ramusok United 0–2 Helfin Fief
Pelethas United 4–1 Zakhoro Aces
Cassandra City 1–1 OAS Royal FC
Mallox 2–0 FC Kaldukosic

Matchday 17 often takes on an odd atmosphere since the players and coaches know a full month off awaits once the final whistle blows. Some teams go lax with minds already on vacation, while others step up the intensity in hopes of moving up the midseason table. Sure enough, it’s one of those bizarre sets of scorelines on this Saturday as all the teams at the top stumble, resulting in a net effect of… well, nothing. The new FC Samotath look like the old FC Samotath again and get pulled into a nine-goal shootout with Keenan Athletic, to the delight of their more traditional goals-first supporters (even though they came out on the losing end thanks to Athletic’s dazzling Elodie Sade).

Other big teams fell back into old habits too. Mental lapses undid CCFC’s zone marking on set-pieces against Olask’s big defenders and undermined Alcouin’s brace. Real Azuris’ expansive 4-3-3 looked very susceptible to counters again, which isn’t good when you’re playing a team like Goldstaff City that loves to get out and run. Even Cassandra City needed Calogero Metz’s vintage seven-save performance to salvage a home point against rallying OAS Royal, Cautcher in excellent form to close out the first half of the season.

Gellano Fief sides Mallox and Eastweald also salvaged some pride heading into the midseason break, Eastweald now undefeated in six with a goal-hungry Fanaiyan and quickly-learning Sven Haalogalsson leading the way. Ramusok United and Zakhoro Aces… don’t. They’re bullied by Helfin Fief at home and pummeled at Pelethas, respectively.




At the midseason break, Cassandra City have raced out to such a sizable lead that it already seems unlikely that they will be caught. Even with Zeale-Riddick’s goalscoring pace slowing down to that of a normal upper-echelon striker, the Reds have kept winning with the midfield stepping up to supply goals. The other four UICA places, however, are still open for a majority of clubs if they put together a good run in the back half of the season. High-profile sides like OAS Royal and Eastweald will be eyeing FC Samotath in 3rd and hoping that their surprising success and balanced play of late has been a flash in the pan.

1014 Härlighet Ligan       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Cassandra City         17   12   4   1    48   28  +20    40
 2  Crawford City FC       17    9   3   5    48   35  +13    30
 3  FC Samotath            17    9   3   5    30   27   +3    30
 4  Real Azuris            17    7   6   4    42   38   +4    27
 5  Samaj FC               17    8   3   6    31   28   +3    27
 6  OAS Royal FC           17    7   5   5    31   25   +6    26
 7  Eastweald              17    7   5   5    39   35   +4    26
 8  Olask Islanders        17    6   6   5    37   35   +2    24
 9  Keenan Athletic        17    6   4   7    35   38   −3    22
10  Goldstaff City         17    5   6   6    38   39   −1    21
11  Mallox                 17    6   3   8    27   28   −1    21
12  Pelethas United        17    6   3   8    30   32   −2    21
13  Klyde                  17    6   3   8    28   32   −4    21
14  IFK Aldenskoett        17    6   2   9    16   23   −7    20
15  Ramusok United         17    3   9   5    34   38   −4    18
16  Helfin Fief            17    4   5   8    35   42   −7    17
17  FC Kaldukosic          17    4   4   9    26   39  −13    16
18  Zakhoro Aces           17    4   2  11    33   46  −13    14


Golden Boot Leader: 
  Vega Zeale-Riddick (20)

At the midseason break, AC Holmenkollen fans will be feeling good. Their club has sprung up into the promotion places in recent weeks, buoyed by the growth of youngsters Tilda Tidesson, Ariadne Kolomainen, Kund Borbély and, most of all, midfield maestro Gabrielo Romo, who is playing like a legitimate Silver Ball candidate. The Centus Serpents remain the outfit to catch, however, with their ironclad defense marshaled by former Premiership duo Catheline Jurist & Conan Lineker. Just below, extraterrestrial trio Fevelo Colony, Regalia City and Revanigruud Riversharks are all chasing Van Kruistum’s upstart FC Flen for the playoff place in earnest.

1014 Sekundar Ligan           Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Centus Serpents           17   11   4   2    24   11  +13    37
 2  AC Holmenkollen           17   10   5   2    39   23  +16    35
 3  FC Flen                   17   10   4   3    32   19  +13    34
 4  Regalia City              17    8   5   4    23   20   +3    29
 5  Fevelo Colony             17    8   3   6    30   23   +7    27
 6  Revanigruud Riversharks   17    8   2   7    36   33   +3    26
 7  Treftadaeth Alliance      17    6   7   4    34   33   +1    25
 8  Nomad Brotherhood FC      17    7   4   6    24   25   −1    25
 9  Stoneshore United         17    6   6   5    26   27   −1    24
10  Na'Ilee Mariners          17    7   3   7    27   29   −2    24
11  Morponte Fief             17    6   4   7    16   18   −2    22
12  IFK Sundsvall             17    5   6   6    28   30   −2    21
13  Sindo Fief                17    4   4   9    26   30   −4    16
14  Versiaville               17    3   7   7    36   44   −8    16
15  Seryddwyr Aberaeron       17    4   4   9    20   29   −9    16
16  Gwynt Tywyll              17    4   4   9    14   23   −9    16
17  Ziemelu Skaida            17    3   5   9    22   30   −8    14
18  Riverside Crew            17    3   3  11    11   21  −10    12

1014 Tredje Ligan                   Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Sontafe City                    21   12   5   4    41   23  +18    41
 2  Pardock Island                  21   11   5   5    42   26  +16    38
 3  West Gundar                     21   10   4   7    37   33   +4    34
 4  AFC Obscura 98                  21    9   6   6    42   38   +4    33
 5  West Devellin                   21   10   3   8    32   30   +2    33
 6  SC Torpedo Kejsarkona           21    9   6   6    36   39   −3    33
 7  Fort Archer FC                  21    9   5   7    39   31   +8    32
 8  Cassandra Cosmopolitan          21    9   5   7    37   36   +1    32
 9  Portsmouth FC                   21    8   7   6    29   24   +5    31
10  Pristine Forest                 21    9   4   8    32   29   +3    31
11  Otkins Numenvernia              21    8   6   7    29   27   +2    30
12  Klyde Heritage                  21    8   6   7    26   26    0    30
13  Forest Hill FC                  21    6   9   6    37   36   +1    27
14  AC Sepultura                    21    7   5   9    53   51   +2    26
15  Esterhollow Harbor              21    8   2  11    29   33   −4    26
16  White Tower FC                  21    8   2  11    33   41   −8    26
17  Brayllor Town                   21    7   4  10    23   32   −9    25
18  Tierra Interstellar Wanderers   21    7   4  10    19   28   −9    25
19  Bergtatt Isle Athletic          21    5   9   7    23   25   −2    24
20  Nuur Origins FC                 21    6   5  10    27   31   −4    23
21  Rexnor District 3               21    5   6  10    11   22  −11    21
22  Tornline                        21    4   4  13    27   43  −16    16

---

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Third Round

Cassandra Cosmopolitan (T) 4–1 Emerald Cove (L2)
Levithia Shrievenzale (L2) 2–3 Atlético Oterro (L1)
Rexnor District 7 (L2) 0–1 AC Holmenkollen (S)
Ramusok United (H) 2–1 Talmusok City (L1)
Cassandra City II (L1) 0–1 Crawford City FC (H)
Ziemelu Skaida (S) 3–1 Heofoncandel Uré (L2)
Portsmouth (T) 1–0 Nuur Origins FC (T)
Stortrommeby Town (L2) 0–2 VfL Läutenstadt (L2)
IFK Sundsvall (S) 1–1 Morponte Fief (S) (1–2 AET)
FC Arkadius (L2) 1–1 Rexnor District 2 (L2) (2–1 AET)
Pristine Forest (T) 2–0 Goldsoul FC (L2)
Rexnor District 8 (L2) 1–2 Lykathea City (L2)
FC Dynamo Kurbads (L2) 0–2 Meryuma Marshals (L1)
Bayford City (L2) 1–0 Cerulia City FC (L2)
Marshall-Blue FC (L2) 1–1 Rexnor District 3 (T) (1–1 AET) (5–4 pen.)
Pelethas United (H) 1–1 Revanigruud Riversharks (S) (3–3 AET) (7–8 pen.)
Sindo Fief (S) 1–5 Real Azuris (H)
Hagenheim South End (L1) 1–1 OAS Royal FC II (L2) (1–1 AET) (4–5 pen.)
Eastweald (H) 5–5 Forest Hill FC (T) (7–5 AET)
Wealdheim Bards (L2) 1–1 Gamma City Zakhoro (L2) (2–1 AET)
Gwynt Tywyll (S) 1–2 Klyde (H)
Larkinham Town (L1) 0–2 Regalia City (S)
Crawford City FC II (L2) 1–2 Keenan Athletic (H)
Harlegan Rovers (L2) 0–4 AFC Obscura 98 (T)
Menoptera United (L2) 0–2 SC Cirith 01 (L2)
Riverside Crew (S) 2–0 Yambridge City (L1)
FC Samotath (H) 3–3 Club Toftir (L1) (3–3 AET) (4–2 pen.)
Scarborough (L2) 3–3 Drahva United (L1) (3–4 AET)
Everlong FC (L1) 0–0 Nexus Magens FC (L2) (1–0 AET)
Cassandra City (H) 4–2 OAS Royal FC (H)
Mallox II (L2) 0–6 Mallox (H)
Volmachtia Kaldukosic (L1) 1–3 Hvalsey 08 (L1)

Pelethas United are having a bit of a mediocre season. Some highs, mainly against the weaker sides, but unable to consistently hang with the big boys. Just when their fans started to wander if they should forget about the league and cast their hope in a cup run.... this happened. Losing to the Revanigruud Riversharks isn't ignominious. They very well might be in the HL next season. It's the way they went out. Giving up an 81st minute equalizer in regular time when advancement seemed so close. Taking the lead TWICE in extra time and both times surrendering further equalizers. And finally, Gudrun Crowley putting the decisive penalty wide left despite being the Miners' guiding light throughout the 120 minutes. Crushing stuff. In other noteworthy matches, Mallox get a bye in the form of their own sacrificial lamb reserve team and take them apart 6-0 (lol, shouldn't there be a rule against this?) and Cassandra City come up against OAS Royal FC for a real Third Round heavyweight bout. But Vega Zeale-Riddick scores a hat trick to dump the Royals out like any 'ole Conference side.


Fourth Round

Cassandra Cosmopolitan (T) 1–1 Atlético Oterro (L1) (1–1 AET) (4–5 pen.)
AC Holmenkollen (S) 0–3 Ramusok United (H)
Crawford City FC (H) 3–0 Ziemelu Skaida (S)
Portsmouth (T) 0–0 VfL Läutenstadt (L2) (0–0 AET) (8–7 pen.)
Morponte Fief (S) 0–1 FC Arkadius (L2)
Pristine Forest (T) 0–1 Lykathea City (L2)
Meryuma Marshals (L1) 1–2 Bayford City (L2)
Marshall-Blue FC (L2) 0–1 Revanigruud Riversharks (S)
Real Azuris (H) 9–1 OAS Royal FC II (L2)
Eastweald (H) 5–1 Wealdheim Bards (L2)
Klyde (H) 3–1 Regalia City (S)
Keenan Athletic (H) 4–3 AFC Obscura 98 (T)
SC Cirith 01 (L2) 0–1 Riverside Crew (S)
FC Samotath (H) 5–1 Drahva United (L1)
Everlong FC (L1) 0–5 Cassandra City (H)
Mallox (H) 6–0 Hvalsey 08 (L1)

As the field really starts to narrow, there are some notable victories by Lägre Ligen sides against Sekundar and Tredje Ligan opposition. Cup-ambitious Cassandra Cosmopolitan, Pristine Forest and even Morponte Fief all get a nasty surprise. Other lower league clubs, however, provide the usual fodder to HL titans. Real Azuris win 9-1, Mallox win 6-0 and Eastweald and FC Samotath win 5-1, all with moderately rotated teams. The highlight of the round is a Ramusok derby between Ramusok United and promotion favorites AC Holmenkollen, but the Blues remind their suburban little brothers that they have a ways to go before rejoining the club of Cosumar's elite. Ivo Jago, Keohane and Lucien Marmor-Lavie all get on the scoresheet as Adrián Del Toro works the pockets of space like a wizard and Dustin Bachelor and Tajo Carr-Ponce repeatedly foil the opposite efforts of Holmenkollen star Romo.

[Cosumar]

Cygnus Cup First Round
Real Azuris 2-0 Anfanhar FC (CMT)
Anfanhar FC 1-1 Real Azuris
Real Azuris advance 3-1 on aggregate

Cygnus Cup Round of 16
Laketown FC (TAE) 0-1 Real Azuris
Real Azuris 1-0 Laketown FC
Real Azuris advance 2-0 on aggregate

Real Azuris aren’t flashy in the early stages of the Cygnus Cup, but a barebones roster (the big-name players allowed to continue their vacations) does a really good job of taking care of business. Only one goal allowed across the four fixtures. It’s a nice boost of confidence for a young defense (including Alfred and Edith Tidesson, both present) who have had a few bumps in the road this season.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 18
IFK Aldenskoett 0–4 FC Kaldukosic
Mallox 2–2 OAS Royal FC
Cassandra City 1–1 Zakhoro Aces
Pelethas United 0–3 Helfin Fief
Ramusok United 0–2 Goldstaff City
Real Azuris 2–1 Olask Islanders
Crawford City FC 1–0 Keenan Athletic
FC Samotath 4–3 Samaj FC
Klyde 1–1 Eastweald

Over the midseason break, with nothing better for pundits to discuss, rumors swirl like the Eye of Jupiter. One such rumor this year is that 78-year-old legend Jock Sonny might abandon the Ramusok United project – so promising at the start of the season – and retire before its conclusion. He dispelled such notions, of course, but looked weary and genuinely disheartened after a 2-0 loss to Goldstaff City to resume the campaign.

Another point of debate over the break was whether FC Samotath are really contenders (as their 3rd place status would indicate) or pretenders (as their small GD would indicate). Well, right out the gate after a month off is a chance for Samotath to answer those questions. And they aswer them in earnest in a jostle for UICA position with Samaj, getting goals from seemingly all of their main attacking players in a 4-3 win. Samo were always leading in this one, but you’d like to see them keep the door closed better, like they were doing before the break.

OAS Royal might want to get some lessons in closing out matches too. They’re in control throughout in Mallox (both on the scoreboard and on the pitch), but nevertheless allow the Tigers to come back from 2-0, teenage striker Godfred Hjelmgaard with an 88th minute equalizer off bench. But there might not have been a bigger equalizer than the one Temuge scored for the Aces in Cassandra. It was a simple side-footed finish in the six-yard box, but it could indicate signs of life for the relegation-threatened club. Everyone knows how impossible points have been to come by up there this year for even the best teams. Chrysanthe Scafidis too thought she had such a statement equalizer for the Islanders in Azuris, drifting to the back post and nodding home Ilana Way’s cross from the touchline in the 89th minute to make it 1-1, but Real left back Biondi stunningly hit back from long range in the 91st! Consider that the hosts validating the title push talking points they peddled over the break. It was a good day for the Arrowsword family – Andrew hit the opener in that match, and Sarah bundled home the lone goal of Crawford City FC’s win.

Valladar striker Adrien Borges also deserves a shout for his hat trick that saw Helfin Fief pick up a big three points down south in Pelethas. They needed that affirming start to the second half of the season.


Cygnus Cup Quarterfinals, First Leg
Olympia FC (EFL) 1-0 Real Azuris

Real love the Cup Winners’ Cup, having featured in two of the last four finals, but their charm might be wearing off this season. A 1-0 defeat in Eastfield Lodge isn’t insurmountable by any means, but an away goal would’ve been really nice to have. They had a great chance to grab one late on a breakaway with numbers, but Hidalgo Antúnes uncharacteristically laid the ball out too far in front of Bryger Tidesson on his right. The moment they had been toiling for 90 minutes for went to waste and Andrew Arrowsword, wide open on the other side, kicked the goalpost in frustration upon reaching it. Now, only a two-goal win at home will clinch advancement.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 19
Klyde 3–4 IFK Aldenskoett
Eastweald 7–2 FC Samotath
Samaj FC 2–1 Crawford City FC
Keenan Athletic 1–3 Real Azuris
Olask Islanders 1–2 Ramusok United
Goldstaff City 1–2 Pelethas United
Helfin Fief 1–4 Cassandra City
Zakhoro Aces 2–2 Mallox
OAS Royal FC 3–5 FC Kaldukosic

There’s the Samotath that we all know and love! With braces from Mordini and Amokachi against Samo, Eastweald have arrived back in the top five, their title hangover having fully worn off over the break. Conceding seven to an attacking juggernaut like Eastweald is somewhat excusable, but what isn’t is losing 4-3 at home to IFK Aldenskoett. *cough* Klyde FC *cough*. Not even another late goal from super-sub Cathal Turner could rally the purple-and-turquoise this time.

Who did rally? Samaj, in a big way. Facing consecutive losses to open the new season, down 1-0 at half time, the Hunters refused to turn into the hunted against Crawford. A couple smart Johannes Lundblade adjustments – Rasunda Vanderlei playing further up the pitch – and an indomitable energy saw Elias Møller score in the 65th minute and then Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir in the fifth of six minutes of stoppage time. The way her first touch took Vanderlei’s skipping pass in stride and put her in perfect position to beat Hansi Weschler was gorgeous technique. Nothing better than when pure skill like that gets the reaction it deserves from the crowd! The Samaji didn’t stop partying after Fjóla’s winner ‘til the early morn.

Aside from being an unapologetic goalfest with no defense, FC Kal @ OAS is an interesting study. Kaldukosic have returned from vacation with a vengeance, winning with five goals (Silver Boot holder Kajaurre Nisa really taking to the top flight) after doing so with four last week. OAS Royal, by contrast, seem to have lost something with the departure of Sur Arora. It’s hard to put a finger on it. Their swagger? They’re still a capable side, but Denhardt’s Royal just don’t quite glimmer with the same intent in each movement and sequence. Don’t worry, it’s not all grey clouds in the capital though. United bounce back from last week’s dud with another late William Stone goal (I swear, he only scores in the final 15) to win 2-1 on Olask Isle.

In other news, Real Azuris school the team that aped their tactics with Hidalgo Antúnes continuing to come into his own as a star this season, and Helfin Fief try their damndest against the runaway leaders but simply have no answer for Bellerophon Serafino in midfield.



Cygnus Cup Quarterfinals, Second Leg
Real Azuris 2-0 Olympia FC
Real Azuris advance 2-1 on aggregate

For most of the match, it looks for sure like we’re heading to extra time with Andrew Arrowsword’s 25th minute strike duplicating the 1-0 victory Olympia earned in the first leg. The play is largely slow and methodical by Azurian standards and visitors Olympia are actually the ones pushing forward for significant stretches of the second half. But, to the surprise of the scattered weekday-night crowd at MasseMord Stadium, the Breakers got the 2-0 result they needed in the 90th minute. The goalkeeper, beat down the middle, should’ve done better than to throw a single hand halfheartedly at the ball, but Apox d-mid Wizzard Mormentor still did really well to chest Sandra Sybill’s deflected cross down at the top of the box and lash it hard towards goal on the half-volley. Maybe Real Azuris will get their third Cygnus Cup Final. One more opponent stands in their way.




Harlighet Ligan Matchday 20
IFK Aldenskoett 5–1 OAS Royal FC
FC Kaldukosic 0–0 Zakhoro Aces
Mallox 6–3 Helfin Fief
Cassandra City 4–3 Goldstaff City
Pelethas United 1–1 Olask Islanders
Ramusok United 4–2 Keenan Athletic
Real Azuris 2–1 Samaj FC
Crawford City FC 2–3 Eastweald
FC Samotath 1–1 Klyde

OAS Royal make Klyde look not so foolish for last week’s scoreline. They concede five to IFK Aldenskoett. Did the Eagles make a new signing or something? Nope. The only difference is that Declan Smith has suddenly started banging in goals. A hat trick to scorch Royal today and five in his last two games… maybe there’s something legitimate to this hot streak. Did the Ethane international train with Zeale-Riddick over the break? Alexander Kárpáty also scores his first hat trick of the season (one with the left, one with the right and one with his… pec?) in a match full of great striker play against Aron Riise & Helfin Fief. This time his supporting cast actually steps up to help though, Jordan Emery scoring just his second goal of the campaign and Nils Vanderpool tallying in his first start of the year in place of Stiin Siorrha’Asione, sulking on the bench.

There’s also some late fireworks down in Pelethas between two teams tied on points in midtable. It’s 0-0 when nine minutes of stoppage time are added. Scafidis make it 1-0 to Olask with a first-time running finish from near the penalty spot mere seconds after the time is put up, but Charlie Alotic converts a penalty for the Miners in the 94th. 1-1, they remain tied on points. To add injury to insult, Islanders playmaker Jade Irwin is stretchered off with a nasty looking knee injury (ACL is the immediate fear) before the nine minutes of added time come to their merciful end. Finally, there’s a skirmish between two teams trying to grasp at their fast-fading title hopes (Crawford City-Eastweald). The first half is a fruitless midfield tussle as these two great midfields struggle to gain the upper hand, but the second half is a different story entirely. CCFC start to get tired of chasing Eastweald’s short, tidy passes and the Elves explode for three goals in the 73rd, 79th and 83rd minutes, Somuele der Pros a key part of each build-up. Congrats Eastweald, your title hopes are like 0.02% greater now?



AOCL Group Stage

P Group D                   Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts                      
1 AC Izotz Zubia              6   5  1  0   15   5 +10   16    —   3–1  3–1  2–0
2 Eastweald                   6   3  1  2   14  14   0   10   1–3   —   5–3  1–0
3 Mâ Âlâmëómë                 6   2  1  3   14  16  −2    7   0–0  4–5   —   3–2
4 Likewell Kirk               6   0  1  5    6  14  −8    1   2–4  1–1  1–3   —

This Atlantian champions’ group will be remembered for the epic battles Eastweald had with Mâ Âlâmëómë. At Old Weldenskirgen, Penumbra Amokachi was the woman of the night as her hat trick rallied Eastweald to a statement 5-3 victory despite a couple Anthony Townsend bangers on the other side. The two high-powered attacks picked up right where they left off in the return leg in Farfadillis. This game was defined by a fascinating battle in the middle of the park between the two chief creators, Somuele der Pros for Eastweald and Camila Soria Luna for the Rulandese. In the end, Der Pros was triumphant in his first return to his homeland since signing in Cosumar, scoring a sweeping shot off a trailing run into the box and threading the needle for Eva Velasquez and Amokachi’s goals. Eastweald won this match 5-4, bringing the total between the two heavyweights to 10-7 in this group stage. As a result of the two resounding wins, Eastweald were able to advance behind dominant Zozi.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 21
FC Samotath 2–1 IFK Aldenskoett
Klyde 1–0 Crawford City FC
Eastweald 2–3 Real Azuris
Samaj FC 0–0 Ramusok United
Keenan Athletic 1–0 Pelethas United
Olask Islanders 1–2 Cassandra City
Goldstaff City 0–2 Mallox
Helfin Fief 1–0 FC Kaldukosic
Zakhoro Aces 3–5 OAS Royal FC

#DenhardtOut became a trending hashtag in the Royal District for the first time last week after OAS’s third consecutive debacle since the break, but they responded to the criticism in Zakhoro. Instead of conceding five to another mediocre side, the royal Whites scored five of their own. The central midfield duo of Drover and Marchant was excellent, treating the Aces like traffic cones, and it was 4-0 by half time with goals from Corey Simmons III, Zöe Aedelbrandt, Thør Moller and Drover herself. The Aces gave Zapt Park something to cheer for with a couple late consolations, but this thing was buried at 5-1 as late as the 84th minute. Syl Denhardt gives a self-satisfied smirk and replies “No comment” when asked about the one travelling OAS Royal devotee who flaunted a “Bring Arora Back” shirt directly behind his bench and, embarrassed, turned it inside-out after 3-0.

Stiin Siorrha’Asione also got to thumb his nose at his critics this week. His high-profile exclusion from the 18 last week created a storm of controversy, but the bold move by Kennedy Kopenhaver had the desired effect. The slumping attacker seemed reinvigorated as he subbed on in the 73rd minute and scored an absolutely sublime goal – a wickedly curved shot to the top corner from 28 yards – to silence Goldstaff’s Bostitch Lane. “Every now and then a man needs a week off to rest at home with his flamingos,” Siorrha’Asione explained with a shrug.

Helfin Fief does’t have flamingos (unless a new desert-dwelling species has been discovered), but it has one Semyon Yucob and – this week – that was enough to land the Protons the first massive relegation six-pointer of the season against FC Kaldukosic. They might want to invest in some flamingoes though. It’s pretty tight down there. And the small-statured Yucob won’t always be able catch stranded keepers out with diving headers.

With Crawford City FC losing again at The Klyde Sportsplex (wait, when did Klyde get back to the top half??) and Real Azuris victorious at Old Weldenskirgen (Antúnes striking twice in the same minute) despite Eastweald’s crisp form, it is the Azurians who have separated themselves as the Fiefdom’s best chance of catching Cassandra City. But City still have just the one loss on the season and continue to win in difficult locales such as Olask Isle, so even that seems pretty unlikely. This week, it was Ace Newman’s poked finish after a nice team build-up that put the Reds in the win column.


AOCL Quarterfinals, First Leg
Eastweald 2-1 Carter FC (JSY)

Some tired legs for Eastweald in this one, understandably. Michael Sorenson gives them an early lead in the 7th minute, but Carter FC equalize immediately after the restart and appear to be wresting control away from slightly off-the-pace Eastweald as it proceeds. But the insertion of rising star Jagoda Kovacevic after the hour mark turns the tide back in the Wood Elves’ favor. The Pasargan striker grabs the first leg winner in the 83rd minute with her outstretched boot getting on the end of Fanaiyan’s cross and redirecting it ever so subtedly.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 22
IFK Aldenskoett 2–3 Zakhoro Aces
OAS Royal FC 2–1 Helfin Fief
FC Kaldukosic 0–1 Goldstaff City
Mallox 2–0 Olask Islanders
Cassandra City 3–0 Keenan Athletic
Pelethas United 1–0 Samaj FC
Ramusok United 0–2 Eastweald
Real Azuris 5–4 Klyde
Crawford City FC 4–4 FC Samotath

It’s a highly-anticipated Klyde Isle Derby that all the footie fans have circled on their calendar this week, with both the northerners and southerners in good form and the latter (Azuris) needing every possible point to keep some semblance of pressure on Cassandra City. But, instead, it’s Klyde FC applying the pressure at outset. Just seconds into the game, Griffin Riordan latches onto a Micke Kvalderkorr feed bent gorgeously around the defense from the right, but she’s actually surprised that it reaches her and is only able to test Edith Tidesson with a tame effort after finally getting the ball out from underfoot. The Brenecian would make quick amends, however, karate-kicking Ozaria Gandhi’s chipped cross home at the back post in the 5th minute. Fiery start to a fiery derby! The sea of Azuris jerseys at MasseMord grew quieter still when Cathal Turner – the teenager now a semi regular starter alongside Riordan – stabbed home a deflected cutback to make it 2-0 in the 30th minute. Immediately thereafter, Real Azuris started to take back control of the match. From the stroke of half time to the first 25 minutes of the second half, they would score one… two… three… four… FIVE unanswered goals. Amidst the onslaught, Andrew Arrowsword had himself a brace and co-stars Bryger Tidesson and Hidalgo Antúnes each had themselves a goal and an assist. With the match having gone from 2-0 to 5-2 and Blinne Va’Tuaras looking glum slumped in his seat, even the most ardent of Klyde supporters could be forgiven for thinking Real Azuris had won. And well, they did win. But it wasn’t as over as it seemed. Cathal Turner has been a super-super-sub this season, and it turns out the lad can work his late magic even when he’s been on the pitch the whole time. He got Va’Tuaras back off the bench with a solo breakaway goal in the 73rd minute after intercepting a lackadaisacal Mormentor pass, and trimmed the lead to 5-4 at the beginning of stoppage time with a sweet side-footed finish off a lay-off from Riordan. Real Azuris would still get the win, but they won’t make the mistake of ever counting their purple rivals down for the count ever again. At least not while young Mr. Turner is still on the team.



AOCL Quarterfinals, Second Leg
Carter FC 2-3 Eastweald
Eastweald advance 5-3 on aggregate

The AOCL action really isn’t disappointing this season! Eastweald seemed to be packing their bags for the semis when Mina Mordini curled a sweet left-footed free kick in off the post to make it 3-1 on aggregate, but Carter FC once again made a fast start to the second half, converting a penalty and benefiting from an Aleksi Soderlund own goal in the span of five minutes to bring the two sides level. To the dismay of the fans in Jasiyun, however, the equilibrium did not last long. Amokachi brought it crashing back down with a blazing run and finish in the 54th minute (2-2 on the day, 4-3 on aggregate). Sven Haalogalsson slammed the book shut late on with a marauding run and finish that left defenders on the ground with broken ankles in his wake.




Harlighet Ligan Matchday 23
Crawford City FC 5–0 IFK Aldenskoett
FC Samotath 2–2 Real Azuris
Klyde 1–1 Ramusok United
Eastweald 2–2 Pelethas United
Samaj FC 3–4 Cassandra City
Keenan Athletic 1–2 Mallox
Olask Islanders 2–1 FC Kaldukosic
Goldstaff City 2–1 OAS Royal FC
Helfin Fief 0–2 Zakhoro Aces

The Zakhoro Aces have breathed new life into their survival hopes over their last two games. It was Makenna Scripps with the brace last week and this time it’s the good ‘ole Iskandervalian Kurtis Samarqand on the double to take down Helfin Fief at Scandrick’s Stadium and draw level with FC Kaldukosic in the playoff place. Credit is also due to the Aces’ back line. They’ve had an up-and-down year (mostly down), but Camara, Noff and Hobbs were disciplined and strong this week, shutting out Yucob, Riise and Borges. Sinistar was also a sinister sight for Helfin Fief’s talented attackers. The spindly goalkeeper recorded five very big saves to preserve the rare Zakhoro clean sheet.

Meanwhile, the main teams chasing Cassandra City just keep getting in each others’ damn way. More mutually dissatisfying draws. Samotath and Crawford last week, Samotath and Azuris this week. Did Cassandra City pay Simon Ardley to let in Tidesson’s soft 82nd minute equalizer? He had to dive to get out of its way. City, for their part, are given a run for their money at Stadion Jägare. Samaj FC thought they were on their way to a famous – well, at least a draw – when forgotten man Adnan Jurevicius mashed his forehead to Rachel Del Arro’s cross at point-blank in the 67th minute to make it 2-2. Vega Zeale-Riddick reproduced a nearly identical goal of her own two minutes later, however, and after another exchange of dramatics, Cassandra City walked out 4-3 winners on Jason Goulding’s free kick. Poor Hunters. They’ve had a hard go of it since the break. They were in such good form before the month off, but….

Mallox, on the other hand, have been stringing together some nice results since coming back, rebounding into the UICA race with increased contributions all across the pitch, most notably wingers Siorrha’Asione and Emery. Goldstaff City also picked up a big win this week, exploiting OAS Royal’s gaps in the back (both physical and mental) with long ball after long ball up to Aelfwynn Bannion, two of which he converted. Diego Bandos is proving himself to be a savvy manager, guiding a squad some would describe as patchwork up to the top half.



Champions' Cup Round of 16, First Leg
Eastweald 0-1 Revolutionaries (EUR)

Heeeere we go, the big stage. Unfortunately, after 90 minutes, Eastweald’s most notable highlight is a diving save Esteban Hernandez made on Jason Beltran. The one goal? The time he wasn’t able to stop Beltran.


Series B Champions' Cup Round of 16, First Leg
FC Kaldukosic 2-0 Carsby (EUR)
Keenan Athletic 3-2 Mt Ceabring Thunder (TAE)

A more positive showing for the HL in the SBCC (as has become tradition). Bengochea and Nisa ensure that there won’t be two Euran wins on Cosumarite soil on the day, while Keenan Athletic come back from 2-1 down late to defeat Mt. Ceabring, Elodie Sade the heroine but Häkon Fen the unsung Man of the Match for his pinpoint passing.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 24
IFK Aldenskoett 4–3 Helfin Fief
Zakhoro Aces 3–2 Goldstaff City
OAS Royal FC 2–0 Olask Islanders
FC Kaldukosic 0–0 Keenan Athletic
Mallox 3–2 Samaj FC
Cassandra City 2–1 Eastweald
Pelethas United 0–1 Klyde
Ramusok United 2–1 FC Samotath
Real Azuris 2–5 Crawford City FC

Eastweald’s visit to The Amphitheatre gets hyped because, let’s face it, every fandom just wants to see someone take down Cassandra City at this point, even if it has to be the insufferable East Wealders. It is a good match – but the end result is another one in the win column for Arturo Mancini. This time via an 84th minute winner in which Zeale-Riddick collided violently with Brevin Scott to win the decisive header off Ursula Rowan's chipped ball in. VZR may miss the next match with concussion symptoms. But Cassandra City remain undefeated at home. They’re also well on-pace for the best season (by points) in Härlighet Ligan history. Remarkable. With history on the line, will they be able to keep performing as the pressure thickens?

The pressure of a relegation fight has only been good for the Aces, bringing out the dangerous version of them some thought we’d see from the beginning. Their two-game winning streak and five-game unbeaten continued against their neighbors downstream along the Everlong River, Goldstaff City. The young Eastfielder, Scripps, has been electric since the break and chalked up another goal and assist against the Guardians, impressive considering she was going directly up against another touted youth - Cosumar wingback Skaldir Tibrewal. It was hard-running #6 Ksenia Winterseer, however, who was the unlikely home hero when she whacked a grass-cutter past Ravnajuv from the top of the box to win it deep in stoppage time. Elsewhere, mercurial Helfin Fief are kicked while already down, robbed of a point by a fortuitous Nicólo Bassi set-piece goal for IFK in the 88th minute. The bottom of the table is really tightening up…

Crawford City FC too unleash a bloodcurdling cry heard ‘round the Fiefdom that they’re not throwing in the towel yet on their ambitions. Azuris is a very difficult place to assert yourself as a team, but Rusalka Klein and Jennifer Farrow dominate the midfield and it’s almost shocking how easily they carve open Azuris for pretty much the whole 90 minutes. They did the same thing last week against Aldenskoett, making it 10 goals in two matches (seven between Alcouin and Stabb). Amethyst Fegelein looks both pleased and defiant on the touchline and is explicit post-match that CCFC are going all-in for the second Champions’ Cup place.



Champions' Cup Round of 16, Second Leg
Revolutionaries 1-1 Eastweald
Eastweald eliminated 2-1 on aggregate

Eastweald quietly go out of the Champions’ Cup to focus on their upcoming AOCL semifinal. That’s their best bet at a trophy this seaosn. Revolutionaries take it to 2-0 on aggregate in the 8th minute and Eastweald’s tiki-taka lacks the urgency to ever convince of a real comeback effort despite Sol Myren pulling one back in the first half.


Series B Champions' Cup Round of 16, Second Leg
Carsby 2-0 (0-2 pen.) FC Kaldukosic
FC Kaldukosic advance 2-2 on aggregate after penalties

Mt Ceabring Thunder 1-1 Keenan Athletic
Keenan Athletic advance 4-3 on aggregate

Trouble in Eura for FC Kaldukosic as the reigning Silver League champions switch on another gear in front of their home fans. It’s all the Victors can do to cling onto a 2-0 defeat to force extra time and hold on from there to see out penalties. Luckily, once there, the experience of former Ceni international goalkeeper Ael Koron shines through. He doesn’t let in a single Carsby penalty and he’s pretty damn pumped about it! Keenan Athletic do just enough in Taeshan to float on to the quarterfinals with minimal drama.



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 25
Real Azuris 3–1 IFK Aldenskoett
Crawford City FC 0–1 Ramusok United
FC Samotath 1–1 Pelethas United
Klyde 1–1 Cassandra City
Eastweald 1–2 Mallox
Samaj FC 0–1 FC Kaldukosic
Keenan Athletic 1–3 OAS Royal FC
Olask Islanders 2–2 Zakhoro Aces
Goldstaff City 3–1 Helfin Fief

…And then CCFC follow up their cry of defiance with a soulless performance at home against Ramusok United. Sums up CCFC’s season. Often brilliant, but disappearing when most needed.

Mallox are ON FIRE and deal enemies Eastweald an uppercut to the bloody-nose in the second leg of the Weald Classic. It’s revenge for the 2-0 home loss they took in the first leg, and you’d always rather win the second one than the first right? Tidy midfielder Karlus Sjunitsson, who rarely gets forward, scored his first HL goal for Mallox in the 7th minute to put a damper on the chorus of “Ode to the Elves” that was being sung, and Alexander Kárpáty stamped his mark on the derby with a great trap, turn and strike in close quarters from the left in the 19th minute, showing off his strength. 2-0 to Mallox. Hand a Kopenhaver defense a lead like that, and they’re like a dog with a ribeye steak. They’ll rarely relinquish it. The result knocks Eastweald back out of the UICA zone and moves Mallox up to 3rd, their highest place in the table since they were champions two seasons ago, a tremendous achievement considering where they were at the midseason break.

FC Kaldukosic haul themselves up out of the danger zone on an absolute wonder-goal by underappreciated Hinodejin international Yuri Hieri (possibly the goal of the season for the incredible amount of bend the midfielder produced hitting it on the run-up, and the technique to keep it so low over 32 yards). Real Azuris suddenly turned a numbing home draw with IFK Aldenskoett into a resounding 3-1 win with 87th and 94th minute goals from Arrowsword and elder statesman Adrian Lindberg, while Koru Özturk singlehandedly brought the Aces back from 2-0 down in Olask (earning and scoring two penalites) and Bannion feasted upon Helfin Fief’s young central defense to continue Goldstaff City’s surge up the table (and Fief’s fall).



Harlighet Ligan Matchday 26
IFK Aldenskoett 1–1 Goldstaff City
Helfin Fief 1–3 Olask Islanders
Zakhoro Aces 4–2 Keenan Athletic
OAS Royal FC 0–1 Samaj FC
FC Kaldukosic 1–0 Eastweald
Mallox 3–1 Klyde
Cassandra City 1–0 FC Samotath
Pelethas United 0–2 Crawford City FC
Ramusok United 1–0 Real Azuris

Yes, Helfin Fief and Keenan Athletic have sunk to the bottom since the midseason break. It sucks because both have some fantastic quality going forward that deserve to be challenging for things, but neither can defend for their lives. You have to have both to survive in the HL nowadays. Against a still-Irwinless Islanders, Fief concede a soft set-piece goal to Clement Bourass, allow a right back (Daniel Baker) to run through the box and score, and fail to even attempt to close down Olask’s best shooter from distance (Ilana Way, who scores, of course). Borges and Hawutu Nobela link up for a nice goal for Helfin Fief, but it’s not enough. Keenan Athletic are just a disorganized mess in Zakhoro, clearly affected by the noise of intimate Zapt Park (Samarqand and Scripps teaming up again!). FC Kaldukosic have learned what their fellow promoted side haven’t. They prioritized defense in the transfer window with signings like Rathskeller, Koehler and Helbro and have tightened the defensive screws even more in the second half of the season. Today’s clean sheet against Eastweald was case-in-point, rightfully earning the commendation of pundits, especially after Sekundar Ligan wing staple Antra Teika finally scored a feelgood first HL goal to win it for the Leviathan Arena crowd. FC Kal look likely to stay up. If they can keep this up.

VZR gets revenge on the only team to beat her Cassandra City this season, downing Samotath with an 8th minute bullet header. Calogero Metz does the rest, culminating with a jaw-dropping triple save on Silvestri, Exarchopolous and Silvestri again in the 63rd minute. Ramusok United pick up another handy win as they quietly edge back up the table (Kurt Wolff losing track of Wedderburn’s run off his back shoulder in the 55th minute) and Elias Møller’s Samaj FC get the better of Thor Møller’s OAS Royal because the former’s borderline-offside goal was allowed by the linesman and the latter’s wasn’t. But both Møllers stole the show and are having career seasons, no doubt.




Cassandra City are already really close to clinching the title. They could do it in two weeks, with well over a month to spare. How the hell did this happen? No matter. They’re going for the points record, which stands at 76 by Real Azuris in 1010. Zeale-Riddick also only needs five goals in the last eight matches (certainly doable at her pace) to equal her own goals record of 32 set that same year with Samaj FC. Behind the record-shattering Reds, it’s gonna be a bloodbath for 2nd now that Cosumar’s Champions’ Cup allotment has been reduced from four teams down to two. Real Azuris? Mallox? CCFC? The fifth and final UICA place also looks to be tightly contested between surprise package FC Samotath, Eastweald and OAS Royal.

Almost any club in the bottom half could still find themselves in the 16th place relegation playoff spot. Two points separate 11th – 16th. That’s scary. Don’t write Helfin Fief or Keenan Athletic off yet either. They have the attacking pieces to catch fire and save themselves.

1014 Härlighet Ligan     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Cassandra City         26   19   6   1    70   39  +31    63
 2  Real Azuris            26   13   7   6    64   56   +8    46
 3  Mallox                 26   13   5   8    51   40  +11    44
 4  Crawford City FC       26   13   4   9    68   48  +20    43
 5  FC Samotath            26   11   7   8    47   49   −2    40
 6  OAS Royal FC           26   11   6   9    50   45   +5    39
 7  Eastweald              26   10   7   9    58   50   +8    37
 8  Ramusok United         26    8  11   7    45   47   −2    35
 9  Goldstaff City         26    9   7  10    53   53    0    34
10  Samaj FC               26   10   4  12    43   44   −1    34
11  Olask Islanders        26    8   8  10    48   50   −2    32
12  Klyde                  26    8   7  11    42   48   −6    31
13  Pelethas United        26    8   6  12    37   44   −7    30
14  FC Kaldukosic          26    8   6  12    38   46   −8    30
15  Zakhoro Aces           26    8   6  12    53   62   −9    30
16  IFK Aldenskoett        26    9   3  14    34   48  −14    30
17  Keenan Athletic        26    7   5  14    43   58  −15    26
18  Helfin Fief            26    6   5  15    49   66  −17    23


Golden Boot Leader: 
  Vega Zeale-Riddick (27)

AC Holmenkollen don’t miss a beat over the break, and immediately resume catching and surpassing the defensive Serpents atop the table. The Cedars have been the clear class of the division. At the moment, it looks like two of Serpents, Regalia and Flen will have the chance to join them in promotion. Regalia City would be the second extraterrestrial-based club to make the jump, and would be a MUCH more enjoyable road visit than Fevelo. Most HL fandoms are rooting for Regalia City just so they’ll have an excuse to visit the wondrous oceanic planet. IFK Sundsvall continue to be a heartwarming story too, nestling into midtable despite playing Lägre Ligan football two years ago.

1014 Sekundar Ligan         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  AC Holmenkollen           26   16   5   5    61   37  +24    53
 2  Centus Serpents           26   14   7   5    28   18  +10    49
 3  Regalia City              26   14   6   6    49   35  +14    48
 4  FC Flen                   26   14   6   6    47   35  +12    48
 5  Fevelo Colony             26   13   4   9    45   35  +10    43
 6  Treftadaeth Alliance      26   11   9   6    53   48   +5    42
 7  Stoneshore United         26   10   9   7    48   43   +5    39
 8  Na'Ilee Mariners          26   11   4  11    41   48   −7    37
 9  IFK Sundsvall             26   10   6  10    43   45   −2    36
10  Morponte Fief             26   10   6  10    22   28   −6    36
11  Nomad Brotherhood FC      26   10   5  11    29   35   −6    35
12  Revanigruud Riversharks   26    8   5  13    51   55   −4    29
13  Versiaville               26    7   8  11    53   63  −10    29
14  Ziemelu Skaida            26    7   7  12    36   42   −6    28
15  Gwynt Tywyll              26    7   4  15    24   35  −11    25
16  Riverside Crew            26    6   6  14    23   31   −8    24
17  Sindo Fief                26    5   8  13    35   43   −8    23
18  Seryddwyr Aberaeron       26    6   5  15    32   44  −12    23

Sontafe City have proven that they were no early-season wonder due to fade, as many assumed. The season is three-quarters gone and they’ve yet to be dethroned from the top of the table. They aren’t a team with a ton of individual skill, but they just work really well as a unit. They’re well-drilled and know how to win football games. In 2nd, Pardock Island are hoping to ride the form of star striker Ann Reus back up to Sekundar Ligan. West Devellin and West Gundar have fallen off dramatically, on the other hand, but Rexnor District 3 are the biggest disappointments. The flagship Rexnori side look likley for relegation despite ample investment from the ICMI Corporation and a big transfer window.

1014 Tredje Ligan              Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Sontafe City                    32   19   5   8    62   36  +26    62
 2  Pardock Island                  32   17   8   7    62   40  +22    59
 3  Cassandra Cosmopolitan          32   16   8   8    62   51  +11    56
 4  Fort Archer FC                  32   15   9   8    62   46  +16    54
 5  Pristine Forest                 32   16   6  10    46   36  +10    54
 6  AFC Obscura 98                  32   14   9   9    58   51   +7    51
 7  Otkins Numenvernia              32   13   9  10    44   37   +7    48
 8  Klyde Heritage                  32   12  10  10    39   37   +2    46
 9  SC Torpedo Kejsarkona           32   13   7  12    55   64   −9    46
10  Nuur Origins FC                 32   12   9  11    49   42   +7    45
11  West Gundar                     32   12   8  12    50   53   −3    44
12  AC Sepultura                    32   12   7  13    79   72   +7    43
13  White Tower FC                  32   12   6  14    42   48   −6    42
14  Bergtatt Isle Athletic          32   10  11  11    44   45   −1    41
15  Portsmouth FC                   32   10  10  12    38   38    0    40
16  West Devellin                   32   10   9  13    50   55   −5    39
17  Forest Hill FC                  32    7  15  10    46   52   −6    36
18  Brayllor Town                   32    9   9  14    42   52  −10    36
19  Esterhollow Harbor              32   10   3  19    39   54  −15    33
20  Rexnor District 3               32    8   8  16    22   40  −18    32
21  Tierra Interstellar Wanderers   32    7   9  16    31   50  −19    30
22  Tornline                        32    7   7  18    43   66  −23    28

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Round of 16
Atlético Oterro (L1) 1–1 Ramusok United (H) (1–3 AET)
Crawford City FC (H) 3–1 Portsmouth (T)
FC Arkadius (L2) 4–1 Lykathea City (L2)
Bayford City (L2) 1–2 Revanigruud Riversharks (S)
Real Azuris (H) 3–1 Eastweald (H)
Klyde (H) 3–0 Keenan Athletic (H)
Riverside Crew (S) 1–1 FC Samotath (H) (1–2 AET)
Cassandra City (H) 3–3 Mallox (H) (3–4 AET)

Cassandra City might break the points record this season, but Mallox have made sure it will always be debatable whether or not it was the greatest campaign in Cosumarite history. Because it won’t result in a double! The Tigers went in all guns blazing with nothing to lose and, after a 3-3 barnstormer in regular time, won the tie on a Trajan Bruyne header five minutes into extra time. In the other high-profile Round of 16 fixture, Real Azuris benefit from some heavy Eastweald rotation (they played less than 48 hours ago in the AOCL) to keep their pursuit of a record sixth King’s Cup alive. The homegrown contingent of Hidalgo Antúnes, Bryger Tidesson, Chandler Clorfeine and Alfred Tidesson leads the way with standout team performances.

Everything else pretty much goes according to expectations, though there’s some brief hand-wringing in Ramusok when Atlético Oterro take United to extra time. But, once there, Jock Sonny finally brought the big guns on (William Stone & Lara Wedderburn) and they cruised to a 3-1 win.


Quarterfinals
Ramusok United (H) 0–4 Crawford City FC (H)
FC Arkadius (L2) 0–4 Revanigruud Riversharks (S)
Real Azuris (H) 3–0 Klyde (H)
FC Samotath (H) 0–4 Mallox (H)

Wow, uh, I guess there’s no doubt about which four teams belong in the semifinals. All four quarterfinal matches are absolute shellackings. Stabb & Alcouin have a field day together against Ramusok United’s ragged defense, Revanigruud unsurprisngly trashes the last remaining lower league team, Jeremy Benedict’s two magnificent goals steal a Cup edition of the Klyde Isle Derby, and FC Samotath’s defense doesn’t even show up for their match against Mallox. Seriously, Jordan Emery runs straight past them to put a shot on frame, like, five times.



Semifinals Fixtures

Crawford City FC vs. Revanigruud Riversharks
@ Fire River Arena (80.000), Ramusok, Ramusok Fief

Real Azuris vs. Mallox
@ Orangi Stadium (61.000), Crawford, Ankortroth Fief

[Cosumar]

Series B Champions' Cup Quarterfinals, First Leg
FC Kaldukosic 2-0 Eterna Miyako (HIN)
Flint Ridge Eagles (NGD) 2-3 Keenan Athletic

Kaujarre Nisa continues to be the breakout player of FC Kaldukosic’s campaign, putting the Victors on a path to the semifinals with a side-footed shot chucked in off the post with precision. That made it 1-0 early, and Nisa’s simple through ball to splice the last two defenders for Inigo Bengochea to convert on a breakaway made it 2-0 late on. All they’ll have to do now is hold the line in Hinodejin.

Keenan Athletic had a bumpier time in New Gelderland, but still mustered up a win with some special stuff from their own standout winger: Elodie Sade. The young woman is no longer merely “Collette Sade’s daughter”. She has become a star in her own right for Athletic, and a SBCC title run would be the perfect spotlight to show the world. Can she bear the attacking load again at home?


Härlighet Ligan Matchday 27
Ramusok United 3–4 IFK Aldenskoett
Real Azuris 2–3 Pelethas United
Crawford City FC 4–3 Cassandra City
FC Samotath 2–2 Mallox
Klyde 1–2 FC Kaldukosic
Eastweald 3–1 OAS Royal FC
Samaj FC 1–1 Zakhoro Aces
Keenan Athletic 2–2 Helfin Fief
Olask Islanders 2–4 Goldstaff City

Crawford City FC vs. Cassandra City basically turns into Hannah Alcouin vs. Vega Zeale-Riddick. The two main women are jawing at each other throughout the match, an incredible clash of prides and egos. It starts when Zeale-Riddick puts Hansi Weschler on the deck with some fancy footwork in the 5th minute and scores on him. “Mama bear” Alcouin took exception to VZR looking back and giving young Weschler the sassy staredown afterwards, running the length of the pitch to get in VZR’s face and scold her for her manners. When VZR made it 2-1 to Cassandra City in the 30th minute, she targeted Alcouin, running the length of the pitch as the Sunrisian previously did to hand her the ball with a deferential bow – a true show of manners! A fight nearly broke out when Alcouin wiped out Zeale-Riddick while defending a corner, and VZR responded with a water-spraying celebration that mocked Alcouin’s half-Vaporeon powers after Dídac Vivas made it 3-1 to Cassandra City just before half time. Both teams had to surround their respective stars to keep them from going at each other in the tunnel to the dressing rooms. Although VZR’s giddy smile amidst the fracas indicated she was enjoying the whole affair, Alcouin would have the last laugh. Playing pissed off with a stark determination, she fizzed a powerful shot past Calogero Metz from the right to make it 3-2 in the 73rd minute, dinked a cross over his head for Guilliver to nod home three minutes later and, finally, caressed a majestic curler from the far left side of the box into the far side-netting in the 92nd minute. 4-3 to CCFC. You bet she made sure Zeale-Riddick saw up-close what a real half-Vaporeon celebration looks like. With the league a foregone conclusion, 2nd placed Crawford kinda needed that moment to pour out their frustrations on the likely champions.

While VZR and Alcouin’s braces hogged the camera’s eye, it was a week for lucky twos all around the league! In similar fashion, William Stone’s two early goals were undone by Declan Smith’s late brace for IFK Aldenskoett (he can thank Lilly Kearney for letting both through – Jock Sonny must consider benching his declining keeper). Braces from both Jeremy Benedict and Charlie Alotic had Real Azuris and Pelethas United knotted at 2-2 until Auburn Tarrant came off the bench and restored the Miners’ lead for good. Alexander Kárpáty netted both goals for his team in a draw in Samotath, Goergina Wadimu did the same as in-form FC Kaldukosic won at Klyde, and Eastweald’s 36-year-old talisman Jo de Marisco had a brace of assists in a rare start this season, finding both longtime teammate Amokachi and rising star Jagoda Kovačević. The 3-1 win over OAS Royal was a true six-pointer in the UICA battle. It wasn’t a brace or even part of a win, but Jade Irwin’s goal was also noteworthy as it marked her return from injury much sooner than feared. Unfortunately for her and the Islanders, Corby Wheeler and Astor Zigfield were wreaking havoc all down the pitch on the other side. Goldstaff City up to their season-high of 8th.



Series B Champions' Cup Quarterfinals, Second Leg
Eterna Miyako 3-3 FC Kaldukosic
FC Kaldukosic advance 5-3 on aggregate

Keenan Athletic 4-0 Flint Ridge Eagles
Keenan Athletic advance 7-2 on aggregate

Quite the fun day of SBCC action for those following the Cosumarite cause. First, FC Kaldukosic come back from 2-1 down at the half (a slim one-goal lead on aggregate) to pummel Eterna Miyako in the second half and put the tie to bed – Yuri Hieri orchestrating much of the danger in his homeland. At DragonBull Field, Athletic smash the Eagles against the rocks with goals from Spisic, Sade, Fen and Cutnine. It could’ve easily been something like 6-0. Both Keenan and Kaldukosic still have the threat of relegation hanging over them in the league, but the SBCC has been a good outlet for both sides to exercise their more swashbuckling selves.



Härlighet Ligan Matchday 28
IFK Aldenskoett 0–1 Olask Islanders
Goldstaff City 2–2 Keenan Athletic
Helfin Fief 2–2 Samaj FC
Zakhoro Aces 2–3 Eastweald
OAS Royal FC 2–2 Klyde
FC Kaldukosic 3–1 FC Samotath
Mallox 2–3 Crawford City FC
Cassandra City 2–1 Real Azuris
Pelethas United 0–1 Ramusok United

Helfin-Samaj is an underrated rivalry, oft overlooked by the east-centric sports media in Cosumar. These two sides have been wrestling for control of the western plains for over a century, and their combined strength is probably greater right now than it has ever been. It was a great outdoor nighttime atmosphere at Scandrick’s Stadium, with a packed house of yellow shirts and black sashes cheering for their team’s survival under the stars (sprinkled with a few patches of burnt orange hoping for UICA status). One could even hear crickets loudly chirping between the chants of the Helfin Fief supporters. The Protons got their fans into the match early on - Samaj lost Robbie Guerricaechevarria’s lofted free kick in the night brights and allowed Jourdi Salverda to rise unopposed to head it back across the face of goal for Festus Cree to chest down and sweep home in the 25th minute. Samaj FC gradually established themselves as the superior football team, however, dominating possession and patiently working the field left to right through Rasunda Vanderlei for long stretches before and after half time. Helfin Fief couldn’t contain Szalyk Földessy either, who kept popping up to dispossess them. Their efforts were rewarded with goals in the 35th and 50th minutes, and Samaj looked on their way to another win over their nighbors to the north. And, perhaps, making up ground behind the likes of Goldstaff, Samotath and Royal. But the Helfin Fief support never stopped jumping and singing and, to their delight, Aron Riise struck in the 75th minute. The golden boy did what he does best – making something out of nothing. His dipping knuckleball from 22 yards was never going in, but it stung the palms of Kerwin Maston and spilled back out into the box. Work rate second to none, Riise followed his shot in at a sprint, allowing him to be in the exact right spot to slot the rebound home with a poacher’s touch. Maston totally heard his footsteps coming and it worked like a charm. Helfin Fief are still in last, but these are the kind of moments you need in order to build some belief.

Other noteworthy moments this week: Amokachi came to the rescue for Eastweald in Zakhoro, Krazy Tzyzakoos blasted home a 57th minute winner in Aldenskoett and OAS Royal defender Thomas Di Sansev will be suspended for three games after a dangerous follow-through that badly bruised the shin of goalscorer Griffin Riordan – also expected to miss Klyde’s next game now.

Finally, back at the ranch, Cassandra City almost clinched the title in supreme fashion – washing their hands of Real Azuris – but Crawford City FC – still a thorn in their sides – put off the festivities by beating Mallox on Kevin Stabb’s 82nd minute winner. FC Kaldukosic keep rolling too, using the SBCC to build some serious momentum and move up the league table. And Ramusok United, who have generally played to the level of their opposition this season, played the role of party pooper again in Pelethas. Saltorius Splitt created lots of chances, but teenage goalkeeper Rondok Cevelunen held firm in his first HL start in place of benched Lilly Kearney. A William Stone penalty in the second half made it 1-0 for United, effectively ending Pelethas’ UICA hopes this year.



Härlighet Ligan Matchday 29
Pelethas United 0–1 IFK Aldenskoett
Ramusok United 2–0 Cassandra City
Real Azuris 3–3 Mallox
Crawford City FC 1–0 FC Kaldukosic
FC Samotath 1–1 OAS Royal FC
Klyde 6–2 Zakhoro Aces
Eastweald 3–4 Helfin Fief
Samaj FC 1–1 Goldstaff City
Keenan Athletic 1–4 Olask Islanders

And again, Ramusok United! This time poo-pooing the party against their biggest rivals! Stone continued his scoring streak right away, redirecting Adrián Del Toro’s pass low past Metz in the 7th minute, and big Tajo Carr-Ponce headed home for 2-0 late on after his excellent marking kept Zeale-Riddick off the scoresheet all match. Even though Twitter theories are claiming Cassandra City dropped the ball at Fire River Arena on purpose so that they could win the league for their home fans next week, Arturo Mancini looked none-too-pleased with the letdown. “We don’t need this question hanging over our heads week after week. Is this finally it? Will this be the match we celebrate?” he asked reporters. “That’s not healthy. We don’t lose all year. Once we are able to clinch, we lose. To me, that proves it. It’s just a mental thing. We need to go back to playing our game so we can put this behind us and enjoy the rest of our season.”

And, uh… nevermind about Riordan missing time. She lines up against the Aces, realizes her Klyde FC is only four points above them (and the relegation playoff place), and says “hell no, we’re better than these scrubs!” Despite a noticeable limp at the opening whistle, she terrorizes the visiting Aces along with Sophia Trevelyan. The duo displayed a telepathic understanding of where the other would be at all times, knifing through the gaps in the Aces’ defense like butter with their one-two passes. The gory details are NSFW, but it ended 6-2 to Klyde. Two goals and two assists for the wounded Riordan, a hat trick and assist for Trevelyan – doubling the Llamanean’s goal tally on the season.

Helfin Fief, with their backs against the wall, notch one of the biggest and most impressive wins in club history. 4-3 at Eastweald. They got a surprise goal just 48 seconds in from Hugo Cartensen, and then fought back from a 2-1 deficit in the second half after conceding to Fanaiyan and Der Pros, pulling ahead 3-2 on Mauricio Larkspur’s quick-strike brace in the 54th and 56th minutes. They were forced to rally again after Amalia Del Angel equalized for Eastweald in the 84th minute, and Adrien Borges came through in stoppage time. Despite the oppresive noise at Old Weldenskirgen, the Valladar striker glided coolly past Eric Bambic as he collected Riise’s layoff and nutmegged Esteban Hernandez! Equal thanks to Jade Irwin schooling a physically-drained Keenan Athletic, Helfin Fief are out of last… but still three points from potential safety.


Cygnus Cup Semifinals, First Leg
Starling (NPH) 0-2 Real Azuris

Most impressive from Real Azuris in Nephara. Bryger Tidesson provides the first highlight by exploding onto the end of a Mbdiai Akarenaa ball into space, beating a few defenders on the dribble and finally beating the goalkeeper with a powerful strike. Starling threaten to equalize, but Edith Tidesson matches her brother with a few highlights of her own in goal. Finally, it’s Benedict who puts a diagonal strike past Smordal for a massive second away goal in the 87th minute. Another Cygnus Cup Final is within reach.


AOCL Semifinals, First Leg
Eastweald 2-0 AC Izotz Zubia (AUD)

Despite playing in the comforts of home, Eastweald’s midweek win is arguably even more impressive. Zozi are considered one of the best sides of the world right now. But Penumbra Amokachi cares not, and makes a fool of their central defense, cutting from side to side in the box before finally lifting a shot into the top corner. Memories of the weekend’s loss to Helfin Fief were fully erased when Sven Haalogalsson slid into the back post (literally, it painfully split his legs) to polish off Fanaiyan’s hard-hit ball in from the right. Can the Elves hang on in the face of an all-out Zozi blitz that is sure to follow back in Audioslavia?


Härlighet Ligan Matchday 30
IFK Aldenskoett 0–1 Keenan Athletic
Olask Islanders 0–1 Samaj FC
Goldstaff City 3–3 Eastweald
Helfin Fief 0–0 Klyde
Zakhoro Aces 0–3 FC Samotath
OAS Royal FC 1–4 Crawford City FC
FC Kaldukosic 0–4 Real Azuris
Mallox 1–4 Ramusok United
Cassandra City 3–4 Pelethas United

The celebrations will have to wait... again. Two goals bagged in the first five minutes seemed like the beginning of a day full of celebrations in Casssandra, but the lead had evaporated by half time (2-2). Alotic and Zeale-Riddick traded goals early in the second half to make it 3-3, but it was Pelethas United’s Jens Kåsa who struck last from the top of the box to make it 4-3. It’s the first home loss of the season for Cassandra City, and first consecutive losses. Are they falling apart at the finish line?

Ramusok United, winners of six of their last seven, suddenly think they can make the UICA. Their belief shows. They’re the ones who pounce like a tiger on a crippled meal after Mallox are reduced to nine by a second red card of the game in the 46th minute (Dé following Masatoshi off). Lots of movement off the ball, patiently waiting to play second and third options, finding pockets of space… building up to simple finishes. Lara Wedderburn, Del Toro, Stone and Eliana Yotirmoy trade turns applying the final touch seemingly every time Ramusok United venture forward in the second half. Mallox’s hold on the top five is now tenuous and United are right there behind them.

Samaj striker Vesina Va’Lepeh, with a chipped 86th minute winner as she’s bowled over by Clement Bourass, dramatically breaks up the scoring drought that has plagued her since her prolific first half of the season. The Hunters could still make a last-gasp push for UICA if she starts scoring by the bunches again. Keenan Athletic also get a big win, scraping nervously past Aldenskoett on Sade’s goal, as relegation rivals Zakhoro and Helfin Fief both slack. It’s looking like only one of those three will have a chance to survive.

2 Crawford City FC       30   17   4   9    80   54  +26    55  CC
 3 Real Azuris            30   14   8   8    74   64  +10    50  GC
 4 Mallox                 30   13   7  10    59   52   +7    46  GC
 5 FC Samotath            30   12   9   9    54   55   −1    45  GC
 6 Eastweald              30   12   8  10    70   60  +10    44
 7 Ramusok United         30   11  11   8    55   52   +3    44 
-------------------
16 Zakhoro Aces           30    8   7  15    58   75  −17    31  PO
17 Keenan Athletic        30    8   7  15    49   66  −17    31  R
18 Helfin Fief            30    7   8  15    57   73  −16    29  R

Cygnus Cup Semifinals, Second Leg
Real Azuris 1-1 Starling
Real Azuris advance 3-1 on aggregate

Bryger Tidesson shines on the big stage again, quieting down any comeback talk with a quick equalizer for Real Azuris after Woodwind’s opener. Keira Andisori flashed some of her magic in the second half, but the young back line held firm, displaying some real growth. A month ago they probably would’ve conceded. Now they’ll have a chance to do it in the final.


AOCL Semifinals, Second Leg
AC Izotz Zubia 1-0 Eastweald
Eastweald advance 2-1 on aggregate

Eastweald weather the storm. Laborious Hawk sizzled the back of the net with a laser-strike along the ground in the 71st minute and had another effort cleared off the line in the 82nd minute, but it just took AC Izotz Zubia too long to find their rhythm in the game and make Eastweald really sweat.


Härlighet Ligan Matchday 31
Cassandra City 1–0 IFK Aldenskoett
Pelethas United 4–2 Mallox
Ramusok United 0–1 FC Kaldukosic
Real Azuris 1–1 OAS Royal FC
Crawford City FC 1–1 Zakhoro Aces
FC Samotath 1–0 Helfin Fief
Klyde 2–1 Goldstaff City
Eastweald 3–1 Olask Islanders
Samaj FC 2–2 Keenan Athletic

There it is! Home against IFK Aldenskoett is simply too juicy of an opportunity for Cassandra City to mess up, and Lojes de Sájajo provides the long-awaited clinching goal just before half time. With a bit of shake and bake to leave Kristian Friedmann in the dust, the Farf winger then cut inside past Kulverbach and dragged a low shot back to the bottom corner. Bram Merchant, slow to get down, was only able to push it onto the post and in. With the lead in hand, Mancini then ordered Frostmarris and Gargo to buckle down on IFK’s only scoring threat, Declan Smith. It took a little bit longer than expected in the end, but Cassandra City are officially the 1015 Härlighet Ligan champions. And they can still have the points record if they win all three of their remaining matches. With this monkey off their back at last, you wouldn’t put it past them.

De Sájajo’s title-winning goal is the one that will be played on repeat for years to come, but it was a week for all the Farves in Cosumar! In addition to Metz’s clean sheet, Nisa also tapped in the 1-0 winner for FC Kaldukosic off Antra Teika’s spilled penalty and Stiin Siorrha’Asione scored a magnificent two goals for Mallox in a losing effort down in Pelethas. Kennedy Kopenhaver will be furious with everyone but Stiin after that one. They didn’t even have the red cards as an excuse this time – and two of the four they conceded were set-piece breakdowns. Unusual from Mallox as they slip out of the UICA places. Winless in five, are they collapsing at the worst time? It’s a toxic, antagonistic dynamic in the Weald this week. Eastweald, of course, are the ones who leapfrogged Mallox into the top five with their comprehensive win over Olask, midweek AOCL form carrying over for once. FC Samotath, for their part, are still hanging around in the UICA zone despite their naysayers and goal-differential of exactly zero. Santo Silvestri’s clutch goalscoring has been a difference for the northerners this year. It was the case again as he outmaneuvered big Thoralf Brynjolfsson to get on the end of Panossian’s lumped ball forward in the 68th minute and slipped the 1-0 winner nonchalantly around on-rushing Maxine Edelgrau. And, lo and behold, rival Nepharim goalkeeper Simon Ardley came up with some timely saves on the other end to preseve the lead. The big win for Samotath was an equally big loss for Helfin Fief. Why? Well, look below. Three games to play…

2 Crawford City FC       31   17   5   9    81   55  +26    56  CC
 3 Real Azuris            31   14   9   8    75   65  +10    51  GC
 4 FC Samotath            31   13   9   9    55   55    0    48  GC
 5 Eastweald              31   13   8  10    73   61  +12    47  GC
 6 Mallox                 31   13   7  11    61   56   +5    46
 7 Ramusok United         31   11  11   9    55   53   +2    44
-------------------- 
16 Zakhoro Aces           31    8   8  15    59   76  −17    32  PO
17 Keenan Athletic        31    8   8  15    51   68  −17    32  R
18 Helfin Fief            31    7   8  16    57   74  −17    29  R

Series B Champions' Cup Semifinal, First Leg
FC Kaldukosic 2-0 AC Hartdale (VAL)
Keenan Athletic 0-0 Wirr Tsi (CMT)

The HL has a representative in each half of the SBCC semifinals. Could an all-Cosumarite FINAL be the scenario unfolding on the horizon? Well, Kaldu did their part, turning Vanorian opposition away without a road goal. Sigrun Rathskeller’s performance in the back was integral as FC Kaldukosic adopted a more defensive look than in the Quarterfinal and were still able to grind two Bengochea goals out of nothing. So, looking good in that semi. Keenan Athletic also secured the valuable home clean sheet, but found Wirr Tsi too hard of a nut to crack on the other end. Chromatika is a challenging place for Cosumarite sides to play. Will the Bobs be able to tough it out?


Härlighet Ligan Matchday 32
IFK Aldenskoett 0–1 Samaj FC
Keenan Athletic 2–1 Eastweald
Olask Islanders 1–1 Klyde
Goldstaff City 2–3 FC Samotath
Helfin Fief 1–2 Crawford City FC
Zakhoro Aces 3–3 Real Azuris
OAS Royal FC 5–3 Ramusok United
FC Kaldukosic 1–1 Pelethas United
Mallox 2–3 Cassandra City

The title was the first domino to fall, and more clinchings ensued this weekend. Teor Rwang’s textbook finish on a counter incited by Bryger Tidesson in the sixth of eight minutes of stoppage time was all Real Azuris – currently 3rd – needed to secure a top five finish. Around the same time, Kevin Stabb rose from close range to bicycle kick Kim Coultan’s deflected shot across the line in the 85th minute, clinching 2nd place and Champions’ Cup football next season for Crawford City FC. That fateful goal might’ve also been the final nail in the coffin for Helfin Fief. With Athletic squirming out of the relegation zone on a resilient defensive win over rotated Eastweald, the yellow-and-black are now a full six points from safety with only six left to play for. Grim prospects for Josie MacLean.

For their part, Eastweald’s loss to Keenan Athletic represents more of a worrying trend this season. The Elves have not been good on the road and that’s why they’re clinging onto 5th instead of defending their title. Fortunately for them, Mallox are their chief rivals for the last Globe Cup spot (of course they are) and the Tigers were paid a visit by the champions this week. On top of the predictable Mallox loss (despite Kárpáty’s exploits), Eastwealders relished seeing The Orange Palace humbled by the act of performing the guard of honour for Cassandra City.

But OAS Royal reinserted themselves into consideration for that last Globe Cup spot too by winning a crazy Ramusok Derby this week. Both Royal and United needed to go for all three available points to keep up the UICA chase - and it showed. Syl Denhardt was jumping up and down after his side’s fast start - 1st and 7th minute goals from zippy homegrown products Zöe Aedelbrandt and Beatriz Koclanes. Counterpart Marsteller’s always-rising strike lifted spirits at Crowley Memorial again just before half time, making it 3-1. Royal’s influence faded in the second half, however, and questionable positioning allowed Stone to cut the lead to 4-3 with fifteen minutes left. Denhardt’s decision to call Claudia Cautcher’s number ended up being a lifesaver, however - stemming the shifting of the tide. Cautcher has undoubtedly slowed down this season, but she’s still good to come off the bench, make sharp runs in behind the defense and bag two goals.

FC Samotath also took another step closer to clinching a UICA berth by winning at Bostitch Lane, Silvestri’s hat trick (all assisted by Dimitra Exarchopolous) outpacing Aelfwynn Bannion’s brace. And if they’re not careful, fellow northerners IFK Aldenskoett might just end up clinching a relegation that would’ve seemed extremely unlikely even a month ago. The goals have dried up on Uriah Teach’s frustrated charges and Va’Lepeh’s late bullet header handed them a third consecutive loss.

3 Real Azuris            32   14  10   8    78   68  +10    52  GC
 4 FC Samotath            32   14   9   9    58   57   +1    51  GC
 5 Eastweald              32   13   8  11    74   63  +11    47  GC
 6 Mallox                 32   13   7  12    63   59   +4    46
 7 OAS Royal FC           32   12   9  11    61   59   +2    45
 8 Samaj FC               32   12   8  12    51   50   +1    44
 9 Ramusok United         32   11  11  10    58   58    0    44 
------------------
15 IFK Aldenskoett        32   11   3  18    39   55  −16    36
16 Keenan Athletic        32    9   8  15    53   69  −16    35  PO
17 Zakhoro Aces           32    8   9  15    62   79  −17    33  R
18 Helfin Fief            32    7   8  17    58   76  −18    29  R

Series B Champions' Cup Semifinals, Second Leg
AC Hartdale 1-1 FC Kaldukosic
FC Kaldukosic advance 3-1 on aggregate

Wirr Tsi 0-2 Keenan Athletic
Keenan Athletic advance 2-0 on aggregate

Nisa’s 47th minute equalizer pretty much garaunteed FC Kaldukosic’s place in the final, dampening the mood in Hartdale just as the fans were starting to raise their voices again after the half. Somewhat surprisingly, Wirr Tsi never feigned a real challenge at home either. Alfan-Harta Waz scored in the 19th minute with a textbook “down and hard” header off Häkon Fen’s free kick, and at 1-0 with an away goals disadvantage the Chromatiks just, kind of… resigned. Waz, the young Qusma international defender, was the unlikely scorer again in the 85th minute to cement the all-Cosumarite final.

So… Keenan Athletic vs. FC Kaldukosic for the SBCC trophy. What a showing for the Härlighet Ligan, garaunteed its first SBCC winner! Soccer message boards tonight are filled with insufferable HL fans spouting the company line. (Sorry about that). But these hordes of general “pro-Cosumar” fans might be in for a bit of a crisis next month. Who will they root for in the final???


Härlighet Ligan Matchday 33
Mallox 1–0 IFK Aldenskoett
Cassandra City 4–1 FC Kaldukosic
Pelethas United 0–2 OAS Royal FC
Ramusok United 4–3 Zakhoro Aces
Real Azuris 0–2 Helfin Fief
Crawford City FC 4–2 Goldstaff City
FC Samotath 2–1 Olask Islanders
Klyde 0–3 Keenan Athletic
Eastweald 3–3 Samaj FC

Cassandra City want that points record! The Amphitheatre continued its celebration of their best-ever season, partying and waving flags for 90 minutes as their Reds routed FC Kaldukosic with Goulding, Serafino, Zeale-Riddick and Janet Kobro all getting on the scoresheet. Charles Dyer Vry also had two assists, and two goals of his own questionably waved offside.

Mallox pick a good time to awaken from their slumber, albeit groggily - needing Kárpáty’s glancing header off Emery’s driven-in cross in the 73rd minute to separate themselves from stingy, desperate Aldenskoett. IFK are definitively in the relegation mixer now. They’ve suffered their fourth consecutive 1-0 loss (that’s right, they’re on over 400 scoreless minutes) as Keenan Athletic, by contrast, have found a new level under the pressure and surpassed them. If IFK lose again next week and the Aces win, they’re thrust down the trapdoor with Helfin Fief. Talk about a choke job. They were four places above relegation six weeks ago. “YOU people need to STOP asking me how the team is feeling. We feel fucking miserable,” Uriah Teach snaps at reporters post-game. “Is that what you want to hear?”

While Eastweald did well to fight back from 2-0 down to Samaj, and rebound again in stoppage time (Amokachi wide to Velasquez and back in for Fanaiyan to smash past Maston) after giving up what seemed like a 3-2 winner to Va’Lepeh in the 89th, a 3-3 draw is not good enough defensively for a team teetering on the edge of the UICA zone. OAS Royal is now even with them just behind 5th placed Mallox, Thør Moller and Sen Marsteller delivering the goods down in Pelethas.

Helfin Fief go down swinging with a win in Azuris, but Athletic’s impressive win later that night at The Klyde Sportsplex officially relegates them anyways. Everyone will be looking to see where talents like Riise, Borges, Yucob and Björn-Axel Borchgardt go.

5 Mallox                 33   14   7  12    64   59   +5    49  GC
 6 Eastweald              33   13   9  11    77   66  +11    48
 7 OAS Royal FC           33   13   9  11    63   59   +4    48
 8 Ramusok United         33   12  11  10    62   61   +1    47 
--------------------
15 Keenan Athletic        33   10   8  15    56   69  −13    38
16 IFK Aldenskoett        33   11   3  19    39   56  −17    36  PO
17 Zakhoro Aces           33    8   9  16    65   83  −18    33  R

Härlighet Ligan Matchday 34 Preview

Cassandra City have won the league. Crawford City FC, Real Azuris and FC Samotath have locked down places in the top five. Helfin Fief have been relegated. All that’s left to fight for on Championship Sunday is the fifth and final UICA berth – but what a fight it will be! Four different fanbses (see above) still hold out hope of a coveted spot in the top five – the watermark of a successful season. There’s also still some potential drama to be had down in the relegation zone as 1.5 safe places remain for three clubs.

Here are the six matches to keep your eye on as you try to ingest all the football on tap today:

1. Eastweald @ IFK Aldenskoett - It hasn’t been the campaign Theresa Riether envisioned following last season’s title, but Eastweald can salvage some dignity if they win here and get back into the UICA. It feels like IFK Aldenskoett haven’t scored since Falchion Hess-Olesen was just a lad, so it’s a favorable draw to say the least. But never underestimate the difficulty of defeating a side determined to pack it in for their own survival. A single point ensures slumping IFK Aldenskoett live to die another day. Lose and they risk being overtaken by the Aces, completing their epic collapse.

2. FC Samotath @ Keenan Athletic – If, by some miracle, Aldenskoett defeat Eastweald, Keenan Athletic could slide back into the relegation playoff. A point at Alesund Stadion should do the trick for them. FC Samotath might be willing to oblige, having nothing to play for but the difference between 3rd and 4th, but they’ll probably want to put on one last show for their home fans to cap an excellent season.

3. Ramusok United @ Helfin Fief – Ramusok have been much more consistent here in the second half of the season, but they’ll still need some help for Jock Sonny to return the club to the Globe Cup. They should be able to beat relegated Fief, but the Blues also need several results above them to fall their way. This will also probably be Cosumar’s last sight of U21 international Aron Riise in a Helfin Fief shirt.

4. Pelethas United @ Zakhoro Aces - Pelethas have been the epitome of mediocrity this season, and nothing about this match will change that. They’ll be eager to wipe this season from memory and start fresh next year, which could bode well for an Aces side that MUST win to have any chance of escaping relegation. If they can see off the Miners at home AND the Eagles of Aldenskoett fall, they’ll sneak into relegation playoff at IFK’s suspense.

5. Cassandra City @ OAS Royal FC – Like their neighbors on the other side of Ramusok, the Whites probably need a win and some help in order to crack Cosumar’s reduced UICA field. An OAS Royal win would disqualify Ramusok United, but an Eastweald or Mallox win would disqualify Royal. Unfortunately, Syl Denhardt also has the toughest draw. Crowley Memorial is an imposing fortress, but it won’t scare an unrivaled Cassandra City squad that can equal Real’s all-time points record with a draw or claim it for their own with a win. Vega Zeale-Riddick is also chasing history, needing one more goal to break her own single-season record of 32.

6. Mallox @ FC Kaldukosic – Mallox hold 5th place by a point, but if you haven’t noticed yet, there are a host of teams gunning to overtake them. They control their own destiny, but they need to come through with all three points at Leviathan Arena. Cillian Najdorf has FC Kal safely midtable with little play for except a good taste in their mouth over what’s likely to be a big offseason.

[Cosumar]

Zapt Park is buzzing with tension as the Aces take the field like condemned gladiators to fight for their survival. It’s a moment made for a warrior like Temuge, and the Savalen captain slips through the Pelethas United line just 39 seconds in to latch onto Kurtis Samarqand’s flicked-on header and slot past a stranded Nier. Just what the doctor ordered! Zapt Park oozes relief as the Zakhoro fans celebrate the goal, and Koru Özturk adds another with his left peg on the turn in the 14th minute. Maybe, just maybe, this day would have a happy ending! It sure seemed like it…until Pelethas erased the two-goal lead before half time through Saltorious Splitt and Charlie Alotic. That’s what happens when you get complacent and give Saltorius space to operate.

But the Aces have plenty of motivation to keep pressing on in the second half. Eastweald are in command 1-0 over in Aldenskoett thanks to left back Aron Thatch’s thunderbolt with the last kick of the half. As long as Eastweald are winning, the Aces’ window to survival is open. Despite their lead, Eastweald are still on the outside of the top five and looking in. Mallox right back Keziah Broxham has bossed FC Kaldukosic on both sides of the pitch and her outside-of-the-boot finish off Cloudchaser’s layoff has the Tigers up 2-1 and holding on tight to 5th place.

Helfin Fief, FC Samotath and OAS Royal all took early leads but respective opponents Ram U, Keenan Athletic and Cassandra City weren’t phased and quickly bounced back. Tajo Carr-Ponce with the towering header for Ramusok United 14 minutes after Yucob’s 5th minute opener and Ursula Rowan with the late run and finish from midfield less than two minutes after Aedelbrandt got Crowley Memorial up on its feet in the 8th minute. Both Ramusok sides find themselves stuck at 1-1, needing to crank up the attacking intent in the second half. In Athletic’s case, they went one further and took a 2-1 lead on Lethe Cirvante’s free kick, all but assuring their safety.

IFK Aldenskoett 0-1 Eastweald
Samaj FC 2-2 Klyde
Keenan Athletic 2-1 FC Samotath
Olask Islanders 0-1 Crawford City FC
Goldstaff City 1-2 Real Azuris
Helfin Fief 1-1 Ramusok United
Zakhoro Aces 2-2 Pelethas United
OAS Royal FC 1-1 Cassandra City
FC Kaldukosic 1-2 Mallox

Ramusok United absolutely shred a demoralized Helfin Fief in the second half, turning 1-1 into 5-2. Goalscorers Stone, Tevin Lilley, Wedderburn and Ivo Jago have no sympathy for their relegated opponents. 7th is only marginally better than last season's 8th, but for all their tribulations in the middle of the season, United finish strong and, most importantly, above Royal.

Back in the capital, Cassandra City press OAS Royal into submission, proving the points record to be a more enticing carrot than the Globe Cup. Either that, or Cassandra City are just better. Their back line just a bit more solid, their midfield just a bit more athletic and, well, Vega Zeale-Riddick just being herself. With her 70th minute penalty, drawn by de Sájajo, VZR claimed all the prizes at stake: the win, the points record (78 pts) and her goals record (33 goals). And the pleasure of disappointing the several dozen thousand “plastic” Royals fans on hand.

In the end, Mallox also hang on to keep Eastweald out of the UICA, Stiin Siorrha’Asione knocking over Adonis Satotxe with an uncalled forearm, filling the vacated space and bending a 3-2 winner around Ael Koron in the 83rd minute. “Suck my flamingo cock, you wannabe Elves! You’re not even Vanorian!” he yells nonsensically while thrusting into a camera after running to the sideline with teammates in tow. Eastweald walk off the pitch at The Eagle’s Nest with heads bowed despite a solid 2-0 performance and Mallox fans party almost as hard as they did two years ago.

Yeah… there was a LOT of negative energy to be found at The Eagle’s Nest. It almost became a competition between Eastweald and IFK Aldenskoett players as to who was more distraught. The answer was surely the Eagles, who had many players laying facedown in the grass for upwards of 10 minutes after the final whistle. Everyone on the pitch had heard about Özturk’s 3-2 winner down in Zakhoro and knew that their spectacular late-season tumble had come to full fruition. A season that had started with such promise had ended in the most nightmarish way. They’d given 110% for the last several weeks, but just couldn’t. buy. a. fucking. goal. The Aces draw a sharp breath and fortuitously scrape into the playoff. Again. It must be that club’s favorite game at this point.

IFK Aldenskoett 0–2 Eastweald
Samaj FC 4–2 Klyde
Keenan Athletic 3–3 FC Samotath
Olask Islanders 1–1 Crawford City FC
Goldstaff City 3–3 Real Azuris
Helfin Fief 2–5 Ramusok United
Zakhoro Aces 3–2 Pelethas United
OAS Royal FC 1–2 Cassandra City
FC Kaldukosic 2–3 Mallox

Promotion/Relegation Playoff

Zakhoro Aces are here after finishing 16th in Härlighet Ligan. Their defense was a disaster, the worst in the league, but they were able to (sort of) get by on the endeavors of their best player and #10 Koru Özturk. The efficient finishing of #9 Kurtis Samarqand was also a boon for the Aces. Young wingers Tarmé and Makenna Scripps offered flashes of brilliance but weren’t quite consistent enough. Robert Hobbs was the only defender worth mentioning, but he couldn’t salvage the trainwreck in the back. If they get past this last hurdle, the Aces MUST overhaul everything behind the front four next year. Treftadaeth Alliance definitely have the weapons to test them.

Treftadaeth Alliance are here after finishing 3rd in Sekundar Ligan. The Astronomers were outside the promotion conversation for much of the season, but absolutely caught FIRE in the last three months. They went an undefeated 9-4-0 in their last 13 matches, going from -1 to +18 goal differential over that span. Wingbacks Baldomero Teijeiro and Socorro Shakir are a frightening sight flying down the flanks, Toussaint Robitaille can pull the strings in attacking midfield and Isaiah Miller is a uncompromising skyscraper of a target forward. They’re the favorites going into this one as a result of their red-hot attacking form, but they mustn’t understimate Özturk’s ability.

In a tense match surprisingly short on cast-iron scoring chances between two sides who normally like to get after it, it took until the 34th minute before the first save was made. Treftadaeth Alliance had been asking more of the question in the first half, and Robitaille finally found an opening to crack a hard shot on frame. Sinistar clutched it at the second time of asking, however, and the Aces’ defense went back to soaking up the pressure thereafter.

Much was made of Zakhoro’s defensive struggles this season, but give credit to Tekeh Na’Vatajin for having his men prepared for this one. Sinistar had to make one more save in first half stoppage time, parrying away Isaiah Miller’s shot from distance and diving on the rebound before Pekka Mäntysaari could scurry it in for Alliance.

As the first half turned into the second, the Astronomers appeared to be losing belief that they would ever find a crack in the Zakhoro defence. But Robitaille finally provided the inspiration in the 69th minute, worming free with some silky stepovers to fire away a low cross that Miller profited from at the back post, the Aces defense heartbreakingly losing its organization for the first time all match.

The Aces gunned forward for some late attacking chances, but the closest they ever got to an equalizer was when Samarqand fluffed his lines from close range in the 89th minute, Özturk’s pass getting caught underfoot and ending up just wide. Na’Vatajin cut a somber figure after the game, thanking his players for their “being willing to leave it on the line”, knowing he probably won’t be coaching them again.

Aces yo-yo down after a two-year stay in the HL, and Alliance yo-yo back up after a two-year stay of their own in Sekundar Ligan.

Zakhoro Aces 0-1 Treftadaeth Alliance
Isaiah Miller 69'

will compete in the 1015 Härlighet Ligan at the expense of

3rd VILITAN COVE INVITATIONAL - FINAL
@ Tivali Ring Stadium, Alikki-Corra, Vilita

Ah, the VCI, the newest international club tournament on the scene. If it persists as long as, say, the Cygnus Cup has, clubs competing right now have a chance to get in on the ground floor of its history. Ramusok United collectively decided to make a go at it!

They went through Alnio, Perokotyog Yogyakulta, and Galatica to become the first HL club to reach the final in the VCI’s three editions. A chance now beckons for Jock Sonny to secure his first trophy as Ramusok United manager and, after an anticlimatic end to the league season, set down a tangible marker of progress going into year three of his project.

Playing a V-League side, Tivali City, in their homeland promised to be no easy feat, but Keohane gave United a 30th-minute lead when she took full advantage of a Tivali defender’s feeble challenge to latch on to Rondok Cevelunen’s goal-kick and loft a cool finish over the opposite keeper. Cevelunen only had to make one save in a first half dominated by the Blues, when the Tivali striker slipped past Igor Topic into the box from the right and mashed a shot that he had to tip over the crossbar in the 38th minute. One minute later, surprise starter Ivo Jago swept in Sparrow Body’s cross-shot to make it 2-0.

Tivali City continued to struggle making the final connection in the second half, with John Hare putting in an imperious performance to snuff out any danger. Dustin Bachelor put the final flourish on United and Sonny’s day with a powerful shot that skipped under the keepery, allowing United to close out the most routine of high-stakes victories.

This was the sort of day Ramusok United’s board had in mind when they brought in Schottic legend Sonny two summers ago. As he lifted the VCI trophy and passed it to his Man of the Match, Hare, with a toothy grin, the hearts of hordes of blue-clad Ramusoki simultaneously melted.

Tivali City 0-3 Ramusok United
Keohane 30’
Ivo Jago 39’
Dustin Bachelor 89’



46th CUP WINNERS’ CUP FINAL
@ Lonngeylin Coliseum in Lonngeylin, Vilita

Up against real Audioslavian quality in the final, Real Azuris nevertheless chose the moment to start four Tidesson siblings together in a UICA match for the first time (Bryger, Alfred, Edith, Birgid) and still won 3-0, continuing Cosumar’s run on postseason trophies.

Andrew Arrowsword nodded in Bryger Tidesson’s cross shortly before half time to put the recent Cygnus Cup champions ahead. Jeremy Benedict, playing in his first Cygnus Cup Final for the club, then broke through near the hour mark with a low strike driven to the far corner. Finally, the eldest Tidesson capped off a fine team performance with an accomplished finish, racing onto a sublime ball behind the KT Moreazerua defense from little sister Birgid.

Birgid tried to pretend to be cool and above the moment after assisting the 87th minute goal, but failed to suppress her sly smile as her brother practically picked her up like a little kid after racing towards her in celebration and continued running.

It was a much improved performance by Real Azuris, especially defensively – an area where they had some ups and downs this year (to be expected when relying on youngsters like Liesl Vanzanto, Edith and Alfred. But was it the last we’ll see of Bryger in the wave-adorned shirt?

KT Moreazerua 0-3 Real Azuris
Andrew Arrowsword 45+2’
Jeremy Benedict 59’
Bryger Tidesson 87’




30th AO CHAMPIONS’ LEAGUE FINAL
@ Elements Stadium, Ponyville, Equestrian States

Eastweald, appearing in their first ever international final, looked on course for pivotal trophy as they led through Penumbra Amokachi’s 22nd-minute scissor kick and Somuele Der Pros continued to control the ball throughout the opening half. Having already disposed of juggernauts AC Izotz Zubia, it seemed like their story was already written.

Tihon, however, are always strong in regional competition. In the 81st minute, they made Eastweald rue their many missed chances to extend the lead, levelling through John Karlovic’s free kick. The equalizer proved a decisive swing of momentum, and the Tide looked the more dangerous side over the final ten minutes.

Suddenly back on their heels, Eastweald needed two huge stops from Esteban Hernandez just to survive the sudden onslaught. It stayed level through the first half of extra time with both sides playing the waiting game, but it was Tihon who struck in the 118th minute. Moments after an Eric Bambic header was cleared off the line on the other, Karlovic won a header on the edge of the box and the ball dropped favorably for Chromatika winger Sasha Kristine, whose firm low finish gave Hernandez no chance.

Kristine wheeled away and slid on her knees in front of the ecstatic Tide supporters that made the trip to Ponyville, stopping the Cosumarite sides from going a perfect 3-0 in their international cup finals (all-Cosumar SBCC aside) and denying Theresa Riether a prestigious first AOCL trophy.

Tihon 1-1 (2-1 AET) Eastweald
Penumbra Amokachi 22’
John Karlovic 81’
Sasha Kristine 118’





68th SERIES B CHAMPIONS' CUP FINAL
@ Portomar Field, Navel Island, Whirl Islands

Hello! Marc Kirkovic here - UICA beat reporter for TheCourier.cos. Welcome to my live commentary feed of tonight's SBCC Final. It's a historic match, as the Härlighet Ligan has supplied both combatants of a UICA final for the first time. However tonight plays out, it will produce Cosumar’s first SBCC winner. But the teams here today don’t care about that. They want to win for themselves.

Here are the squads Cillian Najdorf and Matilda Heisenberg have called on for the big match, right to left:

FC Kaldukosic XI (4-2-3-1): Koron; Koehler, Rathskeller, Satotxe, Qotile; Helbro, Hieri; Teika, Wadimu, Nisa; Bengochea
Bench: M. Flaksenhaar, Litchmoor, Y. Flaksenhaar, Na’Jhadur, T. Flaksenhaar, Meratyn, Ulvstrom

Keenan Athletic (4-3-3): Verhoek; Fortidoré, Waz, Kindgren, Aspendelft; Lewitzki, Cirvante, Chandilize; Sade, Spisic, Cutnine
Bench: Petterson, Malleom, Arieli, Fen, Gullmarstam, Frederick, Jónsson

The man to watch on the Kaldukosic side is Kaujarre Nisa. The Farf winger has been bright for the last several weeks of the season and is a threat to score a goal at any time. Kaldu supporters are also longing to see 12-year club veteran Georgina Wadimu rewarded for her loyalty to the club with a UICA trophy in what might be her last appearance.

On the other side, five Keenan Athletic starters also played in the SBCC Final of four years ago, including captain Rone Kindgren in the backline and in-form midfielder Lethe Cirvante. They’ll be keen to make amends for their previous failure and take home something to build upon next season after staying up by the skin of their teeth.

Kaldukosic have to be the slight favorites over Keenan based on league finish, but the talent level is similar, so this one could truly go either way. As the last notes of the national anthem reverberate around Portomar Field and the heavily-Cosumarite crowd roars in anticipation, it’s time to find out. Let’s take it to the pitch!

1' – We're underway! FC Kaldukosic in dark green with white stripes and Keenan Athletic in their checkered monochrome grey. Athletic have the first taste of possession as Hal Lewitzki calmly hits it back to Kindgren to settle the nerves.

4' – Meekku Aspendelft plays an early lobbed through ball to Caitlin Cutnine, but the winger made the run just a little too early and the flag goes up as she bears down on goal.

10’ – Now Kaldukosic are getting forward a bit more, and Antra Teika *just* misses finding Inigo Bengochea with a silky backheel in the box. That would have been special had it come off! But Alfan-Harta Waz cuts it out and clears it.

15’ – GREAT CHANCE FOR KAUJARRE NISA! He beat the entire Keenan backline for pace and tried to guide a header over Jan Johannes Verhoek, but the effort went just wide. He probably scores that eight times out of ten.

19’ – Dinko Spisic gets off the first shot of the day for Athletic, blazing a header inches over the crossbar off a whipped-in cross from Ramiro Fortidoré.

26’ – Lots of great interplay between Teika, Nisa and Bengochea over the last five minutes for Kaldukosic. They continue to threaten the Keenan defense with their combinations, turns and runs. The finish is all that eludes them.

35’ – It has been all Kaldu of late, with the big city boys boasting 63% of possession. But another near-chance goes to waste as Georgina Wadimu chips a delightful free kick routine to an unmarked Nisa at the back post, but he misses any contact.

42' – GOAL FOR ATHLETIC!!! Tetris Chandilize! Who saw that coming? The Qad international simply mashes the ball into a crowded box and, against the run of play, it glances off Kaldukosic midfielder Brian Helbro’s shoulder and past outstretched Ael Koron. (KAL 0-1 KNN)

45’ – Nisa lines up another shot after knocking the ball around his marker with ease, but the would-be equalizer is headed off the line by Kindgren.

***

45+2' - Half time at last... FC Kal will feel hard done-by to be behind with their dominant stat lines, but Keenan Athletic have done well to defend as a unit and limit their confident opponents to lower-quality shots. When you do that, you give yourself a chance to get a result. Still, the Checkers will want to attack better in the second half. FC Kaldukosic 0-1 Keenan Athletic.

***

49' – Keenan Athletic showing more attacking energy here at the start of the second half with multiple deep runs into the Kaldukosic half.

50’ – Cirvante plays Cutnine in on goal after collecting a loose pass from Helbro, but the opportunity is cleared away by a desperate slide from Sigrun Rathskeller. Down the field, Teika collects the clearance along the touchline and quickly finds the feet of Wadimu, who skips forward and shoots a curling effort from distance! Verhoek scrambles backward to tip it over the bar. End to end stuff!

59’ – The first yellow card of the match is awarded to Rathskeller for clattering Elodie Sade from behind to win an aerial duel. Sade, arguably Athletic’s best player, has been quiet today – struggling with the physicality of Kaldukosic. This yellow might give her more license to go at Rathskeller in the heart of that defense though.

64’ – The physical tussles continue as Mirko Koehler and Aspendelft ram foreheads after a kicking-fest at the corner flag. Both are given yellows as the ref tries to take back control of the match. A corner will ensue - Koehler clipped the ball off the Keenan Athletic homegrown.

65’ – It comes to nothing as Alfan-Harta Waz volleys the underhit Kaldukosic corner out to Yuri Hieri, who turns and sprays a diagonal long ball towards Teika, but it sails over the winger’s head.

68’ – Bengochea and Nisa have a two-on-one! The former drifts wide, sets up the pass to the Farve… but the one Keenan defender manages to intercept the ball. Seriously?!?

70’ – At the other end, Spisic gets to the end line… chips a ball back into the fray… and Adonis Satotxe tries to head it behind for a corner, but it hits the crossbar! Very close to an own-goal there that would’ve damned Kaldukosic!

75’ – We’ve had our first subsitutions in the last few minutes. Keenan Athletic throw on another defender in Jake Malleom and Kaldukosic match them by calling on veteran forward Arne Ulvström.

83’ – Lewtzki sticks out his leg and commits a silly foul that will give FC Kaldukosic a free kick from a very dangerous position.

84' – GOAL!!! FC KALDUKOSIC HAVE THEIR RESPONSE AT LAST!!! It’s Antra Teika! She climbs above the Athletic defense and heads home Nisa’s inswinging free-kick! You can’t say it’s not deserved! The remaining minutes of regular time just got much more interesting. (KAL 1-1 KNN)

85’ – Keenan Athletic immediately trying to respond. This half has been very evenly-fought and they’re not willing to settle for extra time anymore like they might’ve been after their slow first half. With his first touch after coming on, Häkon Fen finds Cutnine out in space on the left wing, and the latter loops a ball in for the charging run of Cirvante. The Askari international bungles the first-time shot attempt, but it will stay with the Checkers for a corner. Waz headed it wide of the goal to be safe.

86' – GOAL FOR ATHLETIC!!! Elodie Sade answers right back! Fen plays a short corner from the left to the fullback Aspendelft, whose perfect swinging service found the chest of Sade on the opposite side. FC Kaldukosic couldn’t close her down fast enough to stop her from bringing it down and hammering it inside the near post! (KAL 1-2 KNN)

89’ – Rathskeller tries to play in Ulvström, but the big Cosumarite is offside. FC Kaldukosic are grasping at straws now.

90+1’ – Koehler sends in a cross for Bengochea, who rises above everyone and nods it goalwards… but it ripples into the side of the netting. So close for Kaldukosic there. Can they find another leveler late?

90+4’ – It doesn’t look like it! Keenan Athletic have been playing keep-away well and now Spisic is holding the ball up near the right corner flag. He seems to be enjoying the chance to taunt Kaldu and flash his strength.

90+5' – One last corner attempt for Kaldukosic, but Teika leans back and lashes the lofted ball high into the stands. That will do it, the ref’s whistle sounds!

Keenan Athletic are officially the best promoted team in the Multiverse and first Cosumarite SBCC champions. The club is now 1-1 all-time in the SBCC Final. Matilda Heisenberg has delivered the first international trophy (and first top flight trophy) to the northern plains and Elodie Sade is a national hero!

FC Kaldukosic 1-2 Keenan Athletic
Tetris Chandilize 42’
Antra Teika 84’
Elodie Sade 86’


...

---

---

Let’s take a moment to reflect on how good Cassandra City were this season. Calogero Metz had one of the best seasons of his long and distinguised career in goal. In front of him, Diedrich Frostmarris and Stephen Gargo were as steady of a partnership as they come, while young Audioslavian Dídac Vivas established himself as the best attacking right back in Cosumar. Jarobi Konsé stepped into a starting midfield role and shined as the fulcrum between brilliant box-to-box phenoms Bellerophon Serafino and Ursula Rowan, whose work rates, ranges and playmaking abilities made life convenient for Cassandra City’s stable of forward options. Including, of course, record-breaking goal scorer Vega Zeale-Riddick, who profited with a goal per game. Charles Dyer Vry, Jason Goulding, Ki Niro, Lojes de Sájajo and even old man Ace Newman also all rotated to play prominent roles alongside VZR. Young academy kids like Wil Jabelon and Janet Kobro also stepped up to provide needed depth in various areas without lowering the standard. No matter who was out there, everything worked like clockwork for Arturo Mancini. That’s why the Reds now hold the points record.

1014 Härlighet Ligan     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1  Cassandra City         34   24   6   4    88   54  +34    78  Champions, CC, AOCL
 2  Crawford City FC       34   19   6   9    88   59  +29    63  CC
 3  FC Samotath            34   15  10   9    63   61   +2    55  GC, VCI
 4  Real Azuris            34   14  11   9    81   73   +8    53  GC
 5  Mallox                 34   15   7  12    67   61   +6    52  GC
 6  Eastweald              34   14   9  11    79   66  +13    51
 7  Ramusok United         34   13  11  10    67   63   +4    50
 8  OAS Royal FC           34   13   9  12    64   61   +3    48
 9  Samaj FC               34   13   9  12    58   55   +3    48
10  Goldstaff City         34   10  11  13    71   73   −2    41
11  Olask Islanders        34   10  10  14    59   63   −4    40
12  Klyde                  34   10  10  14    56   63   −7    40
13  Pelethas United        34   11   7  16    51   59   −8    40
14  FC Kaldukosic          34   11   7  16    48   61  −13    40
15  Keenan Athletic        34   10   9  15    59   72  −13    39
16  Zakhoro Aces           34    9   9  16    68   85  −17    36  Relegated (PO)
17  IFK Aldenskoett        34   11   3  20    39   58  −19    36  Relegated
18  Helfin Fief            34    8   8  18    62   81  −19    32  Relegated





Härlighet Ligan XXVI Champions - CASSANDRA CITY

PLAYER OF THE YEAR:
1.   CF Vega Zeale-Riddick 
2.  LM/CM Bellerophon Serafino (COS)
3.  CM Ursula Rowan (NPH)
4.  AM Kim Coultan (SCT)
5.  CB Capsin Sibuc (COS)


NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR:
1.   LW Dimitra Exarchopolous
2.  CB Liam Toivonen (MRC)
3.  CM Somuele Der Pros (FFD)
4.  GK Simon Ardley (NPH)
5.  RW Lojes de Sájajo (FFD)

U21 PLAYER OF THE YEAR:
1.   ST Aron Riise (21)
2.  RB Dídac Vivas (21, AUD)
3.  CM Corby Wheeler (21, BRE)
4.  ST Declan Smith (20, ETN)
5.  ST Arden Lemons (20, COS)

TOP GOAL SCORERS:
33 -   Vega Zeale-Riddick  (record)
25 -  Andrew Arrowsword (CEN)
24 -  Alexander Kárpáty (PAS)
22 -  Vesina Va’Lepeh (COS)
21 -  Hannah Alcouin (USI)
   -  Astor Zigfield (COS)
   -  William Stone (EUR)
18 -  Santo Silvestri (JUV)
17 -  Aron Riise (COS)
   -  Kurtis Samarqand (ISK)
16 -  Kevin Stabb (USI/COS)
   -  Lara Wedderburn (SCT)
15 -  Ishtar Fanaiyan (NPH)
   -  Aelfwynn Bannion (BRE)
   -  Dinko Spisic (ESH)
   -  Koru Özturk (COS)

The Cosumarite Courier Team of the Season:

GK -  Calogero Metz (FFD) 
DF -  Diedrich Frostmarris (NPH)
DF -  Capsin Sibuc (COS)
DF -  Tomi Jakoljevic (COS)
LM -  Bellerophon Serafino (COS)
CM -  Ursula Rowan (NPH)
CM -  Kim Coultan (SCT)
RM -  Bryger Tidesson (COS)
ST -  Alexander Kárpáty (PAS)
ST -  Andrew Arrowsword (CEN)
ST -  Vega Zeale-Riddick (COS)

Manager of the Year -   Arturo Mancini

Bench: Ardley; Vivas, S. Arrowsword, Bruyne, Duvernay; Konsé, Antúnes, Klein; Fanaiyan, Va’Lepeh, Nisa

---

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Semifinals

Semifinal locations randomly drawn from pool of eligible venues; King's Cup Final always hosted in Ramusok Royal District (OAS).

 Crawford City FC 1-1 (1-1 AET) (3-4 pen.) Revanigruud Riversharks 
@ Fire River Arena (80.000), Ramusok, Ramusok Fief

When a running Jennifer Farrow knicked Joaquim Martell’s cutback into the net first-time while tumbling off-balance in just the 12th minute, it seemed like the beginning of a long day for Crawford City FC's Sekundar Ligan opponents. But the onslaught of further goals never came, and the Riversharks equalized in the 64th minute when Kubra Babaturk’s handball gave them a penalty. The Revanigruud goalkeeper stood on her head throughout extra time, and the Nuur Colony side’s perfect record on penalties continued in the subsequent shootout, frustrating Hansi Weschler. CCFC went toe to toe with them from the spot until fourth and fifth takers, Sarah Arrowsword and the goalscorer Farrow, both hit the post. Just like that, the Elephants were left standing there arm-in-arm, looking at the ground in disbelief as the Riversharks raced away towards the goal… towards their final. CCFC’s third crack at winning a King’s Cup will have to wait another year.

 Real Azuris 1-3 Mallox 
@ Orangi Stadium (61.000), Crawford, Ankortroth Fief

Real Azuris have made the King’s Cup their bitch recently. They’re the defending champs. Winners of five of the last eight. It’s hard to blame people, then, for assuming they would breeze into the King’s Cup Final (again). Even though Mallox IS a very good team. Seems like the Breakers kind of assumed the same thing too. But Mallox came out firing on all cylinders with something to prove, disrupting Real’s flowy passing and forcing them to play scared of the Mallox counter. Kennedy Kopenhaver’s strategy (and stirring pre-game speech) worked – the Tigers led 2-0 at half time and Alexander Kárpáty completed his brace to finish Azuris off, 3-0, in the 57th minute. Hidalgo Antúnes pulled one back at last in the 87th off a well-worked team sequence orchestrated by Bryger Tidesson, who waved the team emphatically back to the center circle, but no one in Orangi Stadium’s teal seats was buying their belated comeback attempt.

16th KING'S CUP FINAL

REVANIGRUUD RIVERSHARKS VS. MALLOX
@ Crowley Memorial World Cup Stadium at The Royal Palace (105.000), Ramusok, Ramusok Fief

Always a one-of-a-kind atmosphere when the two cup finalists meet at The Royal Palace for the last official match of the Cosumarite domestic season, with King James II himself overseeing it all. For just the third time, but for the second consecutive year, a non-HL club had made it to this grandiose stage. Second-tier Revanigruud Riversharks aren’t quite the Cinderellas that third-tier Otkins Numenvernia were last season, but they’re still quite the surprise finalists – and huge underdogs to Mallox. The Gellano Fief side are competing in their third King’s Cup Final, having gone 1-1 in their previous appearances. A win would mean their second-ever King’s Cup and second trophy under Kennedy Kopenhaver. The Riversharks, on the other hand, would be the first non-HL and first colonial club to win the King’s Cup. Hell, they’re already the first club from a Cosumarite space colony to make even the semifinals.

...

0' – The famous trophy has been wheeled out next to the entrance tunnell, glimmering on display tantalizingly as the players march in to standing ovation. The orange shirts of Mallox supporters fill a majority of the stadium, but there are a couple sections of Revanigruud folks who made the hefty trip – and they’ll likely have the support of the neutral onlookers as well.

1' - The King has ceremonially wished both teams good luck at the center circle, and Hernan Dé has hit the first kick back to Keziah Broxham! Another King's Cup Final is underway in the capital! It's a drizzly afternoon, so stay dry!

9' – Not much to report so far. Lots of fouls as both teams try to stamp their authority of proceedings. Barely three passes have been strung together on the ground.

10’ – That’s better! Jordan Emery holds up the ball and plays overlapping left back Kendrex Engram towards the end line. Engram just gets there with a late burst of pace and lofts a cross into the center, which Alexander Kárpáty meets with a ferocious snapping header. It bounces past the near post a hair wide!

20’ – Revanigruud Riversharks have their first sustained spell of attacking possession, and left winger Argus Valvutar is eventually able to win their first corner. But one gets the sense that it will take something special from the underdogs to unlock that staunch Mallox defense.

22' – Lorne Morten: Something like… that! Riversharks defender Morten throws aside his marker and rises to glance the ensuing corner straight into the back of the net! Kennedy Kopenhaver, known across the HL for preaching set-pieces, will be furious. Both at his team and the referee there. (REV 1-0 MLX)

25' – A sight to behold as Cloudchaser flicks Karlus Sjunitsson’s long entry ball gorgeously through the Riversharks defense on the turn for Kárpáty. The Pasargan striker, looking to silence the whispers of a shock upset, turns and quick-fires a long-range shot that dips wickedly at the last second. The Revanigruud keeper, Kiva Sirleaf, does exceptionally well to get down and palm it wide.

30’ – Slight delay in the match as the Riversharks’ defensive midfielder goes down with an injury. He’s replaced by a third CB. Riversharks preparing to bunker in with their lead?

36’ – “Let them bunker!” says Kárpáty. He continues to threaten the Revanigruud goal, this time firing from a tough angle on the right and forcing a save from Sirleaf, who has been impressive.

41’ – Attempt missed for the Riversharks. Oontaz international Ronson Ramirez drives forward and uncorks a 30-yard shot that sails high. Aside from the goal, that’s actually the best look they’ve had in this half.

***

45+3' – Half time is called as Mallox’s Cloudchaser sends an ambitious shot of her own into orbit. As it stands, this result would be a historic one, both for the history of the King’s Cup and for the groundswell movement of extraterrestrial and colonial soccer. It’s plain to see that Mallox have more quality though. Can they make it show on the scoreline?

***

52' – The second half has begun much like the first. The Riversharks are fouling Mallox pretty heavily, and have been shown their first two yellow cards. The Tigers have had a number of free kick chances to lick their lips at, but nothing is coming off.

61’ – Another close chance for Mallox as Broxham jukes past the left back and chops in a cross. Stiin Siorrha’Asione sprints from the opposite flank, lowers his shoulders and dives to meet it with his head. The contact is good! …But it’s straight down the middle for Sirleaf to knock down.

64' – Argus Valvutar: The scrappy winger pounces on a loose ball in the box following a poor free kick delivery and strikes low and hard to the bottom right corner. Va’Nega doesn’t even dive for it. Second shot on-target of the night for Revanigruud, second goal. Holy shit, the Nuur colonials might do this! (REV 2-0 MLX)

67' – And the time-wasting already begins. Apparently Valvutar celebrated his goal too hard, because now he’s laying at midfield with his eyes closed and his wrist on his forehead like a lightheaded housewife. After the two minutes of being delivered water by the trainers, he’s finally helped up by an impatient Trajan Bruyne and ready to continue.

70’ – Oh yeah, he was definitely fine. The stocky winger bursts back into action, outmuscling Siorrha’Asione to win a ball on the left flank, cutting inside and somehow squirting straight through Dé before firing a shot high and wide to the right. If that had made it 3-0… whooo-boy. Valvutar would’ve become instantly the most hated man in all of Gellano Fief (if he isn’t already).

75’ – This time it’s Jordan Emery’s turn to come agonizingly close for Mallox! The Valladar winger’s initial shot from outside the box is blocked back out to him, so he tries again on the volley. The follow-up shot is even better than the first, bending away from the goal and back inside the bottom-left corner! It literally hits the inside of the post and back horizontally across the face of goal. So parallel to the goal line that the ball nearly rebounds in off goalkeeper Sirleaf, but she’s hastily able to evade contact and let Morten clear it away.

83’ – Fresh substitute Taka Masatoshi plays a nice combination with Kárpáty and the latter gets off a right-footed rolling shot, but again Mallox’s efforts are thwarted by the goalkeeper Sirleaf. Frustration is setting in now. The Tigers are gesticulating urgently with each other, unable to understand why they haven’t scored.

86’ – Mallox have dominated possession and chances since the second Revanigruud goal, but they nearly let their guard down here. The Riversharks dispossess Till Ümann and break the other way on a rapid counter. Valvutar found Ramirez’s trailing run in the box with a cutback and only Va’Nega’s left post kept the Ramirez’s side-footed shot out.

90’ – It’s really desperate for Mallox now. They’re pressing for it, but even if they get their goal here in stoppage time….. they still need another. And only three minutes have been added.

90+1’ – Mallox’s two teenage attacking substitutes, Masatoshi and Godfred Hjelmgaard, nearly pull off a moment of magic with Kárpáty acting as the decoy, but Hjelmgaard’s first touch let him down on Masatoshi’s final pass and forced him to take a tougher angle on the shot, allowing Sirleaf – yet again – to gobble it up.

90+3’ – Say what you will about Stiin Siorrha’Asione, his mouth and his flamingoes, but the man simply does NOT give up. With the minimum added time already gone, he goes the entire length of the pitch on a Man On A Mission solo run and nearly caps it off with a consolation goal! A last-gasp slide tackle from behind by Morten was required to break it up.

90+4' – The Mallox support in Ramusok are in a bitter uproar! They want a penalty for that tackle! But it’s too little too late, the ref’s whistle is already in her mouth! And that's it! Revanigruud Riversharks have won the King’s Cup! Whoa. They look like they can scarcely believe it themselves.The club representing the least-accessible settlement on the planet Nuur will have a chance to brush elbows with the Multiverse’s elite in the Cygnus Cup.

King’s Cup Final MVP: GK Kiva Sirleaf

Revanigruud Riversharks 2-0 Mallox

King's Cup XVI Champions – REVANIGRUUD RIVERSHARKS

Turnaround seasons for Centus Serpents, Regalia City and FC Flen don’t end in promotion, but getting close counts for something, right? AC Holmenkollen were clearly the best team in Sekundar Ligan this year, and joining them in the big leap are a club founded to study the stars (Treftadaeth Alliance) and a club actually founded amongst the stars (Fevelo Colony). It’s straight back up for the Fevelians. Hopefully their hospitality and logistics improve this time around in addition to their team.

1014 Sekundar Ligan         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  AC Holmenkollen           34   21   7   6    82   52  +30    70  Champions, Promoted, SBCC
 2  Fevelo Colony             34   20   5   9    58   40  +18    65  Promoted, SBCC
 3  Treftadaeth Alliance      34   17  11   6    72   54  +18    62  Promoted (PO), SBCC
 4  Regalia City              34   18   7   9    66   51  +15    61
 5  Centus Serpents           34   17   8   9    39   34   +5    59
 6  Stoneshore United         34   16  10   8    61   48  +13    58
 7  FC Flen                   34   17   6  11    61   56   +5    57
 8  Na'Ilee Mariners          34   14   7  13    59   62   −3    49
 9  Versiaville               34   12  10  12    72   76   −4    46
10  Nomad Brotherhood FC      34   13   6  15    42   50   −8    45
11  Morponte Fief             34   12   8  14    32   41   −9    44
12  IFK Sundsvall             34   12   7  15    54   59   −5    43
13  Ziemelu Skaida            34    9  10  15    52   55   −3    37
14  Gwynt Tywyll              34    9   6  19    31   42  −11    33
15  Revanigruud Riversharks   34    8   8  18    60   71  −11    32  Cygnus Cup
16  Seryddwyr Aberaeron       34    8   7  19    47   63  −16    31  Relegated
17  Riverside Crew            34    8   6  20    28   43  −15    30  Relegated
18  Sindo Fief                34    6   9  19    43   62  −19    27  Relegated


Sekundar Ligan XXVI Champions: AC HOLMENKOLLEN



Silver Ball: (Most Outstanding Player)
  CM Gabrielo Romo

Silver Boot: (Top Scorer)
  ST Lili Riprov (24 goals)

Silver Glove: (Best Goalkeeper)
  GK Andris Berzins

Silver Arrow: (Best U21 Player)
  LWB Baldomero Teijeiro (20)

Sontäfe City wrap up their first-ever promotion from Tredje Ligan, while all of Sekundar Ligan celebrate Pristine Forest FC’s promotion because it means away trips to quirky, mega-liberal haven Hagenheim. Who will join them? Cassandra’s emerging second team? A longtime Sekundar Ligan staple like West Gundar or Fort Archer? Or a mediocre Pardock Island side singlehandedly powered up the table by one star blonde striker?

1014 Tredje Ligan                 Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Sontäfe City                    42   26   6  10    74   42  +32    84  Champions, Promoted
 2  Pristine Forest                 42   23   7  12    65   44  +21    76  Promoted
 3  Pardock Island                  42   21  11  10    78   58  +20    74  Promotion Playoff
 4  Cassandra Cosmopolitan          42   20  11  11    77   60  +17    71  Promotion Playoff
 5  Fort Archer FC                  42   20  10  12    80   61  +19    70  Promotion Playoff
 6  West Gundar                     42   20   8  14    72   64   +8    68  Promotion Playoff
 7  Otkins Numenvernia              42   18  11  13    59   49  +10    65
 8  AFC Obscura 98                  42   17  12  13    74   68   +6    63
 9  SC Torpedo Kejsarkona           42   18   9  15    75   79   −4    63
10  Klyde Heritage                  42   16  13  13    56   51   +5    61
11  Bergtatt Isle Athletic          42   15  12  15    56   59   −3    57
12  White Tower FC                  42   16   9  17    50   55   −5    57
13  AC Sepultura                    42   15   9  18   101   92   +9    54
14  Nuur Origins FC                 42   14  11  17    57   57    0    53
15  Portsmouth FC                   42   13  12  17    53   53    0    51
16  West Devellin                   42   13  12  17    60   71  −11    51
17  Rexnor District 3               42   12  13  17    58   66  −8     49
18  Brayllor Town                   42   12  10  20    34   57   −23   46  Relegated
19  Forest Hill FC                  42    9  17  16    54   71  −17    44  Relegated
20  Esterhollow Harbor              42   11   7  24    49   71  −22    40  Relegated
21  Tierra Interstellar Wanderers   42   10  10  22    49   71  −22    40  Relegated
22  Tornline                        42    9   8  25    49   81  −32    35  Relegated


Tredje Ligan XXVI Champions:




Bronze Ball (Best Player):
  CM/DM Erridupizir Na’Verii

Bronze Boot:
  ST Ann Reus (29 goals)

Promotion Playoffs
3Pardock Island 1–1 West Gundar (1–3 AET)6
4Cassandra Cosmopolitan 5–3 Fort Archer FC5

West Gundar 1-0 Cassandra Cosmopolitan
Promoted to SekundarLigan: 

Lägre Liganes (fourth and fifth tiers) will follow in a later post

[Cosumar]

---

---

1014 Conference Cosumarus  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Atletisk Surpronuk          27   18   5   4    29    9  +20    59  Champions, Promoted
 2 Everlong FC                 27   14  11   2    30   14  +16    53  Promoted
 3 Azure Lane FC               27   15   6   6    42   16  +26    51  Promotion Playoff
 4 Real Bellavista             27   13   8   6    28   18  +10    47  Promotion Playoff
 5 Larkinham Town              27   13   8   6    27   19   +8    47  Promotion Playoff
 6 High Noon FC                27   13   7   7    24   16   +8    46  Promotion Playoff
 7 Volmachtia Kaldukosic       27   14   2  11    28   25   +3    44
 8 Crawford Sharks SC          27   10  13   4    23   14   +9    43
 9 Hvalsey 08                  27   12   6   9    28   20   +8    42
10 Cassandra City II           27   10  10   7    34   26   +8    40
11 Tamiat Town                 27   10  10   7    23   20   +3    40
12 Dvinko Black Heart          27   11   5  11    26   25   +1    38
13 Sarmon                      27    8  13   6    20   17   +3    37
14 Hagenheim South End         27   10   7  10    26   24   +2    37
15 Yambridge City              27    9   7  11    23   23    0    34
16 Highlanders                 27    6  15   6    25   27   −2    33
17 Talmusok City               27    9   6  12    11   15   −4    33
18 Woods of Ypres              27    7  10  10    14   24  −10    31
19 Club Toftir                 27    9   3  15    19   31  −12    30
20 Dawchire Town               27    7   8  12    15   25  −10    29
21 East Devellin               27    7   7  13    21   26   −5    28
22 Black Diamond Osterhaut     27    6  10  11    25   33   −8    28
23 Inter Juta                  27    7   7  13    23   36  −13    28  Relegated (West)
24 Chesterton Cottagers        27    5  10  12    20   27   −7    25  Relegated (East)
25 IFK Karlsborg               27    6   7  14    15   23   −8    25  Relegated (West)
26 Cadonica United             27    7   4  16    26   37  −11    25  Relegated (East)
27 Gladsax Chariot FC          27    4  13  10    13   24  −11    25  Relegated (Central)
28 Cape Dutch Copperheads      27    5   8  14    17   41  −24    23  Relegated (East)

Promotion Playoffs
3Azure Lane FC 2-1 High Noon FC6
4Real Bellavista 1-0 Larkinham Town5

Azure Lane FC 2-2 (3-2 AET) Real Bellavista[/b]
Promoted to TredjeLigan: 

1014 Conference K+C   Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Caledon Legion         38   19  11   8    55   42  +13    68  Champions, Promoted
 2 Aberaeron Celtic       38   18  12   8    65   56   +9    66  Promotion Playoff
 3 Silk FC                38   15  15   8    52   42  +10    60  Promotion Playoff
 4 Rexnor District 5      38   16  11  11    48   40   +8    59  Promotion Playoff
 5 Gnoss Gallants AFC     38   16  10  12    51   38  +13    58  Promotion Playoff
 6 Atlético Oterro        38   15  12  11    61   54   +7    57
 7 Salfa City             38   16   8  14    58   49   +9    56
 8 Sadenia Paladins       38   16   8  14    56   55   +1    56
 9 CD Panteras Nueces     38   16   7  15    44   44    0    55
10 Aläng FF               38   14  11  13    51   56   −5    53
11 Klyde City             38   15   7  16    54   58   −4    52
12 Kalloroda United       38   12  14  12    67   64   +3    50
13 Meryuma Marshals       38   13  11  14    34   33   +1    50
14 Sammet Ridge           38   14   8  16    49   60  −11    50
15 Interstellar Erurok    38   13  10  15    52   50   +2    49
16 Treacherous Cove AFC   38   12  11  15    43   51   −8    47
17 Sólstafir              38   10   9  19    43   52   −9    39  Relegated
18 Drahva United          38    8  14  16    49   61  −12    38  Relegated
19 Kreanoltha Vipers      38    9  10  19    41   54  −13    37  Relegated
20 Templar-Lune FC        38    8  11  19    60   74  −14    35  Relegated

Promotion Playoffs
2Aberaeron Celtic 2-0 Gnoss Gallants AFC5
3Silk FC 1-3 Rexnor District 54

Aberaeron Celtic 1-4 Rexnor District 5
Promoted to TredjeLigan: 

Lägre Ligan 2 - Klyde    Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Emerald Cove              29   17   8   4    54   29  +25    59  Champions, Promoted
 2 Wiedna Town               29   15   9   5    48   36  +12    54  Promoted
 3 VfL Läutenstadt           29   15   4  10    48   39   +9    49
 4 Klyde II                  29   14   7   8    42   34   +8    49
 5 Noumen Town               29   12  11   6    34   29   +5    47
 6 IFK Nordön                29   13   8   8    34   30   +4    47
 7 Wilmontsbloom Blue Star   29   12   9   8    41   33   +8    45
 8 FC Kviststad              29   12   8   9    37   30   +7    44
 9 Usk Town                  29   13   5  11    53   47   +6    44
10 Gibwir Marsnal            29   12   8   9    42   37   +5    44
11 Noths Castle              29   14   2  13    31   32   −1    44
12 FK Pentagram Pjattervid   29   12   6  11    41   36   +5    42
13 Glasbon SC                29   11   9   9    31   27   +4    42
14 Villa Forsetti            29   12   5  12    52   46   +6    41
15 Moggington County         29   12   5  12    39   34   +5    41
16 Erpland County            29   11   8  10    25   22   +3    41
17 Gwerin Athletic           29   10   9  10    46   36  +10    39
18 Orias-Kvissle SC          29    9  12   8    43   43    0    39
19 Hamlack Town              29   11   6  12    39   44   −5    39
20 Baymar Lagune             29   11   4  14    35   40   −5    37
21 Real Azuris II            29    9   9  11    29   34   −5    36
22 Cerulia City FC           29    9   8  12    27   30   −3    35
23 Oxbow Lake                29    9   7  13    32   34   −2    34
24 Oppland 806               29    8  10  11    27   40  −13    34
25 Lindsborg Premier         29    9   6  14    44   50   −6    33
26 Svart-Guld Klingaställe   29    7  10  12    33   39   −6    31
27 Satyricon Nemeses AFC     29    7   9  13    40   51  −11    30
28 Ardamirchan Isle United   29    9   3  17    33   47  −14    30
29 Flithby Town              29    6   9  14    28   47  −19    27
30 Atletisk Kvelertak        29    4   6  19    29   61  −32    18

Lägre Ligan 2 - East     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 AC Opjenheim              29   20   3   6    46   23  +23    63  Champions, Promoted
 2 Wealdheim Bards           29   15   9   5    36   12  +24    54  Promoted
 3 Ingleton Town             29   15   8   6    36   19  +17    53
 4 Östrad Rockets FC         29   14   9   6    31   20  +11    51
 5 Dusk Athletic             29   14   9   6    31   20  +11    51
 6 AFC Centus                29   13  10   6    35   19  +16    49
 7 Somberlain FC             29   14   6   9    37   23  +14    48
 8 Atletisk Östrad           29   15   2  12    34   33   +1    47
 9 IFK Sokuldijak            29   12  10   7    30   24   +6    46
10 Marshall-Blue FC          29   13   6  10    35   25  +10    45
11 AFC Wernersburg           29   12   9   8    34   25   +9    45
12 Paulsendam Town           29   12   8   9    31   18  +13    44
13 Eastweald II              29   12   8   9    29   28   +1    44
14 Interstellar Östrad       29   11  10   8    30   23   +7    43
15 Mallox II                 29   11   9   9    25   22   +3    42
16 IFK Keukenhok             29   11   7  11    24   23   +1    40
17 OAS Royal FC II           29    8  12   9    16   20   −4    36
18 1. FC Guggenheim          29   10   6  13    22   29   −7    36
19 Ramusok United II         29    9   7  13    28   30   −2    34
20 Nabataea                  29    8   9  12    32   46  −14    33
21 FC Samotath II            29    8   9  12    18   34  −16    33
22 Coppell City FC           29    8   7  14    25   31   −6    31
23 FC Stellendam             29    7  10  12    19   32  −13    31
24 Scarromere FC             29    7  10  12    15   28  −13    31
25 Sporting Corrian          29    6  10  13    21   41  −20    28
26 FC Kaldukosic II          29    6  10  13    15   37  −22    28
27 East Gundar               29    7   6  16    22   26   −4    27
28 Zirconim City             29    6   9  14    19   33  −14    27
29 United FC of Stoneshore   29    5   8  16    14   31  −17    23
30 Chittersbee Rangers       29    5   6  18    14   29  −15    21  Relegated

Lägre Ligan 2 - Central  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Sporting Culmar           29   20   5   4    38   16  +22    65  Champions, Promoted
 2 Rhithlungwerddon Town     29   17   4   8    38   19  +19    55  Promoted
 3 Lykathea City             29   17   4   8    25   18   +7    55
 4 Hassaburess Athletic      29   15   9   5    37   12  +25    54
 5 Moore Hill Pirates        29   15   9   5    41   24  +17    54
 6 Jotungard 99 FC           29   15   7   7    38   30   +8    52
 7 Scarborough               29   15   6   8    36   19  +17    51
 8 Malm Town                 29   16   3  10    30   23   +7    51
 9 Ajatarra Alligators       29   14   7   8    32   16  +16    49
10 Gorgoroth                 29   14   7   8    31   22   +9    49
11 SC Cirith 01              29   13   7   9    27   18   +9    46
12 Carnessa County           29   13   7   9    16   14   +2    46
13 Keldin Town               29   13   7   9    24   23   +1    46
14 Nexus Magens FC           29   12   9   8    33   25   +8    45
15 Heofoncandel Uré          29   12   8   9    24   28   −4    44
16 Harlegan Rovers           29   12   7  10    27   24   +3    43
17 FC Invierness 912         29   11   7  11    30   26   +4    40
18 Mintwick Marmots          29    8  10  11    27   31   −4    34
19 Attumac Wanderers         29    7  10  12    24   29   −5    31
20 Goldsoul FC               29    9   4  16    22   29   −7    31
21 Taigaenplats              29    7   8  14    20   30  −10    29
22 Club Varden               29    8   5  16    16   27  −11    29
23 FC Kastanjestad           29    8   5  16    14   27  −13    29
24 Briquia Southside FC      29    7   8  14    21   43  −22    29
25 Morponte Fief II          29    6   9  14    12   24  −12    27
26 Columbia Town             29    7   5  17    21   32  −11    26
27 Impera Town               29    6   8  15    11   26  −15    26
28 Ombra Castle              29    7   4  18    16   32  −16    25
29 Austentrapp City FC       29    6   6  17    16   39  −23    24
30 FC Fejd                   29    6   3  20    18   39  −21    21

Lägre Ligan 2 - West      Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Falco Na'Diveh             29   16   9   4    27   10  +17    57  Champions, Promoted
 2 Gamma City Zakhoro         29   15   9   5    32   21  +11    54  Promoted
 3 Sporting Pirankoper        29   15   7   7    37   19  +18    52
 4 SC Swamport                29   15   6   8    30   19  +11    51
 5 Olympique Sur Mer          29   15   5   9    33   21  +12    50
 6 FC Arkadius                29   14   7   8    34   20  +14    49
 7 Red Star Karbosic          29   13  10   6    30   27   +3    49
 8 Duval Town                 29   13   9   7    23   13  +10    48
 9 Bayford City               29   13   6  10    35   23  +12    45
10 Theli City                 29   11  11   7    24   18   +6    44
11 FC Na'Travii               29   12   7  10    25   22   +3    43
12 FC1. Richtofen Avalanche   29   11   8  10    32   36   −4    41
13 Klovstad Klub              29    9  12   8    24   22   +2    39
14 Stortrommeby Town          29    9  12   8    22   23   −1    39
15 West Ellum                 29    9  11   9    25   20   +5    38
16 Drummond's FC              29   10   8  11    25   20   +5    38
17 Chamomile Town             29   10   7  12    23   30   −7    37
18 FC Va'Lubasa               29    8  11  10    30   30    0    35
19 Thergothon                 29    8  11  10    11   13   −2    35
20 Tromsdale Town             29    8  11  10    18   23   −5    35
21 Grayslake                  29    8  10  11    28   28    0    34
22 Yellow Meadow Lynwood      29    9   7  13    25   33   −8    34
23 Yuonela Town               29    8   7  14    23   31   −8    31
24 East Ellum                 29    9   4  16    21   34  −13    31
25 Crawford City FC II        29    7   9  13    16   34  −18    30
26 SEP Bjärnum                29    7   8  14    17   34  −17    29
27 Ayr Athletic               29    5  13  11    20   28   −8    28
28 Miklagaard Salvation       29    7   7  15    17   36  −19    28
29 Goldstaff Athletic         29    5  12  12    14   21   −7    27
30 Rhupenhoven Town           29    6   6  17    19   31  −12    24

Lägre Ligan 2 - Colonial  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Rhodes Ravens AFC          29   16   7   6    48   26  +22    55  Champions, Promoted
 2 Levithia Shrievenzale      29   16   7   6    41   24  +17    55  Promoted
 3 Ciems Mungonduvia          29   15   7   7    37   22  +15    52
 4 Orion Wanderers            29   13  11   5    52   30  +22    50
 5 FC Dynamo Kurbads          29   13  10   6    53   31  +22    49
 6 Marinus City               29   13   9   7    41   27  +14    48
 7 Sporting Club Macofor      29   14   6   9    56   44  +12    48
 8 Rexnor District 7          29   14   6   9    41   33   +8    48
 9 Dockery Union              29   12  11   6    21   12   +9    47
10 Piander Falls FC           29   13   7   9    29   30   −1    46
11 Rexnor District 9          29   12   9   8    45   44   +1    45
12 Murkwaamp Suns             29   11  11   7    33   25   +8    44
13 Tranquility Treepolis      29   10  11   8    32   26   +6    41
14 Whitestone Athletic        29   11   8  10    28   34   −6    41
15 Rexnor District 8          29   12   4  13    24   24    0    40
16 New Hagenheim Canopy       29   11   7  11    29   36   −7    40
17 NOVIA Alliance             29   10   8  11    28   26   +2    38
18 Snaigow Hoarfrost          29    9  10  10    26   26    0    37
19 Menoptera United SC        29    9  10  10    14   14    0    37
20 Romstafar Outpost          29    9   8  12    15   18   −3    35
21 Varvonti Firestorm         29   10   5  14    26   36  −10    35
22 Exxeco Station             29    9   7  13    25   32   −7    34
23 Tonsei Tumult              29    7  12  10    25   30   −5    33
24 Buscari Bridge Force       29    5  15   9    24   24    0    30
25 Rexnor District 6          29    8   5  16    12   26  −14    29
26 Alstagruuket Sarlaccs FC   29    5  13  11    22   33  −11    28
27 Borzac Sequins             29    7   7  15    22   41  −19    28
28 Rexnor District 2          29    7   5  17    27   47  −20    26
29 Rexnor District 4          29    4   9  16    22   51  −29    21
30 SC Vronus 510              29    5   5  19    30   56  −26    20  Relegated

[Cosumar]

Basketball is one of Cosumar's "Big 3" team sports, after Association and Gridiron Football. Our top professional league, the Cosumar Basketball Association (CBA), can be considered one of the top leagues in the Multiverse. It supplies talent to the Cosumar national team, which has won the International Basketball Championship. Individual CBA teams have also had international success. In the old days, cornerstone franchise Kaldukosic Krushers would represent Cosumar in the IBC themselves. More recently, the Goldstaff Lightning won the IUBC MultiverseBasket (Cosumar's second).

Following the NBA model, the CBA consists of 32 teams. 16 in the Eastern Conference and 16 in the Western Conference, though the West also includes teams from Cosumar's extraterrestrial colonies because that region is less populated than eastern Cosumar. After a season of 62 games, the top eight teams in each conference advance to a playoff for the CBA Title. Best of 5 series in the playoffs until the Conference Finals, when it transitions to Best of 7. Here's how the recent 1013 season turned out:

Season X (1014) - Regular Season

Eastern Conference     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
 1 Kaldukosic Krushers     62   52  10  5198 4418 +780
 2 Stoneshore SeaDevils    62   48  14  5018 4257 +761
 3 OAS Ocelots             62   47  15  5028 4484 +544
 4 Gundar Basket           62   45  17  4904 4418 +486
 5 Overkill BC             62   39  23  4824 4629 +195
 6 Dawchire Rage           62   39  23  4703 4541 +162
 7 Havok du Kaldukosic     62   37  25  4733 4527 +206
 8 Mallox Mavericks        62   36  26  4878 4521 +357
-------------------------^PLAYOFFS^--------------------
 9 Cassandra Flames        62   35  27  4715 4620  +95
10 South Klyde Sparks      62   27  35  4633 4842 −209
11 North Klyde Imps        62   27  35  4495 4849 −354
12 Parougan Plague         62   25  37  4651 4800 −149
13 Altamirano Artillery    62   22  40  4554 4995 −441
14 Samotath Slayers        62   21  41  4557 4879 −322
15 Ramusok Empire          62   18  44  4524 4853 −329
16 Östrad Spacefolk        62   17  45  4411 4907 −496

The Krushers had a vintage dominant season, hearkening back to the early days of Cosumarite basketball when they were champions for basically a straight decade. Young forward Saturnius Warman has become the league's most versatile force and an unstoppable post and midrange scorer. With a savvy veteran backcourt behind Warman including national team regular Bjarne Herjúlfsson and a surprise rookie sensation in 3-and-D stalwart Ookuhoo Na'Sukahu to compliment and cover his blemishes, the Krushers were a team that lived up to their name this season. They led the East the whole way and were the only CBA team to reach 50 wins this year. Don't forget about defending champions Gundar Basket though. With a Top 5 player in Tarran Skannendev and a streaky three-point shooting team that can turn it on at any time, they'll be a threat to the Krushers in the playoffs, even if Stoneshore's sudden rejuvenation turns out to be a mirage.

Western Conference     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
 1 Na'Ilee Maelstrom       62   48  14  4999 4343 +656
 2 Helfin Fief Heathens    62   42  20  4884 4464 +420
 3 Goldstaff Lightning     62   40  22  4872 4520 +352
 4 Mortim Morbid Angels    62   39  23  4884 4541 +343
 5 Crawford Cormorants     62   39  23  4808 4627 +181
 6 Pelethas Mastodons      62   34  28  4623 4690  −67
 7 Dusk Wolfpack           62   30  32  4697 4693   +4
 8 Pirankoper Kings        62   29  33  4853 4759  +94
-------------------------^PLAYOFFS^--------------------
 9 Olask Tentacles         62   25  37  4739 4747   −8
10 Jotungard Giants        62   24  38  4630 4822 −192
11 Zakhoro Porcupines      62   23  39  4524 4887 −363
12 Culmarland Warmasters   62   19  43  4509 4896 −387
13 Fort Archer Guerillas   62   18  44  4515 5128 −613
14 Versiaville Voyagers    62   17  45  4413 4875 −462
15 Flen Sorcerers          62   16  46  4355 5001 −646
16 Rexnor Skyforgers       62   14  48  4382 4980 −598

The traditional balance of power has shifted and the West is now definitely the weaker conference, but the Na'Ilee Maelstrom remain an elite team in the ascendancy - perhaps the only one out west. Sure, the Heathens have Amanda Inyuta and the Lightning have Case Scanlon, but they're very much one-star teams... and their records against the Maelstrom show it. The islanders have the league's best center in Ovu Va'Devu as well as a cadre of players that are near the all-star level. Arguably their biggest star, however, is coach Kapellan Brisendine, a young basketball mastermind who could arguably make the playoffs with any of the league's 32 rosters. Overall though, it's a disappointing year for Western Conference fans. The exact same teams made the playoffs as last year, which means none of last year's chasing pack were able to build much or take a step forward. Trust the process, right? Well, that's being tested in places like Flen and Rexnor Colony that have seemingly been bad forever.

---

CBA Playoffs First Round

East 1v8
Kaldukosic Krushers 73–60 Mallox Mavericks
Kaldukosic Krushers 68–72 Mallox Mavericks
Kaldukosic Krushers 77–67 Mallox Mavericks
Kaldukosic Krushers 79–60 Mallox Mavericks

#1 Kaldukosic Krushers advance 3-1, to the surprise of no one


East 4v5
Gundar Basket 73–67 Overkill BC
Gundar Basket 84–73 Overkill BC
Gundar Basket 83–59 Overkill BC

#4 Gundar Basket advance 3-0, progressively better with each win. Look out, Krushers.


East 2v7
Stoneshore SeaDevils 93–78 Havok du Kaldukosic
Stoneshore SeaDevils 71–85 Havok du Kaldukosic
Stoneshore SeaDevils 61–67 Havok du Kaldukosic
Stoneshore SeaDevils 84–62 Havok du Kaldukosic
Stoneshore SeaDevils 92–62 Havok du Kaldukosic

#2 Stoneshore SeaDevils advance 3-2, aging talisman Ben Seymour hitting the big buckets in Games 4+5.


East 3v6
OAS Ocelots 94–58 Dawchire Rage
OAS Ocelots 95–50 Dawchire Rage
OAS Ocelots 78–55 Dawchire Rage

#3 OAS Ocelots advance 3-0, in the biggest blowout series in CBA history


----------------------------------------------


West 1v8
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 80–84 Pirankoper Kings
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 65–74 Pirankoper Kings
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 86–65 Pirankoper Kings
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 82–60 Pirankoper Kings
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 75–64 Pirankoper Kings

#1 Na'Ilee Maelstrom advance 3-2, averting historic disaster after losing their two home games to start.


West 4v5
Mortim Morbid Angels 68–72 Crawford Cormorants
Mortim Morbid Angels 76–75 Crawford Cormorants
Mortim Morbid Angels 59–78 Crawford Cormorants
Mortim Morbid Angels 76–69 Crawford Cormorants
Mortim Morbid Angels 64–63 Crawford Cormorants

#4 Mortim Morbid Angels advance 3-2, Robinson Kamara's fall-away Game 5 buzzer-beater already legendary.


West 2v7
Helfin Fief Heathens 99–64 Dusk Wolfpack
Helfin Fief Heathens 80–67 Dusk Wolfpack
Helfin Fief Heathens 91–83 Dusk Wolfpack

#2 Helfin Fief Heathens advance 3-0, dominant on both ends. Losing record Dusk shouldn't be in playoffs.


West 3v6
Goldstaff Lightning 77–66 Pelethas Mastodons
Goldstaff Lightning 60–66 Pelethas Mastodons
Goldstaff Lightning 79–86 Pelethas Mastodons
Goldstaff Lightning 84–59 Pelethas Mastodons
Goldstaff Lightning 85–60 Pelethas Mastodons

#3 Goldstaff Lightning advance 3-2, surviving an unexpected test from unheralded Pelethas.

Second Round

East 1v4
Kaldukosic Krushers 75–77 Gundar Basket
Kaldukosic Krushers 78–73 Gundar Basket
Kaldukosic Krushers 92–71 Gundar Basket
Kaldukosic Krushers 98–76 Gundar Basket

#1 Kaldukosic Krushers advance 3-1, taking strong control after a highly competitive first two games. Champs out.

East 2v3
Stoneshore SeaDevils 76–78 OAS Ocelots
Stoneshore SeaDevils 84–91 OAS Ocelots
Stoneshore SeaDevils 81–57 OAS Ocelots
Stoneshore SeaDevils 67–73 OAS Ocelots

#3 OAS Ocelots advance 3-1, breaking Stoneshore hearts on the road late in Games 1 & 2.

----------------------------------------------

West 1v4
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 110–61 Mortim Morbid Angels
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 79–71 Mortim Morbid Angels
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 94–60 Mortim Morbid Angels

#1 Na'Ilee Maelstrom advance 3-0, Va'Devu with 20+ rebounds in all three games.

West 2v3
Helfin Fief Heathens 93–71 Goldstaff Lightning
Helfin Fief Heathens 62–75 Goldstaff Lightning
Helfin Fief Heathens 75–72 Goldstaff Lightning
Helfin Fief Heathens 79–79 (88–87 OT) Goldstaff Lightning

#2 Helfin Fief Heathens advance 3-1, coming back from down 34 to force overtime in the decisive Game 4.

Conference Finals

Eastern Conference Finals (1v3)
Kaldukosic Krushers 77–90 OAS Ocelots
Kaldukosic Krushers 85–83 OAS Ocelots
Kaldukosic Krushers 64–66 OAS Ocelots
Kaldukosic Krushers 69–79 OAS Ocelots
Kaldukosic Krushers 99–61 OAS Ocelots
Kaldukosic Krushers 68–83 OAS Ocelots

#3 OAS Ocelots advance 4-2, toppling the favorites to win it all. Lucianne Baudrillard, fantastic center.


West Finals (1v2)
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 82–83 Helfin Fief Heathens
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 78–92 Helfin Fief Heathens
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 75–69 Helfin Fief Heathens
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 86–81 Helfin Fief Heathens
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 96–76 Helfin Fief Heathens
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 78–63 Helfin Fief Heathens

#1 Na'Ilee Maelstrom advance 4-2, Brisendine found solutions to halt Helfin's red-hot offense after Game 2.

CBA FINALS!

West Champion v East Champion

Na'Ilee Maelstrom 76–79 OAS Ocelots
Na'Ilee Maelstrom 85–70 OAS Ocelots

The underdogs steal the opener of the Na'Ilee leg,
but Va'Devu and the Maelstrom answer back with a stout defensive
performance in Game 2. Maelstrom 1-1 Ocelots.

OAS Ocelots 79–75 Na'Ilee Maelstrom
OAS Ocelots 95–77 Na'Ilee Maelstrom

The Ocelots are a fast fastbreak team and, fired up at home
and forcing turnovers, were just too much for the more traditional Maelstrom. 
They leave their fans in Ramusok with exhilirating belief. Ocelots 3-1 Maelstrom.

Na'Ilee Maelstrom 85–68 OAS Ocelots

But the passionate crowd in Na'Ilee still believes too. Maelstrom extend
the series with a performance of suffocating intensity at home. Ocelots 3-2 Maelstrom.

OAS Ocelots 90–84 Na'Ilee Maelstrom

...But the series returns to the Royal District and Na'Ilee just can't 
replicate it on the road, yet again. Maelstrom have a six-point halftime lead after
leading by double-digits for most of the first half, but the Ocelots use a big third quarter
to put them back on their heels. Main man Va'Devu looked weary and, well, ready for
vacation already when the feisty Ocelots capped off a 18-5 run.

Congrats to OAS OCELOTS, hereby crowned 1014 CBA Champions after winning 4-2!

The central storyline of the 1014 Finals was the battle between the top two centers in the league, Ovu Va'Devu of Na'Ilee and Lucianne Baudrillard of OAS. The two have battled for national team pecking order over the last couple IBCs, so it was fascinating to watch them battle it out on Cosumar's biggest stage. To the surprise of most bookies, Baudrillard came out on top. Though she lacks Va'Devu's brawn and unstoppable rebounding, she was able to outsmart him and score important points when her team needed her, and did just enough defensively to frustrate and contain him somewhat.

This marks the first CBA title for both the Ocelots franchise and City of Ramusok. The Ocelots finally got to the big game after three straight season in the top three of the East. For the Maelstrom, it is two consecutive defeats at the doorstep of their own Finals breakthrough, the trophy cabinet remaining bare despite being dominant over the last two regular and postseasons. By stopping Na'Ilee short again, the Ocelots have also maintained the newfound hegemony that was established last season when Gundar Basket stopped a streak of five consecutive Western Conference winners.



AWARDS TIME!

Finals MVP: 
Lucianne Baudrillard (C, OAS Ocelots)

Regular Season MVP:
Saturnius Warman (F, Kaldukosic Krushers)

Scoring Champion: 
Saturnius Warman (F, Kaldukosic Krushers)

Rookie of the Year: 
Sofka Starzynski (G/F, Stoneshore SeaDevils)

Defensive Player of the Year: 
Ovu Va'Devu (C, Na'Ilee Maelstrom)

Sixth Man of the Year:
Robinson Kamara (SG, Mortim Morbid Angels)
 
Most Improved Player: 
Ilian Dvokonen (F, Havok du Kaldukosic)

Coach of the Year: 
Greg Dunseth (Kaldukosic Krushers)

[Cosumar]

Cosumar Lacrosse League -- Season VII (1014)

The CLL is one of the newest and most exciting professional sport leagues in Cosumar. Thanks to sustained success in the World Lacrosse Championships, Cosumarites have rallied around the sport and a rabid supporters' culture has emerged. Though the CLL's attendance and TV ratings are still dwarfed by association and gridiron football, its surging niche popularity and high quality of play have made Cosumar something of an international leader for the sport.

In the seventh CLL season since its major reformation, 28 teams will duke it out to be one of the 12 teams to make the playoffs after a single round-robin of 27 games. The best regular season team takes home a trophy called the Silver Shield in addition to home field advantage throughout the playoffs. The ultimate prize, however, that only one will take home, is the Sheppard Trophy - named after the greatest player in Cosumarite lacrosse history, Tracy Sheppard.


Past Winners:
Season I: Olask Empire
Season II: Crawford Lions
Season III: Altamirano Apes
Season IV: Centus Journeymen
Season V: Ramusok Rhinos
Season VI: Klyde Guardians
Season VII: _____ ???


Last season, the Altamirano regular-season dynaaty took the Silver Shield yet again, but they crashed out in the first round of the playoffs and allowed the Guardians to swoop in for the Sheppard Trophy.

In 1014, the Guardians continued riding high without the slightest trace of a title hangover, obliterating most of the league for an all-time record of 24 wins. Most improved were second-year expansion franchise Attumac Kokopelli, drumming up raucous support out in the Attumac desert that could not have been foreseen and capturing their first playoff berth. Longtime staples like the Ramusok Rhinos, Mallox Mayhem and Apes remained strong in the face of new competition, however, and continued to be the class of the CLL.

CLL Season VII          Pld    W   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Klyde Guardians          27   24   3   334  200 +134    72    Silver Shield - Playoffs - Bye
 2 Mallox Mayhem            27   21   6   365  240 +125    63    Playoffs - Bye
 3 Ramusok Rhinos           27   21   6   343  249  +94    63    Playoffs - Bye
 4 Samotath Wyverns         27   20   7   291  240  +51    60    Playoffs - Bye
 5 Altamirano Apes          27   18   9   326  249  +77    54    Playoffs
 6 Cassandra Coroners       27   17  10   297  262  +35    51    Playoffs
 7 Zakhoro Immortals        27   17  10   298  287  +11    51    Playoffs
 8 Crawford Lions           27   16  11   273  245  +28    48    Playoffs
 9 Nexus Magens LC          27   15  12   289  243  +46    45    Playoffs
10 Attumac Kokopelli        27   15  12   290  263  +27    45    Playoffs
11 Surpronuk Snowstorm      27   15  12   274  288  −14    45    Playoffs
12 Versiaville Varyags      27   15  12   263  285  −22    45    Playoffs
13 Na'Ilee Neptunians       27   14  13   305  286  +19    42
14 Dawchire Doom            27   14  13   281  274   +7    42
15 Holmenkollen Wanderers   27   14  13   254  260   −6    42
16 Kalloroda Cardinals      27   13  14   283  275   +8    39
17 Olask Aurochs            27   13  14   268  287  −19    39
18 Flen Salamanders         27   13  14   251  283  −32    39
19 Hvalsey Undertakers LC   27   11  16   271  275   −4    33
20 Samaj Samurai            27   11  16   235  245  −10    33
21 Fort Archer Fire Ants    27   11  16   255  277  −22    33
22 Dvinko Hellions          27   11  16   262  289  −27    33
23 Duversia Death           27   10  17   240  298  −58    30
24 Centus Journeymen        27    8  19   225  320  −95    24
25 Kaldukosic Oblivion      27    7  20   257  309  −52    21
26 Stoneshore Pirates       27    6  21   216  281  −65    18
27 Pirankoper Musketeers    27    4  23   234  348 −114    12
28 LC Hagenheim             27    4  23   209  331 −122    12

CLL Sheppard Trophy Playoffs - First Round

Oh man... the Apes have slipped on the first-round banana peel AGAIN. They're the winningest franchise in the CLL's young history by some distance, yet they probably won't be the first team to win two titles. The underdog fariy tale of the Attumac Kokopelli also comes to an end here at the hands of a seasoned, veteran Zakhoro team. The real highlight of the round, however, is the Cassandra Coroner's come-from-behind OT win, their home fans rallying them back from a 7-3 deficit to tie the game at 9.

8v9
Crawford Lions 14–6 Nexus Magens LC

5v12
Altamirano Apes 13–15 Versiaville Varyags

7v10
Zakhoro Immortals 15–7 Attumac Kokopelli

6v11
Cassandra Coroners 9–9 (11–10 OT) Surpronuk Snowstorm



CLL Sheppard Trophy Playoffs - Second Round

Lots of close ones here, including a Härlighet Ligan rivalry spilling over into lacrosse in the 3v6 match-up. Oh yeah, except for the Guardians and Lions. Oof. Talk about a pasting on the pitch...

1v8
Klyde Guardians 18–4 Crawford Lions

4v12
Samotath Wyverns 12–8 Versiaville Varyags

2v7
Mallox Mayhem 10–9 Zakhoro Immortals

3v6
Ramusok Rhinos 13–12 Cassandra Coroners



CLL Sheppard Trophy Playoffs - Semifinal

The top four seeds all took advantage of their byes and made it to the semifinal. Ultimately though, the Guardians' defense just continues to be too strong even for good offenses to crack. Hollen Oakenfour might be getting up their at 34 years of age, but the national team captain is still the best defender Cosumar has to offer. Did you see her last-second wrist-swat to dislodge the ball from the Wyverns' right forward when he was about to score on open net before half time??? Defense won the day in the other semifinal too, as the Mayhem's tenacious young defender Katz Brunner shut down Rhinos star Hazel Cathclove.

1v4
Klyde Guardians 9–4 Samotath Wyverns

2v3
Mallox Mayhem 15–10 Ramusok Rhinos




CLL SHEPPARD TROPHY FINAL

This will be a defensive final. The Klyde Guardians are an impervious defense and the Mayhem are comfortable playing a physical, grinding style too. They were the 1st and 3rd-best defenses in the CLL regular season. That said, Mallox can't allow Klyde to play this game on their defensive terms. If it's a pure defensive battle, Klyde will win because they are simply the better defense. Do the Mayhem have the tools at their disposal to shake things up and force the Guardians out of their comfort zone?? If they do, they might just be able to stop Klyde Guardians from becoming the first repeat-winners of the Sheppard Trophy.

1v2
Klyde Guardians 4–10 Mallox Mayhem

And they pull off the stunner! More surprising is the way they did, becoming the first team to score 10 on the Guardians all year. Credit to the Mayhem coaching staff for devising new tactics just for this game that stretched Klyde out of shape.
The MALLOX MAYHEM have won the Cosumar Lacrosse League, lifting the Sheppard Trophy for the first time. They are the 1014 CLL Champions. As first-time winners, they are the seventh new team in a row to win the CLL. The league continues to wait for its first multiple-time champion (the window is still open for ya, Altamirano...)

[Cosumar]

The Cosumar Football League (CFL) is Cosumar's highest level of gridiron football. The CFL was formed in 994, uniting two rival leagues that divided Cosumar for decades: the Cosumarite Association of Football (CAF) and Fiefdom Football Alliance (FFA). The CAF became the "Silver Conference", while the FFA became the "Blue Conference". A fierce enmity still lingers between the two groups of teams, which makes the postseason meeting of the two conference champions ("the Dragon Bowl") even more exhilarating. For its first 14 editions, the CFL had a total of 34 teams, with 17 in each conference. At the moment, the CFL is the second-most popular sporting league in Cosumar behind only Härlighet Ligan soccer. Some teams share large multi-use stadiums with HL clubs.

However, a seismic shift to the league's structure is was introduced two seasons ago for the 15th anniversary.

>>>To foster more intense local rivalries, reduce travel costs and slightly expand the league while keeping the traditional Blue/Silver groupings intact, the conferences were further divided into four nine-team divisions: Blue East & Blue West, Silver East & Silver West. Now with 36 total teams in the league, as arena league powers Jotungard Goblins and Sundsvall Penguins transitioned in. Each team will play the other teams in its Division twice, keeping a 16-game schedule. The top four from each division advance to the CFL Playoffs, which still features Blue and Silver Conference Championships preceding the Dragon Bowl. <<<.

Dragon Bowl Champions:
I: Jädde Brutes
II: Kaldukosic Blazers
III: Kaldukosic Kataklysm
IV: Sarmon Spirit
V: Morponte Marauders
VI: Sarmon Spirit (2)
VII: Kaldukosic Blazers (2)
VIII: Morponte Marauders (2)
IX: Zakhoro Wolfpack
X: Versiaville Vikings
XI: Pelethas Thuner
XII: Emerald Cove Conquistadors
XIII: Versiaville Vikings (2)
XIV: Bayford Blue Dragons
XV: Hagenheim Vagabonds
XVI: Samaj Spartans (link to last season)
XVII: _____ _____???

CFL Season XVII (1014) - Regular Season

In the Silver East Division, the Dawchire Eagles remained as balanced and tough to move the ball against as ever. Pundits were looking for this to be the year they started to show cracks - with defensive veterans like Toby Tancredi, Feanor Eldarthal and Marco Emiliano pushing up there a bit in age - but that was not the case. Nic Perrantes is perhaps the league's best overall back on the other side of the ball, allowing the Eagles to control the game flow and allow their savvy defense to shine with a lightened load and avoid injury. Allowing just 12 PPG, the Eagles look like a team built for the playoffs. Can anyone take them down? There are no immediate favorites to do so. It was a lackluster Silver East campaign outside of Tamarskand Fief. Opjenheim had a feelgood season by their humble historic standards, propelled to the playoffs thanks to a career-best season from former Stoneshore College QB Sylvester Marcoux and a league-high 8 interceptions by versatile defensive back Iain O'Somni. But they're suspect in the trenches and the only other team above them in the division standings, the Kataklysm, somehow got there with a -43 point differential. The Centus Owls, meanwhile, were massively disappointing. Coming off an appearance in last year's Dragon Bowl, they lost quarterback Enok Rye to injury early on and just... tanked.

Silver Conference East      Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts 
 1 Dawchire Eagles              16   12   4   318  206 +112    12  Playoffs
 2 Kaldukosic Kataklysm         16   10   6   279  322  −43    10  Playoffs
 3 Opjenheim Bulldogs           16    9   7   281  230  +51     9  Playoffs
 4 Mallox Iron Tigers           16    9   7   295  289   +6     9  Playoffs
 5 Jädde Brutes                 16    9   7   315  234  +81     9
 6 Dusk Bearcats                16    7   9   293  283  +10     7
 7 OAS Kingsmen                 16    7   9   240  306  −66     7
 8 Centus Owls                  16    6  10   294  271  +23     6
 9 Surpronuk Marsh Monsters     16    3  13   234  408 −174     3

In the Silver West Division, the story of the season is new Dolphins QB Melissa Ombudsman. The rookie out of Ostrad University immediately filled the shoes of just-retired Olask legend Esben Oesterwind with confidence and verve. They seem to be one of those lucky franchises that just goes straight from one Franchise QB to the next - without the customary in-between years of wandering the desert. Ombudsman made her share of rookie mistakes, but came through when it mattered in a 6-2 record down the stretch. She showed plenty of promise with her cannon arm and surprising physicality in the pocket - always bouncing off would-be sacks. Nevertheless, the Silver West remains Jarvan Voger, Kenji Toyashimo and Jeston Boulware's division until further notice. Yes, all three of Cosumar's World Bowl QBs are in this division, which remains one of the toughest in history, and all three also guided their teams to the playoffs. Can 21-year-old Ombudsman go toe-to-toe with these legendary veteran QBs in the playoffs?

Silver Conference West      Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts 
 1 Bayford Blue Dragons         16   11   5   322  221 +101    11  Playoffs
 2 Olask Dolphins               16   10   6   373  277  +96    10  Playoffs
 3 Hagenheim Vagabonds          16   10   6   370  282  +88    10  Playoffs
 4 Morponte Marauders           16    9   7   365  312  +53     9  Playoffs
 5 Versiaville Vikings          16    8   8   281  337  −56     8
 6 Crawford Comrades            16    8   8   298  313  −15     8
 7 Flen Jaguars                 16    7   9   323  341  −18     7
 8 Cassandra Wildcats           16    6  10   274  300  −26     6
 9 Sundsvall Penguins           16    3  13   205  428 −223     3

Over in the Blue East Division, the Ramusok Stars somehow return to the playoffs despite shredding their roster (oldest in the league last season) over the off-season and throwing a bunch of inexperienced youngsters into the fire. Just goes to show how much an established winning culture can lift a franchise above its talent level (at least temporarily). Of course, the Samotath Scourge are class, proving last year's emergence was no fluke. Francis Hibbert and Madison Weeldreyer (the lague's most prolific QB-to-WR connection this season), Colin Trindal, Mohammed Mussic and Sveinn Sneijder all made the All-Cosumar first team. So much talent up north these days. Brandon Reigner is still slinging it around the field with breathtaking ease for Emerald Cove too. The Conquistadors will always be a threat as long as the 38-year-old multiple-time champion is still strapping on the pads. Rounding out the four playoff places in the Blue East are the Hvalsey Lions, powered almost single-handedly by Peri Fothergill dynamic running-and-gunning QB play. The Klydian teams badly disappoint their perceived talent level (what else is new) and traditional powers Kaldukosic and Sarmon miss out despite showing a lot of good stuff this season themselves. The Predators, finally, are dire. Why are we even mentioning them? Pretty sure Stoneshore College would've done better than their paltry two wins.

Blue Conference East        Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts 
 1 Samotath Scourge             16   12   4   354  278  +76    12  Playoffs
 2 Emerald Cove Conquistadors   16   10   6   348  250  +98    10  Playoffs
 3 Hvalsey Lions                16   10   6   374  291  +83    10  Playoffs
 4 Ramusok Stars                16   10   6   309  283  +26    10  Playoffs
 5 Sarmon Spirit                16    9   7   350  351   −1     9
 6 Kaldukosic Blazers           16    9   7   351  306  +45     9
 7 Klyde Cyclones               16    6  10   322  331   −9     6
 8 Azuris Anthrax               16    4  12   296  437 −141     4
 9 Stoneshore Predators         16    2  14   305  482 −177     2

In the Blue West Division, the Venom return with a vengeance. Many were down on this team after last season's struggles, but Ra'ef Nimmo-Dirksen proved he can still be one of the best play-action QBs when he has the proper talent and gameplan around him, throwing 30 TDs to only 3 INTs. Most responsible for the Venom's, well, venom was that pass rush spearheaded by Kol Chessmore and Cygnus Cason, however. With both of them fully healthy together for all sixteen games for the first time, they ripped and sacked their way to a league-best point-differential and forced fumble tally. A couple blowouts of mind-boggling magnitude against the dreadful Altamirano Devils bloated their goal-differential more than a little, but still. But the Venom aren't the only Dragon Bowl contender out west. Former arena team Jotungard Goblins announced themselves as a credible new threat with a defense led by young rising stars like Imrik Karevik and Nakas Berryman-Daguenais. Juho Kotipelto isn't a top CFL QB by sheer arm or leg talent, but he makes good decisions and is efficient beyond his years in Jotungard's "death by a thousand cuts" offense. The defending champion Spartans also quietly put themselves in good position to make a title defense run, and the Keenan Robins got hot at the end of the season to edge more-fancied Helfin and Pelethas for the final spot. But they're probably just first-round fodder for someone with their porous secondary.

 Blue Conference West        Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts 
 1 Na'Ilee Venom                16   12   4   475  304 +171    12  Playoffs
 2 Jotungard Goblins            16   12   4   400  247 +153    12  Playoffs
 3 Samaj Spartans               16   11   5   385  282 +103    11  Playoffs
 4 Keenan Robins                16    9   7   374  327  +47     9  Playoffs
 5 Helfin Mighty Men            16    8   8   332  372  −40     8
 6 Pelethas Thunder             16    7   9   259  283  −24     7
 7 Zakhoro Wolfpack             16    7   9   327  340  −13     7
 8 Pirankoper Dwarves           16    4  12   305  416 −111     4
 9 Altamirano Devils            16    2  14   192  478 −286     2

Playoff Match-ups

Silver Conference

₁Dawchire Eagles (13-3) vs. ₄Mallox Iron Tigers (9-7)

₂Kaldukosic Kataklysm (10-6) vs. ₃Opjenheim Bulldogs (9-7)


₁Bayford Blue Dragons (11-5) vs. ₄Morponte Marauders (9-7)

₂Olask Dolphins (10-6) vs. ₃Hagenheim Vagabonds (10-6)




Blue Conference

₁Samotath Scourge (12-4) vs. ₄Ramusok Stars (10-6)

₂Emerald Cove Conquistadors (10-6) vs. ₃Hvalsey Lions (10-6)


₁Na'Ilee Venom (12-4) vs. ₄Keenan Robins (9-7)

₂Jotungard Goblins (12-4) vs. ₃Samaj Spartans[/b] (11-5)

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Finnegan Trophy XIII

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The most criticized aspect of the CFL season is the lack of inter-conference games. Aside from the Dragon Bowl, teams from opposite conferences can't meet in meaningful games. Purists who preferred the CAF and FFA separate wanted to keep it that way, but the younger and more casual fans wanted to see, say, Kaldukosic's Kataklysm and Blazers clash more often. The league heartily agreed, seeing the publicity potential of such duels. To appease both sides, The Finnegan Trophy was introduced.

The tournament runs concurrently to the CFL season but separate, like a soccer-style cup. Named after former national team coach Gary Finnegan, it features 32 teams (all but the last-place finisher in each division from the prior season) in a straight single-elimination bracket. Teams are pitted against a random opponent from the opposite conference in the first round, and from there, the chips fall where they may. It's madness, but it's quality entertainment. What's at stake? In addition to prize money, the winning team automatically receives one of Cosumar's allotted spots in international competition (along with the Dragon Bowl victor and best regular season record from each conference) as well as an additional draft pick at the end of the first round. That last bit is often the strongest incentive for teams to go for it.

Past Winners
I: Kaldukosic Kataklysm
II: Stoneshore Predators
III: Kaldukosic Kataklysm (2)
IV: Bayford Blue Dragons
V: Kaldukosic Blazers
VI: Morponte Marauders
VII: Kaldukosic Blazers (2)
VIII: Na'Ilee Venom
IX: Na'Ilee Venom (2)
X: Azuris Anthrax
XI: Samaj Spartans
XII: Dawchire Eagles
XIII: Helfin Mighty Men
XIV: _____ _____ ???

Dawchire Eagles               3  3 10  0  16
Na'Ilee Venom                10  0  6 10  26<

Jädde Brutes                 10  3  7 10  30<
Samotath Scourge              0  0 10  6  16

Hagenheim Vagabonds           7 10  3  3  23
Emerald Cove Conquistadors    3 10 14  7  34<

Centus Owls                  10  3  0  6  19<
Hvalsey Lions                 3  7  0  3  13

Morponte Marauders            7  0  3  0  10
Samaj Spartans                7  0 10 10  27<

Olask Dolphins                0  7  7  0  14
Sarmon Spirit                 0 14  6  3  23<

OAS Kingsmen                  7  3  7  0  17<
Kaldukosic Blazers            0  3  7  0  10

Opjenheim Bulldogs            3  7  7  0  17
Klyde Cyclones                3  6  3  6  18<

Bayford Blue Dragons          0  0  0  3   3
Keenan Robins                 3  3  0  0   6<

Cassandra Wildcats            0  6 10  0  16
Ramusok Stars                14  0  7  3  24<

Mallox Iron Tigers            7  0  7  7  21<
Pelethas Thunder              0  6  7  0  13

Crawford Comrades             0 14  3  7  24<
Zakhoro Wolfpack              0  3  6  3  12

Kaldukosic Kataklysm          0  7  0  0   7
Helfin Mighty Men             0  0  0 10  10<

Flen Jaguars                  3  3 14  3  23<
Stoneshore Predators          0  3  0 10  13

Versiaville Vikings           3  0  3 10  16
Altamirano Devils            14  3  0  7  24<

Surpronuk Marsh Monsters     10  7  3  3  23<
Pirankoper Dwarves            0  6  3  7  16

Na'Ilee Venom                 7  3  0  7  17
Jädde Brutes                  3  7 10  7  27<

Emerald Cove Conquistadors    7 10 10  3  30<
Centus Owls                   7  7  7  7  28

Samaj Spartans                0  7  3  3  13<
Sarmon Spirit                 3  0  0  3   6

OAS Kingsmen                  3  7  7 10  27<
Klyde Cyclones                0  3  3  0   6

Keenan Robins                10  3  3  3  19
Ramusok Stars                 7  6  7  7  27<

Mallox Iron Tigers            3  0  0  3   6
Crawford Comrades             7  7  0  6  20<

Helfin Mighty Men            10  3  3 10  26<
Flen Jaguars                  3  0  3  7  13

Altamirano Devils             0  7  0  6  13
Surpronuk Marsh Monsters      3 10  0  7  20<

Jädde Brutes                 14 14  6 10  44<
Emerald Cove Conquistadors    0 14  3  3  20

Samaj Spartans                6  3  7  7  23
OAS Kingsmen                  7  0  7 10  24<

Ramusok Stars                 0  7  7  3  17<
Crawford Comrades             7  0  3  3  13

Helfin Mighty Men             0  6  0  3   9
Surpronuk Marsh Monsters      3 10 10  6  29<

Jädde Brutes                7 10  0  0  17<
OAS Kingsmen                3  6  3  0  12

Ramusok Stars               3  7 10  0  20<
Surpronuk Marsh Monsters    0  3  0  0   3

Jädde Brutes            7  9  3 10  29
Ramusok Stars           0  0  7 10  17

The Brutes racked up an impressive collection scalps en route to the final, including 12-4 division champions Samotath and Na'Ilee, Brandon Reigner's Emerald Cove, and finally a streaky, dangerous OAS team that had put all their marbles on the Finnegan Trophy after a disappointing CFL season. The Stars had a much easier route, not playing a single playoff team except for the Keenan Robins, who are barely one. Still, it was impressive to see their very young and inexperienced team string the wins together.

In the title game, however, the Brutes' more battle-tested team and overall superior talent and experience shined through. Olavi Kalgara has been criticized for his inaccuracy at times this season, but he started hot against the Stars on this day, slinging a pair of 30+ yard TD passes on-the-money to Cozmar Na'Bami in the first half. The Brutes' offense cooled down in the second half, but their defense was able to pick up the slack, led by linebackers Gary Tolbert and James Riffer in shutting down the Ramusok run game and making them one-dimensional. The Stars put together a furious comeback bid in the final minutes, but the deficit was too great.

The JÄDDE BRUTES have won the fourteenth Finnegan Trophy! It is Jädde's first trophy since they won the inaugural CFL Dragon Bowl. Their victory also marks only the second Finnegan Trophy to go to the Silver Conference in the last eight editions, closing the gap back to 8-6 in the all-time series between the two bitter conferences in the history of this tournament.

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Now, stay tuned for the real main event! The CFL Playoffs and DRAGON BOWL in the next post!

[Cosumar]

CFL Season XVII (1014) - Playoffs

It's that time again. Of the 36 teams that began the season with bright aspiration, fewer than half remain with their goal of winning the Dragon Bowl intact. Making the postseason is a great accomplishment, but only one team will end the season completely satisfied. CFL Playoffs... Single-elimination. No mercy. No second-chances.

First Round

SILVER CONFERENCE
1Dawchire Eagles               3  3  6  6  18
4Mallox Iron Tigers            3  3  7  0  13

2Kaldukosic Kataklysm         10  0 10  0  20
3Opjenheim Bulldogs            3  0  0  3    6

1Bayford Blue Dragons          3  3  0  7  13
4Morponte Marauders           13  7  0  3  23

2Olask Dolphins               10  7  3  6  26
3Hagenheim Vagabonds           0  7 14  9  30

Silver Conference top seeds Dawchire look like they might be in trouble, tied 6-6 at the half against the Iron Tigers, but their vaunted defense continued to hold firm and did just enough to allow their stuttering offense to get them across the line without scoring a single touchdown (six field goals). Griffin Lintonsmith will have to do better than 0/8 in the Red Zone if the Eagles want to advance any further, however. The Kataklysm await next after taking control of the ball and the clock for all four quarters against Opjenheim.

On the west side of the Silver Conference, the Morponte Marauders spring the trap on home team Bayford that everyone saw coming. The Marauders might've had a sluggish regular season, but the Mortim-based juggernauts have the playoff experience and pedigree to flip a switch at this time of year and go on a serious run. Jeston Boulware slung three touchdowns in the first half, looking once again like the guy who has played in two Dragon Bowls. And then, in the last game, Melissa Ombudsman's fairy tale rookie season on Olask Isle came to an end at the hands of the scrappy Vagabonds, outdueled by Kenji Toyashimo in a storming second-half comeback.

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BLUE CONFERENCE

1Samotath Scourge              0  0  0  7   7
4Ramusok Stars                10  3  3  6  22

2Emerald Cove Conquistadors    3  3  0  0   6
3Hvalsey Lions                 0  6  3  3  12

1Na'Ilee Venom                10  6  7 10  33
4Keenan Robins                 0  3  0 10  13

2Jotungard Goblins             7  7  7  7  28
3Samaj Spartans                0  3  7  7  17

The biggest upset of the first round, the unfancied Stars upend the Scourge - one of the heaviest Dragon Bowl favorites. 34-year-old Stars legend Duke Leonard turned back the clock to catch two touchdowns, elusive back Shay Usher danced her way to 128 yards on the ground, and Joe Poimen sealed the deal with two strip sacks and recoveries against MVP Francis Hibbert in the fourth quarter as he threatened to rally Samotath. They'll face Hvalsey next after a symbolic passing of the torch from Brandon Reigner to Peri Fothergill. But really it was the Lions' defense that won the day, defensive end Arthur Okamoto bailing out Fothergill's off-kilter performance by constantly pressuring Reigner and forcing the Dragon Bowl-winning veteran into three interceptions.

The other two games weren't as much to watch. The Venom absolutely dominated the outmatched Robins in the trenches on both sides of the ball (only a garbage time score and Venom resting starters aftering taking a 33-3 lead made the final a little more respectable). The defending champions, Samaj, hung in there a little better against a confident & ascending Goblins squad, but Thorin Cherufin and that Spartan defense just - uncharacteristically - could not scheme a way to slow them down through all four quarters.

Conference Semifinals

SILVER CONFERENCE

1Dawchire Eagles         3 10 10 13  36
2Kaldukosic Kataklysm    0  3  3  6  12

4Morponte Marauders      7  0  3 14  24
3Hagenheim Vagabonds     3 10 10  0  23

How about that Marauders-Vagabons! Though Jeston Boulware is respected as one of the CFL's best quarterbacks of the modern era, his legacy will always have an asterix: lost both of his Dragon Bowl appearances. This postseason, he looks hellbent on changing that. His Marauders were down 23-10 with eight minutes left in the fourth quarter, in Hagenheim, but he marched his team down the field for two EPIC 80+ yard drives to walk off as 24-23 winners. In crunch time, he was 14/15 for 226 yards and 2 TDs. It will go down as one of the 35-year-old's signature moments. One more win stands between Boulware and his third Dragon Bowl with the Marauders. They will play the formidable Dawchire Eagles after their own offense ignited to life in a dominating home performance against the Kataklysm. Nic Perrantes had 80+ yards both rushing and receiving and they looked - once again - like the team that compiled the best point-differential in the regular season. The Silver Conference Championship will be a good one.

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BLUE CONFERENCE

4Ramusok Stars           6  0  7  7  20
3Hvalsey Lions           7  7  3  7  24

1Na'Ilee Venom           0  0  3  7  10
2Jotungard Goblins       0  6  3 10  19

The Stars go out at what was probably their ceiling for the season - though, who knows - maybe they would've scored the go-ahead TD against Hvalsey if Usher hadn't fumbled 30 yards from the endzone with three minutes left. The Lions go through to a first Blue Conference title game for Peri Fothergill, and she celebrates by leaping onto the strong shoulders of her star running back Morum Øygard and riding him like a horse - whip and all - around the field after taking her final kneel. From being raised on an in-orbit space station to one of the biggest platforms in Cosumarite sport - what a story. Her precision-oriented gunslinging game will go head-to-head with a likeminded young team in the Jotungard Goblins for the right to play in the Big One. The Goblins saw off the Blue Conference favorites Na'Ilee with a big fourth quarter performance by their defense. Linebacker Nakas Berryman-Daguenais tipped a Nimmo-Dirksen pass into the air with a big paw, caught it and returned it 50 yards to take a 16-10 lead they would not surrender.

Conference Championship Games

SILVER CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

Dawchire Eagles         7  0 10  0  17
Morponte Marauders     14  3  7  7  31

Was it a long con? The Marauders are an older team, so maybe their wishy-washy regular season was merely them saving energy for the playoffs. And daring the rest of the league to forget how lethal Boulware, Valdivia, Wooton & Co. can ~apparently~ still be. Dawchire were one of the consensus best teams this year, but they were no match for this vintage Marauders performance. They're headed back to the Dragon Bowl as Silver Conference champions for the fifth time.

BLUE CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

Hvalsey Lions           3  0  0  7   6   16
Jotungard Goblins       0  0  0  10  0   10

Ok... this game was kind of shit. Two young teams new to this stage and level of attention, and it showed. Both offenses were sloppy and unable to get anything going for most of the first four quarters: trading punts, turnovers and other mishaps. But both offenses finally settled down in the final ten minutes, piecing together long-awaited touchdown drives to restore some rhythm. It went to overtime 10-10, both teams feeling bullish on their chances after their positive end to regulation.

The Goblins got the ball first, and immediately struck a devastating blow. On the third play of the drive, Kotipelto found speedy receiver Hernán Marquez open downfield after losing his single-coverage corner with a stutter-step. Marquez was able to race all the way inside the Lions' 20 before finally being pushed out-of-bounds by safety Taj Artois. It got LOUD. The home crowd believed - and it definitely looked like - the Goblins were going to score a touchdown and end the game... before Peri Fothergill would even have a chance to touch the ball! But the Lions' defense ended up forcing a 31-yard field goal, which Jotungard's kicker astonishingly doinked off the left upright. Fothergill would get her chance after all! And her Lions would only need a field goal to win!

But it was Øygard who got to play overtime hero. He repeatedly gashed the Goblins d-line with runs up the gut, grabbing big chunks of yardage at a time. Worn down by Nick Sceviour and Hvalsey's big O-Line, they simply could not stop him, nor resist biting when Fothergill subsequently ran a perfect play-action fake and wheeled the other way for a 30-yard run to set up 1st & Goal. Two plays later, Øygard punched it in. Game over. 16-10. The plucky Lions advance to the Dragon Bowl to take on one of the CFL's historic powers.

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DRAGON BOWL XVII

The 17th edition of gridiron's biggest game will feature the Morponte Marauders in their fifth appearance and the Hvalsey Lions in their first. It will feature a team stocked with several many-time All-Cosumar stars (albeit most of them over 30 now) versus a team stocked with players just starting to reach that level in their careers. It will feature a traditional tall power-throwing QB in Jeston Boulware versus a new-school quick-footed precision thrower in Perikomen Fothergill. While these differences are stark and are being framed across the Fiefdom as a symbolic Past vs. Future showdown, this is also a battle between two teams who didn't quite set the league alight during the regular season but got hot when it mattered.

Who's hotter? Is it the big arm of Boulware as he looks for redemption from two previous Dragon Bowl failures, or is it the one-two punch of Fothergill and Øygard as they hope to welcome their own new dynasty?

...

...

...

Morponte Marauders      0  0 14  3  17
Hvalsey Lions           0  3  6 14  23

After a customary slow start as nerves worked themselves out, the Marauders raced out to a 14-6 lead to start the second half. After Boulware found longtime backfield partner Jacques Valdivia in the flat for a seven-yard score at the pylon, their second TD in five minutes, it looked like veterans Marauders were stamping their authority on the game and about to coast to a third Dragon Bowl title. However, that's when the Lions' defense stepped up and made a difference. Against the run of momentum, they forced three turnovers in the fourth quarter to haul their young team - kicking and screaming - back into the contest.

With six minutes left, Taj Artois plucked a Boulware pass out of the air, inches from the ground, after it sailed through the hands of a tight end. He would return it all the way to narrow the score to 17-16. It was a game-changing kind of play. Without that interception, the Marauders may have gone down and taken a two-touchdown lead. When the ensuing Marauders drive resulted in a Valdivia fumble at midfield with 3:27 left, Arthur Okamoto pounced on it. Peri Fothergill had looked rattled for most of the night, but she wouldn't squander this golden opportunity handed to her.

With a few dropback bullet throws on slants, a couple scrambles and one big helping of Morum Øygard, she led her team down the field for their only touchdown drive of the game to take a 23-17 lead. The final Marauders turnover would come with 0:45 remaining as Boulware tried to force it forty yards downfield to a receiver who tripped, sealing their defeat. The HVALSEY LIONS are the Dragon Bowl XVII Champions! They are now 1-0 in Dragon Bowls, while the Marauders fall to 2-3. It is the first CFL silverware for the Lions. The Dragon Bowl MVP Vote was a mere formality, with young female phenom quarterback Peri Fothergill the only possible winner because of what she means to this team. Even in an erratic night, she delivered when it mattered. The Lions' victory is the Blue Conference's second straight victory, giving it a 9-8 lead over Silver Conference in the all-time series.




Post-Season Awards

Season MVP: Francis Hibbert (QB, Samotath Scourge)
Dragon Bowl MVP: Perikomen Fothergill (QB, Hvalsey Lions)
Offensive Player of the Year: Ra'ef Nimmo-Dirksen (QB, Na'Ilee Venom)
Defensive Player of the Year: Iain O'Somni (CB, Opjenheim Bulldogs)
Foreign Player of the Year:  Nakas Berryman-Daguenais (LB, Jotungard Goblins)
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Melissa Ombudsman (QB, Olask Dolphins)
Defensive Rookie of the Year:  Jean-Vincent Kim (CB, Bayford Blue Dragons)

[Cosumar]

Welcome, valued reader, to the 27th Härlighet Ligan season since the Fiefdom Soccer Federation organized Cosumar's first true domestic pyramid. 256 clubs. Ten leagues. Five tiers. One annual cup competition for them all (King’s Cup).

The top three tiers, the Härlighet Ligan, Sekundar Ligan and Tredje Ligan, form an entity known as CosumarLigan. Two parallel conferences comprise a messy fourth tier below the CosumarLigan triad. Then, five large regional competitions fall under the umbrella of the fifth tier. More than previous generations could have dreamed of.

The modern era also brought new mechanisms to incentivize development and international transfers. We can now see the dividends in the UICA results and overall quality, which tends to be fairly spread-out. Nearly all HL 18 clubs lay claim to at least one difference-making star, meaning results can be fairly unpredictable, and Sekundar Ligan could arguably be a UICA Top 30 league on its own now too. CosumarLigan was also a landmark shift in that it integrated clubs from Cosumar's extraterrestrial colonies. Last season, an offworld club won the King’s Cup for the first time. Now that glass ceilings are being shattered, expect to see more space travel in Cosumar’s top tier in the future.

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Map of Current Clubs:

Overview of Past Winners:
I: OAS Royal FC
II: OAS Royal FC (2)
III: Mallox
IV: Mallox (2)
V: OAS Royal FC (3)
VI: Mallox (3)
VII: OAS Royal FC (4)
VIII: Ramusok United
IX: Klyde
X: Real Azuris
XI: Real Azuris (2)
XII: Cassandra City
XIII: Mallox (4)
XIV: Ramusok United (2)
XV: Cassandra City (2)
XVI: Real Azuris (3)
XVII: Real Azuris (4)
XVIII: Real Azuris (5)
XIX: Cassandra City (3)
XX: Real Azuris (6)
XXI: Cassandra City (4)
XXII: Real Azuris (7)
XXIII: Real Azuris (8)
XXIV: Mallox (5)
XXV: Eastweald
XXVI: Cassandra City (5)
XXVII: _______ ?

8 - Real Azuris
5 – Mallox
5 - Cassandra City
4 - OAS Royal FC
2 - Ramusok United
1 - Klyde
1 - Eastweald

CASSANDRA CITY
Cassandra, Cresscalus Fief

Nickname: Reds
Founded: 882
Ground: The Amphitheatre (60,000)
Manager: Arturo Mancini (61)

Transfers In: Scheherazade Meier (Sabrefell Moths $4m), Sonar Amethyst (Fillydelphia Union $4m), Arnold Mace (IFK Aldenskoett $1.75m), Lohani Riiyaaw (Tivali City undisclosed), Emily Seewöster (promoted)

Transfers Out: Janet Kobro (Ararat undisclosed), Jason Goulding (Treftadaeth Alliance free), Ki Niro (Manechester City free), Catheline Boag (retired), Frederic Colbert (retired), Ace Newman (retired)

First XI (4-3-3): Metz (35) - Va'Afaja (23), Gargo (34), Frostmarris (32), Vivas (24) - Serafino (30 C), Rowan (29), Konsé (25) - Dyer Vry (26), Zeale-Riddick (26), de Sájajo (22)

Key Reserves: Iziduko (GK/33), Seewöster (LRB/17), Jabelon (CB/20), Mace (CM/25), Kobro (LRM/25), Meier (LW/31), Sonar Amethyst (RW/21)
Tactical Style: High-press alternated with periods of calmer possession

Cassandra revolves around showbiz and celebrity. Cosumar's film, fashion and theatre industries are centered here (star-studded Staropoli Street), as is the only legal gambling district in the Fiefdom (Cassandra Megacasino a major landmark). There are also decadent attractions of even less reputable nature (the most brothels and strip clubs per capita in Cosumar). A pilgrimage to Cassandra is a rite of passage for entertainers and hedonistic young adults alike. Located on the barren northern steppe that stretches between the peninsular dragonlands to the east and the deep Duversian forests out west, Cassandra has little to speak of in terms of landscape. Yet it became an important city due to its location on the Pristine River, which connected the two sides of Cosumar in the early days, and remains by far Cosumar's largest inland city. Cassandra City are its largest club, embodying Cassandra's glamorous image. Their brightly-lit, amenity-stuffed stadium, The Amphitheatre, is only a block from Staropoli Street! Cassandra Cosmopolitan, however, are emerging as a legitimate competitor following successive promotions. Other local derbies include Riverside Crew, who claim support amongst the overlooked sailor and merchant neighborhoods along the river. Meanwhile, many big clubs around Cosumar also see the Reds as enemies. They've stepped on some toes. Most notably Ramusok United, stemming from their Millenium Miracle at the Blues' expense and subsequent battles. At home, Cassandra wear their customary all-red (right). Away, they wear a half-red, half-white shirt with black shorts and, distinctively, one red and one white sock (inverted from shirt).

Team Preview: Like the sequel to a record-breaking box office phenomenon, this Cassandra City team has the unenviable task of following up one of the most unexpectedly Dominant seasons in league history. Their pace slowed a little in the second half of the season (as did Vega Zeale Riddick’s unprecedented strike rate) , but it’s unclear if that was just a natural easing off the pedal, or due to other teams dissecting the tape on Arturo Mancini’s new tactical wrinkles. If it’s the latter, the Reds may find it difficult to start quite as fast this time. They’ll line up exactly the same way they did all last season. I mean, why wouldn’t they after all those points? But other top clubs - namely CCFC and Eastweald - have been busy stacking up new piece$ with Cassandra specifically in mind. It seems unfathomable, but local fans will remember that it was their club that made famous the Champions’ Curse of the 1000s with bottom-half title defense seasons. Yes, Cassandrians, I went there. But rest assured, I don’t see any chance of that particular poltergeist returning -- not with so much talent and experience on the books. This is a distinctly veteran team now. Calogero Metz is arguably the most distinguished goalkeeper in league history and is still pressing on with Farfadillis. Stephen Gargo and Diedrich Frostmarris is an old-school, no-nonsense first line of defense that makes up for lack of mobility with reliability and toughness. Last season also probably represented career peaks for longtime internationals Bellerophon Serafino and Ursula Rowan in midfield—Belle the motor of this team for so long and Rowan the ignition, the creative spark. All of these players are over 30 or close to it. Considering this, it’s probably wise that Mancini backed off from his relentless gegenpressing style slightly last season in favor of more easier-on-the-legs possession focus at times. The front line is comparatively younger, but still boasts five players with international experience, Scheherazade Meier and Sonar Amethyst upgrading on departing fan-favorite Niro and homegrown Kobro. The centerpiece of course is the self-anointed-on-social-media Queen of Cassandra herself (having graduated from her previous title of Princess of the Plains). Vega Zeale-Riddick. 6”4 of all legs yet graceful as a gazelle, VZR is a deadly weapon near goal. She can win headers all day, she can curl a ball with the best from inside the box, and her sense for where to be and when is uncanny. She benefited from fewer pressing responsibilities last season, able to focus more on simply putting the ball in the back of the net. Which she did a record 33 times. The bets are already pouring in at Cassandra Megacasino as to whether she’ll break her own record again or not. Regardless, how far the team goes this season depends more on whether the other attackers, like newly-minted Cosumar forward Charles Dyer Vry and dynamic but still somewhat inconsistent Farfadillis winger Lojes de Sájajo, can support with regular goals again. Also on whether promising youngsters like smooth-passing CB Wil Jabelon and Cosumar U18 fullback Emily Seewöster can take another step forward to replace some invaluable rotation depth lost to retirement. Expectations of a deep run in both CC and AOCL loom large over a squad that has never dealt particularly well with match congestion under Mancini.
Last Season: Champions (24-6-4). Prediction: Champions.

Luke Crisalus (ST, 965-982, 985)
Francois Renault (MF, 988-998)
Ace Newman (RW/ST; 995-1001, 1014)
Ron Bromwyn (MGR, 985-1004)
Kyle Fleming (MF, 997-1007)
Jacob Pandan (CB, 996-1002)
Jol Tortuu (ST, 1000-1011)
Jason Goulding (ST, 1008-1014)

Harlighet Ligan Champions 1000
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1003
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1007
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1009
King's Cup 1012
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1014

CRAWFORD CITY FC
Crawford, Numenvernien Fief

Nickname: Elephants

Founded: 924
Ground: Orangi Stadium (61,000)
Manager: Amethyst Fegelein (55)

Transfers In: Alexander Kárpáty & Tas Danko (Mallox $50m), Chimera Moxham (Port Patrick United $16m), Bloodblade (Real Maredrid $3m)
Transfers Out: Arden Lemons (Hondo FC $10m), Kevin Stabb (Aurablu Aritsu $3.5m), Kubra Babaturk (Jhanna City $3m), Dimitri Hagicostas (Brantisvogan FC free), Guilliver (Ryoto Redheads free)

First XI (4-4-2 Dmnd): Weschler (26) - Knych (25), Arrowsword (27), Bloodblade (25), Modrich (27) - Marshall (31 C), Farrow (25), Klein (26), Moxham (21) - Alcouin (32), Kárpáty (26)
Key Reserves: Danko (CB/26), Ward (CB/28), Arbuckle (RB/20), Valfar (DM/37), Martell (LW/29), Mosquera (CM/26), Coultan (AM/34), Belladonna (AM/22)
Tactical Style: Maintain Possession, Control Midfield

Crawford is a port city, the largest on Cosumar's AO-facing southern and western coasts. It has grown in importance in this era of regional integration, with most Atlantian sea traffic coming to Cosumar through Crawford. The sunny southwestern city boasts a diverse population of over six million (including highest proportion of Vloo on the mainland) with a particular disdain for the concept of "indoors". It's easy to see why in their balmy semi-tropical climate and the inviting Lake Crawford to enjoy year-round. Even much of the colorful downtown nightlife is outdoors, with rooftop blues clubs and open dance pavilions draped in neon lights ubiquitous. CCFC's lakefront pitch also has an open, sunny ambiance that matches its city. Yet Crawford isn't one of Cosumar's traditional footballing cities. With the possible exception of Crawford Sharks SC eons ago, none of its clubs have ever been very successful, and it has a reputation for Fair Weather Fandom across all pro sports. In leaner recent years CCFC have indeed struggled to fill that behemoth stadium that Orangi Bottling Co. built when they bought the club in 995. However, all the investment is finally starting to show on the pitch now. With trendy marketing and little competition in a young booming city, CCFC has entrenched itself as the true "big club" that western Cosumar has long lacked. CCFC's nickname is homage to the rare Numenvernien spotted elephant, indigenous to the area. Their elegant teal/crimson/gold home kit (right) is the envy of the league. Their white away kit with gold and teal accents isn't shabby either.

Team Preview: With this offseason, CCFC aimed to prove that their current status as one of Cosumar’s powerhouse clubs will outlive the era of the trailblazing stars that got them here: Kim Coultan and Hannah Alcouin. The all-time Schottic and Sunrisian greats remain, but a mighty flex of the Orangi Bottling Co. financial muscle has delivered two new world-class attackers to the shores of Lake Crawford to carry the Teal & Gold into the next era. Alexander Kárpáty is a known (and universally feared) commodity in the HL, winner of a title and two golden boots in Mallox. The shockwaves were felt ‘round the Fiefdom when news broke that the Tigers - usually a buying club themselves - had given in to CCFC’s relentless pursuit of their prized striker. The initial indication is that Amethyst Fegelein will attempt to play the Pasargan together with versatile Alcouin in support this season, but being most prolific as a lone forward, it’s clear that he is intended as her outright replacement eventually, perhaps sooner rather than later. The other splashy arrival, Chimera Moxham, should slot in right away in the free-roaming #10 role behind the two strikers that Coultan has occupied for so long. Big shoes to fill, certainly - no player has ever been so beloved around these parts as Coultan - but it will help the young Nepharim that Coultan has embraced her new mentor role with zeal. The self-deprecating 34-year-old has started cracking frequent jokes about feeling old and slow next to Moxham and should shine with managed minutes in more of a super-sub role. The midfield behind this new attacking trident remains stout. Rusalka Klein and Jennifer Farrow are both supremely quick #8s capable of dancing around challenges to maintain possession for days, or split the defense with a single pass. They aren’t afraid of a good tackle either. Not a very imposing midfield in the air, they prefer to keep the ball on the ground and moving forward. Their pivot in front of cool-as-a-cucumber defensive midfielder Peter Marshall is tried-and-true, a familiar sight for HL fans. In Bloodblade and Sarah Arrowsword, CCFC literally have a minotaur and a giant in central defense, which should give opposing teams pause if they do manage to disrupt Crawford’s midfield possession and get into the final third. Tas Danko tagged along with countryman/pal Kárpáty in the Mallox deal for some quality defensive depth in case the whole minotaur experiment doesn’t work out. Vanquishers #2 Hansi Weschler is capable of winning the team points with his sprawling saves on a given day too. These Elephants are no slouches. They seem like the perfect blend of youth, veteran experience, starpower and depth for Fegelein to sustain a dreamlike title season… IF the big signings can, in fact, supply that starpower right away.
Last Season: 2nd (19-6-9). Prediction: 2nd.

Jakk Winterfyll (GK, 997-999)
Dmytro Kurosawa (CF, 1002-1009)
Phillip Sherman (DM, 997-1010)
Jens Reiniger (RB, 1000-1012)

None in modern CosumarLigan era

FC SAMOTATH
Samotath, Parougan Fief

Nickname: Black Hawks
Founded: 845
Ground: Alesund Stadion (60,000)
Manager: Šimon Holguín (53)

Transfers In: Ojo Navarro (West Cape Wanderers $3m)
Transfers Out: Miroslav Vorobyov (retired)

First XI (1-3-2-4): Ardley (34) - Skipwith (20) - Fietsam (31), Sibuc (29 C), Hernández (29) - Kolitsidakis (33), Kirby (28) - Exarchopolous (26), Silvestri (26), Nyström (23), Navarro (25)

Key Reserves: Mukhanova (GK/22), Panossian (SW/26), Carolla (DF/24), Traustason (CM/24), Sommerfield (RW/31), Guss (FW/29), Bermond (ST/27), Silanii (ST/22)
Tactical Style: Advanced Backline, Attack at All Costs!

Isolated from the rest of the Cosumarite eastern seaboard by the first majestic cliffs and alien karst formations of the wild northern peninsula, Samotath developed a different culture for the sport. Namely, people here view football firstly as performance art. Putting on a show (AKA scoring goals) is the first measure of success for the old-school fans. The matchday atmosphere evolved around this emphasis on entertainment, with pyrotechnics, a costumed mascot and even a live hawk that flies around and does tricks. It's all bigger and better than ever before in the state-of-the-art Alesund Stadion. Samotath is a large city and FC Samo is the only game in town, so the stadium is usually packed. The city is a curiosity beyond sport as well, with a unique architectural style dominated by sharp edges and black glass. It's also the only population center where you can occasionally see elusive Cosumarite Azure Dragons in the distant sky. As for fashion, FC Samotath is all about the Red & Black Attack. Split-color kit with that awesome hawk at home (pictured) and a black away shirt with some neat arrow designs.

Team Preview: They were the big surprise packages last year, but the Black Hawks of Samotath aren’t necessarily strangers to the odd UICA season. The trouble has always been making those occasional forays upward stick. Their infamous aggressive philosophy, which takes attack-minded football to an extreme that is perhaps unmatched Multiverse-wide, is prone to wide fluctuations in effectiveness and performance from year to year. So what’s the magic sauce in campaigns like last season’s? Well, some would say luck. Despite finishing 3rd, Samotath had the lowest goal-differential in the top half... a mere +2. Given that, one might expect a step back this year. However, there’s another statistic you can’t ignore: the much-improved Goals Against stat. The FC Samotath defense, which featured several new - and far from acclaimed - players, was statistically better even than Real Azuris and Eastweald’s. Nepharim veteran Simon Ardley (who?) stepped into the shoes of vaunted countrywoman Diandra Ballard and surprised pundits by leading the HL in saves! Domestic journeymen Alan Hernández and Loreline Fietsam gelled beyond all expectation either side linchpin center back Capsin Sibuc, and homegrown prospect Aylan Skipwith rose up and dethroned longtime staple Ayk Panossian in the sweeper-defender role a couple months in. These (no)names form a defense that looks awfully raggedy on paper, but Šimon Holguín has been able to mold them into a cohesive unit. One that bent often over the course of last season… but held firm together *just* enough for their attackers to carry the day. Lots of multi-goal matches won by one goal. A precarious formula for success, but one that could ~maybe~ be reproducible if the attack improves enough to account for a defensive regression-to-the-mean. In 1014, opposing defenses were able to consistently key in on standout left winger Dimitra Exarchopoulos with Holguin struggling to get similar production from the other side, but the latest transfer window was headlined by Blaneu right winger Ojo Navarro. If he’s a success, it could unchain Dimitra to get back to her 1013 level of production. That would be best for everybody, especially strikers in the middle Zak Nyström and Santo Silvestri, who thrive on her service. Silvestri is a genuine star who’s crafty enough to fashion his own goals (18 of them last season), but Nyström - more of a traditional #9 - struggled with the wing play stifled. Mako Silanii made a number of positive impacts last season and will be chomping at the bit for more action up top this season too. As ever, the Samotath story seems to be that of a swinging scale between the goalscoring philosophy irreversibly ingrained in their local culture and trying to keep some semblance of a functional defense pieced together. You’d like to think that this time the Night City finally found a sustainable balance, but history has not shown that to be the case. I think the scales may swing back harshly in the other direction this season.
Last Season: 3rd (15-10-9). Prediction: 10th.

Vareza Na'Noni (RB/DM, 991-997)
Addam Andsman-Savage (ST, 986-999)
Elias Hermesniemi (CB, 999-1006)
Blue Skies (LM, 999-1006)
Jean-Pierre Mons (ST, 1000-1006)
Nazeau Roga (ST, 1004-1007)
Jubal Va'Mono (LB, 1001-1008)
Sid Dawson (MGR, 1000-1008)
Phoebe Etton (GK, 1002-1011)
Miroslav Vorobyov (RW, 1007-1014)

King's Cup 1001
King's Cup 1010

REAL AZURIS
Azuris, South Klyde Fief

Nickname: Breakers
Founded: 962
Ground: Estadio MasseMord (42,243)
Manager: Luis Varezzi (67)

Transfers In: Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir (Samaj FC $7m), Semyon Yucob (Helfin Fief $6m), Sgt. Sam Billic (Myrmidon $4m), Blanka Antunović (free), Cora Domino (promoted), Apolonia Olonniquin (promoted)
Transfers Out: Bryger Tidesson (Brinemouth $65m), Teor Rwang (AC Holmenkollen free), Lyyli Silvén (Crystal Heart City free), Ronan Bowditch (retired), Adrian Lindberg (retired), Sandra Sybill (retired)

First XI (4-1-2-3): E. Tidesson (22) - Biondi (32), Wolff (27), A. Tidesson (23), Chisenhall (32 C) - Clorfeine (25) - Akarenaa (30), Antúnes (25) - Benedict (31), Arrowsword (27), Sigurjónsdóttir (29)

Key Reserves: Antunović (LB/20), Vanzanto (CB/24), Haidt (CB/19), Mormentor (DM/32), Bi. Tidesson (AM/21), Yucob (LRW/30), Billic (ST/33)
Tactical Style: Expansive, Flowing Attack

Real Azuris are popular across the southern half of Klyde Isle, the landmass east of mainland Cosumar. South Klyde Fief - and Azuris as its primary hub - is known for its liquor, spicy cuisine, laid-back days, hard-partying nights and close association with piracy during the seafaring age. More recently, Azuris has become the epicenter of the exploding Full-Immersion Virtual Gaming industry in Cosumar. Virtual tech firm MasseMord is the stadium sponsor. Azuris also has a distinctly latin flair, with lots of Spanish-stye architecture and a high population of Spanish-speakers (including a large West Sunrisian diaspora). South Klyde is very different from North Klyde Fief, which is why Real Azuris have such a fierce rivalry with Klyde FC. Those northerners claim the name of the whole isle! The audacity. Real also have local Azurian derbies with smaller clubs AFC Obscura and Silk FC. They're the youngest of the bunch, celebrating a 50th anniversary last season. Real was founded at the behest of the Baron of South Klyde Fief (hence Real) to give citizens a "legitimate" club to support that didn't have ties to piracy or organized crime in its history like AFC Obscura. Few could've foreseen the juggernaut that Azuris would eventually become in the Härlighet Ligan era. Thanks to the work of Akira Eld, Lujendra Mescalin and many more behind the scenes, they've raised the bar in Cosumar in terms of infastructure, club culture and international achievement. Their primary kit features the iconic tidal wave that has long swept over the top of the shirt. White for home, blue for away. Azuris also have a bold alternate kit: rainbow. A high-tech fabric gives off the appearance of misty rainbow light, as you'd see shimmering by a waterfall.

Team Preview: Busy Busy Busy! Bye-bye Bryger, but bienvenue Billic, Sigurjónsdóttir & Yucob! The fact that it took three marquee attacking signings to even begin to placate the fans about Tidesson’s transfer to Brinemouth speaks to just how integral he has been to their recent successes. Tidesson’s Best XI brilliance year-over-year might have even helped cover up that a rot of complacent hubris had crept into Real’s foundation since their last league title - four years ago! Has it really been that long? It feels like yesterday that every trophy in Cosumar seemed to be heading down to South Klyde. Ok, Tidesson has delivered Azuris a couple King’s Cups and a Cygnus Cup in that time, but still. There is a title drought. With Bryger gone now as well as old icons like Sandra Sybill and Ronan Bowditch (both given heartwarming testimonials at the end of last season), there can be no more illusions. That “dynasty era” has passed. Real Azuris pushed the HL to a new level in several areas, but the rest of Cosumar has caught up. It falls to already-under-pressure manager Luis Varezzi to light a fire under this club again - to bring back the hunger that characterized their rise from Tredje Ligan to Champions’ Cup glory. Varezzi may be long in the tooth, but he has an ideal track record for such a task - his Samaj teams were never short on motivation or scrappy mentality. He has a lot more to work with here too. Bryger was the driving force, but it’s not like he carried the Breakers on his back alone. Andrew Arrowsword is still one of the deadliest finishers in the league, and there’s a formidable homegrown spine that includes three of Bryger’s younger siblings (all developing handsomely), disruptive d-mid Chandler Clorfeine and playmaking midfielder Hidalgo Antúnes - a man growing in stature with the national team. Plus, versatile attacker Apolonia Olonniquin - very highly rated - could be the next teenager to move up from their conveyor belt El Faro academy and make a significant impact. However, Olonniquin might find playing time difficult to come by this season. Azuris have gone with a numbers approach to replacing Bryger Tidesson’s goals and assists, letting checks fly for proven top performers from within the HL (wingers Sigurjónsdóttir, Yucob) and the World Cup (godfather of Mercedinian strikers Billic). None of them are likely to match Bryger’s clockwork 15 goal/assist seasons individually, but maybe they can by committee. Real Azuris look deeper this season and all-around really solid. This is a squad with few holes to poke in it, especially if goalkeeper Edith Tidesson continues to swell in confidence and command as she did over the course of last season. Kurt Wolff and Alfred Tidesson should be an elite HL central defense, assuming they can learn to play together and communicate a little better. Real Azuris is a UICA squad for sure, but they have enough premiere quality to push for the title without you-know-who?
Last Season: 4th (14-11-9). Prediction: 4th.

Akira Eld (MGR, 982-1000)
Giovanni Aldinne (LM, 992-999)
Tolgus Tregajorran (CF, 1004)
Ipier Ubuntu (CF, 997-1006)
Robert Sieuwerd (GK, 997-1008)
Georgia Kite (CF, 1005-1008)
Florentin Lachance (CM, 1005-1009)
Lujendra Mescalin (MGR, 1003-1010)
Sean Fraser (LW/ST, 1002-1011)
August Ozuna (GK, 1005-1013)
Ronan Bowditch (RW, -1014)
Sandra Sybill (CM, -1014)

Sekundar Ligan Champions 983
Harlighet Ligan Champions 998
Harlighet Ligan Champions 999
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1004
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1005
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1006
King's Cup 1006
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1008
King's Cup 1008
King's Cup 1009
UICA Champions' Cup 66 (1009)
UICA Super Cup 63 (1009)
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1010
Cygnus Cup 42 (1010)
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1011
King's Cup 1011
King’s Cup 1013
Cygnus Cup 46 (1014)

MALLOX
Mallox, Gellano Fief

Nickname: Tigers
Founded: 804
Ground: Orange Palace (46,000)
Manager: Kennedy Kopenhaver (67)

Transfers In: Griffin Riordan (Klyde $8m), Jouri Salverda (Helfin Fief $3.5m), Rachel Del Arro (Samaj FC $3.3m), Ethan Benjamin (Cirelbourne $2.75m), Corsair Gust (Lunar Island Stargazers $2.5m), Vir Vu’Zago (Dusk Athletic $1.3m), Jae Sun Cheong (promoted)
Transfers Out: Alexander Kárpáty & Tas Danko (Mallox $50m), Johannes Sindelaar (retired), Bella Thompson (retired), Luco Haines (retired), Nils Vanderpool (retired), Till Ümann (retired)

First XI (4-4-1-1): Va’Nega (25) - Engram (26), Bruyne (30 C), Salverda (24), Broxham (21) - Emery (29), Sjunitsson (26), Dé (27), Siorrha'Asione (27) - Masatoshi (20) - Riordan (26)

Key Reserves: Benjamin (CB/22), Chappelle (CB/DM/23), Corsair Gust (CM/26), Cloudchaser (AM/36), Del Arro (LW/31), Hjelmsgaard (ST/20), Vu’Zago (ST/18)
Tactical Style: Fast and Direct on the Counter

Gellano Fief occupies most of The Weald, a low-lying tract of land with a wartorn history, nestled between the wild Northern Peninsula, the Dronningens mountain range to the south and the Great Central Desert to the west. The fief is practically divided down the middle: the gorgeous, thickly-wooded eastern half... and the dry, flat western half. Mallox is the major city in this less glamorous western half, a center of heavy industry and manufacturing, surrounded by wind farms and small, hardscrabble communities that depend on them for livelihood. The Orange Palace is at the heart of it all and is perpetually waitlisted, commanding universal support from Mallox proper as well as the outlying towns of West Weald. Mallox FC is seen as an embodiment of their blue-collar values. Even well-off Malloxites still identify with this hardworking ethos and fancy themselves the antithesis of their "arrogant silver-spoon brethren" in prosperous, intellectual Eastern Gellano cities like Centus and Yambridge. This cultural divide spills over onto the pitch when Mallox face archrivals Eastweald in the "Weald Classic". Mallox were one of Cosumar's most feared clubs in the early history of the Härlighet Ligan, trading titles with OAS Royal in the 980s and 990s. It was over 15 years into the HL era before they missed a UICA berth. The Tigers wear a diamond-textured orange home kit (right). Away, they wear black with subtle watermarks of Mallox's industrial skyline.

Team Preview: Supporters have slammed the Kárpáty sale, citing it as proof that Mallox has sold out its top-end ambition, but it might actually end up being a good piece of business in the long run. The reality is that blue-collar, majority fan-owned Mallox can’t quite free-spend with the likes of Crawford City FC, OAS Royal and Eastweald. Sales like these (the $50 million kind) allow the club to bridge the wealth gap. Griffin Riordan isn’t a large step down from Kárpáty - she helped win Brenecia a World Cup after all - and the switch netted Mallox $42 million in profit to spread around in strengthening the rest of the squad… and reinvest into finding the next Kárpáty. Those reinforcements are headlined by former Schottia, Port Christopher and Samaj FC star Rachel Del Arro, who can play on either side and will get plenty of starts rotating in for electric wingers Jordan Emery and Stiin Siorrha’Asione - both terrifyingly pacy on Mallox’s fast breaks. As for the “next Kárpáty”, that might just be Vir Vu’Zago, a striker who lit up the fourth tier and Cosumar U18 camp at 16 years old. The orange-clad masses in terrestrial Cosumar’s industrial heartland are already clamoring to see their first peak of the fresh-faced Vloo youngster. But their immediate hopes - for a top four finish this season - fall largely on the shoulders of 20-year-old Taka Masatoshi. The quick, technical #10 will be charged with orchestrating Mallox’s aforementioned counters and finding Riordan’s runs. Masatoshi is good on the ball and has heapings of talent (even Galactico Junior recognition to his name), but for the Tigers to really challenge at the top, they need Masatoshi to take the next big step in his development into a star. They’ve purposefully groomed him for this, having him share the role with Anders Engstrom and then Cloudchaser as a teen. Will Taka step up to the mantle and deliver every match what we’ve seen tantalizing glimpses of for the last few years? With a very robust and athletic defense and midfield engine behind him (Karlus Sjunitsson in particular has blossomed since arriving from Aldenskoett), he has all the support he needs.
Last Season: 5th (15-7-12). Prediction: 5th.

Pablo Reyes (GK, 965-978)
Kennedy Kopenhaver (CB, 970-985; MGR, 1010-)
Leland Burke (MF, 972-980)
Thomas Hair (CB, 976-980)
Baltomer Izecson (ST, 987-997)
Anders Engström (ST/LW, 993-1001, 1011)
Haruto Takahashi (LM, 999-1006)
Stuart Gildon (RM, 994-1008)
Jimmy Kelly (ST, 997-1009)

Harlighet Ligan Champions 985
Harlighet Ligan Champions 988
Harlighet Ligan Champions 992
King's Cup 1000
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1001
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1012

EASTWEALD
Yambridge, Gellano Fief

Nickname: Wood Elves, or just Elves
Founded: 704
Ground: Old Weldenskirgen (43,209)
Manager: Theresa Riether (62)

Transfers In: Brian Bond (Oakstone $32m), Hesterine Mercator (Tihon $12m), Tali’raia (Whitehaven Triumph $7m), Samuel Hopkins (Chromatik $6m), Jennifer Townsend-Gregg (Seryddwyr Aberaeron $1.5m)
Transfers Out: Penumbra Amokachi (Coret Hawks $4m), Esteban Hernandez (retired), Aleksi Soderlund (retired), Michael Sorenson (retired)

First XI (4-3-3): Mercator (24) - Myren (30), Hopkins (25), Scott (29), V. Ilya (25) - Mordini (32 C), der Pros (30), Haalogalsson (25) - Bond (24), Kovačević (21), Fanaiyan (25)

Key Reserves: Matalon (GK/25), Thatch (LB/30), Bambic (CB/30), Townsend-Gregg (CM/21), De Marisco (AM/38), Rao (LW/18), Del Angel (SS/27), Tali’raia (ST/Dryad)
Tactical Style: Tiki-Taka

Gellano Fief occupies most of The Weald, a low-lying tract of land with a tumultuous history nestled between the wild Northern Peninsula, the Dronningens mountain range to the south and the Great Central Desert to the west. The fief is practically divided down the middle: the dry industrial western half… and the gorgeously wooded eastern half. Obviously, Eastweald represent this eastern half of The Weald. Specifically, their name refers to Eastweald Wood, a thick deciduous forest that was thought to have magical properties (like spirits and sprites) by ancient Cosumarites. Hence the team's nickname "Wood Elves". Nobody actually lives in Eastweald Wood (development strictly prohibited), but the nearby city of Yambridge sits on the northern edge. The club's historic stadium is in the desirable southern outskirts, a stone's throw from the beginning of Eastweald Wood. Its green expanse can be seen from higher seats. It's a very quaint, picturesque area, Yambridge long a magnet for artists and intellectuals. That all makes the West Wealders over in Mallox hate Eastweald even more and fuels the fiery Weald Classic. Eastweald have also historically battled for turf locally with Yambridge City, who claim to represent the city's actual urban heart, but they've fallen down the pyramid recently. From the oldest active stadium to stirring club song "Ode to the Elves", Eastweald have a storied tradition in Cosumarite soccer dating back centuries. The club won buckets of trophies in days of antiquity and retain much of that prestige today... especially after finally winning that first HL title two seasons ago. They wear green dominant at home and yellow (right) on the road, always with matching color shorts and inverse color socks. They occasionally wear a monochromatic dark-gold throwback kit.

Team Preview: Eastweald started slow and never quite found their rhythm in 1014, slumping to 6th place in a season mired by injuries and age catching up to a few players. So, Eastweald subsequently did what any club with such a proud, aristocratic heritage would do… sit up straight and throw cash at the problem. If that sentence came out as condescending, it shouldn’t have. Throwing cash at the problem often works in soccer. If you have the luxury, go for it. There’s no doubt that the likes of Brian Bond and Hesterine Mercator will make sublime HL players, it’s just a matter of whether they’ll make sublime Eastweald players. Was due diligence done to make sure these signings will fit what Theresa Riether wants to do, or did Eastweald simply panic and grab blindly at the biggest names on the market? Time will tell, but it’s hard not to drool a little at the thought of the dynamic left-footer Bond lining up to torch defenders opposite emerging PoTY candidate Ishtar Fanaiyan, with 21-year-old rising star Jagoda Kovačević providing a skilled and physical presence in the box for them to play off of. The homegrown Pasargan has increasingly sparkled as the understudy to Penumbra Amokachi, and is ready to make Old Weldenskirgen her own now that the woman who delivered Eastweald its first HL title has flown home to see off her career as a Coret Hawk. But the $7m arrival of Mriin international Tali’raia will force her to continue to fight for her time in the spotlight. Regardless of whether you go with Jagoda or the dryad, the immense skill and athleticism of that front three could win the Elves the title on its own. Was Bond worth over $30 million? Probably not. But sometimes you have to overpay to get difference-makers. Between Somuele Der Pros and Mina Mordini, there’s still plenty of quality in the midfield as well - assuming the veteran internationals can stay healthy this time. Those two really dictate the flow of the game and are the basis for how Eastweald try to work the angles with lots of short, quick passes. Jennifer Townsend-Gregg is an intriguing talent, tall and really glides on the ball, who has been brought up from Sekundar Ligan to provide more depth for the injury-prone midfield and perhaps even push Sven Haalogalsson for his starting place. He was sometimes insufficient last season replacing Dexter Tricklebank as Eastweald’s engine room. In the back, Mercator can realistically set her sights on becoming one of the greatest goalkeepers in Cosumarite history - already being so accomplished and confident between the sticks at age 24. At the very least, her mobility and fearlessness will provide something the more traditional Esteban Hernandez - as good as he was - never offered them. $12 million could be a steal. But will she have a good enough back line in front of her? They were vulnerable against top teams last season. Riether will have to hope that benching out-of-form Eric Bambic for sturdy Euran center back Samuel Hopkins (for another sizable chunk of cash) is a one-stop fix. Despite all the money spent, the new arrivals did not include the new fullback that fans were begging for. 1015 Eastweald is a tough team to project. They have championship quality in players like Fanaiyan, Bond and probably Brevin Scott... but some of the issues that caused them to decline last season might not have been flukes.
Last Season: 6th (14-9-11). Prediction: 3rd.

Randy Lewis (ST, 915-926)
Endyl Paru (CB, 982-999)
Abdiel Assad (CB, 989-1001)
Mika Ostaltsov (LM, 999-1002)
Belarmin Worsaw (ST, 1002-1004)
Golden Rand (GK, 999-1005)
Henrique Ventura (MGR, 976-1006)
Esteban Hernandez (GK, 1007-1014)
Penumbra Amokachi (ST, 1009-1014)

King's Cup 999
King's Cup 1005
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1013

RAMUSOK UNITED
Ramusok, Ramusok Fief

Nickname: Blues
Founded: 751
Ground: Fire River Arena (80,000)
Manager: Jock Sonny (80)

Transfers In: Corby Wheeler (Goldstaff City $20m), Luminesce (Lexington Victory $15m), Winston Arrowsmith (FC Endeavour $15m), Dragora Steelhenge (Cornellians $8.5m), Gezan Djanetic (Interblag FC $1m), Ksenia Winterseer (Zakhoro Aces $0.5m), Leandro Dellavigna (Kolanole Elite Dev. Academy)
Transfers Out: Keohane (Hwoarang Seidoshi $3.5m), Eliana Yotirmoy (Paulinthal FC $2.5m), Lucien Marmor-Lavie (Duredain Barricade free), Garnet Langerak (retired), Tevin Lilley (retired)

First XI (4-4-2 Dmnd): Kearney (36 C) - Sutton (25), Hare (24), Steelhenge (25), Topić (21) - Bachelor (24), Luminesce (23), Sparrow Body (26), Wheeler (23) - Arrowsmith (28), Stone (32)

Key Reserves: Cevelunen (GK/21), Carr-Ponce (CB/29), Winterseer (DM/24), Djanetic (MF/26), Duvalier (RM/18), Del Toro (CAM/30), Wedderburn (ST/25), Jago (ST/34)
Tactical Style: Work rate and toughness prized in hard-hitting attack

Ever since OAS Royal FC opened shop 30 years ago and became the capital's purveyors of prestige and foreign appeal, the much older United have repositioned themselves as "the everyman's club" in Ramusok. The club for the "true Ramusoki" and those outside the glamorous royal district. The real representation of Ramusok's soccer culture. Yet, even though they claim the city's most recent championship, Ramusok United have once again reverted to a slight secondary status to Royal in recent years. The club is located in a young and "hip" part of town, near Ramusok Capital University and popular nightlife spots. Their stadium, Fire River Arena, is one of the most historic in Cosumar - the Fiefdom's first jewel of such size and former home to the National Team before being overshadowed by Kaldukosic’s Leviathan Arena and then OAS Royal's new Crowley Memorial. It got its curious name from a local legend. The Sampson River, which runs into the ocean just a mile away, was a key tactical location in the battles of ancient Cosumar. When Mikael The Magnificent completed his conquest of the area, he was said to have dumped such a quantity of explosives into the river that flames danced upon the waters for two whole weeks as a show of intimidation. United's sea of blue-clad supporters do their best to be equally intimidating. Their blue shirt (pictured right) is worn with solid white shorts and blue socks. On the road, United wear this silver shirt, with solid blue shorts and silver/blue hooped socks.

Team Preview: Last season’s VCI trophy and incremental league progress was enough to convince the board that the youngish core nurtured to fruition under Jock Sonny was ready to contend at a UICA level. The likes of Noma Sutton, John Hare, Igor Topić, Dustin Bachelor, Sparrow Body and Lara Wedderburn aren’t flashy players or big names, but they always play with heart customary of Sonny sides and have increasingly excelled in their respective roles. So, Ram U took a win-now approach into the transfer window, swinging for the fences with $60 million in outlay for Goldstaff City & Brenecia starlet Corby Wheeler, top ANL striker Winston Arrowsmith, Terranean League standout Luminesce and a top center back in Dragora Steelhenge. Steelhenge is a can’t-miss signing, but she was also the cheapest of that quartet. The other $51.5 million screams “boom or bust” - especially considering Wheeler isn’t automatically superior to incumbent veteran playmaker Adrian Del Toro. Nor is Arrowsmith to Wedderburn or William Stone, nor is Luminesce to outgoing fan-favorite Keohane in midfield. Ramusok United’s preseason has been littered with position battles that Sonny has remained coy on, and it now seems quite possible that the club will have shelled out a bunch of cash for player(s) who won’t even be making a starter’s impact - at least not right away. Has the team really upgraded, or just spent big to replace with like parts? Rumors of Jock Sonny, who recently celebrated his 80th birthday, resigning before the season have littered the Ramusok tabloids every-other day as well, adding another layer of intrigue and uncertainty. The rumors haven’t come to fruition (yet), but his interviews hint that this may be his last go before handing the reins to former interim manager Kirum Mortonsson for good. Will the Schottic legend be able to complete his project of returning Ramusok United to UICA status before retiring back to his homeland? His ideal formation and starting eleven may take awhile to settle into place this year amidst the logjam of options (did we even mention impressive homegrown winger Rosalie Duvalier and goalkeeper Rondok Cevelunen?), but ending last season by lifting the VCI trophy might have given his group the only certainty they need - the taste of victory and the confidence that they have what it takes to get it.
Last Season: 7th (13-11-10). Prediction: 7th.

Derris Na'Fen (ST, 946-949)
Chester Pearce (RB, 932-938) (MGR, 974-979)
Mike Flanningan (CB, 998-1010)
Kirum Mortonsson (CB, 992-1001)
Seon Jin Kang (LB, 1001-1011)
Curtis Théberge (ST, 1004-1012)
Robin Geirsson (CM, 998-1013)

Harlighet Ligan Champions 994
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1002
King's Cup 1002
3rd Vilitan Cove Invitational (1014)

Stay tuned for the next part(s) of this preview, coming soon.

[Cosumar]

OAS ROYAL FC
Ramusok, Ramusok Fief

Nickname: Whites or Royals
Founded: 982
Ground: Crowley Memorial World Cup Stadium (105,000)
Manager: Syl Denhardt (57)

Transfers In: Gitonga Kahara (Polaris $10m), Harlan Sheriff (Aspis Orbital School), Ben Sonnen (promoted)
Transfers Out: Zoë Aedelbrandt (Sabrefell Moths $7m), Claudia Cautcher (Bedha English $3m), Eithan Sigurdsson (retired)

First XI (4-4-2): Shalhoub (31) - Duvernay (27), Hanger (28), Fosse (31), Di Sansev (24) - Kahara (23), Drover (30 C), Marchant (25), Coffey (25) - Marsteller (25), Møller (20)

Key Reserves: Alañiz (GK/23), Ferne (LB/34), Omenihu (CB/18), Rocket (LW/36), Sheriff (DM/18), Valcon (CM/23), Simmons III (RW/31), Koclanes (ST/25)
Tactical Style: Exploit wide spaces with speed

Ramusok is Cosumar's capital and second-largest city. Its rich soccer culture has seen various clubs ebb and flow over the decades, but in the CosumarLigan era there have been a definitive "Big Two": Ramusok United… and OAS Royal. OAS is a fairly young club, founded by King James II to compete in the inaugural Härlighet Ligan season in 983. He spared no expense, recruiting World Cup stars and building a stadium adjacent to his Royal Palace. The team was immediately successful, winning the first two HL titles and becoming the first Cosumarite club gain international recognition. Though it has been awhile since Royal have won anything, they remain one of Cosumar's biggest brands. They have loyal fans across the Fiefdom and region, a prime location in the historic Område av Storslagenhet (Royal District) and now a shiny new stadium - a true monument to Cosumarite soccer. The matches are status events, with the King himself and handfuls of politicians and luminaries often in attendance. Around Ramusok, they are seen as the flashier, "cooler" club, with casual and bandwagon fans everywhere. O.A.S is almost like its own city-within-a-city, however. United better represent Ramusoki outside of its elite cocoon and tend to have more passionate hardcore supporters as a result. Royal wear sleek all-white (shirt right, with white shorts & socks) whenever possible. They also have a grey/white/turquoise secondary kit that pops up occasionally. This shirt, grey socks, and white shorts with a turquoise strip like the shoulder.

Team Preview: Another finish that just wasn’t good enough for a club with the history, prestige and royal coffers of Område av Storslagenhet behind it. They were in the battle for the Champions’ Cup places (ish) for most of the season, but won only two matches in the last two months. slipping out of the UICA places entirely. Syl Denhardt is on thin ice already in just his second season. Even when OAS Royal were winning matches earlier in the season, they didn’t look like a particularly great team. But he’s sticking to his guns, confident he can build something in the heart of the capital that resembles what he built in its northern suburbs at Holmenkollen. The plan, as it was there, is to build a culture around homegrown youth. Sur Arora laid the groundwork by uncovering academy gems Sen Marsteller and outbound Zoe Aedelbrandt, but now Astrid Omenihu, Aikin Valcon and especially Thor Møller look set for bigger roles under Denhardt. All have been at the club since they were young teens. Møller has the most potential, and seems to be a generational talent at striker who could follow in the steps of Vanorian club legend Galasgoldas Tathraure. With Cautcher gone and Marsteller transitioning to playing as a second striker or playmaker more often, Møller will have the chance to be the go-to guy of the OAS attack. A big year from him could really elevate the Whites - and himself. But that’s not to say Royal have withdrawn from their penchant for marquee transfer window spending. Denhardt signed off on a $10 million check - something he definitely never did at Holmenkollen - for Banijan superstar winger Gitonga Kahara. The hope is that he can replace Aedelbrandt as Roxana Coffey steps forward after her bedding-in season on the other wing. Hopefully, Møller and Marsteller will have more chances than the strikers in the middle were given last season. Elsie Drover and Catheline Marchant, along with Valcon and prodigious colonial youth international Harlan Sheriff, complete a versatile array of midfield options with both creativity and steel. The biggest predicator of success for Denhardt’s Royals this season, however, will be in the back. Each member of the back four - and the goalkeeper - is a seasoned, respected player, capable of putting in sterling shifts most days. However, for the last couple seasons, those days have not aligned for them. The only consistent thing is that someone always seems to relapse with a crippling mistake. To satisfy King James II with a return to UICA football, Denhardt needs two key things happen. 1) Youth to step up and shine. 2) More discipline from that expensive back line. Both of those things largely fall on him.
Last Season: 8th (13-9-12). Prediction: 6th.

Henry Kueler (MF)
Oscar Jain (MGR, 983-994)
Alexander Pearce (CB/LB, 983-999)
Luke Crisalus (ST, 983-984), (MGR, 997-1000)
Sur Arora (ST, 989-1000)
Jaclyn Maris (GK, 998-1006)
Nicola Pecoraro (CB, 1000-1008)
Warren Paysinger (RM, 1001-1010)
Jannick Kontiola (RB, 998-1012)
Galasgoldas Tathtauré (ST, 1007-1011)

Harlighet Ligan Champions 983
Harlighet Ligan Champions 984
Harlighet Ligan Champions 989
Harlighet Ligan Champions 993

SAMAJ FC
Samaj, Culmarland Fief

Nickname: Hunters
Founded: 906
Ground: Stadion Jägare (32,000)
Manager: Johannes Lundblade (48)

Transfers In: Euan Fitzstephens (Defi Rovers $1.5m), Cherry Whitecastle (Depri Sanar $1m), Alen Gvetadze (Akademija $0.5m), Dario Gvetadze (Akademija $0.5m), Iker Totorikagoena (free), Paul Muswell (Crisisbless United free)
Transfers Out: Vesina Va’Lepeh (Whitetail Foresters $8m), Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir (Real Azuris $7m), Rachel Del Arro (Mallox $3.3m)

First XI (4-2-3-1): Maston (30) - Lovelock (33), Jakoljevic (28 C), Erakin (26), Palmqvist (27) - S. Földessy (19), Vanderlei (28) - Fitzstephens (20), Møller (28), Whitecastle (21) - Jurevicius (26)

Key Reserves: Melmendier (LB/21), Pladsen (CB/29), Muswell (CB/31), Pearson (DM/32), Nathael (AM/32), Larsen (RW/24), Columbine (CAM/33), D. Gvetadze (ST/18)
Tactical Style: Defend Narrowly, Attack Wide with High-Volume Crosses

Samaj is a mid-sized city on Cosumar's western plains - the first city you would finally see after emerging from the Great Attumac Desert if you crossed its length from the far more densely-populated east. It's an old-fashioned, rustic city by Cosumarite standards, notable for still using lots of clay architecture and relatively low adoption of Cosumar's public transport and implanted language microchips. Samaj FC is the only CosumarLigan-level club in the city and is well-supported despite traditionally limited finances. Many soccer fans in smaller towns throughout the western plains region adopt Samaj as "their” HL club as well. Well, either Samaj or their biggest rival - Helfin Fief FC to the north. Samaj has actually spent more of the CosumarLigan era in the Sekundar Ligan. Prior to this current golden era for the club under Luis Varezzi and now Lundblade, its biggest claim to fame was simply being where Cosumar legend Sur Arora got his start as a rookie. Their home kit (pictured right) features their iconic diagonal-split shirt and burnt-orange shorts. Their away kit this year is solid of the shade of dark yellow found on the collar to the right, with burnt-orange lettering.

Team Preview: It's a familiar story in world football. Already-frugal club slammed with financial penalties for violations on their books going back a decade. Forced to sell key players to remain solvent and stave off a season on the sideline. But it doesn't make it less painful. It’s tough to see Va’Lepeh, Fjola and Del Arro all go, but Samaj are no strangers to selling their best players and replacing them with low-risk, high-reward bargain bin youngsters. It might’ve come a little sooner than preferred, but this could end up being just another shedding-of-skin that ends up making the team stronger. Strikers have always been able to thrive easily in Samaj’s system (Ross Rowe was a double-digit scorer before VZR and Va’Lepeh hit 20 after her), so that piece of the puzzle should be fairly straightforward to replace. Adnan Jurevicius is a big banger who has been biding his time and could be lethal if his touch has improved at all since arriving. The homegrown star wing tandem of Fjola and Del Arro will be a bigger void. They’ve gone for a numbers approach to replace them, putting ink to paper with several prospects who will battle for opportunities, most notably youth internationals Euan Fitzstephens, Cherry Whitecastle and Alen Gvetadze. The Hunters may be a frustrating watch this season, with a bevy of raw attackers all struggling at once to bed in to the league and fill the vacuum left behind. Fortunately, there is a bedrock of stability. Samaj were lucky to be able to hold on to their entire back line, prudently recognizing the likes of “Twin Towers” Tomi Jakoljevic - Carl Erakin and classy left back Ophelia Lovelock as arguably the true MVPs of their solid top half season. Szalyk Földessy is a little sparkplug of a midfielder in front of them who, at 19, has the look of a real future star. With rangy passer Rasunda Vanderlei as its linchpin in the middle, the Samaj system will remain the same: pulse balls out into the wide spaces to create situations for the wingers and fullbacks to create overlaps and run at defenders. And - customary of well-organized Johannes Lundblade sides - excel on set-pieces. Lundblade’s management and the tight defense will keep Samaj FC up, but a step back from last season is to be expected - especially in the goals column. Expect an erratic team on the western plains, with significant dry spells and intermittent flashes of potential.
Last Season: 9th (13-9-12). Prediction: 12th.

Sur Arora (ST, 988)
Thomas Teverridge (CAM, 988-999)
Allen Huthson (CF, 998-1004)
Elaine Kayton (LM, 1001-1004)
Isadora Xenophon (CF, 1003-1008)
Terje "Valfar" Bakken Sognasen (DM, 1006-1012)

None in modern CosumarLigan era

GOLDSTAFF CITY

Goldstaff, Numenvernien Fief

Nickname: Guardians
Founded: 918
Ground: Bostitch Lane (23,500)
Manager: Diego Bandos (41)

Transfers In: Cade Jones (Directus $10m), Koru Özturk (Zakhoro Aces $8.5m), Gaëlle Glidewing (IFK Aldenskoett $2m), Haruka Sutton (Myana Islanders free), Hilde Silfverberg (Sporting Ceneisis Women free)
Transfers Out: Corby Wheeler (Ramusok United $20m), Skaldir Tibrewal (Gwinevra Barbarians $9m), Margaret Tirnen (Arthiana-Bas free), Colm Farrier (retired), Samantha Goldenrod (retired), Tomp McCloud (retired)

Starting XI (5-3-2): Ravnajuv (24) - Va’Naathra (25), Toivonen (24), Sühnhold (31 C), Na’Akeh (26), Glidewing (26) - Otohime (23), Saulnesis (24), Özturk (27) - Jones (29), Bannion (30)

Key Reserves: Sutton (GK/34), Xiaopeng (LB/32), Silfverberg (CB/33), Na’Konate (CB/21), Blazek (CM/27), Zigfield (ST/35), Jelic (ST/21)
Tactical Style: Lots o' Long Balls

Goldstaff is a mid-sized city in southwestern Cosumar, about an hour inland from Crawford along the Everlong River - halfway between Crawford and Zakhoro. It is humid and semitropical - the northern edge of Everlong Rainforest is just on the other side of the river. It's a cleaner, wealthier and more aesthetically sterile city than its neighbors, a center for Cosumarite banking and home to some notable company headquarters. Goldstaff is known for its entrepreneurial spirit - a great city to do business. There were historically two major clubs here: Goldstaff City on the posher north side of the city and fifth-tier Goldstaff Athletic on the marginally more colorful south side, but the rivalry is diminished at present by the huge competitive gap between the two. City have historically been a yo-yo club between Sekundar and Tredje Ligan, but finally managed to solidify in Sekundar Ligan in this decade. They then got an unexpected promotion three years ago and have made the most of it. G-City's home hoops are shown to the right, worn with solid black shorts and black-and-gold hooped socks. This sleek away shirt is worn with solid white shorts and solid gold socks. Here's the full set together with the rust-colored keeper shirt.

Team Preview: It’s an anxious time around Bostitch Lane. Goldstaff City seem to have implanted themselves firmly into the HL lower half midtable, but they’re really testing their newfound status (and the strength of their coaching) by selling Corby Wheeler and Skaldir Tibrewal (their best two players) and expecting to stay there. Tibrewal was indispensable in both phases of play, and though Gaëlle Glidewing is a quick, capable wingback, she doesn’t have his motor, leadership or quality in the final third. Koru Özturk from Aces is a nice pick-up as a goalscoring #10 to replace Wheeler, but he tends to blow very hot and very cold. Also concerning is that their top scorer the last two seasons, Astor Zigfield, is now 35 and recovering from a hamstring injury suffered in the offseason. Enter Cade Jones. The Bonesea striker’s star burned brightly for a few years but then seemed to go dark just as fast. Who even knows if he can still hack it? The big name will sell shirts and picked up spirits after the summer sales, but could be an expensive bust as well. Aelfwynn Bannion is a formidable character up top, but probably isn’t capable of carrying the Guardians to safety if neither Zigfield nor Jones can return to their past levels. Overall, Goldstaff City did well trying to replace Wheeler, Tibrewal and Zigfield and still pocket some profit. If they can keep their heads above the water and survive this season with a somewhat depleted roster, they’ll be able to reload again next window. But they have to make it through this season first. Diego Bandos has his work cut out for him. The goal stream might run dry at times, so he’ll have to lean heavily upon cerebral defender Liam Toivonen (who impressed last season) and brawnier counterpart Adkis Sühnhold to scrape them points.
Last Season: 10th (10-11-13). Prediction: 17th, Relegation.

Gire Na'Chike (ST, 988-100)
Arwin Blaze (ST, 995-1001)
Ingolf Hegg (MGR, 991-1003)
Esa Mäenpää (L/RB, 1003-1009)
Lind Fontaine (CB, 1009-1011)

Tredje Ligan Champions 992

OLASK ISLANDERS
Olask, Olask Fief

Nickname: Islanders, Laskies
Founded: 846
Ground: Kamu Road (24,000)
Manager: Collette Sade (53)

Transfers In: Adam Kraljic (1860 Azoth $6m), Maia Abylon (IFK Sundsvall $2.75m), Guinevere (South Spire United $1.75m), Tezka Na'Tlipoca (promoted)
Transfers Out: Hera Poxay (West Brinemouth free), Larissa Canales (Chafford free), Louelle Rennold (retired)

First XI (4-4-1-1): Fielding (24) - Parchot (25), Scougall (33 C), DeKlan (28), Baker (27) - Methüzema (24), Abylon (22), Kraljic (25), Way (32) - Irwin (33) - Tzyzakoos (21)

Key Reserves: Na’Tlipoca (LB/18), Bourass (CB/23), Guinevere (DF/18), Stanfield (CM/25), Brown (CM/31), Tamburelli (RM/24), Scafidis (ST/33)
Tactical Style: High press, defend tightly as a unit

The Islanders are the biggest club in Olask Fief, which encompasses a cluster of islands off the northwesternern coast of Cosumar, but that isn't saying much. Olask is the most sparsely-populated fief, with more sheep than humans and a rocky, inhospitable terrain. It then follows, naturally, that the Islanders are one of the Härlighet Ligan's most humble clubs in terms of financial resources and facilities, having long struggled to cement themselves in the top-flight between stays in Sekundar Ligan. Sometimes, they even struggle with filling that 'ole rustbucket stadium… and the potholes in its well-trodden pitch. Yet, things have been on the up lately amidst their longest-ever HL stay, including their first foreign superstar in Chrysanthe Scafidis. The self-deprecating fanbase embraces the club's unglamorous, lower-league image and pride Kamu Road on being one of the league's most difficult away trips. The Islanders draw support from the whole of Olask Island, the largest island of the Olask Fief archipelago. Outside of the titular city of Olask, much of it is rural. They have major derbies with clubs representing two nearby Olask Fief islands, Bergtatt Isle Athletic and Pardock Island, as well as mainland northwestern neighbors Versiaville and fellow island-based side Na'Ilee Mariners. They wear iconic pewter blues (right) at home and a red x-design away.

Team Preview: What an interesting team the Islanders have become! On one hand, their defense is still reminiscent of their traditionally rugged, shin-kicking mentality. Francesca Scougall, Massif DeKlan, Daniel Baker, even goalkeeper Trent Fielding... these are all gritty players that don’t take any shit. But further up the pitch, they are becoming a team that can really play some football! They’re becoming less and less dependent on being dragged to each result by Chrysanthe Scafidis, perhaps so much so that Fion “Krazy” Tyzazakoos may actually get more of the starts this season. Cosumar, get on the Krazy Train or get run over! The heavily-tattooed and slightly unhinged youth international is fast, presses hard for turnovers and makes great runs - as we saw in her many impactful appearances last season. Jade Irwin might enjoy herself a little too much threading balls between defenders to the energetic homegrown. Supporters are praying for a full healthy season from Irwin this time in Year 2. The new-look central midfield should be fun to watch too after the club managed to get the signatures of both Maia Abylon (incredibly energetic youngster who rocketed IFK Sundsvall to consecutive promotions) and Mercedini international Adam Kraljic, a stranded star of the Terranean league. Abylon will zip all around the pitch breaking up play and finding the magic feet of Irwin, with Kraljic as a quality glue guy who can also play longer balls to the wingers. For longtime followers of the HL, it’s still a bizarre sight to see such coveted talents signing in Olask of all places. The depth is thin, but this is a team that could realistically achieve top half if everything clicks.
Last Season: 11th (10-10-14). Prediction: 11th.

Sergio Vilar (ST, 994-997)
Joseph Outerridge (CB, 988-1001)
Joseph Van Duren (CB, 997-1011)

None in modern era

KLYDE
Klyde City, North Klyde Fief

Nickname: Doves
Founded: 649
Ground: The Klyde Sportsplex (88,000)
Manager: Corey Simmons Jr. (57)

Transfers In: Vedran Tarashaj (AFC Treason $7m), Kukiri (Appleoosa HC $5m), Lynul-Savar Mal (KF Lilnim $1.5m), Peter Butterworth (Battlebrook United free), Blaire Antoniou (Tryon University), Henry Hollifield (promoted)
Transfers Out: Griffin Riordan (Mallox $8m), Gylve Roniger (Rozelle $3m), Sophia Trevelyan (Appleoosa HC free), Luella Svenskah (Chenoworth Rovers free), Teemu Tuppurainen (retired)

Starting XI (3-4-1-2): Pressinger (37 C) - Montgomery (24), Savar-Mal (31), Wheeler (28) - Abbasi-Fevison (25), Broon (24), Tarashaj (29), Kvalderkorr (24) - Fierro (26) - Gandhi (30), Turner (19)

Key Reserves: Kukiri (GK/29), Antoniou (LB/20), Beckers (R-CB/34), Butterworth (LM/25), Cornthatch (CM/35), Hollifield (CMA/17), Doyle (SS/19)
Tactical Style: Dynamic, Athletic Attack… but vulnerable on the break

Klyde are a massive club in terms of history, facilities, finances, fan passion, etc. They actually manage to sell out their giant multi-purpose stadium multiple times per season! The only problem is that, lately, they've been a "big club" basically everywhere BUT on the pitch. The Doves suffered a shocking first relegation in 1007 - just a year after finishing 4th and within a decade of being crowned league champions. They've since added a couple Sekundar Ligan trophies to their cabinet and now seem to be back to stay, but Klydians are frustrated at how long it is taking to return to their former UICA status. The club is trying to stay true to its history by maintaining an open, attractive style of play… but that doesn't necessarily translate well to the midtable slugfest. One impatient faction of supporters broke off a few years ago and started a new club to do things "better" - Klyde City - and is now trying to rise through the divisions as a challenger. Other local derbies include smaller sides representing specific Klyde neighborhoods such as Glasbon and Gwerin. Sekundar Ligan's Klyde Heritage FC - across the fief in Jädde - is also a heated opponent when the two meet. The biggest fixtures each year though, circled on every calendar, are Klyde FC's faceoffs with Real Azuris. As the dominant clubs from North Klyde Fief and South Klyde Fief, respectively, the Klyde Derby becomes a battle for all of Klyde's Isle. Klyde (the city) is one of Cosumar's oldest, dating back over 900 years - not far from where the First 5800 landed. Its port serves a critical function for sea travel between Cosumar's two main landmasses because it's where the strait is narrowest. Much of its local economy is still derived from the ocean - seafood is ubiquitous and Klyde Marina a grand time. The city is now a sophisticated metropolitan hub of 4.5 million (fourth-largest in Cosumar), but retains strong roots to the Irish and Welsh heritage of its founders. Outsiders often still think of clovers and celtic pubs when Klyde is mentioned. Klydians have a particular propensity for tea of all varieties when they aren't chugging cider and ale. At home, their Doves wear an all-purple kit with turquoise accents (pictured right). Away, the colors are inverted and turquoise becomes the dominant color. You may occasionally see a spring-green third kit.

Team Preview: Klyde are another club going all-in on the bet that a touted young striker is ready to lead them to glory. Besides Lind Pressinger, revered as a treasure in North Klyde, Griffin Riordan had been their most consistent performer since returning to the HL despite a down season. Now that Riordan’s got her deserved move to a club in UICA competition, new manger Corey Simmons Jr.has come in and passed the torch to teenage striker Cathal Turner. Moreso than any other club taking a similar leap of faith (besides maybe OAS Royal with Thor), Klyde FC seem sure to reap immediate rewards. Supporters have been crying that Turner was ready for more since he was 17. He has dominated in international youth competitions, super-sup minutes, King’s Cup starts and now the preseason circuit. He has also shown he can combine well with Ozaria Gandhi better than Riordan (those two really did not mesh). With some other promising youngsters coming through for Simmons to work with and Vedran Tarashaj (!) now in the mix, the Doves should continue their gradual flight back up the table. But, despite Tarashaj’s class, I remain unconvinced that the midfield as a whole is good enough to break into the top half. They’ll miss Gylve Roniger in defense, too, needing veteran Qusmo international Lynul-Savar Mal to replace his experience marshaling a back three.
Last Season: 12th (10-10-14). Prediction: 9th.

Tae Woo Miyori (RB, 983-998)
Blinne Va'Tuaras (GK, 983-998; MGR, 1008-)
Fraz'm'nar Gor (CAM, 997-1000)
Jorginho (MGR, 991-1005)
Benjamin Clucke (DM, 998-1005)
Anna Bowman (ST, 1003-1008)

Härlighet Ligan Champions 997
King's Cup 1003
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1008
Sekundar Ligan Chamoions 1010

PELETHAS UNITED
Pelethas, Morponte Fief

Nickname: Miners
Founded: 835
Ground: The Xanadu Dome (31,000 w third level covered)
Manager: Catherine Sedgwick (48)

Transfers In: Regatta Aspenwood (Handon United $5m), Baylo Na'Bukanm (promoted)
Transfers Out: Solomon Harm (Mulhampstead free), Craig Mallman (Invicta free), Baz Ninkey (retired)

First XI (4-2-3-1): Nier (31) - Bourillion (23), Maersk (26), Said (25), Grennan (24) - Kåsa (31 C), Crowley (29) - Aspenwood (28), Saltorius (27), Miettinen (23), Alotic (31)

Key Substitutes: Lincoln (GK/20), Brinegar (LB/37), Lingxin (CB/30), Greenchurch (DM/22), Montelius (CM/19), Tarrant (AM/37), Xandreas (AM/30), Cyn-Penzag (ST/23)
Tactical Style: Physical Defending, penetrate through the middle with Saltorius

Pelethas started as a mining community (named after 8000-meter Pelethas Peak, omnipresent behind the skyline) but has evolved over the centuries to become much more. Pelethas is a destination city. With the famous Jagged Mountains to the north and Cosumar's finest golden-sand beaches to the south, Pelethas is full of tourists regardless of season. The Mediterranean climate of the south coast also allows Pelethas to contribute to the economy via agriculture. The fruit/nut/vegetable farms aren't too exciting, so they're a bit removed from the actual city and touristy areas. Though mostly obsolete due to space mining, former mining communities still dot the land of north of Pelethas amongst the first mountain slopes. Pelethas United was borne out of a merge between Erehwon Sports Club, popular amongst miners since the area was settled, and much younger Pelethas Peak AFC - a manifestation of the town's rapid urbanization. One had the grassroots support and the other had the "new money". It was a mutually-beneficial marriage. A condition was that "United" stay true to Erehwon's roots as a miners' club in their imagery and community involvement. Pelethas United mostly led a mediocre existence in Sekundar and Tredje Ligan until being backed by a deep-pocketed tourism mogul and bankrolled up the pyramid in the last decade. It's still more of a gridiron town (Pelethas Thunder sell out their new shared stadium with far more regularity) but United are closing the gap. They wear a classic Silver & Gold kit (right) at home with the Jagged Mountains on the chest. On the road, they wear this regal crimson/gold kit.

Team Preview: After a strong top half finish in 1013, nearly everyone on the southern coast took small individual steps back in 1014. Even stalwart goalkeeper Jillian Nier. The upshot was a rather large collective step back. The Miners expected to push for a UICA place, but were mediocre out of the gates and nothing an increasingly desperate Euan Jersey said as the season wore on seemed to have any effect. The team just seemed lackadaisical and unmotivated, especially going forward. 51 goals was a stark drop-off from 73. It didn’t help that new $17m striker Iain Cyn-Penzag looked lost as well. It will be up to Nepharim manager Catherine Sedgwick to smash the reset button and fast-track the Pelethas project back to its upward trajectory pre-Xanadu Dome move. Unconvinced? Well, she’s done well with beach locales before! Those who follow Cosumarites abroad will remember her plucky San Marco Storm sides that featured Kai-Kai Mokumdarian, and rose from underdog to Champions’ Cup contender status on Port Chistopher. In preseason, Sedgwick seems to have switched Pelethas to a one-striker system (4-2-3-1), giving up on Cyn-Penzag for now and going with proven HL scorer Charlie Alotic alone up top. Pelethas still badly needs slumping #10 Saltorious Splitt to rediscover his spark, but there will be a little more creative help now that Sedgwick has recruited playmaking winger Regatta Aspenwood using her connections in Nephara - on a $5m bargain! Saltorius and Aspenwood both have a gift for improvisation. Together, the former Handon United star could be the spark Saltorius needs to get back to his old wily self. The defense - though it is young - was actually pretty good last year, so Pelethas should be poised for a rebound year if they can just get back amongst the goals. Also look for midfield youths Hestia Greenchurch and Jakki Montelius to potentially start pushing looooongtime double-pivot partners Gudrun Crowley and Jens Kåsa for minutes under a pro-youth new manager looking for “her”players.
Last Season: 13th (11-7-16). Prediction: 8th.

Jack Algar (MF, 995-1005)
Trygve Tyson (ST, 994-1007)
Ryan Carmichael (DM, 1003-1009)
Rose Kingsley (GK, 999-1012)

Tredje Ligan Champions 983
Tredje Ligan Champions 989

FC KALDUKOSIC
Kaldukosic, Kaldukosic Fief

Nickname: Victors
Founded: 756
Ground: Leviathan Arena (99,000)
Manager: Cillian Najdorf (60)

Transfers In: Chijindum Ekeh (Negus Koromanti $4m), Kristian Friedmann (IFK Aldenskoett $2.4m), Levi Woetekker (SC Torpedo Kejsarkona $1m), Anders Grienblatt (Kaldukosic Polytechnic University), Aldrikk Monvoyarrek (promoted)
Transfers Out: Ael Koron (retired), Brian Litchmoor (retired), Aspen Meratyn (retired), Arne Ulvstrom (retired), Georgina Wadimu (retired)

Starting XI (4-2-1-3): M. Flaksenhaar (25) - Friedmann (31), Satotxe (25), Rathskeller (30), Koehler (32) - Helbro (29 C), Hieri (23) - Ekeh (28) - Nisa (28), Bengochea (26), Teika (25)
Key Reserves: Monvoyarrek (GK/20), Qotile (LB/26), Y. Flaksenhaar (CB/19), Na’Jhadur (DM/22), Grienblatt (CM/22), T. Flaksenhaar (LW/19), Woetekker (ST/20)
Tactical Style: Defensive solidity first, possession-based attack

Despite an entire metropolitan hub of 16 million to draw support from, FC Kaldukosic has always been a case of unfulfilled potential. Sure, they’ve had spells of success. Six consecutive UICA berths at the dawn of the Härlighet Ligan. Three consecutive UICA berths from 1006-1008 as the culmination of the Corey Simmons Jr era. A few scattered trophies in the archaic years pre-CosumarLigan. But they’ve never been able to sustain true “big club” status or even rise above gridiron and basketball (Kaldukosic Kataklysm, Havok, Krushers…) in popularity in their own city. As a result, their nickname of “Victors” is somewhat ironic and often derided by opposing fans. Yet, FC Kal were at least a permanent HL fixture, never relegated… until 1009. They’ve only just now recovered. Is it also the dawn of an era in which FC Kaldukosic will finally truly live up to the great city they represent? Kaldukosic is one of the most important trade hubs in Atlantian Oceania, situated on the east coast of mainland Cosumarus, just south of Ramusok. The two cities' metro areas overlap to form one continuous megalopolis. Whereas Ramusok is known more for its artistic, historical and governmental importance, Kaldukosic is the mecca of Cosumarite big business. Home to booming tech, research, medical and financial industries. It has an older, more profession-oriented population than Ramusok and a higher average income. Not as much youthful energy in the nightlife and music scenes (or soccer support), but plenty of swanky, more luxurious clubs and hangouts. Moderate weather, humid in the summer. Leviathan Arena, former home of the national team, is infamous for having the steepest (and highest) stands of any stadium in Cosumar, and the colossal - even suffocating - atmosphere that results when the full 99k is sold out, though only the CFL’s Blazers regularly do so. Sitting up high and looking almost straight-down is not for fans faint of heart. At home, they wear a dark green shirt with white columns that curve towards the right shoulder and a luxurious yellow collar (pictured), paired with white shorts and dark green socks with thin yellow circles at the top. Their secondary kit is a crisp all-white shirt with dark green shorts.

Team Preview: Last season wasn’t pretty, as evidenced by the -13 GD and fewer than 1.5 goals per game, but it was enough. Cosumar’s largest city was starved for Härlighet Ligan football for surprisingly long until Cillian Najdorf took the Victors back up. Going straight back down would’ve been a cruel twist of fate for the Kaldukosic faithful after such a torturous wait. They were bottom at the midseason break, but their wonderfully Farvish winger, Kaujarre Nisa, found his goalscoring boots in the second half of the season to propel them clear of the line. Having seen their club safely into a new HL era, all the remnants of the old Kaldu guard fell away at once over this offseason. Holdovers from their previous top-flight stay, like legends Georgina Wadimu and Brian Litchmoor, retire, as do former Ceni international Ael Koron and others. Replacing Wadimu had to be Najdorf’s chief concern, as the savvy Eastfielder winger-turned-#10 was still Kaldukosic’s linchpin going forward last season, in her late 30s. He appears to have gotten his guy in Chijindum Ekeh, essentially a proxy for Wadimu - both the good and bad. Arguably the best player from Cobrio right now, Ekeh’s biggest weapon is his always-churning brain (and his free kicks), but he can be a defensive liability. Fortunately, Kaldu’s yin-yang defensive midfield (Yuri Hieri the silk, Brian Helbro the steel) is accustomed to covering for such a player. Helbro & Hieri’s partnership really blossomed in the second half of last season as well - another reason for the turnaround. And a back line with Sigrun Rathskeller, Kristian Friedmann and Mirko Koehler is always going to be one of the sturdiest in the league. To avoid the drop again and/or actually progress this season, FC Kaldukosic need someone besides to Nisa to step up and score some goals. Don’t expect that from a pass-first creator like Ekeh. Look at Inigo Bengochea. The hot prospect from Audioslavia was supposed to be last window’s big signing, but he struggled in front of goal and only managed single-digit goals in 33 starts. Safety was achieved despite that bust, but for the Victors to actually be victors more often, they need a #9 who puts the ball in the back of the net so it’s not all on Nisa. Whether that’s Bengochea…. or teenage Tredje Ligan standout Levi Woetekker.
Last Season: 14th (11-7-16). Prediction: 14th.

Corey Simmons Jr. (ST, 988-999) (MGR, 1003-present)
Grenville Antonsson (LW, 992-1004)
Dean Harold McSaunders (MF, 993-998, 1002-1008)
Chris Hodges (CF, 1000-1008)
Brian Litchmoor (CB, 1002-1014)
Georgina Wadimu (AM, 1003-1014)

King's Cup 1007

KEENAN ATHLETIC
Keenan, Cresscalus Fief

Nickname: Checkers, Bobs (short for Bobcats)
Founded: 958
Ground: DragonBull Field (21,000)
Manager: Matilda Heisenberg (61)

Transfers In: Sleipnir Woodwind (Starling $4.5m), Flare Eclipse (Felswyr Frost $2.5m), Pal Traustason (FK Odin Kjaershavn $1.5m), Kaliya Java Gula (Sindo Fief $1m), Svelta Byfuglien (promoted)
Transfers Out: Meekku Aspendelft (FC Capri $2m), Häkon Fen (Royal Baktiputa free), Rone Kindgren (retired), Jakob Gullmarstam (retired)

First XI (4-1-2-3): Verhoek (24) - Java Gula (21), Malleom (24), Waz (25), Fortidoré (29) - Lewitzki (32) - Cirvante (27), Woodwind (28) - Cutnine (25), Spisic (26), Sade (25 C)

Key Reserves: Petterson (GK/39), Flare Eclipse (DF/30), Traustason (DM/26), Arieli (CM/22), Chandilize (CAM/28), Frederick (ST/36), Byfuglien (ST/18)
Tactical Style: Expansive, Flowing Attack

Ah, oft-forgotten Keenan, viewed by many as little more than a midway stop on the Hyperloop between Cassandra and popular Pristinia cities like Hagenheim or Aldenskoett. Keenan originally blossomed into an influential city due to its place on the Pristine River, which flows from east to west across northern Cosumar. Back in the day, it was an important trade stop along the river downstream from Cassandra. In the last century or two, however, Keenan had more or less grown stagnant, with little new growth or development. It was one of Cosumar’s lowest major cities in employment, average income and quality of life. In the last decade or so, however, Keenan has been amidst a civic rejuvenation as the rest of Cosumar has “rediscovered” its underappreciated natural beauty and charming cultural blend of Pristinia hippy-quirkiness and Cassandra thrill. Keenan has now become the new trendy city for young people who are too cool (or can’t afford) to move to Ramusok or Cassandra. This has presented a great business opportunity for Keenen Athletic, as this influx of new citizens and new money has coincided with their own rebirth of success. Traditionally a yo-yo side between the second and third divisions, Athletic finally managed to cement themselves in Sekundar Ligan in recent years and now find themselves amongst the best in the Fiefdom again thanks to a great homegrown core. It’s a reimagined city with a reimagined club to rally around as the embodiment of all its progress. That’s pretty exciting! Keenan Athletic are known for their black and red checkers at home, contrasted by their more subtle grey checkers with red shorts on the road. There was a storm of controversy a few years ago when they renamed their historic grounds after primary sponsor DragonBull, but the outrage has mostly been dropped by all but the most die-hard longtime supporters now. So much of the Checkered Army supporters group nowadays is composed of young transplants who aren’t that attached to the history anyways.

Team Preview: They won the SBCC in their last competitive fixture (over the team above), and now Keenan Athletic could be dark horse candidates to push upwards in the league table. Just goes to show that a club’s faith can be rewarded when you stick with a manager like Matilda Heisenberg through a relegation and allow them to continue building towards their vision. There’s a real energy around this team now after how they ended last season with the successful survival push and the trophy, and much of it is centered around star wingers Elodie Sade and Caitlin Cutnine. Sade in particular could be due for a big move soon after notching double-digit goals AND assists last season. The fullbacks also love to spring forward and combine with them on the overlap (Cosumar U21 left back Kaliya Java Gula in particular will have eyes on her as she makes her HL debut). Dinko Spisic has become highly efficient cleaning up any scraps they leave behind in the box. Sleipnir Woodwind should form a beautiful and classy midfield with Lethe Cirvante, both capable of making use of the full field with their passes and finding the wingers in good spots. Hal Lewitzki or Pal Traustason will be an Iron Man behind them, there to smother any leakages with crunching tackles. Sometimes the one destroyer isn’t enough and the Checkers’ slightly-wobbly defense is put in compromising positions when the opposition springs the other way, but the idea is that Sade & Co. will hit paydirt more often. I like this team and they’re a pleasure to watch, but there’s a definite risk to being so ambitious with your style of play when you’re a smaller club.
Last Season: 15th (10-9-15). Prediction: 13th.

Bethan Davies (RW, 996-1001)
Rory Den Hartog (ST, 992-1002)
Rone Kindgren (CB, 998-1014)
Jakob Gullmarstam (RW, 1007-1014)

Tredje Ligan Champions 984
Tredje Ligan Champions 999
Tredje Ligan Champions 1002
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1013
Series B Champions’ Cup 68 (1014)

Stay tuned for the final part of this preview, coming soon.

[Cosumar]

AC HOLMENKOLLEN
Holmenkollen, Ramusok Fief

Nickname: Cedars
Founded: 951
Ground: Cedar Road (21,000)
Manager: Curtis Théberge (38)

Transfers In: Mathilda Jaeger (Felswr Frost $3m), Dean Živković (Welanduz Vadshult $1m), Adrian Spekter (Riverside Crew $0.5m), Lavender Jameson (New Belfast Warriors free), Teor Rwang (Real Azuris free)

First XI (4-1-3-2): Vylon (28) - Grandstaber (25), Na’Nockeby (35 C), Borbély (20), Tidesson (19) - Kolomainen (22) - Jameson (30), Romo (24), Stilic (19) - Jaeger (28), Riprov (28)

Key Reserves: Sappington (LB/20), Skannendev (CB/25), Živković (CB/20), Wynder (RB/21), McSorley (LW/23), Mirzayev (CM/36), Spekter (CAM/28), Rwang (ST/33)
Tactical Style:Keep the ball on the ground and build possession with positional fluidity, but with a sense of forward urgency (few backward passes)

While OAS Royal and Ramusok United wage war for hearts and minds in the capital's urban core, Athletic Club Holmenkollen keeps quietly doing its thing in the posh northern suburbs. It started out as a recreational all-sports club exclusively serving the upper-middle class adults of the area. Before long, those suburban families wanted to enroll their kids in activities at the club too and the youth football academy was born - one of the first of its kind in Cosumar. It was well-funded and so immediately successful that a senior team followed a few years later and began competing in Cosumar's messy primordial domestic circuit. The club's primary purpose soon shifted away from serving Ramusok's elite as an athletic country club. While Holmenkollen residents can still buy membership and go to "the AC" for their squash and badminton, the football team is the focus. Unable to keep up with Ramusok's two giants financially due to their smaller geographic footprint, AC Holmenkollen have instead doubled-down on their youth-centric identity. The academy remains arguably Ramusok's finest, and they charge like it. As a selling club, their player turnover is high, but they've historically been able to punch high above their weight when the waves of talent have aligned. Fans at the cozy, intimate Cedar Road still swell with pride whenever they finish above Royal or United. Or whenever they look up at that 1005 COCANEFA Cup banner. Whenever possible, they wear their beloved pale-blue and red zag shirt (pictured), with solid white shorts and red socks. In the event of clashing colors, they wear a white shirt blue shorts and red socks.

Preview: AC Holmenkollen have been buoyed back to the Härlighet Ligan by a golden generation of youth. The movement was spearheaded by reigning Sekundar Ligan PoTY Gabrielo Romo (22 assists last season), and the likes of elegant 20-year old defender Kund Borbély, midfield patroller Ariadne Kolomainen, quick-footed winger Oksana Stilic (17 at the start of last season and already impressive) and on-loan El Faro product Tilda Tidesson (yes, one of those Tidessons) have cropped up behind him. Each of these players simultaneously became true professionals last season, and it was a joy to watch. Even the manager was much the same! Curthis Théberge, once a Golden Boot winner for Ramusok United, returned to the Cosumarite capital for his very first managerial gig and was always a lively presence on the touchline. They all imprinted their youthful effervescence on every match, and it was infectious. Even grizzled captain Ektorp Na’Nockeby (long known as the Vloo CB with the chipped horn) was running around like a spring chicken again at times. But any team that gets promoted on the backs of youngsters needs to infuse some experience for the transition. For example, a majority of Romo’s 22 assists were to Lili Riprov, a physical, combative striker and longtime servant of the club. She has feasted well on Sekundar Ligan defenses but still longs to prove she can do it consistently at the top level. At 28, this could be her best chance. As far as players with ample top-flight experience go, Riprov and Na’Nockeby were pretty much all the Cedars had, however. They needed more. So, where better to look for veterans who have weathered myriad adversities than Nephara? Mathilda Jaeger and Lavender Jameson aren’t household Premiership names, but they’re quality signings and good value at a combined $3.5 million. Jaeger is a perfect fit to play between the lines in support of main striker Riprov, and technical winger Jameson has always had more production in her than she’s been able to show due to injuries and bad club luck. Like Riprov, this could be her platform to finally shine. If not, pacy young Schottic Katie McSorley will be eager to win her starting spot back. This AC Holmenkollen side has oodles of potential, and while the dearth of HL experience could signal a rocky landing, it’s hard to see them blinking twice under the charismatic leadership of Théberge.
Last Season: Sekundar Ligan Champions (21-7-6). Prediction: 15th.

Rikki Varshney (ST, 957-964)
Dmytro Kurosawa (ST, 997-1001)
Neville Bloxham (CB, 992-1005)
Lilly Kearney (GK, 1002-1009)
Adnan Valerikssen (RM, 999-1010)
Funanya Nwapa (CM, 1004-1011)
Marco Luna (LB, 1001-1011)

Sekundar Ligan Champions 992
Sekundar Ligan Champions 997
COCANEFA Cup 1005
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1014

FEVELO COLONY
Bildeventure, Fevelo

Nickname: Cavedwellers
Founded: 945
Ground: Fevelo Field (15,000)
Manager: Paaron Petrov (48)

Transfers In: Tim Huel (Oldem Knights $1.5m), Alexis Barker (Prava Leveg $0.15m), Connor Morbrand (Athletic Club Araucária free), Krisztian Kemény (promoted), Annuska Benedek (promoted)
Transfers Out: Apollo Demetriou (retired), Craig O’Maramy (retired)

Starting XI (3-5-2): Berzins (29) - Kent (27), Hedepolly (33 C), MacIldoon (24) - Solignac (25), Ardanova (24), Paupon (27), Kelidan (27), Ferdinand (30) - Odóma (19), Morbrand (27)

Key Reserves: Barker (GK/20), Kocsis (LB/19), Ešenvalds (CB/27), Huel (DM/24), Swarthimore (RM/33), Kemény (CM/16), Benedek (ST/18)
Tactical Style: Disorganize the opponent with work rate, with a hint of unexpected street flair on the ball

Consult this slightly outdated page for everything you need to know about the colony and the planet it inhabits. To summarize, Cosumarite settlements on Fevelo are entirely subterranean, contained in giant underground caverns because the surface is unsafe for reasons too numerous to count. There are seven such official settlements, of which Bildeventure - where the club is located - is the largest and most centrally-located. It's somewhat remarkable that Fevelo is the first colony to breach the top-flight given that it's also one of the least-populated at under 200,000 permanent residents. Bildeventure's Fevelo Field is the only regulation-sized stadium on the planet, shared by a number of lower-league sides as well. What Fevelians lack in numbers, however, they make up for in enthusiasm and work ethic. The people there are descended from self-sacrificing explorers, long-suffering pilgrims and outcasts. With limited options to devote their free time to underground, they go CRAZY for their favorite two sports: curling and… football. There is a street culture to Fevelian culture that has arguably been lost back on terrestrial Cosumar, and that could explain why the tiny colony has produced some of Cosumar's greatest creative talents in Paaron Petrov and Isla Sibučić. Now that its flagship club, Fevelo Colony, has worked its way up from Tredje to Sekundar to Härlighet Ligan, pretty much everybody offworld will be rooting them on. Fevelo Field may only seat an intimate 15,000, but the Cavedwellers now have supporters far-flung across the stars looking to them for inspiration.

Preview: And the rest of the league groans. Everybody’s favorite away trip... through interstellar space, toxic atmospheric gases and subterranean elevators... is back! Fevelo Colony FC thrives on its cohesive identity centered around the unique footballing culture on the planet (almost a street style), so it makes sense that, like Holmenkollen, they’ve mostly re-stocked their squad with academy products rather than targeting big transfers. 19-year-old Domé Odóma was very promising up top last season with his blindingly fast runs and quick feet, and they’ll be hoping fellow homegrown Annuska Benedek can join the senior ranks and follow in his footsteps. Connor Morbrand is also an x-factor, joining up after terrorizing the ~Natanian~ league and garnering some half-serious buzz (if we’re being generous) for the Brenecian national team. It’s concerning that these are their top three goalscoring options, to say the least. Two teenagers and a meme player? I feel for Paaron Petrov. I love the man, but he’s in a tough spot if he’s putting all his marbles on one of these strikers being an instant hit. Because the Cavedwellers can’t afford a slow start - they’ll need every point they can get - and even his legendary status on Fevelo won’t be able to save his head after a second relegation in three years. The good news is that the rest of the core from their HL stop two years ago remains largely intact. Box-to-box midfielders Via Ardanova and Scion Keldian are probably the best two Fevelian players not-named-Isla right now. Aurora Solignac has quality up and down the left side. D-mid Paulie Paupon (and now Tim Huel... maybe? He wanted somewhere exciting, he got it.) is a fringe international for a strong country. Andris Berzins could be a decent HL goalkeeper - he won Silver Glove last year. With one Härliget Ligan campaign under their belts this time, they might be able to stick the landing better. But I doubt it. They have even less depth and offense firepower than during their relegation two years ago. It would take something special from… someone.
Last Season: 2nd in Sekundar Ligan (20-5-9). Prediction: 18th, Relegation.

Jānis Putenis (CF, 981-989)
Paaron Petrov (CAM, 987-998) (MGR, 1011- )
Apollo Demetriou (ST, 1009-1014)

None in modern CosumarLigan era

TREFTADAETH ALLIANCE
Ashen Point, Parougan Fief

Nickname: Astronomers
Founded: 979
Ground: The Wormhole (28,000)
Manager: Apple Jack (37)

Transfers In: Kai Poirier (CS Saint-Rémy $4m), Tarmé (Zakhoro Ace $3.5m), Preston Brotherford (Northern Stallions $2m), Kragg Thursson (Na’Ilee Mariners $1m), Gristlecharm (Baltimore Dynamo $0.25m), Lorne Morten (Revanigruud Riversharks $0.25m), Jason Goulding (Cassandra City free), Rochelle Sinema (promoted)
Transfers Out: Apple Jack (retired), Nidia De Leon (retired), Mike La Rock (retired)

First XI (4-2-3-1): Poirier (30) - Teijeiro (22), Champali (33 C), Brotherford (27), Shakir (26) - Thursson (29), Maloney (32) - Robitaille (26), Perrodien (19), Tarmé (26) - Miller (25)

Key Reserves: Martinsky (GK/35), Morten (CB/20), Gates (RB/17), Gristlecharm (DM/20), Mäntysaari (AM/33), Goulding (FW/34), Almeida (CF/24)
Tactical Style: Route One, baby

Soccer and supernovas? There might not be a club quite like Treftadaeth Alliance outside of Cosumar. Centuries ago, a cult society of astronomers founded a settlement called "Ashen Point" at the very tip of Cosumar's infamous, uninhabited northern peninsula. They wanted to study the stars with perfect clarity away from any pollution or distractions. Cosumar's burgeoning astronomical community at the time used Welsh as its code language, much like how other societies use Latin. "Treftadaeth" roughly translates to "Inheritance", as this branch of devout astronomers espoused a theory that its study would deliver Cosumar its national inheritance. They weren't wrong! Breakthroughs in space travel would begin to transform Cosumarite society beyond imagining in the coming decades. Anyways, the commune at Ashen Point eventually grew to include academics of all scientific persuasions. Today, it is a full-fledged town of 90,000 - home to a prestigious university and several research institutes. Besides having Cosumar's highest IQ, it remains Cosumar's most isolated and frostbitten city, a little oasis of civilization surrounded by Dragon Reserve and the northern ocean. So where does the football come in? Well, in the 970s, Treftadaeth Alliance started looking for ways to differentiate itself from a rival astronomical society (Seryddywr Alliance) in Aberaeron, North Klyde. With rumblings that a formalized football pyramid would be introduced in the coming years, their creative solution was to launch their own footballing arm to get in on the ground floor! They called themselves "the Astronomers" and, for the first few seasons, some of the actual researchers played on the team and they hired astronomy interns based on who could double as a depth defender! (Promotions came eventually after they started signing actual footballers). Today, full-time astronomers at the Alliance are still involved in the front office. Due to the scientific culture in the fabric of the club, they're huge into sports analytics. Remember that rival astronomical society? They'd copy Trefta a few years later, creating a natural enmity with third-tier "Seryddwyr Aberaeron", although they rarely play competitively. In practice, Alliance are bigger rivals with their nearest geographic neighbors (which isn't saying much) across Parougan Fief, FC Samotath. Traditional black-and-white striped kit with a light grey watermark of the famous Treftadaeth telescope. Alternate kit is a golden yellow shirt covered with constellations of small navy stars, with navy shorts and gold socks.

Preview: Ah, finally a club that went on a proper shopping spree to herald their return to glory. It’s been a few years since Alliance have competed at this level, and they only just secured the promotion, so upgrades were definitely needed all across the pitch. Kelssek international Kai Poirier doesn’t have to win the Golden Glove to be the goalkeeper upgrade supporters have been asking for for the better part of a decade. He’s reliable and an internationally experienced leader. Just the kind of guy a newly-promoted side needs in the back. Preston Brotherford comes in in front of him, partnering with club legend Cosudel Champali. Champali is a smallish, cerebral center back, so it’s a good thing Brotherford has brawn and bite in spades. Some have questioned the Brenecian’s cultural fit at an oddity of a club that actually purports to consider a player’s scientific literacy and intellectualism (I mean, does he know how to compose a complete sentence? Without a media guy’s help?), but all but the most stringent of old-school fans won’t care as long as he can get in the heads of opposing strikers. The other big signing is tricky right winger Tarmé, too good to go down with the Aces. She hasn’t always delivered end-product, but she has the skill with the ball to make things happen alongside Toussaint Robitaille and breakout teenage sensation Stemmon Perrodien in a three-pronged attacking midfield. Giant, outspoken Chromatik Isaiah Miller and comparatively-small-but-usually-considered-large Irene Almeida will battle for the minutes as the target forward in the box. It’s difficult to project the playstyle with certainty due to Apple Jack having absolutely zero management track record to analyze (he only just retired from his role as a player-coach!), but Alliance have historically gone for unabashedly direct, Route-One football. So Miller and/or Almeida will be important. Jason Goulding will also undoubtedly figure into the rotation mix. He’s 34 now, but the versatile Quebecois proved over the years in Cassandra that he can score goals from any attacking position. Arguably the Astronomers’ most valuable attacking weapon, however, is actually… left fullback Baldomero Teijeiro. The Farf youngster is basically another winger in practice when they surge forward, and positively sparkled in Sekundar Ligan last season. Winning U21 PoTY as a defender isn’t easy. The Wormhole would instinctively get on its feet every time the ball found its way to him wide left. It will be interesting to see how he handles the challenge of defending HL wingers, however. The depth has also been bolstered with quality pieces like Mariners hard man Kragg Thursson, dragon Gristlecharm, and Revanigruud King’s Cup standout Lorne Morten. Treftadaeth Alliance have the look of a solid side on paper, but with this many new pieces, you never know if they will congeal into a functional team fast enough.
Last Season: 3rd in Sekundar Ligan (17-11-6). Prediction: 16th, Relegation Playoff.

Calib McCaskill (CB, 994-1010)
Nidia De Leon (RB, 1001-1014)

Tredje Ligan Champions 994
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1001
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1007

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SEKUNDAR LIGAN INCOMING
Brenecian goalkeeper Max Thickett (31, San Marcos FC) has joined West Gundar
Cosumarite center mid Farrokh Adikhari (27, Nuur Origins FC) has joined Centus Serpents
Cosumarite goalkeeper Faroon Sethi (19, College of the Attumac) has joined Versiaville
Cosumarite right back Aleena Tholanikunnal (26, Wirr Tsi Shock) has joined Centus Serpents
Cosumarite goalkeeper Viktor Von Kuler (18, Rocinante Prep. School) has joined Na’Ilee Mariners
Cosumarite playmaker Erwan Writ (28, Riverside Crew) has joined IFK Sundsvall
Crystal Empire right back Night Frost (24, Equestrian Outcasts HC) has joined Pristine Forest
Nepharim right back Conrad Trelliston (26, Newrook City) has joined Helfin Fief
Sarrbi striker Salgin Ordruvor (32, Cenial Liberty) has joined Na’Ilee Mariners

OTHER COSUMARITES JOINING NEW CLUBS ABORAD
Alana Acock (RM, 33, Stade-National) has joined Royal Baktipura (ERA) on free transfer
Raul Akkad (RW, 16, Kolanola Elite Dev. Academy) has joined Cloudsdale Flyers (EQS)
Dakota Blaylock (ST, 25, Kirk Preston United) has joined Northern Union (BRE) for $5m
Bjorn-Axel Borchgardt (RB, 26, Helfin Fief) has joined Exton FC (APX) for $5m
Katrina Brasic (RW, 32, Pikemouth) has joined Southwinds HC (CRY) on free transfer
The Bruce (CB, 32, New Llama Capitals) has joined Manechester City HC (EQS) on free transfer
Alvin Burnsides (MGR, 59, Willox Street Pirates) has joined Istria City FC (BNJ)
Amadeus Chisqu (AM, 22, Zakurya) has joined Verda Zephyr (OSR) on free transfer
Dolores Ciboney (RW, 21, Bara Waves) has joined Royal Baktipura (ERA) for $2.5m
JayRoy Cranleigh (CB, 25, New Belfast Warriors) has joined Hugh Town Millionaires (DAR) for $3.6m
Mehmet Curwyk (LW, 24, Port Sebastian) has joined Farrenton Athletic (EUR) for $9m
Loic Daumre (GK, 18, Rocinante Prep. School) has joined Surf Jettica (VIL)
Gianluc De Oca (GK, 21, AC Stonehenge) has joined Gwinevra Barbarians (APX) for $2.3m
Harald Fireblade (CM, 23, Tir Snake Strike) has joined Herzegovina City FC (BNJ) for $3.5m
Renaud Fournier (GK, 33, Kyrinson) has joined Dynamo Sainati (ASU) on free transfer
Falk Hammesfahr (RB, 34, AC Sainati) has joined Viltvodle City (SRS) on free transfer
Nneoma Hasanu (GK, 32, Crossroads Crusaders) has joined Stahlburg City (NPH) for $1.5m
Yulia Heidt (RB, 22, Tryon University) has joined Iron City (NPH)
Sett Horn (CF, 25, Dundee) has joined Diamondqueen (NPH) for $3.5m
Robard Horvat (CM/DM, 31, Lammerton) has joined Vermillion Rage (NPH) for $3.5m
Euan Jersey (MGR, 52, Pelethas United) has joined Hoventon & Corlington Town (MRC)
Kathryn Kvanderwyk (ST, 31, Cornellians) has joined AFC Corvistone (NPH) for $4m
Yunsik Kvownik (DM, 22, Northampton) has joined Barbury Town (APX) for $3m
Deirdre McNessa (CB, 35, San Marco Storm) has joined Orizuru Turic (OSR) on free transfer
Kai-Kai Mokumdarian (CM, 22, Cornellians) has joined Jungle Strike FC (VIL)
Shjegrzh Na’Kefir (GK, 27, Handon United) has joined Crisisbless (NPH) for $10m
Jenny Na’Matsoo (AM, 29, Tir Snake Strike) has joined Hullbury Town (ETN) for $2m
Ayana Na’Roogn (CM, 26, Otkins Numenvernia) has joined Canterlot Royals (EQS) on free transfer
Noor Na’Saan (CM, 23, Korriga) has joined Westpike (BRE) for $2m
Tekeh Na’Vatajin (MGR, 42, Zakhoro Aces) has joined Ponyville Galaxy (EQS)
Tore Na’Verii (AM, 22, Athletic New Victoria) has joined Falkner United (BRE) for $1m
Jarek Nerkko (CM, 16) has joined Centre For Excellence (MRC)
Josa Parra (RAM, 30, Stoneshore United) has joined Foxchester Raiders (STB) on free transfer
Alexander Pearce Jr. (CB, 25, Marionville) has joined Brigham (EUR) for $5m
Richard Pearce (LW, 22, Cornellians) has joined Honeybadgers (EUR) for $6m
Ruye Pentakota (CB, 22, New Llama Capitals) has joined SC Rinaldi (VAL) for $3m
Kendron Pertzborn (CM, 24, Sindo Fief) has joined Krynki (SOU)
Claudian Polastri (CM, 19, Azuris A&M) has joined Unioneers (EUR)
Cosimo Poole (AM, 31, AFC Ruby) has joined Jhanna City (STB) on free transfer
Brogan Poppey (ST, 24, DFC) has joined Armstrong (NPH) on free transfer
Lacy Profressice (RW, 24, Myana) has joined Hondo FC (VAL) for $6.5m
Lorinda Reams-Smelton (LM, 23, New Dundee Star) has joined Arthiana-Bas (PAS) on free transfer
Alistair Redalen (ST, 34, Rosbank Town) has joined Megabrantid SC (SRS) on free transfer
Ann Reus (ST, 24, Pardock Island) has joined Parrhesia United (NPH) for $2.5m
Aron Riise (ST, 24, Helfin Fief) has joined Oakstone (EUR) for $8m
Villanelle Rizzari (ST, 17) has joined Centre For Excellence (MRC)
Isla Sibučić (AM, 24, Cornellians) has joined Cednia Beach AFC (TUR) for over $20m (undisc.)
Kiva Sirleaf (GK, 24, Revanigruud Riversharks) has joined Cranequin Wanderers (NPH) for $0.75m
Timo Sorben (MGR, 40, New Llama Capitals) has joined FC Barciddia (OSR)
Johannes Sulo (MGR, 59, Cosumar U21 NT) has joined Hamiltonian Cambria (KSK)
Vara Swan (RB, 30, San Marco Storm) has joined Crystal Fair HC (EQS) for $4.5m
Shule Turgotten (RB, 24, Easthaven Centurion) has joined Verda Zephyr (OSR) for $2m
Argus Valvutar (LW, 22, Revanigruud Riversharks) has joined Dangerford (EUR)
Rowan Varghese (AM, 32, Tihon) has joined Northern Union (BRE) for $4m
Blinne Va’Tuaras (MGR, 46, Klyde) has joined Karak Ungor Chiefs (STB)

OTHER RETIREMENTS
Notable foreigners and capped Cosumarites marked by flag

Phoenix Abernathy (ST, 35, Na’Ilee Mariners)
Selena Aliena (CM, 36, Ragaman [DAI])
Aidan Andela (CAM, 37, Stoneshore United)
Arratay Aqualung (GK, 37, Klyde Heritage)
Hemnes Belfry (CB, 36, Canalave Dragons)
Leonídas Bregoo (CM, 33, Polaris [CEN])
Kristine Cepelova (AM, 35, Cenial Liberty [CEN])
Diette Daleiden (CB, 36, Kirston Union [PCR])
Carlo Dellavedova (LM, 36, Evenfar FC [PAS])
Tamarus Dixon (CB, 34, Nandaozhou Sharks [SLL])
Rupert Folchart (LM, 36, AFC Langtree [MRC])
Renelle Glatthorn (RB, 35, Urheddiao United [CMT])
Tallulah Harig (RW, 36, Myana [CMT])
Kira Jonassen (CM, 36, Stoneshore United)
Delwyth Jonferth (38, Edmonton United [VLD])
Asher Larned (AM, 35, Versiaville)
Jesper Lindroos (LM, 36, Centus Serpents)
Jukka Lindroos (LB, 40, Marine Coast United [VIL])
Mursill Lubiflor (ST, 35, Emerald City Harmony [SLL])
Mabry Jean Lowry (RB, 34, Asterion [CEN])
Kaci Messer (LM, 36, Southside Wanderers [NPH])
Jade Meyer (RB, 36, Versiaville)
Spimoc Na’Amoseh (72, MGR, Tir Snake Strike [CEN])
Lupa Na’Bengna (ST, 33, Newport Sirens [PCR])
Efe Na’Kele (CB, 37, Stoneshore United)
Ike Na’Koziol (AM, 34, Kesselberg Kickers [PDN])
Veljko Na’Tokeho (RB, 34, Saint Derby FC [RZN])
Asa Nemtheanga (CF, 37, Lake Cenial Chimeras [CEN])
Aililiath Nerenn (CB, 36, Mar Sara [VAL])
Kelkath Pawklukiewicz (LB, 37, Chromatik Capitalizt [CMT])
Carmine Quaglia (LB, 35, Zakhoro Aces)
Magali Quaranta (ST, 34, Centus Serpents)
Kasper Schuldiner (GK, 39, New Oxford Nucleus [CEN])
Ramone Scotta (CF, 35, New Island [SCT])
Everett Seymour (CB, 38, Emerald City Harmony [SLL])
Sierra Silverton (LB, 38, Paulinthal FC [PAS])
Anne Simonsen (RB, 38, West Gundar)
Leonard Starblaydish (ST, 34, Verisaville)
Ezekiel Tarkanian (RM, 35, Helfin Fief)
Tomasso Tenebrosa (RB, 37, FC Soessch [SCT])
Soren Winterkorn (ST, 34, Willox Street Pirates [PCR])
Augen Wittevrongel (AM, 36, Vaduz Portcullis [AVN])

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Zakhoro Aces
Best Players: LW Makenna Scripps, DM Neptune Jödegaard

IFK Aldenskoett
Best Players: ST Declan Smith, CM Imanol Uranga

Helfin Fief
Best Players: ST Adrien Borges, CB Thoralf Brynjolfsson

Stoneshore United
Best Players: CAM Benci Gölöncsér, CM Tychicus

Na'Ilee Mariners
Best Players: GK Jeremy McNott, RW Sezon Na’Sugadaleh

Morponte Fief
Best Players: RB Jorj Pjetrovic, ST Moor Abbasi

Ziemelu Skaida
Best Players: DM Ehab Amkura, RM Xandria Springgate

Gwynt Tywyll
Best Players: GK Cema Creed, CM Ferdinand Absalon

Centus Serpents
Best Players: RB Aleena Tholanikunnal, CM Farrokh Adikhari

Nomad Brotherhood FC
Best Players: GK Thea Henson, CB Grant Meador

FC Flen
Best Players: FW Nine Nokkentvek, DM Lea Minter

Versiaville
Best Players: CF Sirena Va'Drevu, LM Eugenio Prescott

Regalia City
Best Players: LB Tree Harper, CB Matthias Whyteleafe

IFK Sundsvall
Best Players: RW Ronin Yelich, CAM Erwan Writ

Revanigruud Riversharks
Best Players: MF Ronson Ramirez, ST Tegsune Na’Japuna

Sontäfe City
Best Players: DM Erridupizir Na’Verii, CB Gregor Fitzhugh

Pristine Forest
Best Players: GK Synara Redd, RB Night Frost

West Gundar
Best Players: DM Prisma Zalzaria, CB Jericho Bonn

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Seryddwyr Aberaeron
Riverside Crew
Sindo Fief
Fort Archer
Cassandra Cosmopolitan
Otkins Numenvernia
AFC Obscura 98
Pardock Island
Klyde Heritage FC
Rexnor District 3
AC Sepultura
Portsmouth FC
Bergtatt Isle Athletic
White Tower FC
SC Torpedo Kejsarkona
West Devellin
Nuur Origins FC
Atletisk Surpronuk
Caledon Legion
Everlong FC
Rexnor District 5
Azure Lane FC

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Conference Cosumarus

Brayllor Town
Forest Hill FC
Esterhollow Harbor
Hvalsey 08
Larkinham Town
Dvinko Black Heart
Yambridge City
Tamiat Town
Dawchire Town
Sarmon
Hagenheim South End
Black Diamond Osterhaut
Talmusok City
Cassandra City II
Crawford Sharks SC
Volmachtia Kaldukosic
Club Toftir
Woods of Ypres
East Devellin
High Noon FC
Highlanders
Real Bellavista
AC Opjenheim
Wealdheim Bards
Sporting Culmar
Rhithlungwerddon Town
Falco Na'Diveh
Gamma City Zakhoro


Conference KC

Tierra Interstellar Wanderers
Tornline
Silk FC
Salfa City
Sammet Ridge
Gnoss Gallants AFC
Aberaeron Celtic
Kalloroda United
Meryuma Marshals
Atlético Oterro
CD Panteras Nueces
Treacherous Cove AFC
Sadenia Paladins
Aläng FF
Klyde City
Interstellar Erurok
Emerald Cove
Rhodes Ravens AFC
Wiedna Town
Levithia Shrievenzale

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Sólstafir
VfL Läutenstadt
Usk Town
IFK Nordön
FK Pentagram Pjattervid
Hamlack Town
Svart-Guld Klingaställe
Real Azuris II
Villa Forsetti
FC Kviststad
Wilmontsbloom Blue Star
Noumen Town
Gwerin Athletic
Moggington County
Atletisk Kvelertak
Cerulia City FC
Flithby Town
Satyricon Nemeses AFC
Gibwir Marsnal
Glasbon SC
Erpland County
Ardamirchan Isle United
Baymar Lagune
Oppland 806
Noths Castle
Orias-Kvissle SC
Oxbow Lake
Lindsborg Premier
Klyde II
Gamlasir




Chesterton Cottagers
Cadonica United
Cape Dutch Copperheads
Somberlain FC
AFC Wernersburg
Atletisk Östrad
Ingleton Town
Coppell City FC
FC Samotath II
AFC Centus
Marshall-Blue FC
Östrad Rockets FC
Dusk Athletic
Scarromere FC
FC Stellendam
East Gundar
Zirconim City
Paulsendam Town
Nabataea
IFK Sokuldijak
United FC of Stoneshore
Sporting Corrian
1. FC Guggenheim
Interstellar Östrad
Ramusok United II
FC Kaldukosic II
OAS Royal FC II
Eastweald II
Mallox II
IFK Keukenhok




Gladsax Chariot FC
Moore Hill Pirates
Scarborough
FC Kastanjestad
SC Cirith 01
Ajatarra Alligators
Lykathea City
FC Fejd
Attumac Wanderers
Malm Town
Mintwick Marmots
Goldsoul FC
Gorgoroth
Hassaburess Athletic
Austentrapp City FC
Jotungard 99 FC
Carnessa County
Impera Town
Columbia Town
Briquia Southside FC
Keldin Town
FC Invierness 912
Morponte Fief II
Ombra Castle
Harlegan Rovers
Club Varden
Heofoncandel Uré
Taigaen Plats
Nexus Magens FC
Braumhill




Inter Juta
IFK Karlsborg
Sporting Pirankoper
SC Swamport
Stortrommeby Town
Ayr Athletic
Olympique Sur Mer
West Ellum
Grayslake
SEP Bjärnum
Yellow Meadow Lynwood
Klovstad Klub
Bayford City
Chamomile Town
Crawford City FC II
East Ellum
FC Va'Lubasa
Rhupenhoven Town
Yuonela Town
FC Arkadius
Tromsdale Town
FC Na'Travii
Thergothon
Drummond's FC
Duval Town
Theli City
Miklagaard Salvation
Red Star Karbosic
FC1. Richtofen Avalanche
Goldstaff Athletic




Kreanoltha Vipers
Templar-Lune FC
Drahva United
Buscari Bridge Force
Tranquility Treepolis
Varvonti Firestorm
Piander Falls FC
Alstagruuket Sarlaccs FC
Murkwaamp Suns
Borzac Sequins
Rexnor District 7
Ciems Mungonduvia
FC Dynamo Kurbads
NOVIA Alliance
Tonsei Tumult
Orion Wanderers
Marinus City
Menoptera United SC
Romstafar Outpost
Rexnor District 4
Rexnor District 2
Rexnor District 6
Rexnor District 8
Rexnor District 9
Sporting Club Macofor
Dockery Union
Exxeco Station
Whitestone Athletic
New Hagenheim Canopy
Snaigow Hoarfrost

[Cosumar]

Champions' Cup - Third Preliminary Round

(NFX)      Transit Authority SC    1–4    Crawford City FC          (COS)   1–2   0–2

Globe Cup - Second Preliminary Round

(STL)              SW Stahlberg    2–0    Mallox                    (COS)   2–0   0–0

Globe Cup - Third Preliminary Round

(COS)               Real Azuris    6–1    Maethoru SC               (KOR)   3–1   3–0

Series B Champions' Cup - First Preliminary Round

(COS)      Treftadaeth Alliance    1–3    Brondby                   (SEM)   0–3   1–0

Series B Champions' Cup - Third Preliminary Round

(JSY)              SK Fjordalen    4–5    Fevelo Colony             (COS)   3–1   1–4

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 1

Pelethas United 1–2 FC Kaldukosic
Alotic 35' | Teika 21', Bengochea 72'

Klyde 2–4 Treftadaeth Alliance
Hollifield 2', O. Gandhi 41' | Miller 16', Robitaille 21', Almeida 90', Mäntysaari 90+3'

Keenan Athletic 2–1 Olask Islanders
Sade 45+1', Cutnine 89' | Scafidis 47'

OAS Royal FC 3–3 Ramusok United
Kahara 40', Coffey 42', Koclanes 61' | Wedderburn 7', Arrowsmith 10', Wheeler 71'

Mallox 0–0 Cassandra City

Goldstaff City 1–4 Crawford City FC
Jones 25' | Belladonna 10', Kárpáty 12', Farrow 18', Kárpáty 89'

Samaj FC 1–0 Fevelo Colony
Jurevicius 21'

Eastweald 3–2 FC Samotath
Bambic 10', Fanaiyan 45', de Marisco 62' | Silanii 2', Silvestri 14'

Real Azuris 3–3 AC Holmenkollen
Arrowsword 11', Sigurjonsdottir 79', Benedict 90+5' | Jameson 8', Borbély 27', Stilic 63'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: The Major Ramusok Derby opens the season with fireworks in seesaw 3-3 draw at Crowley Memorial, Alexander Kárpáty gets a head start in the Golden Boot race in his Crawford City FC debut, and AC Holmenkollen nearly mark their return to the HL with a head-turning victory in Azuris... only to be denied at the last kick by a stunning 20-yard volley from Jeremy Benedict.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 2

FC Kaldukosic 0–0 AC Holmenkollen

FC Samotath 4–4 Real Azuris
Silvestri 15', Kolitsidakis 18', Exarchopolous 56', Silvestri 61' | Sigurjonsdottir 10', Arrowsword 20', Benedict 30', Sigurjonsdottir 49'

Fevelo Colony 1–3 Eastweald
Ferdinand 27' | V. Ilya 4', Mordini 64', Bond 90+3'

Crawford City FC 2–2 Samaj FC
Coultan 3', Mosquera 32' | Jurevicius 6', 84'

Cassandra City 2–2 Goldstaff City
de Sájajo 89', 90+6' | Bannion 22', Otohime 56'

Ramusok United 3–0 Mallox
Arrowsmith 46' 73', Winterseer 88'

Olask Islanders 1–2 OAS Royal FC
Scafidis 35' | Kahara 58', Marsteller 90+1'

Treftadaeth Alliance 1–4 Keenan Athletic
Miller 1' | Spisic 22' 66', Lewitzki 69', Sade 78'

Pelethas United 2–1 Klyde
Miettinen 55', Saltorius 76' | Fierro 90+5'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Some notable comeback performances in Week 2. Like FC Samotath drawing upon a rockin' Alesund Stadion to storm back from 4-2 down to tie Real Azuris, Gitonga Kahara and Sen Marsteller combining for two great second half goals on Olask Isle (Zoe who?), and Cassandra City's incredible turnaround from 2-0 down in stoppage time to salvage a point (though Lojes de Sájajo definitely dived to get the penalty for that second goal). Eastweald make the first offworld away trip of the season and largely control things at Fevelo Colony, Jagoda Kovačević teeing up a tap-in debut goal in gold for $32 million man Brian Bond to seal things at 3-1 in stoppage time. Some of the transfer window's headlining imports, like Bond and Ramusok United striker Winston Arrowsmith (earning chants from the crowd after a brace to see off Mallox), have taken to their new teams right away! Others, like CCFC's Chimera Moxham, look to be more of a work-in-progress. Moxham came off the bench this week against Samaj with Schottic legend Kim Coultan earning the starting nod from Amethyst Fegelein, and missed an open look from 10 yards that could've been a glorious home winner.


Champions' Cup - Playoff Round, Leg 1
Crawford City FC 3-2 Starling (NPH)

Globe Cup - Playoff Round, Leg 1
Yánsè (LOT) 0-2 Real Azuris

Series B Champions' Cup - Playoff Round, Leg 1
North Spire HC (CRY) 1-2 Fevelo Colony
AC Holmenkollen 0-3 Politehnica Pecineaga (PDN)

Mostly a very strong midweek for Cosumar's teams, though Holmenkollen buckling at home to Pridnestrovian opposition is a bit of a head-scratcher. The highlight is obviously Fegelein's triumph over her former club Starling thanks to a terrific performance from Chimera Moxham, though the two away goals conceded mean the tie is still balanced on a razor's edge.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 3

Klyde 4–2 FC Kaldukosic
O. Gandhi 8', Wheeler 43', Hollifield 72', Butterworth 90' | Bengochea 3', Nisa 38'

Keenan Athletic 1–5 Pelethas United
Sade 24' | Alotic 63' 65' 82', Aspenwood 84', Cyn-Penzag 87'

OAS Royal FC 6–2 Treftadaeth Alliance
Marsteller 26', Coffey 37', Marchant 45', Møller 78', Marsteller 85', Møller 88' | Robitaille 13' 52'

Mallox 2–3 Olask Islanders
Vu'Zago 70', Cheong 79' | Scafidis 13', Way 36', Scougall 40'

Goldstaff City 2–4 Ramusok United
Özturk 18', Na'Akeh 90' | Wheeler 13' 72' 90+2', Jago 90+5'

Samaj FC 3–6 Cassandra City
Erakin 21', Fitzstephens 34' 84' | de Sájajo 10' 31', Jabelon 43', Dyer Vry 50' 70', Zeale-Riddick 90+4'

Eastweald 2–0 Crawford City FC
Tali'raia 11', Bambic 33'

Real Azuris 3–1 Fevelo Colony
Yucob 7' 49', Olonniquin 73' | Ardanova 47'

AC Holmenkollen 0–0 FC Samotath

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Lots of eyes on Eastweald-Crawford City FC, two teams with high-profile Nepharim managers and genuine title expectations. Theresa Riether's decision to hand striker Tali'raia the start proves to be a shrewd one, as the dryad glides onto a deflected through ball from Somuele der Pros and nestles the opener into the far side-netting in the 11th minute. With the lead, Eastweald are able to pass CCFC into submission, maintaining possession to suffocate the match. It's a major boost for Eastweald's confidence as they look to bounce back from last season's disappointment. Things aren't so great on the other side of the Weald though. Mallox are winless, and still goalless from their starters. The Tigers didn't open their account for the season until they were already 3-0 down at home to Olask this week, at which point a livid Kennedy Kopenhaver yanked stars Riordan and Siorrha'Asione for youth players... who both proceeded to bag debut goals. It made things interesting, but it wasn't enough. How about Chrysanthe Scafidis though? For all the talk of Fion Tzyzakoos taking over up top for the Islanders, the veteran Nepharim has refused to relinquish her place, with a goal in all three games thus far. Potentially more newsworthy for the rest of the league, though, is that hugely talented strikers Thor Møller and Vega Zeale-Riddick both finally got off the mark this season for OAS Royal and Cassandra City after ineffectual starts. Both teams produced six goals, underscoring the importance of their centerpiece forwards to their overall attacks. Somewhat overshadowed, strong-starting UICA hopefuls Pelethas and Ramusok United also won big, Charlie Alotic and Corby Wheeler producing the first HL hat tricks this season.



Champions' Cup - Playoff Round, Leg 2
Starling 3-2 Crawford City FC
Crawford City FC advance 5-5 on aggregate, 4-3 on penalties

Globe Cup - Playoff Round, Leg 2
Real Azuris 0-0 Yánsè
Real Azuris advance 2-0 on aggregate

Series B Champions' Cup - Playoff Round, Leg 2
Fevelo Colony 4-0 North Spire HC
Fevelo Colony advance 6-1 on aggregate

Politehnica Pecineaga 0-0 AC Holmenkollen
AC Holmenkollen eliminated 3-0 on aggregate

Hansi Weschler steals the show in Nephara, coming up with four massive saves to deny a rampant Starling their come-from-behind aggregate victory in regular time. He plays hero again in the eventual penalty shootout, making two diving fingertip stops to put Crawford City FC in the Champions' Cup. Meanwhile, on Fevelo, the crystal ponies from North Spire HC are visibly unsettled by the subterranean environment (and perhaps a little sick from what was the first taste of space travel for many of them). You almost feel bad for them in the 4-0 rout that could've been a lot worse if not for a merciful Paaron Petrov. Holmenkollen barely attempt a miracle in Pridnestrovia, content to exit the "just not worth it" (-Curtis Theberge) SBCC and focus on staying in the HL.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 4

FC Kaldukosic 1–2 FC Samotath
Teika 41' | Nyström 44' 85'

Fevelo Colony 0–1 AC Holmenkollen
Jameson 22'

Crawford City FC 3–1 Real Azuris
Valfar 42', Moxham 45+1', Klein 50' | Biondi 83'

Cassandra City 0–1 Eastweald
Bond 37'

Ramusok United 0–1 Samaj FC
Møller 17'

Olask Islanders 1–0 Goldstaff City
DeKlan 29'

Treftadaeth Alliance 1–2 Mallox
Robitaille 65' | Riordan 4' 24'

Pelethas United 2–4 OAS Royal FC
Bourillion 45+2', Aspenwood 71' | Duvernay 11', Hanger 21', Møller 66', Marsteller 90+1'

Klyde 4–4 Keenan Athletic
Turner 14', Hollifield 25', Abbasi-Fevison 34', Doyle 40' | Spisic 20' 49', Arieli 52', Cirvante 54'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Corey Simmons Jr. goes with the kids on Saturday morning at a sunny Klyde Sportsplex, and the results are astonishing. They sparkle in the first half. Klyde have pinned their present and future on 19-year-old striker Cathal Turner, and he relieved some pressure with his first of the season - a thumping header from fellow homegrown Kvalderkorr. Fellow teenagers Mylon Doyle and Henry Hollifield would also pile on goals in the opening frame, their combination play a sight to behold. With his third goal and second assist already, 17-year-old creative midfielder Hollifield might just be displacing the well-established Pasargan, Fierro, before our eyes! But then... the typical lumps you often get with young players came in the second half as their attention waned. With Matilda Heisenberg shouting encouragements from the sideline, Keenan Athletic were able to storm back from 4-1 down in the span of six minutes. Down in Pelethas, OAS Royal are prolific going forward again, fast and razor-sharp with their runs, but it's mostly dull action elsewhere this week. Eastweald's shutout up at The Amphitheatre is highly significant, however. Hopkins and Mercator have already visibly improved the Elves' defense. As is Moxham's debut goal via a free kick in front of the CCFC supporters' wall, and under-fire Samaj's unexpected win at (formerly) red-hot Ramusok United.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 5

Keenan Athletic 0–2 FC Kaldukosic
Ekeh 24', 77'

OAS Royal FC 2–4 Klyde
Coffey 16', Koclanes 25' | Mal 2', Gandhi 8', Antoniou 22', Gandhi 50'

Mallox 3–1 Pelethas United
Riordan 12' 44', Dé 48' | Said 45+3'

Goldstaff City 2–3 Treftadaeth Alliance
Jelic 4', Toivonen 54' | Miller 15', Robitaille 38', Miller 90'

Samaj FC 0–1 Olask Islanders
Methüzema 45'

Eastweald 4–1 Ramusok United
Bond 17', Haalogalsson 34', Kovačević 48', Bond 66' | Arrowsmith 14'

Real Azuris 2–1 Cassandra City
Sigurjonsdottir 3', Bi. Tidesson 67' | Zeale-Riddick 49'

AC Holmenkollen 4–6 Crawford City FC
Jaeger 15', Riprov 20' 22', Grandstaber 86' | Kárpáty 27', Arrowsword 42', Alcouin 48', Arrowsword 61', Moxham 73', Coultan 84'

FC Samotath 4–4 Fevelo Colony
Navarro 8', Exarchopolous 53' 76', Navarro 85' | Kocsis 5', Morbrand 19', Keldian 22', Ferdinand 34'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Brian Bond is very good at football and Eastweald is a very good team. That is all. In other news, Drawkish CCFC defender Sarah Arrowsword is very very tall, and being very very tall helps on set-pieces against svelte young teams like Holmenkollen. You learned something from the HL today. You're welcome.



Globe Cup - Qualification Round, Leg 1
Real Azuris 1-1 FC Teussen Stelburg (STL)

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 6

FC Kaldukosic 4–1 Fevelo Colony
Bengochea 16', Helbro 22', Bengochea 30', Teika 60' | Odóma 71'

Crawford City FC 2–1 FC Samotath
Martell 33', Kárpáty 56' | Silanii 3'

Cassandra City 1–0 AC Holmenkollen
Zeale-Riddick 47'

Ramusok United 1–5 Real Azuris
Arrowsmith 63' | Sigurjonsdottir 21', Haidt 35', Benedict 45+2', Sigurjonsdottir 61', Benedict 72'

Olask Islanders 2–2 Eastweald
Scafidis 38', Brown 62' | Kovačević 42', Fanaiyan 72'

Treftadaeth Alliance 0–2 Samaj FC
Fitzstephens 11', Totorikagoena 40'

Pelethas United 2–2 Goldstaff City
Xandreas 2', Alotic 5' | Jelic 70', Özturk 85'

Klyde 1–2 Mallox
Hollifield 89' | Chappelle 77', Riordan 79'

Keenan Athletic 1–2 OAS Royal FC
Sade 14' | Marchant 26', Sheriff 90'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Cassandra City still not looking like the same indomitable team that cruised to the points record last season. Vega Zeale-Riddick has been less than her usual clinical self, and the midfielders have seemed sluggish - a step late to every ball. But this 1-0 result over Holmenkollen might kickstart things. VZR getting on the scoresheet in consecutive matches can only be a good thing, and Serafino and Rowan look resurgent. Back in the capital, Ram U took a second consecutive lashing, this time at home from Real Azuris. After such a positive start to the season by the Blues, this utter defensive meltdown over 180 minutes has been shocking. Fullbacks Sutton and Topić were shredded inside and out by the Azurian wingers today, especially Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir, who looks to be in the form of her life in the Azurian wave-sash. Most shocking, however, have been the howlers by veteran goalkeeper Lilly Kearney. If she's not careful, she'll give octogenarian Jock Sonny an actual heart attack. Syl Denhardt's rival youth-fueled project at the heart of the capital, on the other hand, got a nice piece of proof-of-concept, blue-chip teenage youth international Harlan Sheriff coming off the bench to score a 90th minute winner in frigid Keenan as his first senior goal. Nice composed finish after a late run in the box past Lethe Cirvante to clean up Sen Marsteller's blocked shot. Tough result for Keenan Athletic, but both they and OAS showed plenty of promising stuff.



Globe Cup - Qualification Round, Leg 2
FC Teussen Stelburg (STL) 1-3 Real Azuris
Real Azuris advance 4-2 on aggregate

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 7

OAS Royal FC 0–0 FC Kaldukosic

Mallox 2–1 Keenan Athletic
Siorrha'Asione 17' 63' | Spisic 54'

Goldstaff City 1–1 Klyde
Bannion 80' | Fierro 45'

Samaj FC 0–2 Pelethas United
Aspenwood 77', 81'

Eastweald 1–1 Treftadaeth Alliance
Tali'raia 63' | Miller 55'

Real Azuris 3–4 Olask Islanders
Benedict 12', Chisenhall 80', Benedict 82' | Scafidis 1' 4', Irwin 7', Tamburelli 15'

AC Holmenkollen 1–2 Ramusok United
Kolomainen 24' | Djanetic 5', Sutton 66'

FC Samotath 3–3 Cassandra City
Exarchopolous 53', Navarro 71', Nyström 88' | Schneiderlin 2', Frostmarris 5', Zeale-Riddick 90+3'

Fevelo Colony 3–5 Crawford City FC
Odóma 21', Morbrand 78', Kemény 79' | Alcouin 18', Coultan 41', Martell 50', Kárpáty 55', Alcouin 58'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Ramusok United go 15 minutes up the road to AC Holmenkollen and use the Minor Ramusok Derby as a chance to rebound, disrupting the Cedars' flowy play with sheer doggedness and physicality for all 90 minutes. This led to some testy moments (seven yellow cards). All three goals were controversial in some way as well. But it was nice to see the two polar-opposite managers remain respectful post-match. In his presser, Curtis Théberge practically worshipped the winner Jock Sonny, more than double his age, for building such a fierce mental toughness at United, and the Schottic legend in turn praised the young managerial career of Théberge, more than 40 years his junior. No such niceties from Luis Varezzi after Real Azuris are overwhelmed out the gates at home by a hungry Olask Islanders side, Scafidis amusingly continuing the best start to a season of her HL career. "To be blunt, I've never seen a more disgraceful fifteen minutes of football in my life," he said of the opening 15 in which the Breakers were stunned by four Olask goals. "I want to know which referee Collette [Sade] blew to allow Scafidis' goals to stand after she clearly shoved off Kurt [Wolff]." The usually-reserved Varezzi is suspended next match for his comments. Finally, early leaders Eastweald were held to a draw by a surprisingly stout-looking Treftadaeth Alliance side, allowing Crawford City FC to close most of the gap via some vintage Coultan-Alcouin showboating.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 8

FC Kaldukosic 1–1 Crawford City FC
Bengochea 44' | Danko 6'

Cassandra City 4–0 Fevelo Colony
Meier 27', Zeale-Riddick 29', Sonar Amethyst 35', Mace 75'

Ramusok United 3–2 FC Samotath
Wheeler 25', Duvalier 60', Sparrow Body 77' | Navarro 31', Nyström 33'

Olask Islanders 2–2 AC Holmenkollen
Tzyzakoos 24', 66' | Riprov 21', 45+2'

Treftadaeth Alliance 0–1 Real Azuris
Sigurjonsdottir 78'

Pelethas United 2–2 Eastweald
Miettinen 4', Aspenwood 6' | Fanaiyan 49', Kovačević 81'

Klyde 1–2 Samaj FC
Turner 67' | Fitzstephens 6', 26'

Keenan Athletic 3–1 Goldstaff City
Spisic 74', Sade 79', Flare Eclipse 90' | Bannion 76'

OAS Royal FC 0–0 Mallox

TOP BOTTOM TAKEAWAYS: Fevelo Colony are absolutely helpless. Especially in the back. Again. I don't think there's a single defender in their squad who's up to snuff against above-average HL attacks. Let alone Cassandra City, who field a heavily-rotated side and cruise, with both Scheherazade Meier and Sonar Amethyst scoring their first goals at The Ampitheatre. Fevelo Colony have some real footballers in their midfield, but you're not going to win many points with no one in behind and a toothless forward line. Hence why they only have one point. At risk of being cut adrift with the Cavedwellers at the bottom are Goldstaff City. The black-and-yellow hoops aren't AS visibly out of their depth as Colony, but could be in just as much trouble. Cade Jones has, thus far, been a $10m bust, and the players around him aren't doing many favors with their service either. At least Aelfwynn Bannion has been able to fashion some goals out of nothing for them. Like this week at Keenan Athletic, sprawling across Jake Malleom's feet to earn a penalty. But her theatrics weren't enough for Goldstaff to finally get their first win. Elodie Sade had too many tricks up her sleeve for their stiff central defense.




Eastweald undefeated at the top. The defense has looked much-improved from last year, and one gets the sense that their attack still has another level it can reach too. Early returns on the new Bond-Jagoda-Fanaiyan frontline have been promising.

Biggest Overachievers: Olask Islanders.
Biggest Underachievers: FC Samotath.

1015 Härlighet Ligan     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Eastweald               8    5   3   0    18    9   +9    18
 2  Crawford City FC        8    5   2   1    23   15   +8    17
 3  OAS Royal FC            8    4   3   1    19   13   +6    15
 4  Real Azuris             8    4   2   2    22   17   +5    14
 5  Olask Islanders         8    4   2   2    15   13   +2    14
 6  Mallox                  8    4   2   2    11   10   +1    14
 7  Ramusok United          8    4   1   3    17   18   −1    13
 8  Samaj FC                8    4   1   3    11   12   −1    13
 9  Cassandra City          8    3   3   2    17   11   +6    12
10  FC Kaldukosic           8    3   3   2    12    9   +3    12
11  Pelethas United         8    3   2   3    17   15   +2    11
12  Keenan Athletic         8    3   1   4    16   18   −2    10
13  Klyde                   8    2   2   4    18   19   −1     8
14  FC Samotath             8    1   4   3    18   20   −2     7
15  AC Holmenkollen         8    1   4   3    11   14   −3     7
16  Treftadaeth Alliance    8    2   1   5    12   20   −8     7
17  Goldstaff City          8    0   3   5    11   20   −9     3
18  Fevelo Colony           8    0   1   7    10   25  −15     1

Golden Boot Leader: 
  Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir (7)

1015 Sekundar Ligan      Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Ziemelu Skaida             8    7   1   0    14    6   +8    22
 2 Stoneshore United          8    6   0   2    12    4   +8    18
 3 Zakhoro Aces               8    4   2   2    19   13   +6    14
 4 Morponte Fief              8    4   2   2    13   10   +3    14
 5 West Gundar                8    4   2   2    13   12   +1    14
 6 Gwynt Tywyll               8    3   4   1     7    3   +4    13
 7 Na'Ilee Mariners           8    3   3   2    12    8   +4    12
 8 Centus Serpents            8    3   3   2     5    4   +1    12
 9 Helfin Fief                8    3   2   3    13   12   +1    11
10 Revanigruud Riversharks    8    3   1   4    12   14   −2    10
11 IFK Aldenskoett            8    2   3   3    13   12   +1     9
12 FC Flen                    8    2   2   4    19   21   −2     8
13 Regalia City               8    1   4   3    18   18    0     7
14 Versiaville                8    1   4   3    14   18   −4     7
15 IFK Sundsvall              8    2   1   5     9   20  −11     7
16 Nomad Brotherhood FC       8    1   3   4    12   16   −4     6
17 Sontäfe City               8    1   3   4     9   15   −6     6
18 Pristine Forest            8    1   2   5     9   17   −8     5

1015 Tredje Ligan       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 AFC Obscura 98           10    5   3   2    17   10   +7    18
 2 Fort Archer FC           10    6   0   4    24   19   +5    18
 3 Otkins Numenvernia       10    5   3   2    30   28   +2    18
 4 Seryddwyr Aberaeron      10    5   2   3    24   20   +4    17
 5 Klyde Heritage FC        10    5   2   3     8    8    0    17
 6 Bergtatt Isle Athletic   10    4   4   2    16   12   +4    16
 7 Cassandra Cosmopolitan   10    3   6   1    19   15   +4    15
 8 Rexnor District 3        10    4   3   3    16   12   +4    15
 9 Caledon Legion           10    4   3   3    18   17   +1    15
10 Pardock Island           10    4   2   4    11   17   −6    14
11 SC Torpedo Kejsarkona    10    3   4   3    18   17   +1    13
12 Riverside Crew           10    3   4   3    17   17    0    13
13 Sindo Fief               10    3   4   3    11   12   −1    13
14 Atletisk Surpronuk       10    4   0   6    18   18    0    12
15 Portsmouth FC            10    3   3   4    14   14    0    12
16 Nuur Origins FC          10    3   3   4     9   10   −1    12
17 Everlong FC              10    4   0   6    15   17   −2    12
18 AC Sepultura             10    2   5   3    22   24   −2    11
19 Rexnor District 5        10    3   2   5    23   26   −3    11
20 White Tower FC           10    2   4   4    20   23   −3    10
21 Azure Lane FC            10    2   3   5    18   26   −8     9
22 West Devellin            10    1   4   5    17   23   −6     7

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The King's Cup is the FSF's primary cup tournament. The Final, always played in Ramusok's royal district, is the last match of each domestic calendar. The cup, which has the names of all previous holders engraved into it, is presented to the winner by King James himself. The 256 clubs in Cosumar's top five tiers take part, all entering together in a randomized first round draw.

Division represented in parenthesis.
H = Härlighet Ligan (1st tier)
S = Sekundar Ligan (2nd tier)
T = Tredje Ligan (3rd tier)
L1 = Lägre Ligen 1 (4th tier conferences)
L2 = Lägre Ligen 2 (5th tier regional divisions)
Major upsets, high-profile fixtures and/or derbies are bolded.


First Round

Satyricon Nemesies AFC (L2) 0–1 Samaj FC (H)
FC Kaldukosic (H) 5–1 Mallox (H)
Rhodes Ravens AFC (L1) 1–3 Bergtatt Island Athletic (T)
Varvonti Firestorm (L2) 0–0 Goldstaff City (H) (0–1 AET)
Keldin Town (L2) 0–1 Sporting Pirankoper (L2)
Eastweald (H) 6–3 IFK Sundsvall (S)
Moggington County (L2) 0–1 SC Swamport (L2)
East Ellum (L2) 1–1 Rhupenhoven Town (L2) (2–2 AET) (3–2 pen.)
Braumhill (L2) 1–0 AC Sepultura (T)
Inter Juta (L2) 0–0 Carnessa County (L2) (1–0 AET)
Pristine Forest (S) 4–1 Chesterton Cottagers (L2)
Hamlack Town (L2) 1–0 Menoptera United (L2)
Klovstad Klub (L2) 0–0 Olympique Sur Mer (L2) (2–0 AET)
AC Holmenkollen (H) 2–0 Wilmontsbloom Blue Star (L2)
Kreanoltha Vipers (L2) 1–3 Yambridge City (L1)
Sammet Ridge (L1) 1–2 Hagenheim South End (L1)
Somberlain FC (L2) 1–2 Cassandra City II (L1)
Oxbow Lake (L2) 1–1 Villa Forsetti (L2) (1–2 AET)
Versiaville (S) 4–1 Ombra Castle (L2)
High Noon FC (L1) 2–2 Scarborough (L2) (2–2 AET) (2–3 pen.)
East Devellin (L1) 0–0 Dawchire Town (L1) (1–1 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Levithia Shrievenzale (L1) 0–0 Fort Archer FC (T) (0–0 AET) (5–3 pen.)
Treftadaeth Alliance (H) 3–0 Gorgoroth (L2)
Klyde City (L1) 0–1 Tamiat Town (L1)
Sontäfe City (S) 1–0 Rhithlungwerddon Town (L1)
Exxeco Station (L2) 0–1 Cadonica United (L2)
Fevelo Colony (H) 1–0 FC Fejd (L2)
Goldstaff Athletic (L2) 2–3 Emerald Cove (L1)
Rexnor District 6 (L2) 2–0 Dockery Union (L2)
Ciems Mungonduvia (L2) 6–3 Chamomile Town (L2)
West Devellin (T) 2–0 Club Varden (L2)
Pelethas United (H) 3–0 Coppell City FC (L2)
Miklagaard Salvation (L2) 0–0 Hvalsey 08 (L1) (1–2 AET)
Volmachtia Kaldukosic (L1) 0–1 Usk Town (L2)
Gamlasir (L2) 1–0 Interstellar Erurok (L1)
Orias-Kvissle SC (L2) 2–1 Sadenia Paladins (L1)
East Gundar (L2) 1–0 Svart-Guld Klingaställe (L2)
Ardamirchan Isle United (L2) 0–1 Klyde Heritage FC (T)
Tranquility Treepolis (L2) 1–1 Rexnor District 2 (L2) (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.)
FC Samotath (H) 4–2 Buscari Bridge Force (L2)
IFK Karlsborg (L2) 0–3 Forest Hill FC (L1)
Alstagruuket Sarlaccs FC (L2) 2–1 FC Invierness 912 (L2)
Sporting Corrian (L2) 2–3 FC Kviststad (L2)
Atletisk Kvelertak (L2) 1–2 United FC of Stoneshore (L2)
Mintwick Marmots (L2) 1–1 Impera Town (L2) (3–1 AET)
Atlético Oterro (L1) 4–3 Taigaenplats (L2)
FC Flen (S) 2–0 Woods of Ypres (L1)
Hassaburess Athletic (L2) 4–0 Gamma City Zakhoro (L1)
Crawford City FC II (L2) 1–0 OAS Royal FC II (L2)
Sólstafir (L2) 0–2 Kalloroda United (L1)
FC1. Richtofen Avalanche (L2) 0–1 Caledon Legion (T)
OAS Royal FC (H) 1–0 Otkins Numenvernia (T)
Gwynt Tywyll (S) 1–1 Östrad Rockets FC (L2) (2–2 AET) (6–5 pen.)
Real Bellavista (L1) 0–1 Falco Na'Diveh (L1)
Sporting Culmar (L1) 1–1 Rexnor District 7 (L2) (2–1 AET)
Interstellar Östrad (L2) 0–2 Cape Dutch Copperheads (L2)
Lykathea City (L2) 2–1 Theli City (L2)
Harlegan Rovers (L2) 0–5 Sindo Fief (T)
VfL Läutenstadt (L2) 0–1 Riverside Crew (T)
FC Va'Lubasa (L2) 3–2 Thergothon Town (L2)
Larkinham Town (L1) 3–0 New Hagenheim Canopy (L2)
Real Azuris (H) 4–0 Zirconim City (L2)
Klyde II (L2) 0–0 Glasbon SC (L2) (0–0 AET) (2–3 pen.)
Revanigruud Riversharks (S) 2–0 Briquia Southside (L2)
Highlanders (L1) 3–0 Tonsei Tumult (L2)
Baymar Lagune (L2) 3–3 Drummond's FC (L2) (4–3 AET)
Orion Wanderers (L2) 0–1 Scarromere FC (L2)
Dvinko Black Heart (L1) 0–0 FC Kaldukosic II (L2) (0–0 AET) (4–3 pen.)
IFK Keukenhok (L2) 1–4 Azure Lane FC (T)
Everlong FC (T) 1–0 Rexnor District 4 (L2)
Wiedna Town (L1) 0–0 Esterhollow Harbor (L1) (0–0 AET) (0–3 pen.)
Ajatarra Alligators (L2) 3–2 Heofoncandel Uré (L2)
FK Pentagram Pjattervid (L2) 0–3 Noths Castle (L2)
Ingleton Town (L2) 1–0 Tromsdale Town (L2)
SC Torpedo Kejsarkona (T) 3–0 Yellow Meadow Lynwood (L2)
Gnoss Gallants AFC (L1) 0–4 Nuur Origins FC (T)
Paulsendam Town (L2) 0–2 Crawford Sharks SC (L1)
Murkwaamp Suns FC (L2) 1–0 Austentrapp City FC (L2)
Talmusok City (L1) 2–1 Real Azuris II (L2)
FC Stellendam (L2) 1–1 Gladsax Chariot FC (L2) (1–2 AET)
AFC Centus (L2) 0–2 Gwerin Athletic (L2)
AFC Wernersburg (L2) 0–2 FC Dynamo Kurbads (L2)
Attumac Wanderers (L2) 1–0 FC Kastanjestad (L2)
Duval Town (L2) 3–1 Malm Town (L2)
Ayr Athletic (L2) 1–1 Centus Serpents (S) (2–2 AET) (2–4 pen.)
SEP Bjärnum (L2) 2–0 Rexnor District 9 (L2)
West Ellum (L2) 1–3 Silk FC (L1)
FC Arkadius (L2) 3–0 CD Panteras Nueces (L1)
Atletisk Östrad (L2) 2–2 Borzac Sequins (L2) (2–2 AET) (0–3 pen.)
Piander Falls FC (L2) 1–2 Rexnor District 5 (T)
Nabataea (L2) 0–1 Oppland 806 (L2)
Helfin Fief (S) 2–1 AFC Obscura 98 (T)
Drahva United (L2) 2–2 Flithby Town (L2) (2–2 AET) (4–5 pen.)
Ramusok United (H) 2–0 AC Opjenheim (L1)
Ziemelu Skaida (S) 3–0 Goldsoul FC (L2)
Tierra Interstellar Wanderers (L1) 3–1 Noumen Town (L2)
Marinus City (L2) 1–1 Black Diamond Osterhaut (L1) (2–1 AET)
Club Toftir (L1) 0–0 Jotungard 99 FC (L2) (1–0 AET)
Cerulia City FC (L2) 2–2 Na'Ilee Mariners (S) (2–3 AET)
Eastweald II (L2) 2–1 Whitestone Athletic (L2)
Rexnor District 3 (T) 5–0 IFK Nordön (L2)
Rexnor District 8 (L2) 1–0 FC Na'Travii (L2)
Red Star Karbosic (L2) 1–4 Crawford City FC (H)
Tornline (L1) 0–0 Morponte Fief II (L2) (0–0 AET) (3–1 pen.)
Erpland County (L2) 2–3 Nomad Brotherhood (S)
Ramusok United II (L2) 0–0 Gibwir Marsnal (L2) (0–0 AET) (2–3 pen.)
West Gundar (S) 0–2 Regalia City (S)
Seryddwyr Aberaeron (T) 1–0 Morponte Fief (S)
Marshall-Blue FC (L2) 5–4 Snaigow Hoarfrost (L2)
Lindsborg Premier (L2) 0–1 Romstafar Outpost (L2)
Cassandra Cosmopolitan (T) 0–2 White Tower FC (T)
Grayslake (L2) 5–0 Moore Hill Pirates (L2)
Pardock Island (T) 2–1 Sporting Club Macofor (L2)
Brayllor Town (L1) 0–3 Olask Islanders (H)
IFK Sokuldijak (L2) 3–3 Salfa City (L1) (4–3 AET)
Aläng FF (L1) 1–0 Meryuma Marshals (L1)
Templar-Lune FC (L2) 2–0 FC Samotath II (L2)
Portsmouth (T) 1–0 Keenan Athletic (H)
Treacherous Cove AFC (L1) 0–1 Columbia Town (L2)
Sarmon (L1) 1–3 Zakhoro Aces (S)
Novia Alliance (L2) 1–2 Aberaeron Celtic (L1)
Bayford City (L2) 0–2 Atletisk Surpronuk (T)
Stortrommeby Town (L2) 0–1 Yuonela Town (L2)
Cassandra City (H) 8–2 SC Cirith 01 (L2)
IFK Aldenskoett (S) 4–0 Nexus Magens FC (L2)
Mallox II (L2) 1–7 Klyde (H)
Dusk Athletic (L2) 0–0 Stoneshore United (S) (0–0 AET) (3–1 pen.)
Wealdheim Bards (L1) 0–1 1. FC Guggenheim (L2)

Second Round

Samaj FC (H) 0–0 FC Kaldukosic (H) (0–1 AET)
Bergtatt Island Athletic (T) 2–1 Goldstaff City (H)
Sporting Pirankoper (L2) 1–1 Eastweald (H) (1–5 AET)
SC Swamport (L2) 0–1 East Ellum (L2)
Braumhill (L2) 0–1 Inter Juta (L2)
Pristine Forest (S) 2–1 Hamlack Town (L2)
Klovstad Klub (L2) 1–7 AC Holmenkollen (H)
Yambridge City (L1) 0–2 Hagenheim South End (L1)
Cassandra City II (L1) 1–1 Villa Forsetti (L2) (1–1 AET) (0–3 pen.)
Versiaville (S) 1–2 Scarborough (L2)
Dawchire Town (L1) 2–0 Levithia Shrievenzale (L1)
Treftadaeth Alliance (H) 2–1 Tamiat Town (L1)
Sontäfe City (S) 2–0 Cadonica United (L2)
Fevelo Colony (H) 2–2 Emerald Cove (L1) (3–2 AET)
Rexnor District 6 (L2) 1–0 Ciems Mungonduvia (L2)
West Devellin (T) 0–1 Pelethas United (H)
Hvalsey 08 (L1) 3–0 Usk Town (L2)
Gamlasir (L2) 1–1 Orias-Kvissle SC (L2) (2–2 AET) (3–1 pen.)
East Gundar (L2) 1–1 Klyde Heritage FC (T) (2–2 AET) (6–5 pen.)
Tranquility Treepolis (L2) 1–7 FC Samotath (H)
Forest Hill FC (L1) 1–3 Alstagruuket Sarlaccs FC (L2)
FC Kviststad (L2) 1–1 United FC of Stoneshore (L2) (2–1 AET)
Mintwick Marmots (L2) 0–0 Atlético Oterro (L1) (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.)
FC Flen (S) 2–1 Hassaburess Athletic (L2)
Crawford City FC II (L2) 1–1 Kalloroda United (L1) (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Caledon Legion (T) 3–5 OAS Royal FC (H)
Gwynt Tywyll (S) 1–1 Falco Na'Diveh (L1) (1–1 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Sporting Culmar (L1) 1–1 Cape Dutch Copperheads (L2) (1–2 AET)
Lykathea City (L2) 3–4 Sindo Fief (T)
Riverside Crew (T) 4–0 FC Va'Lubasa (L2)
Larkinham Town (L1) 1–7 Real Azuris (H)
Glasbon SC (L2) 1–0 Revanigruud Riversharks (S)
Highlanders (L1) 4–1 Baymar Lagune (L2)
Scarromere FC (L2) 1–5 Dvinko Black Heart (L1)
Azure Lane FC (T) 1–3 Everlong FC (T)
Esterhollow Harbor (L1) 0–2 Ajatarra Alligators (L2)
Noths Castle (L2) 2–2 Ingleton Town (L2) (3–2 AET)
SC Torpedo Kejsarkona (T) 0–1 Nuur Origins FC (T)
Crawford Sharks SC (L1) 0–2 Murkwaamp Suns FC (L2)
Talmusok City (L1) 1–0 Gladsax Chariot FC (L2)
Gwerin Athletic (L2) 0–1 FC Dynamo Kurbads (L2)
Attumac Wanderers (L2) 3–0 Duval Town (L2)
Centus Serpents (S) 2–0 SEP Bjärnum (L2)
Silk FC (L1) 4–3 FC Arkadius (L2)
Borzac Sequins (L2) 0–0 Rexnor District 5 (T) (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Oppland 806 (L2) 0–3 Helfin Fief (S)
Flithby Town (L2) 1–5 Ramusok United (H)
Ziemelu Skaida (S) 2–0 Tierra Interstellar Wanderers (L1)
Marinus City (L2) 1–0 Club Toftir (L1)
Na'Ilee Mariners (S) 4–0 Eastweald II (L2)
Rexnor District 3 (T) 7–1 Rexnor District 8 (L2)
Crawford City FC (H) 4–1 Tornline (L1)
Nomad Brotherhood (S) 0–0 Gibwir Marsnal (L2) (1–0 AET)
Regalia City (S) 4–1 Seryddwyr Aberaeron (T)
Marshall-Blue FC (L2) 3–2 Romstafar Outpost (L2)
White Tower FC (T) 0–1 Grayslake (L2)
Pardock Island (T) 0–1 Olask Islanders (H)
IFK Sokuldijak (L2) 0–2 Aläng FF (L1)
Templar-Lune FC (L2) 2–5 Portsmouth (T)
Columbia Town (L2) 0–5 Zakhoro Aces (S)
Aberaeron Celtic (L1) 2–2 Atletisk Surpronuk (T) (2–3 AET)
Yuonela Town (L2) 1–4 Cassandra City (H)
IFK Aldenskoett (S) 4–0 Klyde (H)
Dusk Athletic (L2) 0–1 1. FC Guggenheim (L2)

[Cosumar]

Härlighet Ligan Matchday 9

Mallox 1–0 FC Kaldukosic
Siorrha'Asione 71'

Goldstaff City 2–1 OAS Royal FC
Özturk 9', Saulnesis 18' | Coffey 39'

Samaj FC 1–2 Keenan Athletic
Jakoljevic 74' | Spisic 3', Lewitzki 90'

Eastweald 1–1 Klyde
Bond 7' | Gandhi 35'

Real Azuris 2–1 Pelethas United
Sigurjonsdottir 33', Vanzanto 57' | Aspenwood 26'

AC Holmenkollen 0–0 Treftadaeth Alliance

FC Samotath 2–3 Olask Islanders
Navarro 43', Silvestri 56' | Tzyzakoos 28', Bourass 70', Scougall 87'

Fevelo Colony 0–2 Ramusok United
Arrowsmith 74', Luminesce 82'

Crawford City FC 2–3 Cassandra City
Alcouin 29', Modrich 45+1' | Dyer Vry 26' 66', Gargo 82'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: As the HL's resident pragmatist and disciplinarian Johannes Lundblade always lectures..."Set-pieces, set-pieces, set-pieces!" A dozen points this week are allocated based on the fact that one team was better than the other at them. Yep, four headed winners off corners. And Lundblade's Samaj FC wasn't even one of them, though the Hunters' lone goal WAS from a glancing Tomi Jakoljevic header off a Euan Fitzstephens (this kid has been good!) free kick. Instead, it's Hal Lewitzki for Keenan Athletic on a stoppage time corner to down the aforementioned Samaj at home, along with center backs Liesl Vanzanto, Francesca Scougall and Stephen Gargo for Real Azuris, Olask Islanders and Cassandra City. The most of important of the four was that last one. Topping Crawford City at Orangi Stadium should quiet some of the "Return of the Champions' Curse" talk around Cassandra. Charles Dyer Vry was excellent both in the build-up and finishing plays off. His case for a World Cup 82 Cosumar call-up grows alongside his importance to Arturo Mancini.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 10

FC Kaldukosic 1–1 Cassandra City
Bengochea 18' | Zeale-Riddick 58'

Ramusok United 0–2 Crawford City FC
Belladonna 12', Bloodblade 59'

Olask Islanders 4–2 Fevelo Colony
Parchot 3', Tzyzakoos 25', Irwin 47', Guinevere 78' | Odóma 19', Morbrand 90+4'

Treftadaeth Alliance 0–0 FC Samotath

Pelethas United 1–1 AC Holmenkollen
Aspenwood 48' | Jaeger 73'

Klyde 1–3 Real Azuris
Butterworth 77' | Antúnes 37', Benedict 59', Biondi 87'

Keenan Athletic 2–3 Eastweald
Spisic 48', Sade 57' | Bond 27', Townsend-Gregg 37', Mordini 75'

OAS Royal FC 1–0 Samaj FC
Marsteller 7'

Mallox 4–2 Goldstaff City
Riordan 53', Sjunitsson 62', Broxham 70', Riordan 90' | Jones 30', Na'Akeh 36'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: The buff woman waving the Brenecian flag in the thick of the Orange Palace supporters' wall must've been a good luck charm. Brenecians Griffin Riordan and Keziah Broxham both had monster performances in Mallox's comeback on Sunday afternoon, combining for three of the Tigers' four second-half goals and contributing lots of invaluable work off-the-ball. This was only Goldstaff, but Mallox are quietly looking good this year. Riordan is scoring goals, and although Taka Masatoshi doesn't yet have one to his name, he's making all the right decisions with the ball on their breaks. There's also a Klyde Isle Derby! Although Corey Simmons Jr.'s project isn't yet UICA-competitive, the Doves are capable of being a dangerous banana peel for anybody on their day, especially when the songs at The Klyde Sportsplex ring loud behind them. Real Azuris take care of business on the road though, proving their class by dominating possession amidst a tough environment and getting all ten outfield players involved in the attack. Klyde briefly made things interesting at 2-1 with substitute Peter Butterworth's 15-yard laser, but their southern neighbors would find a third to ice things less than then minutes later. At least North Klyde Fief can take solace in another few highlight-reel tricks and flicks by 17-year-old Henry Hollifield.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 11

Goldstaff City 0–0 FC Kaldukosic

Samaj FC 2–0 Mallox
Whitecastle 9', Fitzstephens 61'

Eastweald 5–2 OAS Royal FC
Mordini 13', Ilya 23', de Marisco 38', Kovačević 63', Haalogalsson 90+4' | Marsteller 16', Drover 84'

Real Azuris 2–1 Keenan Athletic
A. Tidesson 7', Antunović 43' | Lewitzki 67'

AC Holmenkollen 1–3 Klyde
Riprov 54' | Fierro 32', Abbasi-Fevison 51', Turner 81'

FC Samotath 3–4 Pelethas United
Guss 57', Kolitsidakis 68', Carolla 72' | Alotic 9', Aspenwood 13', Alotic 44', Greenchurch 89'

Fevelo Colony 0–1 Treftadaeth Alliance
Gates 36'

Crawford City FC 3–2 Olask Islanders
Martell 4', Moxham 59' 89' | Tzyzakoos 44' 78'

Cassandra City 0–1 Ramusok United
Wheeler 45+3'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Corby Wheeler has already enjoyed an impressive start to life in Cosumar's capital, but no performance hitherto will have endeared her more to the Ramusok United faithful than the one she gave today at The Amphitheatre - the very site of the Millennium Miracle that gave the boiling rivalry between United and Cassandra City its name. In addition to skipping the game's only goal over the outstretched arms of Calogero Metz at the end of a mazy run, Wheeler also sprinted all the way back and put in a last-ditch tackle to stop Vega Zeale-Riddick from having an open look on goal in the 90th minute. In a game where clear chances were difficult to come by, the impact of this play was seismic. In a much different type of game, FC Samotath thrilled their home fans with an aesthetically-pleasing comeback from 3-0 down to tie things at 3-3... only for Pelethas United to score their first goal since halftime in the 89th minute on an always-rising Hestia Greenchurch screamer. Samotathians will be *kinda* satisfied with the goals, but there's no being pleased with their position in the table. Once again, Samo have utterly failed to build upon last season's surprising UICA qualification or generate any sort of carryover winning momentum. Elsewhere, a menacing Eastweald puts OAS Royal to the sword at Old Weldenskirgen, Chimera Moxham rallies CCFC to prevent upstart Olask from surpassing them in the table, and dark horse Best XI candidates Preston Brotherford and Kai Poirier are immense shutting down Fevelo Colony for Alliance. A defensive midfielder in his playing days (AKA yesterday), Apple Jack must be pleased with how his side is competing at the back.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 12

FC Kaldukosic 2–3 Ramusok United
Woetekker 10', Bengochea 60' | Steelhenge 25', Wheeler 32', Stone 77'

Olask Islanders 3–2 Cassandra City
Kraljic 27', Tzyzakoos 43', Kraljic 51' | Dyer Vry 76', de Sájajo 80'

Treftadaeth Alliance 1–3 Crawford City FC
Brotherford 23' | Knych 9', Kárpáty 19', Alcouin 62'

Pelethas United 1–0 Fevelo Colony
Alotic 1'

Klyde 3–0 FC Samotath
Gandhi 14', Tarashaj 71', Kvalderkorr 84'

Keenan Athletic 1–1 AC Holmenkollen
Woodwind 40' | Rwang 73'

OAS Royal FC 3–3 Real Azuris
Coffey 21', Kahara 66', Simmons III 75' | Domino 39', A. Tidesson 83', Benedict 84'

Mallox 2–3 Eastweald
Masatoshi 27', Riordan 48' | Fanaiyan 24' 37', Tali'raia 75'

Goldstaff City 0–1 Samaj FC
Møller 77'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Theresa Riether's charges Go West Young Man and take the first 1015 Weald Classic from Mallox's cold, dead hands in the 75th minute. It was a scintillating back-and-forth affair featuring both splendid team goals and a Curler of the Season candidate off the outside of Ishtar Fanaiyan's boot from wide right, but dryad Tali'raia gave the Elves the last laugh. At this sight, Stiin Siorrha'Asione takes off his boots and chucks them as far into the stands as he can, with a hilarious pout on his face. He was only cautioned with a yellow, but Kopenhaver had no choice but to take him off anyways. Mallox didn't have any replacements Stiin's size on hand. Fevelo Colony STILL can't generate any offense despite Pelethas United going down to 10 and then 9 players. Connor Morbrand probably wished he was back in Natanians and Nosts after scuffing a penalty hilariously wide of the right post to draw jeering whistles from the Xanadu Dome crowd. Other must-see highlights from Week 12 include Adam Kraljic's TWO inch-perfect free kick goals to keep Olask Islanders flying high at the expense of the struggling champions and Real Azuris' quick double-slap of comeback goals to silence Crowley Memorial late. Lapses of concentration continue to plague OAS Royal despite positive performances, resulting in just one win from the last six and a warming seat for Syl Denhardt.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 13

Samaj FC 0–0 FC Kaldukosic

Eastweald 2–1 Goldstaff City
Bond 3', 71' | Jones 22'

Real Azuris 3–3 Mallox
Arrowsword 41', Sigurjonsdottir 43', Benedict 81' | Riordan 2', Engram 23', Masatoshi 55'

AC Holmenkollen 0–2 OAS Royal FC
Marsteller 28', Kahara 38'

FC Samotath 4–3 Keenan Athletic
Silanii 22', Silvestri 77' 82', Bermond 87' | Sade 32', Frederick 79', Spisic 88'

Fevelo Colony 2–1 Klyde
Morbrand 31', Solignac 52' | Tarashaj 28'

Crawford City FC 1–2 Pelethas United
Kárpáty 90+2' | Miettinen 5', Aspenwood 71'

Cassandra City 1–1 Treftadaeth Alliance
Zeale-Riddick 90+3' | Almeida 3'

Ramusok United 1–0 Olask Islanders
Bachelor 61'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Sound the heavenly horns! Fevelo Colony have won a match! At last! Klyde are the dogs of the day, their inexperience empowering some streetwise game-management by the colonials in the second half after they took the lead on Aurora Solignac's back-post finish. Fellow new-promoted side Treftadaeth Alliance also found themselves with a surprise lead - at The Amphitheatre - and defended for all their lives for the whole rest of the match. ......Only for Vega Zeale-Riddick to cruelly break their opposition with an equalizer deeeeep in stoppage time, clipped up into the roof of the net off-the-bounce. Elsewhere, OAS Royal become the second capital club to stroll into Cedar Park and breezily win a Minor Ramusok Derby this season, Holmenkollen creator Gabrielo Romo unable to find a way through Elsie Drover - always buzzing - in midfield. FC Samotath got some mojo back, emerging from a breathlessly frantic final fifteen minutes one goal ahead of Keenan Athletic, and Euran import Brian Bond continues to make the difference for Eastweald. His brilliant wing play is rivaled only by Sigurjonsdottir for Azuris this year.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 14

FC Kaldukosic 2–3 Olask Islanders
Grienblatt 65', Nisa 68' | Abylon 1', Scafidis 74', Tzyzakoos 86'

Treftadaeth Alliance 6–2 Ramusok United
Shakir 5', Tarmé 8', Almeida 27' 57', Miller 84', Mäntysaari 90+2' | Arrowsmith 10', Wheeler 24'

Pelethas United 4–3 Cassandra City
Miettinen 1', Xandreas 33', Alotic 40', Crowley 75' | Va'Afaja 42', Serafino 58', Dyer Vry 66'

Klyde 3–4 Crawford City FC
Kvalderkorr 50', Tarashaj 70', Kvalderkorr 89' | Kárpáty 40', Martell 53', Alcouin 58', Coultan 61'

Keenan Athletic 3–1 Fevelo Colony
Spisic 30', Byfuglien 47', Sade 72' | Odóma 76'

OAS Royal FC 3–2 FC Samotath
Sheriff 55', Marsteller 68', Koclanes 84' | Exarchopolous 47' 78'

Mallox 4–3 AC Holmenkollen
Siorrha'Asione 3', Bruyne 17', Riordan 39' 56' | Mirzayev 27', Stilic 54', Jameson 71'

Goldstaff City 1–2 Real Azuris
Sühnhold 5' | Sigurjonsdottir 44', Mormentor 78'

Samaj FC 2–5 Eastweald
Melmendier 74', Jakoljevic 84' | Bond 2', Fanaiyan 36', Kortuufa 43', Fanaiyan 64' 86'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Lots of goals this weekend but one result jumps off the page, and that's Ramusok United's 6-2 capitulation up at The Wormhole. Okay, the Ramusoki aren't used to playing in 9-degree Fahrenheit weather and a layer of snow. Okay, the somehow still-shirtless supporters at The Wormhole were somehow more loud and obnoxious than usual. Okay, Trefta have been more competitive than expected this season. But none of that can excuse shipping six goals when you're a team that lives by the mantra of competing. I guess it was just too cold for the "competitive fire" Jock Sonny often speaks of. He could do little but shake his thickly-bundled old head as 3-2 gradually deepened to 6-2 in the second half with each ball Jimmie Maloney lumped over his defenders' heads. Or maybe he was just violently shivering. Fellow Megalopolis bastion FC Kaldukosic have also had a hard time lately. They initially looked to have taken another step forward under Cillian Najdorf, rattling off some wins in the first month with a steady stream of goals from Inigo Bengochea and Antra Teika. Diversification in the attack! Just what they were missing last year! But ever since Kaujarre Nisa, their Attacking Option A, has been in-and-out of the 18 with persisting muscle cramps, the stream has dried up. The Victors have gone victory-less in eight matches and slipped back down to a dangerous area of the table. The team that came in and conquered them at Leviathan Arena, the Islanders, are trending the opposite direction with Fion "Krazy" Tzyzakoos having finally come alive in front of goal. She's really stepped up to compete with Scafidis, both strikers now in rollicking form - a dream for Collette Sade! Krazy and clean-cut, soft-spoken Jade Irwin are a hilarious contrast in their post-match double-interview, but they can agree on one thing: bringing UICA football to Olask Isle for the first time is now an attainable target. With young Maia Abylon the secret sauce in their midfield, anything looks possible. Elsewhere, it's just not fair as Ishtar Fanaiyan explodes past Ophelia Lovelock (a step slower than she used to be) over and over and bags an easy hat trick for Eastweald against Samaj. Lundblade pulls Lovelock for the more sprightly youngster Ballou Melmendier, and Fanaiyan just does the same to him too. Jeez. Other highlights include Crawford taliswoman Kim Coultan scoring a 4-3 winner with her first touch after coming on in North Klyde (a place she has always tormented), 18-year-old Harlan Sheriff impressing in his first start in midfield for OAS Royal, and the unquestioned Goal of the Week: a sequence of intricate Real Azuris passing capped off by Sigurjonsdottir. The Pasargan is on pace to top Bryger Tidesson's stats in every season except the one he won HL PoTY!




Champions' Cup - Group Stage

Group C                          Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts   CsC  RGS  SCP  Chg
1 Cassandra City            COS    6    6   0   0    14    4  +10    18    —   1–0  1–0  3–0
2 RGS Athletic              EFL    6    3   1   2     9    6   +3    10   2–3   —   2–0  2–0
3 Sonoma Center Panthers    COM    6    1   1   4     7   11   −4     4   2–3  1–1   —   3–2
4 Cherrygrove City          SAL    6    1   0   5     5   14   −9     3   0–3  1–2  2–1   —

Cassandra City have been looking awfully good in the Champions' Cup, turning back the clock to last year's form. 6-0-0. These efforts might help to explain their inconsistent league form. Their defense of The Amphitheatre with three clean sheets stands out, as do road wins in Eastfield Lodge and Commerce Heights. Their depth in the attack has been a boon for these fixtures.

Group F                          Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts   Csb  CrC  KpC  Dir
1 Crisisbless               NPH    6    5   0   1    14    6   +8    15    —   0–2  3–0  4–1
2 Crawford City FC          COS    6    3   1   2     9    6   +3    10   2–3   —   1–1  2–1
3 Keppal Cosmos             ZWZ    6    1   2   3     5    9   −4     5   0–1  0–2   —   2–0
4 Directus                  EUR    6    1   1   4     6   13   −7     4   1–3  1–0  2–2   —

CCFC haven't been quite as eye-catching as the Reds, but they're also in a much tougher group. They did well to advance over Directus. The win at Crisisbless was vital after after dropping the home leg 3-2. Alexander Kárpáty isn't scoring at the Golden Boot type of rate (yet) that some expected after his big switch from Mallox, but he's coming through in the big moments.


Globe Cup - Group Stage

Group C                          Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts   CzC  Smt  WCW  Nrk
1 Cazadores Cathair         AUD    6    3   2   1     7    5   +2    11    —   2–0  1–1  0–0
2 FC Samotath               COS    6    3   1   2     8    4   +4    10   3–0   —   3–1  0–0
3 West Cape Wanderers       BLA    6    1   3   2     4    7   −3     6   0–2  1–0   —   0–0
4 Newrook City              NPH    6    0   4   2     2    5   −3     4   1–2  0–2  1–1   —

FC Samotath are poor abroad, but they did what you need to do to advance from the group stage: defend home turf. The 3-0 win over Cazadores is one of the best results in their history, these foreign sides clearly not accustomed to the theatrics and attacking antics of the Black Hawks at Alesund Stadion. Dimitra Exarchopolous' goals carried them in Globe Cup play. Could they make a run despite their HL futility of late?

Group I                          Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts   VdA  RAz  Wex  Bel
1 Vidial Alchemists         MRN    6    3   2   1     9    4   +5    11    —   2–2  0–1  4–0
2 Real Azuris               COS    6    3   1   2    10    6   +4    10   1–2   —   2–0  3–1
3 Wexax United              VAL    6    2   1   3     2    5   −3     7   0–0  1–0   —   0–1
4 CF Belenenses             LUS    6    2   0   4     4   10   −6     6   0–1  0–2  2–0   —

Real Azuris advance with identical placement and record. With mostly youthful rotated sides, they were able to dogpile on CF Belenenses for a majority of their points (Birgid Tidesson just seemed to have their number), but really labored hard against the athletic Vidial Alchemists.


Series B Champions' Cup - Group Stage

Group D                          Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts   FvC  DVf  Mcd  PPc
1 Fevelo Colony             COS    6    5   1   0    14    4  +10    16    —   2–1  4–0  2–1
2 Defensores de Villafuerte VLD    6    2   2   2     8    9   −1     8   0–2   —   2–1  2–1
3 AS Marcadia               AUD    6    1   2   3     6   10   −4     5*  0–2  1–1   —   3–0
4 Politehnica Pecineaga     PDN    6    0   3   3     7   12   −5     3*  2–2  2–2  1–1   —

In another study of contrasting form, Fevelo Colony have been tearing up a strong SBCC group! Scoring boatloads of goals (we see you, Mr. Morbrand!) despite being unable to buy one in the league. They're really going for this. It has given Fevelian supporters something to cheer for, but has also led some to criticize Paaron Petrov for hampering Colony's already-bleak survival chances to chase a second-tier trophy.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 15

Eastweald 4–1 FC Kaldukosic
Fanaiyan 6', Kovačević 43', Fanaiyan 78', Del Angel 90+2' | Ekeh 67'

Real Azuris 3–1 Samaj FC
Antúnes 51', Arrowsword 54', Wolff 74' | Møller 71'

AC Holmenkollen 1–0 Goldstaff City
Jaeger 6'

FC Samotath 3–3 Mallox
Sommerfield 23', Silanii 24', Navarro 69' | Riordan 11', Emery 52', Vu'Zago 59'

Fevelo Colony 1–0 OAS Royal FC
Kent 34'

Crawford City FC 2–0 Keenan Athletic
Farrow 7', Moxham 56'

Cassandra City 3–2 Klyde
Dyer Vry 13', Rowan 24', de Sájajo 68' | Gandhi 9', 52'

Ramusok United 1–2 Pelethas United
Arrowsmith 89' | Alotic 35', Xandreas 90+1'

Olask Islanders 2–2 Treftadaeth Alliance
Scafidis 7', Way 82' | Miller 43', 58'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: The goddess Ishtar roars to life again for Eastweald, this time punishing experienced Kaldu left back Kristian Friedmann at home. With five goals in her last two matches, she has surged into a Golden Boot conversation that already featured her co-star Brian Bond. What has gone under the radar is Jagoda Kovačević's role in this. The young Pasargan has become one of the best center forwards in the league at hold-up and combination play. Imagine Eastweald if she starts scoring goals at an Ishtarian clip too! The green-and-gold have really established themselves as the title favorites as the midseason break approaches. Speaking of players that have been crucial but don't get a lot of the press, Real Azuris midfielder Hidalgo Antúnes is having a career year, quietly leading the assists column. He had another one (and a goal to go with it!) as Real Azuris took care of Samaj this weekend. The likes of Azuris and CCFC haven't been as flashy as Eastweald, but they continue to pick up results and stay within touching distance. By virtue of playing in Pelethas, another such player is Regatta Aspenwood. The Nepharim import from Schottia has been consistently excellent for the Miners, striking up a deadly link with Charlie Alotic and seemingly displacing a still-out-of-form Saltorius Splitt as their chief attacking maestro. She has 9 goals already and, after teeing up a dramatic late winner at Fire River Arena this week, nearly as many assists. The most surprising result of the week came as OAS Royal blasted off to Alpha HM87 to take on the Cavedwellers. The game turned on its head at the half-hour mark after Colony defender Elizabeth Kent snapped studs-up into Sen Marsteller on a late challenge, sending her off on a stretcher. Without their most lively attacking player this season, the Whites struggled for ideas (and to control their emotions). To rub salt in the wound, Kent was only shown a yellow for her shin-snapper and later scored the game's only goal. "She shouldn't have even been on the pitch," Syl Denhardt grumbled to the microphones stuck in his face afterwards. "Just because they're incapable of winning a match on normal terms doesn't mean they should get a pity pass on their Fevelian dark arts." BURN.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 16

FC Kaldukosic 0–3 Treftadaeth Alliance
Almeida 33', Champali 64', Miller 76'

Pelethas United 1–0 Olask Islanders
Alotic 44'

Klyde 4–2 Ramusok United
Mal 1', Kvalderkorr 14', Butterworth 36', Kvalderkorr 90+6' | Sutton 74', Stone 77'

Keenan Athletic 1–4 Cassandra City
Waz 8' | Va'Afaja 5', Dyer Vry 53', de Sájajo 73', Meier 76'

OAS Royal FC 4–2 Crawford City FC
Kahara 3', Di Sansev 25', Koclanes 72', Møller 87' | Klein 39', Bloodblade 90'

Mallox 4–2 Fevelo Colony
Engram 28', Riordan 34', Masatoshi 50', Riordan 54' | Morbrand 10', 21'

Goldstaff City 4–4 FC Samotath
Özturk 23', Na'Konate 30', Jones 44', Bannion 75' | Silvestri 27', Guss 52', Nyström 82', Silvestri 90+7'

Samaj FC 0–1 AC Holmenkollen
Jaeger 39'

Eastweald 0–0 Real Azuris

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Eastweald-Real Azuris is a big-time joust for mid-season positioning at the pointy end of the table, but it ends scoreless thanks to clutch saves by goalkeepers Hesterine Mercator and Edith Tidesson. The result favors the Elves, who retain their top spot, and the Old Weldenskirgen faithful are singing "She's the 'keeper of our hearts" after the final whistle. Up in Ashen Point, Apple Jack continues to impress in his debut managerial season. He's rotating Isaiah Miller and Irene Almeida at center forward to great effect. Regardless of which is starting and which is switching on at the hour mark, they're getting goals and keeping opponents guessing. He also has the Alliance defensive shape looking more disciplined than ever. Rewatching Trefta's 3-0 win over FC Kaldukosic this week is a fascinating study in how the grizzled Equestrian actually managed to out-manage Cillian Najdorf. Before the season, we questioned whether the Klyde FC midfield had enough quality to supply vaunted teen striker Cathal Turner. Of course, they're now having the opposite problem. Midfielders like Henry Hollifield and Micke Kvalderkorr (his brace this week highlighting an intriguing new dimension to his game) have stepped forward, but Turner hasn't been able to take his chances, lacking the confidence he electrified The Klyde Sportsplex with as a super-sub the last two seasons. Fortunately, Ozaria Gandhi has having her best season yet in the turquoise-in-purple. This week also bore witness to the latest goal of the season thus far, a flying header by Santo Silvestri after a whole seven minutes of stoppage time to deny Goldstaff City a much-needed three points, and a brutally-efficient win by Mallox. They let Fevelo Colony try to have the ball, but produced four great countering opportunities and converted ALL of them. Riordan is clearly enjoying herself at The Orange Palace and now leads all strikers in goals. Which begs the question... where is VZR on those goalscoring charts? She's averaging less than a goal every two games this season, a far cry from her goal-a-game rate last year. Nevertheless, Cassandra City were big winners this week, the wingers picking up the slack again. Keenan Athletic naively tried to play pretty through the Reds' famous high press. Just no. Bad Checkers. Bad.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 17

Real Azuris 0–1 FC Kaldukosic
Nisa 27'

AC Holmenkollen 1–1 Eastweald
Sappington 16' | Bond 71'

FC Samotath 1–3 Samaj FC
Navarro 33' | Whitecastle 23' 53', Lovelock 78'

Fevelo Colony 2–0 Goldstaff City
Keldian 33', Odóma 42'

Crawford City FC 4–3 Mallox
Moxham 9', MacArthur 42', Martell 43', Coultan 82' | Siorrha'Asione 20', Hjelmgaard 38', Riordan 69'

Cassandra City 3–1 OAS Royal FC
de Sájajo 16', Zeale-Riddick 69' 86' | Kahara 2'

Ramusok United 0–3 Keenan Athletic
Spisic 31', Cirvante 40' 60'

Olask Islanders 1–0 Klyde
Irwin 2'

Treftadaeth Alliance 3–2 Pelethas United
Goulding 16', Tarmé 64', Perrodien 77' | Saltorius 36', Alotic 57'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: A sight for the sore eyes of FC Kal fans: Kajaurre Nisa looking healthy again and getting back to his scoring ways at Estadio MasseMord. Winning in Azuris is just what the doctor ordered for Najdorf as he looks to rebuild his side's confidence for the second leg of the season. For Real Azuris, getting blanked at home was a missed opportunity to really solidify themselves in the title race with Eastweald stuttering in Holmenkollen. Crawford City FC seized upon the opportunity, however, riding high into the midseason break with a four-goal performance. A substitute Kim Coultan's typically talismanic half-volley winner rallied the Orangi Stadium legions into a frenzy. At the bottom end, FC Samotath's league woes worsened as Samaj's Cherry Whitecastle used their bizarrely high line as a chance to show off the pace and finishing that got her called up to the Hinodejin World Cup squad. Further down, it was an early relegation six-pointer between the bottom two teams: Goldstaff City and Fevelo Colony. A preview of a match that could have huge stakes on the final matchday. Fevelo took this one - on the strength Scion Keldian's grass-cutter from the top of the box and Odóma flicking a Keldian through ball around Liam Toivonen and completing the play with a chip over on-rushing Natassja Ravnajuv. They only seem to do it on their own planet, but Colony are slowly starting to look halfway competent. Somewhat. The result means they're out of the cellar for the first time all season at the midway point. The result also means Diego Bandos, with only one win to his credit, is out of a job in Goldstaff. The Christopheran will be replaced by Anders Videfors, a member Alexander Pearce's national team coaching staff for the last few years, when the team returns from break.






At the midseason break, it looks like the second half of the season is set up for a title race between Eastweald and Crawford City FC, with Real Azuris as a possible third-party. Defending champions Cassandra City, prioritizing Champions' Cup at this point, are just trying to get back into the UICA zone. They'll be hoping that upstart Pelethas and Olask sides come back down to Earth after some time off. The biggest climber of the last two months, however, has been Treftadaeth Alliance - who roll into the break undefeated in five and with some impressive wins. The Astronomers look sure bets to survive now, and could even push for top half.

1015 Härlighet Ligan      Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Eastweald              17   11   6   0    42   21  +21    39
 2  Crawford City FC       17   11   2   4    46   33  +13    35
 3  Real Azuris            17    9   5   3    40   29  +11    32
 4  Pelethas United        17    9   3   5    35   29   +6    30
 5  Olask Islanders        17    9   3   5    33   28   +5    30
 6  OAS Royal FC           17    8   4   5    36   31   +5    28
 7  Mallox                 17    8   4   5    35   32   +3    28
 8  Cassandra City         17    7   5   5    37   27  +10    26
 9  Ramusok United         17    8   1   8    29   37   −8    25
10  Treftadaeth Alliance   17    6   5   6    29   30   −1    23
11  Samaj FC               17    7   2   8    21   25   −4    23
12  Keenan Athletic        17    6   2   9    32   36   −4    20
13  Klyde                  17    5   3   9    36   36    0    18
14  FC Kaldukosic          17    4   6   7    19   24   −5    18
15  AC Holmenkollen        17    3   8   6    20   26   −6    17
16  FC Samotath            17    2   7   8    37   46   −9    13
17  Fevelo Colony          17    3   1  13    20   41  −21    10
18  Goldstaff City         17    1   5  11    21   37  −16     8

Golden Boot Leader: 
  Griffin Riordan (15)

Ziemelu Skaida have sustained their hot start across the entire first half of the season. Few saw them coming, but they've done enough to be considered title front-runners now. Ehab Amkura is a titan in the #6 role, and Xandria Springgate was already a dangerous weapon on the right wing, but has now added more goals to her game. It would be the Parougan Fief side's first-ever promotion, but several teams with HL pedigree (the Greys, Mariners, Serpents and Protons) are equipped to give Skaida a run for their money. Shockingly, IFK Aldenskoett are only one point clear of the drop zone. If they manage to go down, it would be a rare consecutive relegation. Their sister IFK location in Sundsvall isn't doing so hot either without prodigy midfielder Maia Abylon (now powering Olask up the HL table).

1015 Sekundar Ligan      Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Ziemelu Skaida            17   12   2   3    35   23  +12    38
 2 Stoneshore United         17   11   2   4    31   17  +14    35
 3 Na'Ilee Mariners          17    9   3   5    27   18   +9    30
 4 Centus Serpents           17    8   6   3    22   17   +5    30
 5 Helfin Fief               17    8   4   5    33   24   +9    28
 6 Gwynt Tywyll              17    7   6   4    18   11   +7    27
 7 Zakhoro Aces              17    7   5   5    30   30    0    26
 8 West Gundar               17    8   2   7    25   25    0    26
 9 Revanigruud Riversharks   17    6   4   7    27   26   +1    22
10 Versiaville               17    5   7   5    37   39   −2    22
11 Morponte Fief             17    6   4   7    26   28   −2    22
12 Pristine Forest           17    6   3   8    23   30   −7    21
13 Regalia City              17    3   9   5    31   31    0    18
14 IFK Aldenskoett           17    4   5   8    28   30   −2    17
15 FC Flen                   17    4   5   8    36   40   −4    17
16 IFK Sundsvall             17    4   4   9    15   27  −12    16
17 Sontäfe City              17    3   4  10    19   35  −16    13
18 Nomad Brotherhood FC      17    2   5  10    20   32  −12    11

No clear favorites yet, with four clubs tied on 37 and two more within three points. What a bloodbath this year has been in Cosumar's third tier. There isn't much more separation at the bottom either.

1015 Tredje Ligan       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cassandra Cosmopolitan   21    9  10   2    42   29  +13    37
 2 AFC Obscura 98           21   11   4   6    32   22  +10    37
 3 Otkins Numenvernia       21   11   4   6    62   54   +8    37
 4 Fort Archer FC           21   12   1   8    39   34   +5    37
 5 Seryddwyr Aberaeron      21   11   3   7    50   42   +8    36
 6 Nuur Origins FC          21   10   4   7    24   18   +6    34
 7 Bergtatt Isle Athletic   21    9   5   7    32   24   +8    32
 8 Klyde Heritage FC        21    9   5   7    26   25   +1    32
 9 Rexnor District 3        21    7   8   6    29   24   +5    29
10 Riverside Crew           21    7   8   6    29   26   +3    29
11 White Tower FC           21    8   5   8    41   40   +1    29
12 Pardock Island           21    8   5   8    23   32   −9    29
13 SC Torpedo Kejsarkona    21    7   7   7    38   36   +2    28
14 Everlong FC              21    7   5   9    36   38   −2    26
15 AC Sepultura             21    5   9   7    46   48   −2    24
16 Atletisk Surpronuk       21    6   6   9    33   36   −3    24
17 Azure Lane FC            21    6   6   9    36   44   −8    24
18 Caledon Legion           21    6   5  10    32   42  −10    23
19 Portsmouth FC            21    5   7   9    27   33   −6    22
20 Sindo Fief               21    5   6  10    26   34   −8    21
21 West Devellin            21    5   6  10    37   47  −10    21
22 Rexnor District 5        21    5   5  11    39   51  −12    20

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Third Round

FC Kaldukosic (H) 1–1 Bergtatt Island Athletic (T) (2–1 AET)
Eastweald (H) 2–0 East Ellum (L2)
Inter Juta (L2) 0–1 Pristine Forest (S)
AC Holmenkollen (H) 4–3 Hagenheim South End (L1)
Villa Forsetti (L2) 1–0 Scarborough (L2)
Dawchire Town (L1) 0–1 Treftadaeth Alliance (H)
Sontäfe City (S) 1–1 Fevelo Colony (H) (1–3 AET)
Rexnor District 6 (L2) 0–1 Pelethas United (H)
Hvalsey 08 (L1) 2–2 Gamlasir (L2) (2–2 AET) (3–5 pen.)
East Gundar (L2) 0–3 FC Samotath (H)
Alstagruuket Sarlaccs FC (L2) 1–1 FC Kviststad (L2) (1–1 AET) (4–5 pen.)
Atlético Oterro (L1) 0–1 FC Flen (S)
Crawford City FC II (L2) 0–5 OAS Royal FC (H)
Falco Na'Diveh (L1) 2–0 Cape Dutch Copperheads (L2)
Sindo Fief (T) 1–3 Riverside Crew (T)
Real Azuris (H) 4–0 Glasbon SC (L2)
Highlanders (L1) 0–2 Dvinko Black Heart (L1)
Everlong FC (T) 1–0 Ajatarra Alligators (L2)
Noths Castle (L2) 1–1 Nuur Origins FC (T) (2–1 AET)
Murkwaamp Suns FC (L2) 1–0 Talmusok City (L1)
FC Dynamo Kurbads (L2) 0–1 Attumac Wanderers (L2)
Centus Serpents (S) 1–0 Silk FC (L1)
Rexnor District 5 (T) 1–0 Helfin Fief (S)
Ramusok United (H) 6–4 Ziemelu Skaida (S)
Marinus City (L2) 0–3 Na'Ilee Mariners (S)
Rexnor District 3 (T) 0–1 Crawford City FC (H)
Nomad Brotherhood (S) 2–2 Regalia City (S) (2–2 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Marshall-Blue FC (L2) 2–0 Grayslake (L2)
Olask Islanders (H) 3–0 Aläng FF (L1)
Portsmouth (T) 0–1 Zakhoro Aces (S)
Atletisk Surpronuk (T) 3–3 Cassandra City (H) (3–3 AET) (4–2 pen.)
IFK Aldenskoett (S) 1–0 1. FC Guggenheim (L2)

Fourth Round

FC Kaldukosic (H) 0–1 Eastweald (H)
Pristine Forest (S) 3–3 AC Holmenkollen (H) (3–3 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Villa Forsetti (L2) 1–2 Treftadaeth Alliance (H)
Fevelo Colony (H) 1–0 Pelethas United (H)
Gamlasir (L2) 2–2 East Gundar (L2) (2–2 AET) (2–4 pen.)
FC Samotath (H) 8–1 FC Kviststad (L2)
FC Flen (S) 2–2 OAS Royal FC (H) (3–2 AET)
Falco Na'Diveh (L1) 1–0 Riverside Crew (T)
Real Azuris (H) 4–0 Dvinko Black Heart (L1)
Everlong FC (T) 3–1 Noths Castle (L2)
Murkwaamp Suns FC (L2) 2–0 Attumac Wanderers (L2)
Centus Serpents (S) 0–2 Rexnor District 5 (T)
Ramusok United (H) 1–4 Na'Ilee Mariners (S)
Crawford City FC (H) 2–0 Regalia City (S)
Marshall-Blue FC (L2) 0–3 Olask Islanders (H)
Zakhoro Aces (S) 4–2 Atletisk Surpronuk (T)

[Cosumar]

Cygnus Cup First Round

(OME)         Sassari Trailblazers    0-1    Revanigruud Riversharks      (COS)   0-0   0-1
(COS)                  Real Azuris    5-2    Kabanalan SC 004             (FID)   3-1   2-1

Cygnus Cup Round of 16

(COS)      Revanigruud Riversharks    4-1    Navel FC                     (WRL)   1-1   3-0
(COS)                  Real Azuris    2-3    Lonngeylin Coast             (VIL)   2-1   0-2

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 18

FC Kaldukosic 3–3 Pelethas United
Teika 45+1', Rathskeller 56', Woetekker 59' | Miettinen 1' 44', Said 52'

Treftadaeth Alliance 1–3 Klyde
Champali 37' | Cornthatch 27', Tarashaj 41', Turner 56'

Olask Islanders 3–2 Keenan Athletic
Methüzema 23', Na'Tlipoca 28', Irwin 41' | Sade 12', 37'

Ramusok United 4–2 OAS Royal FC
Stone 15', Wheeler 44', Wedderburn 63', Wheeler 90+4' | Drover 56', Møller 89'

Cassandra City 4–1 Mallox
Zeale-Riddick 21' 29', Dyer Vry 42', Sonar Amethyst 49' | Masatoshi 65'

Crawford City FC 2–1 Goldstaff City
Moxham 30', Coultan 52' | Jelic 16'

Fevelo Colony 1–0 Samaj FC
Odóma 58'

FC Samotath 2–4 Eastweald
Kolitsidakis 41', Navarro 52' | der Pros 16', Bond 23' 39' 84'

AC Holmenkollen 4–3 Real Azuris
Stilic 5', Jaeger 18', Riprov 26', Jaeger 32' | Sigurjonsdottir 23', Benedict 35', Arrowsword 86'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: As Cosumar collectively welcomes Härlighet Ligan soccer back to its weekend routines, there's a lot to look ahead to in the second half of the season. How much longer can Eastweald preserve its undefeated record? Can Crawford City FC or Real Azuris catch up to them? Are the Islanders really UICA contenders? Which of the remaining gaggle of Globe Cup hopefuls will separate themselves from the pack?
A Major Ramusok Derby seemed like it could provide some early insight towards that last question. Jock Sonny's Ramusok United just look hungrier and sharper than embattled Syl Denhardt's OAS Royal on the night, drawing level on points with the Whites on Corby Wheeler's breakaway strike that made it 4-2 with the last kick. Perhaps United just kept fitter than Royal over the long midseason break, or perhaps their jubilant fans lifted their performance up. What IS certain, however, is that Wheeler was the brightest player on the pitch with 2 goals and an assist. The Brenecian continues to shed her "mercurial" tag before our eyes.


Cygnus Cup Quarterfinals, First Leg
Olympia FC 0-6 Revanigruud Riversharks

Cringe. Embarrassing scenes in Eastfield Lodge as second-tier Revanigruud Riversharks put Olympia FC to the sword in front of their home fans. The Nuur Colony side's cinderella story from last year's King's Cup might just keep writing itself all the way to a chance at an international trophy...

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 19

AC Holmenkollen 0–0 FC Kaldukosic

Real Azuris 4–3 FC Samotath
Benedict 23' 60', Chisenhall 74', Clorfeine 90+2' | Bermond 2', Navarro 72', Nyström 80'

Eastweald 4–2 Fevelo Colony
Hopkins 14, der Pros 44', Kovačević 45+2', Bond 89' | Morbrand 68', Odóma 75'

Samaj FC 0–1 Crawford City FC
Bloodblade 17'

Goldstaff City 0–2 Cassandra City
de Sájajo 27', Zeale-Riddick 49'

Mallox 2–1 Ramusok United
Riordan 52', Chappelle 81' | Wedderburn 67'

OAS Royal FC 0–0 Olask Islanders

Keenan Athletic 1–1 Treftadaeth Alliance
Spisic 11' | Morten 90+3'

Klyde 3–1 Pelethas United
Butterworth 57', Turner 59', Fierro 90+1' | Alotic 6'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: New Goldstaff City manager Anders Videfors makes his Bostitch Lane debut. The Guardians look much better under his instruction, and the home support are clearly encouraged by the positive display, but Videfors is unfortunate that it was the defending champions in town. Cassandra City's extra bit of quality made the difference, Lojes de Sájajo bending in a beautiful goal from outside the box that Natassja Ravnajuv couldn't have saved if she was eight feet tall and Vega Zeale-Riddick tapping home a well-worked team sequence. Respectable losses are a decent start, but Goldstaff need points pronto.


Cygnus Cup Quarterfinals, Second Leg
Revanigruud Riversharks 1-0 Olympia FC
Revanigruud Riversharks advance 7-0 on aggregate

#9 Tegsune Na'Japuna is having the season of his life. After his hat trick at Olympia, he scores again in Revanigruud with a great reaction volley off his teammate's deflected shot to finish the Eastfielders off. The Riversharks are on to the Cygnus Cup Semifinals. If anyone had put $100 on that a year ago... they'd be richer than the King.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 20

FC Kaldukosic 0–2 Klyde
Doyle 9', Broon 42'

Pelethas United 1–2 Keenan Athletic
Greenchurch 30' | Sade 74', Cirvante 88'

Treftadaeth Alliance 0–3 OAS Royal FC
Rocket 38', Marchant 79', Coffey 90+2'

Olask Islanders 4–2 Mallox
Way 5', Methüzema 38', Irwin 47', Tamburelli 90+4' | Riordan 8', Vu'Zago 64'

Ramusok United 3–1 Goldstaff City
Wedderburn 38', Wheeler 49', Arrowsmith 60' | Bannion 40'

Cassandra City 4–2 Samaj FC
de Sájajo 10' 17', Zeale-Riddick 64', Frostmarris 74' | Fitzstephens 19', Nathael 59'

Crawford City FC 1–0 Eastweald
Kárpáty 53'

Fevelo Colony 0–4 Real Azuris
Sigurjonsdottir 40', Benedict 48', Arrowsword 62', Sigurjonsdottir 88'

FC Samotath 2–1 AC Holmenkollen
Nyström 50', Guss 61' | Jaeger 10'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Pelethas United have returned to action looking flat, giving up leads in three consecutive matches and tumbling out of the UICA zone. Maybe they enjoyed themselves a little too much on the Pelethas beaches over the midseason break. Eastweald haven't been showing any signs of rust, however, going into this week's top-of-the-table clash with Crawford City FC having scored four goals apiece in the last two matches. But in a massive performance, CCFC are able to keep the clean sheet at home! The fullbacks have been discussed as the weak link of Amethyst Fegelein's side, but they stepped up to the plate against the lethal Eastweald wing duo of Ishtar Fanaiyan and Brian Bond in this one. The tallest CB duo in HL history (minotaur Bloodblade and Drawkish giant Sarah Arrowsword) then ensured the space directly in front of Hansi Weschler was an impenetratable no-fly zone. Alexander Kárpáty tucked away the game's lone goal in the second half - a gentle panenka penalty to gently narrow the gap behind Eastweald to one point...



AOCL Group Stage

P Group A                      Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Flanders FC                    6   4  2  0   14   8  +6   14
2 Cassandra City                 6   3  2  1   12  10  +2   11
3 Krsthaven                      6   1  2  3    5   9  −4    5
4 Manechester City HC            6   0  2  4    7  11  −4    2

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 21

FC Samotath 0–1 FC Kaldukosic
Bengochea 81'

AC Holmenkollen 1–1 Fevelo Colony
Spekter 86' | Odóma 90+2'

Real Azuris 0–2 Crawford City FC
Kárpáty 24', Coultan 28'

Eastweald 1–1 Cassandra City
Fanaiyan 90+3' | Vivas 88'

Samaj FC 2–3 Ramusok United
Whitecastle 3', Jurevicius 76' | Wedderburn 43' 55', Luminesce 74'

Goldstaff City 5–2 Olask Islanders
Jones 44', Bannion 63', Özturk 73', Bannion 88', Jones 90+5' | Tzyzakoos 58', Parchot 85'

Mallox 2–3 Treftadaeth Alliance
Emery 21', Dé 48' | Thursson 4', Tarmé 35', Teijeiro 52'

OAS Royal FC 2–4 Pelethas United
Møller 19', Koclanes 68' | Alotic 11' 14', Aspenwood 28', Alotic 45'

Keenan Athletic 5–4 Klyde
Cirvante 29', Spisic 54', Cutnine 56', Woodwind 75', Spisic 84' | Turner 12', Gandhi 21', Kvalderkorr 57', Tarashaj 90'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Crawford City FC keep rolling, going to Azuris and blanking another formidable opponent. Weschler makes five saves and Kárpáty pops up with a couple timely moments of brilliance. A couple other exciting games go scoreless until the final minutes, with one team in both thinking it got a late winner... only for the others to equalize right back at the death. One such game unfolds in the lower half. Fevelo Colony reverse Holmenkollen's Curtis Thébérge - still celebrating on the touchline moments prior - into a comical temper tantrum as Domé Odóma stops his final run in his tracks to lose marker Ektorp Na'Nockeby and whip Shiv Ferdinand's desperate cutback from the endline first-time into the side-netting. The other parallel ending unfolded between two of Cosumar's blue-bloods. Cassandra City's Didac Vivas, now an Audioslavia international right back, raced into the box late and lashed a loose sitter past Hesterine Mercator in the 88th minute. But five minutes later, as Bellerophon Serafino was extolling the referee to blow the final whistle, Fanaiyan dipped her shoulder and sliced through three defenders with a great cut. She had end product too, chipping the on-rushing Calogero Metz to send Old Weldenskirgen into a frenzy of relief and waving yellow flags.

Remember the hints of improvement Goldstaff City showed in Videfors' debut? They came to full fruition this week. Sweet sweet payoff as their five goals stunned the shellshocked Islanders! Cade Jones turned back the clock to expose some of the defensive deficiencies that haunted Olask's Collette Sade back at Real Azuris. Also looking improved in the second half of the season is Lara Wedderburn. The Schottian striker was in danger of becoming the forgotten woman at Ramusok United with the arrival of Winston Arrowsmith, but here she is leading the line and scoring goals again as the Blues race out to three wins in four!


AOCL Quarterfinals, First Leg
Tihon (CMT) 2-3 Cassandra City

It's a good midweek night for Cassandra City. Arturo Mancini rotates a little bit in light of his team needing to push up the HL table, and he's still able to come away with three away goals and a lead. Ursula Rowan wore the armband and led the otherwise largely second-choice unit, assisting all three goals in Chromatika - each one restoring the lead after Tihon's two equalizers.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 22

FC Kaldukosic 1–4 Keenan Athletic
Satotxe 24' | Sade 45', Spisic 59', Sade 60', Byfuglien 90+5'

Klyde 2–5 OAS Royal FC
Fierro 13', Kvalderkorr 37' | Coffey 15', Marchant 49', Rocket 87', Møller 89', Hanger 90+1'

Pelethas United 2–4 Mallox
Cyn-Penzag 2', Alotic 70' | Riordan 18', Masatoshi 66', Riordan 83', Masatoshi 90'

Treftadaeth Alliance 0–1 Goldstaff City
Zigfield 3'

Olask Islanders 1–0 Samaj FC
Way 76'

Ramusok United 1–2 Eastweald
Luminesce 9' | Kovačević 38', Bond 64'

Cassandra City 1–5 Real Azuris
Zeale-Riddick 41' | Arrowsword 16', Haidt 18', Sigurjonsdottir 26', Biondi 37', Billic 72'

Crawford City FC 3–1 AC Holmenkollen
Belladonna 50', Alcouin 69', Moxham 75' | Riprov 31'

Fevelo Colony 0–2 FC Samotath
Nyström 54', Silanii 68'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Well, the rotation didn't do Cassandra City much good. They pretty much capitulate right away at the first sign of real pressure from Real Azuris, who are up 4-0 after 38 minutes. Stephen Gargo and Diedrich Frostmarris have been a dependable veteran CB partnership for the Reds, but they were made to look old and clumsy in this one. Cassandra end up losing 5-1. Not pretty. The other team to concede five this weekend - Klyde FC - have a little more to feel good about. Corey Simmons Jr. knows how to build young teams into contenders, and his Doves looked like just that... for 85 minutes. They competed on even footing with OAS Royal across the pitch and even led 2-1 at half time after Micke Kvalderkorr rounded Shalhoub, slotted diagonally home and slid emphatically in front of the supporters. But their youth (and fatigue from pushing themselves too hard all match) showed at the end. Denhardt made adjustments and 36-year-old substitute Alex Rocket taught them some new tricks. All in the final ten minutes, the ancient winger scored, assisted Thor Møller's goal, and won the corner that led to Ellie Hanger's cherry-on-top header. 5-2 sounds bad, but Klyde aren't far from getting points from tough matches like these.



AOCL Quarterfinals, Second Leg
Cassandra City 1-0 Tihon
Cassandra City advance 4-2 on aggregate

At the end of a dull conservatively-played affair, Scheherazade Meier gave the lighter-than-usual Cassandra crowd something to cheer for with a no-look backheel finish to see City into the regional semifinals. The defense had a good bounce-back outing after the catastrophe in Azuris.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 23

Fevelo Colony 0–1 FC Kaldukosic
Ekeh 3'

FC Samotath 2–3 Crawford City FC
Silvestri 19', Sommerfield 65' | Moxham 53', Mosquera 63', MacArthur 88'

AC Holmenkollen 2–1 Cassandra City
Na'Nockeby 6', Riprov 88' | Dyer Vry 32'

Real Azuris 1–1 Ramusok United
Arrowsword 23' | Bachelor 51'

Eastweald 3–1 Olask Islanders
Ilya 7', der Pros 38', Del Angel 84' | Tzyzakoos 61'

Samaj FC 0–1 Treftadaeth Alliance
Robitaille 4'

Goldstaff City 4–4 Pelethas United
Zigfield 16', Özturk 54', Sühnhold 69', Blazek 85' | Alotic 25', Greenchurch 44', Lingxin 49', Cyn-Penzag 56'

Mallox 3–1 Klyde
Engram 10', Masatoshi 31', Benjamin 55' | Gandhi 23'

OAS Royal FC 0–1 Keenan Athletic
Spisic 71'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Crawford City FC escape Samotath on an awkwardly-headed 88th minute winner, continuing their red-hot run since the break. By taking the ball off young defender Wil Jabelon and tucking away an 88th minute winner of her own, Lili Riprov ensured Cassandra City's fortunes - on the other hand - would remain mixed. It's a good result for Holmenkollen too, by the way, who look like they'll stay up barring a collapse of some sort. Knock on wood. That's what Mallox supporters - cautiously encouraged by Taka Masatoshi's newfound eye for goal recently - are doing after the young #10 anointed himself "the best goalscoring attacking mid in Cosumar right now" via Twii.



Champions' Cup Round of 16, First Leg
CA Paulinthal (PAS) 2-2 Cassandra City
Crawford City FC 0-1 Cednia Beach AFC (TUR)

All you need to see from these first leg matches is that pirouetting karate-kick goal by Vega Zeale-Riddick. Just wow. Only Queen VZR. The fact that it equalized the away leg at 2-2 in the 86th minute was just icing on the cake.


Globe Cup Round of 16, First Leg
FC Samotath 2-1 Sporting Esper (ZWZ)
Real Azuris 1-0 Avenida Leal (FFD)

Andrew Arrowsword steps up and buries a potentially decisive penalty for Azuris, while FC Samotath can continue to hope for a Globe Cup run to salvage their season after securing a lead to take to a hostile away leg in Zwangzug. The Kolitisdakis free kick and first-time Mako Silanii scoop were niiiice.


Series B Champions' Cup Round of 16, First Leg
Dangerford (EUR) 1-1 Fevelo Colony

Andris Berzins will want that one back, charging out of his box to clean up an overhit Dangerford through ball and whiffing, allowing the opposing forward to latch onto it instead and dribble into open net. Oof. Fortunately, the Fevelians were able to muster some respectability back with a 57th minute equalizer, bundled across the line by d-mid Tim Huel on a late run into the box.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 24

FC Kaldukosic 2–2 OAS Royal FC
Na'Jhadur 36', Hieri 41' | Marsteller 77', Møller 90+3'

Keenan Athletic 1–4 Mallox
Malleom 89' | Riordan 9', Dé 32', Riordan 53' 54'

Klyde 1–1 Goldstaff City
Turner 59' | Saulnesis 34'

Pelethas United 1–1 Samaj FC
Brinegar 21' | Lovelock 39'

Treftadaeth Alliance 3–4 Eastweald
Almeida 4', Gristlecharm 51', Gates 70' | Kovačević 26', Tali'raia 35', Fanaiyan 62', Kovačević 68'

Olask Islanders 2–6 Real Azuris
Abylon 1', Tzyzakoos 22' | Sigurjonsdottir 31', Chisenhall 40', Mormentor 46', Benedict 79', Billic 82', Benedict 87'

Ramusok United 1–1 AC Holmenkollen
Arrowsmith 28' | Wynder 71'

Cassandra City 2–1 FC Samotath
Jabelon 7', Schneiderlin 43' | Navarro 39'

Crawford City FC 3–3 Fevelo Colony
Moxham 43', Belladonna 90', Klein 90+3' | Odóma 26', Solignac 56', Odóma 86'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: CCFC's winning streak is brought to a halt (by Fevelo Colony of all teams - their teenage striker Odóma is starting to find his footing at this level), but the Elephants rally to make sure the unbeaten run is preserved, at least. Odóma's sliding back-post finish in the 86th minute made it 3-1 and unleashed a chorus of grumbles at Orangi Stadium, but Rusalka Klein responded. She then rolled a beautiful pass 40 yards through pretty much the entire Fevelo team to reach Chimera Moxham perfectly in stride. After a couple precise dribbles to draw the defenders out of position, Moxham slid the ball across the box for a wide-open Marigold Belladonna to redirect for 3-2. After three more minutes of sustained pressure, the crowd egging them on for an equalizer, it was Klein again who was in a position to make the difference. The Nepharim nodded the ball down and under Andriz Berzins after Kárpáty's powerful shot thudded back out to her off the crossbar. Elsewhere, the weekend is notable for some high-scoring affairs. Real Azuris pounce and nab six as Olask continues to sail back down to Earth, Eastweald come out on the winning end of a seven-goal thriller up at Treftadaeth Alliance (Apple Jack's Astronomers continue to earn respect despite surrendering Kovačević's chipped winner), and the Masatoshi-Riordan connection rips Keenan Athletic's defense a new one. Riordan's hat trick could've been five.



Champions' Cup Round of 16, Second Leg
Cassandra City 2-1 CA Paulinthal
Cassandra City advance 4-3 on aggregate

Cednia Beach AFC 1-1 Crawford City FC
Crawford City FC eliminated 2-1 on aggregate

Crawford City FC's Champions' Cup dreams come to an end at the hands of the Cosumarite starlet that snubbed them over the transfer window: Isla Sibucic. Cednia Beach has a new hero, while CCFC's longtime hero Kim Coultan is left looking around in frustration at the final whistle. But Cassandra City will represent Cosumar in the Quarterfinals after fending off CA Paulinthal at home. Their press was lacking its usual energy and effectiveness, but a heroic performance in goal by Calogero Metz kept Ragnar Targaryen & Co. at bay.


Globe Cup Round of 16, Second Leg
Sporting Esper 1-0 FC Samotath
FC Samotath eliminated 2-2 on away goals

Avenida Leal 0-0 Real Azuris
Real Azuris advance 1-0 on aggregate

Sporting Esper play for a 1-0 win, sitting in a low block to keep Samotath out and hoping for a lucky goal on a set-piece or something on the other end. And they get it. McCall Kirby completely falls asleep on her mark and gives away a free header off a corner in the 65th minute to lose the series. Real Azuris, on the other hand, play to protect their own 1-0 lead. Marshaled emphatically by Alfred Tidesson, the Breakers' back line really stood up to be counted, shutting down Avenida Leal in Farfadillis.


Series B Champions' Cup Round of 16, Second Leg
Fevelo Colony 1-0 Dangerford
Fevelo Colony advance 2-1 on aggregate

Colony had the edge with their away goal back in Eura, but Aurora Solignac put the tie beyond any doubt with her acute finish at the near post after an overlapping run. What a great through ball by Via Ardanova to find her! Where has this combination play been in the league?

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 25

Crawford City FC 6–2 FC Kaldukosic
Kárpáty 21' 25', Martell 29', Alcouin 52', Moxham 53', Belladonna 74' | Ekeh 18', Woetekker 71'

Fevelo Colony 2–5 Cassandra City
Odóma 25', 40' | Frostmarris 2', de Sájajo 30', Zeale-Riddick 52', Frostmarris 85', Konsé 87'

FC Samotath 3–4 Ramusok United
Nyström 6', Exarchopolous 10', Nyström 31' | Wedderburn 23', Luminesce 45', Bachelor 55', Arrowsmith 63'

AC Holmenkollen 1–0 Olask Islanders
Jaeger 16'

Real Azuris 4–0 Treftadaeth Alliance
Biondi 8', Akarenaa 25', Yucob 61' 70'

Eastweald 2–0 Pelethas United
der Pros 62', Mordini 90+1'

Samaj FC 2–1 Klyde
Vanderlei 45+1', Jurevicius 68' | Butterworth 54'

Goldstaff City 1–1 Keenan Athletic
Xiaopeng 50' | Cirvante 33'

Mallox 1–5 OAS Royal FC
Emery 73' | Ferne 14', Drover 26', Marsteller 28', Møller 44', Marchant 90+5'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: You though Matchday 24 had goals? "Hold my beer," says Matchday 25. Unfortunately, few of them are good games. It's a week of blowouts that delivered a fair few dire wake-up calls to certain teams. Crawford City FC pick apart FC Kaldukosic with their midfield excellence and on this day the clinical finishing is there (from a variety of sources) to truly make it pay. Cassandra City simply run over Fevelo Colony in the second half, steamrolling towards their goal for entire last half hour as if they couldn't even see them. Rotating in due to the midweek Globe Cup games, a very fresh-looking Semyon Yucob finally has his breakout moment in the Breakers' shirt, earning the plaudits of Estadio MasseMord with 3 nutmegs, 2 goals and 1 assist. Treftadaeth Alliance looked like they were wilting (or melting) under the sweltering Azurian afternoon sun.

Harlighet Ligan Matchday 26

FC Kaldukosic 1–1 Mallox
Nisa 51' | Masatoshi 48'

OAS Royal FC 4–0 Goldstaff City
Kahara 4', Marsteller 18', Simmons III 21', Marsteller 88'

Keenan Athletic 0–1 Samaj FC
Erakin 8'

Klyde 0–0 Eastweald

Pelethas United 3–4 Real Azuris
Maersk 79', Kåsa 83', Tarrant 90+1' | Akarenaa 3', Billic 19', Sigurjonsdottir 33', Billic 73'

Treftadaeth Alliance 0–0 AC Holmenkollen

Olask Islanders 1–2 FC Samotath
Scafidis 38' | Navarro 2', Nyström 7'

Ramusok United 5–2 Fevelo Colony
Sparrow Body 7', Sutton 14', Winterseer 18', Wheeler 31', Arrowsmith 70' | Morbrand 45+1', Ardanova 50'

Cassandra City 1–2 Crawford City FC
Gargo 72' | Moxham 40', Martell 85'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Look what it means to Amethyst Fegelein!!! Tied with Cassandra City 1-1 in the 85th minute, her super-sub winger Joaquin Martell is played in on the left by Chimera Moxham after collecting a pocket pass from from Jennifer Farrow. The red-clad thousands at The Amphitheatre were still clamoring for a winner at the other end, but Martell cared not - sweeping a low finish under Metz's dive. Fegelein falls to her knees with both fists pumping maniacally as assistant coaches leap off the bench and swarm her in celebration. With the massive away win, the Nepharim legend's Crawford City FC side have overtaken season-long leaders Eastweald in the table. The four-point deficit at the midseason break has been erased. And It's not like the Elves have been struggling either! Quite the opposite, in fact. (Not until they came up against the distinguished goalkeeping presence of Lind Pressinger this week, at least.) It's just that the Elephants have been that good lately. Crawford's last ten matches? Nine wins and a draw. That kind of pace will overtake anyone. Can they keep it going down the final stretch?

Elsewhere, the Islanders have fallen off since that drubbing from Real Azuris last month - three straight losses to slump out of the UICA zone. My heart is heavy tonight for the humble folk on Olask who had dared start to dream of UICA prestige for their barren patch of sea rock. Ramusok United, by contrast, have kicked things into gear in the attack. Jock Sonny has some real competition at striker with Winston Arrowsmith snapping back into form to match Wedderburn's outburst in recent weeks. Whoever he opts for up top is scoring goals and winning matches. That's a great dilemma to have, especially when they continue to leak a bit in the back. They're in that 6th spot now. Sonny's three-year plan to return United to UICA status might just come to fruition in the final year...






Besides CCFC becoming the new leader, what's most striking about the three-quarters table might just be FC Samotath in the Relegation Playoff spot... one year after making the Globe Cup. Longtime manager Šimon Holguín is living week-to-week now. The rumor is that he would've been sacked if he hadn't gotten that win on Olask Isle this weekend. The uphill climb to guaranteed safety (FC Kaldukosic six points ahead) is looking pretty steep. But Holguín has delivered theatrical football and goals this year, so he still has his backers in the more fucking fanatical traditionalist sect of Samotath supporters.

1015 Härlighet Ligan       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Crawford City FC       26   19   3   4    69   43  +26    60
 2  Eastweald              26   17   8   1    62   32  +30    59
 3  Real Azuris            26   15   6   5    71   45  +26    51
 4  Cassandra City         26   12   6   8    58   43  +15    42
 5  OAS Royal FC           26   12   6   8    59   45  +14    42
 6  Ramusok United         26   13   3  10    52   53   −1    42
 7  Mallox                 26   12   5   9    55   54   +1    41
 8  Olask Islanders        26   12   4  10    47   49   −2    40
 9  Pelethas United        26   10   6  10    54   54    0    36
10  Keenan Athletic        26   10   4  12    49   52   −3    34
11  Treftadaeth Alliance   26    8   7  11    38   48  −10    31
12  AC Holmenkollen        26    6  12   8    31   37   −6    30
13  Samaj FC               26    9   3  14    29   38   −9    30
14  Klyde FC               26    8   5  13    53   54   −1    29
15  FC Kaldukosic          26    6  10  10    30   42  −12    28
16  FC Samotath            26    5   7  14    54   66  −12    22
17  Goldstaff City         26    3   8  15    35   56  −21    17
18  Fevelo Colony          26    4   3  19    31   66  −35    15

Golden Boot Leader: 
  Griffin Riordan (22)

1015 Sekundar Ligan      Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Ziemelu Skaida            26   16   4   6    42   31  +11    52
 2 Centus Serpents           26   13   9   4    38   25  +13    48
 3 Helfin Fief               26   13   7   6    46   30  +16    46
 4 Stoneshore United         26   14   4   8    44   29  +15    46
 5 Na'Ilee Mariners          26   12   6   8    41   29  +12    42
 6 Revanigruud Riversharks   26   12   5   9    40   33   +7    41
 7 Gwynt Tywyll              26   11   6   9    28   21   +7    39
 8 Zakhoro Aces              26   10   9   7    45   47   −2    39
 9 West Gundar               26   11   5  10    38   39   −1    38
10 Morponte Fief             26   10   7   9    41   37   +4    37
11 Versiaville               26    8  10   8    53   56   −3    34
12 Pristine Forest           26    9   6  11    39   48   −9    33
13 IFK Aldenskoett           26    8   7  11    41   43   −2    31
14 Regalia City              26    7  10   9    40   43   −3    31
15 FC Flen                   26    6   6  14    56   65   −9    24
16 IFK Sundsvall             26    5   6  15    23   40  −17    21
17 Nomad Brotherhood FC      26    4   8  14    28   42  −14    20
18 Sontäfe City              26    5   5  16    27   52  −25    20

1015 Tredje Ligan       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Cassandra Cosmopolitan   32   15  13   4    72   53  +19    58
 2 Bergtatt Isle Athletic   32   17   6   9    52   35  +17    57
 3 Otkins Numenvernia       32   16   8   8    81   67  +14    56
 4 Fort Archer FC           32   17   5  10    61   50  +11    56
 5 Nuur Origins FC          32   17   4  11    38   27  +11    55
 6 SC Torpedo Kejsarkona    32   15   8   9    59   50   +9    53
 7 Seryddwyr Aberaeron      32   15   6  11    75   65  +10    51
 8 White Tower FC           32   14   7  11    59   56   +3    49
 9 Klyde Heritage FC        32   13   9  10    36   32   +4    48
10 Pardock Island           32   13   8  11    43   48   −5    47
11 AFC Obscura 98           32   13   7  12    50   45   +5    46
12 Portsmouth FC            32   11  10  11    47   49   −2    43
13 Atletisk Surpronuk       32   11   7  14    53   59   −6    40
14 Rexnor District 3        32    9  11  12    35   34   +1    38
15 Sindo Fief               32    9  10  13    45   49   −4    37
16 AC Sepultura             32    8  12  12    68   71   −3    36
17 Riverside Crew           32    8  12  12    34   37   −3    36
18 Everlong FC              32   10   5  17    49   59  −10    35
19 Caledon Legion           32    9   8  15    45   58  −13    35
20 Azure Lane FC            32    8   7  17    51   69  −18    31
21 Rexnor District 5        32    7   9  16    51   69  −18    30
22 West Devellin            32    8   6  18    51   73  −22    30

---

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Round of 16
Eastweald (H) 3–1 AC Holmenkollen (H)
Treftadaeth Alliance (H) 2–5 Fevelo Colony (H)
FC Samotath (H) 3–1 FC Flen (S)
Falco Na'Diveh (L1) 0–3 Real Azuris (H)
Everlong FC (T) 4–1 Murkwaamp Suns FC (L2)
Rexnor District 5 (T) 2–5 Na'Ilee Mariners (S)
Crawford City FC (H) 1–1 Olask Islanders (H) (2–1 AET)
Zakhoro Aces (S) 1–1 IFK Aldenskoett (S) (1–1 AET) (6–5 pen.)


Quarterfinals
Eastweald (H) 1–0 Fevelo Colony (H)
FC Samotath (H) 1–5 Real Azuris (H)
Everlong FC (T) 0–0 Na'Ilee Mariners (S) (1–0 AET)
Crawford City FC (H) 2–1 Zakhoro Aces (S)


Semifinals Fixtures

Eastweald vs. Real Azuris
@ Fire River Arena (80.000), Ramusok, Ramusok Fief

Everlong FC vs. Crawford City FC
@ Orangi Stadium (61.000), Crawford, Ankortroth Fief

[Cosumar]

Champions' Cup Quarterfinals, First Leg
Cednia Beach AFC (TUR) 0-1 Cassandra City

Cosumar's defending champions take their hard-pressing game to Turori for a chance to do what the national team couldn't: make a semifinal. Their toils in the tropical humidity seem like they will be for naught unti...... WHAT A BIG PLACE FOR COSUMAR LEFT BACK Q'ORIANKA V'AFAJA TO POP UP WITH A RARE GOAL! The Cednian coach will be livid that she was able to get on the wrong side of her marker at the back post to tap home an 86th minute Meier free kick from the left wing. The Reds have a leg up on Isla Sibucic and AFC as they return home.

Globe Cup Quarterfinals, First Leg
Real Azuris 1-1 Krsthaven (SEM)

You'd have to say it was "fair" when Real Azuris finally got their 88th minute equalizer. Krsthaven had the lead on an Edith Tidesson gaffe at the edge of her box despite registering only one other shot on-target. Still, Luis Varezzi won't be pleased with the suspect finishing from his own side -- especially as they go on the road to Semarland for a tightly-balanced second leg.

Series B Champions' Cup Quarterfinals, First Leg
Fevelo Colony 1-3 Usmer (EUR)

Fevelians are already dreaming of the SBCC semifinals 26 minutes in after Connor Morbrand crashes into the box for a headed goal over the back of a defender to make it 1-0. Unfortunately, the dreams don't last long. Usmer equalize four minutes later, and go on to dominate the second half en route to a convincing 3-1 away win.

Härlighet Ligan Matchday 27

Cassandra City 2–0 FC Kaldukosic
de Sájajo 59', Zeale-Riddick 73'

Crawford City FC 3–0 Ramusok United
Valfar 24', Klein 29', Danko 90+2'

Fevelo Colony 0–0 Olask Islanders

FC Samotath 0–1 Treftadaeth Alliance
Almeida 64'

AC Holmenkollen 1–2 Pelethas United
Romo 56' | Alotic 70', Na'Bukanm 80'

Real Azuris 3–0 Klyde
Arrowsword 67', Sigurjonsdottir 70' 90'

Eastweald 1–2 Keenan Athletic
Kortuufa 33' | Spisic 51', Woodwind 63'

Samaj FC 1–2 OAS Royal FC
Whitecastle 69' | Møller 35', Marsteller 63'

Goldstaff City 3–5 Mallox
Jelic 21', Jones 25', Özturk 81' | Riordan 7', Masatoshi 10', Benjamin 27', Riordan 55', Siorrha'Asione 60'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Fresh on the heels of overtaking Eastweald for the top spot last weekend, Crawford City FC cruise past Ramusok United to rip open a four-point lead. And Alexander Kárpáty isn't even playing the best he can for them yet! If the rest of the league wasn't already very, very afraid, now is probably a good time to feel fear of Amethyst Fegelein's teal and gold machine as well as what Kárpáty can do if he get a little more in-sync with the brilliant players around him. Chimera Moxham is starting to really sparkle, Kim Coultan has a spring in her step with a lighter minutes load, and young Marigold Belladonna has really come along this season to fill in the gaps. As for Eastweald? This one will sting for Theresa Riether. At home against Keenan Athletic, her team clearly felt CCFC's pressure on their backs, causing them to cough up a 1-0 lead in the second half. Riether did little to mask her annoyance at having to shake the hand of junior countrywoman Matilda Heisenberg as the losing party. Can they respond, or is the title slipping away from them? Elsewhere, Real Azuris delight Estadio MasseMord with a comprehensive schooling of derbymates Klyde FC to take all six points from them this season, FC Samotath's woes worsen as they commit the local sacrilege of failing to score even a single goal at home and THEN gift-wrap a winner to rivals Alliance with a bad giveaway, and, down south, Charlie Alotic just quietly keeps scoring for Pelethas.




Champions' Cup Quarterfinals, Second Leg
Cassandra City 0-0 Cednia Beach AFC
Cassandra City advance 1-0 on aggregate

0-0? This wasn't what Cassandrans had in mind when they bought tickets for a high-stakes match featuring prominent Vanquishers Vega Zeale-Riddick and Isla Sibucic going head-to-head. But they'll take it. VZR hasn't been quite as prolific this season (though her 16 goals still aren't anything to sneeze at), but the Reds' is making up the difference where possible. Calogero Metz remains as reliable as ever in goal, Va'Afaja and Vivas make one of the best fullback pairings in the league, and young centre-half prospect Lohani Riiyaw stepped in for his first Champions' Cup start this week and did a massive job.

Globe Cup Quarterfinals, Second Leg
Krsthaven 2-1 Real Azuris
Real Azuris eliminated 3-2 on aggregate

Real Azuris had real aspirations of winning the Globe Cup, even tweeting out an empty space in their silverware cabinet between the Champions' Cup and Cyngus Cup trophies. Despite what you might hear from certain figures high up in the administration, it's not the referees who held back the six-time champions in Semarland. They were just too sloppy on the road, though when things are already going frustrating, big decisions like the handball (or not?) on Semyon Yucob that let to Krsthaven's second goal can feel all the more grievous.

Series B Champions' Cup Quarterfinals, Second Leg
Usmer 4-1 Fevelo Colony
Fevelo Colony eliminated 7-2 on aggregate

Fevelo Colony have had a hard enough season. Let's spare them the blushes of delving into their trip to Eura and simply recognize the milestone feat of representing the space colonies in a UICA Quarterfinal.

Härlighet Ligan Matchday 28

FC Kaldukosic 3–1 Goldstaff City
Nisa 30', Ekeh 64', T. Flaksenhaar 88' | Glidewing 17'

Mallox 3–0 Samaj FC
Bruyne 23', Riordan 50', Hjelmgaard 90+4'

OAS Royal FC 1–2 Eastweald
Marsteller 49' | Hopkins 5', Bond 18'

Keenan Athletic 2–3 Real Azuris
Cirvante 10', Sade 64' | Sigurjonsdottir 47', Arrowsword 74', Benedict 90+3'

Klyde 2–0 AC Holmenkollen
Butterworth 17', Tarashaj 42'

Pelethas United 2–3 FC Samotath
Grennan 45+1', Alotic 79' | Silvestri 15', Skipwith 23', Silvestri 49'

Treftadaeth Alliance 4–2 Fevelo Colony
Teijeiro 22', Miller 29', Robitaille 41', Morten 90+4' | Odóma 54' 78'

Olask Islanders 0–3 Crawford City FC
Moxham 50', Modrich 59', Coultan 71'

Ramusok United 4–2 Cassandra City
Luminesce 6', Arrowsmith 61', Luminesce 75', Arrowsmith 78' | Zeale-Riddick 80' 87'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: As always, Ramusok United vs. Cassandra City had the vibe of a rivalry game, remnants of the Millennium Miracle, with a tight and tense first hour-plus giving way to a wild finish. With their second goals of the match, respectively, within minutes of each other, Equestrian and Apox internationals Luminesce and Arrowsmith looked to have set United on course for a surprising blowout scoreline. But give Cassandra credit: they launched into a valiant comeback effort despite being 4-0 down. In the final ten minutes, Vega Zeale-Riddick slotted home twice. The Blues used everything they had (including some luck) to hold on for the win, as VZR also struck both uprights in stoppage time. Perhaps inspired by his taller and more glamorous countrywoman, Fevelo Colony's Domé Odóma also tried his best to haul his team back from behind with a pair of goals on the road. The teenage striker is looking increasingly comfortable at this level - just about the only thing that has gone right for the Cavedwellers this season. So much so that there might be demand for his services elsewhere in the HL after Colony (presumably) go down. His pace is unteachable and he has a knack for using it to pop up in dangerous areas. But, alas, Paaron Petrov's defense lacks that same pace and repeatedly got burned in wide areas by Treftadaeth Alliance's overlapping combination of Baldomero Teijeiro and Toussaint Robitaille down the left. The only chance of survival for Fevelo - and Goldstaff City - is to catch FC Samotath for that Relegation Playoff place in 16th. However, those hopes were both dashed this week by Santo Silvestri - yet another striker with a brace - clawing Samo a hard-fought three points at the Xanadu Dome.

Härlighet Ligan Matchday 29

Ramusok United 0–1 FC Kaldukosic
Bengochea 11'

Cassandra City 4–1 Olask Islanders
Sonar Amethyst 47', Zeale-Riddick 51' 75', de Sájajo 90+1' | Irwin 11'

Crawford City FC 1–1 Treftadaeth Alliance
Klein 18' | Teijeiro 16'

Fevelo Colony 1–0 Pelethas United
Kemény 18'

FC Samotath 1–2 Klyde
Navarro 12' | Turner 44' 81'

AC Holmenkollen 3–3 Keenan Athletic
Jaeger 1', Mirzayev 2', Romo 62' | Arieli 7', Sade 22' 75'

Real Azuris 3–1 OAS Royal FC
Akarenaa 32', Antúnes 42', Benedict 65' | Di Sansev 11'

Eastweald 6–3 Mallox
der Pros 12, Bond 35 42, Velasquez 53, Bond 56, Velasquez 87 | Emery 18', Riordan 20' 44'

Samaj FC 2–1 Goldstaff City
Totorikagoena 34', Földessy 39' | Özturk 49'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Mallox took their best swing at title hopefuls Eastweald in a thrilling nighttime Weald Classic but came up short on firepower. CCFC being held to a point by Trefta in the preceding fixture that afternoon just provided Eastweald too much motivation for the west Wealders to handle. What was 3-3 at the half turned to 6-3 in the second. Brian Bond struck for a hat trick (I'm not sure there's anyone in the HL who looks more dangerous than him with the ball right now) and veteran Llamanean winger Eva Velasquez rotated in for her first start this season on the opposite wing and benefited from Bond's gravitational pull to turn in two blast-from-the-past goals herself! All nostalgic smiles at Old Weldenskirgen. On the plus-side for Mallox, Griffin Riordan's remarkable "Comeback Player of the Year"-type season continued in earnest with another two goals, separating her further in the Golden Boot race at nearly a goal-per-game. With her fighting spirit, hold-up play and confident simple finishes, she's everything the Tigers need in their #9. Have the Mallox broadcasters tired of the phrase "Masatoshi to Riordan!" yet?

Elsewhere, it's a week for crucial goals by teenagers. Cathal Turner hasn't been the unbridled success he was universally expected to be in his first season as "the guy" out on Klyde Isle (a disappointment underscored on a weekly basis by the rampant success predecessor Riordan following her move to Mallox), but he showed his resiliency this week with a thundering volley and composed penalty to give Corey Simmons Jr.'s project a confidence-boosting road win at FC Samotath. That result opened a window for Fevelo Colony to close the gap behind Samo in 16th, and it was a teenager (and a 16-year-old at that) in Krisztian Kemény who propelled them through it with a running blast into the roof of the net. Why there were such huge gaps in the Pelethas back line, I have no idea. That's none of Kemény's concern. Finally, Pasargan teen Szalyk Földessy (hard to believe she's still a teen with the way she terrorizes HL midfields) made the late run to score the eventual winner for Samaj. No Va'Lepeh, no Sigurjonsdottir, no Del Arro? No problem. Why did we ever doubt Samaj's ability to turn over another new leaf with Johannes Lundblade's steady hand at the helm? Cherry Whitecastle in particular looked like a real gem in this game as well. Flashing the game-changing form she displayed in the Cup of Harmony for Kita-Hinode, she made a great run and assist on Iker Totorikagoena's opener and probably should've had a hat trick of assists by the end of the game.



Cygnus Cup Semifinals, First Leg
Revanigruud Riversharks 1-0 Longgeylin Coast (VIL)

No. Fucking. Way. Enormous underdogs Revanigruud do it again - taking down another prestigious foreign opponent with just the right mix of luck, plucky defending and opportunistic finishing on the counter. Can they finish the job in Vilita and get all the way to an international final that was unthinkable for an offworld club that was nearly relegated to the Tredje Ligan last season?

AOCL Semifinals, First Leg
Mâ Âlâmëómë (FFD) 1-0 Cassandra City

It's the inverse scoreline down in Farfadillis as legendary Cosumarite left back Bacary Na'Kale curls one in after cutting in from the left against his boyhood team. Arturo Mancini would've liked to have gotten an away goal at least, but this one is far from over.

Härlighet Ligan Matchday 30

FC Kaldukosic 0–3 Samaj FC
Jurevicius 1', Møller 3', Jakoljevic 23'

Goldstaff City 1–5 Eastweald
Silfverberg 20' | Bond 14', Kovačević 32', Thatch 45', Haalogalsson 52', Tali'raia 63'

Mallox 3–1 Real Azuris
Siorrha'Asione 48', Emery 50', Masatoshi 85' | Antúnes 40'

OAS Royal FC 3–6 AC Holmenkollen
Marsteller 16' 40', Koclanes 61' | Riprov 26', Jaeger 28', Riprov 36', Jaeger 37', Kolomainen 77', Riprov 88'

Keenan Athletic 2–1 FC Samotath
Waz 75, Spisic 90+2' | Bermond 83'

Klyde 3–3 Fevelo Colony
Tarashaj 7', Turner 27', Gandhi 74' | Kocsis 28', Odóma 53', Ardanova 70'

Pelethas United 4–2 Crawford City FC
Alotic 1' 38', Crowley 70', Kåsa 76' | Klein 17', Kárpáty 34'

Treftadaeth Alliance 4–3 Cassandra City
Maloney 17', Almeida 61', Robitaille 78', Perrodien 89' | Vivas 52', Sonar Amethyst 54', Meier 82'

Olask Islanders 0–1 Ramusok United
Jago 48'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Catherine Sedgwick publicly shames her team for being second-best on Fevelo last week, refusing to reach for the "hostile offworld conditions" excuse that many managers have. And the Miners respond! Against Crawford! Just 19 seconds in, Charlie Alotic knives between Mario Modrich and Bloodblade to nod Mia Grennan's swinging cross under Hansi Weschler. Lots of pleasantly surprised faces in Pelethas! Normalcy seemed to be restored when Klein & Kárpáty both got on the scoresheet (somewhat fortuitously) to give the league leaders a 2-1 advantage, but the Mercedini international Alotic struck again before half time with a deft first-time side-foot finish off Gudrun Crowley's diagonal through ball. Sedgwick seemed to will Pelethas to victory in the second half, clapping and cheering loudly from the touchline until Crowley and Kåsa eventually tethered consecutive screamers in to elevate them within three points of the UICA zone. Main beneficiaries? Eastweald, who make mincemeat of Goldstaff City. They're hunters on the prowl, and the Guardians are the sickly straggler of the HL herd -- easy pickings. Replacing Diego Bandos with Anders Videfors hasn't made much of a difference in Goldstaff. Five different Eastwealders stamp their name on the scoresheet and it could've been more. That's eleven goals in the last two matches as they reclaim a one-point lead over CCFC...

Yet the most goals of this weekend's set of matches are scored by... AC Holmenkollen?? We all know Curtis Théberge's boys and girls can play some pretty stuff, but no one foresaw SIX going past Aswad Munif Shalhoub when they took to the Crowley Memorial pitch for a Ramusok derby. Syl Denhardt simply had no answers for Mathilda Jaeger. The unheralded Nepharim has been one of the canny signings of the season. She added two assists in this one, displaying her silky playmaking between the lines that fits Théberge's system so well, and also showed she can finish chances with two goals of her own.

1 Eastweald              30   20   8   2    76   39  +37    68
 2 Crawford City FC       30   21   4   5    78   48  +30    67

Cygnus Cup Semifinals, Second Leg
Longgeylin Coast 0-0 Revanigruud Riversharks
Revanigruud advance 1-0 on aggregate

It required two penalty saves, two shots off the crossbar and an additional four saves by the Riversharks' goalkeeper, but they did it. They held on in Vilita, one of the multiverse's most football-mad countries, for a berth to the Cygnus Cup Final. This is Staropoli Street stuff... can you smell the pixie dust?

AOCL Semifinals, Second Leg
Cassandra City 2-0 Mâ Âlâmëómë
Cassandra City advance 2-1 on aggregate

Cassandra City are triumphant in their semifinal too. Serafino and Gargo get goals in each half and Metz gets a clean sheet against his Rulandese countrymen for a chance to win yet another trophy for his club.

Härlighet Ligan Matchday 31

Olask Islanders 0–2 FC Kaldukosic
Nisa 13', Teika 18'

Ramusok United 2–2 Treftadaeth Alliance
Wheeler 24', Luminesce 90+3' | Morten 48', Perrodien 70'

Cassandra City 1–0 Pelethas United
de Sajájo 90'

Crawford City FC 2–2 Klyde
Klein 22', Belladonna 90' | Gandhi 27', Turner 83'

Fevelo Colony 2–4 Keenan Athletic
Ardanova 4', Morbrand 17' | Sade 37', Flare Eclipse 63', Cirvante 73' 82'

FC Samotath 2–3 OAS Royal FC
Bermond 38', Navarro 68' | Hanger 28', Coffey 59', Koclanes 86'

AC Holmenkollen 2–1 Mallox
Riprov 35' 40' | Sjunitsson 14'

Real Azuris 1–0 Goldstaff City
A. Tidesson 66'

Eastweald 0–0 Samaj FC

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Euurrk. Tough scenes as the cameras pan to the dejected fans in Olask as Antra Teika scores and celebrates FC Kaldukosic's early 2-0 lead at Kamu Road. The magic of the first half of the season is a distant memory. The Islanders are winless in nine and have only scored one goal in the last month-plus. Maia Abylon continues to be a revelation and a force in Collete Sade's midfield, but just about everybody else has gone ice-cold. Remember when we were discussing them as dark horse Champions' Cup candidates? Ha. Ha. Ha. With an outside shot at taking up that mantle now is Keenan Athletic. Okay, Champions' Cup is probably a bridge too for the Bobs even if they win out, but Globe Cup is a definite possibility. They've built positive momentum towards the finish line and it was on full display at Fevelo Field this weekend. They didn't even flinch when Connor Morbrand's flukey penalty put them down 2-0 within 20 minutes, going on to patiently pass the legs out of Fevelo and then punish them with three second half goals. Lethe Cirvante and Elodie Sade were instrumental in both departments.

While the title race did not progress this week (both CCFC and Eastweald drew - the former leaving it late!), there were other significant results in the UICA shuffle. Lojes de Sajájo's spectacular winner moved Cassandra City into the top four (reprising their Champions' Cup place was the minimum expectation for the defending champions this season), while Real Azuris clinched 3rd place and their own berth in that competition by outlasting a stubborn Goldstaff City who were clearly trying to prove a point. Mallox saw their own Champions' Cup hopes take a step back, the latest victim of Lili "five goals in the last two matches" Riprov and in-form AC Holmenkollen. The two bigger Ramusok clubs, meanwhile, continue to beat tussle back-and-forth for Globe Cup placement, Royal gaining ground this week by virtue of playing utterly confused FC Samotath. Šimon Holguín will surely resign after the season regardless of whether he keeps the Black Hawks up or not.

1 Eastweald              31   20   9   2    76   39  +37    69
 2 Crawford City FC       31   21   5   5    80   50  +30    68

3 Real Azuris            31   19   6   6    82   51  +31    63 CC
 4 Cassandra City         31   15   6  10    70   52  +18    51 CC

5 Mallox                 31   15   5  11    70   66   +4    50 GC
 6 Ramusok United         31   15   4  12    59   61   −2    49 GC
 7 OAS Royal FC           31   14   6  11    69   59  +10    48 GC
 8 Keenan Athletic        31   13   5  13    62   62    0    44
 9 Pelethas United        31   12   6  13    62   62    0    42
10 Treftadaeth Alliance   31   11   9  11    50   56   −6    42

Champions' Cup Semifinal, First Leg
Cassandra City 2-0 Sabrefell Moths (NPH)

Hooooo boy. Going in, this was the most hyped match of the season thus far on Cosumarite TV. Public darling Sur Arora returning with a star-studded Moths side in tow to take on the record-setting champions from his home league? Who wouldn't tune in? The Nepharim fans travel well and there's a green haze in the stadium from their flares, but Cassandra is up for the challenge - both in the stands and on the pitch. It takes everyone in red making at least one big play each (and perhaps a spot of help from the referee on VZR's penalty), but they're able to make it to the midway point of the tie with a lead and no away goals conceded. That's capital-b BIG. The parties last long into the morning in the capital of Cosumarite hedonism, with Bellerophon Serafino the toast of the night for his scintillating opening goal. Better be wary though - Arora has more than enough quality at his disposal to turn the tables on them in the second leg.

Härlighet Ligan Matchday 32

FC Kaldukosic 0–0 Eastweald

Samaj FC 1–1 Real Azuris
Jurevicius 84' | A. Tidesson 20'

Goldstaff City 1–3 AC Holmenkollen
Özturk 79' | T. Tidesson 25', Mirzayev 63', Grandstaber 67'

Mallox 1–0 FC Samotath
Siorrha'Asione 13'

OAS Royal FC 2–2 Fevelo Colony
Møller 14', Kahara 90+1' | Solignac 62', Keldian 65'

Keenan Athletic 4–4 Crawford City FC
Spisic 27' 41', Sade 53', Frederick 57' | S. Arrowsword 32', Kárpáty 49', MacArthur 69', Moxham 90+2'

Klyde 1–0 Cassandra City
Turner 84'

Pelethas United 7–2 Ramusok United
Tarrant 15', Montelius 22', Lingxin 28', Greenchurch 43', Aspenwood 48', Miettinen 67', Alotic 85' | Luminesce 6', Carr-Ponce 74'

Treftadaeth Alliance 0–2 Olask Islanders
Tzyzakoos 35', Scafidis 90'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Eastweald's one-point lead is maintained despite being unable to break down FC Kaldukosic at Leviathan Arena. The players visibly breathe sighs of relief after the final whistle when they learn that Crawford City FC also drew their match in Keenan. Although they may be less fond of the result when they learn that Keenan Athletic actually led that match 4-2 and see the highlight of Rusalka Klein's perfectly weighted long ball that Moxham chested down and poked home in stoppage time. Even if it was only to pull back a point, those type of dramatic moments can galvanize a team. Neither title contender has an easy schedule remaining. Eastweald travel to Azuris and then face obvious potential banana peel AC Holmenkollen on championship sunday. In their quest to make up two points, CCFC will have to field OAS Royal at home and then go on the road to Mallox's Orange Palace for their final battle. It's gonna come down to the last...

Elsewhere, Pelethas United look awfully convincing as their push for a Globe Cup place takes shape, running Ramusok United off the pitch 7-2 to close within four points of the Blues. Young midfield duo Hestia Greenchurch and Jakki Montelius got the nod from Sedgwick and were excellent. Jock Sonny built this Ram U team under the philosophy of winning their individual battles all over the pitch, but they didn't win a single one on this afternoon. The Schottic legend pledged to leave United as a UICA club again, but for the first time all season it looks like his ability to deliver that might be in doubt. Their confidence will be in crisis after a 7-2 and Pelethas and Keenan Athletic both eager to displace them in 7th. Cathal Turner also continued his late-season scoring surge, stunning Cassandra City with an 84th minute winner through the legs of Diedrich Frostmarris. Klyde's 1-0 win allows Mallox to reclaim the Champions' Cup place the Reds usurped last week.

At the bottom, Goldstaff City are the first to be officially relegated. They barely acknowledge the occurrence as AC Holmenkollen waltz into Bostitch Lane and move the ball around so much faster than the Guardians can keep up. It had already been a foregone conclusion. The bottom three have been locked in for awhile, so now it just comes down to Fevelo Colony and FC Samotath for that playoff spot (16th). Samo would be one of the more shocking relegations in recent memory, especially with fellow Samotath-based club FC Ziemelu Skaida pushing for their first ever HL promotion right now in Sekundar Ligan. Might the balance of power in the northern city be shifting?

1 Eastweald              32   20  10   2    76   39  +37    70
 2 Crawford City FC       32   21   6   5    84   54  +30    69

4 Mallox                 32   16   5  11    71   66   +5    53 CC
 5 Cassandra City         32   15   6  11    70   53  +17    51 GC
 6 OAS Royal FC           32   14   7  11    71   61  +10    49  GC
 7 Ramusok United         32   15   4  13    61   68   −7    49 GC
 8 Pelethas United        32   13   6  13    69   64   +5    45
 9 Keenan Athletic        32   13   6  13    66   66    0    45

16 FC Samotath            33    7   7  19    65   79  −14    28 RPO
17 Fevelo Colony          33    6   6  21    43   80  −37    24

Champions' Cup Semifinals, Second Leg
Sabrefell Moths 0-0 Cassandra CIty
Cassandra City advance 2-0 on aggregate

The second leg doesn't live up to the entertainment of the first, as both teams look a little tired at the end of their seasons. The Moths have more of the chances with Cassandra City content to sit back and give up one but not two. Metz, as always, delivers in the clutch and they don't give up any. On to the biggest stage in the domestic game! The dream scenario for the next two weeks for Cassandra City fans is to edge Mallox for 4th so that the players don't have the added pressure of winning the CC Final just to qualify for the next edition...... and then win it anyways.

Härlighet Ligan Matchday 33

Treftadaeth Alliance 0–0 FC Kaldukosic

Olask Islanders 0–2 Pelethas United
Tarrant 24', Montelius 47'

Ramusok United 0–0 Klyde

Cassandra City 3–0 Keenan Athletic
Zeale-Riddick 12' 51' 79'

Crawford City FC 3–2 OAS Royal FC
Knych 8', Kárpáty 30', Moxham 81' | Marsteller 47', Koclanes 78'

Fevelo Colony 2–1 Mallox
Odóma 60', Benedek 86' | Corsair Gust 40'

FC Samotath 4–2 Goldstaff City
Fietsam 8', Guss 32', Silanii 34', Silvestri 62' | Bannion 45+1' 80'

AC Holmenkollen 0–0 Samaj FC

Real Azuris 3–2 Eastweald
Antúnes 20', Sigurjonsdottir 23', Bi. Tidesson 73' | Myren 57', de Marisco 61'

TOP TAKEAWAYS: It's the penultimate weekend and a pair of 3-2 winners dominate the headlines (which wasn't hard on a matchday with three scoreless draws). First: Moxham's attacking midfield mentor and - in this case - partner, Coultan, finds her in space with a beautiful pass that breaks Ellie Hanger's ankles. The Nepharim attacker, in peak form at the moment, flicks it out in front of herself in stride (but not too far for Shalhoub to bother it) and then smashes it past the stranded goalkeeper in the 81st minute. That's three points to CCFC. ...And you'll never guess who played spoiler in the other. None other than the black sheep of the Tidesson family. Four days after a photo of her snorting coke in a club on a fucking Tuesday graced Azuris tabloids, Birgid subs on at the hour mark following Eastweald's 2-2 equalizer. And drives a stake through their hearts. In the form of a wonderfully random straight blast from 35 yards. It doesn't bend at all - just knuckles at the last second, causing Mercator to misjudge it and let it bounce past her into the net. The Azurian crowd is eating this shit up, and Birgid sardonically bows to Mercator and each stand twice. The Wood Elves didn't appreciate the gesture, Mercator calling it "juvenile and disrespectful", but they weren't able to deliver payback on the other end, Edith Tidesson doing what Mercator didn't and locking shit down. That's three points... not to Eastweald. In a crucial swap going into the final matchday, they now trail Crawford City FC by two points. Will CCFC be thanking Birgid Tidesson (and Moxham, I guess) for their trophy next week?

Meanwhile, Fevelo Colony put it all on the line to keep their season alive. And like Paaron Petrov's job, bless his shiny bald head. After a dismal first half at home against Mallox that had the Fevelian support booing and accusing their team of giving up, they storm back in the second! Local youth - the silver lining of their season - supplied both goals. You couldn't imagine a more cathartic moment for 18-year-old Annuska Benedek to score her first senior goal than in the 86th minute to deliver salvation in the form of a 2-1 win! She jumped into the rapid celebrations of the supporters' wall with the ball, disappeared for a few scary seconds, and then emerged again without it. Tsk tsk to the fan who stole her match ball! But, in the end, it didn't even matter. FC Samotath won their match later that night to relegate Colony anyways. Oh. Well, it mattered for Cassandra City, at least. With Mallox losing, Vega Zeale-Riddick feasted on Keenan Athletic's open style of play to bag a casual hat trick, rocketing herself a few places up the goalscoring charts and Cassandra back into the fourth CC spot.

1 Crawford City FC       33   22   6   5    87   56  +31    72
 2 Eastweald              33   20  10   3    78   42  +36    70

4 Cassandra City         33   16   6  11    73   53  +20    54  CC
 5 Mallox                 33   16   5  12    72   68   +4    53  GC
 6 Ramusok United         33   15   5  13    61   68   −7    50  GC
 7 OAS Royal FC           33   14   7  12    73   64   +9    49  GC
 8 Pelethas United        33   14   6  13    71   64   +7    48

The bottom has settled. It's all about that title race and the UICA scramble. Crawford City control their fate - a win will win the league. But if they even draw, Eastweald can swoop in and take it with a win due to their superior goal difference.

The Globe Cup places are a total clusterfuck. The top eight have separated themselves but, unfortunately, one of them won't get the join the other seven in international play. Will it be Pelethas or one of the two Ramusok giants left behind? Royal have the hardest path, welcoming an increasingly in-form Cassandra City looking to nail down their own CC place. United and Pelethas get to play Athletic and Alliance. Feisty competitors this year, sure, but hardly Cassandra City-caliber opponents.

Härlighet Ligan Matchday 34

FC Kaldukosic 1–1 Real Azuris
Nisa 20' | Arrowsword 27'

Eastweald 2–1 AC Holmenkollen
de Marisco 35', Bond 90+1' | Živković 88'

Samaj FC 0–0 FC Samotath

Goldstaff City 4–1 Fevelo Colony
Jones 21', Glidewing 40', Va'Naathra 63', Blazek 73' | Odóma 67'

Mallox 0–3 Crawford City FC
Moxham 17', Alcouin 21', S. Arrowsword 50'

OAS Royal FC 2–2 Cassandra City
Marsteller 49' 77' | Zeale-Riddick 26', de Sajájo 33'

Keenan Athletic 0–1 Ramusok United
Arrowsmith 57'

Klyde 3–3 Olask Islanders
Fierro 1', Kvalderkorr 2', Abbasi-Fevison 20' | Way 44', Irwin 56', Tzyzakoos 76'

Pelethas United 3–0 Treftadaeth Alliance
Alotic 17', Kåsa 35', Cyn-Penzag 74'

Nine games start simultaneously at noon on Championship Sund-- oop! Klyde are already winning. Wait, it's TWO to zero already? Well, doesn't matter, we already knew the Islanders never bothered returning from midseason break. To the games that matter!

Crawford City FC draw first blood in the title race, Moxham shimmying past countryman Bruyne with a sick stop-start before cutting it back to the near post in the 17th minute. Four minutes later, Hannah Alcouin - the original harbinger of CCFC's new ownership's true ambitions - mercilessly bolts a Mallox missed clearance into the back of the net. 2-0. The Orange Palace deflates, but their disappointment was nothing compared to the reaction on the other side of the Weald as news of the Elephants' early lead trickled in through smart devices at Old Weldenskirgen. Groans could be heard 'round the Eastweald grounds as that 21st minute goal popped up on everybody's screens, even as the action on the pitch was innocuous as a Somuele der Pros backpass to Samuel Hopkins. The Elves didn't know the specifics, but they knew damn well what it meant. Sensing the crowd's restlessness, they dial up the urgency of their tiki-taka passing a notch and secure a goal of their own in the 35th minute after Ishtar Fanaiyan's is "brought down" by naïve young left back Sappington, who left his leg sticking out for her trip over. In likely her final game, 15-year Apoxian-Cosumarite club veteran Jo de Marisco steps up and puts an unstoppable penalty in the top corner. Unfortunately, she doesn't get to ride off into the sunset having delivered Eastweald her second title as the winning-goalscorer. Firstly because Holmenkollen would equalize and force Bond to score another "winner" in stoppage time, but also mainly because Crawford City FC put their foot down in Mallox and, from the first whistle, just never looked like they were going to do anything BUT win that game. Especially not after Sarah Arrowsword "rose up" (being generous to marker Broxham, who is easily a foot shorter) and eased Farrow's corner inside the far post with the top of hear head in the 50th minute. 3-0. That was the moment that erased all doubt that Crawford City FC are your 1015 Härlighet Ligan Champions!

Rough-and-tumble Malloxites don't make for accommodating hosts to their on-pitch celebrations, but the teal-and-gold care not! The small pocket of away supporters that came all the way from the southwest are having the best moments of their life in the orange seats, despite the beer and jeers raining down upon them from higher levels. Boos also rain down from all around on Alexander Kárpáty, who switched from Mallox in the summer, when he takes the liberty of raising celebratory fists towards the dancing away support. Far more cordially, Kennedy Kopenhaver and Amethyst Fegelein shake hands. Eventually, the CCFC squad gathers at center-pitch for the traditional final matchday trophy-raising. But none of the grins on the players' faces could compare to the sheer pride and weary happiness emanating from Fegelein. It was Mission Accomplished. This was what she came to Crawford for five years ago - before the club had a Champions' Cup appearance to its name - and had been building towards all the time since. Ladies and gentlemen, Starling was no fluke.

Elsewhere, Goldstaff City smite fellow-relegated side Fevelo with four goals in their HL death throes, doubt is cast over whether Syl Denhardt will be back for OAS Royal next year after they miss the UICA cut (despite Marsteller dragging them back from two down in the second half), and the Olask Islanders - to their credit - also end up recovering from their 2nd minute two-goal deficit. They pick up a 3-3 point at The Klyde Sportsplex, showing a spot of fight for Collete Sade to end their up-and-down season on an ultimately positive note.





47TH CUP WINNERS' CUP - FINAL
@ Exhibition Place, Kirkenes, Kelssek

The Riversharks seemed on their way to the shock victory to top all their prior shock victories in the 26th minute when star striker "Typhoon Tegsune" boxed out Cosumarite defender Thomas Uribe basketball-style in the box to get positioning and thump a flat-footed header, with a snap of his neck, through the fingers of Mathis Woodgate. It wouldn't be until after a half time of fevered speculation that sanity would be restored in Kelssek. With his equalizer to ensure Spartangrad extra time and eventual dagger therein, James Palmisano showed why he was the best player on the pitch and one of the top midfielders in the Multiverse. Spartangrad are deserved winners of the Cygnus trophy, but that doesn't stop most neutral observers from being a disappointed that the tournament's greatest fairy tale in recent memory didn't get its fairy tale ending.

Spartangrad 1-1 (3-1 AET) Revanigruud Riversharks
Tegsune Na'Japuna 26'
James Palmisano 53'
Rigby Headley 116'
James Palmisano 120+1'




ATLANTIAN OCEANIA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE XXXI - FINAL
@ The Battleground, Raynor City, Valanora

This one will probably me remembered as a modern AOCL classic. End-to-end stuff with some high-quality goals by notable internationals. Of course, we're partial to Isla's skyward chip, though the 39-pass build-up to Cassandra City's opener was also delicious. The match was even complete with unbelievable stoppage time drama, Chromatika star Meagan Kelly stepping up to the penalty spot to win the regional title for the V-League club. A VAR review cruelly determined that de Sajájo, Cassandra's most dangerous player throughout the match, had in fact deflected a Sibučić shot with an elbow away from his body. But it's okay. This isn't the one the Reds really want...

Cassandra City 2-3 Cednia Beach AFC
Lojes de Sajájo 15'
Koren Udowu 21'
Isla Sibučić 57'
Scheherazade Meier 73'
Meagan Kelly 90+3'




72ND UICA CHAMPIONS' CUP - FINAL
@ The 66 Stadium, Cathair, Audioslavia

The grand finale of the multiverse's domestic cycle... and Cosumarite fans are privileged once again to watch some of our own go for the glory. Even the most blue-blooded Ramusok United fans are probably grudgingly rooting for the Reds here. But it's to no avail. Twice RGS Athletic take a lead and twice Cassandra City answer through their attacking prowess from out wide. However, unsung Nepharim goalkeeper Petratos ends up going berserk in the penalty shootout, stopping countrywoman and would-be hero Scheherazade Meier, and then Vega Zeale-Riddick, AND THEN Bellerophon Serafino. Calogero Metz? Despite his luminary status, he couldn't keep up in one of the biggest moments of his career. The shootout was over in three frames. RGS Athletic, the pride of all Eastfielders today, are the surprise champions of all champions! Eastfield Lodge will never win a World Cup for all eternity, as we all know, so this could very well be the peak of the nation's long footballing history.

Cassandra City 1-1 (2-2 AET) (0-3 pen.) RGS Athletic
Ursula Rankin 34'
Charles Dyer Vry 70'
Elouan Elbaz 110'
Scheherazade Meier 113'

---

---

The trio of CCFC, Eastweald and Real Azuris were the class of the league this year, although Cassandra City matched them in the second half of the season to sneak back into the Champions' Cup despite losing the Final. But the top two were elevated a step further by their attacking arsenals that were just that much better than the rest. Moxham-Alcouin-Kárpáty and Fanaiyan-Bond-Kova are fearsome tridents on paper, and arguably translated even better onto the pitch.

Rounding out the UICA places, Pelethas United make their second-ever appearance (big-money project back on track) and Ramusok United return to the multiverse's elite after an absence that was longer than many might realize (Jock Sonny promised, Jock Sonny delivered).

Finally, we wish FC Samotath the best of luck in their upcoming survival playoff...

1015 Härlighet Ligan      Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Crawford City FC       34   23   6   5    90   56  +34    75  Champions/CC
 2  Eastweald              34   21  10   3    80   43  +37    73  CC
 3  Real Azuris            34   20   8   6    87   55  +32    68  CC
 4  Cassandra City         34   16   7  11    75   55  +20    55  CC
 5  Mallox                 34   16   5  13    72   71   +1    53  GC
 6  Ramusok United         34   16   5  13    62   68   −6    53  GC
 7  Pelethas United        34   15   6  13    74   64  +10    51  GC
 8  OAS Royal FC           34   14   8  12    75   66   +9    50
 9  Keenan Athletic        34   13   6  15    66   70   −4    45  VCI
10  Olask Islanders        34   13   6  15    53   64  −11    45
11  Treftadaeth Alliance   34   11  10  13    50   61  −11    43
12  Klyde                  34   11   9  14    66   66    0    42
13  AC Holmenkollen        34    9  14  11    47   51   −4    41
14  Samaj FC               34   11   7  16    36   45   −9    40
15  FC Kaldukosic          34    9  13  12    37   49  −12    40
16  FC Samotath            34    7   8  19    65   79  −14    29  Relegation Playoff
17  Fevelo Colony          34    6   6  22    44   84  −40    24  Relegated
18  Goldstaff City         34    4   8  22    48   80  −32    20  Relegated

Härlighet Ligan XXVII Champions - CRAWFORD CITY FC

PLAYER OF THE YEAR:
1.   AM Chimera Moxham 
2.  CM Rusalka Klein (NPH)
3.  LW Brian Bond (EUR)
4.  RW Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir (PAS)
5.  RW Lojes de Sájajo (FFD)

NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR:
1.   LW Brian Bond
2.  AM Chimera Moxham (NPH)
3.  GK Hesterine Mercator (NPH)
4.  GK Kai Poirier (KSK)
5.  CB Samuel Hopkins (EUR)

U21 PLAYER OF THE YEAR:
1.   AM Chimera Moxham (21)
2.  AM Taka Masatoshi (20, COS)
3.  CF Jagoda Kovačević (21, PAS)
4.  ST Domé Odóma (19, COS)
5.  AM Cherry Whitecastle (21, HIN)

TOP GOAL SCORERS:
27 -   Griffin Riordan 
24 -  Charlie Alotic (MRC)
   -  Vega Zeale-Riddick (COS)
21 -  Brian Bond (EUR)
20 -  Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir (PAS)
19 -  Dinko Spisic (ESH)
   -  Sen Marsteller (COS)
18 -  Elodie Sade (COS)
17 -  Jeremy Benedict (EUR)
16 -  Lojes de Sájajo (FFD)
   -  Chimera Moxham (NPH)
   -  Domé Odóma (COS)
15 -  Alexander Kárpáty (PAS)
   -  Winston Arrowsmith (APX)

The Cosumarite Courier Team of the Season:

GK -  Hesterine Mercator (NPH) 
DF -  Preston Brotherford (BRE)
DF -  Brevin Scott (APX)
DF -  Bloodblade (FPT)
LM -  Brian Bond (EUR)
CM -  Rusalka Klein (NPH)
CM -  Chimera Moxham (NPH)
RM -  Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir (TRI)
ST -  Vega Zeale-Riddick (COS)
ST -  Charlie Alotic (MRC)
ST -  Griffin Riordan (BRE)

Manager of the Year -   Apple Jack

Bench: Vylon - Va'Afaja, Rathskeller, S. Arrowsword, Vivas - Aspenwood, Serafino, Wheeler, Fanaiyan - Kovačević, Kárpáty

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And at the end of each season, the 16th placed Härlighet Ligan club must face a challenge from the 3rd placed Sekundar Ligan club to retain their spot in the league. Here's how it played out this year:

FC Samotath 1-1 (1-1 AET) (1-2 pen.) Stoneshore United
Mako Silanii 49'
Senter Senterekoesima 81'

What a contrast of styles, their diametric opposition to each other highlighted by the high-pressure match. From the otherwordly beauty of the northern peninsula, FC Samotath's ultra-attacking philosophy. From the foggy and dreary tip of the southern peninsula, the hard-nosed defensive philosophy of Stoneshore United...

Ultimately, the Greys are more successful at imprinting their style of football on the game. With nine behind the ball in rigid defensive lines, they're able to largely keep Samotath at bay. Samo don't have the technical quality or creativity to break down such a tightly-packed opponent that won't come out of its shell. You know, until they do. Elegant wingback Senter Senterekoesima, aged like a fine wine, sprints down the left flank on a late last-gasp counter, latches onto a ball over the top from Tychicus, cuts inside and picks out the top corner. 1-1!

FC Samotath come agonizingly close to a winner in extra time, but Santo Silvestri's gold-tinged chance is cleared off the line (and then the post) by, you guessed it, Senter-squared. The eventual shootout turns into a showdown of veteran goalkeepers, Stoneshore's 35-year-old Sekundar Ligan joureyman John-Arnold Dane and Samotath's 34-year-old ex-Ritter Town goalie Simon Ardley. Both are constantly wringing their hands to get rid of the shakes (a lot of dollars and jobs depending on each kick) but come up with the goods time after time. Eventually, after a Dane save on Interrobang Bermond, veteran Audioslavian winger Ali Carra steps up for Stoneshore United and passes his penalty coolly into the side-netting. Utter pandemonium ensues...

And, just like that, the number of original HL clubs to have never been relegated dropped from seven to six.

Fortunately, the rest of the league won't be without a Samotath away trip. The city's second club, FC Ziemelu Skaida, is coming up for the first time. Or, is FC Samotath the "second club" now? Hrmmm. Bizarre times up north.

will compete in the 1016 Härlighet Ligan at the expense of

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Semifinals

Semifinal locations randomly drawn from pool of eligible venues; King's Cup Final always hosted in Ramusok Royal District (OAS).

 Eastweald 1-3 Real Azuris 
@ Alesund Stadion (60.000), Samotath, Parougan Fief

It's a great match-up, but it doesn't end up being a great game. Locked into 3rd at the time of playing, Real Azuris are able to fully concentrate on the Cup. In the thick of a neck-and-neck title race, Eastweald roll out a B squad and hope for the best. They don't get the best. Hidalgo Antúnes, Jeremy Benedict and a novelty Chandler Clorfeine goal put them behind 3-0 by the hour mark, and not even the insertion of their big guns for the last 20 minutes is enough to turn the tide all the way. Real Azuris march on to their eighth King's Cup Final in seventeen editions, easily a record.

 Everlong 0-2 Crawford City FC 
@ Estadio MasseMord (50.000), Azuris, South Klyde Fief

What a great opportunity for the CCFC youth to come in and show what they can do on a big stage. Everlong aren't exactly stalwarts of the Tredje Ligan, but still, it's a national semifinal. They play pretty well, if a bit lacking in that killer instinct. The junior Elephants dominate possession and chances, sending wave after wave at the Everlong goal, but they are just a little too hesitant in their decisions in the final third to break through. It looked for the life of everyone involved that this was headed for an uncomfortable extra time when the assistant referee held up the sign for five additional minutes in the 90th with the score still 0-0. But then, it finally came! The goal they'd been laboring for. In the 91st minute, local Crawford lass Mari Belladonna playing a neat one-two with Guifré Mosquera and pummeling the ball in off the far post. That was all they needed, although Mosquera would get his own in the fourth minute of stoppage time, arcing straight through the Everlong defense with surgical dribbling precision and nonchalantly rippling the back of the net.

17th KING'S CUP FINAL

REAL AZURIS 1-0 CRAWFORD CITY FC
@ Crowley Memorial World Cup Stadium at The Royal Palace (105.000), Ramusok, Ramusok Fief

It's the third time these two clubs have met at the end of the year in the King's Cup Final in the capital's O.A.S. district. In both of their prior appearances, CCFC were denied their first piece of silverware by the Azurian juggernaut. This time, the Elephants don't have an empty trophy cabinet to add extra pressure. Indeed, most Crawfordian fans were hopeful that the third time was to be the charm -- and that they were about to witness the first league/cup double since Real Azuris' own 4-5 years ago.

But it was not to be. Once again, the Breakers backed up their reputation as Cup specialists. Andrew Arrowsword hasn't been his best in front of goal all season, but he delivered the one timely strike they needed today. The real highlight, however, was the sumptuous 30-yard assist against the grain by Birgid Tidesson that simultaneously cut out Farrow, Peter Marshall, Bloodblade and Mario Modrich. Yet another tantalizing glimpse of what the fourth Tidesson is capable of on the days when she decides to try.

Kárpáty and Alcouin nearly team up for a well-worked equalizer in the 83rd minute, but Kárpáty's shot is tipped onto the upright and back out by Edith Tidesson's fantastic close-reaction dive. Real Azuris are going back to where they feel most at home - the Cygnus Cup. It's not the trophy they wanted, but lifting it should nevertheless buy Luis Varezzi some goodwill around Estadio MasseMord as the Klydian giants prepare to reload for a serious title push next year...

Arrowsword 60'
King’s Cup Final MVP: AM Birgid Tidesson

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Thank you so much for reading this season to the end. Or, if you just skimmed certain parts, that's appreciated too. Stay tuned for the results from Sekundar Ligan, Tredje Ligan and the lower leagues in a soon-to-follow post.

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[Cosumar]

Ziemelu Skaida, with a surprise season, win their second trophy of the CosumarLigan era (after their Tredje Ligan title 14 years ago). And they did it with two matches to spare, dispatching West Gundar 2-1 at home on Matchday 32. Definitely not the most immediately impressive or talented Sekundar Ligan champions in recent memory, but Ehab Amkura was such a disruptive force at defensive midfield that he garnered buzz for a World Cup 82 call-up. And it was just a weird season in that none of the expected favorites ever fully got their shit together.

Stoneshore and the Serpents end up atop the pile of the "best of the rest". The City of Centus has been waiting over a decade to get back where they feel they belong. The HL execs will be glad to add those big markets after losing one of their biggest money-makers, FC Samotath. True, Ziemelu Skaida also hail from Samotath, but have nowhere near the footprint, brand power or following. It will be interesting to see if Skaida can expand their supporter base into FC Samo territory (85% of the city) now that they're the suddenly the higher of the two.

1015 Sekundar Ligan         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  FC Ziemelu Skaida         34   21   6   7    61   43  +18    69  Champions, SBCC
 2  Centus Serpents           34   17  11   6    46   31  +15    62  Promoted, SBCC
 3  Stoneshore United         34   18   7   9    59   41  +18    61  Promoted, SBCC
 4  Na'Ilee Mariners          34   16   9   9    56   40  +16    57
 5  Zakhoro Aces              34   14  13   7    65   60   +5    55
 6  Revanigruud Riversharks   34   15   8  11    53   44   +9    53
 7  Gwynt Tywyll              34   15   8  11    40   31   +9    53
 8  Helfin Fief               34   14   8  12    52   44   +8    50
 9  Versiaville               34   12  11  11    72   74   −2    47
10  Regalia City              34   11  12  11    50   48   +2    45
11  West Gundar               34   12   8  14    46   51   −5    44
12  Morponte Fief             34   11  10  13    44   44    0    43
13  IFK Aldenskoett           34   10  10  14    53   58   −5    40
14  Pristine Forest           34   10   9  15    46   59  −13    39
15  FC Flen                   34    9   9  16    73   82   −9    36
16  Sontäfe City              34    8   8  18    34   59  −25    32  Relegated
17  Nomad Brotherhood FC      34    5  10  19    31   49  −18    25  Relegated
18  IFK Sundsvall             34    5   9  20    33   56  −23    24  Relegated


Sekundar Ligan XXVII Champions: ZIEMELU SKAIDA



Silver Ball: (Most Outstanding Player)
  DM Ehab Amkura

Silver Boot: (Top Scorer)
  LW Makenna Scripps (26 goals)

Silver Glove: (Best Goalkeeper)
  GK Cema Creed

Silver Arrow: (Best U21 Player)
  LW Makenna Scripps (21)

With how lackluster the Sekundar Ligan viewing was this season, fans of that division will be excited to see teams with some genuine ambition, sparkle and flair like Otkins Numenvernia and Cassandra Cosmopolitan secure promotion. One could make a case either of those two squads could've pushed for top half in Sekundar Ligan this year. Despite finishing 6th, Seryddwyr Aberaeron will go straight back up with them after rattling off some results in the playoffs. They started the year slow, shipping goals left and right after losing their best midfielder Townsend-Gregg to Eastweald, but gradually learned how to win (and defend) without her.

King's Cup semifinalists Everlong FC are the only surprising relegation, although purists of the domestic game surely had higher hopes for West Devellin, one of Ramusok's oldest and most storied neighborhood clubs. They were such a powerhouse 200 years ago or so, but the modern era consigned them to afterthought relic status in the capital.

1015 Tredje Ligan          Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1  Otkins Numenvernia       42   23   9  10   107   84  +23    78  Champions
 2  Cassandra Cosmopolitan   42   19  18   5    95   65  +30    75  Promoted
 3  SC Torpedo Kejsarkona    42   20  12  10    83   69  +14    72  Promotion Playoff
 4  Nuur Origins FC          42   22   6  14    49   35  +14    72  Promotion Playoff
 5  Fort Archer FC           42   21   6  15    79   68  +11    69  Promotion Playoff
 6  Seryddwyr Aberaeron      42   20   8  14    92   78  +14    68  Promotion Playoff
 7  Bergtatt Isle Athletic   42   19   8  15    58   47  +11    65
 8  White Tower FC           42   18  11  13    72   68   +4    65
 9  Pardock Island           42   18  10  14    56   59   −3    64
10  Klyde Heritage FC        42   17  11  14    46   41   +5    62
11  Sindo Fief               42   16  13  13    67   58   +9    61
12  Atletisk Surpronuk       42   16  10  16    76   80   −4    58
13  AFC Obscura 98           42   15  12  15    65   60   +5    57
14  Portsmouth FC            42   14  13  15    66   69   −3    55
15  Riverside Crew           42   12  15  15    39   42   −3    51
16  AC Sepultura             42   10  15  17    85   94   −9    45
17  Rexnor District 3        42   11  12  19    45   56  −11    45
18  Everlong FC              42   12   9  21    72   84  −12    45  Relegated
19  Azure Lane FC            42   12   8  22    64   84  −20    44  Relegated
20  Caledon Legion           42   11  10  21    59   77  −18    43  Relegated
21  Rexnor District 5        42    8  13  21    66   92  −26    37  Relegated
22  West Devellin            42    9   9  24    68   99  −31    36  Relegated


Tredje Ligan XXVII Champions: OTKINS NUMENVERNIA





Bronze Ball (Best Player):
  LW Ova Va'Vuva

Bronze Boot:
  CF Huzefugha Na'Bwama (31 goals)

Promotion Playoffs
3SC Torpedo Kejsarkona 1–3 Seryddwyr Aberaeron6
4Nuur Origins FC 0–2 Fort Archer FC5

Seryddwyr Aberaeron 1–0 Fort Archer FC
Promoted to SekundarLigan: 

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1015 Conference Cosumarus  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Esterhollow Harbor          27   17   4   6    57   30  +27    55  Champions
 2 Sarmon                      27   16   5   6    44   24  +20    53  Promoted
 3 Forest Hill FC              27   14   7   6    53   29  +24    49  Promotion Playoff
 4 Dvinko Black Heart          27   14   7   6    50   36  +14    49  Promotion Playoff
 5 Yambridge City              27   14   7   6    44   40   +4    49  Promotion Playoff
 6 Cassandra City II           27   14   6   7    54   44  +10    48  Promotion Playoff
 7 Hvalsey 08                  27   14   5   8    48   41   +7    47
 8 Woods of Ypres              27   14   5   8    40   34   +6    47
 9 Brayllor Town               27   11  10   6    44   34  +10    43
10 Sporting Culmar             27   12   5  10    40   34   +6    41
11 Highlanders                 27   12   5  10    45   40   +5    41
12 Gamma City Zakhoro          27   11   7   9    39   37   +2    40
13 Volmachtia Kaldukosic       27   12   4  11    38   38    0    40
14 High Noon FC                27   10   9   8    41   44   −3    39
15 Talmusok City               27    8  10   9    30   29   +1    34
16 Tamiat Town                 27    9   7  11    41   44   −3    34
17 Crawford Sharks SC          27    8  10   9    36   40   −4    34
18 East Devellin               27    7  10  10    33   38   −5    31
19 Hagenheim South End         27    8   6  13    33   40   −7    30
20 Larkinham Town              27    7   8  12    35   40   −5    29
21 Real Bellavista             27    6  11  10    30   36   −6    29
22 Dawchire Town               27    7   8  12    43   50   −7    29
23 Falco Na'Diveh              27    7   7  13    34   40   −6    28  Relegated (West)
24 AC Opjenheim                27    5  11  11    39   48   −9    26  Relegated (East)
25 Club Toftir                 27    5  11  11    33   49  −16    26  Relegated (Central)
26 Wealdheim Bards             27    6   5  16    38   58  −20    23  Relegated (East)
27 Rhithlungwerddon Town       27    5   5  17    33   57  −24    20  Relegated (West)
28 Black Diamond Osterhaut     27    2  11  14    51   72  −21    17  Relegated (Central)

Promotion Playoffs
3Forest Hill FC 1–1 (2-1 AET) Cassandra City II6
4Dvinko Black Heart 1–0 Yambridge City5

Forest Hill FC 0–0 (0-0 AET) (2-4 pen.) Dvinko Black Heart
Promoted to TredjeLigan: 

1015 Conference K&C            Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Gnoss Gallants AFC              38   21  15   2    73   33  +40    78  Champions/Promoted
 2 Treacherous Cove AFC            38   19   9  10    66   46  +20    66  Promotion Playoff
 3 Meryuma Marshals                38   16  16   6    63   49  +14    64  Promotion Playoff
 4 Salfa City                      38   18   8  12    65   55  +10    62  Promotion Playoff
 5 Sadenia Paladins                38   14  13  11    66   50  +16    55  Promotion Playoff
 6 Aberaeron Celtic                38   14  13  11    59   51   +8    55
 7 Kalloroda United                38   14  12  12    55   45  +10    54
 8 Tierra Interstellar Wanderers   38   15   8  15    54   60   −6    53
 9 Emerald Cove                    38   12  16  10    63   59   +4    52
10 Sammet Ridge                    38   12  15  11    49   48   +1    51
11 Wiedna Town                     38   12  15  11    50   51   −1    51
12 CD Panteras Nueces              38   11  15  12    50   52   −2    48
13 Silk FC                         38   12  12  14    48   50   −2    48
14 Tornline                        38   12  10  16    47   63  −16    46
15 Aläng FF                        38   10  13  15    51   62  −11    43
16 Interstellar Erurok             38   11  10  17    46   68  −22    43
17 Levithia Shrievenzale           38    9  11  18    49   64  −15    38  Relegated (Colonial)
18 Rhodes Ravens AFC               38    8  14  16    45   60  −15    38  Relegated (Colonial)
19 Atlético Oterro                 38    5  19  14    47   64  −17    34  Relegated (Klyde)
20 Klyde City                      38    7  12  19    37   53  −16    33  Relegated (Klyde)

Promotion Playoffs
2Emerald Cove 2–5 Sadenia Paladins5
3Meryuma Marshals 0–1 Salfa City4

Salfa City 3–4 Sadenia Paladins
Promoted to TredjeLigan: Sadenia Paladins

Lägre Ligan 2 - Klyde    Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Wilmontsbloom Blue Star   29   16   7   6    35   25  +10    55 Champions, Promoted
 2 Erpland County            29   16   6   7    36   26  +10    54  Promoted
 3 VfL Läutenstadt           29   16   4   9    45   29  +16    52
 4 IFK Nordön                29   16   4   9    49   36  +13    52
 5 Cerulia City FC           29   14   9   6    41   23  +18    51
 6 Villa Forsetti            29   15   5   9    50   29  +21    50
 7 Gamlasir                  29   14   8   7    52   34  +18    50
 8 Noumen Town               29   14   7   8    56   42  +14    49
 9 Gwerin Athletic           29   14   5  10    47   39   +8    47
10 Moggington County         29   14   3  12    48   43   +5    45
11 FK Pentagram Pjattervid   29   12   9   8    36   34   +2    45
12 Usk Town                  29   11  10   8    37   34   +3    43
13 FC Kviststad              29   11   9   9    40   35   +5    42
14 Lindsborg Premier         29   12   5  12    27   32   −5    41
15 Satyricon Nemeses AFC     29   10   8  11    33   37   −4    38
16 Noths Castle              29   10   7  12    42   48   −6    37
17 Oppland 806               29   11   4  14    35   48  −13    37
18 Sólstafir                 29    9   7  13    37   35   +2    34
19 Svart-Guld Klingaställe   29    9   7  13    33   50  −17    34
20 Gibwir Marsnal            29    8   9  12    41   46   −5    33
21 Flithby Town              29    9   6  14    31   37   −6    33
22 Oxbow Lake                29    8   9  12    37   44   −7    33
23 Baymar Lagune             29    7  11  11    35   38   −3    32
24 Ardamirchan Isle United   29    8   8  13    41   45   −4    32
25 Klyde II                  29    7  11  11    41   47   −6    32
26 Hamlack Town              29    7  11  11    33   40   −7    32
27 Glasbon SC                29    8   7  14    32   44  −12    31
28 Real Azuris II            29    7   9  13    32   40   −8    30
29 Orias-Kvissle SC          29    8   5  16    28   49  −21    29
30 Atletisk Kvelertak        29    6   6  17    32   53  −21    24

Lägre Ligan 2 - East     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 AFC Centus                29   17   8   4    67   42  +25    59  Champions
 2 AFC Wernersburg           29   18   4   7    59   39  +20    58  Promoted
 3 Eastweald II              29   16   8   5    52   36  +16    56
 4 IFK Sokuldijak            29   15   8   6    54   42  +12    53
 5 Mallox II                 29   12  10   7    45   33  +12    46
 6 Östrad Rockets FC         29   13   7   9    47   41   +6    46
 7 Dusk Athletic             29   14   3  12    54   49   +5    45
 8 Interstellar Östrad       29   13   5  11    46   37   +9    44
 9 Paulsendam Town           29   12   8   9    51   45   +6    44
10 Cadonica United           29   12   8   9    56   54   +2    44
11 Somberlain FC             29   11  10   8    44   35   +9    43
12 Ramusok United II         29   11  10   8    40   35   +5    43
13 1. FC Guggenheim          29   12   6  11    40   42   −2    42
14 Marshall-Blue FC          29   11   7  11    48   43   +5    40
15 FC Stellendam             29   12   4  13    42   43   −1    40
16 Chesterton Cottagers      29    9  11   9    32   33   −1    38
17 United FC of Stoneshore   29   11   4  14    48   53   −5    37
18 Nabataea                  29   10   6  13    64   58   +6    36
19 Cape Dutch Copperheads    29   10   5  14    53   53    0    35
20 IFK Keukenhok             29    9   8  12    39   46   −7    35
21 Scarromere FC             29   10   5  14    30   49  −19    35
22 Sporting Corrian          29    8  10  11    43   50   −7    34
23 FC Samotath II            29    9   7  13    45   53   −8    34
24 Coppell City FC           29    8  10  11    32   40   −8    34
25 OAS Royal FC II           29    9   7  13    31   39   −8    34
26 East Gundar               29    8  10  11    34   46  −12    34
27 Atletisk Östrad           29    8   8  13    49   52   −3    32
28 Zirconim City             29    6  11  12    32   42  −10    29
29 FC Kaldukosic II          29    6   7  16    44   66  −22    25
30 Ingleton Town             29    6   3  20    26   51  −25    21

Lägre Ligan 2 - Central  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Ajatarra Alligators       29   16   7   6    37   21  +16    55  Champions
 2 Jotungard 99 FC           29   16   6   7    42   20  +22    54  Promoted
 3 Harlegan Rovers           29   15   9   5    36   23  +13    54
 4 SC Cirith 01              29   15   8   6    36   22  +14    53
 5 Gladsax Chariot FC        29   16   4   9    33   20  +13    52
 6 Hassaburess Athletic      29   14  10   5    37   26  +11    52
 7 Moore Hill Pirates        29   13  10   6    34   21  +13    49
 8 Attumac Wanderers         29   13   9   7    30   19  +11    48
 9 Heofoncandel Uré          29   14   6   9    35   26   +9    48
10 Carnessa County           29   12  10   7    16   15   +1    46
11 Braumhill                 29   13   7   9    34   34    0    46
12 Nexus Magens FC           29   13   6  10    30   31   −1    45
13 FC Fejd                   29   12   7  10    27   25   +2    43
14 Malm Town                 29   12   6  11    32   21  +11    42
15 Goldsoul FC               29   12   6  11    32   23   +9    42
16 Morponte Fief II          29   12   5  12    27   29   −2    41
17 Scarborough               29   11   8  10    26   28   −2    41
18 Gorgoroth                 29    9  10  10    32   29   +3    37
19 FC Invierness 912         29   10   7  12    24   28   −4    37
20 Mintwick Marmots          29   10   7  12    25   32   −7    37
21 Lykathea City             29    9   8  12    22   20   +2    35
22 Taigaenplats              29    9   8  12    26   30   −4    35
23 Keldin Town               29    8   9  12    17   21   −4    33
24 Club Varden               29    8   7  14    22   32  −10    31
25 Columbia Town             29    8   6  15    20   37  −17    30
26 Ombra Castle              29    8   5  16    19   33  −14    29
27 Impera Town               29    6   8  15    21   30   −9    26
28 Austentrapp City FC       29    6   8  15    20   34  −14    26
29 Briquia Southside FC      29    6   4  19    30   53  −23    22
30 FC Kastanjestad           29    3   1  25    11   50  −39    10

Lägre Ligan 2 - West      Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 FC Va'Lubasa               29   16   6   7    60   39  +21    54  Champions
 2 Sporting Pirankoper        29   16   6   7    58   51   +7    54  Promoted
 3 SC Swamport                29   15   7   7    55   36  +19    52
 4 West Ellum                 29   16   4   9    45   32  +13    52
 5 Stortrommeby Town          29   15   5   9    43   27  +16    50
 6 Red Star Karbosic          29   14   6   9    44   32  +12    48
 7 FC Arkadius                29   14   6   9    47   39   +8    48
 8 Klovstad Klub              29   13   8   8    46   27  +19    47
 9 Theli City                 29   14   5  10    56   45  +11    47
10 FC Na'Travii               29   12  10   7    45   36   +9    46
11 Olympique Sur Mer          29   13   7   9    48   46   +2    46
12 Bayford City               29   13   6  10    57   43  +14    45
13 Yellow Meadow Lynwood      29   12   6  11    40   39   +1    42
14 Chamomile Town             29   11   9   9    41   46   −5    42
15 Drummond's FC              29   10  11   8    29   27   +2    41
16 Tromsdale Town             29   12   4  13    46   50   −4    40
17 Duval Town                 29   10   7  12    29   23   +6    37
18 Thergothon                 29   10   7  12    29   27   +2    37
19 Crawford City FC II        29    8  11  10    43   47   −4    35
20 East Ellum                 29   10   5  14    52   57   −5    35
21 Grayslake                  29    9   8  12    35   41   −6    35
22 Goldstaff Athletic         29   10   4  15    41   59  −18    34
23 Yuonela Town               29    9   5  15    40   53  −13    32
24 Inter Juta                 29    7  10  12    42   56  −14    31
25 Ayr Athletic               29    8   6  15    38   50  −12    30
26 IFK Karlsborg              29    6  12  11    37   55  −18    30
27 Miklagaard Salvation       29    8   6  15    32   53  −21    30
28 Rhupenhoven Town           29    7   8  14    42   52  −10    29
29 SEP Bjärnum                29    8   5  16    28   46  −18    29
30 FC1. Richtofen Avalanche   29    4  10  15    27   41  −14    22

Lägre Ligan 2 - Colonial  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Tranquility Treepolis      29   18   8   3    56   29  +27    62  Champions
 2 FC Dynamo Kurbads          29   16   8   5    60   41  +19    56  Promoted
 3 Romstafar Outpost          29   16   8   5    31   16  +15    56
 4 Kreanoltha Vipers          29   15   9   5    44   22  +22    54
 5 Alstagruuket Sarlaccs FC   29   15   7   7    64   49  +15    52
 6 Marinus City               29   14   8   7    67   46  +21    50
 7 Rexnor District 8          29   14   6   9    41   38   +3    48
 8 New Hagenheim Canopy       29   13   7   9    55   47   +8    46
 9 Buscari Bridge Force       29   13   7   9    40   34   +6    46
10 Rexnor District 7          29   14   4  11    41   37   +4    46
11 Orion Wanderers            29   13   6  10    65   57   +8    45
12 Rexnor District 9          29   13   4  12    59   61   −2    43
13 Murkwaamp Suns             29   10  12   7    48   41   +7    42
14 NOVIA Alliance             29   12   6  11    45   42   +3    42
15 Menoptera United SC        29   12   6  11    27   33   −6    42
16 Rexnor District 2          29   12   5  12    51   57   −6    41
17 Dockery Union              29   12   3  14    31   34   −3    39
18 Whitestone Athletic        29   10   8  11    43   44   −1    38
19 Varvonti Firestorm         29   12   2  15    30   35   −5    38
20 Sporting Club Macofor      29   10   7  12    49   51   −2    37
21 Exxeco Station             29   10   4  15    41   45   −4    34
22 Snaigow Hoarfrost          29    9   6  14    45   51   −6    33
23 Templar-Lune FC            29    9   6  14    37   45   −8    33
24 Drahva United              29    9   5  15    47   58  −11    32
25 Ciems Mungonduvia          29    7   9  13    41   49   −8    30
26 Piander Falls FC           29    7   7  15    27   34   −7    28
27 Tonsei Tumult              29    7   6  16    26   40  −14    27
28 Borzac Sequins             29    7   5  17    39   63  −24    26
29 Rexnor District 6          29    7   3  19    24   54  −30    24
30 Rexnor District 4          29    5   6  18    49   70  −21    21

[Cosumar]

Welcome, valued reader, to the 28th Härlighet Ligan season since the Fiefdom Soccer Federation organized Cosumar's first true domestic pyramid. 256 clubs. Ten leagues. Five tiers. One annual cup competition for them all (King’s Cup).

The top three tiers, the Härlighet Ligan, Sekundar Ligan and Tredje Ligan, form an entity known as CosumarLigan. Two parallel conferences comprise a messy fourth tier below the prestigious CosumarLigan triad. Then, five large regional competitions fall under the umbrella of the fifth tier. Further below that, not tracked in this newswire), are the “Fief leagues” (local play in each of Cosumar’s 21 provincial fiefs).

For over a century before the CosumarLigan revolution, club teams just traveled around playing in various exhibition tournaments. In addition to structure, the modern era brought new mechanisms to incentivize youth development and international transfers. Well, except this season, in which the FSF placed a temporary hiatus on new incoming foreign transfers.

But we can now see the dividends in the overall quality, which tends to be relatively spread-out. A majority of HL clubs lay claim to at least one difference-making star, meaning results can be fairly unpredictable. Sekundar Ligan could arguably be a UICA Top 30 league on its own now too. The new era also saw the integration of clubs from Cosumar's space colonies. Last season, an offworld club made it to the Cygnus Cup Final. Although the HL is 100% terrestrial this season, expect to see more space travel in Cosumar’s top tier in the future.

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Map of Current Clubs:

Overview of Past Winners:
I: OAS Royal FC
II: OAS Royal FC (2)
III: Mallox
IV: Mallox (2)
V: OAS Royal FC (3)
VI: Mallox (3)
VII: OAS Royal FC (4)
VIII: Ramusok United
IX: Klyde
X: Real Azuris
XI: Real Azuris (2)
XII: Cassandra City
XIII: Mallox (4)
XIV: Ramusok United (2)
XV: Cassandra City (2)
XVI: Real Azuris (3)
XVII: Real Azuris (4)
XVIII: Real Azuris (5)
XIX: Cassandra City (3)
XX: Real Azuris (6)
XXI: Cassandra City (4)
XXII: Real Azuris (7)
XXIII: Real Azuris (8)
XXIV: Mallox (5)
XXV: Eastweald
XXVI: Cassandra City (5)
XXVII: Crawford City FC
XXVIII: _______ ?

8 – Real Azuris
5 – Mallox
5 – Cassandra City
4 – OAS Royal FC
2 – Ramusok United
1 – Klyde
1 – Eastweald
1 – Crawford City

CRAWFORD CITY FC
Crawford, Numenvernien Fief

Nickname: Elephants

Founded: 924
Ground: Orangi Stadium (61,000)
Manager: Amethyst Fegelein (56)

Transfers In: Tnem Na’At’Njem (promoted)
Transfers Out: Valfar (retired)

First XI (4-3-2-1): Weschler (27) - Knych (26), Arrowsword (28), Bloodblade (26), Modrich (28) - Marshall (32 C), Farrow (26), Klein (27) - Moxham (22), Belladonna (23) - Kárpáty (27)
Key Reserves: Danko (CB/27), MacArthur (CB/24), Arbuckle (RB/21), Na’At’Njem (DM/20), Martell (LW/30), Mosquera (CM/27), Coultan (AM/35), Alcouin (ST/33)
Tactical Style: Maintain Possession, Control Midfield

Crawford is a port city, the largest on Cosumar's AO-facing southern and western coasts. It has grown in importance in this era of regional integration, with most Atlantian sea traffic coming to Cosumar through Crawford. The sunny southwestern city boasts a diverse population of over six million (including highest proportion of Vloo on the mainland) with a particular disdain for the concept of "indoors". It's easy to see why in their balmy semi-tropical climate and the inviting Lake Crawford to enjoy year-round. Even much of the colorful downtown nightlife is outdoors, with rooftop blues clubs and open dance pavilions draped in neon lights ubiquitous. CCFC's lakefront pitch also has an open, sunny ambiance that matches its city. Yet Crawford isn't one of Cosumar's traditional footballing cities. With the possible exception of Crawford Sharks SC eons ago, none of its clubs have ever been very successful, and it has a reputation for Fair Weather Fandom across all pro sports. In leaner recent years CCFC have indeed struggled to fill that behemoth stadium that Orangi Bottling Co. built when they bought the club in 995. However, all the investment is finally starting to show on the pitch now. With trendy marketing and little competition in a young booming city, CCFC has entrenched itself as the true "big club" that western Cosumar has long lacked. CCFC's nickname is homage to the rare Numenvernien spotted elephant, indigenous to the area. Their elegant teal/crimson/gold home kit (right) is the envy of the league. Their white away kit with gold and teal accents isn't shabby either.

Team Preview: If not preceded by Cassandra City setting a points record, the HL campaign Crawford City just had would be getting more buzz as one of the best of all-time. That they also nearly won the King’s Cup while holding off one of Eastweald’s strongest ever teams speaks to how dominant the Elephants were. Well, except against Eastweald. But the three points from six that CCFC scraped from their title challengers ended up proving the difference - they finished two points ahead. Now that the silverware monkey is off CCFC’s back, the obvious next step for Amethyst Fegelein’s project will be to rectify that 0-3 record in the King's Cup Final and get back to the UICA Champions' Cup Final again. The FSF’s international transfer freeze is also a relative advantage for CCFC this season. They had fewer needs to address than most, having stockpiled a bunch of quality depth last window. CCFC are poised to push for those trophies they desire on multiple fronts, with such vaunted international legends as Hannah Alcouin and Kim Coultan able to rotate in for starts between super-sub cameos. Fegelein also has the luxury of calling upon Pasarga, Audioslavia and Juvencus internationals from her bench. All the fans must do now is sit back and watch Pasargan star Alexander Kárpáty and reigning Player of the Year Chimera Moxham get even better in their second seasons on the banks of Lake Crawford. Despite winning the title and several individual accolades, it’s clear that there is still plenty of room for each of them to step up their game. Another one to keep an eye on is Marigold Belladonna. After a few years of loan spells to Abanhfleft and bouncing back and forth from Crawford City FC II, the homegrown attacking midfielder broke out in a big way last season, striking up palpable chemistry alongside Moxham. You could view this as Mari’s “sophomore season” as a key player for the Elephants as well. Finally, not to be overlooked, Rusalka Klein and Jennifer Farrow are arguably the team’s most important and consistent players - the ones who make the possession game tick from midfield with their two-way presence and effortlessly smooth crossfield passes. Peter Marshall anchors the midfield trio, a brick wall who recycles possession to Farrow & Klein with industrial efficiency. Opponents might be tempted to bypass Crawford’s midfield with long balls over the top, but it’s basically impossible to beat their center back pairing of Sarah Arrowsword and Bloodblade through the air. It’s almost unfair. I mean, a Drawkish giant and a minotaur? Come on. However, CCFC’s back four can be vulnerable to quick, shifty wingers who take them on the dribble. But opponents have to actually take the ball off Crawford and work it into that final third first.
Last Season: Champions (23-6-5). Prediction: 2nd.

Jakk Winterfyll (GK, 997-999)
Dmytro Kurosawa (CF, 1002-1009)
Phillip Sherman (DM, 997-1010)
Jens Reiniger (RB, 1000-1012)

Härlighet Ligan Champions 1015

EASTWEALD
Yambridge, Gellano Fief

Nickname: Wood Elves, or just Elves
Founded: 704
Ground: Old Weldenskirgen (43,209)
Manager: Theresa Riether (63)

Transfers In: Kaliya Java Gula (Keenan Athletic $3m)
Transfers Out: Sol Myren (FC Ziemelu Skaida $2m), Jo de Marisco (retired), Cassel Kortuufa (retired)

First XI (4-3-3): Mercator (25) - Thatch (31), Hopkins (26), Scott (30), V. Ilya (26) - Mordini (33 C), der Pros (31), Haalogalsson (26) - Bond (25), Kovačević (22), Fanaiyan (26)

Key Reserves: Matalon (GK/26), Java Gula (LRB/22), Bambic (CB/31), Townsend-Gregg (CM/22), Rao (LW/19), Del Angel (SS/28), Tali’raia (ST/Dryad)
Tactical Style: Tiki-Taka

Gellano Fief occupies most of The Weald, a low-lying tract of land with a tumultuous history nestled between the wild Northern Peninsula, the Dronningens mountain range to the south and the Great Central Desert to the west. The fief is practically divided down the middle: the dry industrial western half… and the gorgeously wooded eastern half. Obviously, Eastweald represent this eastern half of The Weald. Specifically, their name refers to Eastweald Wood, a thick deciduous forest that was thought to have magical properties (like spirits and sprites) by ancient Cosumarites. Hence the team's nickname "Wood Elves". Nobody actually lives in Eastweald Wood (development strictly prohibited), but the nearby city of Yambridge sits on the northern edge. The club's historic stadium is in the desirable southern outskirts, a stone's throw from the beginning of Eastweald Wood. Its green expanse can be seen from higher seats. It's a very quaint, picturesque area, Yambridge long a magnet for artists and intellectuals. That all makes the West Wealders over in Mallox hate Eastweald even more and fuels the fiery Weald Classic. Eastweald have also historically battled for turf locally with Yambridge City, who claim to represent the city's actual urban heart, but they've fallen down the pyramid recently. From the oldest active stadium to stirring club song "Ode to the Elves", Eastweald have a storied tradition in Cosumarite soccer dating back centuries. The club won buckets of trophies in days of antiquity and retain much of that prestige today... especially after finally winning that first HL title two seasons ago. They wear green dominant at home and yellow (right) on the road, always with matching color shorts and inverse color socks. They occasionally wear a monochromatic dark-gold throwback kit.

Team Preview: You can’t give Eastweald anything less than full marks for last season. They bounced back from their post-championship malaise of 1014, and achieved a points total that was actually higher than when they won said championship. Yeah, it was two points short, but it was still more points than any other season in club history. In most years they would’ve been champions. They were head-and-shoulders above the league by the eye test, their performances often even more eye-catching than the champions’. “Going home empty-handed of any trophies after the brilliant year we had will leave pits in all of our stomachs,” midfield captain Mina Mordini bemoaned in her exit interview. They’ve had a few months for those pits to gnaw away at them, so expect a furious title challenge from Eastweald this season. Brian Bond and Ishtar Fanaiyan comprise unquestionably the most dangerous wing combo in Cosumar and should put up scary numbers – both entirely capable of scoring 20 goals. Jagoda Kovačević is an exceptionally well-rounded young hold-up woman between them. Mordini and Somuele Der Pros orchestrate the tiki-taka build-up with supreme elegance. Brevin Scott and Samuel Hopkins are solid ball-playing CBs who, last season, cut out their previous roller-coasters of form. And if this is the year age finally catches up to Calogero Metz, Hesterine Mercator is probably next-in-line for the distinction of finest goalkeeper in the league. Indeed, Eastweald will be rightfully expected to reprise last year’s neck-and-neck title race with CCFC. If either of those sides had weaknesses, however, it was at outside back. Neither could claim true top-end fullbacks to match the quality of the rest of their squads. Whereas Crawford City have stuck with their hard-working domestic duo of Knych & Modrich, Eastweald have sought to make up ground by prying Kaliya Java Gula from Keenan Athletic. One of the key cogs of the Checkers’ surprise top-half finish last season, Java Gula offers a bit more youthful verve on the flanks than Guayabalense veteran Sol Myren. She could push for important minutes right away and at the very least add to Thersa Riether’s squad depth and versatility with her ability to play on either side. In a transfer window where the league largely stood still, might that be enough to make up two points? We think so.
Last Season: 2nd (21-10-3). Prediction: Champions.

Randy Lewis (ST, 915-926)
Endyl Paru (CB, 982-999)
Abdiel Assad (CB, 989-1001)
Mika Ostaltsov (LM, 999-1002)
Belarmin Worsaw (ST, 1002-1004)
Golden Rand (GK, 999-1005)
Henrique Ventura (MGR, 976-1006)
Esteban Hernandez (GK, 1007-1014)
Penumbra Amokachi (ST, 1009-1014)
Jo de Marisco (CM, 1002-1015)

King's Cup 999
King's Cup 1005
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1013

REAL AZURIS
Azuris, South Klyde Fief

Nickname: Breakers
Founded: 962
Ground: Estadio MasseMord (42,243)
Manager: Luis Varezzi (68)

Transfers In: Santo Silvestri (FC Samotath $6m), Tilda Tidesson (AC Holmenkollen loan return)
Transfers Out: Kurt Wolff (Stoneshore United $5m), Apolonnia Olonniquin (Centus Serpents loan)

First XI (4-1-2-3): E. Tidesson (23) - Biondi (34), Vanzanto (25), A. Tidesson (24), T. Tidesson (20) - Clorfeine (26) - Akarenaa (31), Antúnes (26) - Benedict (32), Silvestri (27), Sigurjónsdóttir (30)

Key Reserves: Antunović (LB/21), Haidt (CB/20), Chisenhall (RB/33), Mormentor (DM/33), Domino (CM/19), Bi. Tidesson (AM/22), Yucob (LRW/31), Arrowsword (ST/28), Billic (ST/34)
Tactical Style: Expansive, Flowing Attack

Real Azuris are popular across the southern half of Klyde Isle, the landmass east of mainland Cosumar. South Klyde Fief - and Azuris as its primary hub - is known for its liquor, spicy cuisine, laid-back days, hard-partying nights and close association with piracy during the seafaring age. More recently, Azuris has become the epicenter of the exploding Full-Immersion Virtual Gaming industry in Cosumar. Virtual tech firm MasseMord is the stadium sponsor. Azuris also has a distinctly latin flair, with lots of Spanish-stye architecture and a high population of Spanish-speakers (including a large West Sunrisian diaspora). South Klyde is very different from North Klyde Fief, which is why Real Azuris have such a fierce rivalry with Klyde FC. Those northerners claim the name of the whole isle! The audacity. Real also have local Azurian derbies with smaller clubs AFC Obscura and Silk FC. They're the youngest of the bunch, celebrating a 50th anniversary last season. Real was founded at the behest of the Baron of South Klyde Fief (hence Real) to give citizens a "legitimate" club to support that didn't have ties to piracy or organized crime in its history like AFC Obscura. Few could've foreseen the juggernaut that Azuris would eventually become in the Härlighet Ligan era. Thanks to the work of Akira Eld, Lujendra Mescalin and many more behind the scenes, they've raised the bar in Cosumar in terms of infastructure, club culture and international achievement. Their primary kit features the iconic tidal wave that has long swept over the top of the shirt. White for home, blue for away. Azuris also have a bold alternate kit: rainbow. A high-tech fabric gives off the appearance of misty rainbow light, as you'd see shimmering by a waterfall.

Team Preview: Real Azuris were well in touch with Crawford and Eastweald at the last midseason break, but faded from view somewhat by the end. Fans in Azuris these days aren’t accustomed to accepting 3rd as success, but let’s be real, there was a big talent gap behind the top two. It has been ages since the club brought in a new star from overseas. If you look at the facts, Luis Varezzi managed to win the King’s Cup and easily finish best-of-the-rest… in his first season without Bryger Tidesson or ever getting much from misfiring star striker Andrew Arrowsword. He couldn’t have done much better. Of course, it helped that under-the-radar arrival Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir turned out to be one of the signings of the season. The former Samaj star took to South Klyde like a duck to water and hit an astonishing vein of form, scoring a career-high 20 goals. She provided invaluable width with her ability to hug the touchline and then beat defenders on the dribble. Jeremy Benedict was excellent on the other side as well. There’s a huge amount of promise for next season if Juvencus international Santo Silvestri can supply consistent finishing in the middle… or motivate Arrowsword to return to form. That was the major piece missing last season. The Breakers are deep in their three central midfield positions and the younger homegrown defensive players have hardened into steely veterans who rarely set a foot wrong (so much so that Varezzi felt comfortable selling World Cup veteran centre-half Kurt Wolff while his value is still high). Aaaand they’re getting bright right back Tilda Tidesson back after a hugely transformative two years on loan with AC Holmenkollen. Any squad gaps that become apparent because of the international transfer boycott can be patched up better than most by Real’s prolific “El Faro” academy.
Last Season: 3rd (20-8-6). Prediction: 4th.

Akira Eld (MGR, 982-1000)
Giovanni Aldinne (LM, 992-999)
Tolgus Tregajorran (CF, 1004)
Ipier Ubuntu (CF, 997-1006)
Robert Sieuwerd (GK, 997-1008)
Georgia Kite (CF, 1005-1008)
Florentin Lachance (CM, 1005-1009)
Lujendra Mescalin (MGR, 1003-1010)
Sean Fraser (LW/ST, 1002-1011)
August Ozuna (GK, 1005-1013)
Ronan Bowditch (RW, 1004-1014)
Sandra Sybill (CM, 1007-1014)

Sekundar Ligan Champions 983
Harlighet Ligan Champions 998
Harlighet Ligan Champions 999
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1004
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1005
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1006
King's Cup 1006
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1008
King's Cup 1008
King's Cup 1009
UICA Champions' Cup 66 (1009)
UICA Super Cup 63 (1009)
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1010
Cygnus Cup 42 (1010)
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1011
King's Cup 1011
King’s Cup 1013
Cygnus Cup 46 (1014)
King’s Cup 1015

CASSANDRA CITY
Cassandra, Cresscalus Fief

Nickname: Reds
Founded: 882
Ground: The Amphitheatre (60,000)
Manager: Arturo Mancini (62)

Transfers In: Lili Riprov (AC Holmenkollen $2.5m)

Transfers Out: David Iziduko (retired)

First XI (4-3-3): Metz (36) - Va'Afaja (24), Jabelon (21), Frostmarris (33), Vivas (26) - Serafino (31 C), Rowan (30), Konsé (26) - Dyer Vry (27), Zeale-Riddick (27), de Sájajo (23)

Key Reserves: Seewöster (LRB/18), Gargo (CB/35), Riiyaaw (CB/17), Mace (CM/26), Meier (LW/32), Sonar Amethyst (RW/22), Riprov (ST/29)
Tactical Style: High-press alternated with periods of calmer possession

Cassandra revolves around showbiz and celebrity. Cosumar's film, fashion and theatre industries are centered here (star-studded Staropoli Street), as is the only legal gambling district in the Fiefdom (Cassandra Megacasino a major landmark). There are also decadent attractions of even less reputable nature (the most brothels and strip clubs per capita in Cosumar). A pilgrimage to Cassandra is a rite of passage for entertainers and hedonistic young adults alike. Located on the barren northern steppe that stretches between the peninsular dragonlands to the east and the deep Duversian forests out west, Cassandra has little to speak of in terms of landscape. Yet it became an important city due to its location on the Pristine River, which connected the two sides of Cosumar in the early days, and remains by far Cosumar's largest inland city. Cassandra City are its largest club, embodying Cassandra's glamorous image. Their brightly-lit, amenity-stuffed stadium, The Amphitheatre, is only a block from Staropoli Street! Cassandra Cosmopolitan, however, are emerging as a legitimate competitor following successive promotions. Other local derbies include Riverside Crew, who claim support amongst the overlooked sailor and merchant neighborhoods along the river. Meanwhile, many big clubs around Cosumar also see the Reds as enemies. They've stepped on some toes. Most notably Ramusok United, stemming from their Millenium Miracle at the Blues' expense and subsequent battles. At home, Cassandra wear their customary all-red (right). Away, they wear a half-red, half-white shirt with black shorts and, distinctively, one red and one white sock (inverted from shirt).

Team Preview: The defending champions shouldn’t have had to battle as hard as they did in the second half of last season just to squeeze back into the Champions’ Cup, but they did get that top four spot and make it to two international finals. After falling short in both the AOCL and CC Finals, we should see a hungry - perhaps even slightly pissed - but still confident Cassandra City this season out the gates. Vega Zeale-Riddick and the rest of the attack started slow last season. If they can cut that out and play from the start like they did throughout the Champions’ Cup, there’s no reason they can’t leap straight back into the title race. Especially if the more-composed Lojes de Sájajo we saw as the Reds made their late charge is the real Lojes de Sájajo now. The arrival of proven HL double-digit scorer Lili Riprov, meanwhile, should help alleviate some of the strain on the overworked Zeale-Riddick, who played all of last year without a real back-up in the squad. She still scored 24 league goals, but you could tell the fatigue was starting to affect her. VZR will get her goals regardless, but having now one of the best second-choice strikers in the league behind her in Riprov could help her get back to record-breaking efficiency. The bigger question might be whether the Reds have proper coverage for key players like Bellerophon Serafino, Ursula Rowan and Calogero Metz – all still elite but all now on the wrong side of 30. Fortunately for the first two, Jarobi Konsé does most of the dirtiest work in that midfield with aplomb. Fortunately for Metz, he has probably the best back line in Cassandra City’s history in front of him to cover for any declining reflexes. Q’orianka Va’Afaja is borderline Cosumar’s first choice left back, Dídac Vivas is a perpetual standout at right back, and youth internationals Wil Jabelon and Lohani Riiyaaw are thoroughly modern ball-playing CBs who have earned increased responsibility. The lights are always bright at The Amphitheatre, but this cast looks ready for its next act.
Last Season: 4th (16-7-11). Prediction: 3rd.

Luke Crisalus (ST, 965-982, 985)
Francois Renault (MF, 988-998)
Ace Newman (RW/ST; 995-1001, 1014)
Ron Bromwyn (MGR, 985-1004)
Kyle Fleming (MF, 997-1007)
Jacob Pandan (CB, 996-1002)
Jol Tortuu (ST, 1000-1011)
Jason Goulding (ST, 1008-1014)

Harlighet Ligan Champions 1000
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1003
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1007
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1009
King's Cup 1012
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1014

MALLOX
Mallox, Gellano Fief

Nickname: Tigers
Founded: 804
Ground: Orange Palace (46,000)
Manager: Kennedy Kopenhaver (68)

Transfers In: Simon Ardley (FC Samotath $2m)
Transfers Out: None

First XI (4-4-1-1): Va’Nega (26) - Engram (27), Bruyne (31 C), Salverda (25), Broxham (22) - Del Arro (32), Sjunitsson (27), Dé (28), Siorrha'Asione (28) - Masatoshi (21) - Riordan (27)

Key Reserves: Ardley (GK/35), Benjamin (CB/23), Chappelle (CB/DM/24), Corsair Gust (CM/27), Cloudchaser (AM/37), Emery (LW/30), Cheong (RW/21), Hjelmsgaard (ST/21), Vu’Zago (ST/18)
Tactical Style: Fast and Direct in the transition game

Gellano Fief occupies most of The Weald, a low-lying tract of land with a wartorn history, nestled between the wild Northern Peninsula, the Dronningens mountain range to the south and the Great Central Desert to the west. The fief is practically divided down the middle: the gorgeous, thickly-wooded eastern half... and the dry, flat western half. Mallox is the major city in this less glamorous western half, a center of heavy industry and manufacturing, surrounded by wind farms and small, hardscrabble communities that depend on them for livelihood. The Orange Palace is at the heart of it all and is perpetually waitlisted, commanding universal support from Mallox proper as well as the outlying towns of West Weald. Mallox FC is seen as an embodiment of their blue-collar values. Even well-off Malloxites still identify with this hardworking ethos and fancy themselves the antithesis of their "arrogant silver-spoon brethren" in prosperous, intellectual Eastern Gellano cities like Centus and Yambridge. This cultural divide spills over onto the pitch when Mallox face archrivals Eastweald in the "Weald Classic". Mallox were one of Cosumar's most feared clubs in the early history of the Härlighet Ligan, trading titles with OAS Royal in the 980s and 990s. It was over 15 years into the HL era before they missed a UICA berth. The Tigers wear a diamond-textured orange home kit (right). Away, they wear black with subtle watermarks of Mallox's industrial skyline.

Team Preview: Uncharacteristic of Kennedy Kopenhaver sides, Mallox were usually wonderful to watch going forward last season, but too often lacked defensive discipline, or backbone late in close games. Kopenhaver has no fewer than four starter-quality center backs at his disposal, but never settled upon a consistent pairing. None of the many combinations were able to get completely in-sync, and it showed. 71 GA. Goalkeeper Lone Va’Nega also had a rocky year by his usual solid standards. The club insists that Nepharim veteran Simon Ardley is being brought in from Samotath strictly as a Globe/King’s Cup keeper, but you know Va’Nega took the move as an affront. Still, there has to be a mostly positive feeling around the West Weald, as the Tigers were able to finish 5th despite these defensive issues. Griffin Riordan seemed to bang in a goal almost every time out - making the board feel much less guilty about the $40 million of Kárpáty Kash in their pockets - and young creator Taka Masatoshi took a big step forward towards stardom (“Masatoshi to Riordan!” a common refrain last season). There’s more promising attacking talent coming up behind him too. If the goals keep flowing from Mallox’s favorite Brenecian and Kopenhaver can re-instill the defensive character for which his past teams have been known, it’s reasonable to think they could climb into the top four.
Last Season: 5th (16-5-13). Prediction: 5th.

Pablo Reyes (GK, 965-978)
Kennedy Kopenhaver (CB, 970-985; MGR, 1010-)
Leland Burke (MF, 972-980)
Thomas Hair (CB, 976-980)
Baltomer Izecson (ST, 987-997)
Anders Engström (ST/LW, 993-1001, 1011)
Haruto Takahashi (LM, 999-1006)
Stuart Gildon (RM, 994-1008)
Jimmy Kelly (ST, 997-1009)

Harlighet Ligan Champions 985
Harlighet Ligan Champions 988
Harlighet Ligan Champions 992
King's Cup 1000
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1001
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1012

RAMUSOK UNITED
Ramusok, Ramusok Fief

Nickname: Blues
Founded: 751
Ground: Fire River Arena (80,000)
Manager: Kirum Mortonsson (46)

Transfers In: Dorthia Lanios (Inter Juta $0.25m)
Transfers Out: Ivo Jago (retired)

First XI (4-4-2 Dmnd): Kearney (37 C) - Sutton (26), Hare (25), Steelhenge (26), Topić (22) - Bachelor (25), Luminesce (24), Sparrow Body (27), Wheeler (24) - Wedderburn (26), Arrowsmith (29)

Key Reserves: Cevelunen (GK/22), Lanios (LRB/24), Dellavigna (CB/19), Carr-Ponce (CB/30), Winterseer (DM/25), Djanetic (MF/27), Duvalier (RM/19), Del Toro (CAM/31), Stone (ST/33)
Tactical Style: Work rate and toughness prized in physical attack

Ever since OAS Royal FC opened shop 30 years ago and became the capital's purveyors of prestige and foreign appeal, the much older United have repositioned themselves as "the everyman's club" in Ramusok. The club for the "true Ramusoki" and those outside the glamorous royal district. The real representation of Ramusok's soccer culture. Yet, even though they claim the city's most recent championship, Ramusok United have once again reverted to a slight secondary status to Royal in recent years. The club is located in a young and "hip" part of town, near Ramusok Capital University and popular nightlife spots. Their stadium, Fire River Arena, is one of the most historic in Cosumar - the Fiefdom's first jewel of such size and former home to the National Team before being overshadowed by Kaldukosic’s Leviathan Arena and then OAS Royal's new Crowley Memorial. It got its curious name from a local legend. The Sampson River, which runs into the ocean just a mile away, was a key tactical location in the battles of ancient Cosumar. When Mikael The Magnificent completed his conquest of the area, he was said to have dumped such a quantity of explosives into the river that flames danced upon the waters for two whole weeks as a show of intimidation. United's sea of blue-clad supporters do their best to be equally intimidating. Their blue shirt (pictured right) is worn with solid white shorts and blue socks. On the road, United wear this silver shirt, with solid blue shorts and silver/blue hooped socks.

Team Preview: It was a strange final season for old Jock Sonny. There were bad heavy losses to Treftadaeth Alliance, Pelethas and CCFC, but his team also rose to the occasion for the very biggest matches: sweeping arch-nemesis Cassandra City and beating both of their local Ramusok rivals. Globe Cup qualification was probably the best Sonny could do considering how strong the top four were last season. Besides, that was his original promise when he took the job three years ago – that he would return Ramusok United to the UICA where they belonged. Mission accomplished! Enjoy your peace and quiet back in Schottia. Now it’s up to Kirum Mortonsson, who made over 200 appearances for the club as a defender, to carry the torch forward as gaffer. Mortonsson’s United go into the season with almost an identical squad, expected to make a serious effort in their long-awaited Globe Cup return while also qualifying for the next edition, which will require another top six finish. Consistency will be the key. Up top, strike options Winston Arrowsmith, Lara Wedderburn and William Stone all had their own great individual stretches last season, but there were also draughts when Luminesce and #10 Corby Wheeler’s inventiveness were going to waste. By the same token, there were times when Sonny had John Hare, Igor Topić and Dragora Steelhenge looking like some of the toughest defenders in the league, but also moments that left you scratching your head (*cough* 7-2 at Pelethas *cough*). That inconsistency means there are a huge range of potential outcomes for the Blues. They could achieve top six again, sure. Maybe a hair higher if a Wheeler or Wedderburn rockets to a new level. They’ve also shown to be prone to implosions, and if they make a habit of that without a persona like Jock Sonny to snap them out of it, it’s not hard to imagine a bad backslide this season either. What you can count on from this Sonny-style side is relentless hustle and a genuine yet never excessive physicality – football the way your grandpap says it was meant to be played.
Last Season: 6th (16-5-13). Prediction: 6th.

Derris Na'Fen (ST, 946-949)
Chester Pearce (RB, 932-938) (MGR, 974-979)
Mike Flanningan (CB, 998-1010)
Kirum Mortonsson (CB, 992-1001)
Seon Jin Kang (LB, 1001-1011)
Curtis Théberge (ST, 1004-1012)
Robin Geirsson (CM, 998-1013)

Harlighet Ligan Champions 994
Harlighet Ligan Champions 1002
King's Cup 1002
3rd Vilitan Cove Invitational (1014)

PELETHAS UNITED
Pelethas, Morponte Fief

Nickname: Miners
Founded: 835
Ground: The Xanadu Dome (31,000 w third level covered)
Manager: Catherine Sedgwick (49)

Transfers In: Fenric Haegg (promoted)
Transfers Out: Sadie Brinegar (retired), Auburn Tarrant (retired)

First XI (4-2-3-1): Nier (32) - Bourillion (24), Maersk (27), Said (26), Grennan (25) - Greenchurch (23), Crowley (30) - Aspenwood (29), Montelius (20), Miettinen (24) - Alotic (32)

Key Substitutes: Lincoln (GK/21), Haegg (CB/19), Kåsa (DM/32), Saltorius (AM/28), Xandreas (AM/31), Na’Bukanm (ST/16), Cyn-Penzag (ST/24)
Tactical Style: Tough Defending, penetrate through the middle with Aspenwood cutting inside

Pelethas started as a mining community (named after 8000-meter Pelethas Peak, omnipresent behind the skyline) but has evolved over the centuries to become much more. Pelethas is a destination city. With the famous Jagged Mountains to the north and Cosumar's finest golden-sand beaches to the south, Pelethas is full of tourists regardless of season. The Mediterranean climate of the south coast also allows Pelethas to contribute to the economy via agriculture. The fruit/nut/vegetable farms aren't too exciting, so they're a bit removed from the actual city and touristy areas. Though mostly obsolete due to space mining, former mining communities still dot the land of north of Pelethas amongst the first mountain slopes. Pelethas United was borne out of a merge between Erehwon Sports Club, popular amongst miners since the area was settled, and much younger Pelethas Peak AFC - a manifestation of the town's rapid urbanization. One had the grassroots support and the other had the "new money". It was a mutually-beneficial marriage. A condition was that "United" stay true to Erehwon's roots as a miners' club in their imagery and community involvement. Pelethas United mostly led a mediocre existence in Sekundar and Tredje Ligan until being backed by a deep-pocketed tourism mogul and bankrolled up the pyramid in the last decade. It's still more of a gridiron town (Pelethas Thunder sell out their new shared stadium with far more regularity) but United are closing the gap. They wear a classic Silver & Gold kit (right) at home with the Jagged Mountains on the chest. On the road, they wear this regal crimson/gold kit.

Team Preview: A pretty good season all-in-all for the Miners last year as they maintained Champions’ Cup hopes for the first two-thirds and ultimately qualified for the Globe Cup. It would’ve been difficult to do worse than the über-disappointing prior season, but still. A well-done turnaround by first-year manager Catherine Segdwick. Sedgwick signing Regatta Aspenwood was low-key fantastic, fluidly drifting between the left wing and a central creative role. Sedgwick wasn’t afraid to make bold changes either, like dropping $10m striker Iain Cyn-Penzag to play Charlie Alotic alone up top (facilitating his career-high 24 goals) and phasing homegrown girls Hestia Greenchurch and Jakki Montelius into starring roles at the partial expense of some long-established veterans. It’s hard to see how Pelethas United can push much higher than this (the Globe Cup places), but there are plenty of good (and young) players at the Xanadu, so Sedgwick could shine again.
Last Season: 7th (15-6-13). Prediction: 9th.

Jack Algar (MF, 995-1005)
Trygve Tyson (ST, 994-1007)
Ryan Carmichael (DM, 1003-1009)
Rose Kingsley (GK, 999-1012)
Auburn Tarrant (AM, 1009-1015)

Tredje Ligan Champions 983
Tredje Ligan Champions 989

OAS ROYAL FC
Ramusok, Ramusok Fief

Nickname: Whites or Royals
Founded: 982
Ground: Crowley Memorial World Cup Stadium (105,000)
Manager: Syl Denhardt (58)

Transfers In: Tree Harper (Regalia City $0.5m), Aelfwynn Bannion (Goldstaff City free), Sylvester Sundvik (promoted)
Transfers Out: Corey Simmons III (Centus Serpents $6.5m), Beatriz Koclanes (FC Ziemelu Skaida $2m), Harlan Sheriff (Centus Serpents loan), Ferne (retired), Alex Rocket (retired)

First XI (4-4-2): Shalhoub (32) - Duvernay (28), Hanger (29), Fosse (32), Di Sansev (25) - Kahara (24), Drover (31 C), Marchant (26), Coffey (26) - Marsteller (26), Møller (21)

Key Reserves: Alañiz (GK/24), Harper (LB/26), Omenihu (CB/19), Valcon (CM/24), Sundvik (LRW/17), Sonnen (ST/19), Bannion (ST/31)
Tactical Style: Exploit wide spaces with speed

Ramusok is Cosumar's capital and second-largest city. Its rich soccer culture has seen various clubs ebb and flow over the decades, but in the CosumarLigan era there have been a definitive "Big Two": Ramusok United… and OAS Royal. OAS is a fairly young club, founded by King James II to compete in the inaugural Härlighet Ligan season in 983. He spared no expense, recruiting World Cup stars and building a stadium adjacent to his Royal Palace. The team was immediately successful, winning the first two HL titles and becoming the first Cosumarite club gain international recognition. Though it has been awhile since Royal have won anything, they remain one of Cosumar's biggest brands. They have loyal fans across the Fiefdom and region, a prime location in the historic Område av Storslagenhet (Royal District) and now a shiny new stadium - a true monument to Cosumarite soccer. The matches are status events, with the King himself and handfuls of politicians and luminaries often in attendance. Around Ramusok, they are seen as the flashier, "cooler" club, with casual and bandwagon fans everywhere. O.A.S is almost like its own city-within-a-city, however. United better represent Ramusoki outside of its elite cocoon and tend to have more passionate hardcore supporters as a result. Royal wear sleek all-white (shirt right, with white shorts & socks) whenever possible. They also have a grey/white/turquoise secondary kit that pops up occasionally. This shirt, grey socks, and white shorts with a turquoise strip like the shoulder.

Team Preview: It doesn’t matter that 5th-8th were so tightly packed last season that only one result separated Royal from Mallox in fifth. Ony the top seven clubs get UICA status. Royal were #8. Those are the cold, hard facts. Given the level of talent in the squad (and massive spending on club infrastructure), to finish as an also-ran, and be so far behind the true pace-setters in the league, is unacceptable. When the likes of Sen Marsteller, Catheline Marchant, Thor Møller and Gitonga Kahara were flying, they showed what they could do. But something hard to put a finger on – a general air of complacency, lethargy? – prevented them from keeping those wheels turning when it mattered most, particularly at the end of the season. The King has generously given Syl Denhardt the chance make Year Three the one in which his vision is realized, but he won’t be given the whole season if more tangible progress in the results column isn’t evident after a couple months. A lot is hanging in the balance with arguably the biggest transfer window in Cosumarite history looming ahead (every club has had the forced luxury of two years to save up for it). To lure the championship-caliber elite talent that the OAS Royal brand will require to maintain its slightly tarnishing luster, a strong season – Globe Cup at minimum – is needed. They don’t have any glaring weaknesses or any one leading strength. They just need a little bit more conviction and killer instinct across the pitch. That type of holistic improvement can only come from the lead of Denhardt and talismanic captain Elsie Drover. A more active Møller could make all the difference as well, come to think of it. Too much standing around and waiting for his teammates to get him the ball. The Vanorian wonderkid has all the talent in the multiverse, but it’s time for him to become a man and work to insert himself into the action like Marsteller does. That’s why she had 19 to his 11 last season despite less raw ability.
Last Season: 8th (14-8-12). Prediction: 7th.

Henry Kueler (MF)
Oscar Jain (MGR, 983-994)
Alexander Pearce (CB/LB, 983-999)
Luke Crisalus (ST, 983-984), (MGR, 997-1000)
Sur Arora (ST, 989-1000)
Jaclyn Maris (GK, 998-1006)
Nicola Pecoraro (CB, 1000-1008)
Warren Paysinger (RM, 1001-1010)
Jannick Kontiola (RB, 998-1012)
Galasgoldas Tathtauré (ST, 1007-1011)

Harlighet Ligan Champions 983
Harlighet Ligan Champions 984
Harlighet Ligan Champions 989
Harlighet Ligan Champions 993

KEENAN ATHLETIC
Keenan, Cresscalus Fief

Nickname: Checkers, Bobs (short for Bobcats)
Founded: 958
Ground: DragonBull Field (21,000)
Manager: Matilda Heisenberg (62)

Transfers In: Makenna Scripps (Zakhoro Aces $3m), Gazek Na’Akeh (Goldstaff City $0.65), Wesley Raleigh (promoted)
Transfers Out: Kaliya Java Gula (Eastweald $3m), Ibrahim Arieli (Ziemelu Skaida $0.7m), Mischa Frederick (retired)

First XI (4-1-2-3): Verhoek (26) - Flare Eclipse (31), Malleom (25), Waz (26), Fortidoré (30) - Lewitzki (33) - Cirvante (28), Woodwind (29) - Scripps (22), Spisic (27), Sade (26 C)

Key Reserves: Petterson (GK/40), Raleigh (LB/17), Na’Akeh (DF/27), Traustason (DM/27), Chandilize (CAM/29), Cutnine (LW/26), Byfuglien (ST/19)
Tactical Style: Expansive, Flowing Attack

Ah, oft-forgotten Keenan, viewed by many as little more than a midway stop on the Hyperloop between Cassandra and popular Pristinia cities like Hagenheim or Aldenskoett. Keenan originally blossomed into an influential city due to its place on the Pristine River, which flows from east to west across northern Cosumar. Back in the day, it was an important trade stop along the river downstream from Cassandra. In the last century or two, however, Keenan had more or less grown stagnant, with little new growth or development. It was one of Cosumar’s lowest major cities in employment, average income and quality of life. In the last decade or so, however, Keenan has been amidst a civic rejuvenation as the rest of Cosumar has “rediscovered” its underappreciated natural beauty and charming cultural blend of Pristinia hippy-quirkiness and Cassandra thrill. Keenan has now become the new trendy city for young people who are too cool (or can’t afford) to move to Ramusok or Cassandra. This has presented a great business opportunity for Keenen Athletic, as this influx of new citizens and new money has coincided with their own rebirth of success. Traditionally a yo-yo side between the second and third divisions, Athletic finally managed to cement themselves in Sekundar Ligan in recent years and now find themselves amongst the best in the Fiefdom again thanks to a great homegrown core. It’s a reimagined city with a reimagined club to rally around as the embodiment of all its progress. That’s pretty exciting! Keenan Athletic are known for their black and red checkers at home, contrasted by their more subtle grey checkers with red shorts on the road. There was a storm of controversy a few years ago when they renamed their historic grounds after primary sponsor DragonBull, but the outrage has mostly been dropped by all but the most die-hard longtime supporters now. So much of the Checkered Army supporters group nowadays is composed of young transplants who aren’t that attached to the history anyways.

Team Preview: Phenomenal second season in the Härlighet Ligan for Matilda Heisenberg’s Checkers, who went and claimed the final top half place and followed up their SBCC title by booking a place in the VCI for good measure! They could not have achieved more in these two years since their promotion. But the style in which they played lends even greater significance to their achievement. They played with the swagger and mentality of a big club, complete with an attacking philosophy normally only feasible for big clubs, and only truly struggled against actual big clubs who could match them for that moxie (the Cassandra City and Mallox losses come to mind). Fake it ‘til you make it, right? Learning how to actually pack it in and grind out results against better teams will be the next step for this team if they want to push the envelope and ascend further. And maybe how to break down teams trying to do the same to them. With Elodie Sade gaining notoriety as a Cosumar international and new arrival Makenna Scripps’s Sekundar Ligan dominance making waves last season, it’s likely more teams will be scared of Keenan Athletic this season and go into bunker mode. Fortunately, Sleipnir Woodwind has the passing chops to break down bunkers and Dinko Spisic only needs his one chance to put the ball in the back of the net.
Last Season: 9th (13-6-15). Prediction: 10th.

Bethan Davies (RW, 996-1001)
Rory Den Hartog (ST, 992-1002)
Rone Kindgren (CB, 998-1014)
Jakob Gullmarstam (RW, 1007-1014)
Mischa Frederick (ST, 1000-1015)

Tredje Ligan Champions 984
Tredje Ligan Champions 999
Tredje Ligan Champions 1002
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1013
Series B Champions’ Cup 68 (1014)

[Cosumar]

OLASK ISLANDERS
Olask, Olask Fief

Nickname: Islanders, Laskies
Founded: 846
Ground: Kamu Road (24,000)
Manager: Collette Sade (54)

Transfers In: Dimitra Exarchopolous (FC Samotath $4m)
Transfers Out: None

First XI (4-4-1-1): Fielding (25) - Parchot (26), Bourass (24), DeKlan (29), Baker (28) - Exarchopolous (25), Abylon (23), Kraljic (26), Tamburelli (25) - Irwin (34 C) - Tzyzakoos (22)

Key Reserves: Na’Tlipoca (LB/19), Scougall (CB/34), Guinevere (DF/19), Stanfield (CM/26), Brown (CM/32), Methüzema (LW/25), Way (RM/33), Scafidis (ST/34)
Tactical Style: High press, defend tightly as a unit

The Islanders are the biggest club in Olask Fief, which consists of islands off the northwesternern coast of Cosumar. But “biggest” isn't saying much. Olask is the most sparsely-populated fief, with more sheep than humans and a rocky, inhospitable terrain. It then follows, naturally, that the Islanders are one of the Härlighet Ligan's most humble clubs in terms of financial resources and facilities, having long struggled to cement themselves in the top-flight between stays in Sekundar Ligan. Sometimes, they even struggle with filling that 'ole rustbucket stadium… and the potholes in its well-trodden pitch. Yet, things have been on the up lately amidst their longest-ever HL stay, including their first foreign superstar in Chrysanthe Scafidis. The self-deprecating fanbase embraces the club's unglamorous, lower-league image and pride Kamu Road on being one of the league's most difficult away trips. The Islanders draw support from the whole of Olask Island, the largest island of the Olask Fief archipelago – largely rural aside from the City of Olask. They have major derbies with clubs representing two nearby Olask Fief islands, Bergtatt Isle Athletic and Pardock Island, as well as mainland northwestern neighbors Versiaville. They wear iconic pewter blues (right) at home and a red x-design away.

Team Preview: A real campaign of two halves last term. Top Five for the entire first half of the season – unprecedented heights in Olask – and then... after the break… a freefall from said heights. Fair play to the Islanders board for keeping faith in Collette Sade when some teams would have panicked and pulled the trigger. Although, to be fair, the extremes we saw from the Islanders canceled each other out and resulted in the team finishing about where expected before their hot start. Center of midtable. But now that fans and ownership, after an eternity resigned to mediocrity, have tasted what it’s like to be a UICA contender, they’ll want Sade to produce that again. Unfair, right? Well, actually… maybe not. If there was any argument that this isn’t the most talent ever congregated on Olask Isle, it went up in smoke with the arrival of Nephara international winger Dimitra Exarchopolous in the wake of Samotath’s surprise relegation. She brings a guile and fearless ingenuity that the Islanders have never had out wide. And, believe it or not, she joins an already-established spine of established internationals on Cosumar’s least-glamorous outpost. Ethane right back Daniel Baker, newly-capped Vanquisher Maia Abylon (tipped for bigger things sooner rather than later) partnering with Mercedini midfielder Adam Kraljic (the silk to her steel) in the center, and the iconic Jade Irwin orchestrating the attack. Not to mention hawkeyed matriarch Chrysanthe Scafidis as a super-sub striker off the bench. She pitched in TEN goals from that role last season. If Sade can get them back to their hard-to-beat selves from the first half of last season, and throw a 1014-form Exarchopolous onto that mix, a surprise UICA season isn’t an impossibility. A team with Maia Abylon has never not finished higher than the year before. If they can do it through 20 games, they have it in them do it through 34. Sade will have to get every ounce of their best out of them though.
Last Season: 10th (13-6-15). Prediction: 8th.

Sergio Vilar (ST, 994-997)
Joseph Outerridge (CB, 988-1001)
Joseph Van Duren (CB, 997-1011)

None in modern era

TREFTADAETH ALLIANCE
Ashen Point, Parougan Fief

Nickname: Astronomers
Founded: 979
Ground: The Wormhole (28,000)
Manager: Apple Jack (38)

Transfers In: Zak Nyström (FC Samotath $2.5m)
Transfers Out: None

First XI (4-2-3-1): Poirier (31) - Teijeiro (23), Champali (34 C), Brotherford (28), Shakir (27) - Thursson (30), Gristlecharm (21) - Robitaille (27), Perrodien (20), Tarmé (27) - Nyström (24)

Key Reserves: Martinsky (GK/36), Morten (CB/21), Gates (RB/18), Maloney (DM/34), Mäntysaari (AM/34), Goulding (FW/35), Almeida (CF/25)
Tactical Style: Route One, baby

Soccer and supernovas? There might not be a club quite like Treftadaeth Alliance outside of Cosumar. Centuries ago, a cult society of astronomers founded a settlement called "Ashen Point" at the very tip of Cosumar's infamous uninhabited northern peninsula. They wanted to study the stars with perfect clarity away from any pollution or distractions. Cosumar's burgeoning astronomical community at the time used Welsh as its code language, much like how other societies use Latin. "Treftadaeth" roughly translates to "Inheritance", as this group espoused a theory that astronomy’s study would deliver Cosumar its national inheritance. They weren't wrong! Breakthroughs in space travel would begin to transform Cosumarite society beyond imagining in the coming decades. Anyways, the scientific commune at Ashen Point eventually grew to include academics of all persuasions. Today, it is a full-fledged town of 90,000 - home to a prestigious university and several research institutes. Besides having Cosumar's highest avg IQ, it remains our most isolated and frostbitten population center, a little spearpoint of civilization with only Dragon Reserve and ocean for hundreds of miles in any direction. So where does the football come in? Well, in the 970s, Treftadaeth Alliance started looking for ways to differentiate itself from a rival astronomical society (Seryddywr Alliance) out of Aberaeron, North Klyde. With rumblings that a formalized football pyramid would be introduced in the coming years, their creative solution was to launch their own footballing arm to get in on the ground floor! They called their team "the Astronomers" and, for the first few seasons, some of the actual researchers filled roster gaps on the team! They even hired astronomy interns based on who could double as a depth defender! (Promotions came after they started signing actual footballers). Today, full-time astronomers at the Alliance are still involved in the club’s front office. Due to the scientific culture in the fabric of the club, they're sports analytics devotees. As for rivalries, well, remember those rival astronomers? They'd copy Trefta a few years later, creating a natural enmity with second-tier "Seryddwyr Aberaeron", although they rarely play competitively. In practice, Alliance are bigger rivals with their nearest geographic neighbors (which isn't saying much) across Parougan Fief, FC Ziemelu Skaida. Traditional black-and-white striped kit with a light grey watermark of the famous Treftadaeth telescope. Alternate kit is a golden yellow shirt covered with constellations of small navy stars, with navy shorts and gold socks.

Preview: For his debut HL campaign, Apple Jack got an instant passing grade just for staying up. He won Manager of the Year, however, for doing so with six places in hand and refusing to be an easy out for anybody along the way. True to his prior reputation as a defensive midfield general, the Equestrian captain-turned-manager coached Treftadaeth Alliance into a very formidable defensive unit. Hard-tackling center back Preston Brotherford and goalkeeper Kai Poirier enjoyed breakout seasons on the HL stage, and a now-greying Cosudel Champali (just a little on the sides – classy) was as cool and composed as ever in the back. All of Apple Jack’s other post-promotion defensive acquisitions (Kragg Thursson, Gristlecharm, Lorne Morten, etc.) turned out to be hits as well, giving them above-average depth in the defensive third. Thus, the Astronomers had a solid foundation from which to attack, frequently terrorizing opponents down the left with rejuvenated-looking winger Toussaint Robitaille and the exciting Baldomero Teijeiro overlapping him. While tall bodies Irene Almeida and Isaiah Miller were more than serviceable last season as rotating #9s, the addition of former Cosumar U21 star Zak Nyström should add even more potency up top. Yet another team profiting from the surreal downfall of FC Samotath. But besides blitzing the left side and shooting or centering the ball, Alliance haven’t shown a consistent ability to create opportunities in other ways. Still, despite a somewhat limited attack, this is a solid group. They’re well-drilled and they play with a quickness that only comes with absolute clarity of their roles. After proving themselves last season, it’s hard to see the Astronomers going down in Year 2. How far can they go? Nyström will be the x-factor.
Last Season: 11th (11-10-13). Prediction: 12th.

Calib McCaskill (CB, 994-1010)
Nidia De Leon (RB, 1001-1014)

Tredje Ligan Champions 994
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1001
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1007

KLYDE
Klyde City, North Klyde Fief

Nickname: Doves
Founded: 649
Ground: The Klyde Sportsplex (88,000)
Manager: Corey Simmons Jr. (58)

Transfers In: Nephthys Na’Jai (promoted)
Transfers Out: Remington Abbasi-Fevison (Centus Serpents $1.75m), Booker Beckers (retired)

Starting XI (3-4-1-2): Pressinger (38 C) - Montgomery (25), Savar-Mal (32), Wheeler (29) - Butterworth (26), Broon (25), Tarashaj (30), Kvalderkorr (25) - Hollifield (18) - Gandhi (31), Turner (20)

Key Reserves: Kukiri (GK/30), Antoniou (LB/21), Cornthatch (CM/36), Fierro (CAM/27), Doyle (SS/20), Na’Jai (ST/18)
Tactical Style: Dynamic, Athletic Attack… but vulnerable on the break

Klyde are a massive club in terms of history, facilities, finances, fan passion, etc. They actually manage to sell out their giant multi-purpose stadium multiple times per season! The only problem is that, lately, they've been a "big club" basically everywhere BUT on the pitch. The Doves suffered a shocking first relegation in 1007 - just a year after finishing 4th and within a decade of being crowned league champions. They've since added a couple Sekundar Ligan trophies to their cabinet and now seem to be back to stay, but Klydians are frustrated at how long it is taking to return to their former UICA status. The club is trying to stay true to its history by maintaining an open, attractive style of play… but that doesn't necessarily translate well to the midtable slugfest. One impatient faction of supporters broke off a few years ago and started a new club to do things "better" - Klyde City - and is now trying to rise through the divisions as a challenger. Other local derbies include smaller sides representing specific Klyde neighborhoods such as Glasbon and Gwerin. Sekundar Ligan's Klyde Heritage FC - across the fief in Jädde - is also a heated opponent when the two meet. The biggest fixtures each year though, circled on every calendar, are Klyde FC's faceoffs with Real Azuris. As the dominant clubs from North Klyde Fief and South Klyde Fief, respectively, the Klyde Derby becomes a battle for all of Klyde's Isle. Klyde (the city) is one of Cosumar's oldest, dating back over 900 years - not far from where the First 5800 landed. Its port serves a critical function for sea travel between Cosumar's two main landmasses because it's where the strait is narrowest. Much of its local economy is still derived from the ocean - seafood is ubiquitous and Klyde Marina a grand time. The city is now a sophisticated metropolitan hub of 4.5 million (fourth-largest in Cosumar), but retains strong roots to the Irish and Welsh heritage of its founders. Outsiders often still think of clovers and celtic pubs when Klyde is mentioned. Klydians have a particular propensity for tea of all varieties when they aren't chugging cider and ale. At home, their Doves wear an all-purple kit with turquoise accents (pictured right). Away, the colors are inverted and turquoise becomes the dominant color. You may occasionally see a spring-green third kit.

Team Preview: Grading Corey Simmons Jr.’s first season is hard. On the face of it, Klyde finished exactly where they did a year ago in 12th – a finish that got Blinne Va’Tuaras sacked. They also got swept in the Klyde Isle Derbies – a common metric of success for supporters at the Sportsplex. They tended to switch off when they weren’t into it, resulting in too many dropped points from close games. However, there’s something about the way the season unfolded that makes one think the Doves are flying in the right direction. They finished with an even goal-differential that would’ve been good enough for top half. And, as we’ve come to expect from Simmons Jr. projects, several younger players made major strides in their development. Out of nowhere, midfielders thought to have plateaued, Micke Kvalderkorr and Peter Butterworth, added goals to their games (the latter so convincingly taking the starting spot on the left that Klyde were comfortable letting Abbasi-Fevison go to Centus). Teenage attacking mid Henry Hollifield made himself the latest darling of Cosumarite youth savants with some highlight-reel plays dancing through defenses. Even the academy’s crown jewel striker Cathal Turner, who surprisingly struggled in his first season as a week-to-week starter, flared to life down the stretch and rewarded Simmons Jr.’s belief in him. If Turner’s learning curve is truly in the rear-view mirror and the rest of these guys pick up where they left off, the Doves could make moves. Premiership veterans Vedran Tarashaj and Ozaria Gandhi provide a glue of assurance and quality between them and goalkeeper will always be a strength whether it’s Lind Pressinger or Freeport international Kukiri winning the start on a given week. To truly get back to where they want to be though – in title contention – Klyde FC simply have to invest more in the back line. Top defenders Layla Montgomery, Lynul-Savar Mal and Sallie Wheeler aren’t bad players, but I don’t think they’ll ever be more than midtable-tier in the HL. Coincidentally, that’s exactly the ceiling Klyde have had for a long time.
Last Season: 12th (10-10-14). Prediction: 11th.

Tae Woo Miyori (RB, 983-998)
Blinne Va'Tuaras (GK, 983-998; MGR, 1008-)
Fraz'm'nar Gor (CAM, 997-1000)
Jorginho (MGR, 991-1005)
Benjamin Clucke (DM, 998-1005)
Anna Bowman (ST, 1003-1008)

Härlighet Ligan Champions 997
King's Cup 1003
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1008
Sekundar Ligan Chamoions 1010

AC HOLMENKOLLEN
Holmenkollen, Ramusok Fief

Nickname: Cedars
Founded: 951
Ground: Cedar Road (21,000)
Manager: Curtis Théberge (39)

Transfers In: Godfred Hjelmgaard (Mallox loan), Kiyuni Rubieniecki (promoted)
Transfers Out: Lili Riprov (Cassandra City $2.5m), Tilda Tidesson (Real Azuris loan return), Teor Rwang (retired), Ekaterina Mirzayev (retired)

First XI (4-1-3-2): Vylon (29) - Grandstaber (26), Na’Nockeby (36 C), Borbély (21), Wynder (22) - Kolomainen (23) - Jameson (31), Romo (25), Stilic (20) - Jaeger (29), Hjelmgaard (21)

Key Reserves: Sappington (LB/21), Skannendev (CB/26), Živković (CB/21), McSorley (LW/24), Rubieniecki (ACM/17), Spekter (SS/29)
Tactical Style:Keep the ball on the ground and build possession with positional fluidity, but with a sense of forward urgency (few backward passes)

While OAS Royal and Ramusok United wage war for hearts and minds in the capital's urban core, Athletic Club Holmenkollen keeps quietly doing its thing in the posh northern suburbs. It started out as a recreational all-sports club serving the upper-middle class adults of the area. Before long, those suburban families wanted to enroll their kids in activities at the club too and the youth football academy was born - one of the first of its kind in Cosumar. It was well-funded and so immediately successful that a senior team followed a few years later and began competing in Cosumar's messy primordial domestic circuit. The club's primary purpose soon shifted away from serving as an athletic country club for Ramusok’s elite. While Holmenkollen residents can still buy membership and go to "the AC" for their squash and badminton, the football team is the focus. Unable to keep up with Ramusok's two giants due to their smaller geographic footprint, AC Holmenkollen have instead doubled-down on their youth-centric identity. The academy remains arguably Ramusok's finest (and they charge like it). As a selling club, their player turnover is high, but they've historically been able to punch high above their weight when the waves of talent have aligned. Fans at the cozy, intimate Cedar Road still swell with pride whenever they finish above Royal or United. Or whenever they look up at that 1005 COCANEFA Cup banner. Whenever possible, they wear their beloved pale-blue and red zag shirt (pictured), with solid white shorts and red socks. In the event of clashing colors, they wear a white shirt blue shorts and red socks.

Preview: They stayed up last season, which is the main thing, and managed great home wins against Cassandra City, Mallox and crosstown giants OAS Royal. However, all their best work came at Cedar Park. AC Holmenkollen were rather dreadful on the road. With top scorer Lili Riprov now seizing her chance at the prestige of a “big club” (even if as a back-up) and standout right back Tilda Tidesson returning home to Azuris, this season could be an even harder survival proposition for Curtis Théberge. His boys and girls are technical and athletic, playing some pretty stuff, keeping the ball on the ground… but is there enough cutting edge, enough firepower? Questionable. They’ll need another stellar year from unheralded Premiership veteran Mathilda Jaeger. She was the heartbeat of the attack last season, quietly reaching double-digit goals and assists in the capital’s northern ‘burbs. They'll also need another loanee success story a la Tilda Tidesson, with muscular striker Godfred Hjelmgaard coming over from Mallox to get starts somewhere where there's no Griffin Riordan. Also keep an eye on goalkeeper Shad Vylon for Cosumar caps if he leads the league in saves again to keep the Cedars up.
Last Season: 13th (6-12-8). Prediction: 17th, Relegation.

Rikki Varshney (ST, 957-964)
Dmytro Kurosawa (ST, 997-1001)
Neville Bloxham (CB, 992-1005)
Lilly Kearney (GK, 1002-1009)
Adnan Valerikssen (RM, 999-1010)
Funanya Nwapa (CM, 1004-1011)
Marco Luna (LB, 1001-1011)

Sekundar Ligan Champions 992
Sekundar Ligan Champions 997
COCANEFA Cup 1005
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1014

SAMAJ FC
Samaj, Culmarland Fief

Nickname: Hunters
Founded: 906
Ground: Stadion Jägare (32,000)
Manager: Johannes Lundblade (49)

Transfers In: Rikk Greegus (promoted)
Transfers Out: None

First XI (4-2-3-1): Maston (31) - Lovelock (34), Jakoljevic (29 C), Erakin (27), Palmqvist (28) - S. Földessy (20), Vanderlei (29) - Whitecastle (22), A. Gvetadze (17), Larsen (24) – Jurevicius (27)

Key Reserves: Melmendier (LB/22), Pladsen (CB/30), Muswell (CB/32), Pearson (DM/33), Møller (CAM/29), Columbine (AM/34), D. Gvetadze (ST/19), Totorikagoena (ST/23)
Tactical Style: Defend Narrowly, Attack Wide with High-Volume Crosses

Samaj is a mid-sized city on Cosumar's western plains - the first city you would finally see after emerging from the Great Attumac Desert if you crossed its length from the far more densely-populated east. It's an old-fashioned, rustic city by Cosumarite standards, notable for still using lots of clay architecture and relatively low adoption of Cosumar's public transport and implanted language microchips. Samaj FC is the only CosumarLigan-level club in the city and is well-supported despite traditionally limited finances. Many soccer fans in smaller towns throughout the western plains region adopt Samaj as "their” HL club as well. Well, either Samaj or their biggest rival - Helfin Fief FC to the north. Samaj has actually spent more of the CosumarLigan era in the Sekundar Ligan. Prior to this current golden era for the club under Luis Varezzi and now Lundblade, its biggest claim to fame was simply being where Cosumar legend Sur Arora got his start as a rookie. Their home kit (pictured right) features their iconic diagonal-split shirt and burnt-orange shorts. Their away kit this year is solid of the shade of dark yellow found on the collar to the right, with burnt-orange lettering.

Team Preview: Yes, they cleared the ominous hurtle presented by last off-season’s severe financial penalties, but I’d still be slightly concerned about Samaj after they won only two of their final eight games and didn’t score a single open-play goal in the final month. Admittedly, it was a tough season to grade fairly. They were in pure survival mode after being forced to sell several key players, but they’d gone above and beyond their means before, so… 14th must still rank as a disappointing return. No matter the circumstances, survival by just a few places simply isn’t good enough for a well-established HL team. Fortunately, they’re as strong as ever defensively – one of the most dreaded/respected back sixes in the league with the likes of Tomi Jakoljevic and Szalyk Földessy. It’s one with excellent chemistry, having remained largely unchanged for years. There’s work to do on the pointy end of the pitch, however. No team scored fewer goals than the Hunters last term, which makes it rather amazing that they stayed up as handily as they did. Testament to that defense again, and Johannes Lundblade’s renowned ability to organize a side. But Samaj desperately need goal scorers. Desperately. Hinode international Cherry Whitecastle impressed in the second half of last season across the attacking midfield, but they still need more. With the foreign transfer market shut, they’ll have to hope one of their glut of inexperienced strikers (Dario Gvetadze? Iker Totorikagoena? A wildcard from the academy?) can take the next step and displace uninspiring musclehead Adnan Jurevicius up top. Astrid Palmqvist’s crosses are too inviting and Rasunda Vanderlei sprays too many balls into good spots for this team to justify continuing to score barely a goal-per-game.
Last Season: 14th (11-7-16). Prediction: 13th.

Sur Arora (ST, 988)
Thomas Teverridge (CAM, 988-999)
Allen Huthson (CF, 998-1004)
Elaine Kayton (LM, 1001-1004)
Isadora Xenophon (CF, 1003-1008)
Terje "Valfar" Bakken Sognasen (DM, 1006-1012)

None in modern CosumarLigan era

FC KALDUKOSIC
Kaldukosic, Kaldukosic Fief

Nickname: Victors
Founded: 756
Ground: Leviathan Arena (99,000)
Manager: Cillian Najdorf (62)

Transfers In: Aidan Denarian (Pikemouth $4m)
Transfers Out: None

Starting XI (4-2-1-3): M. Flaksenhaar (26) - Friedmann (32), Satotxe (26), Rathskeller (31), Koehler (33) - Helbro (30 C), Hieri (24) - Ekeh (29) - Nisa (29), Denarian (28), Teika (26)
Key Reserves: Monvoyarrek (GK/21), Qotile (LB/27), Y. Flaksenhaar (CB/20), Na’Jhadur (DM/23), Grienblatt (CM/23), T. Flaksenhaar (LW/20), Bengochea (ST/28), Woetekker (ST/21)
Tactical Style: Defensive solidity first, possession-based attack

Despite an entire metropolitan hub of 16 million to draw support from, FC Kaldukosic has always been a case of unfulfilled potential. Sure, they’ve had spells of success. Six consecutive UICA berths at the dawn of the Härlighet Ligan. Three consecutive UICA berths from 1006-1008 as the culmination of the Corey Simmons Jr era. A few scattered trophies in the archaic years pre-CosumarLigan. But they’ve never been able to sustain true “big club” status or even rise above gridiron and basketball (Kaldukosic Kataklysm, Havok, Krushers…) in popularity in their own city. As a result, their nickname of “Victors” is somewhat ironic and often derided by opposing fans. Yet, FC Kal were at least a permanent HL fixture, never relegated… until 1009. They’ve only just now recovered. Is it also the dawn of an era in which FC Kaldukosic will finally truly live up to the great city they represent? Kaldukosic is one of the most important trade hubs in Atlantian Oceania, situated on the east coast of mainland Cosumarus, just south of Ramusok. The two cities' metro areas overlap to form one continuous megalopolis. Whereas Ramusok is known more for its artistic, historical and governmental importance, Kaldukosic is the mecca of Cosumarite big business. Home to booming tech, research, medical and financial industries. It has an older, more profession-oriented population than Ramusok and a higher average income. Not as much youthful energy in the nightlife and music scenes (or soccer support), but plenty of swanky, more luxurious clubs and hangouts. Moderate weather, humid in the summer. Leviathan Arena, former home of the national team, is infamous for having the steepest (and highest) stands of any stadium in Cosumar, and the colossal - even suffocating - atmosphere that results when the full 99k is sold out, though only the CFL’s Blazers regularly do so. Sitting up high and looking almost straight-down is not for fans faint of heart. At home, they wear a dark green shirt with white columns that curve towards the right shoulder and a luxurious yellow collar (pictured), paired with white shorts and dark green socks with thin yellow circles at the top. Their secondary kit is a crisp all-white shirt with dark green shorts.

Team Preview: Cillian Najdorf has a lot of goodwill stored up in Kaldukosic for returning FC Kal to the top flight and keeping them there in 1014, but he’s now having to cash some of it in after taking his side backwards last season and only just about staying above the danger zone. Relegation would have been a disaster, and very much unexpected given the positive start they had. They eventually picked it back up at the end when they needed to, but the entire middle half of the season was a rather wretched run. It became clear that the team is still far too dependent on Kaujarre Nisa for ideas going forward. When the Farf winger with an audacious eye for goal wasn’t fully fit or in-form or both, FC Kaldukosic were terrible viewing. Sporadic flashes aside, Inigo Bengochea has not progressed into the reliable goal man that was hoped for, and the midfield has struggled to keep up with the pace of the HL. Even this side’s obvious strength – its defense – is aging and could begin slowing at any time. FC Kaldukosic’s hopes of improvement this season, then, are largely dependent on new striker Aiden Denarian. Most have already forgotten, but the Cenian was actually the top scorer of the A-League two years ago, a type of pedigree that should instantly slot him in as the starter unless Bengochea receives the competition like a kick in the ass and suddenly becomes a lot more clinical in front of goal. WAIT A MINUTE. How did Kaldu land Denarian, you ask, amidst the FSF’s freeze on international transfers? Utilizing connections in the Immigration Administration’s Kaldukosic headquarters, the club was able to fast-track Denarian to green card status before the end of the window because he was technically already a part-time Cosumarite resident by virtue of an Azuris vacation home he purchased three years ago. If that ain’t some wizardry... With the rest of the league largely standing still, a big signing like Denarian could move the needle more than usual if he can work some wizardry in front of goal similar to what it took to sign him. Could.
Last Season: 15th (9-13-12). Prediction: 15th.

Corey Simmons Jr. (ST, 988-999) (MGR, 1003-present)
Grenville Antonsson (LW, 992-1004)
Dean Harold McSaunders (MF, 993-998, 1002-1008)
Chris Hodges (CF, 1000-1008)
Brian Litchmoor (CB, 1002-1014)
Georgina Wadimu (AM, 1003-1014)

King's Cup 1007

FC ZIEMELU SKAIDA
Samotath, Parougan Fief

Nickname: Halberdiers
Founded: 896
Ground: Blashyrk Gate (24,000)
Manager: Jakkrik Nimes (54)

Transfers In: Capsin Sibuc (FC Samotath $2.5m), Sol Myren (Eastweald $2m), Beatriz Koclanes (OAS Royal FC $2m), Ibrahim Arieli (Keenan Athletic $1m), Gregor Fitzhugh (Sontäfe City $0.4m), Lucien Marmor-Lavie (Duredain Barricade free)

First XI (4-3-3): Thomlin (30) – Myren (31), Brodecki (19), Sibuc (30 C), Marmor-Lavie (33) – Arieli (23), Amkura (25), Buarque (24) – St. Ann (20), Koclanes (26), Springgate (26)

Key Reserves: Fitzhugh (CB/29), Ingolfsson (RWB/28), Swittek (MF/23), Tonner (ST/22)
Tactical Style: “Extreme Man-Marking”: all ten players, box-to-box

Ziemelu Skaida was the name of an old pre-Cosumarite kingdom that occupied a small tract of land near what is now Samotath - the hub of Cosumar’s wild northeast. The name translates from ancient Cosumarite roughly as “northern sliver”. I know, creative. The warriors of Ziemelu Skaida were known their particularly ferocious use of halberds. Centuries later, a football club co-opted the name as an ode to local military history, waving giant foam halberds instead of flags in their supporter’s sections. Why military history? Well, the club was founded by Navy veterans! Cosumar’s principal naval base is on Samotath’s southern coast, so there was a sizable population of vets looking for a way to keep sharp and maintain community bonds after discharge. Little did they know that “FC Ziemelu Skaida” would go on to become fully professional over the coming century and eventually compete in a big-money enterprise like today’s Härlighet Ligan. Yet the club has long struggled to build a fanbase commensurate with its rising status. By the time Ziemelu was founded, FC Samotath had already been kicking around professionaly for 50 years or so and had developed a strangehold on the city’s loyalties with their theatrical, goal-frenzied antics. The Halberdiers, meanwhile, focused on fostering close ties with Parougan Fief’s military community and the neighborhoods in south Samotath near the coast (the stadium is 5 minutes downshore from the naval base).

Preview: It’s always nice to see new clubs get their first-ever taste of Härlighet Ligan shine, especially ones with a unique history like Ziemelu Skaida’s military roots (read above). This is a huge opportunity for a club that has always been a tightly-run ship (ha – Navy pun) yet still struggled to carve out a significant foothold in the flash-focused Samotath sports market. Their fans are incredibly loyal, but there aren’t a ton of them. If they can cement themselves in the top-flight, that could change. It’s unbelievably good timing from a competitive standpoint. Local juggernaut FC Samotath suffered their first-ever relegation in the SAME SEASON that Ziemelu are coming up for the first time. Suddenly, oft-overlooked Ziemelu find themselves with the top-flight monopoly that FC Samo have enjoyed in this huge market since CosumarLigan began. It’s like one of those fucking once-in-a-century eclipses. And the club seems to be taking all the right steps to grab the opportunity by the horns. They made a major bet on their HL future by expanding their Blashyrk Gate stadium by 6,000 seats immediately after securing promotion. They made their two cornerstone Sekundar Ligan stars very happy by re-signing them to shiny new contracts (defensive mid Ehab Amkura and winger Xandria Springgate). They even made an appeal to win over casual FC Samotath fans in town by signing the Black Hawks’ longtime top defender Capsin Sibuc, also a local lad. The other new signings also appear to be good bang-for-buck HL experience. Particularly intriguing is Beatriz Koclanes from OAS Royal, finally getting her chance to lead a frontline after a couple years as one of the most productive subs in the league. She was Royal’s third-leading scorer last season despite rarely starting. In the thick of her prime now, it’s easy to envision Koclanes thriving as the headliner at Ziemelu and scoaring 15+ goals. Springgate and dimunitive demon Cece St. Ann (probably the shortest attacker in the leaue) are the exactly the type of quick, incisive wingers she was used to making runs off of in Ramusok. There are questions though. Does right back stopgap Lucien Marmor-Lavie have anything left in the tank after an ill-fated Askari stint? Is goalkeeper Lamaj Thomlin up to snuff at this level after spending the majority of his career in the lower half of Sekundar Ligan? Is there enough creativity and quality in the midfield? Ehab Amkura is a titanic force winning the ball, but there’s not much else that looks like a sure bet. Fortunately, Jakkrik Nimes’ infamous system is about making opponents uncomfortable through sheer effort (close man-marking in EVERY phase of play and winning your individual battle) moreso than ability on the ball. Ziemelu have a unique style of play that they execute well and just enough quality in key spots to carry them. They were Sekundar Ligan champs for a reason despite not having the tip-top squad. I think they’ll stay up and claim some scalps along the way.
Last Season: Sekundar Ligan Champions (21-6-7). Prediction: 16th, Relegation Playoff.

Gustavo Quasarey (RW, 999-1003)
Pekka Mäntysaari (AM, 1001-1009)
Metán Cordéan (AM, 1005-1011)

Tredje Ligan Champions 1001
Sekundar Ligan Champions 1015

CENTUS SERPENTS
Centus, Gellano Fief

Nickname: Serpents
Founded: 924
Ground: Somerset Road (45,000)
Manager: Elwyn Romijnsen (48)

Transfers In: Corey Simmons III (OAS Royal $6.5m), Remington Abbasi-Fevison (Klyde $1.75m), Synara Redd (Pristine Forest $1.75m), Astor Zigfield (Goldstaff City $1m), Erridupizir Na’Verii (Sontäfe City $0.8m), Apolonia Olonniquin (Real Azuris loan), Harlan Sheriff (OAS Royal loan)

First XI (4-4-2): Redd (23) – Vadimenko (33), Jurist (36), Lineker (36), Tholanikunnal (27) – Abbasi-Fevison (26), Sheriff (18), Adikhari (28), Simmons III (32) – Velasquez (26), Olonniquin (18)

Key Reserves: Plekka (CB/20), Na’Verii (DM/27), Nürnyk (RW/18), Zigfield (ST/36)
Tactical Style: Bunker and Counter

Like FC Kaldukosic and Stoneshore United, Centus Serpents are one of those big eastern seaboard clubs that has fallen on harder times recently. The Serpents aren’t as storied as those other two however. They usurped the primordial AFC Centus for dominance in their own city only a couple decades before the Härlighet Ligan came along, after being purchased by talk show host and entertainment mogul Cressida Pensic. Centus is unexciting, but a much larger city than many outside Cosumar realize, so the Serpents have the volume of support to become UICA contenders. They just haven’t ever managed to compete at that level. Perhaps what they lack is a true rival to push them forwards. They technically have Gellano Fief derbies with Weald sides Mallox and Eastweald, but those two have always saved their fiercest hate for each other. On the Fief’s coast, separated geographically from the Weald by thick woodlands as well as culturally, they’ve become the forgotten third wheel of that triumvirate – especially in the decade since their last relegation. Their primary shirt is pictured right, worn with solid green shorts and red socks. Their secondary kit features a red+green shirt with white shorts, and hooped red/green socks.

Preview: Has it really been 12 years since Centus Serpents last competed in this league? After being a staple of the HL for most of its first two decades, an entire generation of kids has now almost grown up without memory of it. Man, I’m getting old. Their second-tier malaise hit rock bottom in 1012, when they finished 15th – only one place above the relegation zone. That was the wake-up call they needed. They looked to their alumni dossier for help, hiring former midfielder Elwyn Romijnsen after good work leading Regalia City to promotion from Tredje Ligan and stabiizing them in Sekundar Ligan. Romijnsen’s methods were a departure and took awhile to truly take hold. A disappointing finish of 10th place in 1013 had fans accusing him of the same ‘ole mediocrity. But owner Cressida Pensic kept faith and it paid off in fine stlye. 1014 was a major turnaround season, with Romijnsen’s Serpents in the top three for much of the season, though they fell short on the penultimate matchday. They managed the marathon better in 1015, starting slow but settling into 2nd in the second half of the season and staying there.

Romijnsen has a quiet intensity about him, not the sort of manager you can easily imagine flipping tables, but one who exerts his authority in more subtle ways. His philosophy is simple: line up in a basic universal 4-4-2 with mininal specific instruction, minimizing the amount of thinking his players have to do with the idea that this will allow them to always be proactive rather than reactive. Allow them to just play unburdened, free football. He talks about wanting his players to be the protagonists on the pitch, the ones making things happen, something that worked brilliantly last season. However, it’s not clear if they have the personnel to impose their style on opponents at this level. The Härlighet Ligan has improved a lot since the Serpents were last here. They went out and got a “name” in former Cosumar international winger Corey Simmons III to help with the marketing push for their HL return (even if he’s looked past his prime the last couple seasons), but other than him – there’s a distinct lack of starpower. The driving presence of two-way midfielder Farrokh Adikhari is perhaps the exception. You could argue that the Serpents’ lack of reliance on any one player is a strength, but there are so many new arrivals that it’s doubtful their team cohesion will immediately be the same as it was last year. Chief among those are young Sekundar Ligan standout goalkeeper Synara Redd, a more conventional wide mid in Klyde’s Remington Abbasi-Fevison opposite the tricks and flicks of Simmons III, and a pair of hyped teenage loanees in OAS’s Harlan Sheriff and Azuris’ Apolonia Olonniquin. It will be up to Romijnsen to cobble these pieces into a winning team again. Except this time, he only has one season over which to do it rather than three. The club is betting that the overall improvement of quality will outweigh the expected initial “re-learning curve” by season’s end.

Personally, the Sheriffs and Olonniquins of this squad aren’t my chief concern. They also signed Erridupizir Na’Verii and ageless poacher Astor Zigfield in case the two golden kids weren’t ready. I’m more worried about the incumbent players that the club is casting its lot with. Adam Vadimenko and ex-Stahlburg duo Catheline Jurist and Conan Lineker have comprised one of the most formidable back lines in the Sekundar Ligan for years. Even when the Serpents were bad, their defense was faultless. They complement each other well and have otherworldly understanding of each others’ positioning at all times. If this jump had come a couple of years ago, they’d be more than fine, but now - frankly – they’re old as fuck. Although they’ve miraculously avoided any injuries or significant declines between them, this is a lot of burden to place on three mid-30s players at this point in their careers. The Fanaiyans of the world - the most athletic HL forwards - should feast on them. I don’t think they’ll have the goals to keep up either. Top scorer Arthur Velasquez has been great value in Sekundar Ligan after signing as a free transfer from Super-Llamaland, but he’s the type of undersized, unrefined pace merchant who doesn’t usually translate well coming up. We’ll see. There’s talent in this team, just… not enough known HL commodities. Basically, they look like a stellar Sekundar Ligan team.
Last Season: 2nd Place in Sekundar Ligan (17-11-6). Prediction: 18th, Relegation.

Johannes Sulo (CM, 976-985)
Jukka Lindroos (LB, 994-998)
Akira Eld (MGR, 1001-1006)
Duane Cornish (CB, 998-1006)
Leo Mulsen (GK, 999-1011)

Sekundar Ligan Champions 998

STONESHORE UNITED
Port Stoneshore, Stoneshore Fief

Nickname: Greys
Founded: 771
Ground: SweetHaven Stadium (40,000 w upper deck covered)
Manager: Jerrell Drake (39)

Transfers In: Kurt Wolff (Real Azuris $5m), Domé Odóma (Fevelo Colony $3.5m), Thoralf Brynjolfsson + Les Katholos (Helfin Fief $1.5m), McCall Kirby (FC Samotath $0.75m), Françoise Lanoisemide (Stoneshore Fief University)

First XI (5-3-2): Dane (36) - Carra (35), Haahr (26), Brynjolfsson (26), Wolff (28), Rollins (23) – Tychicus (23), Kirby (29), Gölöncsér (21) – Odóma (20), Haagensen (29)
Key Reserves: Lo Duca (GK/22), Senterekoesima (LB/37), Fogarty (CB/19), DeVolder (RWB/34), Katholos (CM/29), Mammes (MF/18), Lanoisemide (ST/19)
Tactical Style: Disciplined defense, long balls into space

Stoneshore United have been around a long time. Or, at least, Stoneshore AFC and the Stoneshore Sirens were before they 'united' ahead of entry into the inaugural Härlighet Ligan. One of several such consolidations of local support bases that occurred during the switch to CosumarLigan in the 980s. Whether that trend was good or bad for the Cosumarite game is a frequent debate. Anyways, Stoneshore AFC were legendary - one of Cosumar's winningest clubs in the old days - but haven't been quite as successful since merging. One thing has remained intact though: the Stoneshore Stonewall. Stoneshore football has always been about strong, ruthlessly physical defenses. Supporters relished hard tackles and aerial challenges as much as goals and still sing about their "Stonewall" at every match. Maybe this hardnosed mentality has something to do with Stoneshore also being a huge gridiron city. Maybe not. Either way, you have to have a certain toughness to live in Stoneshore. Possibly one of the most bleak cities in AO, it is perpetually foggy and rainy. This is no exaggeration. The tip of Cosumar's southern peninsula is literally shrouded in a thick, ominous fog every day. It's common to be unable to clearly see one goal from the other. This landscape inspired the club's colors and nickname. They wear famous all-grey at home. Shirt pictured. The shorts have some maroon and white side-patterning like on the shoulders. On the road, they wear blue and white hoops with solid blue shorts and blue/white hooped socks.

Team Preview: Although Stoneshore came 3rd last season, many pundits are looking at them as the promoted side of the three with the best chance to stay up. Much of that reasoning seems based on the fact that they are a traditionally big club with recent Härlighet Ligan experience and infrastructure. Forunately, third-year manager Jerrell Drake realized that this alone wouldn’t be enough and made sure that the Greys were aggressive in this competitive domestic-only transfer window. That recent HL pedigree gave them the money and credibility to land top Cosumarite transfers like HL-winning Azuris center back Kurt Wolff and last season’s breakout 16-goal striker, Fevelo Colony youth Domé Odóma. The promotion also came at the perfect time. Stoneshore’s own top youths, deep-lying playmaker Tychicus and Pasargan attacking midfielder Benci Gölöncsér – driving forces of last season’s promotion push – had one year left on their contracts and likely would’ve left their boyhood club otherwise. They’re young, but they’ve already cut their teeth at this level as teens, and in addition to Wolff this squad is littered with other proven HL-quality veterans like left winger/back Ali Carra and midfield water-carrier McCall Kirby to help guide the way. Nominally a 5-3-2, Stoneshore’s system flexes between a sturdy 5-4-1 in defense (the “Stoneshore Stonewall” as ironclad as ever with giants Thoralf Brynjolfsson and Jurg Haahr alongside Wolff in the middle) and a 3-4-1-2 in attack when they spring forward on the counter. Those are often initiated with a pinpoint long ball from Tychicus to one of the flying wingbacks or even straight over the top to the pacy Odóma, with cunning Athena Haagensen and Gölöncsér their to support and clean up any scraps. As always for a team coming up, Stoneshore United face a dogfight to stay in the league, but they’re as equipped as any team in recent memory to do so.
Last Season: 3rd in Sekundar Ligan (18-7-9). Prediction: 14th.

William Riley (LB, 956-966)
Justinian Singleton (CB, 997-1009)
Adren Stefansen (GK, 999-1011)

Sekundar Ligan Champions 1006

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COSUMARITES ABROAD JOINING NEW CLUBS
Horatius Chaumancer (CB, 23, Centralis Heart) has joined Northern Union (BRE) for $6 million
Metán Cordéan (AM, 30, Southfell United) has joined KT Itzalovalle (AUD) for $2 million
Renaud Fournier (GK, 34, Dinamo Sainati) has joined Mantlegrove (NPH) on free transfer
Mei Hamilton (RB, 28, Cypher Town) has joined Coret Hawks (NPH) for $3 million
Sett Horn (CF, 26, Diamondqueen) has joined Lammerton (SCT) for $3 million
Asaj Sotelo (CM, 35, Mytos-Turin) has joined KT Moreazerua (AUD) on free transfer
Elspeth Wykker (RW, 23, Evenfar FC) has joined Harkdown (EUR) for $3 million


OTHER RETIREMENTS
Notable foreigners and capped Cosumarites marked by flag

Miguel Cano (ST, 38, Aznavour OSC)
Dez Cloaker (ST, 35, IFK Aldenskoett)
Festus Cree (DM, 35, Helfin Fief)
Brandon Duguid (CB, 38, IFK Aldenskoett)
Robbie Guerricaechevarria (CM, 39, Helfin Fief)
Harry Killebrew (CB, 37, SSC Honneur)
Jeremy McNott (GK, 38, Na’Ilee Mariners)
Bram Merchant (GK, 38, IFK Aldenskoett)
Justin Swarthimore (RM, 34, Fevelo Colony)
Kaden Wing (CB, 37, LSC Dunelan)

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[Cosumar]

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FC Samotath
Best Players: ST Mako Silanii, CM Spyridon Kolitsidakis

Fevelo Colony
Best Players: CM Scion Keldian, GK Andris Berzins

Goldstaff City
Best Players: CAM Koru Özturk, CB Liam Toivonen

Zakhoro Aces
Best Players: DM Neptune Jödegaard, LB Ensa Camara

IFK Aldenskoett
Best Players: ST Declan Smith, CM Imanol Uranga

Helfin Fief
Best Players: ST Adrien Borges, RB Conrad Trelliston

Na'Ilee Mariners
Best Players: RW Sezon Na’Sugadaleh, CM Louise Crost

Morponte Fief
Best Players: RB Jorj Pjetrovic, ST Moor Abbasi

Gwynt Tywyll
Best Players: GK Cema Creed, CM Ferdinand Absalon

FC Flen
Best Players: FW Nine Nokkentvek, DM Lea Minter

Versiaville
Best Players: CF Sirena Va'Drevu, LM Eugenio Prescott

Regalia City
Best Players: LW Maze Spinnaker, CB Matthias Whyteleafe

Revanigruud Riversharks
Best Players: MF Ronson Ramirez, ST Tegsune Na’Japuna

Pristine Forest
Best Players: RB Night Frost, ST Kawana Na’Wannah

West Gundar
Best Players: DM Prisma Zalzaria, CB Jericho Bonn

Otkins Numenvernia
Best Players: LW Ova Va’Vuva, DM Egetukeh Vu’Tukuje

Cassandra Cosmopolitan
Best Players: CF Huzefugha Na'Bwama, GK Mathann Solvay

Seryddwyr Aberaeron
Best Players: CAM Erwan Writ, RM SaraLee Guzman-Cruz

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Sontäfe City
Nomad Brotherhood FC
IFK Sundsvall
Riverside Crew
Sindo Fief
Fort Archer
AFC Obscura 98
Pardock Island
Klyde Heritage FC
Rexnor District 3
AC Sepultura
Portsmouth FC
Bergtatt Isle Athletic
White Tower FC
SC Torpedo Kejsarkona
Nuur Origins FC
Atletisk Surpronuk
Esterhollow Harbor
Gnoss Gallants AFC
Sarmon
Sadenia Paladins
Dvinko Black Heart

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Conference Cosumarus

Everlong FC
Azure Lane FC
West Devellin
Brayllor Town
Forest Hill FC
Hvalsey 08
Larkinham Town
Yambridge City
Tamiat Town
Dawchire Town
Hagenheim South End
Talmusok City
Cassandra City II
Crawford Sharks SC
Volmachtia Kaldukosic
Woods of Ypres
East Devellin
High Noon FC
Highlanders
Real Bellavista
Sporting Culmar
Gamma City Zakhoro
AFC Centus
AFC Wernersburg
Ajatarra Alligators
Jotungard 99 FC
FC Va’Lubasa
Sporting Pirankoper


Conference KC

Caledon Legion
Rexnor District 5
Tierra Interstellar Wanderers
Tornline
Silk FC
Salfa City
Sammet Ridge
Aberaeron Celtic
Kalloroda United
Meryuma Marshals
CD Panteras Nueces
Treacherous Cove AFC
Aläng FF
Interstellar Erurok
Emerald Cove
Wiedna Town
Wilmontsbloom Blue Star
Erpland County
FC Dynamo Kurbads
Tranquility Treepolis

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Atlético Oterro
Klyde City
Sólstafir
VfL Läutenstadt
Usk Town
IFK Nordön
FK Pentagram Pjattervid
Hamlack Town
Svart-Guld Klingaställe
Real Azuris II
Villa Forsetti
FC Kviststad
Noumen Town
Gwerin Athletic
Moggington County
Atletisk Kvelertak
Cerulia City FC
Flithby Town
Satyricon Nemeses AFC
Gibwir Marsnal
Glasbon SC
Ardamirchan Isle United
Baymar Lagune
Oppland 806
Noths Castle
Orias-Kvissle SC
Oxbow Lake
Lindsborg Premier
Klyde II
Gamlasir




AC Opjenheim
Wealdheim Bards
Chesterton Cottagers
Cadonica United
Cape Dutch Copperheads
Somberlain FC
Atletisk Östrad
Ingleton Town
Coppell City FC
FC Samotath II
Marshall-Blue FC
Östrad Rockets FC
Dusk Athletic
Scarromere FC
FC Stellendam
East Gundar
Zirconim City
Paulsendam Town
Nabataea
IFK Sokuldijak
United FC of Stoneshore
Sporting Corrian
1. FC Guggenheim
Interstellar Östrad
Ramusok United II
FC Kaldukosic II
OAS Royal FC II
Eastweald II
Mallox II
IFK Keukenhok




Black Diamond Osterhaut
Club Toftir
Gladsax Chariot FC
Moore Hill Pirates
Scarborough
FC Kastanjestad
SC Cirith 01
Lykathea City
FC Fejd
Attumac Wanderers
Malm Town
Mintwick Marmots
Goldsoul FC
Gorgoroth
Hassaburess Athletic
Austentrapp City FC
Carnessa County
Impera Town
Columbia Town
Briquia Southside FC
Keldin Town
FC Invierness 912
Morponte Fief II
Ombra Castle
Harlegan Rovers
Club Varden
Heofoncandel Uré
Taigaen Plats
Nexus Magens FC
Braumhill




Falco Na’Diveh
Rhithlungwerddon Town
Inter Juta
IFK Karlsborg
SC Swamport
Stortrommeby Town
Ayr Athletic
Olympique Sur Mer
West Ellum
Grayslake
SEP Bjärnum
Yellow Meadow Lynwood
Klovstad Klub
Bayford City
Chamomile Town
Crawford City FC II
East Ellum
Rhupenhoven Town
Yuonela Town
FC Arkadius
Tromsdale Town
FC Na'Travii
Thergothon
Drummond's FC
Duval Town
Theli City
Miklagaard Salvation
Red Star Karbosic
FC1. Richtofen Avalanche
Goldstaff Athletic




Levithia Shrievenzale
Rhodes Ravens AFC
Kreanoltha Vipers
Templar-Lune FC
Drahva United
Buscari Bridge Force
Varvonti Firestorm
Piander Falls FC
Alstagruuket Sarlaccs FC
Murkwaamp Suns
Borzac Sequins
Rexnor District 7
Ciems Mungonduvia
NOVIA Alliance
Tonsei Tumult
Orion Wanderers
Marinus City
Menoptera United SC
Romstafar Outpost
Rexnor District 4
Rexnor District 2
Rexnor District 6
Rexnor District 8
Rexnor District 9
Sporting Club Macofor
Dockery Union
Exxeco Station
Whitestone Athletic
New Hagenheim Canopy
Snaigow Hoarfrost