The Almanac of Astograthian Domestic Sports

by **Astograth** » Sat Dec 25, 2021 2:08 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 689 Preview – Part 3 (The Relegation Battle)

Antiguoko FC, est. 514
Ground: The Enclave (45,058), Antiguoko
Colours: Red and white quarters, red shorts and socks
Major rivals: Gesterlake FC, Royal Arexa (both historic)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Yogutz (dairy)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 10.1 M
Seasons in the First Division: 18 of 44
Starting Lineup: aGKa Azubeli Arana, aLBa Hats Lizondo, aCBa Alundra (DAI), aCBa Adon Aburto, aRBa Arrosko Zugazti, aDMa Guchi Oyea, aDMa Tier Chardin (KOR), aLMa Raj Gupta (ETN), aRMa Thierry Cailleux (HIN), aAMa Uzuri Borthagaray, aCFa Mazuste Igerabide
Bench: aGKa Ada Robertson (SCT), aGKa Hanot Echeto, aLBa Aratz Iarritu, aCBa Otsando Erramundeguy, aCBa Hanot Benaza ©, aCBa Inguma Labat, aRBa Sugoi Iniurrigarro, aDMa David Brandon (IGR), aLMa Ortze Leibar, aRMa Yaël La Reyne (OAM), aCMa Zufiaurre Izurieta, aAMa Haitz Hargindegi, aCFa Kaiet Izurrategi, aCFa Hegazti Idarreta, aCFa Edur Ustarroz
Manager: Agoztar Ilarduya, 2nd season in charge
Club reputation: Combative, tireless. Pride of the city and the region.
Fans’ expectation: Mid-table finish
Pundits’ prediction: 14th of 20
Notes: There is a grumbling around Antiguoko. Fans criticise the board’s lack of ambition and allowing the squad to stagnate while selling off the players the club needs to rise above mediocrity. Some of their vitriol they also reserve for manager Agoztar Ilarduya, who has not endeared himself to supporters after just barely staying clear of the relegation zone last season. This season Antiguoko have made a lot of money offloading striker Mâánéràtö Jíí to Ituraitz FC, whom not many in Antiguoko will miss, and then proceeded to spend a small amount of their earnings on modest purchases. People are losing patience – either results improve or something will give.

Echegoyan FC, est. 530
Ground: Silanes Park (55,140), Echegoyan
Colours: Green and white stripes, green shorts and socks
Major rivals: Blue Mountain Range (The Echegoyan Derby), Miners FC (local), Astograth University (competitive)
Major honours: 3 First Division titles, 1 Royal Cup, 1 Ides of March Cup
Main sponsor: Enersuntsu (alternative energy)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 9.5 M
Seasons in the First Division: 41 of 44
Starting Lineup: aGKa Perucho Garabieta ©, aLBa Aitor Errendasoro, aCBa Koldobika Orbegozo, aCBa Kamil Zinkovsky (MYT), aRBa Isusko Keno, aDMa Baladi Treko, aLMa Oinaz Kamon, aRMa Deunoro Loyola, aAMa Mederi Marien, aCFa Petrigai Orneta, aCFa Telá Potos (TIO)
Bench: aGKa Barto Wahl (ZRH), aGKa Itzaina Hegichussy, aLBa Lehoi Uribeondo, aCBa Lander Kahe, aCBa Pudes Urket, aCBa Aurre Lete, aRBa Dominix Renteria, aDMa Enetz Tutor, aLMa Marco Martingorena, aCMa Rosenthorpe Thompsen (CMT), aRMa Lauaxeta Lamikiz, aAMa Sasoin Bibanko, aCFa Erlantz Berhabe, aCFa Zabal Alkatena, aCFa Argider Barber
Manager: Iban Bachiondo, 3rd season in charge
Club reputation: Hardy, tough, always up for a fight. Cheating bastards to many. Top team long ago, now on the margins.
Fans’ expectation: Mid-table finish
Pundits’ prediction: 15th of 20
Notes: After falling down to the second tier, last season’s 13th-place was a good finish in Echegoyan’s return to the First Division. Now fans and the board want to continue stabilising the club, though they may be taking for granted how easy that will be, even with talismanic manager Iban Bachiondo at the helm. Their inversion of fortunes with rivals Blue Mountain Range still rubs salt in the wound. Nevertheless, in order to set things right the club have invested good money into young right-back Isusko Keno, formerly of Royal Ibarbe, and into Tió forward Telá Potos, former starter at Ituraitz FC. One signing has stoked controversy, though: bringing in 37-year-old striker Zabal Alkatena for one last season before retirement has been criticised as pure nostalgia on behalf of Iban Bachiondo, who managed Alkatena at Echegoyan in his glory years – a decade ago. Even if Alkatena lives up to his past, Echegoyan’s defence and midfield remain suspect.

Miners FC, est. 515
Ground: The Lieutenant (14,700), Echegoyan
Colours: Red with black sash, black shorts, red socks
Major rivals: Echegoyan FC, Blue Mountain Range (both local)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Ondraka (hardware)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★ / Youth system ★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 7.2 M
Seasons in the First Division: 12 of 44
Starting Lineup: aGKa Bryan Pierce (XAN), aLBa Agosti Irachet, aCBa Zohiartze Urkia, aCBa Argider Obieta ©, aRBa Sigurdur Arjonsson (SVJ), aDMa Errando Belastegi, aDMa Michaut Agos, aLMa Frantzes Benzoa, aCMa Lehoiar Oztolaza, aRMa Totakoxe Ansolidoa, aCFa Darian Bloodoff (TKT)
Bench: aGKa Firmo Ospital, aGKa Gauargi Oria, aLBa Eztebe Pinedo, aCBa Igor Arraiz, aCBa Urritz Duhau, aCBa Azibar Marrokin, aRBa Haitz Elosu, aDMa Urbasa Kruzalegi, aDMa Valery Babykin (PYA), aCMa Lapurdi Muruaga, aLMa Xanti Izpura, aRMa Lizar Tafaya, aAMa Echekopar Urtazu, aCFa Axular Mendiberry, aCFa Ekaitz Biyoch
Manager: Zeruko Orregi, 5th season in charge
Club reputation: The odd-men-out of Echegoyan, forever yo-yoing between divisions. Small club, very close to their loyal supporters.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 16th of 20
Notes: Miners continue to scrape by, selling off players for petty cash while running up unknowable amounts of debt. This season they’ve at least sold striker Xantalen Gastambide to Sporting Iturributa for a solid chunk of money, but they’ve needed to spend even more on rebuilding half their starting eleven: in come playmaker Lehoiar Oztolaza from Athletic Olarria, Tikariotian forward Darian Bloodoff from Urizaharra, Xannerian goalkeeper Bryan Pierce from Dockyard Oaks, experienced wingers Xanti Izpura and Totakoxe Ansolidoa from Ituraitz Victory, and Frantzes Bensoa on loan from Urbizania Wanderers. These are radical changes and the question everyone needs answering is whether Zeruko Orregi can get this ragtag squad into fighting shape – the raw materials are certainly enough to stay in the top flight, but will they gel?

Urbitzo FC, est. 526
Ground: Champion Lane (22,180), Urbitzo
Colours: Blue with white sash, blue shorts, white socks
Major rivals: Oyardo FC (local), Urizaharra FC (regional)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Okinaga (watercraft and motorcycles)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★ / Youth system ★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 7 M
Seasons in the First Division: 5 of 44
Starting Lineup: aGKa Urtzi Dolagaray ©, aLBa Johan Coalfield (BRE), aCBa Anartz Ugeruaga, aCBa Ixidor Esnoz, aRBa Ward Cullen (NPH), aDMa Mederi Oilhaborda, aDMa Martin Staunt-Anderson (ZWZ), aLMa Ambe Eskibel, aRMa Xalbador Achabalastra, aAMa Gabon Saralegi, aCFa Duenerth Dufour (GVN)
Bench: aGKa Keop Karrikaberry, aGKa Xuban Landaberry, aLBa Ivon Berout (OAM), aCBa Todor Belarde, aCBa Kepa Egigorry, aCBa Aberri Binion, aRBa Enaut Araoz, aDMa Zigor Charo, aDMa Ruisko Zarazua, aDMa Todor Biota, aLMa Neil Broadhead (TMB), aRMa Bordat Moroy, aAMa Jake Swisher (SFD), aCFa Altzibar Aldonate, aCFa Ambe Derdoy
Manager: Agoztar Gorstiaga, 6th season in charge
Club reputation: Jealous of rival Oyardo's prior success, anxious for some of their own. Looked down upon - 50 years to get into the top flight?
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 17th of 20
Notes: Urbitzo have made strong signings in defence, replacing their centre-back pairing with the proven, BMR-trained Anartz Ugeruaga and with the young Ixidor Esnoz from Astograth University. This should go a ways toward addressing the issues at the back that dogged their last campaign, where a single point saved from relegation. But the issues at the other end of the pitch, on attack, remain unresolved; unless his teammates step up like they haven’t before, Duenerth Dufour will continue having to carry the offence almost singlehandedly.

Basabe Old Boys, est. 516
Ground: New Beltzura Stadium (46,000), Basabe
Colours: Red shirt, white shorts, red socks
Major rivals: Basabe Youth (local), Athletic Club Basabe (local), Oyardo FC (regional), Dockyard Oaks (local)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: KAT (steel)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 5.6 M
Seasons in the First Division: 13 of 44
Starting Lineup: aGKa Declan Davies (HVY), aLBa Hitz Suardiaz, aCBa Eguntsenti Zamakona, aCBa Elatzar Kasuriaga, aRBa Eleanor Schaefer (NPH), aDMa Hegoi Alberbide, aDMa Xuban Sarasketa, aLMa Jules Loisel ©, aRMa Chilar Oyonarte, aAMa Osoitz Yarsabal, aCFa Ubendu Usandizaga
Bench: aGKa Yeremi Subasnabar, aGKa Hanni Uribarri, aLBa Francis Alchu, aCBa Gomesano Mediano, aCBa Erroman Klaberia, aCBa Firmo Sorhondo, aRBa Gaston Echabarne, aDMa Apal Amutio, aDMa Yosepe Bezunartea, aLMa Alesander Iriso, aRMa Bide Izarriaga, aAMa Errando Evans, aAMa Laurgain Garakoch, aCFa Andima Arainty, aCFa Hanni Angiano
Manager: Min Yanguas, 3rd season in charge
Club reputation: From a massive city with very fractured support. An alright team, but many suspect they could do a lot better.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 18th of 20
Notes: Basabe Old Boys appear confident that the squad with which they earned promotion will be enough to survive in the First Division – it’s worked for them before! Pundits are not so convinced this time. Old Boys have made three very good signings in Nepharan right-back Eleanor Schaefer, Havyn goalkeeper Declan Davies, and Iturributa United-trained striker Ubendu Usandizaga, but the rest of the squad, especially in defence, remains fragile. That said, of the three promoted teams they seem the most likely to stay up.

Astograth University, est. 553
Ground: Arritzola (36,350), Rumiatzi
Colours: White and sky blue halves, sky blue shorts, white socks
Major rivals: Army United, South Factory, Royal Rumiatzi, Athletic Club Rumiatzi (all local), Urbizania Wanderers (regional), Echegoyan FC (competitive)
Major honours: 2 First Division titles, 3 Royal Cups, Aéropag Football Invitational 23
Main sponsor: Koedalad (NGO)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 6.1 M
Seasons in the First Division: 33 of 44
Starting Lineup: aGKa Gunutz Sagarribay, aLBa Haitz Erriest, aCBa Selatse Yrigoy, aCBa Arixo Salayaran, aRBa Zabal Barendiain, aDMa Jin Shirong (YZH), aDMa Gartzen Oyo, aLMa Urre Unamunzaga ©, aRMa Unax Fernandez, aAMa Garchot Dirassar, aCFa Echachu Urtazu
Bench: aGKa Bladi Gorospe, aGKa Eleazar Leniz, aLBa Churio Berrozpe, aCBa Nuxila Uhartemendia, aCBa Hotz Balerdi, aCBa Argoitz Larruy, aRBa Adur Hiriart, aDMa Mederi Elisalde, aDMa Bilbo Errainz, aCMa Maore Ezama, aLMa Inautzi Soyo, aRMa Keop Benda, aAMa Aurre Sarasola, aCFa Larendi Urgain, aCFa Ximun Barona
Manager: Lekubegi Guerrikaechebarria, 3rd season in charge
Club reputation: The club of the Rumiatzi middle class. Once a top team, now long fallen. Desperate to regain status.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 19th of 20
Notes: Astograth University have finally made their way back to the First Division after 5 gruelling years in the second tier. The architect of it has been their former star player turned manager Lekubegi Guerrikaechebarria, who himself has earned redemption from his previously disastrous career in management. This University team, as always, prioritises defence, and they have spent a fair amount of money in reinforcing it by signing Arixo Salarayan off Dockyard Oaks, former national team centre-back Selatse Yrigoy from Royal Rumiatzi, and Yue defensive midfielder Jin Shinrong, also from Dockyard Oaks. The biggest news, however, is the massive transfer fee paid to lift Royal Ibarbe’s playmaker: 1.5 million diru for Garchot Dirassar in a true declaration of intent. Despite the solid starting eleven, pundits have taken note of the dearth of depth in the squad, the general lack of top flight experience, and Guerrikaechebarria’s tendency to eventually crash his teams into the mud. University are not expected to do well, though their history is one of exceeding expectations.

Iturributa Racing Club, est. 475/500 (disputed)
Ground: The Hippodrome (22,160), Iturributa
Colours: Orange with black stripe, orange shorts and socks
Major rivals: Garitzeta Racing Club (The Racing Derby), Sporting Iturributa (local), Iturributa United (local), Royal Association (local-political)
Major honours: 3 Iturributan President's Cups
Main sponsor: The Legaspi Fund (NGO)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 4.8 M
Seasons in the First Division: 10 of 44
Starting Lineup: aGKa Marchel Ekwekwe, aLBa Eneko Lakaya ©, aCBa Mederi Doxage, aCBa Olar Zumaran, aRBa Gorbea Gogenola, aDMa Hubert Courtois, aCMa Ur Bustinse, aCMa Yaunzuria Urgoiti, aLMa Zabal Zarasaga, aRMa Etor Aranket, aCFa Lore Urkidi
Bench: aGKa Sesuldo Besga, aGKa Musko Errasti, aLBa Erauso Errandonea, aCBa Aitziber Geikoechea, aCBa Yasone Isarralde, aCBa Urdin Orortegi, aRBa Garoa Reterto, aDMa Lore Eskosteguy, aCMa Kismi Kaizeda, aCMa Gabirel Narbais, aLMa Echepare Lapitzondo, aRMa Urtungo Ureta, aAMa Orkatz Ligorria, aCFa Zeledon Ozta, aCFa Yaizki Poyo
Manager: Osasun Olagibe, 3rd season in charge
Club reputation: Associated with the Iturributan aristocracy. Variously accused of being a slush fund or sportswashing front for the Legaspi family of mining magnates.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 20th of 20
Notes: Manager Osasun Olagibe guided Iturributa Racing to their third Second Division title, beating Basabe Old Boys on the final matchday to draw level on points and win the league on head-to-head results. It was a thriller of a season, but with the curtains drawn and the club now in the top flight after 7 seasons down, the present seems grim. Signings have been limited to Athletic Olarria’s substitute goalkeeper Marchel Ekwekwe and experienced right-back Gorbea Gogenola from Echegoyan, but the board (or more accurately, the owners) seem uninterested in the type of spending required to overhaul the squad and secure permanence in the First Division. Promotion was enough of a fluke as it is, and with little movement in the transfer window Iturributa Racing seem like a remarkably second-tier side trying to play among the big boys. Their saving grace could be the remarkable young talent they have fostered at the club, such as (the fully Astograthian) Hubert Courtois, 19-year-old midfielder Yaunzuria Orgoiti, and the precocious Kismi Kaizeda.

by **Astograth** » Sat Dec 25, 2021 7:39 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 689 Review

The 44th season of the Astograthian Football League is now concluded.

First Division

15 years of hurt. That is how long it took Iturributa United to reclaim the First Division title, their fifth. 15 years, the longest period of time they have gone without a league title, through all the many leagues they have taken part in across their 165-year history. For Brenecian manager Justin Vauxhall it was 6 years of pain, of being questioned at every turn, of failing just short, of being threatened with losing his job. Now his Iturributa United have notched the second most dominant campaign since the First Division’s restart: the title was won with three matches to spare and a 9-point advantage over hated rivals Sporting Iturributa, plus the head-to-head advantage. United managed to combine an ironclad defence led by Savojarnan centre-back Janne Toivanen – voted third-best player of the season – with the attacking power of its forward quartet, composed of Pristina Shine, Lukas Bright, Fangti Pikolaugh and Echeberri Herrekalde. Pristina Shine, awarded the honour of Best Player of the Season, scored 27 goals on her own, accounting for a third of United’s bounty; together with Lukas Bright, they made up almost 60% of the team’s goals. Things finally clicking for Vauxhall’s side has wiped clean the doubts surrounding the manager and his squad, now hailed as heroes of the Scarlet Stripe. Supporters will not soon forget the doldrums of these 15 years, and are eager to move on from them into a new golden era. In the Challengers Cup this season, Iturributa United got as far as the group stage, finishing 3rd; highlights of their run included a 7–1 aggregate destruction of Oljestaden IF and a 2–2 draw with Rülândéá Kôstä (followed by a less glorious 0–5 away loss). Pristina Shine scored 11 goals across 12 international matches, including the brace against Kôstä.

The team most rankled by United’s victory is, naturally, Sporting Iturributa. Not only because their rivals finally broke the curse and won the First Division, but because Sporting have once again finished league runners-up – the 4th time in 5 seasons – in what feels like a big joke at their expense. Moreover, the tally of the two Iturributan Derbies ended in United’s favour: a 2–2 draw where Shine and Herrekalde equalised from an Ohashi Kiichi brace, and a 1–0 triumph for United delivered via Fangti Pikolaugh. This advantage allowed United to claim the title with 9 points still in play, deepening the humiliation. One silver lining is that Cheney Bittencourt’s first season was manager was, points-wise, significantly better than their last two – 76 points would, in fact, have won Sporting the title in either of the last two seasons. Right-back Baiona Menduburu, defensive midfielder Ferena Rauch, winger Jeremiah Ruiz, and playmaker Gilamu Bengoechea received particular praise for their performances, with Bengoechea named the second-best player of the season. In the Challengers Cup, Sporting did one better than their rivals, reaching the Round of 32 before bowing out to Freeport United. Their finest moment came in the group stage, beating KT Itzalovalle of Audioslavia 3–0 at home and 2–1 away.

Royal Rumiatzi had a terrific first half of the season, stringing together results such as a 5–0 demolishing of Echegoyan FC and Danica Marinkovic’s four-goal spectacular against Iturributa Racing Club. They finished the first 19 matches top of the league with 42 points, the same as Iturributa United and ranked above them on goal difference. From there, it was only down. A series of draws and a decisive 1–2 home loss to Iturributa United built a difference that Royal Rumiatzi were never able to surmount. It set them on a downward spiral, further losing to Sporting Arkamo, Gortz United, and Bakartirla Buccaneers; they sank well out of the title picture and needed to rally late in the season . An injury to captain and talismanic striker Martin Blessed ruled him out for much of the final third of the season and the team suffered a harsh shortage of goals in his absence; even so, Rumiatzi clawed their way back up to 3rd place, at least earning top billing for the Challengers Cup – a marked improvement from completely missing out on IFCF competition. Altogether, compared to their 13-3-3 record in the first half, Rumiatzi’s second was a paltry 8-6-5, adding up to just 30 points; comparing their goal record is even more dramatic, with 43 versus 22 goals scored. Accusations have flown all around the club, with manager Jaffacake-Phillips complaining he hasn’t yet had the time and freedom to build the squad he wants – an excuse hard for fans to swallow, considering Rumiatzi have by far the deepest and most expensive team in the league.

Urbizania Wanderers also had a strong season – 71 points – which nevertheless left them in just fourth place. It was a campaign of strong individual performances – most notably Brandon Irving, whose 24 goals made him second top scorer in the league, as well as midfielder Yoshimi Hirahito and goalkeeper Dieje Ibrelaná. Frustration with manager Eriz Bakaikoa is slowly mounting, particularly considering their exit from the Challengers Cup in the qualification phases; cooler heads should prevail, however. Wanderers had a solid season in which no one was able to keep up with Iturributa United’s pace. Rounding out the list of IFCF teams are defending champions Gortz United, who never looked likely to repeat their title win but who are well on their way to staking their claim as part of a new Big 5 – out with Ituraitz, in with Gortz. Tomofumi Ishimoda continues to be a lethal player, ending the season as joint-third top scorer, with 21 goals; new signing Shiloh Morgenstern also immediately proved his quality, becoming a fan favourite by way of 12 goals in the league. In his first season as a regular starter, Tequiloan centre-back Martí Donat also stood out. Internationally, Gortz were knocked out of the Champions League in their first tie, against Maethoru SC of Ko-oren. They fared better in the Challengers Cup, reaching the Round of 32 before an excruciating penalty shootout against Lokomotive Jarnstad of Savojarna ended 11–10 in Lokomotive’s favour. In the Copa de Campeones they suffered an even more cruel twist of fate, with their 3–1 home victory against Olympia FC of Eastfield Lodge being wiped away by an incredible 1–4 away loss, Olympia turning the tie around to knock out Gortz in the first round.

Royal Ibarbe spent all season in contention for Challengers Cup competition – only to slip at the very end. A 1–0 loss at Athletic Olarria on the final matchday, with Athletic playing for absolutely nothing, allowed Gortz to jump over Royal Ibarbe and grab the final IFCF spot. A disappointing conclusion to what was otherwise a remarkable season, but their début in the Challengers Cup must wait for another time, once again. Their début in the Cup Winners’ Cup was brief but memorable: in the preliminary round, hulking brute Younis Pyrite scored two goals to beat Kirkham Appliances of Sylestone 2–0, only for Ibarbe to then lose 0–2 away, and proceed to lose the penalty shootout… 0–2. At any rate, national team centre-back Irakusne Hecharri was on fire this season, commanding the defence as if she were a seasoned veteran rather and not a 22-year-old still figuring out her career. Named to the league’s team of the season, it’s unlikely Ibarbe will be able to hold onto her.

Further down, Sporting Arkamo rounded out their otherwise average season with an outstanding run of form toward the end. This included a 1–0 away win over Urbizania Wanderers that propelled the team up to 7th place, one of their better seasons position-wise and their best season ever points-wise. Though their strikers Mogel Galdiano and Larendi Gorriz had been singled out as key to Arkamo’s success, it was centre-back Loiola Urpi who proved to be the team’s most important player, rallying the defence around him to protect slender leads. Manager Bortzaioriz Lizandra has redeemed himself as a capable manager – at least enough to survive the coming off-season and make some good signings. Antiguoko FC have likewise greatly improved upon expectations, matching their records for best finish and most points in a First Division season. Striker Mazuste Igerabide fulfilled an outsize role in this, not only scoring 15 goals but taking on a major leadership role as one of the squad’s senior figures. A point shy of Antiguoko were Athletic Club Olarria, who struggled with consistency and ceded positions toward the end of the season. Their final matchday result, a 1–0 win over Royal Ibarbe, at least allowed them the pleasure of sinking a rival’s aspirations for IFCF competition; for the goalscorer, Aingeru Edera, this was allowed a small measure of vengeance for having snubbed him a transfer earlier in his career. This was a good season for Olarria’s younger players, such as Izaskun Egiluz, Kara Lynch, and Iohana Mercado, to consolidate themselves in the starting eleven, and provides good ground for Olarria going forward. They will almost certainly need new strikers, though; Imanol Bethularan, now 35, proved a flop, and Olentzaro Anseoteori seems all but done with the club.

In the mid-table, Blue Mountain Range returned to their natural position: 10th place. No one is upset; their fans have long since accepted that this is their place in the cosmic balance. Manager Xander McDrew is a man of ambition, however, and has designs for the future; among them, replacing several of the more ageing elements in his squad, such as long-time striker Jacky Abatantuono. BMR’s claim to fame this season was delivering Iturributa United 2 of their 3 league losses: a 2–0 win away and an uncharacteristic 4–1 home win, their bulkiest of the whole year. Their first foray into top-level international football, the Challengers Cup, finished after a 0–5 loss at Winock United of Ancherion ended their dreams in the first qualification round, despite a spirited 2–1 win in the second leg. In 11th place, Ituraitz FC are chewing their fingers in desperation. This is their second worst result ever, after last season’s worst ever. PROJECT SAVE ITURAITZ has not turned out as they expected, and everyone struggles to explain how. They have a top manager, with whom they won two league titles, and a squad that could – should – be fighting at the top of the table. Yet the losses mount one after the other, the most crushing being a 5–0 loss to rivals Ituraitz Victory. Tomas Aer reportedly offered the club his resignation immediately after this, but was turned down; the board feared they could not possibly find a suitable replacement. At that time, Ituraitz were 5 points from reaching the Challengers Cup; they finished 18 points out. Tomas Aer will not continue next season. Supporters’ chosen scapegoat is Mâánéràtö Jíí, the Farf national team striker who notched 35 appearances, 0 goals, and 0 assists. Elsebeth Celustka, Ander Ametrano, and Modevideo Carpi were forced to work overtime to make up for him. Yet pundits point out the team’s top-heavy formation and ageing, overworked wing-backs may be the key to solving the issues; goalkeeper Fernando Armida was a standout performer but couldn’t keep out the onslaught of 57 goals on his own.

With one point between them, East Railway, Bakartirla Buccaneers, and Ituraitz Victory make up the tail end of what can be called the mid-table. East Railway suffered a terrible start to the season, collecting 11 points from their first 14 matches. The pressure to sack long-time manager Obeko Mundutegi was overwhelming, but the board kept their nerve and backed the man who’s stuck with them for 10 years through thick and thin. They did not regret it, as East Railway promptly mounted a comeback on the back of strong performances from box-to-box midfielder Dabi Elizondo-Egozkarra, winger Giro Pelua, and striker Yokin Erdokiain. Railway steadily increased their distance from the relegation battle, finishing a comfortable 15 points clear; if they had kept this form in the early stages of the season they could have easily competed in the upper rather than the lower mid-table. Bakartirla Buccaneers did not enjoy the renaissance they were hoping for and were forced to keep a watchful eye on the relegation positions, though they at least didn’t suffer a major scare like last season. Striker Tehmina Palani, who banged in 15 goals, and new goalkeeper Unax Goyenola were their standout performers, while Lukasz Adalmek[b] and [b]Alarabi Meabebasterrechea, in midfield and defence respectively, proved they’ve still got it. Ituraitz Victory, meanwhile, started the season off well before steadily deflating, The highlight of their season, one for the ages, was the 5–0 derby victory over Ituraitz FC, which included a brace from young winger Sakia Damani. Goizeder Abadia and Gartzen Beraun also performed admirably, but it is clear that manager Yaunti Echekopar has allowed his squad to sleep on their laurels – there is much work to be done to bring Victory back to proper shape.

Down at the bottom of the table, Echegoyan FC were happy to survive after a restless, stressful season, though grave deficiencies were revealed across the board. The controversial signing of striker Zabal Alkatena ended as critics said it would: 0 goals. Below them, Astograth University had a disastrous spell toward the middle of the season that dropped them from the mid-table to the relegation spots. Late-season wins against fellow stragglers Iturributa Racing and Miners FC gave them the points they needed to gasp for air and survive their first season back in the top flight. A traumatic return to the First Division they once dominated, but they’re alive! In no small part thanks to playmaker Garchot Dirassar, for whom they paid top diru and who turned out to be worth every bit of it. Iturributa Racing Club, also a recently promoted side who struggled to remain in the First Division, pulled off a near-miracle considering the low opinion pundits had of their chances at the beginning of the season. Strong individual performances, punching above their decidedly second-rate weight, pulled Iturributa Racing back from the brink; the most notable of these was by 19-year-old Yaunzuria Urgoiti, named the third-best young player of the season thanks to her outstanding, box-to-box efforts for Racing. Top sides have almost certainly taken note of her talent.

For the three relegates sides, nothing worked. Urbitzo FC, Basabe Old Boys, and Miners FC all spent almost the entirety of the season in the bottom 3 positions; unusually for the First Division, the relegation battle was resolved relatively early and undramatically. Sackings, desperation hirings, mid-season training camps in cushy resorts – nothing worked to turn things around. Urbitzo, who rallied around playmaker Gabon Saralegi and left-back Johan Coalfield, put together the best late attempt to escape their doom, but a predictable 0–1 home loss to Sporting Iturributa sealed their fate on the penultimate matchday.

Taldo Lehan                Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Iturributa United        38   25  10   3    72   33  +39    85 Champions / Copa de Campeones / Champions League – 16th CC/CL appearance
 2 Sporting Iturributa      38   22  10   6    50   25  +25    76 Champions League – 22nd CC/CL appearance
 3 Royal Rumiatzi           38   21   9   8    65   35  +30    72 Challengers Cup – 23rd GC/ChC appearance
 4 Urbizania Wanderers      38   21   8   9    55   28  +27    71 Challengers Cup – 23rd GC/ChC appearance
 5 Gortz United             38   20   7  11    55   36  +19    67 Challengers Cup – 3rd GC/ChC appearance
 6 Royal Ibarbe             38   18  11   9    52   27  +25    65
 7 Sporting Arkamo          38   19   6  13    54   43  +11    63
 8 Antiguoko FC             38   16  11  11    42   39   +3    59
 9 Athletic Club Olarria    38   17   7  14    54   45   +9    58
10 Blue Mountain Range      38   13  12  13    30   26   +4    51
11 Ituraitz FC              38   13  10  15    50   57   −7    49
12 East Railway             38   12  10  16    31   40   −9    46
13 Bakartirla Buccaneers    38   12  10  16    46   53   −7    46
14 Ituraitz Victory         38   12   9  17    48   60  −12    45
15 Echegoyan FC             38   11   6  21    35   63  −28    39
16 Astograth University     38    9   9  20    32   49  −17    36
17 Iturributa Racing Club   38    9   9  20    25   57  −32    36
18 Urbitzo FC               38    9   4  25    35   62  −27    31 ↓ 3-year run
19 Basabe Old Boys          38    6  11  21    29   51  −22    29 ↓ 1-year run
20 Miners FC                38    5  11  22    18   49  −31    26 ↓ 3-year run

CHAMPIONS
ITURRIBUTA UNITED
5th title

FAF Awards

At the traditional awards ceremony, held at Rumiatzi’s Kraitzaga Theatre once the season is concluded, the Futbol Astograthiko Federazioa presented the following awards, based on First Division performance. Local media consider these highly prestigious, and the definitive acknowledgement of the best in Astograthian football.

Player of the Season:
1.

Pristina Shine ⟮EQS⟯, CF – Iturributa United – 38 appearances, 27 goals
2.

Gilamu Bengoechea, AM – Sporting Iturributa – 35 appearances, 6 goals
3.

Janne Toivanen ⟮SVJ⟯, CB – Iturributa United – 38 appearances, 2 goals

Young Player of the Season:
1.

Kolejes Marajis ⟮FFD⟯, RM, age 20 – Gortz United – 34 appearances, 3 goals
2.

Unax Goyenola, GK, age 21 – Bakartirla Buccaneers – 35 appearances
3.

Yaunzuria Urgoiti, CM, age 19 – Iturributa Racing Club – 38 appearances, 6 goals

Manager of the Season:
1.

Justin Vauxhall ⟮BRE⟯ – Iturributa United
2.

Cheney Bittencourt ⟮NPH⟯ – Sporting Iturributa
3.

Agoztar Ilarduya – Antiguoko FC

Golden Uri for Top Scorer:
27 –

Pristina Shine ⟮EQS⟯, CF – Iturributa United
24 –

Brandon Irving ⟮SNL⟯, CF – Urbizania Wanderers
21 –

Tomofumi Ishimoda, CF – Gortz United
21 –

Danica Marinkovic ⟮NPH⟯, CF – Royal Rumiatzi

Elmsvikur Trophy for Goal of the Season:
1.

Modevideo Carpi ⟮QUR⟯ – Ituraitz FC (H) vs. Antiguoko FC, MD 36, FT 3–0. Pushing forward, Elsebeth Celustka dribbles through three players outside of the box and passes sideways to Mâánéràtö Jíí; Jíí feints over the ball without touching it while Carpi runs up and fires into the roof of the net from well outside the box.
2.

Ugutz Iturriche – Ituraitz Victory (A) vs. Astograth University, MD 10, FT 3–3. Iracho Yeregi loops a ball forward for Teyo Menbieye to the right of the box; he passes back to Iturriche on the edge of the box, who with his second touch blasts a shot into the far corner of the goal.
3.

Robert Lucero ⟮TKT⟯ – Royal Ibarbe (H) vs. Sporting Iturributa, MD 35, FT 2–0. Echahun Dacharry hits a long, deep cross in from the right touchline; on the left side of the box Lucero dives and strikes the ball across the goal with a falling, left-footed volley.

Team of the Season:
GK –

Dieje Ibrelaná ⟮FFD⟯ – Urbizania Wanderers – 38 appearances
LB –

Loxjilo Exihosahar ⟮FFD⟯ – Royal Rumiatzi – 35 appearances
CB –

Janne Toivanen ⟮SVJ⟯ – Iturributa United – 38 appearances, 2 goals
CB –

Irakusne Hecharri – Royal Ibarbe – 37 appearances
RB –

Baiona Menduburu – Sporting Iturributa – 37 appearances, 3 goals
DM –

Yoshimi Hirahito ⟮TAE⟯ – Urbizania Wanderers – 38 appearances, 1 goal
LM –

Fangti Pikolaugh ⟮CMT⟯ – Iturributa United – 33 appearances, 9 goals
RM –

Jeremiah Ruiz ⟮ETN⟯ – Sporting Iturributa – 34 appearances, 4 goals
AM –

Gilamu Bengoechea – Sporting Iturributa – 35 appearances, 6 goals
CF –

Brandon Irving ⟮SNL⟯ – Urbizania Wanderers – 36 appearances, 24 goals
CF –

Pristina Shine ⟮EQS⟯ – Iturributa United – 38 appearances, 27 goals

Name                            Club                    Pos   Nat.  App  Gls
ALUNDRA                         Antiguoko FC            CB    DAI   32    0
CHARDIN Tier                    Antiguoko FC            DM    KOR   35    2
GUPTA Raj                       Antiguoko FC            LM    ETN   34    4
CAILLEUX Thierry                Antiguoko FC            RM    HIN   33    3
ROBERTSON Ada                   Antiguoko FC            GK    SCT    8    0
BRANDON David                   Antiguoko FC            DM    IGR    8    0
REYNE Yaël la                   Antiguoko FC            RM    OAM   16    0
SHIRONG Jin                     Astograth University    DM    YZH   31    1
LYNCH Kara                      Athletic Club Olarria   CB    TLI   31    2
MERCADO Iohana                  Athletic Club Olarria   RB    ASU   30    1
DOCHERTY Amber                  Athletic Club Olarria   RM    KSK   33    6
CARNEY Gareth                   Athletic Club Olarria   LB    NPH   11    0
MCJOHNSOM Johnson               Athletic Club Olarria   CB    PFA   10    0
BLACKWOOD Neil                  Athletic Club Olarria   RB    CBP   14    0
MONTREAUX Habette               Athletic Club Olarria   LM    HIN   15    0
RADOZEVIC Svetoslav             Bakartirla Buccaneers   DM    MYT   34    1
ADALMEK Lukasz                  Bakartirla Buccaneers   RM    ESH   35    7
AZIZ Pia                        Bakartirla Buccaneers   AM    MRT   31    3
PALANI Tehmina                  Bakartirla Buccaneers   CF    SRS   35   15
ASTRO Nacro                     Bakartirla Buccaneers   CB    PFA   13    0
DESSOUBS-LE-FOUR Paolig         Bakartirla Buccaneers   LM    OAM    9    4
DAVIES Declan                   Basabe Old Boys         GK    HVY   33    0
SCHAEFER Eleanor                Basabe Old Boys         RB    NPH   34    2
SANTIAGO Santiago               Blue Mountain Range     LB    TAE   36    1
DONALDSON Arnold                Blue Mountain Range     CB    KHD   33    2
COSHAN Daigo                    Blue Mountain Range     CB    TAE   37    1
REED Danni                      Blue Mountain Range     RB    QOD   30    3
BREUNIG Benjamin                Blue Mountain Range     DM    SWR   33    0
AZBELYOV Janei                  Blue Mountain Range     RM    SRS   33    6
ABATANTUONO Jacky               Blue Mountain Range     CF    JUE   34    7
DASSAULT Adrian                 Blue Mountain Range     CB    TKT    9    0
MEE-KYONG Geun                  Blue Mountain Range     DM    HIN   11    0
PRINCE Rosalia                  Blue Mountain Range     DM    EFL    9    0
CARUSO Armando                  Blue Mountain Range     CM    SVG   11    0
YONG Zhao                       East Railway            GK    YZH   33    0
CARTLIDGE James                 East Railway            RB    MUR   32    0
BARRETT Rachel                  East Railway            LB    HAN   11    0
OHASHIMA Marisa                 East Railway            DM    HIN   11    0
ZINKOVSKY Kamil                 Echegoyan FC            CB    MYT   34    0
POTOS Telá                      Echegoyan FC            CF    TIO   35    9
WAHL Barto                      Echegoyan FC            GK    ZRH    9    0
THOMPSEN Rosenthorpe            Echegoyan FC            CM    CMT   13    0
SINAGRA Anselmo                 Gortz United            CB    JUE   32    0
DONAT Martí                     Gortz United            CB    TEQ   37    2
MARVINSSON Valtter              Gortz United            DM    GRF   31    0
TSTINSTAPHENSTEITD Erphinstatdt Gortz United            CM    AUD   37    3
MORGENSTERN Shiloh              Gortz United            LM    TAE   32   12
MARAJIS Kolejes                 Gortz United            RM    FFD   34    3
WILHELM Esmail                  Gortz United            CM    ESH   12    2
MARUSIC Borna                   Gortz United            CM    MYT    9    1
BAINS Eddie                     Gortz United            CF    SCT   19    1
ARMIDA Fernando                 Ituraitz FC             GK    STB   34    0
SLOAH Mike                      Ituraitz FC             CB    SNL   28    0
KOVACEVIC Amar                  Ituraitz FC             CB    MYT   36    0
SHINRA Puristina                Ituraitz FC             CM    HIN   38    2
HLYNURSBUR Ari                  Ituraitz FC             RM    GRF   35    7
CELUSTKA Elsebeth               Ituraitz FC             AM    NPH   37    8
CARPI Modevideo                 Ituraitz FC             CF    QUR   36   16
JÍÍ Mâánéràtö                   Ituraitz FC             CF    FFD   35    0
DARROZE Arnesa                  Ituraitz FC             DM    NPH   10    0
DOWLING-DOCKSON Meir            Ituraitz FC             CF    EFL   20    1
KINDVANEVAN Augustijn           Ituraitz Victory        GK    TSA   33    0
GAROFANO Mastino                Ituraitz Victory        LB    SVG   35    0
DAMANI Sakia                    Ituraitz Victory        LM    CMT   34    4
MAHIR Omar                      Ituraitz Victory        AM    ESH   35   10
NUN Intov-Gelan                 Ituraitz Victory        DM    QUS   14    0
PLUMB Sulpizio                  Ituraitz Victory        CF    MRT   12    0
HUTCHINS Dana                   Iturributa United       GK    EFL   32    0
JAGIDAR Palla                   Iturributa United       LB    SRS   33    0
TOIVANEN Janne                  Iturributa United       CB    SVJ   38    2
RIVERS Alex                     Iturributa United       CB    KRY   37    2
AIGUO Zhu                       Iturributa United       RB    YZH   32    0
MACDONALD Connor                Iturributa United       DM    KSK   32    1
PIKOLAUGH Fangti                Iturributa United       LM    CMT   33    9
BRIGHT Lukas                    Iturributa United       CF    BRE   33   16
SHINE Pristina                  Iturributa United       CF    EQS   38   27
AGUIAR Victor                   Iturributa United       GK    CBZ    5    0
DOHERTY Isaac                   Iturributa United       LB    EUR   12    0
MENAT Gareth                    Iturributa United       DM    NPH   15    1
PIERCE Bryan                    Miners FC               GK    XAN   31    0
ARJONSSON Sigurdur              Miners FC               RB    SVJ   34    1
BLOODOFF Darian                 Miners FC               CF    TKT   31    4
BABYKIN Valery                  Miners FC               DM    PYA   13    1
BIRKAN Zeynel Abidin            Royal Ibarbe            LB    TMR   35    2
MUNUZO Hissho                   Royal Ibarbe            CB    HIN   36    2
VILLAVERDE Chuy                 Royal Ibarbe            RB    FFD   33    3
PYRITE Younis                   Royal Ibarbe            DM    ISK   31    0
ARENTSSON Guðmann               Royal Ibarbe            DM    GRF   35    3
LERUOSE Osfral                  Royal Ibarbe            LM    TIO   37    8
NIFORRO Lumugue                 Royal Ibarbe            AM    TIO   37    6
LUCERO Robert                   Royal Ibarbe            CF    TKT   35   13
EXAIMAHE Huatxehai              Royal Ibarbe            CB    TXA    9    0
UBBISDÓTTIR Malin               Royal Ibarbe            CB    GRF    9    0
FAUMONT Silbane de              Royal Ibarbe            RM    MRT   12    0
MATHENY Konrad                  Royal Rumiatzi          GK    NPH   38    0
EXIHOSAHAR Loxjilo              Royal Rumiatzi          LB    FFD   35    0
IMABAYAMA Iñaki                 Royal Rumiatzi          CB    HIN   31    1
KAOÑAHANI Adaxa                 Royal Rumiatzi          CB    TXA   34    2
SAINT-PIERRE Victoire De        Royal Rumiatzi          RB    CMT   37    0
REASON Guy                      Royal Rumiatzi          CM    FFD   31    2
MOORE Nolan                     Royal Rumiatzi          RM    TKT   34    4
MARINKOVIC Danica               Royal Rumiatzi          CF    NPH   35   21
BLESSED Martin                  Royal Rumiatzi          CF    EUR   30   16
VUJOVIC Slobodan                Royal Rumiatzi          RB    MYT    9    0
KARAISKAKIS Petrarch            Royal Rumiatzi          LM    NPH   16    3
ROMINEVSKIY Davidov             Royal Rumiatzi          CM    TWI   16    2
SHAVER Renee                    Royal Rumiatzi          RM    CDG   10    1
LAMAARS Freek                   Sporting Arkamo         RB    ESH   29    4
PINNOCK Ombre                   Sporting Arkamo         CM    BRE   11    2
NIFTERIK Damyan                 Sporting Arkamo         CF    ESH   20    2
KABERLE Lino                    Sporting Iturributa     GK    STL   35    0
COMPTON Minerva                 Sporting Iturributa     LB    KOR   34    1
RAUCH Ferena                    Sporting Iturributa     DM    NPH   36    2
NAPOLEONI Panfilo               Sporting Iturributa     DM    JUE   31    0
KIICHI Ohashi                   Sporting Iturributa     LM    SQR   34    6
RUIZ Jeremiah                   Sporting Iturributa     RM    ETN   34    4
CASTANEDA Evangelino Pulido     Sporting Iturributa     CF    PAS   36   16
KABERLE Thomas                  Sporting Iturributa     CB    STL   19    1
ROBERTS Trent                   Sporting Iturributa     LM    EUR   11    3
BRUNO Marco                     Sporting Iturributa     CF    QAD   15    1
COALFIELD Johan                 Urbitzo FC              LB    BRE   33    0
CULLEN Ward                     Urbitzo FC              RB    NPH   31    0
STAUNT-ANDERSON Martin          Urbitzo FC              DM    ZWZ   32    0
DUFOUR Duenerth                 Urbitzo FC              CF    GVN   33    4
BEROUT Ivon                     Urbitzo FC              LB    OAM    6    1
BROADHEAD Neil                  Urbitzo FC              LM    TMB   11    0
SWISHER Jake                    Urbitzo FC              AM    SFD   14    4
IBRELANÁ Dieje                  Urbizania Wanderers     GK    FFD   38    0
PALOMER Roman                   Urbizania Wanderers     LB    SVG   34    3
HIRAHITO Yoshimi                Urbizania Wanderers     DM    TAE   38    1
DURMISI Alexis                  Urbizania Wanderers     LM    VLD   32    6
HARRYSSON Robin                 Urbizania Wanderers     RM    GRF   36    2
MANN Julian                     Urbizania Wanderers     AM    EUR   38    9
IRVING Brandon                  Urbizania Wanderers     CF    SNL   36   24

Second Division
For the first time in a long time, TWO clubs will be making their débuts in the First Division next year. Ibarbe Sport, a historically insignificant side who have spent only 5 seasons in the Second Division, have against all odds won the league and earned promotion to the top flight. They do so in dominant fashion, 6 points clear of Athletic Rumiatzi, under the sage management of Aitor Bustingorry. Athletic, for their part, make their return to the top flight as runners-up, hoping to leave behind their reputation as a yo-yo club. In the playoffs, Sporting Olarria defeated Ximun Orieta to become the second team from Olarria to reach the First Division The cities of Ibarbe – part of the Rumiatzi metropolitan area – and Olarria will both, for the first time, feature their local derbies in the national top flight. 3rd-placed Ezkutia MFC, defeated in the playoff semifinals, will have to content themselves with the 3rd LBCT spot they have earned on league position.

Taldo Biharran             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Ibarbe Sport             46   25   9  12    84   50  +34    84 ↑ Champions / Liga B Champions Trophy – will début in the First Division and the SBCC/LBCT
 2 Athletic Club Rumiatzi   46   22  12  12    93   69  +24    78 ↑ Liga B Champions Trophy – return after 2 years, 6th SBCC/LBCT appearance
 3 Ezkutia MFC              46   24   5  17    68   57  +11    77 Liga B Champions Trophy – 1st SBCC/LBCT appearance
 4 Urizaharra FC            46   23   7  16    80   61  +19    76
 5 Sporting Olarria         46   22  10  14    63   51  +12    76 ↑ will début in the First Division
 6 Ximun Orieta FC          46   19  17  10    52   42  +10    74
 7 Oyardo FC                46   21  10  15    55   55    0    73
 8 Garitzeta Racing Club    46   20  11  15    53   57   −4    71
 9 Gesterlake FC            46   19  13  14    67   49  +18    70
10 Sporting Ibarguren       46   19  11  16    53   43  +10    68
11 Old City Central         46   18  12  16    71   57  +14    66
12 Uzio Blackstar           46   17  14  15    51   53   −2    65
13 Erribe United            46   16  16  14    62   51  +11    64
14 Uidio Mariners           46   16  13  17    61   67   −6    61
15 Army United              46   16  11  19    67   72   −5    59
16 Rumiatzi 529             46   15  12  19    42   52  −10    57
17 Royal Arexa              46   16   8  22    60   75  −15    56
18 Eagles FC                46   14  13  19    35   57  −22    55
19 Dockyard Oaks            46   14  11  21    45   56  −11    53
20 Lermendia FC             46   14  11  21    53   65  −12    53
21 Royal Association        46   13  14  19    57   63   −6    53 ↓ will début in Second Division B
22 Mars Athletic            46   13  10  23    38   59  −21    49 ↓ 4-year run out of Second Division B
23 Tzaramaga Rovers         46   12  10  24    51   62  −11    46 ↓ 2-year run
24 FK Aliantza              46    9  10  27    37   75  −38    37 ↓ 1-year run

Promotion Playoffs

Semifinals
Ximun Orieta FC 3–0 Ezkutia MFC
Sporting Olarria 1–1 Urizaharra FC

Ezkutia MFC 0–1 Ximun Orieta FC (0–4 agg.)
Urizaharra FC 1–1 Sporting Olarria (1–1 AET, 2–2 agg., 4–5 pen.)

Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Ximun Orieta FC 0–1 Sporting Olarria

Second Division B

Nabarrieta FC have won their group with one of the more dominant campaigns yet seen in the Astograthian third tier – only to lose the championship final to Cafundelense, a small team from the city of Irtzu, in the far east of Astograth. The latter will be making their début in the second tier together with Ariznabarra Castle, from the farthest south-east reaches of the country, who beat San Markez of Uidio in the playoffs. Bizkarra Castle (no relation), from a town that has long guarded the passes of the Blue Mountains, were also promoted after beating Basabe Youth in the playoffs.

East Group

Taldo Biharran B East     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Cafundelense            46   25   7  14    67   46  +21    82 ↑ will début in Second Division
 2 Basabe Youth            46   22  11  13    58   44  +14    77
 3 Ariznabarra Castle      46   23   8  15    48   36  +12    77 ↑ will début in Second Division
 4 Garitzeta FC            46   21  10  15    62   51  +11    73
 5 Baker's Eleven          46   19  16  11    53   46   +7    73
 6 Sporting Uanka          46   21   9  16    56   46  +10    72
 7 Ezkalmendia FC          46   20  10  16    60   44  +16    70
 8 Biazterri FC            46   20   9  17    58   56   +2    69
 9 Galarra Youth           46   20   7  19    57   52   +5    67
10 Arbetsana Crossing      46   19  10  17    54   59   −5    67
11 Berlasko FC             46   16  17  13    51   51    0    65
12 Uertza Gymnastic        46   17  14  15    46   46    0    65
13 Iturricho FC            46   19   7  20    56   53   +3    64
14 Iratza Fury             46   18  10  18    56   59   −3    64
15 United of Langaraitz    46   15  17  14    47   47    0    62
16 Chabeitzio FC           46   15  14  17    54   57   −3    59
17 Akialden Marauders      46   15  14  17    50   53   −3    59
18 Landako Wanderers       46   15  13  18    68   62   +6    58
19 Landaluz Casuals        46   15  13  18    46   60  −14    58
20 Freedom FC              46   15  11  20    46   54   −8    56
21 Letzama University      46   15  10  21    54   59   −5    55 ↓ 1-year run in the Football League
22 General Errekart        46   14   6  26    42   54  −12    48 ↓ 1-year run
23 Letzama FC              46   11  13  22    43   64  −21    46 ↓ first relegation from the Football League
24 Sakana FC               46   10   8  28    50   83  −33    38 ↓ 4-year run

West Group

Taldo Biharran B West      Pld   W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Nabarrieta FC           46   28   8  10    64   38  +26    92 ↑ return after 5 years
 2 San Markez              46   22  12  12    66   50  +16    78
 3 Bizkarra Castle         46   22   8  16    64   59   +5    74 ↑ return after 6 years
 4 Fort Saint Oskia        46   22   7  17    67   62   +5    73
 5 Phoenix Athletic        46   22   7  17    59   55   +4    73
 6 South Factory           46   20  12  14    55   45  +10    72
 7 Ichapeldun Mariners     46   19  14  13    60   50  +10    71
 8 Ermarretza United       46   21   8  17    49   47   +2    71
 9 Akarregi Leisure        46   20  10  16    55   50   +5    70
10 Chopbiren FC            46   21   6  19    68   64   +4    69
11 FAS SC                  46   19  11  16    64   49  +15    68
12 Satzueta Alliance       46   19   9  18    48   48    0    66
13 Ibarbe Youth            46   19   8  19    55   54   +1    65
14 Amanka FC               46   19   7  20    51   62  −11    64
15 Maniarrieta Workers'    46   18   6  22    65   67   −2    60
16 Progress Athletic       46   16  12  18    55   56   −1    60
17 Muitago Union           46   15  13  18    59   67   −8    58
18 Goyardeliz United       46   17   6  23    64   75  −11    57
19 Gortz Academy           46   14  14  18    53   49   +4    56
20 Dockside Casuals        46   15  10  21    49   47   +2    55
21 Sporting Igerreitio     46   13  13  20    47   58  −11    52 ↓ 4-year run in the Football League
22 Rumiatzi Sentinel       46   13   8  25    47   62  −15    47 ↓ 1-year run
23 Naguaro FC              46   13   8  25    55   81  −26    47 ↓ 1-year run
24 Goyerri FC              46   11  11  24    38   62  −24    44 ↓ 2-year run

Championship Final – East vs. West
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Nabarrieta FC 0–5 Cafundelense

Promotion Playoffs
Bizkarra Castle 4–0 Basabe Youth
Ariznabarra Castle 2–0 San Markez

Basabe Youth 0–1 Bizkarra Castle (0–5 agg.)
San Markez 0–1 Ariznabarra Castle (0–3 agg.)

Astograthian Development League – Honours Division

The Astograthian Development League, a joint FAF-Ministry of Sport venture, pits U21 teams across the nation in round-robin action. Iturrributa United secure a rare First Division – Development League double, further lifting their spirits.

   Honours Division         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Iturributa United         30   19   4   7    61   31  +30    61 Champions / Rising Stars Cup – 5th YC/RSC appearance
 2 Sporting Iturributa       30   17   8   5    41   22  +19    59
 3 Royal Rumiatzi            30   18   4   8    63   33  +30    58
 4 Ituraitz FC               30   18   4   8    56   32  +24    58
 5 Urbizania Wanderers       30   17   4   9    58   45  +13    55
 6 Royal Association         30   14   4  12    44   45   −1    46
 7 Echegoyan FC              30   14   3  13    45   38   +7    45
 8 Bakartirla Buccaneers     30   12   8  10    38   33   +5    44
 9 Astograth University      30   12   6  12    22   24   −2    42
10 Ituraitz Victory          30    8  10  12    39   47   −8    34
11 Blue Mountain Range       30   10   4  16    20   23   −3    34
12 Garitzeta FC              30   10   4  16    38   53  −15    34
13 Basabe Old Boys           30    8   7  15    37   55  −18    31
14 Oyardo FC                 30    8   5  17    29   54  −25    29
15 Gesterlake FC             30    6   7  17    28   50  −22    25 ↓
16 Athletic Club Yungoitio   30    7   2  21    22   56  −34    23 ↓

Promoted: Miners FC, Royal Ibarbe

The Royal Cup

One-legged ties. First and Second Division teams enter at the Round of 64, and the former are seeded for that and the following round. If clubs have a two-tier difference or greater, the lower-tier team will play at home.

Round of 64 (select matches)
Antiguoko FC 1–0 FK Aliantza
Maniarrieta Workers' 0–3 Urbitzo FC
United of Langaraitz 0–1 Ituraitz FC
Munika Speed 0–2 Sporting Iturributa
Iturricho FC 0–2 Gortz United
General Errekart 0–4 Royal Rumiatzi
Echegoyan FC 2–0 Oyardo FC
Cafundelense 0–1 Basabe Old Boys
Athletic Club Olarria 2–0 Lermendia FC
Ichapeldun Mariners 3–2 Iturributa United
Eagles FC 1–2 Astograth University
Erribe United 3–3 Blue Mountain Range (3–3 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Ermua Spring 0–2 Iturributa Racing Club
Sporting Olarria 0–1 Ituraitz Victory
Royal Arexa 1–0 Urbizania Wanderers
Chopbiren FC 1–1 Miners FC (1–1 AET) (2–4 pen.)
Gortz Academy 0–1 East Railway
Garitzeta Racing Club 1–0 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Rumiatzi 529 0–1 Royal Ibarbe
Chabeitzio FC 1–1 Sporting Arkamo (1–3 AET)

It is not a Royal Cup without some early upsets. Ichapeldun Mariners of the Second Division B were the first to shock the nation by knocking out the mighty Iturributa United, putting the eventual league champions out of contention for the league-cup double early on. Second-tier Erribe United dragged Blue Mountain Range to extra-time and a tight penalty shootout, ending BMR’s dreams of maybe, just maybe seeing a trophy this season. The also second-tier Royal Arexa took down Urbizania Wanderers in a replay of the 647 Royal Cup final, which also ended in a shock victory for Arexa. Finally, Garitzeta Racing eked out a 1–0 home win against Bakartirla Buccaneers for the fourth upset of the round. Of the other ties, Sporting Arkamo were made to sweat by Chabeitzio FC, reaching extra-time before Loramendi Errakalde and Mogel Galdiano put the result beyond doubt. In a tie between somewhat local teams, Royal Ibarbe’s Chimich Jansson scored the only goal in a win against Rumiatzi 529.

Round of 32
Gortz United 1–1 Mars Athletic (2–1 AET)
Royal Association 1–0 Athletic Club Olarria
Ituraitz Victory 1–0 Dockyard Oaks
Tzaramaga Rovers 0–1 Echegoyan FC
Ichapeldun Mariners 1–1 Sporting Iturributa (1–1 AET) (2–3 pen.)
Royal Ibarbe 1–1 Old City Central (1–1 AET) (3–2 pen.)
Erribe United 0–0 Urbitzo FC (0–1 AET)
Goyerri FC 0–2 Ituraitz FC
Iturributa Racing Club 2–1 Ezkutia MFC
Urizaharra FC 1–1 Antiguoko FC (2–1 AET)
Garitzeta Racing Club 1–1 Basabe Old Boys (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Ermarretza United 1–0 Miners FC
Royal Rumiatzi 4–0 Ximun Orieta FC
Sporting Arkamo 2–0 Royal Arexa
South Factory 3–3 East Railway (3–4 AET)
Uidio Mariners 1–0 Astograth University

The Round of 32 was spicy, with plenty of extra-time action. Gortz United needed an extra 30 minutes to beat Mars Athletic, courtesy of Shiloh Morgenstern and Sabin Laza. Second Division side Royal Association scored once and defended the rest of the match to steal a shock win from Athletic Olarria, while the recently relegated Urizaharra FC broke Antiguoko FC in extra-time. Ichapeldun Mariners, after collecting Iturributa United’s scalp, almost did the same against Sporting Iturributa – Sporting’s substitute goalkeeper Orzaize Zubimendi had his 15 minutes of fame saving the penalties that gave them the win. The penalty upset was provided by Garitzeta Racing against Basabe Old Boys, while defending champions Royal Ibarbe narrowly avoided the same against Old City Central. The third-tier side Ermarretza United notched a huge win by knocking out a mediocre Miners FC, who spent the season consumed in a league relegation battle. Danica Marinkovic capped a comfortable 4–0 victory for Royal Rumiatzi over Ximun Orieta, while Uidio Mariners from the Second Division carefully dissected Astograth University.

Round of 16
East Railway 0–0 Echegoyan FC (0–1 AET)
Urbitzo FC 0–2 Sporting Arkamo
Sporting Iturributa 4–0 Iturributa Racing Club
Royal Rumiatzi 1–1 Uidio Mariners (2–1 AET)
Ituraitz Victory 1–1 Urizaharra FC (2–1 AET)
Garitzeta Racing Club 1–2 Royal Association
Ermarretza United 0–2 Gortz United
Royal Ibarbe 0–1 Ituraitz FC

All team below the top flight were wiped out in the Round of 16, with exception of Royal Association, who defeated the also-second-tier Garitzeta Racing to remain in the competition. In a local derby, Evangelino Pulido Castaneda, Baiona Menduburu, Ohashi Kiichi and Panfilo Napoleoni all pitched in a goal for Sporting Iturributa to take out Iturributa Racing, while Danica Marinkovic scored a brace in Royal Rumiatzi’s 2–1 extra-time win over Uidio Mariners, who proved a tough nut to crack. Ituraitz FC’s Ari Hlynursbur scored the goal that knocked out defending Royal Cup champions Royal Ibarbe; for all of Ituraitz’s league troubles, at least they were in the final 8 of the cup.

Quarterfinals
Ituraitz FC 0–2 Royal Rumiatzi
Sporting Arkamo 4–2 Royal Association
Ituraitz Victory 1–0 Echegoyan FC
Gortz United 1–2 Sporting Iturributa

Ituraitz FC were in the final 8 of the Royal Cup, before they ran into the juggernaut of Royal Rumiatzi. Even playing at home, Ituraitz were no match for Rumiatzi, who took them out with one goal each from Danica Marinkovic and captain Martin Blessed. In the other ties, Damyan Nifterik scored a brace as Sporting Arkamo beat Royal Assocation in an exciting 4–2 matach, Victory narrowly beat Echegoyan thanks to a header from Xefe Bessouat, and Gilamu Bengoechea scored twice for Sporting Iturributa to overcome Tomofumi Ishimoda’s opener and eliminate Gortz United.

Semifinals
Royal Rumiatzi 3–1 Sporting Arkamo
Ituraitz Victory 1–1 Sporting Iturributa (2–1 AET)

The draw placed Royal Rumiatzi and Sporting Iturributa in separate ties, setting the stage for a major rivalry clash in the final. Rumiatzi did their part, Nolan Moore opening the score in a straightforward 3–1 defeat of Sporting Arkamo. In the other match at the Ituraitz Sporting Ground, a replay of the 687 final, things played out differently. Ituraitz Victory took an early lead through Omar Mahir before Sporting Iturributa’s Minerva Compton equalised before half-time; the second half was a hard-fought affair as Victory sought to stretch out the match as much as possible, to penalties if possible – this was how they’d won the 687 final less than two years ago. In their search for a winner, Sporting grew careless, as they had in 687. In the 111th minute, a gap was pounced on by striker Teyo Menbieye, who added to his legendary status at Victory by slotting home the winner past the reach of Lino Kaberle. Sporting were denied their 4th consecutive final appearance – and 6th in 8 years – by pluck Victory, who now had the chance of winning their second Royal Cup in 3 years.

The Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi

Royal Rumiatzi arrived to the Royal Cup final frustrated at having finished 3rd in the league, forced to offer explanations for how they’d let Iturributa United slip away with the title and Sporting Iturributa with the Champions League spot. The Royal Cup was a chance to blow off steam, beat a smaller team into a pulp, and secure the first trophy of the Jaffacake-Phillips era.

For Ituraitz Victory, following a mediocre league season, this was another rare chance to get one over the top teams. They’d done it two years ago against Sporting Iturributa, exploiting their hubris and impatience to win their second Royal Cup. Victory also didn’t forget their identity – the oldest club in Astograth, steeped in pride and laurels. Winning silverware had long since stopped being a routine expectation, but if they did win they’d only be living up to their history. Hell, all cup competitions in Astograth descended from the old Consular Cup, which they’d invented!

At Grand Duke’s Stadium, Royal Rumiatzi were effectively the ‘home’ team. In that hostile environment, Ituraitz Victory held out far longer than most anyone expected. Defensive midfielder Iracho Yeregi, winner of 3 Royal Cups across his career, and his partner Goizeder Abadia bossed the midfield during the first half, putting possession firmly and surprisingly in Victory’s control. They prodded at Rumiatzi’s defence through Ugutz Iturriche, former winger for Rumiatzi, as well as Teyo Menbieye and Omar Mahir, but the 5-man line of Exihosahar, Saint-Pierre, Kaoñahani, Andia, and Imabayama proved nigh impenetrable – and when they did get a shot off, keeper Konrad Matheny was at the top of his game. For Rumiatzi, striker Danica Marinkovic was the standout performer going forward; her partner Urbasa Aldanondo, playing instead of a recovering Martin Blessed, struggled to keep up the pace.

It was well into the second half, minute 71, that a tired Victory finally allowed Marinkovic the space to break through and score the opener, a clinical one-on-one finish that keeper Augustijn Kindvanen could do nothing about. Victory were visibly rattled but, to their credit, kept up the pressure – and kept slamming against Rumiatzi’s airtight defence. Victory’s manager Yaunti Echekopar had no aces up his sleeve; everything was already on the pitch. Jaffacake-Phillips, however, pulled out one of his: minute 80, Martin Blessed onto the pitch amid thundering applause. Minute 86, having barely touched the ball, it was Blessed who put the result beyond doubt. 2–0 up, it would be Royal Rumiatzi celebrating their first Royal Cup in almost a decade, the ninth in total. A new record.

Ituraitz Victory 0–2 Royal Rumiatzi

CHAMPIONS
ROYAL RUMIATZI
9th title

Astograth (ASG) qualifiers
Champions League: Iturributa United, Sporting Iturributa
Challengers Cup: Royal Rumiatzi, Urbizania Wanderers, Gortz United
Liga B Champions Trophy: Ibarbe Sport, Athletic Club Rumiatzi, Ezkutia MFC
Rising Stars Cup: Iturributa United
Cup Winners’ Cup: Royal Rumiatzi

Copa de Campeones: Iturributa United

Astograth (ASG) final site bids

Challengers Cup: Old City Stadium, Iturributa (72,000)
Located in the ‘Old City’ area of Iturributa, Old City Stadium is one of Astograth’s most legendary venues. Grand Duke’s Stadium may have the status, Ximun Orieta and the Ituraitz Sporting Ground may have the years, but Old City has the romance. Established more than 160 years ago and almost completely rebuilt several times over, the ground is jointly owned by rival clubs Iturributa United and Sporting Iturributa, who at least twice a year play out the biggest derby in the Astograthian First Division. Its pitch has seen countless trophies won and lost, and often been graced by some of the biggest stars in world football – especially when the two Iturributas competed in the upper echelons of UICA competition. When the Iturributa national football team was active, between World Cups 60 and 66, Old City Stadium also acted as its home venue. The stadium’s structure is not fancy – a steep-sided concrete bowl – but its innards are set to be duly renovated to the highest of IFCF standards. Internationally, Old City Stadium has previously hosted the final of the 18th Cup Winners’ Cup, which Fontvielle Impact won 2–1 in extra time against East Franz Athletic; three finals of the Rushmori Copa de Campeones, including Iturributa United’s 0–1 loss to FC1. Surtsey Island Gulls; and multiple matches at two Copas Rushmori and the 48th Baptism of Fire.

Cup Winners’ Cup: Grand Duke’s Stadium, Rumiatzi (90,000)
Located on the eastern side of the capital, Grand Duke’s Stadium is the home of Astograthian sport. The largest stadium in the country, in association football it serves as the home ground of the Astograthian national team and annually hosts the finals of the Royal Cup, the Second Division promotion playoffs, and the Second Division B championship. Grand Duke’s Stadium features state-of-the-art facilities, full roofing over all seats, and retractable seating mounted over its blue-tinted athletics track. The ground has previously hosted the final of World Cup 62, in which The Holy Empire defeated Bears Armed 3–0; the final of the 8th Copa Rushmori, in which Polar Islandstates beat Western Cuba 2–0; the final of the 45th UICA Champions’ Cup, in which Turoki Tide defeated Raynor City United 1–0; and the finals of two Rushmori Copas de Campeones, including Liria Prizren of Mytanija’s 3–2 victory over Astograthian side Ituraitz FC.

by **Astograth** » Wed Mar 02, 2022 2:36 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 690 Preview – Part 1 (The Contenders)

Transfers

- Tomas Aer (PIS), who was last at Ituraitz FC, retired from football aged 70
- Mikel Aluztiza signed for Ituraitz FC

- Yonatoño De La Garza (FFD - LM) signed for Antiguoko FC from La Querida (FFD) for Đ5.26 M
- Ixaka Echeberz (RB) signed for Gortz United from AC Izotz Zubia (AUD) for Đ530 k
- Phoebe Corder (BRE - GK) signed for Ituraitz FC from Northern Union (BRE) as a free agent
- Tiburcio Hoyo (FFD - RB) signed for Ituraitz FC from a Faroleran amateur club (FFD) as a free agent
- Basil Lylac (NPH - CM) signed for Iturributa Racing Club from Meriador FC (TKT) as a free agent
- Ema Erdei (PAS - LB) signed for Royal Ibarbe from Avidë (PAS) for Đ790 k
- Pernille Lingaard (SVJ - RB) signed for Sporting Arkamo from Dynamo Sjoedrhavn (SVJ) for Đ530 k
- Arysa Hensser (NPH - DM) signed for Sporting Iturributa from Crisisbless (NPH) for Đ3.16 M
- Andrés Abrigo (VLD - RM) signed for Urbizania Wanderers from Anhedron Wanderers FC (TKT) for Đ2.89 M

- Tzeme Galdiano (CF) signed for Rülândéá Kôstä (FFD) from Urbizania Wanderers for Đ2.63 M
- Frantzes Benzoa (LM) signed for Mosul (ADB) from Urbizania Wanderers for Đ1.05 M
- Yaunzuria Urgoiti (CM) signed for Rülândéá Kôstä (FFD) from Iturributa Racing Club for Đ1.05 M
- Giro Pelua (LM) signed for Urrhed FC (CMT) from Gortz United for Đ790 k
- Ion Akeniolaza (RM) signed for Rülândéá Kôstä (FFD) from Bakartirla Buccaneers for Đ630 k
- Hubert Courtois (DM) signed for VfL Reinbronn (STL) from Iturributa Racing Club for Đ390 k
- Neil Broadhead (TMB - LM) signed for Northern (SFD) from Urbitzo FC for Đ260 k
- Valery Babykin (PYA - DM) signed for Railyard (SFD) from Miners FC for Đ160 k
- Duenerth Dufour (GVN - CF) signed for Tenth Star Hasiera (AUD) from Urbitzo FC for Đ130 k
- Martin Staunt-Anderson (ZWZ - DM) signed for Tenth Star Hasiera (AUD) from Urbitzo FC for Đ130 k
- Arixo Salayaran (CB) signed for Kistina Galaxy (PFA) from Astograth University as a free agent
- Xuban Sarasketa (DM) signed for Kingsgrove (BRE) from Basabe Old Boys as a free agent
- Eguktuxidor Astograthiko Unibartzitatea (AM) signed for Rülândéá Kôstä (FFD) as a free agent
- Yokin Erdokiain (CF) signed for AC Izotz Zubia (AUD) on loan from Urbizania Wanderers

- Panfilo Napoleoni (JUE - DM) signed for Antiguoko FC from Sporting Iturributa as a free agent
- Erruki Giyamondegi (CB) signed for Antiguoko FC on loan from Ituraitz FC
- Andikona Urburu (CB) signed for Antiguoko FC on loan from Royal Rumiatzi
- Oinatz Mendiondon (GK) signed for Army United from Bakartirla Buccaneers for Đ120 k
- Hissho Munuzo (HIN - CB) signed for Astograth University from Royal Ibarbe for Đ790 k
- Bihar Raldua (GK) signed for Astograth University from Gortz United for Đ420 k
- Johan Coalfield (BRE - LB) signed for Astograth University from Urbitzo FC for Đ210 k
- Damyan Nifterik (ESH - CF) signed for Astograth University from Sporting Arkamo as a free agent
- Yasone Zubiate (CB) signed for Astograth University on loan from Royal Rumiatzi
- Oinaz Kamon (LM) signed for Athletic Club Olarria from Echegoyan FC for Đ500 k
- Urrecha Lizaraso (LB) signed for Athletic Club Olarria from East Railway for Đ500 k
- Declan Davies (HVY - GK) signed for Athletic Club Olarria from Basabe Old Boys for Đ210 k
- Enetz Tutor (DM) signed for Athletic Club Olarria from Echegoyan FC as a free agent
- Aitzol Adria (LM) signed for Athletic Club Rumiatzi on loan from Antiguoko FC
- Larendi Benyuria (LB) signed for Athletic Club Rumiatzi on loan from Gortz United
- Inautzi Loaiza (AM) signed for Athletic Club Rumiatzi on loan from Athletic Club Olarria
- Deunoro Loyola (RM) signed for Bakartirla Buccaneers from Echegoyan FC for Đ630 k
- Ward Cullen (NPH - RB) signed for Bakartirla Buccaneers from Urbitzo FC for Đ210 k
- Atzo Kampo (CF) signed for Bakartirla Buccaneers from Ituraitz Victory for Đ190 k
- Argider Eges (DM) signed for Bakartirla Buccaneers on loan from Royal Rumiatzi
- Olaiz Baskary (GK) signed for Bakartirla Buccaneers on loan from Royal Rumiatzi
- Erauso Teyitegi (CB) signed for Bakartirla Buccaneers on loan from Ituraitz FC
- Haitz Erriest (LB) signed for Basabe Old Boys from Astograth University for Đ180 k
- Alesander Mouton (DM) signed for Basabe Old Boys from Sporting Olarria for Đ90 k
- Behe Binion (GK) signed for Basabe Old Boys from Ibarbe Sport for Đ80 k
- Hibai Alkorta (RB) signed for Basabe Old Boys from Gortz United as a free agent
- Aire Kobelas (RB) signed for Blue Mountain Range from Ituraitz FC for Đ470 k
- Alarabi Meabebasterrechea (CB) signed for Blue Mountain Range from Bakartirla Buccaneers for Đ190 k
- Robin Harrysson (GRF - RM) signed for Blue Mountain Range from Urbizania Wanderers
- Munia Alzuagaray (CB) signed for Blue Mountain Range on loan from Royal Rumiatzi
- Eleazar Leniz (GK) signed for Dockyard Oaks from Astograth University for Đ170 k
- Mazuste Igerabide (CF) signed for East Railway from Antiguoko FC for Đ210 k
- Darian Bloodoff (TKT - CF) signed for East Railway from Miners FC for Đ110 k
- Sakia Damani (CMT - LM) signed for East Railway from Ituraitz Victory as a free agent
- Franchizko Irrazabal (CM) signed for East Railway from Gesterlake FC as a free agent
- Jake Swisher (SFD - AM) signed for East Railway from Urbitzo FC as a free agent
- Adaxa Kaoñahani (TXA - CB) signed for Echegoyan FC from Royal Rumiatzi for Đ680 k
- Arnalt Bergerot (RB) signed for Echegoyan FC from Bakartirla Buccaneers as a free agent
- Hitzeder Echegoyen (LM) signed for Echegoyan FC on loan from Gortz United
- Beila Montobio (DM) signed for Echegoyan FC on loan from Royal Ibarbe
- Zuriko Ayuria (GK) signed for Erribe United from Athletic Club Olarria for Đ190 k
- Larendi Urgain (CF) signed for Erribe United from Astograth University for Đ50 k
- Itzaina Hegichussy (GK) signed for Ezkutia MFC from Echegoyan FC for Đ90 k
- Ortze Leibar (LM) signed for Garitzeta Racing Club from Antiguoko FC for Đ200 k
- Oitia Aldeko (GK) signed for Garitzeta Racing Club from Athletic Club Olarria for Đ150 k
- Adur Hiriart (RB) signed for Garitzeta Racing Club from Astograth University as a free agent
- Erramun Notzadal (LM) signed for Gesterlake FC from Ituraitz Victory for Đ230 k
- Lore Eskosteguy (DM) signed for Gesterlake FC from Iturributa Racing Club for Đ70 k
- Unax Goyenola (GK) signed for Gortz United from Bakartirla Buccaneers for Đ1.05 M
- Arnold Donaldson (KHD - CB) signed for Gortz United from Blue Mountain Range for Đ790 k
- Adrian Dassault (TKT - CB) signed for Gortz United from Blue Mountain Range for Đ530 k
- Lehoiar Oztolaza (CM) signed for Gortz United from Miners FC for Đ500 k
- Yaizki Gamino (CM) signed for Gortz United from Urizaharra FC as a free agent
- Gunutz Sagarribay (GK) signed for Ibarbe Sport from Astograth University as a free agent
- Domiku Indurain (RM) signed for Ibarbe Sport on loan from Iturributa United
- Mederi Oilhaborda (DM) signed for Ituraitz FC from Urbitzo FC as a free agent
- Habette Montreaux (HIN - LM) signed for Ituraitz Victory from Athletic Club Olarria for Đ530 k
- Yuaneizu Aranda (AM) signed for Ituraitz Victory from Urbizania Wanderers for Đ410 k
- Eleanor Schaefer (NPH - RB) signed for Ituraitz Victory from Basabe Old Boys for Đ260 k
- Goizeder Lefer (LB) signed for Ituraitz Victory from Erribe United for Đ240 k
- Diegoche Ulbina (LM) signed for Ituraitz Victory from Athletic Club Rumiatzi as a free agent
- Lauaxeta Salayaran (CB) signed for Ituraitz Victory on loan from Gortz United
- Lore Kartery (CM) signed for Iturributa Racing Club on loan from Athletic Club Olarria
- Pierres Lamikiz (LM) signed for Iturributa Racing Club on loan from Royal Rumiatzi
- Gareth Menat (NPH - DM) signed for Iturributa Racing Club from Iturributa United as a free agent
- Xalbador Achabalastra (RM) signed for Iturributa Racing Club from Urbitzo FC for Đ180 k
- Kaiet Echassandage (CF) signed for Iturributa Racing Club from East Railway for Đ130 k
- Perucho Unda (AM) signed for Iturributa United from Antiguoko FC for Đ660 k
- Haitz Layeni (CM) signed for Iturributa United from Ituraitz Victory for Đ580 k
- Arnesa Darroze (NPH - DM) signed for Iturributa United from Ituraitz FC for Đ530 k
- Egoi Lea (RM) signed for Iturributa United from Athletic Club Rumiatzi for Đ530 k
- Argoitz Larruy (CB) signed for Miners FC from Astograth University as a free agent
- Inchixu Sorazabal (RB) signed for Miners FC from Iturributa United as a free agent
- Yake Galparsoro (GK) signed for Old City Central from Ituraitz FC for Đ110 k
- Otsando Malharro (CM) signed for Oyardo FC from Sporting Olarria for Đ190 k
- Errosali Anduze (RM) signed for Oyardo FC from Athletic Club Rumiatzi for Đ70 k
- Seber Mendiara (LB) signed for Oyardo FC from Athletic Club Rumiatzi as a free agent
- Dominix Renteria (RB) signed for Oyardo FC from Echegoyan FC as a free agent
- Kamil Zinkovsky (MYT - CB) signed for Royal Ibarbe from Echegoyan FC for Đ530 k
- Azubeli Arana (GK) signed for Royal Ibarbe from Antiguoko FC as a free agent
- Oxarra Nabarrete (RB) signed for Royal Ibarbe from Sporting Iturributa as a free agent
- Anartz Ugeruaga (CB) signed for Royal Ibarbe from Urbitzo FC as a free agent
- Pudes Urket (CB) signed for Royal Rumiatzi from Echegoyan FC for Đ790 k
- Guchi Oyea (DM) signed for Royal Rumiatzi from Antiguoko FC as a free agent
- Hegoi Alberbide (DM) signed for Sporting Arkamo from Basabe Old Boys as a free agent
- Hurko Barreneche (CF) signed for Sporting Arkamo on loan from Ituraitz FC
- Yanpier Bordenabe (RB) signed for Sporting Arkamo on loan from Urbizania Wanderers
- Galoer Barrinaga (LM) signed for Sporting Ibarguren from Sporting Olarria for Đ220 k
- Urbez Altera (GK) signed for Sporting Ibarguren from East Railway as a free agent
- Irakusne Hecharri (CB) signed for Sporting Iturributa from Royal Ibarbe for Đ1.05 M
- Yuaneizu Mendia (RB) signed for Sporting Iturributa from Royal Ibarbe for Đ680 k
- Baiardo Badostain (DM) signed for Sporting Olarria on loan from Athletic Club Olarria
- Apat Riz (LM) signed for Sporting Olarria on loan from Ituraitz FC
- Iyart Berrondo (CM) signed for Sporting Olarria on loan from Iturributa United
- Gaxan Bandola (CB) signed for Urbitzo FC from Sporting Olarria for Đ180 k
- Gurutz Galzagorri (CF) signed for Urbitzo FC from Athletic Club Rumiatzi for Đ160 k
- Ametz Rekabarren (RM) signed for Urbitzo FC from Ibarbe Sport for Đ160 k
- Iraitz Echekopaz (RB) signed for Urbitzo FC from Blue Mountain Range as a free agent
- Mederi Elisalde (DM) signed for Urbitzo FC from Astograth University as a free agent
- Ekaitz Hecharri (LM) signed for Urbitzo FC from Iturributa United as a free agent
- Yuango Horma (LB) signed for Urbitzo FC from Royal Ibarbe as a free agent
- Martí Donat (TEQ - CB) signed for Urbizania Wanderers from Gortz United for Đ1.58 M
- Galindo Beobide (RB) signed for Urbizania Wanderers from Royal Ibarbe for Đ950 k
- Gabon Saralegi (AM) signed for Urbizania Wanderers from Urbitzo FC for Đ450 k
- Hitzeder Lizalde (CF) signed for Urbizania Wanderers on loan from Iturributa United
- Sein Lizaraso (CM) signed for Urizaharra FC from Ibarbe Sport for Đ210 k
- Gabirel Narbais (CM) signed for Urizaharra FC from Iturributa Racing Club for Đ80 k
- Guruzne Nabarret (LM) signed for Urizaharra FC from Urbizania Wanderers as a free agent
- Yaizki Poyo (CF) signed for Urizaharra FC from Iturributa Racing Club as a free agent
- Inge Oyaguren (RB) signed for Ximun Orieta FC from Sporting Arkamo for Đ130 k

- Alundra (DAI - CB), who was last at Antiguoko FC, retired from football aged 35
- Hanot Benaza (CB), who was last at Antiguoko FC, retired from football aged 36
- Selatse Yrigoy (CB), who was last at Astograth University, retired from football aged 38
- Gareth Carney (NPH - LB), who was last at Athletic Club Olarria, retired from football aged 35
- Xanti Ezeyza (CM), who was last at Athletic Club Rumiatzi, retired from football aged 37
- Aurre Oyamburo (CF), who was last at Athletic Club Rumiatzi, retired from football aged 34
- Ruisko Laurnagaray (AM), who was last at Athletic Club Rumiatzi, retired from football aged 36
- Beat Achekonanea (DM), who was last at Bakartirla Buccaneers, retired from football aged 34
- Lukasz Adalmek (ESH - RM), who was last at Bakartirla Buccaneers, retired from football aged 34
- Errapel Insunza (AM), who was last at Bakartirla Buccaneers, retired from football aged 36
- Hitz Suardiaz (LB), who was last at Basabe Old Boys, retired from football aged 36
- Yosepe Bezunartea (DM), who was last at Basabe Old Boys, retired from football aged 33
- Bide Izarriaga (RM), who was last at Basabe Old Boys, retired from football aged 35
- Janei Azbelyov (SRS - RM), who was last at Blue Mountain Range, retired from football aged 35
- Yake Gurina (CB), who was last at Blue Mountain Range, retired from football aged 35
- Dabi Elizondo-Egozkarra (DM), who was last at East Railway, retired from football aged 37
- Gero Sorrosua (AM), who was last at East Railway, retired from football aged 37
- Aitzol Nanklares (CM), who was last at East Railway, retired from football aged 33
- Yeremi Zalazar (CF), who was last at East Railway, retired from football aged 37
- Zabal Alkatena (CF), who was last at Echegoyan FC, retired from football aged 38
- Anselmo Sinagra (JUE - CB), who was last at Gortz United, retired from football aged 33
- Erphinstatdt Tstinstaphensteitd (AUD - CM), who was last at Gortz United, retired from football aged 37
- Esmail Wilhelm (ESH - CM), who was last at Gortz United, retired from football aged 36
- Asier Bardon (RB), who was last at Ibarbe Sport, retired from football aged 36
- Obeko Zabalegi (CB), who was last at Ituraitz Victory, retired from football aged 34
- Kaxen Arabehere (RB), who was last at Ituraitz Victory, retired from football aged 35
- Omar Mahir (ESH - AM), who was last at Ituraitz Victory, retired from football aged 33
- Musko Uriel (LB), who was last at Ituraitz Victory, retired from football aged 36
- Etor Aranket (RM), who was last at Iturributa Racing Club, retired from football aged 36
- Urdin Orortegi (CB), who was last at Iturributa Racing Club, retired from football aged 35
- Echepare Lapitzondo (LM), who was last at Iturributa Racing Club, retired from football aged 37
- Gaizka Zubisarreta (AM), who was last at Iturributa United, retired from football aged 33
- Sigurdur Arjonsson (SVJ - RB), who was last at Miners FC, retired from football aged 36
- Zohiartze Urkia (CB), who was last at Miners FC, retired from football aged 37
- Michaut Agos (DM), who was last at Miners FC, retired from football aged 35
- Edur Iun (GK), who was last at Royal Ibarbe, retired from football aged 38
- Freek Lamaars (ESH - RB), who was last at Sporting Arkamo, retired from football aged 33
- Ixona Landeta (DM), who was last at Sporting Arkamo, retired from football aged 36
- Erauso Zugasti (CB), who was last at Sporting Iturributa, retired from football aged 36
- Eriz Mugiro (CB), who was last at Urbizania Wanderers, retired from football aged 33

Teams

Iturributa United, est. 523
Ground: Old City Stadium (72,000), Iturributa
Colours: White with red sash, red shorts, white socks
Major rivals: Sporting Iturributa (The Iturributan Derby), Royal Rumiatzi (political), Iturributa Racing Club (local), Royal Association (local-political)
Major honours: Cup Winners’ Cup 28, Copa de Campeones 16 & 18, 5 First Division titles, 4 Royal Cups, 3 Ides of March Cups, 7 Iturributan Premier Division titles, 3 Iturributan President's Cups, runners-up of UICA Champions’ Cups 39 & 52
Main sponsor: Badiola (vehicles)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 29.7 M
Seasons in the First Division: 30 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Dana Hutchins (EFL), _LB_ Isaac Doherty (EUR), _CB_ Janne Toivanen (SVJ), _CB_ Alex Rivers (KRY), _RB_ Zhu Aiguo (YZH), _DM_ Connor Macdonald (KSK), _DM_ Indartsu Lekea, _LM_ Fangti Pikolaugh (CMT), _RM_ Echeberri Herrekalde, _CF_ Lukas Bright (BRE), _CF_ Pristina Shine © (EQS)
Bench: _GK_ Victor Aguiar (CBZ), _GK_ Eyande Menta, _LB_ Palla Jagidar (SRS), _CB_ Ostots Yerro, _CB_ Gorka Ibatborde, _RB_ Ekaitz Pana, _DM_ Ekain Dirube, _DM_ Arnesa Darroze (NPH), _LM_ Arixo Leskerre, _CM_ Haitz Layeni, _RM_ Egoi Lea, _AM_ Perucho Unda, _CF_ Iraitz Algarin, _CF_ Echachu Zorraindo, _CF_ Iturri Barriola
Manager: Justin Vauxhall (BRE), 7th season in charge
Club reputation: Frenetic, energetic, populist. Driven to excel at whatever cost. The rowdy one of the two giants out of Iturributa.
Fans’ expectation: The title
Pundits’ prediction: 1st of 20
Notes: Iturributa United finally won the league after a 15-year wait, their longest-ever in any of the main league competitions they’ve taken part in. That it was achieved comfortably, and at the expense of a suffering Sporting Iturributa made it all the sweeter. This United has mastered discipline at the back through the command of Janne Toivanen and Alex Rivers, their full-backs terrorise the wings, and veterans Connor Macdonald, Indartsu Lekea. Going forward, their multi-pronged attack starring Pristina Shine has so far demolished every defence – except Blue Mountain Range. This season, triumphant manager Justin Vauxhall will be looking to defend the title and launch deep runs in the Champions League and the Copa de Campeones. To this end, he has focused on retaining his key players, signing depth – especially Arnesa Darroze from a weakened Ituraitz FC – and stewarding the Iturributa United squad of tomorrow, with a flurry of purchases of the most promising young players across the league. If they play their cards right, United could well establish dominance over the next few years.

Sporting Iturributa, est. 512
Ground: Old City Stadium (72,000), Iturributa
Colours: Crimson with gold chevron, crimson shorts and socks
Major rivals: Iturributa United (The Iturributan Derby), Royal Rumiatzi (political), Iturributa Racing Club (local), Royal Association (local-political)
Major honours: Cup Winners’ Cup 20, 6 First Division titles, 4 Royal Cups, 7 Iturributan Premier Division titles, 5 Iturributan President's Cups, UICA Iturributan Club of the Century
Main sponsor: IB Investments (finance)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 30.7 M
Seasons in the First Division: 30 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Lino Kaberle (STL), _LB_ Minerva Compton (KOR), _CB_ Irakusne Hecharri, _CB_ Thomas Kaberle (STL), _RB_ Baiona Menduburu, _DM_ Ferena Rauch (NPH), _DM_ Arysa Hensser (NPH), _LM_ Ohashi Kiichi (SQR), _RM_ Jeremiah Ruiz (ETN), _AM_ Gilamu Bengoechea, _CF_ Evangelino Pulido Castaneda (PAS)
Bench: _GK_ Orzaize Zubimendi, _GK_ Artzeina Alkatena, _LB_ Zilar Sarries, _CB_ Mogel Doyenard ©, _CB_ Oidor Lubiano, _CB_ Echachu Oriza, _RB_ Yuaneizu Mendia, _DM_ Xurdin Eskurdia, _DM_ Erruki Yauza, _CM_ Lehen Obia, _LM_ Trent Roberts (EUR), _RM_ Altzibar Ulbina, _AM_ Edur Elizahalde, _CF_ Xantalen Gastambide, _CF_ Marco Bruno (QAD)
Manager: Cheney Bittencourt (NPH), 2nd season in charge
Club reputation: Refined, classy, value a slow and methodical style of play. Think very highly of themselves. The snobbish one of the two giants out of Iturributa.
Fans’ expectation: The title
Pundits’ prediction: 2nd of 20
Notes: Manager Cheney Bittencourt has one task ahead of him: win the league. Last season was already, points-wise, a marked improvement upon Mikel Aluztiza’s tenure – now that needs to translate into silverware, hopefully with some strong wins in the Iturributan Derby included. Sporting have dispensed with the services of veteran Juven midfielder Panfilo Napoleoni and replaced him with the headline-grabbing Arysa Hensser, a Nepharan international. Her partnership with compatriot Ferena Rauch could make Sporting’s the most fearsome midfield in the league; no other team in the First Division can boast two Cormorants, and there’s no one better than Cheney Bittencourt to get the most out of them. There’s also been big changes in the team’s famously strong defence: Astograthian international Irakusne Hecharri, who once played for Sporting’s women’s team, has been signed back to the senior, mixed side. Centre-back Thomas Kaberle, brother of star goalkeeper Lino Kaberle, is also set to be promoted to the starting lineup ahead of captain Mogel Doyenard, who is stepping aside in his final season of football. One annoyance that the board were unable to solve this break was sorting out a proper successor for 35-year-old playmaker Gilamu Bengoechea, who enjoyed his finest hour last year – he was named 2nd best Player of the Season – but who surely can’t keep that going much longer.

Royal Rumiatzi, est. 541
Ground: Knights' Stadium (70,000), Rumiatzi
Colours: White shirt, royal blue shorts and socks
Major rivals: Athletic Club Rumiatzi (The Rumiatzi Derby), Iturributa United, Sporting Iturributa (both political), Ituraitz FC (competitive), Urbizania Wanderers (regional), Astograth University (local)
Major honours: Cup Winners’ Cup 25, Copa de Campeones 22, 11 First Division titles, 9 Royal Cups, Aéropag Football Invitational 22, 1 Ides of March Cup
Main sponsor: Dukomm (telecomms)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 29 M
Seasons in the First Division: 45 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Konrad Matheny (NPH), _LB_ Loxjilo Exihosahar (FFD), _CB_ Iñaki Imabayama (HIN), _CB_ Aztore Andia, _CB_ Pudes Urket, _RB_ Victoire De Saint-Pierre (CMT), _LM_ Gasteiz Yrisarri, _CM_ Guy Reason (FFD), _RM_ Nolan Moore (TKT), _CF_ Danica Marinkovic (NPH), _CF_ Martin Blessed © (EUR)
Bench: _GK_ Lore Soloaga, _GK_ Gorri Elizondo, _LB_ Silban Elichagaray, _CB_ Apal Aizkorbi, _CB_ Kasen Urriaga, _RB_ Slobodan Vujovic (MYT), _DM_ Guchi Oyea, _LM_ Petrarch Karaiskakis (NPH), _CM_ Leheren Goyhenespe, _CM_ Davidov Rominevskiy (TWI), _RM_ Renee Shaver (CDG), _AM_ Ubelteso Peruchena, _CF_ Artizar Kiordia, _CF_ Urbasa Aldanondo, _CF_ Berasko Korradi
Manager: Jerome Jaffacake-Phillips (KRY), 2nd season in charge
Club reputation: Rich, powerful, will settle for nothing but the best. Trophies are the goal, or heads will roll. Incredibly insecure over the lack of UICA/IFCF success.
Fans’ expectation: The title
Pundits’ prediction: 3rd of 20
Notes: Every season that Royal Rumiatzi doesn’t win the First Division is acrimonious, and the last was no exception. Jerome Jaffacake-Phillips ended the season on a fine note by winning the Royal Cup, but will now be feeling the heat to deliver in the league, the Challengers Cup and the Cup Winners’ Cup. Despite ascribing the team’s limitations to his limited say in the squad composition, Jaffacake-Phillips has only made conservative changes this time around, bringing in defender Pudes Urket from Echegoyan and employing an aggressive loaning strategy to help develop Rumiatzi’s youngsters. Captain Martin Blessed has announced this will be his last season before retirement, and with deadly strike partner Danica Marinkovic will be hoping to make the most of it.

Urbizania Wanderers, est. 523
Ground: Cherketzo Arena (53,200), Urbizania
Colours: All dark green
Major rivals: Ituraitz FC (competitive), Royal Rumiatzi, South Factory, Astograth University (all regional)
Major honours: UICA Champions’ Cup 43, 8 First Division titles, 7 Royal Cups
Main sponsor: Duchess Airways (airline)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 28.1 M
Seasons in the First Division: 45 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Dieje Ibrelaná (FFD), _LB_ Roman Palomer (SVG), _CB_ Martí Donat (TEQ), _CB_ Zeruko Echeberria, _RB_ Ageio Osinde, _DM_ Ibon Irisarre ©, _DM_ Yoshimi Hirahito (TAE), _LM_ Alexis Durmisi (VLD), _RM_ Andrés Abrigo (VLD), _AM_ Julian Mann (EUR), _CF_ Brandon Irving (SNL)
Bench: _GK_ Ostadar Eriksen, _GK_ Bidari Worner, _LB_ Guruzne Beraza, _CB_ Gilen Kaparra, _CB_ Ilazki Balaich, _CB_ Zuhaitz Alurralde, _RB_ Galindo Beobide, _DM_ Diegoche Yauregizar, _DM_ Distiratsu Oniate, _LM_ Pilare Garaza, _CM_ Yurdan Mandiola, _RM_ Bixincho Olate, _AM_ Gabon Saralegi, _CF_ Hitzeder Lizalde, _CF_ Balendin Betonazko
Manager: Eriz Bakaikoa, 9th season in charge
Club reputation: Value skillful, beautiful football. Vibe of an intimate, local club despite massive success.
Fans’ expectation: The title
Pundits’ prediction: 4th of 20
Notes: It’s been an interesting transfer season for Urbizania Wanderers. Centre-back Eriz Mugiro has retired and been replaced with Tequiloan Martí Donat from Gortz United, while right winger Robin Harrysson has moved to Blue Mountain Range and in his place comes Valladar Andrés Abrigo, for a considerable amount of money. Subdued striker Tzeme Galdiano was sold to Rülândéá Kôstä of Farfadillis after a bid that confused all of management; a slightly less surprising move was AC Izotz Zubia’s interest in Yokin Erdokiain – they’ve taken him on loan with a buy option. Finally, talented right-back Galindo Beobide has been signed from Royal Ibarbe and is expected to contest the starting position with Ageio Osinde, who has recently been getting national team callups. Of the traditional Top Five, Wanderers is the most forgiving with its managers, but as Eriz Bakaikoa settles into his ninth year at the helm even the most faithful supporters harbour doubts as to whether he’s still got it. Wanderers possessing the best midfield in the league is no longer indisputable, though they remain solid all around – and in Brandon Irving, nicknamed Elefantea by fans, they have a top striker in top form. Just have to hope he doesn’t get injured.

Gortz United, est. 561
Ground: Itsasargiberria Stadium (43,315), Gortz
Colours: All lavender
Major rivals: Gortz Academy (local), Ituraitz FC, Athletic Club Olarria (both regional-competitive)
Major honours: 1 First Division title
Main sponsor: Henrik (Polarian finance)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 26.5 M
Seasons in the First Division: 27 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Unax Goyenola, _LB_ Gartzen Boneta, _CB_ Marchelin Mezkiriz, _CB_ Arnold Donaldson (KHD), _RB_ Ixaka Echeberz, _DM_ Valtter Marvinsson (GRF), _CM_ Gunutz Yriberry, _CM_ Borna Marusic (MYT), _LM_ Shiloh Morgenstern (TAE), _RM_ Kolejes Marajis (FFD), _CF_ Tomofumi Ishimoda
Bench: _GK_ Xurdin Biyalain, _GK_ Orzaize Chaneke, _LB_ Garikoitz Keheiye, _CB_ Adrian Dassault (TKT), _CB_ Endira Ibarburu, _RM_ Eztebe Hegilein, _RB_ Balasi Lakar ©, _DM_ Kiliz Menbieye, _CM_ Lehoiar Oztolaza, _CM_ Yaizki Gamino, _LM_ Yon Sarra, _RM_ Umea Goyanes, _AM_ Xarles Lazkano, _CF_ Sabin Laza, _CF_ Eddie Bains (SCT)
Manager: Eneko Madariaga, 7th season in charge
Club reputation: The newest side to win the First Division. Resourceful, scrappy, fight to the end.
Fans’ expectation: IFCF qualification
Pundits’ prediction: 5th of 20
Notes: The inaugural title defence was never going to be easy, but an immediate fall to 5th place and struggle to even qualify for the Challengers Cup was perhaps more trouble than Gortz fans expected – especially by those who’re new to the bandwagon. Nevertheless, manager Eneko Madariaga has made some major signings, especially at the back: goalkeeper Unax Goyenola in from Bakartirla Buccaneers, Kohnhead’s Arnold Donaldson in from Blue Mountain Range, and Ixaka Echeberz, former starting right-back for the Astograthian national team, has returned to the First Division after a successful stint with the powerful AC Izotz Zubia of Audioslavia. Gortz are under pressure to stay in the title picture and establish themselves as a permanent member of the so-called “New Top Five”, replacing Ituraitz FC. It’s a mammoth task, but they’ve done worse.

Royal Ibarbe, est. 488/500 (disputed)
Ground: Erda Street (19,000), Ibarbe
Colours: Purple shirt, yellow shorts, purple socks
Major rivals: Ibarbe Sport, Ibarbe Youth (both local), Athletic Club Olarria (competitive)
Major honours: 1 Royal Cup
Main sponsor: Zerrigela (finance)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 20.5 M
Seasons in the First Division: 22 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Azubeli Arana, _LB_ Ema Erdei (PAS), _CB_ Kamil Zinkovsky (MYT), _CB_ Malin Ubbisdóttir (GRF), _RB_ Oxarra Nabarrete, _DM_ Younis Pyrite (ISK), _DM_ Guðmann Arentsson (GRF), _LM_ Osfral Leruose (TIO), _RM_ Echahun Dacharry ©, _AM_ Lumugue Niforro (TIO), _CF_ Robert Lucero (TKT)
Bench: _GK_ Bitor Eiguren, _GK_ Zilar Leskarboura, _LB_ Zeynel Abidin Birkan (TMR), _CB_ Birila Taiyade, _CB_ Huatxehai Exaimahe (TXA), _CB_ Anartz Ugeruaga, _RB_ Chuy Villaverde (FFD), _DM_ Chimich Jansson, _DM_ Franchizko Biurrarena, _LM_ Haritz Tauregi, _CM_ Chindoki Yano, _RM_ Silbane De Faumont (MRT), _AM_ Gau Urunaga, _CF_ Hustaz Urresti, _CF_ Ixaka Lairihoy
Manager: Ilazki Altzibararechuluaga, 6th season in charge
Club reputation: The 'nouveau riche' of the league. Historically a minor club, but have broken into and settled in the top half of the table.
Fans’ expectation: IFCF qualification
Pundits’ prediction: 6th of 20
Notes: Royal Ibarbe’s signings this off-season are young and solid, but not blockbuster like some frustrated fans were expecting. These include Pasargan left-back Ema Erdei, Mytanar-Astograthian centre-back Kamil Zinkovsky from Echegoyan, and goalkeeper Azubeli Arana from Antiguoko. On the other hand, fans will be very excited to see an Ibarbe Derby in the First Division for the very first time – against the newly-promoted Ibarbe Sport. The town of 300 thousand people, located just outside Rumiatzi, is the smallest to have two teams reach the top flight – and they have done so simultaneously, at that. If Royal Ibarbe can finally nail the consistency they’ve always lacked, they can be expected to soar into the Challengers Cup positions. Or, perhaps, as dark horse candidates to the title – after Gortz United’s breakthrough, who knows what’s possible?

by **Astograth** » Sat Mar 05, 2022 5:06 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 690 Preview – Part 2 (The Mid-table)

Sporting Arkamo, est. 542
Ground: The Bells (43,505), Arkamo
Colours: Brown and gold stripes, brown shorts, gold socks
Major rivals: Akialden Marauders (The Arkamo Derby), Izarloka FC, Lermendia FC (both regional), Antiguoko FC (regional-competitive)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Barrertze (lifestyle)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 17.7 M
Seasons in the First Division: 17 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Arano Ilaria, _LB_ Mayorga Orayen, _CB_ Loiola Urpi, _CB_ Cherran Peluaga, _RB_ Pernille Lingaard (SVJ), _LM_ Iaki Agerrebengoa ©, _CM_ Gomesano Sedero, _RM_ Udiarraga Irazustabarrena, _AM_ Gaston Urdingio, _CF_ Mogel Galdiano, _CF_ Larendi Gorriz
Bench: _GK_ Aurken Maruri, _GK_ Oxel Echaburu, _LB_ Luki Istekahandy, _CB_ Diegoche Hetagoyena, _CB_ Luki Bringas, _CB_ Fermin Chirizola, _RB_ Yanpier Bordenabe, _DM_ Hegoi Alberbide, _LM_ Loramendi Errakalde, _CM_ Ombre Pinnock (BRE), _RM_ Isidor Leibar, _AM_ Ortle Fletcher, _CF_ Hurko Barreneche, _CF_ Umea Akerra, _CF_ Bidari Mendigoechea
Manager: Bortzaioriz Lizandra, 4th season in charge
Club reputation: Reliable, well-managed club, do a lot with little. Wholesome countryside support. Rumoured to be favoured by the FAF.
Fans’ expectation: Top-half finish
Pundits’ prediction: 7th of 20
Notes: Sporting Arkamo finished last season on a high, achieving one of their best league finishes by placing 7th. If they can repeat that, they’ll be well on their way to long-term success. And manager Bortzaioriz Lizandra seems confident that it won’t take much to repeat it – it’s been a quiet off-season for Arkamo. They’ve signed Savojar right-back Pernille Lingaard to replace retired Eshani captain Freek Lamaars,, along with a couple of loanees – Hurko Barreneche and Yanpier Bordenabe – looking to restart their careers away from parents Ituraitz FC and Urbizania Wanderers. Arkamo have a strong attack, with Mogel Galdiano recently called up to the Astograthian national team, and a goalkeeper with similar international experience in Arano Ilaria, but doubts remain as to the pair of technically gifted but old and slow centre-backs. The midfield fulcrum is also fragile – Gomesano Sedero and Gaston Urdingio, the side’s creative outlets, are nearing retirement and prone to injury. If either give, the team may come to rely on Ombre Pinnock and Ortle Fletcher to hold them steady; would they be up to the task?

Athletic Club Olarria, est. 504
Ground: North Point Stadium (61,317), Olarria
Colours: Claret with sky blue hoop, claret shorts and socks
Major rivals: Sporting Olarria (The Olarria Derby), Ituraitz FC, Gortz United (both regional-competitive), Royal Ibarbe (competitive)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Amuarraina Errege (seafood)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 17.7 M
Seasons in the First Division: 34 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Ayuko Mitsushima, _LB_ Paskal Layinde, _CB_ Ubarna Aizpitarte ©, _CB_ Kara Lynch (TLI), _RB_ Iohana Mercado (ASU), _DM_ Santi Arankibia, _LM_ Izaskun Egiluz, _RM_ Amber Docherty (KSK), _AM_ Aingeru Edera, _CF_ Chindoki Irastorza, _CF_ Olentzaro Anseoteori
Bench: _GK_ Declan Davies (HVY), _GK_ Astigar Muhaburu, _LB_ Urrecha Lizaraso, _CB_ Ichaso Medinabeitia, _CB_ Galindo Utesa, _CB_ Johnson Mcjohnsom (PFA), _RB_ Neil Blackwood (CBP), _DM_ Enetz Tutor, _CM_ Gorosti Espos, _LM_ Oinaz Kamon, _RM_ Matin Galarke, _AM_ Goiz Izurreta, _CF_ Hats Chapartegi, _CF_ Elatzar Lassa, _CF_ Imanol Bethularan
Manager: Ametz Montalban, 3rd season in charge
Club reputation: Consistent, but can't break the glass ceiling of a title win. Feel they've paid their dues, yet overlooked and underrated.
Fans’ expectation: Top 6
Pundits’ prediction: 8th of 20
Notes: Fans of Athletic Club Olarria have been less than enthused by the last few seasons. For decades, everyone would’ve bet that the next new club to win the First Division would be them. Instead, it was Gortz United, and AC Olarria remain without a single national trophy to their name. Worse, they’ve been slipping in the First Division while Gortz, Royal Ibarbe, and even Sporting Arkamo rise above them. If manager Ametz Montalban can’t deliver a Royal Cup, Challengers Cup qualification, or at least a strong 6th-place, he’s done. To his credit, he has so far overseen a successful generational shift at the club, with a healthy mix of young and old players across the squad; defenders Kara Lynch and Iohana Mercado have been especially well-received. Every year that right winger Amber Docherty, the team’s standout star, stays at the club is also a positive. Her loyalty to the team contrasts starkly with that of Olentzaro Anseoteori, erstwhile fan favourite who has for the second time in two seasons tried to force a transfer abroad and failed miserably. The drama surrounding Anseteori has exhausted fans, teammates, and management, caught between needing his goals and wanting him gone for good when his contract finally expires at the end of this season. No matter what happens, this will be a memorable year for AC Olarria: their age-old city rivals, Sporting Olarria, have won promotion to the top-flight, and the first-ever First Division clashes will take place between the two. The rivalry has lost its edge over the many years it has lain dormant – but, with both sides on a precipice, it may not take much to blaze into life.

Blue Mountain Range, est. 518
Ground: Ximun Orieta Sporting Ground (34,000), Echegoyan
Colours: All sky blue
Major rivals: Echegoyan FC (The Echegoyan Derby), Miners FC (local)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Weaver, Smith & Wrangler (Taeshani apparel)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 15.2 M
Seasons in the First Division: 42 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Leheren Burunzangaray, _LB_ Santiago Santiago (TAE), _CB_ Azeari Iturria, _CB_ Eyande Osamiz, _CB_ Daigo Coshan © (TAE), _RB_ Danni Reed (QOD), _DM_ Benjamin Breunig (SWR), _DM_ Inoki Legisamon, _LM_ Gorka Urtaran, _RM_ Robin Harrysson (GRF), _CF_ Anaia Olabegogaeskoecha
Bench: _GK_ Atze Labadie, _GK_ Matia Kendagorta, _LB_ Lapurdi Esparra, _CB_ Alarabi Meabebasterrechea, _CB_ Munia Alzuagaray, _CB_ Arnaitz Urenga, _RB_ Aire Kobelas, _DM_ Geun Mee-Kyong (HIN), _DM_ Rosalia Prince (EFL), _LM_ Yanpier Aroix, _CM_ Armando Caruso (SVG), _RM_ Arixo Gorostidi, _AM_ Mayorga Muniakas, _CF_ Gerazan Legazpi, _CF_ Jacky Abatantuono (JUE)
Manager: Xander McDrew (TAE), 6th season in charge
Club reputation: Ultra-defensive, ultra-physical. Ugly tackles, ugly football. Extremely consistent. Reviled by most but wildly popular in Taeshan.
Fans’ expectation: Top-half finish
Pundits’ prediction: 9th of 20
Notes: Blue Mountain Range have enjoyed some golden years under manager Xander McDrew, having played in the Challengers Cup for the first time ever and staying their usual course while rivals Echegoyan FC – and now even Ituraitz FC – flop and flounder. BMR know that the real trophy is to just keep playing. To that end, they need to prepare for a future without Taeshani captain Daigo Coshan, who has become their talisman under the McDrew administration. The 36-year-old former international is set to retire, and BMR responded by selling off two of his potential successors to Gortz United. The Mountaineers certainly have faith that their academy will keep churning out top-class players; for the short-term they’ve signed veteran centre-back Alarabi Meabebasterrechea from Bakartirla Buccaneers and Munua Alzuagaray on loan from Royal Rumiatzi. Academy products Azeari Iturria and Anaia Olabegogaeskoecha are also expected to play an important role in the starting lineup this season. Their two other signings are big ones: Robin Harrysson, previously a starting right winger for Urbizania Wanderers, is massive. They’ve also taken right-back Aire Kobelas, who was highly rated before his ill-fated spell at Ituraitz FC, off the Reds’ hands. Like every single year, BMR can be trusted to finish around 10th.

Ituraitz FC, est. 577
Ground: Ituraitz Sporting Ground (63,000), Ituraitz
Colours: All red
Major rivals: Ituraitz Victory (The Ituraitz Derby), Urbizania Wanderers, Royal Rumiatzi (both competitive), Athletic Club Olarria, Gortz United (both regional-competitive), Ximun Orieta FC (local)
Major honours: UICA Champions’ Cup 47, UICA Globe Cup 45, UICA Super Cup 44, Copa de Campeones 20, 9 First Division titles, 6 Royal Cups, Aéropag Football Invitational 25, 4 Ides of March Cups, UICA Astograthian Club of the Century
Main sponsor: Chistorra Sarlange (charcuterie)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 16.9 M
Seasons in the First Division: 45 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Fernando Armida (STB), _LB_ Mirande Anibardo ©, _CB_ Mike Sloah (SNL), _CB_ Amar Kovacevic (MYT), _RB_ Tiburcio Hoyo (FFD), _LM_ Ander Ametrano, _CM_ Puristina Shinra (HIN), _CM_ Elsebeth Celustka (NPH), _RM_ Ari Hlynursbur (GRF), _CF_ Modevideo Carpi (QUR), _CF_ Peyo Isamendi
Bench: _GK_ Phoebe Corder (BRE), _GK_ Herensuge Ondarra, _LB_ Bardol Agirrezabalaga, _CB_ Cherran Goyeche, _CB_ Aes Echeluz, _CB_ Titus Baranzano, _RB_ Cheru Lizarza, _DM_ Mederi Oilhaborda, _LM_ Orixe Mantinian, _CM_ Iparragirre Paldao, _RM_ Kalare Kiriza, _AM_ Dominix Birto, _CF_ Meir Dowling-Dockson (EFL), _CF_ Mâánéràtö Jíí (FFD), _CF_ Xantalen Bikandi
Manager: Mikel Aluztiza, 1st season in charge
Club reputation: Historically successful, attractive, cosmopolitan; now struggling to return to that image. The world champion 654-55 Ituraitz is often regarded as the best Astograthian team of all time.
Fans’ expectation: IFCF qualification
Pundits’ prediction: 10th of 20
Notes: Ituraitz FC is a burning car wreck, and over the last century they’ve accrued no shortage of people willing to pour more fuel on it. Their squad, already weakened and demoralised from the last few years of sinking into the midtable, has been further picked apart by the sale of midfielder Arnesa Darroze to Iturributa United and the departure of right-back Aire Kobelas to Blue Mountain Range at discount prices. Erauso Teyitegi, once heralded as a top centre-back, has been sent on loan/exile to Bakartirla Buccaneers after a season to forget. The gloom, desperation, and incompetence at the club are making it difficult to attract quality replacements for the talent that Ituraitz is bleeding – the most emblematic case being Tiburcio Hoyo, a 20-year-old complete unknown from Farfadillis who has been promoted to the starting lineup, in order to phase out veteran Cheru Lizarza and his worn-out ankles. What major players the club still has, such as Ari Hlynursbur, Mike Sloah, and Fernando Armida, are being dragged down and must surely be looking closely at their contracts for a way out. The man who has been hired to make sense of the disaster – and hopefully turn it around – is Mikel Aluztiza, who was until last season manager of Sporting Iturributa. Fans of Gorriaka are divided on this, because Aluztiza has been a Sporting man all his life, one who played, lived, and breathed Sporting Iturributa. Sporting fans have found the appointment hysterical, because Aluztiza famously managed their club to a long series of last-minute meltdowns and runner-up finishes – but Ituraitz would kill to be runners-up right now, and could have done a lot worse than Aluztiza.

Antiguoko FC, est. 514
Ground: The Enclave (45,058), Antiguoko
Colours: Red and white quarters, red shorts and socks
Major rivals: Gesterlake FC, Royal Arexa (both historic), Sporting Arkamo (regional-competitive)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Yogutz (dairy)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 12.8 M
Seasons in the First Division: 19 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Ada Robertson (SCT), _LB_ Aratz Iarritu, _CB_ Inguma Labat, _CB_ Adon Aburto, _RB_ Arrosko Zugazti, _DM_ Panfilo Napoleoni (JUE), _DM_ Tier Chardin (KOR), _LM_ Yonatoño De La Garza (FFD), _RM_ Thierry Cailleux (HIN), _AM_ Uzuri Borthagaray ©, _CF_ Santikurtz Albar
Bench: _GK_ Lehen Nikoularena, _GK_ Hanot Echeto, _LB_ Hats Lizondo, _CB_ Otsando Erramundeguy, _CB_ Erruki Giyamondegi, _CB_ Andikona Urburu, _RB_ Sugoi Iniurrigarro, _DM_ David Brandon (IGR), _LM_ Raj Gupta (ETN), _RM_ Yaël La Reyne (OAM), _CM_ Zufiaurre Izurieta, _AM_ Haitz Hargindegi, _CF_ Kaiet Izurrategi, _CF_ Hegazti Idarreta, _CF_ Edur Ustarroz
Manager: Agoztar Ilarduya, 3rd season in charge
Club reputation: Combative, tireless. Pride of the city and the region.
Fans’ expectation: Mid-table finish
Pundits’ prediction: 11th of 20
Notes: Antiguoko have high hopes this season. They finished 8th this season in what was widely hailed as a mastermind performance by manager Agoztar Ilarduya and after this off-season their squad is potentially the best they’ve had in a very long time. Pundits are less convinced, because it looks like a series of gambles that could easily domino into a disaster. For one, they’ve sold their big goalscorer – Mazuste Igerabide – to East Railway, betting on the fact that he’s 33 and unlikely to repeat another strong season. His replacement is Santikurtz Albar, an unproven 19-year-old who –if inside sources are to be believed – has been promoted straight from the U21s to next season’s starting lineup. The club have also lost their popular goalkeeper, Azubeli Arana, to Royal Ibarbe, and replaced him with backup Ada Robertson, a Schottian with plenty of experience but on her last legs as a professional. The one fans are most excited to see is winger Yonatoño de la Garza, also 19 and an international with Farfadillis – but he can’t be that good if he’s signed for Antiguoko, pundits reason. If he were that good he’d be playing for a top team, not Antiguoko. Their third big signing is Juven defensive midfielder Panfilo Napoleoni from Sporting Iturributa, a veteran so seasoned he has made the 10th most appearances in the First Division – ever. That also means he’s old and, pundits say, washed-up to have been so unceremoniously kicked out of Sporting. Whatever the case, Antiguoko is going to surprise someone this season.

East Railway, est. 503
Ground: Narbaitza Memorial Stadium (36,226), Rumiatzi
Colours: Grey and black stripes, grey shorts and socks
Major rivals: South Factory (The Workers' Derby), Athletic Club Rumiatzi, Astograth University (local)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Zuanshi (Yue alcohol)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★ / Youth system ★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 11.4 M
Seasons in the First Division: 14 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Zhao Yong © (YZH), _LB_ Urtsin Belderrain, _CB_ Zohiartze Orokieta, _CB_ Goren Elizabe, _RB_ James Cartlidge (MUR), _DM_ Oxel Porkel, _DM_ Marisa Ohashima (HIN), _LM_ Sakia Damani (CMT), _RM_ Ilazki Oleaga, _AM_ Jake Swisher (SFD), _CF_ Mazuste Igerabide
Bench: _GK_ Goren Tamborindegi, _GK_ Ian Isoba, _LB_ Rachel Barrett (HAN), _CB_ Satordi Uzandizaga, _CB_ Chindoki Moriyas, _RB_ Artizar Anteo, _DM_ Kaxen Algarin, _DM_ Gero Tamborindegi, _LM_ Ubarna Maturana, _CM_ Franchizko Irrazabal, _CM_ Kismi Galainena, _RM_ Errando Zufiaurre, _AM_ Yuli Nikoularena, _CF_ Darian Bloodoff (TKT), _CF_ Larendi Larraechea
Manager: Obeko Mundutegi, 11th season in charge
Club reputation: Working-class and proud of it. Substantial support from rail workers and enthusiasts nationwide. Punch above their weight.
Fans’ expectation: Mid-table finish
Pundits’ prediction: 12th of 20
Notes: Constrained by ballooning debt – mostly acquired to expand their stadium – East Railway have adopted a survival strategy of relying on free transfers and loanees that would normally be fit only for relegation stragglers. East Railway have, to Astograthians’ surprise, remained a mid-table side despite the cardboard foundation they’ve built for themselves. Their squad is a mix of academy players and veterans in their very last years of football, both always rotating, with a few gems thrown in – players like Sakia Damani and captain goalkeeper Zhao Yong. Manager Obeko Mundutegi can always fall back on his strong defence, but his options going forward are either a thousand years old or have never scored a professional goal.

Ituraitz Victory, est. 496
Ground: Ituraitz Sporting Ground (63,000), Ituraitz
Colours: Blue shirt, white shorts, blue socks
Major rivals: Ituraitz FC (The Ituraitz Derby), Ximun Orieta FC (local), Bakartirla Buccaneers (regional-competitive)
Major honours: 2 Royal Cups
Main sponsor: Petromok (oil & gas)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 12.4 M
Seasons in the First Division: 35 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Augustijn Kindvanevan (TSA), _LB_ Mastino Garofano (SVG), _CB_ Ilari Beola, _CB_ Gartzen Beraun ©, _RB_ Eleanor Schaefer (NPH), _DM_ Iracho Yeregi, _DM_ Goizeder Abadia, _LM_ Habette Montreaux (HIN), _RM_ Lezaeta Zarakondegi, _AM_ Yuaneizu Aranda, _CF_ Teyo Menbieye
Bench: _GK_ Mendebal Beheran, _GK_ Bilinch Legizano, _LB_ Goizeder Lefer, _CB_ Manu Amosain, _CB_ Xefe Bessouat, _CB_ Lauaxeta Salayaran, _RB_ Apal Gerenio, _DM_ Umea Lukastegi, _DM_ Intov-Gelan Nun (QUS), _LM_ Diegoche Ulbina, _CM_ Chordon Ytuarte, _RM_ Ugutz Iturriche, _AM_ Lastur Elorduy, _CF_ Sulpizio Plumb (MRT), _CF_ Izorne Espondeburu
Manager: Yaunti Echekopar, 8th season in charge
Club reputation: Venerable. Respected but pitied. Massively popular in their city, no matter the lack of success.
Fans’ expectation: Mid-table finish
Pundits’ prediction: 13th of 20
Notes: There has been much expectation for Ituraitz Victory to perform in the league after winning the Royal Cup in 687 and their subsequent run to the very final of the Cup Winners’ Cup, which they ended up losing on penalties to AC Izotz Zubia. They have largely failed to live up to that, with manager Yaunti Echekopar facing accusations of him and his team sleeping on their laurels. This off-season he has very pointedly forced changes through: a slew of important players, including stalwart Omar Mahir, have retired, and fans can expect to see a quite different starting eleven this season: playmaker Yuaneizu Aranda, Nepharan right-back Eleanor Schaefer, and Hinodejin streamer-winger Habette Montreaux are all big signings, while the young Lezaeta Zarakondegi and Ilari Beola are expected to play a greater role. Fan favourite striker Teyo Menbieye certainly Victory’s best player of recent years, has also been convinced to stick around. If Echekopar can make it all stick, Victory should be able to leave the slump behind.

by **Astograth** » Sat Mar 12, 2022 1:52 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 690 Preview – Part 3 (The Relegation Battle)

Bakartirla Buccaneers, est. 589
Ground: Sovereignty Stadium (14,110), Kala
Colours: Black and red stripes, black shorts, white socks
Major rivals: Ituraitz Victory (regional-competitive)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Visit Kala (tourism)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 11.7 M
Seasons in the First Division: 9 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Olaiz Baskary, _LB_ Zuzen Sandra, _CB_ Garikoitz Abaria, _CB_ Nacro Astro (PFA), _RB_ Ward Cullen (NPH), _DM_ Argider Eges, _DM_ Svetoslav Radozevic © (MYT), _LM_ Antso Biteri, _RM_ Deunoro Loyola, _AM_ Pia Aziz (MRT), _CF_ Tehmina Palani (SRS)
Bench: _GK_ Edur Yraola, _GK_ Anakoz Amezkita, _LB_ Asier Labiaga, _CB_ Erauso Teyitegi, _CB_ Errolan Gankiandia, _CB_ Ubelteso Larreagola, _RB_ Pes Arankedo, _DM_ Todor Echandi, _DM_ Pancheska Narbarte, _CM_ Goi Urtea, _LM_ Paolig Dessoubs-Le-Four (OAM), _RM_ Ur Bustingorri, _AM_ Mirande Garaeta, _CF_ Atzo Kampo, _CF_ Argi Lisarasu
Manager: Balendin Sorrekieta, 6th season in charge
Club reputation: Plucky, passionate, surprising. Small club from a small island. Low expectations, low pressure, happy to be here.
Fans’ expectation: Mid-table finish
Pundits’ prediction: 14th of 20
Notes: Bakartirla have been irregular the last few seasons, one year finishing comfortably in the top half, the other fearing relegation. Manager Balendin Sorrekieta is untouchable, however – he was predicted to lead the team straight back to the second tier, and has instead turned them into First Division regulars with a roguish appeal that stretches beyond their remote island home. They’ve made a big sale this off-season: national team goalkeeper Unax Goyenola lasted a single season before being whisked away to Gortz United. As a temporary replacement they’ve got Olaiz Baskary from Royal Rumiatzi on loan; she’s one of three high-profile loanees this season, together with midfielder Argider Eges, also from Royal Rumiatzi, and disgraced centre-back Erauso Teyitegi, on leave from Ituraitz FC after a disastrous season with the Reds. Goyenola’s sale has funded the purchase of three much-needed players: a young right midfielder in Echegoyan’s Deunoro Loyola, a no-nonsense right-back in Urbitzo’s Ward Cullen, and an experienced striker in Victory’s Atzo Kampo, capable of subbing in for Tehmina Palani. Sorrekieta is cultivating a younger squad, symbolised by the captaincy of Svetoslav Radozevic, the Bakartirla-born Mytanar international; if he can oversee its development like he intends, and with some luck. it could mature into a formidable team.

Echegoyan FC, est. 530
Ground: Silanes Park (55,140), Echegoyan
Colours: Green and white stripes, green shorts and socks
Major rivals: Blue Mountain Range (The Echegoyan Derby), Miners FC (local), Astograth University (competitive)
Major honours: 3 First Division titles, 1 Royal Cup, 1 Ides of March Cup
Main sponsor: Enersuntsu (alternative energy)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 9.6 M
Seasons in the First Division: 42 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Perucho Garabieta ©, _LB_ Aitor Errendasoro, _CB_ Koldobika Orbegozo, _CB_ Adaxa Kaoñahani (TXA), _RB_ Arnalt Bergerot, _DM_ Baladi Treko, _LM_ Hitzeder Echegoyen, _RM_ Urko Leaniz, _AM_ Mederi Marien, _CF_ Petrigai Orneta, _CF_ Telá Potos (TIO)
Bench: _GK_ Barto Wahl (ZRH), _GK_ Anton Duronea, _LB_ Lehoi Uribeondo, _CB_ Lander Kahe, _CB_ Kelmen Karrera, _CB_ Aurre Lete, _RB_ Isusko Keno, _DM_ Beila Montobio, _LM_ Marco Martingorena, _CM_ Rosenthorpe Thompsen (CMT), _RM_ Lauaxeta Lamikiz, _AM_ Sasoin Bibanko, _CF_ Erlantz Berhabe, _CF_ Balesio Leache, _CF_ Argider Barber
Manager: Iban Bachiondo, 4th season in charge
Club reputation: Hardy, tough, always up for a fight. Cheating bastards to many. Top team long ago, now on the margins.
Fans’ expectation: Mid-table finish
Pundits’ prediction: 15th of 20
Notes: Iban Bachiondo is, by all accounts, a tired man. 67 years old, as a player he was a towering presence with Echegoyan, the national team, and Mytanija’s Olympic Thessia. As a manager, he was a respected figure until taking charge of Astograth before the catastrophic World Cup 83 qualifying campaign, in which the team failed to win a single match. What followed were years in the desert, shame and public scorn forcing his retirement… until Echegoyan FC were relegated in 686. Bachiondo returned to his boyhood club as its saviour, immediately winning the Second Division and surviving in the top flight a further two seasons – not quite a return to their league-winning years, but enough. But now Bachiondo seems to be sticking around only because no one else wants to take the helm of Echegoyan… and though his return was a coat of fresh paint on the club, it’s now dried and peeling. Some of last season’s decisions, like signing 37-year-old Zabal Alkatena for old times’ sake, were never going to pan out, and even Bachiondo’s most adoring fans have qualms about how his ability to take Echegoyan higher. The team fields a playmaker – Mederi Marien – who is clearly not cut out for the role. The sales of bright stars like Oinaz Kamon, Kamil Zinkovsky, Pudes Urket, and Deunoro Loyola have brought in considerable funds, but of their replacements only Txakhaxi brute Adaxa Kaoñahani is convincing to fans – and he doesn’t have any of Zinkovsky’s decliate potential. Echegoyan have gone through worse and are a clear cut above the other relegation battlers, but fans are not optimistic.

Astograth University, est. 553
Ground: Arritzola (36,350), Rumiatzi
Colours: White and sky blue halves, sky blue shorts, white socks
Major rivals: Army United, South Factory, Royal Rumiatzi, Athletic Club Rumiatzi, East Railway (all local), Urbizania Wanderers (regional), Echegoyan FC (competitive)
Major honours: 2 First Division titles, 3 Royal Cups, Aéropag Football Invitational 23
Main sponsor: Koedalad (NGO)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 7.2 M
Seasons in the First Division: 34 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Bihar Raldua, _LB_ Johan Coalfield (BRE), _CB_ Hissho Munuzo (HIN), _CB_ Yasone Zubiate, _RB_ Zabal Barendiain, _DM_ Jin Shirong (YZH), _DM_ Iztal Anabia, _LM_ Urre Unamunzaga ©, _RM_ Unax Fernandez, _AM_ Garchot Dirassar, _CF_ Echachu Urtazu
Bench: _GK_ Teyo Darreche, _GK_ Bladi Gorospe, _LB_ Churio Berrozpe, _CB_ Nuxila Uhartemendia, _CB_ Hotz Balerdi, _CB_ Danel Andia, _RB_ Marchelie Korera, _DM_ Gartzen Oyo, _DM_ Bilbo Errainz, _CM_ Maore Ezama, _LM_ Inautzi Soyo, _RM_ Keop Benda, _AM_ Aurre Sarasola, _CF_ Damyan Nifterik (ESH), _CF_ Ximun Barona
Manager: Lekubegi Guerrikaechebarria, 4th season in charge
Club reputation: The club of the Rumiatzi middle class. Once a top team, now long fallen. Desperate to regain status.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 16th of 20
Notes: Lekubegi Guerrikaechebarria is generally regarded as a genius player and a boorish, clumsy attempt at everything else, including management. When he took over at long-relegated Astograth University, however, he exceeded expectations by bouncing back into the First Division. Last year his team were expected not to survive, but they did. Pundits, a class of which Guerrikaechebarria was once its most reviled member, have described this as his ‘redemption arc’. That might be premature, since University are far from settled into the First Division, but this off-season has left fans looking forward to the year: Guerrikaechebarria has taken a feather duster to the squad, batting away much of the deadweight the club still dragged from the Second Division. The loss of talented centre-back Arixo Salayaran on a free is a blow, but transfers have otherwise been praised: Hissho Munuzo, Johan Coalfield, Yasone Zubiate, and Damyan Nifterik are all talented and well-known to First Division fans. Their biggest signing is former national team goalkeeper Bihar Raldua: a tragic figure who has been bumped from the Olives, from Ituraitz FC, and now from Gortz United by younger players, but remains a phenomenally skilled player with title-winning experience. University’s defence has always been solid and that will remain truer than ever this season; the doubts lie in attack and in squad depth. An injury to the team’s playmaker, Garchot Dirassar, could be calamitous.

Ibarbe Sport, est. 519
Ground: Dr. Eriz Barandiaran (4,435), Ibarbe
Colours: All sky blue
Major rivals: Royal Ibarbe, Ibarbe Youth (both local)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Ezdairuzu (cryptocurrency)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 6.3 M
Seasons in the First Division: 1 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Gaueko Errekondo, _LB_ Berart Sesma, _CB_ Mikeldi Ibaberry, _CB_ Santikurtz Balensia, _RB_ Marko Bakedano, _LM_ Iztal Otaola, _CM_ Imanol Elgeta, _CM_ Eguzki Kirion, _RM_ Pudes Agotiborda ©, _CF_ Edorta Aniasko, _CF_ Gardotza Orderiz
Bench: _GK_ Gunutz Sagarribay, _GK_ Gilesindo Zariategi, _LB_ Ruisko Alsasua, _CB_ Errando Lobiano, _CB_ Ariturri Iralde, _RB_ Izaskun Agirriberri, _DM_ Iraunkor Tresarrieu, _CM_ Munia Lekea, _CM_ Berdoi Nazabal, _LM_ Ipar Lardizabal, _RM_ Domiku Indurain, _AM_ Xofre Basagania, _CF_ Orti Irustia, _CF_ Bihar Berrogain, _CF_ Goi Lasa
Manager: Aitor Bustingorry, 6th season in charge
Club reputation: By far the smallest club to reach the top flight. Their reputation is people confusing them with Royal Ibarbe, whom most people already regarded as a joke until the last decade. Linked to the local medical community.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 17th of 20
Notes: Club Sport, better known as Ibarbe Sport, did not compete in the Astograthian Football League until 674, 40 years after the league’s first formation. After 11 seasons, they won promotion to the Second Division in 684. Next season, despite being tipped for relegation, they immediately reached the promotion playoff final, losing in extra time to Old City Central. Then they reached the playoffs again. Next year they finished in mid-table, and people figured Ibarbe Sport’s near-promotions had been a fluke, perhaps a collective fever dream. Then they reached the playoff final again, losing to Astograth University. Next season they won the Second Division outright, and it wasn’t particularly close. Manager Aitor Bustingorry has crafted something truly special at Ibarbe Sport, the minnowest of minnows to reach the Astograthian top flight. Ibarbe is a wealthy town and Sport is something of an exclusive institution even there – but the story is just too good, the disparity too titanic for people not to find them fascinating. The FAF have, for the first time, granted a special dispensation from the league stadium standards so Sport can still play at their home ground while they up the capacity to at least 5,000 seats. The players are mostly new to the First Division, with the notable exceptions of striker Edorta Aniasko, veteran of Urbitzo and East Railway, and midfielder Domiku Indurain, loaned by Iturrbuta United. The ones to watch are in centre-midfielder, though: Imanol Elgeta and Eguzki Kirion are both 19 and form a dynamite partnership, Elgeta as the team’s creative outlet and Kirion as the dependable ball-winner.

Iturributa Racing Club, est. 475/500 (disputed)
Ground: The Hippodrome (22,160), Iturributa
Colours: Orange with black stripe, orange shorts and socks
Major rivals: Garitzeta Racing Club (The Racing Derby), Sporting Iturributa (local), Iturributa United (local), Royal Association (local-political)
Major honours: 3 Iturributan President's Cups
Main sponsor: The Legaspi Fund (NGO)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 5.4 M
Seasons in the First Division: 11 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Marchel Ekwekwe, _LB_ Eneko Lakaya ©, _CB_ Mederi Doxage, _CB_ Olar Zumaran, _RB_ Gorbea Gogenola, _DM_ Gareth Menat (NPH), _CM_ Lore Kartery, _CM_ Basil Lylac (NPH), _LM_ Zabal Zarasaga, _RM_ Xalbador Achabalastra, _CF_ Lore Urkidi
Bench: _GK_ Sesuldo Besga, _GK_ Musko Errasti, _LB_ Erauso Errandonea, _CB_ Aitziber Geikoechea, _CB_ Yasone Isarralde, _CB_ Azubeli Zubiaur, _RB_ Garoa Reterto, _DM_ Mayu Kortazan, _CM_ Kismi Kaizeda, _CM_ Ur Bustinse, _LM_ Pierres Lamikiz, _RM_ Urtungo Ureta, _AM_ Orkatz Ligorria, _CF_ Zeledon Ozta, _CF_ Kaiet Echassandage
Manager: Osasun Olagibe, 4th season in charge
Club reputation: Associated with the Iturributan aristocracy. Variously accused of being a slush fund or sportswashing front for the Legaspi family of mining magnates.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 18th of 20
Notes: Last season, Iturributa Racing Club were expected to drop back to the Second Division like a stone. Guided by a wily Osasun Olagibe and with some extraordinary individual performances, they managed to skirt just above the relegation zone and survive. Iturributa Racing then sold two of their best players, their midfield anchors: Hubert Courtois and national team starlet Yaunzuria Urgoiti. They’ve been replaced with two Nepharans, on free transfers: Gareth Menat, who got tired sitting on the bench for Iturributa United, and Basil Lylac from Tikariot’s Meriador FC. Venerable right midfielder Xalbador Achabalastra and 18-year-old Lore Kartery, loaned from Royal Rumiatzi, round out the team’s midfield renovation – but will it mesh? Will it be enough to stay up? Pundits reckon that, without the momentum of a recent promotion and their in-form players sold, Iturributa Racing will struggle.

Athletic Club Rumiatzi, est. 505
Ground: Gotorlekua (42,000), Rumiatzi
Colours: Blue and white stripes, blue shorts and socks
Major rivals: Royal Rumiatzi (The Rumiatzi Derby), South Factory, Astograth University, East Railway (all local)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Rumikola (soft drinks)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 5.4 M
Seasons in the First Division: 34 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Gogo Abin, _CB_ Eusko Landa, _CB_ Larendi Iboa, _CB_ Barea Bolea, _LM_ Aitzol Adria, _CM_ Xantalen Linzuain, _CM_ Otsando Zabay, _RM_ Ortze Ohets, _CF_ Satordi Albi, _CF_ Bidari Aberatain, _CF_ Benat Uriburu
Bench: _GK_ Hodei Libieta, _GK_ Urtungo Irasegi, _LB_ Larendi Benyuria, _CB_ Hustaz Yeso, _CB_ Ekhi Saraza, _RB_ Ximun Sarrua, _LM_ Urre Lagarde, _DM_ Aresti Besoitaormaechea, _CM_ Oskitz Anta ©, _RM_ Koldobika Gania, _AM_ Inautzi Loaiza, _CF_ Iriberri Larreburu, _CF_ Bilinch Zumarraga, _CF_ Ilari Zubiarrain, _CF_ Valeri Maunu
Manager: Kiliz Uriz, 3rd season in charge
Club reputation: Historically powerful and traditional rival of Royal Rumiatzi, but long since sidelined. Still enormously popular despite never winning a national title.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 19th of 20
Notes: Athletic Club Rumiatzi have become the league’s definitive yo-yo club, cursed to linger in the half-light between the first and second tiers. This season they make their return to the First Division after two years in the Second, and they’re not looking particularly attractive. Manager Kiliz Uriz has signed a few players on loan to give his team some depth, but the squad is otherwise largely unchanged from that which won promotion. Despite the bleak outlook for their senior team, Athletic’s academy is going through something of a golden age, producing a solid bunch of talented players that the rest of the league is keeping a close eye on. Uriz’s biggest win this off-season is retaining his two star midfielders, both of them barely 19 years old: Otsando Zabay and Ortze Ohets already proved themselves well above second-tier quality and could easily have gone elsewhere. If Athletic Rumiatzi avoid relegation it will have to be through them, striker Bidari Aberatain, and defender Eusko Landa.

Sporting Olarria, est. 518
Ground: The Emerald (13,766), Olarria
Colours: White shirt, sky blue shorts, black socks
Major rivals: Athletic Club Olarria (The Olarria Derby), Argos Olarria (local), Army United (historical)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Transkribia (translation services)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★ / Youth system ★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 5.4 M
Seasons in the First Division: 1 of 45
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Eusko Segurola, _LB_ Sotil Munioz, _CB_ Lamia Inchasti, _CB_ Semera Larreburu, _RB_ Milian Miura, _DM_ Baiardo Badostain, _DM_ Olaia Aniz, _CM_ Iyart Berrondo, _AM_ Ongile Landaruru, _AM_ Garbie Inorreta, _CF_ Terese Gabirondo ©
Bench: _GK_ Gentza Iriteity, _GK_ Beremundo Lakaya, _LB_ Dei Eskerdo, _CB_ Ilazki Orrego, _CB_ Oihenarte Ariztondo, _RB_ Asentzio Oria, _DM_ Marchel Gazet, _DM_ Zernin Ezkaray, _CM_ Formerio Oyonarte, _LM_ Apat Riz, _RM_ Diagur Sabaleta, _AM_ Kaiet Altzibararechuluaga, _AM_ Chordon Unzalo, _CF_ Ortze Adarzua, _CF_ Gotzon Zanalda
Manager: Churio Senosian, 7th season in charge
Club reputation: Olarria's 'other club', connected to the Royal Navy. Their fanbase is famously disliked and, by the extension, the rest of the club as well.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 20th of 20
Notes: Long-suffering Sporting Olarria have long hunted for a place in the First Division. It was only last season, in a playoff final against Ximun Orieta FC, that their dreams came true: 30 years after making their debut in the Second Division, they had at last reached the top flight of Astograthian football. Their chances of staying there, however, appear slim. The squad lacks star power and First Division experience, without much in the way of standout stars; attacking midfielder Garbie Inorreta turns some heads, but there’s little else to go on. Moreover, their rivalry with Athletic Olarria has lain dormant for so long that the board saw no problem with loaning a player – the talented Baiardo Badostain – from their cross-town enemies, a move that has not gone down well with certain bands of supporters. Sporting Olarria’s objective this season is thus twofold: stay up and assert dominance in Olarria. Both seem difficult if not nigh impossible.

by **Astograth** » Sun Mar 13, 2022 9:59 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 690 Review

The 45th season of the Astograthian Football League is now concluded.

First Division

Iturributa United had a very strong start to the season, remaining undefeated in their first 14 matches. After this, they stayed strong in the lead despite a string of draws against Arkamo, Antiguoko, and Bakartirla... until they lost 3–1 at Blue Mountain Range and then suffered a shocking 5–0 away defeat at East Railway on matchday 29. This allowed Sporting Iturributa, who defeated Ituraitz FC 2–0, to top the table. Days later, at the Iturributan Derby, a brace by Pristina Shine gave United the victory and put them back in front of the league battle… only to then lose at Urbizania Wanderers and drop into third place, a point behind both Sporting and Blue Mountain Range. United recovered with a furious 6–derby win over Iturributa Racing, which included a Shine hat-trick, and would put together a run of strong wins while Sporting sputtered. They retook the lead on matchday 34 with a 3–1 defeat of Athletic Olarria while Sporting Iturributa drew 1–1 with Gortz United. They retained a 1–point lead over Sporting until the penultimate match of the league season. With both teams playing away in simultaneous kickoff, it was Pristina Shine – who else – who gave United the 1–0 win over Ituraitz Victory; at Arritzola, it was Zabal Barendiain and Echachu Urtazu who scored for Astograth University’s 2–0 win over Sporting Iturributa, a result which also secured University’s safety from relegation. With one match left to play, Iturributa United were now unreachable. They had successfully defended their First Division title, their sixth overall, and done so in style. Pristina Shine outdid her numbers from last season, scoring a massive 33 goals – the record for most goals in a season now reads 37 (Shine), 33 (Shine), 29 (Carrera). She is the Player of the Season for the second time in a row and the third overall, matching Laborious Hawk’s record of three awards.

Sporting Iturributa were hot on the heels of Iturributa United all tournament, but it was another year of coming very close only to see it all undone in the final stretch. Of the last 6 league seasons, they have now been runners-up 5 times. Titles: none. ‘Bottlers’ is one of the softest comments directed their way by the rest of the league, not least the victorious Iturributa United. Points-wise, this was a phenomenal season, and things worked: Arysa Hensser proved herself a quality signing, her partnership with Ferena Rauch the engine of the team; Rauch herself was voted third best player of the season. The defence was tight, with centre-back Irakusen Hecharri demonstrating to be a worthy successor to Mogel Doyenard. It is a point of embarrassment, however, to have conceded more goals than United; Sporting’s defence is their trademark, United’s is attack. That’s just how it is. To be outdone in both adds salt to the wound. Fans have reason to be hopeful, though: Cheney Bittencourt’s tenure has only been on the up, the generational shift has been well-managed, and there’s room for big upgrades in certain key roles – namely Gilamu Bengoechea as playmaker. They also proved they’re not just generic bottlers, but specifically committed to finishing second; on the final matchday, when they could’ve had a harsher fall, they soundly beat Blue Mountain Range away to keep hold of their runners-up medal and Champions League position.

Blue Mountain Range was one of the season’s big stories. 3rd place is BMR’s highest-ever finish, and they are ecstatic for it. Taeshani manager Xander McDrew, together with Taeshani captain Daigo Coshan, has truly guided the team into a golden age. Their hyper-defensive style, marshalled by Coshan, has been perfected and executed better than ever, locking teams out to concede just 18 goals across 38 matches, the lowest of the season by a margin of 12. Their goalscoring, typically BMR’s downfall, was not lacking either: Anaia Olabegogaeskoecha cemented himself as the team’s new striker, but it was left midfielder Gorka Urtaran and his partnership with left-back Santiago Santiago that outshone everyone else: Urtaran scored 13 goals, fully a third of the team’s output, largely in conjunction with Santiago’s deep runs down the flank. Pulling the strings from the wing as an unconventional playmaker, Santiago earned himself recognition as the league’s second best player of the season. BMR’s title challenge came late in the season, but strong: they were a couple of wins away from being champions of Astograth. If McDrew can continue improving upon what he’s built, BMR can definitely establish themselves in the title picture – another nail in the coffin of rivals Echegoyan FC.

Urbizania Wanderers had a poor start to the season, losing 3–1 to rivals Ituraitz FC in the first match and struggling to put together a run of form after that. At the half-way point they sat in a mediocre 8th place, and kicked off the second round with another loss to Ituraitz and then a loss to Sporting Iturributa. Their results would pick up after that, notching important wins over Athletic Club Olarria, Blue Mountain Range, and Iturributa United. Wanderers steadily rose into the IFCF spots and finished 4th, good enough – but people are starting to lose patience with Eriz Bakaikoa’s ‘good enough’ and ‘looking forward to next season’. Individual performances were, at least, satisfactory: Dieje Ibrelaná remains one of the best keepers the league has seen, playmaker Julian Mann was on point, and new signing Andrés Abrigo banged in 12 goals from the wing. The evidence points to captain Ibon Irisarre, the team’s main defensive midfielder, being a rusty cog in the machine, and Wanderers need to find a good replacement if they want to get back to dominating possession and winning titles.

Athletic Club Olarria started their season with four wins in a row, including over Blue Mountain Range and Urbizania Wanderers. Then they drew with Echegoyan FC and hammered Athletic Rumiatzi for an incredible 8–3 scoreline. That shot them to the top of the league, where they would tussle with Iturributa United for several weeks until delivering United their first defeat. This would be the high point of their year. Athletic Olarria then lost to Royal Ibarbe and never recovered their tremendous form from the first third or so of the season, though they remained in the title picture until the final third and never dropped from the IFCF positions. This will go down as one of Athletic Olarria’s best seasons, and manager Ametz Montalban can rest easy in the knowledge that he has fulfilled his promise of more international football. The new derbies against Sporting Olarria were competitive, though not yet fiery; a 1–0 win for Athletic and a 0–0 draw, together with Sporting Olarria’s survival in the league, leave things open though slightly in Athletic’s favour.

Gortz United and Ituraitz FC followed similar trajectories this season, each chasing the other’s tail. Neither are left satisfied at season’s end: both had the Challengers Cup positions within their grasp and failed to get there, Gortz on head-to-head results, Ituraitz by 4 points. Moreover: they are scrambling to qualify for the Challengers Cup, an undignified situation for a team that is championship material (Gortz) and a team that has deluded itself into thinking it is championship material (Ituraitz). From a neutral perspective, this season was a setback for Gortz and a small improvement for Ituraitz, who looked likely to sink deeper into the mid-table. Manager Mikel Aluztiza may have found, against the odds, a way to turn the tide.

Sporting Arkamo had a strong season, keeping pace with the big boys and scoring a few big wins, such as a 1–0 over Urbizania Wanderers, a similar away victory at Sporting Iturributa, and a 5–0 demolishing of Bakartirla Buccaneers. Goalkeeper Arano Ilaria and winger captain Iaki Agerrebengoa stood out as key players, while national team striker Mogel Galdiano improved upon last year’s tally by scoring 18 goals – just one away from sharing bronze in the top scorer awards.

Royal Rumiatzi are in crisis, not unlike the panic suffered by Ituraitz FC a few seasons ago when they first dropped into the mid-table. 9th is a new low; manager ‘Jeremy Phillips-Jaffacake’ (‘or whatever’), as fans have taken to calling him, must go. If fans had their way, half the (very expensive) squad must go. This may be an overreaction, but Rumiatzi were indeed quite dreadful compared to their usual standard, conceding an obscene amount of goals for their usually airtight defence: a 5–4 loss to Antiguoko, one that was 5–2 against Ibarbe Sport, a 6–1 mauling by Ituraitz FC. Unacceptable, and a poor note for captain Martin Blessed to bow out on. His season was, at least, commendable: 19 goals, tied for third-most. His final goal, scored at Knights’ Stadium for his legion of adoring fans, was the 2–0 in Rumiatzi’s 3–2 win over Echegoyan; the other two authored by Danica Marinkovic, who was the league’s second top scorer and has steadily carved out her own status as one of Rumiatzi’s legendary strikers.

Antiguoko FC had a solid season, largely fulfilling expectations by remaining stable in the midfield. Their gambles paid off only partially: Santikurtz Albar, the 19-year-old promoted straight to starter, is indeed a good striker, but not the Next Big Thing they hoped. On the other hand, Yonatoño de la Garza, the Farf 19-year-old they bought, is indeed Very Good, and scored 13 as a winger. Panfilo Napoleoni, their veteran defensive midfielder, was decent on the pitch – but added much-needed experience to the young dressing room. Royal Ibarbe were hugely disappointed to finish only 12th when they thought they could battle for IFCF competition, especially in light of Athletic Olarria and Blue Mountain Range’s success. It has cast doubts on Ilazki Altzibararechuluaga’s job – perhaps Balendin Sorrekieta, his protégé from Bakartirla Buccaneers, would make a suitable replacement. Ituraitz Victory had a horrifying first half of the season, collecting just 14 points and deep in the relegation zone. Under new management, they rose into the mid-table, earning 31 points over 18 matches to a relatively comfortable finish.

Down in the pits, Astograth University, Ibarbe Sport, and East Railway flirted all season with relegation but remained stable enough to fend it off – a major feat for such a minnow club in Ibarbe Sport’s case. Bakartirla Buccaneers suffered a late-season collapse that saw them almost relegated – their final run of matches, with survival on the line, was a terrifying gauntlet against Royal Rumiatzi, Sporting Iturributa, and Athletic Club Olarria. Sporting Olarria played a very defensive season, with several heroic points rescued against the top teams in the league. Despite being heavily tipped for relegation, they earned their place for next season in a dramatic final matchday. Echegoyan FC went from better to worse over the course of the year, becoming embroiled in the relegation battle and finally succumbing to it in a gut-wrenching finale. While they lost 3–2 at Royal Rumiatzi, their hopes of a comeback cruelly dashed late in the match, their relegation rivals Sporting Olarria beat Urbizania Wanderers 2–1 in a show of grit, placing them 1 point above and sending Echegoyan tumbling once again into the Second Division, their second relegation in five years. Coupled with Blue Mountain Range’s ascendance, it is a brutally dark time for Echegoyan fans.

Taldo Lehan                Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Iturributa United        38   23  10   5    67   30  +37    79 Champions / Copa de Campeones / Champions League – 17th CC/CL appearance
 2 Sporting Iturributa      38   23   9   6    54   33  +21    78 Champions League – 23rd CC/CL appearance
 3 Blue Mountain Range      38   23   5  10    36   18  +18    74 Challengers Cup – 2nd GC/ChC appearance
 4 Urbizania Wanderers      38   19   9  10    47   34  +13    66 Challengers Cup – 24th GC/ChC appearance
 5 Athletic Club Olarria    38   18  11   9    53   40  +13    65 Challengers Cup – 3rd GC/ChC appearance
 6 Gortz United             38   19   8  11    52   36  +16    65
 7 Ituraitz FC              38   18   7  13    62   49  +13    61
 8 Sporting Arkamo          38   18   4  16    58   46  +12    58
 9 Royal Rumiatzi           38   15  10  13    58   52   +6    55
10 Antiguoko FC             38   15   7  16    60   59   +1    52
11 Royal Ibarbe             38   12   9  17    42   44   −2    45
12 Ituraitz Victory         38   12   9  17    45   60  −15    45
13 Astograth University     38   12   8  18    31   50  −19    44
14 Ibarbe Sport             38   10  13  15    45   57  −12    43
15 East Railway             38   11   9  18    40   44   −4    42
16 Bakartirla Buccaneers    38    9  13  16    45   50   −5    40
17 Sporting Olarria         38    9  12  17    30   46  −16    39
18 Echegoyan FC             38    8  14  16    50   60  −10    38 ↓ 3-year run
19 Athletic Club Rumiatzi   38    8   8  22    39   68  −29    32 ↓ 1-year run
20 Iturributa Racing Club   38    6   9  23    26   64  −38    27 ↓ 2-year run

CHAMPIONS
ITURRIBUTA UNITED
6th title

FAF Awards

At the traditional awards ceremony, held at Rumiatzi’s Kraitzaga Theatre once the season is concluded, the Futbol Astograthiko Federazioa presented the following awards, based on First Division performance. Local media consider these highly prestigious, and the definitive acknowledgement of the best in Astograthian football.

Player of the Season:
1.

Pristina Shine (EQS), CF – Iturributa United – 38 appearances, 33 goals
2.

Santiago Santiago (TAE), LB – Blue Mountain Range – 38 appearances
3.

Ferena Rauch (NPH), DM – Sporting Iturributa – 37 appearances, 1 goal

Young Player of the Season:
1.

Yonatoño de la Garza (FFD), LW, age 19 – Antiguoko FC – 33 appearances, 13 goals
2.

Ortze Ohet, RM, age 19 – Athletic Club Rumiatzi – 36 appearances, 2 goals
3.

Santikurtz Albar, CF, age 19 – Antiguoko FC – 34 appearances, 10 goals

Manager of the Season:
1.

Justin Vauxhall (BRE) – Iturributa United
2.

Xander McDrew (TAE) – Blue Mountain Range
3.

Cheney Bittencourt (NPH) – Sporting Iturributa

Golden Uri for Top Scorer:
33 –

Pristina Shine (EQS), CF – Iturributa United
21 –

Danica Marinkovic (NPH), CF – Royal Rumiatzi
19 –

Martin Blessed (EUR), CF – Royal Rumiatzi
19 –

Modevideo Carpi (QUR), CF – Ituraitz FC
19 –

Telá Potos (TIO), CF – Echegoyan FC

Elmsvikur Trophy for Goal of the Season:
1.

Mazuste Igerabide – East Railway (A) vs. Ibarbe Sport, MD 34, FT 1–2. Leading the attack, Igerabide dribbles the ball from midfield, faces down his marker, dummies past, and shoots into the net from a box and a half away.
2.

Robert Lucero (TKT) – Royal Ibarbe (H) vs. Athletic Club Rumiatzi, MD 7, FT 1–2. Oxarra Nabarrete, deep down the wing, lifts a cross to the near post. On the run, Lucero traps the ball with his chest between two defenders and fires a powerful shot while falling.
3.

Evangelino Pulido Castaneda (PAS) – Sporting Iturributa (H) vs. Bakartirla Buccaneers, MD 36, FT 1–0. Jeremiah Ruiz takes a free-kick for Sporting; Garikoitz Abaria fails to clear, the ball headed up rather than out. As it falls, Pulido Castaneda catches the ball on the volley and loops a shot into the far corner of the net.

Team of the Season:
GK –

Dieje Ibrelaná (FFD) – Urbizania Wanderers – 38 appearances
LB –

Santiago Santiago (TAE) – Blue Mountain Range – 38 appearances
CB –

Eyande Osamiz – Blue Mountain Range – 36 appearances
CB –

Irakusne Hecharri – Sporting Iturributa – 36 appearances, 1 goal
RB –

Zhu Aiguo (YZH) – Iturributa United – 33 appearances, 1 goal
DM –

Ferena Rauch (NPH) – Sporting Iturributa – 37 appearances, 1 goal
LM –

Fangti Pikolaugh (CMT) – Iturributa United – 35 appearances, 5 goals
RM –

Andrés Abrigo (VLD) – Urbizania Wanderers – 38 appearances, 12 goals
AM –

Julian Mann (EUR) – Urbizania Wanderers – 37 appearances, 5 goals
CF –

Danica Marinkovic (NPH) – Royal Rumiatzi – 35 appearances, 21 goals
CF –

Pristina Shine (EQS) – Iturributa United – 38 appearances, 33 goals

Name                        Club                    Pos   Nat.  App  Gls
ROBERTSON Ada               Antiguoko FC            GK    SCT   33    0
NAPOLEONI Panfilo           Antiguoko FC            DM    JUE   31    3
CHARDIN Tier                Antiguoko FC            DM    KOR   35    2
GARZA Yonatoño de la        Antiguoko FC            LM    FFD   33   13
CAILLEUX Thierry            Antiguoko FC            RM    HIN   35    5
BRANDON David               Antiguoko FC            DM    IGR    7    1
GUPTA Raj                   Antiguoko FC            LM    ETN   13    0
REYNE Yaël la               Antiguoko FC            RM    OAM   10    2
COALFIELD Johan             Astograth University    LB    BRE   33    0
MUNUZO Hissho               Astograth University    CB    HIN   32    3
SHIRONG Jin                 Astograth University    DM    YZH   35    3
NIFTERIK Damyan             Astograth University    CF    ESH   14    1
LYNCH Kara                  Athletic Club Olarria   CB    TLI   33    1
MERCADO Iohana              Athletic Club Olarria   RB    ASU   35    2
DOCHERTY Amber              Athletic Club Olarria   RM    KSK   31    5
DAVIES Declan               Athletic Club Olarria   GK    HVY    6    0
MCJOHNSOM Johnson           Athletic Club Olarria   CB    PFA   13    2
BLACKWOOD Neil              Athletic Club Olarria   RB    CBP    9    0
ASTRO Nacro                 Bakartirla Buccaneers   CB    PFA   34    2
CULLEN Ward                 Bakartirla Buccaneers   RB    NPH   32    2
RADOZEVIC Svetoslav         Bakartirla Buccaneers   DM    MYT   31    1
AZIZ Pia                    Bakartirla Buccaneers   AM    MRT   35    6
PALANI Tehmina              Bakartirla Buccaneers   CF    SRS   33   15
DESSOUBS-LE-FOUR Paolig     Bakartirla Buccaneers   LM    OAM   17    1
SANTIAGO Santiago           Blue Mountain Range     LB    TAE   38    0
COSHAN Daigo                Blue Mountain Range     CB    TAE   36    2
REED Danni                  Blue Mountain Range     RB    QOD   34    3
BREUNIG Benjamin            Blue Mountain Range     DM    SWR   34    1
HARRYSSON Robin             Blue Mountain Range     RM    GRF   34    2
MEE-KYONG Geun              Blue Mountain Range     DM    HIN    9    1
PRINCE Rosalia              Blue Mountain Range     DM    EFL    7    0
CARUSO Armando              Blue Mountain Range     CM    SVG    9    0
ABATANTUONO Jacky           Blue Mountain Range     CF    JUE   20    1
YONG Zhao                   East Railway            GK    YZH   33    0
CARTLIDGE James             East Railway            RB    MUR   34    0
OHASHIMA Marisa             East Railway            DM    HIN   34    2
DAMANI Sakia                East Railway            LM    CMT   35    9
SWISHER Jake                East Railway            AM    SFD   34    6
BARRETT Rachel              East Railway            LB    HAN   15    0
BLOODOFF Darian             East Railway            CF    TKT   18    1
KAOÑAHANI Adaxa             Echegoyan FC            CB    TXA   32    0
POTOS Telá                  Echegoyan FC            CF    TIO   37   19
WAHL Barto                  Echegoyan FC            GK    ZRH    9    0
THOMPSEN Rosenthorpe        Echegoyan FC            CM    CMT   12    0
DONALDSON Arnold            Gortz United            CB    KHD   30    0
MARVINSSON Valtter          Gortz United            DM    GRF   31    1
MARUSIC Borna               Gortz United            CM    MYT   33    2
MORGENSTERN Shiloh          Gortz United            LM    TAE   38   14
MARAJIS Kolejes             Gortz United            RM    FFD   34    4
DASSAULT Adrian             Gortz United            CB    TKT    6    0
BAINS Eddie                 Gortz United            CF    SCT   21    2
ARMIDA Fernando             Ituraitz FC             GK    STB   32    0
SLOAH Mike                  Ituraitz FC             CB    SNL   32    0
KOVACEVIC Amar              Ituraitz FC             CB    MYT   32    2
HOYO Tiburcio               Ituraitz FC             RB    FFD   35    2
SHINRA Puristina            Ituraitz FC             CM    HIN   30    2
CELUSTKA Elsebeth           Ituraitz FC             CM    NPH   34    1
HLYNURSBUR Ari              Ituraitz FC             RM    GRF   37    7
CARPI Modevideo             Ituraitz FC             CF    QUR   36   19
CORDER Phoebe               Ituraitz FC             GK    BRE   13    0
DOWLING-DOCKSON Meir        Ituraitz FC             CF    EFL   13    2
JÍÍ Mâánéràtö               Ituraitz FC             CF    FFD   15    0
KINDVANEVAN Augustijn       Ituraitz Victory        GK    TSA   32    0
GAROFANO Mastino            Ituraitz Victory        LB    SVG   30    1
SCHAEFER Eleanor            Ituraitz Victory        RB    NPH   34    2
MONTREAUX Habette           Ituraitz Victory        LM    HIN   31    6
NUN Intov-Gelan             Ituraitz Victory        DM    QUS   14    0
PLUMB Sulpizio              Ituraitz Victory        CF    MRT   19    2
MENAT Gareth                Iturributa Racing Club  DM    NPH   36    2
LYLAC Basil                 Iturributa Racing Club  CM    NPH   34    2
HUTCHINS Dana               Iturributa United       GK    EFL   37    0
DOHERTY Isaac               Iturributa United       LB    EUR   32    2
TOIVANEN Janne              Iturributa United       CB    SVJ   33    1
RIVERS Alex                 Iturributa United       CB    KRY   34    0
AIGUO Zhu                   Iturributa United       RB    YZH   33    1
MACDONALD Connor            Iturributa United       DM    KSK   34    1
PIKOLAUGH Fangti            Iturributa United       LM    CMT   35    5
BRIGHT Lukas                Iturributa United       CF    BRE   34   10
SHINE Pristina              Iturributa United       CF    EQS   38   33
AGUIAR Victor               Iturributa United       GK    CBZ    5    0
JAGIDAR Palla               Iturributa United       LB    SRS   10    0
DARROZE Arnesa              Iturributa United       DM    NPH   11    0
ERDEI Ema                   Royal Ibarbe            LB    PAS   31    0
ZINKOVSKY Kamil             Royal Ibarbe            CB    MYT   30    1
UBBISDÓTTIR Malin           Royal Ibarbe            CB    GRF   35    1
PYRITE Younis               Royal Ibarbe            DM    ISK   34    3
ARENTSSON Guðmann           Royal Ibarbe            DM    GRF   34    1
LERUOSE Osfral              Royal Ibarbe            LM    TIO   32    2
NIFORRO Lumugue             Royal Ibarbe            AM    TIO   31    3
LUCERO Robert               Royal Ibarbe            CF    TKT   35   17
BIRKAN Zeynel Abidin        Royal Ibarbe            LB    TMR   11    0
EXAIMAHE Huatxehai          Royal Ibarbe            CB    TXA    7    0
VILLAVERDE Chuy             Royal Ibarbe            RB    FFD   19    0
FAUMONT Silbane de          Royal Ibarbe            RM    MRT   14    1
MATHENY Konrad              Royal Rumiatzi          GK    NPH   35    0
EXIHOSAHAR Loxjilo          Royal Rumiatzi          LB    FFD   35    0
IMABAYAMA Iñaki             Royal Rumiatzi          CB    HIN   36    1
SAINT-PIERRE Victoire De    Royal Rumiatzi          RB    CMT   35    1
REASON Guy                  Royal Rumiatzi          CM    FFD   36    1
MOORE Nolan                 Royal Rumiatzi          RM    TKT   34    3
MARINKOVIC Danica           Royal Rumiatzi          CF    NPH   35   21
BLESSED Martin              Royal Rumiatzi          CF    EUR   38   19
VUJOVIC Slobodan            Royal Rumiatzi          RB    MYT   10    1
KARAISKAKIS Petrarch        Royal Rumiatzi          LM    NPH   11    1
ROMINEVSKIY Davidov         Royal Rumiatzi          CM    TWI    9    0
SHAVER Renee                Royal Rumiatzi          RM    CDG    6    0
LINGAARD Pernille           Sporting Arkamo         RB    SVJ   32    0
PINNOCK Ombre               Sporting Arkamo         CM    BRE   12    0
KABERLE Lino                Sporting Iturributa     GK    STL   35    0
COMPTON Minerva             Sporting Iturributa     LB    KOR   32    2
KABERLE Thomas              Sporting Iturributa     CB    STL   32    2
RAUCH Ferena                Sporting Iturributa     DM    NPH   37    1
HENSSER Arysa               Sporting Iturributa     DM    NPH   32    2
KIICHI Ohashi               Sporting Iturributa     LM    SQR   35    7
RUIZ Jeremiah               Sporting Iturributa     RM    ETN   32    5
CASTANEDA Evangelino Pulido Sporting Iturributa     CF    PAS   33   16
ROBERTS Trent               Sporting Iturributa     LM    EUR   14    0
BRUNO Marco                 Sporting Iturributa     CF    QAD   17    0
IBRELANÁ Dieje              Urbizania Wanderers     GK    FFD   38    0
PALOMER Roman               Urbizania Wanderers     LB    SVG   30    1
DONAT Martí                 Urbizania Wanderers     CB    TEQ   34    1
HIRAHITO Yoshimi            Urbizania Wanderers     DM    TAE   34    2
DURMISI Alexis              Urbizania Wanderers     LM    VLD   32    6
ABRIGO Andrés               Urbizania Wanderers     RM    VLD   38   12
MANN Julian                 Urbizania Wanderers     AM    EUR   37    5
IRVING Brandon              Urbizania Wanderers     CF    SNL   35   14

Second Division

Royal Arexa were in fine form to win the Second Division in convincing fashion, making their long-awaited return to the top flight – though hopefully not their status as a yo-yo club. Their lead was constantly hounded by Sporting Ibarguren and Urizaharra FC, who finished second and third; the former, who are one-time Royal Cup winners despite never before reaching the top flight, will finally play in the First Division from next season. Urizaharra, despite being favourites for the promotion playoffs, are left with the consolation prize of an IFCF appearance through the LBCT. In the playoff semifinals they were beaten by 6th-placed Erribe United, who went on to get a 1–0 win over Old City Central in the final. Had Old City won, the Arexan Derby would have taken place in the First Division next season – a dangerously high density of local derbies in the top flight.

Taldo Biharran            Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Royal Arexa             46   26  11   9    84   58  +26    89 ↑ Champions / Liga B Champions Trophy – return after 7 years, 7th SBCC/LBCT appearance
 2 Sporting Ibarguren      46   24   9  13    71   47  +24    81 ↑ Liga B Champions Trophy – will début in the First Division, 2nd SBCC/LBCT appearance
 3 Urizaharra FC           46   23  11  12    81   55  +26    80 Liga B Champions Trophy – 7th SBCC/LBCT appearance
 4 Miners FC               46   24   7  15    55   37  +18    79
 5 Old City Central        46   21  15  10    71   49  +22    78
 6 Erribe United           46   23   8  15    67   54  +13    77 ↑ return after 2 years
 7 Urbitzo FC              46   22   8  16    59   41  +18    74
 8 Ximun Orieta FC         46   21  10  15    65   51  +14    73
 9 Oyardo FC               46   19  15  12    65   53  +12    72
10 Garitzeta Racing Club   46   21   9  16    62   46  +16    72
11 Ezkutia MFC             46   19  11  16    59   55   +4    68
12 Gesterlake FC           46   18  10  18    65   68   −3    64
13 Eagles FC               46   18  10  18    51   58   −7    64
14 Uidio Mariners          46   17  13  16    51   61  −10    64
15 Rumiatzi 529            46   16  13  17    59   59    0    61
16 Cafundelense            46   16  11  19    57   60   −3    59
17 Nabarrieta FC           46   14  12  20    49   59  −10    54
18 Uzio Blackstar          46   14  10  22    45   61  −16    52
19 Basabe Old Boys         46   13  10  23    53   65  −12    49
20 Bizkarra Castle         46   10  16  20    39   64  −25    46
21 Army United             46   11  12  23    47   74  −27    45 ↓ 7-year run out of Second Division B
22 Lermendia FC            46   12   9  25    52   78  −26    45 ↓ 11-year run
23 Dockyard Oaks           46   11  10  25    39   62  −23    43 ↓ 16-year run
24 Ariznabarra Castle      46    8  12  26    40   71  −31    36 ↓ 1-year run

Promotion Playoffs

Semifinals
Erribe United 1–1 Urizaharra FC
Old City Central 0–0 Miners FC

Urizaharra FC 1–2 Erribe United (2–3 agg.)
Miners FC 0–3 Old City Central (0–3 agg.)

Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Erribe United 1–0 Old City Central

Second Division B

A good year for Garitzeta FC, who stormed to the third tier championship title, but a poor year for the rest of the East Group, having lost the other two promotion spots against the West. San Markez, who won the West Group, will be hoping to better cement themselves in the second tier this time around, while the unfancied Fort Saint Oskia has earned promotion to the Second Division for the very first time. The headline news, however, is Tzaramaga Rovers’ defeat of Royal Association, who were heavy favourites to win the competition after last season’s surprise relegation; they’ll have to languish in the third tier at least one more year. Possibly many more, as South Factory could tell you.

East Group

Taldo Biharran B East     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Garitzeta FC            46   26  11   9    74   40  +34    89 ↑ return after 2 years
 2 Royal Association       46   23  11  12    60   34  +26    80
 3 Mars Athletic           46   22   8  16    62   48  +14    74
 4 Baker's Eleven          46   22   8  16    73   58  +15    74
 5 Iratza Fury             46   22   7  17    61   54   +7    73
 6 Chabeitzio FC           46   20  11  15    51   48   +3    71
 7 Uertza Gymnastic        46   20  10  16    60   48  +12    70
 8 Galarra Youth           46   20   7  19    54   53   +1    67
 9 Arbetsana Crossing      46   19  10  17    52   50   +2    67
10 Ezkalmendia FC          46   19   9  18    55   55    0    66
11 United of Langaraitz    46   18  11  17    58   58    0    65
12 Basabe Youth            46   19   8  19    55   52   +3    65
13 Landaluz Casuals        46   19   8  19    53   57   −4    65
14 Berlasko FC             46   18  10  18    52   57   −5    64
15 Freedom FC              46   17  10  19    51   57   −6    61
16 Akialden Marauders      46   16  12  18    53   50   +3    60
17 Ituyo 600               46   18   5  23    48   63  −15    59
18 Izarloka FC             46   16   9  21    44   60  −16    57
19 Bipagoun Town           46   15  11  20    50   60  −10    56
20 Biazterri FC            46   15  11  20    43   50   −7    56
21 Landako Wanderers       46   16   7  23    60   74  −14    55 ↓ 5-year run in the Football League
22 Sporting Uanka          46   13  16  17    48   47   +1    55 ↓ 6-year run
23 Iturricho FC            46   15  10  21    44   54  −10    55 ↓ 4-year run
24 Elgandaba County        46    7  14  25    37   71  −34    35 ↓ 1-year run

West Group

Taldo Biharran B West     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 San Markez              46   24   7  15    60   41  +19    79 ↑ return after 4 years
 2 Fort Saint Oskia        46   20  14  12    50   41   +9    74 ↑ will début in the Second Division
 3 Tzaramaga Rovers        46   20  13  13    57   45  +12    73 ↑ return after 1 year
 4 Gortz Academy           46   21   9  16    65   54  +11    72
 5 Ermarretza United       46   21   9  16    62   56   +6    72
 6 South Factory           46   20  11  15    68   47  +21    71
 7 Ibarbe Youth            46   20  11  15    61   50  +11    71
 8 Progress Athletic       46   19  12  15    42   39   +3    69
 9 Ichapeldun Mariners     46   19  12  15    60   48  +12    69
10 Amanka FC               46   16  17  13    53   52   +1    65
11 Satzueta Alliance       46   17  13  16    48   50   −2    64
12 Chopbiren FC            46   17  12  17    51   50   +1    63
13 FAS SC                  46   16  14  16    52   48   +4    62
14 Goyardeliz United       46   18   8  20    39   54  −15    62
15 FK Aliantza             46   13  20  13    55   56   −1    59
16 Muitago Union           46   16  11  19    45   51   −6    59
17 Akarregi Leisure        46   15  12  19    54   60   −6    57
18 Orontzo United          46   15  12  19    44   64  −20    57
19 Phoenix Athletic        46   13  17  16    47   48   −1    56
20 Leizaran River          46   14  14  18    55   60   −5    56
21 Dockside Casuals        46   11  18  17    39   49  −10    51 ↓ 2-year run in the Football League
22 Maniarrieta Workers'    46   12  14  20    49   62  −13    50 ↓ 2-year run
23 Saint Eulari            46   13  11  22    36   46  −10    50 ↓ 1-year run
24 Sporting Alliance       46   12   9  25    41   62  −21    45 ↓ 1-year run

Championship Final – East vs. West
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Garitzeta FC 3–1 San Markez

Promotion Playoffs
Tzaramaga Rovers 2–0 Royal Association
Fort Saint Oskia 1–0 Mars Athletic

Royal Association 3–3 Tzaramaga Rovers (3–5 agg.)
Mars Athletic 0–1 Fort Saint Oskia (0–2 agg.)

Astograthian Development League – Honours Division

The Astograthian Development League, a joint FAF-Ministry of Sport venture, pits U21 teams across the nation in round-robin action.

Honours Division          Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Urbizania Wanderers     30   22   3   5    58   27  +31    69 Champions / Rising Stars Cup – 5th YC/RSC appearance
 2 Iturributa United       30   18   2  10    46   30  +16    56
 3 Royal Rumiatzi          30   14   9   7    53   30  +23    51
 4 Ituraitz FC             30   13  10   7    48   35  +13    49
 5 Astograth University    30   13   8   9    24   18   +6    47
 6 Blue Mountain Range     30   12  10   8    21   14   +7    46
 7 Sporting Iturributa     30   12  10   8    26   24   +2    46
 8 Oyardo FC               30    9  14   7    32   33   −1    41
 9 Bakartirla Buccaneers   30   11   7  12    27   32   −5    40
10 Royal Association       30   10   8  12    28   39  −11    38
11 Royal Ibarbe            30    8   7  15    22   34  −12    31
12 Ituraitz Victory        30    8   7  15    25   37  −12    31
13 Echegoyan FC            30    8   6  16    33   49  −16    30
14 Garitzeta FC            30    7   9  14    21   36  −15    30
15 Miners FC               30    6   9  15    19   32  −13    27 ↓
16 Basabe Old Boys         30    6   7  17    23   36  −13    25 ↓

Promoted: Gesterlake FC, South Factory

The Royal Cup

One-legged ties. First and Second Division teams enter at the Round of 64, and the former are seeded for that and the following round. If clubs have a two-tier difference or greater, the lower-tier team will play at home.

Round of 64 (select matches)
Satzueta Alliance 1–4 Royal Rumiatzi
Eagles FC 1–6 Sporting Arkamo
Fort Saint Oskia 0–2 Athletic Club Olarria
Arbetsana Crossing 0–1 Echegoyan FC
Basabe Old Boys 4–2 Bakartirla Buccaneers
East Railway 0–0 Rumiatzi 529 (0–0 AET) (4–2 pen.)
FAS SC 2–0 Sporting Olarria
Akarregi Leisure 0–0 Sporting Iturributa (0–0 AET) (1–4 pen.)
Iturricho FC 0–2 Ituraitz FC
Athletic Club Rumiatzi 1–2 Uidio Mariners
Antiguoko FC 3–0 Urizaharra FC
Erribe United 3–1 Iturributa United
Akialden Marauders 0–2 Blue Mountain Range
Goyardeliz United 0–3 Gortz United
Oyardo FC 1–2 Urbizania Wanderers
Gesterlake FC 1–2 Ibarbe Sport
Royal Arexa 1–0 Ituraitz Victory
Astograth University 0–1 Ximun Orieta FC
Ibarbe Youth 1–0 Royal Ibarbe
Uertza Gymnastic 1–1 Iturributa Racing Club (2–1 AET)

It is not a Royal Cup without some early upsets, and there was no lack of them this time around. Third-tier FAS of Ezkutia beat an overconfident Sporting Olarria 2–0, Iturributa United committed the classic mistake of fielding their C team, losing 3–1 to second-tier Erribe United, and Iturributa Racing Club were walloped in extra time by a daring Uertza Gymnastic, who employed their home advantage to great effect. With one more exception, the remaining giant-killings were between teams closer in talent than would appear: the just-relegated Basabe Old Boys took out Bakartirla Buccaneers in an exciting 4–2 at New Beltzura Stadium; Uidio Mariners got the away win over a just-promoted Athletic Rumiatzi; Ximun Orieta surprised a dispirited Astograth University; and Royal Arexa, who went on to win the Second Division, trumped an Ituraitz Victory that, 12 matches into the season, had yet to notch a win. The one further exception was the derby between Ibarbe Youth and Royal Ibarbe, an uncommon meeting due to their many years in different tiers. Youth’s Denis Gorrachategi wrote his name into the local history books by firing off the sole goal in a shock 1–0 win that will not soon be forgotten in Ibarbe. Elsewhere, Sporting Arkamo crushed Eagles FC with six different goalscorers and a lacklustre Sporting Iturributa ended up needing penalties to win at third-tier Akarregi Leisure.

Round of 32
Sporting Iturributa 0–0 Dockyard Oaks (0–0 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Ituraitz FC 4–1 Ariznabarra Castle
Echegoyan FC 0–1 Urbitzo FC
Royal Arexa 1–0 East Railway
Royal Rumiatzi 2–3 Old City Central
Athletic Club Olarria 1–1 Ximun Orieta FC (1–1 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Urbizania Wanderers 1–0 Basabe Old Boys
Ibarbe Sport 1–0 Uzio Blackstar
Baker's Eleven 1–2 Sporting Arkamo
Army United 2–5 Antiguoko FC
Erribe United 0–0 Blue Mountain Range (0–1 AET)
Gortz United 0–0 Lermendia FC (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Bizkarra Castle 1–1 Uidio Mariners (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Nabarrieta FC 1–0 Ibarbe Youth
FAS SC 0–0 Garitzeta Racing Club (0–1 AET)
Royal Association 2–2 Uertza Gymnastic (3–2 AET)

The Round of 32 weeded out three more strong candidates for the cup: Royal Rumiatzi, Athletic Club Olarria, and Gortz United, all knocked out at home by sides from the Second Division. The first, going through a nightmare league season, were embarrassed 3–2 by Old City Central. The second, despite Olentzaro Anseteori’s best efforts, fell on penalties to Ximun Orieta FC. The third were downed, on penalties, by Lermendia FC after a scoreless draw. Sporting Iturributa again failed to score in 120 minutes and needed penalties to get past Dockyard Oaks; Urbitzo FC compounded Echegoyan’s league misery; Royal Arexa continued their strong run by beating East Railway; Danni Reed scored in extra-time to put Blue Mountain Range over Erribe United; Ari Hlynursbur capped off Ituraitz FC’s 4–1 beating of Ariznabarra Castle; and Alexis Durmisi made all the difference for Urbizania Wanderers against Basabe Old Boys.

Round of 16
Bizkarra Castle 1–0 Ituraitz FC
Antiguoko FC 1–0 Ximun Orieta FC
Nabarrieta FC 1–3 Ibarbe Sport
Royal Arexa 2–2 Blue Mountain Range (2–2 AET) (6–7 pen.)
Sporting Iturributa 1–0 Urbitzo FC
Lermendia FC 1–0 Old City Central
Urbizania Wanderers 2–0 Sporting Arkamo

Half of this year’s Round of 16 was made up of teams below the top flight – unusual to see, given the seeding system. In a repeat of their clash in the last Royal Cup, also in the Round of 16, Royal Association again beat Garitzeta Racing to advance into the final eight and again demonstrate that, though they may have fallen to the third tier, they remain a fiercely competitive, traditional side. Sporting Iturributa finally scored in this edition of the cup, Marco Bruno securing their 1–0 win over Urbitzo. Zufiarre Izurieta gave Antiguoko the win over Ximun Orieta; Ibarbe Sport were never troubled by Nabarrieta in their 3–1 victory; and Brandon Irving scored the opener in Urbizania Wanderers’ convincing win over Sporting Arkamo. In a clash of second-tier teams, Lermendia knocked out Old City Central, while the low-key Bizkarra Castle sunk Ituraitz FC’s hopes of a trophy. Royal Arexa and Blue Mountain Range played out the best match of the round: a thrilling 2–2 draw at Goyaingerua Stadium, all the way to penalties; in the shootout, it was goalkeeper Leheren Burunzangaray’s heroics that won the tie for BMR.

Quarterfinals
Urbizania Wanderers 2–0 Sporting Iturributa
Lermendia FC 2–2 Antiguoko FC (2–2 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Ibarbe Sport 1–0 Bizkarra Castle
Royal Association 0–2 Blue Mountain Range

The luck of the draw paired the two strongest remaining teams at the quarterfinal stage: Urbizania Wanderers’ Balendin Betonazko and Martí Donat thumped Sporting Iturributa and stamped their tickets to the semifinal. The other top-flight quarterfinalists were all drawn against lower-league opposition, an accidental seeding: Ibarbe Sport’s Gardotza Orderiz gave them the 1–0 against Bizkarra Castle, while BMR’s Legazpi and Iturria finally ended Royal Association’s run. Antiguoko, visiting Lermendia, had the toughest time, but pulled through on penalties after Lermendia skied two of their shots.

Semifinals
Blue Mountain Range 1–1 Antiguoko FC (1–1 AET) (4–2 pen.)
Urbizania Wanderers 1–0 Ibarbe Sport

Of the four semifinalists, three had never reached a Royal Cup final; regardless of the draw, there would be a new finalist. Ibarbe Sport proved a tougher nut to crack than Urbizania Wanderers expected: a 77th minute goal from Brandon Irving was the only way to separate the two. At Blue Mountain Range’s Ximun Orieta Sporting Ground, the tie was similarly hard-fought: in a match of few chances, Daigo Coshan had good reason to think he’d won it for BMR after scoring in the 71st minute, only for Santikurtz Albar to smash in the equaliser two minutes later. Both teams stalked each other, probing for weakness through the remainder of normal time and through an extra half-hour. Having won last round’s shootout against Lermendia, Antiguoko were confident from 12 yards. Overconfident, as it turns out – Idarreta shot wide of the post and Napoleoni’s shot caught by Burunzangaray, while BMR nailed all of theirs. The new finalist would be Blue Mountain Range, against Urbizania Wanderers – the club with the second most Royal Cups to their name.

The Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi

Blue Mountain Range’s trophy cabinets overflow with lesser silverware: dozens of editions of the Blue Mountain Challenge Series, countless youth tournaments, invitationals, friendlies, a replica of the Consular Cup. Pennants claimed from every team in Astograth. But amid all that, none of the country’s premier national competitions: the First Division and the Royal Cup. For a club this traditional, it stings; they are, after all, founding members of the First Division, with the fourth-most matches played in that competition. Never at the top or even near it, but always in the league. They rank 8th in the league’s all-time table, above league champions like Astograth University and Gortz United.

Urbizania Wanderers’ trophy cabinets, on the other hand, are packed with 8 league titles, 7 Royal Cups, and the biggest fish of them all: Champions’ Cup 43, the gold star above their badge that demands respect. Their run to this final had seen them face and eliminate considerable opposition: Oyardo FC, rivals from bygone days; a resurgent Sporting Arkamo; the heavyweights, Sporting Iturributa; and a high-flying, semifinalist Ibarbe Sport. Blue Mountain Range, by contrast, were favoured by the draw: before beating Antiguoko in the semifinal – on penalties – they faced only lower-tier opposition, and did not have the easiest time against them. Any other year, given this context and BMR’s congenital inability to win national trophies, Urbizania Wanderers winning the final would be a foregone conclusion.

But this season, for the first time in almost 50 years, Blue Mountain Range finished above Urbizania Wanderers in the First Division. When BMR took to the pitch of Grand Duke’s Stadium – also a first – a strange sensation swept the nation: against Wanderers they looked like equals, not underdogs. For captain Diego Coshan, former captain of the Taeshani national team, there was no finer way to end his career.

Eriz Bakaikoa’s Wanderers played their game, controlling possession and the midfield. Xander McDrew’s played their own game, and let them. Deep in their own half, with a back line of five defenders commanded by the masterful Daigo Coshan, BMR were impregnable. They rarely ventured an attack, because they knew it wasn’t necessary. Wanderers would tire themselves out, banging their fists against a brick wall, and they’d become vulnerable – that was the principle of ichita, the club’s century-old philosophy derived from Rejistanian karela. Wanderers were well-acquainted with it, however, and disciplined enough to retain shape throughout; their two league matches against BMR had ended 1–0 for a reason. That reason, thought BMR, was Wanderers playmaker Julian Mann, who was currently watching the final from the bench due to still being in recovery from an injury. The match remained in stalemate until half-time. Then full-time.

For the fourth time this Royal Cup, Blue Mountain Range went to extra-time. It paid off, too: 7 minutes in, a long ball from BMR found winger Robin Harrysson, who took it to the corner flag and bounced off Martí Donat to win a set-piece. The corner-kick, taken by Mayorga Muniakas, found the head of spindly striker Anaia Olabegogaeskoecha, and was buried past keeper Dieje Ibrelaná. BMR and their fans erupted: now they just needed to hold out, their speciality.

Wanderers panicked. In that panic, Eriz Bakaikoa took a risk and subbed on the partly injured Julian Mann. It proved true that there was no one else who could break down Blue Mountain Range’s iron defence: Mann played the inch-perfect pass, a little chipped cross right between Iturria and Alzuagaray, that allowed Brandon Irving to connect and smash a header into the net. 1–1, minute 120+1, pandemonium let loose in Grand Duke’s.

There would be penalties. Blue Mountain Range won the coin-toss; some say that’s half the battle, but with BMR’s execution it was perhaps not even necessary. Having practiced in earlier rounds, and clearly at the training grounds too, BMR were clinical: Olabegogaeskoecha, Muniakas, captain Coshan, and Inoki Legisamon all placed their shots beyond what Ibrelaná could stop. For Wanderers, Mann scored the first, then Gabon Saralegi’s medium-height shot was parried by Leheren Burunzangaray. Yoshimi Hirahito and Brandon Irving went on to score the next two, but then it was BMR’s Robin Harrysson who had the chance to make it 5–3 and end the shootout.

Harrysson had played for Urbizania Wanderers for four years, until this season. He’d been discarded by the Greens to make space for Andrés Abrigo, their brilliant new right winger who was waiting to shoot his own penalty, Wanderers’ fifth.

The Græntfjaller, also from a land of colourful mountains, took a moment to contemplate the throngs of sky-blue fans in the stands of Grand Duke’s. Then he branded his face into every BMR memory reel, from here to eternity.

Blue Mountain Range 0–0 Urbizania Wanderers (1–1 AET) (5–3 pen.)

CHAMPIONS
BLUE MOUNTAIN RANGE
1st title

Astograth (ASG) qualifiers
Champions League: Iturributa United, Sporting Iturributa
Challengers Cup: Blue Mountain Range, Urbizania Wanderers, Athletic Club Olarria
Liga B Champions Trophy: Royal Arexa, Sporting Ibarguren, Urizaharra FC
Rising Stars Cup: Urbizania Wanderers
Cup Winners’ Cup: Blue Mountain Range

Copa de Campeones: Iturributa United

Astograth (ASG) final site bids

Cup Winners’ Cup: Grand Duke’s Stadium, Rumiatzi (90,000)
Located on the eastern side of the capital, Grand Duke’s Stadium is the home of Astograthian sport. The largest stadium in the country, in association football it serves as the home ground of the Astograthian national team and annually hosts the finals of the Royal Cup, the Second Division promotion playoffs, and the Second Division B championship. Grand Duke’s Stadium features state-of-the-art facilities, full roofing over all seats, and retractable seating mounted over its blue-tinted athletics track. The ground has previously hosted the final of World Cup 62, in which The Holy Empire defeated Bears Armed 3–0; the final of the 8th Copa Rushmori, in which Polar Islandstates beat Western Cuba 2–0; the final of the 45th UICA Champions’ Cup, in which Turoki Tide defeated Raynor City United 1–0; and the finals of two Rushmori Copas de Campeones, including Liria Prizren of Mytanija’s 3–2 victory over Astograthian side Ituraitz FC.

Copa de Campeones: Old City Stadium, Iturributa (72,000)
Located in the ‘Old City’ area of Iturributa, Old City Stadium is one of Astograth’s most legendary venues. Grand Duke’s Stadium may have the status, Ximun Orieta and the Ituraitz Sporting Ground may have the years, but Old City has the romance. Established more than 160 years ago and almost completely rebuilt several times over, the ground is jointly owned by rival clubs Iturributa United and Sporting Iturributa, who at least twice a year play out the biggest derby in the Astograthian First Division. Its pitch has seen countless trophies won and lost, and often been graced by some of the biggest stars in world football – especially when the two Iturributas competed in the upper echelons of UICA competition. When the Iturributa national football team was active, between World Cups 60 and 66, Old City Stadium also acted as its home venue. The stadium’s structure is not fancy – a steep-sided concrete bowl – but its innards have been recently renovated to the highest of IFCF standards. Internationally, Old City Stadium has hosted the final of the 9th IFCF Challengers Cup, in which Raynor City United beat Spartangrad 3–1; the final of the 18th Cup Winners’ Cup, which Fontvielle Impact won 2–1 in extra time against East Franz Athletic; three prior finals of the Copa de Campeones, including Iturributa United’s 0–1 loss to FC1. Surtsey Island Gulls; and multiple matches at two Copas Rushmori and the 48th Baptism of Fire.

by **Astograth** » Sat Jun 11, 2022 7:48 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 691 Preview – Part 1 (The Contenders)

Transfers

- Iban Bachiondo, who was last at Echegoyan FC, retired from football aged 68
- Balendin Sorrekieta left Bakartirla Buccaneers
- Haitz Maistegi signed for Bakartirla Buccaneers
- Ilazki Altzibararechuluaga left Royal Ibarbe
- Churio Senosian signed for Royal Ibarbe from Sporting Olarria
- Frantz Ormache signed for Sporting Olarria
- Jerome Jaffacake-Phillips (KRY) left Royal Rumiatzi
- Obeko Mundutegi signed for Royal Rumiatzi from East Railway
- Ilazki Altzibararechuluaga signed for East Railway

- Alexis Ardouin (VLD - CF) signed for Iturributa United from Fontvielle Impact (VLD) for Đ6.31 M
- Abarrotz Zumalakarregi (AM) signed for Sporting Iturributa from Newrook City (NPH) for Đ2.63 M
- Eloise Markus (NPH - RB) signed for Urbizania Wanderers from AFC Corvistone (NPH) for Đ1.58 M
- Kherles Ensaunden (KOR - LM) signed for Royal Rumiatzi from Huthwich Et Iduloren FC (KOR) for Đ1.05 M
- Patrick Fitz (BRE - CB) signed for Royal Rumiatzi from Aleiusia Capital (ZRH) for Đ950 k
- Boza Despotovic (MYT - DM) signed for Iturributa United from Litala '93 (MYT) for Đ790 k
- Devlyn Harris (QUE - LB) signed for Sporting Iturributa from The Carleton School (QUE) for Đ680 k
- Aristide Quickley (QAD - CB) signed for Blue Mountain Range from National Academy (QAD) for Đ630 k
- Nwdawd yTismewch (KOR - RB) signed for Gortz United from Katashi-Kanatsu (KOR) for Đ530 k
- Ivor Esteban (GTK - CM) signed for Sporting Arkamo from Päiväunelijoita KUY (GTK) for Đ420 k
- Rez Bala (PAS - RB) signed for Antiguoko FC from Targas United (PAS) for Đ260 k
- Kuter (DAI - GK) signed for Gortz United from 1830 Cathair (AUD) in a player-swap deal

- Nolan Moore (TKT - RM) signed for Parakleion Firebirds FC (TKT) from Royal Rumiatzi for Đ1.16 M
- Unax Goyenola (GK) signed for 1830 Cathair (AUD) from Gortz United for Đ1.05 M
- Slobodan Vujovic (MYT - RB) signed for 1896 Ebor (MYT) from Royal Rumiatzi for Đ1.05 M
- Iñaki Imabayama (HIN - CB) signed for Baptists (SFD) from Royal Rumiatzi for Đ1.05 M
- Yokin Erdokiain (CF) signed for AC Izotz Zubia (AUD) from Urbizania Wanderers for Đ1.05 M
- Ageio Osinde (RB) signed for Jaglan Royals (SRS) from Urbizania Wanderers for Đ1.05 M
- Lore Kartery (CM) signed for Myana (CMT) from Athletic Club Olarria as a free agent
- Yanpier Bordenabe (RB) signed for Old Boys Club (EUR) from Urbizania Wanderers as a free agent

- Arano Ilaria (GK) signed for Antiguoko FC from Sporting Arkamo for Đ580 k
- Ilari Beola (CB) signed for Antiguoko FC from Ituraitz Victory for Đ350 k
- Paskal Layinde (LB) signed for Antiguoko FC from Athletic Club Olarria for Đ350 k
- Gareth Menat (DM) signed for Antiguoko FC from Iturributa Racing Club for Đ110 k
- Erruki Giyamondegi (CB) signed for Antiguoko FC from Ituraitz FC as a free agent
- Argider Eges (DM) signed for Antiguoko FC on loan from Royal Rumiatzi
- Lauaxeta Salayaran (CB) signed for Antiguoko FC on loan from Gortz United
- Pudes Urket (CB) signed for Antiguoko FC on loan from Royal Rumiatzi
- Gasteiz Yrisarri (LM) signed for Astograth University from Royal Rumiatzi for Đ420 k
- Adaxa Kaoñahani (TXA - CB) signed for Astograth University from Echegoyan FC for Đ370 k
- Isusko Keno (RB) signed for Astograth University from Echegoyan FC for Đ210 k
- Guðmann Arentsson (GRF - DM) signed for Astograth University from Royal Ibarbe for Đ160 k
- Gilamu Bengoechea (AM) signed for Astograth University from Sporting Iturributa for Đ80 k
- Berasko Korradi (CF) signed for Athletic Club Olarria from Royal Rumiatzi for Đ290 k
- Adon Aburto (CB) signed for Athletic Club Olarria from Antiguoko FC as a free agent
- Olaiz Baskary (GK) signed for Athletic Club Olarria from Royal Rumiatzi as a free agent
- Telá Potos (TIO - CF) signed for Athletic Club Olarria from Echegoyan FC as a free agent
- Munio Lanziego (LB) signed for Athletic Club Rumiatzi from Sporting Ibarguren for Đ160 k
- Eder Chouhy (CF) signed for Athletic Club Rumiatzi from Erribe United as a free agent
- Kusko Zalbo (GK) signed for Athletic Club Rumiatzi from Sporting Ibarguren as a free agent
- Diegoche Yauregizar (DM) signed for Bakartirla Buccaneers from Urbizania Wanderers for Đ420 k
- Birila Taiyade (CB) signed for Bakartirla Buccaneers from Royal Ibarbe for Đ260 k
- Rosenthorpe Thompsen (CMT - CM) signed for Bakartirla Buccaneers from Echegoyan FC as a free agent
- Iturri Barriola (CF) signed for Bakartirla Buccaneers on loan from Iturributa United
- Larendi Benyuria (LB) signed for Bakartirla Buccaneers on loan from Gortz United
- Arixo Gorostidi (RM) signed for Bakartirla Buccaneers on loan from Blue Mountain Range
- Andikona Urburu (CB) signed for Blue Mountain Range from Royal Rumiatzi for Đ680 k
- Aurre Sarasola (AM) signed for Blue Mountain Range from Astograth University for Đ260 k
- Lezaeta Zarakondegi (RM) signed for Blue Mountain Range from Ituraitz Victory as a free agent
- Edur Elizahalde (AM) signed for East Railway from Sporting Iturributa for Đ530 k
- Ayuko Mitsushima (GK) signed for East Railway from Athletic Club Olarria for Đ530 k
- Lizar Tafaya (RM) signed for East Railway from Miners FC for Đ130 k
- Connor Macdonald (KSK - DM) signed for East Railway from Iturributa United as a free agent
- Hustaz Urresti (CF) signed for East Railway on loan from Royal Ibarbe
- Chordon Unzalo (AM) signed for Echegoyan FC from Sporting Olarria for Đ280 k
- Ariturri Iralde (CB) signed for Echegoyan FC from Ibarbe Sport for Đ240 k
- Marchel Gazet (DM) signed for Echegoyan FC from Sporting Olarria for Đ230 k
- Galoer Barrinaga (LM) signed for Echegoyan FC from Sporting Ibarguren for Đ220 k
- Bardol Agirrezabalaga (LB) signed for Echegoyan FC from Ituraitz FC as a free agent
- Matin Galarke (RM) signed for Echegoyan FC from Athletic Club Olarria as a free agent
- Arabante Goykochea (CM) signed for Echegoyan FC from Royal Arexa as a free agent
- Urki Migeltorena (CF) signed for Echegoyan FC from Erribe United as a free agent
- Bidari Aberatain (CF) signed for Erribe United from Athletic Club Rumiatzi for Đ270 k
- Atzo Kampo (CF) signed for Erribe United from Bakartirla Buccaneers for Đ170 k
- Otsando Erramundeguy (CB) signed for Erribe United from Antiguoko FC as a free agent
- Cherran Goyeche (CB) signed for Erribe United from Ituraitz FC as a free agent
- Mayorga Muniakas (AM) signed for Erribe United from Blue Mountain Range as a free agent
- Chordon Ytuarte (CM) signed for Erribe United from Ituraitz Victory as a free agent
- Inautzi Loaiza (AM) signed for Erribe United on loan from Athletic Club Olarria
- Zernin Ezkaray (DM) signed for Garitzeta Racing Club from Sporting Olarria for Đ60 k
- Egun Echesar (LM) signed for Garitzeta Racing Club from Royal Arexa as a free agent
- Edorta Yuanola (CM) signed for Garitzeta Racing Club from Erribe United as a free agent
- Ekhi Iroz (CB) signed for Gesterlake FC from Erribe United as a free agent
- Zeru Olareaga (RB) signed for Gesterlake FC from Sporting Ibarguren as a free agent
- Marchelie Korera (RB) signed for Gortz United from Astograth University for Đ420 k
- Hitzeder Echegoyen (LM) returned to Gortz United from their loan at Echegoyan FC
- Bilinch Legizano (GK) signed for Ibarbe Sport from Ituraitz Victory as a free agent
- Erauso Teyitegi (CB) signed for Ibarbe Sport from Ituraitz FC as a free agent
- Yon Sarra (LM) signed for Ibarbe Sport on loan from Gortz United
- Ortze Ohets (RM) signed for Ituraitz FC from Athletic Club Rumiatzi for Đ630 k
- Ema Erdei (PAS - LB) signed for Ituraitz FC from Royal Ibarbe for Đ530 k
- Goren Elizabe (CB) signed for Ituraitz Victory from East Railway for Đ600 k
- Iyart Berrondo (CM) signed for Ituraitz Victory from Iturributa United as a free agent
- Gorri Elizondo (GK) signed for Ituraitz Victory from Royal Rumiatzi as a free agent
- Elatzar Lassa (CF) signed for Ituraitz Victory from Athletic Club Olarria as a free agent
- Urko Leaniz (RM) signed for Ituraitz Victory from Echegoyan FC as a free agent
- Baiardo Badostain (DM) signed for Iturributa United from Athletic Club Olarria for Đ660 k
- Iztal Otaola (LM) signed for Iturributa United from Ibarbe Sport for Đ530 k
- Garchot Nabarlatz (DM) signed for Miners FC from Sporting Ibarguren for Đ120 k
- Keop Benda (RM) signed for Miners FC from Astograth University as a free agent
- Inautzi Soyo (LM) signed for Miners FC from Astograth University as a free agent
- Arabante Echelous (CB) signed for Old City Central from Sporting Ibarguren as a free agent
- Auxkin Sabalete (LM) signed for Oyardo FC from Sporting Ibarguren for Đ70 k
- Errando Zufiaurre (RM) signed for Oyardo FC from East Railway for Đ60 k
- Emmanuel Biurrun (CB) signed for Oyardo FC from Royal Arexa for Đ50 k
- Barto Wahl (ZRH - GK) signed for Royal Arexa from Echegoyan FC for Đ370 k
- Arixo Leskerre (LM) signed for Royal Arexa from Iturributa United as a free agent
- Basil Lylac (CM) signed for Royal Arexa from Iturributa Racing Club as a free agent
- Santikurtz Beltranea (GK) signed for Royal Association from Royal Arexa as a free agent
- Guy Reason (FFD - CM) signed for Royal Ibarbe from Royal Rumiatzi for Đ1.05 M
- Tier Chardin (KOR - DM) signed for Royal Ibarbe from Antiguoko FC for Đ530 k
- Minerva Compton (KOR - LB) signed for Royal Ibarbe from Sporting Iturributa for Đ530 k
- Ixaka Echeberz (RB) signed for Royal Ibarbe from Gortz United for Đ390 k
- Hurko Barreneche (CF) signed for Royal Ibarbe from Ituraitz FC as a free agent
- Aratz Iarritu (LB) signed for Royal Ibarbe from Antiguoko FC as a free agent
- Otsando Zabay (CM) signed for Royal Rumiatzi from Athletic Club Rumiatzi for Đ2 M
- Martí Donat (TEQ - CB) signed for Royal Rumiatzi from Urbizania Wanderers for Đ1.32 M
- Teyo Menbieye (CF) signed for Royal Rumiatzi from Ituraitz Victory for Đ1.18 M
- Mogel Galdiano (CF) signed for Royal Rumiatzi from Sporting Arkamo for Đ1.05 M
- Ubelteso Lasota (RM) signed for Royal Rumiatzi from Sporting Arkamo for Đ680 k
- Nahia Elgeno (RB) signed for Royal Rumiatzi from Ituraitz FC for Đ430 k
- Gilamu Ouret (GK) signed for Royal Rumiatzi from Astograth University for Đ340 k
- Munia Alzuagaray (CB) returned to Royal Rumiatzi from their loan at Blue Mountain Range
- Jeremiah Ruiz (ETN - CM) signed for Sporting Arkamo from Sporting Iturributa for Đ1.05 M
- Zhao Yong (YZH - GK) signed for Sporting Arkamo from East Railway for Đ530 k
- Hitzeder Lizalde (CF) signed for Sporting Arkamo from Iturributa United for Đ240 k
- Olentzaro Anseoteori (CF) signed for Sporting Arkamo from Athletic Club Olarria as a free agent
- Fortun Izkerdo (RB) signed for Sporting Arkamo on loan from Urbizania Wanderers
- Goizeder Abadia (DM) signed for Sporting Ibarguren from Ituraitz Victory for Đ490 k
- Ibon Irisarre (DM) signed for Sporting Ibarguren from Urbizania Wanderers for Đ210 k
- Aitzol Adria (LM) signed for Sporting Ibarguren from Antiguoko FC as a free agent
- Orzaize Zubimendi (GK) signed for Sporting Ibarguren from Sporting Iturributa as a free agent
- Zeruko Eztanga (LB) signed for Sporting Ibarguren on loan from Blue Mountain Range
- Garaile Mendaro (GK) signed for Sporting Ibarguren on loan from Royal Ibarbe
- Apat Riz (LM) signed for Sporting Ibarguren on loan from Ituraitz FC
- Yasone Zubiate (CB) signed for Sporting Ibarguren on loan from Royal Rumiatzi
- Ari Hlynursbur (GRF - RM) signed for Sporting Iturributa from Ituraitz FC for Đ2.1 M
- Cheru Otermin (GK) signed for Sporting Iturributa from East Railway for Đ420 k
- Lumugue Niforro (TIO - AM) signed for Sporting Iturributa from Royal Ibarbe as a free agent
- Oxel Porkel (DM) signed for Sporting Olarria from East Railway for Đ160 k
- Apal Aizkorbi (CB) signed for Sporting Olarria from Royal Rumiatzi as a free agent
- Panfilo Napoleoni (JUE - DM) signed for Sporting Olarria from Antiguoko FC as a free agent
- Ombre Pinnock (CM) signed for Sporting Olarria from Sporting Arkamo as a free agent
- Kepa Saligo (AM) signed for Sporting Olarria from Erribe United as a free agent
- Pierres Lamikiz (LM) signed for Sporting Olarria on loan from Royal Rumiatzi
- Beila Montobio (DM) signed for Sporting Olarria on loan from Royal Ibarbe
- Gartzen Oyo (DM) signed for Urbitzo FC from Astograth University for Đ170 k
- Giammarco Egimendi (AM) signed for Urbitzo FC from Erribe United as a free agent
- Ezkerra Gerrikagoitia (CF) signed for Urbitzo FC from Royal Arexa as a free agent
- Kara Lynch (TLI - CB) signed for Urbizania Wanderers from Athletic Club Olarria for Đ1.05 M
- Ekain Dirube (DM) signed for Urbizania Wanderers from Iturributa United for Đ630 k
- Echachu Zorraindo (CF) signed for Urbizania Wanderers from Iturributa United as a free agent
- Ur Bustingorri (RM) signed for Urizaharra FC from Bakartirla Buccaneers for Đ140 k
- Oihenarte Ariztondo (CB) signed for Urizaharra FC from Sporting Olarria as a free agent
- Asier Labiaga (LB) signed for Ximun Orieta FC from Bakartirla Buccaneers as a free agent
- Eleazar Sarrasin (CB) signed for Ximun Orieta FC from Erribe United as a free agent
- Iruinea Yturri (CM) signed for Ximun Orieta FC from Erribe United as a free agent

- Sugoi Iniurrigarro (RB), who was last at Antiguoko FC, retired from football aged 36
- Ada Robertson (SCT - GK), who was last at Antiguoko FC, retired from football aged 35
- Edur Ustarroz (CF), who was last at Antiguoko FC, retired from football aged 35
- Gogo Abin (GK), who was last at Athletic Club Rumiatzi, retired from football aged 37
- Oskitz Anta (CM), who was last at Athletic Club Rumiatzi, retired from football aged 38
- Hustaz Yeso (CB), who was last at Athletic Club Rumiatzi, retired from football aged 32
- Bilinch Zumarraga (CF), who was last at Athletic Club Rumiatzi, retired from football aged 35
- Goi Urtea (CM), who was last at Bakartirla Buccaneers, retired from football aged 35
- Haitz Erriest (LB), who was last at Basabe Old Boys, retired from football aged 34
- Laurgain Garakoch (AM), who was last at Basabe Old Boys, retired from football aged 37
- Elatzar Kasuriaga (CB), who was last at Basabe Old Boys, retired from football aged 34
- Daigo Coshan (TAE - CB), who was last at Blue Mountain Range, retired from football aged 37
- Darian Bloodoff (TKT - CF), who was last at East Railway, retired from football aged 35
- Jake Swisher (SFD - AM), who was last at East Railway, retired from football aged 35
- Perucho Garabieta (GK), who was last at Echegoyan FC, retired from football aged 38
- Mederi Marien (AM), who was last at Echegoyan FC, retired from football aged 34
- Baladi Treko (DM), who was last at Echegoyan FC, retired from football aged 35
- Lehoi Uribeondo (LB), who was last at Echegoyan FC, retired from football aged 37
- Ilazki Lizalde (CB), who was last at Erribe United, retired from football aged 34
- Larendi Urgain (CF), who was last at Erribe United, retired from football aged 34
- Sasoin Yturrart (CF), who was last at Erribe United, retired from football aged 35
- Urtsua Kortabitarte (LB), who was last at Garitzeta FC, retired from football aged 34
- Polentzi Ayona (CB), who was last at Garitzeta Racing Club, retired from football aged 36
- Aimar Goyzeta (DM), who was last at Garitzeta Racing Club, retired from football aged 37
- Betadur Diliz (CB), who was last at Gesterlake FC, retired from football aged 35
- Lore Eskosteguy (DM), who was last at Gesterlake FC, retired from football aged 35
- Markel Kortayarena (LB), who was last at Gesterlake FC, retired from football aged 35
- Agosti Suaso (LM), who was last at Gesterlake FC, retired from football aged 35
- Umea Goyanes (RM), who was last at Gortz United, retired from football aged 33
- Balasi Lakar (RB), who was last at Gortz United, retired from football aged 37
- Gunutz Sagarribay (GK), who was last at Ibarbe Sport, retired from football aged 34
- Nabar Bordeta (GK), who was last at Ichapeldun Mariners, retired from football aged 35
- Chartiko Zamarbide (DM), who was last at Ichapeldun Mariners, retired from football aged 38
- Dana Hutchins (EFL - GK), who was last at Iturributa United, retired from football aged 37
- Karmel Izurreta (GK), who was last at Lermendia FC, retired from football aged 35
- Xanti Izpura (LM), who was last at Miners FC, retired from football aged 36
- Polentzi Bizagirre (AM), who was last at Old City Central, retired from football aged 36
- Yatsu Ustarroz (CF), who was last at Old City Central, retired from football aged 37
- Ion Iturri (AM), who was last at Oyardo FC, retired from football aged 36
- Dominix Renteria (RB), who was last at Oyardo FC, retired from football aged 35
- Distiratsu Zoloa (LM), who was last at Oyardo FC, retired from football aged 35
- Ortze Ibarrola (GK), who was last at Royal Arexa, retired from football aged 38
- Tartalo Martierena (AM), who was last at Royal Arexa, retired from football aged 37
- Lauaxeta Ainkiart (DM), who was last at Royal Association, retired from football aged 38
- Nuxila Estrada (CB), who was last at Royal Association, retired from football aged 36
- Distiratsu Maiz (CF), who was last at Royal Association, retired from football aged 38
- Zeynel Abidin Birkan (TMR - LB), who was last at Royal Ibarbe, retired from football aged 36
- Franchizko Biurrarena (DM), who was last at Royal Ibarbe, retired from football aged 36
- Chuy Villaverde (FFD - RB), who was last at Royal Ibarbe, retired from football aged 35
- Martin Blessed (EUR - CF), who was last at Royal Rumiatzi, retired from football aged 35
- Selatse Semberoiz (DM), who was last at South Factory, retired from football aged 37
- Fermin Chirizola (CB), who was last at Sporting Arkamo, retired from football aged 36
- Gomesano Sedero (CM), who was last at Sporting Arkamo, retired from football aged 37
- Yakobe Amatriain (GK), who was last at Sporting Ibarguren, retired from football aged 36
- Lordi Badosa (CB), who was last at Sporting Ibarguren, retired from football aged 33
- Gai Sarruate (DM), who was last at Sporting Ibarguren, retired from football aged 38
- Mogel Doyenard (CB), who was last at Sporting Iturributa, retired from football aged 36
- Ambe Derdoy (CF), who was last at Urbitzo FC, retired from football aged 34
- Ruisko Zarazua (DM), who was last at Urbitzo FC, retired from football aged 37
- Lore Ameya (CB), who was last at Urizaharra FC, retired from football aged 37
- Oinatz Lissarrage (GK), who was last at Urizaharra FC, retired from football aged 33
- Gotzon Hoyanarte (GK), who was last at Ximun Orieta FC, retired from football aged 36
- Eneko Maiz (RB), who was last at Ximun Orieta FC, retired from football aged 38

Top Players

Ten Most Valued
1. Pristina Shine (EQS), CF, age 34 - Iturributa United - Đ5 M
2. Kolejes Marajis (FFD), RM, age 22 - Gortz United - Đ3.4 M
3. Alexis Ardouin (VLD), CF, age 30 - Iturributa United - Đ3 M
4. Andrés Abrigo (VLD), RM, age 26, Urbizania Wanderers - Đ2.9 M
5. Brandon Irving (SNL), CF, age 28 - Urbizania Wanderers - Đ2.8 M
6. Abarrotz Zumalakarregi, AM, age 26 - Sporting Iturributa - Đ2.7 M
7. Evangelino Pulido Castaneda (PAS), CF, age 25 - Sporting Iturributa - Đ2.4 M
8. Ari Hlynursbur (GRF), RM, age 26 - Sporting Iturributa - Đ2.3 M
9. Lino Kaberle (STL), GK, age 26 - Sporting Iturributa - Đ2.2 M
10. Tomofumi Ishimoda, CF, age 29 - Gortz United - Đ2.1 M

Ten Best Paid (per annum)
1. Pristina Shine (EQS), CF, age 34 - Iturributa United - Đ5.7 M
2. Danica Marinkovic (NPH), CF, age 31, Royal Rumiatzi - Đ5.1 M
3. Alexis Ardouin (VLD), CF, age 30 - Iturributa United - Đ5 M
4. Brandon Irving (SNL), CF, age 28 - Urbizania Wanderers - Đ3.6 M
5. Alexis Durmisi (VLD), LM, age 32 - Urbizania Wanderers - Đ3.5 M
6. Arysa Hensser (NPH), DM, age 30 - Sporting Iturributa - Đ3.1 M
7. Julian Mann (EUR), AM, age 32 - Urbizania Wanderers - Đ3.1 M
8. Andrés Abrigo (VLD), RM, age 26 - Urbizania Wanderers - Đ3 M
9. Konrad Matheny (NPH), GK, age 32 - Royal Rumiatzi - Đ3 M
10. Tomofumi Ishimoda, CF, age 29 - Gortz United - Đ3 M

Teams

Iturributa United, est. 523
Ground: Old City Stadium (72,000), Iturributa
Colours: White with red sash, red shorts, white socks
Major rivals: Sporting Iturributa (The Iturributan Derby), Royal Rumiatzi (political), Iturributa Racing Club (local), Royal Association (local-political)
Major honours: Cup Winners’ Cup 28, Copa de Campeones 16 & 18, 6 First Division titles, 4 Royal Cups, 3 Ides of March Cups, 7 Iturributan Premier Division titles, 3 Iturributan President's Cups, runners-up of UICA Champions’ Cups 39 & 52
Main sponsor: Badiola (vehicles)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 32.8 M
Seasons in the First Division: 31 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Victor Aguiar (CBZ), _LB_ Isaac Doherty (EUR), _CB_ Janne Toivanen (SVJ), _CB_ Alex Rivers (KRY), _RB_ Zhu Aiguo (YZH), _DM_ Arnesa Darroze (NPH), _DM_ Boza Despotovic (MYT), _LM_ Fangti Pikolaugh (CMT), _RM_ Echeberri Herrekalde, _CF_ Alexis Ardouin (VLD), _CF_ Pristina Shine © (EQS)
Bench: _GK_ Eyande Menta, _GK_ Enaut Sarry, _LB_ Palla Jagidar (SRS), _CB_ Ostots Yerro, _CB_ Gorka Ibatborde, _RB_ Ekaitz Pana, _DM_ Indartsu Lekea, _DM_ Baiardo Badostain, _LM_ Iztal Otaola, _CM_ Haitz Layeni, _RM_ Egoi Lea, _AM_ Perucho Unda, _CF_ Iraitz Algarin, _CF_ Lukas Bright (BRE), _CF_ Nikita Apostolov (MYT)
Manager: Justin Vauxhall (BRE), 8th season in charge
Club reputation: Frenetic, energetic, populist. Driven to excel at whatever cost. The rowdy one of the two giants out of Iturributa.
Fans’ expectation: The title
Pundits’ prediction: 1st of 20
Notes: Having won two First Division titles in a row, spirits are high at Justin Vauxhall’s Iturributa United. To further reinforce the team, United have splashed over 6 million diru on Valladar striker Alexis Ardouin, together with a more modest 800k diru on Mytanar defensive midfielder Boza Despotovic. Victor Aguiar has taken over as starting goalkeeper from the retiring Dana Hutchins. Though plenty of young talent waits on the wings, pundits warn that the team’s core players are getting rather old – Rivers, Zhu, Pikolaugh, Herrekalde and even Ardouin are trending over 30. Pristina Shine is also 34, but who knows how pony years work.

Sporting Iturributa, est. 512
Ground: Old City Stadium (72,000), Iturributa
Colours: Crimson with gold chevron, crimson shorts and socks
Major rivals: Iturributa United (The Iturributan Derby), Royal Rumiatzi (political), Iturributa Racing Club (local), Royal Association (local-political)
Major honours: Cup Winners’ Cup 20, 6 First Division titles, 4 Royal Cups, 7 Iturributan Premier Division titles, 5 Iturributan President's Cups, UICA Iturributan Club of the Century
Main sponsor: IB Investments (finance)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 33.9 M
Seasons in the First Division: 31 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Lino Kaberle (STL), _LB_ Devlyn Harris (QUE), _CB_ Irakusne Hecharri, _CB_ Thomas Kaberle (STL), _RB_ Yuaneizu Mendia, _DM_ Ferena Rauch © (NPH), _DM_ Arysa Hensser (NPH), _LM_ Trent Roberts (EUR), _RM_ Ari Hlynursbur (GRF), _AM_ Abarrotz Zumalakarregi, _CF_ Evangelino Pulido Castaneda (PAS)
Bench: _GK_ Cheru Otermin, _GK_ Artzeina Alkatena, _LB_ Zilar Sarries, _CB_ Astigar Pekastaing, _CB_ Oidor Lubiano, _CB_ Echachu Oriza, _RB_ Baiona Menduburu, _DM_ Xurdin Eskurdia, _DM_ Erruki Yauza, _CM_ Lehen Obia, _LM_ Ohashi Kiichi (SQR), _RM_ Altzibar Ulbina, _AM_ Lumugue Niforro (TIO), _CF_ Xantalen Gastambide, _CF_ Marco Bruno (QAD)
Manager: Cheney Bittencourt (NPH), 3rd season in charge
Club reputation: Refined, classy, value a slow and methodical style of play. Think very highly of themselves. The snobbish one of the two giants out of Iturributa.
Fans’ expectation: The title
Pundits’ prediction: 2nd of 20
Notes: Sporting Iturributa have finished 2nd in 5 of the last 6 seasons, and haven’t won the title in 7. Mikel Aluztiza and now Cheney Bittencourt have built a formidable team, but one that is seemingly cursed to always falter at the last hurdle; last-minute meltdowns have been to blame for several of Sporting’s squandered opportunities. Under Bittencourt they have been on the up, however, and have made some inspired signings: Quebeoic left-back Devlyn Harris is expected to grow into a highly talented player, while playmaker Abarrotz Zumalakarregi returns to Sporting after long years honing his craft in Audioslavia and Nephara. Ari Hlynursbur, one of Ituraitz FC’s best players, has also been snapped up for a large fee. Veteran Nepharan midfielder Ferena Rauch has been appointed captain after the retirement of the long-serving Mogel Doyenard.

Urbizania Wanderers, est. 523
Ground: Cherketzo Arena (53,200), Urbizania
Colours: All dark green
Major rivals: Ituraitz FC (competitive), Royal Rumiatzi, South Factory, Astograth University (all regional)
Major honours: UICA Champions’ Cup 43, 8 First Division titles, 7 Royal Cups
Main sponsor: Duchess Airways (airline)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 26.5 M
Seasons in the First Division: 46 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Dieje Ibrelaná © (FFD), _LB_ Roman Palomer (SVG), _CB_ Kara Lynch (TLI), _CB_ Zeruko Echeberria, _RB_ Eloise Markus (NPH), _DM_ Ekain Dirube, _DM_ Yoshimi Hirahito (TAE), _LM_ Alexis Durmisi (VLD), _RM_ Andrés Abrigo (VLD), _AM_ Julian Mann (EUR), _CF_ Brandon Irving (SNL)
Bench: _GK_ Ostadar Eriksen, _GK_ Bidari Worner, _LB_ Guruzne Beraza, _CB_ Gilen Kaparra, _CB_ Ilazki Balaich, _CB_ Zuhaitz Alurralde, _RB_ Galindo Beobide, _DM_ Kaxen Sahasket, _DM_ Distiratsu Oniate, _LM_ Pilare Garaza, _CM_ Yurdan Mandiola, _RM_ Bixincho Olate, _AM_ Gabon Saralegi, _CF_ Echachu Zorraindo, _CF_ Balendin Betonazko
Manager: Eriz Bakaikoa, 10th season in charge
Club reputation: Value skillful, beautiful football. Vibe of an intimate, local club despite massive success.
Fans’ expectation: The title
Pundits’ prediction: 3rd of 20
Notes: Ten years of Eriz Bakaikoa at the helm have yielded two First Division titles and a Royal Cup; a success, no doubt. It’s now been 5 seasons of no silverware and Bakaikoa promising that things will get better, and it seems that if he isn’t capable of producing something this year, it may be the end of an era in Urbizania. The manager seems to have taken some criticisms to heart and made significant moves after centre-back Martí Donat and right-back Ageio Osinde were sold off against his wishes. Nepharan right-back Eloise Markus, formerly of the powerful AFC Corvistone, is Wanderers’ marquee signing of the season, and will be joined by Licentian centre-back Kara Lynch from Athletic Olarria. The club tried and failed to sign a big-name replacement for aged captain Ibon Irisarre in defensive midfield; they have settled for Iturributa United’s Ekain Dirube, whom neither fans nor Bakaikoa seem convinced by.

Gortz United, est. 561
Ground: Itsasargiberria Stadium (43,315), Gortz
Colours: All lavender
Major rivals: Gortz Academy (local), Ituraitz FC, Athletic Club Olarria (both regional-competitive)
Major honours: 1 First Division title
Main sponsor: Henrik (Polarian finance)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 25.5 M
Seasons in the First Division: 28 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Kuter (DAI), _LB_ Gartzen Boneta, _CB_ Marchelin Mezkiriz, _CB_ Arnold Donaldson (KHD), _RB_ Nwdawd yTismewch (KOR), _DM_ Valtter Marvinsson (GRF), _CM_ Lehoiar Oztolaza, _CM_ Borna Marusic (MYT), _LM_ Shiloh Morgenstern (TAE), _RM_ Kolejes Marajis (FFD), _CF_ Tomofumi Ishimoda ©
Bench: _GK_ Xurdin Biyalain, _GK_ Orzaize Chaneke, _LB_ Garikoitz Keheiye, _CB_ Adrian Dassault (TKT), _CB_ Endira Ibarburu, _RM_ Eztebe Hegilein, _RB_ Marchelie Korera, _DM_ Kiliz Menbieye, _CM_ Gunutz Yriberry, _CM_ Yaizki Gamino, _LM_ Hitzeder Echegoyen, _RM_ Letasu Biyamayor, _AM_ Xarles Lazkano, _CF_ Sabin Laza, _CF_ Eddie Bains (SCT)
Manager: Eneko Madariaga, 8th season in charge
Club reputation: The newest side to win the First Division. Resourceful, scrappy, fight to the end.
Fans’ expectation: IFCF qualification
Pundits’ prediction: 4th of 20
Notes: After shocking the nation by winning the First Division, Gortz have had a rough couple of seasons, scraping into the Challengers Cup and now missing it entirely. To keep up the pace and remain competitive for the title, they need to be getting IFCF football; to do that they have hung onto talismanic playmaker/winger/false 9/striker Tomofumi Ishimoda and signed Ko-orenite right-back Nwdawd yTismewch. One player they couldn’t hold back was goalkeeper Unax Goyenola, who has shot off to 1830 Cathair of Audioslavia; the transfer deal included a replacement in the form of Gortz’s new Daineri starting goalkeeper, Kuter.

Blue Mountain Range, est. 518
Ground: Ximun Orieta Sporting Ground (34,000), Echegoyan
Colours: All sky blue
Major rivals: Echegoyan FC (The Echegoyan Derby), Miners FC (local)
Major honours: 1 Royal Cup
Main sponsor: Weaver, Smith & Wrangler (Taeshani apparel)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 20 M
Seasons in the First Division: 43 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Leheren Burunzangaray, _LB_ Santiago Santiago © (TAE), _CB_ Azeari Iturria, _CB_ Eyande Osamiz, _CB_ Aristide Quickley (QAD), _RB_ Danni Reed (QOD), _DM_ Benjamin Breunig (SWR), _DM_ Inoki Legisamon, _LM_ Gorka Urtaran, _RM_ Robin Harrysson (GRF), _CF_ Anaia Olabegogaeskoecha
Bench: _GK_ Atze Labadie, _GK_ Matia Kendagorta, _LB_ Lapurdi Esparra, _CB_ Alarabi Meabebasterrechea, _CB_ Andikona Urburu, _CB_ Arnaitz Urenga, _RB_ Aire Kobelas, _DM_ Geun Mee-Kyong (HIN), _DM_ Rosalia Prince (EFL), _LM_ Yanpier Aroix, _CM_ Armando Caruso (SVG), _RM_ Lezaeta Zarakondegi, _AM_ Aurre Sarasola, _CF_ Gerazan Legazpi, _CF_ Jacky Abatantuono (JUE)
Manager: Xander McDrew (TAE), 7th season in charge
Club reputation: Ultra-defensive, ultra-physical. Ugly tackles, ugly football. Extremely consistent. Reviled by most but wildly popular in Taeshan.
Fans’ expectation: IFCF qualification
Pundits’ prediction: 5th of 20
Notes: Blue Mountain Range have just come off their best season ever: 3rd place and their first Royal Cup title. The Taeshani trio of Xander McDrew, Daigo Coshan, and Santiago Santiago have won over the blue side of Echegoyan; now that captain Coshan has retired, however, BMR face a challenge going forward. Will they be able to replicate last season’s success or will it all fall apart? Though they have signed Qasdeni centre-back Aristide Quickley for Coshan’s position, their other strong defender, Eyande Osamiz, is a youthful 36. Striker Anaia Olabegogaeskoecha also leaves doubts as to his effectiveness, though Robin Harrysson is more than capable of making up the difference.

Royal Rumiatzi, est. 541
Ground: Knights' Stadium (70,000), Rumiatzi
Colours: White shirt, royal blue shorts and socks
Major rivals: Athletic Club Rumiatzi (The Rumiatzi Derby), Iturributa United, Sporting Iturributa (both political), Ituraitz FC (competitive), Urbizania Wanderers (regional), Astograth University (local)
Major honours: Cup Winners’ Cup 25, Copa de Campeones 22, 11 First Division titles, 9 Royal Cups, Aéropag Football Invitational 22, 1 Ides of March Cup
Main sponsor: Dukomm (telecomms)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 25.6 M
Seasons in the First Division: 46 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Konrad Matheny © (NPH), _LB_ Loxjilo Exihosahar (FFD), _CB_ Patrick Fitz (BRE), _CB_ Aztore Andia, _CB_ Martí Donat (TEQ), _RB_ Victoire De Saint-Pierre (CMT), _LM_ Kherles Ensaunden (KOR), _CM_ Otsando Zabay, _RM_ Renee Shaver (CDG), _CF_ Danica Marinkovic (NPH), _CF_ Mogel Galdiano
Bench: _GK_ Lore Soloaga, _GK_ Gilamu Ouret, _LB_ Silban Elichagaray, _CB_ Munia Alzuagaray, _CB_ Kasen Urriaga, _RB_ Nahia Elgeno, _DM_ Guchi Oyea, _LM_ Petrarch Karaiskakis (NPH), _CM_ Leheren Goyhenespe, _CM_ Davidov Rominevskiy (TWI), _RM_ Ubelteso Lasota, _AM_ Ubelteso Peruchena, _CF_ Artizar Kiordia, _CF_ Urbasa Aldanondo, _CF_ Teyo Menbieye
Manager: Obeko Mundutegi, 1st season in charge
Club reputation: Rich, powerful, will settle for nothing but the best. Trophies are the goal, or heads will roll. Incredibly insecure over the lack of UICA/IFCF success.
Fans’ expectation: The title
Pundits’ prediction: 6th of 20
Notes: This season marks Royal Rumiatzi’s 150th anniversary, and to start the celebrations they have unveiled a snazzy new crest. The atmosphere at Knights’ Stadium is less than jovial, however; the last three years have been disappointing, and were capped by a disastrous 9th-place finish last season. Manager Jerome Jaffacake-Phillips got the axe and in his stead comes Obeko Mundutegi, who managed East Railway for over a decade. There is some suspicion of Mundutegi due to Railway being minor cross-city rivals of Rumiatzi, but it is indisputable that he took a yo-yo club and turned them into solid First Division regulars. That sort of stability, but at the very top, is what the board is looking for. As for the squad, Rumiatzi have cleaned house: out with Iñaki Imabayama, Guy Reason, Nolan Moore, Slobodan Vujovic, and more. In with defenders Martí Donat and Patrick Fitz, strikers Mogel Galdiano, Teyo Menbieye, and the controversial signing of centre-midfielder Otsando Zabay, a young starlet poached from huge rivals Athletic Club Rumiatzi. It was not cheap – Royal Rumiatzi had to buy out his relegation release clause – but they have on their hands one of Astograth’s most promising midfielders at just 21. The biggest signing of the season, however, is World Cup-winning winger Kherles Ensaunden from Ko-oren. Never mind that he’s 32, or that they got him from the Ko-orenite second tier: he’s a World Cup winner, and that’s the kind of prestige Royal Rumiatzi are willing to pay a lot of money for.

by **Astograth** » Sat Jun 11, 2022 11:24 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 691 Preview – Part 2 (The Mid-table)

Athletic Club Olarria, est. 504
Ground: North Point Stadium (61,317), Olarria
Colours: Claret with sky blue hoop, claret shorts and socks
Major rivals: Sporting Olarria (The Olarria Derby), Ituraitz FC, Gortz United (both regional-competitive), Royal Ibarbe (competitive)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Amuarraina Errege (seafood)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 18.5 M
Seasons in the First Division: 35 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Olaiz Baskary, _LB_ Urrecha Lizaraso, _CB_ Ubarna Aizpitarte ©, _CB_ Adon Aburto, _RB_ Iohana Mercado (ASU), _DM_ Santi Arankibia, _LM_ Izaskun Egiluz, _RM_ Amber Docherty (KSK), _AM_ Aingeru Edera, _CF_ Chindoki Irastorza, _CF_ Telá Potos (TIO)
Bench: _GK_ Declan Davies (HVY), _GK_ Astigar Muhaburu, _LB_ Luken Ubiya, _CB_ Ichaso Medinabeitia, _CB_ Galindo Utesa, _CB_ Johnson Mcjohnsom (PFA), _RB_ Neil Blackwood (CBP), _DM_ Enetz Tutor, _CM_ Gorosti Espos, _LM_ Oinaz Kamon, _RM_ Azibar Reparaz, _AM_ Goiz Izurreta, _CF_ Hats Chapartegi, _CF_ Berasko Korradi, _CF_ Imanol Bethularan
Manager: Ametz Montalban, 4th season in charge
Club reputation: Consistent, but can't break the glass ceiling of a title win. Feel they've paid their dues, yet overlooked and underrated.
Fans’ expectation: Top 6
Pundits’ prediction: 7th of 20
Notes: After several mediocre seasons, Athletic Club Olarria returned to fine form with a fifth-place finish, vindicating the young Ametz Montalban as a capable manager. This season, AC Olarria will be hoping to repeat the feat, though they’ve undergone something of a squad overhaul: gone are Lore Kartery, Paskal Layinde, goalkeeper Atsuko Mitsushima, Baiardo Badostain, Licentian centre-back Kara Lynch, and disloyal forward Olentzaro Anseteori. Their replacements are not flashy but they are, on paper, solid and cost-effective: keeper Olaiz Baskary joins from Royal Rumiatzi after a loan spell at Bakartirla, proven defender Adon Aburto is in from Antiguoko, and Tioguldós striker Telá Potos has also been signed after suffering relegation with Echegoyan; all on free transfers. Pundits are divided on whether Athletic Olarria’s board is being shrewd or cheap, but another run to the Challengers Cup was always going to be difficult.

Sporting Arkamo, est. 542
Ground: The Bells (43,505), Arkamo
Colours: Brown and gold stripes, brown shorts, gold socks
Major rivals: Akialden Marauders (The Arkamo Derby), Izarloka FC, Lermendia FC (both regional), Antiguoko FC (regional-competitive)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Barrertze (lifestyle)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 16.3 M
Seasons in the First Division: 18 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Zhao Yong (YZH), _LB_ Mayorga Orayen, _CB_ Loiola Urpi, _CB_ Cherran Peluaga, _RB_ Pernille Lingaard (SVJ), _LM_ Iaki Agerrebengoa ©, _CM_ Ivor Esteban (GTK), _CM_ Jeremiah Ruiz (ETN), _RM_ Udiarraga Irazustabarrena, _CF_ Olentzaro Anseoteori, _CF_ Larendi Gorriz
Bench: _GK_ Aurken Maruri, _GK_ Oxel Echaburu, _LB_ Luki Istekahandy, _CB_ Diegoche Hetagoyena, _CB_ Luki Bringas, _CB_ Santi Egozain, _RB_ Fortun Izkerdo, _DM_ Hegoi Alberbide, _LM_ Loramendi Errakalde, _CM_ Gaston Urdingio, _RM_ Isidor Leibar, _AM_ Ortle Fletcher, _CF_ Hitzeder Lizalde, _CF_ Umea Akerra, _CF_ Bidari Mendigoechea
Manager: Bortzaioriz Lizandra, 5th season in charge
Club reputation: Reliable, well-managed club, do a lot with little. Wholesome countryside support. Rumoured to be favoured by the FAF.
Fans’ expectation: Top-half finish
Pundits’ prediction: 8th of 20
Notes: After a rocky start to his tenure, Bortzaioriz Lizandra has earned himself a reputation as a rock-solid manager, elevating Arkamo into a consistent top-half side that can continue dreaming of IFCF qualification. This season he will have quite the squad to attempt it. Despite selling star striker Mogel Galdiano to Royal Rumiatzi, Arkamo have secured the services of former national team forward Olentzaro Anseoteori. They have also replaced goalkeeper Arano Ilaria with Yue national team keeper Zhao Yong, plus signed Jeremiah Ruiz from Sporting Iturributa and a new face from a new nationality in Ivor Esteban of Gortolekua (not to be confused with Gotorlekau, Athletic Club Rumiatzi’s legendary stadium). It’s looking to be a promising season for Sporting Arkamo, so long as the new signings pan out.

Ituraitz FC, est. 577
Ground: Ituraitz Sporting Ground (63,000), Ituraitz
Colours: All red
Major rivals: Ituraitz Victory (The Ituraitz Derby), Urbizania Wanderers, Royal Rumiatzi (both competitive), Athletic Club Olarria, Gortz United (both regional-competitive), Ximun Orieta FC (local)
Major honours: UICA Champions’ Cup 47, UICA Globe Cup 45, UICA Super Cup 44, Copa de Campeones 20, 9 First Division titles, 6 Royal Cups, Aéropag Football Invitational 25, 4 Ides of March Cups, UICA Astograthian Club of the Century
Main sponsor: Chistorra Sarlange (charcuterie)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 16.2 M
Seasons in the First Division: 46 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Phoebe Corder (BRE), _LB_ Ema Erdei (PAS), _CB_ Mike Sloah (SNL), _CB_ Amar Kovacevic (MYT), _RB_ Tiburcio Hoyo (FFD), _LM_ Ander Ametrano, _CM_ Puristina Shinra (HIN), _CM_ Elsebeth Celustka © (NPH), _RM_ Ortze Ohets, _CF_ Modevideo Carpi (QUR), _CF_ Peyo Isamendi
Bench: _GK_ Fernando Armida (STB), _GK_ Herensuge Ondarra, _LB_ Mirande Anibardo, _CB_ Alaine Pikochet, _CB_ Aes Echeluz, _CB_ Titus Baranzano, _RB_ Cheru Lizarza, _DM_ Mederi Oilhaborda, _LM_ Orixe Mantinian, _CM_ Iparragirre Paldao, _RM_ Kalare Kiriza, _AM_ Dominix Birto, _CF_ Meir Dowling-Dockson (EFL), _CF_ Mâánéràtö Jíí (FFD), _CF_ Xantalen Bikandi
Manager: Mikel Aluztiza, 2nd season in charge
Club reputation: Historically successful, attractive, cosmopolitan; now struggling to return to that image. The world champion 654-55 Ituraitz is often regarded as the best Astograthian team of all time.
Fans’ expectation: IFCF qualification
Pundits’ prediction: 9th of 20
Notes: It’s been a sorry few years for Ituraitz FC, as the one-time world champions slipped into the mid-table and rampant despair, reduced to signing random Farves in the hope that they’d turn out to be the next Loxjilo Exihosahar. They’ve begun to turn around with experienced manager Mikel Aluztiza, however, which has shed away the concerns over having someone so identified with Sporting Iturributa in charge of Ituraitz. The connection was not lost on fans when Sporting swept in to buy Ari Hlynursbur, arguably Ituraitz’s best player, but the high fee and Hlynursbur’s own wishes left them with little choice. To replace Hlynursbur, Aluztiza has gone for Ortze Ohets, Athletic Rumiatzi’s exciting right winger and aged just 20. Pasargan left-back Ema Erdei should also give the Reds some strength down a wing that has felt weak in recent seasons. If the upward trend continues, Ituraitz could conceivably swing into the top 6 or so, but this remains a fragile squad with little depth outside the big names in the starting eleven.

Royal Ibarbe, est. 488/500 (disputed)
Ground: Erda Street (19,000), Ibarbe
Colours: Purple shirt, yellow shorts, purple socks
Major rivals: Ibarbe Sport, Ibarbe Youth (both local), Athletic Club Olarria (competitive)
Major honours: 1 Royal Cup
Main sponsor: Zerrigela (finance)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 17.2 M
Seasons in the First Division: 23 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Azubeli Arana, _LB_ Minerva Compton (KOR), _CB_ Kamil Zinkovsky (MYT), _CB_ Malin Ubbisdóttir (GRF), _RB_ Ixaka Echeberz, _DM_ Younis Pyrite (ISK), _DM_ Tier Chardin (KOR), _LM_ Osfral Leruose (TIO), _RM_ Echahun Dacharry ©, _AM_ Guy Reason (FFD), _CF_ Robert Lucero (TKT)
Bench: _GK_ Bitor Eiguren, _GK_ Zilar Leskarboura, _LB_ Aratz Iarritu, _CB_ Echachu Habiage, _CB_ Huatxehai Exaimahe (TXA), _CB_ Anartz Ugeruaga, _RB_ Oxarra Nabarrete, _DM_ Chimich Jansson, _DM_ Erauso Zuzunaga, _LM_ Haritz Tauregi, _CM_ Chindoki Yano, _RM_ Silbane De Faumont (MRT), _AM_ Gau Urunaga, _CF_ Hurko Barreneche, _CF_ Ixaka Lairihoy
Manager: Churio Senosian, 1st season in charge
Club reputation: The 'nouveau riche' of the league. Historically a minor club, but have broken into and settled in the top half of the table.
Fans’ expectation: Top 6
Pundits’ prediction: 10th of 20
Notes: Royal Ibarbe had gotten used to haunting the top half of the table, teasing a Challengers Cup qualification; this made last season’s 11th place all the more shocking, as it’s the first time in more than a decade that they’ve dropped below 10th. This marked the end of Ilazki Altzibararehuluaga’s time as manager, with Churio Senosian arriving from Sporting Olarria to take over. The board’s first choice was Aitor Bustingorry of rivals Ibarbe Sport who, to Royal’s great embarrassment, immediately and publicly shot down their approach. The Ibarbe derby is sure to be fire after this, and Royal Ibarbe are of a mind to, if not regain their place in the top half of the table, at least annihilate Sport in their two meetings of the season. As far as their squad goes, there’s been a lot of movement: Zeynel Abidin Birkan and Chuy Villaverde, both full-backs, have retired, while Lumugue Niforro and Ema Erdei have been sold upwards. New signings include Guy Reason from Royal Rumiatzi, the Ko-orenite pair of Tier Chardin and Minerva Compton; and former national team star Ixaka Echeberz.

Antiguoko FC, est. 514
Ground: The Enclave (45,058), Antiguoko
Colours: Red and white quarters, red shorts and socks
Major rivals: Gesterlake FC, Royal Arexa (both historic), Sporting Arkamo (regional-competitive)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Yogutz (dairy)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 14 M
Seasons in the First Division: 20 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Arano Ilaria, _LB_ Paskal Layinde, _CB_ Inguma Labat, _CB_ Pudes Urket, _RB_ Arrosko Zugazti, _DM_ Gareth Menat (NPH), _DM_ Argider Eges, _LM_ Yonatoño de la Garza (FFD), _RM_ Thierry Cailleux (HIN), _AM_ Uzuri Borthagaray ©, _CF_ Santikurtz Albar
Bench: _GK_ Lehen Nikoularena, _GK_ Hanot Echeto, _LB_ Hats Lizondo, _CB_ Ilari Beola, _CB_ Lauaxeta Salayaran, _CB_ Erruki Giyamondegi, _RB_ Rez Bala (PAS), _DM_ David Brandon (IGR), _LM_ Raj Gupta (ETN), _RM_ Yaël La Reyne (OAM), _CM_ Zufiaurre Izurieta, _AM_ Haitz Hargindegi, _CF_ Kaiet Izurrategi, _CF_ Hegazti Idarreta, _CF_ Sengrat Echaluz
Manager: Agoztar Ilarduya, 4th season in charge
Club reputation: Combative and tireless. Have practically their entire province supporting them.
Fans’ expectation: Top-half finish
Pundits’ prediction: 11th of 20
Notes: Last season, Antiguoko somehow lucked into signing Farfadillis national team player Yonatoño de la Garza. The only explanation is that the good name of Farf players has been besmirched by flops like Ituraitz FC’s Mâánéràtö Jíí. Pundits even now claim that de la Garza’s season was a fluke, and that playing for the Farf national team isn’t proof of anything. No other Astograthian clubs have tried to sign the 20-year-old, so on he stays at Antiguoko, towering above everybody else. The board are surely hoping to sell him on for a good sum eventually, but for now belts remain tight. Their big spending of the season is on goalkeeper Arano Ilaria, Nepharan midfielder Gareth Menat, and left-back Paskal Layinde, complemented with the loaning of Pudes Urket and Argider Eges, both from Royal Rumiatzi. If de la Garza can come through, Antiguoko are looking at another comfortable season in the top half of the table – and perhaps more. If he doesn’t, they could sink quite badly.

Ituraitz Victory, est. 496
Ground: Ituraitz Sporting Ground (63,000), Ituraitz
Colours: Blue shirt, white shorts, blue socks
Major rivals: Ituraitz FC (The Ituraitz Derby), Ximun Orieta FC (local), Bakartirla Buccaneers (regional-competitive)
Major honours: 2 Royal Cups
Main sponsor: Petromok (oil & gas)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 11.7 M
Seasons in the First Division: 36 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Augustijn Kindvanevan (TSA), _LB_ Mastino Garofano (SVG), _CB_ Goren Elizabe, _CB_ Gartzen Beraun ©, _RB_ Eleanor Schaefer (NPH), _DM_ Iracho Yeregi, _DM_ Leo Zubiyaga, _LM_ Habette Montreaux (HIN), _RM_ Urko Leaniz, _AM_ Yuaneizu Aranda, _CF_ Sulpizio Plumb (MRT)
Bench: _GK_ Gorri Elizondo, _GK_ Mendebal Beheran, _LB_ Goizeder Lefer, _CB_ Manu Amosain, _CB_ Xefe Bessouat, _CB_ Baiardo Bordas, _RB_ Apal Gerenio, _DM_ Umea Lukastegi, _DM_ Intov-Gelan Nun (QUS), _LM_ Diegoche Ulbina, _CM_ Iyart Berrondo, _RM_ Ugutz Iturriche, _AM_ Lastur Elorduy, _CF_ Elatzar Lassa, _CF_ Izorne Espondeburu
Manager: Aketza Lacha, 2nd season in charge
Club reputation: Venerable. Respected but pitied. Massively popular in their city, no matter the lack of success.
Fans’ expectation: Mid-table finish
Pundits’ prediction: 12th of 20
Notes: There’s not much going on at Ituraitz Victory – but their fans are of the idea that no news is good news. Victory have gone several seasons with relegation troubles, and after emergency caretaker manager Aketza Lacha saved their skin and steered them to a respectable 12th place, it feels good for the headlines to not be announcing brimstone and mayhem at Victory HQ. They have lost talismanic striker Teyo Menbieye to Royal Rumiatzi, mind, but Mertagnian striker Sulpizio Plumb seems ready to step up and start in his head. Experienced journeyman Goren Elizabe has joined the team in defence and young winger Urko Leaniz has been signed from Echegoyan; together with some promotions from the academy, including the interesting 18-year-old defensive midfielder Leo Zubiyaga, Victory under Lacha seem capable of a stable mid-table season.

East Railway, est. 503
Ground: Narbaitza Memorial Stadium (36,226), Rumiatzi
Colours: Grey and black stripes, grey shorts and socks
Major rivals: South Factory (The Workers' Derby), Athletic Club Rumiatzi, Astograth University (local)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Zuanshi (Yue alcohol)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★ / Youth system ★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 11.2 M
Seasons in the First Division: 15 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Ayuko Mitsushima, _LB_ Urtsin Belderrain, _CB_ Zohiartze Orokieta ©, _CB_ Chindoki Moriyas, _RB_ James Cartlidge (MUR), _DM_ Connor Macdonald (KSK), _DM_ Marisa Ohashima (HIN), _LM_ Sakia Damani (CMT), _RM_ Lizar Tafaya, _AM_ Edur Elizahalde, _CF_ Mazuste Igerabide
Bench: _GK_ Goren Tamborindegi, _GK_ Ian Isoba, _LB_ Rachel Barrett (HAN), _CB_ Satordi Uzandizaga, _CB_ Sein Yoraizat, _RB_ Artizar Anteo, _DM_ Kaxen Algarin, _DM_ Gero Tamborindegi, _LM_ Ubarna Maturana, _CM_ Franchizko Irrazabal, _CM_ Kismi Galainena, _RM_ Ilazki Oleaga, _AM_ Yuli Nikoularena, _CF_ Hustaz Urresti, _CF_ Larendi Larraechea
Manager: Ilazki Altzibararechuluaga, 1st season in charge
Club reputation: Working-class and proud of it. Substantial support from rail workers and enthusiasts nationwide. Punch above their weight.
Fans’ expectation: Mid-table finish
Pundits’ prediction: 13th of 20
Notes: East Railway had it good under manager Obeko Mundutegi: from the depths of Second Division to established First Division regulars. In a way, they’ve come to replace their rivals South Factory as one of the ‘smaller Rumiatzi clubs’ in top flight. There was little ill will when Mundutegi decided this was as far as he could go with Railway, even if it was to join Royal Rumiatzi; he’ll always have a place in Railway fans’ hearts. In comes the acclaimed Ilazki Altzibararechuluaga, who has previously done great things witih Bakartirla Buccaneers and Royal Ibarbe. And he faced a challenge: Darian Bloodoff and Jake Swisher have retired, Oxel Porkel (the ur-journeyman) is gone, Goren Elizabe and Zhao Yong have moved to greener pastures. The new manager’s answer was a blitz of impact signings: playmaker Edur Elizahalde from Sporting Iturributa, goalkeeper Atsuko Mitsushima from Athletic Olarria, defensive midfielder Connor Macdonald from Iturributa United. It’s a lot of change in a short time, but if Railway can make it through the growing pains they’ll be setting themselves up for an exciting new era under Altzibararechuluaga.

by **Astograth** » Sun Jun 12, 2022 12:22 am

The Astograthian Football League
Season 691 Preview – Part 3 (The Relegation Battle)

Bakartirla Buccaneers, est. 589
Ground: Sovereignty Stadium (14,110), Kala
Colours: Black and red stripes, black shorts, white socks
Major rivals: Ituraitz Victory (regional-competitive)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Visit Kala (tourism)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 11.4 M
Seasons in the First Division: 10 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Edur Yraola, _LB_ Zuzen Sandra, _CB_ Garikoitz Abaria, _CB_ Nacro Astro (PFA), _RB_ Ward Cullen (NPH), _DM_ Diegoche Yauregizar, _DM_ Svetoslav Radozevic © (MYT), _LM_ Antso Biteri, _RM_ Deunoro Loyola, _AM_ Pia Aziz (MRT), _CF_ Tehmina Palani (SRS)
Bench: _GK_ Camille Iriarte, _GK_ Anakoz Amezkita, _LB_ Larendi Benyuria, _CB_ Birila Taiyade, _CB_ Errolan Gankiandia, _CB_ Ubelteso Larreagola, _RB_ Pes Arankedo, _DM_ Todor Echandi, _DM_ Pancheska Narbarte, _CM_ Rosenthorpe Thompsen (CMT), _LM_ Paolig Dessoubs-Le-Four (OAM), _RM_ Arixo Gorostidi, _AM_ Mirande Garaeta, _CF_ Iturri Barriola, _CF_ Argi Lisarasu
Manager: Haitz Maistegi, 1st season in charge
Club reputation: Plucky, passionate, surprising. Small club from a small island. Low expectations, low pressure, happy to be here.
Fans’ expectation: Mid-table finish
Pundits’ prediction: 14th of 20
Notes: Balendin Sorrekieta’s first seasons as manager of Bakartirla were highly acclaimed, but the last few years saw the club dip into the relegation struggle. He has been released from his contract and in his stead comes Haitz Maistegi, a man with vast experience but little success – arguably because he’s never had the resources to succeed. It will be interesting to see what he can do at Bakartirla, who in their 7th consecutive season in the top flight can reasonably claim to be First Division regulars. Maistegi’s first few moves on the transfer market are encouraging, at least: Diegoche Yauregizar, formerly of Royal Rumiatzi and Urbizania Wanderers, is a proven talent in defensive midfield, and there is a lot of new depth in the signings of Rosenthorpe Thompen, Birila Taiyade, and three loanees from top teams: Larendi Benyuria, Arixo Gorostidi, and Iturri Barriola. The first challenge of Maistegi’s tenure will be avoiding the relegation battle altogether.

Astograth University, est. 553
Ground: Arritzola (36,350), Rumiatzi
Colours: White and sky blue halves, sky blue shorts, white socks
Major rivals: Army United, South Factory, Royal Rumiatzi, Athletic Club Rumiatzi, East Railway (all local), Urbizania Wanderers (regional), Echegoyan FC (competitive)
Major honours: 2 First Division titles, 3 Royal Cups, Aéropag Football Invitational 23
Main sponsor: Koedalad (NGO)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 8.4 M
Seasons in the First Division: 35 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Bihar Raldua, _LB_ Johan Coalfield (BRE), _CB_ Hissho Munuzo (HIN), _CB_ Adaxa Kaoñahani (TXA), _RB_ Zabal Barendiain, _DM_ Jin Shirong (YZH), _DM_ Guðmann Arentsson (GRF), _LM_ Gasteiz Yrisarri, _RM_ Andoni Martinotz, _AM_ Garchot Dirassar ©, _CF_ Echachu Urtazu
Bench: _GK_ Teyo Darreche, _GK_ Bladi Gorospe, _LB_ Churio Berrozpe, _CB_ Nuxila Uhartemendia, _CB_ Hotz Balerdi, _CB_ Danel Andia, _RB_ Isusko Keno, _DM_ Iztal Anabia, _DM_ Bilbo Errainz, _CM_ Maore Ezama, _LM_ Urre Unamunzaga, _RM_ Unax Fernandez, _AM_ Gilamu Bengoechea, _CF_ Damyan Nifterik (ESH), _CF_ Ximun Barona
Manager: Lekubegi Guerrikaechebarria, 5th season in charge
Club reputation: The club of the Rumiatzi middle class. Once a top team, now long fallen. Desperate to regain status.
Fans’ expectation: Mid-table finish
Pundits’ prediction: 15th of 20
Notes: After repeatedly sinking teams into relegation, it seemed like Lekubegi Guerrikaechebarria would remain a controversial TV pundit the rest of his life. With Astograth University in the Second Division, however, he was given the chance to revive the club where he made his name as a player, and revive it he did: not only are they back in the top flight but placing well, with a 13th-place finish last season. The task at hand is simple: stay in First Division and continue moving into the mid-table, to eventually, in the long-term, become title contenders once again. For now, University have seen a lot of their young talent poached away: Aurre Sarasola, Marchelie Korera, and Gilamu Ouret were all valuable players with a bright future at the club. The proceeds from their sales can, at least, be put toward signing washed-up talent from around the league: the butcher of a centre-back known as Adaxa Kaoñahani; well-travelled winger Gasteiz Yrisarri from Royal Rumiatzi; ageing midfielder Guðmann Arentsson from Royal Ibarbe; and venerable playmaker Gilamu Bengoechea, who will be an overqualified backup for the team’s captain and star player Garchot Dirassar.

Ibarbe Sport, est. 519
Ground: Dr. Eriz Barandiaran (5,956), Ibarbe
Colours: All sky blue
Major rivals: Royal Ibarbe, Ibarbe Youth (both local)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Ezdairuzu (cryptocurrency)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 7.4 M
Seasons in the First Division: 2 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Gaueko Errekondo, _LB_ Berart Sesma, _CB_ Erauso Teyitegi, _CB_ Santikurtz Balensia, _RB_ Marko Bakedano, _LM_ Ipar Lardizabal, _CM_ Imanol Elgeta, _CM_ Eguzki Kirion, _RM_ Pudes Agotiborda ©, _CF_ Edorta Aniasko, _CF_ Gardotza Orderiz
Bench: _GK_ Bilinch Legizano, _GK_ Gilesindo Zariategi, _LB_ Ruisko Alsasua, _CB_ Errando Lobiano, _CB_ Mikeldi Ibaberry, _RB_ Izaskun Agirriberri, _DM_ Iraunkor Tresarrieu, _CM_ Munia Lekea, _CM_ Berdoi Nazabal, _LM_ Yon Sarra, _RM_ Domiku Indurain, _AM_ Xofre Basagania, _CF_ Orti Irustia, _CF_ Bihar Berrogain, _CF_ Goi Lasa
Manager: Aitor Bustingorry, 7th season in charge
Club reputation: By far the smallest club to reach the top flight. Their reputation is people confusing them with Royal Ibarbe, whom most people also regarded as a joke until the last decade or so. Linked to the local medical community.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 16th of 20
Notes: The smallest team to ever play in the First Division have expanded their ground by some 1,500 seats, thus meeting the minimum league standards. Other clubs still aren’t thrilled to have such minnows in their league, and Royal Ibarbe are leading a motion to increase the First Division minimum to 10,000 seats and raise the bar on what counts as a 3-star stadium. This is allegedly payback for Sport’s manager Aitor Bustingorry turning down Royal’s attempt at signing him – a burn not soon forgotten in the city of Ibarbe, which is set to feature the fiercest derbies in its history. Sport have sold winger Iztal Otaola to Iturributa United but otherwise retain their core players – most importantly the crucial partnership between 20-year-olds Imanol Elgeta and Eguzki Kirion – and have signed a solid centre-back in Erauso Teyitegi. It was already a monumental achievement for Sport to reach the top flight, then another to stay up – will they pull off a third?

Sporting Olarria, est. 518
Ground: The Emerald (13,766), Olarria
Colours: White shirt, sky blue shorts, black socks
Major rivals: Athletic Club Olarria (The Olarria Derby), Argos Olarria (local), Army United (historical)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: Transkribia (translation services)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★ / Youth system ★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 6.8 M
Seasons in the First Division: 2 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Eusko Segurola, _LB_ Sotil Munioz, _CB_ Ilazki Orrego, _CB_ Semera Larreburu, _RB_ Milian Miura, _DM_ Panfilo Napoleoni (JUE), _DM_ Olaia Aniz, _CM_ Ombre Pinnock (BRE), _AM_ Ongile Landaruru, _AM_ Garbie Inorreta, _CF_ Terese Gabirondo ©
Bench: _GK_ Gentza Iriteity, _GK_ Beremundo Lakaya, _LB_ Dei Eskerdo, _CB_ Apal Aizkorbi, _CB_ Lamia Inchasti, _RB_ Asentzio Oria, _DM_ Oxel Porkel, _DM_ Beila Montobio, _CM_ Formerio Oyonarte, _LM_ Pierres Lamikiz, _RM_ Diagur Sabaleta, _AM_ Kaiet Altzibararechuluaga, _AM_ Kepa Saligo, _CF_ Ortze Adarzua, _CF_ Gotzon Zanalda
Manager: Frantz Ormache, 1st season in charge
Club reputation: Olarria's 'other club', connected to the Royal Navy. Their fanbase is famously disliked and, by the extension, the rest of the club as well.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 17th of 20
Notes: Sporting Olarria were about to be relegated last season – until they pulled off a win against Urbizania Wanderers in the final match. Response to this was mixed: on the one hand, it was very cool for the underdogs to do that; on the other hand, everyone hates Sporting Olarria’s fanbase, for nebulous reasons; on the other other hand, everyone also hates Echegoyan FC, who were relegated instead, because they’re dirty bastards. At the least, Sporting Olarria have earned another season in the First Division and some begrudging respect for their grit. However, long-time manager Churio Senosian has left to manage Royal Ibarbe, and the club have instead signed Frantz Ormache, the well-connected son of Astograthian legend Dei Ormache. His previous experience in the First Division was a mediocre spell with Blue Mountain Range, so hopes aren’t high, though Ormache does have an eye for transfers: Panfilo Napoleoni, Ombre Pinnock, and Oxel Porkel will significantly strengthen the midfield, while Pierres Lamikiz and Beila Montobio make good loan signings. He’s even pried away playmaker Kepa Saligo from Erribe United, where he was captain – an unnecessary signing, since Sporting Olarria already have Landarburu and Inorreta in his role, but it will significantly weaken relegation rivals Erribe.

Royal Arexa, est. 510
Ground: Goyaingerua Stadium (45,596), Arexa
Colours: All white
Major rivals: Gesterlake FC (The Twin Cities Derby), Old City Central (The Arexan Derby), Antiguoko FC (historic)
Major honours: 1 Royal Cup
Main sponsor: Multiechea (home improvement)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 5.4 M
Seasons in the First Division: 17 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Barto Wahl (ZRH), _LB_ Gergori Leoz, _CB_ Aimar Abaroa, _CB_ Goi Urriolabeytia, _RB_ Lizar Kastanklares, _LM_ Arixo Leskerre, _CM_ Basil Lylac (NPH), _RM_ Bide Ohako, _AM_ Poz Orortegi, _CF_ Harri Olagibel, _CF_ Yasone Riz ©
Bench: _GK_ Belasko Zubiri, _GK_ Eate Saso, _LB_ Hodei Irassar, _CB_ Fermin Suhurt, _CB_ Xurdin Kareaga, _CB_ Echekopar Charola, _RB_ Koldo Lizaranzu, _DM_ Geraxane Goiti, _CM_ Milian Baldanza, _LM_ Arrats Ikiaga, _RM_ Sugoi Baskaran, _AM_ Altzibar Solozabal, _CF_ Argoitz Uriburo, _CF_ Urbez Esteban, _CF_ Baiardo Zumalakarregi
Manager: Goi Salha, 4th season in charge
Club reputation: A historic club from the ancient (and still major) city of Arexa, but have never quite settled into the First Division. Their fans are stereotyped as elitist and rabidly monarchist.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 18th of 20
Notes: Royal Arexa are back in the First Division after 9 years and, as always, an air of superiority follows behind. Despite being Second Division champions, pundits don’t rate their very highly. Their squad is mostly quite young and inexperienced, and everyone knows you can’t win anything with kids (other than the Second Division, clearly). Their U21 contingent includes Arixo Leskerre, Aimar Abaroa, Poz Orortegi, Harri Olagibel, and Bide Ohako, all in key positions of Goi Salha’s daring 4-3-1-2 formation. To make up for the gap in experience, Arexa have signed goalkeeper Barto Wahl from the relegated Echegoyan and Nepharan midfielder Basil Lylac from the also-relegated Iturributa Racing Club… perhaps not the best signings to avoid relegation, but they’re on a budget.

Erribe United, est. 586
Ground: Erkolantza Stadium (31,510), Erribe
Colours: Teal and white stripes, teal shorts and socks
Major rivals: Athletic Club Yungoitio, Chinchartu Lehoi (both regional)
Major honours: None
Main sponsor: KIEE Import & Export (imports & exports)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 5.9 M
Seasons in the First Division: 5 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Zuriko Ayuria, _LB_ Anaeaxi Bolinaga, _CB_ Otsando Erramundeguy, _CB_ Cherran Goyeche, _RB_ Maore Lizaso, _LM_ Egerdi Adarraga, _CM_ Atseden Echegoyen, _RM_ Aingeru Sayaz ©, _AM_ Mayorga Muniakas, _CF_ Bidari Aberatain, _CF_ Atzo Kampo
Bench: _GK_ Berdoi Berhoet, _GK_ Amuruza Nobleza, _LB_ Edur Otero, _CB_ Beila Tirapu, _CB_ Kusko Apalategi, _CB_ Urtzi Urus, _RB_ Ekhi Urchipia, _DM_ Bixincho Huar, _LM_ Odon Telechea, _CM_ Chordon Ytuarte, _RM_ Charan Karrikaburu, _AM_ Inautzi Loaiza, _CF_ Ximun Iun, _CF_ Bakar Karou, _CF_ Eztebe Urdayeta
Manager: Kimetz Obonaga, 3rd season in charge
Club reputation: Fringe club from a fringe city, neither very renowned for football. Trying to build a legacy.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 19th of 20
Notes: Erribe have never been able to stay in the First Division for very long; they’ll be hoping that their fourth attempt will be the one. Losing captain and playmaker Kepa Saligo to relegation rivals Sporting Olarria was a baffling, crippling move that sparked outrage in Erribe. In the aftermath, the club have set about signing a flurry of First Division regulars: Bidari Aberatain from Athletic Rumiatzi, Atzo Kampo from Bakartirla Buccaneers, Otsando Erramundeguy from Antiguoko, Mayorga Muniakas from Blue Mountain Range, and Cherran Goyeche from Ituraitz, among others. Granted, ‘regulars’ doesn’t mean they’re consistent – all of these players have struggled for playing time or are prone to irregular performances. If the planets align or coach Kimetz Obonaga can pull off a masterclass in man-management, Erribe might have the key to avoiding relegation – but it’s looking difficult.

Sporting Ibarguren, est. 513
Ground: Musket Field (25,602), Ibarguren
Colours: White and green stripes, white shorts, green socks
Major rivals: Arbetsana Crossing (regional-political)
Major honours: 1 Royal Cup
Main sponsor: Miriaka (coffee)
Infrastructure: Ground ★★★ / Training facilities ★★★ / Youth system ★★★
Estimated squad value: Đ 6.5 M
Seasons in the First Division: 1 of 46
Starting Lineup: _GK_ Orzaize Zubimendi, _LB_ Zeruko Eztanga, _CB_ Axular Yuse, _CB_ Yasone Zubiate, _RB_ Koldobika Otaran, _DM_ Ibon Irisarre, _DM_ Goizeder Abadia, _LM_ Aitzol Adria, _RM_ Santucho Garaygorta, _CF_ Koldobika Berreteaga ©, _CF_ Hani Echeto
Bench: _GK_ Garaile Mendaro, _GK_ Urbez Altera, _LB_ Formerio Deigarzabal, _CB_ Aznar Eskuza, _CB_ Eguntsenti Ezker, _CB_ Hustaz Bersaits, _RB_ Echeberri Sansirena, _DM_ Anartz Ansotegi, _DM_ Xofre Ezpeleta, _LM_ Apat Riz, _RM_ Yeremi Albea, _AM_ Amaduena Munyo, _CF_ Xabat Bradariz, _CF_ Sustrai Aranas, _CF_ Fortun Mingochea
Manager: Hanni Andikola, 4th season in charge
Club reputation: Perpetually in the lower tiers despite Ibarguren being a large city. Their civic and sporting rivalry with Arbetsana runs on the lines of secularism and religiousness, with Ibarguren being the former.
Fans’ expectation: Avoid relegation
Pundits’ prediction: 20th of 20
Notes: Promoted to the First Division for the first time ever, Sporting Ibarguren may be wide-eyed newcomers to the league, but not to high-level competition. They have to their name one Royal Cup, won against Urbizania Wanderers some 12 years ago; Ibarguren were until now the only cup winners to have never played in the top flight. A few geriatric veterans from that cup-winning squad still remain, but manager Hanni Andikola has gone to great lengths to reinforce on a budget. Goizeder Abadia and Urbizania Wanderers’ former captain, Ibon Irisarre, will make up his defensive midfield. Winger Aitzol Adria has been signed from Antiguoko and Ibarguren’s new goalkeeper, Orzaize Zubimendi, has been plucked from Sporting Iturributa’s bench. The rest are on loan, most notably centre-back Yasone Zubiate from Royal Rumiatzi and teenaged left-back Zeruko Eztanga from Blue Mountain Range. Nevertheless, it will take some extraordinary efforts to save Ibarguren from relegation.

by **Astograth** » Sun Jun 12, 2022 8:58 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 691 Review

The 46th season of the Astograthian Football League is now concluded.

First Division

Sporting Iturributa, after being runners-up in 5 of the last 6 seasons, have finally regained their place at the top of Astograthian football. When manager Cheney Bittencourt arrived, he promised to set them back on the right path and has, in his third season, duly delivered: this is a fearsome Sporting. From a core comprised of Nepharan co-nationals Ferena Rauch and Arysa Hensser in defensive midfield, the Chevrons launch attacks through the multiple prongs of wingers Trent Roberts, Ari Hlynursbur, and striker Evangelino Pulido Castaneda, with playmaker Abarrotz Zumalakarregi as the central nexus between them all. At the back, Siovanijan centre-back Thomas Kaberle has come into his own as one of the league’s finest defenders, forming a strong partnership with Irakusne Hecharri; his own brother, Lino Kaberle, stands tall in goal. The teams two wing-backs are Sporting’s revelations of the season, however: new signing Devlyn Harris and youth product Yuaneizu Mendia, both just 20 years old, have revolutionised this Sporting and given it flexible capabilities in both attack and defence.

Sporting had a slow start to the season, suffering several defeats against top opposition – although they did win the Iturributa Derby 2–0 in August – but rallied to seize the lead by early November, on matchday 12, after a 2–1 win at Ibarbe Sport. They tussled with Blue Mountain Range for the lead over December, after dropping points to Gortz United and losing the infamously difficult away fixture at BMR, but after the midway point on matchday 19 Sporting Iturributa did not give up the lead once. Theirs was a dominant campaign that buried and left behind their reputation as a weak-willed team. In early May, on matchday 36, Sporting played at Ituraitz Victory knowing that a single point would win them the title. They went into half-time with a 1–1 draw, goals by Elatzar Lassa and Ohashi Kiichi. In the second half, Sulpizio Plumb put Victory ahead in the 57th, which was answered by Evangelino Pulido Castaneda just 3 minutes later. A 2–2 draw still made Sporting the champions, and Victory – who played for nothing at this point – seemed content with the result. Cheney Bittencourt was not. In the 85th, Trent Roberts scored Sporting’s third goal, and in the 93rd minute Evangelino Pulido Castaneda headed in their fourth: an emphatic 4–2 away win to cap an emphatic season for the Chevrons. Of all Sporting’s players, the one that earned the most plaudits over the season – above even Iturributa United’s Pristina Shine – was Ari Hlynursbur. The shy Græntfjall, new to the team, rose to the challenge and became almost Sporting’s second playmaker. From the wing, Hlynursbur delivered short balls, long balls, high and low crosses, and more than a few fascinating dribbles to assist and score. Moreover, as a new player, Hlynursbur has also become the symbol of a new Sporting, unburdened by the failures of the past.

Below them in the table were hated rivals Iturributa United, the defending champions. Despite an erratic first half of the season, Justin Vauxhall’s team were marshalled by midfield commander Arnesa Darroze and indomitable striker Pristina Shine. An exciting and high-scoring campaign yielded such highlights as a 6–1 demolishing of Ituraitz FC, a 4–1 win away at Royal Rumiatzi, and a 6–0 blasting of Sporting Ibarguren (4 goals by Shine). No one was surprised to see Shine once again run away with the Top Scorer award, firing in 29. After just 6 years in the First Division, Shine is maybe one more season from entering the league’s top 10 all-time scoring charts – the kind of feat that takes other players a whole career in Astograth, or requires your name to be Laborious Hawk. Victor Aguiar and Boza Despotovic, both new to United’s starting lineup, passed muster though improvement is still possible; Alexis Ardouin, on the other hand, was judged disappointing. With a mammoth pricetag of over 6 million diru, the Valladar striker’s 5 goals each cost the club more than a million, not even factoring in his also huge salary. Ardouin will have to turn things around next season or risk the fans making him a scapegoat.

Blue Mountain Range had another phenomenal season, equalling last year’s best-ever 3rd-place finish. Everyone knows a trip to the Ximun Orieta Sporting Ground is always difficult, but this season more than ever, it was a fortress from which they turned away team after team. In October, when Bakartirla Buccaneers were the league’s unlikely leaders, BMR beat them 5–0 at the XOSG, an unusual scoreline for the most karelan team in Astograth. The defeat was so brutal that it set Bakartirla on a downward spiral to the mid-table, where they stayed the rest of the season. For BMR it was also a turning point, as they climbed to stake their claim to nothing if not the First Division itself. It seemed they were well on their way after beating both Iturributa United and Sporting Iturributa, but Sporting would soon reassert themselves and their lead would prove intractable. In the end, manager Xander McDrew did well to steer BMR toward another historic IFCF qualification finish: their final two matches were against Sporting Iturributa and Urbizania Wanderers, winning both to defend their top billing in the Challengers Cup. A fitting farewell for venerable centre-back Eyande Osamiz and an encouraging start for his partner Azeari Iturria, whose performances earned him a place on the Team of the Season.

Further down, Urbizania Wanderers and Royal Rumiatzi are both left disappointed, though they could’ve done a lot worse by not qualifying for the Challengers Cup. Wanderers were involved with the title race until steadily dropping away over the course of March. Royal Rumiatzi, on the other hand, were never involved: they had a dreadful first half of the season that saw them languish as low as 12th. It was only intervention by old legends of the club that new manager Obeko Mundutegi was spared by the club’s trigger-happy board, and the team did improve enough to climb into the Challengers Cup – the bare minimum set by the board for Mundutegi’s first season. Rock-solid performances by defensive pair Patrick Fitz and Aztore Andia were squandered by the team’s poor control in midfield. New striker Mogel Galdiano also proved himself a mediocre companion to Danica Marinkovic, who turned in a new personal best by scoring 24 goals over the season and again taking second place in the scoring charts. For Wanderers, it seems like a malaise has set in among the team, as no-one stands out despite featuring several of the league’s best-paid and nominally most talented players. Fans are divided on whether this is because of manager Eriz Bakaikoa or despite him, because despite low individual form they still fit together into a team capable of a decent 4th-place finish.

Below the Challengers Cup pack, Athletic Club Olarria, Ituraitz FC, Royal Ibarbe, Antiguoko FC, Sporting Arkamo, and Gortz United all finished within 3 points of each other – and Athletic Olarria only missed out on the Challengers Cup because of head-to-head results against Royal Rumiatzi. Observers should be cautioned not to read too much into positions when every team finished within such close margins, but that doesn’t mean boards and fans at Ituraitz and Gortz aren’t furious. For Athletic Olarria, to miss out so narrowly on IFCF qualification burns, but at least means they remain in contention. Another success was the signing of Adon Aburto and their attacking trio of Aingeru Edera, Chindoki Irastorza, and Telá Potos, who each scored in the two-digits. For Ituraitz, the frustration at once again being left in the cold is doubled by the fact that they lost to Gortz United in the last matchday, where a win would have placed them 4th in the table. Nevertheless, some things are going alright for this to be an option, and they would have the Royal Cup final to look forward to. The signing of Ortze Ohets has been praised in particular, as has the form of striker Modevideo Carpi, with 17 goals to his name, along with centre-back Amar Kovacevic and goalkeeper Phoebe Corder.

Royal Ibarbe failed to meet their goal of IFCF qualification but did soundly beat Ibarbe Sport in the two derbies they played; Sport’s relegation fulfils that desire, at least. Antiguoko, meanwhile, were one of the surprises of the season: during February they burst into the title picture, then in March seemed on track to a Challengers Cup finish. Not coincidentally, these were the two best months of their star winger, 20-year-old Yonatoño de la Garza, author of 17 goals and winner of the league’s Young Player of the Season award. Antiguoko will be hard-pressed to hang on to the de la Garza in the upcoming transfer window, even if other Astograthian clubs remain skeptical of young Farf national team players. For Sporting Arkamo, meanwhile, the season met expectations of a comfortable mid-table finish, leaving fans quite pleased. Striker Olentzaro Anseoteori, as if out to prove a point, scored 17 goals in 33 appearances; new signing Ivor Esteban passed with flying colours; and right-back Pernille Lingaard was such a highlight she made it onto the Team of the Season. In slightly more despair were Gortz United, who are likely to end manager Eneko Madariaga’s tenure after another lacklustre season where they finish outside the Challengers Cup. Tomofumi Ishimoda remains in top form and Kolejes Marajis again proved himself an excellent winger, but Gortz’s midfield and defence were lacking. Fans are also sure that 1830 Cathair fleeced them by sending some random Daineri goalkeeper they’d never heard of.

Bakartirla Buccaneers finished 12th, 2 points below Arkamo and Gortz, but flew high in the first half of the season: with a string of scrappy wins they climbed to the top of the First Division table by October. A 5–0 loss at Blue Mountain Range swatted them back down to reality. Bakartirla’s downward trend over the season can be blamed on many things: a chronic lack of depth, manager Haitz Maistegi being in his first season, manager Haitz Maistegi being a mediocre manager… but to their credit, they remained well clear of the relegation battle all season. Ituraitz Victory, Astograth University, and East Railway, were likewise untroubled and satisfied with their season, unremarkable as it may have been.

The same could not be said of Sporting Ibarguren, Sporting Olarria, and the three relegated teams: Royal Arexa, Erribe United, and Ibarbe Sport. Ibarguren, Sporting Olarria, and Ibarbe Sport were early candidates for relegation and all had swapped out their managers by January. For Ibarguren and Sporting Olarria this led to an uptick in their fortunes; for Ibarbe Sport it changed nothing, as their defence seemed a sieve and they struggled to score anything at all. Sport would remain rock-bottom until the end. Erribe United’s extended run of bad form began in February and quickly sunk them to penultimate position; sacking manager Kimetz Obonaga did not save them. Royal Arexa, meanwhile, stuck with Goi Salha even as they slipped positions from the mid-table and into the relegation spots; by the time they were fighting for their life it was April and the board judged it too disruptive to change managers at that point. Arexa went into the final match safe by one point above Sporting Olarria. Landaruru and Porkel scored for Sporting Olarria against a despondent, already-relegated Ibarbe Sport, giving them the 2–0 victory. At the same time, Royal Arexa lost at home to Ibarguren thanks to a solitary goal from Koldobika Berreteaga, and were relegated. The serious accusations by Royal Arexa that Sporting Olarria bribed Ibarbe Sport to let them win, and also allegedly paid incentives to Ibarguren, is currently the matter of an investigation by the FAF.

Taldo Lehan               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Sporting Iturributa     38   24   6   8    51   26  +25    78 Champions / Copa de Campeones / Champions League – 24th CC/CL appearance
 2 Iturributa United       38   23   2  13    63   31  +32    71 Champions League – 18th CC/CL appearance
 3 Blue Mountain Range     38   19  11   8    35   19  +16    68 Challengers Cup – 3rd GC/ChC appearance
 4 Urbizania Wanderers     38   17  11  10    48   26  +22    62 Challengers Cup – 25th GC/ChC appearance
 5 Royal Rumiatzi          38   17  10  11    65   47  +18    61 Challengers Cup – 24th GC/ChC appearance
 6 Athletic Club Olarria   38   17  10  11    57   41  +16    61
 7 Ituraitz FC             38   16  12  10    53   55   −2    60
 8 Royal Ibarbe            38   16  11  11    48   31  +17    59
 9 Antiguoko FC            38   17   8  13    57   51   +6    59
10 Sporting Arkamo         38   15  13  10    51   48   +3    58
11 Gortz United            38   16  10  12    51   41  +10    58
12 Bakartirla Buccaneers   38   15  11  12    34   35   −1    56
13 Ituraitz Victory        38   16   4  18    48   55   −7    52
14 Astograth University    38   14   9  15    39   52  −13    51
15 East Railway            38   14   5  19    36   44   −8    47
16 Sporting Ibarguren      38   12   6  20    35   54  −19    42
17 Sporting Olarria        38    7  10  21    36   56  −20    31
18 Royal Arexa             38    7   9  22    33   56  −23    30 ↓ 1-year run
19 Erribe United           38    6   9  23    36   63  −27    27 ↓ 1-year run
20 Ibarbe Sport            38    5   7  26    23   68  −45    22 ↓ 2-year run

CHAMPIONS
SPORTING ITURRIBUTA
7th title

FAF Awards

At the traditional awards ceremony, held at Rumiatzi’s Kraitzaga Theatre once the season is concluded, the Futbol Astograthiko Federazioa presented the following awards, based on First Division performance. Local media consider these highly prestigious, and the definitive acknowledgement of the best in Astograthian football.

Player of the Season:
1.

Ari Hlynursbur (GRF), RM – Sporting Iturributa – 37 appearances, 10 goals
2.

Pristina Shine (EQS), CF – Iturributa United – 38 appearances, 29 goals
3.

Yonatoño de la Garza (FFD), LW – Antiguoko FC – 36 appearances, 17 goals

Young Player of the Season:
1.

Yonatoño de la Garza (FFD), LW, age 20 – Antiguoko FC – 36 appearances, 17 goals
2.

Devlyn Harris (QUE), LB, age 20 – Sporting Iturributa – 33 appearances, 1 goal
3.

Yuaneizu Mendia, RB, age 20 – Sporting Iturributa – 35 appearances

Manager of the Season:
1.

Cheney Bittencourt (NPH) – Sporting Iturributa
2.

Justin Vauxhall (BRE) – Iturributa United
3.

Xander McDrew (TAE) – Blue Mountain Range

Golden Uri for Top Scorer:
29 –

Pristina Shine (EQS), CF – Iturributa United
24 –

Danica Marinkovic (NPH), CF – Royal Rumiatzi
18 –

Tomofumi Ishimoda, CF – Gortz United

Elmsvikur Trophy for Goal of the Season:
1.

Imanol Bethularan – Athletic Club Olarria (A) vs. Sporting Arkamo, MD 18, FT 3–3. Veteran striker Bethularan receives the ball 30 metres from goal, squares up, and rockets a shot into the roof of the net with his second touch.
2.

Kolejes Marajis – Gortz United (H) vs. Sporting Arkamo, MD 7, FT 1–1. A distant free-kick by Marajis that loops away from the goal, then back in at the corner.
3.

Imanol Elgeta – Ibarbe Sport (A) vs. Royal Arexa, MD 2, FT 0–2. Central midfielder Elgeta dribbles on his lonesome down the left wing, dribbles past a challenge from Lizar Kastanklares, and from the edge of the box scores with a shot to the far corner of the net.

Team of the Season:
GK –

Dieje Ibrelaná (FFD) – Urbizania Wanderers – 36 appearances
LB –

Devlyn Harris (QUE) – Sporting Iturributa – 33 appearances, 1 goal
CB –

Azeari Iturria – Blue Mountain Range – 32 appearances, 1 goal
CB –

Thomas Kaberle (STL) – Sporting Iturributa – 35 appearances
RB –

Pernille Lingaard (SVJ) – Sporting Arkamo – 36 appearances
DM –

Arnesa Darroze (NPH) – Iturributa United – 36 appearances, 2 goals
LM –

Yonatoño de la Garza (FFD) – Antiguoko FC – 36 appearances, 17 goals
RM –

Ari Hlynursbur (GRF) – Sporting Iturributa – 37 appearances, 10 goals
AM –

Abarrotz Zumalakarregi – Sporting Iturributa – 35 appearances, 6 goals
CF –

Pristina Shine (EQS) – Iturributa United – 38 appearances, 29 goals
CF –

Danica Marinkovic (NPH) – Royal Rumiatzi – 36 appearances, 24 goals

Name                        Club                    Pos   Nat.  App  Gls
MENAT Gareth                Antiguoko FC            DM    NPH   35    2
GARZA Yonatoño de la        Antiguoko FC            LM    FFD   36   17
CAILLEUX Thierry            Antiguoko FC            RM    HIN   33    3
BALA Rez                    Antiguoko FC            RB    PAS   12    1
BRANDON David               Antiguoko FC            DM    IGR   17    0
GUPTA Raj                   Antiguoko FC            LM    ETN   9     2
REYNE Yaël la               Antiguoko FC            RM    OAM   16    0
COALFIELD Johan             Astograth University    LB    BRE   29    3
MUNUZO Hissho               Astograth University    CB    HIN   36    1
KAOÑAHANI Adaxa             Astograth University    CB    TXA   34    0
SHIRONG Jin                 Astograth University    DM    YZH   36    3
ARENTSSON Guðmann           Astograth University    DM    GRF   36    1
NIFTERIK Damyan             Astograth University    CF    ESH   18    0
MERCADO Iohana              Athletic Club Olarria   RB    ASU   32    2
DOCHERTY Amber              Athletic Club Olarria   RM    KSK   35    2
POTOS Telá                  Athletic Club Olarria   CF    TIO   33   10
DAVIES Declan               Athletic Club Olarria   GK    HVY   10    0
MCJOHNSOM Johnson           Athletic Club Olarria   CB    PFA    9    0
BLACKWOOD Neil              Athletic Club Olarria   RB    CBP    8    0
ASTRO Nacro                 Bakartirla Buccaneers   CB    PFA   33    2
CULLEN Ward                 Bakartirla Buccaneers   RB    NPH   31    2
RADOZEVIC Svetoslav         Bakartirla Buccaneers   DM    MYT   34    2
AZIZ Pia                    Bakartirla Buccaneers   AM    MRT   31    4
PALANI Tehmina              Bakartirla Buccaneers   CF    SRS   37    4
THOMPSEN Rosenthorpe        Bakartirla Buccaneers   CM    CMT   11    1
DESSOUBS-LE-FOUR Paolig     Bakartirla Buccaneers   LM    OAM    6    0
SANTIAGO Santiago           Blue Mountain Range     LB    TAE   33    1
QUICKLEY Aristide           Blue Mountain Range     CB    QAD   33    1
REED Danni                  Blue Mountain Range     RB    QOD   34    0
BREUNIG Benjamin            Blue Mountain Range     DM    SWR   33    1
HARRYSSON Robin             Blue Mountain Range     RM    GRF   35    6
MEE-KYONG Geun              Blue Mountain Range     DM    HIN   11    0
PRINCE Rosalia              Blue Mountain Range     DM    EFL    9    1
CARUSO Armando              Blue Mountain Range     CM    SVG   11    1
ABATANTUONO Jacky           Blue Mountain Range     CF    JUE   20    5
CARTLIDGE James             East Railway            RB    MUR   36    0
MACDONALD Connor            East Railway            DM    KSK   31    1
OHASHIMA Marisa             East Railway            DM    HIN   33    0
DAMANI Sakia                East Railway            LM    CMT   32    6
BARRETT Rachel              East Railway            LB    HAN    7    0
KUTER                       Gortz United            GK    DAI   31    0
DONALDSON Arnold            Gortz United            CB    KHD   33    2
yTISMEWCH Nwdawd            Gortz United            RB    KOR   37    0
MARVINSSON Valtter          Gortz United            DM    GRF   35    1
MARUSIC Borna               Gortz United            CM    MYT   34    1
MORGENSTERN Shiloh          Gortz United            LM    TAE   38    5
MARAJIS Kolejes             Gortz United            RM    FFD   34   16
DASSAULT Adrian             Gortz United            CB    TKT    4    0
BAINS Eddie                 Gortz United            CF    SCT   16    0
CORDER Phoebe               Ituraitz FC             GK    BRE   34    0
ERDEI Ema                   Ituraitz FC             LB    PAS   37    0
SLOAH Mike                  Ituraitz FC             CB    SNL   34    1
KOVACEVIC Amar              Ituraitz FC             CB    MYT   36    2
HOYO Tiburcio               Ituraitz FC             RB    FFD   29    1
SHINRA Puristina            Ituraitz FC             CM    HIN   35    3
CELUSTKA Elsebeth           Ituraitz FC             CM    NPH   33    3
CARPI Modevideo             Ituraitz FC             CF    QUR   34   17
ARMIDA Fernando             Ituraitz FC             GK    STB    8    0
DOWLING-DOCKSON Meir        Ituraitz FC             CF    EFL   13    0
JÍÍ Mâánéràtö               Ituraitz FC             CF    FFD   16    0
KINDVANEVAN Augustijn       Ituraitz Victory        GK    TSA   30    0
GAROFANO Mastino            Ituraitz Victory        LB    SVG   30    0
SCHAEFER Eleanor            Ituraitz Victory        RB    NPH   37    0
MONTREAUX Habette           Ituraitz Victory        LM    HIN   31    3
PLUMB Sulpizio              Ituraitz Victory        CF    MRT   37    9
NUN Intov-Gelan             Ituraitz Victory        DM    QUS   14    0
AGUIAR Victor               Iturributa United       GK    CBZ   34    0
DOHERTY Isaac               Iturributa United       LB    EUR   33    0
TOIVANEN Janne              Iturributa United       CB    SVJ   30    2
RIVERS Alex                 Iturributa United       CB    KRY   34    3
AIGUO Zhu                   Iturributa United       RB    YZH   34    1
DARROZE Arnesa              Iturributa United       DM    NPH   36    2
DESPOTOVIC Boza             Iturributa United       DM    MYT   32    0
PIKOLAUGH Fangti            Iturributa United       LM    CMT   35    7
ARDOUIN Alexis              Iturributa United       CF    VLD   38    5
SHINE Pristina              Iturributa United       CF    EQS   38   29
JAGIDAR Palla               Iturributa United       LB    SRS    8    1
BRIGHT Lukas                Iturributa United       CF    BRE   15    3
APOSTOLOV Nikita            Iturributa United       CF    MYT   13    0
WAHL Barto                  Royal Arexa             GK    ZRH   36    0
LYLAC Basil                 Royal Arexa             CM    NPH   34    2
COMPTON Minerva             Royal Ibarbe            LB    KOR   31    1
ZINKOVSKY Kamil             Royal Ibarbe            CB    MYT   35    0
UBBISDÓTTIR Malin           Royal Ibarbe            CB    GRF   32    0
PYRITE Younis               Royal Ibarbe            DM    ISK   35    0
CHARDIN Tier                Royal Ibarbe            DM    KOR   29    3
LERUOSE Osfral              Royal Ibarbe            LM    TIO   35    5
REASON Guy                  Royal Ibarbe            AM    FFD   36    3
LUCERO Robert               Royal Ibarbe            CF    TKT   36   16
EXAIMAHE Huatxehai          Royal Ibarbe            CB    TXA   11    0
FAUMONT Silbane de          Royal Ibarbe            RM    MRT    4    1
MATHENY Konrad              Royal Rumiatzi          GK    NPH   32    0
EXIHOSAHAR Loxjilo          Royal Rumiatzi          LB    FFD   34    2
FITZ Patrick                Royal Rumiatzi          CB    BRE   34    1
DONAT Martí                 Royal Rumiatzi          CB    TEQ   33    3
SAINT-PIERRE Victoire De    Royal Rumiatzi          RB    CMT   33    1
ENSAUNDEN Kherles           Royal Rumiatzi          LM    KOR   36    5
SHAVER Renee                Royal Rumiatzi          RM    CDG   32    8
MARINKOVIC Danica           Royal Rumiatzi          CF    NPH   36   24
KARAISKAKIS Petrarch        Royal Rumiatzi          LM    NPH   10    0
ROMINEVSKIY Davidov         Royal Rumiatzi          CM    TWI    9    1
YONG Zhao                   Sporting Arkamo         GK    YZH   36    0
LINGAARD Pernille           Sporting Arkamo         RB    SVJ   36    0
ESTEBAN Ivor                Sporting Arkamo         CM    GTK   37    6
RUIZ Jeremiah               Sporting Arkamo         CM    ETN   31    1
KABERLE Lino                Sporting Iturributa     GK    STL   33    0
HARRIS Devlyn               Sporting Iturributa     LB    QUE   33    1
KABERLE Thomas              Sporting Iturributa     CB    STL   35    0
RAUCH Ferena                Sporting Iturributa     DM    NPH   37    0
HENSSER Arysa               Sporting Iturributa     DM    NPH   35    1
ROBERTS Trent               Sporting Iturributa     LM    EUR   33    8
HLYNURSBUR Ari              Sporting Iturributa     RM    GRF   37   10
CASTANEDA Evangelino Pulido Sporting Iturributa     CF    PAS   36   14
KIICHI Ohashi               Sporting Iturributa     LM    SQR   15    3
NIFORRO Lumugue             Sporting Iturributa     AM    TIO   12    2
BRUNO Marco                 Sporting Iturributa     CF    QAD   13    1
NAPOLEONI Panfilo           Sporting Olarria        DM    JUE   36    1
PINNOCK Ombre               Sporting Olarria        CM    BRE   35    3
IBRELANÁ Dieje              Urbizania Wanderers     GK    FFD   36    0
PALOMER Roman               Urbizania Wanderers     LB    SVG   34    0
LYNCH Kara                  Urbizania Wanderers     CB    TLI   35    2
MARKUS Eloise               Urbizania Wanderers     RB    NPH   37    0
HIRAHITO Yoshimi            Urbizania Wanderers     DM    TAE   32    1
DURMISI Alexis              Urbizania Wanderers     LM    VLD   33    4
ABRIGO Andrés               Urbizania Wanderers     RM    VLD   34    7
MANN Julian                 Urbizania Wanderers     AM    EUR   34    8
IRVING Brandon              Urbizania Wanderers     CF    SNL   37   15

Second Division

Echegoyan FC have met expectations following last season’s shock relegation, and blitzed their way straight back to the First Division in more than convincing fashion. What was less expected was Athletic Club Rumiatzi’s turnaround, as their relegation was more of the disastrous kind. Nevertheless, they will also be back after just one season. The third promoted side will not be Urizaharra FC, who for the second season in a row have finished 3rd in the league but lost in the promotion playoffs. This time they at least reached the final, against Old City Central, who lost last year’s promotion final against Erribe United. Central were looking forward to battling rivals Royal Arexa in the First Division, but will have to make do with the satisfaction that they have gone up and their rivals down.

Taldo Biharran             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Echegoyan FC             46   31   9   6   100   54  +46   102 ↑ Champions / Liga B Champions Trophy – return after 1 year, 3rd SBCC/LBCT appearance
 2 Athletic Club Rumiatzi   46   27   8  11    85   60  +25    89 ↑ Liga B Champions Trophy – return after 1 year, 6th SBCC/LBCT appearance
 3 Urizaharra FC            46   24   8  14    84   56  +28    80 Liga B Champions Trophy – 8th SBCC/LBCT appearance
 4 Miners FC                46   23   8  15    51   38  +13    77
 5 Old City Central         46   23   7  16    58   48  +10    76 ↑ return after 4 years
 6 Ezkutia MFC              46   21  11  14    51   45   +6    74
 7 Oyardo FC                46   21   8  17    68   64   +4    71
 8 Urbitzo FC               46   17  19  10    68   43  +25    70
 9 Eagles FC                46   21   6  19    51   49   +2    69
10 Iturributa Racing Club   46   17  17  12    61   52   +9    68
11 Uidio Mariners           46   19  10  17    52   48   +4    67
12 Ximun Orieta FC          46   18  12  16    66   45  +21    66
13 Garitzeta Racing Club    46   17  11  18    49   56   −7    62
14 Garitzeta FC             46   15  17  14    55   57   −2    62
15 Nabarrieta FC            46   16  12  18    53   55   −2    60
16 Gesterlake FC            46   16  10  20    63   63    0    58
17 Rumiatzi 529             46   13  11  22    53   64  −11    50
18 Uzio Blackstar           46   13  11  22    50   72  −22    50
19 San Markez               46   13   9  24    42   65  −23    48
20 Basabe Old Boys          46   12  12  22    46   64  −18    48
21 Tzaramaga Rovers         46   12  11  23    35   63  −28    47 ↓ 1-year run out of Second Division B
22 Fort Saint Oskia         46   12   9  25    36   60  −24    45 ↓ 1-year run
23 Bizkarra Castle          46   10  15  21    45   69  −24    45 ↓ 2-year run
24 Cafundelense             46   12   7  27    41   73  −32    43 ↓ 2-year run

Promotion Playoffs

Semifinals
Ezkutia MFC 1–1 Urizaharra FC
Old City Central 1–1 Miners FC

Urizaharra FC 1–0 Ezkutia MFC (2–1 agg.)
Miners FC 1–1 Old City Central (2–2 AET, 3–3 agg., 2–3 pen.)

Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Old City Central 2–1 Urizaharra FC

Second Division B

The Second Division B season leaves many firsts: three teams – Ermarretza United, Baker’s Eleven, and champions Ezkalmendia – will be promoted to the Second Division for the very first time, while Army United defy the odds to jump straight back up after a season in the third tier. At the other end, Biazterri and Aliantza have suffered relegation out of the Football League for the first time, and will be wondering not when they will return but if. For Ibarbe Youth, relegation into the wilderness is a hard blow when local rivals Royal Ibarbe and Ibarbe Sport are competing in the top flight. For Izarloka FC, erstwhile First Division material themselves, another relgation threatens their very existence.

Taldo Biharran B East     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Ezkalmendia FC          46   24  10  12    59   43  +16    82 ↑ Champions - will début in the Second Division
 2 Baker's Eleven          46   23  12  11    62   31  +31    81 ↑ will début in the Second Division
 3 Mars Athletic           46   22  11  13    57   39  +18    77
 4 Uertza Gymnastic        46   20  15  11    58   48  +10    75
 5 Dockyard Oaks           46   21  11  14    64   42  +22    74
 6 Royal Association       46   21  10  15    64   46  +18    73
 7 Basabe Youth            46   19  11  16    61   55   +6    68
 8 Landaluz Casuals        46   19  10  17    63   64   −1    67
 9 Lermendia FC            46   17  16  13    55   53   +2    67
10 Akialden Marauders      46   20   7  19    43   44   −1    67
11 Ariznabarra Castle      46   17  15  14    44   44    0    66
12 Chabeitzio FC           46   16  16  14    53   43  +10    64
13 Arbetsana Crossing      46   18  10  18    56   64   −8    64
14 Galarra Youth           46   18  10  18    61   53   +8    64
15 Iratza Fury             46   17  13  16    49   50   −1    64
16 United of Langaraitz    46   18   9  19    59   53   +6    63
17 Ituyo 600               46   18   9  19    50   55   −5    63
18 Freedom FC              46   17   7  22    47   55   −8    58
19 Berlasko FC             46   15  12  19    51   58   −7    57
20 Gudea Sword Club        46   15   9  22    58   74  −16    54
21 Bipagoun Town           46   13  10  23    45   70  −25    49 ↓ 2-year run in the Football League
22 Warrior Spirits         46   13   8  25    44   69  −25    47 ↓ 1-year run
23 Biazterri FC            46   12   8  26    47   71  −24    44 ↓ first relegation from the Football League
24 Izarloka FC             46    8  13  25    44   70  −26    37 ↓ 2-year run

West Group

Taldo Biharran B West     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Ermarretza United       46   27  12   7    60   24  +36    93 ↑ will début in the Second Division
 2 Army United             46   27   6  13    66   43  +23    87 ↑ return after 1 year
 3 Gortz Academy           46   22  12  12    54   34  +20    78
 4 Ichapeldun Mariners     46   21  14  11    54   41  +13    77
 5 Chopbiren FC            46   22  10  14    50   40  +10    76
 6 FAS SC                  46   19  16  11    75   52  +23    73
 7 Amanka FC               46   19  10  17    49   42   +7    67
 8 Progress Athletic       46   19  10  17    51   48   +3    67
 9 South Factory           46   19   9  18    51   43   +8    66
10 Goyardeliz United       46   17  14  15    42   44   −2    65
11 Orontzo United          46   18   9  19    41   46   −5    63
12 Leizaran River          46   17  11  18    41   50   −9    62
13 Okerruri FC             46   16  13  17    46   51   −5    61
14 Sporting Igerreitio     46   16  13  17    49   55   −6    61
15 Muitago Union           46   16  11  19    48   60  −12    59
16 Blue Star               46   15  12  19    42   52  −10    57
17 Otzokonda FC            46   16   9  21    60   67   −7    57
18 Satzueta Alliance       46   14  14  18    44   52   −8    56
19 Phoenix Athletic        46   15  10  21    44   51   −7    55
20 Long Beach Navigators   46   13  15  18    50   61  −11    54
21 FK Aliantza             46   14  11  21    56   65   −9    53 ↓ first relegation from the Football League
22 Akarregi Leisure        46   12  11  23    39   60  −21    47 ↓ 4-year run in the Football League
23 Markina Whitewater      46   12   8  26    45   64  −19    44 ↓ 1-year run
24 Ibarbe Youth            46   10  12  24    41   53  −12    42 ↓ 15-year run

Championship Final – East vs. West
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Ezkalmendia FC 0–0 Ermarretza United (0–0 AET) (5–4 pen.)

Promotion Playoffs
Gortz Academy 1–1 Baker's Eleven
Mars Athletic 2–3 Army United

Baker's Eleven 4–1 Gortz Academy (5–2 agg.)
Army United 2–1 Mars Athletic (5–3 agg.)

Astograthian Development League – Honours Division

The Astograthian Development League, a joint FAF-Ministry of Sport venture, pits U21 teams across the nation in round-robin action.

Honours Division          Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Urbizania Wanderers     30   18   4   8    42   25  +17    58 Champions / Rising Stars Cup – 6th YC/RSC appearance
 2 Gesterlake FC           30   16   7   7    38   17  +21    55
 3 Sporting Iturributa     30   16   6   8    31   20  +11    54
 4 Iturributa United       30   16   5   9    51   40  +11    53
 5 Royal Rumiatzi          30   14   7   9    53   39  +14    49
 6 Echegoyan FC            30   13   8   9    39   41   −2    47
 7 Blue Mountain Range     30   12  10   8    22   17   +5    46
 8 Ituraitz FC             30   12   8  10    45   36   +9    44
 9 Astograth University    30   12   6  12    26   24   +2    42
10 Bakartirla Buccaneers   30   11   4  15    32   36   −4    37
11 Royal Association       30   10   4  16    40   58  −18    34
12 South Factory           30    8   8  14    31   40   −9    32
13 Oyardo FC               30    9   5  16    27   46  −19    32
14 Royal Ibarbe            30    8   7  15    22   33  −11    31
15 Garitzeta FC            30    8   5  17    32   45  −13    29 ↓
16 Ituraitz Victory        30    7   6  17    24   38  −14    27 ↓

Promoted: Miners FC, Basabe Old Boys

The Royal Cup

One-legged ties. First and Second Division teams enter at the Round of 64, and the former are seeded for that and the following round. If clubs have a two-tier difference or greater, the lower-tier team will play at home.

Round of 64 (select matches)
Royal Ibarbe 1–2 Gesterlake FC
Sporting Igerreitio 1–4 Royal Rumiatzi
Progress Athletic 1–1 East Railway (1–2 AET)
Cafundelense 1–2 Erribe United
Ezkutia MFC 2–0 Sporting Olarria
Echegoyan FC 3–4 Blue Mountain Range
Amanka FC 0–1 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Warrior Spirits 0–1 Urbizania Wanderers
Lermendia FC 1–4 Royal Arexa
Gortz United 2–1 Ximun Orieta FC
Antiguoko FC 3–1 Fort Saint Oskia
Tzaramaga Rovers 0–3 Astograth University
Garitzeta Racing Club 3–2 Ituraitz Victory
Uertza Gymnastic 0–2 Sporting Iturributa
Rumiatzi 529 0–1 Sporting Arkamo
Uidio Mariners 2–2 Ituraitz FC (2–3 AET)
Sporting Ibarguren 3–2 Bizkarra Castle
Ibarbe Sport 2–1 Garitzeta FC
Athletic Club Rumiatzi 0–3 Athletic Club Olarria
Ituyo 600 0–4 Iturributa United

Every Royal Cup has its upsets in the early rounds, but this year there remarkably few slip-ups among the First Division contingent. The second-tier Gesterlake, Ezkutia, Garitzeta Racing defeated Royal Ibarbe, Sporting Olarria, and Ituraitz Victory respectively, though these were relatively even matchups compared to the non-league sides that sometimes eliminate top flight teams. East Railway did almost suffer that fate, as they were taken to extra time on their visit to the also Rumiatzi-based Progress Athletic, from the third tier. Only a goal by James Cartlidge that got them through to the Round of 32.

Round of 32
Akialden Marauders 1–0 Royal Rumiatzi
San Markez 0–0 Sporting Iturributa (0–1 AET)
Gesterlake FC 0–1 Urbizania Wanderers
Royal Association 1–0 East Railway
Leizaran River 0–0 Sporting Arkamo (0–2 AET)
Nabarrieta FC 0–1 Blue Mountain Range
Bakartirla Buccaneers 3–0 Basabe Old Boys
Dockyard Oaks 0–1 Royal Arexa
Astograth University 1–1 Miners FC (2–1 AET)
Sporting Ibarguren 2–0 Ezkutia MFC
Antiguoko FC 3–1 Garitzeta Racing Club
Iturributa United 1–0 Uzio Blackstar
Ituraitz FC 3–1 Old City Central
Chopbiren FC 0–0 Ibarbe Sport (0–1 AET)
Iturributa Racing Club 1–1 Erribe United (3–1 AET)
Athletic Club Olarria 4–2 Gortz United

If the Round of 64 was holding back with the upsets, the Round of 32 did not disappoint. Royal Rumiatzi were left with egg on their face on their visit to the third-tier Akialden Marauders – elimination was a significant setback to new manager Obeko Mundutegi and an early crisis point of his tenure. His former club East Railway were also embarrassed by a Second Division B, the historic Royal Association. Erribe United, who replaced Iturributa Racing in the First Division this season, allowed 2 goals in extra time against them and were knocked out as well. Sporting Iturributa were forced to bring on the big guns against San Markez, as it took a goal from Abarrotz Zumalakarregi in extra-time to advance. The biggest match of the round was the regional derby played in Olarria, where Athletic Olarria and Gortz United faced each other in the only clash between top-flight teams. Although Eddie Bains and Kolejes Marajis pulled Gortz level after an Aingeru Edera brace, further goals by Amber Docherty and Telá Potos set off celebrations for the home side.

Round of 16
Iturributa Racing Club 0–3 Athletic Club Olarria
Sporting Ibarguren 1–1 Ibarbe Sport (1–2 AET)
Bakartirla Buccaneers 0–0 Astograth University (0–0 AET) (3–1 pen.)
Urbizania Wanderers 2–1 Sporting Arkamo
Royal Association 1–0 Antiguoko FC
Blue Mountain Range 1–1 Iturributa United (2–3 AET)
Akialden Marauders 0–1 Sporting Iturributa
Ituraitz FC 2–1 Royal Arexa

The Round of 32 narrowed the field to all First Division teams, plus one Second Division team… and two sides from the third tier. It was reasonable to expect they wouldn’t survive the Round of 16, but Sporting Iturributa did not have an easy time dispatching Akialden Marauders. Royal Association, meanwhile, defied the odds to beat Antiguoko and advance on to the quarterfinals. Elsewhere, an extra-time goal by starlet Eguzki Kirion gave Ibarbe Sport the win over Sporting Ibarguren; Bakartirla Buccaneers young goalkeeper Edur Yraola crowned himself a hero in the penalty shootout against Astograth University; Brandon Irving scored the winner for Urbizania Wanderers against Sporting Arkamo; Aingeru Edera continued his scoring streak for Athletic Olarria; and Ituraitz FC’s Ortze Ohets and Peyo Isamendi combined twice to beat Royal Arexa. The big tie of the round was Sporting Iturributa’s visit to Blue Mountain Range. In an uncharacteristically thrilling bout between the two defensively-focused teams, they drew 1–1 in normal time with goals by two Græntfjallers: Robin Harrysson for BMR and Ari Hlynursbur for Sporting. In extra-time, both teams against scored, first Sporting’s Trent Roberts and then BMR’s Benjamin Breunig, only for Hlynursbur to appear near the end with a curling shot and secure the final 3–2 victory for Sporting Iturributa.

Quarterfinals
Athletic Club Olarria 1–3 Ituraitz FC
Bakartirla Buccaneers 0–1 Sporting Iturributa
Urbizania Wanderers 1–0 Ibarbe Sport
Royal Association 2–3 Iturributa United

The draw for the quarterfinals did not pair together any of the four historical greats still in competition; if not for the evidence of many prior editions, one could think there were a few temperature-related shenanigans going on with the FAF’s sorting balls. Trent Roberts scored for Sporting Iturributa to eliminate Bakartirla Buccaneers, as did substitute Bixincho Olate for Urbizania Wanderers against Ibarbe Sport. Ituraitz FC had the toughest draw, coming up against regional rivals Athletic Olarria. On paper, Olarria were the favourites; on the pitch, it was Ituraitz who played with the swagger of a club that’s won 6 Royal Cups against Olarria’s none. A brace by Modevideo Carpi, capped with a goal from Farf left-back Tiburcio Hoyo, blew away Telá Potos’ opener. In Iturributa, United played local rivals Royal Association, who were once First Division regulars but have fallen all the way to the third tier. Association caught United off guard, playing a high-energy match that repeatedly drew level. With the match at 2–2, it was United’s new signing Alexis Ardouin who sidestepped the defence and finally ended Royal Association’s run in this Royal Cup.

Semifinals
Ituraitz FC 4–1 Sporting Iturributa
Urbizania Wanderers 2–1 Iturributa United

The semifinals featured four of the biggest teams in Astograth – an uncommon circumstance, all in all. With Iturributa United and Sporting Iturributa drawn into separate ties, pundits fantasised with an Iturributan Derby in the final, a spectacular match to settle the seething tension between the two teams that have dominated Astograthian football over the last three seasons. Instead they got Ituraitz FC running roughshod over the eventual First Division winners, Sporting Iturributa, thanks in part to manager Mikel Aluztiza’s intimate knowledge of his former squad and partly to another set of inspired performances from Ortze Ohets and Modevideo Carpi. In the other tie, Urbizania Wanderers’ midfield dismantled Iturributa United, scored two early goals through Andrés Abrigo and Brandon Irving, and defended their lead to the end of full-time. A late goal by Perucho Unda gave United the hope of a comeback, but it never materialised; the final would feature not the Iturributan rivalry, but that between Astograth’s two world champion clubs: Ituraitz FC and Urbizania Wanderers.

The Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi

Urbizania Wanderers and Ituraitz FC have met twice in national finals: at the 658 Royal Cup and the 673 National Championship, which heralded the refounding of the First Division. Both were won by Wanderers, though the circumstances of each could not have been more different. The first pitted two of the greatest Astograthian squads of all time and was marked by the transcendent talent of Laborious Hawk, with goals from Risko Kâí and Iivari Kaitanen to win 2–0. The second, played over two legs, came at the end of a 12-year dark era for Astograthian football; Andoni Bidigain, former national team player and club world champion with 1896 Ebor, scored the aggregate winner for Wanderers at the Ituraitz Sporting Ground. The rivalry between Wanderers and Ituraitz is one of the better-natured ones in Astograth, and on that occasion both teams celebrated together the re-establishment of national professional football in the country.

18 years later, such good will is in more limited supply. Ituraitz have gone 14 of those years without winning anything, with a couple of existential crises thrown in for good measure. Wanderers have one of the most talented and expensive squads in the league with nothing to show for it, and are unsure whether sacking Eriz Bakaikoa would be the key to success or simply shooting themselves in the foot – perhaps as badly as Ituraitz did with Bob Partridge.

On the day of, Wanderers took an early lead via winger Andrés Abrigo, who surprised Ituraitz on a corner kick with just 3 minutes elapsed. Their lead was doubled in the 16th minute thanks to a placed shot by Euran no. 10 Julian Man. After that, Bakaikoa deployed his tried-and-true method of midfield domination, denying Ituraitz the ball in order to hold out for the entire remainder of the match. The result was not pretty, but it was effective: Yoshimi Hirahito, Ekain Dirube, and Kara Lynch passing the ball back and forth, and back and forth, and back and forth, through and around hapless Ituraitz players. When the Reds did manage to get the ball, Wanderers was packed so deep and dense that getting the ball into the box was a formidable challenge. Ituraitz’s manager, Mikel Aluztiza, formerly of Sporting Iturributa, knows a thing or two about defensive football, but breaking this particular lock required players he didn’t have. He attempted the unorthodox, with such stratagems as sending on Farf striker Mâánéràtö Jíí (still to record a single career goal or assist); they failed to turn the tide.

Captain Dieje Ibrelaná received the Royal Cup from the hands of Grand Duke Gaxan and led the celebrations of Urbizania Wanderers’ 8th national cup. A Just reward for their efforts of the last years, retribution for last season’s defeat to Blue Mountain Range, and perhaps enough to extend Eriz Bakaikoa’s time at the club. For Ituraitz, purgatory is prolonged.

Ituraitz FC 0–2 Urbizania Wanderers

CHAMPIONS
URBIZANIA WANDERERS
8th title

Astograth (ASG) qualifiers
Champions League: Sporting Iturributa, Iturributa United
Challengers Cup: Blue Mountain Range, Urbizania Wanderers, Royal Rumiatzi
Liga B Champions Trophy: Echegoyan FC, Athletic Club Rumiatzi, Urizaharra FC
Rising Stars Cup: Urbizania Wanderers
Cup Winners’ Cup: Urbizania Wanderers

Copa de Campeones: Sporting Iturributa

by **Astograth** » Sat Sep 03, 2022 1:53 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 692 Review

The 47th season of the Astograthian Football League is now concluded.

First Division

Taldo Lehan                Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Iturributa United        38   27   4   7    78   29  +49    85 Champions / Copa de Campeones / Champions League
 2 Sporting Iturributa      38   21  12   5    62   24  +38    75 Champions League
 3 Blue Mountain Range      38   20  10   8    38   21  +17    70 Challengers Cup
 4 Urbizania Wanderers      38   21   6  11    48   37  +11    69 Challengers Cup
 5 Royal Ibarbe             38   20   7  11    49   33  +16    67 Challengers Cup
 6 Royal Rumiatzi           38   20   7  11    53   38  +15    67
 7 Gortz United             38   19   8  11    49   34  +15    65
 8 Athletic Club Olarria    38   15   9  14    48   53   −5    54
 9 Echegoyan FC             38   15   5  18    43   58  −15    50
10 Astograth University     38   12  12  14    41   35   +6    48
11 Sporting Arkamo          38   11  15  12    50   53   −3    48
12 Ituraitz FC              38   13   7  18    60   55   +5    46
13 East Railway             38   12   9  17    38   48  −10    45
14 Bakartirla Buccaneers    38   13   5  20    44   49   −5    44
15 Athletic Club Rumiatzi   38   13   4  21    52   71  −19    43
16 Ituraitz Victory         38   10  12  16    41   60  −19    42
17 Antiguoko FC             38    9  12  17    40   48   −8    39
18 Sporting Olarria         38    9   9  20    27   46  −19    36 ↓ 3-year run
19 Sporting Ibarguren       38    9   9  20    36   60  −24    36 ↓ 2-year run
20 Old City Central         38    5  10  23    27   72  −45    25 ↓ 1-year run

CHAMPIONS
ITURRIBUTA UNITED
7th title

Second Division

Taldo Biharran             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Oyardo FC                46   24  14   8    71   53  +18    86 ↑ Champions / Liga B Champions Trophy
 2 Urbitzo FC               46   24  11  11    69   45  +24    83 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 3 Iturributa Racing Club   46   23  11  12    55   35  +20    80 Liga B Champions Trophy
 4 Ibarbe Sport             46   23  10  13    69   51  +18    79
 5 Urizaharra FC            46   22  10  14    78   52  +26    76 ↑ Promoted
 6 Ximun Orieta FC          46   20  13  13    56   45  +11    73
 7 Uidio Mariners           46   20  12  14    58   55   +3    72
 8 Royal Arexa              46   21   7  18    75   69   +6    70
 9 Miners FC                46   19  12  15    45   39   +6    69
10 Garitzeta FC             46   18  13  15    49   54   −5    67
11 Nabarrieta FC            46   17  15  14    62   47  +15    66
12 Ezkutia MFC              46   17  15  14    52   43   +9    66
13 Erribe United            46   18  11  17    56   50   +6    65
14 Garitzeta Racing Club    46   16  12  18    46   49   −3    60
15 Eagles FC                46   14  15  17    51   55   −4    57
16 Uzio Blackstar           46   14  13  19    40   48   −8    55
17 Ermarretza United        46   16   7  23    46   62  −16    55
18 Baker's Eleven           46   14  11  21    45   50   −5    53
19 Rumiatzi 529             46   14  11  21    40   61  −21    53
20 Gesterlake FC            46   14  10  22    59   74  −15    52
21 Ezkalmendia FC           46   13  11  22    40   59  −19    50 ↓ Relegated
22 Army United              46   13  10  23    52   67  −15    49 ↓ Relegated
23 Basabe Old Boys          46   12   9  25    39   66  −27    45 ↓ Relegated
24 San Markez               46    8  13  25    37   61  −24    37 ↓ Relegated

Promotion Playoffs

Semifinals
Ximun Orieta FC 1–0 Iturributa Racing Club
Urizaharra FC 2–0 Ibarbe Sport

Iturributa Racing Club 3–1 Ximun Orieta FC (3–2 agg.)
Ibarbe Sport 4–2 Urizaharra FC (4–3 AET, 4–5 agg.)

Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Iturributa Racing Club 0–2 Urizaharra FC

Second Division B
East Group

Taldo Biharran B East     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Cafundelense            46   25   8  13    66   48  +18    83 ↑ Champions / Promoted
 2 Lermendia FC            46   23  12  11    81   49  +32    81 ↑ Promoted
 3 Uraldea Shipyard        46   22  14  10    68   46  +22    80
 4 Basabe Youth            46   22  12  12    64   45  +19    78
 5 Galarra Youth           46   21  10  15    49   43   +6    73
 6 Mars Athletic           46   22   6  18    48   44   +4    72
 7 Iratza Fury             46   18  15  13    50   49   +1    69
 8 Uertza Gymnastic        46   18  14  14    57   43  +14    68
 9 Ariznabarra Castle      46   18  13  15    53   43  +10    67
10 Chabeitzio FC           46   17  16  13    53   51   +2    67
11 Dockyard Oaks           46   17  14  15    55   44  +11    65
12 Landaluz Casuals        46   18  11  17    49   55   −6    65
13 Arbetsana Crossing      46   17  13  16    43   54  −11    64
14 Royal Association       46   17  12  17    51   43   +8    63
15 United of Langaraitz    46   17  10  19    58   55   +3    61
16 Letzama University      46   15  13  18    39   47   −8    58
17 Riverside Athletic      46   16   9  21    52   54   −2    57
18 Freedom FC              46   15  12  19    49   53   −4    57
19 Focus FC                46   14  12  20    40   46   −6    54
20 Gudea Sword Club        46   14  12  20    44   60  −16    54
21 Berlasko FC             46   13   9  24    43   65  −22    48 ↓ Relegated
22 Ituyo 600               46   12  10  24    46   70  −24    46 ↓ Relegated
23 Arbera Vanguard         46    9  17  20    37   61  −24    44 ↓ Relegated
24 Akialden Marauders      46   10  10  26    44   71  −27    40 ↓ Relegated

West Group

   Taldo Biharran B West   Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Amanka FC                46   27   8  11    75   45  +30    89 ↑ Promoted
 2 Chopbiren FC             46   24   8  14    68   50  +18    80 ↑ Promoted
 3 Bizkarra Castle          46   24   8  14    65   43  +22    80
 4 Ichapeldun Mariners      46   21  13  12    51   33  +18    76
 5 Progress Athletic        46   22   9  15    61   59   +2    75
 6 Gortz Academy            46   21   9  16    65   56   +9    72
 7 Argos Olarria            46   22   6  18    63   57   +6    72
 8 FAS SC                   46   19  15  12    56   48   +8    72
 9 Okerruri FC              46   20   9  17    53   50   +3    69
10 Fort Saint Oskia         46   19  11  16    58   42  +16    68
11 Phoenix Athletic         46   18  14  14    45   34  +11    68
12 South Factory            46   17  13  16    50   38  +12    64
13 Muitago Union            46   17  12  17    46   46    0    63
14 Benasperri Independent   46   17   8  21    43   58  −15    59
15 Orontzo United           46   15  13  18    42   45   −3    58
16 Leizaran River           46   17   7  22    43   55  −12    58
17 Tzaramaga Rovers         46   14  15  17    52   51   +1    57
18 Duronio Riverside        46   15  11  20    40   55  −15    56
19 Goyardeliz United        46   15  11  20    48   64  −16    56
20 Satzueta Alliance        46   12  14  20    43   51   −8    50
21 Blue Star                46   13  11  22    39   65  −26    50 ↓ Relegated
22 Sporting Igerreitio      46   13   9  24    45   59  −14    48 ↓ Relegated
23 Otzokonda FC             46   12  10  24    39   58  −19    46 ↓ Relegated
24 Long Beach Navigators    46   11  10  25    34   62  −28    43 ↓ Relegated

Championship Final – East vs. West
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Amanka FC 0–1 Cafundelense

Promotion Playoffs
Bizkarra Castle 1–1 Lermendia FC
Uraldea Shipyard 1–2 Chopbiren FC

Lermendia FC 1–0 Bizkarra Castle (2–1 agg.)
Chopbiren FC 1–0 Uraldea Shipyard (3–1 agg.)

The Royal Cup

One-legged ties. First and Second Division teams enter at the Round of 64, and the former are seeded for that and the following round. If clubs have a two-tier difference or greater, the lower-tier team will play at home.

Round of 64 (select matches)
Royal Ibarbe 2–0 Garitzeta Racing Club
Sporting Iturributa 1–0 Baker's Eleven
Old City Central 1–0 Garitzeta FC
Miners FC 0–2 Royal Rumiatzi
Progress Athletic 2–1 Athletic Club Olarria
Antiguoko FC 2–0 San Markez
Akialden Marauders 1–4 East Railway
Ituraitz FC 2–0 Rumiatzi 529
Iratza Fury 0–1 Athletic Club Rumiatzi
Basabe Youth 2–1 Urbizania Wanderers
Sporting Ibarguren 2–0 Urbitzo FC
Blue Mountain Range 1–0 Royal Arexa
Ximun Orieta FC 2–1 Astograth University
Urizaharra FC 1–1 Echegoyan FC (3–1 AET)
Ibarbe Sport 0–2 Gortz United
Sporting Arkamo 3–2 Iturributa Racing Club
United of Langaraitz 0–2 Iturributa United
Goyardeliz United 2–2 Ituraitz Victory (2–2 AET) (4–5 pen.)
Sporting Olarria 3–2 Army United
Bakartirla Buccaneers 0–1 Ermarretza United

Round of 32
Arbetsana Crossing 1–2 Gortz United
Muitago Union 1–1 Athletic Club Rumiatzi (2–1 AET)
Ximun Orieta FC 1–0 Sporting Iturributa
Landaluz Casuals 0–2 Sporting Olarria
South Factory 2–0 Royal Ibarbe
Lermendia FC 2–2 Ituraitz FC (2–2 AET) (3–0 pen.)
Berlasko FC 1–0 Old City Central
Ezkutia MFC 1–2 Sporting Ibarguren
Basabe Youth 2–3 Royal Rumiatzi
Progress Athletic 0–3 East Railway
Ermarretza United 1–1 Antiguoko FC (1–1 AET) (4–5 pen.)
Uidio Mariners 1–1 Sporting Arkamo (2–2 AET) (1–2 pen.)
Iturributa United 2–0 Gesterlake FC
Ituraitz Victory 1–2 Urizaharra FC
Nabarrieta FC 0–1 Blue Mountain Range
Oyardo FC 3–1 Basabe Old Boys

Round of 16
Blue Mountain Range 2–0 Sporting Olarria
Oyardo FC 0–0 Urizaharra FC (1–0 AET)
Lermendia FC 0–2 Royal Rumiatzi
Berlasko FC 0–3 Sporting Arkamo
Ximun Orieta FC 0–2 Gortz United
Iturributa United 4–1 Antiguoko FC
Muitago Union 0–2 Sporting Ibarguren
South Factory 0–4 East Railway

Quarterfinals
Sporting Arkamo 4–0 Oyardo FC
Sporting Ibarguren 1–4 Blue Mountain Range
East Railway 0–1 Gortz United
Iturributa United 2–2 Royal Rumiatzi (3–2 AET)

Semifinals
Sporting Arkamo 3–0 Gortz United
Iturributa United 2–0 Blue Mountain Range

The Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi

Iturributa United 1–5 Sporting Arkamo

CHAMPIONS
SPORTING ARKAMO
1st title

Astograth (ASG) qualifiers
Champions League: Iturributa United, Sporting Iturributa
Challengers Cup: Blue Mountain Range, Urbizania Wanderers, Royal Ibarbe
Liga B Champions Trophy: Oyardo FC, Urbitzo FC, Iturributa Racing Club
Cup Winners’ Cup: Sporting Arkamo

Copa de Campeones: Iturributa United

by **Astograth** » Tue Dec 06, 2022 6:09 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 693 Review

The 48th season of the Astograthian Football League is now concluded.

Taldo Lehan                Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Iturributa United        38   24   5   9    67   39  +28    77 Champions / Copa de Campeones / Champions League
 2 Sporting Iturributa      38   23   7   8    51   25  +26    76 Champions League
 3 Urbizania Wanderers      38   22  10   6    55   25  +30    76 Challengers Cup
 4 Gortz United             38   21   8   9    57   33  +24    71 Challengers Cup
 5 Blue Mountain Range      38   20   7  11    39   20  +19    67 Challengers Cup
 6 Royal Rumiatzi           38   18   9  11    59   40  +19    63
 7 Royal Ibarbe             38   17  11  10    51   38  +13    62
 8 Ituraitz Victory         38   16   9  13    53   50   +3    57
 9 Sporting Arkamo          38   16   9  13    51   43   +8    57
10 Athletic Club Olarria    38   15   8  15    52   41  +11    53
11 Antiguoko FC             38   15   6  17    45   56  −11    51
12 Bakartirla Buccaneers    38   15   5  18    49   62  −13    50
13 East Railway             38   14   4  20    36   53  −17    46
14 Echegoyan FC             38   14   3  21    51   63  −12    45
15 Astograth University     38   11  12  15    34   41   −7    45
16 Ituraitz FC              38   13   5  20    54   61   −7    44
17 Urbitzo FC               38   11   7  20    44   58  −14    40
18 Oyardo FC                38   10   7  21    37   71  −34    37 ↓ 1-year run
19 Athletic Club Rumiatzi   38    3  14  21    37   68  −31    23 ↓ 2-year run
20 Urizaharra FC            38    5   8  25    36   71  −35    23 ↓ 1-year run

CHAMPIONS
ITURRIBUTA UNITED
8th title

Second Division

Taldo Biharran             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Ibarbe Sport             46   33   6   7    84   31  +53   105 ↑ Champions / Liga B Champions Trophy
 2 Sporting Ibarguren       46   30   7   9    72   32  +40    97 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 3 Sporting Olarria         46   27  11   8    59   28  +31    92 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 4 Uidio Mariners           46   28   8  10    66   35  +31    92
 5 Ximun Orieta FC          46   27  10   9    75   42  +33    91
 6 Ezkutia MFC              46   28   7  11    78   34  +44    91
 7 Miners FC                46   24  11  11    78   46  +32    83
 8 Royal Arexa              46   23   9  14    60   46  +14    78
 9 Iturributa Racing Club   46   21   9  16    62   49  +13    72
10 Garitzeta Racing Club    46   19  13  14    50   44   +6    70
11 Garitzeta FC             46   20   9  17    44   41   +3    69
12 Eagles FC                46   18   9  19    45   54   −9    63
13 Old City Central         46   17   9  20    57   59   −2    60
14 Erribe United            46   14  15  17    44   54  −10    57
15 Nabarrieta FC            46   15   8  23    37   52  −15    53
16 Cafundelense             46   15   7  24    43   71  −28    52
17 Gesterlake FC            46   14   7  25    40   63  −23    49
18 Rumiatzi 529             46   12   9  25    34   58  −24    45
19 Uzio Blackstar           46   12   7  27    37   66  −29    43
20 Amanka FC                46   12   6  28    41   70  −29    42
21 Baker's Eleven           46   10  11  25    44   65  −21    41 ↓ Relegated
22 Lermendia FC             46   10  10  26    41   71  −30    40 ↓ Relegated
23 Chopbiren FC             46    7  12  27    35   72  −37    33 ↓ Relegated
24 Ermarretza United        46    6  10  30    40   83  −43    28 ↓ Relegated

Promotion Playoffs

Semifinals
Ezkutia MFC 0–4 Sporting Olarria
Ximun Orieta FC 1–0 Uidio Mariners

Sporting Olarria 1–2 Ezkutia MFC (5–2 agg.)
Uidio Mariners 1–0 Ximun Orieta FC (1–1 AET, 1–2 agg.)

Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Sporting Olarria 1–1 Ximun Orieta FC (2–1 AET)

Second Division B
East Group

Taldo Biharran B East     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Ezkalmendia FC          46   27  12   7    88   37  +51    93 ↑ Champions / Promoted
 2 Iratza Fury             46   26  11   9    55   36  +19    89
 3 Mars Athletic           46   26   9  11    80   40  +40    87 ↑ Promoted
 4 Basabe Old Boys         46   25  11  10    76   41  +35    86
 5 Royal Association       46   23  11  12    65   36  +29    80
 6 Uraldea Shipyard        46   23  10  13    73   45  +28    79
 7 Basabe Youth            46   22  12  12    60   42  +18    78
 8 Arbetsana Crossing      46   24   6  16    69   50  +19    78
 9 Dockyard Oaks           46   21  13  12    58   50   +8    76
10 Ariznabarra Castle      46   22   9  15    57   55   +2    75
11 Uertza Gymnastic        46   22   8  16    78   59  +19    74
12 United of Langaraitz    46   19  15  12    66   48  +18    72
13 Galarra Youth           46   19  11  16    55   51   +4    68
14 Landaluz Casuals        46   18  13  15    52   43   +9    67
15 Chabeitzio FC           46   17   9  20    55   51   +4    60
16 Freedom FC              46   14  11  21    35   53  −18    53
17 Markiniz Union          46   14   9  23    35   59  −24    51
18 Letzama University      46   12  11  23    43   70  −27    47
19 Iturricho FC            46   13   8  25    43   65  −22    47
20 Riverside Athletic      46   11   6  29    34   66  −32    39
21 Focus FC                46   10   7  29    31   76  −45    37 ↓ Relegated
22 Uriarte United          46    9   7  30    32   74  −42    34 ↓ Relegated
23 Otsate Wolfpack         46    7  12  27    25   66  −41    33 ↓ Relegated
24 Gudea Sword Club        46    8   9  29    26   78  −52    33 ↓ Relegated

West Group

Taldo Biharran B West       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Gortz Academy             46   28  14   4    79   29  +50    98 ↑ Promoted
 2 Army United               46   28  11   7    75   31  +44    95
 3 Ichapeldun Mariners       46   26  13   7    63   32  +31    91 ↑ Promoted
 4 FAS SC                    46   26  13   7    73   40  +33    91
 5 Progress Athletic         46   26  12   8    71   39  +32    90
 6 Bizkarra Castle           46   23   9  14    61   43  +18    78
 7 Phoenix Athletic          46   23   8  15    57   47  +10    77
 8 South Factory             46   22  10  14    60   44  +16    76
 9 Muitago Union             46   19  10  17    48   52   −4    67
10 Fort Saint Oskia          46   18  12  16    53   44   +9    66
11 Echegoyan Railway         46   18   8  20    49   52   −3    62
12 Okerruri FC               46   18   8  20    48   53   −5    62
13 Tzaramaga Rovers          46   16  13  17    57   58   −1    61
14 San Markez                46   13  15  18    49   52   −3    54
15 Ereniotzu Sports          46   13  15  18    46   49   −3    54
16 Leizaran River            46   15   9  22    42   62  −20    54
17 Argos Olarria             46   14  10  22    43   59  −16    52
18 Orontzo United            46   14   7  25    43   68  −25    49
19 Goyardeliz United         46   13   8  25    43   61  −18    47
20 Eleven Men In Flight FC   46   13   7  26    28   61  −33    46
21 Duronio Riverside         46   11  12  23    36   55  −19    45 ↓ Relegated
22 Benasperri Independent    46   12   8  26    44   79  −35    44 ↓ Relegated
23 Guenaztia Electric        46    9  12  25    43   71  −28    39 ↓ Relegated
24 Satzueta Alliance         46    5  14  27    33   63  −30    29 ↓ Relegated

Championship Final – East vs. West
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Gortz Academy 2–2 Ezkalmendia FC (2–3 AET)

Promotion Playoffs
Ichapeldun Mariners 3–0 Iratza Fury
Mars Athletic 2–0 Army United

Iratza Fury 1–2 Ichapeldun Mariners (1–5 agg.)
Army United 0–0 Mars Athletic (0–2 agg.)

The Royal Cup

One-legged ties. First and Second Division teams enter at the Round of 64, and the former are seeded for that and the following round. If clubs have a two-tier difference or greater, the lower-tier team will play at home.

Round of 64 (select matches)
Benasperri Independent 0–1 Sporting Iturributa
Sporting Olarria 0–1 Urbizania Wanderers
Ereniotzu Sports 1–2 Oyardo FC
Iturributa United 5–0 Iturributa Racing Club
Uraldea Shipyard 0–1 Athletic Club Rumiatzi
Arbetsana Crossing 0–3 Urbitzo FC
Ituraitz Victory 1–1 Ezkutia MFC (2–1 AET)
Leizaran River 0–1 Athletic Club Olarria
Ituraitz FC 0–1 Gesterlake FC
Eleven Men In Flight FC 1–1 Echegoyan FC (2–1 AET)
South Factory 1–2 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Progress Athletic 0–1 East Railway
Rumiatzi 529 0–3 Gortz United
Ezkalmendia FC 0–2 Astograth University
Mars Athletic 1–2 Royal Ibarbe
Urizaharra FC 3–0 Erribe United
Royal Rumiatzi 1–1 Ximun Orieta FC (2–1 AET)
Nabarrieta FC 2–2 Antiguoko FC (4–2 AET)
Blue Mountain Range 2–0 Eagles FC
FAS SC 1–1 Sporting Arkamo (2–3 AET)

Round of 32
Galarra Youth 0–1 Athletic Club Olarria
Gesterlake FC 1–2 Royal Ibarbe
Nabarrieta FC 0–1 Urbizania Wanderers
Miners FC 2–1 Oyardo FC
Uidio Mariners 0–1 Ituraitz Victory
Echegoyan Railway 0–4 Sporting Arkamo
Ichapeldun Mariners 1–0 Athletic Club Rumiatzi
Urbitzo FC 1–0 Garitzeta Racing Club
Tzaramaga Rovers 0–3 Gortz United
Garitzeta FC 1–1 East Railway (2–2 AET) (6–5 pen.)
Urizaharra FC 2–2 Royal Arexa (2–2 AET) (3–1 pen.)
Blue Mountain Range 0–1 Cafundelense
Baker's Eleven 0–2 Sporting Iturributa
Eleven Men In Flight FC 0–3 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Chopbiren FC 1–3 Royal Rumiatzi
Astograth University 0–5 Iturributa United

Round of 16
Urizaharra FC 0–0 Athletic Club Olarria (0–2 AET)
Ichapeldun Mariners 0–2 Urbizania Wanderers
Gortz United 2–0 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Ituraitz Victory 1–1 Sporting Arkamo (1–2 AET)
Miners FC 0–4 Urbitzo FC
Sporting Iturributa 2–0 Royal Rumiatzi
Royal Ibarbe 1–0 Cafundelense
Iturributa United 4–0 Garitzeta FC

Quarterfinals
Athletic Club Olarria 1–4 Urbizania Wanderers
Urbitzo FC 0–0 Gortz United (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Iturributa United 0–0 Sporting Iturributa (1–0 AET)
Sporting Arkamo 1–0 Royal Ibarbe

Semifinals
Urbizania Wanderers 1–1 Iturributa United (1–1 AET) (1–2 pen.)
Urbitzo FC 0–2 Sporting Arkamo

The Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Iturributa United 1–0 Sporting Arkamo

CHAMPIONS
ITURRIBUTA UNITED
5th title

Astograth (ASG) qualifiers
Champions League: Iturributa United, Sporting Iturributa
Challengers Cup: Urbizania Wanderers, Gortz United, Blue Mountain Range
Liga B Champions Trophy: Ibarbe Sport, Sporting Ibarguren, Sporting Olarria
Cup Winners’ Cup: Iturributa United

Copa de Campeones: Iturributa United

by **Astograth** » Sun Mar 05, 2023 2:48 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 694 Review

The 49th season of the Astograthian Football League is now concluded.

First Division

Taldo Lehan               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Urbizania Wanderers     38   28   2   8    62   21  +41    86 Champions / Copa de Campeones / Champions League
 2 Gortz United            38   25   6   7    69   29  +40    81 Champions League
 3 Blue Mountain Range     38   23  10   5    47   14  +33    79 Challengers Cup
 4 Iturributa United       38   23   7   8    68   40  +28    76 Challengers Cup
 5 Sporting Iturributa     38   21   7  10    53   27  +26    70 Challengers Cup
 6 Royal Rumiatzi          38   20   7  11    58   41  +17    67
 7 Royal Ibarbe            38   18   6  14    47   35  +12    60
 8 Athletic Club Olarria   38   16   9  13    48   51   −3    57
 9 Sporting Arkamo         38   14  10  14    54   55   −1    52
10 Bakartirla Buccaneers   38   13   9  16    41   51  −10    48
11 Antiguoko FC            38   14   5  19    48   59  −11    47
12 Ituraitz FC             38   12  11  15    57   65   −8    47
13 Sporting Ibarguren      38   13   8  17    38   48  −10    47
14 Astograth University    38   11  10  17    36   48  −12    43
15 Ituraitz Victory        38    8  15  15    42   63  −21    39
16 Echegoyan FC            38    9  11  18    46   64  −18    38
17 Ibarbe Sport            38    9   7  22    37   65  −28    34
18 East Railway            38    8   9  21    38   56  −18    33 ↓ 11-year run
19 Urbitzo FC              38    7  11  20    32   56  −24    32 ↓ 2-year run
20 Sporting Olarria        38    3  10  25    16   49  −33    19 ↓ 1-year run

CHAMPIONS
URBIZANIA WANDERERS
9th title

Second Division

Taldo Biharran             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Oyardo FC                46   33   5   8    79   23  +56   104 ↑ Champions / Liga B Champions Trophy
 2 Athletic Club Rumiatzi   46   30   7   9    75   43  +32    97 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 3 Royal Arexa              46   29   9   8    74   32  +42    96 Liga B Champions Trophy
 4 Ximun Orieta FC          46   25  10  11    84   41  +43    85 ↑ Promoted
 5 Uidio Mariners           46   25   8  13    64   42  +22    83
 6 Iturributa Racing Club   46   25   8  13    57   41  +16    83
 7 Miners FC                46   23  12  11    66   42  +24    81
 8 Ezkutia MFC              46   24   8  14    66   51  +15    80
 9 Garitzeta Racing Club    46   23   6  17    55   36  +19    75
10 Urizaharra FC            46   20   9  17    55   42  +13    69
11 Garitzeta FC             46   18  14  14    57   47  +10    68
12 Erribe United            46   17  14  15    51   55   −4    65
13 Old City Central         46   16  11  19    51   49   +2    59
14 Nabarrieta FC            46   15  13  18    47   52   −5    58
15 Ichapeldun Mariners      46   15  12  19    56   64   −8    57
16 Mars Athletic            46   16   5  25    53   68  −15    53
17 Gortz Academy            46   12  11  23    45   70  −25    47
18 Ezkalmendia FC           46   11  11  24    50   61  −11    44
19 Gesterlake FC            46   12   8  26    39   79  −40    44
20 Eagles FC                46   10  13  23    37   59  −22    43
21 Cafundelense             46    9  16  21    32   59  −27    43 ↓ Relegated
22 Amanka FC                46   10   7  29    34   85  −51    37 ↓ Relegated
23 Rumiatzi 529             46    8  10  28    42   78  −36    34 ↓ Relegated
24 Uzio Blackstar           46    8   9  29    42   92  −50    33 ↓ Relegated

Promotion Playoffs

Semifinals
Iturributa Racing Club 1–1 Royal Arexa
Uidio Mariners 1–0 Ximun Orieta FC

Royal Arexa 1–2 Iturributa Racing Club (2–3 agg.)
Ximun Orieta FC 4–1 Uidio Mariners (4–2 agg.)

Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Iturributa Racing Club 1–2 Ximun Orieta FC

Second Division B
East Group

Taldo Biharran B East     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Iratza Fury             46   26  11   9    64   36  +28    89 ↑ Promoted
 2 Basabe Old Boys         46   23  11  12    55   41  +14    80 ↑ Promoted
 3 Uertza Gymnastic        46   22  11  13    58   45  +13    77 ↑ Promoted
 4 Otabera United          46   21  11  14    53   49   +4    74
 5 Royal Association       46   22   8  16    61   46  +15    74
 6 Dockyard Oaks           46   20  11  15    54   51   +3    71
 7 Lermendia FC            46   19  14  13    63   49  +14    71
 8 Baker's Eleven          46   20  10  16    42   40   +2    70
 9 Uraldea Shipyard        46   19   9  18    63   60   +3    66
10 Arbetsana Crossing      46   18  12  16    48   44   +4    66
11 Freedom FC              46   18  12  16    44   42   +2    66
12 International FC        46   17  14  15    48   44   +4    65
13 Galarra Youth           46   17  13  16    53   49   +4    64
14 Basabe Youth            46   16  16  14    48   43   +5    64
15 Landaluz Casuals        46   19   7  20    52   56   −4    64
16 Chabeitzio FC           46   17  12  17    56   58   −2    63
17 United of Langaraitz    46   15  13  18    57   65   −8    58
18 Black Stallion          46   14  13  19    48   56   −8    55
19 Letzama University      46   13  12  21    52   60   −8    51
20 Riverside Athletic      46   13  11  22    40   63  −23    50
21 Ariznabarra Castle      46   13  10  23    45   56  −11    49 ↓ Relegated
22 Duchess FC              46   13   7  26    36   56  −20    46 ↓ Relegated
23 Markiniz Union          46   11  12  23    35   55  −20    45 ↓ Relegated
24 Iturricho FC            46   11  10  25    44   55  −11    43 ↓ Relegated

West Group

Taldo Biharran B West       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Army United               46   31   9   6    71   34  +37   102 ↑ Champions / Promoted
 2 Muitago Union             46   27   6  13    62   40  +22    87
 3 FAS SC                    46   24  14   8    66   40  +26    86
 4 Progress Athletic         46   23  12  11    68   43  +25    81
 5 Bizkarra Castle           46   20  13  13    59   47  +12    73
 6 San Markez                46   21   8  17    52   52    0    71
 7 Ametzanga Valour          46   20  10  16    59   52   +7    70
 8 Okerruri FC               46   20   8  18    59   49  +10    68
 9 Athletic Club Yokano      46   18  11  17    44   46   −2    65
10 Phoenix Athletic          46   18  10  18    52   49   +3    64
11 Orontzo United            46   17  13  16    46   46    0    64
12 Echegoyan Railway         46   16  14  16    48   44   +4    62
13 Malgor Union              46   17  11  18    48   50   −2    62
14 Fort Saint Oskia          46   17  10  19    50   44   +6    61
15 South Factory             46   15  15  16    52   55   −3    60
16 Leizaran River            46   16  12  18    45   54   −9    60
17 Ermarretza United         46   16  11  19    42   48   −6    59
18 Chopbiren FC              46   13  16  17    43   49   −6    55
19 Eleven Men In Flight FC   46   14  13  19    53   65  −12    55
20 Ereniotzu Sports          46   10  17  19    52   67  −15    47
21 Tzaramaga Rovers          46   11  11  24    45   59  −14    44 ↓ Relegated
22 Argos Olarria             46   11   9  26    33   57  −24    42 ↓ Relegated
23 Markina Whitewater        46   10  12  24    37   68  −31    42 ↓ Relegated
24 Goyardeliz United         46    9  11  26    39   67  −28    38 ↓ Relegated

Championship Final – East vs. West
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Iratza Fury 1–2 Army United

Promotion Playoffs
FAS SC 0–1 Basabe Old Boys
Uertza Gymnastic 4–1 Muitago Union

Basabe Old Boys 1–0 FAS SC (1–0 AET, 1–1 agg., 4–2 pen.)
Muitago Union 0–1 Uertza Gymnastic (1–5 agg.)

The Royal Cup

One-legged ties. First and Second Division teams enter at the Round of 64, and the former are seeded for that and the following round. If clubs have a two-tier difference or greater, the lower-tier team will play at home.

Round of 64 (select matches)
Ibarbe Sport 1–0 Mars Athletic
Blue Mountain Range 1–0 Garitzeta Racing Club
Iratza Fury 2–1 Antiguoko FC
Astograth University 0–3 Athletic Club Rumiatzi
Dockyard Oaks 1–4 Royal Rumiatzi
Royal Ibarbe 1–1 Ezkalmendia FC (2–1 AET)
Sporting Arkamo 3–2 Gesterlake FC
East Railway 2–3 Garitzeta FC
Freedom FC 3–0 Sporting Olarria
Chopbiren FC 1–2 Gortz United
Eleven Men In Flight FC 2–2 Iturributa United (3–2 AET)
Amanka FC 1–3 Urbitzo FC
Sporting Iturributa 3–0 Ichapeldun Mariners
Bakartirla Buccaneers 1–0 Miners FC
Ituraitz FC 3–2 Ezkutia MFC
Athletic Club Olarria 2–1 Uidio Mariners
Otzokonda FC 1–2 Sporting Ibarguren
Ituraitz Victory 1–0 Erribe United
Rumiatzi 529 0–1 Echegoyan FC
Ximun Orieta FC 3–0 Urbizania Wanderers

Round of 32
Orontzo United 0–2 Blue Mountain Range
Freedom FC 0–2 Urbitzo FC
Iturributa Racing Club 1–5 Ituraitz Victory
Eagles FC 3–0 Gortz United
Nabarrieta FC 0–0 Sporting Arkamo (0–1 AET)
Phoenix Athletic 0–1 Ibarbe Sport
Garitzeta FC 1–3 Ituraitz FC
Basabe Old Boys 0–0 Royal Ibarbe (0–1 AET)
Army United 0–1 Royal Rumiatzi
Ximun Orieta FC 1–1 Sporting Iturributa (2–2 AET) (5–4 pen.)
Eleven Men In Flight FC 0–2 Echegoyan FC
Athletic Club Rumiatzi 0–0 Athletic Club Olarria (0–0 AET) (2–1 pen.)
Iratza Fury 3–3 Bakartirla Buccaneers (3–3 AET) (5–6 pen.)
Bizkarra Castle 0–5 Sporting Ibarguren
Old City Central 1–1 FAS SC (4–1 AET)
Cafundelense 1–1 Oyardo FC (1–1 AET) (2–4 pen.)

Round of 16
Athletic Club Rumiatzi 1–0 Sporting Arkamo
Oyardo FC 1–1 Ituraitz Victory (1–1 AET) (3–2 pen.)
Ituraitz FC 2–0 Ximun Orieta FC
Echegoyan FC 0–2 Royal Ibarbe
Bakartirla Buccaneers 1–0 Sporting Ibarguren
Old City Central 0–2 Urbitzo FC
Royal Rumiatzi 0–1 Blue Mountain Range
Ibarbe Sport 1–2 Eagles FC

Quarterfinals
Ituraitz FC 2–0 Royal Ibarbe
Bakartirla Buccaneers 2–0 Blue Mountain Range
Athletic Club Rumiatzi 2–0 Eagles FC
Oyardo FC 0–0 Urbitzo FC (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.)

Semifinals
Urbitzo FC 0–2 Ituraitz FC
Bakartirla Buccaneers 0–0 Athletic Club Rumiatzi (1–0 AET)

The Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Ituraitz FC 1–2 Bakartirla Buccaneers

CHAMPIONS
BAKARTIRLA BUCCANEERS
1st title

Astograth (ASG) qualifiers
Champions League: Urbizania Wanderers, Gortz United
Challengers Cup: Blue Mountain Range, Iturributa United, Sporting Iturributa
Liga B Champions Trophy: Oyardo FC, Athletic Club Rumiatzi, Royal Arexa
Cup Winners’ Cup: Bakartirla Buccaneers

Copa de Campeones: Urbizania Wanderers

by **Astograth** » Sat May 20, 2023 5:24 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 695 Review

The 50th season of the Astograthian Football League is now concluded.

First Division

The last 7 seasons were the worst stretch in Royal Rumiatzi’s history. For a club that considers itself the indisputable power within Astograth, where finishing outside the top 4 was once grounds for immediate dismissal of the manager and half the first-team, these years of finishing between 6th and 9th were a pure nightmare. Repeated sackings, poor signings, and discord in the dressing room characterised these years of turmoil, which reached all the way down to the youth teams. Manager Eneko Madariaga, who won the league with Gortz United, went into this season on a tightrope, having finished in 6th last season and promising he needed just one more year to realise his vision. Slowly, his Rumiatzi got into gear and functioned much as his Gortz: a ferrous defense and ferocious attack, structured through the axis of his central midfielder Otsando Zabay. Together they stormed to the title with 90 points, a new league record. The team’s two Nepharan veterans, striker Danica Marinkovic and goalkeeper/captain Konrad Matheny, were Madariaga’s other tentpoles, put in stellar performances, a fitting final season to their careers.

Taldo Lehan                Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Royal Rumiatzi           38   28   6   4    73   29  +44    90 Champions / Copa de Campeones / Champions League
 2 Iturributa United        38   25   5   8    84   38  +46    80 Champions League
 3 Gortz United             38   24   5   9    54   33  +21    77 Challengers Cup
 4 Sporting Iturributa      38   21  10   7    46   26  +20    73 Challengers Cup
 5 Urbizania Wanderers      38   21   7  10    62   28  +34    70 Challengers Cup
 6 Blue Mountain Range      38   20   9   9    41   20  +21    69
 7 Sporting Arkamo          38   17  11  10    60   48  +12    62
 8 Bakartirla Buccaneers    38   16  10  12    58   52   +6    58
 9 Athletic Club Olarria    38   16   9  13    56   41  +15    57
10 Royal Ibarbe             38   15   8  15    39   42   −3    53
11 Antiguoko FC             38   12  12  14    45   49   −4    48
12 Oyardo FC                38   12  11  15    39   46   −7    47
13 Ituraitz Victory         38   13   7  18    42   56  −14    46
14 Ituraitz FC              38   10  11  17    40   61  −21    41
15 Astograth University     38   11   6  21    31   50  −19    39
16 Echegoyan FC             38    8  12  18    42   68  −26    36
17 Athletic Club Rumiatzi   38    8   8  22    34   64  −30    32
18 Sporting Ibarguren       38    8   7  23    25   56  −31    31 ↓ 2-year run
19 Ximun Orieta FC          38    5   9  24    24   52  −28    24 ↓ 1-year run
20 Ibarbe Sport             38    4   9  25    28   64  −36    21 ↓ 2-year run

CHAMPIONS
ROYAL RUMIATZI
12th title

FAF Awards

At the traditional awards ceremony, held at Rumiatzi’s Kraitzaga Theatre once the season is concluded, the Futbol Astograthiko Federazioa presented the following awards, based on First Division performance. Local media consider these highly prestigious, and the definitive acknowledgement of the best in Astograthian football.

Player of the Season:
1.

Kolejes Marajis (FFD), RM – Gortz United – 38 appearances, 12 goals
2.

Konrad Matheny (NPH), GK – Royal Rumiatzi – 38 appearances
3.

Pristina Shine (EQS), CF – Iturributa United – 38 appearances, 32 goals

Young Player of the Season:
1.

Lordi Urdinarrain, RB, age 21 – Royal Rumiatzi – 29 appearances, 3 goals
2.

Eate Garriga, DM, age 21 – Urbizania Wanderers – 34 appearances, 5 goals
3.

Egoitz Lizarasu, RB, age 21 – Bakartirla Buccaneers – 34 appearances

Manager of the Season:
1.

Eneko Madariaga – Royal Rumiatzi
2.

Justin Vauxhall (BRE) – Iturributa United
3.

Balendin Sorrekieta – Gortz United

Golden Uri for Top Scorer:
32 –

Pristina Shine (EQS), CF – Iturributa United
25 –

Brandon Irving (SNL), CF – Urbizania Wanderers
22 –

Danica Marinkovic (NPH), CF – Royal Rumiatzi

Elmsvikur Trophy for Goal of the Season:
1.

Fangti Pikolaugh (CMT) – Iturributa United (H) vs. Athletic Club Rumiatzi, MD 24, FT 5–1. Pikolaugh opens the scoring by bursting through Athletic Rumiatzi's lines to receive a deep pass from Despotovic and dribble around the goalkeeper.
2.

Ilixo Moxa – Blue Mountain Range (A) vs. Antiguoko FC, MD 35, FT 2–2. On the brink of half-time, Moxa notices keeper Olaiz Baskary off her line and draws the scores level with a measured shot from halfway across the pitch.
3.

Garbie Inorreta – Urbizania Wanderers (H) vs. Royal Ibarbe, MD 12, FT 4–0. Inorreta opens the floodgates for Wanderers with a free-kick that curls and dips into the goal's far post.

Team of the Season:
GK –

Konrad Matheny (NPH) – Royal Rumiatzi – 38 appearances
LB –

Devlyn Harris (QUE) – Sporting Iturributa – 37 appearances
CB –

Martí Donat (TEQ) – Royal Rumiatzi – 35 appearances, 2 goals
CB –

Ilazki Orrego – Iturributa United – 34 appearances, 2 goals
RB –

Lordi Urdinarrain – Royal Rumiatzi – 29 appearances, 3 goals
LM –

Shiloh Morgenstern (TAE) – Gortz United – 35 appearances, 8 goals
CM –

Otsando Zabay – Royal Rumiatzi – 30 appearances, 5 goals
RM –

Kolejes Marajis ⟮(FFD) – Gortz United – 38 appearances, 12 goals
AM –

Abarrotz Zumalakarregi – Sporting Iturributa – 38 appearances, 10 goals
CF –

Pristina Shine (EQS) – Iturributa United – 38 appearances, 32 goals
CF –

Brandon Irving (SNL) – Urbizania Wanderers – 36 appearances, 25 goals

Second Division
Uidio Mariners have won promotion to the Astograthian top flight for the very first time, and will be the 45th club to play in the First Division. They are joined by Royal Arexa, who make a return after 5 seasons, and playoff winners Iturributa Racing Club, who return after 6. A late equaliser by Garitzeta FC on the final matchday spelled disaster for East Railway, who were widely expected to win the division. Demoralised, Railway struggled in the playoffs and went out to Ezkutia. They gambled on a quick promotion in order to keep much of their top-flight squad – together with the heavy debts from their stadium renovation, the financial strain may soon prove too much.

Taldo Biharran             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Uidio Mariners           46   29  12   5    79   31  +48    99 ↑ Champions / Liga B Champions Trophy
 2 Royal Arexa              46   26  13   7    64   27  +37    91 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 3 East Railway             46   27   9  10    70   37  +33    90 Liga B Champions Trophy
 4 Urbitzo FC               46   23  14   9    70   39  +31    83
 5 Iturributa Racing Club   46   26   4  16    61   39  +22    82 ↑ Promoted
 6 Ezkutia MFC              46   23  12  11    60   37  +23    81
 7 Miners FC                46   24   8  14    68   44  +24    80
 8 Garitzeta FC             46   24   8  14    68   51  +17    80
 9 Urizaharra FC            46   23   8  15    66   44  +22    77
10 Garitzeta Racing Club    46   21  11  14    70   43  +27    74
11 Sporting Olarria         46   15  15  16    39   46   −7    60
12 Basabe Old Boys          46   16   9  21    34   50  −16    57
13 Nabarrieta FC            46   16   8  22    50   59   −9    56
14 Army United              46   12  17  17    55   67  −12    53
15 Eagles FC                46   15   8  23    37   61  −24    53
16 Old City Central         46   15   8  23    47   59  −12    53
17 Erribe United            46   14  10  22    45   54   −9    52
18 Ichapeldun Mariners      46   12  15  19    40   57  −17    51
19 Gortz Academy            46   13   8  25    43   68  −25    47
20 Iratza Fury              46   13   8  25    31   60  −29    47
21 Gesterlake FC            46   11  13  22    37   65  −28    46 ↓ Relegated
22 Mars Athletic            46   12   9  25    46   77  −31    45 ↓ Relegated
23 Ezkalmendia FC           46   11   9  26    38   68  −30    42 ↓ Relegated
24 Uertza Gymnastic         46    7  12  27    44   79  −35    33 ↓ Relegated

Promotion Playoffs

Semifinals
Ezkutia MFC 2–0 East Railway
Iturributa Racing Club 0–1 Urbitzo FC

East Railway 1–0 Ezkutia MFC (1–2 agg.)
Urbitzo FC 0–3 Iturributa Racing Club (1–3 agg.)

Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Ezkutia MFC 0–1 Iturributa Racing Club

Second Division B
East Group

Taldo Biharran B East     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Uraldea Shipyard        46   29   8   9    74   36  +38    95 ↑ Champions / Promoted
 2 Royal Association       46   30   3  13    68   36  +32    93
 3 Basabe Youth            46   24  16   6    71   36  +35    88
 4 Arbetsana Crossing      46   25   6  15    74   56  +18    81
 5 Baker's Eleven          46   24   8  14    70   48  +22    80
 6 Dockyard Oaks           46   23  10  13    68   50  +18    79
 7 Lermendia FC            46   22  10  14    62   40  +22    76
 8 Chabeitzio FC           46   22   8  16    60   51   +9    74
 9 Otabera United          46   21   9  16    55   49   +6    72
10 Cafundelense            46   19  14  13    58   38  +20    71
11 Landaluz Casuals        46   19  14  13    54   48   +6    71
12 United of Langaraitz    46   16  15  15    50   55   −5    63
13 International FC        46   18   8  20    49   55   −6    62
14 Galarra Youth           46   16  11  19    46   54   −8    59
15 Freedom FC              46   16   9  21    53   61   −8    57
16 General Errekart        46   16   8  22    51   62  −11    56
17 Madarinda Sunrise       46   14  13  19    50   70  −20    55
18 Black Stallion          46   12  14  20    45   59  −14    50
19 Zendariano Railway      46   13  10  23    35   64  −29    49
20 Larrinoa Yellow-Green   46   12  13  21    39   53  −14    49
21 Letzama University      46   10  11  25    25   52  −27    41 ↓ Relegated
22 Uzio Blackstar          46   10  10  26    53   72  −19    40 ↓ Relegated
23 Andozketa Energy        46    9  13  24    45   65  −20    40 ↓ Relegated
24 Riverside Athletic      46    6  11  29    26   71  −45    29 ↓ Relegated

West Group

Taldo Biharran B West       Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 FAS SC                    46   30  12   4    69   24  +45   102 ↑ Promoted
 2 Progress Athletic         46   23  15   8    67   44  +23    84 ↑ Promoted
 3 Bizkarra Castle           46   25   8  13    60   43  +17    83 ↑ Promoted
 4 Muitago Union             46   21  16   9    64   43  +21    79
 5 Malgor Union              46   22   9  15    69   52  +17    75
 6 San Markez                46   21  10  15    64   50  +14    73
 7 Fort Saint Oskia          46   21   9  16    53   43  +10    72
 8 Echegoyan Railway         46   18  13  15    48   44   +4    67
 9 Okerruri FC               46   19  10  17    46   48   −2    67
10 Athletic Club Yokano      46   18  11  17    54   45   +9    65
11 South Factory             46   18  10  18    62   57   +5    64
12 Ametzanga Valour          46   17  10  19    54   61   −7    61
13 Ermarretza United         46   18   7  21    51   64  −13    61
14 Phoenix Athletic          46   15  14  17    48   59  −11    59
15 Chopbiren FC              46   16   9  21    42   54  −12    57
16 Ertzanga FC               46   15  11  20    46   57  −11    56
17 Leizaran River            46   15   9  22    45   59  −14    54
18 Rumiatzi 529              46   14  12  20    43   53  −10    54
19 Orontzo United            46   12  17  17    52   54   −2    53
20 Amanka FC                 46   11  18  17    47   51   −4    51
21 Matzaka Old Boys          46   10  17  19    50   64  −14    47 ↓ Relegated
22 Urbizania United          46   10  16  20    43   52   −9    46 ↓ Relegated
23 Ereniotzu Sports          46   12   9  25    37   69  −32    45 ↓ Relegated
24 Eleven Men In Flight FC   46    7  16  23    43   67  −24    37 ↓ Relegated

Championship Final – East vs. West
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Uraldea Shipyard 1–0 FAS SC

Promotion Playoffs
Bizkarra Castle 1–1 Royal Association
Basabe Youth 1–2 Progress Athletic

Royal Association 0–0 Bizkarra Castle (0–1 AET, 1–2 agg.)
Progress Athletic 1–0 Basabe Youth (3–1 agg.)

The Royal Cup

One-legged ties. First and Second Division teams enter at the Round of 64, and the former are seeded for that and the following round. If clubs have a two-tier difference or greater, the lower-tier team will play at home.

Round of 64 (select matches)
Izuna Harmony 1–2 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Amanka FC 0–3 Sporting Iturributa
Phoenix Athletic 0–3 Royal Rumiatzi
Blue Mountain Range 2–0 Urizaharra FC
South Factory 0–1 Oyardo FC
Uidio Mariners 1–4 Urbizania Wanderers
Nabarrieta FC 0–3 Athletic Club Olarria
Leizaran River 1–0 Gortz United
Uertza Gymnastic 1–2 Astograth University
Iturributa United 2–0 Garitzeta FC
Athletic Club Rumiatzi 3–3 Miners FC (3–3 AET) (3–2 pen.)
Echegoyan Railway 2–2 Ituraitz FC (3–2 AET)
Antiguoko FC 2–0 Sporting Olarria
Mars Athletic 0–4 Sporting Ibarguren
Ximun Orieta FC 1–0 Ezkalmendia FC
Gesterlake FC 3–3 Royal Ibarbe (3–3 AET) (2–3 pen.)
Athletic Club Yokano 1–5 Sporting Arkamo
Echegoyan FC 3–2 Old City Central
Ituraitz Victory 1–0 Iturributa Racing Club
Ibarbe Sport 3–0 Gortz Academy

Round of 32
Bizkarra Castle 0–1 Blue Mountain Range
Echegoyan Railway 2–2 Iturributa United (2–2 AET) (2–3 pen.)
Leizaran River 0–0 Sporting Ibarguren (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Antiguoko FC 5–2 East Railway
Army United 1–2 Ituraitz Victory
Iratza Fury 3–0 Athletic Club Rumiatzi
Erribe United 1–0 Echegoyan FC
Arbetsana Crossing 1–0 Ximun Orieta FC
Ibarbe Sport 3–0 Eagles FC
Baker's Eleven 1–1 Royal Rumiatzi (1–1 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Freedom FC 0–1 Royal Ibarbe
Madarinda Sunrise 0–2 Sporting Arkamo
Ezkutia MFC 0–1 Urbizania Wanderers
Basabe Old Boys 0–2 Sporting Iturributa
Astograth University 1–1 Athletic Club Olarria (1–2 AET)
Bakartirla Buccaneers 2–2 Oyardo FC (3–2 AET)

Round of 16
Ituraitz Victory 0–0 Antiguoko FC (1–0 AET)
Blue Mountain Range 2–3 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Arbetsana Crossing 0–1 Royal Rumiatzi
Urbizania Wanderers 1–0 Sporting Iturributa
Sporting Arkamo 1–4 Sporting Ibarguren
Iratza Fury 1–1 Ibarbe Sport (2–1 AET)
Iturributa United 2–0 Erribe United
Royal Ibarbe 0–1 Athletic Club Olarria

Quarterfinals
Iturributa United 0–0 Ituraitz Victory (0–0 AET) (5–4 pen.)
Royal Rumiatzi 2–1 Iratza Fury
Bakartirla Buccaneers 1–3 Sporting Ibarguren
Athletic Club Olarria 0–1 Urbizania Wanderers

Semifinals
Sporting Ibarguren 1–3 Royal Rumiatzi
Urbizania Wanderers 3–0 Iturributa United

The Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi

The first season of Astograthian football ended with Royal Rumiatzi as league champions, with Iturributa United as league runners-up, and a Royal Cup final in which Rumiatzi won a double by beating Urbizania Wanderers.

The fiftieth season of Astograthian national football ended with Royal Rumiatzi as league champions, with Iturributa United as league runners-up, and a Royal Cup final in which Rumiatzi could win the double by beating Urbizania Wanderers.

Everything pointed to history repeating itself. Rumiatzi had defeated Wanderers in both their league encounters, including a 3–0 humbling in Urbizania. Rumiatzi had won the league with a game in hand and still showed off by trouncing Gortz United away in the last match. Wanderers ended their league campaign defending a scrappy 1–0 home win against Athletic Olarria, terrified of an equaliser that would have knocked them out of the IFCF spots.

The day of, with the legendary Grand Duke’s Stadium split between the two largest fanbases in the country, Royal Rumiatzi exuded the confidence and swagger of a record-breaking team destined for the double. But in the 34th minute, Brandon ‘The Elephant’ Irving received the ball from Garbie Inorreta and was immediately hounded by defenders Martí Donat and Munia Alzuagaray, who had very effectively nullified his threat in their previous meetings. They pushed him onto his weak foot, and Irving saw the scenario he had prepared for opening up before him. He shifted directions, squeezed between the two centre-backs with a lightning dribble, and with his weak foot unleashed the only goal of the match.

Royal Rumiatzi 0–1 Urbizania Wanderers

CHAMPIONS
URBIZANIA WANDERERS
9th title

Astograth (ASG) qualifiers
Champions League: Royal Rumiatzi, Iturributa United
Challengers Cup: Gortz United, Sporting Iturributa, Urbizania Wanderers
Liga B Champions Trophy: Uidio Mariners, Royal Arexa, East Railway
Cup Winners’ Cup: Urbizania Wanderers

Copa de Campeones: Royal Rumiatzi

by **Astograth** » Sat Aug 19, 2023 9:37 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 696 Review

The 51st season of the Astograthian Football League is now concluded.

First Division

Blue Mountain Range have won the First Division.

This has never been true in any of the prior 47 seasons that BMR have competed in the First Division. In the league’s all-time table, they are by far the team with most points and most matches played to have – until now – never won the title. They have played significantly more matches in the Astograthian top flight than Sporting Iturributa (7 titles), Iturributa United (8 titles), Astograth University (2 titles), Gortz United (1 title), and even their greatest, cross-town rivals, Echegoyan FC (3 titles). Founding members of the First Division, Blue Mountain Range have become a byword for many things – stability, mediocrity, violence, physicality, defensive excellence – but never success. They could not have been further from success, and for decades their only medal was the right to keep trying.

The last time Blue Mountain Range enjoyed real success and recognition was in the 570s – 120 years ago – when their home duchy of Echegoyan was still an independent state and every season was a bloody, mud-spattered battle between BMR and Echegoyan FC. In those years, it was legendary BMR manager Bikendi Goizurieta who first brought Rejistanian karela to what is now Astograth. Localised as ichita, that tactical ethos of ultradefense remains as core a part of BMR’s identity as unrepentant gamesmanship and the pleasure of ending a too-clever winger’s career.

This drought lasted until the Taeshani Connection. BMR’s commitment to system karela has, over the years, earned them a rabid fanbase across the waters of Rushmore, in the frigid country of Taeshan. The board finally capitalised on this in 685, signing former Taeshani national team manager Xander McDrew to lead the team. McDrew got off to a solid but unspectacular start, keeping them within the upper half of the table while he streamlined the club’s academy, expanded their scouting network, and built a squad to his exacting specifications. This included bringing in Teshani national team captain Daigo Coshan at centre-back and eventually his teammate, left-back Santiago Santiago. McDrew led them to place fifth in 688 and qualify to a top-level international competition for the first time. In 690 they finished 3rd and won the Royal Cup – unimaginable success. In 691 they finished 3rd, and in 692 again 3rd – and for the first time in living memory, BMR fans felt a spark in their chests. Ambition! For the first time in 50-plus seasons, they sensed the chance of being champions not as a theoretical possibility, but within grasp.

They spent the entire length of this season trading the leadership with Iturributa United and Sporting Iturributa, awaiting with breathless tension the moment when they would finally drop away and out of the race. They had definitely lost the head-to-head tiebreaker to both teams early into the second round of the tournament, yet they consistently remained on top or nearly there.

On the 37th matchday, BMR were in a position to win the First Division with a match to go. 2 points clear of Sporting Iturributa, 3 ahead of Iturributa United, Blue Mountain Range visited 15th-placed Astograth University and received a 1−0 defeat. Sporting Iturributa also stumbled, drawing 1−1 at Ituraitz Victory, but Iturributa United beat Uidio Mariners 2−1 and took the lead on head-to-head results.

Most BMR faithful figured that was it. If Iturributa United won their last match they would be champions no matter what Or, if they really screwed up, Sporting Iturributa could take it. The league would, as it often did, come down to one of the two Iturributan giants. Miracles did not happen to Blue Mountain Range. Epic comebacks and triumphant resolutions were not in the realm of possibility.

On the final matchday, BMR played at home, at the venerable 140-year-old Ximun Orieta Sporting Ground, against a relegated Athletic Club Rumiatzi. Iturributa United played at Bakartirla Buccaneers while Sporting Iturributa received Sporting Arkamo; none of their opponents played for anything.

It took 13 minutes for both Sporting and United to get ahead. In the 27th and 30th minute, goals by Hori Larraniaga and Tehmina Palani unexpectedly put United behind 2−1; Sporting scored another.

Half-time of the final matchday:
Blue Mountain Range 0−0 Athletic Club Rumiatzi
Bakartirla Buccaneers 2−1 Iturributa United
Sporting Iturributa 2−0 Sporting Arkamo

Sporting first with 73 points, Blue Mountain Range second with 72, Iturributa United third with 71.

The second half proved cagey for all, and a dread that usually went repressed crept into Blue Mountain Range’s stands. The goal was not materialising, and indeed it seemed as if Athletic Club Rumiatzi were closer to scoring on them. They were doing it again, failing at the last. There was no pretending their hearts were too hardened to feel the disappointment. In the 66th minute, Sporting scored again, putting themselves 3−0 up. That result was out of the question, much though Arkamo pulled one back ten minutes later.

BMR had no option but to win. Spurred by the substitution of box-to-box midfielder Rosalia Prince into the match, Blue Mountain Range put the sword to Athletic Club Rumiatzi – chasing every ball, taking every chance. The hysteria mounted in the aged, mismatched stands of the Ximun Orieta Sporting Ground.

In the 84th minute, yet another attack was deflected out of the box by Athletic’s Zoiartze Sarry. Danni Reed picked it up near the half-way line and, with her eye on the mass of players gathered outside the box, struck a long, fast cross toward its centre. Most rushed back toward the goal. Forward Anaia Olabegogaeskoecha, spotting that with his height he could reach it before then, stayed put and jumped with his back to goal. He managed to just barely catch the ball with his head, directing it toward the right flank of the box – precisely where winger Gorka Urtaran could run it down, reach it before the keeper, and slot in a winning goal.

The tension of 50 titleless seasons exploded with a vengeance.

Blue Mountain Range would be champions if they could keep their win and Iturributa United did not turn around their match. On BMR’s end, that was easy enough – defending is what they were born to do, and they saw it out.

However, in the 91st minute, Nikita Apostolov scored an equaliser for Iturributa United against Bakartirla Buccaneers. The remaining 6 minutes of stoppage at Bakartirla were the longest that BMR has ever felt, but even with Pristina Shine hounding the box, even bringing goalkeeper Victor Aguiar up for two corners, Iturributa United could not score a winner.

The lineup that delivered Blue Mountain Range the title on that day at the Ximun Orieta Sporting Ground has already been immortalised, their pictures framed and hung on pubs and restaurants throughout Echegoyan and the deep valleys of the Blue Mountains. Ioritz Idoy, the young goalkeeper brought in this year from AC Olarria; Zeruko Eztanga, a proud product of their own academy; Azeari Iturria, fan favourite and marshal of the defence; Dulanto Bermichea, the fresh-faced centre-back from Urbitzo on which McDrew took a gamble; Aristide Quickley, the qolossal Qasdeni; captain Danni Reed, who arrived a decade ago as an unknown quantity from Quintessence of Dust and has bloomed into the pride of Blue Mountain Range; Benjamin Bruenig, long-time builder of play from the middle of the pitch; Erramune Lahietete, discarded from Iturributa United and moulded by McDrew into a fearless ball-winner; Ortze Ohets, a too-clever winger that has livened BMR’s ground like they forgot was possible; Anaia Olabegogaeskoecha, a target man like they just don’t make anymore; Rosalia Prince, the utility woman who came on to turn the match on its head. And, of course, Gorka Urtaran, the one-club loyalist whose curly hair and moustache had already made him an icon before becoming the man who won them the league.

Delirious fans hacked away at the pitch to cut out the patch of grass where Urtaran struck the ball, parading it with the team. Interviewed by TV crews, weeping pensioners wrapped in sky-blue recalled their parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, brothers and sisters – the people who weren’t there or anywhere, but had deserved to see the moment when their club touched the sky, at last.

Taldo Lehan                Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Blue Mountain Range      38   23   5  10    39   21  +18    74 Champions / Copa de Campeones / Champions League
 2 Sporting Iturributa      38   23   4  11    49   22  +27    73 Champions League
 3 Iturributa United        38   21   9   8    62   38  +24    72 Challengers Cup
 4 Urbizania Wanderers      38   21   6  11    56   32  +24    69 Challengers Cup
 5 Royal Rumiatzi           38   19  11   8    71   34  +37    68 Challengers Cup
 6 Ituraitz Victory         38   19   8  11    63   44  +19    65
 7 Gortz United             38   17  10  11    71   46  +25    61
 8 Bakartirla Buccaneers    38   17  10  11    54   47   +7    61
 9 Sporting Arkamo          38   19   4  15    56   50   +6    61
10 Royal Ibarbe             38   17   8  13    42   34   +8    59
11 Antiguoko FC             38   18   5  15    57   53   +4    59
12 Oyardo FC                38   17   7  14    44   47   −3    58
13 Ituraitz FC              38   14   8  16    44   58  −14    50
14 Athletic Club Olarria    38   13   8  17    42   52  −10    47
15 Astograth University     38   12   6  20    33   49  −16    42
16 Royal Arexa              38    9   8  21    45   68  −23    35
17 Echegoyan FC             38    8   8  22    41   67  −26    32
18 Athletic Club Rumiatzi   38    6  10  22    26   64  −38    28 ↓ 2-year run
19 Iturributa Racing Club   38    7   6  25    32   70  −38    27 ↓ 1-year run
20 Uidio Mariners           38    5   9  24    32   63  −31    24 ↓ 1-year run

CHAMPIONS
BLUE MOUNTAIN RANGE
1st title

Second Division

East Railway, relegated from the First Division two seasons ago, expected to bounce back quickly but suffered heartbreak last year, pipped to auomatic promotion by a point and then knocked out in the promotion playoffs. Nevertheless, they have rallied under new manager Frantz Ormache and will be hoping to return to their previously comfortable position in the top flight midtable. Joining them will be Miners FC, who have spent 6 seasons out in the cold, and playoff winners Ximun Orieta FC, who stubbornly yo-yo back into the First Division after one season.

Taldo Biharran            Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 East Railway            46   29  10   7    81   33  +48    97 ↑ Champions / Liga B Champions Trophy
 2 Miners FC               46   27  12   7    64   28  +36    93 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 3 Ximun Orieta FC         46   27  12   7    61   31  +30    93 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 4 Sporting Ibarguren      46   25  11  10    68   32  +36    86
 5 Garitzeta Racing Club   46   23  17   6    62   29  +33    86
 6 Urizaharra FC           46   24  13   9    68   40  +28    85
 7 Ezkutia MFC             46   23  12  11    65   38  +27    81
 8 Ibarbe Sport            46   23  10  13    64   46  +18    79
 9 Urbitzo FC              46   22  12  12    76   38  +38    78
10 Garitzeta FC            46   21  11  14    67   54  +13    74
11 Sporting Olarria        46   19  10  17    51   51    0    67
12 Army United             46   18   8  20    72   82  −10    62
13 Nabarrieta FC           46   13  14  19    41   48   −7    53
14 FAS SC                  46   12  15  19    57   72  −15    51
15 Old City Central        46   14   9  23    50   71  −21    51
16 Basabe Old Boys         46   12  14  20    38   56  −18    50
17 Erribe United           46   13  10  23    49   70  −21    49
18 Iratza Fury             46   12   8  26    41   71  −30    44
19 Bizkarra Castle         46   11  11  24    40   65  −25    44
20 Eagles FC               46   11  10  25    44   73  −29    43
21 Progress Athletic       46   11   8  27    49   80  −31    41 ↓ Relegated
22 Uraldea Shipyard        46   10  10  26    35   64  −29    40 ↓ Relegated
23 Gortz Academy           46   10  10  26    36   66  −30    40 ↓ Relegated
24 Ichapeldun Mariners     46    8  11  27    33   74  −41    35 ↓ Relegated

Promotion Playoffs

Semifinals
Urizaharra FC 0–0 Ximun Orieta FC
Garitzeta Racing Club 0–2 Sporting Ibarguren

Ximun Orieta FC 3–0 Urizaharra FC (3–0 agg.)
Sporting Ibarguren 2–0 Garitzeta Racing Club (4–0 agg.)

Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Ximun Orieta FC 1–0 Sporting Ibarguren

Second Division B

New Second Division B champions Arbetsana Crossing will return to the second tier after 15 years, while runners-up Muitago Union will be making their début in the competition from next year. Also promoted were Royal Association, for whom it has been 6 long seasons since dropping to this division for the first time, and Ermarretza United, whose début dalliance with the Second Division ended 3 seasons ago.

East Group

Taldo Biharran B East     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Arbetsana Crossing      46   32   8   6    78   43  +35   104 ↑ Promoted
 2 Royal Association       46   27  10   9    66   34  +32    91 ↑ Promoted
 3 Gesterlake FC           46   25   8  13    74   44  +30    83
 4 Mars Athletic           46   25   8  13    61   35  +26    83
 5 Dockyard Oaks           46   23  13  10    69   46  +23    82
 6 Otabera United          46   25   4  17    61   43  +18    79
 7 Cafundelense            46   22  12  12    62   36  +26    78
 8 Basabe Youth            46   22  11  13    68   42  +26    77
 9 Baker's Eleven          46   21  11  14    53   39  +14    74
10 Lermendia FC            46   20  13  13    57   43  +14    73
11 Chabeitzio FC           46   21  10  15    62   46  +16    73
12 Ezkalmendia FC          46   17  16  13    64   50  +14    67
13 United of Langaraitz    46   20   6  20    55   56   −1    66
14 Landaluz Casuals        46   18  11  17    54   41  +13    65
15 International FC        46   17  11  18    48   59  −11    62
16 Athletic Club Basabe    46   15   9  22    49   67  −18    54
17 Freedom FC              46   14   8  24    48   72  −24    50
18 Uertza Gymnastic        46   13   8  25    54   68  −14    47
19 Galarra Youth           46   10  14  22    44   62  −18    44
20 General Errekart        46   12   7  27    39   80  −41    43
21 Zendariano Railway      46    9  14  23    31   63  −32    41 ↓ Relegated
22 Madarinda Sunrise       46    8  11  27    27   71  −44    35 ↓ Relegated
23 Black Stallion          46    8   8  30    34   71  −37    32 ↓ Relegated
24 Larrinoa Yellow-Green   46    6  13  27    28   75  −47    31 ↓ Relegated

West Group

Taldo Biharran B West     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Muitago Union           46   33   4   9    87   34  +53   103 ↑ Champions / Promoted
 2 Ermarretza United       46   27   6  13    67   46  +21    87 ↑ Promoted
 3 Phoenix Athletic        46   24   8  14    71   46  +25    80
 4 Athletic Club Yokano    46   24   8  14    69   49  +20    80
 5 San Markez              46   23   7  16    73   59  +14    76
 6 Malgor Union            46   23   7  16    75   50  +25    76
 7 Echegoyan Railway       46   21  11  14    61   50  +11    74
 8 Fort Saint Oskia        46   19  14  13    57   42  +15    71
 9 Ametzanga Valour        46   21   6  19    54   47   +7    69
10 South Factory           46   20   8  18    66   55  +11    68
11 Okerruri FC             46   17  15  14    60   52   +8    66
12 Sporting Igerreitio     46   18  11  17    60   67   −7    65
13 Amanka FC               46   19   8  19    48   57   −9    65
14 Dockside Casuals        46   16  11  19    48   61  −13    59
15 Red Star Echegoyan      46   14  15  17    52   62  −10    57
16 Chopbiren FC            46   15  10  21    55   63   −8    55
17 Kingdom Sporting        46   15  10  21    45   57  −12    55
18 Maniarrieta Workers'    46   13  14  19    53   65  −12    53
19 Saint Lander            46   15   8  23    38   62  −24    53
20 Ertzanga FC             46   14  10  22    55   68  −13    52
21 Rumiatzi 529            46   13  10  23    50   73  −23    49 ↓ Relegated
22 Leizaran River          46   12   9  25    45   67  −22    45 ↓ Relegated
23 Ardinbar Glory          46   10  13  23    45   68  −23    43 ↓ Relegated
24 Orontzo United          46   10   9  27    33   67  −34    39 ↓ Relegated

Championship Final – East vs. West
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Muitago Union 1–0 Arbetsana Crossing

Promotion Playoffs
Phoenix Athletic 1–2 Royal Association
Gesterlake FC 1–0 Ermarretza United

Royal Association 1–1 Phoenix Athletic (3–2 agg.)
Ermarretza United 2–0 Gesterlake FC (2–1 agg.)

The Royal Cup

One-legged ties. First and Second Division teams enter at the Round of 64, and the former are seeded for that and the following round. If clubs have a two-tier difference or greater, the lower-tier team will play at home.

Round of 64 (select matches)
Arbetsana Crossing 1–3 Astograth University
Muitago Union 2–2 Iturributa Racing Club (3–3 AET) (1–3 pen.)
Urbizania Wanderers 0–0 Garitzeta Racing Club (1–0 AET)
Ituraitz FC 0–1 Ezkutia MFC
Iturributa United 1–1 Army United (2–1 AET)
Sporting Uanka 0–3 Gortz United
Iratza Fury 2–2 Royal Arexa (3–2 AET)
Urizaharra FC 1–3 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Ichapeldun Mariners 2–2 Sporting Arkamo (2–2 AET) (1–4 pen.)
Freedom FC 1–0 Sporting Iturributa
Sporting Olarria 2–0 Antiguoko FC
Nabarrieta FC 1–3 Echegoyan FC
Baker's Eleven 1–3 Athletic Club Olarria
Uidio Mariners 2–0 Basabe Old Boys
San Markez 2–0 Royal Ibarbe
Mars Athletic 2–4 Royal Rumiatzi
Ituraitz Victory 0–2 Sporting Ibarguren
Blue Mountain Range 1–0 Eagles FC
Bizkarra Castle 2–1 Athletic Club Rumiatzi
Gesterlake FC 2–0 Oyardo FC

Round of 32
Red Star Echegoyan 0–1 Iturributa Racing Club
Black Stallion 0–1 Sporting Arkamo
Ibarbe Sport 1–0 Astograth University
Athletic Club Olarria 0–2 Uraldea Shipyard
Chopbiren FC 1–0 Blue Mountain Range
East Railway 0–2 Gortz United
San Markez 2–2 Iturributa United (2–2 AET) (2–4 pen.)
Echegoyan Railway 0–2 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Miners FC 2–1 Uidio Mariners
Sporting Igerreitio 1–0 Royal Rumiatzi
Iratza Fury 1–1 Echegoyan FC (1–2 AET)
Gesterlake FC 0–2 Urbizania Wanderers
Sporting Ibarguren 2–0 Erribe United
FAS SC 1–2 Sporting Olarria
Bizkarra Castle 0–1 Ezkutia MFC
Urbitzo FC 3–0 Freedom FC

Round of 16
Ibarbe Sport 3–0 Chopbiren FC
Sporting Igerreitio 0–1 Sporting Olarria
Miners FC 2–1 Echegoyan FC
Urbitzo FC 1–0 Urbizania Wanderers
Uraldea Shipyard 1–0 Sporting Ibarguren
Bakartirla Buccaneers 2–1 Ezkutia MFC
Sporting Arkamo 0–3 Iturributa Racing Club
Iturributa United 1–1 Gortz United (2–2 AET) (4–3 pen.)

Quarterfinals
Ibarbe Sport 1–0 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Iturributa United 3–1 Sporting Olarria
Uraldea Shipyard 0–1 Miners FC
Iturributa Racing Club 3–2 Urbitzo FC

Semifinals
Iturributa United 2–0 Miners FC
Iturributa Racing Club 2–0 Ibarbe Sport

The Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi

No one expected much out of Iturributa Racing Club this season. Rarely does anyone, even their most devoted fans. An ancient club – the oldest in Astograth, if you count non-football activities – Iturributa Racing have struggled in recent decades to remain relevant, mostly languishing in the second tier while their support is sapped away by Iturributa United and Sporting Iturributa. Their accomplishments are dusty, their place in the world a question mark. Racing were traditionally supported and bankrolled by the Iturributan nobility, a caste that has been twice wiped out in the last century – first by their hostile incorporation into the nascent Grand Duchy of Astograth, second by the revolutionary fervor that seceded from Astograth and established a Republic of Iturributa for 15 years. Even Racing’s owners, the notoriously absent Legaspi family of mining billionaires, are rumoured to in fact be fans of Sporting or United, merely using Racing as cheap pawns of the sporting world.

With a manager inexperienced in the top flight and a squad cobbled together from scraps and cast-offs, Racing were duly beaten down and relegated from the First Division this season. Yet in the Royal Cup, circumstances conspired to knock out many of the top contenders early in the competition and hand Racing relatively easy draws all the way to the final. Their greatest challenge was fellow top-flight team Sporting Arkamo, whom Racing beat with a resounding 3–0 away in the Round of 16. In the quarterfinals and semifinals they faced two Second Division sides in Urbitzo FC and Ibarbe Sport. Surprising even themselves, Racing found themselves in the final for the first time.

Their opponents were Iturributa United, third-placed in the First Division and raring to go after being beaten to the league title in dramatic fashion. After struggling against lower-league opposition in the early rounds, United switched on and toppled a serious cup contender in Gortz United, before this unusually weak edition of the tournament gave them Sporting Olarria and Miners FC in the quarterfinals and semifinals, both of them from the second tier.

This set up a lesser Iturributan derby in the Royal Cup final, hundreds of kilometres away in the national capital of Rumiatzi. Two old enemies faced off, and not for the first time in a cup final. Elder fans would have remembered the year 647 and its first edition of the President’s Cup, the Republic of Iturributa’s national cup tournament, in which Racing beat United 2–1 on aggregate with goals from Litzar Biteri and Berasko Arechaga.

Romantics may have hoped for a repeat 49 years later, but Racing’s hopes were all but shelved in the first half. A long through ball to left-back Palla Jagidar, operating high, allowed to her to creep into a one-on-one and score with 19 minutes on the clock. This was followed by a quick-fire brace from veteran Chromatik winger Fangti Pikolaugh in the 31st and 34th minutes. On the cusp of half-time, a one-two in the box between Nikita Apostolov and Pristina Shine led to the latter scoring on an open goal, making it 4–0.

Justin Vauxhall’s United evidently relaxed after half-time, and for a moment it seemed as if complacency might go punished. Precious midfielder Sein Lizaraso, on loan from Royal Rumiatzi, got one back for Racing in the 70th minute, taking a shot from outside the box that was deflected in by United’s Ilazki Orrego. This fired up Racing, but United were quick to react and close down, denying Racing anything more until the dying minutes of the match. In stoppage time, Racing’s Erramu Gogeaskoechea – who previously left United in a row over prolonged benching and ill-fated loans – flicked in a corner that was played to the near post, setting the score at a somewhat more dignified 4–2.

For Iturributa United, their 6th Royal Cup – their second in four seasons – is some balm to the wound that was losing the league to Blue Mountain Range. To Iturributa Racing Club, it is a yet more bitter end to the season, as they prepare to plunge back into the Second Division and plot out an uncertain future.

Iturributa United 4–2 Iturributa Racing Club

CHAMPIONS
ITURRIBUTA UNITED
6th title

Astograth (ASG) qualifiers
Champions League: Blue Mountain Range, Sporting Iturributa
Challengers Cup: Iturributa United, Urbizania Wanderers, Royal Rumiatzi
Liga B Champions Trophy: East Railway, Miners FC, Ximun Orieta FC
Cup Winners’ Cup: Iturributa United

Copa de Campeones: Blue Mountain Range

by **Astograth** » Fri Nov 03, 2023 11:40 am

The Astograthian Football League
Season 697 Review

The 52nd season of the Astograthian Football League is now concluded.

First Division

Taldo Lehan               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Sporting Iturributa     38   23  10   5    51   18  +33    79 Champions / Copa de Campeones / Champions League
 2 Blue Mountain Range     38   22  11   5    41   16  +25    77 Challengers Cup
 3 Iturributa United       38   23   8   7    72   40  +32    77 Challengers Cup
 4 Gortz United            38   23   6   9    51   28  +23    75 Challengers Cup
 5 Royal Rumiatzi          38   20  10   8    77   43  +34    70
 6 Sporting Arkamo         38   16  12  10    57   43  +14    60
 7 Urbizania Wanderers     38   16  11  11    47   26  +21    59
 8 Bakartirla Buccaneers   38   17   7  14    56   51   +5    58
 9 Royal Ibarbe            38   15  10  13    43   33  +10    55
10 Ituraitz FC             38   15   9  14    58   62   −4    54
11 Ituraitz Victory        38   15   6  17    44   55  −11    51
12 Oyardo FC               38   14   8  16    49   45   +4    50
13 Antiguoko FC            38   13  10  15    40   42   −2    49
14 Athletic Club Olarria   38   11  12  15    43   51   −8    45
15 Ximun Orieta FC         38   10  10  18    20   45  −25    40
16 Astograth University    38   10   8  20    25   48  −23    38
17 East Railway            38    8   7  23    29   59  −30    31
18 Royal Arexa             38    8   6  24    42   73  −31    30 ↓ 2-year run
19 Echegoyan FC            38    8   5  25    29   67  −38    29 ↓ 6-year run
20 Miners FC               38    6   8  24    23   52  −29    26 ↓ 1-year run

CHAMPIONS
SPORTING ITURRIBUTA
8th title

Second Division

Taldo Biharran             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Ezkutia MFC              44   24  13   7    71   38  +33    85 ↑ Champions / Liga B Champions Trophy
 2 Garitzeta Racing Club    44   26   5  13    62   37  +25    83 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 3 Ibarbe Sport             44   23  13   8    70   42  +28    82  Liga B Champions Trophy
 4 Urizaharra FC            44   22  12  10    77   45  +32    78 ↑ Promoted
 5 Sporting Ibarguren       44   22  11  11    60   39  +21    77
 6 Athletic Club Rumiatzi   44   21  13  10    72   51  +21    76
 7 Urbitzo FC               44   22   9  13    73   40  +33    75
 8 Garitzeta FC             44   19  15  10    57   43  +14    72
 9 Iturributa Racing Club   44   20  11  13    63   48  +15    71
10 Old City Central         44   18  11  15    54   51   +3    65
11 Uidio Mariners           44   15  19  10    45   36   +9    64
12 Sporting Olarria         44   17  12  15    46   47   −1    63
13 Arbetsana Crossing       44   17  12  15    50   51   −1    63
14 Army United              44   17  12  15    69   67   +2    63
15 FAS SC                   44   17  10  17    48   51   −3    61
16 Royal Association        44   15  10  19    44   51   −7    55
17 Nabarrieta FC            44   14  11  19    49   60  −11    53
18 Muitago Union            44   13  13  18    44   54  −10    52
19 Eagles FC                44   12   7  25    44   80  −36    43
20 Ermarretza United        44   11   9  24    39   69  −30    42
21 Erribe United            44    8  11  25    33   60  −27    35 ↓ Relegated
22 Iratza Fury              44    7  11  26    37   78  −41    32 ↓ Relegated
23 Bizkarra Castle          44    7  10  27    32   65  −33    31 ↓ Relegated
24 Basabe Old Boys          44    6  10  28    30   66  −36    28 ↓ Relegated

Promotion Playoffs

Semifinals
Athletic Club Rumiatzi 3–4 Ibarbe Sport
Sporting Ibarguren 2–0 Urizaharra FC

Ibarbe Sport 0–0 Athletic Club Rumiatzi (4–3 agg.)
Urizaharra FC 3–0 Sporting Ibarguren (3–2 agg.)

Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Ibarbe Sport 0–1 Urizaharra FC

Second Division B

East Group

Taldo Biharran B East     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Dockyard Oaks           46   31   7   8    76   35  +41   100 ↑ Champions
 2 Mars Athletic           46   28  11   7    68   37  +31    95 ↑ Promoted
 3 Lermendia FC            46   25  11  10    73   42  +31    86 ↑ Promoted
 4 Uraldea Shipyard        46   23  11  12    59   34  +25    80
 5 Otabera United          46   22  14  10    59   36  +23    80
 6 Chabeitzio FC           46   24   7  15    60   41  +19    79
 7 Baker's Eleven          46   23   8  15    60   47  +13    77
 8 Basabe Youth            46   21  12  13    56   41  +15    75
 9 Gesterlake FC           46   21  10  15    54   43  +11    73
10 Yorunda FC              46   19  13  14    52   51   +1    70
11 Landaluz Casuals        46   19  11  16    53   51   +2    68
12 United of Langaraitz    46   17  15  14    49   47   +2    66
13 Cafundelense            46   16  17  13    54   47   +7    65
14 Ezkalmendia FC          46   16  16  14    55   53   +2    64
15 Boka Youths             46   17   9  20    45   52   −7    60
16 International FC        46   17   8  21    62   65   −3    59
17 Uertza Gymnastic        46   14  15  17    43   41   +2    57
18 Galazara United         46   10  19  17    47   58  −11    49
19 Athletic Club Basabe    46   11  13  22    42   62  −20    46
20 General Errekart        46   12   8  26    48   75  −27    44
21 Galarra Youth           46    8  10  28    26   70  −44    34 ↓ Relegated
22 Zorrostegia Wanderers   46    7  13  26    38   73  −35    34 ↓ Relegated
23 Freedom FC              46    8   7  31    40   70  −30    31 ↓ Relegated
24 Riverside Athletic      46    4  13  29    25   73  −48    25 ↓ Relegated

West Group

Taldo Biharran B West     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Phoenix Athletic        46   27  10   9    71   40  +31    91 ↑ Promoted
 2 San Markez              46   25  12   9    81   43  +38    87
 3 Malgor Union            46   24  12  10    67   42  +25    84
 4 Gortz Academy           46   24   6  16    58   46  +12    78
 5 Echegoyan Railway       46   22  11  13    66   47  +19    77
 6 Athletic Club Yokano    46   21  13  12    69   42  +27    76
 7 Progress Athletic       46   20  16  10    66   40  +26    76
 8 Okerruri FC             46   21  13  12    53   41  +12    76
 9 Amanka FC               46   20  10  16    58   51   +7    70
10 Ichapeldun Mariners     46   17  16  13    57   40  +17    67
11 Fort Saint Oskia        46   17  11  18    50   46   +4    62
12 Chopbiren FC            46   16  13  17    49   52   −3    61
13 Ametzanga Valour        46   16  12  18    53   62   −9    60
14 South Factory           46   15  13  18    49   65  −16    58
15 Sporting Igerreitio     46   15  12  19    47   59  −12    57
16 Mendibitza FC           46   15  10  21    35   48  −13    55
17 Dockside Casuals        46   15  10  21    38   52  −14    55
18 Markina Whitewater      46   13  13  20    52   62  −10    52
19 Duronio Riverside       46   12  15  19    36   50  −14    51
20 Ertzanga FC             46   12  14  20    54   75  −21    50
21 Saint Lander            46   13   9  24    43   66  −23    48 ↓ Relegated
22 Red Star Echegoyan      46   13   8  25    44   63  −19    47 ↓ Relegated
23 Maniarrieta Workers'    46    9  15  22    38   70  −32    42 ↓ Relegated
24 Kingdom Sporting        46    9   8  29    41   73  −32    35 ↓ Relegated

Championship Final – East vs. West
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Dockyard Oaks 2–0 Phoenix Athletic

Promotion Playoffs
Malgor Union 1–2 Mars Athletic
Lermendia FC 1–2 San Markez

Mars Athletic 1–0 Malgor Union (3–1 agg.)
San Markez 2–3 Lermendia FC (2–4 AET, 4–5 agg.)

The Royal Cup

One-legged ties. First and Second Division teams enter at the Round of 64, and the former are seeded for that and the following round. If clubs have a two-tier difference or greater, the lower-tier team will play at home.

Round of 64 (select matches)
Ezkalmendia FC 1–0 Iturributa United
Zorrostegia Wanderers 0–1 Ituraitz FC
Urbizania Wanderers 1–0 Eagles FC
Ertzanga FC 1–1 Miners FC (1–1 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Echegoyan FC 1–0 Erribe United
Ezkutia MFC 2–0 Sporting Iturributa
Riverside Athletic 0–0 Gortz United (0–2 AET)
Ibarbe Sport 1–1 Astograth University (1–3 AET)
Modraine Marauders 0–0 Oyardo FC (0–1 AET)
Mars Athletic 5–3 Royal Arexa
Urbitzo FC 0–4 Ituraitz Victory
Basabe Youth 1–0 Royal Ibarbe
Baker's Eleven 0–1 Royal Rumiatzi
East Railway 1–3 Sporting Ibarguren
Ichapeldun Mariners 1–0 Sporting Arkamo
Sporting Olarria 0–1 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Uraldea Shipyard 2–1 Athletic Club Olarria
Athletic Club Rumiatzi 1–3 Blue Mountain Range
Gortz Academy 1–2 Ximun Orieta FC
Urizaharra FC 2–0 Antiguoko FC

Round of 32
Uertza Gymnastic 2–3 Echegoyan FC
Arbetsana Crossing 0–1 Gortz United
Ximun Orieta FC 1–2 Sporting Ibarguren
Ichapeldun Mariners 0–2 Oyardo FC
Basabe Youth 1–3 Astograth University
Ertzanga FC 1–1 Ituraitz Victory (1–2 AET)
Uraldea Shipyard 2–3 Blue Mountain Range
Ezkalmendia FC 2–4 Ituraitz FC
Urizaharra FC 1–3 Royal Rumiatzi
Dockside Casuals 0–0 Urbizania Wanderers (0–0 AET) (3–5 pen.)
Garitzeta FC 2–1 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Basabe Old Boys 2–0 Ermarretza United
Mars Athletic 2–4 Ezkutia MFC
Uidio Mariners 0–2 Iturributa Racing Club
Red Star Echegoyan 2–0 Garitzeta Racing Club
Royal Association 0–0 Athletic Club Basabe (0–0 AET) (1–3 pen.)

Round of 16
Ituraitz FC 4–2 Oyardo FC
Astograth University 2–0 Blue Mountain Range
Echegoyan FC 1–1 Basabe Old Boys (1–1 AET) (5–6 pen.)
Gortz United 1–0 Iturributa Racing Club
Red Star Echegoyan 0–1 Royal Rumiatzi
Urbizania Wanderers 2–2 Ituraitz Victory (3–2 AET)
Sporting Ibarguren 0–0 Garitzeta FC (0–1 AET)
Athletic Club Basabe 0–2 Ezkutia MFC

Quarterfinals
Basabe Old Boys 3–4 Ituraitz FC
Garitzeta FC 1–2 Urbizania Wanderers
Royal Rumiatzi 1–0 Gortz United
Ezkutia MFC 0–1 Astograth University

Semifinals
Ituraitz FC 1–2 Royal Rumiatzi
Urbizania Wanderers 2–0 Astograth University

The Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi

Royal Rumiatzi 1–2 Urbizania Wanderers

CHAMPIONS
URBIZANIA WANDERERS
10th title

Astograth (ASG) qualifiers
Champions League: Sporting Iturributa
Challengers Cup: Blue Mountain Range, Iturributa United, Gortz United
Liga B Champions Trophy: Ezkutia MFC, Garitzeta Racing Club, Ibarbe Sport
Cup Winners’ Cup: Urbizania Wanderers

Copa de Campeones: Sporting Iturributa

by **Astograth** » Sun Jan 28, 2024 9:06 am

The Astograthian Football League
Season 698 Review

The 53rd season of the Astograthian Football League is now concluded.

First Division

Taldo Lehan               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Royal Rumiatzi          38   26   3   9    64   24  +40    81 Champions / Copa de Campeones / Champions League
 2 Sporting Iturributa     38   23   8   7    63   31  +32    77 Challengers Cup
 3 Gortz United            38   21  12   5    61   31  +30    75 Challengers Cup
 4 Iturributa United       38   22   8   8    66   35  +31    74 Challengers Cup
 5 Ituraitz Victory        38   20  11   7    58   28  +30    71
 6 Antiguoko FC            38   19   9  10    53   40  +13    66
 7 Sporting Arkamo         38   16  10  12    45   40   +5    58
 8 Blue Mountain Range     38   15  11  12    50   39  +11    56
 9 Urbizania Wanderers     38   15   9  14    44   40   +4    54
10 Royal Ibarbe            38   16   5  17    38   49  −11    53
11 Ituraitz FC             38   14  10  14    45   42   +3    52
12 Bakartirla Buccaneers   38   15   7  16    37   40   −3    52
13 Oyardo FC               38   15   5  18    39   47   −8    50
14 Garitzeta Racing Club   38   13   5  20    33   50  −17    44
15 Astograth University    38   11   9  18    31   57  −26    42
16 Athletic Club Olarria   38   11   8  19    41   59  −18    41
17 Ximun Orieta FC         38    8  11  19    32   47  −15    35
18 Ibarbe Sport            38    6  10  22    17   53  −36    28 ↓ 1-year run
19 Ezkutia MFC             38    6   7  25    21   58  −37    25 ↓ 1-year run
20 East Railway            38    5   8  25    22   50  −28    23 ↓ 2-year run

CHAMPIONS
ROYAL RUMIATZI
13th title

Second Division

Taldo Biharran             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Royal Arexa              46   33   7   6    81   25  +56   106 ↑ Champions / Liga B Champions Trophy
 2 Sporting Ibarguren       46   29   9   8    78   41  +37    96 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 3 Urbitzo FC               46   28   8  10    72   39  +33    92  Liga B Champions Trophy
 4 Echegoyan FC             46   26   8  12    78   47  +31    86
 5 Urizaharra FC            46   22  11  13    76   48  +28    77 ↑ Promoted
 6 Garitzeta FC             46   21  14  11    58   39  +19    77
 7 Sporting Olarria         46   22   7  17    60   54   +6    73
 8 Athletic Club Rumiatzi   46   19  15  12    55   40  +15    72
 9 Iturributa Racing Club   46   20  11  15    59   44  +15    71
10 Miners FC                46   19  11  16    56   46  +10    68
11 Old City Central         46   15  16  15    50   51   −1    61
12 Uidio Mariners           46   15  14  17    54   68  −14    59
13 Army United              46   16   9  21    59   66   −7    57
14 Mars Athletic            46   14  12  20    47   59  −12    54
15 Arbetsana Crossing       46   15   9  22    48   74  −26    54
16 Muitago Union            46   13  15  18    41   56  −15    54
17 Nabarrieta FC            46   14  10  22    44   64  −20    52
18 Eagles FC                46   14   9  23    39   55  −16    51
19 Royal Association        46   12  14  20    40   60  −20    50
20 Lermendia FC             46   13  11  22    37   61  −24    50
21 Dockyard Oaks            46   11  15  20    44   55  −11    48 ↓ Relegated
22 FAS SC                   46   12   9  25    42   56  −14    45 ↓ Relegated
23 Phoenix Athletic         46   11   7  28    46   73  −27    40 ↓ Relegated
24 Ermarretza United        46    9   7  30    28   71  −43    34 ↓ Relegated

Promotion Playoffs
Semifinals
Garitzeta FC 2–0 Urbitzo FC
Urizaharra FC 1–0 Echegoyan FC

Urbitzo FC 0–0 Garitzeta FC (0–2 agg.)
Echegoyan FC 2–2 Urizaharra FC (2–3 agg.)

Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Urizaharra FC 3–1 Garitzeta FC

Second Division B

East Group

Taldo Biharran B East  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Chabeitzio FC           46   30   6  10    85   44  +41    96 ↑ Champions
 2 Uraldea Shipyard        46   27  10   9    68   36  +32    91
 3 Baker's Eleven          46   28   7  11    69   41  +28    91
 4 Landaluz Casuals        46   25  10  11    72   47  +25    85
 5 Otabera United          46   23  12  11    59   42  +17    81
 6 Traka K/P               46   20   9  17    54   54    0    69
 7 Basabe Youth            46   18  14  14    64   50  +14    68
 8 Gesterlake FC           46   19  10  17    51   51    0    67
 9 Boka Youths             46   18  11  17    51   49   +2    65
10 United of Langaraitz    46   18  10  18    46   48   −2    64
11 Yorunda FC              46   16  16  14    54   47   +7    64
12 Ermua Spring            46   18   9  19    54   51   +3    63
13 Basabe Old Boys         46   18   9  19    51   58   −7    63
14 Iratza Fury             46   16  14  16    48   56   −8    62
15 Sporting Echabea        46   17   8  21    42   51   −9    59
16 Cafundelense            46   15  14  17    52   51   +1    59
17 Latzartea FC            46   16  10  20    56   56    0    58
18 Ezkalmendia FC          46   15  12  19    61   62   −1    57
19 Gudea Sword Club        46   13  11  22    44   57  −13    50
20 Galazara United         46   13  11  22    38   60  −22    50
21 International FC        46   10  19  17    38   48  −10    49 ↓ Relegated
22 Uertza Gymnastic        46   10  15  21    39   60  −21    45 ↓ Relegated
23 Athletic Club Basabe    46    9   9  28    32   65  −33    36 ↓ Relegated
24 General Errekart        46    7  10  29    31   75  −44    31 ↓ Relegated

West Group

Taldo Biharran B West  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 San Markez              46   29  11   6    71   26  +45    98 ↑ Promoted
 2 Malgor Union            46   25  11  10    62   39  +23    86 ↑ Promoted
 3 Progress Athletic       46   24  13   9    70   36  +34    85 ↑ Promoted
 4 Athletic Club Yokano    46   25  10  11    70   35  +35    85
 5 Okerruri FC             46   23  11  12    66   43  +23    80
 6 Gortz Academy           46   22  13  11    57   40  +17    79
 7 Amanka FC               46   19  13  14    54   47   +7    70
 8 Echegoyan Railway       46   19  13  14    53   41  +12    70
 9 Fort Saint Oskia        46   22   4  20    57   50   +7    70
10 Erribe United           46   19  13  14    65   49  +16    70
11 Ichapeldun Mariners     46   19  11  16    52   47   +5    68
12 Bizkarra Castle         46   17  14  15    53   53    0    65
13 Ametzanga Valour        46   20   5  21    52   58   −6    65
14 Modraine Marauders      46   15  16  15    47   51   −4    61
15 Dockside Casuals        46   17   8  21    50   56   −6    59
16 Mendibitza FC           46   14  12  20    38   52  −14    54
17 Basauri Victory         46   15   9  22    47   72  −25    54
18 Saint Eulari            46   12  14  20    40   61  −21    50
19 Sporting Igerreitio     46   13  10  23    39   62  −23    49
20 South Factory           46   13   8  25    44   56  −12    47
21 Markina Whitewater      46   12  11  23    43   70  −27    47 ↓ Relegated
22 Ertzanga FC             46    9  15  22    40   66  −26    42 ↓ Relegated
23 Duronio Riverside       46   10   7  29    33   65  −32    37 ↓ Relegated
24 Chopbiren FC            46    8  10  28    33   61  −28    34 ↓ Relegated

Championship Final – East vs. West
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Chabeitzio FC 2–0 San Markez

Promotion Playoffs
Progress Athletic 1–0 Uraldea Shipyard
Baker's Eleven 1–0 Malgor Union

Uraldea Shipyard 0–0 Progress Athletic (0–1 agg.)
Malgor Union 1–0 Baker's Eleven (2–1 AET, 2–2 agg., 3–1 pen.)

The Royal Cup

One-legged ties. First and Second Division teams enter at the Round of 64, and the former are seeded for that and the following round. If clubs have a two-tier difference or greater, the lower-tier team will play at home.

Round of 64 (select matches)
Fort Saint Oskia 1–1 Ituraitz Victory (1–2 AET)
Iturributa United 2–2 Army United (3–2 AET)
San Markez 1–2 Ximun Orieta FC
Uidio Mariners 2–1 East Railway
Amanka FC 1–2 Gortz United
Ituraitz FC 2–2 Athletic Club Rumiatzi (4–3 AET)
Sporting Ibarguren 0–1 Sporting Arkamo
Astograth University 1–0 Old City Central
Iturributa Racing Club 0–3 Urbizania Wanderers
Ibarbe Sport 0–1 Miners FC
Galazara United 2–2 Ezkutia MFC (2–2 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Landaluz Casuals 0–1 Antiguoko FC
Royal Ibarbe 3–0 FAS SC
Dockyard Oaks 0–0 Royal Rumiatzi (0–1 AET)
Phoenix Athletic 0–2 Sporting Iturributa
Otabera United 0–1 Athletic Club Olarria
Garitzeta Racing Club 2–1 Eagles FC
Bakartirla Buccaneers 1–2 Urbitzo FC
Lermendia FC 0–2 Blue Mountain Range
Echegoyan Railway 0–2 Oyardo FC

Round of 32
Garitzeta Racing Club 0–0 Sporting Olarria (2–0 AET)
Nabarrieta FC 1–2 Antiguoko FC
Gortz United 3–2 Muitago Union
Oyardo FC 3–1 Miners FC
Fort Buruana 0–3 Royal Rumiatzi
Urizaharra FC 0–3 Sporting Iturributa
Galazara United 2–3 Athletic Club Olarria
Astograth University 2–0 Mars Athletic
Ituraitz FC 2–0 Urbitzo FC
Fort Saint Oskia 0–1 Royal Ibarbe
Uidio Mariners 1–3 Iturributa United
Basabe Youth 2–1 Sporting Arkamo
Chabeitzio FC 0–2 Blue Mountain Range
Urbizania Wanderers 1–0 Ermarretza United
Ximun Orieta FC 0–2 Echegoyan FC
Arbetsana Crossing 1–2 Royal Arexa

Round of 16
Antiguoko FC 1–0 Urbizania Wanderers
Blue Mountain Range 0–0 Ituraitz FC (2–0 AET)
Royal Ibarbe 1–2 Sporting Iturributa
Garitzeta Racing Club 2–1 Royal Rumiatzi
Athletic Club Olarria 1–0 Astograth University
Iturributa United 4–0 Oyardo FC
Basabe Youth 1–5 Royal Arexa
Gortz United 4–1 Echegoyan FC

Quarterfinals
Antiguoko FC 2–0 Blue Mountain Range
Sporting Iturributa 3–1 Garitzeta Racing Club
Athletic Club Olarria 1–3 Iturributa United
Royal Arexa 0–6 Gortz United

Semifinals
Antiguoko FC 0–1 Gortz United
Sporting Iturributa 0–0 Iturributa United (0–0 AET) (2–3 pen.)

The Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi

Gortz United 2–1 Iturributa United

CHAMPIONS
GORTZ UNITED
1st title

Astograth (ASG) qualifiers
Champions League: Royal Rumiatzi
Challengers Cup: Sporting Iturributa, Gortz United, Iturributa United
Liga B Champions Trophy: Royal Arexa, Sporting Ibarguren, Urbitzo FC
Cup Winners’ Cup: Gortz United

Copa de Campeones: Royal Rumiatzi

by **Astograth** » Sun Apr 28, 2024 1:20 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 699 Review

The 54th season of the Astograthian Football League is now concluded.

First Division

Taldo Lehan               Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Iturributa United       38   27   5   6    77   28  +49    86 Champions / Copa de Campeones / Champions League
 2 Royal Rumiatzi          38   24   8   6    74   39  +35    80 Challengers Cup
 3 Sporting Iturributa     38   21   6  11    51   30  +21    69 Challengers Cup
 4 Gortz United            38   20   8  10    65   38  +27    68 Challengers Cup
 5 Urbizania Wanderers     38   19   7  12    47   34  +13    64
 6 Ituraitz Victory        38   19   4  15    47   45   +2    61
 7 Blue Mountain Range     38   16  10  12    26   17   +9    58
 8 Sporting Arkamo         38   14  15   9    47   46   +1    57
 9 Royal Ibarbe            38   18   3  17    49   48   +1    57
10 Bakartirla Buccaneers   38   16   7  15    60   59   +1    55
11 Antiguoko FC            38   16   6  16    45   43   +2    54
12 Royal Arexa             38   15   8  15    50   54   −4    53
13 Ituraitz FC             38   14  11  13    62   64   −2    53
14 Oyardo FC               38   12   8  18    43   51   −8    44
15 Sporting Ibarguren      38    9  11  18    32   51  −19    38
16 Garitzeta Racing Club   38    9  11  18    20   40  −20    38
17 Athletic Club Olarria   38    9   9  20    38   63  −25    36
18 Astograth University    38    8  11  19    26   39  −13    35 ↓ 11-year run
19 Ximun Orieta FC         38    7   7  24    27   60  −33    28 ↓ 3-year run
20 Urizaharra FC           38    6   7  25    30   67  −37    25 ↓ 1-year run

CHAMPIONS
ITURRIBUTA UNITED
9th title

Second Division

Taldo Biharran             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Echegoyan FC             46   32   7   7    89   40  +49   103 ↑ Champions / Liga B Champions Trophy
 2 Athletic Club Rumiatzi   46   29   9   8    86   49  +37    96 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 3 Ezkutia MFC              46   30   6  10    82   36  +46    96  Liga B Champions Trophy
 4 Urbitzo FC               46   27  12   7    59   23  +36    93
 5 Iturributa Racing Club   46   24  12  10    61   41  +20    84 ↑ Promoted
 6 Mars Athletic            46   23  11  12    57   44  +13    80
 7 Sporting Olarria         46   24   8  14    58   36  +22    80
 8 Ibarbe Sport             46   22   9  15    51   40  +11    75
 9 Miners FC                46   22   8  16    51   38  +13    74
10 Uidio Mariners           46   22   8  16    67   48  +19    74
11 Garitzeta FC             46   21   9  16    53   48   +5    72
12 East Railway             46   21   8  17    58   48  +10    71
13 Arbetsana Crossing       46   19   7  20    55   55    0    64
14 Malgor Union             46   17  10  19    45   57  −12    61
15 Old City Central         46   17   6  23    55   63   −8    57
16 San Markez               46   16   8  22    52   59   −7    56
17 Army United              46   15   9  22    51   75  −24    54
18 Progress Athletic        46   12  11  23    47   62  −15    47
19 Muitago Union            46   12  10  24    39   65  −26    46
20 Chabeitzio FC            46   11  11  24    48   68  −20    44
21 Royal Association        46    8  12  26    45   79  −34    36 ↓ Relegated
22 Nabarrieta FC            46    7  10  29    31   74  −43    31 ↓ Relegated
23 Lermendia FC             46    6  11  29    28   66  −38    29 ↓ Relegated
24 Eagles FC                46    4  10  32    24   78  −54    22 ↓ Relegated

Promotion Playoffs
Semifinals
Mars Athletic 1–2 Ezkutia MFC
Iturributa Racing Club 5–1 Urbitzo FC

Ezkutia MFC 0–2 Mars Athletic (2–3 agg.)
Urbitzo FC 0–0 Iturributa Racing Club (1–5 agg.)

Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Mars Athletic 1–2 Iturributa Racing Club

Second Division B

East Group

Taldo Biharran B East  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Baker's Eleven          46   32   6   8    76   34  +42   102 ↑ Champions / Promoted
 2 Landaluz Casuals        46   29  10   7    72   38  +34    97 ↑ Promoted
 3 Dockyard Oaks           46   27  13   6    72   29  +43    94 ↑ Promoted[/color]
 4 Uraldea Shipyard        46   25  11  10    67   36  +31    86
 5 Gesterlake FC           46   25   9  12    72   41  +31    84
 6 Cafundelense            46   23   9  14    65   51  +14    78
 7 Otabera United          46   23   9  14    81   54  +27    78
 8 Basabe Youth            46   21  13  12    59   47  +12    76
 9 Traka K/P               46   19  12  15    49   45   +4    69
10 United of Langaraitz    46   18  13  15    57   53   +4    67
11 Boka Youths             46   20   6  20    60   62   −2    66
12 Iratza Fury             46   16  15  15    48   49   −1    63
13 Yorunda FC              46   15  16  15    55   52   +3    61
14 Focus FC                46   17   8  21    47   61  −14    59
15 Sporting Echabea        46   16   8  22    48   56   −8    56
16 Uertza FC               46   15  10  21    41   50   −9    55
17 Basabe Old Boys         46   14  11  21    50   64  −14    53
18 Ezkalmendia FC          46   14  11  21    42   55  −13    53
19 Ardina Steelworks       46   13   8  25    52   69  −17    47
20 Arangena FC             46   11  12  23    50   68  −18    45
21 Ermua Spring            46   10  12  24    41   67  −26    42 ↓ Relegated
22 Gudea Sword Club        46   11   4  31    33   68  −35    37 ↓ Relegated
23 Latzartea FC            46    9   9  28    35   72  −37    36 ↓ Relegated
24 Galazara United         46    8   7  31    38   89  −51    31 ↓ Relegated

West Group

Taldo Biharran B West  Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Athletic Club Yokano    46   32   7   7    78   27  +51   103 ↑ Promoted
 2 Erribe United           46   25   9  12    63   40  +23    84
 3 Ametzanga Valour        46   26   6  14    61   39  +22    84
 4 Okerruri FC             46   23  13  10    62   41  +21    82
 5 Phoenix Athletic        46   22  11  13    63   47  +16    77
 6 Fort Saint Oskia        46   21  14  11    48   37  +11    77
 7 FAS SC                  46   21  13  12    64   40  +24    76
 8 Echegoyan Railway       46   21  12  13    64   47  +17    75
 9 Gortz Academy           46   20  12  14    52   42  +10    72
10 Amanka FC               46   20  10  16    57   43  +14    70
11 Dockside Casuals        46   17  15  14    48   53   −5    66
12 Ichapeldun Mariners     46   18  12  16    56   45  +11    66
13 Modraine Marauders      46   18   9  19    54   63   −9    63
14 Bizkarra Castle         46   16  13  17    63   54   +9    61
15 National Telegraph      46   14  14  18    47   55   −8    56
16 Mendibitza FC           46   15   9  22    42   64  −22    54
17 South Factory           46   13  12  21    41   55  −14    51
18 Echegoyan Steel         46   13  10  23    50   68  −18    49
19 Basauri Victory         46   12  13  21    46   62  −16    49
20 Izuna Harmony           46   13  10  23    44   61  −17    49
21 Fort Buruana            46   12  11  23    34   52  −18    47 ↓ Relegated
22 Ermarretza United       46   11  13  22    38   52  −14    46 ↓ Relegated
23 Sporting Igerreitio     46    9   9  28    27   71  −44    36 ↓ Relegated
24 Saint Eulari            46    8   7  31    33   77  −44    31 ↓ Relegated

Championship Final – East vs. West
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Baker's Eleven 1–0 Athletic Club Yokano

Promotion Playoffs
Ametzanga Valour 1–1 Landaluz Casuals
Dockyard Oaks 1–2 Erribe United

Landaluz Casuals 3–1 Ametzanga Valour (4–2 agg.)
Erribe United 0–2 Dockyard Oaks (2–3 agg.)

The Royal Cup

One-legged ties. First and Second Division teams enter at the Round of 64, and the former are seeded for that and the following round. If clubs have a two-tier difference or greater, the lower-tier team will play at home.

Round of 64 (select matches)
Mendibitza FC 0–6 Royal Rumiatzi
Uidio Mariners 0–0 Blue Mountain Range (0–0 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Muitago Union 1–2 Garitzeta Racing Club
Gortz Academy 1–0 Antiguoko FC
Royal Association 0–1 Astograth University
Miners FC 3–2 Oyardo FC
Army United 3–2 Athletic Club Olarria
Urbizania Wanderers 2–0 Malgor Union
Gudea Sword Club 0–5 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Ximun Orieta FC 0–4 Urbitzo FC
Uraldea Shipyard 1–0 Sporting Iturributa
Royal Arexa 1–0 Ibarbe Sport
Mars Athletic 0–1 Urizaharra FC
Sporting Arkamo 4–1 Progress Athletic
Phoenix Athletic 3–3 Sporting Ibarguren (3–4 AET)
Argos Olarria 0–1 Gortz United
Erribe United 0–2 Royal Ibarbe
Ituraitz FC 3–1 Sporting Olarria
Baker's Eleven 0–0 Iturributa United (0–0 AET) (4–3 pen.)
Basabe Old Boys 0–2 Ituraitz Victory

Round of 32
Echegoyan FC 0–3 Blue Mountain Range
Nabarrieta FC 0–4 Royal Rumiatzi
Bakartirla Buccaneers 2–1 Army United
Arbetsana Crossing 0–2 Garitzeta Racing Club
Baker's Eleven 1–2 Urizaharra FC
Uraldea Shipyard 0–2 Gortz United
Urbitzo FC 1–1 Royal Arexa (1–3 AET)
Traka K/P 0–1 Sporting Ibarguren
Sporting Arkamo 5–0 San Markez
Ituraitz Victory 2–0 Miners FC
Royal Ibarbe 3–1 Old City Central
Focus FC 0–1 Astograth University
Lermendia FC 0–4 Urbizania Wanderers
East Railway 1–2 [color=#0040FF]Ituraitz FC
Gortz Academy 2–0 Garitzeta FC
Echegoyan Steel 1–0 Eagles FC]

Round of 16
Ituraitz FC 2–1 Royal Rumiatzi
Sporting Ibarguren 0–1 Sporting Arkamo
Gortz Academy 0–5 Royal Ibarbe
Bakartirla Buccaneers 1–0 Urbizania Wanderers
Echegoyan Steel 1–3 Garitzeta Racing Club
[color=#0040FF]Ituraitz Victory 3–1 Astograth University[/color]
Royal Arexa 1–0 Gortz United
Blue Mountain Range 2–0 Urizaharra FC

Quarterfinals
Blue Mountain Range 0–0 Royal Ibarbe (1–0 AET)
Ituraitz Victory 5–2 Royal Arexa
Garitzeta Racing Club 0–1 Ituraitz FC
Bakartirla Buccaneers 2–0 Sporting Arkamo

Semifinals
Ituraitz FC 2–3 Blue Mountain Range
Bakartirla Buccaneers 2–3 Ituraitz Victory

The Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi

Ituraitz Victory 1–1 Blue Mountain Range (1–2 AET)

CHAMPIONS
BLUE MOUNTAIN RANGE
2nd title

Astograth (ASG) qualifiers
Champions League: Iturributa United
Challengers Cup: Royal Rumiatzi, Sporting Iturributa, Gortz United
Liga B Champions Trophy: Echegoyan FC, Athletic Club Rumiatzi, Ezkutia MFC
Cup Winners’ Cup: Blue Mountain Range

Copa de Campeones: Iturributa United

by **Astograth** » Sun Jul 21, 2024 4:25 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 700 Review

The 55th season of the Astograthian Football League, celebrating the dawn of the 8th century, is now concluded.

First Division

Taldo Lehan                Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Iturributa United        38   25   9   4    74   36  +38    84 Champions / Copa de Campeones / Champions League
 2 Sporting Iturributa      38   21  12   5    56   24  +32    75 Challengers Cup
 3 Royal Rumiatzi           38   21   9   8    64   32  +32    72 Challengers Cup
 4 Sporting Arkamo          38   18  14   6    74   47  +27    68 Challengers Cup
 5 Gortz United             38   19   9  10    57   48   +9    66
 6 Antiguoko FC             38   18  10  10    62   41  +21    64
 7 Blue Mountain Range      38   17  10  11    48   35  +13    61
 8 Bakartirla Buccaneers    38   14  13  11    51   52   −1    55
 9 Urbizania Wanderers      38   14  11  13    44   41   +3    53
10 Royal Ibarbe             38   14   8  16    50   51   −1    50
11 Ituraitz Victory         38   13  11  14    48   49   −1    50
12 Ituraitz FC              38   13  10  15    60   56   +4    49
13 Sporting Ibarguren       38   13   8  17    47   54   −7    47
14 Garitzeta Racing Club    38   12   5  21    36   50  −14    41
15 Athletic Club Olarria    38   11   7  20    38   61  −23    40
16 Echegoyan FC             38   11   7  20    45   66  −21    40
17 Athletic Club Rumiatzi   38   10   8  20    40   79  −39    38
18 Royal Arexa              38    8  12  18    54   69  −15    36 ↓ 2-year run
19 Iturributa Racing Club   38    7  10  21    36   59  −23    31 ↓ 1-year run
20 Oyardo FC                38    5   9  24    33   67  −34    24 ↓ 6-year run

CHAMPIONS
ITURRIBUTA UNITED
10th title

Second Division

After many lost play-offs, Ezkutia MFC – of the western Mendebal province – finally win the play-off final to reach the Astograthian top flight for the very first time.

Taldo Biharran           Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Urbitzo FC             46   29  10   7    76   32  +44    97 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 2 Sporting Olarria       46   24  16   6    57   29  +28    88 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 3 Ezkutia MFC            46   24  12  10    55   31  +24    84 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 4 Ximun Orieta FC        46   22  15   9    52   27  +25    81
 5 Astograth University   46   22  12  12    48   27  +21    78
 6 Ibarbe Sport           46   22   9  15    66   49  +17    75
 7 Urizaharra FC          46   23   5  18    58   59   −1    74
 8 Miners FC              46   21   9  16    42   36   +6    72
 9 Arbetsana Crossing     46   20  10  16    53   43  +10    70
10 Landaluz Casuals       46   20   9  17    59   54   +5    69
11 East Railway           46   20   9  17    56   53   +3    69
12 Uidio Mariners         46   18  12  16    58   49   +9    66
13 Mars Athletic          46   16  15  15    43   41   +2    63
14 Garitzeta FC           46   16  14  16    68   59   +9    62
15 Army United            46   15  14  17    64   77  −13    59
16 Baker's Eleven         46   16  11  19    47   53   −6    59
17 Malgor Union           46   16  10  20    44   48   −4    58
18 Progress Athletic      46   11  14  21    37   57  −20    47
19 Athletic Club Yokano   46   13   8  25    44   67  −23    47
20 San Markez             46   12   9  25    42   63  −21    45
21 Old City Central       46   13   6  27    44   71  −27    45 ↓ Relegated
22 Dockyard Oaks          46   10  11  25    28   56  −28    41 ↓ Relegated
23 Chabeitzio FC          46    8  14  24    31   54  −23    38 ↓ Relegated
24 Muitago Union          46    8  12  26    25   62  −37    36 ↓ Relegated

Promotion Playoffs
Semifinals
Ibarbe Sport 0–1 Ezkutia MFC
Astograth University 0–0 Ximun Orieta FC

Ezkutia MFC 0–0 Ibarbe Sport (1–0 agg.)
Ximun Orieta FC 1–0 Astograth University (1–0 agg.)

Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Ximun Orieta FC 1–2 Ezkutia MFC

Second Division B

East Group

Taldo Biharran B East     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Uraldea Shipyard        46   35   4   7    91   28  +63   109 ↑ Promoted
 2 Basabe Youth            46   30   9   7    84   29  +55    99
 3 Otabera United          46   26  10  10    78   43  +35    88 ↑ Promoted
 4 Gesterlake FC           46   26   9  11    56   30  +26    87
 5 Cafundelense            46   24   8  14    66   49  +17    80
 6 Royal Association       46   24   7  15    63   42  +21    79
 7 Traka K/P               46   21  14  11    63   46  +17    77
 8 United of Langaraitz    46   23   4  19    67   53  +14    73
 9 Boka Youths             46   22   7  17    52   54   −2    73
10 Yorunda FC              46   21   9  16    55   49   +6    72
11 Lermendia FC            46   20   8  18    52   49   +3    68
12 Focus FC                46   16  16  14    59   57   +2    64
13 Iratza Fury             46   17   9  20    54   55   −1    60
14 Basabe Old Boys         46   16  10  20    53   68  −15    58
15 Sporting Echabea        46   16   6  24    36   57  −21    54
16 Uzio Blackstar          46   14  12  20    34   49  −15    54
17 Ezkalmendia FC          46   14  12  20    42   52  −10    54
18 Atzauna FC              46   14   9  23    38   56  −18    51
19 Eagles FC               46   14   7  25    45   70  −25    49
20 Uertza FC               46   10  14  22    37   56  −19    44
21 Urizaharra Olympic      46   11  11  24    36   59  −23    44 ↓ Relegated
22 Larrinoa Yellow-Green   46    9  14  23    37   64  −27    41 ↓ Relegated
23 Arangena FC             46    8   9  29    37   84  −47    33 ↓ Relegated
24 Ardina Steelworks       46    9   6  31    24   60  −36    33 ↓ Relegated

West Group

Taldo Biharran B West      Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Fort Saint Oskia         46   29  10   7    63   28  +35    97 ↑ Promoted
 2 Phoenix Athletic         46   27  12   7    72   34  +38    93
 3 Echegoyan Railway        46   26  12   8    69   33  +36    90 ↑ Promoted
 4 FAS SC                   46   26  10  10    64   35  +29    88
 5 Erribe United            46   26   9  11    58   38  +20    87
 6 Ametzanga Valour         46   22  17   7    61   30  +31    83
 7 Bizkarra Castle          46   24  10  12    55   38  +17    82
 8 Okerruri FC              46   20  11  15    60   42  +18    71
 9 Ichapeldun Mariners      46   19  13  14    54   45   +9    70
10 Nabarrieta FC            46   18  15  13    53   48   +5    69
11 Gortz Academy            46   21   5  20    53   40  +13    68
12 Alumni                   46   17  11  18    39   45   −6    62
13 Dockside Casuals         46   17  11  18    60   57   +3    62
14 Modraine Marauders       46   18   7  21    53   56   −3    61
15 Marnueta FC              46   15  11  20    56   65   −9    56
16 Izunatza Hope            46   13  15  18    48   62  −14    54
17 Amanka FC                46   14   9  23    52   62  −10    51
18 Izuna Harmony            46   12  14  20    45   63  −18    50
19 Benasperri Independent   46   11  12  23    37   62  −25    45
20 Mendibitza FC            46    8  17  21    40   70  −30    41
21 South Factory            46   11   8  27    35   72  −37    41 ↓ Relegated
22 Basauri Victory          46    9  11  26    32   58  −26    38 ↓ Relegated
23 Echegoyan Steel          46   10   5  31    43   80  −37    35 ↓ Relegated
24 National Telegraph       46    8   7  31    31   70  −39    31 ↓ Relegated

Championship Final – East vs. West
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Uraldea Shipyard 0–1 Fort Saint Oskia

Promotion Playoffs
Echegoyan Railway 0–0 Basabe Youth
Otabera United 0–1 Phoenix Athletic

Basabe Youth 1–2 Echegoyan Railway (1–2 agg.)
Phoenix Athletic 0–2 Otabera United (1–2 agg.)

The Royal Cup

One-legged ties. First and Second Division teams enter at the Round of 64, and the former are seeded for that and the following round. If clubs have a two-tier difference or greater, the lower-tier team will play at home.

Round of 64 (select matches)
Landaluz Casuals 2–0 Gortz United
Royal Rumiatzi 1–0 Muitago Union
Ituraitz FC 4–2 Mars Athletic
Iratza Fury 0–0 Athletic Club Olarria (1–0 AET)
Baker's Eleven 3–2 Oyardo FC
Ichapeldun Mariners 1–3 Royal Arexa
Athletic Club Rumiatzi 3–1 Progress Athletic
Dockside Casuals 3–4 Garitzeta Racing Club
Iturributa United 2–1 Malgor Union
Ardina Steelworks 0–0 Sporting Iturributa (0–0 AET) (5–6 pen.)
Sporting Ibarguren 0–0 Miners FC (2–1 AET)
Izunatza Hope 0–1 Royal Ibarbe
Uidio Mariners 0–1 Ituraitz Victory
Sporting Arkamo 3–0 Urbitzo FC
Antiguoko FC 1–0 Ximun Orieta FC
Yorunda FC 1–2 Echegoyan FC
Athletic Club Yokano 0–0 Bakartirla Buccaneers (1–3 AET)
Blue Mountain Range 2–1 Ibarbe Sport
Garitzeta FC 2–0 Iturributa Racing Club
Royal Association 1–0 Urbizania Wanderers

Round of 32
Otabera United 0–0 Blue Mountain Range (0–2 AET)
Garitzeta FC 1–3 Ituraitz Victory
East Railway 1–0 Sporting Iturributa
Iratza Fury 1–3 Royal Rumiatzi
Dockyard Oaks 1–0 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Army United 1–0 Royal Ibarbe
Basabe Youth 1–1 Athletic Club Rumiatzi (1–1 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Landaluz Casuals 0–1 Ituraitz FC
Sporting Ibarguren 2–1 Baker's Eleven
Sporting Olarria 0–3 Iturributa United
Okerruri FC 1–2 Echegoyan FC
Royal Arexa 1–1 Old City Central (2–1 AET)
Garitzeta Racing Club 2–1 Astograth University
Antiguoko FC 4–1 Ezkutia MFC
Erribe United 2–3 Sporting Arkamo
San Markez 0–1 Royal Association

Round of 16
Army United 3–2 Sporting Ibarguren
Garitzeta Racing Club 1–1 Royal Rumiatzi (1–2 AET)
Iturributa United 2–2 East Railway (3–2 AET)
Antiguoko FC 0–0 Echegoyan FC (2–1 AET)
Royal Arexa 3–1 Sporting Arkamo
Athletic Club Rumiatzi 3–1 Ituraitz Victory
Royal Association 3–2 Ituraitz FC
Blue Mountain Range 0–1 Dockyard Oaks

Quarterfinals
Royal Arexa 1–7 Royal Rumiatzi
Royal Association 2–4 Iturributa United
Antiguoko FC 1–1 Army United (1–1 AET) (2–4 pen.)
Dockyard Oaks 1–4 Athletic Club Rumiatzi

Semifinals
Iturributa United 3–2 Royal Rumiatzi
Army United 0–2 Athletic Club Rumiatzi

The Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi

The unfavoured Athletic Rumiatzi, fresh from surviving relegation, win their very first national tournament on penalties against league champions Iturributa United, who believed that securing the domestic double should be simple enough. The winning penalty, kicked by Athletic’s captain Eusko Landa, brings about an unprecedented pitch invasion at Grand Duke’s Stadium; the celebrations cover southern Rumiatzi in a way not seen since the glory days of the 6th century.

Athletic Club Rumiatzi 2–2 Iturributa United (2–2 AET) (5–4 pen.)

CHAMPIONS
ATHLETIC CLUB RUMIATZI
1st title

Astograth (ASG) qualifiers
Champions League: Iturributa United
Challengers Cup: Sporting Iturributa, Royal Rumiatzi, Sporting Arkamo
Liga B Champions Trophy: Urbitzo FC, Sporting Olarria, Ezkutia MFC
Cup Winners’ Cup: Athletic Club Rumiatzi

Copa de Campeones: Iturributa United

by **Astograth** » Sun Nov 17, 2024 6:10 pm

The Astograthian Football League
Season 701 Review

The 56th season of the Astograthian Football League is now concluded.

First Division

Despite Royal Rumiatzi and Urbizania Wanderers swapping the lead back and forth all season, it was Sporting Iturributa who came from behind to win the title in spectacular fashion. Taking first place on the penultimate matchday, they held strong for a 2–0 over Ituraitz FC to crown themselves First Division champions for the ninth time. At the other end of the table, Athletic Club Olarria suffered the most catastrophic collapse yet seen in league history, crashing from early title contenders to relegation. Top-flight stalwarts, Athletic Olarria have been present for 45 First Division seasons; this is only their second-ever relegation, and the first since the league’s relaunch 28 years ago. The FAF has launched an investigation into the final matchday encounter between Echegoyan FC and Sporting Olarria, where a loss by the already-relegated and allegedly ‘unenthusiastic’ Sporting condemned Athletic to relegation.

Taldo Lehan                Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Sporting Iturributa      38   26   4   8    71   28  +43    82 Champions / Copa de Campeones / Champions League
 2 Urbizania Wanderers      38   26   3   9    61   25  +36    81 Challengers Cup
 3 Royal Rumiatzi           38   24   5   9    72   38  +34    77 Challengers Cup
 4 Blue Mountain Range      38   22   7   9    46   23  +23    73 Challengers Cup
 5 Sporting Arkamo          38   18   9  11    64   48  +16    63
 6 Iturributa United        38   19   6  13    63   38  +25    63
 7 Antiguoko FC             38   17   7  14    56   47   +9    58
 8 Gortz United             38   17   6  15    48   40   +8    57
 9 Bakartirla Buccaneers    38   16   8  14    48   42   +6    56
10 Ituraitz Victory         38   15  10  13    55   53   +2    55
11 Ituraitz FC              38   15   7  16    55   60   −5    52
12 Sporting Ibarguren       38   13   8  17    49   61  −12    47
13 Royal Ibarbe             38   13   7  18    40   48   −8    46
14 Athletic Club Rumiatzi   38   12   7  19    55   73  −18    43
15 Urbitzo FC               38   12   5  21    38   54  −16    41
16 Echegoyan FC             38   10  11  17    44   61  −17    41
17 Garitzeta Racing Club    38   10   8  20    34   61  −27    38
18 Athletic Club Olarria    38   10   8  20    37   67  −30    38 ↓ 28-year run
19 Sporting Olarria         38    6  10  22    21   55  −34    28 ↓ 1-year run
20 Ezkutia MFC              38    6  10  22    24   59  −35    28 ↓ 1-year run

CHAMPIONS
SPORTING ITURRIBUTA
9th title

Second Division

Royal Arexa and Astograth University make swift returns to the First Division, while Mars Athletic of Arpull off an underdog playoff win to reach the top flight for the first time.

Taldo Biharran             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Royal Arexa              46   27  10   9    85   46  +39    91 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 2 Astograth University     46   26   7  13    57   29  +28    85 ↑ Promoted / Liga B Champions Trophy
 3 Iturributa Racing Club   46   23  15   8    55   28  +27    84 Liga B Champions Trophy
 4 Oyardo FC                46   22  12  12    60   43  +17    78
 5 Mars Athletic            46   22  11  13    56   39  +17    77 ↑ Promoted
 6 Landaluz Casuals         46   23   7  16    65   51  +14    76
 7 Ximun Orieta FC          46   20  15  11    39   34   +5    75
 8 Miners FC                46   20  11  15    51   32  +19    71
 9 Army United              46   18  13  15    65   63   +2    67
10 Ibarbe Sport             46   16  17  13    52   48   +4    65
11 Garitzeta FC             46   16  16  14    52   47   +5    64
12 Uidio Mariners           46   18  10  18    44   49   −5    64
13 Echegoyan Railway        46   18   9  19    55   64   −9    63
14 Uraldea Shipyard         46   17  10  19    47   43   +4    61
15 East Railway             46   15  16  15    50   55   −5    61
16 Urizaharra FC            46   16  10  20    46   46    0    58
17 Arbetsana Crossing       46   17   6  23    52   69  −17    57
18 Fort Saint Oskia         46   14  12  20    39   53  −14    54
19 Otabera United           46   13  11  22    39   45   −6    50
20 San Markez               46   13   8  25    37   63  −26    47
21 Baker's Eleven           46   12  10  24    38   53  −15    46 ↓ Relegated
22 Malgor Union             46   10  15  21    30   55  −25    45 ↓ Relegated
23 Athletic Club Yokano     46    9  13  24    43   68  −25    40 ↓ Relegated
24 Progress Athletic        46    7  16  23    37   71  −34    37 ↓ Relegated

Promotion Playoffs
Semifinals
Landaluz Casuals 0–1 Iturributa Racing Club
Mars Athletic 4–3 Oyardo FC

Iturributa Racing Club 3–2 Landaluz Casuals (4–2 agg.)
Oyardo FC 1–2 Mars Athletic (4–6 agg.)

Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Iturributa Racing Club 0–0 Mars Athletic (0–2 AET)

Second Division B

East Group

Taldo Biharran B East     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Gesterlake FC           46   31   8   7    69   26  +43   101 ↑ Promoted
 2 Basabe Youth            46   28   8  10    90   35  +55    92
 3 Old City Central        46   25  13   8    66   40  +26    88 ↑ Promoted
 4 Dockyard Oaks           46   24  12  10    69   32  +37    84
 5 Boka Youths             46   23  10  13    69   47  +22    79
 6 Cafundelense            46   23   9  14    64   35  +29    78
 7 Ezkalmendia FC          46   20  12  14    48   52   −4    72
 8 Chabeitzio FC           46   20  11  15    43   31  +12    71
 9 Royal Association       46   19  12  15    56   49   +7    69
10 Traka K/P               46   19  12  15    53   49   +4    69
11 Yorunda FC              46   18  15  13    54   41  +13    69
12 United of Langaraitz    46   19   9  18    52   49   +3    66
13 Uzio Blackstar          46   18  10  18    48   57   −9    64
14 Lermendia FC            46   17  12  17    60   56   +4    63
15 Izarloka FC             46   14  17  15    49   65  −16    59
16 Iratza Fury             46   16  10  20    51   65  −14    58
17 Focus FC                46   14  13  19    50   60  −10    55
18 Freedom FC              46   13  10  23    40   56  −16    49
19 Atzauna FC              46   12  10  24    43   70  −27    46
20 Uertza Gymnastic        46   11   9  26    40   62  −22    42
21 Eagles FC               46   10  11  25    46   70  −24    41 ↓ Relegated
22 Basabe Old Boys         46    9  10  27    37   69  −32    37 ↓ Relegated
23 Sporting Echabea        46    8  13  25    39   69  −30    37 ↓ Relegated
24 Uertza FC               46    7  12  27    26   77  −51    33 ↓ Relegated

West Group

Taldo Biharran B West      Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts
 1 Erribe United            46   30   8   8    78   30  +48    98 ↑ Champions / Promoted
 2 Ametzanga Valour         46   27  12   7    68   27  +41    93
 3 Okerruri FC              46   25  13   8    68   29  +39    88 ↑ Promoted
 4 FAS SC                   46   25  12   9    66   33  +33    87
 5 Phoenix Athletic         46   24  14   8    63   28  +35    86
 6 Nabarrieta FC            46   23  13  10    66   41  +25    82
 7 Gortz Academy            46   23   9  14    51   39  +12    78
 8 Modraine Marauders       46   21  11  14    63   56   +7    74
 9 Bizkarra Castle          46   20  14  12    54   43  +11    74
10 Ichapeldun Mariners      46   18  14  14    53   48   +5    68
11 Amanka FC                46   17  12  17    54   56   −2    63
12 Red Star Echegoyan       46   14  13  19    41   58  −17    55
13 Alumni                   46   15  10  21    43   51   −8    55
14 Izuna Harmony            46   15   9  22    38   62  −24    54
15 Laketzata Rovers         46   13  15  18    42   53  −11    54
16 Dockside Casuals         46   14   9  23    52   57   −5    51
17 Chopbiren FC             46   11  17  18    38   49  −11    50
18 Muitago Union            46   11  16  19    41   49   −8    49
19 Marnueta FC              46   11  15  20    40   52  −12    48
20 Blue Star                46   12  11  23    40   57  −17    47
21 Ertzanga FC              46   12  10  24    43   64  −21    46 ↓ Relegated
22 Izunatza Hope            46   11  11  24    42   62  −20    44 ↓ Relegated
23 Mendibitza FC            46    9   9  28    38   80  −42    36 ↓ Relegated
24 Benasperri Independent   46   10   5  31    33   91  −58    35 ↓ Relegated

Championship Final – East vs. West
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
Gesterlake FC 0–2 Erribe United

Promotion Playoffs
Okerruri FC 4–2 Basabe Youth
Old City Central 3–1 Ametzanga Valour

Basabe Youth 1–3 Okerruri FC (3–7 agg.)
Ametzanga Valour 1–1 Old City Central (2–4 agg.)

The Royal Cup

One-legged ties. First and Second Division teams enter at the Round of 64, and the former are seeded for that and the following round. If clubs have a two-tier difference or greater, the lower-tier team will play at home.

Round of 64 (select matches)
Otabera United 2–2 Ituraitz FC (2–2 AET) (6–5 pen.)
Uidio Mariners 3–2 Urbitzo FC
Basabe Old Boys 0–3 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Laketzata Rovers 1–3 Blue Mountain Range
Uertza Gymnastic 4–1 Garitzeta Racing Club
Traka K/P 0–1 Athletic Club Rumiatzi
Boka Youths 1–3 Antiguoko FC
Sporting Ibarguren 1–3 East Railway
Athletic Club Yokano 0–1 Athletic Club Olarria
Ametzanga Valour 0–3 Iturributa United
Nabarrieta FC 0–1 Royal Ibarbe
Focus FC 0–1 Royal Rumiatzi
Ituraitz Victory 2–2 Progress Athletic (3–4 AET)
Urizaharra FC 1–0 Sporting Olarria
Miners FC 0–0 Gortz United (1–0 AET)
Fort Saint Oskia 0–1 Ezkutia MFC
Ibarbe Sport 3–3 Sporting Iturributa (3–4 AET)
Uraldea Shipyard 1–1 Echegoyan FC (2–2 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Royal Association 0–1 Urbizania Wanderers
Sporting Arkamo 3–0 Baker's Eleven

Round of 32
Garitzeta FC 0–1 Urbizania Wanderers
Royal Ibarbe 1–0 Progress Athletic
Red Star Echegoyan 2–0 Ezkutia MFC
Ximun Orieta FC 3–2 Echegoyan FC
Athletic Club Rumiatzi 0–0 Astograth University (0–1 AET)
Iratza Fury 0–1 Blue Mountain Range
Iturributa Racing Club 1–4 Royal Rumiatzi
Bizkarra Castle 1–2 Antiguoko FC
Sporting Iturributa 0–0 Arbetsana Crossing (1–0 AET)
Iturributa United 6–1 East Railway
Athletic Club Olarria 1–0 Urizaharra FC
Royal Arexa 0–1 Sporting Arkamo
Uertza Gymnastic 3–0 Bakartirla Buccaneers
Otabera United 2–0 Gortz Academy
Uidio Mariners 1–0 San Markez
Dockside Casuals 0–0 Miners FC (0–0 AET) (2–3 pen.)

Round of 16
Uertza Gymnastic 1–2 Antiguoko FC
Miners FC 2–0 Red Star Echegoyan
Otabera United 1–1 Astograth University (2–1 AET)
Urbizania Wanderers 1–1 Iturributa United (2–1 AET)
Royal Ibarbe 1–0 Royal Rumiatzi
Athletic Club Olarria 0–2 Blue Mountain Range
Ximun Orieta FC 1–1 Sporting Arkamo (1–1 AET) (3–4 pen.)
Uidio Mariners 0–1 Sporting Iturributa

Quarterfinals
Royal Ibarbe 2–0 Miners FC
Antiguoko FC 1–1 Sporting Iturributa (2–3 AET)
Sporting Arkamo 4–0 Urbizania Wanderers
Otabera United 2–3 Blue Mountain Range

Semifinals
Royal Ibarbe 1–0 Sporting Arkamo
Sporting Iturributa 2–0 Blue Mountain Range

The Final
@ Grand Duke's Stadium, Rumiatzi
In a comfortable celebration of their season, Sporting Iturributa crushed Royal Ibarbe to take home their fifth Royal Cup, the second time they have won the Astograthian domestic double.

Sporting Iturributa 3–0 Royal Ibarbe

CHAMPIONS
SPORTING ITURRIBUTA
5th title

Astograth (ASG) qualifiers
Champions League: Sporting Iturributa
Challengers Cup: Urbizania Wanderers, Royal Rumiatzi, Blue Mountain Range
Liga B Champions Trophy: Royal Arexa, Astograth University, Iturributa Racing Club
Cup Winners’ Cup: Sporting Iturributa
Copa de Campeones: Sporting Iturributa

The Almanac of Astograthian Domestic Sports

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