World Cup 93 - RP Thread

by **Ziwana** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 6:27 am

Fastani Village Inn

As business booms in Ziwana’s capital Birnin Mansanduni there is an obvious necessity for modern and uptown hospitality to accommodate guests in the midst of such growth. This is why Fastani Village Inn becomes relevant and takes its rightful place amongst rare giants providing luxurious and affordable accommodation in the fast-growing capital city. Situated in the historic and serene borough of Mbera, along the Dali Zubani Road, opposite the Birnin Select Football team clubhouse 300 meters north of the Birnin Select Stadium being constructed, Fastani Village Inn charms its guests with the place’s immaculate surroundings that blend modern structures with a natural and traditional approach.

Their well mowed lawn is craftily hedged with trimmed bamboo logs that surprise visitors with a sweeping scenery. There are natural trees breathing fresh air all round the place as one enjoys the spectacular views that are in abundance at the inn.

The inn’s lounge area provides guests with comfortable couches to fully accord them the calm environment from which they can reflect and rest in this quite atmosphere in the midst of an otherwise busy and noisy Birnin Mansanduni. The lounge is also rich with Ziwanan sculptures which should amaze and enthral tourists and locals alike. Aside that, the inn has a great bar which has great samples of Ziwana’s finest beers, wines, whiskeys, rums and gin whilst watching Birnin Select Peoples Football Club play their best football on the 100-inch flat screen tv.

The inn’s manger; Mariam Kondowe, sums it all, “Fastani Village Inn offers the warmest of hospitality and friendly staff to cater to the guests. Moreover, if the guest is lucky, they may have the privilege to get served by Birnin Select players who serve on Mondays and Wednsdays.”

Tourists travelling in groups or companies looking for quality yet affordable place to enjoy a peaceful and quality night or more will surely salivate at the dormitories that the inn offers. There are 3 different types of domes at the inn. One that houses 10 people and has 3 bathrooms and another that can bed 20 guests. The floors are artistically decorated in well-polished wood. Another dormitory houses 5 guests.
The inn also has single bedrooms that have a tv, air-conditioning and a fridge. There is also an ensuite room which has a separate bathtub as well as a shower. The room is spacious enough with comfortable carpeting and has a double bed. Furthermore, there is a dresser with a huge mirror.

Those that love food should know that Fastani Inn has highly experienced chefs dedicated to serving them with organic cuisine of their choice. These chefs have not only served the Birnin Select team on a consistent basis but have also served Their Royal Majesty, Ngwazi Aisha and her fiancé Omugabe (Prince) Ousman of Banija. Fastani truly has legendary chefs of the highest calibre that have served stars and Royalty and now the guest.

The inn’s restaurant serves traditional cuisine like fried goat meat, cow hooves and head, goat blood, nsima or sadza, local chicken, fish (famous Ziwani tilapia), samosa’s, spring rolls. The inn’s restaurant also serves chips, different type of pasta dishes etc.
The inn further has an external catering service that offers those having wedding ceremonies or any other function requiring munching sumptuous but affordable dishes.

For those looking for a place to hold chinkhoswe’s (traditional wedding), wedding receptions, bridal showers, birthday parties and the like, the inn has a large tented space that can seat up to 1000 guests besides the beautiful flowery gardens of Fastani Village Inn.

As tourists and locals visit the capital city of Ziwana for the NS World Cup Qualifiers and the Oracle Super 8 Finals, visit this inn and experience the ‘home away from home’.

by **Brusseldorf** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 6:29 am

Required reading
Los Alrededores (The Surroundings)

It was the morning of the third matchday, and the atmosphere at the Algier training facility was frenetic. The sun climbed ever higher into the sky, just short of reaching its zenith, before a solitary cloud gave the sunburnt town some much-needed respite. Support staff of all shapes and sizes ran up and down the corridors located within the tiered stadium seating, barely avoiding each other in the narrow hallways. A screech of brakes and hydraulics whimpering their greeting from outside summoned a small delegation of managers from their seats in the aircon of the medical bay. The delegation came to the front door of the facility, hanging inside til the last possible second before venturing out into the heat. The youth team manager led the line, headed directly for the bright green bus that had requested their presence only moments before. A similarly heat-apprehensive figure could be seen silhouetted in the glass of the bus's front door. The door opened just as the delegation was ten paces away, and out stepped the Banijan Manager.

Only two days before, Brusseldorf's ghost entry into the 93rd World Cup qualifiers had hit headlines. Since then, the Brusseldorfen Football Association had gone into overdrive, for an administrative oversight of this magnitude had not been witnessed since the match-fixing scandal that plagued the 82nd World Cup. Brusseldorf's initial matches had been played in extraordinary circumstances, with an empty showing against Depivik, and a ramshackle team of expat volunteers playing Karodin. When word of these matches had landed on home shores, the BFA had immediately begun recalling the national team to serve at their posts, but to no avail - the entirety of Los Alrededores outfit were off-grid; completely unresponsive to any contact. In the meantime, the youth team would have to suffice...

The story continues…

by **Kirungabi** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 6:53 am

← PREV — First Lady Musabyimana Uburiganya Hails Qualifiers Logistics Success

Enténer Signs Quebec Investment Deal in Somber CORNCOB Summit

ALDTENDALUR (GRÆ) — President Innocent Uburiganya and First Lady Musabyimana have announced a landmark deal between state-owned energy company Enténer (Enterprise Energétique de Kirungabi) and Quebecois manufacturing company QSEX (Quebec & Shingoryeo Explosives), in the framework of the Græntfjaller-hosted CORNCOB convention in Altendalur. The deal, according to the First Lady, entails a billion-mikopo investment in and around the war-torn south-western city of Gusohora, to boost production "ten-fold" of Enténer's revolutionary residential and small-scale methane siphons, microgenerators, and synthetic biomass-based hydrocarbon synthesizers by spurring the redevelopment of industry-oriented manufacturing shuttered since the mid 90s, as the Kirungan Civil War and the Battle of Gusohora drove Kirungans out of the city, plundered the local economy, and destroyed critical infrastructure crucial to the key trade and manufacturing hub.

The agreement, as per QSEX CEO Park Byeong-Joo, will assure "regional development, international cooperation, and mutual benefit" for both Kirungabi and Quebec & Shingoryeo. "By investing in Gusohora, we will be contributing to the growth of Kirungabi's innovative clean energy developments, which ensure sustainable, and affordable development for the Rushmori nation and its neighbors, and strengthening ties between Kirungabi and Quebec." Gusohora, today home to just 54,000 people after the civil war and genocide slashed two-thirds of its permanent population, will be the beneficiary of redevelopment projects to back the expansion of the city's productive capacity. The outlined transport and energy infrastructure repair and construction is estimated to directly benefit upwards of 200,000 Kirungans, including residents of lakeside cities Gufungura and Kawakiyambu.

To ensure that manufacturing activities begin in the short term, the base of the Enténer-QSEX agreement implicates an investment injection in existing Kirungan factories in the city, owned and operated by Kirungabi Itangira Guhera's Industrial Commission, and a reorganization of existing capital resources towards the expansion of Enténer's operations. Among the facilities installed in Gusohora, the KIG-owned and military-run small-arms and explosives factory USARDUKI is estimated to receive the biggest cash injection and focus of the QSEX group towards the fulfillment of the goals of the agreement. In addition, the deal aims to expand Enténer's product portfolio; Quebecois expertise in nuclear fission, according to First Lady Musabyimana, will help fulfill President Innocent Ubiriganya's 2001-set goal of providing Kirungabi with nuclear energy into the new century. "Plans for the installation of the Ville Amahoro nuclear plant stalled owing to a lack of secure funding and capital," admitted the First Lady, "but this billion-mikopo investment from QSEX will finally have the chance to make Kirungabi's nuclear dreams a reality." As the CORNCOB convention progresses, the investment deal, believes First Lady Musabyimana, will give Kirungabi added leverage in an eventual climate agreement at the end of the summit — to that end, she has invited President Muhoozi Kulan of Nyowani Kitara to "join forces" in CORNCOB negotiations. "We are two Rushmori nations which share cultural ties and, today especially, find ourselves in similar situations: ravaged by civil war, motivated and determined to grow and build on top of our past, and similarly identified with the need to seek investment from more powerful and prosperous nations to kickstart our efforts at redevelopment," the First Lady said to RTK. "An eventual agreement must prioritize the needs of Kirungabi and Nyowani Kitara in equal measure both between each other and the powerhouses of the region — conscious of the relative environmental impact between industrialized nations and ourselves, we must not accept equality, but rather, equity."

The Clean Energy, Redevelopment, and Regional Insertion Agreement, as christened by the Presidential Office in official communications, has materialized in the wake of a tumultuous weekend for Rushmore and the rest of the multiverse, with natural disasters, civil war, and the disappearance of members of the Banijan royal family ravaging Pavola and Atlantian Oceania. The presumed death of former Isebantu Mutungi and Omugabe Ssekamanya has cast a somber mood over the regional delegates to the CORNCOB convention, to where the Banijan envoys had been traveling before the presumed crash of Executive Two Flight 1649. In a hectic weekend for President Innocent Uburiganya's official twii.tur account, he offered his "most sincere condolences" to the Banijan royal family, while also calling on the parties involved in the Republica Guanacasteca civil conflict to "lay down their arms and find consensus towards peace", harkening back to Kirungabi's recently-concluded civil war. He also lamented the outbreak of civil war in Farfadillis — recently home to Kirungan National Football Team midfielder Chitundu Sindikubwabo. "War destroys families and leaves deep, incurable scars on a nation — it may be necessary, or inevitable, but it is never an opportunity."

Early Qualifiers Results "Concerning", Admits Kamembe — NEXT →

by **Kelssek** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 7:02 am

FT | KSK 7-0 LOY

Post-match media availability
“That was a big win today, François. How did you see it?”

“Yeah, first of all, you have to give respect to the opponents. As a professional it’s never easy to be on the losing side of a score like that, especially not easy to represent your country and to lose in that way. This is a World Cup qualifier and goals count, goal difference counts, so it’s about doing our best and getting the best result for us, we don’t think about the opponent, we need as good a result for ourselves as possible. And that’s why I kept pushing the players to play with discipline and professionalism to keep attacking when we’re four, five, six goals... Look, I know this really well, just seven or eight months ago with Strathcona, we won the league championship by goal difference. You don’t know when it’ll matter, but you know, we’ve also had too few goals last few matches and not such great results, but today was a great result.”

“Francois, after all the trouble scoring, do you think the players were kind of... letting out frustration?”

Francois began to answer, but instead of a reply he laughed for about ten seconds. It was highly memeable.

“Why not. It could be anything right? But many players had good performances and they deserve to enjoy this. Loïc had a good match of course, hard to say otherwise when you score a hat-trick. Thor was excellent, his link-up play is always very good and he took his goal well. Defenders, they kept a clean sheet and kept the ball moving forward, when you play in the tactics of today, defence is the start of attack and attack is the start of defence I always say. And of course I was a midfielder so I’ve always got favouritism to them, they controlled the game as well as you can ask for.”

by **Delte** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 7:11 am

Delte 2-3 Pratapgadh
Sports Correspondent Kim Samrodd not at Ildemorton Road for the Ughmirren Broadsheets

I won't dwell overly long on the finer details of this match, but certainly mention should be made of my business trip/impromptu holiday to the Magreb*, which has prevented me from effectively reporting on this match as my wifi is entirely appalling. My editor has cabled the result - crikey - and reassured me that he has some pre-prepared copy about goalkeeper Steed Tombes to bulk up the report.

A few minutes later...

Delte 1-0 Ile de Richelieu
Sports Correspondent Kim Samrodd still not at Ildemorton Road for the Marshlock Wetland Review

I won’t dwell overly long on the finer details of this match either but suffice it to say the editor has cabled another home result and it seems we have done a little better this time. Obviously I’m still in the Magreb so I can only surmise there has been a mistake of some kind on the part of my editor, or the Representatives have been forced to play back to back World Cup qualifiers.

Or it’s something to do with this mismatched timeline business that The Quick & The Delts series is going on about… I can’t say I’ve been following it.

Ready Player 13: Steed Tombes
Vignettes of The Representatives

Goalkeeper, age 25 (estimated), for Ageness Coopers FC; community animateur:

The village of Ageness had been deserted for more than thirty years before Steed and his four hundred compatriots from the Cooper River - the Rushmori Boat People - moved in, having been granted space to recover and thrive by the Delte River Trust. In 1990, in the next valley along from the Delte, a secret fluid time refinery exploded after a mishap with a temporal wrench in the works, causing vast swathes of destruction from ‘retrological induction’ along the Smite Valley. Thus began The Great Big Smite Bay Contamination Scandal - which started as the Great Big Smite River Contamination Scandal, and just flowed out from there. The city of Smite-on-Sea was decimated, and the whole valley remains empty and contaminated with time paradox swamps. Ageness, located high in a cleft between Sulloe Pike and Lerd Hill on the border between the Delte & Smite valleys, was evacuated when a rising tide of creamy fog and nonsense threatened to engulf the village. Though the irreality contamination front never actually reached Ageness, few were keen to return. The village remained a ghost town until the Cooperites arrived, flotsam on the tide of Southern Rushmore’s human rights crisis. “It’ll need a bit of fixing up,” said Roselyne Tonnelier, leader of refugees. That was last summer. The Cooperites have been fixing the place up ever since - repairing masonry, replacing woodwork, redecorating, chasing off spiders and vacuuming up industrial scale cobwebs, cutting back the overgrowth, regaining control of hedgerows, filling potholes and dealing with the odd stray retrological phenome that may have wandered up Sulloe Pike from the contaminated weirdwoods of the Smite Valley. Just last week, for example, a pungent overripe cyborg called Four-Bit Gadaffi emerged from a dawn pea-souper and demanded sanctuary in the village using a damaged metallic voicebox that emitted electrical sparks from the mouth every time sibilants were uttered. Steed and some friends had to turn the rotting thing around and convince it to go back down into the surreal miasma from whence it came. It was a small price to pay for not having a pinkshirt soldier emerge out of the mist and start shooting at you, as had happened back home before their flight from Rushmore. Taking up most of the energy of the young able bodied men of the village at the moment is the restoration of the recreation ground and football pitch in preparation for the new Early Closing Wednesday Afternoon Village Championship, which kicks off in March and will feature a new team - Ageness Coopers FC - with Steed the captain, coach and goalkeeper.

* OOC - I’m not hunting Nazis or anything exciting like that but I really am in the Atlas Mountains learning about saffron and drinking saffron pop and saffron tea and eating saffron soup and saffron marmalade and saffron cookies.

by **Sendhang** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 7:29 am

PARSEMAN KESIMAN
First Season in Pemecutan

Teuku Salahudin became the first Sendhangite to play its club football outside of Sendhang when he moved to Parseman Kesiman who was battling with relegation in the Pemecutanan Kasa League and in dire need of a new striker. Salahudin doesn't hesitate to accept the offer when he was told about it by the management of KS Tapaklaboh, his former club. For Salahudin, it was the moment he was waiting for. Even though Parseman Kesiman is not a powerhouse in Pemecutan, the opportunity to play in Kasa League which has developed many amazing talents such as Pemecutanan star striker, Leo Olivando was hard for Salahudin to reject.

Outside of the field, settling in Pemecutan was not hard for Salahudin. The staple food is also rice, the weather is also hot and the languages are mutually intelligible. The only major difference is how developed and modern Pemecutan is compared to Sendhang but this didn't bother Salahudin. On the field, however, life was hard for Salahudin. Parseman Kesiman was struggling in the league and the fans were demoralized.

Salahudin tried to make a difference. He trained hard every day and gave his all in every match. But the Kasa League is not an easy league to play and Salahudin couldn't score for fun as he did back in the Sendhang Super League. Despite Salahudin's best effort, Parseman Kesiman found themselves bottom of the league at the end of the season and relegated to the second division.

Defeat after defeat with Parseman Kesiman was demotivating especially for Salahudin who had been accustomed to title-chasing seasons with KS Tapaklaboh. But despite the setback, Salahudin knew that his journey was far from over. He was determined to stay in Pemecutan for another season and help Parseman Kesiman in its quest for promotion. He had no plans to return to Sendhang anytime soon.

by **Valentine Z** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 7:34 am

Part 6 – The Valentian Luck.

News of Valentians doing relatively better than expected have ran on the sports channels, in particular for IBC 37 and then WC 93. At first, Gwen’s Angels in IBC and Valentian Kittens in WC are simply expecting a rather average season, though with the former having a bit more confidence that they could be able to get through the qualifications. However, it would have seemed that the Valentians have exceeded all expectations in almost every way. For one, so far Gwen’s Angels have been on a winning streak in the realms of basketball, winning 9 matches in a row, though having to play against Hannasea could mean that the outcome might be different. As always, Gwen Tracer Oxton Allison declined to comment, “I can see the future, yes! But where’s the fun in that? I got to keep you all on your toes, and that goes for the Valentians too! You will get to know it when it’s time, trust me on this one, loves!”

Going back to International (Interdimensional, more like) Football, the Valentian Kittens have indeed Mew-Mew’ed their way to the top, becoming nigh unstoppable. They have predictably lost to Squornshelan Remnant States’ Black-and-Reds (and never Red-and-Blacks), the heartbreaking goal in due thanks to the Kittens not being very defensive in the first place. At the end of the day, they were unable to score a goal despite going full offensive at the opponent team. Many hugs and handshakes were still had at the end of the day, and just like with every other teams that they have played against (even the mysterious groups that they could only tell by their nondescript shirts), Kittens have always been honoured to represent themselves on the international grounds. The other non-win – the only draw so far – was up against Boring Paradise’s Team, a match that ended with a 1–1 rather uneventfully.

They have beaten everyone else, save for the next two upcoming teams – Audioslavia and Equestria, the former of which is going to be a little bit tricky for the Kittens to play against. Both of the upcoming teams are established names, with Audioslavia especially so. From what the intel – by simply looking at the team’s official roster – has indicated, it would seem that they are very, very defensive players, which should hopefully bring a balance against the all-offensive Kittens. Clarissa Alanis Star Samantha, sporting her orange hair and the blue dress as always, was holding a printout of a newspaper that she has received in the morning, one from The Aesthetic – Imprisoning Reputable Broadsheet Sports Journalistm [sic] Behind A Paywall Since 22XX (their words, not of the Valentians’). “That’s pretty interesting, ain’t it?” Clarissa said cheerfully still, showing and presenting the newspaper via the projector in the meeting room. “It seems like we have made quite a headline!” she continued on, to which the Kittens agreed and cheered each other. “It is must, must win. To allow Valentine Z to stay level, or force their way ahead, at the mid-stage of qualifying would be nothing short of disastrous,” Helen Jennifier Hiroto Morishita Chiyumi quoted the paper, a sly smile on her face as she was honoured just like with the rest of the Kittens who were really interested by that moment. Helen then gave her own remark, “Wow, I didn’t know it would come to this! Now don’t get me wrong, this is NOT against the Bulls. I have nothing against them. It’s just that I am honoured, for all of us here. To play perhaps pretty darn well that even the Bulls were emphasising that they needed this win against us.“ That is the same sentiment that the Kittens got now – they were not offended by the news or the Bulls, not at all.

No, it was definitely a badge (in this case, news) of honour for them – they are honoured and happy that they will be playing against them, and they are even more proud of one another that they managed to get the other teams to sweat a little. “You get to re-smash the Under 21 World Cup 1 trophy,” Helen continued on, perhaps a bit confused at that moment. Sure, trophy smashing – for celebration or just as some other form – is not unheard of amongst the Valentians, though even then they would make sure that they are smashing the replica, or at least asking Gwen to reverse the flow of time after they are done obliterating a trophy or an item into bits. “World Cup 1, you would think they would keep it a bit more secure or treasure it. But it would seem like they have done this a couple of times already. Ahh, this one I don’t get it, we will probably need to read their history as to the significance of it all.”

The team was simply reading through the news at that moment, commenting on things like “Valentinians” – which is not to be confused with Valentinian the Great, and just an insignificant mistake on the spelling of demonyms. Daina Allison Leela Phon Seng Sreynuon, at one point, got a little riled up by the comment about if the Valentians could run a 2.4 km under 10 minutes, while the Bulls could do under 8 minutes. “Oh I absolutely can run!” Daina exclaimed, “Ugh, if only I am playing against them, but I will be on the bench,” owing to the fact that for this season of WC (and also for IBC), none of the Valentians have not gotten any injuries, and the main teams are still playing.

Concerned, and definitely without any sarcasm, all the attentions of the Valentian Kittens went to Daina, to which they then asked her if she was okay. “Ahh I’m fine, don’t worry about it,” Daina said, blushing a little, “I got a little carried away by that, haha. No harm done, really.” Clemente Kenneth Evans L. Jiang Guanyu then approached her and asked, “Hey, if you would like to play for that round, it’s completely cool, I can swap out with you!” Then there comes Sammie Arif Raihan Bin Mohamamad Andika and Antel Marcel Georgia Katona Vass Dániel as well, both of them nicely offering their spot to Daina in a typical Valentian friendliness. It was not that Daina was agitated as much by the Bulls (and by extension, Audioslavia’s report); she simply wanted to prove to that one particular guy by the name of Marc-Antoine, and she wanted to prove it at that. “I am as athletic and fast as I ever will be!” she added on, “Thank you for offering the spot though, I really do. I mean, if Clarissa approves of this,” she trailed off to look at Clarissa, who in turn nodded happily and patted her on the back. “Hey, it’s okay if you want to be in!”

The question at that moment is – who is going to give up their spot? In an expected opposite effect, all the three current Midfielders were offering their spot to Daina, and it would take a small game in turn to see who would be the one to give up the spot. They would have to settle it in the old-fashioned way, by the way of drawing straws. The two winners would be the ones who would stay in, while the one with the shortest stick would give the spot to her.

Sammie vs Antel vs Clemente, they all drew 15 cm long straws at first glance, and then comes in Clarissa who started measuring and inspecting it. Sammie drew 14.95 cm, Antel drew 15.01 cm, and Clemente drew 14.98 cm. As a result, Sammie graciously gave the spot to Daina Allison Leela Phon Seng Sreynuon, who will then be one of the Midfielders for the next match against Audioslavia’s Bulls, and perhaps even against Equestria. “Of course, that also reminds me: Anyone else would like to do any swapping?” The Kittens shook their head gently, along with the “Nah”s and “It’s all right, maybe next season, or next half of the qualifications.” And so it is, Bulls vs Kittens. Will the Kittens be able to kick a lot of balls towards the Bulls? Or will the Bulls’ pretty impenetrable defences too much? All of this shall be answered in the next matchday of World Cup 93. For that moment, it was time for Kittens to rest.

Goalkeeper:
#  4 - Eveline Valeria Annalise Tiêu Xuân Ngọc    - 242.86 cm - F - 34 - Nam Từ Liêm, Hanoi, Vietnam, Valentine Z

Forward:
#  3 - Holly Annemiek Gerrieke Van De Hoogte      - 240.80 cm - F - 38 - Zaanstad, Netherlands, Victoriaans Nederlands, Valentine Z
# 10 - Joaquina Samanta Alonso Clara Lombardo     - 237.10 cm - F - 32 - Lanús, Buenos Aires, Argentina, Alanis Star, Valentine Z
# 11 - Kortnev Grigoriy (Grisha) Konstantinovich  - 241.08 cm - M - 39 - Saint Petersburg, Russia, Valentine Z

Midfielders:
# 31 - Daina Allison Leela Phon Seng Sreynuon     - 234.75 cm - F - 31 - Sihanoukville, Cambodia, Valentine Z
# 30 - Antel Marcel Georgia Katona Vass Dániel    - 241.06 cm - M - 27 - Székesfehérvár, Central Transdanubia, Hungary, Valentine Z
# 88 - Clemente Kenneth Evans L. Jiang Guanyu     - 240.10 cm - M - 32 - Taiyuan, Shanxi, China, Vostrov, Valentine Z

Defenders:
# 40 - Iraj Alexander Soroosh Homayoun Hashempour - 237.50 cm - M - 34 - Ahvaz, Khuzestan, Iran, Valentine Z
# 50 - Helen Jennifier Hiroto Morishita Chiyumi   - 242.25 cm - F - 30 - Osaka, Kansai, Honshu, Japan, Vostrov, Valentine Z
# 55 - Nathaniel Orla Hayden Johnstone McMahon    - 241.00 cm - M - 38 - East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire, Scotland, United Kingdom, Victoriaans Nederlands, Valentine Z
# 65 - Sigfreður Gamalíel Onyx Jason Steinason    - 240.55 cm - M - 41 - Martian Territories of Valentine Z

by **HUElavia** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 7:36 am

Xanneria 4-1 HUElaiva
(Hailey 18', 62', Burnes 33', D'arcy 90+1' | Aveiro 81')
XANAir National Stadium II, Dominica City, Xannerian Capital Territory

HUElavia 3–0 Southern Palm Islands
(Balderas 24', Yamada 45', Urto 83')
Caja de Caramello, Armalla

Is it Time to Panic?

HUElavia is humiliated in Dominica City, despite a victory in Armalla to drop more points and start questioning the team's situation.

Another set of World Cup Qualifiers, another 3 out of 6 points earned for HUElavia. Despite having the better team and skill on paper, it just was not Los Amarillos/Os Amarelos day in the first match. The first match was a rare humiliation for the team, even rarer was the fact that the team conceded 4 goals.

The match opened up in the 18th minute when Papp was on the ball, being covered by Lavezzi when they whipped a ball in the box and up came Hailey to head it past Casillas into the goal, making it 1-0. In the 33rd minute, a pass by Papp went past Curichimba, which reached Burns, who was played onside by Vargas, to go one-on-one with Casillas, giving a low shot between the legs of the keeper and into the goal, making it 2-0, sending the Xannerians into delirium. In the 62nd minute, a cross by Washington went into the box where Lavezzi tried to clear it but missed it by inches and it fell to the feet of Hailey, who sent it past a sprawling Casillas into the goal, making it 3-0, once more having the Xannerians jumping in celebration. In the 83rd minute, a pass from Navarro-Hamada got past the Xannerian defense, where Aveiro sprinted to go one-on-one with Jefferson Jr, where he gave a low shot into the goal, making it 3-1, and he ran to get the ball and run to center circle, trying to make a comeback. No comeback happened. and in the 90+1st minute, a corner was taken by Papp went into the box and D'Arcy was left alone to head the ball into the goal, making it 4-1, leading to one of the bigger upsets in these qualifiers.

The second match was a rebound one for HUElavia, as they were seeking to let their frustrations out on Southern Palm Islands, while baptizing Caja de Caramello in its NT debut. In the 24th minute, a pass by Duarte got to Balderas, who was covered by REDACTED, where he went to the side and gave a curving shot past REDACTED into the goal, making it 1-0, sending the crowd jumping for joy, while Balderas did a dance in the corner flag in celebration. In the 45th minute, Arroyo sent a cross into the box, where Yamada gave a diving header towards goal to send the ball past a sprawling REDACTED into the goal, making it 2-0, sending the HUElavians into joy once more with Yamada celebrating with her teammates a dance of their own. In the 83rd minute, a foul by REDACTED over Balderas was won, where Brousseau (in for Yamada) sent a cross in, only for Urto to be left unmarked and tap the ball into the goal past REDACTED, making it 3-0. The crowd was happy and content, and while Los Amarillos/Os Amarelos won, it sitll left an air of uncertainty with the team.

After 8 matches, Milchama sit in 1st Place with 21 Points (7-0-1), Savigliane are in 2nd with 20 Points (6-2-0), Xanneria are in 3rd with 18 Points (6-0-2), and HUElavia are in 4th with 15 Points (5-0-3). So far, there is some nervousness settling in fans, where the team has been dropping points against supposedly weaker opponents. Even worse so is that these point drops are happening on the road. What was once a team that were known as the "Road Warriors" for having many Qualifiers which saw HUElavia rarely lose on the road now has them sitting at 1-0-3 so far on the road in these qualifiers. HUElavia will play on the road for their next two games, Ancherion and Milchama, with the latter being a highlighted game in this group. That match will determine if HUElavia are still in good contention or if they have to play catch up for the remaining matches. While the press has been quick to call this a choke, various news outlets have been quick to ease those worries with the quote that there's plenty of games to go. Although, nearing the half way point with not enough of what are expected points makes it uneasy for a team like HUElavia, that knows its abilities and the expectations that comes with a team of that caliber. Either way, here's to hoping we can get something going in the next two matches and that Los Amarillos/Os Amarelos can pull an upset in Milchama.

FORCA HUELAVIA! VAMOS HUELAVIA! GO HUELAVIA!

by **Aeragny** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 7:50 am

The biggest victory the Airannian national team has gained themselves as of yet: 6-2. Never before did the Drills score as many goals in a single game; nor did they win by as big of a margin. Compared to the game against the Squornshelan Remnant States about two weeks earlier, it was night and day. Quite literally, as that match ended in a 2-6 defeat. Through goals by Garyabh, Budd and Inder, and a hattrick by Goppré(!), six times the Astograthian goalie was passed. Seven times, actually, but the original opening goal by Garyabh was called offside; originally a disputable decision, but as the Airannians were 3-0 up no less than 20 minutes later, quickly forgotten.
Equally exciting was the 0-1 victory against former world champion Equestria; and while this is one of the rare cases of a football match not airing due to the sheer time difference, the post-match report revealed the one and only goal scored during the match was the first goal to be scored by midfielder Fichomcéls; who has played many matches for the Drills already.

Airannia 6 - 2 Astograth
21': Gary Goppré 1-0
26': Gary Goppré 2-0
29': Touz Budd 3-0
44': Khriss Garyabh 4-0
53': Astograth 4-1
67: Viveró Décibeq <> Uillten Tillabois
70': Gary Goppré 5-1
80': Stéven Lédn <> Çontre Colminge
80': Sam Allbhy <> Renald Duponte
81': Jorzh Inder 6-1
86': Astograth 6-2

Equestria 0 - 1 Airannia
33': Bardeus Fichomcéls 0-1
60': -- Stéven Lédn
70': Stéven Lédn <> Çontre Colminge
70': Gérand Brassa <> Férex Pélie
87': Touz Budd <> Renald Duponte

--

Ever wondered: how does one pronounce those crazy Airannian names? Me neither. And yet; it's apparently something that a lot of people struggle with, especially foreigners who work in journalism. From "Stephan Le Dun" to "Bar Juice Fickommels" instead of Stéven Lédn and Bardeus Fichomcéls, foreign announcers seem to have the worst possible time pronouncing our boys' names. Let's have a look at some of the worst offendeds.

Bardeus Fichomcéls : /bɑʀdeːus fiʃɔmseːls/ - bar-day-us fee-chom-sales - He's Airannian! He's not a Greek god, despite his physique... No need to pronounce his name as one though.
Viveró Décibeq: /viβeɹo: de:sibɛkʲə/ - vee-vay-row day-see-back-yuh - This is a Hmalan name, so the "q" at the end automatically gets an "uh" sound at the end. In Aeránanue, his name is often pronounced with a glottal stop instead.
Çontre Colminge: /zɔntəɹ kɔlmɪnʒ/ - zon-turr coll-minge - In Aeránanue, the ç is pronounced as a "z"; apart from that, the pronunciation you might expect is actually the real one!
Khriss Garyabh: /k͡xʀɪs gɑʀjɑbv/ - chris gar-jabv - In English, there is not really an equivalent to the Airannian "bh"; which is pronounced with a v sound at the end. Similarly, the "th" sound isn't anything like in English, but is pronounced as if it said "tv". This was changed under pressure by Franquese administrators, as they have trouble pronouncing the real words; so they wanted to change the words! This didn't work.
Colman Umuitau: /kɔlmɑ̃ umʷitoː - coll-mah ouh-mwee-tow - Two things of importance to note here: the "u" in Aeránanue, when preceding a vowel, can be replaced with a "w" in English. And... the "au" is another way to spell out an elongated o sound.

Get it right, sportscasters of the world! Improve! It's not that hard, right? Do better, or else we'll send our worst at you. And his name is Tieire Maesquén; and I don't think you'd forget that name any time soon.

Tieire Maesquén is actually currently in prison; don't worry, he's not getting out. But please do pronounce our names correctly.

by **West Barack and East Obama** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 7:59 am

BARACK OBAMA'S NEXT TOP MIDFIELDER

Our Fourth Episode!

Welcome to the FOURTH ever episode of Barack Obama's Next Top Midfielder! The talent show for these ten lucky people to display their talents in the middle of the park! We've already eliminated two from contention: great chances lie ahead for the rest of the candidates! Our next contestant will be... drumroll please... Jacques Obamaheinz!

Jacques Obamaheinz is a renowned hiker and mountain climber. Most recently, he scaled Mount Volbamra, a challenging peak of a dormant volcano at one of the most remote parts of the Terjunian Isles. With immense stamina and impeccable calves, Obamaheinz is perfect for the role of a midfielder who can run around the whole pitch and pull the strings.

Master of Ceremonies: Please welcome our third ever contestant, Jacques Obamaheinz!

[audience applauds loudly]

Jacques: Greetings everybody.

Sergei: Welcome to the show Jacques! What will you be performing for us today?

Zoey: Woah. I've heard about your mountain climbing. It's really impressive!

Jacques: Hmm... it's not really as impressive as you think.

Sergei: How so? Would you mind elaborating?

[Jacques presses a button on his shoes and begins levitating]

Jacques: All my records and climbing have been due to this pair of rocket boots.

Chuck: What's this idiot doing? Get him out of here!

Wolfgang: Now hang on. He could be useful. Are those rocket boots allowed? If we could have flying players it really would help in our midfield department.

Chuck: No way! I, for one-

Jacques: Silence, you airheaded tools!

[audience and judges shut up]

Jacques: My real name is not Jacques Obamaheinz. I am not a real climber. My real name is Jake Oppenheimer, and I come here to protest the Obama government's circus of a football team. Absolute jokes! The fact that I could get to the finals of this shambolic auditions without getting caught for my crimes or cheating is astounding. UNBAN TEAM SPORTS! UNBAN TEAM SPORTS! All of you, repeat after me! UNBAN TEAM SPORTS!

[audience continues to be silent as security storms the stage. Jake blasts through the recently-patched hole in the stage ceiling to fly away and evade capture once again]

Sergei: That... was something.

Zoey: I can't believe we almost got killed by that terrorist. Not cool. I say no to ever seeing him on this stage again.

Chuck: I concur. I can't risk my... team's safety by placing them around this loon.

Sergei: You know what? Some of that wasn't too bad. He's got that showmanship. We could easily boost viewers if an entertainer in freaking rocket shoes showed up. I say aye!

Wolfgang: Yeah! BBI's most wanted or not, we should give everyone a fair and equal opportunity. That's a yes from me.

Chuck: Oh, come on guys. There's no way we can legally even advance a well known terrorist to the next round. That would literally be sponsoring terrorism. Nuh uh.

Sergei: Nope. It's legal. I created the show, I know that.

Zoey: So what now then? It's 2 for, 2 against.

Sergei: Well, the tiebreaker comes from our Master of Ceremonies up there. What says you, Master of Ceremonies?

[long pause]

Master of Ceremonies: Uh? Oh um... yeah! Let's do it! See you all next Sunday for even more wacky episodes of Barack's Next Top Midfielder! Yay!

...

I told them that I'm away for lunch at this hour! Alright, cut the footage at around the pause. A good Burger King commercial can fit in that spot.

by **Kandorith** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 7:59 am

Shinonome Kyoai - International

Mekahi woes take an even worse turn

The Kandorese national football team has hit a rough patch and seemingly has an identity crisis.
By Natsumi Miyasaki
Sports

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.  Group 8                              Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Jeruselem                              8    6   1   1    19    7  +12    19
 2 New Gelderland                         8    6   0   2    13    5   +8    18
 3 Tjorl                                  8    6   0   2    15    9   +6    18
 4 Eura                                   8    5   2   1    13    5   +8    17
 5 Sylestone                              8    5   0   3     5    4   +1    15
 6 Kandorith                              8    4   2   2    10    6   +4    14
 7 Gran Saguaro                           8    4   1   3    17   17    0    13
 8 Osarius                                8    3   0   5    20   17   +3     9
 9 The Cordian Isles                      8    3   0   5    11   16   −5     9
10 Bongo Johnson                          8    1   1   6     8   18  −10     4
11 Rouyoute                               8    1   1   6     5   17  −12     4
12 Quakmybush                             8    0   0   8     1   16  −15     0

The Kandorese national football team has been a rising star in recent years, achieving a remarkable 10th ranking in the football world. However, the team has been struggling to maintain that momentum in the current qualifiers, failing to impress so far. Fans and analysts are left wondering what has gone wrong with the team that has previously impressed with their attacking prowess and technical ability.

The team's recent performances have been lacklustre at best, with a string of uninspiring draws and losses in their most recent matches. The team's defence has been shaky, with several key players underperforming, and the midfield has failed to control the tempo of games, leaving the team exposed to counterattacks. The team's star striker, Takeshi Honda, has also failed to live up to his usual high standards, with a lack of goals and poor decision-making in the final third.

In a recent interview, Takeshi Honda opened up about the team's struggles and the pressure they face as the team's top scorer and star player. "It's been tough for us in the qualifiers so far," he admitted. "We know we're capable of better performances, but for some reason, we haven't been able to click as a team. We need to keep working hard and stay positive. We know we have the talent and the ability to turn things around."

When asked about the team's defensive issues, Honda had this to say: "We need to work on our communication and organization at the back. We know we have quality defenders, but we need to be more cohesive as a unit. We've been conceding too many goals, and that's something we need to address if we want to be successful."

Analysts suggest that the team's struggles may be due to their manager's lack of tactical flexibility, who has stuck with the same formation and style of play for too long. They also point to the team's lack of depth, with a few key injuries leaving the team thin on the bench.

Despite these issues, Kandorese football fans remain hopeful that their team can turn things around and qualify for the World Cup. The team has a rich history of success, with a number of talented players who have gone on to play for top European clubs. Fans are hoping that Takeshi Honda and his teammates can recapture their form and inspire the team to greatness once again.

The Kandorese football federation has also expressed their confidence in the team's ability to bounce back. "We have a talented group of players who have proven themselves in the past," said the federation's president, Yuto Nakamura. "We're confident that they can get back to their winning ways and make us proud."

The Kandorese team has a chance to redeem themselves in their upcoming qualifiers, and fans are eagerly anticipating their next match. Only time will tell if they can recapture the form that saw them rise to the top of the football world, or if they will continue to struggle in their pursuit of World Cup glory.

Arrests made in major raids by Tenkyo Police Department

Six members of an organized crime organisation have been arrested in connection to multiple recent attacks on large corporate targets
By Hiromi Sugihara
General

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The recent arrests of six gang members in connection with a major netrunning attack on a large corporation have sent shockwaves throughout the city. The gang members, all believed to be affiliated with the notorious Black Dragons, are accused of infiltrating the corporate network of Red Diamond Defense Industries (RDD) and stealing sensitive information. RDD is one of the largest Kandorese corporations, specializing in advanced military technology.

The netrunning attack was a sophisticated operation that required specialized skills and equipment. It is believed that the Black Dragon Syndicate contracted the services of a mercenary netrunner to carry out the attack. Netrunners are hackers with a cybernetically augmented interface system implanted into their bodies, which allows them to navigate the Internet and hack into computer systems with incredible speed and precision.

The attack on RDD's network resulted in the theft of confidential information related to the corporation's latest military technologies, including prototypes of new weapons and armour systems. The stolen information was likely intended to be sold to RDD's competitors or other countries' governments, posing a significant threat to national security.

Following the attack, RDD hired the services of NetWatch, a government-funded agency dedicated to preventing netrunning crimes, to investigate the breach. NetWatch worked closely with the Tenkyo Police Department to track down the perpetrators of the attack. After weeks of intensive investigation, they identified six gang members believed to be involved in the attack.

The six suspects were arrested in a coordinated operation carried out by the Tenkyo Police's Cybercrime Unit and the Tactical Response Group. They were charged with multiple offences, including cybercrime, conspiracy to commit espionage, and unauthorized access to a computer system. If convicted, they could face up to 20 years in prison.

In an exclusive interview, the head of the Tenkyo Police's Cybercrime Unit stated that the attack on RDD's network was a wake-up call for Kandorese corporations to take their cybersecurity even more seriously. "This incident shows that even the largest and most technologically advanced corporations are vulnerable to cyber attacks," he said. "If RDD can be targeted, then any corporation in Kandorith can be targeted."

In response to the attack, RDD announced that it would be increasing its investment in cybersecurity measures and reviewing its hiring practices to prevent future breaches. However, some critics have questioned the corporation's handling of the incident, citing its failure to prevent the breach in the first place.

The incident has also raised concerns about the role of netrunners in cybercrime. While corporations like RDD have their own netrunners to secure their networks, many other organizations may not have the resources to hire their own netrunners. This creates a demand for mercenary netrunners, who may be hired by criminal organizations to carry out cyber attacks.

Among the Kandorese corporations affected by the growing trend of cybercrime and the use of mercenary netrunners is Hiyashi Corporation, a leading electronics and software company. Hiyashi has been a target of multiple cyber attacks in recent years, including attacks on its e-commerce platform and customer databases. In response, the corporation has increased its investment in cybersecurity and has deployed even more of its own in-house netrunners.

Meanwhile, in Kandore, a number of corporations have fallen victim to similar cyber attacks, leading to millions of dollars in losses. Red Diamond Defense Industries (RDD), Hiyashi Corporation, Kaito International, Ronin Assemblies, and GasCorp are just a few of the companies that have been hit by these attacks.

With the rise of netrunning, it has become increasingly difficult for corporations to protect their sensitive data. However, Fujisan, a Kandorese corporation that has always placed the well-being of its customers and employees above profits, has not been affected by these attacks.

In an interview with the CEO of Fujisan, Yujiro Tanaka, he revealed that the company's security measures are second to none, thanks to the implementation of the latest encryption technologies and the expertise of their in-house netrunners.

"We understand that our customers' trust is our most valuable asset," Tanaka said. "That's why we spare no expense in ensuring the security and privacy of their personal information."

Fujisan's success in preventing cyber-attacks has earned the corporation a reputation as one of the most reliable and trustworthy companies in Kandorith. As a result, more and more customers are flocking to Fujisan for their needs, giving them an edge over their competitors.

Despite the efforts of Kandorese law enforcement to crack down on netrunning crime, the trend seems to be on the rise. Experts predict that corporations will have to step up their security measures to keep up with the growing threat of netrunning attacks. In the meantime, the government has called upon corporations to remain vigilant and stay one step ahead to protect their assets and the public interest of these attacks.

by **Vilita** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 8:00 am

Super Topple delays Rebels Four-Star Victory over Super Top

Marine World Park, Crosaibi, Vilita :: The Vilitan National Team played a rare matchup at Marine World Park in Crosaibi, home of the recent Vilitan League Champion Marine Coast United. At a capacity of just 57,500 - Marine World Park is one of the smallest venues that the Vilitan National Team will play at during the World Cup 93 Qualifying campaign. The Rebels opponents for the game were Super Top, the lowest ranked nation in Group 11 and a nation that did not provide any media package to their fellow group 11 federations meaning that the in-venue screens at Marine World Park had no pre-loaded information regarding the players on the Super Top team.

Vilita Jungle Rebels head coach Endur Rotropii would once again turn to a trainee from their own Rebel Academy giving Altirii Touiniki another start as they looked to groom the youngster into a future World Cup Finals starter. With only one of the Tlikara duo available for selection, there would be some changes in the Vilitan starting lineup - though those may have come regardless after the upset defeat to Hopal on the previous matchday. Despite just one Tlikara on the field, it only took 5 minutes for the other to get on the scoresheet with Treasvo being fed through by Riku Kasslin and opening the scoring to give the Rebels a 1-0 lead. Kasslin themselves would get on the scoresheet 35 minutes into the game after a run down the left hand side aided by Diamoa Waviino who played the point on the one-two that found Kasslin in space to convert the Jungle Rebels second goal of the game.

With it being the only planned National Team fixture at Marine World Park this cycle, the locals made for an extra extravagant half time display which included the parading of tiki totems from local Crosaibi cultures. At the peak of the ceremony, there were 32 totems on the field which ended up being a recipe for disaster as one team of totem escorts collided feet with another excort team. As one tiki totem began to topple, the crowd gasped realizing the potential domino effect of the chaos that could momentarily ensue. Sure enough, as the first totem fell and collided with a second, totem teams began to over-react in an attempt to avoid the toppled totems and multiple chain reaction topples continued Within less than a minute over 25 tiki's had been toppled and the remaining escort teams and their sacred tiki totems were quickly ushered out of the stadium.

Such is the local culture however that scores of fans quickly entered the pitch to help restore the tiki totems to their upright position. While some totems took nicks and dents in the kerfuffle, no totem had to be dubbed a total loss and eventually, with help of the local fans in attendance, all the tiki totems were escorted back out of the stadium clearing the pitch for play to resume after a delay of about 17 minutes.

When play resumed, things picked up right as they had left off in the first half. In fact, once again, it was Treasvo Tlikara scoring a goal within five minutes of the resumption of play this time increasing the Jungle Rebels lead further to 3-0. It wouldn't be all bad news on the day for Super Top, who would net a consolation goal in the 58th minute which - once again, resulted in the substitution of young goalkeeper Altirii Touiniki perhaps as a message to the trainee that mistakes will not be unpunished, regardless of the scoreline. Ukamai Talingri would come on as goalkeeper for the remainder of the match and preserve the scoreline up until Testiculos 11 Nii'arala Milaaso gave the home fans one last goal to cheer for as a parting gift in stoppage time, with the Jungle Rebels securing all 3 points in a 4-1 victory.

 Vilita 4 - 1 Super Top	
	Vilita Goals:	:: 5' Treasvo Tlikara:: 35' Riku Kasslin:: 47' Treasvo Tlikara:: 91' Nii'arala Milaaso           
	Stats :: Vilita 	:: Possession: 52%:: Shots: 7:: Corners: 13 :: Super Top :: Possession: 48%:: Shots: 4:: Corners: 9
	Vilita Lineup :: 	Altirii Touiniki (Ukamai Talingri 60'), Awukchu L’bakka, Injyua Klizlo, Rojara Tiones, Khrusan Mlianko (Kunaro Tlikara 45'), Jakku’u Naboyavi, Fyin Miateal (Antiviv Davaflei 60'), Riku Kasslin (Clarana Refiami 74'), Nii'arala Milaaso, Diamoa Waviino (Kunala Jyvaiij 45'), Treasvo Tlikara

Estádio da Unidade Nacional, Amarelda, Acastanha :: From there Rotropii's Rebels would hit the road to Mandalanusa where they would take on Acastanha, one of the rising powers on the World Stage and one that was circled as a potential banana peel side for the Jungle Rebels this cycle. Thankfully it would be another fast start for Vilita who had both Tlikara siblings back in action and joining them would be Tukaara Milanzi in a three-pronged Rebel attack.

This time it would be Milanzi stealing the spotlight early on, scoring from Viltias first attack of the game - a corner kick just two minutes in that probably was unnecessary from a defensive standpoint. Regardless, the goal got things kick started for Vilita and Milanzi would be on the scoresheet again just before the half hour mark. There would be virtually no fight from the home side who at times looked out of place and certainly not like the side that has climbed into the Top 60 of the World Cup Committee rankings. Vilita awould get two more goals in the second half, one from Lentali Purama and another from Jakku'u Naboyavi on an uncontested header. The final goal did seem to awaken the opposition who would make a pair of changes and, as Vilita took their foot off the gas a little, Acastanha responded by pressuring more in an attempt to prove to their supporters that they hadn't entirely wasted their time showing up to the stadium on this day. Mercifully, Acastanha would get a goal in the 88th minute from Gothrado - giving the local fans a reason to cheer and an opportunity to head home with a little better taste in their mouths despite the lopsided defeat.

For the Jungle Rebels, it was their second consecutive 4-1 victory yet they were still chasing unranked side Pratapgadh who had thus far made a mockery of Group 11, taking no quarter and marching well on their path to contending for a spot in the World Cup Finals in their debut cycle.

 Vilita 4 - 1 Acastanha	
	Vilita Goals:	:: 2' Tukaara Milanzi:: 27' Tukaara Milanzi:: 60' Lentali Purama:: 64' Jakku’u Naboyavi           
	Stats :: Vilita 	:: Possession: 57%:: Shots: 9:: Corners: 12 :: Acastanha :: Possession: 43%:: Shots: 5:: Corners: 8
	Vilita Lineup :: 	Zelkki Milake Jr., Injyua Klizlo, Awukchu L’bakka, Rojara Tiones, Riku Kasslin (Lentali Purama 60'), Trezisi Rokopolis (Antiviv Davaflei 69'), Jakku’u Naboyavi (Diamoa Waviino 65'), Sami Samii’i, Treasvo Tlikara (Kunala Jyvaiij 65'), Kunaro Tlikara (Mikele Alasita 60'), Tukaara Milanzi

by **Lozho** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 8:00 am

Zaphod 'Zico' Ziccoli Launches Surprise Candidacy for LFA Presidency

Sponsored by Imagine Dragons

After candidacy declarations for the Presidency of the Lozhoan Football Association (LFA) opened yesterday, almost everyone predicted a two-horse race between two solid candidates: incumbent President Cazy Drezen and mattress salesman Björn Zappacosta. However, many were surprised this morning to see an unlikely face emerge as a dark horse: retired professional footballer Zaphod Ziccoli, better known as Zico.

Zico, who is most famous for winning the domestic double three consecutive years in a row in the Gosport Pelicans' golden age, made headlines recently for his appearance on the reality show 'Barack Obama's Next Top Midfielder', from which he was unflatteringly eliminated by current Obaman international Lily Chobamya with a showstopper of a free kick. Even with this international humiliation hanging over his head however, Zico is likely to be the most popular candidate for the public, who are still in awe at his playmaking and droozling skills that made him a national legend. It has also been reported that the midfielder was paid handsomely for his appearance on 'Barack Obama's Next Top Midfielder', which in addition to his numerous existing sponsorship deals will provide him with all the necessary finances to mount a convincing and successful campaign. In spite of this, he is considered the least likely to succeed due to his lack of experience in any position similar to being LFA President, with many board members reportedly wishing to elect a proven candidate who can juggle the responsibilities of high-flying domestic and international teams.

The bookies predict Zappacosta as the second-most likely person to be named the next President of the Lozhoan Football Association. Zappacosta is best-known for being the co-founder and CEO of Zappacosta's Comfy Mattresses to Sleep On, one of the largest mattress franchises in the nation. In particular, his iconic 'Zappacosta to Zap Your Day Right!' advertisement catchphrase has made him a household name in many a factory worker's home in Drezhainzhire. In the world of sport however, Zappacosta is known for his grassroots efforts in growing local football. Zappacosta's Comfy Mattresses to Sleep On has sponsored numerous junior and Sunday League teams, and even helped to secure scholarships for future stars such as Jock Flubbubbazuppa and Henry Fonzarelli. With his extensive business and football knowledge, Zappacosta is certainly an ideal candidate for the position of LFA President that few would disagree with. His announced plans to focus on developing youth football may have caused some controversy amongst the Lozhoan First Division's backers however, which could cost crucial votes in his quest to become President.

The frontrunner for this election is incubment President Cazy Drezen, who has held the office for the past four years. Previously a film executive for Lozhoan studio Big Butts Products, Cazy Drezen got interested in football after producing a documentary on former footballer Doop Poozooloo, and decided to work his way up the LFA ranks. After being elected unopposed as LFA President, Drezen has introduced massive and sweeping changes to Lozhoan football as a whole. He formed the LFD and the LSD, the Lozhoan National Football Team, and is heavily involved in the organisation of the upcoming Lozho's Premium Huts and Shacks Inc. Presents: The 1st Annual President's Birthday Cup. With these projects already generating massive revenue for the LFA, Drezen should be a no-brainer for the role. However, numerous allegations made against him with regards to bribery, bullying and drink driving hang over his head and could lead to many deciding that it's finally time for him to go.

With candidacy declarations closing next week, more candidates could enter the field but none are expected to make it very far in campaigning or voting. Stay tuned for updates!

by **Graintfjall** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 8:01 am

Græntfjall – 5 (3)
Björnólfur; Alyssia, Tom, Asbjørn (56’), Leona (62’ Anarr ); Valtter (74’) (77’ Reidar ), Erin, Kæja (16’ pen.) (77’ Rebekka ); Þrastar (77’ Röskvi ), Mímir (36’), Sara K (c) (40’) (70’ Danny )

Canadian Dominion – 2 (0)
Menton (71’), George (90+5’)

Adab – 3 (1)
Yargab (10’), Emmita (57’), Khoury (68’)

Græntfjall – 2 (1)
Björnólfur; Alyssia, Eyvar, Asbjørn (82’ Klængur ), Leona (5’) (82’ Jan ); Valtter; Danny (73’ Erin ), Kæja, Steinar (58’ Reidar ); Mímir (52’) (73’ Röskvi ), Sara K (c)

Posted on the In Brief section of the GS SuperSports+ website.

Undefeated run grinds to a halt against superior Adab

MD9–10 squad: 1. Björnólfur, 12. Mikkel, 23. Ásólfur; 2. Alyssia, 3. Jan, 4. Eyvar, 5. Asbjørn, 17. Tom, 20. Reidar, 22. Anarr, 24. Hermione, 26. Leona; 8. Danny, 10. Kæja, 11. Valtter, 13. Erin, 15. Steinar, 18. Tinni, 21. Arendt; 6. Rebekka, 7. Sara K (c), 9. Mímir, 14. Vanessa, 16. Þrastar, 19. Röskvi, 25. Joel

CORNCOB roundup:

As right-wing activists knee deep in goose shit spray automatic weapons fire into the air, Prime Minister Kaija Michaelsdóttir admits conference is “heading in interesting and unexpected directions”
Foreign Minister apologizes for referring to “Kirun...whatsit” while praising deal with Quebec as example of “pro-business pragmatism”
Nuclear industry lobby heads to Altendalur to pitch themselves as the “real” green fuel
“Please try to bomb them in an environmentally conscious way”: Prime Minister’s green plea on Rülândéá
“What about Lake Viljan conservation?” asks bewildered Zóphonías Juliusson

* As it is referred to in Græntfjall.

by **The Gothanita Isles** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 8:15 am

https://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?p=40330838#p40330838 | 1

Loyalty
2: "We wanted to protest peacefully, but it is you who poked the bear"

2 months ago. When the three thousand people decided to call a strike and not turn up for work. For all the talk about how there is absolutely no momentum for a bunch of people who are making "baseless" arguments against the government, this was the biggest blow to the narrative which the government was trying to show to the people. "All these while, the government's narrative that this is a minority of people trying to cause chaos. Overnight, the story was thrown out of the window," wrote an Otksarin paper.

There was no prior notice of this happening. Unions were mainly government backed, and they definitely don't have any reason to release a prior notice for strikes. And even if there was a strike, it would have been against their employer's inability to give them enough salary, not this reason - that they are protesting against the government decision to not consider the demands as raised by Joanne Petersburg. The best thing is that all 3 thousand people didn't come from one particular ministry, or 1 particular organisation. As the Movement announced slightly before noon that day, "It was not a particular person forcing a coordinated strike, but a group of people coming together in agremeent to show that Handorians are not happy with the government's decision. They weren't members of the movement before this, and will not necessarily be members of the movement after today, but they just decided to use today as the opportunity to make a statement - that the government should listen to its people." While these 3 thousand people lost their job overnight, it begun a 2 month long movement of protests against the government. Some people decided to feel motivated to call in sick for the smallest of reason. Others decided to quit their job to pressure their employer to stop working with the government. Basically, it was a chaotic situation for one and all. Handorians decided that they were sick of the government and their sorry excuses. And decided the way would be to cripple the economy so that the government would be forced to answer to the other Gothanita Isles members, as well as the world.

Slowly and surely, it was merely peaceful strikes. People just decided to stay at home and stop working. Some would fly banners calling on the government to make changes, some would make their protests online, some go on the streets to block roads. And the number slowly increased. 3 thousand on day 1, reached around 10 thousand within 2 weeks, and by that time, it wasn't restricted to within Wokean, but it also spread outside of the town and across all of North Handoria. There were some support by other Gothanitans, but generally, neither of the other 3 member nations wanted to intervene in the situation for fear of reprisal. This got so huge, until the police decided to round up all the prominent leaders of the Wokean movement, and arrest them on the charge of "disruption to society stability".

The Wokean movement would argue that the events of the present day is not because of their own doing, but it is the government being overly sensitive and then going to such great lengths to stifle the civil rights they promised. "Our initial plans were to protest peacefully. Our points was to make the People's Council more transparent in its selection process, and more diverses in its opinions so as to represent the people of North Handoria properly. We did not want to be chaotic, we never wanted to disrupt the peace unlike what the government says." This has been repeated on the movement page ever since the arrest of Joanne Petersburg, the movement leader, as well as a number of the movement leaders. This is a storyline that the movement will always maintain, and when campaigning for foreign support for the movement, this is how they play the pity card. When Joanne Petersburg and some of the key protest leaders were brought into the court room for the pre-trial conference, Joanne shouted to the waiting media. "Pass this message to the government: We wanted to protest peacefully, but it is you who poked the bear."

by **PotatoFarmers** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 8:15 am

I will update the box scores while Tumbra generates the results

Poafmer Times
President: Poafmersia will not intervene in North Handoria situation without any support from other countries
Fiskadaha - In the monthly President's Questions, President Pikashru Nisharian was asked about what is Poafmersia's reaction to deal with the current situation in North Handoria. This question raised by Farmers United leader Torian Eshiak, who pointed out that The Gothanita Isles is a big importer of Poafmersian agriculture, and that any issues with one of the member nations might bring about a significant imapct on the livelihood of the agricultural sector. "President Sir, with the developing situation in North Handoria, and its economy expected to be sufferring until the conflict resolves, is there any intention for Poafmersia to intervene in the situation?"

The President came up to the stand, to the cheers of the Kibi Party MPs. In fact, even if the question didn't come up in the PQ, President Pikashru Nisharian was determined to give an answer on behalf of his cabinet, and to make a statement on Poafmersia's stand in this conflict. "Madame Speaker," he begun. "To answer the Honorable Mr Torian Eshiak about this issue, the cabinet has been in contact with our Gothanitan counterparts on the issue. As early as when the strikes begun, our ambasssador to The Gothanita Isles have talked to his counterparts in the country, and spoke to the Ministry of External Affairs in Hallikshire and South Jeolerina. However, the message we are getting from them is that - there is no need to help and intervene in the situation. The other member nations have confirmed that the situation can be managed internally within the Isles, and that there is no reason for concern."

"Our exports to The Gothanita Isles remain as per normal. Though imports might slightly dip, the rest of the nations have been agreeing on similiar levels of imports. We are also in contact with any Poafmers within the Isles, and as far as we are aware, no Poafmers are within the territory of North Handoria. So the situation is under control."

"We would only consider intervention in the situation, if there are international pressures and support for intervention, but we will always respect the decisions made by the remaining TGI member states."

by **Tumbra** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 8:16 am

All posts beneath this one shall be graded for the next cutoff.

Please note that this is the last cutoff (until the second leg of the playoffs) to be scorinated by me.

My co-host, Chromatika, will be taking over for the next six cutoffs. Their cutoff will occur in approximately SIXTY-ONE HOURS.

by **Brookstation** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 8:18 am

UNFORGETTABLE MATCHDAYS

DARIO ATKINSON AND HIS RE-ASCENSION TO THE THRONE OF ARTIANA

I am pretty sure all of us have heard one particular thing ever since our childhood. “It’s okay to make mistakes but it’s important to learn from them.” If there was one man who could prove this statement entirely correct, it had to be Dario Atkinson. Looking back at it, Atkinson had very little in the whole messed up business that became a major highlight of Brook football in the 90s. The legend, the perfectionist, Atkinson had always been driven by a moral code of conduct which formed the base of his peaks and flourishes.

As far as records are concerned, on 9th July, 1993, a direct blow on the poor Halebid defender Ronald Moreira developed a red card after which Atkinson’s unfriendly reaction towards the crowd earned him a one year ban. Such an atrocious behaviour could obviously not be tolerated, he totally deserved to be detained and detained for good.

But in the midst of all the drama that followed, the deliberate attacks on Atkinson have been lost behind the mist. In fact Halebid manager Chris Masina, later admitted to Artiana Galaxy’s manager Ivan Barrister that his “Warriors” were quite proud of their physique. It had been their plan all along to try and keep Artiana’s key striker, Atkinson from scoring and the plan worked much better than it should have. After tolerating a myriad of fouls, Atkinson deliberately stepped on Moreira’s boots to give him a taste of his own sweet medicine.

As he took the path down the sidelines, the entire crowd, mainly dominated by Halebid fans booed at the dejected Atkinson. As a rather gentleman, Atkinson politely replied “Fuck You”. He had fought entire teams back in his days and here he had surrendered to a seemingly weak opponent. He had to be suspended, much against the liking of Artiana but the BFA looked to make the consequences more severe.
The public had gone crazy over the mess by now. Atkinson had become a dark figure in Brook football for apparently damaging the name of the game. But had it not been for Barrister’s dash to Atkinson’s hometown to request him to come back in the summer, Atkinson probably would’ve been forgotten by Brookstation forever. “It is on such an occasion that you become sure that humanity’s not entirely dead yet,” said Atkinson on Barrister after making his return to The Galaxy after a fruitful negotiation with his manager. “He has been my father figure and the reason I am here today is only because of him.”

“I’ve been fortunate enough to play with players who had an enormous impact on the club and it is the presence of those players that makes you feel something more than football” said Rick Muller, years after he retired. “ You can’t really say that one man wins the Cup, it is the entire team but then you also had Dario Atkinson.”

As the 1995 season was heading towards its end, came Atkinson’s one of a kind comeback and of course the opponents were none but Other side of Paradise. Jostling with a bunch of young talent, Other side of Paradise were at their peak but the crowd was more interested in seeing Atkinson. He had changed. He would not repeat the same mistake, he was not the old short tempered Atkinson who needed a lot of coaxing on the pitch. It was his turn to turn the tables.

Violet flags waved throughout the stadium, everyone had chants on their lips with only one name. Within minutes of kickoff, he ran with the ball wide to the space at the right which was created due to a mistake in Other side’s defense, accompanied by Jonas Skosana and Agner Lasse. With the howling of the crowd that filled the atmosphere, he could have been forgiven for just missing the goal by a little more than a few inches.

But the game had just begun. He had spotted Youssoufa Qadir on his second run towards the goal. A perfect pass to the other side was all he needed. With his beautifully gifted footwork, he created a delicate pass and all Qadir needed to do was tap a volley through the class of defenders and his second touch slid the ball past Gentian Muci to send a wave of shock through the bloodlust crowd.

The opponents were Other side of Paradise, yes, the best club in Brookstation. Surely George Thorgensen would not comply with the goal. After a complete half an hour of play, he ran down the narrow channel and delivered a sharp shot inside Politano Chiesa’s goal. The shot was so powerful that all the goalkeeper could do was slide back into the goal for protection. Thorgensen had got the benefit, chipping Rick Muller out of the way before violently devastating Chiesa. Something had to be done.

After the break, it was again Atkinson who would stand tall. After collecting the loose ball near the centre thanks to Muller’s crushing tackle on Steven Thomas which helped them win back possession but the goal was still far away. Lasse darted in front of Atkinson, changing his direction to the right with Ryan Jeber perfectly following his trail. Atkinson displayed brilliance with his footwork and carefully dribbled the ball, just waiting for the perfect opportunity. On the other hand, Skosana advanced forward from the right and then it would be the simplest touch from Atkinson that would set Skosana in the box. Carlos could only deliver a push to bring him down in the box to save the goal. A penalty was given.
In a matter of only a few seconds, Other side of Paradise’s dreams came crumbling down. Atkinson, as he always had, gained the confidence and the fluidity of being back at his natural home. Of course, it would be him who would take the last shot. Gentian Muci would have rather stayed at home than being a victim of Atkinson’s agony as he carefully chiselled the ball firmly into the corner of the goalpost. All the trauma, the pain, the departure from the club was now over and his ascension to the throne as the true king of Artiana was complete now. It was the image of victory, of pure happiness as he shed every painful memory on the field that day and forgot his emotional back story.

That season would be Artiana’s second best season personally. The pure energy and the desperate will to take revenge had flowed through the veins of Atkinson. Although Atkinson would go on to win the Harrison Shield with Artiana in 2004, that particular day would highlight his legacy. In 2006, it was finally time for him to bid farewell to his club and this time he could finally not be persuaded to return.

MORE FROM THE BEAUTIFUL GAME :
From adulation to admiration: The story of Dario Atkinson
Do or die: Brookstation buckle up for Rushmori opponents after an unfortunate defeat against Drawkland
AC Dason midfielder Crowe, opens up about football, life and more

by **Mertagne** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 8:30 am

cw: suicide is mentioned in the last paragraph of this roleplay.

TWO PINE PRESS
presents...

THE MERTAGNIAN CLASSICS COLLECTION
#5
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The Old Ones & Other Short Stories
by Alisdair Stannard

This collection of short stories presents a rich and rarely considered viewpoint from a Corvidae soldier who abandoned the cause and defected to Mertagne during the Corvidae War. Using metaphor to write about the horrors of war and his difficult reintegration into society, Stannard discusses subjects with tact that were often considered taboo at the time of publishing. His most famous story and the novel’s namesake, The Old Ones, serves as a parable for the forgiveness sought by many that were swept up in working for the terrible regime that had taken over their homes. Stannard, clearly either a lover of animals or a subscriber to the theory that humans are no better than beasts, has many of his stories take place in the animal kingdom. This work remains controversial for ‘humanising’ the people behind a dangerous and toxic ideology, but yet still remains an important cultural work when viewed in the context it was produced.

Plot Summary:

The first story of the collection, Don’t Look Back, is about a shark that find himself incapable of looking backwards due to a problem with his eyes. This typically works out fine, as sharks are known for their ability to move forward, but the issue catches up with the shark when the other fish start to trick him by claiming that things are behind him that he can’t see, such as a birthday party, a bigger shark, or a diver with a harpoon gun. Eventually, the shark learns that looking back is possible, and that everything behind him wasn’t quite as scary as everyone else made out - it was the fear of the unknown that made it worse.

Another highlight in the collection is the story Fleeing the Nest, where a young crow leaves his next for a short time to learn to fly, only to find that a family of cuckoos has nested in the tree that he called his home. The cuckoos refuse to listen to reason, and set about changing the nest in ways that are good for the cuckoos yet bad for the family of crows. One cuckoo in particular declares himself the ‘Governor’ of the nest, and demands the other birds seek worms and seeds for him to eat. The narrator flies out once again, but upon returning, does not recognise the nest as it has been changed beyond repair. Instead, the crow attempts to settle in with another family of birds, worried throughout that he is just as bad as the cuckoos yet feeling too weak to venture out and build a nest of his own.

The most famous story of the collection, The Old Ones, follows the perspective of an unnamed narrator, who is the last surviving member of a species of beasts that mostly went extinct before living memory and who have passed into myth, known only as The Old Ones. The narrator, an Old One himself, attempts to fit in with a community of other beasts, known as New Ones, and finds that they fail to recognise him as an Old One, due to the stories of old ones remaining so exaggerated. Simply seen as a strange member of the community, the narrator begins to integrate and share stories that many simply dismiss as the ramblings of an old being.
However, one day rumours are heard that a group of Old Ones are rumoured to be coming to the village, and the tribe get scared due to their terrible reputation. Looking to the narrator for help, they ask if he will help protect them from the Old Ones. The narrator is conflicted and thinks hard about this proposition, before deciding he wants to fight for neither side and flees, deciding to ally with the winner.
The next day arrives and it is revealed that the rumoured Old Ones are not the same as the group the narrator belonged to - they were simply a different set of beasts to the ones the tribe belonged to. The narrator returns, yet the tribe admonish him for failing to fight with them when it mattered, and they banish him from the village. The narrator, challenged by his obsolescence, leaves the village in search of more of his kind that may have survived whatever catastrophe befell them.

The final and possibly saddest story in this collection of menagerial metaphors is The Toothless Tiger, a story about a Tiger in a zoo exhibit that doesn’t have any teeth. He reaches out to the other tigers in the exhibit, which all exhibit some kind of malady themselves, from madness to missing limbs. The toothless tiger laments on how clearly the tiger must be a near-extinct species, as those that exist in his new world of the exhibit are weak and hardly worth looking after.
The tiger sleeps, and begins to dream that he is rescued by a group of tigers that are strong and mighty, and never bowed to humans and know nothing of captivity. The toothless tiger joins them, and is granted a set of golden teeth, before bounding off into the night.
The next day, the toothless tiger is nowhere to be found, and instead the reality of the situation is revealed via a newspaper a parent watching the exhibit is reading - the tiger was euthanised as the keepers thought it was for the best.

About the Author:

Stannard was born in Baudelaire, The Inevitable Syndicate, approximately 25 years before the Corvidae War. He served Corvidae as a conscripted soldier, and rose to the rank of Officer, aiding the offensive against the Mertagnians. However, in the final months of the war, he was captured by Mertagnian soldiers and defected to the side of the allies, avoiding the ensuing Fligsive disaster which wiped out all of his regiment. He remained in Baudelaire for two years after the war, but was pressured to moving to Webster after many of his family members moved there also. Stannard wrote short stories during the war, but wrote several of them during his years in Webster, many of which were published in local magazines. Stannard died by suicide just 12 years after the Corvidae War, and never saw the popularity of his work.

Check out the entire Mertagnian Classics Colleciton from Two Pine Press:
Past The Point of Frozen by Victoria Emmerson
The Reach of the Endless by Andras Stocker
Verse Under The Lime Tree by Luke Latimer
The Cravannien Chronicles by Prince Arval of Wesaxe
The Old Ones & Other Short Stories by Alisdair Stannard
From Seed to Stead: The Principles of Increasing Agricultural Yield in Small-Holdings by Abigaile Farrer
The Krytenian Brooch by Marcoul Liadec
Professional Comedy: A Compilation of Popular Plays by The Baudelaire Public Players
In The Shadow of Lion’s Mountain by Joksata

by **Delte** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 8:58 am

Vilita 1-0 Delte
Tug Boat Captain & Temporary Player-Reporter Austin Lyepolde in Alikki-Corra for the Delte River Trust Staff Newsletter

I've been briefed not to dwell overly long on the finer details of our match here in the Ao region but suffice it to say the Away Team Mission enjoyed having a couple of days off and time to watch our compatriot Tinni Kight take third place in the Grand Prix; whilst we invited her to reciprocate and cheer us on in our match with the once and future world champions, unfortunately she’d already moved on to crashing out of two sprint races and a GP in other parts of the world. As for The Representatives, they avoided being smashed up at the first corner but couldn’t get a podium finish against the Big Teal Kicking Machine.

At the same time, or maybe a few minutes after...

Delte 6-0 Sajnur
Sports Correspondent Kim Samrodd at Ildemorton Road for the Askirk Harpoon & Daily Herald

I won't dwell overly long on the finer details of this match, but certainly mention should be made of The Representative’s record victory in the Continuous World Cup. After setting another record early in the cycle - a six game unbeaten streak - things had gone a bit wobbly in recent matches but a three points in impressive style will certainly have raised spirits. I’m still in the Magreb, by the way, but there has been a little bit of an improvement in the wifi since the hotelier turned on the router for an extra consideration. Which is nice.

The Quick & The Delts
4/6 : @FarvyGirl

Previously, on The Quick & The Delts:
Oswark town planning office, just after World Cup '91: “But we only just crowned Græntfjall,” exclaimed Eremo, on the phone.

“The point is,” said Tessa Sack, Chief of Everything, with a very un-Stoic-like impatience in her telephone voice, “we are fairly sure the World Cup happens every two to four months, not every two to four years as we had first expected.”

Cut to an emergency player meeting called by Dr. Orem Ustingham: “It’s not the Mertipox,” he explained, “I have been able confirm, beyond a reasonable doubt, that outside the valley, time is moving a lot faster. If we go out there, we age quicker. Out there they are living on quicktime.”

“I did wonder about their squeaky voices,” observed Aleard Sullenden, the brewer and midfielder.

Cut to Saint Skolda's Hospital, just last week: “Welcome to the Hyper-Gerontological Ageing Syndrome Research Unit,” said Dr. Orem Ustingham, “we've come a long way since those early days of counting the rings on a slice of bone. We’re also working on a name, and we rather like Far Faraway Syndrome, you know - on account of catching it in the Far Faraway, or Farfadillis.”

Cut to Ageness Surgery, in the Valley, on Thursday gone: “This the best I have felt in years,” said Granny Jonquier, at her medical with Dr. Fuite. She patted her thighs suggestively and winked at the Doctor. That was it then, thought the Doc, it had to be something local. It had to be something in the water.

“Îs thät à Gárglîng Wårt Frøg?” wondered Señora Vínsà Lülèèn, aka Farf internet supermodel sensation @FarvyGirl and the glamorous half of celebrity couple ‘Perrolèèn’ - with defensive slugger Enor Perro making up the more… rugged… half of the partnership. FarvyGirl was bathing in the outdoor infinity jacuzzi she’d had shipped especially, with a small pair of gold and diamond encrusted binoculars, enjoying her new passion for the flora and fauna of the Garga Marshes - wellspring of our beloved River Delte. They were staying at the Creeper Cottage boutique hotel, a small and rather primitive facility more or less at the very centre of the marshes, where surely almost nobody came. Enor swatted away a cloud of zipper gnats. He wasn’t impressed with their latest holiday, after fabulous jaunts to the most desirable resorts and cities of the multiverse in their jetset three years together. Any respectable Delt knew this deep into the Garga Marshes was only pain and misery, constant irritation and possibly drowning in boggy quicksand. Even the paparazzi hadn’t bothered to follow them into the wetlands.
“Cân wė gø ôn thë bůg sáfárí thîs åftérnōōn,” pleaded @FarvyGirl, “plèèèèèèåsë Ênný dárlïng?”

Much has he hated the idea of a bug hunt - anywhere, let alone in the Garga Marshes - he just couldn’t resist that saucy Farf accent, even after three years (in far faraway-time).

Scientists, doctors and football coaches weren’t the only people beginning to wake up to the myseries of ‘Deltic-time’, for the FarvyGirl also had a professional interest in the age-discrepancies of living in the green valley, as opposed to out there in the far faraway, as the locals called it. While Doc Orem had counted rings on femur bones and Dr. Fuite had marvelled at the recovery powers of the Rushmori boat people, Señora Lülèèn was beginning to wonder about the source of the healing powers of the river. As partner to the Rülândéá Kôstä defender she had often made ‘family visits’ back to Enor Perro’s homeland - I say ‘family visits’ in inverted commas because, as everyone knows in the valleys, Enor is on licence from the Auld Triangle, that is to say, prison; and ‘family visits’ is shorthand, of course, for parole meetings.

Anyway.

@FarvyGirl has not been the number one internet supermodel sensation and most-followed beauty influencer for eight years on the bounce just by turning up and logging in. She has a whole army of researchers, nutritionists and loot-grabbers devoted to maintaining her business of looking and being stunning for the tiny handheld pocket phone screen. She pretty quickly realised that all this talk of hyper-gerontological effects in her b/f’s seemingly provincial little valley had some definite mileage. After each visit to Enor’s home she felt thoroughly revived, and more importantly her team registered a 7-13.5% uptick in positive social media comments relating to her youthful visage. She wasn’t just importing an infinity jacuzzi, gold and diamond-encrusted binoculars and three volumes of Gilbert White’s legendary treatise on sphagnum-based wetlands, Bog Standards volumes I-III, just for the fun of it. She was here to discover and then work out how to best marketise the secret of the Delts’ almost eternal youth.

“Oh go on then,” Enor conceded, inevitably, “I’ll see Landlady Ackleyear about booking ‘the botanymobile’.” @FarvyGirl squealed irresistably.

by **Stevencousin** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 9:23 am

NATIONAL ECHO

Khantari Firmly Opposes Stevencousin Arms Sales to Thiothard

IFV-255A1 Inquestor

Khantari's Ministry of Defense strongly opposes the actions of the Stevencousin selling weapons to Thiothard and urges the Stevencousin to cancel the plan to sell the weapons immediately. Its spokesman, and Commandant, Defence Communications Services Agency (DeCSA), Naval Brigadier Morgan Dong Lorden, Khantari Navy, said yesterday that Stevencousin arms sales to Thiothard not only violated the "Regional Peace" principle and, seriously interfered in Khantari's internal affairs.

He explained that the action also damages Khantari's sovereignty and security interests, in addition to affecting the relationship between the two countries and the military as well as the stability and peace of the West Zecrarth Region. According to Naval Brigadier Lorden, the Thiothard issue is related to Khantari's sovereignty and territorial integrity, which involves Khantari's core interests. Therefore, he said, if Stevencousin fails to pay attention to the basic principles of international relations and does not obey its promises, Khantari will definitely take retaliatory measures. He said this when commenting on a report about the Regional Arms Support Agency (RASA) approving the sale of weapons worth more than $12.5 billion.

Naval Brigadier Lorden also added that it also sends a very wrong signal to the authority of Thiothard's military Junta and the separatism of the "Royal Thiothard's Militia Army", which seriously undermines the sovereignty and security of Khantari, as well as seriously endangers peace and stability in West Zecrarth. The Khantari Army will take all necessary measures to firmly protect national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and maintain peace and stability in West Zecrarth

Other News
- MD09: WC93Q - Stevencousin 5–5 Yuezhou: A goal bonanza in home ground
- MD10: WC93Q - Ceni 1–2 Stevencousin: An unexpected victory
- Two Meteor Class frigates, SDS Brearder (113), and SDS Wortheighton (120) conduct training at West Zecrarth
- Minister of Defense, Gen. (ret.) Reynaldo Nightwork, Army, schedule to visit Thiothard next monday

by **Obrela** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 10:56 am

The Obrelan Star, Thursday 16th February 2023

Sport

SEAFARERS SUFFER LOSS AT AERAGNY

Heartbreak for the Obrelan National Team once again as they suffer defeat at the hands of the Airannian National Team in Vorácy. Aeragny scored twice in quick succession to put the game to bed and cause Obrela to drop to 9th in the table with 10 points.

Obrela were without star midfielder Nobuko Miller after an unfortunate red card got him suspended for 2 games. Nevertheless, the Blue and Yellows dominated the majority of the game, having 15 shots to Aeragny's 6 and controlling possession, thanks largely to Yuko Miyura. Aeragny had no selection problems, and did well in stopping the many Obrelan shots thanks to their solid defenders and goalkeeper. Katso Mansuno praised them after the game, calling them "Solid as a brick wall."

The game started rather positively for Obrela, only letting Aeragny have one shot in half an hour. It all fell apart just before half-time however, when Aeragny scored a 5 minute double, one at 39 minutes by Fichomcéls and another at 44 minutes on the cusp of half-time by youngster Colminge. Ohashi had some stern words to say in the dressing room it seems, as Obrela came out fighting for the second half and Miyura delivered a daisy-cutter from 25 yards to bring Obrela back into the game, proving once again why he is the Obrelan number 10. Tempers soared at the hour mark when Mansuno threatened his spot in the first team by squaring up to Aeragny's number 4 and earning himself a yellow card. 10 minutes before the end, Kezhinár also got a yellow for a bad tackle on Miyura, leading to a free kick that allowed Garza to score, but after a VAR check, the goal was ruled out for a foul on the goalkeeper. It was a hard fought battle, but Aeragny eventually emerged victorious.

by **Aleirave** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 12:33 pm

Democratize Me!
Zwangzug 2-1 Aleirave
Aleirave 2-1 Greater Kamilistan

In the year 1578, Petake Katoko IV passed away, to be succeeded by his son, Petakiko Karila III, who became the 19th Petake of Aleirave.

Karila III has a sort of mixed reputation in Aleiravan history. His time as Petakiko was marked by trusting public opinion more than his own gut feelings, but he never actually screwed anything up. Hence, Katoko felt good passing the title of Petake onto Karila. However, history really hasn't been kind to him.

First, in 1582, there was a major debate about whether or not the Kia'u Islands should have more home rule, as opposed to their previous direct rule from Lahaira. Karila listened to the people of the Kia'u Islands and let them have their own legislature, turning them into an autonomous region. This was great for them at the time, but their legislature quickly proved to be quite the unstable one, and by 1643, they were back under direct control from Lahaira as their territorial government couldn't get anything done. Not the best start.

In general, there were a lot of decisions that went this way, some more important, like that one, and others that were far more banal, like which fish market should get more subsidies. The people considered Karila to be an absolute doormat, and set up a sort of informal democracy on the island. However, by 1589, a man named Ulakona Hafareka wanted more. He wanted this democracy of theirs to be formally enshrined in the government, and he got a large proportion of the Aleiravan population on his side.

As expected, Karila caved to the people's demands, and in 1591, the office of Petakiko, which formerly belonged to the crown prince of Aleirave, became an elected position, and Ulakona won the first Petakiko election. Little did Karila understand at the time what Petake Katoko I was thinking back when he established the office in 1203, and how much the office of Petakiko truly contributed to the stability of the island as a whole.

When Karila's son, Nepavarau, became the 20th Petake in 1601, he would be the very last Petake with any experience as Petakiko, the very last one who had the necessary preparation for the vital role of the island's king. From there, it would all be downhill. There's a reason why Karila would come to be known by future generations as Karila the Weak.

So, what would be the lesson that modern Aleirave would take from Karila III's story? No, it's not that democracy is a bad thing. Democracy is absolutely a great thing, after all. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. More accurately, democracy is a dangerous thing. Not all dangerous things are bad, but they should be controlled. Like them or not, the world needs politicians. People are stupid, and the wisdom of the crowd can get things wildly wrong. Having a leader who effectively exists as a referendum machine, turning every decision into a direct democratic choice, can lead to horribly unintended consequences. The people should be able to vote, but most of them won't understand everything that goes by a politician's desk, and they shouldn't have to. Trust needs to be given to those who do know what they're doing, and more often than not, the people can point out who does know their stuff about 70% of the time. Karila, however, didn't get that memo. He listened to the people, no matter what they knew or didn't know. That character trait would wind up dooming the stability of the nation for many decades to come.

You can, of course, disagree with that moral all you want. However, that would be the lesson Aleirave would take in the 21st century when they were forming their regional government within the Eshian realm. It's historical stories and lessons like these that come to form all the nations in the multiverse, shape their culture, their politics, and so much more. Karila III, as much as you may hate him, taught the island something that it was good for them to know in the end. In that sense, I thank him.

In every other sense, I hope nobody like him ever, ever resurfaces on the island. Some mistakes shouldn't ever be made twice.

Zwangzug - 2 (Imamura 63', Nguyen 77')
Aleirave - 1 (Veshchik 34')

Aleirave - 2 (Tyonko 4', Lifevaneka 39')
Greater Kamilistan - 1 (REDACTED 56')

by **Naixi** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 2:52 pm

Balloons from a child's apparent birthday party floated about in the sky, like distant, colorful satellites pinging messages around the globe. Ohimi stared up at them as they rose and rose into the partly cloudy sky. Some passed behind and through clouds, others soared unimpeded up into the stratosphere. This wasn't too bad to look at, she thought. Much better than certain other things.

She looked to the north. A great wall of mist was lurking there above the Leng Mountains, placidly threatening the residents of Hai's Ferry with the wet of an upcoming cold season. A brass street light blocked her view of one particularly large cloud; she craned her head around so that she could see better. This, too, she mused, was a pleasant sight, even if it did mean the chilly moisture of Naixi's winter was on its way.

Up the street, plastered on the wall of a large commercial tower block, she could see the gargantuan shape of Tak Hing Jin scowling down on the city. He was in his Sheshou jersey, an all-white ensemble with splashes of vibrant orange around the trim. He'd replaced his brother in the starting lineup during the Blues game the night before against the Euran Oceania Territories. He'd scored, or so Ohimi had been told. A bunch of players had scored, evidently.

She tilted her head at Tak Hing's likeness. His arms were folded and his chin was turned up slightly. He kind of looks like a little shit, she thought.

It was unavoidable that she'd have to face the sight of it. Ohimi looked down at last, dreading the act of gazing into the waters of the Chengse River. It was right there, nearly at her feet as she rested on a bench near the National Rail Museum in the northernmost part of Qiawutian, a district called Hai's Ferry. She heard its sickening lapping sounds as she watched little waves splash onto the banks of the river. It ebbed and flowed, and she immediately reckoned it had nauseatingly sanguine qualities. There, on the banks of a river of blood, she began to cry again.

Earlier that day, five blocks up the hillside, in a cemetery near the feet of the mountains, she'd attended Hi Yuan's funeral. The police had sent all the big wigs, of course, but she saw them all the time. It was the sight of her friend's family that was truly upsetting. Hi Yuan's father, a tall and skinny man whose physique his son had not genetically inherited, was stoic and grim-faced. His mother, a short and rotund woman with eyes of untrammeled sadness, inconsolably bawled the whole service. She'd meant to work up the courage to go and speak to them, but in the end had chickened out.

Breathing in the river's fishy aroma, she felt a bit sick, and thought at once that it might be time to depart. There was a subway station up past the enormous mural of Tak Hing Jin... somewhere. If she could only get her brain to work, she could remember where it was and be on her way...

"Detective," she heard a voice call out. Ohimi frantically tried to wipe the tears away before she turned to see who it was.

Sergeant Mi was there, walking down the embankment past a gaggle of children trying to escape the dreaded Trip to the Train Museum with Mom and Dad. He was dressed all in black. Black suit, black shoes, black tie. He even had black sunglasses on. If Hi Yuan had still been here, he might have recommended that the sergeant's background be checked out, lest he have ties to organized crime.

Ohimi smiled sadly and waved back to him. "Hello," she said.

"How long have you been down here?"

She sniffed and looked back up at the cloud-shrouded mountains. "Oh, thirty, forty minutes."

"Mmmm. Well, look, you knew I'd have to track you down at some point..."

"Sergeant, I already talked to IA. They don't want to see me again, do they?"

"Look... no. They don't want to see you again. The last time I talked to my mate over in IA, he said they had serious concerns about the way one of the assailants died. He said it looked like the guy had been on his knees, and was shot execution style. Yes, they are mildly curious about that. A lot of Naixese people are very skeptical of the police for some reason." He paused, obviously trying to coax out a defensive response from Ohimi about her race. Failing to get one, he continued. "But my mate, who I trust, also told me they're aware of the context. These thugs had just killed your partner and they obviously were going to try to kill you. You'll get off on this one, Detective, so relax. This is about something else."

She looked down from the Leng Mountains. "What's that?"

"The Captain wants to take you back off the case."

He braced himself. This would make Ohimi mad, and he knew it.

"Sergeant, the Captain personally put me on this case. He went to great pains. You were there in his office!"

"I was, unfortunately. It was a meeting that could have been an emai-"

"He told me that it was vital a woman be working the case. That there weren't enough female detectives, and that I was his only option."

"I understand. He said he knew you would say that. He asked me to say that you were right, and he was wrong, and that it was a mistake to fritter away your talents on a case this trivial."

"Well, it's not so trivial anymore, is it, Sergeant? A detective is dead at the hands of an extremely well-armed gang of criminals. Someone saw us case that place out, and quite literally had shooters on scene. They killed Hi Yuan. Their actions certainly seem to merit a more serious investigation."

He shoved his hands in his pockets as she glared at him.

"Sergeant, I can't cope if all of this really was just a random act of violence. Hi Yuan's death has to mean something. For me. You and the Captain gave me this case. You're not taking me off of it now."

"Well, the Captain says he wants you off it."

"Who cares what he says? He doesn't have the authority to micro-manage case assignments! You do! That's your job, Sergeant Mi!"

"The captain will have my ass for lunch if I keep you on the case! He feels deeply responsible for what happened to Hi Yuan, and he feels responsible for traumatizing you. It's about mercy as much as anything, Ohimi. He's not trying to be a dick. And neither am I."

She sighed. The bloody burbling of the river could be heard for a moment as the break in their dialogue stretched out like the wide plains up the river, once the mountains leveled out into rolling hills.

"Okay," she agreed ruefully, "okay. Who will take the case if I'm off it?"

A bitter look crossed Sergeant Mi's face, like he'd bitten into the flesh of a viscous, rotten plum. "Me, I suppose."

"You? Aren't you already stretched thin?"

"Yup. There's nobody else."

"So the 'Hammer of Justice' over at IA is gonna come after me with all the resources and zeal they can bring to bear, but nobody is gonna try to find out who's responsible for Hi Yuan's death?"

"Pretty much. At least not for months and months and months."

"Months and months and months after the gang has gone to ground."

"Correct."

"You're shitting me, Sergeant."

"I... I feel..."

"How many Blues games are you gonna end up missing because you're going to have to take on my caseload? And just when it's looking like they might make a miracle World Cup qualification run." Ohimi tried to prevent a mischievous countenance from appearing on her face, but failed.

"I... all right. All right, fine, stay on the case."

"Thanks, Sarge."

"Don't 'thanks Sarge' me. Keep this quiet. If it gets back to the captain, it's my ass."

"I'll keep it quiet."

"Good."

Ohimi reached out her arm. "I assume that's the case file?" She was gesturing at the manila folder he was carrying in his right hand.

"Yeah," he answered as he opened it for her to look at.

"What has uniform been up to? Anything new?"

Mi shook his head with frustration. "Not much. I'll go over what I've got. A. There have been a series of murders in the Seaport District in the last few months, and they appear to be the work of some sort of unified gang structure. Absolutely nobody's been talking on the street, though. The map is worth looking at; the area you and Hi Yuan were in is surrounded by homicide dots, but, like I say, as far as interviews go, it's all rather picked over. B. There are other prostitution rings operating around the city, some bigger than the one you were after, some smaller. We don't think they're connected, but it's an avenue that hasn't been fully explored yet. C. We have the impounded sprinter van. I've looked it over, and I didn't see much. No plates, no registration, and nothing in the back. Walls and frame are reinforced, though... it's almost like they were using it as an armored troop carrier. D. City admin says the business is legitimately owned by a Li Juan Wang. We know her, she's one of the escorts - so we've never bought the idea that she's really legit. We've always assumed the money was coming from elsewhere. But we might be wrong... it's possible that she was the real owner, and that there's extortion happening. Less plausible, but possible. We gotta track this Li Juan down, though, and that's been a problem since day one. E. A detective on the scene the night of Hi Yuan's death-" and he paused to physically show her a picture of herself that was in the casefile "-reported in her debrief that her contact's child referred to a Po Fu. I'd guess there are about 8,000 Po Fus in Qiawutian, so it's a needle in a haystack, but it's something." A rare look of admiration passed over his face, as he finished, "and I gotta say, you sure held up well in that debrief."

"F."

"What?"

"F."

"I don't follow, Detective," he said as he tossed the folder her way.

"You're missing one. F. The contact herself. Zhi Chao was her name. At least she said that was her name."

"Yeah... look... we found three bodies later that night up towards the entrance to the Port Authority."

Ohimi's heart sank. More bad news.

"A woman and two male kids. We haven't confirmed that it's them, but uh... I've been dragging my feet on having you confirm."

"Well," she said matter-of-factly, "I'll have to do it eventually."

"That you will. Just-"

"Relax, Sergeant. I'll leave the coroner a tip so my name doesn't show up on the visitors' list. Not that the captain checks it, anyway."

"I appreciate it."

"Yeah." She closed the folder and steadied herself. "I got any help? Extra manpower?"

"I assume that's a joke? You had help, and you just attended your help's funeral."

"It was. It was a joke."

"Sure." He turned to walk back up the embankment. A rowdy child, who appeared to be quite dedicated to unleashing one of the only balloons that had not escaped into near earth orbit, had to dodge out of his way.

"Sarge?"

"Yes?" he said, turning back.

"I'm sorry I let you down."

He furrowed his brow. "Don't apologize, kiddo. You're an ass-kicker. That's what I like about you."

Matchday 9

Ko-oren 0 ⇨ Bittencourt, Mizuno, van Schelven, Mallerbury, Mulvahil, van Kalvenhaar, Uozomi, Laza (Enokida), Entatingun (Parsons), Wormstal (Janoreirinthen), Aomelirea
Naixi 0 ⇨ Cai, Pao, Geng (Tan), Dong, Tian (Yep), Xun (Fen), Dai, Ti, Yuan, J.T. Jin, Hsieh

17' Yellow Card ⇨ Aomelirea (KOR)
51' Yellow Card ⇨ Mallerbury (KOR)
63' Substitution ⇨ Xun OFF Fen ON (NIX)
69' Substitution ⇨ Geng OFF Tan ON (NIX)
72' Substitution ⇨ Wormstal OFF Janoreirinthen ON (KOR)
77' Substitution ⇨ Entatingun OFF Parsons ON (KOR)
85' Substitution ⇨ Laza OFF Enokida ON (KOR)
86' Yellow Card ⇨ J.T. Jin (NIX)
90' Second Yellow Card ⇨ Aomelirea (KOR)
94' Substitution ⇨ Tian OFF Yep ON (NIX)

Matchday 10

Naixi 5 ⇨ Cai, Pao, Geng, Dong, Tian (Yep ⚽x1), Xun (Fen), Dai ⚽x2, Ti, Yuan ⚽x1, T.H. Jin ⚽x1, Hsieh (Ye)
Euran Oceania Territories 0 ⇨ Player A, Player B, Player C, Player D, Player E (Player Q), Player F (Player R), Player G, Player H, Player I, Player J, Player K

5' Goal ⇨ Dai (NIX)
15' Yellow Card ⇨ Player H (EOT)
26' Goal ⇨ Yuan (NIX)
33' Yellow Card ⇨ Cai (NIX)
47' Goal ⇨ Dai (NIX)
67' Yellow Card ⇨ Yuan (NIX)
67' Substitution ⇨ Player E OFF Player Q ON (EOT)
70' Substitution ⇨ Hsieh OFF Ye ON (NIX)
77' Goal ⇨ T.H. Jin (NIX)
78' Substitution ⇨ Player F OFF Player R ON (EOT)
80' Substitution ⇨ Tian OFF Yep ON (NIX)
80' Substitution ⇨ Xun OFF Fen ON (NIX)
86' Yellow Card ⇨ Ye (NIX)
90' Goal ⇨ Yep (NIX)
95' Yellow Card ⇨ Yep (NIX)

by **Sylestone** » Thu Feb 16, 2023 3:50 pm

Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
Part Five

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR SENTIENT

Part Six

Farrell Stadium, Avondale

The whiff of freshly cut grass filled Brett’s senses as the glossy concrete beneath his feet switched to the lush green of the Farrell Stadium surface, the roar of the crowd forcing a smile to play upon his lips. It may have only been a small stadium, with a maximum capacity of 10,000 individuals, but it could well have been the Chamberley Institute of Sport - Sylestone’s largest sporting arena. Even without the massive, reaching overhangs that characterised many of the nation’s stadia, it still felt as if it were a bustling metropolis from Brett’s perspective, with each seat a building and each bay its own postcode. And he loved every single bit of it, even the ugly, eye searing burgundy and red of the away fans from Katham. Even at an under-21 game, support for both teams was always made obvious in Sylestone and as he watched them cheer the announcement of the visiting team, he decided that nothing would please him more than to shut them up with a blinder of a goal or assist.

That was how Brett motivated himself. Although most players simply try to shut the noise out and focus wholly on the game, Brett liked to let that noise encourage him. It was there for a reason, so why not use it to your advantage? Especially when, most of the time, it seemed to work.

But not today. Perhaps it was the lack of competitive matches over the past few months - after all, Brett hadn’t played a proper football game since that draw with Betham FC - but something else was amiss. His confidence was fine after the training sessions, but everyone could see that something was on his mind, something that he simply couldn’t shove away and put at the back of his mind.

And the worst thing was, Brett didn’t have the first clue what the problem troubling him was.

His woes began in the eighth minute of the match, when a back post delivery from right back Brodie Deckman arrived directly to his forehead. With no defender in place to defend him, a simple flick of the head was all that was required to score Avondale City’s opening goal of the season, the goalkeeper caught as off balance as a drunk at a party. However, so was Brett. Instead of simply knocking the ball goalward, a rush of blood filled his body as he eagerly sprinted forward, completely missing the ball and letting it travel harmlessly out of play. Next to him, the away fans jeered wildly as Brett walked away, seething through clenched teeth.

It’s fuel. Use it.

But no matter how hard Brett tried to use the jeering as fuel, his form from the training pitch simply deserted him. Even with Pyo Seung-Hye’s words ringing through his head, he found his vision limited to what was directly in front of him, failing to unlock that periphery that had seen him wreak havoc at both senior and under-21 training sessions. Even his passing and dribbling was off, losing the ball as much as he kept control of it as Skye Johnson and Sophia Bleasdale ran riot over him whenever he looked likely to receive the ball.

They knew they were all over him. Up front, Charlotte Eastwood and Jayden Hackett simply weren’t receiving the deliveries they were craving, instead having to resort to crossing from wingbacks Natalie Mein and Brodie Deckman to fulfil those desires, or balls over the top from the midfield. While they did receive a few throughout the first half, no genuine chances were created, while two of Brett’s more deadly mistakes tracking backs were both converted into goals by upcoming Katham striker Bryan Moulden as the visitors took a 2-0 lead heading into the break, a stunned home crowd sitting paralysed, mouths agape in shock. What on earth had gotten into their star 16-year-old playmaker who had won them so many games in the past?

Connor Downes was not happy. “I think it goes without saying that that’s far from the half we wanted to have, and what we’ve been talking about over the past two weeks or so. We’ve got to retain that knowledge from the training ground when we go out there. I didn’t see an organised, quick-thinking squad out there. I saw a sluggish, slow side without a single plan of attack, or even of defence. Disorganised, chaotic. If we continue to play like that, we aren’t getting close to League One in the wet season.

“Abbey [Elphinstone], Alice [Weston], where’s your confidence? You’re both centre backs and I haven’t seen either of you properly commit to tackles at all. Where’s that fiery punch you were both using at training yesterday? Get your heads together. Confidence. Everyone here knows what you’re both capable of; it’s up to you guys to show all of them out there that, too. I can only do so much to help each and every one of you - the rest is up to you to build.

“And Brett, the same goes for you. We all know that Charlotte’s sister fancies you and she’s been following you all game, but please. Concentrate on the game. Focus on that afterwards. You play your best football when you’re having fun. So have funI”

As the coach finished, Brett began to stammer, turning to stare at his teammate, striker Charlotte Eastwood, who had understandably gone bright red as the entire dressing room stifled a laugh.

Next to Brett, goalkeeper Charlie Bailey spoke up. “Everyone here knows this. We all assumed you did.”

“Wha…”

In the centre of the room, Downes cleared his throat, his bullish features making it clear that he did not appreciate the ongoing discussion. “Not the time, guys. We’re 2-0 down to one of the weakest teams in the competition, and we’re talking about this? Focus yourselves, every one of you. If I see any of you - particularly you, Brett and you, Charlotte - distracted at any point, I will pull you off. As many of you know, I do not make idle threats like this.

“Go out there and have fun. Remember why you originally took up football. We do that, and we can still steal a point or three from this.”

* * *

Enjoy yourself.

The words rang through Brett’s head as he again stood at the back post, waiting for Deckman's corner to arc through the air towards him. With five minutes remaining in regular time, the wait for an equaliser was still on after Brett had assisted substitute midfielder Zoe Darknell for the team’s first goal of the new season. It had been a beautiful ball into the box, chipping the defence and falling straight at Darknell’s feet, before the finish curled around the outstretched arm of the spread-eagled goalkeeper, skimming the post on the way in. That had been half an hour ago, in the 56th minute of the match. In the time since, both forwards had had shots saved by Katham goalkeeper Lara Schlunke in 1v1’s, while Brett himself had come agonisingly close to scoring in the 71st minute of the match with a long range effort, brushing the outside of the post from the edge of the “D” with a remarkably powerful strike. But now, with an almost identical situation to his first chance inside the opening ten minutes of the match, this was the time to make amends.

The delivery to the back post wasn’t great - nowhere near as good as last time - but with a quick track back, Brett was still able to get his head to the ball, pushing it over the goalkeeper’s head… right into the run of Abbey Elphinstone towards the near post…

Brett knew he shouldn’t be celebrating a goal that surely confirmed a home draw against one of the weaker Potty League sides, but he couldn’t help himself. Sure enough, the 20-year-old centre back was able to kick the ball home as Farrell Stadium exploded into noise. From 2-0 down after 45 minutes, Brett’s two assists had played a critical role in the Avondale City comeback, but his job wasn’t done yet. There wasn’t much time left, but the chance was there. Could they steal a victory from the jaws of defeat?

Not quite. With Katham realising that they had been struck back into their place by sheer brute force, they stacked their defence, providing the hosts with no way through. By the time the referee’s whistle blew three times, Brett’s mind was whirring between relief, exhaustion and disappointment as he collapsed onto the grass, the buzz of the crowd filling all five of his senses. With his legs refusing to work, at that point in time Brett made a decision. If he could, he’d stay here forever.

But thoughts, located deep inside his adventurous brain, spurred him onwards. He had friends, he had teammates and most importantly, he had family. And then there was a fourth avenue - one he’d never even considered exploring before - beginning to lay its path before him. One that filled him with giddiness and dread at the same time. One that could either make or break him, as so many others had experienced before. And only one thing Brett knew for certain.

If this girl who apparently liked him - one who he had met a couple of times before after training and thinking back on it, was someone he had seemingly gotten on well with - was anything like her older sister, perhaps he’d be one of the lucky ones.

Perhaps.

Rouyoute vs Sylestone @ Somewhere, Rouyoute

Rouyoute: Unknown

Sylestone (4-4-1-1 → 5-4-1): Fuller; Davis ( 86’) - Hand Sanitiser - Faucett - Toilet (Dishwasher 70’); Stanton (Cayden Holmes 70’) - Bar Stool (Pearson 70’) - Brown - Fridge (Fullers 86’); Love; Hightower ( 45+2’) (Strathfield 90’)

Rouyoute 0-1 Sylestone
                                                             Stanton 8’

Sylestone vs The Cordian Isles @ Sentient Oval, Kirkham

Sylestone (4-4-1-1): Cavendish; Ironing Board (Holt 82’) - Pearson - Washing Machine (Damasekara 74’) - Dishwasher; Henling - Rodway - Lawson (Paterson 82’) - Jones; Fleetwood (Keyes 74’); Tumble Dryer

Sylestone 3-0 The Cordian Isles
                                      Lawson 25’
                              Fleetwood 41’, 57’

Starting Lineup vs Tjorl @ Somewhere, Tjorl

Callum Holmes; Holt - Mornington - Damasekara - Keller; Cayden Holmes - Paterson - Blair - Fullers; Keyes; Hightower

Starting Lineup vs Jeruselem @ Somewhere, Jerusalem

Brick Wall; Ironing Board - Hand Sanitiser - Pearson - Toilet; Henling - Bar Stool - Brown - Jones; Fleetwood; Strathfield

World Cup 93 - RP Thread

WC RP 5

WCQ-93 MD7-8

WC93Q MD7-8 Tiki Totem Topple

WCQ-93 MD9-10

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