O-League Krytenia Newswires (CLOSED)

by **Krytenia** » Thu Jul 20, 2023 3:23 pm

SEASON XXIII - PART ONE

It's been a while, but the O-League is back and raring to go. Stanton are the reigning champions, but with the hiatus, past form could mean very little. Expect some surprises amongst the usual names on this blank slate of a season.

MATCHDAY 1
The Champion's Kick-Off brings the potential of a spicy tie as Stanton are pitted at home to bitter rivals Bradwell in their opening fixture. Sadly for Bradwell, though, the title holders are in no mood to drop points to the Saints, and they top the table overnight. Avidia United, meanwhile, decide to give poor Secklow an epic hazing on their return to the top flight and United's first competitive game at Carstairs Park. Sunday's West-East Mercia encounter, meanwhile, is one of three nil-nil results on the opening weekend. If nothing else, that promises decent ratings in Ko-oren...

Results:
FRIDAY - CHAMPION'S KICK OFF
Stanton Town 3-0 Bradwell Saints

SATURDAY
Avidia United 7-1 Secklow
Beckton Supermarine 3-2 Emberton Reds
Bromham City 1-1 Ousevale Borough
Caledon Simpson 0-0 Neathill
Caversham 0-0 Notegia Rangers
Emberton Hibernians 0-2 Casuals Osteria
Royal Emberton 4-2 Dereapolis City
Sandwell Rangers 0-1 Leston Town
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 0-0 Mercia Bromham

MATCHDAY 2
Six sides won on opening weekend – and none of them won in Week Two. Admittedly, Stanton and Casuals, the top two from last season, cancelled each other out at Coalfields, and Avidia can be forgiven for only mustering a point against a spirited Reds side, but come on Royals, you really need to be beating the likes of Neathill if you want to be taken seriously. All this means Avidia remain top for what it's worth, with Ousevale In second after hammering Sandwell.

Credit, too, to Bromham City; yes, they're sixteenth on one point, but considering their two games have been a well-earned draw against the Tigers and a narrow defeat to Mercia, they shouldn't worry too much. Yet.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 0-0 Caversham
Bradwell Saints 1-5 Caledon Simpson
Emberton Reds 1-1 Avidia United
Leston Town 0-1 Dereapolis City
Neathill 2-2 Royal Emberton
Notegia Rangers 0-2 Ashton Olympic
Ousevale Borough 6-2 Sandwell Rangers
Secklow 1-3 Emberton Hibernians
SUNDAY
Mercia Bromham 2-1 Bromham City
Casuals Osteria 1-1 Stanton Town

MATCHDAY 3
Ousevale mean business, clearly; their thrashing of Derry is their second six-goal haul in as many matches. It means that they go ahead of Avidia on goal difference after United could “only” win three-two against new boys Caversham. Stanton, meanwhile, are caught cold, as Murray Sampson's goal seals an historic win for Secklow.

At the bottom, Bradwell are still to register a point, as they fell to a Neathill side that currently lie unbeaten in seventh. It can't last, right?

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 0-0 Beckton Supermarine
Avidia United 3-2 Caversham
Bromham City 2-1 Notegia Rangers
Dereapolis City 0-6 Ousevale Borough
Neathill 2-1 Bradwell Saints
Royal Emberton 1-1 Leston Town
Sandwell Rangers 1-1 Mercia Bromham
Stanton Town 0-1 Secklow
SUNDAY
Caledon Simpson 0-0 Casuals Osteria
Emberton Hibernians 2-2 Emberton Reds

MATCHDAY 4
Avidia may have been made to work for their win over Ashton, but they did scrape the three points in the end, putting them two points clear at the top on Saturday night. Meanwhile, Neathill's unbeaten record was brutally murdered at the hands of Casuals, and Bradwell's losing streak is extended to four after conceding that many to the Royals.

Could Ousevale take top spot back on Sunday? Could they hell. Indeed, only a late goal from Greg Williams spared their blushes at home to the personification of beige that is Leston Town.

Results:
SATURDAY
Avidia United 1-0 Ashton Olympic
Beckton Supermarine 1-1 Bromham City
Bradwell Saints 0-4 Royal Emberton
Casuals Osteria 6-2 Neathill
Caversham 3-0 Emberton Hibernians
Mercia Bromham 2-0 Dereapolis City
Notegia Rangers 1-0 Sandwell Rangers
Secklow 2-2 Caledon Simpson
SUNDAY
Emberton Reds 0-1 Stanton Town
Ousevale Borough 1-1 Leston Town

MATCHDAY 5
Second met third at Oxley Park on Sunday afternoon, and with Avidia already having secured another week with victory over Bromham City, neither side could afford to slip up. Unfortunately for Ousevale, only the Royals decided to turn up, and the Tigers tumbled to sixth. The men in wine and navy, meanwhile, are up to second, with Mercia Bromham riding their coat-tails after doing what Ousevale couldn't, and beating Leston.

Bradwell, on the other hand, registered their first points by throwing a spanner into the opulent works of Osteria. They're replaced at the bottom by the division's only remaining winless team...Emberton Reds. Let's hope this is just them getting their annual choke out of the way early.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bradwell Saints 2-1 Casuals Osteria
Bromham City 2-4 Avidia United
Caledon Simpson 1-0 Emberton Reds
Dereapolis City 0-1 Notegia Rangers
Leston Town 1-2 Mercia Bromham
Neathill 1-1 Secklow
Sandwell Rangers 1-0 Beckton Supermarine
Stanton Town 3-0 Caversham
SUNDAY
Emberton Hibernians 1-0 Ashton Olympic
Royal Emberton 5-2 Ousevale Borough

Table after MD5:

Pos Team                     P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Avidia United            5  4  1  0  16   6  +10  13
  2 Royal Emberton           5  3  2  0  16   7   +9  11
  3 Mercia Bromham           5  3  2  0   7   3   +4  11
  4 Stanton Town             5  3  1  1   8   2   +6  10
  5 Caledon Simpson          5  2  3  0   8   3   +5   9
  6 Ousevale Borough         5  2  2  1  16   9   +7   8
  7 Casuals Osteria          5  2  2  1  10   5   +5   8
  8 Notegia Rangers          5  2  1  2   3   4   -1   7
  9 Emberton Hibernians      5  2  1  2   6   8   -2   7
 10 Beckton Supermarine      5  1  3  1   4   4   +0   6
 11 Neathill                 5  1  3  1   7  10   -3   6
 12 Ashton Olympic           5  1  2  2   2   2   +0   5
 13 Caversham                5  1  2  2   5   6   -1   5
 14 Leston Town              5  1  2  2   4   5   -1   5
 15 Bromham City             5  1  2  2   7   9   -2   5
 16 Secklow                  5  1  2  2   6  13   -7   5
 17 Sandwell Rangers         5  1  1  3   4   9   -5   4
 18 Dereapolis City          5  1  0  4   3  13  -10   3
 19 Bradwell Saints          5  1  0  4   4  15  -11   3
 20 Emberton Reds            5  0  2  3   5   8   -3   2

by **Krytenia** » Thu Jul 20, 2023 4:37 pm

SEASON XXIII - PART TWO

MATCHDAY 6
Hallelujah, the Reds have won a game! True, it was scrappy as all hell and against a Neathill side tumbling down the table after a promising start, but it lifts them out of the drop zone.

Meanwhile, back at the business end, Avidia drop points at home to a bang-average Sandwell side, Royal Emberton are knocked back by Casuals, and the Mercian Classic fails to produce a winner, meaning that the Eagles maintain their two-point lead. Also, Notegia's win over Leston puts them into the heady heights of sixth, because why not?

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 1-1 Stanton Town
Avidia United 1-1 Sandwell Rangers
Casuals Osteria 2-0 Royal Emberton
Caversham 2-0 Caledon Simpson
Emberton Hibernians 0-2 Bromham City
Emberton Reds 2-1 Neathill
Notegia Rangers 1-0 Leston Town
Secklow 0-0 Bradwell Saints
SUNDAY
Beckton Supermarine 3-1 Dereapolis City
Mercia Bromham 1-1 Ousevale Borough

KFA CUP - ROUND ONE
Time for the lower leagues to take the spotlight, as forty-four spots in the second round, and the opportunity to take on a big fish from the Prem, are at stake.

As always, this throws up some interesting results. Kallia, formerly of the top flight, were downed by Nenbridge, Penniton United continue to be a punchline with a defeat on penalties against Oxley, and Port Victoria's delusions of grandeur were ended in Grafton. Oh, and there was an exciting local derby featuring Ousevale's other team and Wick Town, which Juniors won with the aid of an extra half hour. You know they want the Tigers in Round Two.

MATCHDAY 7
Two becomes one as the division's penultimate unbeaten record goes to the wayside. To be fair, Mercia went down to a single goal against a Royals side absolutely on one this season, so there's that. The win puts the side from the capital into second place, albeit three points shy of an Avidia side that had little trouble against bottom-dwelling Dereapolis. Ousevale also notched four in a win over eastern upstarts Notegia, whilst the Reds are finally looking like a team, putting five past a hapless Saints side.

Results:
SATURDAY
Casuals Osteria 3-2 Secklow
Ousevale Borough 4-1 Notegia Rangers
Bradwell Saints 1-5 Emberton Reds
Leston Town 0-1 Beckton Supermarine
Neathill 1-1 Caversham
Dereapolis City 0-4 Avidia United
Sandwell Rangers 0-2 Emberton Hibernians
Stanton Town 1-0 Bromham City
SUNDAY
Caledon Simpson 1-2 Ashton Olympic
Royal Emberton 1-0 Mercia Bromham

MATCHDAY 8
Notegia Rangers are, apparently, agents of pure chaos. A two-one win over Mercia means that the richest club in the country has gone from second place to the bottom half in the space of a fortnight. The Royals tripping over The Mound means that it's now Stanton leading the chase to Avidia...who show no signs of slowing down by putting eight past poor Leston.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 3-0 Neathill
Avidia United 8-2 Leston Town
Bromham City 1-3 Caledon Simpson
Caversham 0-1 Bradwell Saints
Emberton Hibernians 3-0 Dereapolis City
Notegia Rangers 2-1 Mercia Bromham
Secklow 3-3 Royal Emberton
Stanton Town 3-1 Sandwell Rangers
SUNDAY
Beckton Supermarine 0-0 Ousevale Borough
Emberton Reds 2-1 Casuals Osteria

MATCHDAY 9
Avidia drop points for the first time in weeks – though admittedly at the Southern Arena – so of course this is the point where Dereapolis decide to actually turn in a performance, holding Stanton to a draw. The Eagles remain three points clear, whilst Royals retake second on goal difference after squeaking past Notegia (Mercia, take note).

Match of the weekend, meanwhile, is the eight-goal thriller between Caledon and Sandwell coming straight out of nowhere. Doesn't help Rangers escape the bottom three, though.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bradwell Saints 1-3 Ashton Olympic
Caledon Simpson 4-4 Sandwell Rangers
Dereapolis City 1-1 Stanton Town
Leston Town 1-3 Emberton Hibernians
Mercia Bromham 1-0 Beckton Supermarine
Neathill 4-1 Bromham City
Royal Emberton 1-0 Notegia Rangers
Secklow 2-2 Emberton Reds
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 3-1 Caversham
Ousevale Borough 1-1 Avidia United

MATCHDAY 10
When your season's gone into a tailspin, usually the last thing you need is to travel to the home of the league leaders. Especially when said home is noisy as all hell and still has that “new stadium smell”.

Mercia Bromham, though, are built different, as a back and forth encounter ends with subsitute Eddie Culverhouse planting a dagger into Avidia's unbeaten record.

Stanton are glad of this, and obliterate the three point gap to the leaders; the defending champions are now second only on goal difference. Royals slip to third after garnering only a draw at the home of their cross-city rivals, with their other cross-city rivals in fourth after downing Ousevale, who are now tenth. They're behind Beckton Supermarine, for crying out loud.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 1-1 Casuals Osteria
Beckton Supermarine 2-0 Notegia Rangers
Bromham City 1-1 Bradwell Saints
Caledon Simpson 4-2 Dereapolis City
Caversham 0-1 Secklow
Emberton Hibernians 2-1 Ousevale Borough
Sandwell Rangers 2-1 Neathill
Stanton Town 2-0 Leston Town
SUNDAY
Avidia United 2-3 Mercia Bromham
Emberton Reds 1-1 Royal Emberton

MATCHDAY 11
Mercia and Ousevale – remember when they were the dominant forces in the O-League? Well, now they're barely bumps in the road. The toothless Tigers are embarrassed at home by Stanton and now sit in eleventh, whilst Mercia lose at home to a Hibs side who are still just two points off top spot.

Unfortunately for both of them – and Royals, who also won – Avidia have chaos-proofed themselves and pick up a win at Knott Crescent that keeps them top of the table.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bradwell Saints 5-2 Sandwell Rangers
Casuals Osteria 4-1 Bromham City
Leston Town 1-0 Caledon Simpson
Mercia Bromham 0-2 Emberton Hibernians
Neathill 0-0 Dereapolis City
Notegia Rangers 2-4 Avidia United
Royal Emberton 1-0 Beckton Supermarine
Secklow 0-3 Ashton Olympic
SUNDAY
Emberton Reds 2-1 Caversham
Ousevale Borough 0-3 Stanton Town

MATCHDAY 12
We've not mentioned Ashton much this season. Let's see how they're doing at home to Emberton Reds.

...oh. That's gotta hurt.

No changes in the top three as Avidia, Stanton, and Royal Emberton all win, but it's now Casuals in fourth as Hibs drop points to Notegia. Why is it always Notegia?

Results:
SATURDAY
Avidia United 4-1 Beckton Supermarine
Bromham City 2-0 Secklow
Caledon Simpson 0-1 Ousevale Borough
Caversham 0-2 Royal Emberton
Dereapolis City 1-3 Bradwell Saints
Emberton Hibernians 0-0 Notegia Rangers
Neathill 1-2 Leston Town
Sandwell Rangers 3-5 Casuals Osteria
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 0-5 Emberton Reds
Stanton Town 1-0 Mercia Bromham

Table after MD12:

Pos Team                      P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Avidia United            12  8  3  1  40  16  +24  27
  2 Stanton Town             12  8  3  1  20   5  +15  27
  3 Royal Emberton           12  7  4  1  25  13  +12  25
  4 Casuals Osteria          12  7  3  2  29  15  +14  24
  5 Emberton Hibernians      12  7  2  3  18  12   +6  23
  6 Emberton Reds            12  5  4  3  24  15   +9  19
  7 Ashton Olympic           12  5  4  3  15  11   +4  19
  8 Mercia Bromham           12  5  3  4  13  12   +1  18
  9 Ousevale Borough         12  4  5  3  24  17   +7  17
 10 Caledon Simpson          12  4  4  4  20  16   +4  16
 11 Beckton Supermarine      12  4  4  4  11  11   +0  16
 12 Notegia Rangers          12  4  2  6   9  16   -7  14
 13 Bradwell Saints          12  4  2  6  16  27  -11  14
 14 Bromham City             12  3  3  6  15  22   -7  12
 15 Neathill                 12  2  5  5  15  21   -6  11
 16 Leston Town              12  3  2  7  10  21  -11  11
 17 Secklow                  12  2  5  5  14  26  -12  11
 18 Caversham                12  2  3  7  10  16   -6   9
 19 Sandwell Rangers         12  2  3  7  17  30  -13   9
 20 Dereapolis City          12  1  2  9   8  31  -23   5

by **Krytenia** » Fri Jul 21, 2023 3:04 pm

SEASON XXIII - PART THREE

KFA CUP - ROUND TWO
The big guns enter as the field is whittled down to thirty-two...and there's a few Premier Division sides paying the penalty. Chief among them are Hibs; winners of the competition the season before last, their run is ended immediately this time around as Grafton keep their cool from the spot. Secklow, meanwhile, are downed by Blakeland, whilst former top-flight side Adanac City account for supposed cup specialists Beckton – oddly, these three ties were the only ones to go to spot kicks.

The bloodshed didn't end there, though. Caversham and Monthuez may have swapped divisions last time out, but it's the Francophone side who take the honours in their tie, whilst Alun Belmwr and Arian's alma mater, New Cefn, dumped Neathill out with a two-one win.

Finally, there were holders Avidia United, who were taken to extra time by perennial nearly men Caledon before securing a place in Round Three in the additional half-hour.

MATCHDAY 13
Well, that weekend happened.

Saturday saw Notegia – again – throw a spanner in the works of a title contender, this time by holding Stanton. It's enough to put them top overnight, despite the best efforts of Casuals, who defeated a Dereapolis side looking ever more destined for Division One football next season by five goals to nil.

Sunday, meanwhile, saw first play third...and the Eagles got their wings completely and utterly clipped by a Royal Emberton side. Indeed, their six-three win over Avidia saw the Royals go top on goals scored, with the top four all separated by just a point.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bradwell Saints 4-2 Leston Town
Casuals Osteria 5-0 Dereapolis City
Caversham 1-2 Ashton Olympic
Emberton Reds 2-0 Bromham City
Mercia Bromham 1-0 Caledon Simpson
Notegia Rangers 1-1 Stanton Town
Ousevale Borough 3-1 Neathill
Secklow 0-1 Sandwell Rangers
SUNDAY
Beckton Supermarine 2-0 Emberton Hibernians
Royal Emberton 6-3 Avidia United

MATCHDAY 14
Here's the thing about leading the table on goals scored. You can have a tricky away game (hi Ashton!), work hard to nab the win in a lose fought encounter...and still lose top spot because someone else won that little bit harder, as Stanton did in the Ports Derby. Avidia and Casuals joined in on the fun too, beating Hibs and Leston respectively, so the top four is as you were.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bradwell Saints 0-1 Ousevale Borough
Bromham City 1-0 Caversham
Caledon Simpson 2-0 Notegia Rangers
Dereapolis City 1-1 Secklow
Emberton Hibernians 1-3 Avidia United
Leston Town 1-2 Casuals Osteria
Neathill 0-2 Mercia Bromham
Sandwell Rangers 0-1 Emberton Reds
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 0-1 Royal Emberton
Stanton Town 2-0 Beckton Supermarine

MATCHDAY 15
The Other Other Emberton Derby sees Royals share the points with Hibs, meaning Sunday's clash between Avidia and Stanton has top spot at stake. The Eagles win...

...but it almost isn't enough, as the other Sunday game sees Casuals hit six past Ousevale (!) and means it's now Avidia ahead of the Miners on goals scored.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 2-2 Bromham City
Beckton Supermarine 0-2 Caledon Simpson
Caversham 1-0 Sandwell Rangers
Emberton Reds 1-1 Dereapolis City
Mercia Bromham 2-2 Bradwell Saints
Notegia Rangers 1-0 Neathill
Royal Emberton 1-1 Emberton Hibernians
Secklow 1-0 Leston Town
SUNDAY
Avidia United 2-0 Stanton Town
Casuals Osteria 6-1 Ousevale Borough

MATCHDAY 16
Royals take over the “choker” role from their rival Reds as they draw a blank at the Midland. Stanton have better luck against Hibs and with both Avidia and Casuals fluffing their lines – the latter a victim of Mercia remembering they're supposed to be relevant – it's the Dockers a point clear at the top.

At the other end, Dereapolis win their first game since (ruffles papers) (shrugs) and are now only two points from safety. Pull your socks up, Cav.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bradwell Saints 1-2 Notegia Rangers
Bromham City 0-0 Royal Emberton
Dereapolis City 1-0 Caversham
Leston Town 0-1 Emberton Reds
Neathill 0-2 Beckton Supermarine
Ousevale Borough 2-0 Secklow
Sandwell Rangers 0-1 Ashton Olympic
Stanton Town 2-0 Emberton Hibernians
SUNDAY
Caledon Simpson 2-1 Avidia United
Casuals Osteria 0-3 Mercia Bromham

MATCHDAY 17
The problem with having things so close at the top is that occasionally teams fall over each other fighting at the summit. That's exactly what happened to Royal Emberton and Stanton Town, who cancelled each other out at Oxley Park. Avidia heaped misery on Neathill to reclaim first place, but Casuals are breathing down their necks despite a sputtering display against Notegia, who've punished teams for less this season.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 2-0 Dereapolis City
Avidia United 4-1 Neathill
Beckton Supermarine 1-2 Bradwell Saints
Bromham City 1-1 Sandwell Rangers
Caversham 1-0 Leston Town
Emberton Hibernians 1-0 Caledon Simpson
Notegia Rangers 0-1 Casuals Osteria
Secklow 0-5 Mercia Bromham
SUNDAY
Emberton Reds 1-2 Ousevale Borough
Royal Emberton 0-0 Stanton Town

MATCHDAY 18
Sandwell Rangers five, Royal Emberton three.

And this is why we don't take the Royals seriously as a title contender.

With the Beck Derby producing zero goals, Avidia are now a point clear at the top, with Stanton a point ahead of Casuals. Royals are now looking over their shoulders, with Mercia, Ousevale, and Ashton breathing down their necks.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bradwell Saints 1-4 Avidia United
Caledon Simpson 0-1 Stanton Town
Dereapolis City 0-1 Bromham City
Leston Town 0-2 Ashton Olympic
Neathill 2-1 Emberton Hibernians
Ousevale Borough 1-0 Caversham
Sandwell Rangers 5-3 Royal Emberton
Secklow 1-1 Notegia Rangers
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 0-0 Beckton Supermarine
Mercia Bromham 4-2 Emberton Reds

KFA CUP - ROUND THREE
That dull thud you just heard is the sound of Mercia Bromham hitting the deck after Adanac – with the help of extra time – threw them out of the cup. That second thud, by the way, is Bromham City landing on top of them as Walton took them down on penalties. Emberton Reds also join the pile of bodies following a customary choke job at the Munitis.

Avidia United, meanwhile, breathe a sigh of relief after being given the mother of all scares by New Cefn.

MATCHDAY 19
As the Premier Division hits the turn, the title is very much up for grabs. Avidia and Casuals cancel each other out, Stanton can't seal the deal against Neathill, and all of a sudden the navy and white striped behemoth looms over the horizon, with Mercia in fourth and only three points off the leaders. Just to make things extra spicy, Ashton are only a further two points back in sixth after adding to this season's “LOL Ousevale” list.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 3-0 Secklow
Bromham City 2-1 Leston Town
Caversham 1-5 Mercia Bromham
Emberton Hibernians 4-2 Bradwell Saints
Emberton Reds 2-0 Notegia Rangers
Royal Emberton 2-1 Caledon Simpson
Sandwell Rangers 1-2 Dereapolis City
Stanton Town 2-2 Neathill
SUNDAY
Avidia United 0-0 Casuals Osteria
Ashton Olympic 5-1 Ousevale Borough

Table after MD19:

Pos Team                      P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Avidia United            19  12  4   3  57  27  +30  40
  2 Stanton Town             19  11  6   2  28  10  +18  39
  3 Casuals Osteria          19  11  5   3  43  20  +23  38
  4 Mercia Bromham           19  11  4   4  35  17  +18  37
  5 Royal Emberton           19  10  7   2  38  23  +15  37
  6 Ashton Olympic           19  10  5   4  29  16  +13  35
  7 Emberton Reds            19   9  5   5  34  22  +12  32
  8 Ousevale Borough         19   9  5   5  35  30   +5  32
  9 Emberton Hibernians      19   9  3   7  26  24   +2  30
 10 Beckton Supermarine      19   7  5   7  19  17   +2  26
 11 Caledon Simpson          19   7  4   8  27  22   +5  25
 12 Bromham City             19   6  6   7  22  28   -6  24
 13 Notegia Rangers          19   6  4   9  14  24  -10  22
 14 Bradwell Saints          19   6  3  10  28  43  -15  21
 15 Sandwell Rangers         19   4  4  11  25  39  -14  16
 16 Secklow                  19   3  7   9  17  39  -22  16
 17 Caversham                19   4  3  12  14  26  -12  15
 18 Neathill                 19   3  6  10  21  36  -15  15
 19 Dereapolis City          19   3  4  12  13  42  -29  13
 20 Leston Town              19   3  2  14  14  34  -20  11

by **Krytenia** » Sun Jul 23, 2023 3:11 pm

SEASON XXIII - PART FOUR

MATCHDAY 20
The congestion at the top shows no sign of clearing as Leaders Avidia forget to bring their defenders to The Mound. Casuals and Mercia both take advantage, whilst Stanton take top spot after calmly doing in their Abbia Mersa rivals at Abbey Road.

It's a weekend to forget, meanwhile, for Royals, who lose ground on the leaders after losing to Dereapolis – Dereapolis! – whilst Ousevale's season continues to hit the skids with defeat against the other Bromham.

Results:
SATURDAY
Casuals Osteria 2-1 Emberton Hibernians
Dereapolis City 2-1 Royal Emberton
Emberton Reds 1-0 Beckton Supermarine
Leston Town 0-1 Sandwell Rangers
Neathill 0-1 Caledon Simpson
Notegia Rangers 1-1 Caversham
Ousevale Borough 1-2 Bromham City
Secklow 3-3 Avidia United
SUNDAY
Bradwell Saints 0-2 Stanton Town
Mercia Bromham 3-1 Ashton Olympic

MATCHDAY 21
Another week, another change at the top. Casuals catapult themselves above Stanton with a hard-earned away win, but it's Avidia back on the summit after they demolished a pedestrian Reds side five-nil. Fourth-placed Mercia had a Sunday to forget, though, done over by their cross-city rivals at the Midland.

Ashton, meanwhile, outdid even the Eagles by putting half a dozen past Notegia; they may be only sixth, but there's just six points separating them from the leaders. Write them off at your own risk.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 6-1 Notegia Rangers
Avidia United 5-0 Emberton Reds
Caledon Simpson 2-4 Bradwell Saints
Caversham 1-0 Beckton Supermarine
Dereapolis City 2-1 Leston Town
Emberton Hibernians 4-0 Secklow
Royal Emberton 1-0 Neathill
Sandwell Rangers 1-1 Ousevale Borough
SUNDAY
Bromham City 3-2 Mercia Bromham
Stanton Town 1-2 Casuals Osteria

MATCHDAY 22
They play in scarlet shirts, they mounted a genuine title challenge, and now they're choking hard. The twist, though, is that it isn't Emberton Reds for once. The Dockers had a shocker against Secklow and now find themselves not only five points behind the leaders – Avidia labouring to a win at the Draconium, whilst Casuals beat Caledon – but in fourth place thanks to Royal Emberton heaping more misery on bottom side Leston.

Also, yes, Ousevale, that was a lovely tonking of Derry there, but you're still seventh, so meh.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 0-0 Ashton Olympic
Bradwell Saints 2-1 Neathill
Caversham 2-3 Avidia United
Leston Town 0-2 Royal Emberton
Mercia Bromham 0-1 Sandwell Rangers
Notegia Rangers 0-1 Bromham City
Ousevale Borough 7-0 Dereapolis City
Secklow 1-0 Stanton Town
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 3-1 Caledon Simpson
Emberton Reds 1-1 Emberton Hibernians

MATCHDAY 23
A bunch of goals, a genuine lead at the top, and Ousevale getting embarrassed by the worst team in the division. What more could you ask for?

OK, so maybe that's a bit glib, and it glosses over a few other things. Things such as Stanton continuing their choke job by shipping four at home to the usual owners of that title. Things like Mercia scoring three against Dereapolis and still losing. Things like Royal Emberton annihilating Bradwell to keep pace with the leaders, who are now two points clear after breezing past poor Neathill whilst Avidia could only muster a draw In the south-west.

Things like that.

Results:
SATURDAY
Royal Emberton 6-2 Bradwell Saints
Leston Town 1-0 Ousevale Borough
Neathill 1-5 Casuals Osteria
Dereapolis City 4-3 Mercia Bromham
Caledon Simpson 3-2 Secklow
Sandwell Rangers 2-1 Notegia Rangers
Bromham City 0-1 Beckton Supermarine
Emberton Hibernians 3-0 Caversham
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 1-1 Avidia United
Stanton Town 1-4 Emberton Reds

MATCHDAY 24
The top three manage, between them, to win fourteen-nil on aggregate. Casuals beating Bradwell comfortably is a surprise to nobody; neither, indeed, is United stomping all over Bromham City. Royals, on the other hand? That one was a surprise.

They put six past Ousevale.

In Ousevale.

Someone call an animal protection charity, because those Tigers are being abused.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 2-0 Emberton Hibernians
Avidia United 4-0 Bromham City
Beckton Supermarine 1-1 Sandwell Rangers
Caversham 1-3 Stanton Town
Emberton Reds 2-0 Caledon Simpson
Mercia Bromham 2-0 Leston Town
Notegia Rangers 1-0 Dereapolis City
Secklow 1-0 Neathill
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 4-0 Bradwell Saints
Ousevale Borough 0-6 Royal Emberton

KFA CUP - ROUND FOUR
Ousevale's season comes in danger of truly going from bad to worse, as fifth-tier Grafton hold them off for eighty-three minutes before substitute Dean Moxey spares the Tigers' blushes with the only goal of the game. Elsewhere, both of the all-Division One ties go the distance, putting Adanac and Norton in the last eight, where they'll be joined by the title chasing trio of Casuals, Royals, and Avidia, as well as West Mercians Ashton and Leston.

Walton City 0-2 Casuals Osteria
Avidia United 4-1 Notegia Rangers
Leston Town 3-1 Quinton City
Westleigh Athletic 1-1 Adanac City (1-1 AET, 2-3 PKs)
Norton 1-1 Noton United (1-1 AET, 5-4 PKs)
Ashton Olympic 3-0 Beldon Wanderers
Sandwell Rangers 1-2 Royal Emberton
Ousevale Borough 1-0 Grafton Town

MATCHDAY 25
First meets third at Oxley Park – and it's the Royals laying down a marker in a tense encounter, Darren Gabriel's free kick proving the difference between the two sides. Amid the chaos, the Eagles snatch a win in Sandwell to retake top spot.

The Mercian Classic, meanwhile, may not mean as much in terms of the league this season – especially for Ousevale – but it does produce a five goal thriller that culminates in three points for the Tigers.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bradwell Saints 2-2 Secklow
Bromham City 1-1 Emberton Hibernians
Caledon Simpson 1-1 Caversham
Dereapolis City 3-0 Beckton Supermarine
Leston Town 0-1 Notegia Rangers
Neathill 0-3 Emberton Reds
Sandwell Rangers 0-1 Avidia United
Stanton Town 0-0 Ashton Olympic
SUNDAY
Ousevale Borough 3-2 Mercia Bromham
Royal Emberton 1-0 Casuals Osteria

MATCHDAY 26
Let it not be said that Royal Emberton don't treat Nova Mercia's “big two” fairly. A scant few weeks after humiliating Ousevale six-nil at the Southern Arena, they go and do the exact same thing against Mercia Bromham at the Cygnus. They're not even the only side to rack up the half-dozen this weekend either, as Casuals go to town on Secklow, and the Reds notch six of their own against Bradwell. Admittedly, though, the latter also conceded four because Reds. Avidia can only muster a couple against Derry, but it's enough to keep them a point clear at the top.

At the other end, Leston's goalless draw against Beckton lifts them off the bottom at the expense of Neathill; both sides, however, are still nine points from safety.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 1-1 Caledon Simpson
Beckton Supermarine 0-0 Leston Town
Bromham City 0-3 Stanton Town
Caversham 1-0 Neathill
Emberton Hibernians 2-0 Sandwell Rangers
Emberton Reds 6-4 Bradwell Saints
Notegia Rangers 1-2 Ousevale Borough
Secklow 0-6 Casuals Osteria
SUNDAY
Avidia United 2-0 Dereapolis City
Mercia Bromham 0-6 Royal Emberton

Table after MD26:

Pos Team                      P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Avidia United            26  17  6   3  76  33  +43  57
  2 Casuals Osteria          26  17  5   4  65  25  +40  56
  3 Royal Emberton           26  16  7   3  61  27  +34  55
  4 Stanton Town             26  14  7   5  38  18  +20  49
  5 Emberton Reds            26  14  6   6  51  33  +18  48
  6 Ashton Olympic           26  12  9   5  40  22  +18  45
  7 Mercia Bromham           26  13  4   9  47  35  +12  43
  8 Ousevale Borough         26  12  6   8  49  43   +6  42
  9 Emberton Hibernians      26  12  5   9  38  30   +8  41
 10 Bromham City             26   9  7  10  29  40  -11  34
 11 Caledon Simpson          26   9  6  11  36  35   +1  33
 12 Beckton Supermarine      26   8  8  10  21  23   -2  32
 13 Notegia Rangers          26   8  5  13  20  36  -16  29
 14 Bradwell Saints          26   8  4  14  42  66  -24  28
 15 Sandwell Rangers         26   7  6  13  31  45  -14  27
 16 Dereapolis City          26   7  4  15  24  57  -33  25
 17 Secklow                  26   5  9  12  26  57  -31  24
 18 Caversham                26   6  5  15  21  37  -16  23
 19 Leston Town              26   4  3  19  16  42  -26  15
 20 Neathill                 26   3  6  17  23  50  -27  15

by **Krytenia** » Mon Jul 24, 2023 3:01 am

SEASON XXIII - PART FIVE

MATCHDAY 27
Secklow may have been humped six-nil at the hands of the Royals, but at least they're in good company in that regard. Besides, unlike Ousevale and Mercia, they didn't do it in front of their own fans. Somewhat more disheartening for the Hoops is Caversham's win over Bradwell, which puts Secklow back in the bottom three.

For Royal Emberton, meanwhile, the win means pressure is kept on the top two, and with Avidia uncharacteristically dropping points at Lay's Road, it's now Casuals a point clear courtesy of their win over the Reds.

Results:
SATURDAY
Caledon Simpson 1-2 Bromham City
Dereapolis City 1-0 Emberton Hibernians
Leston Town 1-1 Avidia United
Mercia Bromham 4-3 Notegia Rangers
Neathill 1-2 Ashton Olympic
Ousevale Borough 1-0 Beckton Supermarine
Royal Emberton 6-0 Secklow
Sandwell Rangers 0-0 Stanton Town
SUNDAY
Bradwell Saints 0-1 Caversham
Casuals Osteria 2-1 Emberton Reds

MATCHDAY 28
It's been a while since Notegia blew a big hole in someone's title hopes, but the Agents of Chaos™ are at it again, this time downing the Royals by the odd goal in seven. Casuals down struggling Cav, Avidia continue Ousevale's miserable season, and those two are looking dangerously like stretching away from the field coming into the latter part of the season.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 5-1 Bradwell Saints
Beckton Supermarine 1-1 Mercia Bromham
Bromham City 1-2 Neathill
Caversham 0-1 Casuals Osteria
Emberton Hibernians 3-0 Leston Town
Emberton Reds 2-1 Secklow
Sandwell Rangers 0-2 Caledon Simpson
Stanton Town 0-1 Dereapolis City
SUNDAY
Avidia United 2-1 Ousevale Borough
Notegia Rangers 4-3 Royal Emberton

MATCHDAY 29
Fourth-placed Ashton may be a little too far from the top three to make a title charge, but they can sure as hell wreck it for someone else. Specifically, in this case, Casuals. The Bears' win means the Miners relinquish top spot to an Avidia side that eventually got the better of Mercia, with the Royals cruising through the Emberton Derby as they hand on to their own title challenge for dear life.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bradwell Saints 0-2 Bromham City
Dereapolis City 2-0 Caledon Simpson
Leston Town 1-3 Stanton Town
Mercia Bromham 2-3 Avidia United
Neathill 0-0 Sandwell Rangers
Notegia Rangers 0-1 Beckton Supermarine
Ousevale Borough 1-1 Emberton Hibernians
Secklow 0-1 Caversham
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 1-3 Ashton Olympic
Royal Emberton 3-0 Emberton Reds

MATCHDAY 30
Honestly, the phrases “title contender” and “lost to Notegia Rangers” should not be synonymous, and yet...here we are. Avidia are the latest victims of the Tyfield team, and they lose top spot as a result. The fact that this is becoming a commonplace occurrence that these games are being picked for live telly says all you need to know.

At the other end, meanwhile, Sandwell's hammering of Bradwell does wonders for the other Rangers' hops of staying up.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 2-0 Secklow
Beckton Supermarine 1-2 Royal Emberton
Bromham City 0-2 Casuals Osteria
Caledon Simpson 2-0 Leston Town
Caversham 3-0 Emberton Reds
Dereapolis City 1-0 Neathill
Emberton Hibernians 0-5 Mercia Bromham
Stanton Town 2-2 Ousevale Borough
SUNDAY
Avidia United 0-1 Notegia Rangers
Sandwell Rangers 4-1 Bradwell Saints

KFA CUP - QUARTER-FINALS
The last of the Division One sides fall, but push their title-chasing opponents all the way. Norton, appearing in the last eight for the second season in a row, are edged out at Carstairs Park, whilst Adanac were unfortunate not to hold on until at least extra time at home to Royal Emberton.

Leston raise the most eyebrows with a demolition of local rivals Ashton – despite looking all but doomed in the league – with Ousevale making up for their own league travails by beating Casuals on penalties to complete the last four.

Adanac City 2-3 Royal Emberton
Leston Town 3-0 Ashton Olympic
Ousevale Borough 0-0 Casuals Osteria (0-0 AET, 4-3 PKs)
Avidia United 1-0 Norton

MATCHDAY 31
ROYAL EMBERTON ARE TOP OF THE LEAGUE.

THIS IS NOT A DRILL.

What was a drill, though, was Patrick McLaggan's howitzer of an equaliser against Avidia that secured a point for Beckton, and more crucially two dropped for United. Casuals, meanwhile, find themselves washed away by Sandwell at a rainy Coalfields, whilst Leston's cup joy is short-lived as the bottom side lose to second-bottom Neathill, with relegation almost assured at this point.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 1-1 Avidia United
Bradwell Saints 3-0 Dereapolis City
Emberton Reds 3-0 Ashton Olympic
Mercia Bromham 1-1 Stanton Town
Notegia Rangers 2-1 Emberton Hibernians
Ousevale Borough 3-5 Caledon Simpson
Royal Emberton 2-1 Caversham
Secklow 0-2 Bromham City
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 2-4 Sandwell Rangers
Leston Town 0-2 Neathill

MATCHDAY 32
I believe the phrase is “holding pattern”.

Avidia and Royals cancel each other out, Casuals draw a Derry side that have steadily been charting a course away from the bottom three...hell, even fourth-placed Ashton can only draw with Caversham, though this does allow Stanton to take the place from them after a win against, ironically, Notegia.

At the bottom, Bradwell's win over Leston means the Gears now need snookers to stay up, whilst Sandwell will be looking over their shoulders after defeat to a Secklow side doing their damnedest to clamber out from the abyss.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 1-1 Caversham
Bromham City 2-2 Emberton Reds
Caledon Simpson 1-0 Mercia Bromham
Dereapolis City 3-3 Casuals Osteria
Emberton Hibernians 1-0 Beckton Supermarine
Leston Town 0-2 Bradwell Saints
Neathill 1-6 Ousevale Borough
Stanton Town 4-0 Notegia Rangers
SUNDAY
Mercia Bromham 3-1 Ashton Olympic
Stanton Town 1-0 Dereapolis City

Table after MD32:

Pos Team                      P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Royal Emberton           32  20  8   4  78  34  +44  68
  2 Avidia United            32  19  9   4  84  40  +44  66
  3 Casuals Osteria          32  20  6   6  76  36  +40  66
  4 Stanton Town             32  16 10   6  48  23  +25  58
  5 Ashton Olympic           32  16 10   6  53  29  +24  58
  6 Emberton Reds            32  16  7   9  59  44  +15  55
  7 Mercia Bromham           32  15  6  11  60  44  +16  51
  8 Ousevale Borough         32  14  8  10  63  54   +9  50
  9 Emberton Hibernians      32  14  6  12  44  39   +5  48
 10 Caledon Simpson          32  13  6  13  47  42   +5  45
 11 Bromham City             32  12  8  12  38  47   -9  44
 12 Notegia Rangers          32  11  5  16  30  49  -19  38
 13 Dereapolis City          32  11  5  16  32  63  -31  38
 14 Beckton Supermarine      32   9 10  13  25  29   -4  37
 15 Sandwell Rangers         32   9  8  15  39  51  -12  35
 16 Bradwell Saints          32  10  4  18  49  78  -29  34
 17 Caversham                32   9  6  17  28  41  -13  33
 18 Secklow                  32   6  9  17  28  70  -42  27
 19 Neathill                 32   5  7  20  29  60  -31  22
 20 Leston Town              32   4  4  24  18  55  -37  16

by **Krytenia** » Mon Jul 24, 2023 6:45 am

SEASON XXIII - PART SIX

MATCHDAY 33
Poor Leston, we hardly knew ye. The Gears are finally put out of their misery – and how! - against a Casuals side chasing hard at the top of the table. Surprisingly, their five-one win was only the fourth largest of the day, as Stanton, Emberton Reds, and especially Ousevale filled their boots.

Sunday saw a near-wobble from Royal Emberton before Enrique Garcia secured the points against Ashton, whilst Avidia kept up the pressure with a routine win at home to Hibs.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 0-5 Stanton Town
Casuals Osteria 5-1 Leston Town – Leston Town are relegated
Caversham 1-1 Bromham City
Emberton Reds 6-1 Sandwell Rangers
Mercia Bromham 3-1 Neathill
Notegia Rangers 1-1 Caledon Simpson
Ousevale Borough 7-1 Bradwell Saints
Secklow 0-0 Dereapolis City
SUNDAY
Royal Emberton 1-0 Ashton Olympic
Avidia United 2-0 Emberton Hibernians

MATCHDAY 34
Five matches to go In the season, and now is not the time to be dropping points for the three teams chasing the title.

So, of course, they all do.

Royals are undone by the short away trip to Paschal Park, whilst Casuals (against Ousevale) and Avidia (against Stanton) at least have the excuse of doing it against “big name” opposition.

At the bottom, Neathill at least stave off mathematical relegation for another week – in part thanks to Mercia beating Bradwell – but it's a case of when, rather than if, the Hillmen drop through the trapdoor.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bradwell Saints 1-4 Mercia Bromham
Bromham City 1-3 Ashton Olympic
Caledon Simpson 1-2 Beckton Supermarine
Dereapolis City 3-2 Emberton Reds
Emberton Hibernians 1-0 Royal Emberton
Leston Town 0-1 Secklow
Neathill 1-1 Notegia Rangers
Sandwell Rangers 1-2 Caversham
SUNDAY
Ousevale Borough 1-0 Casuals Osteria
Stanton Town 1-1 Avidia United

MATCHDAY 35
No changes in the top three as Avidia spluttered past Caledon on Saturday before Casuals held off Mercia at the Cygnus and Royals blasted Bromham City on Sunday.

At the bottom, meanwhile, Neathill's relegation was confirmed with an ultimately fruitless display at Orange Street; Secklow's hiding at the hands of Ousevale means that the Hoops are odds-on to be the other side facing the drop.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 4-0 Sandwell Rangers
Avidia United 1-0 Caledon Simpson
Beckton Supermarine 2-0 Neathill – Neathill are relegated
Caversham 2-0 Dereapolis City
Emberton Hibernians 0-0 Stanton Town
Emberton Reds 1-0 Leston Town
Notegia Rangers 2-2 Bradwell Saints
Secklow 0-6 Ousevale Borough
SUNDAY
Mercia Bromham 1-2 Casuals Osteria
Royal Emberton 5-0 Bromham City

MATCHDAY 36
Stanton may be giving up the title, but they're not doing it without a fight. Hence why the Royals left the Harbour Stadium empty-handed care of Jonathan Aubrey's strike. Avidia blow the chance to go top as Neathill flash them a middle finger on their way out of the door, whilst Casuals now lead the table after a rare event this season – a frontrunner taking all three points from Tyfield's favourite chaos demons.

At the bottom, Secklow's draw against Mercia is an unexpected point; combined with Sandwell losing to Bromham's other club, it makes life interesting down there going into the penultimate matchday.

Results:
SATURDAY
Sandwell Rangers 0-2 Bromham City
Caledon Simpson 1-3 Emberton Hibernians
Dereapolis City 1-2 Ashton Olympic
Neathill 2-1 Avidia United
Leston Town 0-1 Caversham
Bradwell Saints 2-2 Beckton Supermarine
Ousevale Borough 1-0 Emberton Reds
Casuals Osteria 2-1 Notegia Rangers
SUNDAY
Mercia Bromham 2-2 Secklow
Stanton Town 1-0 Royal Emberton

KFA CUP - SEMI-FINALS
Leston Town have, let's be honest, been god-awful in the league. Somehow, though, they've achieved demi-godhood in the KFA Cup. Ousevale trudged out of the Draconium Arena with their tails between their legs as the already relegated Gears punch their ticket to the Isserson courtesy of Derek Patterson's penalty.

In the other semi, two title challengers enter, but only Avidia leave as the Royals fall agonisingly short of a late equaliser.

Results:
Leston Town 1-0 Ousevale Borough (@ Draconium Arena, Caversham)
Royal Emberton 0-1 Avidia United (@ Coalfields, Osteria)

MATCHDAY 37
Casuals, you chose the worst time to be bang average. To be honest, but for a handful of tidy saves from Marc Marosic, Beckton could quite easily have taken all three point. What's worse is that Royals and United both won comfortably, meaning that the Miners start the day in third place, albeit only a point off top spot.

Those wins also have connotations at the bottom of the table too, as the defeated teams in question were Sandwell and Bradwell. With Secklow winning at Knott Crescent, the distance between Sandwell in safety and Secklow staring into oblivion is goal difference, with Bradwell in full PANIK mode a solitary point ahead.

Add in Ashton and Stanton pushing for fourth spot – and being the only non-Eagles fans hoping that Leston don't win the Cup – it all adds up to a tasty final day.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 2-0 Leston Town
Bromham City 0-1 Dereapolis City
Caversham 0-1 Ousevale Borough
Emberton Hibernians 0-1 Neathill
Emberton Reds 2-3 Mercia Bromham
Notegia Rangers 0-2 Secklow
Royal Emberton 6-1 Sandwell Rangers
Stanton Town 7-4 Caledon Simpson
SUNDAY
Avidia United 4-2 Bradwell Saints
Beckton Supermarine 1-1 Casuals Osteria

Table after MD37:

Pos Team                      P   W   D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Royal Emberton           37  23   8   6  90  37  +53  77
  2 Avidia United            37  22  10   5  93  45  +48  76
  3 Casuals Osteria          37  23   7   7  86  41  +45  76
  4 Ashton Olympic           37  20  10   7  64  32  +32  70
  5 Stanton Town             37  19  12   6  62  28  +34  69
  6 Ousevale Borough         37  19   8  10  79  55  +24  65
  7 Mercia Bromham           37  18   7  12  73  52  +21  61
  8 Emberton Reds            37  18   7  12  70  52  +18  61
  9 Emberton Hibernians      37  16   7  14  48  43   +5  55
 10 Bromham City             37  13   9  15  42  57  -15  48
 11 Caledon Simpson          37  13   7  17  54  56   -2  46
 12 Beckton Supermarine      37  11  12  14  32  38   -6  45
 13 Dereapolis City          37  13   6  18  37  69  -32  45
 14 Caversham                37  12   7  18  34  44  -10  43
 15 Notegia Rangers          37  11   8  18  35  57  -22  41
 16 Bradwell Saints          37  10   6  21  57  97  -40  36
 17 Sandwell Rangers         37   9   8  20  42  71  -29  35
 18 Secklow                  37   8  11  18  33  78  -45  35
 19 Neathill                 37   7   8  22  34  67  -33  29  R
 20 Leston Town              37   4   4  29  19  65  -46  16  R

by **Krytenia** » Mon Jul 24, 2023 4:20 pm

SEASON XXIII - THE FINALE

Tom Contares reports

15:00 - It's that time of the season again, where fates are decided and Margaret sits back and watches the chaos unfold. If this season's anything to go by, probably from a well-kept townhouse in the nicer part of Tyfield. The title, fourth place (and a week's wait for whether it's enough for a Challengers' Cup spot) and the final team to face the axe are all to be decided.

15:02 - First order of business is the final whereabouts of the Gabriel Kennedy Trophy. Right now, it's at Walton Gardens, which is where Royal Emberton face Caledon Simpson. The Royals are in charge of their own destiny, but if it all goes wrong, the KFA have a helicopter on standby what with Osteria being not too far down the road. That's where Casuals meet Avidia United in a clash of second versus third, waiting for the league leaders to slip up whilst aiming to secure the win for themselves – especially in the case of the home side, who need all three points to have any chance of putting blue and amber ribbons on the old pot.

15:08 - At the other end of the table, it's all about Secklow. They're currently eighteenth, but with both Sandwell Rangers and Bradwell Saints within striking distance, they're not going down without a fight. They face a Beckton Supermarine side who are, in all honesty, already off on their summer holidays. Sandwell, meanwhile, have a tricky away tie against a resurgent Dereapolis City, whilst Bradwell will be confident of getting something of an Emberton Hibernians side with nothing left to play for.

15:14 - The other interesting race is that for fourth position. Now, there's nothing guaranteed for this as things stand – largely because bottom side Leston Town are somehow in the KFA Cup final – but two sides hoping they can't pull off the fairytale against United next Saturday are Stanton Town and Ashton Olympic. The Bears are currently in the box seat in that regard, a point clear of the Dockers, but they have the unenviable task of taking on Ousevale Borough. Stanton, on the other hand, have the easier tie on paper, as they face the already relegated Neathill at the QES Stadium.

15:21 - That leaves three games with nothing on the line. Expect Leston to trot out the reserves as they host Bromham City with one eye on Division One next season and the other on the Cup final. Notegia Rangers finish a season where they've been in focus for the strangest reasons with a home game against Emberton Reds, hoping to round out the season with another eyebrow raising victory. Finally, there's Mercia Bromham, hoping to put a cap on a disappointing season with victory over a Caversham side that will probably be quite happy with their performances this term.

15:41 - Bad news for Avidia fans. Gil Sanchez was meant to be returning from suspension today following his sending off against Neathill, but he pulled up in the warm-up and has not been named in the team. George Larsson keeps his place in the starting XI instead. Ryan Holtz, meanwhile, does get into the team for Casuals despite question marks regarding his fitness in the last couple of days. He looked good in the warm-ups, so clearly manager Marcus Frankel isn't too concerned.

15:56 - Last call for putting the kettle on, or raiding the cooler. Delete as applicable.

16:00 - KICKOFF
Ten synchronised whistles, and we are off!

16:01 - GOAL. MBR 1-0 CAV (D Rivers)
Well, that didn't take long. It might not be one of the focal matches of the afternoon, but Mercia are taking no prisoners, scoring with their first attack of the day and catching Caversham cold. Daryl Rivers' goal clocks in at just thirty-four seconds.

16:04 - GOAL. MBR 2-0 CAV (B Stewart)
Krytenian international Ben Stewart caps off a fine passing move to double Mercia's lead. Could be a long afternoon for the orange and green.

16:08 - GOAL. NOT 0-1 EMR (B McShane)
Still no goals from the seven games with something on the line, but that matters little to Brendan McShane, who connects with Owen Haller's cross to put the Reds in front at Knott Crescent.

16:11 – RED CARD. MBR 2-0 CAV
Oh dear, Dragons. Full-back Phil Ashton is studs up and out of control as he challenges Phil Matthews, and the referee rightfully gives him an early bath. Matthews, thankfully, looks OK as he gets back to his feet.

16:21 - GOAL. CAS 0-1 AVU (R Costello)
It might have been scrappy, but they all count. Casuals fail to clear their lines properly from a corner, the ball pings about in the box, George Larsson has his shot parried, and Ryan Costello makes it to the rebound first to bundle the ball home. As things stand, it's Avidia taking the title.

16:29 - GOAL. MBR 3-0 CAV (B Stewart)
A second for Stewart, and Mercia three up inside half an hour against a Caversham side that looked pedestrian before they were a man down. Stick a fork in this one as a contest.

16:31 - GOAL. BRA 0-1 EMH (T Gideon)
This isn't the place to go into politics, so let's just mention the fact that goalscorer Tim Gideon's mother has an Ochre Islands passport and move on.

16:36 - GOAL. SIM 1-0 REM (C Croft)
Young Callum Croft may just have broken Royals fans' hearts there. It's a well-taken strike, to be fair, but it's absolutely the last thing the leaders needed. Avidia's grip on the title just got that bit tighter, and the away fans are in full voice at Coalfields now.

16:39 - GOAL. MBR 4-0 CAV (E Culverhouse)
Eddie Culverhouse gets in on the action as Caversham fold like an origami tutorial.

16:41 – PENALTY. SIM 1-0 REM
Chance for Caledon to kill this tie as Malcolm Kirsten leaves an arm out. Definitely have to give that one as a handball, despite the defenders' protests.

16:42 - GOAL. OUS 1-0 ASH (M Edwards)
Rumours are that Maurice Edwards might be on the move in the summer. That cracking volley is a great advertisement for his services if that's the case. Still waiting for the spot kick at Walton Gardens, by the way.

16:43 – MISSED PENALTY. SIM 1-0 REM
Carson Kenzie gets too much under that one, and blazes his kick over the bar. Malcolm Kirsten's relieved face says it all.

16:45 - GOAL. MBR 5-0 CAV (D Rivers)
Caversham are being shown absolutely no mercy at the Cygnus, Rivers bagging his second.

16:47 – RED CARD. SEC 0-0 BEC
A rush of blood to the head, an elbow to the face of Jordan Tillotson, and that's Beckton down to ten men. Mo Hadji hasn't covered himself in glory there.

16:51 - HALF-TIME
Hadji's sending off extends the first half there, but with the half-time whistle now having gone, it's time to re-synchronise those watches. Back in fifteen.

17:04 - Changes at the Cygnus, with Rivers and Stewart both in their tracksuits as the teams head out for the second half. Daniel Grade and Grant Chadwick, both academy boys, will start the second half. Thus is the luxury of a five-nil lead.

17:06 - KICK-OFF
Avidia start the second half top of the table, Stanton are currently in fourth, whilst all three teams in the relegation fight are level on points as things stand...which is bad news for Secklow. Off we go for the last forty-five!

17:08 – DISALLOWED GOAL. SIM 1-0 REM
Royal Emberton starting the second half on an absolute tear, and Ewan Jordan has the ball in the net for the side from the capital. Unfortunately, he's mistimed his run and the assistant official has the flag up. Back to the drawing board, lads.

17:09 - GOAL. LES 0-1 BRC (L Jackson)
That one definitely counts, though. Leston's second string has held up well, but Luke Jackson's powerful shot flies past Dan Wharton into the top corner. A strike worthy of a more important match than this.

17:11 - GOAL. MBR 6-0 CAV (D Grade)
Merciless Mercia are at it again, with Daniel Grade opening his account five minutes into his debut. Poor Caversham; it's like watching the vet putting an old dog down. They don't deserve this.

17:14 - GOAL. NEA 1-0 STA (K Callan)
Ken Callan whips home a tidy free-kick, and the Dockers relinquish fourth place back to Olympic.

17:17 - GOAL. CAS 1-1 AVU (R Archer)
Casuals are level! Not only that, but with Royals still behind in Simpson, one more goal for the Miners gives them the championship as things stand.

17:21 - GOAL. NOT 0-2 EMR (B Hora)
Owen Haller with his second assist of the game; this time, it's whipping in a free-kick that Ben Hora leaps highest to nod home.

17:23 – PENALTY, RED CARD. MBR 6-0 CAV
The day somehow gets worse for Caversham. The Cygnus is already mostly devoid of orange shirts, but it looks like even the diehards have had enough as Amanda Bach gets it all wrong. Chadwick is bundled over by her clumsy attempt to play the ball, and the Dragons are down to nine. Krytenia U18s keeper Daniel Schiavo comes on for Shaun Langer, who's probably happy to hit the showers after cutting a lonely figure up front all afternoon.

17:24 – GOAL. MBR 7(SEVEN)-0 CAV (K Jameson)
Wasn't expecting to have to break out the written-out numbers today, but here we are. With both usual penalty takers off the pitch, defender Kevin Jameson steps up and buries his shot. Schiavo had no chance there, top pen.

17:28 - GOAL. DER 1-0 SAN (M Snead)
Cat, meet pigeons. Nobody's marking Marcus Snead from a corner, and Rangers pay the price as the Dereapolis striker glances the ball just inside the far post. That's Sandwell down unless they, or ten-man Beckton, can find a goal.

17:31 - GOAL. OUS 1-1 ASH (J Connor)
Ashton grab an equaliser at the Southern Arena, with James Connor latching on to a Carl Webb through-ball before slotting past Mark Davis in the Ousevale goal. The Bears are looking a bit more secure in fourth now.

17:33 - GOAL. NEA 1-1 STA (J Aubrey)
Or are they? Maybe Stanton got word of Connor's goal, because they've immediately responded. Jonathan Aubrey's goal is, for want of a better phrase, an absolute screamer from thirty yards out.

17:35 - GOALS. MBR 8(EIGHT)-0 CAV (G Chadwick), BRA 0-2 EMH (E Kenney)
Grant Chadwick heaps misery upon misery to Caversham at the Cygnus, whilst the Bradwell faithful will be hoping that the other results go their way as Eoghan Kenney doubles Hibs' lead.

17:37 - GOAL. SIM 1-1 REM (L Kendrick)
Caledon fans, look away now. Callum Croft being called for a foul in Royals territory looked innocuous enough, but then goalkeeper Louis Kendrick actually took the free-kick. A hopeful ball upfield evades everyone – including home keeper Adam Leagrave – bouncing almost apologetically into the net. You'll not be shocked to hear that it's Kendrick's first ever Premier Division goal, and it means we're back to where we started the afternoon at the top table. One goal – from any of four teams – could well decide the title.

17:39 - GOAL. DER 2-0 SAN (M Snead)
He's at it again. Snead beats two defenders before slotting past the Sandwell keeper. Rangers' survival pretty much depends on Beckton at this point.

17:41 - GOAL. MBR 9(NINE)-0 CAV (G Chadwick)
Stop, Mercia! They're already dead!

17:44 - GOAL. SIM 1-2 REM (E Jordan)
Absolute scenes at Walton Gardens! Ewan Jordan had one chalked off earlier, but there's no doubting this one as he slots home a lovely pull-back pass from Andrew Kirsten. Will there be wine and navy ribbons on the trophy?

17:47 - GOAL. OUS 2-1 ASH (L Jones)
Ashton concede a cheap corner, and are punished for it as Leon Jones nods in a go-ahead goal for Ousevale. Stanton are now in fourth with time running out.

17:49 – GOAL. MBR 10(TEN)-0 CAV (G Chadwick)
A second half hat-trick for the teenager, and Caversham are standing here hoping this match would hurry up and end already.

17:51 – GOAL. NOT 0-3 EMR (A Madan)
Into stoppage time, and Alexander Madan pops up to volley home a third for the Reds.

17:53 – ROYAL EMBERTON ARE CHAMPIONS
They've still got a minute to add on at Coalfields, but it's not going to matter as the final whistle has blown at Walton Gardens. Royal Emberton cannot be caught, and they will lift the Gabriel Kennedy trophy for the first time! The season's not done yet, though, there's a VAR check at The Mound...

17:56 – PENALTY. SEC 0-0 BEC
This game's been pretty dour, but with seconds remaining, it might just provide some late drama. Jules Renard went down theatrically, and the ref was happy to let play continue. One voice in his ear later, he's off to the monitor. I'm still convinced that the worst Marc Siddle did was breathe on him, but the booth seems to think otherwise, and ten-man Beckton have a penalty. Reece Eddington to take...

17:57 – WELP. SEC 0-0 BEC
Ross Lakho, the beers will be on you tonight! Eddington's penalty was decent enough, but Lakho got enough of it to turn it round the post. We're past the allotted stoppage time now, but with VAR and the penalty, we think there's about a minute left to play. Job one is to clear the corner, and Lakho claims the ball with authority once it's whipped in. He'll be in no hurry to get that out of his hands.

17:58 - FULL TIME
Secklow have done the Houdini act and they'll be back playing Prem football next season. Honestly the side that deserved to go down today was Bradwell, but the results went in their favour. Sorry, Sandwell.

by **Krytenia** » Thu Oct 12, 2023 4:44 pm

SEASON XXIV PREVIEW

ADANAC CITY

Expected First XI
1. Nichi Pomander (NPH), 29, GK
2. Raul Romero (KRY), 26, LB
5. Ross Sigurdsson (KRY), 28, CB
6. Lucas Singer (KRY), 24, CB
3. Christian Gati (KRY), 22, RB
4. Victor Baskerville (KRY), 25, CM
8. Carlos Alonso (KRY), 22, CM
11. Francisco Ibanez (KRY), 23, LW
7. Michael Brady (KRY), 19, RW
10. Devon Morris (KRY), 21, HF
9. Michael Clay (KRY), 25, ST

Nickname: The Reds
Home ground: Adanac Municipal Stadium, cap. 32,155
Rivals: Quinton City, Sporting Adanac
Sponsor: n/a
Manager: Damien Iliev (KRY), age 45
Last season: 1st, Division One
Players in: Nichi Pomander (Goodfeather FC (NPH), free)
Players out: Angelo Morris (retired)

Adanac was originally built as a planned city for the influx of refugees from the long-since dead nation of Hockey Canada after their government, for want of a better word, imploded. As such, the general vibe of the city is a strong sense of community with a side order of Communism. Success on the field is secondary to the promotion of team ethic and unity. God only knows what Nichi Pomander's going to make of the place, then.

Prediction: They rise together, and may well fall together. In what's likely to be a closely-fought bottom six, fortune may not be on their side. 18th

ASHTON OLYMPIC

Expected First XI
1. Leo Burgess (KRY), 33, GK
3. Stephen Lorimer (KRY), 29, LB
4. Jonathan Garston (KRY), 31, CB
5. Geno Foster (KRY), 19, CB
2. Matt Tyler (KRY), 27, RB
7. Carl Webb (KRY), 22, LM
6. Tom Mitchell (KRY), 25, CM
11. Jack Planter (KRY), 23, RM
10. James Connor (KRY), 25, HF
9. Keli Babcock (XAN), 22, ST
17. Samuel Robertson (KRY), 21, ST

Nickname: The Bears
Home ground: The Rutian Grounds, cap. 56,066
Rivals: Leston Town, Dereapolis City
Sponsor: GXi (isotonic sports drink)
Manager: Eric Saunders (KRY), age 49
Last season: 5th
Players in: Callaghan Bauldry (Papillo (MRT), ₳750k); Keli Babcock (Hawthorne Kickers (XAN), ₳500k); Abishek Kumar (Algolia (SRS), free)
Players out: Thomas King (Dereapolis City, free)

Originally founded as simply Ashton FC, the club added the Olympic moniker after the city was chosen as host of the VI Winter Games. International recognition and investment in the area followed, and the club rode the wave to build themselves into a contender. Twice O-League champions, Olympic are usually there or thereabouts in the final shake-up. The off-season has brought modest investment, with Bauldry expected to replace Leo Burgess long-term, whilst Babcock is hopefully the last piece in an exciting young front three. Thomas King, meanwhile, should probably avoid the far south-west like the plague after a controversial end-of-contract move to rival club Dereapolis City.

Prediction: Good enough to compete with the big boys, not quite good enough to hang with them for the full season. 6th

AVIDIA UNITED

Expected First XI
1. Gabriel Almada (KRY), 30, GK
3. Oscar Mendoza (KRY), 24, LB
4. Dontell Rockfield (SEM), 21, CB
12. Miguelito Leitão (CBZ), 19, CB
2. Hugh Mallon (KRY), 27, RB
11. Francisco Belgrano (KRY), 31, LM
6. Emmanuel Trevorrow (KOR), 26, CM
10. Esteban Salvador (KRY), 24, CM
7. Pista Benedek (PAS), 23, RM
8. Ryan Costello (KRY), 19, HF
9. Gil Sanchez (KRY), 26, ST

Nickname: The Eagles/United
Home ground: Carstairs Park, cap. 74,305
Rivals: Avidia City, CF Avides
Sponsor: Krytenia Digital Communications (telecoms)
Manager: Angél Santiago (KRY), age 46
Last season: 2nd
Players in: Pista Benedek (CA Paulinthal (PAS), ₳3m); Dontell Rockfield (FC Jansberg (SEM), ₳1.5m); Emmanuel Trevorrow (ASC Arvika (KSK), ₳1m); Miguelito Leitão (CF Daineri (AUD), ₳1m)
Players out: Serge Zampa (Casuals Osteria, ₳750k); René Tapie (CFF Monthuez, ₳300k)

It's hard to believe nowadays, but in the early years of Krytenian professional club football, Avidia United weren't even the big team in the Second City. Back then, they were called AFC Avidia and had become very much associated with the middle-class of the metropolis in contrast with the more working-class Avidia City. A failed rebranding to Avidia Eagles was, thankfully, short-lived, but by this point City's star had begun to fade, and the newly-monikered United pitched themselves as the acceptable alternative to the Mercian giants and their bajillionaire owners. This stance may ring a little hollow now – the club spends big themselves – but at their roots, they're still a club that seems to care about its fans. Their move to Carstairs Park, a ground with both more noise and better fan experience than their old home, is proof positive of this. Now they've got the stadium, they're building a team to match and return to their dominant form of recent seasons.

Prediction: United's transfer dealings make one thing clear; they want that trophy back. I can absolutely see that happening – that said, that's what I predicted last season... 1st

BECKTON SUPERMARINE

Expected First XI
1. Darren Jensen (KRY), 18, GK
3. Hugh Danvers (KRY), 23, LB
5. Mohammed Hadji (KRY), 29, CB
25. Topher Riley (KRY), 18, CB
2. Raphael Jacobs (KRY), 19, RB
11. José Morales (KRY), 24, LM
4. Jay Upton (KRY), 23, CM
15. Idoya Kronotsky (SRS), 18, CM
7. Jules Renard (KRY), 24, RM
10. Patrick McLaggan (KRY), 25, HF
9. Reece Eddington (KRY), 26, ST

Nickname: The Mariners
Home ground: Orange Street, cap. 37,665
Rivals: Casuals Osteria
Sponsor: Ozone (courier service)
Manager: David Gallagher (KRY), age 43
Last season: 13th
Players in: Idoya Kronotsky (Vogsphere United (SRS), free)
Players out: Russell Sparwasser (Dereapolis City, ₳500k)

Once upon a time, Beckton Supermarine were an oddly-named team from a forgotten port city. Then they shocked the nation with a Cinderella cup run and promotion to the top flight. They then defied expectations by not only staying up, but retaining the KFA Cup into the bargain. Beckton have since consolidated, and nowadays are top-flight mainstays with occasional sojourns into the top six. An absolute pain in the backside to play, especially with the current young but hungry side.

Prediction: Beckton have found their level in the middle of the pack, and that's not changing any time soon. 11th

BRADWELL SAINTS

Expected First XI
1. Callum Stafford (KRY), 28, GK
3. Jamie Williams (KRY), 22, LB
4. Eddie Joseph (KRY), 21, CB
5. Robert Gorman (KRY), 28, CB
2. Raphael Jacobs (KRY), 19, RB
11. Cameron Cooper (KRY), 24, LM
8. James Hogan (KRY), 19, CM
7. Jordan Stefanowski (KRY), 27, RM
10. Wayne Dixon (KRY), 21, HF
9. Xander Leckey (NPH), 26, ST
20. Jack Hidalgo (KRY), 17, ST

Nickname: The Saints
Home ground: Abbey Road, cap. 47,260
Rivals: Stanton Town
Sponsor: Vivia (mineral water)
Manager: David Gould (KRY), age 60
Last season: 16th
Players in: Xander Leckey (Chatswood (NPH), free)
Players out: Andrew Backley (Avidia City, ₳120k)

Krytenia is, for the most part, a secular nation; as always, though, there's that one exception. That might explain Saints' origins as an amateur team formed as a recreational side for St Petroc's Church is the south of the city. Though the team has come a long way since then, that original DNA runs through the club, not only through their name, but their colours of green, white, and black. The modern side are the epitome of mid-table - able to produce talent, but not necessarily hold onto it, Saints plough a nice furrow between the big boys and the dogfight for the most part. The last couple of seasons, however, have seen the team sliding towards the bottom three; Saints' response is to take former Ousevale boss David Gould off the unemployment line, and sign a Nepharim striker on a free.

Prediction: Will have enough about them to avoid the drop, but don't have the personnel to make the next step at the moment. Watch Xander Leckey prove me wrong, though. 15th

BROMHAM CITY

Expected First XI
1. Neil Phillips (KRY), 24, GK
3. Martin Long (KRY), 25, LB
4. Ian Sanderson (KRY), 18, CB
5. Sharon Pettinger (TKT), 31, CB
2. Marcus Robson (KRY), 33, RB
11. Cameron Tate (KRY), 26, LM
6. Aaron Wharfedale (KRY), 21, CM
8. Gareth Flowers (KRY), 23, CM
7. Julian Backshaw (KRY), 26, RM
9. Luke Jackson (KRY), 28, ST
10. Sam Billingham (KRY), 25, ST

Nickname: City/The Navies
Home ground: Midland Stadium, cap. 79,256
Rivals: Mercia Bromham
Sponsor: Tickford (automotive)
Manager: Kevin Watson (KRY), age 44
Last season: 10th
Players in: Sharon Pettinger (Viathyn Park AFC (TKT), ₳500k); Aaron Wharfedale (Noton United, ₳700k)
Players out: Nicholas Buchanan (Foxchester Rovers, ₳250k)

Originally the big dogs in Bromham – indeed, the Midland Stadium was used for the Nova Mercia “national” team back when it existed – City were eclipsed with haste once the Swann family got their talons into the city's other team. Perhaps because of this, the club is the more supported one within Bromham itself. Having spent several extended stints in the second tier, City have built a side based on getting the most out of the talent available. It's certainly impressed Ousevale, who poached manager Shaun Downey in the off-season after dumping David Gould like last week's recycling.

Prediction: Losing Downey isn't ideal, but promoting first team coach Kevin Watson to the big chair is probably the right decision. Safely mid-pack. 13th

CALEDON SIMPSON

Expected First XI
1. Adam Leagrave (KRY), 27, GK
3. Samuel Fisscher (KRY), 28, LB
5. Alistair McConnell (KRY), 20, CB
17. Claudio Vantula (MRT), 32, CB
2. Richard McGowan (KRY), 29, RB
11. Callum Lyall (KRY), 22, LM
6. Carson Kenzie (KRY), 22, CM
7. Iain McGowan (KRY), 20, CM
8. Shawn Burns (KRY), 21, RM
9. Callum Croft (KRY), 18, HF
10. Daniel Robson (KRY), 24, ST

Nickname: Caley/The Lions
Home ground: Walton Gardens, cap. 55,208
Rivals: Casuals Osteria, Beckton Supermarine
Sponsor: Metropole Environmental (waste management)
Manager: Samuel Scott (KRY), age 53
Last season: 12th
Players in: Claudio Vantula (KT Itzalovalle (AUD), ₳1m); Daniel Robson (Stanton Town, ₳500k)
Players out: Malcolm James (retired)

Simpson is traditionally the home of Krytenia's ethnically Caledonian community, and this is reflected in the identity and colours of their hometown club. The team is probably most well known for winning the AOCL in the days way, way before the O-League. Nowadays, Caledon are reinventing themselves to attempt to get back to the business end of the table. With their new crest, they certainly look the part, and they'll be hoping Stanton recruit Daniel Robson can hit the ground running along the promising talent of Callum Croft.

Prediction: Caledon have threatened to kick on for a few seasons now, then flattered to deceive. Expect more of the same. 10th

CASUALS OSTERIA

Expected First XI
1. Mark Marosic (KRY), 24, GK
3. Atole Kaplan (KOR), 31, LB
5. Paul Taylor (FVA), 28, CB
6. Serge Zampa (KRY), 19, CB
2. Matthew Santini (KRY), 23, RB
26. Jude Philpott (KRY), 17, LM
7. Ryan Holtz (KRY), 25, CM
19. Theodore Chevalier (KRY), 18, CM
8. Simon Masari (KRY), 29, RM
10. Ryan Archer (KRY), 23, HF
9. Bryan Ainslie (KRY), 24, ST

Nickname: Casuals/The Miners
Home ground: New Coalfields, cap. 71,119
Rivals: Beckton Supermarine
Sponsor: Krytenia Steel (steel production)
Manager: Marcus Frankel (KRY), age 42
Last season: 3rd
Players in: Paul Taylor (AC Izotz Zubia (AUD), ₳5m); Atole Kaplan (AC Izotz Zubia (AUD), ₳1.2m); Serge Zampa (Avidia United, ₳750k)
Players out: Declan Warren (Caversham, ₳250k)

Osteria is a city built on industry, and Casuals are a team built on its workers. Originally an amateur club, the “Casuals” part of the name came from the fact that unlike many other amateur teams of the era, the players didn't have to pay subs. Instead, the local miners' unions administered and subsidised the team, who played on a cleared area of flat ground near to a spoil heap – hence the name Coalfields. As the game became more organised through the country, the club turned professional and joined the nation's first pro league. They soon built a reputation for being a very difficult side to play. Nowadays, the coal mines are almost all closed, the city has moved into steelworking as its backbone, and the team plays in a stadium that's nowhere near massive anthracite tips. In the O-League era, Casuals are most famous for being unpredictable – often following a top-six finish with one in the bottom half, and on one occasion winning the title a season after avoiding relegation on the final day. Thankfully for the fans' health, they seem to have consolidated into an actual contender in recent seasons, and have provided a statement of intent by spending seven million argentals bolstering their defence – the highest spend of any O-League team in the transfer window.

Prediction: Casuals haven't spent that money in vain, and will be hard to beat this season. I've got a feeling that Avidia will just about have the measure of them, though. 2nd

CAVERSHAM

Expected First XI
1. Daniel Schiavo (KRY), 17, GK
3. Phil Ashton (KRY), 20, LB
4. Thomas Tyler (KRY), 27, CB
5. Declan Warren (KRY), 22, CB
2. Lucas Camara (KRY), 21, RB
11. Malcolm Eder (KRY), 18, LM
10. Jonathan Hoyle (KRY), 30, CM
8. Artin Derc (AUP), 28, RM
7. Andrew Karlsson (KRY), 29, HF
19. Cécilien Vanoret (PTR), 21, HF
9. Shaun Langer (KRY), 25, ST

Nickname: The Dragons/Cav
Home ground: Draconium Arena, cap. 66,592
Rivals: Locomotive Wolverton
Sponsor: Sothiski (glassware and crystalware)
Manager: Arthur Jones (KRY), age 51
Last season: 14th
Players in: Artin Derc (Birivistice (AUP), ₳2m); Cécilien Vanoret (Olympique Yvesmont (PTR), ₳2m); Declan Warren (Casuals Osteria, ₳250k); Viola Partas (Megabrantid (SRS), free)
Players out: Amanda Bach (Cardonia FC (CAD), ₳4.6m)

Being the largest club in the state of Sothis sounds like a flex, but if you look on a map you'll notice a lot of rolling hills and farmland. Perhaps it's apt, then, that Caversham themselves are a bit of a farm club. They're good at developing talent, but less good at holding onto it, and have tended to be a bit of a yo-yo club. A recent rebranding, including a new simplified crest and a flip of kit colours from green with orange to orange with green, was hoped to be a statement of intent. Old habits die hard, however, as goalkeeper Amanda Bach left in the last transfer window after an offer from Cardonia that was too good to resist. At least this time they've reinvested the money quite quickly...

Prediction: The sale of Bach means that Cav are placing their trust in young goalkeeper Daniel Schiavo. That, plus their intriguing new signings, make the Dragons a bit of a wild card this season. Let's average that out into mid-table. 12th

CFF MONTHUEZ

Expected First XI
1. Alain Nouble (KRY), 23, GK
2. Serge Milian (KRY), 25, LB
4. Georges Dion (KRY), 18, CB
5. Axel Diallo (KRY), 30, CB
3. André Olivier (KRY), 29, RB
6. Emmanuel Curie (KRY), 21, CM
8. René Tapie (AUP), 22, CM
15. Alexandre Goulin (KRY), 18, CM
11. Charles Clichy (KRY), 20, LW
7. Maurice Coman (KRY), 22, RW
9. Choetrie Denlans (AUP), 26, ST

Nickname: Les Bleus
Home ground: Stade d'Huez, cap. 24,956
Rivals: Stade Valquois
Sponsor: Huez Mode (clothing)
Manager: Bruno Virenque (KRY), age 42
Last season: 2nd, Division One
Players in: Choetrie Denlans (Auprussia NF (AUP), ₳2m); René Tapie (Avidia United, ₳300k)
Players out: none

Remote, unheralded, and proudly doing their own thing. This is the way of Club Francophone de Foot Monthuez. For the club, nestled high up in the biggest city in the Monteste mountains, have always been at the cultural centre of the range's resident Francophone community. For them, it's not so much about the league position as developing fine Gallic talent. One the one hand, their “French speakers only” philosophy does restrict their potential player pool, especially as Monteste is the least populated state in the nation. On the other hand, however, is the culture around the club itself; the locals treat the team as a proxy national side for their community, and as such, the players see donning the maillot bleu as a badge of pride. Perhaps one day, they'll be able to climb out of their current position of being too good for Division One, but not quite good enough for the top flight.

Prediction: Probably the best equipped of the promoted teams; in a competitive division, though, that might not mean all that much. On the bubble. 17th

DEREAPOLIS CITY

Expected First XI
1. Thomas King (KRY), 22, GK
3. Harry Lewis (KRY), 22, LB
4. Quentin Odell (KRY), 22, CB
5. Wayne Jackson (KRY), 24, CB
3. Russell Sparwasser (KRY), 22, RB
11. Liam Smith (KRY), 28, LM
6. Max Swift (KRY), 30, CM
7. Eugene Hunt (SNL), 20, CM
8. Connor Horan (KRY), 27, RM
10. James Philpott (KRY), 28, HF
9. Marcus Snead (KRY), 19, ST

Nickname: Derry
Home ground: The County Ground, cap. 44,181
Rivals: Leston Town, Ashton Olympic
Sponsor: Bell Thomas (travel agent)
Manager: James Hatton (KRY), age 59
Last season: 11th
Players in: Russell Sparwasser (Beckton Supermarine, ₳500k); Eugene Hunt (unattached, free); Thomas King (Ashton Olympic, free)
Players out: none

Dereapolis have an interesting footnote in Krytenian football history; when Nova Mercia decided to form a breakaway league (no, not that one, the first time), it was they rather than expected names like Ousevale, the Bromham clubs, or Notegia, who walked away with the first title. Since then, the side have been mostly famous for being brave enough to have a purple home kit – though deliberately not the same shade as that lot on the other side of the Beck – and being, for a long time, the epitome of Division One mid-table. Having got themselves back into the top flight – at the expense of greatest rival Leston Town, no less – Derry have consolidated and are now building an exciting young team. The addition of the triumvirate of Sparwasser, King, and Hunt is just the latest set of bricks to be installed.

Prediction: Middle of the pack is going to be congested, and Derry's lack of depth could cost them in the long haul. 14th

EMBERTON HIBERNIANS

Expected First XI
13. Leo Pohler (KRY), 17, GK
3. Seán Ó Loaghaire (KRY), 17, LB
5. Rodrigo Lopez (KRY), 24, CB
6. Derek Higgins (KRY), 25, CB
2. Arezu Zubin (SRS), 30, RB
11. Padraig Ó Dubhda (KRY), 19, LM
10. Darragh Gilsenan (KRY), 23, CM
15. Tim Gideon (OCH), 20, CM
8. George Corada (KRY), 21, RM
7. Eoghan Kenney (KRY), 24, HF
9. Graeme Burgess (KRY), 20, ST

Nickname: Hibs
Home ground: Paschal Park, cap. 29,012
Rivals: Emberton Reds, Royal Emberton
Sponsor: Maguire's Sorthern Stout (beer)
Manager: Aiden O'Leary (KRY), age 40
Last season: 9th
Players in: Arezu Zubin (Aspel (EUR), ₳1.2m)
Players out: none

The youngest of Emberton's three top flight sides – and for that matter, the youngest top flight side of the lot – Hibs were originally founded in the aftermath of the destruction of the nation of Sorthern Northland. Hundreds of thousands of refugees managed to escape the nation before its civil war went nuclear, and a large number of them settled in Krytenia, and the capital especially. Emberton Sorthern FC were founded not just as a football club, but also as a force for good for the displaced Sortherners, with gate receipts and merchandise sales. As their former nation receded into the history books, it was decided to change the name to something that referenced the team's roots a bit more generally, and the club is now favoured, not just around Emberton's Sorthern-Irish community, but on a wider scope amongst the many immigrant groups in the capital. The team also still works hard with Emberton's immigrants, funding a number of food banks and community projects to assist the capital's poorest citizens. The fact that they're now established as a potential contender for the IFCF spots is just a bonus.

Prediction: Look for them to give a few title contenders bloody noses; other sides are better equipped for the prime real estate, though. 9th

EMBERTON REDS

Expected First XI
1. Nathan Klingbell (TKT), 28, GK
3. Moisés Negredo (KRY), 25, LB
5. Benjamin Hora (KRY), 23, CB
6. Alexander Solis (KRY), 18, CB
2. Juliano Blanco (KRY), 26, RB
8. Owen Haller (KRY), 26, LM
7. Robert Yates (KRY), 33, CM
17. Remo Herrera (KRY), 17, CM
10. Jesse Garrett (KRY), 26, RM
11. Alexander Madan (KRY), 26, HF
9. Brendan McShane (KRY), 27, ST

Nickname: The Reds
Home ground: Isserson Olympic Stadium, cap. 196,340
Rivals: Emberton Hibernians, Royal Emberton
Sponsor: JMC (sportswear)
Manager: Alistair Schwartzel (KRY), age 51
Last season: 8th
Players in: Nathan Klingbell (Guillarim Blades (EUR), ₳1.5m)
Players out: Deion Hendricks (Secklow, ₳550k)

To say Emberton Reds are an institution would certainly be accurate; it's also wise to remember that word also applies to mental health asylums. The Reds are famous – nay, infamous – for starting a season promisingly, only to throw it away in the space of a scant few weeks. It's often said that you can spot a Reds fan in February by the thousand-yard glassy stare as yet another season disintegrates in front of their eyes. Two things made last season worse than usual, though; first, the fact that they started choking in September, and second, the fact that their most hated rivals lifted the damn trophy. Season VI feels a very long time ago right now.

Prediction: Royals winning the title last season will stick in the craw, and they'll hit the ground running. Then they'll hit the wall. Again. 8th

FOXCHESTER ROVERS

Expected First XI
1. James Bogdanovic (KRY), 25, GK
2. Thomas Keys (KRY), 23, LB
5. Nicholas Buchanan (KRY), 24, CB
6. Terry Mayock (KRY), 26, CB
3. Oliver Angell (KRY), 29, RB
7. Nathan Goode (KRY), 23, LM
4. Jordan Kent (KRY), 27, CM
8. Russell Banks (KRY), 28, RM
9. Michael Morris (KRY), 30, HF
10. Regemaine D'Eberrou (KRY), 23, HF
11. Callum Wilson (KRY), 28, ST

Nickname: The Foxes/Rovers
Home ground: The Unity Stadium at Railyards Park, cap 47,414
Rivals: Ousevale Borough, Ousevale Juniors
Sponsor: Unity Mutual (insurance)
Manager: Nathan Miles (KRY), age 38
Last season: 3rd, Division One
Players in: James Bogdanovic (Oustia, ₳1m); Nicholas Buchanan (Bromham City, ₳200k); Regemaine D'Eberrou (Lorent Arca Academie (AUP), free)
Players out: none

Foxchester, traditionally, has been known as a commuter town to the north of its big brother Ousevale, and for having an identical name to a much larger city in Starblaydia, to the extent that the old joke was that they should just change the team's name to Foxchester No Not That One. The club, for many years, found themselves drifting between the league's second and third tiers, occasionally threatening to get themselves into the top flight only to sink back into the pack within a season or two. Then the creation of Anaia happened, and that Foxchester name suddenly became a badge of honour – even though the identity of which Foxchester the infamous meeting happened is deliberately kept vague. (The joke, meanwhile, simply updated the alternate name to Foxchester Not The Declaration.) Rather than playing on the Anaian theme, however, the club decided to rebrand on the “Foxes” aspect, changing colours from blue to white, orange, and black. It seems to have worked, as under the stewardship of former Caledon Simpson midfielder Tanner MacRobb, the team finally made it to the nosebleeds. Unfortunately, Mercia Bromham were impressed as well, and poached the Audioslavian to manage their team instead.

Prediction: Will probably prop up the table, and enjoy every second. 20th

MERCIA BROMHAM

Expected First XI
1. Tom Simmons (KRY), 22, GK
3. Anastasia Halvorsen (VAL), 22, LB
5. Kevin Jameson (KRY), 26, CB
6. Shaun Dawlish (KRY), 25, CB
2. Justin Darcy (KRY), 27, RB
11. Nathan Chilcott (KRY), 31, LM
4. Jonathan Byrd (KRY), 22, CM
12. Eddie Culverhouse (KRY), 18, CM
8. Phil Matthews (KRY), 25, RM
10. Ben Stewart (KRY), 29, HF
9. Daryl Rivers (KRY), 23, ST

Nickname: Mercia/The Midlanders
Home ground: Cygnus Stadium, cap 105,013
Rivals: Ousevale Borough, Bromham City
Sponsor: Cygnus Corporation (tech hardware/software)
Manager: Tanner MacRobb (AUD), age 48
Last season: 7th
Players in: Anastasia Halvorsen (Wexax United (VAL), ₳3m); Tom Simmons (Leston Town, ₳800k)
Players out: David Pressman (Notegia Rangers, ₳600k)

When Bromham East Green and Mercia Birmwood merged in the early days of Krytenian football, nobody had any clue of the monster they would unleash. Though they did have to play second fiddle to their cross-city rivals for few seasons, they slowly grew to be a local powerhouse, with intent to grow their tendrils yet further. Andrew Swann saw in the club a set of ambitions that matched his own, and added Mercia as a shiny bauble adjacent to his Cygnus tech empire. His descendants have inherited both his eye for business and complete lack of scruples, which might explain why the Midlanders are the most hated team in the country among non-fans. Finishing seventh last season was enough for the side to cut ties with manager Andy Dunn, bringing in firebrand Tanner MacRobb from Foxchester. Sparks will fly.

Prediction: Yes, yes, you have a very nice Tanner MacRobb, and a lovely expensive Vanor. It's going to take more than that to compete, though, Swanns. 7th

NOTEGIA RANGERS

Expected First XI
1. David Pressman (KRY), 24, GK
2. Toby Rowett (KRY), 24, LB
4. Adam Joshua (KRY), 21, CB
5. Roy Connell (KRY), 29, CB
3. Rick Adams (KRY), 27, RB
11. Sam Healey (KRY), 23, LM
6. Randy Wilson (KRY), 26, CM
7. Matt Andreas (KRY), 22, RM
10. Freddie Langham (KRY), 26, HF
9. Jed Scott (KRY), 25, ST
20. Leroy Masters (KRY), 17, ST

Nickname: Rangers
Home ground: Knott Crescent, cap 50,552
Rivals: Mercia Bromham, Bromham City
Sponsor: 13Black.kt (online casino)
Manager: Jonathan Thorneycroft, age 67
Last season: 15th
Players in: David Pressman (Mercia Bromham, ₳600k); Matt Andreas (Norton, ₳300k)
Players out: Anthony King (Sporting Ceneisis (AFT), ₳2.5m); Sammy Sugden (retired)

Notegia Rangers are by far the senior and superior team in the south-eastern city of Tyfield. Oringinally a nomadic side, playing at various venues across County Notegia, the club eventually settled in the suburbs of the county seat, building their Knott Crescent ground and growing to be one of Mercia's first powerhouses. They won the league in the early days of Krytenian professional football; since then, they've been merely average, spending long periods of time either in the bottom half of the Prem or the top half of Division One. Manager Jonathan Thorneycroft is an icon at the club, coming through the academy as a youngster and being a one-club man as a player, coach, and manager.

Prediction: Notegia kept themselves away from the bottom three last season largely by being a thorn in the side of supposedly bigger sides. The top teams will be wise to them this season. Expect squeakier bums. 16th

OUSEVALE BOROUGH

Expected First XI
1. Mark Davis (KRY), 27, GK
3. Danny Raymond (KRY), 24, LB
5. Leon Jones (KRY), 21, CB
18. Julian Sackholme (OCH), 24, CB
15. Charlie Allen (KRY), 19, RB
11. Connor Mitchell (KRY), 26, LM
6. Ethan Bryant (KRY), 28, CM
10. Josh Cochrane (KRY), 30, RM
9. Greg Williams (KRY), 24, HF
17. Richard Birmingham (FVA), 25, ST
20. Dean Moxey (KRY), 21, ST

Nickname: The Tigers/Boro
Home ground: Southern Arena, cap 91,093
Rivals: Mercia Bromham
Sponsor: Chirper (social media)
Manager: Shaun Downey, age 47
Last season: 6th
Players in: Richard Birmingham (Langmere Green Rovers (FVA), ₳5m)
Players out: none

Long-time followers will need no introduction to this lot. Without a doubt, the most successful side in Krytenian football, built on a succession of shrewd (and often expensive) international signings, especially at striker. The likes of Soraya Roshanak, Valrauncion, Drunn Deleks, and Michael Willem are now joined by Flavovespia's Richard Birmingham, who'll be hoping to carve his own name into the Ousevale legend. A lot of this spending is down to the Spencer family, owners of the club, property magnates, and pioneers of Krytenia's social housing programmes. To add to the coffers, the family have even eschewed having the name of one of their property firms on the club's shirts for the first time in years, instead signing a big-money deal with social media network Chirper.

Prediction: Richard Birmingham may have been the biggest signing in the window, but he was also Boro's only one. Could well be on the outside looking in again. 5th

ROYAL EMBERTON

Expected First XI
1. Louis Kendrick (KRY), 27, GK
2. Sahwen Chao (SNL), 26, LB
5. Malcolm Kirsten (KRY), 30, CB
24. Adam Tay (KRY), 17, CB
3. Joel Parrish (KRY), 29, RB
11. Billy Pugh (KRY), 24, LM
4. Evan Izzet (KRY), 27, CM
8. Darren Gabriel (KRY), 22, CM
7. Frici Király (PAS), 23, RM
10. Ewan Jordan (KRY), 24, HF
17. Enrique Garcia (KRY), 18, ST

Nickname: The Royals/Pats
Home ground: Oxley Park, cap 53,882
Rivals: Emberton Reds, Emberton Hibernians
Sponsor: Elmec (electronics)
Manager: Jonas Skarsgaard, age 50
Last season: 1st
Players in: Frici Király (Club Stein-los (PAS), ₳3m); Sahwen Chao (Mazinaw Vanorian (KSK), ₳1.3m)
Players out: Joel Tomassen (Sandwell Rangers, loan)

Usually second in the capital's pecking order, Royal Emberton are probably the only team in the league that needs to know the plural of “identity crisis”. Formed as Everton City Patriots, their first name change was an enforced one due to the renaming of the city itself. The Emberton Patriots name would only last a couple of seasons before the side rebranded as Krytenia Emberton, though the “Pats” nickname has still stuck around. A brief (and again, enforced) name change to Emberton Oxley during the West Starblaydi regime followed until Dominique and Tiberius were told in no uncertain terms to stay down their own end. With home rule – and the monarchy – restored, the club finally settled on their current name. Their form was about as consistent as their name for the longest time; ironically, a change of fortune would come following a rebranding of the one thing that remained constant through all the different names – the badge. The crowned lion and shield was introduced in the lead-up to Season 23, and the club would go on to win that season's title – their first of the O-League era.

Prediction: Royal's biggest problem this season is the massive target on their backs. Winning the title is one thing; retaining it is another entirely. 4th

SECKLOW

Expected First XI
1. Deion Hendricks (KRY), 23, GK
3. Keith Bettini (KRY), 23, LB
5. Marc Siddle (KRY), 19, CB
6. Vladislava Osina (PYA), 19, CB
2. Antosha Korablin (PYA), 19, RB
8. Roger Callaghan (KRY), 21, LM
4. Josh Simcox (KRY), 22, CM
7. Jordan Tillotson (KRY), 23, CM
11. Adam Kimmich (KRY), 20, RM
10. Murray Sampson (KRY), 25, ST
17. Matt Wright (KRY), 18, ST

Nickname: The Hoops
Home ground: The Mound, cap 56,137
Rivals: NSE Kovenham
Sponsor: Spectrum Paints (paint)
Manager: Jack Keane, age 50
Last season: 17th
Players in: Deion Hendricks (Emberton Reds, ₳550k); Antosha Korablin (Pyazhnaya National Academy (PYA), free); Vladislava Osina (Pyazhnaya National Academy (PYA), free)
Players out: none

Krytenia's western states have never been the most productive for top-flight football teams; NSE Kovenham could never quite push even into mid-table, and the last time Aigburth Athletic were relevant, dinosaurs roamed the earth. Secklow, though, are different. True, they've not had the consistency in recent years, but they were a mainstay of the O-League's early seasons before fading, and their iconic red and blue hoops are still recognisable to this day. The current iteration is very much concentrating on building a strong, young core, which explains their signings being two teenage defenders from Pyazhnaya's national academy, and Emberton Reds' second choice stopper.

Prediction: Stayed up by the skin of their teeth last season; luck may well run out this time. 19th

STANTON TOWN

Expected First XI
13. Danté Meaden (KRY), 19, GK
3. Shawn Ford (MRT/EUR), 22, LB
5. Des Edwards (KRY), 32, CB
6. Michael Houseman (KRY), 20, CB
2. Margaret Harlow (MRT), 30, RB
11. Dylan James (KRY), 25, LM
4. Jonathan Aubrey (KRY), 22, CM
8. Zachary Lyons (KRY), 27, CM
7. Cordell Black (KRY), 27, RM
10. Charlie Rice (KRY), 20, HF
9. Reece Klaasen (KRY), 23, ST

Nickname: The Dockers
Home ground: Harbour Stadium, cap 60,662
Rivals: Bradwell Saints
Sponsor: Stanton & Tabeck Ferry Company (shipping)
Manager: Will Rowlands, age 44
Last season: 4th
Players in: Reece Klaasen (Aigburth Athletic, ₳1.5m); Margaret Harlow (Alnio (CMT), ₳1.5m); Shawn Ford (Dannin Caulot (MRT), ₳1.25m)
Players out: Daniel Robson (Caledon Simpson, ₳500k)

Stanton's history is intertwined with that of it's famous football family; the Kennedy dynasty. From Gabriel and Raphael through to Selaphiel, the surname is indelibly linked with the team, and often the fortunes of the Dockers depended largely on whether the guy playing up front had those seven letters on the back of his shirt. Recent years have changed that, though, and investment in the academy and shrewd managers such as Richard Valens and Paul James have borne bumper crops of fruit. They're also not afraid to bring in youngsters from other clubs, a policy that Reece Klaasen is surely quite glad of.

Prediction: Klaasen is a good addition, and the core is maturing nicely. Title isn't out of the question, but I fear they may fall short. 3rd

by **Krytenia** » Fri Oct 13, 2023 4:13 pm

SEASON XXIV - PART ONE

Nobody expected the Gabriel Kennedy trophy to make its way to Oxley Park last season, and now the chase is on to see who – if anyone – can wrest it from them. Ousevale and Mercia have changed things at the top, Avidia and Casuals have spent big, and the Reds will be running on pure spite. At the other end of the table, the neutrals will be hoping Foxchester can punch above their weight, whilst Secklow will be looking to ensure their safety before stoppage time on the last day of the season. Let's get right in to it, then!

MATCHDAY 1
Oxley Park played host to the Champion's Kick Off, with Secklow the visitors, and surely easy meat for the Royals...right?

Well, the champions did get the three points, but the Hoops made them earn each and every one. Eventually, though, teenage striker Enrique Garcia put the dagger in Secklow's hearts four minutes from time to give Royals the win by the odd goal in seven.

Saturday, meanwhile, saw a few of the title contenders put down some serious markers. Stanton made short work of Beckton, a Ryan Archer hat-trick helped Casuals put the Saints to the sword, whilst Emberton Reds gave Foxchester a rather abrupt welcome to the Prem with a four-nil win. That's not to say everyone came out unscathed – Jack Planter's free-kick was the decider for Ashton at Carstairs Park, whilst the new era for Mercia quickly became the new error as Tanner MacRobb's side were dropped to the kerb by his old club.

That brought us on to the first Sunday live game of the season, as the Division One champions travelled to the Southern Arena...and escaped with all three points thanks to substitute Sylvain Cousin nodding home the winner from a corner. At least you're still above Mercia, though, Tigers fans.

Results:
FRIDAY - CHAMPION'S KICK OFF
Royal Emberton 4-3 Secklow

SATURDAY
Avidia United 0-1 Ashton Olympic
Beckton Supermarine 1-4 Stanton Town
Bromham City 0-1 Dereapolis City
Caledon Simpson 2-1 Mercia Bromham
Casuals Osteria 5-1 Bradwell Saints
Caversham 1-1 Emberton Hibernians
Emberton Reds 4-0 Foxchester Rovers
Notegia Rangers 1-1 Adanac City
SUNDAY
Ousevale Borough 2-3 CFF Monthuez

MATCHDAY 2
Foxchester would have absolutely taken being sandwiched between Ousevale and Mercia two games in – but perhaps not like this. To be fair to the Foxes, they were unlucky not to salvage a point at the Unity, but the real surprise is the company they have in the bottom three. Sunday was a dark day for the south's big two, as Mercia were schooled by a determined Avidia United side, before Boro shipped seven(!) in Stanton, a result that also put the Dockers top. Let's just say Reece Klaasen is enjoying his new surroundings.

Elsewhere, the Reds continued their strong start with an easy victory over Dereapolis, Week One leaders Casuals gave up top spot but still secured all three points in Adanac, and Royals, Caledon, and Ashton kept up their 100% records to round out the top six.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 0-1 Casuals Osteria
Ashton Olympic 2-1 Notegia Rangers
Caversham 0-3 Bromham City
CFF Monthuez 0-0 Bradwell Saints
Dereapolis City 0-3 Emberton Reds
Emberton Hibernians 0-1 Royal Emberton
Foxchester Rovers 0-1 Beckton Supermarine
Secklow 0-2 Caledon Simpson
SUNDAY
Mercia Bromham 1-4 Avidia United
Stanton Town 7-2 Ousevale Borough

MATCHDAY 3
Ashton Olympic and Royal Emberton seem to have perfected the art of “doing just enough to win”. Both notched up their third wins of the season, and both have won all three of those games by a single goal. The bad news is that a couple of other sides aren't content with merely that. Monthuez had no answer to Ryan Holtz's string pulling, whilst Sunday's Abbia Mersa derby went the way of a still-rampant Stanton. On the bright side, Bradwell, you conceded three less than Ousevale did last week.

Speaking of Ousevale, nobody was expecting their Sunday afternoon clash to be a battle of the bottom two, but that's the early season weirdness for you. That being said, the Tigers seemed to be incapable of holding onto a lead, as they got their noses in front on three occasions only for the Foxes to peg them back to parity each and every time. Michael Morris' stoppage time equaliser was no less than the visitors deserved, and it lifts them out of the bottom three on goal difference above Ousevale, Bradwell, and a still pointless Secklow.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 0-1 Ashton Olympic
Avidia United 5-1 Secklow
Beckton Supermarine 2-2 Dereapolis City
Caledon Simpson 1-1 Emberton Hibernians
Casuals Osteria 3-1 CFF Monthuez
Emberton Reds 1-1 Caversham
Notegia Rangers 2-4 Mercia Bromham
Royal Emberton 4-3 Bromham City
SUNDAY
Bradwell Saints 2-4 Stanton Town
Ousevale Borough 3-3 Foxchester Rovers

MATCHDAY 4
Tanner MacRobb appears to have given his charges a good old-fashioned Audioslavian kick up the jacksie. After losing their first two, they've now won two in a row, with Ben Stewart and Daryl Rivers both bagging braces against a hapless Adanac. Still looking for a first win, meanwhile, are Ousevale, who could only muster a draw with a doughty Dereapolis side.

Just to add to Ousevale's misery, Foxchester did record a win, dumping the Saints into bottom spot in the process.

Meanwhile, at the top, Casuals sent Ashton's winning run into a screeching halt, whilst Stanton were given a test by a Monthuez side who are unfortunate to only have four points right now. Caledon's win over Bromham lifts them to third, above a Royals side who played out a tetchy one-all draw with their cross-city rivals.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bromham City 1-2 Caledon Simpson
Caversham 2-1 Beckton Supermarine
Dereapolis City 2-2 Ousevale Borough
Emberton Hibernians 0-1 Avidia United
Foxchester Rovers 4-2 Bradwell Saints
Mercia Bromham 4-0 Adanac City
Secklow 1-0 Notegia Rangers
Stanton Town 3-2 CFF Monthuez
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 0-3 Casuals Osteria
Royal Emberton 1-1 Emberton Reds

MATCHDAY 5
The top two met at New Coalfields, with only one thing for certain; something had to give. That something turned out to be Casuals' defence. Klaasen's opener on seventy-four minutes left Osteria chasing the game, and Charlie Rice took advantage late on to seal the three points. Stanton are now being chased not by Casuals, but by Caledon Simpson, who kept up their unbeaten start to the season, and by Royal Emberton, who struggled against Beckton but still took the W courtesy of Frici Király's first goal for the team. With Avidia United making short work of Bromham City, Casuals slip all the way to fifth.

One side that is rising up the table, however, is Ousevale. The Tigers finally decided that yes, they did actually want to win, and made mincemeat out of Caversham to lift themselves all the way up to tenth.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 2-0 Secklow
Avidia United 3-0 Bromham City
Beckton Supermarine 1-2 Royal Emberton
Bradwell Saints 2-0 Dereapolis City
Caledon Simpson 3-1 Emberton Reds
CFF Monthuez 3-1 Foxchester Rovers
Notegia Rangers 1-1 Emberton Hibernians
Ousevale Borough 3-0 Caversham
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 1-2 Mercia Bromham
Casuals Osteria 0-2 Stanton Town

Table after MD5:

Pos Team                     P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Stanton Town             5  5  0  0  20   7  +13  15
  2 Caledon Simpson          5  4  1  0  10   4   +6  13
  3 Royal Emberton           5  4  1  0  12   8   +4  13
  4 Avidia United            5  4  0  1  13   3  +10  12
  5 Casuals Osteria          5  4  0  1  12   4   +8  12
  6 Mercia Bromham           5  3  0  2  12   9   +3   9
  7 Ashton Olympic           5  3  0  2   5   6   -1   9
  8 Emberton Reds            5  2  2  1  10   5   +5   8
  9 CFF Monthuez             5  2  1  2   9   9   +0   7
 10 Ousevale Borough         5  1  2  2  12  15   -3   5
 11 Dereapolis City          5  1  2  2   5   9   -4   5
 12 Caversham                5  1  2  2   4   9   -5   5
 13 Beckton Supermarine      5  1  1  3   6  10   -4   4
 14 Adanac City              5  1  1  3   3   7   -4   4
 15 Foxchester Rovers        5  1  1  3   8  13   -5   4
 16 Bradwell Saints          5  1  1  3   7  13   -6   4
 17 Emberton Hibernians      5  0  3  2   3   5   -2   3
 18 Bromham City             5  1  0  4   7  10   -3   3
 19 Secklow                  5  1  0  4   5  13   -8   3
 20 Notegia Rangers          5  0  2  3   5   9   -4   2

by **Krytenia** » Sat Oct 14, 2023 3:37 pm

SEASON XXIV - PART TWO

MATCHDAY 6
Stanton are yet to drop a point in this campaign, and that's bad news for poor Foxchester. Reece Klaasen filled his boots with four as the Dockers ran riot at the Unity. Any hopes of them creating separation, however, were dashed by both Caledon, who squeaked past Beckton, and the Royals, who continued to pile misery on Ousevale “Somehow Fourteenth” Borough.

Casuals and United, meanwhile, swapped places despite both sides winning, as the former's four-one win over Mercia proved enough to put them above the Eagles on goals scored.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bromham City 0-1 Notegia Rangers
Caledon Simpson 2-1 Beckton Supermarine
Caversham 1-1 Bradwell Saints
Dereapolis City 2-1 CFF Monthuez
Emberton Hibernians 1-0 Adanac City
Foxchester Rovers 1-6 Stanton Town
Royal Emberton 2-0 Ousevale Borough
Secklow 0-4 Ashton Olympic
SUNDAY
Emberton Reds 1-2 Avidia United
Mercia Bromham 1-4 Casuals Osteria

KFA CUP - ROUND ONE
Remember Oustia? A couple of seasons ago, they were competing with the big boys in the Prem. Now, they're slumming it in Division Two and getting knocked out of the cup to the never-relevant Lakefield Dynamo. Avidia City, meanwhile, were beaten for the spot by Wroxham, whilst the three relegated teams from last season all survived to gain a chance to get some revenge on the top-flight sides.

MATCHDAY 7
Ousevale's season is already looking miserable as Shaun Downey's charges lost for the fourth time this season. This time, it's Stanton reject Daniel Robson doing the damage, scoring the only goal as Caledon keep up their title chase.

Stanton, meanwhile, remained unbowed after labouring to a two-one win over Dereapolis.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 0-2 Bromham City
Ashton Olympic 1-1 Emberton Hibernians
Avidia United 2-0 Beckton Supermarine
Bradwell Saints 0-4 Royal Emberton
Casuals Osteria 3-0 Foxchester Rovers
CFF Monthuez 0-2 Caversham
Mercia Bromham 0-0 Secklow
Notegia Rangers 0-3 Emberton Reds
SUNDAY
Ousevale Borough 0-1 Caledon Simpson
Stanton Town 2-1 Dereapolis City

MATCHDAY 8
It's as you were for the top five, with Avidia United the latest team to heap misery on an Ousevale side skirting dangerously close to the relegation zone. Caledon were made to work for their win as Bradwell, despite only having won once this season so far, refusing to lie down and die at Walton Gardens, whilst Secklow gave Casuals a scare at The Mound. Stanton, meanwhile, are eight for eight after a comfortable victory in Caversham.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 1-0 Notegia Rangers
Caledon Simpson 4-3 Bradwell Saints
Caversham 0-2 Stanton Town
Dereapolis City 2-0 Foxchester Rovers
Emberton Hibernians 1-1 Mercia Bromham
Emberton Reds 2-0 Adanac City
Royal Emberton 1-0 CFF Monthuez
Secklow 2-3 Casuals Osteria
SUNDAY
Avidia United 3-1 Ousevale Borough
Bromham City 0-2 Ashton Olympic

MATCHDAY 9
Well, would you look at that – Stanton are human after all. A hard-fought one-all draw with Royal Emberton means they drop point for the first time this season; both sides' unbeaten records, though, remain intact. It also gives the chasing pack a chance to close the gap, which Casuals and Avidia absolutely do; less so for Caledon, though, as they were shot down by a Monthuez side looking more than comfortable at this level.

For the Mercian “giants”, meanwhile, it was a weekend to forget, as Sam Billingham's winner secured bragging rights for City in the Bromham derby, whilst a comical own goal by Chris Jackson just about sums up Boro's first nine games. Only goal difference is keeping Ousevale out of the drop zone now.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 0-3 Beckton Supermarine
Ashton Olympic 2-1 Emberton Reds
Bradwell Saints 0-1 Avidia United
Casuals Osteria 4-1 Dereapolis City
CFF Monthuez 4-2 Caledon Simpson
Foxchester Rovers 1-1 Caversham
Notegia Rangers 4-2 Ousevale Borough
Secklow 2-0 Emberton Hibernians
SUNDAY
Mercia Bromham 2-3 Bromham City
Stanton Town 1-1 Royal Emberton

MATCHDAY 10
Caledon Simpson may have had a setback to their chase of the leaders last week, but they'll be damned if they're letting Stanton have it all their own way. A two-nil win shatters the erstwhile leaders' unbeaten run, and it's good news for the reigning champions, too, as a Darren Gabriel led demolition of Foxchester pulls them a point ahead of the Dockers. Neither side end the weekend top, though, as Casuals rip into Hibs to go a point clear of a congested pack.

Adanac City, meanwhile, may be a little disappointed to only muster a point against one of their relegation rivals. There again, said rivals are Ousevale and the dropped points mean they're now in the bottom three. Shaun Downey's seat isn't hot right now, it's molten.

Results:
SATURDAY
Emberton Hibernians 1-4 Casuals Osteria
Caversham 1-1 Dereapolis City
Bromham City 2-0 Secklow
Royal Emberton 6-1 Foxchester Rovers
Beckton Supermarine 1-1 Ashton Olympic
Avidia United 1-1 CFF Monthuez
Ousevale Borough 2-2 Adanac City
Notegia Rangers 0-1 Bradwell Saints
SUNDAY
Caledon Simpson 2-0 Stanton Town
Emberton Reds 1-1 Mercia Bromham

MATCHDAY 11
Caversham may be famous for glass, but it's shattering Casuals' lead that they concentrated on this week. Late goals from Shaun Langer and Artin Derc rescued a point against the leaders, allowing the chasing pack a chance to topple the Miners.

Stanton and Avidia, though, battered each other into a goalless draw, allowing Caledon Simpson to draw level with Casuals thanks to a routine win over Foxchester, who stay bottom. They're still only two points from safety, though, and still only one behind Ousevale, whose serving of pain this week was delivered by an Ashton side desperately trying to keep pace with the top five.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 0-1 Bradwell Saints
Casuals Osteria 2-2 Caversham
CFF Monthuez 2-0 Notegia Rangers
Dereapolis City 2-1 Royal Emberton
Emberton Hibernians 0-0 Bromham City
Foxchester Rovers 1-3 Caledon Simpson
Mercia Bromham 1-0 Beckton Supermarine
Secklow 0-1 Emberton Reds
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 4-3 Ousevale Borough
Stanton Town 0-0 Avidia United

MATCHDAY 12
With Ousevale struggling like nobody's business, surely the first Mercian Classic of the season is in the bag for the men from Bromham...right?

Well, no, because of course this is the week that the Tigers remember to play football, and absolutely troll their great rivals four-one.

At the top, meanwhile, Casuals have little trouble against the other lot from Bromham, Caledon stay second after a tricky win at home to Dereapolis, and Avidia pile a fresh heap of misery against a spirited but outclassed Foxes side.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 0-0 CFF Monthuez
Avidia United 6-0 Foxchester Rovers
Beckton Supermarine 0-1 Secklow
Bradwell Saints 2-2 Ashton Olympic
Bromham City 1-5 Casuals Osteria
Caledon Simpson 1-0 Dereapolis City
Notegia Rangers 1-2 Stanton Town
Royal Emberton 0-2 Caversham
SUNDAY
Emberton Reds 1-4 Emberton Hibernians
Ousevale Borough 4-1 Mercia Bromham

Table after MD12:

Pos Team                      P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Casuals Osteria          12 10  1  1  37  12  +25  31
  2 Caledon Simpson          12 10  1  1  25  13  +12  31
  3 Avidia United            12  9  2  1  28   6  +22  29
  4 Stanton Town             12  9  2  1  33  13  +20  29
  5 Royal Emberton           12  8  2  2  27  14  +13  26
  6 Ashton Olympic           12  7  3  2  21  14   +7  24
  7 Emberton Reds            12  5  3  4  20  14   +6  18
  8 CFF Monthuez             12  4  3  5  17  17   +0  15
  9 Mercia Bromham           12  4  3  5  19  22   -3  15
 10 Caversham                12  3  6  3  13  16   -3  15
 11 Dereapolis City          12  4  3  5  14  19   -5  15
 12 Bromham City             12  4  1  7  15  20   -5  13
 13 Emberton Hibernians      12  2  6  4  11  14   -3  12
 14 Bradwell Saints          12  3  3  6  15  25  -10  12
 15 Beckton Supermarine      12  3  2  7  12  17   -5  11
 16 Secklow                  12  3  1  8  10  23  -13  10
 17 Ousevale Borough         12  2  3  7  24  32   -8   9
 18 Notegia Rangers          12  2  2  8  11  20   -9   8
 19 Adanac City              12  1  3  8   5  18  -13   6
 20 Foxchester Rovers        12  1  2  9  12  40  -28   5

by **Krytenia** » Tue Oct 17, 2023 4:48 pm

SEASON XXIV - PART THREE

KFA CUP - ROUND TWO
With the big fish entering the scene, it's inevitable that someone manages a giant-killing, right?

A couple of someones, in fact. Secklow, currently in the bottom six, were at least beaten by a Neathill side that where in the top flight last season. Notegia, on the other hand, can have no excuses for drawing a blank against Catton “Who Dey?” Regis.

True, they weren't the only Prem side to fall, but the others at least had the dignity to be downed by their peers. OK, so Hibs were embarrassed by Ashton, and Caversham were downed by bottom-dwellers Foxchester, but at least Caledon took their game against Derry to extra time.

Also, holy crap on a cracker Bletcham, what did the Shrews ever do to you?

MATCHDAY 13
Now would you look at that, the Mercians have actually remembered how to play football! Mercia's absolute spanking of Bradwell may not be quite as bad as the ten they put past Cav on the final day of last season, but it'll do. Ousevale, meanwhile, pick up only their third victory of the season as a Richard Birmingham brace inspires the Tigers to a win over Secklow.

Stanton, meanwhile, lose ground on the leaders after a dull nil-nil draw. At home. To Adanac. Oof.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 1-1 CFF Monthuez
Bromham City 1-1 Emberton Reds
Caversham 1-2 Caledon Simpson
Dereapolis City 0-1 Avidia United
Emberton Hibernians 3-2 Beckton Supermarine
Mercia Bromham 8-1 Bradwell Saints
Secklow 2-4 Ousevale Borough
Stanton Town 0-0 Adanac City
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 5-2 Royal Emberton
Foxchester Rovers 1-1 Notegia Rangers

MATCHDAY 14
There's separation at the top at last, and it's all down to the capital. The Reds couldn't stem the blue and amber tide at home to Casuals on the Saturday; on the Sunday, the reigning champion Royals showed the league why the ribbons on the Gabe Kennedy are wine and navy, proving too much for Caledon. Avidia United have no problem with this either, as Dontell Rockfield's bullet header secured three points and second place for the Eagles.

As for Emberton's other team? Giving Ousevale two wins on the trot for the first time this season. Shaun Downey gets to breathe easy for another week.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 2-2 Foxchester Rovers
Avidia United 3-2 Caversham
Beckton Supermarine 1-0 Bromham City
Bradwell Saints 0-4 Secklow
CFF Monthuez 4-1 Mercia Bromham
Emberton Reds 1-2 Casuals Osteria
Notegia Rangers 1-3 Dereapolis City
Ousevale Borough 2-1 Emberton Hibernians
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 2-1 Stanton Town
Caledon Simpson 1-3 Royal Emberton

MATCHDAY 15
So much for Casuals breaking into a lead. A sublime thirty-yarder from Callum Croft proved the only goal of the game for Caledon, and the lead is gone. Not only that, but Avidia missed the chance to go top as well, being held at Oxley Park as they slip to third, albeit only one point off top spot.

Elsewhere, Ousevale's recovery continued with a win over Bromham City, Stanton lost ground on the leaders courtesy of Mercia, and Hibs took their loss to the Tigers last week personally, which meant Bradwell got their arses handed to them for the second time in three weeks. How are Saints not in the relegation zone?

Oh, and Foxchester beat Ashton to lift themselves off bottom spot. Baby steps, Foxes.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bromham City 1-3 Ousevale Borough
Caversham 1-0 Notegia Rangers
Dereapolis City 0-1 Adanac City
Emberton Hibernians 7-0 Bradwell Saints
Emberton Reds 2-0 Beckton Supermarine
Foxchester Rovers 4-2 Ashton Olympic
Royal Emberton 2-2 Avidia United
Secklow 0-2 CFF Monthuez
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 0-1 Caledon Simpson
Mercia Bromham 4-2 Stanton Town

MATCHDAY 16
Caledon just can't catch a break. A week after beating Casuals, they're downed by the Eagles and find themselves back in third again. The Miners retain top spot, though, after a routine win over Beckton.

At the bottom, Foxchester's effort warranted a point against Mercia Bromham; sadly, Ben Stewart had other ideas, and his goal proved the difference. The Foxes are now joined in the bottom three by Bradwell, who actually conspired to not lose to Bromham; Adanac leapfrogged them, though, with a hard-fought win over Caversham.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 1-0 Caversham
Ashton Olympic 2-0 Dereapolis City
Beckton Supermarine 0-2 Casuals Osteria
Bradwell Saints 1-1 Bromham City
CFF Monthuez 4-0 Emberton Hibernians
Notegia Rangers 1-3 Royal Emberton
Ousevale Borough 0-0 Emberton Reds
Stanton Town 2-0 Secklow
SUNDAY
Avidia United 3-2 Caledon Simpson
Mercia Bromham 1-0 Foxchester Rovers

MATCHDAY 17
The triangle at the top is completed with a win for Casuals, as they get the better of Avidia. The Eagles as a result fall to third, courtesy of another Callum Croft winner for Caledon – this time against Notegia.

Mercia, meanwhile, may be a country mile off top spot, but they'll be damned if they're going to show anyone any mercy. Dereapolis are the latest victims of their righteous anger.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 0-2 Ousevale Borough
Bromham City 2-0 CFF Monthuez
Caledon Simpson 1-0 Notegia Rangers
Caversham 1-2 Ashton Olympic
Dereapolis City 3-7 Mercia Bromham
Emberton Hibernians 0-0 Stanton Town
Royal Emberton 2-1 Adanac City
Secklow 2-0 Foxchester Rovers
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 2-1 Avidia United
Emberton Reds 1-3 Bradwell Saints

MATCHDAY 18
Avidia, if you're serious about title number seven, you need to stop losing to sides like, oh, I don't know, bottom side Notegia Rangers.

Actually, that's a little unfair on Rangers, as this win, combined with Foxchester narrowly losing to Hibs, means they're not the bottom side any more.

At the top, Casuals breezed past Ousevale, Caledon eventually got over the line in Adanac, and the gap remains at three points.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 0-1 Caledon Simpson
Bradwell Saints 2-0 Beckton Supermarine
CFF Monthuez 1-2 Emberton Reds
Foxchester Rovers 1-2 Emberton Hibernians
Mercia Bromham 0-2 Caversham
Notegia Rangers 3-1 Avidia United
Secklow 2-0 Dereapolis City
Stanton Town 0-2 Bromham City
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 2-2 Royal Emberton
Ousevale Borough 0-2 Casuals Osteria

KFA CUP - ROUND THREE
The minefield lies silent in Round Three, as all the Premier Division teams pitched against lower-ranked opposition safely made it to the last sixteen. Admittedly, Stanton and Ousevale made hard work of it, and Monthuez needed an additional half-hour against Ilham and Welford, but on the other hand even Foxchester managed to get through.

Locomotive Wolverton and St Peters are left to fly the flag for “Not The Prem”, then, with the former beating fellow top flight old boys NSE Kovenham and the latter beating the other Ousevale side.

MATCHDAY 19
Avidia, we take back what we said. Apparently, Notegia are just doing that “beat the title contenders” thing they were so fond of last season again. This time, it's Casuals drowning in a sea of red. Caledon's win over Ashton means their lead is now solely goal difference, whilst Avidia and the Royals continue to keep pace and lie in wait.

The result also lifts Rangers to eighteenth, two points behind Beckton, who've been quietly tumbling into the abyss over the last few weeks. Be afraid, Mariners.

Results:
SATURDAY
Avidia United 4-1 Adanac City
Beckton Supermarine 1-0 CFF Monthuez
Bromham City 2-0 Foxchester Rovers
Caledon Simpson 1-0 Ashton Olympic
Caversham 2-0 Secklow
Emberton Hibernians 3-3 Dereapolis City
Emberton Reds 2-1 Stanton Town
Ousevale Borough 3-1 Bradwell Saints
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 0-1 Notegia Rangers
Royal Emberton 2-1 Mercia Bromham

Table after MD19:

Pos Team                      P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Casuals Osteria          19  15  1   3  50  18  +32  46
  2 Caledon Simpson          19  15  1   3  34  20  +14  46
  3 Avidia United            19  13  3   3  43  18  +25  42
  4 Royal Emberton           19  12  4   3  43  27  +16  40
  5 Ashton Olympic           19  10  5   4  32  24   +8  35
  6 Stanton Town             19  10  4   5  39  23  +16  34
  7 Emberton Reds            19   8  5   6  29  22   +7  29
  8 Mercia Bromham           19   8  3   8  41  36   +5  27
  9 CFF Monthuez             19   7  4   8  29  24   +5  25
 10 Ousevale Borough         19   7  4   8  38  39   -1  25
 11 Bromham City             19   7  3   9  24  26   -2  24
 12 Caversham                19   6  6   7  22  24   -2  24
 13 Emberton Hibernians      19   5  8   6  27  26   +1  23
 14 Dereapolis City          19   5  4  10  23  36  -13  19
 15 Secklow                  19   6  1  12  20  33  -13  19
 16 Bradwell Saints          19   5  4  10  23  49  -26  19
 17 Beckton Supermarine      19   5  2  12  16  28  -12  17
 18 Notegia Rangers          19   4  3  12  18  30  -12  15
 19 Adanac City              19   3  5  11  11  27  -16  14
 20 Foxchester Rovers        19   2  4  13  20  52  -32  10

by **Krytenia** » Wed Oct 18, 2023 3:07 am

SEASON XXIV - PART FOUR

MATCHDAY 20
United, United, United. Just when it looks like the Eagles are ready to fly, someone comes along and clips their wings. This time, it's Ashton – by way of Xanneria, as Keli Babcock bagged a brace in their three-nil win. It means that Avidia lose third spot, too, courtesy of the Royals doing the job at The Mound.

Still nothing to choose at the top as Casuals and Caledon both wins; the Lions' victory also means that, despite their rivals' disastrous start to the season, Mercia drop below Ousevale in the table for the first time this season after the Tigers' avalanche of goals in mountainous Monthuez.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 1-1 Notegia Rangers
Bradwell Saints 0-2 Casuals Osteria
CFF Monthuez 1-6 Ousevale Borough
Dereapolis City 1-2 Bromham City
Emberton Hibernians 0-3 Caversham
Foxchester Rovers 1-3 Emberton Reds
Secklow 1-3 Royal Emberton
Stanton Town 2-2 Beckton Supermarine
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 3-0 Avidia United
Mercia Bromham 0-1 Caledon Simpson

MATCHDAY 21
Back on Matchday Two, Mercia and Ousevale lost by a combined score of 11-3. The return fixtures proved similarly miserable; this time producing the same eleven goals against with only one scored. Even then, that was a late consolation from Ethan Bryant on Ousevale's six-one reverse at the hands of Stanton.

The pair have now been overtaken by Caversham(!) in the table, and Damocles is sitting in the back waiting to see which sword drops first.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 2-0 Foxchester Rovers
Bradwell Saints 4-2 CFF Monthuez
Bromham City 0-1 Caversham
Caledon Simpson 2-0 Secklow
Casuals Osteria 2-0 Adanac City
Emberton Reds 1-2 Dereapolis City
Notegia Rangers 2-2 Ashton Olympic
Royal Emberton 4-1 Emberton Hibernians
SUNDAY
Avidia United 5-0 Mercia Bromham
Ousevale Borough 1-6 Stanton Town

MATCHDAY 22
Romance aside, Foxchester are almost certainly going down. Despite this, they'll be damned if they're going to let their local rivals lord it over them this season. Their meeting at the Southern Arena was an entertaining three-all draw; at the Unity, they went even better in a pulsating encounter that saw the Foxes victorious by the odd goal in nine. Callum Wilson, who scored the winner, will not be paying for drinks in the town for a while.

Elsewhere, the top two retain parity with wins, Royal Emberton are still chasing hard, and Bradwell continue to leak goals like a broken pipe. Also Caversham are, somehow, seventh.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 1-0 Adanac City
Bromham City 1-2 Royal Emberton
CFF Monthuez 0-1 Casuals Osteria
Dereapolis City 1-0 Beckton Supermarine
Emberton Hibernians 1-2 Caledon Simpson
Secklow 1-3 Avidia United
Stanton Town 6-0 Bradwell Saints
Mercia Bromham 0-0 Notegia Rangers
SUNDAY
Caversham 2-0 Emberton Reds
Foxchester Rovers 5-4 Ousevale Borough

MATCHDAY 23
Caledon Simpson are top of the league. I repeat, Caledon Simpson are top of the league.

This is not a drill.

You know what was a drill? Jack Planter's drive from distance that beat Mark Marosic all ends up and secured the points for Ashton against the erstwhile leaders.

Also, Foxchester appear to have been offended by that “probably going down” remark and took it out on the division's resident punching bag, Bradwell.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 1-2 Mercia Bromham
Avidia United 4-0 Emberton Hibernians
Beckton Supermarine 1-2 Caversham
Bradwell Saints 0-2 Foxchester Rovers
Caledon Simpson 2-0 Bromham City
CFF Monthuez 1-4 Stanton Town
Notegia Rangers 0-2 Secklow
Ousevale Borough 4-2 Dereapolis City
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 1-2 Ashton Olympic
Emberton Reds 1-1 Royal Emberton

MATCHDAY 24
Casuals Osteria have decided, it seems, to impersonate the Reds. The choke job is real, as Stanton schooled them at the Harbour Stadium; meanwhile the actual Reds helped to expand Caledon's lead at the top to six by, well, being the Reds and going down three-nil.

At the bottom, meanwhile, Foxhester have now won three in a row and are just three points from safety. They couldn't, could they?

Results:
SATURDAY
Bromham City 0-1 Avidia United
Caversham 0-1 Ousevale Borough
Dereapolis City 2-1 Bradwell Saints
Emberton Hibernians 0-0 Notegia Rangers
Foxchester Rovers 2-0 CFF Monthuez
Mercia Bromham 3-2 Ashton Olympic
Royal Emberton 1-2 Beckton Supermarine
Secklow 2-0 Adanac City
SUNDAY
Emberton Reds 0-3 Caledon Simpson
Stanton Town 3-0 Casuals Osteria

KFA CUP - ROUND FOUR
Looks like we missed a minnow in our last review. Kallia United made sure not to be forgotten this time, though, dumping Bradwell out of the competition. At least the Saints can rest easy knowing the cup isn't going to their great rivals either, with Stanton beaten in extra time by the Royals, who'll be joined by their rivals thanks to the Reds' win over Casuals.

Elsewhere, Mercia limped over the line against Foxchester, Ousevale and Ashton eased past lower division opposition, Monthuez were the third side squeaking through after an additional thirty minutes, and Avidia United edged out cup specialists Beckton.

Ousevale Borough 2-0 Locomotive Wolverton
Beckton Supermarine 1-2 Avidia United
CFF Monthuez 1-1 Adanac City (2-1 AET)
Ashton Olympic 2-0 St Peters
Kallia United 2-0 Bradwell Saints
Casuals Osteria 1-1 Emberton Reds (1-2 AET)
Stanton Town 1-1 Royal Emberton (1-2 AET)
Mercia Bromham 1-0 Foxchester Rovers

MATCHDAY 25
With Caledon dropping points to rivals Beckton on the Saturday, Casuals were in no mood to let a chance to close the gap slip away. Good job, then, that this isn't the Mercia Bromham side of old, as the Midlanders meekly succumbed to the onslaught of blue and amber. Avidia stay third after a similarly ruthless performance against the Reds, with Royals still hanging on to their coat-tails after winning at the Southern Arena.

At the bottom, Foxchester's run was ended as Stanton proved a bridge too far; the Dockers were made to work for it though, and there's no shame in a narrow one-nil loss at the Harbour.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 0-3 Emberton Hibernians
Ashton Olympic 1-1 Secklow
Beckton Supermarine 2-2 Caledon Simpson
Bradwell Saints 0-4 Caversham
CFF Monthuez 3-1 Dereapolis City
Notegia Rangers 0-0 Bromham City
Ousevale Borough 1-3 Royal Emberton
Stanton Town 1-0 Foxchester Rovers
SUNDAY
Avidia United 4-0 Emberton Reds
Casuals Osteria 4-1 Mercia Bromham

MATCHDAY 26
With the top four in a holding pattern, it's time to look at the relegation dogfight.

Adanac sit rooted to bottom spot with only three wins all season, with Bromham the latest recipient of three points from the team from the far north. Foxchester, too, are still in the mire, though they can be forgiven this week due to their loss being at the hands of second-placed Casuals.

Above them, though? Notegia hauled themselves out of the relegation zone with a win over the Reds in the capital, dropping Bradwell back into the bottom three as a result. Beckton, too, are looking precarious after defeat to Avidia, whilst Secklow's five-one tonking at the hands of Mercia means they're looking over their shoulders as well.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 0-1 Avidia United
Bromham City 1-0 Adanac City
Caversham 1-0 CFF Monthuez
Dereapolis City 1-4 Stanton Town
Emberton Hibernians 2-1 Ashton Olympic
Emberton Reds 1-2 Notegia Rangers
Royal Emberton 5-0 Bradwell Saints
Secklow 1-5 Mercia Bromham
SUNDAY
Caledon Simpson 2-1 Ousevale Borough
Foxchester Rovers 0-2 Casuals Osteria

Table after MD26:

Pos Team                      P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Caledon Simpson          26  21  2   3  48  24  +24  65
  2 Casuals Osteria          26  20  1   5  62  24  +38  61
  3 Avidia United            26  19  3   4  61  22  +39  60
  4 Royal Emberton           26  17  5   4  62  34  +28  56
  5 Stanton Town             26  16  5   5  65  28  +37  53
  6 Ashton Olympic           26  13  7   6  44  33  +11  46
  7 Caversham                26  12  6   8  35  26   +9  42
  8 Mercia Bromham           26  11  4  11  52  50   +2  37
  9 Ousevale Borough         26  10  4  12  56  58   -2  34
 10 Emberton Reds            26   9  6  11  35  37   -2  33
 11 Bromham City             26   9  4  13  28  33   -5  31
 12 Emberton Hibernians      26   7  9  10  34  40   -6  30
 13 CFF Monthuez             26   8  4  14  36  43   -7  28
 14 Dereapolis City          26   8  4  14  33  51  -18  28
 15 Secklow                  26   8  2  16  28  47  -19  26
 16 Beckton Supermarine      26   7  4  15  25  37  -12  25
 17 Notegia Rangers          26   5  8  13  23  36  -13  23
 18 Bradwell Saints          26   6  4  16  28  72  -44  22
 19 Foxchester Rovers        26   5  4  17  30  64  -34  19
 20 Adanac City              26   3  6  17  13  39  -26  15

by **Krytenia** » Wed Oct 18, 2023 4:15 am

SEASON XXIV - PART FIVE

MATCHDAY 27
The title race might well be down to two teams now, and it's all thanks to Ousevale. The Tigers may not be having the greatest of seasons, but their win over Avidia means the Eagles are now a massive eight points off top spot. Caledon's win was almost a given due to their opponents being, well, Bradwell, and with Casuals labouring to victory over Secklow, those two now look to be deciding top spot between them.

Speaking of Bradwell, they're down to nineteenth largely down to their abysmal goal difference, especially with Foxchester defeating Dereapolis to leave themselves just two points from safety.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 1-2 Emberton Reds
Ashton Olympic 2-2 Bromham City
Bradwell Saints 0-4 Caledon Simpson
Casuals Osteria 1-0 Secklow
CFF Monthuez 2-0 Royal Emberton
Foxchester Rovers 2-0 Dereapolis City
Mercia Bromham 2-4 Emberton Hibernians
Notegia Rangers 0-0 Beckton Supermarine
SUNDAY
Ousevale Borough 3-1 Avidia United
Stanton Town 2-0 Caversham

MATCHDAY 28
So, apparently, nobody wants to win the title. Leaders Caledon drew a blank against Monthuez, but still extended their lead to five points as Casuals up and lost at the County Ground. Avidia dropped points to Bradwell(!) as they failed to take advantage, and though Stanton defeated the Royals, they're still ten points off the Lions.

Speaking of ten points, that's now the distance between Adanac and salvation after being put to the sword by Beckton.

Results:
SATURDAY
Avidia United 1-1 Bradwell Saints
Beckton Supermarine 3-0 Adanac City
Bromham City 1-2 Mercia Bromham
Caledon Simpson 0-0 CFF Monthuez
Caversham 1-1 Foxchester Rovers
Dereapolis City 1-0 Casuals Osteria
Emberton Hibernians 0-0 Secklow
Emberton Reds 1-3 Ashton Olympic
SUNDAY
Ousevale Borough 1-1 Notegia Rangers
Royal Emberton 1-2 Stanton Town

MATCHDAY 29
Stanton may not be winning the title this season, but they've still got a Challengers' Cup spot to play for. And if that means putting a spanner in the works for the league leaders, all the better. Zachary Lyons pulled the strings in midfield as the Dockers overcame Caledon two-one. Casuals, fresh from a win against Hibs, are laughing all the way to the bank.

At the bottom, meanwhile, the six-pointer between Notegia and Bradwell was a no-contest as the Saints drop deeper into the void.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 1-2 Ousevale Borough
Ashton Olympic 2-1 Beckton Supermarine
Casuals Osteria 3-1 Emberton Hibernians
CFF Monthuez 2-5 Avidia United
Dereapolis City 2-1 Caversham
Foxchester Rovers 3-3 Royal Emberton
Mercia Bromham 2-1 Emberton Reds
Secklow 3-3 Bromham City
SUNDAY
Bradwell Saints 0-3 Notegia Rangers
Stanton Town 2-1 Caledon Simpson

MATCHDAY 30
Oh Foxchester, what did you just do?

Casuals' win over Caversham on Saturday put the pressure on Caledon for Sunday's game against the Foxes. Trouble is, the visitors can see the chink of light that is potential survival, and they are scrapping for every point they can. They fully deserved their draw – though they could have done with Bradwell dropping points against bottom side Adanac – and as a result, the Lions surrendered top spot back to the Miners.

Both sides, meanwhile, will be happy that Avidia and Stanton cancelled each other out at Carstairs Park.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 0-1 Mercia Bromham
Bradwell Saints 2-0 Adanac City
Bromham City 1-2 Emberton Hibernians
Caversham 0-1 Casuals Osteria
Emberton Reds 0-0 Secklow
Notegia Rangers 0-3 CFF Monthuez
Ousevale Borough 3-0 Ashton Olympic
Royal Emberton 3-2 Dereapolis City
SUNDAY
Caledon Simpson 2-2 Foxchester Rovers
Avidia United 1-1 Stanton Town

KFA CUP - QUARTER-FINALS
Kallia United, you absolute ballers.

The side may be concentrating more on getting themselves into the Prem, but what use is getting there if you can't beat the established teams. True it was on penalties, but a scalp is a scalp. Sorry, Ashton.

Speaking of penalties, that's what it took – and sudden death, at that – to find a winner in the Mercian Classic, with the final four completed by the two remaining Emberton sides, with Reds brushing aside Monthuez, and Royals eliminating Avidia.

Kallia United 1-1 Ashton Olympic (1-1 AET, 4-2 PKs)
Ousevale Borough 0-0 Mercia Bromham (1-1 AET, 5-6 PKs)
Emberton Reds 3-0 CFF Monthuez
Avidia United 0-2 Royal Emberton

MATCHDAY 31
So much for the two-horse race; here come Avidia, riding up the rails!

With Caledon downed in the south-west, and Casuals beaten by Bromham City, Avidia shrugged, knuckled down, and made sure of the points against Foxchester. They're now just two points off the lead.

Elsewhere, just days after their KFA Cup marathon, Ousevale and Mercia duked it out again in the Mercian Classic; bragging rights this time went to the Tigers.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 3-0 Bradwell Saints
Caversham 1-3 Royal Emberton
CFF Monthuez 1-1 Adanac City
Dereapolis City 1-0 Caledon Simpson
Emberton Hibernians 2-0 Emberton Reds
Foxchester Rovers 1-3 Avidia United
Secklow 1-3 Beckton Supermarine
Stanton Town 0-1 Notegia Rangers
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 0-1 Bromham City
Mercia Bromham 1-3 Ousevale Borough

MATCHDAY 32
The results of the KFA Cup semis mean that even if Stanton claim fourth spot, it won't get them into the Challengers' Cup. That is, however, no excuse for them to lose to the somehow not quite mathematically down Adanac City. Malcolm Clay will take his winning goal, though. In other news at the wrong end, Foxchester beat Notegia, Secklow rescued a point against Ousevale, and it's beginning to look ominous for Bradwell.

The top three, meanwhile, all won, so it's as you were in the title race.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 1-0 Stanton Town
Avidia United 5-1 Dereapolis City
Beckton Supermarine 2-3 Emberton Hibernians
Bradwell Saints 1-3 Mercia Bromham
Caledon Simpson 2-0 Caversham
CFF Monthuez 0-2 Ashton Olympic
Emberton Reds 1-0 Bromham City
Ousevale Borough 1-1 Secklow
SUNDAY
Notegia Rangers 0-2 Foxchester Rovers
Royal Emberton 1-2 Casuals Osteria

Table after MD32:

Pos Team                      P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Casuals Osteria          32  24  1   7  69  28  +41  73
  2 Caledon Simpson          32  23  4   5  57  29  +28  73
  3 Avidia United            32  22  5   5  77  31  +46  71
  4 Stanton Town             32  19  6   7  72  33  +39  63 *
  5 Royal Emberton           32  19  6   7  73  46  +27  63
  6 Ashton Olympic           32  17  8   7  56  40  +16  59
  7 Mercia Bromham           32  15  4  13  63  60   +3  49
  8 Ousevale Borough         32  14  6  12  69  63   +6  48
  9 Caversham                32  12  7  13  38  37   +1  43
 10 Emberton Hibernians      32  11 10  11  46  48   -2  43
 11 Emberton Reds            32  11  7  14  40  45   -5  40
 12 Dereapolis City          32  11  4  17  40  62  -22  37
 13 CFF Monthuez             32  10  6  16  44  51   -7  36
 14 Bromham City             32  10  6  16  36  43   -7  36
 15 Beckton Supermarine      32   9  5  18  34  44  -10  32
 16 Notegia Rangers          32   7 10  15  28  42  -14  31
 17 Secklow                  32   8  6  18  33  55  -22  30
 18 Foxchester Rovers        32   7  7  18  41  73  -32  28
 19 Bradwell Saints          32   7  5  20  32  86  -54  26
 20 Adanac City              32   4  7  21  17  49  -32  19
* Third CC place goes to KFA Cup winners – either Emberton Reds, Kallia United, Mercia Bromham, or Royal Emberton

by **Krytenia** » Wed Oct 18, 2023 5:09 am

SEASON XXIV - PART SIX

MATCHDAY 33
There's no change at the top, but not for the reason you'd expect. The top four all conspired to lose, with Casuals going down at home to the Reds, Caledon on the wrong end of a result against the Royals, and Avidia stopped in their tracks by Caversham. Stanton's loss to Ashton, meanwhile, means they give up fourth place to last season's champions.

At the bottom, Foxchester are now in the drop zone only on goal difference thanks to a win over Adanac, whilst Secklow do their survival hopes a world of good against Bradwell.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bromham City 0-1 Beckton Supermarine
Casuals Osteria 0-2 Emberton Reds
Caversham 1-0 Avidia United
Dereapolis City 2-0 Notegia Rangers
Emberton Hibernians 0-1 Ousevale Borough
Mercia Bromham 2-1 CFF Monthuez
Royal Emberton 3-1 Caledon Simpson
Stanton Town 0-1 Ashton Olympic
SUNDAY
Foxchester Rovers 2-0 Adanac City
Secklow 4-0 Bradwell Saints

MATCHDAY 34
First versus second, and third versus fourth. If that's not a Super Sunday, I don't know what is.

Before that, though, is the hors d'oeuvre of the relegation battle, where Adanac finally decided to show up – surely too late now – whilst Bradwell decided to not be a punching bag for once against Hibs. The four teams directly above them all dropping points didn't suck, either.

Onto the main course, then, and Avidia could have done without being done over at home by the Royals, what with at least one of the two teams above them guaranteed to drop points. That ended up being Caledon, as Bryan Ainslie's scuffed effort proved the only goal of the game to put Casuals three points clear atop the division.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 3-0 Dereapolis City
Ashton Olympic 2-0 Foxchester Rovers
Beckton Supermarine 1-0 Emberton Reds
Bradwell Saints 3-0 Emberton Hibernians
CFF Monthuez 1-0 Secklow
Notegia Rangers 0-0 Caversham
Ousevale Borough 4-0 Bromham City
Stanton Town 3-1 Mercia Bromham
SUNDAY
Caledon Simpson 0-1 Casuals Osteria
Avidia United 1-3 Royal Emberton

MATCHDAY 35
With the Miners winning against Beckton, all eyes were on Walton Gardens. Caledon and Avidia both pushed hard for a winner, but in the end none was forthcoming – and that might just be the title for Casuals.

At the other end, the inevitable has finally happened, with Cécilien Vanoret's winner for Caversham confirming Division One football for Adanac.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bromham City 6-1 Bradwell Saints
Casuals Osteria 2-1 Beckton Supermarine
Caversham 1-0 Adanac City – Adanac City are relegated
Dereapolis City 1-3 Ashton Olympic
Emberton Hibernians 3-2 CFF Monthuez
Emberton Reds 1-1 Ousevale Borough
Royal Emberton 3-0 Notegia Rangers
Secklow 0-3 Stanton Town
SUNDAY
Caledon Simpson 1-1 Avidia United
Foxchester Rovers 0-1 Mercia Bromham

MATCHDAY 36
Avidia United six, Casuals Osteria nil. Commentator's curse is one thing, but this is just brutal. Caledon also won, and suddenly Casuals' lead looks a bit precarious.

Meanwhile, we're now assured a new champion, as Royals lost to Adanac in a result best described as “bruh”.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 2-1 Royal Emberton
Ashton Olympic 0-1 Caversham
Bradwell Saints 0-1 Emberton Reds
CFF Monthuez 1-2 Bromham City
Mercia Bromham 2-0 Dereapolis City
Notegia Rangers 0-1 Caledon Simpson
Ousevale Borough 2-4 Beckton Supermarine
Stanton Town 4-1 Emberton Hibernians
SUNDAY
Avidia United 6-0 Casuals Osteria
Foxchester Rovers 1-1 Secklow

KFA CUP - SEMI-FINALS
For once, Hastings is on the map, as Bell Moor played host to a semi-final clash between the Reds and Kallia. Sadly for the neutrals, the chokers managed to actually get a result and will be playing the KFA Cup final on home turf.

Their opponents? None other than their cross-city rivals, as the Royals eventually got the drop on Mercia in the other semi.

Results:
Emberton Reds 1-0 Kallia United (@ Bell Moor, Hastings)
Mercia Bromham 1-1 Royal Emberton (1-2 AET) (@ Abbey Road, Bradwell)

MATCHDAY 37
So...the fates woke up on the penultimate weekend of the season – and they chose violence. At both ends of the table.

At the top, Ousevale play spoiler, with Richard Birmingham grabbing the only goal against Casuals. Not only that, but Caledon (eventually) secured all three points against already-relegated Adanac to overtake the Miners at the top. Then, just to top it all off, Avidia beat Notegia to leave them still in the hunt in the title race, especially with their mighty goal difference advantage.

And so, to the bottom. Now, technically, Bradwell aren't relegated yet. However, their loss to Beckton means to stay up, they'll need to overcome a goal difference gap of forty-one. With Foxchester, Secklow, and Notegia all losing, however, that last relegation place is between one of those three.

Just another dull season of the O-League, then.

Results:
SATURDAY
Avidia United 1-0 Notegia Rangers
Beckton Supermarine 2-1 Bradwell Saints
Bromham City 0-4 Stanton Town
Caversham 1-3 Mercia Bromham
Dereapolis City 1-0 Secklow
Emberton Hibernians 1-0 Foxchester Rovers
Emberton Reds 2-0 CFF Monthuez
Royal Emberton 2-1 Ashton Olympic
SUNDAY
Caledon Simpson 3-2 Adanac City
Casuals Osteria 0-1 Ousevale Borough

Table after MD37:

Pos Team                      P   W   D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Caledon Simpson          37  25   5   7  63  36  +27  80
  2 Casuals Osteria          37  26   1  10  72  38  +34  79
  3 Avidia United            37  24   6   7  86  36  +50  78
  4 Stanton Town             37  23   6   8  86  36  +50  75
  5 Royal Emberton           37  23   6   8  85  51  +34  75  *
  6 Ashton Olympic           37  20   8   9  63  44  +19  68
  7 Mercia Bromham           37  19   4  14  72  65   +7  61
  8 Ousevale Borough         37  17   7  13  78  68  +10  58
  9 Caversham                37  15   8  14  42  40   +2  53
 10 Emberton Reds            37  14   8  15  46  47   -1  50  *
 11 Emberton Hibernians      37  13  10  14  51  58   -7  49
 12 Beckton Supermarine      37  13   5  19  43  49   -6  44
 13 Dereapolis City          37  13   4  20  44  70  -26  43
 14 Bromham City             37  12   6  19  44  54  -10  42
 15 CFF Monthuez             37  11   6  20  49  60  -11  39
 16 Secklow                  37   9   7  21  38  61  -23  34
 17 Notegia Rangers          37   7  11  19  28  49  -21  32
 18 Foxchester Rovers        37   8   8  21  44  78  -34  32
 19 Bradwell Saints          37   8   5  24  37  99  -62  29
 20 Adanac City              37   6   7  24  24  56  -32  25  R
* Third CC place to winner of KFA Cup – either Emberton Reds or Royal Emberton.

by **Krytenia** » Sat Nov 04, 2023 3:41 pm

SEASON XXIV - THE FINALE

Tom Contares reports

15:00 - Welcome to KBS Sport's live feed of the final day of the Premier Division season, where there's all to play for at both ends of the table. We have a three way dance for the title, Stanton looking to hijack the Challengers' Cup places, and, barring a bucketful of goals at Abbey Road, one from three falling through the trap-door. That's six games with something on the line, two teams hoping for a Takil Miracle, and only two games with definitively nothing bar pride to play for. Time for a deeper dive.

15:03 - Interestingly, all three teams in the title hunt are playing away from home. Ordinarily, the KFA would have the trophy, ribbons, and helicopter on standby. However, given that two of the sides are playing at literally opposite ends of the country, the trophy itself is getting handed out tomorrow.

15:07 - With the teamsheets coming in, it's over to the Rutian Grounds first, where the leaders face off against Ashton. For Caledon Simpson, the task is simple; win and take the title. The Lions make only one change from last week, with Callum Lyall ruled out with a groin strain picked up earlier in the week. Malachi Joshua comes into the side in his place. Ashton's side will be hoping, meanwhile, that Xannerian striker Keli Babcock continues to score in bunches – she's got twenty-one for the season and shows no sign of stopping any time soon.

15:12 - Casuals Osteria, meanwhile, could have the toughest task of the three, as their opponents still have something to play for. Notegia Rangers will, barring Foxchester absolutely dunking on Bromham City and Secklow winning, be safe with all three points. They'll be at full strength with Marc Siddle returning from his five yellow card suspension. Casuals, however, will be without Serge Zampa, who's ruled out due to concussion protocols. Sixteen-year-old James Goldwyn will deputise at centre-back for the fifth time this season.

15:18 - Last of our games in the title chase will be in the far north. Avidia United travel to Adanac knowing two things; firstly, that they need both sides above them to drop points to have a chance to win the title, and secondly that their opponents will be back in Division One following the final whistle. Adanac have made a few changes, notably with both Nichi Pomander and Devon Morris out of the team. Both players are expected to be moving on in the transfer window. For United, with Gabriel Almada's broken finger still not healed enough to play, the Eagles continue with teenager Agostino Marquez in goal. Dontell Rockfield also drops to the bench as the side are playing three at the back, giving George Larsson a run-out in a three-pronged attack alongside Ryan Costello and Gil Sanchez.

15:25 - Onto the relegation dogfight, and Secklow's goal difference advantage over Rovers means that a draw will suffice. They name an unchanged side against Caversham, who make two changes; Viola Partas starts ahead of Lucas Camara, who picked up a knock against Mercia last week, and Dean Testa is preferred to Jonathan Hoyle in midfield, with Hoyle named on the bench.

15:29 - It's safe to say the neutrals are hoping that Foxchester can pull off the Great Escape, as Bromham City travel to the Unity. The Foxes had been sweating over the fitness of Terry Mayock earlier in the week, but he's named in the starting eleven. Bromham, meanwhile, prefer the experience of Ryan Donovan to young prodigy Ian Sanderson in what's expected to be Donovan's last game before retirement.

15:33 - Bradwell Saints are technically still not relegated, but unless they post a rugby score against Ousevale – and Notegia and Foxchester both lose – they're joining Adanac in Division One next season. Robert Gorman, James Hogan, and Xander Leckey all drop to the bench as Saints appear to have accepted their fate. Ousevale, meanwhile, have decided today would be a good day to hand teenage goalkeeper Ronnie Wells his full league debut. At this point you feel they're just trolling their opponents.

15:39 - One side who will be watching the goings-on at the Municipal Stadium are Stanton. Though Avidia can still win the title, they're not yet secure in third. If they lose to Adanac, the Dockers can swoop in and steal their spot with a win, so it's a fully armed and operational Reece Klaasen starting against the Reds, who are without a suspended Owen Haller. Jean-Joseph Niveau gets the nod instead.

15:43 - Royal Emberton's title defence officially ends today, and they travel to the Cygnus still technically in with a shot of third. The unlikeliness of this, though, is reflected in the team selection; with one eye on next week's cup final, there are rare starts for Vincent Garrix in goal, Artie Jacobsen in defence, and Geoff Schwarz in midfield. Mercia, too, rest a couple of players, most notably Ben Stewart. Daniel Grade, whose heroics against Caversham in last season's finale are well-remembered, will be given the chance to do the same again this season.

15:48 - The other two games taking place today are CFF Monthuez entertaining Beckton Supermarine, and Emberton Hibernians travelling to Dereapolis City. Odsonne Adair starts up front for Les Bleus, but aside from that the other sides are unchanged with continuity apparently being the watchword.

15:53 - Reports coming in from Foxchester's Anaia Square fan park that police are having to try and partially clear the area due to
the sheer number of fans watching on the big screens. The fact that a) Foxchester needed to set up a fan park for a league match, and b) that fan park has exceeded capacity by a distance tells you all you need to know how much staying up would mean for the Foxes.

15:57 - Three minutes to kickoff. Sitting comfortably? Nope, didn't think so.

16:00 - KICKOFF
Ten matches, ten grounds, ten synchronised kickoffs. Here. We. Go.

16:05 - GOAL. BRA 1-0 OUS (J Hidalgo)
Perhaps starting Ronnie Wells wasn't the bright idea Ousevale thought it was. The teenager is left in two minds from a Cameron Cooper cross and Jack Hidalgo is left unmarked to nod home. One down, forty to go.

16:07 – FIGHT! SEC 0-0 CAV
Declan Warren's tackle on Roger Callaghan wasn't the greatest, and deserved a yellow; before the referee has a chance to get the card out of his pocket, however, Callaghan takes matters into his own hands and clocks Warren in the jaw. Warren takes this about as well as you'd expect and we have an all out brawl on our hands. This...might take a minute or two to clear up.

16:08 - GOAL. DER 0-1 EMH (T Gideon)
The Ochres may be in crisis right now, but that hasn't dampened Tim Gideon's abilities. A beautifully struck free-kick beats Derry keeper Thomas King all ends up to put Hibs in front.

16:10 – RED CARDS. SEC 0-0 CAV
Right, so there's a fair bit to unpick here. Roger Callaghan and Declan Warren have both been given their marching orders by referee Peter Simms – to the surprise of nobody – but there's also been a third red shown. This was to Secklow manager Jack Keane, who decided he was going to get all in Warren's face as he made his way to the tunnel. Keane himself almost got a faceful of fist himself before his assistant Mike Walters stepped in to separate the two. In addition, there's been a couple of yellows shown to players in the brawl that ensued, but to be honest, we're not entirely sure who. Absolute disgrace from all involved, to be honest.

16:12 - GOAL. MON 1-0 BEC (O Adair)
And now you understand why Monthuez started him. Well taken finish to cap off a quick passing move from Les Bleus.

16:13 - GOAL. STA 0-1 EMR (B McShane)
Stanton's marking goes AWOL, and Brendan McShane has all the time in the world to nod home. Avidia's place in the Challengers' Cup looks a bit more secure right now.

16:15 – GOAL DISALLOWED. ASH 0-0 SIM
Alistair McConnell heads home from a corner, but the referee is having none of it. To be fair, the Simpson centre-back was effectively using Jonathan Garston as a stepladder. That's a foul any day of the week.

16:16 - GOAL. ADA 0-1 AVU (E Trevorrow)
Well, that's one way to spice up the title race! Shaun Jansen is helpless to stop an absolute missile of a strike from Ko-orenite midfielder Emmanuel Trevorrow, and the Eagles take a deserved lead not just in the game, but the title race as well. A goal for the visitors in Ashton – or Tyfield – would change that, though.

16:18 – PENALTY, RED CARD. DER 0-1 EMH
Harry Lewis makes a fine save from Eoghan Kenney's header. Trouble is, Lewis plays at left-back, and the referee is obliged to both award Hibs a penalty and send off the Dereapolis man.

16:18 – NOPE. DER 0-1 EMH
Graeme Burgess' penalty beats a sprawling King – unfortunately, it hits the post and rebounds back into play, where a purple shirt is first to it. Hibs remain in front by both a goal and a player.

16:21 - GOAL. ASH 1-0 SIM (K Babcock)
Massive goal at the Rutian Grounds! Caledon have had the better of the play so far, but they're caught with a classic Ashton sucker punch. Geno's Foster's clearance is flicked on by James Conner into the path of – who else – Keli Babcock, and the Xannerian calmly slots past Adam Leagrave to put the Bears in front. With Avidia United ahead, Caledon now lie third needing to score twice to take back top spot as things stand.

16:24 – RED CARD. MBR 0-0 REM
Ooh, that's a nasty looking one. Frici Király and Nathan Chilcott are both enthused in a tussle for the ball near the touchline – but Chilcott is a little too enthused and throws an elbow. The referee is over in a flash to send Chilcott back in the dressing room, whilst the Pasargan is looked over by the medics on the touchline. Hopefully it's just a bloody nose.

16:25 - GOAL. DER 0-2 EMH (G Burgess)
Derry's ten men have been defending stoutly since the sending-off, but Hibs have been storming the gates and now have found a way through. A free-kick whipped in by George Carada is met well by Derek Higgins, and though Thomas King is able to throw himself in front of the ball to block, Graeme Burgess makes up for his penalty miss by getting to the rebound first and slotting home.

16:30 - GOAL. DER 0-3 EMH (G Burgess)
Hibs in cruise control as Darragh Gilsenan's through-ball splits the defence, and Burgess smashes the ball past King for his second goal in five minutes. Game over at the County Ground.

16:33 – HITS THE WOODWORK. NOT 0-0 CAS
Hearts in mouths for Casuals fans as nobody is marking Jed Scott from a fiendish Sam Healey cross; Scott can only direct his header onto the bar, though, and James Goldwyn smashes the ball into the stands from the rebound. Rangers showing their determination to stay up, though.

16:34 - GOAL. FOX 1-0 BRC (R D'Eberrou)
Well then! Whilst Notegia are banging on the door, Foxchester are picking the lock at the Unity. A quick counter-attack leaves the Bromham defence flat-footed, and Jordan Kent's lobbed pass is met by Auprussian forward Regemaine D'Eberrou. Neil Phillips, who had come out to intercept, can only watch as D'Eberrou chips him and slides the ball into the now-empty net. As it stands, Foxchester are staying up.

16:35 - GOAL. ASH 1-1 SIM (C Croft)
Caledon are not out of this yet! To be fair, the goal has been coming, but the visitors opened up Ashton like a tin of peas for this one. Malachi Joshua is making the most of his opportunity, jinking past Matt Tyler and cutting inside before laying the ball off to Callum Croft, who picks his spot and leaves Leo Burgess clutching at air. The Lions need another to take top spot, but they're looking on top of this game right now. United and Casuals fans will be keeping tabs with concern, that's for sure.

16:36 - GOAL. NOT 0-1 CAS (R Archer)
Caledon started the day top, Avidia moved above them with Emmanuel Trevorrow's goal early one, but now it's Casuals' turn to position themselves at the head of the pack. Rangers are unable to get a foot in on a slick passing sequence that ends with Ryan Archer, in too much space, curling a beauty of a strike past David Pressman and into the net. With Foxchester in front as well, it's looking decidedly gloomy for Rangers at the bottom. This could be one game too far for them, and the crowd are beginning to feel a bit anxious about proceedings.

16:38 - GOAL. ADA 1-1 AVU (C Sarpong)
Adanac may be rooted to the bottom of the table, they may have absolutely nothing to play for, but that isn't going to stop them being a fly in the ointment. What makes this worse from United's perspective is that this goal was entirely preventable. No idea what was going through Sheppard Newman's mind with a suicidal backpass, but it's well short of Agostino Marquez. Charlie Sarpong isn't complaining, though, as he pounces in the confusion for the cheapest of equalisers. If this goal costs them the title, Eagles fans will be livid.

16:39 - GOAL. MBR 0-1 REM (B Pugh)
An element of good fortune as Billy Pugh's cross-cum-shot evades absolutely everybody, but the outgoing champions have been the better side today and fully deserve the lead against the ten men of Mercia. Just don't tell Tanner MacRobb that, though; the Mercia manager looks like he's about ready to blow a gasket as it is.

16:43 - GOAL. ASH 1-2 SIM (C Vantula)
For the third time in the first half, the lead changes, and it's the morning leaders back on top. Leo Burgess does well to deny Daniel Robson, turning his shot around the post, but from the ensuing corner nobody is keeping tabs on Claudio Vantula, and the Mertagnian nodded home to put Caledon in front. Vantula celebrates by whipping his shirt over his head; he'll happily eat the yellow card for that one, though. Let's be honest, I wouldn't wear that primrose and pink monstrosity if I didn't have to either.

16:52 - HALF-TIME
The handbags at The Mound means we've got a late finish to the first half there – and to be honest, that's the only excitement that game has had as Secklow seem content with not conceding today. Time for a breather.

17:07 - KICK-OFF
Watches back in sync, then, as the second half starts. Top and bottom delicately poised right now, with Caledon and Foxchester in their respective box seats. Still plenty of time for that to change, though.

17:08 - GOAL. BRA 2-0 OUS (W Dixon)
Bradwell may be going down, but they'll be damned if they're going quietly. Boro are caught cold off the kickoff, and Wayne Dixon takes advantage to double Saints' lead.

17:10 - GOAL. MON 2-0 BEC (R Tapie)
Nothing on the line in this one, but the home side are enjoying their football. René Tapie's fine finish makes it two in a match with an atmosphere like a pre-season friendly.

17:12 - GOAL. BRA 2-1 OUS (W Burns)
Teenager Will Burns only came on at half-time after Greg Williams picked up a knock in the first half, and he looks the only Ousevale player really up for this save debutant Ronnie Wells. Nice finish though.

17:13 - GOAL. ADA 1-2 AVU (M Leitão)
One can only imagine the rollocking the United team must have got at half-time. Seems to have worked, though, as the Eagles remember there were seventeen places separating the sides this morning, and the pressure pays off as David Muster's free-kick is headed in by Cabo Azure's Miguelito Leitão. Now all the men in light blue need are for the other two sides in the title race to concede...

17:16 – RED CARD. ASH 1-2 SIM
Ooh, Claudio Vantula's gone right through Michael Norcott there. The Ashton midfielder appears to be OK, but Vantula's already in the book, and the ref brandishes yellow then red to reduce the league leaders to ten men. If the Bears can make the extra player count, it could be very interesting for Casuals and/or United.

17:19 - GOAL. BRA 3-1 OUS (J Hidalgo)
Jack Hidalgo grabs his second of the game; this one's on Ousevale defender Chris Jackson, who absolutely fell asleep in possession to allow Hidalgo to pick his pocket and shoot past Wells.

17:21 - GOAL. NOT 0-2 CAS (S Masari)
Simon Masari doubles the visitors' lead with a glorious free-kick that poor David Pressman had no chance reaching. You'd think the game is safe at this point, meaning that both sets of fans will be looking at the action in Ashton and Foxchester to discover their fates.

17:23 - GOAL. FOX 1-1 BRC (S Billingham)
It's not the prettiest of goals – to be honest, it's not been the prettiest of games – but Sam Billingham eventually pokes the ball home after a messy goalmouth scramble. Another blip like that for the Foxes and it'll be Division One for them next season. It's going to be half an hour of the squeakiest of bums.

17:27 - GOAL. MBR 0-2 REM (Z Friedrichs)
Royals may have one eye on next week's KFA Cup final, but try telling that to Zach Friedrichs. The substitute connects his boot to Frici Király's cross to produce a peach of a volley, with Mercia keeper Tom Simmons rooted to the spot. Man looked awestruck by the strike, and we can't really blame him.

17:31 – HITS THE WOODWORK. ASH 1-2 SIM
The league leaders are at full panic stations as Ashton look to make the extra man count. They nearly do, as well, as Jack Planter sneaks in to crack off an angled shot. Adam Leagrave is in the wrong position to deal with it, but the ball thumps off the foot of the post and out for a goal kick. If Ashton can nab a goal, I don't see Caledon scoring, and that'll be music to the ears of Casuals fans right now.

17:34 - GOAL. NOT 0-3 CAS (T Block)
Speaking of Casuals, they're doing everything they can to make sure they're in position to take advantage of any slip-ups from the Simpson side of the equation. Teenage striker Tim Block is the beneficiary this time; he's only been on the pitch for three minutes after coming on for a clearly knackered Bryan Ainslie, but he popped up in the box to jab home a neat volley from Simon Masari's sweeping cross. Rangers, meanwhile, are toast unless Bromham can come up with a second at the Unity.

17:36 – DISALLOWED GOAL. FOX 1-1 BRC
Knott Crescent went quiet for a good forty seconds there. Oliver Angell's hopeful ball is chased down by Russell Banks, who coolly slots the ball past Neil Phillips to seemingly put the Foxes in front. Unfortunately for Phillips, he'd started his run a smidge early and was denied by an offside confirmed by the video referee. The trapdoor isn't quite closed yet.

17:40 - GOAL. STA 0-2 EMR (A Madan)
Alexander Madan bundles the ball in as Stanton fail to properly defend a free-kick, and that's the Dockers pretty much condemned to fifth spot. The irony of the Reds helping out the Royals here is not lost. Or maybe they're waiting to deny them a Challengers' Cup spot next week so they can laugh all the way to Bank Tower.

17:42- RED CARD. BRA 3-1 OUS
Leon Jones is sent off for a second bookable offence as Ousevale's day continues to get worse.

17:44 – HITS THE WOODWORK. NOT 0-3 CAS
Rangers can't even get themselves a consolation as Jed Scott fires a thunderbolt of a shot against the bar, with Casuals scrambling to clear their lines.

17:46 - WELP. ASH 1-2 SIM
Ashton really should be level there. A goalmouth scramble sees the ball land at the feet of James Connor, who then manages to get his foot right underneath the ball, ballooning it over from all of five yards out. Connor looks likes he wants to find a hole to crawl in right now.

17:47 – GOAL. DER 0-4 EMH (G Burgess)
You're forgiven if you forgot this game was still going – it was over as a contest half an hour in – but Graeme Burgess has decided that yes, he would like a hat-trick, and latches onto a lovely pass from Padraig Ó Dubhda to slot home and make it four-nil.

17:50 – GOAL. MBR 0-3 REM (S Dawlish (og))
Shaun Dawlish's backpass to Tom Simmons is barely in the same postcode as the Mercia goalkeeper, and the ball flies past him and into the net. Dawlish may have played his last game in a Mercia shirt – not because he's planning on leaving, but because by the look on his face, Tanner MacRobb is going to murder him at full-time.

17:53 – FULL TIME AT THE UNITY
It's finished one-all in Foxchester; now all the home side needs is for Notegia not to score three in stoppage time. I think they might be safe. Secklow definitely are, as we expected at the start of the day.

17:54 - FULL TIME AT KNOTT CRESCENT
That's Rangers now officially down, whilst Casuals need Ashton to pop up with a goal. Problem is, it's Caledon on the ball right now and they're in no rush to do...well, anything, really.

17:56 - FULL TIME AT THE RUTIAN GROUNDS
The keep-ball works, Ashton can't get a foot in, and the referee calls an end to proceedings. It's official: Caledon Simpson are the O-League Champions!

by **Krytenia** » Tue Feb 27, 2024 4:09 am

SEASON XXV PREVIEW

AIGBURTH ATHLETIC

Expected First XI
1. José Blanco (KRY), 23, GK
3. Thomas Day (KRY), 21, LB
5. Connor Hockenhull (KRY), 25, CB
6. James Belouan (KRY), 26, CB
2. Jonathan Yarnold (KRY), 27, RB
11. Ciaran Murphy (KRY), 21, LM
4. Christopher Merrygold (KRY), 22, CM
8. Regan McClean (KRY), 24, CM
7. Bradley Foote (KRY), 31, RM
10. Dennis Kristof (KRY), 29, HF
9. Patrick Okana (KRY), 26, ST

Nickname: The Cormorants
Home ground: ArenaWest, cap. 54,862
Rivals: Prutton
Sponsor: Potazzi (vodka)
Manager: Christian Jarvis (KRY), age 47
Last season: 2nd, Division One
Players in: José Blanco (Avidia City, ₳400k)
Players out: none

Aigburth is the beating heart of Krytenia's shipping industry, its massive docks on the shores of the Ocean of Ayes taking in cargo of all descriptions. The city has undergone much regeneration in recent decades, spearheaded by a Green-led council looking to convert old brownfield sites into housing, commercial properties, and parkland. Unfortunately, that hasn't spread to Athletic's crumbling ArenaWest ground, but the team are making the most of it, making their way back to the top flight for the first time in living memory.

Prediction: This season looks like it could be a real dogfight in the bottom six. Truth be told, though, the Cormorants lack an edge, and that could cost them dearly in the fight for survival. 20th

ASHTON OLYMPIC

Expected First XI
1. Leo Burgess (KRY), 34, GK
3. Stephen Lorimer (KRY), 30, LB
4. Jonathan Garston (KRY), 32, CB
5. Geno Foster (KRY), 20, CB
2. Matt Tyler (KRY), 28, RB
7. Carl Webb (KRY), 23, LM
8. Wang Xianliang (YZH/CMT), 20, CM
11. Jack Planter (KRY), 24, RM
12. Indigo Taylor (SAJ), 28, HF
9. Keli Babcock (XAN), 23, ST
10. James Connor (KRY), 26, ST

Nickname: The Bears
Home ground: The Rutian Grounds, cap. 56,066
Rivals: Leston Town, Dereapolis City
Sponsor: GXi (isotonic sports drink)
Manager: Eric Saunders (KRY), age 50
Last season: 6th
Players in: Wang Xiangliang (Yincheng Phoenixes (YZH), ₳1.5m); Indigo Taylor (Stormers FC (SAJ), ₳2m)
Players out: Michael Norcott (Caversham, ₳750k)

Originally founded as simply Ashton FC, the club added the Olympic moniker after the city was chosen as host of the VI Winter Games. International recognition and investment in the area followed, and the club rode the wave to build themselves into a contender. Twice O-League champions, Olympic are usually there or thereabouts in the final shake-up. Ashton are looking to be more of a threat going forward this season, having scored the fewest goals of the league's top eight last season, despite a banner year for Xannerian striker Keli Babcock. Hopefully Wang Xiangliang can provide more bullets for Babcock and James Connor; Indigo Taylor, meanwhile, will likely fit in just behind the front two.

Prediction: The big boys have all spent well. Olympic may have hit a glass ceiling. 7th

AVIDIA UNITED

Expected First XI
1. Gabriel Almada (KRY), 31, GK
3. Oscar Mendoza (KRY), 25, LB
4. Dontell Rockfield (SEM), 22, CB
12. Miguelito Leitão (CBZ), 20, CB
2. Hugh Mallon (KRY), 28, RB
11. Micael Berggren (TKT), 22, LM
6. Emmanuel Trevorrow (KOR), 27, CM
10. Esteban Salvador (KRY), 25, CM
7. Pista Benedek (PAS), 24, RM
8. Ryan Costello (KRY), 20, HF
9. Gil Sanchez (KRY), 27, ST

Nickname: The Eagles/United
Home ground: Carstairs Park, cap. 74,305
Rivals: Avidia City, CF Avides
Sponsor: Krytenia Digital Communications (telecoms)
Manager: Angél Santiago (KRY), age 47
Last season: 3rd
Players in: Joseph Wood (Myaranowra Salamantica (KOR), ₳500k); Micael Berggren (Fort Viljan Northern FC (TKT), ₳2m)
Players out: Sheppard Newman (Northshore FC (XAN), free); George Larsson (Neathill, ₳750k)

It's hard to believe nowadays, but in the early years of Krytenian professional club football, Avidia United weren't even the big team in the Second City. Back then, they were called AFC Avidia and had become very much associated with the middle-class of the metropolis in contrast with the more working-class Avidia City. A failed rebranding to Avidia Eagles was, thankfully, short-lived, but by this point City's star had begun to fade, and the newly-monikered United pitched themselves as the acceptable alternative to the Mercian giants and their bajillionaire owners. This stance may ring a little hollow now – the club spends big themselves – but at their roots, they're still a club that seems to care about its fans. Their move to Carstairs Park, a ground with both more noise and better fan experience than their old home, is proof positive of this. Now they've got the stadium, they're building a team to match and return to their dominant form of recent seasons. The signing of midfielder Micael Berggren is very much a statement in that regard.

Prediction: United have spent well – again – but so have the other big challengers. May just miss out on the trophy again. 2nd

BECKTON SUPERMARINE

Expected First XI
1. Darren Jensen (KRY), 19, GK
3. Hugh Danvers (KRY), 24, LB
5. Mohammed Hadji (KRY), 30, CB
25. Topher Riley (KRY), 19, CB
2. Raphael Jacobs (KRY), 20, RB
11. José Morales (KRY), 25, LM
4. Jay Upton (KRY), 24, CM
15. Idoya Kronotsky (SRS), 19, CM
7. Jules Renard (KRY), 25, RM
10. Patrick McLaggan (KRY), 26, HF
9. Reece Eddington (KRY), 27, ST

Nickname: The Mariners
Home ground: Orange Street, cap. 37,665
Rivals: Casuals Osteria
Sponsor: Ozone (courier service)
Manager: David Gallagher (KRY), age 44
Last season: 12th
Players in: Maxim Schearer (Destin Easterners (XAN), free); Nour Roger (Amandine AdF (KOR), ₳100k)
Players out: Kevin Ogilvy (Emberton Reds, ₳500k); Thomas Lyons (AFC Edencliff (KYP), ₳375k)

Once upon a time, Beckton Supermarine were an oddly-named team from a forgotten port city. Then they shocked the nation with a Cinderella cup run and promotion to the top flight. They then defied expectations by not only staying up, but retaining the KFA Cup into the bargain. Beckton have since consolidated, and nowadays are top-flight mainstays with occasional sojourns into the top six. An absolute pain in the backside to play, especially with the current young but hungry side.

Prediction: Right in their comfort zone again. 11th

BROMHAM CITY

Expected First XI
13. Alexander Jewell (DAR), 25, GK
3. Martin Long (KRY), 26, LB
4. Ian Sanderson (KRY), 19, CB
5. Sharon Pettinger (TKT), 32, CB
18. Jean-Jacques Friu (JUE), 22, RB
16. Tyler Chapman (KRY), 19, LM
6. Aaron Wharfedale (KRY), 22, CM
8. Gareth Flowers (KRY), 24, CM
7. Julian Backshaw (KRY), 27, RM
9. Luke Jackson (KRY), 29, ST
10. Sam Billingham (KRY), 26, ST

Nickname: City/The Navies
Home ground: Midland Stadium, cap. 79,256
Rivals: Mercia Bromham
Sponsor: Tickford (automotive)
Manager: Kevin Watson (KRY), age 45
Last season: 13th
Players in: Alexander Jewell (Mawrystwyth (KOR), ₳500k); Jean-Jacques Friu (Noton United, ₳100k)
Players out: Ryan Donovan (retired), Cameron Tate (Vna-Chuhul Rovers (TKT), free)

Originally the big dogs in Bromham – indeed, the Midland Stadium was used for the Nova Mercia “national” team back when it existed – City were eclipsed with haste once the Swann family got their talons into the city's other team. Perhaps because of this, the club is the more supported one within Bromham itself. Having spent several extended stints in the second tier, City have built a side based on getting the most out of the talent available. Kevin Watson has continued that tradition after replacing Ousevale-bound Shaun Downey before the start of last season.

Prediction: Kevin Watson has a fine mid-table side at his disposal. Jewell and Friu are solid additions, but nothing more. 13th

CALEDON SIMPSON

Expected First XI
1. Adam Leagrave (KRY), 28, GK
3. Kensorin Hattin (KRY), 25, LB
5. Alistair McConnell (KRY), 21, CB
17. Claudio Vantula (MRT), 33, CB
21. Cameron McKeown (KRY), 18, RB
11. Callum Lyall (KRY), 23, LM
6. Carson Kenzie (KRY), 23, CM
8. Shawn Burns (KRY), 22, RM
9. Callum Croft (KRY), 19, HF
12. Ronja Kukk (SRS), 26, HF
10. Daniel Robson (KRY), 25, ST

Nickname: Caley/The Lions
Home ground: Walton Gardens, cap. 55,208
Rivals: Casuals Osteria, Beckton Supermarine
Sponsor: Metropole Environmental (waste management)
Manager: Samuel Scott (KRY), age 54
Last season: 1st
Players in: Ronja Kukk (Megabrantis (SRS), ₳2.5m); Kensorin Hattin (Dinamo-Auto Trisen, ₳1m)
Players out: Alistair McConnell (Hawthorne United (XAN), free)

Simpson is traditionally the home of Krytenia's ethnically Caledonian community, and this is reflected in the identity and colours of their hometown club. The team is probably most well known for winning the AOCL in the days way, way before the O-League. In the last few seasons, the board has rejuvenated the club soup to nuts, with a new badge, a new philosophy, and absolutely zero fear, which culminated in the young Lions lifting the title in Season 24. They've not rested on their laurels, either, with Kensorin Hattin and Ronja Kukk strengthening the side.

Prediction: The Lions roared last season, and the O-League trembled. They're in the sights of the poachers now, though; expect a reality check. 8th

CASUALS OSTERIA

Expected First XI
1. Mark Marosic (KRY), 25, GK
3. Atole Kaplan (KOR), 32, LB
5. Paul Taylor (FVA), 29, CB
6. Serge Zampa (KRY), 20, CB
2. Matthew Santini (KRY), 24, RB
26. Jude Philpott (KRY), 18, LM
7. Ryan Holtz (KRY), 26, CM
19. Theodore Chevalier (KRY), 19, CM
8. Simon Masari (KRY), 30, RM
10. Ryan Archer (KRY), 24, HF
17. Marcus Karlsen (VAL), 25, ST

Nickname: Casuals/The Miners
Home ground: New Coalfields, cap. 71,119
Rivals: Beckton Supermarine
Sponsor: Krytenia Steel (steel production)
Manager: Marcus Frankel (KRY), age 43
Last season: 2nd
Players in: Marcus Karlsen (Hondo FC (VAL), ₳2.5m)
Players out: Trevor Tomassen (Stanton Town, ₳900k)

Osteria is a city built on industry, and Casuals are a team built on its workers. Originally an amateur club, the “Casuals” part of the name came from the fact that unlike many other amateur teams of the era, the players didn't have to pay subs. Instead, the local miners' unions administered and subsidised the team, who played on a cleared area of flat ground near to a spoil heap – hence the name Coalfields. As the game became more organised through the country, the club turned professional and joined the nation's first pro league. They soon built a reputation for being a very difficult side to play. Nowadays, the coal mines are almost all closed, the city has moved into steelworking as its backbone, and the team plays in a stadium that's nowhere near massive anthracite tips. In the O-League era, Casuals are most famous for being unpredictable – often following a top-six finish with one in the bottom half, and on one occasion winning the title a season after avoiding relegation on the final day. Thankfully for the fans' health, they seem to have consolidated into an actual contender in recent seasons, and are now looking to make that final step up to the top of the podium. Whether or not Marcus Karlsen can hit the ground running could be crucial.

Prediction: Casuals have the pieces; now they just need to turn that into consistency. They've been so close...maybe this is their year. 1st

CAVERSHAM

Expected First XI
1. Daniel Schiavo (KRY), 18, GK
3. Phil Ashton (KRY), 21, LB
4. Thomas Tyler (KRY), 28, CB
5. Declan Warren (KRY), 23, CB
2. Viola Partas (SRS), 28, RB
11. Malcolm Eder (KRY), 19, LM
10. Jonathan Hoyle (KRY), 31, CM
12. Michael Norcott (KRY), 27, CM
8. Artin Derc (AUP), 29, RM
19. Cécilien Vanoret (PTR), 22, HF
15. Anders Harnik (SRS), 25, ST

Nickname: The Dragons/Cav
Home ground: Draconium Arena, cap. 66,592
Rivals: Locomotive Wolverton
Sponsor: Sothiski (glassware and crystalware)
Manager: Arthur Jones (KRY), age 52
Last season: 9th
Players in: Anders Harnik (Coret Hawks (NPH), free); Michael Norcott (Ashton Olympic, ₳750k);
Players out: Lucas Camara (Baskita FC (CAD), ₳840k)

Being the largest club in the state of Sothis sounds like a flex, but if you look on a map you'll notice a lot of rolling hills and farmland. Perhaps it's apt, then, that Caversham themselves are a bit of a farm club. They're good at developing talent, but less good at holding onto it, and have tended to be a bit of a yo-yo club. A recent rebranding, including a new simplified crest and a flip of kit colours from green with orange to orange with green, was hoped to be a statement of intent. Old habits die hard, however, as first goalkeeper Amanda Bach, then defender Lucas Camara left for greener pastures. Cash has been reinvested, but it does feel like Cav are spinning their wheels somewhat.

Prediction: The Dragons have shuffled the chairs again, and will likely have another season of decently mid-table. 12th

CFF MONTHUEZ

Expected First XI
1. Alain Nouble (KRY), 24, GK
2. Serge Milian (KRY), 26, LB
4. Georges Dion (KRY), 19, CB
5. Matteo Berniers (QUE), 27, CB
3. André Olivier (KRY), 30, RB
6. Emmanuel Curie (KRY), 22, CM
8. René Tapie (AUP), 23, CM
15. Alexandre Goulin (KRY), 19, CM
11. Charles Clichy (KRY), 21, LW
7. Maurice Coman (KRY), 23, RW
9. Choetrie Denlans (AUP), 27, ST

Nickname: Les Bleus
Home ground: Stade d'Huez, cap. 24,956
Rivals: Stade Valquois
Sponsor: Huez Mode (clothing)
Manager: Bruno Virenque (KRY), age 43
Last season: 15th
Players in: Matteo Berniers (Swangard Athletic (QUE), ₳250k)
Players out: Axel Diallo (Neathill, ₳250k)

Remote, unheralded, and proudly doing their own thing. This is the way of Club Francophone de Foot Monthuez. For the club, nestled high up in the biggest city in the Monteste mountains, have always been at the cultural centre of the range's resident Francophone community. For them, it's not so much about the league position as developing fine Gallic talent. One the one hand, their “French speakers only” philosophy does restrict their potential player pool, especially as Monteste is the least populated state in the nation. On the other hand, however, is the culture around the club itself; the locals treat the team as a proxy national side for their community, and as such, the players see donning the maillot bleu as a badge of pride.

Prediction: Kept their noses just about clean last season; expect more of the same from a settled squad. 15th

DEREAPOLIS CITY

Expected First XI
1. Thomas King (KRY), 23, GK
3. Harry Lewis (KRY), 23, LB
4. Quentin Odell (KRY), 23, CB
6. Grant Hutcherson (PTR), 28, CB
3. Russell Sparwasser (KRY), 23, RB
11. Liam Smith (KRY), 29, LM
12. Jason Bishop (KRY), 18, CM
7. Eugene Hunt (SNL), 21, CM
8. Connor Horan (KRY), 28, RM
10. James Philpott (KRY), 29, HF
9. Marcus Snead (KRY), 20, ST

Nickname: Derry
Home ground: The County Ground, cap. 44,181
Rivals: Leston Town, Ashton Olympic
Sponsor: Bell Thomas (travel agent)
Manager: James Hatton (KRY), age 60
Last season: 14th
Players in: Grant Hutcherson (Stade Conflans (PTR), ₳750k)
Players out: Max Swift (St Bernadine Athletic (TAX), free)

Dereapolis have an interesting footnote in Krytenian football history; when Nova Mercia decided to form a breakaway league (no, not that one, the first time), it was they rather than expected names like Ousevale, the Bromham clubs, or Notegia, who walked away with the first title. Since then, the side have been mostly famous for being brave enough to have a purple home kit – though deliberately not the same shade as that lot on the other side of the Beck – and being, for a long time, the epitome of Division One mid-table. Having got themselves back into the top flight – at the expense of greatest rival Leston Town, no less – Derry have consolidated and are now building an exciting young team. The addition of Hutcherson, meanwhile, adds some experience in defence.

Prediction: Good enough to avoid the dogfight, but that's about their limit. 14th

EMBERTON HIBERNIANS

Expected First XI
13. Leo Pohler (KRY), 18, GK
3. Seán Ó Loaghaire (KRY), 18, LB
5. Rodrigo Lopez (KRY), 25, CB
6. Derek Higgins (KRY), 26, CB
2. Arezu Zubin (SRS), 31, RB
11. Padraig Ó Dubhda (KRY), 20, LM
10. Darragh Gilsenan (KRY), 24, CM
15. Tim Gideon (OCH), 21, CM
8. George Corada (KRY), 22, RM
9. Gennaro Christie (SEM), 28, HF
17. Euheni Wirdaner (KAN), 26, ST

Nickname: Hibs
Home ground: Paschal Park, cap. 29,012
Rivals: Emberton Reds, Royal Emberton
Sponsor: Maguire's Sorthern Stout (beer)
Manager: Aiden O'Leary (KRY), age 41
Last season: 11th
Players in: Euheni Wirdaner (DFK Kanmer (KAN), ₳1.5m); Gennaro Christie (Krsthaven (SEM), ₳3m)
Players out: Dillon Power (Falourr (EUR), ₳2m)

The youngest of Emberton's three top flight sides – and for that matter, the youngest top flight side of the lot – Hibs were originally founded in the aftermath of the destruction of the nation of Sorthern Northland. Hundreds of thousands of refugees managed to escape the nation before its civil war went nuclear, and a large number of them settled in Krytenia, and the capital especially. Emberton Sorthern FC were founded not just as a football club, but also as a force for good for the displaced Sortherners, with gate receipts and merchandise sales. As their former nation receded into the history books, it was decided to change the name to something that referenced the team's roots a bit more generally, and the club is now favoured, not just around Emberton's Sorthern-Irish community, but on a wider scope amongst the many immigrant groups in the capital. The team also still works hard with Emberton's immigrants, funding a number of food banks and community projects to assist the capital's poorest citizens. The fact that they're now established as a potential contender for the IFCF spots is just a bonus, as was the two million argentals they somehow managed to convince Euran side Falourr to part with for Dillon Power.

Prediction: Some decent signings, but the hunt for IFCF places looks brutal Will be fighting for scraps with rival Reds. 9th

EMBERTON REDS

Expected First XI
1. Nathan Klingbell (TKT), 29, GK
3. Moisés Negredo (KRY), 26, LB
16. Kevin Ogilvy (KRY), 27, CB
6. Alexander Solis (KRY), 19, CB
2. Juliano Blanco (KRY), 27, RB
8. Owen Haller (KRY), 26, LM
4. Jack Kohler (KRY), 21, CM
17. Remo Herrera (KRY), 18, CM
10. Jesse Garrett (KRY), 27, RM
7. Rachel Duback (CDG), 23, HF
9. Brendan McShane (KRY), 28, ST

Nickname: The Reds
Home ground: Isserson Olympic Stadium, cap. 196,340
Rivals: Emberton Hibernians, Royal Emberton
Sponsor: JMC (sportswear)
Manager: Alistair Schwartzel (KRY), age 52
Last season: 10th
Players in: Rachel Duback (Concord Heights City (CDG), ₳2.5m); Kevin Ogilvy (Beckton Supermarine, ₳500k)
Players out: Robert Yates (retired)

To say Emberton Reds are an institution would certainly be accurate; it's also wise to remember that word also applies to mental health asylums. The Reds are famous – nay, infamous – for starting a season promisingly, only to throw it away in the space of a scant few weeks. It's often said that you can spot a Reds fan in February by the thousand-yard glassy stare as yet another season disintegrates in front of their eyes. That said, they did at least lift a trophy last season, in the form of the KFA Cup.

Prediction: All three Emberton sides look good for the top half...though just barely in the Reds' case. 10th

FOXCHESTER ROVERS

Expected First XI
1. James Bogdanovic (KRY), 26, GK
2. Thomas Keys (KRY), 24, LB
5. Nicholas Buchanan (KRY), 25, CB
14. Jay Reidenberg (KRY), 24, CB
18. Brett Horne (CRT), 26, RB
7. Nathan Goode (KRY), 24, LM
4. Jordan Kent (KRY), 28, CM
8. Russell Banks (KRY), 29, RM
9. Michael Morris (KRY), 31, HF
10. Regemaine D'Eberrou (KRY), 24, HF
11. Callum Wilson (KRY), 29, ST

Nickname: The Foxes/Rovers
Home ground: The Unity Stadium at Railyards Park, cap 47,414
Rivals: Ousevale Borough, Ousevale Juniors
Sponsor: Unity Mutual (insurance)
Manager: Nathan Miles (KRY), age 39
Last season: 17th
Players in: Brett Horne (Lion City Celtic (DAN), free); Jay Reidenberg (Sandwell Rangers, free)
Players out: none

Foxchester, traditionally, has been known as a commuter town to the north of its big brother Ousevale, and for having an identical name to a much larger city in Starblaydia, to the extent that the old joke was that they should just change the team's name to Foxchester No Not That One. The club, for many years, found themselves drifting between the league's second and third tiers, occasionally threatening to get themselves into the top flight only to sink back into the pack within a season or two. Then the creation of Anaia happened, and that Foxchester name suddenly became a badge of honour – even though the identity of which Foxchester the infamous meeting happened is deliberately kept vague. (The joke, meanwhile, simply updated the alternate name to Foxchester Not The Declaration.) Rather than playing on the Anaian theme, however, the club decided to rebrand on the “Foxes” aspect, changing colours from blue to white, orange, and black. It seems to have worked, as under the stewardship of former Caledon Simpson midfielder Tanner MacRobb, the team finally made it to the nosebleeds. MacRobb was poached by Mercia Bromham, and thence to the national side, but Nathan Miles kept the side up last season on the final day.

Prediction: Bogdanovic will be the key to them staying up; in a competitive relegation battle, he might just have too much on his plate. 18th

MERCIA BROMHAM

Expected First XI
1. Tom Simmons (KRY), 23, GK
3. Anastasia Halvorsen (VAL), 23, LB
5. Kevin Jameson (KRY), 27, CB
6. Shaun Dawlish (KRY), 26, CB
2. Justin Darcy (KRY), 28, RB
7. Stefanie Martini (CBP), 23, LM
4. Jonathan Byrd (KRY), 23, CM
12. Eddie Culverhouse (KRY), 19, CM
8. Phil Matthews (KRY), 26, RM
10. Ben Stewart (KRY), 30, HF
9. Claudia Grayson (CBP), 23, ST

Nickname: Mercia/The Midlanders
Home ground: Cygnus Stadium, cap 105,013
Rivals: Ousevale Borough, Bromham City
Sponsor: Cygnus Corporation (tech hardware/software)
Manager: Tommy Warren, age 42
Last season: 7th
Players in: Stefanie Martini (Broadview AFC (CBP), ₳4m); Claudia Grayson (Shirley Metros Ladies (CBP), ₳3.25m)
Players out: Gerry Walsh (CF Saint-Richard (KSK), free)

When Bromham East Green and Mercia Birmwood merged in the early days of Krytenian football, nobody had any clue of the monster they would unleash. Though they did have to play second fiddle to their cross-city rivals for a few seasons, they slowly grew to be a local powerhouse, with intent to grow their tendrils yet further. Andrew Swann saw in the club a set of ambitions that matched his own, and added Mercia as a shiny bauble adjacent to his Cygnus tech empire. His descendants have inherited both his eye for business and complete lack of scruples, which might explain why the Midlanders are the most hated team in the country among non-fans. This is the crucible and poisoned chalice handed to former national team boss Tommy Warren, along with two new big money signings from Baker Park.

Prediction: They might have more consistency if they kept a manager in place for a while. Admittedly, it's not their fault this time, but even so... 6th

NEATHILL

Expected First XI
1. Mark Davis (KRY), 28, GK
2. John Demetriou (KRY), 22, LB
5. Axel Diallo (KRY), 31, CB
6. Benjamin St. Paul (KRY), 28, CB
3. Tyler Belazza (KRY), 18, RB
11. Michil Sloteend (KOR), 21, LM
4. Primo Pacheta (KRY), 24, CM
7. Ken Callan (KRY), 26, CM
8. Gavin Zarra (KRY), 19, RM
9. Ashley Johansson (KRY), 26, HF
10. George Larsson (KRY), 23, ST

Nickname: The Hillmen
Home ground: QES Stadium, cap. 31,502
Rivals: Quinton City, Adanac City
Sponsor: QES (educational software)
Manager: Andy Dunn, age 41
Last season: 1st, Division One
Players in: Michil Sloteend (Het Vlaggenschip (KOR), free); Axel Diallo (CFF Monthuez, ₳250k); Mark Davis (Ousevale Borough, ₳650k)
Players out: [i[none[/i]

Neathill – the town – is a lovely town on a hill. Neathill – the team – are a half-decent team in a lovely town on a hill. It's never been the biggest draw or the most exciting place, but Neathill FC have carved a niche as one of the stalwarts of the second tier. This season is likely to be one of their semi-frequent single season sojourns into the top flight.

Prediction: Fingernails bitten to the quick, but might just have enough to survive. Mark Davis and Axel Diallo are strengthening signings just where they're needed. 17th

OUSEVALE BOROUGH

Expected First XI
1. Tamika Harridan (NPH), 25, GK
3. Danny Raymond (KRY), 25, LB
5. Renee McKenzie (KRY), 23, CB
18. Julian Sackholme (OCH), 25, CB
15. Charlie Allen (KRY), 20, RB
11. Connor Mitchell (KRY), 27, LM
8. Harun Farrow (EFL), 24, CM
10. Josh Cochrane (KRY), 31, RM
9. Greg Williams (KRY), 25, HF
17. Richard Birmingham (FVA), 26, ST
20. Dean Moxey (KRY), 22, ST

Nickname: The Tigers/Boro
Home ground: Southern Arena, cap 91,093
Rivals: Mercia Bromham
Sponsor: Chirper (social media)
Manager: Shaun Downey, age 48
Last season: 8th
Players in: Tamika Harridan (Crisisbless United (NPH), ₳3m); Harun Farrow (Langlois Océanic (KSK), ₳2.75m); Renee McKenzie (Ellesmere Woods FC (CBP), ₳2m)
Players out: Leon Jones (Avondale City (SYL), ₳2.08m); Mark Davis (Neathill, ₳650k)

Long-time followers will need no introduction to this lot. Without a doubt, the most successful side in Krytenian football, built on a succession of shrewd (and often expensive) international signings, especially at striker. The likes of Soraya Roshanak, Valrauncion, Drunn Deleks, and Michael Willem are now joined by Flavovespia's Richard Birmingham, who's already carving his own name into the Ousevale legend. A lot of this spending is down to the Spencer family, owners of the club, property magnates, and pioneers of Krytenia's social housing programmes. To add to the coffers, the family have even eschewed having the name of one of their property firms on the club's shirts for the first time in years, instead signing a big-money deal with social media network Chirper. Not that it helped last season, as they finished eighth. Ousevale's new plan to bounce back from this is their old plan: spend all the money.

Prediction: Banging on the door like a jealous ex. 5th

ROYAL EMBERTON

Expected First XI
1. Louis Kendrick (KRY), 28, GK
2. Sahwen Chao (SNL), 27, LB
5. Malcolm Kirsten (KRY), 31, CB
24. Adam Tay (KRY), 18, CB
12. Spinelle Pawson (NPH), 25, RB
11. Billy Pugh (KRY), 25, LM
4. Evan Izzet (KRY), 28, CM
8. Darren Gabriel (KRY), 23, CM
7. Frici Király (PAS), 24, RM
10. Devon Morris (KRY), 22, HF
17. Enrique Garcia (KRY), 19, ST

Nickname: The Royals/Pats
Home ground: Oxley Park, cap 53,882
Rivals: Emberton Reds, Emberton Hibernians
Sponsor: Elmec (electronics)
Manager: Jonas Skarsgaard, age 51
Last season: 4th
Players in: Spinelle Pawson (Raven River (NPH), ₳2m); Devon Morris (Adanac City, ₳1m)
Players out: Andrew Kirsten (Daedonggang 3.26 (QUE), loan)

Usually second in the capital's pecking order, Royal Emberton are probably the only team in the league that needs to know the plural of “identity crisis”. Formed as Everton City Patriots, their first name change was an enforced one due to the renaming of the city itself. The Emberton Patriots name would only last a couple of seasons before the side rebranded as Krytenia Emberton, though the “Pats” nickname has still stuck around. A brief (and again, enforced) name change to Emberton Oxley during the West Starblaydi regime followed until Dominique and Tiberius were told in no uncertain terms to stay down their own end. With home rule – and the monarchy – restored, the club finally settled on their current name. Their form was about as consistent as their name for the longest time; ironically, a change of fortune would come following a rebranding of the one thing that remained constant through all the different names – the badge. The crowned lion and shield was introduced in the lead-up to Season 23, and the club would go on to win that season's title – their first of the O-League era.

Prediction: More solid signings, but the big three have invested perhaps more wisely. Will be a pain to play in the meantime. 4th

SANDWELL RANGERS

Expected First XI
1. Christopher Silverman (QUE/CMT), 23, GK
3. Stephen Rios (KRY), 24, LB
4. Manny Rawlinson (KRY), 21, CB
5. Brittany Edwards (SNL), 24, CB
2. Gordon Lukic (KRY), 22, RB
11. Thomas Nivelo (KRY), 23, LM
6. Jesse Moliano (KRY), 20, CM
7. Brandon Cornell (KRY), 25, MC
8. Adam Taglieri (KRY), 22, RM
10. Max Amaro (KRY), 21, HF
9. Martin Forss (KRY), 22, ST

Nickname: Rangers
Home ground: South Road, cap 32,240
Rivals: NSE Kovenham, Secklow
Sponsor: Meridian (hotels)
Manager: Christian Mathias (45)
Last season: 3rd, Division One
Players in: Christopher Silverman (Portland Pacific, ₳500k); Brittany Edwards (unaffiliated)
Players out: Jay Reidenberg (Foxchester Rovers, free)

Sandwell have traditionally somewhat of a backwater team in western Krytenia. That all changed, though, with a surprise promotion that led to a seven-season stay in the top flight. Rangers may have been relegated, but they've bounced straight back, and the signing of Christopher Silverman indicates that they're intending to stay.

Prediction: Could finish anywhere from about fifteenth down. Pin in the paper says relegation. 19th

SECKLOW

Expected First XI
1. Deion Hendricks (KRY), 24, GK
3. Keith Bettini (KRY), 24, LB
5. Marc Siddle (KRY), 20, CB
6. Vladislava Osina (PYA), 20, CB
2. Antosha Korablin (PYA), 20, RB
8. Roger Callaghan (KRY), 22, LM
4. Ihar Rindewan (KAN), 28, CM
7. Jordan Tillotson (KRY), 24, CM
11. Adam Kimmich (KRY), 21, RM
10. Murray Sampson (KRY), 26, ST
17. Matt Wright (KRY), 19, ST

Nickname: The Hoops
Home ground: The Mound, cap 56,137
Rivals: NSE Kovenham
Sponsor: Spectrum Paints (paint)
Manager: Jack Keane, age 51
Last season: 16th
Players in: Ihar Rindewan (Amartol (KAN), ₳500k)
Players out: Josh Simcox (Sporting Solsholm (SEM), free)

Krytenia's western states have never been the most productive for top-flight football teams; NSE Kovenham could never quite push even into mid-table, and the last time Aigburth Athletic were relevant prior to this season, dinosaurs roamed the earth. Secklow, though, are different. True, they've not had the consistency in recent years, but they were a mainstay of the O-League's early seasons before fading, and their iconic red and blue hoops are still recognisable to this day. The current iteration is very much concentrating on building a strong, young core, with Kanmer's Ihar Rindewan being an interesting rock upon which to build.

Prediction: Should stay up again, so long as they hit the ground running. 16th

STANTON TOWN

Expected First XI
13. Danté Meaden (KRY), 20, GK
3. Shawn Ford (MRT/EUR), 23, LB
5. Des Edwards (KRY), 33, CB
6. Michael Houseman (KRY), 21, CB
2. Margaret Harlow (MRT), 31, RB
11. Dylan James (KRY), 26, LM
4. Jonathan Aubrey (KRY), 23, CM
8. Zachary Lyons (KRY), 28, CM
7. Cordell Black (KRY), 28, RM
10. Charlie Rice (KRY), 21, HF
9. Reece Klaasen (KRY), 24, ST

Nickname: The Dockers
Home ground: Harbour Stadium, cap 60,662
Rivals: Bradwell Saints
Sponsor: Stanton & Tabeck Ferry Company (shipping)
Manager: Will Rowlands, age 45
Last season: 5th
Players in: Trevor Tomassen (Casuals Osteria, ₳900k)
Players out: Joe Shearer (Northbrook Diamonds FK (PIS), free)

Stanton's history is intertwined with that of it's famous football family; the Kennedy dynasty. From Gabriel and Raphael through to Selaphiel, the surname is indelibly linked with the team, and often the fortunes of the Dockers depended largely on whether the guy playing up front had those seven letters on the back of his shirt. Recent years have changed that, though, and investment in the academy and shrewd managers such as Richard Valens and Paul James have borne bumper crops of fruit. They're also not afraid to bring in youngsters from other clubs, a policy that Reece Klaasen is surely quite glad of, as he's been allowed to truly shine at the Harbour Stadium.

Prediction: Will Rowlands is going for evolution rather than revolution. May not be enough to challenge for the full season. 3rd

by **Krytenia** » Tue Feb 27, 2024 4:29 pm

SEASON XXV - PART ONE

If Royal Emberton's title in Season 23 was unexpected, Caledon Simpson lifting the Gabriel Kennedy Trophy last season came from deep out of nowhere. The Lions will have a massive bullseye on their backs, with Avidia United, Casuals Osteria, Stanton Town, and – if they finally get their collective acts together – Ousevale Borough and Mercia Bromham all in the race, this could be an absolute slobberknocker of a season. At the other end, the relegation dogfight looks wide open. Foxchester survived on the final day last season – can history repeat?

Let's find out.

MATCHDAY 1
It must be said, the navy and purple ribbons do look swish on the trophy, despite the connotations of said colours. Caledon had the pot proudly on display for the Champion's Kick-Off, then laboured to a win over a solid looking Bromham City side. Callum Croft's strike from just inside the box proved the difference.

Saturday, meanwhile, was a chance for the other challengers to lay down a marker. Avidia United did just that, putting Derry to the sword, whilst both Stanton and Mercia were made to work for their wins. Indeed, Aigburth's display against the Midlanders may bode well for their chances of survival.

One team who did their chances no favours, meanwhile, were Ousevale. Their team may be full of brand names, but on the pitch they lacked cohesiveness. Emberton Reds took full advantage, putting six past the toothless Tigers.

Sunday saw the second televised game of the weekend, with deposed champions Royal Emberton travelling to the Rutian Grounds...and returning with their tails between their legs. James Connor's well-taken brace, plus goals from Keli Babcock and Carl Webb, helped Ashton ease to a four-one win.

Results:
FRIDAY - CHAMPION'S KICK OFF
Caledon Simpson 1-0 Bromham City

SATURDAY
Avidia United 6-0 Dereapolis City
Beckton Supermarine 2-0 CFF Monthuez
Emberton Hibernians 2-2 Casuals Osteria
Emberton Reds 6-0 Ousevale Borough
Mercia Bromham 2-1 Aigburth Athletic
Neathill 2-2 Secklow
Sandwell Rangers 0-2 Foxchester Rovers
Stanton Town 3-2 Caversham
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 4-1 Royal Emberton

MATCHDAY 2
It's safe to say the Eagles mean business. Fresh from hitting Dereapolis from six last week, Avidia United rolled over Caversham at the Draconium, with Ryan Costello bagging a pair to take his two-game total to five. Gabriel Almada, meanwhile is probably the most bored player in the O-League right now. Mercia, meanwhile, posted their second less than convincing win of the season, though as with Aigburth last week, this was more down to Foxchester being difficult to break down than any underperformance from the boys in white and navy.

Sunday's games, meanwhile, saw Casuals put to the sword at home to Stanton, whilst Ousevale took out their anger from last week on the champions.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bromham City 0-0 Ashton Olympic
Caversham 0-4 Avidia United
CFF Monthuez 2-0 Emberton Hibernians
Dereapolis City 2-1 Aigburth Athletic
Foxchester Rovers 0-2 Mercia Bromham
Neathill 1-1 Beckton Supermarine
Royal Emberton 3-1 Sandwell Rangers
Secklow 1-1 Emberton Reds
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 0-4 Stanton Town
Ousevale Borough 2-0 Caledon Simpson

MATCHDAY 3
Well, if nothing else, commentator's curse is still in full effect. Avidia United hosted Casuals on Sunday, but it was the visitors who went to town, with the Miners putting on a scintillating display for what is, surprisingly, their first win of the season. Stanton and Mercia took advantage, despite the latter still being in third gear, to open a gap from the rest at the top.

Third place – and the league's only other unbeaten record – belongs to, of all teams, Beckton Supermarine. Jules Renard's late winner secured the three points at the Isserson; Beckton's record should be taken with a pinch of salt, though, considering their other results are a win over Monthuez and a draw with, of all teams, Neathill.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 0-0 Caversham
Ashton Olympic 0-4 Ousevale Borough
Caledon Simpson 3-1 Secklow
Emberton Hibernians 4-0 Neathill
Emberton Reds 1-2 Beckton Supermarine
Mercia Bromham 2-0 Dereapolis City
Sandwell Rangers 0-4 Bromham City
Stanton Town 4-1 CFF Monthuez
SUNDAY
Avidia United 1-4 Casuals Osteria
Foxchester Rovers 1-3 Royal Emberton

MATCHDAY 4
This matchday can be best described as “a mess”. Stanton came dangerously close to losing to Neathill, Mercia are still spinning their wheels after drawing a blank at Oxley Park, and Avidia United somehow conspired to only draw in the mountains. Ousevale, meanwhile, were undone by a Max Amaro thunderbolt that secured victory for previously pointless Sandwell.

All this meant that Beckton could take a share of top spot with a win against local(ish) rivals Caledon Simpson. The champions, though, had other ideas, with Claudio Vantula nodding home from a corner to take all three points and lift the Lions up to third.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bromham City 1-2 Foxchester Rovers
Casuals Osteria 1-0 Aigburth Athletic
Caversham 1-0 Dereapolis City
CFF Monthuez 1-1 Avidia United
Neathill 2-2 Stanton Town
Ousevale Borough 0-1 Sandwell Rangers
Royal Emberton 0-0 Mercia Bromham
Secklow 0-3 Ashton Olympic
SUNDAY
Beckton Supermarine 1-2 Caledon Simpson
Emberton Reds 0-0 Emberton Hibernians

MATCHDAY 5
I think we can safely say the honeymoon is over for Beckton, as they're taken to school by a rampant Ashton side and fall to tenth. Above them, Mercia again win more through hard work than domination, with Caledon and Stanton both winning their respective matches to keep the top three as is.

The local derby between Foxchester and Ousevale, meanwhile, started with both sides on the same points and goal difference – a testament both to the Foxes' newfound confidence and the Tigers' stuttering start. Any hopes of a home win at the Unity, though, faded fast as Ousevale went two up within ten minutes on their way to securing the points.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 1-1 CFF Monthuez
Ashton Olympic 4-0 Beckton Supermarine
Avidia United 3-1 Neathill
Caledon Simpson 2-0 Emberton Hibernians
Dereapolis City 1-2 Casuals Osteria
Mercia Bromham 2-0 Caversham
Royal Emberton 1-2 Bromham City
Sandwell Rangers 0-2 Secklow
SUNDAY
Foxchester Rovers 1-3 Ousevale Borough
Stanton Town 1-0 Emberton Reds

Table after MD5:

Pos Team                     P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
  1 Stanton Town             5  4  1  0  14   5  +9  13
  2 Mercia Bromham           5  4  1  0   8   1  +7  13
  3 Caledon Simpson          5  4  0  1   8   4  +4  12
  4 Avidia United            5  3  1  1  15   6  +9  10
  5 Ashton Olympic           5  3  1  1  11   5  +6  10
  6 Casuals Osteria          5  3  1  1   9   8  +1  10
  7 Ousevale Borough         5  3  0  2   9   8  +1   9
  8 Bromham City             5  2  1  2   7   4  +3   7
  9 Royal Emberton           5  2  1  2   8   8  +0   7
 10 Beckton Supermarine      5  2  1  2   6   8  -2   7
 11 Foxchester Rovers        5  2  0  3   6   9  -3   6
 12 Emberton Reds            5  1  2  2   8   4  +4   5
 13 Emberton Hibernians      5  1  2  2   6   6  +0   5
 14 Secklow                  5  1  2  2   6   9  -3   5
 15 CFF Monthuez             5  1  2  2   5   8  -3   5
 16 Caversham                5  1  1  3   3   9  -6   4
 17 Neathill                 5  0  3  2   6  12  -6   3
 18 Dereapolis City          5  1  0  4   3  12  -9   3
 19 Sandwell Rangers         5  1  0  4   2  11  -9   3
 20 Aigburth Athletic        5  0  2  3   3   6  -3   2

by **Krytenia** » Tue Apr 09, 2024 4:39 am

SEASON XXV - PART TWO

MATCHDAY 6
The league leaders and the reigning champions took to the pitch at Walton Gardens in a game that promised much, but delivered little as both sides drew a blank. All this was the sweetest music for Mercia, who took a two-point lead at the top after dominating their cross-city rivals.

Extra delicious for the league leaders are the travails of Ousevale, who were schooled at home by the Royals; the Tigers now sit in eighth place, above Foxchester(!) by virtue of having scored two more goals.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 0-0 Sandwell Rangers
Casuals Osteria 3-3 Caversham
CFF Monthuez 2-0 Dereapolis City
Emberton Hibernians 0-0 Ashton Olympic
Emberton Reds 2-1 Avidia United
Neathill 2-0 Aigburth Athletic
Ousevale Borough 1-4 Royal Emberton
Secklow 1-2 Foxchester Rovers
SUNDAY
Bromham City 1-4 Mercia Bromham
Caledon Simpson 0-0 Stanton Town

KFA CUP - ROUND ONE
Bradwell Saints are competing in the first round of the Cup for the first time in donkey's years. Thankfully for them, the banana skin was comfortably averted as they eased past Lakefield. Notegia, meanwhile, were less fortunate, beaten by a late Andrew Magaro goal at home to lowly Zoderby United.

MATCHDAY 7
Stanton are undone by a Keli Babcock screamer, Caledon and Avidia fall over each other, and all of a sudden, Mercia are five points clear at the top of the table.

Also, there's clearly something in the Foxchester water. They beat Beckton to rise to the heady heights of fifth place, whilst downriver, Ousevale suffer their second four-one reverse in a row to fall into the bottom half.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 1-1 Emberton Reds
Ashton Olympic 1-0 Stanton Town
Bromham City 4-1 Ousevale Borough
Caversham 1-2 CFF Monthuez
Dereapolis City 1-0 Neathill
Foxchester Rovers 3-1 Beckton Supermarine
Royal Emberton 2-3 Secklow
Sandwell Rangers 1-1 Emberton Hibernians
SUNDAY
Avidia United 1-1 Caledon Simpson
Mercia Bromham 1-0 Casuals Osteria

MATCHDAY 8
Given Ousevale's dip in form, you'd think this would be the worst time for the Mercian Classic to come up on the fixture list, especially with Mercia sitting pretty atop the league. Credit to the Tigers, though, they raised their game against their rivals - it just wasn't quite enough, as Kevin Jameson's bullet header clinched a seven-goal thriller for the visitors.

Behind them, Caledon slip up at home to winless bottom side Aigburth, Ashton can't deal with a resurgent Avidia, and it's now Stanton in a clear second place after a ruthless display at home to struggling Sandwell.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 2-3 Avidia United
Beckton Supermarine 1-3 Royal Emberton
Caledon Simpson 1-1 Aigburth Athletic
CFF Monthuez 1-0 Casuals Osteria
Emberton Hibernians 0-2 Foxchester Rovers
Emberton Reds 2-1 Dereapolis City
Secklow 1-0 Bromham City
Stanton Town 5-1 Sandwell Rangers
SUNDAY
Neathill 0-2 Caversham
Ousevale Borough 3-4 Mercia Bromham

MATCHDAY 9
If somebody told you that Foxchester versus Stanton would be fourth versus second, you'd have assumed you misheard the word "Foxchester". But here we are, Foxchester troubling the IFCF places on merit, and proving that point with a hard fought draw. OK, so the dropped points put them sixth, but they're still only two points off second place.

Mercia, meanwhile, are letting the chasing pack get on with beating each other senseless, with their routine win over Monthuez extending their lead to seven points.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 0-1 Ashton Olympic
Bromham City 1-0 Beckton Supermarine
Casuals Osteria 3-0 Neathill
Caversham 1-1 Emberton Reds
Dereapolis City 0-5 Caledon Simpson
Mercia Bromham 3-0 CFF Monthuez
Ousevale Borough 2-0 Secklow
Sandwell Rangers 2-4 Avidia United
SUNDAY
Foxchester Rovers 1-1 Stanton Town
Royal Emberton 1-2 Emberton Hibernians

MATCHDAY 10
Oh, Stanton. Let's be honest, Secklow were never going to do you a favour against Mercia - and they duly didn't - but losing at home to the Royals does nothing for you in the chase. Case in point, the Dockers are now fifth. Caledon now lead the chasing pack, whilst Ashton sneak into third after beating West Mercian rivals Dereapolis.

Foxchester, meanwhile, have officially gone to plaid. Jordan Kent had the game of his life, controlling the midfield and setting up Regemaine D'Eberrou's winner as they beat Avidia United to go fourth in the table.

Results:
SATURDAY
Avidia United 1-2 Foxchester Rovers
Beckton Supermarine 0-0 Ousevale Borough
Caledon Simpson 2-0 Caversham
Emberton Hibernians 4-1 Bromham City
Neathill 1-3 CFF Monthuez
Sandwell Rangers 1-0 Aigburth Athletic
Secklow 0-2 Mercia Bromham
Stanton Town 1-2 Royal Emberton
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 3-1 Dereapolis City
Emberton Reds 1-3 Casuals Osteria

MATCHDAY 11
Mercia suffered an early scare at home to Neathill, George Larsson firing the visitors ahead in the eighth minute, but the league leaders soon wrested control of the game, eventually coming out three-one winners. The same couldn't be said of Caledon, who squandered an early lead of their own at Coalfields, a draw suiting neither side's ambitions. It all means that Mercia are now eight points clear, with Ashton's win over Caversham lifting them into second.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bromham City 2-0 Stanton Town
Caversham 0-2 Ashton Olympic
CFF Monthuez 2-2 Emberton Reds
Dereapolis City 2-1 Sandwell Rangers
Foxchester Rovers 2-0 Aigburth Athletic
Mercia Bromham 3-1 Neathill
Ousevale Borough 1-2 Emberton Hibernians
Secklow 0-2 Beckton Supermarine
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 1-1 Caledon Simpson
Royal Emberton 1-0 Avidia United

MATCHDAY 12
A moment of silence, please, for Beckton's dignity. True, they were playing the league leaders, but going down six-nil at home is a real chastener of a result. There's no blinking from the chasing pack, though, as Ashton come out on top at home to Casuals, Caledon squeak past Monthuez, and Foxchester continue to lead a charmed life in fourth with a win over Dereapolis.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 1-3 Royal Emberton
Avidia United 2-0 Bromham City
Beckton Supermarine 0-6 Mercia Bromham
Caledon Simpson 1-0 CFF Monthuez
Emberton Hibernians 3-1 Secklow
Emberton Reds 4-2 Neathill
Foxchester Rovers 2-0 Dereapolis City
Sandwell Rangers 2-1 Caversham
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 2-1 Casuals Osteria
Stanton Town 1-0 Ousevale Borough

Table after MD12:

Pos Team                      P   W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Mercia Bromham           12  11  1  0  31   6  +25  34
  2 Ashton Olympic           12   8  2  2  22  10  +12  26
  3 Caledon Simpson          12   7  4  1  19   7  +12  25
  4 Foxchester Rovers        12   8  1  3  20  13   +7  25
  5 Royal Emberton           12   7  1  4  24  17   +7  22
  6 Stanton Town             12   6  3  3  22  12  +10  21
  7 Avidia United            12   6  2  4  27  16  +11  20
  8 Emberton Hibernians      12   5  4  3  18  13   +5  19
  9 Casuals Osteria          12   5  3  4  20  17   +3  18
 10 CFF Monthuez             12   5  3  4  15  16   -1  18
 11 Emberton Reds            12   4  5  3  21  15   +6  17
 12 Bromham City             12   5  1  6  16  16   +0  16
 13 Ousevale Borough         12   4  1  7  17  23   -6  13
 14 Beckton Supermarine      12   3  3  6  10  21  -11  12
 15 Secklow                  12   3  2  7  12  22  -10  11
 16 Sandwell Rangers         12   3  2  7  10  24  -14  11
 17 Caversham                12   2  3  7  11  21  -10   9
 18 Dereapolis City          12   3  0  9   8  27  -19   9
 19 Neathill                 12   1  3  8  12  28  -16   6
 20 Aigburth Athletic        12   0  4  8   6  17  -11   4

by **Krytenia** » Tue Apr 09, 2024 4:36 pm

SEASON XXV - PART THREE

KFA CUP - ROUND TWO
Stanton Town. One of the biggest teams in the country, playing a team from the marshy East Mercian hinterlands near the Bostopian border. What could possibly go wrong?

Well, quite a lot, apparently. Twice the Dockers took the lead, twice St Peters pulled back to level terms. The game went to penalties, and two excellent saves from Paul Timmons (and a quite shocking miss from Stanton substitute George Dodd) put the third-tier side into the hat for Round Three.

Surprisingly, another Prem side managed to fall down an even bigger chasm. Faversham Town may be a mid-table side in Division Four, but they can park the bus with the best of them, keeping the Hibs attack at bay for the full one hundred and twenty minutes before holding their collective nerve in the ensuing shootout.

Elsewhere, Secklow also went out on penalties, though at least they lost to a good Division One side in the form of Leston, Sandwell were downed by last season's Division Two champions Oustia, whilst two other Prem sides, Monthuez and Aigburth, at least had the decency to go out to high profile top-tier sides.

MATCHDAY 13
Hold on to your hats, everyone...thirteen matches in, and Aigburth have finally won a game. Bromham City are the unfortunate victims, as the Cormorants lift themselves off bottom spot on goal difference. Speaking of breaking a duck, Derry's dull nil-nil at Oxley Park is their first draw of the season.

That was one of three goalless affairs in this weekend's proceedings; the one that had the biggest consequence had to be the leaders drawing a blank at home to the Reds. Ashton were the only side in the top four to collect three points rather than one, meanwhile, and they reduce the gap behind Mercia to six points.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 0-0 Emberton Hibernians
Bromham City 1-3 Aigburth Athletic
Casuals Osteria 3-0 Sandwell Rangers
Caversham 1-1 Foxchester Rovers
CFF Monthuez 3-5 Ashton Olympic
Neathill 2-2 Caledon Simpson
Royal Emberton 0-0 Dereapolis City
Secklow 0-1 Stanton Town
SUNDAY
Mercia Bromham 0-0 Emberton Reds
Ousevale Borough 1-2 Avidia United

MATCHDAY 14
Stanton haven't had the most convincing season so far - what they really need is a statement win.

checks results

Yup, that'll do it. In fact, with Caledon and Foxchester both held, the Dockers move up to third on goal difference.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 2-4 Ousevale Borough
Ashton Olympic 3-1 Neathill
Avidia United 1-0 Secklow
Dereapolis City 0-0 Bromham City
Emberton Hibernians 2-6 Mercia Bromham
Foxchester Rovers 1-1 Casuals Osteria
Royal Emberton 2-0 Caversham
Sandwell Rangers 2-3 CFF Monthuez
SUNDAY
Caledon Simpson 2-2 Emberton Reds
Stanton Town 8-0 Beckton Supermarine

MATCHDAY 15
The season seems to have a pattern forming, namely that Mercia keep winning, and everybody else falling over themselves trying to catch them. This time it's Ashton tripping over at the Isserson, allowing the Midlanders to go nine points clear. Conversely, just three points separate third placed Stanton from Caledon in seventh. The hunt for Challengers' Cup spots could be very interesting this season.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 1-1 Avidia United
Bromham City 2-1 Caversham
Casuals Osteria 0-2 Royal Emberton
CFF Monthuez 0-1 Foxchester Rovers
Emberton Hibernians 0-1 Stanton Town
Emberton Reds 3-1 Ashton Olympic
Ousevale Borough 5-2 Dereapolis City
Secklow 2-0 Aigburth Athletic
SUNDAY
Mercia Bromham 3-0 Caledon Simpson
Neathill 2-1 Sandwell Rangers

MATCHDAY 16
Well, so much for that pattern. Stanton entertain the league leaders at the Harbour Stadium, and a Reece Klaasen masterclass causes the division's last undefeated record to be smashed to bits and dumped into the bin.

The good news for Mercia is that Ashton lost, so their lead only shrinks by one point. The bad news is that it's now Stanton leading the chasing pack...though Foxchester are still throwing the kitchen sink at the league, behind the Dockers only on goal difference.

Elsewhere, Casuals took a break from the mediocrity that has been their season so far to smash eight past Bromham City.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 1-1 Beckton Supermarine
Avidia United 2-1 Emberton Hibernians
Bromham City 0-8 Casuals Osteria
Caversham 0-4 Ousevale Borough
Dereapolis City 1-2 Secklow
Foxchester Rovers 1-0 Neathill
Royal Emberton 2-1 CFF Monthuez
Sandwell Rangers 2-0 Emberton Reds
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 1-2 Caledon Simpson
Stanton Town 4-1 Mercia Bromham

MATCHDAY 17
Foxchester's Cinderella season continues with a comeback win over Emberton Reds, Callum Wilson scoring twice in the last fifteen minutes to secure the three points. With Mercia dropping points at home to Ashton, the Foxes are somehow six points off top spot.

This would be a perfect chance for Stanton to press home their claim for top spot on the Sunday. Unfortunately for them, Avidia were out for blood, and the Dockers instead find themselves back in fourth, with only goal difference separating them, Avidia, Ashton, and Caledon. Fun times.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 3-0 Dereapolis City
Caledon Simpson 1-0 Sandwell Rangers
CFF Monthuez 2-0 Bromham City
Emberton Hibernians 1-1 Aigburth Athletic
Emberton Reds 2-3 Foxchester Rovers
Mercia Bromham 1-1 Ashton Olympic
Neathill 1-2 Royal Emberton
Secklow 2-3 Caversham
SUNDAY
Ousevale Borough 0-1 Casuals Osteria
Stanton Town 1-4 Avidia United

MATCHDAY 18
Foxchester's win over Caledon at the Unity puts the pressure on Mercia ahead of their trip to the Second City. With the Royals also playing on Sunday, and Stanton beating Aigburth (albeit not the most convincing of wins), all eyes turn on the fight at the top.

Enter the Eagles with a massive spanner in their beak. The match was a classic, with Mercia and United sharing nine goals, but with the home side coming out on top, Mercia's lead is eroded to just three points.

Over Foxchester bloody Rovers.

The world has officially gone off the rails.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 0-1 Stanton Town
Bromham City 1-1 Neathill
Casuals Osteria 0-1 Secklow
Caversham 0-0 Beckton Supermarine
Dereapolis City 0-1 Emberton Hibernians
Foxchester Rovers 3-1 Caledon Simpson
Ousevale Borough 6-4 CFF Monthuez
Sandwell Rangers 0-4 Ashton Olympic
SUNDAY
Avidia United 5-4 Mercia Bromham
Royal Emberton 3-0 Emberton Reds

KFA CUP - ROUND THREE
St Peters' reward for knocking Stanton out of the cup is a trip to the Southern Arena. That's pretty much where the generosity ended, though, as Ousevale took their Prem frustrations out on the Division Two side by hitting them for nine. Faversham, the other big shockers from Round Two, fared little better, as their bus was comprehensively destroyed by Beckton. That's not to say there weren't any shocks, though. Just ask Casuals, beaten two-nil - at home - by Oustia.

Elsewhere, Mercia's dreams of a double are over, beaten at the Rutian Gardens, whilst Foxchester's are still on after they breezed past Beldon. The Foxes might just be a disguised Funniest Outcome FC.

MATCHDAY 19
Avidia United (fifth), two. Aigburth Athletic (bottom with one win all season), four.

And now you know the sound of Eagles choking.

At the top, Mercia made light work of struggling Sandwell, Foxchester continue to flip the middle finger at expectations with a win over Ashton, and Ousevale decide to punish Neathill for...reasons. Just another weekend in the Prem.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 1-2 Foxchester Rovers
Avidia United 2-4 Aigburth Athletic
Emberton Hibernians 2-0 Caversham
Emberton Reds 3-1 Bromham City
Mercia Bromham 5-0 Sandwell Rangers
Neathill 1-9 Ousevale Borough
Secklow 2-0 CFF Monthuez
Stanton Town 3-1 Dereapolis City
SUNDAY
Beckton Supermarine 1-3 Casuals Osteria
Caledon Simpson 4-0 Royal Emberton

Table after MD19:

Pos Team                      P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Mercia Bromham           19  14  3   2  51  18  +33  45
  2 Foxchester Rovers        19  13  3   3  32  19  +13  42
  3 Stanton Town             19  12  3   4  41  18  +23  39
  4 Royal Emberton           19  12  2   5  35  23  +12  38
  5 Avidia United            19  11  3   5  44  28  +16  36
  6 Ashton Olympic           19  11  3   5  38  22  +16  36
  7 Caledon Simpson          19  10  6   3  31  18  +13  36
  8 Casuals Osteria          19   9  4   6  36  22  +14  31
  9 Ousevale Borough         19   9  1   9  46  35  +11  28
 10 Emberton Hibernians      19   7  6   6  25  23   +2  27
 11 Emberton Reds            19   6  7   6  31  27   +4  25
 12 CFF Monthuez             19   7  3   9  28  34   -6  24
 13 Secklow                  19   7  2  10  21  28   -7  23
 14 Bromham City             19   6  3  10  21  34  -13  21
 15 Beckton Supermarine      19   4  7   8  16  34  -18  19
 16 Caversham                19   3  5  11  16  34  -18  14
 17 Sandwell Rangers         19   4  2  13  15  42  -27  14
 18 Aigburth Athletic        19   2  6  11  17  29  -12  12
 19 Neathill                 19   2  5  12  20  47  -27  11
 20 Dereapolis City          19   3  2  14  12  41  -29  11

by **Krytenia** » Wed Apr 10, 2024 2:53 am

SEASON XXV - PART FOUR

MATCHDAY 20
Aigburth, you cheeky wossnames. The Cormorants have struggled all season, and with Mercia coming to town, the potential for a proper tonking was very real. Nobody, though, had told Aigburth that. A valiant performance, refusing to be cowed by the leaders, was rewarded with a scrappy stoppage-time equaliser from Christopher Merrygold after the visitors failed to clear their lines from a corner. Foxchester, too, failed to notch up the full three points, held at home to Sandwell, and that gave Stanton a chance to put pressure on the top two, beating Caversham one-nil despite having Michael Houseman sent off halfway through the first half.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bromham City 2-0 Caledon Simpson
Casuals Osteria 2-2 Emberton Hibernians
CFF Monthuez 0-1 Beckton Supermarine
Dereapolis City 0-5 Avidia United
Foxchester Rovers 1-1 Sandwell Rangers
Ousevale Borough 2-1 Emberton Reds
Royal Emberton 0-3 Ashton Olympic
Secklow 2-0 Neathill
SUNDAY
Aigburth Athletic 3-3 Mercia Bromham
Caversham 0-1 Stanton Town

MATCHDAY 21
With the top three all playing on Sunday, the focus on Saturday was on the two-from-five battle to avoid relegation. Dereapolis started the day bottom of the pile, but a thumping win over fellow strugglers Aigburth makes their outlook a little brighter. They rise to eighteenth, above not only the Cormorants but also Neathill, who sink to the bottom after failing to launch against Beckton. Caversham's draw against Avidia was unexpected, and the point may prove crucial if they can make the most of more winnable games, whilst Sandwell's defeat to the Royals means they're now looking a little more worriedly over their shoulders.

Sunday opened with Stanton putting down a marker for their title credentials, a late Ryan Archer goal for Casuals not being enough to prevent the Dockers claiming all three points. This was followed by the weekend's big game, as the top two met at the Cygnus. Foxchester took an early lead, Regemaine D'Eberrou with a superb strike from just outside the box, but a Ben Stewart penalty restored parity before the break. Mercia then took the lead, Stefanie Martini's inswinging cross evading everyone before nestling inside the near post, but as the hosts pressed for a game-killing third, the Foxes caught them on the break, Russell Banks taking advantage to slot home the equaliser. That's how it stayed, meaning that it's now Stanton in second place, a mere two points behind Mercia.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 1-4 Dereapolis City
Ashton Olympic 4-1 Bromham City
Avidia United 1-1 Caversham
Beckton Supermarine 2-0 Neathill
Caledon Simpson 2-1 Ousevale Borough
Emberton Hibernians 2-1 CFF Monthuez
Emberton Reds 4-2 Secklow
Sandwell Rangers 0-2 Royal Emberton
SUNDAY
Mercia Bromham 2-2 Foxchester Rovers
Stanton Town 2-1 Casuals Osteria

MATCHDAY 22
This time last season, the talk was of Foxchester still probably going down despite an exhilarating five-four win over local rivals Ousevale. I think we can safely say they're stating up this season, though defeat to Royal Emberton does drop them to fourth place.

Somewhat more surprising was Mercia failing to finish off the Derries. With Stanton demolishing Monthuez, it means the Dockers are now level on points with the league leaders.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 1-1 Emberton Reds
Bromham City 1-0 Sandwell Rangers
Caversham 2-0 Aigburth Athletic
CFF Monthuez 0-5 Stanton Town
Dereapolis City 1-1 Mercia Bromham
Neathill 1-0 Emberton Hibernians
Ousevale Borough 2-2 Ashton Olympic
Secklow 3-1 Caledon Simpson
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 1-1 Avidia United
Royal Emberton 3-1 Foxchester Rovers

MATCHDAY 23
Neathill may be outclassed often in this division, they may be second-bottom, and they may be bracingg themselves for the drop. That said, they'll be damned if they're going to make things easy for Stanton. The Dockers just could not crack the green and yellow code, and a one-all draw at home was not the statement they were looking for, especially with Foxchester and Ashton both winning to gain some ground on them.

It meant that Sunday's game between leaders Mercia and third placed Royal Emberton had that extra bit of spice. What it lacked, though, was a winner, meaning no change in the top two and a chasing pack breathing ever more heavily down their necks.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 1-1 Casuals Osteria
Ashton Olympic 2-0 Secklow
Avidia United 2-0 CFF Monthuez
Caledon Simpson 0-1 Beckton Supermarine
Dereapolis City 0-3 Caversham
Foxchester Rovers 2-0 Bromham City
Sandwell Rangers 0-0 Ousevale Borough
Stanton Town 1-1 Neathill
SUNDAY
Emberton Hibernians 1-0 Emberton Reds
Mercia Bromham 1-1 Royal Emberton

MATCHDAY 24
Caversham nil, Mercia Bromham nine. I think it's safe to say the Midlanders want the title. They're still being made to work for it though, what with Stanton's win at the Isserson.

Further down, Foxchester's chastening defeat in the Oss Valley derby, combined with wins for Ashton, Royals, and Avidia, mean they drop all the way to sixth place.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 1-4 Ashton Olympic
Bromham City 0-2 Royal Emberton
Casuals Osteria 4-0 Dereapolis City
Caversham 0-9 Mercia Bromham
CFF Monthuez 0-0 Aigburth Athletic
Emberton Reds 1-2 Stanton Town
Neathill 0-4 Avidia United
Secklow 1-0 Sandwell Rangers
SUNDAY
Emberton Hibernians 2-0 Caledon Simpson
Ousevale Borough 5-2 Foxchester Rovers

KFA CUP - ROUND FOUR
Milditch of Division Three have snuck under the radar in this year's competition, but they'll be in the quarter finals after beating Oustia, a side two divisions above them. They're also the last team standing from outside the Prem in the competition. Zoderby - also of the fourth tier - were outclassed by Beckton, Quinton fell at the hands of high-flying Foxchester, Westleigh couldn't quite match up to Dereapolis, and whilst New Cefn took Ashton to extra time, it proved thirty minutes too far.

Ousevale, Avidia United, and Royal Emberton complete the octet, taking out Caledon, Emberton Reds, and Neathill respectively.

Zoderby United 0-3 Beckton Supermarine
Milditch 2-1 Oustia
Quinton City 1-3 Foxchester Rovers
Caledon Simpson 1-3 Ousevale Borough
Dereapolis City 1-0 Westleigh Athletic
Ashton Olympic 0-0 New Cefn Albion (1-0 AET)
Emberton Reds 0-2 Avidia United
Royal Emberton 3-0 Neathill

MATCHDAY 25
Fresh from putting Caversham to the sword, Mercia's next demolition job is going nap against their cross-city rivals. Yes, Stanton also won, but they really need the Midlanders to drop points considering the goal difference chasm opening up between the two sides.

Behind them, Avidia slip up in the pack, with wins for Ashton, Royals, and Foxchester, the latter hitting five of their own against mid-table Secklow.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 1-1 Neathill
Ashton Olympic 1-0 Emberton Hibernians
Avidia United 2-3 Emberton Reds
Caversham 2-2 Casuals Osteria
Dereapolis City 2-0 CFF Monthuez
Foxchester Rovers 5-0 Secklow
Sandwell Rangers 1-0 Beckton Supermarine
Stanton Town 1-0 Caledon Simpson
SUNDAY
Mercia Bromham 5-0 Bromham City
Royal Emberton 2-1 Ousevale Borough

MATCHDAY 26
After a nine-nil and a five-nil, a four-nil wouldn't be too much of a disappointment for Mercia...except for one small detail; it's the team from Bromham with the nil. Casuals may not be in the title race, but that win must have been satisfying as all hell.

Stanton couldn't take full advantage, drawing one-all with third placed Ashton, but they are now a point clear at the top of the table. With Foxchester also winning, and the Royals' draw at least keeping them into the hunt, the run-in looks proper tasty.

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 0-2 Foxchester Rovers
Caledon Simpson 0-1 Avidia United
CFF Monthuez 1-4 Caversham
Emberton Hibernians 3-2 Sandwell Rangers
Emberton Reds 1-2 Aigburth Athletic
Neathill 0-1 Dereapolis City
Ousevale Borough 4-1 Bromham City
Secklow 2-2 Royal Emberton
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 4-0 Mercia Bromham
Stanton Town 1-1 Ashton Olympic

Table after MD26:

Pos Team                      P   W  D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Stanton Town             26  17  5   4  54  22  +32  56
  2 Mercia Bromham           26  16  7   3  72  29  +43  55
  3 Ashton Olympic           26  16  5   5  55  27  +28  53
  4 Foxchester Rovers        26  16  5   5  47  30  +17  53
  5 Royal Emberton           26  16  4   6  47  31  +16  52
  6 Avidia United            26  15  5   6  60  33  +27  50
  7 Casuals Osteria          26  11  8   7  51  30  +21  41
  8 Emberton Hibernians      26  11  7   8  35  30   +5  40
  9 Ousevale Borough         26  12  3  11  61  45  +16  39
 10 Caledon Simpson          26  11  6   9  34  29   +5  39
 11 Secklow                  26  10  3  13  31  42  -11  33
 12 Emberton Reds            26   8  8  10  42  39   +3  32
 13 Beckton Supermarine      26   7  8  11  22  42  -20  29
 14 Bromham City             26   8  3  15  26  51  -25  27
 15 CFF Monthuez             26   7  4  15  30  50  -20  25
 16 Caversham                26   6  7  13  28  48  -20  25
 17 Dereapolis City          26   6  3  17  20  55  -35  21
 18 Aigburth Athletic        26   3 10  13  25  41  -16  19
 19 Sandwell Rangers         26   5  4  17  19  50  -31  19
 20 Neathill                 26   3  7  16  23  58  -35  16

by **Krytenia** » Tue Apr 16, 2024 4:15 am

SEASON XXV - PART FIVE

MATCHDAY 27
Sandwell may be deep in the relegation mire, but they'll be damned if they're going down without a fight. Stanton came to South Road and were given hell for ninety minutes in a fiery encounter, with Reese Klaasen eventually proving the difference with a scrappy late winner.

Over to the chasing pack, then. Royal Emberton kept themselves in the hunt on Saturday with a hard-fought win over Beckton, whilst Foxchester slipped up with a draw at the Unity. Sunday, meanwhile, saw Avidia rekindle their title chase with a win over an Ashton side that started the weekend in third and finished it in sixth.

And so, to the Mercian Classic at the Cygnus. Mercia are desperate to win the title, whilst Ousevale are out of that battle...but if anyone's going to spoil the party for the hosts, it's the Tigers. So it proved, with Richard Birmingham and Ethan Bryant firing the visitors into a two-nil first half lead. Substitute Daryl Rivers' late goal for the Midlanders proved only a consolation, and it means Stanton are now four points clear at the top...but only six ahead of sixth place.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 1-2 Caledon Simpson
Bromham City 1-0 Secklow
Casuals Osteria 3-1 CFF Monthuez
Caversham 1-0 Neathill
Dereapolis City 5-2 Emberton Reds
Foxchester Rovers 2-2 Emberton Hibernians
Royal Emberton 2-1 Beckton Supermarine
Sandwell Rangers 2-3 Stanton Town
SUNDAY
Avidia United 3-1 Ashton Olympic
Mercia Bromham 1-2 Ousevale Borough

MATCHDAY 28
With three of the top four playing on Sunday, all eyes were on second-placed Mercia Bromham to see if they could recover from their defeat against their rivals last week.

The answer: no. No they could not. Despite having the lion's share of the chances away to Monthuez, the home side managed a smash-and-grab raid on the Midlanders courtesy of Choetrie Denlans' opportunistic strike. With Avidia held by a doughty Sandwell side, Ashton took full advantage, thumping Aigburth to go second overnight.

As it turned out, that's where they'd finish the weekend. Royal Emberton were taken down by cross-city rivals Hibs, whilst a game of few chances at the Harbour Stadium saw a Charlie Rice thunderbolt sink a spirited Foxchester side that extended the Dockers' lead at the top to six points.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 5-0 Aigburth Athletic
Avidia United 2-2 Sandwell Rangers
Beckton Supermarine 0-0 Bromham City
Caledon Simpson 1-1 Dereapolis City
CFF Monthuez 1-0 Mercia Bromham
Emberton Reds 1-1 Caversham
Neathill 0-5 Casuals Osteria
Secklow 2-1 Ousevale Borough
SUNDAY
Emberton Hibernians 2-0 Royal Emberton
Stanton Town 1-0 Foxchester Rovers

MATCHDAY 29
Ashton may be a bit of a sneak in the title race in recent weeks, but they are at least making a good fist of it. Dereapolis had few answers in the West Mercian derby, and with Stanton held by fellow title-chasers Royal Emberton at Oxley Park, the Bears are catching up at the top.

At the bottom, meanwhile, Sandwell did their survival hopes a big favour with a hard-fought win over Aigburth. They still need the likes of Derry, Monthuez, Caversham, or Beckton to drop some more points though.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 1-2 Sandwell Rangers
Bromham City 0-4 Emberton Hibernians
Casuals Osteria 2-2 Emberton Reds
Caversham 3-1 Caledon Simpson
CFF Monthuez 0-2 Neathill
Foxchester Rovers 0-0 Avidia United
Mercia Bromham 3-1 Secklow
Ousevale Borough 5-0 Beckton Supermarine
SUNDAY
Dereapolis City 1-3 Ashton Olympic
Royal Emberton 1-1 Stanton Town

MATCHDAY 30
Drawing with Royal Emberton? Acceptable. Drawing with Bromham City? Less so. Of course, the Navies' happiness at getting a point off the leaders will be tempered by the fact the result gives Mercia a leg up in their title chase - even if they did make hard work of beating bottom side Neathill.

At the bottom, meanwhile, Sandwell are out of the relegation zone after Max Amaro's penalty sealed three points against Dereapolis, who take their place in the bottom three.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 0-2 Foxchester Rovers
Ashton Olympic 1-2 Caversham
Beckton Supermarine 1-0 Secklow
Caledon Simpson 2-3 Casuals Osteria
Emberton Hibernians 0-3 Ousevale Borough
Emberton Reds 1-2 CFF Monthuez
Neathill 1-2 Mercia Bromham
Stanton Town 1-1 Bromham City
SUNDAY
Avidia United 0-0 Royal Emberton
Sandwell Rangers 2-1 Dereapolis City

KFA CUP - QUARTER-FINALS
Alas, Milditch, we hardly knew ye. The last of the non-Prem teams prove no match for an Ashton side fighting hard on two fronts, going down four-nil. Cup specialists Beckton, meanwhile, take down a slumping Dereapolis side, and Royal Emberton end Avidia United's hopes of lifing the cup.

The tie of the round, though, is the Oss Valley derby at the Unity. Regemaine D'Eberrou is already a hero in Foxchester; scoring the winner to send the Foxes into the last four only cements that status.

Foxchester Rovers 1-0 Ousevale Borough
Ashton Olympic 4-0 Milditch
Dereapolis City 1-2 Beckton Supermarine
Avidia United 1-2 Royal Emberton

MATCHDAY 31
Mercia drop the ball in the title race, losing to Beckton. It allows Foxchester to draw level on points with them, and gives Stanton a free hit in the title race.

At least, it would have been a free hit, if it weren't for Ousevale deciding they wanted to take out their frustrations from their midweek elimination from the cup on the leaders. Congratulations, Tigers, you just put both of your rivals back in the title hunt.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bromham City 1-1 Avidia United
Caversham 0-1 Sandwell Rangers
CFF Monthuez 1-1 Caledon Simpson
Dereapolis City 1-3 Foxchester Rovers
Mercia Bromham 0-1 Beckton Supermarine
Neathill 1-1 Emberton Reds
Royal Emberton 4-1 Aigburth Athletic
Secklow 2-3 Emberton Hibernians
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 2-2 Ashton Olympic
Ousevale Borough 4-1 Stanton Town

MATCHDAY 32
It's official: Caledon Simpson's reign as champions has ended. Stanton's win over Secklow keeps them top, and guarantees that the Lions can no longer mathematically catch them. Of course, with Caley in tenth, this is merely a formality.

Meanwhile, Emberton Reds and choking go hand in hand; after a poor season, though, the Reds decide to be the ones applying the choke. Their draw with Mercia drops the visitors to fourth, meaning it's now Foxchester clear in second spot, a point ahead of Royal Emberton, and still on for the double. Whatever's in the water at the Unity, I want some.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 1-2 Bromham City
Ashton Olympic 0-0 CFF Monthuez
Caledon Simpson 6-3 Neathill
Dereapolis City 0-1 Royal Emberton
Emberton Hibernians 0-1 Beckton Supermarine
Foxchester Rovers 3-1 Caversham
Sandwell Rangers 1-5 Casuals Osteria
Stanton Town 3-1 Secklow
SUNDAY
Avidia United 4-1 Ousevale Borough
Emberton Reds 1-1 Mercia Bromham

Table after MD32:

Pos Team                      P   W   D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Stanton Town             32  20   7   5  64  31  +33  67
  2 Foxchester Rovers        32  19   7   6  57  35  +22  64
  3 Royal Emberton           32  19   6   7  55  36  +19  63
  4 Mercia Bromham           32  18   8   6  79  36  +43  62
  5 Ashton Olympic           32  18   7   7  67  35  +32  61
  6 Avidia United            32  17   9   6  70  38  +32  60
  7 Casuals Osteria          32  15  10   7  71  38  +33  55
  8 Ousevale Borough         32  16   3  13  77  53  +24  51
  9 Emberton Hibernians      32  14   8  10  46  38   +8  50
 10 Caledon Simpson          32  13   8  11  47  41   +6  47
 11 Beckton Supermarine      32  10   9  13  26  49  -23  39
 12 Emberton Reds            32   8  12  12  50  51   -1  36
 13 Secklow                  32  11   3  18  37  54  -17  36
 14 Bromham City             32  10   6  16  31  58  -27  36
 15 Caversham                32   9   8  15  36  55  -19  35
 16 CFF Monthuez             32   9   6  17  35  57  -22  33
 17 Sandwell Rangers         32   8   5  19  29  62  -33  29
 18 Dereapolis City          32   7   4  21  29  67  -38  25
 19 Neathill                 32   4   8  20  30  73  -43  20
 20 Aigburth Athletic        32   3  10  19  29  58  -29  19

by **Krytenia** » Tue Apr 16, 2024 6:57 am

SEASON XXV - PART SIX

MATCHDAY 33
It's safe to say Mercia are back on form. Hibs came to town and let with their tails between their legs, as the Midlanders put eight past the visitors as they attempt to apply the pressure on the top two. Fair play to Foxchester and Stanton, though, as neither flinched. Stanton came out quite comfortably on top in the battle of the port cities at Orange Street, whilst the Foxes' inexplicable title chase continues as they took all three points in a tense affair against Casuals.

At the other end, Sandwell's humbling defeat at the hands of Monthuez means they have Derry breathing down their necks once more.

Results:
SATURDAY
Bromham City 0-1 Dereapolis City
Casuals Osteria 0-1 Foxchester Rovers
Caversham 2-2 Royal Emberton
Emberton Reds 1-2 Caledon Simpson
Mercia Bromham 8-1 Emberton Hibernians
Neathill 0-3 Ashton Olympic
Ousevale Borough 5-1 Aigburth Athletic
Secklow 0-2 Avidia United
SUNDAY
Beckton Supermarine 0-3 Stanton Town
CFF Monthuez 5-1 Sandwell Rangers

MATCHDAY 34
Given that they lost last week away to a title challenger, you'd have forgiven Hibs for dreading their trip to the Harbour Stadium. You'd also have been very, very wrong. Gennaro Christie proved the match winner, as the visitors threw a massive spanner in Stanton's title dreams.

Further not helping were wins for Foxchester, Mercia, and Royal Emberton, the latter of which squeezed past Casuals in a nine-goal thriller. With Avidia winning as well, the title looks to be up to any one of five at this point.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 0-1 Secklow
Ashton Olympic 0-1 Emberton Reds
Avidia United 3-1 Beckton Supermarine
Caversham 1-2 Bromham City
Dereapolis City 2-2 Ousevale Borough
Foxchester Rovers 3-0 CFF Monthuez
Royal Emberton 5-4 Casuals Osteria
Sandwell Rangers 1-2 Neathill
SUNDAY
Caledon Simpson 1-2 Mercia Bromham
Stanton Town 0-1 Emberton Hibernians

MATCHDAY 35
Well, there go the Cormorants. Too many draws that could have been wins end up costing Aigburth, and defeat to Beckton seals their fate with three games to go.

At the top, meanwhile, Mercia get their title chase well and truly back on track as they beat Stanton at the Cygnus. All this means that Foxchester, courtesy of a win over relegation-threatened Neathill, go top with three games to go.

They couldn't...right?

Results:
SATURDAY
Beckton Supermarine 2-0 Aigburth Athletic - Aigburth Athletic are relegated
Caledon Simpson 0-2 Ashton Olympic
Casuals Osteria 2-1 Bromham City
CFF Monthuez 1-0 Royal Emberton
Emberton Hibernians 0-3 Avidia United
Emberton Reds 2-1 Sandwell Rangers
Ousevale Borough 2-4 Caversham
Secklow 3-3 Dereapolis City
SUNDAY
Mercia Bromham 2-0 Stanton Town
Neathill 0-2 Foxchester Rovers

MATCHDAY 36
Well, at least the Foxes can say they made it to the mountaintop. Their stay as league leaders is a brief one, as Emberton Reds bring them crashing down to earth. Instead, it's Mercia at the summit, as they beat Ashton to go a point clear.

Stanton's title chances, meanwhile, were dealt a hammer blow by one of their own. Des Edwards' shanked attempt at a clearance left Danté Meaden with no chance, and that own goal gave Avidia the points they needed to go above the Dockers and into third.

Finally, it's farewell to Neathill, as their defeat to the Royals officially condemns them to Division One.

Results:
SATURDAY
Aigburth Athletic 3-2 Emberton Hibernians
Ashton Olympic 2-3 Mercia Bromham
Bromham City 0-1 CFF Monthuez
Casuals Osteria 1-4 Ousevale Borough
Caversham 0-2 Secklow
Dereapolis City 1-0 Beckton Supermarine
Royal Emberton 3-0 Neathill - Neathill are relegated
Sandwell Rangers 4-3 Caledon Simpson
SUNDAY
Avidia United 1-0 Stanton Town
Foxchester Rovers 2-4 Emberton Reds

KFA CUP - SEMI-FINALS
Royal Emberton are in their second KFA final in a row, taking down a Foxchester side still riding the highs of this season so far. Their opponents this time around will be Ashton, looking to salvage their season with a trophy, and thumping Beckton in the process.

Results:
Foxchester Rovers 1-2 Royal Emberton (@ Harbour Stadium, Stanton)
Beckton Supermarine 0-4 Ashton Olympic (@ Draconium Arena, Caversham)

MATCHDAY 37
The penultimate matchday - a perfect time for the league leaders to take on third place. With Foxchester losing to Caledon the previous day, Mercia could seal the title if they beat Avidia.

The Eagles, though, had other plans. They were ruthless in their demolition of Mercia at the Cygnus, in the process not only going top, but throwing the title race wide open. Stanton's win keeps them in the hunt, whilst Royal Emberton kept their chances alive by grinding their cross-city rivals into a fine paste.

At the bottom, meanwhile, Dereapolis could have done without getting marmalised by Hibs; Sandwell's defeat, though, means they start the final day a point above the drop zone, albeit with their goal difference now behind Rangers'.

Results:
SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 2-1 Sandwell Rangers
Beckton Supermarine 1-1 Caversham
Caledon Simpson 3-1 Foxchester Rovers
CFF Monthuez 1-1 Ousevale Borough
Emberton Hibernians 6-1 Dereapolis City
Neathill 0-0 Bromham City
Secklow 0-2 Casuals Osteria
Stanton Town 3-0 Aigburth Athletic
SUNDAY
Emberton Reds 0-7 Royal Emberton
Mercia Bromham 0-3 Avidia United

Table after MD37:

Pos Team                      P   W   D   L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Avidia United            37  22   9   6  82  39  +43  75
  2 Mercia Bromham           37  22   8   7  94  43  +51  74
  3 Stanton Town             37  22   7   8  70  35  +35  73
  4 Royal Emberton           37  22   7   8  72  43  +29  73
  5 Foxchester Rovers        37  22   7   8  66  42  +24  73
  6 Ashton Olympic           37  21   7   9  76  40  +36  70
  7 Casuals Osteria          37  17  10  10  80  49  +31  61
  8 Ousevale Borough         37  18   5  14  91  62  +29  59
  9 Emberton Hibernians      37  16   8  13  56  53   +3  56
 10 Caledon Simpson          37  15   8  14  56  51   +5  53
 11 Emberton Reds            37  11  12  14  58  63   -5  45
 12 Secklow                  37  13   4  20  43  61  -18  43
 13 CFF Monthuez             37  12   7  18  43  62  -19  43
 14 Beckton Supermarine      37  11  10  16  30  57  -27  43
 15 Caversham                37  10  10  17  44  64  -20  40
 16 Bromham City             37  11   7  19  34  63  -29  40
 17 Dereapolis City          37   9   6  22  37  78  -41  33
 18 Sandwell Rangers         37   9   5  23  37  76  -39  32
 19 Neathill                 37   5   9  23  32  82  -50  24  R
 20 Aigburth Athletic        37   4  10  23  33  71  -38  22  R

by **Krytenia** » Sun Apr 28, 2024 2:47 pm

SEASON XXV - THE FINALE

Tom Contares reports

15:00 - Welcome to KBS Sport's live feed of the final day of the Premier Division season, and a potential five-way tussle for the Gabriel Kennedy Trophy. Avidia United go into this afternoon with a one-point lead over Mercia Bromham, with three teams only one further point behind. If the Eagles slip up, and Mercia fail to win, then Stanton Town, Royal Emberton, and surprise package Foxchester Rovers will all be looking to steal the crown.

15:03 - At the other end of the table, meanwhile, it's a straight fight to avoid the drop between Dereapolis City and Sandwell Rangers. Derry are a point clear going into today's fixtures, but Sandwell have the better goal difference, so the boys in purple can't afford to slip up. Just to make life interesting, both sides are at home to teams in the title race.

15:05 - With five teams vying for the title, the leaders playing in the far west, and the matches involving the major players spread around the country, the Gabriel Kennedy Trophy is sat at headquarters. This means it'll only get given out tonight if Royals win the title at home to, ironically, the outgoing champions.

15:07 - Teamsheet time! We begin at ArenaWest, where the leaders will take the title against already-relegated Aigburth with a win. Avidia are going aggressive, with Emmanuel Trevorrow dropping to the bench in favour of an extra forward in the form of Carlos Perez. The home side, meanwhile, are still without centre-back Connor Hockenhull after he tore his hamstring against Hibs. Jordan Ritoro has done a decent job as cover, and he starts again today. He'll partner James Belouan at the back, who's expected to leave in the summer.

15:11 - Onto the first of our title versus survival matches, as second placed Mercia face off against a Sandwell side that start the match in the bottom three. Rangers have nothing to lose here, and will play a 4-3-3 with striker James Lacata coming in for defensive midfielder Brandon Cornell. It's a case of win or fall spectacularly trying. For Mercia, meanwhile, there's two changes. The first is enforced, as Stefanie Martini is ruled out after pulling up in training earlier in the week; the experienced Nathan Chilcott takes her place in the side. The second, meanwhile, is a return to the side for Eddie Culverhouse, with Jonathan Byrd dropping to the bench to make way. Claudia Grayson, meanwhile, will be hoping to add to her twenty-eight goals for the season.

15:16 - Our other game with ramifications at both ends of the table takes place in the south-west, with Dereapolis welcoming Stanton to the County Ground. Russell Sparwasser is the biggest absence for Derry following his red card against Hibs last week; he'll be replaced by teenager Craig Brewster. James Philpott is also out up front, mainly because the home side is going five at the back. Joe Thompson comes in as an extra centre-back in his stead. For Stanton, meanwhile, all eyes are on Reece Klaasen, two goals ahead of Grayson and one ahead of Richard Birmingham in the race for the Silver Boot. He leads the line today, with Charlie Rice passing a fitness test this morning to start in a full-strength side.

15:20 - Next up are the champions from the previous two seasons. Caledon Simpson will be ceding their title at the end of the afternoon – the only question remaining being who they surrender it to. Could it be Royal Emberton, the team they replaced as O-League winners? It's possible...if other results go their way as well. First job, though, is to secure the three points at Oxley Park, and to that end, they're fielding a full-strength side. This does mean Zack Friedrichs dropping to the bench, as exciting young striker Enrique Garcia is back to full fitness. For Caledon, Carson Kenzie is out with a calf strain, so in comes Barry Travers in midfield.

15:25 - This time last season, Foxchester were hoping to pull off an unlikely escape from the relegation zone. Not only did they succeed, but they start the day fifth in the table and still mathematically in with a chance of the title. A lot of that has been down to the heroics of half-forward Regemaine D'Eberrou and goalkeeper James Bogdanovic, so it's no surprise that both start. Callum Wilson, however, drops to the bench after a couple of tired performances; he's replaced by Eli Adams. Opponents Ashton can overtake the Foxes with a win today, but their most reliable chance of getting into the IFCF competitions is in next week's cup final, which explains why Wang Xianliang, Indigo Taylor, and Stephen Lorimer all drop to the bench. Benjamin Fox, Jack Planter, and Aaron Maguire step up to the first eleven in their respective places.

15:31 - A quick look around the five “playing for pride” games starts at the Southern Arena. Neathill are the visitors, and will want to make amends for the Tigers thrashing them nine-one in the reverse fixture. Veteran striker Abel Campos is joining the coaching staff at season's end, and he's not only given a start for his swansong, he's been named captain. Ousevale, meanwhile, are blooding some youngsters, with George Warren making only his third start at the back alongside Julian Sackholme, and Danny Ross debuting in central midfield at the tender age of sixteen. Renee McKenzie and Ethan Bryant are the players making way.

15:35 - A pair of unchanged sides have been announced for Monthuez versus Secklow, with both sides just happy to have a quiet afternoon well clear of the bottom three.

15:37 - Pride is definitely on the table at Coalfields as Casuals take on local rivals Beckton. The Miners' season never really got going, and you feel there are players in the side with their places in danger. Marcus Karlsen is not one of those players, and the Vanorian will be hoping to fill his boots this afternoon. He could be helped by an enforced change at the back for the Mariners, as Mo Hadji is ruled out with a groin strain. Vince Leeming deputises today.

15:41 - Our last two matches involve sides from the capital, with Bromham City hosting Emberton Reds and Caversham entertaining Emberton Hibernians. Simon Watts is preferred to Darragh Gilsenan for Hibs as they play musical chairs in midfield, whilst Marcus Robson gets a runout for the Navies in what is likely to be his last game for the club. Jean-Jacques Friu will be on the bench for this one. Otherwise, it's as you were from last week's sides.

15:48 - Foxchester have learned their lesson from last season, with a much larger fan park taking up a large section of Azeria Park to the west of the main city centre. And yet, they've still managed to fill it to capacity. I'm pretty sure that the Foxes didn't realise they had that many fans.

15:51 - A few miles up the River Oss from Foxchester, meanwhile, Ousevale fans have decided to protest the team's travails by unfurling a rather large banner saying “SPENCERS OUT – SACK THE BOARD”. Ten argentals say that Shaun Downey still ends up carrying the can at the end of the season.

15:56 - Four minutes to kickoff. Please ensure your safety belt is fastened and keep your arms and legs inside the car.

16:00 - KICKOFF
The clock strikes four...time to find out who's taking the title this season. Here we go!

16:01 - GOAL. MON 0-1 SEC (M Sampson)
Well, so much for a quiet afternoon in the mountains. Sylvain Cousin's pass is too casual, and Murray Sampson says “thank you very much”, pouncing on the loose ball and firing past a helpless Alain Nouble. Time on the clock? Twenty-six seconds.

16:04 – GOAL. OUS 1-0 NEA (R Birmingham)
The fans may be calling for heads to roll in the boardroom, but the players are at least giving it socks on the pitch. A fine passing move concludes with a simple finish for Richard Birmingham, who notches number thirty for the campaign to move him alongside Stanton's Reece Klaasen in the Silver Boot race.

16:06 - GOAL. AIG 0-1 AVU (C Perez)
That's why he's in the team! Aigburth's defence has been under the cosh since the kick-off, but had been holding off the tide of sky blue...until Carlos Perez finds some space, latching on to a disguised Ryan Costello pass and firing in a low shot. Advantage Avidia in the title race – you'll be able to hear the groans among fans of the chasing pack as news of that goal feeds round the grounds.

16:09 – GOAL. REM 1-0 SIM (A Tay)
Royal Emberton are, at least, keeping up their end of the bargain. They may be needing Aigburth to pull things back at home to the leaders, but they've taken the lead at home to Caledon. The Lions will be cursing their own poor marking, with defender Adam Tay able to rise unchallenged from a Billy Pugh corner, directing his header just inside the far post.

16:12 – HITS THE WOODWORK. BRC 0-0 EMR
The Reds come close to going in front at the Midland Stadium. The visitors have a free-kick in a dangerous position, and Jesse Garrett's strike has curl and dip. Unfortunately, it doesn't have quite enough of the latter, and the ball pings off the crossbar. Bromham manage to clear their lines from the rebound, and we remain goalless in this one.

16:14 - GOAL. AIG 0-2 AVU (G Sanchez)
Avidia are looking a lot more confident now. Esteban Salvador and Carlos Perez are stretching the home side's defence, and an over-the-shoulder pass from Salvador to Gil Sanchez is put home expertly by the Eagles' striker as the visitors double their lead. It's looking over already in the title race.

16:16 – GOAL. AIG 1-2 AVU (P Okana)
There's life in the Cormorants yet! Avidia nod off after scoring their second, and a quick break resuts in Patrick Okana beating the offside trap, slotting the ball past a horribly exposed Gabriel Almada. Do they have another goal in them?

16:18 - GOAL. OUS 2-0 NEA (G Williams)
Ousevale well in control of this one. Credit to Mark Davis, who does well to parry Richard Birmingham's strike, but the ball falls to Greg Williams, who casually taps home the rebound.

16:24 – PENALTY. REM 1-0 SIM
Clumsy stuff from Royals' full-back Joel Parrish, as he trails a leg attempting to tackle Callum Lyall. The Simpson man hits the turf, and the referee points to the spot. Not the ideal situation for the home side...

16:26 – GOAL. REM 1-1 SIM (C Croft, pen)
Callum Croft holds his nerve, sending the keeper the wrong way to level things up at Oxley Park.

16:28 – RED CARD. AIG 1-2 AVU
McClean by name, definitely not clean by nature. The Aigburth midfielder unleashes a tackle that we think qualifies as a war crime in Mertagne, sending Esteban Salvador sprawling to the turf, and while the Krytenian international receives treatment, the referee swiftly brandishes the scarlet to his assailant.

16:30 – RED CARD. AIG 1-2 AVU
It's all kicking off at ArenaWest. As Regan McClean trudges back into the tunnel, United manager Angél Santiago lays into him. Words are exchanged, Santiago grabs the Aigburth man by the neck, and after being pulled away by a combination of his own coaches and the fourth official, the Eagles gaffer is sent to the stands. Once the kerfuffle dies down, and with poor Esteban Salvador taken off on a stretcher, Emmanuel Trevorrow replaces his stricken comrade on the pitch.

16:31 - GOAL. FOX 0-1 ASH (K Babcock)
The Xannerian does what she does best, getting on the end of passes and finishing clinically. This time, she's puncturing Foxchester's hopes of an IFCF spot with a measured strike past James Bogdanovic.

16:33 - GOAL. SAN 1-0 MBR (M Forss)
Massive goal in the dogfight – and Mercia's title hopes might have just been dealt a mortal blow regardless of whether Aigburth can find an equaliser at ArenaWest. Sandwell haven't been in this game much, but a quick clearance from Brittany Edwards finds Alan Taglieri out wide. As Mercia's defenders scramble back, Taglieri picks out Martin Forss to volley home. As things stand, that's Rangers out of the bottom three.

16:35 – GOAL. AIG 1-3 AVU (G Sanchez)
It's been all United since the red card, and the Eagles press home their advantage, Pista Benedek finding space on the edge of the box before feeding the ball to Sanchez to tap home. Avidia looking odds-on for their seventh title now.

16:37 - GOAL. AIG 1-4 AVU (R Costello)
Avidia in a ruthless mood, as Ryan Costello powers home from the edge of the penalty area. I think we can call the title race over at this point.

16:38 - GOAL. SAN 1-1 MBR (A Halvorsen)
Sandwell can't believe their bad luck on this one, as Mercia get an equaliser from the unlikeliest of places. Anastasia Halvorsen and Nathan Chilcott try to get something going on the left wing, and Halvorsen's deep cross floats past everyone before hitting the inside of the post and nestling in the net. If the Vanorian full-back claims that one, feel free to call BS. Rangers back in the drop zone, but with Avidia four-one up, the title is gone for Mercia regardless.

16:39 - GOAL. AIG 1-5 AVU (P Benedek)
Aigburth give away a free kick in a dangerous position, and Benedek takes them up on the offer, curling the ball over the wall and out of reach of José Blanco in the Cormorants' goal. Avidia are taking the title in style.

16:42 – JESUS CHRIST, EAGLES. AIG 1-6 AVU (R Costello)
I think it's safe to say Avidia have taken advantage of the extra man. Costello has his second of the game, drifting past Thomas Day before slotting home. That's four goals in eight minutes for the champions-in-waiting.

16:46 - GOAL. SAN 1-2 MBR (C Grayson)
You just can't keep Claudia Grayson out of the game. It wasn't the prettiest of goals – the Baker Park striker poking home after Sandwell failed to deal with a corner – but it brings her to 29 for the season and puts Mercia in front. Dereapolis fans breathing a sigh of relief as things stand.

16:50 - HALF-TIME
Aigburth-Avidia is the last game to break for half-time thanks to the McClean-Salvador incident. With forty-five minutes to go, Avidia are walking the title, with Mercia and Stanton in the Challengers Cup spots, and Sandwell needing things to turn their way to avoid the drop. Still plenty of time for things to change...maybe not at Arena West, though.

17:05 - KICK-OFF
All ten matches back in play together. The title race looks done and dusted, but Sandwell will be hoping they can save their season in the next forty-five minutes.

17:08 - PENALTY. CAV 0-0 EMH
Quentin Odell's challenge misses the ball but brings down Cécilien Vanoret on the edge of the box. The Hibs defender collects a booking, and gives Caversham the chance to take the lead.

17:10 – WHAT A SAVE! CAV 0-0 EMH
Vanoret's penalty is a good one, but Leo Pohler guesses the right way, stretching out his fingertips in mid-air to push the strike round the post. The ensuing corner comes to nothing, and we remain goalless at the Draconium.

17:12 - GOAL. CAS 1-0 BEC (M Karlsen)
Ryan Archer's lovely through-ball splits the Beckton defence, and Marcus Karlsen doesn't miss those. A simple finish for the striker from Valanora puts Casuals in front.

17:17 - GOAL. REM 1-2 SIM (R Lindsay)
The outgoing champions take the lead, having gone behind early. Centre-back Ross Lindsay loses his marker at a corner before glancing past Louis Kendrick. Bad news for the Royals.

17:21 – GOAL. DER 0-1 STA (R Klaasen)
It had to be him! Reece Klaasen moves to thirty-one for the season, powering home a half-volley from a lofted Cordell Black pass. Dereapolis will be looking nervously at the Sandwell-Mercia game now, but as things stand they're still outside the drop zone.

17:23 - GOAL. MON 1-1 SEC (R Tapie)
A scrappy one in the mountains, as René Tapie pokes home from a messy goalmouth scramble. Secklow had led since the first minute, but Les Bleus have had the run of play so far in the second half.

17:26 – RED CARD. OUS 2-0 NEA
With Greg Williams chasing down a heavy pass, Mark Davis comes out of his goal to play sweeper-keeper, and succeeds only in bundling down the Ousevale striker. The referee shows no hesitation in brandishing the red card, and Neathill are down to ten. Ashley Johanssen makes way as Neathill bring on Timothy Crowther to replace the disgraced Davis between the sticks.

17:30 - GOAL. OUS 3-0 NEA (R Birmingham)
Ousevale make their numerical advantage pay, with Greg Williams nodding down a Charlie Allen cross for Birmingham to get his second of the game. Tigers in cruise control.

17:35 - GOAL. OUS 4-0 NEA (R Birmingham)
Ousevale's Flavovespian striker completes his hat-trick. This time it's Connor Mitchell with the assist, pulling the ball back for Birmingham to tap in. He's now in the lead for the Silver Boot.

17:36 – GOAL. FOX 0-2 ASH (J Planter)
The clock has well and truly struck midnight for the Foxes, Jake Planter's clinical strike giving Ashton a two goal advantage and all but killing off Foxchester's faint hopes of Challengers Cup football.

17:40 - GOAL. FOX 1-2 ASH (N Goode)
All credit to Foxchester, they just don't know when their beaten. Callaghan Bauldry gets something on a fierce Regemaine D'Eberrou strike, but the rebound falls kindly for Nathan Goode to slot the ball into an empty net.

17:41 – GOAL. OUS 5-0 NEA (W Burns)
Neathill's day gets worse as they concede a fifth. This time it's substitute Will Burns popping up to nod past Crowther from a Danny Raymond cross.

17:46 - GOAL. AIG 1-7 (SEVEN) AVU (E Trevorrow)
United did all the damage in the first half, so it's perhaps not surprising things have been quiet at ArenaWest since the break. Emmanuel Trevorrow, however, reminds the league that the Eagles are flying to their seventh title by adding a...well...seventh.

17:49 - GOAL. SAN 2-2 MBR (J Moliano)
South Road explodes with noise! Shaun Dawlish's challenge on Martin Forss gifts Sandwell a free kick in a dangerous position, and Jesse Moliano strikes it with curve and dip over the wall and into the far corner past a despairing Tom Simmons. With Dereapolis still behind against Stanton, that's Rangers safe as things stand. Is there still time for things to change?

17:51 – FULL TIME AT ARENAWEST
One minute of stoppage time expires, and Avidia United are confirmed as champions. We've known this for about an hour and a quarter, to be fair.

17:52 – FULL TIME AT SOUTH ROAD
No time for Sandwell to push for a winner – and no heart in the Mercia players to regain the lead. They'll be in the Challengers Cup next season, whilst the home fans wait for news from the south-west.

17:54 – HITS THE WOODWORK, RED CARD. DER 0-1 STA
Well, it's all gone a bit crazy at the County Ground. Dereapolis have been peppering the Stanton goal for the last ten minutes, and with a corner in stoppage time, goalkeeper Thomas King comes up as Derry desperately search for an equaliser. In the end, it's Grant Hutcherson who connects, his header crashing off the crossbar. The rebound is picked up by Stanton's Shawn Ford, who is immediately rugby tackled by King. The Dereapolis goalie is already removing his gloves as he's shown the inevitable red card; with no substitutions left, winger Corey Taylor is hastily handed a keeper's jersey and King's gloves for whatever remains of stoppage time.

17:59 - FULL TIME AT THE COUNTY GROUND
The sending off takes all the sting out of Derry's attack, and Stanton see out the win, sending Dereapolis down and ensuring Sandwell's survival.

by **Krytenia** » Tue Jul 23, 2024 3:43 pm

SEASON XXVI PREVIEW

ADANAC CITY

Expected First XI
1. Nichi Pomander (NPH), 31, GK
2. Raul Romero (KRY), 28, LB
5. Ross Sigurdsson (KRY), 30, CB
6. Lucas Singer (KRY), 26, CB
3. Christian Gati (KRY), 24, RB
4. Victor Baskerville (KRY), 27, CM
8. Lawrence Blaine (KRY), 24, CM
11. Francisco Ibanez (KRY), 25, LW
7. Benjamin Rousseau (PTR), 30, RW
15. Charlie Sarpong (KRY), 21, HF
9. Michael Clay (KRY), 27, ST

Nickname: The Reds
Home ground: Adanac Municipal Stadium, cap. 32,155
Rivals: Quinton City, Sporting Adanac
Sponsor: n/a
Manager: Peter Trossard (KRY), age 42
Last season: 1st, Division One
Players in: Benjamin Rousseau (Couen Arsenal (PTR), free)
Players out: none

Adanac was originally built as a planned city for the influx of refugees from the long-since dead nation of Hockey Canada after their government, for want of a better word, imploded. As such, the general vibe of the city is a strong sense of community with a side order of Communism. Success on the field is secondary to the promotion of team ethic and unity. That might explain why Nichi Pomander kept the faith after their relegation the season before last.

Prediction: Hoping to break the string of that promotion/relegation yo-yo. May just manage it in a competitive bottom six. 16th

ASHTON OLYMPIC

Expected First XI
1. Callaghan Bauldry (MRT/BRE), 23, GK
3. Stephen Lorimer (KRY), 31, LB
4. Erin Crease (QAD), 23, CB
5. Geno Foster (KRY), 21, CB
2. Matt Tyler (KRY), 29, RB
7. Carl Webb (KRY), 24, LM
8. Wang Xianliang (YZH/CMT), 20, CM
11. Jack Planter (KRY), 25, RM
12. Indigo Taylor (SAJ), 29, HF
9. Keli Babcock (XAN), 24, ST
17. Samuel Robertson (KRY), 23, ST

Nickname: The Bears
Home ground: The Rutian Grounds, cap. 56,066
Rivals: Leston Town, Dereapolis City
Sponsor: GXi (isotonic sports drink)
Manager: Eric Saunders (KRY), age 51
Last season: 4th
Players in: Erin Crease (Asbury Park (XAN), ₳500k)
Players out: James Connor (Secklow, ₳800k), Jonathan Garston (Bradwell Saints, free), Leo Burgess (retired)

Originally founded as simply Ashton FC, the club added the Olympic moniker after the city was chosen as host of the VI Winter Games. International recognition and investment in the area followed, and the club rode the wave to build themselves into a contender. Twice O-League champions, Olympic are usually there or thereabouts in the final shake-up. After winning the KFA Cup, Ashton surprised many by letting James Connor go for a relative pittance. No pressure on Sam Robertson, then.

Prediction: A lack of ambition over the off-season; likely to be on the outside looking in this time. 7th

AVIDIA UNITED

Expected First XI
1. Emily Davis (TFS), 25, GK
3. Oscar Mendoza (KRY), 26, LB
4. Dontell Rockfield (SEM), 23, CB
12. Miguelito Leitão (CBZ), 21, CB
2. Hugh Mallon (KRY), 29, RB
11. Micael Berggren (TKT), 23, LM
6. Emmanuel Trevorrow (KOR), 28, CM
10. Esteban Salvador (KRY), 26, CM
7. Pista Benedek (PAS), 25, RM
8. Ryan Costello (KRY), 21, HF
9. Gil Sanchez (KRY), 28, ST

Nickname: The Eagles/United
Home ground: Carstairs Park, cap. 74,305
Rivals: Avidia City, CF Avides
Sponsor: Krytenia Digital Communications (telecoms)
Manager: Angél Santiago (KRY), age 48
Last season: 1st
Players in: Emily Davis (Pearlham SC (XAN), ₳1m)
Players out: David Muster (Tsear AC (SAT), ₳800k)

It's hard to believe nowadays, but in the early years of Krytenian professional club football, Avidia United weren't even the big team in the Second City. Back then, they were called AFC Avidia and had become very much associated with the middle-class of the metropolis in contrast with the more working-class Avidia City. A failed rebranding to Avidia Eagles was, thankfully, short-lived, but by this point City's star had begun to fade, and the newly-monikered United pitched themselves as the acceptable alternative to the Mercian giants and their bajillionaire owners. This stance may ring a little hollow now – the club spends big themselves – but at their roots, they're still a club that seems to care about its fans. Their move to Carstairs Park, a ground with both more noise and better fan experience than their old home, is proof positive of this. Now they've got the stadium, they're building a team to match and return to their dominant form of recent seasons. Their title win last season is one hell of a statement of intent in that regard. So is getting to the knockout rounds of the Challengers Cup.

Prediction: A few teams could run them close, but United have the scent of blood in their nostrils and could well fo back-to-back. 1st

BECKTON SUPERMARINE

Expected First XI
1. Darren Jensen (KRY), 20, GK
3. Hugh Danvers (KRY), 25, LB
6. Alistair McConnell (KRY), 25, CB
25. Topher Riley (KRY), 20, CB
2. Raphael Jacobs (KRY), 21, RB
11. José Morales (KRY), 26, LM
4. Jay Upton (KRY), 25, CM
15. Idoya Kronotsky (SRS), 20, CM
7. Jules Renard (KRY), 26, RM
10. Patrick McLaggan (KRY), 27, HF
17. Marcus Snead (KRY), 21, ST

Nickname: The Mariners
Home ground: Orange Street, cap. 37,665
Rivals: Casuals Osteria
Sponsor: Ozone (courier service)
Manager: David Gallagher (KRY), age 45
Last season: 14th
Players in: Marcus Snead (Dereapolis City, ₳1m); Alistair McConnell (Capital FC (XAN), ₳500k)
Players out: none

Once upon a time, Beckton Supermarine were an oddly-named team from a forgotten port city. Then they shocked the nation with a Cinderella cup run and promotion to the top flight. They then defied expectations by not only staying up, but retaining the KFA Cup into the bargain. Beckton have since consolidated, and nowadays are top-flight mainstays with occasional sojourns into the top six. An absolute pain in the backside to play, especially with the current young but hungry side. Spending decent cash on keeping Marcus Snead in the Prem and repatriating Alistair McConnell from his exile in Xanneria suggests that they plan to be an even bigger pain this season.

Prediction: Mid-table, because Beckton. 11th

BROMHAM CITY

Expected First XI
13. Alexander Jewell (DAR), 26, GK
3. Martin Long (KRY), 27, LB
4. Ian Sanderson (KRY), 20, CB
5. Sharon Pettinger (TKT), 33, CB
18. Jean-Jacques Friu (JUE), 23, RB
16. Tyler Chapman (KRY), 19, LM
6. Aaron Wharfedale (KRY), 22, CM
11. Vilhelmsson Larssen (TFS), 23, CM
7. Julian Backshaw (KRY), 28, RM
17. Andy Jones (KRY), 19, ST
10. Sam Billingham (KRY), 27, ST

Nickname: City/The Navies
Home ground: Midland Stadium, cap. 79,256
Rivals: Mercia Bromham
Sponsor: Tickford (automotive)
Manager: Kevin Watson (KRY), age 46
Last season: 16th
Players in: Vilhelmsson Larssen (Storm Wolves, free)
Players out: Marcus Robson (retired)

Originally the big dogs in Bromham – indeed, the Midland Stadium was used for the Nova Mercia “national” team back when it existed – City were eclipsed with haste once the Swann family got their talons into the city's other team. Perhaps because of this, the club is the more supported one within Bromham itself. Having spent several extended stints in the second tier, City have built a side based on getting the most out of the talent available. Kevin Watson has continued that tradition after replacing Ousevale-bound Shaun Downey...which has worked out far better for the former than the latter.

Prediction: Will cause some headaches on their way to eventual safety. 15th

CALEDON SIMPSON

Expected First XI
1. Adam Leagrave (KRY), 29, GK
3. Kensorin Hattin (KRY), 26, LB
5. Ross Lindsay (KRY), 19, CB
17. Claudio Vantula (MRT), 34, CB
21. Cameron McKeown (KRY), 19, RB
11. Callum Lyall (KRY), 24, LM
6. Carson Kenzie (KRY), 24, CM
7. Iain McGowan (SRS), 22, CM
8. Shawn Burns (KRY), 23, RM
9. Callum Croft (KRY), 20, HF
10. Daniel Robson (KRY), 26, ST

Nickname: Caley/The Lions
Home ground: Walton Gardens, cap. 55,208
Rivals: Casuals Osteria, Beckton Supermarine
Sponsor: Metropole Environmental (waste management)
Manager: Samuel Scott (KRY), age 55
Last season: 10th
Players in: Emilios Nicolides (Akidimia Asteras (VDR), ₳500k)
Players out: Ronja Kukk (Saint Geoffreystown (XAN), ₳720k); Luke Sundvall (Norteña, ₳360k)

Simpson is traditionally the home of Krytenia's ethnically Caledonian community, and this is reflected in the identity and colours of their hometown club. The team is probably most well known for winning the AOCL in the days way, way before the O-League. In the last few seasons, the board has rejuvenated the club soup to nuts, with a new badge, a new philosophy, and absolutely zero fear, which culminated in the young Lions lifting the title in Season 24. Last season was a regression, and Ronja Kukk proved not to be the answer that Samuel Scott hoped; time will tell if their title was a fluke or if they can get themselves back into the title picture.

Prediction: Caledon's Season 24 is almost certainly a fluke. Top half looks about right, though. 8th

CASUALS OSTERIA

Expected First XI
1. Mark Marosic (KRY), 26, GK
14. Elizaveta Nystrom (SRS), 28, LB
5. Paul Taylor (FVA), 30, CB
6. Serge Zampa (KRY), 21, CB
2. Matthew Santini (KRY), 25, RB
26. Jude Philpott (KRY), 19, LM
7. Ryan Holtz (KRY), 27, CM
4. Jack Kalani (KRY), 19, CM
8. Simon Masari (KRY), 31, RM
10. Ryan Archer (KRY), 25, HF
17. Marcus Karlsen (VAL), 26, ST

Nickname: Casuals/The Miners
Home ground: New Coalfields, cap. 71,119
Rivals: Beckton Supermarine
Sponsor: Krytenia Steel (steel production)
Manager: Marcus Frankel (KRY), age 44
Last season: 7th
Players in: Elizaveta Nystrom (Vogsphere United (SRS), ₳1.5m)
Players out: Theodore Chevalier (Foxchester Rovers, ₳300k)

Osteria is a city built on industry, and Casuals are a team built on its workers. Originally an amateur club, the “Casuals” part of the name came from the fact that unlike many other amateur teams of the era, the players didn't have to pay subs. Instead, the local miners' unions administered and subsidised the team, who played on a cleared area of flat ground near to a spoil heap – hence the name Coalfields. As the game became more organised through the country, the club turned professional and joined the nation's first pro league. They soon built a reputation for being a very difficult side to play. Nowadays, the coal mines are almost all closed, the city has moved into steelworking as its backbone, and the team plays in a stadium that's nowhere near massive anthracite tips. In the O-League era, Casuals are most famous for being unpredictable – often following a top-six finish with one in the bottom half, and on one occasion winning the title a season after avoiding relegation on the final day. Thankfully for the fans' health, they seem to have consolidated into an actual contender in recent seasons, and are now looking to make that final step up to the top of the podium. Despite Marcus Karlsen banging in the goals, they seem to still be short a piece or two.

Prediction: Looking good to challenge for a, well, Challengers Cup place. 4th

CAVERSHAM

Expected First XI
13. Gabriel Almada (KRY), 19, GK
3. Phil Ashton (KRY), 22, LB
14. Scott Korben (KRY), 20, CB
5. Declan Warren (KRY), 24, CB
2. Viola Partas (SRS), 29, RB
11. Malcolm Eder (KRY), 20, LM
12. Michael Norcott (KRY), 28, CM
8. Artin Derc (AUP), 30, RM
19. Cécilien Vanoret (PTR), 22, HF
9. Robert Petrovic (TFS), 23, ST
15. Anders Harnik (SRS), 25, ST

Nickname: The Dragons/Cav
Home ground: Draconium Arena, cap. 66,592
Rivals: Locomotive Wolverton
Sponsor: Sothiski (glassware and crystalware)
Manager: Arthur Jones (KRY), age 53
Last season: 15th
Players in: Robert Petrovic (Ancient Forest (TFS), free); Gabriel Almada (Avidia United, free);
Players out: Shaun Langer (Wickham Warriors (KSK), free)

Being the largest club in the state of Sothis sounds like a flex, but if you look on a map you'll notice a lot of rolling hills and farmland. Perhaps it's apt, then, that Caversham themselves are a bit of a farm club. They're good at developing talent, but less good at holding onto it, and have tended to be a bit of a yo-yo club. A recent rebranding, including a new simplified crest and a flip of kit colours from green with orange to orange with green, was hoped to be a statement of intent. Old habits die hard, however, as first goalkeeper Amanda Bach, then defender Lucas Camara left for greener pastures. This past off-season, though, has been different, as Gabriel Almada joins from the champions, and in the trio of Vanoret, Harnik, and Petrovic, they have a front three that may well cause opposition defenders a good deal of discomfort.

Prediction: Eat, sleep, finish mid-table, repeat. 13th

CFF MONTHUEZ

Expected First XI
1. Alain Nouble (KRY), 25, GK
2. Serge Milian (KRY), 27, LB
4. Georges Dion (KRY), 20, CB
5. Matteo Berniers (QUE), 28, CB
3. André Olivier (KRY), 31, RB
6. Emmanuel Curie (KRY), 23, CM
8. Frank Viraille (PTR), 30, CM
15. Alexandre Goulin (KRY), 20, CM
11. Charles Clichy (KRY), 22, LW
7. Maurice Coman (KRY), 24, RW
9. Choetrie Denlans (AUP), 28, ST

Nickname: Les Bleus
Home ground: Stade d'Huez, cap. 24,956
Rivals: Stade Valquois
Sponsor: Huez Mode (clothing)
Manager: Bruno Virenque (KRY), age 43
Last season: 13th
Players in: Frank Viraille (Griffin Isles United (PTR), ₳250k); Alizan Pereire (Akademiezh Mell-Droad Gouvanarch (GVN), free)
Players out: René Tapie (Quinton City, free)

Remote, unheralded, and proudly doing their own thing. This is the way of Club Francophone de Foot Monthuez. For the club, nestled high up in the biggest city in the Monteste mountains, have always been at the cultural centre of the range's resident Francophone community. For them, it's not so much about the league position as developing fine Gallic talent. One the one hand, their “French speakers only” philosophy does restrict their potential player pool, especially as Monteste is the least populated state in the nation. On the other hand, however, is the culture around the club itself; the locals treat the team as a proxy national side for their community, and as such, the players see donning the maillot bleu as a badge of pride.

Prediction: Others have improved around them. Could be in le potage. 19th

EMBERTON HIBERNIANS

Expected First XI
13. Leo Pohler (KRY), 19, GK
3. Seán Ó Loaghaire (KRY), 19, LB
5. Rodrigo Lopez (KRY), 26, CB
6. Derek Higgins (KRY), 27, CB
2. Arezu Zubin (SRS), 32, RB
11. Padraig Ó Dubhda (KRY), 21, LM
10. Darragh Gilsenan (KRY), 25, CM
8. George Corada (KRY), 23, RM
9. Gennaro Christie (SEM), 29, HF
16. Ohara Satoshi (ZEN), 25, ST
17. Euheni Wirdaner (KAN), 27, ST

Nickname: Hibs
Home ground: Paschal Park, cap. 29,012
Rivals: Emberton Reds, Royal Emberton
Sponsor: Maguire's Sorthern Stout (beer)
Manager: Aiden O'Leary (KRY), age 42
Last season: 9th
Players in: Ohara Satoshi (FZF (ZEN), ₳500k)
Players out: none

The youngest of Emberton's three top flight sides – and for that matter, the youngest top flight side of the lot – Hibs were originally founded in the aftermath of the destruction of the nation of Sorthern Northland. Hundreds of thousands of refugees managed to escape the nation before its civil war went nuclear, and a large number of them settled in Krytenia, and the capital especially. Emberton Sorthern FC were founded not just as a football club, but also as a force for good for the displaced Sortherners, with gate receipts and merchandise sales. As their former nation receded into the history books, it was decided to change the name to something that referenced the team's roots a bit more generally, and the club is now favoured, not just around Emberton's Sorthern-Irish community, but on a wider scope amongst the many immigrant groups in the capital. The team also still works hard with Emberton's immigrants, funding a number of food banks and community projects to assist the capital's poorest citizens. The fact that they're now established as a potential contender for the IFCF spots is just a bonus.

Prediction: Spinning those wheels in upper mid-table. 9th

EMBERTON REDS

Expected First XI
1. Nathan Klingbell (TKT), 30, GK
22. Trevor Cantwell (KSK), 24, LB
5. Benjamin Hora (KRY), 25, CB
6. Alexander Solis (KRY), 20, CB
18. Mackenzie Faedo (TKT), 23, RB
8. Owen Haller (KRY), 28, LM
4. Jack Kohler (KRY), 22, CM
17. Remo Herrera (KRY), 19, CM
10. Jesse Garrett (KRY), 28, RM
7. Rachel Duback (CDG), 24, HF
9. Brendan McShane (KRY), 29, ST

Nickname: The Reds
Home ground: Isserson Olympic Stadium, cap. 196,340
Rivals: Emberton Hibernians, Royal Emberton
Sponsor: JMC (sportswear)
Manager: Shaun Downey, age 49
Last season: 11th
Players in: Trevor Cantwell (Hamiltonian Cambria (KSK), ₳1.6m); MacKenzie Faedo (Oriannor Mountaineers, ₳1.3m)
Players out: none

To say Emberton Reds are an institution would certainly be accurate; it's also wise to remember that word also applies to mental health asylums. The Reds are famous – nay, infamous – for starting a season promisingly, only to throw it away in the space of a scant few weeks. It's often said that you can spot a Reds fan in February by the thousand-yard glassy stare as yet another season disintegrates in front of their eyes. A rebuilt defence, and rescuing Shaun Downey from the dole queue after his Ousevale disaster, might help there...but it's the Reds, so probably not.

Prediction: Shaun Downey will want to finish above Hibs at the very least. May fall slightly short. 10th

FOXCHESTER ROVERS

Expected First XI
1. James Bogdanovic (KRY), 27, GK
2. Thomas Keys (KRY), 25, LB
5. Nicholas Buchanan (KRY), 26, CB
15. Vitaly Kravchuk (PYA), 19, CB
18. Brett Horne (CRT), 27, RB
7. Nathan Goode (KRY), 25, LM
12. Theodore Chevalier (KRY), 20, CM
8. Russell Banks (KRY), 30, RM
10. Regemaine D'Eberrou (KRY), 25, HF
20. Jack Hidalgo (KRY), 19, ST
11. Callum Wilson (KRY), 29, ST

Nickname: The Foxes/Rovers
Home ground: The Unity Stadium at Railyards Park, cap 47,414
Rivals: Ousevale Borough, Ousevale Juniors
Sponsor: Unity Mutual (insurance)
Manager: Nathan Miles, age 40
Last season: 6th
Players in: Jack Hidalgo (Bradwell Saints, ₳900k); Theodore Chevalier (Casuals Osteria, ₳300k), Vitaly Kravchuk (Asbury Park (XAN), free)
Players out: none

Foxchester, traditionally, has been known as a commuter town to the north of its big brother Ousevale, and for having an identical name to a much larger city in Starblaydia, to the extent that the old joke was that they should just change the team's name to Foxchester No Not That One. The club, for many years, found themselves drifting between the league's second and third tiers, occasionally threatening to get themselves into the top flight only to sink back into the pack within a season or two. Then the creation of Anaia happened, and that Foxchester name suddenly became a badge of honour – even though the identity of which Foxchester the infamous meeting happened is deliberately kept vague. (The joke, meanwhile, simply updated the alternate name to Foxchester Not The Declaration.) Rather than playing on the Anaian theme, however, the club decided to rebrand on the “Foxes” aspect, changing colours from blue to white, orange, and black. It seems to have worked, as under the stewardship of former Caledon Simpson midfielder Tanner MacRobb, the team finally made it to the nosebleeds. MacRobb was poached by Mercia Bromham, and thence to the national side, but Nathan Miles kept the side up last season on the final day in season 24, before catapulting them to the edge of the IFCF spots last season.

Prediction: Last season was a fluke...right? Seriously, though, should be a comfortably dull season. 12th

LESTON TOWN

Expected First XI
1. Daniel Wharton (KRY), 20, GK
2. Oliver Niven (KRY), 20, LB
5. Vic Christopher (KRY), 25, CB
6. Danny Amberleigh (KRY), 29, CB
3. Justin Jackson (KRY), 22, RB
11. Nathan Chilcott (KRY), 33, LM
4. Kieron Butcher (KRY), 24, CM
8. Amanda Norman (KRY), 23, CM
12. Harvey Richmond (KRY), 26, RM
10. Derek Patterson (KRY), 30, HF
7. Maurice Edwards (KRY), 31, ST

Nickname: The Gears
Home ground: Lay's Road, cap. 39,981
Rivals: Dereapolis City, Ashton Olympic
Sponsor: Toolstop (hardware store chain)
Manager: Daniel Offord, age 43
Last season: 2nd, Division One
Players in: Nathan Chilcott (Mercia Bromham, free); Maurice Edwards (Ousevale Borough, ₳400k)
Players out: [i[none[/i]

Leston is an industrial, hard-working, and mostly quite bland city. Fittingly, then, Leston Town are an industrious, hard-working, and mostly bland club traditionally built from the defence forwards. Ross Green, former Krytenian captain, is probably their most famous alumnus. They made a living from being grittily mid-table until it all fell apart in Season 23; coming back up at the expense of big rivals Dereapolis would have been all the sweeter.

Prediction: Best placed of the promoted sides. 14th

MERCIA BROMHAM

Expected First XI
1. Tom Simmons (KRY), 24, GK
3. Anastasia Halvorsen (VAL), 24, LB
5. Kevin Jameson (KRY), 28, CB
6. Shaun Dawlish (KRY), 27, CB
2. Justin Darcy (KRY), 29, RB
7. Stefanie Martini (CBP), 24, LM
4. Jonathan Byrd (KRY), 24, CM
12. Eddie Culverhouse (KRY), 20, CM
10. Alice Sauvage (QAD), 29, RM
11. Leandra Berenguer (NPH/ASG), 28, HF
9. Claudia Grayson (CBP), 24, ST

Nickname: Mercia/The Midlanders
Home ground: Cygnus Stadium, cap 105,013
Rivals: Ousevale Borough, Bromham City
Sponsor: Cygnus Corporation (tech hardware/software)
Manager: Tommy Warren, age 43
Last season: 3rd
Players in: Alice Sauvage (Megabrantid SC (SRS), ₳3m); Leandra Berenguer (Anomalies (CMT), ₳4m)
Players out: Nathan Chilcott (Leston Town, free); Daryl Rivers (Tijhuis Archimedes (TAX), ₳1.2m)

When Bromham East Green and Mercia Birmwood merged in the early days of Krytenian football, nobody had any clue of the monster they would unleash. Though they did have to play second fiddle to their cross-city rivals for a few seasons, they slowly grew to be a local powerhouse, with intent to grow their tendrils yet further. Andrew Swann saw in the club a set of ambitions that matched his own, and added Mercia as a shiny bauble adjacent to his Cygnus tech empire. His descendants have inherited both his eye for business and complete lack of scruples, which might explain why the Midlanders are the most hated team in the country among non-fans. This is the crucible and poisoned chalice handed to former national team boss Tommy Warren, who unusually for Mercia bosses in recent seasons has managed to stay on for a second season.

Prediction: Could challenge for the title now that they've finally discovered this thing called “continuity”. 3rd

NOTEGIA RANGERS

Expected First XI
1. José Blanco (KRY), 24, GK
2. Toby Rowett (KRY), 26, LB
4. Adam Joshua (KRY), 23, CB
5. Roy Connell (KRY), 31, CB
3. Rick Adams (KRY), 29, RB
11. Sam Healey (KRY), 25, LM
7. Bobby Wong (DAN), 32, CM
18. Matthew Palmer (KRY), 20, RM
10. Freddie Langham (KRY), 28, HF
9. Jed Scott (KRY), 27, ST
20. Leroy Masters (KRY), 19, ST

Nickname: Rangers
Home ground: Knott Crescent, cap 50,552
Rivals: Mercia Bromham, Bromham City
Sponsor: 13Black.kt (online casino)
Manager: Jonathan Thorneycroft, age 69
Last season: 3rd, Division One
Players in: José Blanco (Aigburth Athletic, ₳750k); Bobby Wong (BSN (TAX), free)
Players out: none

Notegia Rangers are by far the senior and superior team in the south-eastern city of Tyfield. Oringinally a nomadic side, playing at various venues across County Notegia, the club eventually settled in the suburbs of the county seat, building their Knott Crescent ground and growing to be one of Mercia's first powerhouses. They won the league in the early days of Krytenian professional football; since then, they've been merely average, spending long periods of time either in the bottom half of the Prem or the top half of Division One. Manager Jonathan Thorneycroft is an icon at the club, coming through the academy as a youngster and being a one-club man as a player, coach, and manager. He's announced this season will be his last in charge of Rangers, having successfully led them back to the promised land.

Prediction: JT checking out rock bottom. 20th

OUSEVALE BOROUGH

Expected First XI
1. Tamika Harridan (NPH), 26, GK
15. Anthony Wallace (KRY), 31, LB
5. Renee McKenzie (CBP), 24, CB
18. Julian Sackholme (OCH), 26, CB
15. Charlie Allen (KRY), 21, RB
11. Connor Mitchell (KRY), 28, LM
8. Harun Farrow (EFL), 25, CM
10. Josh Cochrane (KRY), 32, RM
9. Greg Williams (KRY), 26, HF
7. Teiichi Tsuchimoto (KOR), 24, HF
17. Richard Birmingham (FVA), 27, ST

Nickname: The Tigers/Boro
Home ground: Southern Arena, cap 91,093
Rivals: Mercia Bromham
Sponsor: Chirper (social media)
Manager: Kayla Dosarya (SAJ), age 49
Last season: 8th
Players in: Anthony Wallace (Carathyr Emeralds FC (TKT), ₳2.3m); Teiichi Tsuchimoto (Katashi-Kanatsu (KOR), ₳8m)
Players out: Maurice Edwards (Leston Town, ₳400k; Ian Yorke (retired)

Long-time followers will need no introduction to this lot. Without a doubt, the most successful side in Krytenian football, built on a succession of shrewd (and often expensive) international signings, especially at striker. The likes of Soraya Roshanak, Valrauncion, Drunn Deleks, and Michael Willem are now joined by Flavovespia's Richard Birmingham, who's already carving his own name into the Ousevale legend. A lot of this spending is down to the Spencer family, owners of the club, property magnates, and pioneers of Krytenia's social housing programmes. To add to the coffers, the family have even eschewed having the name of one of their property firms on the club's shirts for the first time in years, instead signing a big-money deal with social media network Chirper. Not that it helped the season before last, as they finished eighth. Ousevale's new plan to bounce back from this was their old plan: spend all the money. Not that it helped last season, as they finished eighth. Ousevale's new plan to bounce back from this is their old plan: spend all the money. Also, bring in a manager from Sajnur.

Prediction: If they finish eighth again this season, there will be blood. Shouldn't be an issue...should it? 2nd

ROYAL EMBERTON

Expected First XI
1. Louis Kendrick (KRY), 29, GK
2. Sahwen Chao (SNL), 28, LB
5. Malcolm Kirsten (KRY), 32, CB
24. Adam Tay (KRY), 19, CB
12. Spinelle Pawson (NPH), 26, RB
11. Billy Pugh (KRY), 26, LM
4. Evan Izzet (KRY), 29, CM
8. Darren Gabriel (KRY), 24, CM
7. Frici Király (PAS), 25, RM
10. Devon Morris (KRY), 23, HF
17. Enrique Garcia (KRY), 20, ST

Nickname: The Royals/Pats
Home ground: Oxley Park, cap 53,882
Rivals: Emberton Reds, Emberton Hibernians
Sponsor: Elmec (electronics)
Manager: Jonas Skarsgaard, age 52
Last season: 5th
Players in: Jolanda Rutz (Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology (CMT), free)
Players out: Andrew Kirsten (Daedonggang 3.26 (QUE), undisclosed)

Usually second in the capital's pecking order, Royal Emberton are probably the only team in the league that needs to know the plural of “identity crisis”. Formed as Everton City Patriots, their first name change was an enforced one due to the renaming of the city itself. The Emberton Patriots name would only last a couple of seasons before the side rebranded as Krytenia Emberton, though the “Pats” nickname has still stuck around. A brief (and again, enforced) name change to Emberton Oxley during the West Starblaydi regime followed until Dominique and Tiberius were told in no uncertain terms to stay down their own end. With home rule – and the monarchy – restored, the club finally settled on their current name. Their form was about as consistent as their name for the longest time; ironically, a change of fortune would come following a rebranding of the one thing that remained constant through all the different names – the badge. The crowned lion and shield was introduced in the lead-up to Season 23, and the club would go on to win that season's title – their first of the O-League era.

Prediction: Best of the capital sides, but short of IFCF football. 6th

SANDWELL RANGERS

Expected First XI
1. Christopher Silverman (QUE/CMT), 24, GK
3. Stephen Rios (KRY), 25, LB
4. Manny Rawlinson (KRY), 22, CB
5. Brittany Edwards (SNL), 25, CB
2. Gordon Lukic (KRY), 24, RB
11. Michil Sloteend (KOR), 22, LM
6. Jesse Moliano (KRY), 21, CM
7. Brandon Cornell (KRY), 26, CM
8. Adam Taglieri (KRY), 23, RM
10. Max Amaro (KRY), 22, HF
9. Martin Forss (KRY), 23, ST

Nickname: Rangers
Home ground: South Road, cap 32,240
Rivals: NSE Kovenham, Secklow
Sponsor: Meridian (hotels)
Manager: Christian Mathias, age 46
Last season: 17th
Players in: Michil Sloteend (Neathill, ₳250k)
Players out: none

Sandwell have traditionally somewhat of a backwater team in western Krytenia. That all changed, though, with a surprise promotion that led to a seven-season stay in the top flight. Rangers may have been relegated, but they bounced straight back, and stayed up by the skin of their teeth last season.

Prediction: No Dereapolis to save them this time. 18th

SECKLOW

Expected First XI
1. Deion Hendricks (KRY), 25, GK
3. Keith Bettini (KRY), 25, LB
5. Marc Siddle (KRY), 21, CB
6. Vladislava Osina (PYA), 21, CB
2. Antosha Korablin (PYA), 21, RB
8. Roger Callaghan (KRY), 23, LM
4. Ihar Rindewan (KAN), 29, CM
7. Jordan Tillotson (KRY), 25, CM
11. Adam Kimmich (KRY), 22, RM
9. James Connor (KRY), 27, ST
17. Matt Wright (KRY), 20, ST

Nickname: The Hoops
Home ground: The Mound, cap 56,137
Rivals: NSE Kovenham
Sponsor: Spectrum Paints (paint)
Manager: Jack Keane, age 52
Last season: 12th
Players in: James Connor (Ashton Olympic, ₳800k)
Players out: none

Krytenia's western states have never been the most productive for top-flight football teams; NSE Kovenham could never quite push even into mid-table, and the last time Aigburth Athletic were relevant prior to last season, dinosaurs roamed the earth. Secklow, though, are different. True, they've not had the consistency in recent years, but they were a mainstay of the O-League's early seasons before fading, and their iconic red and blue hoops are still recognisable to this day. The current iteration is very much concentrating on building a strong, young core, with Kanmer's Ihar Rindewan being an interesting rock upon which to build. James Connor, on the other hand, makes much more conventional sense.

Prediction: James Connor will keep them up. Probably. 17th

STANTON TOWN

Expected First XI
13. Danté Meaden (KRY), 21, GK
3. Shawn Ford (MRT/EUR), 24, LB
5. Des Edwards (KRY), 34, CB
6. Michael Houseman (KRY), 22, CB
2. Margaret Harlow (MRT), 32, RB
11. Dylan James (KRY), 27, LM
4. Jonathan Aubrey (KRY), 24, CM
8. Zachary Lyons (KRY), 29, CM
7. Cordell Black (KRY), 29, RM
10. Charlie Rice (KRY), 22, HF
9. Reece Klaasen (KRY), 25, ST

Nickname: The Dockers
Home ground: Harbour Stadium, cap 60,662
Rivals: Bradwell Saints
Sponsor: Stanton & Tabeck Ferry Company (shipping)
Manager: Will Rowlands, age 46
Last season: 2nd
Players in: none
Players out: none

Stanton's history is intertwined with that of it's famous football family; the Kennedy dynasty. From Gabriel and Raphael through to Selaphiel, the surname is indelibly linked with the team, and often the fortunes of the Dockers depended largely on whether the guy playing up front had those seven letters on the back of his shirt. Recent years have changed that, though, and investment in the academy and shrewd managers such as Richard Valens and Paul James have borne bumper crops of fruit. They're also not afraid to bring in youngsters from other clubs, a policy that Reece Klaasen is surely quite glad of, as he's been allowed to truly shine at the Harbour Stadium. Following up almost winning the title with a transfer strategy of “fail to sign anyone” is brave to say the least, though.

Prediction: A lack of fresh blood could cost them in the squeaky parts of the season. 5th

by **Krytenia** » Mon Sep 23, 2024 7:09 am

SEASON XXVI - PART ONE

Avidia United finished last season by scoring seven to seal their seventh O-League title, and they're the team to beat once again this season. That's not to say there won't be others in the mix. Stanton, Casuals, Mercia, Royal Emberton...maybe even Ousevale if they can finally get their heads in the game. And that's to say nothing of a side potentially pulling a Caledon.

So, can anyone down the champions? Let's take a look.

MATCHDAY 1
The Champion's Kick-Off is a doubly accurate name this season, as Avidia United open the season at home to the champions of Division One, Adanac City. The team from the far north are looking to actually stay up at the end of the season for once, but when Ryan Costello put the home side in front after just three minutes, it looked ominous for Adanac. Peter Trossard, though, kept faith in his team, shouting instructions from the dugout whilst his opposite number watched from the stands, serving a touchline ban after his sending-off in United's closer. Maybe that was the difference, as a disciplined City side held firm and grabbed a point through Lucas Singer's late header.

The draw would set the tone for the weekend, with five of Saturday's games finishing level. Leston v Bromham was an unsurprising snoozefest, Ashton's game against Casuals perhaps more eyebrow raising in its lack of goals. Meanwhile, Mercia would have probably preferred a draw, as they threw away a two-one lead in half an hour to the Royals and end the first weekend rock bottom.

Sunday, meanwhile, raised the question of whether Kayla Dosarya would indeed be the answer for Ousevale. Tests proved inconclusive; there again, there will be easier games for the Tigers than away at the Docklands, and new signing Teiichi Tsuchimoto hit the ground running with an assist for Harun Farrow's goal, so there's that.

Results:
FRIDAY - CHAMPION'S KICK OFF
Avidia United 1-1 Adanac City

SATURDAY
Ashton Olympic 0-0 Casuals Osteria
Caledon Simpson 1-1 CFF Monthuez
Emberton Hibernians 1-0 Foxchester Rovers
Emberton Reds 2-2 Beckton Supermarine
Leston Town 0-0 Bromham City
Mercia Bromham 2-4 Royal Emberton
Notegia Rangers 0-0 Secklow
Sandwell Rangers 0-1 Caversham
SUNDAY
Stanton Town 1-1 Ousevale Borough

MATCHDAY 2
Well, that appears to be the Ousevale question answered. The Tigers were back to their old dominant selves against a hopelessly outmatched Leston side, Richard Birmingham netting a hat-trick in a five-one win. For Foxchester and Sandwell, meanwhile, the search for a first point of the season continues – though to be fair to the Foxes, single goal defeats to Hibs and Caledon aren't exactly cause for panic.

On to Sunday, and what might be cause for panic is the state of United's title defence so far. Casuals absolutely swept them aside, and one point from six is not the best way to start a season, let's put it that way.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 2-2 Royal Emberton
Beckton Supermarine 1-0 Notegia Rangers
Bromham City 3-0 Sandwell Rangers
Caversham 1-1 Mercia Bromham
CFF Monthuez 1-1 Ashton Olympic
Foxchester Rovers 1-2 Caledon Simpson
Ousevale Borough 5-1 Leston Town
Secklow 1-4 Stanton Town
SUNDAY
Casuals Osteria 4-1 Avidia United
Emberton Reds 1-1 Emberton Hibernians

MATCHDAY 3
So, Casuals, you've just hammered the champions at home...what do you do for an encore?

The answer, apparently, is “lay a massive egg”. Jonas Skarsgaard's Royals side were in imperious form, and the Miners collapsed like a canary with emphysema as the home side stuck eight past them. Mark Marosic will be waking up in cold sweats for days after that. Rather unsurprisingly, it puts them top of the table on goal difference, ahead of an Ousevale side scoring for fun for the second week in a row.

Sunday's win for Stanton means they occupy third, whilst Foxchester slid to their third one-goal defeat on the bounce. To make matters worse, it was a cruel Nicky Buchanan own goal that settled the match against Ashton.

Results:
SATURDAY
Avidia United 2-0 CFF Monthuez
Caledon Simpson 0-0 Emberton Reds
Caversham 1-0 Bromham City
Leston Town 0-2 Secklow
Mercia Bromham 2-0 Adanac City
Notegia Rangers 2-3 Emberton Hibernians
Royal Emberton 8-0 Casuals Osteria
Sandwell Rangers 1-4 Ousevale Borough
SUNDAY
Ashton Olympic 1-0 Foxchester Rovers
Stanton Town 1-0 Beckton Supermarine

MATCHDAY 4
Casuals Osteria once had a reputation for putting their fans through the emotional wringer. Apparently, they're looking to win that reputation back. Looking to recover from last week's travesty against promoted side Adanac, they led at half-time through Ryan Archer's howitzer. The second half, though, saw a defensive collapse, a brace for Michael Clay, and a fresh heaping of embarrassment dumped on the Miners.

Caversham, meanwhile, kept up their reputation of being a pain in the backside to play, standing punch-for-punch against Ousevale, and almost sneaking all three points – substitute Andrew Karlsson's strike thumping the post in stoppage time. It leaves the two sides locked together on eight points, with Ousevale third and Caversham fourth on goal difference.

Sunday saw the Bromham derby, a game that Mercia have notoriously dropped the ball on a few times in the past. No chance of that this time, though, as the Midlanders breezed past their cross city rivals. Royals' hammering of Monthuez, meanwhile, means they stay top on goal difference, ahead of Stanton.

Results:
SATURDAY
Casuals Osteria 1-3 Adanac City
Ousevale Borough 2-2 Caversham
Secklow 0-1 Sandwell Rangers
Foxchester Rovers 1-1 Avidia United
Beckton Supermarine 2-0 Leston Town
Emberton Reds 1-0 Ashton Olympic
Emberton Hibernians 0-4 Stanton Town
Notegia Rangers 0-1 Caledon Simpson
SUNDAY
Bromham City 0-3 Mercia Bromham
CFF Monthuez 1-4 Royal Emberton

MATCHDAY 5
Well, that's one way to pick up your first win of the season! Foxchester have been on the wrong end of a few close ones this season, but Jack Hidalgo's late strike secured all three points against erstwhile leaders Royal Emberton. Stanton can't take advantage, mustering only a draw against Caledon, and that allows Ousevale to nip into top spot on goal difference after a comfortable win against Bromham. Caversham's win over Secklow, meanwhile, means they're level with the top two on points at this early stage.

On Sunday, Avidia finally remembered they were the reigning champions, putting the Reds to the sword at Carstairs Park. They're up to sixth place.

Results:
SATURDAY
Adanac City 3-0 CFF Monthuez
Ashton Olympic 3-1 Notegia Rangers
Bromham City 1-3 Ousevale Borough
Caversham 2-0 Secklow
Leston Town 2-0 Emberton Hibernians
Royal Emberton 1-2 Foxchester Rovers
Sandwell Rangers 1-0 Beckton Supermarine
Stanton Town 1-1 Caledon Simpson
SUNDAY
Avidia United 6-1 Emberton Reds
Mercia Bromham 1-1 Casuals Osteria

Table after MD5:

Pos Team                     P  W  D  L For  Ag  +/- Pts
  1 Ousevale Borough         5  3  2  0  15   6   +9  11
  2 Stanton Town             5  3  2  0  11   3   +8  11
  3 Caversham                5  3  2  0   7   3   +4  11
  4 Royal Emberton           5  3  1  1  19   7  +12  10
  5 Caledon Simpson          5  2  3  0   5   3   +2   9
  6 Avidia United            5  2  2  1  11   7   +4   8
  7 Mercia Bromham           5  2  2  1   9   6   +3   8
  8 Adanac City              5  2  2  1   9   6   +3   8
  9 Ashton Olympic           5  2  2  1   5   3   +2   8
 10 Beckton Supermarine      5  2  1  2   5   4   +1   7
 11 Emberton Hibernians      5  2  1  2   5   9   -4   7
 12 Emberton Reds            5  1  3  1   5   9   -4   6
 13 Sandwell Rangers         5  2  0  3   3   8   -5   6
 14 Casuals Osteria          5  1  2  2   6  13   -7   5
 15 Foxchester Rovers        5  1  1  3   4   6   -2   4
 16 Bromham City             5  1  1  3   4   7   -3   4
 17 Secklow                  5  1  1  3   3   7   -4   4
 18 Leston Town              5  1  1  3   3   9   -6   4
 19 CFF Monthuez             5  0  2  3   3  11   -8   2
 20 Notegia Rangers          5  0  1  4   3   8   -5   1

O-League Krytenia Newswires (CLOSED)

Who is online