WC 56 SNLVI RP Thread

by **Stuffed Taxidermists** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 1:16 am

The ST Sports Informer

Stuffed Taxidermists 1 Krytenia 4
Stuffed Taxidermists have lost 4-1 to Krytenia in the last round of World Cup Qualifying, effectively ending any chance of making ir to the World Cup. Nobody went into the match expecting Stuffed Taxidermists to win, and everything would need to go right if the Taxidermists were to progress. Unfortunately, they didn't. Krytenia started the match superbly and outran and outplayed the Stuffed Taxidermists defence, scoring early in the 17th and 26th minutes respectively. Davis and Anderson score those two. Stuffed Taxidermists score in the 35th with a strike from Ronazo, and that strike would assure that the Taxidermists didn't go goals negative. The half time score was 2-1 and Stuffed Taxidermists fans knew it was over, but still held hopes. All hopes were ended when Davis scored in the 53rd. The rest of the match was played out rather solemnly as Stuffed Taxidermists obvoiusly struggled to keep up with a first class team like Krytenia. The last goal was scored in the 84th as Stuffed Taxidermists defence began to tire, and Allen of Krytenia easily outran every defender. The game ended 4-1, with Mark Railes coming out and patting his boys on the back. He joked and smiled, and was available for interview after the match. ST Sports Informer journalist Phil Oakley got some time with the key manager right after the STNSB announced he would lead Stuffed Taxidermists into their next World Cup, the nations third and his third.

Phil: So, Mark, how would you rate the campaign. Do you think the boys did well?
Mark: It was really good. I think everyone went into the cup expecting us not to do much but we put up a fight. I think the draws with Saugeais and Krytenia highlighted that. Machiavelli was a great leader for the team and I think we have a bright future.
Phil: What about David Smith. What is his future at the team?
Mark: Dave really needs to pull his head in. If he doesn't start putting in some real effort, I can't see hime being selected in the future. Maybe being the first overseas transfer in a while for Stuffed Taxidermists has got into his head. I don't know. Nevertheless, he has now returned to his home in Darmen.
Phil: Tell me a little bit about Garry Holes.
Mark: Garry really is getting along well. The staff didn't think he would be at full time selection level but the goalkeeping coach has aid that he's easily our best goalie and will only get better. He is also beginning to become a crowd favourite and definitely has a bright future here.
Phil: So they National Sports Board just announced your contract exstension. How do you feel?
Mark: Great. I was under a lot of scrutiny early in the campaign, and I felt really bad. I wasn't managing well at that point, but I managed to turn it around and now I feel great. I plan to stay with the team for as long as possible. I want to grow old with this team. Maybe I can.
Phil: So what's up next for the team?
Mark: Well, first up we've got the Stuffed-Tamarin Cup, and I'll be announcing the squad for that one soon. It's going to be a massive match and both sides will want to win, but I've got alot of respect for the Tamarindians and I'm sure it will be fair play. Then we've got the Olympics and that should be interesting. After that point we'll take a break and probably play plenty of friendlies until it's time for the World Cup again.
Phil: Well thanks for talking to me Mark. I wish you the best of luck for the future.
Mark: Thanks mate.

by **Khytenna** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 3:58 am

The Play offs beckon Khytenna as they dominate Armorgames

Armorgames: 0

Khytenna: 4
Firestone 10th
Pellett 37th
Thorne 48th
Evelyn 69th

Khytenna make it to the play offs after thrashing Armorgames 4-0, who never stood a chance against Khytenna’s relentless assault, Khytenna’s now have one last hurdle to get over, the world number 20 Bostopia.

It took only 10 minutes for Khytenna to take the lead, it was firestone that delived the goal , it came from a volley after Rusek chipped the ball into the box, it was a tight angle, but Firestone managed to smash it home past the keeper, Firestone jumped in the air in celibration he could not hid his delight.

The second of the game came from Pellett, this time heading in a corner from Jolin, he rose above the defenders and head the ball past the keeper it was a simple goal but it put Khytenna 2-0 ahead in the second half, things where looking up and Khytenna had a massive amount of momentum going into the second half.

This momentum carried on at the start of the half, when the first 3 minutes of the half, Khytenna scored their 3rd and practically booked themselves into the play off’s. the goal came from Captain Thorne, he ran the ball wide and looked to cross in to Firestone, me made a run for himself and tryed a shot, it went post and in, the shot thundered past the keeper and bounced violently past the goal line, Thorne scored a fantastic goal.

The only chance Armorgames have in the second half came from Vey, he took the ball wide and he too made a cracking shot at goal, however Cuyler made the safe of his carrer to keep the ball out, streaching as much as he could and he pushed the ball wide.

Trevor Evelyn got the last and his very first for Khytenna, it was a simple goal where Firestone had got in to the box and made his way towards the keeper, Pellett was well marked but Evelyn made his way to the box with only one player behind him, the pass was made across goal and Evelyn found an open net, all he did was tap it in to score his first.

Khytenna ended the game 4-0 and only missed out on the automatic qualification place by goal difference, but that was expected, Khytenna now have to face Bostopia, a true test to Dresden and Co, who still might have their jobs at the end of the qualification. Khytenna will have a mountain to climb, but the performance they ahve shown over the past 5 games ahve shown they are not a side to be messed with, with a large Khytennan crowd expected to make the jurney to see them, Khytenna will have massive support behind them.

Khytenna go back to the attacking 4-3-3 formation, this means Blaylock has been brought into the attack, Carmichael replace Rusek in midfield and Cuyler stays in goal (as Troy has been ruled out again of the next game) Bostopia play a attacking game, so Khytennia has to watch out to make sure they are not over run.

The play offs will be intense, make sure you stay tuned and watch the action unfold, we know we will.

The team is Below:

Formation: 4-3-3.

GK 19Roland Cuyler (21 Keltyme Foresters)
RB 3. james Ursua (25 Blue bay)
LB 2. Shad Vancil (26 Keltyme Foresters)
DC.15. Oliver Testerman ( 23 Atlético Central, Cafundeu)( vice captain)
DC 17. Nelson Bohannan(26 Alterdamm Merchants, Gray harbour)
RM 7. Casey Thorne(captain) (26 Xephic Reds)
LM 21. Darryl Jolin (24 Xephic Reds)
CM 4. John Carmichael (21 Central FC)
FW 10. Lini Pellett (20 , CCFM, Cafundeu )
FW 9. Fergal Firestone (20 blue bay)
FW 20. Lyle Blaylock (21 Kings’s District Athletic)

by **Kernansquillec** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 5:56 am

FOOTBALL4KERS

LADIES DRAW BUT STAY TOP OF GROUP
On the day that Erathore and Kernansquillec played each other on two pitches, one in Kernansquillec were the men were playing for honor at the World Cup Qualifing, the other in Delaclava were the ladies were playing their closest rivals in group A.

The Green Girls lined up in their green and white kit next to Erathore who were in their dark blue and white kit. Both teams had a perfect record of two wins from two going into this match and only goal difference seperated them in the group.

The match kicked off with both sides testing each other. The coaches had done their home work and the players were looking for the holes in each others defenses to no avail. The first real chance came in the 16th minute when young starlet Maria Dores Rocha sent a shot from 15 yards on target which had to be saved by a fully streched Patience Caron.

Chances followed for both sides afterwas with shots from Pearce, Hilton, Sharp, Maria, and Iria being well saved. But eventualy it was Erathore who got the opener with Iria breaking thought the Kernansquillecan defence with her speed and slotted past a helpless Caron.

The half time break arrived with the Kers still behind but in the first 15 minutes of the second half they were in front. A free kick by Pearce was fired in from 24 yards after Francis was fouled by a rare foul from Nessa. And just minutes after Erathore had kicked off Sharp found herself in some space and fired home past Calmcacil.

It was 2-1 to the Green and Whites but it somehow didn't knock out Erathore who carried on fighting. And with just 10 minutes or so left on the clock Maria got her second of the match when she headed in a cross from Noesa who had made a run down the flank.

Two good teams drew an entertaining game, the scorline being a fair reflexion of the two team's performances.

MEN LOSE FINAL GAME AT WCQ
The men's team however couldn't hold Erathore in their final game of World Cup Qualifing. Erathore ended up winning two nil thanks to goals from Malvolio and Cesc. Kernansquillec played a bellow par game against Erathore who needed to win in order to try and nick the play-off spot from Silver Beach, which they did manage to do.

So Erathore progress to the play-offs as Kernansquillec finish in a respectable 4th place just 5 points from 2nd place. Next time round the Kers will be looking to do a bit better improving on this decent performance, but next up will be the Cup of Harmony which the Green and Whites will be hoping to make a mark on.

Also in other news Kai Holmes clamed the golden boot as he toped the goalscoring charts for the Kers scoring 9 goals in 14 games. Our online readers have also voted for their player of the tournament which goes to goalkeeper Stuart Henderson with Kai Holmes coming in 2nd and Wagbo Harold in 3rd.

COMPETITION RESULTS
The right anwser to our question "At the first edition of the World Cup Crosshill beat Europa Brittania on penalties to win the World Cup. But what was the score after extra time?" was of course 2-2. A total of 712,642 readers entered the competiton and 321,067 of them got the right anwser of C/ 2-2 but sadly only ten of them could win the 20 tickets to the World Cup final all expenses payed.

These winners are: Falerina Ouellet from Kernansquillec City, Francis Lacasse from Southern Deathstar, Granville Beaudouin from Belle-Isle-En-Terre, Roland Loiseau from Erathore, Tilly Marshall and Jan McDonald from Lorient, Kelsie Hill from Louargat, Venerando Cremonesi from New Southampton, Anthony Cobb from Vannes, and Alica Grimwade from Guingamp.

FANCY STUFF

All the info you n00by fans need.

L 1-2 @ Silver Beach (Holmes)
D 2-2 @ Septentrionia (Lilac, Holmes)
D 4-4 vs. Chenkorya (Holmes, Glover, Suutari-Jääsko x2)
L 3-6 @ Dorian and Sonya (Holmes, Suutari-Jääskö, Connor)
D 1-1 @ Nicole Riche (Holmes)
W 4-0 vs. Altimarus (Lilac, Holmes [pen], Boursier, Rolland)
L 0-1 @ Erathore (---)
W 1-0 vs. Silver Beach (Cressac)
W 2-1 vs. Septentrionia (Holmes x2)
W 3-1 @ Chenkorya (Suutari-Jääskö, Connor, Harold)
L 1-7 vs. Dorian and Sonya (Holmes)
W 3-0 vs. Nicole Riche (Suutari-Jääskö x2, Cressac)
W 2-0 @ Altimarus (Holmes, Lilac)
L 0-2 vs. Erathore (---)

#  Group 14 WCQ      P  W  D  L  GF GA  GD PTS
1. Dorian and Sonya 14  12 1  1  40 18 +22 37   Q
2. Erathore         14  8  2  4  30 12 +18 26   P
3. Silver Beach     14  8  2  4  24 16 +8  26   E
4. Kernansquillec   14  6  3  5  27 27 +0  21   E
5. Altimarus        14  4  4  6  15 29 -14 16   E
6. Nicole Riche     14  4  1  9  10 20 -10 13   E
7. Chenkorya        14  3  3  8  17 27 -10 12   E
8. Septentrionia    14  2  2  10 14 28 -14  8   E

Name                 #     Goals
K.Holmes             10    9   Golden Boot WC 56 - KER
K.Suutari-Jääskö     11    6
A.Lilac              9     3
G.Connor             5     2
X.Cressac            6     2
A.Glover             2     1
D. Boursier          4     1
P.Rolland            21    1
W.Harold             19    1

by **Starblaydia** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 7:04 am

It was like so many sports movies that have come before in Starblaydia.

The good guys were a multi-racial, multi-ethnic, mixed-gender team who wore white uniforms, trimmed with the iconic Starblaydi purple. White is the colour of purity, of war and ferocity, making it a perfect colour to complement the patriotism and nobility of purple. The bad guys were all in black, trimmed with blue and its natural evil connotations. In Starblaydi culture, blue stands for Krytenia and Sarzonia; for Valanora and (one half of, at least) Lamoni; for The Lowland Clans and The Belmore Family. Blue has its negative connotations, no less than the intimidation and finality of black.

The sport was football, Starblaydia's national game and something that they'd proved to be the best in the world at in the preceeding hundred and sixty years. Yet, for the five world championships in the trophy cabinet, Starblaydia were not on top of the world, and hadn't gone beyond the last eight of the World Cup for over 25 years. In this scenario, Starblaydia were almost the underdogs, and had to win if they wanted to be certain of going to fight for the world's greatest prize.

The team had a new coach, who had players old and new to choose from. They were still reeling from the defeat at home to this side seven Matchdays earlier. Coming off the back of that, Starblaydia had been knocked out of the Mike Sarzo Memorial Trophy at the Semi-Final stage by Krytenia. Since then, however, Starblaydia had gone on a 100% run, winning all six games to keep up the pressure on Andossa Se Mitrin Vega. For the Vegans, they knew they had Kalonii Se Vega chasing hard on their heels.

The Vegans knew what they were in for when they faced the Raiigar. Their Tidal Surge would be met by the primal fury of a wounded animal. From Ázëwyn Fëanáro leading at the front to Dacil Taniquentar implaccable at the back, Starblaydia were one, united. They had the entire nation behind them, a nation that was used to being the best, to dominate and crush all before them. They were not used to being second in a Qualifying Group table all the way from Matchday Two to Thirteen.

Matchday Fourteen would be different, they promised themselves.

So when the images of Valrauncion standing perfectly still, with his arms outstretched as all was chaos around him, were beamed across the world, then the world would know the truth again. Starblaydia are still not a team, nor a nation, to be taken lightly.

by **North Chicanan** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 8:09 am

North Chicanan Daily Rabbler
Going In with Very Low Expectations

Playoffs Await: Which Is Still A Victory, Right?
Arica Riddler, St. John's

North Chicanan allowed a early goal off a poor clearance and never could get the right rhythm going, as the Hoops fell to second in the group with a 1-0 loss to Pretty Awesome Persons in the final day of qualifying for the World Cup.

Playing after hearing Cosumar thrashed Oiseaui 6-0, the Hoops were aware they needed the win to finish qualification atop the group and avoid the playoffs. However, a poos pass by Phoenix Longstreet in the 6th minute led to the only goal of the match, with the Persons catching the clearing and scoring on Yankee DeMit for the 1-0 lead. The Hoops tried to climb back into the match but were unable to break the Persons defense and saw their 29-point streak broken, along with their direct qualification.

James Pratt, hero for the Hoops in so many matches, clearly looked upset during the press conference following the loss, but said the team was still excited they had one match left to secure a slot in the World Cup. Pratt said the team was focused on the match, but after the weird clearance led to them being down a goal they went more into panic mode to secure the win rather than playing the type of match they had been doing all qualifying - control the tempo and hog the midfield, getting into position to score off the run than forcing the winner in.

Josiah Rhys-Williams agreed the team got a bit off guard and while the loss hurts, he thinks it will help drive the Northerners as they prepare for their playoff match with Erathore.

Hoops Schedule

MD01 W 3-1 Cosumar (at Free State Arena, Provincetown)
MD02 L 2-0 Italian Maifias
MD03 W 3-0 Florinthus (at Cold Harbor Stadium, Port Augustine)
MD04 T 1-1 Carpathia and Ruthenia
MD05 W 3-0 Hockey Canada (at National Square, Southampton)
MD06 W 2-0 Oiseaui
MD07 W 3-1 Pretty Awesome Persons (at Hard Rock Arena, St. John's)
MD08 W 1-0 Cosumar
MD09 T 3-3 Italian Maifias (at Kodiak Memorial Park, Douala)
MD10 W 2-1 Florinthus
MD11 W 1-0 Carpathia and Ruthenia (at Ital Palace, Bishop)
MD12 W 2-1 Hockey Canada
MD13 W 2-1  Oiseaui (Highlands Park, Victoria City)
MD14 L 1-0 at Pretty Awesome Persons
Playoffs v Erathore (@ Duran Palace (51,000), Valanari)

Erathore, the Hoops next opponent, finished second in Group 14 to Dorian and Sonya, finishing 8-2-4 in group play. The team is currently ranked 40th and Rhys-Williams said after the draw the team will be a difficult matchup, but the Hoops would be ready for the challenge.

When looking at the rankings for the upcoming playoffs, we've moved up a bit in the ranks, going from 69th to 45th thanks to our finish. The Township betting houses have been busy since the playoff draw was announced, and many think the Hoops have just enough to make it to the final 32 - with two houses having even odds on qualifications and the highest odds being only at 15-1, with Erathore favored at 10-1 in the match.

Other bettor favorites include: Andossa Se Mitrin Vega, Akbarabad, Sarzonia, Khytenna, Polar Islandstates, Landau Institute, Novikov, Al-Mumtaz and Virabia.

So there appears to be some hope for the National Team, but the public is making sure not go too crazy until a win is secure. And if it doesn't? "Well, I think we can still get the Cup of Nations invite," Rhys-Williams mentioned after the match, "so not all is lost for the rest of the current international season."

The Playoff Match with Erathorn will be televised live on City1, DR and Telesport starting at 5pm, with match time expected to be at 6.

by **Kulverint** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 8:52 am

Kulverint and Swartaz Crash out of World Cup!
Surprise results in group 15!

The results of the games today provided the bad news many in Kulverint had been fearing. The team were not going to qualify for the first time since World Cup 52, coming a narrow third to just beat Swartaz. The team's hopes must now lie with the Cup of Harmony, to be played soon and Kulverint surely hoping to win it with their record.

However, there were some positives. Kulverint won the Union cup both at home and away, drawing 2-2 in Swartaz and winning 2-1 in Kulverint, the team however see this as little consolation.

The table

Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Sarzoclava 14 8 4 2 19 11 +8 28
2 Churchma 14 7 3 4 18 12 +6 24
3 Kulverint 14 7 3 4 16 12 +4 24
4 Swartaz 14 7 2 5 22 21 +1 23
5 Octinstine 14 6 3 5 23 18 +5 21
6 Nitrome Island 14 6 1 7 20 17 +3 19
7 Nothan 14 2 4 8 9 22 −13 10
8 Ma Raque 14 1 4 9 8 22 −14 7

by **Armorgames** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 9:25 am

The meeting was delayed until after the last match.

Armorgames didn't make the World Cup, but that was to be expected. So, this conference was soley devoted to the future of Armorgames football.

I sat at the head of the table. Players were still coming through the door and finding a spot. I then saw Marice Matts come through the door, and I went up to him.

I sent Marice an email yesterday after being informed that he is the head of the Beach Cup coverage for AG. He was going to leave Mangolana today anyways, so his airplane was just rerouted to Valanora.

"Hello Mr. Matts," I said.

"Yeah, yeah hi. I have everything ready for the presentation." He said.

Marice Matts is 28, and has worked with the Armorgames Times along with the Armorgames News and AGSN. He was a pro at what he did, and was quick to the point. He also has a shot temper, and that is how he has bounced around between jobs.

I escorted Marice to his seat, to the right of mine, and he started to set up his computer for the presentation.

The last of the players and coaching staff have came and the dorrs were shut and the lights turned off.

"Hello, I am Marice Matts, I was brought here by your coach to explain stuff about the Beach Cup. So lets start out with what the game is. Beach football is like normal football except that it is played on the beach and is a much faster pace. The games are also much higher scoring. The best player on the Armorgames' beach cup team is Jace Recretor who is the heart and soul of the team. He scored 28 goals in 13 games. I don't know if he would want to leave the BC. The other forward was Donald Schaffer who scored 11 goals and was a pretty decent player. He would be a possibility to come here if the price is right. If I were you, I would try to get Austin Collie. He scored 13 goals as a midfielder, and he started off the year as a backup defensive men. Austin came in as a injury replacement and was moved to midfielder since he had so much talent. Any questions?"

Guy Peffer raised his hand. "As a defensive men myself, I would like to know who would be the best defensive option."

"Ahh, so you think you need defensive help? Well, Colin Lester would be a good option. He is reliable, and scored 5 goals." Said Marice.

I was still looking at the presentation. 28 goals sounded good. Real good. I wanted that Jace guy. But, that will take a lot of money. Austin Collie sounded pretty good too. We did have a gap in the midfield. I asked a question, "How old is Austin Collie?"

"He is 19. Yes I know he is very young," said Marice Matts.

I wasn't going to make up my mind today. And I needed to whole team behind me. I dismissed the conference.

by **Aguazul** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 10:01 am

La Verdad

Sortani "taking the whole metaphor thing a little far"

The national football team defeated Darmen to end the qualifying stage of World Cup 56. They finish the qualifying stage on forty points, second to The Babbage Islands overall, and with an excellent goal difference of +45.

As group champions, Aguazul have qualified directly for the cup proper (and, in fact, had their spot clinched as recently as matchday twelve). Given that, there seems to be some concern in the clubhouse over Pelayo Sortani's "obsession" with "the whole stupid hill metaphor."

"He keeps going on, like, Darmen, they're this...I don't even know what they are, they're not even that good, just the team we're playing," said captain Juan Esteban Oraglio. "But as soon as they get mentioned he starts going on about how qualification, the whole campaign, right, is like a hill. A really big long hill that there are, uh, different ways up or whatever? But you still have to climb it, and it's this long thing. And then at the top, there's like a gate."

At this point, Sortani angrily interrupted to point out that the gate "is not at the top of the stupid big hill, it's at the bottom of the stupid big hill, so that even when you walk past it you're not there, there's still that giant hill. And it represents...something.

I don't think my team is respecting me," he added with a nervous glance.

"Anyway," said Oraglio, "he keeps going on about it as if it had something to do with Darmen or whatever. But obviously it doesn't, because we clinched two matches ago. This one wasn't a big deal. A lot of the backups played, even. And still he's going on about the stupid hill. You'd think he'd have done it back when we were still technically competing for something. But it's only now."

Sosimo Lissón rushed to add that Sortani was still "a really good coach," and had been all through the qualifiers. "He runs practices well, nobody gives him trouble, he mixes up the players all the time so we can fit with whoever. Changes up formations, sometimes. It's just that, now, he's pushing this hill thing way too far."

"Unless," Oraglio mused, "he actually wanted us to unite in something. Like, thinking he's kind of lost it.

Then he's a total success."

(Nolan 71; Morayta 19, Nadol 31, Cortez 54, Lissón 82)

by **Cafundeu** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 11:37 am

After the impressive failure of Cafundéu in reaching the World Cup, marking only the second time the Monopolists won't participate in the main competition, the leaders of the CCFM, reunited at the association's headquarters in Lasft, commented about the episode:

"Alright, there goes our position in the rankings, which wasn't good for a start."

"So, what we do now? We must prepare for the Cup of Harmony, which we'll be the main favourites to win, just like the last time. We need to send a message to the Cafundelense supporters that we are still strong and will return to do well, especially with the possibility to have the next World Cup here in our country."

"We'll do the same as always."

"Blame the coach."

"Yes, it's all the coach's fault."

"So Avarel is out?"

"Yes, we'll replace him... but with the Cafundelense league already started, we can't take someone from one of the main clubs of the country, and some wouldn't accept to leave a top Cafundelense club to take our National Team..."

"Let's get someone else then... perhaps we hire some assistant coach from a club, or maybe a sports commentator, or a former player."

"All good options. But the only thing decided right now is that..."

"All the responsibility for the team's success or failure will be of the coach."

"Worse is that Landau Institute is close to qualification. Their public relations and spokesperson is currently in a deep sleep, but they seem to be performing well even with this issue."

by **Valladares** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 12:44 pm

V-Sport - The Leading Sport Magazine in Valladares

Sarzonia, The Final Obstacle

METROPOLIS (VP) - With the play-off spot already sealed after the 1-0 win against Mangolana in Carloburgo, and with Delaclava already qualified to the World Cup, there was not much to fight for in the last matchday of Group 8. The last match for the valladars seemed to be the easiest one: Les Gones travelled to Alexanderburn to face the local team (who had already been doomed to end in last place) with a B-squad. With the situation already defined for the eight teams in the group, José Marín decided to give some rest to his usual starters, in order to protect them from any eventual injuries and bookings which could made them miss the crucial play-off match against another second-placed team for a berth in the next World Cup.

Should we talk about the match against Alexanderburn? After the surprising draw they snatched from Bezieres in our previous match, this time, both teams offered a dull show with a boring first half and 30 soporific minutes in the second half. It was more than clear the home team was fighting for nothing (nor even their honor, since it seemed to be unimportant for them), while the "Alternate Gones" seemed to be happy with snatching a scoreless stalemate since qualification to the play-off at the very least was already sealed with one match in advance. The first half between Alexanderburn and Valladares had few things to feature, with a shot by Patrick Leclerc that crashed with the crossbar being the only important offensive action for Les Gones during the first 45 minutes.

If the first half was bad, most of the second half was even worse. Forwards crashing against the rival defenses, disorganized and congested midfields and two goalkeepers who seemed to be two people more among the few public present at the stadium was the common denominator during the following half an hour. However, and fortunately for the valladar interests, two individualities during the final 10 minutes of the match helped the "Alternate Gones" win in Alexanderburn. Yoan Gignac (82') and Jean-Pierre de Roux (86') were the scorers for Valladares, while Tristen van der Pol in the 89th minute scored the lone goal for Alexanderburn.

How did things end in Group 8?

Group 8 Standings:

Pos Team               P  W  D  L For  Ag +/- Pts
 1 Delaclava          14 11  1  2  25  10 +15  34
 2 Valladares         14  8  4  2  26  12 +14  28
 3 Ocel0t             14  6  4  4  20  13  +7  22
 4 Meguroko           14  5  2  7  13  24 -11  17
 5 The Yorozuya       14  4  4  6  14  17  -3  16
 6 Sargossa           14  4  3  7  12  20  -8  15
 7 Mangolana          14  2  7  5   8  11  -3  13
 8 Alexanderburn      14  1  5  8   6  17 -11   8

Qualified to the World Cup
Qualified to the play-off
Eliminated

Sarzonia, the next rival...

With all the 20 automatic qualifiers to the World Cup (plus the hosts, Valanora and Sorthern Northland) and the 20 teams who will see their agony extended for one more match already decided, the World Cup 56 Organising Committee drew the 10 matchups for the qualifying play-off. Among the most interesting matches for this stage we can find Tretskivucia vs. Andossa Se Mitrin Vega, Akbarabad vs. Mytannion, Polar Islandstates vs. Osarius and...Valladares vs. Sarzonia. Yes, you've just read it, Valladares vs. Sarzonia.

Sarzonia, who are in the brink of missing their second final stage in a row, ended in third place of Group 4, ahead of Cabric and behind the Babbage Islands, top seeds in that group (who won all their qualifying matches), while the Valladars ended behind Sarzonia's neighbour, Delaclava, in Group 8. Both nations have had their history against each other, and although the head-to-head clearly favors Sarzonia, this will surely be the tightest match both teams will have ever played against each other. Like all other play-off matches, this match will be played in a neutral venue, that neutral venue being Hellgate in Raynor City, Valanora in this case. This time, losing is not an option for Valladares if they don't want their streak of four consecutive qualifications to World Cup finals being cut...while at the same time, the Stars have no option either, if they don't want a second elimination in a row from the finals.

PRE-QUAL: Valladares 1-5 Bears Armed - Venue: Albert Field, Edmonton (Cap. 20,000)
PRE-QUAL: Bergnovinaia 0-0 Valladares - Venue: Somewhere in Bergnovinaia

MD1: Delaclava 1-0 Valladares - Venue: Somewhere in Delaclava
MD2: Valladares 3-1 Ocel0t - Venue: Alain Tramontin Stadium, Eterna City (Cap. 55,000)
MD3: The Yorozuya 1-1 Valladares - Venue: Somewhere in The Yorozuya
MD4: Valladares 5-1 Meguroko - Venue: Estádio Estadual Armando Bozelli, Campo Grande (Cap. 50,000)
MD5: Valladares 2-0 Sargossa - Venue: Estadio de la Riviera, Slateport (Cap. 40,000)
MD6: Mangolana 1-2 Valladares - Venue: Stadium, Mangolana City, Mangolana
MD7: Valladares 1-1 Alexanderburn - Venue: Stade Jules Picot, Bezieres (Cap. 38,000)

MID-QUAL: Valladares 3-3 Whirl Islands (Heritage Cup) - Venue: Arena do Oriente, Chiquito (Cap. 37,000)

MD8: Valladares 1-2 Delaclava - Venue: Alexander I National Stadium, Swangard-Metropolis (Cap. 85,000)
MD9: Ocel0t 0-0 Valladares - Venue: Somewhere in Ocel0t
MD10: Valladares 1-1 The Yorozuya - Venue: Estadio Gobernador Villa, Pradera (Cap. 25,572)
MD11: Meguroko 1-5 Valladares - Venue: Somewhere in Meguroko
MD12: Sargossa 1-2 Valladares - Venue: ediraf Arena, Soluca, Sargossa (Cap. 105,000)
MD13: Valladares 1-0 Mangolana - Venue: Olympic Stadium, Carloburgo (Cap. 62,000)
MD14: Alexanderburn 1-2 Valladares - Venue: Somewhere in Alexanderburn

PLAY-OFF: Valladares vs. Sarzonia - Venue: Hellgate, Raynor City, Valanora (Cap. 54,000)

by **Mytannion** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 1:12 pm

написана для людей, написанный людей
Napisana dlya lyudyeĭ , Napisannyĭ lyudyeĭ.
Written for the People, by the People.

'Captain Fantastic leads the way.'

by Vladimir Hyralov

We went into the final match day, knowing nothing less than a win would be enough for us to qualify for the World Cup. We did the job brilliantly, lead by Robin Hjik who stood in as team captain for Jan Mufiak who had picked up a knock in the pre-match warm-up. This game featured a side which was very much changed from the last game. Theo Wekkler really did ring the changes in this game as he changed seven players, with only Robin Hjik, Rudi Holzman, Swen Kislasson and Filip Bosc retaining their place in the team. Niek van der Smeejin came in to replace the team captain, Jan Mufiak - who, as aforementioned did pick up an injury - and van der Smeejin really did do, a very good job as we ended up winning the game 2-0 over Lesser Cotswalds. This was enough for us to qualify for the World Cup play-offs, where we've been given a tough tie against #24 ranked in the world, Akbarabad. Newmanistan, evidently - you will have picked up from us saying we've qualified - lost against Queer Poco el Mono Ara, who did us a fine job and helped us out truly - as a regional friend by beating Newmanistan.

Robin Hjik took the captain's armband and truly lived up to the values this brings. He played with pride and leadership, and lead the team forward - even as a 24-year old - he showed qualities of maturity that belied his years. He isn't as young as he once was, obviously - wow, that really was a stupid thing to say... But, yeah - he's still quite young and should lead this national side for years to come. He's played in four WC cycles, in one World Cup proper and could make it two if he manages to lead the team to another victory against Akbarabad. The play-offs really are a lottery though, and mean that anything could happen - we'd prefer if it was little bit more planned than this - but it's on neutral ground, and so neither team will have an advantage of home support. Which probably - in fact - means we'll have a slight advantage, because our fans are truly fanatical wherever they are in the world. Of course, they cause trouble too - which isn't too amazing, but according to the WA Census, we have the most rebellious youth in our region - which includes them thieving, consuming copious amounts of alcohol and sometimes even using drugs. As a Mytanar, I see nothing to bad with this - it's their own life, let them do it, let them get in trouble for theft and let them damage their body with drugs and alcohol. I don't care. But apparently, these things occuring in a persons' youth means that our fans are even worse when they're older - even more rebellious.

Anyway, rambling.

Yeah, we beat Lesser Cotswalds - cruised past them in fact. Robin Hjik showed his leadership qualities and showed his team-mates exactly what to do as he lashed a shot from outside the 18-yard box into the goal. It was a great goal and the quality that Hjik displayed showed how big a star he is in Mytannion, and how important he is to both the national side and to his club side, Atletik Thessia. Although, with Atletik Thessia not performing so well in international competitions recently, he may be on the move. His club isn't the best off financially, but, Robin Hjik is extremely loyal to his club. But if the big teams come calling from Cafundeu and the higher ranked leagues - he could be on the move, easily. Hell, even if a team from Polar Islandstates or Astograth or somewhere similar came calling; and there were perhaps, friends in these teams - he could even end up going there.

Imre Ulsson grabbed our other goal, the big Sparta striker has come off the back of a good season in the Potazzi Serie A (the Cotdelapomais top division), and has transferred this form from the domestic level to the global level. The 26-year old really showed the critics that Theo Wekkler was right to pick him in his squad for the World Cup qualifying cycle. He got his 2nd goal of the cycle, in his 20th international game. The goal wizard - as he was described by the Cotdelapomais press - really did well to find a way through the Lesser Cotswalds defence in the second half. Filip Bosc played a great ball into his feet, the pass was almost laser-guided and found him expertly. Imre Ulsson was in a bit of a hole though, surrounded by three defenders. He had quick feet though, and used them to perfect effect. He flicked the ball past one defender and then used his strength and pace to knock the ball between the other two defenders. He was through on goal, and then smashed one into the bottom corner.

The fans went wild, as Imre Ulsson rushed away to the fans who were roaring in the Kippax End of Maine Road, in Thessia. The fans mobbed him, and after the game - the fans even touted him as being the one to replace the outgoing Ure Rundschau - who was the starting striker for the national side in this game. Rundschau was given a standing ovation at the end of the game by the Atletik faithful, who had evidently used their season tickets to get into the national team game. Rundschau is leaving for Queer Poco el Mono Ara though, now, and for Augustus - for a fee of M(C)15 million. A big money move for the guy, who will now certainly be in with a chance of winning more than he was at Atletik - after all, they haven't won much in the past few seasons, and don't really look like they will. Their defence is aging a bit now, though, their midfield is packed full of stars and up-top, they look in good shape - and it is rumoured that they are looking at Polarian youngster Lewis Bergen to replace Ure Rundschau, Bergen certainly looks like a talent, too.

Anyway, enough about our club football - we now have to face Akbarabad in the play-off. This, will be a very, very tough game to say the least. After all, they're ranked nearly 20 whole places above us in the World Rankings - which shows their quality immediately. They are - in fact - 19 positions ahead of us, and have some great players in their side. They finished 2nd in Group 9, managing to account 32 points on their way to the play-offs. This total would have been good enough to win some other groups, but the fact that they had Bears Armed in their group meant otherwise. They won 10, drew 2 and lost 2 - their last fixture was against Utmost Upright, who came into the World Cup from nowhere and have done startlingly well. Utmost Upright beat them 4-0, a landslide margin of victory over a side that they surely could not have expected to of beat.

We play Akbarabad in at Artani - a 74,000 capacity stadium in the city of Mar Sara. Which according to our geographers is a place in Valanora, who are one of the hosts of the World Cup - as we know. It'll be a great game and we need to make sure as many Mytanar fans get there as possible to support the side and roar them on to a victory which will mean we'll qualify for our second straight World Cup proper in two cycles. That will certainly be a great achievement, if we don't beat them - we go to Cup of Harmony, which looks a bit strange this year as the giants of football, Cafundeu are there. Wow, this cycle sure has been a bit strange.

We think the dangerman for Akbarabad is Zahid Hassan - the forward who plays for Jonastown United in Queer Poco el Mono Ara, who are seemingly going nowhere currently - but just sitting in the middle of the league and being comfortable with that. However, Hassan is certainly a talent we'll have to watch out for, he's creative and can also play attacking midfielder, meaning that Akbarabad can change formation quite comfortably in a game - we'll have to watch out for that and we'll certainly have to mark this man tightly, lest his creativity be unleashed upon our defence and therefore allow them to score a goal.

Wow, I sounded a bit like one of them Dreamed Realm monks then.. Strange.

Anyway, I'm off now. Good luck to the Foxes, or Foxs - as the World Assembly prefers to call the plural form of our national animal..

by **Andossa Se Mitrin Vega** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 3:50 pm

Stars Prove Why They Are The Greatest of All Time
We Will Get Another Shot at Them No Matter Who Stands In the Way

Mace: Well I'm an axe grinder Piledriver
Mother says that I never never mind her
Got no brains I'm insane
Teacher says that I'm one big pain

Kylek: This sucks ass. A playoff match to get in to the World Cup? Ugh.

Jonasei: Yeah. But it is something we have to do.

Kymy: It still sucks, especially since I have seen the list of teams that did get in.

Mace: I'm like a laser 6-streamin' razor
I got a mouth like an alligator
I want it louder
More power
I'm gonna rock ya till it strikes the hour

Laia: and Treskawhatever again. You never know what these guys are about, not even as much as a roster to go by

Fekelii: How do we prepare for a side that gives us no information?

Kymy: We play our game. Do what we want. Then brag about it incessantly.

Mace: Bang your head! Metal Health'll drive you mad
Band your head! Metal Health'll drive you mad

Akaok: Let us simply crush them into submission.

Jonasei: Works for me since they are too chicken-shit to even let us see their roster

Laia: This is the time for us to prove we are as good as we looked during qualification.

Mace: Well I'm remonstrated
Outdated I really want to be over-rated
I'm a finder and I'm a keeper
I'm not a loser and I ain't no weeper

Sanlioch: This is our time. I want another shot at the Purple Punks.

Fekelii: Me too. We should have won the last one.

Kymy: No. They earned that win.

Mace: I got the boys to make the noise
Won't ever let up
Hope it annoys you
Join the pack
Fill the crack
Well now you're here
There's no way back

Jonasei: Time to get ready to rumble. One match to go.

Kymy: Has anyone notices Mace today?

Kylyk: Trying not to look. Zebra striped spandex is not his style.

Mace: Bang your head! Metal Health'll drive you mad
Bang your head! Metal Health'll drive you mad

Metal Health'll cure your crazy
Metal Health'll cure your mad
Metal Health is what we all need
It's what you have to have

Laia: Spandex should be outlawed.

Sanlioch: and where did the pink feather boa come from?

Kymy: But the song is a better choice.

Mace: Bang your head
Wake the dead
We're all metal mad
It's all you have
So bang your head
And raise the dead
Oh yeah!
Metal Health
It's not too bad
Bad Bad

Laia: Only if ya want your ears to bleed.

Jonasei: And a desire to wear chaps on stage.

Kylek: Time to get ready for Tretskiwhatever.

Mace: Bang your head! Metal Health'll drive you mad
Band your head! Metal Health'll drive you mad

Oh get your straight-jackets on tonight Oh
Bang your head! Metal health'll drive you mad
The bad boys are gonna set you right Rock on Rock on Rock on
Bang your head! Metal health'll drive you mad
Bang your head!

by **Mangolana** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 5:20 pm

Mangolana Gazzette
Mangolana Soccer Association Hires Mikael Svensson for national team

Days after the firing of former Mangolana manager Sacha Chrieten, the Mangolana soccer association has hired former Volerander, IFK Göteborg and Swartaz manager Mikael Svensson to replace him. In a press conference called this afternoon, the Mangolana Soccer association leaders all echoed each others comments when they said that Mikael was the man for the job. "He comes from a nation that is ranked very high in the KPB rankings. (World rankings for soccer) And has shown his skill at all levels of the game, from his playing days with IFK Goteborg, to his managing days at the divisional level, and his days at the national level."

With the Cup of Harmony, (CoH), quickly approching, The Mangolana soccer association, who did say that they will accept an invite if they are invited, hurried to hire a new manager so that they would have enough time to evaluate the players eligible to play on the Mangolana national team, and put together a competitive team. Though don't expect much for the forseeable future if you ask new manager Mikael Svensson.

"Thes team is, wek on the offensive side of the ball when to try to fo-Kus on defense. Then when you try to fo-Kus on offense, they become wek on defense. Now yu try to fo-Kus on bying critical on buth, but yu end up wek on both. I, and my newy hir-ed steff will evaluat the yuth of thes contri."

Now as you can see, his language is not that fluent yet, so it could take some time for us to understand some of the things he says. Though he has already made a big splash with announcement that all staff from all Mangolana national teams will be replaced, including the U-21 staff.

by **Astograth** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 5:47 pm

He moved as if in a dream. His vision was blurry, his limbs exhausted, barely capable of walking. After a few steps he fell to the ground, the rough gravel scraping his hands and knees. He started to pick himself up, and booted feet entered his field of vision. Two pairs of strong arms lifted him to his feet, and helped him to the dark shape that upon closer inspection turned out to be a helicopter. So that's what the loud sound was.

He was seated, and a coat draped over him. Someone spoke to him, but he wasn't paying attention. His head hung low, his eyelids drooped. More people climbed aboard, some of them sitting beside him, others across.

The doors shut with what he presumed was a loud sound, because at that point everything seemed muted and afar. The helicopter lifted, and from the window he saw the burning coals of the shack, then the beach, then the whole bay. The sun's reflection on the water was the last thing he saw before he closed his eyes and sleep mercifully took over.

They were safe.

Astograth 4 - Vantelira 0
TREKO LEAVES THE NATIONAL TEAM

Following Astograth's emphatic, if meaningless, win over Vantelira at Ituraitz last night, national team manager Gartzen Treko announced he will not be renewing his contract. "I feel I have completed a cycle here, and at seventy-seven years of age it is no longer advisable to maintain this level of activity," he indicated. The news was met with surprise by both the players and the FAF, who were reportedly in talks with his agent to prolong his four-year contract. "He gave no signs of wanting to leave, we didn't expect it at all," said iconic striker Dei Ormache, "He's been a great teacher and role model for all of us," he added.

Treko has been in charge of the national team since its formation, approximately four years ago, and carried it through the 42nd Baptism of Fire, the World Cup 55 qualifiers, the 47th Cup of Harmony and the present World Cup qualifiers. From 89 matches played, 26 were won and 21 drawn, with 42 losses and a goal difference of -24.

Speculation is rife as to his replacement, but managers Aiza Sein of Iturributa United and Erruki Abaroa of Royal Rumiatzi have already pointed out they have recently signed new contracts they fully intend to see out. The most likely candidates are the relatively young Domeka Iriarte of Ituraitz FC, Berbiz Munduarte of South Factory and Egoi Azarola of Sporting Iturributa, though the FAF declined to issue any comments as did the managers and their agents. It is not believed that any foreign coaches will be approached by the Federation, due to knowledge of the language and the league being essential for the job.

by **Al-Mumtaz** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 5:47 pm

The Holy Phoenix on the Play-off

Al-Mumtaz clinched one spot on the play-off match as predicted at the beginning of the qualification.
At the group 16, Cassadaigua got a ticket to World Cup proper and Al-Mumtaz got the second spot and got a play-off match.
This is the list of WC 56 Qualification Match for Al-Mumtaz :
----------------------------------------------------------
MD 1 : Al-Mumtaz 2-0 Oakow and Norkyin
MD 2 : Al-Mumtaz 3-0 Camerania
MD 3 : Ketharnia 1-1 Al-Mumtaz
MD 4 : Al-Mumtaz 1-0 Sibirsky
MD 5 : Cassadaigua 4-1 Al-Mumtaz
MD 6 : Jimmer Fredette 1-3 Al-Mumtaz
MD 7 : Al-Mumtaz 2-2 Fellow Citizens
MD 8 : Ooakow and Norkyin 0-6 Al-Mumtaz
MD 9 : Camerania 0-1 Al-Mumtaz
MD 10 : Al-Mumtaz 5-0 Ketharnia
MD 11 : Sibirsky 2-3 Al-Mumtaz
MD 12 : Al-Mumtaz 1-2 Cassadaigua
MD 13 : Al-Mumtaz 2-1 Jimmer Fredette
MD 14 : Fellow Citizens 2-1 Al-Mumtaz
---------------------------------------------
The Holy Phoenix got this result thanks to the star player of Al-Mumtaz :

Ismet Hugo, The Goal Machine

Batutah, The Captain

Mark Hamsik, The Goalkeeper

Hideyoshi Kazuo, The Godspeed Winger

And the play-off match for Al-Mumtaz will be Pays de Horreur , will be played at Donna Cathedral. Let's hope the star will be shine again.
Don't miss it, guys.
LET THE HOLY PHOENIX FLY AS HIGH AS HE CAN!!

by **Ocel0t** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 7:16 pm

OCEL0T SPORTS NET

The Ocel0t national team was playing for pride in a 3-1 win over 10-man Meguroko, having been eliminated following a 2-0 loss to Delaclava and watching Valladares claim the playoff spot. The spots delivered a solid performance nonetheless against a spirited side from Meguroko, despite the absence of playmaker Fluffy Guarcouff, who was red carded against Alexanderburn.

The game started quickly for both teams, with El Ghanasay seeing a shot whistle past the post from long-range and Meguroko being thwarted by a fine save from Gorduchev. Play was aggressive, and in the 15th minute, Enevoldsen felled a Meguroko midfielder with a harsh challenge, receiving a yellow card in the process. Enevoldsen saw a close-range effort deflected by the Meguroko keeper minutes later, and the resulting corner saw a goal scramble in which El Ghanasay, Bilaydinetov, and Assou-Bassong were denied before the Meguroko keeper cleared it. Despite Ocel0t's pressure, it was Meguroko who claimed the lead in the 31st minute, with a midfielder executing a perfect free kick to send the ball into the top corner of the net. They did not maintain their lead for long, however, as Vrhovnek threaded a perfect pass to El Ghanasay inside the box, leaving the striker to tap the ball past the keeper and into the back of the net. Ocel0t stepped up their attack, coming close to scoring again with a header from Bilaydinetov that rattled against the crossbar, but the Meguroko defense remained firm, and they held off Ocel0t until half-time with the game tied. As the second half-began, Ocel0t were slow to find their footing again, and Meguroko controlled the game, seeing two close-range shots saved by the alert Gorduchev. Ocel0t began to wake up in their attack, and the tide quickly turned again. In the 56th minute, Cristian gave the spots the lead with a long-range shot that the keeper fumbled into the goal. Things worsened for Meguroko in the 60th minute, as a midfielder was straight red carded after a shocking tackle on Yamamoto which saw him hobble off to be replaced by Touré. The new substitute made an early impact, scoring a magnificent goal minutes later after Silvo put him through. Touré megged the keeper and left the last defender for dead before tapping in the open net. The game was already won for Ocel0t, and it remained uneventful with the exception of a low shot on goal by Meguroko until the final whistle. Ocel0t finished third in group 8, one away from a playoff spot, while Meguroko finished in fourth behind the spots.

OCEL0T 3-1 MEGUROKO
Scorers:

Unknown 31'
El Ghanasay 34'
Cristian 56'
Touré 65'

by **Polar Islandstates** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 7:49 pm

Finn Henriksen opened his eyes. His dreams, he'd had such vivid dreams. He breathed in, and immediately noticed despite the fogginess in his mind that there was a clear absence of salt tang in the air. What was that? Detergent? Finn had had wisdom teeth out as a teenager, and he recognised this fogginess as a painkiller induced high. Hospital. He was in a hospital. Dumbly, his brain attempted to process this information, in particular the fact that he was no longer stuck on that island, but to no end result.

Clearly, somebody had noticed he was awake, as people were rushing to his side. Voices were talking at him, but he couldn't decipher any of them, nor recognise them. And he closed his eyes again as a wash of fatigue flooded his body. Visions swam in front of his eyelids, a rock, a fire, a helicopter, a seaplane. Oh my god, the seaplane. In a rush, memories came back to Finn as he lay there in the hospital bed.

A seaplane crash in that storm. His arm was hurt. A quick flex of the muscle below the sheets showed that this was still the case, though the swelling had decreased visibly. The others, were the others okay? Finn opened his eyes again and looked around the room, his blurred vision not picking up on any facial features that he could recognise. He hoped they were okay.

More people tried talking to him, but again the voices muddled like radio chatter from one a conference of Charlie Brown's teachers , meaning not much could be worked out. Smiling apologetically, at the white blobs looking down on him, it occurred to Finn that he may not even be in a Polarian hospital, a thought that was interrupted as an itch on his leg demanded immediate attention. Reaching down with his arm to scratch his shin, Finn stopped dead in his tracks as his fingers went straight through where his leg supposedly was. Finn tried again, not wishing to fear the inevitable.

He looked under the covers, and began to sob. One leg was missing. Now he remembered, he'd broken it, you could see the bone through the skin, and clearly the hospital staff had been unable to save it.

Finn wasn't sure if he'd rather be dead. He might be safe, but his career was over.

* * * * * * *

Call me Ishmael.

And call us almost there guys... Errinundera are holding us so far, but all we need is a goal to make certain of it. If Errinundera score now, things will be very different indeed. But wa-, hang on, I'm trying to overhear something from-

Kagdazka and Pazhujebu are losing! That would seal things for the Terns even if Errinundera do score now...

Although mind you, I think SKye fancies sealing this playoff spot all by himself you know, Skye on the ball, taking on the Errinundera defenders with a series of dazzling step overs before laying it back to a well positioned Hansen. Hansen, to Bielsen, Bielsen now plays it up to van Jendrisen, van Jendrisen dummies the cross from deep and instead knocks it forwards along the ground, Skye... Skye... SKYEE...??

SKYYEEEEEE!!!

"SSKKWWAAARRRRRRRKKKK!!!"

We're not there yet guys, but this is a huge step closer. The Terns are going to the playoffs...

* * * * * * *

Starting line-up for next match against: Osarius
------------------------- Gammel -------------------------
------ Nikkel ----- Berg --- Marek ----- Pekarik ------
--------- van Jendrisen --- Hauge --- Bielsen ---------
--------------------- van Sorensen ----------------------
--------------- Skye ------ Ackermann-Finn -----------

by **Valanora** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 9:51 pm

I say, I say, what is being cut off over the horizon?

Oh my, it's the playoff results!

by **Utmost Upright** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 10:02 pm

Powell stars as Utmost Upright makes Akbarabad suffer
by Friar Woodward

Last night Utmost Upright closed out their World Cup 56 qualifying campaign by finishing off an impressive sweep of 25th ranked Akbarabad by making them suffer to the tune of 4-0. Granted, Akbarabad did rest many of their starters in preparation for their qualifier for the World Cup finals. It was still an impressive victory for 215th ranked Utmost Upright.

Ryan Powell, who is expected to star at forward for the Utmost Upright National Team for many years to come, was given his first start and did not disappoint scoring in both the 38th and 86th minutes to lead the attack. Father Martin and Friar Timothy also scored goals for Utmost Upright, who also played some of their bench players in the finale.

Brother Thomas and Cardinal David were both given starts in the final match for Utmost Upright in World Cup 56, and both contributed assists. The only player on the Utmost Upright roster not to get a start during qualifying was wingback Reverend Noah, who made two appearances as a substitute.

It is expected that Utmost Upright are likely to receive an invitation to the 48th Cup of Harmony tournament. What is unknown is if Pope Peter and Cardinal Moses will decide to make roster changes to add some of the players that will appear on the roster for the 57th World Cup that are currently in training at a private, secure location within Utmost Upright.

Pope Peter leaned back in his chair. “Sister Sophia,” he called out. “Please come here immediately.”

Sister Sophia calmly, but quickly strode in with her notepad and pen. “Yes, my Pope?” she asked as she curtseyed slightly.

“Place a memo on Cardinal Moses’ desk asking that he come to my office as soon as he returns from his trip to the secure location. I wish to discuss his findings with him and how we might be able to make use of them sooner rather than later.”

Sister Sophia wrote down the request. “It will be done immediately, sir.”

Pope Peter smiled. “We exceeded my expectations. We even had a chance to qualify for the World Cup in our first attempt. We’ll be better off in the long run for the suffering we’ve endured now. However, there are far better and more fruitful ways for Cardinal Paul and the rest of the team to be spending their time than playing in the World Cup every four years. From what I’ve heard and the early reports I’ve seen, we’ll be in much better shape with young men trained to play in the world’s game than with a group of older religious leaders.”

Sister Sophia smiled and curtseyed again before leaving the office to complete her task.

by **Churchma** » Thu Aug 04, 2011 10:50 pm

Churchma Gators WC 56 Coverage
Gators Qualify for World Cup 56 in Dramatic Fashion
Justin Bruce, BSRN

LONGVIEW, Valanora- At a time like this I just want to scream, WE FINALLY QUALIFIED FOR THE WORLD CUP! It took four attempts or 16 years for our nation to finally rise to this level of play. Sure, we've had a limited amount of glory in this sport, seeing as how we won the Cup of Harmony 45. But that great victory was just over a decade ago and we only have one player left from that team (Jack Durman). After the ground work from players like Antonio Shoop, the Gators have finally qualified for a World Cup. The way that they did so will most likely go down in the history books as the greatest victory we've ever recorded.

For the casual fan, coming in second place in your group may seem like enough to make your team qualify for the World Cup, but they were quickly schooled on how this World Cup would run when they found out the Gators were to play Landau Institute to qualify for the Group Stages of the cup. When you look at these two nations, it's most likely expected that Landau Institute would come away with the victory, because they've "been there and done that" before. But let's not forget the second half run that the Gators made to get to this stage.

After the first half of group play, Churchma found themselves fighting from their back with a 3-1-3 record. Aside from a slip up versus Octinstine, the Gators made it through the second half of group play without a loss. The final two games- at Sarzoclava and at home against Swartaz- were to determine the fate of this team. Many experts believed two wins were necessary, but a draw versus Sarzoclava and a dominating 3-0 win versus Swartaz proved to be enough to get the Gators into second place in Group 15- for a chance to qualify for the first time in history.

...to be continued

by **The Archregimancy** » Fri Aug 05, 2011 3:03 am

PRESS RELEASE

MONASTIC OUTREACH PROGRAMME RELEASES NEW 'CARTOON'

The Monastic Outreach Programme [MOP] of the Archregimancy Department for Foreign Relations with Unbelievers [ADFRU] today announced that it was releasing a cartoon designed to draw heathen football fans towards Orthodoxy.

"It has come to our attention that the nations of Polar Islandstates and Virabia have gained much attention from many impressionable youth via the medium of cartoons. We wish to reach out to these self-professed 'cool kids' by showing them that Orthodoxy can be fun too!" said a senior archimandrite, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Both MOP and ADFRU forcefully deny that they had completely misunderstood the cartoon format by presenting what one source in the Holy Empire has apparently described as "overly-earnest and humour-free misuse of the Holy Icons". "Of course they are earnest and free of cheap laughs" said the archimandrite; "isn't that the whole point?"

by **Saugeais** » Fri Aug 05, 2011 9:35 am

Manager Benoit Howard stood in front of his team after the 1-0 victory over The Kiaser Colonies. He felt mixed emotions about it; on one hand, he was glad the team pulled off one final win in the qualifying stage, but on the other, he was disappointed they didn't move on to the Finals. He cleared his throat to signal everyone's attention. "I'm really proud of what this team has done in the past few years. We had our shares of ups and downs. Fortunately, this season had a lot of ups. From the very start with the scheduled friendlies that we rolled through, I , and I bet you all did too, thought this team had a strong chance to make the finals. Krytenia was going to be a tough team on both sides of the ball, and they showed that in our matches against them. But we came storming back, first with draws, then with wins. I like wins, everyone likes wins. I just wish we could've had more. The second half of the schedule was much more turbulent, and I can't see why. We were gunning for a playoff spot, and you all knew you had to play your damndest to get into their. Of course Krytenia was there to stop us, but Landau and Rhodesiah should've been easy targets like in the first half of qualifying!"

Benoit paused for a moment to catch his breath. "It's no use arguing about it now. We're out and nothing can change that. This time four years from now, the lineup is going to change. We are going to lose some big names. i know Cane Pror said he was going to retire before the qualifying started, but to see him go down due to injury, my heart goes out to him." Benoit scanned the room and pointed out the people who were retiring. "Monet, Claude, Dombrowski. You all will be turned 40 around that time. Whether or not your ability stays with you remains to be seen; I will keep close eye on you and monitor your progress. You all will still be in the national pool, but I don't have plans for you as of this moment." The players started to murmur. "As for the rest of you, you showed great talent out there. I want to keep all of you, but sadly, I just can't. Until the next competition, consider yourselves out of the lineup until further notice." And with that Benoit turned and walked to his office. A shake up in the lineup? That's only happened once before, four years ago to be exact. Only time will tell if Benoit makes good on his word to re-arrange the national team before the Cup of Harmony.

by **Kalumba** » Fri Aug 05, 2011 5:33 pm

The Herald

Report by Wrex Tarr

Kalumba finish fifth. Not exactly what we were looking for from our final game but after the conclusion of the World Cup 56 qualifiers we have risen from 175th in the world rankings to 84th. This is a giant leap and puts us behind only a few of the other first time nations. Hopefully if we are included in the prestigeous Cup of Harmony, we may rise even further in the world rankings, but whatever happens we are emerging as a small but noticable force of world football.

Our final group game was a dour draw with little happening for either team. Both sides had little more to play for than pride, and despite this both fielded weakened sides without the best players. As such no true chances were created and it was played in the manner of a friendly. We had a single effort on target which was easily parried away by the opposing keeper. Ottbourne, making his 60th appearance for Kalumba, kept a clean sheet being called into action just once. The inexperienced defence's attempt at an offside trap was woeful and Ottbourne was left exposed, one on one. But the veteran keeper hurled himself at the strikers feet forcing the ball away to safety. The only other happening of note was the sending off of Ben Cheeter. After a scrimmige in the middle of the field the referee hauled Cheeter to one side and dismissed him, allegedly for violent conduct despite replays showing nothing of the sort. The Kalumban Football Association have appealed and hope to have any suspencion rescinded.

Additional report by Bruce Mtwetwe:

Predictions for the finals. We wish the best of luck to Chetkosk who are flying the flag for all us new nations to international football. They carried out the incredibly immpressive feat of not only qualifying, the first time a new nation has since the 44th World Cup, but did so in style winning their group after a series of thrilling matches on the last day in their group. However we cannot predict them winning the world cup although this report sees them as potential quarter-finalists.

The Babbage Islands and the Polar Island States are the two big players this reporter sees has battling for the title but their are other names out their. Bears Armed as usual look strong, being huge bears and a very successful team. Queer Poco el Mono Ara did very well in our Group 3 and could perhaps cause an upset but personally i do not see at as they struggled against us winning just two-one, albeit in conditions adverse to the playing of good football suiting us not them. Finally The Archregimancy could surprise a lot of people and with the backing of God, and Margaret, could sneak a World Cup victory. After all they perform very well for monks and not fully dedicated athletes. But in the end i see an Islands clash in the final with Polar Islands just pipping Babbage to the title.

Kalumba is also looking forward to the beggining og their half of the Weaker Sex World Cup, with a delayed start. The team has appointed ex-mens side manager and winner of the Baptism of Fire George Davies as manager for the duration of the tournament. However in a press conference yesterday that will please many Kalumban football fans, KFA offical spokesman David Burnside announced they had rejected his resignation and he will resume charge of the national team and caretaker manager Magnus Malan will return to his role as first team coach.

Kalumba is also looking forward to the friendly against Southern Cyconephali, who finished strongly in their group. We defeated them by the narrowest of margins in the Baptism of Fire semi-final after Aaron Yuill fouled Ollie Roberts gifting us a late penalty and himself a red card. Kevins Davis smacked this home and we were on the path to glory while they had to settle for third place. Despite disappointment our fans struck up a friendly rivalry and we hope to see this continue.

OoC: Sorry if i wasn't supposed to post anymore now i am out, but i was away and wanted to report on my final group position and wish Chetkosk the best of luck

by **Virabia** » Sat Aug 06, 2011 12:42 am

The Vonghurst Star
Holy Shit We're in the World Cup

VONGHURST - For most, sex is just another (albeit rather enjoyable) part of life. Most of the time no special meaning is attached to the occasion. For they are just people looking to get off and the intercourse will be one of many and eventually names and faces will begin to blend together, as most of them aren't that special. However, when you're a virgin and for the first time crossing the barrier (or perhaps looking on wondering 'Why me? Why must I not have the fun') sex, even the sloppy amateur sex often had by first timers means the entire world and the single greatest accomplishment in their lives (and honestly at 16, that's not THAT bad). The same can be said about the World Cup. Nations like Starblaydia, Valanora and Sorthern Northland have made the final 32 so many times that the entire process of even making it seems trivial and even then, once they make it, the occasion fails to stand out unless they make a serious run for the trophy. Meanwhile, for the nations who are making it for the first time the occasion must truly be the entire world because in a way, the nation has lost it's virginity.

Or perhaps, that's just how it is in Virabia. Ever since last night's 7-3 victory over Orlkjestad infront of a beyond capacity (and overwhelmingly Virabi crowd), the nation has pretty much shut down. While football may not even be the country's biggest sport (though it has caught on in recent years), the fact that the team was able to overcome the difficulties in the early episodes of qualifying and still make it has been enough to inspire to the streets for what is one of the biggest nationwide parties that has ever happened (and we've had big nationwide parties). So, to celebrate, over the next few days a series of articles will be published that deal with not only the team that made it to the World Cup but the teams of the past as well as what the future may hold for Virabi football. First, though, some quick interviews with people we had who were key players in last nights match. First will be with the Nats' manager Jeff Parker.

VS: Jeff, the victory over Orlkjestad has got to be one of the biggest matches in Virabi footballing history. Going into it you expressed signs of uncertainty but remained optimistic. That has paid off with the 7-3 victory. Looking back on the match, what would you say the team did right?

JP: I'd say the biggest thing was simply we didn't play stressed. I noticed that in previous tournaments and even the beginning of the new qualifiers we had a tendency to play a little uptight, trying hard to not make a mistake. While that works sometimes, it's best just to let things flow and the world will have them happen as it's supposed to. That's what we did last night.

VS: What about Johnny America's hat trick in particular. Especially after he failed to net the ball the entire qualifiers. Would you say that redeemed him on the team. To be able to score those goals when critically needed?

JP: Yes, his performance was excellent, to score a hat trick in the same match as your first international goal is a rather special thing and I hope it's the first of many for him. Now to you I will say your question was rather misleading as to how much he helped the team. While the stats may not reflect it, he had many fine opportunities but, more importantly, he has done well in creating chances for Fransisco, Brown and others and that value is perhaps more than any number of goals could be.

VS: Another thing on peoples minds is the adoption of the 5-3-2. It seemed rather sudden, especially when the 4-2-2-1-1, was doing well enough. What prompted that move?

JP: First, as with anything I do it felt right. While the 4-2-2-1-1 is a fine formation, but it's narrow. Focused entirely along the middle of the pitch. So it's easy to exploit flanks. This is remedied to some degree by the 5-3-2. The other major reason was that I felt that the 4-2-2-1-1 was rather unfair for strikers since it only allowed one striker to be first XI. This was actually the biggest reason (aside from the hiatus) that will make Pédro's international career look how it does. There wasn't room for him. Now with a new generation coming up, one headed by striker Johnny America, I felt opening the door for them a bit more would only be beneficial and so far it has been. It's a more natural formation and a good balance. With the 'flying W' defence the team maintains a strong presence in the back field while the 5 guys in the front are able to do what they need to do. Simply put, we've come a long way since the 6-3-1 and the fourth Copa Rushmori. Though, I will say, the 5-3-2, is based more on the 6-3-1 than you would think *winks*

((OOC: More of this and others will be added in tomorrow ^.^))

by **Sorthern Northland** » Sat Aug 06, 2011 4:17 am

James Connolly Stadium, Beningrad, 150,000 – National stadium and home of Sorthern football
Estadio Castro, Castrograd, 90,000 – Second largest football stadium in the country, has previously been used for national team home games.
Whitecliff Stadium, Snowspire, 79,984 – Has also hosted Sorthern Northland home games and was built as a ploy to increase the chances of home victory by freezing the opposition to death. Has only three stands with a clifface at one end.
Páirc Uí Rinn, Corcaigh, 70,000 – Not exactly modern, but a much loved home to Sorthern Northland's most successful club.
The Causeway, Heathfield, 61,093 – Built on reclaimed land, the World Cup has finally seen funds made available to increase the capacity to over 60,000.
Ash Farm, Beningrad, 50,000 – The home of Oblast Rangers. As with much else to do with Rangers it is a massively disliked stadium.
Moffat Park, Reading, 45,000 – The only newly built stadium for the World Cup, the stadium is named in honour of Merginn Moffat, Sorthern Northland's former Jeruselemite manager who took the nation to previously inexperienced heights.
An Buailtín, Baile an Fheirtéaraigh, 40,490 – The smallest stadium in the World Cup, on the windswept and often wet Western coast conditions are likely to prove challenging.

Further information on the James Connolly, Páirc Uí Rinn and Whitecliff can be found here. A map of the nation is here.

Group Schedule
Group E
MD1: The Babbage Islands vs. Bostopia, Polar Islandstates vs. The Archregimancy [An Buailtín, Whitecliff Stadium]
MD2: The Archregimancy vs. The Babbage Islands, Polar Islandstates vs. Bostopia [Estadio Castro, Ash Farm]
MD3: The Babbage Islands vs. Polar Islandstates, The Archregimancy vs. Bostopia [James Connolly Stadium, The Causeway]

Group F
MD1: Pays de Horreur vs. Jeruselem, Cassadaigua vs. Jeru FC [Ash Farm, The Causeway]
MD2: Jeru FC vs. Pays de Horreur, Cassadaigua vs. Jeruselem [An Buailtín, Páirc Uí Rinn]
MD3: Pays de Horreur vs. Cassadaigua, Jeru FC vs. Jeruselem [Whitecliff Stadium, Moffat Park]

Group G
MD1: Bears Armed vs. Chetkosk, Cosumar vs. Andossa Se Mitrin Vega [An Buailtín, Ash Farm]
MD2: Andossa Se Mitrin Vega vs. Bears Armed, Cosumar vs. Chetkosk [Whitecliff Stadium, James Connolly Stadium]
MD3: Bears Armed vs. Cosumar, Andossa Se Mitrin Vega [Ash Farm, Estadio Castro]

Group H
MD1: Sarzoclava vs. Sorthern Northland, Delaclava vs. Qazox [James Connolly Stadium, Estadio Castro]
MD2: Qazox vs. Sarzoclava, Delaclava vs. Sorthern Northland [Moffat Park, The Causeway]
MD3: Sarzoclava vs. Delaclava, Qazox vs. Sorthern Northland [An Buailtín, Páirc Uí Rinn]

Second round
SR5: Winner Group E vs. Runner Up Group F [Estadio Castro]
SR6: Winner Group F vs. Runner Up Group E [Páirc Uí Rinn]
SR7: Winner Group G vs. Runner Up Group H [Whitecliff Stadium]
SR8: Winner Group H vs. Runner Up Group G [James Connolly Stadium]

Quarter-finals
QF3: Winner SR5 vs. Winner SR8 [James Connolly Stadium]
QF4: Winner SR6 vs. Winner SR7 [Estadio Castro]

Semi-finals
SF2: Winner QF3 vs. Winner QF4 [James Connolly Stadium]

Third place play-off
Loser SF1 vs. Loser SF2 [Páirc Uí Rinn]

WC 56 SNLVI RP Thread

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