Baptism of Fire 45 Rosters/RP/Scores Thread (IC)

by **Elmonia** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 7:43 am

He woke up. He was tired. of course, winning 3-0 was great, they were 1-1-1, and second in the group. But this chat room intrigued him. He logged on

Now, that was really strange. This stuff, just odder and odder. He began typing

OOC to K and P

by **Cascratia** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 7:54 am

PASSION OF ROKO
ROKONARA AYLMER'S PERSONAL BLOG

DEFEATED AT LAST

Cascratia 2-3 Azrael

Do not let your eyes fool you. Just because the whistle blows does not mean you have failed. Only when you have walked and fallen will you know that you have truly been defeated. But fear not for with ever defeat is a win. So there is no reason to doubt you. Even in the hardest of times. Should you look at defeat in the eyes long enough?

You may just find its weakness. Each time you fall, someone else gets back up and helps you. One person can't do it alone. We must all combine as a team. For we do not leave even one person behind.

Let this be a lesson. The next time you're in a win lose situation and you are winning, know that the other will find a way to become better. Time isn't a factor, neither is the beauty of the game. You make all the differences and they will cheer you on

For without defeat, what will you have learned? Knowledge comes in the form of a loss. Making you stronger.

For defeat is always…momentary

by **Azrael** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 9:45 am

An Irregular Ode to the Eminence of the Baptism of Fire

When fate strikes his dreaded

lyre

Thus begins the time so

dire

As each contender adorns their glorious

attire

The shining crowds will begin to

admire

And as such begins fierce

desire

To become victorious and endlessly

inspire

Never will the yearning

retire

Until one reaches the summit of the virtuous

spire

They must endure the difficulties that

transpire

Denying every arrogant

liar

Cross the ever treacherous

wire

For glory they will ultimately

acquire

Should they brave what villains doth

conspire

To thwart their chances in their

entire

As they seek to become

higher

And touch the wondrous

sapphire

That disposition which we do

enquire

When that wonder we finally

mire

Those whom to we should

aspire

Are those whom brave the ferocious

pyre

Those who forever refuse to

tire

Despite what their bodily ambition to

perspire

And yet we all believe they we can each become

prior

To the fearsome vehemence o'

Baptism of Fire

by **Yesopalitha** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 11:27 am

The Report - Over Halfway through Qualifying

Hello readers... Theodore Manson here, reporting on the Yesopalitha Flames's success at the Baptism of Fire tournament so far. After the Flames had success in winning the Oxen Cup, advancing to the Quarters at the International Basketball Championships, and making it to the playoffs at the Di Bradin Cup, Flames fans at home were skeptical that their luck would last, coming into this tournament. However, with the sister combination of Hilary and Jane Vander Rox at the helm, the Flames are coming off of a stretch where they won their first three games by a combined score of seven goals to nil. Hilary Vander Rox leads the team in scoring with five goals through three matches, while Nadya Dostoevich has two goals.

Manager Scotty Mitchell has committed this team to a rolling attack style where the midfielders spend most of their time on offense. This does put a lot of stress on the defenders, but they have more than risen to the task. With the help of Jane Vander Rox, Quinn Harold, and Ishmael Van Tupa, goalkeeper James Dotson hasn't allowed a single goal, surprising many fans who thought that Brianna Karson, the goalkeeper for the Flames at the recent Oxen Cup, should've taken the job.

After there was some worry that the Flames weren't getting into many set pieces, Yesopalitha scored both of their goals over Actaris via the virtue of set pieces. Hilary hit a beautiful free kick from twenty meters out in the first half, and in the second, she followed that up when she headed in a corner kick from corner kick specialist Jack Jones.

Still ahead for the Flames are two games that many have called will be the true matches of the qualifying - against the Armed Bears Ursines and a very solid Hutt River team. The Flames have guaranteed an over .500 finish in the group stage, and are looking to secure the top spot in Group B.

In other Yesopalithan sporting news, the Flames' basketball team was ranked ninth in the latest polls, going from Unranked to being in the Top Ten in one tournament. Madame Nirdasil deemed this to be "unprecedented" and expressed her admiration for the job that Coach Scandricks and his team accomplished in their first international experience.

Also, the Yesopalitha Sporting Committee released an official statement stating that after the Baptism of Fire, Flames teams will include the other races of Yesopalitha - Vampire, Werewolves, and even some Wraiths. They ask any and all potential opponents with questions regarding the safety of their players when playing such beings to go to http://www.yesopalithchat.gov, where Denasil, the diplomat, is currently taking questions concerning this. As one councilman put it, "If there are countries of ponies and bears and other such non-humans already participating in the tournament without problems from the international community, we do our population a great injustice by not allowing our non-human citizens to participate in sports."

It is my humble opinion that the Yesopalitha Flames sporting teams have taken the world by storm; just how long our luck will last, we do not know. Manager Mitchell did state his skepticism concerning the Flames qualifying the actual World Cup, stating that although it would be a great honor, the history and strength of some of the teams would probably be too much for the Flames to handle. However, he did end his press release with the Yesopalitha motto, Perseverentia Saeculorum, stating that they will try their best, and keep in mind the ultimate goal of Yesopalitha sports - to respect others and to gain the respect of others.

So, whether you watch the Flames take on Armed Bears and Hutt River, or cheer for the basketball team being ranked ninth, or are anxiously awaiting the debuts of the Flames' American Football, Basketball, or the Brianna Karson led - and recently formed - Ice Hockey teams, please keep watching, and keep supporting your very own Yesopalitha Flames, for they represent you, and in my opinion, they represent you well.

Reporting from Freedom's Altar, Yesopalitha, this is Theodore Manson.

Some Stats:
Goals Scored:
Hilary Vander Rox 5
Nadya Dostoevich 2

by **West Angola** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 12:04 pm

Peter Warren had pulled both Danforth's and Luke Parrish aside in the lobby of the team's hotel. "You three, I'm entrusting to you this letter. Open and read it on and ONLY on the event of my death. You will know what to do when you read it." The three looked at each other, and finally Parrish took the envelope and pocketed it. "But coach, what..." Warren shushed him violently, "Don't ask questions, but if I die, read the letter and follow my instructions to the last detail." Luke was a tad frightened by all the secrecy and talk of murder, but he looked into his coach's eyes and said "Yes sir." The Danforth's nodded their assent, and the group headed into the elevator to the team's rooms.

About an hour later, Parrish was rudely awakened by his room phone ringing. Groggily, he picked it up and half-mumbled "Hello?"
"Don't do anything foolish, football stars aren't invincible, remember your keeper."
"Who is this?" Parrish got no reply, the line was dead. Confused and even more scared he tried to go back to sleep, but it took a long time.

by **Armed Bears** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 12:37 pm

“Tough game…”

“Tough opponents, too. In fact, I think maybeso we’re in the toughest group in this tournament…”

“Hr’rmm?”

“Seems like that, anyhows.”

“Hwell, and of course how hot it was in that stadium yesterday didn’t help, neither…”

“For true! I'm sure that if the temperature had been like we could expect back home around now we'd have scored at least another two or three goals..."

"Still, at least we’ll have cooler conditions when we play our next game, against Yesopalitha… even if it is back to the tropics again when we face Luzicya after that for our last ‘qualifier’…”

“And probably better that way around than the other, too, for true, bearing in mind how well Yesopalitha has been doing so far…”

“Ayyuh.
“So, anyhows, when is it that those journalists from the other ‘Armed Bears’ are coming to talk with us? Tomorrow afternoon, isn’t it?”

“One of them phoned me just under a watch ago, to postpone the meeting. Unfortunately they’re both having problems with upset guts…”

“Oh. That’s a pity, and not just for their sake neither. I was hrreally looking forwards to finding out about their country, and how it compares to our own homeland.”

“Ayyuh. Hwhat I can tell you now, from looking in an encyclopaedia that I found in the hotel lounge yesterday evening, it’s that it’s definitely an "alternative" version of our nation — in another aspect of ‘fractal reality’ — rather than just another country of the same name that’s from the same ‘Reality’ as us. There was a map showing its location, and it’s on situated on a version of the continent of Yord the same as us and with quite similar borders too on the whole although — especially in the north — certainly not identical ones… but most of its neighbours seem to be Human-dominated countries instead of other Ursine nations as is the case for our own land.”

“That’s weird…”

“Maybeso, but that’s the truth… for true!

by **Oasirica (Ancient)** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 2:29 pm

The Ossidiacquan Museum of The Pause Time
Cultural Wing

Cabinet One
Cabinet Two
Cabinet Three

Curator's Note -
From this cabinet onwards, the letters by Esmeralda that we have been able to recover were written at times progressing through her life, whilst letters by Stefano continued to be sent after every match. As luck would have it, thanks to the timing relationship between the two siblings due to the time wall, if you stretch/contract their two timelines to run over each other so that 24hours=24hours, the letters would have been written at roughly the same time.

Cabinet Four

Stefano
Dearest Sister,

I am despairing.

I cannot concentrate.

I feel heartbroken.

Everytime an envoy appears with some slip of paper, my heart jumps at the thought that he may be bringing me news from home. But alas, there is no news from home. At the moment we feel like we have no home to call our own. Every day, we are praying for you all. Praying that the time wall will fall soon, and that we will have a home to go back to after this tournament.

Enzo has a theory. He thinks that as the time wall is bigger than it was supposed to be, the time wall will be up for longer than it should be. I don't know how big the original time wall should have been, but Oasirica is surely many scores bigger. I hope that he is wrong. I think that that would mean the wall was up for centuries, and that would be terrible.

I am dreaming of Sant'Elia. I miss our home, up on the hill in Theodora. The view of the ocean, sparkling and shining in the distance between the valleys. I am thinking of the poplar trees lining our avenue, of the spires and domes rising high above the streets, of the way the lamplighters would illuminate the streets of a night-time with multi-coloured light all the way up the boulevards, the way the smell of coffé would fill your nostrils as you walked the streets of the Acadêmizzona. Dear sister I have taken these things for granted. Now that the though has crossed my mind that I may never see their like again, they are all I can think about.

The rest of the team is as distracted as I am, and we struggled through the last match. We only beat Landereien thanks to a late goal from Bonelli, and although we are yet to concede a goal, our opposition hit the post twice, and with the mood so dark in the camp at the moment, I fear for our next match against The Araucania, still here in Pazhujebu.

Dear sister, as soon as the wall drops, pray send me an emergency telegram, so that I may hear from you again.

I remain as ever,
your Stefano

Esmeralda
Dearest Brother,

The wall has not fallen. We waited patiently for the sixty days to elapse, and yet nothing has happened. We are besides ourselves with worry. The techgineers have no idea what is going on/ They got the borders wrong, and as such have no idea what effect this is going to have on the timing of the wall. I am fearing the worst.

They have no theories on the behaviour of the weather yet either. Still no rain has fallen, and two weeks of sunlight before two weeks of night is beginning to take its toll on the people. We are so tired, and so worried dear brother. The atmosphere in the city continues to deteriorate day by day, and we are seeing more and more armed police on the streets. Though, many of them are young, and you can see the fear in their eyes. There have been instances of looting in the industrial areas, and the Acadêmizzona is like a ghost town, as everyone is inside trying to figure out the way past the time wall.

I am told that the situation is even worse up in the hills, where as it hasn't rained since before the time wall went up, their water supplies are running low already. It can only be a matter of time before this effect is felt in our city, and already the sea water purifiers are working hard.

Cousin Giuseppe is at death's door, dear brother, and we are praying for him every day. Julietta is by his bedside, I am told, though she is barely capable of looking after herself anymore either. Even worse, dear brother, la Plaga cases are beginning to crop up in the suburbs, and I fear that it is about to hit Sant'Elia properly. The government have said to avoid travel you can help it, but there is already a three day queue to get onto the monorail out of the city. We are staying put for the mean time, I think Grandmama would rather die than leave this old house of ours. But I am sure I heard Mama start to cough just yesterday, and though she denies it, I am worried.

Life has turned upside down, Stefano, and I dearly wish you were here. Things never seem bad when you are around, even as a child I would look to you for comfort. We need you right now. I hope your football is going well, though, I cannot imagine the pain you are suffering in your heart.

I remain as always,
your loving sister,
Esmeralda

About me · by **Luziyca** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 3:25 pm

Bethlehem Times
A Stunning Victory!

Today, Luziyca beat 1-0 against the New Holy Roman Empire. On the third day of the match, they win their first point, by none other than Li Tong, meaning a success not only on the Luziycan nation, as well as freedom itself, but the Luziycan Chinese community in Bethlehem, with 2,500 Chinese residents, they all cheered for Li Tong (Chinese: 李彤) as she made that goal.

After the game, Habib Bougera announced on behalf of the Luziycan National Team, "We are a strong nation, and with this first step, we are ensuring the Luziycans will bring democracy and freedom. We are to start our first season in the World Baseball Classic, and it is hard to form a team. One thing is for sure, one team, from this sovereign nation, in the major league baseball tournaments WILL attend. Back to the game, we are glad for Li Tong's efforts in the football tournament. She did very good, and we are glad. I am a Muslim, many are Christian, but hey, that is how we roll. She got the ball in, and boy, we were stronger than those "holy" commies. I am glad to be on this team."

As many wonder, some conservatives believed that Li Tong was doping, since she came from mainland Chinaland (OOC: NS equivalent to China) which is governed by communists, and a few even felt she should be deported to her home country. However, the authorities stated she did not dope for this match, but there are plenty of questions regarding whether she doped. However, she stated she fled to Taiwan when she was 15, with her parents, and moved when she was 24 to Luziyca to further her studies in football, and by golly, she did. Now at 29, she is the youngest player in the team.

May the next game be prosperous.

by **Swalenia** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 3:33 pm

Lawrence Thomas: Sports & Life: Edition 8

Something I wrote;

1.2.3 Swalenia's climbing the sporty tree,
4.5.6 We getting in there, into the mix.
7.8.9 We putting ourselves on the line.
Oooooooh SWALENIA!!!

1.2.3 Head, Foot, Chest, Knee
4.5.6 Scoring lots of goals, doing lots of tricks!
7.8.9 We'll keep on scoring, you'll beg and wine "Stop!"
But no...Oooooooh SWALENIA!!!

1.2.3 Mikes (the coach) got the answer, Mikes got the Key!
4.5.6 He's done so good, there's nothing to fix!
7.8.9 He makes 'em sparkle, he makes 'em shine!
Oooooooooh SWALENIA!!!

1.2.3 The Opposition, they're all at sea!
4.5.6 When we play, we're a bag of tricks!
7.8.9 They've got no clue, They've got no Spine!
Ooooooh! SWALENIA!!!

Ooooooh! SWALENIA!!!
Ooooooh! SWALENIA!!!
Ooooooh! SWALENIA!!!
SWALENIA, SWALENIA, SWALENIA!!!

<rampant cheering, repeat 5 minutes later>

Neat...

OOC: our fans will chant this a-lot!

by **Hutt River** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 3:46 pm

Jack Stafford was at his desk, in his office. He checked the clock. Lunchtime. He'd just given a rousing address to the nation about how we should fight back against the Ipelandic terrorists who wanted to take away our liberty and freedoms, etc. etc. He spent the rest of the morning phoning up relatives and giving interviews to many TV networks and radio stations. No-one knew his little secret, no-one in the country, no-one in the world. The plan was foolproof.

*

A woman climbed out of the wreckage of Hutt River Airways Flight 350, which had just exploded. Her name was Amber Hoffmann, assistant account for Lee & Lee Inc. He sneaked of the runway and through the bushes next to the runway and onto a road. She had nothing apart from a mobile phone, 50 Hutt River Dollars, and a ham and cucumber sandwich in her handbag. She got her phone out and phoned someone. They weren't picking up. She left a message. She continued walking towards the port, to Ipeland and safety.

*

Horst Jank and Jutta Kamp entered room 23A in a hotel just outside Zhevassi in Pazhujebu. They came in to see Walter Hoffmann sobbing loudly. The TV was on, showing the destruction of Flight 350. They knew Hoffmann's mother was on board the plane, so they said nothing, just sat down and watched the news, shocked. A long time after, maybe 5 minutes, but it felt like a long time, Jank went up to pick his phone. He accidentally picked up Hoffman's phone and turned it on. He saw a voicemail from "Mum".

"Err... Walt, take a look at this."

Walt's tears dried up, as he looked at the phone. He tentatively turned on the voicemail...
His phone ran out of charge.

by **Newland-America** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 4:05 pm

The Newland Times:
Today in Sports

Newland Isn't Getting Any Love

Yesterdays game against Landpolis started slow with no goals at all (although there were many attempts!). Newland's national team was planning for this to be their first win, because they had lost their first. But they couldn't hold onto the win and they sadly lost it. GM Santiago Sims stated, "this is not the end we will keep fighting till we can fight no more!" He later stated that the team played their hardest, but just couldn't do it. They are hoping that the third game will be a win, because third times a charm!

MORE ON PAGE F6

by **Nifferite** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 4:09 pm

Triple N Online Sports Report

The Maximus Fortuna Farmers, representing our beloved Nifferite this season in the Baptism of Fire, has gone strong in it's first ever organised football matches. Playing agianst seasoned veterans, the Farmers are fourth in the group with a 1-1 record. Trying to introduce football to virgin territories in Nifferite, the Farmers will need to capture the hearts of millions in the upcoming runs.
Written by Gerald Curry, Farmers Fortuna, Nifferite

by **Ancharmunn** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 4:27 pm

“NIGHTINGALE!! Another fine save from the Sorthern Rovers man, and if Ancharmunn come out of this game with anything his team-mates will certainly be in debt to him.”

A man with Champions' Cup experience from playing for Mytanar club Atletik Thessia and a man with a World Cup winners medal isn't particularly someone you'd expect to find playing in the Baptism of Fire. In many ways though he's always been a player who has had to battle back from setbacks.

Long a Sorthern international but as a third choice goalkeeper one who rarely played it was only really after Sorthern Northland won World Cup 55 that he came to prominence. It wasn't any of his heroics that brought him that prominence either, but ridicule after he dropped the World Cup trophy during celebrations.

Moving onto to Mytannion and joining Atletik Thessia with his reputation in tatters after that incident Nightingale recovered and established himself as the first choice keeper of one of Mytannion, arguably even Rushmore's, better known clubs. He would remain an everpresent in the Sorthern Northland squad only ever picking up a handful of caps in unimportant matches. To say his international career never got going would be a fair statement.

Until now that is. He was part of the squad on that fateful day when Sorthern Northland played Krytenia in their last ever match, though not an active participant of course. Mytannion would soon follow Sorthern Northland from the world's sporting scene if not total existence leaving Nightingale without a club or country to play for. What would for many be a major setback though has worked out quite well.

As with many other Sorthern footballers Nightingale has found his way to Ancharmunn's capital Ballyfeeaknock and playing for Sorthern Rovers. His performances there have lead to him becoming a fan's favourite and a goalkeeper no longer burdened with the stigma of dropping the World Cup. From there, becoming Ancharmunn's number one has been a natural progression.

With just three caps to his name for his new nation it is of course early days, but with just two goals conceded it's been a bright start for Stephen Nightingale and the defence in front of him. The Baptism of Fire for many marks the birth of countless new nations and the emergence of countless previously unheard of footballers. For one former World Cup winner however it looks set to mark a rebirth of an already successful if unheralded career.

by **West Angola** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 4:29 pm

They'd come for him in the night, knocking him over the head and shoving him into the backseat of a waiting car. No one had spoken to him yet, they'd simply beaten him silently until the blood ran freely down his face and torso, pooling on the floor and making it hard to breathe. Peter Warren was sure he was going to die, his only regret was that he wouldn't get to be there to see what happened to the team. Suddenly, the blows stopped coming. Warren couldn't see what had changed due to his blindfold, and he couldn't ask any questions because of the gag he was wearing, but he felt strong hands grab his arms and force him to stand. He was made to walk to another room where his blindfold and gag were suddenly ripped off and he was temporarily blinded by the brightest light he'd ever seen shining directly into his face.

A man whose voice Warren didn't recognize spoke to him, "Mr. Warren, you have done excellent work so far in the tournament, it would be a shame for you not to be able to continue coaching. Please make smarter choices in the future and do not antagonize the wrong people. Go back to the hotel and clean yourself up, coach the game tonight and tell no one what occurred here today, or you will receive more of the same treatment. Good day." With that, Warren was blindfolded and gagged once again and knocked out. When he awakened, he was back in his hotel room. Warren was sure August had sent the men who'd attacked him, but Warren didn't scare easily. If anything, the episode had only strengthened his resolve. Today he'd stared death in the face and accepted it. He would wait until after the team's fate was decided in the cup, best not to leave the team hanging, then he would go to the press. The country needed a monarch now, not a murderer.

by **Astograth** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 5:01 pm

This is your Matchday 4 RP cutoff for the Astograth region.

by **Zona Azul** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 5:22 pm

"You really have to take advantage of the fact they are still here in Gelendzhik, as tomorrow they are going to travel to another city..."

It was once again Waolloch talking through the internal communication device, installed in the top of the mass that is Deckmib, who however looked like a man in his mid-thirties.

"Alright, I'll see what I can do. Last night Zona Azul won their third game, so they may have been doing something in order to commemorate."

Deckmib went to the hotel that was fully reserved to the alien delegation. No one wanted to give him information, so he had to use his abilities... luckily for him, transforming himself into another person in appearance didn't change his strength or even other talents, and he could easily grab one of the security guards without the others could notice, knock him out and take his identity. Posing as the man he had just defeated, he then asked in a casual tone where the aliens went to.

"They went to some tematic bar, whose owners were courageous enough to accept their presence... it is in the city centre."

Deckmib then ran to the place after getting the correct address, but was forbidden to enter.

"Sorry, tonight we are holding a special party, no one can enter excepting invited people."

Surely he wouldn't give up, and instead decided to just take some distance and look at the ones entering the place. He could see some members of the Zona Azul squad reaching the bar, such as the goalkeeper Y'Gohlrodt. And there were some girls too... since the majority of the members of the Zona Azul team are male, it would be expected that they would allow some women into their commemoration. More than this, the security members of the bar were much more prone to hear the requests of women wanting to enter the place... such is the influence power this female species has. So, he went to the first magazine stand he could find, one that even while closed he could see a magazine cover. After taking a look at a fashion magazine, he took the appearance of a top model, and then returned to the bar entrance.

"Excuse me, could I enter?"

"Were you invited... oh, nevermind... I guess you were invited, even if you weren't they would welcome you there... even if they wouldn't, how could I say no to you... erm, I mean..."

Deckmib left the man speaking alone, hypnotized by the beauty of the model impersonated by the agent. He then finally got close, for the first time, to the members of the National Team. All enjoying the night after a wonderful win.

"I have to be part of the team, to infiltrate their staff... cannot be in this body, to join the team as a female companion would give me no further access... I have to become a trusted member of the team."

He then joined the table, still looking like a top model, and talked to some of the drunk members of the team. There was one of them who caught his attention: he was the chief physical trainer of the squad, and he really was a pervert, desiring the body controlled by Deckmib. That was the perfect opportunity, and the agent asked him to take him to a reserved place.

But it wasn't for what the coach expected. He expected kisses, but he got a lethal blow. Dead on the floor, Deckmib then took his identity, hid the body and returned to the bar. It was done, he was inside the team staff of Zona Azul.

ZONA AZUL OFFICIAL MATCH ANNOUNCEMENT

Once again the Zona Azul team faced an opponent they knew nothing about, and once again it was proved that these clubs which do not reveal their information are clearly weaker, since the aliens managed to get a comfortable 3x0 win over Trafalgar. As much as the opponent players wanted to act like warriors wanting to defend their territory against the outsider forces of Zona Azul, their defensive approach to the game simply didn't work at all, with the speed of the National Team of the company providing the good chances and the goals. Sievert Sazzavv had a wonderful game and, after scoring the first goal and giving the assist to the second, that one scored by Eçañas, became one of the most respected members of the first team, taking a position he didn't have previously. We are discovering new stars in this Baptism of Fire.

The third goal was scored by Ob, the teardrop which species we don't clearly know. After a crossing to the area, a defender tried to clear the danger but his shot was blocked by K-M'il. The ball then rolled close to the goal, and Ob took advantage of its small size to reach it before the opponents and send it to the net. With the three wins conquered so far, Zona Azul is now first in the group, but now has the two most dangerous teams of the group to face. The next, Equestrian States, will bring an interesting matchup between different species, from ponies and unicorns to monstruous alien beings as Biafra and Ditryx, surely transforming the match in an unique event. About Aux Ditryx, she got very happy to learn she was going to face a team of equestrian races, since it is well known the alliance of her alien race with the evil red-brown horses of the planet Ujmed. They just didn't told her that there'll be none of these evil species in the opponent squad...

by **Equestrian States** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 5:36 pm

The Equestrian Sporting Ponies Network (ESPN)
Rapid Reaction
Equestrian States Victorious Over Stockton-on-Tees
Posted at 11:59 PM, Jan. 8,2012

JUVAPANAM – Following a crushing defeat at the hands of the Sjovene team, the Equestrian States was able to scratch out a win against struggling Stockton-on-Tees. However, despite continued dominance on defense, the only goal of the game for the Ponies came on a penalty shot taken by team captain Fire Dash.

Additionally, bad news from the training staff: an injury suffered by Pearly Shores will have her sidelined for at least the remainder of group play. Coach Mad Dash announced after the game that until Shores is fully healed, Spike Smith will replace her on the pitch.

What this means...
The Equestrian States is still in third place in Group A. However, their victory tonight kept them in contention for securing a spot in the final bracket. The team will have to win their next two games if they wish to continue playing.

What's Next?
The Equestrian States' team will be resting tonight as their next game is at the same stadium, but will practice early tomorrow morning in preparation for their crucial match against Zona Azul. If the Equestrian States can win they will likely move into second place in the Group, and if Sjovenia loses its two remaining games, then the Equestrian team will have a chance at taking home a group championship.

-Lunar Cavalry

The Equestrian Sporting Ponies Network (ESPN)
Match Preview
Equestrian States (2-1-0) vs. Zona Azul (3-0-0)

Team Comparisons:
Records:
Equestrian States: 2-1-0 (3rd in Group A)
>Zona Azul: 3-0-0 (T-1st in Group A)
Goals For:
Equestrian States: 4 (3rd in Group A)
>Zona Azul: 8 (1st in Group A)
Goals Against:
Equestrian States: 2 (T-2nd in Group A)
Zona Azul: 2 (T-2nd in Group A)
Goal Differential:
Equestrian States: +2 (3rd in Group A)
>Zona Azul: +6 (1st in Group A)

Predictions:
Flamin' Blossom (ESPN)- Zona Azul 2, Equestrian States 1
>A tough draw for the Equestrian States. Group A has been extremely competitive thus far. Although the Equestrian Defense is strong, I just don’t see them winning.
'Cupcakes' Stetson (Equestrian Daily)- Zona Azul 1, Equestrian States 0
>The dominant offense that the Equestrian States needs to win their games has yet to materialize. The Zona Azul offense has proven to be one of the most potent in the tournament. The best the Equestrian States can hope for is a draw.
Scorz (Zona Azul Sports Analyst)- Zona Azul 3, Equestrian States 0
>Both teams are some of the best defensively, but the pony players of the Equestrian team doesn’t have the offense they need to win against a top-tier team.

by **Astograth** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 5:46 pm

Astograth Region: Matchday 4

Group F
Ima and Eastern Mae 0–1 Vettrera
Lizland 0–1 Stvoto Latoli
Ancharmunn 0–0 Oliveland

Group F                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Vettrera               4   3  0  1    6   2  +4    9
2 Oliveland              4   2  2  0    5   1  +4    8
3 Ancharmunn             4   2  1  1    4   2  +2    7
4 Lizland                4   1  1  2    3   4  −1    4 E
5 Ima and Eastern Mae    4   1  0  3    4   5  −1    3 E
6 Stvoto Latoli          4   1  0  3    2  10  −8    3 E

Group G
Newland-America 2–0 Ocaterra
Baleyaroh 2–3 French Scandinavia
Landpolis 0–3 Bruyn

Group G                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Bruyn                  4   4  0  0    8   0  +8   12 Q
2 Ocaterra               4   2  0  2    4   3  +1    6
3 French Scandinavia     4   2  0  2    5   6  −1    6
  Landpolis              4   2  0  2    5   6  −1    6
5 Newland-America        4   1  1  2    4   5  −1    4 E
6 Baleyaroh              4   0  1  3    3   9  −6    1 E

Group H
Nifferite 0–1 West Angola
Cascratia 2–0 Diol
Herenia 0–1 Azrael

Group H                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 West Angola            4   3  1  0   11   1 +10   10
2 Azrael                 4   3  1  0    8   4  +4   10
3 Cascratia              4   3  0  1    8   5  +3    9
4 Herenia                4   1  0  3    5   8  −3    3 E
5 Nifferite              4   1  0  3    3   8  −5    3 E
6 Diol                   4   0  0  4    2  11  −9    0 E

Group I
Anglegard 1–3 Politik
PuertoRico 0–1 19th Century Beards
Naboompu 2–0 Kerblaekistan

Group I                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Politik                4   4  0  0   10   2  +8   12 Q
2 Naboompu               4   3  0  1    4   3  +1    9
3 19th Century Beards    4   2  1  1    5   3  +2    7
4 Kerblaekistan          4   1  1  2    3   6  −3    4 E
5 PuertoRico             4   0  1  3    1   4  −3    1 E
6 Anglegard              4   0  1  3    1   6  −5    1 E

by **Equestrian States** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 6:19 pm

Sampa Gumbada Stidiyama in Juvapanam, Pazhujebu
15 Minutes Before Kickoff

Spike Smith could feel the air vibrating. It wasn't because he was a dragon, but rather because the stands above the locker room were packed with incredibly boisterous and energized fans. The aura of the place was truly intense. Ponies, aliens, and the occasional humans had filled the stadium to absolute maximum capacity within twenty minutes of the gates being opened. Spike shivered as he sat. It wasn't the fans, nor even the zoo accross the street from the stadium, it was the fact that he was starting.

After an untimely injury to Pearly Shores, he, the only dragon, and the youngest player in the entire tournament (to the best of his knowledge), was to start against one of the highest-powered offenses in contention. His small, purple and green-scaled body was smaller than everypony else on the team, and Ponies aren't well known for their height. Cut it out Spike, he told himself, nopony else can run under other players legs to attack the ball. You're not worthless, just imagine the possibilities. A Zona player could be about to score, but doesn't see you slide under his legs, and then you steal the ball. Or maybe you somehow get a breakaway, and... He continued to sit, pondering his role in the daunting match ahead of him. Much could be decided by him, but he would first have to trust himself.

***************

Fire Dash fluttered around the locker room. The crowd had grown louder in the last two minutes, and the owners had comptensated by increasing the volume of the music that blasted from the speakers. Nopony was speaking underneath the grand crowd, though. All were silently pondering their upcoming match. The coaching staff was in their offices, probably looking over the play sheets; players fiddled with their manes or with the numbered strips of cloth that identified them to the crowd. Looking down at his own, Fire Dash was again enraptured by the humans and their strange customs.

Their foods (meat, how disgusting!), words (never had he heard such dirty language), and hands were all foreign to him. Most of all, was their tendency to try to predict the weather. As a Pegasai, one of Fire Dash's jobs when not playing was to clear the skies of all unscheduled weather. But here, all the humans did was mope about how the rain had soiled their picnic or delayed their flight. Ponies rarely were uninformed of the weather schedule, and planned their picnics around the thunderstorms occasional appearences.

But it did not matter now, he scolded himself, what mattered was the game ahead. What mattered was representing his nation.

"Ponies!" he shouted, then turning towards a particular young dragon, smiling "and Spike."

As the team assembled at the central hub of the room, his face grew serious.

"Tonight we face perhaps the greatest adversary we will face here. Tonight we face one of the best offenses known to ponykind. Tonight we will not bow. Tonight we fight! For tolerance, for love, for the pegasai, for the unicorns, for the ponies, for the dragons, and for Equestria!"

The ancient war-neigh used by his ancestors tore from his throat and the team charged out of the locker room.

***************

Solar Night stood to the right of Hat Trix, looking down the tunnel towards the now deafening crowd. Ponies of all kinds, and indeed, species of all kinds were visible among the many fans. The flags of the competing nations were everywhere, from the hooves of colts and fillies, to the necks of Zona Azul supporters. It was glorious.

Then, the slamming of doors could be heard as the Equestrian States team burst from its room, charging down the hall. Outside, the announcer was continuing his introduction of the teams. The Zona Azul team had exited just seconds earlier, to the delight of many alien attendees. But now, it was their turn. The human guard nodded, and Twilight Striker stepped back as the team blazed by the coaches. The Pegasai took flight as they neared the gaping mouth of the tunnel, quickly making a practiced formation.

The team soared into the brightly lit stadium. Ponies of all types and marks cheered with glee as their pride flew onto the pitch. As the team performed to the fans' delight, the coaches trotted towards the bench, observing their opponent the whole way. At least a dozen species were wearing uniforms or indicators of some sort, an impressive sight. Solar Night looked towards the moon and stars, whispered a prayer to Luna, and then awaited the beginning of the match.

It would be a good one...

by **Azrael** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 7:34 pm

The Azrael Reporter
Sports

Azrael defeat Herenia 1-0; Continue unbeaten run in race for Group H win

Timothy Strait, Sports Correspondent for The Azrael Reporter
Jan 9, 2012

The Azrael National football team remains in contention to win the Baptism of Fire's Group H and qualify for the Round of 16 after defeating Herenia 1-0 at the Ximun Orieta Sporting Ground in Echegoyan, Astograth. Azrael manager Collin Devereux announced the starting XI for today's match against Herenia before the match, however we were unable to report it until now. Yesterday's match against Cascratia and the previous day's match against West Angola left the usual starting XI very tired, and the fact that today's and tomorrow's matches are to be against expectantly easy opponents convinced Devereux and assistant Patrick Richards to change up the lineup. The starting XI was as follows:

Lineup vs Herenia, Jan 9, 2012

Starters
1—Reece Gallagher—GK

2—Maxim Krasnovsky—RB
4—Brett Marshall (captain)—RCB
15—Lucas McLaughlin—LCB
20—Mikhail Neziri—LB

6—Francis Gilford—CDM
11—Mikel Navarro—RM
16—Kieran Rosales—LM
18—Shaun O’Neill—CAM

10—Kazim Ghazali—RS
13—Marcus Benoit—LS

Subs
12—Gianni Rimondini—GK
23—Alex Wong—LB/RB
14—Damian Sanford—CM
8—Malcolm Adler—CM
19—Ryan Rodriguez—LM
9—Scott Harrison—ST
17—Ken Toyama—ST

Reserves
21—Danijel Predragovic—GK
3—Jacobson Tyler—CB
5—Claudio Rocha—LB/RB
7—Darren Valentín—RM
22—Baakr Alhassan—LM

With a less experienced squad learning how to play with each other, the match's only breakthrough came in the 33rd minute when a deflection from a Ghazali free kick fell to the feet of Shaun O'Neill, who perfectly placed a a powerful shot into the low corner. Azrael's inexperienced team braved several counter-attacks from Herenia, with Reece Gallagher earning his first clean sheet. Azrael now sits second in Group H, behind West Angola by goal differential. West Angola is set to face Cascratia tomorrow, who gave a memorably difficult match to Azrael yesterday. Should Azrael win and West Angola either lose or draw to Cascratia, Azrael will automatically qualify for the Round of 16 on points only. However, there isn't much worry in the Azrael camp in Astograth, where promising performance has inspired positive optimism for the future, no matter the result tomorrow. Said Devereux,

"The boys have performed really well. I think it's safe to say that we have high hopes for qualifying for the Round of 16 and should have quite a time doing so tomorrow. We've been stressing focus in practice, but I think our results promote rest for the team. The boys deserve it. Obviously once Group Stage ends we'll be going at our opponents full on."

Azrael's next match will be against the already eliminated Nifferite at the Ituraitz Sporting Ground (random note: This will be Azrael's first time playing there. All of Nifferite's BoF matches are played there, with their only win coming against Diol, who have lost all their matches).

Match Summary

Scoring
Azrael -- 33rd min -- Shaun O'Neill 1(unassisted)

Azrael Lineup
Gallagher, Krasnovsky, Marshall, McLaughlin, Neziri, Gilford, Navarro, Rosales (Rodriguez-68th min), O'Neill (Adler-63rd min), Ghazali (Toyama-78th min), Benoit

by **Kagdazka and Pazhujebu** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 8:17 pm

Maintained by the Occult Studies Department

Dr. Zotkin: We return today for part two of my discussion of World Cup history with Kagdazka's most afeared legend, the horrible witch Baba Yaga. Again we take rest in her perverse hut, chicken legs wandering seemingly aimlessly beneath us.

Baba Yaga: There is always a rhyme and reason behind the navigation of this abode, but to your untrained eye perhaps it would seem random to you. Fate, you will find, dear Dr. Zotkin, is more pervasive than you could ever think.

Is fate, then, the force behind football?

Ah. You have asked quite a biting question. I sometimes strive to find the answer, desperately hoping it is 'yes,' but all too often I am left as frustrated as any mortal. Football, it seems, is the cruelest of cruel sports.

Well, our next era of history is one that often struggles to find itself a name. In Simeone di Bradini's famous non-fiction work about the World Cup, he calls this time between Cups 31 and 39 'Ancient and Attacking Arts.' Would you agree with that assessment?

It is as fitting a nickname as we can find, one supposes, though it obscures the true complexity of this time. The World Cup grew enormously during this time, with as many new nations hurtling to the front of the pack as old. di Bradini's description, for example, does great injustice to the nation of Az-Cz, who were one the most fearsome outfits the multiverse could know at this time.

Let's start, then, with World Cup 31, which Vilita and the Lowland Clans hosted. The finalists were Squornshelous and New Montreal States, two nations that had been slaving away for success since the nascent days of the tournament.

Yes, they had been striving for some time. The Psychycoes proved the better outfit in the final, winning three nil. But my great recollection from that tournament, dear tasty little Zotkin, was the quarterfinal between the two great enemies Krytenia and Starblaydia.

Oh dear. I suppose yet another incidence of the Men in Mauve destroying the poor little Aces?

Nay, sir, nay. Recall that by World Cup 31 Starblaydia had won but two measly world titles. They would not come to be an indestructible juggernaut until later. No, this matchup was one never forgotten by Kryties or Starblaydis, for the side in pale blue were victorious, for once. Two Ousevale Borough players were the heroes; Qasim Isserson put the first goal away in the 27th minute, and Samuel Duffy buried a 43rd minute chance on a breakaway. Jaime Oberlander's outfit were slain, though Starblaydia would have there revenge.

Several times over, in fact. I notice that you mention Jaime Oberlander...

We shall return to him later.

Too true. Next up was World Cup 32, a tournament that was surprising in many ways.

Cafundéu qualified for the first time, I recall that that was quite a shock.

It would not be the last time the Monopolists made it into the world's greatest tournament.

No. What was most notable about World Cup 32 was not the Cafundelenses, however. Clearly, it was Ariddia's triumph. After decades and decades of toil, and a period of inactivity, they at last captured the crown of the cup they created thirty-one editions before. They defeated Jeruselem in the final two goals to one. The championship made Ariddia the team to beat at the time.

But they were eventually joined by the finalists of the next tournament, World Cup 33, in a triad that ruled the multiverse for some time.

Indeed. Az-cz and Quakmybush hosted that Cup, with the former being an odd nation of kleptomaniac, nudist gnomes. Being shoved into one of the Az-cz groups, the monks of the Archregimancy opted to wear blindfolds rather than be subjected to such a disgusting sight as naked gnomes, and the rest of Group H (Schiavonia, Starblaydia, and Errinundera) followed suit. Starblaydia fared the worst from this arrangement, losing all three group stage matches.

Sounds horrifying.

Perhaps it was. In any case, from there the tournament always seemed to be hurtling towards a contest between the Atlantian Oceanian outfits of Bettia and Az-cz, especially after Ariddia were put out in the group stage. The final was a hotly contested affair that Bettia won three goals to one.

Next up, World Cup 34. It was made unique by the fact that the final was perhaps played in the Round of Sixteen.

You refer to the tie between the two previous world champions Bettia and Ariddia, do you not? Yes, it was a shame they had to meet that early, but Bettia had lost to Commerce Heights on the third matchday of the group stage and, you would have to say, deserved to be where they were. Ariddia defeated the champions three one. They would then narrowly beat Vilita in a seven-goal barnburner, sneak past Commerce Heights in extra time, and crush Milchama in the final to take home their second-ever championship.

You forget to mention that once again Starblaydia lost all three group stage matches.

Indeed, that would be the end of Jaime Oberlander's tenure with his home nation.

In World Cup 35, we at last received a deserved international showdown between the two greats of Bettia and Ariddia.

We did. The tournament was hosted by Bazalonia and the Lowland Clans, and nothing about the tournament quite lived up to its superb climax, a match that defined the era. The final started well for the Rouge-et-Noirs of Ariddia, with Raphaëlle du Valdor scoring in the second minute. But the Aroras of Bettia fought back with aplomb, and Peri Busilanta hammered in the equalizer in the 29th minute. For the rest of the first half, it was end-to-end stuff as the two unquestionably best sides in the world dueled it out for the World Cup trophy. One of the best matches I've ever seen, Dr. Zotkin. In the end, a corner for a Bettia side growing in confidence resulted in Frank Myfanwy heading in the winner at the near post.

But Ariddia surely managed to strike back in this great battle, didn't they?

Oh yes. Continuing the pattern of Ariddia-Bettia-Ariddia, the Rouge-et-Noirs captured their third title in five tournaments at World Cup 36 in the Unified Capitalizt States (formerly, and again to be, Commerce Heights) and Cafundéu. Indeed, the Cafundelenses were a story in and of themselves in World Cup 36, seeing as how they had only just qualified for the Cup for the first time just four editions before hosting it. But the tournament was a great success, well... for Ariddia at least. Their enemies Bettia were let down by their own attacking mindset in the Round of 16 as they were put out by Zwangzug. It was therefore up to Az-cz to stop the great Ariddians, and the gnomes nearly did, forcing extra time and then penalties at the Maracatuzão in Dunboor, but the Rouge-et-Noirs escaped the shootout alive. They then won by two goal margins in the semifinal and final, defeating Zwangzug and Errinundera respectively.

The dual battle for world supremacy at last became the triad we mentioned earlier in World Cup 37.

Hosted by Ad'ihan & Novapsolu, two largely unknown nations that for some inexplicable reason were associated with Liverpool England and Legalese, World Cup 37 did indeed end the endless dominance of Ariddia and Bettia at last. In fact, neither side made it past the quarterfinals. Watching, I always felt therefore that the gnomes must be the next to rise to the top, and I was proven correct. Az-cz deservedly claimed their first world title after coming from a goal behind against Demot to win three-one. The gnomes' manager Zax-Im would go down in history as one of the great bosses of all time.

And yet the joys were not over for Az-cz. World Cup 38 saw Zax-Im's side reclaim their title.

And yet still it will be remembered by Pazhujebi readers of this newspaper for other reasons, as it was the first-ever Cup that the Pazhujeb Islands participated in. Recall if you will Jaime Oberlander, who had last managed his native Starblaydia in World Cup 34. Well, he returned, but not with his home nation. The fledgling Pazhujeb Islands at last arrived on the global stage with as big a bang as they could muster, winning the 25th Baptism of Fire. His opponent in the final of that tournament would be no other than his home nation.

The Pazhujeb Islands failed to qualify for World Cup 38, though.

Perhaps they did, but debuting on the great stage of sport is often a rocky task for new nations. Captained by Qabe Oujadda, the Purple Sea Urchins did well to finish sixth in their qualifying group.

Oujadda would go on to father a player who far excelled his own skill.

Fušia Oujadda is indeed now one of our planet's best players, but we shall discuss the modern era at a later time. Az-cz established itself as the new nation to beat by offing Squornshelous in the final of World Cup 38, winning five goals to three. Note, however, that Valanora, an all-elven nation, finished third in that tournament. They would soon build an empire of their own.

Soon they would, but not before the Capitalizt SLANI won World Cup 39.

Correct. The successor state to Commerce Heights re-scaled the highest mountain of sport by slaughtering Milchama in the final. I will always remember this tournament, however, for the odd occurrence in Group G of the finals proper. Starblaydia, Candelaria And Marquez, Az-cz, and Demot all finished even on points, goals scored, goals against, and head-to-head. With no easy way to sort out who should go through, lots were drawn, and the Men in Mauve and the Big Blues went through.

Notable because it marked the beginning of Starblaydia's return to glory and the first of many forays into the knockouts for Candelaria And Marquez.

Ah, but you touch on eras that are yet to come!

Fair enough. We shall bring this portion of the interview to a close.

OOC: RP CUTOFF FOR MATCHDAY FOUR!

by **Nifferite** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 8:20 pm

Azrael wrote:Azrael's next match will be against the already eliminated Nifferite at the Ituraitz Sporting Ground (random note: This will be Azrael's first time playing there. All of Nifferite's BoF matches are played there, with their only win coming against Diol, who have lost all their matches).

The Nifferitan fans have started an internet petition saying they will firmly commit to the team's future if they can prove they can beat SOMEONE.

by **Azrael** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 9:15 pm

The Azrael Reporter
Sports

Timothy Strait, Sports Correspondent for The Azrael Reporter
Jan 9, 2012

Devereux announces Azrael's roster vs Nifferite

Devereux and Richards have once again fooled around with their starting lineup, mixing in plenty experienced and unfamiliar faces in the squad's lineup fro tomorrow's match against Nifferite. The roster is as follows:

Lineup vs Nifferite, Jan 10, 2012

Starters
1—Reece Gallagher—GK

2—Maxim Krasnovsky—RB
4—Brett Marshall (captain)—RCB
15—Lucas McLaughlin—LCB
20—Mikhail Neziri—LB

7—Darren Valentín—RM
18—Shaun O’Neill—CM
8—Malcolm Adler—CM
22—Baakr Alhassan—LM

10—Kazim Ghazali—RS
13—Marcus Benoit—LS

Subs
12—Gianni Rimondini—GK
23—Alex Wong—LB/RB
6—Francis Gilford—CDM
14—Damian Sanford—CM
16—Kieran Rosales—LM
9—Scott Harrison—ST
17—Ken Toyama—ST

Reserves
21—Danijel Predragovic—GK
3—Jacobson Tyler—CB
5—Claudio Rocha—LB/RB
11—Mikel Navarro—RM
19—Ryan Rodriguez—LM

Obviously the managers are taking advantage of their current placement in the table to allow their greener players to take the field and earn caliber international experience. So far Azrael has shown skill with their chemistry, even when the younger players are unfamiliar with situations such as these where the best of the best so fiercely contend.

Azrael expecting huge support from Nifferite

Azrael Football Association release
Jan 9, 2012

Nifferite wrote:The Nifferitan fans have started an internet petition saying they will firmly commit to the team's future if they can prove they can beat SOMEONE.

In that case, Azrael will be expecting plenty of Nifferitan supporters at the Ituraitz Sporting Ground tomorrow. We won't back down and we only wish the best of futures for Nifferite's growing national side.

by **Kagdazka and Pazhujebu** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 9:18 pm

Matchday Four Scores, Kagdazka and Pazhujebu Region

KEY
Q1 = Guaranteed First Place and Progression
QP = Guaranteed At Least Playoff
E = Eliminated

Group A
Baltskandio 0–3 Trafalgar
Equestrian States 1–2 Zona Azul
Sjovenia 0–4 Stockton-on-Tees

Group A                              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Zona Azul                            4   4  0  0   10   3  +7   12 QP
2 Sjovenia                             4   3  0  1    5   5   0    9 QP
3 Equestrian States                    4   2  0  2    5   4  +1    6 E
4 Trafalgar                            4   2  0  2    4   5  −1    6 E
5 Stockton-on-Tees                     4   1  0  3    5   4  +1    3 E
6 Baltskandio                          4   0  0  4    1   9  −8    0 E

Group B
Hutt River 4–0 New Holy Roman Empire
Actaris 1–1 Luziyca
Armed Bears 1–1 Yesopalitha

Group B                              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Yesopalitha                          4   3  1  0    8   1  +7   10
2 Hutt River                           4   3  0  1    7   2  +5    9
3 Armed Bears                          4   2  1  1    4   2  +2    7
4 Actaris                              4   1  1  2    3   5  −2    4 E
5 Luziyca                              4   1  1  2    2   4  −2    4 E
6 New Holy Roman Empire                4   0  0  4    0  10 −10    0 E

Group C
Karlada 2–1 Erikkesh
The Greater Aryan Race 1–2 Wight
Ellison Island 1–2 Swalenia

Group C                              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Swalenia                             4   3  1  0   11   3  +8   10 QP
2 Wight                                4   3  1  0   11   5  +6   10 QP
3 Karlada                              4   2  0  2    6   6   0    6 E
4 The Greater Aryan Race               4   1  1  2    5   8  −3    4 E
5 Erikkesh                             4   1  0  3    5  11  −6    3 E
6 Ellison Island                       4   0  1  3    5  10  −5    1 E

Group D
Byfugland 0–2 Sìgerén
Switzida 0–0 United Kingdom of the Southwest
Numbadon 0–0 Elmonia

Group D                              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Sìgerén                              4   4  0  0    9   1  +8   12 Q1
2 Elmonia                              4   1  2  1    5   3  +2    5
3 Numbadon                             4   1  2  1    3   4  −1    5
4 Byfugland                            4   0  3  1    3   5  −2    3
5 United Kingdom of the Southwest      4   0  3  1    1   3  −2    3
6 Switzida                             4   0  2  2    2   7  −5    2 E

Group E
Puerto Candelaria 0–2 Überhölichschleissen
Oasirica 3–0 The Araucania
Pelmany 1–2 Landereien

Group E                              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Oasirica                             4   4  0  0   10   0 +10   12 QP
2 Überhölichschleissen                 4   3  1  0   10   2  +8   10 QP
3 Landereien                           4   1  2  1    3   3   0    5 E
4 Puerto Candelaria                    4   1  1  2    3   7  −4    4 E
5 Pelmany                              4   0  1  3    4  11  −7    1 E
6 The Araucania                        4   0  1  3    2   9  −7    1 E

by **Cascratia** » Mon Jan 09, 2012 11:41 pm

"Pass to Nia! He's wide open!" Glevin cried out in exasperation as the ball was lost to the second-team again. "Roko! You'll get nowhere playing like that!"

Sometimes he wondered how he put up with that boy. He was talented, determined and definitely skilled, but he also hogged the ball and let his personal feelings get in the way of the game.

"That's it! I want more like that!" When he put his mind to it, he was a remarkable player and a valuable asset to the team,

"No!" The coach shout with barely-contained frustration as Roko managed to get himself fouled- fouled!- by the second-team. "I don't think I can take much more of this. End the training!"

"Alright." The team stepped out of the training field.

"Roko! What was that? I've been watching from the start but I still haven't quite figured it out yet. What were you thinking, playing like that?"

"Coach-"

"Forget it!" He interrupted harshly. "You need to pass to your team-mates! You need to play like a team! We'll have no chance in our last match against West Angola if you carry on like this! I want you all to think over your training today- especially you, Roko!- and I want an improvement tomorrow!" The teen looked set to protest, but the dismissal was quite clear and his friends were quick to usher him out.

"What am I going to do with him?" He didn't expect an answer, and he didn't get one. How was it one of the best players was one of the most difficult? Rokonara had shown serious distain for Nianara's performance as a one-man team, but sometimes the two were so alike it was practically painful!

Usually, aside from big-headedness (which Rolinara and Nianara insisted was normal for him) he was a competent player who knew when he needed to improve and took criticism without too much complaint. But sometimes, when tensions were high between him and Nianara for example, he had a tendency to play selfishly or even spitefully. He needed to learn to put aside his personal feelings and focus on their main goal if they were going to get anywhere in this competition.

Rolinara had heard him raving about having a great destiny, and his friends often teased him for it, but the sad thing was that he could have a great destiny if he only tried to work with the others!

There was something else to that though. It was close to obsession how he went on about his 'destiny'… it was almost as if he was afraid of amounting to nothing. Afraid of trying only to fail, but he tried anyway and that was the key to the success he hoped and worked for, he just needed to get his head in the game and pass the ball every once in a while.

The coach shook his head. Yes, Rokonara was set for great things. Now he just needed to make the most of it, use it to his advantage. He was a fantastic midfielder and a passionate player, and Glevin sincerely hoped that he would help see the team through to the next round.

Baptism of Fire 45 Rosters/RP/Scores Thread (IC)

ESPN: Equestrian Sporting Ponies Network

Who is online