Copa Rushmori IX Everything Thread

[Polar Islandstates]

THE FEDERATION OF POLAR ISLANDSTATES ROSTER FOR COPA RUSHMORI IX
Nation Name: The Federation of Polar Islandstates
Shorthand Nation Names: The Federation, The FPI
Demonym: Polarians/Valhallans
Team Nickname: The Terns
Official Supporters Group: The Twitchers (as in, birdwatchers)

KIT COLOURS:
Courtesy of Barrengeka Kits, Astograth:

HOME STADIUM:

HOME SUPPORT: The Ostkurven - Home of the Twitchers

FULL ROSTER:
(Caps in brackets indicate appearances from the bench)

Coach: Sol Kirkkegaard, 57
Sol Kirkkegaard is the finest tactical mind our nation has ever produced, and has guided his teams to success almost without fail with a calm and cool exterior that does nothing to hint at what his calculative mind is really thinking. He rarely flaps under pressure, and is well respected by fans, players, and press alike. He was the natural choice to lead our nation into the development of their first official international team, and carefully assessed the players through the exhibition A vs B and Road To The World Cup matches, the link to which can be found in my signature. Through this he developed a key core of players to rely on, and whilst almost all of them are retiring now, he is nurturing a second wave of talented youngsters to lead the Terns further on with the help of U21s coach Gregorz van der Riise. Following a disappointing last cycle at the World Cup, he bounced back, and with many inspirational and bold tactical choices he lead the team to the title in the last Copa Rushmori, and as co-hosts of the most recent World Cup the team were expected to shine. However, a penalty shoot out failure in the second round against Andossa Se Mitrin Vega broke Twitchers' hearts across the nation, and with national confidence seemingly low across all sports, he will face a huge task of confidence building if he is to instil a winning mindset into his title defenders. He has picked much the same side as featured in the World Cup, believing that an exit on penalties is not the fault of team selection.

Assistant: Joachim Schwartz, 47
Brought in by Sol to cover the absence of Morten Yarbin, former indoor soccer coach Joachim Schwartz has now been appointed the position on a permanent basis. Despite being used to coaching on a smaller pitch, he very much advocates the use of wingers, and as such has found himself at odds with Sol's preferred tactics on a number of occasions. It is Sol's belief that this difference in professional opinion will provide a healthy and progressive atmosphere with which to coach, and shouldn't be discouraged at all. He is hard nosed, and tough to win over, but incredibly forceful and a powerful personality on the sidelines.


#1 - GK - Lars Hegg Gammel - Age 32 - Avidia United (Krytenia) - 99 Caps, 1 Assist
Lars moved abroad to Cotdelapoms in order to try and win a place in the Terns squad, fearing he'd never get the chance if he stayed stuck behind Atle Andreasson at SK. The move have paid off, replacing first Atle on the bench, and then Karlsson in the starting line up. His talent is undeniable, and his quick reactions were key to the Terns claiming the third place medal when they did, keeping their only clean sheet of the finals as they beat Krytenia 1-0. Following the collapse of the Cotdelapomais league, it was this performance that alerted his presence to Krytenia giants Avidia United, for whom he now earns his living. Will be injured for the first match against Mangolana, but will look set to win his landmark hundredth cap against Princess Beatrice Isle in the second group stage match.

#2 - DR - Zacharias Juul - Age 25 - Jan Mayen Islanders - 45(2) Caps, 2 Assists, 3 Goals
Called up but never used in previous senior squads, Juul was once again been called up for the Copa as backup to Thor Lossler, but some impressive subsitute performances saw him win the starting position on a permanent basis as the Terns lifted the title. He is fast, a natural leader, and calm and confident on the ball, and will make waves at this tournament as they Terns attempt to retain their title following his move to Jan Mayen Islanders.

#3 - DC - Sander Ljungberg - Age 29 - SK Franz Josef City - 78(11) Caps, 4 Assists, 2 Goals
With his movement, dependability, and extravagant tackling, Sander Ljungberg has proved himself to be a natural and worthy successor to Maarten Berg. Berg's retirement had left something of a hole in the heart of Sol's oft-favoured plans, but Ljungberg showed that all was not lost, and its almost as if he's been in the side all along. Has a turn of speed that can keep up with almost anything any fleet-footed strikers might try to pull on him, and with Urfstadt next to him, the two are hard to get past.

#4 - DC - Torre Urfstadt - Age 25 - Club ESF (Valanora) - 31(11) Caps, 1 Assist
Urfstadt is one of the most exciting players to come from the Torshavn ranks in a long time, and was been a crucial part of Torshavn's continued presence in Divisjon One, and a vital component in their Cygnus Cup winning squad. This brought him to the attention of Vanorian scouts, and a big money move saw him playing in the VSL. Fast, powerful, and one of the few shining lights in the Terns' World Cup campaign, now the finer points of positioning and leadership reveal themselves to him, he is a truly formidable defender, the likes of which the Federation hasn't seen since Niko Marek. Expect his 6'8" frame to be a danger in the opposing penalty box as well. We saw flashes of brilliance at the World Cup, and now's the time to make that pay.

#5 - DL - Edvar Folke - Age 24 - Merrilin FC (Civil Citizenry) - 22(1) Caps, 1 Assist, 1 Goal
With the retirement of Steffan Pekarik in what was a fairly uninspiring World Cup run, Sol wasn't overly bowled over by the performances of his back up, Robin Arnfeldt. Therefore, with the left back position completely open, in from a string of performances in the U-21s comes the pair of Baalsen and Folke. A hugely dynamic presence in the defence, Folke plays his way in the King's League for Merrilin, and his huge promise has impressed enough to deserve the starting position, his exciting runs being a particular highlight.

#6 - DMC - Jorgen Hauge - Age 29 - Battle (Zarbli) - 107(4) Caps, 21 Assists, 10 Goals - CAPTAIN
A well established played in the Zarblese Duke League, Hauge was snapped up by Battle from Cross SC a few seasons ago, and hasn't looked back since. Now a regular in the starting lineup for the Terns, his marauding hatchet-man presence in front of the defence means attackers can't relax for a second. A long future in the national team beckoned for Jorgen, who is impressively large even by Polarian standards, and he has a fearsome reputation that has led to him being given the captain's armband, such is the level of importance he holds for the Terns. If he does his job correctly, it allows others to do theirs more easily, and he sees everything that happens on the pitch. Not bad with and from set pieces, either.

#7 - MR - Jon Kjaer - Age 27 - Mar Sara FC (Valanora) - 28(11) Caps, 15 Assists, 5 Goals
With six caps and three assists for the U-21s, Kjaer was a victim of Sol's tactical preference when it comes to his national side potential, and this marks his time with a starting position thanks to Schwartz's persuasion. Nonetheless, he seems to have always been around, and the fact he's only twenty-seven catches many by surprise, as he had been a regular and feared feature of the SK starting lineup for many a year. His move to Valanora seems to have made him even more potent, and this foray into using wing players for the national team couldn't have come at a better time both for Kjaer and the Terns. His eagerness to cut in and support Irndtor will be greatly appreciated, and his crossing isn't exactly shabby to begin with.

#8 - MC - Jorgen-Franz Bru - Age 25 - East Franz Athletic - 13(2) Caps, 2 Assists, 4 Goals
Captaining the Chicks to their Di Bradini Cup win, Bru's star has been rising almost unstoppably ever since, shining in an FC Torshavn side that finished third and won the Cygnus Cup. Along with the other star of that side, Torre Urfstadt, Bru accepted the offer of play at a higher level, and developed even further as part of the dynamic world champions East Franz Athletic last season. Alongside Hauge, he can provide a truly industrious engine room for the Terns here, and is a greatly loved positive member of the team.

#9 - ST - Amadeus Irndtor - Age 29 - SK Franz Josef City - 39(31) Caps, 8 Assists, 36 Goals
With a lethal left boot and a sixpence turning circle, this speedy player is getting his big chance in the famous number nine that used to belong to his arch-rival/inspiration, Timo Skye. His recent performances will have him brimming with confidence, as will his performance for SK as they won the title a few seasons ago, outshining Dei Ormache as an attacking force, and revelling in front of attacking midfielders like Alexio Del Nieran and Robin Hjik as he romped to the top goalscorer accolade. If he is to fully replace Skye's potency, he will rely on the support form van Sorensen, Kjaer, and Berghaus. And whilst that may be considered a weakness of Irndtor's, the thought of those four attacking forces converging on the penalty box at once could never be considered a weakness for the Terns. In this way, he is a catalyst for a new style of Polarian attacking play.

#10 - TQ - Alexsandr van Sorensen - Age 26 - Petardos S/A (Cafundéu) - 62(46) Caps, 44 Assists, 53 Goals
Shining light of the side Alexsandr is only 26, but seems to have been around forever. Played a vital role for Jan Mayen before his move to Cafundéu where he continues to impress and is learning every day, impressing the scouts from Petardos S/A enough to be offered a contract. Suffers from rare brain condition synaesthesia, meaning his senses get muddled up in his head, but manages to not let this affect his attractive attacking play - indeed, if anything it seems to help him. Captained the U-21s in the Draggonnii Inviyatti, showing his leadership on the pitch, and likes to link in from the midfield, which is where he plays for Petardos S/A. Sol will be playing him as a supporting deep lying striker for Irndtor, or a forward thinking midfielder operating in front of Hauge and Bru. Ultimately, he is to be a trequartista, applying his explosive acceleration and going on mazy dribbles that often end in a shot from his sweet right boot. Could change a game in an instant, will almost certainly become an all-time legend, and he is without a doubt the Terns' key player at this tournament, and possibly of all time. Anything good will likely come through him.

#11 - ML - Ole Berghaus - Age 26 - Gimnasia (Kagdazka and Pazhujebu) - 20(2) Caps, 10 Assists, 1 Goal
Ole Berghaus has had a wonderful few seasons for Gimnasia, and with Jorgensen getting a lot of flak from unhappy supporters, he won the chance to represent his country at the Copa, where he excelled in a cross field partnership with Kjaer. He is nimble and quick for a big man, and his imposing presence on the wing can be the first line of defence. Going forwards, he is explosive and powerful, and will be drifting into the box before you know it. Is conscious of the distant threat of Kjetil Huytspurr, and will be eager to cement his place in the squad for years to come. Revels in front of a big crowd.

#12 - GK - Jan Rasmus - Age 27 - FC Axel Heiburg - 4(2) Caps
From his early days at the U-21s squad, it was clear to all that Jan Rasmus has talent. Finally, after several seasons working the penalty area at FC Axel Heiburg and becoming a real goalkeeper you can trust, he has been called up once more to the snior squad, so that he may add to his small collection of caps. Expected to start the first match against Mangolana in Gammel's absence.

#13 - GK - Dario Szezlak - Age 23 - East Kent (Civil Citizenry) - Uncapped
Despite moving abroad to play his football in Civil Citizenry, Dario is known as one of the finest goalkeeping talents the Terns have stacked away for another day. In a position that Polarians aren't known for excelling at, Szezlak is one of the exceptions, possibly thanks to his experiences abroad, but he certainly brings a new opinion on positioning to the side, and has been known to teach his other goalkeepers as much as the coaches do.

#14 - MC - Iulian Finnibaturinn - Age 25 - Therakham ZL (Kagdazka and Pazhujebu) - 25(4) Caps, 5 Assists, 3 Goals
Iulian has nine caps, two assists, and one goal for the U-21s, and although first first team performances have been relatively limited so far, his performances have Jorgen Hauge looking over his shoulder nervously. He's a commanding presence, and likes to sit as part of a central midfield pair, supporting a more attack-minded partner and protecting the defence. He can also be used to swing free-kicks from long range for attackers to head attempts at goal, and though his shooting isn't that good he is labelled as a star of the future, and could make a real name for himself at this tournament if afforded the game time.

#15 - DL - Luka Baalsen - Age 25 - East Franz Athletic - 3(7) Caps
One of the stars of van der Riise's Chicks side for many years, this East Franz left back has impressed hugely during East Franz Athletic's run to being Champions' Cup title-lifters and hugely deserves his repeated call ups to the main Terns side. One of many youngster who has waited patiently for the legendary Pekarik and de Huyer to retire, he will seize this chance with both hands if given the chance to by Edvar Folke. Fast and intelligent, Baalsen can drill the balls in from long distance like a missile, so keepers will need to beware of his ability.

#16 - DR - Dima Petersen - Age 22 - Ituraitz FC (Astograth) - 3(8) Caps
Without much history in the national team, Dima is one of the wave of talented young wing backs the nation seems to be awash with at the moment, and following some impressive performances in the World Cup, Sol has handed the man based in Ituraitz another call up. He is lithe and nimble, quick to change direction and a difficult marker to shift. His tackles are, well, when he tackles you, you stay tackled, put it that way, and his ferocity and determination is a key part of why Sol has called him up.

#17 - MC - Niko Lepka - Age 23 - Royal Vosaroni Antenelli (Erathore) - 6(8) Caps, 8 Assists, 2 Goals
Only 23 years old, many had expected Lepka to be captaining the Chicks in the last Di Bradini Cup. However, Sol saw the talent this young midfielder has to bring the table, and has brought him in accordingly for the Copa, where a number of short cameos offered mere tasters of what he is capable off. Playing for Atletik Thessia before moving to RVA, he is well experienced and highly thought of in Erathore, and likes to give as good as he gets, physically speaking. His real skill lies with distribution, however, and he is seen as the next worthy successor to Demarchelier as a truly creative presence in the midfield. Certainly one to watch as he is another contingent of what is a remarkably youthful Terns side.

#18 - MC - Artur Rochemback - Age 28 - Sporting Iturributa (Iturributa) - 1(2) Caps
With Henning Tir's decision to retire from international football in order to focus on his club career, there has opened up a space for a deep lying midfield pass-maker, a spot that Artur Rochemback fits perfectly. With no real breakthrough and some mediocre performances whilst playing the Federation, Rochemback moved abroad to Astograth, where he excelled, winning a player of the year accolade as Sporting lifted one of the last titles before Iturributa's independence. Keen to establish himself as one of the top players in the Iturributan league, he now has the chance to finally establish himself as one of the Terns.

#19 - ST - Ellis Elmsvikur - Age 24 - Iturributa United (Iturributa) - 7(8) Caps, 3 Assists, 5 Goals
Much is hoped for from Elmsvikur, and amongst a fiercely talented quartet of young strikers in Elmsvikur, Kvitchenko, Bergen, and Kaplowitz, it is Kvitchenko and Elmsvikur who are making the biggest strides into the national side. Imposing and athletic, Elmvikur is the complete package. Fast, nimble, packed with stamina, a dead ball ace, good in the air, and with a lethal shot. He can play as a poacher, or as a supporting striker. You name it, he can do it, and has done. Very highly thought of in the Iturributan league, his star is one to watch, and he will be a key part of Terns sides in the future.

#20 - ST - Diedrich Kvitchenko - Age 24 - East Franz Athletic - 3(9) Caps, 6 Goals
With six goals in his few appearances so far, Kvitchenko is looking like developing into a lethal striker, and like Irndtor is capable of playing out wide left or right and cutting in if required to do so. He is fast, and likes to use this to surprise defenders, changing direction and making a darting run that finishes in a first-time shot before many are even aware he changed direction. His ability to find space like this has been likened to witchcraft by a few defenders, and though he might not touch the ball much during the match, when he does, he uses it efficiently. Let's face it, there were two Polarian strikers in the CC-winning East Franz squad, and the nigh-on legendary Henning Blonqvist wasn't the one that made the Terns squad. Yeah. That good.

#21 - AMC - Luc Demarchelier - Age 32 - Cafundó do Juta (Cafundéu) - 103(36) Caps, 73 Assists, 15 Goals - VICE-CAPTAIN
Demarchelier was a key part of the Terns reaching the third place spot when they did. Naturally more of a driving attacking midfielder than a dictatorial playmaker, he will have to get used to playing a deeper role by the looks of the squad Kirkkegaard has assembled. Demarchelier impressed enough whilst in the now defunct Mytanar leagues to ensure plenty of playing time during past campaigns, with his fantastic cross for Marek in that third place playoff thought to be one of many reasons he was snapped up by the Cafundulense giants of Cafundó do Juta. His powerful runs with the ball seemingly glued to his feet are a regular sight during the closing parts of many matches, as his stamina will terrify tiring defenders. When Demarchelier is on form, the ball seems glued to his feet, and whilst a little older now, he is perhaps the most devastating weapon that Kirkkegaard holds on his bench.

#22 - DC - Jan Kowalski - Age 31 - East Franz Athletic - 39(10) Caps, 1 Assist, 1 Goal
Being thrown in at the deep end is as good a way to start off your international career as any I suppose, and Jan Kowalski did just that. An imposing presence at the centre of the park for East Franz, he was a dependable substitute at his first World Cup, scoring a fluke goal in the group stage against The Holy Empire, and following the retirement of the imperious Niko Marek he attempted to prove that the starting place in the lineup deserves to be his. Despite being a key part of East Franz's rise to the title of world champions, he is left on the bench thanks to the dominance of Urfstadt and Ljungberg. Almost a sweeper, he will hang back and mop up any spillages before the keeper is needed, using his quick burst of pace to surprise attackers.

#23 - DC - Luka van Brekke - Age 29 - FC Cape St Paul - 4(4) Caps
Quietly putting in solid performances week after week and keeping out of the limelight will get you far... eventually. And after roughly a decade of first team performances for St Paul, van Brekke is finally getting his chance with the Terns. Dependable and reliable, if unspectacular, van Brekke is a fine defender and well capable of hoding his own against the best of the Federation, and as shown at the Copa in his clutch of substitute appearances, the best in the region. Can he do it again? I don't see why not.

TACTICS:
The Polarian game is fast, quick, and physical. They won't give you a second on the ball to think, and they won't hold back in the tackle. It is an attack minded game, though when the full backs bomb forward, expect to see Hauge hang back to mop up any counter attacks. In the centre of the park they will play a possession based midfield game, though a defence splitting pass could come at any moment towards the fast and direct attack.
4-2-3-1
--------------------- Gammel ---------------------
--- Juul --- Ljungberg -- Urfstadt --- Folke ---
--------------- Hauge ------- Bru -----------------
-- Kjaer ------- van Sorensen ------ Berghaus --
---------------------- Irndtor ----------------------

Modification: +3


Record going into CRIX:
Played 209, Won 118, Drawn 42, Lost 49, Scored 428, Conceded 250, Goal Difference +178
Top Goalscorers:
Timo Skye - 117
Patrick Ackermann-Finn - 57
Alexsandr van Sorensen - 53
Most Assists:
Luc Demarchelier - 73
Ole van Jendrisen - 68
Alexsandr van Sorensen - 44

Penalty Taker: Amadeus Irndtor
Free Kick Taker: Alexsandr van Sorensen
Corner Taker: Alexsandr van Sorensen

THE OPPONENT CAN
Choose my goalscorers? Yes
Godmod scoring events? Yes
RP injuries to my players? Yes, within reason, and I reserve the right to change the severity in a follow-up RP
Godmod injuries to my players? Yes, as above
Hand out yellow cards to my players? Yes
Hand out red cards to my players? Yes, but only 2 per match maximum
Godmod other events? TG me first, but I'm always open to ideas

[Jen O the Hill]

JoH scientists and engineers, during a rare moment pseudo-sober genius, have developed a machine capable of bringing cartoon characters to life. Once back to their normal “baked” status, the genius was gone and the group could think of no better use than to animate 22 characters to fil the national football squad. Here is what they came up with…

RP permissions: Anything goes
Formation: 4-4-2 (+0)

Managers: Ren & Stimpy

Starters in bold
Forwards
The Roadrunner
Speed Buggy
Brainy Smurf
Hong Kong Fuey

Midfield
Snagglepuss
Jessica Rabbit
Marvin the Martian
Underdog
Sylvester
Tigger
Space Ghost
Rafiki

Defenders
Jabberjaws
Pepe Le Pew
Shaggy
Bullwinkle
Fred Flintstone
Huckleberry Hound
Fat Albert
He-Man

Keepers
Grape Ape
Captain Caveman

[Jen O the Hill]

It was madness in the Ethereal City as the newly animated Toon Squad faced off against Djocoranga in match that seemed to tumble recklessly from one end of the pitch to another. On more than one occasion it seemed as if neither side had any control of the happenings and on only a very few possessions did either side seem to be an actual footy squad.

The Toon Squad opened up the scoring in the 27th minute as The Roadrunner sped down the left side leaving defenders choking on a trail of dust. No one is quite sure just how a trail of dust was able to rise from an obviously over watered pitch, but it was enough for the Roadrunner to break free and beat the keeper who quite visibly flinched at the loud “Beep Beep” directed at him.

But Djocoranga were not to be denied as they pulled themselves together enough to bookend halftime with a pair of goals that proved JoH keeper Grape Ape to be a bit slow even though he covered most of the net with his big purple butt.

Controversy arose in the 74th minute as Toon Squad as Center Back Pepe Le Pew was shown red for excessive stinking that caused the attacker to writhe on the ground puking. But the shown card was removed and the ensuing penalty kick negated as Jessica Rabbit used her voluptuous assets to influence Mapletish Referee Jan Gebhard into seeing things her way. Nearly every man in the stadium was more than a bit jealous as his face was quite nearly buried in her ample… well you know.

The reversal of that call gave the Toon Squad new life as Marvin the Martian lofted the ball forward to Snagglepuss who found himself in space and move forward at a mighty shuffle. Speedbuggy caused some confusion as the drifted the box causing defenders to scatter and allowing Underdog to make a strong move toward the net. The high cross was expertly headed into the net and JoH escaped with a draw to salvage a point.

When asked about the upcoming match with Aquillian, one member of the Toon Squad was quoted as saying “I say… I mean I say there Son, I thought you said Sicilian. Which reminds me of a pie my momma used to make…”

[Socialist States Owen]

Randall rings the changes as the FSSO overcome West Zirconia
Clint Covey reports from Darmen

FSSO - 1
McCroft 34

WEST ZIRCONIA - 0

The FSSO have brought a much changed squad to this tournament and got off to a good start with a win over West Zirconia.

The most obvious change from the squad setup in the Cup of Harmony is the change of the number system, which now reflects the 23 player squad size rather than player number preference. However, many changes have been made to the lineup of the squad; much to the surprise of this reporter who witnessed the FSSO just miss out on Cup of Harmony 51 glory in the final against the Copa Rushmori IX's hosts, Darmen. Goalkeeper Rick Connors has been dropped in favour of 36 year old veteran Jerry Watchman. This is most likely a sentimental gesture, as Watchman is expected to retire from international football after this tournament. Youngster Buschak Dassuna has been dropped as Dennis Arnold, the right back with 154 caps who was dropped from the World Cup 59 qualifying squad, returns to the fold after an encouraging career revival in his latest domestic season at Directus.

More dramatic changes have been made in midfield. Steve Thompson has been returned to the number 8 jersey and central attacking midfield position for the first time in 9 years as Carlos Aduna's decline continues. He didn't even make the 23 man squad. Persa Ryans takes the number 6 jersey and finally gets to prove himself again in the holding midfield position. Meanwhile, Clive Dawson has been moved to the bench while Tom Riley and Jim Cotterill come in for Aduna and John Buckson. Finally, Scott Daley and Chad Parsons have both been dropped from the squad. West Zirconia, last nights opponents, have gone with the opposite policy and selected an unchanged squad despite a dissapointing Cup of Harmony performance due to their encouraging performances in the last cycle of World Cup qualifying.

The game was no spectacle, in fact the Stadio Rushmore in the Darmeni city of Johnho only filled 42,550 of its 70,000 seats. However it was not boring by any means, especially for the FSSO who tried to play a free flowing, attacking game from the start. Their first good chance came in the eigth minute from Lee Sharp. He cut between Jason Clemence and Stuart Palmer with a mazy dribble before shooting at goal from a narrow angle with the outside of his boot, only to hit the side netting. Five minutes later he had another chance, curling the ball towards goal from 30 yards on his left foot. However Mike Chapman was ready to intercept the shot by palming it past the post. Soon the FSSO gained a deserved lead; James McCroft created the goal himself, latching on to the rebounding ball after one of his free kicks hit the Zirconian wall, before smashing it into the top corner from the edge of the box after skipping past Jason Clemence.

Clemence and Palmer were both having a nightmare while the rest of their team defended competentley, and in the much more stale second half they almost gave the game away for sure. In the 62nd minute, Palmer tried to find Clemence with a ball out to the left but his weak ball was intercepted with ease by Lee Sharp, who stormed forward and crossed to Steve Thompson. However the FSSO captain was unable to convert the chance, slicing his right footed volley just wide of the post from 10 yards. However, West Zirconia were never quite out of the game, coming close with their own chance shortly after when Ray Scott skied over from just 6 yards. But their best chance came right at the end when Scott put Steve Allerton through on goal when the FSSO defence completely fell asleep, but Allerton's shot was somehow kept out by Daniel Belgrave, who acrobatically intercepted his finessed finish from 10 yards.

The FSSO now go on to play the Ansernia Islands. After that they play Sargossa, Darmen (the hosts, against whom the FSSO will be looking for revenge) and finally Astograth.

[Harjeland]

In the 20th minute vs. Saugeais, the commentary between Jakub Solvyetsky and Karl Badden...

"Harjeland advancing slowly now through Ómarsson, twisting and turning. Oh, lovely bit of skill there by Ómarsson, and he's past Öztürk, advancing down the wing, looks for the pass, but Ásbergsson's well guarded by Schultz-Ecklund. Still Ómarsson, but he's running into trouble. He's crowded out by Barker and Rheinholt, he needs help. Rheinholt goes in for the challenge, and Saugeais have it back!. Looking dangerous on the counter now, too many men can't get back. Still Rheinholt. Now Barker, back to Rheinholt, who runs forward, finds Schultz-Ecklund across field. Schultz-Ecklund with the pass, blocked, still Schultz-Ecklund. Still Schultz-Ecklund! Now he's be stopped by Valsson, plays it back to Helton. Kristínarsson goes for the challenge, good skill from Helton! Taking on Víkingsson, edge of the box, good footwork from Helton, looks like he's beaten two, and oh my! Helton's down inside the box, tripped by Víkingsson! And it looks like there's only one thing the referee can do here, and yes, he's given it! Penalty to Saugeais!"

"Yeh, definite foul there by Víkingsson. He 'as to be careful where he's puttin' his feet, the lad! But you 'ave to feel sympathy for 'im, I 'ad more than my fair share 'o penalties given against me in my career. Helton looked to be through, but Víkingsson's just desperate an' got his foot caught up in 'im. If he'd been through there, he could well 'ave scored! Looks worse on the replay, definitely intentional. You'd think from a lad like 'im, who's usually so mature of a player, he wouldn't do rash things like that."

"And now, the question is, who will take it? It looks like Helton reached for the ball, but looks like Ruslan wants to take it! A little bit of an argument there, but Helton's said yes. The youngster seems desperate to get on the scoresheet here. And the ref making sure every player's behind the line, having a few words with Dan Nagato there. There goes the whistle, Ruslan runs up to the ball...and YES! FANTASTIC PENALTY! 'KEEPER HAD NO CHANCE! TOP CORNER!"

"My, that is a fantastic penalty! Hartmannsson guessed right, but I don't think he was ready for it anyway! Lookin' at the replay here, and wow. He puts great spin on the ball, so it looks like it's going out, but it curves in! I almost thought it hit the sidenettin'!"

"So Saugeais one-nil up now, and in control of the game. Chances for Harjeland getting back into this, Karl?"

"Well, obviously, it's still early in the game, but Saugeais 'ave looked thoroughly on top 'ere, they're such an experienced side and it just seems so 'ard to see us gettin' outta 'ere today with a win. The defense needs to sort thing out, 'an I suspect that if we concede again, the game'll be over. The midfield as well need to get more balls up to Rögnvaldsson an' Sigurgeirsson, they're too isolated an' they can't get much done. I say push men up more, get the ball out to the wings, give Ómarsson some material, 'cause that's about the only lad I can see out there now that can get anythin' done."

"So back to the middle now, where Harjeland will continue the match with possession..."

[Polar Islandstates]

~YOU ARE THE MANAGER - COPA RUSHMORI IX EDITION~
~"DEFEND YOUR TITLE"~

*START*

*LEVEL ONE: MANGOLANA*

You are at MUFFIN PARK, in SCOTT CITY. There is a slight breeze in the air, and you are facing MANGOLANA. ALLEN FULLER is running down the wing with the ball towards your DEFENCE.

*Choose your weapon*
TORRE URFSTADT
SANDER LJUNGBERG
ZACHARIAS JUUL
EDVAR FOLKE

>> Torre Urfstadt

TORRE URFSTADT attempts to tackle ALLEN FULLER but is unsuccessful. He is now out of position. ALLEN FULLER passes the ball into the gap for AKEEM HOWARD, who is in a shooting position. He shoots, and scores the first goal of the match.

0-1

You chose incorrectly. The correct choice would have been ZACHARIAS JUUL.

ALEXSANDR VAN SORENSEN runs through the middle of the park, he has plenty of support, and plenty of options. AMADEUS IRNDTOR is on the edge of the box, and OLE BERGHAUS and JON KJAER have both lost their markers.

*What do you do*
Pass to JON KJAER
Pass to OLE BERGHAUS
Pass to AMADEUS IRNDTOR

>> Lob the keeper.

I'm sorry, I didn't understand that. For a list of valid commands, type HELP.

>> Pass to Jon Kjaer.

JON KJAER receives the ball, but his cross is cut out by JACKSON WEATHERALL, and the move comes to nothing.

You chose incorrectly. The correct choice would have been Pass to AMADEUS IRNDTOR.

MANGOLANA counter-attack, and with pace they have burst through the defence. GREGORY NENA beats the offside trap, leaving SANDER LJUNGBERG with a choice.

*What do you do*
Make a last ditch tackle
Track his run and hope TORRE URFSTADT arrives to support you
Run to cover the post

>> Make a last ditch tackle

You foul GREGORY NENA, conceding a PENALTY. SANDER LJUNGBERG receives a YELLOW CARD. He is not sent off because TORRE URFSTADT arrived to support you.

You chose incorrectly. The correct choice would have been Track his run and hope TORRE URFSTADT arrives to support you.

TAPPY SHOGUN lines up to take the penalty, leaving JAN RASMUS with a decision to make.

*What do you do*
Dive RIGHT
Dive LEFT
Cover the CENTRE

>> Dive right

TAPPY SHOGUN drives the ball straight down the middle, scoring a goal.

0-2

You chose incorrectly. The correct choice would have been Cover the CENTRE.


HALF-TIME
CHECKPOINT
AUTOSAVE


You make a substitution to change the shape of the team.

*Which substitution do you make*
ELLIS ELMSVIKUR for AMADEUS IRNDTOR
DIEDRICH KVITCHENKO for JORGEN-FRANZ BRU
DIMA PETERSEN for ZACHARIAS JUUL
NIKO LEPKA for JORGEN-FRANZ BRU

>> Niko Lepka for Jrogen-Franz Bur

I'm sorry, I didn't understand that. For a list of valid commands, type HELP.

>> Bugger

I'm sorry, I didn't understand that. For a list of valid commands, type HELP.

>> Niko Lepka for Jorgen-Franz Bru

NIKO LEPKA comes on for JORGEN-FRANZ BRU. As a result, ALEXSANDR VAN SORENSEN takes up a much more advanced role, and finds himself on the edge of the box with the ball and with plenty of options. AMADEUS IRNDTOR is on the edge of the box, CHRIS MARTE is off his line, and OLE BERGHAUS and JON KJAER have both lost their markers.

*What do you do*
Pass to JON KJAER
Pass to OLE BERGHAUS
Pass to AMADEUS IRNDTOR

>> LOB THE KEEPER!!

#@#@#@# YOU HAVE UNCOVERED A SECRET! #@#@#@#

ALEXSANDR VAN SORENSEN lobs the ball, looping over a stranded CHRIS MARTE and into the goal.

1-2

You chose correctly.

The game progresses in a steady manner until the last few minutes. A string of corners for Polar Islandstates have come to nothing and now AMADEUS IRNDTOR is signalling to the bench with cramp. You have one substitution left to make, and two attackers left on the bench. One minute is left on the clock, and you have a corner.

*Which substitution do you make*
ELLIS ELMSVIKUR for AMADEUS IRNDTOR
DIEDRICH KVITCHENKO for AMADEUS IRNDTOR

>> Diedrich Kvitchenko for Amadeus Irndtor

DIEDRICH KVITCHENKO comes on for AMADEUS IRNDTOR and takes his place marking CHRIS MARTE. ALEXSANDR VAN SORENSEN takes the corner, inswinging to the near post. DIEDRICH KVITCHENKO beats CHRIS MARTE to the ball in the air, flicking it towards the far post with his hand. EDVAR FOLKE is in the right place at the right time at the far post and pokes it home for a goal.

2-2

You chose correctly.


FULL-TIME
CHECKPOINT
AUTOSAVE

NEXT LEVEL?

[Antoletia]

"There is really something to say about 0-0 ties."

"Yeah that they boring as hell."

"Or perhaps that they are just two teams that obviously have no offense and thusly sit around deep and pass the ball around. Looking for a sort of field to have everything and attempt to score."

"Or it was just boring as hell."

"Perhaps. But, really what is perception, and what is reality. Are we pawns in the game of life..."

"Omg just shut up about it."

[Sargossa]

Somewhere in Northern Santazuela, pre-matchday one...

It was a beautiful spot. An unknown spot, save for a few select residents of the nearby farming settlement of Edorta. The last dying rays of the setting sun glistened across the still waters of the lake while bird calls sounded a loud greeting to the gathering darkness. The reverie was shattered with a wet splash as a figure launched themself from an overhanging rock into the chilly water.

"Idiot, he's going to break his neck one of these days."

"Let him be, he's finally free. We all are."

There were six of them, students of the local school celebrating the end of their final day with a camping trip. Can't quite see the appeal myself but some folks seem to enjoy that kind of thing. And quite the sickening cross section of society they made too. There was the cheerleader, the sporty guy, the bookish girl, the slightly religious one, the bloke of dubious sexuality who secretly has a crush on the sporty guy and the chap with the dusky features that marked him out as being, in part at least, a yanqui foreigner. Half Pasargan in this case. Santazuelans, such an accepting people.

The ambience was spoilt slightly as a radio jumped into life and a popular sports talk show pumped itself into the night time air.

. . . and there's plenty of scope for settling scores too. In his twenty four matches in charge Erassi has only lost three and two of those opponents are among a very tough Group A lineup. Darmen will be full of confidence as hosts while Astograth have the potential to . . .

"Eww." The religious one, let's call her Eliza, cut in. "That's football, must we listen to that? It's always so sweary."

Grudgingly the slightly dusky member, let's call him, I don't know, Leon, of our revoltingly clean cut group changed stations to something more teen friendly and musical.

"Fine." He said. "Tonight it's yours but next time i'm getting my footy fix."

"When?"

"Tomorrow, when the Copa began."

Adriana, the bookish one, glanced over the top of her glasses. "Really? Wow. If you tortured that sentence anymore they'd have you before a war crimes tribunal."

"Oh real classy, pick on the visitor to your country."

"Visitor? You're about as foreign as I am."

This well practised exchange was interrupted by the music suddenly cutting out to be replaced by a breaking news bulletin.

. . . a Colonial Ministry spokesman in Soluca has confirmed the imminent deployment of a significant number of military personnel to Santazuela. This will be as part of planned large scale manoeuvres set to take place in the north of the province. Local citizens have been assured that there is no cause for alarm . . .

"Oh great, Sargossans. I wonder if they'll bring their kittens."

"I wouldn't worry about it." Adriana said, an upcoming degree course in International Relations at Ibarra University suggested that she was more versed in these things then her friends. Just a bit of sabre rattling to remind Jarque who's actually in charge. They'll make some noise for a week or two and then bugger off back up north. And nothing will change."

The evening turned into night while our brave campers splashed about in the lake, cooked over an open fire and chatted and joked under a ceiling of stars. Life was good for the young. Eliza lay back on her sleeping bag and watched the sky. Nearby snoring told her that her friends had finally let sleep set in. But she couldn't drop off, the stars were just too beautiful. She watched them for a long while before she noticed something odd. Some of them were moving. A lot of them were moving. Most moved slowly but surely while others tore across the sky. All heading in the same direction.

"Psst, Adriana, look at this. Adriana. Adriana! Are you awake?"

"Ugh, I am now. What is it?"

"Look at the stars."

She turned. She looked. She saw them.

"Those aren't stars."

And they weren't. They were the running lights of planes. Dozens, perhaps hundreds of planes. All in formation. Lazily making their way north, the actual stars blocked by their passing bulk. Adriana thought back to the earlier broadcast, a chill running through her.

"A significant number of military personnel. They weren't kidding."

[Aquillian]

((OOC: To the hosts, can my team's style modifier be set to +3, if it hasn't already been, please? Thanks.))

FADA late... as always.

It's a common joke to hear that one's father is going to be late, or is "running on AMT" -- or Aquillish Man's Time -- and in recent years, FADA have lived up to these stereotypes, too. The criticisms of FADA's refusal to allow female professionals were minor in comparison to their latest cock-up; sending the national team to Darmen almost too late to play in their opening game.

A FADA spokesman tells us that they had believed the tournament was starting next week, following a mix-up from an intern, and as a result, the team arrived in Darmen two nights ago, leaving little time to prepare for their opening game against Valladares last night. To their credit, The Islanders performed admirably, equalising twice before eventually falling -- to what many suspected was fatigue -- later in the game, losing 4-2.

National team manager Alfredo Herrera refused to be drawn on speculation, and has not commented yet on the debacle. His assistant, Sergio Galindo, told us "Fredo is not happy with FADA this time, but we do not want it to distract the players from the task at hand. We have a talented group of players and a decent chance of progressing from the group stage, so that is the focus." When pressed further for more information, Galindo mimicked Herrera's stonewalling and simply refused to speak to us.

The delays have also meant that La Selección Aquilliana has only just been released to the media -- we received a full squad list prior to last night's game -- and we have listed it below.

No. Pos.  Name                 Age     Club                     
#01 [GK]  Damian TEJADA        29 y/o  Otomi Rétaro
#02 [LWB] Grant HART           25 y/o  Academia Real de Deportes
#03 [RWB] Jose DIAZ            26 y/o  Parque Jalisco
#04 [CB]  Clendon TREMBLAY     32 y/o  Rahobi United
#05 [CB]  Nathan ROGERS        28 y/o  Real Seaga
#06 [CB]  Ramon RIVERA         29 y/o  Bahía Rojo
#07 [ST]  Nathan JACKSON       21 y/o  Academia Real de Deportes
#08 [CM]  Gael CAMACHO         26 y/o  Rahobi United
#09 [CF]  Tomas DOMINGUEZ      30 y/o  Bahía Rojo
#10 [AM]  Alejandro PALACIOS   24 y/o  Bahía Rojo
#11 [CM]  Jose SEDILLO         27 y/o  Estudiantes Pachuebla
#12 [LW]  Miguel RAEL          26 y/o  Estudiantes Pachuebla
#13 [AM]  Eusebio CHAVEZ       30 y/o  Rahobi United
#14 [RF]  Sebastian LLOYD      29 y/o  Bahía Rojo
#15 [CB]  Lemuel TREMBLAY      25 y/o  Rahobi United
#16 [DM]  Antonio MADERA       24 y/o  Genesia
#17 [CB]  Cesar VALENCIA       24 y/o  Genesia
#18 [RW]  Oscar MADERA         29 y/o  Real Seaga
#19 [RWB] Manuel QUESADA       29 y/o  Academia Real de Deportes
#20 [LW]  Lamar HART           24 y/o  Academia Real de Deportes
#21 [LWB] Raimundo ZAYAS       21 y/o  Real Seaga
#22 [GK]  Clemente BONILLA     27 y/o  Genesia
#23 [GK]  Eddie PETERSON       25 y/o  Real Seaga

Some fans have praised Herrera's refusal to select any Osarius-based players -- though they were quite fond of Pablo Sirici, who is unfortunately injured at the moment -- while others have pointed out that its a convenient way for him to avoid clashing with FADA over selecting female players. Others still have remarked on the reduced quality of the squad in the absence of the Osarius-based contingent. The politics of the squad selection aren't important, though, if The Islanders are successful in Darmen.

The team's new captain, Clendon Tremblay, attempted diplomacy when we spoke to him about the exclusion of some talented players based in Osarius, and noticeably avoided speaking about female players. "It's a shame that we don't have Pablo, because he's a great player for us, and a good leader. We're missing a lot of key players from last time actually, not just players who are based in Osarius... and I just hope I can live up to the expectations as captain." When pressed on the FADA administration errors, Tremblay evidently tried not to take sides. "I think these things happen from time to time. It's unfortunate that it happened now, but what can we do about it? We just have to go out there and do the best we can in the circumstances. Next game we'll do better, I'm sure."

The starting lineup against Valladares last night is expected to be Herrera's first eleven selection, and consisted of Tejada, C. Tremblay, Rogers, L. Tremblay, G. Hart, Sedillo, Diaz, Palacios, L. Hart, Dominguez, Lloyd in Herrera's usual 3-3-1-3 formation. The team went out with the same attacking intent as one would expect from their Futbol Aquilliano, but their defensive frailty reared its head yet again as they surrendered the lead twice early on. While they were able to strike back twice, their energy levels dropped significantly in the late second-half, sapped by their high-tempo style of play.

Next up for The Islanders is Jen O The Hill, a team who we don't have much data on, but they drew their opener with Djocoranga. We know Djocoranga are a strong side, so its likely that it will be a hard-fought game, and The Islanders will need a win to turn their fortunes around and gain some momentum for the remainder of the tournament.

[Darmen]

As Darmen took the field for the evening match at the Stadio Rushmore in Johnho, the players already knew that the FSSO and Ansernia Islands had taken away three points from the matches played earlier in the day. But despite having this knowledge, Darmen was not able to overcome Sargossa's tenacious offensive attack, and the final score read, 3-3. Darmen started the scoring in the 32nd minute, as Zach Preston moved past Javi Aguilar and Mariano Mansilla, who both made unsuccessful sliding tackle attempts, and pushed the ball past his Scott City FC team mate, José Antonio Leiva.

"I've scored on him numerous times in practise, but this was different," commented Preston in the post match interview. It's not the first time Preston has scored on Leiva. Preston scored the winning goal in the only other previous match between the two sides, a 2-1 victory for Darmen that took place during the last Copa. "I'm sure he'll probably give me a tougne lashing when we start camp soon, but hey, who's the one who scored?" said Preston, chuckling.

Sargossa answered fast and furious, as Lucas Andrada scored past Troy Osborne in the 34th minute. Alejandro Echeverría added a second goal for Sargossa in the 40th minute, as the 34,000 Darmeni fans present at the match began to fall silent. As the team entered the dressing room at half time, 10 faces walked past, all looking demoralized and upset. But their was one, the face of Tor Tong Lee, that still had a smile. "I had just gotten some Botox injected," said Lee, laughing, "nah, seriously, I was just hopefull that we'd be able to come back, and at least end things with an even score."

Lee's hope for a second half comeback seemed to take a bit of a hit as halftime substitute, Héctor Riera, who replaced Alejandro Martinuccio, scored Sargossa's third goal of the match, making the score 3-1 in the 57th minute. But Lee didn't seem to be phased at all, as he scored from a freekick just outside of the 18 yard box in the 68th minute, drawing Darmen to within a single goal. Manager Tim O'Donahaue seemed to be willing to take a risk in trying out the younger players on the team, as he made a triple change in the 76th minute. Osborne left net, to be replaced by Siesman, while Preston exchanged places with rising star, Gene Turko. The third and final change was between, an exhausted Dan Baker, who seems to be nearing the end of his international career, and Roberto Gregio.

"Baker and Preston are the two oldest players on the team," said O'Donahaue, "and I just felt that they would need some rest for the games to come. Turko and Gregio have both played before, and they've done quite well. I just thought that now would be the chance to give them some more experience, and against an excellent squad."

The move payed off, as the three fresh players injected some new energy into the Darmeni lineup. Siesman made two fantastic saves from shots by Lucas Andrada, who both times had gotten past a tired back line. "I probably should have made a change in the back," said O'Donahaue, reflecting on those scarry moments when Andrada looked poised to score. "In the end I didn't though, and Siesman stepped up his game at just the right time."

Turko and Gregio also made a large impact on the match, as they begin to work their way past the Sargossan defense, and make Leiva work. "You could tell that the Sargossan's were really starting to tire, and we knew that we needed to strike fast, before the final whistle blew and the match was finished," said Gregio, following the match. Darmen did strike, as Gregio connected with Bryan Faulkner on a cross in the 92nd minute. Faulkner's equaliser came only a minute before Saugeaisan referee Gaétan Parris blew the final whistle to end the match. "I was happy with the performance of our boys, expecialy Turko and Gregio. Lee, Preston, and Fualkner also had good days, but when don't they? And Siesman and Osborne both had good days in goal, but I'm really liking what that younster does out there," said O'Donahaue, referring to Siesman's performance.

O'Donahaue released the lineup for Darmen's match against West Zirconia moments after the match, unveiling a totally different looking team, not in formation, but in personel. "I'm giving the new players that we've just called up a chance to prove what they're worth, and we'll see how it goes."

-------------------Siesman----------------

----Goodwin------Sinapati------Rydzik-----

-Salapu--Ramirez---Zakuani--Son--Turko(c)-

---------Hooper------------Gregio---------

 Bench: Osborne, Abraham Gibbons, Chaves, 
Aaron Gibbons, Lee, Preston, Cormio

[Western cuba]

Havana Tribute

The #1 Newspaper in Western Cuba

Western Cuba off to Fine Start

Jorge Ramirez

It was quite a wonderful first game for the new national team. Offense for the last several seasons had been a major problem for Western Cuba, last night it looked like that problem was well out the window. The Western Cuban offense of Mendoza, Yevtushenko, and Moreno each combined for four goals in the game. Roberto Bennedetto, the Erathore goalkeeper, who returned from a recent injury struggled throughout the game. Several times Bennedetto made foolish decisions and was only saved by the likes of Wesley Hensen multiple times. If I was to give a player of the game award to an Erathore player it would be Hensen. Out of the four goals Western Cuba scored throughout the game none of them involved Hensen.

Erathore's defense besides Hensen weren't the only ones not to make ends meet throughout the game. Erathore's offense failed to compete with Western Cuba's offense and only scored one goal throughout the game. Hector Diaz of Western Cuba had an amazing goal in goal, letting in only one goal. And to be honest I think that was the defense's fault for that one. I'm just glad though that Hector Diaz is not letting his dispute with Winding Street, a Civil Citizenry club, not carry onto his field of play. It has been rumored that Diaz wishes to sign with Scott City FC, we all know though sadly that is highly unlikely. It would be pretty entertaining through to watch Diaz, Mendoza, and Vargas all be on Scott City FC. Hopefully though Hector Diaz will return to the WCSL and finish out his career with the team he originally started out with, Tumbes FC.

The real show yesterday was Edgardo Mendoza once again though, not only did thousands of fans of Western Cuba pack into Geese Stadium to watch Mendoza, Scott City fans did also. Hundreds of Scott City FC fans were spotted throughout the stadium wearing Mendoza uniforms, national and for Scott City FC. And Scott City FC fans must be really excited after last night's game. Mendoza made everyone in the stands except for Erathore fans go crazy with is two goal, two assist performance against Erathore. Western Cuba for the first time in it's history may have received it's first soccer superstar, not even Cayo Vargas in his prime had the hype that Mendoza has been received. Which is interesting to why Vargas was given a six-year contract compared to Mendoza's five. Well I guess their is the money, Mendoza was given way more cash, however though Vargas might not even stay past year three and retire. Who knows though, maybe Vargas has something in store though that we don't expect.

Today's Copa Rushmori game for Western Cuba is against, Abcdefghijklmnopqrstuk at Geese Stadium. Be sure to tune onto WCSN to watch tonight's game along with watching the National Baseball team play in their second matchday also. It's a full week of soccer and baseball ahead Western Cuba, enjoy it while it lasts!

[Falconfar]

Jacques Didier turned to the hero of the match for the Imperials, Jerôme Nasaic.

"Nice free kick, man. Without it, we'd have lost to Mapletish, and it'd have been a sad way to start a tournament after obtaining third place the edition before," the keeper stated.

"You didn't have a bad game yourself," replied Nasaic, "Nice hands. Don't really know what took us that long to start flowing on the attack, but glad to come away with a point."

"We'll have to do better if we want to advance," stated Harold Nehafsaim, who had four shots but no goals, "At least all the other matches in our groups were draws, too. It's like the first matchday never happened."

"Except that now, there is one less chance of a win," clarified Nasaic, "And we simply must step up our game in order to make it to the playoffs and beyond. We all know what is expected of us."

"What do you guys think of Falconfar and Falconear unifying?" inquired Nehafsaim.

"We aren't politicians, Harold," stated Sharon Tundai, who was instrumental in helping Didier, "But I think it's a good move. Nice to see the Queen so happy after she thought that her sister was dead."

"When is it happening again?" asked Didier, a bit embarrassed, "I haven't had time to catch up on the news lately..."

"In about three months or so," answered Tundai, "And after it we will be the Constitutional Republic of Unified Falcon, under the split leadership of the two sisters."

"How do you think they will do in sharing power?" asked Nehafsaim, a bit concerned, "We don't want a bloody civil war..."

"You haven't been following it either?" replied Tundai, a bit exasperated, "They are going to still run their two countries like they have been. It's just that they will field joint athletic teams in international competitions and be recognized as one entity with one army and whatnot. I don't know the intricacies, but I am sure it will work. The Queen and Falconear's President aren't idiots. They know what they are doing."

"At least at the Copa Rushmori, only Falconfarians will be there..." stated Didier, a faraway look in his eyes, "Although I won't really understand that."

"The Copa Rushmori is for only Rushmori nations, hence Falconear wouldn't qualify. Although I wouldn't mind playing with that one guy from Falconear, Laheem Barat. He plays for CPD Dinas Parheft and he is a beast," stated Tundai.

"Maybe one day, Sharon, one day," answered Didier, "It would be strange, though... But it's the bureaucrats that make all the changes, with us, the citizens, living by them. So is life."

"All right!" shouted Barr, the Manager, "Interesting discussion, guys, but we have to focus on the matter at hand here - and that is winning! All to the film room to see where we broke down against Mapletish as well as Antoletia's tactics!"

The team filed away, but the discussion that they had had was fresh in their minds.

Falconfar and Falconear would unify soon. And that would bring a new scale of changes to their lives......

[Falconwhereveryouare]

The Eagle's Eye
Falconwhereveryouare's #1 newspaper!
SPORTS
Attack of the Clones

By Otis Birmingham

The clones did it! Our geneticists must have put a few more athletic genes in them or whatever, the Cloned Falcons completely walloped the Kytlerians! Mylo Marreres at 14'16'' and 34'22'', Derry Pempsy at 19'55'' and 74'01'', Tart Arrel at 55'31'', and Leo McClain at 46'32''. Meanwhile the Kytlers managed to sneak just one goal past Dimalvir, who made a handbasket of great saves. Admittedly there were some flaws, as the defenders didn't do nearly as well as the strikers, and it was mostly because of Dimalvir's acrobatics in the net that the game wasn't closer. At 6-1, it probably wouldn't very close, but two goals can be the difference between a solid loss and a blowout.

Next up the Cloned Falcons will be visiting Virabia, who is coming off a somewhat surprising opening-day win over a strong Cassadaigua team. Perhaps the Dagans are just having trouble adjusting to the new region? Ah, well. We don't have to worry about that right now. Head out with the team if you can- we need to support our boys in blue, even if they're clones!

[Darmen]

RP Cutoff for MD2! Are you excited?

[Darmen]

Ninth Copa Rushmori - Matchday Two

Group A
West Zirconia 2–2 Darmen
Astograth 2–2 Sargossa
FSSO 2–1 Ansernia Islands

  Group A                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 FSSO                     2   2  0  0    3   1  +2    6
2 Ansernia Islands         2   1  0  1    5   4  +1    3
3 Darmen                   2   0  2  0    5   5   0    2
  Sargossa                 2   0  2  0    5   5   0    2
5 West Zirconia            2   0  1  1    2   3  −1    1
6 Astograth                2   0  1  1    4   6  −2    1

Group B
Djocoranga 0–1 Pasarga
Valladares 3–0 Krytenia
Jen O the Hill 0–2 Aquillian

  Group B                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Valladares               2   2  0  0    7   2  +5    6
2 Pasarga                  2   1  1  0    2   1  +1    4
3 Aquillian                2   1  0  1    4   4   0    3
4 Djocoranga               2   0  1  1    2   3  −1    1
5 Jen O the Hill           2   0  1  1    2   4  −2    1
6 Krytenia                 2   0  1  1    1   4  −3    1

Group C
Civil Citizenry 2–0 Queer Poco el Mono Ara
Erathore 3–1 Carmadin
Abcdefghijklmnopqrstuk 1–1 Western Cuba

  Group C                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Western Cuba             2   1  1  0    5   2  +3    4
2 Abcdefghijklmnopqrstuk   2   1  1  0    2   1  +1    4
3 Civil Citizenry          2   1  0  1    2   1  +1    3
4 Erathore                 2   1  0  1    4   5  −1    3
5 Carmadin                 2   0  1  1    1   3  −2    1
6 Queer Poco el Mono Ara   2   0  1  1    0   2  −2    1

Group D
Mangolana 0–2 Mapletish
Antoletia 1–4 Falconfar
Polar Islandstates 0–1 Princess Beatrice Isle

  Group D                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Falconfar                2   1  1  0    5   2  +3    4
2 Mapletish                2   1  1  0    3   1  +2    4
3 Princess Beatrice Isle   2   1  1  0    1   0  +1    4
4 Polar Islandstates       2   0  1  1    2   3  −1    1
5 Mangolana                2   0  1  1    2   4  −2    1
6 Antoletia                2   0  1  1    1   4  −3    1

Group E
Ancharmunn 2–2 Baltskandio
Filopines 1–3 Swartaz
Weatherdon 3–4 Von Kopsho

  Group E                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Swartaz                  2   2  0  0    4   1  +3    6
2 Von Kopsho               2   2  0  0    6   4  +2    6
3 Weatherdon               2   1  0  1    4   4   0    3
4 Ancharmunn               2   0  1  1    2   3  −1    1
  Baltskandio              2   0  1  1    2   3  −1    1
6 Filopines                2   0  0  2    2   5  −3    0

Group F
Virabia 0–3 Falconwhereveryouare
Harjeland 2–2 The Kytler Peninsulae
Cassadaigua 0–2 Saugeais

  Group F                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Falconwhereveryouare     2   2  0  0    9   1  +8    6
2 Saugeais                 2   2  0  0    3   0  +3    6
3 Virabia                  2   1  0  1    2   4  −2    3
4 Harjeland                2   0  1  1    2   3  −1    1
5 The Kytler Peninsulae    2   0  1  1    3   8  −5    1
6 Cassadaigua              2   0  0  2    1   4  −3    0

[Mapletish]

2-0 against Mangolana,Sweet Revenge from World Cup 58

The win against Mangolana today has not only ease the pressure on Mapletish but also a sweet revenge for Mapletish after Mangolana knocked Mapletish out cold off the World Cup-Playoff spot two world cups ago.Although it was a devastating moment for the team then,tonight's victory has its advantages too.With a victory needed to mount pressure on group favourites Mangolana and Polar Islandstates early in the Copa Rushmori campaign,the Mangolana's victory has done Falconfar a favour,if not for the victory against Mangolana,they would not have top the group now,as it would be Mangolana on the spotlight.

Enough talk about the table movements,since it's only 2 matches what's there to compare about?There are more exciting matches out there that can take the fans out of their seats.The victory against Mangolana was magical (obviously).Captain Yorkshire continued his wonderful form,thinking about a goal now?The answer , YEEEEEEEEEEEEEES , Err NO ! He provided 2 wonderful assists from outside of the penalty box twice and guess what?Our Vice-Captain gorgeous Diego got it onto his right foot twice and strike it with a nice banana kick twice too.What brought this wonderful performance together?

It all began from a dull first-half match against in terms of goals,but Mapletish enjoyed a lion-share of procession against a giant again.Wonder how they do it?The Patterson way of course,after the suspension of Sir Billy for two matches which will last due to the next match and he shall be officially be back on Matchday 4,after the tournament organisers decided to give him a one day grace period.The success of Patterson's playing tactics can be proved from his Baptism Of Fire 44,third place finish.A 75% of the procession for tonight's match has shown how Patterson likes to play it safe,although not going to play it safe by playing as bad as Montory,as they passed all around their own half,that's way to conservative.
The second half began as Mangolana started the ball,the nervous look on their faces has definitely gave Mapletish the advantage as they surround the player with the ball and took the ball away from him as they start a counter-attacking move.Their hardwork paid off as Yorkshire got the ball from the middle nutmegged 3 oncoming players and to avoid a sliding defender he ran to the right side of the penalty box and his cross was met by Diego's oncoming right foot as he attempted a volley but the ball seemed too high for him and he jumped and did a banana kick instead.It was a spectacular goal indeed.The second goal went exactly the same fashion which led to a jump of joy from Patterson as he led Mapletish to their first victory of their Copa Rushmori XI campaign.

---

Let's take a look at the other results and the table !

Group D
Mangolana 0–2 Mapletish
Antoletia 1–4 Falconfar
Polar Islandstates 0–1 Princess Beatrice Isle

Group D                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Falconfar                2   1  1  0    5   2  +3    4
2 Mapletish                2   1  1  0    3   1  +2    4
3 Princess Beatrice Isle   2   1  1  0    1   0  +1    4
4 Polar Islandstates       2   0  1  1    2   3  −1    1
5 Mangolana                2   0  1  1    2   4  −2    1
6 Antoletia                2   0  1  1    1   4  −3    1

* Time for a barbecue,err maybe not . We are hanging there in the second position,with favourites to advance the group Polar Islandstates and Mangolana swagging their time in the 4th and 5th place respectively.A table with lots of errors indeed,an all draw group last night and a table with twists tonight,how about tomorrow night ? A table with fractured bones,or a complete makeover?Tune in to find out .

[Western cuba]

Havana Tribute

The #1 Newspaper in Western Cuba

One Point is Good Enough for Me

Jorge Ramirez

"One point is good enough for me", commented Anatoly Markin after last night's game. And after the nail-bitter that happened yesterday, Markin is right. Abc, as I will call the other team, dominated on all aspects in the game yesterday. Their defense was superior, as well as their passing, possession, and offense. Miguel Atterbarry was a pain all night, as he fired shot after shot towards Hector Diaz. It seemed only that Diaz's amazing play, along with some luck limited Atterbarry to one goal in the 33th minute.

The Western Cuba offense was crazy silent throughout the first half of yesterday's game along with most of the second. Mendoza die-hards seemed grieve-stricken when Mendoza only had one shot throughout the first half. This shot by Mendoza was actually the only shot by Western Cuba in the first half.

"Our offense last night was kind of embarrassing, and much of that is due to me not carrying out executions throughout the first half. I'm not happy I managed to capitalize in the final moments of the game", comments a relieved Mendoza after the game.

And it took Western Cuba to the last few minutes of the game to equalize. In the 88th minute, defender Keith Green took his eye of Mendoza for a few moments. Mendoza was near the back end of the goalpost, so when Goyo Soto's shot deflected off the cross bar Mendoza was able to hit it back towards the goal unopposed for the equalizer.

"I was not at the right moment at the right time", also added Mendoza. "Without the rest of the team that goal would of never happened, and that goes the same for every goal I so. Without teammates, I am nothing"

Now Western Cuba is heading towards match-day three tonight, where they will play against Carmadin. Who has played mediocre throughout the Copa so far, tying a struggling Queer Poco el Mona Ara team, and losing 3-1 against Erathore. Who Western Cuba beat 4-1.

"Our chances are good tomorrow", comments Gabriel Ruiz. "That goes for everyday though, like always we need to play smart. Every soccer game is critical, even friendlies"

Western Cuba plays tonight at Geese Stadium in Tycos. Be sure to watch the game on WCSN. Be sure to stay on WCSN after the game though, as the guys from Soccer Tonight will get an inside look at the players during practice.

[Saugeais]

Knights grind out a victory over Cassadaigua

Second-half goals from Dan Nagato and Dietmar Öztürk helped Saugeais continue their run in Group F with a 2-0 win over Cassadaigua in Romanopolis. Iarlaith Mag Aonghusa’s side were made to work hard for the three points by their spirited opponents, whose slick passing and pace ensured a busy evening for the Saugeain back four in this Copa Rushmori matchup. There was very little to separate both sides in the opening half. After a tight start to the game, the first real chance came in the 11th minute for Saugeais when Kuzman Ruslan supplied Öztürk inside the box, but his powerful right-footed shot was straight at the Dagan keeper.

Cassadaigua's best attacks were coming down the Saugeais right side, but Öztürk and John Barker proved to be worthy opponents to limit them to half-chances. Saugeais went close again following a neat interchange between David Schultz-Eklund and Ruslan. Nagato was the grateful recipient of the chance, but he scuffed his effort and it was easy for the goalkeeper.

Arguably the chance of the half fell to the Dagans in the 35th minute. Under pressure from Barker, a Dagan forward fired in a shot from a tight angle which Jacques Martin did well to turn around the post. A few minutes later, another Dagan forward fired a dangerous ball into the box, but none of the opposing players could provide a finishing touch. As so often happened during the half, play switched immediately to the other end and, in almost a carbon copy of the Dagans' earlier chance, Kurt Helton's ball was inches away from connecting with the stretching Ruslan.

The opening minutes of the second half set the tone for what followed in the second 45 minutes. Ruslan was close to opening the scoring, again just failing to connect with a pass, but vocal Saugeains in the crowd did not have long to wait to celebrate. In the 54th minute, Steve Park dribbled down the left and found Ruslan, who cut inside and crossed with his right foot. Nagato soared and connected with a header, givin Saugeais the lead. Cassadaigua almost had the perfect response five minutes later when their shot from distance had the Martin beaten, but it clipped the top of the crossbar. As the half wore on, the physical intensity of the game appeared to be taking its toll on the Dagans and in the 76th minute Saugeais doubled their advantage when Öztürk’s low shot crept just inside the post and beyond the keeper's outstretched arm.

Although Saugeais had a goal disallowed for a foul on the goalkeeper late on, chances were at a premium in the closing stages, but Cassadaigua almost grabbed a consolation goal when a header was powered wide from a corner kick.

Saugeais will take on Virabia next, who are coming off a surprising 3-0 loss to Falconwhereveryouare, newcomers to the Copa who are sitting atop the table on goal difference over the Knights. Virabia are looking to bounce back and keep their hopes alive in this tournament, while Saugeais are looking to continue their good run of form.

[Abcdefghijklmnopqrstuk]

"Nyer nyer. Nyer nyer nyer. Nyer." Strange voices resounded from the corridor. John Church, ABK National Team forward, got up. He crept towards the door without waking up Al Grieger, his roomate. Not that he really cared if he woke up Grieger. Al was in his way of a starting spot, something everyone knows Church should have. "John doesn't like the situation on the team," had been the real firestarter. Maybe referring to himself in the third-person wasn't such a great idea. It was a bit of a black eye. But his goals were definitely a feather in his cap in the eyes of the team. He just needed to score more goals. Sneaking outside, Church opened up the door a crack. Peering out, he saw two men standing in the hallway. He snuck closer. "If he was just out of the way, we could really do well," said one man. "Well, I can do that for you. It'll cost a lot though," replied the other. "How much are we talking?" "50 grand at least." John recognized the first man. It was Coach Jordan. He stood up to wave, but something pulled him down. "Fine." Jordan glanced around warily, as if to make sure no one was there. "How much will the lead cost?" Church's breath quickened. From growing up in the projects in Swift, he knew what lead was. Guns. "John, you may have uncovered something really big here," he thought to himself. He snuck back into his room. "It's time to play some detective work around here," he thought. "If I uncovered this, that would be a real feather in my cap. I bet that would earn me a starting job."

With that thought, the all-forgiving sun rose into the sky. Church said a quick prayer. "Em ssleb stirips eht yad wen. Nus gnisir." The prayer was in his father's language, called Darotiet. The only time he spoke in Darotiet was when he prayed and when he cursed. Church's heart soared as he stepped out of his room. "This will be the day you finally get your chance," he thought. "I will finally reap the benefits of my skills." As a duckling hops towards its white mother's soft arms, feared lost in the cold of a rainy storm, so now Church walked outside into the warm air. He unlocked his red Davidson Germano, the car he had paid to be shipped over into Darmen. The hassle with customs officials had definitely not been a feather in his cap, he decided. Reflecting on it, he decided he might want to give the car to Coach Lakan later. That would definitely be a feather in his cap. Everyone knew Lakan had a soft spot for Abdian engineering. He slotted the key into its hole and started the engine. As a lion roars at a new interloper, uninvited and unwelcomed, in the hot savannah sun, so the Germano roared to life and pulled away from the curb. "Screech." The car jolted forward and spun as a Darmeni driver plowed its trunk. Church was thrown forward, almost hitting his head on the windshield, before he fell back into the soft leather seats. He quickly opened the door and got out. "What's the big idea, you ekac yranidro?" The Darotiet slipped off his pink tongue. He walked briskly over to the driver-side window, where a woman was beginning to get out. Church opened his mouth to swear at her again when he stopped, dumbstruck. The women started, "I'm so sorry, I didn't see you pulling out." She was young, maybe twenty-five, and very beautiful. Her brown hair sparkled in the sun and her long lashes flowed around her deep green eyes. "Oh, it's fine." Church stammered. Through his years of partying he had never seen a girl this beautiful. "That's a very nice car you have there," said the girl. "Oh yes, it's a Germano." Church watched the girl's jaw drop in awe when he quickly remembered that Germano's were very expensive and not everyone had one. Sometimes, he forgot. "Say, would you want to get lunch or something?" he said, forgetting all about his detective quest. "Sure," she replied, still in awe. They talked away as the bright sun rose higher in the daytime sky.

[Falconfar]

Breaking Down the Goals
By: Ivaneira Lemanz, Imperial Tribune

Welcome to Breaking Down the Goals. I am Ivaneira Lemanz, and I will be breaking down all the goals scored by the Imperials in the Copa Rushmori.

First, there was the equalizer against Mapletish scored by Jerôme Nasaic. That goal was just a beautiful curving free kick that beat the keeper to the corner of the net. An important one, too, as it gave the Imperials a point while robbing Mapletish of two.

Then, we go to the game against Antoletia, a victory, 4-1. Harold Nehafsaim was the hero of the match, scoring two of the goals in dominating fashion. Nasaic added one, and the last goal was scored by Loria Votmk, the Xe'Notl turtle that is still around.

Nehafsaim's first goal was a beauty. He received a cross from Myiavic, ran by Alexandre, and delivered the ball to the left post that left Cornelius out of position. 1-0 Imperials. After Constantin smacked the ball past Didier to tie the game, it was Nasaic's turn. Jerôme received the ball from Lewis, and, from twenty meters out, noticed a gap in the Fire Ants' defense. The resulting shot glanced off of Cornelius's hand to give the Imperials the lead.

Nehafsaim added a header off of a Nasaic corner in the second half, and then Loria Votmk struck on a breakaway with her left foot. It was a game that the Imperials dominated, a game that they needed. With only two more games to go, and the group fairly tight with Mapletish, Princess Beatrice Isle, and Falconfar all sharing the lead, every game will matter, and scoring will become more and more important.

Hopefully, there will be more goals to break down.

Until next time... This is Ivaneira Lemanz.

[Falconwhereveryouare]

The Eagle's Eye
Falconwhereveryouare's #1 newspaper!
SPORTS
Virabia buzzes off

By Otis Birmingham

More good news from the Copa Rushmori! In another route, the Cloned Falcons have set down Virabia 3-0. Derry Pempsey and Mylo Marreres both assisted each other for goals at 23'36'' and 32'15'', respectively. Jart Arrel would tack on a third goal just after halftime to cement the victory, but the big story was the defenders really pulling it together. They kept the Virabian forwards off-balance and confused extremely well, forcing bad shots and squicking the ball right out from underneath them. Dimalvir made a few good saves, but there weren't that many shots to begin with.

Next time we'll be facing off with a so-far mediocre Harjeland team; they managed a draw against the Kytlerians, but we beat the Kytlerians 6-1, so I have high hopes for our Cloned Falcons.

[Polar Islandstates]

~YOU ARE THE MANAGER - COPA RUSHMORI IX EDITION~
~"DEFEND YOUR TITLE"~

*START*

*LEVEL TWO: PRINCESS BEATRICE ISLE*

You are at MUFFIN PARK, in SCOTT CITY. There is a slight chill in the air, and you are facing PRINCESS BEATRICE ISLE.

#@#@#@# PRINCESS BEATRICE ISLE HAS ACTIVATED THE STEALTH SECRET! #@#@#@#

The PRINCESS BEATRICE ISLE teamsheet and player attributes are now hidden from view.

UNKNOWN11 is running down the wing towards your defence. He overruns the ball and allows ZACHARIAS JUUL a chance to intercept.

*What do you do*
Launch a counter-attack with a long ball
Kick it into the stands
Take on UNKNOWN11 and attempt to humiliate him
Track UNKNOWN11 and hope he runs it out for a goal kick

>> Kick it into the stands

ZACHARIAS JUUL intercepts the ball from UNKNOWN11 and kicks it into the stands. PRINCESS BEATRICE ISLE flood numbers into the box as they have a long throw specialist on the side.

You chose incorrectly. The correct choice would have been Launch a counter-attack with a long ball.

UNKNOWN8 shapes up to take the long throw. There are plenty of PRINCESS BEATRICE ISLE attackers in the box. All are being man-marked by defenders on your team, leaving JON KJAER without a job to do in the box.

*What do you do*
Watch for the short throw
Stand at the front of the box as a block
Stand on the near post
Stand on the far post
Take up a counter-attack position

>> Take up a counter-attack position

JON KJAER takes up an advanced position and waits for the clearance. UNKNOWN8 takes the throw in long, flat, and quick, and UNKNOWN9 beats JORGEN-FRANZ BRU in the air, and heads it towards goal. UNKNOWN7 has been blocking LARS HEGG GAMMEL's view of the action, and the ball goes in at the near post.

0-1

You chose incorrectly. The correct choice would have been Stand on the near post.

Full of confidence, PRINCESS BEATRICE ISLE launch another attack. UNKNOWN10 has the ball and is looking for the run of UNKNOWN9, club captain JORGEN HAUGE is nearby.

*What do you do*
Make a late, crunching tackle, running the risk of a yellow card
Shout of your teammates
Track his run back, hoping for support

>> The tackle! The tackle!

JORGEN HAUGE runs and clatters into UNKNOWN10, who panics and doesn't get as far as making the pass. It is a messy tackle, an JORGEN HAUGE is awarded a YELLOW CARD. But the TWITCHERS and your teammates react to the heroics and steel displayed by JORGEN HAUGE and appear to look more determined.

#@#@#@# TEAM SPIRIT LEVEL UP! #@#@#@#

You chose correctly.


HALF-TIME
CHECKPOINT
AUTOSAVE


You make a substitution to change the shape of the team.

*Which substitution do you make*
ELLIS ELMSVIKUR for AMADEUS IRNDTOR
DIEDRICH KVITCHENKO for JORGEN-FRANZ BRU
DIMA PETERSEN for ZACHARIAS JUUL
NIKO LEPKA for JORGEN-FRANZ BRU

>> Aren't these just the same choices as last level?

I'm sorry, I didn't understand that. For a list of valid commands, type HELP.

>> No seriously these are just the same. I hate it when lazy programmers just re-use content.

I'm sorry, I didn't understand that. For a list of valid commands, type HELP.

>> Fine, fine. Diedrich Kvitchenko for Jorgen-Franz Bru.

DIEDRICH KVITCHENKO comes on for JORGEN-FRANZ BRU. As a result, ALEXSANDR VAN SORENSEN takes up a much deeper role, and finds himself receiving a pass from JORGEN HAUGE. He attempts the long ball to AMADEUS IRNDTOR, who turns and then immediately pulls up with a hamstring injury. AMADEUS IRNDTOR is now LOCKED for the next two matches.

You chose incorrectly. The correct choice would have been ELLIS ELMSVIKUR for AMADEUS IRNDTOR.

>> well wtf how was I supposed to know that would happen!?

I'm sorry, you are unable to provide input at this time. For a list of valid commands, type HELP.

>> sod off

I'm sorry, you are unable to provide input at this time. For a list of valid commands, type HELP.

ELLIS ELMSVIKUR comes on, and the attacking lineup and team spirit bonus level means you peg PRINCESS BEATRICE ISLE in the own half for the rest of the half. A string of corners for Polar Islandstates have come to nothing and now DIEDRICH KVITCHENKO is fouled on the edge of the box. ALEXSANDR VAN SORENSEN lines up the shot, and UNKNOWN1 directs his wall.

*Which player do you attempt to curl the ball over*
UNKNOWN4
UNKNOWN17
UNKNOWN6
UNKNOWN5
UNKNOWN3

>> wtf

I'm sorry, I didn't understand that. For a list of valid commands, type HELP.

>> how am I supposed to know how tall they are? you've hidden their attributes form me!

I'm sorry, I didn't understand that. For a list of valid commands, type HELP.

>> this is bullshit

I'm sorry, I didn't understand that. For a list of valid commands, type HELP.

>> UNKNOWN4

ALEXSANDR VAN SORENSEN takes the free kick, attempting to curl it over UNKNOWN4's head. However, UNKNOWN4 is the tallest member of the PRINCESS BEATRICE ISLE squad, and the ball rockets out for a throw-in. There is no time to take it, and the referee blows for full time.

0-1

You chose incorrectly. The correct choice would have been UNKNOWN5.


FULL-TIME
CHECKPOINT
AUTOSAVE

NEXT LEVEL?

[Darmen]

And now, I will cut off your heads, err, maybe just your RP's. Anyways, scores in a jiffy.

[Darmen]

Ninth Copa Rushmori - Matchday Three

Group A
Ansernia Islands 1–3 West Zirconia
Sargossa 3–3 FSSO
Darmen 3–3 Astograth

  Group A                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 FSSO                     3   2  1  0    6   4  +2    7
2 West Zirconia            3   1  1  1    5   4  +1    4
3 Darmen                   3   0  3  0    8   8   0    3
  Sargossa                 3   0  3  0    8   8   0    3
5 Ansernia Islands         3   1  0  2    6   7  −1    3
6 Astograth                3   0  2  1    7   9  −2    2

Group B
Aquillian 4–1 Djocoranga
Krytenia 2–1 Jen O the Hill
Pasarga 4–0 Valladares

  Group B                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Pasarga                  3   2  1  0    6   1  +5    7
2 Aquillian                3   2  0  1    8   5  +3    6
3 Valladares               3   2  0  1    7   6  +1    6
4 Krytenia                 3   1  1  1    3   5  −2    4
5 Jen O the Hill           3   0  1  2    3   6  −3    1
6 Djocoranga               3   0  1  2    3   7  −4    1

Group C
Western Cuba 5–2 Civil Citizenry
Carmadin 1–2 Abcdefghijklmnopqrstuk
Queer Poco el Mono Ara 0–1 Erathore

  Group C                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Western Cuba             3   2  1  0   10   4  +6    7
2 Abcdefghijklmnopqrstuk   3   2  1  0    4   2  +2    7
3 Erathore                 3   2  0  1    5   5   0    6
4 Civil Citizenry          3   1  0  2    4   6  −2    3
5 Carmadin                 3   0  1  2    2   5  −3    1
6 Queer Poco el Mono Ara   3   0  1  2    0   3  −3    1

Group D
Princess Beatrice Isle 2–4 Mangolana
Falconfar 1–0 Polar Islandstates
Mapletish 2–1 Antoletia

  Group D                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Falconfar                3   2  1  0    6   2  +4    7
2 Mapletish                3   2  1  0    5   2  +3    7
3 Mangolana                3   1  1  1    6   6   0    4
4 Princess Beatrice Isle   3   1  1  1    3   4  −1    4
5 Polar Islandstates       3   0  1  2    2   4  −2    1
6 Antoletia                3   0  1  2    2   6  −4    1

Group E
Von Kopsho 0–1 Ancharmunn
Swartaz 0–3 Weatherdon
Baltskandio 0–0 Filopines

  Group E                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Weatherdon               3   2  0  1    7   4  +3    6
2 Von Kopsho               3   2  0  1    6   5  +1    6
3 Swartaz                  3   2  0  1    4   4   0    6
4 Ancharmunn               3   1  1  1    3   3   0    4
5 Baltskandio              3   0  2  1    2   3  −1    2
6 Filopines                3   0  1  2    2   5  −3    1

Group F
Saugeais 4–1 Virabia
The Kytler Peninsulae 4–1 Cassadaigua
Falconwhereveryouare 0–3 Harjeland

  Group F                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Saugeais                 3   3  0  0    7   1  +6    9
2 Falconwhereveryouare     3   2  0  1    9   4  +5    6
3 Harjeland                3   1  1  1    5   3  +2    4
4 The Kytler Peninsulae    3   1  1  1    7   9  −2    4
5 Virabia                  3   1  0  2    3   8  −5    3
6 Cassadaigua              3   0  0  3    2   8  −6    0

[Mapletish]

Mapletish Continues Winning Ways,A 2-1 narrow victory against Antoletia...

Tonight,favourites Polar Islandstates continue lay somewhere down the 5th spot in Group D,they have been very inconsistent since their draw against Mangolana,who would believe that the team that will advance without difficulty into the knockout rounds be struggling after 3 matches with only a point.Falconfar have been very consistency on the other hand as they beat Polar Islandstates to do Mangolana a favour as they beat Princess Beatrice Isle 4-2.With Falconfar leading the group on goal difference,of just a goal away from the Firey Dragons or the Mapletish Lions as you call it.The Lions/Dragons next task would be to defeat Polar Islandstates and this would seal the defending champions chances from advancing into the knockout rounds with only 2 more matches to play,and a possibility of 6 more points,The PIS might have a chance,but the word inconsistency will be used to described how the PIS are performing,a champion for once at Astograth,and the impossibility of not going into the knockout rounds at the next.

Mapletish will have to beat the PIS to continue their streak to play for the knockout stages.Patterson has an easy task now which is to keep the goals coming in.However will Mapletish be able to beat the PIS? It really seemed unlikely but anything is possbile with the word inconsistency on the minds of the players.Mapletish will have to do without Ugo for the next few matches as expected as he is destined to sit on the bench for the next few matches due to his hamstring injury,Sir Billy will return for the knockout rounds,and will be glad to see that Mapletish is performing well under the over-dramatic Patterson.With two more matches to go and with the PIS match up tomorrow night,there's a lot to be seen as Mapletish main target is to keep the goals coming in.


Group D
[i]Princess Beatrice Isle 2–4 Mangolana
Falconfar 1–0 Polar Islandstates
Mapletish 2–1 Antoletia

Group D                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Falconfar                3   2  1  0    6   2  +4    7
2 Mapletish                3   2  1  0    5   2  +3    7
3 Mangolana                3   1  1  1    6   6   0    4
4 Princess Beatrice Isle   3   1  1  1    3   4  −1    4
5 Polar Islandstates       3   0  1  2    2   4  −2    1
6 Antoletia                3   0  1  2    2   6  −4    1

It is time for a barbecue yet ? The answer is no not until we win our next two matches and advance into the knockout rounds .