Aurora managed to balance their attack again with five different goal scorers (including the usual suspects of Cat Rapp, Mariah Nguyen, Hannah Adler, Maya Hansen, and Tiana Harris). These highlights do an excellent job of showcasing Abby Ostrem and Cat Rapp providing passes so dangerous they come with a surgeon general’s warning.
Lyn Football 2 – 0 Rosenborg (F)
Rosenborg took a third defeat this season, a sign that the Toppserien is much more equal than it has been in the past. Though it was a bit surprising that the loss came to Lynn who is currently just above the relegation zone, a rare occurrence as the TrollKvinner tend to drop points to others competing for the title instead. Perhaps this is a sign that the Toppserien has becomemore competitive, and a more competitive league means more fun for everyone
Deportiva Cuenca 3 – 2 Emelec
Los Bombillos wrapped up their spring season with another defeat. They got two goals back from their early goal by Cuenca, but despite Alejandro Cabeza’s best work, Deportiva came back again and Emelec settled into 13th place.
Arna Bjornar 0 – 5 Rosenborg (F–Cup)
Lyn may just have woken up the sleeping giants in Trondheim. Pouring 5 past the weakened Arna-Bjornar side gave them a much needed boost heading into the quarterfinals. The surprising star of the show: Defender Sara Horte, who notched a defender’s hattrick just a few days after being named to Norway’s World Cup team.
After thumping Racine by ten the last time out, the Aurora might have taken their foot off the gas by falling behind early and only scoring two in the first half. And then came six in a row in the second half. Hannah Adler and Kenzie Langdock each got a brace and the team saw Addison Weichers and Arianna Del Moral get goals off the bench.
News & Notes
Weekly Alex Highlights
It seems that big A has discovered a taste for scoring goals (3 of them). It helps when your team wins the game and you finally get a reason to gloat.
I made a lot of fatherly comments about “if you’re happy with how you played then you can always win,” and “I’m just proud that you played well with your teammates and supported them”. Which led to Alex groaning, “ugggh…fine dad, whatever.” (If only there was professional sassing, you’d be a prodigy.)
International Update
Teams are still warming up for the North American Gold Cup, and while he didn’t get on the field in Nations League finals for Canada, Dayne St. Clair will be at the ready for the second tournament.
Obviously, this comes from IMAGO (but it shows Adamu and Gregoritsch so I’m happy to provide a plug)
Fellow goalkeeper Mark Flekken also stayed on the bench for Holland and so did Mathias Ginter for Germany. Michael Gregoritsch and Phillip Lienhart did well in Austria’s Euro Championship qualifiers, getting a draw against Belgium and a win over with Sweden (they may also have made the final pitch to new Freiburg signee/Gregoritsch’s Austrian strike partner Junior Adamu). Roland Sallai wasn’t able to catch fire against Montenegro but did find the net to seal the win against Lithuana.
Beyond the west, Ritsu Doan got a goal in Japan’s drubbing of El Salvador, and Blongokhule Hlongwane put in a solid 15 minutes in South Africa’s win against Morocco, and Michael Boxall…well…
Standing with Boxy
The worst news that came out of this week of international soccer came from our favorite Minnesotan-Kiwi, Michael Boxall.
In the first half of a match against Qatar (yes, the same Qatar I snarked about all last December), Boxall reported being called a racial slur. When referees did nothing about it, the New Zealand team left the field and abandoned the match.
Qatar officials spent a couple days pretending that nothing happened, then claiming that it was just between two players, then claiming that the player in question (Yusuf Abdurisag) was actually the target of a slur from Boxall. Obviously, I’m not in a place to judge something that happened thousands of miles away, but given that New Zealand walked out when they were winning and that Boxall has never been accused of similar actions in six years within one of the most diverse leagues in the world…I have my doubts.
— Séamas Uinseann Mac Aoḋagáin (@MacAodhagainJ) June 20, 2023
It doesn’t mean much, but we also stand with Boxy.
Player of the Week
As we look to honor often over looked talents, it’s worth saying that Boxy has helped lead the third best defense in MLS’ western conference (which would be even better if it didn’t have the 13th offense in the conference). But setting aside the field, Michael Boxall is imminently worthy of being saluted particularly because, in leading a protest, Michael Boxall did so much more than play a soccer game. He showed the kind of character I hope you boys do too.
Standing
Emelec will get a much needed break after their Copa Sudamericana tie this week and then it’ll be a summer of Minnesota and Rosenborg! (And a summer where Punjab keeps looking over their shoulders)
Team
W
D
L
PPG
GFA
GAA
Punjab–b
12
2
3
2.24
2.29
0.94
Minnesota
16
5
7
1.89
2.39
1.14
Rosenborg
15
6
10
1.65
1.74
0.90
Legon Cities–b
9
7
8
1.42
1.25
1.29
Grenoble–b
15
6
17
1.34
1.16
1.13
Emelec
5
8
7
1.15
1.20
1.20
Freiburg–b
12
7
19
1.13
1.24
1.66
Alebrijes–b
5
5
8
1.11
1.33
1.39
Ross County–b
6
4
12
1.00
1.23
1.50
Vozdovac–b
4
3
11
0.83
0.67
1.65
Montana–b
0
0
0
—
—
—
Table Updated 6/22/23 b–Team is between seasons
What’s Next
Thursday, June 22nd
Friday, June 23rd
Saturday, June 24th
Rosenborg BK v. Asane (F)
Real Salt Lake v. Minnesota United (M)
Bavarian United v. Minnesota Aurora (F)
Sunday, June 25th
Rosenborg v. Sarpsborg 08 (M)
Monday, June 26th
Tuesday, June 27th
Wednesday, June 28th
Emelec v. Danubio (M-Copa Sudamericana)
Plus tracking results for Gold Cup matches and the impending Women’s World Cup.
It seems that Rosenborg’s ladies have found their full stride, four goals in the first half put them far ahead, and coach Steinar Lein chose to solidify the lead after half time. Familiar attackers Anna Joesendal and Emilie Nautnes each got a goal, and back-up goalie Lene Christensen returned for the first time this season with a clean sheet.
Montreal 4 – 0 Minnesota (M)
With your mom having a girls night, we celebrated boys night with thirty minutes of soccer watching. Well, I watched and Alex asked questions and Owen bounced around slamming Anna and Elsa into everyone and everything. Sadly, Anna and Elsa had more fun than the Loons who were over run by Montreal including former Loon/Sassy Librarian Mason Toye. Michael Boxall and Miguel Tapias couldn’t do everything and Montreal’s great passes made them too dangerous to stop. But the Loons attack looked better with Emanuel Reynoso involved (though, it may lead to the return of “hero-ball-starring El Rey”…)
Legon Cities 3 – 2 Samartex
The Royals raced out to a quick lead with Ahmed Rahman and Ebenezer Armegah hitting the net before 10 minutes had passed, the Royals repeatedly taking full advantage of some shaky Samartex defending. With the advantage, Legon was able to absorb a lot of Samartex’s attacks, and when Michael Otou got the third with nine minutes to play, the Royals were safe. (It should be noted that Michael received the most Man of the Match honors in the Bet Pawa league this season: cue the slow clap).
Stabek 2 – 2 Rosenborg (M)
Rosenborg fell behind early (an inverse of Legon’s game) but kept driving forward until Jayden Nelson got the first. The second half showed Rosenborg storming the Stabek goal, but coming up empty handed until Erlend Reitan set up Carlo Holse for a last minute equalizer.
Chicago City SC 1 – 3 Minnesota Aurora (F)
The Aurora gave up another goal, but it didn’t make much difference with Kenzie Langdok, Hannah Adler and Mariah Nguyen finding the net and Tianna Harris continuing to lock down the defense en route to being one of the players of the month in the whole USL-W
Emelec 0 – 0 Gualaceo SC (M)
Yup, I got nothing to say here. I do expect that Emelec won’t be overly disappointed to have the first half of the season end on Sunday. (They’ll have one more group match in the Copa Sudamericana, and a win should get them through to the knock-out stage, but a break would not be a bad thing.)
Minnesota Aurora 5 – 0 Green Bay Glory (F)
Rolling smoke from Canadian wildfires made it unsafe to play outside on Wednesday night, but even under a dome and without the normally raucous fans the Aurora continued to run roughshod over opponents, this time with Cat Rapp notching a brace and the steady defensive line once again pitching a shutout.
News & Notes
Overbearing Parent/Coach Update
Alex Steps up
Alex had another great week at soccer. He ran up and down the field a lot, and continued to love getting in the way of shots, which was convenient because his four man team was dwarfed by a pair of 5 year olds who looked 7 so there was a lot of running to do. And again he got his team’s only goal….but that’s not as much fun as defending. The best thing though: he found several chances to cheer on his team as they ran including little Jack (from Owen’s Pre-school class)
Let’s get Messi
You may remember that I wrote about the delights of watching a World Cup final with you both and seeing one of the greatest players of this generation reach the greatest pinnacle of this sport. Well, that same legendary player has decided to write the last chapter of his story here in the United States, including in Minnesota (eventually).
Messi turned down hundreds of millions from Saudi Arabia (literally the Saudi Arabian government owns four teams…) just for playing, to instead accept hundreds of millions from American companies who will pay him for existing and thereby selling more streaming services, shoes and tickets.
The Loons won’t see him until 2024 at the earliest…assuming he’s willing to play on an icy/sweltering Minnesota pitch in the first place. I’ll continue my internal debate: go watch him, or sell the tickets for much more than they are worth.
International Update
We’ve reached the time in the year where (most) soccer players finally, mercifully, have a break.
Unless you’re really good, in which case you need to play more…but this time for your country!
We don’t have exact names of which players will be going where so here’s a brief overview of possible places to look.
North American players will be gearing up for the Gold Cup, but we’re surprisingly light on those. Dayne St. Clair will likely be hanging around Team Canada’s bench, while Samuel Rogers of Rosenborg could line up again for the US. Kervin Arriaga and Joseph Rosales will look to team up in Honduras’ midfield.
In Europe, we have more players based, but just as many hanging around. Mark Flekken the (now former) Freiburg keeper will be hoping to play in the Nations League semif-finals after start Justin Biljow was smoked by Croatia’s attack). Phillip Leinheart and Michael Gregositch will be ready to go for Austria, and Rolland Sallai will be on hand for Hungary in their Euro Tournament qualifiers, and Mathias Ginter will be the lone Freiburg representing Germany.
Finally, Asian/African teams will simply be getting their work outs in preparing for games ahead with Woo-Yeong Jeong joining South Korea, and Ritsu Doan suiting up for Japan, and Bongokhule Hlongwane aims to help South Africa.
Bet Pawa’s Final Update
And that, as they say, is that.
Medema SC held on to claim the title they were driving for. Their win over Tamale City also doomed the northerners to relegation, when Great Olympics got a big win over Nsoatreman to save their bacon…or fried plantain if you prefer. And unless I’m much mistaken Legon Cities’ 9th place finish equaled their best ever showing.
Player of the Week
As we enter the stage of the season where we only have a few teams playing each week, we’ll be able to reward some players who do extremely well and a few who had good years but weren’t able to be the best player on a given week. This week, it’s time to give an overdue shout out to Tiana Harris. As Alex continues to admire defenders, Ms. Harris is a heckuva role model.
Our Queen T is Captain of the May 2023 @USLWLeague Team of the Month! 👑
The quiet season means we’re not real likely to see much movement in the standings, but with Minnesota and Rosenborg the only two sides still clicking along after this week (sorry for my pessimism Emelec), we should still have the race to pressure Punjab in full swing.
Emelec is in an odd spot, floundering in the league but competitive in the confederation cup. Few things show that better than making a trip to Buenos Aires and walking out with points despite an absolutely staggering gaffe to give Huracan an early goal. But they fought back with a great volley from Alejandro Cabeza on Bryan Carabali’s cross and Miller Bolanos’ late goal saved the day. But the last fifteen minutes were extra painful, especially for Cabeza who went from winning the match to being sent off after a pair of VAR checks found him both offside and aggressive with the elbows.
Valenciennes 1 – 0 Grenoble (M)
The Alpiners did a fine job of building up out of the back and connecting their attack, but couldn’t get anything across the goal line.
Frankfurt 2 – 1 Freiburg
Freiburg dropped only their second game to teams outside the top 4. Frankfurt came in motivated for a short at the Europa Conference League if they got a strong result and Leverkusen didn’t but this wasn’t enough.
Valerenga 3 – 1Rosenborg BK (F)
The top of the Toppserien turned into a less competitive match than you might expect with the Oslo side beating our girls from Trondheim, and using a five player midfield to overwhelm Rosenborg. It’s already a nine point gap between the top two teams who won’t meet again until November.
Partizan Belgrade 2 – 1 Vozdovac
The Red Dragons wrapped up their season with a predictable loss to one of the bigger Belgrade clubs. Partizan will have to settle for playoffs into the Europa Conference league, but at least Vozdovac don’t serve as a front for facists….yeah, I said it.
Minnesota 1 – 1 Real Salt Lake (M)
The Loons got some help from Real Salt Lake with an own goal only moments after Salt Lake took the lead. Again, they should feel unlucky as they had enough quality to probably score twice on their own, rather than relying on good fortune just to snatch a draw. Bongokhule Hlongwane was dangerous again, Will Trapp and Hasani Dotson boosted the midfield, and Minnesota rejoiced at the news that Emanuel Reynoso was nearing match fitness again.
Minnesota 4 – 0 Chicago Dutch Lions (F)
The Aurora came out with a fury in Chicago, pestering the goal until Kennedy Faulknor notched a gorgeous goal from a long distance shot. From there Maya Hansen and Cat Rapp continued their impressive double act to add another couple goals and put Minnesota in position to run away with their USL-W division again.
Vfl Wolfsburg 2 – 1 SC Freiburg (F)
Wolfsburg continued to be Freiburg’s bete-noir with another win at the griffin’s expense. Judith Steinert got a consolation goal, and the defense again showed some strong skills to keep things pretty close, as the Frauen of the Black Forest settled in their comfortable 6th place position.
Kilmarnock 3 – 1 Ross County
County needed a victory to ensure they’d stay up, there was pressure and intensity galore. And Kilmarnock scored. Then Alex Iacovitti committed a penalty that Kilmarnock converted. With a thoroughly deflated feeling, County did grab a consolation goal through Yan Dhanda’s penalty, but gave another one up shortly after. So, the loss was settled.
Legon Cities 1 – 0 Hearts of Oak
While Hearts of Oak has long been a dominant force in Ghanaian soccer, the upstarts of Legon have often seemed like the little brothers in the greater Accra landscape. But Legon looked great throughout the game, pushing Hearts of Oak around until Kofi Kordzi’s goal slipped through (it was probably the least likely to go in in). The “Phobians” grew into the match in the second half, but Legon’s defense held firm for their first ever win against one of the local league’s giants. (To be fair, Hearts have dropped five of their last six, so it’s maybe not that shocking, but a win is always welcome).
Le Puy Foot 1 – 1 Grenoble Foot (F)
Les Iseroises had a lot of confidence coming into play Le Puy on an excellent winning streak and facing a team who trailed in the table and had lost by two in their prior meeting. But Le Puy did well, the Grenoble side was frustrated and in the end it was only a point…a very…very painful point (see note below)
Brann 3 – 1 Rosenborg (M)
The Trollguter lost again as Carlo Holse has not been able to find the attacking vim he had in the past and Rosenborg’s anemic offense has them down in the unfamiliar territory of 11th place (the same rank as their goals for). This time, only a penalty saved them from getting blanked.
Emelec 0 – 0 Guayaquil City (M)
An unremarkable Guayaquil face off for Emelec has left the side down just one point off the absolute bottom of the table…yeesh.
Austin FC 2 – 1 Minnesota United (M)
Down in the heart of Texas, the Loons have had some strong showings and some suspect ones. They held their own against Austin and (again) could feel unlucky not to have more balls bounce their way (their expected goals were 3, their total goals were 1…that’s unfortunate. Mender Garcia did do an excellent job setting up Joseph Rosales equalizer, but for the first time in a while the defense looked taxed and unable to keep up.
Minnesota Aurora 10 – 0 RKC FC (F)
Honestly, I was a little frustrated preparing for this because I could not figure out RKC FC’s alphabet soup of a name. Turns out the team is from Racine (R) in Kenosha County (KC) and it is a football club (FC). They also have yet to win this season, and facing last year’s finalists…they were not in a good position to change that. Maya Hansen got a hat trick with the help of Cat Rapp’s assists and took over as the club’s all-time leading scorer (though that is only a two year record)
News & Notes
So…how did it go?
Last time we talked through all the permutations and possibilities. Now things are settled, and here’s where we stand
Grenoble: The men have one last game left, but are firmly grounded in the mid table. I thought the ladies were firmly placed in the mid-table, but ended up getting relegated due to a change in the French leagues set-up (see next news).
Vozdovac: The dragons were in the unusual position of knowing as soon as they landed in the top half of the table that they weren’t going to be relegated and they had no chance of topping the league. Still, it was more fun than being constantly afraid.
Freiburg: the women were settled in the mid-table, but the men had an outside chance to join the top sides going to the prestigious Champions’ League. But Eintracht Frankfurt’s victory spoiled those plans and the Griffins are going back to the Europa League (where they looked great until running in to Juventus).
Ross County: The good news, the Staggies aren’t relegated! Bad news…yet…After their loss County will have to take a two leg tie against Partick Thistle to keep their spot in the Premiership.
Wait, wait…what happened to the Grenoble ladies?
I’ll be honest, I was stumped when the Grenoble social media accounts were upset at a 1-1 draw to end the season against Le Puy. Because (silly me) I had neglected to read a memo from the French Football Federation a year ago announcing a change to the league. Instead of two divisions in Ligue 2, there will be only one next year. Grenoble was right on the cusp of qualifying for the redesigned Ligue 2…but the draw left them level with Albi Marsac…but ahead on goals…which didn’t matter as much as the fact that back in September and December they lost to Albi by a total of 3-0.
So…having a better goal difference, a similar offense, a better defense, and a run of six unbeaten…Grenoble is going down to Ligue 3 because of two games in the last calendar year.
Sometimes the rules around this game are dumb. But we can make the best of the bad situation and hope that Grenoble comes out to win Ligue 3 and jump up a level next year.
Bet Pawa Update
The impossible to expect Bet Pawa league in Ghana is two matches away from it’s conclusion and things are becoming much clearer.
Only three teams can win the title (down from 12 two weeks ago), Medeama SC is in the lead with Aduana Stars and Bechem United needing things to break their way. The relegation battle is still wild. Everyone from sixth place Berekum Chelsea down to King Faisal could still be knocked out (including the Royals of Legon). Things should be clearer after the coming weekend when King Faisal must win against the Royals to have a chance of survival, but a win for Legon might make them safe (provided one team ranked 14-16 also loses)
Player of the Week
Maya Hansen has had one heck of a run this past week. With five goals in two matches this week, she’s been vital in making Aurora the familiar indomitable selves. The question may not be: can they win, the question may be “who is going to stop them?”
Standing
Oof , that was a rough…rough…ROUGH week. There were 15 matches, and our favorite teams got 3 wins, 3 draws and 9 defeats. That’s 10 points from a possible 45. If not for Maya Hansen’s dominance and a superb showing by Legon this would have been utterly miserable.
Team
W
D
L
PPG
GFA
GAA
Punjab–b
12
2
3
2.24
2.29
0.94
Rosenborg
10
5
5
1.75
1.50
0.70
Minnesota
8
3
6
1.59
1.35
1.29
Grenoble
15
5
15
1.43
1.23
1.11
Legon Cities
7
7
7
1.33
1.19
1.24
Freiburg
12
7
17
1.19
1.22
1.67
Emelec
4
4
6
1.14
1.14
1.21
Alebrijes–b
5
5
8
1.11
1.33
1.39
Ross County
5
4
10
1.00
1.21
1.42
Vozdovac
4
3
10
0.88
0.65
1.65
Montana–b
0
0
0
—
—
—
Table Updated 5/25/22 b–Team is between seasons
What’s Next
Thursday, June 1st
Stojorsdals Blink v. Rosenborg (M)
Partick Thistle v. Ross County (Premiership Playoff)
Friday, June 2nd
Grenoble v. Guingamp (M)
Saturday, June 3rd
Rosenborg BK v. Brann (F)
Barcelona SC v. Emelec (M)
Minnesota v. Toronto FC (M)
Sunday, June 4th
King Faisal v. Legon Cities
Rosenborg v. HamKam (M)
Rochester FC v. Minnesota (F)
Ross County v. Partick Thistle (Premiership Playoff)
It was not a great start for the Freiburg frauen, but Janina Minge struck an excellent header before the half time whistle to give Freiburg something to dream about. Then Wolfburg did a lot of Wolfburg things all throughout the second half….but thanks for the 20+ minutes of dreaming Janina
Grenoble 1 – 1 Rodez (M)
While Rodez got the first goal, 22 year-old midfielder Baptiste Isola got the equalizer and the Grenoble defensive juggernaut of Mathys Tourraine and Adrien Monfray contained the action there after.
Freiburg 2 – 0 Wolfsburg (M)
Der Herr von Freiburg got revenge on Wolfsburg the day after the cup final. Roland Sallai delivered both assists, and Nils Peterson scored an emotionally charged goal in the strong showing from Freiburg continuing to put pressure on opponents to seal their spot in Europe.
Motherwell 1 – 0 Ross County
The Staggies were in fine shape throughout the match, holding off a Motherwell side that’s the class of the relegation league. Then a late red card and an ugly penalty gave Motherwell the opening they needed to take all three points and arrest the Ross County momentum.
Bechem United 2 – 0 Legon Cities
Bechem United’s two strikes in the first half were more than William Essu could handle. We’ll see how Legon does with the pressure going forward
Universidad Catolica 3 – 2 Emelec
Los Bomillos have not had their usual swagger this spring, as again is evidenced by the penalty ceded to Universidad early on. From there, chasing the matchdid not work out well, and though Alejandro Cabeza and Jhon Sanchez got consolations later on, it wasn’t particularly close.
Portland Timbers 0 – 1 Minnesota (M)
Add another verse to the legend of Bongokhule Hlongwane! Most of this match featured strong defense (thanks again Michael Boxall) and midfield action limiting quality chances. It took until stoppage time to get a goal on the board, and when it came it came from the man who has been at the center of the action for seemingly months: The one they call Bongi.
SC Freiburg 1 – 3 FC Koln (F)
Die Frauen had a hard go of it against Koln (after having an unpleasant experience in Koln during the final earlier in the week). Falling behind quickly led to a four player swap out at half time. And while that did again reward one of our favorite players in Hasret Kayici (who scored in her appearance), it was an underwhelming outing to say the least.
Rosenborg 6 – 0 Avaldsnes (F)
Sometimes, it seems like Rosenborg is working overtime to keep up with the growing intensity of the Toppseiren. Sometimes, it looks like they’re toying with kids. This was a time to toy with others. The Jo-Jos (which is a nickname that looks like a Trader Joe’s cookie, but would be pronounced like one of your favorite spinning toys), Emilie Joramo and Anna Joesendal each scored, and there was a brace from defender Sara Horte to close out the scoring (which seems a little unfair as Horte is approximately 12 feet taller than everyone else…okay that’s a bad approximation, but I’m serious, she dominated).
Vozdovac 1 – 1 Cukaricki
This was a wild one. The opening goal for Cukaricki wasn’t terribly shocking, but then came the second half. It started two goals awarded, and then drawn back for very narrow offsides calls. A series of aggressive tackles led to a red card for Cukaricki (that even I as a Vozdovac supporter, don’t fully believe). And then came a 90th minute equalizer from Danilo Teodorovic that slipped through the other side’s packed back line. Until the final touch: an empty net opportunity for Vozdovac….that they whiffed on.
The score doesn’t tell the whole story.
Grenoble Foot 3 – 1 Yzeure Allier (F)
Melanie Charber and Florsie Joseph struck again to let les Iserois close out their home schedule with a strong win. That makes it 5 in a row for the ladies of the mountains, and with one match left, they can hold their heads high however it turns out
Houston Dynamo 4 – 0 Minnesota United (M-Cup)
The Loons had an ugly outing in the last sixteen of the US Open Cup. After beating Philadelphia in a thrilling match, going to Houston might have been a let down, but maybe not a Kervin-Arriaga-gets-a-first-half-red-card-and-the-team-is-too-short-handed-to-stop-Houston’s attack, sized let down.
Trygg Lade 0 – 1 Rosenborg (M–Cup)
Agon Sadiku struck early and Rosenborg had everything they needed to beat the little neighbor kids from down the road in Trondhiem. Would have been nice if they’d taught that to the bigger kids (including Uncle Matt) who whooped me in every competition imaginable.
Ross County 3 – 3 St. Johnstone
It sure seemed like Ross County saw how wild Vozdovac’s game got and promptly decided, “hey, hold my dram”. The match started out with a St. Johnstone taking advantage of some miscues and opening up a two goal lead. When suddenly, shockingly, County roared back. A penalty of their own opened the scoring, then Jordan White equalized and then, in the 90th minute, Jack Baldwin got the glorious go-ahead goal for joyous celebrations from the Jail End supporters, and then…after five minutes of stoppage time, St. Johnstone leveled it up again!
Minnesota Aurora 5 – 0 Rochester FC (F)
This was much more comfortable than the wildness of Dingwall earlier in the day. Cat Rapp found the net twice and Maya Hansen continued to show strong form at the top of the attack. Rochester’s new to this, but it was a pretty impressive day none the less.
News & Notes
Our Boy is a Number 10!
After his first soccer practice, Alex came home with a number 10 jersey. I immediately imagined him becoming the American Messi, or better still an American Attaquaye. In reality, he grabbed a shirt from a pile, and he was much happier revealing his shin guards than anything else. So, everybody wins. (He also just graduated from Pre-school, or as he put it “I’m going to Kindergarten and then on and on and on and on”).
Griz Soccer Schedule
Most teams just look at the schedule to see when they play their fiercest rivals, and how the sequence of matches could play out. But college sports are a special (strange) beast. In addition to playing the teams in your league (or conference) you have to fill out your schedule by playing other sides. So a team like Montana, which consistently challenges for the top of the conference can go one of three routes: book a bunch of fairly easy games to have an even better record and show off, book a bunch of hard games against teams to raise your level, or mix the two approaches together.
Coach Chris Citowicki consistently chooses the third option, but has leaned more and more on the harder games. To wit, this year sees the Griz taking on some of the top teams in the Big Ten conference (which actually has like 14 members, but…I digress). This season the Griz will host both Ohio State and the University of Maryland, and go on the road against Oregon State and Oklahoma. There are also matches in the blood feud against North Dakota schools (our dinosaur sites are better than your dinosaur sites!) and the Brawl of the Wild substitute against MSU-Billings near the end of August.
Big news of the day, Part II: You can get your season tickets today!
— Montana Griz Soccer 🐻⚽️ (@MontanaGrizSOC) May 18, 2023
Vielen Dank, Nils!
Nils Peterson is something of a cult hero in Freiburg. He has an uncanny knack for scoring vital goals in the limited time he spends on the pitch. But Peterson’s decided to retire at the end of the season. So, in the final home match of this season, playing in front of the fans who love him, scoring one more time, was a special way to end a career. We only started watching comparatively recently, but we can’t help but agree: thank you Nils!
Down to the wire
As May comes to a close, so too do most of the leagues we follow. This weekend will see the end of the Bundesliga and French Ligue-2s (both for men and women), the Scottish Premiership, and Serbian Premier League. There’s not a lot of drama in these for our sides as both Grenoble teams, and Vozdovac are set for solid but not superb mid-table finishes. Freiburg is guaranteed more European football next year, but doesn’t know yet if they’ll be in the top dog Champion’s League or the Best of the Rest Europa League (given how they performed against the top four in Germany and Juventus, another year in the Europa league feels right). The greatest drama lies in Dingwall, where the Staggies will face Kilmarnock, and after the action on Wednesday, it will mean that a Staggies win will see them safe and Killie into the relegation playoff. A draw or a loss by itself would put County in the relegation playoffs. And a loss coupled with a Dundee United win over Motherwell might (depending on goal totals) push County down to the second tier of Scottish soccer.
The Tightest League no one is talking about
While things are pretty calm in the leagues that end this weekend, that’s not he case in Ghana’s Bet Pawa Premier League. Coming into this weekend’s slate of games, 16 of 18 teams were still at risk of relegation, and 12 teams were still in mathematical contention for the title….which means seven teams could have either won or been knocked out with a month to play. (These numbers will adjust a bit with each week, so we’ll keep an eye on it to see if the drama holds to the very end)
UPDATE: After this weekend’s matches, 9 teams can win the league (not Legon *tear*), and 14 teams can join Kotoku Royals in going down (including the Royals *eep*)…3 matches to go!
Player of the Week
Anna Josensdal was in complete control for Rosenborg this weekend. Though the Kvinner ran out winners with a lot of excellent performances, Josensdal running the show from midfield was a huge factor (and the two goals didn’t hurt either).
Standing
I’m sneaking in this writing after everyone else has gone to bed…tabulating points per game seems a little farther than I’m willing to go…this will be updated in the morning.
Okay, Update time: With another win, the ladies of Grenoble have kept the good times rollingand moved themselves comfortably into fourth place for the moment. The United Minnesota force of the Loons and Aurora nearly caught up with Rosenborg, but then the cup ties happened and the Trolls inched up closer to Punjab.
Freiburg’s had a fabulous season, but it’s worth noting one key difference between them and the four teams that are ahead of them in the Bundesliga. As good as Freiburg has been they have only gotten 3 points of a possible 18 against the teams that are ahead of them (that’s one win, zero draws and seven losses). I’m not sure what will get Freiburg up to the top tier, but it will for sure need it.
Dundee United 1 – 3 Ross County
Jordan White hasn’t been the most dominant striker this season, but he did everything he needed to do to boost county off the foot of the table. His hattrick was a huge pendulum shift to knock Dundee down below them. It is by no means over, but that’s a big help to County’s cause.
Bodo/Glimt 3 – 2 Rosenborg (M)
Rosenborg was left continuously chasing this match as their defense. After giving up two goals in the first four matches, Samuel Rogers and his partners in the backline three have given up eight in the last three. Midfielder Edvard Tagseth still put together his best match of the season with both of the assists, but Rosenborg’s going to need to sort out the defense to get back on track this year.
Backa Topola 2 – 0 Vozdovac
Vozdovac looked strong until the final 15 minutes when Topola notched both their goals, and the Dragons could only sigh and accept their continued slide to the bottom of end of the championship division.
Metz 1 – 0 Grenoble (M)
Metz has excelled this year and is trying doggedly to keep themselves in contention for a promotion, this was the kind of win they needed to confirm their position, it’s a shame that it came at the expense of Grenoble, but so it goes.
Sporting KC 3 – 0 Minnesota (M)
The friendliest rivalry in soccer may not be quite as friendly in future after the lowest ranked side in the Western Conference smacked the Loons around in Kansas City, but that’s where we are. Looking around, hoping that something gets better before it gets worse.
MSV Duisburg 1 – 1 SC Freiburg (F)
Riola Xhemaili made an instant impact after she came on as a second half substitute, notching her 3rd goal of the campaign. But a poorly timed foul gave Duisburg a penalty and Freiburg had to share the spoils.
Brann 1 – 4 Rosenborg (F)
Emilie Nautnes scored within four minutes and Anna Josenesdal notched two goals (including one posted below) as The Trolljenta got back to their winning ways in Bergen. They are still only six points off the top of the table despite a lackluster few weeks.
Miller Bolanos returned and almost immediately scored! That’s the good news. The bad news is that Samuel Sosa’s foolish red card at the end of the first half opened the door for Quito to equalize making it seven straight league games without a win for los bombillos.
Rosenborg 1 – 0 FK Haugesund (M)
The menfolk of Trondheim also got back to winning with this result. Markus Henriksen was the most dangerous defender setting up almost every attack RBK had and providing sterling defense, which they needed. Despite being up a man for the last sixty minutes of the match, the Rosenborg attack continues to struggle, but did get an assist from 16 year old Sverre Halseth Nypan..who, and I can’t stress this enough: is 16 years OLD!
Minnesota 1 – 0 Houston Dynamo
The Loons got their first home win of the year just last night. It was a long time coming, but it came with both common sights (Miguel Tapias, Michael Boxall, and Kemar Lawrence playing strong defense) and strong trends (great work in space by Bongokhule Hlongwane, and all around presence by Dayne St. Clair).
News & Notes
All aboard the youth sports train
Alex now has three athletic activities a week booked up and ready to roll. There’s swimming lesson Saturday’s, Soccer Sundays, and T-Ball Mondays (Go Purple Caribou). So far your favorite position seems to be: “doing things” as evidenced by the rugby scrum for every t-ball grounder (which is to say, every t-ball hit). Owen was too young to get signed up this year, but does ask constantly if it’s his turn yet. So…it begins, and I likely won’t have a free moment for a good while to come.
Women’s Endings and Beginnings
Freiburg plays for the German Cup in a few hours, facing off against European giant side, Wolfsburg. They are underdogs, but they seem to thrive in that role, so we’ll keep our fingers crossed. Grenoble will play their final home match of the season this weekend, having escaped danger of relegation. And Minnesota Aurora will kick off their season this weekend including dual Aurora and Griz Keeper Bayliss Flynn, while the Griz will get their first peek at the fall schedule, while celebrating the players who recently got their degrees!
— Montana Griz Soccer 🐻⚽️ (@MontanaGrizSOC) May 13, 2023
Player of the Week
I try not to only pick goal scorers, but when you get a hat trick in the most important game of the season so far, you have to be player of the week. Kudos to you Jordan White!
Standings
A rough week for Freiburg sees them slide down the table (even though our table doesn’t mean a whole heck of a lot…I mean, if you finish 8th here on a random blog competition, but still qualify for the biggest leagues in Europe, you’re probably doing all right). But County’s big win boosts them farther away from Vozdovac…though again, beating Vozdovac doesn’t keep them in the top flight of Scotland…though I might petition otherwise.
Two losses at home to the same team in the same week. I try not to loathe anyone but man Leipzig makes it tempting…like the Yankees of German Fusball.
Ross County 2 – 0 Livingston
The Stags took their destiny by the horns (If you’ll forgive the pun) in a big win to kick off the relegation group against comfortably mid table Livingston. Yan Dhanda returned for his second match in nine weeks with two assists, including two great assists on superb crosses (Alex Iacovitti’s finish was particularly satisfying). Look out, County isn’t out of it yet! (Beating Dundee next week would be a big help)
Rosenborg 1 – 3 Valerenga (M)
A makeshift back line (absent Erlend Reitan) couldn’t give Rosenborg enough support, and a foolish foul by Andre Hansen sealed the team’s fate.
Paris FC 1 – 0 Grenoble (M)
The Alpiner’s defense finally cracked, and as the offense was unable to get a shot on goal, there wasn’t enough there to do anything but accept defeat.
Vancouver 3 – 2 Minnesota
The Loons were better at creating chances and threatening goal than they have been the last few matches, but it came at a cost of the defense giving more room and allowing the Whitecaps to capitalize.
SC Freiburg 1 – 1 Werder Bremen (F)
Lisa Kolb has made most of her appearances off the bench this season, as the Austrian works to establish herself as a top tier of the Griffins’ attack. She absolutely showed why she belongs at the tip of the attack creating a lot of danger with both passes and headers and finally setting up the vital equalizer.
Legon Cities 3 – 2 Nsoatreman
The Royals made the most of their best half in months. They haven’t notched three goals in one game since February, with strikers Samuel Armah and Ahmed Rahman notching goals, and Eric Bonsu cracking a gorgeous corner kick (or so I’ve been told as I can’t find video). The win it came at a great time. With matches against two top 5 teams in the next two weeks, any result would be a huge help.
The top of the Toppserien was too close to call in Trondheim. it was a little surprising that each team only made 1 substitute, we hope there’s a little more strategy in the next match-up.
Cumbaya 0 – 0 Emelec (M)
I’ve found something to say about other nil-nils but I’ve got nothing here.
Nimes Metropole Gard 0 – 6 Grenoble Foot (F)
That’s three at a trot for Grenoble’s ladies. Granted Nimes has only gotten 8 points this season, and they came in having allowed almost 70 more goals than they scored, but a win is a win and Melanie Chabrier’s brace offered a big addition to the cause from a less frequent source of offense (Claudia Fabre and Chelsea Supris, a bit more expected)
Red Star is a dangerous team in any competition, and this was no different. Even with homefield advantage, Vozdovac couldn’t find a way through…but that’s practically expected at this point.
Minnesota 3 – 3 Philadelphia (M-Cup–Loons advance on penalties 7-6)
Philadelphia has put together several years as one of the best teams in MLS, and while they rotated a lot of players out of the mid-week match, they took it seriously. But so did Minnesota, as Bongokhule Hlongwane continued his excellently aggressive approach with an assist and a goal within five minutes to give them a great lead. But then, fellow substitute Kai Wagner helped equalize deep in stoppage time to force overtime. Then Bongi did it again, with a second goal…and then Wagner did it again…and we ended up in a penalty shoot out. It took 8 penalties to decide it, when finally Kai Wagner was stopped to end the game, courtesy of Clint Irwin (who just last year was mockingly named “Old Dutch” when he was in goal for a different team)
News & Notes
El Rey in happier times
Return of the King
Emanuel Reynoso is back in Minnesota. The team has managed to hold their own without him, but as a dynamic playmaker it could be really helpful. Of course…letting a malcontent midfielder run the show while players who want to be there twiddle their thumbs…could be seriously harmful.
Irresponsible conjecture
We said hi to an old friend during the county game, former Punjab talisman Kurtis Guthrie who made a brief substitute cameo before getting a red card.
Kurtis hasn’t had a great season in Scotland, but Footmob ranks him at 6.1 per game…just as good as County’s strikers this season.
So…if Punjab’s best striker last season would make the grade as County’s best too…maybe Luka Macjen or Juan Mera or just maybe Chencho Gyeltsen…might look good in Dingwall…LET THE RUMOR MONGERING BEGIN!!!
Beograd Jak
Serbia has been rocked by tragedy the last two weeks. People have used a variety of guns to shoot groups of people without any clear reason.
To be honest, there is no reason that could justify these senseless killings. We see them far too often here in the US, but, despite Serbia’s fondness for guns, it rarely happens there. So the acts, and the victims shocked many.
So, Monday Vozdovac took the field and stood in silence, even though it was a marquee match against front running Red Star. Players advocated for change by wearing shirts that read:
The dragon’s heart is sad these days because something ugly is happening in our Serbia.
Nine lives were extinguished one day, and eight were lost the next day too.
We have nothing left but to ask our neighbors to love even more.
Let’s all fight for a better tomorrow, let’s create a more beautiful Serbia for children!
Kudos to them
This is my best attempt to clean up what Google identified as Bosnian but I’m pretty sure was Croatian.
I have read about questions regarding the government’s use of strict laws and endorsements from public figures (like soccer clubs) to push an agenda. Frankly, I’m not inclined to doubt people’s intentions. Vozdovac saw pain and (along with Red Star) spoke out to comfort their supporters.
My hearts are with the families and friends of the victims in Serbia, and my voice is raised along with Vozdovac.
Bongi Unleashed (from Star Tribune)
Player of the Week
It seemed like pretty slim pickings for best player of the week. Only three sides (County, Legon, and Grenoble’s Ladies side) managed to get wins, but they all did it with a degree of difficulty: relegation staring down the sides in Scotland and Ghana and a road trip for the French. While Yan Dhanda’s distribution and Eric Bonsu’s delivery and Melanie Charbier’s breakthrough were all positives, it’s hard to overlook the massive positive that was Bongokhule Hlongwane’s sterling performance in a knock out cup game. I’ll also hope that not recognizing County and Legon encourages them to keep it up and earn plaudits in future weeks.
Standings
There’s only one change in the standings this week, with County’s big win pushing them up off the bottom of the table (for now). Legon and Grenoble also got closer to Minnesota and Rosenborg, but the gap between those four and Punjab just seems to be growing.
Emelec had a lead against a dangerous rival in Ecuador’s Serie A early on in the second half, and then it all came undone. Goalscorer Jhon Sanchez drew a red card, and though it took them some time, Independente capitalized…scoring twice in the last 5 minutes of regular time to win the match.
Rosenborg BK 3 – 0 Lyn Football (F)
A week after their first slip of the season, the Trolljenta were back in action. Emilie Joramo opened the scoring (continuing to make defensive midfielders around our leagues look awesome on a great run in combination play), and Emilie Nauntes finally got on the scoresheet but the attack remains unsettled in Trondheim.
Koln 0 – 1 Freiburg (M)
Lucas Holer has been making magic happen with his boots lately, but in this showing he spread the wealth around connecting aon a bit of head to head ping pong with Ritsu Doan to net the winner. The excellent timing kept Freiburg squarely in the conversation for European soccer.
Grenoble 2 – 0 Niort (M)
Les Alpiners have solidified their spot in the middle of the Ligue 2 table (with this win they officially made it impossible to be demoted), but the real focus for this year now needs to be defining who will help lead the team going forward. Mathais Phaeton certainly seems to be Jessy Benet’s new midfield partner in crime and Abdoulie Sanyang threat on the right (complete with goal in this match) makes him a plus too. Keep an eye on the defense which has been stout, and still includes the ever amusing Loic Nestor back heel (setting up the second goal in this match).
Vojvodina 2 – 0 Vozdovac
Back-to-back wins didn’t become a winning streak for the dragons as they fell to Vojvodina (but as this result helped Vojvodina leapfrog the fascists at Partizan Belgrade in the race for European soccer…I’m okay with that.)
Dreams FC 5 – 1 Legon Cities
Welp, there went the Royals’ momentum. The social media team was NOT pleased with the ref, and I can see why: two red cards in the second half was a pretty rock road to hoe. But would it be spring of a Legon season if there wasn’t untoward drama?
And that happened. (Seriously though, Rosenborg’s 3 goals in 4 matches is worryingly poor. Isak Thorvaldsen was pulled after one half and Oscar Aga had more chances but was similarly ineffective. Erlend Reiten and Samuel Rogers have been vital in defense, but they can’t do everything.
Minnesota 0 – 0 Dallas (M)
Speaking of defenders we’re grateful for, in our first match at Allianz field this season we were impressed by Kemar Lawrence. The defender was an absolute bulldozer both with and without the ball, and we know how you boys like bulldozers. Bongokhule Hlongwane and Luis Amarilla tried to be, but found that kicking while falling over doesn’t provide enough power to score.
Avaldsnes 1 – 1 Rosenborg BK
The search for a reliable goal scorer continues. With Celine Nergård netting her first goal of the season, but then leaving with 30 minutes to play. Mixing and matching strikers hasn’t worked yet…but don’t bet against the Trolljenta.
From Dfb.de (Freiburg Falls Down)
Freiburg 1 – 4 RB Leipzig (M-Cup)
Hopes were high for revenge on Red Bull and a return to the dfb Pokal Final. In about twenty minutes hopes were dashed and there was no joy in Freiburg. The two teams play again this weekend…more reason for revenge.
Rosenborg 0 – 2 Brann (M)
Rosenborg’s best work this year has come when the defense is able to be themselves and hold down the fort (thanks again Sam Rogers). So when they drew two yellow cards before the first ten minutes, they were set up to struggle. Sure enough Brann ran straight at them and picked up two goals against the Rosenborg side with 5 yellows before the match was done and dusted.
Guarani 1 -1 Emelec (M-South American Cup)
Alejandro Cabeza consistently appears when Emelec needs him most. Like Batman, only without the dark and brooding backstory. So it was here when he struck late in the second half to salvage a road point in Paraguay.
94 Years ago, American George Capwell started a baseball team with his electrical company. Soon the workers asked to start a football team too, almost a century later, here we are with both men and women playing and exciting people who’ve never even been to Ecuador itself. A testament to what happens when you listen to your workers (this may or may not be thinly veiled suggestion for my employers)
I turn heads of random drivers on Lexington Avenue
A couple of months ago, Alex was sick and throwing up all over the place. On our drive to the Urgent Care, I was stunned to see a Red Chevy with an SC Freiburg Decal. In part because Freiburg isn’t exactly a world renowned side, and also in part because seeing them endorsed on a road firmly within our little corner of St. Paul seemed extremely odd. Eventually Alex felt better, we cleaned the puke out of the car, and I saw the Red Freiburg Chevy a few more times. Finally, this last week, I managed to actually be stopped at a light next to them, urged them to roll down the window and shouted “Freiburg Uber Alles” to a great laugh from the family inside. Love of a favorite team man, it connects people in weird ways and unforeseen places.
Player of the Week
It’s hard to find a lot of comprehensive statistics for defenders. But I generally trust FootMob’s point of view when it comes to overall quality of play. In that regard it’s hard to argue against giving overdue recognition to a new right back (because at some point we come to expect Gaspar, Monfray and Nestor to be awesome). So hat’s off to Mathys Tourraine who certainly fits the mold of Grenoble’s new Dartagnan
Standings
As we come into May we’ve got a lot of teams getting ready for their big final pushes in their domestic seasons. But in the year long MacKenzie Cup we’re not yet half-way through. Grenoble’s improvement for both the men and the women made them the biggest gainers in this week’s standings, while more slips have continued Emelec’s tumble (obligatory reference to Miller Bolanos goes here).
Alebrijes’ up and down form continued as, Julio Cruz made an impact within 2 minutes of coming on in the second half, but couldn’t get the win.
Ross County 0 – 1 Aberdeen
It’s been rough going for County this year, but that shouldn’t fall on the defense. Alex Iacovitti, Jack Baldwin and Keith Watson have created the strongest back line outside of Glasgow (and the dominant Old Firm). But their attack has been worse than everyone except Kilmarnock). They are 20 goals off of their total last year (and clearly miss Charles Regan Cook)
RB Leipzig 0 – 1 SC Freiburg (F-Cup)
It’s another Cup final for Freiburg, this one coming thanks to a victory over corporate rival RB Leipzig. It was a tense affair going all the way to the sixth minute of stoppage time, when Hasret Kayici (who else) got on the right end of a great volley to net the winner that sends die Frauen to the finals.
Emilie Joramo scored early for win. That should complete the defensive midfielder’s allotment for the year, but when it nets three points it was clearly well timed.
Minnesota 1 – 2 Orlando (M)
The Loons couldn’t seem to convert on their opportunities, but had great chances. On a normal day Bongokhule Hlongwane’s wild man unleashed style shoulda woulda given the Loons 2 goals. But news is rarely about what coulda happened, and as Orlando actually did get the goals that’s all that counts.
Punjab finally got some points in the cup, came against their fellow I-Leaguers, and unfortunately after they were eliminated. It is some consolation for Punjab to get a win in the Super Cup, even if it leaves them finishing bottom of their group, it came against their old rivals in Delhi. If we learned anything from this tournament, it’s that the Warriors have some work to do before the ISL campaign starts up in the fall. (I’m still not sure if coach Staikos Vergetis’ more defensive plan is the way to go to limit opponents, or if the best defense is a good offense)
Werder Bremen 1 – 2 Freiburg (M)
Bremen looked best during the first half but Lucas Holer and Roland Sallai were a great combo returning the benefits to one another to get the win.
Legon Cities 2 – 0 Kotoku Royals
Michael Otou’s brace against bottom of the table Royals was very valuable. (Teams 13-17 are all tied at 31 point, two of the five will be relegated…hopefully not our Royals)
Molde 1 – 1 Rosenborg (M)
Rosenborg’s best period of pressure led to an own goal and the required work for a draw.
Olympique Marseille 1 – 3 Grenoble Foot (F)
A win. On the road. Against a prestige club like Marseille. Wowza, when the ladies of Grenoble come back, they come all the way back! A double for Jade Decilap was instrumental in the result.
It remains the Miller Bolanos show in Emelec, as in, why can’t we do anything without Miller Bolanos? The talismanic midfielder’s absence was palpable again, as Los Bombillos had plenty of possession but couldn’t seem to do much with it after Jose Cevallos scored in the early going.
Grenoble 0 – 2 Saint-Etienne (M)
It was a good but not really outstanding effort for Grenoble in the shirt sponsor Derby. But the pictures of the game looked like a lot of fun
Alebrijes 1 – 0 Pumas Tabasco
Julio Caesar Cruz was the man of the night, scoring his sixth of the campaign on what can best be described as a goal by default and keeping Oaxaca in the thick of the mid table tussle.
Asane 0 – 3 Rosenborg (F)
In their second match of the week, the Troll ladies (which is a nickname I will keep using no matter that I’m the only one using it) continued their perfect start to the season. The veterans Cesilie Andreassen and Synne Hansen both scored
News & Notes
Blakstad’s Back in the Ice and Snow
Blog favorite Julie Blakstad‘s time in Manchester has been generally strong. She seems to score at every opportunity, but there are plenty of talents to employ at one of the world’s biggest clubs. So rather than giving her a richly deserved role, Julie has been loaned out to Swedish side BK Häcken. Obviously, we’d have preferred a return to the black and white of Trondheim, but if Julie’s happy, we’re happy.
Player of the Week
With multiple braces we could open an orthodonture clinic (ba-dum CHING!!). But the player who made us smile the most has to be Jade Decilap who has helped Grenoble’s Mesdames get back on track AND boasts far more swag than I do.
Punjab nearly got back to the top spot on their own skills with their win of Deccan, but if we’ve learned one thing in these last years it’s to NEVER bet against the women of Rosenborg. Meawhile, Emelec’s slide continues, without Miller Bolanos they seeem to be bereft…not unlike my heart
Kotoko might be one of Ghana’s true giants, but Legon always seems up to the challenge. Alex Aso got the equalizer to keep Legon looking tough
Arna-Bjornar 0 – 1 Rosenborg (F)
The Trolljenta got another win but it took a late winner from Emilie Nautnes to snatch the points.
Freiburg 1 – 1 Hertha BSC (M)
The boys of Breisgau haven’t lost domestically in almost two months, but that’s come with a lot of disappointing draws, including this one to relegation battlers Hertha after Vincenzo Grifo got the lead
Vozdovac 0 – 1 Javor
The dragons dropped another home match. I’m not sure what would help make home cooking work for them but they have a long way to go to catch up with the top four sides in Serbia.
Grenoble 2 – 1 Armiens (M)
Jessy Bennet slotted home a first half penalty and nearly scored a very cheeky chip shot. Abdoulie Sanyang got the second half winner, but attention should also be paid to 22 year old Mathys Tourraine who has quickly become a vital cog in both defense and attack for Les Alpiners.
Delfin 3 – 2 Emelec (M)
It was a testy match in Ecuador with three spot kicks given (and all of them converted). Miller Bolaños left room for someone else (Alejandro Cabeza) to score, but he also left the match early due to an injury, which isn’t what you’d hope to see for the clear talisman of the team. Defender Fernando Leon drew a second yellow card to leave the team a man short and ultimately leaven enough room room for Delfín to keep threatening and finally snatch a late winner.
St. Louis City 0 – 1 Minnesota (M)
Both teams came into the match undefeated, but only the visitors left that way. St. Louis had control for most of the match, but when the Loons threatened, they made the most of it. Luis Amarilla smashed in the winning penalty after bottling some strong opportunities. The reinvigorated back line, especially the eternally present Michael Boxall stood tall to stop St Louis from equalizing.
Ross County 0 – 2 Celtic
Within regular time County earned a draw. But soccer also includes extra time, and that’s where Celtic scored.
Freiburg 0 – 1 Turbine Potsdam (F)
Potsdam handed the Frauen their fifth straight loss…this one turning on Meret Witje’s own goal. Ugh.
Grenoble Foot 1 – 0 Thonon Evian (F)
Good news for Freiburg the ladies of the Alps broke their own five game skid with a vital win, and one against one of the best teams in France’s second division. Goalkeeper Bolkach had an excellent game defending against Thonon’s potent attack and in a last minute counter attack Claudia Fabre picked out newcomer Florsie Joseph and Grenoble got a tremendous winner. So hey, Freiburg, there’s hope!
Bibiana Gold Stars 3 – 2 Legon Cities FC
A wild first half saw the Gold Stars take the lead, after Ebenezer Armegah and Eric Bonsu briefly gave Legon the edge. and despite their best efforts (and a reversed goal), the Royals lost and dropped firmly into the relegation zone
Bayern Munich 1 – 2 Freiburg (M-Cup)
Few teams are as dominant as Bayern Munich are in Germany, but for the third straight year Freiburg has either matched or outperformed them in the Cup.
Nicholas Hofler connected with as beautiful a goal as you will ever see to balance the books. The defensive line (especially Ginter, Gunter, and Gulde) stymied an insistent Bayern attack until they forced Bayern into more mistakes, this time with a series of fouls that allowed Lucas Holer to win it on a hand ball Penalty Kick in extra time.
To celebrate, Freiburg got to face Munich again on the weekend and will face Liepzig, the team that beat them in last year’s final, in the semi’s
Partizan Belgrade 1 – 0 Vozdovac
Partisan can be a brutal opponent. So much so that in the last 7 matches they won by an average of 3-0. So the red dragons only losing by 1 is a high water mark not seen since March of 2020.
Danubio 2 – 0 Emelec (M-South American Cup)
Danubia hasn’t been great shakes in their local Uruguayan league this year. But they had no trouble containing or attacking Emelec. The best news, Uruguayan native midfielder — had one of his best games yet for Los Bombillos.
Alebrijes 1 – 0 Cancun FC
Armando Gonzalez got an early goal off a rebound from Ernesto Reyes’ blast of a free kick. Even though Oaxaca earned 4 yellow cards in 12 minutes, and were unable to make good on several one-on-one opportunities, they withstood the pressure of Cancun.
Freiburg 0 – 1 Bayern Munich (M)
Munich got their win back in the domestic league, capitalizing on the early departure of Manuel Gulde to bedevil the back line and batter the Freiburg net to the tune of 3.5 expected goals. In that light, even losing by one is a bit of an accomplishment for Freiburg. (Not one they’re going to put in their hall of fame, but something at least)
St. Johnstone 0 – 2 Ross County
The Staggies returned to action and got a win for the first time since February! Jordan White made a major nusiance of himself and set up Simon Murray (who came on for the injured Eamonn Brophy) for the first goal on an absolute banger. Then rarely used midfielder David Cancola made the most of his moment getting one of his own on a scrambled ball into the box.
Kerala Blasters 3 – 1 Punjab FC (Cup)
Punjab’s first effort against a Super League side left a little something to be desired. Kerala was able to control the match despite Punjab rolling out a broader midfield than usual, which did slow down Kerala for the first half, until a penalty gave the Blasters the lead. A half time swap of midfielder Maheson Singh for attacker Krishnananda Khundongbam paid off with Punjab’s goal, but the more expanded midfield was easier for Kerala to get past (leading to two more goals and the win)
Laval 0 – 1 Grenoble (M)
Mathais Phaeton got the early goal thanks to a scintillating through ball from (who else) Jessy Bennet and Brice Mableu was able to shut down Laval for the rest of the match to seal a win.
Chicago Fire 2 – 1 Minnesota United
Kei Kamara took two early goals for Chicago, and by the time your mom and I tuned in after you were tucked in at last, we were at the desperate crosses situation for the Loons. Kervin Arriaga got one, but despite many fine chances and amazing efforts, Bongokhule Hlongwane couldn’t score the vital equalizer.
Aucus 2 – 1 Emelec (M)
Emelec’s struggles continued with another loss, bouyed only by Jose Cevallos’ injury time consolation goal. The team that lives by Miller Bolanos, also dies by Miller Bolanos (at least when Miller Bolanos is out of the match with an injury, but even then we will still write Miller Bolanos’ name so many times that we summon him to Minnesota).
Rosenborg 1 – 0 Viking (M)
Rosenborg started their campaign with a revenge win against the team that knocked them out of the cup (kind of like the reverse Freiburg experience). Ulrik Jennssen was a pest in defense, and Adrian Pereira celebrated his first start since August of last year with the winning goal off of a half volley in the middle of nothing.
Danilo Teodorovic scored first, but Topola came back with a vengeance. We would be upset, but any team that breaks up the Partizan/Red Star duopoly is okay in our books.
Punjab FC 0 – 2 Bengaluru FC (Cup)
Again Punjab set up in a defensive posture which…again worked for the first half, and then, when they got a little more aggressive in the second half, Bengaluru capitalized and took the lead. Huidrom Singh’s second yellow card didn’t help matters and let Bengaluru seal the win.
News & Notes
Jonah Attuquaye off to Latvia
We’ve made no mistake about it, Jonah Attuquaye is one of our all time favorite players during this project. He almost single handedly lifted up the Royals from their lowest ebbs and kept them consistently fresh when they desperately needed to be. But, all things must come to an end, and a player of Jonah’s caliber deserves a fresh challenge and opportunity. Last month (far below the radar of all the news I was following) he got that opportunity with a move to FK Auda in Latvia (which my former students say is lovely).
I truly hope he excels in Europe and maybe, in a season or so, there’s room for him in Rosenborg or Ross County.
Indian Super Cup Starts…and Ends
It was a pretty brief break for Round Glass Punjab as they spent a month celebrating their championship in the I-League, but the Super Cup provides them with a chance to prove themselves before the Super League starts next fall. They did draw a dangerous group, featuring two ISL playoff teams (Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru FC) and a fierce I-League rival (Sreenidi Deccan…you know…the team they were fighting for the trophy for months). We love a new competition, and we love Punjab, but the results from the first week of action made the next steps moot as the two losses show they are already eliminated…(Chenchyo Geltsyen’s absence was palpable.)
Spring Break! woo.
I love you boys. I love your mom and her family. I love travel.
This was hard.
We spent 6 days in Los Angeles, where the weather was lovely and I felt completely exhausted regardless. You guys had great fun seeing all the science and sunshine that LA could offer and playing happily with your Auntie, random kids at a scenic playground and a variety of newly adopted stuffies and Dino toys. You also did not understand time differences and insisted on waking me up at 4:30, and only going to bed at 8:30 PM…though the easy access to massive cakes and jelly beans may not have helped things.
Travelling with you is a privilege…it’s also a big responsibility. But you’re so darned cute.
BootRoom Book Review
From Madani’s Best Game by Fran Pintadara illustrated by Raquel Catalina
To save room in my backpack (and also because I’m forgetful), we didn’t bring bed time books along with us on this trip. So we turned to the thing that all humans turn to for answers these days: a smart phone. Soon enough, the St Paul library gave us access to several nice books including one appropriate for this blog Madani’s Best Game
The story of a star player in an anonymous neighborhood was a fine bit of soccer lore. It had clear pictures of the action, a great sense of the role of a team, and an appropriate level of drama building up to the final match.
But really the story was less about soccer, and more about a kid’s love for his mother. Much as you guys like a soccer story, you love to love your mom.
Players of the Weeks
Jessy Bennet must be acknowledged. The midfielder has managed to pilot les bleus to certainty and security in the second league, which has been in short supply since his departure after 2021.
Also worth noting is Ernesto Reyes, whose leadership and defense has continued to help Oaxaca out of their traditional funks.
Standings
The Super Cup did a real number on Punjab’s position atop the table. It can happen when you get twice as many defeats in one span as you had in the past three months. As a result, Rosenborg, returned to the top spot this year as both the men and women are undefeated in the league so far this young season. (The one loss was in the cup.) Meanwhile, the difficulty in getting decisive results has taken its toll on Freiburg and Vozdovac.
There is no joy in Freiburg, a collection of globally elite talents from one of the wealthiest clubs in European history beat them handily. Le sigh. At least we gave them a pretty good showing.
Livingston 2 – 1 Ross County
While County might feel duly frustrated that they had the best chances and came out with the worse result. But their shots were far wilder than Livvie’s and even if you have great chances if you don’t hit them toward goal it doesn’t matter. Keith Watson, Jordan White and Eamonn Brophy could all use some target practice.
Cukariki 3 – 1 Vozdovac
Borisav Burmaz’s early penalty gave some hope for a big road win, but Cukariki came back alive to stymie the Dragon’s fire
Sochaux 1 – 0 Grenoble (M)
Vincent Hognon sent out a mostly second choice side and paid the price as the reserve defenders looked overworked, and the reserve attackers couldn’t break through. They nearly held out for a draw but a late Sochaux goal sealed their fate
Emelec 1 – 0 Tecnico Universitario
They had to wait a week but Emelec got another win. And once again the man in the middle of it all was Miller Bolaños, whose penalty made all the difference.
Colorado 1 – 2 Minnesota (M)
Matches against Colorado always involve a surprising degree of drama, but this one was fun. After falling behind early in the second half, Hassani Dotson’s heads up play won a hand ball penalty that got things level. And Miguel Tapias rose up to deliver a terrific deflected header to snatch a late win!
Freiburg 0 – 1 Hoffenheim (F)
Hoffenheim crashed Freiburg’s big party in the Dreamstadion. It was particularly painful to give up the game on a 90th minute goal when the Frauen’s backline had done so much to keep the game even until then. Samantha Steuerwald, Marie Muller and Lisa Karl were excellent, but couldn’t do enough to leave with an overdue victory.
Mainz 1 – 1 Freiburg (M)
Late goals are becoming something of a problem for Freiburg. This time Ritsu Doan’s opener could well have sealed the victory, especially when five minutes of added time in the second half came. But, in a bonus 6th minute Mainz got their equalizer against an admittedly spent backline of Ginter, Gulde and Kubler, and sent Freiburg home unhappy. (A draw on the road is enough to keep them clicking along near the top of the table, but it’s another round of “what could have been).
Legon Cities 2 – 0 Aduana Stars
Be still my beating heart, the Royals won a game! And not just any game: a game against league leading Aduana Stars!! Micheal Otou got the brace, including a penalty kick, and got Legon their first win in 6 tries (and only their third win this year out of 12 tries–including one cup match)
Mineros 3 – 6 Alebrijes
This was absolutely one of the wildest games of this or any year. You know it’s a crazy time when there are two goals scored before the announcers can even look at the starting line-ups. Cristian Canozales racked up four goals (and might have gotten more if it wasn’t for a missed offside call). Announcers went so far as to call him the Colombian Mbappe and honestly…they don’t seem wrong.
News & Notes
March Madness Corner
A purple upset only you boys saw coming (from NY Times)
During this month there’s a special additional competition that’s impossible to ignore. Even if you only have time to watch one sporting event, you can’t escape March Madness and College Basketball.
Given that your grandpa was a college hoopster (in the 70s…at a tiny Minnesota school) it’s his favorite time of year, and we pass that on to you gladly. This year, in the time honored tradition, each boy (and momma) picked teams to win: Alex favored Tigers and Knights, Owen picked anyone with purple, and Kristina listened to you both. As a result, you are all doing better than the rest of the family.
Cookie, player of the month in our hearts
International Break upcoming
There will be fewer games than usual next week as most leagues take a break for international team matches. Mostly these are far flung friendlies that we’ll check in on if we’re so inclined, but there’s one special match. The US Men will play Grenada and their leader, our old friend, Regan Charles Cook. Cookie has been solid as an occasional starter and frequent sub in Belgium, so we’ll be hoping he can turn some more heads against the regional heavyweights (even if those regional heavyweights represent us).
An Overdue Addition
For a long time I’ve said that I don’t see why Major League Soccer looks only to Europe and South America for their big players. There are, I’ve reasoned, plenty of great players in Africa and Asia who could do just as well as the players from more traditional soccer nations. For proof, consider Bongokhule Hlongwane…and now his potential partner in Minnesota United’s attack South Korean Jeong Sang-Bin. (You may see his name written in another order, but as Koreans prefer to start with their family name, I’m going to respect that and repeat it here). At just 20 years old, he’s an exciting young addition to Minnesota and should offer a much needed goal scorer (knock on all the wood)
Player of the Week
This is another hard one, Michael Otou lifted Legon Cities out of the relegation scene. Cristian Canozales poured in the goals in one of the wildest games of the year. But we’re going to give it to someone who probably could have won recently, and just leave Michael and Cristian in the overdue camp for future awards. Miller Bolaños seems determined to stand above the pack in goal scoring. Luka Macjen and Juan Mera certainly haven’t made it easy for him, but if he continues to contribute all of the goals that Emelec gets, it will get a lot closer a lot faster than any of us anticipated.
Standings
We’re noticing some pretty stark separation here. Pubjab, Minnesota, and Emelec continue to dominate, but the middle of the table lags far, far behind them. Why? We have no earthly idea, so feel free to leave irrational conjectures in the comments area below!
MacKenzie's Boot Room 