Tag: Camilla Xu

What’d we Miss?

What’d we Miss?

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

It was a regular year, until it wasn’t.

Not in a world shaking, business shuttering, economy crashing, global pandemic way.

But it was a hefty change in the way we lived and the work that was needed.

We bought a house.

My waking hours shifted from leisurely repair projects punctuated by writing inspiration, to an incessant to do list of packing, repacking, scheduling, painting, rescheduling and suddenly recalling undone tasks.

I had hoped that when we moved in, I could return to writing more. I neglected to notice how the minor house issues you put off become a lot more vital once you move in.

I’m under no illusions now. This project sits firmly to the side on my list of hustles (in the non-profitable category). But I remain dedicated to that idea, that if you show the world how you play, it will show the world who you are.

If we look at and cheer for eleven teams around the world, it can show us how to live. This year, we cheered more than we watched. But we can still see how to live.

How did they do, while life forced us to make other plans? What can we learn from it all…here are their results and our thoughts

Rosenborg

Women’s Record: 9 W-2 D-6 L// 30 GF-20 GA

Men’s Record: 16 W-4 D- 5 L//75-GF 38-GA

Story: as has been the routine, Rosenborg has all kinds of attacking strength. They spent most of the summer pouring in goals. Émilie Nautnes and Sara Kanutte Forness led one line while mid season acquisition Casper Tengstedt set the other one on fire (15 goals in 14 matches…yikes!)

But each side also faced some serious challenges. The men couldn’t seem to hold a defensive shape, scoring and ceding goals in droves en route to another distant third place finish. Meanwhile the troll kvinner got knocked down by Real Madrid’s ladies side and seemed to end an otherwise stellar season in a rotten funk losing three of their final four to miss out on another crack at the Champions League next year.

Lesson: balance yourself, neither your strengths nor your struggles define you.

Minnesota

Women’s Record: 13 W-1 D-1 L//39 GF-10 GA

Men’s Record 9 W-4 D-9 L//34 GF – 41 GA

Story: Locally we had some absolutely marvelous moments this summer. I say that not only because I had you boys with me at a few matches, but because the quality of the games was superb.

For a stretch, no one was playing better soccer than Minnesota United. Dayne St. Clair was stopping everything hit his way, Emmanuel Reynoso was connecting with everyone around him. Robin Lod had made me look utterly foolish by becoming someone people around the world were eyeing hopefully.

It all came undone of course. The Loons ended up squeaking into the playoffs and then bowing out quickly, but it was still wonderful while it lasted.

Likewise the first season for Minnesota Aurora was practically perfect. The team went unbeaten throughout the regular season and combined superb defense with a dynamite attack. Sarah Fuller anchored the defense in the goal, and Morgan Turner poured in the goals, and the team became a vital part of the larger community connecting players, fans, coaches, and staff. Even though it ended in defeat at the final hurdle (seems to be a theme for our favorites), it was a marvelous way to spend a summer.

(As an added bonus, the youngest member of Aurora, Bayliss Flynn, signed to join the Montana Grizzlies, so she is the second athlete to play for two of our favorites)

Lesson: There’s no place like home.

Freiburg

Men’s Record 15 W – 5 D – 3 L// 42 GF- 22 GA

Women’s Record 6 W – 1 D – 3 L// 25 GF- 14 GA

Story: Janina Minge has emerged as a leading innovator offensively for die Freiburg Frauen. But, they have continued to lack a decisive element that would vault them up into the Bundesliga’s top tier alongside Wolfsburg, Bayern, or Frankfurt. (Maybe they could use some of Minnesota Aurora’s squad…just saying)

But that’s exactly where the men’s team has found a new stride. Christian Stretch’s steady presence has been a model for players who bring out their best every week, even with an extra competition in the Europa League to challenge them, the Griffins are having another tremendous season, with Mathias Ginter and Christian Günter leading the defense, and newly adopted Ritsu Doan joining Vincenzo Grifo to lead the attack.

Lesson: much as we want the shiniest trophies, being your best, regardless of the result can be the greatest reward

Round Glass Punjab

Record: 4 W- 1D-1L//7 GF-5 GA

Story: While most of the world turned their attention to the World Cup in Qatar, Punjab’s season got started, but with a different look than usual. Gone is last year’s dominant scorer Kurtiss Guthrie (off to play in Scotland against Ross County), in are a host of eastern european veterans. Gone are the run of British coches, in is Greek manager Staikos Vergetis. But best of all, Nepali keeper Kiran Limbu Chempjong (though, he hasn’t been as unbeatable this year as he was in his previous run with the club).

Still the special winter season on the subcontinent has a long way to go before we’re done, so we’ll sit back and enjoy what is rather than wonder about what was.

Lesson: Whatever else you focus on, life carries on.

Alebrijes de Oaxaca

Record: 4 W-9 D-5 L//22 GF-18 GA

Story: Alebrijes closed out the spring season with a sterling showing. They seemed to have everything well handled in attack and defense. But then they were undone in the playoffs, and come the fall campaign seemed to have lost all their mojo. The departure of Juan Portales made the defense less stable, and the crucial finishing touch to turn draws into victories. And then they lost in the playoffs.

Lesson: what seem like your best days and hardest days all end in the same place.

Vozdovac

Record: 9 W-4 D-6 L//17 GF-22 GA

Story: The Red Dragons continue to methodically build their team and their identity the hard way. Match by match, game by game, step by step. After saying goodbye to a raft of their regular talents, the team got significantly younger during the offseason, bringing in a raft of under 21 talent to nurture and grow on their own. Even though the team still hasn’t hit the top of the table (thanks again Partizan and Red Star), they are consistently a team to challenge you, and Milos Pantovic has proven himself (at only 20 years old) to be a dynamic scorer. (I’m still hoping for some more break out showings by Bogdan Jocic, and Borisav Burmaz.)

Lesson: Hope is a thing with dragon wings.

Montana

Record: 7 W-7 D-6 L//25 GF-17 GA

Story: The years we’ve kept track on this blog have been a consistent study in the excellence of the Griz. So much so that it started to seem like a forgone conclusion. The Griz were certainly prepped to bring another conference title home after holding their own against non-conference opponents (including ties against much more prestigious schools including Creighton and close defeats to Pitt and Portland).

But every year is different, and it seemed as though the other teams found a path through the vaunted Griz defense, or at least that there was more pressure than usual on Camilla Xu. Maysa Walters and Delaney Schorr were a solid goal scoring combination, but ultimately there was more depth and diversity in attack from Northern Arizona and Idaho (whose goalies also managed to stop more shots than Xu). The Griz did what they do well, other teams just did it better.

Lesson: Game Recognizes Game.

Grenoble

Women’s Record: 4 W-1 D-5 L//18 GF-13 GA

Men’s Record: 7 W-5 D-3 L//16 GF-12 GA

Story: The records don’t tell the whole story for the Alpiners. Nicolas Delpine’s side continued to showcase the skills and talents of Sherly Jeudy week in and week out, but (as we’ve seen before) the defense has been more suspect, giving up about three goals per game. But, things have turned around well the last couple of weeks and the team heads into the break with two wins in a row (three if they win in the Cup this Sunday)

Meanwhile, the men dusted themselves off after a lackluster previous season and are well positioned to, once again, put themselves in contention for promotion during the season’s second half. The team has been on a seven match unbeaten run with a trio of new attackers leading the charge. Pape Meissa Ba, Jordan Tell, and Abdoulie Sayang are all new to the squad in the year 2022, and they have led the scoring. But the team has been Matthias Phaeton, the Guadeloupe player who has featured in every match as a sub or a starter and has bopped everywhere there’s grass in pursuit of the game. Add this to our beloved backline squad and you have a strong team that may just get stronger in the spring.

Lesson: Never underestimate the element of surprise

Legon Cities

Record 3 W-8 D-5 L//8 GF-8 GA

Story: I love Legon as much as I love Nkatekwan, and as you boys seem to have inherited my zeal for all things peanut buttery, I think you’ll know that’s a lot of love. Legon loves Jonah Attaquye as well. He’s only 22 and he has fast become their talisman. And yet, Jonah can’t do it all on his own. The increasing pressure of carrying the load for the team, distributing the ball to scorers who struggle to connect and running the show. This season, he and defender Suleman Mohammed have missed a total of 5 minutes across all their games.

Lesson: Love is Love, but dependency is dangerous.

Ross County

Record: 7 W-4 D-10 L//25 GF-31 GA

Story: A year ago, the fall campaign was anything but kind to the Staggies. The team looked to be every bit as shaky as it was when it faced relegation, but then the ship was righted and they got their best final table position in about a decade.

But that was with Reagan Charles Cook playing chef du’jour. With his departure for Belgium, County had to try to fill in with a raft of other players to match his same creativity and finishing. While midfielder Yan Dhada brings an impressive resume and strong creativity, we’ve yet to see either Jordy Hiluwa or Jordan White dominate the game the way Regan did. So it’s a lot like last season…but that turned out pretty well so lets be patient.

Lesson: Enjoy the comfort food of home cooking while it lasts.

Emelec

Women’s Record: 1 W-1 D-4 L//4 GF-11 GA

Men’s Record: 7 W-5 D-5 L//23 GF-17 GA

Story: Los Bombillos and Las Electricas had a little less productive campaign than in prior years. The goals seemed to dry up and there was no clear answer in goal. Laliz Tenorio, the woman who is older than your Uncle Simon and twice as powerful, led the attack (as best she could). Unfortunately, things were so ineffective, that Emelec was dropped out of the top Women’s League in Ecuador and will now need to earn promotion again. I’ve been looking for where I can find coverage of the amateur women’s leagues in Ecuador, but I may not be able to find it…hopefully we’ll see Las Electricas again soon.

Likewise, the men who offered such dominance in prior years, could not break through to the upper echelon of the league. In the past they might have been able to pull some surprises against opponents in knock-out stages, but this year it was only the champion of each half of the season. The team did break through into the knock out stages of the big continental battle of the Copa Libertadores, bowing out to former Brazilian boss “Hulk”. Even though his career in Guyaquil looks to be over, Sebastian Rodriguez closed out his three year career with the club as a leader and definitive goal scorer. And as ever, Romario Caiceido continues to be the air raid master in his dangerous balls.

Lesson: Part of the journey is the end, and that’s beautiful too.

Standings

There are two more weeks of relevant matches, but the standings are pretty clearly set. Grenoble and Legon Cities could reach the mid-table and Punjab could climb as high as 3rd. But Rosenborg BK has set themselves up for their second Sippy Cup in three years.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Rosenborg BK–b3611171.862.231.2
Minnesota–b288151.801.841.27
Freiburg–b2614141.702.411.54
Punjab11571.651.611.48
Alebrijes–b141481.561.280.83
Vozdovac–b149121.461.031.14
Montana–b7761.401.250.85
Grenoble Foot2110211.401.251.19
Legon Cities1113101.351.000.62
Ross County139181.201.131.45
Emelec–b1713180.671.501.27
Table Updated 12/15/22
b–Team is between seasons
Week 2: Alebrijes Alright, Alright, Alright

Week 2: Alebrijes Alright, Alright, Alright

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Results

Alebrijes 2 – 0 Cancun FC

It sure looks like Alebrijes got off to a stronger start this year than in previous campaigns we’ve watched (it might help that Cancun was the rare team that had a worst fall than Oaxaca did). Newly permanent member of the team Juan Antonio Portales kicked off a full season of captaincy with an ironclad defense and two strong goals. Ernesto Reyes led the way with a beautiful blast from well outside the box early on and Miguel Vallejo dropped another on a break away during stoppage time to seal it. Here’s hoping this is a sign of a better season to come.

https://youtu.be/TFUkJoeKleQ

Freiburg 2 – 2 Arminia Bielefeld [M]

For most of the first half Freiburg looked the better side, but Arminia Bielefeld made a competent comeback against reserve keeper Benjamin Uphoff (in place of COVID positive Mark Flekken)

Grenoble 0 – 1 Auxerre [M]

Grenoble’s return to the field was a lot like their last four outings. It was a loss, and the offense could not hit the target. Over those 5 losses they’ve only scored twice…..

Grenoble 2 – 3 [Pen] Rodez [F-Cup]

The Women’s Coupe de France is a big battle bringing together teams from every corner of the Francophone world. The ladies of Grenoble seemed to be in good shape after a 7-0 dominant showing against Hellicourt. They showed up well against Rodez the top team in their division, despite losing Tiphaine Brissonet to a red card early in the match. Ultimately they were undone at the penalty spot and out of the competition.

Dreams FC 0 – 1 Legon Cities FC

Legon Cities got another road win, this time against a scuffling Dreams side who may well have deserved better. Obour Adu was everywhere on his debut for the Royals getting both the winning goal, and staggering the side post with a near miss. In between events, the team even stood up to a penalty kick for their hosts and walked away with all three points.

Tampico Madiero 1 – 1 Alebrijes

Oaxaca got off to another great start against Tampico (the previously named Jaibos). Left back Edson Santos sent in a great cross that was met by a surprising header from Josue Gomez to put them up. But from then on the team had to bunker down and absorb another attack every few minutes while getting nothing going the other way. Ernesto Reyes in particular had some great stops, but also a terrible bout of positioning that allowed the equalizer.

News & Notes

Extra Accolades

The Griz Soccer team already has a bundle of awards from the last year, so let’s add a couple more on to the pile!

The Griz were one of only 13 teams in the top tier of college soccer given the Team Ethics and Sportsmanship award, in no small part because they managed to dominate the league while having a paltry 13 cards against them. As this is a teachable-moment, parent focused website, we are impressed with this award and say, as we always do: GO GRIZ!

As if that weren’t enough, there was also an extra nod given to Griz keeper, Camellia Xu (Whose name I’ve been botching all year…sorry!). The British Columbia Native was invited to the Canadian Under 20 International Team training camp. It’s the first step on the long road to the senior national team …like Dayne St Clair! Basically we love Canadian goalies.

Comings and Goings

The big new addition this week was Minnesota United bringing in South African international Bongokuhle Hlongwane (nicknamed Sanisa). His signing was greeted with cheers by desperate Loons fans looking for another striker, and with cheers from South African fans who are equally thrilled to have a promising young player in line to show his skill in an international league.

Also on board this week: the Loons drafted St. Johns University product Tani Oluwaseyi, and Gustavo Canto, the Argentine Center Back on his way to Emelec. Meanwhile, Ross County brought in a loanee Declan Drysdale, and Vozdovac brought on striker Aleksandar Cirkovic who is still just 20 but has already played in Austria and Spain.

But with everyone coming there are some going as well, Ross County said goodbye to loanee Harry Clark, but they’ll see him again soon enough when the face Hibernian in Edinburgh. Rosenborg also said some farewells to their bench depth, Besim Serbecic and Gjermund Åsen.

African Cup of Nations

There’s always a thrill competing for your country. Usually it happens during the summer when the leagues are quiet, but Africa’s biggest contest happens in the winter. Grenoble has three players on different squads in Cameroon: Joseph Mendes (Guinea Bissau), Mamadou Diallo (Guinea), and Willy Semedo (Cape Verde).

Player of the Week

Getting points from two matches has finally broken the PoW drought for Alebrijes de Oaxaca. While Ernesto Reyes had the most appearances on the highlight reel, we’re going to look at the captain who helped organize the defense and set up a strong showing for the southern Mexico side. We’re happy to name Juan Antonio Portales, the new captain of the squad and stalwart defender as this week’s Player of the Week.

Standings Update

After languishing at the bottom of the table last year, Alebrijes tops the 2022 Edition two weeks into the year.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Alebrijes de Oaxaca1102.01.50.5
Legon Cities1011.50.50.5
Freiburg0101.02.02.0
Grenoble0020.01.02.0
University of Montana–b——————
Rosenborg BK–b——————
Minnesota United–b——————
FK Vozdovac——————
Ross County——————
Emelec–b——————
Punjab FC–b——————
Table Updated 1/12/22
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, January 12th

Thursday, January 13th

Friday, January 14th

Dortmund v. Freiburg [M]

Saturday, January 15th

Guingamp v. Grenoble [M]

Sunday, January 16th

LePuy v. Grenoble [F]

Monday, January 17th

Legon Cities FC v. Bechem United

Tuesday, January 18th

Ross County v. Motherwell

64. Forces of Change, Changing your Force

64. Forces of Change, Changing your Force

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

A few weeks ago, while driving into work, I heard a summary of political philosophy that neatly captured what I see in society, soccer, and myself.

Put simply: everyone wants to act in response to problems we see. Progressives want to do something while conservatives want to stop something in progress or undo something that’s been done.

Dear Boys,

I’m not about to pretend which point of view I prefer (particularly in politics–hint it starts with a P and ends with “rogressive”.) But as the pundits pointed out both instincts can lead to unintended consequences.

Je pense le meme Adrien (from the Athletic)

Start with my progressive view. Like a lot of folks I want to see my teams make some changes when they struggle. That’s when I start begging for Alebrijes to switch their system, or for the Loons to sign a big striker, or for Ross County to bring in a new coach.

But those changes that many in fan bases yearn for don’t yield immediate results and fail as often as they succeed. Alebrijes might not have the players to make any system work. Adrien Hunou might not find the goal for a couple months. Your team may hire a racist…etc. etc.

The conservative approach is no less fraught. The glory days are so enticing that it’s natural to want to go back. Bring back Jessy Benet in Grenoble, increase the focus on the men’s team at Rosenborg, or undo the appointment of the manager with a few weeks under his belt (see: Tottenham Hotspur).

These too assume that everything can return to the way they were (despite the fact that context, and surroundings, and everything else has changed around them). Jessy’s got a new club. Rosenborg aren’t the league titans they once were. Tottenham’s squad isn’t the fresh faced world beaters they were a few years ago.

This is not possible

The same is true at a personal level.

The more I try to make things the way that I want them to be, the more I struggle, grapple, and grow frustrated.

Whether it’s control in the classroom, or getting you boys to brush your teeth when I want you to, the more I try to do/undo something, the less likely I am to do anything differently.

But, when I accept that things are the way they are, and my role is to bring my full self to them, the more I add to the space, add to the experience, and change it for the better.

Being present with you is so much more meaningful for all of us (and makes brushing fun). Sending love and concern into my classroom yields much more than exerting control over the situation.

On the pitch too, bringing your full self into a space can create a better, more valuable experience for everyone. Think of Coach Citowicki in Missoula, whose manners and approach have given kids at a smaller school professional opportunities and enabled a transition from one generation to the next (see Claire Howard and Camila Xu).

When you are fully present rather than distracted by what you want to make happen, you find a pleasure in what is. The Griz can see that Big Sky titles are beautiful themselves. Freiburg’s loyalty and appreciation of the understated Christian Streich has built the environment for their best season in years.

We get caught up talking about and fixating on the forces of change: how the world ought to be and what tools to make it so. We want to be a force for change in the world. But hard as it is, I believe we ought to resist that temptation, and instead of being a force for change, change your force to quiet grace.

Weeks 45: Celebrate Good Times, Come ON!

Weeks 45: Celebrate Good Times, Come ON!

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Results & Recaps

Alebrijes 2 – 1 Correcaminos

Great day in the morning Oaxaca won a game without the need for late heroics. Just a very, very, very fortunate bounce on an otherwise irrelevant free kick. [Sorry fortunate bounces, you can’t win player of the week.]

Montana Grizzlies 1 – 0 Sacramento State Hornets

The Griz kicked off conference tournament play with a stout defensive effort. Camila Xu stood tall, the back line shut down the hornets and all it took was one quality ball for Charley Boone to play the hero and get her first goal in “like ten years”. The (admittedly, late) win took the Griz one step closer to a second title of the year (more on that in a bit)

Vozdovac 1 – 1 Cukaricki

Cukaricki continues to lead the “Best team not named Partizan/Red Star” competition, so a draw for the dragons feels like a solid showing. All the more because Milos Milosovic scored the equalizer as part of an organized second half comeback following a first half that saw the defense split open like pumpkin on Halloween and amid an utter downpour.

Emelec 2 – 0 Mushuc Runa [M]

Los bombillos came through again to keep up the pressure on Independuente del Valle with Alexis Zapata crushing a gorgeous goal to put them ahead, and Pedro Ortiz standing tall in goal to keep it that way. The top two teams will meet in two weeks with trophies likely on the line.

Bayern Munich 2 – 1 Freiburg [M]

To be honest, we knew that Freiberg’s and beaten the streak would end. We had plenty of reason to suspect it would happen here. And hey we were right.

Freiburg likely won’t be standing atop the league in May, but their effective showings against both Bayern and Dortmund suggests that Europe really is within reach.

Legon Cities 3 – 2 Real Tamale

For the first time in their current incarnation, Legon led the league! (On goal difference…for a couple hours…because most teams had yet to play twice) Still it was great to see Jonah Attuquaye’s penalty seal the deal (and Nathaniel Akwah’s free kick blast just because, well, it’s freaking awesome).

https://youtu.be/lApW6tb4UI8

Brann 2 – 2 Rosenborg [M]

Erland Dahl Reitan set up both the opening goal, an invaluable second half equalizer, and some strong defensive squeezing as Rosenborg had surprising difficulty with relegation bound Brann.

Grenoble 1 – 0 Dunkerke [M]

Loïc Nestor remains an indefatigable Mr Grenoble. While many long term teammates have left, Loïc stays strong. While a dozen other players tried Dunkerke’s defense and blasted away at goal, Loic was the one who made the difference. In addition to shuttling back on the wing to stymie attacks and, in this case, streaking forward to score the match winner in stoppage time.

Kolbotn 1 – 2 Rosenborg [F]

After a few weeks in hiding Julie Blakstad struck back with a vengeance Sunday. She scored both goals in Rosenborg’s last road game this year. At times it seemed like Kolbotn’s defense was more of a help than any sterling offense, but we’ll take every win we can get

Nice 4 – 1 Grenoble Foot [F]

To put it mildly, this wasn’t Grenoble’s day. The match report from my preferred Grenoble soccer blog highlighted an assault on goal by players with first division experience. So the loss was very much sensed. Sherly Jeudy got another late goal (this one, very much a consolation)

Rangers 4 – 2 Ross County

The Stags weren’t terribly likely to get two wins in a row when they had to face reigning Scottish champs Rangers. Still Joseph Hungbo showed his class, Regan Charles Cook reaffirmed his, and Harry Paton got a solid assist as well.

Turbine Potsdam 2 – 1 SC Freiburg

Despite an opening goal from (who else) Hasret Kayicki, Freiburg’s Frauen couldn’t keep up with Potsdam and continued their inconsistent form.

Montana Grizzlies 1 – 0 Weber State Wildcats *Big Sky Conference Championship*

The Griz were a little fortunate that Weber State knocked out hosts, regular season champs and the only big sky squad to Best them Northern Colorado. But that’s how tournaments go, you get some good luck and some bad.

The best luck for the team came on a couple of loose balls. Just like in the semi-finals Camilla Xu’s long ball worked well to set up an attack, and the quick overlap from Zoe Transtrum to Jaden Griggs did all the work.

Best of all you boys got to watch it together, and celebrate with one voice.

LA Galaxy 3 – 3 Minnesota United

It was a wild one in Southern California on Sunday night as the Loons managed to get a vital point to seal their spot in the MLS playoffs. Adrien Hunou and Robin Lod put the Loons in control early on, but the Galaxy made all the adjustments necessary to come back and take the lead. Luck was on the Loons’ side as an own goal gave them the last boost to keep a spot in the playoffs (and send both LA teams home for the winter)

Cancun FC 1 – 2 Alebrijes de Oaxaca

Alebrijes can head into the offseason with their heads held high, finishing with a pair of their best performances all season. Andre Alcaraz had to withstand a bevy of shots and did so with grace despite the back line giving him precious little cover. The goals had a flavor that had been lacking in the season that was with Miguel Vallejo’s free kick and Lizandro Echeverria’s excellent positioning doing the duty for the team’s goals. Getting 9 points off their last six matches, boosted Oaxaca’s final standings (but they still need a lot of help/losing from other teams) to avoid a wooden spoon award.

News & Notes

Boys 2 – 0 Uncle Simon

At Owen’s birthday party you guys dominated your Uncle Simon, pelting him with leaves every chance you got. Well played to both of you. And still he and Auntie E got you a very noisy, very fun, combination soccer goal and basketball hoop…so you may have beaten him, but be still gets the better of me.

Tournament Time Again

The NCAA tournament is one of the most magical times of the year, and to have two in one year is extra fun. This time, the Griz won’t be jetting across the country to face one of the toughest teams in the country, they’ll just head over the Rockies. The Griz get another power conference team in the Washington State Cougars, one that’s in the top 20 in the country. But the Griz have also notched their highest winning total in 20 years, why not repeat that 20 year cycle with a repeat win in the tournament (a win that came, conveniently enough, against Washington State).

Another International Weekend

Teams around the world are inching ever closer to the final rounds of World Cup qualification. This week should see the end of group play in Africa and Europe, with several teams inking their spots in Qatar next year, and several more heading back to the drawing board. We’ll be keeping an extra close eye on players plying their trade for country and perhaps if Nico Schlotterbeck and Christian Gunter can become part of a German team that’s already punched their ticket for the biggest stage of them all.

Player of the Week

Having already heaped the praise on Camilla Xu, lets make a little room for Erland Dahl Reitan. Who not only supported the attack this week but has been a vital component in one of Norway’s best defenses all year. (Sloppy results this last week not withstanding, Reitan deserves a bit of recognition here.

Standings Update

It is officially academic. Even if both Rosenborg sides win all of their games and the Griz crash out in Pullman, Washington, the Griz have enough points to hold on to the top spot in our league. We’ll bestow the trophy officially in a few weeks, but it’s all over now but the crying. Speaking of crying, Alebrijes’ hopes for avoiding the bottom of our league officially rest on a further collapse by Ross County now that their 2021 is wrapped up.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana22172.181.60.6
Rosenborg BK367132.052.31.2
Emelec2610121.831.61.2
Grenoble2010171.491.21.2
Punjab FC–b7461.4711.20.9
Freiburg219191.4691.71.6
Minnesota United1310111.441.21.3
Legon Cities127111.431.21.0
FK Vozdovac1110131.261.11.4
Ross County115191.091.31.6
Alebrijes–b714121.061.21.6
Table Updated 11/10/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, November 10th

Thursday, November 11th

Friday, November 12th

Saturday, November 13th

Rosenborg BK v. Lyn Football [F]

Washington State Cougars v. Montana Grizzlies

FC St. Cyr v. Grenoble Foot [M–Cup]

Sunday, November 14th

SC Freiburg v. Werder Bremen [F]

Monday, November 15th

Tuesday, November 16th

Legon Cities FC v. Great Olympics

Weeks 44: Spooky Scary

Weeks 44: Spooky Scary

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Results & Recaps

Haugesund 0 – 0 Rosenborg [M]

I never know what to say about goalless draws…good on ya for trying, I guess?

Dundee FC 0 – 5 Ross County

Well that shut me up quick. County buried their bottom of the table rivals, with Regan Charles Cook continuing to explode into form, and an absolute blast from Joseph Hungbo making all the highlight reels. It was County’s first win of the campaign, and not a moment too soon.

Vancouver Whitecaps 2 – 1 Minnesota United

The loss dropped the Loons below the playoff line during competitive season for the first time in 3 years. There’s plenty of blame to go around: Tyler Miller looks exhausted, Michael Boxall had an uncharacteristic lapse, the midfield plan of “Bebelo or bust” continues to run dry.

Alebrijes 0 – 0 Atalante

It’s rough when a goalless draw feels like an accomplishment. But…here we are.

Freiburg 3 – 1 Greuther Furth [M]

It’s not been easy for Gruether in their maiden Bundesliga campaign. They didn’t have much chance in this one, Freiburg took advantage of each mistake and cruised to a home victory behind Woo Yong Jeong, Lucas Holer, and Vincent Grifo’s great showing (both on offense and defense).

https://youtu.be/lUlY6abKVDc

Rosenborg 1 – 3 Lillestrom SK [M]

An early goal came completely undone as LSK manhandled Rosenborg in the second half. Normally reliable Goalie Andre Hansen had one of his worst matches of the year and Rosenborg has to start figuring out their plan for the final month of their campaign.

Caen 0 – 1 Grenoble [M]

Adrien Monfray managed both his usual solid defensive showing as well as a decisive goal on the cusp of half time. But this match had the clear cut benefit of a strong Grenoble game plan, blasting the box with crosses and wearing down Caen’s defense until Yoric Ravet found Monfray for the winner.

Ross County v. Hibernian

A covid outbreak in the Hibernian dressing room gave the Staggies an unscheduled break. Thank goodness

Guayaquil City 0 – 1 Emelec [M]

Guyaquil is clearly a beautiful navy blue after Emelec won another Derby match. The potent attack continues to harass all opponents, and Joao Rojas delivered a delightful goal from the set up by Alejandro Cabeza

Hearts of Oak 0 – 0 Legon Cities

A new Ghanaian season started in typical Royals fashion…with a goalless draw. However this one comes with the added perk of doing it against local rivals and regional giants Hearts of Oak. New keeper Eric Ofori Antwi made a major difference in keeping it tight.

Grenoble 4 – 0 Merignac [F]

I’ll always have a soft spot for the fighting Squirrels of Merignac, but let’s give it up for the ladies of Grenoble who utterly dominated their opponents. Andrea Compper got two more goals to boost her tally on the year, and Sherly Jeudy got another as well, while Romane Pilot got a pair of assists.

Vozdovac 1 – 1 TSC Backa Topola

Nikola Vujnovic continues to do as much as any one man CAN do to make the Dragons relevant in Serbia’s duopoly of a league (heck, even within Belgrade). He’s been in great form and blasted home another strong break away goal here. But help at either end of the pitch sure would help.

Minnesota United 2 – 1 Sporting Kansas City

While I helped you boys get ready for Halloween (or rather, while I helped Spiderman and a Dragon gather candy) the Loons wrapped up their home season. As has become tradition, they sent a dozen shots towards goal but only barely eked out a win. Franco Frangapane got the honors of inciting what will (barring a shocking turn of events) be the last Wonderwall of the year.

News & Notes

The Days are long…oh so very long…

Your mom is in the thick of concert season, my colleagues are waylaid with injuries and covid quarantines and we also have to do all the things for you boys. Knowing that if/when you read this, this time will be long gone, I hope you know that before we do anything else in the day, we marvel at the joy of just hearing you play, sing, laugh and be silly. (We would also really appreciate it if you’d save silliness for before and after we change clothes)

Yet the years are short…

It’s officially November which means many more teams are about to start their season break. Alebrijes watch will mercifully end this next week, and the Griz will either start cramming for finals or await their spot in the final tournament. The Loons need some help to make the playoffs, but Rosenborg’s two sides and Emelec will keep vying for position in our family table (more to come on that). It’s strange but true, it’s all coming together sooner than you think.

Players of the Weeks

There are many strikers in great form of late, but let’s turn the clock back and shout out Regan Charles Cook, who has been a treat to watch for Ross County and has buoyed the Staggies as they fight for their Premiership status in Scotland.

Standings Update

Rosenborg missed a great chance with Montana idle to gain ground in the race for the MacKenzie Cup, the two lackluster showings let the Griz grow their lead without even stepping on the field. Meanwhile, Grenoble’s sweep vaulted them up three spots and gave them a positive goal differential again.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana20172.181.60.7
Rosenborg BK356132.062.31.2
Emelec2510121.811.61.2
Freiburg219171.531.71.5
Grenoble1910161.491.21.1
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Minnesota United139111.451.21.2
Legon Cities117111.381.11.0
FK Vozdovac119131.281.11.4
Ross County115181.121.31.5
Alebrijes513120.941.11.7
Table Updated 11/3/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, November 3rd

Ross County v. Hibernian

Alebrijes v. Correcaminos

Thursday, November 4th

Friday, November 5th

Montana Grizzlies v. Sacramento State

Saturday, November 6th

*HAPPY SECOND BIRTHDAY OWEN!*

Bayern Munich v. Freiburg [M]

Legon Cities v. Real Tamale

Vozdovac v. Cukaricki

Brann v. Rosenborg [M]

Grenoble v. Dunkerke [M]

Sunday, November 7th

Kolbotn v. Rosenborg [F]

Nice v. Grenoble Foot [F]

Rangers v Ross County

Turbine Potsdam v. SC Freiburg

*Big Sky Conference Championship*

Emelec v. Mushuc Runa [M]

LA Galaxy v. Minnesota United

Monday, November 8th

Tuesday, November 9th

Cancun FC v. Alebrijes

Weeks 42 & 43: Vacation Situation

Weeks 42 & 43: Vacation Situation

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

We went to Lusen, Minnesota for a family vacation, and, as such, I put much of my other writing on hold to be present with you boys. But, for the odd ducks who visit this site for summaries of action from Missoula to Mohali, well, here you go with two weeks of details

Results & Recaps

Rosenborg BK 2 – 1 LSK Kvinner [F]

Klepp 0 – 3 Rosenborg BK [F]

Rosenborg 2 – 2 Valerenga [M]

Rosenborg 4 – 1 Sandefjord [M]

It was a solid showing for Rosenborg these weeks, going undefeated on both sides of the training grounds. Stefano Vecchia continued to be red hot, showing that he earned player of the month honors last month (and maybe this one too), while Rosenborg sewed up a shot at the Women’s Champions League again, so next September they’ll be playing against the likes of Milan and Bordeaux to have the right to face teams like Wolfsburg and Real Madrid (like Mary Tyler Moore…we’re gonna make it after all)

Idaho Vandals 1 – 2 Montana Grizzlies

Eastern Washington Eagles 0 – 2 Montana Grizzlies

Montana Grizzlies 2 – 1 Weber State Wildcats

Montana Grizzlies 2 – 1 Idaho State Bengals

Camilla Xu’s unstoppable unstoppability came to an official end with three opponents hitting the net behind her in the Big Sky’s final bow of regular season play. But that didn’t matter much as Taylor Stoeger notched five goals over four matches and Sydney Haustein and Skyleigh Thompson rose to the occasion as play makers.

Let’s just enjoy Haustein’s volley to wrap up the regular season…shall we?

SC Freiburg 1 – 2 Bayer Leverkusen [F]

Freiburg 1 – 1 RB Leipzig [M]

Vfl Wolfsburg 1 – 2 Frieburg [M]

Vfl Onsabruk 4 – 5 Freiburg [M-Cup]

While the ladies improvement in form was halted abruptly by Leverkusen, the Men continued their unbeaten run. Lucas Holer has been the man on the mission of late, dishing two assists and one goal. They’re in the top 3 of the league and into the third round of the German cup, and frankly Holer’s pony tail is in my top two of possible haircuts this winter.

Ross County 2 – 3 St. Mirren

Ross County 2 – 3 Livingston

Say this for the Staggies they’ve found a new level of consistency under Malcai McKay. Though the ways they got to the end result were different (they never seemed to be in it against St. Mirren and were outdueled at the end, while they coughed up an early lead to Livingston) the Staggies were undone by the same scoreline at home. It’s been nice to try loaned keeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer at the back, but eleven ceded goals and one point in five matches might mean that Ross Laidlaw is still the best option at the back.

Vozdovac 0 – 0 Napredak

FK Radnik Surdulica 1 – 3 Vozdovac

I can find little to nothing to say about the goalless draw with Napredek, but the Dragons soared in the second half against Radnik, scoring twice within five minutes to put the game away. Again Nikola Vujnovic was the man of the hour getting the winner in a mad scramble before helping set up a prettier goal a few minutes later.

SC Bastia 0 – 0 Grenoble [M]

Montabaun 2 – 0 Grenoble [F]

Grenoble 1 – 2 Dijon [M]

It was a rough couple weeks for the Alpiners, as the men saw their winning streak dissipate, and the women dropped their second match of the season (a result that saw them slip to fifth in their division.

Austin FC 0 – 1 Minnesota United

Minnesota United 3 – 2 Philadelphia Union

Minnesota United 1 – 1 Los Angeles FC

The Loons have hit the last sprint to the playoffs in an absolute melee for the last spots in the West. The team can get hot and maybe this will be their booster pack to a cup title. They certainly showed it in their come back win against Philadelphia, but the scuffling attempts against a poor Austin team, and the sheer relief at managing a draw at home makes it feel like time’s running out. Some credit should be shared by Franco Frangapane and Robin Lod who have become more than Emanuel Reynoso’s supporting players, but a reliable tandem of their own.

Emelec 1 – 0 Orense [M]

Emelec 2 – 1 Barcelona SC [M]

The physicality of the match against Orense led to a double red card for one man on both sides, but a late Alexis Zapata goal saved the day there. But Joao Rojas double in the derby against Barcelona is one of the sweetest solutions we’ve had of late (particularly they blast of a goal he had to open it). With four matches to go in the closing campaign, Emelec just needs to keep up the showing to feel ready for the big title bout at the end of the year.

Celaya 1 – 0 Alebrijes

The Oaxacans have now slipped to the bottom of their table. And mercifully they only have three games to go until they can reassess and revise their goals…again.

News & Notes

A Subcontinent Shadow Team

The Indian I-League is still five-six weeks away, but we’re starting to feel torn about our allegiance. Round Glass Punjab is owned by a former Montanan, plays in one of our favorite parts of the country, and boasts some great international players that we can catch up on with ease…but then there’s another team.

Corbett FC actually plays very close to where I used to live (my most favorite part of the country), boasts a bunch of local players, and have Papa Tiger as their mascot. But they are hard hard to track (it honestly looks like they haven’t actually played in four years). The team was out gunned in qualifying for the I-League, but we’ll watch their progress with great interest…assuming we can…

Tournament Time

With the regular season in the books, the Grizzlies’ attention turns to tournament play, starting with the Big Sky Conference tournament in Greely in one week. Their strong record got them a first round bye, but they’ll still have to get a win in Greely against the Northern Colorado Bears to return to the NCAA Tournament for the second time this year. [Pandemics are weird man]

Here Come the Royals

Legon Cities kicks off their new season this weekend. When last we left the Royals, they had just escaped relegation, were fighting off legal challenges to their position in the top flight, and were embroiled in a messy divorce from manager Bashir Hackford. So what’s new with the sideshow that never stops?

Goalkeeper Fatua Duda is now Coach Fatua Duda. His likely replacement: Eric Ofori Antwi has arrived under a cloud of suspicion about being “induced” to leave his old club. Young Hashim Ali will try to step into the big boots left by Niger’s Victorien Adebayour. But the team’s other signees (defender Rashid Mohammed, teen forward Abdul Nassiru Hamza) boast some strong recent form of their own. So two normal stories and one perfectly Legon story to set up the season against…oh boy…Ghanaian giants and local rivals Hearts of Oak.

A Visit from the President

We don’t always get to see the best in the world, let alone hang out near them. But Megan Rapinoe, arguable the best and most influential women’s soccer player today just happened to hang out at our local soccer gathering spot (the same place Alex learned to roll pool balls, and napped during world cup time). As Rapinoe herself wrote, “… This outrageously beautiful mural from the outrageously talented @cyfione [Muralist Rock “CYFI” Martinez] to commemorate when The Gays (TM) took over the world. … I am truly honored, thank you with all my gay little heart. Spaces like these can be sacred ground for us, and this is a special one.”

Players of the Weeks

We can’t ignore the superb showings of Taylor Stoeger and Lucas Holer, and fortunately, we don’t have to! With two weeks of awards to give out, let’s hear it for them both!

Standings Update

I’m running well late, so I’ll leave the standings update for next week, but the duel between the Griz and Trolls continues to pick up steam at the top of the table.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana20172.181.60.7
Rosenborg BK355122.122.41.2
Emelec2210121.731.61.2
Freiburg209171.501.71.5
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Minnesota United129101.451.21.2
Grenoble1710161.421.11.2
Legon Cities116111.391.21.0
FK Vozdovac118131.281.11.5
Ross County105181.061.21.6
Alebrijes512120.931.11.7
Table Updated 10/27/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, October 27th

Haugesund v. Rosenborg [M]

Dundee FC v. Ross County

Vancouver Whitecaps v. Minnesota United

Alebrijes v. Atalante

Thursday, October 28th

Friday, October 29th

Saturday, October 30th

Rosenborg v. Lillestrom SK [M]

Freiburg v. Greuther Furth [M]

Ross County v. Hibernian

Sunday, October 31st

Hearts of Oak v. Legon Cities

Grenoble v. Merignac [F]

Minnesota United v. Sporting Kansas City

Monday, November 1st

Tuesday, November 2nd

Week 41: Sweeps and Stunners

Week 41: Sweeps and Stunners

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Results & Recaps

Rosenborg BK 7 – 1Arna Bjornar [F]

Rosenborg had all the flow in this game, dominating from whistle to whistle. Lisa Marie Utland led off, and Julie Blakstad and Sarah Kanutte Forness added a pair a piece. We even got a closer sense of Norway’s : Blakstad, Bragstad and Bronstad.

Grenoble Foot 2 – 0 Nimes Metropole Gard [F]

The ladies of the Alps continued their strong opening weeks of the campaign, surging to a four way tie atop their half of Ligue 2. It was Andrea Compper’s show on Saturday, with a pair of goals to win going away.

FC Carl Zeiss Jena 1 – 5 SC Freiburg [F]

To complete the clean sweep of our women’s European leagues, Freiburg ceded an early goal on a strong attack. And then, they struck back. It was Hasret Kayicki’s hat trick that set the tone of consistently capitalizing on Jena’s defensive lapses and the ladies of Breigsau never looked back.

Minnesota United 1 – 3 Colorado

Despite an early goal from Adrien Hounou and a man advantage in the second half, the Loons couldn’t get a point at home. They might explain it away with a complaint that many top talents were away on international duty. But another explanation is that Minnesota just isn’t that good.

Northern Colorado Bears 1 – 0 Montana Grizzlies

The Griz dropped a game to their mascot match in Big Sky Conference Play. Greely has been a haunting locale for the Griz, going winless there in the last 12 years (back when Camilla Xu was in second grade). For the first time in a while, the Griz defenders were second best, with the Bears pounding the net, and the Griz limited to 3 shots on target.

Alebrijes 2 – 2 Jaibos

Again, the Oaxacans got themseleves got into a tough situation falling behind by two goals in the first half. To be fair, after the utterly befuddled defending, two goals was a gift. But a pair of penalties (one of which led to the ejection of Jaibos’ keeper) gave them enough life to get the late equalizer courtesy of Julio Cesar Cruz.

News & Notes

Around the World in a Couple Hot seconds

Sallai’s Strike

Several players from our favorite sides made appearances in international duty this last weekend: here’s a quick snapshot of how they fared.

Most of our action happened in Europe, and it turned out pretty darn well. Vozdovac’s striker Justas Lascikas got a goal in Lithuania’s win over Bulgaria (it was also Lithuania’s first points in seven qualifying matches). The Loon’s Robin Lod factored in Finland’s win over Kazakhstan, but neither he nor club/country teammate Jukka Raitalta could stop the loss to Ukraine (leaving the Finns one point out of qualification position with two to play). Freiburg’s Ermedin Demirovic was a substitute for Bosnia against the same teams to no avail (B&H is two points back with two to play). But the match highlight was probably Roland Sallai who got the opening goal in Wembly stadium against the mighty England national team. That goal set up a draw to end England’s 12 year winning streak in competitive home games. The point also kept Hungary alive (if only mathematically)

Meanwhile in Africa, Romain Metanire was on the field for both legs of the matches Madagascar split with DR Congo, but their hopes of another Cinderella story at Qatar 2022 are effectively over. Grenoble’s David Hennen played the first half in Togo’s draw against Congo (just the Regular Republic variety) in similar academic matches. While Emelec had native son Joao Rojas came on twice for Ecuador’s legendary Enner Valencia in both the win over Bolivia and the loss to Venezuela.

And in friendly matches: Michael Boxall helped the Kiwis to a sweep of their games (against Bahrain and Curacao, but still).

That didn’t last long…

Somehow, after all the praise we heaped on Claire Howard, Camilla Xu took one of her predecessor’s records while still in her freshman season. By keeping Northern Colorado off the board for the first 38 minutes, Xu set a new program record with 703 scoreless minutes. Breaking a seemingly massive streak. Then, of course, Northern Colorado broke the streak 2 minutes later…sigh.

Player of the Week

While Sallai and Lascikas can be proud of their contributions to their countries, this was a ladies week and the woman at the center of a European sweep was Hasret Kayicki. Her hat trick and consistent leadership has buoyed Freiburg during an up and down season..and even if it means that she like Klara Buhl before her, leaves Freiburg for greener pastures/bank accounts, it’s a pleasure to see her strive every week.

Hat Trick Hasret!

Standings Update

I’m running well late, so I’ll leave the standings update for next week, but the duel between the Griz and Trolls continues to pick up steam at the top of the table.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana16162.131.60.7
Rosenborg BK314122.062.31.2
Emelec2210121.731.61.2
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Grenoble169141.461.21.2
Freiburg178161.441.51.5
Minnesota United10891.411.11.2
Legon Cities–b116111.391.21.0
FK Vozdovac107161.231.11.5
Ross County105151.131.21.5
Alebrijes512110.961.11.7
Table Updated 10/6/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, October 13th

Rosenborg BK v. LSK Kvinner [F]

Thursday, October 14th

Friday, October 15th

Idaho Vandals v. Montana Grizzlies

Saturday, October 16th

SC Freiburg v. Bayer Leverkusen [F]

Klepp v. Rosenborg BK [F]

Freiburg v. RB Leipzig [M]

Ross County v St. Mirren

Vozdovac v Napredak

SC Bastia v Grenoble

Austin FC v Minnesota United

Sunday, October 17th

Rosenborg v. Valerenga

Emelec v. Orense

Eastern Washington Eagles v. Montana Grizzlies

Monday, October 18th

Tuesday, October 19th

Week 40: The Name of the Game is Consistency

Week 40: The Name of the Game is Consistency

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Results & Recaps

Alebrijes 0 – 1 Tapatio

Even at home Oaxaca can’t seem to buy a goal. They’ve had 3 in 5 September matches.

DC United 3 – 1 Minnesota United

The Loons had put together a nice little run just in time for a ping ponging road trip. First a trip to the capitol where their reliance on Emanuel Reynoso, as a team that usually expects a goal or two (based on advanced statistics) barely managed enough to expect .25 of a goal. (Thanks to the oft overlooked Bakye Dibassy for laughing in the face of that math.)

University of Montana Grizzlies 1 – 0 Sacramento State Hornets

Rack up another text book Griz shutout. Get the one goal you need and trust your keeper to do the job (Camilla Xu clearly is targeting a new Clean Sheet Record).

SC Freiburg 2 -2 VfL Wolfsburg [F]

A point-free campaign lady Griffins got a lot better with a draw against Champions League regulars Wolfsburg. Hasret Kayicki did what she does with another goal, and welcome Mia Büchele to the party with her first of the campaign. Best of all, we actually have highlights!!

Hertha BSC 1 – 2 Freiburg [M]

Meanwhile, the men folk of Freiburg continued their fine form. Christian Gunter delivered a couple of great corner kicks to set up both the opener and the winner. They are now the only unbeaten side left in the Bundesliga and sit one point back of legendary leaders Bayern Munich.

Dundee United 1 – 0 Ross County

On the other end, County has still yet to get a win this season and this was only the third game where they limited their opponents to one goal.

FK Spartak Subotica 0 – 4 Vozdovac

True story, I was helping Alex on the potty as my phone blew up with goals from Subotica.

Me: Wow the dragons are scoring a lot of goals!

Alex: well…they are dragons.

So, congrats Nikola Vujnovic and company. You’re magical beasts in fine form.

Grenoble 2 – 0 Pau [M]

The Alpiners are on a roll at the moment: unbeaten in 3 and coalescing around Yoric Ravet to spur a solid attack. Mamodou Diallo scored a stunning volley, but Ravet’s been a creative force and challenged the defense with every set piece. The right side of the midfield still looks dubious. If only there was an answer? Maybe one that starts with a J- and ends with an -essy Bennet?

Dallas 0 – 0 Minnesota United

Reynoso was back but when no one puts the biscuit in the basket against the most porous team in the Western conference … well all the creativity in the world can’t replace accuracy.

Thonon Evian 1 – 1 Grenoble Foot [F]

It was another late goal that saved the day for Grenoble, this time an 88th minute equalizer from Claudia Fabre to compensate for a first half defensive miscue.

Kristiansund 1 – 0 Rosenborg [M]

After three big wins RBK couldn’t grab another in trying circumstances. Normally reliable Adam Anderson’s first minute [FIRST MINUTE!!] red card for pulling an opposing striker to the ground. Forced the trolls to play down a man for the whole match. Kristiansund got their goal quickly and only a great game by goalie Julian Lund kept it close. So moral victories it is!

Tecnico Universitario 1 – 0 Emelec [M]

Now winless in three straight, Emelec is slipping far from their chances to sweep the seasons. They’re guaranteed a playoff spot, but they’d much rather play like Emelec 6 months ago than Emelec now…shame time travel doesn’t work.

Montana Grizzlies 0 – 0 Portland State Vikings

The Griz lost their winning streak but Camilla Xu made it 7 straight shutouts during Sunday’s game at South Campus Stadium.

Venados 1 – 1 Alebrijes

It took a last second Josue Gomez equalizer to save the Oaxacans from another defeat. Well, the last second equalizer and a whole bunch of good fortune on some too close for comfort Venados attacks. But however you save the day, we’re glad that the day is saved.

News & Notes

Hey! More World Cup Qualifiers!

The cancelling of all matches for six months has put an extra bit of pressure on World Cup qualification, so we’ve got a ton of teams racing to qualify for the tournament in Qatar next winter. So, what could have been a little distraction is instead an all hands on deck situation.

Pay. The. Refs.

A weekly reminder that Ecuador should pay their referees.

Vaccine Cards Up, Volume Down

I’ve been conflicted all year about attending soccer matches. In my dream, I can take one of you guys, laugh, play, eat something fried and/or cheesy and come home with a bonding experience. In reality, the stupid virus is still out there and the absence of masks in the stands makes me wary and your mom terrified.

To this purpose, a lot of programs have started requiring vaccine proof or a recent negative test. But our local team is not.

So, some of our fellow Minnesotans have decided to stop attending matches. Especially those that lead the chants, the cheers, and build the atmosphere. The team hasn’t really listened to prior requests, so this may be a good demonstration for you in how to make change, or at least, try to.

Player of the Week

I’m torn this week. On the one hand, Grenoble’s surge in form owes a lot to Yoric Ravet. On the other, Montana’s increasing dominance owes a lot to Camilla Xu. On a suddenly growing third hand, Nikola Vujnovic’s goals are a big help to Vozdovac’s season goals. With a couple recent shout outs to Grenoble, we’ll spread the wealth around and applaud the Freshman keeper, Camilla Xu. Congrats!

Standings Update

Rosenborg and Emelec losses dropped them farther off the pace set by the Griz. But Minnesota’s lost road trip hurts the most, dropping them from fourth to seventh. And at the foot of the table Alebrijes has slipped below 1 point per game.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana16162.131.60.7
Rosenborg BK314122.062.31.2
Emelec2210121.731.61.2
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Grenoble169141.461.21.2
Freiburg178161.441.51.5
Minnesota United10891.411.11.2
Legon Cities–b116111.391.21.0
FK Vozdovac107161.231.11.5
Ross County105151.131.21.5
Alebrijes512110.961.11.7
Table Updated 10/6/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, October 6th

Thursday, October 7th

Friday, October 8th

Saturday, October 9th

Rosenborg BK v Arna Bjornar [F]

Sunday, October 10th

Grenoble Foot v. Nimes Metropole Gard [F]

FC Carl Zeiss Jena v. SC Freiburg [F]

Minnesota United v. Colorado

Northern Colorado v. Montana Grizzlies

Monday, October 11th

Tuesday, October 12th

Alebrijes v. Jaibos

Week 39: Welcomes and Farewells

Week 39: Welcomes and Farewells

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Results & Recaps

Viking 3 – 1 Rosenborg [M-Cup]

Age Hareide fielded a strong side for the cup but they never got out of first gear, and Rosenborg made an exit far earlier than their dominant performances suggested they would.

Red Star Belgrade v. FK Vozdovac

Postponed. See News Below

Atletico Morelia 1 – 0 Alebrijes

Man, Oaxaca can’t build on their momentum can they? Their longest unbeaten run of the year has been two games….a pair of draws…so it was back to the struggle bus here.

Rodez 1 – 1 Grenoble [M]

Speaking of teams without an ounce of momentum, Grenoble’s defense seems just too tired to hold on at the end of games, giving up another stoppage time goal. This one came off a late foul deep in their area, and resulted in dropped points in a game they coulda shoulda won. One silver lining, it is their first road point of the campaign so…thank heaven for small mercies.

Northern Arizona Lumberjacks 0 – 1 Montana Grizzlies

You wouldn’t know it from my incessant praising of the Griz, but there are those who felt they were a soft Conference Champion, as their final opponent in the tournament (these same Lumberjacks) were disqualified due to COVID rather than truly beaten. But Caitlin Rogers’ long distance free kick and Camilla Xu’s growing confidence in goal were enough to silence those doubters and put the Griz back atop the Big Sky again.

Avaldsnes 0 – 1 Rosenborg [F]

The Troll Ladies were a little slow to shake off the rust, but Sarah Kanutte Fornes did the job as an 81st minute substitute driving in an 87th minute goal on a textbook spin in the box. With 5 matches left, Rosenborg remain favorites for European qualification again this year…knock on all the wood.

Motherwell 2 – 1 Ross County

County’s hopes for a turn in fortunes were doused with another lightning fast goal, with Motherwell’s Callum Slattery netting a goal in the 2nd minute. Regan Charles Cook continued his strong form with an equalizer, but couldn’t get the defense to do the job.

Minnesota 2 – 0 Houston Dynamo

Again, the Loon’s attack was impressive right off the bat. Ethan Finlay scored his second in as many games, and Robin Lod made up for Emanuel Reynoso’s unusually underwhelming performance. But the midfield and defense ran out of gas in the second half, and only a great showing by Tyler Miller kept the score line comfortable.

Freiburg 3 – 0 Augsburg

The Griffins turned out the light on their old grounds in style. Lukas Kübler had a great showing after moving up to midfield from his usual right back role, but Lucas Höler was similarly strong and the whole squad played superlatively.

Grenoble 0 – 1 Olympique Marseille [F]

Les Grenobloises dropped their first points of the year…but I have no highlights so…that’s all I know.

Rosenborg 3- 1 Mondalen[M]

Stefano Holmquist’s ridonkulous form continues. In his past 5 Eliteserien games he has 7 goals, including two more at home this weekend. It’s a nice bounce back after being bumped out of the cup earlier in the week.

Southern Utah Thunderbirds 0 – 1 Montana Grizzlies

The Griz are back to bossing around the big sky conference. Even on a road trip with a redshirt freshman in goal, they’ve pulled off a pair of clean sheets to open conference play. This time it was Bella O’Brien knocking in a pass during your standard crash the box corner kick.

Emelec 2 – 2 Universidad Catolica

It took a late equalizer from Jose Cevallos trundling the ball in for Emelec to dodge two defeats in a row. The dropped points of the past few weeks makes a season sweep far less likely for Los Bombillos, but the team spirit should give hope that they’ll be well suited to claim the title at the end of the year.

FK Vozdovac 1 – 1 Mladost Lucani

The Dragons should be rightfully downhearted about only scraping a point against bottom of the table Lucani. But as it’s only their first draw of the season, and it was buoyed by a brilliant Milos Pantovic run, maybe there should be some pride in coming back at least a little?

News & Notes

Welcome to the Community Owen

We celebrated Owen’s baptism while your uncle Simon and I surreptitiously checked our phones for news of the North London derby. Spoiler alert: the baptism went better. And that’s even when the pastor’s “you are blessed by the water” was met with a firm “NO! I AM NOT!” (To be fair you were pretty sick Owen, nobody was getting a smile from you.)

Whatever Red Star wants….Red Star gets

This time it was a postponement for the match against Vozdovac. It was definitely because of COVID tests (among injured players) and not at all about needing a break from a schedule that called for six games in 14 days. (Narrator voice: it might have been, but they’re the dominant team in Serbia so…)

Sweet Dreams Dreisamstadion

For almost 70 years, the best of Freiburg fußball has had one home, one the banks of the Dreisam River. But the last match is now in the books, and in 20 days a new era will start at the new Europa Stadion. New is nice, and tradition is powerful. Here’s to the past and the future in Freiburg!

Player of the Week

I tried hard to spread around the awards, recognizing teams that didn’t dominate the summer lull. But we can’t pretend like Rosenborg’s best isn’t also the best in our world this week, or even the last month: Stefano Holmquist come on down!

Stefano Vecchia - File 2020 10 24 Djurgardens If Ik Sirius Fk Stefano Vecchia 04 Jpg Wikimedia Commons : Statystyki w obecnym sezonie zawodnika stefano holmquist vecchia (rosenborg trondheim) występy bramki asysty

Standings Update

The Griz got back to the top of the heap this week after their two strong road wins to kick off conference play. Meanwhile the middle of the pack got thoroughly shuffled With Minnesota climbing, Grenoble falling, and the Staggies and Dragons starting to split hairs

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana15062.141.70.7
Rosenborg BK314112.112.31.2
Emelec2210111.771.71.2
Minnesota United10781.481.21.2
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Grenoble159141.421.11.2
Freiburg167161.411.51.5
Legon Cities–b116111.391.21.0
FK Vozdovac97131.1721.01.5
Ross County105151.1671.21.5
Alebrijes511101.001.21.7
Table Updated 9/29/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, September 29th

Alebrijes v. Tapatio

DC United v. Minnesota United

Thursday, September 30th

Friday, October 1st

University of Montana Grizzlies v. Sacramento State Hornets

Saturday, October 2nd

SC Freiburg v. VfL Wolfsburg [F]

Hertha BSC v. Freiburg [M]

Dundee United v. Ross County

FK Spartak Subotica v. Vozdovac

Grenoble v Pau [M]

Dallas v Minnesota United

Sunday, October 3rd

Thonon Evian v. Grenoble Foot [F]

Kristiansund v. Rosenborg [M]

Tecnico Universitario v. Emelec [M]

Montana Grizzlies v. Portland State Vikings

Emelec v. Orense

Monday, October 4th

Tuesday, October 5th

Venados v. Alebrijes

Week 38: When it’s good, it’s great

Week 38: When it’s good, it’s great

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Results & Recaps

Sporting KC 4 – 0 Minnesota United

There’s ugly and then there’s this. A bare-bottomed spanking (something you boys know nothing about) gave the Loons a lot to think about before their next match against another top opponent.

California State Long Beach 0 – 1 Montana Grizzlies

This is the game plan of Chris Citowicki at work. Knowing your strength in defense, frustrate the opponent for most of the match and hit them quick before it ends. Camilla Xu continues to show up like Claire Howard between the sticks, and her long ball to start the attack gave the Griz just what they needed to knock off another top opponent.

Toulouse 4 – 1 Grenoble [M]

Remember when Grenoble was close enough to Toulouse that this was a marquee match up? It was 4 months ago. Aka a long long time. This ain’t your spring time Grenoble. So we’ll do what we can.

Kevin Schade shields the draw

Mainz 0 – 0 Freiburg [M]

Mainz had the better of the match against Freiburg. To be fair, Freiburg was running a little behind without some of their most in form players (Vincenzo Grifo and Woo-Yeong Jeong), so the draw still feels worth it.

Ross County 2 – 2 Hearts

Who’d have thought that finally playing Regan Charles Cook up in the attack would pay off (for the record: all the Staggies fans for two years…all of them…the whole time). He buoyed Blair Spittal in the midfield, helping him to a first half brace. Also Ashley Maynard-Brewer made his first appearance in goal and despite the late equalizer, acquitted himself well.

Vozdovac 1 – 2 FK Radnicki 1923

While Milos Milovic netted a strong equalizer, it was a short lived draw. Radnicki got the lead back within another minute and thus the Dragons continued to slip.

Minnesota 3 – 0 LA Galaxy

I helped get you two to bed and raced over to catch the second half of the game with 19,000 close friends (and a double layered mask). It did not disappoint. I missed Emanuel Reynoso’s superb first half goals, but I did see a special appearance by Ethan Finlay who made every run more dangerous, scored a solid goal, and stopped another attack dead in its tracks, more on that later.

Sarpsborg 08 1 – 3 Rosenborg [M]

Stefano Holmquist Vecchio continued to be in great form, as Rosenborg continued to battle towards the top. Meanwhile the back line continued to control the area and refused to let Sarpsborg near the goal. So tip the cap and say a “tusen takk” to Even Hovland and Erland Dahl Reitan.

LDU Quito 3- 2 Emelec [M]

The replay of last week’s postponed game was a barnburner, the down side being that the loss dropped Emelec out of fist place. It was an impressive piece of story telling as Andersson Ordonez finished a game winning penalty after giving up an own goal in the first three minutes.

Grenoble 4 – 1 Nancy [M]

Apparently it’s also not Friday’s Grenoble, as they absolutely dominated Nancy throughout the field. (To be fair, Nancy has a scant three points in the year, so…really shoulda won it). While the back line was make shift, Loic Nestor made the most of his player of the week honors with a goal, Yoric Ravet (our first two favorite team player) got a goal, an assist and a man of the match honors.

News & Notes

Conveniently COVID

Naturally, you boys celebrated your first week back at school with that school’s first ever positive COVID test. The school was shuttered on Monday, and your mom and I made sure that you had somebody to be with (ie. us rather than your grandparents.) It’s just a little hard that this thing that has shifted all our expectations for your life and world is still complicating life 18 months after it started.

Lerkendal’s Legend Grows

With Stefano Holmquist Vecchia’s brace Rosenborg hit the Century mark for goals scored this year between both the Menner og Kvinner. So cheers to everyone who made it happen: especially Julie Blackstad, Lisa Marie Utland, and Kristoffer Zacharaissen (yes…I used this as an excuse to bring up my three favorite Norwegians).

Player of the Week

I can admit that I’m biased, but since I saw him, and I was in such a good mood watching his performance that Ethan Finlay made my night. So Ethan gets the shout out.

Standings Update

Despite a split in the week, Grenoble got the points they needed to move one thousandth of a point ahead of Punjab FC into fourth place, while the Grizzlies continue to keep Rosenborg in their sights for the top spot.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Rosenborg BK294102.122.41.1
University of Montana13062.051.80.8
Emelec229111.81.61.2
Grenoble Foot158131.4721.21.2
Punjab FC–b7461.4711.20.9
Minnesota United9781.421.11.2
Legon Cities–b116111.391.21.0
Freiburg157161.371.51.6
Ross County105141.211.21.5
FK Vozdovac96131.181.01.5
Alebrijes41081.001.31.9
Table Updated 9/22/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, September 22nd

Viking v. Rosenborg [M-Cup]

Thursday, September 23rd

Red Star Belgrade v. FK Vozdovac

Atletico Morelia v. Alebrijes

Friday, September 24th

Rodez v. Grenoble [M]

Northern Arizona Lumberjacks v. Montana Grizzlies

Saturday, September 25th

Avaldsnes v. Rosenborg [F]

Motherwell v. Ross County

Minnesota v Houston Dynamo

Sunday, September 26th

Freiburg v. Augsburg

Grenoble v. Olympique Marseille [F]

Rosenborg v. Mondalen[M]

Southern Utah Thunderbirds v. Montana Grizzlies

Emelec v. Universidad Catolica

Monday, September 27th

FK Vozdovac v. Mladost Lucani

Tuesday, September 28th