The time has come again, to crown this year’s winner of the MacKenzie Cup (it’s a sippy cup…because you’re little kids, and I like the joke)
Final Standings
Team
W
D
L
PPG
GFA
GAA
Montana
13
3
3
2.21
1.58
0.47
Rosenborg
36
12
21
1.74
1.84
1.17
Minnesota
28
13
16
1.70
2.16
1.30
Grenoble
35
12
22
1.63
1.47
0.99
Punjab
13
8
11
1.47
1.50
1.06
Emelec
18
17
15
1.42
2.02
0.96
Legon Cities
16
10
15
1.41
1.15
1.27
Freiburg
26
13
31
1.30
1.41
1.64
Ross County
14
10
21
1.16
1.33
1.53
Vozdovac
10
10
15
1.14
1.03
1.25
Alebrijes
8
9
15
1.03
1.25
1.84
Table Updated 12/30/23 b–Team is between seasons
None of our favorite teams won any hardware this year, but while no one hit the heights of last year, there was some impressive consistency up and down the table. Again the Grizzlies take the cup, meaning this hallowed chalice firmly belongs to northern teams with incredible women’s sides (that’s your cue Aurora).
Beyond what has become a fairly familiar top three, Grenoble emerged with strong showings from both men and women to claim fourth place while Punjab rounded out the top half of the table thanks to their dominance of the I-League (giving up the lead in the table after the jumped up to the bigger pond of the Superleague)
Emelec is our pivot team this year, smack dab in the center as befits a year with both some great moments, and some lousy ones. They’re followed by the frustratingly incosistent Legon Cities and Freiburg (whose great fall of 2022 faded hard and fast in 2023).
At the foot of the table, Ross County could not find any confidence in their campaigns, barely squeaking their way through matches to keep themselves afloat in Scotland. Vozdovac continues to show good runs to start the year and difficulties keeping up at the end of it. But Alebrijes’ scuffles and eventual collapse out of the playoffs earned them their second wooden spoon in our history.
Beyond the great showings of the clubs in general this year, we have to point out that our favorite teams won four trophies this year! The I-League trophy made Roundglass Punjab the first team to be promoted a division on our watch, but the Electricas win in the Campeonato Regional gave them a good chance too. And the most consistently strong sides: the Griz and the Trolljenta each took home hardware, though not as much as they might have hoped (Montana won the league, but not the tournament…ending their season early, Rosenborg lost the league, but won the cup…ending their season in confetti).
Players of the Year
We saw a lot of turnover among our best XI line up. But that’s to be expected when five starters play well enough to be transferred to other teams and bigger salaries, and three players graduate from their club/school teams. But while plenty of things change, one thing that stays inviolable is Vincenzo Grifo. There’s the sun in the morning, the moon at night, and Vincenzo Grifo putting in a shift in between.
Around Grifo we’re bringing in an all American-based midfield, with Cat Rapp pairing for the attack and Delaney Lou Schorr is taking on the wing position which I will still refer to as the Julie-Blakstad-Endowed-Chair for Wingers. Finally we’re adding in the player who has brought out a new found love and interest for both Alex and Owen, Bongokhule Hlongwane who paired a great year on the field with infectious positivity off of it.
That attack will be targeting goal machines Maya Hansen and Luka Macjen, two new comers who helped their teams to epic unbeaten runs. And they’ll be backed up behind them with some aggressive wingbacks in Mathys Tourraine of Grenoble and Ava Samuelson of Montana.
The defensive anchors are Nicholas Mensah for Legon Cities who helped to keep the Royals in plenty of games they might have otherwise capitulated for, Sarah Horte who paired a great league season with a strong showing at the women’s World Cup, and old stand by Pedro Ortiz of Emelec, who kept the most clean sheets in an otherwise unheralded campaign.
We had so much attacking depth that we have several players out of position on our bench, Janina Minge of Freiburg and Borisav Burmaz of Vozdovac are strictly up top players, but Cinthia Bone of Emelec, and Jayden Nelson of Rosenborg are being played as flexible wingers who can sub in for any of the outside players.
Grenoble puts two players on our midfield bench with Jade Decilap and Jessy Bennet earning the nods, and while Ernesto Reyes gets the obligatory spot for Alebrijes, we were left with just one defensive spot on the bench, so with apologies to Tianna Harris and Michael Boxall, we went with Anna Josensdal of Rosenborg (again a defensive midfielder being asked to play out of position). Finally, our reserve keeper is the only Ross County player to make the squad this year in Ross Laidlaw (the penalty saves Ross, we are eternally in your debt)
Nobel FC Most Enjoyable Outstanding Writer
A new award (the MEOW, as our house of cat lovers should appreciate) this year will go to the Nobel FC subject that I rated most highly. This year, I’m giving the nod to William Golding, whose work was familiar, but whose breadth of creativity was truly impressive. In addition to this award, I bought another of his books to read in the new year.
What’s Next
Less will be more this next year. I will write one essay a month (as ever), I will write one club news recap a month (though that’s already been tested), and one Nobel FC every two months.
I will say what I have said seemingly every post this year: if you have any thoughts I would love to hear them. (The highlight of this year is definitely the excellent journalist Manny Djazmi tweeting a link to this blog.) This is a project for my sons, the oldest of whom is now sounding out simple sentences and easy readers, but it will still be a while before they can read all this. So if you ARE reading this, then please: comment below and let’s share ideas.
Returning home after an impressive road trip, the Griz didn’t let up with a decisive 2-0 win against Sacramento State that sealed another Big Sky Regular Season title. The regular season finale was an appropriate celebration of senior night and appropriate send offs from Delaney Lou Schorr who got the winning goal (1-0) and Ashlynn Dvorak who tied Camilla Xu’s record for shutouts in a season. (While the Griz were undefeated during the regular season, No Big Sky team has gone undefeated through the playoffs…so the pressure is still on the Griz to qualify for the NCAAs).
Up next: Nov 3rd (v. either Portland State or Idaho State), Nov 5th (Big Sky Championship, if they qualify)
What’s in Store at Rosenborg?
For the first time since June 18th the Kvinner were beaten, this time by Brann (0-2). The loss stung as it dropped them out of first place with only three matches left in the campaign. If they win their next two (not a sure thing with a desperate Avaldnes and old rival Lillestrom) the final two against Valerenga may end up deciding two trophies (the League in the first match and the Cup in the second).
On the other hand, the men were able to hold on to a 1-1 draw against Stabaek courtesy of an excellent penalty save by young keeper Sander Tangvik. The diving stop at the end of the first half was only one ample of his excellent defense to help his team hold on. They turned up with one of their best performances of the season, with Emil Frederiksen and Jayden Nelson offering a tremendous tandem to hit the net twice en route to a 3-1 win over Valerenga (featuring another Sander Tangvik penalty save)
Next: The Menn face Molde; the Kvinner face Asvaldnes
Minnesota a la Mode…ah
The Loons dreams of another playoff trip were dashed by Johnny Russell as the nicest rivalry in sports gave Kansas City what they needed to advance, but sent Minnesota home for a long cold winter (with sizeable changes afoot) (1-3).
Punjab Zindabad
Ravi Kumar saved the day again with Punjab’s first clean sheet of the campaign to mark a draw with Jamshedpur (0-0). Unfortunately, that goalless draw was the high point, as Chennaiyin FC steamrolled the Shers for a 1-5 scoreline. Luka Macjen, Juan Mera, and Brandon Vanlalremdika have struggled to connect and create in attack at the Super League level, so here’s hoping they can sort it out soon.
Up Next: @ Mumbai City, v Hyderabad FC (battle to stay off the bottom of the table)
On Break (But we’ll update with news as it arises)
Grenoble’s Games
It was a wild one in Grenoble with a thrilling back and forth featuring beautiful goals in the run of play, clever volleys off set pieces and a raucous home crowd rendered silent when the visitors went ahead near the death. Then Armine Sbai saved the unbeaten run for the men against Valenciennes by tapping home an injury time scorcher that was deflected equalizer and the night was complete (3-3). Pape Meissa Ba did everything he could do to keep the streak going with two great goals at Pau, but an uncharacteristic defensive collapse from the backline let in two late goals and gave Pau the win to hand Les Alpiners their first defeat this season.
The women were outworked by the narrowest of margins in their two matches, both against Olympique Valence. First they were bested 2-1 in the league, and then they fell to Valence on penalty kicks (0-0; 5-4 on kicks). It’s disappointing as Valence has not been in great form, but Grenoble remains tied for the lead in Poule B of Division 3
Next: AC Ajaccio for les hommes; our old friends the squirrels of Merignac Arlac for les femmes
Live from Legon!
Nsoatreman jumped to the top of the table by beating the Royals (0-2) good for them, lousy for us. But Kwabena Boateng got the points right back with a first half goal to beat Dreams FC (1-0). Also, I’m always cheering for Kwabenas as my fellow Tuesday borns.
Next @ Samartex
Take a Sec with Emelec
After the match with LDU Quito was initially abandoned (for reasons I have not found anywhere), a replay led to a victory for the capital city side (0-1). Fortunately the men bounced back with a 2-1 win against Universidad Catolica with lesser lights like Anibal Chala and Alexis Zapata hitting the net to provide more goals from the “Everybody not Named Miller Bolanos” category of goalscorers..
Next: a Guayquil derby against Guayquil City (and then another against Ecuador’s Barcelona). (I still have no news about the ladies playoff future but I will let you know when I know).
What’s the Word in ol’ Freiburg?
It remains a frustrating campaign for the Frauen auf Breigesauen…Falling to lowly Nurenburg (2-0) and landing themselves on the doorstep of relegation.
Meanwhile Chirstian Streich saw a boost to his team’s form, opening with a solid 2-1 win against VfL Bochum featuring a sterling performance by wingers Vincenzo Grifo and Ristu Doan. Though they fell behind against Backa Topola, Vincenzo Grifo made the second half count with a hat trick to take the win. (3-1). After all that, Freiburg were a little wiped out and unable to keep up against Bayern Leverkusen. (1-2)
Next: Men have a cup match against Paderborn, a league game against Borussia Munchengladbach and then a return match against TSC Backa Topola. The women’s next match is against Hoffenheim.
County’s Bounty
The Stags continued to be waylaid by the weather, with the roads rendered unsafe for driving thus keeping St. Mirren stuck in Inverness and prolonging the fixture congestion for the highlanders in coming weeks.
In they did get on the field they ended up in a 0-0 draw against Dundee. They were in much better shape when they jumped out to a 3-1 advantage against Motherwell. Unfortunately, they quickly conceded equalizers to let the game slip out of reach and had to settle for a draw (3-3)
Next: against Hibernian, and Celtic
Gotta see this, Alebrijes!
I’m running out of things to say at this point. Oaxaca has struggled to ignite their offense and to manage their defense. When that happens, it’s very hard to win. So they didn’t, falling to Tapitalan (1-3)
Next a Halloween special v. Atlante (I had to save the 31st for the next post so I could focus up on important things, like getting candy with you kids)
What’s the haps at Vozdovac?
Backa Topolo has been something of a boogie team for Backa Topolo, in that like Oogie Boogie in the Nightmare before Christmas, they are actually a team of pillowcases filled with bugs. KIDDING! (I hope…) but Borisav Burmaz stunned them with an injury time penalty to snatch a draw and leave them reeling before facing Freiburg (1-1). I did have high hopes that the Dragons would be able to follow up their win against one fascist gang that pretends its a group of soccer fans (Red Star) by beating their gang rival (Partizan), and for one half it looked good. Then…it didn’t. The 3-0 defeat was an unusual slippage by the strong Vozdovac defense.
Next: v. Radniki Nis
News & Notes
…Absolutely Nothing
It only seems right that in reviewing the last two weeks, we should note the tremendous loss of life around the world, from Ukraine to Maine to the increasingly distressed cities of Ecuador, and particularly in the Gaza province. Smarter people than I can explain what happened to you, all I can do is hope that your generation inherits less chaos.
Family Gamesmanship
It feels poignant to recall the joy of family while others are losing their lives, but I genuinely hope that other families in Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, Ecuador and elsewhere can have the joy that we’ve had the last few weeks, with Alex and Owen showing off their soccer skills in backyard matches with the grown ups. Generally speaking, Alex will drive for goal constantly, Owen likes to shoot but also likes to wander when he doesn’t have the ball. Mostly, you both have fun, and that makes me happy.
Above you can see a prime example of you having fun.
Players Of the Month (so far)
Two penalty saves in two matches is pretty stellar work from Sander Tangvik, and much as I wish I could ignore the awesomeness that is Vincenzo Grifo, it must be said: the man is a maestro.
Standings
Rosenborg slipped but Punjab slipped harder so the Griz remain atop the standings as we enter the last two months. Meanwhile, at the bottom, Vozdovac had the chance to climb past Oxaca, but the 3-0 defeat kept them looking at the wooden spoon.
It was supposed by the 10th, it’s the 15th, this is life.
Recap
Griz Biz
I’m certainly not interested in a trip to Moscow (either Russia or Idaho) but Delanely Lou Schorr handled the Big Sky match with such grace and success maybe she could handle the Kremlin too (2-0).
On their return to the South Campus Stadium, the Griz kept the same determined focus. With Ashlyn Dvorak saving a penalty, Abby Gearheart, Sydney Haustein and Maddie Ditta finding the net and a welcome return for defender Ally Henricksen to notch wins against Weber State (2-1) and Idaho State (1-0)
But the real test came on the road with a visit to reigning conference champions Northern Arizona, and Northern Colorado. The NAU game did not disappoint, with the other top team in the Big Sky hitting the net within 15 minutes to take the lead. But the Griz answered with a sterling individual run from Skyleigh Thompson and a tremendous connection between Ava Samuelson and Delaney Lou Schorr before big time goalkeeping from Ashlyn Dvorak sealed the win (2-1). While the trip to Colorado could have been anti-climactic with a winless team trapping overconfident favorites, the Griz didn’t blink against their fellow Ursine warriors beating Northern Colorado handily (3-0)
Up next: v. Sacramento State, v. Portland State
Punjab Zindabad
Our favorite team in North India (who for some reason is playing in Delhi…NOT Punjab) is still yet to get a point in the highest level of subcontinent soccer. The defense left too many gaps and got punished by Goa (1-0). On their return “home” the Warriors had a great individual moment when goalie Ravi Kumar saved a penalty, only to see Northeast United scramble the ball in. But Punjab did not wilt and Juan Mera’s assist in the second half found defender Melroy Assissi to get the goal, and get the Shers their first Superleague point (1-1).
Up Next: @ Jamshedpur, @ Chennayin FC
What’s in Store at Rosenborg?
The women were able to grind out a win against Asane thanks to a goal from Camila Linberg in only her 5th start since joining the team from Italian side FCF Como 2000 (1-0). That win put the Trolljenta at the top of the Eliteserien. But that lofty perch was almost immediately at risk when the women dropped points for the first time since June, as Stabaek had them on the back foot from the start en route to a 1-1 draw.
The Midsummer boost for the men is fully forgotten as they gave up 5 goals to two players against Sarpsborg. Oh, defensive lapses, why must you lapse! (L 5-2)
Next: The Menn face Valerenga; the Kvinner face Brann
Minnesota a la Mode…ah
Hasani Dotson opened the game against LAFC with a shock goal that followed a shock playoff victory for another Minnesota Sports team (the Twins). But that was the last bit of good news the Loons got en route to a 5-1 shellacking (with Miguel Tapias netting a rare own goal).
The Loons responded to this hardship with something I honestly wasn’t sure they’d ever do. They fired manager Adrian Heath. Frankly, I don’t root for people to lose jobs, but my sympathy really only extended to Heath here. I think the players, club, and fans will all be well served with someone else in charge, as evidenced by the 5-2 smackdown executed by Teemu Puuki against the other LA team in the first match without Heath.
Up Next: @ Sporting Kansas City (Season finale…unless there’s some miracle playoff game)
Grenoble’s Games
It’s four in a row for the women with a 3-0 win over As Lattes including another goal from Candice Charbonnier, and then the biggest result so far, as Melanie Chabrier and wily veteran Claudia Fabre hit the net to beat rivals Clermont Foot 2-0 and take sole possession of first place in Poule B. Rather than rest there, they went back out and hit Marignier for a mercy rule (10-0) to move on to the 4th round of the League Cup
Meanwhile, Jessy Benet continued his resurgence with a goal against Guigngamp, in a 2-2 draw that required a fortunate bounce off of a Guingamp defender to rescue a point for the men and keep them as the only unbeaten side in Ligue 2 (though they do have fewer points than teams who have been beaten)
Next: Valenciennes and Pau for les hommes; Olympique Valence for les femmes
Live from Legon!
Nicholas Mensah stepped up again to help ground the defense against Aduana Stars, and score a goal to help them to a 2-1 win, and the defense held up for a draw against new foes Nations FC, before a couple of red cards and a Frank Antwi showcase got the same result against Bechem United (1-1).
Next @ Nsoatreman, v. Dreams FC
Take a Sec with Emelec
We have another champion in the year 2023! While Las Electricas were not able to beat 9 de Octubre during the regular season, there was one more match for the championship, and that’s the one they won (2-1) with Alison Ocho and Cinthia Bone finding the net, and total jubiliation surrounding your 2023 Guayas Region Champions!
The men managed to score not once, not twice, but THREE WHOLE TIMES against Cumbaya! The outburst almost doubled their goals for the season and grabbed them a much needed win (3-0). It’s not quite as cool as a trophy over your rivals, but…it’s not shabby.
Next: high profile Ecuador sides LDU Quito and Universidad Catolica are next for men, (The ladies should be bound for a playoff to make the women’s Premier Liga, but no word on timing for that yet).
What’s the Word in ol’ Freiburg?
Freiburg hasn’t quite been as fluid or high flying as recent season starts, but a comfortable and effective win against Augsburg (2-0) can go a long way. Vincenzo Grifo and Phillip Lienhart led the way and Lienhart’s defensive unit was back in form again.
Or it was until they had to run the gauntlet of Europa League Champions West Ham (losing 2-1), and perennial spoilsports Bayern Munich (losing 3-0). The team wrapped up a hectic week with a friendly against FC Basel…but they’re hopping right back in the frying pan next week.
Meanwhile Die Frauen will feel disappointed in giving up a very late equalizer to Duisburg (2-2), but should feel great about capitalizing on a few errors by Werder Bremen to snag 3 points (2-1)…and then can return to ruing their performances after a 3-0 thumping against Bayer Leverkusen
Next: Men v. VfL Bochum, (Europa League v. Serbia’s Backa Topola) and v. Leverkusen; Women v. Nurnburg
County’s Bounty
Actually there wasn’t any because lousy weather cancelled their game against Dundee. But at least they get to play St. Mirren, Dundee and Motherwell in a one week span.
Next: (See above…ooof boy this is gonna be a doozy)
Gotta see this, Alebrijes!
The Oaxacans were pumped up before their game against Atletico Morelia which made the draw (0-0) a little disappointing. But it’s worth remembering that the draw was only possible thanks to a stellar kick save by Octavio Paz on a Morelia penalty. So…as ever, thanks Octavio!
Unfortunately Octavio wasn’t able to hold down the fort against Cancun the very next match, with five goals pouring in and the Oxacans getting cited for 7 yellow cards (0-5). So, the frustrating dance of a step forward and three back remains
Next v. Tepatitalan and then Halloween special v. Atlante
What’s the haps at Vozdovac?
The dragons have been maddeningly inconsistent this year, but the inconsistency pays off when they follow lackluster defeats with solid wins. That was the result when Bogdan Vastsuk got the goal to beat Novi Pazar (1-0). The dragons followed that up with a valuable point on the raod against regular challengers Cukaricki (1-1) with Borisav Burmaz doing the honors.
Next: v. Backa Topolo (softening them up for Freiburg, I hope), v Partizan Belgrade (hopefully beating more facists)
News & Notes
Alex the Blackhawk
One of the biggest downsides to this rush of a new work life I have is that I didn’t get to talk much about Alex’s new soccer season with his first club team: the St. Paul Blackhawks. It was our first experience playing with MANY much bigger kids, and well, 2017 born kids are not all the same. (Our end of November kid was a little dwarfed by early January kids, which made for some mis-matches, some frustrating moments and more than a few tears).
But hard as it was to see those moments, it was great to see Alex get back up and try again. To watch him celebrate and cheer when teammates played well, and it was very nice to hear coaches take a beat to comfort him when he needed it. (As long as he’s having fun, I’m good)
Players Of the Month (so far)
It’s all too common to get sucked up in the thrill of scoring goals and forget that stopping them is a huge part of the game too. So with much sympathy to Teemu Puuki’s hat trick plus, we’re going with Griz goalie (fake gasp) Ashlyn Dvorak and Legon’s defender Nicholas Mensah.
Standings
Minnesota may be our first team to wrap up for the year unless they get some miraculous news this next weekend, but the drama is still building on our own table. The Griz are close to running away with their second title in four years, and Rosenborg has moved up into second place as Punjab falters in the Super League….add to that, a couple wins by the Loons and continued good runs by Grenoble might make North India’s finest slip all the way from first to the mid-table.
Author’s Note: This month I went back to teaching and running a classroom independently. And Alex went to Kindergarten for the first time. So, daily writing tasks like match recaps turned into a low priority. I have made the command decision to make the recap posts a more limited affair. Rather than 4-5 a month we’ll do three (on the 10th, 20th, and 30th of each month). In part because designing a class and grading 75 assignments a day takes significantly more out of me, and in part because it’s my writing project, and I am answerable to no one…so you’ll get my updates when I write them and you’ll like it non-existent contemporary readers. (kidding)
Also…because I just need to post things so I can move on. I’m not worrying about pictures this time…hope you can imagine things.
Recap
Griz Biz
The University of Montana spent most of it’s last two weeks looking like a force to be reckoned with. Sure there is the win over Utah Tech, and an annual smackdown of MSU Billings (continuing their unbeaten run in the Grandma Di Derby). But they also notched huge milestones for the program. Midfielder Kathleen Atchinson got two goals, but the biggest one came against Oklahoma, one of the biggest sports programs in the country…giving the Griz their first win over a top 5 Conference school. As if that weren’t enough they also welcomed THE Ohio State University (another one of those prestige programs) to Missoula, got a record attendance at South Campus Stadium, and walked away with a draw.
And then things came unglued a bit. They lost to Colorado State at home, and after opening strong against Georgia Southern seemed to go all wibbly wobbly after the first goal dropping two in a row. But regardless of results, the Griz have played well with Ashlyn Dvorak has been great in goal and Delaney Lou Schorr remains a fulcrum in attack (playing the most minutes and notching three assists) and Eliza Bentley is doing your grandma Di (a fellow Billings Senior alum) proud as a super sub. The team righted the ship with a 4-0 win over Miami of Ohio, and draws in Corvallis Oregon and Easter Washington. They might not have been favorites coming into the season, but look out Big Sky, the Griz are for real.
Up next: @ Idaho, v. Weber State, v. Idaho State
Punjab Zindabad
Punjab kicked off their first ISL campaign. They filled out the roster bringing in Wilmar Jordan Gil to join Luka Macjen up top, and Sweden Fernandes (who is not Swedish) as an outlet on the wings. The defense built up with Suresh Meitei and Mashoor Shareef in front of Shibin Raj (who may push Kiran Limbu for playing time).
The result still has them looking for a way to win at this level. Kicking off against perennial contenders Mohun Bagan led to a 3-1 defeat, but Lucka Macjen did find the net, so let’s keep our hopes up.
Their next mission? Figuring out what exactly the nickname they’ve settled on is. The translations I read said “Punjab da Sher meant Punjab Tigers (you know with the orange), but every social media thing is advocating for Lions, and the hashtag is PunjabDaJosh…or Boys of Punjab…I’m totally lost.
Up Next: @FC Goa, v. Northeast United FC
Minnesota a la Mode…ah
The Loons had a much more eventful fortnight than the score lines suggest. Tying personal bogeymen Seattle is a good accomplishment, and hanging a 3-0 drubbing on Colorado at least spurred the Rapids to change their coaching. But the real icing on the cake came just last night, after being stymied at every turn by an intense and talented New England team (also going through their own coaching crisis). The Loons took their fifteenth corner, and in desperation sent up the goalkeeper, Dayne St. Clair, to help out, a move I’ve never, ever seen work before.
So naturally, it worked this time. St. Clair got the assist and the Loons fought back to claim a valuable point.
To celebrate flying high, the Loons then instantly crashed to the ground by taking leads and then losing it against Kansas City, St Louis, San Jose and a bizarre three goal capitulation against LA Galaxy.
Up Next: @LAFC, v. LA Galaxy (Owen’s big game)
What’s in Store at Rosenborg?
Returning from the World Cup, the Trolljenta had a heck of a run. It started with a first round cup match against Stabaek which ended up requiring 30 more regular play minutes, and would have gone to Overtime if not for the very late winner by Camilla Linberg mere moments after Stabek had fought back to equalize. Oddly it was their second end of game decider, with Sara Horte (she of the National Team call up, got an equalizer in the third minute of regular stoppage time. Horte and her crew were much stronger back in league matches with 2 goals allowed over three games, while the offense pumped in 16 from 10 different scorers (three a piece for Selma Magnusdottir and Cesilie Andreassen). The last win came in the cup semi-final against LSK Kvinner, which will give the women of Trondheim a chance to win their first hardware in the black and white
The men on the other hand? Well, my early wondering if the loss to Hearts would send them reeling was answered: a big fat honking yes. Though they had a 4-0 win over Aalesund they were promptly whomped by Tromso and quickly sold off some long-standing leaders including Samuel Rogers and Carlo Holse. (Holse did get his final team goal against Aalesund, and so did the new young gun Sverre Nypan). A draw against Bodo/Glimt and another walloping against Lillestrom.
Next: The Menn face Sarpsborg 08; the Kvinner face Asane
Live from Legon!
Ghana’s Premier League will kicked off with coach Paa Kwesi Fabin in the standard role of miracle working manager, but most eyes will be on Ebenezer Armegah in his first season as the front target, and captain Nicholas Mensah anchoring the back line.
That was a help in the team’s opening match as 19 year old winger Frank Antwi got a brace to give the Royals an opening day win. (The following 1-0 loss to Accra Lions was much more familiar) The team will be full of different faces this season, but will hopefully bring all the style we’ve come to expect from the Royals ( a lot of boasting and occasional follow through).
Next v. Aduana Stars, @ Nations FC
Grenoble’s Games
The men of the alps have remained unbeaten, but they also seem to have caught Emelec’s goalless draw bug, using three of 0-0s to stay unbeaten. Brice Mableu shows no signs of stopping and the defense remains stout as ever…but boy I miss Matthais Phaeton, and his attacking prowess. The offense came alive at the end of the month with three straight 2 goal efforts to win three straight matches. Jessy Benet and Pape Meissa Ba have been superb, and might have Grenoble fighting for promotion if they keep this up.
The women started their campaign for promotion from the third division of the French women’s league with with new coach Alassane Diakhite, and they seem pretty excited (and with good reason). They opened with two wins including one against old foes Nimes Metropole and Le Puy. Melanie Charbier led the way and maybe there will be double the reason to celebrate in Grenoble
Next: Guingamp for les hommes; AS Lattes and Clermont Foot for les femmes
County’s Bounty
Following the all to predictable 2-0 loss to Rangers, County bounced back with a little win against Kilmarnock that left their fans….a little cranky…. Simon Murray continues his great form, both driving towards goal and flopping like a spawning Salmon (which made him the focus of much Killy ire), but Ross Laidlaw stood up to a late penalty awarded in spite of Killie getting a goal on the offending play…it was wierd, but that’s life on the dark side.
The Stags seemed to pay the karmic consequences in the second half of the month. After a 1-1 draw against Livvy, they were manhandled by Aberdeen both in the league and in the League Cup Quarterfinals. Add to that a loss at home (to Hearts) and we regret cheering for the floppery.
Next: @ Dundee
Take a Sec with Emelec
As the Electricas cram their season into a rapid fire round robin of games it’s worth noting some strong showings. They notched a 3-0 win versus Guayquil City and a 9-0 against LA Familia. But the real drama came against 9 Octubre, where Madeline Ladines launched a gorgeous rocket to grab a tie against the toughest team in the group. (Unfortunately in the return leg, they came up short…but still managed to earn a spot in the final…against 9 Octubre…)
As for the men…there’s predictable news and good news. The goalless streak hit 5 matches before Miller Bolanos (who else) scored. 529 minutes of demanding perfection from Pedro Ortiz, or 529minutes longer than you should ask it of anyone took its toll on Emelec’s standings. A 3-1 win over Mushuc Runa helped as did Jaime Ayovi’s ability to score while not being named Miller Bolanos…but the Bombillos dropped another to Independiente del Valle (though they did score again).
Next; Cumbaya awaits the men, while the ladies kicked off before you likely read this post.
What’s the Word in ol’ Freiburg?
Freiburg was looking their old convincing self in the 1-0 win over Werder Bremen with the inemitable Vincenzo Grifo orchestrating the show. But the wheels came fully off the wagon in 5-0 drubbing against Stuttgart. New top goalie Noah Atubola followed that with another lousy game against Dortmund and the usually steady back line seemed to break down. A reinforced back line got a win over Olympiakos in the first Europa League game and a 0-0 draw against Frankfurt (where a more confident Atubola did great). An unsurprising common denominator: Vincenzo Grifo and Rolland Sallai.
The women kicked off their season against eternal powerhouse Bayern Munich, and after opening with a great goal from Janina Minge, they got a very late equalizer from Svenja Folmli to snatch a great tie.
Next: Men v. Augsburg, West Ham and Bayern Munich; Women v. Bayern
Gotta see this, Alebrijes!
While the 5-0 was bad, Freiburg can take solace that hey didn’t give up the 7 that Alebrijes conceded to Correcaminos. Octavio Paz’s return wasn’t enough to overcome Luis Mouret’s red card. But the team was back in shape with a come back win over Venados as young Kaleth Hernandez and Julio Cesar Cruz continue their mutually beneficial partnership. Cruz remains the primary goal scorer who found the net every time Alebrijes took the field during September (including against Tlaxcala, La Paz and in the big 4-0 win over Dorados). But the best moment for Alebrijes seemed to be when a dog ran on to the field…seems about right.
Next @ Atletico Morelia
What’s the haps at Vozdovac?
For the first time in your LIFETIMES, the Dragons notched a win against the prodigious Red Star Belgrade…home to facist gangs a plenty. 3-2 over red star, take that fascist pigs! Borisav Burmaz, Mihajlo Neskovic, and Danilo Teodorovic got goals and though Red Star tried to equalize late, the Dragons took all the points!
(Yes, they lost 2-1 to totally un-prodigious Napredak…and dropped another against Spartak Subotica on a last second penalty, but we still beat the fascist pigs…so I’m calling it a win!)
Next: v. Novi Pazar, and @ Cukaricki
News & Notes
Cue More Celebrations in Spain
It’s not great when instead of a ticker tape parade, you get a fussilade of negative press coverage and force the executives to become the story instead of the players. But it’s entirely in keeping with the mess that is Spanish Soccer right now. After many uneasy conversations about whether or not you can just kiss women on the lips when you feel like it (YOU CAN’T), both the coach and the Federation President have stepped down…finally.
Mothers of Dragons?
Abby Ostrem and Makenzie Langdok have both signed for Spartak Subotica. Which makes me ask the question, is Vozdovac interested in starting a women’s side? If so, can they start scouting with Aurora and the Griz?
Players
While the routine of these posts is changing, the number of people we have gratitude for is not. So, let’s hear it for four weeks of stellar play. We’ll take this time to shout out those who scored in major results: give it up for the Griz’s Delaney Lou Schorr, Vozdovac’s Borisav Burmaz, Grenoble’s Jessey Bennet and Emelec’s Madeline Ladines.
Standings
Every team is playing! Take a deep breath, because we’ll be full bore from now until late November. Also, every team is now above 1 point per game! (Of course, no teams are above 2, but we’ll take what we get.)
Honestly, at this point I want to know how long Emelec can go with 0 – 0 draws?
Hearts 3 – 1 Rosenborg (M–Europa Conference)
Isak Thorvaldsson scored early to build the hopes of a Rosenborg romp, but Hearts two goals in the second half gave Hearts a decisive edge in the game, in the two-way tie, and in the race to stay alive in the European competition.
North Dakota 0 – 1 Montana Grizzlies
Delaney Lou Schorr picked up exactly where she left off as the Griz’s leading scorer netted the winner against the Eagles!
Hoffenheim 1 – 2 Freiburg (M)
The Bundesliga kicked off with a familiar feeling as Freiburg brought their best game to the table. We actually watched a bit as a family with Alex insisting that the boys from Breigsau were wearing stripes, while Owen thought they were wearing a giraffe print. Whatever he wears, Roland Sallai makes a great threat and his goal was the difference as Freiburg came away with three road points.
Airdrieonens 3 – 4 Ross County (Cup)
The Staggies are still going in the ViaPlay league Cup, but it wasn’t for lack of trying. Holding a 3-1 lead after Kyle Turner scored and assisted within 90 seconds, The Stags defense proceeded to give away the store in the last ten minutes with a penalty and a late equalizer for the lower level opponents. Fortunately, Eamonn Brophy came through with a winner in additional time to move the Stags to the last 8.
Zeleznicar Pancevo 0 – 1 Vozdovac
The Dragons got their first win of the season with a quick long ball finding Niska Vujanovic who dribbled and slashed enough to find the net for the game’s only goal.
Grenoble 0 – 0 Troyes (M)
Grenoble didn’t win but they did remain unbeaten for this campaign.
HamKam 3 – 0 Rosenborg (M)
Before the game I was fantasizing that a continued run of good form could help Rosenborg back into European places, but they were too burnt out from the game in scotland to keep up with HamKam
Photo of Eliza Bentler by Ryan Brennecke
North Dakota State 1 – 3 Montana Grizzlies
The Griz got their second win in the Peace Garden State (all the more impressive because it tripled their win total from 7 previous games there). Within 15 minutes the Griz got three goals off of four shots, as Skyleigh Thompson, Riley Carolan and Eliza Bentler all found the net.
NYCFC 0 – 2 Minnesota (M)
We were able to watch a little of this as a family too…you know, when you weren’t dive bombing your mom or playing drink coaster tricks, but we didn’t get to see a goal. While you were falling asleep Jan Gregus struck back, and then I could see Miguel Tapias and Dayne St. Clair contort their frames to avoid giving up a penalty and save an own goal before Mender Garcia got a final goal to pull away.
Cimarrones 4 – 2 Alebrijes
Julio Cesar Cruz got the first goal, but Cimarrones stormed right back and the Alebrijes dropped another.
News & Notes
We Have a Champion!
Spain became the second country to win both a Men’s and Women’s World cup. Unfortunately it seemed to validate the widely disliked and player loathed coach Jorge Vilda.
It’s an unfortunate story-line to hear developed. But, honestly, coaches don’t play the games, and their effect is often over estimated. I’m going to choose to celebrate Olga’s winning goal, Aitana Bonmati’s golden boot, and Salma Paralluelo instead of Vilda (or the louche of a leader the team is also dealing with).
Other Cup-Dates
Rosenborg’s hopes of moving on to the next round of European competition were dashed with Hearts having a great showing in Edinburgh…but again, it’s Edinburgh, hard not to have a good time there.
That didn’t take long (via USA TODAY)
Meanwhile, Ross County will stand with their fellow premier leaguers in their cup quarter finals. Next up will be Aberdeen on September 27th, four days after they play Aberdeen in the league…so familiarity will breed…something.
The Loons might not like their quarterfinal flame out against Nashville, but since the Music City Men made it to the final there’s some solace (also a little solace in the fact that Lionel Messi dominated literally EVERYONE)
The Gang’s All Here!
With the Griz back in action we can fully appreciate the game from Mount Sentinel to the Punjab plain, from the Black Forest, to the Gold Coast’s brightest star.
Player of the Week
Kyle Turner! (Via SkySports)
One of the many things I love about team sports is how substitutes can make as much of a difference for a team as the stars. When that sub helps win a game, it’s great. When he goes out and helps win another…that’s flipping awesome. So Kyle Turner’s gumption stepping up as Ross County’s midfielder merits this week’s award.
Standings
For the first time in Months a team not named Punjab is at the top of our standings (though with the wonkiness of my internet connection the bottom of the standings may not be as accurate)
Team
W
D
L
PPG
GFA
GAA
Montana
2
0
0
3.00
2.00
0.50
Punjab
12
3
5
1.95
1.95
0.95
Minnesota
24
9
11
1.84
2.39
1.20
Rosenborg
23
7
15
1.69
1.69
1.09
Legon Cities–b
9
7
8
1.42
1.25
1.29
Grenoble
17
7
17
1.41
1.15
1.05
Emelec
8
12
9
1.24
1.72
0.97
Ross County
10
5
13
1.25
1.57
1.54
Freiburg
13
7
19
1.18
1.26
1.62
Alebrijes
6
7
9
1.14
1.27
1.45
Vozdovac
4
6
11
0.86
0.71
1.57
Table Updated 8/24/23 b–Team is between seasons
What’s Next
Thursday, August 24th
Montana Grizzlies v. MSU Billings (the Grandma Di Derby)
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.
A rough year only got tougher for Oaxaca. Memories of a dominant 2019 campaign are long gone. And they must be grateful relegation is cancelled for four more years.
Montana Grizzlies 5 – 0 Texas Southern Wildcats
The Griz got back to winning ways against an admittedly weaker opponent. Taylor Hansen (2 assists, 1 goal) seems determined to dominate the game like the bicep flexing badass she is.
Freiburg was fortunate to snatch another point despite their most lackluster showing of the season. Sometimes you’re good, sometimes you’re lucky. Both are valuable.
Celtic 3 – 0 Ross County
For 65 minutes it looked like County might continue to shock the Hoops. then the dam burst, and it was your typical Scottish smack down.
Grenoble 2 – 1 Nimes [M]
Les Grenobloises are down to a smattering of last year’s core. Fortunately sometimes a smattering still does the trick (like with brown sugar on oatmeal or applause and my ego). Credit to Maumadou Diallo for being the offense this week and Loic Nestor for continuing to be a boss at the back.
Bayern Munich 4 – 0 Freiburg [F]
We’re only three weeks into the season, but the Frauen auf Freiburg have gotten no points and no offense since Hasret Kayicki’s first week goal.
Ozzie not making peace
Seattle Sounders 1 – 0 Minnesota United
I had hoped we could watch a Lions win while cleaning the house. Instead you (rightly) demanded to play outside and the Loons looked to annoyed to capitalize on their chances. Adrien Honou continues to miss golden chances, and when professional troublemaker Ozzie Alonso is the voice of calm…you’re struggling to get it together.
Radnicki Nis 1 – 0 Vozdovac
The Red Dragons lost their three game winning streak on Sunday. But as 3 of their 4 wins this year have come from the bottom four teams of the table, there’s still reason to be cautious in praising coach Pedrag Rogan’s team or dismissing this as a one off.
Rosenborg 3 – 2 Tromso [M]
The Black and white looked to be on cruise control early on with Noah Holm and Emil Ceide running riot. But Tromso equalized through a pair of hopeful long balls and defensive confuzzlement. However the second line offense provided by substitutes Stefano Vecchia and Carlo Holse continued to threaten until they connected on the headed match winner late in injury time. It wasn’t quite as triumphant as it felt early on
LDU Quito v. Emelec
Postponed…see note below
Yzeure Allier 0 – 1 Grenoble [F]
Make it two from two for les grenobloises. Again it was one goal that made the difference, but this week the honors go to Andrea Commper Banguillot. The win on the road has put the alpiners on top of their division two group, ahead of a big visit from historic side Olympique Marseille in a few weeks.
Montana Grizzlies 1 – 0 Boise State Mustangs
And that’s why you don’t schedule cupcakes. Coach Chris Citkowski was validated in his choice to put the Griz up against some of the best programs west of the Mississippi this season by notching a signature victory, better still it was young talents leading the way. Camilla Xu has stepped up in goal to be a tough nut to crack in front of goal (all this as a redshirt freshman). While true freshmen (ie kids I could have taught in quarantine last year), Bella O’Brien and Delaney Lou Schorr connected to notch the goal against one of the top teams in the Mountain West. [Hat tip to the controlling defense of upperclassmen Caitlin Rogers and Allie Larsen and to Tommy Marino for the photo we used to head this post.]
The Oaxacans got their first win of the season! [Insert trumpet noises here]. It took a bit of doing, including a fortunate flick of the head by Josue Gomez, and a last minute winner for Jaidivert Hurtardo. But a win is a win and leaping up several spots in the standings is always welcome.
News & Notes
Alex 0 – 3 Playground Kid
I’m sorry to put you on blast big A but your little playmate, Lily, absolutely worked you. She ran on to every ball in space (and yes she did scoop it up and run with it like a football while you tried to explain how to play…but toddler rules are toddler rules man). It’s rough after you owned a six year old this summer, but hey like we say: girls are good.
No pay, no play
Referee for Rights
Emelec isn’t unbeatable, but they do have odds in their favor coming in to the end of the Ecuadorian league. But even they can’t win when referees aren’t able to call the game. Since the Ecuadorian federation hasn’t paid the referees in the local league for two weeks, the “arbitros” went on a mini-strike, affecting the premier game of the weekend.
Obviously, we would like to see Emelec continue to dominate the game. But we’d rather people get paid what they are owed. Go ahead Ecuadorian refs, get what you deserve.
Loic’s Surprised face
Player of the Week
Keeping the tiny trophy of our imaginations in the Alps, let’s pay some respect to Loic Nestor who has had to step up in a major way to keep Grenoble something close to afloat, and helped deliver a vital victory this last weekend (not to mention the ones he helped with during the last campaign).
Standings Update
One great week was all Grenoble needed to leap up four spots (it helped that a few other teams slipped up on the same week, but the middle table remains a tough battle.
MacKenzie's Boot Room 