I started this blog two years ago back before “pandemic” and “nasal swab” were words in daily conversation. It’s been wonderful to keep a hold of one normal-ish routine in a supremely surreal time.
Here’s how things shook out in 2021 among our favorite 11 sides on the planet.
Final Standings
Team
W
D
L
PPG
GFA
GAA
University of Montana
22
1
8
2.16
1.5
0.7
Rosenborg BK
41
9
15
2.03
2.3
1.2
Emelec
27
11
14
1.77
1.6
1.2
Punjab FC
8
4
6
1.56
1.2
0.9
Freiburg
26
11
23
1.48
1.7
1.5
Grenoble
22
10
22
1.41
1.2
1.2
Minnesota United
13
10
12
1.40
1.2
1.3
Legon Cities
13
10
15
1.29
1.1
1.0
FK Vozdovac
13
11
16
1.25
1.1
1.4
Ross County
14
9
20
1.19
1.3
1.5
Alebrijes
7
14
12
1.06
1.2
1.6
Table Updated 12/31/21
It’s one thing to have a superlative season after COVID, win your league and make a superb showing in unlikely circumstances. It’s another to do it again a couple months later. But that’s exactly what the University of Montana Griz did this year, and that’s why they ran away with this year’s cup. (U of M soccer jerseys are not available, but rest assured, I will find a way to be as close to full kit dork as possible.)
Emelec came away with the other 2021 trophy we commemorated on that part of the site, but couldn’t pass the dynamic duo of teams in Trondheim…even though neither of them won so much as a silver pudding spoon this year. Still, never bet against Julie Blakstad.
Most teams improved on the last campaign (which is saying something for as woeful as Alebrijes was), only Grenoble, Minnesota United, and FK Vozdovac saw regressions (however the Loons and the Dragons both stayed in good position for the standings…Grenoble, well…the spring was fun.)
Players of the Year
I so deeply enjoyed naming a team of XI favorites, that I took time to track the weekly award winners and sort out who showed up for their team week in and week out.
In goal it was a brutal choice: but We had to opt for the legend: Claire Howard who made the Griz so dominant in the spring and won a pair of player of the week honors.
The back line also had a strong set of selections to draw from. Attention had to be paid to four players who kept up the intensity at both ends of the pitch for four teams who broadly exceeded expectations. Jerome Mombris takes his second straight top XI selections while Romario Caicedo worked wonders in Emelec. Meanwhile Taylor Hansen was absolutely dominant as a Griz captain, and Christian Gunter was one of only three players to get two PoW winners.
The midfield sees two more repeat honorees on the left side with Julie Blakstad and Emanuel Reynoso returning with honors. The other side of the midfield sees two new names who are absolutely invaluable to their respective sides, with Jonah Attaquye masterminding the few attacks that have worked for Legon, and Hasret Kayici, you might say as she goes, so go die Frauen auf Frieburg.
Instead of shouting out the most dominant goal scorers at the spear head of the attack, we opted for decisive ones: Roundglass Punjab’s Chenchyo Geltsen and Vozdovac’s Nicola Vujnovic.
As for the bench, we had to slot the third double PoW winner here (sorry Kiran Limbu…you’re just not Claire Howard). The best defenses of the year (Legon and Rosenborg) came away with the two defensive bench spots: Erland Reitan and Joseph Adjei (the only honoree without a PoW). Joseph Hungbo’s recent run of amazing form and stellar goals gave him the rights to Ross County’s spot on the side, and Kristoffer Zacharissen’s dreamy eyes great leadership for half the year got him dropped onto the bench this year. Finally we kept the top scorers for two under represented sides as our scoring sparks off the bench: Adama Tamba for les femmes de Grenoble, and Kerly Corozco for las Electricas de Emelec.
This year we couldn’t find a way to work in a representative of Alebrijes: too many strong showings owed to the other side collapsing rather than an excellent performance on their end.
Finally, I just want to point out how tight the competition was for goalkeeper this year with three players who didn’t even get close to the bench: Winifred Honsu came out of nowhere to replace Fatua Duda in Legon, Pedro Ortiz remains indefatigable for both club and country, and Camila Xu thrilled us as just a freshman.
What’s Next
Let’s do it again shall we?
Oh, okay, maybe we’ll be more selective in our video taping (what with Alex starting to refuse and Owen mostly wanting to see himself…hmmm…maybe he’s got a future in punditry).
One thing I’m going to aim for in 2022: let’s see if we can get some conversations with people from the clubs…players…managers…confused communication interns…I’m not picky.
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.
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.
First, the big thing that happened: your grandparents went on vacation. That meant we got to play, and run, and wrestle, and tell stories, and bowl, and swim, and just about everything else. It also meant, that I did not have time to review such things as soccer highlights, or write about matches. So, here’s a recap of the last three weeks with notes about each team and how they fared starting with the two big stories from the end of July
Did Emelec win it all or get knocked out?
Manta 0 – 4 Emelec [M]
Liga de Marcas 1 – 1 Emelec [F]
Emelec 1 – 4 Deportiva Cuenca [F]
Deportiva Cuenca 0 – 1 Emelec [M]
Barcelona 3 – 0 Emelec [F]
Emelec 2 – 2 Aucus
BOTH! Let me explain
The men’s victory of Manta clinched the first stage title! Facundo Barcelo and Dixon Arroyo led the way as los bombillos celebrated their first taste of glory since 2018.
The women’s team did not fare as well, following a draw with the lowly Liga de Marcas with a pair of defeats to regional rivals that stopped them from progressing to the playoff portion of the season. [The commments on their see you next year tweet seem to be encouraging whole sale change]
— Club Sport Emelec Femenino (@ElectricasCSE) August 1, 2021
But, as the men start the second half of the season there’s still a good amount of hope that they can hoist the big trophy at year’s end, even if the draw at home to Aucus doesn’t exactly inspire dreams of a dominant campaign.
Were the Royals Relegated?
Legon Cities FC 3 – 2 Eleven Wonders
Miraculously, NO! Despite looking every bit the chaotic and relegation doomed side in the first half (when the Royals very much were looking at a season with a bloated payroll in a lower league), the Royals came back with goals from Hans Kwofie and Matthew Anim Cudjoe to save the win and jump from 16th to 11th place (it’s a little crazy in Ghana). [Though that’s only my read of the events]
Vozdavac’s Victory…and other outcomes…
Cukaricki 2 – 1 FK Vozdovac
Vozdovac 2 – 1 Proleter
Paritzan Beograd 4 – 0 Vozdovac
Serbia’s league kicked off with Vozdovac in much the same place that we lost saw them…struggling in the middle of the table. But now that the league only has 16 teams (as opposed to last year’s 20) the cushion at the bottom might not be as soft for the Red Dragons. In the duopoly of Serbia, your best hope is a tough defense…but the leaky new Vozdovac defense makes that uncertain. The highlight was surely Ivan Milosavljevic’s brace from beautiful runs to beat Proleter.
Troublesome Trolls
Rosenborg BK 0 – 2 Sandviken [F]
Tromso 1 – 3 Rosenborg [M]
FH Hafnarfjodur 0 – 2 Rosenborg [M–Europe]
Melhus 0 – 7 Rosenborg [M-Cup]
Rosenborg 4 – 1 FH Hafnarfjodur [M-Europe]
Orkla 1 -11 Rosenborg [M-Cup]
Yes, against all odds the only flaw in the ointment of Rosenborg’s recent run was the Women’s team who lost for the first time while repping the black and white in the league. Sandviken’s win gave the women something to think about for the last few weeks during the mid-season break, and hopefully they’ll be back to full strength this coming weekend.
Meanwhile the men ran roughshod over some (admittedly) lower wattage opponents, during the Eliteserien’s approximate mid-way point. Against lower level local clubs they ran up a stunning 18-1 goal difference with Dino Islamovic notching 5 between the two matches. Emil Konradsen Ceide also notched a hat trick and they head to the round of 32 without breaking a sweat.
The outlook is similarly bright in the hunt for a berth in Europe’s lowest league. Having decked their Icelandic opponents, Rosenborg is now set for a match with Slovenia’s Domzale and the winner of that is left with a pair of matches against French foes (and former home of the Loons’ Adrien Honou) Rennes. Factor in all these matches (plus the win at Tromso) and Dino Islamovic is up to 8 goals in his last 5 matches. Or enough for a blow out win against all their opponents combined. (Kudos also to Andre Hansen, Even Hovland and Adam Andersson for anchoring the overpowering defense).
Stellar Staggies Survive Sickness
Ross County 0 – 3 Dundee FC [Cup]
Bora Rangers 0 – 1 Ross County [Cup]
Ross County 4 – 1 Montrose [Cup]
Ross County 0 – 0 St. Johnstone
Yup, Ross County was not miraculously unscathed by the global pandemic and had to forfeit their second match of the cup thereby eliminating them from the competition before they ever kicked a ball. But, once they were able to run out (against lower level sides) they looked the part of a solid squad. Credit to the players for coming back from illness and getting prepped for kicking off the league with your standard issue goalless Scottish draw. (Thanks Ross Laidlaw and Alex Iacovitti for being the new powers behind County’s class, Blair Spittal for the world class goal, and YouTube User RossCounty 1929 for the highlights and pump up music..)
Loons Land Safely
Minnesota United 1 – 0 Seattle Sounders
Minnesota United 2 – 1 Portland Timbers
Los Angeles FC 2 – 2 Minnesota United
Vancouver Whitecaps 2 – 2 Minnesota United
With the European Cup competitors back in the fold the Loons hoped to sail into a trick series of games with some renewed energy. They succeeded.
Robin Lod has shone since I gave him up as a lousy waste of space last year and notched three goals to help the team along, but the stars are still unquestionably Emmanuel Reynoso who makes miracles happen with the ball at his feet (even while he has struggled to connect with other players on the field) and Hasani Dotson who has grown into the kind of player you just want to see on the pitch wherever possible because he’s always got something going for him. After a dismal start to the year, the Loons have gotten back into the playoff hunt (even if the Delta Variant’s resurgence has made taking either of you to a game an impossibility at present).
Good God, Grenoble!
Grenoble 0 – 4 Paris FC
Auxerre 3 – Grenoble 0
Well…that was a rough way to start off a new campaign.
Grenoble looks utterly wiped out, and the once powerful defense has been absolutely ripped from pillar to post. Brice Mableu, Loic Nestor, Jerome Mombris, and Adrien Monfry have given up 7 goals, supported none, and though it is very VERY early in the campaign, last year’s 4th place team is bottom of the barrel.
Alright Alebrijes!
Pumas Tobasco 0 – Alebrijes 0
Alebrijes 0 – 1 Cimarrones
Meanwhile, frequent strugglers Alebrijes of Oaxaca got a point…against a strong team in Pumas…on the road!! And while that came without a single goal scored, we’ll take what we can get with Alebrijes. (Especially given that they then dropped a match at home…but only by 1 goal!!)
News & Notes
Gosh Dang it Ghana!
I love Ghana. I really do. I love soccer, that should be obvious. But man, Ghanaian soccer makes it hard to love the two together.
Hashmin Musa being the hero…or not…
Here’s the latest drama: the Ghanaian police and Football Association are investigating match fixing…again. Yup, the same thing that destroyed the previous Ghanaian Premier League, threatens to destroy the new version within just two years! [A new record pace perhaps?] The dead rubber between top tier Ashanti Gold and relegated Inter Allies was always likely to end lopsidedly, but the dimwitted defense and goalkeeping that made it 5-0 were dubious. Then…came Hashmin Musa…who absolutely, no doubt, by his own admission scored own goals on purpose and pissed off his goalie to no end.
Musa claims that he was ruining the prearranged 5-0 score line…but the possibility that someone paid him even more to make it 7-0 is still out there and…because it just wouldn’t be as messed up as possible unless Legon Cities were also involved…the sudden barrage of goals to save the wealthy and high profile Royals from relegation is also coming under question. Suffice to say, there were plenty of ugly defense to help the Royals find the net, but there were also a few moments where it would have been easy to throw the game but players and referees didn’t oblige..so…[shrug emoji] So despite extended questioning and possible further destruction of the domestic game, Legon Cities is safe, for now.
Goodbye sweet prince
Best of luck Kristoffer!
The Transfer Market hulaballoo has tempered down as Ross County set their line ups through surgical masks and Vozdovac vets the team their sending out, but there’s still action, including a painful farewell.
Kristoffer Zacharaissen is too good for this humble corner of the internet where we gawk at his chiseled jaw bone and make allusions to Schitt’s Creek because we can’t really break down his game effectively. Whatever the case, he has left Rosenborg for greener pastures and greener kits joining Hungary’s Ferencvaros, a side with a shot at the top league in Europe (and a chance to be brutally repressed by Viktor Orban…so, keep your nose clean Kristoffer)
Roster Updates
A few other notes as we missed kickoffs for Grenoble, and Oaxaca and got back just in time for Freiburg.
Oaxaca
As a lower division team in the middle of a global pandemic/recession, Alebrijes did not have a lot of extra cash to throw around, so the lean mostly on loans (both in and out). While forward Ricardo Monreal is probably the biggest name to depart, there are several defenders who also left the fold (Daniel Cisneros, Oscar Torres, Yohan Zetuna, Jair Cortes, Fernando Plascencia).
The only defenders who have come in are Ernesto Reyes of Cimarrones, and youngster Adrian Vazquez on loan. Instead, Oaxaca focused on bringing in some more veteran attacking presences. Most notable: Cristian Panesso a Colombian coming in from Portugal, and Leandro Torres an Argentinian coming down from Liga MX. Local and familiar faces from the league around them, Armando Gonzalez, Lizandro Echeverria, Miguel Vallejo, and Alexis Conrado.
Grenoble
Sign this man!
After Phillipe Hirchenberger led the side quite well for 3 years, he left for Amiens and new man Maurizio Jacobacci made a big swap. Yes, Grenoble did something I never expected,and am frankly broken up about: they said farewell to leader and mastermind Jessy Bennet (more shockingly Jessy still hasn’t signed anywhere…and he’s only 26…seriously…Ross County…Legon Cities…Punjab… ANYBODY!! GET JESSY BACK!)
Willy Semedo, Kevin Tapoko, and Haroun Demba also left, but the club did net 1.5 million euros for Moussa Djitte’s move state side. (Sad but less shocking that Jessy (SERIOUSLY! I WILL PAY PART OF IT MYSELF!!). The side got a lot younger in response (without spending much of anything), bringing in Georgian Winger Giorgi Kokhreidze and two 20 something Swiss midfielders from FC Basel: Yannick Marchand and Orges Bunjaku.
Freiburg
Welcome aboard Nishan (center)
Our German reps opted against a spending spree this year…so much so that they haven’t spent a thing.
Gone are Chang-hoon Kwon (back to South Korea), greatly improved goalkeeper Florian Muller and attacker Guus Til, and up to the senior squad come six young players, none older than 21. The most intriguing players coming in are attacker Nishan Burkart (who learned the game at Man United), Noah Weishaupt (who has surged up the depth charts on the left side), and keeper/local boy made good Noah Atubolu
Freiburg and Grenoble’s women’s teams will get another month of prep kicking off August 28th (in Germany) and September 5th (in France)
Player(s) of the Week(s)
We’ll put three players on the pedestal for the past three weeks. Let’s tip the hat to Rosenborg’s attack and defense by admitting that Dino Islamovic’s attack has been ridiculously good, and that Even Hovland has done it all on both sides of the pitch. Our third award winner has to be from the new trophy winners in Ecuador: Emelec, and to keep it all balanced, midfielder and team leader Dixon Arroyo gets our nod.
Islamovic and Horvland celebrating their awards (and probably wins)
Standings Update
We had to break down to three decimal points for the first time ever! Freiburg, Ross County, and Grenoble are splitting hairs, it’s hardest for Grenoble who plummet from 4th to 9th. Meanwhile the Loons leap up to fifth and are getting closer to the top tier of teams.
While the Loons attack had been in great form coming in, the absence of an increasingly reliable backline made things shaky and the reshaped midfield struggled too. And, of course, because it was a game in Colorado, one Loon got a red card (this time Ramon Abila did the job, maybe if we get two more we’ll get a free bucket of Rocky Mountain Oysters…)
Forfar Athletic 3 – 0 Ross County [Cup]
County had to forfeit their competitive opener this year after a number of players contracted COVID-19. [See News below]
Lyn Fotball 1 – 2 Rosenborg BK [F]
Despite a late Lyn consolation goal, Rosenborg continues to roll through their opposition. The Emilies (Bragstad and Lein did the job this week), and Rosenborg will head into another top of the table clash (this time with unbeaten Sandiviken) looking to keep the streak alive. (Don’t tell anyone but this might hinge more on Rugile Rulyte continuing her great form in goal)
Rosenborg BK 1 – 0 Kristiansund [M]
Dino Islamovic returned to form with the game winner early on, and for only the third time this campaign, Andre Hansen kept a clean sheet. (Alexander Tetty helped out after moving to center back…and my befuddlement at the lack of Tetty/Zachariassen pairings continues to fuel my Rosenborg FanFic.) It was also great to see Emil Konradssen Ceide run over a number of fools en route to a flurry of chances (even if they didn’t find the net)
CS Emelec 2 – 0 Tecnico Universtario [F]
Don’t look now but las Electricas are on a streak! (Is two a streak…let’s say it is) again Kerlly Corozo found the net and the goalie stood firm (psst, Emelec, necesita cambiar la pagina de la pantilla. No se el nombre de su arquera primera)
— Club Sport Emelec Femenino (@ElectricasCSE) July 10, 2021
Elmina Sharks 2 – 0 Legon Cities FC
This was…not good. The Royals rolled over for a team at the bottom of the table in Ghana and now they face a difficult end of the campaign with relegation lurking around the corner.
News & Notes
Decision Day South of the Equator
This weekend two leagues wrap up their campaigns with our favorite clubs at different ends of the spectrum.
First the good news: Emelec remains in the driver’s seat of the Liga Pro in Ecuador. With a three point lead and one game to play, Emelec needs only a point against 11th placed Manta to seal their first half championship (and with it a guaranteed shot at the title and a trip into the big daddy of South American sports, the Copa Libertadores). There is a nightmare scenario where a loss and rival Barcelona winning would knock them to second, so it ain’t over yet.
Buckle up, it’s about to get wild (photo from ghanasoccernet.com)
Meanwhile, in Ghana, Legon Cities remains desperate to provoke a heart attack before the end of the campaign. Having dropped a winnable game away against Elmina, they now face accusations from the victorious Sharks of fielding an ineligible player Defender Mohammed Issaka multiple times. If approved by the premier league board, Legon would forfeit a bunch of matches retroactively and plunge into relegation. How did Elmina figure this out? Simple, Issaka earned two yellows as a member of the Sharks in the fall, and then one with Legon. Of course, rather than point this out immediately, Elmina waited until now…because…ya know…reasons…
Meanwhile, someone NOT waiting to make an inappropriate move is the Legon Cities board who has brought on a special assistant coach (Maxwell Konadu) who definitely isn’t about to take over for their existing head coach (Bashir Hackford). I mean, that would be silly…besides lots of teams bring on extra assistants with two matches before the end of the season. And it’s only natural for assistant coaches to not coach with the head coach because it would be “tense”. [Narrator voice: It’s not].
Add to all that fun background that anything less than a win against Eleven Wonders this Sunday would provide an opening for Liberty Professionals (cross town rivals), Ebusua Dwarves (forced to forfeit to Legon), and Elmina Sharks (remember them from two paragraphs ago?) to leap past the Royals and send them packing for the lower leagues. Woof.
[Disgruntled growl]
I mentioned a few weeks ago that Franco Frangapane was accused of using a racial slur against a dark skinned player from the Portland Timbers, the following investigation concluded that only two people (Frangapane and the aggrieved Timber) know if he did or not, and they disagree…so [Shrug Emoji] what ya gonna do? [Hint: Bench Frangapane yourself Loons, at least for a game or two]
Minnesota United FC apoya inequívocamente los principios de inclusión, igualdad y respeto, tanto en palabras como en acciones, por nuestro deporte, nuestra Liga, nuestra comunidad y nuestra sociedad. No hay lugar para el racismo, la homofobia o la misoginia en ninguna forma. https://t.co/4aniFCEYWi
You might think that with countries opening and stadiums welcoming all the fans back at once, we’ve turned the corner on the germs. But as Ross County showed this week…NOPE. An undisclosed number of player and coaches turned up positive, and while the club claims they’ll be back in action soon, we’ve not heard an update in a week. So…whee…
Dragons Fly Again
The season is due to start up in Serbia again this week, with Vozdovac taking on Cukariki. It will be a little different look for the team who said goodbye to two long term members this offseason: Marko Gajic, a reliable defender since 2017, and attacking midfielder and frequent team captain Jovan Nisic. Meanwhile they added…well…a bunch of defenders. Nemanja Cvetkovic seems to have some clear talent from his last year in the 2nd division, but it’s yet to be seen if Stefan Jarakovic or Vasilije Mijalovic can stack up to what Gajic provided. Last year’s loanee Pavle Radulovic also returns but he has big shoes to fill if he’s expected to make up what Nisic was to the team.
Vincenzo Grifo appreciation post (even though he didn’t play for Italy this tournament….we miss him)
A Couple of Trophies
A few other news organizations covered this, but Italy won the European Cup, and Argentina won the South American Cup. Congratulations to Giorgio Chialini, Vincenzo Grifo, and Lionel Messi. I can’t think of anything else I could add of service.
Player of the Week
No one really shone this week, but that just allows us to finally tip the cap to Alexander Tetty of Rosenborg who has been a massive boon to the black and white since his arrival.
Standings Update
It is a log jam in the middle of the table with Legon, Freiburg, Ross County, and Minnesota separated by 2 hundreths of a point per game (and in some cases, only by goal difference). The Staggies will kick off again soon while the Royals are about to draw the curtain on this campaign, while we’re officially half way through the year there’s still a lot to play for.
To be fair, this game might have been a little dull, but it probably didn’t help that the women’s team was kicking off an hour later less than a block away. The guys were probably distracted.
Rosenborg BK 2 – 1 Klepp [F]
A late equalizer from Klepp nearly undid the Rosenborg winning streak and unravelled the home side’s dominance. But, cometh the hour, cometh the Utland, and Lisa-Marie (making a rare substitution appearance) netted the winner just moments later
CS Emelec 3 – 1 Carneras UPS [F]
Kerlly Corozo hit the back of the net twice on both a rebound and a header for an opportunistic brace that also gave Las Electricas a vital come from behind win. More of this please!
— Club Sport Emelec Femenino (@ElectricasCSE) July 4, 2021
Minnesota United 2 – 2 San Jose Earthquakes
This was it, our first live sports outing since the fall of 2019. Your mom did not like the crowds, and I really only felt comfortable once I was seated and savoring the match. But it truly felt great to be surrounded by other people, screaming, shouting and singing when Brent Kallman scored from his impossible angle. (I also left very impressed with the dynamic Niko Hansen, stalwart Michael Boxall, and endlessly inventive Bebelo. We left before the Loons went ahead (and long before they were thwarted with a draw), but it was all worth it.
Legon Cities FC 1 – 1 Bechem United
Again the Royals attack gave their opposing goalie a chance to shine. Jonah Attaquye’s opener set the tone, but not the standard with a flurry of chances again going lacking. A late kerfuffle resulted in captain Michael Empedu being shown a red card for…uh…being animated? We’ll have to wait to see how his absence affects the end of the campaign.
Odd 2 – 2 Rosenborg BK [M]
In a not remotely shocking turn of events, Kristoffer Zachariassen was named man of the match and notched a goal in his return to the midfield. (It seems as though Alexander Tetty pushes the build up into the middle of the field but the Rosenborg strengths are in finishing wide crosses…so something’s gotta give.) A late equalizer keeps the boys’ winless spiral a spinning with top 4 side Kristiansund and an attempt to get into European competitions next on the docket.
Valerenga 1 – 2 Rosenborg BK [F]
This one was sweet. Having gone unbeaten last year but still losing the title on goal difference to Oslo’s Valerenga, this time the Trolljenta topped another great team and boosted themselves into sole possession of first place with their 7th straight win. It wasn’t easy, in fact it took a pair of late goals and a stunning Rugile Rulyte penalty save to save them from their first defeat since becoming part of the RBK family. But those late goals weren’t just redemptive, they were the last step to dominance.
With the Scottish Cup set to kick off this week, Ross County has done a little more work in replacing some of the long standing fixtures of the side. So it’s tioriadh to Gardyne, Vigurs, and Draper; Halo to Ross Callachan, Dominic Samuel, Jake Vokins and Alexander Robertson. Callachan and Samuel have multi-year deals so here’s hoping that they provide what the forerunners did. Meanwhile Vokins and Robertson have headed north on loan deals from Premier League clubs Southhampton and Manchester City….yes…League Champion, global legend coach Pep Guardiola…Man City…it’s probably a bit early to be banking on the young men to dominate all of Scotland, but we’re here for it.
Djitte’s New Dude (photo from Insider)
A Non-McConaughey reason to cheer for Austin FC
Look, we get it, Academy Award winner/bongo music enthusiast Matthew McConaughey is a bit of an attraction for the more indifferent soccer fans in the weirdest city in Texas. But, just a week after leaving Minnesota for the last time this season, the green and black of Austin announced the signing of Grenoble attacker and one of our local favorites Moussa Kailou Djitte. It has not been established if McConaughey himself spoke to Djitte, but we hope that Moussa greets him with “d’accord…d’accord…d’accord…” (ahh…weird French translations of meme’d McConaughey lines).
Player of the Week
Much as the softies in us want to give it to Hasani Dotson for proposing, you can’t deny a vital brace from veteran striker Kerlly Corozo to boost Emelec’s chances by beating the second place team in their division.
We salute you Kerlly!
Standings Update
It is a log jam in the middle of the table with Legon, Freiburg, Ross County, and Minnesota separated by 2 hundreths of a point per game (and in some cases, only by goal difference). The Staggies will kick off again soon while the Royals are about to draw the curtain on this campaign, while we’re officially half way through the year there’s still a lot to play for.
The Loons announced their return to full stadia with authority in a strong shutout win lead by the newly terrifying trio of Bébelo, Frangapane and Adrien Honou. We stayed home to take care of a sick baby Owen, but hopefully the convincing win is the best medicine.
Legon Cities FC 1 – 2 Hearts of Oak
Falling behind quickly to local giants Hearts of Oak was predictable. The eventual loss was too. But Victorian Adebayor’s goal, will hopefully be the boon to the teams last four weeks (with far less fearsome opponents)
Lillestrom 2 – 0 Rosenborg BK [M]
In Round 1 of the Lillehammer/Trondheim tilt of the weekend, the gentlemen were wrong footed from the beginning. The attacking line couldn’t find a way through, and Even Hovland and Kristoffer Zachariassen were uncharacteristically poor. I’m not sure why Åge Hareide insists on putting Zachariassen, one of the country’s best midfielders, in attack rather than next to fellow excellent midfielder Alexander Tetty, but…here we are
Lillestrom Kvinner 0 – 3 Rosenborg BK [F]
Lillestrom Kvinner (or LSK) was the only team to beat Rosenborg last year, knocking the otherwise indomitable Trolls out of the cup competition. Lillestrom looked quite capable of challenging Rosenborg again, but the defense held firm and Kristine Nostmo stopped anything within her reach. Better still, Julie Blakstad was quite ready to take it to the rivals. Our favorite winger netted twice to lead a trouncing in Lillehammer to split the club series.
Macara 3 – 0 CS Emelec [F]
Another loss by las eléctricas raised the question of when to shift defensive strategy or staffing completely.
Portland Timbers 0 – 1 Minnesota United
The Loons were quick to strike with that blitzing trio of attackers in Portland, but hopes of a big win were dashed as a defensive showcase broke out with arguably the best game by the back line all year. So tip the hat to Michael Boxall and Bakye Dibassy for shutting down the space in front of goal (and of course Tyler Miller for coming up whenever he needed to).
King Faisal 2 – 0 Legon Cities
After a solid but ineffective showing against Hearts of Oak, the Royals should feel disappointed not to get points against the struggling Insh’allah boys. Their last three matches remain vital to survival.
News & Notes
Disappointing
Be Better Franco [From MLS]
Franco Frangapane has done quite well since his addition to the Minnesota line up. Unfortunately, that’s tempered by accusations that he used a racial insult towards an opponent (Diego Charra) in Saturday’s win.
The matter will be investigated, but if true we’ll be enduring Frangapane more than cheering. If not, he’s got a way to go to get us cheering again.
International Affairs Update
South American CopaAmerica
Pedro Ortiz was demoted from the starting spot with minimal improvement for Ecuador, a 2-2 draw with Peru and a 1-1 draw with Brazil. Shockingly that was enough for Ecuador to back in to the knockout stage.
European Euro Championships
With the end of the group stage came the end of the road for many of our favorite players.
Despite another Roland Sallai assist and a late lead against Germany in Munich, Hungary drew their last match to finish last in their group. Our regret for Sallai is surpassed only by our delight that special snowflake Viktor Orban gets no second act.
Finland leaves with memories [Photo from UEFA]
It’s hard to tell which is tougher, Finland’s elimination as one of the two weakest third place teams (despite strong showings from Lod & Raitalta) or Slovakia finishing as the other weakest team with only token appearances from Jan Gregus. Both are left wondering, what if…
The only two Bootroom XI reps in the Round of 16 were Phillip Leinhart and Christian Gunter. Sadly neither made the field and both saw their teams bounced out of the competition (albeit by a surprisingly slim margin in the case of Leinhart’s Austria)
Player of the Week
Franco Frangapane has played well and behaved badly. That’s never an issue with Julie Blakstad. Let that be the message this week: you can never go wrong with Julie Blakstad
Sara Kanutte summarizes our feelings if we ever meet Julie Blakstad [Photo from RosenborgKvinner Instagram]
Standings Update
A big two win week for Minnesota sees them catapult off the bottom of the table and up into 6th.
Las Eléctricas were clicking in their local Derby, with Adriana Valenzuela notching the first and celebrating the result with style. Even better news, we’ve finally got highlights!!
— Club Sport Emelec Femenino (@ElectricasCSE) June 20, 2021
Dallas 1 – 1 Minnesota United
The Loons came out well and faded in the Texas heat. Franco Frangapane got his first in the black and blue off a direct rebound and the team generally looked more organized in the back. The squandered chances and desperate last second saves of the second half were a little underwhelming, but, that’s a little picky. Soon, we’ll have tickets of our own to use.
Rosenborg BK 0 – 1 Sarpsborg 08 [M]
With Kristoffer Zachariassen serving a one game suspension, the trolls lacked an attacking edge. Despite new man, Alexander Tettey, looking strong as a midfield partner, the forwards continue to struggle (sorry Dino Islamovic and Emil Ceide, I love ya but it’s true).
Rosenborg BK 1 – 0 Avaldsnes [F]
The Trolljenta remain unbeaten as Lisa Marie Utland offered all the offense they needed. (Especially as they’ve yet to ship a goal in 2021 the defense was ready to stop everything in the same area code. For Rosenborg one goal might as well be 100). It’s just the result they need before facing fellow unbeaten Lillestrom Kvinner.
News & Notes
International Affairs Update
South American CopaAmerica
Pedro Ortiz really ought to have done better against perpetually underwhelming Venezuela. But despite Ecuador dominating control and most of the chances, Pedro let in two of the three chances he faced and La Tri only managed 1 point.
In another news, Owen’s response to Neymar’s dribbling was just to say “Dance! Dance!!” He’s not wrong
The Euro Tournament is in full swing and so are some of our favorite players. (Still not Christian Gunter though)
Our Robin Lod versus Real Madrid’s Eden Hazard (Telegraph)
The Finnesota contingent again looked good with Robin Lod linking lots of good passes into the attack while Rasmus Schuller and Jakku Raitalta held their own against Russia (even though the Finns lost). They didn’t look as good in the loss to Belgium (though it’s hard to ever look as good as Belgium)
Phillip Leinhart again came on for Aleksandar Dragovic at Austria’s right back. But it was too late to stop the Dutch attack from notching a two goal win. (Likewise Jan Gregus’ late showing for Slovakia versus Sweden).
Rolland Sallai had the best showing. Creating frequent chances against the world champions France and delivering an assist that had Hungary ahead for a bit, before the French fought back for the draw.
Victor Orban’s A Special Snowflake
Most powerful man in Hungary can’t handle kneeling, because he’s too tired to get up that far.
Hungary’s home matches in Budapest have been rowdy, enthusiastic affairs. They’ve also had a consistent sampling of homophobic, racist, and fascist overtones. Weirder still, asked why he was cool with booing anti-racism (thus effectively cheering racism), prime minister/former right winger/current right wing demagogue Victor Orban said:
If you’re a guest in a country then understand its culture and do not provoke it…Do not provoke the host. We can only see this gesture system from our cultural vantage point as unintelligible, as provocation.
Victor Orban press conference reported by Bein Sport
So, to Orban, players kneeling silently is the same as someone daring you to punch them. Solemnly opposing racism is unintelligible because Hungary didn’t have slaves, which is the only racist thing ever,. And, apparently when in Hungary for a 90 minute game, you can’t possibly think about anything other than how Hungarians think of it. No word on how our favorite Hungarian (Roland Sallai) is responding. Hope you look for ways to stand for those in greater need Roland.
Coyle Goes Green
Griz striker Alexa Coyle will continue her career in beautiful Edinburgh playing for Hibernian Ladies. Having visited Easter Road, I’m pumped (not as pumped as I would be if she was joining a Ross County women’s side…but as that doesn’t exist, I suppose it’s ok).
— Club Sport Emelec Femenino (@ElectricasCSE) June 19, 2021
Standings Update
The Loons grabbed another point but their return keeps them entrenched at the bottom of the barrel. But the Ladies kept both Emelec and Rosenborg going strong near the top of the table.
Las Electricas showed up to play in the Guyaquil Clasico. It was only their 5th point all campaign, but even sweeter for coming against their long time rivals.
— Club Sport Emelec Femenino (@ElectricasCSE) June 12, 2021
Karela United 2 – 0 Legon Cities FC
The goodtimes ran out for the Royals as Karela continued to vie for a spot in the African Champion’s League. Despite the recent strong form, Legon is still just 6 points clear from relegation with ten games to play.
Stromsogodset 2 – 1 Rosenborg BK
Rasmus Wiedesheim Paul got the Trolls off to a great start by capitalizing on a defensive mistake. But it all came undone in the last half hour when our dreamboat Kristoffer Zachariassen ceded a penalty and then Stromsogodset continued their near ceaseless pressure to win it in the end.
News & Notes
International Affairs Update
Three matches is our low mark for the year, but let’s take a moment to recognize the other players in international duty.
Asian World Cup Qualifiers
Kiran Limbu Chempjong wrapped up Nepal’s campaign with a strong showing against Australia. (Nepal lost 3-0, but making 9 saves was a pretty good shift for Kiran.) We hope to see him again someday and wish him well as he leaves Punjab.
Chang Hoon Kwon had a short shift in the lopsided drubbing of Sri Lanka and another great outing in South Korea’s win over Lebanon to top their World Cup Qualifying group (next to our most favorite-est player right now: Hyung Min Son)…Chang Hoon is, like Kiran Limbu, headed back home to play for Suwon Bluewings in Korea. But may not stay there for long.
North American World Cup Qualifiers
Dayne St. Clair didn’t get another go in goal as Canada let top keeper (and Red Star Belgade’s choice man) Milan Borjan, complete the first step and help the side get all the way in to the final stage of qualifying.
South American CopaAmerica
Getting the start in the opener of the CopaAmerica, Pedro Ortiz was unlucky to give up the only goal of the match to Colombia, and unluckier still to get zero offensive support in the match.
European Euro Championships
It’s easy to pick on him…
The Euro Tournament is in full swing and so are some of our favorite players. Well..not Christian Gunter, who has has still yet to see the field for Jorgi “Love my Boogers” Low (though let it be a sign to you that you can pick your nose and still win a world cup). Rolland Sallai was vital to helping Hungary keep reigning champs Portugal scoreless (until he left the field and they ran up a 3-0 lead). Jan Gregus got a late run out to shore up the defense in Slovakia’s win over Poland. Meanwhile in two first ever tournament wins, Phillip Leinhart kept the defensive shape while David Alaba ran rampant for Austria, and Jakku Raitalta and Robin Lod stood side by side in their victory over Denmark (though that win was…awkward).
Major Tournament Moments
It’s worth noting that Finland’s victory came after Denmark’s most dynamic playmaker (and another of our favorites), Christian Eriksen suffered a mid-match heart attack. Eriksen’s teammates wanted to play on, and Finland made the most of it…but clearly there are a lot more important things than a game winner in that moment.
Speaking of more important things: Structural Racism! England has created a routine of kneeling in protest of said racism, and…because people will do stupid things when they don’t understand something…some are booing that (notably, supporters of anti-immigrant British politics, and hard right wing Slavic countries (looking at you Hungary)). Kneeling won’t end racism, but creating an antagonistic atmosphere against calling it out actively prolongs it. So, again, Screw You Systemic Racism.
With very little to choose from in the club side, let’s shout out Chang Hoon Kwon coming into his own for South Korea this last week. Well done Kwon!!
Chang Hoon Kwon in the win over Lebanon, we’ll miss him in the Red/Black of Freiburg
Standings Update
An unimpressive week doesn’t drop anyone down the standings, but Legon is right to notice that their fourth place position is slipping ever closer to the mid table.
It took a little bit, but the Royals took the win at home over Uncle T. Richmond Antwi had to shoulder the load with both strong runs and a booming shot from outside the box in order to overcome the lower tier side. But a win’s a win and progress is progress. And HEY! Asamoah Gyan was on the pitch for 30 whole minutes!
Deportiva Cuenca 6 – 0 Emelec [F]
This would be one of those times I’m ok NOT seeing highlights. Oof…
Arna-Bjornar 0 – 2 Rosenborg [F]
Rosenborg’s ladies’ side remains defensively perfect this season and unbeaten in their entire league history. Again Lisa Marie Utland and Julie Blakstad drove the attack but credit also goes to Kristine Nøstmo on her third straight shutout.
SC Freiburg 5 – 0 Meppen [F]
Meppen needed a win to have a chance at avoiding relegation. Freiburg did not oblige. the onslaught started quickly with Janina Minge. Rebecca Knaak, Sandra Starke, and Marie Muller, quickly followed and Meppen’s hopes were truly dashed
Legon Cities 1 – 0 Inter Allies
The Royals have finally found their form, winning their third straight this time courtesy of Cephas Doku’s looping header, didn’t hurt that Inter Allies is sitting at the bottom of the table, but they all get you three points. We saw the return of Fatua Duda in replacing Sylvester Sackey after an ugly injury early on in the match. Duda’s return was…adventurous…but effective none the less.
News & Notes
Minnesota Grows the Game
There will be a new team in our community next spring, as Minnesota welcomes a pre-professional women’s league. The team will be led by a women’s ownership group, and aim to create an inclusive and equitable organization. It will not officially be linked to Minnesota United, but as we want to include the top talents in the local areas around each side, we’ll be happy to include them in next year’s boot room. (Even more so if they look to the west and see just how awesome University of Montana players are….dare we dream of a Mimi Eiden Homecoming?!?)
While most of our teams are out of action, we can bring a few updates from a few players who saw the field in international matches this week.
Asian World Cup Qualifiers
We don’t get a lot of traffic from China anyway…
Kiran Limbu Chempjong pitched a shutout against Taiwan (unless you’re a foolish autocratic Winnie the Pooh look a like, in which case he did it to “Chinese Taipei”). But he ceded 3 goals to Jordan. So…a mixed bag as befits Nepal’s standing in Asia.
Chang Hoon Kwon had a stellar showing in South Koreas win over Turkmenistan. A goal an assist and a heap of great passes made him man of the match.
North American World Cup Qualifiers
Dayne St. Clair kept a clean sheet in another drubbing for the Canucks (It did help that opponents Aruba didn’t get a shot off).
South American CopaAmerica
In the last tune up qualifiers before the Copa America neither Pedro Ortiz nor Dixon Arroyo saw the field.
European Euro Championships
Most Euro teams are in their final tune ups for the big tournament, but Kristoffer Zacharriassen did make his debut for Norway’s national team in a match with no impact on anything. Hopefully he can influence events a littl emore soon. Meanwhile Jakku Raitalta turned in a good showing in a discouraging loss for Finland (dropping to lowly Estonia isn’t going to boost much confidence, I’m afraid). Jan Gregus and Phillip Leinhart battled to a draw in Austria and Slovakia’s warm up. Meanwhile Christian Gunter was a substitute for Germany in both of their games, while Ermedin Demirovic was wrapped up without a shot on goal in Bosnia’s match with Denmark,
Player of the Week
We are unabashed Rosenborg fans here, and as Lisa-Marie Utland continues the thrilling showings of excellent and dominant performances by Troll Jenta attackers. She’s been in superb form to start the season, and she is our player of the week (shown here hoisting long time Boot Room Fav Julie Blakstad up for a hug)
Blakstad and Utland…Bravissimo (from @RosenborgKvinner on Instagram)
Standings Update
Freiburg’s women’s side took their season bow this week, putting another team in the clubhouse for the time being. More substantially, Rosenborg continues their quest to repeat as champions closing the gap on the Griz at the top of the standings and Legon Cities leaps up again to fourth place
It was not pretty, but it was effective for Rosenborg. A fine showing in goal from Andre Hansen kept Sandefjord at bay and made up for some sloppy defense, and Guillermo Mollins’ stoppage time slap dash strike secured the three points.
Rosenborg 3 – 0 Kolbotn [F]
In their first match against our first favorite Troll Jenta (Marit Clausen) and her new team, the ladies of Rosenborg looked completely unfazed. The incessant attack put Rosenborg in command early on and kept them there when, despite a goalless first half, the three goals came quickly after with the force of Bragstad, Blakstad and Utland.
Real Salt Lake 1 – 1 Minnesota United
While the Loons were lackluster (again) on the field, they have more than a few injuries to contend with (and a new striker in Adrien Hunou who is still finding his feet with the squad). There were chances created, but quality shots were still hard to come by, here’s hoping Bebelo Reynoso is ready to go for the next part of the season (and that Tyler Miller shares goalkeeper secrets with Dayne St. Clair)
Emelec 4 – 1 LD Juvenil [F]
I told you it was a matter of time! Sure enough, Las Electricas showed up to play and brought home a big win with four mighty goals. (Again…highlights would be helpful, but for now let’s enjoy this big smile from Josylene Borbor after the side’s second goal).
— Club Sport Emelec Femenino (@ElectricasCSE) May 29, 2021
Ashanti Gold 0 – 1 Legon Cities FC
The Royals got a second win in a row (something about Ashanti Gold allows them to be in fine form), and with a final ruling giving them the win over Ebusa a month ago, that makes 4 out of 5 for Legon Cities. This time they capitalized on some very questionable Ashgold decisions, and with Victorien Adebayor causing trouble every where they turned, Isaaka Mohammed knocked in a rebound from a free kick just before half time to get the win.
Rosenborg 4 -2 Stabaek[M]
The Trolls’ defense continues to be suspect, but as long as the attack is flying as high as it has been lately, many sins can be forgiven. Again Kristoffer Zachariassen was a human Visa Card (everywhere you wanna be), but it was nice to see Emil Ceide show up with some sparkling play to lead the come back in the second half as well.
Emelec 0 – 0 Independiente del Valle [M]
Emelec’s offense was shut down for the first time in the local league since March 21st. With two matches left in the first half of the season, the apertura title is almost in grasp, so a slip in form is not the end of the world, but with little margin for error and a match against 2nd place Barcelona on tap, the pressure’s only going to build.
News & Notes
Staggies Say What?!?!?
So…we’re Ross County through and through. That’s our origin, that’s our family symbol, that’s our side. But the last week has uh….not been great for County.
Mr. MacKay (Scottish Sun)
John Hughes’ departure was understandable. The team’s replacement hiring of Malky MacKay was less so. MacKay has a manager’s pedigree. He’s got experience at the top flight of England and the international level. He’s also got a habit of insulting people based on their sexuality, race, and religion. So….not ideal.
County Fans were understandably upset by the appointment, and we’d like to join them in their protest. We will follow and support the Stags during the matches during McKay’s tenure, but we won’t purchase any club paraphernalia during that time.
But just in case there were any bridges left untouched, the team then released a number of players including long time club fixtures and relegation saviors Ian Vigurs and Michael Gardyne. No farewell, no final lap of honor, not ideal. So yeah, Staggies we love you but…whoo boy.
Ghana’s Cup Action
While most of the next week will feature the women’s game, we will get a few matches for Legon Cities, including their Round of 64 tie against the junior side “Uncle T United”, there’s not much to say about that except, once again…there’s a team in Ghana called Uncle T United. (They would be our team if we had an Uncle T…but until then, Legon Cities it is!)
International Affairs Ahead
With the onset of summer comes a plethora of intenational contests: qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup in Asia and North America, and the top continental prizes in Europe and South America. As we hit this shift in seasons, we’ll provide periodic updates on the players that we track most closely.
Asian World Cup Qualifiers
Recent Punjab Keeper, Kiran Limbu, will be in the goal during World Cup Qualifiers for Nepal. He may have returned to Nepal this offseason, but he’s still number 1 in our hearts. (At least among keepers in Asia… #ClaireHowardForever). Meanwhile Chang Hoon Kwon will try to build on a good year of development at Freiburg with a few appearances in South Korea’s qualification campaign.
North American World Cup Qualifiers
Dayne St. Clair is the lone representative fighting for World Cup qualification in North America standing alongside the Canadian National Team
South American CopaAmerica
The trophy chased by the most boot roomers
While the tournament has bee in a terrible state of flux (owing to unrest and covid cases in the original hosts they moved to the one country that has plenty of BOTH! Brazil), Emelec’s reps are quite consistent. Pedro Ortiz and Dixon Arroyo will represent Ecuador
European Euro Championships
It’s a Freiburg heavy contingent, with Roland Sallai playing for Hungary, Phillip Leinhart in the back for Austria, Ermedin Demirovic likely to lead the line for Bosnia, and Christian Gunter hoping to hit the pitch for perennial power Germany. Minnesota will have a few attendees as well, with Jan Gregus repping Slovakia and the teammates of Robin Lod and Jakku Raitalta seeking to boost the Finns in their first major tournament.
Player of the Week
In the last few weeks, Legon has gone from bonafide bottom dwellers to confident mid-table side. (Sure there’s still only 3 points between them and the drop, but the form and style have been awfully encouraging.) To that end let’s recognize the biggest game changer the Royals have, Niger’s Victorien Adebayor whose impact goes beyond the score sheet into creating and complicating opponent plans.
Adebayor (Center in White)
Standings Update
As we head into the summer slowdown, Rosenborg is making the most of their continued presence on the pitch and (in addition to topping both men’s and women’s leagues), are sneaking up behind the University of Montana. Meanwhile, Legon Cities jumped ahead of Ross County and is almost set to pass up top tier finishes in Grenoble and Punjab (despite struggling to escape the bottom of Ghana’s table).
MacKenzie's Boot Room 