Tag: Legon Cities

Week 19: Wait and See

Week 19: Wait and See

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Scores

Tolima 1 – 1 Emelec [Copa Sudamerica]

Los Bombillos had to wait two days to get their match against Colombia’s Tolima (and it happened in Peru just to keep things safe). For the first time in the continental contest Emelec ended up falling behind and then, only managing one point in the contest. The extraordinary circumstances will hpoeful make it a rare occurrence but we’ll have to see.

Guayquil City 1 – 0 Emelec [F]

Las electricas are back in action against one of their local rivals. Unfortunately the return wasn’t quite as thrilling as they might have liked and after grinding out the narrow defeat, they’ll have to reorganize and bounce back quickly.

Hertha BSC 3 – 0 Freiburg [M]

This should be exhibit A in the more maddening pieces of inconsistency in Freiburg’s season. A crushing loss to a relegation side…oof…

Auxerre 1 – 1 Grenoble [M]

While Grenoble jumped out to an early advantage courtesy of an Auxerre own goal it couldn’t stand up for the whole match. Brice Mableu saved a possible winning penalty in his return to the lineup, but the rotating fullbacks (Abdel Abdallah, and Haruna Demba) couldn’t contain Auxerre fully.

Barcelona SC v Emelec [M]

Because Emelec had to push back their match against Tolima and change course to Lima Peru, they weren’t going to be ready for their big battle against rivals Barcelona SC and so, the match was pushed back until further notice.

Colorado 3 – 2 Minnesota United

Seriously. I mean…Seriously. The Loons had a 2-0 lead within a half hour. And then they just crumbled like a cicada shell under a toddler’s foot.

Vozdovac 4 – 2 Napredak

A brilliant and well earned win for the Red Dragons. They didn’t so much get over the line as they did batter the door down until Napredak had to give in. Milos Stojcev’s brace was well earned, but I was particularly heartened to see the distribution and daring accuracy of winger Aleksander Stanislavejic who had a critical part to play in the first three goals. The win vaulted them past Napredak in to 10th. Of course that’s till just two points clear of relegation…so…there’s much to do, especially before facing Partisan this weekend.

Koln 1 – 4 Freiburg [M]

Hmmm…note to self: when Nils Petersen and Vincenzo Grifo play most of the match things seem to go markedly better….I wonder why…

SC Freiburg 3 – 1 SGS Essen [F]

It’s been a while since we’ve seen the ladies of Breigsau have such a dominant performance. (And with Magenta Sport sharing only 4 matches of Freiburg highlights all season…it’s even longer since we’ve actually SEEN IT seen it). Again Hasret Kayicki was critical to the win, but she was joined by Naomi Megroz, and Jana Vojtekova.

Ebusa Dwarfs 0 – 1 Legon Cities

It was a solid opening from the Royals, with some sturdy defending (thanks Joseph Adjei) and absolutely rugged attacking (thanks Victorien Adebayor), but then…well…see notes from News section below

Valerenga 1 – 1 Rosenborg [M]

At the start of the Norwegian campaign, the Rosenborg roller coaster got off to a rocky and rainy start. Sloppy defending ceded a slew of chances and–eventually– Even Hovland scored the first goal of the year into the back of his own net. Fortunately, midfielder and unnaturally handsome man, Kristoffer Zachariassen got the equalizer before the half on a fine cross from Vebjorn Hoff. Zachariassen also helped link the team together including new Swedish target Stefano Vecchia. They’ll get another test in a few days, strangely before other teams play their first match.

Emelec 0 – 0 Macara [F]

Las Electricas didn’t have to wait long for their first point of the season, but we’re still awaiting that elusive first goal.

Red Bull Bragantino 2 – 0 Emelec [Copa Sudamerica]

Los Bombillos closed out their travels in Copa Sudamerica in Brazil with their first loss. They’ll be home to wrap up the group stage and will have to be on point to hold on to their slim one point edge over the Brazilian corporate entity (Note: Emelec was founded as a corporate entity, so we don’t have much to brag about…but still)

News & Notes

Less Important

We love soccer, but it isn’t as important as democratic principles. So, here’s a cheers to all those protesting the militarized police response to peaceful protests in Colombia.

My Kingdom for Clarity in Liga MX

So…there was a playoff in Mexico, not that it was publicized, or discussed, or reviewed around the world. So a month ago (!!) Oaxaca played their last match of the season, a 6-0 thrashing at Zacatecas. Disappointed as we are to miss the end of the year, we’re more confuzzled by the machinations that lead to bottom of the table teams paying fines that help…bottom of the table teams??

Cruelty in Cape Coast

The Royals match with the Ebusa Dwarves was called off after several fans threatened the referee. It only adds to the drama surrounding the Royals as they are desperately scrapping to avoid relegation and mired in a will-they-won’t-they manager sacking affair (with a league winning coach waiting in the wings). Will they get badly needed points from a forfeit? Will other teams accept that? Never a dull moment in Legon.

Le fin de saison

M. Hinschenberg en repose

This weekend sees the end of Grenoble’s regular season campaign in Ligue 2, but may not be the end of their overall campaign. There are three teams fighting for two remaining playoff spots to face Toulouse. Win or draw against Rodez and Grenoble live to fight another day. Lose, and they need either Auxerre (facing recently eliminated Sochaux) or Paris FC (facing relegation battlers Chambly) to lose.

Slainte…

Hughes holds the Staggies high

By the next time we check in Ross County’s season will have come to an end after two crucial games this week. First a game against bottom of the table Hamilton Academical a win there and a loss for Kilmarnock will leave the Staggies safe before their final match. Any other result and the match with Motherwell on Sunday will be an absolute must win. While many County fans seem resigned to their fate (and excited about competing against teams at our level), the financial boon of big sides visiting Dingwall can’t be understated.

Player of the Week

In a week without a lot of victories (sorry Emelec), it feels worthwhile to recognize one of the best showings for one of our many teams fighting off malaise and the drop to a lower league. In that Aleksandar Stanislavejic stands apart for enabling and supporting the vital victory for Vozdovac, just two weeks away from the end of their year.

Thumbs up indeed Aleksandar

Standings Update

With four matches in the week and zero wins in the bunch Emelec’s reign at the top came to an end, with the Griz now well perched atop the table. Meanwhile, Rosenborg’s debut puts them one step above the turd bucket season that has plagued the Loons so far

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana–b9022.452.10.6
Emelec10432.001.71.1
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Freiburg113111.441.61.5
Grenoble Foot8771.411.31.2
Legon Cities FC5561.251.30.9
Ross County6291.181.21.6
Alebrijes-b4761.121.42.1
FK Vozdovac5581.111.01.6
Rosenborg BK0101.01.01.0
Minnesota United0040.00.82.5
Table Updated 5/12/2021
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, May 12th

Legon Cities v. Liberty Professionals

Ross County v. Hamilton Academical

Minnesota United v. Vancouver Whitecaps

Thursday, May 13th

Rosenborg v. VIking

Friday, May 14th

Saturday, May 15th

Freiburg v. Bayern Munich [M]

Partizan Belgrade v. FK Vozdovac

WAFA v. Legon Cities FC

Grenoble v. Rodez [M]

Emelec v. Guayquil City [M]

Minnesota United v. FC Dallas

Sunday, May 16th

Motherwell v. Ross County

Bodo/Glimt v. Rosenborg BK [M]

Monday, May 17th

Tuesday, May 18th

Week 18: Bowing Out

Week 18: Bowing Out

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Scores

Novi Pazar 0 – 2 Vozdovac

It was a critical win for the Red Dragons. Taking all three points from fellow relegation battler Novi Pazar. The full on blitz put them two goals up inside of five minutes, with Aleksandar Bogdanovic and Stefan Purtic dealing the blows and they never looked in danger of fading. With four games left, staying up isn’t a guarantee, another strong road showing in six days would be an even bigger help [TO BE CONTINUED IN THIS POST…]

University of Montana Grizzlies 0 – 1 University of South Carolina Gamecocks [NCAA Tournament]

The Gamecocks had the Grizzlies on the back foot for most of the match. They had 10 shots on target compared to Montana’s 2, but the Griz had Claire Howard. Her new team record of 9 saves served the squad well and kept them close throughout the match. Unfortunately South Carolina got the game’s one break, and the Griz’s best season ever in rankings ended earlier than they would have liked.

Emelec 3 – 0 Red Bull Bragantino [Copa Sudamerica]

Los Bombillos continued their strong showing in the continental competition. This time standing up against Brazil’s representative to the Red Bull Empire. Alejandro Cabeza continued his fine form, netting the final goal while Pedro Ortiz pitched his second straight Copa shutout.

LSV Kvinner v Rosenborg [F]

Another week, another ladies league on hiatus. Rosenborg and the rest of the Toppserien will be back at the end of May.

Dundee United 0 – 2 Ross County

Boy did the Staggies need that. Jordan White and Alex Iacovitti scored in quick succession to give the team an edge on the road. Then Iacovitti and his back line buddies blockaded the goal giving Dundee a scant 3 shots, none of which were particularly close. It got them out of danger for the moment, before a match in two weeks against Hamilton that could doom their opponents and save themselves.

Legon Cities 0 – 1 Asante Kotoko

Don’t get me wrong, I like the Royals, but the hands down coolest name will always be “the porcupine Warriors” of Kotoko. An early goal boosted one of Ghana’s most decorated teams to the top of the league…the Royals, on the other hand, are still scuffling near the bottom of the table.

Minnesota United 0 – 1 Austin FC

Doom and gloom abounds after another home defeat. Erstwhile favorites Brent Kallman and Chase Gasper are close to persona non grata in online fan circles and after falling to the bottom of the whole league some serious questions are ahead for a “dark horse” contender.

Orense 2 – 3 Emelec [M]

After racing out to an early lead (made possible by Pedro Ortiz stopping an early penalty), Los bombillos almost gave it back. Fortunately the team held on to salvage Sebastian Rodriguez’s pair of penalties and a perfect chip from Alexis Zapata.

Grenoble 1 – 2 Clermont Foot [M]

Willy Semedo’s last gasp penalty was too little for the alpiners who officially lost their shot at automatic promotion. Their match at Auxerre on Saturday could clinch a playoff spot or keep us in suspense.

Mladost Lucani 1 – 0 Vozdovac

[CONTINUED FROM ABOVE…] unfortunately, a double in the week was not to be, as Vozdovac ceded the decisive goal right before half time. With three games to go, no one can afford to be complacent or defeated. The crunch match on the weekend with Napredak would go a long way to soothing anxiety before an expected thrashing against Partisan Belgrade in two weeks.

News & Notes

Last Dance

It’s definitely with a tear in our eye that we say goodbye to this iteration of the University of Montana Grizzly Soccer team. Even though we’re only joining the party this year, we’ve really enjoyed cheering for the ladies of Zoo Town throughout this campaign. We want to wish a very happy future to the seniors: Taylor Stoeger, Alison Monroe, Rebekah Burton, Catie Buck, Avery Adams, Rita Lang, Brooke Johnston, Mimi Eiden, and Masters students Alexa Coyle and Claire Howard.

Congratulations to the students, their families, and all the supporters who helped them obtain their degree. It’d be cool if you boys play sports, but we’d really love it if you worked as hard in the classroom as these women did.

Au Revoir, Grenobloises

In the rush of news from the last week, we missed that the French Football Federation (FFF) did in fact cancel the remainder of the 2nd Division season for women. So, Grenoble’s ladies will be out of action until the fall when, hopefully, they’ll get to play a full season for the first time since 2018-2019

Player of the Week

In this blog we stan Claire Howard, but we ought to recognize that other people play goal keeper too. Including Pedro Ortiz who has followed his fine showings for country with dominant performances for the club, putting Emelec in contention for both domestic and continental glory this year. He’s like the Claire Howard of Guayaquil.

Thank you Pedro

Standings Update

Emelec’s double over the week boosted them to the top of the table, but with the Griz on hiatus until the fall, any slip will put the garnet and silver back on top.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Emelec10212.462.21.0
University of Montana–b9022.452.10.6
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Grenoble Foot8671.431.31.2
Freiburg93101.361.51.5
Legon Cities FC5561.251.20.9
Alebrijes4751.191.51.9
Ross County6291.181.31.6
FK Vozdovac4581.00.81.6
Minnesota United0030.00.53.0
Rosenborg BK-b000–––
Table Updated 4/27/2021
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, May 5th

7:30 Tolima v. Emelec [Copa Sudamerica]

Thursday, May 6th

11:30 Hertha BSC v. Freiburg [M]

Friday, May 7th

Saturday, May 8th

1:00 Auxerre v. Grenoble [M]

6:30 Barcelona SC v Emelec [M]

9:00 Colorado v. Minnesota United

Sunday, May 9th

6:30 Koln v. Freiburg [M]

7:00 SC Freiburg v SGS Essen [F]

10:00 Ebusa Dwarfs v. Legon Cities

1:00 Vozdovac v. Napredak

1:00 Valerenga v. Rosenborg [M]

Monday, May 10th

Tuesday, May 11th

7:30 Red Bull Bragantino v. Emelec [Copa Sudamerica]

Week 17: A Rough Road Ahead

Week 17: A Rough Road Ahead

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Scores

Ross County 1 – 3 St Mirren

The Staggies finally fell into the danger zone after their defensive collapse at home against St. Mirren. Coupled with Kilmarnok’s cruising win against Dundee, the pressure is truly on the Staggies to get a result against one of the better teams.

Talleres 1- 2 Emelec [Copa Sudamerica]

Los bombillos opened their quest for continental glory with a fine comeback win in Argentina. Pedro Ortiz was put through his paces against an aggressive and fluid attack, which he (mostly) defended well). Fortunately Emelec stars, Facundo Barcelo and Romario Caicedo, were able to make their connections count beautifully as the game wound down. They combined to set up both a hand ball penalty and a well taken short angle goal to win against the flow of the match. (Side note: Talleres goal scorer and selfie-celebrant Franco Frangapane is heavily rumored to be the latest Argentine attacker bound for Minnesota)

Troyes 3 – 1 Grenoble [M]

A win at the league leaders would have gone a long way to justifying Grenoble’s case for promotion. But despite Anthony Belmont’s opening goal it wasn’t to be, as seven attackers overwhelmed the alpine defenders.

Freiburg 1 – 1 Hoffenheim

While Hoffenheim was in fine form throughout the match and seemed to keep Freiburg permanently on the back foot. Fortunately, Freiburg capitalized when their best chance of the match led to a penalty by one of their best players, Vincenzo Grifo. Grifo’s injuries put him on the sidelines right around the same time Freiburg cemented their spot in the mid-table.

Vozdovac 2 – 1 Cukariki

It was frustrating to see the Red Dragons biggest win of 2021 see them stick on the cusp of relegation. Ivan Milosavljevic buried an absolute screamer to take the lead. Aleksa Jankovic, drew a decisive late penalty. Beating the third place side in Serbia should have been a celebration, instead the dragons stayed stuck near the bottom of the table and were left to wait and hope that the Cukariki comes through against other relegation scrappers.

Minnesota United 1 – 2 Real Salt Lake

The Loons hopes for a playoff run are already looking rough. Constrained by injuries and players out of position, they’ve been burned twice now. We are hoping things are a little less uh…burny…from now on.

SC Freiburg 0 – 3 Eintracht Frankfurt [F]

It’s a been a hard go of it for the ladies from Breigsau. Hoping for smoother sailing ahead.

Legon Cities 1 – 1 Dreams FC

The Royals started with approximately seventy bajillion crosses. However, it paid off when Hans Kwofie broke the early deadlock with a well placed header. But Legon couldn’t hold on to the lead for long enough to take all the points.

Órense v Emelec [M]

A rise in local Covid cases led to Ecuador postponing the match (at least it hasn’t affected the women’s league…yet)

News & Notes

Dancing Shoes

The University of Montana has landed and is training eagerly for their big match in the NCAA tournament. It’s clear from the write up that the team doesn’t have much expected of it in a match against one of the best non-seeded teams in the tournament. The Griz will be bringing the veteran mindset, the improved offense, and the sterling record of Claire Howard against a perennial contender from South Carolina with talented seniors and star freshmen.

New Contest

The Copa SudAmericana isn’t quite the glamorous affair that several other contests might be, but it is a continental battle and, as such, is worth a mention.

The second tier of South American scuffling sees teams who didn’t triumph face off in a group stage followed by a tournament for each group’s winners (and those eliminated from the more prestigious Copa Libertadores). Los Bombillos have a group with contending sides from Argentina (Talleres), Brazil (Red Bull Bragantino), and Colombia (Tolima). There’s a long way to go, but Emelec’s form in Ecuador should make them very excited to fight at a higher level.

Super League Shut Down

I told you that this didn’t matter. Sure enough, a few hours after I posted last week’s update, the supposed “super league” collapsed in a crashing heap of public relations face saving and crying softly into a slightly smaller pillow stuffed with money.

Few if any people complained about the crossing borders, or the quality of play, but the unfairness and unwillingness to risk demotion smacked of greed and shortsightedness. So, out of fear that it might all come undone, almost all the teams bailed. The question of whether they are really in serious financial peril or not remains to be seen.

Player of the Week

After a rough week, there’s not a lot to choose from, but we’ll give the nod this week to Ivan Milosavljevic whose thunderous shot helped steer Vozdovac back towards success.

Standings Update

Nothing changes in this week’s table as Minnesota sinks lower, while Vozdovac inches closer to Ross County. The Griz stay on top, but a lopsided loss (as has happened regularly against top seeded opponents) might drop them down to well within striking distance of Emelec and others.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana9012.72.10.6
Emelec8212.42.01.0
Grenoble Foot8661.501.31.2
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Freiburg93101.361.51.5
Legon Cities FC5451.331.30.9
Alebrijes4751.21.51.9
Ross County5291.11.31.7
FK Vozdovac2571.00.71.7
Minnesota United0020.00.53.0
Rosenborg BK-b000–––
Table Updated 4/27/2021
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, April 28th

11:00 Novi Pazar v Vozdovac

University of Montana Grizzlies v University of South Carolina Gamecocks [NCAA Tournament]

7:30 Emelec v Red Bull Bragantino [Copa Sudamerica]

Thursday, April 29th

Friday, April 30th

[NCAA TOURNAMENT 2ND ROUND V Georgetown Hoyas IF APPLICABLE]

Saturday, May 1st

8:00 LSV Kvinner v Rosenborg [F]

8:00 Dundee United v Ross County

10:00 Legon Cities v Asante Kotoko

7:00 Minnesota United v Austin FC

8:30 Barcelona SC v Emelec [M]

Sunday, May 2nd

7:00 SC Freiburg v Eintracht Frankfurt [F]

Monday, May 3rd

8:00 Grenoble [M] v Clermont Foot

Tuesday, May 4th

Week 16: Best in the Big Sky!

Week 16: Best in the Big Sky!

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Scores

Universidad Catholica 2 – 3 Emelec [M]

Doff your caps to Alejandro Cabeza. The young striker raced out to a brace in 10 minutes and got his hat trick in the second half. Just what every Ecuadorian side wanted to see, another in form striker for Los Bombillos.

Leones Negros 1 – 1 Alebrijes

It took just about everything that Alebrijes had to keep up the pressure throughout the match. Johan Alonso took charge of the right flank and peppered a wide array of opportunities that went awry. In the end, the greatest contribution came from Center Back Oscar Torres, who played a critical role at both ends of the field: disrupting a barrage of Leones’ attacks and being in the right place at the right time to net the equalizer.

University of Montana Grizzlies 2 – 1 University of Northern Colorado [Big Sky Semifinal]

After a steady and solid season Taylor Stoeger got a great moment to shine in the conference Semifinal. She was instrumental in the midfield and delivered the golden goal in overtime to get the Grizzlies to the much awaited and much deserved conference final.

Seattle Sounders 4 – 0 Minnesota United

That wasn’t great, but the video we sent to trash talk our Sounders friend Aly was.

Freiburg 4 – 0 Schalke

Boy did Freiburg need this one. Christian Gunter blasted some beautiful goals and Roland Sallai made his presence felt. (Oh also, Schalke is terrible, but every win gets 3 points.)

Dunkerke 1 – 1 Grenoble

Speaking of beating bad teams, it’s something les Grenobloises have failed to do lately. It probably owes something to Jekyll/Hyde games like Maumodou Diallou whose first half assist was mitigated by his second half red card, forcing a team fighting for promotion to simply play not to lose against a team battling to avoid relegation. Their next four all come against teams jockeying for playoff position too so, this time next month things will be great or absolutely not.

University of Montana Grizzlies v. Northern Arizona University Lumberjacks [Big Sky Final]

CANCELLED DUE TO NAU VIOLATIONS OF COVID PROTOCOL–Griz named champions by default

As Homer [Simpson] once said, “the two sweetest words in the English language: De-Fault!!”

TBA Guayaquil City v Emelec [F]

Que soprisa!! Another delay to the women’s league. We’ll see if May 1 proves more lucky than March or April.

Wolfsburg 3 – 2 SC Freiburg [F]

Hasret Kayikci continued her strong showings but Wolfsburg blasted back to confirm their place among Europe’s elite.

Medema 2 – 1 Legon Cities

The Royals made a comeback even without top Center Back Joseph Adjei who got red carded in the first half. Adjei’s absence was felt on Medema’s second and game winning goal 8 minutes from time.

TSC Backa Topola 4 – 1 FK Vozdovac

This thumping put the Red Dragons firmly in the relegation scrap. Napredak’s great form has capitalized on Vozdovac’s lousy showings. One reason for hope: 3 of the last 6 will be against fellow fighters separated by goals and two points. Here’s hoping the turn around is straight ahead.

Emelec 2 – 0 Técnico Universarito [M]

I hope you boys learn to love beauty in life. Hugs from little kids when they are sleepy, your mom’s smile, monsoon mists in Mussoorie. Caciedo and Barcelo dominating Ecuador isn’t quite at that level, but it’s getting close.

Grenoble 2 – 0 Sochaux [M]

It was quite a crunchy match in the offing with Sochaux on the outer edges of the playoff scrap. A win would have made their last months extra tense. But while Sochaux’s energies seemed to unsettle Esteban Salles, they also led to foolish errors that earned two penalties for Grenoble (both of which were duly buried by Jessy Benet). The win gave a little more breathing room for Grenoble (now 7 points clear in the playoff spots) but likely knocked Sochaux out of the running for progression.

Mineros 6 – 0 Alebrijes de Oaxaca

That was…what’s the word? Bad. That was bad.

News & Notes

Big Sky Superlatives

With the Griz getting both the Northern Division trophy AND the Big Sky trophy we have the first hardware won by any team on our Favorite XI. But the fun doesn’t stop there.

Four Griz were named to the All-Big Sky team: Holding Midfielder Avery Adams, Wingback Taylor Hansen, Striker Alexa Coyle and (quelle surprise) goalie Claire Howard were named best in the conference at what they do. Howard also won the Goalkeeper of the Year honors (not a shock with her record breaking form). Centerback Alli Lang was named to the second team and attackers Rita Lang and Taylor Stoeger took home honorable mentions.

The Griz came into the year as favorites to win, and they delivered. Now all that’s left is…

The Big Dance

The NCAA tournament is one of our family’s favorite events. You boys got a taste of that this year when we went to Grandma and Grandpa’s, ate tasty snacks, talked with family, and played and played and played. While we usually watch the basketball tournaments, Soccer has one too. This year’s tournament will be in North Carolina (one of the biggest hotbeds for college competition in the country).

Thanks to their regular season dominance (and the Lumberjacks’ illness) the Griz are Charlotte bound to be part of the Fabulous 48, and the chance to play into the thrilling thirty-two.

Up first a game with the South Carolina Gamecocks. If you extrapolate out the regular seedings the Griz would be 12th seeded in the region of 12 (45th of all 48 teams). The Gamecocks were a potent force in a powerful league, which means the Griz will be an underdog for the first time this year…but that’s a fine place to be. Win and the Griz tie a best ever season showing, lose and they still have a couple pretty Big Sky trophies in tow.

Superliga Feminina Forever

As in forever waiting to start.

This delay’s irrational cause for optimism that this time it’ll really happen. A detailed and stylish schedule tweet from the official league account! Surely a graphic designer’s work is always respected and honored.

Super League Salvos

The biggest news in soccer this week is the promised beginning of a new European Super League. This will be the 15 biggest clubs in Europe (plus five of their friends) raking in oodles of money, while their former opponents just make gobs of money.

Depending on who you ask, this is either a bad idea or a sign that the world is nearing an implosion of epic proportions. League officials are threatening to banish the big sides. Global leaders in the game claim that they’ll impose harsh fines and punish the players. Fans are mulling boycotts. It’s a fraught subject that brings to mind questions of “nationality”, “tradition”, “fairness,” and “global society.”

None of which matters to you two in the slightest. After all, you are under 4, by the time you bring full attention to any sport this league will either be an established institution or a bygone bit of trivia. Still this is my sporting journal of our times, so…there’s the big news.

Player of the Week

Jessy Benet had a huge impact on Grenoble’s standing for the end of the season, but Alejandro Cabeza had far and away the best performance, the least we can do is acknowledge it again here.

Bienvenido a nuestro casa Alejandro

Standings Update

The Loons debut provides a much appreciated cushion to FK Vozdovac in at least one table as Freiburg and Legon Cities continue to jockey for the advantage in the middle of the table.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana9012.72.10.6
Emelec7212.32.01.0
Grenoble Foot8651.61.31.1
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Freiburg9291.451.61.5
Legon Cities FC5451.361.30.8
Alebrijes4751.21.51.9
Ross County5281.11.31.6
FK Vozdovac2570.80.61.7
Minnesota United0010.00.04.0
Rosenborg BK-b000–––
Table Updated 4/20/2021
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, April 21st

1:45 Ross County v St Mirren

Thursday, April 22nd

2:00 Talleres v Emelec [Copa Sudamerica]

Friday, April 23rd

Saturday, April 24th

8:00 Troyes v Grenoble [M]

8:30 Freiburg v Hoffenheim

10:00 Legon Cities v Dreams FC

1:00 Vozdovac v Cukariki

7:00 Minnesota United v Real Salt Lake

Sunday, April 25th

7:00 SC Freiburg v Eintracht Frankfurt [F]

3:00 Órense v Emelec [M]

Monday, April 26th

Tuesday, April 27th

Week 14 & 15: Spring Break in Play

Week 14 & 15: Spring Break in Play

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

A note: I might have gotten behind, but if I hadn’t I wouldn’t have been Owen’s pillow or Alex’s marble run co-designer. I’ll take a delay for that trade

Scores

Olmedo 2 – 3 Emelec [M]

It was a tight affair on Thursday night. Pedro Ortiz was unsettled early on and gave up the lead to the hosts. But los bombillos capitalized on their set pieces. All three goals came off of follow ups to first touches. Anibal Leguizamon, Facundo Barcelo, and Lucas Sosa all capitalized when Olmedo were caught napping.

FK Vozdovac 0 – 0 Macva Sabac

Again…I got nothing.

Sacramento State Hornets 0 – 1 University of Montana Grizzlies

Make it six in the row for the Griz and another crucial clean sheet from Claire Howard. This time it took an overtime header to pull the squad over the line, but, as usual, the Griz got the job done.

Ross County 1 – 3 Inverness CT [Cup]

Buried in the bottom half of the Scottish table, Ross County’s last chance for silverware ended with their defeat to arch rivals Inverness. While Billy McKay fired them in front early on, the collapsing defense sent the Staggies out of the Cup in the third round. The one plus, it will allow them to focus fully on saving their top flight status.

Grenoble 2 – 2 Chateroux [M]

Up two goals and one man within 30 minutes, you would probably expect Grenoble to cruise over bottom of the table Chateroux. You would be disappointed . Our Alpine side struggled, ceding two goals through sloppy man marking (and a tentative/tender Esteban Salles) and watching Adrien Monfry leave the field to end up all square with a side they surely should have dispatched.

Borussia Munchengladbach 2 – 1 Freiburg [M]

Rolland Sallai gave the griffins a great start, but Gladbach got them back quickly (courtesy of Marcus Thurman whose dad Lillian is one of my favorites). Freiburg continued to press for a goal and got one from Keven Schlotterback at the death…only for video review to rule him offsides, and seal the defeat.

CS Emelec v. CD Macara [F]

Postponed…again…sigh…

Berekum Chelsea 2 – 1 Legon Cities FC

Samimento (Photo from GoGriz.com)

Hans Kwofie continued to show up for LCFC, but the second half of the season started much like the last, with the Royals struggling to balance attack and defense

Sacramento State Hornets 0 -3 University of Montana Grizzlies

Sami Seims was awesomely opportunisitic, capitalizing on two opportunities in the box to give her three goals for the weekend and making Sacramaento “Samimento”. Another Claire Howard shutout (it might get dull if it weren’t always awesome), and the Griz locked down their division title and a spot in the Big Sky Semifinals in two weeks

Emelec 2 – 0 CSD Macara [M-Cup]

A convincing 2-0 win over fellow Ecuadorians sees Los Bombillos into the next round of the Copa Sudamerica. When your attack is as linked as Facundo Barcelo and Ramario Caicedo it seems quite easy.

Alebrijes 4 – 1 Jaibos

A pair of insurance goals for Oaxaca made the score line look more flattering than it ought to. Still Alebrijes should wear the win with pride. Especially when they were fluid and effective in Johan Alonso setting up Fernando Vasquez and Carlos Fonseco scored on a sterling run.

FK Spartak Subotica 3 – 0 FK Vozdovac

The collapse of Vozdovac’s defense is only slightly more surprising than Serbia’s superb COVID Vaccine rollout.

Arminia Bielefeld 1 – 0 Freiburg [M]

In an otherwise solid first campaign in Breigsau, Baptiste Santamira would probably rather forget this one. His second half own goal cost the Griffins dearly, especially against a lower tier opponent, as Freiburg’s lost four of five.

University of Montana Grizzlies 2 – 3 Eastern Washington Eagles

The first loss of the Griz season came against their Spokane rivals. But it also came, stunningly, at home. Avery Adam’s and Taylor Hansen came through late to force an overtime. But they couldn’t grab the golden goal and a hungry Eastern Washington got the win to keep their hopes for the Conference tournament alive.

Kilmarnock 2 – 2 Ross County

The Staggies started the relegation rumble with a sprint to the goal. Within 5 minutes each side had a goal (worth it for Michael Gardyne’s textbook move). But when Kilmarnock took the edge through some sloppy positioning ten minutes later and held it through much of the match, it looked like County was destined for defeat and relegation. As the game got extra chippy, you could tell each team knew how important it was. Some ratty gamesmanship started silly shoving matches. County came through when Ian Vigurs cross met with Alex Iacovitti’s head and the draw was preserved. From there it got more brutal with Vigurs getting a busted nose (that only merited a yellow card) and Iacovitti getting a make up call with no whistle on a fairly blatant penalty. It wasn’t the knock out punch we might have hoped for, but it keeps the highlanders in good position to stay afloat.

Vozdovac 1-1 Proleter

Good news: Vozdovac scored early to put them in control and provide some positive momentum.

Bad News: Aleksandar Bogdanavic’s foolish red card gave Proleter its equalizer and turned a win into a draw. (I mean…goodness sakes, there’s no need to pretend you didn’t commit a foul when you actively drag a guy’s arm…cryin’ out loud Aleks!)

Grenoble 3 – 1 Caen

While Grenoble often pioneered the kind of collapse that Vozdovac is falling into, the Alpiners have been quite steady this year. After a dull first half, Yoric Ravet did quite well to finish a loose through pass from Jordy Gaspar and create several more opportunities.

Emelec 1-1 LDU de Quito [M]

A long-standing Quito v Guayaquil rivalry, remained hard fought, with both sides pressuring and pushing for every positive position. In the end Facundo Barcelo set up an equalizer for Alejandro Cabeza and Emelec kept pace at the top of the table.

Legon Cities 2 – 0 Great Olympics

The Royals locked in their strongest showing yet as they pestered and penned in the Olympics offense. Nicholas Mensah’s header eked over the line and Jonah Attuquaye persisted in the face of high pressure defense to give Legon a solid win.

May be an image of 24 people, people standing and outdoors
Photo from GoGriz.com

University of Montana Grizzlies 3 – 1 Eastern Washington Eagles

The Griz got a great rebound win on Senior day and we tip our collective caps to the stellar squad that continues to run roughshod over rocky mountain lady’s soccer. At the same time it’s rather exciting to start expecting the next class to rise up given that Rita Lang and Sami Siems have another year to go, and everyone benefits when you work with stars this talented. Up next a trip to Ogden Utah and a match with old rivals Northern Colorado.

News & Notes

Súper liga Súper late

Another couple weeks another couple delays to Ecuador’s women’s league: the new goal? April 17th. Fingers crossed.

Dragons Dilemma

Since the calendar flipped Vozdovac has only taken 11 points from a possible 33. With their strong start they can afford a slip, but this is starting to look less like a slip and more like a crashing back to earth.

While Serbia expanded its top tier for this post-pandemic season, they’ll be squeezing down to 14 for next year. The Red Dragons spent most of the fall around the top 7, but they’ve slipped to 13th, (4) points from the drop. To make matters worse, only 2/3 of their last 7 come against teams below them on the table.

Abila looking like….it snowed…in April?!?

Loons Launch

In the last run up to America’s Major League Soccer, Minnesota United did two things. First, train in sunny Orlando. Two, bring north Boca Juniors striker Ramon Abila. Bébelo Reynoso’s old teammate brings with him 39 goals in 89 matches for one of Argentina’s most storied clubs. Whether he provides the Loons with a difference making attack option we will soon see. (But one things for sure, “Boca du Nord” is a fun new nickname.)

Players of the Weeks

With two players to recognize, we have plenty of options to choose from. We’ll consider both one player who was superb in an individual week and one player who has been holding things down for weeks now. Sami Seims deserves all the credit for dominating the Hornets in Sacramento and Romario Caciedo has been superb both on defense and linking up the attack for Emelec as they continue to hover around the top of the standings.

Romario in full flow

Standings Update

Despite their slip, the Griz hold strong at the top of the table, and Freiburg takes a big step back, sliding from third down to sixth in the mid table log-jam.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana8012.72.10.6
Emelec5212.11.91.0
Grenoble Foot7551.51.21.1
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Legon Cities FC5441.461.20.9
Freiburg8281.441.41.4
Alebrijes4641.31.61.6
Ross County5281.11.31.6
FK Vozdovac2350.90.71.6
Rosenborg BK000–––
Minnesota United000–––
Table Updated 4/14/2021
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, April 14th

3:00 Universidad Catholics v Emelec [M]

5:00 Leones Negros v Alebrijes

Thursday, April 15th

University of Montana Grizzlies v. University of Northern Colorado [Big Sky Semifinal]

Friday, April 16th

8:30 Seattle Sounders v Minnesota United

Saturday, April 17th

8:30 Freiburg v Schalke

10:00 Medema v Legon Cities

1:00 Dunkerke v Grenoble

1:00 TSC Back Topola v FK Vozdovac

[Big Sky Final, if applicable]

TBA Guayaquil City v Emelec [F]

Sunday, April 18th

7:00 Wolfsburg v Sc Freiburg [F]

3:00 Emelec v Técnico Universarito [M]

Monday, April 19th

Tuesday, April 20th

Week 12: A goal here, a goal there

Week 12: A goal here, a goal there

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Werder Bremen 2 – 1 SC Freiburg [F]

Again the Griffins came up short. Despite Stephanie Sanders staking Freiburg to a lead early on, they couldn’t hold on for another 85 minutes.

Atlante 1 – 1 Alebrijes

In the rare mid-week/mid-day match Oaxaca came away with a point. Ricardo Monreal was imperious in midfield picking out great passes only to be thwarted by Atlante’s strong keeper (and Alebrijes’ inefficient attacking). It took a strong run by, and silly foul on Julio Cesar Cruz to crucial penalty to equalize and walk away with the draw.

Berekum Chelsea v. Legon Cities

See update on Ghana below.

St. Johnstone 1 – 0 Ross County

Close can’t keep the Staggies clicking. They head into the split just one point out of danger. [Cue the nail biting]

Paris FC 2 – 0 Grenoble [M]

The trip to the capitol was weighted with importance, but even a full strength back line and going a man up for the final 20 minutes couldn’t keep Paris at bay.

Radnicki Nis 0 – 1 Vozdovac

It always throws me off when the RED Dragons wear blue, but maybe there’s something to it. For only the second time in ten matches, Vozdovac got a win. Miloje Prekovic was on the bench for the second straight game, but most of the defensive strength came from center back Aleksander Bogdanovic. Stefan Purtic’s booming long ball to Aleksandar Stanisavljevic caught Radnicki napping and sealed the victory.

Punjab FC 1 – 0 Real Kashmir

The last Northeast derby of the year came out in the Warriors column. Surabh Banwala refused to let his recent struggles define the campaign and made his presence felt everywhere. He pestered the attack and made a daring run up for a header. But it was Chencho Gyeltshen who notched his seventh of the campaign (albeit on his least inventive opportunity) and pushed Punjab to another valuable win.

Freiburg 2 – 0 Augsburg [M]

Despite far less consistency recently, Freiburg remains a solid, dependable side in German soccer. Even with spot starter Guus Til leading the charge, the attack was focused, and the defense was effective (thanks Florian Muller). In particular, team captain and extended contract signed Christian Gunter whose chance creation was second to none.

Emelec 0 – 1 Nueve de Octubre [M]

Emelec’s unbeaten run has ended, dropping them to second place in Ecuador. Surprisingly it came at the hands of new comers Nueve de Octubre celebrating their first season in the top flight for over 25 years.

Alebrijes 0 – 0 Cancun FC

And that happened.

News & Notes

Norway’s No-Way til May

The Powers that be in Norway’s top leagues have decided to postpone the start of their seasons. Both the Eliteseren (for Males) and Toppserien (for Females) will kick off on the first weekend in May. The Federation’s announcement touched on the risk of increasing case numbers throughout the country, hopefully, some more vaccinations and lots of time help everyone out.

Ghana’s Gone Fishin

To more effectively prepare the national team for upcoming challenges Ghana has delayed the start of the season’s second half until April. (Given that they actually have a better handle on Covid than Norway…that’s understandable). Meanwhile, Legon has started teasing the of the Asamoah Gyan era…again…and celebrating Fatua Duda’s wedding (which, is so much better than all other “celebrity weddings” that I’m going to use it as my go to comparison from now on).

Scotland’s Split

Ross County’s season continues to creep along to the end, but the end will be squeakier than the fresh lemon grass used in Pabrai’s Fresh and Naturelle Lemongrass Ice Cream (available in Kolkata)

The Stags have a point edge on long tenured Premiership side Kilmarnock, and evenly split their first three meetings (1-1-1). The two point edge on finishing last and being guaranteed relegation is better, though they and current cellar dwellars Hamilton Accies have split goals this year 3-3.

Hansen heads out of Houston (KSTP)

Loon’s Wings

Minnesota United has frequently found themselves short of an attacking winger (overloading one side, under filling another). Enter: Niko Hansen, the Danish-American attacker formerly of Houston who will join the Loon’s Finnish contingent in repping Scandanavia.

International Affairs

World Cup qualifying is in full swing this week, so there are only a few games ahead.

Player of the Week

This week saw plenty of good performances that didn’t quite reach a level of remarkable. So we’ll send this award out to someone who both had a good game and set a great example of how to lead their team. Christian Gunter stepped up when Freiburg needed him, just as he has done and will continue to do.

Gunter-fan art from Facebook

Standings Update

Punjab, Freiburg and Grenoble continue to shuffle around the top tier. Let’s also take a moment to respect that Freiburg has managed to and up with 1.53 points per game, 1.53 Goals For per game, and 1.53 Goals against per game….symmetry people…symmetry

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana30031.70
Emelec3112.01.81.0
Punjab FC7451.561.10.8
Freiburg7261.531.51.5
Grenoble Foot6451.471.11.1
Legon Cities FC4431.451.20.8
Ross County5171.21.21.5
Alebrijes3441.11.61.9
FK Vozdovac2350.90.71.6
Rosenborg BK000–––
Minnesota United000–––
Table Updated 3/24/2021

What’s Next

Wednesday, March 24th

Thursday, March 25th

Friday, March 26th

7:00 University of Montana Grizzlies v. Portland State Vikings

8:00 Celaya v. Alebrijes

Saturday, March 27th

6:30 Churchill Brothers v. Punjab FC

Sunday, March 28th

7:00 SC Freiburg v. Turbine Potsdam [F]

12:00 University of Montana Grizzlies v. Portland State Vikings

Monday, March 29th

Tuesday, March 30th

10:00 Dorados v. Alebrijes

Week 11: Slipping and Saving

Week 11: Slipping and Saving

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Punjab FC 3 – 3 Mohammedan SC

While Chencho Gyeltshen set up Punjab for a victory (including a good gracious slam to start the second half), ten terrible minutes in the second half allowed Mohammedan to take the lead. (Part of that was Kiran Limpu’s bad luck, part of it was Souvik Das and Hormipum Ruviah’s poor positioning.) Ashish Jah’s late equalizer preserved the draw. Luckily Churchill Brother’s dropped points to keep the Warriors alive in the title hunt.

Partizan Belgrade 4 – 0 FK Vozdovac

Over the past year Vozdovac has greatly improved, but they’re still not in the same league as Serbia’s top two. Their record against Partizan is now 4-1-14.

CSD Macara 1 – 1 Emelec

It took a while for Emelec to break through (thanks again Facundo Barcelo). Unfortunately it didn’t take long at all for Macará to equalize (through a diving header/hander that went uncalled) and end Los Bombillos winning streak.

Idaho Vandals 0 – 1 Montana Grizzlies

Alexa Coyle struck early and goalie Claire Howard notched her 28th clean sheet in a text book coach Citowicki win. Best of all the midfield was again dominant, bossing the park throughout.

Mainz 1 – 0 Freiburg [M]

The Griffins continued to struggle in the season’s later stages. They couldn’t seem to find an edge against lowly Mainz and only Florian Muller saved it from being worse than it was.

Ross County 1 – 2 Hibernian

An early Billy McKay goal set Staggies hearts a singing. However as the midfield was run ragged by Hibs, the good fortune faded and a chance to keep growing the gap against fellow relegation battlers slipped away.

Grenoble 1 – 1 Pau [M]

The first choice defensive line was almost back to full force with Jerome Mombris, Jordy Gaspar and Loic Nestor shutting down Pau for most of the match (Gaspar’s booming cross to net the opening goal was also good to see). Note, I said “most”. An injury time equalizer threaded through all those otherwise stellar defenders denied les bleus a vital 3 points.

MSV Duisburg 1 – 2 SC Freiburg [F]

After the beat down from Bayern Munich, Freiburg needed a strong showing like this to get back on track. Mia Buchele and Cora Zicai led the scoring as Freiburg continued Duisburgs winless streak.

Idaho Vandals 0-1 Montana Grizzlies

It took 9 minutes of overtime before the Griz found a way through on Rita Lang’s free kick. Though the referee initially thought the onrushing attackers had interfered with the goalie, video review showed Lang’s kick was in before hand.

TRAU 1 – 0 Punjab FC

With the attack struggling to break through, Punjab needed the defense to guard against foolish mistakes. Mohammed Irshad’s ill timed tackle was foolish. The ensuing red card and advantage goal sunk the fading title hopes of the Northwesterners.

FK Vozdovac 1 – 4 Red Star Belgrade

Red Star is the other team in Serbia’s duopoly. Against them, the Red Dragons are 2-1-15 and haven’t gotten a point since May 2017. Having the lead for 26 whole minutes in the first half was pretty sweet though.

News & Notes

Grenoble’s Gearing Up

As les Grenoblois near the business end of their season I thought it would be wise to talk about what comes next.

In two months League 2 will end, and the top two teams in the league will move up to face the top teams in France. The next three will battle each other for the chance to face a struggling League 1 side.

Grenoble sits 5 points back from automatic promotion and 7 points safe in the playoff crew. But a lot can still happen. The last 27 points of the campaign depend on les bleus showing against opponents, 5 of whom will have the same promotion goal in mind. 3 others will be battling to stay in League 2.

That means Grenoble needs to persevere through a tough final 9 games to stay in the hunt. If they do, we’ll watch some of the world’s best visit le stade des Alpes.

Adebayor (center in white)

Royals Rumbling

Meanwhile Legon Cities spent the week preparing for their season’s second half, and welcoming in a new striker: Victorien Adebayor. The Niger international had starred in Ghana before a transfer to Europe. Family needs led him to request a move closer to home and the Royals obliged. With Hans Kwofie and Asamoah Gyan, he adds to the attacking stockpile Legon is hording.

Player of the Week

While it was a less than stellar week for most teams, it should be noted that Claire Howard racked up another pair of clean sheets. Withstanding the Vandals barrage in game 2 kept the Griz alive and helped her tie a Big Sky record for most clean sheets in a career.

Standings Update

A perfect week pushed the Griz to the top of the table, while Punjab’s struggles dropped them from 3rd to 5th. The worst news for Vozdovac…Rosenborg and Minnesota United are going to start up soon…and then there will be no one left to cushion them from the bottom.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana30031.70
Emelec3102.52.31.0
Grenoble Foot 386441.571.11.1
Freiburg6251.541.51.6
Punjab FC6451.471.10.9
Legon Cities FC4431.451.20.8
Ross County5161.31.31.6
Alebrijes3241.21.92.2
FK Vozdovac1350.70.71.8
Rosenborg BK000–––
Minnesota United000–––
Table Updated 3/16/2021

What’s Next

Wednesday, March 17th

8:00 Werder Bremen v. SC Freiburg [F]

Thursday, March 18th

7:00 Atlante v. Alebrijes

Friday, March 19th

Saturday, March 20th

7:00 Rosenborg BK v. Staebek [F]

10:00 Berekum Chelsea v. Legon Cities

10:00 St. Johnstone v. Ross County

2:00 Paris FC v. Grenoble [M]

2:00 Radnicki Nis v. Vozdovac

Sunday, March 21st

8:30 Punjab FC v. Real Kashmir

12:00 Freiburg v. Augsburg

6:00 Emelec v. Nueve de Octubre

Monday, March 22nd

Tuesday, March 23rd

6:00 Alebrijes v. Cancun FC

Week 10: Cross Your Heart

Week 10: Cross Your Heart

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

SC Frieburg 2 – 1 SC Sand [F]

Several weeks after winter weather delayed their return the ladies of Freiburg got to take the field and they celebrated with a thrilling win against SC Sand. After ceding a late equalizer, Sandra Starke struck back with a great winner.

Vozdovac 2 – 1 Backa Backa Palanka

The goal drought reached 435 minutes before the Red Dragons finally got one back. Recent arrival Lazar Asric’s pulled the squad back from a dangerous position against the bottom team in the SuperLiga. After ceding a first half goal on sloppy defending, Asric came alive in the second half. He blasted home a penalty won on a hand ball and followed up with the winning volley 4 minutes later. The new gun sparked hopes throughout the Dragon’s nest of Belgrade.

Cimarrones 2 – 0 Alebrijes

Already down two goals, Oaxaca went down a man when Fernando Plasencia was sent off. The youngster’s temper cost the team a solid midfielder against a solid, but limited Mineros.

Punjab FC 0 – 1 Golukam FC

The Warriors were held scoreless for the first time in 5 matches and lost their first match in 7. An ill timed tackle by Surabh Banwala gave Golukam the only chance they needed. Despite the formidable duo of Chencho and Diawara Punjab couldn’t respond in kind.

Freiburg 0 – 3 RB Leipzig [M]

Once upon a time, Freiburg and Leipzig were rivals in the second division of Germany. Freiburg built gradually, carefully, methodically and now they’re consistently in the thick of the league. Leipzig spent a lot of money and now they’re consistently contending for titles…these are the moments I’m tempted to raise you as Marxists.

Ross County 3 – 2 Kilmarnock

Despite falling behind early to their fellow cellar dwellers (on a questionable non-handball-call), County came back. Billy McKay was every where you would want him to be, scoring a wicked volley, delivering a goal in traffic and drawing attention of the defense to free up defender Leo Hjelde for the third goal. It all combined to help the Staggies to a big win in their quest to stay in the top league.

Emelec 1 – 0 Delfin [M]

It’s a good time to be Emelec in Ecuador. A perfect 3 for 3 to start the campaign has them top of the table alongside rivals Barcelona. Plus Facundo Barcelo remains ridiculously in form and the clever movement from Esteban Rodriguez suggests that Facundo will have all the opportunities he needs.

SC Freiburg 1 – 5 Bayern Munich [F]

Former Freiburg starlet Klara Buhl kicked off the scoring for the league leaders who never looked back in Breigsau.

FK Metalac 2 – 1 Vozdovac

The Red Dragons firepower faded quickly in under a week and despite a well organized midfield that kept pressure on the hosts for most of the first half they couldn’t keep the pressure up long term. As the offensive pressure wilted, the defense crumbled too. An uncharacteristic foul from keeper Miloje Prekovic set up a penalty, and an unwise challenge from newcomer Rashid Oboubi gave Metalac a man advantage. Only a clever back heel volley from 17 year old Dragan Stoisavljevic kept them in the match.

Eleven Wonders 1 – 0 Legon Cities

After 7 unbeaten the Royals dropped all the points against Eleven Wonders. Hans Kwofie, Baba Mahama, and Jonah Attaquye all came close, but one goal was enough to end the points streak. Trust that the Royals will rule again soon.

Grizzlies 3 – 0 Montana State-Billings Yellow Jackets

For the first time in almost 500 days the Griz took the field. For only the fifth time in coach Chris Citowicki’s three season tenure they scored more than one goal. Alexa Coyle had the honor of breaking the seal on the new season, with a standard long distance blast. The Griz kept up the pressure on lower division side (but the closest thing we get to a soccer brawl of the wild) and pulled away in the second half with lots of pressure from midfield transfer Mimi Eiden, and a great cross from Taylor Hanson.

Alebrijes 4 – 3 Mineros

It was a wild one in Oaxaca. Things started to get tetchy when Fernando Morales committed an ill-timed challenge against a Mineros attacker in the box. A fortunate bounce from Ricardo Monreal equalized things at 1 all. Between banging goals at the start of the second half, legs got higher and pushes and tugs started to tear at jerseys. When Oscar Torres delivered a elbow in the box it looked inevitable that things would escalate. Sure enough, Mineros’ Luis Hernandez rassled a man to the ground in the box, and Alebrijes sealed a penalty of their own. Soon their after some confrontation on the far line netted Hector Mascorro a red card, and with the man advantage Jair Cortes delivered a great through ball to Fernando Vasquez at the back post to net the winner for Alebrijes.

News & Notes

Pabrai’s Mango/League Split

Pabrai’s Fresh and Naturelle
The official unofficial ice cream of this blog

The I-League has reached its championship/relegation split. Our coverage of it will be brought to you by Pabrai’s Fresh and Naturelle Ice Cream. The only Kolkata Ice Creamery operated by a former student of mine. (Hence the unpaid advertisement)

Punjab entered this section of the tournament in second place behind undefeated Churchill Brothers, but the loss to Golukam quickly sent them back to 4th. We’ll track their position with bated breath…and a big bowl of Pabrai’s Fresh and Naturelle!

Rookies and Vets Join the Loons

Our local team has brought in a few more players to continue their preparations for the upcoming season. First among them is veteran Striker Juan Agudelo. Over 10 years Agudelo has scored about once every four outings, made several appearances for the national team, and been a top choice for multiple American clubs. Also re-signed is team captain and Cuban enforcer Osvaldo Alonso who scored the first goal in the history of the Loons’ new stadium and has led it to its first two playoff runs.

Meanwhile the newest young talent to come aboard is a local product: Patrick Weah of Maple Grove. Weah is a former Mr. Minnesota Soccer, a former leader of Minnesota’s academy, and the nephew of former FIFA World Player of the year/current president of Liberia, George Weah. So….no pressure

Vozdovac’s Wholesale Shifts

With all the stuff going on I’m very late to updating this news for the Red Dragons, but holy cow did they change things up.

As of the start of March, only 13 players out of the squad of 31 had been with the club for a year. Every spot in the goalkeeping corps has turned over, and after bringing in 3 new left backs, the defense has similarly evolved. The new life of the dragons has yet to yield much in the way of advancement up the table, but we’ll have to wait and see (at least they’re not in the relegation scrap this year).

Player of the Week

With so many great crosses here it is tempting to choose one of the assist masters, but Billy McKay saved the day in Dingwall and played a part in every big play that brought the Staggies back into and then ahead in their match. He scores when he wants! He’s Billy McKay!

Standings Update

Emelec’s got company in the perfect start club and the Griz join them with a perfect 3 points per game (I kept Emelec first since they have played more games). Meanwhile an idle Grenoble moves past a struggling Freiburg and Ross County only has goals separating them from surpassing the Royals.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Emelec30032.71.0
University of Montana100330
Punjab FC5331.641.10.6
Grenoble foot 386341.621.21.0
Freiburg6251.541.51.6
Legon Cities FC4431.451.20.8
Ross County5151.451.41.6
Alebrijes3241.21.92.2
FK Vozdovac1320.90.71.1
Rosenborg BK000–––
Minnesota United000–––
Table Updated 3/9/2021

What’s Next

Wednesday, March 10th

Punjab FC v. Mohammedan SC

Thursday, March 11th

10:00 Partizan Belgrade v. FK Vozdovac

6:00 CSD Macara v. Emelec

8:00 Idaho Vandals v. Montana Grizzlies

Friday, March 12th

Saturday, March 13th

8:30 Mainz v. Freiburg [M]

9:00 Ross County v. Hibernian

1:00 Grenoble v. Pau [M]

Sunday, March 14th

8:00 MSV Duisburg v. SC Freiburg [F]

3:00 Idaho Vandals v. Montana Grizzlies

Monday, March 15th

5:30 TRAU v. Punjab FC

10:00 FK Vozdovac v. Red Star Belgrade

Tuesday, March 16th

Week 9: Super Showing

Week 9: Super Showing

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Legon Cities 2 – 0 Elmina Sharks

While Asamoah Gyan remains a non-factor (just as Alex predicted last fall, the Royals new star striker, Hans Kwofie wasted no time in making his mark. A stellar brace provided all the offense the Royals needed, though to be fair, Jonah Attaquye’s dead ball skills set up at least one of those goals (highlights from the massive Accra Sports Stadium always leave me a little squinty).

Alebrijes 2 – 2 Correcaminos

Oaxaca might well feel hard done by here. They had the better looking attack over all, they spent long stretches of the game looking quite strong, but a cracker free kick from Correcaminos left them with just a point. That Ricardo Monreal’s ripping shot and Fernando Vasquez’s buckeroo header/goal celebration will end up as footnotes is small consolation.

St. Mirren 1 – 0 Ross County

If either of you gets a theatre degree this will be a great joke (from Exunt NYC)

As surely as the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. As surely as there will always be a Scotland. When Ross County bags a boffo win one week, they’ll deliver a clunker the next. (John Hughes’ clump of midfielders sure slowed the game down, but it also made getting a winner nigh on impossible. Seriously, it’s been a month since Hary Paton and Jermaine Hylton led the charge…I’m just saying…)

Zlatibor 0 – 0 Vozdovac

It’s now 351 minutes without a goal for the Red Dragons and the mid-table is looking less like a comfortable perch to build for a future and more like an interminable space of surreal torture. Like Waiting for Godot, but less funny.

Grenoble 1 – 1 Niort [M]

Honestly, you have to feel for Adrien Monfry. After giving every ounce of his speed to try to track back and prevent a shot by Niort striker Pape Ba, he was pushed back, fell to his back and allowed his front toe to ever so gently graze Ba’s shin. The result was utter agony for Ba, a penalty for the visitors and a goal lead. [I honestly had to rewatch it three times in slow mode to catch the “foul”]. Monfry’s disbelief as the penalty and then yellow card come his way is something else. But Monfry didn’t have to bear the brunt of frustration as Moussa Kaillou Djitte once again was the right man, in the right place, at the right time to equalize late.

Aucas 2 – 3 Emelec [M]

In a match that was about as pretty as the south end of a north bound horse, Los Bombillos stayed perfect. Keeper Pedro Ortiz was terribly unlucky in giving back Aucus’ second goal, but their opponents’ defense obliged the Guyaquil crew’s attack. Facundo Barcelo again created havoc gaining an equalizer for himself and a late own goal to win it. [Watch the “highlights” if you must]

Leverkusen 1 – 2 Freiburg [M]

In a massive win, Freiburg took three huge points on the road from a rival for European qualification. Wearing a kit so yellow that even Big Bird would call it “a bit much”, Lucas Holer had an outstanding game with a gorgeous assist to Ermedin Demirovic and one of the world’s easiest tap in goals to seal it. If the mustard tops are the price to pay for breaking through in Germany, I’ll pay it.

Neroca FC 0 – 1 Punjab FC

Again, Baba Diawara did the business in front of goal to get the points. While his towering headers would make great Elephant graves, we really need to take a beat to respect the Punjab defense. Bikash Yumnam’s superb recovery to stop an easy counter. Souvik Das’ hustle back to save the day (as a winger no less). It wasn’t always easy, and there were times Kiran Limbu and others looked exasperated, but Curtis Fleming’s side has built a solid corps that can even withstand the forced absence of (suspended) Chenchyo Gyeltshen.

Le Havre 0 – 2 Grenoble Foot 38 [M]

Manager Phillipe Hinschberger opted for an unusual line up for les Grenobloises. A five man midfield included some new opportunities for little used role players cum goal scorers Wily Semedo and Anthony Belmonte (the latter of whom ripped an absolute banger). It also included Jerome Mombris playing way up the field…on purpose. But when Esteban Salles can maintain the form he’s had lately, it’s almost academic.

News & Notes

Here Come the Ladies

At last it’s time to bring a little parity back to these pages as women’s games are gearing up to start again in earnest

First, the French league announced (a little bit ago) that they’ll be back in March. After months in shut down, we’ll see if Grenoble’s lady’s side can break through alongside the men. (Or maybe we will, the official website lists Grenoble’s first match as June…so….).

Meanwhile lousy weather and lousier viruses conspired to keep Freiburg’s ladies away from the pitch for the better part of two months. Now they’re back and they get to face old friend Karla Buhl and Bayern Munich on the weekend. (Such Drama, much wow)

And finally, and arguably most wonderfully, the Big Sky Conference kicks off this week. It will be over a year since the Griz last played, so naturally they’re kicking off with Montana rivals Montana State (Billings).

Baby Blues are Back

Minnesota United will bring back their baby-blue uniforms. It was very cool to see them back in the day and now…they cost a lot more and have a “pattern” that you can barely make out. Still though, nothing wrong with baby blues.

Player of the Week

Another week, another very hard choice to make. Lucas Holer did everything but pass out the popcorn in a critical Freiburg win, Bikash Yumnam, at just 17 years old, may already be past due for recognition. But we can’t ignore the fact that more assists, more goals, and more points have made Jonah Attuquaye instrumental in saving Legon Cities’ Bacon this year. In gratitude for both the great bacon and the good football, he’s our player of the week.

Standings Update

For the first time in forever everything stays where it was before. Emelec keeps the pole after starting out perfectly, Punjab, Freiburg, Grenoble and Legon continue to vie for further credit.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Emelec20033.51.5
Punjab FC5321.81.20.6
Freiburg5231.71.71.2
Grenoble Foot 386341.621.21.0
Legon Cities FC4421.601.30.8
Ross County4151.31.21.6
Alebrijes2231.11.92.1
FK Vozdovac0320.60.41.0
Rosenborg BK000–––
Minnesota United000–––
University of Montana000–––
Table Updated 3/2/2021

What’s Next

Wednesday, March 3rd

7:00 SC Frieburg v. SC Sand [F]

7:00 Vozdovac v. Backa Backa Palanka

9:00 Cimarrones v. Alebrijes

Thursday, March 4th

Friday, March 5th

Saturday, March 6th

8:30 Freiburg v. RB Leipzig [M]

9:00 Eleven Wonders v. Legon Cities

9:00 Ross County v. Kilmarnock

7:00 Emelec v. Delfin [M]

Sunday, March 7th

7:00 SC Freiburg v. Bayern Munich

8:00 FK Metalac v. Vozdovac

1:00 Grizzlies v. Montana State Billings Yellow Jackets

Monday, March 8th

Tuesday, March 9th

Le Havre v. Grenoble Foot 38 [M]

Week 8: Thrillers and Thuds

Week 8: Thrillers and Thuds

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Vojvodina 2 – 0 FK Vozdovac

The Red Dragons have settled into the middle of the Serbian league table. While some see that as a place where nothing dramatic happens, it’s really nice to have a consistent practice to improve, challenging yourself against the top teams and building confidence against the lower sides. This was one of those games against a top team…it didn’t go great. but that’s okay.

Real Kashmir 1 – 1 Punjab FC

The Northwestern derby was contentious even if it was played in the far east of the country. After some testy defending by Mohammed Irshad, Chencho Gyeltshen was knocked to the ground in the 63rd minute for and sent off for instigating a shoving match. After the fraca ended, Punjab went down the other end, drew a penalty and saw Joseba Beitia bury it. But former Punjab player Asier Dipanda struck an equalizer 5 minutes later. The draw broke a three match winning streak, and marked the first time Kiran Limbu gave back a lead in six matches.

Freiburg 0 – 1 Union Berlin [M]

Not much seemed to work for the Griffins. Despite having more of the ball and being more effective sharing it, the offense simply couldn’t set up dangerous chances. When Berlin capitalized on their opportunities, that turned out to be all they needed.

Nancy 1 – 2 Grenoble [M]

On one hand it’s a bit disappointing that trailing relegation battlers Nancy required Grenoble to send out second half reinforcements when Jessy Bennet could clearly use a break (Sorry Esteban Salles, it was unlucky). On the other hand it’s a testament to Bennet that he laced a gorgeous pass to draw a penalty, scored the equalizing penalty itself, and THEN delivered a great free kick Moussa Kailou Djitte’s outstretched foot for a 90th minute winner. Vive Jessy!!

Atletico Morelia 6 – 3 Alebrijes

Rascon (in Red) won’t believe this…any of this…

Whatever else is said, we should own that this was a highly entertaining match. Featuring more goals than the first four matches of the week combined. But while Julio Cesar Cruz continued his hot streak, the defense couldn’t keep the game in hand, or really anything in hand. Truthfully at a certain point everyone had to feel like keeper Angel Rascon, disbelieving, hands to the sky, why god why responses to the inexperienced (and boy did it show) trio of Gerson Huerta, Emmanuel Quezeda, and Fernando Plasencia.

Bechum United 1 – 1 Legon Cities

It might have gone better if not for an unfortunate hand ball to gift the Eagles a penalty. Still, with the draw Bashir Hackford’s side ran their record to unbeaten in six. But with only two wins in that time, they remain mired in the bottom half of the league.

Ross County 1 – 0 Celtic

They did it again! They did it again! Great Day in Dingwall, they did it again!!

It wasn’t nearly as complete or impressive a win as the cup victory in Glasgow. The offense was more lucky than good. Jordan White’s late winner from a beautiful bit of movement on a free kick was the decider. Ross Laidlaw continued to show up in all the ways that counted most with a last second finger tip save. It all got County got a critical win as they prepare for the league split. (Though sadly, they won’t be able to beat up on Celtic the same way they have been…darn.)

Emelec 4 – 1 Deportiva Cuenca

Ecuador’s season restarted with a great jolt from Los Bombillos offense. Target man Facundo Barcelo got his first goal of the campaign early in the second half on a beautiful back heel. But the team spread the wealth around with four players finding the net including Anibal Leguizamon with a smart header.

FK Vozdovac 0 – 1 Rad Beograd

In the Belgrade pecking order, Vozdovac doesn’t have many sides they can look down on, but Rad is one of them. The Red Dragons hadn’t lost to the Builders in almost six years, going a combined 10-2-0 against them. Of course, the reason I bring this up is because they lost, clearly and decisively. Worse, the offense is now 261 minutes without a goal (they last got lucky the day before Valentine’s day).

News & Notes

Bowling > Soccer

In this household you seem to have both decided that the best use of a ball is bowling. No matter what substance the ball is made from or what it’s previous purpose was, now, all balls are bowling balls. Hopefully I can get you back on the bandwagon eventually, otherwise this may need to be concerned with the PBA. (The MacKenzie Boys Ball Bag?)

Your Hero/Reading Icon

Player of the Week

It’s another hard choice, almost impossibly I’m going to pass by Jordan White’s masterful heroics against the Hoops and give credit to a midfield player for the first time this season: Jessy Benet only had half a match to make a difference and he made all the difference in the world. We said it before, we’ll say it again, “VIVE JESSY”

Thanks “World Today News” for taking a picture of your tv.

Standings Update

Emelec’s debut sees them top the table, but Punjab leads the table veterans, and while Vozdovac is mid-table in Serbia, within just 2021…it’s not going great on our table.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Emelec10034.01.0
Punjab FC4321.671.20.6
Freiburg4231.561.71.2
Grenoble Foot 385241.551.11.2
Legon Cities FC3421.41.20.9
Ross County4141.41.31.7
Alebrijes2131.21.92.1
FK Vozdovac0201.01.01.0
Rosenborg BK000–––
Minnesota United000–––
University of Montana000–––
Table Updated 2/24/2021

What’s Next

Wednesday, February 24th

Legon Cities v. Elmina Sharks

Alebrijes v. Correcaminos

Thursday, February 25th

Friday, February 26th

Saturday, February 27th

St. Mirren v. Ross County

Zlatibor v. Vozdovac

Grenoble v. Niort [M]

Aucas v. Emelec [M]

Sunday, February 28th

Leverkusen v. Freiburg

Monday, March 1st

Neroca FC v. Punjab FC

Tuesday, March 2nd

Le Havre v. Grenoble Foot 38 [M]