Tag: Minnesota United

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 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 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.

https://youtu.be/rBIc3uipY48

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.

https://youtu.be/pBUnfDON7Ok

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]

Week 7: Down the Vortex

Week 7: Down the Vortex

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Scores

Grenoble 0 – 1 AS Monaco [Cup]

Esteban Salles served up another strong showing, but it’s a little hard for a second string, second division goalie and his crew to keep up with a crew of International calibre players. Still it took a great strike from Stevan Jovetic and a lot of luck against the Grenoblois to stop the cup run.

Punjab FC 2 – 0 Chennai City

Baba Diawara opened the scoring, using his strong frame to create space for himself and easily knocking in a goal. It is becoming abundantly clear that Punjab is crafting one of the strongest attacks in the I-League with one of the leagues top goalies. They should stay in the title race all year.

https://youtu.be/bs7uXQO37hM

FK Vozdovac 1 – 1 Indjija

Marko Gajic was the man behind the Red Dragons’ goal slamming home captain Jovan Nisic’s excellent free kick. The captain played a critical part in two other moments of the match, making a critical in box clearance to deny a scoring chance (despite Indjija’s demand for a penalty) and failing to make another clearance that led to the equalizer.

Werder Bremen 0 – 0 Freiburg [M]

There was nothing much going on in Bremen, but it keeps Freiburg in fine position before their next match with the team right behind them in the table Union Berlin

Ross County v. Hibernian

Grenoble 0 – 0 Amiens [M]

While the offense couldn’t get going against Amiens, Adrien Monfry and Jerome Mombris contained the opponent’s attack

Freiburg v. SC Sand [F]

Legon Cities 1 – 1 King Faisal

At a certain point the Royals’ defensive strategy of “let’s just have our goalie be superb” leaves something to be desired. When the woodwork finally failed to accommodate them, Legon fell behind near bottom of the table King Faisal. Fortunately the offensive strategy of “hey, everybody blast long shots and hope for a goalazo did pay off when Cephas Doku crushed a stellar shot from outside the area.

News & Notes

Polar Vortex

Freezing cold conditions have kept us cooped up in the house for two weeks now. Worse still it’s delayed games in Norway and Scotland. Plus the ladies from Freiburg must be getting extra eager to get their season restarted.

Science Lesson, courtesy of the Daily Mail

Streich 10!

Streiching Out to the future

Freiburg chose this week to reup the contract of head man and local philosopher king: Christan Streich. The fixture on the local sideline will hit a decade in the job come December 2021 and his new contract should see him safely employed until May of the next year. The consistent top half-finishes for a team of limited resources will make that well earned.

Unsavory Socializing in Punjab

Reports broke this week that Punjab FC had to step up their directions to their fan base after some racially tinged abuse directed at a Warriors’ player after this last weekend. (It sure would seem like Baba Diawara would be the target, but why you’d jeer one of your team’s top scorers I have no earthly idea). Regardless, let’s go back to our favorite phrase: Screw you systemic racism.

Player of the Week

There wasn’t a lot to choose from this week. I’m tempted to tip the hat to Jonah Attaquye whose midfield play has been a real boon to the Royals attack, but this week he was relatively invisible. Jovan Nisic’s assist and goal made him the center of Vozdovac’s draw (but also to blame for it not being a win). While they both deserve some consideration for good play as a tiebreaker going forward, it seems best to recognize the other half of of Punjab’s attacking duo: Babacar Diawara who both played well and dealt with jerks. This isn’t much but hopefully it’s something nice.

Standings Update

In an unfair consequence for going goalless this week, Grenoble dropped from second to fifth while Punjab moves into a tie for first (only trailing on average goals for)

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
SC Freiburg4221.751.91.3
Punjab FC4221.751.30.6
Legon Cities FC3321.51.30.9
Alebrijes2121.41.61.4
Grenoble Foot 384241.41.01.2
Ross County3141.31.41.9
FK Vozdovac0201.01.01.0
Rosenborg BK000–––
Minnesota United000–––
Emelec000–––
Vozdovac FK000–––
University of Montana000–––
Table Updated 2/16/2020

What’s Next

Wednesday, February 17th

9:00 Vojvodina v FK Vozdovac

Thursday, February 18th

4:30 Real Kashmir v Punjab FC

Friday, February 19th

Saturday, February 20th

8:30 Freiburg v Union Berlin [M]

9:00 Bechum United v Legon Cities

12:00 Nancy v Grenoble [M]

Sunday, February 21st

1:30 Ross County v. Celtic

5:00 Atletico Morelia v Alebrijes

5:00 Emelec v Deportiva Cuenca

Monday, February 22nd

6:30 FK Vozdovac v. Rad Beograd

Tuesday, February 23rd

Week 6: God Bless the Goalies

Week 6: God Bless the Goalies

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Scores

Hamilton Academical 1 – 2 Ross County

An early own goal presaged gloom for the Staggies. But newcomer Jordan White’s goal and assist within the last 10 minutes saw the Stags to a big relegation zone 6 point win. (Worth noting that assist was a particularly blistering cross to the exact right spot in the box)

TRAU 0 – 2 Punjab FC

Apparently all it took to get Chencho Gyeltshen to score was a passive aggressive blog mention. His brace reflected how well he can capitalize on opportunities that appear. More impressively Punjab’s young defense has allowed one goal in the last four games and boosted the team to third on the table. (At times they seemed unsettled by TRAU but Kiran Limbu couldn’t be shaken, and sometimes that’s all it takes to keep a goalless streak in tact).

https://youtu.be/87e3vwHLaD4

Legon Cities 0 – 0 Karela United

The offense might have vanished on the Royals again, but a draw against the league’s top team is never a bad result.

Valenciennes 0 – 1 Grenoble Foot [M]

Don’t look now, but Brice Mableu’s spot between the sticks for Grenoble may be in jeopardy. Esteban Salles turned in another man of the match performance. That plus a late own goal (on an unstoppable half volley) kept Grenoble close to promotion.

Vendados 2 – 2 Alebrijes

Oaxaca kept plugging away after they fell behind on a corner kick inside of 9 minutes. While that normally presages a long night for the team, this time they kept calm and notched two much needed goals in the second half: starting with a long chip to capitalize on an adventurous keeper, and a final goal on a blistering header.

FK Radnik Surdulica 1 – 1 FK Vozdovac

Serbia swung back into action and showed exactly they’re tied with Surdulica in the table, by tying them on the field. An uncharacteristic lapse from keeper Miloje Prekovic put the dragons behind . But the teams remained as contentious and aggressive as you’d expect from Serbia (a few particular forearms to the face stood out). The late equalizer came from Luka Cveticanin on a staggering top shelf volley, marking his first strike for the Red Dragons.

Freiburg 2 – 1 Dortumund [M]

Even in a down year, a match against the bright young stars of Dortmund is intimidating (all the more so because they hadn’t been Dortmund in 10 years). But Freiburg was capable of keeping pace throughout, and Vincenzo Grifo again showcased his skills to further his case for joining the Italian national team in World and European Cups in the coming months. Add to that Woo-Yeong Jeong continuing to come into his own and you have a very promising start to the end of the season.

Ross County 0 – 2 Dundee United

After Billy McKay and a Jordan White won the match on Wednesday, they got a chance to start against Dundee. Unfortunately, neither found the same rhythm and the day ended with disappointment.

Hearts of Oak 1 – 1 Legon Cities

An early goal for Jonah Attaquye, capitalizing on a flustered defense, gave the Capital City upstarts a promising start. One they held on to for most of the match despite Hearts of Oak’s near relentless pressure. Again and again Winfried Honu stood up to the onslaught, with several outstretched saves. A late equalizer (also against a flustered defense) stymied a solid effort.

Werder Bremen v. Freiburg [F]

A blustery day in Bremen ended with a postponed match.

Indian Arrows 1 – 2 Punjab FC

Punjab’s second straight win comes from the feet of Baba Diawara. The Senagalese striker provided the attacking muster to give Chencho Gyeltshen a day off. Though the defense finally ceded their second goal in 5 games. Kiran Limbu continued to look quite formidable throughout.

https://youtu.be/6FeUVk5Oobs

Alebrijes de Oaxaca 3 – 1 Pumas Tabasco

Alebrijes continues a strong turn around during the spring campaign. Most of the switch has revolved around a greater effectiveness in the box and nobody was more effective in this match than Julio Cesar Cruz who was opportunistic, effective on set pieces and just great one-on-one.

News & Notes

Griz get a go in the big house

The University of Montana has had to make do with some lousy circumstances this year. But training as a team in the U’s biggest stadium isn’t one of them. Here’s hoping for a Big Sky battle in Washington-Grizzly some time soon.

Vozdovac is Bac

Soon to be Rocking Rooftops again

The red Dragons kick off felt much less nerve racking than last year as the team nosedived towards relegation. A mid table finish is quite likely this year so hopes for further improvement rest on newcomers seeking to establish themselves.

Over the winter the team let go two strong first half performers in defensive midfielder Marko Putincanin (off to Navbahor) and winger Milos Pantovic (back to Red Star’s youth team). The two accounted for 25% of the teams fall season goals, so replacing them is key.

Their boots will be filled by two returning loanees midfielder Stefan Purtic (22) and forward Lazar Popovic (19 and my new favorite Serbian name). The team also brought in A pair of left backs (Red Star sub Stefan Hajdin, and Macva talent Nikola Ducic) and a returning hero Aleksandar Stanisavljevic (who trotted out for the Kazakh league Europa contenders).

Minnesota Black, and Blue, and Open for Business

There will be soccer in the US this summer. There are fancy shmancy business reasons, I don’t really understand them. My big take away is: hopefully we can go back to games this summer.

Player of the Week

There’s a lot of great performances to choose from and both Esteban Salles and Winifried Honsu have stepped up massively, but the decisive factor has to be that Kiran Limbu helped lead Punjab to two wins and a massive boost up the table. For that, he gets the nod as this week’s player of the week.

Khelnow.com

Standings Update

Freiburg takes their lead right back with the streak snapping victory while Punjab’s great week and Grenoble’s consistency shrink the top four. Ross County stays off the bottom thanks to Vozdovac’s debut.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
SC Freiburg4121.92.11.4
Grenoble Foot 384131.61.31.4
Legon Cities FC3221.571.30.9
Punjab FC3221.571.10.7
Alebrijes2121.41.61.4
Ross County3141.31.41.9
FK Vozdovac0101.01.01.0
Rosenborg BK000–––
Minnesota United000–––
Emelec000–––
Vozdovac FK000–––
University of Montana000–––
Table Updated 2/10/2020

What’s Next

Wednesday, February 10th

7:45 Grenoble V. AS Monaco [Cup]

Thursday, February 11th

Friday, February 12th

Saturday, February 13th

4:35 Punjab FC v. Chennai City

6:30 FK Vozdovac v. Indjija

8:30 Werder Bremen v. Freiburg [M]

9:00 Legon Cities v. King Faisal

9:00 Ross County v. Hibernian

12:00 Grenoble v. Amiens [M]

Sunday, February 14th

7:00 Freiburg v. SC Sand [F]

Monday, February 15th

Tuesday, February 16th

Week 5: Ups and Downs

Week 5: Ups and Downs

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Ross County 1 – 2 Motherwell

Ollie Shaw opened the scoring to give Staggies hope for another win, and a big boost to their battle against a fellow relegation side. But a rough second half for Ross Laidlaw gave their rivals a leg up.

Alebrijes de Oaxaca 2 – 1 Tapito

Despite falling behind early, Alebrijes kept to their game plan and got a well earned reward. Julio Cesar Cruz made good on his new role as target man for all the crosses with a header and an earned/well struck penalty. Given how long it took them to get a win during the fall, we’re quite grateful.

Punjab FC 0 – 0 Sudeva

Back to back goalless draws and we’ve got to wonder what it’ll take to get Punjab back on the board.

AC Ajaccio 2 – 1 Grenoble Foot [M]

After a great last week, Grenoble fell back into inconsistency here. Mid table foes like AC Ajaccio can be major stumbling blocks in the quest for promotion. Even more so, goal keeper Brice Mableu’s departure due to injury throws more questions into a backline (though Cup hero Esteban Salles makes us feel a little better)

Inter Allies FC 0 – 1 Legon Cities FC

Don’t look now but the Royals have a winning streak! Matthew Cudjoe got his first goal of the season on a slick little nutmeg off of Francis Addo’s back heel [it’s hard to tell, and no coverage names the assist]. Throughout the second half Fatau Dauda showed up in style. The win lifts Legon to just 9 points behind league leaders Karela United who, coincidently, host Legon Wednesday.

Wolfsburg 3 – 0 Freiburg [M]

A flying Wolfsburg showed no signs of stopping against Freiburg. Florian Muller’s run of good form helped lift Freiburg to the middle of the league. His struggles (as today) sink the ship rather quickly.

Grenoble Foot 2 – 1 Guingamp

Yoric Ravet’s superb half volley tied the match, but Willy Semedo saved the day for the Alpiners. His late winner helped to boost Grenoble past Guingamp and set off a well earned celebration on the sideline.

Tlaxcala FC 2 – 1 Alebrijes de Oaxaca

Alebrijes had a great start to the game with Juan Portales giving them the lead before the half. But a chippy second half let Diego Gama score a penalty and then saw Fernando Plascencia sent off to put both teams at 10 men and let the hosts get a late winner.

News & Notes

Deadline Day

We’re rooting for you Ross (From Sunderland AFC)

Monday saw a final flurry of player moves as teams looked to adjust for the next six months.

The biggest bit of business saw Ross County say so long to Ross Stewart. The teams top scorer has long looked (let’s be frank) a little too good to stay in Dingwall long term. So a move south to join historic winners (as in the won a lot a long time ago) Sunderland seems well warranted.

Meanwhile the Staggies brought in former ace Inverness striker Jordan White who, alongside loanee keeper Joe Hilton should bolster the highlanders in the end of their campaign (a half a million for young academy grad Josh Reid is pretty helpful too)

A different kind of looming deadline

If it stays empty after the germs are gone….sigh…

While Minnesota United has done a fine job bringing in another tough to knock down defensive midfielder in US National Team member Will Trapp, the questions about how he and Ozzie Alonso will work together have been muted in the wake of a lot more furor over the possibility that they won’t see the field any time soon.

As I said a lot last year, it’s hard to have a league without fans who pay the money to pay players and owners and everybody else with the club. So team owners would like to keep costs low, but players would like to make sure they still get paid. Owners across America have made a big push to cut costs with the players. The players agreed to many requests, but asked for some benefits in return once life gets back to normal (and fans can come back). The owners would rather just cut costs and not do anything else even a few years later. If they can’t come to an agreement, owners will lock up the stadiums and players won’t be playing. (And Owen’s first match will be delayed…yet again…)

Player of the Week

The best games for Legon Cities are also the games when Fatau Dauda shows why he’s been a top choice of the Ghanaian national team for the last few years and was in the squad just last November.

Dauda does the job

Standings Update

We have our first lead change of the year as the Royals ride high into the top spot while Freiburg slips after their loss to Wolfsburg. Hopefully the returning Freiburg Frauen will boost their chances while Vozdovac kicks off this weekend too.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Legon Cities FC3021.81.61.0
SC Freiburg3121.72.21.5
Grenoble Foot 383131.41.31.6
Ross County2131.41.62.0
Punjab FC1221.00.80.8
Alebrijes de Oaxaca1021.01.01.3
Rosenborg BK000–––
Minnesota United000–––
Emelec000–––
Vozdovac FK000–––
University of Montana000–––
Table Updated 2/3/2020

What’s Next

Wednesday, February 3rd

12:00 Hamilton Academical v. Ross County

Thursday, February 4th

7:30 AM TRAU v. Punjab FC

9:00 AM Legon Cities v. Karela United

Friday, February 5th

1:00 Valenciennes v. Grenoble Foot [M]

7:00 Vendados v. Alebrijes

Saturday, February 6th

8:00 FK Radnik Surdulica v. FK Vozdovac

8:30: Freiburg v. Dortumund [M]

9:00 Hearts of Oak v. Legon Cities

9:00 Ross County v. Dundee United

Sunday, February 7th

7:00 Werder Bremen v. Freiburg [F]

Monday, February 8th

Tuesday, February 9th

4:30 AM Indian Arrows v. Punjab FC

5:00 PM Alebrijes de Oaxaca v. Pumas Tabasco

Week 4: Big Time for Breakouts

Week 4: Big Time for Breakouts

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Clermont Foot 1 – 2 Grenoble Foot [M-Cup]

An absolute thriller between the two Ligue 2 sides ended with penalties and the alpiners coming out victorious. Particular credit goes to goalie Esteban Salles who stopped three penalties in the nerve racking final minutes to pull out the match.

Freiburg 2 – 2 Frankfurt

In their first match at home of the week, Freiburg looked by far the better side, with Ermedin Demirovic continuing to grow in his performance with a perfectly weighted assist to Rolland Sallai on a pitch-perfect run. Nico Schlotterback’s late own goal robbed the Griffins of full credit.

Legon Cities FC 5 – 2 Ashanti Gold

Well, that was a heck of a thing. The Royals busted out of their funk in a big old way with a bonanza of goals. The much needed win saw them finally lift off from the foot of the table. Nasiru Moro’s opening screamer was a huge boon, with Jonah Atttuquaye leading the charge and David Cudjoe getting a brace within seven minutes. Still no sign of Asamoah Gyan…I’m feeling a little foolish that the three year old’s analysis was brilliantly prescient, and I was too credulous.

Freiburg 2 – 1 VfB Stuttgart [M]

It started out shakily for Frieburg, but much like this season, as Florian Muller grew into the game, Freiburg’s fortunes improved. There’s plenty to say, as ever, about Vincenzo Grifo and Ermedin Dimrovic’s growing partnership (and even more to say about Dimirovic’s stellar back heel assist on the second goal), but it was perhaps most heartening to see Nico Schlotterback come right back from his horror show outing on Wednesday with a sterling performance in defense.

Rangers 5 – 0 Ross County

This is more what we expected after last week’s shocker.

Grenoble 2 – 0 Chambly [M]

Yoric Ravet made it two wins on the week for Grenoble off a great free kick. Equally impressive was Jerome Mombris’ goal-line save to block Chambly’s best shot. A double win on the week sees Grenoble closer to the Cup and closer to promotion.

Punjab FC 0 – 0 Mohammedan SC

And that happened…[seriously, I don’t have anything to say about 0-0 draws]. For a better summary and much more humor, take a look at Yuvraj Gurang’s summary in which the word “shithousery” is used with aplomb. (Note to the children I’m writing this for: shithousery is a valuable word, but please, use it sparingly in polite conversation)

News & Notes

Highland Derby Delayed

There was plenty of excitement at the chance for a Ross County v. Inverness Caledonian Thistle game in round three of the Scottish Cup. But ICT still has to play their second round match against Buckie Thistle, and no games are happening in Scotland for teams below the top two tiers. So it’ll be a little time to wait and see what’s next before the battle for the heights of the highlands.

Grenoble Gears up for a big one

One final note on the Grenoble Cup victory last week. The triumph has to be tempered by the knowledge that their next opponent will be Ligue 1 Titans and tumultuous team of the south: AS Monaco. A surprise win there might be enough to see les Grenobloises on to later rounds and a sense of belonging in the top tier of French football. A defeat is much more likely.

Loons Out of the Nest

Unlike most other places in the world, where coaches and teams recruit like crazy to bring in the best young talent, or scout heavily to pick out gems from other parts of the country, the United States prefers to take our amateurs and give them a grand coming out party in a Draft. This year, despite COVID cancellations of the soccer season in college, Minnesota United and the other American sides picked up a few more talented teens. This year’s crop includes midfielder Justin McMaster of Jamaica/Wake Forest, and defenders Nabili Kibunguchy of UC Davis, and Sean O’Hearn of Georgetown University.

Player of the Week

When you are a team leader you step up when things are tough. When you step up with a goal and a crucial defensive save WHILE being the leader, you get Player of the Week honors from a random guy in Minnesota talking to his kids. That’s right Jerome Mombris, it’s all about you!

Standings Update

A big win leads to a big big boost for Legon Cities as the Royals vault up to 2nd place. Meanwhile Punjab’s goalless draw leads them to stall out and slip down the stats.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
SC Freiburg3112.02.61.2
Legon Cities FC2021.51.81.3
Ross County2121.41.62.0
Grenoble Foot 382121.41.21.6
Punjab FC1121.01.01.0
Alebrijes de Oaxaca0010.00.01.0
Rosenborg BK000–––
Minnesota United000–––
Emelec000–––
Vozdovac FK000–––
University of Montana000–––
Table Updated 1/27/2020

What’s Next

Wednesday, January 27th

12:00 Ross County v. Motherwell

9:05 Alebrijes de Oaxaca v. Tapito

Thursday, January 28th

Friday, January 29th

2:30 AM Punjab FC v. Sudeva

Saturday, January 30th

12:00 AC Ajaccio v. Grenoble Foot [M]

Sunday, January 31st

9:00 Inter Allies FC v. Legon Cities FC

11:00 Wolfsburg v. Freiburg

Monday, February 1st

Tuesday, February 2nd

1:00 Grenoble Foot v. Guingamp

5:00 Tlaxcala FC v. Alebrijes de Oaxaca

Year 1

Year 1

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

I started this blog a year ago thinking it would be a fun thing to do during the season with a little light reflection during the summer. Instead the entire world turned upside down and I found myself trying to make meaning from press releases in March and bubble tournaments in August.

Here’s how things shook out in 2020 among our favorite 11 sides on the planet.

Final Standings

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Rosenborg BK2713101.881.740.96
Minnesota United13661.802.081.12
Emelec179121.581.711.03
Grenoble Foot 3810671.571.391.35
FK Vozdovac112121.401.601.64
SC Freiburg1811181.381.361.53
Punjab FC2521.221.441.33
Ross County FC115181.120.971.62
Alebrijes de Oaxaca54120.901.001.52
Legon Cities FC3880.890.631.16
University of Montana000–––
Table Updated 12/31/2020

As was becoming apparent by the middle of the summer, the longer Rosenborg’s women went undefeated, the more likely they were to win our trophy. In the end, Rosenborg’s Men struggled to finish off the season gave Minnesota United a closer chance than you might have expected in November.

Emelec wins my money this year for the best showing of a team whose jersey I didn’t own going in (but I’m seriously mulling doing something for Grenoble to shore up my fandom bonafide as they fight for *knock on wood* Ligue 1 promotion)

SC Frieburg’s struggles saw them slip to the middle of the table just above Punjab FC which has been idle for months now, and the Lady Griz must be licking their chops to finish above Asamoah Gyan and company in 2021.

Players of the Year

Rather than choose 1 best of best, given that my entire theme this year was coming together and relying on others, it only made sense to award a full team.

Up top, it should be no surprise that we chose the two most imperious scorers in our year especially given Marit Clausen’s sizzling summer and Farcundo Barcelo’s amazing autumn.

The midfield was trickier. There was no shortage of good candidates, but in the end we couldn’t ignore the excellent run of young Julie Blakstad, the superb creativity of Emanuel Reynoso, or the consistency of Vincenzo Grifo. Kristoffer Zachariassen claimed the last spot due to his goal scoring prowess and excellent control for a Europa League bound side.

We probably could have done more to recognize defenders during the season, but as center back was our own position of choice on the rough and tumble pitches of Great Falls, Montana we were proud to recognize the Grenoble tandem of Jerome Mombris and Jordy Gaspar. On top of that Dominique Heintz seemed to always be the answer to the question “how did Freiburg stop fill in the blank Bundesliga striker king from scoring?” And Alex Iacovitti provided the most iconic image of the most iconic win of the year with his delirious wheeling joy after sealing the win over Celtic.

There was no shortage of great candidates in goal either. We went with Vozdovac’s Miloje Prekovic whose arrival coincided with an excellent unbeaten run for the Red Dragons.

Our bench has two players we really struggled over putting in the top XI: Grenoble’s Jessy Benet and Minnesota’s Michael Boxall, but we know they’ll be ready to step up for a sixty or a six minute shift. We also got a chance to recognize all the other teams in our list: strikers Asier Dipanda, Luisa Espinoza, and Franco Arizala represent Punjab, Las Electricas de Emelec and Alebrijes de Oaxaca respectively. Klara Buhl will be the one we ask to fill in all over the field (the least she can do after leaving Freiburg for Munich). And Fatua Duda holds down the Legon Cities spot in the squad (the Royals may be bottom of our table, but Duda is the unquestioned leader and has kept scores low while the offense sputters).

We were sorry not to find a representative for the Grenoble women’s side (we’d love if the social media squads from Rosenborg and Emelec could show them how its done), and we hope to include more than a few Grizzlies when they finally get back on the pitch this spring.

What’s Next

I really like soccer. Like, a lot a lot.

I really like writing. Like, a lot a lot

Doing this project for a year reminded me how much I like both, and also how impossible it is to do both, and parent, and teach, and write what is burning a fire in my brain.

So here’s the plan Stans: I’m keeping this site alive. The annual fee is a small price to pay for keeping track of all the lectures you’re going to get in your life. I won’t post in it as often. (One weekly update, One monthly video with all three of us (barring tantrums), and one monthly commentary).

I’m going to work on writing other things I’m fired up about. But rest assured, I’ll always love sharing lessons with you boys and I’ll love sharing them over soccer matches too.

(Oh, and if this is being read by someone other than my sons, feel free to write a note below so they know other people are judging their dad too).