Week 43: Close Run

October 27, 2020October 29, 2020 by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Vozdovac 3 – 2 Gráfica [Cup]

The Red Dragons fell behind early, but made a stirring second half comeback to tie the match. Then it was Milos Krunic playing hero with crucial penalty saves to push them on to the last 16 of the Serbian Cup.

Alebrijes 1 – 2 Celaya

Oaxaca held their own for much of the match. Keeping the score level through 45 minutes. But a second yellow to Victor Reyes opened things up for league leading Celaya, and Diego Chorena’s late red will only complicate things following another loss

Union Berlin 1 – 1 SC Freiburg [M]

In a very even contest, Vincent Grifo netted an opening goal from a tough angle that was promptly negated on the next sequence. It was the type of draw where it seemed like the best outcome. Both sides deserved something, and both sides got something.

Motherwell 4 – 0 Ross County

Young Ross Doohan did not shine on the day. A week after keeping Hibs off the board, the Celtic loanee mustered only one save against an imperious Motherwell.

Grenoble v. Nancy [M]

Postponed due to COVID

Emelec 0 – 0 CSD Macara [M]

That is a thing that happened.

Cincinnati 0 – 1 Minnesota United

The loons continued to struggle to regain their old form. Again there were moments of quality, tempered with moments of agonizing awkwardness. It took until 2 minutes into stoppage time for a break through, with Jan Gregus’ great corner kick meeting Michael Boxall’s head. While the post blocked Boxall, nothing stopped Aaron Schoenfeld’s winner.

Sarpsborg 08 1 – 2 Rosenborg BK [M]

Pa Konate scored his first goal since joining Rosenborg in September, and Dino Islamovic netted another penalty as Rosenborg kept up the race for Europe staying just one point behind Molde.

Proleter 1 – 1 FK Vozdovac

Though former Olympiakos starlet Leandro Pinto struck first for Proleter, Vozdovak came back with a second half equalizer to grab a vital point on the road. Dragan Stoisavljevic’s half-volley capped an excellent attacking streak from the Red Dragons. That’s the system needed to keep the race for top 3 tight in Serbia

Pumas Tabasco 0 – 2 Alebrijes de Oaxaca

Things got a little wild when Pumas’ goal keeper Jose Castillo executed a hefty challenge well outside his area on veteran striker Franco Arizala. After a Pumas complaint and a substitution, Oaxaca’s Rodolfo Vilchis absolutely cranked his free kick into the upper right corner to give Alebrijes a lead. Despite being a man up, Oaxaca still looked shaky at the back but Arizala continued to torment Pumas’ defenders setting up more chances for a security goal that finally came in stoppage time. It was certainly a fortunate and not terribly convincing win, but it was a win, and Alebrijes needs those.

News & Notes

Asamoah Gyan’s Homecoming?

One of the biggest players in Ghanaian soccer history may be on the verge of a return home.

Arguably the biggest striker in the Black Star’s golden generation, Gyan has bopped around the world with stops at big clubs in Italy, France, and England and big money moves to Qatar, China, and India.

Now at 34, he’s certainly nearing the end of a storied career and has pledged to cap his career back at home in the nascent Ghanaian Premier League. But…while the former Asante Kotoko fan has said he’d like to play in Kumasi, Legon Cities, our very own Royals, appears set to swoop in with big bucks and bring him on to their side.

Player of the Week

We’ve been recognizing a lot of defenders lately, so let’s take a moment to appreciate Franco Arizala of Oaxaca. Though he didn’t get his name on the score sheet he was integral to Oaxaca’s third win. From the penalty drawn on Tabasco’s keeper (which…on replay might have been a little…embellished) and providing the opening for the first goal, to the dipsy-dooo-drop-aroo moves that tormented the thinly stretched Pumas defense, to requiring a double team that opened the net for the second, Franco was critical.

What’s Next

Wednesday, October 28th

7:00 Minnesota United v. Colorado Rapids

Thursday, October 29th

Union v. Emelec [M–South American Cup]

Friday, October 30th

Saturday, October 31st

10:00 Dundee United v. Ross County

~~2:00 Niort v. Grenoble [M]~~ Cancelled due to COVID 19

2:00 FK Vozdovac v. TSC Backa Topola

Sunday, November 1st

6:00 Rosenborg BK v. Avaldsnes [W]

8:30 SC Freiburg v. Bayern Leverkusen [M]

11:00 Rosenborg BK v. Start [M]

6:30 Sporting KC v. Minnesota United

Monday, November 2nd

Tuesday, November 3rd

*The most important contest of this year Biden (D) v. Trump (R)*

Week 42: Hold on, For one More Day…

October 20, 2020October 25, 2020 by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Minnesota United v. Chicago Fire

Seriously, did they think it would take them four days to beat COVID? Who do they think they are? A bunch of obese 70 something reality stars turned politicians with access to obscenely expensive health care?

Emelec 1 – 0 Orense [M]

Emelec started their second half in a high grabbing a valuable win to restart their campaign with a good chance to compete. Dixon Arroyo’s 2nd half goal was a fortunate combination of positioning and sloppy defense.

Correcaminos 3 – 2 Alebrijes

A week after final breaking through with a goal, Oaxaca got two more to lead then tie a solid Correcaminos side. Sadly a third goal ceded made it moot, and left us all hopping for moral victories before the last month of the year.

Eintracht Frankfurt 0 – 1 SC Freiburg [W]

Lina Burger opened the match with a solid finish from a well worked team goal and from then on it was just a matter of holding on. The lady griffins did manage a few more strong forays into the Frankfurt area, but even though they came away goalless, they got what they needed.

SC Freiburg 1 -1 Werder Bremen [M]

Christian Streich’s side started out hot with a pair of goals inside 20 minutes from Phillip Leinhart (on a deflection) and Jonathan Schmid. Sadly, Schmid’s was negated by VAR and after a sloppy tackle from Lucas Holer gifted Bremen a penalty, it was all Christian Günter and company could do to salvage the draw.

Ross County 0 – 0 Hibernian

Connor Randall’s second half red card meant there was a very tense last ten minutes, with Staggies left grateful and aggrieved when a late tackle of Ross Stewart didn’t lead to a penalty.

FK Vozdovac 2 – 1 FK Spartak Subotica

The Red Dragons got their first win against a top six side in their ongoing push to be part of the third place race (behind Partizan and Red Star’s Duopoly). Nikolai Vujnovic netted a screaming winner as Keeper Miloje Prekovic was again crucial to the points.

Amiens 1 – 0 Grenoble [M]

On paper, this was a clear opportunity for Grenoble to grab some points away from home. But things were a lot less clear on the field, where Grenoble’s previously potent attack ground to a halt, and one slip was all it took for Amiens to capitalize and win it.

Emelec 0 – 2 Barcelona SC [F]

It was another hard derby for las electricas with Barcelona’s non-international Ecuadorian equivalents painted Guayaquil yellow again

Valerenga 1 – 1 Rosenborg BK [W]

The match of the weekend was as thrilling as advertised. Despite an early goof of a goal from a Valerenga cross, Rosenborg didn’t bend. Most surprising was the last moment equalizer from Sara Kanutte Fornes to keep RBK unbeaten. Ultimately the quest for an Invincible season, might be a distraction. The Trolljenta will be vying for the title in a final four playoff, but an unbeaten year would just feel so sweet.

Kristiansund 0 – 0 Rosenborg BK [M]

Not for the first time we wished the men’s team was playing at the level of the women’s side.

Merignac 0 – 1 Grenoble [F]

Jade Decilap made the difference on the road as the ladies of Grenoble got a valuable win. Side bar: hat tip to Merignac for rocking the chipmunk crest!

Minnesota United 2 – 2 Houston Dynamo

In an act of snatching a stalemate from the jaws of victory, the Loons gave up a pair of second half goals. For a team that’s past it’s injury woes (as seen by a brilliant return by Ethan Finlay) and has said goodbye to young prospects to bring in “proven winners” this collapse (both on field and in standings) is…frustrating.

Guayaquil City 1 – 0 Emelec [M]

The blue side of Guayaquil came out pale after dropping the second derby of the week. After a bright start to the second half of the campaign, some fans may feel hope dimming that los bombillos can shine any morethan they did before. (Did you like that plethora of lightbulb allusions?)

News & Notes

Grenoble Grippe

Minnesota United got some company in their infectious disease section of our standings this week as Grenoble Foot’s coach, plus 18 other players and staff members, tested positive for Corona-Virus.

This is part of a bigger local trend. French President, Emmanuel Macron (aka the Economist’s biggest crush), instituted a stricter curfew on nine cities, including Grenoble.

Player of the Week

So many sides needed sterling defensive showings to hold on to their points, it only makes sense to honor the defensive side of the game this week. We’ll acknowledge Miloje Prekovic, who, despite giving up a goal and looking a bit lucky has been so critical to Vozdovac’s surge up the standings that he’s well over due for some recognition.

Prekovic, who frankly looks like he’s interviewing to be your gym teacher

What’s Next

Wednesday, October 21st

Vozdovac v Graficar [Cup]

Thursday, October 22nd

7:00 Alebries v. Celaya

Friday, October 23rd

Saturday, October 24th

8:30 Union Berlin v. SC Freiburg [M]

9:00 Motherwell v. Ross County

12:00 Grenoble v. Nancy [M]

6:30 Cincinnati v. Minnesota United

Sunday, October 25th

12:00 Sarpsborg 08 v. Rosenborg BK [M]

2:00 Proleter v. FK Vozdovac

Monday, October 26th

Tuesday, October 27th

8:05 Pumas Tabasco v. Alebrijes de Oaxaca

Week 41: Skin of the teeth

October 13, 2020October 14, 2020 by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Rosenborg BK 1 – 0 Kolboltn [W-Cup]

In a quick break before the biggest game of the season against Valerenga, the troll girls, found a way to snatch a valuable win. It took until a late corner kick for them to find the goal, courtesy of a Kristine Minde header. The squad is already set for the quarterfinal against fellow Toppserien titans, LSK in early November.

Turbine Potsdam 3- 0 SC Freiburg [W]

Meanwhile, in Germany, Freiburg was overwhelmed by Potsdam. A total team effort left the lady Griffins labored and a little lost before the weekend’s big clash against German Giants Wolfsburg.

Montrose 3 – 4 Ross County [Cup–PKs]

Ross County’s offense sprang to life only to see their defense shrivel like a sheep’s stomach in the oven. Despite racing out to a three goal lead, they were pushed to the limit until a sterling PK performance got them the win.

Mineros 1 – 0 Alebrijes de Oaxaca

Did you know that Oaxaca is home to some of the oldest structures in all of Mexico, they even excavated a mountain for a new settlement atop of what is now Mount Alban. They even used it to do astronomy. So, Alex, they have a great environment you’d love. See, losing a soccer game [again] isn’t nearly as important as that cool stuff.

SC Freiburg 1 – 1 VfL Wolfsburg [W]

Might Wolfsburg hadn’t dropped a point since late August when they fell in the Women’s Champions League Final. They’d beaten Freiburg the last three times by a combined 18-2. But one late Hasret Kayicki header was all it took to save a thrilling point for the last griffins.

https://youtu.be/6qe0Z0yGyx0

Grenoble Foot 1 – 1 Olympique Marseille

After losing 3-1 to Nice last weekend a match against one of France’s biggest names might have been doomed. But a second half equalizer by Andrea Compper and a crucial penalty save by Julie Perrodin saved the point, with Perrodin’s performance serving some extra-special saves for Les Grenobloises.

Alebrijes 1 – 0 Venados

Great day in the morning Oaxaca won a game. Daniel Cisneros capitalized on a rebound to end a 394 minute goal-less streak. That was enough as Alebrijes leaned on Angel Alonso to stop Venados constant atacks, and they held on for the team’s first point in five matches. It’s a feast or famine schedule from here, with two games against struggling sides, one against a mid-table crew, and one match a piece against the top 3 teams.

Dallas v. Minnesota United

Postponed

Ross County 2 – 1 Arbroath [Cup]

Falling behind, to a lower league team, at home, isn’t ideal. But like so many other teams this week (including themselves), the Staggies were able to do what had to be done to get the win. In particular, Ross Stewart delivered both a header and a penalty winner to boost County to top of their Cup division.

News & Notes

COVID catches Loons

With all the safeties and protocols surrounding sports at the moment, you’d be forgiven for thinking the global pandemic is under control. Nope.

Minnesota United is the first of our eleven teams to have someone test positive. In fact they had two. And so their match in Dallas, their training, and all gatherings are on hold. Come on you Loons, Get Well Soon!!

Return of the Royals

With about a month until the Ghanaian premier league kicks off again, Legon Cities has returned to training for year two. The squad has a few additions, and will be playing this year on the grounds of University of Ghana (koohhhhh Ghana!)

Player of the Week

In a week where it was a matter of inches, let’s acknowledge someone who had to be inch perfect to keep their team in the clear. Sadly, with no statistics we have to base our evaluation totally on the eye test, and as our eyesight isn’t every good we’re going to play it safe and split the award between Julie Perrodin of Grenoble, and Angel Alonso of Oaxaca.

What’s Next

Wednesday, October 14th

7:00 Minnesota United v. Chicago Fire

Thursday, October 15th

7:00 Correcaminos v. Alebrijes

Friday, October 16th

Saturday, October 17th

8:30 SC Freiburg v. Werde Bremen [M]

9:00 Ross County v. Hibernian

12:00 Amiens v. Grenoble [M]

1:00 FK Vozdovac v. FK Spartak Subotica

Sunday, October 18th

7:00 Eintracht Frankfurt v. SC Freiburg [W]

9:00 Valerenga v. Rosenborg BK [W]

11:00 Kristiansund v. Rosenborg BK [M]

7:00 Minnesota United v. Houston Dynamo

Monday, October 19th

Tuesday, October 20th

41. The wheels on the bus

October 9, 2020October 13, 2020 by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Dear Boys,

Everyone has one of those songs that just speaks to you. For you Alex, it’s Wheels On The Bus.

While it’s nice for the wipers to go swish, swish, swish, and the windows to go up and down, and the people to go bumpity-bump, we all know the best part.

Those wheels. The ones that go round and round, round and round, round and round and round and round.

This isn’t about reciting lyrics, this is about how those lyrics mean something, and how soccer shows it.

See the wheels aren’t the only thing that go round and round. Often in life you’ll find What goes around comes around.

You can see it in a pair of popular bus related metaphors in soccer.

Over 15 years ago an egotistical coach bemoaned opponents “parking the bus”. In other words he loathed the overly defensive style, the strategy that packed defenders in front of goal to blockade attacks.

But since what goes around comes around, he has become one of the most ardent bus parkers in all soccer. It won him multiple domestic and continental trophies.

And as it goes around and around again, that strategy lost its effectiveness. That coach lost his magic touch and trust of his players. Perhaps it will go around again…but only time will tell.

Meanwhile, the coach of our local XI has an unpleasant tendency to throw players under the bus.

Rather than reflect on his failures, or others successes, it’s always someone else’s fault. Usually a player, if not writers, or the fans.

It’s aggravating to hear. It’s frustrating to hear a leader blame others, including young athletes trying their best, writers doing their job, or fans without any control in the outcome. But it doesn’t seem to stop.

Until, of course, what goes around, comes around

It will, after all. Like the wheels on the bus go round and round, the wheels of karma do too. When he departs, he’ll have to shoulder the blame. Even if he tries to shirk it, players, press, and fans, will return the favor in tossing him under the bus.

The wheels on the bus go round and round. The wheels of fate go round and round. Know that what is great now, may be pain soon, and great again before long. Maybe that’s not the point of that toddler song, but I’m fried and it makes sense to me.

If I try to do this with the name game song, send for help.

Week 40: That Happened

October 6, 2020October 7, 2020 by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Rosenborg BK 0 – 2 PSV Eindhoven [M-E]

It was always a long shot to beat the Dutch giants. While coming up one win short of European competition is hard, bowing out against a great side with a better performance than their last meeting is tolerable.

Jaibos 2 – 0 Alebrijes

Oaxaca’s slide continued. 272 minutes since their last goal, Alebrijes may be desperate to find the net as a suicidal tuna.

Dortmund 4 -0 Freiburg [M]

On a tipsy turvy year with two titans of the Teutonic table floating in the middle of the pac Freiburg could have laid claim to a top tier spot with a stunning road win. But they didn’t. Courtesy of Erling Braut Håaland, who first tormented Rosenborg…not cool Erling, not cool.

Macva Sabac 0 – 2 FK Vozdovac

In four minutes the Red Dragons laid waste to their host. Marko Putacanin provided both a devastating header and perfect through ball to Justas Lasickas. Meanwhile, keeper Miloje Prekovic pitched his third shutout in four tries since joining the team.

Grenoble 2 – 0 Valenciennes

Yoric Ravet turned in a man of the match performance with his first goal of the year on a PK. Meanwhile Brice Maubleu kept another clean sheet and Jordy Gaspar anchored the defense that made Ravet’s surge possible. The squad has yet to drop a point in Stade des Alpes.

Minnesota United 2 – 0 FC Cincinnati

A year ago the loons spanked Cincy, 7-1. There was no drubbing this year. But a pair of well worked chances created by Bébelo Reynoso, and more sterling saves from Dayne St Clair might help reclaim the team’s top of table form.

Freiburg 0 – 0 MSV Duisburg [W]

Well, that happened.

OGC Nice Côte d’Azur 0 – 0 Grenoble Foot [W]

So did that. Seriously, trying to find summaries of elite women’s matches is hard. 0-0 draws? No chance.

Rangers 2 – 0 Ross County

The Staggies played a fine and competitive match against the league leaders. An early penalty put them behind, but 70 scoreless minutes showed strength. They’ve slipped into the bottom half of the league again, but the signs are bright for the future.

Rosenborg BK 3 – 0 Lyn [W]

Julie Blakstad roared back with a vengeance scoring her first goal since August, and never looked troubled against Lyn. All eyes now turn to Oslo in two weeks when they play Vålerenga in a match that may well decide the league.

Rosenborg BK 4 – 1 Odd [M]

Åge’s boys bounced back emphatically against rivals for European berths Odd. A resounding 4-1 win led by Dino Islamovic’s double and Kristoffer Zacharissen sweet talking another goal.

https://youtu.be/R7IjKQV_WVM

Universidad Catholica 4 – 1 Emelec [M]

Across the ocean there was another resounding victory, but this one sent Los Bombillos reeling again. Having won only once since August, they certainly deserve their low ranking on the table. But hope is on the way (see News for more)

Nashville 0 – 0 Minnesota United

The grass grew a microscopic amount. Otherwise nothing really happened (after all, these teams are exhausted and playing on short rest in the middle of a pandemic)

News & Notes

Striker Swaps

The transfer window slowly winds down, but two of our favorite sides have swapped out striking talent in rather surprising ways.

Torgeir Børven, last years golden boot winner in Norway played well in Trondheim but manager Åge Hareide seemed to have other plans, working in everybody but Børven stop the attack. So he’s off to join Ankaragucu in Turkey.

Meanwhile, Minnesota, young, brash scorer Mason Toye said his goodbyes as well. The team’s top draft pick had enjoyed several runs of sterling form, but with three more veteran names on the roster, he was expendable. I don’t feel too bad either, he gets to learn from legendary goal scorer Thierry Henry.

At the same time, a few more striking talents made their way to teams we root for. Jermaine Hylton left Motherwell for Ross County, the exceedingly rare Staggies pick up that actually cost money. He brings with him some goal scoring boots to boost the defanged attack. And Rasmus Wiedesheim-Paul will swap Sweden’s second tier for Norway’s first as Borven’s replacement in the Rosenborg squad. He also has a scorer’s pedigree and, at a mere 21 years old, represents a long-term investment.

Emelec hits Reset

As poor as Emelec’s form has been the last few weeks, there is hope. The split season format, an alien concept to many, but a familiar favorite of anyone who watched Pioneer League baseball, is here.

The first half of the season crowned one champion, and now every one has the chance to start fresh and try again. Emelec may have finished a discouraging 12th of 16 for the first half, but if they win the second half, all is forgotten. Truthfully they’d have to do even worse to slide into relegation, so rather than play out the string and barely stay above water, this is a chance to start fresh and furious. We can hardly wait.

Player of the Week

Minnesota United has generally done a strong job of selecting talented players out of college. Hasani Dotson and Mason Toye earned call ups to the youth national team and Chase Gasper has been a reliable starter as well. But Dayne St. Clair has been an absolute savior after Tyler Miller’s injury and the injury struggles of stalwarts Ike Opara and Oswaldo Alonso. So to you St. Clair of Canada congrats on player of the week honors.

What’s Next

Wednesday, October 7th

10:00 Turbine Potsdam v. SC Freiburg [W]

Kolbotn v. Rosenborg BK [W-Cup]

1:45 Montrose v. Ross County [Cup]

Thursday, October 8th

7:00 Freiburg v. VfB Stuttgart [M]

7:00 Mineros v. Alebrijes de Oaxaca

Friday, October 9th

Saturday, October 10th

Sunday, October 11th

7:00 SC Freiburg v. VfL Wolfsburg [W]

4:00 Alebrijes v. Venados

7:30 Dallas v. Minnesota United

Monday, October 12th

Tuesday, October 13th

1:45 Ross County v. Arbroath [Cup]

Week 39: Rough going against the giants

September 28, 2020October 4, 2020 by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

SC Barcelona 4 -1 CS Emelec [W]

The local derby went no better for las electricas than they did for los bombillos. A consolation goal really wasn’t at the end, but this is only part one of several stages in the campaign.

Columbus Crew 2 – 1 Minnesota United

An uneven schedule means that the Loons got landed with the best team in the East while some rivals face far less intimidating opponents. The team brought their best effort but couldn’t keep up with Columbus, losing vital ground despite the resurgence of Robin Lod.

Rosenborg 1 – 0 Alanyaspor (M-E)

Having changed my classroom background for the occasion, I was quite glad to see RBK justify my love and maybe even earn a new fan from among my students. (Sure, none of them could pin Rosenborg, Alanyaspor or half the Europa league on a map but hey! They know the name now). Anders Konradsen made the difference and set up a next round battle with…uh-oh…PSV Eindhoven…who rocked Rosenborg (4-1) last year in the same contest.

Alebrijes 0 – 1 Atlético Morelia

It was tantalizingly close to a vital point (or more) for the Oaxacans, but Gustavo Ramirez Rojas 88th minute winner kept the silver linings far from view.

Emelec 2 – 0 Deportivo Cuenca (M)

It was a much needed win for Emelec, even if it came against the bottom team on the table. Joao Joshimar Rojas certainly had the most eventful week, with an early goal to save an almost botched opportunity. Then a late red card to give everybody something to talk about [Cuenca’s two red cards made it a little less dire].

Kolbotn 2 – 2 Rosenborg [W]

A rare slip from the Troll girls. Up 2-0 [with a Marit Clausen goal, naturally], two late goals conceded left them to split the spoils and miss a golden chance to grab the title race by the horns.

Ross County 0 – 3 Aberdeen

Manager Stuart Kettlewell called it the team’s worst game of the season. Unfortunately, they’re about to follow it up with a trip to play league leading Rangers, so buckle up Staggies.

Bayern Munich 1 – 0 Freiburg [W]

The biggest organization in German soccer is a little behind the curve in the Women’s game, but with former Freiburg starlet Klara Buhl on their side, they’re taking steps to address it. Buhl helped work up Bayern’s winning goal, but we’ll always have her early years to remember.

Guingamp 1 – 0 Grenoble [M]

Grenoble Foot’s winning run came to an end, but the side still seems vastly improved from last year. An early injury to Florian Michel might have enabled Guingamp’s winning goal, but however it happened, Grenoble will look to get back to winning soon.

FK Vozdovac 5 – 0 Radnicki Nis

It is a rare thing for me to get distracted during teacher training. (Not sarcastic, seriously, I like learning about things…you boys have a nerd for a dad.) But 5 goals for the Red Dragons definitely caught me off guard. In three weeks they’ve had results of 4-0; 0-6; 5-0. Somewhere Novak Djokovic is thinking of his tennis results. This week’s shout outs go to Nikola Vujnovic, Marko Putincanin, Ivan Milosavljevic, Milos Pantovic and Milos Stojcev.

Emelec 3 – 0 Club 7 de Febrero [W]

A quick start with goals from Adriana Valenzuela and Ginger Garcia gave Emelec all they needed to knock out the 7/2s. Substitute Emily Tomala’s final notch was icing on the cake.

Grenoble 3 – 3 Montaubaun [W]

Les grenobloises stormed back from down 2-0 in the first half to the lead but gave it back with only five minutes to go. Sarah Magnier of Grenoble blasted a header against the bar before a final whistle ended things in a draw.

Aalesund 1 – 2 Rosenborg BK [M]

A brace from the best looking man in Trondheim, Kristoffer Zachariassen put Rosenborg firmly amid the chase for second place in the Elite Serien. With Bodo/Glimt dropping only 4 points all year, there’s four teams within 3 points of each other for the silver medal. Rosenborg doesn’t need to celebrate silver…but after the dire start (1 point out of 9), it would be appreciated.

Freiburg 1 – 1 Wolfsburg

For 30 glorious minutes, Nils Petersen’s header put Frieburg into second place in all of Germany. But the offense couldn’t find any other routes through the Wolfsburg defense and solid goal for the opponents left them only in 5th (still ahead of giants Munich and Dortmund though).

Minnesota United 0 – 0 Real Salt Lake

Again I got to watch some of the match when you boys went to bed. And again I saw a Minnesota team struggle and ultimately fail to get anything to go there way. On paper every thing is there: sterling attackers, creative play, strong chance creation. On the pitch, they can’t seem to seal the deal. It’s a trite phrase but this was “not 1 point earned, but 2 points lost”.

News & Notes

Oaxaca Wipe Out

One year ago Alebrijes was en route to their first hardware. Promotion to the top flight was a real possibility.

Now they’re at the bottom of a newly restructured pyramid. None of our other teams have sunk this low, not Ross County or Grenoble on their goalless runs, not Vozdovac in the midst of their months without a win.

More thoughts on this later this week.

Player of the Week

Kristoffer Zachariassen would be the Norwegian Ronaldo, if Ronaldo were half as good looking.

I like to spread the wealth as much as possible, but lets face facts: Kristoffer Zachariassen played a vital part in a Europa league win and netted a brace over the weekend.

Best looking man in Norwegian soccer (check). TWO time Mackenzie Boy’s Boot Room Player of the Week (Double check).

What’s Next

Wednesday, September 30th

Thursday, October 1st

12:00 Rosenborg BK v PSV Eindhoven [M-E]

9:00 Jaibos v Alebrijes

Friday, October 2nd

2:00 Universidad Catholica v Emelec [M]

Saturday, October 3rd

8:30 Dortmund v Freiburg [M]

9:00 Macva Sabac v FK Vozdovac

12:00 Grenoble v Valenciennes

7:00 Minnesota United v Cincinnati

Sunday, October 4th

7:00 Freiburg v MSV Duisburg [W]

8:00 OGC Nice Côte d’Azur v Grenoble Foot [W]

9:00 Rangers v Ross County

9:00 Rosenborg BK v Lyn [W]

1:30 Rosenborg BK v Odd

Monday, October 5th

Tuesday, October 6th

7:30 Nashville v Minnesota United

Week 38: So Good, and so…not

September 21, 2020September 22, 2020 by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Ventspils 1 – 5 Rosenborg BK (M-E)

A scenic trip to Latvia was made a little brighter with a convincing win for Rosenborg on the next leg of their European escapade. Despite giving up an early goal, Age Hareide’s group dominated the last 80 minutes of the game with Dino Islamovic’s two goals, Carlo Holse, Anders Konradsen and Captain Cutie Himself: Kristoffer Zachariassen, also chipping in on a windy night in Ventspilis. Next up: they’ll welcome in last year’s 5th place Turkish side: Alanyspor and their hotshot goal scorer Dvaidson.

https://youtu.be/_MbiWhya2Zk

VfB Stuttgart 2 – 3 Freiburg [M]

The griffins launched their league campaign with a rampant attack led by Rolland Sallai. The winger’s goal and assist put Freiburg briefly into 2nd place behind European champs Bayern Munich. Granted, the back line faltered badly in the second half, when the game plan devolved to “just hope Dominique Heintz saves us again,” but a brief dream is better than none at all.

St. Johnstone 0 – 1 Ross County

The Staggies have equaled last seasons road wins and it isn’t even Halloween yet. Ian Vigurs excellent delivery left opposing goalie Elliott Parish dumbfounded. While Ross Laidlaw kept the door shut against St Johnston’s.

Grenoble 2 – 0 AC Ajaccio [M]

Jessy Bennet struck again, but the real change in the Alps may be revelatory play of fullbacks Jerome Mombis, and Jordy Gaspar. The two have been invaluable on both ends of the pitch and have been vital to the sides three game winning streak.

Emelec 1 – 1 LDU de Quito [M]

Roberto Ordóñez remains the only reliable part of Los bombillos at the moment. So it’s really helpful that he got a red card and will miss the next match. [sigh]

Houston 2 – 2 Minnesota United

The Loons ran out to an early lead and must have felt good about the chance to rack up some road points. Better still, gifted/young Dayne St Clair made a few sterling saves to keep the Dynamo scoreless. For the first half. Then young St Clair bobbled a couple shots, ceded two goals and the team squandered a great opportunity.

Rosenborg BK 2 – 1 FK Haugesund [M]

Rosenborg looked rattled for a while, but stormed back in the second half. With Dino Islamovic continuing his fine form and Vegar Essen Hedenstand coming up big off the bench.

Red Star Belgrade 6 – 0 FK Vozdovac

We were unbeaten heading into this game. And then Red Star reminded us all why they own a duopoly on the league. (Le sigh, or rather the uzdah)

Barcelona SC V CS Emelec [W]

DELAYED: DUE TO VOLCANO

Tapiaca 3 – 0 Alebrijes de Oaxaca

So despite the great showing to start the weekend, we end it with two drubbings and a Volcanic cancellation. Yeesh.

News & Notes

Kolkata keyed up for I-League

I apologize for being a bit behind on this news item. Last month India’s governing football federation decided to play not just a little tournament but the entire season inside a safety bubble. In this case it’s Kolkata, home of Pabrai’s Fresh & Naturelle Ice Cream (official ice cream shop of this blog, because I say so).

First they’ll host a round robin mini-tournament to promote a few second tier sides and then Punjab FC will take the field again in the beginning of November.

Screwy Season Takes Root

There’s a little time left to add players during the summer transfer window and many teams are making it count.

Freiburg has brought in replacements for Robin Koch and Alexander Schwolow in Baptiste Santamaría and Florian Müller.

The Loons added in some help to bolster their injury depleted squad with goalie — and striker Kei Kamara who’s been around and around and around the league.

Meanwhile Rosenborg and Ross County have sought out some cost savings by saying farewell to some surplus players.

Seriously, Volcano Delay

Seriously. I mean it. El Clásico del Astillero, the biggest rivalry in Guayaquil. The second match for Barcelona and Emelec in the Superliga Feminina was delayed. It was delayed because Sangay Volcano was active in the region. The teams will play on Wednesday instead.

Seriously, 2020 is weird.

Player of the Week

Several fine performances (plus the enforced absence of Clausen and Blakstad made for a tight race this week. We’re opting for scorer/distributor Roland Sallai. The combination of great play and vital context is much appreciated.

What’s Next

Wednesday, September 23rd

SC Barcelona v. CS Emelec [W]

Thursday, September 24th

11:00 Rosenborg v. Alanyaspor (M-E)

6:00 Alebrijes v. Mazatlan

Friday, September 25th

2:00 Emelec v. Deportivo Cuenca (M)

Saturday, September 26th

8:00 Kolbotn v. Rosenborg [W]

9:00 Ross County v Aberdeen

11:00 Bayern Munich v Freiburg [W]

12:00 Guingamp v. Grenoble [M]

1:00 FK Vozdovac v. Radnicki Nis

Sunday, September 27th

8:00 Grenoble v. Montaubaun [W]

11:00 Aalesund v. Rosenborg BK [M]

11:00 Freiburg v. Wolfsburg

Monday, September 28th

Tuesday, September 29th

Weeks 37: Ladies Nights and the Scores are Right.

September 11, 2020September 15, 2020 by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Minnesota United 3 – 2 FC Dallas

The Loons certainly know how to score now. Getting to watch half the game (a lengthy viewing session given your bed times), I was thrilled to see Bebelo dominate the midfield. It was great to see Kevin Molino and crew darting in and out of traffic to challenge the goal. It was difficult to watch Michael Boxall carry the entire defense on his back…but other than that, this is fun to see.

Alebrijes 2 – 2 Tlaxcala FC

It was a much needed first point in three matches for Oaxaca, but could have been an even more needed second win. A late equalizer keep last years fall champions far from their best, but not comfortable…yet.

Rosenborg 2 – 0 Roa ( W )

At the risk of tedium: the women were great, Marit Clausen was especially great, and the prospects for glory truly feel real. Still, over the next month, they’ll play only twice. Keeping this momentum will be tricky.

Ross County 0 – 5 Celtic

Celtic continues to suck the competitive joy out of Scotland like Boris Johnson sucks hope in governmental competence from England.

Chambly 1 – 2 Grenoble

Will wonders never cease! Les grenoblois gave up an early goal, played from behind for most of the game (per usual) BUT they also had a great defensive performance and came back to win in the last 20 minutes behind Jerome Mombris’ excellent stop and pin point assist.

FK Vozdovac 4 – 0 FK Metalac

I legitimately can not recall Vozdovac pulling this complete a victory together in the time we’ve watched them. (Editors note: because they haven’t.) The game plan seemed to be, set up with a thick midfield, and let ‘er rip outside the area. It worked for Milos Pnatovic, Edin Adjinovic, and Jovan Nisic. Let’s go ahead and let this Splash Brothers mentality take over the rest of the season

Olmedo 1 – 1 Emelec [M]

When you’re getting draws against opponents this far down the table something is amiss. The first round of games in this bizarre season is almost over and it can’t come too soon for Emelec.

Emelec 3 – 1 Guayaquil City [W]

Las eléctricas are back! The local southern league kicked off with a great win. (I’d say more but there is little else on the web for me to draw from)

Grenoble Foot 38 0 – 1 St Etienne [W]

Grand Geneva 1 – 3 Grenoble Foot 38 [W]

The women of Grenoble have actually been back in action for two weeks (sorry I missed last week y’all) and after a hard fought defeat to regional power St Etienne, they dominated Geneva.

SC Sand 0 – 3 SC Freiburg [W]

The lady griffins came out fast and never looked back in another stellar win for the women. (Noting a pattern here?) No Klara Buhl no problem as Freiburg held on thorughout

Stromsgodset 3 – 3 Rosenborg [M]

With 10 minutes to go things looked dire, having trailed since early in the first half, there seemed little chance of a comeback. It could have been a grossly disappointing defeat to a relegation area side. Then: Per and Dino rose to the occasion with a stellar showing to snatch a stalemate from the jaws of defeat.

Waldof Mannheim 1 – 2 Freiburg (M-C)

In the first cup match of our blog (seriously…most teams were out and others got cancelled) the tiny league 3 side almost pulled a stunner, until right back Jonathan Schmidt struck a winner. (The match also saw the first starting tandem for Korean kids Woo-Yeong Jeong and Chang-Hoon Kwon…the latter even got the first goal)

Sporting KC 1 – 0 Minnesota

Remember what I said about the Loons knowing how to score. I maintain that the team does, but when coach Adrian Heath opts for a whole sale line shift it doesn’t do anybody much good. Still, they kept it close and only a late bobble by Dayne St. Clair left the Loons in second place in the West.

News & Notes

Don’t send men to do a woman’s job

It is awfully nice to have all our female sides back in action this week. As las electricas and les Grenobloises join the Trolljenta and the Glamorous Griffins to take to the field. Even better, every ladies team recorded a win this week…can’t say that for the men folk.

Also, don’t send men to compete with this design.

Mahama’s Make it Rain Moment

I talk a lot about US politics, but I also notice Ghanaian politics (especially given that their presidential election is just four weeks after ours). NDC (Socialist) candidate John Mahama made an intriguing campaign promise to help every player in the Ghanaian League (including our own Legon Cities FC) to make 1500 cedis a month (or $250 bucks). Just for the sake of comparison: that would be 18,000 cedis in a year (or less than the median Ghanaian makes in the year). Still it would be a big boost to solvency in a league that has been hampered for decades, thereby winning the coveted: Soc’adamfo (Soccer friend) vote. (Also, I should note that it’s unclear if this would supplement existing salaries or replace them.)

Player of the Week

Again it was a pretty even mix of players with no one person turning in a superlative performance. (Unless you have access to game film of the ladies playing in Ecuador/Germany/France…in which case, please show me the dominance. I’d love to see it). In the meantime, we can’t title this with praise for the ladies and then hand it off to Jerome Mombis or Dino Islamovic (sorry guys, you’re worthy runners up). So let’s just say it again: Marit Clausen come on down you’re our favorite (again)!

What’s Next

Wednesday, September 16th

Thursday, September 17th

7:15 Ventspils v. Rosenborg BK (M-E)

Friday, September 18th

Saturday, September 19th

8:30 VfB Stuttgart v. Freiburg (M)

9:00 St. Johnstone v. Ross County

12:00 Grenoble v. AC Ajaccio

1:00 Red Star Belgrade v. FK Vozdovac

6:00 Emelec v LDU de Quito

Sunday, September 20th

11:00 Rosenborg BK v. FK Haugesund

9:00 Tapatio v. Alebrijes

Monday, September 21st

Tuesday, September 22nd

37. Just a Rest Stop on the Way Somewhere Better

September 11, 2020 by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Dear Boys,

While I often wax lyrical about sports as a means of understanding the world, it is also a business. and like most businesses, the employees have more on their minds than just the job in front of them.

For many people, the thing on their mind is the next career move. Going from cashier to manager. Going from the cubicle to the c-suite. From drudgery to your own business.

Sports is much the same. Sure you have to perform in the moment. But it’s impossible to ignore the fact that competitive people (like athletes) don’t just strive to be the best on the day. They strive to be the best they can be.

You rarely become the best you can be by standing still. So athletes are often looking out for their next career move. From the bench to the starting lineup, from starting to starring, from starring to selecting championship rings.

Few players dream of anything less than excellence. And while we have our favorite teams, the truth is our dream of local glory is far smaller than most players, and that is fine. Don’t begrudge players leaving our teams behind, appreciate what they brought while they were here.

This comes to mind as I see the slow motion unraveling of SC Freiburg. In the last weeks several stellar contributors have bade farewell to Freiburg im Breisgau. Schwolow, Waldschmit, and Koch May never be marquee names, but each one is a little closer to that honor after moving up to a bigger or more well known side.

Or take Emmanuel Bébelo Reynoso, the latest addition to Minnesota United. The young playmaker is highly touted and, based on his first games, justifiably so. But while it was a coup to bring him to St Paul, it is a fool who expects him to stay forever.

You’re chanting Minnesota Black & Blue as babies. He heard it for the first time…well never because we’re still not going to games. He’s a great player, but I doubt his boyhood dream was to go to freezing cold Minnesota and thrill tens of thousands. An Argentine starlet, he had the thrill of playing for Boca Juniors. I’d wager he’d love to ply his trade in Europe, or to suit up for the national team. Minnesota is great, but great players dream bigger (Note: living in Minnesota you should get used to that, just ask your relatives about David Ortiz, or Johan Santana, or Kevin Love or Kevin Garnett, or Randy Moss, or Maya Moore, or etc, etc, etc)

To some fans, the departures of great players may feel painful. Players who have won the loyalty of fans ought not to go, the fans think. We’ve loved them, why don’t they respect that and stick around?

They don’t stay because, while this is a hallowed ground for us, it’s just a line on the resume for them. What is a life time’s love of ours, is simply the current “To Do” for them.

That may sound sad, but it isn’t. I come to this not as a lifelong big city sports fan but as a kid who’s first sports loves were the Great Falls Dodgers baseball team. If most players dream bigger than a Minnesota, EVERYBODY dreams bigger than Great Falls, Montana. Nobody grows up dreaming of playing Rookie League ball on a patchy field in between dizzy bat contests.

That doesn’t offend me. I love Great Falls, those players don’t have to. It’s fun to support them for the time they’re there, and hope we helped make them better long term. I’m glad I got to watch Hall of Fame pitcher Pedro Martinez when he was a raw teenager. I’m even more glad I got to explain his brilliance to a bunch of Nigerian students in Ghana as he lifted the first World Series Trophy for over 80 years in Boston. He couldn’t have done that if he just wanted to stay put in Great Falls for the rest of his days. I’m glad he dreamed bigger than that. (If I’m sad about anything it’s that, at the end of this month, teams will stop sending players to Great Falls.)

Pedro’s Dreams were bigger than Great Falls, and it’s been great to see them come true. I hope Freiburg’s departing stars succeed, I really do. I hope Bébelo enjoys being here for now. I have no qualms about loving a place that’s a rest stop for most players on their way to something better, especially if we play a small part getting them where they want to go.

Weeks 35 AND 36: Teaching and Writing are Uncomfortable Bedfellows

September 7, 2020September 11, 2020 by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

For the first time since probably mid February there were both a bunch of games and a full time job on bmy plate… so rather than go back chronologically through the games that have happened here are some overriding takeaways from each side’s last two weeks.

Scores

Awful Alebrijes

Alebrijes 1 – 3 Dorados

Tepitlan 2 – 0 Alebrijes

270 minutes into the season, Alebrijes has scored once from open play. They have a habit of ceding early and staying behind. Last years trophy feels a long way away and not just because time is a flat circle in Corona-ville.

Ehhhh….Emelec….

Emelec 2 – 1 LDU Portoveijo

Técnico Universarito 2 – 0 Emelec

El Nacional 2 – 1 Emelec (M)

Emelec 2 – 2 Independiente de Valle

As Ecuador works double time to complete their two part season, Emelec seems like they’re biding their time waiting for the second half. In 4 of the 6 games since the return from COVID, they’ve allowed two goals. And only scored that many, twice.

Finding Freiburg

SC Freiburg 1 – 2 Bayern Leverkusen {W}

While the most consistently overachieving men’s team in Germany gears up for a new season without several stars, the women’s side started back without talisman Klara Bühl. Rebecca Knaak’s first half penalty seemed promising, but a late collapse left them frustrated in their opener.

Grinding Out Grenoble

Grenoble 5 – 3 Toulouse (M)

It wasn’t pretty at the back, but it got led bleus in the Win column for the first time in a while. Willy Semedo and Moussa Kailou Djitte exploited Left Back Kelvin Adou for three goals and our double star Yoric Ravet (formerly of Freiburg) got two assists with Brice Mableu recording a critical svae en route to an entertaining win in front of home fans (hey, remember them?!)

Missing in Minnesota

FC Dallas 3 – 1 Minnesota United

Houston 3 – 0 Minnesota United

Minnesota United 4 – 0 Real Salt Lake

All that good feeling and confidence evaporated pretty fast outside the Orlando bubble. But in true Minnesota sports form, just when you think you can write them off, they kick it into gear and make it interesting.

Heartbreaking but interesting. It might as well be the new state motto.

Ruling Rosenborg

Roa 2 – 3 Rosenborg BK

Rosenborg BK 4 – 2 Breidablik (M-E)

Rosenborg BK 1 – 1 Arna Bjornar

Rosenborg 2 – 2 Stabaek

LSK KVinner 0 – 1 Rosenborg {W}

Three more unbeaten matches for the Trolljenta put them in second place with a game in hand. The huge win in Lillestrom was especially valuable in fending off a fellow title contender.

Meanwhile, Åge Hareide and the Trollgutte have also been unbeaten of late, though their run hasn’t had the same effect on the table. Bodø/Glimt continue to run away with the league but RBK is closing ground on the top 3. That also coincides with a strong win in their first Europa League Qualifier dispatching Iceland’s Breidablik.

https://youtu.be/Wzq63UI2hiA

Ross County’s Return to Earth

Livingston 1 – 0 Ross County

The Staggies only lost a game. But they lost it to a bottom of the table side. And they slipped to sixth. And they now trail Celtic and Aberdeen who have each played two fewer matches. Things still look better than last year, but not quite title contention…yet…

Wild Variations at Vozdovac

Backa Backa Palanka 2 – 1 FK Vozdovac

Another week another wild start in Serbia. This time the first goal came inside two minutes. All the others were notched before the game turned ten minutes old. Then bupkus. Still, Vozdovac has put a goal in every time they’ve played this season, so they’re halfway there.

News & Notes

More Flights from Freiburg

It must be said, I really liked Robin Koch. He was as integral and fundamental an element of Freiburg’s success as coach Christian Streich or just mirroring fundamental German efficiencies.

It also seemed obvious that he was bound for greener pastures. Still, it stings to see him leave for Leeds United. Perhaps the Premier League will give a wider audience an appreciation for the Head Cook. But we’ll always get to play the hipster card of knowing him when. (Incoming Midfielder Guus Til hasn’t exactly lit up Spartak Moscow…so…fingers crossed)

Celtic Takes the Low Road and Staggies take the high road…

And County gets fans in the stands ‘afore ye.

Sure, Celtic might have hundreds of trophies, legions of fans, oodles of cash, and 4 members of the national team, but Ross County are leading the way in getting fans back to the field.

Careful testing, tracing and automated grounds should help the highlanders stay separate and stay safe before next weekend’s clash with the 9 consecutive trophy winning Glaswegians. 500 fans may be a pittance, but it’s a 500 fold increase over what players have dealt with in the first two months of the league.

So while Celtic has all that cache, and got a two game suspension for playing quarantine-breaker Boli Bolingboli (sidebar: best name ever), Ross County can have 500 supporters live to 0 for the Hoops.

Player of the Week

Perhaps goal scorers deserve more credit. Perhaps I’m biased. But perhaps Yoric Ravet is the player we not only get to follow, he’s the player we are meant to follow.

Yoric, we are getting to know him well
(Radio France)

What’s Next

Tuesday, September 8th

Wednesday, September 9th

7:00 Minnesota United – FC Dallas

Thursday, September 10th

Friday, September 11th

5:30 Alebrijes v. Tlaxcala FC

Saturday, September 12th

8:00 Rosenborg v. Roa ( W )

9:00 Ross County v. Celtic

12:00 Chambly v. Grenoble

1:00 FK Vozdovac v. FK Metalac

6:30 Olmedo v. Emelec

Sunday, September 13th

7:00 SC Sand v. SC Freiburg [W]

11:00 Stromsgodset v. Rosenborg

11:30 Waldof Mannheim v. Freiburg (M-C)

7:30 Sporting KC v. Minnesota