As the parent who takes charge of your breakfast and lunch, I know that favorite meals come in fads. I made salmon cakes throughout the pre-pandemic winter; I have a full mac and cheese preparation routine; I know that Owen’s smashed egg sandwiches aren’t finished until I say “smashy, smashy”. But few meals have as much meaning for life as Alex’s beloved jelly toast.
Dear Boys,
When bad things happen to favorite meals, there’s a lot of frustration.
Frustration might be underselling it.
When bad things happen at all, there’s a lot of tears/screams/flailing/doomsday talk . It makes sense after all. At only three and five years old, you boys feel everything more deeply because you only have so many experiences. Things are the best thing ever or the greatest injustice of your life, because it’s your life, it’s your ever. And every day and every problem feels like a big deal because you are (often) dealing with it for the first time.
I saw that drama start to take root one morning as the jelly toast tumbled off the kitchen counter.
“Whoops!” I Said, “we can get that!” But cheery as I sounded, Alex’s face had already clouded over like a microburst on the prairie.
“Hey Bud,” I said, “I see you’re upset. I think we’re gonna have to just blame it on the jelly”.
Alex looked confused, and I tried to explain, but quickly realized the best solution would be to show the video that inspired me.
Local goalkeeping hero Sammy N’djock might have had some shock going from Cameroon to Turkey, to Minnesota, but he was an excellent keeper, and a great role model in trying times.
That own goal was arguably one of the ugliest of the year. It was played on social media, it was laughed at around the world, I heard it talked about on multiple podcasts and given the goofy low-lights treatment on cable tv. But Sammy N’djock didn’t collapse when it happened, he (and the Minnesota United Team made a joke of it)
When the video was over, Alex laughed. “He made a mistake because there was jelly on his gloves!”
“Not really, Bud.“ I explained, “but he made a mistake, and rather than scream about it, he chose to laugh and move on. He just blamed it on the jelly, and it was over”.
I had hoped that this would give Alex an easy way to remember that even the most embarrassing moments are just that: moments. Even the hardest times can be learned from. The greatest embarrassments are just one laugh away from making you smile.
Lots of goalkeepers know that lesson. But Sammy N’djock, modeled that so well. A short memory, a positive approach and a good sense of humor all help you accept that hard times are real, but they aren’t the only times we have.
I wish I could say that “blame it on the jelly” helps Alex and Owen just laugh and let go of frustrations. (I wish I could say, I followed it all the time–but I don’t.) But the big feelings keep crashing over us, and sometimes we handle it, and sometimes we don’t. I don’t expect that this will solve everything, but I hope that, when you face big frustrations that could unsettle any adult, you can be like Sammy N’djock and blame it on the jelly.
Freiburg’s had a fabulous season, but it’s worth noting one key difference between them and the four teams that are ahead of them in the Bundesliga. As good as Freiburg has been they have only gotten 3 points of a possible 18 against the teams that are ahead of them (that’s one win, zero draws and seven losses). I’m not sure what will get Freiburg up to the top tier, but it will for sure need it.
Dundee United 1 – 3 Ross County
Jordan White hasn’t been the most dominant striker this season, but he did everything he needed to do to boost county off the foot of the table. His hattrick was a huge pendulum shift to knock Dundee down below them. It is by no means over, but that’s a big help to County’s cause.
Bodo/Glimt 3 – 2 Rosenborg (M)
Rosenborg was left continuously chasing this match as their defense. After giving up two goals in the first four matches, Samuel Rogers and his partners in the backline three have given up eight in the last three. Midfielder Edvard Tagseth still put together his best match of the season with both of the assists, but Rosenborg’s going to need to sort out the defense to get back on track this year.
Backa Topola 2 – 0 Vozdovac
Vozdovac looked strong until the final 15 minutes when Topola notched both their goals, and the Dragons could only sigh and accept their continued slide to the bottom of end of the championship division.
Metz 1 – 0 Grenoble (M)
Metz has excelled this year and is trying doggedly to keep themselves in contention for a promotion, this was the kind of win they needed to confirm their position, it’s a shame that it came at the expense of Grenoble, but so it goes.
Sporting KC 3 – 0 Minnesota (M)
The friendliest rivalry in soccer may not be quite as friendly in future after the lowest ranked side in the Western Conference smacked the Loons around in Kansas City, but that’s where we are. Looking around, hoping that something gets better before it gets worse.
MSV Duisburg 1 – 1 SC Freiburg (F)
Riola Xhemaili made an instant impact after she came on as a second half substitute, notching her 3rd goal of the campaign. But a poorly timed foul gave Duisburg a penalty and Freiburg had to share the spoils.
Brann 1 – 4 Rosenborg (F)
Emilie Nautnes scored within four minutes and Anna Josenesdal notched two goals (including one posted below) as The Trolljenta got back to their winning ways in Bergen. They are still only six points off the top of the table despite a lackluster few weeks.
Miller Bolanos returned and almost immediately scored! That’s the good news. The bad news is that Samuel Sosa’s foolish red card at the end of the first half opened the door for Quito to equalize making it seven straight league games without a win for los bombillos.
Rosenborg 1 – 0 FK Haugesund (M)
The menfolk of Trondheim also got back to winning with this result. Markus Henriksen was the most dangerous defender setting up almost every attack RBK had and providing sterling defense, which they needed. Despite being up a man for the last sixty minutes of the match, the Rosenborg attack continues to struggle, but did get an assist from 16 year old Sverre Halseth Nypan..who, and I can’t stress this enough: is 16 years OLD!
Minnesota 1 – 0 Houston Dynamo
The Loons got their first home win of the year just last night. It was a long time coming, but it came with both common sights (Miguel Tapias, Michael Boxall, and Kemar Lawrence playing strong defense) and strong trends (great work in space by Bongokhule Hlongwane, and all around presence by Dayne St. Clair).
News & Notes
All aboard the youth sports train
Alex now has three athletic activities a week booked up and ready to roll. There’s swimming lesson Saturday’s, Soccer Sundays, and T-Ball Mondays (Go Purple Caribou). So far your favorite position seems to be: “doing things” as evidenced by the rugby scrum for every t-ball grounder (which is to say, every t-ball hit). Owen was too young to get signed up this year, but does ask constantly if it’s his turn yet. So…it begins, and I likely won’t have a free moment for a good while to come.
Women’s Endings and Beginnings
Freiburg plays for the German Cup in a few hours, facing off against European giant side, Wolfsburg. They are underdogs, but they seem to thrive in that role, so we’ll keep our fingers crossed. Grenoble will play their final home match of the season this weekend, having escaped danger of relegation. And Minnesota Aurora will kick off their season this weekend including dual Aurora and Griz Keeper Bayliss Flynn, while the Griz will get their first peek at the fall schedule, while celebrating the players who recently got their degrees!
— Montana Griz Soccer 🐻⚽️ (@MontanaGrizSOC) May 13, 2023
Player of the Week
I try not to only pick goal scorers, but when you get a hat trick in the most important game of the season so far, you have to be player of the week. Kudos to you Jordan White!
Standings
A rough week for Freiburg sees them slide down the table (even though our table doesn’t mean a whole heck of a lot…I mean, if you finish 8th here on a random blog competition, but still qualify for the biggest leagues in Europe, you’re probably doing all right). But County’s big win boosts them farther away from Vozdovac…though again, beating Vozdovac doesn’t keep them in the top flight of Scotland…though I might petition otherwise.
Two losses at home to the same team in the same week. I try not to loathe anyone but man Leipzig makes it tempting…like the Yankees of German Fusball.
Ross County 2 – 0 Livingston
The Stags took their destiny by the horns (If you’ll forgive the pun) in a big win to kick off the relegation group against comfortably mid table Livingston. Yan Dhanda returned for his second match in nine weeks with two assists, including two great assists on superb crosses (Alex Iacovitti’s finish was particularly satisfying). Look out, County isn’t out of it yet! (Beating Dundee next week would be a big help)
Rosenborg 1 – 3 Valerenga (M)
A makeshift back line (absent Erlend Reitan) couldn’t give Rosenborg enough support, and a foolish foul by Andre Hansen sealed the team’s fate.
Paris FC 1 – 0 Grenoble (M)
The Alpiner’s defense finally cracked, and as the offense was unable to get a shot on goal, there wasn’t enough there to do anything but accept defeat.
Vancouver 3 – 2 Minnesota
The Loons were better at creating chances and threatening goal than they have been the last few matches, but it came at a cost of the defense giving more room and allowing the Whitecaps to capitalize.
SC Freiburg 1 – 1 Werder Bremen (F)
Lisa Kolb has made most of her appearances off the bench this season, as the Austrian works to establish herself as a top tier of the Griffins’ attack. She absolutely showed why she belongs at the tip of the attack creating a lot of danger with both passes and headers and finally setting up the vital equalizer.
Legon Cities 3 – 2 Nsoatreman
The Royals made the most of their best half in months. They haven’t notched three goals in one game since February, with strikers Samuel Armah and Ahmed Rahman notching goals, and Eric Bonsu cracking a gorgeous corner kick (or so I’ve been told as I can’t find video). The win it came at a great time. With matches against two top 5 teams in the next two weeks, any result would be a huge help.
The top of the Toppserien was too close to call in Trondheim. it was a little surprising that each team only made 1 substitute, we hope there’s a little more strategy in the next match-up.
Cumbaya 0 – 0 Emelec (M)
I’ve found something to say about other nil-nils but I’ve got nothing here.
Nimes Metropole Gard 0 – 6 Grenoble Foot (F)
That’s three at a trot for Grenoble’s ladies. Granted Nimes has only gotten 8 points this season, and they came in having allowed almost 70 more goals than they scored, but a win is a win and Melanie Chabrier’s brace offered a big addition to the cause from a less frequent source of offense (Claudia Fabre and Chelsea Supris, a bit more expected)
Red Star is a dangerous team in any competition, and this was no different. Even with homefield advantage, Vozdovac couldn’t find a way through…but that’s practically expected at this point.
Minnesota 3 – 3 Philadelphia (M-Cup–Loons advance on penalties 7-6)
Philadelphia has put together several years as one of the best teams in MLS, and while they rotated a lot of players out of the mid-week match, they took it seriously. But so did Minnesota, as Bongokhule Hlongwane continued his excellently aggressive approach with an assist and a goal within five minutes to give them a great lead. But then, fellow substitute Kai Wagner helped equalize deep in stoppage time to force overtime. Then Bongi did it again, with a second goal…and then Wagner did it again…and we ended up in a penalty shoot out. It took 8 penalties to decide it, when finally Kai Wagner was stopped to end the game, courtesy of Clint Irwin (who just last year was mockingly named “Old Dutch” when he was in goal for a different team)
News & Notes
El Rey in happier times
Return of the King
Emanuel Reynoso is back in Minnesota. The team has managed to hold their own without him, but as a dynamic playmaker it could be really helpful. Of course…letting a malcontent midfielder run the show while players who want to be there twiddle their thumbs…could be seriously harmful.
Irresponsible conjecture
We said hi to an old friend during the county game, former Punjab talisman Kurtis Guthrie who made a brief substitute cameo before getting a red card.
Kurtis hasn’t had a great season in Scotland, but Footmob ranks him at 6.1 per game…just as good as County’s strikers this season.
So…if Punjab’s best striker last season would make the grade as County’s best too…maybe Luka Macjen or Juan Mera or just maybe Chencho Gyeltsen…might look good in Dingwall…LET THE RUMOR MONGERING BEGIN!!!
Beograd Jak
Serbia has been rocked by tragedy the last two weeks. People have used a variety of guns to shoot groups of people without any clear reason.
To be honest, there is no reason that could justify these senseless killings. We see them far too often here in the US, but, despite Serbia’s fondness for guns, it rarely happens there. So the acts, and the victims shocked many.
So, Monday Vozdovac took the field and stood in silence, even though it was a marquee match against front running Red Star. Players advocated for change by wearing shirts that read:
The dragon’s heart is sad these days because something ugly is happening in our Serbia.
Nine lives were extinguished one day, and eight were lost the next day too.
We have nothing left but to ask our neighbors to love even more.
Let’s all fight for a better tomorrow, let’s create a more beautiful Serbia for children!
Kudos to them
This is my best attempt to clean up what Google identified as Bosnian but I’m pretty sure was Croatian.
I have read about questions regarding the government’s use of strict laws and endorsements from public figures (like soccer clubs) to push an agenda. Frankly, I’m not inclined to doubt people’s intentions. Vozdovac saw pain and (along with Red Star) spoke out to comfort their supporters.
My hearts are with the families and friends of the victims in Serbia, and my voice is raised along with Vozdovac.
Bongi Unleashed (from Star Tribune)
Player of the Week
It seemed like pretty slim pickings for best player of the week. Only three sides (County, Legon, and Grenoble’s Ladies side) managed to get wins, but they all did it with a degree of difficulty: relegation staring down the sides in Scotland and Ghana and a road trip for the French. While Yan Dhanda’s distribution and Eric Bonsu’s delivery and Melanie Charbier’s breakthrough were all positives, it’s hard to overlook the massive positive that was Bongokhule Hlongwane’s sterling performance in a knock out cup game. I’ll also hope that not recognizing County and Legon encourages them to keep it up and earn plaudits in future weeks.
Standings
There’s only one change in the standings this week, with County’s big win pushing them up off the bottom of the table (for now). Legon and Grenoble also got closer to Minnesota and Rosenborg, but the gap between those four and Punjab just seems to be growing.
Emelec had a lead against a dangerous rival in Ecuador’s Serie A early on in the second half, and then it all came undone. Goalscorer Jhon Sanchez drew a red card, and though it took them some time, Independente capitalized…scoring twice in the last 5 minutes of regular time to win the match.
Rosenborg BK 3 – 0 Lyn Football (F)
A week after their first slip of the season, the Trolljenta were back in action. Emilie Joramo opened the scoring (continuing to make defensive midfielders around our leagues look awesome on a great run in combination play), and Emilie Nauntes finally got on the scoresheet but the attack remains unsettled in Trondheim.
Koln 0 – 1 Freiburg (M)
Lucas Holer has been making magic happen with his boots lately, but in this showing he spread the wealth around connecting aon a bit of head to head ping pong with Ritsu Doan to net the winner. The excellent timing kept Freiburg squarely in the conversation for European soccer.
Grenoble 2 – 0 Niort (M)
Les Alpiners have solidified their spot in the middle of the Ligue 2 table (with this win they officially made it impossible to be demoted), but the real focus for this year now needs to be defining who will help lead the team going forward. Mathais Phaeton certainly seems to be Jessy Benet’s new midfield partner in crime and Abdoulie Sanyang threat on the right (complete with goal in this match) makes him a plus too. Keep an eye on the defense which has been stout, and still includes the ever amusing Loic Nestor back heel (setting up the second goal in this match).
Vojvodina 2 – 0 Vozdovac
Back-to-back wins didn’t become a winning streak for the dragons as they fell to Vojvodina (but as this result helped Vojvodina leapfrog the fascists at Partizan Belgrade in the race for European soccer…I’m okay with that.)
Dreams FC 5 – 1 Legon Cities
Welp, there went the Royals’ momentum. The social media team was NOT pleased with the ref, and I can see why: two red cards in the second half was a pretty rock road to hoe. But would it be spring of a Legon season if there wasn’t untoward drama?
And that happened. (Seriously though, Rosenborg’s 3 goals in 4 matches is worryingly poor. Isak Thorvaldsen was pulled after one half and Oscar Aga had more chances but was similarly ineffective. Erlend Reiten and Samuel Rogers have been vital in defense, but they can’t do everything.
Minnesota 0 – 0 Dallas (M)
Speaking of defenders we’re grateful for, in our first match at Allianz field this season we were impressed by Kemar Lawrence. The defender was an absolute bulldozer both with and without the ball, and we know how you boys like bulldozers. Bongokhule Hlongwane and Luis Amarilla tried to be, but found that kicking while falling over doesn’t provide enough power to score.
Avaldsnes 1 – 1 Rosenborg BK
The search for a reliable goal scorer continues. With Celine Nergård netting her first goal of the season, but then leaving with 30 minutes to play. Mixing and matching strikers hasn’t worked yet…but don’t bet against the Trolljenta.
From Dfb.de (Freiburg Falls Down)
Freiburg 1 – 4 RB Leipzig (M-Cup)
Hopes were high for revenge on Red Bull and a return to the dfb Pokal Final. In about twenty minutes hopes were dashed and there was no joy in Freiburg. The two teams play again this weekend…more reason for revenge.
Rosenborg 0 – 2 Brann (M)
Rosenborg’s best work this year has come when the defense is able to be themselves and hold down the fort (thanks again Sam Rogers). So when they drew two yellow cards before the first ten minutes, they were set up to struggle. Sure enough Brann ran straight at them and picked up two goals against the Rosenborg side with 5 yellows before the match was done and dusted.
Guarani 1 -1 Emelec (M-South American Cup)
Alejandro Cabeza consistently appears when Emelec needs him most. Like Batman, only without the dark and brooding backstory. So it was here when he struck late in the second half to salvage a road point in Paraguay.
94 Years ago, American George Capwell started a baseball team with his electrical company. Soon the workers asked to start a football team too, almost a century later, here we are with both men and women playing and exciting people who’ve never even been to Ecuador itself. A testament to what happens when you listen to your workers (this may or may not be thinly veiled suggestion for my employers)
I turn heads of random drivers on Lexington Avenue
A couple of months ago, Alex was sick and throwing up all over the place. On our drive to the Urgent Care, I was stunned to see a Red Chevy with an SC Freiburg Decal. In part because Freiburg isn’t exactly a world renowned side, and also in part because seeing them endorsed on a road firmly within our little corner of St. Paul seemed extremely odd. Eventually Alex felt better, we cleaned the puke out of the car, and I saw the Red Freiburg Chevy a few more times. Finally, this last week, I managed to actually be stopped at a light next to them, urged them to roll down the window and shouted “Freiburg Uber Alles” to a great laugh from the family inside. Love of a favorite team man, it connects people in weird ways and unforeseen places.
Player of the Week
It’s hard to find a lot of comprehensive statistics for defenders. But I generally trust FootMob’s point of view when it comes to overall quality of play. In that regard it’s hard to argue against giving overdue recognition to a new right back (because at some point we come to expect Gaspar, Monfray and Nestor to be awesome). So hat’s off to Mathys Tourraine who certainly fits the mold of Grenoble’s new Dartagnan
Standings
As we come into May we’ve got a lot of teams getting ready for their big final pushes in their domestic seasons. But in the year long MacKenzie Cup we’re not yet half-way through. Grenoble’s improvement for both the men and the women made them the biggest gainers in this week’s standings, while more slips have continued Emelec’s tumble (obligatory reference to Miller Bolanos goes here).
Los Bombillos won! And they did it without Miller Bolanos doing everything!! And it was in a continental competition!!! Cain Jair Fara delivered a perfectly timed and placed header to show that Emelec’s reinforced defense is just as valuable as their internationally experienced striker.
Vozdovac 2 – 1 FK Radnicki
The Dragons flew back in fine form (which is especially welcome after their rocky start to the 2023 year). Bogdan Jocic had himself a game with a supremely cheeky back heel for Vozdovac’s first big chance and then a blistering shot from distance to record the first goal. Vozdovac kept the pressure up consistently to handle the match with ease.
Bayern Munchen 8 – 2 SC Freiburg (F)
This uh…this was not good…
Hearts 6 – 1 Ross County
This was also rough…I mean…oooh boy…
Rosenborg BK 0 – 1 LSK Kvinner (F)
It may not be a massive rivalry to the minds of many, but I always look at these games between Rosenborg and Lillestrom’s finest as a top tier show down in the Toppserien. The win is particularly big given that it ended Rosenborg’s winning streak and opened the door for Valerenga to jump up into first place.
Seattle Sounders 0 – 1 Minnesota (M)
It’s never easy to go into Seattle and get points from one of the most prestigious teams on the West coast. The Loons have gotten one win and one draw out of the twelve matches the two teams have held. This match was much like the others, Minnesota couldn’t seem to get things going and spent most of the match playing defense….almost successfully.
Karela United 0 – 2 Legon Cities
Michael Otou continues to be in some pretty spectacular form, with another goal ripped from an impressive distance. Kofi Kordzi put together a fabulous run to make another goal possible for Alex Aso. And Legon got a much needed win in the Royal derby
Freiburg 4 – 0 Schalke 04 (M)
I came home to do some frantic cleaning during your Sunday school, and for my time I got the reward of a big Freiburg win with Michael Gregositch being in the perfect place at the perfect time for his second goal. An excellent touch from Ritsu Doan setting up Lucas Holer and a very nice play by my new favorite name: Merlin Rohl (who at 20 years old, could have been my student when Alex was born…he wasn’t, obviously, but…oooh boy…feeling old.)
Rosenborg 1 – 1 Sandefjord (M)
While the women struggled, Rosenborg’s men rose to the occasion with a tremendously timed Carlo Holse goal that seemed to defy physics as it squirted through legs and arms and every part of the defense before hitting the net deep into injury time. (Kudos to another cheeky assist, this one from Canadian Jayden Nelson)
Musuc Runa 0 – 0 Emelec (M)
A goalless draw is hardly note worthy, but hey, Emelec extended their not losing streak!!
Grenoble Foot 4 – 0 Clermont Foot (F)
Apparently when it rains it pours for Grenoble! They grabbed their third straight win after seven winless rounds to start 2023. Could things be peaking just in time for the World Cup? (Florsie Joseph’s two goals certainly give us hope!)
Bordeaux does seem to be well on track for promotion, while Grenoble has settled in neatly into the middle of the table, and in that way this was absolutely unsurprising.
Detroit City FC 1 – 3 Minnesota United (M-Cup)
Detroit City got out to a great start and held the lead at half-time, but Minnesota came roaring back with both Luis Amarilla and recent debutant Emmanuel Iwe smashing it (the second off of a–you guessed it–cheeky assist from Franco Frangapane), and moving the team through to the fourth round of the US Open Cup.
Legon Cities 2 – 0 Accra Lions
The Royals are so hot right now, it’s basically like trying to drink Nkatekwan fresh off the boil. This time it was Kofi Kordzi and Ebenezer Armegah who got the big goals, and their three game winning streak couldn’t have come at a better time, boosting them up to tenth in the league. Though with only five points between them and the relegation spots, there’s no time to rest.
Novi Pazar 0 – 1 FK Vozdovac
Borisav Burmaz has been arguably the most integral and decisive attacker in recent Vozdovac history. Perhaps never more so than getting the stoppage time goal to give them a big win over Novi Pazar. At the same time, quietly consistent keeper Andrija Katic’s excellent defense continued to keep Vozdovac in matches that they might otherwise capitulate in.
Raya2Expansion 2 – 0 Alebrijes
And just like that Alebrijes’ season is over. (I know it surprised me too) After their single round against the other teams int he Liga de Expansion Clausura they got their playoff game against Raya2 last night, and…it was over before it really got going. Raya2 scored twice in the first half and there was not much of a path back after that. Ah well, we can always look forward to the new wild uniforms the Oaxacans debut when the 2023 Apertura opens in the summer. (Man, Mexico, I need more clarity on the beginning and end of your seasons….)
News & Notes
Vozdovac takes the top of the split
They may get to the second tier before you.
The Dragons are back in action this week, and they’re taking flight among the top tier of the Serbian league, including the Belgrade duopoly (and surprising interlopes: Cukarici, and Backa Topola). Realistically Vozdovac are 18 points out from qualifying for European action, so they’re while they get to play against the best local competition, it’s pretty clear where they’re going to land.
Ross County takes the low road
The Staggies on the other hand will have nothing but meaningful games from here on out. There’s just five games between them and a demotion to the second tier of Scottish Soccer. They’ll have to make up four points on their nearest rivals to get out of trouble with the final match of the year against fellow battlers Kilmarnock looming especially large. They only have two home matches, but given that they’ve been a better than other teams on the road this year, maybe that’s a good thing? Or maybe I’m desperate.
We Missed One
Ghana Soccernet for the Win
In the rush of trying to track games across the league we admittedly missed one: Legon Cities loss to Bibiani Gold Stars in the Ghanaian Cup. (You know this wouldn’t happen if it was easier to follow cups than leagues…looks pointedly at federations without sponsorships that raise the profile…)
Player of the Week
There were plenty of cheeky moments throughout this week, young players finding clever ways to tap the ball here and there and everywhere. But we can’t help but give the recognition to a man who has both scored, and defended like a champion while boosting his team to a strong showing of late: Legon’s Defensive Midfielder Michael Otou, c’mon down you’re the player of the week
Standings
There’s a new team at the top, a new team at the bottom, and two new teams on their breaks.
Rosenborg’s less than perfect week slipped them down a notch so Punjab could move back into our local league lead. Emelec made a big move (which is just proof that winning three helps, losing three hurts, and getting a mix of results has a mix of results). Alebrijes’ loss wrapped up their part of this season with an unconvincing showing, while Vozdovac’s pair of wins vaulted them out of the bottom position…and let Ross County fall there.
Alebrijes’ up and down form continued as, Julio Cruz made an impact within 2 minutes of coming on in the second half, but couldn’t get the win.
Ross County 0 – 1 Aberdeen
It’s been rough going for County this year, but that shouldn’t fall on the defense. Alex Iacovitti, Jack Baldwin and Keith Watson have created the strongest back line outside of Glasgow (and the dominant Old Firm). But their attack has been worse than everyone except Kilmarnock). They are 20 goals off of their total last year (and clearly miss Charles Regan Cook)
RB Leipzig 0 – 1 SC Freiburg (F-Cup)
It’s another Cup final for Freiburg, this one coming thanks to a victory over corporate rival RB Leipzig. It was a tense affair going all the way to the sixth minute of stoppage time, when Hasret Kayici (who else) got on the right end of a great volley to net the winner that sends die Frauen to the finals.
Emilie Joramo scored early for win. That should complete the defensive midfielder’s allotment for the year, but when it nets three points it was clearly well timed.
Minnesota 1 – 2 Orlando (M)
The Loons couldn’t seem to convert on their opportunities, but had great chances. On a normal day Bongokhule Hlongwane’s wild man unleashed style shoulda woulda given the Loons 2 goals. But news is rarely about what coulda happened, and as Orlando actually did get the goals that’s all that counts.
Punjab finally got some points in the cup, came against their fellow I-Leaguers, and unfortunately after they were eliminated. It is some consolation for Punjab to get a win in the Super Cup, even if it leaves them finishing bottom of their group, it came against their old rivals in Delhi. If we learned anything from this tournament, it’s that the Warriors have some work to do before the ISL campaign starts up in the fall. (I’m still not sure if coach Staikos Vergetis’ more defensive plan is the way to go to limit opponents, or if the best defense is a good offense)
Werder Bremen 1 – 2 Freiburg (M)
Bremen looked best during the first half but Lucas Holer and Roland Sallai were a great combo returning the benefits to one another to get the win.
Legon Cities 2 – 0 Kotoku Royals
Michael Otou’s brace against bottom of the table Royals was very valuable. (Teams 13-17 are all tied at 31 point, two of the five will be relegated…hopefully not our Royals)
Molde 1 – 1 Rosenborg (M)
Rosenborg’s best period of pressure led to an own goal and the required work for a draw.
Olympique Marseille 1 – 3 Grenoble Foot (F)
A win. On the road. Against a prestige club like Marseille. Wowza, when the ladies of Grenoble come back, they come all the way back! A double for Jade Decilap was instrumental in the result.
It remains the Miller Bolanos show in Emelec, as in, why can’t we do anything without Miller Bolanos? The talismanic midfielder’s absence was palpable again, as Los Bombillos had plenty of possession but couldn’t seem to do much with it after Jose Cevallos scored in the early going.
Grenoble 0 – 2 Saint-Etienne (M)
It was a good but not really outstanding effort for Grenoble in the shirt sponsor Derby. But the pictures of the game looked like a lot of fun
Alebrijes 1 – 0 Pumas Tabasco
Julio Caesar Cruz was the man of the night, scoring his sixth of the campaign on what can best be described as a goal by default and keeping Oaxaca in the thick of the mid table tussle.
Asane 0 – 3 Rosenborg (F)
In their second match of the week, the Troll ladies (which is a nickname I will keep using no matter that I’m the only one using it) continued their perfect start to the season. The veterans Cesilie Andreassen and Synne Hansen both scored
News & Notes
Blakstad’s Back in the Ice and Snow
Blog favorite Julie Blakstad‘s time in Manchester has been generally strong. She seems to score at every opportunity, but there are plenty of talents to employ at one of the world’s biggest clubs. So rather than giving her a richly deserved role, Julie has been loaned out to Swedish side BK Häcken. Obviously, we’d have preferred a return to the black and white of Trondheim, but if Julie’s happy, we’re happy.
Player of the Week
With multiple braces we could open an orthodonture clinic (ba-dum CHING!!). But the player who made us smile the most has to be Jade Decilap who has helped Grenoble’s Mesdames get back on track AND boasts far more swag than I do.
Punjab nearly got back to the top spot on their own skills with their win of Deccan, but if we’ve learned one thing in these last years it’s to NEVER bet against the women of Rosenborg. Meawhile, Emelec’s slide continues, without Miller Bolanos they seeem to be bereft…not unlike my heart
Kotoko might be one of Ghana’s true giants, but Legon always seems up to the challenge. Alex Aso got the equalizer to keep Legon looking tough
Arna-Bjornar 0 – 1 Rosenborg (F)
The Trolljenta got another win but it took a late winner from Emilie Nautnes to snatch the points.
Freiburg 1 – 1 Hertha BSC (M)
The boys of Breisgau haven’t lost domestically in almost two months, but that’s come with a lot of disappointing draws, including this one to relegation battlers Hertha after Vincenzo Grifo got the lead
Vozdovac 0 – 1 Javor
The dragons dropped another home match. I’m not sure what would help make home cooking work for them but they have a long way to go to catch up with the top four sides in Serbia.
Grenoble 2 – 1 Armiens (M)
Jessy Bennet slotted home a first half penalty and nearly scored a very cheeky chip shot. Abdoulie Sanyang got the second half winner, but attention should also be paid to 22 year old Mathys Tourraine who has quickly become a vital cog in both defense and attack for Les Alpiners.
Delfin 3 – 2 Emelec (M)
It was a testy match in Ecuador with three spot kicks given (and all of them converted). Miller Bolaños left room for someone else (Alejandro Cabeza) to score, but he also left the match early due to an injury, which isn’t what you’d hope to see for the clear talisman of the team. Defender Fernando Leon drew a second yellow card to leave the team a man short and ultimately leaven enough room room for Delfín to keep threatening and finally snatch a late winner.
St. Louis City 0 – 1 Minnesota (M)
Both teams came into the match undefeated, but only the visitors left that way. St. Louis had control for most of the match, but when the Loons threatened, they made the most of it. Luis Amarilla smashed in the winning penalty after bottling some strong opportunities. The reinvigorated back line, especially the eternally present Michael Boxall stood tall to stop St Louis from equalizing.
Ross County 0 – 2 Celtic
Within regular time County earned a draw. But soccer also includes extra time, and that’s where Celtic scored.
Freiburg 0 – 1 Turbine Potsdam (F)
Potsdam handed the Frauen their fifth straight loss…this one turning on Meret Witje’s own goal. Ugh.
Grenoble Foot 1 – 0 Thonon Evian (F)
Good news for Freiburg the ladies of the Alps broke their own five game skid with a vital win, and one against one of the best teams in France’s second division. Goalkeeper Bolkach had an excellent game defending against Thonon’s potent attack and in a last minute counter attack Claudia Fabre picked out newcomer Florsie Joseph and Grenoble got a tremendous winner. So hey, Freiburg, there’s hope!
Bibiana Gold Stars 3 – 2 Legon Cities FC
A wild first half saw the Gold Stars take the lead, after Ebenezer Armegah and Eric Bonsu briefly gave Legon the edge. and despite their best efforts (and a reversed goal), the Royals lost and dropped firmly into the relegation zone
Bayern Munich 1 – 2 Freiburg (M-Cup)
Few teams are as dominant as Bayern Munich are in Germany, but for the third straight year Freiburg has either matched or outperformed them in the Cup.
Nicholas Hofler connected with as beautiful a goal as you will ever see to balance the books. The defensive line (especially Ginter, Gunter, and Gulde) stymied an insistent Bayern attack until they forced Bayern into more mistakes, this time with a series of fouls that allowed Lucas Holer to win it on a hand ball Penalty Kick in extra time.
To celebrate, Freiburg got to face Munich again on the weekend and will face Liepzig, the team that beat them in last year’s final, in the semi’s
Partizan Belgrade 1 – 0 Vozdovac
Partisan can be a brutal opponent. So much so that in the last 7 matches they won by an average of 3-0. So the red dragons only losing by 1 is a high water mark not seen since March of 2020.
Danubio 2 – 0 Emelec (M-South American Cup)
Danubia hasn’t been great shakes in their local Uruguayan league this year. But they had no trouble containing or attacking Emelec. The best news, Uruguayan native midfielder — had one of his best games yet for Los Bombillos.
Alebrijes 1 – 0 Cancun FC
Armando Gonzalez got an early goal off a rebound from Ernesto Reyes’ blast of a free kick. Even though Oaxaca earned 4 yellow cards in 12 minutes, and were unable to make good on several one-on-one opportunities, they withstood the pressure of Cancun.
Freiburg 0 – 1 Bayern Munich (M)
Munich got their win back in the domestic league, capitalizing on the early departure of Manuel Gulde to bedevil the back line and batter the Freiburg net to the tune of 3.5 expected goals. In that light, even losing by one is a bit of an accomplishment for Freiburg. (Not one they’re going to put in their hall of fame, but something at least)
St. Johnstone 0 – 2 Ross County
The Staggies returned to action and got a win for the first time since February! Jordan White made a major nusiance of himself and set up Simon Murray (who came on for the injured Eamonn Brophy) for the first goal on an absolute banger. Then rarely used midfielder David Cancola made the most of his moment getting one of his own on a scrambled ball into the box.
Kerala Blasters 3 – 1 Punjab FC (Cup)
Punjab’s first effort against a Super League side left a little something to be desired. Kerala was able to control the match despite Punjab rolling out a broader midfield than usual, which did slow down Kerala for the first half, until a penalty gave the Blasters the lead. A half time swap of midfielder Maheson Singh for attacker Krishnananda Khundongbam paid off with Punjab’s goal, but the more expanded midfield was easier for Kerala to get past (leading to two more goals and the win)
Laval 0 – 1 Grenoble (M)
Mathais Phaeton got the early goal thanks to a scintillating through ball from (who else) Jessy Bennet and Brice Mableu was able to shut down Laval for the rest of the match to seal a win.
Chicago Fire 2 – 1 Minnesota United
Kei Kamara took two early goals for Chicago, and by the time your mom and I tuned in after you were tucked in at last, we were at the desperate crosses situation for the Loons. Kervin Arriaga got one, but despite many fine chances and amazing efforts, Bongokhule Hlongwane couldn’t score the vital equalizer.
Aucus 2 – 1 Emelec (M)
Emelec’s struggles continued with another loss, bouyed only by Jose Cevallos’ injury time consolation goal. The team that lives by Miller Bolanos, also dies by Miller Bolanos (at least when Miller Bolanos is out of the match with an injury, but even then we will still write Miller Bolanos’ name so many times that we summon him to Minnesota).
Rosenborg 1 – 0 Viking (M)
Rosenborg started their campaign with a revenge win against the team that knocked them out of the cup (kind of like the reverse Freiburg experience). Ulrik Jennssen was a pest in defense, and Adrian Pereira celebrated his first start since August of last year with the winning goal off of a half volley in the middle of nothing.
Vozdovac 1 – 3 TSC Backa Topola
Danilo Teodorovic scored first, but Topola came back with a vengeance. We would be upset, but any team that breaks up the Partizan/Red Star duopoly is okay in our books.
Punjab FC 0 – 2 Bengaluru FC (Cup)
Again Punjab set up in a defensive posture which…again worked for the first half, and then, when they got a little more aggressive in the second half, Bengaluru capitalized and took the lead. Huidrom Singh’s second yellow card didn’t help matters and let Bengaluru seal the win.
News & Notes
Jonah Attuquaye off to Latvia
We’ve made no mistake about it, Jonah Attuquaye is one of our all time favorite players during this project. He almost single handedly lifted up the Royals from their lowest ebbs and kept them consistently fresh when they desperately needed to be. But, all things must come to an end, and a player of Jonah’s caliber deserves a fresh challenge and opportunity. Last month (far below the radar of all the news I was following) he got that opportunity with a move to FK Auda in Latvia (which my former students say is lovely).
I truly hope he excels in Europe and maybe, in a season or so, there’s room for him in Rosenborg or Ross County.
Indian Super Cup Starts…and Ends
It was a pretty brief break for Round Glass Punjab as they spent a month celebrating their championship in the I-League, but the Super Cup provides them with a chance to prove themselves before the Super League starts next fall. They did draw a dangerous group, featuring two ISL playoff teams (Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru FC) and a fierce I-League rival (Sreenidi Deccan…you know…the team they were fighting for the trophy for months). We love a new competition, and we love Punjab, but the results from the first week of action made the next steps moot as the two losses show they are already eliminated…(Chenchyo Geltsyen’s absence was palpable.)
Spring Break! woo.
I love you boys. I love your mom and her family. I love travel.
This was hard.
We spent 6 days in Los Angeles, where the weather was lovely and I felt completely exhausted regardless. You guys had great fun seeing all the science and sunshine that LA could offer and playing happily with your Auntie, random kids at a scenic playground and a variety of newly adopted stuffies and Dino toys. You also did not understand time differences and insisted on waking me up at 4:30, and only going to bed at 8:30 PM…though the easy access to massive cakes and jelly beans may not have helped things.
Travelling with you is a privilege…it’s also a big responsibility. But you’re so darned cute.
BootRoom Book Review
From Madani’s Best Game by Fran Pintadara illustrated by Raquel Catalina
To save room in my backpack (and also because I’m forgetful), we didn’t bring bed time books along with us on this trip. So we turned to the thing that all humans turn to for answers these days: a smart phone. Soon enough, the St Paul library gave us access to several nice books including one appropriate for this blog Madani’s Best Game
The story of a star player in an anonymous neighborhood was a fine bit of soccer lore. It had clear pictures of the action, a great sense of the role of a team, and an appropriate level of drama building up to the final match.
But really the story was less about soccer, and more about a kid’s love for his mother. Much as you guys like a soccer story, you love to love your mom.
Players of the Weeks
Jessy Bennet must be acknowledged. The midfielder has managed to pilot les bleus to certainty and security in the second league, which has been in short supply since his departure after 2021.
Also worth noting is Ernesto Reyes, whose leadership and defense has continued to help Oaxaca out of their traditional funks.
Standings
The Super Cup did a real number on Punjab’s position atop the table. It can happen when you get twice as many defeats in one span as you had in the past three months. As a result, Rosenborg, returned to the top spot this year as both the men and women are undefeated in the league so far this young season. (The one loss was in the cup.) Meanwhile, the difficulty in getting decisive results has taken its toll on Freiburg and Vozdovac.
Fresh off their biggest win in quite a while, Alebrijes looked a little tired. Even though Jair Cortes got them off to a strong start, the defense buckled and Atletico was soon able to take a lead that they kept for the rest of the match, breaking Oaxaca’s unbeaten streak.
Rosenborg 3 – 0 Staebek (F)
RBK has been near the top of the Toppserien ever since they joined the Rosenborg family. But they’ve yet to win one. Clearly, they started out this season looking to break through and grab the big trophy. Cesilie Andreassen, who may be the longest serving RBK alum we know, started the affair to get Rosenborg flying high. Synne Skinnes Hansen and Anna Langas Josendal added their own to kick off the new campaign in style.
Minnesota 1 – 1 Vancouver (M)
There is no other word for it: this was brutal. The Loons got a lead through sheer grit and determination. The Loons held on to that lead with a great showing from back up goal keeper Clint Irwin. I got to watch the debut of a Emmanuel Iwe who seemed to breathe fresh life and excitement into everything he did. They held on to the lead for all of regulation time and stoppage time…and then…the refs gave Vancouver one more chance. The Whitecaps scored. I cursed. Your mom shushed me. And heads hung low. You know a Minnesotan sports event.
My new fave: Mr .Ewe
Bayer Leverkusen 2 – 0 Freiburg (F)
Leverkusen led the way through the midfield and left die Frauen flabbergasted. Janina Minge was able to give the best showing on a bleak day.
Great Olympics 1 – 1 Legon Cities
I’ve had a hard time tracking down any news from this match. The big equalizer came from my fellow Thursday born: Kwabena Adu Medier.
Toulouse FC 3 – 0 Grenoble Foot (F)
The bad news kept on coming for the ladies of Grenoble. Reports suggested that they did not look cohesive or united. They gave up a goal in the first minute and didn’t seem to threaten after that.
Cimmarones 0 – 0 Alebrijes
This happened. It also began a new unbeaten streak for Alebrijes!! (More importantly it kept them very close to the playoff spots as the season’s second half winds down to a close.)
News & Notes
March Madness Corner
It’s rare that the drama is out of the basketball tournament this early, the title is still up for grabs and this year’s final four features a host of unlikely candidates. But for our purposes it really is all over.
Your mom followed her heart and picked owls and huskies to do well, so she’s the only person with two final four teams left. Give her all the credit in the world and know that I’ll be looking at Owl related teams should any of our other favorites have to disband.
Spring Break! WOO!
On Saturday, we fly out to visit your Auntie Julianna at her new home in Los Angeles. I fully anticipate that we will have some memorable moments and some frustrating ones as well, and as such, I’ll be present watching you be you, rather than watching the scores of distant soccer scores
Player of the Week
As the grand dame of the Kvinner (and the only person to help lead a team to victory this weekend), we have to tip the cap to Cesilie Andreassan (even though part of me wants to pick Emmanuel Iwe just because he was so fun to watch)
Standings
We were in a rush to pick you guys up from preschool so these aren’t up to date.
There is no joy in Freiburg, a collection of globally elite talents from one of the wealthiest clubs in European history beat them handily. Le sigh. At least we gave them a pretty good showing.
Livingston 2 – 1 Ross County
While County might feel duly frustrated that they had the best chances and came out with the worse result. But their shots were far wilder than Livvie’s and even if you have great chances if you don’t hit them toward goal it doesn’t matter. Keith Watson, Jordan White and Eamonn Brophy could all use some target practice.
Cukariki 3 – 1 Vozdovac
Borisav Burmaz’s early penalty gave some hope for a big road win, but Cukariki came back alive to stymie the Dragon’s fire
Sochaux 1 – 0 Grenoble (M)
Vincent Hognon sent out a mostly second choice side and paid the price as the reserve defenders looked overworked, and the reserve attackers couldn’t break through. They nearly held out for a draw but a late Sochaux goal sealed their fate
Emelec 1 – 0 Tecnico Universitario
They had to wait a week but Emelec got another win. And once again the man in the middle of it all was Miller Bolaños, whose penalty made all the difference.
Colorado 1 – 2 Minnesota (M)
Matches against Colorado always involve a surprising degree of drama, but this one was fun. After falling behind early in the second half, Hassani Dotson’s heads up play won a hand ball penalty that got things level. And Miguel Tapias rose up to deliver a terrific deflected header to snatch a late win!
Freiburg 0 – 1 Hoffenheim (F)
Hoffenheim crashed Freiburg’s big party in the Dreamstadion. It was particularly painful to give up the game on a 90th minute goal when the Frauen’s backline had done so much to keep the game even until then. Samantha Steuerwald, Marie Muller and Lisa Karl were excellent, but couldn’t do enough to leave with an overdue victory.
Mainz 1 – 1 Freiburg (M)
Late goals are becoming something of a problem for Freiburg. This time Ritsu Doan’s opener could well have sealed the victory, especially when five minutes of added time in the second half came. But, in a bonus 6th minute Mainz got their equalizer against an admittedly spent backline of Ginter, Gulde and Kubler, and sent Freiburg home unhappy. (A draw on the road is enough to keep them clicking along near the top of the table, but it’s another round of “what could have been).
Legon Cities 2 – 0 Aduana Stars
Be still my beating heart, the Royals won a game! And not just any game: a game against league leading Aduana Stars!! Micheal Otou got the brace, including a penalty kick, and got Legon their first win in 6 tries (and only their third win this year out of 12 tries–including one cup match)
Mineros 3 – 6 Alebrijes
This was absolutely one of the wildest games of this or any year. You know it’s a crazy time when there are two goals scored before the announcers can even look at the starting line-ups. Cristian Canozales racked up four goals (and might have gotten more if it wasn’t for a missed offside call). Announcers went so far as to call him the Colombian Mbappe and honestly…they don’t seem wrong.
News & Notes
March Madness Corner
A purple upset only you boys saw coming (from NY Times)
During this month there’s a special additional competition that’s impossible to ignore. Even if you only have time to watch one sporting event, you can’t escape March Madness and College Basketball.
Given that your grandpa was a college hoopster (in the 70s…at a tiny Minnesota school) it’s his favorite time of year, and we pass that on to you gladly. This year, in the time honored tradition, each boy (and momma) picked teams to win: Alex favored Tigers and Knights, Owen picked anyone with purple, and Kristina listened to you both. As a result, you are all doing better than the rest of the family.
Cookie, player of the month in our hearts
International Break upcoming
There will be fewer games than usual next week as most leagues take a break for international team matches. Mostly these are far flung friendlies that we’ll check in on if we’re so inclined, but there’s one special match. The US Men will play Grenada and their leader, our old friend, Regan Charles Cook. Cookie has been solid as an occasional starter and frequent sub in Belgium, so we’ll be hoping he can turn some more heads against the regional heavyweights (even if those regional heavyweights represent us).
An Overdue Addition
For a long time I’ve said that I don’t see why Major League Soccer looks only to Europe and South America for their big players. There are, I’ve reasoned, plenty of great players in Africa and Asia who could do just as well as the players from more traditional soccer nations. For proof, consider Bongokhule Hlongwane…and now his potential partner in Minnesota United’s attack South Korean Jeong Sang-Bin. (You may see his name written in another order, but as Koreans prefer to start with their family name, I’m going to respect that and repeat it here). At just 20 years old, he’s an exciting young addition to Minnesota and should offer a much needed goal scorer (knock on all the wood)
Player of the Week
This is another hard one, Michael Otou lifted Legon Cities out of the relegation scene. Cristian Canozales poured in the goals in one of the wildest games of the year. But we’re going to give it to someone who probably could have won recently, and just leave Michael and Cristian in the overdue camp for future awards. Miller Bolaños seems determined to stand above the pack in goal scoring. Luka Macjen and Juan Mera certainly haven’t made it easy for him, but if he continues to contribute all of the goals that Emelec gets, it will get a lot closer a lot faster than any of us anticipated.
Standings
We’re noticing some pretty stark separation here. Pubjab, Minnesota, and Emelec continue to dominate, but the middle of the table lags far, far behind them. Why? We have no earthly idea, so feel free to leave irrational conjectures in the comments area below!
It seemed for a while like Freiburg would get a draw against one of the legendary teams of Europe in that team’s legendary stadium. But Juve did what has made them a legendary team and found a way to win. Not all hope is lost, if Freiburg wins at home (and doesn’t allow Juve to score) they can advance.
There was some joy in continental competition, as Emelec snagged another spot destined for an Ecuadorian team in the Southamerican version of the Europa league. Miller Bolanos capitalized on one of the best dummy runs you’ll ever see by Samuel Sosa. Bolanos also netted the winner after Cuenca had equalized from the penalty spot. It’s becoming a habit for him.
Grenoble 2 – 1 Annecy (M)
After some underwhelming results, Grenoble got a key victory in the battle between the best sides in the French Alps. Mathias Phaeton made the most of his start up top, finding a way to work free and clear when the ball bounced into the box. Jordy Gaspar pegged an assist and a few crucial bits of defending to help Grenoble top their regional rivals.
Minnesota 1 – 1 NY Red Bulls
Bongokuhle Hlongwane got the Loons first goal in the snowy confines of St Paul, and after New York got even after a pressurized attack at the start of the second half, Minnesota had most of the opportunities to win. But as the score line shows…they didn’t.
Radnicki Nis 2 – 3 Vozdovac
The Dragons love clean sheets. They either take one (usually against the best teams in Serbia) or they enforce one (on pretty much anybody else). This marked only the fifth time in 26 matches this season that both teams scored. Given that they’ve won three, drawn one, and lost one, maybe they could play a little more aggressively and trust that the defense will see them through, especially as Milos Krunic was superb in goal throughout the first half. Mihajlo Neskovic continued his strong form with another goal, and Niska Vujanovic notched one that was drilled so hard he got offered a carpentry job.
Punjab FC 2 – 0 TRAU
It was a triumphant homecoming for Punjab as they finished off the I-League campaign lifting the trophy that they so richly deserved. They did take a little time to trounce their opponents before the party got underway, with (who else) Luka Macjen netting twice (including once from an “I dare you” chip shot) to complete a superb 12 match unbeaten run for the Warriors. (Enjoy the highlights and do stay for the award ceremony celebration)
Freiburg 2 – 1 Hoffenheim (M)
The best of the Black Forest looked to be heading for another underwhelming result in a week full of them, when Ristu Doan slashed a volley on a low cross and snatched a late winner. Freiburg continues to linger on the outer edges of the German title picture, so hopefully whatever happens against Juventus, they’ll be playing meaningful football for the next several months.
Saint Etienne 4 – 0 Grenoble (F)
The ladies of Grenoble struggled against an undefeated Saint Etienne side, as you might expect. Franny Arpine helped solidify the win for the top team in the table with an own goal. The loss drops Grenoble to 10th place in their league, but only 4 points separate them from 6th place…so…who knows.
Berekum Chelsea 1 – 0 Legon Cities
The Royals know…that things are really bleak. Another loss for Legon sees them drop into the relegation zone for Ghana’s Premier League. A year of refocusing may not be the worst thing, but we would sorely miss some of the elite talent that would likely look to leave as soon as the final whistle blows. (Of course there are still 13 matches to go, so things can change, it just doesn’t feel very optimistic around the Royals right now.
SGS Essen 2 – 1 SC Freiburg (F)
Adding to the pessimist punch bowl, the Frauen from Freiburg lost their perfect record against lower table teams when Essen broke out at the start of the second half. Worse there was also an early departure for Hasret Kayicki and general disarray for the attack.
Viking 2 – 0 Rosenborg (M-Cup)
Yes our Norwegian friends are back in action! And they’re also immediately out of it! Truthfully, the fact that Rosenborg’s last round of the Cup came back in June 2022, raises the question of how reliable any of this is. After all, they had time to sign a prolific striker, and sell him between the two rounds.
Emelec v. Tecnico Universitario (M): Postponed
The entire Ecuadorian league was put on a pause this weekend. (See the note below for more information and some total fiction)
Alebrijes 2 – 2 UDG
The first half was pretty tame, but when the skies opened up and rain started to fall in the second, the goals poured in as well (which isn’t too surprising given how poor both team’s defenses have been this season) Alebrijes took the lead, twice. They gave it back, twice. Julio Cruz and Ernesto Reyes got the goals and Octavio Paz (not the poet) gave them back. Still a point is a help for Alebrijes.
News & Notes
More interesting reasons Emelec’s game got cancelled
Choose for yourself the reason why Ecuador’s league was cancelled this week:
The League went on a special Turtle watching expidition in the Galapagos Islands (to learn your boys favorite spanish word: Tortuga!)
A truly terrible round of farts went through every locker room and no one could be near eachother.
The tv broadcasters asked for a rescheduling for undisclosed reasons
Queen Elsa of Arandelle froze every field and the league had to call in the super hot laser blasts of Iron Man to thaw it.
One of those reasons is true (hint: it’s the boring business one), the others should amuse my children. I know which I prefer.
Speaking of TV
For the first time in…well…ever…I watched the Loons on our TV downstairs. This was made possible by the Loons league making a new and stunning deal to put all their games on a computer streaming service rather than regular TV (which your mom and I stopped having). This is a new move in sports TV, while you can get some matches for some leagues in other countries on line (as we sometimes do with Freiburg), this is a big local league wide gamble. If it pays off you boys will probably never know another way of doing it. If not…well…this will be an odd bit of trivia.
Punjab Wins all the Awards
Most movie awards this weekend went to a oddball movie that involved hot-dog fingers, body slams, and googly eyes.
Best Ensemble (From Roundglass Punjab on Twitter)
Most Indian Hero League awards went to Roundglass Punjab, who celebrated their status as the top team in the league with awards for Best Goalie (Kiran Limbu), Best Midfielder (Juan Mera), Best Coach (Staikos Vergetis). And with his two goals Luka Macjen won both the Golden Boot (for most goals scored) and the league MVP (since they’re sponsored by Hero motorcycles, they named the MVP the “League Hero” award…because they’re clever)
It’s hard to settle on a player of the week. While Punjab can rightly lay claim to another trophy, their win was more matter of fact than inspiring. Vozdovac got a great showing from their goalie to keep them in a tightly contested match, but I’m going to give the edge to Ritsu Doan who’s late goal made a huge impact on the mood around Freiburg (despite his goalless drought, he’s been so fundamental to making space for others–and for inspiring in the World Cup that I think he’s overdue for some recognition)
Ritsu Doan in action (from Kyodo Times)
Standings
Rosenborg broke the streak of starting seasons with wins, and in so doing saved Ross County from dropping to the bottom of the table (just six more months until Montana kicks off!). Meanwhile Punjab again claimed the top spot but they won’t be resting on their laurels as the Indian Super Cup will kick off in April with more drama afoot and a chance to see RoundGlass against their future Super League rivals.
Team
W
D
L
PPG
GFA
GAA
Punjab
11
2
1
2.50
2.64
0.79
Emelec
2
0
1
2.00
1.67
1.00
Minnesota
1
1
0
2.00
1.00
0.50
Freiburg
6
3
6
1.40
1.53
1.87
Grenoble
7
4
9
1.25
1.00
1.20
Vozdovac
2
2
3
1.14
0.71
1.71
Legon Cities
2
5
4
1.00
0.82
1.09
Alebrijes
2
4
5
0.91
1.27
1.45
Ross County
2
3
5
0.90
1.10
1.10
Rosenborg
0
0
1
0.00
0.00
1.00
Montana–b
0
0
0
—
—
—
Table Updated 3/15/22 b–Team is between seasons
What’s Next
Thursday, March 16th
Freiburg v. Juventus (M-European Cup–Freiburg trails 1-0)
MacKenzie's Boot Room 