Tag: Moussa Kailou Djitte

Week 27: Reliable are the Ladies!

Week 27: Reliable are the Ladies!

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Rosenborg BK 0 – 0 FK Haugesund [M]

To be fair, this game might have been a little dull, but it probably didn’t help that the women’s team was kicking off an hour later less than a block away. The guys were probably distracted.

Rosenborg BK 2 – 1 Klepp [F]

A late equalizer from Klepp nearly undid the Rosenborg winning streak and unravelled the home side’s dominance. But, cometh the hour, cometh the Utland, and Lisa-Marie (making a rare substitution appearance) netted the winner just moments later

CS Emelec 3 – 1 Carneras UPS [F]

Kerlly Corozo hit the back of the net twice on both a rebound and a header for an opportunistic brace that also gave Las Electricas a vital come from behind win. More of this please!

Minnesota United 2 – 2 San Jose Earthquakes

This was it, our first live sports outing since the fall of 2019. Your mom did not like the crowds, and I really only felt comfortable once I was seated and savoring the match. But it truly felt great to be surrounded by other people, screaming, shouting and singing when Brent Kallman scored from his impossible angle. (I also left very impressed with the dynamic Niko Hansen, stalwart Michael Boxall, and endlessly inventive Bebelo. We left before the Loons went ahead (and long before they were thwarted with a draw), but it was all worth it.

Legon Cities FC 1 – 1 Bechem United

Again the Royals attack gave their opposing goalie a chance to shine. Jonah Attaquye’s opener set the tone, but not the standard with a flurry of chances again going lacking. A late kerfuffle resulted in captain Michael Empedu being shown a red card for…uh…being animated? We’ll have to wait to see how his absence affects the end of the campaign.

Odd 2 – 2 Rosenborg BK [M]

In a not remotely shocking turn of events, Kristoffer Zachariassen was named man of the match and notched a goal in his return to the midfield. (It seems as though Alexander Tetty pushes the build up into the middle of the field but the Rosenborg strengths are in finishing wide crosses…so something’s gotta give.) A late equalizer keeps the boys’ winless spiral a spinning with top 4 side Kristiansund and an attempt to get into European competitions next on the docket.

Valerenga 1 – 2 Rosenborg BK [F]

This one was sweet. Having gone unbeaten last year but still losing the title on goal difference to Oslo’s Valerenga, this time the Trolljenta topped another great team and boosted themselves into sole possession of first place with their 7th straight win. It wasn’t easy, in fact it took a pair of late goals and a stunning Rugile Rulyte penalty save to save them from their first defeat since becoming part of the RBK family. But those late goals weren’t just redemptive, they were the last step to dominance.

News & Notes

Happy Times for Hasani

I mean c’mon, this is awesome.

New Staggie Squadies

With the Scottish Cup set to kick off this week, Ross County has done a little more work in replacing some of the long standing fixtures of the side. So it’s tioriadh to Gardyne, Vigurs, and Draper; Halo to Ross Callachan, Dominic Samuel, Jake Vokins and Alexander Robertson. Callachan and Samuel have multi-year deals so here’s hoping that they provide what the forerunners did. Meanwhile Vokins and Robertson have headed north on loan deals from Premier League clubs Southhampton and Manchester City….yes…League Champion, global legend coach Pep Guardiola…Man City…it’s probably a bit early to be banking on the young men to dominate all of Scotland, but we’re here for it.

Djitte’s New Dude (photo from Insider)

A Non-McConaughey reason to cheer for Austin FC

Look, we get it, Academy Award winner/bongo music enthusiast Matthew McConaughey is a bit of an attraction for the more indifferent soccer fans in the weirdest city in Texas. But, just a week after leaving Minnesota for the last time this season, the green and black of Austin announced the signing of Grenoble attacker and one of our local favorites Moussa Kailou Djitte. It has not been established if McConaughey himself spoke to Djitte, but we hope that Moussa greets him with “d’accord…d’accord…d’accord…” (ahh…weird French translations of meme’d McConaughey lines).

Player of the Week

Much as the softies in us want to give it to Hasani Dotson for proposing, you can’t deny a vital brace from veteran striker Kerlly Corozo to boost Emelec’s chances by beating the second place team in their division.

We salute you Kerlly!

Standings Update

It is a log jam in the middle of the table with Legon, Freiburg, Ross County, and Minnesota separated by 2 hundreths of a point per game (and in some cases, only by goal difference). The Staggies will kick off again soon while the Royals are about to draw the curtain on this campaign, while we’re officially half way through the year there’s still a lot to play for.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana–b9022.52.10.6
Rosenborg BK11442.02.01.0
Emelec16681.81.51.2
Grenoble Foot-b10781.481.21.1
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Legon Cities10681.381.20.9
Freiburg–b124131.381.71.6
Ross County8291.371.31.5
Minnesota United4341.361.11.3
Alebrijes-b4761.121.42.1
FK Vozdovac–b5691.050.91.6
Table Updated 7/7/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, July 7th

Colorado v. Minnesota United

Thursday, July 8th

Friday, July 9th

Saturday, July 10th

Forfar Athletic v. Ross County [Cup]

Lyn Fotball v. Rosenborg BK [F]

Rosenborg BK v. Kristiansund [M]

CS Emelec v. Tecnico Universtario [F]

Sunday, July 11th

Elmina Sharks v. Legon Cities FC

Monday, July 12th

Tuesday, July 13th

Week 9: Super Showing

Week 9: Super Showing

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Legon Cities 2 – 0 Elmina Sharks

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

Alebrijes 2 – 2 Correcaminos

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

St. Mirren 1 – 0 Ross County

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

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

Zlatibor 0 – 0 Vozdovac

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

Grenoble 1 – 1 Niort [M]

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

Aucas 2 – 3 Emelec [M]

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

Leverkusen 1 – 2 Freiburg [M]

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

Neroca FC 0 – 1 Punjab FC

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

https://youtu.be/rBIc3uipY48

Le Havre 0 – 2 Grenoble Foot 38 [M]

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

News & Notes

Here Come the Ladies

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

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

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

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

Baby Blues are Back

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

Player of the Week

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

Standings Update

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

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

What’s Next

Wednesday, March 3rd

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

7:00 Vozdovac v. Backa Backa Palanka

9:00 Cimarrones v. Alebrijes

Thursday, March 4th

Friday, March 5th

Saturday, March 6th

8:30 Freiburg v. RB Leipzig [M]

9:00 Eleven Wonders v. Legon Cities

9:00 Ross County v. Kilmarnock

7:00 Emelec v. Delfin [M]

Sunday, March 7th

7:00 SC Freiburg v. Bayern Munich

8:00 FK Metalac v. Vozdovac

1:00 Grizzlies v. Montana State Billings Yellow Jackets

Monday, March 8th

Tuesday, March 9th

Le Havre v. Grenoble Foot 38 [M]

Week 8: Thrillers and Thuds

Week 8: Thrillers and Thuds

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Vojvodina 2 – 0 FK Vozdovac

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

Real Kashmir 1 – 1 Punjab FC

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

https://youtu.be/pBUnfDON7Ok

Freiburg 0 – 1 Union Berlin [M]

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

Nancy 1 – 2 Grenoble [M]

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

Atletico Morelia 6 – 3 Alebrijes

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

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

Bechum United 1 – 1 Legon Cities

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

Ross County 1 – 0 Celtic

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

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

Emelec 4 – 1 Deportiva Cuenca

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

FK Vozdovac 0 – 1 Rad Beograd

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

News & Notes

Bowling > Soccer

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

Your Hero/Reading Icon

Player of the Week

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

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

Standings Update

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

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

What’s Next

Wednesday, February 24th

Legon Cities v. Elmina Sharks

Alebrijes v. Correcaminos

Thursday, February 25th

Friday, February 26th

Saturday, February 27th

St. Mirren v. Ross County

Zlatibor v. Vozdovac

Grenoble v. Niort [M]

Aucas v. Emelec [M]

Sunday, February 28th

Leverkusen v. Freiburg

Monday, March 1st

Neroca FC v. Punjab FC

Tuesday, March 2nd

Le Havre v. Grenoble Foot 38 [M]

Week 51: Out With a Whimper

Week 51: Out With a Whimper

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Niort 0 – 0 Grenoble [M]

Despite Grenoble dominating the possession, the shots, the passing, and all the attempts, Grenoble couldn’t find a way through. To be fair, it was a second string side (Bennet, Diallo and Djite, came on with about 30 minutes left) and they still did quite well to dominate a top half of the table team and pick up a point on the road.

Javor 3 – 1 FK Vozdovac

A third minute penalty was a pretty clear signal that it would be a rough day for the Vozdovac defence. Despite Marko Putincanin’s late first half equalizer, two more cases of sloppy defense undid the Dragons and saw them slip to 9th place. (4 points from their past 18 possible is a sign of the struggles)

Schalke 04 0 – 2 Freiburg [M]

There’s a whole book to be written about Schalke’s fall. Flush with Russian oil money, they’ve slowly collapsed like a bridge made out of flan. But that’s someone else’s job, our job is just to say: BRAVO ROLLAND SALLAI! Two quality goals in the second half gave the Griffins a much needed second win in a row, so things are trending up just when they are most needed.

Livingston 2 – 0 Ross County

Welp. There goes the plan to focus on the cups.

Deportiva Cuenca 2 – 1 Emelec [M]

This was a hard one. Despite being a man up for almost an hour, Emelec could not find a way through Cuenca’s defense. Diego Dorregaray managed to get two goals against the run of play including a 90th minute winner to undo Jose Cevallos’ late equalizer. The result, plus rival Barcelona’s win at the same time makes for a very challenging final match on Sunday. Emelec would need to win against Olmedo and Barcelona would have to lose to Universidad Catholica, PLUS they would need a 6 goal swing to take it (so Emelec winning 3-0 while Barcelona loses 0-3).

Sochaux 1 – 1 Grenoble [M]

Jessy Bennet again ran the show for Grenoble and set up another Moussa Djitte goal. Unfortunately, Grenoble couldn’t capitalize on a Souchaux red card and ended up ceding an equalizer before half time.

Legon Cities FC 1 – 2 Cape Coast *Mystic* Dwarfs

An early Benjamin Acquah brace was enough for Cape Coast and their Dungeons & Dragons avatar/team name. Good news: the Royals scored for the first time in 450 minutes. Bad news: it was another penalty, so in addition to Asamoah Gyan staying goalless, the team has yet to score in regular play all season.

Ross County 0 – 2 Hamilton Academical

Welp. So much for being able to focus on the league.

Bayer Leverkusen 2 – 1 SC Freiburg [W]

Despite Stefanie Sanders’ second half equalizer, Freiburg couldn’t snatch a point in Bavaria.

Freiburg 4 – 1 Hertha Berlin [M]

Meanwhile the gentlemen Griffins continued their winning ways with Vincenzo Grifo notching a goal and another assist. The result came at the expense of former Freiburg stopper Alexander Schwolow who’s done about as well as frequently fallible Florian Muller.

CS Emelec 4 – 1 Olmedo [M]

Los bombillos did their best to inject some drama in the final match of Ecuador’s season. Jose Cevallos 40 minute hat trick gave them a great start towards closing the gap against Barcelona. But as their rivals played out a goalless draw, Emelec settled in to a strong second place.

Sandefjord 0 – 0 Rosenborg [M]

In the final match of the season, Rosenborg was…uh….there? Goalless draws are never terribly noteworthy, and this one, away from home, without retiring captain Tor Reginusen, to seal a respectable but not shattering fourth place finish, was particularly inert.

Grenoble 2 – 0 Troyes [M]

When Troyes lost a man to a red card in the second half, Owen was crying bloody murder and Alex was doing anything but resting. 30 minutes later, Mamadou Dialo and Jessy Benet had both delivered goals for a great win over their top of the table rivals. At the break, Grenoble sits atop of the league on goal difference.

News & Notes

Buh-Bye Hot Boy

Kevin Molino, Minnesota United’s first big name signing announced his plan to leave the team. This might be the biggest surprise of the Loons’ Off-Season so far. Molino was a long-standing favorite of coach Adrian Heath, and he earned the fans respect too for working hard in any role he landed in. With cuts in cost across the board and a sizable offer from Minnesota, a lot of folks are wondering where he could be heading. (I know he’d be a savior in Oaxaca, but think he’d have more fun along side Yoric Ravet and Jessy Bennet in Grenoble)

Tusen Takk Tor

Rosenborg captain Tor Reginusen has retired before the end of the season walking out on his own terms and with gratitude for the club. The veteran defender was still earning caps with Norway’s national team in November,but its nice to see him exit with grace.

Slainte Stuart and Hullo Hughes

Two decisive defeats in a week was two too many for Stuart Kettlewell. After six months as solo coach, and three years as at least co-manager, the long standing Staggies man stepped aside after the loss to Aberdeen. Clearly the club wanted him to succeed (he’d done wonders with the youth team before joining the first team), but to stay afloat in Scotland it’ll take something more than he’s mustered.

County will hope that something can be unlocked by John Hughes former manager of their highland rivals, Inverdonian Caley Thistle. Hughes has led a few rescue missions for teams facing the axe, and a few cup triumphs. But he has also led some botched rescues. Here’s hoping for the best.

Player of the Week

It’s a close call between two very strong midfield mavens. With a pair of big wins and more big goals I will tip the cap to Vincenzo Grifo with his goal and assists, but note again that Jessy Benet may have been the biggest difference between Grenoble being top of League 2 or top of League 3 right now. Of course, Grifo is the difference between a comfortable Freiburg season

What’s Next

Wednesday, December 23rd

12:00 Celtic v. Ross County

1:45 VfB Stuttgart v. Freiburg [M]

Thursday, December 24th

Friday, December 25th

Saturday, December 26th

9:00 Ross County v. St. Mirren

Elves v. Reindeer [North Pole Classico]

Sunday, December 27th

Monday, December 28th

Tuesday, December 29th

Week 46: Barcelo Blasts and Rosenborg Wrinkles

Week 46: Barcelo Blasts and Rosenborg Wrinkles

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

LDU Portoviejo 0 – 6 CS Emelec

Already up 3-0 at half time a red card to Portoviejo’s Ayrton Cisneros gave Emelec all they needed to dominate the bottom team in Ecuador. Still Facundo Barcelo’s four goals, including two within two minutes may finally light up Los Bombillos attack

Cancun FC 0 – 2 Alebrijes

In a stunner, Oaxaca topped a top 4 side in the league (courtesy of Franco Arizala’s penalty following a rather suspect hand ball penalty and a deceptively fast free kick). The win gave them hope of not finishing at the bottom of the league, before the season finale on Tuesday.

LSK 1 – 0 Rosenborg [F-Cup]

Yup Rosenborg’s Women’s team lost a match for the first time in 2020. The league streak and chance for a title still hangs in the balance on their last match…whenever it may be…

St Ettiene 3 – 2 Grenoble

Mousa Kaillou Djite’s pair of goals put Grenoble in a great position. But uncharacteristic lapses from keeper Brice Mableu lost the edge on a crushing 90th minute winner.

Ross County 3 – 0 Sterling Albion [Cup]

Yup Ollie Shaw scored again, County won again. With the league slipping away, the Staggies are looking to focus on the Cup, but with most lower league sides about to bow out and the best teams yet to arrive on the scene, I’m not sure how long the run can go on.

SC Barcelona 2 – 1 CS Emelec [F]

The second leg of the playoff started well for las eléctricas. Luisa Espinoza scored again giving them both the lead and an invaluable away goal. Though they gave up an equalizer, there were plenty of reasons to hope…until…defender and team captain Bowen conceded a penalty, received a red card, and watched helplessly as the yellow rivals won it from the spot. It’s a bitter end note to the 2020 season. Here’s hoping for more next year.

Legon Cities 1 – 1 Berekum Chelsea

The Royals started on the back foot, as the did so often last season. But a Jonah Attaquye penalty and a strong defensive showing sealed a draw. (A particularly valuable draw as 7 of 9 matches ended in draws.

Klepp v. Rosenborg BK [F]

The second wave of COVID in Europe wiped out most final matches in Norway’s women’s league. no word yet on make up date, but at least the team got a fun flight out of it…?

SGS Essen 0 – 0 SC Freiburg [F]

Despite a late red card for Essen, Freiburg couldn’t notch a win.

Emelec 1 – 1 Técnico Universitario [M]

Facundo Barcelo continued his hot streak with a penalty equalizer to keep the Guayaquil blues firmly in the tables top half as the second stage reaches its midpoint.

Alebrijes 2 – 4 Cimarrones

With Franco Arizala putting them up 2 after the half, Oaxaca could be excused for getting a little confident. Giving up 4 in ten minutes at home?!?! Why?!?

News & Notes

Cartoon Equity

The Instagram feed for Trondheim based artist @Perolavik features some deep cuts of Norwegian politics and homages to influential figures from RBK’s storied past. This week they got around to noting RBK’s bright future with caricatures of Trolljenta’s top stars.

COVID Spikes Start Cancellations Again

As the weather turns and people retreat indoors, the long awaited “second wave” of COVID-19 has begun. (To which Americans scoff and say, psssh! It’s our third wave! USA! USA! USA!)

France has cancelled all lower level women’s leagues until January. And, despite having a lower infection rate than much of the world, Norway postponed the “gold matches” to decide their end of year champions. As yet, the men’s game has only delayed international contests, but time will tell what comes next.

Meanwhile America celebrated positive signs from a new vaccine with record highs in positive cases, hospitalizations, and petulant grandstanding to risk public health. USA! USA!

Player of the Week

Facundo Barcelo’s five goals for four points in Two games is pretty flipping stellar if I say so myself. And as I write this, I do.

What’s Next

Wednesday, November 18th

LDU Quito v. CS Emelec

Thursday, November 19th

Friday, November 20th

Great Olympics v. Legon Cities FC

Saturday, November 21st

9:00 Kilmarnock v. Ross County

12:00 Pau v. Grenoble

1:00 FK Vozdovac v. Novi Pazar

Sunday, November 22nd

7:00 SC Freiburg v. TSG 1899 Hoffenheim [F]

8:30 Freiburg v. Mainz [M]

Emelec v. Delfin

Minnesota United v. Colorado Rapids

Monday, November 23rd

Tuesday, November 24th

Grenoble v. Nancy [M]

Rosenborg v. Brann [M]

Weeks 35 AND 36: Teaching and Writing are Uncomfortable Bedfellows

Weeks 35 AND 36: Teaching and Writing are Uncomfortable Bedfellows

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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 (W)

Rosenborg BK 4 – 2 Breidablik (M-E)

Rosenborg BK 1 – 1 Arna Bjornar (W)

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.

*Sniff* Good Luck Robin!

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

Monday, September 14th

Tuesday, September 15th

Week 9-10: Speed Round

Week 9-10: Speed Round

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Scores (Plus Recaps Kinda)

Aberdeen 1 v Ross County 2

Motherwell 4 v Ross County 1

Ross County 0 v Rangers 1

Every time the Staggies start to establish some security they slide back to the bottom. Despite a great run of form by Northern Ireland’s Billy McKay, a pair of predictable defeats undid the miraculous win in Aberdeen

Golukam FC 1 – Punjab FC 1

Indian Arrows 1 – Punjab FC 1

Neroca FC 4 – Punjab FC 3

A poor run of late from the men of Minerva means they’ve slipped to third despite Asier Dipanda’s one man efforts to save the day.

(M) Grenoble Foot 0 – Chateroux 1

(W) Grenoble Foot 0 – Nice 0

(M) Caen 2 – Grenoble Foot 0

(W) Thomson Évian 1 – Grenoble Foot 0

(M) Grenoble Foot 1 – Valenciennes 3

Unfortunately, the ladies of the alps continue to suffer near miss after near miss, and may need to rely on goal difference to avoid the drop. Meanwhile, Shockingly, Grenoble struggled to score and to shut down opponents. (Did I shockingly, I meant predictably) Most exposed: left side defenders Loic Nestor and Jerome Mombis who have been about as useful as as a megaphone for a mime.

(M) SC Freiburg 0 – Fortuna Düsseldorf 2

(M) Borussia Dortmund 1 – SC Freiburg 0

(W) SC Freiburg 2 – MSV Duisburg 2

(M) SC Freiburg 3 – Union Berlin 1

(W) Hoffenheim 4 – SC Freiburg 1

Maddeningly inconsistent, Freiburg’s men remain close but not close enough to qualification for Europe. Meanwhile the women’s fortunes have faded with the inability to get WunderMadchen Klara Bühl integrated in the attack, leaving them safe but far from competitive with the imperious Wolfsburg.

https://youtu.be/4fMEY9C6TP4

Cukariki 2 – FK Vozdovac 1

FK Vozdovac 1 – Vojvodina 2

Indjija 3 – FK Vozdovac 0

Easily the worst run of form of any team we cover, the red dragons are winless in 2020. Worst they’re sliding ever closer to relegation just in time to face local super club Partizan Belgrade

King Faisal 1 – Legon Cities FC 1

Legon Cities 0 – Eleven Wonders 0

Legon Cities 4 – WAFA 1

Berekum Chelsea 2 – Legon Cities 0

The good news: The Royals got their second win of the season! The bad news: they remain just 5 points clear of relegation and face a long season ahead where no number of Hip-Life Half times can make up for a lackluster team.

https://youtu.be/xjz5a6Z5Rto

(M) Emelec 2 – Blooming 0 (Copa Sudamericana)

(M) Emelec 1 – Guayaquil City 2

(M) CSD Macara 1 – Emelec 0

(M) Emelec 4 – Aucas 0

While their goal difference would place them 4th, Emelec’s results have them in 10th. It’s worth wondering if the division of attention between the league and the Copa has them dealing with a bit of a hangover in domestic competition.

Jaibos 1 – Alebrijes de Oaxaca 1

Alebrijes de Oaxaca 0 – Correcaminos 0

Cafetaleros 4 – Alebrijes de Oaxaca 1

February was full of heartbreak for Oaxaca who came up winless and could only manage 2 points from a pair of games against sides fighting relegation. Maybe they’re helpless without an in form Daniel Jimenez. Maybe they’re coasting on their apertura title waiting for a promotion playoff to turn it on. But it may be hard to get up for the big game when you’ve been sleepwalking for a month.

Portland Timbers 1 – Minnesota United 3

San Jose Earthquakes 2 – Minnesota United 5

Our local Loons are flying high to start their campaign. Winning twice on the road in convincing fashion to top the table. The wings have helped keep the attack aloft as killer crosses from Ethan Findlay and Kevin Molino have set up new striker Luis Amarilla twice and even put reigning defender of the year Ike Opara in a goal scoring mood.

News & Notes

I have no idea…I’m burnt out

I’ll do better in future

What’s Next

Wednesday, March 11

Thursday, March 12

9:45 Alebrijes v Atlante

Friday, March 13

2:00–(M) Orleans v Grenoble

Saturday, March 14

8:30–(M) RB Leipzig v Freiburg

9:00–Ross County v Hamilton

9:00–FK Vazdovac v Partizan Belgrade

2:00–Legon Cities FC v Medeama SC

???–(W) Emelec v Guayaquil City

Sunday March 15

3:30 AM–Punjab FC v Aizawl

3:30 (M) Universidad Catholica v Emelec

6:00–New York Red Bull v Minnesota United

Monday March 16

Week 8 Recap: From the Boot Room With Love

Week 8 Recap: From the Boot Room With Love

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Scores and Recaps

Hibernian 3 v. Ross County 0

The Staggies’ poor road form continued in a total dismantling at Easter Road in Edinburgh.

East Bengal Club 1 – Punjab FC 1

The comeback draw was good for team spirits, but more dropped points means that Mohun Bagan’s lead is still 9 points

(M) Grenoble Foot 38 3 – Niort 1

Grenoble scored! Early! And then…often!!! The decider, scored on a late and smug chip from Moussa Kailou Djitte might make Niort fans seethe, but the breathing room is appreciated.

(M) Augsburg 1 – SC Freiburg 1

A late strike helped Freiburg get a valuable road point in the battle to stay close for European spots

Ross County 1 – St. Johnstone 1

A late strike helped Ross County salvage a draw at home. Given the Staggies’ abysmal road results, every point matters to their chances of staying up in the premiership.

Mladost Lucani 2 – FK Vozdovac 1

Serbia’s SuperLiga is back after a lengthy winter break (to be fair, Belgrade in January isn’t exactly a holiday makers dream). The rust was apparent when a clumsy Vazdovac challenge gifted the hosts a penalty and a crucial edge they wouldn’t surrender.

Legon Cities FC 1 – Great Olympics 1

If twitter feeds are anything to judge by, this will be the most meaningful derby for the Royals. A contentious first match with penalty appeals and chippy defense will only entrench the enmity.

(M) Orense 2 – Emelec 2

A late strike started Emelec’s 2020 campaign on solid footing. Despite conceding twice, Los Bombistas fought back to get a valuable point against the newly promoted Orense.

Zacatepec 1 – Alebrijes de Oaxaca 0

Give up a penalty in the first minute and things might seem grim. But a tremendous save by Jose Canales kept the score level….for a while. Zapetec took the lead about 20 minutes later, and even when a red card left the hosts a man down, Oaxaca couldn’t capitalize

Punjab FC 1 – Real Kashmir 0

Asier Dipanda remains one of the great difference makers around the world. Here again, without him, the Warriors may have ended up with a goalless tie. With him the keep their advantage in second place.

(W) SC Sand 0 – SC Freiburg 2

The Bundesliga returned for women this weekend and with it Freiburg phenom Karla Bühl who, at 19, followed up her World Cup coming out party with 8 goals so far (a third of Freiburg’s total)

News & Notes

Rosenborg BK Announces Women’s Team

Norway’s legacy of greatness in the women’s game is without doubt. But the most decorated club in the country hasn’t been much involved…until now.

Kvinnelager!

Rosenborg’s new women’s team is still in the planning stages, but the promise of Toppserien seasons is a blessing. (It’s currently unclear whether existing local women’s side Trondheim Ørn would join the club or be a ready made rival).

What’s Next

Wednesday, February 19

Thursday, February 20

4:15–Emelec v Blooming (Copa Sudamericana 2nd Leg)

Friday, February 21

1:00–(M) Grenoble v Châteauroux

Saturday, February 22

8:30–(M) Freiburg v Fortuna Düsseldorf

9:00–Aberdeen v Ross County

10:00–FK Vazdovac v FK Spartan Subotica

Sunday February 23

7:00–(W) SC Freiburg v MSV Duisburg

3:30 (M) Emelec v Guyaquil City

7:00–Jaibos v Alebrijes de Oaxaca

Monday February 24