Tag: Punjab FC

Week 21: Time’s Up in (Most of) Europe

Week 21: Time’s Up in (Most of) Europe

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Scores

Vozdovac 0 – 0 Javor

It wasn’t pretty. It wasn’t pleasant. But it did the job. The 0-0 draw kept the Dragons above the line (thanks in no small part to Rad Beograd falling behind and only managing an equalizer in their match–hence the anxious watching at the video’s end.). Vozdovac survived, and will still stand with the SuperLiga come the fall.

Emelec 2 – 0 Tolima [M–Copa Sudamerica]

Starting off the final run of Copa Sudamerica games at home, Emelec was full of optimism. When Tolima again stymied the attacking force through the first half there might have been some nerves. But Sebastian Rodriguez and Dixon Arroyo took charge in the midfield in the second half, creating repeated problems for their opponents. An own goal for the Colombians and a later strike from Joao Rojas put los bombillos on the precipice of the next round of South American action.

Rosenborg 3 – 2 Brann [M]

Kristoffer Zachariassen is special. I mean, he looks like Ted from Schitt’s Creek which is pretty special in the first place, and then he notches a hat trick to lead a comeback win at home. Seriously, this man is quite accomplished and, as the attacking corps still looks to find its feet, he’ll be vital to boosting the Trolls’ chances in the league.

Tolouse 3 – 0 Grenoble [M–Playoffs]

After all the build up, it all came undone for Grenoble. Though Brice Mableu saved an early penalty, Toulouse buried the rebound and cruised the rest of the way. Just wait till next year, and the very real hope that the Alpiners will be set to stake their claim on a top spot.

Rosenborg 2 – 0 Staebek [F]

The most dominant side in MacKenzie Cup 2020 is back in action, with Rosenborg hosting, and besting Staebek. After last year’s undefeated season, there’s reason to hope for the same this time around, and Lisa-Marie Utland started things out well with a great first goal of the campaign, and the whole team looked as fluid and integrated as if they were in mid season form.

Frankfurt 3 – 1 Freiburg [M]

A long shot for Europe got a lot longer when Freiburg ceded a penalty in the second half, and longer still, when they could only manage one goal in response. They were truly dead after Frankfurt’s last two goals won it. (Even though it wasn’t enough for them to jump into Champion’s league places). A solid, but unspectacular middle of the table finish for the Griffins. But the continued strength of Vincenzo Grifo and Christian Gunter plus the emergence of Baptiste Santamaria bodes well for the future.

Tecnico Universario 1 – 0 Emelec [F]

Las Electricas continue to search for their first goal and first win. Soon…it’s destiny.

Mushuc Runa 1 – 2 Emelec [M]

In the middle of their continental adventure, los bombillos made time to face off with the resurgent Runa. Throughout the whole time period, the replacement attack force of Sebastian Rodriguez and Alejandro Cabeza have bolstered the attack and kept them in great shape. It certainly helped that Mushuc Runa ended the match with an ugly clothesline in the box, but Emelec still had to convert

Hoffenheim 4 – 2 Freiburg [F]

Sigh…sorry Freiburg Frauen

Legon Cities FC 2 – 0 Aduana Stars

Legon had all the legs they needed for this pell mell race towards goal. Jonah Attaquye was a huge part of it with the first goal and multiple additional opportunities created to boost Legon with another win. (Sidebar, Thank you StarTimes for commentary…it’s much more fun than me trying to slow mo videos to spy player numbers)

Rosenborg 2 – 3 Molde [M]

Again Kristoffer Zachariassen had a beautiful header, but it was not enough to overcome some extra sloppy defending both at the start and the close of the match. Rosenborg continues to click on the attack..one the back foot…not so much (oh for a return of Tore Reginiussen).

Emelec 1 – 4 Talleres [M–Copa Sudamerica]

Coming in Emelec controlled their destiny. When Talleres took the lead within a quarter of an hour, it started to slip away, and before you knew it the team that had led the group from the first day was on the outside of the knock out round looking in and wondering what went wrong.

News & Notes

You Go Yogi

After saving Ross County from relegation, John Hughes step aside from his position at Ross County. Now the board will look for a new manager to boost the team up the table next year.

Bringing the Frank Pain

The Loons finally finished the transfer for Argentine winger Franco Frangapane (who you might remember from such contests as against Emelec a few weeks ago…but not this week, thankfully). The Loons’ offense has been real bad ineffective, so with him and Frenchman Adrien Hunou there’s hope that the second half of the season is more successful (or at least entertaining) than the first.

Player of the Week

We had hoped there would be some heroics in Belgrade to award, but aside from one critical tackle there just wasn’t much going on. Meanwhile, it’s just to easy to award Kristoffer Zachariassen especially when he Krist-offers so many goals! (Seriously, I’m really enoying watching Schitt’s Creek with your mom and these are almost too easy to write.)

Canadian Hearthrob or Norwegian Attacking Mid…does it matter?

Standings Update

Vozdovac, Grenoble, and the Freiburg men hit the break this week. As we hit the summer there will be several teams taking a break while national team competitions grab the spotlight. We’ll keep updating events as Rosenborg and Emelec try to track down the Grizzlies.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana–b9022.52.10.6
Emelec13461.871.51.1
Rosenborg BK3211.832.51.3
Grenoble Foot-b10781.481.21.1
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Ross County–b8291.371.31.5
Legon Cities FC7571.371.30.8
Freiburg114131.321.61.7
Alebrijes-b4761.121.42.1
FK Vozdovac–b5691.050.91.6
Minnesota United2041.000.81.7
Table Updated —
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, May 26th

Thursday, May 27th

Sandefjord v. Rosenborg [M]

Friday, May 28th

Saturday, May 29th

Rosenborg v. Kolbotn [F]

Real Salt Lake v. Minnesota United

Emelec v. LD Juvenil [F]

Sunday, May 30th

Ashanti Gold v. Legon Cities FC

Rosenborg v. Stabaek[M]

Emelec v. Independiente del Valle [M]

Monday, May 31st

Tuesday, June 1st

57. Equity and Equality

57. Equity and Equality

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When I was a kid (just what every child longs to hear) we heard a lot about equality. Teaches, pastors, and friends on Sesame Street urged me to “Treat everyone equally”. Your grandpa Bruce often got misty thinking of how we were finally “living up to the ideal that all men are created equal.”

They were fine sentiments, but misinformed. The world isn’t equal, nor does it treat everyone equally. What’s more, equality is more of an ideal outcome than a single act. Put it simply: equality sounds good, but often equitability helps you do good. So, a year after I taught you to say “fuck you white supremacy,” let’s take a moment to understand these distinctions with the help of soccer.

Dear Boys,

First, some definitions. Equality is grounded in the idea of sameness. Both of you boys deserve healthy bones and valuable vitamins, so you both get an equal amount of milk at every meal.

Equitability is grounded in the idea of addressing need. Owen doesn’t have the same level of muscle control or patience as Alex. So, while you get an equal share of milk you get an equitable access to cups. (Plain ones for Big A, sloshy/bottle-esque ones for Baby O)

As a teacher, I aim for equality in assigning tasks and assessing performance. I aim for equitability when I provide levels of guidance based on student’s developmental needs and language levels.

The fundamentals of the kitchen table and middle school lesson plans work in global systems of sports, business and culture too.

Let’s make it “WeBelieve”

Sometimes equality is equitable. Women’s soccer is the same game as men’s. The players must train the same muscles, execute the same plays, and use the same equipment as men.

So those of us who watch, talk, and write about the sport should be equitable and provide the Women’s game equality in coverage. That’s certainly my goal, though I feel that I can still improve. But I hope you boys are as excited by Julie Blakstad, Hasret Kayikci, and Claire Howard as you are by Facundo Barcelo, Vincenzo Grifo, and Dayne St Clair.

The entire league system of promotion and relegation is designed to be equal. If you develop and retain talent, you can beat anyone. Then, match by match, step by step you can go from a tiny hamlet to the dominant club in the league. (Modern money might make that highly implausible, it it is still a remote possibility)

That’s the idea at least, but there are many who despair that this model isn’t applied equally across the globe. But this would be where what’s equal isn’t equitable. Each country has its own unique need for the game. Each competition ought to be for itself.

Relegation works where interest in the game is dominant, and supply is wide spread.

Gagnons Les Sommets

In Germany Freiburg has rallied from the third league to be a reliable presence in the top flight. In Serbia, the very real chance of Vozdovac falling down a level provides energy and purpose to fans in a middling season. In France, the thrill of even possible promotion has rallied a community.

These all reflect places where equality works. But they also reflect an enduring love of the game and commitment of community. (Germany and France each hold multiple world titles, and Serbia’s former home of Yugoslavia came close. All three countries routinely produce players on the globe’s top clubs, and their fans are legion)

But that’s not the case for all countries, or even most. So applying one model equally to all countries wouldn’t be equitable.

Take Scotland, a country where the game has faded in recent years. In response, they made a small switch, splitting the league in half so you play your peers when it matters most. So Ross County’s survival didn’t depend on Kilmarnock taking a thrashing from Celtic, but rather on the Staggies taking points from their peers.

What American advocates imagine

Other countries made a bigger change. Neither India, nor the US have relegation, and Mexico hast postponed theirs for five years. Mexico’s choice comes in response to the financial uncertainty around clubs after the pandemic. That uncertainty is multiplied in India and the states. Neither has a long standing pro league. Both have huge countries to navigate and sparse rivalries or travel opportunities for fans.

India and the US are not France and Germany, or even Serbia and Scotland. Forcing these younger leagues to adopt an equivalent process would be foolish and might deter development of players, clubs and ultimately the game.

In time we in the US may be ready for relegation, but now, knowing when to be equitable and when to be equal is vital. (Less vital for an amusing sport than for say the future of public education and the federal government, but still…important…ish).

Both equality and equitability are important, but when you understand how to apply each, you’re in a much better place.

Week 20: Survival and Step Ups

Week 20: Survival and Step Ups

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Scores

Legon Cities 2 – 1 Liberty Professionals

Both sides levvied a barrage of shots but brought the on target drama when it counted most. Liberty took the lead with 10 minutes to go, gave it back on an own goal 5 minutes later and lost it when Jonah Attaquye came through just before the final whistle through the goalie’s legs.

Ross County 2 – 1 Hamilton Academical

With the Accies in a win or else situation, they came out and took the lead on a well placed free kick. As soon as the Staggies had their backs against the wall, they fought to get it back. Jordan White led the charge, notching both assists on clever back passes. With that County gave themselves a fighting chance before the final game on Sunday.

Minnesota United 1 – 0 Vancouver Whitecaps

The wait is over, the Loons have their first points. Much was made of the team’s choice to bench young keeper Dayne St Clair, who had been fine while the offense sputtered. Tyler Miller was equally effective, while the attack (Lod, Reynoso, Dotson, and Abila) finally looked dangerous. So, naturally the coach gave the credit to Miller because correlation equals causation.

Rosenborg 5 – 0 Viking [M]

Trondheims top side looked the part at home in Lerkendal. Markus Henriksen’s early departure after scoring the opening goal seemed ominous. But Carlo Holse’s arrival led to the Dane contributing two assists and Kristoffer Zachariassen ran the show in the center. Half the league has yet to play, but Rosenborg looks well equipped for the season to come.

Freiburg 2 – 2 Bayern Munich [M]

Munich already have their 31st title (9th straight) in hand, but Freiburg held their own regardless. After an ugly foul in the box set up Robert Lewandowski for a record tying penalty (his 40th of the campaign). Mark Flekken has turned up to stake a claim to the goal (and deny Lewandowski a record setter), and Christian Gunter delivered a scintillating run to level the match before time. With one game to go the Griffins remain mathematically (but not really logically) in the hunt for Europe.

Partizan Belgrade 3 – 0 FK Vozdovac

For a little while it looked like the Red Dragons could keep up and get a vital point. But Aleksander Bogdanjovic’s own goal ensured that Vozdovac’s last game would be the decider (the extra goals by Partizan made goals even more important).

WAFA 1 – 0 Legon Cities FC

While Asamoah Gyan finally saw the field for LCFC, it didn’t make a difference. The Royals still haven’t had consecutive points since February, or consecutive wins since January. (Good news, those opponents are coming up in a couple weeks so…fingers crossed)

Grenoble 1 – 0 Rodez [M]

The Alpiners were held in a scoreless draw for most of the match. Long enough to feel Auxerre breathing down their neck and feel the frustration of every scuffed shot. Then a wide cross from Anthony Belmonte missed Marcellin Anani who took a (admittedly exaggerated) tumble. But that set up Jessy Benet for the penalty, the win, and the guaranteed home field for the first round of promotion playoffs.

Emelec 1 – 0 Guayquil City [M]

It took a while but Emelec got what they needed when a late penalty gave Sebastian Rodriguez the winner at home. Emelec now tops Ecuador (though not our little league).

Minnesota United 1 – 0 FC Dallas

It took the Loons even longer to get their winner but flying Fin Robin Lod notched the game’s only goal with a vital poke in stoppage time. The Loons have some polarizing data. First hand accounts report their haplessness. Stats suggest they could be 4-0-2 instead of 2-0-4. At this stage that’s the difference between second and eleventh in the league. One non-stat to bear in mind: Emmanuel Reynoso shoots the ball so hard factory machines who assembled it wince.

Motherwell 1 – 2 Ross County

When Owen woke up the Staggies were taking the pitch. When Alex joined us, doom surrounded us (an early deficit and Kilmarnock leading their match). As I popped cinnamon rolls in the oven, I implored you to say “cmon you Staggies!!”. Moments later Ian Vigurs grabbed the equalizer with one of the most beautiful bits of footwork and placement you’ll ever see to shift the momentum. Michael Gardyne’s winner was a delightful bit of icing on the saved season.

Bodo/Glimt 2 – 2 Rosenborg BK [M]

Facing the title holders had Rosenborg a bit behind the ball. Though they had to come back twice, they did the needful as Carlo Holse notched another goal.

Carneras UPS 2 – 0 Emelec [F]

I’ve said before, I will say again: my kingdom for highlights.

Grenoble 2 – 0 Paris FC [M]

The first of three stages to reach the promised land of Ligue 1 got off to a great start with Marcellin Anani delivering both a solid header and a vicious rebound to grab the lead. From then on in fell to Brice Mableu and his defense (especially Adrien Monfray and Haruna Demba) to stymie the attack. But when they were finally able to launch a counterattack late in the game, the fresh legs of Willy Semedo sped all the way to the box to deliver the clincher.

News & Notes

Royals Rouser

Few things are quite as fun as seeing Legon Cities’ celebration in just coming to the stadium (also, Asamoah Gyan, it’s the nicest bus in Ghana…why are you riding your fancy car just to sit around and watch…?)

Quo Vadis?

That’s latin for “What’s Next” (a favorite phrase around our family). Ross County is now safe, though unfortunately soon to be without the services of some very strong loanee players (looking at you Leo Hjelde of Norway).

But Grenoble marches on to face Toulouse in their second round on Friday. The Alpiners are definite underdogs against the third place side that was so close to automatic qualification. But surprises do happen, and with an awesome hashtag on Grenoble’s account right now, I really hope they continue to happen. (Together we will reach the peaks)

Serbia’s Swan Song

Vozdovac’s season ends this weekend. Their situation is marvelously simple: beat Javor and they stay up. Drop points and they have to hope results go their way.

Freiburg’s Farewell

With one match left in the Bundesliga, the Griffins are still in the hunt for a spot in European competitions. They’d need to beat Frankfurt (themselves fighting for a spot in the Champion’s league). They’d also need Stuttgart, Munchengladbach, and Union Berlin to lose (all of them are playing sides battling for Europe or a place in the league). So there’s plenty to watch for.

Player of the Week

It’s hard to choose between superlative moments and surpassing support, luckily this week’s player of the week was supportive throughout the season’s final stages and had an absolute golden moment on the weekend: Ian Vigurs was every bit the captain you want to see for Ross County and his thunderous shot that saved the Staggies season was an absolute beauty. Thank you Ian Vigurs.

Michael Gardyne is probably congratulating Ian on staying up, but maybe it’s winning this little honor instead.
Photo Credit (The Herald)

Standings Update

Ross County heads into their break on a high while Grenoble has a few more matches to go to determine their league status next campaign. The Loons finally notched some points on the board, but remain stuck at the bottom of the table (for now)

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana–b9022.52.10.6
Emelec11442.01.61.0
Rosenborg BK1201.72.71.0
Grenoble Foot10771.541.31.1
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Freiburg114111.421.61.5
Ross County–b8291.371.31.5
Legon Cities FC6571.281.20.9
Alebrijes-b4761.121.42.1
FK Vozdovac5591.050.91.6
Minnesota United2041.000.81.7
Table Updated 5/19/2021
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, May 19th

Vozdovac v. Javor

Emelec v. Tolima [M–Copa Sudamerica]

Thursday, May 20th

Rosenborg v. Brann

Friday, May 21st

Tolouse v. Grenoble [M–Playoffs]

Saturday, May 22nd

Rosenborg v. Staebek [F]

Frankfurt v. Freiburg [M]

Tecnico Universario v. Emelec [F]

Mushuc Runa v. Emelec [M]

Sunday, May 23rd

Hoffenheim v. Freiburg [F]

Legon Cities FC v. Aduana Stars

Monday, May 24th

Rosenborg v. Molde [M]

Tuesday, May 25th

Emelec v. Talleres [M–Copa Sudamerica]

Week 19: Wait and See

Week 19: Wait and See

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Scores

Tolima 1 – 1 Emelec [Copa Sudamerica]

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

Guayquil City 1 – 0 Emelec [F]

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

Hertha BSC 3 – 0 Freiburg [M]

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

Auxerre 1 – 1 Grenoble [M]

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

Barcelona SC v Emelec [M]

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

Colorado 3 – 2 Minnesota United

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

Vozdovac 4 – 2 Napredak

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

Koln 1 – 4 Freiburg [M]

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

SC Freiburg 3 – 1 SGS Essen [F]

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

Ebusa Dwarfs 0 – 1 Legon Cities

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

Valerenga 1 – 1 Rosenborg [M]

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

Emelec 0 – 0 Macara [F]

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

Red Bull Bragantino 2 – 0 Emelec [Copa Sudamerica]

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

News & Notes

Less Important

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

My Kingdom for Clarity in Liga MX

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

Cruelty in Cape Coast

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

Le fin de saison

M. Hinschenberg en repose

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

Slainte…

Hughes holds the Staggies high

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

Player of the Week

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

Thumbs up indeed Aleksandar

Standings Update

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

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

What’s Next

Wednesday, May 12th

Legon Cities v. Liberty Professionals

Ross County v. Hamilton Academical

Minnesota United v. Vancouver Whitecaps

Thursday, May 13th

Rosenborg v. VIking

Friday, May 14th

Saturday, May 15th

Freiburg v. Bayern Munich [M]

Partizan Belgrade v. FK Vozdovac

WAFA v. Legon Cities FC

Grenoble v. Rodez [M]

Emelec v. Guayquil City [M]

Minnesota United v. FC Dallas

Sunday, May 16th

Motherwell v. Ross County

Bodo/Glimt v. Rosenborg BK [M]

Monday, May 17th

Tuesday, May 18th

Week 18: Bowing Out

Week 18: Bowing Out

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Scores

Novi Pazar 0 – 2 Vozdovac

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

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

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

Emelec 3 – 0 Red Bull Bragantino [Copa Sudamerica]

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

LSV Kvinner v Rosenborg [F]

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

Dundee United 0 – 2 Ross County

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

Legon Cities 0 – 1 Asante Kotoko

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

Minnesota United 0 – 1 Austin FC

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

Orense 2 – 3 Emelec [M]

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

Grenoble 1 – 2 Clermont Foot [M]

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

Mladost Lucani 1 – 0 Vozdovac

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

News & Notes

Last Dance

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

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

Au Revoir, Grenobloises

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

Player of the Week

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

Thank you Pedro

Standings Update

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

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

What’s Next

Wednesday, May 5th

7:30 Tolima v. Emelec [Copa Sudamerica]

Thursday, May 6th

11:30 Hertha BSC v. Freiburg [M]

Friday, May 7th

Saturday, May 8th

1:00 Auxerre v. Grenoble [M]

6:30 Barcelona SC v Emelec [M]

9:00 Colorado v. Minnesota United

Sunday, May 9th

6:30 Koln v. Freiburg [M]

7:00 SC Freiburg v SGS Essen [F]

10:00 Ebusa Dwarfs v. Legon Cities

1:00 Vozdovac v. Napredak

1:00 Valerenga v. Rosenborg [M]

Monday, May 10th

Tuesday, May 11th

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

Week 17: A Rough Road Ahead

Week 17: A Rough Road Ahead

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Scores

Ross County 1 – 3 St Mirren

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

Talleres 1- 2 Emelec [Copa Sudamerica]

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

Troyes 3 – 1 Grenoble [M]

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

Freiburg 1 – 1 Hoffenheim

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

Vozdovac 2 – 1 Cukariki

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

Minnesota United 1 – 2 Real Salt Lake

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

SC Freiburg 0 – 3 Eintracht Frankfurt [F]

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

Legon Cities 1 – 1 Dreams FC

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

Órense v Emelec [M]

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

News & Notes

Dancing Shoes

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

New Contest

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

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

Super League Shut Down

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

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

Player of the Week

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

Standings Update

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

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

What’s Next

Wednesday, April 28th

11:00 Novi Pazar v Vozdovac

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

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

Thursday, April 29th

Friday, April 30th

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

Saturday, May 1st

8:00 LSV Kvinner v Rosenborg [F]

8:00 Dundee United v Ross County

10:00 Legon Cities v Asante Kotoko

7:00 Minnesota United v Austin FC

8:30 Barcelona SC v Emelec [M]

Sunday, May 2nd

7:00 SC Freiburg v Eintracht Frankfurt [F]

Monday, May 3rd

8:00 Grenoble [M] v Clermont Foot

Tuesday, May 4th

Week 16: Best in the Big Sky!

Week 16: Best in the Big Sky!

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Scores

Universidad Catholica 2 – 3 Emelec [M]

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

Leones Negros 1 – 1 Alebrijes

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

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

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

Seattle Sounders 4 – 0 Minnesota United

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

Freiburg 4 – 0 Schalke

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

Dunkerke 1 – 1 Grenoble

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

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

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

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

TBA Guayaquil City v Emelec [F]

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

Wolfsburg 3 – 2 SC Freiburg [F]

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

Medema 2 – 1 Legon Cities

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

TSC Backa Topola 4 – 1 FK Vozdovac

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

Emelec 2 – 0 Técnico Universarito [M]

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

Grenoble 2 – 0 Sochaux [M]

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

Mineros 6 – 0 Alebrijes de Oaxaca

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

News & Notes

Big Sky Superlatives

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

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

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

The Big Dance

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

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

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

Superliga Feminina Forever

As in forever waiting to start.

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

Super League Salvos

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

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

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

Player of the Week

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

Bienvenido a nuestro casa Alejandro

Standings Update

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

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

What’s Next

Wednesday, April 21st

1:45 Ross County v St Mirren

Thursday, April 22nd

2:00 Talleres v Emelec [Copa Sudamerica]

Friday, April 23rd

Saturday, April 24th

8:00 Troyes v Grenoble [M]

8:30 Freiburg v Hoffenheim

10:00 Legon Cities v Dreams FC

1:00 Vozdovac v Cukariki

7:00 Minnesota United v Real Salt Lake

Sunday, April 25th

7:00 SC Freiburg v Eintracht Frankfurt [F]

3:00 Órense v Emelec [M]

Monday, April 26th

Tuesday, April 27th

Week 14 & 15: Spring Break in Play

Week 14 & 15: Spring Break in Play

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

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

Scores

Olmedo 2 – 3 Emelec [M]

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

FK Vozdovac 0 – 0 Macva Sabac

Again…I got nothing.

Sacramento State Hornets 0 – 1 University of Montana Grizzlies

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

Ross County 1 – 3 Inverness CT [Cup]

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

Grenoble 2 – 2 Chateroux [M]

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

Borussia Munchengladbach 2 – 1 Freiburg [M]

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

CS Emelec v. CD Macara [F]

Postponed…again…sigh…

Berekum Chelsea 2 – 1 Legon Cities FC

Samimento (Photo from GoGriz.com)

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

Sacramento State Hornets 0 -3 University of Montana Grizzlies

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

Emelec 2 – 0 CSD Macara [M-Cup]

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

Alebrijes 4 – 1 Jaibos

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

FK Spartak Subotica 3 – 0 FK Vozdovac

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

Arminia Bielefeld 1 – 0 Freiburg [M]

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

University of Montana Grizzlies 2 – 3 Eastern Washington Eagles

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

Kilmarnock 2 – 2 Ross County

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

Vozdovac 1-1 Proleter

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

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

Grenoble 3 – 1 Caen

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

Emelec 1-1 LDU de Quito [M]

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

Legon Cities 2 – 0 Great Olympics

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

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

University of Montana Grizzlies 3 – 1 Eastern Washington Eagles

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

News & Notes

Súper liga Súper late

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

Dragons Dilemma

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

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

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

Loons Launch

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

Players of the Weeks

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

Romario in full flow

Standings Update

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

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

What’s Next

Wednesday, April 14th

3:00 Universidad Catholics v Emelec [M]

5:00 Leones Negros v Alebrijes

Thursday, April 15th

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

Friday, April 16th

8:30 Seattle Sounders v Minnesota United

Saturday, April 17th

8:30 Freiburg v Schalke

10:00 Medema v Legon Cities

1:00 Dunkerke v Grenoble

1:00 TSC Back Topola v FK Vozdovac

[Big Sky Final, if applicable]

TBA Guayaquil City v Emelec [F]

Sunday, April 18th

7:00 Wolfsburg v Sc Freiburg [F]

3:00 Emelec v Técnico Universarito [M]

Monday, April 19th

Tuesday, April 20th

Week 13: We can see Claire-ly Now

Week 13: We can see Claire-ly Now

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

University of Montana Grizzlies 2 – 1 Portland State Vikings

Friday night lights in Big Sky Country showed the Griz continuing their winning streak. While Claire Howard gave up her first goal of the year, Avery Adams scored the first two of her college career to win it.

Celaya 0 – 0 Alebrijes

Not all scoreless draws are the same. In this one Oaxaca withstood a late onslaught after Esteban Torres was sent off in the 84th minute. Still, running the scoreless streak to 210 minutes isn’t making for thrilling football in Mexico’s second tier.

Churchill Brothers 3 – 2 Punjab FC

Punjab’s truncated season came to an end Saturday in Mumbai. While Golukam Kerala ran up their score, Churchill’s late concessions to Joseba Beitia and Baba Diawara solidified the goal difference edge. Not exactly the role Punjab would prefer to play in deciding a title, but a solid first showing for coach Curtis Fleming.

[Bonus reading: our friends at the Away End had a great summation of the end of the campaign]

Guyaquil City v. Emelec [F]

Silly me. If the past year has taught us nothing else, it’s taught us to expect delays especially to start seasons, especially for women. [sigh]

SC Freiburg 1 – 0 Turbine Potsdam [F]

Hasret Kayikci hasn’t been talked up enough this year. She’s always there in Freiburg’s hour of need. Another late goal blunted Potsdam’s momentum and kept the griffins in the hunt for 4th place.

University of Montana Grizzlies 3 – 0 Portland State Vikings

After two more tense affairs, this one was Grizzlies from snout to tail. Another Alexa Coyle banger, a heckuva shot from Allie Larsen and a record setting 30th shutout for Claire Howard!

Dorados 1 – 1 Alebrijes

Alebrijes is getting used to this point a game thing…maybe a little too used to it. With four draws in a row, they’re starting to run out of points to make up. (Hate to think of where they’d be without Julio Cesar Cruz’s clinical penalty taking.)

News & Notes

International Affairs

While most of our teams were not in action, lots of our favorite players were. Here’s a quick peek at how they fared.

Africa
Ethiopia celebrates…not pictured Mombris and Metanire go: “huh”? (CAF Online)
  • Our favorite Madagascar madmen (Jerome Mombris and Romain Metanire) got gobsmacked when their team was bested 4-0 by Ethiopia. By the time that they had to win and see Ethiopia lose to move on. Ethiopia did falter…but Madagascar couldn’t get a goal, and the darlings of the last tournament ran out of luck.
  • Ghana’s Black Stars will be at the cup of nations (as well). Though Center Back Joseph Adjei didn’t play in their final two qualifiers, he continues to take strides towards hitting the field in Cameroon this summer.
  • Harouna Demba of Grenoble was on the bench as Mauritania drew with Morocco but was on the field for their 1-0 win over CAR that booked them a spot in the finals.
Asia
  • Freiburg’s Woo-yeong Jeong got his first run out for South Korea in a friendly against Japan. Sadly, it was a 3-0 drubbing against arch rivals, but it didn’t impact their quest for cups.
Europe
Robin Lod celebrates
  • Finland saw two Minnesota United stars–Jakku Raitala and Robin Lod–(and one former player, Rasmus Schuller) take the field in a pair of draws
  • One of those draws came against Bosnia/Herzegovina and included Ermedin Demirovic of Freiburg as part of the attack that Raitala had to repel in the game’s dying minutes. Demirovic got the start in Bosnia’s friendly against Costa Rica, but didn’t get any goals. The final match against World Champs France happened after I posted this
  • Justas Lasickas of Vozdovac saw lots of action for Lithuania and did his best to put up with the offensive onslaught from Kosovo, Switzerland, and Italy.
  • Andre Hansen had to come on at half-time when Norway was getting spanked by Turkey. He didn’t see action when the team faced Montenegro, which spared him the awkwardness of facing a teammate.
  • The best represented nation from our teams: Montenegro which features three players (Vozdovac’s Milos Milovic and Nikola Vujnovic and Rosenborg’s Dino Islamovic). Sadly none of them made the pitch, until Dino Islamovic came on against Norway in the second half (he didn’t make much impact)
  • Iceland left Rosenborg’s Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson on the bench as they scuffled back down the table
North America
  • Dayne St. Clair was part of Team Canada, but didn’t get on the pitch.
  • Hasani Dotson and Callum Montgomery were part of the US and Canada youth teams vying for an olympic berth. While both played well, neither will have a chance to march in the opening ceremonies in Tokyo.
Limbu Loves it (wefutbolfans.com)
South America
  • Emelec sent three players to the Ecuadorian national side (Keeper Pedro Ortiz, Defender Romario Caicedo, and Midfielder Dixon Arroyo). However, a qualifier with Venezuela was called off, and the friendly tune up with Bolivia only saw Arroyo on the field (he was solid in distribution, if unremarkable in their win)

Limbu lays it on the line

As the I-League ends, it’s worth rewarding the best in the competition. In particular, Kiran Limbu who led the stingiest defense in the competition. Winning best keeper is nice, and should be a first step on the road to winning it all next time round.

Las Electricas are Back

With limited news reporting on South American women’s teams (insert shocked not shocked emoji here). I missed the news that Emelec’s ladies will be back in action. The team will see weekly action through the first weeks of July. If they finish in the top four of the southern league, they’ll advance to the playoffs against one of the top four from the north (likely someone from Quito). The biggest change this means is that we get to appreciate more awesome branding images like this one…

Queen Claire

Player of the Week

You might argue that since she already won a Player of the Week recently, we ought to look elsewhere, but come on…Claire Howard broke a Big Sky conference record and has kept her team perfect through the first five games of the season. (We’ll share a nod with Kiran Limbu for his keeping award as well)

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Standings Update

Not much changed here…most notably, Punjab FC has entered their offseason and will be locked in at their Points Per Game until the 2021-2022 season kicks off in…many many months. Oh, and Claire Howard continues to carry the Grizzlies to the top of our table.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana50032.00.2
Emelec3112.01.81.0
Freiburg8261.61.51.4
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Grenoble Foot6451.471.11.1
Legon Cities FC4431.451.20.8
Ross County5171.231.21.5
Alebrijes3641.151.51.7
FK Vozdovac2350.90.71.6
Rosenborg BK000–––
Minnesota United000–––
Table Updated 3/31/2021
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, March 31st

Thursday, April 1st

Friday, April 2nd

10:00 FK Vozdovac v. Macva Sabac

5:00 Sacramento State Hornets v. University of Montana Grizzlies

Saturday, April 3rd

9:00 Madema SC v. Legon Cities FC

9:00 Ross County v. Inverness CT [Cup]

1:00 Grenoble v. Chateroux

1:30 Borussia Munchengladbach v. Freiburg [M]

CS Emelec v. CD Macara [F]

Sunday, April 4th

2:00 Sacramento State Hornets v. University of Montana Grizzlies

3:00 Olmedo v. Emelec [M]

Monday, April 5th

Tuesday, April 6th

5:15 Emelec v. CSD Macara [M-Cup]

9:00 Alebrijes v Jaibos

Week 12: A goal here, a goal there

Week 12: A goal here, a goal there

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Werder Bremen 2 – 1 SC Freiburg [F]

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

Atlante 1 – 1 Alebrijes

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

Berekum Chelsea v. Legon Cities

See update on Ghana below.

St. Johnstone 1 – 0 Ross County

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

Paris FC 2 – 0 Grenoble [M]

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

Radnicki Nis 0 – 1 Vozdovac

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

Punjab FC 1 – 0 Real Kashmir

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

Freiburg 2 – 0 Augsburg [M]

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

Emelec 0 – 1 Nueve de Octubre [M]

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

Alebrijes 0 – 0 Cancun FC

And that happened.

News & Notes

Norway’s No-Way til May

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

Ghana’s Gone Fishin

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

Scotland’s Split

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

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

Hansen heads out of Houston (KSTP)

Loon’s Wings

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

International Affairs

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

Player of the Week

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

Gunter-fan art from Facebook

Standings Update

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

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

What’s Next

Wednesday, March 24th

Thursday, March 25th

Friday, March 26th

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

8:00 Celaya v. Alebrijes

Saturday, March 27th

6:30 Churchill Brothers v. Punjab FC

Sunday, March 28th

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

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

Monday, March 29th

Tuesday, March 30th

10:00 Dorados v. Alebrijes