Tag: Rosenborg BK

Week 35: Before the Break

Week 35: Before the Break

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Results & Recaps

Rosenborg 1 – 3 Rennes [M-Europe]

The last glimmers of Rosenborg’s quest for Europe vanished with their loss at home to the French side. Both the men and women faltered in the past two weeks, but both came closer than any other European side.

Cal Poly Mustangs 2 – 1 Montana Grizzlies

The Griz got their first lead of the season on Sydney Haustein’s first goal (a banger too). But a late defensive miscue led to their third loss of the season (more defeats than the entirety of the spring campaign)

Hoffenheim 2 – 1 Freiburg [F]

Hasret Kayicki got Freiburg off the mark quickly and on top of the league for 11 glorious minutes. Then the second half started with a Hoffenheim equalizer and hope faded fast.

Stuttgart 2 – 3 Freiburg [M]

Woo-Yong Jeong racked up a brace within 10 minutes to send Freiburg flying past former goalie Florian Muller. Fellow striker Carlo Holse made it three before the trouble started. Stuttgart made a good comeback before the first half ended but Freiburg shut the door in the second half to grab the win.

Sochaux 1 – 0 Grenoble [M]

Grenoble got a win last week but slid right back to losing ways this week. Loic Nestor and Adrien Monfry did well to frustrate Sochaux’s attack…but couldn’t beat back the tide.

Houston 1 – 2 Minnesota United

Adrien Honou found his scoring boots and not a moment to soon as an injury ravaged Loons team got a valuable win to end their dry spell. He didn’t knock in any beauties, but he did what needed to be done with the strong service from Ethan Finlay that made it all possible.

[Rosenborg 0 – 3 Barcelona–F Friendly]

This won’t count in our standings as a victory would have been meaningless, but it’s worth noting that this was the first time one of our teams faced one of the game’s 12 behemoths…it didn’t go well, but now RBK can reset and build up to this level.

Emelec 4 – 0 Olmedo [M]

Beating up on the bottom side put Emelec in first place for the moment, closer to claiming the league title outright. Though with 9 games to go, it’s too early to pop champagne corks in Guayaquil. Joao Rojas remains on fire, as the offense shows no sign of slowing down [they’ve scored two in 5 of the 6 games since the start of phase 2]. Emelec’s performance was about as superlative as it’s possible to be…just enjoy the highlights.

Aberdeen 1 – 1 Ross County

Regan Charles Cook hasn’t gotten his name on here nearly often enough (spotty playing time and teammates’ inconsistent finishing on his key passes hasn’t helped). A solid goal following up on a gilded opportunity gave County hope, but he was unable to haul the staggies over the line. But, frankly, we’re ok with that. (Former Minnesota United player Christian Ramirez struck the equalizer in his enthusiastic door busting style. So this is a time when everybody wins even when no one does)

Viking 2 – 1 Rosenborg [M]

Young midfielder Olaus Jaír Skansen gave a strong showing in the new transfer’s first real runout with Rosenborg. Being tasked with providing the replacement creativity for man crush Cristopher Zachariassen isn’t easy, but he showed good promise… fellow midfield newcomer Pavle Vagic…not so much.

UDG 1 – 1 Alebrijes

So…flipping…close!!!

Oaxaca had a man advantage. They got the lead from Lizandro Echeverria’s solid header with just six minutes to play….and yet…

An 88th minute hand ball from (I think) Adrian Vasquez gave the black lions a valuable penalty that turned into the equalizer and left Alebrijes on 3 points in five matches. [Insert heavy sigh]

Montana Grizzlies 4 – 0 Montana State University-Billings Yellow Jackets

The Griz got their first win of the fall. Yes, it came against a lower Division side. No, it doesn’t outweigh the frustrating narrow losses to tougher opponents. But a Jaden Griggs hat trick, and the defense’s first clean sheet, did the job. So let’s root for positive momentum heading in to next week.

FK Vozdovac 2 – 0 Kolubara

The Red Dragons got a few extra days off and delivered a win over the newly promoted Kolubara to push them into a three game winning streak. The newly promoted Green-Blacks never looked terribly dangerous in attack and often appeared wrong footed in defense. Milos Pantovic carved them up with Nikola Vujnovic and Justas Lasickas providing the goals. Before you could blink Vozdovac is in 5th place

News & Notes

Taking a[n International] break

This week most men’s leagues are taking a break to squeeze in a rapid round of World Cup Qualifiers. Simultaneously, we’ll be trekking to and from Montana for farewells to some extended family. So expect few details and more family time.

The Devil’s Candy

Ronaldo’s mirror likeness

When I was a kid, the first European kit I had that most people recognized was Manchester United. An English team with a chunk of championships, a masterful manager, and ubiquitously famous players. They were easy to dislike.

The last decade has been less kind as managers burn out, famous stars flame out, and champs become chumps (especially as their cross town rivals became a dominant side) . But in the span of a few hours this week they relearned all the disgust and loathing from around the world.

How? By re-signing former star, frequent candidate for worlds best, and maddeningly perfect Physical specimen: Cristiano Ronaldo. Thanks for doing what you always do and making it easy to dislike you Man U.

Player of the Week

There were lots of scoring stars we don’t talk about much this week: Woo-Yong Jeong, Adrien Honou, Jaden Griggs. But we can’t deny that we’ve probably owed a nod to Nikola Vujnovic whose excellent form has hoisted the Red Dragons from the depths of Serbia’s league to the outskirts of the European chase.

Standings Update

Rosenborg’s grasp on the top spot slipped after a rough week and the Griz were there to claw their way back to a tie (only goal differential separates them). The same is true for Punjab and Freiburg where Chencho Gyeltshen’s offense helps keep the goal advantage

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Rosenborg BK244102.002.51.2
University of Montana10052.001.80.8
Emelec229101.81.61.2
Minnesota United8761.4761.11.1
Punjab FC–b7461.4711.20.9
Freiburg155141.4711.61.6
Legon Cities–b116111.391.21.0
Grenoble Foot118121.321.11.2
FK Vozdovac96111.271.01.5
Ross County104131.261.21.4
Alebrijes41081.001.31.9
Table Updated 8/30/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, September 1st

Alebrijes v Raya 2

Thursday, September 2nd

Friday, September 3rd

Saturday, September 4th

Rosenborg v Vålerenga [F]

Sunday, September 5th

Freiburg v Eintracht Frankfurt [F]

Grenoble v ASPTT Albi [F]

Gonzaga Bulldogs v Montana Grizzlies

Monday, September 6th

Tuesday, September 7th

Week 34: New Top of the Table!

Week 34: New Top of the Table!

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Results & Recaps

Alebrijes 2 – 3 Tepatilan

The Oaxacans continue to struggle to catch anything remotely resembling a break. Even after another Julio Cesar Cruz equalizer and a Lizandro Echeverria goal to take the lead, they couldn’t hold on. In 360 minutes this season, they’ve lead for 18 of them (5% of the season). Clearly there’s still work to be done in the back.

FC Minsk 1 – 2 Rosenborg [F-Europe]

Rosenborg got to host playoff games en route to the Women’s Champion’s League and they kicked off with a big win over FC Minsk (courtesy of your favorite tandem and mine: Julie Blakstad and Lisa-Marie Utland)

Rennes 2 – 0 Rosenborg [M-Europe]

It’s not terribly surprising that Rosenborg struggled against a team from the top tier of French football. And needing two or more goals at home is something they can manage…if they’re on point. (Sidebar: Baptiste Santamaria made his Rennes debut after leaving Freiburg last week…so, the revolving door of Rennes and our favorite teams remains).

Creighton Bluejays 2 – 1 Montana Grizzlies

The Griz had an adventure getting to Omaha (good thing they’re elite athletes, it made running across Denver Airport a little easier), but once there they gave the bigger program all the could handle. Caitlin Rogers put in an iron woman shift on the back line (going all 108 minutes), and Montana’s own Josie Windaur got her first career goal in the garnet and silver, but in the end the Griz fell on a late winner from Creighton. Still a positive start for the team looking to punch above expectations for the Big Sky Conference.

Metalac 0 – 1 Vozdovac

Nikola Vujnovic kept up his strong form with another goal on a stellar little run. Better still, the Dragons’ defense delivered their first clean sheet of the season.

Freiburg 2 – 1 Dortmund [M]

One of the German giants came to Breisgau and left disappointed. Freiburg got ahead early (thanks Vincenzo) and didn’t let up (that second goal…wowza…Roland Sallai did just about everything). But after epic victories, it’s important not just to talk about the goals that won it, but also the defense that made it possible. So kudos to the defensive core of Phillip Leinhart, Nico Schlotterback, and Christian Gunter for stopping a star studded offense.

Grenoble 2 – 0 Quevilly [M]

The sun lifted les grenoblois off the bottom of the table, and for the first time in forever, everybody seemed to be on point. Mableu, Nestor and Monfray held down the back while Yoric Ravet lead the line with both a goal and an assist. Plus Charles Pickel did his best Jessy Bennet. (It was so convincing that right after the game he got to leave Grenoble!)

Minnesota United 0 – 0 Sporting KC

I was very excited to watch this game with you boys. Covid’s return meant I couldn’t take you. Technology issues meant we missed the first 15 minutes. 10 minutes later you decided you wanted a snack and then forgot about the game to go play in the backyard.

We made the right choice.

Stats suggest the Loons should have scored three goals, instead they got zero. The inability to put the biscuit in the basket is starting to drive even the most loyal fans up a wall…

Levante 4 – 3 Rosenborg [F-Europe]

Rosenborg wasn’t able to launch themselves into the group stages of the women’s champion’s league despite home field advantage as Levante prevailed in an epic encounter. The Troll Jenter were chasing the game for the much of the match and this might be the first time we’ve ever seen Kristine Nostmo so wrong footed and out of her element. (It was also by far the most goals scored against the black and white in our time writing about the team). Again Blakstand and Utland delivered vital goals, but it wasn’t enough and Rosenborg will have to wait a year for a shot at the biggest stage in Europe.

Nueve de Octubre 2 – 2 Emelec [M]

It was definitely a point win for Los bombillos, who looked to be facing their second loss in 2021 Liga Pro (the last one also to Nueve). Down two goals and one player with ten minutes to go, Joao Rojas scored twice on a pair of…close…offsides calls. It was all they needed to salvage a point and keep them in 2nd place.

Ross County 2 – 4 Rangers

I try to be optimistic, but I really doubted County’s ability to keep up with Rangers. Granted, the didn’t really keep up, but they scored twice and weren’t played off their own field so…yeah, I guess…moral victory?

Rosenborg 5 – 0 Odd [M]

The troll boys handled Odd with ease, with Stefano Vecchia notching two goals, Verbjørn Hoff getting two assists and Emil Konradsen Ceide getting one of each. (That even leaves out Noah Holm’s blistering run to score) We hope they still feel fresh for the match with Rennes next week (maybe Vecchia and Ceide merit another runout together…just saying))

Montana Grizzlies 0 – 1 Portland Pilots

While the Pilots have a storied history, their recent past gave the Griz some hope, but it wasn’t to be as both back lines stood tough until a beauty of a curler beat blue haired Elizabeth Todd for a gorgeous winner. Again the Griz were tough against a high profile opponent, and Owen got to watch with me as Taylor Hansen flexed her leadership, Ava Samuelson showcased her fresh flair, and McKenzie Kilpatrick did our name proud.

News & Notes

Gre-NOOOOOOOOO-ble

The French side mired at the bottom of Ligue 2 in desperate need of some good news went and found the opposite this week by sending Charles Pickel to Portugal (immediately after his man of the match performance) and releasing captain and strong defender Jerome Mombris. The comments are a special blend of sports fan frustration and French ennui. We thank Charles and Jerome for their work, and would like to Jerome that Madagascar defenders [like his teammate/pal Romain Metanire] are welcome at Minnesota United…just saying…

Never vacuum

The only goal in The Griz’s game this weekend was scored when we were vacuuming (well, I was vacuuming, Owen, you were running away and flopping on any soft surface you could find). The lesson is clear: never vacuum. [Another valuable lesson watching the game, be like the bros who rocked overalls, bare chests, and cowboy hats to a soccer game…that’s how we do soccer in the big MT]

Way to Advertise Women in Europe!

I knew there was some news about Rosenborg facing reigning European women’s champs Barcelona (they meet in a friendly Saturday), but in doing that research I uncovered an utterly unremarked upon entry in the local team history, namely that our favorite lady trolls vied for qualification in Europe this week. Some reviews and the kind public service provided by femfootball let us cover it, but a little too late.

Player of the Week

For 10 weeks, Emelec and Rosenborg have dominated the player of the week conversation. Even when other teams were in action their performances never quite measured up. This week there were great showings from all of Rosenborg and Joao Rojas. But there was also Nikola Vjunovic and Yoric Ravet bringing back some struggling sides. But we’ll go with Christian Gunter who both bottled up Dortmund darling Erling Haaland, delivered some delicious passes, and set a new Freiburg record for appearances en route to their win.

Standings Update

And for the first time in a long time, we have a new leader in the standings!! The pair of defeats dropped the Griz from the top to…well..very nearly the top, as Rosenborg was there to capitalize despite their own inconsistent week. It’s going to be a battle for the top as we enter the final four months of the campaign.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Rosenborg BK24482.112.61.1
University of Montana9042.081.70.8
Emelec219101.81.61.2
Punjab FC–b7461.4711.20.9
Freiburg145131.4691.61.5
Minnesota United7761.401.11.2
Legon Cities–b116111.391.21.0
Grenoble Foot118111.371.11.2
Ross County82121.271.21.4
FK Vozdovac86111.201.01.6
Alebrijes4981.001.32.0
Table Updated 8/24/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, August 25th

Thursday, August 26th

Rosenborg v. Rennes [M-Europe]

Cal Poly Mustangs v. Montana Grizzlies

Friday, August 27th

Hoffenheim v. Freiburg [F]

Saturday, August 28th

Stuttgart v. Freiburg [M]

FK Vozdovac v Kolubara

Sochaux v. Grenoble [M]

Houston v. Minnesota United

[Rosenborg v. Barcelona–F Friendly]

Sunday, August 29th

Aberdeen v. Ross County

Viking v. Rosenborg [M]

Emelec v. Olmedo

UDG v. Alebrijes

Montana Grizzlies v. Montana State University-Billings Yellow Jackets

Monday, August 30th

Tuesday, August 31st

Week 33: Darker Before the Dawn

Week 33: Darker Before the Dawn

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Results & Recaps

Tlaxcala FC 1 – 1 Alebrijes

Julio César Cruz bagged the first goal of this year’s campaign on a simple but effective attack. However, it wasn’t enough to net Oaxaca’s first win.

Arminia Bielefeld 0 – 0 Freiburg

Freiburg was unable to find a way past Beilefeld’s keeper, but can take some comfort from a strong attack that kept their opponents on the back foot.

Also, this happened…

https://twitter.com/silvaculture/status/1427479206359969793

Sandviken 2 – 0 Rosenborg BK [F]

With their second loss to Sandviken, there’s no denying it anymore: the unbeatable Rosenborg is not the best team in the Topp Serien. Hard as it is to admit, it does focus the campaign not on staying unbeaten, but on reaching the Champions league (So far, so good)

Niort 1 – 0 Grenoble [M]

Mon dieu. It’s getting grim in Grenoble, as manager Maurizio Jacobacci has yet to win a match and our Alpiners are rooted to the bottom of the table.

Minnesota United 0 – 1 Los Angeles Galaxy

Another week, another Loon’s home match I had to miss. This time there wasn’t much to see as despite a strong defense and the usual Bébelo magic, the Loons couldn’t finish their chances.

Emelec 3 – 0 CSD Macara

Despite being a man down for much of the match (why cleat someone on your run Sebastian Rodriguez…why?), Los Bombillos dominated. Jose Cevallos had become an invaluable target man (just ask Dixon Arroyo), and Facundo Barcelo offers another bolt of speed to burn the opposition. Don’t look now, but Emelec’s just two points off the lead in the league and gunning for a season sweep of trophies.

Vozdovac 3 – 2 Novi Pazar

With Nikola Vujnovic leading the way the Red Dragons got another win. None of the goals were beautifully developed, but beauty and Serbia don’t exactly go together, I mean, just watch the wrasslin’ move that took down Milos Pantovic in the second half…eeks.

Mjondalen 1 – 2 Rosenborg [M]

While Carlo Holse hasn’t been the big name on recent Rosenborg score sheets he had a great game here supported by goal scorers Anders Konradsen and Erland Dahl Reitan. It still took some doing for Rosenborg to withstand the final onslaught of attacks, but they managed to make it across the finish line.

San Jose Earthquakes 1 – 1 Minnesota United

A late night match that I wasn’t going to stay up for, the Loons started out with an uncharacteristic gaffe from Bakye Dibassy at the back. Even with the Quakes losing a man a few minutes later, Minnesota struggled to get much of anything connected (playing two games in three days can have that effect on you).

News & Notes

Here come the Griz

It’s Taylor time! The Griz will follow the lead of fifth year seniors Taylor Stoeger in the front and Taylor Hansen in the back as they seek to cement their spot at the top of our MacKenzie Cup standings. The big challenge there will be extending their competition beyond the Big Sky. While Conference games made up 9 of their 11 matches in the spring, they start out with 8 non-conference games including three against power sides like Creighton, Gonzaga, and Boise State. Even their conference schedule is less comfortable with 5 road games (including at co-favorites Northern Arizona and Northern Colorado) as opposed to 4 home matches.

Hopes for Afghanistan

After 20 years, the United States armed forces (including a few dozen of your dad’s high school classmates), have left the nation of Afghanistan. The war started shortly after your mother and I met. It continued long enough for me to teach refugees from it and future soldiers in it. And then, we left with the same people in power as when it began and the same threat to women, girls, and contrary thinkers as we had at the beginning. We hope that the people of Afghanistan are safe and secure and remember that soccer is nothing next to that.

Player of the Week

Despite the lasting Kristoffer Zachariassen sized hole in our Rosenborg hearts, Anders Konradsen’s great form has gone a long way to easing the pain.

Standings Update

The Griz get back into action this week with their lead on the line. Kicking off with the Big East’s Creighton (alma mater of a couple Loons players), is going to put them to the test right away. Meanwhile, Alebrijes slides to the bottom of the table.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana9022.52.10.6
Rosenborg BK22462.22.61.0
Emelec218101.81.51.2
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Freiburg135131.421.61.5
Minnesota United7661.421.21.2
Legon Cities–b116111.391.21.0
Ross County82111.321.21.3
Grenoble Foot108111.311.11.3
FK Vozdovac76111.131.01.7
Alebrijes4971.051.31.9
Table Updated 8/18/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, August 18th

Alebrijes v Tepatilan

Thursday, August 19th

Rennes v Rosenborg [M-Europe]

Creighton Bluejays v. Montana Grizzlies

Friday, August 20th

Metalac v Vozdovac

Saturday, August 21st

Freiburg v Dortmund

Grenoble v Quevilly [M]

Minnesota United v. Sporting KC

Nueve de Octubre v. Emelec

Sunday, August 22nd

Ross County v. Rangers

Rosenborg v Odd [M]

Montana Grizzlies v. Portland Pilots

Monday, August 23rd

Tuesday, August 24th

San Jose Earthquakes v. Minnesota United

Week 32: Making Moves

Week 32: Making Moves

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

News & Notes

Rosenborg 6 – 1 Domzale [M-Europe]

The Norwegian squad welcomed the Slovenian side with a barrage of attacks with Dino Islamovic again at the point of the attack with Emil Konradsen Ceide linking beautifully. Left Back Adam Andersson continued to build up his resume on both sides of the ball notching a goal of his own and a solid spell at the back.

Stabaek 2 – 5 Rosenborg BK [F]

That was almost a stunner. Bunched up in the bottom Stabaek had two leads over RBK (1-0 and 2-1) but then they ladies of Rosenborg rose to the occasion and left no doubt, knocking in 4 goals in 15 minutes. Lisa Marie Utland’s hat trick stole the show and set up a vital match at Sandviken next week.

Grenoble 0 – 0 Guingamp [M]

When a nil-nil result is the best outcome of the season so far, you can see why Grenoble has struggled of late.

Minnesota United 2 – 0Houston Dynamo

I was really hoping to go to this, but the cold that tore through our house made it unviable. I missed out on a good one for the Loons as Emanuel Reynoso continues to make magic happen with a pair of great assists and numerous dangerous chances.

Hibernian 3 – 0 Ross County

The Staggies met a clearly better side and came out clearly the worse for it.

Wurzburger Kickers 0 – 1 Freiburg [M-Cup]

Starting off the season against a Wurzburger side that’s struggling in the fourth division didn’t ask much of the makeshift Freiburg side, but the back line showed well and Jonathan Schmid scored the winner.

Vojvodina 2 – 0 Vozdovac

The Red Dragons continue to struggle this season, as the defense continues to rattle and the attack struggles to connect.

Delfin 1 – 2 Emelec [M]

Los Bombillos seem to be finding their stride, showing strong control over Delfín. The balls were consistently flying in from the wings, but when Alejandro Cabeza got it at his feet in the area it was all they needed with a desperate Delfin unable to stop him when he was that close.

Domzale 1 – 2 Rosenborg [M-Europe]

Rosenborg had to came back to win it, but Domzale’s struggles to score in the first half made clear they wouldn’t be able to challenge RBK’s 6-1 edge. Lower wattage stars: Noah Holm and Andres Konradsen looked to have a great connection working in the second half. The continental squad hasn’t been tested yet but that will change against France’s top flight side: Rennes.

News & Notes

Blood Feud in Bergen

This weekend sees the rematch between Rosenborg and the team that ended their unbeaten run in the Toppseiren (and the current first place side) Sandviken. This time Rosenborg is on the road so the battle will be by all the more difficult, but we have hope: blind foolish hope.

El Rey de las Estrellas

While most leagues save their awards for the end of the year, the MLS likes shouting out superb players mid season to represent the league in a friendly against Mexico’s all stars. This year Reynoso was chosen to represent Minnesota (who’ve never had more than one rep despite a strong first four years in the league).

Messi’s Moving

This week the greatest player of this (maybe any) generation had to leave his life long club. Before I could write this he signed with well-financed French giants Paris Saint-Germain. He’ll make 41 Million bucks for two years, play with some superb teammates and have a chance to win the most coveted club trophy in the world. But what if….he got offers from some of our favorites.

What follows are pitches from possible landing spots for Lionel Messi

Admit it, this would be cool…

Minnesota United: come bring the CONCACAF Champions League to the US! You’ll play alongside a miniature version of yourself in Bébelo, and we’ll pay you Joe Mauer Money ($109 mil)

Emelec: the only trophy that compares with the Champions League is Copa Libertadores, which you can win with us while also avoiding partisan club fans in Argentina. We don’t have quite the same players but we’ll pay more ($75 Million)

Legon Cities: Come change the world and lead us to African Champions League Glory! You’ll probably get Asamoah Gyan to target…eventually and we’ll give you 500 Million Cedis (please don’t ask about the exchange rate)

Rosenborg BK: Why change the world when you can change history! We’ve got elite players, and with you on board we can make UEFA Inter gender teams the future of the sport! Blakstad, Utland, Messi!!! Make it happen (we’ll just give you a share of the team)

Player(s) of the Week(s)

Every little thing he does is magic, give it up for Emanuel Reynoso.

Standings Update

The Troll Teams are giving the University Of Montana very little room for error as a three win week keeps them well within reach of their second strait MacKenzie Cup.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana–b9022.52.10.6
Rosenborg BK21452.22.71.0
Emelec208101.81.51.2
Minnesota United7551.531.21.2
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Freiburg134131.431.71.6
Legon Cities–b116111.391.21.0
Grenoble Foot108101.361.11.3
Ross County82111.321.21.3
Alebrijes4761.051.42.1
FK Vozdovac66111.040.91.7
Table Updated 8/11/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, August 11th

Tlaxaca FC v. Alebrijes

Thursday, August 12th

Friday, August 13th

Saturday, August 14th

Arminia Bielefeld v. Freiburg

Sandviken v. Rosenborg BK [F]

Vozdovac v. Novi Pazar

Niort v. Guingamp [M]

Minnesota United v. Los Angeles Galaxy

Sunday, August 15th

Mjondalen v. Rosenborg

Emelec v. CSD Macara

Monday, August 16th

Tuesday, August 17th

San Jose Earthquakes v. Minnesota United

Week 29-31: Take a Breath

Week 29-31: Take a Breath

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Wait, What Happened?

In short…this…

First, the big thing that happened: your grandparents went on vacation. That meant we got to play, and run, and wrestle, and tell stories, and bowl, and swim, and just about everything else. It also meant, that I did not have time to review such things as soccer highlights, or write about matches. So, here’s a recap of the last three weeks with notes about each team and how they fared starting with the two big stories from the end of July

Did Emelec win it all or get knocked out?

Manta 0 – 4 Emelec [M]

Liga de Marcas 1 – 1 Emelec [F]

Emelec 1 – 4 Deportiva Cuenca [F]

Deportiva Cuenca 0 – 1 Emelec [M]

Barcelona 3 – 0 Emelec [F]

Emelec 2 – 2 Aucus

BOTH! Let me explain

The men’s victory of Manta clinched the first stage title! Facundo Barcelo and Dixon Arroyo led the way as los bombillos celebrated their first taste of glory since 2018.

The women’s team did not fare as well, following a draw with the lowly Liga de Marcas with a pair of defeats to regional rivals that stopped them from progressing to the playoff portion of the season. [The commments on their see you next year tweet seem to be encouraging whole sale change]

But, as the men start the second half of the season there’s still a good amount of hope that they can hoist the big trophy at year’s end, even if the draw at home to Aucus doesn’t exactly inspire dreams of a dominant campaign.

Were the Royals Relegated?

Legon Cities FC 3 – 2 Eleven Wonders

Miraculously, NO! Despite looking every bit the chaotic and relegation doomed side in the first half (when the Royals very much were looking at a season with a bloated payroll in a lower league), the Royals came back with goals from Hans Kwofie and Matthew Anim Cudjoe to save the win and jump from 16th to 11th place (it’s a little crazy in Ghana). [Though that’s only my read of the events]

Vozdavac’s Victory…and other outcomes…

Cukaricki 2 – 1 FK Vozdovac

Vozdovac 2 – 1 Proleter

Paritzan Beograd 4 – 0 Vozdovac

Serbia’s league kicked off with Vozdovac in much the same place that we lost saw them…struggling in the middle of the table. But now that the league only has 16 teams (as opposed to last year’s 20) the cushion at the bottom might not be as soft for the Red Dragons. In the duopoly of Serbia, your best hope is a tough defense…but the leaky new Vozdovac defense makes that uncertain. The highlight was surely Ivan Milosavljevic’s brace from beautiful runs to beat Proleter.

Troublesome Trolls

Rosenborg BK 0 – 2 Sandviken [F]

Tromso 1 – 3 Rosenborg [M]

FH Hafnarfjodur 0 – 2 Rosenborg [M–Europe]

Melhus 0 – 7 Rosenborg [M-Cup]

Rosenborg 4 – 1 FH Hafnarfjodur [M-Europe]

Orkla 1 -11 Rosenborg [M-Cup]

Yes, against all odds the only flaw in the ointment of Rosenborg’s recent run was the Women’s team who lost for the first time while repping the black and white in the league. Sandviken’s win gave the women something to think about for the last few weeks during the mid-season break, and hopefully they’ll be back to full strength this coming weekend.

Meanwhile the men ran roughshod over some (admittedly) lower wattage opponents, during the Eliteserien’s approximate mid-way point. Against lower level local clubs they ran up a stunning 18-1 goal difference with Dino Islamovic notching 5 between the two matches. Emil Konradsen Ceide also notched a hat trick and they head to the round of 32 without breaking a sweat.

The outlook is similarly bright in the hunt for a berth in Europe’s lowest league. Having decked their Icelandic opponents, Rosenborg is now set for a match with Slovenia’s Domzale and the winner of that is left with a pair of matches against French foes (and former home of the Loons’ Adrien Honou) Rennes. Factor in all these matches (plus the win at Tromso) and Dino Islamovic is up to 8 goals in his last 5 matches. Or enough for a blow out win against all their opponents combined. (Kudos also to Andre Hansen, Even Hovland and Adam Andersson for anchoring the overpowering defense).

Stellar Staggies Survive Sickness

Ross County 0 – 3 Dundee FC [Cup]

Bora Rangers 0 – 1 Ross County [Cup]

Ross County 4 – 1 Montrose [Cup]

Ross County 0 – 0 St. Johnstone

Yup, Ross County was not miraculously unscathed by the global pandemic and had to forfeit their second match of the cup thereby eliminating them from the competition before they ever kicked a ball. But, once they were able to run out (against lower level sides) they looked the part of a solid squad. Credit to the players for coming back from illness and getting prepped for kicking off the league with your standard issue goalless Scottish draw. (Thanks Ross Laidlaw and Alex Iacovitti for being the new powers behind County’s class, Blair Spittal for the world class goal, and YouTube User RossCounty 1929 for the highlights and pump up music..)

Loons Land Safely

Minnesota United 1 – 0 Seattle Sounders

Minnesota United 2 – 1 Portland Timbers

Los Angeles FC 2 – 2 Minnesota United

Vancouver Whitecaps 2 – 2 Minnesota United

With the European Cup competitors back in the fold the Loons hoped to sail into a trick series of games with some renewed energy. They succeeded.

Robin Lod has shone since I gave him up as a lousy waste of space last year and notched three goals to help the team along, but the stars are still unquestionably Emmanuel Reynoso who makes miracles happen with the ball at his feet (even while he has struggled to connect with other players on the field) and Hasani Dotson who has grown into the kind of player you just want to see on the pitch wherever possible because he’s always got something going for him. After a dismal start to the year, the Loons have gotten back into the playoff hunt (even if the Delta Variant’s resurgence has made taking either of you to a game an impossibility at present).

Good God, Grenoble!

Grenoble 0 – 4 Paris FC

Auxerre 3 – Grenoble 0

Well…that was a rough way to start off a new campaign.

Grenoble looks utterly wiped out, and the once powerful defense has been absolutely ripped from pillar to post. Brice Mableu, Loic Nestor, Jerome Mombris, and Adrien Monfry have given up 7 goals, supported none, and though it is very VERY early in the campaign, last year’s 4th place team is bottom of the barrel.

Alright Alebrijes!

Pumas Tobasco 0 – Alebrijes 0

Alebrijes 0 – 1 Cimarrones

Meanwhile, frequent strugglers Alebrijes of Oaxaca got a point…against a strong team in Pumas…on the road!! And while that came without a single goal scored, we’ll take what we can get with Alebrijes. (Especially given that they then dropped a match at home…but only by 1 goal!!)

News & Notes

Gosh Dang it Ghana!

I love Ghana. I really do. I love soccer, that should be obvious. But man, Ghanaian soccer makes it hard to love the two together.

Hashmin Musa being the hero…or not…

Here’s the latest drama: the Ghanaian police and Football Association are investigating match fixing…again. Yup, the same thing that destroyed the previous Ghanaian Premier League, threatens to destroy the new version within just two years! [A new record pace perhaps?] The dead rubber between top tier Ashanti Gold and relegated Inter Allies was always likely to end lopsidedly, but the dimwitted defense and goalkeeping that made it 5-0 were dubious. Then…came Hashmin Musa…who absolutely, no doubt, by his own admission scored own goals on purpose and pissed off his goalie to no end.

Musa claims that he was ruining the prearranged 5-0 score line…but the possibility that someone paid him even more to make it 7-0 is still out there and…because it just wouldn’t be as messed up as possible unless Legon Cities were also involved…the sudden barrage of goals to save the wealthy and high profile Royals from relegation is also coming under question. Suffice to say, there were plenty of ugly defense to help the Royals find the net, but there were also a few moments where it would have been easy to throw the game but players and referees didn’t oblige..so…[shrug emoji] So despite extended questioning and possible further destruction of the domestic game, Legon Cities is safe, for now.

Goodbye sweet prince

Best of luck Kristoffer!

The Transfer Market hulaballoo has tempered down as Ross County set their line ups through surgical masks and Vozdovac vets the team their sending out, but there’s still action, including a painful farewell.

Kristoffer Zacharaissen is too good for this humble corner of the internet where we gawk at his chiseled jaw bone and make allusions to Schitt’s Creek because we can’t really break down his game effectively. Whatever the case, he has left Rosenborg for greener pastures and greener kits joining Hungary’s Ferencvaros, a side with a shot at the top league in Europe (and a chance to be brutally repressed by Viktor Orban…so, keep your nose clean Kristoffer)

Roster Updates

A few other notes as we missed kickoffs for Grenoble, and Oaxaca and got back just in time for Freiburg.

Oaxaca

As a lower division team in the middle of a global pandemic/recession, Alebrijes did not have a lot of extra cash to throw around, so the lean mostly on loans (both in and out). While forward Ricardo Monreal is probably the biggest name to depart, there are several defenders who also left the fold (Daniel Cisneros, Oscar Torres, Yohan Zetuna, Jair Cortes, Fernando Plascencia).

The only defenders who have come in are Ernesto Reyes of Cimarrones, and youngster Adrian Vazquez on loan. Instead, Oaxaca focused on bringing in some more veteran attacking presences. Most notable: Cristian Panesso a Colombian coming in from Portugal, and Leandro Torres an Argentinian coming down from Liga MX. Local and familiar faces from the league around them, Armando Gonzalez, Lizandro Echeverria, Miguel Vallejo, and Alexis Conrado.

Grenoble
Sign this man!

After Phillipe Hirchenberger led the side quite well for 3 years, he left for Amiens and new man Maurizio Jacobacci made a big swap. Yes, Grenoble did something I never expected,and am frankly broken up about: they said farewell to leader and mastermind Jessy Bennet (more shockingly Jessy still hasn’t signed anywhere…and he’s only 26…seriously…Ross County…Legon Cities…Punjab… ANYBODY!! GET JESSY BACK!)

Willy Semedo, Kevin Tapoko, and Haroun Demba also left, but the club did net 1.5 million euros for Moussa Djitte’s move state side. (Sad but less shocking that Jessy (SERIOUSLY! I WILL PAY PART OF IT MYSELF!!). The side got a lot younger in response (without spending much of anything), bringing in Georgian Winger Giorgi Kokhreidze and two 20 something Swiss midfielders from FC Basel: Yannick Marchand and Orges Bunjaku.

Freiburg
Welcome aboard Nishan (center)

Our German reps opted against a spending spree this year…so much so that they haven’t spent a thing.

Gone are Chang-hoon Kwon (back to South Korea), greatly improved goalkeeper Florian Muller and attacker Guus Til, and up to the senior squad come six young players, none older than 21. The most intriguing players coming in are attacker Nishan Burkart (who learned the game at Man United), Noah Weishaupt (who has surged up the depth charts on the left side), and keeper/local boy made good Noah Atubolu

Freiburg and Grenoble’s women’s teams will get another month of prep kicking off August 28th (in Germany) and September 5th (in France)

Player(s) of the Week(s)

We’ll put three players on the pedestal for the past three weeks. Let’s tip the hat to Rosenborg’s attack and defense by admitting that Dino Islamovic’s attack has been ridiculously good, and that Even Hovland has done it all on both sides of the pitch. Our third award winner has to be from the new trophy winners in Ecuador: Emelec, and to keep it all balanced, midfielder and team leader Dixon Arroyo gets our nod.

Islamovic and Horvland celebrating their awards (and probably wins)

Standings Update

We had to break down to three decimal points for the first time ever! Freiburg, Ross County, and Grenoble are splitting hairs, it’s hardest for Grenoble who plummet from 4th to 9th. Meanwhile the Loons leap up to fifth and are getting closer to the top tier of teams.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana–b9022.52.10.6
Rosenborg BK18452.22.51.0
Emelec198101.81.51.2
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Minnesota United6551.441.21.3
Legon Cities–b116111.391.21.0
Freiburg124131.3791.71.6
Ross County82101.3751.31.3
Grenoble Foot107101.3701.21.3
Alebrijes4761.051.42.1
FK Vozdovac5691.040.91.6
Table Updated 8/4/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, August 4th

Rosenborg v. Domzale [M-Europe]

Thursday, August 5th

Friday, August 6th

Saturday, August 7th

Stabaek v. Rosenborg BK [F]

Grenoble v. Guingamp [M]

Minnesota United v. Houston Dynamo

Sunday, August 8th

Hibernian v. Ross County

Wurzburger Kickers v. Freiburg [M-Cup]

Vojvodina v. Vozdovac

Delfin v. Emelec

Monday, August 9th

Tuesday, August 10th

Donzale v. Rosenborg [M-Europe]

59. Power of Perspective

59. Power of Perspective

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

I have a favorite thing to read, one that both boys have heard me read often. It’s a weekly magazine published in London and sent to us and millions of others around the world: The Economist.

I started reading it on long Saturdays in Montana towns, working with my friend Brian to keep aware of world affairs. Your mom rekindled my love for it, and for the past 11 years I’ve rarely missed an issue. I’ve even read chunks to the both of you (which was easier when you were wee babies than it is now).

Dear Boys,

The Economist covers just about everything under the sun. Even an article a week has better informed me about passions of mine (international education, diplomacy, race) and cares of friends and family (Scottish independence, Ghanaian funerals, Hindu nationalism). But most relevant here is when it talks about soccer.

In the madness of the last few weeks I read one article that touched on soccer in a way that lines up neatly with this blog and my advice to you. To wit, soccer is a blank slate, and what we see in the game is a reflection of us. I’ll just tack on this thought to an already sterling column: acknowledge that your perspective is just that, your own.

Consider one of my most common topics in all these posts: how awesome Rosenborg Kvinner are.

To me, the story of RBKK is a story of cohesion, cooperation, teamwork and excellence achieved. We cover the exploits of Blakstad, Utland, and Rulyte because they are excellent, and covering women’s teams with as much enthusiasm as we have for men’s teams is only fair. I believe women deserve equal pay and recognition…I can’t change the pay but I can definitely add to the recognition in my own small way.

But that is my perspective.

Across the street from us, during the annual street festival each year, is a stand for the Minnesota Men’s Rights Group who advocate for men as a disadvantaged group (despite our disproportionate power politically, socially, culturally and economically). As part of the “Mano sphere” they believe that the limited erosion in our strength over the past few decades is discriminatory, and traditional (male dominated) society should be restored.

If you were to show some of their members (to say nothing of the radical wings of the internet) they would see something very different. (I know…I’ve heard it in real life already).

To them, this is another sign of the diminishment of men. I’m too hidebound by political correctness to acknowledge that the men’s game is superior. I’m too scared of my own authority to put the men’s game, the better game, first. That women are playing at all is a sign of how weakened men are in the first place. That I’m “pushing” these ideas on you will further weaken the future of men. (And that’s before we get into some of the more crude assumptions about soccer being effeminate in the first place).

That is there perspective.

I believe that my perspective is founded in truth, optimism, and equality, and theirs is founded on fear. Therefore, I think my reading is both more accurate and better for your future in society than theirs.

But of course I do. I’m writing this thing.

It’s less about whose perspective is right and whose is wrong (for the record, I’m right…me…your dad). It’s more about the fact that we each voice our perspective, and that soccer gives us both a space to explore our beliefs and a means to express them.

Soccer helps us to talk about gender and equality, about race and prejudice, about capitalism, socialism, authoritarianism, colonialism, and any number of other ideals, beliefs, questions, and issues that arise.

Whatever you take away from it, that’s your perspective. You can and should acknowledge that it’s one perspective among many. By all means, hear others, consider different points of view, and refine and revise your perspective as you feel best.

It can be very easy to seek ways to blame others, or insist that you have cornered the market on truth. But when you acknowledge the power your own perception has over what you see, you acknowledge that you know you’re thinking. You acknowledge that you have a power to think critically rather than believe blindly. When you admit that it’s your perspective, you own your place in the broader world.

As we face down a resurgent pandemic and an erasure of borders, I hope you listen to the thoughts of others, read good writing about the whole wide world, and own your perspective.

Week 28: Royally Messed Up

Week 28: Royally Messed Up

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Colorado 2 – 0 Minnesota United

While the Loons attack had been in great form coming in, the absence of an increasingly reliable backline made things shaky and the reshaped midfield struggled too. And, of course, because it was a game in Colorado, one Loon got a red card (this time Ramon Abila did the job, maybe if we get two more we’ll get a free bucket of Rocky Mountain Oysters…)

Forfar Athletic 3 – 0 Ross County [Cup]

County had to forfeit their competitive opener this year after a number of players contracted COVID-19. [See News below]

Lyn Fotball 1 – 2 Rosenborg BK [F]

Despite a late Lyn consolation goal, Rosenborg continues to roll through their opposition. The Emilies (Bragstad and Lein did the job this week), and Rosenborg will head into another top of the table clash (this time with unbeaten Sandiviken) looking to keep the streak alive. (Don’t tell anyone but this might hinge more on Rugile Rulyte continuing her great form in goal)

Rosenborg BK 1 – 0 Kristiansund [M]

Dino Islamovic returned to form with the game winner early on, and for only the third time this campaign, Andre Hansen kept a clean sheet. (Alexander Tetty helped out after moving to center back…and my befuddlement at the lack of Tetty/Zachariassen pairings continues to fuel my Rosenborg FanFic.) It was also great to see Emil Konradssen Ceide run over a number of fools en route to a flurry of chances (even if they didn’t find the net)

CS Emelec 2 – 0 Tecnico Universtario [F]

Don’t look now but las Electricas are on a streak! (Is two a streak…let’s say it is) again Kerlly Corozo found the net and the goalie stood firm (psst, Emelec, necesita cambiar la pagina de la pantilla. No se el nombre de su arquera primera)

Elmina Sharks 2 – 0 Legon Cities FC

This was…not good. The Royals rolled over for a team at the bottom of the table in Ghana and now they face a difficult end of the campaign with relegation lurking around the corner.

News & Notes

Decision Day South of the Equator

This weekend two leagues wrap up their campaigns with our favorite clubs at different ends of the spectrum.

First the good news: Emelec remains in the driver’s seat of the Liga Pro in Ecuador. With a three point lead and one game to play, Emelec needs only a point against 11th placed Manta to seal their first half championship (and with it a guaranteed shot at the title and a trip into the big daddy of South American sports, the Copa Libertadores). There is a nightmare scenario where a loss and rival Barcelona winning would knock them to second, so it ain’t over yet.

Buckle up, it’s about to get wild (photo from ghanasoccernet.com)

Meanwhile, in Ghana, Legon Cities remains desperate to provoke a heart attack before the end of the campaign. Having dropped a winnable game away against Elmina, they now face accusations from the victorious Sharks of fielding an ineligible player Defender Mohammed Issaka multiple times. If approved by the premier league board, Legon would forfeit a bunch of matches retroactively and plunge into relegation. How did Elmina figure this out? Simple, Issaka earned two yellows as a member of the Sharks in the fall, and then one with Legon. Of course, rather than point this out immediately, Elmina waited until now…because…ya know…reasons…

Meanwhile, someone NOT waiting to make an inappropriate move is the Legon Cities board who has brought on a special assistant coach (Maxwell Konadu) who definitely isn’t about to take over for their existing head coach (Bashir Hackford). I mean, that would be silly…besides lots of teams bring on extra assistants with two matches before the end of the season. And it’s only natural for assistant coaches to not coach with the head coach because it would be “tense”. [Narrator voice: It’s not].

Add to all that fun background that anything less than a win against Eleven Wonders this Sunday would provide an opening for Liberty Professionals (cross town rivals), Ebusua Dwarves (forced to forfeit to Legon), and Elmina Sharks (remember them from two paragraphs ago?) to leap past the Royals and send them packing for the lower leagues. Woof.

[Disgruntled growl]

I mentioned a few weeks ago that Franco Frangapane was accused of using a racial slur against a dark skinned player from the Portland Timbers, the following investigation concluded that only two people (Frangapane and the aggrieved Timber) know if he did or not, and they disagree…so [Shrug Emoji] what ya gonna do? [Hint: Bench Frangapane yourself Loons, at least for a game or two]

Staggies Saggy with Sickness

You might think that with countries opening and stadiums welcoming all the fans back at once, we’ve turned the corner on the germs. But as Ross County showed this week…NOPE. An undisclosed number of player and coaches turned up positive, and while the club claims they’ll be back in action soon, we’ve not heard an update in a week. So…whee…

Dragons Fly Again

The season is due to start up in Serbia again this week, with Vozdovac taking on Cukariki. It will be a little different look for the team who said goodbye to two long term members this offseason: Marko Gajic, a reliable defender since 2017, and attacking midfielder and frequent team captain Jovan Nisic. Meanwhile they added…well…a bunch of defenders. Nemanja Cvetkovic seems to have some clear talent from his last year in the 2nd division, but it’s yet to be seen if Stefan Jarakovic or Vasilije Mijalovic can stack up to what Gajic provided. Last year’s loanee Pavle Radulovic also returns but he has big shoes to fill if he’s expected to make up what Nisic was to the team.

Vincenzo Grifo appreciation post (even though he didn’t play for Italy this tournament….we miss him)

A Couple of Trophies

A few other news organizations covered this, but Italy won the European Cup, and Argentina won the South American Cup. Congratulations to Giorgio Chialini, Vincenzo Grifo, and Lionel Messi. I can’t think of anything else I could add of service.

Player of the Week

No one really shone this week, but that just allows us to finally tip the cap to Alexander Tetty of Rosenborg who has been a massive boon to the black and white since his arrival.

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 BK13442.11.91.0
Emelec17681.81.51.2
Grenoble Foot-b10781.481.21.1
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Freiburg–b124131.381.71.6
Legon Cities106111.331.11.0
Ross County82101.301.31.5
Minnesota United4351.251.01.3
Alebrijes-b4761.121.42.1
FK Vozdovac–b5691.050.91.6
Table Updated 7/14/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, July 14th

Thursday, July 15th

Friday, July 16th

Cukaricki v. FK Vozdovac

Saturday, July 17th

Rosenborg BK v. Sandviken [F]

Sunday, July 18th

Ross County v. Dundee FC [Cup]

Legon Cities FC v. Eleven Wonders

Tromso v. Rosenborg [M]

Minnesota United v. Seattle Sounders

Manta v. Emelec [M]

Liga de Marcas v. Emelec [F]

Monday, July 19th

Tuesday, July 20th

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 26: You Never Go Wrong with Julie Blakstad

Week 26: You Never Go Wrong with Julie Blakstad

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Minnesota United 2 – 0 Austin FC

The Loons announced their return to full stadia with authority in a strong shutout win lead by the newly terrifying trio of Bébelo, Frangapane and Adrien Honou. We stayed home to take care of a sick baby Owen, but hopefully the convincing win is the best medicine.

Legon Cities FC 1 – 2 Hearts of Oak

Falling behind quickly to local giants Hearts of Oak was predictable. The eventual loss was too. But Victorian Adebayor’s goal, will hopefully be the boon to the teams last four weeks (with far less fearsome opponents)

Lillestrom 2 – 0 Rosenborg BK [M]

In Round 1 of the Lillehammer/Trondheim tilt of the weekend, the gentlemen were wrong footed from the beginning. The attacking line couldn’t find a way through, and Even Hovland and Kristoffer Zachariassen were uncharacteristically poor. I’m not sure why Åge Hareide insists on putting Zachariassen, one of the country’s best midfielders, in attack rather than next to fellow excellent midfielder Alexander Tetty, but…here we are

Lillestrom Kvinner 0 – 3 Rosenborg BK [F]

Lillestrom Kvinner (or LSK) was the only team to beat Rosenborg last year, knocking the otherwise indomitable Trolls out of the cup competition. Lillestrom looked quite capable of challenging Rosenborg again, but the defense held firm and Kristine Nostmo stopped anything within her reach. Better still, Julie Blakstad was quite ready to take it to the rivals. Our favorite winger netted twice to lead a trouncing in Lillehammer to split the club series.

Macara 3 – 0 CS Emelec [F]

Another loss by las eléctricas raised the question of when to shift defensive strategy or staffing completely.

Portland Timbers 0 – 1 Minnesota United

The Loons were quick to strike with that blitzing trio of attackers in Portland, but hopes of a big win were dashed as a defensive showcase broke out with arguably the best game by the back line all year. So tip the hat to Michael Boxall and Bakye Dibassy for shutting down the space in front of goal (and of course Tyler Miller for coming up whenever he needed to).

King Faisal 2 – 0 Legon Cities

After a solid but ineffective showing against Hearts of Oak, the Royals should feel disappointed not to get points against the struggling Insh’allah boys. Their last three matches remain vital to survival.

News & Notes

Disappointing

Be Better Franco [From MLS]

Franco Frangapane has done quite well since his addition to the Minnesota line up. Unfortunately, that’s tempered by accusations that he used a racial insult towards an opponent (Diego Charra) in Saturday’s win.

The matter will be investigated, but if true we’ll be enduring Frangapane more than cheering. If not, he’s got a way to go to get us cheering again.

International Affairs Update

South American CopaAmerica

Pedro Ortiz was demoted from the starting spot with minimal improvement for Ecuador, a 2-2 draw with Peru and a 1-1 draw with Brazil. Shockingly that was enough for Ecuador to back in to the knockout stage.

European Euro Championships

With the end of the group stage came the end of the road for many of our favorite players.

Despite another Roland Sallai assist and a late lead against Germany in Munich, Hungary drew their last match to finish last in their group. Our regret for Sallai is surpassed only by our delight that special snowflake Viktor Orban gets no second act.

Finland leaves with memories [Photo from UEFA]

It’s hard to tell which is tougher, Finland’s elimination as one of the two weakest third place teams (despite strong showings from Lod & Raitalta) or Slovakia finishing as the other weakest team with only token appearances from Jan Gregus. Both are left wondering, what if…

The only two Bootroom XI reps in the Round of 16 were Phillip Leinhart and Christian Gunter. Sadly neither made the field and both saw their teams bounced out of the competition (albeit by a surprisingly slim margin in the case of Leinhart’s Austria)

Player of the Week

Franco Frangapane has played well and behaved badly. That’s never an issue with Julie Blakstad. Let that be the message this week: you can never go wrong with Julie Blakstad

Sara Kanutte summarizes our feelings if we ever meet Julie Blakstad [Photo from RosenborgKvinner Instagram]

Standings Update

A big two win week for Minnesota sees them catapult off the bottom of the table and up into 6th.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana–b9022.52.10.6
Rosenborg BK9241.92.11.1
Emelec15681.81.41.2
Grenoble Foot-b10781.481.21.1
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Legon Cities10581.401.20.9
Minnesota United4241.401.01.2
Freiburg–b124131.381.71.6
Ross County–b8291.371.31.5
Alebrijes-b4761.121.42.1
FK Vozdovac–b5691.050.91.6
Table Updated 6/29/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, June 30th

Rosenborg BK v. FK Haugesund [M]

Rosenborg BK v. Klepp [F]

Thursday, July 1st

Friday, July 2nd

Saturday, July 3rd

CS Emelec v. Carneras UPS [F]

Minnesota United v. San Jose Earthquakes

Sunday, July 4th

Legon Cities FC v. Bechem United

Odd v. Rosenborg BK [M]

Valerenga v. Rosenborg BK [F]

Monday, July 5th

Tuesday, July 6th

Week 25: Summertime Snowflakes

Week 25: Summertime Snowflakes

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

CS Emelec 2 – 0 Guayaquil City FC [F]

Las Eléctricas were clicking in their local Derby, with Adriana Valenzuela notching the first and celebrating the result with style. Even better news, we’ve finally got highlights!!

Dallas 1 – 1 Minnesota United

The Loons came out well and faded in the Texas heat. Franco Frangapane got his first in the black and blue off a direct rebound and the team generally looked more organized in the back. The squandered chances and desperate last second saves of the second half were a little underwhelming, but, that’s a little picky. Soon, we’ll have tickets of our own to use.

Rosenborg BK 0 – 1 Sarpsborg 08 [M]

With Kristoffer Zachariassen serving a one game suspension, the trolls lacked an attacking edge. Despite new man, Alexander Tettey, looking strong as a midfield partner, the forwards continue to struggle (sorry Dino Islamovic and Emil Ceide, I love ya but it’s true).

Rosenborg BK 1 – 0 Avaldsnes [F]

The Trolljenta remain unbeaten as Lisa Marie Utland offered all the offense they needed. (Especially as they’ve yet to ship a goal in 2021 the defense was ready to stop everything in the same area code. For Rosenborg one goal might as well be 100). It’s just the result they need before facing fellow unbeaten Lillestrom Kvinner.

News & Notes

International Affairs Update

South American CopaAmerica

Pedro Ortiz really ought to have done better against perpetually underwhelming Venezuela. But despite Ecuador dominating control and most of the chances, Pedro let in two of the three chances he faced and La Tri only managed 1 point.

In another news, Owen’s response to Neymar’s dribbling was just to say “Dance! Dance!!” He’s not wrong

European Euro Championships

The Euro Tournament is in full swing and so are some of our favorite players. (Still not Christian Gunter though)

Our Robin Lod versus Real Madrid’s Eden Hazard (Telegraph)

The Finnesota contingent again looked good with Robin Lod linking lots of good passes into the attack while Rasmus Schuller and Jakku Raitalta held their own against Russia (even though the Finns lost). They didn’t look as good in the loss to Belgium (though it’s hard to ever look as good as Belgium)

Phillip Leinhart again came on for Aleksandar Dragovic at Austria’s right back. But it was too late to stop the Dutch attack from notching a two goal win. (Likewise Jan Gregus’ late showing for Slovakia versus Sweden).

Rolland Sallai had the best showing. Creating frequent chances against the world champions France and delivering an assist that had Hungary ahead for a bit, before the French fought back for the draw.

Victor Orban’s A Special Snowflake

Most powerful man in Hungary can’t handle kneeling, because he’s too tired to get up that far.

Hungary’s home matches in Budapest have been rowdy, enthusiastic affairs. They’ve also had a consistent sampling of homophobic, racist, and fascist overtones. Weirder still, asked why he was cool with booing anti-racism (thus effectively cheering racism), prime minister/former right winger/current right wing demagogue Victor Orban said:

If you’re a guest in a country then understand its culture and do not provoke it…Do not provoke the host. We can only see this gesture system from our cultural vantage point as unintelligible, as provocation.

Victor Orban press conference reported by Bein Sport

So, to Orban, players kneeling silently is the same as someone daring you to punch them. Solemnly opposing racism is unintelligible because Hungary didn’t have slaves, which is the only racist thing ever,. And, apparently when in Hungary for a 90 minute game, you can’t possibly think about anything other than how Hungarians think of it. No word on how our favorite Hungarian (Roland Sallai) is responding. Hope you look for ways to stand for those in greater need Roland.

Coyle Goes Green

Griz striker Alexa Coyle will continue her career in beautiful Edinburgh playing for Hibernian Ladies. Having visited Easter Road, I’m pumped (not as pumped as I would be if she was joining a Ross County women’s side…but as that doesn’t exist, I suppose it’s ok).

Player of the Week

No one set the world on fire so let’s shout out Adriana Valenzuela for breaking las Eléctricas bad luck.

Standings Update

The Loons grabbed another point but their return keeps them entrenched at the bottom of the barrel. But the Ladies kept both Emelec and Rosenborg going strong near the top of the table.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana–b9022.52.10.6
Rosenborg BK8232.02.21.1
Emelec15671.81.51.1
Legon Cities10581.51.20.8
Grenoble Foot-b10781.481.21.1
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Freiburg–b124131.381.71.6
Ross County–b8291.371.31.5
Alebrijes-b4761.121.42.1
FK Vozdovac–b5691.050.91.6
Minnesota United2241.000.91.5
Table Updated 6/22/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, June 23rd

Minnesota United v Austin FC

Thursday, June 24th

Legon Cities FC v. Hearts of Oak

Friday, June 25th

Lillestrom v Rosenborg BK [M]

Saturday, June 26th

Lillestrom Kvinner v Rosenborg BK [F]

Macara v. CS Emelec [F]

Portland Timbers v. Minnesota United

Sunday, June 27th

Monday, June 28th

King Faisal v Legon Cities

Tuesday, June 29th