Cove Bay Pirates/STI v. City Merchants/NTI - The Ultimate Rivalry - This Time It's For Real!!!

[DodgeeD]

Sorry I haven't been as regular as usual over the last few days but a new term at school means a lot of work, names to learn and laws to lay down.

ssestig - The Stig has scored 6 goals in 63 games for STI to date.

route1 - Pendros is now starting his second season at Man U. He was a regular last season and that has had the knock on effect of him playing more often for NTI this season.

I'll try to get the next set of WCQ games posted tonight.

[DodgeeD]

2014 North American World Cup Qualifying

Matchday 7

Southern Treasure Islands v. Northern Treasure Islands
So for the 3rd time in 6 months, these major rivals went head-to-head in competitive international football. NTI had come out on top in the two previous clashes - could they make it three out of three?

With a packed World's End stadium behind, STI were determined to make up for their losses. They had all the early play with Bobinho and Captain Gingerbeard both going close. Unfortunately for the Southerners, Gregory Le Quack was in inspired form, pulling off a number of saves to ensure the teams went into the break 0-0. The second half saw more of the same as NTI remained on the back foot. Bob McBob went the closest for the visitors but STI remained in control. However, it all went wrong just before the hour mark when Maccaniniho collected the ball as an NTI attack brokedown, turned and passed it back to the keeper but hit it a bit too hard resulting in an own goal. The Northerners couldn't believe their luck and set up shop to protect their lead. STI started tpo throw everything forward and turned once more to super-sub Brendanio (although this time he had actually come on at half-time). He did the business once more, producing a mazy run and a fine finish to tie up the score. That was how it stayed until the final whistle, meaning STI have failed to beat their Northern rivals in the last three attempts.
Final Score: Southern Treasure Islands 1, Northern Treasure Islands 1 | STI Player ratings & Stats | NTI Player Ratings & Stats

In the other games, Mexico remained top of the group with a 5-0 thumping of Costa Rica. The U.S.A. slipped up as a last minute goal condemned them to a 1-1 draw at home to Honduras and two more dropped points.


Matchday 8

Northern Treasure Islands v. Mexico
NTI took on leaders Mexico in their next match, looking to close the gap at the top. They got off to a nightmare start with the Mexicans taking the lead after just 6 minutes. They got a lucky break shortly afterwrads though as Adam Flash went down following a weak challenge just inside the box and the penalty was given. Robert Boyle duly obliged from the spot to bring the scores level. On the half hour mark, Ryca Roseau broke forward from midfield and proceeded to skin the opposition defence before plşacing a shot into the bottom corner. 2-1 was how the scoreline remained until the 57th minute when Roseau produced another moment of magic to extend the home side's lead. He wasn't done there as a mere three minutes later he played the ball through to Roberto dos Santos, who made no mistake as he put a 4th goal past the shell-shocked Mexican defence. When the final whistle went, NTI knew they had taken a big step towards their first World Cup with a famous victory.
Final Score: Northern Treasure Islands 4, Mexico 1 | NTI Player Ratings & Stats

Honduras v. Southern Treasure Islands
STI were in a secure looking position going into this game but they had a difficult run-in with this being the first of three away fixtures in the last three games. As the other games to come would be against U.S.A. and Mexico, the pressure was on here to get a result. STI had most of the early play and were rewarded just before the half hour mark as Captain Gingerbread was fouled inside the area, allowing The Stig to step up and convert from the spot. Gingerbread got on the scoresheet himself a few minutes later as strike partner Bobinho cut back from the byline allowing him to stroke home form the edge of the six yard box. In the second half, STI had chances to kill off the game but failed to take them. They were made to sweat a bit when the Hondurans pulled one back with 17 minutes to play. The Southern boys held on thoug to secure the 2-1 win.
Final Score: Honduras 1, Southern Treasure Islands 2 | STI Player Ratings & Stats

In the other game, the Americans stayed in the hunt with a single goal victory away to Costa Rica.


Forthcoming Fixtures:
Costa Rica v. Northern Treasure Islands
Honduras v. Mexico
U.S.A. v. Southern Treasure Islands

Honduras v. Costa Rica
Mexico v. Southern Treasure Islands
U.S.A. v. Northern Treasure Islands

NTI will be looking to get a win from the Costa Rica game to assure qualificaiton before a difficult final match away to the USA. STI still have work to do as two tough away games face them. They need at least one win to avoid having to rely on other results. Reports coming soon!

[Robert_296]

goal!

[GazTheDoood]

Goal!
Get in son, and I won the penalty.

Well done the Stig.

[AB-forever]

Finally we're playing better than STI

And Le Quack is back in the NTI goal and got a MOM against STI

Keep'em coming Dodgee

[BP_Doosra]

Typical, I save the game against NTI and then I am dropped from the bench for the next game. Maybe they will need me against USA and Mexico. arguably a tougher draw than for NTI.

[coldkohmew]

Both NTI keepers are heroes!!!

[el sid]

Whatever happened to the STI goalkeepers, Heinrich and Iker ?!
Both of them injured ? If so, then
If not, then

Kutgw !

[DodgeeD]

Originally Posted by el sid

Whatever happened to the STI goalkeepers, Heinrich and Iker ?!
Both of them injured ? If so, then
If not, then

Kutgw !

Originally Posted by DodgeeD

As of September 1st, the following players are injured:
Heinrich Kroeger is out for up to two weeks with a groin strain.
Iker Reina also faces two further weeks out with a hip problem.

There's your answer.

[SJ234]

come on nti

[mikeytwigge]

not in the side yet but i spose its very early days

[Blackcats]

Gonzalez hasn't featured for a very long time for NTI, is he not in the squad or just not being selected?? becuase my form for the merchents always seems good.

[dave safc]

Good updates

Why can't we beat NTI anymore??

[AB-forever]

Originally Posted by dave safc

Why can't we beat NTI anymore??

It's a little something we like to call super keepers

[DodgeeD]

Originally Posted by Blackcats

Gonzalez hasn't featured for a very long time for NTI, is he not in the squad or just not being selected?? becuase my form for the merchents always seems good.

Pablo has been a bit unlucky with a couple of minor injuries, which have meant he either couldn't be selected or couldn't play. Apart from that, just recently Robert Boyle has started to get more games up front and Roberto dos Santos seems to be an automatic choice for the first team... However, now that Arthur White has taken early retirement, and with Gold Member not fully developed yet, I'm sure he'll be back in the side soon.

[el sid]

Poor Poor Arthur White . !

[ssestig]

can still qualify c'mon sti! kutgw.

[Blackcats]

Originally Posted by DodgeeD

Pablo has been a bit unlucky with a couple of minor injuries, which have meant he either couldn't be selected or couldn't play. Apart from that, just recently Robert Boyle has started to get more games up front and Roberto dos Santos seems to be an automatic choice for the first team... However, now that Arthur White has taken early retirement, and with Gold Member not fully developed yet, I'm sure he'll be back in the side soon.

Ok thanks, and has Arthur white really taken reitrement, becuase i seriously missed that one, can't be too old at all

[DodgeeD]

Originally Posted by Blackcats

Ok thanks, and has Arthur white really taken reitrement, becuase i seriously missed that one, can't be too old at all

Forced retirement due to lack of posting by the user who created him. (There were a few others too and they were warned in earlier announcements.)

[Robert_296]

I am now showing the manager why he should have started playing me earlier

[DodgeeD]

2014 North American World Cup Qualifying

Matchday 9

Costa Rica v. Northern Treasure Islands
NTI came into this match knowing a win against the 5th placed team in the group would guarantee a historic first qualificaiton for the World Cup. The Northerners played it safe, going for a possession-based game and slowly building up attacks. It took just 12 minutes to pay off as the Costa Ricans failed to deal with a cross properly and Robert Boyle darted in to steal the ball and give his side the lead. From then on, NTI were in complete control with the home side only managing a couple of shots on target. Boyle looked lively, showing his manger why he should have been picked more regualrly in past seasons as he had two more decent chances. In the end, NTI kept their heads and Costa Rica couldn't find any way back into the match as the Northern Souls booked their place in the World Cup finals for the first time ever with just game to spare.
Final Score: Costa Rica 0, Northern Treasure Islands 1 | NTI Player Ratings & Stats

U.S.A. v. Southern Treasure Islands
STI, meanwhile, were over in Utah knowing that a win would also guarantee their spot in Brazil '14 but a defeat would leave them needing a result against Mexico. The Southerners took an attacking approach to the game, launching several high tempo attacks early on. Unfortunately for them, they didn't have their shooting boots on as they squandered a hatful of first half chances with Captain Gingerbread proving particularly wasteful. The STI manager seemed a bit muddled as he took the strange step of taking off a winger (James) and a centre back (The Stig) and bringing on two full backs (Denton and Ball), thus changing formation completely on 41 minutes. At halftime, he took off topscorer Bobinho to bring on Jason de Mire. Alas, he proved almost as inaccurate with his shooting as Gingerbeard as he missed the atrget several times. STI were made to pay for their missed chances when the Americans took the lead early in the second half through a Landon Donavon strike. STI's attacks continued as they sought a way to level the game but their shooting became increaingly erratic as panic began to seep through the ranks. Their fate was sealed in injury time when the home side hit them on the break with Eddie Johnson providing the finish. STI's qualificaiton campaign would therefore be going down to the last game.
Final Score: U.S.A. 2, Southern Treasure Islands 0 | STI Player Ratings & Stats

Mexico also confirmed their qualification for the finals as they came away from Honduras with a 2-0 win.

That leaves us with an interesting situation: STI face a difficult trip to the Azteca needing a win to secure qualification. If they lose, they will be relying on their rivals NTI preventing the U.S.A. from winning. If they draw, it could all come down to head-to-head results and goal difference. Can the Southerners triumph against the Mexicans? Will NTI still go for a win? Or will they 'slip up' and jepoardise the enemy's chances? All will be revealed in a special report sometime over the weekend....

[blowcrapup]

Is Robert Dawson playing at international level or is he still too young to be realistically picked?

[Robert_296]

Goal and MOTM

[Ridleys]

It's stange how STI are usually off form when Bobinho is..

[AB-forever]

NTI have now qualified for the World Cup with Le Quack in goal again

[coldkohmew]

I will be the penalty keeper.

[el sid]

CAnt believe we have to rely on the damn NTIers !
Go on, Beat the crap put of the Mexicans !

[ssestig]

can't believe the sti national boss. what is he doing? ffs. kutgw though.

[Blackcats]

World cup qualification, oh yeah. Keep it up lads and its ours

[Frazza Pee]

Next update soon?

[JoseRR]

NTI in the World Cup!

[DodgeeD]

Originally Posted by Frazza Pee

Next update soon?

Apologies for the lack of updates but I've been really snowed under at work the last couple of weeks. I'll try to get the rest of the WCQ games and a mid-season player report done at the weekend.

[fmfulhamfan]

World Cup qualifacation. Nice NTI

[valencia]

2 seasons at the same club for me? never!! where's my signing on bonus? ;-)

[valencia]

Originally Posted by valencia

2 seasons at the same club for me? never!! where's my signing on bonus? ;-)

spoke too soon. signed for the bin-dippers :-(

[gus crazy]

will there be any new updates soon

[DodgeeD]

Originally Posted by blowcrapup

Is Robert Dawson playing at international level or is he still too young to be realistically picked?

Not yet but he has two U-20 caps already. I added two players earlier in the game and they were in the squads by the end of their first season. One made hs debut soon after and became a regular (Emilio Peralta in the NTI side) and the other (Miltinho, also NTI) took longer to make his debut and has only been a squad player since. I guess it all depends on how your player's career develops and whether or not anyone in the same position gets injured.

A plethora of updates to come today

[Man City Supporter]

Sorry I haven't been posting lately, but I'm back now!

Still playing at Liverpool, I see.

I think we can beat the Mexicans

[DodgeeD]

2014 North American World Cup Qualifying

Matchday 10

Mexico v. Southern Treasure Islands
U.S.A. v. Northern Treasure Islands
A dramatic end to the North American Qualifiers as the final automatic spot, being chased by STI and the USA, was decided. As the citizens of the Southern Islands sat down to watch their game against table toppers Mexico, they were keeping an eye on the other match, hoping their bitter rivals wouldn't go easy against the Americans. In fact, the Treasure Islands Televison (South) a.k.a. TIT(S), made the unprecedented move of switching feeds to show some of the NTI match live in the Southern territory. A win would secure STI's passage to the finals but if the Americans bettered their result, a play-off with Chile would loom.

In Mexico City, STI were immediately under the kosh as 100,000 football mad fans cheered their team on. Mexico forced Heinrich Kroeger into a couple of early saves. The Southerners then started to gain control, keeping the ball and slowing down the tempo in an attempt to quieten the crowd.

Over in Utah, the USA had made a flying start, taking the lead after just 7 minutes. The move started when Emilio Peralta lost the ball on the right wing and the Americans crossed into the box. Altidore controlled the ball and fired in a low shot with a deflection off Rebel Israel wrong footing keeper Le Quack. NTI soon found themselves 2 down again due to poor defending as this time Cabinboy Pendros failed to clear properly and Altidore was on hand to set up Shea to score. With scores as they stood, the USA were level on points with STI but narrowly behind on goal difference.

News of the Americans' goals filtered through to the STIers in their game and prompted them into action with their first real attack just before the half hour mark. David Sunderland made a run from midfield and won a corner. Joep Beukers swung it in to the near post where, in a moment of amazing skill, Captain Gingerbread jumped and twisted to fire the ball into the net with a bicycle kick. (Following the game, Pele was quoted as saying it was one of the greatest goals ever seen in the Azteca Stadium). Spurred on, the Southerners had two more good chances with Gingerbread forcing Ochoa into a coule of good saves.

Back in Utah, NTI seemed to be just going through the motions as the USA were totally dominant. A third goal seemed inevitable and came courtesy of Altidore again with his shot this time deflecting off Cabinboy Pendros and bouncing past a stranded Le Quack. 3-0 down at halftime and USA were cruising with NTI seemingly out of it. However, with scores as they stood, STI would qualify, though everyone was aware that a goal from Mexico could change all that.

As the second halves began, USA went on the offensive, mindful that goal difference could be a factor. STI, meanwhile, were trying to protect their lead and avoid any risks. It seemed that the Americans' may have made an error of judgement as their attacking play left gaps at the back, which NTI started to exploit. Boyle went close early in the half and again just before the hour mark, winning a corner. Bob McBob, somewhat unorthadoxly, hit it back to Dirtihno on the halfway line, who came forward and hit a deep cross into the box. Spud then rose above the crowd to head the ball into the net and pull one back for NTI.

Back in Mexico City, both sides had chances to score in what was proving to be a well-contested game. Most of STI's chances were falling to Gingerbread with Bobinho strangely quiet. Indeed, he was subbed on 60 mins with Brendanio coming on.

The final ten minutes came with STI a goal up and looking good for that final qualification spot. It was all starting to go wrong for the USA as NTI had taken the initiative and were creating several chances. They turned up the heat on 80 minutes as this time the Americans couldn't clear the ball and Roberto dos Santos capitalised, running into the box and chipping the advancing keeper to make it 3-2.

There was late drama happening in the other game too as the Mexicans offered the Americans some hope as they got back into their game. With 6 minutes to go, Mexico won a free kick, which was fired in hard at the goal. Kroeger produced an athletic save but couldn't hold it and the ball fell to Giovanni dos Santos who levelled the match by tapping into an empty net. That meant STI were still in the final qualification spot but only goal difference was keeping them there. Another goal for Mexico and they would drop down to 4th. STI hearts went into mouths as Mexico had a shot cleared off the line by Craig Healy, another blocked by Eduaddo and a third saved by Kroeger. STI were hanging on by a fine thread.

But it proved that the Mexicans missed chances had no bearing on the outcome as the Americans were caught out by NTI again in the dying minutes. An NTI attack was diverted to a corner. This time McBob went staright for the six yard box and Spud powered the header home, levelling the match at 3-3. That took the fight out of the home side and they would be left pondering what might have been if Mexico had scored and NTI had not. Back in Cove Bay, however, celebrations were underway as STI would be going back to the World Cup for a second time!

In the other match, Honduras finally registered a win, as they beat Costa Rica 3-2, leapfrogging them to 5th in the process.

Final Scores: Mexico 1, Southern Treasure Islands 1 | STI Player Ratings & Stats
U.S.A. 3, Northern Treasure Islands 3 | NTI Player Ratings & Stats
Honduras 3, Costa Rica 2

North American WCQ Third Phase Final Table

[ssestig]

at least we're at the world cup. can progress from there.

[dave safc]

World Cup

Great updates.

[DodgeeD]

December 2013 Update: The Rival Clubs

Cove Bay Pirates
All seems quiet at World's End stadium so far this season with another short-lived European campaign, an early exit from the Cup and steady but unspectacular progress in the league.

The first round of the UEFA Cup saw an interesting match up with Spansih Cup winners Osasuna. The tie attracted interest due to the return of Bobinho to the club where it all began. Unfortunately, neither Cove Bay nor their former player lived up to the hype. Cove Bay won the 1st leg 3-2 at home but Bobinho seemed distracted on his homecoming and produced something of a non-performance being subbed after 55 minutes. The Pirates themselves were in a subdued mood for the retrurn leg and lost 2-0, meaning a 4-3 aggregate defeat.

The Dutch Cup threw up an interesting tie as Cove Bay were drawn against Cove Bay Reserves in Round 2! Cove Bay (the 1st team that is) got the win but made a meal of it needing a last minute goal to knick it 3-2. That was that though as they were knocked out on penalties by 1st Division RBC in the next round.

In the league, a promising start saw the Pirates dispatch champions Ajax 3-1 but since then results have been mixed leaving Cove Bay 5th at the halfway stage on 29 points. That's 9 points behind FC Twente in 4th and just 8 points ahead of AZ in 14th!

As for the youth talent, Robert Dawson made his first team debut in the cup match against RBC but has yet to feature in the league. There was also a late addition to the Cove Bay youth system: Gus Crazy is an AMC the club are said to have high hopes for.


Capital City Merchants FC
The Merchants had a similarly abrupt end to their European campaign as they went out to Newcastle in the UEFA Cup 1st round. A 1-0 home defeat in the first leg was followed by a 2-0 loss at St. James Park. Although STIer Cpatain Gingerbread did not feature amongst the goals, he revelled in his assist which lead to the winner in the first game against the NTI club.

Tough draws in the first two rounds of the Dutch Cup saw the Capital City side face Premier Division opposition. Penalties were needed to get past AZ but a good performance in the next round secured a 3-2 win over PSV. FC Twente are up next in the 4th Round when the competiton resumes in the New Year.

It has been the league, however, where the Merchants' season has really taken off. A series of tight but efficient wins has seen the club move up to 3rd in the table as we enter the New Year, just 6 points behind leaders PSV and 9 points ahead of rivals Cove Bay.

The new boys have yet to make much of an impact on the first team. Gold Member has made 3 sub appearances (1 each in the league, cup and UEFA Cup) managing a goal in the cup tie with PSV. Mikey Twigge has yet to make his debut. He has been called up to the NTI squad, however.

Rivals Clash
There has been one head-to-head in the league so far but it was a bit of a non-event. It clashed with World Cup Qualifying games meaning Jack harrow and Pablo Gonzaléz weren't featuring for the Merchants and football fans on both sides of the Islands were focusing on the fortunes of the national teams. The most boring match of the rivalry so far fizzled out as a 0-0 draw, not that anybody was watching.

League tables up next.

[DodgeeD]

December 2013 Update: European Competitons & Leagues

Here's a look at all the European leagues involving Treasure Island players, along with the group tables from the Champions League and UEFA Cup:

Holland: Premier Division

England: Premier League | Championship

France: Ligue 1

Germany: Bundesliga

Italy: Serie A

Spain: La Liga

Champions League: Groups A-D | Groups E-H

UEFA Cup: Groups A-C | Groups D-F | Groups G-H

[mikeytwigge]

in the NTI squad before making my league debut. I must be NTIs version of walcot

[DodgeeD]

December 2013 Update: Player News

Time for a look at the players' club form as well as the news as rumours ahead of the European transfer window.

The season so far: NTI Players | The season so far: STI Players

Wanted Players

Player           Wanted by
Gwilym J. James  Arsenal
David Sunderland Juventus
Craig Healy      Sevilla
Cabinboy Pendros Juventus
Ben Cee          Spurs, AC Milan
Ramiro           Fulham
Haowan           Juventus*, Lazio*, Man Utd*, Newcastle*
Emilio Peralta   Newcastle* & 9 other clubs
Paul Hart        12 clubs
*These clubs have already made bids.

It seems that Juventus are interested in some Treasure Island talent this time. Also, Paul Hart needs to get a new club during the window if he wants to be in contention for a World Cup place come the end of the season.

Injuries
Just two players out at the moment:
Adam Flash will be out until the end of January with a fractured arm.
Rebel Israel is recovering from a twisted knee and is expected back within two weeks.

Unhappy Players
Ramiro is still looking for a way out of Wigan to a 'bigger club'.
Brendanio wants out of Lazio already as he has not yet been given the first team football he was promised.
Trevor Tobago has also asked for 'clarificaiton over his role' at Stuttgart having made just 4 appearances so far despite being listed as an important first-teamer. He has not expressed any desire to leave yet though.
Bobinho is disappointed that Osasuna are rooted to the bottom of La Liga but is willing to stay at the club for now.

International news up next including the draw for the first round of the World Cup: Which nation has ended up in the 'Group of Death'?

[ssestig]

only 6 games for barca so far. early days in my barca career anyway. kutgw as normal.

[Ridleys]

Osacuna so bad. Get me out of that club

[GazTheDoood]

One of the greatest ever goals, quoted by the legend himself.

[coldkohmew]

In fact, the Treasure Islands Televison (South) a.k.a. TIT(S), made the unprecedented move of switching feeds to show some of the NTI match live in the Southern territory.=)

Still in the dutch cup =)

I got a assist too!!!

Merchants for champions league!!!

[AB-forever]

STI qualified

Le Quack conceeded 3 goals and still not playing that well at club level

Great league performance by The Merchants though

[BP_Doosra]

STI made it through which is good to see and hopefully we can find some form before the World Cup. Brendanio not too happy at Lazio and his stats back that up, especially when compared to his time at Rangers. At least I've got the Champions League as consolation.

[Haowan]

Haowan Juventus*, Lazio*, Man Utd*, Newcastle*

Please Please Please let me join Man Utd, and if not the at least Juventus.
But hopefully not Newcastle. =P
I do have Man Utd as my favoured clubs right?

[dave safc]

Oooh, Juventus want me.

After selling my soul and joining Chelsea, that would be a great move.

Great work as normal.

[ssestig]

juventus want everyone mate.

[el sid]

Seems Giovinco isnt enough for them
Anyway, on topic, great that both nations qualified for the world cup.
Hoping NTI ended up in the group of death though
kutgw !

[Robert_296]

Got a 7 but didn't score. KUTGW dodgee

[DodgeeD]

Originally Posted by el sid

Anyway, on topic, great that both nations qualified for the world cup.
Hoping NTI ended up in the group of death though
kutgw !

Having taken a closer look at the in game World Rankings, I should revise my statement: one of our nations is in the 'Group Of Death' and the other is in the 'Group Of Serious Bodily Harm'

[el sid]

Lol I dont mind if STI are in the group of serious bodily harm tbh

[DodgeeD]

International Update: Friendlies

Both sides rounded off 2013 with a couple of friendlies. As seems to be the norm, neither nation was able to carry its form from competitive matches over as they both registered a loss each. NTI did manage a win, albeit against weak opposition and STI also manged a draw. The results were as follows:

Northern Treasure Islands 0, Israel 2 | NTI Player Ratings & Stats
Northern Treasure Islands 3, Singapore 0 | NTI Player Ratings & Stats

Southern Treasure Islands 1, Venezuela 1 | STI Player Ratings & Stats
Southern Treasure Islands 0, Serbia 3 | STI Player Ratings & Stats

The main news to come out of the friendlies was that the NTI manager handed young Merchants full back Mikey Twigge his debut when he came on as a sub against Israel. Could he be an iclusion for the World Cup squad despite his lack of experience?

An end of year internationl review is coming up with full details on that World Cup draw!

[DodgeeD]

2013 Review: The International Rivalry

It was an eventful year for both nations with World Cup Qualyfying and major tournaments dominating the fixture list. Here's a recap of how each nation fared:

Northern Treasure Islands
Something of a breakthrough year for the Northerners as they went undefeated in all 3 games against their Southern rivals, taking 4 points of them in World Cup Qualifying and, crucially, getting a penalty shoot-out win in the Gold Cup. They made their first appearance in the gold Cup final, narrowly losing out to Mexico and capped a great year by qualyfying for the World Cup or the first time ever.
NTI Results (2013)

The Gold Cup run and second placed finish in the WCQ group meant NTI reached an all-time high of 26th in the world rankings. The home defeat to Israel caused them to drop slightly in December though, leaving them 33rd on the list.
NTI World Rankings Graph

Bob McBob leads the way in terms of caps with 69 to his name. He is joined by Rebel Israel as the only players capped over 60 times. Roberto dos Santos, Ryca Roseau and Adam Flash have all reached their half-century of international games. Ryca Roseau still leads the way in the scoring charts with 26. Roberto dos Santos is just 6 behind on 20 and Robert Boyle has broken into double figures for country after increased oppurtunities over the last year.
NTI All-Time International Caps


Southern Treasure Islands
STI had a busy year, playing an incredible 23 international matches between February and the end of November! They got the job done in World Cup Qualifying, taking the third and final automatic spot in the North American zone. The Southerners also made a good showing at the Confederations Cup, only narrowly missing out to Germany in the final and showing that they can compete with the big boys of world football. There was, however, disappointment as they were unale to dfend their Gold Cup title, a pill made all the more bitter to swallow by the fact that they were dumped out by their hated rivals from the North.
STI Results (2013)

The summer tournaments resulted in STI cracking the top ten of the World Rankings for the first time as they were listed 10th in September. As with NTI, friendly results meant they dropped slightly towards December, finishing the year in 12th.
STI Rankings Graph

Maccaniniho remains the most capped player having now amassed 88 caps, which is pretty amazing for a player who has just turned 24. Craig Healy is on 79 caps with Iker Reina rounding off the top three with 73 appearances. 10 players in total have passed 50 caps with Eduaddo just one shy of the half century. Bobinho remains topscorer with an incredible 44 goals in 59 games. Captain Gingerbread had a good year and now has 36 goals with just a single goal seperating Jason de Mire and Brendanio, who are on 26 and 25 goals respectively.
STI All-Time International Caps


The Year Ahead....
Obviously, the big focus for the year ahead is the World Cup. Both nations have been given tough groups, which are as follows (current World Ranking in brackets):

Group B
Argentina (4)
Czech Republic (15)
Northern Treasure Islands (33)
Saudi Arabia (20)

And that's not even the Group Of Death (TM)! This is:

Group G
Chile (18)
England (6)
Holland (7)
Southern Treasure Islands (12)

Both nations face a tough challenge in getting out of their groups. Here's the draw in full:
World Cup 2014 Groups A-D
World Cup 2014 Groups E-H

I'll get the game up to the World Cup as quickly as I can but in the meantime, predictions please!

[McTavish]

All in all a good season for NTI, finally asserting our superiority over those dirty Southerners! Good to see our world ranking on the rise too, hopefully our reputation will go up too so we can start winning some friendlies!

Peralta on the move after a superb season at LOSC, looks like he's spoiled for choice but will choose a club in the CL.

As for the World Cup, I reckon NTI will win that group.... joint top with Argentina, 7 points each
STI will crash out without scoring a goal.

Any chance we can see the season' s and/or all time best XI?

Superb updates as usual, kutgw DD!

[mikeytwigge]

one apearence of the subs and 1 game sat on the sub bench all before making my appearence for the club is great. I predict we will go out in the group stages if i dont get called up but quarter finals if i do

[coldkohmew]

WE (NTI) can made it to the quarters with a bit of luck.

[el sid]

Not a good group for STI, but I m sure we ll make into the next round at the expense of England

[Robert_296]

Got 2 goals against Singapore but was subbed off before HT against Israel. Third top scorer for NTI, if only I'd have started playing lots from the start...

[pjtopor]

Hope Rebel recovers from that knee injury in time to be sold in January! Where are my sell-on fees?!

[coldkohmew]

Seems like jack harrow will start the first game,=)

[Whoopy D]

That is a tough tough group for STI , we're gonna need a win against Holland or England to have any chance of going through.

Hopefully the manager will give my guy a chance but history would suggest that Ramiro will feature very little if at all.

On the plus side NTI don't exactly have an easy group

[AB-forever]

Le Quack out of the squad for the friendlies and he's way down the caps list, with only 32

NTI only lost 3 games in 2013

NTI will progress from the group, beating the Czech Republic while STI will crash and burn

[GazTheDoood]

STI can qualify from that group, but we need to beat Chile.
Gingerbread has had a good year, still a fair but behind Bobinho, but at least we've plenty of time left.

How old are the players nowadays Dodgee?

[ssestig]

c'mon sti. we can qualify for the knock-out stages if we can get something out of the english and dutch games. chile should be slightly easier. kutgw as always.

[SJ234]

still leading the caps get in

[DodgeeD]

January 2014 Transfer Window Update

Originally Posted by DodgeeD

December 2013 Update: Player News

Wanted Players

Player           Wanted by
Gwilym J. James  Arsenal
David Sunderland Juventus
Craig Healy      Sevilla
Cabinboy Pendros Juventus
Ben Cee          Spurs, AC Milan
Ramiro           Fulham
Haowan           Juventus*, Lazio*, Man Utd*, Newcastle*
Emilio Peralta   Newcastle* & 9 other clubs
Paul Hart        12 clubs
*These clubs have already made bids.

It seems that Juventus are interested in some Treasure Island talent this time. Also, Paul Hart needs to get a new club during the window if he wants to be in contention for a World Cup place come the end of the season.

Despite all the interest at the start of the transfer window, there was very little activity involving Treasure Islander players. Haowan was the subject of several bids but all were rejected by Aston Villa, leaving the player extremely unhappy and demanding a transfer this summer. Emilio Peralta was in a similar situation as Lille stated the midfielder was not for sale and refused to sell. Peralta was more patient though, just saying he was 'flattered by the interest' without becoming unsettled.

In the end, only one player moved to a new club and he wasn't even on the list above! Jack Harrow stunned Merchants fans as he left the club for a second time, joining Sunderland in an 8mil deal worth 51k p/w. He said he was hoping to 'rise to the challenge of playing for such an illustrious club'. He certainly has a challenge on his hands as Sunderland find themselves battling against relegation from the Premier League.

All was quiet during the transfer window for Paul Hart, who, despite several clubs declaring inetrest, remains without employment. His situation would eventually be resolved at the end of February when he signed for German lower league side Saarbrucken. Time to sack the agent maybe?

[DodgeeD]

International Update: Spring 2014 Friendlies

Both nations were on the road for their only friendly matches before the World Cup. NTI travelled to Japan and then took on Venezuela while STI faced Bolivia and Caribbean minnows Sint Maarten. Results were as follows:

Japan 3, Northern Treasure Islands 0 | NTI Player Ratings & Stats
Venezeula 2, Northern Treasure Islands 0 | NTI Player Ratings & Stats

Bolivia 2, Southern Treasure Islands 3 | STI Player Ratings & Stats
Sint Maarten 0, Southern Treasure Islands 4 | STI Player Ratings & Stats

A disappointing pair of results for NTI then with Rebel Israel's performance against Venezuala the only positive as he prevented the scoreline from being much worse. STI, on the other hand, picked up two decent wins with Bobinho recapturing his international form as he hit a hat-trick in both matches. Two other events of note: Gus Crazy played the whole match aginst Bolivia, winning his first cap and, in the same game, an injury to David Sunderland (twisted knee) paved the way for Robert Dawson to also come on for his debut. Good timing for first caps, just ahead of the World Cup!

End of season league updates to come when I get the chance including:
Which Treasure Islander scored the only goal to help his team win a European trophy?
Who had the bittersweet mix of winning an FA Cup medal and getting relegated in the space of a week?
Which of the rival clubs picked up its first piece of silverware?

[AB-forever]

Le Quack conceded 3 goals in 69 minutes against Japan and was then dropped for the Venezuela game

[mikeytwigge]

1 unused substitute. Not bad could do with my club playing me though

[coldkohmew]

Jack harrow is the one to be best keeper in the world cup!!!

Merchants to get the dutch cup or Division!!!

[Robert_296]

Terrible results for us there

[Haowan]

DARN IT
stupid Aston Villa
I want Man Utd =(

[Ridleys]

Bobinho back to his best

6 goals in 2 games

[DodgeeD]

Your questions answered:

Originally Posted by McTavish

Peralta on the move after a superb season at LOSC, looks like he's spoiled for choice but will choose a club in the CL.

Any chance we can see the season' s and/or all time best XI?

Although he didn't move in January, Peralta's fine form continued up to the end of the season as you will see in the end of season updates. A lot of clubs are still iinterested and a summer move looks highly likely.

As for the Best XIs, fıor some bizarre reason none of the CONCACAF nations have them in their histories. Shame that as it would be good to compare the current and all time Best teams.

Originally Posted by Haowan

I do have Man Utd as my favoured clubs right?

Indeed you do. Haowan will be on the move as soon as the summer window opens but all I can say for now is it's not to Man Utd.

Originally Posted by GazTheDoood

How old are the players nowadays Dodgee?

The players who originally signed up are now all aged 24 to 26, depending on the starting age selected so some are just starting to reach their peak.

[Walcott\'s Wonderkids]

Despite Trevor Tobago moving to Stuttgart, it seems his No. of appearances haven't improved vastly!

Still no more int caps as well.

Just hope I get a call up to the WC squad!

KUTGW

[el sid]

A substitute appearance for Heinrich the goal keeper with a rating of 8
I cant remember the last time i got an International cap !
kutgw DodgeeD !

[Blackcats]

Wow we are awfull in friendlies aren't we

[dave safc]

Oh no, injured before the World Cup

How long am I out?!?!

Keep up the good work!

[gus crazy]

i am both happy and hounoured to represent the southern treasure islands and i hope that is just the start of what hopefuly could be an amazing international career. how are the pirates doing in the dutch leagues. kutgw

[ssestig]

Originally Posted by DodgeeD

[B][U]

End of season league updates to come when I get the chance including:
Which Treasure Islander scored the only goal to help his team win a European trophy?
Who had the bittersweet mix of winning an FA Cup medal and getting relegated in the space of a week?
Which of the rival clubs picked up its first piece of silverware?

i scored the only goal to win the european trophy and the pirates won silverware.

[McTavish]

Lies.

Eduaddo scored the only goal as Man Utd won the CL. Jack Harrow got a runners up medal in the FA cup with Sunderland, who were relegated. And Merchants won the Dutch Cup!

[DodgeeD]

Originally Posted by ssestig

i scored the only goal to win the european trophy and the pirates won silverware.

Originally Posted by McTavish

Lies.

Eduaddo scored the only goal as Man Utd won the CL. Jack Harrow got a runners up medal in the FA cup with Sunderland, who were relegated. And Merchants won the Dutch Cup!

Hmmm. Between you, you've got one right (one and a half maybe)

[blowcrapup]

Yey made my debut. How old am I? (Robert Dawson)

[DodgeeD]

Originally Posted by blowcrapup

Yey made my debut. How old am I? (Robert Dawson)

Your player is 18 but will turn 19 over the summer. Maybe you'll be celebrating it at the World Cup!

End of season competiton round-up on the way tonight.

[DodgeeD]

2013/14 Season Review: The Club Rivalry

There was one more rivals clash in the Dutch league when Cove Bay headed north to take on Merchants at the Capital City stadium. Pablo Gonzaléz was the only player from either side of the Islands to be involved in the match and he opened the scoring on 16 minutes. The Merchants soon doubled their lead and seemed to be cruising until a dubious penalty was awarded to the Pirates and converted to make it 2-1 going into the break. Cove Bay had the better of the game in the second half but couldn't get that vital equalising goal and ended up losing out.
Final Score: Capital City Merchants 2, Cove Bay Pirates 1

The Merchants are undefeated then in both matches aginst their rivals this season, which means the head-to-head results table now looks very even indeed. In fact, a 1-0 win for the MErchants in the next clash will bring them exactly level!

And now a more in depth look at each team:

Cove Bay Pirates
The Pirates had a terrible start to the New Year, picking up a mere 5 points in ten games in January and February. Throughout March, their form improved but was still iconsistent with a win one weekend being followed by a defeat the next. Heading into the last few games, Cove Bay were in danger of missing out on the European Places Play-Offs but a good run of 4 wins in the last 5 matches put them safely into 7th place with youngster Robert Dawson a revelation in those matches, scoring twice. In the European Play-Offs, wins against FC Groningen and AZ were enough to secure a return to the UEFA Cup for next season.

Capital City Merchants
Up in Capital City, the was great exctement going into the second part of the season as the Merchants were keeping pace with Ajax and PSV at the top and were still in the hunt for the cup. Their good league form continued as they only suffered three defeats between January andthe end of the regular season. Unfortunately, one of those defeats was to Ajax and a goaless draw at home to PSV with 4 games to go effectively killed their title bid. Nevertheless, the Merchants did very well to challenge and finish in a highest-ever position of 3rd. In the European Play-Offs, the Capital City side breezed past Heinrich Kroeger's FC Twente side 6-3 on aggregate in the first round to face PSV for the right to participate in the Chapions League next season. Alas, the experience of PSV was to prove too much as the Merchants lost both games 2-0, leading to a 4-0 aggregate defeat.

In the cup, Capital City Merchants went on a great run, dispatching a number of tough opponents startig with a penalty shoot-out win over AZ and a hard-earned victory against PSV in the early rounds. Once the cup resumed in the New Year, they defeated FC Twente, NEC and ADO Den Haag to reach the final for the first time ever! Their opponents there were Ajax, who had been crowned champions the week before and were looking to complete the double. It seemed the Merchants would be overwhelmed as Ajax took the lead after just two minutes and dominated the early play. However, it seemed the Merchants were just feeling the pressure of a first final apperance a bit and once they settled down, they started to take control. Ajax were pegged back for most of the game but the Merchants couldn't find a way through. That is until Pablo Gonzaléz was presented with a great chance with 10 minutes left on the clock as he curled a shot past the keeper from the edge of the area. That took the game to extra time and it appeared as though the game would be settled by penalties. That was not to be as Merchants new boy Issar Dia was cynically hacked down in the box in the dying seconds of the match and had to go off injured. The referee was right there to award the penalty, which Diego Biseswar calmly converted to hand the Merchants their first ever trophy as they won the Dutch Cup 2-1!

An impressive season for the Merchants then, who will be looking to build on their cup success and strong league finish next season. Cove Bay have some catching up to do but both sides will be happy to be back in the UEFA Cup and will be looking for improved results next time.

[DodgeeD]

2013/14 End Of Season Review: European and Domestic Competitons

Now for a round up of the leagues and cup competitons involving our players:

Champions League Final
This was an all English affair, but with plenty of interest for Treasure Islanders, as Liverpool (featuring STI full backs Nathaniel Ball and Rich Denton as well as NTI centre back Spud) took on Arsenal (with Bob McBob of NTI). The match went all the way to penalties with Ball scoring the opening penalty for Liverpool. With Arsenal missing three spot kicks, it didn't even matter that Spud blazed his effort over the bar as Liverpool won the shoot-out 3-1.
Liverpool 1, Arsenal 1 (a.e.t. Liverpool win 3-1 on penalties)

UEFA Cup Final
This was also an all English match up with a strong Treasure Island presence. Manchester United (Cabinboy Pendros and Eduaddo) and Newcastle (Ben Cee, Wrighty and Captain Gingerbeard) were the participants and it was to be settled by a single goal. That was scored right at the end of the first half by STI star Captain Gingerbread, who ran onto a long punt from the keeper, catching the Man Utd defence by surprise, and lobbing the ball into the net.
Newcastle 1, Manchester United 0

Holland
As already stated, Ajax were crowned champions and the Merchants and Cove Bay made it into the UEFA Cup for next season. they will be joined by Heinrich Kroeger and FC Twente, who also got into the UEFA Cup through the play-offs.
Dutch Premier Division Final Table

Just once more for the Merchants fans, here's the Dutch Cup final.

England
Quite a bizzare season in England as West Ham won the title and Chelsea narrowly avoided relegation! Humiliation for two NTI players though as they were relegated. The January arrival of Jack Harrow could not prevent Sunderland from going down and a poor second half of the season meant Middlesborough were relgated also, marking the second time Gregory Le Quack has suffered relegation in his career so far. (Interestingly, as Iker Reina was relegated with Stuttgart in Germany a couple of season ago, Heinrich Kroeger is now the only goalkeeper in the sign-up not to have been relegated ).
Premier League Final Table

In the Championship, Iker Reina was unlucky as Reading missed out on automatic promotion by 4 points and then lost a sudden death penalty shoot-out in the play-off final. That means, depending on summer transfers, we could see three Treasure Island goalkeepers playing their trade in the Championship next season!
Championship Final Table

Chelsea's terrible season in the league was slightly made up for by a victory over Man City in the League Cup final with both David Sunderland and Ryca Roseau on the winning side.
League Cup Final

The FA Cup final featured two teams from the wrong end of the table as 14th placed Leicester took on Middlesborough, whose relegation from the Premier League had been confirmed just the week before. It was an evenly matched contest which went all the way to extra time with Middlesborough proving the stronger in the end as they won 2-1. That means Gregory Le Quack picks up the first medal of his career and suffers relegation in the same season.
FA Cup Final

France
Ligue 1 is not as popular as it once was with Treasure Islanders as just two players remain their. Roberto dos Santos had a good season a PSG but his goals were not enough to stop Lyon from storming to the title. Still, he will play Champions League football next season should he stay put. Emilio Peralta ran a one man show at LOSC but couldn't carry his team into the European qualificaiton spots. He will have to move if he wants to compete at a higher level next season.
Ligue 1 Final Table

Germany
Another destination not visited so often by our players these days with just Adam Flash and Miltinho at Bayern and Trevor Tobago struggling to get a game at Stuttgart (Paul Hart is now in Germany of course but in the lower leagues). It was the boys at Bayern who had the best season as they won the title. Stuttgart may regret leaving their NTI star on the bench as they missed out on the European place by just one point.
Budesliga Final Table

Italy
There are plenty of Treasure Islanders in Serie A these days and Maccaniniho had the most succesful season, helping Juventus to second place. Craig Healy featured regularly as Fiorentina earned a UEFA Cup spot but there will be no Eurpean football next term for the players at Lazio or Inter.
Serie A Final Table

Spain
Real Madrid won the Spanish title but did it without making much use of former Ajax star Robert Boyle, who spent a tough first season at Madrid either bench warming or getting to know the nurses in the treatment room. Barcelona, current home to unlikely defensive partners Rebel Israel (that's right - he still hasn't moved! ) and The Stig struggled to 8th place while Bobinho finally got his shooting boots back on and helped Osasuna beat the drop.
La Liga Final Table

In a season of disappointment, Barcelona also lost out in the Spanish Cup final as Zaragoza beat them 3-1. Only runners-up medals for rivals Rebel Israel and The Stig then.
Spanish Cup Final


That's all I've got time for today. I'll try to post each player's end of season profile tomorrow.

[ssestig]

we only struggled due to the fact i partner a nti centre-back at barca. i always have to mark both forwards.

[JoseRR]

At least Dos Santos will be playing in the Champions League next year. Also nice to see the Merchants get one over on the Pirates!

[coldkohmew]

Hope i can bring Sundenland back up!!! =)

Merchants rule!

[el sid]

loads happening for heinrich :
1.) conceded 6 goals in 2 games for fc twente against capital city
2.) qualified for UEFA cup
3.) "Heinrich Kroeger is now the only goalkeeper in the sign-up not to have been relegated" haha, thats quite a record

kutgw mate !

[Haowan]

Wheres Haowan now and how is he doing?
KUTGW!

[Blackcats]

Goal in the cup final, which we won
KUTGW

[mikeytwigge]

hopefully i got called up to the national team this summer