Netherlands 5-1 Germany

 The grey skies were offset by the lively music at Ambrit Stadium today as Germany suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of the Dutch Masters.

The Netherlands began well; in the first minutes, Mattia was forced into a dangerous header that was nearly an own-goal; Anto shot over; then a nice passing move from Lorenzo to Francesco to Vittorio saw Holland go 1-0 up. Two minutes later, Francesco supplied another assist and Lorenzo put them 2-0 up. Lorenzo then went on a good run down the left but shot over. Germany's only decent attempt came when Remy passed to Daniele but Giovanni made a great save from the shot.

Lorenzo scored a third immediately after half time. Ale came on and pulled one goal back when Daniele passed to Mattia and his cross found Ale in the middle. But the Netherlands closed out the game with a well-taken goal from Francesco and the last of Lorenzo's hat-trick goals.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Francesco 6, Lorenzo 5, Remy 4, Vittorio 2, Aron 2, Giovanni 2, Adrian 1, Ruben 1, Antonio 1, Ben 1, Daniele B 1, Ale 1, Mattia 1

ACLI league: Ambrit 10-2 Forte Bravetta

 It was a pleasant day at the Ambrit fortress. A relaxing 10-2 win breaks the three-game losing streak, raising morale, with hopes of reclaiming our first place spot. Down to nine men, Ambrit would need to step up and deliver superior performances to make up for the empty bench. Ambrit cruised to 1-0 with an easy tap-in by Mattia, soon doubled up by a nicely placed shot by Alberto. Two early goals in and the Ambrit roster seemed more motivated than ever. Giorgio, Albi (twice more), Santiago, Bernardo, Pedro, Zach, and Theodor added to the score-sheet, none but Jonah missing out. Forte Bravetta never gave up though, with them slotting in two compensation goals.

On top of his game today

.

Germany 1 - 2 Brazil

In a tense game at Ambrit Stadium today, Santiago tipped the balance with a beautifully-struck shot from the right wing that flew past the goalkeeper.

It was Germany who had taken the lead though when Daniele skipped past two defenders to score. Mattia was always dangerous too; fast and brave but his shooting let him down. Ale was in and out of the game but always dangerous when in possession: his first shot struck the post and he made a good dribbling run down the centre but was caught by Santiago just as he was winding up for a shot. Then, in the dying moments of the first period, Brazil equalised when Marco's shot was saved by Adrian but the rebound fell to Louis.

Period 2 was quiet. Shots from Marco at one end and Ale at the other and one outstanding save by Adrian.

In period 3, Mattia was at it again: making chances but not finishing. Brazil claimed to have taken the lead when Santiago's throw was touched by Theo on its way into the goal, but the VAR replays showed that the ball had already crossed the line. But there was no arguing about Santiago's winning goal.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Ale 4, Daniele B 4, Santiago 4, Theo 3, Louis 2, Adrian 2, Marco 2, Daniel 2, Mattia 2, Adam 1, Jonah 1, Harshjot 1

YELLOW: Louis & Marco

RECUPERO!!!! Tomorrow (Wed 23 March): BRAZIL - GERMANY

Belgium 1-0 Spain

 After his recent heroics, the absence of Seb from Spain's line-up was a demoralising blow and, with Daniele P out of action too, Maya was drafted in to bolster the defence. Belgium too were short-handed and ace goalkeeper Myla helped out. Early on Gianmarco made a good run on the right, played a great ball across the area but Emilio shot wide. The vocal crowd was roaring for a penalty a while later but the referee waved away all appeals. As Belgium increased the frequency of their attacks, Matteo was a rock in defence, using head, foot, chest to clear everything: he managed some good runs and some good passes too. 

In the second half, shots from Adriano and Emilio were wide. Belgium put some good moves together; one move involved Alberto to Bertie to Alberto to Carl but the final shot was high. A goal eventually came. Giorgio fired a rocket, Adriano headed it bravely and the ball fell to Bertie who buried the shot.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Matteo 5, Trym 2, Maya 2, Leo 2 Alberto 2, Adriano 2, Ralf 2,  Carlo 2, Cameron 1, Oliver 1, Bertie 1, Emilio 1, Gianmarco 1,  Hugo 1, Giorgio 1,  Tommaso 1 Myla 1

Bolivia 1-1 Mexico

A packed Ambrit stadium was treated to a hard fought and close game between Bolivia and Mexico. The Bolivians had to face the American derby without their captain, who was ably substituted at the last second by Adriana,  they were also handicapped at the start of the game as Bianca, one of the pillars of their defence was not able to start the game. The Mexicans who arrived in full strength seemed ready to take the match by storm but they were put on the back foot as the combination of Camila and Aurora dominated the middle of the pitch for Bolivia , they fought hard for the ball and their passing and movement made it very difficult for the Mexicans to get a foot in the game. However, solid defending from Freydis, Clara and Ella along with the steady reassurance of Myla in goal meant that for all their pressure, La Verde could not break the deadlock.

The second period started with a resurgence from the Central Americans, they pushed forward with good interplay between Emma and Clara with Sara making constant dangerous runs behind the defence. In the end, this pressure paid off when Sara in a burst of dazzling solo skill was able to cut through the defence and put the ball past Olivia to put Mexico 1 up.

Their lead was not to last though, the response from Bolivia was immediate and sustained. Buoyed by the return of Bianca at the back, Camila and Vittoria were able to once again push forward and in the end Aurora put an excellent shot past Myla to level the game. The final period of the game was a hard fought struggle for supremacy with neither side able to gain ascendancy and in the end the match finished 1-1.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Sara 5, Camila 4, Aurora 4, Vittoria 3, Emma 3, Myla 2, Clara 1, Bianca 1, Lavinia 1

Brazil 0-0 Netherlands

 With their expensive acquisition from the January transfer window restricted to the sidelines because of a recent red card, Brazil were clearly set up in defensive mode today and will be delighted with a valuable point. The Dutch players looked a little rusty at the start; twice Lorenzo was caught on the back foot when passes from Vittorio and Ben looked to set him up for a shot. He did get two shots away in the first period but neither troubled Daniel unduly.

The best chance of the second period fell to Vittorio early on at the far post, but his shot was timid and saved by Louis. Now Marco's running and effort for the Brazilian midfield began to pay off. He kept the Dutch defence occupied and shot over the bar once, and then wide.

Antonio added some spark to the Dutch team in period 3 and, together with Vittorio created some good chances, but no goals. One good chance fell to Vittorio but Alex made a great block.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Louis 4, Marco 3, Michael 3, Vittorio 3, Nicholas 2, Bernardo 2, Giovanni 2, Jonah, Lorenzo, Antonio 2, Daniel 2, Ben, Alex, Sam

ANSPI league (200-2010): Ambrit 2-2 Sam89

 Ambrit picked up another hard-earned point after a closely-fought encounter at Ambrit Stadium today against an opposing team that improved as the game went on. All in all, a fair result.

In the first period, Ambrit's organisation and their fierce tackling in midfield - led by an in-form Aurora - saw them push their opponents back for most of the period and the reward came when Ben poked a shot home from 20 meters out with a well-aimed strike into the bottom corner.

A tiger in midfield today!

In the second period, Sam89 poured forward, but Trym and Giulio played very well in defense today and kept them out; Ambrit went in for the second break still leading 1-0.

In period 3, Diego continued to harass the Sam defence. Twice he came close - once with a header, then with a shot - before he finally did add a second goal for Ambrit with a fantastic header past a helpless goalkeeper. But now Sam89 decided it was 'all-or-nothing' and they came forward with abandon. They scored first with a well-disguised shot from outside the area that sent Vittorio the wrong way, and then they equalised when hesitancy in the Ambrit defence opened the door. 

TEAM: Vittorio, Trym, Giulio, Ben, Sara, Aurora, Ruben, Oliver, Diego, Gabriele.

ACLI league (2007/2008): Ambrit 4-4 Miracoli

 Miracoli indeed! The biggest miracle today was how the visitors escaped with a point after a game dominated by Ambrit, who managed to return today to something like their best form.

After dominating the early exchanges, with Pedro shooting wide off an Ale assist and Zach unable to finish a move involving Pedro and Ale in the build-up, Miracoli broke away and scored. The equaliser wasn't long coming though - Ale finishing, after a good pass from Pedro. The game was finely balanced now, but the balance was tipped in the visitors' favour by an Ambrit team that stood off the ball and waited for things to happen rather than taking the game by the scruff of the neck. Two quick goals stunned the Ambrit boys and the atmosphere was tense at half-time.

On target - three goals today!

In the second half, Ambrit's attacking play improved. Santi was now raiding on the left, Emilio on the right and it was Santi's pass that set up Pedro for the next goal: 2-3. Ambrit now had the momentum and should have equalised when the ball was pinging around in a crazy goal-mouth scramble. Ambrit then equalised and went ahead in the space of two minutes, both goals from Ale. He forced one over the line with his head and banged the other in with a left-foot drive. Suddenly the three points were within our grasp but, with just one minute to play, Miracoli ha fatto il miracolo. From a corner on the right, the ball was cleared to the edge of the penalty area and the Miracoli captain scored with an incredibe bicycle kick from the edge of the area. Niente da fare.

Argentina 2-2 Spain

 A packed Ambrit Stadium was treated to the best match of the tournament so far as Spain came from behind to grab a well deserved point from a stunned Argentina.

The first action of the game said a lot about what would follow: Pedro, who played very well today, found space for a shot but Seb made a fine save... the first of many saves from Seb, who left the arena to thunderous applause after an paralleled display of goalkeeping prowess. However, he was beaten shortly afterwards when Dylan threaded a precise pass to Pedro who found the right angle this time. Shortly afterwards, it was those two again... another Pedro shot, another fantastic save from Seb. And then Argentina went 2-0 up. Pedro was involved again, this time slipping an assist to Adam who shot immediately and gave Seb no chance.

In the second period, nothing much changed. Argentina continued to dominate but Seb kept Spain in the game. Two more show-stopping interventions - one from Adam at the start of period 2, another from Zach at the end.

Spain were still trailing 0-2 as period 3 began, but the turning point was supplied by Cameron. He took possession in midfield and, surrounded by three defenders, managed to find Gianmarco on the right with a perfect pass. Gianmarco controlled, shot, scored! Game on!! Gianmarco then had another chance soon after as Argentina struggled to recover their momentum, but Lucas saved well. Now Spain were in control and Daniele P was making a difference in midfield. And what a difference! Receiving the ball just in from the half-way line, he spotted Lucas out of position and launched a well-judged lob over his head and into the back of the net. 2-2!

Argentina woke up again and attacked desperately for the last minutes, but Seb made another pair of saves and Spain celebrated a fine comeback as Argentina wondered where it had all gone wrong.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Seb 8, Pedro 4, Dylan 3, Hugo 3, Emilio 2, Cameron 2, Daniele P 2, Gianmarco 1, Adam 1, Zach 1, Ralf 1

Mexico 1-0 Australia

 Il Messico 🇲🇽  continua la sua cavalcata trionfale verso la finale, con una vittoria di misura sull'Australia  🇦🇺 combattiva ma poco pericolosa e rimane in testa a punteggio pieno. Il mix di esperienza (Emma), tecnica (Sara) entusiasmo (Clara/Ella) e solidità difensiva (Myla) ha reso imbattibile finora questa squadra, che con l'innesto di Freydis sembra davvero imperforabile.

L'Australia, con l'infortunata Athena ben sostituita da Adriana, ha giocato a sprazzi, senza un'organizzazione precisa e un punto di riferimento in attacco. In porta Martina ha salvato il salvabile, arrendendosi solo al tiro imparabile di Sara verso la fine del primo tempo.

Ancora tutta da giocare la corsa al secondo posto, anche se - con questa sconfitta - per l'Australia si fa veramente molto dura...

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Sara 3, Emma 2, Martina 2, Isabel 2, Adriana 1, Clara 2, Ella K 2, Abby 1.

Germany 6-1 Italy

 Una sconfitta dura, di quelle che abbatte il morale, per l'Italia, ancora a secco di punti, per merito di un'ottima Germania, molto tecnica, veloce e ben organizzata. 

Eppure qualcosa si può dire sulle ragazze che, a parte l'eccezionale prova di Myla tra i pali e di Maya in difesa, hanno dato la sensazione di non saper essere aggressive, di perdere facilmente la posizione e di non averci provato davvero fino in fondo. Coraggio! Se non ci credete voi??!!!

Tra i Tedeschi ottime le prestazioni di tanti, da Theo in difesa a Daniele in attacco, da Alessandro a Mattia in centrocampo: difficile opporsi alla squadra favorita per la vittoria finale, al gioco veloce con palla a terra. Bravi! Queste partite dovrebbero insegnarvi che per giocare bene a calcio - sport DI SQUADRA - serve passare spesso e non tenere troppo il pallone.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Myla 4, Maya 3, Mattia 3, Theo 3, Daniele B 3, Ale 3, Alice 1.

Monteverde 4-2 Ambrit

Some games are won, some games are lost and some games - like this one - are just thrown away. Having survived some early pressure, Ambrit took hold of the game and Bernardo shot just over the bar. Mattia then hit the post with a good header off a Giorgio corner and Ambrit took the lead when another corner from Giorgio found its way into the back of the net. A touch of luck, but a deserved lead. Monteverde almost equalised immediately but Santiago made a great save... but then the Monteverde equaliser came almost immediately. Before half time though, a long ball was cleverly controlled by Zach, who drew two defenders and set Mattia up for an accurate strike into the corner: 2-1 at half-time.

Gave the opposition defence no peace
in the first half

The second half was another story. Monteverde took over and almost equalised but Giorgio made a miraculous clearance off the line (Giorgio had another great game today). Bernardo cleared another one off the line: Monteverde were getting closer and closer! They did equalise when a lack of communication in the Ambrit defence allowed the ball through to the striker. He finished clinically and then another mistake in defence - a ball that could have been cleared three times but was allowed to bounce around the penalty area - put the home side 3-2 ahead. Ambrit's desperate attempts to find an equaliser left them open to the counter attack, and the final goal sealed a black period for Ambrit, taking just one point from a possible 9.

And a HUGE thank you to all the supporters who turned up today!

TEAM: Santiago, Carlo, Theo, Giorgio, Bernardo, Emilio, Mattia, Zach, Bertie, Jonah

Argentina 2-0 Belgium

Zach's throw-in was the key to Argentina's victory today. In the first period, he found Dylan who guided the ball in with a cheeky back-heel to make it 1-0 and then he found Pedro's head to make it 2-0. For Belgium, Giorgio fired in some good shots but Lucas was equal to everything, even if some sections of the crowd insisted that the ball had crossed the line on one occasion as Lucas swept it out. Leo's wild clearance awarded a penalty to Argentina but Ben pulled the kick wide.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Zach 4, Giorgio 3, Dylan 3, Rocco 2, Cosimo 2, Leo 2, Pedro 2, Lucas 2, Ben 1, Tiago 1, Diego 1, Vincent 1, Gabriele 1, Carlo 1, Bertie 1, Adam 1

Mexico 4-0 Australia

 L'Australia 🇦🇺  sbaglia completamente formazione e approccio alla gara, regalando al Messico 🇲🇽 un vantaggio iniziale che diventa poi irrecuperabile. Brava la formazione capitanata da Myla a sfruttare le occasioni e a non perdere compattezza, puntando forte su una Sara incontenibile, ormai lanciata in cima a tutte le classifiche, e alla velocità di Emma e Clara.

La squadra di Athena ha via via perso brillantezza e non ha più creduto nella rimonta, senza lo spirito combattivo di Isabel - infortunata - e con poca organizzazione in campo. Non tutto è perduto per l'Australia, mentre il Messico viaggia fortissimo verso la finale.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Sara 6, Emma 3, Alice 2, Athena 2, Myla 2, Abby 2, Martina 1, Clara 1.

Borgo Palidoro 3-1 Ambrit

 The struggle for first place continues with Palidoro winning this return match after Ambrit had triumphed earlier in the year by 4-3. Ambrit's recent results are now coming back to haunt them. After a 100% record before Christmas, two defeats and a draw since then means that the title race is wide open.

Last night's match was a tough one indeed, on a very difficult pitch. Not only for the loose gravel surface, but also for the goals that were smaller than usual and a pitch that was narrow. Still, we did have some early chances and, had Santiago's shot after just 3' gone in rather than bouncing back from the bar, things might have been different. Instead, Palidoro began to gain ground and push us back further and further. Theo was forced into a series of saves and then Palidoro scored from a good header off a corner on the left. Ambrit were now struggling, playing on the break, but Vittorio did get a good shot in from distance that shaved the post. Just before half-time, Palidoro won possession close to goal and hammered home a second.

Snuffed out the opposition's main threat

Things looked bleak, but Ambrit showed a very good reaction in the second half. Giorgio scored a fantastic goal, cutting in from the left and unleashing an unstoppable shot to make it 2-1. Jonah came on and neutralised Palidoro's best player; Mattia and Emilio added some lucidity and some better passing to Ambrit's attacking moves. But the clock was running down and, apart from a couple of half-chances, Ambrit's efforts were fruitless. Palidoro added a late third goal.

Argentina 2 - 0 Italy

 Ancora una prestazione generosa per le azzurre, ancora una sconfitta.

Le ragazze hanno avuto un ottimo atteggiamento in campo, almeno fino al secondo gol, ma hanno faticato a trovare la posizione in campo e non sono riuscite a sfruttare le opportunità (poche) concesse dai sudamericani. L’Argentina da parte sua ha offerto una prestazione solida, con le idee chiare e con qualche vezzo di troppo. Sono bastati due tiri da fuori, uno di Adam e l'altro di Zach, per sistemare il punteggio finale e assicurarsi i tre punti.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS:

Camila 5, Sara 5, Maya 4, Dylan 3, Zac 3, Adam 2, Pedro 1, Bianca 1, Carolina 1, Myla 1.

Ambrit 4-4 Vigna

 At a crucial point in the season, is the Ambrit machine beginning to creak? Two more points dropped and for long periods tonight, the signs weren't good: careless passing, not enough running and, worst of all, half-hearted tackling. With Wednesday's important head-to-head match in Palidoro only 48 hours away, things need to change rapidly!

Giorgio was lively at the start and hit the bar with an early shot. Pedro shot wide after some good combinations with Mattia on the left and Giorgio put Ambrit ahead from a free-kick aftre 15'. But Vigna Pia equalised from a similar situation minutes later and the sides went in 1-1 at the break. Santiago played very well in goal and came out to sweep away dangerous attacks more than once.

Not everyone was below par tonight

In the second half, Mattia scored from a Santiago assist and then another Mattia shot brought a third goal when it deflected in off the defender. Vigna Pia didn't give up and they deservedly made it 3-2, but Emilio restored Ambrit's two-goal cushion when he popped up unmarked in the box to tip the ball home. But, despite some excellent saves from Theo, Ambrit couldn't hang on and Vigna Pia scored twice in the last minutes.

 

ANSPI league (2009-10): Ambrit 2-4 CRIS

With many families away for the break, Ambrit still managed to cobble together a team and what a performance they gave! Right from the start, the team kept its shape and, though forced to defend for long periods, they always remained dangerous in attack where Sara was already ready, always willing and always doing something useful for the team. Her pressure on the defence paid off after 8', forcing the visitors back and forcing an own-goal to put Ambrit 1-0 up. CRIS came back into attack immediately. Francesco made a good diving save from a shot by the No 10 but the visitors scored from a cross that was miskicked by a defender and finished off by the No. 11. CRIS then went ahead, scoring from a free kick that fell to an attacker on the near post. But there was still time for more action before the break. Ambrit won a corner and Emma curled it directly in to make it 2-2.

The second period was Ambrit's best. Aali was fantastic; taking great throw-ins, tackling anything that moved and taking no prisoners! With Emma, Trym and Vittorio beside her, they swept away all attacks and Ben patrolled the midfield, offering another layer of protection but filtering the ball through to Sara and Aurora too.

Period 3 saw CRIS taking the lead from another free-kick and then extending the lead with a harsh penalty. Francesco came out and increased the Ambrit threat going forward; Vittorio took over in goal and made two good saves.

TEAM: Francesco; Trym, Vittorio C, Emma, Aali, Aurora, Ben, Sara

Spain 1-2 Germany

 Spain were reeling in the first period as Ale and Daniele combined over and again to open them up. The decisive move came when Ale released Daniele on the left and, after using his blistering pace to beat three players, he crossed to the centre as Ale arrived to finish off the move.

In the second period, Spain found a solution and maintained a good shape, with Ralf and Trym prominent in defence. Seb was still given lots to do in goal - and did it very well - while Cameron and Emilio put some good moves together. But the Germans went two goals ahead, this time Daniele putting the finishing touch.

In the final period, Cameron put Emilio in and the ex-Arsenal ace managed to sort out his feet and put it past Theo. Game on! Spain threw everything into attack, defended desperately (yellow card for Trym, more great saves from Seb) but the Germans hung on for a win.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Daniele B 9, Seb 5, Ale 4, Kevin 3, Adam O 3, Cameron 2, Ralf 1, Emilio 1

Russia 3-0 Bolivia

 Russia 🇷🇺 e Bolivia 🇧🇴  hanno giocato un bel match, benché il risultato sia stato forse più pesante di quanto visto in campo. La Russia ha vinto meritatamente, per aver espresso un gioco più corale e compatto, mentre la Bolivia si è affidata alle folate offensive di Camila e Aurora, lasciando indietro il resto della squadra. La prima rete russa è stata siglata da Irene, abile a sfruttare una respinta corta della difesa sudamericana. Immediata la reazione della Bolivia, che con Aurora colpisce un palo clamoroso a portiere battuto. La reazione tuttavia viene smorzata immediatamente dal raddoppio di Rose, con un tiro da lontano - non irresistibile - che il portiere non trattiene. La Bolivia ci prova ancora, soprattutto con Camila, oggi molto ispirata, ma è Rose, su calcio d'angolo di Carolina, a trafiggere ancora una volta la difesa boliviana con un tiro al volo e la doppietta personale.

Complessivamente bene tutta la Russia, con Aali sempre più sicura tra i pali, con Maya brava in difesa e anche a supporto del centrocampo, con la fisicità di Irene, Sofia e Carolina. Nella Bolivia si sono distinte Camila, Vittoria e la sorpresa Bianca in porta, che ha ben figurato nonostante il ruolo improvvisato.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Camila 4, Rose 3, Maya 3, Aali 2, Irene 2, Vittoria 2, Aurora 2, Carolina 2, Sofia F 1, Bianca P 1.

ACLI league (2007/08): Mentana 1-4 Ambrit

 Ambrit traveled to Mentana today for a midweek fixture and they made the journey worthwhile by taking home all three points. Ale and Pedro had early shots but, despite the Ambrit dominance, it was the home side who went ahead when their no. 9 rose unchallenged to head home a corner. But the league leaders didn't panic. Ale picked up the ball in midfield, got past three defenders, was fouled twice but still managed to get a good shot away. The ball beat the goalkeeper but came back off the post. Mattia was first to the rebound and swept it home for the equaliser. Mattia had a great game today, winning every ball on the right flank and making the defenders' lives a misery with good passing and good running.

On Form Today!

Ambrit stayed focused after the break. Jonah almost scored with a well-struck shot but it was Ale who put i rossoblu ahead with another well-placed strike that gave the goalkeeper no chance. Ale and Emilio were combining well now and from one of Ale's passes, Emilio crossed  to Bertie and his touch set up Alberto for the third goal. The game opened up now, spaces everywhere. Mentana attacked, tempted Santiago out of position but Giorgio was there to clear the shot off the line. Bernardo came close with a header, Alberto hit the post and Vittorio made it 4-1 when he ran on to Zach's long throw.

Belgium 0-1 Brazil

 Not one of the best games today; very little goalmouth action and just the one goal. Daniel's shot that rebounded off the crossbar was the highlight of the first period and nothing much of any note happened in the second period, apart from a valuable clearance by Josh when the goal was empty behind him. In the final period, Rocco was unlucky to see a well struck shot rebound off the bar, Daniel and Bertie picked up yellow cards and Santiago's long free kick got past a bemused Gabriele who was distracted by his own defender. Santiago was sent off and will miss the next match.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Alberto 5, Rocco 4, Carlo 3, Leo 3, Bertie 2, Adriano 2, Tommaso 1, Daniel 1, Gabriele 1, Josh 1, Santiago 1, Michael 1, Bernardo 1, Marco 1, Louis 1, Alex 1

 Yellow: Bertie; Daniel  Red: Santiago

Basketball: AOSR 50-33 Ambrit

 Ambrit traveled to Via Cassia, hoping to repeat their December victory on American soil, but it was not to be. Though leading early on, Ambrit - with only seven players to rotate - tired as the match wore on and had to concede defeat to their hosts this time.

Team Ambrit

ACLI League (2007/08): Ambrit 14-0 Santa Caterina

 First of all, compliments to today's opponents who turned up today knowing that they were in for a torrid afternoon but they kept plugging away for 50' and always tried to play football. Yes, it was an easy win and Ambrit look to have recaptured the form that took them to the top of the league before crashing to a

Another impressive performance today

surprise defeat against Casaletto. Giorgio got the first goal today and his overall performance was impressive, probably Ambrit's best player today. Seven more goals followed in the first half from Ale (3), Mattia, Bernardo, Santiago and Zach.

Ambrit's formation changed in the second half but the goals kept coming. Bertie opened his account early on and added a second later; Vittorio got on the scoresheet too and Emilio marked his debut with a goal. Giorgio notched another two.

Netherlands 1-0 Italy

 Ancora una sconfitta per l'Italia 🇮🇪, nonostante la buona prova generale contro la temibile Olanda 🇳🇱. I "tulipani" riescono a passare solo nel terzo tempo, con una rete di Vittorio su calcio d'angolo di Antonio: vincente la spizzata di petto, che Myla riesce a intercettare ma non a trattenere.

La partita è stata per larghi tratti dominata dalle ragazze, che hanno mancato il colpo decisivo, anche per la bravura di Giovanni, bravo a opporsi prima a un tiro ravvicinato di Carolina, poi a diversi tentativi di Sara, Camila ed Emma. 

Da segnalare l'ottima prova tra i pali di Aali, imbattuta per due tempi, di Giulio, che con il fisico ha arginato le ripartenze di Carolina, e di Sara, particolarmente pericolosa con il suo pressing e le sue giocate.

L'Italia cresce, partita dopo partita, nonostante il tifo avversario e il rientro del capitano Alice potrebbe essere la svolta per guadagnare i primi punti.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Aali 3, Vittorio 3, Sara 3, Antonio 2, Camila 2, Myla 2, Carolina 2, Giulio 1, Abby 1, Maya 1, Emma 1, Giovanni Z 1.

Bolivia 2-0 Australia

 Today's game was an even contest right down to the last 5 minutes, when the constant harrassment of the Antipodean defence paid off for Aurora and Camila, letting the latter in for two chances and two goals. Earlier, the action had raged up and down and Isabel was in the middle of most of it. Her battle with Vittoria was epic and, although Vittoria managed to clear her lines most of the time, Isabel did get through on occasion to threaten the goal. Martina was her Isabel's accomplice, and the two combined well up and down the pitch. Vittoria had her accomplices too, and some of the tackles that Bianca P used to stop her opponents were genuine bone-crunchers.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Camila 4, Vittoria 3, Isabel 3, Martina 3, Abby 3, Aurora 3, Bianca P 3, Belen 2, Lavinia 1, Bianca S 1, Ginevra 1, Maria 1

Argentina 1-2 Germany

 Argentina, tipped by many to win this World Cup, came a cropper today against a determined Germany. Early on though, the South Americans did take the lead when a long throw from Zach was finished by Pedro. Argentina kept up the pressure and only a fantastic save from Adrian stopped Adam from adding a second goal.

Mattia came on at the start of the second period and he added some much-needed energy to the German midfield. He equalised with a stunning shot on the turn that whistled in off the crossbar and now the Germans had some momentum. At the other end, Adrian was frustrating the Argentinian attack and he made two excellent saves from Pedro.

In period three, Germany went ahead. Again Mattia was involved, the fulcrum for a give-and-go with Ale that opened up a chance for the G7 ace and he didn't miss.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Mattia 5, Theo 4, Ale 3, Adrian 3, Dylan 2, Pedro 2, Kevin 2, Remy 2, Ziyi 1, Yufan 1, Adam O 1, Zach 1, Adam H 1

ANSPI League (2009-10): Sam89 2-3 AMBRIT

 This was a strange game indeed. Ambrit came out for the first period and dominated play. Trym, Emma and Vittorio repelled all attacks and Ambrit attacked time and again down the left, with Ben, Diego and Francesco combining to make lots of chances. But it wasn't until 2' from the break that they finally got a reward when Ben struck a left-footed shot into the bottom corner.

Things changed in the second period. The home side woke up and took over, winning all the loose ball. Ambrit were caught out of position time and again and Gabriele made some timely interventions. Then in in a traumatic 5' period, Ambrit went from 1-0 up to 1-2 down and Sam89 struck the crossbar too! But Ambrit had their chances too; Diego found some great positions and was unlucky to trundle the ball just wide on two occasions.

For the third period, Ambrit dug deep to find renewed energy and determination. From the off, they pinned the home team back and pressed them relentlessly. Emma and Vittorio threw themselves into attacking positions and did a lot to open up space. Trym, now alone in defence, coped admirably. The first chance fell to Ruben but he had to take the bouncing ball early and shot high. The second chance fell to Ben but he shot wide. Emma had a couple of shots too but it was Diego who scored the equaliser. He beat the last defender and shot past the oncoming goalkeeper with confidence. Neither side wanted to settle for a point. Ambrit continued to attack but were often forced to scurry back to defend quick breaks from an ever more dangerous opponent. Then Sara won a ball on the right, turned inside and found Ben with a ball that bounced in front of him; what happened next, we have seen from Ben before: he launched a high, high shot from the halfway line that always looked like it might come straight down onto the goalkeeper and sneak just under the bar... and it did! What a win!!  

TEAM: Gabriele, Trym, Emma, Vittorio, Ruben, Ben, Francesco, Diego, Sara

Brazil 2-2 Spain

 We're still at the beginning of this tournament but things are hotting up! It was all samba at first, with Brazil controlling the ball and pressing the Spanish back. A shot by Marco was deflected by Daniele past Seb for the fits goal. Cameron tried to grab an equaliser but Daniel saved.

Marco was involved in the second goal too, crossing to Santiago for a simple tap-in. Now Spain needed some inspiration and it came from Daniele, who made an incisive run down tha right and crossed a good ball in for Gianmarco to score.

Into period 3 and Spain won a free kick on the left, on the half-way line.  He sized it up and struck a perfectly-placed shot just under the crossbar - no chance for the goalkeeper. Both sides had chances to win it - Seb saved magnificently from Santiago, Gianmarco shot wide - but the game finished level.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Cameron 7, Seb 4, Santiago 3, Gianmarco 2, Emilio 2,  Jonah 2, Daniele 2, Ralf 2, Bernardo 2, Michael 1, Jonah 1, Marco 1 

Yellow: Gianmarco

Mexico 2-1 Russia

 Il Messico 🇲🇽 mette la seconda e scatta in testa alla classifica a punteggio pieno; questa volta a uscire sconfitta è la potente Russia 🇷🇺, nonostante un primo tempo molto equilibrato e combattuto. Di certo è pesata l'assenza di Sofia, infortunata, e di Maya, in quarantena, nell'organizzazione della squadra: l'impressione infatti è che Rose non sia riuscita a schierare una formazione equilibrata, nonostante la buona prova di Ella in difesa, troppo spesso lasciata a tu per tu con Sara, oggi in versione super. Il Messico è stato invece molto ben organizzato, con Myla tra i pali e la coppia Ella - Annika in difesa; Emma inesauribile motore a centrocampo, insieme a Clara, e Sara come terminale offensivo. Proprio sull'asse Emma Sara sono nate le reti messicane, con quest'ultima molto brava nel concludere a rete, una volta di sinistro e una volta di destro. La Russia, pur volenterosa e fisica, grazie a Carolina e Irene soprattutto, non ha sfruttato le occasioni giuste ed è giunta al gol solo a due minuti dalla fine, proprio con un bel diagonale di Carolina.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Sara 8, Emma 6, Carolina 2, Irene 1,  Ella L 1, Aali 1, Rose 1,  Sofia 1.

Argentina 3-3 Netherlands

 Two of the world's top sides produced an exhilarating match in a six-goal thriller at Ambrit Stadium today. Zach tested Giovanni early on but the Dutch keeper saved well and he then kept Pedro out two minutes later. But the South Americans were pressing hard and went ahead when Pedro met a corner with a thundering header. But the Netherlands began to string a few passes together in midfield. Ben was everywhere and Antonio was never far behind. Vittorio's assist to Antonio brought an equaliser. Then, just before the first break, Pedro and Zach combined to restore the Argentinian lead.

Giulio's yellow card was the only incident of note in the second period but the pace picked up again in period 3. Pedro forced another great save from Giovanni but then Vittorio brought the teams level with a sweetly struck 'daisycutter' into the bottom corner. Lorenzo then stunned Argentina; a high ball came off Dylan, Lorenzo controlled with his forst touch and fired it home with his second. But if Dylan blamed himself there, he made up for iyt immediately by getting onto the end of a Zach throw to turn it past Giovanni and save a point for his team.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Dylan 4, Vittorio 4, Giovanni 3, Zach 3, Lorenzo 3, Ben 3, Giulio 3, Pedro 3,  Antonio 2,  Adam 1, Diego I 1

Brazil 2-1 Italy

Santiago's price tag didn't weigh too heavily today as he put two goals past a brave Italy team to make sure of the three points for Brazil. In a fast game that swung from end-to-end, both defences played well and kept chances to a minimum. A handball in the Brazil area 5' from full time allowed Carolina to pull her team closer and Brazil hung on nervously for the last few minutes.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Santiago 5, Myla 4, Carolina 4, Jonah 2, Abby 2, Louis 2, Bernardo 2, Camila 2, Athena 1, Alice 1, Isabel 1, Daniel 1, Michael 1

Yellow: Santiago, Daniel

Australia 1-1 Russia

 Una partita spettacolare, molto combattuta e divertente da vedere, è quella che abbiamo visto oggi all'Ambrit Stadium. Due formazioni agguerrite, determinate a cercare la vittoria, che hanno duellato - pallone su pallone - sino alla fine. Il pareggio, forse, è il risultato più giusto per quanto visto in campo, con le difese in grande evidenza: Abby da una parte e Maya dall'altra non hanno quasi mai sbagliato un intervento.

Veniamo alla cronaca: la Russia, nonostante l'assenza del capitano Rose, parte forte con Irene, Sofia e Carolina ad azzannare ogni pallone: proprio su una punizione guadagnata da Sofia, Carolina trova il vantaggio con un tiro potente. La reazione dell'Australia non si fa attendere molto, ma le molte iniziative di Alice, Martina, Isabel e Athena vengono bloccate da Maya e compagne, mentre sul fronte opposto Abby tira giù la saracinesca e non lascia passare nulla. Quasi allo scadere del primo tempo Isabel trova una percussione fantastica e un gol di prepotenza, con la palla che s'infila sotto la traversa. Il pareggio resiste anche nel secondo tempo, benché le due squadre tentino fino all'ultimo il colpo vincente.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Isabel 4, Abby 3, Athena 3, Maya 3, Irene 2, Alice 2, Carolina 1, Sofia P 1, Aali 1, Martina 1.

Belgium 0-0 Germany

 Germany's 30-million Euro player was missing today and it was a dour encounter with neither team imposing itself and neither deserving more than one point. Germany had the best of the early exchanges, Mattia shooting just over the bar and Theo forcing an excellent save from Cosimo at close range.

Theo struck the bar early in the second period but then Belgium began to take over. Nothing was getting past Carlo and Leo in defence and then Rocco passed to Giorgio and he struck a strong shot just wide. Adriano had a great chance from a corner but wasn't quite ready for it and he too shot just wide. Giorgio struck a fantastic volley from the edge of the area and was unlucky to see it crash back off the bar. Theo had another shot at the other end but Rocco blocked it well.

The same players were prominent in the final period, Theo bringing another save from Cosimo and Adriano providing another assist for Giorgio who shot just wide again.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH: Theo 6, Giorgio 6, Carlo 5, Leo 5, Rocco 2, Mattia 2, Daniele B 1, Adriano C 1

Netherlands 1-1 Spain

Antonio looked dangerous for Netherlands in the first period and it was his beautiful curling shot that almost broke the duck but then struck the post instead. A nice move then saw the ball move from Ruben to Vittorio to Lorenzo but the shot was wide. Trym was booked for a tackle on Vittorio but the free kick was blocked.

Spain came into the game more in the second period and Matteo fired in a good shot just over the bar. At the other end, Vittorio forced a good save from Seb but the score was still 0-0 at the second change-over.

Seb was in action again early in the third period, pulling off a great save to thwart Lorenzo, and Lollo curled another shot just wide 1 minuite later. But his next shot, low down to the near post, did sneak under Seb to make it 1-0. And it was almost an immediate 2-0, but Sebastian blocked Ruben's shot and Daniele P cleared a follow-up shot off the line. But Spain were quick to react. In their next attack, Cameron finally got past Giulio and shot home. Spain could then have stolen all three points when Cameron broke through again but, this time, he shot too early and Giovanni saved easily.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Lorenzo 5, Cameron 4,  Antonio 4, Sebastian 3, Vittorio 2, Giulio T 2, Gianmarco 1, Emilio 1, Giovanni Z 1, Ben 1, Sam 1, Ruben 1, Daniele P 1, Matteo 1

Mexico 2-1 Bolivia

La partita tra Messico e Bolivia, derby sudamericano, inaugura il secondo Intramural dell'anno e la sfida dimostra quanto sia cresciuto il calcio femminile all'Ambrit: lo spettacolo è stato godibilissimo e arricchito da tante belle giocate da entrambe le parti. Ha vinto la squadra più organizzata e aggressiva, nonostante un giocatore in meno. La prima rete nasce dai piedi di Emma, vera dominatrice del centrocampo, che tira dal limite dell'area e trova la sfortunata deviazione di Lavinia. Nella seconda frazione il Messico continua a dominare, grazie alle folate offensive di Sara ed Emma, ben supportate da Clara e dall'ottima prova difensiva di Ella. Le Boliviane, nonostante il grande sforzo di Camila, Aurora e Olivia, faticano a trovare spazi e anzi rischiano un rigore per un sospetto mani di Vittoria in area. A due minuti dalla fine, Sara riceve palla, controlla bene e insacca con un destro incrociato. La reazione della Bolivia arriva troppo tardi, con la bella rete di Aurora, inutile ai fini del risultato.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Emma 5, Sara 5, Ella 4, Aurora 3, Clara 3, Lavinia 1.

Belgium 3-1 Italy

Two of Europe's top teams kicked off the Spring Intramural with an evenly-contested match at Ambrit Stadium. An early Italy attack put Carolina through with one defender and the goalkeeper still to beat. She beat both of them with a good first touch and a calm finish into the corner.

Belgium woke up. Some neat midfield passing brought the ball to Adriano and, when he spotted Carlo in space, the seventh grade ace scored to make it 1-1. Carlo was playing further forward today and his decision was rewarded when he pounced on a loose ball to release another shot past Myla in goal: 2-1 at half-time.

Belgium continued to press. Alberto shot over the bar and then under, but Myla was there with a great block and she repeated the feat twice more before the game ended. Sofia was having an excellent game in defence too, though she did almost score an own goal and was relieved when the ball struck the bar.  Carlo almost scored a third but Myla saved and then Captain Bertie did score when his shot took a big deflection.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Carlo 6, Alberto 4, Myla 3, Athena 3, Carolina 3, Bertie 2, Sofia 1, Rocco 1, Leo 1, Giorgio 1, Isabel 1 , Adriano C 1, Maya 1 

Teachers 3-1 Intramural Champions

The teachers team re-asserted their authority and superiority with a convincing win over a willing team of students at a packed Ambrit Stadium on Friday. Carolina gave the teachers an early fright with a shot that crept wide but it was the teachers who took the lead when Edoardo put Dan clear with a quick pass and the English ace made no mistake. Max found Edoardo on the right of the penalty area and his shot should have made it 2-0 but Myla made an incredible save to keep the students in the game. Cameron's first contribution was a shot that went narrowly over and Francesco shot over for the teachers too. Giulia was having another fantastic game and, when she found Max with a clever pass out wide on the left, the second goal seemed a certainty... but Myla astounded everyone with another miraculous save! The game was still open; Vittorio forced Chad to make a timely save and then Giulia blocked another Vittorio shot before Edoardo gave the teachers some breathing space with a second goal. Now the students threw caution to the wind and Giulia took advantage, turning a Max pass around the goalkeeper and just inside the near post: 3-0. The students kept plugging away - Theo put Vittorio in again but Chad made a great save - and they finally got their reward with a goal from Cameron right at the end. 

Grade 7 1-1 Teachers

Grade 7 came flying out of the traps and pinned the teachers back in the first few minutes. Gianmarco shot wide and Sara and Vittorio had shots well saved by Mr Chad before the teachers put together a lethal counter-attack that saw Max latch onto a through ball from Matteo and calmly lob the goalkeeper to make it 1-0 against the run of play. The lead didn't last long though: a clearance on the left canoned off Emilio and gave Mr Chad no chance: 1-1. The rest of the match was an even contest but clear scoring chances were rare.

Grade 6 0-6 Teachers

 The teachers began 2022 with a comfortable win over a valiant team from grade 6. I Maestri were never really threatened and the statistics tell the story: 82% possession, 15 shots on goal, 9 on target and 6 goals (two each from Max, Edoardo and Dan). G6 managed three shots in the entire game and will need to improve before they come back next year as the g7 team to give the teachers a closer run for their money!

 

CALCIOMERCATO GIRLS

 Di nuovo qui in diretta per un'altra giornata di Calciomercato, questa volta le ragazze!

Il primo giro è un'asta nascosta sulla giocatrice più ambita: Carolina, contesa tra Belen e Rose, va alla Russia per 46 milioni! Alice viene acquistata per 65 milioni da Athena!

Eccoci alla altre ragazze: Maya alla Russia per 20 milioni, si sta muovendo bene Rose...

Offerta segreta per Camila, che va alla Bolivia per 58 milioni!

Emma Torralba fa gola a tutte le squadre, la spunta Myla per 35 mln! Bel colpo. A lei si aggiunge anche Sara, altri 35 mln.

Vittoria alla Bolivia per 36 mln, Sofia alla Russia per 25, Isabel all'Australia per 31 mln.

Ultime assegnazioni per Clara al Messico, Aurora alla Bolivia e Martina all'Australia.

CALCIOMERCATO - BOYS

 Eccoci insieme per la diretta del Calciomercato maschile dell'Intramural!

Quest'anno si inizia con un nuovo format: ogni capitano farà un'offerta segreta per due giocatori che desidera e poi si apriranno le buste! Cifre incredibili, follie!!! Santiago al Brasile per 90 milioni! Ottima mossa della Germania che si assicura Ale per 30 milioni, mentre i gemelli Massi finiscono uno alla Spagna (Cameron, 50mln) e uno all'Argentina (Dylan, 26mln), che si aggiudica anche Pedro! Il Belgio scommette su Giorgio (30mln), la Spagna punta su Emilio (10mln)...

Eccoci alle aste vere e proprie: Zach, molto conteso, finisce all’Argentina per 17 mln, mentre Lorenzo va all'Olanda per 22mln. Molte scommesse su Alberto e Carlo, che finiscono al Belgio, rispettivamente per 34 e 32 mln, mentre Mattia viene preso dalla Germania in "saldo" a 12 mln (che colpo!). 

L'Olanda si assicura un ottimo portiere con Giovanni (24 mln) e un solido centrocampista come Vittorio (39 mln). 

Le altre offerte completano il Tabellone delle squadre. Lucas all'Argentina, Rocco al Belgio, Daniel e Ryan al Brasile, Adrian e Daniele B alla Germania, Giulio T all'Olanda e Gianmarco e Daniele P alla Spagna.

ACLI League (2007/2008): Forte Bravetta 4-3 Ambrit

 Ambrit finished 2021 unbeaten but begin the new year with an unexpected defeat. After going behind to an early goal, the team regained their balance and Bertie equalised with a brave header past the onrushing goalkeeper. The home side regained the lead after 16' but, once again, Ambrit equalised - Vittorio's goal sending the teams in level at half time.

Immediately after the break, Ambrit took the lead for the first time when Vittorio struck again, this time his shot crashing in off the underside of the bar with a helpless goalkeeper looking on. But the team - playing 7 against 8 - was looking tired and the home side took over the midfield. First came the equaliser and then the final goal that decided the encounter.

TEAM: Theo, Bernardo, Vittorio, Jonah, Zach, Mattia, Bertie

ACLI League (2007/08); Simplicitas 1-2 Ambrit

 After some easier recent wins, Ambrit were tested today and came through with flying colours. After 3', Zach gave an early indication that he was in top form when he stole a ball from a defender and shot just over. This was typical of Zach's play today: he was a constant thorn in the opposition defence and was always available for his team-mates, holding up the play and laying off simple, intelligent passes.

Despite dominating possession, Ambrit went 1-0 down but continued to play the better football. After 14', Pedro found Zach who shot wide. Pedro himself then had a shot saved and Ale shot wide off an Alberto corner. Zach found Ale on the edge of the box for another chance but this one also went wide and then Zach took a pass from Alberto and shot high. Ambrit were making chance after chance without scoring while, at the other end, Giorgio, Vittorio and Bernard were clearing up everything, allowing no dangerous balls to threaten Theo.

In the second half, Ambrit went boldly to a two-man defence and continued to pepper the opposition goal with shots. Bertie played a good ball in from the left and Mattia turned it towards the bottom corner but the keeper got there to make the save. The scene was repeated 4' later, this time Alberto finding Mattia in space but the result was the same. Ambrit's pressure finally paid off mid-way through the second half when the referee awarded a penalty for handball. Ale was cool as a cucumber, planting the ball firmly into the back of the net.

The league leaders now had the familiar scent of victory in their nostrils and they continued to pour forward. The best move of the game almost produced a goal as Zach played a one-two with Mattia and then headed the return narrowly over the bar. Ambrit's winner came soon after. Zach's shot was blocked by a defender and, when the ball fell to Alberto on the edge of the area, he made no mistake!

Everybody played well today but a special mention must be made for Zach, Vittorio and Giorgio - all three outstanding!

TEAM: Theo, Bernardo, Giorgio, Vittorio, Ale, Alberto, Pedro, Mattia, Bertie, Zach.  

TEAM

ANSPI league (2009/10): CRIS 5-1 Ambrit

Ambrit flattered to deceive in the first 10 minutes of this match, settling quickly and looking like the better team. But everything changed when the home side went ahead with a goal against the run of play and Ambrit came in at the first break trailing by the single goal.

Early in the second period, Oliver struck with a beautiful left-foot volley to level the scores but CRIS hit back almost immediately to make it 2-1. A third goal for CRIS followed just before the break.

Ambrit came out for the third period determined to pull back but they struggled to contain the opposing No. 15 and struggled to cope with the uneven surface. 

TEAM: Gabriele, Trym, Giulio, Kendi, Tommaso, Ben, Grancesco, Diego, Oliver

MS girls 1-3 g6 Boys

 An exciting match today as the g6 boys managed to edge out the MS girls to wrap up the match schedule before Christmas. The first period finished 0-0, with Maya making a series of saves from Rocco and Daniel. But it was these two who, in the second period, turned the game in the boys' favour. Daniel was first to score and Rocco followed up almost immediately.

The girls pushed hard in the third period and deservedly closed the gap when Alice slotted home a penalty, awarded by VAR for a push by Adriano. The girls had chances to equalise but Adrian kept them out and Ben wrapped up the victory with a high, high lob that crept into the net between Maya's fingertips and the croossbar.

Boys Third Place Final: Sporting 1-0 Zenit

 A headed goal by Marco off  a Santi throw-in was enough to win the match.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Santiago 6, Daniel 4, Daniele B 4, Antonio 4, Marco 2, Giorgio 2, Daniele P 2, Zach 2, Alberto 2

Juventus 3-2 Dortmund

 A packed crowd at Ambrit Stadium today witnessed a fitting final to the Autumn Intramural as the Italian Champions edged over the line by a one-goal margin.

Ale began with two quick shots to find his range and he then put the Germans ahead when Adam found him with a neat pass. From a corner, Vittorio almost equalised but Seb made a good save to preserve the Dortmund lead. Diego almost helped his team to another goal when he stole the ball on the right and crossed dangerously but the score was 1-0 at the break.

Ale began the second period with another couple of shots but Juve equalised when Rocco handled to keep a Gianmarco shot out. Cameron's penalty was precise. But Juve found themselves behind again almost immediately, another Ale strike sealing his place as Top Scorer.

Tiago had an early chance in the third period but it was Vittorio, receiving a pass from Theo, who struck the equaliser. Juve now looked stronger and Gianmarco had a chance to steal a winner when through on his own against Seb but he shot over. But he got an almost identical chance two minutes later and, despite a good challenge from Rocco, he slipped the ball in to trigger more celebrations for i bianconeri!

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Vittorio 6, Theo 6, Ale 4, Dylan 4, Gianmarco 3, Cameron 3, Tiago 1, Bernardo 1

ACLI league (2007/2008): Miracoli FC 1-9 Ambrit

 This was a much more even game than the scoreline would suggest and, particularly in the second half, the home team arguably played the better football for long periods.

So how do we explain the scoreline? Three factors... 

First, Ambrit played with more determination and will-to-win. This was exemplified today by Jonah who never gave his opponents a second to settle on the ball, never gave them a centimeter of space to turn. 

Second, Ambrit played as a team. While their opponents often passed well and tried to play football that was easy on the eye, there was always the feeling that each one was playing for himself. Not so with Ambrit, where the players helped each other all the time and nobody was looking for the individual glory. 

Third, Theo. As Miracoli poured forward in the second half, Theo made a string of saves that ranged from the ordinary to the exceptional and he kept out at least three near-certain goals.

On the mark for Ambrit in the first half: Ale (pen), Alberto, Ale, Vittorio (and what a game he had today... outstanding!), Bertie (fantastic header), Mattia (another header). Second half: Mattia, Zach, Bertie.

Team: Theo, Bernardo, Vittorio, Santiago, Jonah, Mattia, Alberto, Alessandro, Zach, Bertie, Pedro