CFC Football Team: Gazzetta dello Sport San Marinese

[willemvanoranje]

Gazzetta dello Sport San Marinese
- the independent source for San Marino sport news-


Player real names/CFC nicknames:
Mørk = Håkon
Klop = willemvanoranje
Christian = Phantom Lord
Matt = Dell19
Williams = Hawkster
Visinoni = Inter32
Fintas e Pontapes/Zezinho = MCdread
Stoop = Darkness
Muijzer = Shabbaman
Gainford = Gainy Bo
Brooks = Suppersalmon
Rosano = naervod


Archive:

San Marino start of well
Because of the full program, the first San Marino friendly had been cancelled by manager San Marinese, so his team could have an optimal preparation for the first big game in the Serie C2 Cup against Aglianese. Problem was though, that the team was untested, and no one but the manager could predict how this team would do.

A day before the match manager Marinese received a fax from Avellino side, asking what 19-year old De Fedis would cost. Looking at the excellent financial situation, Marinese made Avellino an offer they would certainly refuse.

Then on the 16th of August, San Marino finally received Aglianese at home. The game started in a nicely filled Olimpico (over 5900 people) at 19.30.

The first goal was scored even before everyone in the stadium, including the manager, were seated. After just one and a half minute Alone headed the ball in the short corner after a long throw by defensive midfielder Hitro.

The equaliser did not take long though. In the 6th minute Williams cleared for a corner, which was so well placed that Anglianese had no trouble scoring the 1-1. The largest chance in the rest of the first half was for San Marino. Visinoni advanced on the right and gave a deep pass to Alone, who faced the goal from a difficult angle. The goalkeeper showed safe hands though.

The second half Anglianese started well, having the larger part of possession. However, this did not immediatly translate into any chances. It was not till the 55th minute, when Hitro handled the ball with his arm after a corner, that Anglianese was given the oppurtunity to score. The penalty was shot in hard; Brooks didn't even see it: 1-2.

Fifteen minutes long, the game went up and down. Then it was again Visinoni advancing on the right, who chipped the ball towards Alone. A failing interception got the ball to Muijzer who could only do one thing: shoot. The equaliser was a fact.

San Marino liked the taste of it and wanted more. They started to dominate the game more and more, and got a really big chance in the 76th minute, but Alone did not complete his great play in a one on one with the goalkeeper. A few minutes later it was again a long throw by Hitro that placed Muijzer in a great position to score. A header in the short corner, almost identical to the goal by Alone, was sufficient to blow the whistle for the 3-2.

San Marino did not give their lead away a second time, and although Anglianese had about 55% possession, the lead never came to danger. After 3 minutes of extra time the referee blowed the whistle, and the first San Marinese victory was a fact. In Group G of the Italian Serie C2 Cup, San Marino now occupy a shared first place.

San Marino 3 - Anglianese 2
'2 Alone
'70 Muijzer
'80 Muijzer

"The boys done me proud!"
In the week of the big Deco move (for 11,75 million euros to Real Madrid), San Marino visited Vis Pesaro in the second match of the Serie C2 Cup Group G. The odds in advance of the match were bad for San Marino, a 10-1 for a victory, which placed Vis Pesaro in the role of the favourite.
Manager San Marinese sent in a slightly altered team though, with Christian next to Klop in the central defence, Stoop next to Muijzer in the attack, meaning Alone had to find himself a place on the bench.
The result was easy to see in the field. Vis Pesaro expected an easy win in this match, but it was San Marino who made the game. Neither side got any real chances other than some long distance shots, that were all badly aimed. The battle was fought on the midfield for 45 minutes, without either side winning.
Manager San Marinese was satisfied with his team in the first half, and even saw a slight oppurtunity to win. To not challenge the odds though, he decided to keep it Italian style and prefere the 0 in the back above the goal.
It took till the 62nd minute before the first big chance of the match happened. A long pass from the back was headed away by Christian, but a smar Vis Pesaro player picked the ball up on midfield and put it over the San Marino defence, placing Borneo in an excellent position to score. A lob over goalkeeper Oliver Brooks, who played a fine match, was enough to secure a 1-0 for the home team.
San Marino could not do much against this. Every attempt to penetrate the Pesaran defence ended with loss of possession, which was usually recaptured failry quickly after Pesaro crossed the middle line. The biggest chance on the equaliser was for Muijzer, but his header only resulted in a corner. Not much later the referee didn't feel like going on too long and the 1-0 victory for Pesaro was there.
Manager San Marinese stated for the local press: "the boys done me proud! In an away match where our opponent has so much more quality and experience, I think it's a sign of mentality and ambition when my players do what they did today. Just a 1-0 loss, coming from a somewhat lucky situation. A draw would've been the right result."
It is clear that the San Marinese selection of today has a lot of talent and a lot of future. With some luck they might improve San Marino's position last year, and the hope for promotion is not without foundation.

Vis Pesaro - San Marino 1-0

1. Brooks 8
2. Christian 6
3. Mørk 8
4. Klop 7
5. Stoop 7
6. Prettyvacant 6
7. Visinoni 6
8. Fintas e Pontapes (c) 8
9. Hitro 6
10. Muijzer 7
11. Rhye 7 (74' Gainford 6)

San Marino practice goal scoring
Because of the lousy pre-season of San Marino, manager San Marinese had planned a friendly match against Milazzello between two matches of the Serie C2 Cup. Marinese used the game to give everyone their deserved minutes, and to experiment with his players a bit.

The line up in this game was almost the same as in the last match: it was Gainford who came into the first 11 at cost of Rhye though. Gainford occupied the right back position.

The game started of with a somewhat slow San Marino. After some yelling from the sideline they began to play with more passion though, and this resulted in a few chances. It was not till the 42nd minute though, when Muijzer was pulled down in the penalty area, that Hitro could score with a bad shot, but even worse keeped penalty. 1-0 was the score at half time.

Manager Marinese substituted some players, of who Rhye and Alone proved to be the best in the last 45 minutes. After some shots that did not pose any danger to Milazzello, a fould was committed on Alone after he had taken the ball into the penalty are from a long pass by Matt. Alone finished the job himself with a powerfull shot through the middle. The goalkeeper did not stand a chance.

San Marino began to enjoy the evening more and more, and especially Fintas e Pontapes showed his creativity in the free role on the midfield his manager had given him. A pass from Rhye was headed to the San Marino captain by Muijzer, a small solo going past two defenders followed, and Fintas e Pontapes finished with a dry shot: 3-0.

Just two minutes later the most beautiful action of the match took place, leaving the 11 players of Milazzello gasping and the crowd at Olimpico cheering. It was Rhye who picked up the ball near the middle line, who set in a solo Zinedine Zidane and Maradona would be proud of. He did not stop till he was 40 meters and 7 opponent players further. A short cross towards the goal was enough for Stoop to put his head against the ball. The 4-0 was there.

Alone faced the keeper not much later, but an accurate tackle prevented him from scoring the fifth of the evening. After the game San Marino manager San Marinese did not wish to say more than that it had been a good match and that he was extremely pleased the way some subs presented themselves. No doubt he was talking about Rhye here. The supporters in the stadium though, voted for Stoop as man of the match.

San Marino - Milazzello 4-0
'42 Hitro (pen)
'66 Alone (pen)
'82 Fintas e Pontapes
'84 Stoop

1. Brooks 7 (45' Rosano 7)
2. Gainford 6 (45' Williams 7)
3. Mørk 8
4. Klop 8
5. Christian 8
6. Prettyvacant 7 ('45 Rhye 7)
7. Visinoni 8
8. Fintas e Pontapes (c) 8
9. Hitro 8 ('45 Matt 8)
10. Muijzer 7 ('45 Alone 8)
11. Stoop 9

San Marino back on course
The 4-0 home win against amateur side Milazzello must've had a positive impact on the San Marino players. In the third game of the Serie C2 Cup they faced Prato, and once again, the odds were against them.

With the same starting eleven as in the Milazzello game San Marino kicked off. It did not take long for the first two shots on the Prato goal were fired, but both were saved by the keeper. In the 9th minute it was last match's best player Stoop who passed the ball on to San Marino captain Fintas e Pontapes, who could only do one thing: score. The 1-0 was there and the 6000 supporters at Olimpico went crazy.

San Marino continued with confidence, knowing that Prato had to attack now, and that every oppurtunity on a break-out would be used. Fintas e Pontapes showed his skill, and clearly enjoyed the free role he had kept after his performance in the friendly game 4 days earlier. It was the captain himself who almost made the referee put down the 2-0 in his notebook, when it was only the Prato goallie that prevented him from finishing his solo in style in the 26th minute.

Prato did not appear to be playing at all. In the 41st minute it was Muijzer who saw a hole in the Prato defence and managed to put shoot the ball, sadely, narrowly over the crossbar. Half-time score was 1-0 for San Marino.

In the 50th minute Parto's furstration became evident, when Pagaro made a foul tackle on Stoop, who had to leave the pitch injured. Alone came on the replace him. A few minutes later, in the 56th minute, it was Fintas e Pontapes who passed a long ball to Visinoni who crossed the ball towards Alone. Alone did not need to touch the ball though, since Prato defender Lamonica was friendly enough to put it in his own goal: 2-0. The following event was illustrative for the game: with a nice swing of his right arm, the Prato goalkeeper told his defender what he thought of him.

A free kick by Fintas e Pontapes and a long distance shot by Visinoni that both missed the goal were the only chances worth mentioning for the rest of the game. The 2-0 victory secured the co-leadership in Group G for San Marino, even though they have played a game more than 2 others, who can end up with 6 points after their next game as well.

Manager San Marinese was pleased with his team's performance, and couldn't hide his excitement with his captain's play. A downside for him was the loss of his coach Morgati to Serie C2/B side Montevarchi, and the minor injury of Stoop.

San Marino - Prato 2-0
9' Fintas e Pontapes
56' Lamonica (og)

1. Brooks 8
2. Gainford 7
3. Mørk 8
4. Klop 8
5. Christian 7
6. Prettyvacant 7
7. Visinoni 8
8. Fintas e Pontapes (c) 8
9. Hitro 8
10. Muijzer 7
11. Stoop 8 (51' Alone 6)

 

[willemvanoranje]

"Muijzer scores again "
The 1st of September, a day after Feyenoord's Super Cup win against Real Madrid (0-0, 8-7 penalties), the SerieC2/B started with a serie of 9 matches, one of them being San Marino - Sangiovannese. San Marino's growing form lead to almost equal odds against last year's runner-up, so this promised to be an exciting match. San Marino veteran Paul Williams was not part of the team because of a dislocated shoulder injury, that will keep him from playing for a month.

A game of possession was played for more than half an hour before San Marino's left attacking midfielder Visinoni picked the ball up on the midfield, manouvred himself into the penalty area, powered a shot towards the left corner of the goal, but sadely missed.

In the 41st minute it was Prettyvacant, the right midfielder, who headed the ball on to Stoop after a pass by Hitro. Stoop ran some meters with the ball and shot, but Tosti parried the ball and Sangiovannese defenders cleared.

Six minutes later, 2 minutes in extra time, it was Visinoni crossing a ball into the penalty area that enabled Muijzer to head in his third goal of the season: 1-0 at half-time.

The second half started of rather strange when during a San Marino attack, goalkeeper Oliver Brooks injured himself and had to be replaced by 14-year old Rosano in the 51st minute. About 15 minutes later Prettyvacant took a free kick from the side of the penalty area, which was headed just over the goal by controlling midfielder Hitro, who played a very decent match.

Not much happened in the game, and San Marino did not look like they were going to give it away for 20 minutes. Then in the 87th minute it was a long pass over the defence by Klop that put Fintas e Pontepas with the ball 30 meters from the goal and just the goalkeeper to beat. A short run and a low shot past the Sangiovennese goalkeeper clinched the match in a 2-0 vicotry for San Marino, who now share the first place with two other teams.

San Marino - Sangiovannese 2-0
'45(+2) Muijzer
'87 Fintas e Pontapes

1. Brooks 7 (51' Rosano 7)
2. Gainford 8
3. Mørk 8
4. Klop 8
5. Christian 7
6. Prettyvacant 7 (78' Rhye 7)
7. Visinoni 8
8. Fintas e Pontapes (c) 8
9. Hitro 8
10. Muijzer 8
11. Stoop 9

 

[willemvanoranje]

Man wins 2500 euros for Pistoiese - San Marino
Long balls do the trick
Everyone knew that yesterday's last Serie C Cup Group G match between leaders Pistoiese and runner-up San Marino would turn into a clear victory for SerieC1/A side Pistoiese. Strange things happen. San Marino proved it's excellent form yesterday by winning with grand number in the away game and by that qualifying for the 1st knock-out round in the cup.

It was not so that San Marino played with Pistosiese. As a matter of fact, San Marino did not look good at all. A low shot by Visinoni challenged the Pistosiese goalkeeper in the 8th minute, but not before two big chances in the 4th minute for the home team. It was to no one's suprise that the 1-0 was scored in the 12th minute already. A nice pass over Klop and Christian placed Fatello in front of Brooks, who failed to parry the shot: 1-0.

Pistosiese kept going. Shots and free kicks kept challenging the San Marinese defence and goalkeeper Brooks, it seemed nothing but a matter of time before Pistosiese would increase their lead. It was as if Brooks had brought two angels to guard his goal though, shots on the crossbar and post did not result in a second goal either.

In one of the few attack of San Marino a corner was given away by the home team. Fintas e Pontapes placed it well near the penalty spot, where attacker Muijzer was positioned well to head the ball in the left corner with a powerfull header: 1-1. No one knew what had just happened. Pistosiese did not like this of course, but did not worry too much. In the 45th minute Mesa placed a free kick on the crossbar of Brook's goal, and still it was clear to everyone who was going to win the game.

The second half was just a few minutes old when again Fatello, who received a yellow card in the first half, seemed to manouvre himself in a position to score. However, Klop made a professional tackle taking Fatello with him, resulting in a free kick and a yellow card (Klop is banned for the next cup match). Mesa was took it again, and this time it was Brooks who saved his team.

Immediatly he threw the ball to Mørk though, who gave a pass over 40 meters to Muijzer, who advanced towards the goal and passed the ball to Stoop who could score an easy goal: 1-2.

Not even now did anyone worry, even manager San Marinese did not expect to keep the lead. There was a change on the pitch though, San Marino began to play stronger, and even though Pistoiese was the dominating team, they did not get any big chances anymore. In the 73rd minute it was again a long pass, this time by Christian, that placed San Marino captain Fintas e Pontapes in an excellent position to stunt, but the ball went just wide.

Seven minutes later it was for the third time a defender, again Christian, with a long pass the split open the entire defence of Pistoiese. Fintes e Pontapes received the ball and passed it on to Prettyvacant, who advanced on the right, chipped the ball into the area where Muijzer hit the ball furiously in the net: 1-3.

Now the crowd and Pistoiese began to see what was happening. They were not only losing this game, they were also going to be kicked out of the Cup. Their play became more foul, while San Marino only grew in strenght. In the last minute of the normal time Fintas e Pontapes scored the 1-4 after a pass by Prettyvacant, who had received the cross from Muijzer.

The 1-4 victory was predicted by just one man in the region, who put 50 euros on the game. He has now 2500 euros to spend. Manager San Marinese was quoted "I don't know what just happened, but I'm really happy about it." San Marino qualified for the first knock-out round of the SerieC Cup in a match no one ever imagined could end like that...except for that one man.

Pistoiese - San Marino 1-4
'42 Muijzer
'47 Stoop
'80 Muijzer
'90 Fintas e Pontapes

1. Brooks 7
2. Gainford 7
3. Mørk 7
4. Klop 9
5. Christian 8
6. Prettyvacant 7
7. Visinoni 7
8. Fintas e Pontapes (c) 8
9. Hitro 8
10. Muijzer 8
11. Stoop 9

 

[willemvanoranje]

 

[willemvanoranje]

Stoop's head is worth gold
Where the long passes did the trick in San Marino's last away game, the corners do it now. The combination of Fintas e Pontapes' corners and Stoop's excellent heading technique clinched the game in the 21st minute already.

It was the fastest goal in the league so far that put San Marino in the lead. Stoop squared in the ball from the right, and incoming left midfielder Visinoni hit the ball low and hard, resulting in the 0-1 after 29 seconds.

Just three minutes later it was the first corner of the match hit by Fintas e Pontapes that enabled Stoop to head in the ball for the 0-2. The airforce of San Marino is the best in the league, as is to be expected with so many tall players, and Aglianese could not do anything about it with their small defenders.

Of course Aglianese tried to do something back. In the 10th minute it was a corner that put Graziani free for the goal to score the 1-2. This was the only time San Marino' airforce would fail.

A minute later it was a shot by Muijzer that forced Aglinese goalkeeper Lippi to give away a corner. The situation wasn't any different. Again Fintas e Pontapes took the corner, and again Stoop stood at the right place to score his second of the day: 1-3.

Ten minutes later, in the 21st minute, it is Christian who gives long pass towards Stoop who, for the third time in the game, heads the ball. For the third time in the game, Lippi and his defence were left standing: 1-4.

It did not end there though, just another 5 minutes later the smile on manager San Marinese's face became even bigger when his star-players did it again. The corner by the San Marino captain, the header by Stoop. It looked like a friendly match against 12-year olds: 1-5.

The last chance of the first half was for Hitro, who once again played a good match. He hit the ball from 25 meters, but the ball went over the goal.

In the second half San Marino put in 3 pair of fresh legs, and ordered his team to slow down to not cause any injuries or tiredness. It was not till the 69th minute that the next chance for San Marino was there: Matt passed the ball to Rhye, who crossed to Fintas e Pontapes, who shot the ball wide. A bad goal kick by unlucky Aglianese goalkeeper Lippi resulted in an interception by Rhye. He passed the ball to Stoop, who flicked it on to Visinoni. He was left a simple finish and put his foot to the ball for the 1-6.

Manager San Marinese was congratulated on the pitch by San Marino board members. He himself stated that this game was won by the team, not by him. Visinoni will probably get some rest for the next game, since he is getting very tired. Stoop will probably have a nice negotiating position in future contract talks.

Aglianese - San Marino 1-6
'1 Visinoi
'4 Stoop
'12 Stoop
'21 Stoop
'26 Stoop
'70 Visinoni

1. Brooks 7
2. Gainford 7 ('45 Matt 7)
3. Mørk 7
4. Klop 7
5. Christian 7
6. Prettyvacant 7 ('45 Rhye 7)
7. Visinoni 8
8. Fintas e Pontapes (c) 8
9. Hitro 8
10. Muijzer 8 ('45 Alone 7)
11. Stoop 10

 

[willemvanoranje]

San Marino hit winning streak
The third San Marinese league game of the season was against an opponent of international fame. Lucky for San Marino, Rimini is only known for its beach and sea, not for football.

This last game before the big match in the cup against Serie C1/A side Sora proved to cause little trouble for the mini-state team. The good line of the last game was continued, resulting in a convincing win.

San Marino started of easy, dominating the game withoutmuch pressure. Without the injured Muijzer, who is out for a week with a damaged shoulder, the pace in attack was somewhat slower. Still, Alone put in a decent performance replacing San Marino's quick winger. In the 26th minute it was Prettyvacant who crossed the ball towards Stoop, but he missed the goal.

Six minutes later it was Visinoni, who had to play because of Muijzer's injury, who made his third goal of the season. He picked up the rebound from Prettyvacant's shot and put it in the goal with ease: 1-0.

The second goal should've been made by Alone in the 53rd minute. Stoop first fired a shot from 16 meters which was parried by the goalkeeper, who stayed down. Alone was left an open goal, and even though the angle was difficult, it was hard to miss. The ball went into the sidenetting.

Ten minutes later the 2-0 was there. A long pass from the feet of Matt and a goalkeeper far from his goal enabled Fintas e Pontapes to score the second of the day. The score was even lifted to 3-0 in a classy attack, set up by Matt, when Stoop scored with the head from Prettyvacant's pass.

Manager San Marinese commented to be delighted, but hammered on the fact that this was not the best opponent, and the big test is only to come next wednesday against Sora. About the cup game: "I have no illussions. If we manage to draw, I'm satisfied. We might even win at home, but I do not count on another round. We've had our share of luck in the last."

San Marino - Rimini 3-0
'32 Visinoni
'62 Fintas e Pontapes
'84 Stoop

1. Brooks 7 (63' Rosano 7)
2. Gainford 8
3. Mørk 8
4. Klop 8
5. Christian 7
6. Prettyvacant 7
7. Visinoni 8
8. Fintas e Pontapes (c) 8
9. Hitro 7 (63' Matt 7)
10. Alone 6 (63' Rhye 7)
11. Stoop 8

 

[willemvanoranje]

Sora do as expected
Sora has put itself in an excellent position to advance to the next round of the Serie C Cup after yesterday's win against San Marino. A penalty in the 64th minute was enough to secure a 1-0 advantage in the return match.

San Marino started the game without injured Muijzer and Williams and banned central defender Klop. Alone had taken the place of Muijzer like last match, and Klop was replaced by Matt in central defence.

Sora was the big favourite of the game, and apperantly planned an early lead to shock their opponents. In the 2nd minute it were Di Domenico and Caputo who had two big chances, but both times Brook made the save.

The pressure on the San Marinese goal stayed high in the first half, but excellent tackling by Hitro on the midfield prevented many chances. In the 46th minute Ciavastian came face to face with Brooks. The San Marino goalie kept his nerves and took the ball from Ciavastian's feet. The first half ended in 0-0.

The secon half started as if the first never ended. San Marino was pressed back into defence and could not pose any threat on the other side. Apperantly Sora had been studying some tapes, long balls were picked up by defenders staying far back, and corners were not given away. Stoop and the San Marino captain were effectively marked by their defenders so they could not become the deciding factor in the game.

In the 61st minute it was Caputo who shot the ball just wide of the goal, where Brook was left standing. Four minutes later the next Sora attack ended with the 0-1. Lombardi advanced on the left and crossed the ball past Gainford to Caputo. Mørk cleared the ball with a header, but Christian slid into Caputo bringing him down. Battaglia stepped up confidently and put the ball in Brook's right hand corner: 0-1.

Manager San Marinese admitted the loss was deserved, and the score was even on the low side. "As I said, I don't expect to reach the next round. I want my team to perform well, but we must also be realistic. I'm not like Basel's manager. I must say though, that I do see oppurtunities."

The oppurtunities San Marinese is talking about are probably the long ball. The entire game the inaccurate long balls from defence were intercepted by the concentrated Sora defence, except for once in th 28th minute, when Fintes e Pontapes received the ball for a one on one with the Sora goallie, but shot the ball over the goal. It's a very small oppurtunity, but it is an oppurtunity. "...and next game Klop and Muijzer are back." said San Marinese with a twinkle in his eyes "But now we will concentrate on the next league game first."

San Marino - Sora 0-1

1. Brooks 7
2. Gainford 7
3. Mørk 6
4. Matt 7
5. Christian 6
6. Prettyvacant 6
7. Visinoni 7
8. Fintas e Pontapes (c) 7
9. Hitro 6
10. Alone 6
11. Stoop 7

 

[willemvanoranje]

San Marino continue league campaign in style
On the fourth matchday in the Italian Serie C2/B San Marino went on a little trip to visit the #13 Grosetto. Klop and Muijzer came back into the starting eleven at cost of Alone and Matt. Last wednesday the great form of San Marino was interrupted by a home defeat against Sora, so the 'Civfanatics' were dying to make up.

Immediatly after the start the three strong points were looked for: the long ball from defence, the headers of Stoop and the long throws of Hitro. The first to showed their act in the 3rd minute already, when a long pass by Christian reached Mørk, who crossed for Stoop to head the ball in: 0-1.

The game went somewhat dead before Nicoletti powered a header on Brooks in the 34th minute. This was not a sign of what might come though, since the rest of the first half did not produce any chance of significance anymore.

Five minutes after the second half had started, it was right midfielder Prettyvacant who gave a long pass over 30 meters to Zizinho. The San Marino captain controlled the ball on the chest and fired a distance shot, but it went wide.

In the 52nd minute the third secret weapon of San Marino did its thing. Hitro threw in the ball from the corner flag to the first post, where Stoop had positioned himself well and headed the ball past the goalkeeper in the short corner: 0-2.

Grosetto smelled oppurtunities though, and just 4 minutes after San Marino's second, Parola's free kick was only just parried by Brooks and cleared by Gainford. Grosetto kept pushing, resulting in a few attacks, most notably the one in the 67th minute where Nicoletti shot the ball just over the crossbar.

A counter clinched the game in the 71st minute: Visinoni got the ball from Klop, advanced over midfield, crossed the ball to Stoop who, for the third time this game headed the ball into the goal. Grosetto was left standing and gasping.

One thing is clear: this team has a future. Now playing football at semi-professional level in the Serie C2/B, next year probably Serie C1, and maybe even Serie B in a couple of years. Who knows. For sure is that Williams will not see this anymore, as he has announced his retirement at the end of the season. The 38-year old defender stated that it was time to invest more in his family and daytime career. His retirement is not for 100% sure though, since manager San Marinese asked him to reconsider, and Williams stated he would think about it.

For San Marino it's better if Stoop would score a bit less, if they want to keep him. At the moment no one is interested in him, but if he keeps scoring the way he does, it can't be long before a Serie B side drops and inquiery in San Marinese's inbox. One thing is for sure: he deserves more money. The contract he has now goes to 2008 for 1,900 euros a month. San Marino would do wisely giving him a full-time contract for three times that salary. Manager San Marinese however, does not wish to start talking yet: "He must show he can do this kind of thing for a longer time than one month. He must show he's not a one day fly. I'm confident he will show he's not, but until he did, there will be no contract talks."
San Marino now occupy the 1st place with 12 points out of 4 matches.

Grosetto - San Marino 0-3
'2 Stoop
'52 Stoop
'71 Stoop

 

[willemvanoranje]

 

[Dell19]

Matt disappointed

After starting his first game in the cup against Sora and putting in a reasonable performance, whilst several other players put in disappointing performances, San Marino player Matt said he was disappointed at being dropped for the next game away to Grosseto.

Of note, has been Matt's previous good performances, after coming on as a sub, including an assist in the 3-0 win against Rimini. Although it does seem a little early for a player to be complaining about not being picked, especially as San Marino are currently unbeaten with the current team so perhaps the manaer doesn't want to shake up the team too much.

Matt later on did issue a second comment saying that whilst he was disappointed to not have been picked he is still willing to fight for a place in the team and will try harder in training to convince the manager to play him. Now we will have to see whether Matt will feature in the next game, or will the manager decide to make a statement by dropping Matt from the bench to give a clear indication to players that he picks the squad.

 

[willemvanoranje]

Sora go on to next round
In the return match of the first knock-out round in the Serie C Cup, Sora finished the job with a 2-0 victory at home against San Marino. A slow game without many chances was clearly dominated by the home team, who created a marginal lead in chances.

In the fifth minute it was Di Domenico who seemed to score the first, but his header went just over while the San Marinese airforce failed. Somewhat later in the 13th minute, it was again Di Domenico who came above Christian to power a header in the net after a crossing from the right: 1-0.

San Marino kept faith and tried to do something back, but all passes towards the Sora goal were intercepted. At one occation halfway the first half, Zezinho placed himself free in front of the goal, but the shot was tipped over by the Sora goalie.

In the 31st minute Sora finished the game by scoring the 2-0. Di Domenico dribbled through the San Marinese defence and passed the ball past the keeper to Caputo, who had to do nothing but put his feet against the leather: 2-0.

I did not take a lot of strength for San Marino to keep their opponent from scoring more, but they were unable to create any chance for themselves either. A long shot by Hitro in the 87th minute was the best San Marino did. “Ah well. There’s another cup next year” said manager San Marinese.

When asked about the “Matt-matter”, the manager stated the following: “We have a young team, and he’s part of that young team. We only have a few people that are 100% sure of their place in the starting 11 right now. The reason that the team has been the same for so long is simple: never change a winning team. I admit Matt did good in the first match, and he’s getting better every day. I told him not to worry, he will get his chance, just like others are getting that chance now. He can play on the right and central defence, and even the midfield is an option, although I’m pretty satisfied with Prettyvacant on that spot. He will have to concentrate for right back; that’s the place I see him at in the future. For now all he can do is wait, train really hard and do the best he can every time he gets in.”

By this the matter is closed for San Marinese, and according to the coach as well for Matt. In the meanwhile the press’ lobby for getting Matt in the first 11 will continue.

Sora – San Marino 2-0

1. Brooks 6
2. Gainford 6 (78' Matt 6)
3. Mørk 7
4. Klop 7
5. Christian 7
6. Prettyvacant 6 ('78 Rhye 6)
7. Visinoni 7 (78' Alone 6)
8. Zezinho (c) 6
9. Hitro 8
10. Muijzer 7
11. Stoop 8

 

[willemvanoranje]

Muijzer: I’m baaaaack!
“Unbelievable!” that’s what San Marinese and the Castel di Sangro manager said at the same time after Muijzer’s second goal. In the 21st minute he made a solo past 4 defender to end in a one on one against the goalkeeper. A simple move placed him free in front of the goal: 3-0.

Muijzer is back and he want everybody to know. The match was only 24 seconds underway when he received a pass from Visinoni, and the Castel di Sangro goalkeeper had to interfere. Two and a half minutes later Muijzer did what he was in the field for: again Visinoni crossed the ball to him, and this time he did not wait for the keeper to do something. A powerful header hit the net behind the goalkeeper: 1-0.

Just 10 minutes later it was defensive midfielder Hitro, the only man with a nice record in the last match, who tackled on the midfield, advanced towards the area and fired a long distance shot past the goalkeeper just under the crossbar: 2-0.

Although the Castel di Sangro manager had predicted otherwise, it was San Marino that dictated the game. Once again it showed its superb form by not allowing the ball to come over the middle line for almost 8 minutes, not even for a pass back to goalkeeper Brooks. Muijzer’s solo in the 21st minute resulted in the 3-0. Six minutes later it was Muijzer again, this time hitting the post. The rebound fell to Zezinho who found the goalie on his way. Stoop then scored, but the whistle had already blown for offside.

Castel di Sangro did something back in the 45th minute with a long shot by Rusciti, but that was about the only thing they provided all match long. In the 50th minute Prettyvacant crossed the ball to Muijzer after a 35 meter pass from Christian’s feet. Muijzer headed again and showed he knows to use this part of the body just as good as his collegue in the attack. Stoop himself had a nice chance as well in the 73rd minute, but the shot went wide.

Ten minutes later it was a marvelous solo by Zezinho finished with a subtle pass to Muijzer that prepared the 5-0. The 6000 visitors at Olimpico kept singing till well after the match and went crazy when their favorite team came back on the pitch 45 minutes after the last whistle. An Italian national newspaper stated: “Whilst they had expected another season of mid-table football, the San Marino fans are thrilled about their team leading the league after 5 games.” “Our goals have always been clear to us: promotion.” said San Marino captain Zezinho in a short interview after the match.


San Marino – Castel di Sangro 5-0
4’ Muijzer
14’ Hitro
21’ Muijzer
50’ Muijzer
84’ Muijzer

1. Brooks 8
2. Gainford 8 (52’ Matt 7)
3. Mørk 8 (62’ Rhye 6)
4. Klop 8
5. Christian 8
6. Prettyvacant 7
7. Visinoni 8 (52’ Alone 6)
8. Zezinho (c) 8
9. Hitro 8
10. Muijzer 10
11. Stoop 8

 

[willemvanoranje]

Castelnuovo sit out San Marino attacks
With a weakened team San Marino went on the bus trip to Castelnuovo yesterday: Gainford was out for a day with a dead leg and Muijzer was left home with a bruised shin, that will keep him sidelined for another week.

Manager San Marinese was forced to change his team somewhat. The right back position was taken over by the eager youngster Matt, who's been dying for a chance in the first team. The Muijzer problem was solved by putting Visinoni in his position as left striker and placing Alone on the attacking midfield position.

On the pitch you could see that the team was not used to playing like this. The left side of Visinoni that was normally so dangerous, did not succeed in creating any good crosses towards the goal yesterday. Manager San Marinese must have had trouble to not burst out in a rage everytime Alone and Mørk got into another misunderstanding.

It took until the 15th minute before the first big chance appeared, and it wasn't for San Marino. Penucci hit a shot from distance, Brooks parried, and the ball was picked up in the area by Biggi. Brooks showed once again that, despite his young age, he is an excellent goalkeeper with excellent reflexes. He jumped up raising both his hands and not only prevented a goal, but even kept possession by holding the ball in his hands firmly.

Almost 15 minutes later San Marino got its first big chance to take the lead. It was Visinoni who struck a piledriver that was only narrowly tipped over by Franchi.

Throughout the game the battle between Visinoni and Franchi would become the decisive factor for the end result. Before Visinoni's next chance it was Stoop who picked up a ball on the edge of the area, but failed to score. In the 67th minute, five minutes later, Visinoni went through on goal for a one on one with goalkeeper Franchi, who showed save hands and gathered the ball easily.

Just half a minute later it was Stoop who passed to Visinoni on the left, for the third time Visinoni failed to increase his efficiency rating when Franchi parried the ball and defenders cleared it for a throw in.

A corner in the 70th minute did not produce a goal for San Marino either, and then Brooks was tested again after a long time. This time the excellent defence of the ministate side proved their humanity by making a small mistake that enabled Grassi to power a header across the goal after a cross by Biggi. Brooks tipped the ball over thouhg, so the 0 was saved.

The games last chance came two minutes later in the 86th minute when Stoop tried to take the ball past goalkeeper Franchi after a long header by Klop, but the goallie gathered the ball from Stoop's feet, and the chance was wasted.

Manager San Marinese can be happy about the defensive qualities of his team, but in the attack they certainly lacked creativity and speed. Of course the number of injuries had effect on the game, but as San Marinese said "We should not waste points against such a team." On the other hand San Marinese should be glad about the fact that his team won all league games before this one: they won against teams they normally wouldn't have won against as well, and San Marino is still in first place on goal difference.

When asked about Matt the manager said the following: "I'm satisfied with the defensive work he showed today. I think he did not play well on the offensive part of his job though. Of course it's something the whole team did not succeed in today, so it's not just his fault." When asked if Matt would keep his place in the team manager San Marinese did not want to say anything but "I'll decide during next weeks training, he'll know two days before the match, and you'll know when you see the line-up."

Who will certainly not play next match is Alone. After the match Director of Football Stapel confirmed that the physio had presicribed him 6 days of rest after he had twisted his ankle minutes before the final whistle. It will leave San Marinese with an interesting puzzle to create a good line-up for next wednesday.

Castelnuovo - San Marino 0-0

1. Brooks 8
2. Matt 6
3. Mørk 6
4. Klop 8
5. Christian 6
6. Prettyvacant 6
7. Alone 7
8. Zezinho (c) 7
9. Hitro 7
10. Visinoni 7
11. Stoop 8

 

[willemvanoranje]

Frustrated San Marino win at Olimpico
Following San Marino’s 1-0 win over Gualdo, San Marino chairman Guiseppe Bruscali declared himself extremely pleased with the result. Although still early in the season, Civfanatics fans must be delighted with their club’s current league position at the head of the table. Whilst most fans had expected another season of mid-table obscurity, the side are performing above expectation at this stage of the football season.

San Marino seem to suffer a kind of set-back. The game at Olimpico was won yesterday, but the constant pressure and dominance seen in previous games was no where to be found. The first signs of irritations even showed up, when Klop pushed his direct opponent Rossi away, and received a harsh red card for it in the 56th minute. Rhye came on to replace Muijzer and played the rest of the game on right back position, while Matt took over Klop’s place in central defence.

Lucky for Klop he was shown the red card after the first goal had been scored by Visinoni, who returned to his spot on the left midfield after the surprising early recovery of Muijzer. In the 30th minute he had gotten a great chance, but he hit a defender instead of the net. Nine minutes later a long distance shot with a lot of curve hit the net above Gualdo goalkeeper Aiardi: 1-0.

After a corner had not resulted in a goal in the 15th minute, San Marino’s other weapon was used in the 42nd minute. Hitro’s long throw put Christian in a scoring position, but his header missed accuracy and the post cleared for Gualdo.

The second half was boring and a number of supporters decided to leave the game early. The first ten minutes San Marino’s performance wasn’t bad at all, but after Klop’s red card, it became much harder to create any chances, facing an opponent with one man more on the pitch. It was thanks to Christian’s leadership in the back that Gualdo was kept from using their man more to their full advantage, and San Marino kept the lead.

In the 79th minute Fusseini should have received a red card for his mean foul on Visinoni, who had to leave the pitch because of the injury inflicted on him. How serious the injury is will be announced later, Visinoni is currently in the hospital for some scans.

With Visinoni out manager San Marinese has a long list of injured players. Last match it was a dead leg keeping Gainford out of the team, this match and all matches in the coming three weeks it will be a broken leg that keeps him sidelined. He sustained the injury when he tripped during monday’s fitness training in the hills of Toscane.

Paul Williams on the other hand, resumed full training a day before yesterday’s match. Manager San Marinese decided not to add him to the selection though, since the match fitness of the 39-year old was not adequate yet. The last 20 minutes in the next match will probably become his first minutes since the season opening match.

San Marino – Gualdo
’39 Visinoni

1. Brooks 7
2. Matt 7
3. Mørk 8
4. Klop 7
5. Christian 8
6. Prettyvacant 7
7. Visinoni 8 (79’ Alone 7)
8. Zezinho (c) 8
9. Hitro 7
10. Muijzer 8 ('56 Rhye 7)
11. Stoop 8

 

[Håkon]

Maerk delighted with team's performance

La Gazzetta has recently been overawed by the fantastic performances of the San Marino football team. In recent years, the team so dear to all San Marinese hearts has struggled at the bottom of the Serie C2, but the new management and the cooperation with Civfanatics.com has brought a new era to the hillsides. We caught up with young defender Haokon Mierk after Monday's training.

"I think we've had a great season, yes. We're unbeaten in the league yet after our new coach took over, we've played some amazing matches, and our defense is rock-solid. Add to that a splendid attack led by Muijzer, Visinoni and Stoop, and you have a top-class team," he said.

When asked about the upcoming national team matches against Hungary, he admitted that the chance of a win was minimal. "Our team is mainly made up of uncontracted youngsters," he said. "We don't stand much chance against such a professional squad as the Hungarians, however, we hope to keep a clean sheet for as long as possible. We are all proud to represent our country in the Euro and we fervently wish for our first win."

He also revealed that he did not expect an international call-up - he merely hoped that he would get into the U21 team. "I think I'm a bit too young to wear the national shirt, although I hope to be a good representative for my country should I be called up." He stated that 15-year-olds were too young to represent their national side, but hoped to make a strong U21 career for some years before making the final step into the national team.

He denied claims that naturalised Civfanatics did not have a feeling for their country. "We are all very proud of playing for San Marino, and we wish to progress the side through the leagues and international competitions. Of course all of us feel a certain tie to our home countries, but the national side of San Marino is very dear to us all and I can't see anyone in the club refusing a call-up if it should come."

When asked about the injuries that seemed to have ridden the team lately, Mørk said "It's just something we have to live with. Sometimes it's us, sometimes it's them. We're having a stroke of bad luck now, but we will still try to win matches and provide entertainment for the people of San Marino and the whole Civfanatics community."

 

[willemvanoranje]

San Marino run into first league loss of the season
Before the match manager San Marinese had to deal with some staff trouble he had not expected. Veteran Paul Williams, who would've played for the first time since his injury, twisted his knee in training and can't expect any minutes in a match for the next 7 days. With Klop being suspended after collecting 3 yellow cards in the league, it was necessary to do some defensive altering. Matt moved to central defence, and with both Williams and Gainford injured, Rhye had to take over on the right back position.

Faro immediatly smelled blood, so it seemed. They succesfully prevented San Marino from playing there game and got the first big chance in the 15th minute. It was Merloni who came free in the box and effectively shot the ball past Brooks: 1-0.

It took San Marino till the 23rd minute to do something back. Zezinho fired a dangerous shot on the Faro goal after Muijzer's header had placed him free, but Orlandi stood in the way of the equaliser.

In the 34th minute Faro expanded their lead, when Paco Suares came up from the right and placed the ball in Brooks left-hand corner. The San Marino defence that played a decent match, looked exceptionally weak on this goal. No wonder goalkeeper Brooks was in a rage.

The last action in the first half was for Muijzer. The quick winger-striker reacted on a long ball by Matt and came face to face with Orlandi, the Faro goalkeeper. Orlandi proved to be the stronger of the two though, and parried the shot.

In the second half San Marino proved they wouldn't let this happen to them that easily. A fine cross by Muijzer put Stoop in an excellent scoring position, and where everyone expected a half-volley, the striker dived and put his head to the ball: 2-1.

With still 35 minutes to go after the 2-1, San Marino went searching for the equaliser. It was found in the 68th minute, when again Stoop scored after Muijzer placed him free on the edge of the penalty area. Orlandi rushed out, but could not prevent the goal: 2-2.

Faro did not accept this though, and it took them only 2 minutes to regain the lead. Man of the match Marloni headed in the 3-2 after a mistake by Rhye had enabled Paco Suares to cross.

With new strength San Marino tried to find a gap in the Faro defence for another equaliser. Lady luck was with the opponent though. A quick counter ended with a pass by Abete that was volleyd in by Merloni, who scored yet again.

Manager San Marinese wasn't upset with his team. The two teams seemed equal on the pitch, it was just that Faro made better use of the chances. "We can't stay unbeaten forever anyway." he said. San Marino still lead the league on goal difference.

Faro - San Marino 4-2
'55 Stoop
'68 Stoop

1. Brooks 8
2. Rhye 7
3. Mørk 8
4. Matt 8
5. Christian 8
6. Prettyvacant 6
7. Visinoni 6
8. Zezinho (c) 8
9. Hitro 7
10. Muijzer 8
11. Stoop 8

 

[willemvanoranje]

San Marino proved yesterday that last weeks loss was nothing but an incident. In a match that started off slow, the Civfanatics wandered to a 3-0 victory with ease. Man of the match was captain Zezinho who finally showed his ability to score again.

It took San Marino more than half an hour before they scored the first goal against Brescello, the number 14 of the league. For thirty minutes the game took place on Brescello's half, but real chances were not created by the home team.

In the 32nd minute the 6000 at Olimpico could finally cheer, when Zezinho passed the ball to Stoop, who put his head against the ball. At first the goalkeeper stopped the ball on the line, but in an attempt to clear the ball, Brescello defender Morello put the ball in his own goal: 1-0.

Eight minutes later in the 40th minute it was Mørk who flicked a ball on to Muijzer. Muijzer shot the ball low across Sardini, but the ball hit the post and Morello cleared, this time without scoring an own goal. At half-time San Marino lead 1-0.

Just two minutes in the second half had been played when Olimpico was shaken by the scream of San Marino left full back Mørk, who had been brought down by the Brescello striker. He had to leave the pitch and was replaced by Macarela, who made his first appearance in the team.

Convinced that the foul on Mørk had not been an accident, San Marino captain Zezinho raised his efforts to far over his limits. In the 51st minute Stoop nodded on a ball to him, and Zezinho shot it past the goalkeeper. A furious strike: 2-0.

Ten minutes later Prettyvacant, who's been relatively anonymous in the last few games, fired an excellent cross from the right corner flag. Stoop, slightly dispossitioned, headed the ball towards the goal, but goalkeeper Sardini saved without much trouble.

San Marino began to attack more and more, seeing many oppurtunities. In the 66th minute it was Muijzer who failed to score with his head, and in the 70th minute Hitro's long shot went just centimeters wide. The following goalkick was headed back on Brescello's half by central defender Klop. Zezinho picked up the ball, ran past 3 defenders and scored with a beautiful shot in the left corner: 3-0.

The game went on being dominated by San Marino. In the 76th minute Hitro fired a long shot on goal, this time it went over the bar. Zezinho even got a great oppurtunity on completing his hattrick. Well in extra time Klop passed the ball over 30 meters to Muijzer, who headed it on to the San Marino captain. Zezinho took the ball on the chest, dribbled inside the area and fired a shot, but the ball went wide. Immediatly the referee whistled for the final signal, and the game had ended in a 3-0 victory for San Marino, who continue to share the lead in the league with favourite Florentia Viola.

San Marino - Brescello 3-0
'32 Morello (og)
'51 Zezinho
'70 Zezinho

1. Brooks 7
2. Matt 8
3. Mørk 8 (48' Macarela 8)
4. Klop 8
5. Christian 8 (83' Gainford 7)
6. Prettyvacant 7 ('83 Alone 6)
7. Visinoni 8
8. Zezinho (c) 9
9. Hitro 8
10. Muijzer 9
11. Stoop 9

 

[willemvanoranje]

San Marino the only leaders in Serie C2/B
The loss of up to yesterday co-leaders Florentia Viola put San Marino in a 3 point lead over Florentia and Gubbio, the only team that's without a loss this season. After an easy 3-0 win over Sassuolo, the San Marino board declared itself pleased once again.

Even though Williams was still not training with the rest of the group, manager San Marinese did decide to put him on the bench in yesterday's match. From his seat in the dug-out he saw an eager San Marino starting off putting a lot of pressure on their opponent. After just 80 seconds it was Matt who swung in a near post cross from the right that was headed towards the goal by Muijzer, but Ginesta saved. This immediatly set the atmosphere in which the firs half would be played.

The 'Civfanatics' barely lost possession and kept trying to find a hole in the Sassuolo defence. It took the San Marinese players 15 minutes before a decisive gap was found: Mørk hit a 45 meter pass to Visinoni. He chipped the ball into the penalty area and it was the captain Zizinho who picked it up, turned around and fired the ball at the top corner from a tight angle. A milisecond later the net was shaking and goalkeeper Ginesta saw his first goal against of the match: 1-0.

It took San Marino another fifteen minutes to find the second hole. This time a bad pass by Giandebiaggi on the midfield was intercepted by Hitro, who immediatly passed it to Zezinho. He chipped to ball to Stoop on the edge of the area, and he set the ball flying from distance, somehow beating the goalkeeper: 2-0.

The third goal didn't seem far away, nonetheless it took San Marino 10 minutes before the ball was in for the third time. Muijzer received a long ball by Hitro and headed it on to Visinoni, who crossed the ball to the far post, where Stoop headed the ball in with ease: 3-0.

In the second half San Marino geared down a bit and did not create more than two big chances: Stoop headed the ball on goal, but it lacked the power to defeat Ginesta, and Visinoni hit a ball from distance, but again Ginesta saved it.

Manager San Marinese announced a serie of 3 friendly games of which the first would be played 3 days from yesterday against Aprillia. The other two opponents and dates he did not want to name, nor did he inform the press of the reason for these mid-season friendlies. San Marino might release a press statement after the three games have been played with the reasons for and all necessary information on the matches after the last match has been played. Expected is that this will not be for some weeks. Strange enough manager San Marinese refuses to allow the press to be present at the three clashes, which feeds the various rumours around the friendlies.

San Marino - Sassuolo 3-0
15' Zezinho
30' Stoop
40' Stoop

1. Brooks 7
2. Matt 7
3. Mørk 8
4. Klop 8
5. Christian 7
6. Prettyvacant 7
7. Visinoni 8
8. Zezinho (c) 8
9. Hitro 8
10. Muijzer 8
11. Stoop 9