WEEKEND WRAP: Extended Friday & Monday (Boxing Day) English Leagues Feature

Mario Rodriguez, who had trouble making the pitch at Chemnitzer in Germany 3Liga, has been loaned out again by his club, Dynamo Dresden (who play in 2Liga). This time Mario will move to Sonnenhof in Germany's 3Liga (also the team that GK David Yelldell play's for) We certainly wish Mario all the best and are hoping to see him on the first team roster with a little more regularity. The loan starts on January 1st.

Another US Player, and hardly known, I am guessing, Noah Sadaoui joined Al-Khaboora in Oman. He actually joined them on Dec 1, from Miami United. The 23 yo Moroccan/American Striker started at NYRB Academy, before moving to Israeli team M.Haifa, who put him on a loan "rotation" 3 different Israeli teams, before letting him transfer to Ajax Cape Town in S. Africa. After a year there, he was picked up by Miami Utd (NPSL) and helped them win the league championship last season (with only 1 loss) At the end of the season Noah decided to try his luck overseas again - this time in Oman, with Al-Khaboora in the countries top tier.

This weekend is understandably short on games, but England had a full menu of games as they celebrate the holiday with the traditional 'Boxing Day' matches. All the leagues participated so there was some action from American players. We are still suffering from many injuries so star's like Geoff Cameron and Lyndon Gooch were missing from EPL games. Scotland provided a few more games to fill out the long holiday weekend. No goals, assists or shut-outs to report this week.

FRIDAY

Perry Kitchen (90), Bjorn Johnsen (90) and Hearts won't be smiling this holiday season, as they traveled to Dundee in Scotland's Premiership and gifted Dundee a 90+ minute goal, and all 3 points, as Hearts fall 3 - 2. with 1W/2D/2L in the last five matches Hearts are now 10 points behind Rangers (where once they led them) Hearts still have 4th position, but only by a point.

SATURDAY

No Games involving USA players

SUNDAY

No Games involving USA players

MONDAY

Kris Scott, started and went 80 minutes as Nuneaton visited Tamworth and came away with 3 points in a game that saw all goals scored in the first 25 minutes. Nuneaton have now won all their matches in December (3 wins) and have pulled themselves clear of the relegation zone in England's National League (North)

GK Brad Guzan spent his day on the bench as back-up for Middlesbrough as they traveled to Burnley, falling 1 - 0 in the English Premier League

Tim Ream went 90 as Fulham won 0 - 2 at Ipswich in the English Championship, as Fulham noe unbeaten in 5 matches creep closer to a promotional playoff position - 7th)

Danny Williams, back from Red Card Suspension went 90 minutes and helped Reading win their holiday match with Norwich by a comfortable 3 - 1. Reading are sitting in 3rd place, 5 points out of automatic promotion

Eric Lichaj started, went 90 and picked up a yellow card as Nottingham visited Huddersfield, losing 2 - 1 on an OG. Nottingham who looked good at the start of the season have now only managed a single point in their last 4 games.

Duane Holmes was an unused sub as Scunthorpe visited Bradford in England's League One. Scunthorpe seem to be wobbling a bit at the top of the table, with 8 points from a possible 15 in their last 5 matches, not exactly dominant. Today's goalless draw still leaves the at the top, with Sheffield Utd 1 point behind and Bolton now in the frame for an automatic promotion spot.

Gboly Ariyibi (90) and Chesterfield are now firmly entrenched in a relegation battle. They did not help themselves today as they traveled to Rochdale and were thoroughly beaten 3 - 0.

In one of those games that fans talk about years after they were played GK Brendan Moore (90) and Torquay gave up a 3 goal lead - in just 4 minutes - as visitors #4 Forest Green stunned the home team, or maybe 'woke up' would be a better description, spurring Torquay to re-assert themselves and finally pull off the 4 - 3 win, in England's National League

Jon-Paul Pittman (90) and Harrogate continued their bad recent form (1W/4L) into their home game against Stockport in England's National League (North) losing again 0 - 1

If GK Danny Rogers (90) and Falkirk want to climb out of the Scottish Championship they have got to learn how to win! Falkirk have taken the lead in more of their games, and lost or drawn, than any other team in their league. Today an early lead at Dunfermline was relinquished in the 2nd half, and the game ended 1 - 1

Kevin Dzierzawski, was an unused sub today as Peterhead fell 0 - 2 to fellow cellar-dwelling Stenhousemuir in Scotland's League One. Peterhead are now just 1 point above the drop zone and things do not look good

DeAndre Yedlin was an unused sub as Newcastle fall 0 - 1 at home to Sheffield Wednesday. I am sure that Coach Benitez and the home crowd at St James Park were not expecting this!  Worse still, Brighton, who are just 1 point behind the English Championship leaders, have a game in hand, which could see them take over the top spot tomorrow (They play QPR who are winless in their last 5) It's so tight in the promotion race, any dropped points can have devastating consequences.

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Mario Rodriguez Leaves Chemnitzer for Sonnenhof in Germany's 3Liga

Photo: USSoccer.com

US U23 striker, Mario Rodriguez, has completed his loan from Dresden to Chemnitzer. Evidently Dresden still don't need him, and he is being loaned out again for 2017, to Sonnenhof. Both Chemnitzer and Sonnenhof play in 3Liga - so its aside-ways move for Mario.

After 3 years with the junior squad of M'Gladbach, Dynamo Dresden took Mario on a free transfer, only to loan him the next day? Now back at Dresden he will be loaned out again (Jan 1st) Mario is only 22, so he has time to make a mark, he has represented the USA at U17, U20 & U23.  While at Chemnitzer (last season) he only made 4 appearances, and only starting once, so the change may be a benefit

Of Note: Sonnenhof is the home of American goalkeeper, David Yelldell. Sonnenhof  (full name - SG Sonnenhof Großaspach) currently sit in 7th place in 3Liga - will re-start their season in early February after the Winter Break.

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WEEKEND WRAP: Friday, Saturday and Sunday - A Weekend with Returns, as the Pre-Holiday/Winter Break Arrives and Injuries Take Their Toll

Ryan Malone has left Naestved in Denmark, and has returned to Sweden with IFK Varnamo in Allsvenskan (top tier). 

Winger, Dion Acoff is leaving Throttur, who were relegated, in Iceland, for Valur in Iceland's Pepsideild (top tier)

Lots of player movement rumors as January 1 contracts reach there finalization and clubs decide on re-ups or cuts. I expect quite a lot of changes coming, and like last year many will be from players returning home (to MLS) We are keeping an eye on the comings and goings, and will report moves here and on twitter as soon as they happen.

This weekend had a greatly reduced number of American's participating. With the Scandinavian leagues complete, and an unusually high number of injury's to our players, and the Winter/Holiday breaks upon us USA players were only seen in 8 countries this weekend. But some news is definitely on the up-side. First, Texas' Keaton Parks scored his first professional goal for Varzim in Portugal, Bobby Wood found the back of the net in his first start since his suspension, Alfredo Morales back from injury scored in Ingolstadt's win, and Desevio Payne was in the 18 for Groningen in the Netherlands for the first time since August.

So the lists, even those who like to keep it short will have no trouble spending time with this weeks comprehensive list of action below

GOALS
Bobby Wood - Germany
Bjorn Johnsen - Scotland
Keaton Parks - Portugal
Alfredo Morales - Germany

ASSIST
Gboly Ariyibi - England

SHUT OUT
Kenneth Kronholm - Germany
Brendan Moore - England

FRIDAY

GK Justin vom Steeg went 90 as #15 Dusseldorf II took on #4 Rot-Weiss Essen in Germany's Regionalliga (West) and won 2 - 1

GK David Yelldell sat on the bench for Sonnenhof as they played Erfurt in Germany 3Liga and won this one 2 - 1

The third GK on Friday's games, Quentin Westberg also sat on the bench as Tours traveled to Le Havre in France's Ligue 2 and gained all 3 points in an 0 - 2 win. Tours have finally broken out of the red zone (after 2 wins/2 draws in the last 4 games)

NAC Breda and Shane O'Neill (90) welcomed FC Emmen to Rat Verlegh Stadion and had little trouble winning 3 - 1 in Netherlands Eerste Divisie. NAC Breda are now tied 6th (GD) with 2 other teams.

#5 Dortmund and Christian Pulisic (83) had all they could handle as they visited #3 Hoffenheim and drew 2 - 2 despite being 2 - 1 down and with only 10 men for the whole 2nd half.

Kyle Scott went 60, picked up a yellow, as Chelsea U23 hosted Croatia's Dinamo Zagreb II in the Premier League International Cup ( Group D) in London, and lost 0 - 1. Chelsea's 2nd group game, they are now 1 win/1loss in third place (GD) - Swansea and Zagreb are tied at the top with 4 points a piece.

SATURDAY

Russell Canouse started the 2nd half for Bochum as they traveled to St Pauli in Germany's 2Liga and snagged a point in a 1 - 1 draw

Devante Parker went 90 in Mainz II 1 - 0 loss at Fortuna Koln in Germany 3Liga. Mainz II are in real trouble sitting at the bottom of the table

Shawn Barry (90) and FSV Frankfurt won their home game 3 - 1 over Wehen in 3Liga. FSV's first win in a while moves them 6 points clear of the drop zone.

Royal Fennell went 90, but could not get by GK Kenneth Kronholm (90) as 10 man Hallescher were held to a goalless draw at home by Kiel. A good Shut Out for Kenneth

Marc Heider was missing from the 18 today for Osnabruck, but Robbie Kristo represented, joining the game at minute 59 as they visited Paderborn in 3Liga. Giving up 3 goals in the first 30 minutes was just to much to overcome for Osnabruck as they fall 3 - 1

Jann George went 84, and Scored Regensburg's opening goal as they went on to win 3 - 1 over Munster in 3Liga

Mario Rodriguez made a cameo appearance (coming on in the 90th minute) as Chemnitzer traveled to Rostock and had little problem overcoming their 3Liga opponent 1 - 3, moving them up to 5th place

Aron Johannsson came off the bench at minute 75, picked up a yellow, in Bremen's 1 - 1 draw with FC Koln, in Bundesliga. Bremen now unbeaten in their last 4. These were Aron's first minutes on the pitch since late October

Bobby Wood (84) started and Scored Hamburg's only goal as they visited Mainz, falling 3 - 1 in Bundesliga. Bobby's goal game his team the early lead. Hamburg are in the red zone (3rd from bottom) but it may not be that bad as they have a pretty good run going, unbeaten, until today, in their previous 4 games

NOTE: Both Fabian Johnson and John Brooks did not make the 18 for their clubs today in Bundesliga - due to injury and Timothy Chandler will miss today's match due to red card suspension

Bjorn Johnsen (74) and Perry Kitchen (90) both started for Hearts, with Bjorn Scoring Heart's only goal as they drew 1 - 1 with Partick in the Scottish Premier League, a result that will disappoint Hearts (Partick are bottom of the table) and leaves them in 4th place (GD).

For about 2 minutes it looked like Falkirk and GK Danny Rogers (90) would get out of Dumbarton with a point, unfortunately a quick response from the home side put an end to that. Falkirk are now a distant 3rd in the league, and are receiving pressure from the 2 teams immediately below them

Kevin Dzierzawski (54) and Peterhead held on in the first half against East Fife before falling 2 - 0 in the 2nd. Both these teams sit 2 points above the drop zone at 19 points each

In England's Premier League, GK Brad Guzan sat watching from bench as Middlesbrough beat Bob Bradley's Swansea 3 - 0

NOTE: Geoff Cameron and Lyndon Gooch both did not make their clubs 18 today - due to injury

In England's Championship, DeAndre Yedlin went 90 as Newcastle visited Burton and won 1 - 2. Newcastle seem to have recovered from their 2 losses earlier this month with today's win that's 3 in a row, and they have cemented their lead at the top of the league

Not a good day for Eric Lichaj (90) and Nottingham as they lose 0 - 2 at home to Wolves, in the Championship. That's just 1 point from the last 3 games.

GK Paul Rachubka got a rare start for Bury today as they hosted Oxford (who are unbeaten in their last 5) and for a while the home team looked good for a point. Then tragedy, as an OG spoiled the day and Bury fall 2 - 3 to Oxford in England's League One

Gboly Ariyibi went 90 (Assist) as Chesterfield continued their recent good form as they welcomed #3 Bolton in their League One match-up and won 1 - 0. The win takes them out of the drop zone, on GD, and their is still hope, as Chesterfield have won 3 of their last 5, that they will escape relegation

Duane Holmes was questionable for today's game at Scunthorpe, and although in the 18 he did not play. Scunthorpe saw off Millwall 3 - 0 to maintain their lead at the top of England's League One

GK Brendan Moore (90) gets the Shut Out for Torquay as they traveled to York and survived a fright (disallowed goal) to earn an away point in a goalless draw in England's National League

Jon-Paul Pittman (90) and Harrogate drop points as they lose 1 - 0 at Curzon Ashton in England's National League (North)

Keaton Parks (90 - subbed out at 90) gets his first professional goal in Portugal as Varzim traveled to Famalicao and won 0 - 2 and move into the 10th spot in Portugal's Segunda Liga

In England's Championship, Jonathan Spector (90 - subbed at 90+2 with injury) as Birmingham gave up 2 late goals (the winner at 90 +4) and lost 1 - 2 to #2 Brighton. Birmingham are still only 3 points out of a promotional play-off spot though!

In Netherlands Eredivisie Rubio Rubin was an unused sub for Utrecht as they traveled to Roda in a game that ended in a goalless draw. Although this is a game you would expect Utrecht to win (Roda are 2nd from bottom) They are still in the mix (6th) for a Europa League Play-Off spot

Even though Matt Miazga scored for Vitesse in a mid-week game, he only made the bench today as an unused sub, as Vitesse falls at Feyenoord 3 - 1

Matt Wiesenfarth started for #6 Canterbury United as they visited #1 Team Wellington in New Zealand's Premier League. In a game that saw 6 goals and 2 red cards (1 each team) the game finally ended with a 3 -3 draw

SUNDAY

GK Benjamin Machini was on the bench today as Barakaldo traveled to Majadahonda and came away with a win after a last gasp goal ending 1 - 2 in Spain's Segunda Division B (Group 2)

Shaq Moore went 90 as #19 Levante UD B traveled to #3 Badalona in Spain's Segunda Division B (Group 3) and were out-classed by the home team, losing 3 - 1

Andrew Wooten went 90 as #9 Sandhausen visited #2 Hannover in Germany's 2Liga and snagged an away point in a goalless draw

The last time Desevio Payne was in the 18 for Groningen was August 5th, his recovery seems to be in its final stages as he spent today's game on the bench as Groningen and GA Eagles played to a 1 - 1 draw. It's good to see the USYNT player back, next up play time.

In only his 2nd appearance since coming back from injury Alfredo Morales (90) Scored with his head to give Ingolstadt the lead at Leverkusen in Bundesliga. Out since the end of October the USMNT player looks to be back on track as he helped Ingolstadt win away from home and grab 3 very valuable points in the 1 - 2 win.

Joshua Perez has now been on the bench 5 times (including today) not in the squad twice, and appeared once for Fiorentina since November 11th. Today Joshua watched as he and his team visited #3 Lazio in Serie A, the final score was 3 - 1 in favor of Lazio

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WEEKEND WRAP: Friday, Saturday, Sunday - Features Goals in Germany, Goalkeeper Rumors

So rumors/speculation/reports have 2 USMNT Goalkeepers on the move soon. Brad Guzan (Middlesbrough) to Atlanta United and Ethan Horvath (from Molde) to Club Brugge (Belgium). As of today's reports Brad Guzan to Atlanta looks pretty certain, but we will have to wait a little for Ethan's move to the Belgium Champions Club Brugge (they are currently 2nd 1 point behind) likely after Jan 1. Guzan will adjust quickly defending the goal for Atlanta, not my personal favorite, but has had to play on a number of teams with no defensive plans, so his numbers may look a little off his experience will be extremely valuable to the side as they begin play in MLS.

In Malta's Premier League, Chino Hills, CA Forward Michael Shaddock has joined Hibernians, where Mid-fielder Kyle O'Brien has already debuted (Kyle was previously at Pembroke in Malta). Hibernians currently are top of the Premier League. So we have 2 Americans playing on the same team in Malta - who knew?

This weekend saw the German scoreboards light up with US Goals - especially Devann Yao's Hat-trick for BAK07 - even if it was in a losing cause. The young American's struck again this weekend with Russell Canouse (21) getting his first professional goal. Scoring Bochum's winner. Kevin Coleman (18) for Kaiserslautern, Alec Becker (18) for Freiberg and Joel Sonora (20) for Stuttgart. Conor O'Brien had one of those day's scoring and assisting in Horsens win in Denmark. Of course whenever you want a goal - you always have Jon-Paul Pittman in England - yup on the scoreboard again.

OK here is the short and the long of it - starting with the short list - then leading in with the more comprehensive one.....

GOALS
Conor O'Brien - Denmark
Bryan Gaul - Germany
Kevin Coleman - Germany
Alec Becker - Germany
Russell Canouse - Germany
Royal Fennell - Germany
Jon-Paul Pittman - England
Joel Sonora - Germany
Devann Yao (3) - Germany

ASSIST
Conor O'Brien - Denmark

SHUT OUT
None

Here is the long/comprehensive list....

FRIDAY

Horsens seem to have broken out of their funk, with a 3 - 0 win over Aalborg. Conor O'Brien had a big part of this win, scoring the 3rd Goal and an Assist on the first. Horsens are not in the top 6 of the Denmark Super Liga table just yet (Play-Off) but should get back on track with the regular season ending soon

Jerome Kiesewetter has not played since November 4th, today he was unused again, as Dusseldorf fell 0 - 2 to Nurnberg in Germany's 2Liga

Bryan Gaul scored the 3rd goal for Offenbach as he went 90, and picked up a yellow in his teams 3 - 0 win in Regionalliga (Sudwest)

GK Quentin Westberg was an unused sub in Tours 1 - 1 draw with Laval in France Ligue 2. Tours are in deep trouble, but have plenty of time to get themselves in a better position

In Netherlands Eerste Divisie, NAC Breda and Shane O'Neill (90) were hit for 6 at Eindhoven who have jumped past Breda in the standings. Final 6 - 2

2 young American's Kyle Scott (90) Chelsea U23 and Matt Olosunde (90) Manchester United U23 faced off in a Chelsea U23 3 - 1 win in England's EPL2

In a game that turned into a battle, Timothy Chandler (2/Y Red) and Frankfurt held on for a 0 - 0 draw with Hoffenheim in Bundesliga. Timothy picked up 2 yellows in under 10 minutes

SATURDAY

In Junior Bundesliga (Sud) Kevin Coleman (76) Scored Kaiserslautern U19's 3rd Goal, and Cory Anton went the full 90 as Kaiserslautern U19 won 2 - 0 over 1860 Munich

All the goals came in the first 15 minutes as GK Will Pulisic and Dortmund U19 traveled to Munster U19 and won 1 - 2, in Junior Bundesliga (West)

Alec Becker (72) Scored Freiburg U19 first Goal, as they fell late to Nurnburg U19 in a 3 - 2 goal-fest, in Junior Bundesliga (Sud)

Also in Junior Bundesliga (Sud) Timothy Tillman went 90 as Bayern U19 visited Stuttgart Kickers U19 and won their contest 0 - 2

Haji Wright went 89 minutes as Schalke U19 won 0 - 2 at Duisburg U19 in Junior Bundesliga (West) Schalke U19 are now 1 point ahead of Dortmund U19 at the top of the table, by 1 point.

Russell Canouse (90) Scored his first professional goal for Bochum, as they were successful in their home game 1 - 0 against 1860 Munich in Germany's

2Liga. This was Bochum's first win since October 30th. Shawn Barry went 90 in FSV Frankfurt's goalless draw at Bremen II in Germany's 3Liga

Chemnitzer and Mario Rodriguez (17) could not hold off Jann George (68) and the Regensburg attack as they fall at home 0 - 3 in 3Liga

It's always good to see 2 US GK's matched up - unfortunately Sonnenhof left GK David Yelldell on the bench as they traveled to Kiel to face off with GK Kenneth Kronholm (90) in a game that had Sonnenhof win 1 - 2 on an 89th minute goal in 3Liga

Marc Heider (90 + Yellow), and Osnabruck won their home match in Germany's 3Liga 1 - 0 over Zwickau, as Robbie Kristo sat this one out on the bench

Royal Fennell, who missed out last week, was on target for Hallescher as he Scored their Goal, and picked up a Yellow in his 90 minute run-out as Hallescher visited Wehen, in 3Liga

Christian Pulisic was an unused sub as Dortmund scored a 90th minute goal to tie things up 1 -1 at FC Koln in Bundesliga. Dortmund retain their 6th place in the league

Bobby Wood got 23 minutes in as Hamburg won at home against Augsburg in Bundesliga. This was Bobby's 2nd appearance since his 3 match suspension

Alfredo Morales played his first game since 22nd October as he went 90 minutes in Ingolstadt's 1 - 0 win over leaders RB Leipzig in Bundesliga

Andrija Novakovich went 76 minutes for Reading U23 as they fell 3 - 1 at Manchester City U23 in EPL2 - Manchester City U23 are now league leaders

In England today - it was miserable for US players - nobody played in the Premier League (injuries and MIA) In the Championship Newcastle & Reading both won, but Yedlin (in 18/DNP) Birmingham's Johnathan Spector (3 game suspension) and Williams (3 match suspension) all missed out. And all 3 teams in League 1 lost....read on.

In England's Championship, Newcastle, DeAndre Yedlin (in 18/DNP) won 4 - 0 over Birmingham (Johnathan Spector - 3 match suspension) to maintain their 1 point lead in the league. Birmingham slip to 7th

Reading and Danny Williams (3 match suspension) won their game against Sheffield Wednesday 2 - 1. Reading sit in 3rd place in the Championship

Fulham and Tim Ream (90+2) drew 4 - 4 at Wolves as they traded the lead 3 times with cellar dwelling Wolves.

In England's League 1, GK Paul Rachubka resumed his bench warming position as Bury traveled to Bristol Rovers and lost 4 - 2

Gboly Ariyibi got 23 minutes for Chesterfield as they fall 5 - 2 at Peterborough in League One

Duane Holmes went 66 minutes in Scunthorpe's loss at Rochdale. Scunthorpe are still holding the league lead, but it is down to 3 points after 2 poor performances which have provided only 1 point (from 6)

GK Brendan Moore and Torquay exited the FA Trophy falling 2 - 0 at Braintree

Jon-Paul Pittman (88) Scored Harrogate's 3rd Goal in a 3 - 3 draw in the FA Trophy against Barrow (who tied things up in minute 88) they will replay the game later next week

Eric Palmer-Brown (90) and FC Porto B came away 1 - 2 winners as they visited Sporting B in Portugal's Segunda Division

In Scotland's Premier League, Perry Kitchen (90 + Yellow), Bjorn Johnsen (90) and Hearts, could not stop Rangers as they fall 2 - 0. Hearts have slipped to 4th with the loss after a poor run of results

GK Danny Rogers (90) and Falkirk gave up the lead twice as they are held to a 2 - 2 draw with Queen of the South in Scotland's Championship

Kevin Dzierzawski never got off the bench today as Peterhead gave up the lead and ended in a 1 - 1 draw with Alloa in Scotland's League One

In Germany's Regionalliga (Sudwest) Stuttgart II and Joel Sonora (90) win 4 - 1 over Charlie Rugg (90) and Pirmasens - Joel Scored Stuttgart II's 4th Goal

Joe Gyau made a cameo appearance (coming on in the 90th minute) for Dortmund II as they beat Wattenscheid 1 - 0 in Regionalliga (West)

Justin Kinjo went 90, picked up his 2nd yellow of the season, as Dusseldorf II beat Viktoria Koln 1 - 0 in Regionalliga (West)

Piakai Henkel got 18 minutes in as Bahlinger SC beat Hollenbach 4 - 2 in Oberliga (Baden-Württemberg)

In Portugal Segunda Division, Keaton Parks joined the game late (88) and Varzim scored on a PK that Keaton had a hand in, to win 2 - 1 over #3 Cova De Piedade. Much needed points, as Varzim has now lifted themselves out of the red zone, still more to do to survive though.

In Switzerland Super League, Vaduz and Caleb Stanko (77) managed a 1 - 1 draw with Lausanne (on a 90+4 minute PK) Vaduz are tied for bottom place, 3 points will get them to safety.

In Bundesliga, John Brooks was rested (ankle injury) as Hertha face Bremen and Aron Johannsson, who was an unused sub. Disaster early for Hertha, who lost their other starting CB. Bremen scored and then held on for the 0 - 1 win. The loss cost Hertha the opportunity to catch up to RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich, and reduced their 3rd place lead to just 1 point.

In New Zealand Premiership, Matt Wiesenfarth started for Canterbury United as they beat Eastern Suburbs 2 - 0, as they get back to winning ways.

SUNDAY

Shaq Moore went 90 as Levante UD B were held to a goalless draw with CD Alcoyano in Spain's Segunda Division B (Group 3)

Matt Miazga was an unused sub as Vitesse traveled to Sparta Rotterdam in Netherlands Eredivisie and won 0 - 1. Vitesse are in 7th place in the league

Nottingham Forest, with Eric Lichaj going 90 and picking up a yellow, were no match today for home team Derby County as they fall hard 3 - 0 in England's Championship

BAK 07 had Devann Yao to Score a HAT-TRICK for them, but it did not matter as RB Leipzig II hit back with a 3 - 5 road win in Germany's Regionalliga (Nordost)

Fafa Picault came off the bench in the 78th minute, to help St Pauli consolidate their 0 - 2 win at Furth in Germany's 2Liga

Andrew Wooten went 90 in Sandhausen's goalless draw at home to Wurzburger in 2Liga

Devante Parker, started and went 76 minutes as Mainz II fell 0 - 2 at home to Lotte, in Germany's 3Liga. With only 3 wins in 18 games Mainz II looks destined for Regionalliga next season

Rubio Rubin sat on the bench and watched as Utrecht won their home game with Heracles in Netherlands Eredivisie. Utrecht are in 6th place, 1 point above Vitesse

GK Brad Guzan, did not play for Middlesbrough today, but he was the only American on a Premier League roster this weekend. Middlesbrough visited Southampton and lost 1 - 0

GK Benjamin Machini on the bench for Barakaldo as they hosted Fuenlabrada in Spain's Segunda Division B (Group 2) The game ended in a 1 - 1 draw, with Barakaldo's goal scorer being sent off for a straight red minutes after his goal.

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WEEKEND WRAP: Friday, Saturday, Sunday - Features Goals and the Fall of Prominence for US Players in Sweden

The news out of Sweden is not so good, a traditionally strong location for US Players, sees a continuing reduction in an American presence next season (at least, as of today). Despite having 2 teams promoted from Superettan, we could find ourselves with only 2 American's in the top tier, Allsvenskan, and one in 2nd tier, Superettan, assuming that no other players are brought in.

Illinois, Patrick Hopkins has been released by IK Sirius who have just been promoted to Swedish top tier Allsvenskan. Patrick, a 28 year old Center Back, was a mainstay at the Sirius since joining the club in January of 2014 (from Ljungskile SK) Patrick also spent time with Brisbane Wolves in Australia. I have no doubt that Patrick will sign with a new club (the official end-of-contract with Sirius is December 31st 2016)

California's Tristan Bowen has his contract up at AFC United on December 31st, and as a 'bit player' he may not survive at the club now they promoted to Allsvenskan. Tristan could find his way back to MLS where he played for LA Galaxy, Chivas USA, Seattle and NE Revolution before moving to Sweden.

Wisconsin's Andrew Stadler's contract with Ostersunds is up on December 31st, (some sites have the center forward gone already)

Illinois GK Matt Pyzdrowski's contract is not up at Helsingborgs IF until 31st of December 2017. Helsingborgs were relegated to Superettan. Matt had an up and down season his positioning as #1 or #2 Keeper may come down to movement by other players.

As reported earlier, Paul Torres (Dual US/VZ) was released by Assyriska who were relegated from Superettan to Division 1. 

Also of note Romain Gall (Dual US/France) left Nykoping in Sweden's Division 1 a few weeks ago. The US U20 & ex Columbus Crew mid-fielder, will certainly be snapped up quickly. Nykopings website states that Romain is looking for a club of higher status.

So it looks like we could see our Swedish (Allsvenskan) contingent down to 3 players - Brendan Hines-Ike who has a long-term contract in place with Orebro SK and GK Josh Wicks who just signed with Sirius, both playing in the the top tier Allsvenskan. One in Superettan, GK Matt Pyzdrowski, who has another year on his contract, ( and I am guessing here), None in Division 1 as Jochen Graf  (Dual US/Ger) has his contract finishing up with Oskarhamns, Division 1 (South), on Dec 31st, my expectation is a release here. As stated above, Romain Gall has already been released by Nykoping Division 1 (North)

So there it is from prominence to minimal in Sweden.

Just wanted to start today's wrap with an apology for an error concerning Japan' Yamaga. The promotional playoff was a single game, not as I reported a 2 leg match-up. Yamaga lost the game and will continue to play in J-League 2 next season (sad) congratulations to them and Illinois, GK Daniel Schmidt who had an amazing 20 Shut-Out Season. I believe that Daniel will move back (he was on loan) to Vegalta Sendai in Japan's Top Tier.

OK, this week, sadly not a stellar week for our boys. There were 8 goals, but only 5 players scored. Great to see Washington DC native Jordan Siebatcheu hit 3, although the competition was somewhat lacking. Jon- Paul Pittman had a great game scoring twice for Harrogate giving them the win. Bjorn Johnsen scored for Hearts, his 3rd of the season, seems to found his touch and Hearts now have him as a starter. Andrew Wooten moves up to 4th in the 2Liga Golden Boot race with his 8th. And, young Dual, defender, Toni Suddoth finds the net for the first time. There were no assists and no shut outs this week. Of note, Bobby Wood came back from his 3 game suspension, putting in 17 minutes at the end of Hamburgs game, Rubio Rubin was in Utrecht's 18 - twice, playing for the junior squad and polishing the bench for the seniors. As has been the case over the past few weeks, young Americans dominate the names on the list, as UCL, Internationals and end of season reduces the number of games being played at the senior level.

To the list. Below is the (really) short list - the full comprehensive list follow immediately after.

GOALS
Andrew Wooten - Germany
Jordan Siebatcheu (3) - France
Toni Suddoth - Germany
Jon-Paul Pittman (2) - England
Bjorn Johnsen - Scotland


FRIDAY

Fafa Picault was an unused sub in St.Pauli's goalless draw at home to Kaiserslautern in Germany's 2Liga - Fafa's first 18 for a few games

Jann George got 24 mins off the bench in Regensburg's 0 - 1 loss at home to Erfurt in Germany's 3Liga. Regensburg started the season full of promise, has now lost 3 of their last 4 and slipped a long way down the table

GK David Yelldell was back-up GK today as Sonnenhof got a very late goal to win 2 - 1 over Wehen in Germany's 3Liga, breaking a 2 game losing streak

Dallas Aminzadeh only went 35 mins before being subbed out (assume injury) as Oldenburg visited Hannover II and grabbed a point in this 1 - 1 draw in Regionalliga (Nord)

Rubio Rubin went 90 for Jong Utrecht in their Eerste Divisie 3 - 1 win over FC Emmen

Shane O'Neill went 90 in NAC Breda's 3 - 1 win over Almere in their Eerste Divisie match up in Netherlands

In Regionalliga (Sudwest) Charlie Rugg came off the bench at minute 16 for Pirmasens as they beat Bryan Gaul (90) Matt Taylor (7) and Offenbach 2 - 0

In the English Championship, League Leaders Newcastle totally imploded with 2 (Two) Red Cards (that ended in 2 (Two) missed PK's, and an OG (86') as they fall to Nottingham and Eric Lichaj (90) 2 - 1. DeAndre Yedlin played 90 for Newcastle and also picked up a Yellow Card very late in the game. I have a feeling that Rafa Benitez was not to happy with his team today

SATURDAY

Tim Tillman went 90 before being subbed out, as Bayern U19 drew 2 - 2 with Freiberg U19 in Junior Bundesliga (Sud)

Andrew Wooten went 90 and Scored Sandhausen's first goal as they went on to beat Nurnburg 1 - 3 in Germany's 2Liga. Shawn Parker was in 18/DNP for Nurnburg. Andrew is now 4th on the Top Scorers list for 2Liga with 8 goals

A HAT-TRICK for Jordan Siebatcheu in France's Coupe de France as Reims absolutely destroys amateur club Villeneuve Metropole 0 - 7

Brooks Lennon started for Liverpool U23 as they visited Leicester City U23 and fell 2 - 1 in the Premier League International Cup (Group C) Right now it looks doubtful that either team will get out of the group stage

Devante Parker went 90 as Mainz II visited Aalen in Germany's 3Liga in a game that ended goalless. Mainz II are having a horrible season and are now bottom of 3Liga.

Marc Heider (90) Robbie Kristo (29) and Osnabruck scored first and held on as they traveled to Fortuna Koln in 3Liga and managed a 1 - 1 draw, which keeps them in first place in 3Liga

Royal Fennell was missing from Hallescher's home game against Bremen II today because of a red card suspension, but Hallescher still won 2 - 0 and they are now one step closer to to the top spot (held by Osnabruck)

NOTE: Currently the top five teams in 3Liga (Osnabruck, Hallescher, Duisburg, Kiel & Chemnitzer) all have Americans in their squad. They are only separated by 3 points

GK Kenneth Kronholm, went 90 as Kiel traveled to Rostock, and came away with all 3 points in a 1 - 4 win in 3Liga

Corey Anton (90) Kevin Coleman (81) as Kaiserslautern U19 visited Stuttgart Kickers U19 and won 0 - 1 in Junior Bundesliga (Sud)

Toni Suddoth went 82 and Scored Stuttgart U19's only goal as they fall 1 - 3 to Ingolstadt U19 in Junior Bundesliga (Sud)

Good to see Aron Johannsson back from injury (and on the bench) as Bremen beats Ingolstadt 2 - 1 in Bundesliga. Alfredo Morales still out with a knee injury.

Christian Pulisic (12) and Dortmund beat up on M'Gladbach and Fabian Johnson (12) 4 - 1 with both American's entering the game at the same break (weird) with 12 minutes left to play (maybe because Bruce Arena was in the house?)

John Brooks (90) and Hertha, came back from 2 - 1 down to beat Wolfsburg 2 - 3, on a 90+1 PK

NOTE: Currently the top 6 in Bundesliga includes 5 teams (Bayern, RB Leipzig, Hertha, Dortmund & Frankfurt) that have American's in their squad. They are separated by 6 points

Joel Sonora (33) for Stuttgart II as they visit Saarbrucken in Regionalliga (Sudwest) and come away winners by a 0 - 2 margin

Ryan Malone got 73 minutes in as Stuttgart Kickers got thumped 0 - 3 by Homburg in Regionalliga (Sudwest)

Cameron Carter-Vickers was an unused sub as Tottenham destroyed Bob Bradley's Swansea 5 - 0 in England's EPL

Another 5 - 0 whooping, this time in the English Championship, where Danny Williams got a straight Red and Reading fell 5 - 0 at Fulham, where Tim Ream went 90.

And another 0 - 5 drubbing, as Chesterfield and Gboly Ariyibi get booted from the FA Cup by Wycombe

Both Conor O'Brien (Horsens) and George Fochive (Viborg) stayed on the bench as visitors Viborg won 1 - 2 in the Danish Superliga

Jon-Paul Pittman Scored Twice, as Harrogate beat Telford 2 - 1 in England's National League (North) breaking a rough period of 3 losses and 1 draw.

Bjorn Johnsen (90) Scored Hearts opening goal as they give up a 2 - 1 lead in the 86th minutes as Ross County fight back to get a 2 - 2 draw with (then) 2nd place Hearts. Captain, Perry Kitchen went 90, in what would seem to be a disappointing result as Hearts slip to 3rd behind Rangers

Things didn't look good for (GK) Danny Rogers and Falkirk as they gave up the first goal to visitors St.Mirren, but 3 unanswered goals gave them the resulting 3 - 1 win in Scotland's Championship and kept them in contention for promotion

Kevin Dzierzawski came off the bench after 16 minutes as Peterhead welcomed Airdrieonians in Scotland's League One. Peterhead found themselves down 0 - 3 in the first 20 minutes, a score just to much to recover from, as they fall 2 - 4

Shaq Moore went 90 as Levante UD B drew 0 - 0 with Eldense in Spain's Segunda Division B (Group 3)

GK Benjamin Machini on the bench for Barakaldo as they visited Leioa in Spain's Segunda Division B (Group 2) in their 2 - 0 loss

Piakai Henkel got on the pitch for the final 9 minutes as Bahlinger beat Karlsruher II in Oberliga (Baden-Württemberg)

GK Bakary Sanyang was on the losing side as Pfeddersheim fell 0 - 1 at home, to Rochling in Oberliga (Rheinland-Pfalz/Saar) That's 4 losses and 1 draw in their last 5 games as Pfeddersheim find themselves on a downward trajectory in the league standings

Vaduz looks doomed in Switzerland's Super League as they fall again, this time 3 - 0 to Luzern. Caleb Stanko was an unused sub again today. Vaduz needs points badly, maybe their next opponent Lausanne (who have lost their last 6 games) can provide some relief ?

Matt Miazga came off the bench at 90+4 - not sure if second's count as play time? - as Vitesse beat Zwolle 3 - 1 in Netherlands Eredivisie. Win moves them up to 7th (tied 6th) and in the mix for a play-off spot for Europa League next season
  
SUNDAY

In New Zealand Premier League, Matt Wiesenfarth played the final 12 minutes for Canterbury United as they fell 0 - 1 at Waitakere United. After a 5 game unbeaten run to start the season, Canterbury has now lost 2 straight.

Rubio Ruben was an unused sub today for Utrecht as they visited Den Haag, in Netherlands Eredivisie. Not unexpected as Rubio went 90 on Friday for the junior squad. Utrecht won this one 0 - 2, and move 1 spot above Vitesse

Haji Wright went 90 for Schalke U19 as they beat Oberhausen U19 1 - 0 to take over the #1 spot, ahead of Dortmund U19 in Junior Bundesliga (West)

Russell Canouse, got 10 minutes in as Bochum visited Bielefeld and fell 1 - 0, both teams have been struggling of late, in Germany's 2Liga

Jerome Kiesewetter was an unused sub in Dusseldorf's goalless draw at Wurzburger, also in Germany's 2Liga

Devann Yao played the last 16 minutes in BAK 07's 1 - 4 win at Lok. Leipzig in Regionalliga (Nordost)

In Germany 3Liga, Shawn Barry went 90, as FSV Frankfurt fell 0 - 1 at home to Magdeburg. Its a close race in the league, and although FSV has only 2 points from its last 4 games, they are still only 4 points out of the final promotion spot

Bobby Wood got to play 17 minutes for Hamburg as, amazingly, they won their first league game of the season 0 - 2 at Darmstadt in Bundesliga. This was Bobby's first game since 10/30 when he received a 3 game red card suspension

In Portugal's Segunda Liga, Keaton Parks started for Varzim as they traveled to Covilha, in a game that saw Varzim lose a player to a red card (61' - 2 x yellow) and miss on a PK. That made a comeback very difficult for the road team, as they lost this one 2 - 0

Jack McBean went 90 as Coventry City were well beaten by Cambridge United - 4 - 0 - in the FA Cup. Coventry are out of the competition.

Aris Briggs Zustra went 58 minutes in Osnabruck II 2 - 0 win over Bornreihe in Oberliga (Niedersachsen). Osnabruck II now in 4th place - 2 points out of 2nd.

Timothy Chandler had another strong game as Frankfurt traveled to Augsburg, in Germany's Bundesliga, and came away with a point in a 1 - 1 draw. The result helps Frankfurt maintain its 5th place spot in the league

In Norway, the relegation playoff between Stabaek and Jerv ended in a 2 - 0 win for Stabaek (2 - 1 on Agg.) So Stabaek survive and will play in Tippeligaen (will be renamed Eliteserien) in 2017. Cole Grossman was not in the 18 for today's match, raising concern as to his future with the club. (His contract is up on Dec 31st)

Eric Palmer-Brown went 90 for FC Porto B as they hosted Benfica B in Portugal's Segunda Liga. The 'Classico' ended  in a 1 - 1 draw after an 82nd minute Benfica B goal. Note: Eric was an unused sub for the senior squad in a Portuguese Cup game versus Belenenses this last Tuesday, so its safe to say he is on the cusp.

Joshua Perez was an unused sub today (after last weeks debut) for Serie A club Fiorentina as they played Palermo to a 2 - 1 win. Fiorentina moves up to 8th place in Serie A.

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WEEKEND WRAP: Friday, Saturday, Sunday - The Good, Bad & Ugly

This week was not a particularly good week for our American players. 2 own goals - Shaq Moore in Spain and Bryan Gaul in Germany both found the back of the net for the opposition!  Royall Fennell picked up a Red Card in Germany to cap-off a weekend that will not be remembered (by most) On the bright side the 2 Americans in the Scottish Premiership had a marked impact on their game with 2 goals and an assist, and in Germany Terrence Boyd, who it seems is being shopped-around by his club, continues to score goals for the B team. Two young goalkeepers had good days, with Justin vom Steeg stopping everything including a PK, while Will Pulisic is getting more play time, and showing his worth at Dortmund.

The list of "in 18/DNP" is worrying long, with Tim Ream, Matt Miazga, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Caleb Stanko and Rubio Rubin all polishing the hardwood this weekend. Admittedly, these (chosen) 5 are only on-the-cusp of the USMNT, but it will be hard for them to improve there skill sets if they are not playing. Then players, such as Emerson Hyndman after showing such promise at Fulham last season transferred up and into a black hole. There is a pretty big pool of young US players, that will set the tone for our future success - but agents and the players themselves must choose clubs where they have an opportunity to play and grow.

There have been a couple of Player Movements in Sweden........

In a surprise move, GK Josh Wicks (was AFC United captain) has left the team and joined fellow promotee's Sirius. Both teams ended on the same points total, with Sirius claiming the top spot on GD. Josh, who played for DC United, before leaving for Finland and Veikkausliiga's IFK Mariehamn, has been AFC United's #1 choice between the nets since joining in 2014. Josh's contract is up on December 31st, and Sirius (who also have American Pat Hopkins) get Josh on a free.

Paul Torres was released by Assyriska who were relegated from Sweden's Superettan - Paul was only with Assyriska a short time, joining from Promoted AFC United mid-season The 25 year-old, Univ. of Maryland Mid-fielder has played his professional career in Sweden, with short time in Norway

OK here is the (very short) list for this week

GOALS
Duane Holmes - England
Bjorn Johnsen (2) - Scotland
Terrence Boyd - Germany

ASSIST
Timothy Chandler - Germany
Perry Kitchen - Scotland

SHUT OUT
Justin vom Steeg - Germany
Will Pulisic - Germany

And the more comprehensive full listing starts here

FRIDAY

GK Justin vom Steeg gets the Shut Out (including a PK save) as Dusseldorf II win 3 - 0 at home to Bonner SC, in Regionalliga (West)

Oscar Ortiz went 90, as SC Feucht beat Ansbach 3 - 0 in Oberliga (Bayern Nord)

GK Quentin Westberg was an unused sub in Tours 2 - 1 home win against Auxerre in France Ligue 2

Shane O'Neill put in 90 minutes as NAC Breda traveled to Cambuur, falling 3 - 1 in Netherlands Eerste Divisie. After a good start to the season Breda have come off the rails somewhat

Conor O'Brien and Horsens were just overpowered by Aarhus, in Denmark's Superliga, as they fall 1 - 5 at home

In New Zealand, Ethan Dent started on the bench for Hawkes Bay in their 1 - 0 loss at leaders Auckland City

SATURDAY

Russell Canouse was an unused sub in Bochum's 2 - 2 draw at Dresden in Germany's 2Liga

Kyle Scott (81) as Chelsea U23 visited Manchester City U23 in EPL2 and came away with a 2 - 2 draw

GK David Yelldell was an unused sub as Sonnenhof traveled to Bremen II and fell 1 - 0 in Germany 3Liga

Mael Corboz was an unused sub in Duisburg's 2 - 2 draw with Aalen in 3Liga

Mario Rodriguez stayed on the bench as Chemnitzer traveled to Erfurt an won 1 - 2 also in 3Liga

Jann George went 90 as Regensburg fell 2 - 1 at Kiel who have stayed with GK Kenneth Kronholm in the net, who started and went 90

An 86th minute RED Card handed to Royall Fennell put an end to Hellecher's chances as they fall 1 - 0 at Magdeburg in 3Liga

Marc Heider (90) Robbie Kristo (in 18/DNP) and Osnabruck win big, 3 - 0 over Lotte in Germany 3Liga as Osnabruck are now in the #2 spot (tied #1 with Duisburg on 28 points - GD)

In Bundesliga, Fabian Johnson (15) and M'Gladbach were held to a 1 - 1 draw with visitors Hoffenheim

In Junior Bundesliga (Nord) McKinzie Gaines went 86 in #1 Wolfsburg U19 0 - 1 win at #2 Hertha U19

Corey Anton (17) Kevin Coleman (17) and Kaiserslautern U19 traveled to Frieburg U19 and lost 4 - 2 in Junior Bundesliga (Sud)

Timothy Chandler (90) plus Assist as Frankfurt beat Dortmund - Christian Pulisic was an unused sub - 2 - 1 in Bundesliga. Frankfurt moves up to 3rd, Dortmund drops to 6th

Charlie Rugg (23) in Pirmasens 1 - 0 loss at Koblenz in Regionalliga (Sudwest)

Joel Sonora (70) in Stuttgart II 1 - 2 loss to Waldorf in Regionalliga (Sudwest)

Piakai Henkel (7) in Bahlinger SC 1 - 0 loss at Goppinger SV n Oberliga (Baden-Wurttemberg)

George Fochive went 90 as Viborg gave up a 90+4 min goal to draw 2 - 2 with Sonderjyske in Denmark's Superliga

GK Brad Guzan was an unused sub, as Middlesbrough visited Leicester and managed a 2 - 2 draw in England's Premier League

Lyndon Gooch got 11 mins on the field as Sunderland lost 2 - 0 at Liverpool in England's Premier League

Tim Ream was an unused sub in Fulham's 2 - 1 defeat at Brighton in the English Championship

A rare home loss for Newcastle and DeAndre Yedlin (90) as they drop points at home to Blackburn in the English Championship - Newcastle still in first place

Danny Williams (90) as Reading win 2 - 1 over Bristol Rovers at Madejski Stadium in the English Championship - Reading sitting in 3rd place after 5 straight wins

Back-up GK Paul Rachubka on the bench as Bury lose 2 - 3 to Millwall, after being up 2 - 0 (a red card/PK for Millwall led to the unraveling of Bury)

Chesterfield and Gboly Ariyibi (90) held on for a 3 - 2 win at home to Bristol Rovers in England's League One

Jack McBean came off the bench for the final 15 minutes as Coventry City fell 1 - 2 to MK Dons

Duane Holmes Scored Scunthorpe's goal as they drew 1 - 1 at home to Oxford Utd. Scunthorpe are still England League One leaders

Not a good day for GK Brendan Moore as Torquay fall 2 - 1 at Tranmere in England's National League

Captain Perry Kitchen went 90 and was credited with an Assist and Bjorn Johnsen (69) Scored 2 goals as Hearts had little trouble with Motherwell in a 3 - 0 win in Scotland's Premier League

Peterhead and Kevin Dzierzawski are out of the Scottish FA Cup after a 0 - 1 loss to Alloa

An 84th minute own goal by Shaq Moore hammered the nail home as Levante UD B fell 2 - 0 at Villarreal B in Spain's Segunda Division B (Group 3)

GK Bakary Sanyang allowed 3 goals as Pfeddersheim fell 3 - 1 at Hauenstein in Oberliga (Rheinland-Pfalz/Saar)

Jon-Paul Pittman (84) as Harrogate draw 2 - 2 with Salford in the English FA Trophy - a replay will be needed to settle this one

Matt Miazga was an unused sub for the 2nd week, as Vitesse drew 2 - 2 with Excelsior in Netherlands Eredivisie

Cameron Carter-Vickers was an unused sub as Tottenham fall at Chelsea, in a London derby, in the English Premier League

SUNDAY

In Japan J-League 2, GK Daniel Schmidt and Yamaga, surprisingly, lost their 1st round playoff at home to Okayama, 1 - 2. Yamaga (top seeded) lost to the bottom seed in their effort to reach the top tier next season. They will now have to win their next game by at least 2 goals (next Saturday)

Timothy Tillman went 90 as Bayern U19 met with Frankfurt U19 and had little problem, defeating the visitors 3 - 0 in Junior Bundesliga (Sud)

GK Will Pulisic kept a clean sheet as Dortmund U19 were held to a 0 - 0 draw by Duisburg U19, in Junior Bundesliga (West)

Weston McKennie and Haji Wright both went 90 as Schalke U19 welcomed Wuppertaler U19 in Junior Bundesliga (West). Neither of the goal-scoring duo hit home today, but they were not needed as Schalke U19 had little problem in their 2 - 0 win.

Andrew Wooten went 90 for Sandhausen as they fell 0 - 1 at home to Union Berlin, in Germany's 2Liga

Toni Suddoth (90) and Stuttgart U19 fell 0 - 1 at home to league leaders Augsburg U19 in Junior Bundesliga (Sud) - Augsburg U19 have only lost once this season.

In Germany's 3Liga, Devante Parker (90 + yellow) and Mainz II held on to beat Shawn Barry (90 + yellow) and Frankfurt 1 - 0 in a close game that was decided early on with a 16th minute goal

In Regionalliga (Nordost) Terrence Boyd (90 + yellow card) Scored at the 30th minute to give RB Leipzig II the lead (albeit short lived) at Furstenwalde who replied with a 37th minute score in a 1 - 1 draw

GK Michael Lansing was an unused sub in Vejle's goalless draw at Helsingor in Denmark's Division 1

Sammy Adjei got a couple of minutes in at Naestved as they won 2 - 0 over AB Copenhagen in Denmark Division 1

Caleb Stanko sat on the bench and watched as the hapless Vaduz found their goal-scoring prowess (at least for 1 game) as they won 5 - 1 0ver Lugano in Switzerland Super League

Fabian Hurzeler went 90 in Pipinsried's 1 - 0 win over TSV Bogen in Oberliga (Bayern Sud)

In New Zealand Premiership, Canterbury suffered their first loss with a 1 - 2 home defeat by Hamilton. Matt Wiesenfarth came off the bench to help Canterbury, but it was not their day, GK Kris Schultze was an unused sub this week.

In a wild game in Regionalliga (Sudwest) Bryan Gaul (90 + OG) Matt Taylor (45) and Offenbach fell 2 - 3 to Saarbrucken. Ryan's OG was the difference in the game (Saarbrucken's 3rd) as Offenbach fought back from 0 - 3 with 2 goals in the final 15 minutes, but fell just short

Keaton Parks seems to have cemented his spot as a starter for Varzim, in Portugal's Segunda Liga. Today Keaton went 74 minutes in a 1 - 1 draw with Guimaraes B (who scored in the 83rd minute) Today's result means 1 win, 3 draws and a loss in the last 5 games. Its tight in the bottom half of the league, a few wins would relieve the pressure on Varzim

Rubio Rubin was an unused sub in Utrecht's 3 - 3 draw with #1 Feyenoord in Netherlands Eredivisie

Eric Lickert got 15 minutes in as Freiburg II thump Oberachern 5 - 0 in Oberliga (Baden-Württemberg) and take the top spot in the league

John Brooks went 90 as Hertha faced off with Mainz in Bundesliga, doing just enough to hold a slim lead in a game that ended 2 - 1. Hertha in 3rd place (tied with Frankfurt) and only trail 2nd place Bayern by 3 points

Aris Briggs Zustra went 81 for Osnabruck II as they fell 0 - 2 at home to Spelle-Venhaus in Oberliga (Niedersachsen)

GK Benjamin Machini was in back-up mode today and he had to sit and watch Barakaldo lose 0 - 1 at home to Gernika in Spain's Segunda Division B (Group 2)

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WEEKEND WRAP: Friday, Saturday, Sunday - Features 3 x 2 Goal Games & Pro/Rel in Sweden & Japan

Let's start today's wrap with some sad news. Reported earlier this week, ex New England Revolution, A.J. Soares has retired, he will not be dressed for Aarhus game this weekend - the reports have a concussion as the reason, so concussion ends another good career. Good luck in the future AJ

I added a couple of items from Thursday this week...mainly because of the play-offs in Sweden, where GK Matt Pyzdrowski is involved in a relegation battle. Otherwise its the same format as you expect. It's been a strange weekend where we have had plenty of activity from US players, but with much reduced success. We had three players score a brace for their team, but no assists (as far as I can see) and only 1 goalkeeper managed a shut-out. Some new names, as young Americans are getting their chance, Piakai Henkel, a 21 year old dual (USA/Singapore) from Florida playing with Bahlinger in Germany, USA U20 Joshua Perez made the bench for Fiorentina in Serie A, and Mael Corboz made the 18 for Duisburg.

On the Pro/Rel scene, GK Matt Pyzdrowski and Helsingborg are relegated to Superettan in Sweden. GK Daniel Schmidt and Yamaga failed to get the automatic promotion spot in Japan (on GD) but still have a chance as one of 4 teams in the J2 leagues play-off. 

OK to the list, as usual the (very) short list comes first. If you want more detail then the wrap has as much as we have identified this weekend.

The short list

GOALS
Sammy Adjei - Denmark
Haji Wright (2) - Germany
Andrew Wooten (2) - Germany
Danny Williams - England
Nermin Crnkic (2) - Bosnia

ASSISTS
No assists tracked this week

SHUT OUT
Danny Rogers - Scotland

The complete and comprehensive listing

Thursday action saw Sammy Adjei enter the game in the 78th minute and Scored for Naestved as they visited Vejle in Denmark Division 1. GK Michael Lansing was an unused sub for Vejle. With the 2nd straight loss Naestved are in trouble in the bottom 2 in the league.

In the Allsvenskan Relegation Play-off in Sweden, GK Matt Pyzdrowski and Helsingborg (Allsvenskan) drew 1 - 1 at Halmstad (Superettan) in the first leg to decide if Helsingborg will remain in the top tier. Just as a note, Helsingborg scored both goals (OG) in the game. The teams will meet at Helsingborg on Sunday

FRIDAY

In EPL2, Gedion Zelalem (90) and Arsenal U23 as they visited Tottenham U23 and won 0 - 2 Gedion was fouled in the 68th minute that led to a straight red card for Tottenham's Owen.

Marlon Fossey (90) and Luca De La Torre (90) both started for Fulham U23 as they visited Middlesbrough U23 and won handily 1 - 4 in EPL2

Omar Castro (9) came off the bench late for Braunschweig II as they lost 2 - 1 at Wolfsburg II in Regionalliga (Nord)

Connor O'Brien went 90 for Horsens in their Denmark Superliga 0 - 1 win at Lyngby, with the win Horsens moves into 6th place (Promotion Group)

Russell Canouse got 3 minutes in at the end of the 1 - 1 draw as Bochum held off visitors Braunschweig in Germany's 2Liga

Both Robbie Kristo and Marc Heider went 90 as Osnabruck visited Aalen and came away with a point in a 1 - 1 draw in Germany's 3Liga

Devann Yao played the final 4 minutes as BAK07 visited Nordhausen in Regionalliga (Nordost) and won 1 - 2

Jordan Siebatcheu off of a longish injury period came off the bench at minute 59 as Reims fell 0 - 2 at home to Laval in France Ligue 2

GK Quentin Westburg was on the bench watching Tours lose 2 - 1 to Sochaux in France Ligue 2

Shane O'Neill went 90 in #5 NAC Breda's goalless draw with #2 Venlo in Netherlands Eerste Divisie - denying Venlo first place in the league

SATURDAY

Haji Wright Scored 2 Goals in his 86 minutes on, and Weston McKennie went the whole 90 as Schalke U19 visited Leverkusen U19 in Junior Bundesliga (West) and won with ease 1 - 4

In Germany's 2Liga, Andrew Wooten Scored 2 (1 PK) as Sandhausen visited Karlsruher and won 1 - 3. Andrew went 90 minutes before being replaced in ET

In Junior Bundesliga (South) Corey Anton (17), Kevin Coleman (7) and Kaiserslautern U19 beat Frankfurt U19 2 - 1

Also in Junior Bundesliga (South) defender Toni Suddoth left the game after 28 minutes (assume injury) as Stuttgart U19 visited Nurnberg U19 and lost 2 - 1

In Serbia's Super Liga, Ismar Tandir managed 4 minutes for Javor , as they hosted Radnik and won 1 - 0, that's 3 wins in a row and 5 games without a loss for Javor as they climb up the standings

In Germany 3Liga Shawn Barry (90) and Frankfurt faced off with Duisburg where Mael Corboz was in the 18 for the first time, in a game that ended goalless.

Royal Fennell (90) and Hallescher hosted Devonte Parker and Mainz II in Germany 3Liga, and won 2 - 0 in a game that ended at 10 a-side.

Jann George (71) and Regensburg had little trouble with Wehen, as they won their home game 3 - 1, also in 3Liga

GK David Yelldell is back from injury as he was in the 18 today for Sonnenhof as they fell 1 - 3 to Magdeburg in Germany 3Liga

McKinzie Gaines went 90 as Wolfsburg U19 hosted Osnabruck U19 and after giving up a 1st half goal, came back with 4 unanswered goals in the 2nd half, to win 4 - 1 in Junior Bundesliga (Nord)

In Oberliga (Wurttemberg) Eric Lickert went 57, as Freiburg II traveled to Spielberg and drew 1 - 1. Freiberg II lead the division by 2 points, after 18 games

Piakai Henkel entered the game at minute 67 as Bahlinger SC hosted Offenburg in Oberliga (Wurttemberg) and won 3 - 1

John Brooks went 90 as Hertha traveled to Augsburg in a Bundesliga game that ended goalless. Hertha sit in 4th place

Fabian Johnson played the final 15 minutes in M'Gladbach's 1 - 2 home defeat by FC Koln. M'Gladbach are spiraling down the league, they have only 2 points from their last 5 games.

Lyndon Gooch sat on the bench for Sunderland's 3 - 0 win over Hull in England's Premier League. This was only Sunderland's second win of the season (The first was a 1 - 2 win over Bournemouth) but it takes them off the bottom, leaving Bob Bradley's Swansea who managed a 1 - 1 draw at Everton, with that dubious honor.

In the English Championship Johnathan Spector (90 + RED Card) and Birmingham hosted Bristol City and won 1 - 0. Johnathan will not be present for, at least, Birmingham's next game - which is sad as Birmingham are now in the top 5 of the league.

Tim Ream (who is seemingly out of favor) sat on the bench as Fulham managed a 1 - 1 draw at home with Sheffield Wednesday in the Championship.

Danny Williams, started, went 90 and Scored for Reading as they hosted Burton in the Championship, where they now sit in 3rd place after 4 consecutive wins

Duane Holmes went 68, as Scunthorpe beat Oldham 1 - 0 to maintain their lead of England's League One - now at 6 points over Sheffield Utd. & Bolton

GK Paul Rachubka retained his position on the bench (as back-up) for Bury Town, as they got hammered by Wimbledon 5 - 1 in England's League One

Gboly Ariyibi (90) and Chesterfield have now dropped into the pit of despair as they lost yet again - that makes 8 in a row - without a league point since September 27th - against Fleetwood 2 - 1

In England's National League, GK Brendan Moore was in the net as Torquay were held 1 - 1 at home by Wrexham

In Scotland's Championship GK Danny Rogers gets the Shut-Out as Falkirk win 0 - 1 at Ayr United

Kevin Dzierzawski came off the bench at the 60th minute as Peterhead visited Livingston in Scotland's League One and got the win 1 - 2

Ryan Malone went 68 as Stuttgart Kickers U19 fell 0 - 1 at home to league leaders Elversberg in Regionalliga (Sudwest)

Stuttgart II and Joel Sonora (64) visited Wormatia and fell 3 - 1 in Regionalliga (Sudwest)

Shawn Parker, who is on loan to Nurnberg, featured in the B team Nurnberg II as they traveled to Bayern Hof and thumped the home team 2 - 5 in Regionalliga (Bayern). Shawn went 90

Jon-Paul Pittman back from injury (playing full-time) went 90 and picked up a yellow card as Harrogate fell 2 - 1 at Brackley in England's National League (North)

GK Benjamin Machini was on the bench for today's 2 - 2 draw between, visitors, Barakaldo and Amorebieta in Spain's Segunda Division B (Group 2)

Nicholas Edginton went 90 as Samorin hosted Nove Mesto in Slovakia's 2Liga in the last game before their Winter break, the game which ended in a 1 - 1 draw now has Samorin in a points tie for 2nd place (3rd on GD)

Cameron Carter-Vickers was an unused sub in Tottenham's late (and exciting) late win 3 - 2 over West Ham in the English Premier League

Eric Lichaj went 90 as Nottingham traveled to Ipswich and got the win 0 - 2 in the English Championship.

Christian Pulisic came off the bench late - 88th min - (his first game v Bayern) to help Dortmund win 1 - 0 over giants Bayern Munich in Bundesliga. Julian Green did not get off the bench today. So, Bayern lose their first game of the season and slip to 2nd (behind the surprising RB Leipzig) and Dortmund move up to 3rd (no losses in last 5 games)

After 4 starts, Matt Miazga was an unused sub as Vitesse visited Heerenveen in Eredivisie in the Netherlands and grabbed a 1 - 1 draw putting them in 7th place, and an opportunity to make the playoffs for a Europa League spot.

Caleb Stanko sat on last place Vaduz bench as they got hit for 6 by Swiss League Leaders Basel - things do not look good for Vaduz....

SUNDAY

GK Daniel Schmidt (90) and Yamaga won 3 - 2 over Yokohama in Japan's J-League 2. This was the final regular season game for Yamaga who finished 3rd (tied 2nd) as the red hot Shimizu pipped them at the post for the 2nd automatic promotion spot. Yamaga will join the 4 team promotion Play-off.

In Bosnia's Premier League, Sarajevo and Nermin Crnkic (90) Scored twice as they beat Mladost DK 4 - 3 after leading 3 - 0 in the first half.

In Denmark's Superliga, George Fochive came off the bench with 16 minutes left as Viborg traveled to Randers, and came up a little short, dropping this one 2 - 1 - this was Viborg's 5th straight loss.

In Germany 2Liga, Jerome Kiesewetter was an unused sub as Dusseldorf visited St.Pauli and came away with the 3 points in a close 0 - 1 win

In the Allsvenskan Relegation Play-off in Sweden, GK Matt Pyzdrowski and Helsingborg (Allsvenskan) lost their 2nd leg game 1 - 2 at home to Halmstad (Superettan) and will now drop from the top tier next season on a 2 - 3 aggregate score.

Babajide Ogunbiyi (90) and Hobro have lost their mojo!! Leading Denmark's Division 1 and looking at promotion, Hobro have now lost 3 straight (and failed to score in those games) and dropped down to 3rd. Today's game was hopefully the wake up, as they were trounced 5 - 0 by Fremad Amager

Brooks Lennon started and went 66 for Liverpool U23 as they beat Reading U23 and Andrija Novakovich, who went the 90, 2 - 0 in England's Premier League 2. Liverpool U23 are solidly in 3rd, and only 3 point back of first place Everton U23 (who won today)

DeAndre Yedlin was an unused sub as Newcastle won 0 - 2 at Leeds, and continued their, seeming, dominance of the English Championship

Rubio Rubin was an unused sub for Utrecht as they visited Twente in the Netherlands Eredivisie, and played to a 1 - 1 draw

In Italy's Serie A, USA U20 Joshua Perez made the bench for Fiorentina as they visited Empoli and handed them a thumping 0 - 4. This was Joshua's first senior squad pick, although he has to wait for his first pro start, and flags his talent and future - one to watch

Aris Briggs Zustra went 90 as Osnabruck II went to Uphusen in Oberliga (Niedersachsen) and won 0 - 2. The win moves Osnabruck II up to 3rd place.

Shaq Moore went 90 as Levante UD B were held to a 1 - 1 draw with Valencia B in Spain's Segunda Division B (Group 3)

GK Brad Guzan back from USMNT duty, was on the bench as Middlesbrough fell 0 - 1 to Chelsea in the EPL

Timothy Chandler went 90 as Frankfurt traveled to Bremen and won 1 - 2 on a 90th minute goal. Frankfurt join a group of 5 teams on 21 points (3rd to 7th place) and have 5 games without a loss

Matt Wiesenfarth (12), Kris Schultz (in 18) and Canterbury United traveled to Hawkes Bay and Ethan Dent (90) managed a 1 - 1 draw and remain the only team in New Zealand's Premier League without a loss.

In Poland, Legnica and Hunter Gorskie (90) visited Gornik in a Division One match-up that Legnica won 0 - 2. Legnica move into 4th place and are within striking distance of a top 2 spot (3 points back)

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WEEKEND WRAP: Friday/Saturday/Sunday - Reduced Schedule/International Break

Today I am starting off with a prayer for those in the Canterbury region of New Zealand, following the earthquake there early Sunday morning. We hope that everyone is safe and know we are thinking of you.

This weekend has a greatly reduced schedule because of the International break and also because weather has caused the postponement of many of the remaining games in the German lower leagues, and also in Denmark. We managed a few goals, but little else, as you will see below. 

In non-game news, Andrew Stadler, who has spent his pro career in Sweden has been released by Ostersunds, who play in Allsvenskan (top tier). The 28 year old Wisconsin born forward had only 3 goals in 23 (total) games, along with 3 Assists, this past season. Andrew joined Ostersunds in August of 2015.

GOALS
Robbie Kristo - Germany (Friendly)
Matt Taylor - Germany
Eric Palmer-Brown - Portugal (Premier League International Cup)

FRIDAY
Robbie Kristo Scored an late goal in a 1 - 5 crushing defeat of Osnabruck by Bremen in a friendly in Germany

Eric Lickert went 74 as #1 Freiburg II fell 2 - 0 at #3 Balingen in Oberliga (Baden-Württemberg)

Joel Sonora went 85 as Stuttgart II fell 0 - 1 at home to Hoffenheim II in Regionalliga (Sudwest)

SATURDAY

Oh dear, GK Daniel Schmidt and Yamaga fell 2 - 1 at Machida in J-League 2 in Japan, the loss drops them 1 spot, and out of the automatic promotion place, into 3rd on GD. Next Sunday all the teams play in the finale day.

Nicholas Edginton went 90 as,coach Mike Keeney's, Samorin visited MSK Martin in Slovakia's 2Liga and in a game that flip-flopped between the teams Samorin came out 3 - 4 winners, and 2nd place in the league.

Not a good day for GK Brendan Moore, Torquay traveled to Guisley and lost 2 - 0 in England's National League. With only 1 point in the last 5 games, Torquay a slipping dangerously close to the red zone.

GK Paul Rachubka sat this one out, on the bench, as Bury hosted Southend and got blasted for 4 goals in a 1 - 4 loss, in England's League 1. Bury has now lost their last 5 games.

Duane Holmes went 76 minutes as Scunthorpe visited Coventry in England League 1 and came away with a 0 - 1 win. That's 3 wins in a row for league leaders Scunthorpe, who are as of today, 5 points clear at the top.

Hunter Gorskie went 90, picked up a yellow in ET as Legnica visited Sandecja and fell 1 - 0 in Poland's Division 1. With the win Legnica drops below Sandecja in the standings.

#5 Falkirk was a man down after a 25th minute red card, but managed to take the lead at #1 Hibernian, although it was short lived, in a game that ended in a 1 - 1 draw with GK Danny Rogers going the full 90 in Scotland's Championship

Kevin Dzierzawski entered the game in the 81st minute as Peterhead traveled to Queen's Park in Scotland's League One and battled to a goalless draw

Jon-Paul Pittman got 8 minutes today as he returned from injury, on a high scoring game as Harrogate fall 3 - 4 to Tamworth on a 90th minute goal. Harrogate has been in a tumble for the past 5 weeks (while Pittman was out) getting only 1 point in that period and sliding out of any chance of a promotion spot

Kris Scott played nearly the whole game as Nuneaton settled for a 1 - 1 draw with Stockport in England's National League (North)

Charlie Rugg went 68 as Pirmasens fell 3 - 1 at Hessen Kassel in Regionalliga (Sudwest)

In Regionalliga (Sudwest) Offenbach with Bryan Gaul (90) and Matt Taylor (22) beat Worms 2 - 0. Matt Taylor who came on at 68 minutes wasted no time Scoring at minute 72 to ensure the victory.

Justin Kinjo went 90 as Dusseldorf II falls at home to Wiedenbruck 1 - 2 in Regionalliga (West)

Eric Palmer-Brown started for FC Porto B as they traveled to Leicester City U23 in the Premier League International Cup...good day for Porto B and Eric who Scored their 2nd goal in a 0 - 2 victory

In Regionalliga (Nordost) RB Leipzig II and BFC Dynamo drew 1 - 1. Terence Boyd left the game in the 43rd minute (no word on why - Injury/tactical - but more likely injury at that specific time of the game) also picked up a yellow. RB Leipzig II still unbeaten at home.

In New Zealand forward Matt Wiesenfarth started for Canterbury United as they hosted Wellington Phoenix 2 in the Premier League and won 4 - 1 . It's Canterbury's 2nd win in the new season, and they are the only unbeaten team in the league.

SUNDAY

Fabian Hurzeler went 90, picked up a yellow, as Pipinsried were held to a 1 - 1 draw by 1874 Kottern in Germany's Oberliga (Bayern Sud)

Aris Briggs Zustra was subbed out at 90, as Osnabruck II visited Oldenburg and came away with a 0 - 1 win in Oberliga (Niedersachsen)

After a 2 - 0 loss to Division 1 Norrby in the first leg, Assyriska FF and Paul Torres needed a big win in the 2nd leg to remain in Sweden's Superettan. They were not up to the task and drew 2 - 2, which aggregated to 2 - 4 and Assyriska FF are RELEGATED. Paul went 33 minutes (?Injury) today and a 2nd half red card, was just to much to overcome.

Gboly Ariyibi went 90 for Chesterfield as they continued their downward spiral with their 7th straight loss 1 - 4 at home to Sheffield United in England's League One. Chesterfield, now firmly in last place, will have a monumental task to stay in the league.

Varzim lost to Colvilha in Taca de Portugal 0 - 1. Keaton Parks started for Varzim today and went 80. So Varzim are eliminated from the Portuguese Cup - back to league play - next up is a trip to FC Porto B and Eric Palmer-Brown.

GK Benjamin Machini in 18 for Barakaldo in Spain's Segunda B (Group 2) as they take on Real Union. Barakaldo scored first, but it was disallowed, and they finally fell 0 - 1

Shaq Moore started for Levante UD B in Segunda B (Group 3) as they visited CF Hercules and fell 1 - 0 in a tightly contested match
 

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