The Norway thread

Toppserien's 14th matchday brought us only 13 goals, but many of them were superb. The champions struck back, a rollercoaster match in Bergen had a referee which stirred up tensions, and there is a new girl on top of the scoring charts.

LSK Kvinner vs Avaldsnes 1-0
1-0 Silje Blakstad (Guro Reiten) 81
In a tight game where both teams had good spells, LSK managed to bounce back after their shocking loss against Trondheims-Ørn last week and win against Avaldsnes. Substitute Blakstad took full advantage of Guro Reiten's intelligent pass and scored the late winner. Avaldsnes have still never beaten LSK home or away, and it now also seems to be a psychological problem. Most experts believe Avaldsnes' squad is better player by player than LSK's this season. LSK had two efforts against the crossbar, Avaldsnes one. A jetlagged Emilie Haavi, back from America, came on in the second half, but was not involved in much.

Røa vs Kolbotn 2-0
1-0 Lisa Marie Utland (Nora Byom Nilssen) 33
2-0 Lisa Marie Utland (Gunhild Herregården) 67
Three easy points for Røa. Kolbotn's injury problems just keep piling up. The latest name on the long list is their stalwart defender and captain Ina Gausdal who left the field in the first half. Even the last-solution-substitute Solveig Gulbrandsen limped off the field - shortly after coming on. Røa were the best team, produced lots of chances and the scoreline could easily have been even more one-sided. The goals were scored by Lisa Marie Utland (who else?), the best box player in the league, and the new leader of the top scorer charts in Toppserien.

Arna Bjørnar vs Vålerenga 2-3
1-0 Josee Nahi (Emma Fletcher) 1
2-0 Josee Nahi (Elise Stenevik) 4
2-1 Anne Lise Olsen (Camilla Kur Larsen) 34
2-2 Gunnhildur Jonsdottir 63 (free-kick)
2-3 Elise Krieghoff (Jennie Nordin) 91
Who says mid-table games are boring? This game had everything. Cracking goals, drama and a controversial referee. For the second time this season, Arna Bjørnar scored a goal straight after kick-off before the opponents had even touched the ball. Seven passes and then a header from Nahi after 19 seconds. The Ivorian striker doubled the lead shortly after. Vålerenga fought back and dominated the rest of the first half. It's not often that A-B get dominated possession-wise at home. A bizarre incident occured early in the second half. A-B winger Emilie Nautnes received her second yellow card because she walked too slowly off the field to get substituted, so the substitution then couldn't be made! To add further to the misery, Josee Nahi had to go off injured shortly after. With numerical advantage, Vålerenga turned the game and won in stoppage time thanks to an overhead kick by Elise Krieghoff.

Klepp vs Sandviken 0-0
A rather uneventful encounter with few chances. Klepp legend Gry Tofte Ims made her first appearance from start in midfield since giving birth, and had a couple of decent scoring opportunities. The home team certainly missed Tameka Butt who sat out this game because of suspension after being sent off in the last match. A possible set-back for Klepp is Oda Bogstad, the Euro squad goalkeeper, who has decided to study in Oslo this upcoming academic year, and will therefore miss the rest of the season and the beginning of the next. She signed off by keeping a clean sheet against Sandviken.

Medkila vs Trondheims-Ørn 0-2
0-1 Julie Adserø 7
0-2 Elen Melhus (Oda Fugelsnes) 43
Medkila look better than before the summer break, the new players bring experience and a bit more athleticism, but they couldn't quite capitalize on that against an in-form team like Ørn. A little better at keeping the ball, but still too easy to outmuscle in midfield. A nice piece of dribbling skill by Oda Fugelsnes set-up the second goal for Elen Melhus. These three points made Ørn leave the relegation battle for good. The table is now divided in two by a twelve point gap; a top 8 and a bottom 4.

Grand Bodø vs Stabæk 1-2
0-1 Andrea Wilmann (Melissa Bjånesøy) 7
0-2 Victoria Ludvigsen 39
1-2 Vilde Fjelldal (Sara Eggesvik) 63
Stabæk continue to win despite losing NT players. Tonight they also had veteran Trine Rønning carried off the field injured, but could welcome back Cathrine Dekkerhus on the pitch for the first time this season. Stabæk's opening goal by Andrea Wilmann came after superb teamwork, mobility and passing football, one of the best goals in that aspect this season. Stabæk's new signing from Røa, the American Shade Pratt, also made an appearance as substitute in this game. (Video not yet available).



TOP SCORERS
12 - Lisa Marie Utland, Røa
11 - Guro Reiten, LSK Kvinner
9 - Tameka Butt, Klepp
8 - Melissa Bjånesøy, Stabæk
7 - Elise Thorsnes, Avaldsnes
6 - Emily Gielnik, Avaldsnes
6 - Cecilie Pedersen, Avaldsnes
6 - Anne-Marthe Birkeland, Grand Bodø
6 - Sophie Haug, LSK Kvinner
6 - Victoria Ludvigsen, Stabæk
5 - Ina Skaug, Røa
5 - Rakel Engesvik, Trondheims-Ørn
4 - Josee Nahi, Arna Bjørnar
4 - Hege Hansen, Klepp
4 - Hanne Kogstad, Klepp
4 - Ingrid Kvernvolden, LSK Kvinner
4 - Vilde Hasund, Røa
4 - Oda Fugelsnes, Trondheims-Ørn
4 - Gunnhildur Jonsdottir, Vålerenga
4 - Elise Krieghoff, Vålerenga
4 - Jennie Nordin, Vålerenga
3 - Trine Skjelstad Jensen, Grand Bodø
3 - Kirsty Yallop, Klepp
3 - Synne Skinnes Hansen, LSK Kvinner
3 - Sofie Skjelstad Jensen, Sandviken
3 - Andrea Wilmann, Stabæk
3 - Julie Adserø, Trondheims-Ørn
3 - Cesilie Andreassen, Trondheims-Ørn
3 - Andrea Haugstøyl, Trondheims-Ørn
3 - Elen Melhus, Trondheims-Ørn
3 - Maren Hauge, Vålerenga
3 - Aivi Luik, Vålerenga

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2 - Maria Brochmann, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Amalie Eikeland, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Emma Fletcher, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Helene Gloppen, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Lisa Naalsund, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Emilie Nautnes, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Ine Marie Wedaa, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Francielle Alberto, Avaldsnes
2 - Luana Bertolucci, Avaldsnes
2 - Hanna Dahl, Avaldsnes
2 - Andrine Tomter, Avaldsnes
2 - Vilde Fjelldal, Grand Bodø
2 - Synnøve Hafnor, Grand Bodø
2 - Juliette Kemppi, Kolbotn
2 - Karina Sævik, Kolbotn
2 - Isabell Bachor, LSK Kvinner
2 - Marte Berget, LSK Kvinner
2 - Silje Blakstad, LSK Kvinner
2 - Ryoko Takara, LSK Kvinner
2 - Anja Rasmussen, Medkila
2 - Gunhild Herregården, Røa
2 - Line Holter, Røa
2 - Therese S. Åsland, Røa
2 - Marina Jensen, Sandviken
2 - Frida Maanum, Stabæk
2 - Tina Fremo, Trondheims-Ørn
2 - Theresa Nielsen, Vålerenga
2 - Anne Lise Olsen, Vålerenga
1 - Ingrid Altermark, Arna Bjørnar
1 - Cecilie R. Kvamme, Arna Bjørnar
1 - Ingrid Stenevik, Arna Bjørnar
1 - Meryll Abrahamsen, Avaldsnes
1 - Daiane Santos, Avaldsnes
1 - Synne Vatnem, Avaldsnes
1 - Maiken Bakke, Grand Bodø
1 - Line Danielsen, Grand Bodø
1 - Ingeborg Nordheim, Grand Bodø
1 - Linda Ruutu, Grand Bodø
1 - Gry Tofte Ims, Klepp
1 - Elisabeth Terland, Klepp
1 - Maria Thorisdottir, Klepp
1 - Antonia Göransson, Kolbotn
1 - Maren Johansen, Kolbotn
1 - Marit Bratberg Lund, Kolbotn
1 - Camilla Ose, Kolbotn
1 - Anja Sønstevold, LSK Kvinner
1 - Ingrid Moe Wold, LSK Kvinner
1 - Krystina Iordanou, Medkila
1 - Jenna McCormick, Medkila
1 - Martine Olsen, Medkila
1 - Alex Quincey, Medkila
1 - Kristine Leine, Røa
1 - Nora Byom Nilssen, Røa
1 - Marije Brummel, Sandviken
1 - June Hammersland, Sandviken
1 - Stine Hovland, Sandviken
1 - Sofie Bloch Jørgensen, Sandviken
1 - Elida Knudsen, Sandviken
1 - Vilde Øyri, Sandviken
1 - Heidi Ellingsen, Stabæk
1 - Martine Flakk, Stabæk
1 - Celine Granli, Stabæk
1 - Siri Nordeide Grønli, Stabæk
1 - Synne Jensen, Stabæk
1 - Mina Kjørum, Stabæk
1 - Cecilie Liane, Stabæk
1 - Stine Reinås, Stabæk
1 - Marit Clausen, Trondheims-Ørn
1 - Ochelle de Courcy, Trondheims-Ørn
1 - Synne Christiansen, Vålerenga
1 - Frida Lyshoel, Vålerenga

ASSISTS
7 - Elise Thorsnes, Avaldsnes
6 - Elise Stenevik, Arna Bjørnar
6 - Guro Reiten, LSK Kvinner
6 - Therese S. Åsland, Røa
6 - Cecilie Liane, Stabæk
5 - Theresa Nielsen, Vålerenga
4 - Francielle Alberto, Avaldsnes
4 - Cecilie Pedersen, Avaldsnes
4 - Hege Hansen, Klepp
4 - Sophie Haug, LSK Kvinner
4 - Aivi Luik, Vålerenga
3 - Cecilie Redisch Kvamme, Arna Bjørnar
3 - Ingrid Ryland, Avaldsnes
3 - Line Danielsen, Grand Bodø
3 - Sigrid Helbostad, Grand Bodø
3 - Kirsty Yallop, Klepp
3 - Synne Skinnes Hansen, LSK Kvinner
3 - Ingrid Spord, LSK Kvinner
3 - Ryoko Takara, LSK Kvinner
3 - Ingrid Moe Wold, LSK Kvinner
3 - Vilde Hasund, Røa
3 - Gunhild Herregården, Røa
3 - Marita Iversen, Røa
3 - Sina Tosterud, Sandviken
3 - Elen Melhus, Trondheims-Ørn
3 - Synne Christiansen, Vålerenga
3 - Johanne Fridlund, Vålerenga

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2 - Amalie Eikeland, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Emma Fletcher, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Lisa Naalsund, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Luana Bertolucci, Avaldsnes
2 - Andreia Rosa, Avaldsnes
2 - Andrine Tomter, Avaldsnes
2 - Amalie Johnsen, Grand Bodø
2 - Marit Bratberg Lund, Kolbotn
2 - Karina Sævik, Kolbotn
2 - Anja Sønstevold, LSK Kvinner
2 - Ida Fossem, Medkila
2 - Lisa Marie Utland, Røa
2 - Marije Brummel, Sandviken
2 - Mina Kjørum, Stabæk
2 - Ingvild Isaksen, Stabæk
2 - Synne Jensen, Stabæk
2 - Rakel Engesvik, Trondheims-Ørn
2 - Oda Fugelsnes, Trondheims-Ørn
2 - Andrea Haugstøyl, Trondheims-Ørn
2 - Maria Olsvik, Trondheims-Ørn
1 - Maria Brochmann, Arna Bjørnar
1 - Josee Nahi, Arna Bjørnar
1 - Emily Gielnik, Avaldsnes
1 - Gema Simon, Avaldsnes
1 - Sara Eggesvik, Grand Bodø
1 - Vilde Fjelldal, Grand Bodø
1 - Savannah Francis, Grand Bodø
1 - Trine Skjelstad Jensen, Grand Bodø
1 - Ingeborg Nordheim, Grand Bodø
1 - Marie Andresen, Klepp
1 - Tuva Hansen, Klepp
1 - Hanne Kogstad, Klepp
1 - Maria Thorisdottir, Klepp
1 - Siw Døvle, Kolbotn
1 - Maren Johansen, Kolbotn
1 - Isabell Bachor, LSK Kvinner
1 - Anna Westerlund, LSK Kvinner
1 - Emilie Woldvik, LSK Kvinner
1 - Maria Hustad, Medkila
1 - Alex Quincey, Medkila
1 - Line Holter, Røa
1 - Nora Byom Nilssen, Røa
1 - Ina Skaug, Røa
1 - Camilla Ervik, Sandviken
1 - Marina Jensen, Sandviken
1 - Melissa Bjånesøy, Stabæk
1 - Victoria Ludvigsen, Stabæk
1 - Trine Rønning, Stabæk
1 - Tanja Myrseth, Trondheims-Ørn
1 - Kristine Nøstmo, Trondheims-Ørn
1 - Svanhild Sand, Trondheims-Ørn
1 - Maren Hauge, Vålerenga
1 - Gunnhildur Jonsdottir, Vålerenga
1 - Camilla Kur Larsen, Vålerenga
1 - Jennie Nordin, Vålerenga
1 - Stephanie Verdoia, Vålerenga

NEXT MATCHDAY
23 Aug: Sandviken vs Arna Bjørnar (6:00pm) [the postponed Bergen derby from May 17.]
----
26 Aug: Kolbotn vs Sandviken (3:00pm)
26 Aug: Grand Bodø vs LSK Kvinner (3:00pm)
26 Aug: Stabæk vs Klepp (3:00pm)
27 Aug: Vålerenga vs Medkila (1:00pm)
27 Aug: Trondheims-Ørn vs Arna Bjørnar (3:00pm)

(Avaldsnes vs Røa 0-0 played already in April due to preparations for Champions League qualifiers.)

 

No, she was an unused substitute. I don't know why. Probably some much needed rotation. LSK are now entering a period with a packed fixture list and matches in three competitions over the next weeks.

- o - o - o - o -

BTW, highlights from Grand Bodø vs Stabæk 1-2 are now available.

 

The Champions League qualifiers have now started.

Breznica vs Avaldsnes 1-2
1-0 Tatajana Djurkovic 22
1-1 Emily Gielnik 33
1-2 Elise Thorsnes 75

A very one-sided game, but Avaldsnes had trouble breaking down the hosts' defence in the 33°C heat. Breznica scored on their only effort on goal. Gielnik also missed a penalty for Avaldsnes.

Spartak Subotica beat Qiryat Gat 7-1 in the other game in this group based in Montenegro. Remaining fixtures in Group 9:

25 Aug: Avaldsnes vs Qiryat Gat
25 Aug: Spartak Subotica vs Breznica
28 Aug: Breznica vs Qiryat Gat
28 Aug: Avaldsnes vs Spartak Subotica

 

The postponed "Battle of Bergen" local derby game tonight:

Sandviken vs Arna Bjørnar (6:00pm)

 

Sandviken vs Arna Bjørnar 2-0
1-0 Sofie Skjelstad Jensen (Marije Brummel) 28
2-0 Sunniva Lillestøl 62
A surprise winner in the Bergen derby game tonight. Sandviken managed a much needed win, and put themselves five points clear of that play-off spot at the bottom after a well-organized defensive performance and efficiency on top of that. Lillestøl's second goal was a beauty. Arna Bjørnar, who were undefeated for nine months in all competitions recently, have now lost three of the last four matches in Toppserien. They need to regain their confidence again.

 

Champions League qualifiers in Montenegro, Match 2 just finished:

Qiryat Gat vs Avaldsnes 2-6
0-1 Luana Bertolucci 8
0-2 Elise Thorsnes 17
0-3 Andreia Rosa 19
0-4 Cecilie Pedersen 41
0-5 Emily Gielnik 55
1-5 Mor Efraim 57 (pen)
2-5 Danielle Schulmann 64
2-6 Cecilie Pedersen 72

Toppserien's 15th matchday coming up this weekend.

Stream links:
26 Aug: Kolbotn vs Sandviken (3:00pm)
26 Aug: Grand Bodø vs LSK Kvinner (3:00pm)
26 Aug: Stabæk vs Klepp (3:00pm)
27 Aug: Vålerenga vs Medkila (1:00pm)
27 Aug: Trondheims-Ørn vs Arna Bjørnar (3:00pm)

 

Toppserien's 15th matchday completed this weekend.

Grand Bodø vs LSK Kvinner 0-6
0-1 Guro Reiten 29 (pen)
0-2 Marte Berget (Ingrid Moe Wold) 50
0-3 Marte Berget 52
0-4 Guro Reiten (Silje Blakstad) 54
0-5 Marte Berget (Ingrid Moe Wold) 68
0-6 Ingrid Kvernvolden (Ingrid Moe Wold) 88
Too easy for LSK who rested a few starters in this game. Emilie Haavi made her first appearance from start after returning from America, and won the penalty Guro Reiten converted. Marte Berget scored a rare hat-trick. Many of the goals in this game were typical LSK-goals from last year built up on the flanks with crosses from an overlapping full-back. Grand Bodø still haven't won a home game this season. Guro Reiten back on top of the scoring charts.

Stabæk vs Klepp 0-1
0-1 Gry Tofte Ims (Hanne Kogstad) 61
What a day for Klepp, their first ever away win at Stabæk. And it wasn't undeserved. How fitting that it was the team's "mother" who scored the winning goal. Lots of rumours are hanging in the air about Maria Thorisdottir's future, she might be England bound. She had a great game against Stabæk. On the other hand, the Oceanic imports Tameka Butt and Kirsty Yallop just extended their contracts with Klepp out 2018.

Kolbotn vs Sandviken 1-1
1-0 Ina Gausdal (Tonje Pedersen) 75
1-1 Sofie Skjelstad Jensen (Marije Brummel) 88
A hard fought draw at the bottom with two struggling teams. Both goals came after headers from corners. Sandviken are now undefeated in four games, and have also started to score late goals and win points towards the end, it was quite the opposite before the summer break. One blemish however was getting the playmaker Marije Brummel booked for the third time this season, she will now be suspended in the next match against Vålerenga.

Vålerenga vs Medkila 3-1
1-0 Anne Lise Olsen (Elise Krieghoff) 33
1-1 Jackie Altschuld (Lotte Fossem) 51
2-1 Maren Hauge (Anne Lise Olsen) 53
3-1 Elise Krieghoff (Maren Hauge) 59
Vålerenga said good bye to their Vallhall indoor arena with a predictable win against Medkila, their third win in succession after the summer break. Vålerenga will play their next home game vs Kolbotn at the brand new 18 000 capacity stadium which they share with the men's team. Medkila did control much of the first half, and scored the best goal of the game, Jackie Altschuld's first for the club.

Trondheims-Ørn vs Arna Bjørnar 1-1
1-0 Elen Melhus (Ingrid Engen) 14
1-1 Josee Nahi (Emilie Nautnes) 90
This was a match Arna Bjørnar ran for most of the game, but couldn't convert their chances, a recurring problem for them. Trondheims-Ørn parked the bus after taking the lead and nearly succeeded in stealing the points, but substitute Nahi scored a late equalizer.



TOP SCORERS
13 - Guro Reiten, LSK Kvinner
12 - Lisa Marie Utland, Røa
9 - Tameka Butt, Klepp
8 - Melissa Bjånesøy, Stabæk
7 - Elise Thorsnes, Avaldsnes
6 - Emily Gielnik, Avaldsnes
6 - Cecilie Pedersen, Avaldsnes
6 - Anne-Marthe Birkeland, Grand Bodø
6 - Sophie Haug, LSK Kvinner
6 - Victoria Ludvigsen, Stabæk
5 - Josee Nahi, Arna Bjørnar
5 - Marte Berget, LSK Kvinner
5 - Ingrid Kvernvolden, LSK Kvinner
5 - Ina Skaug, Røa
5 - Sofie Skjelstad Jensen, Sandviken
5 - Rakel Engesvik, Trondheims-Ørn
5 - Elise Krieghoff, Vålerenga
4 - Hege Hansen, Klepp
4 - Hanne Kogstad, Klepp
4 - Vilde Hasund, Røa
4 - Oda Fugelsnes, Trondheims-Ørn
4 - Elen Melhus, Trondheims-Ørn
4 - Maren Hauge, Vålerenga
4 - Gunnhildur Jonsdottir, Vålerenga
4 - Jennie Nordin, Vålerenga
3 - Trine Skjelstad Jensen, Grand Bodø
3 - Kirsty Yallop, Klepp
3 - Synne Skinnes Hansen, LSK Kvinner
3 - Andrea Wilmann, Stabæk
3 - Julie Adserø, Trondheims-Ørn
3 - Cesilie Andreassen, Trondheims-Ørn
3 - Andrea Haugstøyl, Trondheims-Ørn
3 - Aivi Luik, Vålerenga
3 - Anne Lise Olsen, Vålerenga

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2 - Maria Brochmann, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Amalie Eikeland, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Emma Fletcher, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Helene Gloppen, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Lisa Naalsund, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Emilie Nautnes, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Ine Marie Wedaa, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Francielle Alberto, Avaldsnes
2 - Luana Bertolucci, Avaldsnes
2 - Hanna Dahl, Avaldsnes
2 - Andrine Tomter, Avaldsnes
2 - Vilde Fjelldal, Grand Bodø
2 - Synnøve Hafnor, Grand Bodø
2 - Gry Tofte Ims, Klepp
2 - Juliette Kemppi, Kolbotn
2 - Karina Sævik, Kolbotn
2 - Isabell Bachor, LSK Kvinner
2 - Silje Blakstad, LSK Kvinner
2 - Ryoko Takara, LSK Kvinner
2 - Anja Rasmussen, Medkila
2 - Gunhild Herregården, Røa
2 - Line Holter, Røa
2 - Therese S. Åsland, Røa
2 - Marina Jensen, Sandviken
2 - Frida Maanum, Stabæk
2 - Tina Fremo, Trondheims-Ørn
2 - Theresa Nielsen, Vålerenga
1 - Ingrid Altermark, Arna Bjørnar
1 - Cecilie R. Kvamme, Arna Bjørnar
1 - Ingrid Stenevik, Arna Bjørnar
1 - Meryll Abrahamsen, Avaldsnes
1 - Daiane Santos, Avaldsnes
1 - Synne Vatnem, Avaldsnes
1 - Maiken Bakke, Grand Bodø
1 - Line Danielsen, Grand Bodø
1 - Ingeborg Nordheim, Grand Bodø
1 - Linda Ruutu, Grand Bodø
1 - Elisabeth Terland, Klepp
1 - Maria Thorisdottir, Klepp
1 - Ina Gausdal, Kolbotn
1 - Antonia Göransson, Kolbotn
1 - Maren Johansen, Kolbotn
1 - Marit Bratberg Lund, Kolbotn
1 - Camilla Ose, Kolbotn
1 - Anja Sønstevold, LSK Kvinner
1 - Ingrid Moe Wold, LSK Kvinner
1 - Jackie Altschuld, Medkila
1 - Krystina Iordanou, Medkila
1 - Jenna McCormick, Medkila
1 - Martine Olsen, Medkila
1 - Alex Quincey, Medkila
1 - Kristine Leine, Røa
1 - Nora Byom Nilssen, Røa
1 - Marije Brummel, Sandviken
1 - June Hammersland, Sandviken
1 - Stine Hovland, Sandviken
1 - Sofie Bloch Jørgensen, Sandviken
1 - Elida Knudsen, Sandviken
1 - Sunniva Lillestøl, Sandviken
1 - Vilde Øyri, Sandviken
1 - Heidi Ellingsen, Stabæk
1 - Martine Flakk, Stabæk
1 - Celine Granli, Stabæk
1 - Siri Nordeide Grønli, Stabæk
1 - Synne Jensen, Stabæk
1 - Mina Kjørum, Stabæk
1 - Cecilie Liane, Stabæk
1 - Stine Reinås, Stabæk
1 - Marit Clausen, Trondheims-Ørn
1 - Ochelle de Courcy, Trondheims-Ørn
1 - Synne Christiansen, Vålerenga
1 - Frida Lyshoel, Vålerenga

ASSISTS
7 - Elise Thorsnes, Avaldsnes
6 - Elise Stenevik, Arna Bjørnar
6 - Guro Reiten, LSK Kvinner
6 - Ingrid Moe Wold, LSK Kvinner
6 - Therese S. Åsland, Røa
6 - Cecilie Liane, Stabæk
5 - Theresa Nielsen, Vålerenga
4 - Francielle Alberto, Avaldsnes
4 - Cecilie Pedersen, Avaldsnes
4 - Hege Hansen, Klepp
4 - Sophie Haug, LSK Kvinner
4 - Marije Brummel, Sandviken
4 - Aivi Luik, Vålerenga
3 - Cecilie Redisch Kvamme, Arna Bjørnar
3 - Ingrid Ryland, Avaldsnes
3 - Line Danielsen, Grand Bodø
3 - Sigrid Helbostad, Grand Bodø
3 - Kirsty Yallop, Klepp
3 - Synne Skinnes Hansen, LSK Kvinner
3 - Ingrid Spord, LSK Kvinner
3 - Ryoko Takara, LSK Kvinner
3 - Vilde Hasund, Røa
3 - Gunhild Herregården, Røa
3 - Marita Iversen, Røa
3 - Sina Tosterud, Sandviken
3 - Elen Melhus, Trondheims-Ørn
3 - Synne Christiansen, Vålerenga
3 - Johanne Fridlund, Vålerenga

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2 - Amalie Eikeland, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Emma Fletcher, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Lisa Naalsund, Arna Bjørnar
2 - Luana Bertolucci, Avaldsnes
2 - Andreia Rosa, Avaldsnes
2 - Andrine Tomter, Avaldsnes
2 - Amalie Johnsen, Grand Bodø
2 - Hanne Kogstad, Klepp
2 - Marit Bratberg Lund, Kolbotn
2 - Karina Sævik, Kolbotn
2 - Anja Sønstevold, LSK Kvinner
2 - Ida Fossem, Medkila
2 - Lisa Marie Utland, Røa
2 - Mina Kjørum, Stabæk
2 - Ingvild Isaksen, Stabæk
2 - Synne Jensen, Stabæk
2 - Rakel Engesvik, Trondheims-Ørn
2 - Oda Fugelsnes, Trondheims-Ørn
2 - Andrea Haugstøyl, Trondheims-Ørn
2 - Maria Olsvik, Trondheims-Ørn
2 - Maren Hauge, Vålerenga
1 - Maria Brochmann, Arna Bjørnar
1 - Josee Nahi, Arna Bjørnar
1 - Emilie Nautnes, Arna Bjørnar
1 - Emily Gielnik, Avaldsnes
1 - Gema Simon, Avaldsnes
1 - Sara Eggesvik, Grand Bodø
1 - Vilde Fjelldal, Grand Bodø
1 - Savannah Francis, Grand Bodø
1 - Trine Skjelstad Jensen, Grand Bodø
1 - Ingeborg Nordheim, Grand Bodø
1 - Marie Andresen, Klepp
1 - Tuva Hansen, Klepp
1 - Maria Thorisdottir, Klepp
1 - Siw Døvle, Kolbotn
1 - Maren Johansen, Kolbotn
1 - Tonje Pedersen, Kolbotn
1 - Isabell Bachor, LSK Kvinner
1 - Silje Blakstad, LSK Kvinner
1 - Anna Westerlund, LSK Kvinner
1 - Emilie Woldvik, LSK Kvinner
1 - Lotte Fossem, Medkila
1 - Maria Hustad, Medkila
1 - Alex Quincey, Medkila
1 - Line Holter, Røa
1 - Nora Byom Nilssen, Røa
1 - Ina Skaug, Røa
1 - Camilla Ervik, Sandviken
1 - Marina Jensen, Sandviken
1 - Melissa Bjånesøy, Stabæk
1 - Victoria Ludvigsen, Stabæk
1 - Trine Rønning, Stabæk
1 - Ingrid Engen, Trondheims-Ørn
1 - Tanja Myrseth, Trondheims-Ørn
1 - Kristine Nøstmo, Trondheims-Ørn
1 - Svanhild Sand, Trondheims-Ørn
1 - Gunnhildur Jonsdottir, Vålerenga
1 - Elise Krieghoff, Vålerenga
1 - Camilla Kur Larsen, Vålerenga
1 - Jennie Nordin, Vålerenga
1 - Anne Lise Olsen, Vålerenga
1 - Stephanie Verdoia, Vålerenga

NEXT MATCHDAY
02 Sep: Medkila vs LSK Kvinner (3:00pm)
02 Sep: Kolbotn vs Stabæk (3:00pm)
02 Sep: Røa vs Trondheims-Ørn (3:00pm)
03 Sep: Sandviken vs Vålerenga (3:00pm)
03 Sep: Arna Bjørnar vs Grand Bodø (3:00pm)

Klepp vs Avaldsnes is postponed to 27 September due to ongoing Champions League commitments. Avaldsnes are playing Spartak Subotica in the decisive qualifying match tomorrow (Monday), and I'm not optimistic. There is a possible pitfall here. Avaldsnes must raise their game from what we've seen in Montenegro so far in order to go through.

 

Avaldsnes vs Spartak Subotica 2-0
1-0 Daiane 19
2-0 Chloe Logarzo 67

Three wins in three games then. Avaldsnes through to the Champions League with a controlled win against Subotica, a club which held Wolfsburg to a goalless draw at home two years ago in an early round. Avaldsnes did raise their game as I hoped for. The torrential rain in Montenegro didn't hurt Avaldsnes' chances either. Just like home.

 

Yep, absolutely shocking!

We don't get the details, but apparently in prima donna style she has submitted a list of things to improve to NFF before she rejoins the squad. It's not a permanent "No", but temporary, but still..

She wants to focus all on Lyon now. With Herlovsen still in China, new strikers will need to step up in the upcoming qualifiers.

 

Ada's press brief from today:

"The decision to take a break from the NT has been difficult, but deliberate. The decision I've made is not only a consequence of this summer's European championships, but based on experiences over years with national teams (including youth apparently). I want to focus entirely on Lyon from now on, because that's where I can develop further as a player.

I've contacted my nearest superior, Martin Sjögren and the leaders at NFF about my decision and the reason for it. I want to underline that the reason for my decision to a large degree is outside of Martin Sjögren's area of responsibility.

For the national team to reach announced goals and results, it requires improvements in a number of areas, in my opinion; In planning, execution and follow-up. In addition to this, communication needs to be better. I feel I've contributed constructively in the areas where I can have a voice. The coaches and staff know my opinions, and I won't elaborate further on this in the media.

I've been proud wearing the NT jersey, but at the moment I don't have enough motivation to continue. I wish my NT colleagues all well, and good luck in the upcoming qualifiers."

 

Martin Sjögren has selected his squad for the two World Cup qualifying matches at home against Northern Ireland (Sep 15) and Slovakia (Sep 19).

Goalkeepers
Ingrid Hjelmseth (Stabæk)
Cecilie Fiskerstrand (LSK Kvinner)

Defenders
Maren Mjelde (Chelsea)
Ingrid Moe Wold (LSK Kvinner)
Elise Thorsnes (Avaldsnes)
Maria Thorisdottir (Klepp)
Kristine Leine (Røa)
Stine Reinås (Stabæk)

Midfielders
Ingrid Spord (LSK Kvinner)
Ingrid Schjelderup (Eskilstuna United)
Anja Sønstevold (LSK Kvinner)
Guro Reiten (LSK Kvinner)
Frida Maanum (Linköping)

Forwards
Synne Skinnes Hansen (LSK Kvinner) NEW
Kristine Minde (Linköping)
Lisa-Marie Utland (Røa)
Emilie Haavi (LSK Kvinner)
Caroline G. Hansen (Wolfsburg)

Axed from the Euro squad: Oda Marie Bogstad, Tuva Hansen, Nora Holstad Berge, Ingvild Isaksen, Andrine Hegerberg + Ada Hegerberg (retiring).

Isabell Herlovsen is expected to be available for the Netherlands game in October.

On NRK news tonight it was revealed there was uproar and turmoil behind the scenes in the Norwegian camp throughout the whole of the Euros with the Hegerberg sisters at the centre of it.

 

Yes, I believe that group was the strongest on paper in the tournament. The fact that also Belgium stepped up made it extra tricky. Basically two "home" teams in the group.

No, I don't think so. Apart from a brief spell against France in the last warm-up match, Norway have looked crap ever since Algarve Cup. At this stage, Sjögren's project has yet to harvest success. We got what we deserved: zero points. Sure, one of Belgium's goals was offside, but the overall performances were not good enough.

May be. I think Norway were the better team against Denmark actually, but didn't take our chances. Missed a penalty also, because Harder told her goalkeeper where Caro likes to shoot from the spot. It might sound crazy, but I think we improved with every game this summer. We went from absolute rubbish against the Dutch, to poor against Belgium to decent against Denmark.

 

I don't think it was caught on camera. I read it in the media after the game, but I can't remember which source.

 

A few voices in the Norwegian game gathered from various media about Ada Hegerberg's decision to leave the national team:

"It came as a shock to me. I don't agree at all what Ada said about the NT. I think we have very good chemistry within our group, having fun on trips. Of course we experience games when things don't go our way, but I've never felt the kind of frustration Ada expresses in her press release. I always want to play for Norway as long as I'm healthy and good enough for the team. I want to continue working towards the goals we set together. The national team is the greatest honour a player can experience.
- Caroline G. Hansen

"I don't understand Ada at all."
- Maren Mjelde

"I can't believe it. For me it was never an option. I would never quit the NT. I wanted to play with the flag on the chest. I wanted to set an example and be a leader. But my mentality was perhaps different. With this tournament fresh in mind, I understand if she wants a break. She's had a tough job up front. Chased the ball, but never got it. I understand the frustration. True, when she never gets a precise cross or a good ball to chase, how can she show that she is one of Europe's best? But sometimes you have to put yourself aside and work for the team through bad times."
- Linda Medalen, 152 caps (1987-1999)

"It's not good at all when a 22 year old is not motivated to play for Norway. The football federation and everyone involved must be evaluated after this. It's a sad day for Norwegian football. Ada has been a star, a profile with even more media coverage than players on the men's NT. She was supposed to be the poster girl selling the women's game to a wider public. We hoped the leaders of this group would be thirsty for revenge after this summer's fiasco, and with that in mind it's sad to see Ada leave. But if she isn't motivated, she has no business being on the team."
- Hege Riise, 188 caps (1990-2004)

"Ada has been dissatisfied also under the previous coach Roger Finjord, but to leave the NT at 22 is surprising. She must understand that Norway's strength has always been the collective strength, the team unit. The team unit is our star. I was never a flashy player. You work your guts out. I wish Hegerberg could be a bit more self-critical when the going gets tough. When Norway struggle, we need our best players to pull us up, not push us further down."
- Solveig Gulbrandsen 183 caps (1998-2015)

 

After Ada-gate, finally some much needed midweek action! Three quarter-finals in the NM Cup have been played tonight:

Trondheims-Ørn vs Vålerenga 1-2
0-1 Gunnhildur Jonsdottir 22
0-2 Anne Lise Olsen 41
1-2 Oda Fugelsnes 72

Arna Bjørnar vs Grand Bodø 5-1
1-0 Emilie Nautnes 12
2-0 Emilie Nautnes 36
3-0 Josee Nahi 58
3-1 Line Danielsen 68 (pen)
4-1 Emilie Nautnes 83
5-1 Emilie Nautnes 90

Stabæk vs LSK Kvinner 1-3 a.e.t.
0-1 Synne Skinnes Hansen 27
1-1 Synne Jensen 49
1-2 Ingrid Moe Wold 115
1-3 Synne Skinnes Hansen 120

The fourth quarter-final, Klepp vs Avaldsnes, will be played on Saturday.

The draw has been made for the semi-finals already:

Vålerenga vs LSK Kvinner
Klepp/Avaldsnes vs Arna Bjørnar

Both semi-finals will be played September 30th.