[ SPL News ] It’s Getting Exciting at the Top!

Amigos and Amigas,

We had a full four-game SPL program last Sunday at Jinqiao—and even had ICS TV visit us to cover the action! It’s great to see the SPL recognized as a mature and exciting amateur league.

Next season marks our 10th anniversary, and yes—we’re planning a proper celebration! 🎉

As for this season, the title race is wide open, with the Hawks, Hard Days Night, and Lions all in strong positions. Don’t count out ERS either—they’re the team in form and could spring a surprise.

⚽ Match Results – April 8, 2012

🇯🇵 Japan 3–0 Flamenkos

A surprising result! After a 0-0 first half, Japan grew stronger and finally broke the deadlock. Flamenkos pushed hard but were repeatedly denied by Japan’s keeper—and the linesman. Japan’s counterattacking football paid off, and they walked away with all three points.

🦁 Lions 3–0 Hawks

A top-of-the-table clash. The Lions needed a win to stay in the title race, and they delivered with authority. They controlled midfield early and bagged two goals in the first half. The Hawks came out stronger after the break, but Joel’s header made it 3-0, sealing the deal and keeping the pressure on the league leaders.

🎸 Hard Days Night 6–2 Galacticos

Despite pre-match concerns about missing players, the Galacticos showed up with at least 18 in yellow—a good sign for the final stretch. Hard Days Night manager Steve was less happy, citing too many “hangovers,” but their performance on the pitch did the talking. The win brings them within one point of the Hawks at the top.

🐂 Pistolera Bulls 3–0 Super 48

Super 48 is becoming more serious—they were seen practicing set pieces before the match! But the Bulls badly needed a win, especially under pressure to deliver results. They not only secured the win but also a clean sheet, lifting some of the heat off Bilgin.

🎯 SPL Top Scorers (As of April 11)

• Nils (Pistolera Bulls): 16 goals

• Joel (Lions): 13 goals

• Peter & Fedja (Hard Days Night): 13 goals

🗓️ This Sunday’s Matches (April 15)

• 10:00–12:00: Flamenkos vs. Galacticos

• 12:00–14:00: Lions vs. Hawks

• 14:00–16:00: ERS vs. Cowboys

Forget the Formula 1 in Shanghai—nothing beats chasing a football with your mates on a sunny Sunday!

See you all at the pitch!

Cheers,
Freek – SPL President on behalf of the SPL Committee