ICT in Europe

[Sneckboy]

Astra are actually quite 'fortunate' to be in European competition this season. They were warned in December (along with Cluj) that they would be banned from the next UEFA competition they qualified for, if they didn't settle unpaid monies by January 2015. Astra obviously managed to do this.

Nevertheless, by finishing 4th in Romania, they should have started in Q1 but were elevated to Q2 as Cluj failed to comply and have been banned this year.

Article (in English) http://www.thenational.ae/sport/uefa-europe/uefa-slaps-bursaspor-ekranas-cfr-cluj-and-astra-giurgiu-with-bans-and-fines-for-unpaid-bills

[Sneckboy]

Astra have already played a couple of pre-season games. They drew 2-2 away at Lokomotiva Zagreg, (4th placed in Croatia), who themselves are 'warming up' for the Europa League.

Then Astra crossed the border into Slovenia to play current champs and Champions League regulars, NK Maribor (although Maribor didn't use their official pitch).
Maribor 0-3 Astra !!!
The opening goal was stunning - I've seen goals scored from corners before, where the 'keeper, in a crowd of bodies,  has lost an inswinging corner - but this was driven in!
It's just after 1 minute in the 3 mins of highlights. Astra in the red.
Really hope Ryan Esson's aware of this 'party piece'!