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June 19, 2013, 06:48:16 AM
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Football / ProLeague pioneer film maker passes away
« on: May 17, 2013, 07:46:37 AM »
Derek "Short Man" Elliott sadly passed away on Wednesday.
For those who didn't know Shortman, he was probably the best known media character around T&T football. He filmed virtually every Pro League video and filmed hundreds of Pro League games.
Everybody in football liked Short Man and he was easy to work with (well, most times!)
He will be sorely missed, both as a torch bearer for local football, and as a friendly face around the Pro League.
RIP Short Man
For those who didn't know Shortman, he was probably the best known media character around T&T football. He filmed virtually every Pro League video and filmed hundreds of Pro League games.
Everybody in football liked Short Man and he was easy to work with (well, most times!)
He will be sorely missed, both as a torch bearer for local football, and as a friendly face around the Pro League.
RIP Short Man
3
Football / Sancho making another movie
« on: May 01, 2013, 04:49:53 PM »
Not sure if this is the right board for this, but mods can move it, if necessary!
A behind the scenes look at the latest Triniwood production by International Performers Guild...A Break For Sue.
Featuring Road March winner, Sanelle Dempster with guest appearances by 4 times Boxing World Champion, Ria Ramnarine and T&T international footballers, Brent Sancho and Kevin Jeffrey.
With an all T&T cast and crew, the film is being made entirely on location in Trinidad.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dBwJ1VJAec&feature=youtu.be
A behind the scenes look at the latest Triniwood production by International Performers Guild...A Break For Sue.
Featuring Road March winner, Sanelle Dempster with guest appearances by 4 times Boxing World Champion, Ria Ramnarine and T&T international footballers, Brent Sancho and Kevin Jeffrey.
With an all T&T cast and crew, the film is being made entirely on location in Trinidad.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dBwJ1VJAec&feature=youtu.be
4
Football / Discussion: Which club would be the World's best if.........
« on: April 17, 2013, 08:06:49 AM »
Which club would be the World's best if a rule was in place saying you can only sign players who came from a 30 mile radius of your home stadium?
I haven't thoroughly researched every team, but it seems to me that Barca, Real, Man U, Man City, Arsenal, Chelsea etc, while able to put out a team, would not be the dominant force that they are now.
Much like a country such as Wales, where extraordinary talent such as Ryan Giggs, and Ian Rush hail from, a club may unearth one or two local jewels, but never enough to win anything.
I mean, originally, Association Football pitted the best from one town against the next. Certain clubs would benefit if they had a nearby army base to draw from (particularly during times of National Service).
In those days, you could get an indication of where the best footballing talent came from.
Nowadays, clubs can sign players from anywhere so we have the situation where England (supposedly) has the strongest collection of clubs yet never win anything internationally. Maybe this year, domestic football will replicate international football with Germany proving that a strong domestic league doesn't necessarily weaken the national team.
I just wondered, because Pro League teams have a very small pool to draw from. Look at the area that Brazilian clubs can draw from or Argentinian clubs or even France and Germany. So when we say Brazil is the best, or Spain is the best, they have a player pool 100 times larger than T&T. Therefore, their domestic teams have advantages over teams from countries like T&T, Jamaica etc.
But if say, Caledonia had the top players born in T&T could they beat Man U or Real Madrid if they fielded only local players?
So when we measure T&T football against other nations, are we using the correct barometer? If we lose 3-0 to Mexico, is that actually bad? Would we still lose 3-0 if Mexico could only select from an area of the country with 1.3 million in it? (like a regional side)
T&T have a huge disadvantage, yet many supporters forget this when we play internationals. Peru is the Worlds 20th largest country and has 30 million people, so shouldn't they have beaten us 20-0?
So, maybe, per capita, T&T are actually better than Brazil???
I haven't thoroughly researched every team, but it seems to me that Barca, Real, Man U, Man City, Arsenal, Chelsea etc, while able to put out a team, would not be the dominant force that they are now.
Much like a country such as Wales, where extraordinary talent such as Ryan Giggs, and Ian Rush hail from, a club may unearth one or two local jewels, but never enough to win anything.
I mean, originally, Association Football pitted the best from one town against the next. Certain clubs would benefit if they had a nearby army base to draw from (particularly during times of National Service).
In those days, you could get an indication of where the best footballing talent came from.
Nowadays, clubs can sign players from anywhere so we have the situation where England (supposedly) has the strongest collection of clubs yet never win anything internationally. Maybe this year, domestic football will replicate international football with Germany proving that a strong domestic league doesn't necessarily weaken the national team.
I just wondered, because Pro League teams have a very small pool to draw from. Look at the area that Brazilian clubs can draw from or Argentinian clubs or even France and Germany. So when we say Brazil is the best, or Spain is the best, they have a player pool 100 times larger than T&T. Therefore, their domestic teams have advantages over teams from countries like T&T, Jamaica etc.
But if say, Caledonia had the top players born in T&T could they beat Man U or Real Madrid if they fielded only local players?
So when we measure T&T football against other nations, are we using the correct barometer? If we lose 3-0 to Mexico, is that actually bad? Would we still lose 3-0 if Mexico could only select from an area of the country with 1.3 million in it? (like a regional side)
T&T have a huge disadvantage, yet many supporters forget this when we play internationals. Peru is the Worlds 20th largest country and has 30 million people, so shouldn't they have beaten us 20-0?
So, maybe, per capita, T&T are actually better than Brazil???
5
Football / Gillingham win promotion to third tier
« on: April 06, 2013, 04:48:51 PM »
Sorry, guys, but this is obviously big news for me!!
With 3 games remaining, Gillingham have amassed enough points to guarantee promotion to League 1 after 3 seasons in the basement.
With 3 games remaining, if they win away to 4th place Cheltenham next Saturday, they could be crowned champions at home to 21st place AFC Wimbledon on Saturday 20th April. Port Vale trail by 8 points with a game in hand.
Martin Allens's side have won 23 out of 43 games and drawn another 13 games, losing only 7 times this season.
Come on you Gills!!!
With 3 games remaining, Gillingham have amassed enough points to guarantee promotion to League 1 after 3 seasons in the basement.
With 3 games remaining, if they win away to 4th place Cheltenham next Saturday, they could be crowned champions at home to 21st place AFC Wimbledon on Saturday 20th April. Port Vale trail by 8 points with a game in hand.
Martin Allens's side have won 23 out of 43 games and drawn another 13 games, losing only 7 times this season.
Come on you Gills!!!
6
Football / Hope Solo signs for Sharks - Loophole allows her to play in Pro League
« on: April 01, 2013, 07:43:30 AM »Hope Solo, the 31 year old female U.S.A. international goalkeeper will make an appearance tomorrow in the TT Pro League clash between Central F.C. and St Anns Rangers.
The renowned keeper had been recruited by Central F.C. Managing Director to help develop a womans football programme for The Sharks.
"We were joking that Hope may threaten Marvin Phillip for the number 1 jersey" said Operations Director, Kevin Harrison. "Out of interest, I checked the Pro League rules and, amazingly, they do not specify that teams cannot have female players! Not really expecting it to happen, we registered Hope with the club as a player, and it was accepted!"
Harrison said there was a flurry of activity when the situation came to light, including calls from FIFA and CONCACAF, but there were no grounds to disallow Solos registration. "We then had a serious meeting to discuss whether Hope should actually play. She was fantastic in training, and T&T first choice keeper, Phillip, said that he thought this would be a great statement for womens football and didn't mind stepping down for one game."
Sharks coach, Terry Fenwick said "I suppose this is a publicity stunt of sorts, but if Hope wasn't a superb keeper, it wouldn't happen. She's fantastic in training and although I would never select her over Marvin, when he offered to step down, I thought: why not?"
Harrison said that Solo would only play one Pro League game and then her number sixty nine jersey would be retired for ever. "Hope and Central F.C. will make history tomorrow. We have had loads of sponsorship inquiries from the States. Although it is really a publicity stunt, this game will fund our womans programme for the next two seasons. We've signed a deal with a feminine hygiene company for US$100,000 and a major cosmetic company want to sponsor a Central F.C. team in the Wolf league."
Central F.C. also signed another well known female footballer, April Furst on a one day contract.
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Football / Non-League Manager wins Aston Martin in bet with Chairman
« on: February 10, 2013, 08:25:02 AM »
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/blogs/world-of-sport/non-league-boss-wins-aston-martin-goal-glut-100140719.html
As Andre would say: Ah love it
As Andre would say: Ah love it
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Football / Central hold trials for U17's, U15's and U13's
« on: February 06, 2013, 06:15:32 AM »http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4D1w5m7A5Q&feature=youtu.be
More trials to take place after carnival, so if you know any talented youths, ask them to check Centralf.C. facebook page.
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Football / Sharks put experience on the bench!!
« on: January 09, 2013, 04:53:41 AM »
Central FC entertain senior citizens
Wednesday, January 9 2013 Newsday
TRINIDAD and Tobago PRO League club Central FC organised a football treat for eight senior citizens and a care-giver from the Couva Home for the Elderly on Saturday.
The California-based club arranged for a bus to collect the residents and carry them to Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva, where Operations Director Kevin Harrison gave the group a mini-stadium tour, before taking up their seats to watch the club take on local rivals W Connection in a TT Pro League encounter.
Some of the spectators in attendance may have been surprised to see the elderly people decked out in Central FC jerseys parade out of the players tunnel and take up positions on the team bench, where they were welcomed by club’s Managing Director Brent Sancho.
“It was great to see these folks enjoy a day out,” said Sancho. “We met them when we donated a Christmas hamper. One of the residents said to us that people only remember the old folk at Christmas, and we realised that we, too, were guilty of doing that, so we decided that we would make a bigger effort to interact with the senior citizens as well as the youngsters from the Couva Childrens Home. I’m only sorry that we couldn’t provide them with a win!”
Central FC lost the game 3-0, but the result did not reflect the match which was hard fought by both teams.
“Although our VIPs were disappointed in the result, they thoroughly enjoyed their matchday experience and vowed to return to see another fixture,” said Harrison. “ We have to give thanks to Toyota who provided the bus and SIS who arranged for drivers. We would also like to thank the wonderful staff at Ato Boldon for their assistance and Julia Baptiste and Dexter Skeene of the TT Pro League for their support.”
Sancho said that the club were planning to bring youngsters from the Couva Childrens Home to their FA Trophy quarterfinal clash with Shiva Boys today.
“We’re a community club,” said Sancho. “And that means we have to work hard to interact with everyone from the very young to our elderly citizens. But we can’t do this on our own and we are grateful to our partners for their assistance.”
Harrison added, “football should be the glue that brings every element of our community together to take pride in their local teams. It’s a great opportunity for businesses, politicians and ordinary folk of every race and creed to unite as one voice and put their home town on the map.
“We’re proud to be Central and we want the citizens of Central to get behind us and promote their region as the best in TT.”
http://www.facebook.com/CentralFCTT?ref=stream
Wednesday, January 9 2013 Newsday
TRINIDAD and Tobago PRO League club Central FC organised a football treat for eight senior citizens and a care-giver from the Couva Home for the Elderly on Saturday.
The California-based club arranged for a bus to collect the residents and carry them to Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva, where Operations Director Kevin Harrison gave the group a mini-stadium tour, before taking up their seats to watch the club take on local rivals W Connection in a TT Pro League encounter.
Some of the spectators in attendance may have been surprised to see the elderly people decked out in Central FC jerseys parade out of the players tunnel and take up positions on the team bench, where they were welcomed by club’s Managing Director Brent Sancho.
“It was great to see these folks enjoy a day out,” said Sancho. “We met them when we donated a Christmas hamper. One of the residents said to us that people only remember the old folk at Christmas, and we realised that we, too, were guilty of doing that, so we decided that we would make a bigger effort to interact with the senior citizens as well as the youngsters from the Couva Childrens Home. I’m only sorry that we couldn’t provide them with a win!”
Central FC lost the game 3-0, but the result did not reflect the match which was hard fought by both teams.
“Although our VIPs were disappointed in the result, they thoroughly enjoyed their matchday experience and vowed to return to see another fixture,” said Harrison. “ We have to give thanks to Toyota who provided the bus and SIS who arranged for drivers. We would also like to thank the wonderful staff at Ato Boldon for their assistance and Julia Baptiste and Dexter Skeene of the TT Pro League for their support.”
Sancho said that the club were planning to bring youngsters from the Couva Childrens Home to their FA Trophy quarterfinal clash with Shiva Boys today.
“We’re a community club,” said Sancho. “And that means we have to work hard to interact with everyone from the very young to our elderly citizens. But we can’t do this on our own and we are grateful to our partners for their assistance.”
Harrison added, “football should be the glue that brings every element of our community together to take pride in their local teams. It’s a great opportunity for businesses, politicians and ordinary folk of every race and creed to unite as one voice and put their home town on the map.
“We’re proud to be Central and we want the citizens of Central to get behind us and promote their region as the best in TT.”
http://www.facebook.com/CentralFCTT?ref=stream
10
Football / Central F.C. xmas hamper distribution
« on: December 23, 2012, 01:44:03 PM »
Aside from giving away plenty of gifts to Caledonia in Friday nights game, the players and staff of Central F.C. have been busy in the Central region distributing Christmas hampers and toys.
Groceries were collected outside JTA supermarket in Couva and donations received from Universal Foods, Holiday Snacks and S.M. Jaleel and were made into hampers. Super Industrial Services also donated toys.
Names of needy people were provided by Mr Ramsingh and Couva Chamber of Commerce.
The Sharks visited Couva Childrens Home and Couva Home for the Elderly and were joined by Stern John, and then distributed hampers in Brickfield and Waterloo.
As usual, apologies for the video quality and editing....someone please buy me a decent camera for xmas!!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=Nrka3QstSM8
If you enjoyed this, please forward it to your friends around the world. While we wish everyone a bountiful Christmas and New Year, while you raise your glass and eat your turkey, share a thought for those less fortunate than yourselves. Bless.
Groceries were collected outside JTA supermarket in Couva and donations received from Universal Foods, Holiday Snacks and S.M. Jaleel and were made into hampers. Super Industrial Services also donated toys.
Names of needy people were provided by Mr Ramsingh and Couva Chamber of Commerce.
The Sharks visited Couva Childrens Home and Couva Home for the Elderly and were joined by Stern John, and then distributed hampers in Brickfield and Waterloo.
As usual, apologies for the video quality and editing....someone please buy me a decent camera for xmas!!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=Nrka3QstSM8
If you enjoyed this, please forward it to your friends around the world. While we wish everyone a bountiful Christmas and New Year, while you raise your glass and eat your turkey, share a thought for those less fortunate than yourselves. Bless.
11
Football / First World Cup football
« on: December 11, 2012, 09:27:34 AM »
Came across this and thought it may be of interests to students of football history!
http://www.soccerballworld.com/1930%20Soccer%20Ball.htm
http://www.soccerballworld.com/1930%20Soccer%20Ball.htm
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Football / Central F.C. support Couva East Secondary school's 50th Anniversary
« on: December 02, 2012, 12:57:01 PM »13
Football / Central F.C. support hiv awareness event
« on: December 01, 2012, 05:46:04 AM »
Central FC supporting HIV project
Newsday Saturday, December 1 2012
TT PRO League outfit Central FC will be supporting the VF Ladies awareness project, “One Pass You Don’t Need To Make” at St Mary’s Community Ground in Freeport today.
The project, which has received the financial support of PEPFAR, via the US Embassy, is designed to provide information to pregnant mothers concerning the prevention of the transmission of HIV from mother to baby.
“These are the kinds of awareness projects that Central FC feel very strongly about supporting,” said the team’s marketing manager, Marcelene Toussaint. “Although this is the first of six nationwide events by VF Ladies, they decided to launch the campaign in the Central region to acknowledge the clubs support.”
Toussaint added, “It’s important for Central FC to involve itself in all areas of the community, and this project gave us the opportunity to help promote women’s football as well as providing advice for pregnant women.”
The event begins at 1.30 pm and VF Ladies will be playing against the St Mary’s United women’s team with the kick off at 3 pm being carried out by former World boxing champion Ria Ramnarine.
VF Ladies captain, Christine Rose said, “We felt that we could use football to promote awareness of sensitive women’s issues. We hope the ladies of the Freeport community come out in force to watch the game and attend our female only coaching session next week. But while they are having fun and enjoying the football, they can also obtain vital information on how to prevent the transference of HIV from mother to baby. While the information may not be of use to them, they may be able to inform other mothers who may be concerned in the future.”
PEPFAR is the United States’ Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief which is the United States of Americas initiative to help combat the global HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Today will be a busy day for Central FC as they are also collecting tinned and packet food outside of JTA supermarket in Couva to make into hampers which will be delivered to needy and deserving people in Central in time for Christmas.
“We’re hoping that the generosity of the community will help to provide some Christmas cheer for those less fortunate than ourselves in the Central region,” said Toussaint.
Newsday Saturday, December 1 2012
TT PRO League outfit Central FC will be supporting the VF Ladies awareness project, “One Pass You Don’t Need To Make” at St Mary’s Community Ground in Freeport today.
The project, which has received the financial support of PEPFAR, via the US Embassy, is designed to provide information to pregnant mothers concerning the prevention of the transmission of HIV from mother to baby.
“These are the kinds of awareness projects that Central FC feel very strongly about supporting,” said the team’s marketing manager, Marcelene Toussaint. “Although this is the first of six nationwide events by VF Ladies, they decided to launch the campaign in the Central region to acknowledge the clubs support.”
Toussaint added, “It’s important for Central FC to involve itself in all areas of the community, and this project gave us the opportunity to help promote women’s football as well as providing advice for pregnant women.”
The event begins at 1.30 pm and VF Ladies will be playing against the St Mary’s United women’s team with the kick off at 3 pm being carried out by former World boxing champion Ria Ramnarine.
VF Ladies captain, Christine Rose said, “We felt that we could use football to promote awareness of sensitive women’s issues. We hope the ladies of the Freeport community come out in force to watch the game and attend our female only coaching session next week. But while they are having fun and enjoying the football, they can also obtain vital information on how to prevent the transference of HIV from mother to baby. While the information may not be of use to them, they may be able to inform other mothers who may be concerned in the future.”
PEPFAR is the United States’ Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief which is the United States of Americas initiative to help combat the global HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Today will be a busy day for Central FC as they are also collecting tinned and packet food outside of JTA supermarket in Couva to make into hampers which will be delivered to needy and deserving people in Central in time for Christmas.
“We’re hoping that the generosity of the community will help to provide some Christmas cheer for those less fortunate than ourselves in the Central region,” said Toussaint.
14
Football / Celtic vs Racing Club - "This was war"
« on: November 13, 2012, 10:11:13 PM »
Interesting film about the World Club Championship and the third game that should never have been played.
The whole Celtic team were fined two months wages after the third game. Despite the comments in the film, I'm not so sure that Celtic weren't as much to blame as the Argentinians.
http://www.celticfc.tv/freeview?vid=1145
The whole Celtic team were fined two months wages after the third game. Despite the comments in the film, I'm not so sure that Celtic weren't as much to blame as the Argentinians.
http://www.celticfc.tv/freeview?vid=1145
15
Football / Elbowed Brazilian smears his blood on face of player
« on: November 10, 2012, 11:01:42 AM »
A Brazilian footballer has been given a two-match suspension for an extraordinary incident in which he smeared his blood on an opponent's face.
Chicao of Brazilian third tier side Santa Cruz was left with blood streaming down his face after being caught with a flying elbow by Fortaleza's Esley just before half-time.
When he realised he was bleeding Chicao completely lost the plot, as our video shows, running after Esley to remonstrate with him in time-honoured fashion by, er, rubbing gore on his cheeks.
Esley was already having a bad time of it - he'd scored an own goal earlier in the game - but the fun was just beginning. He and Chicao got into an argument that turned into a mass brawl, with both Esley and Chicao and their respective team-mates Everton Sena and Ciro Sena (no relation) being sent off.
It was Esley's Fortalez who had the last laugh, though: the game resumed calmly after half-time, with Carca and Asisinho both scoring to give the side a 2-1 win that kept them top of the league.
Not that the Fortalez man got away with it for long: he ended up with a five-match ban for his elbow to Chicao's face that started things off in the first place.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pdvDVGzyEo
Chicao of Brazilian third tier side Santa Cruz was left with blood streaming down his face after being caught with a flying elbow by Fortaleza's Esley just before half-time.
When he realised he was bleeding Chicao completely lost the plot, as our video shows, running after Esley to remonstrate with him in time-honoured fashion by, er, rubbing gore on his cheeks.
Esley was already having a bad time of it - he'd scored an own goal earlier in the game - but the fun was just beginning. He and Chicao got into an argument that turned into a mass brawl, with both Esley and Chicao and their respective team-mates Everton Sena and Ciro Sena (no relation) being sent off.
It was Esley's Fortalez who had the last laugh, though: the game resumed calmly after half-time, with Carca and Asisinho both scoring to give the side a 2-1 win that kept them top of the league.
Not that the Fortalez man got away with it for long: he ended up with a five-match ban for his elbow to Chicao's face that started things off in the first place.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pdvDVGzyEo
16
Football / Rangers stun Central with 3 goal lead
« on: November 03, 2012, 07:05:08 PM »
Rangers stun Central in Couva
Posted Saturday 3 November 2012 by Editor in Volley (wired868)
The St Ann’s Rangers football club held off a late rally from Central FC for its first win of the 2012/13 Digicel Pro League season this evening at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.
The Rangers team led 3-0 at one point before a late Hayden Tinto double provided a scare. But coach Dean Pacheco’s men resisted successfully to move off the foot of the table.
Central, which is coached by Englishman Graham Rix, came into the fixture with a 100 percent record but trailed after just seven minutes following an early Devon Modeste strike. Modeste grabbed his second in the 72nd minute while Jason Marcano chipped in with an item in the 32nd minute.
Each goal was ultimately important as Tinto notched a late double in the 77th and 90th minutes.
Neal & Massy Caledonia AIA plans T&TEC FC tonight in the final Pro League fixture this weekend.
Unfortunately, I was busy during the game and only caught 5 minute glimpses. For a long period, I thought Central were trailing 1-0 as I missed the early goal. It seemed that Central were in control of the game, with many chances saved or squandered, and with Anton Wolfe hitting a great shot against the upright. So, at (what I thought was) 1-0 I had no doubts that Central would soon equalise. Rangers had the occasional break and Marcano made the best of a defensive error to score what I later discovered was the second goal. (Apparently, Modestes opener was also due to poor defending)
2nd half was more of the same. Lots of Central pressure, but no reward. Rangers still looked dangerous on the break and despite several warnings, Modeste was allowed to put Rangers 3-0 up.
The Sharks kept on pushing and eventually the lively Hayden Tinto hit the back of the net and his second of the night launched a last minute onslaught of thr Rangers goal and Central were unlucky not to score an equaliser, but Rangers threw everything at the ball and some brave goalkeeping saw Rangers take their first points of the season.
Disappointed, but not overly concerned, it was pleasing to see a good number of first time supporters from the Central region.
Posted Saturday 3 November 2012 by Editor in Volley (wired868)
The St Ann’s Rangers football club held off a late rally from Central FC for its first win of the 2012/13 Digicel Pro League season this evening at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.
The Rangers team led 3-0 at one point before a late Hayden Tinto double provided a scare. But coach Dean Pacheco’s men resisted successfully to move off the foot of the table.
Central, which is coached by Englishman Graham Rix, came into the fixture with a 100 percent record but trailed after just seven minutes following an early Devon Modeste strike. Modeste grabbed his second in the 72nd minute while Jason Marcano chipped in with an item in the 32nd minute.
Each goal was ultimately important as Tinto notched a late double in the 77th and 90th minutes.
Neal & Massy Caledonia AIA plans T&TEC FC tonight in the final Pro League fixture this weekend.
Unfortunately, I was busy during the game and only caught 5 minute glimpses. For a long period, I thought Central were trailing 1-0 as I missed the early goal. It seemed that Central were in control of the game, with many chances saved or squandered, and with Anton Wolfe hitting a great shot against the upright. So, at (what I thought was) 1-0 I had no doubts that Central would soon equalise. Rangers had the occasional break and Marcano made the best of a defensive error to score what I later discovered was the second goal. (Apparently, Modestes opener was also due to poor defending)
2nd half was more of the same. Lots of Central pressure, but no reward. Rangers still looked dangerous on the break and despite several warnings, Modeste was allowed to put Rangers 3-0 up.
The Sharks kept on pushing and eventually the lively Hayden Tinto hit the back of the net and his second of the night launched a last minute onslaught of thr Rangers goal and Central were unlucky not to score an equaliser, but Rangers threw everything at the ball and some brave goalkeeping saw Rangers take their first points of the season.
Disappointed, but not overly concerned, it was pleasing to see a good number of first time supporters from the Central region.
17
Football / Central F.C. go top in Pro League
« on: October 27, 2012, 05:05:50 PM »
I'm sure there will be a match report to follow, but I couldn't wait!! Central F.C. beat T&TEC 2-1 while North East drew 1-1 with Police. This puts Central on top of the league with a game in hand!! Sorry to crow about this, but I'm kinda happy right now!!
18
Football / TTFF elections
« on: October 06, 2012, 07:18:46 AM »
Attention Mr. Groden, I would greatly appreciate if your good office can provide me with the proposed date of the meeting of Congress at which the TTFF president would be elected. The constitution states that it was supposed to be in September but no later than November 30th. I think it is important that the TTFF conduct the election in a transparent manner with the highest standards of good governance. As identified in the constitution there should be a public announcement (press release at a minimum) twenty one days (21) prior to the Congress.
Mr. General Secretary, football as you are aware, has an 'underwhelming image, and I strongly believe that the start of the rejuvenation and revival of the image and respect for football begins with the execution of a Congress meeting that adheres to the constitution and is perceived by the public to be transparent and follows the standards of good governance and elects a candidate that the football stakeholders consider competent and principled centered.
While the constitution does not call for a pre-congress meeting or a meeting/panel discussion where the football stakeholders can be aware of and even question the nominees about their plans, I am of the view that such an event should be strongly considered and effected.
Also, before the elections are held I would like clarification on the following sections of the constitution:
section 15.3 notice of meetings:
The General Secretary shall give at least 21 days notice in writing to all officers and other members of the informing them of the date, time and venue of such meeting. He/she shall at the same time provide such persons and members with a printed abstract of the minutes of the last congress, the annual report, the audited financial statement and the balance sheet.....
Question(s): does members herein mean associate or just full members?
Section 15.4 Nomination for office:
Nominations for office must be received by the General Secretary fourteen (14) days before the date of the Congress at which officers are to be elected. These must be made known to the Officers and Members affiliated to the federation at least seven (7) days before the date of the Congress at which the officers are to be elected.
Question(s): Once again who are the members as defined here? And, who can nominate? This is confusing and I would like your good office to clear this up.
Section 15.6
All nominations must have a proposer and a seconder
Question(s): Based on section 15.7 only full members are allowed to nominate. Can I presume that this includes and is limited to the six (6) regional associations and the six (6) constituted bodies (referees, primary school, pro league, secondary schools, women's association, and coaches association).
Section 17.2
Indicates that only the six associations and the six properly constituted body can vote.
Question(s): However, I think there is a mistake since section 16.1 d states 5 delegates from each full member; but should this be six. And the wording is quaestionsble since "five (5) delegates from each full member may be interpreted as 5 times 6 = 30. Please clarify.
Section 17.4
Indicates that the presiding chairman appointed by the Executive Committee shall have a vote and a casting vote in the event of a tie at the congress. However, should I presume that this followed clause 17.3 which dealt with persons entitled to vote upon the election of officers.
Question(s):Can the Chairman vote for the President? If the answer is yes can I presume that the number of votes for the President is 13?
I would greatly appreciate a response from your good office and a signed hard copy of this letter would be delivered to your good office on Monday morning.
Regards
Marlon Morris
Member TTFF Technical Committee and Finance and Marketing Committee
Mr. General Secretary, football as you are aware, has an 'underwhelming image, and I strongly believe that the start of the rejuvenation and revival of the image and respect for football begins with the execution of a Congress meeting that adheres to the constitution and is perceived by the public to be transparent and follows the standards of good governance and elects a candidate that the football stakeholders consider competent and principled centered.
While the constitution does not call for a pre-congress meeting or a meeting/panel discussion where the football stakeholders can be aware of and even question the nominees about their plans, I am of the view that such an event should be strongly considered and effected.
Also, before the elections are held I would like clarification on the following sections of the constitution:
section 15.3 notice of meetings:
The General Secretary shall give at least 21 days notice in writing to all officers and other members of the informing them of the date, time and venue of such meeting. He/she shall at the same time provide such persons and members with a printed abstract of the minutes of the last congress, the annual report, the audited financial statement and the balance sheet.....
Question(s): does members herein mean associate or just full members?
Section 15.4 Nomination for office:
Nominations for office must be received by the General Secretary fourteen (14) days before the date of the Congress at which officers are to be elected. These must be made known to the Officers and Members affiliated to the federation at least seven (7) days before the date of the Congress at which the officers are to be elected.
Question(s): Once again who are the members as defined here? And, who can nominate? This is confusing and I would like your good office to clear this up.
Section 15.6
All nominations must have a proposer and a seconder
Question(s): Based on section 15.7 only full members are allowed to nominate. Can I presume that this includes and is limited to the six (6) regional associations and the six (6) constituted bodies (referees, primary school, pro league, secondary schools, women's association, and coaches association).
Section 17.2
Indicates that only the six associations and the six properly constituted body can vote.
Question(s): However, I think there is a mistake since section 16.1 d states 5 delegates from each full member; but should this be six. And the wording is quaestionsble since "five (5) delegates from each full member may be interpreted as 5 times 6 = 30. Please clarify.
Section 17.4
Indicates that the presiding chairman appointed by the Executive Committee shall have a vote and a casting vote in the event of a tie at the congress. However, should I presume that this followed clause 17.3 which dealt with persons entitled to vote upon the election of officers.
Question(s):Can the Chairman vote for the President? If the answer is yes can I presume that the number of votes for the President is 13?
I would greatly appreciate a response from your good office and a signed hard copy of this letter would be delivered to your good office on Monday morning.
Regards
Marlon Morris
Member TTFF Technical Committee and Finance and Marketing Committee
19
Football / 2012 First Citizens Cup
« on: September 19, 2012, 03:38:54 PM »
FRIDAY 21st September
Manny Ramjohn Stadium
6pm W.Connection vs Police
8pm Defence Force vs Central F.C.
Hasely Crawford Stadium
6pm North East Stars vs St Anns Rangers
8pm T&TEC vs Caledonia AIA
Manny Ramjohn Stadium
6pm W.Connection vs Police
8pm Defence Force vs Central F.C.
Hasely Crawford Stadium
6pm North East Stars vs St Anns Rangers
8pm T&TEC vs Caledonia AIA
20
General Discussion / Section 34 Thread
« on: September 12, 2012, 08:29:28 AM »
Just heard the press release from Roger Gaspard. It lays out all of the key dates in the process that brought into law the Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) Act 2011.
It is either very coincidental or an extreme lack of professionalism on the part of the government that this act became law when it did. The act received assent awaiting proclomation on 16th December 2011 and the Attorney General ruled againt appealing the refusal of extradition of those involved in Piarco 1 & 2 on 19th December 2011.
Now, surely if you are the A.G., you would be intimately aware of all consequences of such an act, particularly Section 34? Therefore, if you intend to rule on a case 3 days later, it is clear that the implications of that ruling in relation to section 34 would be known.
To add to the concern over Section 34, the Prime Minister, being herself a lawyer, and a silk at that, would be expected to be fully aware of the connotations of Section 34 and the implications regarding the decision not to appeal the Piarco decision.
Worse still, the DPP only became aware that this act came into law by reading about it in the papers! He was under the belief that the only way the act was to be approved was if certain provisions were added. That too was the belief of the opposition, who's support was required to get the bill passed into law.
So, the nations safeguards, the opposition and the DPP, were bypassed in order to enact this law.
Whether or not there were outside influences in this matter, while being a concern, the first issue is how can the government pass into law a bill that has not followed the correct process?
No one else can be blamed other than the Prime Minister. The only way she can save herself is to deflect attention onto the A.G. and his decision not to appeal the extradition decision. Even then, the fact remains that this government did not follow due process and circumvented the checks and balances put in place to protect the citizens from unjust laws.
It is either very coincidental or an extreme lack of professionalism on the part of the government that this act became law when it did. The act received assent awaiting proclomation on 16th December 2011 and the Attorney General ruled againt appealing the refusal of extradition of those involved in Piarco 1 & 2 on 19th December 2011.
Now, surely if you are the A.G., you would be intimately aware of all consequences of such an act, particularly Section 34? Therefore, if you intend to rule on a case 3 days later, it is clear that the implications of that ruling in relation to section 34 would be known.
To add to the concern over Section 34, the Prime Minister, being herself a lawyer, and a silk at that, would be expected to be fully aware of the connotations of Section 34 and the implications regarding the decision not to appeal the Piarco decision.
Worse still, the DPP only became aware that this act came into law by reading about it in the papers! He was under the belief that the only way the act was to be approved was if certain provisions were added. That too was the belief of the opposition, who's support was required to get the bill passed into law.
So, the nations safeguards, the opposition and the DPP, were bypassed in order to enact this law.
Whether or not there were outside influences in this matter, while being a concern, the first issue is how can the government pass into law a bill that has not followed the correct process?
No one else can be blamed other than the Prime Minister. The only way she can save herself is to deflect attention onto the A.G. and his decision not to appeal the extradition decision. Even then, the fact remains that this government did not follow due process and circumvented the checks and balances put in place to protect the citizens from unjust laws.
21
Other Sports / The London 2012 Paranoia Olympics
« on: August 27, 2012, 09:29:07 PM »Posted Sunday 26 August 2012 by Filbert Street in View Point
The venue for the 2012 Paranoia Olympics, the Olympic Park which overlooks the London boroughs of Stratford and Hackney, caused much concern for the competitors. The Russians, for instance, who ritually top the medal table, seemed to be particularly worried about the number of CCTV cameras in the area.
The USA delegation, mostly comprising Secret Service, FBI and CIA personnel, are no slouches where paranoia is concerned and could be seen diving under the nearest table every time a plane took off from Heathrow.
Read more ..... http://www.wired868.com/2012/08/26/the-london-2012-paranoia-olympics/
22
General Discussion / Liburd suspended??
« on: August 24, 2012, 11:09:24 PM »
Just tried to log on to Wired 868 and theres just a page saying "ACCOUNT SUSPENDED". This seems very strange to me as I only spoke to Lasana today and things seemed to be going really well for him. I can only guess at one of two things. Either the webmaster pulled the site or the Govt did. I don't want to be a conspiracy theorist, but Wired 868 has been pretty critical of the government.
I really hope the site is up tomorrow. Not just because it's a good site, but also because if it has been pulled by the government, we're in a serious constitutional mess. Freedom of speech isn't an option, it's a right.
I really hope the site is up tomorrow. Not just because it's a good site, but also because if it has been pulled by the government, we're in a serious constitutional mess. Freedom of speech isn't an option, it's a right.
23
Football / VF Ladies FC receives US support in fight against Aids
« on: July 10, 2012, 11:36:27 PM »United States Ambassador to T&T Beatrice Welters presented a grant for US$8,000 to the VF Ladies Football Club on July 6, as part of the (US) President’s Plan for Aids Relief (Pepfar) initiative. The Maracas, St Joseph-based club is initiating a project called, “One Pass You Don’t Need to Make”. The club will host celebrity football matches and workshops as a platform to share information and raise awareness of the possibility of transference of HIV/Aids from the infected mother to a newborn child. They also plan to share information on the benefits of preventative drugs for infected mothers and alternatives to breastfeeding newborns.
The Pepfar is the US government’s leading initiative to help those suffering from HIV and Aids around the world. This historic commitment is the largest by any nation to combat a single disease internationally, and PEPFAR investments also help alleviate suffering from other diseases across the global health spectrum. Pepfar is driven by a shared responsibility among donor and partner nations and others to make smart investments to save lives. Pepfar is the cornerstone and largest component of the US President’s Global Health Initiative. With a special focus on improving the health of women, newborns and children, the Global Health Initiative’s goal is to save the greatest number of lives by increasing and building upon what works and, then, supporting countries as they work to improve the health of their own people.
http://www.guardian.co.tt/sport/2012-07-09/vf-ladies-fc-receives-us-support-fight-against-aids
24
Football / San Juan Jabloteh withdraw from Pro League
« on: July 02, 2012, 07:44:46 PM »
Heard on the news that Jabloteh won't be competing this year due to lack of finances.
Sad day for T&T football.
Sad day for T&T football.
25
Football / Platini: Euro 2020 all over Europe
« on: June 30, 2012, 08:06:18 AM »
By Reuters
The 2020 European Championship could be spread across 12 or 13 cities around Europe, rather than being staged in just one or two countries, UEFA president Michel Platini said on Saturday.
"The Euros in 2020 could be held all over Europe," Platini told a news conference.
"You could have one country with 12 host cities, or we could have it in 12 or 13 cities all over Europe. It is just an idea, but in these days of cheap air travel anything is possible.
"The majority of the executive committee thinks it's a good idea and says we should really have a good think about this.
"We are going to have a meeting with all of our national federations coming up to December and in Decemeber or January we're are going to make a decision."
Turkey had been favourite to host the event in eight years' time but their bid has been complicated by Istanbul's campaign to also host the Olympic Games in the same year.
Platini said the idea for a multi-country Euros came to him "a while ago" and had been met with interest from his excecutive.
"It's an idea I feel really passionate about, it will be a lot easier from a financial perspective for all the countries.
"If you need to build airports or 10 stadiums in a country, this would be rather easy because it would be one stadium per host city. That's all we can say at the moment.
"We have not decided anything yet, but by January we will decide if we are going to have the Euros in one country or all over Europe."
UEFA originally set a deadline of mid-May for hosts to express an interest, but although they said two or three countries other than Turkey had done so, they did not name them publicly.
One reason for UEFA not making them public is because clearly they were not satisfied the interested countries could stage the event, hence Platini's idea for a multi-country tournament.
Platini said during the UEFA Congress in Istanbul recently that he would support a Turkey bid, but has now retreated somewhat from that stance, saying on Saturday: "We are not going to wait until we know whether Turkey are going to get the Olympics.
"It creates a problem for us. We do have other candidates.
"Everyone has the possibility to host it."
When asked how fans would be expected to attend the matches if they wanted to travel around Europe, he replied that in this day of cheap air travel, movement around Europe was not as prohibitive as it once was.
"And it is easier to go from London to Paris or Berlin than Cardiff to Gdansk," the Frenchman said.
"It would be four games per venue. It is a great debate."
Platini's plan is not without merit. It means that matches could be staged in a number of cities around the continent, in a way, bringing the Euros to the fans, rather than the other way round.
The singlular, or co-hosting identity of the tournament might be lost, but fans in some unlikely places could see matches in their home cities.
The next Euros, in France in 2016, will comprise 24 teams, but Platini said it was unlikely the Euros would expand to 32 teams as it may reduce in quality.
"And anyway the World Cup is 32 teams, its enough. When we go to 24 teams the quality will not suffer. We have plenty of good teams in Europe who could qualify, and there will be more matches in the stadiums, but 32 is too many," he said.
The current tournament, the last to comprise 16 teams and staged in Poland and Ukraine, ends with the final between Spain and Italy in Kiev on Sunday.
The 2020 European Championship could be spread across 12 or 13 cities around Europe, rather than being staged in just one or two countries, UEFA president Michel Platini said on Saturday.
"The Euros in 2020 could be held all over Europe," Platini told a news conference.
"You could have one country with 12 host cities, or we could have it in 12 or 13 cities all over Europe. It is just an idea, but in these days of cheap air travel anything is possible.
"The majority of the executive committee thinks it's a good idea and says we should really have a good think about this.
"We are going to have a meeting with all of our national federations coming up to December and in Decemeber or January we're are going to make a decision."
Turkey had been favourite to host the event in eight years' time but their bid has been complicated by Istanbul's campaign to also host the Olympic Games in the same year.
Platini said the idea for a multi-country Euros came to him "a while ago" and had been met with interest from his excecutive.
"It's an idea I feel really passionate about, it will be a lot easier from a financial perspective for all the countries.
"If you need to build airports or 10 stadiums in a country, this would be rather easy because it would be one stadium per host city. That's all we can say at the moment.
"We have not decided anything yet, but by January we will decide if we are going to have the Euros in one country or all over Europe."
UEFA originally set a deadline of mid-May for hosts to express an interest, but although they said two or three countries other than Turkey had done so, they did not name them publicly.
One reason for UEFA not making them public is because clearly they were not satisfied the interested countries could stage the event, hence Platini's idea for a multi-country tournament.
Platini said during the UEFA Congress in Istanbul recently that he would support a Turkey bid, but has now retreated somewhat from that stance, saying on Saturday: "We are not going to wait until we know whether Turkey are going to get the Olympics.
"It creates a problem for us. We do have other candidates.
"Everyone has the possibility to host it."
When asked how fans would be expected to attend the matches if they wanted to travel around Europe, he replied that in this day of cheap air travel, movement around Europe was not as prohibitive as it once was.
"And it is easier to go from London to Paris or Berlin than Cardiff to Gdansk," the Frenchman said.
"It would be four games per venue. It is a great debate."
Platini's plan is not without merit. It means that matches could be staged in a number of cities around the continent, in a way, bringing the Euros to the fans, rather than the other way round.
The singlular, or co-hosting identity of the tournament might be lost, but fans in some unlikely places could see matches in their home cities.
The next Euros, in France in 2016, will comprise 24 teams, but Platini said it was unlikely the Euros would expand to 32 teams as it may reduce in quality.
"And anyway the World Cup is 32 teams, its enough. When we go to 24 teams the quality will not suffer. We have plenty of good teams in Europe who could qualify, and there will be more matches in the stadiums, but 32 is too many," he said.
The current tournament, the last to comprise 16 teams and staged in Poland and Ukraine, ends with the final between Spain and Italy in Kiev on Sunday.
26
Football / England officially worlds worst penalty takers!
« on: June 26, 2012, 05:25:05 PM »
England's exit to Italy on penalties at the European Championships was sadly predictable, but is there anyone worse in the world at shoot-outs?
There are some countries that have never won a penalty shoot-out, but if you limit the list to teams that have competed in at least three shoot-outs at major international tournaments then England do indeed have the worst record of the lot.
England have competed in seven penalty shoot-outs, winning just once, their quarter-final triumph against Spain in Euro '96 — a tournament they still exited on penalties against Germany in the very next round.
Four countries — Costa Rica, Gabon, UAE and Romania — have lost two from two in major championships, but of those involved in at least three England's 14% win record is the worst of the bunch.
The Netherlands come next having lost four of their five penalty shoot-outs while Italy's 38% record is still poor despite having beaten the English on Monday.
The three teams involved in the most penalty shoot-outs are Argentina (6-4), Brazil (6-4) and Mexico (4-6) with 10 each, while Germany (5-1) have a predictably impressive record.
The best shoot-out team have actually been Saudi Arabia, who have won all four of the major shoot-outs — although all of them came in the Asia Cup. The Czech Republic also have a perfect record but have only competed in three.
Ranking of teams' penalty shoot-out records in major championships (World Cup finals, Continental championship finals and Confederations Cup only) - three shoot-out minimum.....
http://mit.zenfs.com/991/2012/06/Shootoutrecords2606.jpg
There are some countries that have never won a penalty shoot-out, but if you limit the list to teams that have competed in at least three shoot-outs at major international tournaments then England do indeed have the worst record of the lot.
England have competed in seven penalty shoot-outs, winning just once, their quarter-final triumph against Spain in Euro '96 — a tournament they still exited on penalties against Germany in the very next round.
Four countries — Costa Rica, Gabon, UAE and Romania — have lost two from two in major championships, but of those involved in at least three England's 14% win record is the worst of the bunch.
The Netherlands come next having lost four of their five penalty shoot-outs while Italy's 38% record is still poor despite having beaten the English on Monday.
The three teams involved in the most penalty shoot-outs are Argentina (6-4), Brazil (6-4) and Mexico (4-6) with 10 each, while Germany (5-1) have a predictably impressive record.
The best shoot-out team have actually been Saudi Arabia, who have won all four of the major shoot-outs — although all of them came in the Asia Cup. The Czech Republic also have a perfect record but have only competed in three.
Ranking of teams' penalty shoot-out records in major championships (World Cup finals, Continental championship finals and Confederations Cup only) - three shoot-out minimum.....
http://mit.zenfs.com/991/2012/06/Shootoutrecords2606.jpg
28
General Discussion / It takes just one man to spark change in society
« on: June 12, 2012, 06:53:02 AM »
Everyone keeps bemoaning the government, but no one takes action to show the politicians how you really feel. Yes, there have been a few burning tyre protests, but the citizens really need to unite if they want
to bring change. Ghandi, MLK, Rosa Parks, Nelson Mandela. Where is the Trini version?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qq8zFLIftGk&feature=related
to bring change. Ghandi, MLK, Rosa Parks, Nelson Mandela. Where is the Trini version?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qq8zFLIftGk&feature=related
29
Football / West Indian sets new world record vs England
« on: June 11, 2012, 06:38:47 AM »
Mods: you will want to move this to the cricket page, but as everyone here recently has been depressed by T&T football, I thought they may get a lift from a superb West Indian performance!
Tino Best stunned England by smashing the world record for the highest ever Test score by a number 11 on the fourth morning of the third Test at Edgbaston.
Yet the West Indies bowler was left kicking himself after falling five runs short of his century, ending on 95 as he misjudged a slower ball from Graham Onions and scooped the ball high into the air for England skipper Andrew Strauss to catch.
Nonetheless, his record innings had propelled his team to a total of 426, and improved his Test batting average from a humble 9.80 to 13.85 in a single knock.
The previous record score by a number 11 in Test cricket across 135 years and 2045 matches had been 75, set by India's Zaheer Khan against Bangladesh in 2004.
The amazing innings saw Best become the first number 11 batsman to make a half-century against England for more than 100 years, with the home side having no answer to Best's much-improved batting as West Indies rattled on from 280 for eight to 355 for nine in one hour.
Best was back in Test cricket with a point to prove after a three-year absence, and did so in style as he hammered England morale with what was his maiden 50 in a damaging last-wicket partnership of 143 alongside Denesh Ramdin (107no).
Best's carefree approach brought him and his team 14 fours and a six in his 112-ball innings, and he dominated the partnership with Ramdin.
Best drove especially well against Steven Finn and Onions. But his defence was sound too, and two back-foot forces for four off Graeme Swann required impressive footwork and were especially memorable.
England's prospects of pushing for an unlikely victory had receded from slim to barely alive, and it seemed the West Indies were the only team who could feasibly still win this rain-ravaged dead rubber.
When Finn made short work of Ravi Rampaul, caught-behind in the first over of the morning from only the second ball he faced, it seemed England would surely wrap up the West Indies innings quickly.
But Best had other ideas - and England came close to the final wicket only once, when Kevin Pietersen failed to hang on to a difficult chance at gully after Ramdin climbed into a short ball from Finn on 69.
Tino Best stunned England by smashing the world record for the highest ever Test score by a number 11 on the fourth morning of the third Test at Edgbaston.
Yet the West Indies bowler was left kicking himself after falling five runs short of his century, ending on 95 as he misjudged a slower ball from Graham Onions and scooped the ball high into the air for England skipper Andrew Strauss to catch.
Nonetheless, his record innings had propelled his team to a total of 426, and improved his Test batting average from a humble 9.80 to 13.85 in a single knock.
The previous record score by a number 11 in Test cricket across 135 years and 2045 matches had been 75, set by India's Zaheer Khan against Bangladesh in 2004.
The amazing innings saw Best become the first number 11 batsman to make a half-century against England for more than 100 years, with the home side having no answer to Best's much-improved batting as West Indies rattled on from 280 for eight to 355 for nine in one hour.
Best was back in Test cricket with a point to prove after a three-year absence, and did so in style as he hammered England morale with what was his maiden 50 in a damaging last-wicket partnership of 143 alongside Denesh Ramdin (107no).
Best's carefree approach brought him and his team 14 fours and a six in his 112-ball innings, and he dominated the partnership with Ramdin.
Best drove especially well against Steven Finn and Onions. But his defence was sound too, and two back-foot forces for four off Graeme Swann required impressive footwork and were especially memorable.
England's prospects of pushing for an unlikely victory had receded from slim to barely alive, and it seemed the West Indies were the only team who could feasibly still win this rain-ravaged dead rubber.
When Finn made short work of Ravi Rampaul, caught-behind in the first over of the morning from only the second ball he faced, it seemed England would surely wrap up the West Indies innings quickly.
But Best had other ideas - and England came close to the final wicket only once, when Kevin Pietersen failed to hang on to a difficult chance at gully after Ramdin climbed into a short ball from Finn on 69.
30
Football / Two pioneering black players' opposite views on Platini's comments
« on: June 10, 2012, 09:25:04 AM »
Two opposite views on Platini's comments from players, both contempories of Platini, who opened the way for black footballers in the 80's and who's suffering of terrace racism embarrassed football into speaking out against racism.
RUUD GULLIT
Ruud Gullit has hit out at UEFA's ruling that players at Euro 2012 who leave the pitch in response to racist abuse will be yellow-carded.
Italy's Mario Balotelli said he would walk off the pitch if he heard racist abuse coming from the stands but UEFA president Michel Platini warned it is up to the referee to take the teams off, and that players who took matters into their own hands would be punished.
Former Holland midfield star Gullit backed the power given to match officials but insists players who are targeted must have the opportunity to make a personal stand.
He told the Daily Mail: "The monkey sounds that greeted the Holland team at their training session this week were an embarrassment to the Polish authorities.
"The problem of racial abuse of footballers is now on everyone's radar and it has to be dealt with.
"UEFA have given referees the power to stop a game and I am behind that. The problem needs to be tackled straight away, so players shouldn't just keep quiet and play on like in my day."
Gullit added: "It has been suggested by the UEFA president Michel Platini that players would be booked for leaving the field as an act of retaliation and defiance. That, in my opinion, is the wrong message.
"If a player is racially insulted, he should have the right to leave the field."
"I would like to think we can trust referees to take everyone off but, if the officials are not supporting the players correctly, then the individual should act. The message this would send out: 'we will not tolerate this abuse'."
Gullit feels awareness of racism has improved since his playing days, when he admits he felt unable to openly confront the issue.
"When I played, I received racial abuse but I was just one of a few black players and we weren't backed up by the authorities," he said.
"I used to ignore the abuse and felt powerless to change attitudes. My only weapon was my performances on the pitch.
"We are beyond that now though. We just have to hope that racism doesn't haunt this tournament but that, if it does, the response is strong. The players need the support of UEFA and the football authorities need the support of the police."
JOHN BARNES
John Barnes backs Uefa president Michel Platini's stance over booking players who walk off the pitch during Euro 2012 in protest at racist abuse.
The ex-England winger insists racism is not an issue players should deal with.
Barnes was speaking after Holland players were racially abused during a training session on Wednesday.
"I 100 per cent back [Platini]. A player cannot arbitrarily decide he is receiving racial abuse and walk off," Barnes told BBC Sport.
Continue reading the main story
“You cannot arbitrarily as a player decide that because what you perceive racist abuse has come your way you are going to walk off”
Barnes suffered racist abuse throughout his career, the worst of which saw bananas being thrown on to the field during matches for Watford and Liverpool.
But the 48-year-old former Liverpool player said he would never walk off a field if he were playing at Euro 2012.
"It wouldn't be a problem to me because I am there to play football," Barnes added. "If it is a problem then the authorities have to deal with it, players shouldn't deal with it."
Barnes insists that the officials and the authorities should be left to tackle the issue. "We have to get on with the football and let the authorities do whatever they, in terms of legislation, in terms of sanctions, in terms of what they are going to do," he added.
"We can't take it upon ourselves, we still have the laws of the game. What Michel Platini said is that the referee has the power to stop the game if he believes there has been racist abuse and therefore that the players need to go by the referee's decision.
"You cannot arbitrarily as a player decide that because what you perceive racist abuse has come your way you are going to walk off.
"If then you say that every individual player can arbitrarily decide whether they are getting racist abuse or not then you could have five players walking off in every game because of what they have decided. Which is ridiculous."
The issue first came to light when Mario Balotelli suggested he would walk off the pitch if he was targeted in Poland and Ukraine.
"I hope there will not be a problem with racism at the Euros," the Manchester City forward said in an interview with France Football. "Because if it does happen I would leave the pitch straightaway and go home."
RUUD GULLIT
Ruud Gullit has hit out at UEFA's ruling that players at Euro 2012 who leave the pitch in response to racist abuse will be yellow-carded.
Italy's Mario Balotelli said he would walk off the pitch if he heard racist abuse coming from the stands but UEFA president Michel Platini warned it is up to the referee to take the teams off, and that players who took matters into their own hands would be punished.
Former Holland midfield star Gullit backed the power given to match officials but insists players who are targeted must have the opportunity to make a personal stand.
He told the Daily Mail: "The monkey sounds that greeted the Holland team at their training session this week were an embarrassment to the Polish authorities.
"The problem of racial abuse of footballers is now on everyone's radar and it has to be dealt with.
"UEFA have given referees the power to stop a game and I am behind that. The problem needs to be tackled straight away, so players shouldn't just keep quiet and play on like in my day."
Gullit added: "It has been suggested by the UEFA president Michel Platini that players would be booked for leaving the field as an act of retaliation and defiance. That, in my opinion, is the wrong message.
"If a player is racially insulted, he should have the right to leave the field."
"I would like to think we can trust referees to take everyone off but, if the officials are not supporting the players correctly, then the individual should act. The message this would send out: 'we will not tolerate this abuse'."
Gullit feels awareness of racism has improved since his playing days, when he admits he felt unable to openly confront the issue.
"When I played, I received racial abuse but I was just one of a few black players and we weren't backed up by the authorities," he said.
"I used to ignore the abuse and felt powerless to change attitudes. My only weapon was my performances on the pitch.
"We are beyond that now though. We just have to hope that racism doesn't haunt this tournament but that, if it does, the response is strong. The players need the support of UEFA and the football authorities need the support of the police."
JOHN BARNES
John Barnes backs Uefa president Michel Platini's stance over booking players who walk off the pitch during Euro 2012 in protest at racist abuse.
The ex-England winger insists racism is not an issue players should deal with.
Barnes was speaking after Holland players were racially abused during a training session on Wednesday.
"I 100 per cent back [Platini]. A player cannot arbitrarily decide he is receiving racial abuse and walk off," Barnes told BBC Sport.
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“You cannot arbitrarily as a player decide that because what you perceive racist abuse has come your way you are going to walk off”
Barnes suffered racist abuse throughout his career, the worst of which saw bananas being thrown on to the field during matches for Watford and Liverpool.
But the 48-year-old former Liverpool player said he would never walk off a field if he were playing at Euro 2012.
"It wouldn't be a problem to me because I am there to play football," Barnes added. "If it is a problem then the authorities have to deal with it, players shouldn't deal with it."
Barnes insists that the officials and the authorities should be left to tackle the issue. "We have to get on with the football and let the authorities do whatever they, in terms of legislation, in terms of sanctions, in terms of what they are going to do," he added.
"We can't take it upon ourselves, we still have the laws of the game. What Michel Platini said is that the referee has the power to stop the game if he believes there has been racist abuse and therefore that the players need to go by the referee's decision.
"You cannot arbitrarily as a player decide that because what you perceive racist abuse has come your way you are going to walk off.
"If then you say that every individual player can arbitrarily decide whether they are getting racist abuse or not then you could have five players walking off in every game because of what they have decided. Which is ridiculous."
The issue first came to light when Mario Balotelli suggested he would walk off the pitch if he was targeted in Poland and Ukraine.
"I hope there will not be a problem with racism at the Euros," the Manchester City forward said in an interview with France Football. "Because if it does happen I would leave the pitch straightaway and go home."